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Living Heartwood #1
The Darkest Part
Contemporary Romance intended for adult audiences. Told from dual point of view, this novel can be read as a standalone or as part of the Living Heartwood series.
Pressing the boundaries of both the psyche and the heart, Sam and Holden embark on a dangerous journey that will test the limits of love.
Sam Wintry's life used to be almost perfect. She was engaged to her childhood best friend and high school sweetheart, Tyler Marks, planning an amazing cross-country honeymoon during her college break. But after a hit-and-run leaves her in ruin, she begins seeing Tyler's fractured, ghostly presence, and her family believes she's losing her mind. Not until she completes their journey, stopping along the way to scatter Tyler's remains, will Tyler be able cross over. Only...is Sam ready for him to leave her?
When the black sheep of the Marks' family, Holden Marks, returns to check on Tyler's case, Sam convinces him to give her his brother's ashes. Despite their shaky history, she needs him...plus, he owes it to Sam and his brother. What she doesn't count on is Holden's relentlessness to go on the trip.
On the road, Holden realizes just how unhinged Sam has become. Dealing with her psychosis forces him to confront his dark past, making it harder to keep secrets hidden that should remain buried. Especially from Sam, the only woman he's ever loved. And as Sam starts to unravel the truth, she begins to question if the brother she's unwillingly falling for again is in an even darker place than her.
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First published August 6, 2013
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Trisha Wolfe
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USA Today bestselling romantic thriller author. From an early age, Trisha Wolfe dreamed up fictional worlds and characters and was accused of talking to herself. Today, she lives in South Carolina with her family and writes full time, using her fictional worlds as an excuse to continue talking to herself.
http://amazon.com/author/trishawolfe
Visit My Facebook Page
https://www.facebook.com/trishawolfea...
Visit My Facebook Readers Group: The Lair
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Visit My Website
http://TrishaWolfe.com
Sign Up For My VIP List
http://bit.ly/36HEPtP
USA Today bestselling romantic thriller author. From an early age, Trisha Wolfe dreamed up fictional worlds and characters and was accused of talking to herself. Today, she lives in South Carolina with her family and writes full time, using her fictional worlds as an excuse to continue talking to herself.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 189 reviews
November 30, 2014
3.5-4 stars!
I’ve been in a book funk lately and since none of the recently released books were appealing to me at the moment, I dug deep into my TBR list and found this little gem. The blurb really grabbed my attention: a mentally disturbed heroine who had not one but two guys in love with her, plus…they’re brothers?! Add in a ghost, a road trip, a mystery, and a lovely second chance romance and I pretty much decided that this would be my next read. Both the plot and writing were compelling and kept my attention from the very beginning to the very end and the sexual tension between the hero and heroine crackled in the air. I did, however, have some issues, like the timeline switching back and forth between past and present I wasn’t too fond of, and the ending along with the suspense aspect was a little anticlimactic but when taken as a whole, this story is a solid NA romance that I’m glad I picked up.
Sam Wintry had the perfect life: she was engaged to her childhood best friend and sweetheart Tyler Marks, settled in college, and getting ready for the road trip of her life with Tyler. All that changed when he’s killed in a hit and run and Sam’s left shattered and barely able to pick up the pieces. All her life she’s relied on Tyler: first as friends, and then when they were together, as a couple and now with him gone, she struggles with self-identity. In fact, her mind is so fragile she believes she can see Tyler’s ghost lingering on Earth and hear his voice. Her parents, friends, and doctor all are convinced she’s mentally unstable and put her on meds to stabilize her, but Sam knows she’s not crazy. She’s not lying. And she can see Tyler. See that her fiancé valued the road trip they were supposed to go on. In an impulsive gesture, Sam decides to go on the road trip and scatter his ashes at major checkpoints Tyler would’ve liked. Her plan goes off without a hitch, except for one thing. Holden Marks is back, and he’s here to stay and go with Sam no matter what.
Holden is Tyler’s older brother and the black sheep of the family. What’s gradually revealed is that Sam and Holden had a past before she was involved with Tyler, a past that includes infatuation, love, and heartbreak. For years, Sam and Holden’s relationship is strained but with Sam going on a road trip with his brother’s ashes, Holden insists on going with her to honor him, to protect her, and to solve the mystery he’s been trying to do for a while now: find the bastard responsible for the hit and run.
There is absolutely NO cheating or a love triangle. The relationship timeline between the three goes in the order of: Sam + Holden, Sam + Tyler, and then Sam + Holden again. Never did I feel like the age gap between Sam and Holden was inappropriate nor did I ever think Tyler was second place. Sam loved both of the Marks boys, but in very, very different ways and at different times of her life. Tyler was a true love. But Holden was her first love. And from early on, it was very obvious to me who she belonged with and who she had the deeper connection to.
The first couple of chapters alternated between past and present and since I’m not a fan of that kind of book setup, I was a little disconnected with the story at that time but it didn’t make me lose interest in the overall plot. There is a secondary suspense element weaved into the story and when it all came to light towards the end I was slightly disappointed with how easily all the ends were wrapped up, considering how hard the protagonists were wanting Tyler’s case to be solved for a while now.
This is a book that kept me on my toes and led me down memory lane with all the aspects of teenage life. It’s both a love after loss romance and a second chance romance, two of my favorite kind of love stories combined in one. With so many NA romances out there, it’s really refreshing to read one that’s slightly different from the norm.
The Darkest Part is the first book in the Living Heartwood series but a standalone. There is a slight paranormal aspect as the heroine ‘sees’ her dead fiance’s ghost but other than that this is very much a contemporary story.
I’ve been in a book funk lately and since none of the recently released books were appealing to me at the moment, I dug deep into my TBR list and found this little gem. The blurb really grabbed my attention: a mentally disturbed heroine who had not one but two guys in love with her, plus…they’re brothers?! Add in a ghost, a road trip, a mystery, and a lovely second chance romance and I pretty much decided that this would be my next read. Both the plot and writing were compelling and kept my attention from the very beginning to the very end and the sexual tension between the hero and heroine crackled in the air. I did, however, have some issues, like the timeline switching back and forth between past and present I wasn’t too fond of, and the ending along with the suspense aspect was a little anticlimactic but when taken as a whole, this story is a solid NA romance that I’m glad I picked up.
Sam Wintry had the perfect life: she was engaged to her childhood best friend and sweetheart Tyler Marks, settled in college, and getting ready for the road trip of her life with Tyler. All that changed when he’s killed in a hit and run and Sam’s left shattered and barely able to pick up the pieces. All her life she’s relied on Tyler: first as friends, and then when they were together, as a couple and now with him gone, she struggles with self-identity. In fact, her mind is so fragile she believes she can see Tyler’s ghost lingering on Earth and hear his voice. Her parents, friends, and doctor all are convinced she’s mentally unstable and put her on meds to stabilize her, but Sam knows she’s not crazy. She’s not lying. And she can see Tyler. See that her fiancé valued the road trip they were supposed to go on. In an impulsive gesture, Sam decides to go on the road trip and scatter his ashes at major checkpoints Tyler would’ve liked. Her plan goes off without a hitch, except for one thing. Holden Marks is back, and he’s here to stay and go with Sam no matter what.
Holden is Tyler’s older brother and the black sheep of the family. What’s gradually revealed is that Sam and Holden had a past before she was involved with Tyler, a past that includes infatuation, love, and heartbreak. For years, Sam and Holden’s relationship is strained but with Sam going on a road trip with his brother’s ashes, Holden insists on going with her to honor him, to protect her, and to solve the mystery he’s been trying to do for a while now: find the bastard responsible for the hit and run.
There is absolutely NO cheating or a love triangle. The relationship timeline between the three goes in the order of: Sam + Holden, Sam + Tyler, and then Sam + Holden again. Never did I feel like the age gap between Sam and Holden was inappropriate nor did I ever think Tyler was second place. Sam loved both of the Marks boys, but in very, very different ways and at different times of her life. Tyler was a true love. But Holden was her first love. And from early on, it was very obvious to me who she belonged with and who she had the deeper connection to.
The first couple of chapters alternated between past and present and since I’m not a fan of that kind of book setup, I was a little disconnected with the story at that time but it didn’t make me lose interest in the overall plot. There is a secondary suspense element weaved into the story and when it all came to light towards the end I was slightly disappointed with how easily all the ends were wrapped up, considering how hard the protagonists were wanting Tyler’s case to be solved for a while now.
This is a book that kept me on my toes and led me down memory lane with all the aspects of teenage life. It’s both a love after loss romance and a second chance romance, two of my favorite kind of love stories combined in one. With so many NA romances out there, it’s really refreshing to read one that’s slightly different from the norm.
The Darkest Part is the first book in the Living Heartwood series but a standalone. There is a slight paranormal aspect as the heroine ‘sees’ her dead fiance’s ghost but other than that this is very much a contemporary story.
December 31, 2014
The Darkest Part was a second chance romance full of emotions, passion, and a slowly unraveling mystery. It was an enthralling and haunting read!
Samantha submerges into deep depression and darkness after losing her fiancé, Tyler in a tragic accident. The future she thought she had is forever gone and what’s worse is it seems Tyler’s ghost takes up visiting Sam, unable or unwilling to move on. Or is he? Could it be that overwhelming sadness has fractured Sam’s mental health or is Sam really having ghostly visitations? In order to help both her and Tyler move on, Sam plans to take the roadtrip/honeymoon they had planned out before Tyler died. Unfortunately, his older brother Holden forces his way on the trip and with their tumultuous past it won’t be smooth sailing.
The Darkest Part was a story of grief and mending. Sam and Holden discover vital details about Tyler that shed light on his death and their combined relationships. Some of these discoveries were hurtful, but Holden and Sam helped each other through the pain. I adored seeing Holden and Sam work on these things together because it helped them heal from the past, set miscommunications right and reinstall their romance, which should’ve been so long ago.
It pained Holden to see Sam so shaken by Tyler’s death. He doesn’t think there’s any way she’s actually seeing Tyler’s ghost, but events and some of Sam’s knowledge put doubts in his mind. Could she really be seeing Tyler’s spirit? If not, Sam is close to really losing it and Holden is damned if he’s going to let that happen. Sam has always been a vibrant, beautiful woman in Holden’s opinion, even if he did wreck things with her years ago. Holden yearns to have a future with Sam, but that can’t happen until they work out the issues and mystery surrounding Tyler’s life and death.
I adored this darkly passionate tale! I was on the edge of my seat to figure out what exactly happened with Tyler, Holden and Sam. It was obvious to me that Sam and Tyler’s romance wasn’t as firm as it should’ve been considering they were supposed to get married. Sam and Holden’s relationship, as they embark on their road-trip is adversarial, at least on Sam’s part, and I enjoyed seeing the walls and bitter feelings melt away into a passionate, all-consuming need for one another. It was a slow and fiery build!
Trisha Wolfe weaved together a compelling, dark, and mysterious tale with a satisfying second chance romance. I plan on reading the next in the series: Losing Track very soon!
As a huge bonus, this moving story will be free on Amazon for a limited time: January 1-5! Be sure to grab yourself a copy!
A copy was kindly provided by the author in exchange for an honest review.
Samantha submerges into deep depression and darkness after losing her fiancé, Tyler in a tragic accident. The future she thought she had is forever gone and what’s worse is it seems Tyler’s ghost takes up visiting Sam, unable or unwilling to move on. Or is he? Could it be that overwhelming sadness has fractured Sam’s mental health or is Sam really having ghostly visitations? In order to help both her and Tyler move on, Sam plans to take the roadtrip/honeymoon they had planned out before Tyler died. Unfortunately, his older brother Holden forces his way on the trip and with their tumultuous past it won’t be smooth sailing.
The Darkest Part was a story of grief and mending. Sam and Holden discover vital details about Tyler that shed light on his death and their combined relationships. Some of these discoveries were hurtful, but Holden and Sam helped each other through the pain. I adored seeing Holden and Sam work on these things together because it helped them heal from the past, set miscommunications right and reinstall their romance, which should’ve been so long ago.
It pained Holden to see Sam so shaken by Tyler’s death. He doesn’t think there’s any way she’s actually seeing Tyler’s ghost, but events and some of Sam’s knowledge put doubts in his mind. Could she really be seeing Tyler’s spirit? If not, Sam is close to really losing it and Holden is damned if he’s going to let that happen. Sam has always been a vibrant, beautiful woman in Holden’s opinion, even if he did wreck things with her years ago. Holden yearns to have a future with Sam, but that can’t happen until they work out the issues and mystery surrounding Tyler’s life and death.
I adored this darkly passionate tale! I was on the edge of my seat to figure out what exactly happened with Tyler, Holden and Sam. It was obvious to me that Sam and Tyler’s romance wasn’t as firm as it should’ve been considering they were supposed to get married. Sam and Holden’s relationship, as they embark on their road-trip is adversarial, at least on Sam’s part, and I enjoyed seeing the walls and bitter feelings melt away into a passionate, all-consuming need for one another. It was a slow and fiery build!
Trisha Wolfe weaved together a compelling, dark, and mysterious tale with a satisfying second chance romance. I plan on reading the next in the series: Losing Track very soon!
As a huge bonus, this moving story will be free on Amazon for a limited time: January 1-5! Be sure to grab yourself a copy!
A copy was kindly provided by the author in exchange for an honest review.
August 22, 2013
Trisha Wolfe does a fine job with this story and I enjoyed the journey. This story is told in alternating povs of Holden and Sam which gives the reader some insight to secrets and feelings from the start of this story.
Sam has lost her best friend/boyfriend due to an “accident” and is struggling without him. Sam’s doctor has prescribed medication to help with her delusions. You see, Sam has contact with her ghost boyfriend, Tyler. (This is not a paranormal story.)
Sam believes that Tyler will slip into darkness if he doesn’t cross over so she decides that spreading his ashes on a road trip to all the places he dreamed of visiting was a great way for him to let her go.
”As much as I’m doing this trip for Tyler, truth is, I’m doing it for me, too. I’m tired of being scared. Sick of living in fear. I’m doing this to set Tyler free, yes, to help him to cross over – but deep down, I know it’s about more.
I need to cross over, too.
Into the living.”
Holden…well he is Tyler’s artist big brother who broke Sam’s heart when she was a teen. This was before she pursued a romantic relationship with Tyler. Holden accompanies Sam on this road trip to protect her and hopes for another chance at her heart.
”I may have zero chance with Sam. But if she ever does give me a shot, I won’t back out this time. Not for anyone. Not even a ghost. I know I don’t deserve her, but I’ll try. I’ll try damn hard. I wanted him to know that.”
Sam and Holden set out with Tyler’s ashes also Sam has Tyler’s private journal (Holden doesn’t know exists.) Through stops along the way they make friends on the road, deal with SECRETS from the past and their relationship all the while Sam learns to let go of Tyler.
”I don’t want her to pretend, or to substitute me tonight. I want her to want to be in my arms. And God forgive me, I’m sorry, Tyler…but…I want her.”
All the while their feelings for each other come to the surface and can't be ignored.
”That boy loves you.”
“You know that, right?” she asks. “Like, love you, loves you. He’s in deep. I think you could hock all his shit on EBay and he’d fall to his knees and give you head..”
Secrets are revealed, love is proclaimed and Sam and Holden get their forever. I really loved the epilogue, so good. I found it to be a perfect ending for this couple!!
September 9, 2019
Some would say that I'm running from my problems by reading guilty-pleasure romance books. And they would be right. But it's so fun though!
Okay, I'm going to keep this short. Holden is H.O.T. And that's why I finished the book. He is bad boy galore with the melting chocolate heart to top it all off. I mean he's broken and beautiful and that's all I needed to be like: I don't care about the plot!
Sam is a pretty great main character. Crazy, broken and that was okay with me.* I talk to myself all the time.* I liked her.
The one thing that Really bothered me was the emphasis on how much Sam was D-I-F-F-E-R-E-N-T than every other girl. Every girl is different than other girls. It's called having a personality. And a purple strand of hair, obscure bands doesn't make her that different. Also the end was anti-climactic like REALLY.
Even though I had my problems with this book, I can't deny my love for broken misnderstood bad boys. And Holden is super cute. Also their chemistry was on fire. And the ending was super-duper sweet. If you're looking for a sweet romance with angst and longing I think you should try this one.
Thank you for reading this review! hoping the best for you!
Okay, I'm going to keep this short. Holden is H.O.T. And that's why I finished the book. He is bad boy galore with the melting chocolate heart to top it all off. I mean he's broken and beautiful and that's all I needed to be like: I don't care about the plot!
Sam is a pretty great main character. Crazy, broken and that was okay with me.* I talk to myself all the time.* I liked her.
The one thing that Really bothered me was the emphasis on how much Sam was D-I-F-F-E-R-E-N-T than every other girl. Every girl is different than other girls. It's called having a personality. And a purple strand of hair, obscure bands doesn't make her that different. Also the end was anti-climactic like REALLY.
Even though I had my problems with this book, I can't deny my love for broken misnderstood bad boys. And Holden is super cute. Also their chemistry was on fire. And the ending was super-duper sweet. If you're looking for a sweet romance with angst and longing I think you should try this one.
Thank you for reading this review! hoping the best for you!
November 22, 2014
5 stars - Brilliant writing & unique storyline makes this one a must read!
I have loved everything I have ever read by Trisha Wolfe and this books was no exception. I was a little nervous with the topic but I shouldn't have worried. Instead, I should have trusted Trisha's writing and her character development. Her characters make choices that make sense with who they are. Love that.
Perhaps I shouldn't have started this on a school night - because I had to force myself to put it down and try and sleep - heavy on the try part. This book was devoured quickly despite the interruptions that sleep tried to claim. It's for sure I would have read it straight through if my schedule had allowed.
The characters are the best part of this story. I love great characters. Sam is struggling with the death of her boyfriend, Tyler. She's can't let go of Tyler and her reactions make sense for what she's going through. She's tough but this experience is ripping her apart. Hiding in her room at her parents house for days on end and pulling away from her life and friends is exactly what someone like this would do. As she tries to deal with her perception of what is happening to her, her family tries to help her to no end. Instead she finds her own way. And that way is not easy or quick. She must come to terms with not only what happened to Tyler but things from her past. What I really loved about Sam was that she proves the point that changes don't happen until you decide you want them. Watching her work through that process was emotional but not hopeless. I wasn't ever sad reading this book. I never thought I couldn't deal with it. No, I was on her side hoping she would find her way. She got to me. I loved her. I hoped for her.
Even more than Sam, I loved Holden. He has condemned himself as the bad guy. He has loved Sam since he was in high school but he broke her heart. It wasn't his idea to do that but Holden has always tried to protect those he loves. He tried to protect his mother and his brother but no matter how hard he tried or how much he scarifies, he loses them both. He blames himself. He doesn't feel like he deserves Sam but he is so wrong there. He is was she needs. She is what he needs. But their journey isn't easy or quick. It's real. When all the secrets are revealed, I loved Holden so much.
The ending was perfect. I worried some that there would be no way for things to work for these two but a few surprises brought the story to exactly where I hoped it would go. While I did figure out one of the twists, others were complete shocks. And when I turned the last page, I was happy.
If you love NA but wonder if they will all be the same, then this book needs your attention because this NA is unique. If you love romance that is emotional and real, then this book needs your attention. If you just love a good story, then this book needs your attention. Don't miss this one!
November 28, 2014
4.5 stars!!!
August 30, 2013
I don’t even know where to start with this honestly. This is the fourth book I’ve read by Trisha, and although her other books are Fantasy (not my favorite genre) I still love them because she is one hell of a story-teller. I’ve been hoping she would write a contemporary NA, something different that what’s already out there. When she sent me her idea for this book, I loved the dark aspect and the way it deals with mental illness, and I knew this was going to be amazing! I was lucky enough to beta read this and I so happy I got to see the story and Sam and Holden’s characters grow and progress. I’ve read so many NA’s but The Darkest Part is one of my favorites!
Sam’s perfect world comes crashing down on her when she loses Tyler, her best friend and fiance. Sam and Tyler have been dating since early high school and they had their whole futures planned out, only to have it all shattered one night. Sam isn’t handling Tyler’s death well, in fact, she isn’t dealing with it at all because she is convinced that Tyler’s still around. She knows he’s gone, but she keeps seeing him and can even talk to him. When Sam starts losing focus of her life, and her new life revolves around Tyler’s ghost, her family takes her to see a psychiatrist. But she’s afraid of taking her meds because she knows they will make Tyler go away. Instead, she gets rid of them down the drain. She isn’t ready to let Tyler go but she knows she has to help him cross over. Thinking that going on their honeymoon road trip and spreading some of Tyler’s ashes along the way will help them both let go. But Tyler’s older brother Holden isn’t letting Sam go out on her own, especially in her condition. Holden convinces her to let him go on the trip with her, which only complicates things further between them. Being alone for that long will force Sam and Holden to deal with their complicated past, and find a way to let Tyler go.
Sam’s story about dealing with Tyler’s death is a great one on its own, but when you put it together with her and Holden’s messed up relationship and complicated past, it creates a more powerful, deeper and emotional story. On their journey, Sam starts to realize that Tyler was hiding things from her and he wasn’t exactly the person she though he was. She’s also realizing that maybe Holden isn’t the asshole she thought he was all these years. The longer they spend together on their trip, the more their old feelings, the good ones and the bad ones, start resurfacing. As if dealing with Tyler’s ghost wasn’t enough, now she has to figure out what to do with all these old and new feelings she has for Holden. I adored Sam’s character. She was one messed up chick but she never lost her spark. And OMG, Holden was such a great character! He wasn’t your typical bad boy asshole. He loves Sam and his brother and his actions prove it. I was rooting for Sam and Holden all the way! Their slow building relationship was amazing and I was dying for them to finally realize their true feelings. The chemistry between them was sexy, it didn’t matter if they were fighting or flirting, it was fucking hot!
This is so far my favorite book by Trisha and one of my favorites! I really hope she writes more contemporary books. The Darkest Part is not your typical NA. It’s a powerful mentally and emotional story about true love and finding your way out of the darkness. Something that only a talented writer can pull off.
This one is out really soon so make sure to get your copy!
Some of my favorite quotes about The Darkest Part:
-I can’t have her. I couldn’t have her then, and I can’t now. She still belongs to Tyler. She’s making sure of that, too. By not dealing with his death in a healthy way, she’ll never heal and be able to be with anyone else. She’s not meant for me, but I can hope that, by the end of this trip, she’s able to move on.
-He’s got some deep-seeded anger, a past that haunts him, and I don’t think I’m strong enough to wrestle his ghosts.
Not while I’m dancing with mine.
-My nervous system is about to shut down. I know it is. I suddenly regret not taking Dr. Hartman up on her offer for anxiety meds. I’d be chewing those bitches like Gummy Bears right now.
-“You’re dancing with me.”
The tiny knot in her throat bobs as she swallows, her eyes clear and knowing. I want her to know who she’s dancing with. I don’t want her to pretend, or to substitute me tonight. I want her to want to be in my arms. And God forgive me, I’m sorry, Tyler…but I want her.
-“There was a side to Tyler you never knew. Things about him, his life that would make that pool incident seem like swimming with guppies in a tank.” A beat. ”And me? I’m shark infested waters.”
-I may have zero chance with Sam. But if she ever does give me a shot, I won’t back out this time. Not for anyone. Not even his ghost.
***
Read more of my reviews at:
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February 20, 2017
I gave The Darkest part a try because I had read and enjoyed another novel that this author wrote, and because I wanted to read something a little different from what I had been reading all week. This was my first endeavor into the new adult category and I can say that this one at least was not for me.
I don't know if all NA is like this, but I'm not used to all of the crude and vulgar language on every single page, pretty much every time one of the characters said or even thought about anything. I liked things about Holden's personality but everything the main character, Sam did in the book turned him on, and I'm not at all exaggerating. She bit her lip and he was aroused. The guy was led around by his hormones. It would have been nice if he could have for once seen her as more that an object. It was just ridiculous.
And the sex, it was just off-putting. There was one scene in particular that I didn't find romantic at all. Actually I didn't find any of those scenes romantic in this book. I suppose it was what some would call hot and steamy, but it was not what I like to read. Like the language and thoughts of the main characters, it was too crude for me. It almost felt like it was all about finally getting to do the act and get relief after lusting after that person for years and years, and do it in the most unromantic way possible because this is all about hormones, instead of two people coming together who loved each other for years.
I was drawn into the story despite these things and kept reading because I wanted to see how it all would end, and what everyone was hiding. Unfortunately, that could not outweigh the things I disliked about the book.
I don't know if all NA is like this, but I'm not used to all of the crude and vulgar language on every single page, pretty much every time one of the characters said or even thought about anything. I liked things about Holden's personality but everything the main character, Sam did in the book turned him on, and I'm not at all exaggerating. She bit her lip and he was aroused. The guy was led around by his hormones. It would have been nice if he could have for once seen her as more that an object. It was just ridiculous.
And the sex, it was just off-putting. There was one scene in particular that I didn't find romantic at all. Actually I didn't find any of those scenes romantic in this book. I suppose it was what some would call hot and steamy, but it was not what I like to read. Like the language and thoughts of the main characters, it was too crude for me. It almost felt like it was all about finally getting to do the act and get relief after lusting after that person for years and years, and do it in the most unromantic way possible because this is all about hormones, instead of two people coming together who loved each other for years.
I was drawn into the story despite these things and kept reading because I wanted to see how it all would end, and what everyone was hiding. Unfortunately, that could not outweigh the things I disliked about the book.
August 23, 2013
*** 4 Holden-is-yummylicious-stars !!! ***
“There’re things you can’t tell me. I get that. But I think I deserve to know just one.” She blinks hard, and I watch as fear covers her eyes. “Did you ever love me?”
The world shifts under my feet. And I don’t know if it’s because I’m relieved or angry she asked that. Relieved because she didn’t ask the one thing I can’t tell her, or angry because I’ve wanted to tell her so badly for so long, but if I admit the truth—it means I don’t deserve her.
My mouth parts, and before I can grasp a full, coherent thought, I hear myself say, “I never stopped loving you.”
So , when I first read that blurb I honestly thought this was some paranormal romance . But then when I checked out the shelves it was added under , I was like , " Oh , no , this isn't a paranormal romance . This is a contemporary romance ! Yes , I think I'm gonna read it ... "
And then I did . After I finished reading it , I found myself smiling a little with probably a few drops of tears in my eyes trying to find a way out ...
The Darkest Part is a story of letting go and accepting change . Its about love and forgiveness . Its about sacrifices and loyal bonds .
Sam has been in love with Tyler Marks for almost forever .. And that's exactly what she thought , that Tyler is her forever . But that's not her reality . Tyler dies in an accident , leaving behind a grieving Sam . Sam turns into a living zombie . She stops going to school . Stops socializing with her parents . The only thing that she does is lock herself up in her room and talk to herself . Well , actually she talks to Tyler's ghosts . Her parents and folks of the town think Tyler's death has really affected her in the worst possible way ....
Enters , Holden Marks , Tyler's older brother . Holden and Sam have a secret , a past that still has Sam reeling . She tries to keep her distance from Holden . But Fate has something else planned for them . What is that plan ? What is the secret ? What actually happened to Tyler ? Well , all those answers are for you to find .
I really don't know what to say where the story is concerned .. Because everything is soo tangled together and telling anything at this point would be like giving away major spoilers . And I really don't want to that .
Lets just say that the story is really intriguing . As a reader , you get to the know the story in bits and pieces . Told from an alternating POV by Holden and Sam , you get to gather information and clues to glue in the bigger picture . But DAMN ! That's the hard work ! You'll think that you know where and how the story is going to progress , but Trisha Wolfe really keeps you guessing till the end ! But when the big revelation happens , all you can do is take one deep breathe and go , OH MY GOD ! What !
Talking about the characters , can I just say that Holden Marks had my heart going BOOM BOOM ! He is mysterious and brooding .. Oh and an alpha !
Sam is lovable character , but sometimes she just seemed too petulant .
To sum it all up , The Darkest Part is a journey from the darkest despairs of the human mind to the light of truth and clarity . Its about keeping your past as remainder and moving forward . Its about finding love and hope in the darkest of places .
“There’re things you can’t tell me. I get that. But I think I deserve to know just one.” She blinks hard, and I watch as fear covers her eyes. “Did you ever love me?”
The world shifts under my feet. And I don’t know if it’s because I’m relieved or angry she asked that. Relieved because she didn’t ask the one thing I can’t tell her, or angry because I’ve wanted to tell her so badly for so long, but if I admit the truth—it means I don’t deserve her.
My mouth parts, and before I can grasp a full, coherent thought, I hear myself say, “I never stopped loving you.”
So , when I first read that blurb I honestly thought this was some paranormal romance . But then when I checked out the shelves it was added under , I was like , " Oh , no , this isn't a paranormal romance . This is a contemporary romance ! Yes , I think I'm gonna read it ... "
And then I did . After I finished reading it , I found myself smiling a little with probably a few drops of tears in my eyes trying to find a way out ...
The Darkest Part is a story of letting go and accepting change . Its about love and forgiveness . Its about sacrifices and loyal bonds .
Sam has been in love with Tyler Marks for almost forever .. And that's exactly what she thought , that Tyler is her forever . But that's not her reality . Tyler dies in an accident , leaving behind a grieving Sam . Sam turns into a living zombie . She stops going to school . Stops socializing with her parents . The only thing that she does is lock herself up in her room and talk to herself . Well , actually she talks to Tyler's ghosts . Her parents and folks of the town think Tyler's death has really affected her in the worst possible way ....
Enters , Holden Marks , Tyler's older brother . Holden and Sam have a secret , a past that still has Sam reeling . She tries to keep her distance from Holden . But Fate has something else planned for them . What is that plan ? What is the secret ? What actually happened to Tyler ? Well , all those answers are for you to find .
I really don't know what to say where the story is concerned .. Because everything is soo tangled together and telling anything at this point would be like giving away major spoilers . And I really don't want to that .
Lets just say that the story is really intriguing . As a reader , you get to the know the story in bits and pieces . Told from an alternating POV by Holden and Sam , you get to gather information and clues to glue in the bigger picture . But DAMN ! That's the hard work ! You'll think that you know where and how the story is going to progress , but Trisha Wolfe really keeps you guessing till the end ! But when the big revelation happens , all you can do is take one deep breathe and go , OH MY GOD ! What !
Talking about the characters , can I just say that Holden Marks had my heart going BOOM BOOM ! He is mysterious and brooding .. Oh and an alpha !
Sam is lovable character , but sometimes she just seemed too petulant .
To sum it all up , The Darkest Part is a journey from the darkest despairs of the human mind to the light of truth and clarity . Its about keeping your past as remainder and moving forward . Its about finding love and hope in the darkest of places .
February 7, 2015
I am going to be upfront in my review and not try and play it off that this has a paranormal aspects to it. The heroine in this suffers from psychosis – she thinks she sees her dead boyfriend and that she needs to help him cross over. Of course what really needs to happen is she needs to face what happened and let him go.
There are three main players in this book. Holden and Tyler Marks who are brothers and Sam Wintry, who they have known and lived next to since she was born. They grew up very close. Sam and Holden were the shyer artsy types where Tyler was the athlete and planned to follow in his father footsteps to become a lawyer. Sam had always had a crush on Holden but for circumstances Sam knew nothing about he pushed her away when she finally got the courage to tell him. From that point on her and Tyler cross the friendship line into a relationship and were planning on getting married before he was killed by a hit and run driver. Sam not able to handle his death had a mental breakdown but in her eyes it was everyone else that didn’t understand that Tyler was still there.
We knew one of Holden’s reason from walking away from Sam was he knew he brother was in love with her and his whole life he done nothing but try and protect his brother from first his father’s fist then another tragic accident. He knows Sam hates him but it breaks his heart to see her so broken now. When he sees that she is going to go on the cross-country trip that she and Tyler had always planned on her own he puts his issues aside to go with her to keep her safe.
What neither of these two expected to happen on this trip is for their wounds to be ripped open which in turn finally causes the long needed healing of both of them to begin and for them both to realize that something that started a very long time ago was always meant to be.
Along with the present this book has a lot of flashbacks which are needed to really explain how everyone ended up where they are today. In doing that it felt like Tyler was a big part of the book even though he was dead when the book started. These three people suffered so much in their short lives. I really enjoyed this book and plan to read the rest in the series.
There are three main players in this book. Holden and Tyler Marks who are brothers and Sam Wintry, who they have known and lived next to since she was born. They grew up very close. Sam and Holden were the shyer artsy types where Tyler was the athlete and planned to follow in his father footsteps to become a lawyer. Sam had always had a crush on Holden but for circumstances Sam knew nothing about he pushed her away when she finally got the courage to tell him. From that point on her and Tyler cross the friendship line into a relationship and were planning on getting married before he was killed by a hit and run driver. Sam not able to handle his death had a mental breakdown but in her eyes it was everyone else that didn’t understand that Tyler was still there.
We knew one of Holden’s reason from walking away from Sam was he knew he brother was in love with her and his whole life he done nothing but try and protect his brother from first his father’s fist then another tragic accident. He knows Sam hates him but it breaks his heart to see her so broken now. When he sees that she is going to go on the cross-country trip that she and Tyler had always planned on her own he puts his issues aside to go with her to keep her safe.
What neither of these two expected to happen on this trip is for their wounds to be ripped open which in turn finally causes the long needed healing of both of them to begin and for them both to realize that something that started a very long time ago was always meant to be.
Along with the present this book has a lot of flashbacks which are needed to really explain how everyone ended up where they are today. In doing that it felt like Tyler was a big part of the book even though he was dead when the book started. These three people suffered so much in their short lives. I really enjoyed this book and plan to read the rest in the series.
August 6, 2013
To Be Posted on K-Books on August 8th (Release Date)
Oh My Word!
This book is without a doubt utter perfection!
I have been a huge fan of Trisha Wolfe ever since she sent me her fantasy novella, Unveiled, for review I just fell head over heels in love with her writing style and her stories. When she told me she was trying her hand at a NA Contemporary I was beside myself with excitement. I adore contemporary novels and have been on quite a NA kick lately so I couldn't wait to dive into this one. Imagine just how much more excited I got when she said I could beta read it. I was bouncing in my seat I was so excited. The Darkest Part did not disappoint and is possibly the best novel that Trisha has ever written to date.
When I sat down to start The Darkest Part I devoured it... in one sitting. I was sucked into this story of love lost, mental illness and desperation and it hooked me and touched me like no other NA Contemp I have read. Maybe it's the fact that my degree is in Psychology but the mental health aspect of this story was what I feel makes it so unique from all the other novels that are out there. A lot of NA novels have some traumatic event that has happened in the past but none of them, or at least the ones I have come across, have focussed on the mental impact that can have in terms of being diagnosed with a mental illness. The Darkest Part not only dwells on it but it is the focus of the story. It has a twist of magic and all the way through you are trying to figure out whether it is a twist of fate and magic or whether it is just a part of the mental illness. It is so cleverly wrote and well done that it has you double thinking and double guessing all the way through. Only an incredibly talented author would be able to pull that off and Trisha Wolfe does it perfectly.
Sam has lost the love of her life. When her boyfriend dies Sam is distraught. But it only lasts so long when she starts to see his Ghost... Her family are convinced she has a mental illness... that the trauma of losing her long time love has been too much for her fragile mind. But Sam knows its real... she knows that Tyler is there and in order to get him to cross over she must put him to rest... which means that she needs to go on the journey of a lifetime... the one they were supposed to do together.
Enlisting the help of Tyler's estranged brother Holden they take off across the country with Tyler's ashes and take him on one last journey. But the more state lines the cross the more lies of Tyler's past comes to light. Sam finds out the dark truths her love kept from her and discovers a darker side to Tyler she never knew... Can Sam really get over Tyler when so much is coming to light she never knew? And can she really truth the truth of Tyler's 'ghost' or is it really just a figment of a mental illness. Sam is on a journey to find out... and can she really move on when Tyler's drop-dead gorgeous, yet troubled brother, who shares a shaky past with Sam, makes her heart start to beat again?
Sam... oh my word Sam! I adore her! She is one of my favourite heroine's of all time. I know I always talk about how much I want a kick-ass heroine in my books but this is the exception. Not that Sam isn't kick-ass, in her own way she is, but she is vulnerable and has so much trouble to go through and face and you cannot help but love her and root for her all the way through. Although the book is without a doubt a romance, Sam goes through a journey of self-discovery and learns so much about herself and that I find is the best part of the book. I love the journey that Sam goes on in discovering herself and her struggle of what she believes is true yet everyone else thinks its a mental illness. I love Sam's journey and it makes the book just so unbelievably perfect!
Holden... oh my goodness! I am head over heels in love with Holden. Holden has a past, a seriously messed up past and he is such the bad boy, yet he is perfect in every way. Right from the moment Holden was introduced I fell head over heels in love with him. In everything he did... everything he said... I just loved him more. He is one of those book boys that you want to grab into the book and pull him out because you love him so much you need him to be read and for him to love you! I adore him. I think he has taken a permanent spot in my Top Book Boyfriends gallery! I adore him.
The Darkest Part has everything you could possibly want. It has bucket loads of sexual tension, heart-melting romance and love, yet it also has something darker... something more than you usually find in NA Contemps. It has that struggle of self-perservation and self-worth and it really takes you on a rollercoaster ride of emotions. I couldn't put it down. I loved every single moment of it.
I have read the majority of Trisha's other books and I adore them. I love her fantasy novels but I have to say I think her real talent comes out in this contemporary novel. In contemporary there is nothing to hide behind. No fantasy world, or creatures, or powers... it's just you, the characters and the depth of emotion that goes on in their journey. The Darkest Part is the best of her books without a doubt. She has really found her place in this genre and I can guarantee she is not going anywhere. The Darkest Part is pure perfection and a must read for everyone. This is one book that will never leave you. The depth of emotion is so potent that it really grabs you and takes you on this journey and you feel every emotion along with Sam and Holden. You will read it and no matter how long it is since you read it, it still stays with you long after you've finished.
I cannot praise The Darkest Part and Trisha enough. Trisha Wolfe is definitely one author to watch out for. I can see big things for her in the future. Her writing is perfect and her storytelling is one of pure talent and power. The Darkest Part really shows the extent to her storytelling skills and it is pure perfection in every way.
A must-read.
Oh My Word!
This book is without a doubt utter perfection!
I have been a huge fan of Trisha Wolfe ever since she sent me her fantasy novella, Unveiled, for review I just fell head over heels in love with her writing style and her stories. When she told me she was trying her hand at a NA Contemporary I was beside myself with excitement. I adore contemporary novels and have been on quite a NA kick lately so I couldn't wait to dive into this one. Imagine just how much more excited I got when she said I could beta read it. I was bouncing in my seat I was so excited. The Darkest Part did not disappoint and is possibly the best novel that Trisha has ever written to date.
When I sat down to start The Darkest Part I devoured it... in one sitting. I was sucked into this story of love lost, mental illness and desperation and it hooked me and touched me like no other NA Contemp I have read. Maybe it's the fact that my degree is in Psychology but the mental health aspect of this story was what I feel makes it so unique from all the other novels that are out there. A lot of NA novels have some traumatic event that has happened in the past but none of them, or at least the ones I have come across, have focussed on the mental impact that can have in terms of being diagnosed with a mental illness. The Darkest Part not only dwells on it but it is the focus of the story. It has a twist of magic and all the way through you are trying to figure out whether it is a twist of fate and magic or whether it is just a part of the mental illness. It is so cleverly wrote and well done that it has you double thinking and double guessing all the way through. Only an incredibly talented author would be able to pull that off and Trisha Wolfe does it perfectly.
Sam has lost the love of her life. When her boyfriend dies Sam is distraught. But it only lasts so long when she starts to see his Ghost... Her family are convinced she has a mental illness... that the trauma of losing her long time love has been too much for her fragile mind. But Sam knows its real... she knows that Tyler is there and in order to get him to cross over she must put him to rest... which means that she needs to go on the journey of a lifetime... the one they were supposed to do together.
Enlisting the help of Tyler's estranged brother Holden they take off across the country with Tyler's ashes and take him on one last journey. But the more state lines the cross the more lies of Tyler's past comes to light. Sam finds out the dark truths her love kept from her and discovers a darker side to Tyler she never knew... Can Sam really get over Tyler when so much is coming to light she never knew? And can she really truth the truth of Tyler's 'ghost' or is it really just a figment of a mental illness. Sam is on a journey to find out... and can she really move on when Tyler's drop-dead gorgeous, yet troubled brother, who shares a shaky past with Sam, makes her heart start to beat again?
Sam... oh my word Sam! I adore her! She is one of my favourite heroine's of all time. I know I always talk about how much I want a kick-ass heroine in my books but this is the exception. Not that Sam isn't kick-ass, in her own way she is, but she is vulnerable and has so much trouble to go through and face and you cannot help but love her and root for her all the way through. Although the book is without a doubt a romance, Sam goes through a journey of self-discovery and learns so much about herself and that I find is the best part of the book. I love the journey that Sam goes on in discovering herself and her struggle of what she believes is true yet everyone else thinks its a mental illness. I love Sam's journey and it makes the book just so unbelievably perfect!
Holden... oh my goodness! I am head over heels in love with Holden. Holden has a past, a seriously messed up past and he is such the bad boy, yet he is perfect in every way. Right from the moment Holden was introduced I fell head over heels in love with him. In everything he did... everything he said... I just loved him more. He is one of those book boys that you want to grab into the book and pull him out because you love him so much you need him to be read and for him to love you! I adore him. I think he has taken a permanent spot in my Top Book Boyfriends gallery! I adore him.
The Darkest Part has everything you could possibly want. It has bucket loads of sexual tension, heart-melting romance and love, yet it also has something darker... something more than you usually find in NA Contemps. It has that struggle of self-perservation and self-worth and it really takes you on a rollercoaster ride of emotions. I couldn't put it down. I loved every single moment of it.
I have read the majority of Trisha's other books and I adore them. I love her fantasy novels but I have to say I think her real talent comes out in this contemporary novel. In contemporary there is nothing to hide behind. No fantasy world, or creatures, or powers... it's just you, the characters and the depth of emotion that goes on in their journey. The Darkest Part is the best of her books without a doubt. She has really found her place in this genre and I can guarantee she is not going anywhere. The Darkest Part is pure perfection and a must read for everyone. This is one book that will never leave you. The depth of emotion is so potent that it really grabs you and takes you on this journey and you feel every emotion along with Sam and Holden. You will read it and no matter how long it is since you read it, it still stays with you long after you've finished.
I cannot praise The Darkest Part and Trisha enough. Trisha Wolfe is definitely one author to watch out for. I can see big things for her in the future. Her writing is perfect and her storytelling is one of pure talent and power. The Darkest Part really shows the extent to her storytelling skills and it is pure perfection in every way.
A must-read.
Want to read
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August 21, 2013
I have said it before and will say it again, I love Trisha Wolfe. She is an amazing writer who creates these characters that I adore, and never want for them to leave my heart. Her stories leave me breathless, panting, and seriously rooting for the main characters despite the circumstances because they are relatable, they feel and express powerful emotions, and the romances are sizzling. The Darkest Part is no exception to any of this and only increases my level of love for Trish and her writing.
Sam is seeing her dead boyfriend and I can't decide how much it was contemporary or if is should be classified as more of a paranormal, because I believe her and don't think that she is crazy. I think that she is legitimately seeing his spirit and that she is on a mission to help him cross over and find peace instead of fading into the dark.
This book is written in dual perspective and it flashes back to Sam and Tyler's life so that we get a picture of their love and relationship, but we also see Sam and Holden, the other main character, and this is where things get really complicated in the most juicy way possible. Holden and Tyler and brothers and Tyler and Sam grew up best friends, but Sam and Holden also have a romantic past, but it doesn't end well. And I yearned for the moment where I found out Holden's side because from Sam's perspective he just seems like a big jerk, but I knew that something more.
Because I fell for Holden too. Being in his head I got to see his intentions and his love for Sam, and it never really seemed like it ended, but the only reason I could figure (writing this at 20%) and of course I won't tell you because it would be a big spoiler all leads back to Tyler.
The psychological element seemed really well done and researched. As one who suffers from depression, I can relate with what Sam was going through. As a daughter and seeing my mom going through losing my dad, the love of her life, I also can really vouch and relate to the paralyzing grief and feeling of being lost, and tell you that Trisha really nails it. It was a mystery in the sense that I didn't know if she was really seeing Tyler or if it was really a psychosis.
The road trip aspect was also a lot of fun. It brought Holden and Sam together and they bonded over their love for Tyler and on the way found themselves healing. They also build on that friendship they used to have, and I loved every single conversation, deep, light and even the fights because so much truth comes out. Things that shouldn't be hidden.
I felt for Sam, but also saw her strength and was proud of herself wanting to heal and taking steps to stand up for herself, and still wanting to honor Tyler's memory. I fell in love with Holden, because even though he has a rough past, and has mistakes, he loved his brother, and made unbelievable sacrifices for him. He is sexy, confident, but will help those he loves and give them the shirt off his back.
We also find out that Tyler had secrets, and it was painful to find out the darker side of him. It also made me begin to question some of the things I thought were facts. Some of it was a great surprise and twist in the story as well.
This is realistic, emotional and powerful. Beautifully written and it touched my heart. I will read anything Trisha writes and definitely can't wait for the next book in the Living Heartwood series.
Bottom Line: Powerful, emotional, beautifully written with a building and sizzling romance.
Sam is seeing her dead boyfriend and I can't decide how much it was contemporary or if is should be classified as more of a paranormal, because I believe her and don't think that she is crazy. I think that she is legitimately seeing his spirit and that she is on a mission to help him cross over and find peace instead of fading into the dark.
This book is written in dual perspective and it flashes back to Sam and Tyler's life so that we get a picture of their love and relationship, but we also see Sam and Holden, the other main character, and this is where things get really complicated in the most juicy way possible. Holden and Tyler and brothers and Tyler and Sam grew up best friends, but Sam and Holden also have a romantic past, but it doesn't end well. And I yearned for the moment where I found out Holden's side because from Sam's perspective he just seems like a big jerk, but I knew that something more.
Because I fell for Holden too. Being in his head I got to see his intentions and his love for Sam, and it never really seemed like it ended, but the only reason I could figure (writing this at 20%) and of course I won't tell you because it would be a big spoiler all leads back to Tyler.
The psychological element seemed really well done and researched. As one who suffers from depression, I can relate with what Sam was going through. As a daughter and seeing my mom going through losing my dad, the love of her life, I also can really vouch and relate to the paralyzing grief and feeling of being lost, and tell you that Trisha really nails it. It was a mystery in the sense that I didn't know if she was really seeing Tyler or if it was really a psychosis.
The road trip aspect was also a lot of fun. It brought Holden and Sam together and they bonded over their love for Tyler and on the way found themselves healing. They also build on that friendship they used to have, and I loved every single conversation, deep, light and even the fights because so much truth comes out. Things that shouldn't be hidden.
I felt for Sam, but also saw her strength and was proud of herself wanting to heal and taking steps to stand up for herself, and still wanting to honor Tyler's memory. I fell in love with Holden, because even though he has a rough past, and has mistakes, he loved his brother, and made unbelievable sacrifices for him. He is sexy, confident, but will help those he loves and give them the shirt off his back.
We also find out that Tyler had secrets, and it was painful to find out the darker side of him. It also made me begin to question some of the things I thought were facts. Some of it was a great surprise and twist in the story as well.
This is realistic, emotional and powerful. Beautifully written and it touched my heart. I will read anything Trisha writes and definitely can't wait for the next book in the Living Heartwood series.
Bottom Line: Powerful, emotional, beautifully written with a building and sizzling romance.
February 21, 2016
I don't think it's possible to be disappointed by Trisha Wolfe. I opened this, safe in the knowledge that all I had read before I had liked, and expected good things. I think it's safe to say I got good things. In fact, with such a beautifully emotional story and with characters you just want to hug, I'd go so far as to say I got wonderful things.
Sam was left devastated after her fiancé, Tyler Marks, was killed in a hit-and-run and shocked when she started seeing his ghost. At first disbelieving, now she holds on to seeing him and talking to him to help her get through each day. Her parents, on the other hand, have her meeting with a psychiatrist. She decides she needs to help Tyler cross over, and a plan starts to form: she'll collect his ashes and finally take that trip they were supposed to go on for their honeymoon, scattering his ashes at each stop. Never mind the fact that she might not be ready for him to go. When Holden, Tyler's brother, returns to the neighbourhood to see where Tyler's case is at, Sam enlists his help to get hold of his brother's ashes. Holden is the last person she wants to ask given their past, but there's no other choice. What she doesn't plan is for Holden coming with her. Holden, who is increasingly worried at Sam's mental state with each day. Holden, who has secrets of his own. With the past clinging tightly to both of them, it's uncertain whether they'll be able to make it back out.
This is a bit of a difficult one because it's marketed as a contemporary, yet there also seems to the be the possibility of the supernatural. The matter of Tyler's ghost and Sam's mental state is portrayed in such a way as to leave room for doubt. A little more definition may have been desirable, but I believe it works equally well either way. Whichever end of the spectrum this book falls at, the ghost works to bring a delicious level of darkness, on the one hand through its own presence and on the other through conveying Sam's highly troubled state of mind. Add to that a roadtrip and two characters each undergoing their own emotional journey, and there was no way I was being parted from this book before finishing. Once again Wolfe's writing style proves irresistible, flexible enough that she creates a world so different from her usual creations - real rather than fantasy - and yet still so complex. In addition to which, two perspectives that are clearly different.
Sam and Holden are both broken characters, shown to be so in different ways. The extent to which Sam is shattered over her fiancé's death truly had me feeling for her. Ghost or no ghost, she isn't ready to let Tyler go, and that has caused her to let go of herself. Holden is barely holding it together under the weight of guilt and secrets - and now also being close to Sam. One of the things that really struck me about him was how thoughtful he was. As far as he's concerned Sam is unstable, and in his interactions with her you can see him think through what the best approach would be at any given moment so that she isn't pushed too hard (arguments withstanding). It probably sounds patronising here, but the novel depicts someone very intelligent and very concerned.
For such broken characters, then, I thought the roadtrip a perfect way to make and show their own personal journeys. I think that's one of the reasons I love roadtrip stories. At the same time as honouring Tyler's memory they were making their own, and the dynamics between them were constantly changing. There was outright hostility and forgiveness and fear and love and everything in between, not to mention the pretty awesome Biker Melody helping things along. The past was confronted, demons (or do I mean ghosts?) put to rest and the sweetest of endings. Until finally there was just me, face stretched into a wide smile and the presence of two new characters in my heart.
The Darkest Part shows what it means to lose someone and to let go. It's beautiful, emotional, well-written. Frankly by this point I don't expect anything less of Trisha Wolfe. If you haven't yet read anything by this author, I would strongly urge you to do so. (Seriously, why haven't you?) Whether it's myth, fantasy, adventure or, as is the case here, mystery, emotion or even simply a tale of two individuals, there is no doubt that she has you sorted.
This review is also posted on my blog.
Sam was left devastated after her fiancé, Tyler Marks, was killed in a hit-and-run and shocked when she started seeing his ghost. At first disbelieving, now she holds on to seeing him and talking to him to help her get through each day. Her parents, on the other hand, have her meeting with a psychiatrist. She decides she needs to help Tyler cross over, and a plan starts to form: she'll collect his ashes and finally take that trip they were supposed to go on for their honeymoon, scattering his ashes at each stop. Never mind the fact that she might not be ready for him to go. When Holden, Tyler's brother, returns to the neighbourhood to see where Tyler's case is at, Sam enlists his help to get hold of his brother's ashes. Holden is the last person she wants to ask given their past, but there's no other choice. What she doesn't plan is for Holden coming with her. Holden, who is increasingly worried at Sam's mental state with each day. Holden, who has secrets of his own. With the past clinging tightly to both of them, it's uncertain whether they'll be able to make it back out.
This is a bit of a difficult one because it's marketed as a contemporary, yet there also seems to the be the possibility of the supernatural. The matter of Tyler's ghost and Sam's mental state is portrayed in such a way as to leave room for doubt. A little more definition may have been desirable, but I believe it works equally well either way. Whichever end of the spectrum this book falls at, the ghost works to bring a delicious level of darkness, on the one hand through its own presence and on the other through conveying Sam's highly troubled state of mind. Add to that a roadtrip and two characters each undergoing their own emotional journey, and there was no way I was being parted from this book before finishing. Once again Wolfe's writing style proves irresistible, flexible enough that she creates a world so different from her usual creations - real rather than fantasy - and yet still so complex. In addition to which, two perspectives that are clearly different.
Sam and Holden are both broken characters, shown to be so in different ways. The extent to which Sam is shattered over her fiancé's death truly had me feeling for her. Ghost or no ghost, she isn't ready to let Tyler go, and that has caused her to let go of herself. Holden is barely holding it together under the weight of guilt and secrets - and now also being close to Sam. One of the things that really struck me about him was how thoughtful he was. As far as he's concerned Sam is unstable, and in his interactions with her you can see him think through what the best approach would be at any given moment so that she isn't pushed too hard (arguments withstanding). It probably sounds patronising here, but the novel depicts someone very intelligent and very concerned.
For such broken characters, then, I thought the roadtrip a perfect way to make and show their own personal journeys. I think that's one of the reasons I love roadtrip stories. At the same time as honouring Tyler's memory they were making their own, and the dynamics between them were constantly changing. There was outright hostility and forgiveness and fear and love and everything in between, not to mention the pretty awesome Biker Melody helping things along. The past was confronted, demons (or do I mean ghosts?) put to rest and the sweetest of endings. Until finally there was just me, face stretched into a wide smile and the presence of two new characters in my heart.
The Darkest Part shows what it means to lose someone and to let go. It's beautiful, emotional, well-written. Frankly by this point I don't expect anything less of Trisha Wolfe. If you haven't yet read anything by this author, I would strongly urge you to do so. (Seriously, why haven't you?) Whether it's myth, fantasy, adventure or, as is the case here, mystery, emotion or even simply a tale of two individuals, there is no doubt that she has you sorted.
This review is also posted on my blog.
February 29, 2016
This spring, I got to review Of Silver and Beasts by Trisha Wolfe. Guess what? I loved it! It was a book that sealed the deal for me and I now want to make it my life’s mission to read all of Trisha’s books. LOL. I’m slightly kidding, but the truth is not far from it. I wondered what it’d be like if Trish ever wrote a contemporary novel and now I got the chance to explore it first hand.
As much as I'm doing this trip for Tyler, truth is, I'm doing it for me, too. I'm tired of being scared. Sick of living in fear. I'm doing this to set Tyler free, yes, to help him cross over--but deep down, I know it's about more.
I need to cross over, too.
To the living.
The story. Sam is depressed. Like.. really in a dark place and all that’s keeping her together is her dead boyfriend’s ghost Tyler. Who others say is a hallucination. Sam is sure he’s not and she is determined to bring his soul to peace by going on a road trip to take his ashes everywhere he wanted to travel. Only problem is, she has to go with Holden or not go at all. Why is this a problem? Let’s see.. Holden is Tyler’s brother and when they were younger, Sam was helplessly in love with him until he broke her hear. Now, spending even five minutes in a room with him seems insurmountable.
My thoughts. I found this to be really intriguing; hopeless; dark. I loved the last book I read that featured a road trip and that was The Edge of Never. While The Darkest Part didn’t exactly reach the level of awesomeness that was Camryn and Andrew’s story, I did truly enjoy it. When we met Sam, she was in a really dark place and I didn’t see any way possible for her to feel alive again. Everything she had dreamed about had vanished into thin air and now she has to cope with it all alone. I’m glad Holden was there to support her. Speaking of Holden..
Holden was the heart of the story for me. Even though Tyler is long gone, his presence still lingers and it was great to watch unfinished business between the brothers work itself out and Holden get relief from years of guilt and horrible memories. I believed his story and I felt connected to it. Sam was at times a bit hard to connect to since she didn’t know the whole story and was catching up to it just as we were while Holden held the missing pieces. The chemistry Holden and Sam had was good and enjoyable. I loved how their story got a realistic ending with a touch of happiness rather than everything being over the top amazing.
At the end of the day I believe this is very suitable for a fall read since it’s dark, edgy and offers a few rays of sunshine with its hope and romantic plotline. I was happy to witness Sam’s victory over darkness and sorrow. She had the possibility to experience two very different loves and I enjoyed reading about both of them. I think this novel is worth a try and I’m happy to have enjoyed it as much as I did. By the way, I saw on Goodreads that it's marked as a part of a series, but I do believe it's a stand-alone. Perhaps there'll be some companion novels in the future.
More of my reviews can be found my blog.
As much as I'm doing this trip for Tyler, truth is, I'm doing it for me, too. I'm tired of being scared. Sick of living in fear. I'm doing this to set Tyler free, yes, to help him cross over--but deep down, I know it's about more.
I need to cross over, too.
To the living.
The story. Sam is depressed. Like.. really in a dark place and all that’s keeping her together is her dead boyfriend’s ghost Tyler. Who others say is a hallucination. Sam is sure he’s not and she is determined to bring his soul to peace by going on a road trip to take his ashes everywhere he wanted to travel. Only problem is, she has to go with Holden or not go at all. Why is this a problem? Let’s see.. Holden is Tyler’s brother and when they were younger, Sam was helplessly in love with him until he broke her hear. Now, spending even five minutes in a room with him seems insurmountable.
My thoughts. I found this to be really intriguing; hopeless; dark. I loved the last book I read that featured a road trip and that was The Edge of Never. While The Darkest Part didn’t exactly reach the level of awesomeness that was Camryn and Andrew’s story, I did truly enjoy it. When we met Sam, she was in a really dark place and I didn’t see any way possible for her to feel alive again. Everything she had dreamed about had vanished into thin air and now she has to cope with it all alone. I’m glad Holden was there to support her. Speaking of Holden..
Holden was the heart of the story for me. Even though Tyler is long gone, his presence still lingers and it was great to watch unfinished business between the brothers work itself out and Holden get relief from years of guilt and horrible memories. I believed his story and I felt connected to it. Sam was at times a bit hard to connect to since she didn’t know the whole story and was catching up to it just as we were while Holden held the missing pieces. The chemistry Holden and Sam had was good and enjoyable. I loved how their story got a realistic ending with a touch of happiness rather than everything being over the top amazing.
At the end of the day I believe this is very suitable for a fall read since it’s dark, edgy and offers a few rays of sunshine with its hope and romantic plotline. I was happy to witness Sam’s victory over darkness and sorrow. She had the possibility to experience two very different loves and I enjoyed reading about both of them. I think this novel is worth a try and I’m happy to have enjoyed it as much as I did. By the way, I saw on Goodreads that it's marked as a part of a series, but I do believe it's a stand-alone. Perhaps there'll be some companion novels in the future.
More of my reviews can be found my blog.
January 4, 2016
Here's a good story that draws you in - nicely paced - characters with depth. Trisha Wolfe played with this idea of psychosis versus actual paranormal activity here very well. Nobody was ever quite sure which it was, characters and reader alike.
With the New Adult genre, the characters can get a bit angsty at times. For me, the language here tended to be a bit overmuch. But then you have the plot, which was really good! There were several elements that surprised me. The tension that Wolfe kept until the end was great, revealing each thing little by little without driving us crazy.
And overall, I did like the way the relationship unfolded. It was gradual and appropriate given the time frame.
This book was self published with some errors, but it was nothing that stood in the way of the story. It's a good story and pretty well told. I think this can hold its own with most of the big-publisher NA's out there.
This is also included briefly in a wrap-up I did of several NA contemporary books: http://youtu.be/mnHmLl-Wbxk?list=UU3S...
With the New Adult genre, the characters can get a bit angsty at times. For me, the language here tended to be a bit overmuch. But then you have the plot, which was really good! There were several elements that surprised me. The tension that Wolfe kept until the end was great, revealing each thing little by little without driving us crazy.
And overall, I did like the way the relationship unfolded. It was gradual and appropriate given the time frame.
This book was self published with some errors, but it was nothing that stood in the way of the story. It's a good story and pretty well told. I think this can hold its own with most of the big-publisher NA's out there.
This is also included briefly in a wrap-up I did of several NA contemporary books: http://youtu.be/mnHmLl-Wbxk?list=UU3S...
February 20, 2015
Siento que las tres estrellas son injustas, pero hubo muchos idas y vueltas (y una resolución muy rápida) durante el libro que me dieron ganas de dejarlo. Lo único que lo evitó fue el "gran secreto" que tenían.
A pesar de eso, es un muy buen libro y... ¡HOLDEN TIENE UN ARITO EN EL LABIO!
A pesar de eso, es un muy buen libro y... ¡HOLDEN TIENE UN ARITO EN EL LABIO!
October 26, 2016
3.5 stars
September 24, 2013
Things like this , horrible tragedies they have to have a reason why. Something or someone has to be the cause. Because I can't go on in a world where horrible things happen for no reason at all.
Trisha Wolfe is an amazing author. Her characters are all written so that they become a part of you. You are there in the pages of the book right along with them experiencing every emotion that they are feeling. The highs, the lows, the happy, the sad, the heartbreaking, the love and the heat. There is nothing more fulfilling then finishing a book and having that feeling of contentment. Yes, you've ran the gamut of emotions, but in the end you got just what you wanted. That is what you get when you read a Trisha Wolfe book.
Childhood friends Sam and Tyler were supposed to be married. They were supposed to live a long and happy life together. They had their honeymoon all mapped out. But Sam's world is ripped apart when Tyler is killed in a hit and run accident. How do you possibly go on when all your plans, hopes and dreams have been shattered? How do you act normal in the world when you are clinging to the ghost of the man you love who has been visiting you since his death? In Sam's case, that grip on reality is slipping. Her family are worried. She refuses to leave the house other than to go to visit her therapist. In fact she barely leaves her room and all that keeps her going are Tyler's visits. But she soon comes to the realisation that she needs to help Tyler cross over to the other side and the way to do that is to take the trip that her and Tyler had planned and spread Tyler's ashes along the way. So she enlists the help of Tyler's brother Holden. He agrees to get her Tyler's ashes on the condition that he takes the road trip with her.
I want to own her. Every last bit of her, I want to make mine. I want to do so much more than just be with her.
Sam and Holden are both damaged. Their time together on this road trip is spent making discoveries, learning secrets and reliving memories. They fight and they test each other. They face old feelings and new. When I first started reading The Darkest Part I was so captivated with Tyler, I couldn't see how I was going to feel anything for Holden. But boy didn't that change quickly!! Holden has been cast as the black sheep of his family. The bad boy with tattoo's and a lip ring. Wanting nothing to do with his father or the family business he has forged his own path in life. But Holden has secrets. So many heartbreaking secrets!! The things that he has been carrying around on his shoulders would be enough to crush anyone. But he is so caring and loving. Trisha Wolfe is an expert at writing hot, swoony males and Holden Marks is the cream of the crop.
Sam's pain over losing Tyler was so real. She was so broken down by losing him. There were different scenes throughout the book where my heart broke for her. I could picture what everyone was seeing when they looked at her in my mind so clearly. The girl who was slowly losing her grip on reality. She is passionate and strong willed. She loves completely. Her and Holden were so perfect together. I loved the way their relationship developed. I loved that it was so up and down. I loved the way they loved!!!
"I'll love you so hard it will make your head spin"
The Darkest Part is about two people who have experienced the very lows of life finding their way through all that has been thrown at them. It's about letting go when all you really want to do is hold on, but it's also about love and second chances.
If you love New Adult contemporary romance, then The Darkest Part is one that you must read. One of my favourite reads this year!!
5/5 Amazing Holden Stars.
Trisha Wolfe is an amazing author. Her characters are all written so that they become a part of you. You are there in the pages of the book right along with them experiencing every emotion that they are feeling. The highs, the lows, the happy, the sad, the heartbreaking, the love and the heat. There is nothing more fulfilling then finishing a book and having that feeling of contentment. Yes, you've ran the gamut of emotions, but in the end you got just what you wanted. That is what you get when you read a Trisha Wolfe book.
Childhood friends Sam and Tyler were supposed to be married. They were supposed to live a long and happy life together. They had their honeymoon all mapped out. But Sam's world is ripped apart when Tyler is killed in a hit and run accident. How do you possibly go on when all your plans, hopes and dreams have been shattered? How do you act normal in the world when you are clinging to the ghost of the man you love who has been visiting you since his death? In Sam's case, that grip on reality is slipping. Her family are worried. She refuses to leave the house other than to go to visit her therapist. In fact she barely leaves her room and all that keeps her going are Tyler's visits. But she soon comes to the realisation that she needs to help Tyler cross over to the other side and the way to do that is to take the trip that her and Tyler had planned and spread Tyler's ashes along the way. So she enlists the help of Tyler's brother Holden. He agrees to get her Tyler's ashes on the condition that he takes the road trip with her.
I want to own her. Every last bit of her, I want to make mine. I want to do so much more than just be with her.
Sam and Holden are both damaged. Their time together on this road trip is spent making discoveries, learning secrets and reliving memories. They fight and they test each other. They face old feelings and new. When I first started reading The Darkest Part I was so captivated with Tyler, I couldn't see how I was going to feel anything for Holden. But boy didn't that change quickly!! Holden has been cast as the black sheep of his family. The bad boy with tattoo's and a lip ring. Wanting nothing to do with his father or the family business he has forged his own path in life. But Holden has secrets. So many heartbreaking secrets!! The things that he has been carrying around on his shoulders would be enough to crush anyone. But he is so caring and loving. Trisha Wolfe is an expert at writing hot, swoony males and Holden Marks is the cream of the crop.
Sam's pain over losing Tyler was so real. She was so broken down by losing him. There were different scenes throughout the book where my heart broke for her. I could picture what everyone was seeing when they looked at her in my mind so clearly. The girl who was slowly losing her grip on reality. She is passionate and strong willed. She loves completely. Her and Holden were so perfect together. I loved the way their relationship developed. I loved that it was so up and down. I loved the way they loved!!!
"I'll love you so hard it will make your head spin"
The Darkest Part is about two people who have experienced the very lows of life finding their way through all that has been thrown at them. It's about letting go when all you really want to do is hold on, but it's also about love and second chances.
If you love New Adult contemporary romance, then The Darkest Part is one that you must read. One of my favourite reads this year!!
5/5 Amazing Holden Stars.
September 11, 2013
I first picked up this book because of the many great reviews I saw for it on Goodreads. I liked the way this book started, I instantly felt connected to the characters and felt for their loss (seriously, I nearly cried by the 3rd chapter). But then the story went in a direction that I really just couldn’t get on board with.
When I first read this books blurb I was like “getting together with your dead finance’s brother? That’s messed up.” But I was intrigued. I read some really good reviews about it and wanted to see where the author went with the idea. But I was disappointed by how it was executed. The author was trying to constantly justify the relationship by pointing out that Sam and Holden did have a relationship before, but I disagree that one make out session in the rain 5 years ago counts as a relationship. There was also some downplaying of Sam and Tyler’s relationship towards the end that really bothered me. Just because Tyler is now dead and you’re moving on doesn’t mean that one love has to be better than the other! But that’s what I felt like I was being told. After Sam and Holden get together suddenly there’s a “Tyler and I were growing apart” speech and comparisons between the two, claiming Holden could reach her on a level that Tyler never got. I just don’t think that’s really fair.
I also originally thought the idea behind this story was really cool. A girl diagnosed with psychosis after her fiance dies? Pretty deep stuff. And Sam has problems. Serious mental problems. She’d been with Tyler since she was 15 years old and been best friends with him since they were in diapers. So naturally Tyler was a serious part of her life and tied up in her very soul, of course she nearly lost her mind when he died! So here’s my problem: she moved on WAY too fast. She jumped from one relationship to the next before she was even taking her meds regularly! It’s weird. Holden shouldn’t be jumping into a relationship with someone who clearly needs to get her mind in order. It just felt unrealistic and really bothered me! Sam needs to discover who she is on her own before she becomes totally dependent on another guy!! I would have preferred it if Holden and Sam could have formed more of a close friendship on their road trip by getting to know each other and working out their issues before they began having sex.
However there were things I liked…
I loved Holden! His brutal honesty was really appreciated. There was no sugar coating anything Holden had to say. I also loved how totally full of himself he was…
Holden’s point of view chapters were my favourite in the book. He had a funny yet serious inner voice that I really enjoyed.
I also genuinely liked the big secret in the book. This secret certainly has a massive shock component to it, and since I’ve read a lot of books with lame and disappointing secrets, I thought this one was really great.
Oh and the sex scenes were massively hot. And I meant H-O-T-T HOT. Seriously turned up the heat. But unfortunately it still wasn’t enough to make me love, or even really like this book :/ This story just wasn’t for me.
When I first read this books blurb I was like “getting together with your dead finance’s brother? That’s messed up.” But I was intrigued. I read some really good reviews about it and wanted to see where the author went with the idea. But I was disappointed by how it was executed. The author was trying to constantly justify the relationship by pointing out that Sam and Holden did have a relationship before, but I disagree that one make out session in the rain 5 years ago counts as a relationship. There was also some downplaying of Sam and Tyler’s relationship towards the end that really bothered me. Just because Tyler is now dead and you’re moving on doesn’t mean that one love has to be better than the other! But that’s what I felt like I was being told. After Sam and Holden get together suddenly there’s a “Tyler and I were growing apart” speech and comparisons between the two, claiming Holden could reach her on a level that Tyler never got. I just don’t think that’s really fair.
I also originally thought the idea behind this story was really cool. A girl diagnosed with psychosis after her fiance dies? Pretty deep stuff. And Sam has problems. Serious mental problems. She’d been with Tyler since she was 15 years old and been best friends with him since they were in diapers. So naturally Tyler was a serious part of her life and tied up in her very soul, of course she nearly lost her mind when he died! So here’s my problem: she moved on WAY too fast. She jumped from one relationship to the next before she was even taking her meds regularly! It’s weird. Holden shouldn’t be jumping into a relationship with someone who clearly needs to get her mind in order. It just felt unrealistic and really bothered me! Sam needs to discover who she is on her own before she becomes totally dependent on another guy!! I would have preferred it if Holden and Sam could have formed more of a close friendship on their road trip by getting to know each other and working out their issues before they began having sex.
However there were things I liked…
I loved Holden! His brutal honesty was really appreciated. There was no sugar coating anything Holden had to say. I also loved how totally full of himself he was…
“I drop my feet to the floor and then saunter, like the sex god that I am, to the bathroom.”
Holden’s point of view chapters were my favourite in the book. He had a funny yet serious inner voice that I really enjoyed.
I also genuinely liked the big secret in the book. This secret certainly has a massive shock component to it, and since I’ve read a lot of books with lame and disappointing secrets, I thought this one was really great.
Oh and the sex scenes were massively hot. And I meant H-O-T-T HOT. Seriously turned up the heat. But unfortunately it still wasn’t enough to make me love, or even really like this book :/ This story just wasn’t for me.
August 14, 2013
"The way I see it, the heartwood is strong, beautiful, and resilient. It can fight off any outside threat that tries to invade, and in rare cases... is alive. It may be the darkest part, but a living heartwood is a force to be reckoned with."
This story was definitely not what I expected it to be. Yes, this one's pretty similar to Jasinda Wilder's Falling Into You but it's definitely not the same. Call me a masochist but for some reason, I'm just really drawn to this kind of tragic stories and this one definitely did not disappoint in making me tear up.
That said, I was quite shocked that the author was brave enough to actually include a rather paranormal touch to the story... even though I'm such a huge fan of her paranormal romance novels. I just didn't expect it from a new adult story but nevertheless, I have to say that it worked to the story's advantage and more than anything... those scenes are the ones that really broke my heart. And then, there's the whole mystery aspect of the story as well. Holden and Sam were all about finding out the truth behind Tyler's sudden death and I loved that I really wasn't able to correctly predict what really happened. Oh, and let's not forget the romance brewing between Holden and Sam. The fact that they had a sort of history made me warm up to them more even though there was an air of wrongness to what they're feeling towards each other because of Tyler.
"Sam, you're what helped him through his darkness. You were his heaven on earth. And you're still looking out for him, even in death."
Let it be known that I did love this story but I do think that it still had so much potential in becoming an earth-shattering story, especially since the author delved in paranormal and mystery/suspense concepts already. The story's length proved to be a disadvantage in my opinion because there were still a lot of things that puzzled me and questions left unanswered and unresolved. I really felt short-handed a bit because I wanted more of , more depth and insight into Holden's character and persona as well as a deeper understanding of what Holden and Tyler went through in their household. The story felt more like a shortcut to me and that's what hindered it from being completely compelling and captivating. It's like towards the end, the author just wrote what I should be feeling and thinking instead of letting me feel it through the story development. Le sigh. But hey, I'm still pretty much a fan of Trisha Wolfe. I still recommend this read because it's definitely a unique new adult story that's worth getting lost in.
This story was definitely not what I expected it to be. Yes, this one's pretty similar to Jasinda Wilder's Falling Into You but it's definitely not the same. Call me a masochist but for some reason, I'm just really drawn to this kind of tragic stories and this one definitely did not disappoint in making me tear up.
That said, I was quite shocked that the author was brave enough to actually include a rather paranormal touch to the story... even though I'm such a huge fan of her paranormal romance novels. I just didn't expect it from a new adult story but nevertheless, I have to say that it worked to the story's advantage and more than anything... those scenes are the ones that really broke my heart. And then, there's the whole mystery aspect of the story as well. Holden and Sam were all about finding out the truth behind Tyler's sudden death and I loved that I really wasn't able to correctly predict what really happened. Oh, and let's not forget the romance brewing between Holden and Sam. The fact that they had a sort of history made me warm up to them more even though there was an air of wrongness to what they're feeling towards each other because of Tyler.
"Sam, you're what helped him through his darkness. You were his heaven on earth. And you're still looking out for him, even in death."
Let it be known that I did love this story but I do think that it still had so much potential in becoming an earth-shattering story, especially since the author delved in paranormal and mystery/suspense concepts already. The story's length proved to be a disadvantage in my opinion because there were still a lot of things that puzzled me and questions left unanswered and unresolved. I really felt short-handed a bit because I wanted more of , more depth and insight into Holden's character and persona as well as a deeper understanding of what Holden and Tyler went through in their household. The story felt more like a shortcut to me and that's what hindered it from being completely compelling and captivating. It's like towards the end, the author just wrote what I should be feeling and thinking instead of letting me feel it through the story development. Le sigh. But hey, I'm still pretty much a fan of Trisha Wolfe. I still recommend this read because it's definitely a unique new adult story that's worth getting lost in.
August 15, 2013
A beautiful, heart-wrenching story about how one event can change the outcome of your life, how one choice can impact another and how you must move on from the past in order to be free.
This follows the story of Sam whose childhood best friend turned boyfriend, Tyler, recently died in a car accident. Reeling from her loss she is considered mentally unstable by those around her as she believes she can still see the boy she lost.
Holden, Tyler's brother, returns in order to discover the truth behind his brother's death, and instead runs into Sam, a girl he loved and left behind all those years ago.
Both with take a journey together through time, and learn the key to moving on in life is to uncover the secrets and let the truth set them free. But in this case some of these truths will be harder to face than either of them could ever imagine. One fighting for sanity, one fighting against guilt… they will learn it takes love and each other to heal their broken hearts.
I really enjoyed this read, and I won't give away the secrets but let me tell you I loved the path they both traveled together and I loved how both memories and words in a diary were written to delve into the character's past. The changes in POV's also helped carry the storyline along and allowed us to fully comprehend all sides. Although I do wish we could have read more about Tyler's story.
Really enjoyed!
This follows the story of Sam whose childhood best friend turned boyfriend, Tyler, recently died in a car accident. Reeling from her loss she is considered mentally unstable by those around her as she believes she can still see the boy she lost.
Holden, Tyler's brother, returns in order to discover the truth behind his brother's death, and instead runs into Sam, a girl he loved and left behind all those years ago.
Both with take a journey together through time, and learn the key to moving on in life is to uncover the secrets and let the truth set them free. But in this case some of these truths will be harder to face than either of them could ever imagine. One fighting for sanity, one fighting against guilt… they will learn it takes love and each other to heal their broken hearts.
I really enjoyed this read, and I won't give away the secrets but let me tell you I loved the path they both traveled together and I loved how both memories and words in a diary were written to delve into the character's past. The changes in POV's also helped carry the storyline along and allowed us to fully comprehend all sides. Although I do wish we could have read more about Tyler's story.
Really enjoyed!
January 19, 2015
3.5 stars, good but not exactly my favorite.
Mostly because the idea of still clinging with the past, especially a "ghost", is kind of rubbing me in the wrong way. Because I knew it'll never gonna end up happy. But this book, surprisingly, I enjoyed it.
Sam's family is questioning her sanity when she admit that she starts seeing Tyler's ghost. Tyler, her fiance, is dead before they got married. But Sam is sure that she's indeed, seeing Tyler's ghost. And then to make her last goodbye, she decides to do a road trip to scatter his ashes in a place that Tyler would have loved. But then suddenly, Holden is back. Holden is Tyler's older brother who secretly, had a past with Sam. Both of this scarred young people, are in for a journey of revelation.
It's a bit predictable, to be honest, because I have read this style of storyline before, in Jasinda Wilder's book (I can't remember the title). That's why I'm not exactly surprised by the twist. But I do enjoyed the author style of writing, because it's been quite a while since I read New Adult books so this one's pretty much refreshing.
Overall I liked it, I also liked how Holden behave around Sam. He's a great guy. Look forward to read another book by this author!
Mostly because the idea of still clinging with the past, especially a "ghost", is kind of rubbing me in the wrong way. Because I knew it'll never gonna end up happy. But this book, surprisingly, I enjoyed it.
Sam's family is questioning her sanity when she admit that she starts seeing Tyler's ghost. Tyler, her fiance, is dead before they got married. But Sam is sure that she's indeed, seeing Tyler's ghost. And then to make her last goodbye, she decides to do a road trip to scatter his ashes in a place that Tyler would have loved. But then suddenly, Holden is back. Holden is Tyler's older brother who secretly, had a past with Sam. Both of this scarred young people, are in for a journey of revelation.
It's a bit predictable, to be honest, because I have read this style of storyline before, in Jasinda Wilder's book (I can't remember the title). That's why I'm not exactly surprised by the twist. But I do enjoyed the author style of writing, because it's been quite a while since I read New Adult books so this one's pretty much refreshing.
Overall I liked it, I also liked how Holden behave around Sam. He's a great guy. Look forward to read another book by this author!
August 4, 2014
***Review posted on The Eater of Books! blog***
The Darkest Part by Trisha Wolfe
Book One of the Living Heartwood series
Publication Date: August 6, 2013
Rating: 3 stars
Source: eARC from the author
Summary (from Goodreads):
Pressing the boundaries of both the psyche and the heart, Sam and Holden embark on a dangerous journey that will test the limits of love.
Sam Wintry’s life used to be almost perfect. She was engaged to her childhood best friend and high school sweetheart, Tyler Marks, planning an amazing cross-country honeymoon during her college break. But after a hit-and-run leaves her in ruin, she begins seeing Tyler’s fractured, ghostly presence, and her family believes she’s losing her mind. Not until she completes their journey, stopping along the way to scatter Tyler's remains, will Tyler be able cross over. Only...is Sam ready for him to leave her?
When the black sheep of the Marks' family, Holden Marks, returns to check on Tyler's case, Sam convinces him to give her his brother's ashes. Despite their shaky history, she needs him...plus, he owes it to Sam and his brother. What she doesn’t count on is Holden’s relentlessness to go on the trip.
On the road, Holden realizes just how unhinged Sam has become. Dealing with her psychosis forces him to confront his dark past, making it harder to keep secrets hidden that should remain buried. Especially from Sam, the only woman he’s ever loved. And as Sam starts to unravel the truth, she begins to question if the brother she's unwillingly falling for again is in an even darker place than her.
What I Liked:
You all KNOW that I am a fan of Trisha Wolfe, yes? I loved her fantasy novel, Of Silver and Beasts (and I cannot wait for Of Darkness and Crowns). Trisha has a way of creating a beautiful, intricate story, with tough, interesting characters, and a swoony, sweet romance.
But anyway. I was apprehensive about this book, because I usually dislike New Adult contemporary romance novels. They seem like the same story, over and over, right? And yet, somehow, authors are making a ton of money with New Adult contemporary romance stories, even though the stories seem recycled!
But it's Trisha's novel, and I am SO GLAD that I gave this book a chance! I didn't love this book - it wasn't life-changing for me - but I really enjoyed it. This book is definitely a different kind of New Adult contemporary romance. There was a dark, raw edge to this book, and it wasn't about rape or abuse or anything that most NA contemporary romance include.
Sam is suffering, because her boyfriend and fiance died five months ago from a hit-and-run accident. The sad thing is, she's totally seeing his ghost. It's all a figment of her imagination, a product of broken psyche. Everyone thinks she's crazy... and she totally is. Sam is the only one who fervently believes that she isn't insane, that Tyler's ghost is real, and that she can see him and hear him.
Things begin to unravel when Holden, Tyler's brother and Sam's first crush, comes back to town. Sam and Holden are slightly at odds, but they strike up a terse agreement, and agree to go on a roadtrip together (there is so much more to the story than that, but I'm just giving an overview).
Basically, this book is one long roadtrip. Actually, I think it's a week long. But the entire book is the roadtrip involving Sam and Holden. During this time, we get to see how tormented both of them really are. Both of them have so much to handle, in their own ways. Both of them have self-inflicted problems, and both of them are in denial about something.
I didn't LOVE Sam in this book - in fact, I probably disliked her a little. She's a weak person throughout the book, in terms of her personality, and even in the end, she still seems weak. I feel like her character development wasn't all that great. Like, she came to a certain decision at the end... but it didn't feel like she went through the long process and came to that decision. It felt like she just pulled it out of nowhere.
But I really liked Holden. He's not flashed in front of us as the typical New Adult contemporary romance male protagonist. He's hot, yes, and he has a ton of tattoos, but he's not thrust out of the pages, teeming with abs and cocky grins and melty voices and arrogant swaggers. He is complex and twisted in his own way, and not a total alpha male (though there are some alpha male parts of his personality that shined through the story).
The story is kind of slow, and the pacing is slow, but I enjoyed the story. I enjoyed the psychological progression of Sam's healing. I really liked the dual points-of-view, but I feel like that's a prerequisite for New Adult contemporary romance novels. I love the perspective that feature adds to the story though!
Overall, I enjoyed this book. I probably won't be re-reading this book a billion times, but I am so happy that I got a chance to read it!
What I Did Not Like:
Well... we all know how I feel about people and their bulls***. In this book, Sam definitely puts out a lotttttttt of bulls***. She's crazy in the worst way possible, after Tyler's death. I totally understand that there are psychological ramifications to a traumatizing event such as death, but I have zero tolerance for bulls***.
And Sam has a lot of problems. And bulls***. And I got irritated with her a lot. But I understand and can empathize. That made this book easier to read.
I feel like the characters in this book don't communicate very well, until the very end. This is a problem with most New Adult contemporary romance books though. The guy and the girl never really explain how they feel, until the very end of the book. I can see why this appeals to authors - it shows growth in the characters - but at the same time, so many books feature characters that don't communicate well. I mean, not EVERYONE has a hard time expressing s***.
Would I Recommend It:
This is a good read! I would recommend to New Adult contemporary romance lovers, but also to people who like a book with a solid romance and heartbreaking plot. This book isn't all about what one would think about, when referring to an NA contemporary romance novel. So, there are so many audiences for this book!
Rating:
3.5 stars -> rounded down to 3 stars. This is definitely NOT your typical New Adult contemporary romance novel!
The Darkest Part by Trisha Wolfe
Book One of the Living Heartwood series
Publication Date: August 6, 2013
Rating: 3 stars
Source: eARC from the author
Summary (from Goodreads):
Pressing the boundaries of both the psyche and the heart, Sam and Holden embark on a dangerous journey that will test the limits of love.
Sam Wintry’s life used to be almost perfect. She was engaged to her childhood best friend and high school sweetheart, Tyler Marks, planning an amazing cross-country honeymoon during her college break. But after a hit-and-run leaves her in ruin, she begins seeing Tyler’s fractured, ghostly presence, and her family believes she’s losing her mind. Not until she completes their journey, stopping along the way to scatter Tyler's remains, will Tyler be able cross over. Only...is Sam ready for him to leave her?
When the black sheep of the Marks' family, Holden Marks, returns to check on Tyler's case, Sam convinces him to give her his brother's ashes. Despite their shaky history, she needs him...plus, he owes it to Sam and his brother. What she doesn’t count on is Holden’s relentlessness to go on the trip.
On the road, Holden realizes just how unhinged Sam has become. Dealing with her psychosis forces him to confront his dark past, making it harder to keep secrets hidden that should remain buried. Especially from Sam, the only woman he’s ever loved. And as Sam starts to unravel the truth, she begins to question if the brother she's unwillingly falling for again is in an even darker place than her.
What I Liked:
You all KNOW that I am a fan of Trisha Wolfe, yes? I loved her fantasy novel, Of Silver and Beasts (and I cannot wait for Of Darkness and Crowns). Trisha has a way of creating a beautiful, intricate story, with tough, interesting characters, and a swoony, sweet romance.
But anyway. I was apprehensive about this book, because I usually dislike New Adult contemporary romance novels. They seem like the same story, over and over, right? And yet, somehow, authors are making a ton of money with New Adult contemporary romance stories, even though the stories seem recycled!
But it's Trisha's novel, and I am SO GLAD that I gave this book a chance! I didn't love this book - it wasn't life-changing for me - but I really enjoyed it. This book is definitely a different kind of New Adult contemporary romance. There was a dark, raw edge to this book, and it wasn't about rape or abuse or anything that most NA contemporary romance include.
Sam is suffering, because her boyfriend and fiance died five months ago from a hit-and-run accident. The sad thing is, she's totally seeing his ghost. It's all a figment of her imagination, a product of broken psyche. Everyone thinks she's crazy... and she totally is. Sam is the only one who fervently believes that she isn't insane, that Tyler's ghost is real, and that she can see him and hear him.
Things begin to unravel when Holden, Tyler's brother and Sam's first crush, comes back to town. Sam and Holden are slightly at odds, but they strike up a terse agreement, and agree to go on a roadtrip together (there is so much more to the story than that, but I'm just giving an overview).
Basically, this book is one long roadtrip. Actually, I think it's a week long. But the entire book is the roadtrip involving Sam and Holden. During this time, we get to see how tormented both of them really are. Both of them have so much to handle, in their own ways. Both of them have self-inflicted problems, and both of them are in denial about something.
I didn't LOVE Sam in this book - in fact, I probably disliked her a little. She's a weak person throughout the book, in terms of her personality, and even in the end, she still seems weak. I feel like her character development wasn't all that great. Like, she came to a certain decision at the end... but it didn't feel like she went through the long process and came to that decision. It felt like she just pulled it out of nowhere.
But I really liked Holden. He's not flashed in front of us as the typical New Adult contemporary romance male protagonist. He's hot, yes, and he has a ton of tattoos, but he's not thrust out of the pages, teeming with abs and cocky grins and melty voices and arrogant swaggers. He is complex and twisted in his own way, and not a total alpha male (though there are some alpha male parts of his personality that shined through the story).
The story is kind of slow, and the pacing is slow, but I enjoyed the story. I enjoyed the psychological progression of Sam's healing. I really liked the dual points-of-view, but I feel like that's a prerequisite for New Adult contemporary romance novels. I love the perspective that feature adds to the story though!
Overall, I enjoyed this book. I probably won't be re-reading this book a billion times, but I am so happy that I got a chance to read it!
What I Did Not Like:
Well... we all know how I feel about people and their bulls***. In this book, Sam definitely puts out a lotttttttt of bulls***. She's crazy in the worst way possible, after Tyler's death. I totally understand that there are psychological ramifications to a traumatizing event such as death, but I have zero tolerance for bulls***.
And Sam has a lot of problems. And bulls***. And I got irritated with her a lot. But I understand and can empathize. That made this book easier to read.
I feel like the characters in this book don't communicate very well, until the very end. This is a problem with most New Adult contemporary romance books though. The guy and the girl never really explain how they feel, until the very end of the book. I can see why this appeals to authors - it shows growth in the characters - but at the same time, so many books feature characters that don't communicate well. I mean, not EVERYONE has a hard time expressing s***.
Would I Recommend It:
This is a good read! I would recommend to New Adult contemporary romance lovers, but also to people who like a book with a solid romance and heartbreaking plot. This book isn't all about what one would think about, when referring to an NA contemporary romance novel. So, there are so many audiences for this book!
Rating:
3.5 stars -> rounded down to 3 stars. This is definitely NOT your typical New Adult contemporary romance novel!
September 27, 2013
Lindy's Thoughts
The Darkest Part by Trisha Wolfe was such a beautiful story about first love that is lost and then found, with heartbreak, secrets, finding yourself, and learning how to pick up the pieces when your life doesn't turn out the way you had always planned or thought it would. Ms. Wolfe writes the most beautiful prose. Her words have a poetic quality to them and painted beautiful pictures in my head. This story was difficult for me to read, because it was so realistic of life and the devastation of loss.
Sam was one of the lucky ones. She met, and fell in love with her best friend when she was young. They were going to get married, and had their lives planned out. Then, Tyler was killed in a hit and run, and Sam went into a deep, dark place that she couldn't get out of. She dropped out of college, and her life didn't make sense anymore without Tyler in it. She starts seeing Tyler and talking to his spirit, which causes her family to become concerned about her mental health. After Sam does research on spirits, she believes that the only way to set Tyler's spirit free is to take the road trip that her and Tyler had planned for their honeymoon, and spread his ashes along the way. Tyler's older brother Holden offers to steal Tyler's ashes, if she let's him go with her. As they take this road trip together, and Sam reads excerpts from Tyler's journal, she discovers that he kept secrets from her, that Holden has always been in love with her, and that in order to move on from her loss, she needs to be strong, and embark on her own spiritual journey.
The Darkest Part made me cry my eyes out for the loss and pain that Sam endured with both the death of Tyler, and the life of innocence that she lost. It made me swoon for Holden, who was selfless, compassionate, loyal, sexy, took on everyone else's pain, and sacrificed his own happiness for those he loved. Sam and Holden learned a lot on their road trip with one another. What makes this book so special is how authentic it is to real life. This story was fast paced, had amazing three-dimensional characters, gave us the dual perspectives of Sam and Holden, and had plot twists that not only held my attention throughout the entire story, but kept me guessing where the story would lead.
My Rating
I give The Darkest Part, by Trisha Wolfe, 4.5 Raw, Gritty, Deep, Poetic, and Passionate Stars! You will be able to connect with this story, as it relates to the harsh realities of life, loss, betrayal, and tragedy. However, you will also be able to relate to the beauty that life has to offer, such as friendship, love, passion, self discovery, strength, and self-actualization. The Darkest Part was such an honest, unique, beautiful, and memorable story.
My Favorite Quote
"I pull back just enough to whisper, I'm going to make love to you now. Her eyes flick to mine. I don't want sweet, Holden. That would be fake. I need to feel every emotion. Every raw, grating, painful emotion we've ever felt, and every bit of the desire and love we've denied ourselves." (eARC, Loc. 3191)
~Sam & Holden
*To Read More Book Reviews, Visit A Bookish Escape at http://www.abookishescape.com
The Darkest Part by Trisha Wolfe was such a beautiful story about first love that is lost and then found, with heartbreak, secrets, finding yourself, and learning how to pick up the pieces when your life doesn't turn out the way you had always planned or thought it would. Ms. Wolfe writes the most beautiful prose. Her words have a poetic quality to them and painted beautiful pictures in my head. This story was difficult for me to read, because it was so realistic of life and the devastation of loss.
Sam was one of the lucky ones. She met, and fell in love with her best friend when she was young. They were going to get married, and had their lives planned out. Then, Tyler was killed in a hit and run, and Sam went into a deep, dark place that she couldn't get out of. She dropped out of college, and her life didn't make sense anymore without Tyler in it. She starts seeing Tyler and talking to his spirit, which causes her family to become concerned about her mental health. After Sam does research on spirits, she believes that the only way to set Tyler's spirit free is to take the road trip that her and Tyler had planned for their honeymoon, and spread his ashes along the way. Tyler's older brother Holden offers to steal Tyler's ashes, if she let's him go with her. As they take this road trip together, and Sam reads excerpts from Tyler's journal, she discovers that he kept secrets from her, that Holden has always been in love with her, and that in order to move on from her loss, she needs to be strong, and embark on her own spiritual journey.
The Darkest Part made me cry my eyes out for the loss and pain that Sam endured with both the death of Tyler, and the life of innocence that she lost. It made me swoon for Holden, who was selfless, compassionate, loyal, sexy, took on everyone else's pain, and sacrificed his own happiness for those he loved. Sam and Holden learned a lot on their road trip with one another. What makes this book so special is how authentic it is to real life. This story was fast paced, had amazing three-dimensional characters, gave us the dual perspectives of Sam and Holden, and had plot twists that not only held my attention throughout the entire story, but kept me guessing where the story would lead.
My Rating
I give The Darkest Part, by Trisha Wolfe, 4.5 Raw, Gritty, Deep, Poetic, and Passionate Stars! You will be able to connect with this story, as it relates to the harsh realities of life, loss, betrayal, and tragedy. However, you will also be able to relate to the beauty that life has to offer, such as friendship, love, passion, self discovery, strength, and self-actualization. The Darkest Part was such an honest, unique, beautiful, and memorable story.
My Favorite Quote
"I pull back just enough to whisper, I'm going to make love to you now. Her eyes flick to mine. I don't want sweet, Holden. That would be fake. I need to feel every emotion. Every raw, grating, painful emotion we've ever felt, and every bit of the desire and love we've denied ourselves." (eARC, Loc. 3191)
~Sam & Holden
*To Read More Book Reviews, Visit A Bookish Escape at http://www.abookishescape.com
August 30, 2013
For more reviews go here: Book Fixation
*A copy was provided by the author in exchange of a fair and honest review.*
The Darkest Part was... Wow I don't even know were to start honestly! I think this is the first book to make me feel so many emotions. From anger, to confusion, to love, EVERYTHING.
We have Sam, whose worlds comes crashing down Tyler, her boyfriend/best friend, dies during a hit and run. She then starts seeing his ghost and Sam begins to lose focus on her life. So yeah she is not handling his death well. She is determined to help Tyler's ghost cross over by dropping his ashes on the places they were supposed to visit when they went on their honeymoon road-trip. Holden, Tyler's older brother, also decides to go on the road-trip with her. Helping Tyler cross over is one of their plans but both characters are also planning to get to move on and let go.
The thing about this book is that it makes you doubt. At some moment I was pretty sure that Sam really had a mental illness but at some times I said to myself, "Could this really be his ghost?" Is it really a mental illness or is it a twist of magic? You'll have to read to find out!
Then we have the beautiful Holden. Holden and Sam have a story of their on. I wasn't expecting their history. But it makes the story even more better! Holden is mysterious, Holden had secrets. But Holden also has a great heart and I fell for him hard. His love for Sam is powerful. The slow build to their relationship was great and it has you aching for them to come together. But trust me when I say that they have a LOT to overcome before they can be together. At some times I just wanted to reach into the book and hug both these characters!
Sam is trying to deal with Tyler's death and move on from him but that also isn't easy with Holden around. He brings old feelings to the surface and makes her more confused. Not only that but she also feels like she is betraying Tyler by having these feelings for his brother. But what will happen when Sam begins to realize that Tyler has been keeping things from her?
I had a hard time with Tyler. I didn't want to have to have a hard time with him. I mean the guy was dead for Christ sake! But I just didn't like the way he handled some things. But I also felt for him and I wanted to give him a hug.
Emotional, haunting, dark and beautiful, The Darkest Part is one hell of a story filled with secrets and mysteries. AMAZING read!
Rating: 5 stars out of 5!
Favorite Quotes:
“I want her to want to be in my arms. And God forgive me, I’m sorry, Tyler . . . but . . . I want her.
There’s no more almost. I’m not falling. Hell, I fell a long time ago.
I just hope the delayed impact doesn’t kill me.”
“I just wanted you to know that I was sorry I never knew the truth. Back then. That maybe if I had, then I might’ve understood your anger. You pushing me away. And I never would have let you.”
“My mouth parts, and before I can grasp a full, coherent thought, I hear myself say, “I never stopped loving you.”
*A copy was provided by the author in exchange of a fair and honest review.*
The Darkest Part was... Wow I don't even know were to start honestly! I think this is the first book to make me feel so many emotions. From anger, to confusion, to love, EVERYTHING.
We have Sam, whose worlds comes crashing down Tyler, her boyfriend/best friend, dies during a hit and run. She then starts seeing his ghost and Sam begins to lose focus on her life. So yeah she is not handling his death well. She is determined to help Tyler's ghost cross over by dropping his ashes on the places they were supposed to visit when they went on their honeymoon road-trip. Holden, Tyler's older brother, also decides to go on the road-trip with her. Helping Tyler cross over is one of their plans but both characters are also planning to get to move on and let go.
The thing about this book is that it makes you doubt. At some moment I was pretty sure that Sam really had a mental illness but at some times I said to myself, "Could this really be his ghost?" Is it really a mental illness or is it a twist of magic? You'll have to read to find out!
Then we have the beautiful Holden. Holden and Sam have a story of their on. I wasn't expecting their history. But it makes the story even more better! Holden is mysterious, Holden had secrets. But Holden also has a great heart and I fell for him hard. His love for Sam is powerful. The slow build to their relationship was great and it has you aching for them to come together. But trust me when I say that they have a LOT to overcome before they can be together. At some times I just wanted to reach into the book and hug both these characters!
Sam is trying to deal with Tyler's death and move on from him but that also isn't easy with Holden around. He brings old feelings to the surface and makes her more confused. Not only that but she also feels like she is betraying Tyler by having these feelings for his brother. But what will happen when Sam begins to realize that Tyler has been keeping things from her?
I had a hard time with Tyler. I didn't want to have to have a hard time with him. I mean the guy was dead for Christ sake! But I just didn't like the way he handled some things. But I also felt for him and I wanted to give him a hug.
Emotional, haunting, dark and beautiful, The Darkest Part is one hell of a story filled with secrets and mysteries. AMAZING read!
Rating: 5 stars out of 5!
Favorite Quotes:
“I want her to want to be in my arms. And God forgive me, I’m sorry, Tyler . . . but . . . I want her.
There’s no more almost. I’m not falling. Hell, I fell a long time ago.
I just hope the delayed impact doesn’t kill me.”
“I just wanted you to know that I was sorry I never knew the truth. Back then. That maybe if I had, then I might’ve understood your anger. You pushing me away. And I never would have let you.”
“My mouth parts, and before I can grasp a full, coherent thought, I hear myself say, “I never stopped loving you.”
November 21, 2014
I was provided an ARC of this book in exchange for an honest review.
I have been looking for the type of read that is engaging, well-written, steamy, and emotional. I found all of this in The Darkest Part.
Where to begin with this heart-wrenching read? I loved every minute I spent reading it. It reminded me of why I spend so much of my time reading. What I love most about reading is the journey. I love to get absorbed into the stories and lives of these characters. To get wrapped up in the story so much that you forget time. Not many authors achieve this, but Trisha Wolfe did. I am forever a reader of hers.
This beautiful, gut-wrenching story of second chance love, loss, and forgiveness will stay with me for a very long time. Sam has an almost perfect life. She is engaged to her best friend and high school sweetheart, Tyler. One night, everything is ripped from her. Tyler dies which makes her world come crashing down. Soon after, Sam believes she can see Tyler. She believes he won’t be free until she scatters his ashes on a road trip that they planned for their honeymoon. Tyler’s older brother steals the ashes and they both embark on a road trip that will change everything they know and believe in.
Although the synopsis explains that Tyler’s death will happen, it didn’t prepare me any less. Tyler and Sam were a very loving couple. Not many have that deep connection they did. While Tyler lived for a small amount of time, I still connected to his character and was devastated when the death happens.
Enter Holden, and you feel a change in the book. He’s like this incoming storm that Sam never expected, but needed more now than ever. Little does he know how much the road trip will change him as it will Sam. Any story about loss is heartbreaking, but this was beyond that. All the characters were hurt. Every single one was suffering in silence. It’s later when we find out their secrets. Love heals. This book attests to that.
I am adding this to one of my favorite books ever shelf. I laughed, I cried, I swooned. I haven’t read such a touching book in a very long time. Every and any NA fan needs to read this book. Not many NA books will be able to top this one.
I have been looking for the type of read that is engaging, well-written, steamy, and emotional. I found all of this in The Darkest Part.
Where to begin with this heart-wrenching read? I loved every minute I spent reading it. It reminded me of why I spend so much of my time reading. What I love most about reading is the journey. I love to get absorbed into the stories and lives of these characters. To get wrapped up in the story so much that you forget time. Not many authors achieve this, but Trisha Wolfe did. I am forever a reader of hers.
This beautiful, gut-wrenching story of second chance love, loss, and forgiveness will stay with me for a very long time. Sam has an almost perfect life. She is engaged to her best friend and high school sweetheart, Tyler. One night, everything is ripped from her. Tyler dies which makes her world come crashing down. Soon after, Sam believes she can see Tyler. She believes he won’t be free until she scatters his ashes on a road trip that they planned for their honeymoon. Tyler’s older brother steals the ashes and they both embark on a road trip that will change everything they know and believe in.
Although the synopsis explains that Tyler’s death will happen, it didn’t prepare me any less. Tyler and Sam were a very loving couple. Not many have that deep connection they did. While Tyler lived for a small amount of time, I still connected to his character and was devastated when the death happens.
Enter Holden, and you feel a change in the book. He’s like this incoming storm that Sam never expected, but needed more now than ever. Little does he know how much the road trip will change him as it will Sam. Any story about loss is heartbreaking, but this was beyond that. All the characters were hurt. Every single one was suffering in silence. It’s later when we find out their secrets. Love heals. This book attests to that.
I am adding this to one of my favorite books ever shelf. I laughed, I cried, I swooned. I haven’t read such a touching book in a very long time. Every and any NA fan needs to read this book. Not many NA books will be able to top this one.
June 12, 2016
For the first time ever, I wish I'd never read the book.
It's never happened before because I've always read the book because I thought the plot sounded interesting. That was not the case this time. I'm not even sure why I decided to read it. It sure as hell wasn't because of the premise.
This book is about Sam who, after losing her boyfriend, decides to go on a trip to spread his ashes in various places over the country so that he can be at peace. She thinks he isn't at peace because she actually talks to him. It's all in her head but she thinks he's actually there. Or at least, his ghost is.
On the trip, her boyfriend's brother Holden, with whom she has a past, joins her. And the book follows as Sam deals with losing her boyfriend and her feeling for his brother.
Now, some might think that I'd be bothered by Sam having feeling for Holden. I'm not. It's no bug deal.
My problem with this book is related to Sam and her psychosis. It's terribly done. I'm no expert, but I don't think psychosis works that way.
Also, I felt not sympathy for Sam. Losing someone is hard, but seeing the "ghost" of your dead boyfriend even five months after his death can't be chalked up to that. That's just you being too weak to accept loss. And it was done terribly, all the psychological elements were. God knows why it hasn't bothered anyone else.
And then there was this whole other level of stupid with Sam that had nothing to do with the psychosis. Basically, I hated her.
The resolution was also no good. Honestly the last 20% was really bad. 5% of it was a mix of unsatisfying parts and irrelevant parts. For the other 15%... I call bullshit.
I didn't even care for the writing. It wasn't bad, but... I don't know.
Overall, the book was predictable, slow-paced, had a terrible protagonist and a plot that I did not give a shit about. I didn't feel much romantic connection between Sam and Holden either. So unless you find the premise very interesting, I'd avoid it.
December 16, 2015
I received this ebook in exchange for an honest review, and since in a few hours time I'll be posting up the Living Heartwood Book #3 Blitz, I figured that I might as well post up the review now, so that I can convince you guys to GET THIS SERIES OK.
HAHA I'm shameless as hell, but fine. (I hate summarising a book, did I ever tell you that? Ugh.) Sam Wintry thought she had it all, the perfect life, the perfect fiance, Tyler Marks. Until he died in a hit-and-run accident. Grief became full-blown insanity when she began seeing Tyler's ghost, and soon, her family sent her off to the psychiatrist. Thinking that it would help Tyler cross over to the other side, Sam planned to tour the places that Tyler had always wanted to go and scatter his ashes there. In a way, she wants to fulfill his globe-trotting ambitions on his behalf. Then, there was Holden Marks, Tyler's estranged brother. Once upon a time, Sam used to be in love with him, until he stomped her heart in the worst possible way. Now, going on this road trip, Sam had enlisted his help to steal the ashes from the Marks'. But during the road trip, Holden realised that he might have to share some of his deepest, darkest secrets if he wants to save Sam's mind from tipping over the edge.
Yeah, you heard that, right? There's a ghost involved. If you want to know whether Tyler's ghost really do exist, well, you'll just have to read the book, right? But let's talk about Sam. There were some times when I adore her character, especially the way she kept herself strong, even if it means believing in Tyler's ghost and talking to herself. She never let anybody's opinion ruin her. And Holden. Oh my God, that crushed soul of his makes me wanna hold him in my arms and never let go. HAHA. Overall, the book was pretty good. It kept me captivated until the very last page, and Trisha Wolfe makes the romance be so dreaaaaaamy (yes, my sentence is abit screwed up, HAHA but I don't know how to put it into words.) But please, do grab this book, it's up at 99c on Amazon ;)
HAHA I'm shameless as hell, but fine. (I hate summarising a book, did I ever tell you that? Ugh.) Sam Wintry thought she had it all, the perfect life, the perfect fiance, Tyler Marks. Until he died in a hit-and-run accident. Grief became full-blown insanity when she began seeing Tyler's ghost, and soon, her family sent her off to the psychiatrist. Thinking that it would help Tyler cross over to the other side, Sam planned to tour the places that Tyler had always wanted to go and scatter his ashes there. In a way, she wants to fulfill his globe-trotting ambitions on his behalf. Then, there was Holden Marks, Tyler's estranged brother. Once upon a time, Sam used to be in love with him, until he stomped her heart in the worst possible way. Now, going on this road trip, Sam had enlisted his help to steal the ashes from the Marks'. But during the road trip, Holden realised that he might have to share some of his deepest, darkest secrets if he wants to save Sam's mind from tipping over the edge.
Yeah, you heard that, right? There's a ghost involved. If you want to know whether Tyler's ghost really do exist, well, you'll just have to read the book, right? But let's talk about Sam. There were some times when I adore her character, especially the way she kept herself strong, even if it means believing in Tyler's ghost and talking to herself. She never let anybody's opinion ruin her. And Holden. Oh my God, that crushed soul of his makes me wanna hold him in my arms and never let go. HAHA. Overall, the book was pretty good. It kept me captivated until the very last page, and Trisha Wolfe makes the romance be so dreaaaaaamy (yes, my sentence is abit screwed up, HAHA but I don't know how to put it into words.) But please, do grab this book, it's up at 99c on Amazon ;)
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