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The Debt #2
Where I Belong
Librarian's Note: An alternate cover for this ASIN can be found here.
THE GIRL I LOVED IS THE WOMAN I CAN’T HAVE
It was simple: Pay the debt and I stay out of jail. Pay the debt and I stay alive.
But I sacrificed it all for Beth.
I didn’t pay what I owed. I’m sure punishment is coming, but I can take it - as long as Beth is safe. Away from her mother and everyone else who would hurt her.
I gave it all up for two days with her. And it was worth it.
She always was.
THE SECRETS WE KEEP ARE WHAT TEARS US APART
We’re supposed to be done. Over. Tommy goes his way, I go mine. Cue the heartbreaking music.
I’m supposed to forget him, but I don’t think I can. And when the danger closes in on Tommy, we’re on the run again. From Bates. From my mother. From our past. And there are no safe places to hide.
Except one. And it’s the place that will hurt Tommy the most.
But maybe it’s time for me to face my past. My demons.
Maybe it’s time for me to save Tommy for once.
THE GIRL I LOVED IS THE WOMAN I CAN’T HAVE
It was simple: Pay the debt and I stay out of jail. Pay the debt and I stay alive.
But I sacrificed it all for Beth.
I didn’t pay what I owed. I’m sure punishment is coming, but I can take it - as long as Beth is safe. Away from her mother and everyone else who would hurt her.
I gave it all up for two days with her. And it was worth it.
She always was.
THE SECRETS WE KEEP ARE WHAT TEARS US APART
We’re supposed to be done. Over. Tommy goes his way, I go mine. Cue the heartbreaking music.
I’m supposed to forget him, but I don’t think I can. And when the danger closes in on Tommy, we’re on the run again. From Bates. From my mother. From our past. And there are no safe places to hide.
Except one. And it’s the place that will hurt Tommy the most.
But maybe it’s time for me to face my past. My demons.
Maybe it’s time for me to save Tommy for once.
192 pages, Kindle Edition
First published June 26, 2017
125 people are currently reading
619 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 94 reviews
June 21, 2017
Similar to book ones cover and because of that my thoughts are basically the same. It's OK. It has good composition and interesting title work.
Sigh...I am so on the fence about this one. One one hand I was happy to see Beth and Tommy's story come to a happy for now conclusion. On the other hand, I felt this installment dragged a lot, and everything was wrapped up far too easily. I almost feel like this book could have been condensed and added to the first one to make a single more cohesive book.
That said I am still onboard with the series overall and intrigued to see what Simon is going to have to do to pay his debt. I also hope we get some more insight into Clarissa and Bates. So ya, a few mixed feelings about this one, but as I said I am still intrigued enough to continue.
June 24, 2017
4 STARS
Where I Belong is the emotional conclusion to Beth and Tommy's story and if possible, I enjoyed this installment even more than the first book. While we got a gritty and unapologetic look into Tommy's childhood inLost Without You, this book finally brings the answers to all the questions regarding Beth.
Beth has been living a fragile existence based on lies and hidden truths. Hiding from the world, hiding from her memories, she used her alter-ego, Jada, to deal with the hard stuff. Jada isn't like Beth; hard where she's soft, cynic where she's nostalgic. The only person capable of tearing through her walls is the boy from her past that she never stopped loving. But what happens to those carefully constructed walls when he wants Jada instead of Beth to hold his own heart back?
Where book one focused on their past, this one focuses on their present. The fragile trust that they've managed to rebuild and the lies that threaten to tear them apart. I fell hard for Tommy in the beginning but I felt even harder for him in this book. There's just something so fragile about him beneath the tough guy appearance. This is a man that wears his heart on his sleeve and would do anything for the girl he loves; even if it means sacrificing himself and his happiness. Man, but my heart broke for him. And with every new detail that gets unraveled, it broke even more.
Where I struggled a bit to understand Beth/Jada in the previous book, the puzzle piece really clicked into place with this one. You finally get why she is the way she is and why she made the choices she did. You want to judge her for them, but you can't.
This book brought many answers, but it also left just as many questions. I wanted to say that I felt fully satisfied with the ending, but there was something missing for me to make that statement completely true. It's clear that this marks the beginning of the series and we'll be getting a lot more answers with Simon (and then hopefully Carissa). The duet gives you a conclusion to the romance between Beth and Tommy but not the story. There's too many unanswered questions that you're left with at the end and I'm already salivating for more of the series. One thing is for sure, however, and it's that I'm addicted to Molly O'Keefe's words, and I can't wait for more!
ARC courtesy of author in exchange for an honest review
Find me on:
I wish… Swear to God, those were the most dangerous words I knew.
Where I Belong is the emotional conclusion to Beth and Tommy's story and if possible, I enjoyed this installment even more than the first book. While we got a gritty and unapologetic look into Tommy's childhood inLost Without You, this book finally brings the answers to all the questions regarding Beth.
Beth has been living a fragile existence based on lies and hidden truths. Hiding from the world, hiding from her memories, she used her alter-ego, Jada, to deal with the hard stuff. Jada isn't like Beth; hard where she's soft, cynic where she's nostalgic. The only person capable of tearing through her walls is the boy from her past that she never stopped loving. But what happens to those carefully constructed walls when he wants Jada instead of Beth to hold his own heart back?
Where book one focused on their past, this one focuses on their present. The fragile trust that they've managed to rebuild and the lies that threaten to tear them apart. I fell hard for Tommy in the beginning but I felt even harder for him in this book. There's just something so fragile about him beneath the tough guy appearance. This is a man that wears his heart on his sleeve and would do anything for the girl he loves; even if it means sacrificing himself and his happiness. Man, but my heart broke for him. And with every new detail that gets unraveled, it broke even more.
Where I struggled a bit to understand Beth/Jada in the previous book, the puzzle piece really clicked into place with this one. You finally get why she is the way she is and why she made the choices she did. You want to judge her for them, but you can't.
This book brought many answers, but it also left just as many questions. I wanted to say that I felt fully satisfied with the ending, but there was something missing for me to make that statement completely true. It's clear that this marks the beginning of the series and we'll be getting a lot more answers with Simon (and then hopefully Carissa). The duet gives you a conclusion to the romance between Beth and Tommy but not the story. There's too many unanswered questions that you're left with at the end and I'm already salivating for more of the series. One thing is for sure, however, and it's that I'm addicted to Molly O'Keefe's words, and I can't wait for more!
ARC courtesy of author in exchange for an honest review
Find me on:
June 22, 2017
So, I hope we all remember what happened in book #1? I really hope so, because it would not mean good things for us if we already forgot!!! It came out a week ago!!! ☺☺☺
It ended with poor Tommy about to have to pay for not fulfilling his debt....
But phew - of course he got away.
He and Beth are on the run now. From her mom. The press. The bad guys.
And Beth leads Tommy to Peter. We all kind of know who Peter is from him being mentioned in the first book, but poor Tommy doesn't yet know. And Beth knows he will hate her once he finds out everything she never told him.
They're just starting to have something serious and maybe even a forever kind of thing....
She was where I belonged.
And I wasn't letting her go.
But all those lies and secrets and the debt-collector might stop us from getting our HEA!!!
WHAT WILL HAPPEN TO BETH & TOMMY?
WILL THERE FINALLY BE A HEA?
READ THE BOOK TO FIND OUT!!!! ☺
══════════════════════════
Yay! We're back with Tommy and Beth.
And their story is still as exciting as it was in the first book.
I loved every second of it.
Yes, there are bad moments and the future doesn't look all that good. But there's also this huge hope that Tommy and Beth might get their Happy End by the end of this book!
I just loved it!
It was super exciting and suspensy and heartbreakingly moving and adorable and very sexy and sweet and ... just an amazing book!!
WHERE I BELONG was the perfect finale to Beth & Tommy's lovestory! Sexy, adorable, heartbreakingly moving! Just amazing!
Hurry to your nearest amazon for your own Tommy - this one is MINE!!!
And P.S. Simon is getting his own story!!! ☺
♡
♡
♡
♡
June 24, 2017
Title: Where I Belong
Author: Molly O'Keefe
Category: Dark Romance
Series or Standalone: Series, Book #2
POV: Dual PoV, First Person
Plot: 4.5
Characters: 4.5
Scorching Level: 5
HEA: Not telling
December 4, 2017
I try to never miss a book by M. O'Keefe. She's one of the best writers at making small moments feel big, very sexy, and always edgy.
June 23, 2017
Holy wow. Tommy and Beth. Those two are messed up, but perfect for one another. The fact they spent seven years apart because of what happened *that night* is sort of heartbreaking. On the other hand, I don't think Tommy would have got the closure he needed if things hadn't worked out the way they did.
But let's backtrack for a second. When Tommy disregarded the orders he was given in terms of dropping Beth off, he put himself in a bad situation. BAD. Like, dudes are gunning for him and all that jazz. Considering Beth is a fairly well known pop star and they're still traveling together, this makes things problematic.
But Tommy can't walk away from Beth when she's in danger. So he sucks it up and they end up in the one place Tommy never dreamed he'd be. Literally never dreamed it. It was so far off his radar, it wasn't a blip. On top of that, he had Beth in his bed, but he's trying his hardest to shield his heart from the inevitable loss of her.
It's ROUGH.
Meanwhile, Beth is coming to terms with her own past. All of it. Her reasons for being at St. Jude's. What happened to all of them *that night*. She's been a pro at pushing everything aside, but things are bubbling to the surface and she has to choose between continuing to hide and losing Tommy for good or dealing with it all.
I REALLY liked these two. They're messed up and ragged around the edges, but they were right for one another.
Guess what? There are more debts that need to be paid. (Which I'm excited about! From a literary standpoint. I'm sure the characters will be dragged down and roughed up a bit, but that's what makes like FUN, isn't it?!?!)
-Kelly @ Reading the Paranormal
But let's backtrack for a second. When Tommy disregarded the orders he was given in terms of dropping Beth off, he put himself in a bad situation. BAD. Like, dudes are gunning for him and all that jazz. Considering Beth is a fairly well known pop star and they're still traveling together, this makes things problematic.
But Tommy can't walk away from Beth when she's in danger. So he sucks it up and they end up in the one place Tommy never dreamed he'd be. Literally never dreamed it. It was so far off his radar, it wasn't a blip. On top of that, he had Beth in his bed, but he's trying his hardest to shield his heart from the inevitable loss of her.
It's ROUGH.
Meanwhile, Beth is coming to terms with her own past. All of it. Her reasons for being at St. Jude's. What happened to all of them *that night*. She's been a pro at pushing everything aside, but things are bubbling to the surface and she has to choose between continuing to hide and losing Tommy for good or dealing with it all.
I REALLY liked these two. They're messed up and ragged around the edges, but they were right for one another.
Guess what? There are more debts that need to be paid. (Which I'm excited about! From a literary standpoint. I'm sure the characters will be dragged down and roughed up a bit, but that's what makes like FUN, isn't it?!?!)
-Kelly @ Reading the Paranormal
July 1, 2017
I wish GR had half stars so I could give this book 3.5 stars. I liked this book, but didn't love it. After the previous book, I was fairly invested in Beth and Tommy's story, but I felt a little let down.
I don't typically read a lot of rom suspense because it tends to be over the top dramatic. I felt that the conflict, aka the debt, was resolved too easily. I never felt like Beth and Tommy were really in danger.
I did enjoy the fact that Tommy didn't immediately forgive and forget the thing that Beth did to him. He moved on from it, but in a more realistic time frame and not romancelandia time frame, aka insta-forgiveness.
I was great to see Tommy find his worth and love for Beth. They both deserved to be able to wish for things and have them come true.
Looks like Simon's book is next, I have little to no interest in him. But I am really looking forward to Bates & Carissa. I will be waiting anxiously for that story.
I don't typically read a lot of rom suspense because it tends to be over the top dramatic. I felt that the conflict, aka the debt, was resolved too easily. I never felt like Beth and Tommy were really in danger.
I did enjoy the fact that Tommy didn't immediately forgive and forget the thing that Beth did to him. He moved on from it, but in a more realistic time frame and not romancelandia time frame, aka insta-forgiveness.
I was great to see Tommy find his worth and love for Beth. They both deserved to be able to wish for things and have them come true.
Looks like Simon's book is next, I have little to no interest in him. But I am really looking forward to Bates & Carissa. I will be waiting anxiously for that story.
July 6, 2017
Same as the first one. Didn't like H and h. Again safe, but the h kept too many secrets and the H was, imo, an asshole sometimes
June 26, 2017
This is the third book in this series so make sure you read The Debt and Lost Without You before you jump into this.
Tommy and Beth's story continues. As well as reading of their present story we read of why Beth ended up in St. Jude's all those years ago.
I love what the author did with this story. It brought all sorts of emotions out of me while reading it.
Looking forward to reading more from this author.
Tommy and Beth's story continues. As well as reading of their present story we read of why Beth ended up in St. Jude's all those years ago.
I love what the author did with this story. It brought all sorts of emotions out of me while reading it.
Looking forward to reading more from this author.
June 27, 2017
Originally posted at SmexyBooks-http://smexybooks.com/2017/06/review-...
Grade: B-
At the end of Lost Without You, we left Tommy and Beth on the run from Bates and Beth’s mother. Tommy knows they need a safe place to regroup and to explain things to Bates; especially when Beth’s mom goes on national television and claims Tommy kidnapped Beth. Beth has the perfect place for them to hide though once Tommy understands the significance of the place and it’s owner, he may never want to see her again.
“Rough was what I deserved from him. I needed him to punish me for the lies he didn’t know about yet.”
Where I Belong is the emotional conclusion to Tommy and Beth’s story and The Duet duology, though it is not the end of the arc. Remember, there are three more people who owe a debt to Bates for his help all those years ago. Tommy and Beth have reached a safe place and now it’s time for them to tell the truth to each other and themselves. We’ve already learned of Tommy’s horrific childhood in Lost Without You. In here, we learn Beth’s.
“You’re still that boy, waiting for your mom to come home, just like I’m still the girl waiting for my mom to hear me.”
Beth became Jada as a way to cope with the abuse from her mother and the horror she experienced at St. Judes that terrible night. Her mother, a famous child psychologist, used drugs and threats to keep Beth complacent and calm. When Beth bucked against her control and ran away, her mother had her arrested and sent to St. Judes. Afterward, Beth learned to hide and bide her time till she was old enough to leave without fear of arrest. Jada is tougher and edgier than Beth. She can handle anything thrown at her and allows ‘Beth’ the luxury of hiding and manipulating the truth in order to save her sanity.
“I was living on a wire that ran in a vicious circle. All at once.”
Focusing on the present, O’Keefe opens Beth and Tommy up with the skill and precision of a surgeon. We have played witness to their most painful confessions and now the fragile connection they have forged is threatened by more lies and omissions. Tommy and Beth’s journey broke my heart over and over though I admit to connecting easier with Tommy. His love for Beth is like a shining beacon of hope he clings to like a liferaft. He has signed his own death warrant in order to protect her. His every action and declaration slayed me a little more. He is definitely the more honest of the two though once you hear Beth’s story, the real one, I better understood some of the choices and decisions she made.
“We both screwed up. We were both scared. We lied and we kept secrets and we’re just…we’re going to stop.”
Sexually, this couple forges an unbreakable bond that in it’s lust and love will never be broken. No matter how many lies they tell themselves. New experiences and old resentments flow through them like a benediction.Though I enjoyed this aspect, I did feel that O’Keefe relied on it too much as building material and a growth chart of sorts for the story. We spend an inordinate amount of time with them in bed together and not enough time on the conflict. Which, in my opinion-resolved far too easily. Also, Bates uses the same threat in here as he did in the Bad Neighbors series with Jack which disappointed me a little.
O’Keefe ends on a positive note in terms of our hero and heroine. givings us the answers to most of the questions we were all asking, and leave us wondering on some others. Simon’s up next on the chopping block and I look forward to learning more about his backstory and who he will be rescuing. I have a feeling I know who his heroine will be but I think I’ll keep it to myself and see if I'm right.
Grade: B-
At the end of Lost Without You, we left Tommy and Beth on the run from Bates and Beth’s mother. Tommy knows they need a safe place to regroup and to explain things to Bates; especially when Beth’s mom goes on national television and claims Tommy kidnapped Beth. Beth has the perfect place for them to hide though once Tommy understands the significance of the place and it’s owner, he may never want to see her again.
“Rough was what I deserved from him. I needed him to punish me for the lies he didn’t know about yet.”
Where I Belong is the emotional conclusion to Tommy and Beth’s story and The Duet duology, though it is not the end of the arc. Remember, there are three more people who owe a debt to Bates for his help all those years ago. Tommy and Beth have reached a safe place and now it’s time for them to tell the truth to each other and themselves. We’ve already learned of Tommy’s horrific childhood in Lost Without You. In here, we learn Beth’s.
“You’re still that boy, waiting for your mom to come home, just like I’m still the girl waiting for my mom to hear me.”
Beth became Jada as a way to cope with the abuse from her mother and the horror she experienced at St. Judes that terrible night. Her mother, a famous child psychologist, used drugs and threats to keep Beth complacent and calm. When Beth bucked against her control and ran away, her mother had her arrested and sent to St. Judes. Afterward, Beth learned to hide and bide her time till she was old enough to leave without fear of arrest. Jada is tougher and edgier than Beth. She can handle anything thrown at her and allows ‘Beth’ the luxury of hiding and manipulating the truth in order to save her sanity.
“I was living on a wire that ran in a vicious circle. All at once.”
Focusing on the present, O’Keefe opens Beth and Tommy up with the skill and precision of a surgeon. We have played witness to their most painful confessions and now the fragile connection they have forged is threatened by more lies and omissions. Tommy and Beth’s journey broke my heart over and over though I admit to connecting easier with Tommy. His love for Beth is like a shining beacon of hope he clings to like a liferaft. He has signed his own death warrant in order to protect her. His every action and declaration slayed me a little more. He is definitely the more honest of the two though once you hear Beth’s story, the real one, I better understood some of the choices and decisions she made.
“We both screwed up. We were both scared. We lied and we kept secrets and we’re just…we’re going to stop.”
Sexually, this couple forges an unbreakable bond that in it’s lust and love will never be broken. No matter how many lies they tell themselves. New experiences and old resentments flow through them like a benediction.Though I enjoyed this aspect, I did feel that O’Keefe relied on it too much as building material and a growth chart of sorts for the story. We spend an inordinate amount of time with them in bed together and not enough time on the conflict. Which, in my opinion-resolved far too easily. Also, Bates uses the same threat in here as he did in the Bad Neighbors series with Jack which disappointed me a little.
O’Keefe ends on a positive note in terms of our hero and heroine. givings us the answers to most of the questions we were all asking, and leave us wondering on some others. Simon’s up next on the chopping block and I look forward to learning more about his backstory and who he will be rescuing. I have a feeling I know who his heroine will be but I think I’ll keep it to myself and see if I'm right.
June 25, 2017
Where I Belong is the continuing love story between Tommy and Beth. The first book, Lost Without You starts us out on the journey for these two kids turned adults who've survived the days, months, as kids at St Jude's home for juveniles. Nothing good happened in that home so don't let the name fool you. Though they'd gotten out, the scars run deep. Tommy and Beth reconnected in that first book but lots of story, truths, remain to be unburied before these two have a chance at moving on- together or apart.
Where I Belong is written in dual point of view and crosses quite a bit of ground and challenges. The debts owed from years ago still lurk for Tommy until they're paid and a fair share of secrets threaten their second chance in happiness. The book was seriously suspenseful and though the secrets seemed a bit odd and far-fetched, I still loved this hard-on-their-luck second chance romance. Along with the suspense, we are gifted with Molly O'Keefe's insane level of steam.
The main reason this book wasn't perfect for me was not only the details of secrets withheld but the ending seems just a tad too easy-peasy, wrapped up in a bow concluded. Molly O'Keefe has left the door open for future books, specifically Simon, but I'm most hopeful for a Carissa or Bates book. Patience is a virtue and luckily Ms. O'Keefe writes fairly fast.
Advanced copy received by author in exchange for my honest review.
July 12, 2017
I'm still not sure how I feel about this one. I liked it but ( the famous but ) I don't think it warranted a second book to be honest, nothing that happened in this one couldn't have been in the first, it was all one monotoned throughout, no high drama happened.
Don't get me wrong, these are enjoyable characters, I was glad to know them, it just fell a little flat for me. The only time I got excited was when Bates was on the page.
Please, on all that is holy and sinful please let this man have a book with Carissa! I feel it!! I want to ship it!
Don't get me wrong, these are enjoyable characters, I was glad to know them, it just fell a little flat for me. The only time I got excited was when Bates was on the page.
Please, on all that is holy and sinful please let this man have a book with Carissa! I feel it!! I want to ship it!
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June 26, 2017
I received an ARC
This starts just before the end of the Lost Without You. Tommy is driving Beth back to LA. They have stopped at a truck stop. Beth goes to get food and sees her mom all over TV, talking about how she is a danger to herself and how she has been kidnapped. There are recent pics of Beth and Tommy from the shopping trips they made. Beth hightails it out of the restaurant to find Tommy.
Meanwhile, Tommy is dealing with Bate's goons who have found him. He manages to get out of his predicament. They jump in the truck. Beth suggests they head to a place she used to go when she first ran away from her mom.
While in the car, Tommy calls Carissa and says that Beth's mom isn't what she seems and that Beth is safe and getting off drugs, like rehab would have done. Carissa warns Tommy that Bates is going to want proof.
They drive from Arizona to a farm near Santa Barbara. Beth spills the story of her mom. How she was a child psychiatrist but used all sorts of drugs to keeps problems kids quiet and normal. She labelled Beth with all sorts of conditions and gave her all sorts of unnecessary drugs until Beth refused and ran away. That was how Beth came to be at St. Jokes.
Beth introduces Tommy to a crusty old man named Peter, who seems very taken aback by Tommy. Tommy assumes that Peter just doesn't like anyone who shows up. Beth unfortunately knows there is more to it than that and feels guilty for keeping secrets from Tommy. They decide to stay for two days and then head back to LA.
At lunch, Tommy tells his story. How his mom died and he ended up in foster care and ultimately at St. Joke's. The lunch Peter served reminded him of picnics his mom used to make for him.
Tommy discovers who Peter really is, that Beth knew all along and he leaves the farm. He heads to SF to face Bates and explain why he did what he did. However, Beth has sent a message out on You Tube telling about her mother and how Tommy saved her. Bates considers the debt paid but warns Tommy to leave SF.
Beth and Tommy reunite. They both decide that they need to stop doing what they have been doing and start living. Tommy always told Beth that wishes were dangerous things. But together they decide to wish.
The book ends with them back visiting Peter. But while eating lunch, Tommy gets a text- Bates has visited Simon....
Loved this book. We learned about how Tommy and Beth came to be at St Jokes and why Beth feared her creepy mom so much. Carissa and her relationship to Bates is still a mystery. And now Simon has to pay his debt.
This starts just before the end of the Lost Without You. Tommy is driving Beth back to LA. They have stopped at a truck stop. Beth goes to get food and sees her mom all over TV, talking about how she is a danger to herself and how she has been kidnapped. There are recent pics of Beth and Tommy from the shopping trips they made. Beth hightails it out of the restaurant to find Tommy.
Meanwhile, Tommy is dealing with Bate's goons who have found him. He manages to get out of his predicament. They jump in the truck. Beth suggests they head to a place she used to go when she first ran away from her mom.
While in the car, Tommy calls Carissa and says that Beth's mom isn't what she seems and that Beth is safe and getting off drugs, like rehab would have done. Carissa warns Tommy that Bates is going to want proof.
They drive from Arizona to a farm near Santa Barbara. Beth spills the story of her mom. How she was a child psychiatrist but used all sorts of drugs to keeps problems kids quiet and normal. She labelled Beth with all sorts of conditions and gave her all sorts of unnecessary drugs until Beth refused and ran away. That was how Beth came to be at St. Jokes.
Beth introduces Tommy to a crusty old man named Peter, who seems very taken aback by Tommy. Tommy assumes that Peter just doesn't like anyone who shows up. Beth unfortunately knows there is more to it than that and feels guilty for keeping secrets from Tommy. They decide to stay for two days and then head back to LA.
At lunch, Tommy tells his story. How his mom died and he ended up in foster care and ultimately at St. Joke's. The lunch Peter served reminded him of picnics his mom used to make for him.
Tommy discovers who Peter really is, that Beth knew all along and he leaves the farm. He heads to SF to face Bates and explain why he did what he did. However, Beth has sent a message out on You Tube telling about her mother and how Tommy saved her. Bates considers the debt paid but warns Tommy to leave SF.
Beth and Tommy reunite. They both decide that they need to stop doing what they have been doing and start living. Tommy always told Beth that wishes were dangerous things. But together they decide to wish.
The book ends with them back visiting Peter. But while eating lunch, Tommy gets a text- Bates has visited Simon....
Loved this book. We learned about how Tommy and Beth came to be at St Jokes and why Beth feared her creepy mom so much. Carissa and her relationship to Bates is still a mystery. And now Simon has to pay his debt.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
June 26, 2017
Out of this world conclusion to the utterly heart-wrenching love between Tommy and Beth. Getting right back into the story where we left off in Lost Without You, it's literally a race against time and those who want to cause them harm. I was continually amazed at how many layers this story continued to shed with each turn of the page. The relentless stops and starts where Tommy's and Beth's heart were concerned had my own gasping for air right along with them. A surprise in the form of a savior completely caught me off guard and would prove to be both the key to their hopeful happy as well as the deepest pain both would have to survive.
I couldn't get enough. A book I did not want to end. My emotions were all over the place and I was still desperate for more. To watch as they hopelessly fall even harder for one another, despite all the pain, the lies, the longing and the danger. Tommy and Beth simply fit and although their road to a bliss they could live with was full of so much despair, I felt the small doses of joy that radiated between them.
What I love most about this author and her books is that the stories might be full of complexities but somehow they maintain a simplicity that holds on tight to your soul. You want what Tommy and Beth want and at the very core of it all is love. Whether it's for each other or for a dog named Pest, love is never taken for granted.
To get to see what has happened to the scared 5some from the novella, The Debt, who struggled just to live at that horrific center for kids has been one helluva adventure. I can't recommend this book and series, highly enough. It's a must read and I'm so happy we'll get a bit more of the St. Joke's kids with what looks to be Simon's book next.
Grab it. Devour it. Love it. You won't be able to put it down.
5 huge stars!
I couldn't get enough. A book I did not want to end. My emotions were all over the place and I was still desperate for more. To watch as they hopelessly fall even harder for one another, despite all the pain, the lies, the longing and the danger. Tommy and Beth simply fit and although their road to a bliss they could live with was full of so much despair, I felt the small doses of joy that radiated between them.
What I love most about this author and her books is that the stories might be full of complexities but somehow they maintain a simplicity that holds on tight to your soul. You want what Tommy and Beth want and at the very core of it all is love. Whether it's for each other or for a dog named Pest, love is never taken for granted.
To get to see what has happened to the scared 5some from the novella, The Debt, who struggled just to live at that horrific center for kids has been one helluva adventure. I can't recommend this book and series, highly enough. It's a must read and I'm so happy we'll get a bit more of the St. Joke's kids with what looks to be Simon's book next.
Grab it. Devour it. Love it. You won't be able to put it down.
5 huge stars!
June 29, 2017
This book picks up right where the other one left off and was the best book of the series, by far, and The Debt and Lost Without You were both fantastic 5 star reads in their own right! The chemistry between Tommy and Beth/Jada is just a sizzling hot as ever. The love they have for each other is just as breathtaking. And the scars they each carry from the past are just as heart-wrenching as they ever were, if not more so.
Two simple words are what this part of Tommy and Beth's story is built around "I wish..." Each of them wants to wish for a future together. Each of them wants share the secrets and lies and love they hold in their heart. But, because of the horrors of the past, each is too afraid to wish for anything more than what they have from one minute to the next. Each is afraid to trust the other with the darkest part of themselves. Each is afraid to let the other help them heal from the hurts of the past. In addition to navigating their personal wants and feelings, throw in running from Bates, who is still trying to collect on "the debt", and Beth's psycho mother, who wants to totally control Beth like a drugged puppet, and you have a tornado of action, suspense and emotions.
The plot of this book moved at a very rapid pace and kept me captivated and spellbound during the entire wild, steamy, twisty, angsty, heart-rending ride. Tommy and Beth's story is simply addicting. I was also excited to see it hinted at that Simon might get his own story. Yes, MORE PLEASE!
*I received a complimentary ARC of this book in order to read and provide a voluntary, unbiased and honest review, should I choose to do so.
Two simple words are what this part of Tommy and Beth's story is built around "I wish..." Each of them wants to wish for a future together. Each of them wants share the secrets and lies and love they hold in their heart. But, because of the horrors of the past, each is too afraid to wish for anything more than what they have from one minute to the next. Each is afraid to trust the other with the darkest part of themselves. Each is afraid to let the other help them heal from the hurts of the past. In addition to navigating their personal wants and feelings, throw in running from Bates, who is still trying to collect on "the debt", and Beth's psycho mother, who wants to totally control Beth like a drugged puppet, and you have a tornado of action, suspense and emotions.
The plot of this book moved at a very rapid pace and kept me captivated and spellbound during the entire wild, steamy, twisty, angsty, heart-rending ride. Tommy and Beth's story is simply addicting. I was also excited to see it hinted at that Simon might get his own story. Yes, MORE PLEASE!
*I received a complimentary ARC of this book in order to read and provide a voluntary, unbiased and honest review, should I choose to do so.
June 26, 2017
4.5 ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
The conclusion of Tommy and Beth's story is here and get for a wild ride. Molly O'Keefe picks up where she left off in Lost Without You and the anticipation of finding out what will happen next will keep you on your toes. Not only are you drawn to Tommy and Beth you will be pulled into two different directions as they work out their own demons and struggles.
Tommy knows he has screwed up by not taking Beth to the rehab center where her mother was waiting. And after one night with Beth he knows they need to go their separate ways. While he tries to figure out what his next move will be, he knows he has to figure it out quick because Bates men are already finding him.
Beth can't believe that she is with Tommy again after all these years and knows that their one night together will be all they can ever have, especially with her mother looking for her again. And once she sees that her mother has told the news she was kidnapped, she and Tommy need to find a place to lay low.
Beth takes Tommy to her sanctuary she found years ago when she finally got away from her mother. Once she gets him there she begins to rethink her decision especially when Peter, the man who helped her all those years ago, tells her she wasn't thinking when she brought Tommy with her.
Tommy can't deny his feelings for Beth and finally gives in to them. But there is something about Peter that Tommy just can't ignore. Beth knows she is on borrowed time and once Tommy finds out what she has been hiding from him, she will never see him again.
They will both have to decide if their love for each other is enough to over come everything that threatens to tear them apart for good.
*thank you to the author for providing an arc*
The conclusion of Tommy and Beth's story is here and get for a wild ride. Molly O'Keefe picks up where she left off in Lost Without You and the anticipation of finding out what will happen next will keep you on your toes. Not only are you drawn to Tommy and Beth you will be pulled into two different directions as they work out their own demons and struggles.
Tommy knows he has screwed up by not taking Beth to the rehab center where her mother was waiting. And after one night with Beth he knows they need to go their separate ways. While he tries to figure out what his next move will be, he knows he has to figure it out quick because Bates men are already finding him.
Beth can't believe that she is with Tommy again after all these years and knows that their one night together will be all they can ever have, especially with her mother looking for her again. And once she sees that her mother has told the news she was kidnapped, she and Tommy need to find a place to lay low.
Beth takes Tommy to her sanctuary she found years ago when she finally got away from her mother. Once she gets him there she begins to rethink her decision especially when Peter, the man who helped her all those years ago, tells her she wasn't thinking when she brought Tommy with her.
Tommy can't deny his feelings for Beth and finally gives in to them. But there is something about Peter that Tommy just can't ignore. Beth knows she is on borrowed time and once Tommy finds out what she has been hiding from him, she will never see him again.
They will both have to decide if their love for each other is enough to over come everything that threatens to tear them apart for good.
*thank you to the author for providing an arc*
October 22, 2017
The romance in this book felt very epic and grand to me. It is talking about young teenage lovers finding true love under horrific circumstances and their reunion after 7 years apart.
I love that the hero and heroines are broken and imperfect in the most endearing ways. They have lived through hell and came out fighting and kicking. They wear their scars like a badge of honor and I admired their strength, tenacity and grit.
The story lines are gritty and characters are dark. There are suspense and secrets through out the book, the sex is steamy and characters are vivid. This is not the book for those who likes fluffy light-hearted romance that is filled with beautiful people cooing beautiful verses to each other and make perfect beautiful love in silk sheets. No! This book is raw, dark and messy.
Originally I hesitate to read the book, after reading book 0.5 “The Debt”, I was thinking the book will be too dark for me. But book 1 & 2, isn’t as bad as I thought it would be. It is suspenseful but I wouldn’t think there are any serious triggers.
I love that the hero and heroines are broken and imperfect in the most endearing ways. They have lived through hell and came out fighting and kicking. They wear their scars like a badge of honor and I admired their strength, tenacity and grit.
The story lines are gritty and characters are dark. There are suspense and secrets through out the book, the sex is steamy and characters are vivid. This is not the book for those who likes fluffy light-hearted romance that is filled with beautiful people cooing beautiful verses to each other and make perfect beautiful love in silk sheets. No! This book is raw, dark and messy.
Originally I hesitate to read the book, after reading book 0.5 “The Debt”, I was thinking the book will be too dark for me. But book 1 & 2, isn’t as bad as I thought it would be. It is suspenseful but I wouldn’t think there are any serious triggers.
June 25, 2017
This is the emotional conclusion for these really messed up individuals. Beth and Tommy come to grips with what is happening in the present in this and with them on the run they will have to face their past too. Can they ultimately learn to forgive each other and themselves and also learn to wish again? When that happens they will be able to figure out where they belong...
Of course, you don't want to read this one if you didn't read the first one! READ THEM BOTH, I recommend it.
**Received an ARC for review**
Of course, you don't want to read this one if you didn't read the first one! READ THEM BOTH, I recommend it.
**Received an ARC for review**
July 12, 2017
Crazysauce covered WTFery; this was a mind-twisting run of Tommy and Beth's love story. I was thrown so many times - by Beth's transformation into a pop star, Peter's secret, Carissa's re-emergence, and so on. Basically, every new plot point made my head spin. I was fairly exhausted by the time Tommy and Beth got to their HFNish HEA, but good golly, I am so ready for Simon's story.
September 18, 2019
Loved this!!
A great conclusion to Tommy & Beth’s story.
After finishing this, I understood these troubled characters better, and fell in love with them even more.
I’m so invested in this saga and all of the characters. I’m very eager to read Simon’s story. And good lord...Bates. That guy. I need his story YESTERDAY.
A great conclusion to Tommy & Beth’s story.
After finishing this, I understood these troubled characters better, and fell in love with them even more.
I’m so invested in this saga and all of the characters. I’m very eager to read Simon’s story. And good lord...Bates. That guy. I need his story YESTERDAY.
July 10, 2017
4 Stars
June 26, 2017
Last year when I reviewed Everything I Left Unsaid by M. O'Keefe, I said that "there are layers that build the tension, descriptions that make your heart ache, prose that makes the mundane beautiful." I felt the same emotional draw from this story as well.
This story continues where Lost Without You leaves off. Beth and Tommy are two traumatized adults after "surviving" an abusive foster home at "St. Jokes." The terrible events are difficult enough to live with, but what is even harder is the protective layers each builds up to survive without each other. Neither used the phrase, "I wish" because it implies a hope neither of them have. They don't wish, they don't hope, and they surround themselves with lies because the stark reality of life without each other makes it difficult to imagine a future.
Molly O'Keefe is a master of writing love stories that encompass the deepest pains. This is no superficial story. These characters are stuck and are in a vortex that keeps them spinning around. There is no closure until they find their way back to each other. Sometimes, the weight of their struggles weighs heavy on the reader as well. However, the author gives us a happy ending that is all the more beautiful after coming through the dark.
If you are looking for a light, easy read. This book may not be for you. If you are looking for something engrossing that we make you feel a gamut of emotions, this is a book for you.
This story continues where Lost Without You leaves off. Beth and Tommy are two traumatized adults after "surviving" an abusive foster home at "St. Jokes." The terrible events are difficult enough to live with, but what is even harder is the protective layers each builds up to survive without each other. Neither used the phrase, "I wish" because it implies a hope neither of them have. They don't wish, they don't hope, and they surround themselves with lies because the stark reality of life without each other makes it difficult to imagine a future.
Molly O'Keefe is a master of writing love stories that encompass the deepest pains. This is no superficial story. These characters are stuck and are in a vortex that keeps them spinning around. There is no closure until they find their way back to each other. Sometimes, the weight of their struggles weighs heavy on the reader as well. However, the author gives us a happy ending that is all the more beautiful after coming through the dark.
If you are looking for a light, easy read. This book may not be for you. If you are looking for something engrossing that we make you feel a gamut of emotions, this is a book for you.
June 21, 2017
Rated 3.5 Stars
Where I Belong wasn't what I expected at all but enjoyed it nonetheless especially watching Tommy and Beth overcome every challenge put before them and of course their sexy times. All in all I thought it was a good ending to this duology.
ARC provided by author in exchange for a honest review
Where I Belong wasn't what I expected at all but enjoyed it nonetheless especially watching Tommy and Beth overcome every challenge put before them and of course their sexy times. All in all I thought it was a good ending to this duology.
ARC provided by author in exchange for a honest review
June 24, 2017
Wishes aren't feasible when a debt hangs over your head. Wishes are powerful weapons when in your past wishing has only led to heartbreak. Wishes, like drugs, are addictive making you feel like anything is possible, but when reality strikes and the high wears off you are only left wishing for more wishes.
It is best never to begin wishing in the first place.
We pick up Where I Belong right where Tommy and Beth left off in Lost Without You, on the run from Bates' goons because Tommy didn't finish paying off his debt when he first kidnapped Beth then didn't deliver her to rehab where her mother was waiting for her at the door.
All of this may seem logical if you haven't read the first book, troubled guy on the run because he didn't drop off a girl to her mother at a rehab facility. Oh no, that doesn't even scratch the surface of what is happening. I highly recommend that if you haven't read the first book, you need to do it before jumping into the conclusion. Not only will Where I Belong make a lot more sense, but the entire series is a phenomenal read from start to finish. Gripping the pages, or ereader of your choice, from the very first page until the very end kind of read.
Where I Belong delves into the twisted lives of Tommy and Beth. You learn more about their backstory and what shaped them into the people they are today. And when I say twisted I mean how their lives have intersected at various points along their journey to where they are now. I love to believe that destiny has a way of pulling us towards the people that belong in our lives no matter how much we stray from the path, something is always there to pull us back even if it is a wish upon a star.
Tommy and Beth may break each other with a simple wish. Lies and deceit aren't erased by wishes. Love doesn't happen by making a wish. Mistakes can't be corrected by closing our eyes and wishing everything was better.
Wishes are best never wished at all.
The debt Tommy owes never leaves their minds as new problems surface. As much as the temptation is to live off the grid and never return to civilization, both Tommy and Beth know that reality doesn't work that way. Wishing for something never works in the long run.
Your heart will break numerous times for these two people wondering how things could possibly turn out in the long run, but keep in mind that wishing on a falling star may work every once in awhile.
Pick up the entire series and read it today. You will not be disappointed in reading The Debt, Lost Without You, and Where I Belong.
It is best never to begin wishing in the first place.
We pick up Where I Belong right where Tommy and Beth left off in Lost Without You, on the run from Bates' goons because Tommy didn't finish paying off his debt when he first kidnapped Beth then didn't deliver her to rehab where her mother was waiting for her at the door.
All of this may seem logical if you haven't read the first book, troubled guy on the run because he didn't drop off a girl to her mother at a rehab facility. Oh no, that doesn't even scratch the surface of what is happening. I highly recommend that if you haven't read the first book, you need to do it before jumping into the conclusion. Not only will Where I Belong make a lot more sense, but the entire series is a phenomenal read from start to finish. Gripping the pages, or ereader of your choice, from the very first page until the very end kind of read.
Where I Belong delves into the twisted lives of Tommy and Beth. You learn more about their backstory and what shaped them into the people they are today. And when I say twisted I mean how their lives have intersected at various points along their journey to where they are now. I love to believe that destiny has a way of pulling us towards the people that belong in our lives no matter how much we stray from the path, something is always there to pull us back even if it is a wish upon a star.
Tommy and Beth may break each other with a simple wish. Lies and deceit aren't erased by wishes. Love doesn't happen by making a wish. Mistakes can't be corrected by closing our eyes and wishing everything was better.
Wishes are best never wished at all.
The debt Tommy owes never leaves their minds as new problems surface. As much as the temptation is to live off the grid and never return to civilization, both Tommy and Beth know that reality doesn't work that way. Wishing for something never works in the long run.
Your heart will break numerous times for these two people wondering how things could possibly turn out in the long run, but keep in mind that wishing on a falling star may work every once in awhile.
Pick up the entire series and read it today. You will not be disappointed in reading The Debt, Lost Without You, and Where I Belong.
dnf
June 10, 2022DNF at 72%
I probably should have DNFed after Beth I can't stand lies of omission but I was trying to give her the benefit of the doubt and hoped it wouldn’t last long or go the predictable route. Even though I know better! The plot choices are fairly emotionally manipulative, which is unfortunate because this story could do some interesting things around trauma responses and learning new healthy patterns. These two could definitely use it. I’m a bit worried about how soon they declared love for one another when they’ve only been back in each other’s lives for a week—and that’s only because he kidnapped her. (He had reasons.) There’s not enough room left to depict any sort of healing for these characters after all the trauma the author has piled on them. It’s unfortunate all around.
Characters: Tommy is a 23 year old white mason. He has a dog named Pest. Beth is a 23 year old white redheaded pop singer (stage name Jada) and former makeup artist. This is set in California and Arizona.
Content notes: past rape, past child abuse by foster parents (starvation and physical abuse of MMC, emotional abuse of all foster kids), past child neglect and emotional abuse by MMC’s mother, FMC went through recent detox (abused prescription medication), past substance abuse (MMC has been sober 5 years), FMC’s mother is abusive and trying to reinsert herself into her life, past medical abuse by FMC’s mom, (mom overmedicated FMC and also drugged and institutionalized kids as a child psychiatrist), past ableism by FMC’s mother (claimed her treatment would help families with neurodiverse or mentally ill children be “normal”), MMC kidnapped FMC in book 1, physical fight, past panic attacks and anxiety, past teen homelessness (ran away multiple times), past death of MMC’s mother (overdose/substance abuse), MMC’s mother had bipolar and past suicide attempt, past death of secondary character’s wife (stomach cancer), MMC’s grandparents gave up their rights so he went into foster care, MMC’s first foster father died two years after placement, pet dog accidentally hurts other pet dog (minor injuries), on page sex, mutual masturbation, alcohol (secondary character), brief slut-shaming (countered), ableist language, hyperbolic language around suicide
I probably should have DNFed after Beth I can't stand lies of omission but I was trying to give her the benefit of the doubt and hoped it wouldn’t last long or go the predictable route. Even though I know better! The plot choices are fairly emotionally manipulative, which is unfortunate because this story could do some interesting things around trauma responses and learning new healthy patterns. These two could definitely use it. I’m a bit worried about how soon they declared love for one another when they’ve only been back in each other’s lives for a week—and that’s only because he kidnapped her. (He had reasons.) There’s not enough room left to depict any sort of healing for these characters after all the trauma the author has piled on them. It’s unfortunate all around.
Characters: Tommy is a 23 year old white mason. He has a dog named Pest. Beth is a 23 year old white redheaded pop singer (stage name Jada) and former makeup artist. This is set in California and Arizona.
Content notes: past rape, past child abuse by foster parents (starvation and physical abuse of MMC, emotional abuse of all foster kids), past child neglect and emotional abuse by MMC’s mother, FMC went through recent detox (abused prescription medication), past substance abuse (MMC has been sober 5 years), FMC’s mother is abusive and trying to reinsert herself into her life, past medical abuse by FMC’s mom, (mom overmedicated FMC and also drugged and institutionalized kids as a child psychiatrist), past ableism by FMC’s mother (claimed her treatment would help families with neurodiverse or mentally ill children be “normal”), MMC kidnapped FMC in book 1, physical fight, past panic attacks and anxiety, past teen homelessness (ran away multiple times), past death of MMC’s mother (overdose/substance abuse), MMC’s mother had bipolar and past suicide attempt, past death of secondary character’s wife (stomach cancer), MMC’s grandparents gave up their rights so he went into foster care, MMC’s first foster father died two years after placement, pet dog accidentally hurts other pet dog (minor injuries), on page sex, mutual masturbation, alcohol (secondary character), brief slut-shaming (countered), ableist language, hyperbolic language around suicide
July 5, 2017
4.5 stars
WHERE I BELONG is the conclusion of Beth and Tommy’s story. In this book, we get to know about Beth’s background, all our questions about her are answered.
Beth has suffered since a child. The only person who had to take care of her, failed her. She built this armor so no one can hurt her again. That is why she has created "Jada". Jada is not like Beth, she is confident and no one can harm her. But when Beth met with Tommy again, the walls she so securely constructed came crumbling down. He is the only one who has met her, and now it is time for Beth to tell Tommy all her secrets. But there is one secret that she is keeping from him that she knows after he finds it out, he won’t be able to forgive her.
Beth and Tommy are still running away, they need to find a safe place to stay because Bates is still looking for them, and Beth knows the right place where no one will found them but she also knows that Tommy won’t be happy when he finds out where they are going.
Tommy is tired of “wishing” and “hoping” in his life, but now with Beth so close to him, he wants to wish again, he wants a future with her. But he is so tired of lies, so when he finds out that Beth is hiding something very important, he just leaves her and goes to Bates to pay his debt. Beth is going to have to deal with her past in order to have a future with Tommy, that is the only way they could be together.
I love how Molly can give us a love story after all the pain. I’m glad Beth & Tommy got their HEA. I do still think that there is something missing at the end. There still are unanswered questions but I guess we will get them on the following books. The debt is not paid yet and now it’s time for Simon to payback. Can’t wait for more of Molly’s books.
WHERE I BELONG is the conclusion of Beth and Tommy’s story. In this book, we get to know about Beth’s background, all our questions about her are answered.
Beth has suffered since a child. The only person who had to take care of her, failed her. She built this armor so no one can hurt her again. That is why she has created "Jada". Jada is not like Beth, she is confident and no one can harm her. But when Beth met with Tommy again, the walls she so securely constructed came crumbling down. He is the only one who has met her, and now it is time for Beth to tell Tommy all her secrets. But there is one secret that she is keeping from him that she knows after he finds it out, he won’t be able to forgive her.
Beth and Tommy are still running away, they need to find a safe place to stay because Bates is still looking for them, and Beth knows the right place where no one will found them but she also knows that Tommy won’t be happy when he finds out where they are going.
Tommy is tired of “wishing” and “hoping” in his life, but now with Beth so close to him, he wants to wish again, he wants a future with her. But he is so tired of lies, so when he finds out that Beth is hiding something very important, he just leaves her and goes to Bates to pay his debt. Beth is going to have to deal with her past in order to have a future with Tommy, that is the only way they could be together.
I love how Molly can give us a love story after all the pain. I’m glad Beth & Tommy got their HEA. I do still think that there is something missing at the end. There still are unanswered questions but I guess we will get them on the following books. The debt is not paid yet and now it’s time for Simon to payback. Can’t wait for more of Molly’s books.
July 19, 2017
We pick up right where we left off, if you have not read The Debt (FREE pre-novella) and Lost Without You grab them now and catch up with us!!! You don’t want to miss out on this series at all! If you haven’t read book 1 yet do not read this review as it may contain spoilers!!! Be prepared to have some questions answered!!!
Lost Without You left us wondering just what in the actual hell was going on and how could this story twist anymore. So much happens between Tommy and Beth this time around, physically and emotionally. They struggle with their feelings in the midst of the shit storm they have found themselves in the middle of.
Tommy is still this young boy who just wants to save everyone around him, even if it means sacrificing himself. He doesn’t feel worthy of what we can see that he deserves and it’s heartbreaking. He constantly wars with himself over what he should do, what he should want and how he should feel. His love for Beth is so obvious but he just doesn’t let himself be happy.
“My imagination when it comes to you?” He shook his head. “It’s never enough. You are always more than I could ever imagine. Always.”
“No matter who I dated. Or loved. Or had sex with. Beth got there first.”
Beth is just as lost and confused as Tommy. She is caught between being Jada and Beth, the persona she has been hiding behind and the woman she is meant to be. Beth struggles just like Tommy, the same inner war and emotions that bubble to the surface but don’t get spoken aloud. She doesn’t see how special she is and thinks that she doesn’t deserve Tommy.
“But rough was what I deserved from him. I needed him to punish me for the lies he didn’t know about yet.”
I don’t think we ever rooted for a couple as much as we did for these too. So much pain and a past that weighs down their future. Their struggles were powerful as they tried to overcome so much of what shaped them as children to whom they are today. We could not put this series down, it sucks you in and makes you want it all. You will experience anger, fear and sadness. You will want to scream, hide and cry. And it is all totally worth it! Be sure to grab this series today, M. O’Keefe, BRAVO!!
Lost Without You left us wondering just what in the actual hell was going on and how could this story twist anymore. So much happens between Tommy and Beth this time around, physically and emotionally. They struggle with their feelings in the midst of the shit storm they have found themselves in the middle of.
Tommy is still this young boy who just wants to save everyone around him, even if it means sacrificing himself. He doesn’t feel worthy of what we can see that he deserves and it’s heartbreaking. He constantly wars with himself over what he should do, what he should want and how he should feel. His love for Beth is so obvious but he just doesn’t let himself be happy.
“My imagination when it comes to you?” He shook his head. “It’s never enough. You are always more than I could ever imagine. Always.”
“No matter who I dated. Or loved. Or had sex with. Beth got there first.”
Beth is just as lost and confused as Tommy. She is caught between being Jada and Beth, the persona she has been hiding behind and the woman she is meant to be. Beth struggles just like Tommy, the same inner war and emotions that bubble to the surface but don’t get spoken aloud. She doesn’t see how special she is and thinks that she doesn’t deserve Tommy.
“But rough was what I deserved from him. I needed him to punish me for the lies he didn’t know about yet.”
I don’t think we ever rooted for a couple as much as we did for these too. So much pain and a past that weighs down their future. Their struggles were powerful as they tried to overcome so much of what shaped them as children to whom they are today. We could not put this series down, it sucks you in and makes you want it all. You will experience anger, fear and sadness. You will want to scream, hide and cry. And it is all totally worth it! Be sure to grab this series today, M. O’Keefe, BRAVO!!
June 26, 2017
After reading Lost Without You, I wanted this book immediately! I'm so glad it came out so soon after the last released because I hate waiting, and I wanted to see Tommy and Beth have their happy ending! This book continues right where the last book finished, and I think it's necessary to read the previous book first to get the full picture. Tommy's debt is still hanging over his head, and Tommy and Beth have suffered immensely, their upbringings weren't ideal, and their pasts have affected their current lives. Neither feels deserving of the other, so they don't verbally express what they feeling for fear of getting hurt, but Tommy and Beth need to fight past the facades they put up, and be real with each other, or they could really lose the best thing in their lives; each other. As I was reading, I was thinking there would be more drama from outside forces, but I quickly realized this book didn't need to go that route; this book shows two people fighting themselves to find their idea of happiness. This book is about the characters; their past, their pain, their struggle, and their hearts. The level of passion and connection that Tommy and Beth have is incendiary and intense, but also so sweet. These two steam up the pages! They both love so deeply and completely, and I just wanted to reach into the book and shake them, and tell them to wise up! Love like theirs doesn't come along very often, so stop the B.S. and stop letting petty things affect them, but oh how I loved it all! If you loved the first book, you'll love this one. I love Tommy so much! He's such a sweetheart, and I just wanted to give him a big hug and tell him he's wonderful! Okay, I'm rambling now, sorry! But anyway, loved this book, love M. O'Keefe's writing, and I'm totally excited to see how the others will deal with their debts!
June 29, 2017
“I Wish…..”
Oh. My. Gosh. This is angsty, a bit dark, and full of raw, intense emotions that will break your heart. It’s a story of two broken souls that finally come together to heal from a painful past. They are survivors of the same appalling circumstances of neglectful parenting and abusive people whose job was to protect them as children but instead, were evil and depraved monsters.
This story picks up where the first book, Lost Without You, ends with Tommy and Beth trying to outrun the thugs Bates had sent to deal with them. Desperate to find safety, Beth leads Tommy to the one place she knows will just crush him. The place had been a haven for Beth, a home where she needed to find herself. Since Tommy was there at the cabin to help Beth detox from the drugs in her body, it was her turn to help him from getting killed. But will Tommy recover from Beth’s betrayal?
My heart broke mostly for Tommy. He’d always looked out for all the other kids, and felt it was dangerous to wish for anything for himself. He knew whatever he wished for would always be taken away. But now with the realization of the one person he truly loved, he wished for Beth and happiness in his life.
I loved the whole process of these two reconnecting, trying to find a middle ground where the pain of remembrance would not be too hurtful. And trusting enough in each other to finally share a bit of their own childhood. There are plenty of revelations and surprises. I cheered when Beth finally found her inner strength to save Tommy, and it was a tidy resolution. The steamy scenes were intense and filled with chemistry, and my heart just poured out for these two. It’s so good, and I felt drained after reading it. But there is forgiveness and love. Where I Belong is well written and intensely emotional. I recommend this story, and Lost Without You should be read first. I’m looking forward to Simon’s story next.
I received and voluntarily reviewed an ARC of this book.
Oh. My. Gosh. This is angsty, a bit dark, and full of raw, intense emotions that will break your heart. It’s a story of two broken souls that finally come together to heal from a painful past. They are survivors of the same appalling circumstances of neglectful parenting and abusive people whose job was to protect them as children but instead, were evil and depraved monsters.
This story picks up where the first book, Lost Without You, ends with Tommy and Beth trying to outrun the thugs Bates had sent to deal with them. Desperate to find safety, Beth leads Tommy to the one place she knows will just crush him. The place had been a haven for Beth, a home where she needed to find herself. Since Tommy was there at the cabin to help Beth detox from the drugs in her body, it was her turn to help him from getting killed. But will Tommy recover from Beth’s betrayal?
My heart broke mostly for Tommy. He’d always looked out for all the other kids, and felt it was dangerous to wish for anything for himself. He knew whatever he wished for would always be taken away. But now with the realization of the one person he truly loved, he wished for Beth and happiness in his life.
I loved the whole process of these two reconnecting, trying to find a middle ground where the pain of remembrance would not be too hurtful. And trusting enough in each other to finally share a bit of their own childhood. There are plenty of revelations and surprises. I cheered when Beth finally found her inner strength to save Tommy, and it was a tidy resolution. The steamy scenes were intense and filled with chemistry, and my heart just poured out for these two. It’s so good, and I felt drained after reading it. But there is forgiveness and love. Where I Belong is well written and intensely emotional. I recommend this story, and Lost Without You should be read first. I’m looking forward to Simon’s story next.
I received and voluntarily reviewed an ARC of this book.
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