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The Impressions Series #1

Impressions of You

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From the outside Wesley Marsden has it all: wealth, good looks, and a genius level IQ, but these qualities hide the depths of his complexity. While he’s a man who’s strong, confident, and in control, he’s also a man obsessed with solving a family mystery and dealing with personal demons that have plagued his relationships for years.

Mia Careri is a special needs teacher; a woman who’s devoted her life to the care and education of other people’s children. Funny, beautiful, and intelligent, she has a job she loves and close friends who are like her family, but something is missing. A slew of failed relationships have her yearning for that connection, that feeling of intense love – the perfect man to have a future with.

When by chance or by fate, Mia and Wesley encounter one another in the most unlikely of settings, they realize that they might be each other’s salvation. As their fates collide over the course of a few months, neither of them will ever be the same again.

209 pages, ebook

First published October 23, 2016

58 people are currently reading
539 people want to read

About the author

Christopher Harlan

27 books1,271 followers

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5 stars
91 (42%)
4 stars
71 (33%)
3 stars
33 (15%)
2 stars
12 (5%)
1 star
6 (2%)
Displaying 1 - 30 of 77 reviews
Profile Image for Olga therebelreader.
894 reviews767 followers
July 25, 2017
In short:
Hero 3/5 | Heroine 4/5 | Plot (Point, Originality) 4/5 | Writing Style 3/5 | Steam 3/5 | Romance 3/5 | Angst-Suspense 4/5 | Darkness 0/5 | Humor 1/5 | Secondary Characters 3/5 | Drama-Conflict 3/5 | Mystery 2/5 | Twists 3/5 | Pacing Fast | Action 3/5
Profile Image for Tanaka K.
898 reviews7 followers
October 8, 2016
Ever had a book that moved you to the core? Ever had a book that simply made your heart bleed out with emotions. Impressions of You is a debut book by Christopher Harlan that simply told a beautiful story of love, pain and letting go. It was a memorable and a beautiful written story that I simply could not get enough of. I enjoyed reading it immensely.

Impressions of You is the story of Mia, special education teacher who meets Wesley, a wealthy man with a painful past and rocked by personal issues. They meet at an unlikely place and they form an attraction for each other. I went in blind with this book. I did not know what it was about or even who the characters were but I saw the title of the story and I just had to read this story. I was not disappointed at all. Impression of You was a story like no other. It was different and unique. It screamed originality which pulled me to the story. I did not expect at all the situations in this book to be so profound but I was left with a sense of contentment while I was reading this story. Christopher Harlan wrote a book that had real issues which made it so captivating to me. In a way, it gave the story such a different edge and I liked that. I was able to follow the story so well without it being complicated at all. Like I said, it had a realism that spoke so much volumes which carried it to a different stratosphere. Apart from realism, there was so much heart in the story that made me swoon and I feel like the author really brought the right feels at the right time. Plus he did not go overboard with the sex scenes and focused on the plot which got me so into it. The sex scenes were an added bonus lol. They were hot I tell you and I had to fan myself because they had a lot of passion. Impressions of You had angst and emotions that seeped out that I became so moved and deeply rooted to the story. I even got a bit emotional. It was definitely an emotional masterpiece in my eyes.

I loved the characters. Having a great chemistry between characters elevates a story and gives an extra and special dynamic. There was amazing chemistry between Wesley and Mia that I found myself gravitating a lot to them. They both had a deeper connection that was neither rushed nor forced. I liked Mia. She was helpful , caring and loving. It was her insecurities that made me like her more. She had real feelings like I do and insecurities about herself that I do sometimes. This made her more relatable to most women like me. She was someone I could be friends with. Loved her sarcasm, banter and sense of humor that made her such a likable character. There was balance to her strong side and her vulnerable side. Wesley was a different hero. I am used to alpha and dominant heroes in books but Wesley was so different in terms of he was humble. He was not cocky or full of himself. I loved that he had real problems. He did not need to be perfect. That one flaw he had made me swoon and that it made him more real.

Impression of You definitely left a lasting impression on me and also gained me a new author that I will definitely be following. I can't wait what the author comes up with next.

ARC provided by author in exchange for an honest review.
Profile Image for Nance.
1,602 reviews115 followers
May 25, 2017
One of my favorites of the year! Anything about autism is a special read since it hits so close to home. And, this author portrays the disorder very authentically. So many actions and reactions were spot-on perfect. Can't hope to wonder how much research was put into this or if the author has autism within his home-life. Anyway, I loved the romance between the couple! A male author writing such steamy and sensual love scenes really was a bonus. There were some tender and moving moments within the book also. A special needs teacher meets a billionaire who is saddled with an anxiety issue. As the two get to know each other, Mia is just so understanding and patient with Wesley. The chemistry between the two was apparent, but Wesley was dealing with a past that consumed his every waking moment. How Mia comes to believe in him and comes to love him is just so beautiful. And, Wesley also realizes that Mia is the one for him as she trusts and regards him as a loving and caring man. I couldn't help but be so entranced in their love story. Looking forward to reading the next in the series...
Profile Image for Chris  C - A Midlife Wife.
1,829 reviews463 followers
May 23, 2017
So good! Even brought on some tears!
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
4.5 stars
I picked this book up on a whim never expecting it to be so damn good. I have read few romances by male authors and this book was not only a surprise as far as the story but in terms of the hot story too.

You get an awesome cast of characters that you just connect with and a a range of emotion that spans the spectrum. Overall a wonderful story that you will not put down easily.


Profile Image for Kate_mrs539.
377 reviews8 followers
March 30, 2017
Impressions of You, staring Mia Careri and Wesley Marsden, is the love story not only of these two characters, but also of a man's deep love for his family.

In a random meeting, Wesley, the Patriarch of his family, and Mia, a dedicated special needs teacher begin a romance that neither expected to find. Navigating through the beginning stages of love and the high demands of her job, Mia realizes this relationship is different from any other she has ever had before. But Wesley's secrets and strange behavior makes it difficult for Mia to keep her level head and before she knows it her heart is making all the decisions. As the secrets are revealed and decisions made, will their love survive?

I thoroughly enjoyed this book. I loved how Wesley romanced Mia. A lot of novels have an insta-lust factor, which is great because to be honest we only have 300 pages...or so...but I enjoyed that the author had Mia and Wesley take a little time.

The mystery involved was just enough to keep me interested and on edge.

Overall, this is a great story and I can't wait to see what the author does with the extra characters.

Great things will come from this author, I have no doubt!
Profile Image for Debbie Duncalf.
286 reviews3 followers
October 26, 2016
This is the debut novel of new author Christopher Harlan.
I was asked to do a beta read on this by Christopher, for a first time author I have to say that this author writes really well. He manages to capture his reader by weaving us a magical story of finding love and dealing with the things that have been a worry to them for some time.
The love story between Mia and Wesley is a delight to read and follow them as they embark on their forever or not together.
Profile Image for Christine .
1,161 reviews61 followers
July 27, 2017
4 Stars to Impressions Of You (The Impressions Series #1) by Christopher Harlan

From the cover I assumed this book was erotic romance. Although there are some smokin' sexy scenes, this book was so much more: emotional, intense.

The author wrote an emotional story with complex and intelligent characters. There was a good amount of angst and tension with some light suspense which added even more depth. This was my first book (and his, I believe) by this author.

I have very little personal experience with the issues that helped to shape this book. However I am smart enough to know that a great amount of careful thought and research went into the writing. It was impressive to say the least that I came away from this book with more knowledge than I started.

That said, my reasons for not giving 5 instead of 4 stars were partly because of the lack of connection I felt to the H/h. In addition, there relationship felt very 'instalove' so I had trouble with believing their connection, nor did I feel their chemistry. I want to say that we only get a few pages of Wesley's perspective. I wanted , needed more insight from what his true thoughts were. He was an intensely private man (for good reasons) but I wanted to know him better. I enjoy a book measurably more when it is written in equal perspectives. Of course, that is just my opinion and in no way takes from the author's talent. This book was written well.

I'm not going to summarize in my review because the blurb does a good job with hinting the premise. Also, as I said earlier, there is a bit of mystery to Wesley and I don't want to give any spoilers. That said, I enjoyed this book as a whole and the ending was very good. Will I read more of this author? Yes, I would like to.

This is my honest and unbiased review.

Profile Image for A. Leslie.
66 reviews13 followers
October 9, 2016
* I received an ARC that I promised to review. I have no affiliation with the author or publisher.*
description

Christopher Harlan didn't just step in the literary world, he busted the damn door down. He knows how to write a story that will keep you engaged and turning them pages. His characters are well thought out with a depth that surprised me. The romance is beautiful, heartwarming and poignant. While most of the time the instant feelings are a hard concept to pull off, Christopher done it brilliantly. He not only made it believable but real.
Mia has insecurities that many women face but she powers through them because Wesley is there to help her. He's the most genuine, caring man a woman could ask for. Mia is a sweetheart. She doesn't hide her feelings for Wesley at all.
I loved watching these two come together. They wasn't afraid to put their feelings out there. Wesley has a lot of struggles he does his best to overcome because of his past. It was sweet to know that Mia helped with that. There were some encounters that was a little spicy but gently sweet.
Christopher, you done an outstanding job with your debut novel. You kept the story flowing with love, laughter and intrigue. You have a fan in me forever now.

Amanda@Tears and Lipstick Smears Book Blog
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Profile Image for Kim Byrd.
16 reviews36 followers
October 28, 2016
Christopher Harlan knocked it out of the ball park with this book!!! It was a good read from start to finish! I didn't want to put it down. Wesley has inner demons and emotional issues he struggles to deal with. Mia is a strong, intelligent female, teaching special needs children, with the worst choice in men. Who know one cup of coffee at a place neither wanted to go to, would change their lives' directions? insight into two mental health issues, that aren't really discussed. I applaud Mr. Harlan for an amazing job and being brave enough to bring things to life in his book most would shy away from. Congratulations!!!
Profile Image for Misti  Long.
396 reviews9 followers
October 11, 2017
Definitely Worth Reading

This is my first book I've read of Christopher Harlan although I've known of him for awhile. I have a particular reading thing that I do. I read one author until I complete their books then I move on.

I'm really sorry now I didn't read him sooner. I liked this book from the beginning and it's really hard to believe it's his first book.

It's got a bit of it all. Funny, sexiness, good story line and of course we can't leave out the drama. I mean really it's romance for a reason. Can't wait to read the next one.
Profile Image for J.A. Lafrance.
Author 58 books389 followers
October 29, 2016
I have read a ton of books, but this one gave me more feels that a lot of books.
This book will make you see he highs and lows, and it will turn you inside out and then right you.
I loved this read and am seriously looking forward to more from this Author.
Get writing Mr. Harlan.
Profile Image for Tamara.
515 reviews7 followers
December 30, 2016
“…whenever two people come into contact, no matter how briefly, they leave an impression on one another; that they exchange something by coming into contact with one another, even if it’s something as small as a few particles that couldn’t be seen with the naked eye.”

The synopsis for the book pretty much wraps up what the story is about, so let me just jump right in with my thoughts because I don’t want to give anything away…..

Impressions of You is Christopher Harlan’s debut novel, but you would never have guessed it by the amount of shear talent displayed within the pages of this book. Well-written with well-developed and extremely likeable characters along with a plot that flowed so effortlessly, I swore I was reading a book from a seasoned author. This story consumed me and I devoured it in a day only stopping for a few brief hours of sleep so that I could continue appreciating the astounding story that was unfolding before my eyes. Everything about this book, from the HOT and incredibly sexy cover to the captivating and engaging storyline was pure perfection and I am so happy that I decided to purchase this book and give it a chance.

A rare gem in the Indie world of books, Christopher Harlan has knocked it out of the park with Impressions of You and I can’t wait for the second installment from this incredible author.

4.75 stars
Profile Image for Beth Slone .
317 reviews11 followers
November 3, 2016
This author had me hooked with the blurb. I couldn't wait to get my hands on this book. When I was finally able to start reading it I couldn't put it down. I absolutely loved this book. Everyone needs to read it. I loved the characters and everything about it. Can't wait to see what this author comes up with next.
Profile Image for Trenna Harris.
368 reviews
March 30, 2017
Well done!

I get a little skeptical when I find out this is from a first time author, but you would think he has been writing for years! I was overwhelmed with emotion . Mia and Westley's banter was comical and fun. Then hearing about Annabelle's was gut wrenching. Now I can't wait for the next one!
Profile Image for Joy Boutwell.
1,614 reviews16 followers
December 23, 2016
Impressions of you by Christopher Harlan is a must read. It has a sexy of. If you like a mild sex book this is one to get. The story is awesome and well written. Mia is a teacher of special needs kids and Wes is a wealthy genius with demons. He meets Mia and an awesome story unfolds. Can't wait for more of this authors books.
Profile Image for Nounoune.
44 reviews1 follower
November 7, 2016
The story is ok but I don't like the heroine for her insecurity.
Profile Image for Home Is Where the Wine Is Book Blog.
257 reviews49 followers
October 31, 2016
Sensual, beautiful, heartwarming. Those were some of my thoughts while reading Christopher Harlan’s debut novel, Impressions of You. I immediately became addicted to his beautiful words. Like a poet he melding the story into something breathtaking.

The heroine was realistic and very loveable. Wesley…whew, his vulnerable persona made me want to jump through the pages and give him a big hug. I suffer from anxiety as well and was able relate with him and his inability to handle crowds.

The steamy scenes were HOT but not too much in-your-face as some other stories I have read. I caught myself fanning and looking around, making sure no one was watching a few times hehe.

The story flowed beautifully and ended in perfection. I can’t wait to read more from him as I am secretly hoping that Dacia will have her own story next.

Favorite Scene: When she meets Wesley for the first time and their first “encounter”.
Favorite Quotes:

“I like it,” I say ignoring his sarcasm. “it’s hot. I like that you’re not exactly how you seem. You have layers.” Jesus, I made him sound like an onion.”

“He’s here with me in my dreams, and even though we’ve only just met, he’s taken over a place in mind reserved for no one else.”

“The first time he laid eyes on me I felt…claimed, like he knew instinctually without a word between us that I was to be his.
Profile Image for Debbie Guzak.
53 reviews
August 2, 2017
Wonderful story that left me wanting more 😱

Oh wow, what a story. This was a wonderful story that had my emotions all over the place. I was unsure of Wesley at first I have to be honest, however I quickly came to love him. Mia was so sassy and funny, I found myself laughing out loud to the banter between the two of them. I enjoyed reading a story that touched on the special needs children and the struggles that they and their families face as far as education. Also the toll it takes on them as well as the teachers. I also enjoyed the fact it touched on anxiety and depression, which many people don't understand a lot about. Back to the emotions: I could almost feel Wesley's pain when describing what happened to Annabelle, the blame he felt, just like I could almost see her smiling face when she saw her brother come to visit. Wesley's email to Mia made me cry and their sex, that left me feeling very jealous 😒. Enjoyed so much, starting on the next one!!!!
Profile Image for Wonder Tre Reads -Tre Harris.
1,302 reviews30 followers
June 10, 2018
This story pulls on the heartstrings non stop, this story is one that surrounds serious topics blended in with a romance. What starts out with a basic cup of black coffee brews into so much more and we go deep down into the past of Wesley and learn so much about what made him the man he is today. Mia is such a passionate caring woman that gives her all into her work, the connection between her and Wes is instantaneous. This story had be holding my hand to my heart as I was reading and other moments I was grabbing for a tissue. Although I personally haven’t experienced anything as they have, the details help me to feel as though I could have. I feel for these characters as though I know them personally. I’ve heard this is a debut from this author and I find that hard to believe because it all flowed so seamlessly. Well done and I cannot wait to read more in this series as well as other work from this author. This is my unbiased and voluntary review.
Profile Image for Lauren Lascola-Lesczynski.
1,102 reviews31 followers
July 27, 2017
I can't say enough great things about this book...you can tell that Christopher put his heart and soul into these words. They were beautifully written.
I loved the depth of the characters and the story. I mean it's pretty hard NOT to love a handsome as fuck millionaire right? Well Wesley is handsome, but he is also has a heart of gold. His "flaws" are endearing and make him that much more lovable.
Mia is a caring school teacher who has has some luck with men, but that all changes one night when she meets a handsome stranger...Wesley.
There is an instant connection that they both can't deny, but Wesley is skittish for reason's you will have to read about to find out what they are :)
I heart this story line because it really is all about the connection between two people and the emotions involved with starting a relationship. I can't wait to read Impressions of Me next.

Profile Image for Dayreader Reviews.
791 reviews63 followers
May 22, 2017
Blown Away! From the first page of the prologue, which took my breath away, I could not stop reading. This is a debut novel by Christopher Harlan, and I will be reading the next book from this talented author. Wesley and Mia meet in a coffee bar and their interaction is perfect. It is light and funny and I wanted to know more. As the story progresses, their relationship becomes complex. Wesley is not what he seems, and yet, he is an open book.

The romance in this book is off the charts, and Christopher Harlan does an excellent job of bringing these two lovers together amid an extreme anxiety disorder, a cocky younger brother, and a well placed mystery. I can't wait to read the next installment in this series. 5 Hot and Steamy Stars!
Profile Image for Whitney.
47 reviews2 followers
December 28, 2020
Wow. What a special book...

I enjoyed reading Impressions of You for a few reasons:

It brought mental illness and mental disabilities to light and that is incredibly admirable. It was refreshing to see such a real and common thing - anxiety - affecting a main character. Real life, y’all.

It was beautifully written. Christopher Harlan has a way with words that will melt your heart.

I loved how Wesley spoke more formally and Mia more casually. Mixing it up was a nice touch.

The connection between Wesley and Mia was awesome and it’s hard to make love-at-first-sight believable but I felt it in this story.

Steamy scenes were onnnn pointtttt. (And written by a man. Hell yes.)

I’m so glad I read it and can’t wait to dive into book 2 and all of his other books!
Profile Image for Cassandra.
444 reviews
November 1, 2016
Puzzle Pieces
This is the first book by this up and coming writer, Christopher Harlan, and I can't wait to read more! If I didn't know that he was a new author, well, the book doesn't feel like it's written by a newbie! I won't give any spoilers, you really have to read this book! I absolutely loved this book! I couldn't wait to put my review up! Mia Careri and Wesley Marsden, meet in a coffee shop. She loves her job as special needs teacher. Wesley is a mysterious man. With a new relationship blooming, and all the secrets being kept, will Wesley reveal them all before their Mia decides she's had enough?




3,210 reviews67 followers
July 15, 2017
Well once again I am out of sync with other readers. This is a contemporary setting, and I expect reality but what I read was both boring and silly. So much telling, most of it boring and I just didn't care about either of them. The h is so selfish and demanding, and we are told over and over how she is great because she is special needs teacher. Yes, and she takes a man she has just met to children in her care and allows him to whisper to a child with special needs? Not even close to the real world. Then the H is rich, big, anxious, and so boring with his sad story. I just couldn't go on, it's a wall banger.
5 reviews
August 23, 2017
So good

First book for me by Christopher Harlan and will definitely not be the last. Love Mia and Wesley's story. I love the fact that so much is about real life. Panic attacks, anxiety and special needs of all kinds are so much a part of real life. Wesley had to overcome so much and his love for Mia really is what got him through some really rough situations.
Mia...I am in awe of her. She has so much dedication to her kids and is so passionate in her job and with Wesley.
Would maybe like to see more of these two maybe with kids of their own.
Great job Christopher!!!! Can't wait to start the next book.
Profile Image for Anna Hay.
46 reviews1 follower
February 8, 2018
Loved this book . Lost sleep because of this book. this is my first book by this author and it was worth every minute of lost sleep. Cannot wait to read the next book...or even read every book he writes. This story of Wesley and Mia was how I envision a relationship should be. The parts where she is all in her head and working out how not to let imaginary events take over, the parts where he is trying to let her in but can't seem to get past himself to that, how they both recognize and see that....this is how I picture it should be. I loved their story and how it moved, albeit quickly, I loved it.
Profile Image for Mardell Bonasso.
257 reviews
May 25, 2017
I enjoyed this book by Christopher Harlan very much. This author combined issues like anxiety disorders, high intelligence, special needs persons and traumatic life experiences into a well written book. Wesley and Mia's story had all the feels, some drama, heartache, happiness, humor, and sarcasm but mostly love. There were several times throughout the book that I needed tissues. I highly recommend Impressions of You if you are looking for a book that will give you that feel good feeling while taking on real life issues. I am looking forward to starting the next book soon.
Profile Image for Jeanette.
325 reviews10 followers
March 15, 2018
Right from the page one this story flowed well and grabbed your attention. If I didnt have to work yesterday this would have been a one sitting read for me. The relationship between Wesley and Mia became this complex thing fairly quickly and then you realize that there really isn't any other way it could be for these two people. I loved loved loved the epilogue! I look forward to reading more of Christopher Harlans work but I'm thinking I need to start them on my days off so all I need to do is read.
Profile Image for Mary Fazzi.
1,253 reviews10 followers
May 15, 2017
Swoon.

Wesley and Mia bump into each other in a coffee bar and start to get to know each other slowly at first. Mia was unsure about it till her 2 best friends told her to trust herself and she did. Wesley may have secrets but nothing that he would want to keep from Mia,but doesn't really know how to let go until it's almost to late. Loved the story and got caught right into it right away.
Profile Image for Faye.
348 reviews
July 24, 2017
Impressive story. I received this as a gift and am offering this review as an honest thank you. If you like your stories a little dark but not to dark. If you like your stories with a little intrigue and danger. You will like this story. It is sexy and so are the characters. The author keeps you guessing by not revealing to much of the characters true self until it is necessary. I enjoyed this story very much and have giving it 4 stars to show this. HEA Stand Alone.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 77 reviews

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