From the bestselling author of “Away From Here” comes an exciting new series! The Wordsmith Chronicles follows the trials and triumphs of a group of young, aspiring writers as they try to navigate the worlds of indie publishing, their personal lives, and staying relevant in an ever changing field.
REVIEW BLURBS:
“Knight’s story is about forgiveness, reflection and pursuing your dreams even if you have lost all hope and feel like giving up.”
“I was hooked from page 1 till the end. I read it in one sitting.”
“My favorite thing about Knight by Christopher Harlan was the Wordsmiths. In the midst of the bro era, it was refreshing to see men that were so.... real. They are grown up & mature with serious goals, ambition & accomplishments but still manage to keep an air of playfulness to them. They aren’t your stereotypical nerds, nor your stereotypical tough guys.”
SUMMARY:
A Wordsmith. That’s what she called me. Why? Because I could make her feel things with my books that no one else ever could. My name is Michael, but everyone knows me as Knight. I write the books that you don’t want your family to know you’re reading. The ones whose spines you hold down so that passers by can’t see the cover, the ones you enjoy only in the privacy of your home.
My last book brought two women into my life—the one who broke my heart into a thousand pieces, and the one who may have the power to mend it. Everleigh. My lingering blank pages needed inspiration, and that’s exactly what she was. I know two things for certain—that my heart beats only for her, and that my best book is still inside me, if only she can help me pull the words from my wounded heart. I can be the writer that makes her heart pound in her chest. And soon, everyone will read my masterpiece. I’m a Wordsmith. Let me tell you my story.
*Not suitable for readers under 18 years of age. Contains language, themes, and situations not appropriate for those under 18 years.
Knight—Book 1 in the Wordsmith Chronicles (Author Review) *No Spoilers
If you’re a fan of Christopher Harlan’s romance work in general (The Impressions series and his New York City’s Finest series), then you’ll especially love the direction of his new one. Titled “Knight”, it’s the first in a planned 3 book series that’s set inside of the indie book romance community. It’s one of the longest books he’s written, and that’s a good thing. In the extra space the author is able to flesh out some amazing characters for this and future books, tell a hot and sexy love story, and give some insight into the the indie book world from an author’s perspective. It’s got something for everyone.
“Knight” could have easily devolved into a cliche—hot alpha writer hooking up with generic female groupie. But the author deftly escapes all of those cliches by developing a real story with complex characters. Knight is a complex man who’s struggling with past demons, but also doing his best to be successful. Everleigh, the main female characters, is a woman who’s finding the inner strength to live the best possible life that she can.
PLOT:
Michael Knight has written a series of contemporary romance novels, but he hasn’t come close to the kind of success that he and his best friends (Colton and Grayson) dreamed of when they decided to try their hands at self-publishing romance after graduating NYU together. The bills are mounting, the words aren’t coming like they used to, and Michael’s books aren’t having the kind of sales that he imagined they would. His last book, Into Your Eyes, was his most successful, and just as he’s about to start his new one—the one he hopes will finally land him on a bestseller list—a personal tragedy sends his world into a complete tailspin.
He ends up struggling with a crippling case of writer’s block due to the stress of what happened, and all of a sudden he finds his sales slipping even more because he hasn’t published anything new or left his house much. On top of that, he’s slipped into a pattern of drinking way too much. When his best friends and fellow romance authors, Colton Chase and Grayson Blackman, decide to pick him up out of his funk, everything changes. They decide to form a writing fraternity, something that will help their careers and pool all of their readers and fans together.
They decide to host a signing a few months later, and it’s there that Michael’s life and career may change forever. He meets the stunningly beautiful Everleigh, who’s not just a rabid romance reader, but also a huge fan of Michael’s work in particular. She found inspiration in his last book, and she drags her friends Harley and Rowan along with her so that she can tell him how much he’s helped her. Along the way they’ll bump into each other at a bar, and everything will take an unexpected turn.
Opposing our hero is another romance writer—KL Steiner—who’s jealous of the newly formed group and would do absolutely anything to see it fail. When something bad happens at the signing, Michael has to figure out what he’s going to do next.
This book is filled with intrigue, insight into the sub culture of indie writing, and a sexy love story that will have you feeling all kinds of emotions by the time you hit the last page. If you love Christopher Harlan’s other work, you’ll need to get your hands on this page turner!
I was lucky enough to beta read this new book and, holy hell!!!! If the blurb didn't pull you in already then the first few pages definitely will. You'll fall in love with Christopher's characters. You'll probably be able to relate to Knight or to Everleigh on some level, which will make you love them even more. While reading you will be eagerly anticipating what awaits you with every page turn and will stay up late to keep reading because you won't want to put Knight down once you jump into these characters' lives. This journey is definitely one you won't have any stops along as you're pulled through it. You'll feel every emotion Knight and Everleigh feel, and you may wish you were in certain scenes - but I'm not telling which ones.
The story shines a little light on the inner workings of the indie book world, while giving you well developed characters that continue to grow, even as you read. I can't wait to see how the rest of this series plays out because I'm definitely invested in it now. Knight is currently my favorite book by Christopher, and I'm glad I was able to beta read this for him.
Knight is the first novel in the Wordsmith Chronicles.
I enjoyed reading about the intricacies of the world of indie writing. As readers, we get to see the finished product with its pretty little bow, but what we don't see are the struggles authors face in producing the product. I found it interesting that Christopher was able to create a storyline behind it and keep me intrigued. I wonder if some of the drama created is true. Some parts of this novel felt unfinished/unrealistic in the sense that this couldn't possibly be the end of this problem. I am hoping that the character in question will make an appearance in the novels to come. If you like sweet happy endings, this book is for you. Knight is possibly the most squishy character I have ever read... get it, Knight... Enjoy!
I absolutely love this new series♡Loved Michael and Everleighs amazing wonderful loving story♡Gave such a peek what it's like to be an indie author.So looking forward to Colton story♡
Wow. Words can't even begin to describe the amazingness that was this book. I will start by saying that I completely DEVOURED it in one sitting, that ought to tell you something.
It's so hard to put into words just how incredible this journey was. Because that's exactly what it was, a journey. This wasn't just your typical romance novel either. This was so much more than that. It was real. Like really real. It was so easy to relate to the characters, to feel what they were feeling. The feelings of self-doubt, and worry, the feelings of not being good enough, but also the love, compassion, and dedication. It's one thing for an author to tell a good story. It's another for them to actually make you FEEL. And Mr. Harlan definitely made me feel with this one.
As ashamed as I am to say it, this was my first book from this author but it will NOT be the last. In fact, I plan on getting the entire Wordsmith Chronicle books. Because, as cliche as it sounds seeing as how it's the title of the series, that's exactly what Mr. Harlan is. A Wordsmith. His words spark more than just entertainment. It's real, raw, and unadulterated. It has been a long time since an author has made me feel that way and an even longer time since I have been able to complete a book in one sitting. That's just how incredible it was.
Normally, I would include a brief synopsis of the story in my own words, but right now, I don't think I could do so without spoiling anything. But I will say this: If you love romance, you NEED to check out this series. It's so deep and emotional and it deals with problems normal people face every day.
Side Note: Bring Tissues!
Definitely 5 out of 5 stars, though I'd give it so much more if I could.
I am in LOVE with Knight. I was hooked on this book by page two...Knight is totally my type of man. He is strong and sensitive. He knows how to play to his strengths and he his words flow through your soul. He had heartbreak and learned from it (which makes me want to swoon). He is smitten with Everleigh from the monument his eyes connect with her's. That feeling when you lock eyes with someone for the first time and you just know...you know that something big is gonna happen. That for some reason they were meant to be in your life...that was Knight and Everleigh. They were magic to read about. Christopher's writing has only gotten better with time. This is by far my favorite book of his. This series is going to fantastic I just know it. Knight is that one guy that everyone loves, but that no one really thinks they can get because he just seems to perfect to attain. The dirty parts of this book were AMAZING...the physical connection that Knight and Everleigh shared were HOT! I can't wait to see where this series is going to go...I know that I am probably going to fall in love with them ALL!!!! #Wordsmith #LadyPorn #Pun #TrueNorth #CupCake
I really enjoyed this book not only for the love story aspect of it. But also for the up close view and details it gives of the struggles and hardships indie authors go through. Us,as readers,see authors as these larger than life beings. When in reality they have the same problems and deal with the same things we all do. I loved Knight and Everleigh! They are easy to relate to and are believable lovable characters. I also liked all the secondary characters. Beautifully written book! Everything flowed so well. The dialogue and discussions between the characters is how most of us talk with our friends. And that’s exactly the vibe that the book carries throughout. Not only did this book have me cheering on Knight and Everleigh. But it’s also hot and sexy! Looking forward to the next book in this great series!
A book about the Indie romance writing community? Inspired by a book signing that I was at?! This is it, definitely the book that I have been waiting for.
Christopher Harlan knocks it out of the park with the start of this new series. A group of male romance writers at a signing. Sound familiar? Well it should! If you have never been to a book signing, or know what authors go through when they are at one - this book gives you a great feel for it.
And the story - Michael Knight is having writers block due to the breakdown of his marriage. He is hoping to get inspired. He meets Everleigh at the book signing event. She is a devoted reader and meets Knight at the event. They totally hit it off and she helps him overcome his difficulties. It is a great story, with some drama and hot times included. It is well written, and gives a lot of insight as to what an indie author goes through.
I can’t wait to find out what happens in Colton’s book!
I have read all of Christopher's books so far, and I have to say that Knight is by far my favorite. If you are familiar with his work, this book is longer than his norm, but that is great because he packed so much content in to this book that you just want to keep going. I was hooked from the very beginning and wanted to keep reading just to find out what would happen next. From a relatable female lead and a loveable male lead, you will be cheering, screaming, and swooning with them through the twists and turns of this story. Who can forget the evil-doer? Don't worry, you'll hate him as well ;). I can't wait to read the rest of this series as it unfolds. is it time for book 2 yet? lol!
Loved Knight and Everleigh's story! It was an interesting concept of writing a book about a male romance author and meeting one of his fans and them clicking. It was fun and entertaining. I loved meeting Colton, Grayson, Harley and Rowan. They made a great supporting cast in this story. I can't wait for more of this series.
Knight, the first in the Wordsmith Chronicles, what can I possibly say but ingenious. I wasn't sure what to expect from this new series but I was instantly hooked and couldn't put it down. How can an author be so amazing like this? I have no idea but you need to read this book. I'm not sure there is anything else I can say that can truly express how good this is, so stop reading this review and pick up this book and start reading! Do it now!!
Ok, so I know this is a romance novel & the requisite love story is definitely present but, honestly? My favorite thing about Knight by Christopher Harlan was the Wordsmiths. In the midst of the bro era, it was refreshing to see men that were so.... real. They are grown up & mature with serious goals, ambition & accomplishments but still manage to keep an air of playfulness to them. They aren’t your stereotypical nerds, nor your stereotypical tough guys. They joke around with one another but also aren’t afraid to show how much they care for one another. I grew up as the only girl in the house with 5 brothers and this is the most real, honest portrayal of regular guys & male friendships I have ever seen. These guys aren’t just bros or bad boys or book nerds or brooding artists. They are modern, multidimensional men that are as comfortable talking about feelings as they are about a fight. I’m sure it helps that Knight was written by a man but even still, there are thousands of male authors out there yet, this is the the best example I’ve seen in any genre. It is one of those things that I didn’t realize was missing until it was in front of me. As for the romance, it was sweet & honest & adorable. It was also modern & mature.... relatable & attainable in a way that many stories in this genre aren’t. It didn’t feel like some far off fairytale that we could only dream of. I could literally imagine any one of my friends having this experience. Often, I struggle to connect with male narrators but this novel was just so down to earth that I was pulled in from the beginning. Sincere thanks to Christopher Harlan for the opportunity to read an advanced copy of this book. I really enjoyed it & will be anxiously awaiting the next installment in this series. I have so many thoughts swirling in my head about where it could go next!
Christopher Harlan opens his new Wordsmith series with an introduction to Knight. Michael Knight is part of a small group of male romance writers trying to make it big in the indie book world.
He and his pals share some success but the struggles to publish in this intense market are taking its toll. Knight has had his heart broken big time and takes way too much time wallowing in self pity. His friends are determined to pull him out of his funk and getting him back on track and writing again.
The boys join forces and put together a group signing for their fans. Knight needs inspiration and to get his words back. At the signing he meets a girl who lights a spark and helps gets his creative juices flowing. He is on his way to a big comeback, however lurking in the background is a bad boy, I don’t play by the rules nemesis who is stirring up a hornets nest of lies and negativity.
Knight is Book 1 in the Wordsmith Series. Full steam, heart, true friendship and some twists too. Harlan lets his readers take a realistic fictional look at the world of an indie author trying to make it.
I'm glad that the main focus of the story wasn't on the romance, at least that's what it felt like to me, because that's not why I picked it up. What drew me to this book is that it is set in the world of indie writers. And I loved it.
My favourite part of the book were the three writers: Knight, Colton and Grayson. They are wonderful characters and their friendship is the best. I enjoyed reading about them so much. What I loved the most was how real and authentic they felt. One of the best portrayals of male characters I have read.
This was my first book by Christopher Harlan and I absolutely loved his writing style.
Knight – When I started reading Knight I didn’t have expectations of what his story would be. I have read a few of Christopher Harlan’s books and I am usually impressed with his work, I felt this one would be another story that would touch me and take me into a new place and take delight in reading. So Knight; this book started off with the author talking about how his character could write scenes that would blow you away, have you needing some personal physical attention due to the words on paper. That statement made me sit up a little taller, wanting to see what kind of stories this would have, because so much of this genre leaves much off the paper and allows the readers mind to take over, I was ready to read some mind blowing words. What I found was good scenes, some VERY good scenes, good characters, and an overall plot I could get into. There were times when the story became redundant, each character telling the same story much in the same way and I lost some interest. However, by about the time I finished reading a third of the book, I was ready to know more and want more. As I continued reading, oh! I got more. The way his characters intermingle their stories was beautiful to read; her story was begun by reading a book that changed her, his story was about meeting her and changing himself. The way one worked off the other to create something appealing and realistic(ish), kept me turning each page and wanting more of their story. The smaller sub-characters in the book also play a part in keeping me interested, but they were more like adding wood [hehe no pun intended] on the fires of Michael and Everleigh. My Favorite quote: “In this room she’s not just my lover—she’s my redemption. Her body isn’t a thing to be felt, it’s a mystery to be solved, a thing to lose myself in and find myself in simultaneously […]” (end of chapter 14) How it must feel to have someone feel like this about you, to have a connection and a need that can be fulfilled by one person. To have all the cracks and broken pieces from the past slowly, yet simultaneously, sealed up. Fully melded together where only the slightest scar remains, but no longer does damage to the present. Now I await the next book in the Woodsmith Chronicles Series, Colton, so I can continue to see how the other characters’ have their lives changed by Romance? Love? Heartbreak? You never know, and I for one am looking forward to seeing the series through to the end. 9/10
update: another favorite quote "Demons come back to visit at our weakest moments. it's like they're always there, just hovering on the periphery of our lives, even at the times when we've convinced ourselves how happy we are an how well everything is going. And then all it takes is one fight, one disaster, one tragedy, and our old friends come knocking at the door, waiting to throw our lives into total chaos." wow how fitting of life in general. I love the way Christopher Harlan writes lifes most fitting moments.
Beautiful words that are gifted by an author for their readers…
KNIGHT - is the start of a new series for Christopher Harlan and one I will continue to look forward to seeing how it’s series progresses. Michael Knight (author) has some of his buddies - his author friends and Social Media co-horts, ready and waiting to share their own personal impressions and stories with us shortly. Now… this is Michael Knight’s turn.
A beautiful story of Michael and Everleigh’s journey towards love amid the book world backdrop, that can often times be a fantastical illusion. There is a plentiful supply of learning, trusting, changing and romantic sensuality between an unexpected meeting of author and fan. A meeting that will change lives. How they see each other and how each evolves with understanding what they bring together. How they navigate both their personal and professional disllusions, angst and a myriad of problems in the often times chaotic and hectic book world and online social presence. It’s a demanding and consuming world, filled with it’s very highs and very lows.
Reality often imitates art or is that art imitates reality?
I think it works both ways. Christopher Harlan writes his story and drops into his very own world - that of being an author, his impressions and experiences but gifted to readers, as a fictional tale… Write what you know best!! Being a Romance Indie author. One thing I always enjoy about Christopher’s writing style - he always starts his books in an unique stylish fashion… giving you a glimpse into his thought processes, an insight into the book world and the inspirations that sparked an idea which in turn has given us so many beautiful words, turned in to a story and follows it up as a series. He has also stepped up the heat and sensuality factor… adding more layers to his story. One thing about being an author, whether fictional or in real life… you are always learning, always practicing your craft, growing! Well done!
Definitely a book (and series) to recommend to you. One that gives you a glimpse into a world where “fictional” authors have the same struggles that we all face at times. That the illusion of glamour and fantasy is the surface. Underneath, authors are real personas, have real life issues, strengths and weaknesses, joys and pain.
"In this room, she's not just my lover - she's my redemption."
Wow!! What a great start to this series!! I was so sad to read the last installment of Christopher Harlan's last series, New York City's Finest, but I was absolutely thrilled to hear that he was starting something new!! This book is an amazing start to his new endeavor!!
Michael Knight is an "Indie" author. Trying to get his name and his books more exposure, he and 2 fellow authors and his best friends, embark on a joint effort to combine their fan bases and hopefully increase all of their reader counts. Joining forces, they form "The Wordsmiths" and arrange for their first signing, where his world was irrevocably changed. Having spent the last year in a self-imposed funk, throwing himself a epic-sized pity party, Knight finds himself both blocked and detached from his writing. Until her. She sparks new life in to both his heart, and his writer's soul. Is she the key that will unlock not only his creative mind, but his heart as well? Is she his lifeline with which he can pull himself out of the abyss in which he's been in for the past year?
Everleigh is a fan of Knight's work. Not just because he's an amazing author, but because his words touched her. His book spoke to her and gave her the courage to finally change her life and set herself free from the toxic relationship in which she found herself. And now she gets to meet him in person!! Beyond excited to finally be able to speak to him and tell him how much he affected her life, she expected to be nervous. What she didn't expect were the sparks between them. He's told her she's his muse, but she wants to be so much more. Could it be possible?
I love the characters in this book. The way they interact with one another is so realistic, and the dialogue is just what you would think a group of guys would say to one another. Nothing is forced - it's just.....life. If you've read anything else of Christopher's you know he has a way of bringing his books to life. You feel like you might just run in to Knight, Colton and Grayson on the street or in the supermarket. You feel what they feel, see what they see, and their hopes and fears are your own.
So, I started reading this book with the expectation of classic Christopher Harlan, ala, his New York City's Finest series. Shut.The.Front.Door!! The detailed descriptions are still there, but the entire tone is lighter, the characters are more playful, and the sex is off the charts hot!! Knight is the first in a planned 3 book series (but I am soooo hoping that he expands this universe, hint, hint, True North DEF needs his own book) about the indie author world. In true Christopher fashion, he gives an in depth description of what it truly is like to be a self-published male author who writes romance. The behind the scenes look at an author signing is eye-opening, especially in view of the fact that Christopher has only attended one signing in real life!! And I also attended that signing in real life!! And that is the basis for this book: a heart-to-heart conversation with an author friend at the real life signing sparked this story. The 3 men who form the Wordsmiths write different genres of romance, and although there is healthy competition, there is also true fellowship. When Knight needs a kick in the ass, Colt is right there to deliver said kick! And Gray is that voice of reason that they need in a sometimes overwhelming-with-the-details world. Knight meets Everleigh at the first signing event of the Wordsmiths and she provides that inspiration he is seeking to lift him out of his writing stalemate following the demise of his marriage. She is his muse. But, Everleigh has her own demons. Will Knight and Everleigh transcend the writer/reader connection to forge something deeper and more meaningful? Will the pettiness of a jealous romance author break Knight professionally? And just what is Colt hiding behind his cockiness and assholery? I absolutely FLOVED this book and its intimate, behind-the-scenes glimpse into the life of a male indie romance author and I Can.Not.Wait. for Colton's story!! And, the dedication is simply The Best Ever! #Wordsmiths #Knight+Everleigh
I wasn't sure what to expect opening this book,I just knew that it was going to be something special and unique... And it was.! So I am not going to spoil it too much for you,by giving you too many details to the story.Because going into a book like this blind,makes it that bit more of an enthralling experience. With subject matter that every reader, blogger and Author will relate to,Knight takes you into the the personal world of Romance author Michael Knight.An indie author struggling with writers block and a painful divorce. He along with his two best friends and fellow authors Grayson and Colton,form an alliance called The Wordsmiths.Where they can showcase and promote their books as a trio at booksignings and Author events. It is at one of these signings that he meets Everleigh,a Beautiful,loyal fans of Michael's books who has also been through a difficult break up.The chemistry between them is instant and the attraction profound, and after their very first conversation Michael begins to feel something again for the first time since his divorce.Everleigh stirs something inside and awakens the writer within him once again.He begins to feel inspired and to write a book. Everleigh's presence ,enthusiasm and Faith in him is addictive and falling for her is so natural and easy. I completely fell in Love with this story,it made me appreciate even more how hard authors work to bring readers like me and you a riveting story. I was totally swept away with Michael and Everleigh and The Wordsmiths,with surprises and twist Christopher's writing is impeccable,his attention to detail is Amazing and he really captures you in his spell. I cannot wait to read the other two books in this series,I am so eager to know what happens next. I Absolutely think everyone should read this book,because I really don't know how anyone could not fall in love with it. Brilliant work Christopher 5Stars and beyond.
*** Recieved an ARC in return for an honest review*** Let me start of by saying that Christpher Harlan's recent novel is a great read! (no surprise there). If you are familiar with his work than you know he puts his heart and soul into everything he writes and his latest is no exception. Knight: The Wordsmith Chronicles follows Micheal aka as Knight to the indie book communty has he tries to find the premise of his newest novel. He is having a difficult time trying to find the inspiration needed for his next book due to serious case of writer's block. He along with his friends Colton, and Grayson embark on quite an adventurous weekend as they stage their first book signing in the hopes that it will help their respective careers by meeting the readers who are responsible for their success. This book is not like any other I have read because it offers quite a bit of insight on what goes on in the mind of an author and the indie book community. As a reader you can't help but feel part of the story and you become invested in the characters and their journey. Knight and Everleigh balance eachother perfectly. You feel their chemistry from their first encounter and you can't help but want them to find their happiness. Everleigh was in a toxic relationship and was finally able to end it through the strength of one of her favorite authors characters. Knight was struggling to write again until he met Everleigh and she changed everything for him. The dynamic between the two is what made their relationahip so believable. I loved them together!!! If you are looking for a feel good romance than this one is for you. You will not be disappointed! Can't wait for Colton and Harley's story next! Great job Christopher!
Great story. I absolutely love the idea of male authors and to unite them as the Wordsmiths was such a cool concept. I love that name, by the way.
Michael Knight a/k/a Knight is struggling to write another great story. After he’s dealt with a major blow, his inspiration is hindered and he doesn’t know quite how to get over this writer’s block. Until he meets her…Everleigh. Not only is she beautiful but she’s unlike anyone Knight has ever met. The attraction is instantaneous. But it’s more than just physical. He wants to spend time with her and get to know her. After all, she has become the inspiration for his new book. OMG! I just loved the title. So awesome.
Everleigh is in a bad relationship when she finally decides to end it with her verbally abusive boyfriend. Part of the inspiration for that is Michael Knight’s book. She has been a fan of Knight’s for a while and to get to meet him and tell him what a difference his book made in her life is like a dream come true. She didn’t expect to have such strong feelings for him. The chemistry is explosive and intense.
I really enjoyed this story. The characters were so awesome and I can’t wait to read more about the Wordsmiths especially after the way this one ended. The story had some twists and turns that made the book that much better. The Brotherhood will be a thing that needs to be dealt with and I can’t wait to see what transpires. I love that these male authors are best friends and have each other’s backs no matter what. The commraderie is what makes this story so great and unique.
I believe I found a new favorite author in Christopher Harlan! "Knight..." restored my hopeless "romantic"...but it was so much more! I've become quite accustomed to my relaxing with all genres of romance novels routine, and there was a point where they were all becoming a blur, sounding similar to the last and not placing me in that moment I had grown so accustomed to...leaving me with that "sigh" when I close the book. Then...
In walks Michael Knight. He takes me on a journey... one that I am somewhat familiar with. Taking me inside the head...HIS head, as a romance author, as well as reminding us that he is still human and suffer with this thing called "life". With his "Wordsmith" companions, he finds a way to make a comeback to his normalcy, by meeting the beautiful Everleigh. Theirs becomes the story to be written, and I just found myself back at that place I missed so much. I have finally regained my "sigh" and have a renewed hope in love stories..
I've been to signings and have always wondered what could possibly be going through a romance authors head. It's kind of easy to accept coming from female authors. But get it from a male perspective is indeed a treat! Christopher Harlan, I applaud you...and cannot wait to read more of your work...especially, the continuation of the "Wordsmiths". You, my kind sir...have an avid reader for life (or as long as you keep writing).
Knight is the kind of book boyfriend all women fantasize about. Tall, dark and handsome with a sexy body, who is sinfully romantic and always thoughtful. His sexy words create an image of seduction where a woman can feel as if she is the one he is talking about. Where she can experience the passion that she secretly desires in her own life, but has to do without.
Knight’s story is about forgiveness, reflection and pursuing your dreams even if you have lost all hope and feel like giving up. Knight can always rely on his best friends Colton and Grayson to be there for him and their strong friendship is the foundation of their successful writing partnership. He was overwhelmed when Everleigh confided in him that his words helped her gain the courage to leave an unhealthy relationship, because no one had ever told him that before.
Everleigh is Knight’s biggest fan and his words mean more to her than just letters on a page. His book, “Into Your Eyes” is her favorite and she has a dog-eared copy to prove it. His words, which leapt from the pages into her soul, allowed her to grow into the strong woman she was meant to be, and she hopes that someday she can meet him and thank him for changing her life.
“Knight” deserves as many stars as there are in the sky because it is an ingenious storyline, is written from the heart and with every word you read, and page you turn, you want the story to keep going and never end. Christopher Harlan is a passionate and imaginative writer whose story takes us out of our seats and into the lives of the characters, so we too, can share in the magic of his words.
This is the first book in a great new series, the Wordsmith Chronicles, by Christopher Harlan. It is about Michael Knight, one of three authors in a group of friends who starts off the book in a slump. Just out of a relationship and trying to find his groove again. He attends a book signing event with his other two close friends, and meets Everleigh. (I have to say I absolutely LOVE her name!) Everleigh was already a huge fan of Knight, but because she really got something from his books, as he will see from her well-worn copy. His book helped her during a dark time in her life. They both find they have instant chemistry and neither one of them wants to be part of the cliched author/reader romance. Soon they realize that they have much more than that and you see Knight grow and become whole again with the help of Everleigh. Of course, there is book world drama involved in there as it should be. And, this book was a great set up for at least two more books in the series about his friends Colton and Grayson and her friends Rowan and Harley. There was one issue in the book that I was hoping to have a resolution for and it has to do with his stolen computer... I hope that we find out in a future book. I don't want to give too much away to spoil this book for others! I received this ARC in exchange for an honest review.
A fresh new romance about an author from the indie romance community!
Knight has been struggling. A writer who lost his groove after his marriage abruptly ended. Heartbroken and crushed, Knight just succumbed to his own demons and just wallowed in his misery.
A fresh new idea from his bff’s brings him out of his funk. The start of an author fraternity, The Wordsmiths gives him new purpose.
Now focusing on this new project and starting to write again, Knight attends his first author signing with the Wordsmiths and his life is about to change.
Everleigh is Knight’s number one fan, just not in the creepy way. She’s read all his books and his most recent changed her life. Thrilled to finally meet her favorite author, she attends the signing with her best friends.
Their meeting shows an instant connection. Everleigh was already drawn to this author, but now she’s attracted to the man behind the words and the feeling is mutual.
Life always throws a few obstacles in the path to happiness and their story is no exception. Knight and Everleigh both have baggage and need to work through it to move toward their future.
The story felt so real and I enjoyed the familiarity of both the characters and references to the indie romance community. I am definitely looking forward to Colton and Harley’s story. I can’t wait for more of the Wordsmiths!
This was the first book I’ve read by Mr. Harlan and he has made a new fan. Since reading this book, I’ve been on a Christopher Harlan buying spree (Amazon must love me now, lol). This is the story of an author at a low point in his life and how one woman brought him back to his dream life. Knight and his two best friends are authors. Not just authors, but Indie smut authors and proud of it. They each have their fan base, but Knight has hit a bad patch. Coming home early, he found his wife in bed with her best friend. After kicking her out, he’s hit the bottle pretty hard, and hasn’t written anything for a while. His friends have tried to get him back, but they are fighting a long hard battle. One night, they decide to hold a small signing for their fans. The weekend of the signing, Knight meets Everleigh, a fan who has come with her friends to the event. She’s loved Knight’s work and carries a dog-eared copy of one of his books for him to sign. It’s not all fun and games in this story though, there’s trouble brewing with another male author, who’s out to sabotage by any means necessary. I thoroughly enjoyed this story. The writing is excellent, the characters are engaging, and the story line hooks you in from the first page. It is definitely on my list for top books this year and I’m eagerly waiting for the next installment in this series.
Knight is such an awesome book! Christopher Harlan gives us a story that we can relate to in the book world on Facebook. Michael Knight is an author who is having a rough time personally & professionally in his life. His last book wasn't as successful as he wished. He split up with his wife. What else could go wrong? He does have two great friends who are also authors. They try to help lift him up & create a Facebook group for the three of them. They also create an author event for themselves. Everleigh loves to read & Knight is one of her favorite authors. His last book hit home with her. She convinces her two friends to go to a book signing that Knight & his two friends are having. When Everleigh & Knight meet each other, there is a connection. Everleigh gives Knight all of the positive backing he needs. Just when he thinks things are going well, in steps a backstabbing author who is jealous. Knight handles it very professionally when he could have not. Knight realizes he has something good going with Everleigh & his friends. Has life finally changed for the best? I loved how Christopher Harlan wrote a story that a lot of people see the Facebook side of & now we can see the author side of it. I can't wait for the next book in the Wordsmith Chronicles.
This book was truly enjoyable to read. From the heart felt dedications, to the informative forward that informs the reader on how the book began. Which is such a wonderful insight as a reader it allows me a glimpse into to the authors unique creative writing process. It is something I enjoy reading about. Now, Moving on to Night (Michael) the main character of the book. I love this character because he is not the perfect person. Meaning he has his flaws. As no one is perfect, but he take the support given by his friends Colton and Grayson who make up the Wordsmiths; and makes every effort to turn things around after his marriage falls apart. Night meets Everleigh and lets just say without giving to much away creative magic happens. I have to say I love the witty banter between the friends; as well as the way they support each other when times get tough. Even to the point of physical altercation though it might not have been the best choice for the group. I am very excited to see where the next book takes this group of friends in the world of writing and love. I don’t think you will be disappointed with this new series by Christopher Harlan I know I was not.
I really liked Michael (Knight) and Everleigh's story. It gave us an instant connection love story while also delving into some of the behind-the-scenes or beyond-the-pages info on what it takes to be an indie author these days. Also, it is written by a man. I know, that shouldn't make any difference, but it does. And you can tell this book and these words were written by a man. And not just any man, but by Mr. Harlan, and it's all the better for it. Michael and Everleigh have both known adversity in their lives and when they meet Michael is just coming out of a severe tailspin of his personal life while attending a working event for his professional life. Everleigh and Michael decide to keep their relationship under wraps while the other stuff works itself out, for fear of stigmatization from their friends and colleagues (and people who don't even know them.) Michael and Everleigh are both believable, likeable characters that you definitely want to root for, as well as are Colt, Gray, Rowan, and Harley. Also loved Mr. Greg Olden. I very much look forward to reading the next part in this story arc, Colton's book.