What do you think?
Rate this book
Love My Way
Duration: 08:35:11
Even without seeing her face, I know that the woman standing at the water’s edge is desperately sad. Her back is to me and her shoulders are slumped, perhaps heavy with regret. It kills me to know I am partly to blame, and for that reason alone, it’s impossible to look at her. Leaning against the rough trunk of the tree, I close my eyes. My life will forever begin and end with her, and I’m unable to witness her heart breaking.
Standing still is no longer an option, so I begin to pace. Is she still waiting for him or has he already left? Fear pools in my veins at the uncertainty. Above all else, I want her to be happy. If this is too hard, I’ll have to walk away again. I let out a long breath, frustrated by the whole situation.
Emerson Hart is the love of my life. Unfortunately, I’m not the only love of hers. And therein lies the problem.
Even without seeing her face, I know that the woman standing at the water’s edge is desperately sad. Her back is to me and her shoulders are slumped, perhaps heavy with regret. It kills me to know I am partly to blame, and for that reason alone, it’s impossible to look at her. Leaning against the rough trunk of the tree, I close my eyes. My life will forever begin and end with her, and I’m unable to witness her heart breaking.
Standing still is no longer an option, so I begin to pace. Is she still waiting for him or has he already left? Fear pools in my veins at the uncertainty. Above all else, I want her to be happy. If this is too hard, I’ll have to walk away again. I let out a long breath, frustrated by the whole situation.
Emerson Hart is the love of my life. Unfortunately, I’m not the only love of hers. And therein lies the problem.
Unknown Binding
First published May 13, 2017
165 people are currently reading
3166 people want to read
About the author
Kate Sterritt
6 books446 followersKate Sterritt lives in Sydney, Australia with her husband, three young sons and highly energetic German Shorthaired Pointer puppy.
When she’s not madly juggling the logistics of soccer trainings, play dates and volunteering at the school, she can be found at her laptop, writing the types of novels she loves to read. Her characters are inspired by her own experiences, blended with her imagination and a healthy dose of wishful thinking.
When she’s not madly juggling the logistics of soccer trainings, play dates and volunteering at the school, she can be found at her laptop, writing the types of novels she loves to read. Her characters are inspired by her own experiences, blended with her imagination and a healthy dose of wishful thinking.
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 465 reviews
February 25, 2020
Every once in a while, a book comes and shakes you to your core. This has been one of those books for me...
5 or more stars from the bottom of my heart...
There is such a beautiful madness and such a heart-breaking tragedy in it but the poetic way it is written engraves the story to your heart to stay there forever.
At least for me, this will always be among my favorite books.
Reading this book is a deeply emotional journey. It is beautifully written with great talent.
My book is full of highlights. It made me stop and think all the time.
There are very happy and very sad moments. It made me cry a lot in the last 25%. But believe me it was worth all my tears...
This is one of those books that stands out. It is not one like many.
• If you need a light and fun romance, this is not it.
• If you need a dark romance, this is definitely not it.
• If you need a hot book or erotica, this is not it.
This is a poem, a painting, a piece of music..
This is art that makes you FEEL!
It will most certainly make you an emotional mess...
Please please please don’t read any spoilers anywhere. Never uncover them!
If you follow my reviews and if you trust my judgement, just go in blind! Let it surprise you with its painful beauty.
For the first time maybe, I will not write anything about the plot. Whatever I say will be a spoiler.
So this time, I will only give teasers to mess with your mind so that I get your attention to this beautifully written book. (Sorry, but not sorry :))
We have 3 main characters in the book:
Mereki (Ki), Emerson and Josh.
You will love all the main characters in this book, the three of them will all win your heart.
Unfortunately, as we have two guys and one girl, it has a "bitter" HEA.
“Will you still come to the river on the nineteenth?” I ask. It comes out in a sob of anguish. I need him to nod. Just a tiny movement of his head to tell me he’ll do what we promised five years ago.
***
Mum snickered. “You’ll learn soon enough that all men leave. Doesn’t matter how pretty you are or how often you spread your legs.” Pain flashed across her bloodshot eyes. “Cash in with the rich boy while you can.”
“You’re wrong,” I whispered, surprised by how calm I felt. I could’ve told her Mereki and I were in love and that we were planning the rest of our lives, away from her and this town. I could’ve told her that we were soulmates and nothing would come between us. I could’ve said so many things, but I bit my tongue. She was bitter and twisted and I’d be wasting my breath. Silently, I thanked the stars for aligning, the river goddess or whoever led me down to the river all those years ago because what Mereki and I had was forever.
Being here with Josh just feels so incredibly right, even though I know I’m messing everything up with my dishonesty. It is breaking my heart, and my heart has suffered enough.
Josh falls into a deep sleep seconds after saying goodnight, completely sated.
I, on the other hand, am wide awake, alone with my guilt and tormented thoughts.
The day was too perfect.
Josh was too perfect.
I am a monster.
“Why doesn’t he know you have a boyfriend?” she asks in a stern tone.
I open my mouth to speak, then close it again.
“I left a big piece of me on that paper, and you’ve been holding it ever since.”
“I’ve waited for five long years without even knowing it.”
“I have so much to explain.”
“He’s searching for someone or something, and I think, deep down, I always knew I would never have been enough.” She takes a sip of her cider and sighs. “No one wants to be the consolation prize.”
***
“Look at me,” he says, propped up on his elbows on either side of my head. He uses both his hands to push my hair back from my face, then he leaves them there, cupping my cheeks. “Feel me deep inside you.”
I stare into his clear, green eyes and smile. “I feel all of you.”
***
All my serious relationships ended because I’ve been waiting for you without even realising.”
***
When I opened my eyes again, I was floating above my hospital bed, and all I could do was watch myself asleep.
This man wants me, and something tells me he isn’t into one-night stands or no-strings-attached flings. He strikes me as the long-term relationship kind of guy who isn’t afraid of commitment.
In different circumstances, perhaps I could be his happily-ever-after, but the fact is I am forever spoken for by another man.
I don’t know what game I’m playing at here, but I know I rolled the dice when I delivered those cupcakes to the gallery, and I’ve made increasingly strategic moves ever since.
“No one’s life is black and white. We all have grey areas - insecurities, flaws, imperfections, secrets. We’re all just human, and there’s a kind of beauty in that.”
YOU NOW THINK YOU'VE SORTED IT OUT, RIGHT?
WELL, NO, YOU HAVEN’T...
READ IT... PLEASE...
But I am warning you, it will tear your heart apart...
(You can pm me for safety questions but I'd rather you didn't know anything...)
5 or more stars from the bottom of my heart...
There is such a beautiful madness and such a heart-breaking tragedy in it but the poetic way it is written engraves the story to your heart to stay there forever.
At least for me, this will always be among my favorite books.
Reading this book is a deeply emotional journey. It is beautifully written with great talent.
My book is full of highlights. It made me stop and think all the time.
There are very happy and very sad moments. It made me cry a lot in the last 25%. But believe me it was worth all my tears...
This is one of those books that stands out. It is not one like many.
• If you need a light and fun romance, this is not it.
• If you need a dark romance, this is definitely not it.
• If you need a hot book or erotica, this is not it.
This is a poem, a painting, a piece of music..
This is art that makes you FEEL!
It will most certainly make you an emotional mess...
Please please please don’t read any spoilers anywhere. Never uncover them!
If you follow my reviews and if you trust my judgement, just go in blind! Let it surprise you with its painful beauty.
For the first time maybe, I will not write anything about the plot. Whatever I say will be a spoiler.
So this time, I will only give teasers to mess with your mind so that I get your attention to this beautifully written book. (Sorry, but not sorry :))
We have 3 main characters in the book:
Mereki (Ki), Emerson and Josh.
You will love all the main characters in this book, the three of them will all win your heart.
Unfortunately, as we have two guys and one girl, it has a "bitter" HEA.
“Will you still come to the river on the nineteenth?” I ask. It comes out in a sob of anguish. I need him to nod. Just a tiny movement of his head to tell me he’ll do what we promised five years ago.
***
Mum snickered. “You’ll learn soon enough that all men leave. Doesn’t matter how pretty you are or how often you spread your legs.” Pain flashed across her bloodshot eyes. “Cash in with the rich boy while you can.”
“You’re wrong,” I whispered, surprised by how calm I felt. I could’ve told her Mereki and I were in love and that we were planning the rest of our lives, away from her and this town. I could’ve told her that we were soulmates and nothing would come between us. I could’ve said so many things, but I bit my tongue. She was bitter and twisted and I’d be wasting my breath. Silently, I thanked the stars for aligning, the river goddess or whoever led me down to the river all those years ago because what Mereki and I had was forever.
Being here with Josh just feels so incredibly right, even though I know I’m messing everything up with my dishonesty. It is breaking my heart, and my heart has suffered enough.
Josh falls into a deep sleep seconds after saying goodnight, completely sated.
I, on the other hand, am wide awake, alone with my guilt and tormented thoughts.
The day was too perfect.
Josh was too perfect.
I am a monster.
“Why doesn’t he know you have a boyfriend?” she asks in a stern tone.
I open my mouth to speak, then close it again.
“I left a big piece of me on that paper, and you’ve been holding it ever since.”
“I’ve waited for five long years without even knowing it.”
“I have so much to explain.”
“He’s searching for someone or something, and I think, deep down, I always knew I would never have been enough.” She takes a sip of her cider and sighs. “No one wants to be the consolation prize.”
***
“Look at me,” he says, propped up on his elbows on either side of my head. He uses both his hands to push my hair back from my face, then he leaves them there, cupping my cheeks. “Feel me deep inside you.”
I stare into his clear, green eyes and smile. “I feel all of you.”
***
All my serious relationships ended because I’ve been waiting for you without even realising.”
***
When I opened my eyes again, I was floating above my hospital bed, and all I could do was watch myself asleep.
This man wants me, and something tells me he isn’t into one-night stands or no-strings-attached flings. He strikes me as the long-term relationship kind of guy who isn’t afraid of commitment.
In different circumstances, perhaps I could be his happily-ever-after, but the fact is I am forever spoken for by another man.
I don’t know what game I’m playing at here, but I know I rolled the dice when I delivered those cupcakes to the gallery, and I’ve made increasingly strategic moves ever since.
“No one’s life is black and white. We all have grey areas - insecurities, flaws, imperfections, secrets. We’re all just human, and there’s a kind of beauty in that.”
YOU NOW THINK YOU'VE SORTED IT OUT, RIGHT?
WELL, NO, YOU HAVEN’T...
READ IT... PLEASE...
But I am warning you, it will tear your heart apart...
(You can pm me for safety questions but I'd rather you didn't know anything...)
August 4, 2020
How the hell am I going to write a review that explains why I loved this book, without revealing why?! 😱😱😱
📚 “𝐍𝐞𝐯𝐞𝐫 𝐥𝐞𝐭 𝐲𝐨𝐮𝐫 𝐥𝐢𝐠𝐡𝐭 𝐝𝐢𝐞 𝐛𝐞𝐜𝐚𝐮𝐬𝐞 𝐢𝐭'𝐬 𝐠𝐨𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐭𝐨 𝐛𝐫𝐢𝐠𝐡𝐭𝐞𝐧 𝐦𝐨𝐫𝐞 𝐭𝐡𝐚𝐧 𝐣𝐮𝐬𝐭 𝐦𝐲 𝐰𝐨𝐫𝐥𝐝.” 📚
The plot has two parts - the past and the present - and it tells the unusual story of Emerson Hart. Emerson met Meriki (or Ki, for short) when she was only 10-year-old. They both immediately become friends and over the years, their friendship only intensified - Until it became a huge love... They had dreams and plans together, but sometimes life takes you in a different direction than you planned. 💥💥💥
Em has grown and changed. She lost herself and her way - until she met Josh, and her life begins to mend again ... but the guilt continues to hit her.
Emerson was privileged to experience two true loves. But to keep one, she has to say goodbye to the other. Which way will she choose...? 💙
📚 “𝐅𝐨𝐫 𝐚 𝐦𝐢𝐧𝐮𝐭𝐞 𝐨𝐫 𝐚 𝐥𝐢𝐟𝐞𝐭𝐢𝐦𝐞, 𝐬𝐨𝐦𝐞 𝐩𝐞𝐨𝐩𝐥𝐞 𝐭𝐫𝐲 𝐭𝐨 𝐜𝐥𝐢𝐩 𝐲𝐨𝐮𝐫 𝐰𝐢𝐧𝐠𝐬, 𝐰𝐡𝐢𝐥𝐞 𝐨𝐭𝐡𝐞𝐫𝐬 𝐡𝐞𝐥𝐩 𝐲𝐨𝐮 𝐥𝐞𝐚𝐫𝐧 𝐭𝐨 𝐟𝐥𝐲.” 📚
I must point out that I started the book "On Blind" in audio because I loved the cover - and I'm so glad I experienced the book this way. That's why I will not tell you more about the plot, because it's one of those books that you need experience yourself... but for those who need to know - no, this is NOT a romantic love triangle!!! 😂
To be honest, while listening I was sure I would give it 3 stars, not because it was boring, but because it did not renew anything to me... but then, it surprised me so much that I just had to change my rating! 😱💙👏
This book was a journey of self-discovery, healing, growth and love. It's not easy - it's emotional, deep, complex... and it totally took me by surprise. 🙏
• I listened to the AUDIO version. 🎧
▪️▫️▪️▫️▪️▫️▪️▫️▪️▫️▪️▫️▪️▫️▪️▫️
📖 ᖴOᒪᒪOᗯ ᗰE Oᑎ IᑎᔕTᗩGᖇᗩᗰ: https://www.instagram.com/the_romanti...
📖 ᐯIᔕIT ᗰY ᗷᒪOG ᖴOᖇ ᗰOᖇE ᖇEᐯIEᗯᔕ: https://books-romance.com/
📖 GOOᗪᖇEᗩᗪᔕ: https://bit.ly/3acMRMP
💕 לקריאת הסקירה בעברית, כנסו לבלוג: https://books-romance.com/ 💕
June 1, 2017
REVIEW ALSO ON MY BLOG Kitty Kats Crazy About Books
LOVE MY WAY: Is a standalone romance novel by Kate Sterritt and is a new to me author but definitely won’t be the last. Set up in two parts, First we’re in the ‘Present’ then as memories assault her we’re thrown into the past ‘Ten year old Emerson’
What drew me to this first was the cover it definitely caught my eye, it’s gorgeous, then the synopsis hooked me more into wanting to read this and I know by that, that it’s setting me up for some sort of an emotional ride.
We start off in Present time we meet Emerson who has recently been employed at ‘Carries Cupcakes’ slowly chapter by chapter we see her slowly coming back to life again.
Then it swiftly jumps to the past as she reminisces (Emerson at Ten Years Old) about the boy who understood her more than she understood herself. He was just a boy who became her best friend He is, always has been, and always will be, my everything. and she was just a girl who wanted to be as free as a feather floating away on the air, a young girl focused on art, who one day wanted to be a famous artist. She created designs out of river stones ranging in size and colour. A story without words
Age Seventeen: Slowly their friendship becomes blurred as they fought their attraction. He was my compass and, with him by my side, I would never be lost again.
➽ I placed my hand on the page and imagined the feathers flying in the breeze, floating over the markets, over the town, and up into the blue skies, blurred white by the wispy clouds above.
➽ “For a minute or a lifetime, some people try to clip your wings, while others help you learn to fly.."
Fuck me sideways and then back again, going by the synopsis I was prepared to get pulled into a love triangle, and throughout the book I really thought that's what was going to come at me, but believe me when I say there is no cheating of any sorts in this book, that's the only thing I'm going to say because I don't want to wreck it for readers after me.
Being honest I was set at rating this 4 stars and I was happy with that rating, but then I'm coming up to the finish in this book and my world just crumbled down around my ears and I'm thrown head first into an emotional, gut wrenching, heart stopping journey that I seriously did not see coming.
Reading through blurry eyes was hard, the chant through my head was like a broken record 'do not cry, do not cry, do not cry' to no avail drip after drip cascaded down my face.
➽ Let's make a pact to come back here on this sunset every five years, no matter what.
How often do we have soul mates come into our lives? Emerson is one of the lucky ones, though she doesn't see it like that, you see she's had two soul mates come into her life, but to keep one she has to say goodbye to the other. A heartfelt journey, a new beginning, a journey of self discovery.
November 25, 2017
Wow okay, it's 2.40 am in Turkey and I literally read this book in one sitting. 😀 Story began very slow but then it turned out a crazy ride. I absolutely LOVED it very much. 🙂
Ps. Dilek, my sweet angel. Thank you for the recommendation. And thanks a lot for put up my crazy messages in the middle of the night... I love you babe. 😘
You can read her amazing book review in here... 🤗
https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
June 5, 2017
3.75 Stars
June 3, 2017
5 Stars!!
READ THIS BOOK. OMG!!! I feel like I found a hidden gem with this book and I just want to shout from the rooftops how amazing it is! Scratch that, it's BEYOND Amazing! I want everyone to read it so I can hug you and we can talk about it so, do yourself a favor and buy this book!! You won't be sorry.
This author is a new author to me and she writes so vividly and so bright! She portrays her characters in such a unique and beautiful way that it's hard to look away from the page. The character development is great and I just wanted to soak up all the words, it makes you feel like the author is an artist herself and she's just relaying that to the reader, and that felt very organic and really cool. This story is so refreshing and at the same time, brimming with poignancy throughout the whole book. I could feel the heartbreak just below the surface and the angst of the unknown gets me EVERY. TIME. I couldn't look away!
Emerson is an artist and the author takes you through such a kaleidoscope of words, through her childhood and her more difficult adult life. We go through past and present and she shares a little piece of her journey while she was a young girl meeting a young boy and sharing something very special together. What would seem like normal things like fishing and placing pebbles in the ground, catapults to another level and takes you on this beautiful journey of understanding these characters worlds. The past is young love at its finest and the present is the hard realities of life, temptation, and hope. The way these two worlds were combined was absolutely captivating. I could not put it down! Emerson tells us stories with no words and this author takes those stories and transforms them into a stunning story that had me aching to see if this artwork was real. Does it exist somewhere? Because I'm dying to see it, that's how transformative the writing is. Simply amazing.
Emerson has two men in her life. And the complexity of that and what they mean to her are just that. Complex. There are so many different nuances and subtle twists and turns, and I can't reveal what I'm feeling completely because I don't want to spoil this book. Because EVERYTHING that happens is meaningful and connected to a different part of Emerson's story. It's like a puzzle that slowly gets revealed through ah-ha moments and tears and content smiles. As a reader, this is everything I wanted in a book and more. I cried for these characters and rooted them on and my investment to them is solid and real. It's not often a book moves me in such a way, but this book did. I actually felt my chest aching at one point and all I could mutter was unintelligible sounds. I didn't want an HEA for a specific couple, which is a first for me. I mean yes, I was rooting for someone specific, but I wanted an HEA for Emerson because I felt SO connected to her character. I wanted her choices to be made for HER and her alone and I LOVE that I felt that way. I crave to feel that way!
So thank you Kate Sterritt, for your beautiful words and intoxicating story. Your book gives me hope that I will continue to read GREAT books in the future. PLEASE everyone read this book! You will not be sorry, and if you aren't as moved as I am, I'd be in shock. 5 SHINING STARS!
READ THIS BOOK. OMG!!! I feel like I found a hidden gem with this book and I just want to shout from the rooftops how amazing it is! Scratch that, it's BEYOND Amazing! I want everyone to read it so I can hug you and we can talk about it so, do yourself a favor and buy this book!! You won't be sorry.
This author is a new author to me and she writes so vividly and so bright! She portrays her characters in such a unique and beautiful way that it's hard to look away from the page. The character development is great and I just wanted to soak up all the words, it makes you feel like the author is an artist herself and she's just relaying that to the reader, and that felt very organic and really cool. This story is so refreshing and at the same time, brimming with poignancy throughout the whole book. I could feel the heartbreak just below the surface and the angst of the unknown gets me EVERY. TIME. I couldn't look away!
Emerson is an artist and the author takes you through such a kaleidoscope of words, through her childhood and her more difficult adult life. We go through past and present and she shares a little piece of her journey while she was a young girl meeting a young boy and sharing something very special together. What would seem like normal things like fishing and placing pebbles in the ground, catapults to another level and takes you on this beautiful journey of understanding these characters worlds. The past is young love at its finest and the present is the hard realities of life, temptation, and hope. The way these two worlds were combined was absolutely captivating. I could not put it down! Emerson tells us stories with no words and this author takes those stories and transforms them into a stunning story that had me aching to see if this artwork was real. Does it exist somewhere? Because I'm dying to see it, that's how transformative the writing is. Simply amazing.
Emerson has two men in her life. And the complexity of that and what they mean to her are just that. Complex. There are so many different nuances and subtle twists and turns, and I can't reveal what I'm feeling completely because I don't want to spoil this book. Because EVERYTHING that happens is meaningful and connected to a different part of Emerson's story. It's like a puzzle that slowly gets revealed through ah-ha moments and tears and content smiles. As a reader, this is everything I wanted in a book and more. I cried for these characters and rooted them on and my investment to them is solid and real. It's not often a book moves me in such a way, but this book did. I actually felt my chest aching at one point and all I could mutter was unintelligible sounds. I didn't want an HEA for a specific couple, which is a first for me. I mean yes, I was rooting for someone specific, but I wanted an HEA for Emerson because I felt SO connected to her character. I wanted her choices to be made for HER and her alone and I LOVE that I felt that way. I crave to feel that way!
So thank you Kate Sterritt, for your beautiful words and intoxicating story. Your book gives me hope that I will continue to read GREAT books in the future. PLEASE everyone read this book! You will not be sorry, and if you aren't as moved as I am, I'd be in shock. 5 SHINING STARS!
September 19, 2018
****Finally got my act together and read this one. It's been on my TBR list for ages. I really enjoyed it.
RTC****
March 7, 2018
" I don't know who I am anymore" " I'm going to help you find out"
5 brilliant and nearly DNF stars
Plot: ****** ( never saw it coming)
Female MC: ***** ( even if I was "How dare she do this??? It's wrong. But...SURPRISE!)
Males characters: ***** ( I have a fav but no telling)
Romance: ****** (sweet, hot...complicated and heart wrenching)
Trigger: ........(no spoiling go in blind)
Writing: ****/2 stars (flows effortlessly)
Kate seriously how do you want us to review spoiler free with such a blurb? You don't make it easy for reviewes but neither did you for your readers!
Here is the deal: I have so much to say about the characters, the story , the plot but I'll willingly barely skim some.parts as I want you to experience it like I did: going blind!
But how am I to let you know if this book is for you or not?
Let me tell you a little story here.
I bought this book at RARE London. I had never read anything written by Kate ( but had drooled on the cover). In the queue my friend Jennifer told me that "I had to read Love My Way!!". She was pretty insistant.
So I went to Kate's table and told her that "I had never read anything by her but my friend made me.do it. So could she sell me the book and sign it pretty please, with a cherry on top?"
Kate has been genuinely charming and sweet telling me to read with an open mind.
Well I took her advice to heart and I really had to hold on tight to my trust in Jennifer and Kate because this book hit a huge trigger of mine.
But...
It was bloody brilliant!!!
Emerson is someone you will instantly relate to. She is sweet and strong. A chance encounter at an art market will catapult her life on a whole new trajectory.
I'm a firm.believer in life altering encounters. Sometimes words by someone passing by, a look, a quote can resonate deep in our soul and change our path.
Emerson will find her calling and will lose it for years. She will experience perfect hapiness to be thrown into a pit of sadness. Going through life drifting through fog. Not really living.
And I was sad with her.
Then anothet encounter will have her live again. Her emotions were in turmoil and so was I. I was...conflicted like Emerson. Then angry. Very angry and ready to stop reading. And...BAM!
Never saw it coming!
It's a character driven story with a stunning plot. Kate Sterrit took a huge risk with this one.
When I told her I nearly DNF (because you bet that I reached for her as soon as I finished!) she told me that she knew the risks but she had to write the story "her way".
So go into this story "my way": blind and trusting.
PS: The good news is that Kate Sterritt is a new to me author so this is my book for March #UltimateReadingChallenge!
Have you read this book? Or any book written by Kate Sterritt?
Thanks for reading and happy Wednesday!
Sophie
Wordpress: Beware Of The Reader
Facebook: Beware Of The Reader
Instagram: @bewareofthereader
Twitter: @BewareOffReader
5 brilliant and nearly DNF stars
Plot: ****** ( never saw it coming)
Female MC: ***** ( even if I was "How dare she do this??? It's wrong. But...SURPRISE!)
Males characters: ***** ( I have a fav but no telling)
Romance: ****** (sweet, hot...complicated and heart wrenching)
Trigger: ........(no spoiling go in blind)
Writing: ****/2 stars (flows effortlessly)
Kate seriously how do you want us to review spoiler free with such a blurb? You don't make it easy for reviewes but neither did you for your readers!
Here is the deal: I have so much to say about the characters, the story , the plot but I'll willingly barely skim some.parts as I want you to experience it like I did: going blind!
But how am I to let you know if this book is for you or not?
Let me tell you a little story here.
I bought this book at RARE London. I had never read anything written by Kate ( but had drooled on the cover). In the queue my friend Jennifer told me that "I had to read Love My Way!!". She was pretty insistant.
So I went to Kate's table and told her that "I had never read anything by her but my friend made me.do it. So could she sell me the book and sign it pretty please, with a cherry on top?"
Kate has been genuinely charming and sweet telling me to read with an open mind.
Well I took her advice to heart and I really had to hold on tight to my trust in Jennifer and Kate because this book hit a huge trigger of mine.
But...
It was bloody brilliant!!!
Emerson is someone you will instantly relate to. She is sweet and strong. A chance encounter at an art market will catapult her life on a whole new trajectory.
I'm a firm.believer in life altering encounters. Sometimes words by someone passing by, a look, a quote can resonate deep in our soul and change our path.
Emerson will find her calling and will lose it for years. She will experience perfect hapiness to be thrown into a pit of sadness. Going through life drifting through fog. Not really living.
And I was sad with her.
Then anothet encounter will have her live again. Her emotions were in turmoil and so was I. I was...conflicted like Emerson. Then angry. Very angry and ready to stop reading. And...BAM!
Never saw it coming!
It's a character driven story with a stunning plot. Kate Sterrit took a huge risk with this one.
When I told her I nearly DNF (because you bet that I reached for her as soon as I finished!) she told me that she knew the risks but she had to write the story "her way".
So go into this story "my way": blind and trusting.
PS: The good news is that Kate Sterritt is a new to me author so this is my book for March #UltimateReadingChallenge!
Have you read this book? Or any book written by Kate Sterritt?
Thanks for reading and happy Wednesday!
Sophie
Wordpress: Beware Of The Reader
Facebook: Beware Of The Reader
Instagram: @bewareofthereader
Twitter: @BewareOffReader
November 30, 2020
Sometimes the Way has more than one path.
I finished Love My Way this morning and went for a walk with hubby. I was a little emotionally fragile. How the heck was I going to write a review explaining why this story was so good without telling why it was so good. So, I asked hubby. I gave him some ideas of what I was going to say and he was very against them ALL. Too much information, they don’t need to know that and how the hell will that help…were a few of his responses. So, I came home, decided to take a leaf out of Love My Way and sat by some water (backyard pool) with my laptop and let the water guide me.
Well, it was soothing sitting by my pool but not so helpful in getting the words out.
Hubby was not helpful whatsoever, no inspiration from water flowing…I guess I’ll just have to wing it.
Love My Way was an emotional journey. We are shown a path that looks right and set in stone become a path that leads to another. I couldn't help but think we all start out with dreams and ambitions to follow a certain path. Bad things happen, good things happen…life happens. That certain path you thought was the right way, goes bush. You must then accept that the right way was the right way up till the point when it's not.
Sometimes we deal well with our paths being diverted and other times we timidly walk, hoping that the new direction will lead to better things. A false start doesn’t have to mean the end, you just accept that it’s the wrong path and look for the laneway that leads you to the right way. This story is all about finding and loving the right way when one road ends.
Kate Sterritt is a wonderful author. Her words flowed beautifully. It was a pleasure to experience her words and see the story she’s trying to tell. Kate Sterritt is my kind of Aussie author. Love My Way is set in Australia but there’s no *A dingo took my baby*, *Dinky-di* or *throw another shrimp on the barbie*, thank goodness. It’s real. Australia has feral and dodgy people but we also have educated minds, artistic brilliance and style. Like many countries, we are made up of different cultures, beliefs and education. I loved that I felt at home reading this story.
I thoroughly enjoyed Love My Way emotional gut punches and all. I will definitely be reading more from this author in the future.
Stacey is Sassy, received an advanced copy of this story. The copy provided is not the final copy and may be subject to edits and changes.
I finished Love My Way this morning and went for a walk with hubby. I was a little emotionally fragile. How the heck was I going to write a review explaining why this story was so good without telling why it was so good. So, I asked hubby. I gave him some ideas of what I was going to say and he was very against them ALL. Too much information, they don’t need to know that and how the hell will that help…were a few of his responses. So, I came home, decided to take a leaf out of Love My Way and sat by some water (backyard pool) with my laptop and let the water guide me.
Well, it was soothing sitting by my pool but not so helpful in getting the words out.
Hubby was not helpful whatsoever, no inspiration from water flowing…I guess I’ll just have to wing it.
Love My Way was an emotional journey. We are shown a path that looks right and set in stone become a path that leads to another. I couldn't help but think we all start out with dreams and ambitions to follow a certain path. Bad things happen, good things happen…life happens. That certain path you thought was the right way, goes bush. You must then accept that the right way was the right way up till the point when it's not.
Sometimes we deal well with our paths being diverted and other times we timidly walk, hoping that the new direction will lead to better things. A false start doesn’t have to mean the end, you just accept that it’s the wrong path and look for the laneway that leads you to the right way. This story is all about finding and loving the right way when one road ends.
Kate Sterritt is a wonderful author. Her words flowed beautifully. It was a pleasure to experience her words and see the story she’s trying to tell. Kate Sterritt is my kind of Aussie author. Love My Way is set in Australia but there’s no *A dingo took my baby*, *Dinky-di* or *throw another shrimp on the barbie*, thank goodness. It’s real. Australia has feral and dodgy people but we also have educated minds, artistic brilliance and style. Like many countries, we are made up of different cultures, beliefs and education. I loved that I felt at home reading this story.
I thoroughly enjoyed Love My Way emotional gut punches and all. I will definitely be reading more from this author in the future.
Stacey is Sassy, received an advanced copy of this story. The copy provided is not the final copy and may be subject to edits and changes.
July 30, 2017
4 - 4.5 ★'s
"In this world and the next."
From reading the blurb, I was really intrigued but it wasn't until I finished the book that I actually understood it. So, that speaks volumes and should have prepared me for this book but it didn't.
The book is broken up into two parts - with scenes from the past and the present so it takes a bit to figures things out. I really enjoyed getting to know Mereki and Emerson and I loved how their relationship grew.
Emerson's life isn't always easy. Her mom and stepbrother are pretty horrible so she stays away from them as much as she can. One day, she finds herself in a market and gravitates towards some artists. From that moment on, she is hooked.
She decides to create something for herself and heads down to an isolated area near the river. Soon Mereki shows up and instead of harassing her, he starts helping her and their friendship is formed. Over the next seven years, they become closer and closer, eventually becoming boyfriend/girlfriend. They bring out the best in each other.
Unfortunately, after an amazing afternoon, tragedy strikes and nothing will ever be the same for either Mereki or Emerson.
Part Two stays mainly in the present, almost five years after Part One ends. Mereki and Emerson have been trying to move forward but things are not the same. Emerson has shunned her art and moves from job to job.
Her current job as a cupcake maker introduces her to Josh, an artist who also runs an art healing program. He tries to get Emerson to come to his class but it takes almost a whole year to do so. He slowly gets her involved and you can really see her coming out of her shell. And while she's attracted to Josh, there's Mereki to think about.
The twist is pretty crazy but IMO fairly obvious. I just wasn't sure how Emerson got to this point. It was made more difficult the closer she got to Josh and I was wondering if this was a good thing or not!
When the truth comes out, everyone is upset and Josh is just not sure if he can handle it. I really thought Emerson was brave for going through with things. And I loved how it ended.
And the epilogue...it was perfection!
"In this world and the next."
From reading the blurb, I was really intrigued but it wasn't until I finished the book that I actually understood it. So, that speaks volumes and should have prepared me for this book but it didn't.
The book is broken up into two parts - with scenes from the past and the present so it takes a bit to figures things out. I really enjoyed getting to know Mereki and Emerson and I loved how their relationship grew.
Emerson's life isn't always easy. Her mom and stepbrother are pretty horrible so she stays away from them as much as she can. One day, she finds herself in a market and gravitates towards some artists. From that moment on, she is hooked.
She decides to create something for herself and heads down to an isolated area near the river. Soon Mereki shows up and instead of harassing her, he starts helping her and their friendship is formed. Over the next seven years, they become closer and closer, eventually becoming boyfriend/girlfriend. They bring out the best in each other.
Unfortunately, after an amazing afternoon, tragedy strikes and nothing will ever be the same for either Mereki or Emerson.
Part Two stays mainly in the present, almost five years after Part One ends. Mereki and Emerson have been trying to move forward but things are not the same. Emerson has shunned her art and moves from job to job.
Her current job as a cupcake maker introduces her to Josh, an artist who also runs an art healing program. He tries to get Emerson to come to his class but it takes almost a whole year to do so. He slowly gets her involved and you can really see her coming out of her shell. And while she's attracted to Josh, there's Mereki to think about.
The twist is pretty crazy but IMO fairly obvious. I just wasn't sure how Emerson got to this point. It was made more difficult the closer she got to Josh and I was wondering if this was a good thing or not!
When the truth comes out, everyone is upset and Josh is just not sure if he can handle it. I really thought Emerson was brave for going through with things. And I loved how it ended.
And the epilogue...it was perfection!
June 5, 2017
5+++++ TOP FAVORITE stars!
"For a minute or a lifetime, some people try to clip your wings, while others help you learn to fly."
Que livro mais maravilhoso e lindo, com certeza entrou pra minha lista de favoritos do ano!!! <3
Muito bem escrito e com uma narrativa super envolvente e tão deliciosa... não teve outro jeito, a não ser me apaixonar por TUDO!!!
"No one’s life is black and white. We all have grey areas—insecurities, flaws, imperfections, secrets. We’re all just human, and there’s a kind of beauty in that."
Foi tão bem contado que me senti ali do ladinho dos personagens, vivenciando, sentindo e amando. E o que não faltou foi sentimento... ai ai meu coração!
Terminei esse livro com um super sorriso no rosto e uma felicidade enorme por ter lido.
Recomendo muito, demais, demais!!!! <3 <3
Amei, amei, amei!!!! <3
"You’re my shining light whenever the world is dark. Never let your light die because it’s going to brighten more than just my world."
"For a minute or a lifetime, some people try to clip your wings, while others help you learn to fly."
Que livro mais maravilhoso e lindo, com certeza entrou pra minha lista de favoritos do ano!!! <3
Muito bem escrito e com uma narrativa super envolvente e tão deliciosa... não teve outro jeito, a não ser me apaixonar por TUDO!!!
"No one’s life is black and white. We all have grey areas—insecurities, flaws, imperfections, secrets. We’re all just human, and there’s a kind of beauty in that."
Foi tão bem contado que me senti ali do ladinho dos personagens, vivenciando, sentindo e amando. E o que não faltou foi sentimento... ai ai meu coração!
Terminei esse livro com um super sorriso no rosto e uma felicidade enorme por ter lido.
Recomendo muito, demais, demais!!!! <3 <3
Amei, amei, amei!!!! <3
"You’re my shining light whenever the world is dark. Never let your light die because it’s going to brighten more than just my world."
June 23, 2017
I read Love My Way in one sitting. Couldn't put it down whatsoever! What a beautiful and emotional love story. That's what Love My Way is. A love story of epic proportions but damn how my heart hurt throughout most of it. I felt so uncomfortable at times because the pain felt so vivid. Emerson's journey was so breathtaking and heartbreaking that I hurt along with her.
Emerson's journey was truly about introspection, about loving herself and finding her way back. To her loves and the things she was passionate about.
I can't and won't say too much about this story cause it will ruin your experience.
Kate Sterritt blew me away with her impeccable prose and storytelling. I instantly connected with Emerson and almost felt that I lived vicariously through her. The story flashbacked to Emerson's childhood and it worked perfectly. My connection to her and her journey only intensified.
Love My Way was definitely a surprise. A wonderful and angsty one but I loved every moment, minute and word of it. A must read.
5 BadAssDirtyPebblesStars
Emerson's journey was truly about introspection, about loving herself and finding her way back. To her loves and the things she was passionate about.
I can't and won't say too much about this story cause it will ruin your experience.
Kate Sterritt blew me away with her impeccable prose and storytelling. I instantly connected with Emerson and almost felt that I lived vicariously through her. The story flashbacked to Emerson's childhood and it worked perfectly. My connection to her and her journey only intensified.
Love My Way was definitely a surprise. A wonderful and angsty one but I loved every moment, minute and word of it. A must read.
5 BadAssDirtyPebblesStars
June 3, 2017
*SPOILER-FREE*
“For a minute or a lifetime, some people try to clip your wings, while others help you learn to fly.”
Wow didn’t this -new to us Author-, Kate Sterritt just steal our book loving hearts with this incredibly well written, emotionally intense and heart-breaking story. Where there’s love, there’s hope, even in the bleakest moments of grief and suffering and we felt every single moment. We fell in love with this Author and her characters, not wanting to put this book down for anything.
“Ki,” I said, waiting until he faced me.
“What?” He met my gaze.
“I’m really glad you found me.”
The corner of his mouth curled into a smile. “I didn’t know you were lost.”
“Neither did I.”
There was a sombre yet stunning melancholy threaded through the pages which led us through Emerson’s journey, as we learnt of her childhood and her incredible friendship and love affair with a wonderful boy, Mereki, spanning difficult years. Two youngsters being the light in the others’ world. The power behind their relationship was the kind that burrows under your skin and rushes through aiming straight for the heart. Poignancy and life changing moments painted the pages as the light faded.
“Say it with your whole heart and mean it. Say it because it’s your greatest gift to me, to our memory, and most importantly, to you.”
We learn how the impact of tragedy marred Emerson’s present. Whilst we knew the sadness was there and we knew what was most probably going to transpire, we did not know where the hope and healing was coming from. Until we did. And we found it to be through love, compassion and inspiration from a man who lives and breathes the powerful quality of art and expression. Beautiful characters, each with an important message to convey.
“Every day for months, I’d draw…It was something tangible and completely personal. I allowed my grief to bleed out of me onto the paper, and it helped.”
A heart incinerated by circumstance can heal even whilst being consumed by an all-encompassing love that will never lose its grip. It’s the love and light which is let in that can live side by side and bring the heart its survival. This is a story of the innocence of love and the after effects of grief. It’s a story of survival, acceptance and willingness to see love in more than one place. To open your heart to others and let hope and life blossom. It was quite simply beautiful.
‘You’re my shining light whenever the world is dark. Never let your light die because it’s going to brighten more than just my world.’
Available to purchase below
Amazon US
Amazon UK
Come visit and follow us at:
✲ TotallybookedBlog
✲ TB on Facebook
✲ TB on Twitter
✲ TB on Pinterest
June 20, 2017
*4.5 Stars - SPOILER-FREE*
“For a minute or a lifetime, some people try to clip your wings, while others help you learn to fly.”
Wow didn’t this -new to us Author-, Kate Sterritt just steal our book loving hearts with this incredibly well written, emotionally intense and heart-breaking story. Where there’s love, there’s hope, even in the bleakest moments of grief and suffering and we felt every single moment. We fell in love with this Author and her characters, not wanting to put this book down for anything.
“Ki,” I said, waiting until he faced me.
“What?” He met my gaze.
“I’m really glad you found me.”
The corner of his mouth curled into a smile. “I didn’t know you were lost.”
“Neither did I.”
There was a sombre yet stunning melancholy threaded through the pages which led us through Emerson’s journey, as we learnt of her childhood and her incredible friendship and love affair with a wonderful boy, Mereki, spanning difficult years. Two youngsters being the light in the others’ world. The power behind their relationship was the kind that burrows under your skin and rushes through aiming straight for the heart. Poignancy and life changing moments painted the pages as the light faded.
“Say it with your whole heart and mean it. Say it because it’s your greatest gift to me, to our memory, and most importantly, to you.”
We learn how the impact of tragedy marred Emerson’s present. Whilst we knew the sadness was there and we knew what was most probably going to transpire, we did not know where the hope and healing was coming from. Until we did. And we found it to be through love, compassion and inspiration from a man who lives and breathes the powerful quality of art and expression. Beautiful characters, each with an important message to convey...... Click here for full review at TBB
Available to purchase below
Amazon US
Amazon UK
Come visit and follow us at:
✲ TotallybookedBlog
✲ TB on Facebook
✲ TB on Twitter
✲ TB on Pinterest
May 1, 2018
4. 75 stars!
I read blurb, but otherwise I went into reading on blind. I didn't want to make early assumption or maybe to see some spoilers. And I am happy I didn't. I didn't see this coming, it took me by total surprise. This is just this kind of book where you must read it without any notice.
It's hearthbreaking story about love and accepting life as it is.
I read blurb, but otherwise I went into reading on blind. I didn't want to make early assumption or maybe to see some spoilers. And I am happy I didn't. I didn't see this coming, it took me by total surprise. This is just this kind of book where you must read it without any notice.
It's hearthbreaking story about love and accepting life as it is.
July 10, 2017
English / Português
5 stars
“For a minute or a lifetime, some people try to clip your wings, while others help you learn to fly.”
This author is new to me, I didn't know her work and now I'm in love with her writing style. I expected a book I would suffer, but I didn't think it would suprise me. It is difficult for an author to impress us nowadays, but this one succeeded.
I read many types of romance novels but THIS ... This is my favorite. The one that makes me really feel everything, that pulls all kinds of feeling from me.
Maybe someone will figure out everything really soon, but for me the book had the effect that I believe was exactly what the author wanted, which she planned. I followed it straight. I judged. I cheered. I doubted it. I was kinda set on the fence. But Kate Sterritt was brilliant. She was able to make me smile and cry so so sooo much.
LOVE MY WAY is the kind of book that will destroy your heart and then mend it. It will put you in the dark and then show you that the colors were there. You were the one that didn't noticed.
This is a heartbroken story, however is also beautiful. In the end I felt like this girl on the cover. Looking nowhere. Contemplating and sighing. But pleased to have received such an exciting story.
For sure is on my Top 10 of 2017. I recommend it from the bottom of my heart.
“I’m really glad you found me.” The corner of his mouth curled into a smile.
“I didn’t know you were lost.”
“Neither did I.”
---------
English/ Português
5 estrelas
“Por um minuto ou uma vida inteira, algumas pessoas tentam cortar suas asas, enquanto outros irão te ajudar a aprender a voar.”
Essa autora é nova pra mim, não conhecia seu trabalho e agora tô apaixonada pelo seu jeito de escrever. Eu esperava um livro sofrência, mas mais do mesmo. É difícil um autor hoje em dia nos impressionar, mas essa conseguiu.
Eu leio vários tipos de romances mas ESSE... Esse tipo é o meu favorito. O que me faz realmente sentir tudo, que arranca de mim todo tipo de sentimento.
Talvez não impressione alguns, mas comigo o livro teve o efeito que eu acredito que era exatamente o que a autora queria, que planejou. Eu segui direitinho. Eu julguei. Eu torci. Eu duvidei. Eu fiquei em cima do muro. Mas a Kate Sterritt foi brilhante. Arrancou de mim sorrisos e arrancou de mim muitas muitas muitas lágrimas.
LOVE MY WAY é o tipo de livro que vai destruir seu coração e depois remendá-lo. Vai te colocar na escuridão para depois te mostrar que as cores estavam ali. Você que não tinha reparado.
História sofrida, entretanto linda. No final me senti como essa garota da capa. Olhando pra nada. Contemplando e suspirando. Mas satisfeita de ter recebido uma história tão emocionante como essa.
Com certeza tá no top 10 de 2017. Recomendo do fundo do coração.
“Estou muito feliz que você me achou" O canto da boca dele virou se tornando um sorriso.
“Não sabia que você estava perdida.”
“Nem eu.”
* trechos com tradução livre.
----------------------
* Pick a Book
facebook / instagram / twitter
pb.responde@gmail.com
5 stars
“For a minute or a lifetime, some people try to clip your wings, while others help you learn to fly.”
This author is new to me, I didn't know her work and now I'm in love with her writing style. I expected a book I would suffer, but I didn't think it would suprise me. It is difficult for an author to impress us nowadays, but this one succeeded.
I read many types of romance novels but THIS ... This is my favorite. The one that makes me really feel everything, that pulls all kinds of feeling from me.
Maybe someone will figure out everything really soon, but for me the book had the effect that I believe was exactly what the author wanted, which she planned. I followed it straight. I judged. I cheered. I doubted it. I was kinda set on the fence. But Kate Sterritt was brilliant. She was able to make me smile and cry so so sooo much.
LOVE MY WAY is the kind of book that will destroy your heart and then mend it. It will put you in the dark and then show you that the colors were there. You were the one that didn't noticed.
This is a heartbroken story, however is also beautiful. In the end I felt like this girl on the cover. Looking nowhere. Contemplating and sighing. But pleased to have received such an exciting story.
For sure is on my Top 10 of 2017. I recommend it from the bottom of my heart.
“I’m really glad you found me.” The corner of his mouth curled into a smile.
“I didn’t know you were lost.”
“Neither did I.”
---------
English/ Português
5 estrelas
“Por um minuto ou uma vida inteira, algumas pessoas tentam cortar suas asas, enquanto outros irão te ajudar a aprender a voar.”
Essa autora é nova pra mim, não conhecia seu trabalho e agora tô apaixonada pelo seu jeito de escrever. Eu esperava um livro sofrência, mas mais do mesmo. É difícil um autor hoje em dia nos impressionar, mas essa conseguiu.
Eu leio vários tipos de romances mas ESSE... Esse tipo é o meu favorito. O que me faz realmente sentir tudo, que arranca de mim todo tipo de sentimento.
Talvez não impressione alguns, mas comigo o livro teve o efeito que eu acredito que era exatamente o que a autora queria, que planejou. Eu segui direitinho. Eu julguei. Eu torci. Eu duvidei. Eu fiquei em cima do muro. Mas a Kate Sterritt foi brilhante. Arrancou de mim sorrisos e arrancou de mim muitas muitas muitas lágrimas.
LOVE MY WAY é o tipo de livro que vai destruir seu coração e depois remendá-lo. Vai te colocar na escuridão para depois te mostrar que as cores estavam ali. Você que não tinha reparado.
História sofrida, entretanto linda. No final me senti como essa garota da capa. Olhando pra nada. Contemplando e suspirando. Mas satisfeita de ter recebido uma história tão emocionante como essa.
Com certeza tá no top 10 de 2017. Recomendo do fundo do coração.
“Estou muito feliz que você me achou" O canto da boca dele virou se tornando um sorriso.
“Não sabia que você estava perdida.”
“Nem eu.”
* trechos com tradução livre.
----------------------
* Pick a Book
facebook / instagram / twitter
pb.responde@gmail.com
June 6, 2017
5 * Kalimna * estrelas
Uauuu que livro cheio de emoções, sensibilidade, dor e muito amor.
A história é linda, com o coração aos prantos, torcia pela felicidade de 3 personagens, mal sabia eu que iria sofrer ainda e muito.
Não falerei mais, pois essa história tu sente.
Ahhh *suspiros* e que bela de uma história essa é.
"No one's life is black and white. We all have grey areas - insecurities, flaws, imperfections, secrets. We're all just human, and there's a kind of beauty in that. "
Uauuu que livro cheio de emoções, sensibilidade, dor e muito amor.
A história é linda, com o coração aos prantos, torcia pela felicidade de 3 personagens, mal sabia eu que iria sofrer ainda e muito.
Não falerei mais, pois essa história tu sente.
Ahhh *suspiros* e que bela de uma história essa é.
"No one's life is black and white. We all have grey areas - insecurities, flaws, imperfections, secrets. We're all just human, and there's a kind of beauty in that. "
May 31, 2017
Overwhelmed. The experience of reading Love My Way completely took me by surprise. It's a story that goes deeper than most and for this bleeding heart, left me in a bit of a stupor.
It's one of those unputdownable reads and at about 48% I found myself scrambling to control my emotions:
-->"Awestruck...this is such a powerful story. Feeling the despair and hope simultaneously."
Indeed, I am awed by Kate Sterritt's story telling. Her writing is simply exquisite, with dialogue that is incisive and a plot that is uniquely structured to draw out the essence of each character.
Now about the story:
Love My Way follows Emerson Hart through her impoverished childhood, finding her soul mate in her first real friend Mereki "Ki", to the current point in time. Set in Sterritt's native Australia, it's executed in such a manner that the reader is sucked right into Emerson's life while working to understand how she came to be where she landed.
My initial impression of Emerson, when we meet her in her early twenties, left me feeling bereft. She's isolated herself and the desperation and loneliness oozes from the page. It's not long before we understand that she's living aimlessly and has lost her passion for art, a connection that feeds her soul:
As the story unfolds and the past and present collide, there a stunning twist in the plot that left me breathless and heartsick. At the same time, Sterritt manages to impart a message of hope. With the introduction of Josh, Emerson's isolation is lifted and she begins to find her way back. As we learn more about him it's apparent that Josh is simply destined to be a part of Emerson's life, to help her heal.
I went into this read expecting this to be a story with a love triangle, but things aren't always as they seem. I came away with a reminder that the capacity to love is endless, it knows no time boundaries, and it's not limited to a number. It's a book I want to read again and it's among my favorites for the year. Kate Sterritt is a new to me author and she's earned another fan.
5++ #LuckyStars
It's one of those unputdownable reads and at about 48% I found myself scrambling to control my emotions:
-->"Awestruck...this is such a powerful story. Feeling the despair and hope simultaneously."
Indeed, I am awed by Kate Sterritt's story telling. Her writing is simply exquisite, with dialogue that is incisive and a plot that is uniquely structured to draw out the essence of each character.
Now about the story:
Love My Way follows Emerson Hart through her impoverished childhood, finding her soul mate in her first real friend Mereki "Ki", to the current point in time. Set in Sterritt's native Australia, it's executed in such a manner that the reader is sucked right into Emerson's life while working to understand how she came to be where she landed.
My initial impression of Emerson, when we meet her in her early twenties, left me feeling bereft. She's isolated herself and the desperation and loneliness oozes from the page. It's not long before we understand that she's living aimlessly and has lost her passion for art, a connection that feeds her soul:
“When I started pushing pebbles into the ground, I was lost and lonely. It gave me purpose, and then it gave me you.”Emerson with Ki
He put his arm around my shoulders, and I leaned into him. “If you ever feel lost and lonely again, always remember that you’re made of the strong stuff.” He pointed to my drawing. “And this will always be your road map back to the light.”
As the story unfolds and the past and present collide, there a stunning twist in the plot that left me breathless and heartsick. At the same time, Sterritt manages to impart a message of hope. With the introduction of Josh, Emerson's isolation is lifted and she begins to find her way back. As we learn more about him it's apparent that Josh is simply destined to be a part of Emerson's life, to help her heal.
I went into this read expecting this to be a story with a love triangle, but things aren't always as they seem. I came away with a reminder that the capacity to love is endless, it knows no time boundaries, and it's not limited to a number. It's a book I want to read again and it's among my favorites for the year. Kate Sterritt is a new to me author and she's earned another fan.
5++ #LuckyStars
June 7, 2017
4 Stars
The blurb was quite intriguing and it obviously came from one of the man in the story. Unfortunately, I didn't get to read even one POV from them. All I ever got is Emerson's POV which to be honest, wasn't enough in my opinion.
The book was written in two parts. The past where she met her best friend and first love Ki.
Sadly, I noticed that the author didn't put on much effort for us to get to know Ki, other than his love for Emerson and fishing. I don't even know anything about his family. Although I must say that I love Emerson's strong character as I love how fierce she loves a person.
I really wished Ms. Sterritt wrote more pages about the past so that I would feel more connected to Ki. Then it would've been perfect.
However, the second part, where she met Josh, well I could really say that I was more connected to him. Because this time, I get to know more about him. His past, his love for his family and his feelings for Emerson.
The writing was smooth and engaging. Never a dull moment. How everything turns out was something I didn't expect which was great as my attention was focused elsewhere in the story so I was a bit floored by it.
“You’re a lucky girl, Emerson Hart."
The blurb was quite intriguing and it obviously came from one of the man in the story. Unfortunately, I didn't get to read even one POV from them. All I ever got is Emerson's POV which to be honest, wasn't enough in my opinion.
The book was written in two parts. The past where she met her best friend and first love Ki.
“When I started pushing pebbles into the ground, I was lost and lonely. It gave me purpose, and then it gave me you.”
....“If you ever feel lost and lonely again, always remember that you’re made of the strong stuff.”...“And this will always be your road map back to the light.”
I nodded, allowing more happy tears to escape. He was my compass and, with him by my side, I would never be lost again.
Sadly, I noticed that the author didn't put on much effort for us to get to know Ki, other than his love for Emerson and fishing. I don't even know anything about his family. Although I must say that I love Emerson's strong character as I love how fierce she loves a person.
“Life isn’t always hearts and flowers, Kalimna.”
I really wished Ms. Sterritt wrote more pages about the past so that I would feel more connected to Ki. Then it would've been perfect.
However, the second part, where she met Josh, well I could really say that I was more connected to him. Because this time, I get to know more about him. His past, his love for his family and his feelings for Emerson.
“Is it wrong to want to feel like I matter?
Is it wrong to want to feel important to someone?
Is it wrong to want to feel again?
The writing was smooth and engaging. Never a dull moment. How everything turns out was something I didn't expect which was great as my attention was focused elsewhere in the story so I was a bit floored by it.
“Never let your light die because it’s going to brighten more than just my world.”
August 5, 2017
What a UNIQUE book!! It has a seriously HUGE TWIST to the story that just changes everything you think you know about it. Actually, I'm just going to be really honest with you guys, when I first read the blurb, it seemed like a love triangle (which I don't like and rarely read) and so I just moved on assuming that this book wasn't for me. But then a friend emailed me telling me she thought I'd love this book and she told me the entire twist and as soon as I found out what the twist was, I immediately bought the book and bumped it to the top of my reading list.
Today, I read it in one sitting and even though I knew the twist, I still fell in love with the beautiful writing and the characters and really enjoyed the story so so much. The story drew me right in and by the end of the epilogue, I had happy tears in my eyes and my heart was overflowing with feels.
So... what's the book about? Hmm... well... I understand why the blurb is so short. Because honestly there's almost no way to properly describe this book's story in a way that isn't either misleading or full of spoilers. The story captures the beautiful intensity of love and friendship, there's also the all-consuming shadow of loss, there's a mixture of happiness and grief, and a lot of healing. This isn't a love triangle. But if I try and classify the story by saying something like "friends to lovers" or "bad boy" or whatever, I feel like it would be again either misleading or full of spoilers so I'm scared to tell you more because I don't want to give away the story's secrets.
This is the prologue...
Even without seeing her face, I know that the woman standing at the water’s edge is desperately sad. Her back is to me and her shoulders are slumped, perhaps heavy with regret. It kills me to know I am partly to blame, and for that reason alone, it’s impossible to look at her. Leaning against the rough trunk of the tree, I close my eyes. My life will forever begin and end with her, and I’m unable to witness her heart breaking.
Standing still is no longer an option, so I begin to pace. Is she still waiting for him or has he already left? Fear pools in my veins at the uncertainty. Above all else, I want her to be happy. If this is too hard, I’ll have to walk away again. I let out a long breath, frustrated by the whole situation.
Emerson Hart is the love of my life. Unfortunately, I’m not the only love of hers. And therein lies the problem.
Intriguing, right?? And it's totally not what it seems either.
My personal recommendation is to go into this book BLIND. Yes, I realize that's ironic since I refused to read this book without knowing the spoilers first, however, for anyone feeling nervous maybe you can draw comfort in knowing that knowing the twist was what made me want to read the book so it's likely going to be something you can handle. However, I also know that some of you will simply need to know and so I've written out spoilers below. Again, I DO NOT RECOMMEND READING THE SPOILERS unless you really desperately need them.
[spoiler]
LAST WARNING. DON'T READ THESE UNLESS YOU HAVE TO.
This is not a love triangle -- at least not the way you think it might be. And there's no cheating. The heroine's childhood best friend who she fell in love with in high school and with whom she'd planned to spend the rest of her life was killed. But she went on with her life holding on to his memory so strongly that it was as though he was still with her in person. She sees him, talks to him, and as the reader you do think he's genuinely there. But he's not. So, five years later when she meets the hero and falls in love again, she feels like she's cheating a little and/or certainly betraying his memory in a way that is very hard for her to handle. It's heart-breaking, but ultimately incredibly healing to see her find a way to accept the past and move on to find happiness. The epilogue especially is so beautiful!
[/spoiler]
If I hadn't known the twist, I do not think I would have guessed it on my own. A part of me wishes I could have had the reading experience of being surprised by the twist. However, I know that I personally really did need to know. And even though I knew, I still fully enjoyed the book and it was actually fun to instead watch for all the subtle clues that the author laid along the way.
The writing was beautiful and I read the book in one non-stop sitting. It's told from the heroine's POV partly in present day and partly in the past with a very smooth transition between the two. If you examine the story too closely there are some unbelievable elements or things that don't quite line up but if you just sort of open your heart and accept it as it is, it really works.
I love the book world. I love blogging about it, I love reading, I live and breath the stories I read. But admittedly, sometimes they do seem a little similar. And as such, I whole-heartedly commend this author for daring to step outside the lines and tell such a unique story. If you're in the mood for a really different love story, give this a try!!
Rating: 4+ stars. Contemporary Romance Standalone
Buy LOVE MY WAY (Kindle)
Buy LOVE MY WAY (Paperback)
Buy LOVE MY WAY (iTunes)
__________________________
For more of my reviews, book news and updates:
✦ Main blog: Aestas Book Blog
✦ Facebook Blog Page
✦ Subscribe by email
April 29, 2018
I'm so happy I read this boooook! Since the beginning of the year, I've suffered from a major book slump. With school and everything else, I let reading become more of an occasional hobby than the serious passtime it had been for years. I don't regret the choice, but it had the side effect of not making me feel as involved in the books I read as I used to. Until this gem here.
I could not stop reading. There is a bit of a halo of mystery floating around in the pages and my brain could not stop wondering "when will we know what's really going on here?"
This book was incredible and I'm so happy Sophie recommended me to go in blind becauseo otherwise it would have been a "hell no!" for me. But instead it worked. This book to me tasted like a mix of "Confess" by Hoover, "Worth it" by Kage, and with just a sprinkle of "Black Lies" by Torre.
Cannot say I was super-shocked by the twist, but indeed I was happy about how things turned out.
This book is a beautiful love story that will make your heart ache, without being an ugly cry book.
I adored every section of this book and every single character. Sometimes, books with such plots tent to alienate the heroine from the reader, but in this case I felt for Emerson and was one her side 100%, through thick and thin.
Thank you Sophie for recommending it to me. This for sure won't be the last book I read by Sterrit. I loved it to bits and devoured it. Here's a pebble for you <3
I could not stop reading. There is a bit of a halo of mystery floating around in the pages and my brain could not stop wondering "when will we know what's really going on here?"
This book was incredible and I'm so happy Sophie recommended me to go in blind becauseo otherwise it would have been a "hell no!" for me. But instead it worked. This book to me tasted like a mix of "Confess" by Hoover, "Worth it" by Kage, and with just a sprinkle of "Black Lies" by Torre.
Cannot say I was super-shocked by the twist, but indeed I was happy about how things turned out.
This book is a beautiful love story that will make your heart ache, without being an ugly cry book.
I adored every section of this book and every single character. Sometimes, books with such plots tent to alienate the heroine from the reader, but in this case I felt for Emerson and was one her side 100%, through thick and thin.
Thank you Sophie for recommending it to me. This for sure won't be the last book I read by Sterrit. I loved it to bits and devoured it. Here's a pebble for you <3
December 19, 2017
This is my first book from this author and I'm in awe how she beautifully has written this book. It's captivating from the moment I read the story of Emerson and her struggle growing up to a house that her mom doesn't seem to care about her and a stepbrother (and his friend) who are bullying her. That's why she prefers to be alone until he met Mereki! She found a friend in him that encourages her to discover and explore her love for art. As each year past, their relationship develops into more than friendship. Just when everything is going well, something happened that changes everything between Emerson and Mereki. And here is where I stop. I don't want to add more because I may spoil everything.
Overall, I totally enjoyed it through and through. And one more thing that scene at 84% I didn't see it coming. I just can't believe it! Just WOW! You got me there Ms. Kate Sterritt!
If you haven't read a book by this author I greatly recommend this one! Happy reading!
Overall, I totally enjoyed it through and through. And one more thing that scene at 84% I didn't see it coming. I just can't believe it! Just WOW! You got me there Ms. Kate Sterritt!
If you haven't read a book by this author I greatly recommend this one! Happy reading!
June 12, 2017
Review coming soon... I'm still trying to digest one of my favorite books of 2017.
August 27, 2017
Love this so much
November 6, 2017
3.5 Stars. Lovely story, a little sad.
May 31, 2017
Love My Way by Kate Sterritt is one of those rare gems that you come across and it sets itself not only in your heart, but also in your soul.
Sterritt has such a phenomenal gift of creating words that become a part of you. She creates a world in which the words flow through your mind and develop into a beautiful stunning captivating storyline that has your heart racing and your mind wondering where she is going to take you.
And make no mistake, Sterritt leads you on a journey so powerful you will not soon forget it.
Emerson is a young woman who has faced so much sorrow and neglect. And yet she has a fire and light inside of her that people are drawn to.
One of those people is her childhood friend, Mereki, who will shape and impact her life more than she could ever imagine. He will be the lifeline and anchor she needs most and holds dear for so many reasons.
Together these two characters will overcome adversity and end up facing obstacles that neither ever saw coming.
I love that this storyline has so many layers, and so many feels.
The whole time I was reading it, I kept wanting to savor each page and every emotion.
This is truly a masterpiece of words and a journey of hope.
May we all find a love our way one day and learn to fly!
5 Heart-stopping Beautiful Stars!!!
Sterritt has such a phenomenal gift of creating words that become a part of you. She creates a world in which the words flow through your mind and develop into a beautiful stunning captivating storyline that has your heart racing and your mind wondering where she is going to take you.
And make no mistake, Sterritt leads you on a journey so powerful you will not soon forget it.
Emerson is a young woman who has faced so much sorrow and neglect. And yet she has a fire and light inside of her that people are drawn to.
One of those people is her childhood friend, Mereki, who will shape and impact her life more than she could ever imagine. He will be the lifeline and anchor she needs most and holds dear for so many reasons.
Together these two characters will overcome adversity and end up facing obstacles that neither ever saw coming.
I love that this storyline has so many layers, and so many feels.
The whole time I was reading it, I kept wanting to savor each page and every emotion.
This is truly a masterpiece of words and a journey of hope.
May we all find a love our way one day and learn to fly!
5 Heart-stopping Beautiful Stars!!!
November 7, 2017
HOLY CHEESE AND CRACKERS.
I just cried a damn river at this freaking book. I don’t even know how to deal right now, I just can’t omg 💔
Emerson has always been different. She grew up with a mum who doesn’t care and a stepbrother who hates her and a dad who bailed with the first few days of her being born. Emerson soon finds an unexpected friend in a group of bullies (including her step brother), the only one who stood up for her.
Ki knows Emerson is different, she shines brightly and has attracted his attention and he can’t look away. He’s interested in everything Emerson.
Spending the next few years together we see them growing up and their relationship crossing the friends border and it’s absolutely adorable seeing it. But trashed soon strikes and heartbreak crushes you more than you’ll ever expect it to.
This storyline was beyond amazing, this author makes you feel all sorts of anger to the main characters (Emerson) only to make you feel like an idiot and love her that much more, I was absolutely shocked at events and I definitely didn’t see them coming, I was crying like a baby.
It’s a story about love and heartbreak and your heart opening for love once again after it closes up. It’s beautiful and heartbreaking and hit you deep down to your soul, I haven’t had a good cry in a while but this one sure as hell brought on the tears.
This was my first read from this author and I choose the perfect book to be my first, I wouldn’t want it any other way. Simply perfect.
I just cried a damn river at this freaking book. I don’t even know how to deal right now, I just can’t omg 💔
Emerson has always been different. She grew up with a mum who doesn’t care and a stepbrother who hates her and a dad who bailed with the first few days of her being born. Emerson soon finds an unexpected friend in a group of bullies (including her step brother), the only one who stood up for her.
Ki knows Emerson is different, she shines brightly and has attracted his attention and he can’t look away. He’s interested in everything Emerson.
Spending the next few years together we see them growing up and their relationship crossing the friends border and it’s absolutely adorable seeing it. But trashed soon strikes and heartbreak crushes you more than you’ll ever expect it to.
This storyline was beyond amazing, this author makes you feel all sorts of anger to the main characters (Emerson) only to make you feel like an idiot and love her that much more, I was absolutely shocked at events and I definitely didn’t see them coming, I was crying like a baby.
It’s a story about love and heartbreak and your heart opening for love once again after it closes up. It’s beautiful and heartbreaking and hit you deep down to your soul, I haven’t had a good cry in a while but this one sure as hell brought on the tears.
This was my first read from this author and I choose the perfect book to be my first, I wouldn’t want it any other way. Simply perfect.
September 24, 2025
לסקירה מפורטת בעברית, קישור לבלוג שלי -
https://sivi-the-avid-reader.com/לאהו...
https://sivi-the-avid-reader.com/לאהו...
March 4, 2020
I enjoyed this. It was sweet and simple with a dash of angst and a lot of sad. The story and where it is going is pretty easy to figure out, but enjoyable nonetheless. Sorry this is so vague, but if I give a synopsis, I'll probably give away the twist and ruin the reading experience for someone else.
Sorry 😘
Sorry 😘
Displaying 1 - 30 of 465 reviews