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Blackbird
My anchor. My True North. My Salvation.
I knew his job in the military could call him away at any time, but I never expected he would leave without saying goodbye or that he would take a piece of me with him.
He said he would always find his way back to me.
It’s been two years.
I’m still waiting for him.
My memories from our two weeks in paradise are as vivid as they were when we created them. The tattoo on my wrist a constant reminder.
Today, when I open the door to the waiting room at the clinic and see him sitting there, I feel the pieces of my world coming together.
He’s finally here. He found his way back to me. But if that’s the case why does he look like I’m the last person in the world he wants to see?
He said I was his home. His true North. So, why is he running away?
I knew his job in the military could call him away at any time, but I never expected he would leave without saying goodbye or that he would take a piece of me with him.
He said he would always find his way back to me.
It’s been two years.
I’m still waiting for him.
My memories from our two weeks in paradise are as vivid as they were when we created them. The tattoo on my wrist a constant reminder.
Today, when I open the door to the waiting room at the clinic and see him sitting there, I feel the pieces of my world coming together.
He’s finally here. He found his way back to me. But if that’s the case why does he look like I’m the last person in the world he wants to see?
He said I was his home. His true North. So, why is he running away?
Unknown Binding
Published February 1, 2019
83 people are currently reading
210 people want to read
About the author
Lisa Shelby
20 books785 followersLisa Shelby is a USA Today bestselling contemporary romance author, a self-proclaimed love geek, and cake-pop addict. Born and raised in the Pacific Northwest, this is still where Lisa calls home with her husband and their dogs. When she isn’t writing her next happily ever after, you can find Lisa with her husband traveling, listening to live music, and living their new empty nest lifestyle while pretending they aren't wishing their son would call or drop by every day.
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http://bit.ly/2rXjJ7S
VISIT MY AMAZON AUTHOR PAGE!
http://amzn.to/2mffkd0
VISIT ME ON FACEBOOK!
https://www.facebook.com/lisashelbybo...
VISIT ME ON INSTAGRAM!
https://www.instagram.com/lisashelbyb...
Read We Are Tonight FREE when you sign up for my newsletter! Click here to sign up and read for FREE! https://BookHip.com/MZTJVhttp://bit.l...
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 57 reviews
February 1, 2019
*I voluntarily read and reviewed an ARC of this book*
5 “Game Changer” Stars
Second chance romances are my jam. There’s just something about them that call to me. The way that it’s not easy for the Hero and heroine, that they can’t just pretend something major didn’t happen in their past. How they have to fight and see if it’s even worth giving each other another chance. And you know if it feels realistic, then they’re done right.
Blackbird gave me countless feelings. From the first chapter I was hooked. I had a smile on my face, but then I was hit with a punch to my heart. My breath was shortened and I knew I was in for one hell of a ride.
Huck and Harper meet while they’re both on a short getaway. When they first lay eyes on each other the attraction is there. Sparks fly and without knowing, they’re both in for a tumultuous ride they did not see coming, let alone expect. Their time together is short lived, so they’re making the best of the time they do have together before they both have to leave, or until Huck is called away because of his job. It’s evident that what they have isn’t some fling, the feelings they have for each other are strong and real. And knowing that, they know that no matter what happens they’ll always find their way back to each other.
Years pass and their reunion isn’t what Harper thought it would be. Huck is a changed man than the one Harper spent weeks with in Bali. Harper is heartbroken, but wants to help Huck in any way she can. Even though he keeps pushing her away, she’s not going to give up.
Huck is a stubborn man. But still, underneath that hard exterior lies a man that can’t help but still feel everything for Harper. He has to overcome his inner demons, but with Harper by his side, his light and true north, he knows it’ll all be okay. Huck and Harper’s reunion and moments together gave me all the feels. I couldn’t stop swooning over Huck, he definitely became one of my most favorite Hero’s.
Blackbird gave me all the emotions I expect from a second chance romance. With a Hero and heroine that fought tooth and nail for their happy ending. It wasn't easy, but in the end it was so worth it. Definitely recommend.
5 “Game Changer” Stars
Second chance romances are my jam. There’s just something about them that call to me. The way that it’s not easy for the Hero and heroine, that they can’t just pretend something major didn’t happen in their past. How they have to fight and see if it’s even worth giving each other another chance. And you know if it feels realistic, then they’re done right.
Blackbird gave me countless feelings. From the first chapter I was hooked. I had a smile on my face, but then I was hit with a punch to my heart. My breath was shortened and I knew I was in for one hell of a ride.
Huck and Harper meet while they’re both on a short getaway. When they first lay eyes on each other the attraction is there. Sparks fly and without knowing, they’re both in for a tumultuous ride they did not see coming, let alone expect. Their time together is short lived, so they’re making the best of the time they do have together before they both have to leave, or until Huck is called away because of his job. It’s evident that what they have isn’t some fling, the feelings they have for each other are strong and real. And knowing that, they know that no matter what happens they’ll always find their way back to each other.
Years pass and their reunion isn’t what Harper thought it would be. Huck is a changed man than the one Harper spent weeks with in Bali. Harper is heartbroken, but wants to help Huck in any way she can. Even though he keeps pushing her away, she’s not going to give up.
Huck is a stubborn man. But still, underneath that hard exterior lies a man that can’t help but still feel everything for Harper. He has to overcome his inner demons, but with Harper by his side, his light and true north, he knows it’ll all be okay. Huck and Harper’s reunion and moments together gave me all the feels. I couldn’t stop swooning over Huck, he definitely became one of my most favorite Hero’s.
Blackbird gave me all the emotions I expect from a second chance romance. With a Hero and heroine that fought tooth and nail for their happy ending. It wasn't easy, but in the end it was so worth it. Definitely recommend.
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November 30, 2020Nope.
I have a thing about writers who pimp current titles of this genre in their own stories. It's one thing to mention a classic penned by a true author - like Hemingway, for instance. But the current crop contributing to the romance genre aren't authors. A good percentage of them are barely literate and don't really even warrant the title of writer, let alone author.
But the point is, don't. Just don't. It's just really tacky to shill your friends or colleagues work in your own.
Also, I read the aforementioned book and remember wishing I hadn't. To say I wasn't impressed is an understatement.
Moving on.
I know that there are loads of readers who love dual POV. Nevertheless, this book is a prime example the of the main reason (of several) I loathe dual POV with a passion. You. Cannot. Write. the male thought process or voice the same as the female's. You can't attribute the characteristics familiar to most females to males. Saying 'fuck' every other sentence and fixating on the hero's c*ck like it's a secondary character are classic examples of a female writing what she thinks is a male perspective.
But men don't think like that. They don't make detailed, flowery descriptions of things like appearance or emotion. Their thought processes and powers of observation are far more simple and straightforward than those of women. A woman will make a detailed description down to the specific hue of things like eye colour or the shade and fit of a dress - for example, how her bright cerulean blue eyes sparkled or how her deep crimson dress hugged her curves.
No 🙄.
A man will offhandedly observe that her eyes were blue and her dress was red, if he thinks about it at all.
The book starts with the hero's POV and from the first paragraph it was clear that a woman was writing his perspective based on how SHE believes they think rather than doing any sort of research to aid actually getting it right.
Readers today need to raise their standards, which have gradually bottomed out since the advent of indie/self-pub. Writers today just need to do better. Just because you THINK you can write doesn't mean you really can. If you can write but lack technical skill, publishing a book riddled with poor grammar and execution errors is a sure way to insult readers. If you're going to write, do your research and know your shit. Don't be lazy. People pay for your work and many will be more than happy to call you out if you blag a load of bullshite.
I have no patience for books that fail to engage me by the halfway mark. If it's not gotten better by then, it won't. There was no distinction between the voices of Harper or Huck, which means Huck was too girly for my taste in a hero. If their names hadn't been on each chapter page I wouldn't have known whose perspective I was getting. Huck was also a bit of a coward, which I don't like in a hero.
YMMV.
I have a thing about writers who pimp current titles of this genre in their own stories. It's one thing to mention a classic penned by a true author - like Hemingway, for instance. But the current crop contributing to the romance genre aren't authors. A good percentage of them are barely literate and don't really even warrant the title of writer, let alone author.
But the point is, don't. Just don't. It's just really tacky to shill your friends or colleagues work in your own.
Also, I read the aforementioned book and remember wishing I hadn't. To say I wasn't impressed is an understatement.
Moving on.
I know that there are loads of readers who love dual POV. Nevertheless, this book is a prime example the of the main reason (of several) I loathe dual POV with a passion. You. Cannot. Write. the male thought process or voice the same as the female's. You can't attribute the characteristics familiar to most females to males. Saying 'fuck' every other sentence and fixating on the hero's c*ck like it's a secondary character are classic examples of a female writing what she thinks is a male perspective.
But men don't think like that. They don't make detailed, flowery descriptions of things like appearance or emotion. Their thought processes and powers of observation are far more simple and straightforward than those of women. A woman will make a detailed description down to the specific hue of things like eye colour or the shade and fit of a dress - for example, how her bright cerulean blue eyes sparkled or how her deep crimson dress hugged her curves.
No 🙄.
A man will offhandedly observe that her eyes were blue and her dress was red, if he thinks about it at all.
The book starts with the hero's POV and from the first paragraph it was clear that a woman was writing his perspective based on how SHE believes they think rather than doing any sort of research to aid actually getting it right.
Readers today need to raise their standards, which have gradually bottomed out since the advent of indie/self-pub. Writers today just need to do better. Just because you THINK you can write doesn't mean you really can. If you can write but lack technical skill, publishing a book riddled with poor grammar and execution errors is a sure way to insult readers. If you're going to write, do your research and know your shit. Don't be lazy. People pay for your work and many will be more than happy to call you out if you blag a load of bullshite.
I have no patience for books that fail to engage me by the halfway mark. If it's not gotten better by then, it won't. There was no distinction between the voices of Harper or Huck, which means Huck was too girly for my taste in a hero. If their names hadn't been on each chapter page I wouldn't have known whose perspective I was getting. Huck was also a bit of a coward, which I don't like in a hero.
YMMV.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 24, 2021
😍 Huck 😍.... I sure hope Harper knows how lucky she is! I thoroughly enjoyed my time with them! This story is so sweet with a huge dose of heartbreak in more than one form. Harper is just the most awesomely understanding woman! And Huck is your typical prideful tough guy that needs to get over himself if he wants to get back the love of his life. The work these 2 put into making a relationship work is so inspiring! It shows that love isn't always easy and requires a lot of work and compromise and understanding on both sides! 💙 I love them! Their dedication to each other, even when they didn't think they would even be together again, was so sweet. Blackbird is absolutely worth all 5 🌟. One-click this book today! Sweet and sexy with just a medium amount of drama to make it interesting!
May 27, 2020
Oh goodness Huck and Harper!!!
From the beginning, their story sucks you in! I could NOT put it down! Huck and Harper meet while on sort of vacay, they fall head over heels in LOVE with each other. Even though their time is cut short, they know deep in their hearts, they are destined and will always find a way back to each other. years pass, and he's back but is a changed man. Harper is utterly heartbroken, but wants to help him regardless.
Their relationship is a true testament of real, storybook true love. Huck has easily fallen into my list of favorite book boyfriends. He faces so many challenges, but he ultimately knows if she's in his life, he can overcome anything. He has fallen down this miserable existence without her love, her light, his true north, his everything and deeply needs her. Their reunion, their moments together, sighhhh ohmygoodness, like swooooonnnn....
Seriously if you haven't read Lisa's books, you're totally missing out. Her writing gets better and better everytime I read. I loved this book so much!!!! It had some twists and turns, I was shocked!!! Definitely worth the read!!!!
From the beginning, their story sucks you in! I could NOT put it down! Huck and Harper meet while on sort of vacay, they fall head over heels in LOVE with each other. Even though their time is cut short, they know deep in their hearts, they are destined and will always find a way back to each other. years pass, and he's back but is a changed man. Harper is utterly heartbroken, but wants to help him regardless.
Their relationship is a true testament of real, storybook true love. Huck has easily fallen into my list of favorite book boyfriends. He faces so many challenges, but he ultimately knows if she's in his life, he can overcome anything. He has fallen down this miserable existence without her love, her light, his true north, his everything and deeply needs her. Their reunion, their moments together, sighhhh ohmygoodness, like swooooonnnn....
Seriously if you haven't read Lisa's books, you're totally missing out. Her writing gets better and better everytime I read. I loved this book so much!!!! It had some twists and turns, I was shocked!!! Definitely worth the read!!!!
January 28, 2019
“I knew you were a game changer the moment I met you.”
When Delta Force Specialist Huck catches a glimpse of Harper, he knows she’s the one. Their short time together is spent in a tropical paradise, but one that comes to an abrupt halt when Huck is called away on a mission.
Harper was warned that Huck may have to leave at a minutes notice, but when she wakes to him gone, it’s still a shock. But he promised to always find her…he promised…
When Huck’s mission goes FUBAR, he feels beyond broken and no longer worthy of Harper’s love. But fate steps in, and leads these soulmates back to each other…if only Huck had kept his promise…
Lisa Shelby has written a second chance romance not to be missed. I made the mistake of starting it before I went to bed and one more chaptered myself up till The End in the wee hours of the morning. I loved it that much! Blackbird is beautifully written and highly recommended!
*Received ARC for honest review*
When Delta Force Specialist Huck catches a glimpse of Harper, he knows she’s the one. Their short time together is spent in a tropical paradise, but one that comes to an abrupt halt when Huck is called away on a mission.
Harper was warned that Huck may have to leave at a minutes notice, but when she wakes to him gone, it’s still a shock. But he promised to always find her…he promised…
When Huck’s mission goes FUBAR, he feels beyond broken and no longer worthy of Harper’s love. But fate steps in, and leads these soulmates back to each other…if only Huck had kept his promise…
Lisa Shelby has written a second chance romance not to be missed. I made the mistake of starting it before I went to bed and one more chaptered myself up till The End in the wee hours of the morning. I loved it that much! Blackbird is beautifully written and highly recommended!
*Received ARC for honest review*
June 22, 2020
Full length stand-alone told in dual POV with HEA. This is a second chance romance with some chapters alternating from present time to the past (2 yrs. ago). I loved that there was no cheating and no moving on for either Huck or Harper in the two years they were apart. They both knew they were it for each other, life just threw them a detour. Their story was heart wrenching at times, but beautifully told. I loved the epilogue!!
January 31, 2019
A beautifully dramatic romance. This story is about two fated lovers who lose their dream of being together. It's falling hard and breaking up harder, finding perfection only to have it tarnished and twisted by the cruelty of life.
Huck and Harper fall in love in Bali, and it's sweet, fun, hot and momentuous. Mixing past and present, the author cleverly unravels how this couple lost their way.
I thought it was spectacular the way it's explained about Huck's current state of misery and the origin of their separation. Military life pops up in a few flashes that add immense drama to the story. All his despair at his loss and guilt is painfully demonstrated. I could feel his sorrow, and Harper's too of having lost the love of her life so unfairly.
Fate reunites them again and I really liked the serendipity of it as well as how they are connected now becasue of one fatal instance in the past. Believing in their happy ending requires a leap of faith, but it's worth it.
There's tragedy pulsing between them, a lot of undercurrent passion too. I didn't care much for Harper's romantic situation in the present, but it looked like another hurdle to add to a heavy list of obstacles to their second chance. Besides, nothing is what it seems and every chapter is another layer to be lifted in wonder.
Little by little, love rebuilds the broken pieces, and it is beautiful to read. I was really surprised when a fresh batch of tragedy rattles this suffering couple once more before they can claim their hard-earned, very emotional happiness. Grief, horror and a life-altering turn of events fill the last part of this novel, and it feels amazing to witness. This couple's true love emerges once more above the ultimate danger. It is a very worthy romance.
Huck and Harper fall in love in Bali, and it's sweet, fun, hot and momentuous. Mixing past and present, the author cleverly unravels how this couple lost their way.
I thought it was spectacular the way it's explained about Huck's current state of misery and the origin of their separation. Military life pops up in a few flashes that add immense drama to the story. All his despair at his loss and guilt is painfully demonstrated. I could feel his sorrow, and Harper's too of having lost the love of her life so unfairly.
Fate reunites them again and I really liked the serendipity of it as well as how they are connected now becasue of one fatal instance in the past. Believing in their happy ending requires a leap of faith, but it's worth it.
There's tragedy pulsing between them, a lot of undercurrent passion too. I didn't care much for Harper's romantic situation in the present, but it looked like another hurdle to add to a heavy list of obstacles to their second chance. Besides, nothing is what it seems and every chapter is another layer to be lifted in wonder.
Little by little, love rebuilds the broken pieces, and it is beautiful to read. I was really surprised when a fresh batch of tragedy rattles this suffering couple once more before they can claim their hard-earned, very emotional happiness. Grief, horror and a life-altering turn of events fill the last part of this novel, and it feels amazing to witness. This couple's true love emerges once more above the ultimate danger. It is a very worthy romance.
January 30, 2019
Just in awe...
Lisa Shelby, you have truly outdone yourself! Blackbird was everything and then some. It was an all consuming, endearing and emotional experience. I just can’t describe enough the emotions I felt while reading the book. It was like I was right there experiencing everything with them. The characters are so well rounded and “real” that you just can’t help but love them all. And girl, way to throw in some suspense and action. I wasn’t sure my heart was going to survive.
From page one I fell in love with Huck and his charismatic way and my heart ached for him throughout the first half of the book. Harper was also so lovable and cute. I just couldn’t get enough of either one of them even when they were both being hard headed.
Blackbird has become one of my top reads thus far in 2019. It will grab your attention from the beginning and keep you turning the pages long after you should be asleep in bed. This book consumed me and I was so mad when real life would take me away from it. The storyline is perfect. Without getting into details (as to not ruin it for you) Huck and Harper’s journey at finding each other again is not only heartwarming but will leave you with such a happy heart at the end.
Lisa Shelby, you have truly outdone yourself! Blackbird was everything and then some. It was an all consuming, endearing and emotional experience. I just can’t describe enough the emotions I felt while reading the book. It was like I was right there experiencing everything with them. The characters are so well rounded and “real” that you just can’t help but love them all. And girl, way to throw in some suspense and action. I wasn’t sure my heart was going to survive.
From page one I fell in love with Huck and his charismatic way and my heart ached for him throughout the first half of the book. Harper was also so lovable and cute. I just couldn’t get enough of either one of them even when they were both being hard headed.
Blackbird has become one of my top reads thus far in 2019. It will grab your attention from the beginning and keep you turning the pages long after you should be asleep in bed. This book consumed me and I was so mad when real life would take me away from it. The storyline is perfect. Without getting into details (as to not ruin it for you) Huck and Harper’s journey at finding each other again is not only heartwarming but will leave you with such a happy heart at the end.
February 3, 2019
Huck Finnegan met Harper Keaton on vacation, it was love at first sight. They fell in love fast and hard. He promised to call her, they vowed to see what the future held for them.
Fast forward two years, and Harper feels abandoned by Huck as she has not heard a word from him in all that time; she just wants to know why. Why didn’t he call like he promised? Should she move on or should she continue to wait. She knew he had a job he couldn’t talk about, she just didn’t know what he did.
She gets a new patient at her clinic, and once she reads the patient’s file, she now knows where Huck has been for the last two years and has a much better understanding of why he hasn’t contacted her, but struggles with the idea of still loving someone who didn’t reach out to her, the woman he professed to love, in his moment of need.
There is a big twist that I didn’t see coming, and let me tell you, Lisa grabbed my attention right away with it, and kept me drawn in straight through to the end. Blackbird is the story of lost love found. It’s proof that we shouldn’t give up on those we love and those who love us, no matter why we think it’s a good idea.
Fast forward two years, and Harper feels abandoned by Huck as she has not heard a word from him in all that time; she just wants to know why. Why didn’t he call like he promised? Should she move on or should she continue to wait. She knew he had a job he couldn’t talk about, she just didn’t know what he did.
She gets a new patient at her clinic, and once she reads the patient’s file, she now knows where Huck has been for the last two years and has a much better understanding of why he hasn’t contacted her, but struggles with the idea of still loving someone who didn’t reach out to her, the woman he professed to love, in his moment of need.
There is a big twist that I didn’t see coming, and let me tell you, Lisa grabbed my attention right away with it, and kept me drawn in straight through to the end. Blackbird is the story of lost love found. It’s proof that we shouldn’t give up on those we love and those who love us, no matter why we think it’s a good idea.
January 24, 2019
A that will have you entranced from beginning to end! That first chapter had me smiling one minute and my heart dropping in the next! I found myself feeling so many emotions throughout this book and from one chapter to the next I didn’t know what to expect! I loved seeing glimpses of the past and how they related to the characters present lives! The way the story is written I didn’t feel confused and everything flowed naturally!
Huck knew from the second he heard Harp that she was his “game changer” he just had to show her he was right! When things picked up with them and declarations were made, real life came calling and tragedy kept Huck from fulfilling his promises! Fate had other plans for these two and when thrown back together it’s up to Huck to decide if he has what it takes to give Harp the world he promised!!
So many twists and turns that I didn’t expect! I absolutely loved this story and their journey was seriously gut wrenching but so beautiful and full of hope! The love that Huck has inside of him for his “freckles” was just awe inspiring!
Huck knew from the second he heard Harp that she was his “game changer” he just had to show her he was right! When things picked up with them and declarations were made, real life came calling and tragedy kept Huck from fulfilling his promises! Fate had other plans for these two and when thrown back together it’s up to Huck to decide if he has what it takes to give Harp the world he promised!!
So many twists and turns that I didn’t expect! I absolutely loved this story and their journey was seriously gut wrenching but so beautiful and full of hope! The love that Huck has inside of him for his “freckles” was just awe inspiring!
February 1, 2019
Lisa Shelby has wowed me yet again with this amazingly sweet, heartwarming story full of every single emotion you could imagine. Even now days later I am having trouble putting into words how absolutely phenomenal this story is. I was sucked in straight from the start and it kept me captivated until the very last word.
Huck and Harper have so much chemistry that I worried my kindle would start smoking. Huck had me swooning into a puddle of goo from the very first meeting. His sweet words and confidence, I fell head over heals for this sweet, sexy, damaged man.
Harper's sweet forgiving heart endeared me to her immediately and she is the kind of girl that I could be great friends with.
Shelby's writing just keeps getting better with each new release. I can't wait to see what she brings us next. I am and forever will be a #LOVEGEEK!
Huck and Harper have so much chemistry that I worried my kindle would start smoking. Huck had me swooning into a puddle of goo from the very first meeting. His sweet words and confidence, I fell head over heals for this sweet, sexy, damaged man.
Harper's sweet forgiving heart endeared me to her immediately and she is the kind of girl that I could be great friends with.
Shelby's writing just keeps getting better with each new release. I can't wait to see what she brings us next. I am and forever will be a #LOVEGEEK!
February 1, 2019
This book killed me , it is heartwarming, heart breaking, twists you never saw coming and a love that even though it has been broken, and bruised it is still there it just needs some TLC to get it to where the hea is there for them.
I am not giving away this book because honestly it is so worth the read, I actually reread it because I loved it that much
Huck and Harper deserve their story to be read and enjoyed .
I am not giving away this book because honestly it is so worth the read, I actually reread it because I loved it that much
Huck and Harper deserve their story to be read and enjoyed .
February 19, 2019
AMAZING! Talk about an emotional roller coaster. This heartfelt story will melt the heart. Invest in plenty of tissues for the emotional demands of this book. Huck thinks he is broken beyond repair. Harper doesn't understand what happened. They both know they are each others true north and will find each other. The chemistry between them is so strong and the love will never fail them. The characters and story are so well written you will be drawn in. I liked the twist and surprise at the end. I fell in love with both these characters. I highly recommend.
January 28, 2019
Her books just keep getting better and better. This book will have you smiling and happy one moment and extremely sad the next. There is so much that can be said about this book, but I don’t want to give away any of the plot…as I think it is way better if you go in without knowing much. This is definitely a must read for 2019.
January 25, 2019
This is my favorite Lisa Shelby book yet! I keep saying that but her books just keep besting themselves!
I LOVE Huck and Harper!! And it kicked off with a bit of a shock - but it sucks you in immediately!! I'm not the type to spoil the book in a review but this book has it all - swoony moments, nail-biting moments, OMFG moments - it's got it all. :)
I LOVE Huck and Harper!! And it kicked off with a bit of a shock - but it sucks you in immediately!! I'm not the type to spoil the book in a review but this book has it all - swoony moments, nail-biting moments, OMFG moments - it's got it all. :)
January 31, 2019
Lisa’s writing just keeps getting better! Harper and Huck had me hooked from the beginning! I could have read this in one sitting. Lisa always manages to get the perfect mix of swoony moments and the suspense a good story needs.
February 1, 2019
Blackbird by Lisa Shelby was absolutely amazing! I loved this wonderful rollercoaster of emotions. Huck and Harper’s love story was a whirlwind of emotions. I love books that can bring on tears. I definitely recommend this story as a must read!
June 21, 2022
Bumped this to two stars. I marinated in my thoughts after finishing this book.
It was okay. Both MCs too emotional for me. It was a good premise but both characters have too much internalization.
I get it. Ya'll still love each other. It was a quick read and I appreciate that.
It was okay. Both MCs too emotional for me. It was a good premise but both characters have too much internalization.
I get it. Ya'll still love each other. It was a quick read and I appreciate that.
July 7, 2020
4.5 Stars. This story is told in the present and past. It’s a story that makes you believe in the power of love, of second chances, and of hope. It also brought tears to my eyes a few times.
Huck and Harper’s love affair on a beach in Bali seems too good to be true. Their fairytale comes to a quick and abrupt end. Two years and much misery, their paths cross again. They must determine if their love is strong enough for forgiveness and new beginnings. They have a lot to overcome, and just when they seem to have all, tragedy strikes again.
Huck and Harper’s love affair on a beach in Bali seems too good to be true. Their fairytale comes to a quick and abrupt end. Two years and much misery, their paths cross again. They must determine if their love is strong enough for forgiveness and new beginnings. They have a lot to overcome, and just when they seem to have all, tragedy strikes again.
February 21, 2019
10 Star Read
If I could rate this mind blowing I so would. Lisa Shelby never seems to amaze me. This book dug into the depths and crevices of my soul. Huck is my favorite Book boyfriend. He was beyond genuine, loyal and romantic. It's difficult to read about soldiers and their demons. Most have a harder time once returning home from the field. These men and women deserve so much more than what we give them credit for not to mention the lack of care some don't receive. Harper and Huck couldn't have broken my heart any more or I'm sure they could. This book was truly a hot to read and I am surprised that I am still breathing. This book had me crying like a baby at Hucks confession. I think we tend to forget that a man's pride can be so important to him. And if he loses that he becomes lost. Soldier or not. This beautiful love story will leave you breathless and have you aching. Thank you Lisa Shelby and her husband for being BlackBird into my heart, my home and my soul!!!!
If I could rate this mind blowing I so would. Lisa Shelby never seems to amaze me. This book dug into the depths and crevices of my soul. Huck is my favorite Book boyfriend. He was beyond genuine, loyal and romantic. It's difficult to read about soldiers and their demons. Most have a harder time once returning home from the field. These men and women deserve so much more than what we give them credit for not to mention the lack of care some don't receive. Harper and Huck couldn't have broken my heart any more or I'm sure they could. This book was truly a hot to read and I am surprised that I am still breathing. This book had me crying like a baby at Hucks confession. I think we tend to forget that a man's pride can be so important to him. And if he loses that he becomes lost. Soldier or not. This beautiful love story will leave you breathless and have you aching. Thank you Lisa Shelby and her husband for being BlackBird into my heart, my home and my soul!!!!
January 30, 2019
Huck and Harper took me on an emotional roller-coaster. From their first meeting, where Huck is captivated by Harper’s laugh, to their world wind romance followed by a separation. When these two cross paths again, Huck is a broken man and is lost. Harper is stunned to see him again after 2 years and feels like she is imagining him. This starts the journey to find that love that burned so hot in such a short time while allowing Huck to realize he isn’t broken, just changed. I was captivated by this couple from the moment they met. The mystery of Huck’s job that he wouldn’t tell Harper along with his disappearance. The heartbreak when I learned what he had endured to the bright hope that seeing Harper again delivers. A journey I am so happy I took and a couple that will stay with me. I voluntarily read an ARC of this book and this is my honest review.
February 14, 2019
<3
What an incredibly sweet yet heartbreaking story.
It’s well written, original and multi dimensional.
And can I just say how much I love that little piece of music that’s added to the story.
In fact, the books title was what originally drew me to the book.
What an incredibly sweet yet heartbreaking story.
It’s well written, original and multi dimensional.
And can I just say how much I love that little piece of music that’s added to the story.
In fact, the books title was what originally drew me to the book.
June 5, 2023
This story is a second chance romance masterpiece that will keep you on the edge of your seat. Lisa's ability to build her characters and setting, that will make you fall in love, is awesome!
July 1, 2020
THERE IS SUCH A THING AS ROMANCE THAT’S TOO SWEET AND PERFECT
“My bike and my rum are the only things getting me through”
Actually, I could use some of that rum right about now. I’m at a point where I’ve reached maximum saturation of books not worth the read. Good starts that sputter to an underwhelming finish. No disrespect to the author – who is new to me – but this book was a sweet romance enhanced by a swoony H, but without any meaningful conflict, and tried to shake things up in the last few pages by introducing an abusive domestic situation and murder/kidnapping involving side characters at the finish. Say what? I was gripped by the start of an island vacay romance between a Special Forces Delta soldier on leave from his elite unit when he meets the woman of his dreams. Huck falls hard for spunky Harper and she’s “it” for him. Their love is a constant. I love a good love story, but it was all sweetness and light and smoky sex. Not even any OW/OM drama. Where can the story go? They spend a couple idyllic weeks in paradise before he’s called away on special assignment. Then tragedy strikes, and they’re separated for 2 years before coming face-to-face for an awkward reunion.
Huck’s poetic nature, funny side, confidence and easy charm were endearing. He’s a singer and guitar player with plenty of soul and depth of character, on and off the battlefield. What happens is very tragic, but not insurmountable and the story takes a bit of a Beauty & the Beast turn. If this was a coloring book, the dots would be all laid out for us with no surprises, other than there were no surprises. Their shared special bits in the setup weren’t all that emotionally relevant in the rest of the story: the meaningful blackbird tattoo on his arm and the Beatles’ song it represents; their shared tattoos of a compass on his heart and her wrist that mean they are each other’s true north and will always find their way back to each other, no matter what. All were mentioned, but no crescendo moments.
What happens to Huck, his processing of it,and the resulting isolation that keeps him from seeking out Harper and resuming their love story was wasted time for the couple. Thankfully, we’re not dragged through the separation phase. Past and present chapters happen before the incident when they first meet, and after the incident when they finally meet again. I was shocked by the passive way the important issues were tackled so superficially. Being separated tore them apart emotionally, but they never actually discuss any of what happened to Huck once reunited. He mostly brushes off, or past, any suggestions for his recovery/rehab. In a convenient contrivance, Harper just happens to be an expert in what Huck needs, but that’s glossed over too, as well as him not seeking the therapy and help he needs. They simply pick up their love story where it left off with smiles and sex, and all the drama is left on the floor, virtually unprocessed and forgotten. It was beyond inexplicable that they end up in the same town/city for two years without running into each other.
“Honestly?” and “Always.” is their commitment to truth, but they don’t actually follow it when it really counts. Huck says: “You must hurt in order to know, fall in order to grow, lose in order to gain because life’s greatest lessons are learned through pain”, yet there wasn’t enough of it to be believable or keep me invested. Huck’s disability never seemed to be an obstacle in ways it should have been, and much of his ability to compensate didn’t ring true. Not saying the nature of the the disability, but he sure overcame the handicap of it without any real work or assists. And the last thing he should have been doing is driving. A possible medical device was suggested and never mentioned again, which I thought would contribute to the HEA, but nope.
The sappy part of the love story was great in a small dose, but not as the entire story. A little section of flirtatious dialogue when they first met is lame (my first letdown). And there were early cheesy lines like “We are going to burn so hot, we won’t be able to put each other out”. It was just too saccharine. Without some real conflict for what they went through, the love story lost any real impact. All the emotional moments were reserved for Huck’s memories of the incident and his soldier buddies. He was seemingly “cured” of all his issues, anger, and depression just by reuniting with Harper. Some good moments, but not a well-developed storyline. So much more could have been done with Huck that would remind me of Brittainy Cherry or Mia Sheridan.
“Don’t worry Harper. I’ll always find you.”
“Harper. My light. My hope.” … at least that was true.
“My bike and my rum are the only things getting me through”
Actually, I could use some of that rum right about now. I’m at a point where I’ve reached maximum saturation of books not worth the read. Good starts that sputter to an underwhelming finish. No disrespect to the author – who is new to me – but this book was a sweet romance enhanced by a swoony H, but without any meaningful conflict, and tried to shake things up in the last few pages by introducing an abusive domestic situation and murder/kidnapping involving side characters at the finish. Say what? I was gripped by the start of an island vacay romance between a Special Forces Delta soldier on leave from his elite unit when he meets the woman of his dreams. Huck falls hard for spunky Harper and she’s “it” for him. Their love is a constant. I love a good love story, but it was all sweetness and light and smoky sex. Not even any OW/OM drama. Where can the story go? They spend a couple idyllic weeks in paradise before he’s called away on special assignment. Then tragedy strikes, and they’re separated for 2 years before coming face-to-face for an awkward reunion.
Huck’s poetic nature, funny side, confidence and easy charm were endearing. He’s a singer and guitar player with plenty of soul and depth of character, on and off the battlefield. What happens is very tragic, but not insurmountable and the story takes a bit of a Beauty & the Beast turn. If this was a coloring book, the dots would be all laid out for us with no surprises, other than there were no surprises. Their shared special bits in the setup weren’t all that emotionally relevant in the rest of the story: the meaningful blackbird tattoo on his arm and the Beatles’ song it represents; their shared tattoos of a compass on his heart and her wrist that mean they are each other’s true north and will always find their way back to each other, no matter what. All were mentioned, but no crescendo moments.
What happens to Huck, his processing of it,and the resulting isolation that keeps him from seeking out Harper and resuming their love story was wasted time for the couple. Thankfully, we’re not dragged through the separation phase. Past and present chapters happen before the incident when they first meet, and after the incident when they finally meet again. I was shocked by the passive way the important issues were tackled so superficially. Being separated tore them apart emotionally, but they never actually discuss any of what happened to Huck once reunited. He mostly brushes off, or past, any suggestions for his recovery/rehab. In a convenient contrivance, Harper just happens to be an expert in what Huck needs, but that’s glossed over too, as well as him not seeking the therapy and help he needs. They simply pick up their love story where it left off with smiles and sex, and all the drama is left on the floor, virtually unprocessed and forgotten. It was beyond inexplicable that they end up in the same town/city for two years without running into each other.
“Honestly?” and “Always.” is their commitment to truth, but they don’t actually follow it when it really counts. Huck says: “You must hurt in order to know, fall in order to grow, lose in order to gain because life’s greatest lessons are learned through pain”, yet there wasn’t enough of it to be believable or keep me invested. Huck’s disability never seemed to be an obstacle in ways it should have been, and much of his ability to compensate didn’t ring true. Not saying the nature of the the disability, but he sure overcame the handicap of it without any real work or assists. And the last thing he should have been doing is driving. A possible medical device was suggested and never mentioned again, which I thought would contribute to the HEA, but nope.
The sappy part of the love story was great in a small dose, but not as the entire story. A little section of flirtatious dialogue when they first met is lame (my first letdown). And there were early cheesy lines like “We are going to burn so hot, we won’t be able to put each other out”. It was just too saccharine. Without some real conflict for what they went through, the love story lost any real impact. All the emotional moments were reserved for Huck’s memories of the incident and his soldier buddies. He was seemingly “cured” of all his issues, anger, and depression just by reuniting with Harper. Some good moments, but not a well-developed storyline. So much more could have been done with Huck that would remind me of Brittainy Cherry or Mia Sheridan.
“Don’t worry Harper. I’ll always find you.”
“Harper. My light. My hope.” … at least that was true.
March 23, 2021
This is an emotional and beautiful romance novel. I’m not familiar with this author, but am curious to read more of her books.
I marked my review with spoilers, because what I’m about to say doesn’t show fully in the recap.
The book started with a meet cute between the hero and heroine. They are instantly smitten with each other and their love blossomed in less than two weeks. Insta love for sure. I liked both characters and I had a soft spot for Huck. He is an amazing hero and I loved him from the start.
Although their love is steady they are separated for two years. Huck was in the military and sent abroad on a mission. He didn’t say goodbye to Harper in person and only left her a note. Within the first couple of days of him being deployed tragedy strikes. Due to a bombing he lost his hearing. He couldn’t cope with this new version of himself and desperately wanted to go back to before the accident. He didn’t think he was worthy of Harper anymore, so he never contacted her again. Until they meet again at Harper’s work, which happened by accident because he doesn’t know she works there. If this rendez vous didn’t happen, I’m not sure he would ever went out looking for her. Although he promised her two years ago he would always find his way back to her.
Don’t get me wrong, I loved Huck, but I thought Harper could’ve made him grovel more. She forgives him easily, despite him being horrible to her in the beginning. He left her hanging for two years, her not even knowing he was alive or not. He had his reasons, but his pride was more important than his feelings back then. When they get to spend more time together, you see the old Huck returning and they became the same cute couple again. Moving on from their heartache.
There was a twist plot I didn’t see coming. Perhaps this is usual for this author, but I was unfamiliar with it. It definitely had some suspense and angst and somehow it worked in this book. It showed what a great alpha guy this hero is, protecting his heroine.
This is a safe book. No OW/OM drama because there weren’t any. In the beginning you get the feeling Harper has a boyfriend, but he is actually her gay friend. Once this is solved we don’t hear from this character again. During their two year separation the hero was celibate. He hasn’t been with OW since the heroine. It isn’t mentioned if the heroine was with OM. Reading the book I assumed she wasn’t, but according to her reaction that Huck hasn’t slept with someone in two years and his POV, I’m not sure. He believes she has slept with OM and decides against asking her about it, afraid he already knows the answer is yes.
Overall I was surprised with this book and it gave me some great reading hours. Would definitely recommend this book.
I marked my review with spoilers, because what I’m about to say doesn’t show fully in the recap.
The book started with a meet cute between the hero and heroine. They are instantly smitten with each other and their love blossomed in less than two weeks. Insta love for sure. I liked both characters and I had a soft spot for Huck. He is an amazing hero and I loved him from the start.
Although their love is steady they are separated for two years. Huck was in the military and sent abroad on a mission. He didn’t say goodbye to Harper in person and only left her a note. Within the first couple of days of him being deployed tragedy strikes. Due to a bombing he lost his hearing. He couldn’t cope with this new version of himself and desperately wanted to go back to before the accident. He didn’t think he was worthy of Harper anymore, so he never contacted her again. Until they meet again at Harper’s work, which happened by accident because he doesn’t know she works there. If this rendez vous didn’t happen, I’m not sure he would ever went out looking for her. Although he promised her two years ago he would always find his way back to her.
Don’t get me wrong, I loved Huck, but I thought Harper could’ve made him grovel more. She forgives him easily, despite him being horrible to her in the beginning. He left her hanging for two years, her not even knowing he was alive or not. He had his reasons, but his pride was more important than his feelings back then. When they get to spend more time together, you see the old Huck returning and they became the same cute couple again. Moving on from their heartache.
There was a twist plot I didn’t see coming. Perhaps this is usual for this author, but I was unfamiliar with it. It definitely had some suspense and angst and somehow it worked in this book. It showed what a great alpha guy this hero is, protecting his heroine.
This is a safe book. No OW/OM drama because there weren’t any. In the beginning you get the feeling Harper has a boyfriend, but he is actually her gay friend. Once this is solved we don’t hear from this character again. During their two year separation the hero was celibate. He hasn’t been with OW since the heroine. It isn’t mentioned if the heroine was with OM. Reading the book I assumed she wasn’t, but according to her reaction that Huck hasn’t slept with someone in two years and his POV, I’m not sure. He believes she has slept with OM and decides against asking her about it, afraid he already knows the answer is yes.
Overall I was surprised with this book and it gave me some great reading hours. Would definitely recommend this book.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
February 2, 2019
Huck and Harper met while on vacation in Bali. There was no denying the chemistry between them but neither of them expected to fall in love. When Huck is called away unexpectedly because of his job all she has is hope that he will follow through on his promise that he will find her wherever she is.
Two years later Harper is still waiting and when she sees Huck again it was fate more than anything else as not only hasn’t he been looking for her, but he didn’t look happy to see her. She can see that the man that stands in front of her is not the man she knew in Bali and if they are to find their way back to each other it will be an emotional journey that neither is prepared for.
This is a second chance love story with all the feels. It is an emotional journey filled with twists about two people who belong together until life got in the way.
Two years later Harper is still waiting and when she sees Huck again it was fate more than anything else as not only hasn’t he been looking for her, but he didn’t look happy to see her. She can see that the man that stands in front of her is not the man she knew in Bali and if they are to find their way back to each other it will be an emotional journey that neither is prepared for.
This is a second chance love story with all the feels. It is an emotional journey filled with twists about two people who belong together until life got in the way.
March 21, 2019
This is such an emotional story. They met and fell in love in beautiful Bali once bth of their vacations were over they promised to keep in touch. The only thing is he didn’t call and it has been two years. Should Harper move on or should she hope and wait.
Then one day at her job she gets the surprise of her life he is one of her patients at her job, but he runs away once he sees her. Ben has been through hell and back his best friend is his bike and a bottle of Jack he has so many demons he didn’t want to involve Harper in his crazy life he is not the same man she once knew.
But Harper wants to help him she still loved him and didn’t move on and he didn’t either but will he want her help after his traumatic experience . This is my first book by this author and I loved it and would read it again.
Then one day at her job she gets the surprise of her life he is one of her patients at her job, but he runs away once he sees her. Ben has been through hell and back his best friend is his bike and a bottle of Jack he has so many demons he didn’t want to involve Harper in his crazy life he is not the same man she once knew.
But Harper wants to help him she still loved him and didn’t move on and he didn’t either but will he want her help after his traumatic experience . This is my first book by this author and I loved it and would read it again.
February 4, 2019
Lisa is getting better and better in her writing, Blackbird was such a beautiful love story. Huck just made me swoon and I fell in love with him as quickly as Harper did while they were on vacation in Bali. Then my heart was broken as he suddenly disappeared out of her life.
Two years later he suddenly returns, a bitter and defeated man, who is unwilling to try and find happiness again after the horrendous things that happened to him while he was away. Harper was just magnificent in the way she was able to put aside her broken heart to try and help him find himself again.
This story will make you swoon, smile, cry and get you frustrated at times as you go through the journey with these two. Just a brilliant book not to be missed.
Two years later he suddenly returns, a bitter and defeated man, who is unwilling to try and find happiness again after the horrendous things that happened to him while he was away. Harper was just magnificent in the way she was able to put aside her broken heart to try and help him find himself again.
This story will make you swoon, smile, cry and get you frustrated at times as you go through the journey with these two. Just a brilliant book not to be missed.
February 2, 2019
Harper and Huck's story started in Bali, and their meet-cute was fun and flirty and forever, supposedly. I felt like I was walking on the beach and I could hear Huck playing his "Eleanor" and making the beachgoers eat out of the palm of his hand, just like Harper. I think my heart sank too when the peacefulness of being on the beach crashes like the waves when he disappears with only a note left behind. I imagine the two-year wait was agony, wondering if Huck would ever return. Then he not only returns, but he's broken and distant. The story of Harper and Huck's re-connection was so moving. It was scary and heartbreaking but also hopeful and heart-healing. It gave me one big book hangover.
June 27, 2020
I loved this book from beginning to end. I fell in love with the characters and felt their pain and happiness. Huck meets Harper in Bali, he's there while he has time off from work and Harper is there because her father is getting married. They spend 9 glorious days together until Huck is pulled back into work. 2 years pass and Harper hasn't heard from Huck she misses him as he misses her.
Huck & Harper's story isn't over they find a way back to each other and the ride they take to try and get back to what they had is beautiful.
Huck & Harper's story isn't over they find a way back to each other and the ride they take to try and get back to what they had is beautiful.
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