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Ever After #4
Saving Ever After
Reckless. Wild. Out of control. Mia's life is spiraling headlong into trouble and she can't seem to stop it. She's desperate to feel loved, desperate to feel anything besides alone. One bad decision after another leaves her on the verge of losing everything. The only person who can save Mia from herself is the last person in the world who wants to. So why does he keep showing up to her rescue?
Chris is living the dream. The band is selling out concerts and their records are turning platinum. He's in a good relationship, and the last thing he needs to worry about is some kid hell bent on destroying her life. She's selfish, impulsive, way too young and headed for trouble at break-neck speeds, but in the rare moments that he gets a glimpse of the girl under all that, he can't help but be drawn to her, and he can't seem to stop himself from playing her white knight. Will he be able to pull her out of the darkness, or will she drag him down with her?
Chris is living the dream. The band is selling out concerts and their records are turning platinum. He's in a good relationship, and the last thing he needs to worry about is some kid hell bent on destroying her life. She's selfish, impulsive, way too young and headed for trouble at break-neck speeds, but in the rare moments that he gets a glimpse of the girl under all that, he can't help but be drawn to her, and he can't seem to stop himself from playing her white knight. Will he be able to pull her out of the darkness, or will she drag him down with her?
- GenresRomance
Unknown Binding
First published May 21, 2015
15 people are currently reading
207 people want to read
About the author
Stephanie Hoffman McManus
24 books447 followersStephanie is a New Adult romance author who debuted her first series in Spring of 2014, but her love affair with books began at an early age. She consumed them from the moment she learned to read, loving nothing more than to get lost in the fictional worlds that came to life on the pages. Creating her own stories was something she always enjoyed but never pursued until she wrote Finding Ever After, her first novel. It has been a dream come true ever since.
She has many passions outside books, including hiking, traveling, drawing, painting, design, baking and cake decorating. Prior to the release of her first novel, she was running her own bakery and cake shop in the small coastal town where she was born and raised and returned home to after moving away for college. Becoming an author has been an incredible journey, one she hopes never ends.
She has many passions outside books, including hiking, traveling, drawing, painting, design, baking and cake decorating. Prior to the release of her first novel, she was running her own bakery and cake shop in the small coastal town where she was born and raised and returned home to after moving away for college. Becoming an author has been an incredible journey, one she hopes never ends.
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Displaying 1 - 21 of 21 reviews
June 14, 2015
Wow! This series is just so good! I can’t get enough of the sexy rockstars of Ashes and Embers and their women.
Saving Ever After is the fourth book in this series and is the story of Chris, the drummer, and Mia, Sadie’s younger sister. This one was the most emotional for me so far! Mia is young and insecure. She has so much dragging her down and it is a long, hard journey to watch her work through her demons.
“Just once, I wanted to be enough for someone to stay.”
Chris can’t deny his attraction to Mia and is the only one truly able to see Mia for who she is. And while he wants to help her, he has his own issues to work through.
“Why was she so broken? Why did I want to be the one to help her so badly?”
I love when Mia is able to be herself and let her inner-geek come out! She is such a strong, beautiful, amazing person who had to learn to be okay with who she is. I cried a lot through her struggles, but I was also able to relate to her in many ways. And Chris was such a good guy. He had me swooning many times when he saved Mia from disaster.
“Do you see me?” I whispered. “I see you. Always have. Even when I tried not to.”
I LOVE how much we get to see the rest of the band and continue to watch their families grow. And Grandma Helen; I think she is my favorite character – that damn bedazzled stun gun had me laughing like crazy. I absolutely adored this story and I can’t wait to watch Spade fall in love! ~ Tiffany, 4.5 stars
Saving Ever After is the fourth book in this series and is the story of Chris, the drummer, and Mia, Sadie’s younger sister. This one was the most emotional for me so far! Mia is young and insecure. She has so much dragging her down and it is a long, hard journey to watch her work through her demons.
“Just once, I wanted to be enough for someone to stay.”
Chris can’t deny his attraction to Mia and is the only one truly able to see Mia for who she is. And while he wants to help her, he has his own issues to work through.
“Why was she so broken? Why did I want to be the one to help her so badly?”
I love when Mia is able to be herself and let her inner-geek come out! She is such a strong, beautiful, amazing person who had to learn to be okay with who she is. I cried a lot through her struggles, but I was also able to relate to her in many ways. And Chris was such a good guy. He had me swooning many times when he saved Mia from disaster.
“Do you see me?” I whispered. “I see you. Always have. Even when I tried not to.”
I LOVE how much we get to see the rest of the band and continue to watch their families grow. And Grandma Helen; I think she is my favorite character – that damn bedazzled stun gun had me laughing like crazy. I absolutely adored this story and I can’t wait to watch Spade fall in love! ~ Tiffany, 4.5 stars
July 12, 2015
This was a fantastic book! Stephanie Hoffman McManus makes a great point with what I guess would be considered the dedication page and again at the end of the book, with just a few simple words basically. You are good enough just the way you are. That's something that I think too many of us have problems with, is always trying to be what others expect us to be.
This is Mia's story. She is a troubled young girl who keeps making some really bad decisions that end up hurting herself. She has been in love with Chris since the first time she laid eyes on him at the age of seventeen. He is eight years older and he and the rest of the band "family", which includes Mia's sister are all aware of her crush. He tries not to encourage her. They get along great though with their mutual love of video games and the fact that they seem to understand each other. There are some really low moments for Mia in this book, but I don't want to say more and give away any spoilers. I have to say though that I think this was one of my favorite of Ms. McManus' books in this series. Can't wait to see if she has a book for Spade and will be looking forward to whatever is next!
**This book was provided by the author for an honest review.**
This is Mia's story. She is a troubled young girl who keeps making some really bad decisions that end up hurting herself. She has been in love with Chris since the first time she laid eyes on him at the age of seventeen. He is eight years older and he and the rest of the band "family", which includes Mia's sister are all aware of her crush. He tries not to encourage her. They get along great though with their mutual love of video games and the fact that they seem to understand each other. There are some really low moments for Mia in this book, but I don't want to say more and give away any spoilers. I have to say though that I think this was one of my favorite of Ms. McManus' books in this series. Can't wait to see if she has a book for Spade and will be looking forward to whatever is next!
**This book was provided by the author for an honest review.**
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Blurb:
Sometimes the sweetest love stories are the most broken . . .
Christian Cross is living the dream and staying out of trouble, but trouble is about to find him, because that's exactly what Mia is. She's impulsive, reckless and selfish. She's also completely hung up on the drummer who stole her heart with a smile. He's everything she wants and she's the last thing he needs. He tries to stay away from her, but when one bad decision after another sends Mia's life into an out of control spiral, he can't seem to stop himself from showing up to her rescue. He's desperate to save the broken girl beneath the party girl image from herself, but can he or will she drag him down with her?
Blurb:
Sometimes the sweetest love stories are the most broken . . .
Christian Cross is living the dream and staying out of trouble, but trouble is about to find him, because that's exactly what Mia is. She's impulsive, reckless and selfish. She's also completely hung up on the drummer who stole her heart with a smile. He's everything she wants and she's the last thing he needs. He tries to stay away from her, but when one bad decision after another sends Mia's life into an out of control spiral, he can't seem to stop himself from showing up to her rescue. He's desperate to save the broken girl beneath the party girl image from herself, but can he or will she drag him down with her?
June 6, 2015
**** I Love Story Time was gifted an ARC copy in exchange of an honest review ****
5 Stars!!!
I just want to start off by saying that I LOVE Grandma Helen!!! OMG!! She is so funny! I have loved everything about her throughout this series! I just can't believe how hilarious she is. I love when stories have crazy Grandmas in them. I feel like that totally brings character to the story! Some of the things that came out of her mouth had me cracking up! I loved when she was talking to Mia about Chris's girlfriend...
"Her eyes are too big for her face. And who wears a dress that dark to an engagement party? What is she a vampire? Just look at how dark that lipstick is that she's wearing too. There's something not right about her, and her eyes are so dark, unnaturally so. I'm going to throw holy water on her and see what happens."
And she does!! Turns out, she's not a vampire! LOL. That's just one example of how funny she is. She also seems to know everything that is going on. Even the things that seem to slip by other people. Seriously one of my most favorite character in this series!
As for Chris and Mia, I loved them as well. I have really enjoyed all the books from this series, but book 1, Finding Ever After, has been my favorite one so far. That is...until now!
We got to see Mia and Chris interact for the first time in, Chasing Ever After. Mia comes to stay with her sister for a little while because she is struggling with her family. Everyone can tell, including Chris, that Mia had a crush on him, but being that there is about 8 years difference, Chris knew he had to stay away. Now Mia is out of high school and is starting her first year in college. Mia's loving her freedom away from her family and finally is able to let loose. Only Mia finds herself missing her family when she realizes that no one has time for her. In order to fill the void, and numb the pain, Mia starts hanging out with the wrong crowd. From there, Mia's life starts to spin out of control. Mia seems to be drowning and can't seem to get a chance to catch her breath. In the meantime, Chris is there trying to get her out of her darkness. Chris knows that Mia is better than what she is doing to herself and wants to help her as much as he can. However, Mia is constantly fighting with him and doesn't know how to accept his help without falling more in love with him; Chris having a girlfriend doesn't make anything easier.
Then one night at a party, Mia stumbles into Kris. YES!!! Another Kris, but this is not Chris with a "C" this is Kris with a 'K'! And let me tell you! I loved Kris with a "K"!! I want a friend just like him! I would even take a little more than a "friend" like Kris! LOL. Anyways, when Kris first meets Mia he realizes right away that Mia shouldn't be left alone or drive while she's drunk so he helps her get home safely. From that point, Mia and Kris become great friends. Kris pushes Mia to be better and to start taking care of herself. Mia's life is finally on the right path. One night changes everything and she hits rock bottom.
Throughout this story Mia goes through so many trials that I don't even know who cried more. Me or her. Honestly, I'm not sure if I ever really stopped. This book brought out every emotion. I was so nervous for Mia and my heart hurt for her as well. I loved that Chris never gave up on her and when they first kissed... even I had butterflies! I loved Chris reaction to their first kiss...
"Sorry, I just needed a second to poll myself together before I got carried away. I didn't think kissing you would be like that."
"Like what?"
"Like losing myself in the sweetest melody and forgetting the rest of the world."
I think I just fell in love all over again! I'm so sad that this story is done, because all I can say is I. NEED. MORE!! I need more of everything. And I sure as heck need more of Mia and Chris. It has been about a week since I have read their story, and I still have a book hangover. I'm missing them so much. I catch myself wondering what their doing, and most importantly, how they are ! LOL. So, Mrs. Stephanie Hoffman McManus, I sure do hope you are writing your next story to this series as I'm writing this review, because I need more! I can't wait to start your next story!
~Juls
June 6, 2015
**** I Love Story Time was gifted an ARC copy in exchange of an honest review ****
5 Stars!!!
I just want to start off by saying that I LOVE Grandma Helen!!! OMG!! She is so funny! I have loved everything about her throughout this series! I just can't believe how hilarious she is. I love when stories have crazy Grandmas in them. I feel like that totally brings character to the story! Some of the things that came out of her mouth had me cracking up! I loved when she was talking to Mia about Chris's girlfriend...
"Her eyes are too big for her face. And who wears a dress that dark to an engagement party? What is she a vampire? Just look at how dark that lipstick is that she's wearing too. There's something not right about her, and her eyes are so dark, unnaturally so. I'm going to throw holy water on her and see what happens."
And she does!! Turns out, she's not a vampire! LOL. That's just one example of how funny she is. She also seems to know everything that is going on. Even the things that seem to slip by other people. Seriously one of my most favorite character in this series!
As for Chris and Mia, I loved them as well. I have really enjoyed all the books from this series, but book 1, Finding Ever After, has been my favorite one so far. That is...until now!
We got to see Mia and Chris interact for the first time in, Chasing Ever After. Mia comes to stay with her sister for a little while because she is struggling with her family. Everyone can tell, including Chris, that Mia had a crush on him, but being that there is about 8 years difference, Chris knew he had to stay away. Now Mia is out of high school and is starting her first year in college. Mia's loving her freedom away from her family and finally is able to let loose. Only Mia finds herself missing her family when she realizes that no one has time for her. In order to fill the void, and numb the pain, Mia starts hanging out with the wrong crowd. From there, Mia's life starts to spin out of control. Mia seems to be drowning and can't seem to get a chance to catch her breath. In the meantime, Chris is there trying to get her out of her darkness. Chris knows that Mia is better than what she is doing to herself and wants to help her as much as he can. However, Mia is constantly fighting with him and doesn't know how to accept his help without falling more in love with him; Chris having a girlfriend doesn't make anything easier.
Then one night at a party, Mia stumbles into Kris. YES!!! Another Kris, but this is not Chris with a "C" this is Kris with a 'K'! And let me tell you! I loved Kris with a "K"!! I want a friend just like him! I would even take a little more than a "friend" like Kris! LOL. Anyways, when Kris first meets Mia he realizes right away that Mia shouldn't be left alone or drive while she's drunk so he helps her get home safely. From that point, Mia and Kris become great friends. Kris pushes Mia to be better and to start taking care of herself. Mia's life is finally on the right path. One night changes everything and she hits rock bottom.
Throughout this story Mia goes through so many trials that I don't even know who cried more. Me or her. Honestly, I'm not sure if I ever really stopped. This book brought out every emotion. I was so nervous for Mia and my heart hurt for her as well. I loved that Chris never gave up on her and when they first kissed... even I had butterflies! I loved Chris reaction to their first kiss...
"Sorry, I just needed a second to poll myself together before I got carried away. I didn't think kissing you would be like that."
"Like what?"
"Like losing myself in the sweetest melody and forgetting the rest of the world."
I think I just fell in love all over again! I'm so sad that this story is done, because all I can say is I. NEED. MORE!! I need more of everything. And I sure as heck need more of Mia and Chris. It has been about a week since I have read their story, and I still have a book hangover. I'm missing them so much. I catch myself wondering what their doing, and most importantly, how they are ! LOL. So, Mrs. Stephanie Hoffman McManus, I sure do hope you are writing your next story to this series as I'm writing this review, because I need more! I can't wait to start your next story!
~Juls
November 8, 2015
Having read all of McManus’ books, I can truly say that Saving Ever After is truly her best work to date! She has managed to exceed all expectations delivering an absolutely fabulous book that contains such raw emotions and feeling like nothing else she’s ever written. To say I loved Mia and Chris’ story would be a complete understatement at best.
Saving Ever After is fourth book in the Ever After Series by McManus. This story focuses on Mia, Sadie’s younger sister and Ashes to Ember’s drummer Chris. Although this book is a part of a series, I can be read as a standalone. However, you’d be missing two unbelievable stories written by McManus that I know you’ll love.
This story was one emotionally raw read. Mia’s feelings of insecurity and self loathing literally leapt from the pages. It was hard not to feel her pain when reading this story. Her journey was long and hard as she battled her demons and fears. I found Mia incredibly relatable. I loved her character- the inner nerd yet unbelievably strong woman who was worthy of love even if she didn’t know it. Watching her and Chris fall more and more in love with each other and trying to fight off those feelings just increased my love of this story. All that tension and angst just made me fall more in love with these two characters and their road to each other.
The words of wisdom in the book! How is it Mcmanus is so young yet, so wise! There were several moments in this book that had me thinking. To me, that is when you know you have an absolutely amazing book. I found myself highlighting her words of wisdom as I read and because I understood those thoughts, I bonded more with these characters.
Although this book was emotionally raw, it was paired with some amazing light hearted funny moments. I don’t think I will ever get enough Grandma Helen. Hands down, she will be my favorite character for all time. I truly enjoy the love shared between the characters in this book. I love reading and watching their relationships with each other and others progress. I highly doubt I will ever be able to get enough of the Ever After series. I can’t wait for Spade!!!
Saving Ever After is fourth book in the Ever After Series by McManus. This story focuses on Mia, Sadie’s younger sister and Ashes to Ember’s drummer Chris. Although this book is a part of a series, I can be read as a standalone. However, you’d be missing two unbelievable stories written by McManus that I know you’ll love.
This story was one emotionally raw read. Mia’s feelings of insecurity and self loathing literally leapt from the pages. It was hard not to feel her pain when reading this story. Her journey was long and hard as she battled her demons and fears. I found Mia incredibly relatable. I loved her character- the inner nerd yet unbelievably strong woman who was worthy of love even if she didn’t know it. Watching her and Chris fall more and more in love with each other and trying to fight off those feelings just increased my love of this story. All that tension and angst just made me fall more in love with these two characters and their road to each other.
The words of wisdom in the book! How is it Mcmanus is so young yet, so wise! There were several moments in this book that had me thinking. To me, that is when you know you have an absolutely amazing book. I found myself highlighting her words of wisdom as I read and because I understood those thoughts, I bonded more with these characters.
Although this book was emotionally raw, it was paired with some amazing light hearted funny moments. I don’t think I will ever get enough Grandma Helen. Hands down, she will be my favorite character for all time. I truly enjoy the love shared between the characters in this book. I love reading and watching their relationships with each other and others progress. I highly doubt I will ever be able to get enough of the Ever After series. I can’t wait for Spade!!!
January 29, 2016
Heartbreaking and emotional…
I couldn’t wait to dive in to another book in this series and even though I knew every book so far was full of strong emotions I don’t know if I was ready for the wallop this story had. Mia was beginning her life anew as she started college in Boston, close to her older Sadie. Only eighteen, she had already gone through much in her young life as she struggled with family and life. She was eager to have a fresh start in a new city but demons have a way of following you wherever you go…
I ached for the painful and heart-wrenching struggle that Mia was continuing to fight. Family is complicated and that is never more apparent than in Mia’s, where blame and guilt seem to easily fall on her shoulders. Compound that with questionable friends, and decisions, each misstep seemed to be another step on an already shaky road. Chris was a beacon of light for Mia but also a source of added friction as their relationship was anything but straightforward. They each recognized something special in the other but age and circumstances did not help them figure things out easily.
Seeing her accept responsibility and do what she needed for herself, and Chris, showed her incredible strength of character. Any question how she made it through so long were quickly answered. Supportive friends and family were along for their journey and, as always, brought love and caring to the mix. I want to adopt Grandma Helen, by the way, we all need and deserve her in our lives!
Protect your heart because if this series hasn’t stolen it already, it will this time around!
“How do you do that? Make me feel so incredible with just a few simple words and a look.”
“It’s not me. I’m just showing you what I see. What I know. It’s you, and you are more. So much more.”
Sigh….
May 26, 2015
** Provided on behalf of the author for an honest review **
Mia.
She’s young and vibrant.
Only 18 years old.
But she has a past.
Her past has scarred her.
She’s been hurt, damaged.
She needs to leave and make a fresh start.
Leaving Seattle to attend school in Boston is her chance to change.
To find herself.
To leave her demons behind.
But will moving to Boston be what she was looking for?
Or will it end in tragedy?
On a self destruction path, Mia’s life spirals out of control.
The so called friends she makes.
The parties.
The booze.
The drugs.
It’s a lethal combination.
It’s what she needs to forget.
She needs to feel numb.
She just simply wants to forget the hurt, the pain, the anguish.
All Mia really wants is the one person in her world to notice her. To love her. To want her.
His name.
Chris.
Will Mia ever find herself again?
Will Chris be her saviour?
Will anything become of Mia and Chris, her one true love?
Or will her path of destruction be the ultimate ending to everything?
Saving Ever After is nothing short of an absolute fabulous read. From beginning to end we honestly couldn’t put it down. It’s sad, it’s crazy, it’s edgy, it’s heartbreaking. It’s an extremely powerful read. We were captivated by the emotions we could feel throughout it. We laughed and we cried. We hurt for Mia and her torment, but we also felt the hope and faith that she had and tried to fight for. Just all round a perfectly, well executed read.
Again Stephanie McManus has given us a highly raw and emotional read that should be on everyone’s TBR list.
For us a definite 5 star read.
Mia.
She’s young and vibrant.
Only 18 years old.
But she has a past.
Her past has scarred her.
She’s been hurt, damaged.
She needs to leave and make a fresh start.
Leaving Seattle to attend school in Boston is her chance to change.
To find herself.
To leave her demons behind.
But will moving to Boston be what she was looking for?
Or will it end in tragedy?
On a self destruction path, Mia’s life spirals out of control.
The so called friends she makes.
The parties.
The booze.
The drugs.
It’s a lethal combination.
It’s what she needs to forget.
She needs to feel numb.
She just simply wants to forget the hurt, the pain, the anguish.
All Mia really wants is the one person in her world to notice her. To love her. To want her.
His name.
Chris.
Will Mia ever find herself again?
Will Chris be her saviour?
Will anything become of Mia and Chris, her one true love?
Or will her path of destruction be the ultimate ending to everything?
Saving Ever After is nothing short of an absolute fabulous read. From beginning to end we honestly couldn’t put it down. It’s sad, it’s crazy, it’s edgy, it’s heartbreaking. It’s an extremely powerful read. We were captivated by the emotions we could feel throughout it. We laughed and we cried. We hurt for Mia and her torment, but we also felt the hope and faith that she had and tried to fight for. Just all round a perfectly, well executed read.
Again Stephanie McManus has given us a highly raw and emotional read that should be on everyone’s TBR list.
For us a definite 5 star read.
June 27, 2015
I received a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review
Book 4 in the Ever After series can be read as a standalone but so much better in order.
Chris is one of the few members of the band that doesn't have a problem with relationships. He hasn't found the one he wants to spend his life with. After watching his parents divorce after his mother cheated. He wants to the one that will last a lifetime. When Chris met Mia for the first time he knew she had a crush on him. He liked her but she was to young and besides being Sadie's sister. he never encouraged her. When Mia decides to go to collage in Boston to be near Sadie and to escape her home life. No body know just how much she is actually struggling. Chris can't stop himself from wanting to rescue her. He sees Mia for who she actually is not what she shows the world.
What a emotional rollercoaster. Mia has so many issues from her home life. She doesn't know what to do. She keeps it bottled up inside. At times you think she is just a spoiled rich brat but there is so much more to her. Chris finds himself feeling more and more for Mia along the way. yet he is afraid to take that first step. But when Mia hits rock bottom will he be enough in the end. You laugh, you cry and run the total gauntlet of emotions up until the last page. You catch up with the rest of the characters and see where they are in their life.
Book 4 in the Ever After series can be read as a standalone but so much better in order.
Chris is one of the few members of the band that doesn't have a problem with relationships. He hasn't found the one he wants to spend his life with. After watching his parents divorce after his mother cheated. He wants to the one that will last a lifetime. When Chris met Mia for the first time he knew she had a crush on him. He liked her but she was to young and besides being Sadie's sister. he never encouraged her. When Mia decides to go to collage in Boston to be near Sadie and to escape her home life. No body know just how much she is actually struggling. Chris can't stop himself from wanting to rescue her. He sees Mia for who she actually is not what she shows the world.
What a emotional rollercoaster. Mia has so many issues from her home life. She doesn't know what to do. She keeps it bottled up inside. At times you think she is just a spoiled rich brat but there is so much more to her. Chris finds himself feeling more and more for Mia along the way. yet he is afraid to take that first step. But when Mia hits rock bottom will he be enough in the end. You laugh, you cry and run the total gauntlet of emotions up until the last page. You catch up with the rest of the characters and see where they are in their life.
October 5, 2015
OMG!!!!
5 stars!!
Here I am on book 4 and I love them all but this one has just blown me away! There is just so much more raw emotion in this book!I cried my eyes out!
Book 4 is the story Mia and Chris. Mia is considerable younger than Chris and a complete train wreck. She has a ton of issues and no real support system in her eyes which leads to more problems. We first meet Mia in book 2. She is Sadie's baby sister. In book 2 Mia was in a car accident where drugs and alcohol were involved book 4 finds here in just about the same mess.
Chris is in a relationship with Katrina although at this point it starts feeling forced and he finds his self more drawn to Mia. Mia who plays and wins at video games. Mia who watches the walking Dead. Mia who sneaks in to Chris' room at night and paints his toes bright pink!
The story has a HEA but its dark until it gets there.
its not all dark though because in between the drug and alcohol abuse we have...bedazzeled stunn guns and grandma clad Catwomen.....and holy water in flask??? lol yes i cried at the emotion in this book but i also laughed a lot! I will be recommending this series to everyone...This book is a must read .....Stephanie has become a one click must for me!
5 stars!!
Here I am on book 4 and I love them all but this one has just blown me away! There is just so much more raw emotion in this book!I cried my eyes out!
Book 4 is the story Mia and Chris. Mia is considerable younger than Chris and a complete train wreck. She has a ton of issues and no real support system in her eyes which leads to more problems. We first meet Mia in book 2. She is Sadie's baby sister. In book 2 Mia was in a car accident where drugs and alcohol were involved book 4 finds here in just about the same mess.
Chris is in a relationship with Katrina although at this point it starts feeling forced and he finds his self more drawn to Mia. Mia who plays and wins at video games. Mia who watches the walking Dead. Mia who sneaks in to Chris' room at night and paints his toes bright pink!
The story has a HEA but its dark until it gets there.
its not all dark though because in between the drug and alcohol abuse we have...bedazzeled stunn guns and grandma clad Catwomen.....and holy water in flask??? lol yes i cried at the emotion in this book but i also laughed a lot! I will be recommending this series to everyone...This book is a must read .....Stephanie has become a one click must for me!
July 20, 2015
Wow I love every book you've wrote Stephanie..I once met a guy like Chris and I was once like Mia..well at the end I've learned my mistakes and will makes us a better person.. You're right,before you gives out all you've got we need to love ourselves more and also space gives more time to think if it's really the right thing to do or not and maybe in time you'll get what you truly deserve..finished all your books in 5days so I'm looking forward to your next book..Spade's story
September 15, 2015
Saving Ever After (Book 3) tells the story of Chris and Mia! Chris is the drummer of Ashes and Embers. Mia is the younger sister of Sadie and a new resident of Boston. Their story is both heartbreaking and heartwarming! I may advice a tissue or two. Such a great new chapter in the Ever After series with some very loveable characters! Pick up this book and join in on their ride.
December 23, 2015
SNS Rating: 4.5
~~~~~~~~~~Dee's ★★★★★ Review~~~~~~~~~~
The story of Chris and Mia is a roller coaster of emotions. Lia was a lost soul for years full of self hate, insecurities, fears and lack of a sense of self worth. A dysfunctional family life plus a distorted self image made her a prime candidate for addictions and a downward spiral. Her struggles to cope, to self medicate, to fight to use her Will to overcome her unbearable pain strikes a much too real chord for a lot of people in our world today. Observing her journey sheds light on why certain choices were made and how she got trapped by disabling people and situations. Chris also had a tough journey in realizing his own truth and learning of his natural instincts to "save" Lia, to "fix" her problems but though his intentions were honorable, many times his efforts only complicated matters more. While it was difficult at times to see the self destructive path Lia walked, one hoped to see her emerge out of the darkness victorious. Excellent story, well crafted!
~~~~~~~~~~Sharlene's ★★★★ Review~~~~~~~~~~
If you have read any of the other 3 books in this series, then you are well aware of Mia and Chris. If you haven't read the other books, I recommend going back to read them first. It's not an absolute necessity, but will make this book much more enjoyable and understandable. Mia is trouble in the making and Chris is there to help pick up the pieces sometimes. There is a lot going on with Mia. She is not just your spoiled rich kid causing trouble. She obviously has some issues but will she be able to work through them? Will Chris still be there if she does? All the characters in this are well developed but the author really delves into Mia's character with this one. The scenery descriptions are excellent as well. There are some sex scenes but nothing too hot to handle.
This can be read as a stand alone but would be better enhanced after reading the other 3 books in this series. There is an HEA.
~~~~~~~~~~Dee's ★★★★★ Review~~~~~~~~~~
The story of Chris and Mia is a roller coaster of emotions. Lia was a lost soul for years full of self hate, insecurities, fears and lack of a sense of self worth. A dysfunctional family life plus a distorted self image made her a prime candidate for addictions and a downward spiral. Her struggles to cope, to self medicate, to fight to use her Will to overcome her unbearable pain strikes a much too real chord for a lot of people in our world today. Observing her journey sheds light on why certain choices were made and how she got trapped by disabling people and situations. Chris also had a tough journey in realizing his own truth and learning of his natural instincts to "save" Lia, to "fix" her problems but though his intentions were honorable, many times his efforts only complicated matters more. While it was difficult at times to see the self destructive path Lia walked, one hoped to see her emerge out of the darkness victorious. Excellent story, well crafted!
~~~~~~~~~~Sharlene's ★★★★ Review~~~~~~~~~~
If you have read any of the other 3 books in this series, then you are well aware of Mia and Chris. If you haven't read the other books, I recommend going back to read them first. It's not an absolute necessity, but will make this book much more enjoyable and understandable. Mia is trouble in the making and Chris is there to help pick up the pieces sometimes. There is a lot going on with Mia. She is not just your spoiled rich kid causing trouble. She obviously has some issues but will she be able to work through them? Will Chris still be there if she does? All the characters in this are well developed but the author really delves into Mia's character with this one. The scenery descriptions are excellent as well. There are some sex scenes but nothing too hot to handle.
This can be read as a stand alone but would be better enhanced after reading the other 3 books in this series. There is an HEA.
June 21, 2015
Reviewed on Behalf of Give Me Books
Wow! This series is just so good! I can’t get enough of these sexy rockstars of Ashes and Embers and their women.
Saving Ever After is the fourth book in this series and is the story of Chris, the drummer, and Mia, Sadie’s younger sister. This one was the most emotional for me so far! Mia is young and insecure. She has so much dragging her down and it is a long, hard journey to watch her work through her demons.
“Just once, I wanted to be enough for someone to stay.”
Chris can’t deny his attraction to Mia and is the only one who is truly able to see Mia for who she is. And while he wants to help her, he has his own issues to work through.
“Why was she so broken? Why did I want to be the one to help her so badly?”
I love when Mia is able to be herself and let her inner-geek come out! She is such a strong, beautiful, amazing person who had to learn to be okay with her she is. I cried a lot through her struggles, but I was also able to relate to her in many ways. And Chris was such a good guy. He had me swooning many times when he saved Mia from disaster.
“Do you see me?” I whispered. “I see you. Always have. Even when I tried not to.”
I LOVE how much we get to see the rest of the band and continue to watch their families grow. And Grandma Helen. I think she is my favorite character – that damn bedazzled stun gun had me laughing like crazy. I absolutely adored this story and I can’t wait to watch Spade fall in love! (4.5 stars)
Wow! This series is just so good! I can’t get enough of these sexy rockstars of Ashes and Embers and their women.
Saving Ever After is the fourth book in this series and is the story of Chris, the drummer, and Mia, Sadie’s younger sister. This one was the most emotional for me so far! Mia is young and insecure. She has so much dragging her down and it is a long, hard journey to watch her work through her demons.
“Just once, I wanted to be enough for someone to stay.”
Chris can’t deny his attraction to Mia and is the only one who is truly able to see Mia for who she is. And while he wants to help her, he has his own issues to work through.
“Why was she so broken? Why did I want to be the one to help her so badly?”
I love when Mia is able to be herself and let her inner-geek come out! She is such a strong, beautiful, amazing person who had to learn to be okay with her she is. I cried a lot through her struggles, but I was also able to relate to her in many ways. And Chris was such a good guy. He had me swooning many times when he saved Mia from disaster.
“Do you see me?” I whispered. “I see you. Always have. Even when I tried not to.”
I LOVE how much we get to see the rest of the band and continue to watch their families grow. And Grandma Helen. I think she is my favorite character – that damn bedazzled stun gun had me laughing like crazy. I absolutely adored this story and I can’t wait to watch Spade fall in love! (4.5 stars)
May 25, 2016
Copy given for honest review.
This series is intense, gripping, full of angst and drama. Its well written and this one in particular well researched, the topics covered are very deep and quite common. Drugs, alcohol and depression. Then there's loneliness and sexual abuse. There are a few lighter moments and laughs, a few babies along the way. This group of friends are closer than most families, they support each other through highs and lows, share a deep love and understanding. Mia is seriously mixed up, mostly because of her mother and father, mainly the former. Sadie does her best to make up for their shabby treatment but some of it is now so deep Mia doesn't even realise how bad it is, Chris has always had strong feelings for her and also tries to help. This series has cost me many tears while reading, in this one the loneliness and not feeling good enough hit close to home with me. The deep desperation as you sink low, feeling completely out of control. Others around not realising just how bad things are getting until the crash happens, some are lucky enough to get help before you get to that point, others not so. So much going on in this story, Chris as well has his issues the fact that Mia is a lot younger. He fights his feelings thinking he is doing right by her and by his girlfriend, he hates how he felt when his parents split up. I think in this day and age there are parts of this story that many would understand and empathise with. A great book and addition to the series, this author hasn't once disappointed me and I have no hesitation recommending this series.
This series is intense, gripping, full of angst and drama. Its well written and this one in particular well researched, the topics covered are very deep and quite common. Drugs, alcohol and depression. Then there's loneliness and sexual abuse. There are a few lighter moments and laughs, a few babies along the way. This group of friends are closer than most families, they support each other through highs and lows, share a deep love and understanding. Mia is seriously mixed up, mostly because of her mother and father, mainly the former. Sadie does her best to make up for their shabby treatment but some of it is now so deep Mia doesn't even realise how bad it is, Chris has always had strong feelings for her and also tries to help. This series has cost me many tears while reading, in this one the loneliness and not feeling good enough hit close to home with me. The deep desperation as you sink low, feeling completely out of control. Others around not realising just how bad things are getting until the crash happens, some are lucky enough to get help before you get to that point, others not so. So much going on in this story, Chris as well has his issues the fact that Mia is a lot younger. He fights his feelings thinking he is doing right by her and by his girlfriend, he hates how he felt when his parents split up. I think in this day and age there are parts of this story that many would understand and empathise with. A great book and addition to the series, this author hasn't once disappointed me and I have no hesitation recommending this series.
July 2, 2016
Another must read
Wow...just wow! Stephanie has once again rendered me speechless with her amazing story. I'm sure everyone has had a time of struggle (whether it's with addiction, fear of the unknown, or loss of someone, etc), but this story shows that there are some who have a harder time with those struggles than others. I've been in Mia's shoes, I've been in Chris's shoes watching from the sidelines as someone I loved went through these things. Watching Chris come to the realization that things with Katrina wasn't what he thought they were and wasn't what he needed, or really even wanted, was heart breaking. You can see and feel the difference in how he was with Katrina vs Mia, and how much he connected with Mia even though he didn't want to. These two were definitely a match made in heaven but wondering if she was going to make it, if she was strong enough to pull herself out of the fog was tearjerking. I worried that no one would catch her before she fell completely apart. Again, there are some stories that have to end in sadness and sorrow, I'm just thankful that this isn't one of them. Congrats Stephanie in another amazing book. Can't wait for spades book, I know he will be one that fights til the end.
Wow...just wow! Stephanie has once again rendered me speechless with her amazing story. I'm sure everyone has had a time of struggle (whether it's with addiction, fear of the unknown, or loss of someone, etc), but this story shows that there are some who have a harder time with those struggles than others. I've been in Mia's shoes, I've been in Chris's shoes watching from the sidelines as someone I loved went through these things. Watching Chris come to the realization that things with Katrina wasn't what he thought they were and wasn't what he needed, or really even wanted, was heart breaking. You can see and feel the difference in how he was with Katrina vs Mia, and how much he connected with Mia even though he didn't want to. These two were definitely a match made in heaven but wondering if she was going to make it, if she was strong enough to pull herself out of the fog was tearjerking. I worried that no one would catch her before she fell completely apart. Again, there are some stories that have to end in sadness and sorrow, I'm just thankful that this isn't one of them. Congrats Stephanie in another amazing book. Can't wait for spades book, I know he will be one that fights til the end.
July 19, 2015
Okay I love this book! The story and plot was amazing however what I didn't understand or like was how during Mia's fall she focuses more on blaming herself which I understood but I don't know I felt like if it was me going through that stuff the rape would've been the thing to get to me the most I wish they would've done more in the story regarding the rape I feel like it would've given the story a little bit more feel to it
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 19, 2015
Mia is a mess with parents that don't care for her or her sisters. after meeting Chris she falls for him but Chris is in a relationship with Katrina and can't date a teenager after Mia attending college and trying to prove everyone she's grown up she fails again. this is the couple that I love more.
June 10, 2015
Will have a review up under Summers Book Blog.....
July 23, 2015
Loved!!
May 23, 2016
I loved Chris and Mia's story! Awesome job!
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