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A College Obsession Romance #3
With These Hands
He played my body like a piano with his strong, skillful hands. ~ DMITRI ~I want to put my hands all over her,but they're too busy writing my fantasy instead of living it.I'm so used to spinning love stories in my head that I've lost track of the one in my heart.I'm finished being a loveless prisoner to the page.Now I want the real thing - and I think she's it. ~ SAM ~He watches me with those dark, sensitive eyes of his, melting me.He knows my pain. Maybe he shares it.He brushes the hair out of my eyes with his fingers and it drives me insane.I think he's the music I've been looking for all along.The College Obsession Romance series centers around a group of friends and the relationships they form during their time at a small-town Texas school. They are angsty, steamy new adult novels with HEAs and NO cheating. Although they are obsession-themed romances, there are no stalkers or psychos!Though this is the third book in the College Obsession Romance series, it can be read as a standalone. For the most emotionally-satisfying experience, however, it is recommended to read this series in order, staring with "Read My Lips", followed by "Beneath The Skin", and then concluding in this novel.
334 pages, Kindle Edition
First published May 22, 2017
50 people are currently reading
339 people want to read
About the author
Daryl Banner
96 books1,992 followersDaryl Banner is a USA Today Bestselling author, composer, and performer. He graduated magna cum laude from the University of Houston Honors College with a degree in Theatre and Psychology. He is happily married to his piano. Theory suggests this is why he writes romance.
During Daryl Banner's time in college, he wrote, composed, and produced a musical under Tony Award-winning musical and Theatre producer Stuart Ostrow, as well as two original plays produced under the mentorship of Pulitzer Prize-winning playwright Lanford Wilson, who also mentored Daryl through the writing of his very first novel. In addition to new adult and M/M romance, Daryl also writes post-apocalyptic fantasy as well as dystopian.
Join his mailing list here to be the first to hear about his new releases! He awards an Amazon gift card every newsletter:
https://www.darylbanner.com/subscribe...
Follow him on Amazon:
https://www.amazon.com/author/darylba...
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Connect with fellow readers in Daryl's Doorway:
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Fun facts about Daryl Banner:
- He is an obsessive self-taught pianist.
- He is a huge video game enthusiast.
- He left his day job of 10 years to tour with a 2-woman-1-man original musical.
- He's been remixing video game music for over 20 years. One of his remixes is featured in the major motion picture "The Spy Who Dumped Me". Check out his work here: http://www.youtube.com/DarylBanner
- He composes original soundtracks that accompany his books and series, including The Beautiful Dead and OUTLIER. He is also the award-winning composer of the audio drama Janus Descending, as well as several films, games, podcasts, and other media. You can enjoy his music here: http://darylbanner.bandcamp.com
During Daryl Banner's time in college, he wrote, composed, and produced a musical under Tony Award-winning musical and Theatre producer Stuart Ostrow, as well as two original plays produced under the mentorship of Pulitzer Prize-winning playwright Lanford Wilson, who also mentored Daryl through the writing of his very first novel. In addition to new adult and M/M romance, Daryl also writes post-apocalyptic fantasy as well as dystopian.
Join his mailing list here to be the first to hear about his new releases! He awards an Amazon gift card every newsletter:
https://www.darylbanner.com/subscribe...
Follow him on Amazon:
https://www.amazon.com/author/darylba...
Like him on Facebook:
https://www.facebook.com/DarylBannerW...
Connect with fellow readers in Daryl's Doorway:
https://www.facebook.com/groups/Daryl...
Fun facts about Daryl Banner:
- He is an obsessive self-taught pianist.
- He is a huge video game enthusiast.
- He left his day job of 10 years to tour with a 2-woman-1-man original musical.
- He's been remixing video game music for over 20 years. One of his remixes is featured in the major motion picture "The Spy Who Dumped Me". Check out his work here: http://www.youtube.com/DarylBanner
- He composes original soundtracks that accompany his books and series, including The Beautiful Dead and OUTLIER. He is also the award-winning composer of the audio drama Janus Descending, as well as several films, games, podcasts, and other media. You can enjoy his music here: http://darylbanner.bandcamp.com
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 59 reviews
May 23, 2017
I’m seriously in love with Daryl Banner’s writing. He just knows how to bring the characters to life and make them real.
Sam was so adorably painfully awkward. Lol. She actually reminded me of me except I’m nothing but painfully awkward. There were times that I felt so bad for Sam that I had to put the book down for a moment and regroup. I’ve been there (hell, I’m STILL there)…and I just felt for her!
I loved Dmitri it’s as simple as that. I loved watching him grow, watching things circle back to Sam on more than one occasion. I loved their friendship and how they were able to pick things up like no time had passed. I was constantly rooting for them. I kind of wish that Sam hadn’t stayed with Tomas for so long. She totally deserved better (DMITRI!) and he was always around (and I don’t mean in a good way). As for Dmitri’s journey…I really hated Riley. I just did. I didn’t like how she treated him and how she reacted to finding out certain things about Dmitri. She was awful (and not Sam).
It was awesome to see Clayton & Dessi, Brant & Nell and see pieces of their stories through someone else’s experiences. I loved seeing the group of friends and how they all impacted Dmitri & Sam’s story.
I think one of the things I loved most was that this was a slow burn romance for Dmitri and Sam. They met when they were both freshmen but it took years for them to actually get together. They built a friendship first (with some bumps in the road) but they always “got” each other and they were always on the same wavelength. I have to say that one of my favorite scenes was a) when she invited him home with her (I totally loved the way she just blurted that out) and b) when she FINALLY played the piano for him.
I admit that I’m not a M/M reader. I just haven’t found the book to really get me into the genre. But after reading this book, I’m thinking Daryl is just the author to give it a shot with. This book does have some M/M scenes as well as a M/F/M scene.
This book was complete awesomesauce and I can’t recommend it enough!
May 23, 2017
Definitely my favorite book in this series! The biggest difference between this book and the other two, is that it spanned all 4 years of college at Klangburg, not just one.
I loved seeing the development of the relationship between Sam and Dmitri over the 4 year period. It went from college crush, to jumping all over each other, to pretending that it never happened while dating other people, to the couple's HEA. It is by far the most complex relationship throughout this series, but the most satisfying to read about.
Sam's character development throughout this book is astounding. She progresses from the "ugly" loner girl to a bolder woman who is loved by her small social circle. Sam is a strong character who worked hard and struggled to get through college, while never losing sight of herself.
Dmitri has also grown a lot throughout the years. He finds himself both in his writing style.as well as in his personal life. He goes from not quite knowing what he wanted in his relationship, to experimentation with different people, to finding his "one in a million".
I liked the fact that throughout the tale of Sam and Dmitri, the reader also gets a third party POV of the relationships of the two couples in the first two books, tying up some loose ends.
The epilogue gives the reader a glimpse into the lives of all 3 couples after graduation, showing the paths that each individual chose to go down.
All in all, this book made me laugh, cry and become angered at various points during this story. The. characters were so relatable, that is was very easy to share in their triumphs and defeats.
The storyline waa very well written keeping my attention to the very end. Very highly recommended!
I loved seeing the development of the relationship between Sam and Dmitri over the 4 year period. It went from college crush, to jumping all over each other, to pretending that it never happened while dating other people, to the couple's HEA. It is by far the most complex relationship throughout this series, but the most satisfying to read about.
Sam's character development throughout this book is astounding. She progresses from the "ugly" loner girl to a bolder woman who is loved by her small social circle. Sam is a strong character who worked hard and struggled to get through college, while never losing sight of herself.
Dmitri has also grown a lot throughout the years. He finds himself both in his writing style.as well as in his personal life. He goes from not quite knowing what he wanted in his relationship, to experimentation with different people, to finding his "one in a million".
I liked the fact that throughout the tale of Sam and Dmitri, the reader also gets a third party POV of the relationships of the two couples in the first two books, tying up some loose ends.
The epilogue gives the reader a glimpse into the lives of all 3 couples after graduation, showing the paths that each individual chose to go down.
All in all, this book made me laugh, cry and become angered at various points during this story. The. characters were so relatable, that is was very easy to share in their triumphs and defeats.
The storyline waa very well written keeping my attention to the very end. Very highly recommended!
May 29, 2017
The harmonic frequency of music and poetry...
Too odd and reclusive to click with the pretty girls and even more weird and uncertain to click with the rebels, Samantha tries to find meaning in her jumbled brain of who she is, what she wants and how to love... if she can ever learn to love and be loved in return. It only takes her but a moment to fall for ONE guy the second she sees him... then EVERYTHING changes within her. Knocking him over the head with a textbook is not exactly the most subtle way to attract someone's attention... but Sam is not your normal kind of girl. A Friends To Lovers Romance which tells the beautiful self discovery story of two college students, Sam and Dmitri, who are always on the same frequency... artistically and emotionally but waiting for the right moment to fully connect. 5 One In A Million stars for"With These Hands" music and poetry finally find harmony... together!
Too odd and reclusive to click with the pretty girls and even more weird and uncertain to click with the rebels, Samantha tries to find meaning in her jumbled brain of who she is, what she wants and how to love... if she can ever learn to love and be loved in return. It only takes her but a moment to fall for ONE guy the second she sees him... then EVERYTHING changes within her. Knocking him over the head with a textbook is not exactly the most subtle way to attract someone's attention... but Sam is not your normal kind of girl. A Friends To Lovers Romance which tells the beautiful self discovery story of two college students, Sam and Dmitri, who are always on the same frequency... artistically and emotionally but waiting for the right moment to fully connect. 5 One In A Million stars for"With These Hands" music and poetry finally find harmony... together!
May 22, 2017
Sam and Dmitri's story was such a struggle for them. Sam was the quintessential duckling to swan, thanks to her roommate/friend Dessie. Her introversion made it hard for her to open up. Dmitri was the right guy and they finally found their moment. There are a few other characters that need a story though. I don't think this series is really done.
May 20, 2017
I fell in love with Dmitri in Read my Lips and I have been waiting for his story to be told and it was well worth the wait. This was an amazing story of discovering and excepting who you are in the world for both Dmitri and Sam. I loved how Daryl broke the book up by years so that it was easy to follow. I loved this entire series but this one is my favorite!!
June 2, 2017
I loved the 1st 2 books but this one is just WOW!!!!!!
So many feels. Loved seeing their relationship change and evolve over the years. Watching them both grow and mature. What a great read...Well done Daryl!!!
So many feels. Loved seeing their relationship change and evolve over the years. Watching them both grow and mature. What a great read...Well done Daryl!!!
May 30, 2017
I really loved how this story was presented. It effectively showcased the highlights of Sam and Dmitri's concurrent lives, loves and friendships over the four years of their college experience as well as brought you along on their personal on again/off again journey with each other.
I loved the way that Sam helped Dmitri to discover the music within his own soul, while he helped her, in return, to read the poetry written on her heart. And this, ultimately, is what allowed them to blend the melodies of their separate lives to create a beautiful song that only made sense when those melodies were played in tandem. I also thought that it was very smart the way that Banner let the sexual tension between Sam and Dmitri continue to simmer, just under the surface, until the moment they finally came together with the climactic explosion of a cymbal crash.
I enjoyed this book so much more than ever I expected to. Although I had not read the two previous books in the series, I did not feel "left out of the loop" at all. (But, I do now plan to go back and read the other books.) I thought that the plot of the story was engaging and crafted at just the right pace. I thought that all of the characters had such depth, substance and vivacity. I laughed and cried and "felt" with these people, as if they were my own tangible friends.
I also have a sneaking suspicion that, if examined closely enough, it might just be revealed that each character has been infused with certain facets of the author, himself. Having never met Daryl, I almost feel as if I have been graciously entrusted with a glimpse of some of the notes that comprise the musical score of his own heart. And, for that gift, I say to him, "Thank you."
This story was a glorious symphony of words. Sometimes the characters were in harmony, and sometimes they were quite dissonant. But, regardless, the music of their hearts continued to ebb and flow up and down the scales of life, until the strains blended in perfect harmony punctuated by a joyous, resounding crescendo at the end.
*I received a complimentary ARC of this book in order to read and provide a voluntary, unbiased and honest review, should I choose to do so.
I loved the way that Sam helped Dmitri to discover the music within his own soul, while he helped her, in return, to read the poetry written on her heart. And this, ultimately, is what allowed them to blend the melodies of their separate lives to create a beautiful song that only made sense when those melodies were played in tandem. I also thought that it was very smart the way that Banner let the sexual tension between Sam and Dmitri continue to simmer, just under the surface, until the moment they finally came together with the climactic explosion of a cymbal crash.
I enjoyed this book so much more than ever I expected to. Although I had not read the two previous books in the series, I did not feel "left out of the loop" at all. (But, I do now plan to go back and read the other books.) I thought that the plot of the story was engaging and crafted at just the right pace. I thought that all of the characters had such depth, substance and vivacity. I laughed and cried and "felt" with these people, as if they were my own tangible friends.
I also have a sneaking suspicion that, if examined closely enough, it might just be revealed that each character has been infused with certain facets of the author, himself. Having never met Daryl, I almost feel as if I have been graciously entrusted with a glimpse of some of the notes that comprise the musical score of his own heart. And, for that gift, I say to him, "Thank you."
This story was a glorious symphony of words. Sometimes the characters were in harmony, and sometimes they were quite dissonant. But, regardless, the music of their hearts continued to ebb and flow up and down the scales of life, until the strains blended in perfect harmony punctuated by a joyous, resounding crescendo at the end.
*I received a complimentary ARC of this book in order to read and provide a voluntary, unbiased and honest review, should I choose to do so.
May 14, 2017
Wow...what a long and exciting and beautiful journey this third and final book has been...and now that I have finished it, I am smiling and happy with the end results.
Unlike Read My Lips which tackled sophomore year in the School of Theatre, and Beneath The Skin which was junior year and the School of Art, With These Hands covers all four years and takes place primarily within the Schools of Music and Creative Writing.
Secrets are revealed and events which took place during the previous two books, that we as readers were not yet aware of, come to light and the lives of all of our favorite characters from all of the books take some interesting and sometimes, shocking turns.
This story was full of romance, longing, exploration and family drama...youthful fantasy that turns into more grown-up reality. I loved getting to know the real Sam and Dmitri...as well as Eric and all of their significant (and less important) others.
Although you technically "can" read this book on its own, I very highly recommend that you read the first two in order...there are several hidden "Easter Eggs" and things which will make you smile or laugh if you are aware of the history and previous events from the other books in the series.
Wonderful and fulfilling completion of the trilogy with the possibility of some future stories from these beloved characters.
***** 5 ***** "with these hands you can create anything" stars
Unlike Read My Lips which tackled sophomore year in the School of Theatre, and Beneath The Skin which was junior year and the School of Art, With These Hands covers all four years and takes place primarily within the Schools of Music and Creative Writing.
Secrets are revealed and events which took place during the previous two books, that we as readers were not yet aware of, come to light and the lives of all of our favorite characters from all of the books take some interesting and sometimes, shocking turns.
This story was full of romance, longing, exploration and family drama...youthful fantasy that turns into more grown-up reality. I loved getting to know the real Sam and Dmitri...as well as Eric and all of their significant (and less important) others.
Although you technically "can" read this book on its own, I very highly recommend that you read the first two in order...there are several hidden "Easter Eggs" and things which will make you smile or laugh if you are aware of the history and previous events from the other books in the series.
Wonderful and fulfilling completion of the trilogy with the possibility of some future stories from these beloved characters.
***** 5 ***** "with these hands you can create anything" stars
May 21, 2017
With These Hands, we get the story of Sam and Dimitri. Unlike Dessie and Clayton (Read My Lips) and Brant and Nell (Beneath The Skin) where thier story is basically scool year, we find that Sam and Dimitri have had a "thing" since freshman year but don't get it together until the last semester of senior year. The in between time consited of awkward run-ins and them being with other people. I beleive this is a story of fate but fate has it's own timeline and maybe you have to "traverse the jungle before you can see the beach". Sam and Dimitri had a hell of a jungle in thier future but found each other.
I found myself cheering them both on their journey but was finally elated when they truly came together and outed their relationship with all of their family and friends. I was a blubbering mess at the end where all of the couples are summed up, as I feel like all of the characters are people I know. I also noticed your mom's part in the story. I requested an advance copy (because really, I had to read this book and couldn't wait any longer than necessary) for my thoughts. Daryl, you "nailed" this one! Much love you and your creative genius-ness.
"Each sound in the world - whether it be the sting of a violin, or the tweeting of birds, or even the gentle hum of a car engine - consists of a series of overtones, and when those overtones align proprly, it causes a sense of harmony in our ears. It'something we cannot control."
I found myself cheering them both on their journey but was finally elated when they truly came together and outed their relationship with all of their family and friends. I was a blubbering mess at the end where all of the couples are summed up, as I feel like all of the characters are people I know. I also noticed your mom's part in the story. I requested an advance copy (because really, I had to read this book and couldn't wait any longer than necessary) for my thoughts. Daryl, you "nailed" this one! Much love you and your creative genius-ness.
"Each sound in the world - whether it be the sting of a violin, or the tweeting of birds, or even the gentle hum of a car engine - consists of a series of overtones, and when those overtones align proprly, it causes a sense of harmony in our ears. It'something we cannot control."
May 23, 2017
Terrific conclusion to Banner's College Obsession series! Sam and Dmitri have been secondary figures in the first two books of this series and now their story gets told in With These Hands. (Each novel can be read as a standalone.) Also, please don't be put off by "obsession" in the series name. These books are about college students in various arts programs (theater, sculpture, music, etc.). They feel passionately and occasionally act erratically, but they aren't obsessed in the sense of criminal stalking or 24/7 preoccupation.
Sam (Samantha) is a music student, an innately talented composer who has spent her whole life feeling invisible and often being invisible. Dmitri is a creative writing student who likes to write about the dark side of human nature, but still tends to see the best in the people around him.
Daryl Banner is a poet when it comes to writing emotion and building his perfectly imperfect characters. The author's own musical gifts are apparent as he weaves both the science and the art of composition into characters who have music in common and letting it show how they are different. Banner connects me to the people in his stories with their truth and depth. It's been a long time since I was in college, but I'm instantly back there as Sam and Dmitri's feelings and reactions resonate with me.
Absolutely recommend this book.
Sam (Samantha) is a music student, an innately talented composer who has spent her whole life feeling invisible and often being invisible. Dmitri is a creative writing student who likes to write about the dark side of human nature, but still tends to see the best in the people around him.
Daryl Banner is a poet when it comes to writing emotion and building his perfectly imperfect characters. The author's own musical gifts are apparent as he weaves both the science and the art of composition into characters who have music in common and letting it show how they are different. Banner connects me to the people in his stories with their truth and depth. It's been a long time since I was in college, but I'm instantly back there as Sam and Dmitri's feelings and reactions resonate with me.
Absolutely recommend this book.
May 29, 2017
With these hands is the third in Daryl Banner’s College Obsession Romance Series however it is a standalone. I haven’t (yet) read ‘Read My Lips’ or ‘Beneath the Skin’ and I don’t feel that I lost anything from this story, except I now know how those stories ends before I’ve read them, but read them I will.
This is the story of Samantha (Sam) Hart and Dmitri Katz who meet in their first year of college at Klangburg University. Sam is a music major and Dmitri, a creative writing major.
In their first class (poetry), on their first day, from the moment she heard the voice she describes as “a voice as smooth as silk” Sam’s obsession with Dmitri began. Their humourous meeting in that poetry class a few weeks later begins their somewhat tumultuous journey spanning their four years of college.
Sam was awkward and anxious, had little self-confidence and thought of herself as ugly and unnoticeable, but with the help of her roommate, friends and Dmitri she grew into a confident, beautiful self-assured young woman. Dmitri doesn’t have many friends, until he meets Sam and although there are many hurdles, they build a solid friendship which develops into romance throughout the book.
It is a sign of a good writer when you are so frustrated with the characters and want them to just see what is in front of them and there were times when I wanted to shake some sense into Sam and Dmitri, but that’s all I can say without giving away spoilers.
This book has everything, humour, frustration, self-discovery, drama, friendships, love, and some HOT MM, MFM and MF scenes.
I thoroughly enjoyed this gem from Daryl Banner, highly recommended.
This is the story of Samantha (Sam) Hart and Dmitri Katz who meet in their first year of college at Klangburg University. Sam is a music major and Dmitri, a creative writing major.
In their first class (poetry), on their first day, from the moment she heard the voice she describes as “a voice as smooth as silk” Sam’s obsession with Dmitri began. Their humourous meeting in that poetry class a few weeks later begins their somewhat tumultuous journey spanning their four years of college.
Sam was awkward and anxious, had little self-confidence and thought of herself as ugly and unnoticeable, but with the help of her roommate, friends and Dmitri she grew into a confident, beautiful self-assured young woman. Dmitri doesn’t have many friends, until he meets Sam and although there are many hurdles, they build a solid friendship which develops into romance throughout the book.
It is a sign of a good writer when you are so frustrated with the characters and want them to just see what is in front of them and there were times when I wanted to shake some sense into Sam and Dmitri, but that’s all I can say without giving away spoilers.
This book has everything, humour, frustration, self-discovery, drama, friendships, love, and some HOT MM, MFM and MF scenes.
I thoroughly enjoyed this gem from Daryl Banner, highly recommended.
May 30, 2017
OMFG!!! Talk about getting 'the feels' when you read a book... WOW i have just spent the last few years attending college in Texas!!!
I must state first off... that this series has been one of my favourites ever!!! Mr Banner has so much talent with his writing that you feel every single emotion through the pages as if the characters are actually part of the real world and you are standing next to them and are able to physically touch them!!!
This book is slightly different as it is written in three separate time slots... but it also coincides with the first two books in the series and yes... the whole group are here!!!
I refuse to give spoilers which is so difficult when the book brings out so much... everything... i will just... with my hand on my heart recommend... EVERYONE NEEDS TO READ THIS BOOK!!! You do NOT want to miss out on the journey that Dimtri and Sam... both together and as individuals experience!!!
As i read through this book... at points i was in tears (yes a box of tissues at hand is required) and then at other points i wanted to shake them and scream for them to open their eyes!!! Of course there where the parts when you swallow hard and pant whilst fanning your face trying to catch your breath (you know the ones i mean!) and this book has pulled them altogether to bring the readers a massive 5 star read!!!
I can't wait to discover what Daryl has planned next... one thing i can guarantee though... it will be off the charts explosive!!!
I must state first off... that this series has been one of my favourites ever!!! Mr Banner has so much talent with his writing that you feel every single emotion through the pages as if the characters are actually part of the real world and you are standing next to them and are able to physically touch them!!!
This book is slightly different as it is written in three separate time slots... but it also coincides with the first two books in the series and yes... the whole group are here!!!
I refuse to give spoilers which is so difficult when the book brings out so much... everything... i will just... with my hand on my heart recommend... EVERYONE NEEDS TO READ THIS BOOK!!! You do NOT want to miss out on the journey that Dimtri and Sam... both together and as individuals experience!!!
As i read through this book... at points i was in tears (yes a box of tissues at hand is required) and then at other points i wanted to shake them and scream for them to open their eyes!!! Of course there where the parts when you swallow hard and pant whilst fanning your face trying to catch your breath (you know the ones i mean!) and this book has pulled them altogether to bring the readers a massive 5 star read!!!
I can't wait to discover what Daryl has planned next... one thing i can guarantee though... it will be off the charts explosive!!!
May 23, 2017
"Not every love story is a straight line. Some of them are interrupted. Some of them are tied in knots. Some of them run parallel to each other. And in the end, every musical chord finds a way to resolve itself."
This is the third and final book of Daryl Banner's "College Obsession Romance " series...and I'm definitely OBSESSED. I started this book as if SA since Daryl Banner does mainly have prequel, book 1 and 2 and then sequel all within this book, but I will surely go back to prior books to read, only to get more of these incredible characters that Daryl banner has brought to life.
This story primarily follows Sam and Dmitri through their four years of college. We do see all fellow classmates within the book too that help make this story so well rounded that you feel like a fellow roommate/classmate too. I love the analogies throughout the story too... The descriptions are so wonderful to make the reader feel and experience what is being thought by the characters. And the passion in the writing as well as seeing the passion both Dmitri and Sam have for their majors is just so realistic, as well as the underlying musical theme just bring this book to life! And don't forget the passion as well as sexual tension that runs throughout the campus.
I previously fell in love with Daryl banner in his Football Sundae but I now definitely have a new favorite.
"Is that what we’ve always been, Dmitri and I? Two people waiting for the right moment?"... Will Dmitri and Sam find their right moment.
This is the third and final book of Daryl Banner's "College Obsession Romance " series...and I'm definitely OBSESSED. I started this book as if SA since Daryl Banner does mainly have prequel, book 1 and 2 and then sequel all within this book, but I will surely go back to prior books to read, only to get more of these incredible characters that Daryl banner has brought to life.
This story primarily follows Sam and Dmitri through their four years of college. We do see all fellow classmates within the book too that help make this story so well rounded that you feel like a fellow roommate/classmate too. I love the analogies throughout the story too... The descriptions are so wonderful to make the reader feel and experience what is being thought by the characters. And the passion in the writing as well as seeing the passion both Dmitri and Sam have for their majors is just so realistic, as well as the underlying musical theme just bring this book to life! And don't forget the passion as well as sexual tension that runs throughout the campus.
I previously fell in love with Daryl banner in his Football Sundae but I now definitely have a new favorite.
"Is that what we’ve always been, Dmitri and I? Two people waiting for the right moment?"... Will Dmitri and Sam find their right moment.
May 24, 2017
I love this series and this story is the perfect reintroduction to our friends. I do strongly recommend reading the prior stories in the proper sequence as it will add so much to the story.
This is the story about seeing, really seeing someone. The story begins during freshman year of Samantha; music geek, shy girl with big glasses and hair that hides her face. Like any good romance, the characters meet early in the story and develop feelings of a sort before encountering obstacles on the way to the anticipated satisfactory resolution.
Samantha who now wants to be called Sam, is used to not fitting in and the chance of her fitting into the sorority lifestyle is nonexistant...but Sam has many surprises in this story that add to her college career including divided loyalties.
It all begins during her creative writing class when Sam hears a student with a "voice as smooth as silk" in the manner of her introduction to Dimitri, "the one who changes everything".
Avoiding spoiler, I will just say that nothing is easy, the relationship between Sam and Dimitri is like a the lifecycle of a caterpillar that grows and seemingly dies before emerging into beauty.
An entirely enjoyable story, once again from this author.
This is the story about seeing, really seeing someone. The story begins during freshman year of Samantha; music geek, shy girl with big glasses and hair that hides her face. Like any good romance, the characters meet early in the story and develop feelings of a sort before encountering obstacles on the way to the anticipated satisfactory resolution.
Samantha who now wants to be called Sam, is used to not fitting in and the chance of her fitting into the sorority lifestyle is nonexistant...but Sam has many surprises in this story that add to her college career including divided loyalties.
It all begins during her creative writing class when Sam hears a student with a "voice as smooth as silk" in the manner of her introduction to Dimitri, "the one who changes everything".
Avoiding spoiler, I will just say that nothing is easy, the relationship between Sam and Dimitri is like a the lifecycle of a caterpillar that grows and seemingly dies before emerging into beauty.
An entirely enjoyable story, once again from this author.
May 24, 2017
I'm thrilled with Mr. Banner continuing this series. It's the third installment in the College Obsession series and I want more!! This is a second chance love story between Dimitri and Samantha. The author captured The progression and growth within the characters over the entire college span (4 years).
Sam's character developed the most out of all of his characters in this book. She is so painfully awkward and shy at the beginning the story and then she blossoms into a confident young woman by the end. She thinks she's ugly by today's standards with her thick rimmed glasses and her few outfits that by no means are trendy. Then she is late to her first class and has to sit in the center of the front of the room and she spots a cute boy with thick black rimmed glasses. He has an air of confidence that surrounds him.
Dimitri just wants to be a writer. His writing style tends to be more dark than your average student. He first encounter Sam when she smacks him in the head and requests to be his partner in the poetry project they have.
I wish I could say the rest is history but they go on and adventure with their relationship. They have some ups and downs, both dating other people over their college lives. Will they find their way back together in a romantic relationship again or just remain friends?
** I voluntarily read an ARC of this book in exchange for an honest review **
Sam's character developed the most out of all of his characters in this book. She is so painfully awkward and shy at the beginning the story and then she blossoms into a confident young woman by the end. She thinks she's ugly by today's standards with her thick rimmed glasses and her few outfits that by no means are trendy. Then she is late to her first class and has to sit in the center of the front of the room and she spots a cute boy with thick black rimmed glasses. He has an air of confidence that surrounds him.
Dimitri just wants to be a writer. His writing style tends to be more dark than your average student. He first encounter Sam when she smacks him in the head and requests to be his partner in the poetry project they have.
I wish I could say the rest is history but they go on and adventure with their relationship. They have some ups and downs, both dating other people over their college lives. Will they find their way back together in a romantic relationship again or just remain friends?
** I voluntarily read an ARC of this book in exchange for an honest review **
May 27, 2017
Thank you to the author for an ARC of this story. These are only my thoughts on the story and no payment was received.
After reading Read My Lips I wanted more Dmitri, So I was so excited to read this book.
What I loved most about this book was getting to know more about Dmitri and to learn the layers of him. He is so complex and I loved it. I loved getting to know Sam more as well. This book covers a 4 year span so we get a lot of story. At times I was confused about who was with who because there was so much going on. But I loved it. The ending was awesome! It was do to the ending that I gave it 5 stars, I was leaning toward 4 but the author ended this book perfect. I will say that I hope there is more this series because I want know where life takes these two characters. I am not ready to say goodbye.
After reading Read My Lips I wanted more Dmitri, So I was so excited to read this book.
What I loved most about this book was getting to know more about Dmitri and to learn the layers of him. He is so complex and I loved it. I loved getting to know Sam more as well. This book covers a 4 year span so we get a lot of story. At times I was confused about who was with who because there was so much going on. But I loved it. The ending was awesome! It was do to the ending that I gave it 5 stars, I was leaning toward 4 but the author ended this book perfect. I will say that I hope there is more this series because I want know where life takes these two characters. I am not ready to say goodbye.
May 23, 2017
My favorite of the College Obsession Series. "With These Hands" follows our group of characters through all 4 years at Klangburg University. They meet,relationships build and change as the characters themselves evolve. This book focused on Sam and Dmitri, secondary characters in the other books. I loved seeing their relationship develop over the years. Some relationships truly don't follow a straight line but take a wandering path with roadblocks in the way. At the end everything comes together and they find out,deep down , what they knew from the beginning.
May 22, 2017
Outstanding job by Daryl on this one. This wasn't a pretty little romance where everything ties together in a pretty little bow. There was heartache and confusion and LIFE! Sam and Dmitri had to go through many things to find out who they were before they could be them. What a journey it was. And Sam is freaking funny as hell. I swear I was laughing so hard in just the first chapter. It was good to go back and see Dessie and Clayton and Brant and Nell again too. If you haven't read their stories I must insist that you do. Daryl does amazing work with words and each of their stories has been wonderful. A definite must read.
Just FYI, there's some MM and some MMF in this one.
Just FYI, there's some MM and some MMF in this one.
May 26, 2017
I was given an advanced copy in exchange for my honest review. Omg I loved this book from the beginning. Dimitri was absolutely loveable. I loved him from the beginning in Read My Lips. I loved how I got to read in a break down of the college years. I really enjoyed how while reading it was like I was discovering myself and have expected who I am just like Dimitri and Sam did. Daryl Banner you did again. Another AMAZING story. I love the whole series but I'm torn between this book and Read my Lips as to which in the series I love best. I do know that you're ABSOLUTELY AMAZING.
May 22, 2017
I received an arc of this book for nothing in exchange. This review is all my opinions.
I loved this book. I have been anticipating this one since I read the first in the series. I loved getting to know Dmitri better. He is such a complex guy. I love how this book covers a long time span so you get the whole story and a much deeper one. I have to say the ending of this book is one of my favorite endings that I have read in a while.
I love the cover of this book!!!!!!!
I loved this book. I have been anticipating this one since I read the first in the series. I loved getting to know Dmitri better. He is such a complex guy. I love how this book covers a long time span so you get the whole story and a much deeper one. I have to say the ending of this book is one of my favorite endings that I have read in a while.
I love the cover of this book!!!!!!!
May 25, 2017
5.0 out of 5 stars
Such an amazing journey!!
This book was so good. I absolutely loved this series, its so well written and makes you feel. Takes you back to school and the fun and awkwardness of it all. I'm told it can be read as a standalone but you want to read them all. There are so many scenes that intertwine within the three books. It was brilliant how he took us back to some of those exact scenes and got another perspective of it all. The character development is so worth the journey. I'm so happy that Dmitri got a story and how these two come together over the span of four years. If there was ever a meant to be couple its Sam And Dmitri. I will not put any spoilers of how complex this relationship is, you just NEED to read for yourselves
Such an amazing journey!!
This book was so good. I absolutely loved this series, its so well written and makes you feel. Takes you back to school and the fun and awkwardness of it all. I'm told it can be read as a standalone but you want to read them all. There are so many scenes that intertwine within the three books. It was brilliant how he took us back to some of those exact scenes and got another perspective of it all. The character development is so worth the journey. I'm so happy that Dmitri got a story and how these two come together over the span of four years. If there was ever a meant to be couple its Sam And Dmitri. I will not put any spoilers of how complex this relationship is, you just NEED to read for yourselves
May 30, 2017
Great book
With these hands was such a great book,I love that we got to look at all four years. A little back story before the love story if you will. Sam and Dimitri's story was so well-written it was like I was there living it with them I could just close my eyes and see them and hear their thoughts. This book shows you a love story how it is in real life. Every marriage, love, boyfriend girlfriend, love triangle, whatever you are in, they all have conflict. They fight, yell and scream, say things they wish they didn't, but all ok in the end. Because if they are your soulmate, your other half, eventually you will come back together, and those two halves will make you whole.
That is what I took away from this book. This is a must read, as is the rest of the series.
With these hands was such a great book,I love that we got to look at all four years. A little back story before the love story if you will. Sam and Dimitri's story was so well-written it was like I was there living it with them I could just close my eyes and see them and hear their thoughts. This book shows you a love story how it is in real life. Every marriage, love, boyfriend girlfriend, love triangle, whatever you are in, they all have conflict. They fight, yell and scream, say things they wish they didn't, but all ok in the end. Because if they are your soulmate, your other half, eventually you will come back together, and those two halves will make you whole.
That is what I took away from this book. This is a must read, as is the rest of the series.
May 24, 2017
I am late to the world of Daryl's college obsession romances as this is my first one. It works perfectly well as a stand alone novel and for that I am grateful. Now that I am finished and I know I can dive deeper into some of the stories of the other characters, I am that much more excited for their secrets to reveal themselves.
Daryl does a wonderful job bringing the stories of Dmitri and Sam to life. We learn who they are, their internal struggles and get to tag along on their journeys of self discovery. We see how our interactions can form lasting relationships, even when the path to get there isn't a straight one.
I really enjoy Daryl's style of writing and cannot wait to read more from him! If you haven't read any yet, you too can start your enrollment at Klangburg University today with this novel!
Daryl does a wonderful job bringing the stories of Dmitri and Sam to life. We learn who they are, their internal struggles and get to tag along on their journeys of self discovery. We see how our interactions can form lasting relationships, even when the path to get there isn't a straight one.
I really enjoy Daryl's style of writing and cannot wait to read more from him! If you haven't read any yet, you too can start your enrollment at Klangburg University today with this novel!
May 23, 2017
The feels in this book!! Daryl just have a way to capture my heart and soul and he did it again with this last book in the series. I loved the journey we took with Dmitri and Sam and their friends. I could not put it down and can highly recommend this book.
I received an ARC for my honest opinion
I received an ARC for my honest opinion
May 24, 2017
My thoughts on Daryl's book With these hands. Without giving any spoilers out. I honestly can say that I really enjoyed this book alot. I loved watching all the characters evolve over their college years & come into their own. The way Daryl has written this book depicted real life with fictional characters that have had real emotions, problems & ups & downs that life throws all our ways at some point. This book definitely is worth reading you'll laugh, you'll tear up & you'll definitely sigh as you continue seeing the characters come into their own. You will also see different types of love as well. You won't be disappointed with this book, so give it a read & make sure you also leave your review as well.
May 25, 2017
"You move, build, and destroy worlds with these hands."
This is what Samantha Hart's dad tells her. To give her confidence, that she can do good and bad things with her hands.
Samantha is a pianist, and we meet her on the first day if her freshman year of college. In her poetry class, she becomes enamored with Dmitri Katz, who is a writer. We become witness to their relationship throughout their four years of college.
There are many ups and downs, as anyone who has been in love will attest to. This story encompasses all of the emotions that you experience with first loves. That is what makes this story so good.
This is what Samantha Hart's dad tells her. To give her confidence, that she can do good and bad things with her hands.
Samantha is a pianist, and we meet her on the first day if her freshman year of college. In her poetry class, she becomes enamored with Dmitri Katz, who is a writer. We become witness to their relationship throughout their four years of college.
There are many ups and downs, as anyone who has been in love will attest to. This story encompasses all of the emotions that you experience with first loves. That is what makes this story so good.
May 27, 2017
By far my favorite book in the series. I loved following their story throughout their entire college term. I don't want to give any spoilers but there were so many parts of this book that just hit me so hard. The piano scene in particular was so beautifully written that it was like I could hear and feel the music right along with them. I loved the extra insight into the lives of the returning characters. I do hope that one day the characters return down the road. I would love to catch up with them.
May 29, 2017
I have to say Daryl Banner has done a fantastic job on developing the characters as he takes us on a journey for four years.
Dimitri has a lot to grow up has he finds his way in college and doesn't really know if he should be with anyone person. as Sam finds her way through her music and finds love in the process as she learns what it is she wants out of life.
I was able to see myself in both of these characters as I went to college. there are so many things you learn in life that is makes this book so special to read. I would recommend this book to everyone. It is fast pace reading and very enjoyable to read that you see other people doing these things as you remember back to your own college days.
Dimitri has a lot to grow up has he finds his way in college and doesn't really know if he should be with anyone person. as Sam finds her way through her music and finds love in the process as she learns what it is she wants out of life.
I was able to see myself in both of these characters as I went to college. there are so many things you learn in life that is makes this book so special to read. I would recommend this book to everyone. It is fast pace reading and very enjoyable to read that you see other people doing these things as you remember back to your own college days.
May 30, 2017
I have read the first two standalone novels under the the A College Obsession series and I was so happy that finally Dmitri and Sam have their own story. Their romance was a slow burn, but I was drawn to the depth of their characterization that I felt that as a reader I was with them in all the major stages of their College lives. I love Daryl Banner's writing in this particular series. It's raw, real and relatable, emotion and thought-provoking, sensitive and sensual at the same time.
I highly recommend this series. And this book was quite a fantastic journey which left a smile on my face after I finished reading it ! A definite five-star read!
I have read an advanced copy of this book and this is a fair and honest review and recommendation voluntarily shared.
I highly recommend this series. And this book was quite a fantastic journey which left a smile on my face after I finished reading it ! A definite five-star read!
I have read an advanced copy of this book and this is a fair and honest review and recommendation voluntarily shared.
May 25, 2017
I stayed up so freaking late to finish With These Hands. That was the best of the 3 books in the series. I wanna say so much, but I don't want to spoil the story. Just... Omg... it's was so freaking good!! Lol these are sorta my reactions as I read through it.
🙂🤔😕😬😮😀😍😲😍😭😭😭😍😍😍🙌
I loved how this book spanned their 4 years of college and their individual journies as they grew up. Presenting the book this way just really packs a punch and it really got to me. I sobbed during a scene that should really have made me feel something entirely different. It was because of that build up over time that made my emotions just bubble over. I can't say enough about this book and the entire series.
🙂🤔😕😬😮😀😍😲😍😭😭😭😍😍😍🙌
I loved how this book spanned their 4 years of college and their individual journies as they grew up. Presenting the book this way just really packs a punch and it really got to me. I sobbed during a scene that should really have made me feel something entirely different. It was because of that build up over time that made my emotions just bubble over. I can't say enough about this book and the entire series.
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