What do you think?
Rate this book
Reclusive #1
Redefining Us
In order to truly save him, I need to redefine us.
Xander Dixon was my best friend.
Loyal and dependable.
A brave warrior.
A permanent presence in my life until that fateful day he boarded a plane headed overseas.
Xander’s unwelcome silence haunted me for three years…
Until he suddenly resurfaces.
Blinded by misplaced fury.
Trapped in a pool of darkness.
Unable to escape the perpetual pain.
Though it would be easy to walk away, I refuse to give up on him.
I want to know his misery and torment, so I can rescue him.
Then Xander will finally be mine.
Xander Dixon was my best friend.
Loyal and dependable.
A brave warrior.
A permanent presence in my life until that fateful day he boarded a plane headed overseas.
Xander’s unwelcome silence haunted me for three years…
Until he suddenly resurfaces.
Blinded by misplaced fury.
Trapped in a pool of darkness.
Unable to escape the perpetual pain.
Though it would be easy to walk away, I refuse to give up on him.
I want to know his misery and torment, so I can rescue him.
Then Xander will finally be mine.
224 pages, Paperback
First published May 12, 2017
813 people are currently reading
1533 people want to read
About the author
Harloe Rae
44 books6,241 followersHarloe Rae is a USA Today & Amazon Top 10 bestselling author. Her passion for writing and reading has taken on a whole new meaning. Each day is an unforgettable adventure.
She's a Minnesota gal with a serious addiction to romance. She’s always chasing an epic happily ever after. When she’s not buried in the writing cave, Harloe can be found hanging with her hubby and son. If the weather permits, she loves being lakeside or out in the country with her horses.
She writes emotional, heartfelt romance with swoony heroes and sassy leading ladies. Her titles are available on Amazon.
Find all the latest on her site www.harloe-rae.blog
Subscribe to her newsletter at http://bit.ly/HarloesList
Join her reader group, Harloe’s Hotties, at http://www.facebook.com/harloehotties
She's a Minnesota gal with a serious addiction to romance. She’s always chasing an epic happily ever after. When she’s not buried in the writing cave, Harloe can be found hanging with her hubby and son. If the weather permits, she loves being lakeside or out in the country with her horses.
She writes emotional, heartfelt romance with swoony heroes and sassy leading ladies. Her titles are available on Amazon.
Find all the latest on her site www.harloe-rae.blog
Subscribe to her newsletter at http://bit.ly/HarloesList
Join her reader group, Harloe’s Hotties, at http://www.facebook.com/harloehotties
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 156 reviews
May 7, 2017
My thoughts on the author:
Where should I start? How about where I am recovering from my heart being shattered all over the place. Redefining Us is Harloe Rae’s debut book! Her words swallowed me up and had me fall in love with the book and characters. She is the real deal people! You can feel her story coming from her heart and most importantly her soul. It bleeds out onto the pages. I have never read a book where the words itself, from page to page, really have a hold on me. I read the blurb, and YES! It was down the alley of what I love to read. You already feel the darkness and emptiness. You feel the love and pain. So I knew without a doubt I needed this book in my life! Redefining Us will be here soon and I can not wait to one-click to have a copy of my own. Thank you Harloe for bringing us a heartbreaking beautiful story about a broken man and strong willed woman. I FLOVE this book!
My thoughts about the book:
Willow wears her heart on her sleeve. She is beautiful inside and out. She loved a man with her whole heart. Her best friend. But for three years he has disappeared out of her life. Like everything they had been through meant nothing. Willow has one regret, a secret that she never told anyone and wished she had. Is it too late now? Can she finally set herself free? Willow looks beyond her feelings and helps the ones that need it the most. Willow shows us she is strong where others are weak, but can also be weak where others are strong. So who can balance her out? I loved Willow and wanted to be her strength when she needed it. But as I got more into the book, I knew she would be alright.
“ I can’t stand to be touched. It feels like acid is burning my flesh then slowly ripping away from the bone.” ~ Xander
Xander of course does not start off broken. Life has made him that way. He lives with the darkness, hate, sorrow, guilt, and a huge gaping hole in his heart. He has shut down and is only a shell of himself. So before I knew where his mindset was, I thought Xander was a world class douche when he shut out his mom, then tried again with Willow. Instincts kicked in and Willow stayed. Xander was going through a spiral fall, learning to live in the darkness, and has lost all hope. Willow has never met this man, but is determined to help. Whether they stay only as a friends or more, she is there until the end. Xander finally realizes Willow is his calm, his light, she quiets the voices and nightmares that live in his head. When Xander finally releases his despair, Willow was there. That scene killed me! I cried with them. Finally it is time to let is go...
“I feel like Xander is reciting a poem to my soul with every drive into my core. What is happening feels meant to be on an instinctual level.” ~ Willow
Redefining Us is dark, sexy, and so emotional. All the feels you have with this book stays deep within you. Xander’s and Willow’s love is on a whole different level. The sexy hot scenes were scorching! It was raw and real as they let their instincts take over. Powerful..that is the best word to describe this book. My heart goes out to those who suffer and battle demons everyday. Redefining Us is my top favorite this year and is a definite must read, cheese and rice <3
“I love you so fucking much Wills. I’ll spend the rest of my years proving that to you. Life has been so fucking dark, but since you’ve been around, there is a blinding light reflecting everywhere.” ~ Xander
Read
November 22, 2025
Redefining Us is a new standalone available May 28th by brand new author Harloe Rae.
Let me start off saying that this book has a lot of emotions. It's raw, and cuts you deep. Xander has previously done some tours overseas and the battles he faced there came home with him. He has lost a lot of good friends in the service, and he is fighting so many demons that he secludes himself from the world, even his old best friend Willow.
Willow is the PERFECT heroine in this book. She is kind, honest and willing to do whatever she can to help ruin the walls and barriers her once best friend has put up. It may have been 3 years since she last saw him, but the feelings she's had have not be forgotten. So she will do everything in her power to fight tooth and nail, especially if Xander is the one throwing them.
I actually found it hard to believe that this was Harlow Rae's first published book. It was written so well, and it focuses on something so shattering and emotionally deep. Coming from someone that is good friends with and have dated veteran soldiers, this book took me on a whole other level than most books have. I not only read it, I breathed it, consumed it and tried not to cry with them. Which lets be honest, I did like a baby. I do promise there is a happy ending, and it was like a fresh breath of air. Total worth the roller coaster with the characters. This book is not for the soft hearted as it goes through some deep issues, but shows how true love really can be to fix someone and release their pain and worries. To me this love story is more genuine than 75% of the books I have read. It was real and so very very raw, yet it was all wrapped up and wonderfully written. I was begging for Willow to stay and help her best friend. I was yearning for Xander to break free from his monsters and learn to love again. I just loved these characters so much, it was inspiring.
I definitely recommend reading this book once it releases May 28th!!!
For a longer review at this book and others, please check out my blog at Trashy Biblo Blog
July 13, 2017
4 Childhood friends stars
Full review to come.
Full review to come.
May 20, 2017
I thought this was going to be JUST a friends to lovers love story but was more than that. It included themes of unwavering love, family, and friendship.... the effects of that war has on a person.... and universal messages that encouraged those in need to seek help, get answers, and overcome.
Xander and Willow have been best friends since childhood and inseparable ever since. That this, until, Xander enlists in the army and cuts off all contact with Willow and everyone. Now three years later, and with the request from her mother and Xander's mother as a last resort, Willow is ready to have answers. What happened to her best friend? Why is he so detached, so hollow, so angry and bitter of a shell of man that she once knew? And does he reciprocate what's always been in her her heart?
As for Xander, the man with the world upon his shoulders. His world is black, haunted by the screams of his comrades, the musk of their blood, grime, and deaths. He's a man plagued with the evergoing question of why him but not them? He thinks he's a man beyond saving. Beyond redemption. But what do you do when the light to your bleak and desolate world comes in the form of the girl that has always been embedded deep within your heart and soul? Will she be what sheds him of his demons and saves him from destruction and himself? Or is he well past salvaging?
Over all, a great book debut with a tad bit abrupt ending.*sorry!* I think what I liked most was the simple complexity of the novel and that it centers on Willow and Xander rebuilding and reconnecting and coping with Xander's current condition. There isn't any great scheme of a plot here or annoying subplots--- just, an ordinary gal and an ordinary guy just trying to make due with what was thrown at them and live their lives...hopefully, with each other in it.*wink wink*
This was a lovely beginning for Harloe Rae. Can't wait to see what she has in store for the future and am honored that she had reached out and included me in her journey as a writer. Thank you!
Xander and Willow have been best friends since childhood and inseparable ever since. That this, until, Xander enlists in the army and cuts off all contact with Willow and everyone. Now three years later, and with the request from her mother and Xander's mother as a last resort, Willow is ready to have answers. What happened to her best friend? Why is he so detached, so hollow, so angry and bitter of a shell of man that she once knew? And does he reciprocate what's always been in her her heart?
As for Xander, the man with the world upon his shoulders. His world is black, haunted by the screams of his comrades, the musk of their blood, grime, and deaths. He's a man plagued with the evergoing question of why him but not them? He thinks he's a man beyond saving. Beyond redemption. But what do you do when the light to your bleak and desolate world comes in the form of the girl that has always been embedded deep within your heart and soul? Will she be what sheds him of his demons and saves him from destruction and himself? Or is he well past salvaging?
Over all, a great book debut with a tad bit abrupt ending.*sorry!* I think what I liked most was the simple complexity of the novel and that it centers on Willow and Xander rebuilding and reconnecting and coping with Xander's current condition. There isn't any great scheme of a plot here or annoying subplots--- just, an ordinary gal and an ordinary guy just trying to make due with what was thrown at them and live their lives...hopefully, with each other in it.*wink wink*
This was a lovely beginning for Harloe Rae. Can't wait to see what she has in store for the future and am honored that she had reached out and included me in her journey as a writer. Thank you!
May 28, 2017
Three years ago, twenty-year-old best friends, Xander and Willow, had to say good-bye. It hurt both of them because things were going to change as Xander prepared to leave with his unit as they were being stationed overseas. But Xander promised to return and pick up their friendship exactly as it was, however, Willow wanted it to be a little different, though she didn't have the courage to voice it, to confess her love, knowing he'd still have to walk away. She just didn't realize he was completely walking away.
Willow is now a counselor for at-risk teens, and when her thoughts wander to sad territory, she resolutely stops them. He made his decision back then, the lack of any contact is evidence of that. But when she learns from her Mom that Xander has been back in the states for months, isolating himself and refusing to see any family, and though Willow doubts he'd want to see her either, her Mom can be awfully convincing. Willow just hopes this doesn't freshen her pain, adding new to the almost unbearable amount she already endures.
Xander has suffered, mentally, physically, and emotionally. Even sleep doesn't offer any comfort, the nightmares never seeming to leave him alone. Unfortunately, they don't stop during the day either. A year ago, he woke in a hospital, the injuries he'd sustained a testament to what he'd done through, but his mind unable to remember. He wishes that last part had continued because when he did remember, his mind couldn't handle it. When Willow, the woman he's always loved even though he never thought he was good enough for her, shows up unexpectedly, his first instinct is to push her away, which he does cruelly with his words. Something he quickly regrets as he realizes what he's done. His one chance to see her, having missed her every day, and he screws up. The weather seems to be giving him a second chance though.
Willow does as he asked, demanded, and leaves, albeit in tears over the loss of her past and the future she'd imagined for them. Unfortunately, it's hard to follow through as her car has become stuck. Xander tries to help, eager to get her away from him, and when thst doesn't work, reluctantly agrees to let her stay, though he'll stay in the shed. The next day, Xander's attitude continues regardless of how Willow tries to get through to him and she leaves. Upon returning the next day to free her car, she hears a crash from inside, knowing she can't leave in case he's hurt.
Shockingly, Xander releases Willow's touch isn't repulsive like others are, in fact, it's soothing. A feeling he craves. What happens next is as explosive as she's always known they would be, but Xander fears her reaction to his aggressiveness. Psst...Xander, she loved it. Willow's words, her genuine concern, finally gets through and Xander reaches out.
Can Willow help Xander? Will he let his guard down enough to allow her to? Can they not only renew the closeness they once shared, but discover the relationship both had always wanted? What did Xander go through while in the military? Will he ever find peace? Can he and Willow have a HEA?
One-click now and follow along as two people are reunited, both yearning for what could've been.
Now, and this in no way detracts from the author's talent as she quite vividly showed both Xander and Willow's struggles, but on a purely personal note, and if you'd like, feel free to stop reading because while I don't find this spoilerish, and instead deem it safety information, you may disagree, but it really disappoints me that neither were virgins. Now, I don't know if both lost theirs to others before Xander left, or if only one did and the other happened during the three years they were apart. If it was before, then I don't buy the depth of love they were supposed to have for each other. Both claimed love and wanting more than friendship, yet neither acted on it. I understand the fear of rejection or losing your best friend, but if you truly loved that person, no other would do, especially knowing they would know you were with somebody else. If it was after Xander left, as for Willow, I could understand if she was with someone else because Xander hadn't contacted her in three years and she had no way of reaching out to him as he was overseas and she couldn't get his address. But if Xander was during their years apart, shame on him. Again, he knew how he felt, he's the one that shut her out, not the other way around, so I consider it almost emotionally cheating. He was aware of what he was doing when he slept with others and that was in no way showing the love he supposedly had for Willow. I have to say, this situation did impact my rating.
**I voluntarily reviewed an Advanced Reader Copy of this book.**
Willow is now a counselor for at-risk teens, and when her thoughts wander to sad territory, she resolutely stops them. He made his decision back then, the lack of any contact is evidence of that. But when she learns from her Mom that Xander has been back in the states for months, isolating himself and refusing to see any family, and though Willow doubts he'd want to see her either, her Mom can be awfully convincing. Willow just hopes this doesn't freshen her pain, adding new to the almost unbearable amount she already endures.
Xander has suffered, mentally, physically, and emotionally. Even sleep doesn't offer any comfort, the nightmares never seeming to leave him alone. Unfortunately, they don't stop during the day either. A year ago, he woke in a hospital, the injuries he'd sustained a testament to what he'd done through, but his mind unable to remember. He wishes that last part had continued because when he did remember, his mind couldn't handle it. When Willow, the woman he's always loved even though he never thought he was good enough for her, shows up unexpectedly, his first instinct is to push her away, which he does cruelly with his words. Something he quickly regrets as he realizes what he's done. His one chance to see her, having missed her every day, and he screws up. The weather seems to be giving him a second chance though.
Willow does as he asked, demanded, and leaves, albeit in tears over the loss of her past and the future she'd imagined for them. Unfortunately, it's hard to follow through as her car has become stuck. Xander tries to help, eager to get her away from him, and when thst doesn't work, reluctantly agrees to let her stay, though he'll stay in the shed. The next day, Xander's attitude continues regardless of how Willow tries to get through to him and she leaves. Upon returning the next day to free her car, she hears a crash from inside, knowing she can't leave in case he's hurt.
Shockingly, Xander releases Willow's touch isn't repulsive like others are, in fact, it's soothing. A feeling he craves. What happens next is as explosive as she's always known they would be, but Xander fears her reaction to his aggressiveness. Psst...Xander, she loved it. Willow's words, her genuine concern, finally gets through and Xander reaches out.
Can Willow help Xander? Will he let his guard down enough to allow her to? Can they not only renew the closeness they once shared, but discover the relationship both had always wanted? What did Xander go through while in the military? Will he ever find peace? Can he and Willow have a HEA?
One-click now and follow along as two people are reunited, both yearning for what could've been.
Now, and this in no way detracts from the author's talent as she quite vividly showed both Xander and Willow's struggles, but on a purely personal note, and if you'd like, feel free to stop reading because while I don't find this spoilerish, and instead deem it safety information, you may disagree, but it really disappoints me that neither were virgins. Now, I don't know if both lost theirs to others before Xander left, or if only one did and the other happened during the three years they were apart. If it was before, then I don't buy the depth of love they were supposed to have for each other. Both claimed love and wanting more than friendship, yet neither acted on it. I understand the fear of rejection or losing your best friend, but if you truly loved that person, no other would do, especially knowing they would know you were with somebody else. If it was after Xander left, as for Willow, I could understand if she was with someone else because Xander hadn't contacted her in three years and she had no way of reaching out to him as he was overseas and she couldn't get his address. But if Xander was during their years apart, shame on him. Again, he knew how he felt, he's the one that shut her out, not the other way around, so I consider it almost emotionally cheating. He was aware of what he was doing when he slept with others and that was in no way showing the love he supposedly had for Willow. I have to say, this situation did impact my rating.
**I voluntarily reviewed an Advanced Reader Copy of this book.**
June 1, 2017
★☆★ $0.99 NEW RELEASE ★☆★
Redefining Us is LIVE!
Universal Amazon Link ➜ http://getbook.at/RedefiningUs
Grab this new release for only 99¢ or FREE with Kindle Unlimited!
Redefining Us is LIVE!
Universal Amazon Link ➜ http://getbook.at/RedefiningUs
Grab this new release for only 99¢ or FREE with Kindle Unlimited!
Want to read
May 30, 2018💝FREE on Amazon today (5/30/2018)!💝
Blurb:
In order to truly save him, I need to redefine us.
Xander Dixon was my best friend.
Loyal and dependable.
A brave warrior.
A permanent presence in my life until that fateful day he boarded a plane headed overseas.
Xander’s unwelcome silence haunted me for three years…
Until he suddenly resurfaces.
Blinded by misplaced fury.
Trapped in a pool of darkness.
Unable to escape the perpetual pain.
Though it would be easy to walk away, I refuse to give up on him.
I want to know his misery and torment, so I can rescue him.
Then Xander will finally be mine.
Blurb:
In order to truly save him, I need to redefine us.
Xander Dixon was my best friend.
Loyal and dependable.
A brave warrior.
A permanent presence in my life until that fateful day he boarded a plane headed overseas.
Xander’s unwelcome silence haunted me for three years…
Until he suddenly resurfaces.
Blinded by misplaced fury.
Trapped in a pool of darkness.
Unable to escape the perpetual pain.
Though it would be easy to walk away, I refuse to give up on him.
I want to know his misery and torment, so I can rescue him.
Then Xander will finally be mine.
July 18, 2019
Really, really bad. Just bad.
This is probably one of the worst books I have read in a while. While the premise of the story is a good one, the execution is sorely lacking. The writing is choppy and very amateurish. One moment Xander is suffering from a severe anxiety attack caused by PTSD and the next is he thinking about Willow naked. Same thing for Willow. She is supposed to be a counsellor and yet all she is worrying about is how hot Xander looks while chopping wood and how she can get him naked. Completely ludicrous. Please, save your time and money. There are many good books out there written about soldiers coming home and struggling with PTSD. This is not one of them.
This is probably one of the worst books I have read in a while. While the premise of the story is a good one, the execution is sorely lacking. The writing is choppy and very amateurish. One moment Xander is suffering from a severe anxiety attack caused by PTSD and the next is he thinking about Willow naked. Same thing for Willow. She is supposed to be a counsellor and yet all she is worrying about is how hot Xander looks while chopping wood and how she can get him naked. Completely ludicrous. Please, save your time and money. There are many good books out there written about soldiers coming home and struggling with PTSD. This is not one of them.
June 6, 2017
A beautiful debut novel!
You know how I love those wounded warriors who find healing in the arms of love. Xander is just such a character, and Willow, his childhood friend comes back to help him heal. It's a passionate, heartbreaking, and in the end, uplifting story.
The author shows so much promise for more great books with her passionate descriptions and true depth of feeling. Looking forward to more from Harloe Rae!
Don't miss this one~
You know how I love those wounded warriors who find healing in the arms of love. Xander is just such a character, and Willow, his childhood friend comes back to help him heal. It's a passionate, heartbreaking, and in the end, uplifting story.
The author shows so much promise for more great books with her passionate descriptions and true depth of feeling. Looking forward to more from Harloe Rae!
Don't miss this one~
May 22, 2017
I knew the moment I read the blurb for Redefining Us that I had to have this story!
I'm a huge fan of stories where characters come from troubled pasts or they're struggling with serious issues. Such is the case for Xander and Willow, the two main characters in this story. Though we're not really told a whole lot about Xander's problems in the beginning, only that he had returned from being overseas and that he was somewhat of a recluse, bits and pieces are revealed as he opens up more and more with Willow.
The author did a great job with the initial confrontation with Willow and Xander. I could feel the emotions between them--Xander not wanting anything to do with her and Willow concerned about his well-being--but for me it kind of fell flat after that. I struggled to believe that Xander was as tormented as we're led to believe simply because he gave into Willow so easily. For someone as distraught as him, seems it should've taken a lot longer to find out his inner troubles. Again, it's my opinion.
Willow, on the other hand, has some background dealing with this because of her job. I wanted to read more about how she worked with him and not just fell back in love with him all over again. True, they had a past when they were both younger, but their bonding happened a little too fast for me to find it believable.
Overall, it was a great story, I just needed to be able to "feel" more. Harloe Rae is an author that's sure to make a strong foundation with readers. I look forward to reading more of her work.
I'm a huge fan of stories where characters come from troubled pasts or they're struggling with serious issues. Such is the case for Xander and Willow, the two main characters in this story. Though we're not really told a whole lot about Xander's problems in the beginning, only that he had returned from being overseas and that he was somewhat of a recluse, bits and pieces are revealed as he opens up more and more with Willow.
The author did a great job with the initial confrontation with Willow and Xander. I could feel the emotions between them--Xander not wanting anything to do with her and Willow concerned about his well-being--but for me it kind of fell flat after that. I struggled to believe that Xander was as tormented as we're led to believe simply because he gave into Willow so easily. For someone as distraught as him, seems it should've taken a lot longer to find out his inner troubles. Again, it's my opinion.
Willow, on the other hand, has some background dealing with this because of her job. I wanted to read more about how she worked with him and not just fell back in love with him all over again. True, they had a past when they were both younger, but their bonding happened a little too fast for me to find it believable.
Overall, it was a great story, I just needed to be able to "feel" more. Harloe Rae is an author that's sure to make a strong foundation with readers. I look forward to reading more of her work.
May 14, 2017
What an amazing debut novel Harloe Rae!! Loved every minute of this friends to lovers romance this story really touches your heart, so much emotion!! Willow and Xander have been friends since they where children then Xander went and left for the Army, with promises to keep in touch!!! Three years later Xander is back does not want to see anyone!! Willow is there for Xander breaking down walls and keeps fighting for Xander!! These two are meant for one another!! Most definitely will be reading more by this author!!!
May 16, 2017
A one of a kind original story that gets you in the feels from the moment you start the book. Harloe has a way with words with the way she so eloquently describes Willow, Xander and the journey he has gone through. This book truly is a matter of the heart and what matters most. This book is a beautiful story that will be sure to stay with you long after you are done reading. Congratulations Harloe for creating a story that will be sure to capture all of us and not let go.
February 10, 2018
Another Super Sweet Book!
Lord, my heart may explode from this series! Again, this reminds me of my husband after he came back from the Mid East. He wasn't as bad, but we had to rebuild our connections, and experienced many of the same struggles. The author's description of grueling heartbreak was on point. I don't get thrown back into that headspace much anymore, but I was definitely there and bawling through this one.
Lord, my heart may explode from this series! Again, this reminds me of my husband after he came back from the Mid East. He wasn't as bad, but we had to rebuild our connections, and experienced many of the same struggles. The author's description of grueling heartbreak was on point. I don't get thrown back into that headspace much anymore, but I was definitely there and bawling through this one.
July 8, 2017
Wow, what a great read!
This was recommended by a friend. I started it without reading the blurb or reviews.
I really enjoyed Willow and Xander's story. The love, heartache and chemistry was palpable. I felt the despair and anxiety they felt.
This was recommended by a friend. I started it without reading the blurb or reviews.
I really enjoyed Willow and Xander's story. The love, heartache and chemistry was palpable. I felt the despair and anxiety they felt.
June 27, 2017
This is the debut novel for author Harloe Rae, and it was well written and fun to read as far as debut novels go. The cover is marvelous and the pages are beautiful I am so glad that I was able to procure a paperback copy of this newly released novel.
When we first meet Xander his is living in a little shack in the woods, back from overseas but away from everyone that he knows. He has bad PTSD from events that occurred overseas and can’t stand to be around anyone or be touched. That is until Willow, his friend from high school, shows up and he doesn’t hate being around her. Now that they are able to spend some time together they are able to see that they are very in love, even with all the tense moments that the PTSD provides in the narrative of the book.
Willow and Xander were friends since they were 13, and actually in love with each other, but neither one of them knew it because they never had the nerve to tell the other one. The book is told from alternating points of view, bouncing back and fourth between Willow and Xander every chapter, I always enjoy stories like this so that you can get a wider perspective on the circumstances of the story.
In this instance though the circumstances don’t really matter much, because the back story is just the framework for what the actual story is-a sexy reunion between two people that were meant to be together but haven’t been able to yet but they are about to don’t worry. Xander and Willow are cute together, and the complexities that Xander faces makes him the more developed character of the two. Still, it was hard for me to feel the deep emotional connection that I like to feel with my characters when I read a book.
Let’s face it though, we’re not exactly focused on their personalities here: Of course this is an erotica novel so there are many explicit sex scenes in this book. For the most part they are pretty sexy and racy. Other than a just a couple cringe-worthy lines or verbiages that are fairly common in books such as these I think that this was an entertaining book, well worth the .99 cents that it costs on Amazon (or it’s free on KU!!).
I’m not altogether sure how I feel about the ex-soldier PTSD thing being a plot device for a book like this, but I also remember that these books are for fun and fantasy, so don’t begrudge anyone who enjoys it either. I was just a storyline and this is just like any other romance novel and if you think that you won’t like it than you should just steer clear. I know these types of books aren’t about complex medical conditions but his one left me thinking about that part a little more. If you do like this kind of (EXsoldier) plot I would recommend it, and I will even say that it has a decent ending that didn’t have me rolling my eyes.
When we first meet Xander his is living in a little shack in the woods, back from overseas but away from everyone that he knows. He has bad PTSD from events that occurred overseas and can’t stand to be around anyone or be touched. That is until Willow, his friend from high school, shows up and he doesn’t hate being around her. Now that they are able to spend some time together they are able to see that they are very in love, even with all the tense moments that the PTSD provides in the narrative of the book.
Willow and Xander were friends since they were 13, and actually in love with each other, but neither one of them knew it because they never had the nerve to tell the other one. The book is told from alternating points of view, bouncing back and fourth between Willow and Xander every chapter, I always enjoy stories like this so that you can get a wider perspective on the circumstances of the story.
In this instance though the circumstances don’t really matter much, because the back story is just the framework for what the actual story is-a sexy reunion between two people that were meant to be together but haven’t been able to yet but they are about to don’t worry. Xander and Willow are cute together, and the complexities that Xander faces makes him the more developed character of the two. Still, it was hard for me to feel the deep emotional connection that I like to feel with my characters when I read a book.
Let’s face it though, we’re not exactly focused on their personalities here: Of course this is an erotica novel so there are many explicit sex scenes in this book. For the most part they are pretty sexy and racy. Other than a just a couple cringe-worthy lines or verbiages that are fairly common in books such as these I think that this was an entertaining book, well worth the .99 cents that it costs on Amazon (or it’s free on KU!!).
I’m not altogether sure how I feel about the ex-soldier PTSD thing being a plot device for a book like this, but I also remember that these books are for fun and fantasy, so don’t begrudge anyone who enjoys it either. I was just a storyline and this is just like any other romance novel and if you think that you won’t like it than you should just steer clear. I know these types of books aren’t about complex medical conditions but his one left me thinking about that part a little more. If you do like this kind of (EXsoldier) plot I would recommend it, and I will even say that it has a decent ending that didn’t have me rolling my eyes.
May 26, 2017
Wow, I was shocked to find out this was from a debut author! For this being her first book, you would never tell and it hooks you from the beginning to end. You will be shattered right along with Xander and your emotions will be tested when it comes to the feels you experience between Xander and Willow. This is not your typical BF to lover’s book; it touches on some sensitive topics such as battling demons when you return from the war zone. It is truly heartbreaking and this book may help others who have been in this situation when it comes to a relationship and coming home.
We get a dark, emotional and HAWT as heck passion read with this one. Willow and Xander who are so different even from childhood bonded as kids and have been BF since. There is a secret that is kept between both and even you wonder if it will go beyond the explosion or if it was a one time hard hit. Haha you must read the book to get this one. They are separated by his departure and learning of his return, Willow knows that she must go to him. Hold onto your heart when you read this cause, not only do you feel for his mom, you feel the hurt and battle scars that Xander is fighting as well as what Willow is experiencing during this time. Willow is his exotic tree and healer! I had a blond moment during the tattoo reveal cause I was just like Willow and couldn’t figure it out, hello it’s staring at our faces. Duh, but that is so sweet.
I loved the dual POV cause we got to share their feelings and see the suffering that others struggle with and how it impacts both the veteran and the family/friends. I wanted to hug him at times, well except during that one time and all I could think was OK while that was HAWT, but the smell had to be strong. Not saying what cause my gag reflex was kicking in just reading it. This story is powerful, emotional and healing and leaves you feeling happy at the end. You can no go eat some cheese and rice now too! Haha
I cannot wait to read more from the author and hopefully we can see more of Xander and Willow down the road. You will truly be redefined after reading this. My only suggestion is that you have nothing planned as you will want to devour in one sitting.
We get a dark, emotional and HAWT as heck passion read with this one. Willow and Xander who are so different even from childhood bonded as kids and have been BF since. There is a secret that is kept between both and even you wonder if it will go beyond the explosion or if it was a one time hard hit. Haha you must read the book to get this one. They are separated by his departure and learning of his return, Willow knows that she must go to him. Hold onto your heart when you read this cause, not only do you feel for his mom, you feel the hurt and battle scars that Xander is fighting as well as what Willow is experiencing during this time. Willow is his exotic tree and healer! I had a blond moment during the tattoo reveal cause I was just like Willow and couldn’t figure it out, hello it’s staring at our faces. Duh, but that is so sweet.
I loved the dual POV cause we got to share their feelings and see the suffering that others struggle with and how it impacts both the veteran and the family/friends. I wanted to hug him at times, well except during that one time and all I could think was OK while that was HAWT, but the smell had to be strong. Not saying what cause my gag reflex was kicking in just reading it. This story is powerful, emotional and healing and leaves you feeling happy at the end. You can no go eat some cheese and rice now too! Haha
I cannot wait to read more from the author and hopefully we can see more of Xander and Willow down the road. You will truly be redefined after reading this. My only suggestion is that you have nothing planned as you will want to devour in one sitting.
May 28, 2017
4.5 Stars
As debut novels go I would have too say that Harloe Rae has a beauty on her hands, this was a fabulous read.
I thought she pitched the timber of the book just right, she showed just how hard and harsh life can really be.
Xander is back on home soil but he isn’t the man that he was before he left, he carries a whole new set of demons with him now and in a bid to protect not just himself but those that he loves, he makes the decision to isolate himself. Taking up residence in a rundown cottage in the middle of nowhere!
Now I suppose for many that would have been too much but for Xander I couldn’t help but feel that he was happy with his solitude, right up until Willow made it her mission to bring her friend back into the land of the living and to show him that life wasn’t as bad as he thought.
Xander will blow your mind, he was such an intense individual, I couldn’t get enough of him. He was so intense, so tough that I wanted to get to the bottom of what was eating him and to see him in all his glory, not the shadow that he appeared to be now. But could Willow breathe new life into this tortured soul?
Could she kick start his heart? Well that was a tall order.
Willow hadn’t had any contact with Xander for years, so it came as a bit of a shock when she first happened upon him again, she didn’t know what had happened to him but she could see that the man that she knew was still in there and she just had to try and encourage him to break down the protective shell that he had constructed around himself. But meeting his resilience head on she had to use every trick in the book to get Xander to see things her way.
I loved the connection between the two of them it was scintillating!
A realistic portrayal in my opinion on what it takes to find a love that is truly worth having, after all nothing that is worth having comes easy and the author uses that to her advantage.
As debut novels go I would have too say that Harloe Rae has a beauty on her hands, this was a fabulous read.
I thought she pitched the timber of the book just right, she showed just how hard and harsh life can really be.
Xander is back on home soil but he isn’t the man that he was before he left, he carries a whole new set of demons with him now and in a bid to protect not just himself but those that he loves, he makes the decision to isolate himself. Taking up residence in a rundown cottage in the middle of nowhere!
Now I suppose for many that would have been too much but for Xander I couldn’t help but feel that he was happy with his solitude, right up until Willow made it her mission to bring her friend back into the land of the living and to show him that life wasn’t as bad as he thought.
Xander will blow your mind, he was such an intense individual, I couldn’t get enough of him. He was so intense, so tough that I wanted to get to the bottom of what was eating him and to see him in all his glory, not the shadow that he appeared to be now. But could Willow breathe new life into this tortured soul?
Could she kick start his heart? Well that was a tall order.
Willow hadn’t had any contact with Xander for years, so it came as a bit of a shock when she first happened upon him again, she didn’t know what had happened to him but she could see that the man that she knew was still in there and she just had to try and encourage him to break down the protective shell that he had constructed around himself. But meeting his resilience head on she had to use every trick in the book to get Xander to see things her way.
I loved the connection between the two of them it was scintillating!
A realistic portrayal in my opinion on what it takes to find a love that is truly worth having, after all nothing that is worth having comes easy and the author uses that to her advantage.
June 16, 2017
*
Read more of my reviews at Whoo Gives A Hoot
*
I generously received this ARC from the in exchange for an honest review…
What an extraordinary start to a very promising writing career that is sure to come!
I am going to start off my saying that this book will give you all the feels and if you don't like that then this might not be the book for you. However, who doesn't like a story that makes them laugh, cry and leave them on the edge of their seats all at the same time? No one. That is who! The amazingly talented Harloe Rae delivers just that in this in her debut novel that will leave you both satisfied and begging for more.
Since I've been sick for the past three weeks it took me forever to read this book (thanks to the sickness that makes it nearly impossible to read), but as soon as I finally felt well enough I devoured this beautiful read. I absolutely adored every element of Xander and Willow's captivating story and was hooked until the very end! These two have a chemistry unlike any other and will have you experiencing something you wouldn't expect (this is a good thing, trust me).
I strongly and whole heartily recommend this debut novel and I will certainly reading everything from this author in the future!
I generously received this ARC from the in exchange for an honest review…
What an extraordinary start to a very promising writing career that is sure to come!
I am going to start off my saying that this book will give you all the feels and if you don't like that then this might not be the book for you. However, who doesn't like a story that makes them laugh, cry and leave them on the edge of their seats all at the same time? No one. That is who! The amazingly talented Harloe Rae delivers just that in this in her debut novel that will leave you both satisfied and begging for more.
Since I've been sick for the past three weeks it took me forever to read this book (thanks to the sickness that makes it nearly impossible to read), but as soon as I finally felt well enough I devoured this beautiful read. I absolutely adored every element of Xander and Willow's captivating story and was hooked until the very end! These two have a chemistry unlike any other and will have you experiencing something you wouldn't expect (this is a good thing, trust me).
I strongly and whole heartily recommend this debut novel and I will certainly reading everything from this author in the future!
May 28, 2017
Oh gosh!!! Normally when I read about a new author or any book I always have my mind on the male character. But this time it was so different, Willow took my heart as a strong person.
Xander made his decision and went for a year mission, things went wrong and he disappeared for 3 years.
The day that he left, Willow tried to tell to her best friend that she was in love with him, she didn't want to ruin their friendship or that's what she thought.
Three years later, without knowing about him at all, se receives a call from Xander's mom and finds that he came back a few months ago.
Xander is not the same man that it was years ago. He's angry, afraid, traumatized and so alone. Willow wants to be there for him, she still loves him. But he's not the same boy that was so good for her. He's distant and doesn't want help even knowing that she's the only one that can save him.
They didn't know they they were sharing the same feelings. They were best friends, but know the things are different and Willow is not a little girl anymore, and holding his hand through his hell was the step number one.
This book was very good in so many ways, I wish I could read more of them and know more about their future, I wanted to hug Xander so hard and help Willow, I really loved, it was raw, passionate I can't wait to read more from this author!
Xander made his decision and went for a year mission, things went wrong and he disappeared for 3 years.
The day that he left, Willow tried to tell to her best friend that she was in love with him, she didn't want to ruin their friendship or that's what she thought.
Three years later, without knowing about him at all, se receives a call from Xander's mom and finds that he came back a few months ago.
Xander is not the same man that it was years ago. He's angry, afraid, traumatized and so alone. Willow wants to be there for him, she still loves him. But he's not the same boy that was so good for her. He's distant and doesn't want help even knowing that she's the only one that can save him.
They didn't know they they were sharing the same feelings. They were best friends, but know the things are different and Willow is not a little girl anymore, and holding his hand through his hell was the step number one.
This book was very good in so many ways, I wish I could read more of them and know more about their future, I wanted to hug Xander so hard and help Willow, I really loved, it was raw, passionate I can't wait to read more from this author!
May 30, 2017
One of the struggles our Service Men and Women face day in and day out, when returning from the Harsh Realities of War, is PTSD and other Depression disorders. They don't often feel that there is a place they can turn to. Most of the time, our loved ones do not want to feel like a burden to us, therefore they hold all of their struggles inside.
Harloe Rae does an eloquent job of portraying the internal struggle our Veterans face on a daily basis. The harsh reality of war is that it isn't glamorous; it is horrific, cruel, life-altering, and traumatic. Xander is a Veteran of war and comes back home in an altered state, both mentally and physically. Willow is Xander's life-long best friend. She wants to help him, but Xander shuts her and everyone else out of his life, for fear of placing his traumatic experiences on their shoulders.
Willow must fight to break down Xander's walls and allow her to be there for him in his time of greatest need.
Redefining Us is an honest portrayal of the life of a solider trying to re-insert him/herself into society.
Harloe Rae does an eloquent job of portraying the internal struggle our Veterans face on a daily basis. The harsh reality of war is that it isn't glamorous; it is horrific, cruel, life-altering, and traumatic. Xander is a Veteran of war and comes back home in an altered state, both mentally and physically. Willow is Xander's life-long best friend. She wants to help him, but Xander shuts her and everyone else out of his life, for fear of placing his traumatic experiences on their shoulders.
Willow must fight to break down Xander's walls and allow her to be there for him in his time of greatest need.
Redefining Us is an honest portrayal of the life of a solider trying to re-insert him/herself into society.
May 27, 2017
Wow! What an amazing debut novel! When I read this blurb I knew that I wanted to read this book and I was not disappointed. This book captured my heart my heart from the first knock on Xander's door. I thought this was just going to be a friends to lovers romance, but this book is so much more.
Xander is home after his time overseas and he is barely surviving from severe PTSD. He has exiled himself to the middle of nowhere to be alone in his daily torment. Willow finds herself knocking on his door to see her childhood best friend and try to help him, but not without opposition from Xander.
Willow helps Xander heal and manages to not completely lose herself in the process. Willow is an amazingly strong woman who has loved her best friend for as long as she can remember.
Download this book to see how their journey will end...you will absolutely not be disappointed.
Xander is home after his time overseas and he is barely surviving from severe PTSD. He has exiled himself to the middle of nowhere to be alone in his daily torment. Willow finds herself knocking on his door to see her childhood best friend and try to help him, but not without opposition from Xander.
Willow helps Xander heal and manages to not completely lose herself in the process. Willow is an amazingly strong woman who has loved her best friend for as long as she can remember.
Download this book to see how their journey will end...you will absolutely not be disappointed.
May 28, 2017
4.5 Stars for an Amazing Debut!!!
"I need him to understand that I don’t see the damage when my gaze feasts on his glorious form. He could never be a monster to me, no matter what horrible poison fills his head."
Willow and Xander...best friends since forever, never told each other how they felt....Xander goes to war and comes back transformed. Insert this Authors beautifully written account of Willow's attempt to find the boy she loves underneath an enormous amount of pain and trauma. Filled with feels, high emotions, and a heart filled romantic journey for characters that you rooted for! This is a love of a life time and shouldn't be missed. Absolutely beautiful, I loved it! I thank the Author for providing a copy to review!
"Just know, even through all the pain and suffering, you were always with me as a reminder. On my darkest days, your memory was there to yank me back from the breaking point."
~~~Erika, Book Haven Book Blog
"I need him to understand that I don’t see the damage when my gaze feasts on his glorious form. He could never be a monster to me, no matter what horrible poison fills his head."
Willow and Xander...best friends since forever, never told each other how they felt....Xander goes to war and comes back transformed. Insert this Authors beautifully written account of Willow's attempt to find the boy she loves underneath an enormous amount of pain and trauma. Filled with feels, high emotions, and a heart filled romantic journey for characters that you rooted for! This is a love of a life time and shouldn't be missed. Absolutely beautiful, I loved it! I thank the Author for providing a copy to review!
"Just know, even through all the pain and suffering, you were always with me as a reminder. On my darkest days, your memory was there to yank me back from the breaking point."
~~~Erika, Book Haven Book Blog
December 13, 2017
I was not expecting the emotional journey this book put me through. It was so visceral, raw and real. To think men and women face demons like this everyday is heartbreaking. Xander and Willow had their childhood to connect them, a friendship that had taken shape since before the darkness came and took over Xander's life. Willow was so strong and compassionate, she just wanted him to feel whole again. Their fight to be with one another, their struggles and their pain had me in tears in some places. Redefining Us is a love story about the power of friendship, loyalty and love. Harloe Rae is a writer to watch, this girl is going places.
May 19, 2017
Cheese and rice! I totally fell in love with these characters! Harloe does an amazing job at making us connect to X and letting us know just how truly broken he is. I love the relationship between willow and X. They were best friends and in the end they finally found their way to each other. I am a sucker for happy endings! An amazing job for a debut book, and I can not wait to see what Harloe does next!!!
May 9, 2017
This is a 10 star book!! I was given an Arc to read and I'm so glad I got to read this book. I was drawn in from beginning to end. Willow and Xander are childhood best friends that share everything, well almost everything, but when Xander leaves and joins the service promising to keep in touch with his best friend, it doesn't happen. Three years go by and Willow hears nothing she believes she's lost him forever. When she finds out he's back she goes to see her best friend but he's not the Xander that left 3 years ago, he's lost in the depths of hell, darkness has taken him and she doesn't know if he will ever come back. Willow is strong and determined to help. This story was so touching that it made me cry, but I kept wanting more. The only bad thing about this book is it had to end. Harloe Rae this is an amazing story for your first book💕. I can't wait to read your next one.
May 30, 2017
Redefining Us is an emotional ride. I loved this book. Willow and Xander were such strong characters. I loved them so much. Willow has such a kind heart and she is there for Xander as he battles his demons.
If I could recommend one book this year, this would be it!
If I could recommend one book this year, this would be it!
July 13, 2017
Touching
I love reading books with real life problems. Xander is having severe problems after returning home from over seas. Willow helps him find himself again and I just loved them together. This book was great.
I love reading books with real life problems. Xander is having severe problems after returning home from over seas. Willow helps him find himself again and I just loved them together. This book was great.
May 25, 2017
Beautiful, heartbreaking and amazingly emotional. Redefining Us is the stunning debut novel from Harloe Rae. An incredible story of a broken man and the woman strong enough to love him. I voluntarily reviewed an ARC copy of this book.
May 26, 2017
This was a great debut! I loved it and could not put it down! Yes it is a friend's to lovers romance but it deals with demons and healing and so much more!The love Willow and Xander had was beautiful and how she helped him by just being there was amazing! I loved them! Can't wait to read more from Harloe!
kindle-freebies
March 16, 2020kindle freebie 3/16/20
https://www.amazon.com/Redefining-Us-...
https://www.amazon.com/Redefining-Us-...
Displaying 1 - 30 of 156 reviews