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Sound of Silence #1
Stone Silence
Great big beautiful love.
Does it really exist?
Everyone tells me it does. They say, “Spencer Elliott, don’t worry, you’ll find it one day. You just have to find the right man and when you do, it will surprise the heck out of you.”
I’m still waiting for that heck of a surprise to hit. It has proven to be elusive thus far. I’m pretty sure the entire world is lying about love and the joke is on me.
I know I want a man in my heart and in my life. Unfortunately, most men immediately push my OFF button and I lose interest quickly.
Feeling pressure to prove I’m trying to find my soulmate, I finally give in and agree to a date. Huge mistake. Afterward I find myself abandoned in the middle of nowhere, in desperate need of help.
That’s when I meet Stony by chance.
He’s a silent and unsmiling man who intrigues me with his ability to keep going after life has knocked him down. Suddenly the abstract notion of love becomes tangible and within my reach. Once I experience it, I wonder how I ever lived without it.
That’s when I stay with Stony by choice.
But when Stony’s hidden past and present-day reality collide, his silence is broken. And the truth about his life nearly brings me to my knees. I can’t compete with ghosts from the past.
I refuse to fight for a man’s love. He either loves me or he doesn’t. It’s as simple and as complicated as that.
My only hope is . . . he does.
Does it really exist?
Everyone tells me it does. They say, “Spencer Elliott, don’t worry, you’ll find it one day. You just have to find the right man and when you do, it will surprise the heck out of you.”
I’m still waiting for that heck of a surprise to hit. It has proven to be elusive thus far. I’m pretty sure the entire world is lying about love and the joke is on me.
I know I want a man in my heart and in my life. Unfortunately, most men immediately push my OFF button and I lose interest quickly.
Feeling pressure to prove I’m trying to find my soulmate, I finally give in and agree to a date. Huge mistake. Afterward I find myself abandoned in the middle of nowhere, in desperate need of help.
That’s when I meet Stony by chance.
He’s a silent and unsmiling man who intrigues me with his ability to keep going after life has knocked him down. Suddenly the abstract notion of love becomes tangible and within my reach. Once I experience it, I wonder how I ever lived without it.
That’s when I stay with Stony by choice.
But when Stony’s hidden past and present-day reality collide, his silence is broken. And the truth about his life nearly brings me to my knees. I can’t compete with ghosts from the past.
I refuse to fight for a man’s love. He either loves me or he doesn’t. It’s as simple and as complicated as that.
My only hope is . . . he does.
266 pages, Kindle Edition
First published November 1, 2017
110 people are currently reading
785 people want to read
About the author
Taylor Dean
20 books751 followersTaylor Dean/Lee Taylor Dean lives in Texas and is the mother of four grown children. Upon finding herself with an empty nest, she began to write the stories always wandering around in her head, quickly finding she had a passion for writing, specifically romance. Whether it’s paranormal, contemporary, or suspense—you’ll find all sub-genres of clean romance in her line-up. Taylor has also jumped into the magical world of children’s books as Lee Taylor Dean, making one more dream into a reality.
Connect with Taylor on her website: www.taylordeanbooks.com
Connect with Taylor on her website: www.taylordeanbooks.com
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 63 reviews
November 29, 2017
There's something wonderful about opening up a book and starting that first sentence...
"Last night I dreamt I went to Manderley again." ~Rebecca
"Mr. and Mrs. Dursley, of number four, Privet Drive, were proud to say that they were perfectly normal, thank you very much." ~Harry Potter
"In a hole in the ground there lived a hobbit. Not a nasty, dirty, wet hole, filled with the ends of worms and an oozy smell, nor yet a dry, bare, sandy hole with nothing in it to sit down on or to eat" ~The Hobbit
"Mrs. Rachel Lynde lived just where the Avonlea main road dipped down into a little hollow, fringed with alders and ladies' eardrops and traversed by a brook that had its source away back in the woods of the old Cuthbert place;" ~Anne of Green Gables
"It is a truth universally acknowledged, that a single man in possession of a good fortune, must be in want of a wife." ~Pride and Prejudice
"I write this sitting in the kitchen sink." ~I Capture the Castle
"There was no possibility of taking a walk that day." ~Jane Eyre
There's no rhyme or reason as to why those first lines, just a shmorgishborg that happened to pop into my head to make you think of first lines. The excitement that can come. The loathing. The questioning if this book will be the one for you. The limitless possibilities of what's to come.
"I don't know which way to go. The GPS is not helping. What am I supposed to do?" Finn pulls over and parks the car. "I don't know what to do."
And that's the beginning of this book. A myriad of possibilities lie ahead. Who, where, what, why, how? Who is this person? Where are they going with the GPS? What is he talking about? Why don't they know which way to go? How are they going to fix it?
I love opening books and reading that first sentence/paragraph and having all these questions running through my mind. I can't wait to dive in and see where this reading journey is going to take me. Isn't that what we all (or at least most all readers) love about reading? The adventure and the journey. Yes the end product is fabulous too because you've figured it all out. But it's the journey that's so important, because without each curve and twist and character and detail there would be no final culminating adventure. Happy sigh, I love these book journeys.
Stone Silence was one of those lovely journeys for me. Unassuming, calm and a journey of growth and discovery. Two characters who have been on separate journeys, find themselves together through fate. For how else would they have found each other? Spencer, our female protagonist, finds herself in a strange circumstance, abandoned on the side of the road and left to find her own way. In the middle of nowhere she finds him. She asks for help and collapses. Stony saves her and helps her. As they come to befriend each other in their circumstances, the past and the future will collide. The question is...what choices and actions will come as this collision happens? And how will those choices and actions influence further collisions?
I know I'm being vague, but I think that the synopsis does a good job of giving the little details you need for the storyline. My job is to share my thoughts, albeit sometimes in a roundabout way. I loved Spencer and Stoney. I loved the easy friendship and the moments of silence. Oh, and I especially loved the quiet whispers (plural because it happens multiple times) of confession. So sweet and loving!
I was highlighting like crazy again in this book. Lots of smiles appeared on my face, a few frowns, several laughs came forth from my lips and maybe a couple grunts of disapproval. It was a very enjoyable read for me. I can't wait for the next two, which will be about a couple characters who were in this book. The only thing that I was hoping for a little more explanation, or maybe explanation isn't the right word because there was a good explanation. Maybe angst is a better word. More angst with the problem that builds throughout the book. The build up to it was great but the explanation given wasn't quite what I thought it was going to be. Don't get me wrong, I loved the characters reactions and counter reactions, and I did feel that the explanation fit ok but I was expecting something a little different as to why a person was where they were. I know more being vague, but sorry can't spoil it!
The humor and romance were great and balanced out nicely with the moments of introspection and healing. Overall I really enjoyed my reading journey.
Here are a couple quotes that I enjoyed.
"It's as if I was looking at the world through a black and white filter before I met Stony. Everything looked drab. Now I see the world in full vibrant color. It's as if I've been awakened, even though I didn't know I was sleeping."
"His fresh start just backfired on him. It's always best to let the truth be known from the get-go when it comes to relationships. Too bad I let that piece of wisdom escape me. It seems blareingly obvious right about now."
"Hey Spencer, just wanted to say..."
"There must be more to his story...I'm dying to know everything. However, that particular emotion evidently kills cats, so I suppress it."
"Whenever I go off like that my brother always quotes The Princess Bride and tells me, 'Truly, you have a dizzying intellect.' And I always tell him, 'Wait 'til I get going.' We're silly like that when we're together and I wouldn't change a thing."
Well that's all I'll share for now. Some of them might not make sense unless you get to know the characters but they sure made me smile. There are lots more great lines that had me chuckling. Spencer and Stony sure have some great chemistry and humor between them.
Definitely one I'd recommend to anyone who enjoys a good chick-lit with sweet romance and great characters. Can't wait for the next book in the series.
Content: Clean. Kissing but nothing further.
I received a review copy from ebooks. All thoughts and opinions in the review are my own.
Happy Reading!!!
"Last night I dreamt I went to Manderley again." ~Rebecca
"Mr. and Mrs. Dursley, of number four, Privet Drive, were proud to say that they were perfectly normal, thank you very much." ~Harry Potter
"In a hole in the ground there lived a hobbit. Not a nasty, dirty, wet hole, filled with the ends of worms and an oozy smell, nor yet a dry, bare, sandy hole with nothing in it to sit down on or to eat" ~The Hobbit
"Mrs. Rachel Lynde lived just where the Avonlea main road dipped down into a little hollow, fringed with alders and ladies' eardrops and traversed by a brook that had its source away back in the woods of the old Cuthbert place;" ~Anne of Green Gables
"It is a truth universally acknowledged, that a single man in possession of a good fortune, must be in want of a wife." ~Pride and Prejudice
"I write this sitting in the kitchen sink." ~I Capture the Castle
"There was no possibility of taking a walk that day." ~Jane Eyre
There's no rhyme or reason as to why those first lines, just a shmorgishborg that happened to pop into my head to make you think of first lines. The excitement that can come. The loathing. The questioning if this book will be the one for you. The limitless possibilities of what's to come.
"I don't know which way to go. The GPS is not helping. What am I supposed to do?" Finn pulls over and parks the car. "I don't know what to do."
And that's the beginning of this book. A myriad of possibilities lie ahead. Who, where, what, why, how? Who is this person? Where are they going with the GPS? What is he talking about? Why don't they know which way to go? How are they going to fix it?
I love opening books and reading that first sentence/paragraph and having all these questions running through my mind. I can't wait to dive in and see where this reading journey is going to take me. Isn't that what we all (or at least most all readers) love about reading? The adventure and the journey. Yes the end product is fabulous too because you've figured it all out. But it's the journey that's so important, because without each curve and twist and character and detail there would be no final culminating adventure. Happy sigh, I love these book journeys.
Stone Silence was one of those lovely journeys for me. Unassuming, calm and a journey of growth and discovery. Two characters who have been on separate journeys, find themselves together through fate. For how else would they have found each other? Spencer, our female protagonist, finds herself in a strange circumstance, abandoned on the side of the road and left to find her own way. In the middle of nowhere she finds him. She asks for help and collapses. Stony saves her and helps her. As they come to befriend each other in their circumstances, the past and the future will collide. The question is...what choices and actions will come as this collision happens? And how will those choices and actions influence further collisions?
I know I'm being vague, but I think that the synopsis does a good job of giving the little details you need for the storyline. My job is to share my thoughts, albeit sometimes in a roundabout way. I loved Spencer and Stoney. I loved the easy friendship and the moments of silence. Oh, and I especially loved the quiet whispers (plural because it happens multiple times) of confession. So sweet and loving!
I was highlighting like crazy again in this book. Lots of smiles appeared on my face, a few frowns, several laughs came forth from my lips and maybe a couple grunts of disapproval. It was a very enjoyable read for me. I can't wait for the next two, which will be about a couple characters who were in this book. The only thing that I was hoping for a little more explanation, or maybe explanation isn't the right word because there was a good explanation. Maybe angst is a better word. More angst with the problem that builds throughout the book. The build up to it was great but the explanation given wasn't quite what I thought it was going to be. Don't get me wrong, I loved the characters reactions and counter reactions, and I did feel that the explanation fit ok but I was expecting something a little different as to why a person was where they were. I know more being vague, but sorry can't spoil it!
The humor and romance were great and balanced out nicely with the moments of introspection and healing. Overall I really enjoyed my reading journey.
Here are a couple quotes that I enjoyed.
"It's as if I was looking at the world through a black and white filter before I met Stony. Everything looked drab. Now I see the world in full vibrant color. It's as if I've been awakened, even though I didn't know I was sleeping."
"His fresh start just backfired on him. It's always best to let the truth be known from the get-go when it comes to relationships. Too bad I let that piece of wisdom escape me. It seems blareingly obvious right about now."
"Hey Spencer, just wanted to say..."
"There must be more to his story...I'm dying to know everything. However, that particular emotion evidently kills cats, so I suppress it."
"Whenever I go off like that my brother always quotes The Princess Bride and tells me, 'Truly, you have a dizzying intellect.' And I always tell him, 'Wait 'til I get going.' We're silly like that when we're together and I wouldn't change a thing."
Well that's all I'll share for now. Some of them might not make sense unless you get to know the characters but they sure made me smile. There are lots more great lines that had me chuckling. Spencer and Stony sure have some great chemistry and humor between them.
Definitely one I'd recommend to anyone who enjoys a good chick-lit with sweet romance and great characters. Can't wait for the next book in the series.
Content: Clean. Kissing but nothing further.
I received a review copy from ebooks. All thoughts and opinions in the review are my own.
Happy Reading!!!
November 1, 2017
Oh man. I will always read everything Taylor Dean writes with no hesitation. Right now I'm feeling like one lucky girl that I get to read and review for her. I LOVE Taylor Dean books. If you have never read anything by her, you really must.
This book was full of those emotionally charged moments that I crave as a reader. It's more than just chemistry and physical attraction, although that is there in abundance as well. There is a building intensity throughout the book and I was so caught up in it. I honestly could not put it down. [This is where I freely admit how annoyed I was at EVERYTHING that pulled me away from this book the day I was reading it. I only wanted to sit and read and I wanted everyone and everything else to go away. That sounds horrible but hey, I'm a reader and that's what happens when you find a book that consumes you. The struggle is real.]
A well told story in the first person is especially attractive to me. I feel like I'm right there experiencing the thoughts and feelings myself. Watching Stony through Spencer's eyes was especially yummy because, well, Stony is hot. Spencer thinks so, so therefore, I think so too. He's got so many layers of mystery surrounding him which he doesn't really give up easily but when he does? Hold on to your heart.
I want to go back and read this book again. Right now.
This book is part of a three book series, each about a different character that connects with part of a story line. You need to read the books in order but there are no cliffhangers. Thankfully the books will be released just one month apart so the waiting time will be minimal. I've been waiting for this book for what feels like forever. I'm so glad I don't have to wait too long before the next book!
Content: kissing
This book was full of those emotionally charged moments that I crave as a reader. It's more than just chemistry and physical attraction, although that is there in abundance as well. There is a building intensity throughout the book and I was so caught up in it. I honestly could not put it down. [This is where I freely admit how annoyed I was at EVERYTHING that pulled me away from this book the day I was reading it. I only wanted to sit and read and I wanted everyone and everything else to go away. That sounds horrible but hey, I'm a reader and that's what happens when you find a book that consumes you. The struggle is real.]
A well told story in the first person is especially attractive to me. I feel like I'm right there experiencing the thoughts and feelings myself. Watching Stony through Spencer's eyes was especially yummy because, well, Stony is hot. Spencer thinks so, so therefore, I think so too. He's got so many layers of mystery surrounding him which he doesn't really give up easily but when he does? Hold on to your heart.
I want to go back and read this book again. Right now.
This book is part of a three book series, each about a different character that connects with part of a story line. You need to read the books in order but there are no cliffhangers. Thankfully the books will be released just one month apart so the waiting time will be minimal. I've been waiting for this book for what feels like forever. I'm so glad I don't have to wait too long before the next book!
Content: kissing
March 18, 2020
I knew after reading Chasing Fireflies by Taylor Dean that she would be one of those authors that I didn't pass on. I wasn't particularly compelled by the cover and description of this book, but I spotted some 5 star and rave reviews on Goodreads from friends that got me curious... and once I started reading it I blew through it in one morning. (One of those amazing mornings where the kids play so well together that I was granted the privilege of reading a book all the way through!) There's something about the author's writing style that brings the characters and their thoughts to life for me, and I loved it. I was seriously mad for Spencer when she gets abandoned by the jerk date she was with, I was apprehensive for her while she was searching for help in the middle of nowhere, I was relieved for her when the person she came across was a decent human being and gentleman. The dynamics of Spencer and Stony were intriguing and I especially loved their chemistry together amid the embarrassing missteps and wondering and yearning. They bring out the best in each other and their journey to happiness, while not without conflict, was enjoyable to read about. (Especially when they finally get to that first kiss! Worth the wait!) It's the best when I genuinely like both main characters and feel for them as they navigate difficult circumstances. Can't wait to pick up the next two books in this series!!!
(I received a complimentary copy of the book; all opinions in this review are my own)
(I received a complimentary copy of the book; all opinions in this review are my own)
October 10, 2019
This is a moody, single-PoV romance with some unique characters that works very well, despite being a bit fantastic (in the "reality probably wouldn't work that way" sense). There are some minor problems (mostly the fantasy bits, one of background/characterization), but I liked it very well in the end.
I engaged with Spencer right up front as she deals with her self-doubt and a jerk at the same time. Finn is the first hint we're in fantasy-land as he's a narcissistic jerk who kicks her out of his car in the middle of nowhere because she meant it when she said "separate hotel rooms". His brand of over-the-top creepiness is a bit hard to buy, mostly because he can't possibly hope to escape repercussions for his actions. So he's both narcissistic and stupid. Promising to take someone to a thing and back and then kicking them out of your car while keeping their purse, phone, and luggage is both robbery and, I dunno, kidnapping? Fraud? At any rate, it isn't going to play well for anyone who eventually hears about it and there's a friend group involved so lots of people definitely will. Can you tell he made me mad? Anyway, he might not work well as a person, but as setup for the premise of having her find Stony, it works if you let it. I chose to let it.
And it turns out I really liked both Spencer working out her dormant sexuality (though it's never expressed in such terms, she might fit the definition of demisexual) and Stony working out his body image problem (having lost a leg and relatively extensive burns). Seeing the two connect was very engaging, and Dean does a great job showing the taciturn guy communicating what he needs to despite a lack of complete sentences. I liked their connections, their misqueues, and their fragile tenderness as they get to know each other. But mostly I like that they work out communication when things blow up and that misreads, even very serious ones, aren't allowed to end the world because they actually make the choice to talk.
I was encouraged near the half-way mark when Dean took the sex issue head-on with Spencer being up front that she isn't a sex-outside-of-marriage kind of girl. I like that in a chaste romance because the lack of sex when they are otherwise getting intimate can be off-putting to me as a reader. Unfortunately, she squanders that later on when and at that point, characters need more than "I'm not that kind of girl". It doesn't help that while Spencer's parents are religious (on a mission for their church in Jamaica), we also see that for both of them, their only Sunday activity is lunch with Stony's mom. So this does better than most in providing a reason for them to be chaste, it still extends that beyond the reasonable in contemporary American (and/or Texan) characters.
And there are other fantastical elements that I don't feel the need to detail. The sometimes-fey mood establishes itself pretty early on, so if you get past that first day, you should be able to judge if it's going to bug you or not. I ended up quite enjoying it, but it will definitely be a matter of taste if you do, too.
So I'm ending this with a solid four stars for an enjoyable romance with engaging, non-standard characters who worked together to work things out. I liked them both immensely and was very happy with how well Dean handled their relationship and growing intimacy.
A note about Chaste: There's only kissing in the story so this is pretty chaste. I kind of wish it had been better supported for the characters, though.
A note about LGBT: I'm tempted to mark this as lgbt because Spencer has such an engaging quirk in who she is/isn't attracted to. It's pretty much just the one guy and Dean does an excellent job drawing me in and making that feel real. Unfortunately, it also ends up semi-insta that I edited in my head to mean she attached after getting to know him a bit. It wasn't a very long bit, though. Anyway, I bought it for the character, likely because it's part of the fantastical mood of the story. But actual demisexual or asexual readers might find that it doesn't match their own experiences very well.
A note about Missing Faith: I said most of what I want to about this above. I was disappointed when this fell into the quagmire despite almost managing at first.
I engaged with Spencer right up front as she deals with her self-doubt and a jerk at the same time. Finn is the first hint we're in fantasy-land as he's a narcissistic jerk who kicks her out of his car in the middle of nowhere because she meant it when she said "separate hotel rooms". His brand of over-the-top creepiness is a bit hard to buy, mostly because he can't possibly hope to escape repercussions for his actions. So he's both narcissistic and stupid. Promising to take someone to a thing and back and then kicking them out of your car while keeping their purse, phone, and luggage is both robbery and, I dunno, kidnapping? Fraud? At any rate, it isn't going to play well for anyone who eventually hears about it and there's a friend group involved so lots of people definitely will. Can you tell he made me mad? Anyway, he might not work well as a person, but as setup for the premise of having her find Stony, it works if you let it. I chose to let it.
And it turns out I really liked both Spencer working out her dormant sexuality (though it's never expressed in such terms, she might fit the definition of demisexual) and Stony working out his body image problem (having lost a leg and relatively extensive burns). Seeing the two connect was very engaging, and Dean does a great job showing the taciturn guy communicating what he needs to despite a lack of complete sentences. I liked their connections, their misqueues, and their fragile tenderness as they get to know each other. But mostly I like that they work out communication when things blow up and that misreads, even very serious ones, aren't allowed to end the world because they actually make the choice to talk.
I was encouraged near the half-way mark when Dean took the sex issue head-on with Spencer being up front that she isn't a sex-outside-of-marriage kind of girl. I like that in a chaste romance because the lack of sex when they are otherwise getting intimate can be off-putting to me as a reader. Unfortunately, she squanders that later on when and at that point, characters need more than "I'm not that kind of girl". It doesn't help that while Spencer's parents are religious (on a mission for their church in Jamaica), we also see that for both of them, their only Sunday activity is lunch with Stony's mom. So this does better than most in providing a reason for them to be chaste, it still extends that beyond the reasonable in contemporary American (and/or Texan) characters.
And there are other fantastical elements that I don't feel the need to detail. The sometimes-fey mood establishes itself pretty early on, so if you get past that first day, you should be able to judge if it's going to bug you or not. I ended up quite enjoying it, but it will definitely be a matter of taste if you do, too.
So I'm ending this with a solid four stars for an enjoyable romance with engaging, non-standard characters who worked together to work things out. I liked them both immensely and was very happy with how well Dean handled their relationship and growing intimacy.
A note about Chaste: There's only kissing in the story so this is pretty chaste. I kind of wish it had been better supported for the characters, though.
A note about LGBT: I'm tempted to mark this as lgbt because Spencer has such an engaging quirk in who she is/isn't attracted to. It's pretty much just the one guy and Dean does an excellent job drawing me in and making that feel real. Unfortunately, it also ends up semi-insta that I edited in my head to mean she attached after getting to know him a bit. It wasn't a very long bit, though. Anyway, I bought it for the character, likely because it's part of the fantastical mood of the story. But actual demisexual or asexual readers might find that it doesn't match their own experiences very well.
A note about Missing Faith: I said most of what I want to about this above. I was disappointed when this fell into the quagmire despite almost managing at first.
November 23, 2017
I am always for books with wounded war vets and this one has one! I love books with families as an important part of their lives, again, this book has it too! And I love a good romance, again another check for me!
Stony is a man with a furrowed brow and very little smile and he is respectful and kind and a man of few words. Intriguing indeed!
Spencer is a woman who just can’t get into dating and has dated very little and wonders if her “great big beautiful love” will ever come to her. She is not on a good note when her latest date is not a good guy at all and just drops her off in the middle of nowhere Texas with no money, phone or water. She walks and walks until she collapses at the feet of Stony! He cares for her sunburn and heat exhaustion because the roads are flooded now and they are stranded.
As they get to know one another, they fall for each other’s personality and they are kind of perfect for each other.
The story is told in Spencer’s POV. The characters have meaning and character and the story is really quite cute!
If you like medical stuff, dry humor, waiting till marriage, building your own home, flipping houses, vets, family or finding your great big beautiful love then this might be for you!
Stony is a man with a furrowed brow and very little smile and he is respectful and kind and a man of few words. Intriguing indeed!
Spencer is a woman who just can’t get into dating and has dated very little and wonders if her “great big beautiful love” will ever come to her. She is not on a good note when her latest date is not a good guy at all and just drops her off in the middle of nowhere Texas with no money, phone or water. She walks and walks until she collapses at the feet of Stony! He cares for her sunburn and heat exhaustion because the roads are flooded now and they are stranded.
As they get to know one another, they fall for each other’s personality and they are kind of perfect for each other.
The story is told in Spencer’s POV. The characters have meaning and character and the story is really quite cute!
His eyes simply wander my face for a moment. My heart beats fast in my chest, almost painfully. Is this what love feels like? Tingly stomach, sweaty palms, dizzy head, grinding teeth, racing pulse and weak knees. Sounds like I have the flu.
If you like medical stuff, dry humor, waiting till marriage, building your own home, flipping houses, vets, family or finding your great big beautiful love then this might be for you!
January 17, 2019
January 2019:
This is still an AMAZING book and I still LOVE it! Definitely one of my favorite series!
March 2018:
Oh my gosh! I still totally LOVE this book! It is SO good! Can't wait to reread the rest of this series! *dreamy sigh*
November 2017:
Spencer has been waiting for her big beautiful love her entire adult life. She starts to think that something is seriously wrong with her because she is repulsed by the touches of the men she has dated. She wishes that love would just hurry up and find her already. But alas, nothing.
Until a horrible incident leaves her stranded in the middle of no where. Hours of walking in the Texas summer sun has her in need of water and facing heat exhaustion. She knows she needs to find help soon or she could very well die out in the middle of nowhere. Add in the fact that a torrential downpour is heading her way and she knows she needs to find help sooner rather than later.
All of the sudden she hears a loud buzzing noise. She doesn't know where it's coming from but she just knows that she needs to follow that sound. She knows that this will lead her to the help she so desperately needs.
The moment she lays eyes on Stony she knows that her life is about to change in a very big way. She feels an instant connection to him that she has never felt with anyone before. This man right here is going to change her life.
They don't get off to the best of starts, but Stony soon comes to his senses and helps Spencer in her time of need. He nurses her back to health and has her feeling safer than she ever has in her life. But when the time comes for her to head back to her life, neither one of them are wanting to say goodbye.
It seems fate has something special in store for these two because circumstances beyond Spencer's control and a job offer from Stony has her staying in the small town for the foreseeable future. This will allow them to get to know each other better and give them time to see where their new budding relationship will go.
Life seems to be perfect and blissful until Stony's past comes knocking. All it takes is one moment, one look and Spencer is second guessing everything she has been feeling for Stony. Feeling blindsided she runs. She needs to get away before Stony can stop her. She's not going to make him choose between his past and his present. If she truly loves him like she knows he does, then she'll make it easy for him. She'll be the one to walk away even though it will kill her.
But Stony refuses to let her go. He refuses to let his past get in the way of his present and his future. His future is with Spencer. He has never loved someone as much as he loves her. She looks at him and love radiates from her eyes. He would be an idiot to let her slip through his hands and he will fight to keep her in his life. He will prove his love for her and prove that she is his happily-ever-after!
*dreamy sigh*
Oh. My. Gosh! I absolutely LOVE Stoned Silence! Talk about swoony! This book is AMAZING! I was sucked in from the very beginning and found myself lost in the journey of Spencer and Stony. I laughed out loud, got teary eyed, let out little dreamy sighs and refused to put this book down until I finished it! I devoured it!
I am definitely looking forward to the other books in this series! I can't wait to read them!
Ms. Dean has done an amazing job making me fall in love with more of her characters! I have loved all her books I have read so far and can't wait to see where she takes us next!
As for my casting... I saw these two from the very beginning! What do you think?!
*I voluntarily reviewed an advanced reader copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are solely my own.*
This is still an AMAZING book and I still LOVE it! Definitely one of my favorite series!
March 2018:
Oh my gosh! I still totally LOVE this book! It is SO good! Can't wait to reread the rest of this series! *dreamy sigh*
November 2017:
Spencer has been waiting for her big beautiful love her entire adult life. She starts to think that something is seriously wrong with her because she is repulsed by the touches of the men she has dated. She wishes that love would just hurry up and find her already. But alas, nothing.
Until a horrible incident leaves her stranded in the middle of no where. Hours of walking in the Texas summer sun has her in need of water and facing heat exhaustion. She knows she needs to find help soon or she could very well die out in the middle of nowhere. Add in the fact that a torrential downpour is heading her way and she knows she needs to find help sooner rather than later.
All of the sudden she hears a loud buzzing noise. She doesn't know where it's coming from but she just knows that she needs to follow that sound. She knows that this will lead her to the help she so desperately needs.
The moment she lays eyes on Stony she knows that her life is about to change in a very big way. She feels an instant connection to him that she has never felt with anyone before. This man right here is going to change her life.
They don't get off to the best of starts, but Stony soon comes to his senses and helps Spencer in her time of need. He nurses her back to health and has her feeling safer than she ever has in her life. But when the time comes for her to head back to her life, neither one of them are wanting to say goodbye.
It seems fate has something special in store for these two because circumstances beyond Spencer's control and a job offer from Stony has her staying in the small town for the foreseeable future. This will allow them to get to know each other better and give them time to see where their new budding relationship will go.
Life seems to be perfect and blissful until Stony's past comes knocking. All it takes is one moment, one look and Spencer is second guessing everything she has been feeling for Stony. Feeling blindsided she runs. She needs to get away before Stony can stop her. She's not going to make him choose between his past and his present. If she truly loves him like she knows he does, then she'll make it easy for him. She'll be the one to walk away even though it will kill her.
But Stony refuses to let her go. He refuses to let his past get in the way of his present and his future. His future is with Spencer. He has never loved someone as much as he loves her. She looks at him and love radiates from her eyes. He would be an idiot to let her slip through his hands and he will fight to keep her in his life. He will prove his love for her and prove that she is his happily-ever-after!
*dreamy sigh*
Oh. My. Gosh! I absolutely LOVE Stoned Silence! Talk about swoony! This book is AMAZING! I was sucked in from the very beginning and found myself lost in the journey of Spencer and Stony. I laughed out loud, got teary eyed, let out little dreamy sighs and refused to put this book down until I finished it! I devoured it!
I am definitely looking forward to the other books in this series! I can't wait to read them!
Ms. Dean has done an amazing job making me fall in love with more of her characters! I have loved all her books I have read so far and can't wait to see where she takes us next!
As for my casting... I saw these two from the very beginning! What do you think?!
*I voluntarily reviewed an advanced reader copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are solely my own.*
January 6, 2018
I can't stop obsessing about this story and it's fantastically flawed and real characters. Love sometimes comes when it's least expected and that's just what Spencer discovers. A very scary and bad experience ends up being the best thing that ever happened to her.
Although Spencer is in her late twenties, she's naive in the ways of relationships and love and I adored watching her discover her passion and emotional and romantic connections, especially with someone like Stony. He is like a stone--so hard to read. He has big secrets, a tragic past, and doesn't show emotion, yet there's something there that captivated Spencer...and me, especially with the way he would really talk to her.
Taylor Dean is a fantastic story teller! The way the story unravels through her words is seriously fantastic. I loved every single minute--the good times, the hard times, and especially the swoony romantic times. I felt that I really got to know these characters--what made them tick, what drove them, what they were passionate about. Who knew that the middle-of-nowhere Texas would steal my heart?! Must read the rest of the series, ASAP, because I've got a serious book hangover.
Content: mild-moderate swoony romance (kissing, some mild innuendo); very mild violence
*I received a copy through eBooks for Review, which had no influence on my thoughts and opinions.*
Although Spencer is in her late twenties, she's naive in the ways of relationships and love and I adored watching her discover her passion and emotional and romantic connections, especially with someone like Stony. He is like a stone--so hard to read. He has big secrets, a tragic past, and doesn't show emotion, yet there's something there that captivated Spencer...and me, especially with the way he would really talk to her.
Taylor Dean is a fantastic story teller! The way the story unravels through her words is seriously fantastic. I loved every single minute--the good times, the hard times, and especially the swoony romantic times. I felt that I really got to know these characters--what made them tick, what drove them, what they were passionate about. Who knew that the middle-of-nowhere Texas would steal my heart?! Must read the rest of the series, ASAP, because I've got a serious book hangover.
Content: mild-moderate swoony romance (kissing, some mild innuendo); very mild violence
*I received a copy through eBooks for Review, which had no influence on my thoughts and opinions.*
May 24, 2023
May 2023 - I just re-read this book and loved it just as much the second time! (And this time I was able to read all 3 books in this series at the same time - it was fun to read them together because the 3 families are so interwoven!)
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I loved this book! If Books 2 and 3 were already written, I would be reading them right now! Luckily, Book 2 comes out in a few weeks and Book 3 comes out in a month and a half so I won't have to wait too long.
I love how Taylor Dean tells a story, and I love the story of Stony and Spencer. Spencer starts out in a precarious situation, and so she's not at her best when she meets Stony for the first time. Unfortunately, he's not at his best either. Fortunately, because of the situation they are forced together long enough to get past first impressions.
But Stony's past is a dark shadow hanging over their new love, and Spencer's innocence hasn't really prepared her to navigate those shadows.
I can't wait to read Mia's and Grayson's story next - while we were introduced to the characters in this book, we didn't get to know them. I'm even more excited to read about Jace and Shay in Book 3. (And I hope Blake gets his story somewhere along the way)
Content: Clean, passionate kissing
Source: Review Copy (opinion is 100% my own)
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I loved this book! If Books 2 and 3 were already written, I would be reading them right now! Luckily, Book 2 comes out in a few weeks and Book 3 comes out in a month and a half so I won't have to wait too long.
I love how Taylor Dean tells a story, and I love the story of Stony and Spencer. Spencer starts out in a precarious situation, and so she's not at her best when she meets Stony for the first time. Unfortunately, he's not at his best either. Fortunately, because of the situation they are forced together long enough to get past first impressions.
But Stony's past is a dark shadow hanging over their new love, and Spencer's innocence hasn't really prepared her to navigate those shadows.
I can't wait to read Mia's and Grayson's story next - while we were introduced to the characters in this book, we didn't get to know them. I'm even more excited to read about Jace and Shay in Book 3. (And I hope Blake gets his story somewhere along the way)
Content: Clean, passionate kissing
Source: Review Copy (opinion is 100% my own)
December 31, 2022
Silence is golden...
I'm not sure what I expected when beginning this book, but it sure took me by surprise! I was taken back upon our main character's first encounter with our hero. I had a hard time imagining how their romance could grow based on his quiet and reserved nature, but grow it did! There was such a sweetness to this story- a tenderness to the way they fell in love. I was also not expecting some of the plot twists. It was a wonderful book, with a toe-curling (and clean!) romance. I can't wait to read more in the series!
I'm not sure what I expected when beginning this book, but it sure took me by surprise! I was taken back upon our main character's first encounter with our hero. I had a hard time imagining how their romance could grow based on his quiet and reserved nature, but grow it did! There was such a sweetness to this story- a tenderness to the way they fell in love. I was also not expecting some of the plot twists. It was a wonderful book, with a toe-curling (and clean!) romance. I can't wait to read more in the series!
September 21, 2023
#refreshing #motorhouseLove #sheIsNewToLove #sheThinkHeLovesOW #aLittleOWdrama #OWinprison
January 17, 2018
4 1/2 stars.
A very different story. I don't usually love books written in 1st person present tense, but I can read the authors' just fine. It just goes to prove, if it's done well, it works.
Elliott meets Stoney in unusual circumstances. I had to suspend my belief of reality a little about their arrangement, but once I put it aside, I was able to keep reading.
Stoney has lots of secrets, things that have really affected his life, but his heart is in the right place. Elliott is naïve and her discovery and explorations, the way Stoney gets involved, the build-up of their relationship, the building of the house (the house and the yard!), the moments in the trailer—all pulled me in more and more.
There are also some hard moments, of course, but the ending was very sweet and totally worthwhile.
I already read the 2nd and 3rd, also 5 stars.
I received a free copy of this book which did not influence my opinion.
A very different story. I don't usually love books written in 1st person present tense, but I can read the authors' just fine. It just goes to prove, if it's done well, it works.
Elliott meets Stoney in unusual circumstances. I had to suspend my belief of reality a little about their arrangement, but once I put it aside, I was able to keep reading.
Stoney has lots of secrets, things that have really affected his life, but his heart is in the right place. Elliott is naïve and her discovery and explorations, the way Stoney gets involved, the build-up of their relationship, the building of the house (the house and the yard!), the moments in the trailer—all pulled me in more and more.
There are also some hard moments, of course, but the ending was very sweet and totally worthwhile.
I already read the 2nd and 3rd, also 5 stars.
I received a free copy of this book which did not influence my opinion.
November 4, 2017
This beautiful love story is about Spencer (the heroine) and Stony (the quiet hero). When a tragic scene places Spencer on Stony’s porch desperate for water and care, he wants nothing to do with the forlorn stranger. But knowing there’s no other option, Stony takes care of the young woman and finds himself falling for her, even as he battles demons from the past. Spencer has never felt that pitter-patter of her heart for a man before, and has often wondered if something is wrong with her. But she falls hard and fast for Stony. Is she setting herself up for heartbreak? He’s obviously hung up on someone from his past. I’ve read this twice now (having received an early copy), and can’t get enough of it. It was even better the second time through. This tale just wrapped me in its arms and held me tight. I adored each character, and wanted it to never end. Dean is a talented author who always writes intriguing and unique love stories that stick with me long after I finish reading.
June 8, 2018
It’s been a while since I’ve read something from Taylor Dean, and after reading Stony Silence I’m wondering why. The author has a way of writing endearing characters and moving plots that stay with you long after the book is finished. I love the rawness of Stony and Spencer’s journey, and I appreciate the author’s delicate way of addressing heavy issues. I still think there needed to be a stronger punishment for Finn (that man was crazy!), but it all worked out in the end. I can’t wait to start the next one in the series.
March 15, 2018
Does love really exist? Spencer Elliott is determined it does not. She just cannot catch a break. After a date gone wrong and being deserted in the middle of nowhere, Spencer is left to the help of others. Only the person who she asks for help wants her gone.
Stony is a private man who has his own trials to work through. A man of few words he reluctantly agrees to help Spencer.
I loved watching their relationship unfold. Both in need of trust and understanding they begin to heal. Spencer is a woman of strength. I admire her for her willingness to stand her ground and not be swayed in her morals. Stony is a true gentleman who needs love and forgiveness of himself.
I cannot wait to read the other books in this series. A wonderful read and I purely enjoyed it.
*Please note I received a complimentary copy. All opinions expressed are my own.
Stony is a private man who has his own trials to work through. A man of few words he reluctantly agrees to help Spencer.
I loved watching their relationship unfold. Both in need of trust and understanding they begin to heal. Spencer is a woman of strength. I admire her for her willingness to stand her ground and not be swayed in her morals. Stony is a true gentleman who needs love and forgiveness of himself.
I cannot wait to read the other books in this series. A wonderful read and I purely enjoyed it.
*Please note I received a complimentary copy. All opinions expressed are my own.
Read
January 6, 2018This book was a fun surprise. I don't normally love a book written in first person, but this book was definitely the exception. I had to make myself put it down so I could take time to savor every minute. The characters in the story were well written and developed. I enjoyed reading their story. I love Stoney and the way he communicates with Spencer. I love Spencer's open and honest way of living life.
I look forward to reading more from Taylor Dean.
I look forward to reading more from Taylor Dean.
May 4, 2018
4.5/5.0
A solid contemporary romance, “Stone Silence” has all the features of a winner of a clean romance.
Read full review in the 2018 May issue of InD'tale Magazine.
A solid contemporary romance, “Stone Silence” has all the features of a winner of a clean romance.
Read full review in the 2018 May issue of InD'tale Magazine.
November 1, 2017
Stone Silence is one of those books that draws you n from the first page.
Spencer gets put into a very prickly situation, and hopes to find help at the mercy of Stony. At first Stony doesn’t want to give into the urge to rescue this woman in distress, but his heart is softened when he sees her predicament.
The spend a great deal of time together. It forces them to get to know each other, and in the process they fall in love. For Spencer this is a new sensation, as she has never felt the pull towards another, and she can’t quite explain this strong attraction.
For Stony it’s hard on so many levels, because it forces him to face many demons from his past. And he has a whole lot, some real, some he has put up all by himself.
They seem to be on the course to a perfect happily ever after, until Stony’s past catches up to him. It forces the couple to face their fears, their insecurities, and ultimately decide if what they have is worth fighting for.
I loved reading this book. The raw emotions, the character growth, the tingling romance all had me reading this at record speed, and left me thinking about this book for long after I had put this book down.
A great start to an amazing series.
Spencer gets put into a very prickly situation, and hopes to find help at the mercy of Stony. At first Stony doesn’t want to give into the urge to rescue this woman in distress, but his heart is softened when he sees her predicament.
The spend a great deal of time together. It forces them to get to know each other, and in the process they fall in love. For Spencer this is a new sensation, as she has never felt the pull towards another, and she can’t quite explain this strong attraction.
For Stony it’s hard on so many levels, because it forces him to face many demons from his past. And he has a whole lot, some real, some he has put up all by himself.
They seem to be on the course to a perfect happily ever after, until Stony’s past catches up to him. It forces the couple to face their fears, their insecurities, and ultimately decide if what they have is worth fighting for.
I loved reading this book. The raw emotions, the character growth, the tingling romance all had me reading this at record speed, and left me thinking about this book for long after I had put this book down.
A great start to an amazing series.
January 2, 2018
Romance, clean
Lovely romance. The h isn't perhaps the strongest character, but still a sweet fall. Definitely a Beauty and the Beast retelling in a contemporary setting with the only 'magic' being the romance.
Spencer (the h) has been unlucky in love. Stranded she is walking down a deserted highway, and enters the compound to find water and some help. Stony gruffly greets her, and it is the start of their fall. Heartfelt, genuine, honest characters, and a fun, romantic, contemporary fairy tale retelling.
Lovely romance. The h isn't perhaps the strongest character, but still a sweet fall. Definitely a Beauty and the Beast retelling in a contemporary setting with the only 'magic' being the romance.
Spencer (the h) has been unlucky in love. Stranded she is walking down a deserted highway, and enters the compound to find water and some help. Stony gruffly greets her, and it is the start of their fall. Heartfelt, genuine, honest characters, and a fun, romantic, contemporary fairy tale retelling.
November 8, 2018
Stone Silence (Sound of Silence Series 1) - PG
Violence: none
Language: nothing offensive
Sex: no sex, some delicious kissing
Similar to *Beauty and the Beast* if Beast were a catch and a half from the get-go! Oh, Stony is something else! Why haven't I been reading Taylor Dean's books all along? The connection between the leads is so cool and I loved how the heroine finally found Love. Great book!
Violence: none
Language: nothing offensive
Sex: no sex, some delicious kissing
Similar to *Beauty and the Beast* if Beast were a catch and a half from the get-go! Oh, Stony is something else! Why haven't I been reading Taylor Dean's books all along? The connection between the leads is so cool and I loved how the heroine finally found Love. Great book!
July 8, 2018
A cute and simple romance. An easy fluff book.
December 11, 2017
I have always said Taylor Dean and I are on the same wavelength when it comes to how our minds work. This book once again proves it. She writes books that are books I'd write. This is really creepy, but a couple days before I started this book, I had a dream about a firefighter who lost his leg in an accident. In my dream, I told myself that my dream would make a good book. No, Stony didn't lose his leg by being a firefighter, but he did lose a leg! Other books she's written, have been things I've thought of in the past. Another author I do that with is Kathi Daley. It's crazy! I think we must all be wired the same way when it comes to our imaginations!
Anyway, Stone Silence is another great book by Taylor Dean. She based part of it on an idea she had when she and her husband got lost. She talks about this on her blog, so you need to go over there to read it! In this book, getting lost with a jerk of a guy is the best thing that could have happened to Spencer. She ends up meeting Stony. From their first encounter through the end of the book, you'll love Spencer and Stony's story. It goes to show you that a bad situation can end up being a blessing.
Once again, Taylor Dean has created characters that are full of depth. They have flaws and face conflicts, but through trials they become stronger and learn about themselves. The story has a lot to do with trust and forgiveness. It is a clean romance as are all of the books she's written. I really appreciate that she sticks to her convictions in spite of the fact that publishers tell authors they've got to have sex in their books if they want to sell. Money isn't everything. Morals are. I'm grateful for authors like her. I recommend all her books!
Anyway, Stone Silence is another great book by Taylor Dean. She based part of it on an idea she had when she and her husband got lost. She talks about this on her blog, so you need to go over there to read it! In this book, getting lost with a jerk of a guy is the best thing that could have happened to Spencer. She ends up meeting Stony. From their first encounter through the end of the book, you'll love Spencer and Stony's story. It goes to show you that a bad situation can end up being a blessing.
Once again, Taylor Dean has created characters that are full of depth. They have flaws and face conflicts, but through trials they become stronger and learn about themselves. The story has a lot to do with trust and forgiveness. It is a clean romance as are all of the books she's written. I really appreciate that she sticks to her convictions in spite of the fact that publishers tell authors they've got to have sex in their books if they want to sell. Money isn't everything. Morals are. I'm grateful for authors like her. I recommend all her books!
November 7, 2017
Stony
-‘...he’s the Beast. Full of both rage and kindness all at once.’-
Her jerk of a boyfriend dumps her on the side of the road, abandoning her in the middle of nowhere because she won’t “put out”. He leaves her stranded without her purse, cell phone, water, or any clothes, in the middle of a hot, Texas summer on a deserted road. After walking for hours, she finally stumbles upon a lone house under construction and weakly asks for help from the stranger who is reluctant to help her in any way before she passes out from heat exhaustion. What follows is a remarkable series of events and twists and turns - a story well worth reading!
I hadn’t made the connection to the author’s name when I first picked this one up. In fact, I wasn’t until I finished reading and saw a list of her other books that I realized I had read some of her work previously and really enjoyed it. So, for me, two for two! Great stories and well worth the read. This is a clean romance story and it is well-written. Given a chance, I would love to keep reading the next books in the series.
-‘...he’s the Beast. Full of both rage and kindness all at once.’-
Her jerk of a boyfriend dumps her on the side of the road, abandoning her in the middle of nowhere because she won’t “put out”. He leaves her stranded without her purse, cell phone, water, or any clothes, in the middle of a hot, Texas summer on a deserted road. After walking for hours, she finally stumbles upon a lone house under construction and weakly asks for help from the stranger who is reluctant to help her in any way before she passes out from heat exhaustion. What follows is a remarkable series of events and twists and turns - a story well worth reading!
I hadn’t made the connection to the author’s name when I first picked this one up. In fact, I wasn’t until I finished reading and saw a list of her other books that I realized I had read some of her work previously and really enjoyed it. So, for me, two for two! Great stories and well worth the read. This is a clean romance story and it is well-written. Given a chance, I would love to keep reading the next books in the series.
November 15, 2017
Spencer Elliott is a 27 year old single woman. Her friends and family are constantly trying to get her to put herself out there in the dating pool. After a month of group dates with Finn, Spencer decides to take and chance and travels 7 hours to a concert with him. Before they leave, she makes sure Finn knows they each need to have their own hotel room and that she won’t be sleeping with him. On the way home from the concert, the date goes very bad when Finn drops Spencer in the middle of nowhere without her suitcase or her purse. This cute romance has delightful characters. I love the way Spencer looks at everything through her psychology degree. I loved Stoney’s silence! I will definitely be looking forward to reading Mia’s story!
November 12, 2017
*I received an ARC of this book in exchange for a fair and honest review.*
I've adored every single book I've ever read by Taylor Dean. They are well crafted stories that hook you in by your heart strings and wrap you up in the emotions and the character development that has you rooting for these people that you grow to imagine in your heart.
Stone Silence is no difference. Spencer is left in a situation which will rile you up, and just like that, she finds a mysterious stranger who helps her out of a situation. The development of the plot is a slow yet fast paced love story that will take you through a plethora of emotions. I absolutely adored this book.
I've adored every single book I've ever read by Taylor Dean. They are well crafted stories that hook you in by your heart strings and wrap you up in the emotions and the character development that has you rooting for these people that you grow to imagine in your heart.
Stone Silence is no difference. Spencer is left in a situation which will rile you up, and just like that, she finds a mysterious stranger who helps her out of a situation. The development of the plot is a slow yet fast paced love story that will take you through a plethora of emotions. I absolutely adored this book.
December 13, 2017
Stony Silence was absolutely intriguing and breathtaking. I would compare Taylor to Amy Harmon, but recommend her more. Her characters have morals that allows the reader to simply enjoy the story and the emotions without material that is unwanted or unneeded. Spencer’s issues with men and her lack of connection is easily relatable. Stony’s issues were real and created such a strong loveable character. The romance was packed with emotion and drama that had the perfect level to draw you in and tug at your heart string. I really loved the story from beginning to end
December 16, 2017
I loved this book. I loved the characters (except for Finn-would have loved to see him go to jail). I loved the setting. I loved the writing. I loved that it was a clean romance. I loved the happy ending.
Just all around wonderful book.
Didn't take me long to read it, then I went and downloaded the next one in the series. Would have gotten the third one but it wasn't available yet.
Highly recommend!
Just all around wonderful book.
Didn't take me long to read it, then I went and downloaded the next one in the series. Would have gotten the third one but it wasn't available yet.
Highly recommend!
February 4, 2022
Wow, I absolutely loved this contemporary romance. It was perfection. I was addicted and couldn’t stand to put it down. Sky high chemistry and an awesome leading main character.
The author nailed this main character. (All except her name, that is. Couldn’t get used to her being called Spencer. I’ve never heard of a girl having that name. It was jarring every time it was used.) Anyway- back to the character. She reacts just exactly as I would in the climax of the book. So often in YAs I read lately, the MC reacts with aggression or rage when she’s betrayed or devastated. But honestly, when I feel HURT, it doesn’t look like pure anger. It looks like tears and emotion, some anger, but mostly just HURT, and that translates to an all consuming urge to escape the situation/person who is the source of the humiliation. I would rather die than confront the person in a public spectacle, or even be near them. I’m already feeling vulnerable, I’m already feeling like a sucker. I wouldn’t want to put myself on display for even one more moment of humiliation. I can’t stand it when MC’s make an angry scene in public, or linger to grovel. So, FINALLY in this book there’s an MC that behaves in a way that I completely connected with, that I felt was very genuine. The emotion in the scene was so raw. I FELT everything. And I thought the way the whole thing went down was completely on point. WELL DONE!!
I also loved other aspects of her personality. She had such a good understanding of her emotions and thoughts, and what motivations and feelings were likely to be driving other people’s actions… It was probably due to her psychology background. I didn’t mind being in her mature, clear head, which says a LOT. She was merciful in the way she thought about other people. She had a lot of grace. She was quick to like people, and I loved that about her. I also really connected with her character when she says she absolutely refuses to fight for a guy if he’s torn between her and someone or something else. I totally relate to the mindset “he’s either 100% devoted or I’m walking.” YES, girl, YES. (Incidentally, I feel like any self respecting guy should feel that way too. So in most cases I can’t stand a love triangle where a girl is equally stringing along two guys and can’t decide which one she likes better. That makes them both so pathetic for sticking around.)
Also, I loved how she valued family over career. I thought for sure she would opt for her original Plan A (I’m avoiding spoilers) because that’s valued so highly in our modern culture. But that wasn’t a given at the end. In fact I’d say she had had a change of heart. (It felt like the author left it open as a nod to readers who would be in an uproar otherwise.) But that shift in her life plans? I LOVED THAT. I can’t even express how much I LOVE THAT. Priorities change. It’s what love does to you.
Mic drop.
Now, as for Stony. I liked him in every way. (Except the smiling thing. And the name. His name also stuck in my mental throat. Major fail for both MC names.) He was PERFECTION. Even though he wasn’t funny or witty or charming, he was still SO swoony and that says A LOT about the talent of this author. To make me attracted to a serious guy who doesn’t really flirt? That’s a feat of epic proportions but THIS AUTHOR SUCCEEDED!
…But to never smile? I can’t even comprehend it. Honestly, it went way too long (happiness equates to smiling, plain and simple. And we KNOW he’s capable so ???????????? It was almost unforgivable that his relief at one point was more poignant than his developing LOVE when it came to him smiling… I’m being cryptic so I don’t give any spoilers), but I understand the drama the author wanted to create so I forgive the lack of realism. And although his… we’ll call them speeches, were totally unrealistic as well, I loved them and kinda wanted them to continue. I also wanted to see more of his prosthetic and his scars in the story. I wanted to see the role those physical imperfections (that were actually strengths in his character development) would play in their intimate relationship.
The writing was great. The only teeny complaint I could have on that front was that the dialogue felt a little stiff/formal at times. (For instance, using words like “seldom” or “upon” are just not words we use in vernacular. Also, it felt stilted when the MC kept using his name in their conversation. Referring to someone by name in the middle of a 2-way conversation is just not natural.) Besides that, I really liked the writing.
Plot was great. I was captivated throughout!
Content:
Language- no swearing
Sex- no sex. Only very mild innuendo in conversation. Some great kisses and high chemistry, though! MCs were not sexually active, although they both felt passion. They both individually wanted to wait until marriage. They gave no faith based reason- it was just the type of people they were. It’s sad that that seems so strange nowadays. I thought it was commendable and awesome! Still, I would have really liked a fade to black /pull the curtain scene between them in the epilogue, once they are married. I like “steamy clean.”
Religion- none.
Cover- okay
I read this on KU
The author nailed this main character. (All except her name, that is. Couldn’t get used to her being called Spencer. I’ve never heard of a girl having that name. It was jarring every time it was used.) Anyway- back to the character. She reacts just exactly as I would in the climax of the book. So often in YAs I read lately, the MC reacts with aggression or rage when she’s betrayed or devastated. But honestly, when I feel HURT, it doesn’t look like pure anger. It looks like tears and emotion, some anger, but mostly just HURT, and that translates to an all consuming urge to escape the situation/person who is the source of the humiliation. I would rather die than confront the person in a public spectacle, or even be near them. I’m already feeling vulnerable, I’m already feeling like a sucker. I wouldn’t want to put myself on display for even one more moment of humiliation. I can’t stand it when MC’s make an angry scene in public, or linger to grovel. So, FINALLY in this book there’s an MC that behaves in a way that I completely connected with, that I felt was very genuine. The emotion in the scene was so raw. I FELT everything. And I thought the way the whole thing went down was completely on point. WELL DONE!!
I also loved other aspects of her personality. She had such a good understanding of her emotions and thoughts, and what motivations and feelings were likely to be driving other people’s actions… It was probably due to her psychology background. I didn’t mind being in her mature, clear head, which says a LOT. She was merciful in the way she thought about other people. She had a lot of grace. She was quick to like people, and I loved that about her. I also really connected with her character when she says she absolutely refuses to fight for a guy if he’s torn between her and someone or something else. I totally relate to the mindset “he’s either 100% devoted or I’m walking.” YES, girl, YES. (Incidentally, I feel like any self respecting guy should feel that way too. So in most cases I can’t stand a love triangle where a girl is equally stringing along two guys and can’t decide which one she likes better. That makes them both so pathetic for sticking around.)
Also, I loved how she valued family over career. I thought for sure she would opt for her original Plan A (I’m avoiding spoilers) because that’s valued so highly in our modern culture. But that wasn’t a given at the end. In fact I’d say she had had a change of heart. (It felt like the author left it open as a nod to readers who would be in an uproar otherwise.) But that shift in her life plans? I LOVED THAT. I can’t even express how much I LOVE THAT. Priorities change. It’s what love does to you.
Mic drop.
Now, as for Stony. I liked him in every way. (Except the smiling thing. And the name. His name also stuck in my mental throat. Major fail for both MC names.) He was PERFECTION. Even though he wasn’t funny or witty or charming, he was still SO swoony and that says A LOT about the talent of this author. To make me attracted to a serious guy who doesn’t really flirt? That’s a feat of epic proportions but THIS AUTHOR SUCCEEDED!
…But to never smile? I can’t even comprehend it. Honestly, it went way too long (happiness equates to smiling, plain and simple. And we KNOW he’s capable so ???????????? It was almost unforgivable that his relief at one point was more poignant than his developing LOVE when it came to him smiling… I’m being cryptic so I don’t give any spoilers), but I understand the drama the author wanted to create so I forgive the lack of realism. And although his… we’ll call them speeches, were totally unrealistic as well, I loved them and kinda wanted them to continue. I also wanted to see more of his prosthetic and his scars in the story. I wanted to see the role those physical imperfections (that were actually strengths in his character development) would play in their intimate relationship.
The writing was great. The only teeny complaint I could have on that front was that the dialogue felt a little stiff/formal at times. (For instance, using words like “seldom” or “upon” are just not words we use in vernacular. Also, it felt stilted when the MC kept using his name in their conversation. Referring to someone by name in the middle of a 2-way conversation is just not natural.) Besides that, I really liked the writing.
Plot was great. I was captivated throughout!
Content:
Language- no swearing
Sex- no sex. Only very mild innuendo in conversation. Some great kisses and high chemistry, though! MCs were not sexually active, although they both felt passion. They both individually wanted to wait until marriage. They gave no faith based reason- it was just the type of people they were. It’s sad that that seems so strange nowadays. I thought it was commendable and awesome! Still, I would have really liked a fade to black /pull the curtain scene between them in the epilogue, once they are married. I like “steamy clean.”
Religion- none.
Cover- okay
I read this on KU
November 25, 2017
Loved the story. Can't wait for the next book
November 28, 2017
I loved everything about this book, beginning with the very fitting title. It was deep emotionally. It will make you think about what your eyes, facial expressions, and body language say about you and others. It explores emotions, feelings, forgiveness, trust, and relationships. I couldn't put it down. Stoney was my favorite character. He had so many setbacks, but he rose above them to be a better person. He never gave up (except somewhat emotionally). I loved his dry humor and his intensity. You will laugh, cry, and sigh. Appropriate for older teens on up. I was glad it was a clean read. The mc's live together, but they aren't intimate. There is only kissing. Quite a few typos. I would probably read this one again. Can't wait for the second book either. I received this book in exchange for an honest review.
November 7, 2017
I didn’t want to put this book down.
I enjoyed the authors style of writing & I really appreciate that, despite the fact that due to circumstances the two main characters end up living together for the majority of the book, this is a clean book. Other than some kissing nothing else happens. Stony is the perfect gentleman. And I love how well Spencer understands him. I really felt for her situation at the end when Stony’s ex comes back onto the scene. I’m rather baffled at how she managed to get herself into the situation with Finn & becoming stranded in the first place with no phone/purse etc. I know as the reader we can see how things are going/what to expect so we reason this away, but there is still that “oh, come on” moment when I can’t believe a smart woman does something so naive. I would hope that this is not something that happened in real life that the author is drawing from. Of course, without this the story would have been much harder for the author to write so I just pushed forward with the reading & as I said, I couldn’t put it down until I was finished.
I am a little disappointed by the fact that the reason for Stony never smiling is never explained but I love all the humorous interchanges between him & Spencer. Perhaps in one of the sequels there may be some closure around this. Regardless I’m looking forward to hearing more about Shay’s story, so I’ll definitely be looking up “Hothouse Flower”, as well as Mia’s story “Jailbird”.
Overall an sweet, enjoyable, clean read. I don’t think you will be disappointed.
I received my eBook copy free in exchange for an honest review.
I enjoyed the authors style of writing & I really appreciate that, despite the fact that due to circumstances the two main characters end up living together for the majority of the book, this is a clean book. Other than some kissing nothing else happens. Stony is the perfect gentleman. And I love how well Spencer understands him. I really felt for her situation at the end when Stony’s ex comes back onto the scene. I’m rather baffled at how she managed to get herself into the situation with Finn & becoming stranded in the first place with no phone/purse etc. I know as the reader we can see how things are going/what to expect so we reason this away, but there is still that “oh, come on” moment when I can’t believe a smart woman does something so naive. I would hope that this is not something that happened in real life that the author is drawing from. Of course, without this the story would have been much harder for the author to write so I just pushed forward with the reading & as I said, I couldn’t put it down until I was finished.
I am a little disappointed by the fact that the reason for Stony never smiling is never explained but I love all the humorous interchanges between him & Spencer. Perhaps in one of the sequels there may be some closure around this. Regardless I’m looking forward to hearing more about Shay’s story, so I’ll definitely be looking up “Hothouse Flower”, as well as Mia’s story “Jailbird”.
Overall an sweet, enjoyable, clean read. I don’t think you will be disappointed.
I received my eBook copy free in exchange for an honest review.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
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