Bleeding Hearts

by Dana Louise Provo

Orphaned at an early age, now twenty-four-year-old Camryn Lucks is ready to commit to find that special someone, and so accepts a date from a charming, gallant, handsome stranger. The last thing she imagines after accepting that first date with Carson would actually be the beginning of her worst nightmare.

Red roses, a reminder of her parents' killer, soon become an emblem of horror for Cami as one by one, those closest to her fall victim to a serial killer. Cami becomes an obsession for Carson, the man she had finally allowed herself to love. Not only is he vying for her heart, but also her life.

Finding herself in a whirlwind of torments shadowed by the blood-colored bloom, Cami finds solace in Isaac, a neighboring police officer. She’s desperate to escape the haunting memories, but she must revisit them in order to catch her would-be killer. Living life in constant fear has driven Cami to second-guess every choice she makes. Will the police catch the illusive murderer, or will Cami be forced to face him once again?

Genres: Romance

213 pages, ebook

Published August 25, 2016

About the author

Dana Provo has always loved books and reads everything from young adult fantasy to adult historical romances. When she’s not reading or writing her next novel, Dana can be found riding her horses and getting ready for competition. Dana lives with her husband and two house plants in Richmond, Virginia.

Reviews

[Bex (Beckie Bookworm) · Rating 3 out of 5]

🌟🌟🌟STARS
GIFTED COPY REVIEW.

So Bleeding Hearts (Book #1) by Dana Louise Provo is the story of twenty-four-year-old Camryn Lucks, Cami to her friends a shy girl orphaned at a young age and just wanting some love.
So when a handsome stranger Carson shows an interest Cami imagines herself in love.
But it soon becomes apparent there is something a bit off about her new love, her friends can see it but Cami wants to believe in his love so ignores the warning signs.
When she finally does see the light Carson shows his true colours forcing Cami to fight for her life and ending up on the doorstep of neighbour Isaac a police officer who then makes it his mission to take Cami under his wing and protect her from the madman who is obsessed with her.
So I did enjoy this, I just struggled a bit with the writing style as it was a bit different to what I am used to.
Bleeding hearts told the story backwards with Cami's run to safety and then a series of flashback telling the backstory here.
As this progresses we get to see all the events that have led up to this present time.
And as Issac struggles to protect Cami they grow closer pulled together in a way by the circumstances as well as a mutual attraction.
So I liked the fact that this was more story focused than romance focused.
The romance between Cami and Isaac almost took a back seat as events unfolded.
happening slowly unnoticed in the background.
Though the way this was told wasn't really my favourite style of writing you couldn't help but be pulled in as this story progresses.
The way events eventually unfolded, well I did guess, But that was fine it was still an edge of your seat ride that delivered on all fronts.
I would have liked maybe to get to know Isaac a bit more than I did as I feel he actually got lost in the story somehow.
we saw a lot of Isaac the copper but less of Isaac the man if that even makes sense.
He was just there and I feel most of the focus was ultimately on Carson himself.
So yeh that would have the icing for me as I feel he was a bit of a stranger.
This would have taken Bleeding hearts for me to the next level and also make me rate it much higher than I have.
So yeh this was an entertaining read that I enjoyed.
I was provided with an ARC of "Bleeding Hearts" By the author of which I have reviewed voluntary.
All opinions expressed are entirely my own.



Reviewed By Beckie Bookworm.
https://www.facebook.com/beckiebookworm/
www.beckiebookworm.com

[Lauren Jones · Rating 5 out of 5]

The sun, already rising over the ocean, warms the porch as the sand glistens like a million jewels. Sitting in the rocking chair, I welcome the salty breeze. My gaze sweeps across the barren beach and stop when I see a bouquet of red roses at the bottom of the steps. The blood-colored bloom is beginning to be a bad omen of what’s to come. I look over my shoulders then back at the flowers. Stealthily standing from my chair, I pluck the small white note attached to the vase. You can’t run from me.

What makes a sociopath? Is it biological or is it environmental? There are so many arguments that can be made about this subject as well as many others. Provo shares an insight with her readers of a man who will stop at nothing to obtain his desire. This man, while at first, is seemingly charming and gentlemanly, begins to show signs of being controlling and egotistical. Overwhelming jealousy is also a sign that something is off about a person, especially when they can’t stand the sight of someone hugging their own family or hanging out with their best friend. It is typically human nature to be enamored with the thought of a perfect romance, when in actuality…it is something quite different to the other person. The age old quote applies to this scenario, love is blind.

Cami Lucks feels that she is every bit down on her luck lately. She has her extended family that consists of her best friend and her father figure; however, her family is gone—murdered. After her best friend informs her of their engagement, she is thrilled but longs for the same type of relationship with someone. Can she find that perfect match? That is when she meets Carson Lynch. Carson is kind, handsome, intriguing and works in the building right next to hers. Luck has finally caught up to her…or so she thinks. After a couple of dates, Carson becomes jealous of what little she calls her family and his moods change drastically. He is happy and light-hearted at times and then violent and dangerous at other times. Cami knows that this is not the person she began to have feelings for, but she thinks that he can change…not until the finality of her life is placed on the line. After declining Carson’s engagement proposal, Cami is finally able to understand who or what he is—he is a hunter, a killer…a monster that she wants nothing to do with. She is able to escape from the attempt on her life and run for help…to a neighbor who happens to also be a police officer. Her neighbor, Isaac is able to help her but what to you do when you are being hunted? Where can you go and who can you trust? Will it ever end?

Provo has a superb story-line with fantastic character development and original content. While the story is predictable, the descriptiveness and mystery within the story is still highly entertaining and mesmerizing. The pace of this novel is fast, making it easy to read; however, there are some spelling errors throughout the read. Since this is an advanced reader copy, these may have been cleaned up upon further proofreading, but if not, this should not hinder enjoyment of the novel at all. If you are a reader of psychological suspense and crime, this may be perfect for you.

A free copy was exchanged for an honest review of this fictional piece.

[Jennifer Y. · Rating 3 out of 5]

*I received an eARC of this book in exchange for an honest review*

Cami thought she had finally met her Prince Charming when she started going out with Carson, but as their relationship developed, cracks in her Mr. Perfect began to show and what she thought was the perfect guy began to show his ugly side.  Possessive, abusive, and controlling, Carson wants Cami all to himself and will do anything to make it so.  Ignoring all of the signs, Cami continues to allow the relationship to develop leading to one explosive night, which is where we first meet our main character, Cami.

The story opens with the attack and is told in flashbacks as Cami reflects on how her relationship with Carson went so wrong and shares her story with her police officer neighbor and temporary bodyguard, Isaac.  At times the whole back and forth got a bit confusing, but I am glad we got to see how the relationship with Carson developed and the signs that something was not right…if only Cami had seen them (or rather paid attention to and didn‘t ignore them).  There were also a few things that happened that seemed a bit out of place in the story (I won’t spoil them by mentioning them).  And the surprise twists/strange coincidences really got me.  I definitely didn’t see those coming!  The author definitely knows how to surprise a reader.

It was nice to see Cami grow as a character and recognize the signs she ignored in her previous relationship. I would like to think that this experience has changed her. Despite losing everyone close to her, she is determined to not be afraid anymore.  I really admire that determination.  This was a very interesting romantic suspense with unique twists and turns.

[Kade Cook · Rating 5 out of 5]

Cami had the perfect life, the perfect job...even her friends were darn near impeccable. Now all she needs is to find the perfect man. But after years of searching, and thinking she would never find her knight in shining armor, Carson emerges—tall, dark and suited in black Armani. He picks her up after a nasty fall on the ice and she falls for him—literally. Now with her world complete she should be happy, right? But some things in her all too seamless bubble, aren’t what they appear to be until it is too late.
Dana Provo completely compels you in this romantically twisted novel and pulls you in to every heartfelt scene only to rip you back out with the reality of Camryn’s world. Finding love is hard, finding true love is even harder...especially when it tries to kill you. This fantastic read will have you turning pages quickly. Highly recommended to all those who love romance that comes at a price.

[Claire · Rating 5 out of 5]

I was seriously hoping after reading the synopsis that this would be a good book but wow I just wasn't prepared for just how good it was, it was fantastic the writing was just superb and I actually loved how each chapter was a day and it flipped from past to present it really kept me gripped. The story line just totally pulled me in so much that I actually read this in one sitting. I really loved all the characters especially Cami and Issac they were just perfect and so real even the story it just has such a real feel to it. As the book gets further in the tension just rises every chapter it is literally nail biting a totally fantastic thriller that left me desperate for more highly recommended to anyone who like a good James Patterson book.

Arc received from the publishers in exchange for a honest review.

[Kayla Krantz · Rating 5 out of 5]

After the tragedies of her childhood, Cami has the perfect life. She loves her job and her friends. The only thing missing in her life is a man. Shyness edges Cami to say "yes" to the next guy who asks her out...who happens to be the mysterious Carson. At first, Carson seems to be her knight in shining armor, kind, handsome, and caring. Then, things begin to change. The nightmare from her childhood is back, and Cami must fight her way to freedom or die trying.

This was a powerful read! I loved the characters, Carson especially. Poor Cami goes through so much because of him. This fast-paced read will keep you guessing what's about to happen, and when you reach the end, you'll be in shock and ready for book two!

[Lori Murray · Rating 4 out of 5]

Blog Tour for the book Bleeding Hearts.
 
 
 
Link to Goodreads: https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/3... Purchase Links: Amazon | B&N | Kobo | iBooks
Link to Tour Schedule: http://www.chapter-by-chapter.com/blo... Giveaway Information: Contest ends September 30, 2016 One (1) winner will receive a digital copy of Bleeding Hearts by Dana Louise Provo (INT) Embed Code: a Rafflecopter giveaway


 
Bleeding Hearts (Book #1) by Dana Louise Provo Publication Date: August 25, 2016 Publisher: Clean Reads Orphaned at an early age, now twenty-four-year-old Camryn Lucks is ready to commit to find that special someone, and so accepts a date from a charming, gallant, handsome stranger. The last thing she imagines after accepting that first date with Carson would actually be the beginning of her worst nightmare. Red roses, a reminder of her parents' killer, soon become an emblem of horror for Cami as one by one, those closest to her fall victim to a serial killer. Cami becomes an obsession for Carson, the man she had finally allowed herself to love. Not only is he vying for her heart, but also her life. Finding herself in a whirlwind of torments shadowed by the blood-colored bloom, Cami finds solace in Isaac, a neighboring police officer. She’s desperate to escape the haunting memories, but she must revisit them in order to catch her would-be killer. Living life in constant fear has driven Cami to second-guess every choice she makes. Will the police catch the illusive murderer, or will Cami be forced to face him once again?
 
Dana Provo has always loved books and reads everything from young adult fantasy to adult historical romances. When she’s not reading or writing her next novel, Dana can be found riding her horses and getting ready for competition. Dana lives with her husband and two house plants in Richmond, Virginia.
 

 
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                Excerpt
 
My arm trembles as I grip the cool handle of my pistol, keeping a firm grasp to ensure it doesn’t slip out of my sweaty hand. It usually stands sentry in my left nightstand to scare the nightmares away. But this isn’t a dream. The room is dark and hides the face of the man whose intent is to kill me. But I know who he is. A metallic taste fills my mouth; I want to gag. My blood drips off the blade in his hand in slow, steady beats on the carpet. My arms shake as I lift the barrel and point it in his direction. He doesn't move. His heavy breaths alert me to the meager distance between us. We’re at a stalemate. A soft glow from the lamppost just outside my window casts a sliver of light on his face. His dark, beady eyes that I have grown to know rake over my body like I'm another one of his many victims. He lifts the edges of his mouth into a smile. My heart plunges into my stomach. I know what that sinister expression means, and I think back to all the times he had looked at me like that before. I had been so blind. Before I react he lunges at me, grabbing onto my waist and twisting me to the ground. I shriek as my head slams against the bed frame. Black spots flood my vision. I squeeze my hand only to find it empty. My gun is gone. The sound of the knife clattering on the floor gives me slight hope. Not much though. He climbs up my body trying to pin my arms to the floor. I thrash my fists around, desperate to knock him off. “Get off!” I scream, pulling on his shirt and kicking him off balance. Wrapping his hands around my arms, my attacker cuts off the circulation of blood. Rug burns flare across my skin as he drags me across the carpet. He closes his hands around my neck, shutting off my air supply. I pull at his hands but it's no use; he has always been stronger than me. My pulse drums a frantic beat in my ears. The air slowly leaks out from my lungs, killing any hope I may have left. I search for the gun around the room; it may be my only savior now. "Why are you doing this?" I struggle to get the words out. He squints his dark eyes. I'm wondering if there might be a chance that he will stop this madness. I am wrong. "It'll be over soon, sweetheart." His hands again tighten around my neck, blocking the air from entering my lungs.
My Review
 
WoW the villain in this book is such a sicko. I really felt so bad for Cami the way this sicko kept terrorizing her. People close to her die, but she keeps going, even though she does break down a lot. (But who can really blame her?)
 
I really loved Isaac, who of course becomes Cami's love interest, he was so great to her after she was attacked. I felt bad for him as well, he didn't have a great history in the love department either. 
 
The whole book in general was so tensed, you never knew what was going to happen next. I loved the book. The one I really didn't like of course was the sicko bad guy. I would definitely read this book again, and buy it when I have some money. 
 
I am so happy I was chosen to be part of the book tour for this book. Thanks so much Chapter by Chapter for giving me this chance to read this book and for just giving my honest opinion on how I felt about the book.
 

 
                                   
 
 
 


 

[Maddy Martinelli · Rating 5 out of 5]

I would first like to thank Chapter by Chapter blog tours for including me in their blog tour for this novel and sending me a copy for an honest review. You can visit my tour stop on my blog www.thepaperworlds.blogspot.com on September 16th, 2016, to learn learn more. First off, this book was absolutely amazing in every way, shape, and form. The premise of the book is so interesting and unique compared to what is out in bookstores today, that it had drawn me right into the story. I didn't know what to expect from this book, but it has blown me away and is one of the best novels that I have read this year. When I began to read the book, I had not expected to receive it in the form of flashbacks and present state, but I was pleasantly surprised to find that this method really brings the story together, and we get to experience the repercussions of the events that play out throughout the novel and reminisce in the past. Cami, Issac, and Carson are such complex characters in their own way, they each have an essence that brings something to the table that no other character can. The bonds that are formed throughout the story are so realistic that it seems as though this story is jumping off the page and becoming a reality. The plot thickened every chapter and the author was able to bring the story to life in such a way that it pulls the reader in and has them sitting on the edge of their seat. I am so excited to see that this was just the first book in a series, and cannot wait until I can read more of her work. I highly recommend this book to fans of thriller novels such as Gone Girl by Gillian Flynn and Survive the Night by Danielle Vega.

** You can find all of my reviews here, on my Goodreads page; add me as a friend!, as well as on my blog: www.thepaperworlds.blogspot.com and can find me on Instagram and Twitter as @thepaperworlds and on my Tumblr: www.thepaperworlds.tumblr.com **

[Kendra - Kendra Loves Books · Rating 4 out of 5]

Full Review at http://kendralovesbooks.blogspot.com/...

I received a copy from Chapter by Chapter Blog Tours for a honest review.

The book starts out with Cami getting a ride home from a stranger named Carson. He seemed nice and good-natured. But he was the exact opposite of that. Carson was a psychopath to the extreme. He was also so sweet and innocent to Cami and always getting her flowers. Then the true Carson came out when she did not except his marriage proposal after of less than a month of dating. Was he freaking delusion of course she wasn't going to except. Who does that?

Then Carson tries to kill Cami and she runs over to her neighbors apartment who is a cop named Issac. Issac was sweet and nurturing to Cami throughout her entire experience with Carson. He gave her a place to stay until Carson was caught and put behind bars.

Cami did not have a good life right from the beginning, her parents were murdered when she was younger. Then she lost everybody she loved due to crazy Carson. He continually stacked her until he was caught.

This book definitely makes you not want to talk to strangers or get rides from them and to trust no one. This book definitely keeps you on your toes throughout the entire book! I am glad Cami could finally find love at the end, despite losing everyone she loves. She deserves to find true love and a happy life! I enjoyed this book and recommend it. I am excited to continue with the series!

[Elena · Rating 5 out of 5]

Awesome! Suspensful, exciting, and thrilling all the way through. It keeps you on the edge of your seat! Loved it!

[E.A. · Rating 4 out of 5]

( I receavied this boom free from the author in exchange for my honest review )

It's been a time since I read a murder thriller. And I must say I was impressed with the way this story turned out.
At first I wasn't to keen on the opening, but as the story went on I like the style the author presented. It had a "Motive"(Love that TV Show) feel to it; needless to say, I couldn't stop reading once I started.

From start to finish I was hooked. I had to know who one in the end, why he did it . As far as murder thrillers goes, this was probably one of the best I've read. And I've read some from the best.

I'm not going to go to much into the story as I don't want to ruin it. But hell, I will say that Cami, she's one hell of a girl, and strong as hell. She's a fighter and by god she's was going to let the ass ruin her life more then he already had.

I highly recommend the book, it's a fast pace, heart pounding ride that will have you wishing you could jump in a deal what Carson has coming to him.

Happy Reading.

E.A. Walsh

[Amber Ballard · Rating 5 out of 5]

Bleeding Hearts
Bleeding Hearts by Dana Louise Provo

Wow and I don't say that in a bad way! This author has truly captured the complete experience of trying to escape domestic violence! The free of never being free, always looking over your shoulder, sounds sudden touch, she has done wonderful! This book is a great story for any girl of living through this nightmare and finding light at the end of the tunnel! I loved this book! I am a survivor of domestic violence and I love how the author wrote and had cami looking back at all the little signs and warnings that we all over look in a relationship! I love that Isaac is there to be here wall to lean on a help her! Such a great book!

[Momma Says: To Read or Not to Read · Rating 4 out of 5]

3.5 stars
While I would consider this one more thriller than romance or suspense, it is a page-turning read. It's a bit different from most books in the genre in that we know who the antagonist is from the very beginning with a heart-pounding opener, and then the story is told in bits and pieces with flashbacks. I do prefer to be left in the dark about the whodunit/who's behind it all element, mostly because I enjoy the puzzle as I try to figure it all out, but we do get some interesting twists in the story as everything comes together. The romance aspect is more secondary or even tertiary to everything else going on and it's kind of a slow build that you can see coming but don't give much thought to as Isaac tries to protect Cami. On the other side of that coin, the relationship between Cami and Carson progresses crazy fast, which makes sense given what we learn about him throughout this tale. Carson certainly makes for a chilling bad guy as we learn more and more about him and Cami is a curious mix of innocence and strength. On the whole, the story is well-written and the author is talented at drawing the reader into a scene. It's fast-paced and even when I knew what was coming, I still found myself on the edge of my seat, especially during some of the flashbacks. So, while there were some issues for me, most were my own personal preference, and in the end, the story did hold my interest and is definitely worth the read.

[Karen Martin · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wow. This is one of those books that once you turn the last page, you just have to breathe. From the moment the story begins, it grips you with its intensity and quick pacing. The minute the characters seem to breathe is the minute their world gets torn upside down again. Though the story seems to start at a climactic mid-point, the author does a fantastic job weaving the plot from that moment forward with flash backs that only heighten the sense of urgency rather than jostling the reader from the story. If you're looking for a light, happy story, this is not it, but it is a great read, regardless. There's wonderful examples of relationships, both good and bad, and an ending that's both surprising and gives the reader a sense of closure. If you're looking for a suspenseful story, filled with edge-of-your-seat, heart-pounding moments, this is a book I'd recommend.

Disclaimer: I received a copy of this book for my honest review. All opinions are my own.

[Amanda Lindsey Bursting Bookshelf Blog · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book was so good!!!! It has me on the edge of my seat!!! So much happens in Cami's life....so many twists and turns....and revelations by the end. I was worried things wouldn't work out but after reading I found the end just. I just wish so much death hasn't happened in her life. So much loss and turmoil turn her life upside down and sideways. A tornado of destruction left in the wake. I'm looking forward to more from the author! Fantastic read!!!!!

[Toni Brown · Rating 5 out of 5]

Read the book and met the author. Her thought process in writing this book made so much sense. Thorough enjoyed it!

[J. Florence · Rating 2 out of 5]

This book bothered me. I didn't finish it.
I just couldn't read this book.
I gave it a two star, but I didn't read it all.

[Chad · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a story that may make you think twice the next time you meet a handsome or beautiful stranger! From the first scene I felt the need to keep reading. There are some great, intense scenes throughout the book that kept me wondering what would happen next. I enjoyed reading about the blossoming romance as well as the snapshots into what led the main character into her current predicament. Switching from past to present so often was a little confusing at first, but I got the hang of it after awhile. I do wish I could have gotten to know a few of the characters better, but I hope more of that will be in book 2.

[Freddie DiFranco · Rating 5 out of 5]

A gripping tale of love and suspense! Bleeding Hearts had me hooked from the first intense scene of the story. With a strong main character and diverse supporting ones, this is a great book to read at any time!