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Heart Collection #2
Sight Words
When a small-town teacher meets her new neighbor, she’s failing at remaining professional.
Tricia Carter loves teaching, but as a high school teacher, her newest student puzzles her. When she calls home to discuss her concerns, she learns the child lives with a much older brother. She also discovers he’s her next-door neighbor and dangerous. Complete with tattoos, piercings and lots of leather, he’s everything Tricia isn’t interested in. She knows all about the menacing-man types and she won’t be walking into the darkness again. She’s smarter than that.
Leon Ramirez never learns. Case in point is the woman next door. When his sister has issues in school, he can’t seem to stay out of trouble himself. Addicted to dangerous situations in his formative years, this former gang member just wants to live a simple life, work on cars, and drink his beer in peace. His vivacious, witty and tempting neighbor screams off-limits, and he won’t dismiss the signs. He’s not that dumb.
When you don’t heed the signs, the heart reads between the lines.
** PREVIOUSLY PUBLISHED in 2015 as Sight Words, Sensations Collection 5.
Tricia Carter loves teaching, but as a high school teacher, her newest student puzzles her. When she calls home to discuss her concerns, she learns the child lives with a much older brother. She also discovers he’s her next-door neighbor and dangerous. Complete with tattoos, piercings and lots of leather, he’s everything Tricia isn’t interested in. She knows all about the menacing-man types and she won’t be walking into the darkness again. She’s smarter than that.
Leon Ramirez never learns. Case in point is the woman next door. When his sister has issues in school, he can’t seem to stay out of trouble himself. Addicted to dangerous situations in his formative years, this former gang member just wants to live a simple life, work on cars, and drink his beer in peace. His vivacious, witty and tempting neighbor screams off-limits, and he won’t dismiss the signs. He’s not that dumb.
When you don’t heed the signs, the heart reads between the lines.
** PREVIOUSLY PUBLISHED in 2015 as Sight Words, Sensations Collection 5.
Unknown Binding
First published May 31, 2015
313 people are currently reading
534 people want to read
About the author
L.B. Dunbar
95 books3,285 followersL.B. Dunbar loves sexy silver foxes, second chances, and small towns. If you enjoy older characters in your romance reads, including a hero with a little silver in his scruff and a heroine rediscovering her worth, then welcome to romance for those over 40. L.B. Dunbar’s signature works include women and men in their prime taking another turn at love and happily ever after. She’s a USA TODAY Bestseller as well as #1 Bestseller on Amazon in Later in Life Romance with her Sterling Falls, Lakeside Cottage, and Road Trips & Romance series. L.B. lives in Chicago with her own sexy silver fox.
To get all the scoop about the self-proclaimed queen of silver fox romance, join her on Facebook at Loving L.B. or receive her weekly newsletter, Love Notes.
To get all the scoop about the self-proclaimed queen of silver fox romance, join her on Facebook at Loving L.B. or receive her weekly newsletter, Love Notes.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 190 reviews
September 4, 2020
Incredible story
... as soon as I finished this story that was the word that kept scrolling thru my brain. It describes every aspect of the story perfectly.
Tricia Carter, a natural caretaker with a heart of gold. A woman with a history no woman should have to endure but many do. A survivor. A peacemaker. An educator who will stop at nothing to provide a safe and nurturing environment. Incredible.
Leon Ramirez, a sexy, strong, and dedicated man and brother who didn’t always have the answers or know what to do in situations, but accepted others knowledge and a helping hand when needed (most of the time lol). A stubborn man who couldn’t see what was right in front of him for fear of what was behind him. A brother out of his depth when he became mother, father, brother, and caretaker to his two much younger sisters from out of the blue. A man who maybe could have been a bit more patient with others and receptive to others. A man with an incredible heart he did not let many see yet shinned brightly in this story. Incredible.
At its core, this is a romance journey between Tricia and Leon. However, mixed in that core there is a whole lot of other story. After I read the dedication of the book, my heart almost exploded. I know quite a few Ramirezes (you’ll have to read this incredible book to find out about all this) and their stories are never similar but always come from the same core. I was invested in this story before I even began to read because there’s nothing that makes me happier than a happy ending for a Ramirez! And before I forget to say it, do not skip the dedication! Seriously.
This book, just like Speak From the Heart was an emotional rollercoaster that will sneak up on you when you least expect it. Everything about the book is emotional and suspenseful and captivating and yes, highly entertaining. Tricia and Leon were sexy and swoony with electric chemistry you could feel from the prose! I’ve always loved that about LB Dunbar; she gives us larger than life stories that unfold organically with characters that are realistic and relatable. They are every day people living every day lives and it is just glorious.
Do yourselves a favor and start this series from the beginning. You don’t actually have to, but the timelines overlap a bit so there might be a tiny little spoiler here and there. Plus, why wouldn’t you; they are both incredible stories connected by siblings!
Download your copy today or read in Kindle Unlimited!
Amazon US: https://amzn.to/2xUV0ar
Amazon UK: https://amzn.to/3dUl3za
Amazon AU: https://amzn.to/2R9juUg
Amazon CA: https://amzn.to/39Ohw1X
Tricia Carter, a natural caretaker with a heart of gold. A woman with a history no woman should have to endure but many do. A survivor. A peacemaker. An educator who will stop at nothing to provide a safe and nurturing environment. Incredible.
Leon Ramirez, a sexy, strong, and dedicated man and brother who didn’t always have the answers or know what to do in situations, but accepted others knowledge and a helping hand when needed (most of the time lol). A stubborn man who couldn’t see what was right in front of him for fear of what was behind him. A brother out of his depth when he became mother, father, brother, and caretaker to his two much younger sisters from out of the blue. A man who maybe could have been a bit more patient with others and receptive to others. A man with an incredible heart he did not let many see yet shinned brightly in this story. Incredible.
At its core, this is a romance journey between Tricia and Leon. However, mixed in that core there is a whole lot of other story. After I read the dedication of the book, my heart almost exploded. I know quite a few Ramirezes (you’ll have to read this incredible book to find out about all this) and their stories are never similar but always come from the same core. I was invested in this story before I even began to read because there’s nothing that makes me happier than a happy ending for a Ramirez! And before I forget to say it, do not skip the dedication! Seriously.
This book, just like Speak From the Heart was an emotional rollercoaster that will sneak up on you when you least expect it. Everything about the book is emotional and suspenseful and captivating and yes, highly entertaining. Tricia and Leon were sexy and swoony with electric chemistry you could feel from the prose! I’ve always loved that about LB Dunbar; she gives us larger than life stories that unfold organically with characters that are realistic and relatable. They are every day people living every day lives and it is just glorious.
Do yourselves a favor and start this series from the beginning. You don’t actually have to, but the timelines overlap a bit so there might be a tiny little spoiler here and there. Plus, why wouldn’t you; they are both incredible stories connected by siblings!
Download your copy today or read in Kindle Unlimited!
Amazon US: https://amzn.to/2xUV0ar
Amazon UK: https://amzn.to/3dUl3za
Amazon AU: https://amzn.to/2R9juUg
Amazon CA: https://amzn.to/39Ohw1X
Read
April 18, 2020COMING SOON - a new improved edition of a great story with stronger/older characters, more steam, and tons of romance.
August 23, 2020
Dunbar brings us to Elk Lake City on Lake Michigan in Heart Collection series. It's so poetic cause it really is a collection of stories about matters of the heart of this small townspeople. Where everybody knows their name, everybody frequents the same bars & restaurants and come together as a community while celebrating festivals or watching each other's backs. It's heartwarming tale of family & friends you'll immediately relate to in some way or the other. Everyone walks away with something, a twinge in the heart, a smile on your lips, a moist patch on your panties😁
Hot passion igniting the body and Shakespearean quotes stimulating the heart, this book sates it all!!
When Leon Ramirez - a man with tats on his back and a fine ass in basketball shorts , gatecrashes this tight-knit, close community with mysterious silence and two sisters in tow, Lena & Lys, they try and and fit themselves without causing a ripple.
"How is my life just one mess after another?"
But Leon is nothing short of a trouble magnet, he doesn't go looking for it, it's right there at his heels. One on top of the other, hits just keep on coming. He just can't seem to catch a break
"I never want to be anything other than who I am. I can’t change my past. I can’t predict the future. I can only be my best me in the present, and that’s what I’m trying to do."
Add to that his cute & nerdy next door neighbor, Tricia Carter who gets pulled in Ramirez house hold turbulence by association of her feelings, it's a recipe of perfect disaster
‘The course of true love doth not run smooth,’
It's highly commendable that Dunbar manages to touch upon several sensitive topics in this story. Drawing on her own real experiences as ateacher/educator, and having dealt with young impressionable minds for a number of years, She bravely ventures into debatable politico-social problems plaguing the world today with her trademark sensibility and compassion. I wish we had more educators like her to guide the Karens and Chads running rampant right now.
4.5 stars for Shirts & Skin
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Hot passion igniting the body and Shakespearean quotes stimulating the heart, this book sates it all!!
When Leon Ramirez - a man with tats on his back and a fine ass in basketball shorts , gatecrashes this tight-knit, close community with mysterious silence and two sisters in tow, Lena & Lys, they try and and fit themselves without causing a ripple.
"How is my life just one mess after another?"
But Leon is nothing short of a trouble magnet, he doesn't go looking for it, it's right there at his heels. One on top of the other, hits just keep on coming. He just can't seem to catch a break
"I never want to be anything other than who I am. I can’t change my past. I can’t predict the future. I can only be my best me in the present, and that’s what I’m trying to do."
Add to that his cute & nerdy next door neighbor, Tricia Carter who gets pulled in Ramirez house hold turbulence by association of her feelings, it's a recipe of perfect disaster
‘The course of true love doth not run smooth,’
It's highly commendable that Dunbar manages to touch upon several sensitive topics in this story. Drawing on her own real experiences as ateacher/educator, and having dealt with young impressionable minds for a number of years, She bravely ventures into debatable politico-social problems plaguing the world today with her trademark sensibility and compassion. I wish we had more educators like her to guide the Karens and Chads running rampant right now.
4.5 stars for Shirts & Skin
#BookBistroBlogApproved
Follow me on:
BookBistroBlog@gmail.com
https://Twitter.com/BookBistro
www.instagram.com/BookBistroBlog
https://bookbistroblogger.blogspot.com/
https://www.facebook.com/groups/BookB...
August 21, 2015
The end of the Sensations Collection was very bittersweet. I really loved this series. While each book, including this one, can be read as a stand alone I highly recommend you read this series from the beginning. It will make you appreciate how characters from previous books will appear and you will get very satisfying updates on them. Plus, if you have grown to love the Scott and Carter families as I have it is always enjoyable to read a little more about them each time.
In fact, previous books in the series gave us glimpses of Tricia Carter. It was apparent she was unhappy and very unfulfilled in her relationship. I wanted a happy ending badly and was so happy this last book takes us on her journey. I will not give any spoilers but this story had very unexpected and unpredictable twists that I loved reading. Most of this was in Leon. L. B. Dunbar gave us a complex, antitypical and very sexy character.
Because of this series, she is one of my favorite authors who I would gladly read any day.
In fact, previous books in the series gave us glimpses of Tricia Carter. It was apparent she was unhappy and very unfulfilled in her relationship. I wanted a happy ending badly and was so happy this last book takes us on her journey. I will not give any spoilers but this story had very unexpected and unpredictable twists that I loved reading. Most of this was in Leon. L. B. Dunbar gave us a complex, antitypical and very sexy character.
Because of this series, she is one of my favorite authors who I would gladly read any day.
September 3, 2020
Read With Your Heart is book 2 in this amazing small town romance series (formerly known as Sight Words, Sensations Collection #5). I do not know the original story and now I have to ask myself "WHY?". Why did I not read this series sooner??
This is the story about Tricia Carter and Leon Ramirez. Tricia is married but soon to be divorced, hopefully. She´s a selfless and strong woman with an amazing family, she´s adorable and the sweetest woman I have ever seen/read. She gives without taking and it´s a pleasure to witness such greatness.
Leon Ramirez life wasn´t (and isn´t) easy. He´s new in Elk Lake City, he´s responsible for his younger sisters and people usually don´t offer their help because of his past and his appearance. He never expected his neighbor Tricia. She not only offers to help with his sisters, she also offers her house to him, when they can´t stay at their own.
I love how their relationship slowly develops, how they need and complete each other, how Tricia is with Leons sisters. Yes, Leon sometimes is mean and he´s not perfect, but he´s perfect for Tricia. This is a beautiful small town romance, with beautiful people and the perfect HEA.
This is the story about Tricia Carter and Leon Ramirez. Tricia is married but soon to be divorced, hopefully. She´s a selfless and strong woman with an amazing family, she´s adorable and the sweetest woman I have ever seen/read. She gives without taking and it´s a pleasure to witness such greatness.
Leon Ramirez life wasn´t (and isn´t) easy. He´s new in Elk Lake City, he´s responsible for his younger sisters and people usually don´t offer their help because of his past and his appearance. He never expected his neighbor Tricia. She not only offers to help with his sisters, she also offers her house to him, when they can´t stay at their own.
I love how their relationship slowly develops, how they need and complete each other, how Tricia is with Leons sisters. Yes, Leon sometimes is mean and he´s not perfect, but he´s perfect for Tricia. This is a beautiful small town romance, with beautiful people and the perfect HEA.
September 4, 2020
I loved this story. Leon is a stranger in the small town - he has his reasons. He is seen as “dangerous” for wearing black, riding a motorcycle and having tattoos. But looks are deceiving....
Tricia has lived there all of her life, but she keeps a secret from her friends and family.
This story touched me because I have been in a situation similar to Tricia’s. It is interesting how Leon had a sense when he first met her, and it can be like that sometimes - someone not familiar can figure it out, while people you know don’t have a clue.
It was fun how they both spied on each other at night, across the driveway, before they truly knew who lived next door! Leon is such a sweet and caring man, just what Tricia needs to get over her ex-husband.
Tricia has lived there all of her life, but she keeps a secret from her friends and family.
This story touched me because I have been in a situation similar to Tricia’s. It is interesting how Leon had a sense when he first met her, and it can be like that sometimes - someone not familiar can figure it out, while people you know don’t have a clue.
It was fun how they both spied on each other at night, across the driveway, before they truly knew who lived next door! Leon is such a sweet and caring man, just what Tricia needs to get over her ex-husband.
December 19, 2022
Five months ago, Tricia left her abusive husband of ten years since then he’s been relentlessly stalking her.
He abused her, and his younger brother, Levi. He threatened her and refused to divorce her. Even in death, he left behind an envelope for her with the unsigned, torn up divorce papers, along with a cryptic message that she’ll always belong to him.
One of the gravest mistakes victims often make, is their failure to document the abuse.
She left her parents’ home for college and returned to Elk Lake City to marry her hometown beau whom she’d connected with her junior year of college. They’d moved into a cabin on the back of his family’s property, and even after a decade of marriage, it felt more like a bachelor’s hunting hangout than a home.
Tricia and Leon are each on personal journeys. Levi’s from ‘The Heart Remembers’. She helped raise him since he was two and her greatest regret is leaving him behind. Their father is a drunk.
Tricia Carter is a natural-born nurturer. A high school teacher, the youngest sister of a tightly-knit family; an educator and a survivor.
Leon Ramirez is a dangerous-looking, pierced, tattooed stranger, dressed in leather. His family is upended after the factory at which his parents worked, was raided and his parents were detained for false documentation. Inheriting his two much younger sisters, he’s looking for a fresh start from a life he wants to leave in the past. Wanting a place where nobody knew his name, and he could make a fresh start...he never expects the help and thoughtfulness of his neighbour, Tricia Walker.
Leon’s journey as the son of illegal immigrants, and his finding himself after a long road of bad decisions, working towards being a thoughtful, proud, protective man and watching his relationship with his sisters develop is heartwarming.
Leon, is determined to providing a sanctuary for his two younger sisters and he doesn’t always have all the answers. He was imprisoned for grand theft auto, he stole cars, stripped the parts, and sold them. He got caught and served three years. He’s now been out for a year. He’s also become mother, father, brother, and caretaker to his two impressionable younger sisters.
Tricia is starting over, gaining her freedom from her soon-to-be-abusive ex, making a home for herself. When their home is declared unsafe, Leon and his sisters are in need of a place to stay, Tricia’s brother, Jess, suggests they help each other out as she needs a roommate.
Leon is new to town and wants to keep a low profile, read some Shakespeare, play some hoops and be the guardian of his two much younger sisters. Leon loves his sisters he just does not know them very well because of their age gap. He also enjoys covertly watching his neighbour as she reads at night.
An emotional Lena finally contacts Lys. She’s pregnant.
“Lena, listen to me. Get to Leon. He’s going to protect you. He’ll help you.”
“He’ll hate me, I’m the filler child, did you know that, Tricia? They had me to replace Israel. They wanted me to fix them, and this . . . this will crush my parents”.
“Who’s the father, Lena?”
“His name is Hector Ortiz. He’s from here. He . . . he . . . he killed our brother.”
Leon doesn’t answer her calls and Lena is stranded.
Tricia and Emily decide to drive to Chicago to rescue Lena.
“So you saw Hector.” I swallow around the name, sick again that this child got mixed up in adult games and slept with someone almost double her age. The same someone who killed a brother she never knew.
“He denies it’s his. He doesn’t want anything to do with me. I was so stupid.”
How do you tell a girl you agree when you also wish to show sympathy?
Leon is Hispanic, a former gang member, and has also served time in prison for theft. He is trying to improve his life and become a better person, when suddenly he is given responsibility for his two younger sisters. He was eighteen when Lena (Magdalena) was born and by the time Lys (Amaryllis) was born, he had left. He dropped out of high school and left home after their brother Israel was killed at sixteen. Shot dead right in front of their flat.
Israel and Leon were close. Best of friends. He didn’t handle Israel’s death very well..
Leon has had a rough life and hopes to make a better life for his sisters. He may look like the typical biker, with his bike, jacket and dark colors, but his heart is in a good place.
Tricia’s marriage to Trent was disastrous, to save her sanity, she attempts to divorce him, but he refuses to let her go, and continues to make her miserable.
As neighbours, Leon and Tricia meet when she finds out that she is the teacher for his younger sister, a sister that has some learning disabilities. Slowly they begin to develop a friendship, and due to a faulty central heating unit at Leon’s rental house, they end up living with Tricia.
When Tricia’s father died, her interest in having a child increased. She was thirty and Trent and herself had been married eight years. When she got pregnant, Trent wasn’t happy. He pushed her and she fell and landed funny, she was ten weeks along. The baby never survived.
Trent’s suicide and refusal to sign the divorce papers, leaves Tricia concerned for Levi.
Tricia might not have wished to remain married to him anymore but she didn’t wish him dead. Trent claimed she owned his heart yet broke hers repeatedly. Trent protected Levi in some ways and hurt him in others. Levi’s mum abandoned him and his father’s a drunk. Tricia vows to lavish Levi with all the love she can in whatever manner he’ll allow.
A reformed gang member who loves his motorcycle, Shakespeare, and babies.
A lovely dedication from the author.
He abused her, and his younger brother, Levi. He threatened her and refused to divorce her. Even in death, he left behind an envelope for her with the unsigned, torn up divorce papers, along with a cryptic message that she’ll always belong to him.
One of the gravest mistakes victims often make, is their failure to document the abuse.
She left her parents’ home for college and returned to Elk Lake City to marry her hometown beau whom she’d connected with her junior year of college. They’d moved into a cabin on the back of his family’s property, and even after a decade of marriage, it felt more like a bachelor’s hunting hangout than a home.
Tricia and Leon are each on personal journeys. Levi’s from ‘The Heart Remembers’. She helped raise him since he was two and her greatest regret is leaving him behind. Their father is a drunk.
Tricia Carter is a natural-born nurturer. A high school teacher, the youngest sister of a tightly-knit family; an educator and a survivor.
Leon Ramirez is a dangerous-looking, pierced, tattooed stranger, dressed in leather. His family is upended after the factory at which his parents worked, was raided and his parents were detained for false documentation. Inheriting his two much younger sisters, he’s looking for a fresh start from a life he wants to leave in the past. Wanting a place where nobody knew his name, and he could make a fresh start...he never expects the help and thoughtfulness of his neighbour, Tricia Walker.
Leon’s journey as the son of illegal immigrants, and his finding himself after a long road of bad decisions, working towards being a thoughtful, proud, protective man and watching his relationship with his sisters develop is heartwarming.
Leon, is determined to providing a sanctuary for his two younger sisters and he doesn’t always have all the answers. He was imprisoned for grand theft auto, he stole cars, stripped the parts, and sold them. He got caught and served three years. He’s now been out for a year. He’s also become mother, father, brother, and caretaker to his two impressionable younger sisters.
Tricia is starting over, gaining her freedom from her soon-to-be-abusive ex, making a home for herself. When their home is declared unsafe, Leon and his sisters are in need of a place to stay, Tricia’s brother, Jess, suggests they help each other out as she needs a roommate.
Leon is new to town and wants to keep a low profile, read some Shakespeare, play some hoops and be the guardian of his two much younger sisters. Leon loves his sisters he just does not know them very well because of their age gap. He also enjoys covertly watching his neighbour as she reads at night.
An emotional Lena finally contacts Lys. She’s pregnant.
“Lena, listen to me. Get to Leon. He’s going to protect you. He’ll help you.”
“He’ll hate me, I’m the filler child, did you know that, Tricia? They had me to replace Israel. They wanted me to fix them, and this . . . this will crush my parents”.
“Who’s the father, Lena?”
“His name is Hector Ortiz. He’s from here. He . . . he . . . he killed our brother.”
Leon doesn’t answer her calls and Lena is stranded.
Tricia and Emily decide to drive to Chicago to rescue Lena.
“So you saw Hector.” I swallow around the name, sick again that this child got mixed up in adult games and slept with someone almost double her age. The same someone who killed a brother she never knew.
“He denies it’s his. He doesn’t want anything to do with me. I was so stupid.”
How do you tell a girl you agree when you also wish to show sympathy?
Leon is Hispanic, a former gang member, and has also served time in prison for theft. He is trying to improve his life and become a better person, when suddenly he is given responsibility for his two younger sisters. He was eighteen when Lena (Magdalena) was born and by the time Lys (Amaryllis) was born, he had left. He dropped out of high school and left home after their brother Israel was killed at sixteen. Shot dead right in front of their flat.
Israel and Leon were close. Best of friends. He didn’t handle Israel’s death very well..
Leon has had a rough life and hopes to make a better life for his sisters. He may look like the typical biker, with his bike, jacket and dark colors, but his heart is in a good place.
Tricia’s marriage to Trent was disastrous, to save her sanity, she attempts to divorce him, but he refuses to let her go, and continues to make her miserable.
As neighbours, Leon and Tricia meet when she finds out that she is the teacher for his younger sister, a sister that has some learning disabilities. Slowly they begin to develop a friendship, and due to a faulty central heating unit at Leon’s rental house, they end up living with Tricia.
When Tricia’s father died, her interest in having a child increased. She was thirty and Trent and herself had been married eight years. When she got pregnant, Trent wasn’t happy. He pushed her and she fell and landed funny, she was ten weeks along. The baby never survived.
Trent’s suicide and refusal to sign the divorce papers, leaves Tricia concerned for Levi.
Tricia might not have wished to remain married to him anymore but she didn’t wish him dead. Trent claimed she owned his heart yet broke hers repeatedly. Trent protected Levi in some ways and hurt him in others. Levi’s mum abandoned him and his father’s a drunk. Tricia vows to lavish Levi with all the love she can in whatever manner he’ll allow.
A reformed gang member who loves his motorcycle, Shakespeare, and babies.
A lovely dedication from the author.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
September 15, 2020
I totally enjoyed this straight to the heart story from LB Dunbar. Wanting to change your life is the main theme of the story for both main characters. Tricia has kept her past haunts and hurts from all those who love her and is doing all she can to both forget it and forge a future for herself that she has dreamed about. Leon has had a super rough past and although all he wants is peace and no trouble, could anyone ever really love someone with his past and can he ever really love or forgive himself. There are some dark moments, some beautiful moments and in the end, the words on the page are completely heartwarming and a nice dab of steam as well.
October 21, 2018
Holy wow!! I loved this series, but this installment blew me away! I feel like I need to re-read them all immediately- so not done with Elk Rapids.
Tricia and Leona story was one that I didn’t realize I needed, but I did!
Tricia and Leona story was one that I didn’t realize I needed, but I did!
September 5, 2020
This is my second time reading Tricia’s and Leon’s story. The story has been updated and polished from five years ago originally called sight words sensation series now Updated to Read with your heart; book 2 in the heart collection. After 5 yrs I’m still in love Tricia, Leon and the Carter Family. You are in for a real treat with this updated version. Bellow you will find my original review.
Once again we are reunited with the Carter and Scott family, Sight Words is Tricia’s story. She has recently broken up with her long time boyfriend Trent Walker. We will find out later in the story that Trent was not the sweet home town boy everyone thought he was and Tricia was better off without him. Tricia’s life is turned upside down when a stranger arrives in town with his two young sisters. Leon Ramirez is hot and dangerous. He and his family is befriended by the Carter Family, Jess helps him out by giving a job. There is a strong attraction between Tricia and Leon, but both their past and secrets are holding them back. I don’t want to give to much away but, Leon has to go back to Chicago and seek permission to be released from the gang he was apart of during his youth. Before he leaves Elk Rapids, Leon breaks Tricia’s heart in order to protect her from being destroyed by his past. You’ll have to read the Story to find out if he wins Tricia’s heart back when he returns to Elk Rapids, but he must get past her brothers Jess and Tom first. I have really enjoyed the Sensations Collection and sad to say good bye to the Carter and Scott Family’s and the Town of Elk Rapids. Thank you so much for sharing their Stories with us, L. B. you are a very talented story teller.
Once again we are reunited with the Carter and Scott family, Sight Words is Tricia’s story. She has recently broken up with her long time boyfriend Trent Walker. We will find out later in the story that Trent was not the sweet home town boy everyone thought he was and Tricia was better off without him. Tricia’s life is turned upside down when a stranger arrives in town with his two young sisters. Leon Ramirez is hot and dangerous. He and his family is befriended by the Carter Family, Jess helps him out by giving a job. There is a strong attraction between Tricia and Leon, but both their past and secrets are holding them back. I don’t want to give to much away but, Leon has to go back to Chicago and seek permission to be released from the gang he was apart of during his youth. Before he leaves Elk Rapids, Leon breaks Tricia’s heart in order to protect her from being destroyed by his past. You’ll have to read the Story to find out if he wins Tricia’s heart back when he returns to Elk Rapids, but he must get past her brothers Jess and Tom first. I have really enjoyed the Sensations Collection and sad to say good bye to the Carter and Scott Family’s and the Town of Elk Rapids. Thank you so much for sharing their Stories with us, L. B. you are a very talented story teller.
June 12, 2015
Sight Words (Sensations Collection, #5)
by L.B. Dunbar
My first thought when I started reading Sight Words was complicated, yes the relationship between Tricia Carter and Leon Ramirez is complicated.
This is the end of a series, I have not read any of the other books, I plan on reading them but I had no problems understanding this book.
Tricia lives in a small Michigan town, a school teacher. She has an ex-boyfriend, who definitely isn’t good enough for her.
Her classroom overlooks the basketball court, were lately a tall good looking man plays every morning. Tricia really enjoyed watching him play.
Leon Ramirez moves from Chicago to a small town in Michigan. He brought with him his two younger sisters. His parents are in Mexico, and he is there hiding out and taking care of his sisters, or try to take care of his sisters. He plays basketball every morning after dropping his sister off at school.
Well I personally think it is fate that Tricia and Leon meet, not in the best of circumstances but so perfect and complicated.
There is so much in this story, why is Leon there and why is he hiding out there? And what is Tricia story? I mean everyone has one. And this one is complicated but so worth reading. I really hope you enjoy reading this book as I did.
I would say I loved this complicated romantic series. This book is great and I can’t wait to read the previous stories.
I did receive this book in exchange for an honest review.
by L.B. Dunbar
My first thought when I started reading Sight Words was complicated, yes the relationship between Tricia Carter and Leon Ramirez is complicated.
This is the end of a series, I have not read any of the other books, I plan on reading them but I had no problems understanding this book.
Tricia lives in a small Michigan town, a school teacher. She has an ex-boyfriend, who definitely isn’t good enough for her.
Her classroom overlooks the basketball court, were lately a tall good looking man plays every morning. Tricia really enjoyed watching him play.
Leon Ramirez moves from Chicago to a small town in Michigan. He brought with him his two younger sisters. His parents are in Mexico, and he is there hiding out and taking care of his sisters, or try to take care of his sisters. He plays basketball every morning after dropping his sister off at school.
Well I personally think it is fate that Tricia and Leon meet, not in the best of circumstances but so perfect and complicated.
There is so much in this story, why is Leon there and why is he hiding out there? And what is Tricia story? I mean everyone has one. And this one is complicated but so worth reading. I really hope you enjoy reading this book as I did.
I would say I loved this complicated romantic series. This book is great and I can’t wait to read the previous stories.
I did receive this book in exchange for an honest review.
June 6, 2015
I must admit I have read all of the other books in this series, and I kinda had an idea going into each book what to expect. But Sight Words I couldn't guess where Dunbar was taking it if I tried. I have loved and enjoy each book in the series and I believe I love and enjoyed this book more then the rest. Tricia is women a lot of women can relate to, looking for love in the wrong places, but believing that theres nothing else out there for her has resulted in the long relationship she had. With a new found strength Tricia believes she will live the single life and give up on a HEA for the time.
In comes Leon is just wants to get through the next few months, trying to be the man for his family and make up for the heartache he believes he cause. He has not time for love or setting roots down in town.
Their attraction to each other is like magnets, a strong pull then a strong push. Not wanting to give in but can't help to. Both have their secrets that are unwilling to share.
Sight Words is an beautiful book, and I'm so sad the series is over. I would love more from his couple.
ARC given for honest review. Thank you LB
In comes Leon is just wants to get through the next few months, trying to be the man for his family and make up for the heartache he believes he cause. He has not time for love or setting roots down in town.
Their attraction to each other is like magnets, a strong pull then a strong push. Not wanting to give in but can't help to. Both have their secrets that are unwilling to share.
Sight Words is an beautiful book, and I'm so sad the series is over. I would love more from his couple.
ARC given for honest review. Thank you LB
December 11, 2020
3.5 stars
I like the start, thought the ending failed.
Tricia Carter, a small town high school teacher. Leon Ramirez ex-con caring for his 2 sisters and full of attitude. Two different worlds pulled together. Tricia is a strong female lead but I didn't like Leon that much, he is a d**k to his sisters, to her. There are bad boy alphas and bad alphas he is the latter IMO.
Tricia i sweet, strong and goes over what's expected for him. Caring for his sisters at times more than he does it seem. I love his sisters and the secondary characters. Just didn't like Leon. Thus, 3.5 stars but the book is well written and well paced by LB Dunbar.
I like the start, thought the ending failed.
Tricia Carter, a small town high school teacher. Leon Ramirez ex-con caring for his 2 sisters and full of attitude. Two different worlds pulled together. Tricia is a strong female lead but I didn't like Leon that much, he is a d**k to his sisters, to her. There are bad boy alphas and bad alphas he is the latter IMO.
Tricia i sweet, strong and goes over what's expected for him. Caring for his sisters at times more than he does it seem. I love his sisters and the secondary characters. Just didn't like Leon. Thus, 3.5 stars but the book is well written and well paced by LB Dunbar.
September 5, 2020
Why you need to read this book
- Leon -- sigh. He will be your next BBF. So intense yet so romantic
- Tricia -- a sassy heroine. She has a heart of gold and wants to help everyone.
- Both Leon and Tricia have tragedy in their past
- Love the story of all the secondary characters
- Steamy and sexy
- Angsty
- Small town
- Romantic
- Leon -- sigh. He will be your next BBF. So intense yet so romantic
- Tricia -- a sassy heroine. She has a heart of gold and wants to help everyone.
- Both Leon and Tricia have tragedy in their past
- Love the story of all the secondary characters
- Steamy and sexy
- Angsty
- Small town
- Romantic
September 9, 2020
Read With Your Heart – by L. B. Dunbar
Tricia Carter (Walker) has found herself a new home and she is pumped about it. She has struck a great deal with her landlady and she may need a roommate, but for now she just needs to move in. New home, new job teaching freshman English can it get any better?
Leon Ramirez has only recently moved into his new home as well, fully furnished, he’s able to afford the rent and other bills and he is getting his fresh start. Until the night he is about to walk into the Town Tavern only to have a pretty riled up lady walk right into him. Without an introduction, he ends up giving this pretty lady some support (like holding her up) while a man comes out of the Tavern yelling at her, raising he voice, showing a threatening demeanor. He volunteers to walk her home and of course that is when the both realize they are the next-door neighbors they have “watched” through the bedroom windows.
Tricia knows that looking at Leon no matter what he has on or off (oh yes, she went there) is easy on the eyes and her active imagination, Leon knows the exact same thing; he would look at her any time the chance presented itself.
This story is full of every day human issues, Leon’s younger sister is having problems at school, without Tricia bringing up those problems there’s a chance he never would have known about her learning issues and what kind of support she’s had in the past. Then there’s Lina, his other sister, who’s a very smart young adult, her problems aren’t school related their personal and she won’t involve Leon, that is dangerous for every body.
Tricia has been dealing with her hopefully soon to be ex-husband. She has served Trent with divorce papers, he isn’t signing and he is keeping very close unhealthy tabs on Tricia.
This story starts out sweet, new beginnings, then educational issues arise, there are threats of physical danger, and there is a man on a bike who swears to protect some one special lady. Through all of this there is something Leon and Tricia thought they would never have, a home, a relationship, support as well as a true family. Isn’t all of that something each person should be able to reach for and achieve?
L. B. Dunbar has brought this book rewrite out at the right time. She has also brought to the forefront a number of issues that are often not talked about and certainly not put out on the table the way she has. Right there in front of you….read them and learn.
Having the Carter family from Read With Your Heart gives readers a growing sense of community, family and acceptance.
Tricia Carter (Walker) has found herself a new home and she is pumped about it. She has struck a great deal with her landlady and she may need a roommate, but for now she just needs to move in. New home, new job teaching freshman English can it get any better?
Leon Ramirez has only recently moved into his new home as well, fully furnished, he’s able to afford the rent and other bills and he is getting his fresh start. Until the night he is about to walk into the Town Tavern only to have a pretty riled up lady walk right into him. Without an introduction, he ends up giving this pretty lady some support (like holding her up) while a man comes out of the Tavern yelling at her, raising he voice, showing a threatening demeanor. He volunteers to walk her home and of course that is when the both realize they are the next-door neighbors they have “watched” through the bedroom windows.
Tricia knows that looking at Leon no matter what he has on or off (oh yes, she went there) is easy on the eyes and her active imagination, Leon knows the exact same thing; he would look at her any time the chance presented itself.
This story is full of every day human issues, Leon’s younger sister is having problems at school, without Tricia bringing up those problems there’s a chance he never would have known about her learning issues and what kind of support she’s had in the past. Then there’s Lina, his other sister, who’s a very smart young adult, her problems aren’t school related their personal and she won’t involve Leon, that is dangerous for every body.
Tricia has been dealing with her hopefully soon to be ex-husband. She has served Trent with divorce papers, he isn’t signing and he is keeping very close unhealthy tabs on Tricia.
This story starts out sweet, new beginnings, then educational issues arise, there are threats of physical danger, and there is a man on a bike who swears to protect some one special lady. Through all of this there is something Leon and Tricia thought they would never have, a home, a relationship, support as well as a true family. Isn’t all of that something each person should be able to reach for and achieve?
L. B. Dunbar has brought this book rewrite out at the right time. She has also brought to the forefront a number of issues that are often not talked about and certainly not put out on the table the way she has. Right there in front of you….read them and learn.
Having the Carter family from Read With Your Heart gives readers a growing sense of community, family and acceptance.
September 16, 2020
4.5 Stars 🌟🌟🌟🌟💫
As a fan of author L.B. Dunbar, I didn’t hesitate to read her revamped series. I always love the way she brings romance to life on the pages and the small-town romances in The Heart Collection are the perfect stories to bring back your faith in love as well as humanity.
Read with your Heart is the story of Leon and Tricia. Neighbors by chance, roommates by circumstance, lovers by choice. Both Leon and Tricia are forging a new future and trying to leave their past mistakes in the dust. Catching a break doesn’t come easy and accepting a helping hand is hard on the pride sometimes. Accepting help doesn’t make you weak, it makes you stronger and restores your belief that a better life is possible.
I fell in love with Leon from the inside out. His heart is in the right place, and now he just has to learn how to step up and be there for the ones who need him. It is unexpected and he wonders how he’ll ever manage but perseverance and a sexy neighbor with a heart of gold make for a recipe in success.
Tricia is facing her fears and standing up for herself, in secret. She has lived through some emotionally and physically damaging events, and now she is finally on her own and ready to see what the world has in store for her. She definitely wasn’t expecting to become a peeping-tom on her grumpy neighbor, but what else was she to do when he looks so fine through his bedroom window.
These two might be all wrong for each other but they are also totally right together. Read with your Heart has a great storyline and brings to light some very real struggles in today’s world. Many readers will relate on a very personal level and other readers will enjoy a heartfelt story of two people surviving their mistakes and living to find each other and make themselves a home together.
As a fan of author L.B. Dunbar, I didn’t hesitate to read her revamped series. I always love the way she brings romance to life on the pages and the small-town romances in The Heart Collection are the perfect stories to bring back your faith in love as well as humanity.
Read with your Heart is the story of Leon and Tricia. Neighbors by chance, roommates by circumstance, lovers by choice. Both Leon and Tricia are forging a new future and trying to leave their past mistakes in the dust. Catching a break doesn’t come easy and accepting a helping hand is hard on the pride sometimes. Accepting help doesn’t make you weak, it makes you stronger and restores your belief that a better life is possible.
I fell in love with Leon from the inside out. His heart is in the right place, and now he just has to learn how to step up and be there for the ones who need him. It is unexpected and he wonders how he’ll ever manage but perseverance and a sexy neighbor with a heart of gold make for a recipe in success.
Tricia is facing her fears and standing up for herself, in secret. She has lived through some emotionally and physically damaging events, and now she is finally on her own and ready to see what the world has in store for her. She definitely wasn’t expecting to become a peeping-tom on her grumpy neighbor, but what else was she to do when he looks so fine through his bedroom window.
These two might be all wrong for each other but they are also totally right together. Read with your Heart has a great storyline and brings to light some very real struggles in today’s world. Many readers will relate on a very personal level and other readers will enjoy a heartfelt story of two people surviving their mistakes and living to find each other and make themselves a home together.
August 31, 2020
4.5 Stars for Read With Your Heart ( Heart Collection #2)
If I’m totally honest I struggled with the first few chapters to connect with the characters and the story but I’m so glad I persevered because this book turned into a great read. Small town romance is a genre I’m always drawn to and I loved my visit to Elk Rapids, Michigan as Ms Dunbar did a wonderful job describing this fictional town to the point of me feeling like I had actually visited this town.
They say that opposites attract and Tricia and Leon are certainly opposites but the connection they share leads to some sizzling chemistry. Leon hasn’t had an easy life but now it’s his turn to get a second chance to help his family and find happiness. This is a friends to lovers story that is built around loyalty, caring and kindness and it’s a book that will appeal to a wide range of audiences. Read With Your Heart is well written, it’s a heartfelt romance with strong characters and I’m looking forward to the next book in this series of stand-alones.
If I’m totally honest I struggled with the first few chapters to connect with the characters and the story but I’m so glad I persevered because this book turned into a great read. Small town romance is a genre I’m always drawn to and I loved my visit to Elk Rapids, Michigan as Ms Dunbar did a wonderful job describing this fictional town to the point of me feeling like I had actually visited this town.
They say that opposites attract and Tricia and Leon are certainly opposites but the connection they share leads to some sizzling chemistry. Leon hasn’t had an easy life but now it’s his turn to get a second chance to help his family and find happiness. This is a friends to lovers story that is built around loyalty, caring and kindness and it’s a book that will appeal to a wide range of audiences. Read With Your Heart is well written, it’s a heartfelt romance with strong characters and I’m looking forward to the next book in this series of stand-alones.
August 26, 2020
4.5 Star Review Read With Your Heart (Heart Collection #2) by L B Dunbar
I had a little trouble connecting to Tricia Carter and Leon Ramirez initially. However once I did I was hooked on their story. I love books that are centered around small towns and Elk Rapids, Michigan sounds like an interesting place to be.
Tricia and Leon are total opposites and yet the connection between them is intense. The chemistry between them sizzles and they soon give in to the passion that flares between them.
I loved how Leon felt he needed to protect Tricia from her horrible ex. As friendship turns to love it was entertaining to watch their relationship progress. I loved how intent Tricia was in helping Leon’s sister with her learning issues, she went above and beyond in her willingness and Leon really appreciated it.
The story was well written, the characters strong and was a heartwarming, romantic love story which I enjoyed. It was also good to see some familiar faces make an appearance.
I had a little trouble connecting to Tricia Carter and Leon Ramirez initially. However once I did I was hooked on their story. I love books that are centered around small towns and Elk Rapids, Michigan sounds like an interesting place to be.
Tricia and Leon are total opposites and yet the connection between them is intense. The chemistry between them sizzles and they soon give in to the passion that flares between them.
I loved how Leon felt he needed to protect Tricia from her horrible ex. As friendship turns to love it was entertaining to watch their relationship progress. I loved how intent Tricia was in helping Leon’s sister with her learning issues, she went above and beyond in her willingness and Leon really appreciated it.
The story was well written, the characters strong and was a heartwarming, romantic love story which I enjoyed. It was also good to see some familiar faces make an appearance.
September 11, 2020
This was a nice small town romance of bringing two people from different worlds together. Leon is new in town and trying to get a fresh start after serving some time. Tricia is a small town high school teacher with her own baggage. I like how these two come together from opposite perspectives yet still have some fabulous chemistry. There are definitely some tough issues discussed in this book with Leon’s family and background and the Tricias ex-husband and those skeletons.
This book came together at a good pace although I do feel there were a few little holes along the way.
This book came together at a good pace although I do feel there were a few little holes along the way.
January 10, 2023
Leon was a sweetheart when it came to Tricia and their chemistry was HOT. My favorite of the series so far.
June 2, 2015
What to say about this book and series? I can only tell you what I thought, and hope you give them a chance to capture your heart as well. I fell in love with each character as the series evolved. Jess and Emily pulled at my heart strings first with Sound Advice. I kid you not when I say that I rushed to buy the first book in this series when I heard about it in one of LB Dunbar's author takeovers. I instantly found myself related to Emily. Ever since I have been a fan of of this writer. She has a style of her own and will captivate your attention. Make you feel what the characters are feeling and at one point or another reminisce of your own vulnerable moment where you hope and wish for something that will make you happy. These books will touch your heart, make you cry, laugh, and smile. Such sweet romance with a bit of tragedy, since life isn't whole if we never deal with some bad to appreciate the good.
Tricia's story in Sight Words is a wonderful end to this series. Brings it full circle, and if you have read her series you will know. If you haven't what are you waiting for? It will be a great decision. She is the youngest of the group, who regardless of what life has thrown at her, she has faced the challenges, and moved beyond it to become the amazing person she is. It's great to see how different she is from her sister. It was easy to like her, and understand how she felt for me. Coming from a good size family with three siblings and being one of the youngest I could easily put myself in her shoes during some emotional moments. I loved how easily the chemistry flowed between the characters and not just in a romantic way. She had to find herself, think only of herself but still be the caring person she is. Sometimes we lose ourselves when we put others before us. It was all this that made Tricia so personable and easy to like.
Now Leon "King"! This young man has my respect and admiration even if he is only a character. Through our lives we learn to overcome stereotypes and find our way. Yet, for some of us it isn't always easy. Leon shows us how hard, dangerous, and sad our paths in life can be. Yet, he also shows us that the choice always lies within us. He made me think of my upbringing and of family members. Sometimes it is within our own family we have to face certain traditions we must follow, certain things that are expected from us. I was lucky to have parent who fought for me to have a better future, but some face a different path. Have to grow up faster than expected and some enter a world that isn't glamorous and sometimes deadly. Leon faced the road that was more common and harder. Gang life, demanding father, and growing up at a young age. I was proud to see him want more in his life. Find a way to get past it. His story is one you want to read.
Two great characters who are trying to find their place, add romance to the mix, and some action to keep you on your toes. This book touched me just like the others, but also made me appreciate what I have a bit more. We make our own history if we fight for it. If you didn't catch it the first few times I said it, let me tell you how much I loved this book, and series. Oh, and keep an eye out for words that will grab your attention ;) in unexpected ways.
Perfect ending to this series. A bit sad it's come full circle, but here is crossing fingers we might get a surprise or two down the road. Some characters stay with you even when they aren't the main ones. Thank you LB for writing such amazing books. Your mind is amazing and look forward to what else you will think up and put on paper.
Tricia's story in Sight Words is a wonderful end to this series. Brings it full circle, and if you have read her series you will know. If you haven't what are you waiting for? It will be a great decision. She is the youngest of the group, who regardless of what life has thrown at her, she has faced the challenges, and moved beyond it to become the amazing person she is. It's great to see how different she is from her sister. It was easy to like her, and understand how she felt for me. Coming from a good size family with three siblings and being one of the youngest I could easily put myself in her shoes during some emotional moments. I loved how easily the chemistry flowed between the characters and not just in a romantic way. She had to find herself, think only of herself but still be the caring person she is. Sometimes we lose ourselves when we put others before us. It was all this that made Tricia so personable and easy to like.
Now Leon "King"! This young man has my respect and admiration even if he is only a character. Through our lives we learn to overcome stereotypes and find our way. Yet, for some of us it isn't always easy. Leon shows us how hard, dangerous, and sad our paths in life can be. Yet, he also shows us that the choice always lies within us. He made me think of my upbringing and of family members. Sometimes it is within our own family we have to face certain traditions we must follow, certain things that are expected from us. I was lucky to have parent who fought for me to have a better future, but some face a different path. Have to grow up faster than expected and some enter a world that isn't glamorous and sometimes deadly. Leon faced the road that was more common and harder. Gang life, demanding father, and growing up at a young age. I was proud to see him want more in his life. Find a way to get past it. His story is one you want to read.
Two great characters who are trying to find their place, add romance to the mix, and some action to keep you on your toes. This book touched me just like the others, but also made me appreciate what I have a bit more. We make our own history if we fight for it. If you didn't catch it the first few times I said it, let me tell you how much I loved this book, and series. Oh, and keep an eye out for words that will grab your attention ;) in unexpected ways.
Perfect ending to this series. A bit sad it's come full circle, but here is crossing fingers we might get a surprise or two down the road. Some characters stay with you even when they aren't the main ones. Thank you LB for writing such amazing books. Your mind is amazing and look forward to what else you will think up and put on paper.
October 16, 2015
**I received an ARC for an honest review.**
I will start this review off by saying that I LOVE every book in this series and this book was an excellent end to a SENSATIONAL SERIES.
From the beginning, in Sound Advice, we met Tricia Carter and her long time boyfriend Trent Walker. I loved her character from the start because of her selfless personality. She did so much for her family and she was just always genuine in who she was each and every time we see her. Over the last few books we got the sense that she wasn't happy in her relationship with Trent and boy what an understatement that was. I did not see the pretty heave stuff that came of that relationship coming. I just thought that her and Trent were simply in a rut and too comfortable with their relationship, but that could not be further from the truth. When it finally is revealed what all Tricia went through in her relationship with Trent it was heartbreaking, because she kept it all to herself, all because she did want to ruin someone who was already ruined to begin with.
At the beginning of Sight Words Tricia is just starting a new school year, at a new school, and with her newly single status. She isn't all that hopeful that the will find new love in the small town of Elk Rapids and she is even less hopeful when she keeps running into Trent. But that all changes when she looks out the window of her classroom and watches the physically fit man play basketball everyday and the same time.
Leon Ramirez. This is the first appearance of "King" of the whole series. He is new to town and has his priorities already lined out. Take care of his sisters and lay low, but he can't take care of his sisters without financial stability so he works not one, not two, but three jobs to take care of his sisters when his mother and father are forced to leave the country. He struggles to keep the afloat and he is working so hard to follow his fathers orders. He tries to stay under the radar, but it is hard when your are in a small town where everyone knows everyone. Not only that but the chemistry that he feels between him and Ms. Carter. He tries to fight it, because he knows he can't risk bringing her into his life.
I loved that Tricia was such a genuine person when it came to wanting to help the Ramirez family. Even though Leon was constantly pulling and pushing her away. I enjoyed the build up of their relationship over the period of time that the Ramirez Family lived in Elk Rapids. The connection of Leon and Tricia was great to watch grow from how it started to the way it ended up. I loved every bit of their story because it felt real and never far fetched or rushed. There are so many things that are going on in both Tricia and Leon's worlds and when they all come to light it is so much easier to understand what makes them both tick. I enjoyed both of them as individual characters and I LOVED them as a couple.
I said before that this was a great in to a great series and do recommend this whole series as a must read. LB Dunbar does an excellent job of drawing you into Elk Rapids and into the Scott and Carter families as if you grew up with these people all of your life. I fell in love with Jess and Emily, Ethan and Ella, Jacob and Pam, Gavin and Britton, and Tricia and Leon. I loved that in every book all of the previous characters made an appearance and I kept falling in love with them more. This group of people are such good friends and are always there for each other. It is a heartwarming series with fantastic and easy to love characters.
I will start this review off by saying that I LOVE every book in this series and this book was an excellent end to a SENSATIONAL SERIES.
From the beginning, in Sound Advice, we met Tricia Carter and her long time boyfriend Trent Walker. I loved her character from the start because of her selfless personality. She did so much for her family and she was just always genuine in who she was each and every time we see her. Over the last few books we got the sense that she wasn't happy in her relationship with Trent and boy what an understatement that was. I did not see the pretty heave stuff that came of that relationship coming. I just thought that her and Trent were simply in a rut and too comfortable with their relationship, but that could not be further from the truth. When it finally is revealed what all Tricia went through in her relationship with Trent it was heartbreaking, because she kept it all to herself, all because she did want to ruin someone who was already ruined to begin with.
At the beginning of Sight Words Tricia is just starting a new school year, at a new school, and with her newly single status. She isn't all that hopeful that the will find new love in the small town of Elk Rapids and she is even less hopeful when she keeps running into Trent. But that all changes when she looks out the window of her classroom and watches the physically fit man play basketball everyday and the same time.
Leon Ramirez. This is the first appearance of "King" of the whole series. He is new to town and has his priorities already lined out. Take care of his sisters and lay low, but he can't take care of his sisters without financial stability so he works not one, not two, but three jobs to take care of his sisters when his mother and father are forced to leave the country. He struggles to keep the afloat and he is working so hard to follow his fathers orders. He tries to stay under the radar, but it is hard when your are in a small town where everyone knows everyone. Not only that but the chemistry that he feels between him and Ms. Carter. He tries to fight it, because he knows he can't risk bringing her into his life.
I loved that Tricia was such a genuine person when it came to wanting to help the Ramirez family. Even though Leon was constantly pulling and pushing her away. I enjoyed the build up of their relationship over the period of time that the Ramirez Family lived in Elk Rapids. The connection of Leon and Tricia was great to watch grow from how it started to the way it ended up. I loved every bit of their story because it felt real and never far fetched or rushed. There are so many things that are going on in both Tricia and Leon's worlds and when they all come to light it is so much easier to understand what makes them both tick. I enjoyed both of them as individual characters and I LOVED them as a couple.
I said before that this was a great in to a great series and do recommend this whole series as a must read. LB Dunbar does an excellent job of drawing you into Elk Rapids and into the Scott and Carter families as if you grew up with these people all of your life. I fell in love with Jess and Emily, Ethan and Ella, Jacob and Pam, Gavin and Britton, and Tricia and Leon. I loved that in every book all of the previous characters made an appearance and I kept falling in love with them more. This group of people are such good friends and are always there for each other. It is a heartwarming series with fantastic and easy to love characters.
May 15, 2015
I have been an avid fan of LB Dunbar since I read her book Taste Test, a part of the Sensations Collection. Each book spins its tale in relationship to a particular sense. I have to say, I love the entire collection but Ms. Dunbar has saved the best for last. Sight Words is an inspired finale to the series. So many things resonate with me on a personal level, I believe that is why I take this story to heart. I will say by page three I was so drawn into the story I stayed up very late to keep reading and again the second night. The story of Tricia and Leon grabs the reader by the chest and refuses to let go. The family ties in Elk Rapids run deep and the reader gets to see what the character of previous books have been up to.
I can tell you from experience that reformed bad boys turn into wonderful men. Leon Ramirez is a bad boy on his way to becoming a wonderful, responsible man. Given too much responsibility at an early age, there is no other way for him to turn out, eventually. Tricia Carter feels adrift in her hometown, recently breaking off a long term relationship that everyone but her thought was perfect. Everyone seems to find their HEA's but her. Tricia and Leon meet when she becomes Leon's sister's teacher. The attraction is instantaneous. Barriers are thrown up around both hearts for different reasons, but a common theme is both characters feel unworthy of love. Both characters harbor secrets that make them feel that what they feel cannot be.
The book hits on some very real issues that hit close to home. I work in education, so daily I see children struggling to learn and needing more help than their family can provide. I see children raising younger brothers and sisters because their parents work all of the time or have been deported. Ties to gangs, teenage pregnancy, and abuse are all issues that we see everyday. Ms. Dunbar touches on these in such a way that the reader feels the angst of the characters and the pain in their souls.
At the heart of Sight Words is family. The responsibility that Leon takes on for his sisters shows his deep commitment to family. While chronologically he is younger than Tricia he is wise beyond his years from his upbringing. He is a man determined to make his life better and make his family proud. Fans of the Sensations Collection already know how deeply the theme of family ties the series together. While Tricia belongs to a large, loving extended family, she longs for one of her own. The characters in this book are so clearly drawn I feel as if I know them. The chemistry between characters is genuine and the sex scenes are sensual and hot. There are twists in the plot that keep the reader guessing until the very end. My recommendation is to visit Elk Rapids and meet the families. You will love them and like me you will hope that there are more stories in the future coming from the small town in Michigan.
I can tell you from experience that reformed bad boys turn into wonderful men. Leon Ramirez is a bad boy on his way to becoming a wonderful, responsible man. Given too much responsibility at an early age, there is no other way for him to turn out, eventually. Tricia Carter feels adrift in her hometown, recently breaking off a long term relationship that everyone but her thought was perfect. Everyone seems to find their HEA's but her. Tricia and Leon meet when she becomes Leon's sister's teacher. The attraction is instantaneous. Barriers are thrown up around both hearts for different reasons, but a common theme is both characters feel unworthy of love. Both characters harbor secrets that make them feel that what they feel cannot be.
The book hits on some very real issues that hit close to home. I work in education, so daily I see children struggling to learn and needing more help than their family can provide. I see children raising younger brothers and sisters because their parents work all of the time or have been deported. Ties to gangs, teenage pregnancy, and abuse are all issues that we see everyday. Ms. Dunbar touches on these in such a way that the reader feels the angst of the characters and the pain in their souls.
At the heart of Sight Words is family. The responsibility that Leon takes on for his sisters shows his deep commitment to family. While chronologically he is younger than Tricia he is wise beyond his years from his upbringing. He is a man determined to make his life better and make his family proud. Fans of the Sensations Collection already know how deeply the theme of family ties the series together. While Tricia belongs to a large, loving extended family, she longs for one of her own. The characters in this book are so clearly drawn I feel as if I know them. The chemistry between characters is genuine and the sex scenes are sensual and hot. There are twists in the plot that keep the reader guessing until the very end. My recommendation is to visit Elk Rapids and meet the families. You will love them and like me you will hope that there are more stories in the future coming from the small town in Michigan.
June 10, 2015
Gifted for an honest review – 4 ½ stars
What can I say? I think I’m at the point with this author’s work that I could just pick up any book she writes without looking at the blurb and enjoy it. That doesn’t often happen with me. I haven’t yet read all of LBs work but from what I’ve read so far this lady has me as a fan for life.
Sight Words is the last of the Sensations collection, of which there are 5 books, each concentrating on different couples from a sleepy little town of Elk Rapids.. This one is Tricia and Leon’s story. I was particularly drawn to this as I haven’t really read much on the whole gang genre, I wanted to see how LB would manage to merge these two cultures. It’s a slow burner of a book, it gets under your skin and there’s a mysteriousness as to where the author is going to take the story. There’s little curveballs along the way that keep the reader in suspense and propel the story. I liked that build up very much indeed. Anticipation is always a good thing in books and LB did a stellar job building that.
Again, the character development is second to none. I liked both characters very much. I think the reader would be forgiven for thinking Leon is much older than his years as he certainly had the weight of the world on his shoulders that he carried with a grace and style that endears the character. Tricia was easy to fall in love with too. Her easy going ways captivate you and you root for her from start to finish. It’s a very push and pull relationship that these two find themselves in with each other. You understand their reasons for pulling/holding back. They have a chemistry that is really hard to deny.
LB touches on a lot of heavy subjects in this book, some with dark themes running in them and I think that she wrote with so much feeling and emotion that she did them justice. I quite often find that the last book in a series is a hit or a miss as it can be an emotional rollercoaster for the author. LB did grand here. I can’t compare it to the rest as I haven’t managed to get to them as of yet but I’d hedge a bet that this is probably the best of the 5 books.
Knowing some personal information about LB I really like that she uses that in her books, it makes for a more believable reading experience. I had one gripe about this book though and it pulled my rating down slightly. I felt that there were one or two scenes missing. I’m an all in girl and I need everything I’m afraid. I wanted the details, when Leon takes off for 3 days to find his sister for example. There wasn’t very much information on that, just snippets in conversations later, for me that wasn’t good enough, I needed to know. So sadly I can only award the 4 ½. As always LB’s writing is top notch and simply amazing. She writes in such a passionate way that it’s really difficult not to get swept up in the emotion of it all.
I’ll say it again….keep writing, you’re a winner and your books are simply beautiful LB x
What can I say? I think I’m at the point with this author’s work that I could just pick up any book she writes without looking at the blurb and enjoy it. That doesn’t often happen with me. I haven’t yet read all of LBs work but from what I’ve read so far this lady has me as a fan for life.
Sight Words is the last of the Sensations collection, of which there are 5 books, each concentrating on different couples from a sleepy little town of Elk Rapids.. This one is Tricia and Leon’s story. I was particularly drawn to this as I haven’t really read much on the whole gang genre, I wanted to see how LB would manage to merge these two cultures. It’s a slow burner of a book, it gets under your skin and there’s a mysteriousness as to where the author is going to take the story. There’s little curveballs along the way that keep the reader in suspense and propel the story. I liked that build up very much indeed. Anticipation is always a good thing in books and LB did a stellar job building that.
Again, the character development is second to none. I liked both characters very much. I think the reader would be forgiven for thinking Leon is much older than his years as he certainly had the weight of the world on his shoulders that he carried with a grace and style that endears the character. Tricia was easy to fall in love with too. Her easy going ways captivate you and you root for her from start to finish. It’s a very push and pull relationship that these two find themselves in with each other. You understand their reasons for pulling/holding back. They have a chemistry that is really hard to deny.
LB touches on a lot of heavy subjects in this book, some with dark themes running in them and I think that she wrote with so much feeling and emotion that she did them justice. I quite often find that the last book in a series is a hit or a miss as it can be an emotional rollercoaster for the author. LB did grand here. I can’t compare it to the rest as I haven’t managed to get to them as of yet but I’d hedge a bet that this is probably the best of the 5 books.
Knowing some personal information about LB I really like that she uses that in her books, it makes for a more believable reading experience. I had one gripe about this book though and it pulled my rating down slightly. I felt that there were one or two scenes missing. I’m an all in girl and I need everything I’m afraid. I wanted the details, when Leon takes off for 3 days to find his sister for example. There wasn’t very much information on that, just snippets in conversations later, for me that wasn’t good enough, I needed to know. So sadly I can only award the 4 ½. As always LB’s writing is top notch and simply amazing. She writes in such a passionate way that it’s really difficult not to get swept up in the emotion of it all.
I’ll say it again….keep writing, you’re a winner and your books are simply beautiful LB x
June 11, 2015
I received a gifted copy in exchange for an honest review.
Sight Words is a home run of a novel. It is a story of coming home and family. It is also showing someone that they are worthy of love. Sight Words also proves the power of a kind word or gesture. What was my favorite was how a teacher and town took time to help a family and child in need. It brought me back to my own childhood of having a teacher that cared and took extra time to help me when times were difficult. When learning was more than a grade or statistic.
Meet Leon and his younger siblings. Leon at the age of twenty-two has taken on the role of parent and protector. He has moved his siblings from Chicago to a small town in Michigan. Leon is overwhelmed by having no job and being forced to take on his family. His youngest sister is struggling with her classes and when her teacher, Tricia Carter, steps into help the family a town comes together to support them. I had tears in my eyes several times as I saw the kindness of strangers. Then the unexpected happens and Leon and Tricia ignite a flame between them. Leon, unfortunately, believes that Tricia is too good for him. How do you take a gang member and reform him into a productive member of society? Ladies and gents, that is where the power of love and kindness comes in.
What I love is the recognition that L.B. Dunbar gives towards the story. In her book she describes why the story is written. To be honest, it made the story more emotional and heartwarming. L.B. does a fantastic job of bringing characters and having them make a special place in your heart. You can relate to them, and by the end of the story they touch you and become a part of your own family. I was cheering for Leon and his family all the way through the novel. And at the end of the story my eyes glistened with tears for how L.B. Dunbar came with the conclusion. It is amazing ending that will keep you thinking about it for a while after. Sight Words is worthy of a repeat read. In fact I am now going back and purchasing the prior books in the series and reading. L.B. Dunbar is a genius on how she wrote the series. Each book cover a sense such as smell or touch. That creates a unique twist that I have never seen written before.
Enjoy being with the Ramirez, Carter, and Scott family. Take a nice lemonade and enjoy sitting back and reading Leon and Tricia's story.
Sight Words is a home run of a novel. It is a story of coming home and family. It is also showing someone that they are worthy of love. Sight Words also proves the power of a kind word or gesture. What was my favorite was how a teacher and town took time to help a family and child in need. It brought me back to my own childhood of having a teacher that cared and took extra time to help me when times were difficult. When learning was more than a grade or statistic.
Meet Leon and his younger siblings. Leon at the age of twenty-two has taken on the role of parent and protector. He has moved his siblings from Chicago to a small town in Michigan. Leon is overwhelmed by having no job and being forced to take on his family. His youngest sister is struggling with her classes and when her teacher, Tricia Carter, steps into help the family a town comes together to support them. I had tears in my eyes several times as I saw the kindness of strangers. Then the unexpected happens and Leon and Tricia ignite a flame between them. Leon, unfortunately, believes that Tricia is too good for him. How do you take a gang member and reform him into a productive member of society? Ladies and gents, that is where the power of love and kindness comes in.
What I love is the recognition that L.B. Dunbar gives towards the story. In her book she describes why the story is written. To be honest, it made the story more emotional and heartwarming. L.B. does a fantastic job of bringing characters and having them make a special place in your heart. You can relate to them, and by the end of the story they touch you and become a part of your own family. I was cheering for Leon and his family all the way through the novel. And at the end of the story my eyes glistened with tears for how L.B. Dunbar came with the conclusion. It is amazing ending that will keep you thinking about it for a while after. Sight Words is worthy of a repeat read. In fact I am now going back and purchasing the prior books in the series and reading. L.B. Dunbar is a genius on how she wrote the series. Each book cover a sense such as smell or touch. That creates a unique twist that I have never seen written before.
Enjoy being with the Ramirez, Carter, and Scott family. Take a nice lemonade and enjoy sitting back and reading Leon and Tricia's story.
June 8, 2015
I received this book in return for my honest review.
Tricia Carter has been in a rut. Just leaving her longtime boyfriend and living in a small town can take a tole on someone. Finding someone isn't as easy as everyone makes it out to be, with a overbearing family and nosy best friend, the last thing Tricia thinks she will find it happiness. That is until she sees a sexy guy playing basketball outside her classroom window. He's new to town, at least she thinks he is. She knows everyone in the small town and never seen something like him before.
Leon Ramirez didn't want to move to Elk Rapids but with his parents being deported, he had no choice. Someone had to take care of his two sisters and with Leon being the oldest, the role was thrown on him. Hopefully only being here for a few weeks, Leon can't wait to get back to the city and finish what he started. However a chance meeting with Tricia Carter soon changes his mind.
There was a instant attraction between the two from the very start. Tricia can't seem to shake her attraction to this mysterious man and constantly keeps thinking about him. Leon can't get Tricia out of his mind either but knows deep down inside that he is no way worthy of someone like her. However just like all the Carter's, Tricia can't seem to not help Leon and his sisters in their time of need. Can Leon accept their help? Can Tricia get through to Leon that it is okay to lean on someone? Will both realize that even-though both has hangups, they are meant for each other? Follow this group of characters in this heartwarming story about finding love and accepting help.....
This is the first book L.B. Dunbar that I have had the privileged to review however this is the 5th book in the Sensations Collection. It could be read as a stand alone, with the author providing enough back story information to let the reader know what happened in the past. This is something that I truly appreciate. Sometimes series can tend to get stagnant after the third of fourth book but by allowing the reader to pick up a random number in a series and start to read it, is refreshing. Sight Words is a heartwarming story, that gave me so many "aahhh" moments especially the parts using "Post It Notes". After reading this, I actually went back and purchased the previous four books and can't wait to read them. Total 4 star read.
Tricia Carter has been in a rut. Just leaving her longtime boyfriend and living in a small town can take a tole on someone. Finding someone isn't as easy as everyone makes it out to be, with a overbearing family and nosy best friend, the last thing Tricia thinks she will find it happiness. That is until she sees a sexy guy playing basketball outside her classroom window. He's new to town, at least she thinks he is. She knows everyone in the small town and never seen something like him before.
Leon Ramirez didn't want to move to Elk Rapids but with his parents being deported, he had no choice. Someone had to take care of his two sisters and with Leon being the oldest, the role was thrown on him. Hopefully only being here for a few weeks, Leon can't wait to get back to the city and finish what he started. However a chance meeting with Tricia Carter soon changes his mind.
There was a instant attraction between the two from the very start. Tricia can't seem to shake her attraction to this mysterious man and constantly keeps thinking about him. Leon can't get Tricia out of his mind either but knows deep down inside that he is no way worthy of someone like her. However just like all the Carter's, Tricia can't seem to not help Leon and his sisters in their time of need. Can Leon accept their help? Can Tricia get through to Leon that it is okay to lean on someone? Will both realize that even-though both has hangups, they are meant for each other? Follow this group of characters in this heartwarming story about finding love and accepting help.....
This is the first book L.B. Dunbar that I have had the privileged to review however this is the 5th book in the Sensations Collection. It could be read as a stand alone, with the author providing enough back story information to let the reader know what happened in the past. This is something that I truly appreciate. Sometimes series can tend to get stagnant after the third of fourth book but by allowing the reader to pick up a random number in a series and start to read it, is refreshing. Sight Words is a heartwarming story, that gave me so many "aahhh" moments especially the parts using "Post It Notes". After reading this, I actually went back and purchased the previous four books and can't wait to read them. Total 4 star read.
June 8, 2015
Two opposite worlds collide in a love affair that could not be. That is what comes to mind when I think about this book. Deeply moving, full of Elk Rapids' charm and wisdom, this is the last installment in the Sensations Series.
Leon is hiding from the battling Chicago gangs he is involved with while temporarily in charge of his two younger sisters. His parents have been deported and they can no longer stay safely in Chicago. Even though Leon and his sisters were born here in the US, the plight of the illegal immigrants and the effort to fit in when your looks and skin color are different is palpable in these pages. Being "different" does not necessarily mean you are bad. Stereotypes being used to judge a person is as incorrect and perverse as judging someone by a disability.
Tricia has been waiting to find "the one" who will love her. Two failed relationships have added to her despair her dream will not come true. Her last boyfriend was abusive, and although no one suspects why she ended that relationship, they keep running into each other making her life impossible. Trent will not leave her alone to move on with her life. Loved by all in town, they are judging Trent by his surface charm and not by the reality of his personality and temperament.
When Leon and Tricia meet, sparks do fly but for a different reason. There is an undercurrent of attraction, but Leon's looks are intimidating for a small town girl. Again, judging a book by its cover is not going to bring fair results. It is only after they get to know each other better that Tricia realizes how kind and responsible he is. His family comes first and foremost. His dedication to their welfare is admirable. Beyond that, he is as lonely as she is searching for his place in this world. Their courtship is sensual and heated. When they finally succumb to their passion, the pages are on fire.
Our author's writing style is like a siren's song. Once you hear it, you are under its spell. You will not be able to put this book down.
L.B. you saved the best for last!
Leon is hiding from the battling Chicago gangs he is involved with while temporarily in charge of his two younger sisters. His parents have been deported and they can no longer stay safely in Chicago. Even though Leon and his sisters were born here in the US, the plight of the illegal immigrants and the effort to fit in when your looks and skin color are different is palpable in these pages. Being "different" does not necessarily mean you are bad. Stereotypes being used to judge a person is as incorrect and perverse as judging someone by a disability.
Tricia has been waiting to find "the one" who will love her. Two failed relationships have added to her despair her dream will not come true. Her last boyfriend was abusive, and although no one suspects why she ended that relationship, they keep running into each other making her life impossible. Trent will not leave her alone to move on with her life. Loved by all in town, they are judging Trent by his surface charm and not by the reality of his personality and temperament.
When Leon and Tricia meet, sparks do fly but for a different reason. There is an undercurrent of attraction, but Leon's looks are intimidating for a small town girl. Again, judging a book by its cover is not going to bring fair results. It is only after they get to know each other better that Tricia realizes how kind and responsible he is. His family comes first and foremost. His dedication to their welfare is admirable. Beyond that, he is as lonely as she is searching for his place in this world. Their courtship is sensual and heated. When they finally succumb to their passion, the pages are on fire.
Our author's writing style is like a siren's song. Once you hear it, you are under its spell. You will not be able to put this book down.
L.B. you saved the best for last!
June 2, 2015
I received this book from the author for an honest review.
*Sniff* I can't believe this amazing series is over. What will I do without the Cater's and the Scott's??? I guess just keep on re-reading them!!
This book was another awesome read in the series. It is super angsty and had mega loads of chemistry between our two main characters. It also had LOTS of family time. Family is such a powerful theme in the series and it is one of the main reasons I love it to be honest. We love our familes and wanna kill our familes but if we are lucky we can have supporting familes like these characters.
This book is perfect, girl next door falls in love with tatted up gang member in small town USA. Prolly not going to be very well looked at by the girls family right? Well you dont know the Carters if you think so. This family loves everyone as long as you show you have a heart that is worth it.
Tricia has been unlucky in love. This we knew but we never knew the WHY's of her relationship with her long time boyfriend Trent. Once we figured it out...wow and ouch were what I said. Leon aka King is a gang member who is hiding out . He has some serious family trouble as in immediate family and gang family. He is not about the accept any hands out. Hand outs in the gang world show weakness and he is not weak. However, handout in this small town show comapssion and just neighborly concern.
Tricia and Leon have instant attraction but they seem to trip up over the differences in how they have grown up. Leon in the hard streets of Chicago while Tricia in small town USA. He pushes and she runs. He appologized and she forgives but each is still holding back. He fears she can do better and she fears he is just like her Ex....meaning she isnt good enought.
I really enjoyed the plot and the travel of these charaters. I had times I wanted to smack him in the head and others where I was shacking my head at her. If you love the series then you need to read the conclusion to the series.
*Sniff* I can't believe this amazing series is over. What will I do without the Cater's and the Scott's??? I guess just keep on re-reading them!!
This book was another awesome read in the series. It is super angsty and had mega loads of chemistry between our two main characters. It also had LOTS of family time. Family is such a powerful theme in the series and it is one of the main reasons I love it to be honest. We love our familes and wanna kill our familes but if we are lucky we can have supporting familes like these characters.
This book is perfect, girl next door falls in love with tatted up gang member in small town USA. Prolly not going to be very well looked at by the girls family right? Well you dont know the Carters if you think so. This family loves everyone as long as you show you have a heart that is worth it.
Tricia has been unlucky in love. This we knew but we never knew the WHY's of her relationship with her long time boyfriend Trent. Once we figured it out...wow and ouch were what I said. Leon aka King is a gang member who is hiding out . He has some serious family trouble as in immediate family and gang family. He is not about the accept any hands out. Hand outs in the gang world show weakness and he is not weak. However, handout in this small town show comapssion and just neighborly concern.
Tricia and Leon have instant attraction but they seem to trip up over the differences in how they have grown up. Leon in the hard streets of Chicago while Tricia in small town USA. He pushes and she runs. He appologized and she forgives but each is still holding back. He fears she can do better and she fears he is just like her Ex....meaning she isnt good enought.
I really enjoyed the plot and the travel of these charaters. I had times I wanted to smack him in the head and others where I was shacking my head at her. If you love the series then you need to read the conclusion to the series.
August 30, 2020
There are times in your life when the life that you planned seems to be unobtainable. With a reality that was so far from the future that she dreamed; Tricia Carter found herself starting life anew. No one wants to give up on their marriage, but Tricia knew that she could no longer continue on the path that her marriage had taken. New beginnings are scary, but Tricia looked at this new reality with complete joy.
Leon Ramirez is definitely not a ‘local’, but the life that this rugged mechanics helper now lead is better than the one left behind. Raising his two sisters, Leon knows that he isn’t perfect. However, Leon is doing all that he can to make sure their education continues in spite of his parent’s deportation to Mexico. Determined to stay under the radar, Leon works himself to death making sure that his sister’s make the most of the situation they have been given.
When Tricia finds herself in need of communicating with one of her student’s guardians, she finds herself face to face with the next-door neighbor. Leon is everything that Tricia is not. The two are complete opposites but manage to find themselves attracted to one another non the less. Determined to keep his personal life separate from the girls, Leon can’t help but notice the lines are beginning to blur on all facets of his life. Leon quickly discovers that all is not as it should be for his sisters and Tricia. Now the two must find a way to make their personal and professional relationships coincide in harmony.
Read With Your Heart was previously released as Sight Words. Author L.B. Dunbar has edited the book to include more depth to the story. While I typically find myself enamored by everything that Dunbar writes, this book didn’t have that pull that I have come to expect from the author. Don’t get me wrong, Read With Your Heart is ‘good’. It just didn’t grab me by the heartstrings like I have typically come to expect from Dunbar. Tricia and Leon do offer a glimpse into picking up your life when it is tattered and torn. It just didn’t keep me as entertained as I would have liked.
Leon Ramirez is definitely not a ‘local’, but the life that this rugged mechanics helper now lead is better than the one left behind. Raising his two sisters, Leon knows that he isn’t perfect. However, Leon is doing all that he can to make sure their education continues in spite of his parent’s deportation to Mexico. Determined to stay under the radar, Leon works himself to death making sure that his sister’s make the most of the situation they have been given.
When Tricia finds herself in need of communicating with one of her student’s guardians, she finds herself face to face with the next-door neighbor. Leon is everything that Tricia is not. The two are complete opposites but manage to find themselves attracted to one another non the less. Determined to keep his personal life separate from the girls, Leon can’t help but notice the lines are beginning to blur on all facets of his life. Leon quickly discovers that all is not as it should be for his sisters and Tricia. Now the two must find a way to make their personal and professional relationships coincide in harmony.
Read With Your Heart was previously released as Sight Words. Author L.B. Dunbar has edited the book to include more depth to the story. While I typically find myself enamored by everything that Dunbar writes, this book didn’t have that pull that I have come to expect from the author. Don’t get me wrong, Read With Your Heart is ‘good’. It just didn’t grab me by the heartstrings like I have typically come to expect from Dunbar. Tricia and Leon do offer a glimpse into picking up your life when it is tattered and torn. It just didn’t keep me as entertained as I would have liked.
December 14, 2015
This is the fifth and last book of the Sensations Collection by L.B. Dunbar. Each book’s theme is one of the five senses. The story is centered on two families in a small town.
Tricia is the only one of her family who has not been paired off, as she just broke up with her abusive boyfriend who everyone loved. She thinks she’ll never have what her siblings has, a perfect match, someone who will love her for who she is. Enters Leo, the son of illegal immigrants. Coming from Chicago, he moves into the village and has to take care of his little sisters until his parents come to get them. He wants nothing more than to protect his family and move back as soon as possible. His life wasn’t the safest, as he always had to be on guard, being a gang member. When the two meet, they aren’t able to resist temptation even if they know a relationship could go nowhere.
It was quite good and the main characters were likable. This is the first story I’ve read that centers on something concerning illegal immigrants. I love how the author added diversity in it. The Carter and the Scott family are definitely some people I would like to meet. They seem like they are a comfortable bunch to be around.
The situation felt somewhat realistic and I clearly could picture the characters in my head. I understood their feelings and even though I didn’t agree with some of their decisions, it didn’t annoy me like some other books.
It’s the first story I’ve read by the author. It can be read as a standalone, but it will be a little spoilery for some events in the other books in the series. I would definitely recommend to read the these books first, because you would have a better understanding of the context and all other little details, but it’s not absolutely necessary. I went into it blind and I still appreciated it.
I also feel that I would have enjoyed the story more if I had read the previous books. I will definitely be getting to them one day!
Tricia is the only one of her family who has not been paired off, as she just broke up with her abusive boyfriend who everyone loved. She thinks she’ll never have what her siblings has, a perfect match, someone who will love her for who she is. Enters Leo, the son of illegal immigrants. Coming from Chicago, he moves into the village and has to take care of his little sisters until his parents come to get them. He wants nothing more than to protect his family and move back as soon as possible. His life wasn’t the safest, as he always had to be on guard, being a gang member. When the two meet, they aren’t able to resist temptation even if they know a relationship could go nowhere.
It was quite good and the main characters were likable. This is the first story I’ve read that centers on something concerning illegal immigrants. I love how the author added diversity in it. The Carter and the Scott family are definitely some people I would like to meet. They seem like they are a comfortable bunch to be around.
The situation felt somewhat realistic and I clearly could picture the characters in my head. I understood their feelings and even though I didn’t agree with some of their decisions, it didn’t annoy me like some other books.
It’s the first story I’ve read by the author. It can be read as a standalone, but it will be a little spoilery for some events in the other books in the series. I would definitely recommend to read the these books first, because you would have a better understanding of the context and all other little details, but it’s not absolutely necessary. I went into it blind and I still appreciated it.
I also feel that I would have enjoyed the story more if I had read the previous books. I will definitely be getting to them one day!
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