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Hollow
(17+) This book contains mature subject matter that is not suitable for those under the age of 17
Things aren’t always what they seem…
To outsiders, Ashlynn Summers has it all: she’s the star of her own TV cooking show, respected by her community, and a devoted wife. Until she discovers something that shakes her rock-solid world. Now, all she wants is to focus on getting her life back on track. Volunteering at a homeless shelter renews her sense of purpose, but when she meets the insolent Luke Brault, Ashlynn can’t help but think there’s more to him than meets the eye.
Although Luke keeps to himself, his daughter is his sole priority. Guilt surrounding his single father status has eaten away at him, leaving a gaping hole. He and Ashlynn become friends, yet Luke fears his past will destroy the bond they’ve created. When they discover their pasts are intertwined and unimaginable secrets are revealed, Ashlynn and Luke find themselves on shaky ground in the aftermath. Suddenly, building something solid on a hollow foundation seems impossible. Can they find a way to repair the damage of the past, or is it too heavy for them to bear?
Things aren’t always what they seem…
To outsiders, Ashlynn Summers has it all: she’s the star of her own TV cooking show, respected by her community, and a devoted wife. Until she discovers something that shakes her rock-solid world. Now, all she wants is to focus on getting her life back on track. Volunteering at a homeless shelter renews her sense of purpose, but when she meets the insolent Luke Brault, Ashlynn can’t help but think there’s more to him than meets the eye.
Although Luke keeps to himself, his daughter is his sole priority. Guilt surrounding his single father status has eaten away at him, leaving a gaping hole. He and Ashlynn become friends, yet Luke fears his past will destroy the bond they’ve created. When they discover their pasts are intertwined and unimaginable secrets are revealed, Ashlynn and Luke find themselves on shaky ground in the aftermath. Suddenly, building something solid on a hollow foundation seems impossible. Can they find a way to repair the damage of the past, or is it too heavy for them to bear?
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Published November 1, 2016
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 46 reviews
November 7, 2016
From the first page, I knew I was reading something special. Hollow consumed my thoughts and even now, days later, I still find myself reflecting on this heartbreakingly beautiful story. Hollow is a story about how looks can be deceiving, about how those people who seem to have everything and who we aspire to be like are just like the rest of us…struggling with life, and all that it throws at you.
Ashlynn seemed to have it all, a successful career and loving husband. However, after the worst kind of betrayal, she loses it all and finds herself working at a homeless shelter, Great Hearts. It’s there that she meets the adorable Lily, and her moody and reserved dad, Luke. First impressions thankfully don’t last with these two, because they didn’t get off to the greatest of starts.
I went through every emotion possible while reading, there were times when I was on the verge of tears, and then there were other times where the tears were flowing - tears of happiness. I spent a large portion of the book with my heart in my throat, I didn’t know exactly what had happened to Luke, but I knew that this beautifully damaged man had been through something traumatic, and that he was only the shell of the man he used be.
This is one of those books that is best not knowing much about in advance. I think the best reader experience will be going in blind and discovering everything as the characters do. There were moments when I thought I knew what was going on, and sometimes I was right, however sometimes I was wrong, so wrong! Ms. Winters has spun an intricate tale of love and loss, of lies and deception, of new beginnings and of taking chances on the unknown. ~ Tamara, 5 Stars
Ashlynn seemed to have it all, a successful career and loving husband. However, after the worst kind of betrayal, she loses it all and finds herself working at a homeless shelter, Great Hearts. It’s there that she meets the adorable Lily, and her moody and reserved dad, Luke. First impressions thankfully don’t last with these two, because they didn’t get off to the greatest of starts.
I went through every emotion possible while reading, there were times when I was on the verge of tears, and then there were other times where the tears were flowing - tears of happiness. I spent a large portion of the book with my heart in my throat, I didn’t know exactly what had happened to Luke, but I knew that this beautifully damaged man had been through something traumatic, and that he was only the shell of the man he used be.
This is one of those books that is best not knowing much about in advance. I think the best reader experience will be going in blind and discovering everything as the characters do. There were moments when I thought I knew what was going on, and sometimes I was right, however sometimes I was wrong, so wrong! Ms. Winters has spun an intricate tale of love and loss, of lies and deception, of new beginnings and of taking chances on the unknown. ~ Tamara, 5 Stars
January 16, 2020
It's my book, so I may be just a *wee* biased!
October 28, 2016
Lets talk about this amazing book for a moment. This book cause me to feel so many emotions I'm not really sure what to say. I'm beyond happy that it does end in a HEA but it was questionable there for a while. Let's see if I can do this book justice with my review.
Ashlynn Summer's has a fantastic life. Ashlynn has her own cooking show, that is a hit. She's married to the love of her life and she couldn't be happier. But not everything is as it seems. After an unexpected encounter changes the course of Ashlynn's life; she now finds herself working in a homeless shelter as the fill in chef. Luke Brault's purpose for living is his daughter. He loves that little girl like no other. But Luke is a closed off man. After giving up everything he's ever known to protect his daughter, Luke lives in the homeless shelter. After Ashlynn pushes to become friends Luke is scared his past will not only destroy him, but Ashlynn.
This story kept me guess what was going to happen next. It made me feel the whole gamete of emotions. I felt like I was actually living this story. When I say this story sucked me it, it did so much more than that. I loved this story and I'm so honored I had the chance to read it.
Ashlynn Summer's has a fantastic life. Ashlynn has her own cooking show, that is a hit. She's married to the love of her life and she couldn't be happier. But not everything is as it seems. After an unexpected encounter changes the course of Ashlynn's life; she now finds herself working in a homeless shelter as the fill in chef. Luke Brault's purpose for living is his daughter. He loves that little girl like no other. But Luke is a closed off man. After giving up everything he's ever known to protect his daughter, Luke lives in the homeless shelter. After Ashlynn pushes to become friends Luke is scared his past will not only destroy him, but Ashlynn.
This story kept me guess what was going to happen next. It made me feel the whole gamete of emotions. I felt like I was actually living this story. When I say this story sucked me it, it did so much more than that. I loved this story and I'm so honored I had the chance to read it.
November 3, 2016
“Duchess, I appreciate the sentiment, but you’re right, you don’t know me. If you did, you’d know that I’m already hollow inside.”
Holy WOW! I just finished this beautiful book by Author Karlee Winters and let me say this is not at all a simple friend to lover story guys. It's SO much more ... the hero and heroine both have their own stories and the road to HEA isn't smooth sailing but "the best things in life rarely are".
A quick synopsis, Ashlynn has it all – her own cooking show, a loving husband… but she lost it all in the blink of an eye. Not so sure how to move on with her life Ashlynn volunteers at the homeless shelter, helping out in the kitchen while nursing her broken heart. The last person she expects to meet is a brooding, slightly rude, handsome single father Luke. Luke is a very mysterious person often found under a tree humming a tune. He is a talented pianist – worthy of being a star performer himself but no one really knows his real story. Luke has a cute little girl that he adores. They mostly kept to themselves. So, why are they living at the shelter? Is Luke really who he says he is? Well you just have to read and find out for yourself.
The plot of this book was brilliant. I could not put it down. The story kept me intrigued, guessing, and turning the pages so fast because I wanted to find out the real truth. This is one of those books that you don’t want to skim through because you might miss an important detail. There are twists and turns that will knock you on your butt. I did not see it coming – Ashlynn and Luke’s life might be more intertwined than they realize.
This book definitely has all the feels. I laughed, cried, swooned... in some parts my heart was beating out of my chest from all the anticipation. The main characters are well developed – as the story went on each layer came off revealing another unpredictable version of themselves. I love the chemistry building between Ashlynn and Luke. It’s a slow burn kind. They both shoulder a burden and hurtful past so neither Ashlynn nor Luke were in a hurry to jump in the sac. But the chemistry and attraction is undeniable eventually they could not resist the pull – Ahem! Ashlynn and Luke really take sexy time and baking to a whole new level … Geez, I need a fan LOL!
This book was beautifully written. Not only that the story is unique, there was a perfect balance of angst, suspense, and romance. Captivating, fast paced, addictive. I LOVED IT!!! I hope you do too :)
“Every has a story to tell, but not everyone’s story ends with happily-ever-after.”
Holy WOW! I just finished this beautiful book by Author Karlee Winters and let me say this is not at all a simple friend to lover story guys. It's SO much more ... the hero and heroine both have their own stories and the road to HEA isn't smooth sailing but "the best things in life rarely are".
A quick synopsis, Ashlynn has it all – her own cooking show, a loving husband… but she lost it all in the blink of an eye. Not so sure how to move on with her life Ashlynn volunteers at the homeless shelter, helping out in the kitchen while nursing her broken heart. The last person she expects to meet is a brooding, slightly rude, handsome single father Luke. Luke is a very mysterious person often found under a tree humming a tune. He is a talented pianist – worthy of being a star performer himself but no one really knows his real story. Luke has a cute little girl that he adores. They mostly kept to themselves. So, why are they living at the shelter? Is Luke really who he says he is? Well you just have to read and find out for yourself.
The plot of this book was brilliant. I could not put it down. The story kept me intrigued, guessing, and turning the pages so fast because I wanted to find out the real truth. This is one of those books that you don’t want to skim through because you might miss an important detail. There are twists and turns that will knock you on your butt. I did not see it coming – Ashlynn and Luke’s life might be more intertwined than they realize.
This book definitely has all the feels. I laughed, cried, swooned... in some parts my heart was beating out of my chest from all the anticipation. The main characters are well developed – as the story went on each layer came off revealing another unpredictable version of themselves. I love the chemistry building between Ashlynn and Luke. It’s a slow burn kind. They both shoulder a burden and hurtful past so neither Ashlynn nor Luke were in a hurry to jump in the sac. But the chemistry and attraction is undeniable eventually they could not resist the pull – Ahem! Ashlynn and Luke really take sexy time and baking to a whole new level … Geez, I need a fan LOL!
This book was beautifully written. Not only that the story is unique, there was a perfect balance of angst, suspense, and romance. Captivating, fast paced, addictive. I LOVED IT!!! I hope you do too :)
“Every has a story to tell, but not everyone’s story ends with happily-ever-after.”
April 11, 2024
I won't give a synopsis of the book - it's already there for you to read :)
Wow! I had expected this to be a fairly run-of-the-mill 'second chance at love' romance. How wrong was I. This book is so much more. It has secrets, mysteries and some quite unexpected twists in the tale too. It made me hope, despair and shed a few tears.
The characters are really well written, such that you care what is happening to them. I liked the effect it gave by having current scenes written from Ashlynn's POV and past scenes from Luke's POV. I felt this allowed you to get to know both the hero as well as the heroine and empathise/engage with them both.
Scenes were nicely built, not too much detail that you lost the flow of the story, but enough that you could build a picture in your head. The dialogue was well written and natural and the author wrote emotions very well too. The plot line was really well developed and whilst the story didn't always move at a fast pace, it was so interesting and captivating that I didn't lose interest. In fact I found this a difficult book to put down.
There were one or two steamy love scenes but they were very much a part of the story and very natural within it. In fact I would almost say that if it wasn't going to be written as a 'clean' romance that it almost didn't have enough of them! But this is because Ms Winters was building the story rather than stringing lots of sex scenes.
I will definitely be reading more books by this new to me author and am so grateful to have discovered her.
I voluntarily read an advanced reader copy of this book.
POSSIBLE SPOILER BUT ALSO A WARNING
Beware the story has a description of a sexual abuse scene, it is gently done but I feel it only right to warn people who may be sensitive to this.
Wow! I had expected this to be a fairly run-of-the-mill 'second chance at love' romance. How wrong was I. This book is so much more. It has secrets, mysteries and some quite unexpected twists in the tale too. It made me hope, despair and shed a few tears.
The characters are really well written, such that you care what is happening to them. I liked the effect it gave by having current scenes written from Ashlynn's POV and past scenes from Luke's POV. I felt this allowed you to get to know both the hero as well as the heroine and empathise/engage with them both.
Scenes were nicely built, not too much detail that you lost the flow of the story, but enough that you could build a picture in your head. The dialogue was well written and natural and the author wrote emotions very well too. The plot line was really well developed and whilst the story didn't always move at a fast pace, it was so interesting and captivating that I didn't lose interest. In fact I found this a difficult book to put down.
There were one or two steamy love scenes but they were very much a part of the story and very natural within it. In fact I would almost say that if it wasn't going to be written as a 'clean' romance that it almost didn't have enough of them! But this is because Ms Winters was building the story rather than stringing lots of sex scenes.
I will definitely be reading more books by this new to me author and am so grateful to have discovered her.
I voluntarily read an advanced reader copy of this book.
POSSIBLE SPOILER BUT ALSO A WARNING
Beware the story has a description of a sexual abuse scene, it is gently done but I feel it only right to warn people who may be sensitive to this.
November 28, 2016
Although it took a while to get to the "good stuff" for me, the book ended with quite the bang. Lots going on and to keep track of, but was worth it in the end. While I thought it seemed predictable, Hollow surprised me with a few twists. Some a little far fetched, but Karlee Winters made them work.
"Maybe this was what we both needed. Two broken people yearning for a respite from our pain, and finding it in each other."
Talk about two people being put through the ringer of life. Ashlynn with her world crumbling around her, in the public eye no less and Luke doing what he needs to to take care of his young daughter. I liked that they were each damaged in thier own way, yet still yearned for love.
Usually I complain about insta-love, so this time I am keeping my mouth shut. These two definitely took thier time getting to know each other, while also closely guarding thier hearts. Luke was the strong, silent, but sensitive type. As a musician, the man has a way with words and then can turn around and cut you with them as well.
At first, I wasn't seeing the Ashlynn and Luke story coming full circle, but when it does, it is some convoluted stuff. Stuff that if it were me, I would have a hard time looking past. However, it was nice to see them work through things, to good, the bad and the ugly. Not just glossing over it and moving on.
Well written from dual points of view, also moving from the present to the past to get the full effect of the storyline. I wasn't sure how I felt about this book until around the 50% mark and then I really started to like it. The angst and drama were amped up and I couldn't wait to see how it was all going to end. It does and we get a nice little epilogue to complete the story of Luke and Ashlynn.
Reviewed for Renee Entress's Blog
"Maybe this was what we both needed. Two broken people yearning for a respite from our pain, and finding it in each other."
Talk about two people being put through the ringer of life. Ashlynn with her world crumbling around her, in the public eye no less and Luke doing what he needs to to take care of his young daughter. I liked that they were each damaged in thier own way, yet still yearned for love.
Usually I complain about insta-love, so this time I am keeping my mouth shut. These two definitely took thier time getting to know each other, while also closely guarding thier hearts. Luke was the strong, silent, but sensitive type. As a musician, the man has a way with words and then can turn around and cut you with them as well.
At first, I wasn't seeing the Ashlynn and Luke story coming full circle, but when it does, it is some convoluted stuff. Stuff that if it were me, I would have a hard time looking past. However, it was nice to see them work through things, to good, the bad and the ugly. Not just glossing over it and moving on.
Well written from dual points of view, also moving from the present to the past to get the full effect of the storyline. I wasn't sure how I felt about this book until around the 50% mark and then I really started to like it. The angst and drama were amped up and I couldn't wait to see how it was all going to end. It does and we get a nice little epilogue to complete the story of Luke and Ashlynn.
Reviewed for Renee Entress's Blog
October 29, 2016
4 Every life is a song waiting to be written stars!
Ashlynn Summers is a successful celebrity chef with her own show, who thinks her life is going pretty well. But, when she finds out her hubby is cheating with her best friend, her life implodes. She goes from having everything to having nothing, no husband, no job, no home. When she goes to work for a homeless shelter she meets a man who's broken soul speaks to her equally broken soul. These two have more in common then they could ever imagine, and when they discover the link, their lives will never be the same.
This is one of those books were once you start reading it you can't stop. I really enjoyed this story, it has all the elements that make a story interesting to read, love, betrayal, angst, tragedy and redemption with a little humor thrown in for good measure. The characters are intriguing and fully developed. I think the only thing I found fault with is it took too long to reach a conclusion, and it dragged a bit in the middle of the story. There were also some consistency issues, but nothing too major and it didn't take away from my enjoyment of the story.
Karlee Winters did a great job writing this book. I think she has a real talent for character development and I look forward to reading more of her work.
***ARC provided in exchange for an honest review***
Ashlynn Summers is a successful celebrity chef with her own show, who thinks her life is going pretty well. But, when she finds out her hubby is cheating with her best friend, her life implodes. She goes from having everything to having nothing, no husband, no job, no home. When she goes to work for a homeless shelter she meets a man who's broken soul speaks to her equally broken soul. These two have more in common then they could ever imagine, and when they discover the link, their lives will never be the same.
This is one of those books were once you start reading it you can't stop. I really enjoyed this story, it has all the elements that make a story interesting to read, love, betrayal, angst, tragedy and redemption with a little humor thrown in for good measure. The characters are intriguing and fully developed. I think the only thing I found fault with is it took too long to reach a conclusion, and it dragged a bit in the middle of the story. There were also some consistency issues, but nothing too major and it didn't take away from my enjoyment of the story.
Karlee Winters did a great job writing this book. I think she has a real talent for character development and I look forward to reading more of her work.
***ARC provided in exchange for an honest review***
November 1, 2016
If I'm correct in guessing that this book is this authors first......then holy shit what a way to kick of your writing career !!!!!!
This book was everything you'd expect from a well written book and I absolutely loved it.
Luke heartbroken after the death of his wife and his daughter Lily who was just adorable, living in a homeless unit meets Ashlyn who has just found out her husband is a rat bastard and lost her job as a TV chef decides to become the chef at the homeless unit.
The chemistry between these two was so instant and Karlee captured it perfectly although Luke fought his feelings. What I loved about this story was although there was a push and pull between them it wasn't over used so the story just flowed perfectly which is really refreshing. I also loved the relationship between Busy Bea and Ashlyn with Lily added into the mix that totally threw a whole other element into the story and the affects a disabled parent can have on your life.
The twists and turns were awesome and a had a few OMG moments and a few things I didn't see coming which made it a total page turner that captured my attention from start to finish.
Overall if I could rate this book more than 5* I certainly would and I look forward to any and all books Karlee Winters writes in the future !!!!!!
This book was everything you'd expect from a well written book and I absolutely loved it.
Luke heartbroken after the death of his wife and his daughter Lily who was just adorable, living in a homeless unit meets Ashlyn who has just found out her husband is a rat bastard and lost her job as a TV chef decides to become the chef at the homeless unit.
The chemistry between these two was so instant and Karlee captured it perfectly although Luke fought his feelings. What I loved about this story was although there was a push and pull between them it wasn't over used so the story just flowed perfectly which is really refreshing. I also loved the relationship between Busy Bea and Ashlyn with Lily added into the mix that totally threw a whole other element into the story and the affects a disabled parent can have on your life.
The twists and turns were awesome and a had a few OMG moments and a few things I didn't see coming which made it a total page turner that captured my attention from start to finish.
Overall if I could rate this book more than 5* I certainly would and I look forward to any and all books Karlee Winters writes in the future !!!!!!
October 24, 2016
This is my first ARC review. This is also the first I have read of this author. To sum it up...awesome!
This book covers struggles that a lot of people have endured. Some call them triggers although these situations are part of the story, the author tastefully touches on it without going into too much graphic detail. Just enough to aid the storyline.
I fell in love with the main characters Ashlynn and Luke. They each had their own story going but it flowed together nicely. Ashland was dealing with major heartache, disappointment and the uncertainty of her future. Luke was fighting the demons of his past. The two together were an explosion waiting to happen. The question is would they survive it. What did fate have in store for them?
I could not put it down. I had to find out what happened and was surprised by the twist and turns.
If you like romance, a rising from the ashes strong woman and a mystery when you least expect it then you will love this one.
This book covers struggles that a lot of people have endured. Some call them triggers although these situations are part of the story, the author tastefully touches on it without going into too much graphic detail. Just enough to aid the storyline.
I fell in love with the main characters Ashlynn and Luke. They each had their own story going but it flowed together nicely. Ashland was dealing with major heartache, disappointment and the uncertainty of her future. Luke was fighting the demons of his past. The two together were an explosion waiting to happen. The question is would they survive it. What did fate have in store for them?
I could not put it down. I had to find out what happened and was surprised by the twist and turns.
If you like romance, a rising from the ashes strong woman and a mystery when you least expect it then you will love this one.
November 8, 2016
Love isn't bound by the laws of time. It's unpredictable, impulsive, and timeless.
This is one of the books that stays with you. A book that changes you. I've read many books in my life, I've cried, I've laughed, hell, I've freakin' cringed. This book however has really touched me. The world is small, life it works strangely. Sometimes we don't really know anything until we're brought really low and we've lost, what we thought, was the best parts of ourselves and then along comes something or someone that restores our faith in us and the world.
You're probably reading this thinking "this woman is rambling, get to the juicy bits" so to get to it, this book was INTENSE it was nothing that I expected and it completely blew me away. The story pulls you in and buries you deep within its pages.
I highly recommend it.
This is one of the books that stays with you. A book that changes you. I've read many books in my life, I've cried, I've laughed, hell, I've freakin' cringed. This book however has really touched me. The world is small, life it works strangely. Sometimes we don't really know anything until we're brought really low and we've lost, what we thought, was the best parts of ourselves and then along comes something or someone that restores our faith in us and the world.
You're probably reading this thinking "this woman is rambling, get to the juicy bits" so to get to it, this book was INTENSE it was nothing that I expected and it completely blew me away. The story pulls you in and buries you deep within its pages.
I highly recommend it.
October 24, 2016
This book is a solid 5 stars for me. This is the first book I've read by Karlee Winters but it won't be my last. This book will give you all the emotional feels a person could have.
it will teach you that everyone has their own struggles but at the end of the day you can't give up. Ashlynn had the worst things happen to her yet she kept going. When she met Luke she could see the same pain in his eyes that she felt.
This book will make you stop and think about humanity. How some people are down on their luck and need a helping hand. It takes the best people to really care about others and put them first. This story will show you that. This book isn't all about sadness there is love and some oh so sexy times.
Simply put, I loved this book.
it will teach you that everyone has their own struggles but at the end of the day you can't give up. Ashlynn had the worst things happen to her yet she kept going. When she met Luke she could see the same pain in his eyes that she felt.
This book will make you stop and think about humanity. How some people are down on their luck and need a helping hand. It takes the best people to really care about others and put them first. This story will show you that. This book isn't all about sadness there is love and some oh so sexy times.
Simply put, I loved this book.
November 22, 2016
“He was all muscle and inked skin. He was perfection. He was beautiful.”
Heat Rating:
5 Hollow stars! OMG… perfection!! Beautiful, beautiful, beautiful!
Ashlynn and Luke are two complete opposites… but you know what they say… opposites attract. And that’s exactly what happens between these two! There’s so much emotion in this book, but the heat is off the charts. I fell for Luke and his story and everything he does for his daughter. Then you add in Ashlynn who’s dealing with her own problems and while this should be a disaster waiting to happen, these two heal each other! Ugh, I loved this book so much… one click it immediately!
*ARC provided by Author in exchange for an honest bitchin’ review.
Reviewed by The Sarcastic Bitch from Bitches N’ Books
Heat Rating:
5 Hollow stars! OMG… perfection!! Beautiful, beautiful, beautiful!
Ashlynn and Luke are two complete opposites… but you know what they say… opposites attract. And that’s exactly what happens between these two! There’s so much emotion in this book, but the heat is off the charts. I fell for Luke and his story and everything he does for his daughter. Then you add in Ashlynn who’s dealing with her own problems and while this should be a disaster waiting to happen, these two heal each other! Ugh, I loved this book so much… one click it immediately!
*ARC provided by Author in exchange for an honest bitchin’ review.
Reviewed by The Sarcastic Bitch from Bitches N’ Books
November 21, 2016
Hollow is a great contemporary romance. It's sweet, but some tragedy thrown in. I loved the growth of the characters, Ashlynn and Luke. Ashlynn's perfect life seems to implode all at once. Not only does she lose her husband, but also the career that she worked so hard for. She loses all her so called friends, except for her friend and assistant, Kiki, who is always her voice of reason. Ashlynn is left with no choice but to pick herself up and move forward with her life.
Luke's past is tragic. When he meets Ashlynn, he want nothing to do with her. He views her as a rich and entitled woman, something she most definitely is not. With a little persistence, Ashlynn breaks through Luke's stony exterior and becomes close to him and his daughter. The three form a seemingly unbreakable bond until secrets come out.
I really enjoyed Luke and Ashlynn's relationship. It started out slow and as friends. However, he didn't let her fully in, as he was afraid to tell her his secret. These are two characters that rise above their circumstances and come out stronger.
Luke's past is tragic. When he meets Ashlynn, he want nothing to do with her. He views her as a rich and entitled woman, something she most definitely is not. With a little persistence, Ashlynn breaks through Luke's stony exterior and becomes close to him and his daughter. The three form a seemingly unbreakable bond until secrets come out.
I really enjoyed Luke and Ashlynn's relationship. It started out slow and as friends. However, he didn't let her fully in, as he was afraid to tell her his secret. These are two characters that rise above their circumstances and come out stronger.
November 10, 2016
Five Powerful Stars! Ashylnn looks like she has everything in her life but all is not as it appears. She was married to the man of her dreams but a betrayal leaves her destroyed. She starts to volunteer in a homeless shelter where she meets Luke. Luke is a single father who is trying to recover from something you must read to believe. Luke and Ashlynn have a connection that will eventually change their lives. I was hooked from the beginning and could not put the book down until I finished it. With every page I turned more secrets were revealed that I was not prepared for. The book is well written and is full of twists and turns, suspense, intrigue and romance. I have not read any books by this author before but I will definitely be looking for more from her. I highly recommend this book!
I voluntarily reviewed an ARC of this book. This book was read and reviewed by Annamaria for Alpha Book Club.
Plot: 5
Chemistry: 5
Pacing: 5
Ending: 5
Character Development: 5
I voluntarily reviewed an ARC of this book. This book was read and reviewed by Annamaria for Alpha Book Club.
Plot: 5
Chemistry: 5
Pacing: 5
Ending: 5
Character Development: 5
November 15, 2016
This book, y'all. 5 stars just isn't enough. I love this book beyond words. I love Karlee beyond words. I can't wait to read more from her. She's an incredible writer who pulls you into the world she's created.
Ashlynn had the world at her feet until the rug was literally pulled out from under her. She lost her TV show, husband, and best friend all in a short time. She took a job at a homeless shelter to have something to do and to get her mind off of her troubles.
You know the saying, it's a small world.......well for Ashlynn she meets a man, Luke, who had a lot to hide. They became friends and eventually lovers but it's the secrets he harbors that intertwine with Ashlynn's past that have us picking our jaws up off the floor. She created this whole new level of tangibility. I felt everything these two felt. I cried. I laughed. I threw my kindle. Seriously. This book is everything!
If you're looking for a book to add to your top reads of 2016, this is the one.
Ashlynn had the world at her feet until the rug was literally pulled out from under her. She lost her TV show, husband, and best friend all in a short time. She took a job at a homeless shelter to have something to do and to get her mind off of her troubles.
You know the saying, it's a small world.......well for Ashlynn she meets a man, Luke, who had a lot to hide. They became friends and eventually lovers but it's the secrets he harbors that intertwine with Ashlynn's past that have us picking our jaws up off the floor. She created this whole new level of tangibility. I felt everything these two felt. I cried. I laughed. I threw my kindle. Seriously. This book is everything!
If you're looking for a book to add to your top reads of 2016, this is the one.
November 1, 2016
After reading this book I found a new favorite author! Hollow had me hooked from the very beginning. This story had me feeling all kinds of emotions and I loved it even more because it touched me on a personal level. The author, Karlee Winters wasn't afraid to shed light on the cruelties of our world and I applaud her efforts for her bravery in doing so. It was filled with many twists and turns which I enjoyed a lot and didn't see coming. I loved Ashlynn's character, but Luke with all his complexities captured my heart. I loved the relationship between Luke& Ashlynn. I can't wait to read more from this author in the future.
October 29, 2016
Wow! This was an awesome read. There was so much emotion packed into every page, as I reader I really felt invested in the characters. Watching the relationship develop gradually between Luke and Ashlynn was perfect and paced nicely. I thought the sporadic flashbacks into Luke's past were very well done. This book had the perfect mix of angst and romance. I highly recommend it and look forward to reading more from this author.
November 5, 2016
Wow! A story full of twists and turns, ups and downs but that is what kept my interest. I really got pulled into the two main characters and the heart break they both had to deal with. Definitely on my recommend list. I will be reading more written by Karlee. This was given to me and I chose to voluntarily write a review!
November 21, 2016
Amazing
Well what can i say that was one of the best books I've read so uplifting an touching there love was epic an the way it flixed back to his old life genius well done fantastic book
Well what can i say that was one of the best books I've read so uplifting an touching there love was epic an the way it flixed back to his old life genius well done fantastic book
November 29, 2016
Topical
As I was reading this book I couldn't imagine where it was heading! What an ending. The characters were real and heartbreaking. The descriptions were quite good without over explaining. I thoroughly enjoyed this book and highly recommend it.
As I was reading this book I couldn't imagine where it was heading! What an ending. The characters were real and heartbreaking. The descriptions were quite good without over explaining. I thoroughly enjoyed this book and highly recommend it.
October 23, 2016
I was fortunate to receive an ARC for an honest review. This was an amazing read that truly touched me. I certainly shed tears. We've had a lot of loss in our family and friends over the last few years and this story makes you really appreciate what you have and the times we get to cherish of the time we had with those who we've lost. I found Ashlynn to be a strong character you could appreciate and respect, while you witness Luke struggle with the hand he was dealt. Expect the unexpected. Thank you Karlee.
April 12, 2019
Beautifully tragic!
Beautifully written. It broke my heart as I was submerged in the pain and tragedy of the characters, turning the pages fast as I was captivated by their story, uncovering the past and the present. A look at the cruelty that exists in the heart of some and the beauty and healing in others. And a reminder of the pain that others can hide, so to always be kind. This is the first book I have read by Karlee and I will look for others, her writing takes you away so you are living and breathing her characters.
Beautifully written. It broke my heart as I was submerged in the pain and tragedy of the characters, turning the pages fast as I was captivated by their story, uncovering the past and the present. A look at the cruelty that exists in the heart of some and the beauty and healing in others. And a reminder of the pain that others can hide, so to always be kind. This is the first book I have read by Karlee and I will look for others, her writing takes you away so you are living and breathing her characters.
November 29, 2016
This book completely ripped me apart and very very slowly put me back together!
I seriously cried and screamed and begged and then my heart was so full of the love that this book ended with that literally made it burst!
I don't want to give detail by detail but I don't want to say this book is amazing. This book showed me what I knew but refreshed it in my heart so perfectly.
Sometimes you have to lose everything to find it all!
Voluntarily read and reviewed this book for my honest opinion.
I seriously cried and screamed and begged and then my heart was so full of the love that this book ended with that literally made it burst!
I don't want to give detail by detail but I don't want to say this book is amazing. This book showed me what I knew but refreshed it in my heart so perfectly.
Sometimes you have to lose everything to find it all!
Voluntarily read and reviewed this book for my honest opinion.
October 29, 2016
This is storytelling at its very best this book was just so amazing I could not put it down this book had me spellbound from page one, I didn't want it to end it was captivating,intense, intrguing, the characters will make you fall in love over and over again this is a must read just wow, I am so blown away, great job Karlee, I cannot wait for more of your greatness!!
December 26, 2016
Wow, I'm pleasantly surprised by this book. I bought it solely by reading the blurb and I'm so glad! It's amazing! I love how emotional was and that twist at the end, whoa, although I do believe the drama in the last 20% was over the top (my personal opinion and that's why 4 and not 5 stars) but I really liked it.
February 23, 2017
I felt uncomfortable reading this because it seemed so far removed from reality. I think even if the character had kept the ridiculously convenient storyline that tied everything up with a bow, then she should have at least made the shelter more realistic.
It felt as realistic as a rich gap yah student actually discovering real culture.
It felt as realistic as a rich gap yah student actually discovering real culture.
February 15, 2017
This is a wonderful book. I went through every emotion reading this book. The characters were amazing. The storyline was unique & had me hooked from the very first chapter. Hollow will definitely not disappoint.
I received an ARC at no cost from the author.
I received an ARC at no cost from the author.
February 5, 2017
Title: Hollow
Author: Karlee Winters
5 amazing stars
I've never read a novel written by Karlee Winters before I picked up Hollow, and neither did I know much about the book itself, but I was amazed and taken through an adventure I never saw coming. It's one of those stories that reminds you that looks can be deceiving. Ashlynn seems to be living the perfect life to everyone who watches her on the television, but when she unconvers a terrible secret that leaver her broken hearted, she turns to volunteering hoping to heal. In comes Luke, a man whose world revolves around his daughter but no one know much about him. The two connect, hoping they can somewhat help one another, only they both fear what their secrets could do if they come out.
4.5 sexy dreams
It was difficult to watch their struggles, to see them fight so hard through their pain and still fear the consequences of their secrets. I cheered through all of their obstacles and really hoped that they would finally get their happily ever after - and boy does Karlee Winters keep you guessing al the way to the end on the possible outcomes. I loved Hollow and can't wait for more from Karlee Winters.
*ARC provided by Author in exchange for an honest review.
Reviewed by Kathleen, The Small Girl from A small girl, her man and her books
Author: Karlee Winters
5 amazing stars
I've never read a novel written by Karlee Winters before I picked up Hollow, and neither did I know much about the book itself, but I was amazed and taken through an adventure I never saw coming. It's one of those stories that reminds you that looks can be deceiving. Ashlynn seems to be living the perfect life to everyone who watches her on the television, but when she unconvers a terrible secret that leaver her broken hearted, she turns to volunteering hoping to heal. In comes Luke, a man whose world revolves around his daughter but no one know much about him. The two connect, hoping they can somewhat help one another, only they both fear what their secrets could do if they come out.
4.5 sexy dreams
It was difficult to watch their struggles, to see them fight so hard through their pain and still fear the consequences of their secrets. I cheered through all of their obstacles and really hoped that they would finally get their happily ever after - and boy does Karlee Winters keep you guessing al the way to the end on the possible outcomes. I loved Hollow and can't wait for more from Karlee Winters.
*ARC provided by Author in exchange for an honest review.
Reviewed by Kathleen, The Small Girl from A small girl, her man and her books
February 20, 2017
I received an ARC for an honest review
Review by Country Gals BOOK Blog
After Ashlynn's marriage ends and her spot on her cooking television gets cut, she finds a new opportunity that brings her into the lives of those less fortunate. One man and his daughter in particular seem to draw her to them with his pain that's written all over him. As she befriends this handsome and closed off man, she finds there is a lot more to him than she ever expected to see.
This story was heartbreakingly beautiful. From the very beginning the story is filled with heartbreak. From Ashlynn's marriage ending so devastatingly, to he pieces of Luke's life that he slowly shared with her, we watch as these two characters find comfort and trust in one another and slowly build a relationship that overcomes past heartache. You'll cry, start to hope, and smile through each passage. The author draws you in with struggles of that many of us have seen or endured and all the way up to the end your glued to the pages to see how things will play out. This was a beautiful story of learning to live again.
Review by Country Gals BOOK Blog
After Ashlynn's marriage ends and her spot on her cooking television gets cut, she finds a new opportunity that brings her into the lives of those less fortunate. One man and his daughter in particular seem to draw her to them with his pain that's written all over him. As she befriends this handsome and closed off man, she finds there is a lot more to him than she ever expected to see.
This story was heartbreakingly beautiful. From the very beginning the story is filled with heartbreak. From Ashlynn's marriage ending so devastatingly, to he pieces of Luke's life that he slowly shared with her, we watch as these two characters find comfort and trust in one another and slowly build a relationship that overcomes past heartache. You'll cry, start to hope, and smile through each passage. The author draws you in with struggles of that many of us have seen or endured and all the way up to the end your glued to the pages to see how things will play out. This was a beautiful story of learning to live again.
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