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What's Left of Me
A contemporary romance about courage, loss, and moving on...
Callie Kingston’s life as an Orange County housewife isn’t as perfect as it seems. Her husband isn’t the same man she fell in love with nine years ago, and her home is no longer her safe haven. But she’s determined to keep up appearances, especially when it comes to concealing the bruises her husband’s temper leaves behind.
Until Cole Luciano moves into her best friend’s house across the street. He’s abrasive and rude, but his steel-blue eyes tell a different story—one with dark secrets that has Callie curious.
After suffering through an unspeakable tragedy, Cole settles into his sister’s pool house until he can get back on his feet. He’s convinced that he deserves to live with the guilt he harbors from his past, and wants nothing more than to be left alone. Yet he can’t seem to stay away from his beautiful neighbor. He sees right through Callie’s carefully orchestrated lies and is desperate to help her.
Callie discovers more than an angry and bitter man underneath Cole’s hard exterior. But when Callie finally finds the courage to create a new life for herself, Cole isn’t sure if there’s enough of his heart left to give in order to be the man she deserves.
Can two broken souls heal each other, or are some just too damaged to be put back together?
*This book contains some graphic scenes and very sensitive subject matter.
Callie Kingston’s life as an Orange County housewife isn’t as perfect as it seems. Her husband isn’t the same man she fell in love with nine years ago, and her home is no longer her safe haven. But she’s determined to keep up appearances, especially when it comes to concealing the bruises her husband’s temper leaves behind.
Until Cole Luciano moves into her best friend’s house across the street. He’s abrasive and rude, but his steel-blue eyes tell a different story—one with dark secrets that has Callie curious.
After suffering through an unspeakable tragedy, Cole settles into his sister’s pool house until he can get back on his feet. He’s convinced that he deserves to live with the guilt he harbors from his past, and wants nothing more than to be left alone. Yet he can’t seem to stay away from his beautiful neighbor. He sees right through Callie’s carefully orchestrated lies and is desperate to help her.
Callie discovers more than an angry and bitter man underneath Cole’s hard exterior. But when Callie finally finds the courage to create a new life for herself, Cole isn’t sure if there’s enough of his heart left to give in order to be the man she deserves.
Can two broken souls heal each other, or are some just too damaged to be put back together?
*This book contains some graphic scenes and very sensitive subject matter.
298 pages, Paperback
First published July 16, 2020
1162 people are currently reading
9331 people want to read
About the author
Kristen Granata
19 books2,979 followersKristen Granata is a bestselling romance author known for writing inspirational, emotional stories with realistic characters who struggle through the darkest parts of life and come out stronger on the other side.
Amazon: https://amzn.to/2zblG7G
Instagram: https://bit.ly/34LUfge
TikTok: https://bit.ly/3xOqPMm
Facebook: https://bit.ly/3cuvtEg
Kristen openly shares her mental health struggles with depression and anxiety. Her message is a beacon of hope to anyone who is suffering: You are not alone. She delicately weaves this theme into her writing, and demonstrates the ability of love to heal after tragedy.
When she's not teaching or writing, Kristen is reading, tripping over something, indulging in her messy love affair with popcorn, and annoying her wife and step-daughters by incessantly singing along to The Greatest Showman soundtrack.
Kristen was born in Brooklyn, New York. She currently lives in New Jersey with her wife & her two step-daughters.
Amazon: https://amzn.to/2zblG7G
Instagram: https://bit.ly/34LUfge
TikTok: https://bit.ly/3xOqPMm
Facebook: https://bit.ly/3cuvtEg
Kristen openly shares her mental health struggles with depression and anxiety. Her message is a beacon of hope to anyone who is suffering: You are not alone. She delicately weaves this theme into her writing, and demonstrates the ability of love to heal after tragedy.
When she's not teaching or writing, Kristen is reading, tripping over something, indulging in her messy love affair with popcorn, and annoying her wife and step-daughters by incessantly singing along to The Greatest Showman soundtrack.
Kristen was born in Brooklyn, New York. She currently lives in New Jersey with her wife & her two step-daughters.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 712 reviews
February 23, 2021
In the first 200 pages, the heroine is still married and her husband is abusive to her – he has been like this for a while. After page 200, she decides to get divorced and let me remind you that the book is 300 pages.
*********************************************
There are two sex scenes with the heroine and her abusive husband, but she doesn't enjoy it at all. Still, she wants to save her marriage and goes along with it. They have been trying to get pregnant and when things didn’t work out the way they expected, he felt guilty for not being able to give her a child and has become more and more aggressive recently.
Like all the bastards who do that, he says sorry afterwards and swears he won’t do it again. Then there is another sex scene between the heroine and her abusive husband, a more loving one this time which she enjoys and makes her think that they are finally getting better. Sadly, soon after that, he finds her journal and reads it. What he reads makes him furious and he hits her and chokes her.
All along the book, I wondered when she would decide enough was enough. I hoped that this one would be the last straw.
*********************************************
The hero, Cole, is divorced and still feels tortured for . We have flashbacks to the hero's past and see how much in love he was with his ex. We read about the hero's happy times with his ex and their love scenes until the time she .
*********************************************
So the book basically goes back to show us Cole’s happy times with his ex and shows present time to tell us about Callie’s unhappy present.
*********************************************
The lives of Cole and Callie collide when Cole comes to live with his sister, who is Callie’s best friend. Callie doesn’t share her problems with her best friend. She suspects about her husband hitting her but Callie never confesses.
Her brother Cole, who is the hero, discovers Callie in bruises one day and understands what’s happening. He is the one who shares it with his sister and then they help her to get rid of that asshole.
*********************************************
The problem with this book is, for so many pages, you read the hero and the heroine with other people.
I was going to DNF the book on page 80 but then went on reading to see when their romance would start. Then again I wanted to DNF it on page 130 but I read some more, again just to see when the romance between the hero and heroine would start. I also wondered if she would get rid of her husband easily or not.
While I was struggling with the book, my friend Sanzida, who read more than me at that time told me that I should not expect romance between them until after 70%. I thought that was too far away for me and once again wanted to drop the book but this following dialogue made me go on because it really made quite an effect on me.
He scoffs, shaking his head. “How can you say you love me but not know if you want to be with me?”
I rise from the couch and look down at him. “The same way you can tell me you love me and hit me.”
I always give a chance to a book which tells the story of a woman who saves herself from an abusive relationship and although I really wish this one had been written in another way with more focus on the new romance, I decided to finish reading the book.
However, the book is also full of story fillers such as family time, therapy time etc, which also bored me a lot and I had to skim and scan lots of pages to get the gist of it sometimes.
*********************************************
As I said, the new romance starts in the last third of the book as the two thirds of the book deals with other things. And when the new romance begins, it is still frustrating because Cole constantly pushes her away, saying he is not good enough for her. He never explains why. Only a tragic event and a conversation with his ex help him to come to his senses. That was not the way I would have preferred he would decide to pursue a long-time relationship with our heroine but alas, it was this way.
*********************************************
The book felt like 2,25 points to me, maybe a little closer to 2,5 stars but never 3. I have deducted points for all the reasons I have talked about above.
*********************************************
Writing:
Dual point of view / 300 pages / Out of focus / too many story fillers
Safety:
Not safe because there is too much stuff about the exes. The heroine has sex with her husband a few times after meeting the hero. We also read about the hero's love scenes with his ex during the flashbacks.
Condoms used / safe sex
* You can follow my instagram page from here
*********************************************
There are two sex scenes with the heroine and her abusive husband, but she doesn't enjoy it at all. Still, she wants to save her marriage and goes along with it. They have been trying to get pregnant and when things didn’t work out the way they expected, he felt guilty for not being able to give her a child and has become more and more aggressive recently.
Like all the bastards who do that, he says sorry afterwards and swears he won’t do it again. Then there is another sex scene between the heroine and her abusive husband, a more loving one this time which she enjoys and makes her think that they are finally getting better. Sadly, soon after that, he finds her journal and reads it. What he reads makes him furious and he hits her and chokes her.
All along the book, I wondered when she would decide enough was enough. I hoped that this one would be the last straw.
*********************************************
The hero, Cole, is divorced and still feels tortured for . We have flashbacks to the hero's past and see how much in love he was with his ex. We read about the hero's happy times with his ex and their love scenes until the time she .
*********************************************
So the book basically goes back to show us Cole’s happy times with his ex and shows present time to tell us about Callie’s unhappy present.
*********************************************
The lives of Cole and Callie collide when Cole comes to live with his sister, who is Callie’s best friend. Callie doesn’t share her problems with her best friend. She suspects about her husband hitting her but Callie never confesses.
Her brother Cole, who is the hero, discovers Callie in bruises one day and understands what’s happening. He is the one who shares it with his sister and then they help her to get rid of that asshole.
*********************************************
The problem with this book is, for so many pages, you read the hero and the heroine with other people.
I was going to DNF the book on page 80 but then went on reading to see when their romance would start. Then again I wanted to DNF it on page 130 but I read some more, again just to see when the romance between the hero and heroine would start. I also wondered if she would get rid of her husband easily or not.
While I was struggling with the book, my friend Sanzida, who read more than me at that time told me that I should not expect romance between them until after 70%. I thought that was too far away for me and once again wanted to drop the book but this following dialogue made me go on because it really made quite an effect on me.
He scoffs, shaking his head. “How can you say you love me but not know if you want to be with me?”
I rise from the couch and look down at him. “The same way you can tell me you love me and hit me.”
I always give a chance to a book which tells the story of a woman who saves herself from an abusive relationship and although I really wish this one had been written in another way with more focus on the new romance, I decided to finish reading the book.
However, the book is also full of story fillers such as family time, therapy time etc, which also bored me a lot and I had to skim and scan lots of pages to get the gist of it sometimes.
*********************************************
As I said, the new romance starts in the last third of the book as the two thirds of the book deals with other things. And when the new romance begins, it is still frustrating because Cole constantly pushes her away, saying he is not good enough for her. He never explains why. Only a tragic event and a conversation with his ex help him to come to his senses. That was not the way I would have preferred he would decide to pursue a long-time relationship with our heroine but alas, it was this way.
*********************************************
The book felt like 2,25 points to me, maybe a little closer to 2,5 stars but never 3. I have deducted points for all the reasons I have talked about above.
*********************************************
Writing:
Dual point of view / 300 pages / Out of focus / too many story fillers
Safety:
Not safe because there is too much stuff about the exes. The heroine has sex with her husband a few times after meeting the hero. We also read about the hero's love scenes with his ex during the flashbacks.
Condoms used / safe sex
* You can follow my instagram page from here
October 29, 2020
3.5 STARS
Callie thought she had the perfect life – but what used to be love, turned into darkness when her husband became a scary stranger. Callie blames herself and is convinced that she could get him to be the man she fell in love with again, and the abuse would stop… but this plan explodes when Cole moves across the street. 💥💥💥
📚 “𝐖𝐡𝐞𝐧 𝐬𝐨𝐦𝐞𝐨𝐧𝐞 𝐩𝐮𝐬𝐡𝐞𝐬 𝐲𝐨𝐮 𝐚𝐰𝐚𝐲, 𝐲𝐨𝐮 𝐧𝐞𝐞𝐝 𝐭𝐨 𝐟𝐢𝐧𝐝 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐬𝐭𝐫𝐞𝐧𝐠𝐭𝐡 𝐭𝐨 𝐡𝐨𝐥𝐝 𝐨𝐧 𝐭𝐢𝐠𝐡𝐭𝐞𝐫.” 📚
Cole runs away from his past but clings to his guilt. He moves into his older sister's pool house – who is also Callie's best friend. Cole is determined to keep blaming himself and to never fall in love or get involved again, but after meeting Callie, he knows he can not ignore his suspicions about what is happening at the neighbors' house… and becomes her safe haven. 💛
They are two broken souls who got together because of pain and sadness – but will their demons endanger their love? 😱
📚 𝐓𝐡𝐞 𝐫𝐢𝐠𝐡𝐭 𝐩𝐞𝐫𝐬𝐨𝐧 𝐰𝐨𝐧’𝐭 𝐚𝐬𝐤 𝐲𝐨𝐮 𝐭𝐨 𝐬𝐚𝐜𝐫𝐢𝐟𝐢𝐜𝐞 𝐰𝐡𝐨 𝐲𝐨𝐮 𝐚𝐫𝐞 𝐟𝐨𝐫 𝐡𝐢𝐬 𝐥𝐨𝐯𝐞. 𝐋𝐨𝐬𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐲𝐨𝐮𝐫𝐬𝐞𝐥𝐟 𝐢𝐧 𝐚 𝐫𝐞𝐥𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧𝐬𝐡𝐢𝐩 𝐢𝐬 𝐧𝐞𝐯𝐞𝐫 𝐚𝐧 𝐨𝐩𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧. 📚
Although the writing was good, I felt like there were too many dramas, events and tragedies in this story – which made the plot a little messy and left me with lots of questions about unresolved parts. 🙈
Plus, after what they both went through I expected them to take more time for themselves and not jump right into a new relationship (especially her!) – but it all happened too fast for my liking (less than 3 months). 😬
Still, this book is a journey of self-discovery, forgiveness and love – and the plot addresses super sensitive issues – domestic violence, infertility, death of parents, divorce, loss of a child… and everything was handled by the author in a sensitive, respectful and interesting way. 💛
Overall I enjoyed the story and Kristen's writing was great. 😍😍😍
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July 13, 2020
It's very rare that an author surprises me. Kristen Granata didn't just surprise me, she completely blew me away. If you love emotional, poignant, and healing romance, you simply cannot miss What's Left of Me. A five-star must read and a lovely introduction for me to a new author I know I'll love for years to come.
July 13, 2020
This book is a romance that delves into so much more than two people falling in love—it’s a story about two people who have to learn how to better love themselves, heal from their pasts, and open their hearts to new beginnings.
From a writing perspective, what Kristen is able to accomplish in roughly 300 pages is nothing short of incredible. To cover such a grand arc of the end of one relationship blossoming into the beginning of a new and better one, is a daunting challenge but Kristen rose to it. Callie and Cole are fallible and imperfect, but their desire to be healthier, to grow and evolve makes this a love story not born out of fairytales and carefree living, but the real work of survival, the tenacity it takes to leave your life and start over, and the joy of finding true, safe, loving partnership.
Perfect for readers of Colleen Hoover, Kandi Steiner, and Emma Scott, WHAT’S LEFT OF ME will take your heart through the wringer of so many emotions, real-life struggles, deep friendship, and healing love. Grab your tissues, buddy read this with your friend who’s ready to ride the feelings rollercoaster with you, and seriously prepare to fall in love.
From a writing perspective, what Kristen is able to accomplish in roughly 300 pages is nothing short of incredible. To cover such a grand arc of the end of one relationship blossoming into the beginning of a new and better one, is a daunting challenge but Kristen rose to it. Callie and Cole are fallible and imperfect, but their desire to be healthier, to grow and evolve makes this a love story not born out of fairytales and carefree living, but the real work of survival, the tenacity it takes to leave your life and start over, and the joy of finding true, safe, loving partnership.
Perfect for readers of Colleen Hoover, Kandi Steiner, and Emma Scott, WHAT’S LEFT OF ME will take your heart through the wringer of so many emotions, real-life struggles, deep friendship, and healing love. Grab your tissues, buddy read this with your friend who’s ready to ride the feelings rollercoaster with you, and seriously prepare to fall in love.
August 6, 2020
4 ⭐'s
This is my first book by Kristen Granata and it's filled with some hard hitting drama - Those are not necessarily my cuppa tea but I am all about the angst so in I went.
Cole and Callie meet when he shows up at his sister's house who lives across the street from Callie. Things don't start off well when she thinks he's the new landscaper because he's dirty and has an old truck.
But...there's something there, however, Callie is married and Cole doesn't want anything to do with a relationship. So, the best they can do is be there for each other...and be there they are.
Thank goodness, Cole was there at all the right times because that was just what Callie needed. I was happy she was able to get herself into a better spot and I loved all the things she did in order to get there.
Cole was another story. His pain ran deep and it took A LOT for him to start seeing straight. I did hate that he left when he did.
One issue I had was that everything worked out too well although it did make for a really sweet ending. I will definitely be reading another Kristen Granata story.
This is my first book by Kristen Granata and it's filled with some hard hitting drama - Those are not necessarily my cuppa tea but I am all about the angst so in I went.
Cole and Callie meet when he shows up at his sister's house who lives across the street from Callie. Things don't start off well when she thinks he's the new landscaper because he's dirty and has an old truck.
But...there's something there, however, Callie is married and Cole doesn't want anything to do with a relationship. So, the best they can do is be there for each other...and be there they are.
Thank goodness, Cole was there at all the right times because that was just what Callie needed. I was happy she was able to get herself into a better spot and I loved all the things she did in order to get there.
Cole was another story. His pain ran deep and it took A LOT for him to start seeing straight. I did hate that he left when he did.
One issue I had was that everything worked out too well although it did make for a really sweet ending. I will definitely be reading another Kristen Granata story.
September 3, 2024
Sweet romance with some depth and DV themes. A lot of filler and fluffy at times. I wanted a little more from this, but I’m so happy the author brought some real issues to light. TW: DV, infant/child loss, miscarriage
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October 4, 2020A contemporary romance about courage, loss, and moving on...
*FREE on KU: https://amzn.to/3l6yMpk
An Exclusive Excerpt:
When I hear the click of the front door, a long exhale whooshes out of me. I want to walk upstairs and climb right back into bed, but if I’m going to make things better, I have to start by looking the part. So instead, I drag myself up the stairs and into the bathroom.
It’s been a while since I’ve cared about my appearance. Been a while since I’ve cared about anything, really.
Fake it ‘til you make it, they say.
Flipping on the lights, I shimmy out of my pajama shorts and tear the camisole over my head. I suck in a sharp breath when my eyes land on my reflection in the mirror for the first time this morning. My stomach clenches at the sight of the dark-purple splotches along my left bicep, memories of last night flooding my vision.
Damn you, Mav'. I wanted to stay in bed today.
I blink away the hot tears before they get the chance to brim over, quick to replace the weak emotion with logic.
Paul drank too much last night, and everything we’ve been holding in for the last three years came to a head. It was my fault. I shouldn’t have let things get to that point.
I’ll do better.
It won’t happen again.
Needing a plan rather than wallowing in self-pity, I examine the span of the bruising and mentally scour through my wardrobe for the right sweater. Hopefully today will be brisk enough to wear one without drawing attention to myself. Even if the weather’s hot, I could get away with wearing one of my cardigans with three-quarter-length sleeves. Shouldn’t be too conspicuous.
Deep breath in through the nose, and out through the mouth.
Maverick.
California king bed.
Walk-in closet.
Dream kitchen.
Yard with a pool.
Mercedes.
“I’m fine,” I tell my reflection. “Everything’s fine.”
*FREE on KU: https://amzn.to/3l6yMpk
An Exclusive Excerpt:
When I hear the click of the front door, a long exhale whooshes out of me. I want to walk upstairs and climb right back into bed, but if I’m going to make things better, I have to start by looking the part. So instead, I drag myself up the stairs and into the bathroom.
It’s been a while since I’ve cared about my appearance. Been a while since I’ve cared about anything, really.
Fake it ‘til you make it, they say.
Flipping on the lights, I shimmy out of my pajama shorts and tear the camisole over my head. I suck in a sharp breath when my eyes land on my reflection in the mirror for the first time this morning. My stomach clenches at the sight of the dark-purple splotches along my left bicep, memories of last night flooding my vision.
Damn you, Mav'. I wanted to stay in bed today.
I blink away the hot tears before they get the chance to brim over, quick to replace the weak emotion with logic.
Paul drank too much last night, and everything we’ve been holding in for the last three years came to a head. It was my fault. I shouldn’t have let things get to that point.
I’ll do better.
It won’t happen again.
Needing a plan rather than wallowing in self-pity, I examine the span of the bruising and mentally scour through my wardrobe for the right sweater. Hopefully today will be brisk enough to wear one without drawing attention to myself. Even if the weather’s hot, I could get away with wearing one of my cardigans with three-quarter-length sleeves. Shouldn’t be too conspicuous.
Deep breath in through the nose, and out through the mouth.
Maverick.
California king bed.
Walk-in closet.
Dream kitchen.
Yard with a pool.
Mercedes.
“I’m fine,” I tell my reflection. “Everything’s fine.”
June 5, 2020
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ 5 STARS
Such an emotional, and beautiful story from loss to finding hope! Kristen Granata is a new to me author and I’m impressed with her writing style. Callie and Cole’s story is heartfelt and touching! What’s Left Of Me is an EPIC read that will join the ranks of the BIBLIO-ARISTOCRACY!!!
Such an emotional, and beautiful story from loss to finding hope! Kristen Granata is a new to me author and I’m impressed with her writing style. Callie and Cole’s story is heartfelt and touching! What’s Left Of Me is an EPIC read that will join the ranks of the BIBLIO-ARISTOCRACY!!!
August 13, 2020
I rode it out to the end, but it wasn't my cuppa. I didn't like either of our main characters very much -- never felt a real connection between them or with them. It had a few moments that made me feel a bit sorry for both -- but the situation and the timing just didn't do it for me.
That's it -- nothing more I can add.
That's it -- nothing more I can add.
July 16, 2020
**This is going to be an emotional review, and given how much this book effected me, I wouldn't do this book justice if it wasn't.
Right away you can tell that this isn't going to be a light and easy read. Callie is this beautiful light that is quite literally being beat down by her abusive, alcoholic husband. She seems to think that it's soley her fault for the change in him (they have fertility issues, even though she's done everything humanly possible to fix it, and he has a low sperm count.) They have begin together ever since college, and what was once a sweet and passionate love, turned into a chaotic darkness. Callie convinces herself that if she can get him back to the man she first fell in love with, then maybe the abuse will stop. In some truly heartbreaking inner monologues, Callie believes that if she acts better, determines her husbands moods easier, and draws less attention to herself that sets him off, then maybe she can survive this. But that plan all goes to hell when her best friends brother moves next door.
Cole is no stranger to heartbreak himself. When he moves to be near his sister, he's determined to keep his head down, find work, and to never again get his heart involved. But after a not-so-nice run in with his new neighbors, he knows that he can't leave well enough alone. Cole suspects that Callie's husband is beating her, and even he becomes her safe haven (after some truly intense, devastating scenes) these two find a friendship that gradually turns into an intense, passionate, true love that we should all aim to find. But will both of their personal demons jeopardise their love?
I'll admit I did not expect to be this moved while reading this book. This is my first time reading anything by this author, and I will immediately be reading her backlist as soon as possible. I felt everything that Callie felt: her pain, her isolation, the torture of loving yet hating your abuser, the guilt of being happy, wanting a child so bad that you literally put your body through hell.. I felt it all.
On a personal note, I grew up in a verbally abusive household, so I connected to Callie so much because of that. While reading I heard/remembered all the degradation and unkind word that was thrown my way growing up and I wholeheartedly understood why Callie was so motivated to turn her monster back into the person she once adored. It's such a betrayal seeing someone you love physically or emotionally harm you, and then blaming yourself on top of everything.. It's so much to handle at once. And the way our author tackled these topics with such grace, made this read so cathartic for me. Will I ever forget what was said/done to me? No. But this book made that pain a bit lighter, and that's remarkable.
Cole's story is just as tragic as Callie's, and you can't help but love this tough man with the heart of gold. He and Callie were so perfect in every single way, and I loved everything about them.
This is truly a once in a lifetime book. It's easily one of the best books I've read all year, and one of the best books I've ever read in general. There are definitely triggers, but if you are able to read safely, I encourage everyone to witness how amazing this book really is.
**Trigger warnings: domestic abuse, coerced sexual activity/attempted spousal rape, fertility issues, and loss of a child.
-- There's also multiple quotes/passages that I highlighted that deserves to be shared:
"Getting hit doesn't mean you aren't strong. It means you haven't earned your worth yet."
"Funny how living in a house with a man who hits me doesn't seem so scary when I'm faced with the possibility of staring over. Without him. Alone."
"An apology becomes a lie if you keep doing the thing you're sorry for."
"How can it be that the man comforting me is the same man who raised his hands to hurt me? How am I finding solace in the same arms that broke me down? Why do I miss the person I fled from?"
"How can you say you love me and not know if you want to be with me?"
"The same way you can tell me you love me and hit me."
"The right person won't ask you to sacrifice who you are for his love. Losing yourself in a relationship is never an option. You're the most important thing you've got. You can love someone with your whole best and still stay true to yourself. If he doesn't like that, then he's not the one for you."
"We both exhale, and I don't know who needs this more. The angel caught up in chaos, or the demon searching for his peace."
"I've had if all wrong, Callie. This while time I thought you needed a savior, and I knew I couldn't be that man. But I see if so clearly now. You're my savior. My angel. My redemption."
"You're my angel. My second chance. The hope I stopped believing existed."
"For a long time, I wasn't sure what was left of me after everything I'd endured. Now, I am filled with endless amount of love. Now, I am complete. When you're sure you've lost everything, there's one thing that always remains deep down inside yourself. Hope.
Please, please go read this book. I can't stress enough how amazing it really is!
**I received an ARC of this book and these are my honest opinions!**
Right away you can tell that this isn't going to be a light and easy read. Callie is this beautiful light that is quite literally being beat down by her abusive, alcoholic husband. She seems to think that it's soley her fault for the change in him (they have fertility issues, even though she's done everything humanly possible to fix it, and he has a low sperm count.) They have begin together ever since college, and what was once a sweet and passionate love, turned into a chaotic darkness. Callie convinces herself that if she can get him back to the man she first fell in love with, then maybe the abuse will stop. In some truly heartbreaking inner monologues, Callie believes that if she acts better, determines her husbands moods easier, and draws less attention to herself that sets him off, then maybe she can survive this. But that plan all goes to hell when her best friends brother moves next door.
Cole is no stranger to heartbreak himself. When he moves to be near his sister, he's determined to keep his head down, find work, and to never again get his heart involved. But after a not-so-nice run in with his new neighbors, he knows that he can't leave well enough alone. Cole suspects that Callie's husband is beating her, and even he becomes her safe haven (after some truly intense, devastating scenes) these two find a friendship that gradually turns into an intense, passionate, true love that we should all aim to find. But will both of their personal demons jeopardise their love?
I'll admit I did not expect to be this moved while reading this book. This is my first time reading anything by this author, and I will immediately be reading her backlist as soon as possible. I felt everything that Callie felt: her pain, her isolation, the torture of loving yet hating your abuser, the guilt of being happy, wanting a child so bad that you literally put your body through hell.. I felt it all.
On a personal note, I grew up in a verbally abusive household, so I connected to Callie so much because of that. While reading I heard/remembered all the degradation and unkind word that was thrown my way growing up and I wholeheartedly understood why Callie was so motivated to turn her monster back into the person she once adored. It's such a betrayal seeing someone you love physically or emotionally harm you, and then blaming yourself on top of everything.. It's so much to handle at once. And the way our author tackled these topics with such grace, made this read so cathartic for me. Will I ever forget what was said/done to me? No. But this book made that pain a bit lighter, and that's remarkable.
Cole's story is just as tragic as Callie's, and you can't help but love this tough man with the heart of gold. He and Callie were so perfect in every single way, and I loved everything about them.
This is truly a once in a lifetime book. It's easily one of the best books I've read all year, and one of the best books I've ever read in general. There are definitely triggers, but if you are able to read safely, I encourage everyone to witness how amazing this book really is.
**Trigger warnings: domestic abuse, coerced sexual activity/attempted spousal rape, fertility issues, and loss of a child.
-- There's also multiple quotes/passages that I highlighted that deserves to be shared:
"Getting hit doesn't mean you aren't strong. It means you haven't earned your worth yet."
"Funny how living in a house with a man who hits me doesn't seem so scary when I'm faced with the possibility of staring over. Without him. Alone."
"An apology becomes a lie if you keep doing the thing you're sorry for."
"How can it be that the man comforting me is the same man who raised his hands to hurt me? How am I finding solace in the same arms that broke me down? Why do I miss the person I fled from?"
"How can you say you love me and not know if you want to be with me?"
"The same way you can tell me you love me and hit me."
"The right person won't ask you to sacrifice who you are for his love. Losing yourself in a relationship is never an option. You're the most important thing you've got. You can love someone with your whole best and still stay true to yourself. If he doesn't like that, then he's not the one for you."
"We both exhale, and I don't know who needs this more. The angel caught up in chaos, or the demon searching for his peace."
"I've had if all wrong, Callie. This while time I thought you needed a savior, and I knew I couldn't be that man. But I see if so clearly now. You're my savior. My angel. My redemption."
"You're my angel. My second chance. The hope I stopped believing existed."
"For a long time, I wasn't sure what was left of me after everything I'd endured. Now, I am filled with endless amount of love. Now, I am complete. When you're sure you've lost everything, there's one thing that always remains deep down inside yourself. Hope.
Please, please go read this book. I can't stress enough how amazing it really is!
**I received an ARC of this book and these are my honest opinions!**
October 17, 2021
OK Y'ALL IT WAS A FREE EBOOK THING I DIDN'T KNOW THE COVER LOOKED LIKE THIS STOP JUDGING ME 😭
(it doesn't even line up with the story anyway???? like it's about domestic abuse no one is ever sitting almost naked on rocks by a beach??? theyre literally in the suburbs the entire time)
(it doesn't even line up with the story anyway???? like it's about domestic abuse no one is ever sitting almost naked on rocks by a beach??? theyre literally in the suburbs the entire time)
August 3, 2020
Wow! Kristen hit me with all the feels on this one. Talk about an emotional rollercoaster. Callie’s story was so inspiring. Cole was just a sweetheart. And these two were made for each other. I love that Kristen didn’t shy away from writing about some harsh & brutal topics & she did it with such subtlety & care that it made my heart hurt. I loved the epilogues too. What a fabulous read. All the stars.
July 15, 2020
I had never heard of Kristen Granata, but through fellow ACR’ers I was told that ‘you NEED to read this book’. Since there was nothing, but praise given I decided to give this book a chance and I was so extremely happy that I did. What starts out as a ‘Real Housewives of Orange County’ episode, soon morphed into an episode of SVU. Since meeting Paul in college nine years ago, Callie has had to work to make her marriage work. Sure, Paul and Callie have had some massive issues thrown their way forcing them to adapt and grow together or fail.
I sat on writing this review for too long, because I was so overwhelmed with situations, the twists and turns that they went through, along with some massive speed bumps or detours to Cole and Callie’s storyline. What’s Left of Me was ridiculously incredible and amazing. It is heart and gut-wrenching, super emotional (have tissue ready), has themes of knowing your self-worth along with discovery, forgiveness, and above all, love. Honestly as I read, I had this feeling that Kristen was going to rip the rug out from underneath me and I only had seconds to get my life in order. She had me completely connected and invested to characters/situations.
Callie. I love Callie. Despite going through issues with her husband, she still had an inner fire that was temporarily dimmed, not wanting to rock the boat/outward appearances of ‘everything’s fine’. Now, in doing this, she started to develop anxiety/panic attacks. The following is a list to remind Callie of everything happy/fortunate to have (giving to her by her therapist).
“Maverick
California King Bed
Walk-in closet
Dream Kitchen
Yard with a pool
Mercedes”
Cole is a giant teddy bear with layers of self-hate, a heart encrusted within concrete, and a cape of tragedy that gets heavier and heavier as days go by. Despite his gruffness, anguish, and growly nature, I really liked Cole. Personally, you can feel the hate he has to himself, but what he did not expect was the blonde bombshell from across the street, thinking he was the landscaper. From this moment on, life was changing for him and he was unsure if he liked it.
Count me in as a fan, Kristen. I loved everything that this book entails. She tackled some heavy topics in a safe way as to not offend anyone. There is one thing that I still feel little unanswered, so it is 4.5 stars. Otherwise, What’s Left of Me would be a solid 5.0+.
I sat on writing this review for too long, because I was so overwhelmed with situations, the twists and turns that they went through, along with some massive speed bumps or detours to Cole and Callie’s storyline. What’s Left of Me was ridiculously incredible and amazing. It is heart and gut-wrenching, super emotional (have tissue ready), has themes of knowing your self-worth along with discovery, forgiveness, and above all, love. Honestly as I read, I had this feeling that Kristen was going to rip the rug out from underneath me and I only had seconds to get my life in order. She had me completely connected and invested to characters/situations.
Callie. I love Callie. Despite going through issues with her husband, she still had an inner fire that was temporarily dimmed, not wanting to rock the boat/outward appearances of ‘everything’s fine’. Now, in doing this, she started to develop anxiety/panic attacks. The following is a list to remind Callie of everything happy/fortunate to have (giving to her by her therapist).
“Maverick
California King Bed
Walk-in closet
Dream Kitchen
Yard with a pool
Mercedes”
Cole is a giant teddy bear with layers of self-hate, a heart encrusted within concrete, and a cape of tragedy that gets heavier and heavier as days go by. Despite his gruffness, anguish, and growly nature, I really liked Cole. Personally, you can feel the hate he has to himself, but what he did not expect was the blonde bombshell from across the street, thinking he was the landscaper. From this moment on, life was changing for him and he was unsure if he liked it.
Count me in as a fan, Kristen. I loved everything that this book entails. She tackled some heavy topics in a safe way as to not offend anyone. There is one thing that I still feel little unanswered, so it is 4.5 stars. Otherwise, What’s Left of Me would be a solid 5.0+.
July 7, 2020
“𝑨𝒏𝒅 𝒚𝒐𝒖’𝒓𝒆 𝒎𝒚 𝒉𝒐𝒑𝒆.” 𝑺𝒉𝒆 𝒈𝒓𝒊𝒑𝒔 𝒎𝒚 𝒇𝒂𝒄𝒆, 𝒂𝒏𝒅 𝒐𝒖𝒓 𝒈𝒂𝒛𝒆𝒔 𝒆𝒏𝒕𝒂𝒏𝒈𝒍𝒆. “𝑮𝒊𝒗𝒆 𝒎𝒆 𝒆𝒗𝒆𝒓𝒚𝒕𝒉𝒊𝒏𝒈, 𝑪𝒐𝒍𝒆. 𝑰 𝒘𝒂𝒏𝒕 𝒂𝒍𝒍 𝒐𝒇 𝒚𝒐𝒖.”
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Y’all this was something I didn’t know i needed til i got it.
This is my first book by Kristen & i can’t even begin to give her the praise she deserves. The book discusses tough topics but the way she writes them is something not many can do. Her writing was phenomenal 🙌🏻
She grabbed me from the first page. Had me laughing, crying & sometimes a little upset. But you guys this book was amazing i need you all to preorder a copy NOW you will not regret it i promise.
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*𝚝𝚛𝚒𝚐𝚐𝚎𝚛 𝚠𝚊𝚛𝚗𝚒𝚗𝚐𝚜*
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⠀
Y’all this was something I didn’t know i needed til i got it.
This is my first book by Kristen & i can’t even begin to give her the praise she deserves. The book discusses tough topics but the way she writes them is something not many can do. Her writing was phenomenal 🙌🏻
She grabbed me from the first page. Had me laughing, crying & sometimes a little upset. But you guys this book was amazing i need you all to preorder a copy NOW you will not regret it i promise.
⠀
⠀
*𝚝𝚛𝚒𝚐𝚐𝚎𝚛 𝚠𝚊𝚛𝚗𝚒𝚗𝚐𝚜*
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December 27, 2020
Whew this one really tugs on those heart strings. I don’t really mind books with “triggers” like I can make it through it but I wanted to whoop Paul’s ass. I couldn’t take him or the abuse anymore. I wanted to go round and round with that ass hat.
But then there is Cole. My sweet broken Cole. ❤️
I didn’t cry though some warned me that I would, does that mean I don’t have a heart?
Nonetheless this is an emotional read and I did enjoy it, but there was something missing and don’t ask me what because I have no clue. I just feel I wanted a little more, maybe a little more romance, a little more steam, I don’t know. I can’t put my finger on it.
But then there is Cole. My sweet broken Cole. ❤️
I didn’t cry though some warned me that I would, does that mean I don’t have a heart?
Nonetheless this is an emotional read and I did enjoy it, but there was something missing and don’t ask me what because I have no clue. I just feel I wanted a little more, maybe a little more romance, a little more steam, I don’t know. I can’t put my finger on it.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 17, 2020
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Five freaking stars!! What’s Left of Me left me a blubbering mess! My god! This is only the second book I have read by Kristen and it most definitely won’t be the last. This isn’t just a romance story between two absolutely broken people, it was so much more. It was gut wrenchingly emotional and a real tear-jerker but leaves you with the underlying feeling of hope. Kristen, you have created something so beautiful, I don’t think I will ever be able to put into words my adoration for it.
Callie. Freaking Courageous Callie. My heart! I could not get over the strength she possessed. With the love and support from friends, she learns to stand on her two feet and build her independence. Her character development was heartbreaking to witness but also so uplifting and inspiring.
Cole. I cannot comprehend the pain Cole must have been suffering from. Convincing himself for so long that he caused something he had absolutely no control over, and allowing himself to be consumed by his grief, regret and shame.
Cole and Callie were two broken souls that were drawn together by pain, grief and an overwhelming sadness. Recognising the same struggle within each other and unable to resist the magnetic and electrifying connection, they work on fixing themselves before they can truly be happy.
I’ve said it once, but I’ll say it again, this book was INCREDIBLE! It was raw and so relatable, and I am still thinking about it days after I finished it. I loved every aspect of this novel. I loved the main characters, adored the secondary characters, the writing was exquisite as always and the plot was absolutely perfect. Highest of recommendations!
Trigger: This book does contain domestic abuse, infertility, depression and infant loss. Kristen covers and discusses all mentioned topics with the outmost respect and sensitivity they deserve.
ARC kindly provided in exchange for an honest review.
Five freaking stars!! What’s Left of Me left me a blubbering mess! My god! This is only the second book I have read by Kristen and it most definitely won’t be the last. This isn’t just a romance story between two absolutely broken people, it was so much more. It was gut wrenchingly emotional and a real tear-jerker but leaves you with the underlying feeling of hope. Kristen, you have created something so beautiful, I don’t think I will ever be able to put into words my adoration for it.
Callie. Freaking Courageous Callie. My heart! I could not get over the strength she possessed. With the love and support from friends, she learns to stand on her two feet and build her independence. Her character development was heartbreaking to witness but also so uplifting and inspiring.
Cole. I cannot comprehend the pain Cole must have been suffering from. Convincing himself for so long that he caused something he had absolutely no control over, and allowing himself to be consumed by his grief, regret and shame.
Cole and Callie were two broken souls that were drawn together by pain, grief and an overwhelming sadness. Recognising the same struggle within each other and unable to resist the magnetic and electrifying connection, they work on fixing themselves before they can truly be happy.
I’ve said it once, but I’ll say it again, this book was INCREDIBLE! It was raw and so relatable, and I am still thinking about it days after I finished it. I loved every aspect of this novel. I loved the main characters, adored the secondary characters, the writing was exquisite as always and the plot was absolutely perfect. Highest of recommendations!
Trigger: This book does contain domestic abuse, infertility, depression and infant loss. Kristen covers and discusses all mentioned topics with the outmost respect and sensitivity they deserve.
ARC kindly provided in exchange for an honest review.
July 2, 2020
WHAT'S LEFT OF ME is a very emotional story. How two very different people, that are both broken and have reached rock bottom, can find hope & love. Their journey is not an easy road to travel. Can “What's Left of Me” be made whole again?
Callie Kingston has sunk into a deep depression and has lost all hope. She is at the point were she doesn't want to get out of bed. She repeats all the good things in her life, just like her therapist told her. “Maverick (her beloved dog.) California king bed. Walk-in closet. Dream kitchen. Yard with a pool. Mercedes.” But doesn't mention her husband Paul! She doesn't care about her appearance and it has been a while since she cared about anything other than becoming a mother. Now even that possibility is gone!
She loves her husband, and feels guilty about everything that she felt she'd put him through in her desperate need to have a baby. He is all she has left now. That would just have to be enough. Her husband isn't the same man she fell in love with nine years ago. Nor is their home her safe place it once was. This wasn't the first time he put his hands on her, and wasn't the first time he promised that it wouldn't happen again.
Callie didn't know that her fate was going to change, when she followed Cole Luciano into her neighbor-friend's backyard. She though she was chasing after a new landscaper. What she found in that yard was an angry and bitter man who had issues. He might have more of a broken soul than her. Also she had no clue that Cole was her best friend's brother and would be living in their pool house. Against unlikely odds, this could be the start of something new. He could be her “Hope.” She could be his “Angel.” They could be each others “Redemption.” You must read the book with all the twist & turns. Yet how it turns out in the end is all that really matters.
“In the life that was once mine. With the secrets that were my own. And I choose to smile, because life is all about choices we make. We choose to see things one way or the other. We choose to accept or to hate. We choose to be happy or sad. Bitter or grateful. To forgive or blame.” We always have a choice!
Callie Kingston has sunk into a deep depression and has lost all hope. She is at the point were she doesn't want to get out of bed. She repeats all the good things in her life, just like her therapist told her. “Maverick (her beloved dog.) California king bed. Walk-in closet. Dream kitchen. Yard with a pool. Mercedes.” But doesn't mention her husband Paul! She doesn't care about her appearance and it has been a while since she cared about anything other than becoming a mother. Now even that possibility is gone!
She loves her husband, and feels guilty about everything that she felt she'd put him through in her desperate need to have a baby. He is all she has left now. That would just have to be enough. Her husband isn't the same man she fell in love with nine years ago. Nor is their home her safe place it once was. This wasn't the first time he put his hands on her, and wasn't the first time he promised that it wouldn't happen again.
Callie didn't know that her fate was going to change, when she followed Cole Luciano into her neighbor-friend's backyard. She though she was chasing after a new landscaper. What she found in that yard was an angry and bitter man who had issues. He might have more of a broken soul than her. Also she had no clue that Cole was her best friend's brother and would be living in their pool house. Against unlikely odds, this could be the start of something new. He could be her “Hope.” She could be his “Angel.” They could be each others “Redemption.” You must read the book with all the twist & turns. Yet how it turns out in the end is all that really matters.
“In the life that was once mine. With the secrets that were my own. And I choose to smile, because life is all about choices we make. We choose to see things one way or the other. We choose to accept or to hate. We choose to be happy or sad. Bitter or grateful. To forgive or blame.” We always have a choice!
August 21, 2020
I didn’t not like this book I just didn’t love it. It was definitely a heavy emotional read but I found a few parts repetitive and found my self skimming through the book in some sections. I enjoyed all the characters and loved the connection between Cole and Callie. I also enjoyed the ending it was a Great ending to this heartbreaking book
July 9, 2020
‼️𝑻𝒓𝒊𝒈𝒈𝒆𝒓 𝒘𝒂𝒓𝒏𝒊𝒏𝒈, 𝒑𝒍𝒛 𝒓𝒆𝒂𝒅 𝒕𝒉𝒆 𝑺𝒚𝒏𝒐𝒑𝒔𝒊𝒔 𝒊𝒏𝒄𝒍𝒖𝒅𝒆𝒅 𝒃𝒆𝒍𝒐𝒘 𝒃𝒆𝒇𝒐𝒓𝒆 𝒓𝒆𝒂𝒅𝒊𝒏𝒈‼️
This book is absolutely amazing. You wrote about so many subjects that people are afraid to talk about. I'm very happy that you did.
I wept the entire book because in the early 2000s I lived Callies life. I had a Paul in my life. I literally felt as though this was someone writing my story. For this, I thank you. Reading this book helped me release some weight I didn't know I was still carrying on my shoulders.
I can't even begin to give you the praise you deserve. I laughed, I cried, I re-lived somethings, but it only made me connect more to you as an author.
Thank you for letting people know that there's a light at the end of the tunnel and even a chance at true love as well. 💕
This book is absolutely amazing. You wrote about so many subjects that people are afraid to talk about. I'm very happy that you did.
I wept the entire book because in the early 2000s I lived Callies life. I had a Paul in my life. I literally felt as though this was someone writing my story. For this, I thank you. Reading this book helped me release some weight I didn't know I was still carrying on my shoulders.
I can't even begin to give you the praise you deserve. I laughed, I cried, I re-lived somethings, but it only made me connect more to you as an author.
Thank you for letting people know that there's a light at the end of the tunnel and even a chance at true love as well. 💕
July 13, 2020
Kristen Granata completely blew me away with this book. Not only is it a heart-throbbing romance, but she also touches on such delicate topics with complete accuracy that will leave you feeling many, many emotions. I truly believe there is at least one thing in this book that will resonate with every reader. What’s Left of Me is a book that will stay with me for a very long time. 5 beautiful epic stars.
July 5, 2020
Wow! So much depth and emotion here! I am a Kristen Granata newbie and fully expected a steamy alpha romance, but this was so much more. The romance was fantastic, but the stories of Callie and Cole are so much more than their love. They both had to overcome such big obstacles and hardship to get to their happy ending. I couldn't stop reading.
July 18, 2020
This book amazed me....two people pick what's left of them and make alife out of it....emotional heartbreaking...yet beautiful
April 15, 2022
I generally read low-angst romances, but What’s Left of Me caught my eye and I try to read a new author at least once a month so I gave it a go. Wow. This book will wrap you in so many emotions and is truly heartbreaking at times as our heroine, Callie Kingston, navigates her own personal torment, yet remains hopeful and positive.
Cole Luciano moves in with his sister who is best friends with Callie who lives across the street with her husband. From their very first meeting there was tension and assumptions, and I really admired Callie for recognizing that things aren’t always what they seem. They form a friendship and he calls her out on the secrets she has been keeping and helps her see her self-worth. And he is consumed with guilt over something tragic that happened in his life and can't move passed it. I loved that one-on-one and group therapy was included in this story, and that the author recognizes that self-help starts from within.
This book is about courage, loss, moving on, hope, forgiveness, and trust. I loved how these two broken souls found each other and helped each other heal. How they could admit all of their insecurities and pain and find happiness with one another. There were so many tears and heartbreaking moments, but honestly, I felt the author did a wonderful job describing real life struggles. I loved their slow burn and their journey as friends first then lovers.
I loved Callie’s positive energy and how she naturally went above and beyond to help others, and it can back to her ten fold. They were both so deserving of happiness and had such an intimate connection.
Life can be very hard and we hurt and often don’t know what to do or say. People are often stubborn, but they are fighters and the human spirit is an extraordinary thing. This book was often sad, but it was also filled with hope, love, and healing, and had a very happy ending. If you are looking for a book to tug at your heartstrings, read What’s Left of Me.
Please note: the author provides warnings that this book does include sensitive topics of domestic violence, infertility, miscarriage and SIDS, but it is told very empathetically and is integral to the story.
Cole Luciano moves in with his sister who is best friends with Callie who lives across the street with her husband. From their very first meeting there was tension and assumptions, and I really admired Callie for recognizing that things aren’t always what they seem. They form a friendship and he calls her out on the secrets she has been keeping and helps her see her self-worth. And he is consumed with guilt over something tragic that happened in his life and can't move passed it. I loved that one-on-one and group therapy was included in this story, and that the author recognizes that self-help starts from within.
This book is about courage, loss, moving on, hope, forgiveness, and trust. I loved how these two broken souls found each other and helped each other heal. How they could admit all of their insecurities and pain and find happiness with one another. There were so many tears and heartbreaking moments, but honestly, I felt the author did a wonderful job describing real life struggles. I loved their slow burn and their journey as friends first then lovers.
I loved Callie’s positive energy and how she naturally went above and beyond to help others, and it can back to her ten fold. They were both so deserving of happiness and had such an intimate connection.
Life can be very hard and we hurt and often don’t know what to do or say. People are often stubborn, but they are fighters and the human spirit is an extraordinary thing. This book was often sad, but it was also filled with hope, love, and healing, and had a very happy ending. If you are looking for a book to tug at your heartstrings, read What’s Left of Me.
Please note: the author provides warnings that this book does include sensitive topics of domestic violence, infertility, miscarriage and SIDS, but it is told very empathetically and is integral to the story.
![Profile Image for Amy [Book Addict Reviews].](/_next/image?url=https%3A%2F%2Fi.gr-assets.com%2Fimages%2FS%2Fcompressed.photo.goodreads.com%2Fusers%2F1572307419i%2F47676940._UY200_CR0%2C0%2C200%2C200_.jpg&w=128&q=75)
July 12, 2020
This book. I’m a lot of words. This review has taken me days to write. What’s Left of Me completely gutted me. The moment I started reading I knew I was in for an emotional ride and this was so much more than I expected.
Callie is full of strength. She is dealing with a husband who is beating her down emotionally and physically. She blames herself for her husband’s behavior, she thinks things will get better. They have been together since college and things haven’t always been bad, so she knows things can be great. I just wanted to hug her. In a way, I found Callie to relatable, especially when it comes to the verbal and emotional abuse. I know some of the pain she feels, the blame, so much of it. Cole is going through his own struggles, his own personal tragedy. He is experiencing pain and loss. My heart broke for him and the blame he placed on himself.
The friendship Callie and Cole formed was something they both needed. They leaned on each other for support. They had a connection emotionally and physically. There was amazing passion between the two of them and they slowly healed each other.
What’s Left of Me is an extremely emotional, moving story about hope and love. This book will gut you, it will touch your soul, it will make you feel. This story is a tough read, it won’t be for everyone, but it is a MUST READ.
Callie is full of strength. She is dealing with a husband who is beating her down emotionally and physically. She blames herself for her husband’s behavior, she thinks things will get better. They have been together since college and things haven’t always been bad, so she knows things can be great. I just wanted to hug her. In a way, I found Callie to relatable, especially when it comes to the verbal and emotional abuse. I know some of the pain she feels, the blame, so much of it. Cole is going through his own struggles, his own personal tragedy. He is experiencing pain and loss. My heart broke for him and the blame he placed on himself.
The friendship Callie and Cole formed was something they both needed. They leaned on each other for support. They had a connection emotionally and physically. There was amazing passion between the two of them and they slowly healed each other.
What’s Left of Me is an extremely emotional, moving story about hope and love. This book will gut you, it will touch your soul, it will make you feel. This story is a tough read, it won’t be for everyone, but it is a MUST READ.
July 16, 2020
4.5 stars
This was my first book by Kristen Granata. I will say it was the cover and synopsis that got me to accept the arc. But wow the words are what kept me. Granata has a true gift of storytelling. I could feel the heartbreak in the story. There were times I didn’t want to continue because the story is real to a lot of people. This was an extremely emotional story. While this may be labeled romance, it was so much more. Heartbreak, loss, struggles with self worth and moving on. Callie and Cole will definitely leave an impression on your reader heart.
“The right person won’t ask you to sacrifice who you are for his love. Losing yourself in a relationship is never an option. You’re the most important thing you’ve got. You can love someone with your whole heart, and still stay true to yourself. If he doesn’t like that, then he’s not the one for you. Do you understand?”
I was provided an arc for an honest review.
Trigger warnings- miscarriage, domestic abuse, loss of child, attempted rape.
This was my first book by Kristen Granata. I will say it was the cover and synopsis that got me to accept the arc. But wow the words are what kept me. Granata has a true gift of storytelling. I could feel the heartbreak in the story. There were times I didn’t want to continue because the story is real to a lot of people. This was an extremely emotional story. While this may be labeled romance, it was so much more. Heartbreak, loss, struggles with self worth and moving on. Callie and Cole will definitely leave an impression on your reader heart.
“The right person won’t ask you to sacrifice who you are for his love. Losing yourself in a relationship is never an option. You’re the most important thing you’ve got. You can love someone with your whole heart, and still stay true to yourself. If he doesn’t like that, then he’s not the one for you. Do you understand?”
I was provided an arc for an honest review.
Trigger warnings- miscarriage, domestic abuse, loss of child, attempted rape.
July 15, 2020
“Lesson number one: Take care of yourself. Nobody else will do it better than you can.”
OH.MY.HEART!!!! I don’t even know where to start. The list of quotes I have saved is unbelievably long and it was so difficult to choose only a few for this post. What’s Left of Me was an emotional, heartwrenching and deeply moving story that shattered my heart into a million pieces and then put them all back together. It was a page turner that I couldn’t put it down once I started.
“Anybody can be a victim of abuse. Getting hit doesn’t mean you aren’t strong. It means you haven’t learned your worth yet.”
Callie and Cole’s story brings you on a journey of self discovering, forgiveness, hope and love. This book deals with sensible subject of infertility, loss, physical and verbal abuse which I think Kristen wrote beautifully and with such grace.
I loved Callie’s character. I loved seeing her growing and becoming her own saviour after escaping from her abusive husband. She’s so strong and courageous. She’s a warrior. And Cole, how can you not love Cole. He believed that he didn’t deserve to be happy, that he was destined to be alone for the rest of his life, the price to pay for what he thought he did. Two lost souls that found each other. Two people that found on each other the strength to move forward and to find hope again.
“This all time I thought you need a saviour, and I knew I couldn’t be that man. But I see it so clearly now. You are my saviour.”
“When I look back on that former life, I don’t resent it. It’s a part of me. Part of my journey. So, I carry those scars with me, and I choose to wear them like a badge of honour. Like a warrior.”
I seriously can’t recommend this book highly enough! Thank you so much Kristen Granata for sending me an ARC of What’s left of me in exchange for an honest review.
OH.MY.HEART!!!! I don’t even know where to start. The list of quotes I have saved is unbelievably long and it was so difficult to choose only a few for this post. What’s Left of Me was an emotional, heartwrenching and deeply moving story that shattered my heart into a million pieces and then put them all back together. It was a page turner that I couldn’t put it down once I started.
“Anybody can be a victim of abuse. Getting hit doesn’t mean you aren’t strong. It means you haven’t learned your worth yet.”
Callie and Cole’s story brings you on a journey of self discovering, forgiveness, hope and love. This book deals with sensible subject of infertility, loss, physical and verbal abuse which I think Kristen wrote beautifully and with such grace.
I loved Callie’s character. I loved seeing her growing and becoming her own saviour after escaping from her abusive husband. She’s so strong and courageous. She’s a warrior. And Cole, how can you not love Cole. He believed that he didn’t deserve to be happy, that he was destined to be alone for the rest of his life, the price to pay for what he thought he did. Two lost souls that found each other. Two people that found on each other the strength to move forward and to find hope again.
“This all time I thought you need a saviour, and I knew I couldn’t be that man. But I see it so clearly now. You are my saviour.”
“When I look back on that former life, I don’t resent it. It’s a part of me. Part of my journey. So, I carry those scars with me, and I choose to wear them like a badge of honour. Like a warrior.”
I seriously can’t recommend this book highly enough! Thank you so much Kristen Granata for sending me an ARC of What’s left of me in exchange for an honest review.
August 6, 2023
This is an emotional and inspiring romance that deals with some very heavy topics.
This story follows Callie, a woman in an abusive marriage. After a particularly horrific night, she comes to the realization that she has to leave. She stays with her best friend, who is also temporarily housing her brother Cole.
Our main characters, Callie and a Cole have both experienced trauma. This is a beautiful story of healing, hope and starting over.
I really appreciated how the author added in elements of therapy and women’s group sessions into Callie’s healing journey.
Additional Book info:
• Grumpy Sunshine
• Opposites Attract
• Slow Burn
• Best friends Brother
• Who did this to you?
• Protective MMC
• Dual POV
• Flashback chapters
Please check triggers, here’s a few:
• Miscarriage
• Infertility
• Domestic Abuse
4.25 ⭐️ 1 🌶️
This story follows Callie, a woman in an abusive marriage. After a particularly horrific night, she comes to the realization that she has to leave. She stays with her best friend, who is also temporarily housing her brother Cole.
Our main characters, Callie and a Cole have both experienced trauma. This is a beautiful story of healing, hope and starting over.
I really appreciated how the author added in elements of therapy and women’s group sessions into Callie’s healing journey.
Additional Book info:
• Grumpy Sunshine
• Opposites Attract
• Slow Burn
• Best friends Brother
• Who did this to you?
• Protective MMC
• Dual POV
• Flashback chapters
Please check triggers, here’s a few:
• Miscarriage
• Infertility
• Domestic Abuse
4.25 ⭐️ 1 🌶️
July 17, 2020
Blog Sol and Us
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Eu amei What's Left of Me de Kristen Granata. O livro é cheio de emoção e personagens encantadores. Eu li em um dia, gente. Para uma leitora lenta, isso é grande coisa.
É o tipo de livro que você quer acabar de ler porque quer saber a história toda, e, ao mesmo tempo, não quer que o livro acabe nunca porque se apega às pessoas (fictícias, e daí? Como não adorá-las?).
Uma coisa muito interessante (e eu em momentos de burrice total não marquei – modo desespero ligado) foi o uso de metáforas realcionadas aos elementos da cena para expressar os sentimentos do Cole. Por exemplo, em uma cena com água a autora usou uma metáfora de água para contar os sentimentos do Cole. Foi interessante e inteligente, e deixa a leitura mais prazerosa. É meio poético, não acham?
A Kristen conseguiu tratar os assuntos de forma delicada.
Enfim, eu amei. Nunca tinha lido Kristen Granata antes, e não será a última.
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Sol and Us ▸ https://linktr.ee/solandus2
⋆
Eu amei What's Left of Me de Kristen Granata. O livro é cheio de emoção e personagens encantadores. Eu li em um dia, gente. Para uma leitora lenta, isso é grande coisa.
É o tipo de livro que você quer acabar de ler porque quer saber a história toda, e, ao mesmo tempo, não quer que o livro acabe nunca porque se apega às pessoas (fictícias, e daí? Como não adorá-las?).
Uma coisa muito interessante (e eu em momentos de burrice total não marquei – modo desespero ligado) foi o uso de metáforas realcionadas aos elementos da cena para expressar os sentimentos do Cole. Por exemplo, em uma cena com água a autora usou uma metáfora de água para contar os sentimentos do Cole. Foi interessante e inteligente, e deixa a leitura mais prazerosa. É meio poético, não acham?
A Kristen conseguiu tratar os assuntos de forma delicada.
Enfim, eu amei. Nunca tinha lido Kristen Granata antes, e não será a última.
⋆
Sol and Us ▸ https://linktr.ee/solandus2
August 18, 2020
What an emotional roller-coaster! I got this book on release day because ever since I read Collision by Kristen Granata I have been a fan and I will read everything she writes. However I knew this one was going to be even more emotional than the others and I had to get myself in the right frame of mind before I could even read it. I love Cole and Callie's story, I love what they are for each other. But they did not have an easy path to take to get to each other. But this is more realistic to how relationships work, how our past relationships can change how we see future ones. This is why I like Kristen Granata's books. They are realistic, the characters feel very real, with the same kind of damage that some of us have. It makes them easier to relate to. But one thing you can always count on is great supportive friends for the main characters and that is so very important. I love this book, despite everything these characters go through, I loved it. If I want light and fluffy romance, I read elsewhere. If I want a more realistic romance, I read Kristen Granata's books. Although I will say she always gives you and ending that you want.
July 17, 2020
Wow! It's hard to put into words how I feel after finishing this book! It's my first read by Kristen Granata, and she totally blew me away with her words and this deeply emotional, beautiful, important story! She tackles multiple sensitive subjects with grace, a realistic and poignant point of view, and I loved every single word! Callie and Cole each have their own mountains to climb as the story progresses, and their vulnerability, strength, and even the weaknesses they show inspired me!
While this may be labeled as a romance,(and it totally is) it was so much more! Heartbreak, loss, trauma, abuse, and struggles with self worth. Callie and Cole have left an impression on my heart, and their story is one I won't soon forget. READ THIS BOOK!
5 huge stars for Callie and Cole!
Warnings: domestic abuse, infertility, PTSD.
I received in arc in exchange for my review.
Find me on IG @thevocalromancer
While this may be labeled as a romance,(and it totally is) it was so much more! Heartbreak, loss, trauma, abuse, and struggles with self worth. Callie and Cole have left an impression on my heart, and their story is one I won't soon forget. READ THIS BOOK!
5 huge stars for Callie and Cole!
Warnings: domestic abuse, infertility, PTSD.
I received in arc in exchange for my review.
Find me on IG @thevocalromancer
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