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Gin's Tonic
What mends first? A shattered heart or a broken mind?
What began as a series of misunderstandings catapults into urgent need, as Gin finds herself forced to make an impossible choice, staying faithful to memories of the past or living for the future.
I’m not who I used to be.
Losing them turned me into someone I don’t even recognize. I’m not even sure I want to know that person.
So I ran.
But that was just a change in longitude and latitude.
When I met Roman, my insides were a twisted, decayed, knife-edged thing I was sure no one would ever want.
But he took every crushed bit of it and demanded more.
He’s as scarred on the outside as I am on the inside, but somehow, we fit together like two jagged pieces of the same fractured puzzle. Our tortured pasts brought us together—then ripped us apart.
Falling for him was inevitable. So was losing him.
Girl meets boy, girl loses boy, but maybe…girl gets nothing at the end.
Happily ever after just isn’t meant for people like me…right?
Gin’s Tonic is a steamy, angsty, mature, small town romance featuring an Asian-American heroine who is stronger than she knows. This is the story of a perfectly imperfect woman and the tall-dark-and-brooding hero who proves to her that love after loss is possible.
Please note: Gin’s Tonic contains sensitive material such as uncensored adult language, explicit content, and thoughts of self-harm after extreme loss. READER DISCRETION ADVISED.
What began as a series of misunderstandings catapults into urgent need, as Gin finds herself forced to make an impossible choice, staying faithful to memories of the past or living for the future.
I’m not who I used to be.
Losing them turned me into someone I don’t even recognize. I’m not even sure I want to know that person.
So I ran.
But that was just a change in longitude and latitude.
When I met Roman, my insides were a twisted, decayed, knife-edged thing I was sure no one would ever want.
But he took every crushed bit of it and demanded more.
He’s as scarred on the outside as I am on the inside, but somehow, we fit together like two jagged pieces of the same fractured puzzle. Our tortured pasts brought us together—then ripped us apart.
Falling for him was inevitable. So was losing him.
Girl meets boy, girl loses boy, but maybe…girl gets nothing at the end.
Happily ever after just isn’t meant for people like me…right?
Gin’s Tonic is a steamy, angsty, mature, small town romance featuring an Asian-American heroine who is stronger than she knows. This is the story of a perfectly imperfect woman and the tall-dark-and-brooding hero who proves to her that love after loss is possible.
Please note: Gin’s Tonic contains sensitive material such as uncensored adult language, explicit content, and thoughts of self-harm after extreme loss. READER DISCRETION ADVISED.
284 pages, Kindle Edition
Published April 16, 2020
54 people are currently reading
143 people want to read
About the author
Olivia Owen
52 books18 followersOlivia Owen is new to the world of writing romance novels (long time reader, first time writer). Every once in a while, she finds it is necessary to push out of her safe little box and do something that kind of scares her. This is definitely one of those things. She has a soft spot for bulky, brooding male leads and the awkward, relatable women those guys just can't help but love.
In her free time, she can be found cooking with just a bit too much butter, contemplating having Lasik surgery to increase her chances of survival during a zombie apocalypse, and (much like her novel’s heroine) having coffee in her garden while conjuring up happily ever afters.
In her free time, she can be found cooking with just a bit too much butter, contemplating having Lasik surgery to increase her chances of survival during a zombie apocalypse, and (much like her novel’s heroine) having coffee in her garden while conjuring up happily ever afters.
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April 16, 2020
THIS IS MY 100th READ IN 2020!
Follow me on Instagram where I’ll be soon announcing a giveaway with this book front and center! Stay tuned!
Strong Women, Diversity & Hot Guys: My Wet Dream Come True LOL
*arc generously provided by the author in exchange for an honest review*
Me after reading this novel:
"I still get lonely
And baby, only then do I let myself recline
Can I let go, and let your memory dance
In the ballroom of my mind?
Across the county line."
13 Beaches – Lana Del Rey
What’s this book about? (I'm trying to give as little spoilers as possible)
Gin had it all and then she was left with nothing. When tragedy strikes for Gin, it takes everything she ever wanted. Now, she needs to move on. Easier said than done. She meets Roman and she falls for him, but she can’t shake the feeling that she’s not enough. Is there a silver lining on her horizon?
THIS STORY CONTAINS GRAPHIC LANGUAGE; EXPLICIT CONTENT, SELF-HARM THOUGHTS AFTER EXTREME & TRAGIC LOSS.
“It hurts to love you, but I still love you
It's just the way I feel
And I'd be lying if I kept hiding
The fact that I can't deal
And that I've been dying
For something real
That I've been dying for something real.”
13 Beaches – Lana Del Rey
This is my first book by Olivia Owen; this is her debut novel. This story came to me through Instagram when the lovely author messaged me about it! Thank god, she did! Something would be missing if I hadn’t read this story. I needed it.
Me while reading this booking with all the FEELS in my face
WHERE DO I EVEN START? WHERE? Ok. Let’s start with the general ideas. This was a page-turner for me, to the point of being unable to put it down at night. I went to sleep and when I woke up, I WAS LIKE ‘GIMME GIN’S TONIC NOW. WHAT HAPPENS TO GIN? I WANNA KNOW!’ There was happening after happening in the story, keeping you on your toes throughout. It’s a slow burn, but there’s definitely action to keep you afloat. The author built a world here that is just lovely. It drew you in from page one. I can’t wait to see where she takes the next instalments of this series! This read, as you can see from the trigger warnings, is especially emotional. It slaps you left and right. There’s so much tragedy in these characters that I can’t help but applaud their adversity once they get out of that dark hole. This isn’t a happy story, but it is pretty hilarious at times. I empathized with Gin from the first chapter to the epilogue. Her tragic backstory is heart-breaking. This is told form her perspective only and I think that’s a pretty good statement right there. I have a soft spot for imperfect leading heroines/heroes. This woman was immensely self-aware in all of her faults and I couldn’t help but cheer for her to find her peace. She’s definitely in my top five heroines of the year!
Her chemistry with the leading man was OFF THE CHAINS. As slow burn go, when these two joined forces, WOWOWOWOWOWOOWOWOW. The steam was so hot that I feared my fire alarm would go off. What a leading man… He was hot, brooding and complex, a perfect addition to the heroine.
The entire set-up of this story follows a small and gossipy but superbly cute town in Colorado. The people there were adorable, funny and dramatic. Gin’s interactions with them were amusing and entertaining. I can’t wait for more of their stories.
Another aspect that I loved in this novel was the fact that this sounds like a modern novel. There is diversity of all kinds. Women support women. Women save themselves. Characters are self-aware. Characters try to communicate their issues (at the end, lol, but it’s never too late). Men aren’t hated on as if they’re the root of all evil, but they’re not forgiven for each stupid mistake they commit either. I love the messages that this story sends out. It’s dark and painful to read what happened to these characters, but Gin takes you along the colourful ride with LOVE. It’s easy to include diversity in your story. A touch here. A touch there. No tokenisms. AUTHORS, GET THE HINT. I’m on the look-out for more stories with diverse casts and when this author releases her next story, I’m definitely reading it!
I recommend this read to readers like me who are thirsty for diversity in their novels, admirers of tortured leads with lots of healing in their future and lovers of an emotionally captivating story.
Original comment: I finished this four hours ago and I've purchased it, in the meantime. HAPPY RELEASE DAY!!!!
Instagram
Facebook
Goodreads
Bookbub
Amazon
Follow me on Instagram where I’ll be soon announcing a giveaway with this book front and center! Stay tuned!
Strong Women, Diversity & Hot Guys: My Wet Dream Come True LOL
*arc generously provided by the author in exchange for an honest review*
Me after reading this novel:
"I still get lonely
And baby, only then do I let myself recline
Can I let go, and let your memory dance
In the ballroom of my mind?
Across the county line."
13 Beaches – Lana Del Rey
What’s this book about? (I'm trying to give as little spoilers as possible)
Gin had it all and then she was left with nothing. When tragedy strikes for Gin, it takes everything she ever wanted. Now, she needs to move on. Easier said than done. She meets Roman and she falls for him, but she can’t shake the feeling that she’s not enough. Is there a silver lining on her horizon?
THIS STORY CONTAINS GRAPHIC LANGUAGE; EXPLICIT CONTENT, SELF-HARM THOUGHTS AFTER EXTREME & TRAGIC LOSS.
“It hurts to love you, but I still love you
It's just the way I feel
And I'd be lying if I kept hiding
The fact that I can't deal
And that I've been dying
For something real
That I've been dying for something real.”
13 Beaches – Lana Del Rey
This is my first book by Olivia Owen; this is her debut novel. This story came to me through Instagram when the lovely author messaged me about it! Thank god, she did! Something would be missing if I hadn’t read this story. I needed it.
Me while reading this booking with all the FEELS in my face
WHERE DO I EVEN START? WHERE? Ok. Let’s start with the general ideas. This was a page-turner for me, to the point of being unable to put it down at night. I went to sleep and when I woke up, I WAS LIKE ‘GIMME GIN’S TONIC NOW. WHAT HAPPENS TO GIN? I WANNA KNOW!’ There was happening after happening in the story, keeping you on your toes throughout. It’s a slow burn, but there’s definitely action to keep you afloat. The author built a world here that is just lovely. It drew you in from page one. I can’t wait to see where she takes the next instalments of this series! This read, as you can see from the trigger warnings, is especially emotional. It slaps you left and right. There’s so much tragedy in these characters that I can’t help but applaud their adversity once they get out of that dark hole. This isn’t a happy story, but it is pretty hilarious at times. I empathized with Gin from the first chapter to the epilogue. Her tragic backstory is heart-breaking. This is told form her perspective only and I think that’s a pretty good statement right there. I have a soft spot for imperfect leading heroines/heroes. This woman was immensely self-aware in all of her faults and I couldn’t help but cheer for her to find her peace. She’s definitely in my top five heroines of the year!
Her chemistry with the leading man was OFF THE CHAINS. As slow burn go, when these two joined forces, WOWOWOWOWOWOOWOWOW. The steam was so hot that I feared my fire alarm would go off. What a leading man… He was hot, brooding and complex, a perfect addition to the heroine.
The entire set-up of this story follows a small and gossipy but superbly cute town in Colorado. The people there were adorable, funny and dramatic. Gin’s interactions with them were amusing and entertaining. I can’t wait for more of their stories.
Another aspect that I loved in this novel was the fact that this sounds like a modern novel. There is diversity of all kinds. Women support women. Women save themselves. Characters are self-aware. Characters try to communicate their issues (at the end, lol, but it’s never too late). Men aren’t hated on as if they’re the root of all evil, but they’re not forgiven for each stupid mistake they commit either. I love the messages that this story sends out. It’s dark and painful to read what happened to these characters, but Gin takes you along the colourful ride with LOVE. It’s easy to include diversity in your story. A touch here. A touch there. No tokenisms. AUTHORS, GET THE HINT. I’m on the look-out for more stories with diverse casts and when this author releases her next story, I’m definitely reading it!
I recommend this read to readers like me who are thirsty for diversity in their novels, admirers of tortured leads with lots of healing in their future and lovers of an emotionally captivating story.
Original comment: I finished this four hours ago and I've purchased it, in the meantime. HAPPY RELEASE DAY!!!!
Goodreads
Bookbub
Amazon
April 18, 2020
4.5 stars
*I voluntarily read an ARC of this book*
Gin’s Tonic is written by new author Olivia Owen, although the storytelling doesn’t come off as debut.
It takes our heroine, Gin, on a gritty journey of grief and guilt as she navigates a new normal after a major trauma. She’s got a lot to work through, and while she knows it in her head, getting her heart to agree is something different entirely.
It’s on this journey that she (nearly) crashes into a tiny town where she meets Roman, who’s just as scarred as she is, only his are visible. They’re both tangled in secrets they’re trying to break free of, and pasts that continue to haunt them. The magnetic pull between them is intense, and they’ll either crash and burn, or rise together.
.
I started this book telling myself I would just get the first few chapters read, so that at least I started it. Well, ten chapters later I still didn’t want to put it down, so I didn’t.
.
The characters are complex, the angst is high (my preferred level), the heartache feels real, and the emotions are raw. I love that the reader also gets to know *just enough* about a few side characters that you’ll want their full stories as well.
(There are two in particular who I’d love to see redeemed!)
.
As a side note, this Southern California girl appreciated all the references to my home state (like hundred degree September days!), which also happens to be where Gin is from.
.
Just a heads up for anyone who needs CWs:
Child and spouse loss is a major theme in this book, there are thoughts of self-harm, and there is a scene with an attempted rape (but nothing graphically descriptive), and the sexual encounters between the MCs are very mature and descriptive.
*I voluntarily read an ARC of this book*
Gin’s Tonic is written by new author Olivia Owen, although the storytelling doesn’t come off as debut.
It takes our heroine, Gin, on a gritty journey of grief and guilt as she navigates a new normal after a major trauma. She’s got a lot to work through, and while she knows it in her head, getting her heart to agree is something different entirely.
It’s on this journey that she (nearly) crashes into a tiny town where she meets Roman, who’s just as scarred as she is, only his are visible. They’re both tangled in secrets they’re trying to break free of, and pasts that continue to haunt them. The magnetic pull between them is intense, and they’ll either crash and burn, or rise together.
.
I started this book telling myself I would just get the first few chapters read, so that at least I started it. Well, ten chapters later I still didn’t want to put it down, so I didn’t.
.
The characters are complex, the angst is high (my preferred level), the heartache feels real, and the emotions are raw. I love that the reader also gets to know *just enough* about a few side characters that you’ll want their full stories as well.
(There are two in particular who I’d love to see redeemed!)
.
As a side note, this Southern California girl appreciated all the references to my home state (like hundred degree September days!), which also happens to be where Gin is from.
.
Just a heads up for anyone who needs CWs:
Child and spouse loss is a major theme in this book, there are thoughts of self-harm, and there is a scene with an attempted rape (but nothing graphically descriptive), and the sexual encounters between the MCs are very mature and descriptive.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
April 2, 2020
Olivia Owen, good job. I love this book. It is full of angst, deep pain, lust, betrayal and love. Much love, the kind of love that sticks by you when you are at your craziest. The kind that says you are a nut job right now, but I will hang on until you are back. Gin has faced so much pain and she knows a lot of it is of her own making. Her own need to get ahead at the cost of those who love and need her. In a small town where everyone knows your secrets and still likes you, her life is starting over, but carrying a burden of pain she doesn't know how to mend and who does she meet? A man who has faced his own pain and betrayal. Together, they don't make sense, but life is like that.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
April 5, 2020
What?!? An Asian Heroine?!
I can’t believe Gin’s Tonic has a real Asian-American heroine in the story. Usually, any mention of Asians is dimmed but Gin has recognizable traits. This story isn’t for the faint of heart, it is an angsty romance for sure. This novel is 10 stars!!!
I can’t believe Gin’s Tonic has a real Asian-American heroine in the story. Usually, any mention of Asians is dimmed but Gin has recognizable traits. This story isn’t for the faint of heart, it is an angsty romance for sure. This novel is 10 stars!!!
April 17, 2020
I'm so happy the book has a Chinese-American heroine and she actually exhibits the nuances and behaviors of an Asian- American woman. The book doesn't mute any traits and I can relate! Love!
April 10, 2020
Gin's Tonic by Olivia Owen is beautiful contemporary romance. When Virginia loses her husband and one-year old son in a terrible accident, everything feels empty and hopeless for her. She blames herself for being too obsessed with her work and giving very little time for her family.
Gin goes on a road trip in search of herself and a place to call home. She reaches a small village amidst the mountains, called Jasper where she meets Roman. A man with scars on the outside, but incredibly beautiful on the inside. He may be a man of few words but he is full of love. I fell in love with Roman head over heels.
Though Gin finds it hard to believe that she is worthy of love again, Roman gives her his unconditional love. She also falls in love with Oliver, Roman's three-year old son.
The village Jasper becomes the home she was searching for all along. She instantly falls in love with the people of Jasper, Sam's kitchen, and everything else in the village.
Gin's Tonic is a beautiful story of love, hope and togetherness. Author wrote about the setting and the characters in great detail. I totally enjoyed the pace of the story.
I received this book from NetGalley for an honest review. Gin's Tonic releasing on 16th of April. Go ahead and read it in this gloomy lock-down time and I assure you that this book will lift up your mood.
Gin goes on a road trip in search of herself and a place to call home. She reaches a small village amidst the mountains, called Jasper where she meets Roman. A man with scars on the outside, but incredibly beautiful on the inside. He may be a man of few words but he is full of love. I fell in love with Roman head over heels.
Though Gin finds it hard to believe that she is worthy of love again, Roman gives her his unconditional love. She also falls in love with Oliver, Roman's three-year old son.
The village Jasper becomes the home she was searching for all along. She instantly falls in love with the people of Jasper, Sam's kitchen, and everything else in the village.
Gin's Tonic is a beautiful story of love, hope and togetherness. Author wrote about the setting and the characters in great detail. I totally enjoyed the pace of the story.
I received this book from NetGalley for an honest review. Gin's Tonic releasing on 16th of April. Go ahead and read it in this gloomy lock-down time and I assure you that this book will lift up your mood.
April 3, 2020
Survivor’s guilt…. Loss …. Broken Heart …. Broken Mind … Broken Soul
Will running help? Can Gin let go of the past enough to heal?
This is not a feel good read but it is a story that will grab you, draw you in from the first page. It’s a journey … a journey by the of way of a long, curvy road with cliffs on each side. It's a journey dealing with loss, dealing with grief, dealing with the past while trying to restructure a future. Gin learns it can be done…. but at what cost?
👁 OBSERVATIONS:
Loss never is easy, but when it’s coupled with guilt the pain doubles, triples, quadruples and on and on. This is an angsty story where life suddenly changes. There are many forms of grief. Gin’s grief is one of the hardest. Her learning how to cope brings out many things. In the end, she finds out she has more strength than she thought possible. And the help of a special ‘someone’ does more than lend a helping hand.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
April 8, 2020
Gin is struggling to get through the day. Will she learn to live again or let survivors guilt drown her?
This book definitely took you through all the emotions. You couldn't help, but feel for Gin as she struggles to overcome the grief she is dealing with. I loved when she finally "woke" up and saw that it was okay to want to live. I absolutely loved Roman and how he was determined to help her heal, but was determined to let her heal on her own. Great read!
This book definitely took you through all the emotions. You couldn't help, but feel for Gin as she struggles to overcome the grief she is dealing with. I loved when she finally "woke" up and saw that it was okay to want to live. I absolutely loved Roman and how he was determined to help her heal, but was determined to let her heal on her own. Great read!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
April 9, 2020
I could not put this down! Gin's Tonic is angsty, uncensored and raw. She’s relatable and damaged but fighting to find her way back. Great story and depth that connected with me. You will not be disappointed.
April 4, 2020
All I can say is you JUST NEED TO READ IT. There are so many unexpected twists to this sultry romance novel. It's a fish out of water romance, but intertwined with intrigue and raw real emotions. Gin is a woman from LA who leaves everything behind to start a new life in small town Colorado….note, I said woman. This is romance for women, written by a women. I'm getting way too old to read about young virgins. She experiences heartbreak, loss, and ultimately finds her happily ever after. Again, JUST READ IT!
March 30, 2020
full review coming up right after but let me just say these four words "Chinese-American Woman Lead"!!!!! representation is important and I had been casually looking for more love stories featuring Asian women recently, by which I mean Asian-american leads who were more than just a fetish or stereotype so I was psyched to find this gem. i think the author strikes a good balance between setting the main character in the context of her culture without reducing her to any one aspect of her identity while weaving a moving and suspenseful, and VERY sexy story. Gin is a flawed character that still manages to be relatable and real, which feels really authentic. Loved this, highly recommended!
April 3, 2020
I never post reviews, but I just couldn't get this book out of my head. There's a real Asian-American author writing about an Asian-American woman. I could relate to Gin and all the traits she exhibits, though subtle, it's very recognizable. I loved this story, especially because I'm a working mother of three children. It's heartbreaking, but has a satisfying happily ever after.
April 16, 2020
Rating: 3.5*
The writing in this book is beautiful. I enjoyed reading from Gin’s point of view and seeing her rise from her struggles by herself. What Gin went through wasn’t easy; it was heartbreaking to read about but I’m glad her story got to be told. Gin is Chinese American, as is the author herself which is why I think the representation shined. I loved Gin talking about her culture, her parent's immigration/their hard work, and the traditional Chinese food that she would make, just to name a few. Her culture was a part of her and she didn’t let it dim, she let it glow, which I loved.
The side characters though! My favorite was Aunt May—she’s a gem! She was way too cool and I loved all the wisdom that she had to give to Gin. She definitely made the story a little brighter despite most of its darkness.
Sadly, my issue was with Roman. I don’t know if I’ve just read about too many sulky heroes and have had enough, but he just wasn’t my cup of tea. I had a lot of issues with his behavior which couldn’t make me get on board with loving him as Gin did. I also wasn’t the biggest fan of their insta-love connection. I thought it wasn’t practical for Gin who was in a dark place.
Overall, I still had fun reading this book and I’ll definitely be checking out Olivia Owens's future works!
*Thank you to NetGalley for providing me with a free copy*
The writing in this book is beautiful. I enjoyed reading from Gin’s point of view and seeing her rise from her struggles by herself. What Gin went through wasn’t easy; it was heartbreaking to read about but I’m glad her story got to be told. Gin is Chinese American, as is the author herself which is why I think the representation shined. I loved Gin talking about her culture, her parent's immigration/their hard work, and the traditional Chinese food that she would make, just to name a few. Her culture was a part of her and she didn’t let it dim, she let it glow, which I loved.
The side characters though! My favorite was Aunt May—she’s a gem! She was way too cool and I loved all the wisdom that she had to give to Gin. She definitely made the story a little brighter despite most of its darkness.
Sadly, my issue was with Roman. I don’t know if I’ve just read about too many sulky heroes and have had enough, but he just wasn’t my cup of tea. I had a lot of issues with his behavior which couldn’t make me get on board with loving him as Gin did. I also wasn’t the biggest fan of their insta-love connection. I thought it wasn’t practical for Gin who was in a dark place.
Overall, I still had fun reading this book and I’ll definitely be checking out Olivia Owens's future works!
*Thank you to NetGalley for providing me with a free copy*
April 16, 2020
Heartbreakingly beautiful yet uplifting at the same time, Gin’s Tonic is everything I didn’t know I needed. I couldn’t put the book down and almost hated myself when it ended up being 3 am and I needed to sleep.
Olivia Owen’s debut novel isn’t what I expected it to be, in the best possible way. I was blown away with how deep we see into the psyche of the main character as she navigates her loss, depression, and ultimately her revival. She was strong in all the ways I want a heroine to be. While Roman was there for Gin when she let him, he wasn’t the one to put her back together...she did it herself (with encouragement from those around her). And Roman, well he was an alpha male but not to the extreme. He was there for Gin but knew when she needed the space. A man of few words, I fell in love with him too.
It’s not often I find myself full of so many emotions when reading a book, but I felt Gin’s heartache and hurt so much for her. I felt it deep down that I can’t even explain how torn it left me. I’m beyond excited to see what else Olivia brings in the future.
Sara
Welikethemdarkbookblog
Olivia Owen’s debut novel isn’t what I expected it to be, in the best possible way. I was blown away with how deep we see into the psyche of the main character as she navigates her loss, depression, and ultimately her revival. She was strong in all the ways I want a heroine to be. While Roman was there for Gin when she let him, he wasn’t the one to put her back together...she did it herself (with encouragement from those around her). And Roman, well he was an alpha male but not to the extreme. He was there for Gin but knew when she needed the space. A man of few words, I fell in love with him too.
It’s not often I find myself full of so many emotions when reading a book, but I felt Gin’s heartache and hurt so much for her. I felt it deep down that I can’t even explain how torn it left me. I’m beyond excited to see what else Olivia brings in the future.
Sara
Welikethemdarkbookblog
March 27, 2020
Gin has spent the better of six months not living and letting survivor’s guilt almost get the better of her. After months of anguish, she comes to the realization that she just can’t be in that house anymore, and grabbed some random items (and one not so random item) to throw in her car and just left the area.
While not really paying attention, she’s almost in an accident and comes across a brooding mass of a man, Roman, who, at first sight, shocks her. While her scars are hidden on the surface, his are in plain sight.
While Roman has mostly fought off his demons, can he help Gin with hers?
There is HEA, but not without struggles. This is one of the most real books that I’ve read for awhile. I cannot believe that this came from a new author, the feelings and descriptions are totally today believable. I don’t do this for new authors so here’s my cherry...5 stars! Please give me another one!
While not really paying attention, she’s almost in an accident and comes across a brooding mass of a man, Roman, who, at first sight, shocks her. While her scars are hidden on the surface, his are in plain sight.
While Roman has mostly fought off his demons, can he help Gin with hers?
There is HEA, but not without struggles. This is one of the most real books that I’ve read for awhile. I cannot believe that this came from a new author, the feelings and descriptions are totally today believable. I don’t do this for new authors so here’s my cherry...5 stars! Please give me another one!
April 5, 2020
Olivia Owen is one to watch! Her debut novel blew me away! After taking a peek at the first chapter, I abandoned the book I was reading and dove head-first into Gin & Roman's enthralling story! There was so much devastation and heartbreak, but tempered with redemption and love and healing....and a terrific supporting group of townsfolk that I'm excited to read more about! For sure one of my top five reads of 2020! I am SO GRATEFUL to Hidden Gems Books for my early review copy, and for finding a new favorite author! My opinion is enthusiastically honest and left voluntarily.
April 15, 2020
"I am yours, but you will never be mine unless you finish this journey – and find me"
3-3.5 stars.
I really enjoyed Gin and Roman's story and for me this was a solid debut novel!
Gin abandons a high paying job, social status, her house and her friends, in attempt to leave her guilt and painful memories behind. She runs right into a small town, far from home, where Roman is barely living, just going through the motions. Gin has deeps scars on the inside, while Roman displays his on his skin. Their attraction is instantaneous, but there is a lot of grief, trauma and guilt these two need to sort through.
I loved that Gin was Asian American, 35 years old and with stretch marks! It was very refreshing. I also admired how Gin dealt with her mental health issues, recognising she needed help. Both Gin and Roman were aware that she needed to fix herself before being in a relationship. The lady saves herself in this one! The romance was the perfect balance of steamy and sweet!
The reason for my rating is because the writing felt a bit choppy at times, I had the impression the paragraphs didn't really flow. I also had some trouble connecting to Gin's character. Although I really felt her grief, the other aspects of the personality were unpredictable. She would be adamant about doing something, and a couple of pages later she would do the exact opposite.
Still, I would recommend this book and look forward to reading more stories about these characters and from this author!
**Thank you NetGalley for providing a free ARC in exchange for an honest review**
3-3.5 stars.
I really enjoyed Gin and Roman's story and for me this was a solid debut novel!
Gin abandons a high paying job, social status, her house and her friends, in attempt to leave her guilt and painful memories behind. She runs right into a small town, far from home, where Roman is barely living, just going through the motions. Gin has deeps scars on the inside, while Roman displays his on his skin. Their attraction is instantaneous, but there is a lot of grief, trauma and guilt these two need to sort through.
I loved that Gin was Asian American, 35 years old and with stretch marks! It was very refreshing. I also admired how Gin dealt with her mental health issues, recognising she needed help. Both Gin and Roman were aware that she needed to fix herself before being in a relationship. The lady saves herself in this one! The romance was the perfect balance of steamy and sweet!
The reason for my rating is because the writing felt a bit choppy at times, I had the impression the paragraphs didn't really flow. I also had some trouble connecting to Gin's character. Although I really felt her grief, the other aspects of the personality were unpredictable. She would be adamant about doing something, and a couple of pages later she would do the exact opposite.
Still, I would recommend this book and look forward to reading more stories about these characters and from this author!
**Thank you NetGalley for providing a free ARC in exchange for an honest review**
April 15, 2020
I received an ARC of this book for an honest review.
This is Olivia's debut novel and I have to say, it is intense. The opening to the book is raw, powerful and will pull the emotions out of you without even trying. You want to know more, you have to. You feel for Virginia, aka Gin. You want to reach through the book and hug her. All of these powerful emotions are evoked just from the first few pages.
As Gin moves through the story, you continue to feel every impact of emotion that Olivia is trying to portray through this character. It is intense and raw. The impact is soul consuming, making you want so much more for her, for Roman. For everyone.
That being said, I am not a huge fan of single POV. I do understand where some author's use it and why they use it, I just feel like I am always missing half of the story when I don't get both sides of it. It didn't take away from this book at all, it is just as intense as it should be, it is just a personal preference. Olivia does address this at the end of the book and I agree with her assessment on using a singular point of view, I just wish I had more of Roman's side of things.
This book does have some triggers, so be cautious when reading it. I won't give anything away as this is a new release, but just be mindful of these situations when they occur.
Four stars for this intense, raw and powerful read that will definitely have you feeling all the emotions possible.
This is Olivia's debut novel and I have to say, it is intense. The opening to the book is raw, powerful and will pull the emotions out of you without even trying. You want to know more, you have to. You feel for Virginia, aka Gin. You want to reach through the book and hug her. All of these powerful emotions are evoked just from the first few pages.
As Gin moves through the story, you continue to feel every impact of emotion that Olivia is trying to portray through this character. It is intense and raw. The impact is soul consuming, making you want so much more for her, for Roman. For everyone.
That being said, I am not a huge fan of single POV. I do understand where some author's use it and why they use it, I just feel like I am always missing half of the story when I don't get both sides of it. It didn't take away from this book at all, it is just as intense as it should be, it is just a personal preference. Olivia does address this at the end of the book and I agree with her assessment on using a singular point of view, I just wish I had more of Roman's side of things.
This book does have some triggers, so be cautious when reading it. I won't give anything away as this is a new release, but just be mindful of these situations when they occur.
Four stars for this intense, raw and powerful read that will definitely have you feeling all the emotions possible.
Read
April 11, 2020Gin's Tonic - Loved it!
I love reading about diverse and complex characters and this story smashed my expectations. Very ansty and beautiful. Good job Olivia Owen.
I love reading about diverse and complex characters and this story smashed my expectations. Very ansty and beautiful. Good job Olivia Owen.
March 30, 2020
This novel tries to combine a psychological novel with pornography and a hot love story. Unfortunately the male hero is too perfect and the disturbed heroine is reacting in a way that doesn't seem believable.
The sex scenes were just too much for my personal liking.
The sex scenes were just too much for my personal liking.
September 4, 2020
Ratings (out of of 5):
Angst: 💥💥💥💥
Sensitive Alpha: 🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥
Redemption: ❤️❤️❤️❤️
⠀
Blind with grief and completely unfamiliar with the person grief has turned her into, Gin finds herself in Jasper, Colorado. There, she meets Roman, a nearly silent giant who has his own grief to bear. He sees her at a time when she can’t even see herself. But has Gin fractured into too many pieces? Is she too brittle to be whole again for herself, let alone another person?
⠀
This book is angsty. It is sad. It is hard. I’ll go ahead and get the trigger warnings out of the way now. 🚨There is the death of a spouse and child and then subsequent suicidal ideation .🚨 This is a hard book to read at times, I won’t lie. BUT in the midst of the pain and angst is a TON of beauty and heart.
⠀
Let’s talk about Gin. As heroines go, she’s one in a million. Super driven and successful before her world fell apart, she suffers a complete and total breakdown. I won’t lie to you - Gin is rather hard to like for the first half of this book. She’s like a wounded animal who strikes at many of the hands that reach out to her. But I really appreciate this. Grief has a way of stripping us down and reducing us the most elemental, raw versions of ourselves. She may be hard to like, but she’s easy to cheer for. We WANT her to get better.
⠀
A major message of this book is that we all deserve and need to be loved, even when we are our most wounded and, yes, unlikeable. Roman, our hero, sees Gin for who she is and loves her because of it. To this point, however, I appreciate that Owen doesn’t fall into the “magic dicking mends broken heart and fixes all problems even the impossible ones” trope. Roman loves Gin but is under no delusion that his love (or peen) will heal her. Only she can do that.
⠀
Roman is a giant, burly, rancher of VERY few words who has callouses on his hands and a dominant streak a mile wide. He’s not perfect, but he’s compassionate and perceptive, and a generous member of the town. Yes, please.
⠀
If you like a small town romance with plenty of angst, chemistry, and a cast of really lovely characters, definitely give Gin’s Tonic a read.
⠀
Kiss and Tell:
This book has sexual chemistry in buckets, friends, which leads to kissing, hand play, oral, and p&v penetration. Gin is a woman with sexual agency who is neither ashamed nor shy about that fact and I was HERE for it.
Angst: 💥💥💥💥
Sensitive Alpha: 🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥
Redemption: ❤️❤️❤️❤️
⠀
Blind with grief and completely unfamiliar with the person grief has turned her into, Gin finds herself in Jasper, Colorado. There, she meets Roman, a nearly silent giant who has his own grief to bear. He sees her at a time when she can’t even see herself. But has Gin fractured into too many pieces? Is she too brittle to be whole again for herself, let alone another person?
⠀
This book is angsty. It is sad. It is hard. I’ll go ahead and get the trigger warnings out of the way now. 🚨There is the death of a spouse and child and then subsequent suicidal ideation .🚨 This is a hard book to read at times, I won’t lie. BUT in the midst of the pain and angst is a TON of beauty and heart.
⠀
Let’s talk about Gin. As heroines go, she’s one in a million. Super driven and successful before her world fell apart, she suffers a complete and total breakdown. I won’t lie to you - Gin is rather hard to like for the first half of this book. She’s like a wounded animal who strikes at many of the hands that reach out to her. But I really appreciate this. Grief has a way of stripping us down and reducing us the most elemental, raw versions of ourselves. She may be hard to like, but she’s easy to cheer for. We WANT her to get better.
⠀
A major message of this book is that we all deserve and need to be loved, even when we are our most wounded and, yes, unlikeable. Roman, our hero, sees Gin for who she is and loves her because of it. To this point, however, I appreciate that Owen doesn’t fall into the “magic dicking mends broken heart and fixes all problems even the impossible ones” trope. Roman loves Gin but is under no delusion that his love (or peen) will heal her. Only she can do that.
⠀
Roman is a giant, burly, rancher of VERY few words who has callouses on his hands and a dominant streak a mile wide. He’s not perfect, but he’s compassionate and perceptive, and a generous member of the town. Yes, please.
⠀
If you like a small town romance with plenty of angst, chemistry, and a cast of really lovely characters, definitely give Gin’s Tonic a read.
⠀
Kiss and Tell:
This book has sexual chemistry in buckets, friends, which leads to kissing, hand play, oral, and p&v penetration. Gin is a woman with sexual agency who is neither ashamed nor shy about that fact and I was HERE for it.
May 5, 2020
If you read one book this year make sure it's Gin's Tonic. You won't be disappointed.
I loved this book. It was easy to read, it gives you all the feels, it takes you on a roller coaster ride I didn't want to get off.
Gin was the type of character you just wanted to give a hug to. She was so heart broken and lost at the start so it was heartwarming to watch her grow and mend herself during this book. Her inner monologue cracked me up a number of times as well.
Roman was just a total sweetheart and such a lovely guy that you couldn't not fall for him from the get go. He showed such a lovely side of himself considering what he had been through.
To round out a good book with great lead characters is to have a great group of secondary characters. Well you had them in spades here. I loved the banter with all the women in this book. I think this is what I enjoyed the most was the realism of the funny banter or the a girlfriend giving it to you straight as only a true friend could.
When I was reading the Author Notes I was staggered to read this was Olivia's first book. She writes like a seasoned pro with a good dozen books under her belt. I can't wait to read the follow up books for this series and see where Olivia takes us.
I was given this free book for an honest review.
I loved this book. It was easy to read, it gives you all the feels, it takes you on a roller coaster ride I didn't want to get off.
Gin was the type of character you just wanted to give a hug to. She was so heart broken and lost at the start so it was heartwarming to watch her grow and mend herself during this book. Her inner monologue cracked me up a number of times as well.
Roman was just a total sweetheart and such a lovely guy that you couldn't not fall for him from the get go. He showed such a lovely side of himself considering what he had been through.
To round out a good book with great lead characters is to have a great group of secondary characters. Well you had them in spades here. I loved the banter with all the women in this book. I think this is what I enjoyed the most was the realism of the funny banter or the a girlfriend giving it to you straight as only a true friend could.
When I was reading the Author Notes I was staggered to read this was Olivia's first book. She writes like a seasoned pro with a good dozen books under her belt. I can't wait to read the follow up books for this series and see where Olivia takes us.
I was given this free book for an honest review.
April 18, 2020
I have missed the art of literature, being that workaholic mother with no time for anything. If there’s one thing Covid-19 has blessed us with is time, and that’s how I got lost in the world of Gin and caught myself falling in love with the town of Jasper, Colorado.
Gin’s character is relatable on so many levels, she’s a beautiful disaster much like myself. Gin feels tremendous guilt and unworthy of more than numbing her pain with cigarettes and alcohol. Through the kindness of perfect strangers in an unknown small town she stumbled upon, Gin learns she is a human worthy of love and has so much to offer once shown her self sabotage doesn’t stand a chance with the love and patience of her knight Roman.
Olivia Owen has brought her characters to life effortlessly showing unique personalities from diverse backgrounds. Aside from romance and all the sexy stuff that may lead you to pick up a book of this nature this book has culture!
I find myself missing the characters Olivia Owen has created, wondering where they are now and where they will go. I searched for more books from this author and was amazed to find out this is her debut book.
I found romance in quarantine through Gin’s Tonic and somehow don’t feel so alone.
Gin’s character is relatable on so many levels, she’s a beautiful disaster much like myself. Gin feels tremendous guilt and unworthy of more than numbing her pain with cigarettes and alcohol. Through the kindness of perfect strangers in an unknown small town she stumbled upon, Gin learns she is a human worthy of love and has so much to offer once shown her self sabotage doesn’t stand a chance with the love and patience of her knight Roman.
Olivia Owen has brought her characters to life effortlessly showing unique personalities from diverse backgrounds. Aside from romance and all the sexy stuff that may lead you to pick up a book of this nature this book has culture!
I find myself missing the characters Olivia Owen has created, wondering where they are now and where they will go. I searched for more books from this author and was amazed to find out this is her debut book.
I found romance in quarantine through Gin’s Tonic and somehow don’t feel so alone.
April 19, 2020
HOLY EMOTIONAL HELL! Olivia Owen definitely brought me to my knees with Gin's Tonic, and I'm still quite emotional from everything to be honest. It's the story of Gin, who has suffered unimaginable loss in her life, and I'm not ashamed to say that I had real tears when experiencing her pain, which was palpable. She is now in a place where she has to move on, but she doesn't want to whatsoever, and I certainly don't blame her. Her scars run deep, and nothing will ever remove them, and now I'm ready to cry again. Gin comes across a man, Roman, who has his own set of scars with past tragedies of his own. Man, the angst levels are suffocating, and yet, I didn't take one break because I NEEDED to know how it all panned out. These two definitely has their work cut out for them, but work they did, and Ms. Owen did a bang up job making sure it was realistic, nothing moving too fast which made the feels all the more intense. There were even some hilarious moments which gave me a break from the heavy, not to mention a f-bomb worthy twist or two because they had secrets which don't make friends. Now, while there are trigger warnings (please heed them), it's time for everyone to hit those one click buttons, as I HIGHLY HIGHLY HIGHLY RECOMMEND TO ALL!
January 29, 2021
Beautiful story. Though I've never dealt with such crippling loss like Gin, the author does a great job in connecting us readers to her, and I sympathize, especially as a mother myself. I can only imagine how debilitating grief like that could be.
I loved that her friends stuck by her through her grief. True friends never give up on you, and sometimes it takes an event like this to show you who your true friends are.
Change can be slow. Nothing wrong with taking your time getting back to "normal", although it could never be like it was. Gin found her new normal.
I liked watching Gin's transformation. Going from thinking she's a terrible, worthless human into knowing she is the kind of person who is worthy of love and deserves to have everything. Her relationship with Roman kick started the healing process, but didn't define it. She used her own inner strength to move past the pain and mistakes of her past. She wasn't completely healed by the end of the book and I think that is awesome because healing is an ongoing process that doesn't happen overnight, or immediately after you meet "The One".
I loved that her friends stuck by her through her grief. True friends never give up on you, and sometimes it takes an event like this to show you who your true friends are.
Change can be slow. Nothing wrong with taking your time getting back to "normal", although it could never be like it was. Gin found her new normal.
I liked watching Gin's transformation. Going from thinking she's a terrible, worthless human into knowing she is the kind of person who is worthy of love and deserves to have everything. Her relationship with Roman kick started the healing process, but didn't define it. She used her own inner strength to move past the pain and mistakes of her past. She wasn't completely healed by the end of the book and I think that is awesome because healing is an ongoing process that doesn't happen overnight, or immediately after you meet "The One".
April 18, 2020
Gin's Tonic is Olivia Owen's debut novel..as a HongKonger, I feel proud of her!
One of the main reasons I wanted to read this book was because heroine was a Asian woman, and Olivia surprised me with chapter 1 as the story was about a thirty-something widow instead of a youngster..
I liked the writing style..
One of the main reasons I wanted to read this book was because heroine was a Asian woman, and Olivia surprised me with chapter 1 as the story was about a thirty-something widow instead of a youngster..
I liked the writing style..
April 22, 2020
I came away from this book excited by the new talent that is Olivia Owen. This was a strong debut with plenty of heart and soul.
Gin is running from her past in an attempt to get her present back on track after a terrible tragedy. Her journey brings her Jasper: a small town where everyone knows everyone.Once she arrives the town is reluctant to let leave, drawing her into the community. Gin carries her scars on the inside, believing she doesn't deserve to be happy again, blaming herself for past events.
Roman carries his scars on the outside but he is not broken. He has a strength and confidence that Gin draws upon on her own healing journey. He is the strong, silent and protective type, exactly what Gin needs as trouble is never far away.
I really enjoyed the emotional journey that these went on and this was balanced perfectly against the tension of the events taking place around them. I am looking forward to seeing what this author brings us next.
***Reviewed for LBM Book Blog***
Gin is running from her past in an attempt to get her present back on track after a terrible tragedy. Her journey brings her Jasper: a small town where everyone knows everyone.Once she arrives the town is reluctant to let leave, drawing her into the community. Gin carries her scars on the inside, believing she doesn't deserve to be happy again, blaming herself for past events.
Roman carries his scars on the outside but he is not broken. He has a strength and confidence that Gin draws upon on her own healing journey. He is the strong, silent and protective type, exactly what Gin needs as trouble is never far away.
I really enjoyed the emotional journey that these went on and this was balanced perfectly against the tension of the events taking place around them. I am looking forward to seeing what this author brings us next.
***Reviewed for LBM Book Blog***
March 5, 2021
I would like to thank the author, BookGoSocial, with whom I have privileged access on Netgalley and the Netgalley site for allowing me to read this book.
I was immediately attracted by the beautiful cover of this book where you can see a young girl sitting on a balcony and you can see the water in the distance.
While reading this book, one asks oneself a lot of questions: what is the first thing to repair a broken heart or a broken mind?
We find Gin who seems to be lost, she must make a choice, remain faithful to the memories of the past or live for the future?
She will run away and meet Roman and fall in love, but their shared past will have tortured them, then brought them together and torn them apart until they both lose each other.
A book read in one go, so much so that I hung on to the story, so moving at certain passages, captivating, addictive, full of suspense and twists and turns with very endearing characters. Can't wait to discover other books by this author whose pen I love so addictive.
I was immediately attracted by the beautiful cover of this book where you can see a young girl sitting on a balcony and you can see the water in the distance.
While reading this book, one asks oneself a lot of questions: what is the first thing to repair a broken heart or a broken mind?
We find Gin who seems to be lost, she must make a choice, remain faithful to the memories of the past or live for the future?
She will run away and meet Roman and fall in love, but their shared past will have tortured them, then brought them together and torn them apart until they both lose each other.
A book read in one go, so much so that I hung on to the story, so moving at certain passages, captivating, addictive, full of suspense and twists and turns with very endearing characters. Can't wait to discover other books by this author whose pen I love so addictive.
July 15, 2020
Holy emotional rollercoaster! Well done Ms. Owens. I really enjoyed Gin and Roman's story. Although this was far from your typical romance where girl meets boy, they both have some baggage, but work through it and live happily ever after. Gin has been living, or rather existing, in a nightmare, and Roman had gone through his own nightmare several years prior. Gin stumbles into Roman's path by pure happenstance (or maybe fate?) and lands in the small town of Jasper. In Jasper, and with Roman, Gin finally looks inside herself and seeks external help as well. She begins the path to healing both for herself and for Roman. With time she is able to make amends with Roman and resume their journey together, and what a journey it has been thus far! I cannot wait to see more from this author in the future.
Disclaimer: I received a free ARC of this book and am voluntarily leaving an honest review.
Disclaimer: I received a free ARC of this book and am voluntarily leaving an honest review.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
February 21, 2021
Someone trying to be no one
What a beautiful debut book by Ms. Owen. Her words truly emitted a raw and emotional story of grief and recovery. The writing and the story are beautiful. You find yourself accompanying Gin on her road to recovery. The writing and the story are so beautiful you forget this is a debut novel and not by a seasoned writer.
Gin is a strong woman even through her grief. You'll love that her healing was all her own and not a savior coming to heal her. There are many real feelings in this book: grief, survivor's guilt, regret, insecurity, rage, indifference, fear, love and more.
I received a free copy of this book and I voluntarily reviewed it.
What a beautiful debut book by Ms. Owen. Her words truly emitted a raw and emotional story of grief and recovery. The writing and the story are beautiful. You find yourself accompanying Gin on her road to recovery. The writing and the story are so beautiful you forget this is a debut novel and not by a seasoned writer.
Gin is a strong woman even through her grief. You'll love that her healing was all her own and not a savior coming to heal her. There are many real feelings in this book: grief, survivor's guilt, regret, insecurity, rage, indifference, fear, love and more.
I received a free copy of this book and I voluntarily reviewed it.
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