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Beautiful Potential
Every single time I tell myself I’m over him, he finds me and proves me wrong.
I met Dr. Finn Banner on the worst day of my life...
The day you graduate to become a midwife shouldn’t end in heart wrenching tragedy.
But that’s how our story begins.
One year later, I ran into him again. Only this time, he saved my life.
Turns out my gorgeous savior and I now work together in the same hospital.
And he can be as sweet and charming as they come. When he’s not broody, short-tempered, and arrogant as hell.
Our attraction is palpable. Our desire too great to ignore.
And with every stolen glance, touch of my skin, and minute spent together, I need more.
But the dark secrets of his past are unchangeable, and I know I need to stay away.
There’s just one problem with that.
How do you stop wanting the man you’ve fallen for?
I met Dr. Finn Banner on the worst day of my life...
The day you graduate to become a midwife shouldn’t end in heart wrenching tragedy.
But that’s how our story begins.
One year later, I ran into him again. Only this time, he saved my life.
Turns out my gorgeous savior and I now work together in the same hospital.
And he can be as sweet and charming as they come. When he’s not broody, short-tempered, and arrogant as hell.
Our attraction is palpable. Our desire too great to ignore.
And with every stolen glance, touch of my skin, and minute spent together, I need more.
But the dark secrets of his past are unchangeable, and I know I need to stay away.
There’s just one problem with that.
How do you stop wanting the man you’ve fallen for?
Unknown Binding
First published February 6, 2018
126 people are currently reading
403 people want to read
About the author
J. Saman
56 books4,096 followersJ. Saman is a USA Today and Amazon top 10 bestselling author who writes sassy, swoony, and scorching contemporary romances. She is addicted to Diet Coke, sour candy, and indie rock. She swears way too much (especially after a glass of wine) and has a penchant for sarcasm (or so her husband and children like to tell her).
J. is an admitted lover of second chance romances, enemies to lovers, and the perfect amount of angst. She is best known for writing funny and emotional romances filled with smart, strong women, and sexy alphas who have a softer side - especially for their women.
Want to learn more about J. Saman? You can check out her website http://jsamanbooks.com
To receive a free copy of one of my books, subscribe to my newsletter:
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You can also follow her on Facebook, Instagram & Twitter!
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TWITTER
J. is an admitted lover of second chance romances, enemies to lovers, and the perfect amount of angst. She is best known for writing funny and emotional romances filled with smart, strong women, and sexy alphas who have a softer side - especially for their women.
Want to learn more about J. Saman? You can check out her website http://jsamanbooks.com
To receive a free copy of one of my books, subscribe to my newsletter:
SUBSCRIBE
You can also follow her on Facebook, Instagram & Twitter!
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 84 reviews
December 10, 2017
What happens when two souls truly want each other, seem to have that special chemistry to make it in the long haul and one of them continually shuts everything down? How many times of backing off is enough to say forget, it isn’t worth the pain? When does it become apparent that things will never change until both parties are willing to take a chance on living, the future and loving again?
They met under the worst of circumstances, but Gia Bianchi and Dr. Finnegan Banner made a connection that wouldn’t truly be realized until a year later when they both were working at the same hospital. Let. The. Games. And. Torment. Begin.
Finn wants Gia, Gia wants Finn, but Finn will not allow anything to happen between them BECAUSE Gia is perfect for him and his past looms like a hideous monster and holds him back. All Gia wants is to be loved by the man who has stolen her heart and let me tell you, I wasn’t sure who to corner for “the talk,” Finn or Gia. Finn’s life wasn’t always a bed of roses, and the pain inflicted on him as an adult was torturous, but his inability to move forward gives credence to the saying that doctors make the worst patients, and he needed help. Gia, bless her has the patience of a saint, but she also has needs and love to give, could she find it with another or will Finn suddenly come back into her life one more time, her hoping this is the time he will stay?
J. Saman’s love story that almost wasn’t, BEAUTIFUL POTENTIAL is a story of the potential that two souls have for true love, but potential is empty and both Gia and Finn deserve more. How do they get past Finn’s issues/ Is Gia truly capable of dealing with being a yo-yo? Why should she? Love comes in all shapes and sizes, sometimes it isn’t all roses and candles, sometimes the roses have thorns and sometimes patience and careful handling make those same roses even sweeter.
Ms. Saman has created a story of flaws and fears and taking chances. She has created a tale that is frustrating, heart-wrenching and probably more realistic than we like to think. Well written, very intense, highly charged emotionally, this is a story you won’t want to miss, because you WILL feel something for the characters and the romance. You will get involved!
I received a complimentary ARC review copy from J. Saman!
Publication Date: February 6, 2018
Publisher: J. Saman
Genre: Contemporary Romance
Print Length: 261 pages
Available from: Amazon
For Reviews & More: http://tometender.blogspot.com
They met under the worst of circumstances, but Gia Bianchi and Dr. Finnegan Banner made a connection that wouldn’t truly be realized until a year later when they both were working at the same hospital. Let. The. Games. And. Torment. Begin.
Finn wants Gia, Gia wants Finn, but Finn will not allow anything to happen between them BECAUSE Gia is perfect for him and his past looms like a hideous monster and holds him back. All Gia wants is to be loved by the man who has stolen her heart and let me tell you, I wasn’t sure who to corner for “the talk,” Finn or Gia. Finn’s life wasn’t always a bed of roses, and the pain inflicted on him as an adult was torturous, but his inability to move forward gives credence to the saying that doctors make the worst patients, and he needed help. Gia, bless her has the patience of a saint, but she also has needs and love to give, could she find it with another or will Finn suddenly come back into her life one more time, her hoping this is the time he will stay?
J. Saman’s love story that almost wasn’t, BEAUTIFUL POTENTIAL is a story of the potential that two souls have for true love, but potential is empty and both Gia and Finn deserve more. How do they get past Finn’s issues/ Is Gia truly capable of dealing with being a yo-yo? Why should she? Love comes in all shapes and sizes, sometimes it isn’t all roses and candles, sometimes the roses have thorns and sometimes patience and careful handling make those same roses even sweeter.
Ms. Saman has created a story of flaws and fears and taking chances. She has created a tale that is frustrating, heart-wrenching and probably more realistic than we like to think. Well written, very intense, highly charged emotionally, this is a story you won’t want to miss, because you WILL feel something for the characters and the romance. You will get involved!
I received a complimentary ARC review copy from J. Saman!
Publication Date: February 6, 2018
Publisher: J. Saman
Genre: Contemporary Romance
Print Length: 261 pages
Available from: Amazon
For Reviews & More: http://tometender.blogspot.com
January 22, 2018
I just don’t think J. Saman can write a bad book! I love all her stories. They all take you down a road of ups and downs with twists and turns, but always finding love. They are beautifully written and flow from page to page.
Gia is a strong independent woman that you just want to be her best friend. Finn is your McDreamy doctor that just needs a push in the right direction.
It is so worth the read!
Gia is a strong independent woman that you just want to be her best friend. Finn is your McDreamy doctor that just needs a push in the right direction.
It is so worth the read!
February 3, 2018
To be honest, I went into this book with pretty low expectations (mainly because of the cover) but it ended up exceeding these expectations!
This book was funny, cute and charming. What I liked most about it was the fact that the 2 main characters were working in a hospital and that we got to see them dealing with patients and stuff. It kinda gave me The Good Doctor vibes and I love that XD Plus, Gia being a midwife was the cherry on top because I love anything that has to do with babies! So anyway, I thought them being doctors was very original since we don't get to see that much in books and it was clear that a lot of research has gone into it.
However, while the writing was not bad, it also wasn't the best I've ever read. There were times when I was kind of lost and times where I felt that it dragged a bit. It also bordered on cheesy sometimes especially at the end. Another issue that I had with the book was that the plot was a little too similar to that of Ugly Love by Colleen Hoover, so the element of surprise was kinda lost for me. I don't want to say exactly how it was similar because this is a spoiler free review, but if you read Ugly Love I think you'd know what I mean. So, I feel like if I hadn't read Ugly Love I would've enjoyed this book more.
But despite all of this, I still really enjoyed Beautiful Potential. It was such a fun read and I loved that we got an epilogue. I also loved the message that it was trying to deliver even though it could've been executed better.
Here's one of my favorite quotes from the book:
"If you're scared and in pain, it means you're still alive. It means you're still fighting. It takes a very brave person to keep fighting even when they're scared and in pain"
This book was funny, cute and charming. What I liked most about it was the fact that the 2 main characters were working in a hospital and that we got to see them dealing with patients and stuff. It kinda gave me The Good Doctor vibes and I love that XD Plus, Gia being a midwife was the cherry on top because I love anything that has to do with babies! So anyway, I thought them being doctors was very original since we don't get to see that much in books and it was clear that a lot of research has gone into it.
However, while the writing was not bad, it also wasn't the best I've ever read. There were times when I was kind of lost and times where I felt that it dragged a bit. It also bordered on cheesy sometimes especially at the end. Another issue that I had with the book was that the plot was a little too similar to that of Ugly Love by Colleen Hoover, so the element of surprise was kinda lost for me. I don't want to say exactly how it was similar because this is a spoiler free review, but if you read Ugly Love I think you'd know what I mean. So, I feel like if I hadn't read Ugly Love I would've enjoyed this book more.
But despite all of this, I still really enjoyed Beautiful Potential. It was such a fun read and I loved that we got an epilogue. I also loved the message that it was trying to deliver even though it could've been executed better.
Here's one of my favorite quotes from the book:
"If you're scared and in pain, it means you're still alive. It means you're still fighting. It takes a very brave person to keep fighting even when they're scared and in pain"
March 14, 2018
As delicious as a cup of hot chocolate with whipped cream...
The first thing I'd like to compliment the author on is her pacing. It's a hard job bringing things to light at exactly the right time in exactly the right measure, but the reasons Finn has become the way he has are completely understandable (and putting Grace into the mix was a perfect touch). The back story comes out at important junctures, adding to the reader's need to keep going so they get the full picture, and that is a testament to skillful writing. The second thing I'd like to compliment the author on are how well Finn and Gia are fleshed out as characters. They become real, and even the lesser players like Chloe and Mike and even the bartender Ophelia ring true. Thirdly, the hospital environment and everything that happens there is dramatic and engrossing. And lastly, the fact that true love is never easy and we all have to surrender to it, that having control over the turn of events in a relationship is never possible, that someone hurting you doesn't mean you stop loving them, and that happiness for those who risk their hearts (despite these daunting truths) can flourish makes this a satisfying contemporary romance.
The first thing I'd like to compliment the author on is her pacing. It's a hard job bringing things to light at exactly the right time in exactly the right measure, but the reasons Finn has become the way he has are completely understandable (and putting Grace into the mix was a perfect touch). The back story comes out at important junctures, adding to the reader's need to keep going so they get the full picture, and that is a testament to skillful writing. The second thing I'd like to compliment the author on are how well Finn and Gia are fleshed out as characters. They become real, and even the lesser players like Chloe and Mike and even the bartender Ophelia ring true. Thirdly, the hospital environment and everything that happens there is dramatic and engrossing. And lastly, the fact that true love is never easy and we all have to surrender to it, that having control over the turn of events in a relationship is never possible, that someone hurting you doesn't mean you stop loving them, and that happiness for those who risk their hearts (despite these daunting truths) can flourish makes this a satisfying contemporary romance.
February 3, 2018
This book is spectacularly amazing, i couldn't stop reading, until my eyes were hurting, i kept reading in uni, in the bus, in my bed, God i was even reading while studying ( FYI DON'T EVER DO THAT, IT WAS STUPID AND I REGRET IT, i guess)
I tried to write my own summary, but i keep coming up empty, i don't think i can do this book any justice
It's far from a Cliche, the book has so many hidden lessons between the lines, so many deep feelings and intense emotions. I was deeply moved, and I related to A LOT of scenes.
eat up because I want to buy you a cupcake at that really amazing bakery which we always walk by but never go in to because we’re afraid just stepping inside will make us fat.
Fin was a big asshole, he wanted Gia, but he kept walking away; J.SAMAN, kept telling me that this book hero, was a little bit different from her usual books. AND i agree, Finn isn't easy, he was so difficult and frustrated me once or twice. BUT DAYUUUUUUMMMM, he was just as amazing.
I mean, he is hot, and a DOCTOR!!
Finnigan Banner just managed to turn me into a puddle of pathetic, right here on the dining room floor. And worse yet, I can’t help but love it.
Annd Gia, the Heroine i absolutely loved her! lately i have been feeling disconnected from any book heroine i read about,but Gia was just so spontaneous youknow? no fake-ness, or perfection. she kept moving on with her life, after every time Finn did an asshole move.
Were you mugged at gunpoint? Forced into an underground world of sex slavery? I know it’s wrong, but that shit sort of turns me on. I mean, not in real life, obviously. That would be terrifying and fucked up.
And i don't think i need to talk about the writing right? I just said that i love The author, so yeah her writing was perfect,so smooth and to the point. she used those medical terms, ( THAT I ACTUALLY GOOGLED) And guess what? EVERYTHING was REAL!! The way the story got us into the hospital life, the shifts, the patients and everything else medical related without any BLOOD shit, was pretty fascinating! ( i hate anything Bloody tbh)
I am in love, guys. this is by far, MY FAVORITE BOOK BY J.SAMAN.
I tried to write my own summary, but i keep coming up empty, i don't think i can do this book any justice
It's far from a Cliche, the book has so many hidden lessons between the lines, so many deep feelings and intense emotions. I was deeply moved, and I related to A LOT of scenes.
eat up because I want to buy you a cupcake at that really amazing bakery which we always walk by but never go in to because we’re afraid just stepping inside will make us fat.
Fin was a big asshole, he wanted Gia, but he kept walking away; J.SAMAN, kept telling me that this book hero, was a little bit different from her usual books. AND i agree, Finn isn't easy, he was so difficult and frustrated me once or twice. BUT DAYUUUUUUMMMM, he was just as amazing.
I mean, he is hot, and a DOCTOR!!
Finnigan Banner just managed to turn me into a puddle of pathetic, right here on the dining room floor. And worse yet, I can’t help but love it.
Annd Gia, the Heroine i absolutely loved her! lately i have been feeling disconnected from any book heroine i read about,but Gia was just so spontaneous youknow? no fake-ness, or perfection. she kept moving on with her life, after every time Finn did an asshole move.
Were you mugged at gunpoint? Forced into an underground world of sex slavery? I know it’s wrong, but that shit sort of turns me on. I mean, not in real life, obviously. That would be terrifying and fucked up.
And i don't think i need to talk about the writing right? I just said that i love The author, so yeah her writing was perfect,so smooth and to the point. she used those medical terms, ( THAT I ACTUALLY GOOGLED) And guess what? EVERYTHING was REAL!! The way the story got us into the hospital life, the shifts, the patients and everything else medical related without any BLOOD shit, was pretty fascinating! ( i hate anything Bloody tbh)
I am in love, guys. this is by far, MY FAVORITE BOOK BY J.SAMAN.
February 26, 2018
This is a fantastic read. Dr. Banner doesn't seem to be the best match for Gia at first but as the story progresses he starts to win your heart. The chemistry between the characters is very obvious and well played out. There are many emotional moments throughout the book making it hard to put the book down. It is well written with believable characters. The story had humor and at times was heartbreaking. This book is definitely worth reading and would recommend it to anyone.
February 6, 2018
A fantastic book. Extremely entertaining, captivating, and interesting read. I could not put it down. Wonderfully written with strong characters. I want to read more from this author. I voluntarily read and reviewed an Advance Reader Copy of this book.
February 9, 2018
It was ok...
H was just a jerk till the end, i was starting to DNF this story...
Heroine was pretty good and beautiful person, and i understand her frustration with Asshole H!!!
It took almost full book for H take his head from his Ass! A bit tooo long for me...
H was just a jerk till the end, i was starting to DNF this story...
Heroine was pretty good and beautiful person, and i understand her frustration with Asshole H!!!
It took almost full book for H take his head from his Ass! A bit tooo long for me...
February 3, 2018
It seems that every time Gia encounters Finn he’s either seeing her at her worst or rescuing her from some disaster. Which may not be so bad if they could just part ways and go on with their lives, but not only do they work at the same hospital, there is this insane attraction between them as strong as the gravitational pull of the moon. Now in your everyday, ordinary romance novel, the main characters act on the attraction, fall in love, experience some sort of crisis which resolves, and they live happily ever after.
This is no ordinary romance. This is a J. Saman novel, and the road to forever is never an easy one for her characters. She doesn’t fall back on clichés of selfishness or immaturity in her characters, but rather employs external forces of conflict or deep seated damage or pain in a character's backstory that make the behavior reasonable, understandable and even excusable. I just know when I read one of her books it will be an experience that is challenging and frustrating but delicious and satisfying. That is the case with Finn and Gia. There is no question from their very first meeting that there’s a once-in-a-lifetime special something between them, yet it looks like all of their interactions will lead to nothing more than a devastatingly heartbreaking “might have been.”
I absolutely adored Gia, and Finn, bless his heart, he owned me. Gia was smart and beautiful, but funny, kind and down to earth. She’s the girl we all want to be BFF's with and the kind of person that makes the lives of others better just by being in them. She has a huge, forgiving heart, and a lot more patience and goodness than most people I know. Now Finn. Oh boy, Finn. A good man with a wealth of pain he hid under a façade of arrogant jerk, I wanted nothing more than to wrap him up in my arms and take away his pain while I shook him and smacked him and insisted he pull his head out of the sand and get his act together!
So no, their journey isn’t an easy one but it is captivating, endearing, fascinating, heart wrenching, humorous, and oh, so rewarding! With plenty of push and pull, a little comic relief and just the right amount of angst, this perfectly crafted, beautifully penned story will warm your heart, fill your soul and linger long after the last page.
This is no ordinary romance. This is a J. Saman novel, and the road to forever is never an easy one for her characters. She doesn’t fall back on clichés of selfishness or immaturity in her characters, but rather employs external forces of conflict or deep seated damage or pain in a character's backstory that make the behavior reasonable, understandable and even excusable. I just know when I read one of her books it will be an experience that is challenging and frustrating but delicious and satisfying. That is the case with Finn and Gia. There is no question from their very first meeting that there’s a once-in-a-lifetime special something between them, yet it looks like all of their interactions will lead to nothing more than a devastatingly heartbreaking “might have been.”
I absolutely adored Gia, and Finn, bless his heart, he owned me. Gia was smart and beautiful, but funny, kind and down to earth. She’s the girl we all want to be BFF's with and the kind of person that makes the lives of others better just by being in them. She has a huge, forgiving heart, and a lot more patience and goodness than most people I know. Now Finn. Oh boy, Finn. A good man with a wealth of pain he hid under a façade of arrogant jerk, I wanted nothing more than to wrap him up in my arms and take away his pain while I shook him and smacked him and insisted he pull his head out of the sand and get his act together!
So no, their journey isn’t an easy one but it is captivating, endearing, fascinating, heart wrenching, humorous, and oh, so rewarding! With plenty of push and pull, a little comic relief and just the right amount of angst, this perfectly crafted, beautifully penned story will warm your heart, fill your soul and linger long after the last page.
February 24, 2018
**Actual Rating 4.5**
Characters
Gia is like the cutest person ever but also tough. I love how often she wipes out on seemingly nothing. But she is also tough and charming. Plus I respect her for sticking to her guns and not settling - big brownie points! Finn by contrast is the nicest person ever wrapped in bitter and assholery. Basically he is a sour patch gummy. Which makes for a hilariously contradictory character because he is a jerk, but Gia brings out the best in him, who he used to be before...life happened. Gia's friends are a bunch of fun, and I love their dynamic. I'd love to see a book on Ophelia on a side note, I love that girl!
Plot
To be completely honest I didn't like the start of this book. I knew it was a romance. However, I really struggled with Gia being attracted to anyone when she JUST found out her dad was dead. It was a rocky start that didn't last, after I got over the first chapter I sprinted over a very short time to the end - because I JUST HAD TO KNOW!
This is more than a romance, it is a story of second changes for Finn. I won't give anything away as all is revealed through a series of flashbacks that will rip your guts out. You will get sucked in and not be able to put it down until Gia and Finn get their happy ending! It is about potential of something amazing that was almost lost because Finn was stuck in the past.
Overall
Just wow! The writing was enjoyable and evenly balanced. The setting of the medical field was a huge bonus and helped give the book another dimension. As a reader I was invested in them getting to their ending and I'd recommend for those who want an emotionally charged romance. To the point that I wanted to yell at Finn and tell him to get his butt in gear. To take a chance! When the tug of war between Finn and Gia is just starting to get old, they take steps forward, showing excellent pacing. In conclusion, it was awesome to read another of Saman's books and see such growth!
Rating
4.5 stars (rounded up)
A gut wrenching romance that you'll get sucked into and have to know both Finn's truth and how it is going to end! Fantastic romance read!
This is a voluntary review. More reveiws at creatingworldswithwords.wordpress.com.
Characters
Gia is like the cutest person ever but also tough. I love how often she wipes out on seemingly nothing. But she is also tough and charming. Plus I respect her for sticking to her guns and not settling - big brownie points! Finn by contrast is the nicest person ever wrapped in bitter and assholery. Basically he is a sour patch gummy. Which makes for a hilariously contradictory character because he is a jerk, but Gia brings out the best in him, who he used to be before...life happened. Gia's friends are a bunch of fun, and I love their dynamic. I'd love to see a book on Ophelia on a side note, I love that girl!
Plot
To be completely honest I didn't like the start of this book. I knew it was a romance. However, I really struggled with Gia being attracted to anyone when she JUST found out her dad was dead. It was a rocky start that didn't last, after I got over the first chapter I sprinted over a very short time to the end - because I JUST HAD TO KNOW!
This is more than a romance, it is a story of second changes for Finn. I won't give anything away as all is revealed through a series of flashbacks that will rip your guts out. You will get sucked in and not be able to put it down until Gia and Finn get their happy ending! It is about potential of something amazing that was almost lost because Finn was stuck in the past.
Overall
Just wow! The writing was enjoyable and evenly balanced. The setting of the medical field was a huge bonus and helped give the book another dimension. As a reader I was invested in them getting to their ending and I'd recommend for those who want an emotionally charged romance. To the point that I wanted to yell at Finn and tell him to get his butt in gear. To take a chance! When the tug of war between Finn and Gia is just starting to get old, they take steps forward, showing excellent pacing. In conclusion, it was awesome to read another of Saman's books and see such growth!
Rating
4.5 stars (rounded up)
A gut wrenching romance that you'll get sucked into and have to know both Finn's truth and how it is going to end! Fantastic romance read!
This is a voluntary review. More reveiws at creatingworldswithwords.wordpress.com.
December 5, 2017
“When my eyes aren’t on his and his aren’t on mine, I still feel him. Like a pulse. Finn is a constant steady rhythm. Something tangible and alive. Something that’s making me dizzy and excited. It’s addictive. This game we’re playing right now.”
When they first met it was when Doctor Finn told Gia that her father passed away, but one year later Gia meets with doctor Finn again this time he is saving her life. Their affection for each other is pretty obvious but sometimes is stopping him from asking her out. One minute he is flirty and the next he is a jerk. Its so infuriating. She doesn’t fit his criteria of “easy, no commitment, one night stands” but they also do nothing to stop showing their affection. While she is on a date with her “not serious, not exclusive, leave before breakfast, standard” Colin, she meets Finn and she can’t stop looking at him. The sight of him excites her more than the sight of Colin. Finn slips her a paper to meet her and he’s all flirty then he changes and suddenly gives her a hard face and leaves her. You gotta read this beautiful romance to know what happens next. Is he ever gonna make a move? What is his secret? Why doesn’t he wanna ask her out? Will she ever be official with Colin?I enjoyed reading this book so much. It was so beautiful. It got me from the beginning until the very end. I loved Finn and Gia so much and their honesty with each other. I also loved Chloe (Gia’s bestfriend) and all her sarcasm.
When they first met it was when Doctor Finn told Gia that her father passed away, but one year later Gia meets with doctor Finn again this time he is saving her life. Their affection for each other is pretty obvious but sometimes is stopping him from asking her out. One minute he is flirty and the next he is a jerk. Its so infuriating. She doesn’t fit his criteria of “easy, no commitment, one night stands” but they also do nothing to stop showing their affection. While she is on a date with her “not serious, not exclusive, leave before breakfast, standard” Colin, she meets Finn and she can’t stop looking at him. The sight of him excites her more than the sight of Colin. Finn slips her a paper to meet her and he’s all flirty then he changes and suddenly gives her a hard face and leaves her. You gotta read this beautiful romance to know what happens next. Is he ever gonna make a move? What is his secret? Why doesn’t he wanna ask her out? Will she ever be official with Colin?I enjoyed reading this book so much. It was so beautiful. It got me from the beginning until the very end. I loved Finn and Gia so much and their honesty with each other. I also loved Chloe (Gia’s bestfriend) and all her sarcasm.
Read
February 9, 2018Below are some of my random Impressions on reading this novel.
If you like a slow-burn romance, you might like this book. The entire romantic conflict arises from the dark, brooding, internal, emotional issues of the hero Finn which keep him from trusting his feelings for the heroine Gia.
If you prefer a romance in which from the moment the hero and heroine lay eyes on each other neither looks at another person sexually or romantically, this would not be the book for you. In this particular case, rather than the hero being the one who has a roving eye, it is Gia who has several other relationships before she and Finn get together. Technically, it is not cheating, because they aren't yet in a committed relationship. But for me personally, it makes it difficult for me to believe that this is true love among soulmates, when either of the two romantic protagonists can bear to be with anyone else after they meet.
If you don't like flashbacks, which tend to greatly interrupt the forward flow of the narrative in a novel, be aware this book consists of, or so it seemed to me, at least 50% flashbacks.
Some might label this a new adult romance because Gia is 27 and Finn is 29. I personally think that's too old to call someone new at being an adult.
In a somewhat unusual twist, this novel. which is set in New York City, provides interesting scenes of the hospital in which Finn works as an ER doctor and Gia works as a nurse midwife. For the most part those scenes seem fairly accurate. There is just enough work detail to be interesting, and not so much as to be boring.
If you like a slow-burn romance, you might like this book. The entire romantic conflict arises from the dark, brooding, internal, emotional issues of the hero Finn which keep him from trusting his feelings for the heroine Gia.
If you prefer a romance in which from the moment the hero and heroine lay eyes on each other neither looks at another person sexually or romantically, this would not be the book for you. In this particular case, rather than the hero being the one who has a roving eye, it is Gia who has several other relationships before she and Finn get together. Technically, it is not cheating, because they aren't yet in a committed relationship. But for me personally, it makes it difficult for me to believe that this is true love among soulmates, when either of the two romantic protagonists can bear to be with anyone else after they meet.
If you don't like flashbacks, which tend to greatly interrupt the forward flow of the narrative in a novel, be aware this book consists of, or so it seemed to me, at least 50% flashbacks.
Some might label this a new adult romance because Gia is 27 and Finn is 29. I personally think that's too old to call someone new at being an adult.
In a somewhat unusual twist, this novel. which is set in New York City, provides interesting scenes of the hospital in which Finn works as an ER doctor and Gia works as a nurse midwife. For the most part those scenes seem fairly accurate. There is just enough work detail to be interesting, and not so much as to be boring.
July 9, 2023
This was sooo repetitive and nothing really happened except at the beginning and the end. Hero has a tragic past and doesn't want to fall in love again, heroine knows that but still falls for him, Hero constantly leads her on just to give us another spiel of "I can't love you, everything will turn horrible if I do", heroine is annoyed, forgives him, I really couldn't stand it anymore at some point. It took them so long to get over their bs, that we got like ten pages of them actually being happy together and that's just not enough for me. The heroine also stayed with her boyfriend for a while, while developing feelings for the hero and that made me feel icky.
January 28, 2018
This is a really good read – a fast pace, engaging page turner. The characters are beautiful and sweet; however they had to overcome some past issues, especially Finn who experienced the ultimate betrayal. This caused him to have trust issues resulting in the back and forth between him and Gia. The ideas are well-developed and consistent and it is a genuinely well written, sweet story with an even more beautiful ending. This is a must read – you will not be disappointed. I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
February 19, 2018
This book was so beautiful and so sad and frustrating but It was so worth it.When I really like a book, I find it hard to explain it in just words so Here's my review in GIFS:
Started off with me smiling and then BAM
Then me repeatedly hitting Finnigan :)
then me begging the characters to hit Fin and knock some sense into him
Me screaming at them to make out already GoDDAmmit
me crying( but beautifully) :
me then dancing to a happy ending
Started off with me smiling and then BAM
Then me repeatedly hitting Finnigan :)
then me begging the characters to hit Fin and knock some sense into him
Me screaming at them to make out already GoDDAmmit
me crying( but beautifully) :
me then dancing to a happy ending
December 10, 2017
You know when you find yourself crying in the epilogue it is going to be a great book. I picked up this book to just read the epilogue and at around midnight I found myself sitting straight up clenching the iPad. That’s how good it was! I literally had to read it in one night no matter how tired I was going to be the next day.
I was brought back into the medical field lingo- one that I actually enjoy. My son was in the hospital for awhile so while I have no medical background, degree or training, once you live in it and just observe for as long as we did, you start to understand it. The author did a great job of actually using correct medical terms and even though I did not enjoy our time in the hospital, I was able to be taken to a medical setting and enjoy it.
I cannot imagine going through what Gia goes through. The story brought up all sort of emotions for me. I loved the two of them. I loved them apart and at other times I needed them together. I hated the way Finn would treat Gia and at other times I found myself completely ok with his actions because once you find out the why you don’t blame him one bit.
The book switches between dual POV and alternates between past and present. It was a quick read for me because I couldn’t put it down. I thought both main characters brought it all to the table – you will love them, hate them, laugh at them, and want this to work out for both of them.
If you have the chance to get it, I would highly recommend you getting it soon! Because of how much this book touched me and how much I fell in love with it I am giving it a 5 star roasting!
I was brought back into the medical field lingo- one that I actually enjoy. My son was in the hospital for awhile so while I have no medical background, degree or training, once you live in it and just observe for as long as we did, you start to understand it. The author did a great job of actually using correct medical terms and even though I did not enjoy our time in the hospital, I was able to be taken to a medical setting and enjoy it.
I cannot imagine going through what Gia goes through. The story brought up all sort of emotions for me. I loved the two of them. I loved them apart and at other times I needed them together. I hated the way Finn would treat Gia and at other times I found myself completely ok with his actions because once you find out the why you don’t blame him one bit.
The book switches between dual POV and alternates between past and present. It was a quick read for me because I couldn’t put it down. I thought both main characters brought it all to the table – you will love them, hate them, laugh at them, and want this to work out for both of them.
If you have the chance to get it, I would highly recommend you getting it soon! Because of how much this book touched me and how much I fell in love with it I am giving it a 5 star roasting!
March 9, 2018
Beautiful Potential is a beautiful love story between two people who did everything in their powers to deny, ignore and carry on with life without each other, but fate wouldn’t allow them. The connection between them from the first accidental meeting, is instantaneous, even though that was the last thing on Gia’s mind, having just lost her dad. Finn on the other hand, has his own sets of demons, insecurity being one of them. But the harder he fights to ignore and stay away from Gia, the more things were working to throw them together…in work and social activities. In the end, I was happy when Finn stops fighting and accepts Gia as his destiny, even though he had to travel out of the country to propose. I say bravo to them.
I especially like the dialogue, which is cheerful and appropriate, making the story very relatable. I highly recommend, Beautiful Potential!
I especially like the dialogue, which is cheerful and appropriate, making the story very relatable. I highly recommend, Beautiful Potential!
January 24, 2018
I have no words for it...
what a beautiful book. I definitely get these stars from me. everyone should read this.
it reads wonderfully and you feel the chemistry of the pages coming off.
I tell myself nothing about the story .. that really everyone must read for sight .. because yes this book is definitely worth it.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
what a beautiful book. I definitely get these stars from me. everyone should read this.
it reads wonderfully and you feel the chemistry of the pages coming off.
I tell myself nothing about the story .. that really everyone must read for sight .. because yes this book is definitely worth it.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
June 27, 2018
I have to admit I loved the book and once I started reading I couldn’t put the book down. I am a sucker for love stories but I read them so many that not many still keep my attention so intensely like the book Beautiful Potential. The main characters Finn and Gia ( I put Finn first because I’m in love with him ) are nicely characterised and there is a permanent pushing and pulling between them that doesn’t give you time to rest from the book until you realise it’s finished. And even though both characters work in the hospital and I really do not prefer the environment or even the profession much, just because I had a string of bad experiences with doctors and every time I imagine them in their scrubs my blood freezes. But because of the beautifully told story I didn’t mind the environment that was chosen for the book. I highly recommend for romance lovers.
July 23, 2018
Finn Finn Finn.....
I was in a book funk for a very long time and this book took me out of it. While Banner annoyed me to pieces I still loved his character. I understood his heartbreak and his resistance to start a relationship but I did not like how he played with Gia. To be honest we never really got to know who Finn really was in the book. Maybe towards the end, but nothing to truly get giddy over.
Gia was a fantastic lead. She had spunk, character, and an overall genuine aura about her. I loved how she stood up to Finn and dated other guys to get over Finn’s indecisive behavior.
I appreciated the banter between them, but that was basically the entire book. I wished we got more of Finn and Gia together as a couple. Maybe 50% of the book should of been about them in an actual relationship and not only .1%. I felt somewhat cheated that I had to read about Finn hot and cold behavior but never actually read about them being officially together. While the epilogue was cute it wasn’t enough. Overall the book is an enjoyable read that was equally annoying.
I was in a book funk for a very long time and this book took me out of it. While Banner annoyed me to pieces I still loved his character. I understood his heartbreak and his resistance to start a relationship but I did not like how he played with Gia. To be honest we never really got to know who Finn really was in the book. Maybe towards the end, but nothing to truly get giddy over.
Gia was a fantastic lead. She had spunk, character, and an overall genuine aura about her. I loved how she stood up to Finn and dated other guys to get over Finn’s indecisive behavior.
I appreciated the banter between them, but that was basically the entire book. I wished we got more of Finn and Gia together as a couple. Maybe 50% of the book should of been about them in an actual relationship and not only .1%. I felt somewhat cheated that I had to read about Finn hot and cold behavior but never actually read about them being officially together. While the epilogue was cute it wasn’t enough. Overall the book is an enjoyable read that was equally annoying.
March 20, 2018
Freaking amazing book. It had so many ups and downs and sometimes I just wanted to scream BUT YOU LOVE HER!!! But haha that was the point. It was an amazing book :)
May 22, 2018
As always, J. Saman really knows how to rock a contemporary romance! Thoroughly enjoyable!
In this story, Gia meets a man on a tragic day… the day her father dies of a massive heart attack. Needless to say, the timing isn’t great – even though there is something about him that has her thinking of him later.
A year later, the same gorgeous doctor, Finn, saves Gia from getting smeared on the road by a car, and she learns he is working in the same hospital where she works. This time, he is unmistakably gorgeous and irresistible. There’s just one problem. Finn himself. Sometimes he flirts and acts like he’s falling for her, but sometimes he pushes her away so brutally that Gia is left reeling. Why? What game is he playing?
The characterization in the story is (as always) brilliant. With the story told from both Gia and Finn’s point of view, we learn about the pain and scars Finn is carrying around and why he is both overwhelmingly attracted to Gia, yet repulsed by the idea of a relationship – any relationship. We feel Gia’s attraction to this smart, sexy, thoughtful man, and her bafflement at his intermittent rejections.
The strong points of any of J. Saman’s books are her voice and her characterization. I was immediately swept into the book, engulfed by the characters, and – as usual – wish I actually knew these people (or, feel that I already do)!
Also, being someone who cries at love stories and anything else that touches my heart, it will come as no surprise that I cried at the end – happy tears, of course.
This book (and this author) is strongly recommended to anyone who loves contemporary romance – you won’t be disappointed!
In this story, Gia meets a man on a tragic day… the day her father dies of a massive heart attack. Needless to say, the timing isn’t great – even though there is something about him that has her thinking of him later.
A year later, the same gorgeous doctor, Finn, saves Gia from getting smeared on the road by a car, and she learns he is working in the same hospital where she works. This time, he is unmistakably gorgeous and irresistible. There’s just one problem. Finn himself. Sometimes he flirts and acts like he’s falling for her, but sometimes he pushes her away so brutally that Gia is left reeling. Why? What game is he playing?
The characterization in the story is (as always) brilliant. With the story told from both Gia and Finn’s point of view, we learn about the pain and scars Finn is carrying around and why he is both overwhelmingly attracted to Gia, yet repulsed by the idea of a relationship – any relationship. We feel Gia’s attraction to this smart, sexy, thoughtful man, and her bafflement at his intermittent rejections.
The strong points of any of J. Saman’s books are her voice and her characterization. I was immediately swept into the book, engulfed by the characters, and – as usual – wish I actually knew these people (or, feel that I already do)!
Also, being someone who cries at love stories and anything else that touches my heart, it will come as no surprise that I cried at the end – happy tears, of course.
This book (and this author) is strongly recommended to anyone who loves contemporary romance – you won’t be disappointed!
December 28, 2017
'Finn steps into me, crowding me until my back hits the wall. He sets his coffee on the floor and then brackets me in with his arms. His face dips down so close to mine that his blazing eyes take up nearly my entire field of vision. His warm sweet coffee-scented breath fans against my lips.'
This quote from Beautiful Potential is just a tiny example of what makes J. Saman a master at her craft. All of her characters are painstakingly created so they are identifiable to each and every one of us. It's the perfect hook for an avid reader like myself. I thrive on angst, turmoil and broken men who find strong women to piece them back together. Will Gia be patient enough to uncover what makes Finn tick. And will Finn be man enough to finally reveal his deepest, darkest secrets to Gia?
'One day, Finnigan Banner, I'll know all your secrets. And then you'll be stuck with me, whether you want that or not.'
Beautiful Potential is a must read for anyone who believes that love is well worth the risk. In this case, love conquers all...
This quote from Beautiful Potential is just a tiny example of what makes J. Saman a master at her craft. All of her characters are painstakingly created so they are identifiable to each and every one of us. It's the perfect hook for an avid reader like myself. I thrive on angst, turmoil and broken men who find strong women to piece them back together. Will Gia be patient enough to uncover what makes Finn tick. And will Finn be man enough to finally reveal his deepest, darkest secrets to Gia?
'One day, Finnigan Banner, I'll know all your secrets. And then you'll be stuck with me, whether you want that or not.'
Beautiful Potential is a must read for anyone who believes that love is well worth the risk. In this case, love conquers all...
April 13, 2018
Well this one gave a new definition to kiss or kill. A lot of pregnancy, tragedy and mind games. In the start of the story I liked both of the main characters and then I didn’t, it kept going back and forth like that throughout the story. Finn felt a bit Jekyll and Hyde, his possessiveness bordering near insanity. His character came across as manipulative. Gia was a strong character in her own right, with him to pick her up at each hurdle despite destroying themselves at the same time. I didn’t like her coping mechanism. What was the point of damaging more people? I didn’t like Kelly or what she did. I felt sorry for Mason, he was a lovely character and didn’t deserve to be in that situation. Favourite character was Ophelia because everyone needs a guardian when you’re drowning your sorrows. Read through smoothly but the characters had me torn between hope and anger.
May 3, 2018
“History doesn’t always repeat itself, Finn. Sometimes it’s like a lightning strike. I know there’s a lot more you haven’t told me, but I won’t be another storm for you to weather. I’m the sunshine you feel when it’s all done.”
Review: This book was a lot like Until It Fades by K. A. Tucker in terms of how I feel about it. Shed a few (okay maybe more than a few) tears, had my heart broken but also laughed at the sarcasm, died laughing at the dirty jokes 😂❤️. I really love this book & I'm glad I got to read this book thanks to @earlybookishbirds It really hit me that life can really be a piece of shit at times & whatever someone is going through can be compared to what someone else is going through. I couldn't put it down & when I tried, I couldn't stop thinking about it.
Review: This book was a lot like Until It Fades by K. A. Tucker in terms of how I feel about it. Shed a few (okay maybe more than a few) tears, had my heart broken but also laughed at the sarcasm, died laughing at the dirty jokes 😂❤️. I really love this book & I'm glad I got to read this book thanks to @earlybookishbirds It really hit me that life can really be a piece of shit at times & whatever someone is going through can be compared to what someone else is going through. I couldn't put it down & when I tried, I couldn't stop thinking about it.
February 5, 2018
Love is not always kind or beautiful. Sometimes it's tragic or heartbreaking. Beautiful Potential was both tragic and heartbreakingly beautiful.
I couldn't help but empathize with both Finn and Gia. Finn has suffered through so much, and while he can be a jerk most times, I found my heart breaking for him.
Gia is smart and full of sass. My head spun a bit right along with hers with Finn's mind games.
This type and quality of book is honestly why I read. I felt everything that these characters were feeling and definitely brought out the tissues a few times.
I was so very fortunate to be able to review an Advanced Reader Copy of this book!
I couldn't help but empathize with both Finn and Gia. Finn has suffered through so much, and while he can be a jerk most times, I found my heart breaking for him.
Gia is smart and full of sass. My head spun a bit right along with hers with Finn's mind games.
This type and quality of book is honestly why I read. I felt everything that these characters were feeling and definitely brought out the tissues a few times.
I was so very fortunate to be able to review an Advanced Reader Copy of this book!
May 17, 2018
Another review had vanished...
November 18, 2017
You should send a copy of this book to Alexis Angel..maybe she would learn how to write a real book.
I voluntarily read an arc of this book for a fair and honest review. What happens when you meet a gorgeous doctor who is telling you that your beloved father has just died? makes for one memorable college graduation day. Fast forward one year. Gia is now working as a midwife at the same hospital As Finnegan Banner. Even though Finn is more than interested, he can not let himself go there. Gia is everything he wants but not what he needs. Easy, no commitment, one night only sex. He needs to stop thinking about her. He is the wrong man for her. Gia makes no bones about her attraction to Finn and Finn also doesn’t hide the fact that he’s affected by her. But Finn seems to despise his weakness when it comes to Gia and Gia just wants Finn to ask her out. While Gia is out on a date with her “not serious, not exclusive, leave before breakfast” Colin, she runs into Finn at the bar where they are all having dates. Even though their eyes are glues to one another, Gia forces herself to look away. Finn has had more than one opportunity to ask Gia out but has never done so. When Finn slips her a note to meet him by the rest rooms, he still can’t bring himself to seal the deal and sends Gia back to Colin. I’m at the 33% mark and Finn is still infuriating. Part of me wants the author to introduce a whole new male character for Gia because these mixed signals are almost cruel. And what’s worse, Finn knows it. Once Finn story starts “drizzling” out I find myself more angry at the cause of his problems. To be loved to the extent she was loved and to just throw it away. On a personal note...my husband and I had the same thing happen to us, except our tragedy happened after we loved and made memories and were planning and marriage and babies when we lost our daughter. Back to the review...I was happy to see another man come into Gia’s life. Earlier in my review I said I hoped that would happen. But I think the word addiction was the perfect word. There were times I just wanted to shake Finn and times I wished Gia had more pride but that’s where addiction comes in. I forced myself to stop reading at one point, take a day, and pick the book back up. I have a love/hate relationship with this book, but I know, damn it all..I will read it again. Just a note..you should gift Alexis Angel a copy of this book...maybe she can learn how to write one if she read this.
I voluntarily read an arc of this book for a fair and honest review. What happens when you meet a gorgeous doctor who is telling you that your beloved father has just died? makes for one memorable college graduation day. Fast forward one year. Gia is now working as a midwife at the same hospital As Finnegan Banner. Even though Finn is more than interested, he can not let himself go there. Gia is everything he wants but not what he needs. Easy, no commitment, one night only sex. He needs to stop thinking about her. He is the wrong man for her. Gia makes no bones about her attraction to Finn and Finn also doesn’t hide the fact that he’s affected by her. But Finn seems to despise his weakness when it comes to Gia and Gia just wants Finn to ask her out. While Gia is out on a date with her “not serious, not exclusive, leave before breakfast” Colin, she runs into Finn at the bar where they are all having dates. Even though their eyes are glues to one another, Gia forces herself to look away. Finn has had more than one opportunity to ask Gia out but has never done so. When Finn slips her a note to meet him by the rest rooms, he still can’t bring himself to seal the deal and sends Gia back to Colin. I’m at the 33% mark and Finn is still infuriating. Part of me wants the author to introduce a whole new male character for Gia because these mixed signals are almost cruel. And what’s worse, Finn knows it. Once Finn story starts “drizzling” out I find myself more angry at the cause of his problems. To be loved to the extent she was loved and to just throw it away. On a personal note...my husband and I had the same thing happen to us, except our tragedy happened after we loved and made memories and were planning and marriage and babies when we lost our daughter. Back to the review...I was happy to see another man come into Gia’s life. Earlier in my review I said I hoped that would happen. But I think the word addiction was the perfect word. There were times I just wanted to shake Finn and times I wished Gia had more pride but that’s where addiction comes in. I forced myself to stop reading at one point, take a day, and pick the book back up. I have a love/hate relationship with this book, but I know, damn it all..I will read it again. Just a note..you should gift Alexis Angel a copy of this book...maybe she can learn how to write one if she read this.
November 18, 2017
Gia and Finn: Gia a RN Midwife. Finn a ER Attending Physician. Gia came from a loving family and grew up with a grounded well rounded personality. Finn grew up with his father abusing him and his mother did nothing to intervene. Then he met someone who hurt him to no end.. causing him to abandon ever falling in love again or trusting anyone. But he meets Gia when her father was rushed to the ER and died. He tried to console her. He was attracted to her immediately but did nothing about it. A year later they run into each other finding out they work at the same hospital. Finn tries to fight his attraction to Gia but little by little his resistance starts to crack. When that happens he pulls back. He has a self inflicted way of hurting himself and Gia by getting close to her and then pulling back. He does this for months which confuses the crap out of Gia. She finally can't take it any more and asks that he stay away. But they fall in love with each other but it does not solve the problem of Finn being unable to give himself fully to Gia. Finn drove me crazy the way he treated Gia and she did try to move on with her life but it was always Finn who was in her heart even after all the crap he put her through. Finally when Finn was feeling down remembering all that he lost and went threw was having a pity party for himself and his best friend Mike came and told him not to let Gia get away. Sometime you just have to fight through the fear and the pain. Now how was he suppose to fight for her when she wanted nothing to do with him. She was trying to protect herself the best she could from his advances and withdraws. This is an emotional book a rollercoaster of emotions. It is off the beaten path and worth the time to read.
I voluntarily received an Advanced Readers Copy of this book.
I voluntarily received an Advanced Readers Copy of this book.
February 6, 2018
Wow its book ass so intense but in a good way. There was just something that got to me about this one. It was the ultimate test to both Finn and Gia. Could they survive so much and come out on top or would life come between them? The answer is all of the above. We see what caused Finn to be so cold-hearted about life but when he finds his TRUE love things turn his life upside down. Gia lost so much in the beginning of the story that I cried so hard. I know what it's like losing a parent and for her on her graduation day. Very sad. By the end of this book both of them finally come to terms that it's just right for them and find that missing piece each so needs. I hope that we get a chance to see them later in another book...like Mike and Monique or even Chloe. Hint! ;)
Another hit in my opinion and I'm looking forward to reading more. This is a true HEA and I'll recommend it to any reader. I give it 5 stars. I voluntarily reviewed this book as an Advanced Reader's Copy.
Another hit in my opinion and I'm looking forward to reading more. This is a true HEA and I'll recommend it to any reader. I give it 5 stars. I voluntarily reviewed this book as an Advanced Reader's Copy.
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