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Striving #1
Striving for Normal
Normal. It was a relative term, or so I thought.
After a relationship from hell that almost killed me, I didn’t want another man in my life. A job, a home, and great friends were all I needed.
Simple.
Uncomplicated.
Until two men interrupted the calm I was pretending to be.
One could take me to the future—a future I never dared to dream I could have. A man who gave me a chance to smile and fix the mistakes I’d made. But, I shouldn’t get a second chance at a happily ever after.
The other would take me back to the past—a past I didn’t want but was all I knew. After losing the most important thing in my life, I didn’t deserve more than that.
Faced with choices I didn’t see coming, I knew I had to make a decision. Be thrust forward into a new life, or be held prisoner of bad choices from my old one. I was terrified of both.
Ages 18+ due to adult situations and violence.
After a relationship from hell that almost killed me, I didn’t want another man in my life. A job, a home, and great friends were all I needed.
Simple.
Uncomplicated.
Until two men interrupted the calm I was pretending to be.
One could take me to the future—a future I never dared to dream I could have. A man who gave me a chance to smile and fix the mistakes I’d made. But, I shouldn’t get a second chance at a happily ever after.
The other would take me back to the past—a past I didn’t want but was all I knew. After losing the most important thing in my life, I didn’t deserve more than that.
Faced with choices I didn’t see coming, I knew I had to make a decision. Be thrust forward into a new life, or be held prisoner of bad choices from my old one. I was terrified of both.
Ages 18+ due to adult situations and violence.
Unknown Binding
First published August 23, 2013
7 people are currently reading
396 people want to read
About the author
B.L. Mooney
15 books99 followersB.L. Mooney started writing when the voices and storylines in her head ran out of room. They were getting too cramped and neither B.L. nor the characters could take it anymore, so she did the only thing she could do—she made room. She always knew she wanted to write, but vowed to make time for it later. Now that she’s made time for writing, most everything else falls to the wayside. That seems to suit the characters that keep popping up just fine.
B.L. lives in the Midwest and her other talents include in-demand cookies, a very dry sense of humor, and stealth eavesdropping. Some mannerisms, attitudes, or twists come from random sentences picked up while passing by strangers. So speak up the next time you have something to gossip about. You never know, it may just end up on the pages of the next book you read.
B.L. lives in the Midwest and her other talents include in-demand cookies, a very dry sense of humor, and stealth eavesdropping. Some mannerisms, attitudes, or twists come from random sentences picked up while passing by strangers. So speak up the next time you have something to gossip about. You never know, it may just end up on the pages of the next book you read.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 44 reviews
August 16, 2016
Four years ago, Drew escaped an unhealthy relationship. With the help of her therapist, Joseph, and her best friends, Terri and Mark, with whom she has been living, she is striving for normal. Drew's abusive relationship with ex-boyfriend, Craig, is revealed through therapy sessions and flashbacks. Her friends believe she should be moving on and encourage her to see Dennis. Dennis is an all-around nice guy. Reliable, funny, safe.
But when Drew meets Carl, who is a widower with a daughter Drew is taking care of in the childcare center where she works, Drew has conflicting feelings as to whether normal and safe is right for her. Carl is self-assured, manipulative and controlling. In many ways very similar to her ex-boyfriend, Craig.
And what will happen when Craig comes back into their lives?
This was a very compelling story with a brilliant mix of romance, suspense, family drama, lots of emotions and some nice twists. B.L. Mooney's writing really draws you in and the characters are very well developed, including all the secondary characters.
I had a bit of a love/hate relationship going on with Drew. She is obviously a very vulnerable young woman with a traumatic past and I really wanted her to succeed. But, she made some pretty stupid decisions along the way. Some of the events relating to the childcare setting I found difficult to believe.
The audiobook narration by Meghan Kelly was convincing and enjoyable.
4 stars for the story and for the narration.
I received a complimentary copy of the audiobook in exchange for an unbiased review.
But when Drew meets Carl, who is a widower with a daughter Drew is taking care of in the childcare center where she works, Drew has conflicting feelings as to whether normal and safe is right for her. Carl is self-assured, manipulative and controlling. In many ways very similar to her ex-boyfriend, Craig.
And what will happen when Craig comes back into their lives?
This was a very compelling story with a brilliant mix of romance, suspense, family drama, lots of emotions and some nice twists. B.L. Mooney's writing really draws you in and the characters are very well developed, including all the secondary characters.
I had a bit of a love/hate relationship going on with Drew. She is obviously a very vulnerable young woman with a traumatic past and I really wanted her to succeed. But, she made some pretty stupid decisions along the way. Some of the events relating to the childcare setting I found difficult to believe.
The audiobook narration by Meghan Kelly was convincing and enjoyable.
4 stars for the story and for the narration.
I received a complimentary copy of the audiobook in exchange for an unbiased review.
September 8, 2013
I loved Striving For Normal! This book sucked me right in, and I didn't want to put it down until I was finished!
Lets start with Drew Clayborn- oh my! Drew I felt for immediately. Drew carries around a lot of guilt. She is trying to come to terms with things that she did in her past that she's not proud of. Through her therapy sessions we learn more, and more what those things are. Drew broke my heart! I just wanted to hug her! She felt she didn't deserve to be loved or be happy ever again. Coming from a horrible relationship Drew doesn't trust anyone.
Carl Williamson- Mr.Hot rich man who has everything a girl could want. Drew is drawn to him. We soon find out Carl is fighting a loss of his own. He is a lot like her ex and that scared me.
Dennis Brooks- He is super sweet, he seems like the obvious choice, but Drew still is uncertain. She can talk to Dennis, and he makes her smile. I was shouting for her to pick Dennis the entire time!
As we get deeper into the story we see Drew struggling to choose! She still feels she isn't worthy to love again. We also get flashbacks as to where all a lot of her pain is coming from.
Just when I thought I had it figured out the ex comes back into the picture! I don't want to give too much away so I'll let you see who she ends up with. I had tears one minute, and was yelling at my kindle the next! You will go through a roller coaster of emotions!
I give Striving for Normal 5 stars! I loved it! It kept me up wanting to read it so fast to see what would happen next. Just when you think you have it all figured out B.L. Mooney gives you more! Loved the characters! What a beautiful story about putting yourself back together after so much pain. Loved it!
Lets start with Drew Clayborn- oh my! Drew I felt for immediately. Drew carries around a lot of guilt. She is trying to come to terms with things that she did in her past that she's not proud of. Through her therapy sessions we learn more, and more what those things are. Drew broke my heart! I just wanted to hug her! She felt she didn't deserve to be loved or be happy ever again. Coming from a horrible relationship Drew doesn't trust anyone.
Carl Williamson- Mr.Hot rich man who has everything a girl could want. Drew is drawn to him. We soon find out Carl is fighting a loss of his own. He is a lot like her ex and that scared me.
Dennis Brooks- He is super sweet, he seems like the obvious choice, but Drew still is uncertain. She can talk to Dennis, and he makes her smile. I was shouting for her to pick Dennis the entire time!
As we get deeper into the story we see Drew struggling to choose! She still feels she isn't worthy to love again. We also get flashbacks as to where all a lot of her pain is coming from.
Just when I thought I had it figured out the ex comes back into the picture! I don't want to give too much away so I'll let you see who she ends up with. I had tears one minute, and was yelling at my kindle the next! You will go through a roller coaster of emotions!
I give Striving for Normal 5 stars! I loved it! It kept me up wanting to read it so fast to see what would happen next. Just when you think you have it all figured out B.L. Mooney gives you more! Loved the characters! What a beautiful story about putting yourself back together after so much pain. Loved it!
September 9, 2013
I reviewed this book at MustReadBooksOrDie with my friend Shelley.
Shel: As I was reading this I kept thinking that many women would've been so judgmental and scornful of Drew; they'd just have a hard time believing anyone could get caught up in something like she did. Unfortunately, many women do get manipulated and feel trapped, just like she did and some aren't lucky enough to have friends like she does to help survive it.
Court: Uh, are you forgetting about Deb in this book? Gah...I have lots of not nice things to say about her, but she definitely drives your point home. She was this way to Drew and that was right in front of her brother Dennis, whom Drew is dating. I think all of that is true, but the alternative of trying to run away from someone like Craig with help or not and the constant fear that he will find you wouldn't have been easier...
Court: Are you freaked out yet...? Yeah. I was too. But IT WAS SOOOOO GOOOD!
Shel: Drew is recovering from an especially horrific ex-boyfriend and as she begins to make a new life for herself two men begin to fight for her attention. Good problem to have, right? Not for Drew. She's feeling overwhelmed and confused and uncertain about how to go forward and if either of these men are who should she go forward with.
Court: I don't necessarily understand her hangups in the "which guy do I pick" parts because, well I've been with my one guy for a very long time...but underneath that where the issues are really with herself is what made me wish that it was easier for her to get to the place she needed to be to love herself and give love to others. That stuff is heartbreaking, and her flashbacks are sometimes hard to take...be ready.
Shel: As the novel progresses we watch Drew find success in a great job, begin to accept that she 'deserves' goodness and love, learns how to see manipulators for what they are, and navigate a "normal" relationship. She also sees that she must decide if passion and normalcy can co-exist in a relationship and if either of these men have the capacity to offer both.
Court: This is a love triangle with an obvious favorite, and I wanted her to realize she loved him as much as we did. I loved the moments with Joseph, her therapist, and how he would help her figure things out on her own with the right tiny push in the right direction. That pissed her off, of course, but he and Terrie and Mark helped her immensely. The best friends in this book are my heroes. I have to say that I loved this book because it made me so angry...at multiple characters...in a good way. I felt so many different emotions that I am still processing!
Shel: With the help of a therapist, her best friends, her co-workers, her new men and her ex, Drew begins to find a path for herself that is steady, healthy, and 'normal'. Court: Normal is so overrated right? Yeah, Drew has a very tumultuous life, and I loved how real it was. It isn't always sunshine and rainbows in this one, but it was a very great story for me!
Shelley: 3 Stars
Courtney: 5 Stars
Shel: As I was reading this I kept thinking that many women would've been so judgmental and scornful of Drew; they'd just have a hard time believing anyone could get caught up in something like she did. Unfortunately, many women do get manipulated and feel trapped, just like she did and some aren't lucky enough to have friends like she does to help survive it.
Court: Uh, are you forgetting about Deb in this book? Gah...I have lots of not nice things to say about her, but she definitely drives your point home. She was this way to Drew and that was right in front of her brother Dennis, whom Drew is dating. I think all of that is true, but the alternative of trying to run away from someone like Craig with help or not and the constant fear that he will find you wouldn't have been easier...
Court: Are you freaked out yet...? Yeah. I was too. But IT WAS SOOOOO GOOOD!
Shel: Drew is recovering from an especially horrific ex-boyfriend and as she begins to make a new life for herself two men begin to fight for her attention. Good problem to have, right? Not for Drew. She's feeling overwhelmed and confused and uncertain about how to go forward and if either of these men are who should she go forward with.
Court: I don't necessarily understand her hangups in the "which guy do I pick" parts because, well I've been with my one guy for a very long time...but underneath that where the issues are really with herself is what made me wish that it was easier for her to get to the place she needed to be to love herself and give love to others. That stuff is heartbreaking, and her flashbacks are sometimes hard to take...be ready.
Shel: As the novel progresses we watch Drew find success in a great job, begin to accept that she 'deserves' goodness and love, learns how to see manipulators for what they are, and navigate a "normal" relationship. She also sees that she must decide if passion and normalcy can co-exist in a relationship and if either of these men have the capacity to offer both.
Court: This is a love triangle with an obvious favorite, and I wanted her to realize she loved him as much as we did. I loved the moments with Joseph, her therapist, and how he would help her figure things out on her own with the right tiny push in the right direction. That pissed her off, of course, but he and Terrie and Mark helped her immensely. The best friends in this book are my heroes. I have to say that I loved this book because it made me so angry...at multiple characters...in a good way. I felt so many different emotions that I am still processing!
Shel: With the help of a therapist, her best friends, her co-workers, her new men and her ex, Drew begins to find a path for herself that is steady, healthy, and 'normal'. Court: Normal is so overrated right? Yeah, Drew has a very tumultuous life, and I loved how real it was. It isn't always sunshine and rainbows in this one, but it was a very great story for me!
Shelley: 3 Stars
Courtney: 5 Stars
August 25, 2013
REVIEW TIME!STRIVING FOR NORMAL
by BL Mooney
Review by Wendy
Shhh, Mommy's in the Bathroom.,.Reading
5 Stars
Drew Clayborn has done things she can't forgive herself for. She's spent the last four years with Joseph, her very calm, understanding, and compassionate therapist. She doesn't feel she deserves to be happy after the tragic events and choices she has made.
Her best friends Terri and Mark have taken Drew under their wings and think its time for her to move forward. And they know the prefect guy for her. Problem is Drew doesn't think she will or even deserves to move on.
Carl Williamson is rich, handsome, and a powerful Alpha male. Carl gets what he wants, who he wants, when he wants it. Carl does things to Drew, physically and mentally. He sets her on fire, but is this a temptation too great for her?
Dennis Brooks is the all around nice guy. He's strong and handsome and makes Drew laugh and smile. He's the safe option.
Drew is torn between two men, one she has an intense reaction to and one that she thinks isn't strong enough to handle the demons she hides. Or option number 3, just stay alone.
Until her past comes back to haunt her, she's just Striving for Normal...
I was first introduced to BL Mooney with Coming Home. I really like this book, so I was happy to review her next undertaking.
Can I say, "WOW!" She really outdid herself with this one. I was sucked in from the beginning. You really want to know what Drew did that was so horrible. Well, Drew definitely has some demons to overcome. My emotions really ran the gambit on this one, I laughed, I cried, I got very turned on, mad, angry, pissed, and even had to step away. I fell in love with these characters, and some I down right loathed. The characters are well developed and the story flowed. The story alternates between what's going on in the present and what happened in the past. I don't want to say too much for fear that I will give things away, but this is a must read roller-coaster of emotions. This is a definite READ ME in my book.
I cant wait to see what BL Mooney has in store for us next!
Favorite Quotes:
“What do you want, Drew? I need you to tell me.”
“You, please, I need you.” I squirmed, trying to get where I needed to be.
He placed his forehead against mine and whispered, “I need to be part of you, Drew. Tell me what you need.”
I felt him press against my entrance. I started to move down, but he held my hips still. I groaned. “I need you..."
------------
“If I can’t love me, how can I expect him to?”
------------
“I think that you do want to see and that you’re striving for normal and don’t know how to accomplish that.”
------------
Links to BL Mooney:
https://www.facebook.com/AuthorBLMooney
Striving For Normal
http://www.amazon.com/Striving-Normal...
Coming Home (Stand alone)
http://www.amazon.com/Coming-Home-ebo...
by BL Mooney
Review by Wendy
Shhh, Mommy's in the Bathroom.,.Reading
5 Stars
Drew Clayborn has done things she can't forgive herself for. She's spent the last four years with Joseph, her very calm, understanding, and compassionate therapist. She doesn't feel she deserves to be happy after the tragic events and choices she has made.
Her best friends Terri and Mark have taken Drew under their wings and think its time for her to move forward. And they know the prefect guy for her. Problem is Drew doesn't think she will or even deserves to move on.
Carl Williamson is rich, handsome, and a powerful Alpha male. Carl gets what he wants, who he wants, when he wants it. Carl does things to Drew, physically and mentally. He sets her on fire, but is this a temptation too great for her?
Dennis Brooks is the all around nice guy. He's strong and handsome and makes Drew laugh and smile. He's the safe option.
Drew is torn between two men, one she has an intense reaction to and one that she thinks isn't strong enough to handle the demons she hides. Or option number 3, just stay alone.
Until her past comes back to haunt her, she's just Striving for Normal...
I was first introduced to BL Mooney with Coming Home. I really like this book, so I was happy to review her next undertaking.
Can I say, "WOW!" She really outdid herself with this one. I was sucked in from the beginning. You really want to know what Drew did that was so horrible. Well, Drew definitely has some demons to overcome. My emotions really ran the gambit on this one, I laughed, I cried, I got very turned on, mad, angry, pissed, and even had to step away. I fell in love with these characters, and some I down right loathed. The characters are well developed and the story flowed. The story alternates between what's going on in the present and what happened in the past. I don't want to say too much for fear that I will give things away, but this is a must read roller-coaster of emotions. This is a definite READ ME in my book.
I cant wait to see what BL Mooney has in store for us next!
Favorite Quotes:
“What do you want, Drew? I need you to tell me.”
“You, please, I need you.” I squirmed, trying to get where I needed to be.
He placed his forehead against mine and whispered, “I need to be part of you, Drew. Tell me what you need.”
I felt him press against my entrance. I started to move down, but he held my hips still. I groaned. “I need you..."
------------
“If I can’t love me, how can I expect him to?”
------------
“I think that you do want to see and that you’re striving for normal and don’t know how to accomplish that.”
------------
Links to BL Mooney:
https://www.facebook.com/AuthorBLMooney
Striving For Normal
http://www.amazon.com/Striving-Normal...
Coming Home (Stand alone)
http://www.amazon.com/Coming-Home-ebo...
September 11, 2013
I wanted to love this one. I really tried, but it just wasn't meant to be for me.
I don't usually like love triangles, I am the first to admit that, but when they are done correctly and there is an 'easy choice' for the heroine, I am prepared to go along for the ride. The reason I found this one so hard to get in to and enjoy is because both of the heroes, Drew's 'choices', were not likeable in the slightest.
Drew is struggling to come to terms with her past. After surviving through a horrific relationship, she is finally trying to get her life back on track. In a small amount of time she is starting a new job, moving in to a place of her own and dating two guys. First off she meets Dennis, having been set up by her best friend, she really isn't interested in Dennis and I can't say I blame her. All the while I was reading I couldn't picture him as a possibility for Drew, I felt like he was weak and would never understand Drew's issues.
And then we meet Carl. Carl's a father grieving the loss of his wife and raising his 4 year old daughter by himself. They meet at the daycare centre that Drew is now working at and there is an instant connection. I loved Carl. He was the type of man Drew was used to - controlling, strong and powerful, and everything she knew she had to stay away from. In my opinion, the author wrote the book in such a way that I felt, as the reader, the obvious choice for Drew, was Carl. Yes, he brought back unwanted feelings and flashbacks, but I felt like the times they spent together he would have been good for her in helping her get through her rough spots.
Drew fought and fought her feelings towards Carl and tried to focus 100% of her attention on Dennis. She frustrated me so damn much. She went back and forth, debated with herself time and time again, and refused to listen to any advice anybody was giving her.
Some situations also had me rolling my eyes, they were a little unbelievable. I'm just being picky here, but as I mentioned Drew works in a day care. I am thinking top security in this day care, kids are there after all. Only this wasn't the case, day in day out there was Drew's family coming in to say hello, Dennis's family, Carl was constantly in and out. I hated that, in a real day care these people would not be allowed to walk in and out.
As for the actual writing, I can't complain. The author did keep me engaged and the main reason I carried on reading until the end was because I was invested enough to have to know who Drew 'chooses'. My issues with not liking this book was down to the actual plot and story line, if the author was to write a new book tomorrow I would certainly consider reading it.
*Reviewing for The Hopeless Romantics Book Blog as part of the 'Striving for Normal' blog tour.*
I don't usually like love triangles, I am the first to admit that, but when they are done correctly and there is an 'easy choice' for the heroine, I am prepared to go along for the ride. The reason I found this one so hard to get in to and enjoy is because both of the heroes, Drew's 'choices', were not likeable in the slightest.
Drew is struggling to come to terms with her past. After surviving through a horrific relationship, she is finally trying to get her life back on track. In a small amount of time she is starting a new job, moving in to a place of her own and dating two guys. First off she meets Dennis, having been set up by her best friend, she really isn't interested in Dennis and I can't say I blame her. All the while I was reading I couldn't picture him as a possibility for Drew, I felt like he was weak and would never understand Drew's issues.
And then we meet Carl. Carl's a father grieving the loss of his wife and raising his 4 year old daughter by himself. They meet at the daycare centre that Drew is now working at and there is an instant connection. I loved Carl. He was the type of man Drew was used to - controlling, strong and powerful, and everything she knew she had to stay away from. In my opinion, the author wrote the book in such a way that I felt, as the reader, the obvious choice for Drew, was Carl. Yes, he brought back unwanted feelings and flashbacks, but I felt like the times they spent together he would have been good for her in helping her get through her rough spots.
Drew fought and fought her feelings towards Carl and tried to focus 100% of her attention on Dennis. She frustrated me so damn much. She went back and forth, debated with herself time and time again, and refused to listen to any advice anybody was giving her.
Some situations also had me rolling my eyes, they were a little unbelievable. I'm just being picky here, but as I mentioned Drew works in a day care. I am thinking top security in this day care, kids are there after all. Only this wasn't the case, day in day out there was Drew's family coming in to say hello, Dennis's family, Carl was constantly in and out. I hated that, in a real day care these people would not be allowed to walk in and out.
As for the actual writing, I can't complain. The author did keep me engaged and the main reason I carried on reading until the end was because I was invested enough to have to know who Drew 'chooses'. My issues with not liking this book was down to the actual plot and story line, if the author was to write a new book tomorrow I would certainly consider reading it.
*Reviewing for The Hopeless Romantics Book Blog as part of the 'Striving for Normal' blog tour.*
August 23, 2013
Let me start off by saying, this book was not what I expected. Don’t get me wrong, I had good expectations, but Ms. Mooney met and surpassed them! I went into the story thinking it was going to be a romantic love triangle with a villain thrown in the mix. While there is some truth to that, the story provided so much more. When we first meet our protagonist, Drew, she is in a session with her therapist Joseph. While her diagnosis is never stated, it is clear that Drew is being treated for Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder. Over time and through a series of memories (or flashbacks), the reason(s) for Drew’s pain are revealed to us. And let me tell you, there were some scenes that caused my jaw to drop. (Those of you that know me know this is no easy task!) The story takes this broken person from being a victim of her circumstances to being a survivor of them. The book isn’t really about Drew being torn between two men, it’s about her learning to love and forgive herself enough to feel worthy of love. How can she love any man the way he deserves if she doesn’t love herself? With the help of Joseph and her I’m-going-to-tell-you-like-it-is-and-I’m-not-going-to-sugarcoat-it best friend, Drew attempts to work through her insecurities and find her self-worth. It’s no easy journey as Drew fights herself (and sometimes everyone trying to help her) every step of the way. There is a lot of ugly in this story, but Ms. Mooney added just the right amount of altruistic beauty to level it off.
Striving for Normal is a story of victimization and survival, fear and courage, self-hate and self-forgiveness. There are jaw-dropping moments and several twists that will keep you on your toes. I recommend it to anyone looking for an atypical romance with depth and surprise.
Striving for Normal is a story of victimization and survival, fear and courage, self-hate and self-forgiveness. There are jaw-dropping moments and several twists that will keep you on your toes. I recommend it to anyone looking for an atypical romance with depth and surprise.
September 12, 2013
Drew is broken. Her ex really did a number on her. She is weak and depends entirely too much on her friends and therapist. I usually dislike weak characters, but Drew has endured such tragedy she couldn’t be anything but.
A good portion of this book is spent with Drew in Joseph’s office. Joseph is her therapist. He is the only therapist that has been able to help her and get her to open up. It was really interesting to follow their doctor-patient relationship. He helps her stop her self-destructing thought process, when she tries to convince herself she doesn’t deserve unconditional love or happiness. It was refreshing reading about a character who has had a sucky situation, actually seek out therapy. I get tired of the books where falling in love just somehow melts all their problems away.
With her friends encouraging her to get back on the dating scene, she agrees to meet Dennis. He is the quintessential good guy. He seems too good to be true, but he’s the real deal. Drew doesn’t know how to handle it. Then she meets Carl, who she can’t help but be attracted to. He has controlling tendencies like her ex, and she finds herself giving in because it’s a habit she can’t seem to shake. It doesn’t help that refuses to take no for an answer.
Drew’s journey to put her self back together was painful to read at times, but worth it. I was happy she finally got her happily ever after. Will the nice guy finish last? Will her psychotic ex finally get what he deserves? You better read to find out!
XOXO-Mallory
A good portion of this book is spent with Drew in Joseph’s office. Joseph is her therapist. He is the only therapist that has been able to help her and get her to open up. It was really interesting to follow their doctor-patient relationship. He helps her stop her self-destructing thought process, when she tries to convince herself she doesn’t deserve unconditional love or happiness. It was refreshing reading about a character who has had a sucky situation, actually seek out therapy. I get tired of the books where falling in love just somehow melts all their problems away.
With her friends encouraging her to get back on the dating scene, she agrees to meet Dennis. He is the quintessential good guy. He seems too good to be true, but he’s the real deal. Drew doesn’t know how to handle it. Then she meets Carl, who she can’t help but be attracted to. He has controlling tendencies like her ex, and she finds herself giving in because it’s a habit she can’t seem to shake. It doesn’t help that refuses to take no for an answer.
Drew’s journey to put her self back together was painful to read at times, but worth it. I was happy she finally got her happily ever after. Will the nice guy finish last? Will her psychotic ex finally get what he deserves? You better read to find out!
XOXO-Mallory
August 14, 2013
I had the pleasure of being a Beta for SFN. I truly enjoyed watching it all come together! I have so much love for Brandy!
This book is wonderful.....
This is a story of how Drew learns to take control of her life again. After years of bing in a bad, controlling realtionship, she breaks free. It's a long and painful road to recovery but she has an amazing support of her friends, therapist, and a couple new love interests! Carl is a little too much like her ex and she is very attracted to him and Dennis is the complete opposite but she still has her doubts about him as well. As they both compete for her love,the unthinkable happens....her ex returns.
Who will win her heart?
This book is wonderful.....
This is a story of how Drew learns to take control of her life again. After years of bing in a bad, controlling realtionship, she breaks free. It's a long and painful road to recovery but she has an amazing support of her friends, therapist, and a couple new love interests! Carl is a little too much like her ex and she is very attracted to him and Dennis is the complete opposite but she still has her doubts about him as well. As they both compete for her love,the unthinkable happens....her ex returns.
Who will win her heart?
September 6, 2013
This was a very quick read and a good love story for young adults! The grass is not always greener on the other side
September 12, 2013
Review of striving for normal by B.L. Mooney
3.75 stars
Drew is a broken woman. She is trying hard to pick up the pieces that an incredibly sick relationship left her in. She has a great therapist and great friends to help her along her way. Will two new men in her life prove too much for her already damaged soul?
Drew was in a relationship with a very sick man. He hurt her, used her, abused her and left her a shell of the woman she once was. She has spent the last four years in therapy trying not only to pick up the pieces but also to try and understand why she allowed herself to be treated the way she was. She is making progress but still has a hard time looking back to the past…….voluntarily at least.
Terri and her husband Mark have taken Drew in. She lives with them and helps them by watching their kids as well. Terri and Mark are good friends and have all the best intentions when they push Drew to start dating again and introduce her to Dennis.
Dennis is a great guy, patient, sexy, sweet, and fun. He is all the things that most women are looking for. Drew likes him and enjoys the time they spend together, but will his soft nature be too little for a woman who obviously enjoyed a man in control in the past?
“I know what Carl wants from me, and I know how to give him that. I don’t know where things are going with Dennis. I’m not sure what he wants from me.” I don’t want to be as vulnerable as I was with Craig ever again, but the unknown with Dennis is terrifying to me.” Joseph smiled. “Everyone is terrified of that unknown. I’ve never met him, but Dennis sounds good for you, if not for the long term, then just to start out with for a normal and healthy relationship.” I shocked Joseph again by my honest admission of the root of my fears. “But am I good for him?”’
Carl is a manipulative jerk. He can be sleazy but he is also powerful and sexy. Drew has to be around him because his daughter attends her day care. Will she be able to keep boundaries between them or will past habits of letting the wrong guy rule her win out in the end?
“I started to walk back to the door and turned to give him one more piece of advice. “Just so you know, Carl, most of those single mothers at the park and mommy-and-me classes are looking to get laid, too. Men don’t own the market on casual sex.” Before I made it to the door to let him out, Carl had turned me back around and held me by my wrists. “Someone needs to teach you how to be a lady.”
I enjoyed being on this journey of self-discovery with Drew. I liked being able to see the growth and I thought that the therapy scenes were very well written. I thought she lacked just a little something though. It bothered me that she seemed a little naïve still as to how dangerous and evil her ex was. I thought that she should have learned a little bit of a bigger lesson there.
I loved the supporting characters and was happy to see such good people being written. I loved the aspect of children in the book, it made the story seem more real to me. I also loved that even though Drew made some bad choices and didn’t always do the right thing. She knew it, accepted it and moved on from it. I feel like having such an example in books gives women permission to be themselves despite past mistakes.
Overall this was a good read. It kept me interested, sometimes anxious or sad or even made me feel rebellious and defiant. I really enjoyed B.L. Mooney’s writing and will be reading another book from this author sooner than later.
An ARC was kindly provided by the author for an honest review.
Review can also be seen soon at Love Between the Sheets book blog www.readlovelust.com
3.75 stars
Drew is a broken woman. She is trying hard to pick up the pieces that an incredibly sick relationship left her in. She has a great therapist and great friends to help her along her way. Will two new men in her life prove too much for her already damaged soul?
Drew was in a relationship with a very sick man. He hurt her, used her, abused her and left her a shell of the woman she once was. She has spent the last four years in therapy trying not only to pick up the pieces but also to try and understand why she allowed herself to be treated the way she was. She is making progress but still has a hard time looking back to the past…….voluntarily at least.
Terri and her husband Mark have taken Drew in. She lives with them and helps them by watching their kids as well. Terri and Mark are good friends and have all the best intentions when they push Drew to start dating again and introduce her to Dennis.
Dennis is a great guy, patient, sexy, sweet, and fun. He is all the things that most women are looking for. Drew likes him and enjoys the time they spend together, but will his soft nature be too little for a woman who obviously enjoyed a man in control in the past?
“I know what Carl wants from me, and I know how to give him that. I don’t know where things are going with Dennis. I’m not sure what he wants from me.” I don’t want to be as vulnerable as I was with Craig ever again, but the unknown with Dennis is terrifying to me.” Joseph smiled. “Everyone is terrified of that unknown. I’ve never met him, but Dennis sounds good for you, if not for the long term, then just to start out with for a normal and healthy relationship.” I shocked Joseph again by my honest admission of the root of my fears. “But am I good for him?”’
Carl is a manipulative jerk. He can be sleazy but he is also powerful and sexy. Drew has to be around him because his daughter attends her day care. Will she be able to keep boundaries between them or will past habits of letting the wrong guy rule her win out in the end?
“I started to walk back to the door and turned to give him one more piece of advice. “Just so you know, Carl, most of those single mothers at the park and mommy-and-me classes are looking to get laid, too. Men don’t own the market on casual sex.” Before I made it to the door to let him out, Carl had turned me back around and held me by my wrists. “Someone needs to teach you how to be a lady.”
I enjoyed being on this journey of self-discovery with Drew. I liked being able to see the growth and I thought that the therapy scenes were very well written. I thought she lacked just a little something though. It bothered me that she seemed a little naïve still as to how dangerous and evil her ex was. I thought that she should have learned a little bit of a bigger lesson there.
I loved the supporting characters and was happy to see such good people being written. I loved the aspect of children in the book, it made the story seem more real to me. I also loved that even though Drew made some bad choices and didn’t always do the right thing. She knew it, accepted it and moved on from it. I feel like having such an example in books gives women permission to be themselves despite past mistakes.
Overall this was a good read. It kept me interested, sometimes anxious or sad or even made me feel rebellious and defiant. I really enjoyed B.L. Mooney’s writing and will be reading another book from this author sooner than later.
An ARC was kindly provided by the author for an honest review.
Review can also be seen soon at Love Between the Sheets book blog www.readlovelust.com
September 13, 2013
Wow what can i say i just finish reading this book and i love it? This story had me in an emotional roller-coaster, it had me thinking one thing at one time and then made me change my mind in other time, and i love the twist that it has.
I love the characters, even though their some of them that i couldn’t stand at the beginning. But half way through the book i end up loving them,
The story start with Drew Clayborn speaking to Joseph Hatcher, his being her therapist for the last four years. Drew is broken woman she has being through hell, and when i say hell she was in a relationship with a very sick man, he hurt her abused her and left her a shell of a woman she once was. she was going to therapist to tried to pick up the pieces of what was left of her and put her past behind her and look for new goal to change the way she just to be. And start a new life.
Drew had being through so much that she has nightmares and get flashbacks and don’t sleep to well. But she has some amazing friends that are there for her no matter what and they are always protecting her, and making sure that she doing well.
While i was more into the book i got to see how Drew started to stand up for herself, and speak her mind. And how she took control of her life. And love how she got to move on even though she was taking it day by day. I love how she become at the end of this amazing book.
The character of Terri what can i say, Terri is the best friend but let me just tell you that half way through their book she was getting at my nerves. i know that your best friends always wants to know what’s going on and how you doing, but in this case Terri was just being noisy and pushy, but half way through the book i end up seeing that she really does care for Drew and wants her to be really happy, that’s when i started to love Terri.
Love the character of Mark Terri husband, Mark is also Drew best friend but let’s just say that he acts like the big brother. Mark is such a sweet heart and a great father and he takes his role of a brother really series always protecting Drew and taking care of her i just love his attitude.
The character of Dennis, now Dennis is a good friend of Mark and Terri and he also work with Mark. At first i was not likening him, i think he was just to calm and agree to everything, but while i kept reading more of him i felt in love with him. Dennis is smart, funny, sexy, and a sweetheart.
the character of Curls what can i say about Carl, at first i was loving his attitude but then i just felt like taking him out of the book and slap him on the side of his head. He acted just like almost the same way that Drew ex-boyfriend used to act.
This is one emotional book that will capture your mind, body, and soul. I love this book from the first page to the last page i couldn’t put it down and i did not wanted to finish it. I love how this book turned out to be at the end.
I just wanted to say thank you to B.L. Mooney from giving me this special book as a gift and for introducing me to this amazing characters. Can’t wait to read more of your books. And i hope that once you read this book that you fall in love with it and enjoy it as much as i did.
I love the characters, even though their some of them that i couldn’t stand at the beginning. But half way through the book i end up loving them,
The story start with Drew Clayborn speaking to Joseph Hatcher, his being her therapist for the last four years. Drew is broken woman she has being through hell, and when i say hell she was in a relationship with a very sick man, he hurt her abused her and left her a shell of a woman she once was. she was going to therapist to tried to pick up the pieces of what was left of her and put her past behind her and look for new goal to change the way she just to be. And start a new life.
Drew had being through so much that she has nightmares and get flashbacks and don’t sleep to well. But she has some amazing friends that are there for her no matter what and they are always protecting her, and making sure that she doing well.
While i was more into the book i got to see how Drew started to stand up for herself, and speak her mind. And how she took control of her life. And love how she got to move on even though she was taking it day by day. I love how she become at the end of this amazing book.
The character of Terri what can i say, Terri is the best friend but let me just tell you that half way through their book she was getting at my nerves. i know that your best friends always wants to know what’s going on and how you doing, but in this case Terri was just being noisy and pushy, but half way through the book i end up seeing that she really does care for Drew and wants her to be really happy, that’s when i started to love Terri.
Love the character of Mark Terri husband, Mark is also Drew best friend but let’s just say that he acts like the big brother. Mark is such a sweet heart and a great father and he takes his role of a brother really series always protecting Drew and taking care of her i just love his attitude.
The character of Dennis, now Dennis is a good friend of Mark and Terri and he also work with Mark. At first i was not likening him, i think he was just to calm and agree to everything, but while i kept reading more of him i felt in love with him. Dennis is smart, funny, sexy, and a sweetheart.
the character of Curls what can i say about Carl, at first i was loving his attitude but then i just felt like taking him out of the book and slap him on the side of his head. He acted just like almost the same way that Drew ex-boyfriend used to act.
This is one emotional book that will capture your mind, body, and soul. I love this book from the first page to the last page i couldn’t put it down and i did not wanted to finish it. I love how this book turned out to be at the end.
I just wanted to say thank you to B.L. Mooney from giving me this special book as a gift and for introducing me to this amazing characters. Can’t wait to read more of your books. And i hope that once you read this book that you fall in love with it and enjoy it as much as i did.
August 3, 2016
*ARC received in exchange for an honest review*
First, a disclaimer: domestic violence (both physical and emotional), the loss of a child, and a love triangle are all major elements of this story. If you have trouble with these types of themes, I would suggest passing on this one.
Drew is a survivor of abuse that is undergoing therapy. She is making great progress--her abuser is in jail, she has graduated with a degree, she has a great job that she loves and she’s almost ready to get back in the dating game. Will old habits die-hard for Drew? Is she doomed to repeat her greatest mistake in picking a mate? Or can she move on, and see that things aren’t always what they seem?
Carl is a fairly recent widower. He is a successful businessman who loves control and is not often told “no”. His four-year-old daughter, Amy, is enrolled at the center where Drew works. Soon, Drew becomes the object of Carl’s…affection?
Dennis is a nice guy, with a great job. He is a friend and co-worker of one of Drew’s friends Mark (the husband of Drew’s best friend, Terri). He is a great catch and would be perfect for Drew, however she is used to a certain “type” of guy…can she allow herself to be happiness she deserves?
Normally I wouldn’t go into this much depth with just the characters, especially the inclusion of secondary characters, however Ms. Mooney has spent a lot of time in their development, and it shows. We see incredibly complex relationships that seem to mesh flawlessly. As a reader, I want to know more about the history these characters have together, as well as the future they have ahead of them.
The abuse, while disturbing, is not gratuitous, and unless you have a history, it should not be a problem, as it is central to the plot of the book. Ms. Mooney has artfully interwoven flashbacks with present day scenarios and we understand why Drew has made the choices she has, as well as why she has the problems making the decisions she does.
More importantly, I think, is the positive light the author shows on counseling and Drew’s emotional recovery. All too often we see mental health written off, but in this case, we see Drew evolve with the help of her doctor, Joseph. She works through her emotions and draws strength from her past, setting her on course for a healthy future.
Striving For Normal is a five star read. It is well written, and I wouldn’t necessarily say it is an easy read, but that is more due to the subject matter, rather than the writing itself. Ms. Mooney has crafted characters with depth that have not only drawn the reader into this title, but will make for an easy segue into the next book in the series, Striving For Perfection, comes out next year. Striving For Normal, while part of a series, could easily be read as a standalone.
First, a disclaimer: domestic violence (both physical and emotional), the loss of a child, and a love triangle are all major elements of this story. If you have trouble with these types of themes, I would suggest passing on this one.
Drew is a survivor of abuse that is undergoing therapy. She is making great progress--her abuser is in jail, she has graduated with a degree, she has a great job that she loves and she’s almost ready to get back in the dating game. Will old habits die-hard for Drew? Is she doomed to repeat her greatest mistake in picking a mate? Or can she move on, and see that things aren’t always what they seem?
Carl is a fairly recent widower. He is a successful businessman who loves control and is not often told “no”. His four-year-old daughter, Amy, is enrolled at the center where Drew works. Soon, Drew becomes the object of Carl’s…affection?
Dennis is a nice guy, with a great job. He is a friend and co-worker of one of Drew’s friends Mark (the husband of Drew’s best friend, Terri). He is a great catch and would be perfect for Drew, however she is used to a certain “type” of guy…can she allow herself to be happiness she deserves?
Normally I wouldn’t go into this much depth with just the characters, especially the inclusion of secondary characters, however Ms. Mooney has spent a lot of time in their development, and it shows. We see incredibly complex relationships that seem to mesh flawlessly. As a reader, I want to know more about the history these characters have together, as well as the future they have ahead of them.
The abuse, while disturbing, is not gratuitous, and unless you have a history, it should not be a problem, as it is central to the plot of the book. Ms. Mooney has artfully interwoven flashbacks with present day scenarios and we understand why Drew has made the choices she has, as well as why she has the problems making the decisions she does.
More importantly, I think, is the positive light the author shows on counseling and Drew’s emotional recovery. All too often we see mental health written off, but in this case, we see Drew evolve with the help of her doctor, Joseph. She works through her emotions and draws strength from her past, setting her on course for a healthy future.
Striving For Normal is a five star read. It is well written, and I wouldn’t necessarily say it is an easy read, but that is more due to the subject matter, rather than the writing itself. Ms. Mooney has crafted characters with depth that have not only drawn the reader into this title, but will make for an easy segue into the next book in the series, Striving For Perfection, comes out next year. Striving For Normal, while part of a series, could easily be read as a standalone.
August 28, 2013
REVIEW TIME!STRIVING FOR NORMAL
by BL Mooney
Review by Wendy
Shhh, Mommy's in the Bathroom.,.Reading
5 Stars
Drew Clayborn has done things she can't forgive herself for. She's spent the last four years with Joseph, her very calm, understanding, and compassionate therapist. She doesn't feel she deserves to be happy after the tragic events and choices she has made.
Her best friends Terri and Mark have taken Drew under their wings and think its time for her to move forward. And they know the prefect guy for her. Problem is Drew doesn't think she will or even deserves to move on.
Carl Williamson is rich, handsome, and a powerful Alpha male. Carl gets what he wants, who he wants, when he wants it. Carl does things to Drew, physically and mentally. He sets her on fire, but is this a temptation too great for her?
Dennis Brooks is the all around nice guy. He's strong and handsome and makes Drew laugh and smile. He's the safe option.
Drew is torn between two men, one she has an intense reaction to and one that she thinks isn't strong enough to handle the demons she hides. Or option number 3, just stay alone.
Until her past comes back to haunt her, she's just Striving for Normal...
I was first introduced to BL Mooney with Coming Home. I really like this book, so I was happy to review her next undertaking.
Can I say, "WOW!" She really outdid herself with this one. I was sucked in from the beginning. You really want to know what Drew did that was so horrible. Well, Drew definitely has some demons to overcome. My emotions really ran the gambit on this one, I laughed, I cried, I got very turned on, mad, angry, pissed, and even had to step away. I fell in love with these characters, and some I down right loathed. The characters are well developed and the story flowed. The story alternates between what's going on in the present and what happened in the past. I don't want to say too much for fear that I will give things away, but this is a must read roller-coaster of emotions. This is a definite READ ME in my book.
I cant wait to see what BL Mooney has in store for us next!
Favorite Quotes:
"What do you want, Drew? I need you to tell me."
"You, please, I need you." I squirmed, trying to get where I needed to be.
He placed his forehead against mine and whispered, "I need to be part of you, Drew. Tell me what you need."
I felt him press against my entrance. I started to move down, but he held my hips still. I groaned. "I need you..."
------------
"If I can't love me, how can I expect him to?"
------------
"I think that you do want to see and that you're striving for normal and don't know how to accomplish that."
------------
by BL Mooney
Review by Wendy
Shhh, Mommy's in the Bathroom.,.Reading
5 Stars
Drew Clayborn has done things she can't forgive herself for. She's spent the last four years with Joseph, her very calm, understanding, and compassionate therapist. She doesn't feel she deserves to be happy after the tragic events and choices she has made.
Her best friends Terri and Mark have taken Drew under their wings and think its time for her to move forward. And they know the prefect guy for her. Problem is Drew doesn't think she will or even deserves to move on.
Carl Williamson is rich, handsome, and a powerful Alpha male. Carl gets what he wants, who he wants, when he wants it. Carl does things to Drew, physically and mentally. He sets her on fire, but is this a temptation too great for her?
Dennis Brooks is the all around nice guy. He's strong and handsome and makes Drew laugh and smile. He's the safe option.
Drew is torn between two men, one she has an intense reaction to and one that she thinks isn't strong enough to handle the demons she hides. Or option number 3, just stay alone.
Until her past comes back to haunt her, she's just Striving for Normal...
I was first introduced to BL Mooney with Coming Home. I really like this book, so I was happy to review her next undertaking.
Can I say, "WOW!" She really outdid herself with this one. I was sucked in from the beginning. You really want to know what Drew did that was so horrible. Well, Drew definitely has some demons to overcome. My emotions really ran the gambit on this one, I laughed, I cried, I got very turned on, mad, angry, pissed, and even had to step away. I fell in love with these characters, and some I down right loathed. The characters are well developed and the story flowed. The story alternates between what's going on in the present and what happened in the past. I don't want to say too much for fear that I will give things away, but this is a must read roller-coaster of emotions. This is a definite READ ME in my book.
I cant wait to see what BL Mooney has in store for us next!
Favorite Quotes:
"What do you want, Drew? I need you to tell me."
"You, please, I need you." I squirmed, trying to get where I needed to be.
He placed his forehead against mine and whispered, "I need to be part of you, Drew. Tell me what you need."
I felt him press against my entrance. I started to move down, but he held my hips still. I groaned. "I need you..."
------------
"If I can't love me, how can I expect him to?"
------------
"I think that you do want to see and that you're striving for normal and don't know how to accomplish that."
------------
December 21, 2013
Striving for Normal is the brilliant story of a young, driven woman, Drew, and the struggles she faces in trying to re-build her life, making herself whole and “normal” again after suffering a harrowing past at the hands of her abusive ex-boyfriend, Craig.
Drew struggles to find herself, and struggles to accept that she is complete enough, and worthy enough to be loved.
It is because of these insecurities that Drew feels herself too broken to experience a “normal”, loving relationship with the trustworthy, “good guy”, Dennis.
Dennis is a man who worships Drew and puts everything she wants, needs and desires before everything else.
Yet will her own insecurities and self doubt force Drew to turn away from Dennis, a man she views herself inferior to, and into the arms of Carl.
Carl isn’t necessarily a “bad guy”. He is struggling with his own demons, but he is a very dominating, very pushy and manipulating man.
In fact, he is so much like Craig it terrifies Drew. But it is this similarity that pulls Drew to Carl. She understands manipulation and finds it an easy pattern to fall back into. Is this really what she wants though? Will it mean that she is forced to push Dennis away forever, as the negative attraction to Carl proves too much? Will she push away her dream of a happily ever after?
Whichever decisions she makes, Drew has the unwavering, continued love and support of her two best friends and therapist. Together they provide a strong support network and help Drew face her demons head on, giving her the courage to survive all that life throws at her.
I absolutely loved this book. All the characters are well developed and the plot is exciting, believeable and pulls on your emotions.
You are left thinking “what next?” and this urges you to read on and stops you being able to put the book down.
The author cleverly delves into Drew’s destructive past using numerous flashback episodes – I really enjoyed this aspect of the book.
The flashbacks Drew experiences are quite shocking, and as a reader, you are transported back to the moment Drew is actually going through the
event. This adds a whole different dept to the story.
As the reader, I found myself in the moment with Drew, feeling what she felt, and then immediately after, once out of the flashback, you witness how the event has affected Drew’s life.
You really “get to know” Drew on every level, and can see just how strong a person she is to have survived everything that she has – even if she can not see this herself.
I really recommend this story. It is well written, real and believable.
~Simone~
*** This book was given free for an honest review ***
Drew struggles to find herself, and struggles to accept that she is complete enough, and worthy enough to be loved.
It is because of these insecurities that Drew feels herself too broken to experience a “normal”, loving relationship with the trustworthy, “good guy”, Dennis.
Dennis is a man who worships Drew and puts everything she wants, needs and desires before everything else.
Yet will her own insecurities and self doubt force Drew to turn away from Dennis, a man she views herself inferior to, and into the arms of Carl.
Carl isn’t necessarily a “bad guy”. He is struggling with his own demons, but he is a very dominating, very pushy and manipulating man.
In fact, he is so much like Craig it terrifies Drew. But it is this similarity that pulls Drew to Carl. She understands manipulation and finds it an easy pattern to fall back into. Is this really what she wants though? Will it mean that she is forced to push Dennis away forever, as the negative attraction to Carl proves too much? Will she push away her dream of a happily ever after?
Whichever decisions she makes, Drew has the unwavering, continued love and support of her two best friends and therapist. Together they provide a strong support network and help Drew face her demons head on, giving her the courage to survive all that life throws at her.
I absolutely loved this book. All the characters are well developed and the plot is exciting, believeable and pulls on your emotions.
You are left thinking “what next?” and this urges you to read on and stops you being able to put the book down.
The author cleverly delves into Drew’s destructive past using numerous flashback episodes – I really enjoyed this aspect of the book.
The flashbacks Drew experiences are quite shocking, and as a reader, you are transported back to the moment Drew is actually going through the
event. This adds a whole different dept to the story.
As the reader, I found myself in the moment with Drew, feeling what she felt, and then immediately after, once out of the flashback, you witness how the event has affected Drew’s life.
You really “get to know” Drew on every level, and can see just how strong a person she is to have survived everything that she has – even if she can not see this herself.
I really recommend this story. It is well written, real and believable.
~Simone~
*** This book was given free for an honest review ***
September 5, 2015
Just on a side note, this book is not a typical kind of book I'd normally read. I do have to say I thought the book was very well written. I did not however like the main character. I personally an not a fan of weak women, but understand that was the point of the story. My rating in now way reflects my personal feelings.
Drew is seeing a therapist to help her strive to be normal after getting out of a very abusive relationship. She gets into a love triangle with two men. One she is set up with by her friends, who is a positive influence. Then there is a other who is the father of a girl at the daycare she works for who is very reminiscent of her abusive ex.
The love triangle in the book reminded me a lot of many women these days. They aren't strong enough to make good choices, even when friends and doctors try to help them. You see them falling down the wrong path again and again and making the obvious worst choice despite having the best choices right in front of you. Drew many times in the book put herself in situation that were unnecessary, and only got her in trouble. If she had the smarts to think things through rationally, she would see the bad choices she's making. The good news is, she does grow and learn as the book goes on.
The reason I could not give this book 4 or 5 stars was for some flaws I saw in the book if it is truly set in current times. In real life many things that happened in the daycare could not happen. Parents, friends, boyfriends, would not be able to stroll in and out as they pleased. Daycares would not instruct a teacher to take a child home if they are sick and take care of it. I also don't believe if there was a known issue between a teacher and a parent that the staff would leave the one teacher alone after hours with the potential of running in with that parent, especially if there were harassment issues.
I can definitely see the appeal of this book for many readers. I would recommend it to someone if I knew this fell into the kind of fiction they enjoyed as the author does have a way of drawing you in.
I was given this as an audiobook for an honest review.
Drew is seeing a therapist to help her strive to be normal after getting out of a very abusive relationship. She gets into a love triangle with two men. One she is set up with by her friends, who is a positive influence. Then there is a other who is the father of a girl at the daycare she works for who is very reminiscent of her abusive ex.
The love triangle in the book reminded me a lot of many women these days. They aren't strong enough to make good choices, even when friends and doctors try to help them. You see them falling down the wrong path again and again and making the obvious worst choice despite having the best choices right in front of you. Drew many times in the book put herself in situation that were unnecessary, and only got her in trouble. If she had the smarts to think things through rationally, she would see the bad choices she's making. The good news is, she does grow and learn as the book goes on.
The reason I could not give this book 4 or 5 stars was for some flaws I saw in the book if it is truly set in current times. In real life many things that happened in the daycare could not happen. Parents, friends, boyfriends, would not be able to stroll in and out as they pleased. Daycares would not instruct a teacher to take a child home if they are sick and take care of it. I also don't believe if there was a known issue between a teacher and a parent that the staff would leave the one teacher alone after hours with the potential of running in with that parent, especially if there were harassment issues.
I can definitely see the appeal of this book for many readers. I would recommend it to someone if I knew this fell into the kind of fiction they enjoyed as the author does have a way of drawing you in.
I was given this as an audiobook for an honest review.
December 14, 2013
**JUST BOOKED received an ARC for an Honest Review**
EMOTIONAL…TWISTED….AMAZING!
Striving For Normal begins with Drew Clayborn speaking with her therapist of four years, Joseph Hatcher, in a session to discuss coming to terms with her past. Drew feels guilty about the things she has done and truly does not believe she should not be allowed any happiness, because she feels what she has done is unforgivable. Drew reveals the shocking secrets through her sessions with Therapist Joseph that will leave you appalled and sadden, but understanding why Drew can no longer trust.
Terri, Drew’s best friend, is trying to assist her with moving forward by helping her with her career and dating, but Drew is struggling to move forward. Drew then meets two men whom come into her life, Carl Williamson and Dennis Brooks, whom are worlds apart in character. Carl is a wealthy man that can easily have any woman he wants, but he is too fighting a personal loss and Dennis a laid-back man that makes her smile and makes her feel loved.
As Drew finally feels she is moving forward with her life, her past comes back to haunt her and she finds herself surrounded with everything she has been trying to overcome the past four years. Will Drew find true love and will her true love be able to protect her from her past, so she can have a hopeful future? Will Drew’s past shatter all hopes of her recovering from all her demons to move forward without the hope to be normal again? Striving For Normal is a beautiful story about a young woman struggling to be a survivor of unfortunate circumstance of life and finding the courage to move on with loving ourselves and allowing others to love us in return. Striving For Normal is a novel that will capture your attention immediately and will be unable to put the book down. While reading, you will find yourself on an INTENSE emotional roller coaster experiencing many emotions like being MAD, SAD, SCARED, SHOCKED, CRYING, LAUGHING, and FALLING IN LOVE.
I rate B.L. Mooney’s novel, Striving For Normal – 4.5 AMAZING STARS!
EMOTIONAL…TWISTED….AMAZING!
Striving For Normal begins with Drew Clayborn speaking with her therapist of four years, Joseph Hatcher, in a session to discuss coming to terms with her past. Drew feels guilty about the things she has done and truly does not believe she should not be allowed any happiness, because she feels what she has done is unforgivable. Drew reveals the shocking secrets through her sessions with Therapist Joseph that will leave you appalled and sadden, but understanding why Drew can no longer trust.
Terri, Drew’s best friend, is trying to assist her with moving forward by helping her with her career and dating, but Drew is struggling to move forward. Drew then meets two men whom come into her life, Carl Williamson and Dennis Brooks, whom are worlds apart in character. Carl is a wealthy man that can easily have any woman he wants, but he is too fighting a personal loss and Dennis a laid-back man that makes her smile and makes her feel loved.
As Drew finally feels she is moving forward with her life, her past comes back to haunt her and she finds herself surrounded with everything she has been trying to overcome the past four years. Will Drew find true love and will her true love be able to protect her from her past, so she can have a hopeful future? Will Drew’s past shatter all hopes of her recovering from all her demons to move forward without the hope to be normal again? Striving For Normal is a beautiful story about a young woman struggling to be a survivor of unfortunate circumstance of life and finding the courage to move on with loving ourselves and allowing others to love us in return. Striving For Normal is a novel that will capture your attention immediately and will be unable to put the book down. While reading, you will find yourself on an INTENSE emotional roller coaster experiencing many emotions like being MAD, SAD, SCARED, SHOCKED, CRYING, LAUGHING, and FALLING IN LOVE.
I rate B.L. Mooney’s novel, Striving For Normal – 4.5 AMAZING STARS!
August 9, 2016
I received a free copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. I give this a solid 4.5 Stars.
Striving for Normal is a wonderful read. The story line is so realistic. I mean how many of us can say we haven't dated or married a man that was ultimately our downfall? Here you have a normal college girl that gets caught up in a relationship with a charismatic ass. It's easier for someone to see from the outside looking in. Craig would have made a wonderful advertising exec. Putting a perfect spin on things to make you WANT, or ACCEPT what you have because that's the best you're going to get. We would consider it emotional abuse today, and unfortunately for Drew she gets out too little too late. Hence her relationship with her shrink...I love the fact that so much of the story revolves around that relationship. She needs his help and really tries to accept what he attempts to show her. The characters are so realistic, you can picture them living in your neighborhood. Drew is a wonderful loving friend who runs a daycare. Dennis is kinda the perfect boy next door that one tends to overlook. Carl is the alpha, I'll take what I want, when I want, and won't let anyone stand in my way, kinda guy...Craig, well we went over that. He's the ass. Terri and Mark, they're the best friends, the ones who take care of and nurture Drew.
The title really is the epitome of the story-line. Drew is just striving to lead a normal, mentally healthy life, learning to trust herself and her decisions all over again. This isn't a hot, steamy, sex laden read. It's a wonderful story with loads of drama, angst, and a touch of sexy to spice it up. But the drama and angst don't overpower the storyline, they enhance it. B.L. Mooney did a wonderful job of melding the past and present with flashbacks, and the twists and turns of the book just kept me enthralled. I will make sure that B.L. Mooney stays on my list of Must-have authors.
Striving for Normal is a wonderful read. The story line is so realistic. I mean how many of us can say we haven't dated or married a man that was ultimately our downfall? Here you have a normal college girl that gets caught up in a relationship with a charismatic ass. It's easier for someone to see from the outside looking in. Craig would have made a wonderful advertising exec. Putting a perfect spin on things to make you WANT, or ACCEPT what you have because that's the best you're going to get. We would consider it emotional abuse today, and unfortunately for Drew she gets out too little too late. Hence her relationship with her shrink...I love the fact that so much of the story revolves around that relationship. She needs his help and really tries to accept what he attempts to show her. The characters are so realistic, you can picture them living in your neighborhood. Drew is a wonderful loving friend who runs a daycare. Dennis is kinda the perfect boy next door that one tends to overlook. Carl is the alpha, I'll take what I want, when I want, and won't let anyone stand in my way, kinda guy...Craig, well we went over that. He's the ass. Terri and Mark, they're the best friends, the ones who take care of and nurture Drew.
The title really is the epitome of the story-line. Drew is just striving to lead a normal, mentally healthy life, learning to trust herself and her decisions all over again. This isn't a hot, steamy, sex laden read. It's a wonderful story with loads of drama, angst, and a touch of sexy to spice it up. But the drama and angst don't overpower the storyline, they enhance it. B.L. Mooney did a wonderful job of melding the past and present with flashbacks, and the twists and turns of the book just kept me enthralled. I will make sure that B.L. Mooney stays on my list of Must-have authors.
September 3, 2013
From the synopsis you can tell that Drew is probably pretty screwed up and my first thought was she is going to be a whiny girl that is going to want everyone to baby her. Why I thought this I really don't know but that was just my first thought and I figured I would not like her. I was WRONG! I loved her and how strong she was. She was messed up and had every reason to be and not trust herself. Although she had great best friends that really were her family that wanted nothing more than to protect her she wanted to over come what had happened to her and she was a very strong person. My next thought was a love triangle so both guys are going to be hot and she is going to have to have to choose one and hurt the other. Was I wrong? That I am not going to tell because it will give to much away and you know me and spoilers. I don't like to give anything away. So, you will have to read to see who Drew chooses and if someone ends up hurt.
I loved the story and it definitely has some twists and turns I didn't see coming. Which is something I love and it really was a shock to me. I loved the characters and of course Dennis and Carl are both great in there own ways but really neither was perfect and that is something that you don't see much of in books. There are so many things that could keep this story going and maybe there will be more. One can only hope with all the different characters that were in the book that could strive for a more normal life. This is without a doubt a book that everyone should read and it was not the typical love triangle story that I am use to reading about. I really hope that there is a plan to have a series come from this or even several stand alones with some of the same characters. Great job B.L. Mooney.
I loved the story and it definitely has some twists and turns I didn't see coming. Which is something I love and it really was a shock to me. I loved the characters and of course Dennis and Carl are both great in there own ways but really neither was perfect and that is something that you don't see much of in books. There are so many things that could keep this story going and maybe there will be more. One can only hope with all the different characters that were in the book that could strive for a more normal life. This is without a doubt a book that everyone should read and it was not the typical love triangle story that I am use to reading about. I really hope that there is a plan to have a series come from this or even several stand alones with some of the same characters. Great job B.L. Mooney.
September 12, 2013
Everyone has it. That skeleton in your closet that you don't want to let out, even to yourself. No matter how big or small, it will haunt you. You can never move on until you let go of your past. This is easier said than done, especially if you have been through a traumatic event.
This story is about Drew, who has had way more than her fair share of traumas in her life. She was completely controlled by her ex-boyfriend to the point that she was in danger. It doesn't start with that, it tells the tale of her trying to heal herself, which is a long and painful journey.
The characters really touched me throughout the book. The friendship that Drew and Terri have is absolutely amazing, and even Terri's husband Mark is a rock for Drew. They end up introducing her to Mark's friend Dennis and he and Drew hit it off, but she is constantly doubting that she deserves to be happy or be loved. Dennis is the perfect, sweet, loving gentleman in the story, but it's not all a fairy tale. Between her flashbacks, the other man vying for her attention, and family drama, there always seems to be something getting in the way.
I won't give away the story, but I was very happy how the story ended, and I would recommend it to anyone struggling to work past their own inner demons, no matter the size. I give this book 4.5 Stars!!
~Kelly
This story is about Drew, who has had way more than her fair share of traumas in her life. She was completely controlled by her ex-boyfriend to the point that she was in danger. It doesn't start with that, it tells the tale of her trying to heal herself, which is a long and painful journey.
The characters really touched me throughout the book. The friendship that Drew and Terri have is absolutely amazing, and even Terri's husband Mark is a rock for Drew. They end up introducing her to Mark's friend Dennis and he and Drew hit it off, but she is constantly doubting that she deserves to be happy or be loved. Dennis is the perfect, sweet, loving gentleman in the story, but it's not all a fairy tale. Between her flashbacks, the other man vying for her attention, and family drama, there always seems to be something getting in the way.
I won't give away the story, but I was very happy how the story ended, and I would recommend it to anyone struggling to work past their own inner demons, no matter the size. I give this book 4.5 Stars!!
~Kelly
August 23, 2013
Striving for normal is one most emotional books out there..
It's sweet and deep..It's about the glow that love can offer and about the disaster it may bring..
Drew is remarkably strong..She survived events other people wouldn't.She experienced events that people shouldn't..And she came out stronger..
Dennis seemed like a mild person..It seemed like he didn't have a strong character..But,that was a huge misconception..It wasn't that he weren't strong.It was that he knew what Drew needed and he was strong enough to make her see it..She had experienced violence and tragedy and abuse..She needed a man who would be kind and loving,so that she could get rid of the darkness that she was surrounded with since Craig.
Carl..He is not a bad guy,not at all..I actually like him a lot..But I think he still needs time to recover from hiw wife's loss..
In fact,dear B.L.Mooney could you please write a book about Carl??..I believe he needs his HEA..
Striving for normal is deep and moving..I couldn't put it down..And I may have been quite teary on some moments...
It's sweet and deep..It's about the glow that love can offer and about the disaster it may bring..
Drew is remarkably strong..She survived events other people wouldn't.She experienced events that people shouldn't..And she came out stronger..
Dennis seemed like a mild person..It seemed like he didn't have a strong character..But,that was a huge misconception..It wasn't that he weren't strong.It was that he knew what Drew needed and he was strong enough to make her see it..She had experienced violence and tragedy and abuse..She needed a man who would be kind and loving,so that she could get rid of the darkness that she was surrounded with since Craig.
Carl..He is not a bad guy,not at all..I actually like him a lot..But I think he still needs time to recover from hiw wife's loss..
In fact,dear B.L.Mooney could you please write a book about Carl??..I believe he needs his HEA..
Striving for normal is deep and moving..I couldn't put it down..And I may have been quite teary on some moments...
September 17, 2013
Thus book was an intense read for me. Drew was a broken women just trying to survive. She believed she was a horrible person and did not deserve happiness then she meets Dennis oh and she meets Carl, which one will she choose? You will have to read to find out. I must say that I was torn between Carl and Dennis at first, manly because Dennis seemed to nice to me and I kept waiting for the other shoe to drop. Carl did not seem all that controlling to me in the beginning he seemed to be your typical Alps male I quickly figured out this man was not told no very often and fought dirty for what he wanted. I love Drew from the start, she had been through hell and back and was trying to get out of the darkness that her ex Craig caused. At this point I don't even want to discuss the her ex because honestly the man is not worth the air he breathes. Will Drew make the right decision or will history repeat its self? Will Craig finally get what is coming to him? Find out purchase this book it is filled with love, pain, and definelty some heart wrenching moments.
August 9, 2013
I was honored to be a beta reader for this book. It is a book that once you pick up you will have a hard time putting it down until it is finished. It is a stand alone novel with the possibilities of becoming a series. Which I really hope happens, I loved the characters in Striving for Normal.
Striving for Normal by B.L. Mooney is a book that will capture your mind, body and soul. Drew is rebuilding her life after a disastrous relationship, step by step and piece by piece. Drew has insecurity and trust issues due to the controlling relationship she was in with Craig. However, with the help of her friends and therapist, Drew is able to rebuild and learn to trust and find love again, but not without a few bumps in the road. Just when you think you know where the book is taking you, guess again.
Striving for Normal by B.L. Mooney is a book that will capture your mind, body and soul. Drew is rebuilding her life after a disastrous relationship, step by step and piece by piece. Drew has insecurity and trust issues due to the controlling relationship she was in with Craig. However, with the help of her friends and therapist, Drew is able to rebuild and learn to trust and find love again, but not without a few bumps in the road. Just when you think you know where the book is taking you, guess again.
May 2, 2014
This was a very emotional book! So get the tissues ready! In a way the book is how it starts out a therapy session! As you follow Drew the main character around. You see how she tries to put her life back together. You meet two love interest. I would like to go into this but spoilers so read it yourself! This book also is a bit of a thriller as well! I really enjoyed it a lot. Just rember to have tissues!! Expect a lot of tears of sadness and happiness. I am going to get a print version for my mother in law. So that should tell you how much I love this book!!
November 30, 2014
BL Mooney is one of a kind. Her romance are real, and can be emotional to read. But they are SO worth it! Loved this one!
Drew and Dennis's story is a roller coaster; you will probably laugh, I know you will cry, and you might get mad, but this is a great romance. The storyline is very realistic, and parts of it may be hard to read; but it is worth every minute of angst.
Definitely would recommend this to someone looking to read an emotional romantic suspense novel.
Drew and Dennis's story is a roller coaster; you will probably laugh, I know you will cry, and you might get mad, but this is a great romance. The storyline is very realistic, and parts of it may be hard to read; but it is worth every minute of angst.
Definitely would recommend this to someone looking to read an emotional romantic suspense novel.
February 14, 2016
Audiobook - Narration - Meghan Kelly
Meghan has a really nice narration voice and one or two ok character voices, but for the most part, her male characters are intolerable. She adds a 'tone of voice' to the characters that may even change the tone of the book. Because of that, It was all I could do to finish this book.
Meghan has a really nice narration voice and one or two ok character voices, but for the most part, her male characters are intolerable. She adds a 'tone of voice' to the characters that may even change the tone of the book. Because of that, It was all I could do to finish this book.
November 6, 2013
Another great book from b l mooney! Read it!!!
May 12, 2014
I read this in one sitting. An original story that kept me on the edge of my seat from beginning to end. A story of amazing friendships self discovery healing acceptance and love. A great read.
June 8, 2023
Loved the narration of Meghan Kelly
Drew has been abused and damaged from a bad relationship that caused her to lose her first child in a violent way! But she does not stay a victim, with the help, and love of good friends and new man, she becomes whole again
Drew has been abused and damaged from a bad relationship that caused her to lose her first child in a violent way! But she does not stay a victim, with the help, and love of good friends and new man, she becomes whole again
October 12, 2015
5 psychologically shocking stars!
This book is about Drew and her past with an abusive ex boyfriend named Craig. Drew attends weekly therapy sessions thanks to him and has the support of her friends she met through Craig, married with kids, Mark and Terri.
Drew was basically sexually abused by Craig, made to let him do things to her in very public places. She liked the thrill of it, but also knew it wasn't right and tried stopping it from happening in public on many occasions.
Skip 4 years ahead and she's no longer with him, escaping the abuse and mental scarred, going to therapy, living with a married couple and their kids, and can't even think about dating. All she's striving for is normalcy. Hence the name of the book.
Thanks to Terri setting up a interview she gets hired at a preschool/daycare. One of the kids father's is interested in her, dangerously so. Drew also had been hooked up on a blind date, after saying she wasn't interested, with Marks friend and co-worker Dennis. Drew is kind of dating him now, but she isn't sure it's what she wants, so she takes it slow.
Drew ends up getting harassed by the father of one of the kids she teaches at the daycare and it turns really bad. He uses his daughter to manipulate her into situations and into doing things, touching her inappropriately and trapping her in the office. No one does anything to help her except Dennis, who gets into a fight with the father in front of the school. Drew is still attracted to the father, due to her trauma with her ex.
I felt for Drew, going through all she had, it's no wonder she wanted that kind of abusive relationship still.
There were twist and turns and just wait for the shocking ending! A must read.
I received this ARC in exchange for an honest review.
Laura Redmon
Cutting Muse Blog Review
This book is about Drew and her past with an abusive ex boyfriend named Craig. Drew attends weekly therapy sessions thanks to him and has the support of her friends she met through Craig, married with kids, Mark and Terri.
Drew was basically sexually abused by Craig, made to let him do things to her in very public places. She liked the thrill of it, but also knew it wasn't right and tried stopping it from happening in public on many occasions.
Skip 4 years ahead and she's no longer with him, escaping the abuse and mental scarred, going to therapy, living with a married couple and their kids, and can't even think about dating. All she's striving for is normalcy. Hence the name of the book.
Thanks to Terri setting up a interview she gets hired at a preschool/daycare. One of the kids father's is interested in her, dangerously so. Drew also had been hooked up on a blind date, after saying she wasn't interested, with Marks friend and co-worker Dennis. Drew is kind of dating him now, but she isn't sure it's what she wants, so she takes it slow.
Drew ends up getting harassed by the father of one of the kids she teaches at the daycare and it turns really bad. He uses his daughter to manipulate her into situations and into doing things, touching her inappropriately and trapping her in the office. No one does anything to help her except Dennis, who gets into a fight with the father in front of the school. Drew is still attracted to the father, due to her trauma with her ex.
I felt for Drew, going through all she had, it's no wonder she wanted that kind of abusive relationship still.
There were twist and turns and just wait for the shocking ending! A must read.
I received this ARC in exchange for an honest review.
Laura Redmon
Cutting Muse Blog Review
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