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Juniper Hills #1
All There Is
Emma Stevens is ready for a fresh start in Juniper Hills, but she still lives with the impossible guilt of her past: having failed to rescue her little stepbrother from a fire that decimated her childhood home and her family. Her next-door neighbor may have been the one to drag her out of the burning building that night, but it doesn’t exonerate him since he caused the fire. Not even when he shows up fourteen years later to help salvage her bakery.
Jake Rowan may not have been able to save Emma’s brother from the fire, but at least he was able to save his own brother. By taking the fall and the punishment for him, Jake managed to protect his older brother’s future… but it cost him the girl of his dreams.
Now Jake finds himself on Emma’s doorstep once again. Not to save her life this time, but to repair it. And more importantly, her heart, if she’ll let him.
Jake Rowan may not have been able to save Emma’s brother from the fire, but at least he was able to save his own brother. By taking the fall and the punishment for him, Jake managed to protect his older brother’s future… but it cost him the girl of his dreams.
Now Jake finds himself on Emma’s doorstep once again. Not to save her life this time, but to repair it. And more importantly, her heart, if she’ll let him.
264 pages, Kindle Edition
First published June 27, 2017
296 people are currently reading
1610 people want to read
About the author
Violet Duke
36 books1,263 followersNEW YORK TIMES & USA TODAY bestselling author Violet Duke is a former professor of English Education ecstatic to be on the other side of the page now writing emotion-rich stories with fun, everyday characters and sweet, sexy match-ups. Since her debut series in 2013, over a million readers have put all four of Violet's laugh & cry contemporary romance series on bestseller lists and Top 10 charts across the major eretailers, both in the U.S. and internationally.
When she isn't feeding her book-a-day addiction, Violet enjoys doing far too many things without checking the directions first (often with outrageous power tools she has no business operating), and cooking impossible-to-replicate 'special edition' dishes that laugh in the face of recipes. She lives in Hawai'i with her kids (Violet & Duke) and Mr. Violet Duke (their ringleader), with a PJs-and-rubber-slippers work dress code she takes very seriously.
♥ For fan info & epic giveaways, visit: www.facebook.com/VioletDukeBooks
When she isn't feeding her book-a-day addiction, Violet enjoys doing far too many things without checking the directions first (often with outrageous power tools she has no business operating), and cooking impossible-to-replicate 'special edition' dishes that laugh in the face of recipes. She lives in Hawai'i with her kids (Violet & Duke) and Mr. Violet Duke (their ringleader), with a PJs-and-rubber-slippers work dress code she takes very seriously.
♥ For fan info & epic giveaways, visit: www.facebook.com/VioletDukeBooks
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 198 reviews
July 2, 2017
“I always knew you’d grow up to be something special, Emma Stevens.”
Emma was so strong for her family. Even at twenty three years old, she picked up her life and took her sister to a better town to live in. She supported her sister's dreams before even considering her own and did everything in life to make Megan's a better one. Emma was extremely humble about all of this at the same time, which in my mind makes her more endearing as well. What the big kicker was though was how when Jake walked back into the picture, it was Megan who actually turned around to help Emma get through it. It was Megan's perspective which finally allowed Emma to let go a little of her resentment towards him. It was Megan who showed Emma her outlook on life, and how it was nothing but compassionate and positive, even when Jake where concerned. This helped change how Emma saw him and was truly a big catalyst of the romance portion of the plot. I liked how the sisters could rely on each other this way and it wasn't always one being strong and helping the other, they both filled this role.
“I didn’t recognize him. Why didn’t you call me? I would’ve come down sooner if I’d known.”
This wasn’t going at all how she’d imagined. “Why would you have come down?”
“To see how he’s doing. To thank him for saving my life. To see how his brother and sister are doing. I don’t know. Why? Did you think I wouldn’t want to see him or something?”
[...]
"Things we lose usually stay lost. Folks we miss, we typically don’t ever get a chance to stop missing. Now, Peyton’s never going to walk back into our lives again, but Jake just did. So if you miss Jake like I suspect you do, you now have a chance to close up that hole he left in your heart after the fire . . . one way or another.”
So yes, there's a lot of heaviness in this book but there's also a lot of fun and lighthearted moments as well. For instance, these characters would make little jabs or play pranks on each other, which was so refreshing, especially after the start to their story. To be able to find the room in your heart to laugh with the person who you hated for so long? That was great to see. It was also absolutely fantastic how easily Jake could read Emma's thoughts and how he called her on it. Drove the poor girl nuts but as a reader, it was extremely entertaining.
"All he knew was that it was on. Messing with a man’s coffee was just plain mean."
I really liked the small town family vibe that Juniper Hills had going on. A lot of times small towns are portrayed as being nosey and in everyone's business, how you can't keep anything to yourself and etc. Sure, that's still true here, but it was mixed with warm and welcoming citizens who were more than happy to have Jake around, especially if he was helping the towns beloved Emma. Everyone had their own crazy stories and were more than happy to let Jake in. They treated him as part of the family and gave him a reason to love the little town even more.
Barb arched an observant eyebrow. “Well, well. I think maybe I’m warning the wrong person. Don’t you go letting her break your heart now.”
Guess her soothsayer powers weren’t always quite so accurate. “Lost my heart a long time ago,” he admitted quietly, for Barb’s ears only. “So you don’t need to worry about me.” Nothing to break here.
“Oh, I’m not worried. I think you’ll be just fine.” She patted him gently on the shoulder in a sage seer way. “That said, word to the wise so you’re not caught unaware. Most of us only call things in our life lost when it’s something we hope to find again one day.”
Want to know something so absolutely fantastic that I loved immensely? The fact that these characters grew up, and actually acted like adults! The sad thing is, that shouldn't be such a selling point but I was so happy when they spoke and acted like adults, treated each other as the grown up versions they are and didn't fall back into any fits or immature words and actions, because that seems all too common these days. I love when a character can actually act their age, know what they want to do/say/feel, and can express that.
Jake is actually the swooniest book boyfriend ever. It's been decided. By me. Right now. So I think that makes it official. Really though, his actions were on point and his words even better. I could feel his yearning for the heroine through the pages. Some of things he said either to or about her, wow, I think even I melted, so there's no way that Emma could've stayed strong! Plus all the small things he did to show her who he is now as a person, his integrity and respect, his attention to detail and his desire to make her happy. Their first date for instance, was the absolute perfect thing for these two.
“I think,” he said quietly to his captive audience, “my favorite small-town memories are mostly about the girl next door.” He slid his hooded eyes over to her and snagged her gaze for a full beat. His eyes went from the calm sage green they normally were, to the dark mossy green they sometimes got when he was deep in thought. Instantly, she felt herself get sucked into his orbit like she used to when they were teens. “Looking over my family’s fence and seeing her out in her backyard, giving the sun a reason to shine, was always the best part of my day.”
If you read the blurb about this book, you already know that it's going to have an interesting and unique plot, definitely not something that you see all the time floating around the book world. Now based on this alone, I expected this book to be jam packed with angst, but I was actually surprised at how manageable it was. Everything was it small doses as to not overwhelm the reader, and broken up with fun pranks or town stories to lighten the mood.
I really appreciated the issues that these characters had to find a way to overcome. I understand why it was so hard for Emma and in turn, the fact that it was as equally hard on Jake added some excellent depth to the characters and the storyline. Their journey to then overcome and move past these issues was a fantastic one. I can easily believe the chemistry these two had as teenagers when they first met because it has those first love kind of vibes too.
You’re incredible, Emma Stevens.” His voice grew thick with emotion. “No one’s ever done for me what you did.”
“Gush about you like you’re the best thing since sliced bread?” she asked, eyes crinkling at the corners.
He shook his head. “You defended me. Protected me. Fought for me. Despite everything in our past, despite having every reason not to, you continue to choose to believe I’m worth all of that. Unconditionally. Based on blind faith alone. I’ve never had that before.”
In fact, he’d never felt he even deserved any of that before today.
Before Emma.
This is my second book by Violet Duke and the writing is just so comfortable, it feels soft and welcoming, kind of like coming home. I can't wait to jump into her other stories, because this is a feeling that any reader can appreciate.
*An ARC was received in exchange for an honest review.
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June 26, 2017
4.5 stars
Once again author Violet Duke has written a heartwarming yet gut wrenching story that I could not put down; All There Is starts her Juniper Hills series off with a serious punch. Fourteen years ago two young friends, hoping for more than friendship, are torn apart and their lives are forever changed yet they are given a second chance when a secondary character decides to make amends for his role in that fateful night. All There Is is about acceptance, forgiveness, and love, but also about letting go of the past and embracing the future. I loved this book, and I can’t wait for the next installment in this series.
Emma Stevens loves her adopted home town of Juniper Hills, the bakery that she owns and run, and her younger sister and while she has a good life, she hasn’t found a man to spend her life with or a way to forgive herself for choices she made that tore her family apart.
Once again life has thrown Jake Rowan a curveball; his mentor passed away and his reputation has been tarnished making it difficult for him to get work doing the kind of woodworking and finish work he loves, so when his older brother asks for his help on a project one that will put his skills to good use he accepts only to find out that the girl he left behind years ago along with her younger sister play a huge role in the reason he is in town.
There was so much I loved about this book including the fact that this couple had a painful past and despite that, this book was not overly angst or drama filled. Yes, both of these individuals carry guilt and emotional scars from their past, but they are both determined to not let it interfere in who they are today. That however, is a catch-22 because Emma refuses to discuss the past and Jake firmly believes that in order for them to move forward they must once and for all bury the past. The fact remains that they easily fall back into those friend roles they had before, and they are happier when they are spending time together and the underlying sexual tension and banter between them just ramps up the sensuality of this story even more. This book is on the sweeter side of romance, but that didn’t stop it from being sexy, fun, and emotional.
There were a few secondary characters that really caught my eye and I have a feeling the next book in this series is going to be explosive on many levels.
From start to finish All There Is was an emotional roller coaster that held my attention with its beautifully crafted story and engaging characters; I thoroughly loved this story.
Review copy provided for a voluntary review.
Once again author Violet Duke has written a heartwarming yet gut wrenching story that I could not put down; All There Is starts her Juniper Hills series off with a serious punch. Fourteen years ago two young friends, hoping for more than friendship, are torn apart and their lives are forever changed yet they are given a second chance when a secondary character decides to make amends for his role in that fateful night. All There Is is about acceptance, forgiveness, and love, but also about letting go of the past and embracing the future. I loved this book, and I can’t wait for the next installment in this series.
Emma Stevens loves her adopted home town of Juniper Hills, the bakery that she owns and run, and her younger sister and while she has a good life, she hasn’t found a man to spend her life with or a way to forgive herself for choices she made that tore her family apart.
Once again life has thrown Jake Rowan a curveball; his mentor passed away and his reputation has been tarnished making it difficult for him to get work doing the kind of woodworking and finish work he loves, so when his older brother asks for his help on a project one that will put his skills to good use he accepts only to find out that the girl he left behind years ago along with her younger sister play a huge role in the reason he is in town.
There was so much I loved about this book including the fact that this couple had a painful past and despite that, this book was not overly angst or drama filled. Yes, both of these individuals carry guilt and emotional scars from their past, but they are both determined to not let it interfere in who they are today. That however, is a catch-22 because Emma refuses to discuss the past and Jake firmly believes that in order for them to move forward they must once and for all bury the past. The fact remains that they easily fall back into those friend roles they had before, and they are happier when they are spending time together and the underlying sexual tension and banter between them just ramps up the sensuality of this story even more. This book is on the sweeter side of romance, but that didn’t stop it from being sexy, fun, and emotional.
There were a few secondary characters that really caught my eye and I have a feeling the next book in this series is going to be explosive on many levels.
From start to finish All There Is was an emotional roller coaster that held my attention with its beautifully crafted story and engaging characters; I thoroughly loved this story.
Review copy provided for a voluntary review.
June 19, 2017
This is an absolutely fantastic book! It's a little different from other books by this author but she did an amazing job with it. Her building of the story between Emma and Jake, both past and present, really helped us get to know and care about these characters. Their story is very emotional and it's one of forgiveness, understanding, and acceptance. It's beautifully told and not to be missed.
Everyone needs this on their must read list. I highly recommend it.
Everyone needs this on their must read list. I highly recommend it.
June 29, 2017
A story full of emotions and a sweet romance. Emma and Jake have a past that they will need to let go to have a future. They both need to accept what happened, but emotional scars can be hard to let go.
Loved the characters of Emma and Jake, both so down to earth. Loved the small town atmosphere of Juniper Hills, I live in Kansas, Violet did a well job! This book had me laughing, crying and swooning over Jake and Emma. I can't wait to see who is in the next Juniper Hills book. I highly recommend this book!!
Loved the characters of Emma and Jake, both so down to earth. Loved the small town atmosphere of Juniper Hills, I live in Kansas, Violet did a well job! This book had me laughing, crying and swooning over Jake and Emma. I can't wait to see who is in the next Juniper Hills book. I highly recommend this book!!
July 30, 2017
If you want to read about two people who are guilt-ridden and can’t seem to want to get over it then this book is for you. Overall, it was a decent book but it didn’t have to be almost 300 pages of guilt, guilt and more guilt. Also, the author kept mentioning his beard and it sounded bushy to me so I couldn’t enjoy the book as much as I could have and then she’d say something about his dimple or the cleft in his chin. Neither of which you can see through a beard. Don’t know when these horrendously bushy-long beards came into fashion but, IMO, they are awful. So, I won’t read this author again for fear she’ll feel the need to have another non-trimmed beard on her hero.
I have no idea which person carried around the worst guilt, Emma or Jake. I’m surprised they could even function it was so bad. And 14 years is a lot of guilt. And when they weren’t talking about it they were thinking about it. This book is for readers who love guilty angst and inner turmoil thoughts.
I did like Jake and Emma, but not together. Two carrying the same guilt is just too much. I finally had to start skimming through their never ending thoughts.
I really liked Megan, since she had more sense than her sister, Emma. Megan was in the house-fire that killed their brother, Peyton, and she was burned pretty badly but she had a positive attitude and was happy all the time. Unlike Emma.
I liked Carter, even though he was just a voice on the phone through the whole book. And I have a feeling if the next book is about Carter it will be full of guilt too, so I’ll pass on that.
There was not actually screwing in this book, just oral sex on the stairs for her and then for him it was in bed, because he wanted to wait! I guess he didn’t consider oral as a part of “sex.”
There was swearing but NO F-bombs.
As to the narration: Again, 2 narrators that do both the female and male voices. What is the point in that? Kate Rudd does a great man’s voice but A.T. Chandler does a lousy woman’s voice, and don’t even get me started on the 4 year old he was supposed to be doing. However, A.T. Chandler has an awesome voice when it came to the men, Whew! If he had done the men and Ms. Rudd had done the female voices the narration would have been phenomenal.
July 22, 2017
Hmmm - 3.5 stars
ok this is tough. As second chance romance's go, this was one of the few I read where I did not care what their past history with others was. They had a budding teenage romance going when they split and there was nothing shared - I do not think they had even kissed.
I really liked Jake, but he was a too much of a martyr and he was not strong enough for me. I felt sorry for him and that is the last thing I want in a romantic hero. But because I did feel sorry for him, I was engaged in the story as I wanted a happy ending for him. He really was a sweetheart and had dealt remarkably well with the past. (but just sayin' - Juvie records are sealed so the entire storyline around no one hiring him because he is a criminal is just crap. He created that mess for himself.)
As for Katherine, I appreciated all she did for her sister and what they went through when they were kids, but, honestly, I HATED how she treated Jake most of the time. She was so hot and cold. When she was hot, she treated him well, supported him and made him happy. But when the big reveal happened and she said what she said, I was so disappointed in her. Burying her head in the sand for all these years was ok, until she started having feelings for Jake. She needed to "woman up" and grow up. Thank goodness her younger sister had loads more maturity and perspective and kicked her ass.
Overall, I believe this will be popular with most readers, albeit a bit slow at times. It is low angst, sweet and is not nearly as heavy as it could be considering their past issues.
ok this is tough. As second chance romance's go, this was one of the few I read where I did not care what their past history with others was. They had a budding teenage romance going when they split and there was nothing shared - I do not think they had even kissed.
I really liked Jake, but he was a too much of a martyr and he was not strong enough for me. I felt sorry for him and that is the last thing I want in a romantic hero. But because I did feel sorry for him, I was engaged in the story as I wanted a happy ending for him. He really was a sweetheart and had dealt remarkably well with the past. (but just sayin' - Juvie records are sealed so the entire storyline around no one hiring him because he is a criminal is just crap. He created that mess for himself.)
As for Katherine, I appreciated all she did for her sister and what they went through when they were kids, but, honestly, I HATED how she treated Jake most of the time. She was so hot and cold. When she was hot, she treated him well, supported him and made him happy. But when the big reveal happened and she said what she said, I was so disappointed in her. Burying her head in the sand for all these years was ok, until she started having feelings for Jake. She needed to "woman up" and grow up. Thank goodness her younger sister had loads more maturity and perspective and kicked her ass.
Overall, I believe this will be popular with most readers, albeit a bit slow at times. It is low angst, sweet and is not nearly as heavy as it could be considering their past issues.
July 1, 2017
I had barely started reading ALL THERE IS when I was asking myself why has it been so long since I've read a book by Violet Duke? I have long held that Ms. Duke does humor like no other... she just has this way with words that you can't help but smile as you read the sassy banter and fall in love with her characters. The humor and sass is still here to bring some levity, even though the storyline is more intense and emotional than the majority of her books. It's a sad story of tragedy and loss that seems as if no one could possibly come out on the other side with any thing close to happy ending. Two families were torn apart over the fire that cost the life of a small boy. So much loss and devastation and sacrifice. It's beautiful story with characters that will break your heart even as you hope along with them that somehow they will find a way to continue on beyond their pain. But I never should have doubted Ms. Duke's ability to work magic. She is an amazing storyteller. So yes, I laughed. And I also cried. And remarkably at the end I cried some more, but this time they were happy tears. You have got to read this one! 4.5 stars
~Complimentary copy downloaded from NetGalley. All opinions expressed in this review are my own .
~Complimentary copy downloaded from NetGalley. All opinions expressed in this review are my own .
June 16, 2017
A wonderful story.
I'm a sucker for romance stories that touch on all of my emotions and All There Is does that in spades. One of my favorite romance tropes is the second chance romance and Violet Duke did a fantastic job with it in this book. Ms. Duke warned her fans on Facebook that this story doesn't have as much heat to it as others she's written. Be that as it may, explicit sex scenes aren't necessarily needed to get the point across; sometimes less is actually better.
Jake and Emma were neighbors and friends when they were young and there was a spark of something more between them. Everything came crashing down when a fire destroyed Emma's home and left her sister scarred and their young step-brother dead. Jake saved Emma and her sister but he also took the blame for starting the fire. Emma doesn't know he didn't actually start the fire and can't bring herself to ever forgive him.
Violet Duke writes with such emotional depth and I bet this book had her tears flowing in more than one place as she wrote it. But the story wasn't all just sad emotions at all; it also has a lot of humorous moments. Emma is fond of playing innocent pranks and her sister is pretty good at them, too.
Jake is the kind of guy that most women would fall for in a heartbeat. He's kind and considerate and there doesn't seem to be anything he can't fix. I wanted to hug him and keep him for myself.
I would love to see Emma's sister, Megan, get a book of her own. She's been through fire and come out scarred but her attitude towards life is amazing; she deserves to get her own HEA. This book is a fantastic start to a new series and I hope additional books are coming.
A review copy was provided by the publisher via NetGalley but this did not influence my opinion or rating of the book.
This review will be posted to Xtreme-Delusions dot com on June 27, 2017.
I'm a sucker for romance stories that touch on all of my emotions and All There Is does that in spades. One of my favorite romance tropes is the second chance romance and Violet Duke did a fantastic job with it in this book. Ms. Duke warned her fans on Facebook that this story doesn't have as much heat to it as others she's written. Be that as it may, explicit sex scenes aren't necessarily needed to get the point across; sometimes less is actually better.
Jake and Emma were neighbors and friends when they were young and there was a spark of something more between them. Everything came crashing down when a fire destroyed Emma's home and left her sister scarred and their young step-brother dead. Jake saved Emma and her sister but he also took the blame for starting the fire. Emma doesn't know he didn't actually start the fire and can't bring herself to ever forgive him.
Violet Duke writes with such emotional depth and I bet this book had her tears flowing in more than one place as she wrote it. But the story wasn't all just sad emotions at all; it also has a lot of humorous moments. Emma is fond of playing innocent pranks and her sister is pretty good at them, too.
Jake is the kind of guy that most women would fall for in a heartbeat. He's kind and considerate and there doesn't seem to be anything he can't fix. I wanted to hug him and keep him for myself.
I would love to see Emma's sister, Megan, get a book of her own. She's been through fire and come out scarred but her attitude towards life is amazing; she deserves to get her own HEA. This book is a fantastic start to a new series and I hope additional books are coming.
A review copy was provided by the publisher via NetGalley but this did not influence my opinion or rating of the book.
This review will be posted to Xtreme-Delusions dot com on June 27, 2017.
June 28, 2017
You will laugh, you will cry, you will swoon while reading this latest book by Violet Duke! All There Is was wonderfully written, with sweet characters with just a hint of spice. Emma and Jake get their chance for an HEA if only they can work through the past. That's all there is to it!
September 13, 2017
Received an ARC for my fair review for netgalley. Story about Jake and Emma who were still struggling with guilt. They were friends and neighbors growing up, and tragedy hit them. There is a lot of heartache, but eventually there is forgiveness and a chance at love.
May 28, 2017
**Advanced copy received from NetGalley and the publisher in exchange for an honest review**
All There Is is the first book in the new Juniper Hill series by Violet Duke. I've been hearing about this book for quite awhile, so I was very happy to get my hands on it and I was certainly not disappointed.
While Emma Stevens is trying to move on with her life, it is a night fourteen years in the past that continues to dominate her thoughts and feeds her guilt. While she has started a new life in Juniper Hills by starting a very successful bakery, she still can't forget the night that she was unable to save her stepbrother from a fire that destroyed not only her childhood home, but her family as well. While she too could have lost her life, it was her next-door neighbor that saved her that night and he's the one thing about that night that she wishes she could forget, but like everything else, his memory stays with her.
Jake Rowan has his own demons that he faces daily following the fire that changed his entire life. After Jake took the fall for the fire that destroyed Emma's family home, he served the punishment and seemingly continues to due to the fact his contracting business has received poor reviews. The sad thing is the reviews have nothing to do with his work, which is impeccable, but everything to do with the fact he spent time in juvenile hall. When Jake gets a job opportunity in Juniper Hills, he has no idea that the one person he's never been able to get over is going to be walking right back into his life.
When Emma and Jake see one another, and subsequently are forced to work in the same town, will the past be too much for them to bear? Or will these two people finally confront what happened so many years ago and act on the chemistry that is still so obvious?
I really enjoyed this book and it was one that I did not want to put down. It felt very authentic to me in terms of how people in the real world would deal with this type of situation. There were disagreements, misunderstandings, very sweet moments and moments of realization that lead to both forgiveness and introspection. This is a great addition to Violet Duke's already wonderful stable of books and one that I would highly recommend.
All There Is is the first book in the new Juniper Hill series by Violet Duke. I've been hearing about this book for quite awhile, so I was very happy to get my hands on it and I was certainly not disappointed.
While Emma Stevens is trying to move on with her life, it is a night fourteen years in the past that continues to dominate her thoughts and feeds her guilt. While she has started a new life in Juniper Hills by starting a very successful bakery, she still can't forget the night that she was unable to save her stepbrother from a fire that destroyed not only her childhood home, but her family as well. While she too could have lost her life, it was her next-door neighbor that saved her that night and he's the one thing about that night that she wishes she could forget, but like everything else, his memory stays with her.
Jake Rowan has his own demons that he faces daily following the fire that changed his entire life. After Jake took the fall for the fire that destroyed Emma's family home, he served the punishment and seemingly continues to due to the fact his contracting business has received poor reviews. The sad thing is the reviews have nothing to do with his work, which is impeccable, but everything to do with the fact he spent time in juvenile hall. When Jake gets a job opportunity in Juniper Hills, he has no idea that the one person he's never been able to get over is going to be walking right back into his life.
When Emma and Jake see one another, and subsequently are forced to work in the same town, will the past be too much for them to bear? Or will these two people finally confront what happened so many years ago and act on the chemistry that is still so obvious?
I really enjoyed this book and it was one that I did not want to put down. It felt very authentic to me in terms of how people in the real world would deal with this type of situation. There were disagreements, misunderstandings, very sweet moments and moments of realization that lead to both forgiveness and introspection. This is a great addition to Violet Duke's already wonderful stable of books and one that I would highly recommend.
June 10, 2019
Gah, so emotional and there were times a smile was put on my face! I really hope the next book will be about Carter and Meghan! The narrators were perfect! A. T. Chandler needs to do more Romance lol and I love Kate Rudd!
June 12, 2017
Review written: June 12, 2017
Star Rating: ★★★★½
Heat Rating: ☀☀☼☼☼
An Advanced Reader Copy (ARC) of this book was received free via Netgalley for an honest review.
After the debacle that was the last Violet Duke book I read, I knew I'd have to try another. And All There Is was the best choice I could have made. Emma's and Jake's story was phenomenal!
I loved the set up for the book: two kids who loved each other but were torn apart with so much anger and pain between them meeting again as adults and finding that sometimes, no matter the issues between them, love endures and survives. Both Emma and Jake suffer from guilt over the night a fire ripped through Emma's home, killing her young brother. But that night remains shrouded in mystery and each of them only knows part of the story.
Watching them struggle with their terrible internal scars is painful in the extreme, but watching them fall in love with the adult versions of themselves is immeasurably sweet. The bitterness of the years of separation, the familial abuse, and the overwhelming guilt, not to mention the lack of knowledge and understanding really are written amazingly. This is almost all show and little tell. It's so visceral and heartfelt. The core of this book and where it shines best is the complex emotions among the characters.
But this book is also funny. Zingers and one-liners, witty byplay: yes. But also the practical jokes, the fun things they do to dig at each other. Just when you think it's going to get overwhelmed with the weight of pain, someone cracks a joke. And some of the funny stuff is also sweet and endearing or deeply bittersweet.
That's probably the best word for this book: bittersweet. It was just so beautiful with it. I can't recommend this book enough.
This review is ©June 2017 by Monique N. and has been posted to Netgalley.
Star Rating: ★★★★½
Heat Rating: ☀☀☼☼☼
An Advanced Reader Copy (ARC) of this book was received free via Netgalley for an honest review.
After the debacle that was the last Violet Duke book I read, I knew I'd have to try another. And All There Is was the best choice I could have made. Emma's and Jake's story was phenomenal!
I loved the set up for the book: two kids who loved each other but were torn apart with so much anger and pain between them meeting again as adults and finding that sometimes, no matter the issues between them, love endures and survives. Both Emma and Jake suffer from guilt over the night a fire ripped through Emma's home, killing her young brother. But that night remains shrouded in mystery and each of them only knows part of the story.
Watching them struggle with their terrible internal scars is painful in the extreme, but watching them fall in love with the adult versions of themselves is immeasurably sweet. The bitterness of the years of separation, the familial abuse, and the overwhelming guilt, not to mention the lack of knowledge and understanding really are written amazingly. This is almost all show and little tell. It's so visceral and heartfelt. The core of this book and where it shines best is the complex emotions among the characters.
But this book is also funny. Zingers and one-liners, witty byplay: yes. But also the practical jokes, the fun things they do to dig at each other. Just when you think it's going to get overwhelmed with the weight of pain, someone cracks a joke. And some of the funny stuff is also sweet and endearing or deeply bittersweet.
That's probably the best word for this book: bittersweet. It was just so beautiful with it. I can't recommend this book enough.
This review is ©June 2017 by Monique N. and has been posted to Netgalley.
July 15, 2017
There are times when life throws you a curve ball. Sometimes for the good, other times it’s a path that haunts your soul. For Emma - a unforgettable night from her past changes the course of her life. Fleeing from the memories and the pain, Emma pulls up roots and heads to Juniper Hills with her sister in tow. Planning a ‘new’ life that leaves those unpleasant memories by the wayside.
In Juniper Hills, Emma owns her own bakery. A way to provide a nice life for her sister with the support from their newly adopted town. With the demands of custom creations, running the bakery and taking care of Megan - Emma rarely has time for a love life. Something that has been more of an irritant of late. Why couldn’t Emma find someone that wanted her AND the life she established?
After a flood at the bakery, Emma finds herself face to face with the one person from her past that still torments her thoughts. The Jake standing in Emma’s bakery is a far cry from the young boy from the past. He has been battered and broken in his own right, but Jake definitely still feels everything that remained in his heart for the girl next door. As Emma struggles to overcome her pain from the past, Jake shows her that the heart can heal in ways you wouldn’t expect. Can these two overcome the stigma and pain that ripped them apart?
First let me say I was excited to jump into a new series by Violet Duke!! When diving into a book by Duke, you know its going to be pretty good. The plot of this book revolves around Emma and Jake. Two next door neighbors that were toying with more than friendship when tragedy struck. Through a series of unexpected events, they find themselves back in the same place again. The pain from the past still taints the obvious attraction that the two feel. With their paths intertwined, Jake and Emma feel the heartache that plagues them both.
All I Want is the sweet type of romance that leaves you with a smile on your face. A perfect beginning to a series that is simply the epitome of all that Violet Duke graces her readers with.
In Juniper Hills, Emma owns her own bakery. A way to provide a nice life for her sister with the support from their newly adopted town. With the demands of custom creations, running the bakery and taking care of Megan - Emma rarely has time for a love life. Something that has been more of an irritant of late. Why couldn’t Emma find someone that wanted her AND the life she established?
After a flood at the bakery, Emma finds herself face to face with the one person from her past that still torments her thoughts. The Jake standing in Emma’s bakery is a far cry from the young boy from the past. He has been battered and broken in his own right, but Jake definitely still feels everything that remained in his heart for the girl next door. As Emma struggles to overcome her pain from the past, Jake shows her that the heart can heal in ways you wouldn’t expect. Can these two overcome the stigma and pain that ripped them apart?
First let me say I was excited to jump into a new series by Violet Duke!! When diving into a book by Duke, you know its going to be pretty good. The plot of this book revolves around Emma and Jake. Two next door neighbors that were toying with more than friendship when tragedy struck. Through a series of unexpected events, they find themselves back in the same place again. The pain from the past still taints the obvious attraction that the two feel. With their paths intertwined, Jake and Emma feel the heartache that plagues them both.
All I Want is the sweet type of romance that leaves you with a smile on your face. A perfect beginning to a series that is simply the epitome of all that Violet Duke graces her readers with.
July 2, 2017
Why did it have to end?!?! Sorry, I tend to get this way when I fall in love with the characters and their story, which is exactly what happened. I absolutely adored Emma and Jake as well as the secondary characters, namely Megan and Carter. I really hope we see them again down the road. I'd also appreciate catching up with Emma and Jake, too. You know, because I loved them so much.
I must give credit to Violet Duke for her masterful and poetic storylines and development of her characters and the world in which they live. As a reader, I long to be engulfed by a book, pulled into the characters lives so that I feel like I'm experiencing every moment and emotion along with them. Violet has this ability in spades. Every book I've read of hers has allowed me to have such an experience. Also, the drama and angst that pepper her stories are never contrived or unrealistic. She creates back stories and histories that shape her characters thoughts and actions to the point that they need to find a way to let the past go, accept that they both want and deserve happiness, and revel in the love that surrounds them. We were given nothing less with Emma and Jake. They were both attempting to leave the past behind along with all the messy emotions that were linked to the fatal accidental fire that changed the course of their once hopeful young love. This second chance had them both reeling from the painful memories and clinging to the love that was destined to be from the moment they met. You're going to want to keep a few tissues handy. Don't be scared, it will only be a few trickles here and there. I would find myself smiling and anxious for the next moment and then shedding a few tears at a triggered memory or current heartbreak that Emma of Jake would experience. But I loved ever step of their heartbreaking and hopeful journey back to what was always meant to be.
I voluntarily reviewed an Advance Readers Copy of this book.
I must give credit to Violet Duke for her masterful and poetic storylines and development of her characters and the world in which they live. As a reader, I long to be engulfed by a book, pulled into the characters lives so that I feel like I'm experiencing every moment and emotion along with them. Violet has this ability in spades. Every book I've read of hers has allowed me to have such an experience. Also, the drama and angst that pepper her stories are never contrived or unrealistic. She creates back stories and histories that shape her characters thoughts and actions to the point that they need to find a way to let the past go, accept that they both want and deserve happiness, and revel in the love that surrounds them. We were given nothing less with Emma and Jake. They were both attempting to leave the past behind along with all the messy emotions that were linked to the fatal accidental fire that changed the course of their once hopeful young love. This second chance had them both reeling from the painful memories and clinging to the love that was destined to be from the moment they met. You're going to want to keep a few tissues handy. Don't be scared, it will only be a few trickles here and there. I would find myself smiling and anxious for the next moment and then shedding a few tears at a triggered memory or current heartbreak that Emma of Jake would experience. But I loved ever step of their heartbreaking and hopeful journey back to what was always meant to be.
I voluntarily reviewed an Advance Readers Copy of this book.
June 27, 2017
Fourteen years ago Emma’s life was forever changed when an accidental fire resulted in a scarred sister, the death of her stepbrother and the demise of her parent’s marriage. She has moved forward with her life and owns her own bakery however she has never really made peace with that night especially as the boy she had a crush on, Jake, accepted responsibility for the tragedy.
Jake has never made peace with that night either. He was able to save Emma and her sister but her brother’s death is something that he has never gotten over. He accepted responsibility however the secrets of that night haunt him to this day. He has started a construction company however it is hard to move past the stigma that is attached because of it.
Jake is back in town for a job for the library however it has been delayed however in the interim the bakery needs some repairs. What he didn’t know was who the bakery owner was and how now that they had met again neither of their lives would ever be the same. Will this finally be their opportunity to gain closure on that night and their feelings for each other?
I loved this story of two people feeling guilt and responsibility for something beyond their control who finally have their chance at happiness. I voluntarily reviewed an Advanced Reader Copy of this book.
Jake has never made peace with that night either. He was able to save Emma and her sister but her brother’s death is something that he has never gotten over. He accepted responsibility however the secrets of that night haunt him to this day. He has started a construction company however it is hard to move past the stigma that is attached because of it.
Jake is back in town for a job for the library however it has been delayed however in the interim the bakery needs some repairs. What he didn’t know was who the bakery owner was and how now that they had met again neither of their lives would ever be the same. Will this finally be their opportunity to gain closure on that night and their feelings for each other?
I loved this story of two people feeling guilt and responsibility for something beyond their control who finally have their chance at happiness. I voluntarily reviewed an Advanced Reader Copy of this book.
June 29, 2017
All There Is by Violet Duke was my first read by this author and it held quite the punch. This was an emotional and sweet story about a second chance at love.
Two kids who were friends and neighbors and maybe something more, but whose lives were torn apart after one tragic night. When their family house burned down, Emma Stevens and her sister were pulled out by Jake Rowan. But her stepbrother did not make it out. And the cause for all the destruction and heartache? Jake.
Years later Jake is back and helping Emma, but even so, she can never forgive. Both struggle with guilt of that night and find it hard to move on. Though the base of the story is sad and difficult, we also get a touch of humor that helps lighten the story when needed. But can two broken people find forgiveness and a second chance?
All There Is will pull you in from the beginning and warm your heart. There is heartache, but as Emma and Jake reconnect, there is also hope and forgiveness. This was such a sweet story about a second chance at love.
Happy reading
Two kids who were friends and neighbors and maybe something more, but whose lives were torn apart after one tragic night. When their family house burned down, Emma Stevens and her sister were pulled out by Jake Rowan. But her stepbrother did not make it out. And the cause for all the destruction and heartache? Jake.
Years later Jake is back and helping Emma, but even so, she can never forgive. Both struggle with guilt of that night and find it hard to move on. Though the base of the story is sad and difficult, we also get a touch of humor that helps lighten the story when needed. But can two broken people find forgiveness and a second chance?
All There Is will pull you in from the beginning and warm your heart. There is heartache, but as Emma and Jake reconnect, there is also hope and forgiveness. This was such a sweet story about a second chance at love.
Happy reading
July 19, 2017
What a phenomenal start to this series! A second-chance romance full of new beginnings, love, laughter, tears, hardships, forgiveness and redemption. I loved how Emma and Jake took the time to develop their relationship, even with all the complications from their past trying to sneak their way in. I think Emma's sister Megan may be one of my favorite female characters ever! Her courage and strength were awe-inspiring, and I cannot wait to see her get the HEA she so richly deserves. I am a longtime fan of Ms. Duke, and she never ceases to amaze me with the depth she gives her characters. This book was no exception. I'm anxiously awaiting whatever comes next.
May 28, 2017
I was given an ARC from NetGalley in exchange for an honest and independent review.
A slightly humorous and lighthearted romance which was fun to read, although there was a more serious storyline to the book. The slow building relationship between Emma and Jake , tainted a bit by their history was well portrayed. I really liked the setting in a small town, with all the associated openness and everyone knowing everyone's business.
A sweet book which made me smile. 3.5 stars
A slightly humorous and lighthearted romance which was fun to read, although there was a more serious storyline to the book. The slow building relationship between Emma and Jake , tainted a bit by their history was well portrayed. I really liked the setting in a small town, with all the associated openness and everyone knowing everyone's business.
A sweet book which made me smile. 3.5 stars
June 11, 2017
I loved seeing a sweet Jake, “careful!” He shot forward to pull her arm away from the still-cooling cooking grates. Running his calloused fingers over her skin gently, he inspected every inch of her arm, voice laden with concern. “Did you burn yourself, baby? Come over to the light so I can see.” Jake likes to tease his girl, “when you blush, your freckles come out to say hi. And you almost always blush when you see me.” I loved this book, I loved Jake.
June 30, 2017
I thoroughly enjoyed the romance between the hero and heroine, and I liked all the characters. I did struggle with the large passages of direct internal thought in the story. It pulled me out every time it happened. I did listen to the audio version, so that could have been a contributing factor. Overall, an enjoyable read. Happy reading!
July 6, 2017
Every emotion was wrung out of me
I loved this book. Wish I had a Jake! Both him and Emma went through the wringer. That he survived his incarceration with his beautiful spirit still intact was great. I was in tears reading quite a few of the chapters. The guilt they both carried was suffocating. That they found their way back to each other made me sigh happily. I seriously hope that more Juniper Hills books come out because I need to read Megan and Carter's stories. This little town has lots more stories to tell.
I loved this book. Wish I had a Jake! Both him and Emma went through the wringer. That he survived his incarceration with his beautiful spirit still intact was great. I was in tears reading quite a few of the chapters. The guilt they both carried was suffocating. That they found their way back to each other made me sigh happily. I seriously hope that more Juniper Hills books come out because I need to read Megan and Carter's stories. This little town has lots more stories to tell.
June 27, 2017
Oh my gosh! This book was the happiest, saddest book that I have read in a long time and I cried throughout the story. Violet Duke managed to grab my heart from the beginning and she still hasn't let it go! If you love a book that gives you a good cry and can only afford to buy one book this year, this is the book!
I voluntarily reviewed an Advanced Reader Copy of this book from NetGalley!
I voluntarily reviewed an Advanced Reader Copy of this book from NetGalley!
April 14, 2018
SO CUTE!!! I absolutely adored this book. And seriously where do I find a town like this?!? I would move in a hot second. No joke.
Favorite Quote:
“Woman, you need to stop deploying your freckles. I’m trying to dial it down a notch, remember?”
Favorite Quote:
“Woman, you need to stop deploying your freckles. I’m trying to dial it down a notch, remember?”
June 12, 2017
Jake and Emma's story was sad and tragic yet beautiful and triumphant. Slow paced with intrigue left for book 2, VD gave us some needed fun and humor while telling a love story destined from tragedy.
June 14, 2017
I picked this book randomly , since the summary sounded interesting and it was by an author I was not familiar with.
WOW, it’s one of the best stories I have read in a long time.
It’s the story about Emma Stevens and Jake Rowan. They were teens when they became neighbors and formed a special friendship. A friendship that was shattered when a fire destroys Emma’s house, kills a child and injures another one. As well as sends Jake to juvie when he confesses to a fire he didn’t start.
Fast forward 14 years and they meet again. I won’t spoil the story for you but I will tell you that it’s more than the plot.
It’s a story about family loyalties and lack thereof. About family dynamics and some of them dysfunctional. A story about regrets , guilt, walls built around the heart to protect oneself. But also a story about redemption, acceptance, overcoming adversity, finding hope and love. A reminder that life is messy and not always predictable. That yes, you need to be true to yourself, but that you also need to be open to possibilities. Because in doing so, you might find the biggest present of them all - love.
At times you will want to cry, laugh, shake the characters and cheer them.
The secondary characters are wonderful and I just can see another complex and challenging book for Megan and Carter.
Definitely a rollercoaster ride worth taking.
I was gifted this book by Netgalley. The opinions expressed are solely my own.
WOW, it’s one of the best stories I have read in a long time.
It’s the story about Emma Stevens and Jake Rowan. They were teens when they became neighbors and formed a special friendship. A friendship that was shattered when a fire destroys Emma’s house, kills a child and injures another one. As well as sends Jake to juvie when he confesses to a fire he didn’t start.
Fast forward 14 years and they meet again. I won’t spoil the story for you but I will tell you that it’s more than the plot.
It’s a story about family loyalties and lack thereof. About family dynamics and some of them dysfunctional. A story about regrets , guilt, walls built around the heart to protect oneself. But also a story about redemption, acceptance, overcoming adversity, finding hope and love. A reminder that life is messy and not always predictable. That yes, you need to be true to yourself, but that you also need to be open to possibilities. Because in doing so, you might find the biggest present of them all - love.
At times you will want to cry, laugh, shake the characters and cheer them.
The secondary characters are wonderful and I just can see another complex and challenging book for Megan and Carter.
Definitely a rollercoaster ride worth taking.
I was gifted this book by Netgalley. The opinions expressed are solely my own.
October 13, 2017
Another wonderful read by this phenomenal author.
June 7, 2017
I received a free copy of this book to read and review for Wicked Reads.
Lots of emotional baggage in this book, but I think the writer does an excellent job of describing the horror that is the past and the people who have to learn how to live life afterwards.
Emma feels unending guilt about the fact that her little brother died after her home caught on fire while she was home babysitting. The adult Emma constantly second guesses her teenage self and has nightmares about what she did or didn't do that night. Her sister, Megan, was also home that night and while she was able to save her life, Megan was severely burned.
Also feeling the guilt of the past is Jake. Jake lived next door to Emma and she was his first true love. Nothing ever came of it because of the fire that took the life of Emma's little brother. A fire that he took responsibility for. A crime that his father coerced him to admit to in order that his older brother and his dreams would be saved. Compounding that crime is that his father had his name changed before the sentencing hearing (as well as Jake's other siblings last names) so that his name and that of his smarter, older son would not be tarnished by this crime.
Jake has lots of regrets about the past, yet does not outwardly show how much his family has hurt him by the betrayal by his father and subsequent betrayals by this mother. His younger siblings as well as his older brother have rallied around him and encourage him to fight for his life rather than just take what it hands him.
Emma has a hard letting go of the past, of the boy she knew to get the know the man Jake has become. She comes to love Jake but can't forgive him or herself for failing to save her brother.
This book has it all and its written with empathy and compassion along with hope for a better future.
~~Wicked Reads Review Team~~
Lots of emotional baggage in this book, but I think the writer does an excellent job of describing the horror that is the past and the people who have to learn how to live life afterwards.
Emma feels unending guilt about the fact that her little brother died after her home caught on fire while she was home babysitting. The adult Emma constantly second guesses her teenage self and has nightmares about what she did or didn't do that night. Her sister, Megan, was also home that night and while she was able to save her life, Megan was severely burned.
Also feeling the guilt of the past is Jake. Jake lived next door to Emma and she was his first true love. Nothing ever came of it because of the fire that took the life of Emma's little brother. A fire that he took responsibility for. A crime that his father coerced him to admit to in order that his older brother and his dreams would be saved. Compounding that crime is that his father had his name changed before the sentencing hearing (as well as Jake's other siblings last names) so that his name and that of his smarter, older son would not be tarnished by this crime.
Jake has lots of regrets about the past, yet does not outwardly show how much his family has hurt him by the betrayal by his father and subsequent betrayals by this mother. His younger siblings as well as his older brother have rallied around him and encourage him to fight for his life rather than just take what it hands him.
Emma has a hard letting go of the past, of the boy she knew to get the know the man Jake has become. She comes to love Jake but can't forgive him or herself for failing to save her brother.
This book has it all and its written with empathy and compassion along with hope for a better future.
~~Wicked Reads Review Team~~
May 29, 2017
The technical stuff: This is book 1 of the Juniper Hills series, but it completely stands alone – *there is NO cliffhanger*. There is very minimal cursing in this book (no f-bombs) but there is one scene with on-screen sex. Also, this cover is so beautiful and perfect for these two characters.
This was my first Violet Duke book and I have to admit that I went in a little leery of the subject matter, but I was absolutely blown away by this book. I highlighted 28 times that I found myself chuckling out loud and that number was just a fraction of the lines that made me grin when I read them. But it isn't just a humorous book, this one also made me cry just a little. This story line premise should have been heavy and difficult to read, but this was so well written that even the few scenes that made me cry were so poignant that I felt sad, but it wasn't unbearable. I know this sounds like a wishy-washy description, but you really have to read this one to understand how Violet Duke has balanced incredible humor with heartbreaking moments. Side note: Without spoiling anything, I spent FAR too long trying to envision Jiminy Cricket's twin sister. Thank you, Ms. Duke for that mental image!
Jake and Emma have ridiculous chemistry from the very moment they first appear on the page together. I loved how they antagonized each other, and how they could read each other, even fourteen years after losing contact with each other. I loved how Jake protected Emma, how he loved her in the little ways without her even realizing that's what he was doing. I just happy sighed just thinking about it, that's how much I enjoyed their relationship. I am so intrigued by Megan and Carter's parts in this book and I hope that some day we will get to read their story because I know that if it comes to fruition, Ms. Duke will absolutely knock it out of the park.
If you enjoy a second chance romance that will make you laugh and cry, or just a book that features two characters who were literally meant. to. be. you really need to read this book. I am so glad that I gave it a chance.
I received an ARC of this book via NetGalley. I was under obligation to write this review, I did so because I so very much enjoyed this story and these characters.
This was my first Violet Duke book and I have to admit that I went in a little leery of the subject matter, but I was absolutely blown away by this book. I highlighted 28 times that I found myself chuckling out loud and that number was just a fraction of the lines that made me grin when I read them. But it isn't just a humorous book, this one also made me cry just a little. This story line premise should have been heavy and difficult to read, but this was so well written that even the few scenes that made me cry were so poignant that I felt sad, but it wasn't unbearable. I know this sounds like a wishy-washy description, but you really have to read this one to understand how Violet Duke has balanced incredible humor with heartbreaking moments. Side note: Without spoiling anything, I spent FAR too long trying to envision Jiminy Cricket's twin sister. Thank you, Ms. Duke for that mental image!
Jake and Emma have ridiculous chemistry from the very moment they first appear on the page together. I loved how they antagonized each other, and how they could read each other, even fourteen years after losing contact with each other. I loved how Jake protected Emma, how he loved her in the little ways without her even realizing that's what he was doing. I just happy sighed just thinking about it, that's how much I enjoyed their relationship. I am so intrigued by Megan and Carter's parts in this book and I hope that some day we will get to read their story because I know that if it comes to fruition, Ms. Duke will absolutely knock it out of the park.
If you enjoy a second chance romance that will make you laugh and cry, or just a book that features two characters who were literally meant. to. be. you really need to read this book. I am so glad that I gave it a chance.
I received an ARC of this book via NetGalley. I was under obligation to write this review, I did so because I so very much enjoyed this story and these characters.
June 9, 2017
So I was told that this was a Hallmark novel that would have me in tears and I must admit that I found myself in silent tears a time or two. Jake and Emma story was tragic to say the least but the love and respect they held for each other shined through as well. You can't shy away from a past that had so much of a baring on the future but you can use it as a growth mechanism and dissect each piece until you find peace.
Violet Duke did this heart-breaking romance justice. She brought all the hurt, lies, and missing pieces to life like no other. Making reality out of fiction and putting hatred and anger in the appropriate box.
"'That’s all there is to it.’ And you’d always make me believe it was that simple and that doable.”"
It can sometimes be that simple and complicated. You just have to believe and listen to more than the negative voices and traumatic nightmares.
Violet Duke did this heart-breaking romance justice. She brought all the hurt, lies, and missing pieces to life like no other. Making reality out of fiction and putting hatred and anger in the appropriate box.
"'That’s all there is to it.’ And you’d always make me believe it was that simple and that doable.”"
It can sometimes be that simple and complicated. You just have to believe and listen to more than the negative voices and traumatic nightmares.
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