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Island Duet #1

Redemption Island

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“I want you to tame me,” he hummed. “But you make me wild instead.”

Juliet took revenge. The result landed her in a social experiment of solitary reflection called The Island. She didn’t mind the solitude in this tropical paradise until she learned she wasn’t alone. One of them was there with her and this changed everything.

Tack commited a crime - almost. By association, his bad decision cost him the experimental banishment. He thought he’d treat the time away like a much needed vacation until he noticed he wasn’t by himself. She was here - the woman who derailed his life - and that made all the difference.

Can two tortured souls find their way to redemption through the one person they need forgiveness from the most?

This bold beginning to the Island duet is L.B. Dunbar’s detour into dark romance. If you like thought-provoking circumstances, intriguing situations, and something stunningly different in romantic suspense, then this redemptive romance of enemies to lovers is for you.

Welcome to the Island.

260 pages, Paperback

Published September 15, 2017

151 people are currently reading
637 people want to read

About the author

L.B. Dunbar

90 books3,267 followers
L.B. Dunbar loves sexy silver foxes, second chances, and small towns. If you enjoy older characters in your romance reads, including a hero with a little silver in his scruff and a heroine rediscovering her worth, then welcome to romance for those over 40. L.B. Dunbar’s signature works include women and men in their prime taking another turn at love and happily ever after. She’s a USA TODAY Bestseller as well as #1 Bestseller on Amazon in Later in Life Romance with her Sterling Falls, Lakeside Cottage, and Road Trips & Romance series. L.B. lives in Chicago with her own sexy silver fox.

To get all the scoop about the self-proclaimed queen of silver fox romance, join her on Facebook at Loving L.B. or receive her weekly newsletter, Love Notes.

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Displaying 1 - 30 of 191 reviews
Profile Image for ❥ KAT ❥ Kitty Kats Crazy About Books.
2,620 reviews10.9k followers
September 12, 2017
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Wanting a unique read then look no further than this book, get transported onto a magical island where all inhibitions and outside influences are left at the door. Redemption Island is a story that will speak to you, capture you, embrace you. It's about forgiveness, love, and atonement.

I solely requested an arc copy of this due to the cover, then the synopsis pulled me in even further, and I knew going into this and sneaking peeks at reviews that it was going to offer me one unputdownable unique filled read and that is exactly what I got. I can't even compare this to anything I've previously read before.

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REDEMPTION ISAND: is the first book within the Island duet trio by L.B. Dunbar. And is spoken in 'Dual Perspectives'

He's used to living a life of opulence, everything he wants he takes, she's the girl from the wrong side of the tracks, who knows what it's like to live in a trailer park. Both know how to survive.

Twenty-seven year old Tack Corbin and twenty-five year old Juliet Montmore have been whisked to 'Redemption Island' for various reasons, Tack was found guilty of a heinous crime, a good decent man who made one wrong decision, but instead of serving time in jail he's been offered a reprieve of some sorts, to save face and his family's good reputation he's to be banished to Redemption Island to partake in a social experiment, where he must live in solitary confinement for one year, a time to reflect on the crime he committed.

Juliet never asked to be a victim, she was abused without her consent, a crime committed against her, afterwards she was just a shell of herself, without thought she took matters into her own hands which resulted in taking a mans life, so she has also been banished to the island to repent on her sin for one year.

Both thought a year on the island would be heavenly.

Neither knows the other is there.

When paths are crossed and recognising the other from that fateful night neither know what to make of it. She hates him with every fibre, he's sorry for his part he played that night.

She was a little mouse and I was a lion ready to pounce.

Even though she hated him she couldn't deny his good looks He was gorgeous, cut from clay and moulded to perfection.

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REDEMPTION ISLAND fights against it's two inhabitants and now more than ever they have to lean on each other.
Profile Image for Olga therebelreader.
894 reviews767 followers
September 2, 2017
Redemption Island P1 was a really unique, heartwarming, dark story. It had a unique premise, great main characters, a nice romance, and a great message. There were just so many things I loved about this; a survival story, a twisted romance, action, suspense, heartbreak.

The summary? It peaked my interest a little. Juliet and Tack have committed a crime. Seeking salvation and redemption, they decide to isolate themselves on an island away from the people of the world. The one isn’t aware of the presence of the other until they accidentally discover each other.

The author did an excellent job of showing how tough life would be when thrown to the elements. Neither of them could foresee what the days ahead promised: an odyssey into the fiery heart of passion, trust, need for submission, love and sometimes hate. Juliet and Tack were a wonderful couple. I enjoyed their banter and their eventual chemistry.

Giving this one: 4 solid stars.


In short:
Hero 4/5 | Heroine 4/5 | Plot (Point, Originality) 4/5 | Writing Style 4/5 | Steam 4/5 | Romance 4/5 | Angst-Suspense 3/5 | Darkness 3/5 | Humor 0/5 | Secondary Characters 3/5 | Drama-Conflict 4/5 | Mystery 1/5 | Twists 3/5 | Pacing Steady | Action 4/5


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Profile Image for Shabby  -BookBistroBlog.
1,934 reviews986 followers
August 28, 2017
Wow!! What a story !. It's a journey of self discovery, removal of distractions to hear your soul. Ethereally visceral, contemplative and spiritual to an extent
It doesn't hit you hard like a sudden storm, yet it builds in strength. The cadence as gentle  as soft swells of the sea, it starts by skimming on the surface of blue sea like dolphins , but  soon , its the only thing you can see. Endless expanse .
description
An unfortunate and horrible crime has been committed. Yet the victim and the perpetrator  find themselves together on the Redemption Island.
The mission-
Experiment, she thought. She allowed herself to be part of the scientific process, and she felt played when she swore she’d never be taken advantage of again.
Repent. The word drifted through her head. Without him, she wouldn’t have been on this island. Without him, she wouldn’t have found herself again. She offered forgiveness in exchange for love.
He took what he intended before they knew one another and then she give it to him willingly. Because he asked. He wanted permission and she agreed—love him and be free.
You make me wild, he said, when all she wanted was to be cared for, cared about. She wanted to be claimed.
Restore the liaison had said, but she’d never felt so broken.


description

For both of them, cause Terrence Jackson Corbin IV & Juliet Montmore are both somehow are criminals in a way. One didn't speak out, one didn't speak enough. They are both completely broken,  mistrusting and reticent. Very unlikely neighbours and dangerous in personalities, but stranger things have happened. They find each other and themselves to try and get past the horrific ordeal  and the stigma attached.
But man proposes and God disposes. Unfortunate nature of events tear their lives apart. Once again they drift away from each other. Very, very far......
description
Tbh, when I started reading it, though the words spellbound me, I was hesitant, thinking it's another cookie cutter romance.
Boy ! Was I wrong. The story has a gentle pace but it's seeps into your soul, like a chill or warmth. Right through to your bones . The background of the mishap isn't very clear , but the focus is mostly on now and here . How they share nights, days, food, companionship, and ultimately trust. The human heart learns to apologise and forgive despite its logic and morality.
I particularly loved how Garvey says - Dance. “You need to become one with nature. Pick an animal. Reenact its behavior and reflect on what you can learn from it.”
Though Tack dismisses at first, he subconsciously find his "Mouse " and he learns to dance like her, with her,  and in turn finds himself. His new role of protector and nurturer. It surprises him as much it does Juliet. He's her rediscovered Romeo, in the sense that he woos her, stands under her balcony(treehouse) and she bestows him with her rarest smile, trust and her heart.
I'm amazed at the writers ability to write such an unusual story with such finesse , such tenderness.
They help each other in getting in touch with their innate goodness and inner humility

“I can be a bad man when I go into business mode. I tend to dominate until I get what I want. I want what I want, and that means taking companies, making them mine, and stripping them of what I need. My father always believed in survival of the fittest.
“Have you ever considered doing something different? Building something up instead of tearing those companies down? Making something that’s for the good of others?”


Most amazing transformation of characters, right in front of your eyes.
I loved the feels that gush forth. The right word would be engulfing! The story engulfs you like a mist on the ocean and you shall find strength of the human spirit here, yet reminds you of basic life lessons- If you commit a crime, you must make things whole again. If you killed a dog, you might need to adopt a puppy or work at an animal shelter.
Its the foundation of survival and decency.
My first by her, but certainly not the last.
5 Circle Justice Stars
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Profile Image for  Linathebookaddict  .
1,565 reviews407 followers
September 12, 2017
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Title: Redemption Island
Author: L.B. Dunbar
Category: Romance, Dark
Series or Standalone: Part of a duet, Book #1
POV: Dual
Plot: 3
Characters: 3
HEA: Not telling


Not what I expected. Review to come at a later date...
Profile Image for Melanie (mells_view).
1,929 reviews394 followers
September 25, 2017
If Naked & Afraid had a baby with Scared Straight

This was pretty good. It wasn't dark per say, but there were dark moments. It honestly felt like a stranded by choice story, where two people who do not want to be around each other end up leaning on one another. I feel like the story was interesting, but something was missing for me. Or maybe a piece of the story just didn't work and allow me to appreciate it as much.

I think if you are a super forgiving person, or can accept disliking a hero/heroine greatly then you will be able to enjoy this book at a five star. My dislike for one of the characters poor choices stopped from fully loving this one. That being said I will definitely read book two, because I did enjoy the read. 🤷🏽‍♀️. This is a long winded review, but whatever it's mine.
Profile Image for ⏃ : ✦ villainous_vixen ⏃ : ✦.
777 reviews115 followers
September 8, 2017


-Currently Reading.-

**From reading the blurb and looking at the gorgeous cover, I just had to sign up*


. . . . . . . . . . . . .

"Repentant for sin or not, this tropical haven was the religious revival she needed. She'd atone in the sun, bask in freedom, and hold no regret for the evil she'd done."

Redemption Island is a story that will stay with you. A novel that will grip your heart like a vice, and tears will be shed. I don't want to spoil anything, but I will say this is a must read for all romance lovers! I have read quite a few of L.B. Dunbar's novels and I must say Redemption Island is my favorite. One night will forever change Juliet and Tack's life forever. Will they be able to forgive themselves for their past sins..... and find love in the darkness?

Read to find out!
Profile Image for Picky_Book_B1tch.
625 reviews57 followers
August 28, 2017
There are books that are read for the pure enjoyment of the story and then there are those books that challenge how you think and change your view of the world, of humanity. This is one of those books that challenged me and I am a better person for having read it.

The only reason this is a 4 star and not 5, is that I felt as though L.B. pulled a few punches, held back when I needed her to follow through. Still, an awesome read. I am eagerly waiting for the next installment.
Profile Image for EscapeNBooks.
809 reviews
September 18, 2017
Redemption Island by Author L. B. Dunbar is book one in the Island Duet.

"He needed to be alone. He wanted to get away. A year on an island by himself sounded heavenly. Five-star accommodations or not, this punishment would be a piece of cake."

Tack has to atone for his sins, so he is sent to the island. Juliet must pay a price as well, and the Island is where the payment must take place.

"Repentant for sin or not, this tropical haven was the religious revival she needed. She’d atone in the sun, bask in freedom, and hold no regret for the evil she’d done."

Redemption Island was the book you take into a movie theater and read while flashes of the story appear so vivid in your mind that it is as if you could mentally project them onto the screen.

“I think I want you to tame me,” he hummed. “But you make me wild instead.”

This story was so incredibly different that what I was accustomed to from Author L. B. Dunbar. I was stunned and in awe. Although I have always enjoyed her stories, Redemption Island had a edge of mystery that surpassed the others and made me hang on each word.

"Each day, I feel as if I’m in a dream, and when night falls, I’m afraid to sleep and end the dream.”

I could feel the change in Tack and Juliet from the beginning of the story until the end. Their emotions, actions, and reactions remained true to their characters, but also revealed just how much impact they had on each other. It was so interesting how their life on the island, though immeasurably different, still paralleled real life.

"Without anger, we cannot know peace. Without hatred, we do not know love. It’s about recognizing one and controlling the other.”

The redemptive nature of the story coupled with a renewed love for self and others made this story emotionally compelling and physically rejuvenating. There was no doubt in my mind that this island had been created for Tack and Juliet to find one another in a new way, and I was their biggest cheerleader, cheering them on and wearing my emotions on my sleeve the whole way. There were shadows of sadness and despair that became lined with hope and newfound life. Laughing, crying, and celebrating with these characters, I heralded the triumph in their journey as they passed through each hurdle.

Redemption Island was a bold and suspenseful beginning to this new duet. Can't wait for more!
Profile Image for Dri ✰.
693 reviews240 followers
November 6, 2017
★ 4 stars! ★

“Without anger, we cannot know peace. Without hatred, we do not know love. It’s about recognizing one and controlling the other.”

Author 16 books167 followers
August 27, 2017
Before today, I could count the books that made a profound difference on the way I viewed the world on two fingers. Today, I added Redemption Island part 1, making the third.

The plot of the relationship between Tack and Juliet was not what impacted me the most, although I very much enjoyed their story. I was instantly drawn to each character despite their past choices, and I am looking forward to the continuation of their story in part 2. (I'm intentionally being vague because everything I start to write is telling of the plot in some way or other, and I believe this story will be best experienced with no preconceived notions and an open mind.)

Instead of reacting to the plot as I usually do in stories, it was the themes that permeated this book
that were the most insightful for me. Forgiveness. How your actions impact others directly and indirectly. Love and belonging and how humans crave them both. Self-reflection. Anger. Desire. Payment or penance for wrongs. Redemption. The ways the characters handled themselves and each other...when this part of the story was complete, I wondered if I could do as they did. I believe in redemption for most every wrong, and this story challenged me and my beliefs in a way that I feel has made a deep impression for me to work harder in believing in others and seeing their ability to change, be better, love more, forgive, and do what's right.

For the past four hours, I've been wandering aimlessly around my house trying to complete chores while in my head I was processing this story and what I wanted to say. I suspect I'll continue to think about this story for days, and I'll continue to have revelations about what it means for me in my life. I cannot wait for the second part of the duet, as I want to know what happens with these characters - individually, together, in their world, with their actions, and with their redemption. I predict Juliet and Tack will linger in my memory much longer than it takes to simply read two books. Hands down, I recommend reading this book and looking at the story for what it is and what it could be to you.
Profile Image for Hanna's Book Obsession.
615 reviews59 followers
September 15, 2017
3.5 Stars!
{I received this as an ARC in exchange for an Honest Review}

If you are looking for a different unique love story then look no further this book is for you. This book is really good. The reason I gave it a 3.5 stars was because the first part was so hard for me to read. I'm not saying it was bad it was just the context of what was going on was really hard for me personally to read. Once I got past the 20% mark it was really good. The first 20% was good as well. The whole book theme is so intriguing. They are in trouble with the law and instead of going to jail the get to stay on an "abandoned" Island for a year of solitude and reflection. The relationship between Juliet and Tack is very unique. They are both on Redemption Island for crimes that interconnect. They were supposed to be alone but ended up with each other. What started out as a victim and perpetrator relationship turns into friendship and even love. Seeing them start off as enemies and turn into lovers was really amazing. Juliet wants control of her life. Tack is tired of just taking whatever he wants, he wants permission.

"This is what he wanted. He wanted permission. This is what I needed. I needed to feel in control."

Being the only two on the island they gravitate to each other. Juliet may hate Tack but she doesn't want to hurt him. Tack has hurt Juliet before and all he wants now is to protect her. He never wants to hurt her again. Tack wants Juliet to forgive him, he needs her to. Juliet doesn't want to be hurt ever again and its hard for her to trust and to forgive Tack. The whole book is about seeking forgiveness and them coming together. I really enjoyed the relationship building how they took their time and got to really know each other. This book was not what I expected and I did enjoy it. This book was written so well. I LOVE books based on Islands and this one did not disappoint. I really liked it and I am super excited for book Two. I can't wait to get my hands on it and to see what is going to happen with these two! Plus this Cover is so gorgeous.Cover Love for sure it's beautiful. I can't wait to see the cover for book two!

Profile Image for Coco.V.
50k reviews130 followers
Want to read
July 21, 2019
🎁 FREE on Amazon & on iBooks today (7/21/2019)! 🎁
Profile Image for AJ's Book ReMarks.
1,577 reviews41 followers
September 8, 2017
I fucking love this book. Was this a dream? Is there a island? Don't know if I can wait for the rest of this story.
Oh, received an ARC from Iamabookhoarder in exchange for an honest review. Honestly, you need to read this damn story!
Profile Image for Rosemary.
449 reviews46 followers
September 24, 2017
When I first heard about Redemption Island, I was instantly intrigued by the premise. Tack and Juliet could not be more different. They have led completely different lives. Tack comes from a life of opulence and wealth, being used to getting or taking anything he wants. Juliet has always struggled for everything in her life Bad has been forced to be a victim one time too many. Both commit a crime that demands justice and are given the option of engaging in a social experiment. Instead of jail time, they can agree to a year of solitude on Redemptuon Island. Once there, they will use the solitude of the island to atone for their sins and seek redemption - even if they feel little or no guilt for the crimes committed. They both jump at the chance, thinking they will be able to get away and relax for a year. Neither knows yet other will be there and when their paths inevitably cross a year or isolation takes a turn neithe expected. This book was such a gripping and emotional read. It has a mystery in it I wasn't initially expecting that kept me glued to my kindle. I was completely engulfed in Tack and Juliet's struggles and I find myself anxious to read the second story in this duet. This was a unique and refreshingly different read I cannot recommend highly enough.
Profile Image for Hopelessly Addicted To Books .
3,622 reviews151 followers
September 15, 2017
The synopsis of this book really intrigued me and to be honest I wasn't really sure what I was going to get but the story gripped me right from the start.
I can't say too much about the story, Juliet and Tack's lives collide one night with devastating effect and set up they're visit to the island for their 'redemption'.
What a fantastic premise for a story, two good people who have done terrible things thrown unwittingly together. I couldn't put it down I wanted to find out how they were connected, would they meet up what would they say to each other.
I have so many unanswered questions and theories that I need answered. I can't help feeling that someone we have yet to meet is pulling the strings. Now I have an anxious wait for book two.


reviewed by Sweet Spot Sisterhood
Profile Image for Bookgasms Book Blog.
2,863 reviews1,564 followers
September 12, 2017
I...wait…what?

My brain!

My heart!

I don’t even know what just happened. The Island just held me in thrall, perched on the edge of my seat while Tack and Juliet played with my heart and my mind and my sense of what is wrong and what is right. I’m all turned around and somehow equal parts exhilarated, fearful, and captivated by these deeply flawed humans and the wonderfully imperfect relationship they forged with each other.

Or did they?

I have so many questions!

This book has an eerie feel to it. It’s a little bit Lost mixed with a pinch of Cast Away and the sort of dark, mind-bending nature of the storytelling was impossible to step away from. I read it voraciously and – in case you couldn’t tell – I invested in it completely and am dying for the conclusion! If you’re in the mood for something different, something twisty and suspenseful while also worming its way into your heart? Don’t even hesitate to pick Redemption Island up! ~ Shelly, 4 Stars
Profile Image for Irma *Irma The Book Whisperer*.
1,734 reviews147 followers
September 28, 2017
3.5

"Repentant for sin or not, this tropical haven was the religious revival she needed. She'd atone in the sun, bask in freedom, and hold no regret for the evil she'd done."

I've read this author before. I love her writing style. She tends to write ritch and powerful.

When you hear me start screaming
Listen, I ain't gonna quit
Gonna show you different sizes
That I guarantee to fit


This is a song that I like and it reminded me so much of this heroine. It suits her. It is how I saw her.

And that cliff! I need Return to the Island asap!

description
Profile Image for Tammi.
2,172 reviews31 followers
September 16, 2017
As soon as I saw the cover I knew I wanted to read this book. It just draws you in. I wanted to know her story! I wanted to know what happened to her! What has left her so lost and broken! The story that unravels was not what I expected it was so much more. From the very start the premise had me hooked without knowing much of the characters or back story I knew it was going to be GOOD!
What I didn't know was the emotions I would go through. I don't want to say much as far as the storyline because I don't want to give anything away and feel you should experience the story as a whole.
I will say a stay on Redemption Island allows its visitors to learn to accept, to learn to forgive and the hope to move forward as a different person. This was a beautiful story of soul searching. I LOVED it!
BUT my heart is broken, the ending I need the next one now!!! I need this story to go on, it can't stop there and I am not so patiently waiting for the rest. Come on October!!!
Profile Image for Life on Readpeat.
1,460 reviews105 followers
October 11, 2017
* Read more of my reviews at Whoo Gives A Hoot *
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I generously received this ARC from Foreword PR in exchange for an honest review...

Being the ultimate COVER WH*RE that I am, this cover is what initally drew me in, but it was the synopsis that had me hook, line and sinker! Instantly I knew that I had to get my hands on this story and boy am I glad that I did! This is the kind of story that you don't know what to expect and those are the books that always end up being my favorites. I like the surprise and adventure that I discover around every corner or in this case every chapter.

Redemption Island is essentially an experiment...it is about life, adventure and of course the chance for redemption, a chance to right your wrongs and a place to accept the consequences of your sentence. The premise of this story is intriguing and will keep readers on their toes from beginning to end. I loved the whole idea behind this duet and I cannot wait to get my hands on part 2 so that I can discover just how beneficial this experiment of redemption will hold for our two convicted souls.
Profile Image for Cee Cee Houston.
1,341 reviews27 followers
August 27, 2017
Wow!!! LB Dunbar has outdone herself. This is a fantastic story filled with regrets, suspense and a heat level so high it might just melt your kindle.
Come to a tropical paradise and meet your newest book boyfriend, Tack Corbin. He’s hot, he’s sexy and he won’t stop until he gets what he wants. But, what he once wanted, got him more than he bargained for.
Now, he’s paying the price.
So, does one bad deed deserve another? Is revenge the answer to a heinous crime?
Only the Island knows.
For Tack and his accuser, Juliet Montmore, a man and a woman linked by fate and sent to this sultry seclusion it’s a question they will be forced to ask and a test they may not pass.
Tack has be found guilty of a crime, but instead of being sentenced to jail, he is given a reprieve, a chance to reflect on what he’s been accused of and to save face and more importantly, according to his father, his family’s reputation and good name.
A year to live by himself with no one else to bother him. What could be better?
Juliet never wanted to be a victim and when she was cornered and faced with being hurt or saving herself, she was faced with the choice of ‘fight or flight’, unfortunately, she made the wrong decision. Now, she too faces a year on the island.
Neither knows the other is there.
What will happen if or when they met?
Can Juliet live with her choices? Can she face the man she knows can hurt, or even worse.
When they do come together, it’s ephemeral and entrancing. Juliet should be scared, not aroused. Tack should be running, not gazing at the silent beauty facing him.
Bound by chance, they find themselves drawn into a relationship of sorts. Both have issues, but the attraction keeps dragging them back together.
The chemistry between Tack and Juliet was obvious, even from their first tortuous meeting. As the story unfolds, we find out more of their history and what brought them to this place. Neither are completely innocent, but can love really conquer all.
Come to Redemption Island and find out.
I was gifted an ARC of this book by the author for an honest review.
Profile Image for Selma.
487 reviews99 followers
September 27, 2017
Redemption Island took me by surprise - it was literally a sucker punch to the gut. This book was angsty, dark and so very different from L.B. Dunbar's previous work. I love it that she is such a versatile and open-minded author who always comes up with new ideas for her readers and is not afraid to explore other genres. With her poignant writing and brutally honest portrait of the characters she has managed to pull at my emotions like a puppeteer at the strings of a marionette.

Make no mistake here - this is not the kind of book where the characters end up on a deserted island and have to embark on wild and dangerous adventures in order to survive. Redemption island is a place where they are deliberately brought for specific purposes - to atone for their sins, to reflect on their wrongdoings and to find a way to cope with the guilt, self-loathing and anger that are still haunting them. In order to earn forgiveness the two perpetrators will have to strip down to their souls and open up their hearts wide.

This is a deeply psychological and emotional book that will make you think and feel, re-evaluate your opinion and question your judgement of right and wrong. There is not only black or white in this book but many shades in between. Tack and Juliet are not your stereo-typical hero and heroine. These characters are complex and multi-layered, which I truly found very intriguing and refreshing.

I won't give you any hints about the storyline because this amazing book is best experienced and savoured if you go in blind. I couldn't part with my kindle for the life of me because I needed to know how the story continues and what the island has in tow for the characters. Yes, this book ends on a HUGE cliffhanger. I needed to take a deep breath, calm my nerves and immediately pre-order book two "Return to the Island". I hope that L.B. will release it early since waiting for the conclusion is going to be pure agony.

I can't remember the last time a book made my heart clench in pain and beat like a jungle drum full of joy in equal parts - this read was for sure an exhilarating journey I soon won't forget. I'm eager to find out how this story continues and how everything is going to be resolved. There are still so many things that need to be explained and secrets to be unraveled.

If you are a fan of suspense, dark romance and adventure books then this read is right up your alley. Grab it and fall deeply in love with this thought-provoking, unique story and its flawed but utterly lovable characters. L.B. Dunbar did a fantastic job with this one and I'm giving it 5 well deserved redemption stars!
Profile Image for Sejla.
552 reviews63 followers
September 27, 2017
When L.B. Dunbar announced that she is writting a duet which will be much different and darker than any of her previous books, I was totally intrigued. Knowing that she is an exceptionally talented and versatile author I couldn't wait to find out what she will make out of this story. Of course with every of her books I had high expectations! And let me tell you that she totally delivered. Redemption Island (book #1 in the Island Duet) was thought-provoking, dark and unputdownable from page one. At first I had no idea where the author wanted to go with this story, but the further I got into it, the more I could understand her intentions. You simply can't just read this book and move on. Oh no! It will make you question things and push your boundaries, leaving you with your mouth open and your heart craving for more!!!

I loved how the author described the island in such a picturesque and detailed way that I could see it clearly in front of my eyes. But what made the book so brilliant in my opinion were the two main characters Juliet and Tack. Both were broken and troubled by their past choices. She was the victim. He was the perpetrator. Together, they’re banished to the same island to atone for their sins. The whole book concentrates on one major question: Is it possible for these two convicted hearts to find what they are most looking for: love and forgiveness?

I adored Juliet and Tack with all their flaws! They were two decent people who just made wrong choices in life. Both harbour anger and feelings inside them that are draging them down. Their past is interconnected with each other and no matter what they do they can't run away from it. Staying at Redemption Island will help them to face their fears, reflect on their past actions and learn to forgive others, but most of all themselves. 

I won't give away more from the plot because I strongly believe that you need to experience this book on your own. All I can tell you is to prepare for an emotional rollercoaster par excellence because Redemption Island won't leave you unaffected!

If you want to meet L.B. Dunbar's dark side and are looking for a story about redemption, forgiveness and love - then this book is for you! I loved and enjoyed each and every word and can't wait for book #2 in order to find out how this story continues. I'm giving this amazing book and author 5 well deserved stars!
Profile Image for Laura Lee.
957 reviews174 followers
September 11, 2017
Redemption Island
By L.B. Dunbar
5 Stars

As soon as I finished this book, I thought to myself… Why the Heck have I not read any other books by this fantastic author? This book was written wonderfully, drew me in and had me reading the words that are so beautifully expressed without stopping!

I will admit, the title of this book had me weary of starting it. To me it sounds like a cheesy reality program. That is so far from the truth!!! What we have here is a book that is about two people who have done bad things. It’s a story that is told with such honesty that you find yourself second guessing whether or not what you are reading is a true story or a fictional book.

The highs of being alone on an island seeking redemption to the lows of being alone and trying to figure out if you will truly ever find redemption. To wanting to believe you are making progress in becoming a better person…to believing others when they tell you it’s just a dream.

Redemption Island is a must read!!! Great job to L.B. Dunbar for this fantastic story!!! Now, bring on Book 2 in this duet!!! I will be patiently waiting for it’s release!

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Profile Image for Lisa Hill.
530 reviews13 followers
August 27, 2017
This is the story of an alternative form of justice: a year alone on an isolated island in lieu of a prison sentence. The guilty party must evaluate why they are there, come to terms with their past and make changes for the future. They must leave a 'better' person.

Terrence 'Tack' Corbin is there because of a heinous crime his father wants to hush up. Juliet Montmore is there to atone for her crime and use the experience in her anthropological studies. Both of them think they are alone. And when they discover that they aren't, they realise they are linked in the most horrific way.

The story is told from alternate points of view, with the 'Island' narrating the odd chapter as a third character. I found this odd at first, but the further the story went on, I realised that it made sense.

I became very invested in the characters, I really felt for both of them. The story draws you in and you find yourself willing them to work it out. The ending brought me to tears, and I can't wait for book two of this duet.

I received an ARC of the book in exchange for an honest review.
Profile Image for Kim Carter.
665 reviews28 followers
August 28, 2017
ARC provided in exchange for an honest review!
Awe, I am in awe of the story L.B. Dunbar has provided us readers....and antsy, antsy because October is too long to have to wait for the second installment! I have read many of L.B. Dunbar's books, and Redemption Island...has topped the charts of my favorites of hers (and her alter ego Elda Lore). This book reminded me of one of my other favorites, Paper Swan by Leylah Attar...it is just beautifully written with complex, vulnerable and flawed characters. All the feels...raw, honest, sensual...it's here! Can't go into much because I don't like giving spoilers...but one of my favorite quotes: "We cannot appreciate one thing without knowing the opposite of it." and I also apparently need to read The Little Prince, I don't recall reading as a child...but am certain that if I did, my perception would be different as an adult than that of the 7-8 year old little girl. Redemption Island is a top 2017 read for me!
Profile Image for Karen323.
593 reviews16 followers
July 22, 2019
That was excellent!
I've read a few of LB Dunbar's "Silver Foxes" books and thought they were good. Nice, sweet, 4 star good. This book had a whole new level of writing that had sooooooo much more depth and character development than any other book of hers that I've read, and I was riveted. I want to read more of her books that are like this one. Together with a very original story line and back story, I thought this book was absolutely fantastic! It is told in dual perspectives which worked well here, and technically there was third perspective as well. A few chapters were told by the island itself, which I thought was very clever. Giving the island a voice lent a sense of spirituality to the whole thing. When an author comes up with such a far fetched premise, yet gets me completely invested in it, that’s talent. There is a bit of a cliffhanger (not a huge one though) and I am off to read book 2 now.
Profile Image for Kathy.
33 reviews4 followers
August 27, 2017
Intense and engrossing are two words that I can easily use when describing Redemption Island. What a read! As you are introduced to Tack and Juliette there is a learning curve to conquer. They are flawed individuals who have each made a poor decision which led them to be on the island. As you get to know them you understand the reasons for the decisions and thus you become very invested in their story.
This may seem strange, but as I read the book I felt that Redemption Island itself became a character. To me it represented the challenges the characters needed to face and accept to achieve peace. Their growth flourished to the tempo of the island and it was beautiful to watch.
Redemption Island is the first book of a duet and after finishing it, October can not come fast enough!
Profile Image for Jennifer.
953 reviews
August 28, 2017
What a wonderful book that draws you in from the very first page. As the author says, this book is about redemption, forgiveness, and love. This book is told from Tack and Juliet's point of views, about their time on the island, a way to serve out their so called sentences for their past crimes committed. We soon find out that the two are connected in a very unusual way that grips you in your core and won't let go. Throughout the book you feel, see, and read through each of their inner turmoil about why they are on the island and how they want to react to the other being on the island. And then we are hit with the ending! October 13th can't come soon enough.
Profile Image for Kelly - Words We Love By.
976 reviews12 followers
August 28, 2017
Great Job J.B. Dunbar! What a wonderful story of Redemption. At the beginning you couldn't help but hate Tack and all the awful stuff he had done. But while on the island he began to redeem his self. Little by little he began to open up and tell the truth about what happened and how his life has effected him. Also, Juliet started to discover the true Tack and even learn about herself and what she wanted in life. But after a horrible storm one night Tack and Juliet are ripped away from each other. After finally realizing what they both need, they lose it all.
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