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The Calm Within
When you are lucky enough to find love, take it in both hands and hold onto it like it’s your lifeline.
Don’t let go.
Don’t let it slip through your fingers.
My name is Kinsley Carmichael. I’m one of the fortunate ones, I found my true love.
I experienced it, felt it, tasted it.
He was my best friend, my soul-mate.
Life without him would be incomplete.
So what happens when that love is taken away?
Is it possible to come back from something like that?
Is it possible to want to move on?
Can a person be granted more than one chance of an all-consuming love in one lifetime?
I’m not sure, and I don’t know if I have the strength to find out.
This is my story… in all of its tragic glory.
Don’t let go.
Don’t let it slip through your fingers.
My name is Kinsley Carmichael. I’m one of the fortunate ones, I found my true love.
I experienced it, felt it, tasted it.
He was my best friend, my soul-mate.
Life without him would be incomplete.
So what happens when that love is taken away?
Is it possible to come back from something like that?
Is it possible to want to move on?
Can a person be granted more than one chance of an all-consuming love in one lifetime?
I’m not sure, and I don’t know if I have the strength to find out.
This is my story… in all of its tragic glory.
364 pages, Paperback
Published April 19, 2018
45 people are currently reading
183 people want to read
About the author
Crystal A. Blanton
1 book43 followersCrystal A Blanton lives in the Show Me State with her sarcastic, loving husband of fifteen years and two crazy, wild sons. She has a love for reading, writing, warm weather, Zero Ultra Monster Energy drinks, massages, traveling, spending time with her family and friends, writing in third person, and chocolate; in no particular order!
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 42 reviews
July 15, 2018
★ 3.5 stars!! ★
“What if our broken pieces are meant to fit together? Mine with yours, yours with mine. Intertwined with each other to make us complete. Make us whole.”
July 23, 2018
Já li uns 8 livros assim esse ano. Muda só os nomes dos personagens. Quem sabe se fosse o primeiro que lesse não daria essa nota...
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March 29, 2020🎁 FREE on Amazon today (3/29/2020)! 🎁
April 22, 2018
This is the first book i have read by Crystal Blanton and definitely not my last. This book was a whirlwind of emotions for me. I laughed, cried, felt hope and joy along with sadness and loss. This story filled my heart with such love and then sucked it dry and shattered it only to pick up the pieces and put the puzzle of my heart back together. That is how amazing Crystal Blanton is as an author. This story flowed perfectly and the characters where pieced perfectly throughout the book. Loved it.
May 22, 2019
This is one of the best books I've read so far in 2019! I love the sweet romance vibes which intermingle with a ton and a half of angst <3 It's so different, so gut-wrenching, and so hard to put down! This girl is gonna be a rock star in the writing world one day!
View my FULL review at https://kalisbookreviews.com/the-calm...
WARNING: Some small spoilers ahead ;)
View my FULL review at https://kalisbookreviews.com/the-calm...
WARNING: Some small spoilers ahead ;)
June 5, 2019
First off I want to say that I didn't want to like this book! I was gutted during the first part, reading how Kinsley and Ryker's love was born from this beautiful childhood friendship into something that was beyond pure and then the unthinkable happened. I didn't want to like it as big fat tears ran down my face and my heart fissured in my chest. I didn't want to like it when Caleb came in the picture and began to make his own place in the picture. I didn't want to like it, but oh how I did. This was a beautiful story of first love, broken hearts and finding your inner strength all in one. I loved little Elliot and adored the relationship him and Caleb built together. I loved seeing glimpses of young Ryker and knowing how his character struggled but overcame, even at such a young age. And then with Kinsley, oh my her character was really an inspiration! I loved how she tried to be strong, but she's only human and let that devastation roll through her but then picked herself back up for her baby. Life is so incredibly hard, but if we didn't go through the bad, we wouldn't know the good that awaits us on the other side. Great book!!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 23, 2018
The Calm Within by Crystal A Blanton
Absofreakinlutely 5 Star
Let me start off with Wow, I mean WOWZA! Love Love Love LOVED this book. This book was everything to me. I can’t count how many times I died in this book. I wasn’t half way through before I was texting a friend screaming that I couldn’t wait for her to just die with this book. (My friend totally gets me).
This was such a wonderful story of true pure love. The couple could be described as nothing other than soulmates. From the start as a child the young boy could recognize the importance that this girl had on his life, and what a life he had, from one extreme to the next.
We see the couple again as young teenagers yet life has a way of making them grow up faster than most. I can’t say too much without giving details away, but I can say that this book was a freakin rollercoaster ride and I LOVED EVERY SECOND OF IT! Well there was some parts where I had to stop reading before my blood pressure shot through the roof from keeping all of my extreme emotions in and not waking up the household. Hence the first time I had to text my friend…. then I had to text another and I look forward to hearing about her impending rollercoaster ride.
This book will end you and yet it will bring you so much light.
Amazing job with this book, and I look forward to following this author with anything more she has to break me with.
B2B - Amy
Absofreakinlutely 5 Star
Let me start off with Wow, I mean WOWZA! Love Love Love LOVED this book. This book was everything to me. I can’t count how many times I died in this book. I wasn’t half way through before I was texting a friend screaming that I couldn’t wait for her to just die with this book. (My friend totally gets me).
This was such a wonderful story of true pure love. The couple could be described as nothing other than soulmates. From the start as a child the young boy could recognize the importance that this girl had on his life, and what a life he had, from one extreme to the next.
We see the couple again as young teenagers yet life has a way of making them grow up faster than most. I can’t say too much without giving details away, but I can say that this book was a freakin rollercoaster ride and I LOVED EVERY SECOND OF IT! Well there was some parts where I had to stop reading before my blood pressure shot through the roof from keeping all of my extreme emotions in and not waking up the household. Hence the first time I had to text my friend…. then I had to text another and I look forward to hearing about her impending rollercoaster ride.
This book will end you and yet it will bring you so much light.
Amazing job with this book, and I look forward to following this author with anything more she has to break me with.
B2B - Amy
April 19, 2018
“My life has always been spurts of chaos. As soon as you are near, it's serene. You create the calm within.”
What a great debut novel! This one will hit you in all the feels. I can’t wait for more from Crystal.
What a great debut novel! This one will hit you in all the feels. I can’t wait for more from Crystal.
July 23, 2018
enjoyable
March 5, 2021
A captivating debut novel, a must read.
There is nothing I like more than reading work by a debut author. Its like finding a secret garden in all it’s gorgeous splendour.
The Calm Within is no longer a hidden treasure, its a must read.
A heartbreaking, beautiful, and bittersweet novel woven together in all it’s tragic glory. I was taken on a journey that made me laugh, gave me goosebumps, caused my eyes to leak and my heart to soar.
The synopsis tells you it’s about love and loss, but it’s so much more than that, there are twists and turns you will not see coming, and you will not forget.
I don’t want to give away spoilers so instead I’ll leave you with this teaser, it made my heart hitch, and my lips tremble.
“Days you’ll pray for the earth to open up and swallow you whole so you’ll have a little reprieve from the despair you feel. There will also be better days. Days which feel new and breathe life back into your soul. Those are the days’ worth fighting for.”
A captivating debut, I can’t wait to read more from Crystal.
There is nothing I like more than reading work by a debut author. Its like finding a secret garden in all it’s gorgeous splendour.
The Calm Within is no longer a hidden treasure, its a must read.
A heartbreaking, beautiful, and bittersweet novel woven together in all it’s tragic glory. I was taken on a journey that made me laugh, gave me goosebumps, caused my eyes to leak and my heart to soar.
The synopsis tells you it’s about love and loss, but it’s so much more than that, there are twists and turns you will not see coming, and you will not forget.
I don’t want to give away spoilers so instead I’ll leave you with this teaser, it made my heart hitch, and my lips tremble.
“Days you’ll pray for the earth to open up and swallow you whole so you’ll have a little reprieve from the despair you feel. There will also be better days. Days which feel new and breathe life back into your soul. Those are the days’ worth fighting for.”
A captivating debut, I can’t wait to read more from Crystal.
July 2, 2018
Every now and again you come across a book that makes you feel. Makes you feel the pain of the characters. Makes you feel the love without detailing the sex. Makes you feel the emotion and torment that comes from loving and losing , dreams being crushed, good byes, healing, and finally becoming whole. In this story we are taken through so many emotions and it isn't always gentle. Then we feel the gentle touches as the characters are healed, even if that healing comes with tears. This author does an amazing thing in her debut novel, she draws you in and makes you apart of the story. She makes sure her characters invite you in and encourage you to participate in their story. It's a well written story that will have your heart twisting and turning as it mends.
This is a debut novel that needs to be read. I don't know how I was so lucky to find this author but I am so happy I did. This story is one that will touch your heart and warm you up while the love flows around you and put you in your happy place when it ends. And yea when I got to the end I wanted more.
This is a debut novel that needs to be read. I don't know how I was so lucky to find this author but I am so happy I did. This story is one that will touch your heart and warm you up while the love flows around you and put you in your happy place when it ends. And yea when I got to the end I wanted more.
May 3, 2018
This book. Holy ugly cry. So many feels. I can’t believe this is the authors debut.
Can’t wait to read more for this author.
Can’t wait to read more for this author.
Read
April 23, 2018If you’re looking for a book that involves deep friendship, young romance, heartache, and redemptive love, The Calm Within will successfully tug on your heartstrings and keep you reading. The emotion is genuine, and I found myself both hurting and rejoicing along with the characters’ trials and victories. Kinsley made a sweet heroine that had me rooting for her happy ending, and Elliot was a sweet addition who immediately won over my heart. Without spoiling anything, a revelation occurs about 3/4 of the way in that I couldn’t have guessed myself. It added an underlying layer of emotion that had me questioning everything I felt for these characters.
Overall, Crystal’s vivid writing style and this touching story had me turning the pages to find out what happens, and my heart was happy with the resolution.
“I let him love me whole.” —Swoon!
Overall, Crystal’s vivid writing style and this touching story had me turning the pages to find out what happens, and my heart was happy with the resolution.
“I let him love me whole.” —Swoon!
June 10, 2021
Loved every second of this heart breaking story.
January 30, 2020
This was a hot steamy erotic romance story perfect for a quick afternoon read.
A great heart pounding read. The story was very well written with great characters. It drew me in and I had it finished in one sitting. I would highly recommend this read.
A great heart pounding read. The story was very well written with great characters. It drew me in and I had it finished in one sitting. I would highly recommend this read.
July 13, 2018
This book was great. I really enjoyed it, though it is really tragic and didn't go the way I wanted.
Ryker and Kinsley have such a good relationship. From best friends to lovers, their love is one that grew over time. It even created a baby.
But one night changed everything. And suddenly, Ryker is no longer there. Kinsley has to do things on her own. Has to raise this baby on her own. And she never wants to fall in love again. But there's someone who is hoping to change her mind.
The story was great and I could really feel the love between Ryker and Kinsley. I wanted them to be together forever. They were just so good together.
It just wasn't a five star read for me. I feel that the writer could've done more with this, could've put more into this book.
I was surprised that there was a child in this book. That's my book pet peeve, babies are. There was nothing in the description about it and I was so angry. But I pushed on and I'm glad that I did because Elliot is a ball of fun and such great comic relief.
Ryker and Kinsley have such a good relationship. From best friends to lovers, their love is one that grew over time. It even created a baby.
But one night changed everything. And suddenly, Ryker is no longer there. Kinsley has to do things on her own. Has to raise this baby on her own. And she never wants to fall in love again. But there's someone who is hoping to change her mind.
The story was great and I could really feel the love between Ryker and Kinsley. I wanted them to be together forever. They were just so good together.
It just wasn't a five star read for me. I feel that the writer could've done more with this, could've put more into this book.
I was surprised that there was a child in this book. That's my book pet peeve, babies are. There was nothing in the description about it and I was so angry. But I pushed on and I'm glad that I did because Elliot is a ball of fun and such great comic relief.
April 19, 2018
Wow! Let me start with, I can not believe that this is your first book.
This story was unexpected and complex in a wonderful way.
The twists and turns and the roller coaster of emotions was an crazy ride!
This story is about love, loss and the journey to happiness in life.
You can learn to move on with your life, or live in the past. Kinsley Carmichael had a decision to make regarding her life and happiness. Question is, will she make the right choice? The choice of keeping the past or moving forward will take you on a ride that you will no doubt be on the edge of your seat feeling all the feels.
I don't want to give any spoilers, you need to go in blind. Ride the ride and take all of your emotions with you!
Congrats on your debut novel, it was a wonderful story that I think that everyone should read.
This story was unexpected and complex in a wonderful way.
The twists and turns and the roller coaster of emotions was an crazy ride!
This story is about love, loss and the journey to happiness in life.
You can learn to move on with your life, or live in the past. Kinsley Carmichael had a decision to make regarding her life and happiness. Question is, will she make the right choice? The choice of keeping the past or moving forward will take you on a ride that you will no doubt be on the edge of your seat feeling all the feels.
I don't want to give any spoilers, you need to go in blind. Ride the ride and take all of your emotions with you!
Congrats on your debut novel, it was a wonderful story that I think that everyone should read.
May 6, 2018
Five incredible stars!
Wow! I’m totally blown away by this book! I haven’t read something so intensely emotional and beautiful in a long time! This is one of those books that stay with you long after you’ve finished reading! The Calm Within is very well written with such strong character development. The author has accomplished so much in her debut novel! I can’t wait to read more from Ms. Blanton!
I definitely recommend this book! You will not be disappointed! Have some tissues ready! I experienced every emotion while reading! The tears, smiles and swoon worthy moments are all worth it! Just get this book! You’ll love it!!!
Wow! I’m totally blown away by this book! I haven’t read something so intensely emotional and beautiful in a long time! This is one of those books that stay with you long after you’ve finished reading! The Calm Within is very well written with such strong character development. The author has accomplished so much in her debut novel! I can’t wait to read more from Ms. Blanton!
I definitely recommend this book! You will not be disappointed! Have some tissues ready! I experienced every emotion while reading! The tears, smiles and swoon worthy moments are all worth it! Just get this book! You’ll love it!!!
July 11, 2018
Wow, this story just blew me away! I cannot believe that this is a debut, as this talented author is certainly one to watch out for in the future. I will certainly be adding her to my 1-click and favourites lists. This story is an emotional rollercoaster journey from beginning to end. This is a well written flawless read, which is an addictive page turner. This story is intense, raw, and gritty, with twists and suspense, as well as loss, hope, love, and an all round powerful storyline. I for one cannot wait to read more from this author and in my opinion; this novel is worth so much more than the 5 stars allowed!!
July 20, 2018
*Received an Arc in exchange for an honest review*
This is my first book by this author and it was such an emotional ride. Ryker and Kinsley are best friends who fall in love and get married and eventually have a baby, but then one day Ryker isn't there anymore and Kinsley has to raise the baby all by herself. She also decides never to fall in love again. Hopefully, someone can change her mind.
This is my first book by this author and it was such an emotional ride. Ryker and Kinsley are best friends who fall in love and get married and eventually have a baby, but then one day Ryker isn't there anymore and Kinsley has to raise the baby all by herself. She also decides never to fall in love again. Hopefully, someone can change her mind.
April 23, 2018
I can’t believe this is your debut novel! This book. Oh my! It is a well written tale that captivates you and leaves you wanting more. There were many times I was wiping away tears as I read this. Great read!!!
Also, favorite line....”Heath is legit.” 😉
Also, favorite line....”Heath is legit.” 😉
June 21, 2018
I enjoyed this book very much. The writing is well done and the characters are complex. I felt a far greater connection to each character in the first half of the story that was lost in the second half for me. Very realist and enjoyable book.
July 30, 2018
Crystal Blanton crushed me with this story and I loved it. She took me on a journey through all of the emotions. The Calm Within has a story line that I got lost in. The characters have a depth that had me by the heart. I can't wait for more from the author.
February 15, 2019
This book was great. It kept me guessing about little things and some big things throughout. While I did figure there would be a HEA it was definitely not the one I pictured in any way. I'll have to read more by this author.
February 21, 2022
Amazing!!!
This book definitely tugs on your heart both good and bad. This books so well written. Its definitely a tear jerking book to read. It has heartache and loss of loved ones. It's definitely worth the read though.
This book definitely tugs on your heart both good and bad. This books so well written. Its definitely a tear jerking book to read. It has heartache and loss of loved ones. It's definitely worth the read though.
September 27, 2022
Caleb
The love me whole story line was fantastic the wait to find out what happened to Ryker killed me made me want to skip ahead but then I would have missed it definitely a great read!
The love me whole story line was fantastic the wait to find out what happened to Ryker killed me made me want to skip ahead but then I would have missed it definitely a great read!
April 30, 2018
What a ride, this was such a great book. It had me feeling all of the emotions. Page after page I did not want to put it down until it was finished. I can’t wait to read more by her.
May 17, 2018
This was an amazing book. It was gut wrenching and beautiful at the same time. I would have liked it more if the book slowed down. I craved more details, and a slower burn.
January 8, 2019
Hard to believe this is a debut novel. A book that makes you feel literally every single emotion is a book worth reading. Can’t wait to read more from this author.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 42 reviews