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Love Seekers #1
Exposed
Your twenties are supposed to be some of the best, and certainly the most fun of your life, but for Emma Taylor, turning twenty-five brought her world crashing down around her. Four years after being diagnosed with debilitating disease, her love life is nonexistent. A series of failed blind dates - courtesy of her friends - has left her depressed and defeated. Intent on turning to her best friend for a vent session, Emma sends off a rapid fire instant message, except her message ends up in someone else's inbox. The inbox of hot Navy man, Bryan Sampson. Her friend Mel’s best friend, and Emma's secret crush.
Bryan Sampson has only met Emma Taylor one time during a night of karaoke while on leave, but in one night, she managed to make an impression. She seemed timid and uncomfortable in her own skin, but underneath it all, he saw how strong she had to be in order to cope with her disease. So when he her message caught his eye, he opened it without a second thought, and realizes almost immediately it wasn’t intended for him. Now that he’s read it though, he can’t turn his back on her and feels duty bound to help the cause. Besides what else is he supposed to do with his free time? He vows he will help her find love never suspecting that the more he talked to her, the more he would find out about himself…the more he would think about her.
Emma is determined to face her demons thanks to Bryan's help, but little by little she begins falling harder for the one person who isn't ashamed of her or her disease. Can she put her heart on the line and take the risk? Can she convince Bryan that love, her love, is worth it?
Sometimes all it takes is one person to expose the person within.
Bryan Sampson has only met Emma Taylor one time during a night of karaoke while on leave, but in one night, she managed to make an impression. She seemed timid and uncomfortable in her own skin, but underneath it all, he saw how strong she had to be in order to cope with her disease. So when he her message caught his eye, he opened it without a second thought, and realizes almost immediately it wasn’t intended for him. Now that he’s read it though, he can’t turn his back on her and feels duty bound to help the cause. Besides what else is he supposed to do with his free time? He vows he will help her find love never suspecting that the more he talked to her, the more he would find out about himself…the more he would think about her.
Emma is determined to face her demons thanks to Bryan's help, but little by little she begins falling harder for the one person who isn't ashamed of her or her disease. Can she put her heart on the line and take the risk? Can she convince Bryan that love, her love, is worth it?
Sometimes all it takes is one person to expose the person within.
441 pages, Kindle Edition
First published September 6, 2016
40 people are currently reading
125 people want to read
About the author
Maria Vickers
46 books395 followersMaria Vickers is a bestselling and award-winning author who currently resides in St. Louis, MO with her pug, Spencer Tracy. She has always had a passion for writing and after she became disabled in 2010, she decided to use writing as her escape. Life is about what you make of it, you have to live it to the fullest no matter the circumstances.
From a young age, she has always loved books and even dreamed of being an author when she was younger. Growing up in the Navy, she used to weave tales for her siblings and her friends about anything and everything. And when she wasn't creating her own stories, she had a book in her hand. They transported her to another world. She hopes that her readers will have the same experience when reading her stories, and that, in some way, they can relate to her characters.
Getting sick changed her life forever, but it also opened doors for her that she thought would always be out of reach.
From a young age, she has always loved books and even dreamed of being an author when she was younger. Growing up in the Navy, she used to weave tales for her siblings and her friends about anything and everything. And when she wasn't creating her own stories, she had a book in her hand. They transported her to another world. She hopes that her readers will have the same experience when reading her stories, and that, in some way, they can relate to her characters.
Getting sick changed her life forever, but it also opened doors for her that she thought would always be out of reach.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 48 reviews
March 24, 2017
Myasthenia graves is a chronic autoimmune neuromuscular disease characterized by varying degrees of weakness of the skeletal (voluntary) muscles of the body.
One day Emma Taylor was having the time of her life, and the next... her world was crashing down. Four years after being diagnosed with a debilitating disease, her love life is nonexistent. In a moment of total depression, Emma sent an instant message to her best friend, except her message ended up in someone's else inbox.
Bryan Sampson, hot Navy man. Having a friend in common, Bryan & Emma has only met one time, but in one night, she managed to make an impression. So when he saw her message, he opened it without a second thought, just to realize that it wasn't intended for him. But now that he has read it, he has made his mission to help her find love.
Who would have thought that an instant message meant to be just a vent session between friends would end up being the one that would change their lives forever.
Emma Taylor isn't your average character, life had thrown her some curveballs, but somehow, she remained standing. Living every day with a disability that forces her to rely on the use of a cane on a good day, a walker on a bad day, or being unable to get out of bed other days, was not easy. And even when she felt like her disease had stolen her freedom, she had found ways to adapt and deal with her new surroundings, but like most women she wanted love. Someone who will look at her beyond the cane or the walker, someone who sees her and not her illness.
Bryan Sampson didn't do relationships. His only interests were flying some planes, had fun, and lived his life to the fullest. Emma was just a work for him. He felt like helping her was the right thing to do but he never suspected that the more he talked to her, the more he found himself thinking about her.
The slow burn relationship between Bryan & Emma was something I really appreciate at the beginning, it was different, but many chapters later, I found myself so frustrated, to the point of wanting to smash my kindle against the wall.
I just wanted them to meet, admit their feelings for each other and suck their faces. In that order. But well, it took them some time and even if I was getting desperate, at the end it was worth it.
Those last chapters...
But... the repetitive theme of Emma's illness, resulted a little bit annoying for me and I think that it took away a lot of attention from the main plot and got to slow down the pace of the story.
With an unconventional storyline Exposed is a tale of love, bravery and resilience, Emma & Bryan's romance showed me one more time that love has the power to conquer it all. That embracing our own fears and fighting for what we want in life might prove to be the only way to defeat our demons and found our happily ever after.
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March 13, 2017
GOTTA LOVE MESSENGER!
This is the first book I have read by Maria Vickers and it won't be my last. This book took you on a journey of a young woman's struggle with the cards she was dealt in life and how she over comes them with the help of a tall sexy Navy man. Check this book out it a great read!
This is the first book I have read by Maria Vickers and it won't be my last. This book took you on a journey of a young woman's struggle with the cards she was dealt in life and how she over comes them with the help of a tall sexy Navy man. Check this book out it a great read!
March 2, 2017
This story is so many things - an awakening, a journey, an understanding, an inspiration and a love story. 'Exposed' follows Emma - a bright, funny and very capable young lady who just happens to suffer from a neuro-muscular disease, and Bryan - a navy pilot, as they negotiate the very tricky business of falling in love.
Emma, after yet another frustrating date, pings a disgruntled instant message to her friend - Mel, only to find she has mistakenly sent it to Bryan - said friend's, best friend and (to make matters worse) the man for whom Emma harbours a secret crush. Bryan, who has actually met Emma once before and therefore knows of her disease, decides she needs his help to discover someone who will love her for herself and they start chatting online.
It seems like a great idea, but Emma is painfully aware that most men - in fact most people - treat her with impatience and often outright disdain. Emma does not let her illness hold her back, but has come to recognise that she has limitations. Thus, finding someone who will love her enough not only to see beyond her limitations and through the illness to the person she is, but also loving enough to be there for her through better and worse would be nothing short of miraculous. Nonetheless, Bryan is determined - and so begins his awakening.
This isn't an easy story - it is despair, courage, grief, hope, trust, anguish, humour, faith, passion and most of all love - well it is a love story! That Maria drew on her own experiences, makes it all the more poignant. I was so vested in this couple - I desperately wanted Bryan to realise what he might lose if he didn't listen to his heart and what Emma might lose if she didn't trust hers.
This is a beautifully crafted story with a great cast of characters and written in a lively style. A novel based around such a debilitating illness risks becoming mired in self pity - not this story. It flows easily and although there are some harsh moments within the book, they are lifted by the banter and wit among the main characters and Emma's great attitude to life! This book shredded my heart but then put it back together in such a positive way! A roller-coaster of a story, but so worth the ride! Highly recommended!
Emma, after yet another frustrating date, pings a disgruntled instant message to her friend - Mel, only to find she has mistakenly sent it to Bryan - said friend's, best friend and (to make matters worse) the man for whom Emma harbours a secret crush. Bryan, who has actually met Emma once before and therefore knows of her disease, decides she needs his help to discover someone who will love her for herself and they start chatting online.
It seems like a great idea, but Emma is painfully aware that most men - in fact most people - treat her with impatience and often outright disdain. Emma does not let her illness hold her back, but has come to recognise that she has limitations. Thus, finding someone who will love her enough not only to see beyond her limitations and through the illness to the person she is, but also loving enough to be there for her through better and worse would be nothing short of miraculous. Nonetheless, Bryan is determined - and so begins his awakening.
This isn't an easy story - it is despair, courage, grief, hope, trust, anguish, humour, faith, passion and most of all love - well it is a love story! That Maria drew on her own experiences, makes it all the more poignant. I was so vested in this couple - I desperately wanted Bryan to realise what he might lose if he didn't listen to his heart and what Emma might lose if she didn't trust hers.
This is a beautifully crafted story with a great cast of characters and written in a lively style. A novel based around such a debilitating illness risks becoming mired in self pity - not this story. It flows easily and although there are some harsh moments within the book, they are lifted by the banter and wit among the main characters and Emma's great attitude to life! This book shredded my heart but then put it back together in such a positive way! A roller-coaster of a story, but so worth the ride! Highly recommended!
September 17, 2016
Josie's Review
Just Wow! Exposed could not have come at a more perfect moment. I want to thank the author for writing such an amazing and poignant novel. Exposed left me open, vulnerable and had me feeling all kinds of emotions. I was sad, angry, hurt, happy, hopeful and elated, all with just one book. This book is special and the underlining meaning behind the words will hit home. I love when authors give dual POV’S but for this book and the message it delivered couldn’t have been expressed without it. I’m not going to say much and give anything away, because to experience the raw emotions you need to go in blind, I’m going to tell you what made give 5 Stars.
Dating and finding the right someone is hard but for Emma it’s even harder. Emma is a beautiful character both on the inside and out, but was looked down on. This woman was unstoppable, she was strong and never gave up. Emma gets angry after another date goes wrong and accidentally messages Bryan. Bryan is the opposite of Emma, a Navy man always moving from 1 port to the next as with the women in his life. He’s not looking for a commitment but something about Emma has him seeking her out. One mistaken message brings these 2 characters together and what happens neither expected.
The relationship between Bryan and Emma was natural and felt real. It was a friendship that slowly became more. There was no way for me not to connect on a personal level with the characters. I loved how each conversation became more each time, more in depth and how they both open up to one another. They expressed their fears, dreams, aspirations and desire for life. Bryan was to die for, he protects all those dear to his heart. When he sees the injustice Emma experiences first hand he starts to take a closer look at himself. Bryan goes out of his way to give Emma the things she wants and show her that she can do anything she wants in life and he’d be there every step of the way. Emma goes through some horrible and cruel moments and it broke me, I just wanted to reach into my Kindle and throat punch a couple of people. Emma is quiet, shy and vulnerable but with Bryan’s friendship she becomes stronger. Watching and seeing how Bryan and Emma fall for each other was so refreshing and enjoyable. Bryan was Emma’s knight in shining armor and Emma was the princess who stole his heart. Together there was nothing they wouldn’t do for the other.
There were some ugly crying moments in this book, all was not sunshine in rainbows. This book will make you stop and take a good look in the mirror. The subject matter and the main topic in this book might be hard for some but it needed to be written and left out there. I applaud the author for writing a book that was well written and not a fairytale love story, because let’s face it the real world is anything but. I walked away with one important piece of wisdom never ever judge a book by its cover, there is more behind that cover.
September 8, 2016
4.5 stars
"The worst thing about a disability is that people see it before they see you." ~Easter Seals
When I read the blurb for this book, I was unsure of what to expect, perhaps something like a vegetarian trying to explain the taste of meat. Lol. After reading the book, if this author isn't personally disabled or very close to someone that is, I'd be utterly shocked. The author wrote a beautifully complex book about a woman who just happens to be disabled and finding love that meets you right where you are.
In a world of constant body-shaming, imagine having to drag around a walker. Talk about a target on your back. That's the reality for our leading lady here. Emma has an incurable and crippling disease. It's the first thing people see and instant judgements begin. She's used to being ignored, treated like a child, or worse, bring on the receiving end of hurtful comments and public shaming. The pain of people's reaction rival the pain of being alone and she's desperately afraid she'll never find love. In spite of all that she's up against, she's bravely attempting to date...insert shudder here. After a wildly unsuccessful first date, (where honestly, she should've junk punched the guy so as to save the world from any spawn he might produce), she rushes home to vent to her best friend...only she accidentally selects someone else's name.
She begins an unlikely friendship with Brian, a man of utter physical perfection, an Adonis. He believes that Emma suffers from a serious lack of confidence and decides to help her find the "perfect man for her..." He believes it will be an easy task, since she's beautiful, funny, etc but he's challenged when he learns exactly how hard it is to find a man who sees the woman instead of the disability. Even though, at times, I became frustrated with Brian for his complete naivete, he has a great heart. During his journey with Emma, he learns a lot about the world and a lot about himself.
I loved that this book gives a very insightful view of much of what the disabled community experiences and challenges the thinking of a world unable to see past those disabilities. As a person who works closely with the disabled community and having been married to a person in a wheelchair, I appreciate the author's bravery and commitment to the cause and her wonderful characters.
Pick up this book today! You won't regret it! It's not just about finding love but about learning to love yourself. It's more than a romance, it could change the way you see yourself and others! Beautifully done, Ms. Vickers.
AnnMarie - Alphas Do It Better Book Blog
"The worst thing about a disability is that people see it before they see you." ~Easter Seals
When I read the blurb for this book, I was unsure of what to expect, perhaps something like a vegetarian trying to explain the taste of meat. Lol. After reading the book, if this author isn't personally disabled or very close to someone that is, I'd be utterly shocked. The author wrote a beautifully complex book about a woman who just happens to be disabled and finding love that meets you right where you are.
In a world of constant body-shaming, imagine having to drag around a walker. Talk about a target on your back. That's the reality for our leading lady here. Emma has an incurable and crippling disease. It's the first thing people see and instant judgements begin. She's used to being ignored, treated like a child, or worse, bring on the receiving end of hurtful comments and public shaming. The pain of people's reaction rival the pain of being alone and she's desperately afraid she'll never find love. In spite of all that she's up against, she's bravely attempting to date...insert shudder here. After a wildly unsuccessful first date, (where honestly, she should've junk punched the guy so as to save the world from any spawn he might produce), she rushes home to vent to her best friend...only she accidentally selects someone else's name.
She begins an unlikely friendship with Brian, a man of utter physical perfection, an Adonis. He believes that Emma suffers from a serious lack of confidence and decides to help her find the "perfect man for her..." He believes it will be an easy task, since she's beautiful, funny, etc but he's challenged when he learns exactly how hard it is to find a man who sees the woman instead of the disability. Even though, at times, I became frustrated with Brian for his complete naivete, he has a great heart. During his journey with Emma, he learns a lot about the world and a lot about himself.
I loved that this book gives a very insightful view of much of what the disabled community experiences and challenges the thinking of a world unable to see past those disabilities. As a person who works closely with the disabled community and having been married to a person in a wheelchair, I appreciate the author's bravery and commitment to the cause and her wonderful characters.
Pick up this book today! You won't regret it! It's not just about finding love but about learning to love yourself. It's more than a romance, it could change the way you see yourself and others! Beautifully done, Ms. Vickers.
AnnMarie - Alphas Do It Better Book Blog
September 8, 2016
Finding Love SUCKS, especially when you've a medical condition that requires a cane or a walker.
That's Emma's take on it anyways. After a crappy blind dating fiasco, she's had it. She gets on FaceSpace to message her bff about her less than stellar evening and accidently messages a friend of a friend who happens to be a hot guy...only problem? He lives clear across the country.
What starts out as a get it off your chest vent ends up an almost daily habit neither wants to break.
This was a good book. It's got a great message that a lot of us don't quite understand. Hell, most of us don't even think about it. The characters are fun, interesting and you can laugh out loud one minute and be wiping away those stray tears the next. I enjoyed this read, it kept me entertained, but...in my very honest opinion it was a tad long. There were times I completely lost interest because it was a lot of repetitive poor me. One or two times makes a statement, more than that, I tend to skim whole pages at a time looking for something different...BUT, I did have an arc and it clearly stated that there could be errors, editing issues and that it's NOT the final product...so I don't know for sure what was changed. All in all, I enjoyed it, because it was different. Not the same old same old story line. A touching love story with a great message. It makes you think and hopefully makes you change your outlook and how you see those that aren't as able bodied as you.
4 Stars
That's Emma's take on it anyways. After a crappy blind dating fiasco, she's had it. She gets on FaceSpace to message her bff about her less than stellar evening and accidently messages a friend of a friend who happens to be a hot guy...only problem? He lives clear across the country.
What starts out as a get it off your chest vent ends up an almost daily habit neither wants to break.
This was a good book. It's got a great message that a lot of us don't quite understand. Hell, most of us don't even think about it. The characters are fun, interesting and you can laugh out loud one minute and be wiping away those stray tears the next. I enjoyed this read, it kept me entertained, but...in my very honest opinion it was a tad long. There were times I completely lost interest because it was a lot of repetitive poor me. One or two times makes a statement, more than that, I tend to skim whole pages at a time looking for something different...BUT, I did have an arc and it clearly stated that there could be errors, editing issues and that it's NOT the final product...so I don't know for sure what was changed. All in all, I enjoyed it, because it was different. Not the same old same old story line. A touching love story with a great message. It makes you think and hopefully makes you change your outlook and how you see those that aren't as able bodied as you.
4 Stars
September 7, 2016
Exposed is the first book in the Love Seekers Series. I would give this book a 4 stars and recommend to others. This book is full of emotional situations that lead a pathway for the main heroine Emma in her journey to find love. Maria certainly knows and understands the struggles of a person with a neuro muscular disease and it was portrayed perfectly in this book. I did find this story a little longer than I expected and maybe a tad repetitive in parts but in the end I felt I understood MG a lot more because of this. This story was a soft loving romance and not overly sexual which I appreciated, so in all it was a beautiful journey and I hope to see more from these characters in the near future.
Emma struggles with a very serious disease that diffused her neurological system and her immune system, she is struggling with daily living but has decided to try the dating scene and see what happens... What she didn't imagine was having the worst date ever and complaining to her friend on social media to find she had messaged someone else.. not just anyone but Bryan an acquaintance.. a very hot acquaintance...
Bryan is a playboy of sorts and doesn't ever see himself settling down, his job keeps him busy and he feels truly satisfied with his life... that is until a message pops up from a very disgruntled Emma... he doesn't realize how responding to that message with send his life into a whirlwind roller coaster...
Get to one clicking to find out what happens in this story. Thank you Maria Vickers for a beautiful story and sharing some of your own struggles that no one completely understands unless they have been in your shoes, I have found a whole new respect for MG/Neuro muscular disorder sufferers because of you. I know this is only your second book but I can see you growing as author and look forward to reading much more in the future!
Emma struggles with a very serious disease that diffused her neurological system and her immune system, she is struggling with daily living but has decided to try the dating scene and see what happens... What she didn't imagine was having the worst date ever and complaining to her friend on social media to find she had messaged someone else.. not just anyone but Bryan an acquaintance.. a very hot acquaintance...
Bryan is a playboy of sorts and doesn't ever see himself settling down, his job keeps him busy and he feels truly satisfied with his life... that is until a message pops up from a very disgruntled Emma... he doesn't realize how responding to that message with send his life into a whirlwind roller coaster...
Get to one clicking to find out what happens in this story. Thank you Maria Vickers for a beautiful story and sharing some of your own struggles that no one completely understands unless they have been in your shoes, I have found a whole new respect for MG/Neuro muscular disorder sufferers because of you. I know this is only your second book but I can see you growing as author and look forward to reading much more in the future!
January 12, 2017
Such a good book! I definitely recommend this book to others.
This story was emotional and personal, funny and sweet, and so many other things. Emma's desire for love took her many places, bad and good, and you see it all here. Emma is a very relatable character, with her joys and struggles that you get to witness. You want so much for her to find her happiness with Bryan. Bryan is definitely a book boyfriend I'd like to have, as funny and caring as he is. Their banter is wonderful, but if you don't like seeing chat-type conversations in word, I caution you with this book. There is a bit of that, but it didn't bother me at all.
I loved a lot of things about this novel: the main characters, the secondary characters, the developed plot, and so much more. This is the first of a series, and you get little peeks at the other characters who are starring in the next two books. I'm eagerly awaiting the second book when it comes out, as I liked Chad. And Evan seems like a really good guy as well, so it bodes well for the third one.
I think the only part I didn't like about the book was that as the story progressed, more grammar errors popped up. Based on what I read in the afterword/thanks section at the end, it sounds like Maria had some issues with her editor, and it showed. Or at least it bugged me a lot as I was reading the last quarter of the story. But other than that, I don't have much bad to say, as this is something that can easily be fixed in future books.
If you're looking for a heart-warming story about a woman, an independent (She's not whiny! She's tough) and courageous woman at that, who finds love thanks to strange and hilarious accidents, then you definitely want to check out this story. And the rest of the series while you're at it. I know I'm looking forward to them.
This story was emotional and personal, funny and sweet, and so many other things. Emma's desire for love took her many places, bad and good, and you see it all here. Emma is a very relatable character, with her joys and struggles that you get to witness. You want so much for her to find her happiness with Bryan. Bryan is definitely a book boyfriend I'd like to have, as funny and caring as he is. Their banter is wonderful, but if you don't like seeing chat-type conversations in word, I caution you with this book. There is a bit of that, but it didn't bother me at all.
I loved a lot of things about this novel: the main characters, the secondary characters, the developed plot, and so much more. This is the first of a series, and you get little peeks at the other characters who are starring in the next two books. I'm eagerly awaiting the second book when it comes out, as I liked Chad. And Evan seems like a really good guy as well, so it bodes well for the third one.
I think the only part I didn't like about the book was that as the story progressed, more grammar errors popped up. Based on what I read in the afterword/thanks section at the end, it sounds like Maria had some issues with her editor, and it showed. Or at least it bugged me a lot as I was reading the last quarter of the story. But other than that, I don't have much bad to say, as this is something that can easily be fixed in future books.
If you're looking for a heart-warming story about a woman, an independent (She's not whiny! She's tough) and courageous woman at that, who finds love thanks to strange and hilarious accidents, then you definitely want to check out this story. And the rest of the series while you're at it. I know I'm looking forward to them.
September 7, 2016
I was so excited to get my hands on this book after reading the blurb and dove into the book right away but sadly I was left disappointed. I enjoyed the friendship between the leading Lady and her best friend Mel. Their friendship was loving and supportive but funny too.
The story flowed along well, but, it was a bit long and drawn out and predictable so this story, sadly, did not hit the mark for me. I would have liked to feel more for Emma but I was too bombarded with her symptoms and struggled to connect with their story. I really REALLY don't want to believe that there are so many people out there that would behave so disgustingly towards someone who is disabled. I must lead a pretty sheltered life, or have not met anyone with as many bad manners or lacking compassion as some of the characters in this book. It seemed that it is commonplace to have strangers just tell you to your face that you are not worth wasting time with and being so venomous.
That said, I liked Bryan's character. He is like some kind of hero.
Emma has a bad blind date, set up by her best friend's friend. This date walks out as Emma arrives as she comes into the restaurant using her walking stick. She suffers with a muscle wasting disability and needs help walking. When she gets home she logs on to 'Face Space' and rants to her friend.. or so she thinks. Turns out it was to Bryan. They get talking and he vows to help her find love. He tells her she isn't his type. Bryan is Emma's friend, Mel's, best friend. Emma had met him at Mel's engagement party and had an instant crush on him. They talk most nights via text on this Face Space and both have feelings that they try to hide.
You'll have to read it to find out if Emma is Bryan's type after all....
The story flowed along well, but, it was a bit long and drawn out and predictable so this story, sadly, did not hit the mark for me. I would have liked to feel more for Emma but I was too bombarded with her symptoms and struggled to connect with their story. I really REALLY don't want to believe that there are so many people out there that would behave so disgustingly towards someone who is disabled. I must lead a pretty sheltered life, or have not met anyone with as many bad manners or lacking compassion as some of the characters in this book. It seemed that it is commonplace to have strangers just tell you to your face that you are not worth wasting time with and being so venomous.
That said, I liked Bryan's character. He is like some kind of hero.
Emma has a bad blind date, set up by her best friend's friend. This date walks out as Emma arrives as she comes into the restaurant using her walking stick. She suffers with a muscle wasting disability and needs help walking. When she gets home she logs on to 'Face Space' and rants to her friend.. or so she thinks. Turns out it was to Bryan. They get talking and he vows to help her find love. He tells her she isn't his type. Bryan is Emma's friend, Mel's, best friend. Emma had met him at Mel's engagement party and had an instant crush on him. They talk most nights via text on this Face Space and both have feelings that they try to hide.
You'll have to read it to find out if Emma is Bryan's type after all....
September 7, 2016
This book was well written and it was a wonderful read. This book had my emotions on the spectrum from smiling to crying for the characters. Emma is a 24 yr old woman who has dealt with trauma in her life and learned to survive. She is trying to stay positive and live her life despite having a debilitating disease. A innocent mistake finds Emma conversing with Bryan, a naval pilot who lives on the other side of the country. Bryan decides to help Emma with her self confidence to pursue a permanent relationship. As the story progresses Emma and Bryan learn a lot about themselves and each other. I found this book refreshing because it dealt with a subject matter that is difficult for many people to understand. This book shows that despite the obstacles of disability everyone deserves to find love and happiness in their lives.
REVIEW BY ANN
REVIEW BY ANN
September 8, 2016
Emma is a young lady who seems to be a nice girl, but has a debilitating disease that affects her being able to walk and such. We find her coming home after yet another atrocious date. What happened on this date? When she attempts to message her best friend, what happens? Who responds? What happens after that has me shaking my head. When her sister shows up the next morning trying to wake her up, what does she do? When Emma breaks down and tells Mel, a friend of her and Bryan's, what does Mel do? What does she tell Emma? It was too funny! When Bryan shows Emma's picture to his roommate, what does his roommate say? When he learns about her disability, what is Evan's response then? What does he ask Bryan? What realities does it force Bryan to face about himself? What does it start making him look at as far as what he wants, truly wants out of his life? Over the course of this book, we watch as Bryan exposes his life to Emma and Emma exposes her life to Bryan. Takes on a whole new meaning to just the word 'exposed'. in, and how things go for Emma in regards to Bryan and even Chad, a friend of Bryan's where she went to a BBQ at one day makes this book worthwhile to read. This was truly a fun read.
RECEIVED THIS BOOK AS A GIFT FOR A FAIR/HONEST REVIEW and REVIEWER FOR Bloggin' With M. Brennan.
RECEIVED THIS BOOK AS A GIFT FOR A FAIR/HONEST REVIEW and REVIEWER FOR Bloggin' With M. Brennan.
September 7, 2016
This is the second book from Maria Vickers and the first in her new Love Seekers Series.
Exposed gives us the chance to meet Emma Taylor - once a vibrant twenty year old with her whole life ahead of her, her life flips upside down when she's diagnosed with a debilitating disease. Now almost 30 and forced to use a walker most days, she's been shunned by every date her well meaning friends keep setting her up on. After another jerk of a date, Emma is ready to swear off men and turns to her best friend to rant. But what happens next, opens the door to a friendship she never expected.
Bryan Sampson receives a message from an acquaintance, bashing the male population. For a reason he can't explain, he's intrigued and decides he's going to help pull Emma out of her shell. What he hadn't counted on was his heart getting involved.
I have so much to say about this book. SO MUCH. It's an amazing story. Even more amazing is the courage it took for the author to put these words on paper, exposing parts of her in Emma.
This is one of those reads that will stick with you for a long time to come. It'll change the way you think, open your eyes and your heart. Hands down 5 stars. One click this one, right now!!! Oh and #BryanisMine.
Exposed gives us the chance to meet Emma Taylor - once a vibrant twenty year old with her whole life ahead of her, her life flips upside down when she's diagnosed with a debilitating disease. Now almost 30 and forced to use a walker most days, she's been shunned by every date her well meaning friends keep setting her up on. After another jerk of a date, Emma is ready to swear off men and turns to her best friend to rant. But what happens next, opens the door to a friendship she never expected.
Bryan Sampson receives a message from an acquaintance, bashing the male population. For a reason he can't explain, he's intrigued and decides he's going to help pull Emma out of her shell. What he hadn't counted on was his heart getting involved.
I have so much to say about this book. SO MUCH. It's an amazing story. Even more amazing is the courage it took for the author to put these words on paper, exposing parts of her in Emma.
This is one of those reads that will stick with you for a long time to come. It'll change the way you think, open your eyes and your heart. Hands down 5 stars. One click this one, right now!!! Oh and #BryanisMine.
September 2, 2016
Dating is a b--tch, specially when you are judged before you even get to meet. That was Emma's dating situation at the moment. She was looked down on ridiculed and considered to be a burden. Now you tell me why are we so judgmental? Why can we see people for who they are and not judge? Emma beautiful, bright and caring but she felt unwanted, all because of a disease that she could not control.
So as she lashes out messaging her friend, she inadvertently messages the wrong person, starting something that she never dreamed could be possible.
Bryan ,not looking for anything serious, he is a Navy man, career and has no plans on changing his care free lifestyle, until he gets a msg that changes his view on things.
This is truly a Cinderella story, no there are no glass slippers but yes there is love that is fairy tale like.
Here we have a man that is perfection, strong kind and will defend you till the end, helping a woman he barely knows, falling in love along the way.
Fate, fate is what brings these two together, because every time Bryan has crossed paths with Emma he has wanted to take care and protect her. That to me is better than any dam slipper!
So as she lashes out messaging her friend, she inadvertently messages the wrong person, starting something that she never dreamed could be possible.
Bryan ,not looking for anything serious, he is a Navy man, career and has no plans on changing his care free lifestyle, until he gets a msg that changes his view on things.
This is truly a Cinderella story, no there are no glass slippers but yes there is love that is fairy tale like.
Here we have a man that is perfection, strong kind and will defend you till the end, helping a woman he barely knows, falling in love along the way.
Fate, fate is what brings these two together, because every time Bryan has crossed paths with Emma he has wanted to take care and protect her. That to me is better than any dam slipper!
September 8, 2016
This so deserves more than 5*. It is the complete package of beautiful writing, characters and story. It is full of feels but done in an incredibly engaging way. It will have you laughing, crying and smiling throughout. Who would have thought a message sent by mistake would have led to such an amazing story?
Emma has a chronic illness but she doesn't want her illness to be what defines her. Her mission to find someone to love is a frustrating one as her dates don't see beyond the cane to the amazing woman she is. Frustrated she vents at her best friend online but mistakenly messages Bryan instead. His mission becomes to help rebuild her confidence and get her out on the social scene again.
I loved the way in which this story unfolded and the opportunity we had to really get to know Emma and Bryan as they get to know each other. This was perfectly paced and Lauren's life was one most of us don't fully understand. I hope this brings a better understanding to other readers of the daily struggles of living with a chronic illness as it did for me.
***Reviewed for LBM Book Blog***
Emma has a chronic illness but she doesn't want her illness to be what defines her. Her mission to find someone to love is a frustrating one as her dates don't see beyond the cane to the amazing woman she is. Frustrated she vents at her best friend online but mistakenly messages Bryan instead. His mission becomes to help rebuild her confidence and get her out on the social scene again.
I loved the way in which this story unfolded and the opportunity we had to really get to know Emma and Bryan as they get to know each other. This was perfectly paced and Lauren's life was one most of us don't fully understand. I hope this brings a better understanding to other readers of the daily struggles of living with a chronic illness as it did for me.
***Reviewed for LBM Book Blog***
September 8, 2016
3 1/2 out of 5 stars
This novel was the first for me by this author and I enjoyed it.
Emma was pretending to be strong and in control of her disability, but on the inside, she was still broken and had very low self-esteem. Bryan is the typical military guy - hot with plenty of ladies chasing him.
What starts as an accidental chat turns into more as they start a deeper conversation and connect with each other in a deeper way (though both are denying they want anything with the other).
I struggled with the first part of this book. I loved their chat sessions and always found myself trying to skim the actual story part. They were funny when they were “talking” together, but when I was just reading their thoughts I found myself wishing for more.
Bryan turns out to be more of a man than I expected and Emma actually became a character I wanted to get to know better. I’m happy with the way it all worked out in the end and the journey it took me on as a reader.
*** I received an advance copy from the author in exchange for an honest review ***
September 8, 2016
Emma Taylor suffers from MG and the disabilities associated with it, and has somewhat spiraled down. Losing faith in humanity and especially in the dating field. After her latest dating dibacal she accidentally messages the wrong person to complain about said date. That person happens to be Bryan; a friend of a friend. One who happens to also be hot and one she deems not in her league.
Bryan engages in the conversation and makes it his mission to help Emma overcome her hurdles and see that she is "more" then she believes. And as time passages and more interactions between the two she becomes enamored; but always chides herself that she isn't his type.
But Emma is stuck on Bryan's brain and he can't seem to shake it. Always thinking of her.
Will they realize that they are destined to be?
Maria's books will make you believe in unconditional love. One click.
Bryan engages in the conversation and makes it his mission to help Emma overcome her hurdles and see that she is "more" then she believes. And as time passages and more interactions between the two she becomes enamored; but always chides herself that she isn't his type.
But Emma is stuck on Bryan's brain and he can't seem to shake it. Always thinking of her.
Will they realize that they are destined to be?
Maria's books will make you believe in unconditional love. One click.
September 6, 2016
This book was well written and it was a wonderful read. This book had my emotions on the spectrum from smiling to crying for the characters. Emma is a 24 yr old woman who has dealt with trauma in her life and learned to survive. She is trying to stay positive and live her life despite having a debilitating disease. A innocent mistake finds Emma conversing with Bryan, a naval pilot who lives on the other side of the country. Bryan decides to help Emma with her self confidence to pursue a permanent relationship. As the story progresses Emma and Bryan learn a lot about themselves and each other. I found this book refreshing because it dealt with a subject matter that is difficult for many people to understand. This book shows that despite the obstacles of disability everyone deserves to find love and happiness in their lives.
September 8, 2016
4.5 Great Stars! Emma is a 24 year old who is dealing with having a debilitating disease and she tries her best to have a good attitude. Bryan is a Navy pilot and lives on the opposite side of the country then Emma, when one day he accidentally receives a message from her. They soon become friends and end up learning a lot about each other. I thoroughly enjoyed this story and found it beautifully written. As someone living with a debilitating disease I feel that the author hit home with this story. The characters had great chemistry! This is book one in the Love Seekers Series and I am looking forward to the next book. I recommend It!
I received this book as an ARC for an honest review. This book was read and reviewed by Annamaria for Alpha Book Club.
Plot: 4.5
Chemistry: 4.5
Pacing: 4.5
Ending: 4.5
Character Development: 4.5
I received this book as an ARC for an honest review. This book was read and reviewed by Annamaria for Alpha Book Club.
Plot: 4.5
Chemistry: 4.5
Pacing: 4.5
Ending: 4.5
Character Development: 4.5
June 8, 2017
I love that this book is real and different. It tackles a subject that isn't often a main plot point with Emma having a sickness that requires her to walk with a cane or, on bad days, a walker. She isn't going to recover from her sickness, and the symptoms were well-described. You could really understand the emotions that Emma experienced and couldn't help but feel for her and her situation. Then there was Bryan, her secret crush, who turned out to be a real hero. He was a great friend to Emma and evolved nicely into more.
At times, the events were harsh (cue Bryan questioning his friends about the situation), but realistic, which was appreciated.
My only issue was that book felt like it dragged on a little too long. But I will definitely reread and look forward to more from this author!
At times, the events were harsh (cue Bryan questioning his friends about the situation), but realistic, which was appreciated.
My only issue was that book felt like it dragged on a little too long. But I will definitely reread and look forward to more from this author!
September 7, 2016
This Book Was A Really Hard Read For Me BUT A Great Read, I Loved The Story The Characters And The Way It All Came Together.
Emma and Bryan Was Fantastic Characters And The Chemistry Just Flew From The Pages, I Suffer Something Similar To Emma Health Wise And I Can Honestly Say that Maria Vickers Is On THE Money With How You Are Treated.
Any Way I Just Need To Say That, This Book Made My Heart Break For Emma (and myself, it was like reading my life story) And I Cried Lots and Lots of Tears Whilst Reading This Beautifully Written Book, Where The Leading Man Was A Hero In More Than Just How He Was A Sailor And In Navy. I Believe Brian Is So Much More Than That.
I Recommend This Book So So Much. Bravo Maria For This Awesome Booknò
Emma and Bryan Was Fantastic Characters And The Chemistry Just Flew From The Pages, I Suffer Something Similar To Emma Health Wise And I Can Honestly Say that Maria Vickers Is On THE Money With How You Are Treated.
Any Way I Just Need To Say That, This Book Made My Heart Break For Emma (and myself, it was like reading my life story) And I Cried Lots and Lots of Tears Whilst Reading This Beautifully Written Book, Where The Leading Man Was A Hero In More Than Just How He Was A Sailor And In Navy. I Believe Brian Is So Much More Than That.
I Recommend This Book So So Much. Bravo Maria For This Awesome Booknò
July 28, 2017
These two were like teenagers. Bryan and Emma were friends by chance but more was there and they denied their feelings. Emma has a disability and has given up on men cause they SUCK! She sends Bryan a message by mistake and that's his quest to help her overcome her insecurities. They bond and then the feelings lie dormant. Can these two figure it out and admit how they feel about each other? They'll make you laugh but Emma makes you cry.
Maria great job of introducing a disability in a love story that's different from cancer or other disabilities. A must read. Great writing Maria!***Review for Sweet & Spicy Reads - ARC provided in return for an honest review***
Maria great job of introducing a disability in a love story that's different from cancer or other disabilities. A must read. Great writing Maria!***Review for Sweet & Spicy Reads - ARC provided in return for an honest review***
January 15, 2017
The heroine of this story is struck down by a disease, Myasthenia gravis, in her twenties, and faces a lifetime of traumatic symptoms. She is forced to use a cane or walker to perform her daily chores.
This story follows her as she meets her tormentors, friends, and her hero. We see her trials and tribulations she must endure as she goes about her daily life, growing from a timid person into a strong competent independent person. Highly recommended.
This story follows her as she meets her tormentors, friends, and her hero. We see her trials and tribulations she must endure as she goes about her daily life, growing from a timid person into a strong competent independent person. Highly recommended.
August 29, 2016
Maria was a new to me author when I started this book.
From the first few pages I got hooked.
This book definitely had a few points where my heart hurt.
All in all though, I really loved it.
It took me on an amazing journey into the life of Emma.
There for sure is some stuff people can learn from this book.
From the first few pages I got hooked.
This book definitely had a few points where my heart hurt.
All in all though, I really loved it.
It took me on an amazing journey into the life of Emma.
There for sure is some stuff people can learn from this book.
September 8, 2016
ARC READ. Emma and Bryan. I learned a lot about MG. I so would have snapped a foot off in some chicks ass. Unbelievable how mean some people can be. I enjoyed the confrontations when they happened. I love how they came together and how this relationship developed. I love a HEA. Thank
October 20, 2016
My heart was in my throat the entire book, welling with emotion. Emma has been through so much, but she is strong, I'm in Awe of her. Bryan is a super sexy Navy pilot, very druiel worthy. He sets out to "help" boost Em's self confidence. But, finds more.
February 6, 2017
Loved
I enjoyed this book. The characters are fun and real. I would read this book again and recommend it to my friends.
I enjoyed this book. The characters are fun and real. I would read this book again and recommend it to my friends.
March 17, 2017
The book starts off with Emma. She's trying to find the right guy one blind date at a time. She's looking for that one guy that she can connect with. She's average but has one thing that men seem to run from when they see her.... she has MG that has made her have to use a cane/walker. Her recent date saw her and darted as fast as he could. Which leads her to go toFaceSpace to rant to her friend. She ends up sending the message to Bryan and he offers to listen. He's in the Navy and is stationed in San Diego, also drop dead gorgeous. She starts telling him and he offers to try and help her. Little does she know he is determined to get her out of her comfort zone and with a man that will except her for who she is. He sets up for one of his buddies to hangout with her at a BBQ and that's where you really start to read about the mean things and the way people treat her. My heart broke for her. When Bryan thinks things might start to develop with his buddy and Emma is when he finally realizes that he truly cares for her. He wants to protect her and be there for her. Little does he know he's protected her in the past as well. The ending was great and even gets some drama tossed in there. This is a HEA. However I think their relationship keeps evolving in the 2nd book even though it's about 2 other characters. Or at least I hope. Lol. I would recommend this book to all of my friends and can't wait to read the 2nd book.
September 3, 2019
Loved
I really, really loved this book. Although it may not be for reasons that many people understand. I have MS ( multiple sclerosis). It has changed my life in so many ways. I grieve who are used to be Dailey. I am very fortunate to be married to a wonderful man, who growing up had a older brother that had a disability. So he didn’t blink twice when I became one with a disability. I am happy to say we have celebrated our 33rd anniversary. Reading for me is an escape. I love to read and in reading I can be a person without MS. Although this book reminded me of the challenges of MS, I was also impressed and enjoyed the strength of Emma. I learned many things from her character that I will take with me moving forward. Thank you for writing this book, it has been a joy and a journey in reading.
I really, really loved this book. Although it may not be for reasons that many people understand. I have MS ( multiple sclerosis). It has changed my life in so many ways. I grieve who are used to be Dailey. I am very fortunate to be married to a wonderful man, who growing up had a older brother that had a disability. So he didn’t blink twice when I became one with a disability. I am happy to say we have celebrated our 33rd anniversary. Reading for me is an escape. I love to read and in reading I can be a person without MS. Although this book reminded me of the challenges of MS, I was also impressed and enjoyed the strength of Emma. I learned many things from her character that I will take with me moving forward. Thank you for writing this book, it has been a joy and a journey in reading.
June 7, 2020
Emma's story of her journey to find love that she so well deserved brought me to tears. As I will never know how a person that has MG deals with living with this disease from day to day is like. I learned to understand a bit more of the trials right along with Bryan. To Bryan's surprise, he finds that Emma is stronger that she realizes and is not afraid to call him on his bs. Emma is his type and the one he has been looking for and didn't know it.
The author draws on her own experience of the ups and down of living with myasthenia gravis to make this story truly amazing.
If you want to read a story of love and romance that shows raw emotion and the grind of real life, this is the story for you. Invest in some tissue for the ugly cry and the joyful tears.
If you are looking for a piece of fluff, then move along but you will never know the great story you are missing out on.
The author draws on her own experience of the ups and down of living with myasthenia gravis to make this story truly amazing.
If you want to read a story of love and romance that shows raw emotion and the grind of real life, this is the story for you. Invest in some tissue for the ugly cry and the joyful tears.
If you are looking for a piece of fluff, then move along but you will never know the great story you are missing out on.
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