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Haven #1
Haven: A Modern Snow White Retelling
Audrey Aster wants nothing more than a peaceful summer retreat in the sleepy Southern town of Haven before rushing off to Harvard. The daughter of a billionaire financial tycoon, Audrey's Wall Street domination has been planned since her birth. She needs to survive a trying family celebration and a handsome, yet infuriating personal handler before she can call herself free. A series of unfolding events exposes her to new friends, dangerous enemies, and a fresh approach to living her life. Along the way, Audrey must experience new tests, old family secrets, and a dark betrayal. In this emotionally charged tale about a young woman's journey towards the truth, Audrey learns sometimes you have to lose everything to find who you truly are and where you belong.
Welcome to Haven...
Welcome to Haven...
373 pages, Kindle Edition
Published June 28, 2020
5 people are currently reading
57 people want to read
About the author
J.D. Worth
3 books40 followersJ. D. Worth writes suspenseful romance novels that portrays strong heroines and hot alphas who can't get enough of their sexy leading ladies. J. D.'s pages are filled with witty banter, emotional depth, and clever twists.
When not writing or reading romances, you'll find J. D. in her art studio with her fingers covered in paint and her workspace filled with mixed media art supplies.
J. D. Worth resides in New England with her husband, her son, a joyful yellow lab, a goofy Ragdoll cat, and a scrappy little gray cat who refuses to keep her feet warm at night.
Visit J. D. Worth's Amazon Page
https://www.amazon.com/J-D-Worth/e/B0...
Follow J. D. Worth on Instagram
https://www.instagram.com/worthromance/
The Haven Series
Haven (Haven Series1)
Harbor (Haven Series 2)
Hearth (Haven Series 3) Coming Spring 2021.
When not writing or reading romances, you'll find J. D. in her art studio with her fingers covered in paint and her workspace filled with mixed media art supplies.
J. D. Worth resides in New England with her husband, her son, a joyful yellow lab, a goofy Ragdoll cat, and a scrappy little gray cat who refuses to keep her feet warm at night.
Visit J. D. Worth's Amazon Page
https://www.amazon.com/J-D-Worth/e/B0...
Follow J. D. Worth on Instagram
https://www.instagram.com/worthromance/
The Haven Series
Haven (Haven Series1)
Harbor (Haven Series 2)
Hearth (Haven Series 3) Coming Spring 2021.
Ratings & Reviews
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 61 reviews
October 30, 2020
Easy 5 stars.
Haven was such a pleasant surprise, y’all. Summer beach romances typically aren’t my thing, but I couldn’t put this book down. I stayed up late too many nights and night after night, I chose Haven over my SJM reread...if you know me at all, you know this says A LOT.
I’m not even sure I could tell you my favorite thing about Haven. Was it the steamy, swoon-worthy romance? Maybe. Was it the special, once-in-a-lifetime sort of friendships? Possibly. Or is it the beautiful journey of self discovery that Audrey finds herself on? There’s a good chance. But don’t make me choose. When you read this (because you NEED to), circle back here and tell me what you loved the most. I bet you’ll have a hard time deciding, too.
I can’t choose a favorite quote, so I’ll leave you with a few more. There were so many quotes that either hit me in the feels or spoke to me!
“We do what we have to so we can survive in our situations. Sometimes those decisions are tough to swallow.”
“Sometimes, we lose things that are important only to gain ’em back in a different way.”
“Mace is as close of a chance I’ll get to living on the edge. When he’s around, I can’t help but fly close to the flickering flame, even if I’m going to burn in the end.”
“Love was never in the game plan. Do I really want something I can’t afford to have?”
Haven was such a pleasant surprise, y’all. Summer beach romances typically aren’t my thing, but I couldn’t put this book down. I stayed up late too many nights and night after night, I chose Haven over my SJM reread...if you know me at all, you know this says A LOT.
I’m not even sure I could tell you my favorite thing about Haven. Was it the steamy, swoon-worthy romance? Maybe. Was it the special, once-in-a-lifetime sort of friendships? Possibly. Or is it the beautiful journey of self discovery that Audrey finds herself on? There’s a good chance. But don’t make me choose. When you read this (because you NEED to), circle back here and tell me what you loved the most. I bet you’ll have a hard time deciding, too.
I can’t choose a favorite quote, so I’ll leave you with a few more. There were so many quotes that either hit me in the feels or spoke to me!
“We do what we have to so we can survive in our situations. Sometimes those decisions are tough to swallow.”
“Sometimes, we lose things that are important only to gain ’em back in a different way.”
“Mace is as close of a chance I’ll get to living on the edge. When he’s around, I can’t help but fly close to the flickering flame, even if I’m going to burn in the end.”
June 27, 2020
OMG...WHAT HAPPENS TO MACE!!!!Ok..now composed lol..
Way to leave a girl hanging on a major cliffhanger! I ABSOLUTELY LOVED THIS BOOK! Mace, Audrey and the whole gang! Simply fantastic characters! You've built an incredible plot with suspense that keeps a reader guessing what's going to happen next! Not to mention a fantastic spin on on the snow white fable! I enjoyed Audrey's growth as a character. Naive and sheltered she begins to spread her wings toward what I hope will be a force to be reckoned with. Mace as a hero although secretive, is the strong alpha type I enjoy in stories. No matter how hot/cold he is, he is putting Audrey first before his own needs. As for the rest of the crew..I loved all the characters. I still have so many questions about Ashley's Wakefield side, what devious plans William and Georgina have, what Lilith has up her sleeve, and FLIPPIN Anton! Seriously AWESOME BOOK! I have a total book hangover 😩 now! Can't wait to see what you have in store for us with the rest of this series!
Way to leave a girl hanging on a major cliffhanger! I ABSOLUTELY LOVED THIS BOOK! Mace, Audrey and the whole gang! Simply fantastic characters! You've built an incredible plot with suspense that keeps a reader guessing what's going to happen next! Not to mention a fantastic spin on on the snow white fable! I enjoyed Audrey's growth as a character. Naive and sheltered she begins to spread her wings toward what I hope will be a force to be reckoned with. Mace as a hero although secretive, is the strong alpha type I enjoy in stories. No matter how hot/cold he is, he is putting Audrey first before his own needs. As for the rest of the crew..I loved all the characters. I still have so many questions about Ashley's Wakefield side, what devious plans William and Georgina have, what Lilith has up her sleeve, and FLIPPIN Anton! Seriously AWESOME BOOK! I have a total book hangover 😩 now! Can't wait to see what you have in store for us with the rest of this series!
September 9, 2021
Haven is a wonderful escape into a charming beach town and the perfect summer read! This book has captivating characters that draw you into an intriguing story. I thoroughly enjoyed reading this book and falling in love with the town and characters. I especially enjoyed many of the rich descriptive elements. I felt like I was in Haven myself! I look forward to the next in the series while I wonder what will happen next.
July 1, 2020
Haven – by J. D. Worth
J. D.. Worth has written a modern day fairy tale in which her heroine Audrey Aster lives a life that not many of us could relate to. Audrey is pretty girl, only child to a family whose wealth mirrors the wealth and heritage of America’s oldest families. Her life is set out for her. Graduate high school with the best marks, then over the summer get her traders certificate then off to Harvard. She will take over the family business when it’s her time.
She is willing to tell you how she has almost raised herself since losing her mother to cancer, how her father is about to remarry someone that Audrey could care less about and she can give you all sorts of secrets about how to work around her grandmother Lilith Aster, to make your life a bit easier.
The thing she hides from her family is the reason why she wants to spend time in Haven this summer, she wants to get closer to the memories of her mother, to try and find out about her mother and her grandparents the Wakefield’s. She knows what her path is going to be, but is that the path she wants to take? Does she want the peace and memories of her grandparents and mother that Haven can give her? Once her time in Haven is over will she really want to go to Boston and go to Harvard?
She has spent so much time alone that what she needs are friends and who better to become friends with than the people who helped her mother rebuild her home before she passed away. Who better to tell her stories about her mother growing up in Haven and the things her grandfather and grandmother gave back to the community.
While Audrey stays in the cottage that her mother deeded to her upon her death, Audrey’s new friends Mace, Cal, Payton, Violet, Jax, Trent and Martin (Cal’s father) are all able to help her feel closer to her mother buy telling her stories about how the cabin was rebuilt and the love and care her mother put into redoing the cabin. Martin is able to give her lots of information about her Wakefield grandparents and all they did for the community.
But there are mysteries, Audrey received a post card before going to North Carolina and she doesn’t know who sent it, Mace is keeping his own secrets and as she continues to grow closer to her friends there is a change in her. Can that make her reconsider having to go back to the life in the New York? Can she willingly make that change? When Mace needs help can she actually help him or is she a pawn in a chess game?
As you read through the story, you can start to see a comparison to the old fairy tale and see where in this story the Princess might be the pawn that everyone is playing. Looking forward to Book 2 of the Haven series, Harbor, which I hope will become a safe place for Audrey.
J. D.. Worth has written a modern day fairy tale in which her heroine Audrey Aster lives a life that not many of us could relate to. Audrey is pretty girl, only child to a family whose wealth mirrors the wealth and heritage of America’s oldest families. Her life is set out for her. Graduate high school with the best marks, then over the summer get her traders certificate then off to Harvard. She will take over the family business when it’s her time.
She is willing to tell you how she has almost raised herself since losing her mother to cancer, how her father is about to remarry someone that Audrey could care less about and she can give you all sorts of secrets about how to work around her grandmother Lilith Aster, to make your life a bit easier.
The thing she hides from her family is the reason why she wants to spend time in Haven this summer, she wants to get closer to the memories of her mother, to try and find out about her mother and her grandparents the Wakefield’s. She knows what her path is going to be, but is that the path she wants to take? Does she want the peace and memories of her grandparents and mother that Haven can give her? Once her time in Haven is over will she really want to go to Boston and go to Harvard?
She has spent so much time alone that what she needs are friends and who better to become friends with than the people who helped her mother rebuild her home before she passed away. Who better to tell her stories about her mother growing up in Haven and the things her grandfather and grandmother gave back to the community.
While Audrey stays in the cottage that her mother deeded to her upon her death, Audrey’s new friends Mace, Cal, Payton, Violet, Jax, Trent and Martin (Cal’s father) are all able to help her feel closer to her mother buy telling her stories about how the cabin was rebuilt and the love and care her mother put into redoing the cabin. Martin is able to give her lots of information about her Wakefield grandparents and all they did for the community.
But there are mysteries, Audrey received a post card before going to North Carolina and she doesn’t know who sent it, Mace is keeping his own secrets and as she continues to grow closer to her friends there is a change in her. Can that make her reconsider having to go back to the life in the New York? Can she willingly make that change? When Mace needs help can she actually help him or is she a pawn in a chess game?
As you read through the story, you can start to see a comparison to the old fairy tale and see where in this story the Princess might be the pawn that everyone is playing. Looking forward to Book 2 of the Haven series, Harbor, which I hope will become a safe place for Audrey.
July 1, 2020
J.D. Worth's Haven, the first in the series, is a rollicking ride of witty banter, smoldering romance, and some very hot sex. The story follows Audrey, who finds herself completely out of her element along the shores of North Carolina, where she meets seven friends who welcome her with open arms and make certain she doesn't return to New York City without some very essential life experience, including as much time as possible with the elusive Green Eyes. A contemporary retelling of a classic fairy tale, Worth infuses the plot with loads of intrigue, spicy dialogue, and show down you couldn't see coming from a mile away. Haven is your essential summer read.
June 15, 2020
I'm ready to move to Haven!
Get ready for a ride. I honestly laughed out loud and she'd a few years. Audrey is a princess without a clue, but she's willing to have her eyes opened. Coming of age can be hard and truth is bitter. But having friends and a hot guy does help sweeten the sour. Mace is a real swoon-worthy guy, hot and cold and delicious. Read it slow and savor every piece…. Then pack your bags… I'm moving to Haven.
Get ready for a ride. I honestly laughed out loud and she'd a few years. Audrey is a princess without a clue, but she's willing to have her eyes opened. Coming of age can be hard and truth is bitter. But having friends and a hot guy does help sweeten the sour. Mace is a real swoon-worthy guy, hot and cold and delicious. Read it slow and savor every piece…. Then pack your bags… I'm moving to Haven.
September 13, 2020
This book has turned out to be a real gem. The story has me so hooked that after I just published my review, I’m going to start the next book.
Oh! My💔for Audrey. She belongs to one of the richest families in NY, she has lived surrounded by luxury all her life, but without love, al least since her mother died.
The book begins when Audrey travels to North Carolina for her father’s wedding. Her father is cold and calculating, the only thing that matters to him is the business. Her grandmother Lilith is a heartless harpy who does nothing but control Audrey’s life, she even tells her who has to date. For the wedding he pairs her with a guy who is about to rape Audrey, no less. Her new stepmother is a real bitch who only seeks to throw her out of NY and her life there with the excuse that she cannot bear the stress that Aubrey causes her, especially now, since she is expecting a child.
Audrey meets Mace at the wedding, who is the one who saves her from her attacker, and the rest of the crew: Payton, Cal, Violet,Jax.
When her father goes on honeymoon he informs her that her room is being remodeled into a nursery, so she advises her to stay in the cottage her mother left her in Haven.
Without knowing it, Aubrey will find in Haven the perfect place to escape from her suffocating life and where, with the crew she will I’ve incredible experiences.
Her relationship with Mace is super 🔥🔥🔥🔥, incredibly intense and it will lead to dealing with Anton, a man with toes to the Russian mafia.
The book ends with a cliffhanger that will leave you wanting more.
“You rode on my bike like you owned her.” He cups my ass, pulling me up hard against him. I gasp when his hungry mouth takes mine, owning me. We pull apart, trading looks of astonishment. The intensity of our physical attraction takes us by surprise. “Time for me to buy you another drink, Princess.” “Yes,” I reply, neither of us moves from our spots. “If I kiss you again, we’re not gonna make it back to the bonfire.” His mouth brushes up my neck. A throaty moan slips between my lips. “No, we won’t.” I breathe out as he cups my face with his large hands. His lips ghost over mine, saying, “You ever feel this heat before with another man?” “No.”
Mace shifts close to me, his rough lips almost touch mine. “What am I supposed to do ’bout you?” Mace asks. He locks his passionate and possessive lips upon mine. Our lips mold into perfection. Letting out a regrettable groan, he eases back. “One night wouldn’t do it for me. You got me, Princess?”
“How could I ever think a taste of you would be enough?” “Because it’s not. One night of you wouldn’t do me justice either.” Working my inner muscles around his hardness, my eyes hood with longing as I reach a new plateau of pleasure. Looking down at our close connection, he presses me harder into the bed. “Damn, I knew you’d feel this good wrapped around me.”
The next time you look into the mirror, remember my lips touched you last.”“All I want now is to feel your lips on my body.” “Princess, you melt like chocolate under my touch. If I have my way, you’ll be melting all day, every day.”
“No, every time you see that white ink, you’re gonna ache for me to paint you white. You’re mine, Princess. Every sexy gasp, every sweet agonizing moan, and every fuckin’ orgasm you have will be ’cause of me.”
Mace told me he would follow me back if he could. I have to keep reminding myself this is temporary, including the ease of settling into the simple existence that belonged to my mother’s family. I’m on borrowed time, living a life not meant for me. I can’t bear to destroy anyone’s life here. Life has carved out a complicated future for me, and I’m destined to run an empire one day. The first woman on Wall Street to do so, and I’m planning to rewrite all the fucking rules.
“Promise me no matter what you’ll find your own way. There will come a day when I’m not gonna be ’round you. I gotta know you’ll still fight for your future. Even at your weakest point, you have to be strong. You may not like the prospects, but that’s life.” I furrow my brows. Mace’s behavior is striking, almost as if he’s ending things with me. “Mace…?”“Shh … just promise me.” “I have my own plans. I’ve come this far not to follow through. I’ve learned so much from you this summer. I need to write my own playbook.” He lets out a deep breath. “Good. Remember that when life gets hard. Your moral compass is just fine, Princess.” He gives me a quick peck before jogging out to his Jeep. A coil wrenches within me as I watch him take off without making eye contact with me. I’ve never seen Mace teetering on edge like this. His words hinted that he’s going away, and I won’t see him again before I leave.
Oh! My💔for Audrey. She belongs to one of the richest families in NY, she has lived surrounded by luxury all her life, but without love, al least since her mother died.
The book begins when Audrey travels to North Carolina for her father’s wedding. Her father is cold and calculating, the only thing that matters to him is the business. Her grandmother Lilith is a heartless harpy who does nothing but control Audrey’s life, she even tells her who has to date. For the wedding he pairs her with a guy who is about to rape Audrey, no less. Her new stepmother is a real bitch who only seeks to throw her out of NY and her life there with the excuse that she cannot bear the stress that Aubrey causes her, especially now, since she is expecting a child.
Audrey meets Mace at the wedding, who is the one who saves her from her attacker, and the rest of the crew: Payton, Cal, Violet,Jax.
When her father goes on honeymoon he informs her that her room is being remodeled into a nursery, so she advises her to stay in the cottage her mother left her in Haven.
Without knowing it, Aubrey will find in Haven the perfect place to escape from her suffocating life and where, with the crew she will I’ve incredible experiences.
Her relationship with Mace is super 🔥🔥🔥🔥, incredibly intense and it will lead to dealing with Anton, a man with toes to the Russian mafia.
The book ends with a cliffhanger that will leave you wanting more.
“You rode on my bike like you owned her.” He cups my ass, pulling me up hard against him. I gasp when his hungry mouth takes mine, owning me. We pull apart, trading looks of astonishment. The intensity of our physical attraction takes us by surprise. “Time for me to buy you another drink, Princess.” “Yes,” I reply, neither of us moves from our spots. “If I kiss you again, we’re not gonna make it back to the bonfire.” His mouth brushes up my neck. A throaty moan slips between my lips. “No, we won’t.” I breathe out as he cups my face with his large hands. His lips ghost over mine, saying, “You ever feel this heat before with another man?” “No.”
Mace shifts close to me, his rough lips almost touch mine. “What am I supposed to do ’bout you?” Mace asks. He locks his passionate and possessive lips upon mine. Our lips mold into perfection. Letting out a regrettable groan, he eases back. “One night wouldn’t do it for me. You got me, Princess?”
“How could I ever think a taste of you would be enough?” “Because it’s not. One night of you wouldn’t do me justice either.” Working my inner muscles around his hardness, my eyes hood with longing as I reach a new plateau of pleasure. Looking down at our close connection, he presses me harder into the bed. “Damn, I knew you’d feel this good wrapped around me.”
The next time you look into the mirror, remember my lips touched you last.”“All I want now is to feel your lips on my body.” “Princess, you melt like chocolate under my touch. If I have my way, you’ll be melting all day, every day.”
“No, every time you see that white ink, you’re gonna ache for me to paint you white. You’re mine, Princess. Every sexy gasp, every sweet agonizing moan, and every fuckin’ orgasm you have will be ’cause of me.”
Mace told me he would follow me back if he could. I have to keep reminding myself this is temporary, including the ease of settling into the simple existence that belonged to my mother’s family. I’m on borrowed time, living a life not meant for me. I can’t bear to destroy anyone’s life here. Life has carved out a complicated future for me, and I’m destined to run an empire one day. The first woman on Wall Street to do so, and I’m planning to rewrite all the fucking rules.
“Promise me no matter what you’ll find your own way. There will come a day when I’m not gonna be ’round you. I gotta know you’ll still fight for your future. Even at your weakest point, you have to be strong. You may not like the prospects, but that’s life.” I furrow my brows. Mace’s behavior is striking, almost as if he’s ending things with me. “Mace…?”“Shh … just promise me.” “I have my own plans. I’ve come this far not to follow through. I’ve learned so much from you this summer. I need to write my own playbook.” He lets out a deep breath. “Good. Remember that when life gets hard. Your moral compass is just fine, Princess.” He gives me a quick peck before jogging out to his Jeep. A coil wrenches within me as I watch him take off without making eye contact with me. I’ve never seen Mace teetering on edge like this. His words hinted that he’s going away, and I won’t see him again before I leave.
July 30, 2020
Great Read
Great story base. Love the friendships formed. Im invested in these characters cant wait to read the next story. Love it :)
Great story base. Love the friendships formed. Im invested in these characters cant wait to read the next story. Love it :)
July 14, 2020
I could not put this enchanting book down!
I love fairy tale retellings and was excited when I stumbled upon this gem. The modern twist is fresh and exciting while not over doing the original Snow White tale. The balance is just right and oh so steamy too. Is it bad that I want the princess to end up with the southern charmer Doc?
The endearing princess in the story is a wealthy young woman named Audrey. She’s sweet, sassy, and naïve as she stumbles to find her way around the coastal country town of Haven. She bumps into a handsome man she calls Green Eyes who challenges her at every corner. I loved their sexy and witty banter, which made me laugh out loud all night long. Audrey is also dealing with grief she stuffed deep down and these scenes made me weepy as well. Audrey makes friends with a close knit group of town folks who each resembles one of the dwarfs, another charming aspect of the story, as they warmly welcome her to their crew.
Audrey must face many obstacles like her powerful and controlling family, a crazy stalker, a local moody sheriff who is itching to take down her shifty family, and falling in love for the first time ever. I don’t wish to give too much away, but the stakes keep rising for Audrey as the summer rolls on until she’s forced to make decisions that may change the rest of her life. My heart beat against my chest so hard during the entire last chapter. Oh my gosh, that ending! I didn’t see any of this coming, which is what I love in a well-written story. This book is smart and witty and you’ll feel everything Audrey is experiencing on her journey to find where she belongs. I can’t wait to find out what happens in the next book in the series Harbor!
I love fairy tale retellings and was excited when I stumbled upon this gem. The modern twist is fresh and exciting while not over doing the original Snow White tale. The balance is just right and oh so steamy too. Is it bad that I want the princess to end up with the southern charmer Doc?
The endearing princess in the story is a wealthy young woman named Audrey. She’s sweet, sassy, and naïve as she stumbles to find her way around the coastal country town of Haven. She bumps into a handsome man she calls Green Eyes who challenges her at every corner. I loved their sexy and witty banter, which made me laugh out loud all night long. Audrey is also dealing with grief she stuffed deep down and these scenes made me weepy as well. Audrey makes friends with a close knit group of town folks who each resembles one of the dwarfs, another charming aspect of the story, as they warmly welcome her to their crew.
Audrey must face many obstacles like her powerful and controlling family, a crazy stalker, a local moody sheriff who is itching to take down her shifty family, and falling in love for the first time ever. I don’t wish to give too much away, but the stakes keep rising for Audrey as the summer rolls on until she’s forced to make decisions that may change the rest of her life. My heart beat against my chest so hard during the entire last chapter. Oh my gosh, that ending! I didn’t see any of this coming, which is what I love in a well-written story. This book is smart and witty and you’ll feel everything Audrey is experiencing on her journey to find where she belongs. I can’t wait to find out what happens in the next book in the series Harbor!
June 23, 2020
What happens when your family is the richest family on Wallstreet? Their pockets run deeper than anything you could ever imagine. Audrey Aster is still picking up the pieces from her mother's passing. She traveled from New York to North Carolina to make it to her Fathers and upcoming step-mother's nuptials. She makes it to the Aster Resort early in the morning and runs into green eyes, who captivates her right away. He's working security for the family while they're at the resort.
Audrey is 18 and she's always been told what to do and how her life should go. She's not allowed to make her own decisions. She's never really strayed from what her family expects from her, she's stayed Inline and works hard.
Green Eyes (Mace) is also captivated by the beauty that walks through the door. He has a hard time staying away. Mace has his own path he needs to stick to because of his situation. Mace has a tight group of friends more like a family that takes to Audrey. Audrey's mom has roots in North Carolina and everyone seems to know about her mother and her past. Can Audrey spread her wings or is she enslaved to a life that she doesn't want?
Audrey is 18 and she's always been told what to do and how her life should go. She's not allowed to make her own decisions. She's never really strayed from what her family expects from her, she's stayed Inline and works hard.
Green Eyes (Mace) is also captivated by the beauty that walks through the door. He has a hard time staying away. Mace has his own path he needs to stick to because of his situation. Mace has a tight group of friends more like a family that takes to Audrey. Audrey's mom has roots in North Carolina and everyone seems to know about her mother and her past. Can Audrey spread her wings or is she enslaved to a life that she doesn't want?
September 1, 2020
If you’re looking for a romance novel with intricately woven subplots, Haven is it. I was drawn in immediately with Audrey’s narrative. She’s a mature college student who is destined to rule Wall Street—that is, if her newly married father has his way. Attending his wedding in Haven, Audrey is introduced to a crew of people who become her tight-knit friends. The notion is strange for someone who grew up in a rigid, predestined environment with adult expectations thrust upon her. Quickly falling for the gorgeous Mace, Audrey explores her feelings and emotions, allowing herself the summer to let her hair down. Worth has delivered the wittiest banter I’ve ever come across, steamy romance, mystery and intrigue, and painted a vivid picture of where I’d like to vacation next. Her writing style lulled the reader into a false sense of security with the characters, only to have key points in the mystery resurface and leave you with a desire and longing to never put the book down. I cannot wait for the follow up, Harbor.
June 29, 2020
Haven had me hooked from the start. I loved the fast-paced witty banter between all the characters specially Audrey and Mace. Definitely had me wanting to go to the beach since the group spends a lot of their time lounging at the beach or having bonfires. I laughed, swooned, bit my lip at the steamy parts, and got angry at some of the characters (Chaz, Lilith, William especially). There's unanswered questions and a big cliff hanger at the end so I can't wait to get my hands on the next 2 books as they come out.
June 29, 2020
I received an arc of this book and this review is my honest opinion. This is a very unique retelling of the classic Snow White. That is one of my favorite genres so I knew I should check into this immediately! It is very different and unexpected and if you like retellings then you definitely need to add this to your to be read list.
July 24, 2020
I could not put this book down until I had read the whole thing!! This book has everything, a “rich princess” who does not have a clue about real life, (but she is so sweet), a sexy hero who protects her and shows her the real world, intrigue, mystery, drama, you name this book has it. I’m trying not to spoil anything but this is a must read book.
August 1, 2020
Love the book! Mace is my favorite character so far, it has enough action to keep me interested all-day! I love how there is some personal conflicts in day to day life. Without giving to much away it has the emotional struggles of becoming an adult, gangsters, hardship of loss and more. There has been many things relatable to events that would happen in real life.
August 17, 2020
A story that keeps you guessing in the most tantalizing way possible! The perfect blend of subtle suspense that lingers in the back of your mind as you watch a romantic love story unfold. What's not to love?
JD Worth has a way with words that will keep you hooked and guessing with each turn of a page.
JD Worth has a way with words that will keep you hooked and guessing with each turn of a page.
August 9, 2020
This book has a strong heroine and an enticing "Green Eyes" of an alpha. The Snow White retelling pulls you in from the beginning and doesn't let go. So if you enjoy modern retellings for adults, you'll love this!
June 15, 2020
Great book excellent read and definitely full of spice. The story line is amazing and very well written 👌
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
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August 25, 2020Snow-White Re-telling! Yay!
September 10, 2021
There is vibrancy in the details. The author makes the story come alive. I really developed a connection with the characters. It is so descriptive conjuring sights, sounds, scents, evoking all my senses! I develop a clear picture in my mind as the story unfolds. The author truly transports me to Haven with vivid detail.
The main character, Audrey, has lived a sheltered life, immersed in money, business and all the finest things. Her fathers’ expectations are for young Audrey to eventually take control of the family’s empire. Her evil, newly married stepmother found a way to squeeze Audrey out of their personal lives, leaving her to spend the summer in Haven. It is so fun to see her experience what she has been missing out-on in life.
In Haven, Audrey discovers so many fond memories of her mother there, this I can relate to! Newly formed friendships soon develop. There is a mysteriously elusive, and ever-so handsome Mace in the picture. His attraction to Audrey promises intensity and fireworks! Yet there are evil-doers that threaten their budding romance and the newfound happiness she has found in Haven.
This book really kept me on my toes wondering what charming scene would unfold next. At the end of the book, in the “About the Author” section, it states the author “always had a paintbrush or pen in her hand” (Worth, 2020) I can certainly testify that she truly painted a masterpiece here.
References:
Worth, J. D. (2020b). Haven: A Modern Snow White Retelling (Haven Series 1). Kindle Edition, (p. 401).
The main character, Audrey, has lived a sheltered life, immersed in money, business and all the finest things. Her fathers’ expectations are for young Audrey to eventually take control of the family’s empire. Her evil, newly married stepmother found a way to squeeze Audrey out of their personal lives, leaving her to spend the summer in Haven. It is so fun to see her experience what she has been missing out-on in life.
In Haven, Audrey discovers so many fond memories of her mother there, this I can relate to! Newly formed friendships soon develop. There is a mysteriously elusive, and ever-so handsome Mace in the picture. His attraction to Audrey promises intensity and fireworks! Yet there are evil-doers that threaten their budding romance and the newfound happiness she has found in Haven.
This book really kept me on my toes wondering what charming scene would unfold next. At the end of the book, in the “About the Author” section, it states the author “always had a paintbrush or pen in her hand” (Worth, 2020) I can certainly testify that she truly painted a masterpiece here.
References:
Worth, J. D. (2020b). Haven: A Modern Snow White Retelling (Haven Series 1). Kindle Edition, (p. 401).
May 12, 2021
A highly enjoyable read.
I came across this author on Instagram and, having recently read a different Snow White retelling, I was fascinated to read another one that was billed as such. I haven’t yet seen the full fairy-tale connection but, in Haven, I have only read the first part … and I was most impressed.
Audrey, the leading character, seems trapped by the expectations of her family and their high-society world which she’s grown up with. She arrives at Haven for her father’s re-marriage, and begins to discover a new world of more normal people, friendships and love/lust. There is some wonderful characterization, with a great contrast between the fake and uncaring father and grandmother, versus the new down-to-earth friends she discovers. Audrey falls for the local swoon-worthy and erratic male, Mace, and much of the story then develops around how their dynamic evolves. Lots of witty dialogue, more than a little heat, and an intriguing plot which ends with a cliff hanger.
I came across this author on Instagram and, having recently read a different Snow White retelling, I was fascinated to read another one that was billed as such. I haven’t yet seen the full fairy-tale connection but, in Haven, I have only read the first part … and I was most impressed.
Audrey, the leading character, seems trapped by the expectations of her family and their high-society world which she’s grown up with. She arrives at Haven for her father’s re-marriage, and begins to discover a new world of more normal people, friendships and love/lust. There is some wonderful characterization, with a great contrast between the fake and uncaring father and grandmother, versus the new down-to-earth friends she discovers. Audrey falls for the local swoon-worthy and erratic male, Mace, and much of the story then develops around how their dynamic evolves. Lots of witty dialogue, more than a little heat, and an intriguing plot which ends with a cliff hanger.
July 6, 2021
A Thrilling and Endearing Read!
Haven was the first romance novel that I’ve read or listened to in a long time, but boy did I enjoy the read! I have Harbor loaded up on my Kindle ready to go. I loved the fast-moving, whip-smart dialogue that ripples through the pages of Haven. Audrey’s give-and-take with Mace in the beginning reminded me of the best of Elmore Leonard’s Out of Sight’s Karen Sisco and Jack Foley. Audrey’s ‘discovery’ of the community of Haven and the culture of the South was exquisitely crafted. Her grandmother and stepmother were despicable, and excellent contrasts to the goodness of the friends Audrey makes during the summer. I didn’t see the cliffhanger at the end coming and excited to see Audrey thrive and rise. I highly recommend Haven!
Haven was the first romance novel that I’ve read or listened to in a long time, but boy did I enjoy the read! I have Harbor loaded up on my Kindle ready to go. I loved the fast-moving, whip-smart dialogue that ripples through the pages of Haven. Audrey’s give-and-take with Mace in the beginning reminded me of the best of Elmore Leonard’s Out of Sight’s Karen Sisco and Jack Foley. Audrey’s ‘discovery’ of the community of Haven and the culture of the South was exquisitely crafted. Her grandmother and stepmother were despicable, and excellent contrasts to the goodness of the friends Audrey makes during the summer. I didn’t see the cliffhanger at the end coming and excited to see Audrey thrive and rise. I highly recommend Haven!
May 14, 2021
Haven is a story following an 18-year-old heiress to a Wall Street fortune and job. Overworked, controlled, mentally abused, and friendless, she stays in Haven, a town in North Carolina. She thinks she wants a relaxing time, but she wants so much more.
It was hard to put this book down during my reading times. Some of the issues in the book triggered my brain, but the story was well-told. Character development and plot were well-executed. One thing I love in series is a cliffhanger. Well, we have a couple!
I'm excited to read the rest of the series! Go, J.D. Worth!
It was hard to put this book down during my reading times. Some of the issues in the book triggered my brain, but the story was well-told. Character development and plot were well-executed. One thing I love in series is a cliffhanger. Well, we have a couple!
I'm excited to read the rest of the series! Go, J.D. Worth!
February 26, 2021
It took my breath away
I loved this heart throbbing book from beginning to end with Aubrey's wicked sarcasm and good humor to Mace’s from the beginning interest for Aubrey. It's a must read and tell all your friends about it on the way.
I loved this heart throbbing book from beginning to end with Aubrey's wicked sarcasm and good humor to Mace’s from the beginning interest for Aubrey. It's a must read and tell all your friends about it on the way.
August 19, 2021
Haven pulled me in and kept me to the very last word. Every time I thought I had my predictions of how the story would turn out something would change the direction it was heading. I loved how this became more than just a love story, but a mystery as well. I was left with unanswered questions and will definitely be back for the second installment in the series. Cannot wait to read Harbor next!
December 6, 2020
(Honest review for Voracious Readers in exchange for a digital copy of the book)
Perfect read for: filling up short breaks where you need a distraction or a dose of escapism (commutes, work breaks or in a waiting room for example)
I debated on what rating to give this book as it's enjoyable and has some smart writing choices but falls into a lot of romance/steamy novel tropes.
I really liked the chemistry between the main character(Audrey) and the love interest (Mace) but would then get distracted by seeing red flags in Mace's behavior, especially when reacting to being disappointed by something. I felt a certain scene at the start was gratuitous and only put there as a marker for how far the intimacy between the main couple would go.
I appreciated that since it was a retelling of a fairytale, it didn't include a lot of pop culture references, which would have been an easy thing to do considering the age of the majority of the characters. For me at least this meant that I could place the story in current times.
Now as for plot I really enjoyed the first two thirds of the story more than the final third where it seemed like elements were thrown in to create a conflict and the ending was confusing to me. I had to read over the last few pages a couple times to make sure I'd read a certain event correctly, which seemed to come out of left field. I'm guessing that will be a big part of the next book but it also felt like it would hinder the story for the next book, if that makes sense.
As said, in the first two thirds the plot is easier to follow and enjoyable. Some of the steamy scenes feel a bit samey when they start (lots of focus on the lips and hips) but then unfurl into blush-inducing moments when reading. There is a certain sentence about a tattoo that did leave me shocked, blushing and laughing all at once. I thought these scenes could have been longer, but as said, an event at the start marks how far the intimacy goes so fair enough.
The filler scenes are fun summer scenes that offer escapism to the reader as well (picturing spending a summer on a North Carolina coast while actually in a pandemic and staying home was a great mental vacation). I really liked the description of the locations; it was easy to imagine myself there and what the atmosphere was like.
I think my biggest qualm comes with the writing of the characters, where only the main couple and maybe Cal get their personalities rounded out and the rest are caricatures of themselves: evil stepmother is evil, distant father is distant, strict grandmother is strict, flamboyant stylist is flamboyant, horny friends are horny, douchey rich boy is douchey, etc. We don't really get to look behind the curtains at any of them, they kind of exist when needed for plot and not when not. I would have loved to have Violet transition into a closer friend as the story went along but there were no deep or touching conversations between them to allow for that. I was worried the main character was being set up at the start to be a stereotype as well but luckily that wasn't the case.
All in all it was an enjoyable enough read, but maybe wasn't totally my cup of tea. In a different setting (not pandemic times), I could see how I might have picked this up on a beach trip or weekend getaway with friends and passed it among ourselves to read one after the other.
Perfect read for: filling up short breaks where you need a distraction or a dose of escapism (commutes, work breaks or in a waiting room for example)
I debated on what rating to give this book as it's enjoyable and has some smart writing choices but falls into a lot of romance/steamy novel tropes.
I really liked the chemistry between the main character(Audrey) and the love interest (Mace) but would then get distracted by seeing red flags in Mace's behavior, especially when reacting to being disappointed by something. I felt a certain scene at the start was gratuitous and only put there as a marker for how far the intimacy between the main couple would go.
I appreciated that since it was a retelling of a fairytale, it didn't include a lot of pop culture references, which would have been an easy thing to do considering the age of the majority of the characters. For me at least this meant that I could place the story in current times.
Now as for plot I really enjoyed the first two thirds of the story more than the final third where it seemed like elements were thrown in to create a conflict and the ending was confusing to me. I had to read over the last few pages a couple times to make sure I'd read a certain event correctly, which seemed to come out of left field. I'm guessing that will be a big part of the next book but it also felt like it would hinder the story for the next book, if that makes sense.
As said, in the first two thirds the plot is easier to follow and enjoyable. Some of the steamy scenes feel a bit samey when they start (lots of focus on the lips and hips) but then unfurl into blush-inducing moments when reading. There is a certain sentence about a tattoo that did leave me shocked, blushing and laughing all at once. I thought these scenes could have been longer, but as said, an event at the start marks how far the intimacy goes so fair enough.
The filler scenes are fun summer scenes that offer escapism to the reader as well (picturing spending a summer on a North Carolina coast while actually in a pandemic and staying home was a great mental vacation). I really liked the description of the locations; it was easy to imagine myself there and what the atmosphere was like.
I think my biggest qualm comes with the writing of the characters, where only the main couple and maybe Cal get their personalities rounded out and the rest are caricatures of themselves: evil stepmother is evil, distant father is distant, strict grandmother is strict, flamboyant stylist is flamboyant, horny friends are horny, douchey rich boy is douchey, etc. We don't really get to look behind the curtains at any of them, they kind of exist when needed for plot and not when not. I would have loved to have Violet transition into a closer friend as the story went along but there were no deep or touching conversations between them to allow for that. I was worried the main character was being set up at the start to be a stereotype as well but luckily that wasn't the case.
All in all it was an enjoyable enough read, but maybe wasn't totally my cup of tea. In a different setting (not pandemic times), I could see how I might have picked this up on a beach trip or weekend getaway with friends and passed it among ourselves to read one after the other.
September 14, 2020
Haven has me hooked from the beginning. I love the ongoing mysteries within Haven. You think you know where the story is headed and then the author surprises you in the best way possible. Audrey is part of her dad's well managed Wall Street family. The Aster family plans to stay on top at any cost, which includes getting Audrey ready to become CEO as they restrict her every move. She finds herself in her mom's cabin on the N.C. shore for a long overdue break before college. Audrey is now for the first time able to make her own choices and to see what life really is in a small town. Meeting all the people that adored her mom and grandparents, she gets to become friends with the crew. Friends who have your back at all times. Audrey meets sexy Green Eyes, which turns her stay into a new adventure. Their playful and sexy banter is the best I've read! People go missing. The Russian mob shows up. And Audrey must deal with her evil grandmother. Haven ends with a such an unpredictable and suspenseful twist that I NEED Book 2 HARBOR NOW.
October 7, 2020
Other reviews have already covered plot and characters, so I’ll add a few other thoughts.
There are two main layers to J.D. Worth’s storytelling. On the surface is witty, fast-paced dialogue (somewhat reminiscent of hard-boiled detective novels) that carries much of the story; beneath is slower-paced narrative that Worth uses to create the atmosphere of Haven. Both layers work well to capture the vantage of a vastly wealthy 18-yr old New Yorker (Audrey) suddenly “out of place” in the South.
Several interwoven themes and adventurous subplots intensify the suspense as families clash over who controls Haven, who belongs there and who doesn’t. And through it all is a steamy, simmering romance that, like everything else, is always ready to boil over. Threaded throughout are emotionally-heavy themes—grief, loss, guilt, spite—that tie the story to other genres. One especially powerful scene occurs when Audrey dances with her father at his wedding, and what is said between them. But there also are a lot of laughs to be had throughout.
There were two things I wanted more of, the first being even more atmosphere. Worth shows she can set a richly-textured setting, but too often that comes at the beginning of chapters. I would’ve like to see Worth float above the action more often and show me more of the places her characters go. The second is wanting to see more character flaws in Audrey. Given how she was raised, she must have a demon or two, and I want to see them!
Readers who like slow-burn romance, topsy-turvy adventures through unfamiliar and mysterious places, and creeping suspense will love Haven. And…this is only the beginning!
There are two main layers to J.D. Worth’s storytelling. On the surface is witty, fast-paced dialogue (somewhat reminiscent of hard-boiled detective novels) that carries much of the story; beneath is slower-paced narrative that Worth uses to create the atmosphere of Haven. Both layers work well to capture the vantage of a vastly wealthy 18-yr old New Yorker (Audrey) suddenly “out of place” in the South.
Several interwoven themes and adventurous subplots intensify the suspense as families clash over who controls Haven, who belongs there and who doesn’t. And through it all is a steamy, simmering romance that, like everything else, is always ready to boil over. Threaded throughout are emotionally-heavy themes—grief, loss, guilt, spite—that tie the story to other genres. One especially powerful scene occurs when Audrey dances with her father at his wedding, and what is said between them. But there also are a lot of laughs to be had throughout.
There were two things I wanted more of, the first being even more atmosphere. Worth shows she can set a richly-textured setting, but too often that comes at the beginning of chapters. I would’ve like to see Worth float above the action more often and show me more of the places her characters go. The second is wanting to see more character flaws in Audrey. Given how she was raised, she must have a demon or two, and I want to see them!
Readers who like slow-burn romance, topsy-turvy adventures through unfamiliar and mysterious places, and creeping suspense will love Haven. And…this is only the beginning!
September 22, 2020
4 STARS!!!!
This is a very interestingly complicated book. It has so many secrets to it that it feels more like a mystery then romance.I loved this book and it had me in tears so many times.
This book revolves around Audrey Aster, who is going to inherit all of the Aster's inheritance. Asters and wakefields started business together but asters were the one who were more money minded while the Wakefields were the one who prioritised their family more. Audrey's mother was Wakefield and his father is a Aster.
Audrey has been brought up in a surrounding where money is everything and she loses her mother when she was a teenager to cancer. One of the things her mother left for her was a cottage at Haven. She visits haven to attend her father's second marriage and plans on staying at the cottage for the summer and there she experiences a life which is very new to her, where people love each ,other help each other, take care of each other without any selfish motive. And she meets Mace here in haven and they share a complicated relation .Their first meeting seemed weird but then as the story continues you understand everything. I loved the friendship the crew had and it makes you realise how much family, friendship, love should matter in life.
This book is very explanatory and at times that seemed a little unnecessary but otherwise the story is very good and the cliffhanger Oh My God I can't wait to see what happened to Mace. So eagerly waiting to read the next one.
*I received a ARC from the writer for honest reviews.
This is a very interestingly complicated book. It has so many secrets to it that it feels more like a mystery then romance.I loved this book and it had me in tears so many times.
This book revolves around Audrey Aster, who is going to inherit all of the Aster's inheritance. Asters and wakefields started business together but asters were the one who were more money minded while the Wakefields were the one who prioritised their family more. Audrey's mother was Wakefield and his father is a Aster.
Audrey has been brought up in a surrounding where money is everything and she loses her mother when she was a teenager to cancer. One of the things her mother left for her was a cottage at Haven. She visits haven to attend her father's second marriage and plans on staying at the cottage for the summer and there she experiences a life which is very new to her, where people love each ,other help each other, take care of each other without any selfish motive. And she meets Mace here in haven and they share a complicated relation .Their first meeting seemed weird but then as the story continues you understand everything. I loved the friendship the crew had and it makes you realise how much family, friendship, love should matter in life.
This book is very explanatory and at times that seemed a little unnecessary but otherwise the story is very good and the cliffhanger Oh My God I can't wait to see what happened to Mace. So eagerly waiting to read the next one.
*I received a ARC from the writer for honest reviews.
July 1, 2020
Haven is Magical!
Haven is an escape a magical place in the south that once you visit you’ll never want to leave. It’s Aubrey’s escape away from her controlling father and grandmother that have every detail of her life planned out for her and expect her to excel anything less is unacceptable given her name. However with the death of her mom and the outrageous wicked step mother she just gained she needs a break even if it’s just a small time. She needs to live for once in her life and not be monitored by everyone around her. She gets her wish to stay in Haven for a while and begins to see that she has never really enjoyed life. People in the South have a different value than those of the North. Those in Haven love one another and help each other they don’t care if you have money that holds no value to the friendship and relationships is the true currency around there. We meet Mace, Cal, Trent, Payton, and Violet who all help Aubrey to show her what friendship looks like and she learns that they are a valuable aspect of her life she doesn’t want to lose once she must return to New York and back to the life she’s always known.
There are twists and turns throughout the story that leave the reader wanting to learn more about those who reside in Haven. The ending makes us dying to know more of what will come from all the beloved characters. Overall the book is well done and I really want the next book now!!
Haven is an escape a magical place in the south that once you visit you’ll never want to leave. It’s Aubrey’s escape away from her controlling father and grandmother that have every detail of her life planned out for her and expect her to excel anything less is unacceptable given her name. However with the death of her mom and the outrageous wicked step mother she just gained she needs a break even if it’s just a small time. She needs to live for once in her life and not be monitored by everyone around her. She gets her wish to stay in Haven for a while and begins to see that she has never really enjoyed life. People in the South have a different value than those of the North. Those in Haven love one another and help each other they don’t care if you have money that holds no value to the friendship and relationships is the true currency around there. We meet Mace, Cal, Trent, Payton, and Violet who all help Aubrey to show her what friendship looks like and she learns that they are a valuable aspect of her life she doesn’t want to lose once she must return to New York and back to the life she’s always known.
There are twists and turns throughout the story that leave the reader wanting to learn more about those who reside in Haven. The ending makes us dying to know more of what will come from all the beloved characters. Overall the book is well done and I really want the next book now!!
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