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Ugly Truths
He has no idea who she is, and she’s determined to keep it that way.
Ex-model and current business troubleshooter Kate McKenzie has been enlisted to help out a physical therapist whose business is failing. There’s just one problem. The business is located in her old hometown of Angel Peaks, and the man in question is her childhood arch-nemesis who she’d rather see die a painful and messy death.
Sam Garrett is a pillar of the local community in the small town of Angel Peaks. He volunteers, he supports, he goes out of his way to be seen as an all-round good guy. However, hiding behind this golden veneer is a past he just can’t seem to let go of. There’s only one person who can help him redeem himself, but she left the town thirteen years ago.
Will Kate find enough forgiveness in her heart to give Sam the closure he so desperately needs?
Content Warnings:
Bullying
Suggestions of self-harm
Child Abuse
Discussion of Eating Disorders
Ex-model and current business troubleshooter Kate McKenzie has been enlisted to help out a physical therapist whose business is failing. There’s just one problem. The business is located in her old hometown of Angel Peaks, and the man in question is her childhood arch-nemesis who she’d rather see die a painful and messy death.
Sam Garrett is a pillar of the local community in the small town of Angel Peaks. He volunteers, he supports, he goes out of his way to be seen as an all-round good guy. However, hiding behind this golden veneer is a past he just can’t seem to let go of. There’s only one person who can help him redeem himself, but she left the town thirteen years ago.
Will Kate find enough forgiveness in her heart to give Sam the closure he so desperately needs?
Content Warnings:
Bullying
Suggestions of self-harm
Child Abuse
Discussion of Eating Disorders
254 pages, Kindle Edition
Published February 28, 2022
51 people are currently reading
118 people want to read
About the author
Sophie Penhaligon
8 books58 followersSophie Penhaligon was born and raised in England but has lived in Canada for over 20 years. She enjoys reading and writing sweet and sexy romance novels with loveable characters and interesting locations.
You can find out more about Sophie's books by visiting her website: https://sophiepenhaligon.com where you can sign up to join her mailing list.
You can find out more about Sophie's books by visiting her website: https://sophiepenhaligon.com where you can sign up to join her mailing list.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 31 reviews
January 13, 2023
“𝘞𝘦’𝘭𝘭 𝘥𝘳𝘪𝘯𝘬 𝘣𝘦𝘦𝘳 𝘢𝘯𝘥 𝘦𝘷𝘦𝘳𝘺𝘵𝘩𝘪𝘯𝘨 𝘸𝘪𝘭𝘭 𝘣𝘦 𝘴𝘰𝘳𝘵𝘦𝘥 𝘰𝘶𝘵 𝘣𝘺 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘦𝘯𝘥 𝘰𝘧 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘦𝘷𝘦𝘯𝘪𝘯𝘨, 𝘢𝘯𝘥 𝘪𝘧 𝘪𝘵’𝘴 𝘯𝘰𝘵, 𝘸𝘦 𝘸𝘰𝘯’𝘵 𝘤𝘢𝘳𝘦 𝘣𝘦𝘤𝘢𝘶𝘴𝘦 𝘸𝘦’𝘭𝘭 𝘣𝘦 𝘵𝘰𝘵𝘢𝘭𝘭𝘺 𝘸𝘢𝘴𝘵𝘦𝘥.”
✮ ✮ ✮ ✮ ✮
I think romance books can be particularly hard to rate, because most romances are built on the same components so you know the author needs to think somewhat outside the box. Then as a reader it’s questions about whether it was original enough, whether they bought anything new to the romance game.
This one definitely did! I picked this series up (the next two still to read), after reading Sophie Penhaligon’s Safety in Numbers, and loving it! Sophie did not disappoint with this book. It all comes back to over 10 years ago when one 13 year old bullied another for 4 years beforehand, and made her, and her family, move and disappear in the middle of the night. All these years later, their worlds collide. She hates him, and he hates himself for how he treated her.
The question this book brings to the table, is can you forgive an adolescent for how they acted? Will they always be remembered for the trouble they caused? Or will them changing into a remorseful and caring adult change things? It really was deeply moving and Sophie Penhaligon did an amazing job of portraying all these feelings the characters would have had.
This book also covers a multitude of real world issues, but most particularly eating disorders and the issues professional modelling can cause to younger females. It was thought provoking and added a real depth to an otherwise lighthearted and fascinating romance! I highly recommend!
✮ ✮ ✮ ✮ ✮
I think romance books can be particularly hard to rate, because most romances are built on the same components so you know the author needs to think somewhat outside the box. Then as a reader it’s questions about whether it was original enough, whether they bought anything new to the romance game.
This one definitely did! I picked this series up (the next two still to read), after reading Sophie Penhaligon’s Safety in Numbers, and loving it! Sophie did not disappoint with this book. It all comes back to over 10 years ago when one 13 year old bullied another for 4 years beforehand, and made her, and her family, move and disappear in the middle of the night. All these years later, their worlds collide. She hates him, and he hates himself for how he treated her.
The question this book brings to the table, is can you forgive an adolescent for how they acted? Will they always be remembered for the trouble they caused? Or will them changing into a remorseful and caring adult change things? It really was deeply moving and Sophie Penhaligon did an amazing job of portraying all these feelings the characters would have had.
This book also covers a multitude of real world issues, but most particularly eating disorders and the issues professional modelling can cause to younger females. It was thought provoking and added a real depth to an otherwise lighthearted and fascinating romance! I highly recommend!
February 19, 2022
*3.5 Stars*
Kate McKenzie is a business troubleshooter. She helps struggling businesses get back on track. When a job offer sends her back to her hometown of Angel Peaks, she is given the uniquely ironic opportunity to shape the physiotherapy enterprise of her middle school nemesis, Sam Garrett. Sam bullied Kate mercilessly for four formative years of her youth, until finally, at a critical turning point, Kate’s mom uprooted their struggling family to save her daughter’s life. Now, the stunning ex-model turned entrepreneurial guru has something to prove when she comes face-to-face with her former tormentor. Sam is trying to prove himself to the town of Angel Peaks as well, but he can’t keep his eyes, head, or other parts away from the gorgeous woman who is now helping him sort out his business!
This is a sweet, enthusiastically written, small town, enemies to lovers romance. Ugly Truths is a sprint, rather than a marathon. Its impressive start off the mark is full of adrenaline and excitement. There is great anticipation of a showdown between Kate and Sam, especially since Sam initially does not recognize the woman who has struck him dumb with her beauty and business acumen. But, it loses momentum midway. For me, this was due to Kate’s easy acceptance of Sam’s remorse and extenuating circumstances. It turns the second half of the story into a prolonged denouement.
The issue of the childhood bullying is both the bait and the liability, as it sharpens the drama, but raises readers’ expectations. Having been bullied myself as a child, I can understand the way those experiences shape your worldview, as well as relate to having a lack of closure with the past. If you meet your ex-bully as an adult, is it hard or easy to forgive them? What would it take to achieve that forgiveness? Afterwards, how do you handle the anger and grief of losing your monster and your self-righteous indignation? I feel that this is a gem of an opportunity to really delve into some deep psychological perspectives on healing and closure. I didn’t want to see only the black and the white. I hoped for all the shading in between.
If you are here for the spiced up, cozy small town romance, this is superb. If you arrive with baggage, like I did, and hope that Kate will hold your hand through some group therapy, you may feel left in the dust. Not everyone will be prepared for Kate’s rapid about-face with her ex-abuser, regardless of the reasons that are given. Nevertheless, this writer is so engaging and so good at creating likeable characters, that I encourage you to give it read and decide for yourself.
(This is my independent review of an author-provided ARC.)
Kate McKenzie is a business troubleshooter. She helps struggling businesses get back on track. When a job offer sends her back to her hometown of Angel Peaks, she is given the uniquely ironic opportunity to shape the physiotherapy enterprise of her middle school nemesis, Sam Garrett. Sam bullied Kate mercilessly for four formative years of her youth, until finally, at a critical turning point, Kate’s mom uprooted their struggling family to save her daughter’s life. Now, the stunning ex-model turned entrepreneurial guru has something to prove when she comes face-to-face with her former tormentor. Sam is trying to prove himself to the town of Angel Peaks as well, but he can’t keep his eyes, head, or other parts away from the gorgeous woman who is now helping him sort out his business!
This is a sweet, enthusiastically written, small town, enemies to lovers romance. Ugly Truths is a sprint, rather than a marathon. Its impressive start off the mark is full of adrenaline and excitement. There is great anticipation of a showdown between Kate and Sam, especially since Sam initially does not recognize the woman who has struck him dumb with her beauty and business acumen. But, it loses momentum midway. For me, this was due to Kate’s easy acceptance of Sam’s remorse and extenuating circumstances. It turns the second half of the story into a prolonged denouement.
The issue of the childhood bullying is both the bait and the liability, as it sharpens the drama, but raises readers’ expectations. Having been bullied myself as a child, I can understand the way those experiences shape your worldview, as well as relate to having a lack of closure with the past. If you meet your ex-bully as an adult, is it hard or easy to forgive them? What would it take to achieve that forgiveness? Afterwards, how do you handle the anger and grief of losing your monster and your self-righteous indignation? I feel that this is a gem of an opportunity to really delve into some deep psychological perspectives on healing and closure. I didn’t want to see only the black and the white. I hoped for all the shading in between.
If you are here for the spiced up, cozy small town romance, this is superb. If you arrive with baggage, like I did, and hope that Kate will hold your hand through some group therapy, you may feel left in the dust. Not everyone will be prepared for Kate’s rapid about-face with her ex-abuser, regardless of the reasons that are given. Nevertheless, this writer is so engaging and so good at creating likeable characters, that I encourage you to give it read and decide for yourself.
(This is my independent review of an author-provided ARC.)
February 25, 2022
Ugly Truths
3/5 Stars
Thank you to BookSprout for the Arc in exchange for an honest review.
I went back and forth between really liking this book and it leaving a bad taste in my mouth which is why I rated it fairly neutrally.
Ugly Truths follows the story of bullied child-turned model-turned business fixer upper Kate McKenzie who is returning to her hometown to fix the business of the boy who spent most of their young lives bullying and tormenting her and, the boy, Sam Garrett, a physiotherapist who is trying to forget his past and be the pillar that his community needs.
When Kate shows up, Sam doesn’t recognize her as the ugly duckling he ruined the life of over ten years ago. But the truth comes to light when he falls for her but needs her forgiveness and understanding before anything can ever happen between them, leading down a story of overcoming the trauma their relationship was built on so long ago.
I really did like this story and its concept, but I think it could have been done better as an adult novel instead of a contemporary romance. It’s filled with heavy topics that are dealt with so lightly that it’s hard not to project onto it and think “I would never” when it comes to the decisions of the characters based on the history between them and how they go about recovering with each other.
A lot of it went by so fast and didn’t go in depth with how they’re truly dealing with things, but the dual POV did work well in this book despite the lack of emotional development. I was worried initially that everything would work out too fast and everything would be resolved without handling the original, very real issues that a real relationship would have never worked without.
Overall, it was a cute book, but would have done better in my opinion with either more emotional depth and vulnerability or a genre change – and maybe some trigger warnings as this book is laced with an anti-food dialogue that is looked over so easily unless the reader has experience in it.
3/5 Stars
Thank you to BookSprout for the Arc in exchange for an honest review.
I went back and forth between really liking this book and it leaving a bad taste in my mouth which is why I rated it fairly neutrally.
Ugly Truths follows the story of bullied child-turned model-turned business fixer upper Kate McKenzie who is returning to her hometown to fix the business of the boy who spent most of their young lives bullying and tormenting her and, the boy, Sam Garrett, a physiotherapist who is trying to forget his past and be the pillar that his community needs.
When Kate shows up, Sam doesn’t recognize her as the ugly duckling he ruined the life of over ten years ago. But the truth comes to light when he falls for her but needs her forgiveness and understanding before anything can ever happen between them, leading down a story of overcoming the trauma their relationship was built on so long ago.
I really did like this story and its concept, but I think it could have been done better as an adult novel instead of a contemporary romance. It’s filled with heavy topics that are dealt with so lightly that it’s hard not to project onto it and think “I would never” when it comes to the decisions of the characters based on the history between them and how they go about recovering with each other.
A lot of it went by so fast and didn’t go in depth with how they’re truly dealing with things, but the dual POV did work well in this book despite the lack of emotional development. I was worried initially that everything would work out too fast and everything would be resolved without handling the original, very real issues that a real relationship would have never worked without.
Overall, it was a cute book, but would have done better in my opinion with either more emotional depth and vulnerability or a genre change – and maybe some trigger warnings as this book is laced with an anti-food dialogue that is looked over so easily unless the reader has experience in it.
February 18, 2022
The cutest small town romance I have read this year. When I started the book I was afraid that the characters would forgive each other too fast and I think it did. But it was not as fast as I thought. In my opinion you don’t forgive your bully in under 5 minutes. But when i ignored that I really enjoyed the characters and the side characters. I really hope we get the friend story later on
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
February 28, 2022
I really wanted to like this book but I just couldn't get into it and could not finish it
I was given this book as an ARC for a honest review
I was given this book as an ARC for a honest review
February 11, 2022
An amazingly great enemies to lovers romance story, but the title covers the content of this book. There are a lot of ugly truths in this story and a couple of difficult scenes to read through. However, you can see both of the main characters work through their past issues and heal as they spend more time together and eventually get to a forgiveness stage before finding love. A great town was built in this story and it felt like a Hallmark movie as you were being lead through the town. I could totally picture the movie in my head as I was reading. I'm hoping that there are two (at least) sequels to this story because we have two other couples that were beautifully set up in this story that both need their stories told.
Content Warning: Death of a parent (cancer), attempted suicide (in past), eating disorders, domestic/child abuse (in past)
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Content Warning: Death of a parent (cancer), attempted suicide (in past), eating disorders, domestic/child abuse (in past)
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
February 27, 2022
I’m finishing off the month of love with another romance, and it was exactly what my mind and soul needed in these times we’re living in. This is the second book of Sophie Penhaligon’s I’ve read (and adored); she has a way of writing novels that I love and Ugly Truths was no different!
I’ve said before that I’m all about the characters, and both Sam and Kate were real people in fiction form. This is an enemies to lovers trope romance, and the main characters really had a lot of history to overcome before they could get to the steamy scenes. Although both Sam and Kate are only twenty-six years old, they both had to grow up quickly, which lead to their respective voices (did I mention this is dual point of view?) being more advanced than their young age should allow.
The story takes place in a small mountainous town and a small city close by; I could picture the mountains in the background of the down town areas where a lot of the scenes are set. The highway between the two locations being closed even furthered my visions of the snowy setting.
I can’t wait to read more from Penhaligon (a sequel is coming), and read her backlist as well. Characters make a book for me, and I know I will not be disappointed from this author!
Thank you Sophie Penhaligon for the complimentary eARC to read and review. Publication date is set for February 28, 2022.
I’ve said before that I’m all about the characters, and both Sam and Kate were real people in fiction form. This is an enemies to lovers trope romance, and the main characters really had a lot of history to overcome before they could get to the steamy scenes. Although both Sam and Kate are only twenty-six years old, they both had to grow up quickly, which lead to their respective voices (did I mention this is dual point of view?) being more advanced than their young age should allow.
The story takes place in a small mountainous town and a small city close by; I could picture the mountains in the background of the down town areas where a lot of the scenes are set. The highway between the two locations being closed even furthered my visions of the snowy setting.
I can’t wait to read more from Penhaligon (a sequel is coming), and read her backlist as well. Characters make a book for me, and I know I will not be disappointed from this author!
Thank you Sophie Penhaligon for the complimentary eARC to read and review. Publication date is set for February 28, 2022.
April 24, 2022
Sweet small town romance
I needed a little light hearted reading and this hit the spot.
Kate was tormented in school by her bully Sam, she was so tormented she up and left Angel Peaks and never looked back. That is until her new business demands it.
Sam has lived a rough life and has spent alot of time working to fix the sins of his past by bringing his new business to his hometown.
Sam never expected his biggest regret to be this gorgeous woman who is here to bail him out.
Kate and Sam are both shaken by these events and are struggling to process their anger, shame and regrets but then throw in the growing attraction. Wheeeew
These two have so much chemistry and are so open with their feelings its refreshing.
You see each of them break down and build eachother back up.
I love these two and I can't wait to read more and see where things go and see what is in store for our witty and fun side characters.
I needed a little light hearted reading and this hit the spot.
Kate was tormented in school by her bully Sam, she was so tormented she up and left Angel Peaks and never looked back. That is until her new business demands it.
Sam has lived a rough life and has spent alot of time working to fix the sins of his past by bringing his new business to his hometown.
Sam never expected his biggest regret to be this gorgeous woman who is here to bail him out.
Kate and Sam are both shaken by these events and are struggling to process their anger, shame and regrets but then throw in the growing attraction. Wheeeew
These two have so much chemistry and are so open with their feelings its refreshing.
You see each of them break down and build eachother back up.
I love these two and I can't wait to read more and see where things go and see what is in store for our witty and fun side characters.
March 8, 2022
A great start to a new series. Amazing storyline and believable.
Kate gets a new assignment to help a struggling business back in her hometown. Reluctant to go but hoping Sam won’t recognize her. Kate used to go by Kathryn, before the modeling career and nose job. She was bullied by Sam to the point their whole family moved to keep her from hurting herself. Sam doesn’t recognize her at all. But he’s very taken with her. Will she come clean as to who she really is? Can she forgive Sam for what he did all those years ago? Can she look past his model citizen, helping bullied kids or does she still see the monster he once was?
Such a great book. Quick read that will leave you wanting more. This is a small town enemies to lovers, first of a series. Can’t wait for the next book.
I received this arc and am voluntarily leaving my honest opinion.
Kate gets a new assignment to help a struggling business back in her hometown. Reluctant to go but hoping Sam won’t recognize her. Kate used to go by Kathryn, before the modeling career and nose job. She was bullied by Sam to the point their whole family moved to keep her from hurting herself. Sam doesn’t recognize her at all. But he’s very taken with her. Will she come clean as to who she really is? Can she forgive Sam for what he did all those years ago? Can she look past his model citizen, helping bullied kids or does she still see the monster he once was?
Such a great book. Quick read that will leave you wanting more. This is a small town enemies to lovers, first of a series. Can’t wait for the next book.
I received this arc and am voluntarily leaving my honest opinion.
February 24, 2022
The story of Kate and Sam.
She is back in town to help him save his business - he doesn't recognise her or realise that she is the girl he bullied all those years ago. Both have changed since then, but can she forgive him, and can they both move on from their pasts?
Can't wait for the rest of the books in this series!
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
She is back in town to help him save his business - he doesn't recognise her or realise that she is the girl he bullied all those years ago. Both have changed since then, but can she forgive him, and can they both move on from their pasts?
Can't wait for the rest of the books in this series!
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
March 10, 2022
painful healing
—-Always strong female protagonists define Penhaligon’s novels. And Kate, once a teen victim of bullying and a former model battling bulimia, emerges as more than a survivor. She becomes a champion.
Although I prefer several of other books because of locations, histories, specialties, or conflicts, Kate’s experiences resonate showing power in listening and forgiving.
—-Always strong female protagonists define Penhaligon’s novels. And Kate, once a teen victim of bullying and a former model battling bulimia, emerges as more than a survivor. She becomes a champion.
Although I prefer several of other books because of locations, histories, specialties, or conflicts, Kate’s experiences resonate showing power in listening and forgiving.
February 22, 2022
This was a great book! It was an original storyline. In it’s barest essence, it is a bully to lovers trope. Sam tormented Kate in middle school. Sam had his own issues as well but took everything out on Kate. While Kate gave the impression of strength, she resorted to unhealthy, poor coping mechanisms.
I don’t want to give too much away, but this book was great. This author is new to me but I will be looking for other books by her! Take a chance and read this book - you will not be disappointed!!
I don’t want to give too much away, but this book was great. This author is new to me but I will be looking for other books by her! Take a chance and read this book - you will not be disappointed!!
February 28, 2022
This is a fab emotional small town romance. First we have Kate who was bullied terribly so much so that her mum packed up and moved town to save her. Then we have Sam the golden boy who is said bully! Now imagine you are a successful business woman and said bully needs your help to rescue his business, do you help him? It’s a fab, fun, well written and well paced story that has sparks and tears flying in the enemies to lovers romance.
February 28, 2022
✔️Small Town
✔️Enemies to Lovers
✔️Spicy Characters
Picture this, you are a successful businesswoman working your way to the top only to find out your next client…..is your worst enemy. He made your life a living hell in middle school, so much that your mom packed your family up and left town.
It’s been so many years that he doesn’t remember you. Can you keep it together long enough to seal the deal and get the heck out of dodge incognito?
I loved the scene that the author set for this series. You’ve got this cozy, little town full of fun characters and sparks are flying everywhere. I can’t wait to see what happens in book 2!
February 28, 2022
This book is a good read . The characters are likeable and their chemistry is great . The storyline is good with a happy ending .
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
April 11, 2022
Lovely!!
What a beautiful story of friendship, love and forgiveness. Love all the main characters and can't wait to read their books!
What a beautiful story of friendship, love and forgiveness. Love all the main characters and can't wait to read their books!
February 12, 2022
I loved this book. Absolutely devoured it in a couple of days.
Two likeable characters for very different reasons. A strong, independent woman and a charming, successful, reformed man. Both with baggage and bad history between them. As the title suggests , some very ugly truths. They need to work through these to find contentment and happiness. Difficult situations and feelings faced by the characters and further truths revealed.
The setting for the book was good. Definitely looking forward to more in the series.
Highly recommended.
Two likeable characters for very different reasons. A strong, independent woman and a charming, successful, reformed man. Both with baggage and bad history between them. As the title suggests , some very ugly truths. They need to work through these to find contentment and happiness. Difficult situations and feelings faced by the characters and further truths revealed.
The setting for the book was good. Definitely looking forward to more in the series.
Highly recommended.
March 1, 2022
Sam and Katie.. Teenage mean person redeemed and gets the one whom he bullied..
I liked Katie - strong yet vulnerable (just a little bit) due to the incidents in the past.
Sam was good too but I would have liked for him to have put in more efforts to win her trust 😉
I liked Ms. Sophie Penhaligon's Safety in Numbers and the writing is different from what I am generally used to.. Ugly Truths is also a different read and I found myself liking it more as I continued reading..
The incidents happen within few weeks while the book felt to move at a slower pace (or maybe I was reading a bit slower than usual). And I would have loved to see a bit more of the small town qualities.
Maybe we will get to know more in the forthcoming books.. Looking forward to the next ones!
Overall, an enjoyable read.
I liked Katie - strong yet vulnerable (just a little bit) due to the incidents in the past.
Sam was good too but I would have liked for him to have put in more efforts to win her trust 😉
I liked Ms. Sophie Penhaligon's Safety in Numbers and the writing is different from what I am generally used to.. Ugly Truths is also a different read and I found myself liking it more as I continued reading..
The incidents happen within few weeks while the book felt to move at a slower pace (or maybe I was reading a bit slower than usual). And I would have loved to see a bit more of the small town qualities.
Maybe we will get to know more in the forthcoming books.. Looking forward to the next ones!
Overall, an enjoyable read.
February 26, 2022
Ugly Truths was a difficult book to rate because I always love a good redemption but in this case it felt a little too easy considering the level of trauma, guilt and resentment involved here. Kate McKenzie is returning to her own hometown in order to fix Sam Garrett's struggling physiotherapy business. Far from a straightforward business transaction, this journey is fraught with tension because Sam used to be her worst nightmare when she was thirteen and still called Kathryn Trollop, bullying her until she lost her will to live. She and her mother left the town and Sam behind when Kathryn started thinking of harming herself. She changed her name when her mother remarried, got a nosejob, and reinvented herself to become a supermodel. The supermodel life was not all that it was cracked up to be and Kate has left it behind as well, but still struggling with the self-esteem issues and the distrust of men.
Now she's back in town, sure that she looks different enough that Sam wouldn't recognize her, and he doesn't. She plans to deal with him in a business-like manner but he appears smitten by her looks from the first time he sees her. She didn't expect him to turn out this hot either. A snow-blocked road and a bottle of wine leads to an angry, teary confrontation and she reveals who she is. Sam is strangely able to comfort her although this is disturbing to him too. It turns out that Sam had a traumatic childhood and was acting out his anger. He got counseling after Kathryn left town and is now trying to atone by helping bullied children and being an all-around good guy. He's dreamed of a chance to meet Kathryn again and to apologize. After seeing her, he thinks his redemption would consist of getting Kate to stay in her old hometown and to be with him. He suggests that they could go see a counselor together and I thought it would be a good idea but this never happens, they just work it out by having a couple of good cries and great cuddles and all's forgiven.
It is competently written and edited, the story kept my interest throughout and I liked the characters but I could not completely buy into the forgiveness being so easy after she's spent thirteen years wanting to nail his unnamed body parts into the ground. And they make such a big deal about how beautiful Kate is and how she finds him sexy against her will that I was wondering whether they had reconciled if one or both of them had grown up to be less physically attractive.
After reading this book, I looked up the worst bully I remember from our school days and I am very happy to report that I did not have the hots for him.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Now she's back in town, sure that she looks different enough that Sam wouldn't recognize her, and he doesn't. She plans to deal with him in a business-like manner but he appears smitten by her looks from the first time he sees her. She didn't expect him to turn out this hot either. A snow-blocked road and a bottle of wine leads to an angry, teary confrontation and she reveals who she is. Sam is strangely able to comfort her although this is disturbing to him too. It turns out that Sam had a traumatic childhood and was acting out his anger. He got counseling after Kathryn left town and is now trying to atone by helping bullied children and being an all-around good guy. He's dreamed of a chance to meet Kathryn again and to apologize. After seeing her, he thinks his redemption would consist of getting Kate to stay in her old hometown and to be with him. He suggests that they could go see a counselor together and I thought it would be a good idea but this never happens, they just work it out by having a couple of good cries and great cuddles and all's forgiven.
It is competently written and edited, the story kept my interest throughout and I liked the characters but I could not completely buy into the forgiveness being so easy after she's spent thirteen years wanting to nail his unnamed body parts into the ground. And they make such a big deal about how beautiful Kate is and how she finds him sexy against her will that I was wondering whether they had reconciled if one or both of them had grown up to be less physically attractive.
After reading this book, I looked up the worst bully I remember from our school days and I am very happy to report that I did not have the hots for him.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
March 1, 2022
Forgiving a Tyrant . . .
Her self-esteem destroyed years ago by this man she is supposed to assist with his failing business, will Kate McKenzie be able to find forgiveness for the man and any kind of closure for herself? She was traumatized so badly by him, driven to suicidal thoughts, that her family moved and she changed her appearance to re-invent herself. Coming back to her old hometown in Angel Peaks will not be easy for her.
Sam Garrett tries to put forth a perfect image now, volunteering and supporting his community. Yet he cannot shake his past as a merciless bully. The only one who could help him do that is long gone. Now it’s up to her to decide whether she will save his business, or whether she even wants to try.
I am not sure that finding someone more attractive than you expected is a good enough reason to forgive and forget what was done in the past. Forgiveness is absolutely necessary. But it should take a great deal of introspection and counseling to look at what happened and how to repair all the damage. It’s definitely not a quick process either. So it wasn’t necessarily convincing to me.
Her self-esteem destroyed years ago by this man she is supposed to assist with his failing business, will Kate McKenzie be able to find forgiveness for the man and any kind of closure for herself? She was traumatized so badly by him, driven to suicidal thoughts, that her family moved and she changed her appearance to re-invent herself. Coming back to her old hometown in Angel Peaks will not be easy for her.
Sam Garrett tries to put forth a perfect image now, volunteering and supporting his community. Yet he cannot shake his past as a merciless bully. The only one who could help him do that is long gone. Now it’s up to her to decide whether she will save his business, or whether she even wants to try.
I am not sure that finding someone more attractive than you expected is a good enough reason to forgive and forget what was done in the past. Forgiveness is absolutely necessary. But it should take a great deal of introspection and counseling to look at what happened and how to repair all the damage. It’s definitely not a quick process either. So it wasn’t necessarily convincing to me.
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March 2, 2022Heartfelt smalltown romance 4*
What happens when the guy who mercilessly bullied you for years in school is the one that needs you with his ailing business? That is exactly what happens to Kate, a gorgeous ex-model turned business consultant. Sam not only doesn’t recognise her at first but becomes totally besotted with her. The deep scars and negative emotions that bullying causes has been sensitively handled by the author but reconciling with the past and Sam’s behaviour hadn’t really been adequately addressed to achieve closure for Kate. She forgives him too easily and that makes the book for me, although romantic but wanting in the depth that such important issues deserve. It is an enjoyable, interesting read nevertheless.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
What happens when the guy who mercilessly bullied you for years in school is the one that needs you with his ailing business? That is exactly what happens to Kate, a gorgeous ex-model turned business consultant. Sam not only doesn’t recognise her at first but becomes totally besotted with her. The deep scars and negative emotions that bullying causes has been sensitively handled by the author but reconciling with the past and Sam’s behaviour hadn’t really been adequately addressed to achieve closure for Kate. She forgives him too easily and that makes the book for me, although romantic but wanting in the depth that such important issues deserve. It is an enjoyable, interesting read nevertheless.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
May 18, 2022
A heart warming romance. Kate and Sam start off with a rocky relationship due to their tumultuous past. However, once they talk about their shared and individual histories, they truly become a beautiful pair.
So often with romances you find miscommunication or not being completely truthful with the other person, that is becomes really frustrating. This was not the case in this story. I love how they are so honest with each other. And though their story started off as childish, literally, Sam and Kate really matured.
Though it has those fluffy moments, ‘Ugly Truths’ actually addresses a lot of serious topics such as bullying, child abuse, and eating disorders. It is so important to talk about this issues in a mature and informing manner, and what better way to do it than addressing it in literature?!
I can’t wait to read the next book about Maddie and Reece.
So often with romances you find miscommunication or not being completely truthful with the other person, that is becomes really frustrating. This was not the case in this story. I love how they are so honest with each other. And though their story started off as childish, literally, Sam and Kate really matured.
Though it has those fluffy moments, ‘Ugly Truths’ actually addresses a lot of serious topics such as bullying, child abuse, and eating disorders. It is so important to talk about this issues in a mature and informing manner, and what better way to do it than addressing it in literature?!
I can’t wait to read the next book about Maddie and Reece.
February 28, 2022
Ugly Truths is a small town enemy to lovers romance. I had mixed feelings about this subject before I read the book, but the way the author handled the subject of bullying made it a very good read! Although I don’t think I would be able to forgive someone who bullied me in this story I could understand Kate.
It’s a well written book but it’s just not a subject I like, that’s personal and doesn’t mean it’s a bad book.
I did like the small town atmosphere and the secondary characters.
I received this arc from the author and this review is my honest opinion.
It’s a well written book but it’s just not a subject I like, that’s personal and doesn’t mean it’s a bad book.
I did like the small town atmosphere and the secondary characters.
I received this arc from the author and this review is my honest opinion.
September 13, 2022
Good read
Nice story with good characters, I was glad it didn't drag out and was worried I would hate the male lead who had bullied Kate but in the book you find out why he was a bully and I'm sure it's more close to why some people do bully others, easy to get into and read it over 2 days which for me means it's got my attention and was not boring would recommend this book
Nice story with good characters, I was glad it didn't drag out and was worried I would hate the male lead who had bullied Kate but in the book you find out why he was a bully and I'm sure it's more close to why some people do bully others, easy to get into and read it over 2 days which for me means it's got my attention and was not boring would recommend this book
March 2, 2022
I struggle sometimes with rating this author's books. I've read 3 so far I think and I like the stories, the characters, etc. but the writing style is almost too...matter of fact? straight-forward? I'm not sure how to describe it, and I think the style detracts from the whole for me.
did-not-finish
September 6, 2022“You’re such a baby! TTYL. There followed a series of crude emojis for no other reason than this was Maddie, and it was what she did”
Oh haha let’s make of my friend who shared her apprehension about driving on an icy road 😜🤪😝 haha I’m just soo quirky lol
Seems like a great best friend
Oh haha let’s make of my friend who shared her apprehension about driving on an icy road 😜🤪😝 haha I’m just soo quirky lol
Seems like a great best friend
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
June 21, 2023
It was just kinda bland. There was a lot of description (often times repetitive statements). And not much emotion. Some of the "action" was somewhat lame and it seemed to be some romantic tropes were just thrown on without rhyme or reason. It was disjointed and messy. 🤷♀️
March 29, 2022
Started off well- but struggled to finish the last half.
September 12, 2022
Love the story
I love the story. Had a beautiful storyline.... I wouldn't mind reading the next book in the series. I hope Ryan finds his love.And I hope Maddy & Resse also find love.......
But it had some Words Typed wrong. Needed just a little more editing.
I love the story. Had a beautiful storyline.... I wouldn't mind reading the next book in the series. I hope Ryan finds his love.And I hope Maddy & Resse also find love.......
But it had some Words Typed wrong. Needed just a little more editing.
April 29, 2022
What a great read, I’m really liking authors dealing with issues happening in society today
We are seeing understanding for the treasons certain things happen
It doesn’t excuse the behaviour but it can help some people on the receiving end to help deal and get through it
There is pain on both sides for our characters for the issue in this story
I’m really looking forward to reading the next book in this series xx
We are seeing understanding for the treasons certain things happen
It doesn’t excuse the behaviour but it can help some people on the receiving end to help deal and get through it
There is pain on both sides for our characters for the issue in this story
I’m really looking forward to reading the next book in this series xx
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