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Before You #3

Empty Before You

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Betrayed by one of her own, Gwen Taylor has no choice but to go into hiding. Or, at the very least, to make it seem like she is.


Cutting off all ties to the people she has come to depend on, Gwen isolates herself in an effort to protect them. But, what happens when they start believing that this is for real? When even Colt, the man who she was falling for, thinks the worst of her?


Desperate to shield everyone from her past, Gwen prepares for the final battle, the one that she’s been running away from all her life. For the ultimate confrontation with Robert.


But, even as she sets her mind on facing him, can she salvage the damage she’s done to her new family? To Colt? Or will she sink into the void, becoming empty and hollow, turning into what she fears the her father.

314 pages, ebook

Published December 1, 2017

1 person is currently reading
67 people want to read

About the author

Claire Scott

3 books139 followers
First and foremost, I am a reader. I’ve been in love with reading since I was a child. Ever since I read Pride and Prejudice for the first time, when I was probably too young to even understand what it was really about. For me the true beauty of a book comes from re-discovering it. I absolutely love re-reading books and seeing if I am the same person I was when I first read them, and if I can discover some hidden secret that was previously concealed from me. My love of writing stems from this love of reading, and I would truly be nowhere without it. Every day I meet new people and rediscover old ones, I learn about cultures and societies I never knew about. And to be able to create my own ones, to write the world as I imagine it is what drives me. To have no restrictions but my imagination. In particular, I love writing about complex and strong women.

If you have any questions or feedback, or just want to say hello, please email clairescottauthor@gmail.com.

You can also find me on instagram: @readingromance

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Displaying 1 - 30 of 33 reviews
Profile Image for ➦Paulette .
1,155 reviews304 followers
November 29, 2017


Title: ➳ ❤ Empty Before You
Series ➳ Before You #3
Author: ➳ Claire Scott


ღ We find ourselves back in the small town of Beauforde For the final installment. I know that I desperately wanted get my hands on this last installment, but I lied – I really don’t want to let Gwen go!!! I know – well anyways this book picked up right off where the last book ended.

♥●• Gwen worst fear had come to pass. It was ironic. Her dream was finally possible after years of scrimping & saving all the money she earned from her two jobs but, in an instant, everything had gone down the drain or has it?

►Gwen never thought she become so depend on anyone again after what happen to Sawyer, but she was wrong once again

♥●• Gwen has been slowly becoming more comfortable with Colt, & trying to open up to him as best she can, & then all of a sudden everything is turned upside down.

♥●• Gwen is told cut all ties with all people who are important to her Colt, Heather & Gabe. She also told to basically give up her dreams

► Gwen doesn’t know who else has betrayed her. Will Gwen ever be able to trust anyone again?

💞. There are few more twists & turn to this story- Will Gwen survive her father’s vengeance?

💞. If you haven’t notice before there is more than one broken soul in this story, the big question will be can they all heal together?

➦📚 Hope you enjoy this read & also always keep in mind this is just my opinion
📚 Should be read in order

1:-Alone Before You
2- Forsaken Before You
3-Empty Before You❤💕

Claire Scott give us a sneak peek of her upcoming book- (Duty Bound)
I can’t wait to read Jane Hanson story


➦ 💕 would I recommend this book: Hell Yes.
➦ would I recommend this series : Hell Yes.

➦ 💕 I voluntarily reviewed an Advance Reader copy of this book.in exchange for my honest review of it. 💕
💕 . .**This has not influenced my review.* ** 💕

💕 ✎Paulette Review❤💕
Profile Image for Snow.
2,320 reviews732 followers
January 18, 2018
What a great, fulfilling conclusion to this trilogy!

It's the final countdown for our heroine to face up her demons from the past...and now that the time is near, she needs a prep, she needs a boost and she needs to keep the people she started to care about...
I swear, me running wasn’t me running. It was me getting ready to fight.

And even though she did encounter her nemesis of a father on her own, it took the much more of an outer power of love and strength she got from the man who gave her space to find herself
I’ll give you the space you need, but don’t think I’m happy about this. You said before that you were tryin’ to protect me, but babe, I need to do the same for you.

but he also gave her hope and strength to free herself as he's providing a safety net for her to fall back on in order to let herself go and give chance at love with this dominant, powerful but nurturing alpha of a man.
I know that you can hold your own, babe. You’re strong as fuck. That’s one of the reason’s I’m crazy about you.”
I searched his eyes, looking for the truth, and saw in them anger mixed with love.
“And part of that is I have to let you be you. But, Gwen,” he said, his voice gruff, “what you did was wrong. You can’t handle it alone anymore.”
Listening to his tender words, my lower lip trembled. I didn’t want to handle it myself. I wanted to work things through together.
“’Cause, Gwen Taylor,” he fiercely said, “you’re mine.



*thumb up* 👍

Thank you, Claire, for my ARC

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Profile Image for K.
527 reviews77 followers
November 25, 2017
4.5 Stars!!

This book is the third and last book in the Before You Trilogy!
It is 1st person, Gwen's point of view until the very end where it is Colt's point of view.

This book picks up right where the second book leave off! Gwen has made the decision to leave everyone she loves in order to protect them from her father. Dan has convinced her that if she moves out of Heather's house and leaves Colt, then he will bring her father to them, harming not only Gwen but all of her friends.

Gwen decides to move into a motel and separate herself from Heather and Colt. This was so sad to read. Gwen has been alone almost all of her life, and after she has finally been accepted by these wonderful people...she has to leave them.

Gwen seeks out a PI, who is Jane's brother. He helps her track down her father and find out if he is coming to find her. After a week in the motel and laying low, Gwen tries to tell Colt what is really happening before one of his matches, but they get distracted as always and ended up getting intimate.

After struggling with trying to protect herself but also pushing everyone away, Gwen realizes she needs to stand up to her father and work with her friends as a team and defeat Robert.

I will not spoil the ending, but Gwen was a total badass towards the end of the book. Her fighting skills were on point!!! And the end of the book was just so satisfying and tied everything together!!

The only reason why I gave this book a 4.5 is because Colt's language was kinda hard to read and understand because he spoke in little fragments which was completely unlike Gwen's speech.

Overall this was a fantastic ending to the trilogy and readers should definitely check out these books if they love contemporary romance!
Profile Image for Cyndi.
2,448 reviews120 followers
November 21, 2017
Lord have mercy, this was a great ending! Gwen is a strong heroine! The kind I love!
I was so frightened for her a few times, but she always found the courage to succeed. And Colt is her perfect match. She would need some as strong as she is.
Excellent writing! Thank you so much, Claire for sending this book to me! I was so excited to read Gwen’s story and you did not disappoint! 😁
Can’t wait to read Jane’s story. Ever since she was introduced I’ve been wanting more.
Profile Image for Hanne.
661 reviews72 followers
December 23, 2017
Empty Before You is the amazing conclusion to Gwen and Colt’s love story. This book starts where Forsaken Before You ended and I couldn’t start this book fast enough. I loved all three books, but this one is my favorite. It was everything I hoped it would be and more. There was suspense, twists, turns, hot moments and sweet moments. The epilogue was the perfect ending to Colt and Gwen’s love story. Some part of it was told from Colt’s point of view. It was amazing to finally get inside his head and I loved reading his thoughts about some important moments of their love story.

I adore Gwen and Colt. Gwen is strong, independent, determined and talented. I admire her strength. I’m so glad that she has friends and a home. She can finally settle down. Gwen can enjoy her life again and fulfill her dreams. Colt is the perfect man for her. He’s a sweetheart. He’s protective, reliable, strong and loving. Colt trusts Gwen. He would do anything for her. Colt and Gwen are so good together. They are a strong, solid, hot and beautiful couple. I’m so glad that they have gotten their happily ever after.

I know I also said it in my reviews about the previous books, but I really love the secondary characters. Gwen and Colt have amazing friends. They are caring, reliable, sweet and supportive. I’m so happy that one of the secondary characters will get her own book. I can’t wait to know her story and meet the rich man whom will steal her (and probably my) heart.

-- My honest review is based on an advanced reader copy of this book. --
Profile Image for Missy's Book Obsession.
183 reviews125 followers
December 10, 2017
This is the third and final book in the triology and I absolutely loved it!!!! The ending was great and I am so happy the got their HEA. Can't wait for the next series:)
ARC provided by the author for an honest review.
Profile Image for Allyson.
493 reviews48 followers
November 22, 2017
Ohhh what a great way to end this series. I loved everyone of these books and especially this one. Gwen finally coming into her own and letting go of the guilt and hatred she grew up with. Opening herself up more to her friends and especially Colt ( loved him!! ). I also loved the fact that she was the one who confronted her worse enemy. Thank you Claire for letting me read these books oh and I am so freaking excited for Jane's story !!!
Profile Image for Linda Strong.
3,878 reviews1,706 followers
November 19, 2017
4.5 Stars

This is the 3rd in a trilogy that absolutely must be read in order.

ALONE BEFORE YOU (1)
FORSAKEN BEFORE YOU (2)
EMPTY BEFORE YOU (3)

Gwen Taylor has been running from her father for years. He' s in prison for killing her brother and he has sworn vengeance because Gwen testified against him. She's been in hiding and has started taking college courses hopefully to make her dream come true as an artist.

She's made friends here, more like family and she's met a man that she can love. But no one knows her background, her secrets.

She's received notice from someone in this circle of friends, someone who tells her that her father has been released from prison and he's coming for her.

What does she do ... run once again and leaving her new life behind? She's done it before and can do it again. Or does she stay and fight for what she wants? Will her friends and lover understand or will they turn their backs on her?

Because it is Erotica Romance there is an abundance of hot, sweaty intimate moments in graphic detail, as well as very adult language. The scenes, while explicit, are there for the purpose of character development.

It's not for everyone, but if you enjoy erotica, you will love this one and the entire series. It's well written with characters that stand out.

Many thanks to the author who provided an advance digital copy. Opinions expressed here are unbiased and entirely my own.
Profile Image for Court.
418 reviews50 followers
November 24, 2017

First person, final installment in Before You series. (Release Dec 1, 2017)
Book 1, Alone Before You
Book 2, Forsaken Before You


Oh man, my spirit fingers are in full force right now. I just LOVE when a villain finally gets got. What a finale to this trilogy!


Our heroine, Gwen is a bonafied badass. No joke. And I was so thrilled at the result of this story - how her whole newfound family came together for the greater purpose and never gave up on her after she's lived soooo long thinking that she'd never have the love of family ever again. Heart eyes forever, y'all.


And don't even get me started on Colt. Dude is a dominant cinnamon roll. He's genuinely caring toward her issues and wants to protect her while also banging her into next week. I'd like 3 of him, please.

I so enjoyed this series. Thank you so much to Claire for my ARC! You the bomb, and I'm continually super impressed with your writing.

Definitely recommend this for lovers of dark romance, suspense. Had me hooked from book one.

Till next time cuties ;)!
Profile Image for Myla.
640 reviews128 followers
December 1, 2017


WOW! I couldn't ask for a better conclusion to this amazing series.

After that cliffy book 2, finally, our feisty, bad-ass heroine Gwen is making a stand to the people who continue to hunt her for things she didn't do. At first, she thought of alienating herself once again to Heather and to the man who rocks her world, Cole in order to protect them but Gwen realized they deserve to know the truth. And when they learned what's going on, they give their support to her wholeheartedly. Equipt with love and support, Gwen carry on with her plan. Will she be able to succeed and be free from being hunted?

Empty Before you give me all the feels of a great read from beginning to end. The continuity of each book was tightly woven that it moves flawlessly from scene to scene. It's just wonderful to discover Claire Scott writing this year and I'm looking forward to reading more of her upcoming books. A highly recommended series!

Note: ARC was generously provided by the author for my honest review.
Profile Image for Anie.
387 reviews31 followers
December 16, 2017
A fulfilling end to the trilogy!
I’m finally getting around to reviewing this, and I have mixed feelings (in the best possible way): happiness for Gwen and Colt but sadness that their story is over for us readers.

There are twists and turns and overall this one was delightfully action packed. Gwen is a strong woman in more ways than one and I’m proud of her for pulling through.
Profile Image for Daniela.
1,180 reviews
March 14, 2018
Good conclusion to the series. The best part was Gwen finally finding herself completely and finally allowing herself to love and care for others. The scenes with her father were a little "superhero" like but it was good and quite frankly her father got off too easy for me. It was good to get Colt's POV. Glad to see there is a book about Jane and Lucas coming - both characters were intriguing.
Profile Image for Cass (cass_readsromance).
441 reviews77 followers
January 3, 2018
Received a copy of this book, in exchange for a an honest review. Thank you to Claire Scott for allowing me to read this series. I really enjoyed this series. For the most part, it was an easy and fast series to read until the end. I found that this book took me a little longer to read, it wasn't because it was that long compared to the others, I just felt like I keep putting this book a lot. I really loved all the characters Gwen. She was just so strong, despite what had happened to her. Gwen and Colt were really good together. Gwen really needed someone like Colt, to learn how to open up to more people with her feelings and everything. Colt was my favorite character throughout this series. He was just amazing for Gwen and he was just there for her. Even when Gwen didn't want to really open up to him, she still did, because Colt showed her how great she is and how she deserved to be cared for.
Profile Image for Jenny.
2,263 reviews72 followers
November 23, 2017
Empty Before You, is book three of the trilogy Before You by Claire Scott. Gwen Taylor thought that she could start to live again without worrying about her father finding her. However, this was not the case. One afternoon Gwen was out with her friends Heather and Colt when Daniel friend of Colton Underwood told her he was working for her father and must leave town. The readers of Empty Before You will follow the twist and turns to see what happens to Gwen. Also, the readers of Empty Before You will love the ending of this book.

I love reading Empty Before You, and it was a great book to finish this trilogy. Claire Scott finished this Trilogy wonderfully. I am impressed with the way Claire Scott portrays Cabe and Colton as strong dominant males but able to ensure their partners achieve their dreams. Also, I like that Claire Scott highlights her female characters as strong and independent but can twist their fingers around their more dominant partners. For me, an excellent five-star book is when I forget to do the things I should be doing and sit and read instead. Claire Scott does this amazingly well.

The readers of Empty Before You will see what the consequences of family violence for everyone who are involved. Also, the readers will start to see the work involved in running a small business. Empty Before You, highlights for the readers the work involved in becoming a great artist and illustrator.

Thanks to the Author for my free ARC for an honest review of this book. I recommend this book.
91 reviews21 followers
November 24, 2017
What an amazing conclusion to this wonderful series! I enjoyed this one very much, and I loved the heroine very much (a must for me), she was strong and complex, and I hope to see much more from this author!
Profile Image for Lori Hammons.
2,817 reviews27 followers
May 14, 2018
When Gwen has her stand-off with her father, and it's 3 to one. That can't be good. Colt, Heather and the gang try to help her and finally did, in the best way possible. I love this series and highly recommend it.
Profile Image for Candy.
408 reviews38 followers
January 19, 2018
In the conclusion to the Before You trilogy, Gwen has to face down her inner demons & confront her past so that she can have a future. She finds that she is finally not alone & with the help of her friends she's becomes a stronger person & is ready to meet her Father head-on & end the sick story that has played out between them. This is a very good ending to the series. Claire Scott did a beautiful job bring these characters full circle & giving Gwen her HEA. I very much look forward to readying her next story that continues the journey with one of the characters from this book. I would recommend this trilogy to anyone wanting to read about surviving one's past & coming out the other side a stronger person.

I voluntarily reviewed an Advanced Reader's Copy of this book.
Profile Image for Taylor.
48 reviews15 followers
December 15, 2017
“Aww, you guys are so cute,” Heather said.

Huh, Heather got the best word to describe Colt and Gwen. They're really cute together you'll find yourself smiling everytime they're together. I don't know how Claire Scott did it but she can make the readers fall in love with her characters.

description

Out of the three books in the series, this is the best. Yeah, I know, they're not stand alones but I can't help but judge each one of them. On the first book, it lacks romance, well, say no more! Empty Before You is full of romance. I actually think I fell in love with Cole along the series. I mean, he's really good from the start but he's a dream man on this book. You'll seriously crave more of him. I do, so I'm gonna get myself a Cole.

That part though, when she was kidnapped, it was kinda unbelievable. I mean, yeah, she had self defense lessons from Cole, but still, one against three? Not to mention the two are guys. How strong was she???

And oh, I know what you're thinking, "The cover's not attractive at all." You know what they say, Don't judge the book by it's cover. Yeah, don't. Seriously, this book is good. Highly recommended.
Profile Image for Janee.
2,703 reviews12 followers
May 4, 2020
Gwen comes to terms with her past, but her past is coming back to hunt her. When she gets tired of be blackmailed and given ultimatums she fights back.

I thought this book was sweet. The relationship between Colt and Gwen was a hard battle. Gwen finally got what she deserves. To have a family who loves, and except her.

Great ending for this series.
Profile Image for Michelle Krystel .
2,042 reviews51 followers
November 23, 2017
Arc provided by author for honest review. I am sad to see this series come to an end. I have fallen and loved Colt from the start. And Gwen the girl is so strong after everything I give her so much respect. So grateful she has Colt by her side. I just hope they continue to trust each other. Can't wait for Luca's next!!
Profile Image for Cécile Smits .
1,430 reviews281 followers
November 21, 2017
Thank you Claire! For this beautiful story. For Gwen. And Colt,Heather and Gabe. For showing us how Gwen finally understands how strong she is.That she knows,truelly knows, that she is not alone. That she has a new family that cares. And she needs that as her past is catching up.......This was the perfect ending of Before You and i loved it!
Profile Image for Wanda  Hensley.
95 reviews1 follower
May 16, 2018
This is the final book in the Before You Trilogy. What a conclusion to Gwen and Colt’s story. It picks up where book two left off. So much suspense, oh WOW moments and lots of hot sex. The epilogue was perfect I loved Colt’s inner thoughts. Can’t wait to read about the secondary charters .

I was given a free copy for an honest review ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Profile Image for M.
26 reviews14 followers
November 21, 2017
Really enjoyed the ending to this trilogy. Thanks again Claire. You did really well with these books. Looking forward to Jane’s story.
Profile Image for Lilly.
40 reviews6 followers
November 25, 2017
This book was sent to me I exchange of an honest review

** My full review: bookishheaven.wordpress.com/2017/11/2... **


This is the thirst book in the Before You trilogy and it is told from a single point of view (that of Gwen's)
The last book ended with a cliffhanger and this one conclute Gwen and Colt's story.

It good to see Gwen's walls finally being shattered down slowly when she's around Colt and Heather. She's slowly letting them in and accepting their help and emotions.
I love how heroic and strong Gwen is. Totally owned up to her fears and demons and decided to fight them rather than running away.

The ending is told from Colt's POV and it was the sweetest, I'm telling y'all.
This story has got some Lol-worthy moments along with just the right amount of erotic scenes.

I'm glad I got offered the chance to read this fun great trilogy and review it. Looking forward to reading more of this new author's work.
Profile Image for Kirsten Martin.
34 reviews
March 11, 2018
Great ending to the trilogy

This is the third and final book in the series and I can't say I was disappointed at all! I loved how things progressed and watching Gwen take back her life was amazing to follow! Very glad I got to read this series!
Profile Image for Aaly.
1,358 reviews55 followers
July 15, 2020
Copy of BOOK REVIEW GRAPHIC(13)

review-blog

In this final installment, Gwen is ready to fight back and finally get the life she wanted to live, to settle and no more looking over her shoulder. I have to admit that I was a little wary because I wanted to see the heroine face it and she did.

It was time for Gwen to decide if her past would define her or she was owing it and not letting go. In spite of some lack of transitions in the story when I felt like some parts needed to be more developed between Colt and Gwen, I enjoyed it.

Nonetheless, the author managed to bring out an atmosphere of suspense and tension when Gwen’s ties with her new family (Colt and his friends) were stronger than ever, and she could count on them anytime. The relationship between Colt and Gwen’s also intensified. Patient, honest and loving. Reading to fight her battles, even if she was capable of doing it herself.

As much as I appreciated to see Gwen not pushing people away and standing on her own, I would like to read during this last book Colt’s POV because it would have strengthened the story a lot. Maybe a dual POV. He was such a mystery and seeing him from Gwen’s POV emphasized it.


I could feel the vice tightening as Gwen’s past was revealed. A few twists and turns in this story, putting some great suspense and also driving me crazy. She learned that appearances could be deceiving and the author managed to maintain this tensed atmosphere throughout the story.

I really enjoyed the end with a real closure for Gwen and also an interesting story to come.
Profile Image for *Book*Crazy*.
216 reviews17 followers
December 15, 2017
Thank you Claire for providing me with a ARC :)

First of I have to say all three books in this series were very well written.
I enjoyed all three books very much. Both the lead characters had very strong personalities which kept this book interesting.

It had a prefect ending. Looking forward to the next series by this author.
Profile Image for Natacha Lalande.
150 reviews3 followers
November 24, 2017
To read my full review: https://natachabooksreview.wordpress....

Out of the 3 books of the trilogy, this one is the most intense, suspenseful and dramatic. While i didn’t really tear up while reading the first 2 books, the last one sure had me cry more than once.

I liked the twists in the suspense with the final installment. I got caught by surprised, and i’m glad it did, I love books that has surprises in store for you when you least expect it.

I highly suggest that you grab a copy as soon as it’s available and finish reading the story just like i did. Claire has a great writing style that is modern for the readers of the 21st century.
57 reviews
December 9, 2017
I wish we could see the hea :()
I want more!!!
Profile Image for Ashy Vinu.
11 reviews2 followers
November 19, 2017
Beautiful!!!!!!


Empty before you is the last book in the Before you trilogy.

This book concludes the story of Gwen and Colt. Second book was a cliffhanger.The third book made it more interesting.

I always like a strong woman character and Gwen is one such character. Even though she is mentally strong,she doesn't feel she deserves to be happy because of her past.The third book shows how she accepts the fact that she has the right to be happy and face her demons. To feel like that a woman needs a guy who can help her see this and Colt is that exact guy.


Thank you Claire for giving me the chance to review your book before release. I am really honored!!!!!

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