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Blinded by Love #1
Take It All
***Inspired by true events***
Judy Garland said it best, ‘For it was not into my ear you whispered but into my heart. It was not my lips you kissed but my soul.’
If you asked her why she loved him, she would only be able to tell you it was because he was who he was and well, she was who she was.
Plain and simple.
All her life Lennox Ward felt incomplete. That her heart was always searching for that one special thing; that special someone she had yet to find.
Then Caleb Kingston came strolling back into her life unexpectedly, and little did she know her world was about to come crashing down around her; forever shattering it.
Is love enough to conquer all?
Will she be able to lead them out of hell and off their path of self destruction?
Or will Caleb take it all?
*This book contains mature subject matter and is not intended for those under 17 years of age.*
Judy Garland said it best, ‘For it was not into my ear you whispered but into my heart. It was not my lips you kissed but my soul.’
If you asked her why she loved him, she would only be able to tell you it was because he was who he was and well, she was who she was.
Plain and simple.
All her life Lennox Ward felt incomplete. That her heart was always searching for that one special thing; that special someone she had yet to find.
Then Caleb Kingston came strolling back into her life unexpectedly, and little did she know her world was about to come crashing down around her; forever shattering it.
Is love enough to conquer all?
Will she be able to lead them out of hell and off their path of self destruction?
Or will Caleb take it all?
*This book contains mature subject matter and is not intended for those under 17 years of age.*
378 pages, Kindle Edition
First published August 9, 2013
16 people are currently reading
1376 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 55 reviews
October 2, 2014
Okay so this has to be said. I don’t like Caleb. I said it. I’m not taking it back! This series, Blinded by Love, really is true to the name. You can’t help you fall in love with, which was stated a few times in the book, but my god Caleb is such a douche bagging, lying bastard that I wanted to jump into the book and kick. His. ASS!
Boy meets girl. Then he is gone. Reuniting several years later.So now we have Caleb & Lennox all grown up in their early twenties, who reunite fall in love and all that. But Caleb is a liar. And he is good at it. Until he slips up & can’t lie no more. I can’t stress enough of the point that this series being named Blinded by Love is true to the title, because with Caleb the way he is I couldn’t imagine staying by his lying douche bagging ass if I wasn’t in love with him. To be honest, I felt that Raine had more love for Lennox then Caleb did. I didn’t feel the love Caleb claimed he had for Lennox, I don’t know, maybe it’s because of his lies I could’t trust a bloody word he said. Caleb didn’t know how good he had it. A good women who loved him fierce. I felt he abused Lennox’s love more than anything, that I just couldn’t trust Caleb, nor could I feel a bond between them.
Raine = Swoon (Okay, so Caleb is the ‘hero’ in this book, but I couldn’t write this review and NOT mention Raine. Thats just silly talk. We can’t forget Raine. Swoon worthy, hot Raine. Melt in the heat Raine. Rain on me and make me wet Raine. Okay thats enough better move on..)
(This picture is different from my review as when I was searching for it, I came across this and thought it was so cute.)
My god this boy made me swoon. To sum up Raine in one word it would have to be Loyal. He was so loyal to Lennox. I felt so much love from him for Lennox it was so sweet, it sucked because I could totally see Lennox being in love with Raine, if she wasn’t in love with Caleb.I don’t want to say more, I don’t want to hurt the author in any way if she was to read my review.. I can’t wait for the next book. What an ending! Ugh we have to wait! I hope it all works out.
See my review
http://tinasbookblog.booklikes.com/po...-
May 31, 2015
Time for a bit of romance I thought.
Time for romance with some guts.
I don't read romance often, it has to be something that seems/looks to stand out as a bit different from the norm.
I can't say this stood out from other romances like this, but I can say its written VERY well.
Because of how this made me feel whilst reading this I have selected 3.5 stars.
Its a pretty straight forward story.
BUT its full of emotions, that it what made it go up in my admiration. I have a daughter, her heart was broken. Many times. As a Mother I know how that feels watching on.
Lennox and Caleb.
Caleb is gutless. I would have kicked him to the kerb many times and left him there the final time to rot.
Promises to change.
When people say "I promise to change" "I promise to....." empty words if they don't back it up with actions.
Lennox went through open heart emptiness in many different ways.
Dealing with addiction is not easy, but it starts with ADMITTANCE which Caleb found hard to do and left Lennox swimming in an ocean of sharks.
Love is never easy is it.
I am off to read book 2 as I need to know the next cycle of this captivating story.
My thanks to the author for this copy.
August 14, 2013
I started 'Take it All' and it immediately sucked me in, I couldn't stop reading! Lennox and Caleb's story is one that I will never forget! Two people who are best friend's from childhood, Caleb moves away. They don't see or talk to each other for years. Finally finding one another again sparks fly. Caleb has completely changed and is battling with addiction. Lennox loves him and wants to save him and have a future. Lennox starts to lose a bit of herself everyday.Does Caleb want to beat his addiction? Can Lennox save him?
Raine is one of Lennox's best friend's. He's there for her at every turn. All Lennox needs is to pick up the phone and he's there. True friendship.
I sobbed my heart out at TIA. It terrified me at the same time. Must read!
Thank you Emma for sharing Lennox and Caleb's story. I can't wait for 'Promise it All'!
Raine is one of Lennox's best friend's. He's there for her at every turn. All Lennox needs is to pick up the phone and he's there. True friendship.
I sobbed my heart out at TIA. It terrified me at the same time. Must read!
Thank you Emma for sharing Lennox and Caleb's story. I can't wait for 'Promise it All'!
August 17, 2013
Holy cliffhanger alert!
So Take It All is a story about real, raw, all-consuming love that two people have for each other. The story plays out as it would in real life, Caleb and Lennox are real people that have real issues as a couple and as individuals. Ms. Grayson did an impeccable job at writing this all-consuming love story. She wrote this story with so much emotion that you can feel every emotion that Lennox feels and even what Caleb feels to an extent.
From the beginning Emma Grayson as made it a point that this story is based on her life experiences, and to me that made it so much more real to me. Other readers may not agree with the decisions that Lennox makes in the book or don't believe that parts of this story could happen how they did but ,as Ms. Grayson said in the beginning, no one knows what they would do in her situation until they are in it. However, as I've already said this story is real and can happen & does happen in real life. Maybe I've felt more for this story because I have people with addictions in my life but what I know is that we are not alone and whether known or not many people know someone one way or another that have addictions whether to alcohol, cocaine, meth, sex, work, etc. they are addicts and have love ones that want to help them but can't until they want to help themselves.
I want to thank Emma Grayson for writing this story knowing that not everyone would connect with the characters and that those same people would write bad reviews, some being rude but I think this story needed to be told and read. Needed to be read to show people the love addicts that they re not alone and that not every 'bad boy' can be helped just by their true love walking into their life, that some need to want the help for themselves. Also, the playlist rocked my freakin' socks off!
Bottom line: read this story because it is different from the other bad boy meets good girl and they have their HEAs with each other. This story is a raw love story about a love that is so strong and blinding that a person is willing to do anything for the other.
So Take It All is a story about real, raw, all-consuming love that two people have for each other. The story plays out as it would in real life, Caleb and Lennox are real people that have real issues as a couple and as individuals. Ms. Grayson did an impeccable job at writing this all-consuming love story. She wrote this story with so much emotion that you can feel every emotion that Lennox feels and even what Caleb feels to an extent.
From the beginning Emma Grayson as made it a point that this story is based on her life experiences, and to me that made it so much more real to me. Other readers may not agree with the decisions that Lennox makes in the book or don't believe that parts of this story could happen how they did but ,as Ms. Grayson said in the beginning, no one knows what they would do in her situation until they are in it. However, as I've already said this story is real and can happen & does happen in real life. Maybe I've felt more for this story because I have people with addictions in my life but what I know is that we are not alone and whether known or not many people know someone one way or another that have addictions whether to alcohol, cocaine, meth, sex, work, etc. they are addicts and have love ones that want to help them but can't until they want to help themselves.
I want to thank Emma Grayson for writing this story knowing that not everyone would connect with the characters and that those same people would write bad reviews, some being rude but I think this story needed to be told and read. Needed to be read to show people the love addicts that they re not alone and that not every 'bad boy' can be helped just by their true love walking into their life, that some need to want the help for themselves. Also, the playlist rocked my freakin' socks off!
Bottom line: read this story because it is different from the other bad boy meets good girl and they have their HEAs with each other. This story is a raw love story about a love that is so strong and blinding that a person is willing to do anything for the other.
May 20, 2018
What a rollercoaster of a book. I don't know if I hate or feel sorry for Caleb !! Ok I feel sorry for him ( a wee bit). its well written and addicts are the way he is liars and manipulative but i did think he truly loved her. he has to really want to get help and i hoped Lennox was that reason. :( I felt she was a little weak and could have been a bit stronger in character plus her parent were way way way to cool with the fact he had drug issues. I loved her mates and i hope they get their own stories!! Raine would have been perfect for her but in the end caleb gave her the butterflies!! I hope the ending is a good enough reason for him to get clean!! HURRY UP BOOK 2!!!!
August 12, 2013
This book was fantastic!!! Can't wait for the next one!!!
September 2, 2013
“He was her all, he would always be her all, and she knew it the day he unexpectedly walked back into her life. That moment when their eyes met, she knew they were made for one another; that they were meant to be. They were each other’s missing piece and he found her, in all his glory, grabbing her by her heart and soul and never letting go.”
The story about two childhood friends who got back into each others lives after 10 years. About the love they have for each other. About the life of an drug addict. His struggle with drugs through the eyes of his love one. About all she went through because the love she has for him.
Lennox always dreamed that she will end up with Caleb, but then he moved and she didn´t saw him until their date 10 years later.
But people change. Something happens and they are not like you remember they were.
They were things Lennox didn´t know about Caleb. Things that he hided from her. Things that if she found out she would run away from him.
But she didn´t. She felt betrayed but she didn´t left him. She knew that there wasn´t going back. That she loved him no matter what. That she can´t be without him.
“I’m too far gone to walk away from you,” she said softly, her heart racing in her chest as her stomach tightened with anxiety. “I’m crazy in love with you, Caleb. I have been since I was a little girl.” She shrugged her shoulders, “I love you, so much so that it hurts to breathe or be away from you.”
It was sweet and beautiful that two childhood friends got back into each others lives.
Their story is emotional, overwhelming. You could see, you could feel the love they have for each other.
But the hard parts to read were how Lennox felt seeing Caleb using drugs. How she was scared that something will happen to Caleb when she fell asleep or when she wasn´t with him.
She saw him use drugs. She saw his mood swings. She was with the whole time because she loved him. She thought she could help, him save him. But you can´t save or help someone who doesn´t want it.
You never know what you gonna do in the name of love, because of love, until life puts you in a situation that you have to make a decision.
When you love some with so much power strength with all of your being you stand by your love one cause you can´t imagine being without the love one. You don´t leave their side cause you are blinded by love.
I loved Raine. I loved the way their friendship grew. How he was always there for her. But she didn´t love him. When she was around him that feeling wasn˙t no way near how she felt when she was around Caleb.
Caleb made her all on fire. She wasn´t herself when she was with him.
Raine made her feel comfortable she didn˙t feel any sparks when she was with him.
I won´t judge Caleb. I won´t judge his decisions or why he is using drugs. It isn´t on me. I just hope that his love for Lennox will be strong enough to help him beat his addiction. That he´ll hit the rock bottom and admit that he needs help.
This is the book I didn´t put down until I finished it.
It wasn´t easy to read especially when you know that it was based on true events. It made all of my emotions much more stronger, deeper.
I lived through every single word. Through everything Lennox went like it was my own story.
The end left me speechless. I can´t wait for the 2 book.
I just hope that their story has a beautiful conclusion. That Caleb was able to beat his drug addiction so he could be with his love and have his happily ever after. These are my hopes for something I wish will happen in the conclusion of their story.
I know that things don´t end the way we want in real life but that’s what we seek from books. Escape from reality. Happily ever after.
But even if happily ever after doesn´t happen for Lennox and Caleb I hope that she´ll have her.
≧◔◡◔≦ 5 ✰ read ≧◉◡◉≦
>>>ARC received in exchange for an honest review<<<
The story about two childhood friends who got back into each others lives after 10 years. About the love they have for each other. About the life of an drug addict. His struggle with drugs through the eyes of his love one. About all she went through because the love she has for him.
Lennox always dreamed that she will end up with Caleb, but then he moved and she didn´t saw him until their date 10 years later.
But people change. Something happens and they are not like you remember they were.
They were things Lennox didn´t know about Caleb. Things that he hided from her. Things that if she found out she would run away from him.
But she didn´t. She felt betrayed but she didn´t left him. She knew that there wasn´t going back. That she loved him no matter what. That she can´t be without him.
“I’m too far gone to walk away from you,” she said softly, her heart racing in her chest as her stomach tightened with anxiety. “I’m crazy in love with you, Caleb. I have been since I was a little girl.” She shrugged her shoulders, “I love you, so much so that it hurts to breathe or be away from you.”
It was sweet and beautiful that two childhood friends got back into each others lives.
Their story is emotional, overwhelming. You could see, you could feel the love they have for each other.
But the hard parts to read were how Lennox felt seeing Caleb using drugs. How she was scared that something will happen to Caleb when she fell asleep or when she wasn´t with him.
She saw him use drugs. She saw his mood swings. She was with the whole time because she loved him. She thought she could help, him save him. But you can´t save or help someone who doesn´t want it.
You never know what you gonna do in the name of love, because of love, until life puts you in a situation that you have to make a decision.
When you love some with so much power strength with all of your being you stand by your love one cause you can´t imagine being without the love one. You don´t leave their side cause you are blinded by love.
I loved Raine. I loved the way their friendship grew. How he was always there for her. But she didn´t love him. When she was around him that feeling wasn˙t no way near how she felt when she was around Caleb.
Caleb made her all on fire. She wasn´t herself when she was with him.
Raine made her feel comfortable she didn˙t feel any sparks when she was with him.
I won´t judge Caleb. I won´t judge his decisions or why he is using drugs. It isn´t on me. I just hope that his love for Lennox will be strong enough to help him beat his addiction. That he´ll hit the rock bottom and admit that he needs help.
This is the book I didn´t put down until I finished it.
It wasn´t easy to read especially when you know that it was based on true events. It made all of my emotions much more stronger, deeper.
I lived through every single word. Through everything Lennox went like it was my own story.
The end left me speechless. I can´t wait for the 2 book.
I just hope that their story has a beautiful conclusion. That Caleb was able to beat his drug addiction so he could be with his love and have his happily ever after. These are my hopes for something I wish will happen in the conclusion of their story.
I know that things don´t end the way we want in real life but that’s what we seek from books. Escape from reality. Happily ever after.
But even if happily ever after doesn´t happen for Lennox and Caleb I hope that she´ll have her.
≧◔◡◔≦ 5 ✰ read ≧◉◡◉≦
>>>ARC received in exchange for an honest review<<<
August 28, 2013
Have you ever fallen head over heels, tumbling down the rabbit hole, over the moon in love? Have you ever met someone that makes you feel so profoundly that you are willing to overlook all of their faults just to be with them? To swallow the disappointment that rises in your throat and hang on to your faith that they will change? That next time will be different? For Lennox, Caleb was that person. But change is never easy. It is grueling. It is exhausting. It is not for the weak at heart. It takes commitment and determination. Most importantly the person changing must want to change for themselves, and no other. Only then will they truly be able to follow through.
The story of Lennox and Caleb is hopeful and hopeless. Uplifting and drowning. It is sunshine and darkness. It is every emotion, good and bad, melded into one enormous roller coaster ride. I am literally sitting here with my stomach in knots.
Lennox is a young woman living in a small town in Canada. She has great parents and an close network of amazing friends. Even though she has not had an abundance of romance in her life she is content. At least she thought she was until she is set up on a blind date. That one evening sitting in a booth of a local coffee shop changed her life forever. The moment her eyes meet the gaze of Caleb's from across the room there was a spark that ignited something deep within and she knew she would never be the same again.
Seeing those familiar honey colored eyes in that busy restaurant lit something in Caleb. Those eyes became the lighthouse shinning through the haze leading his way home. Only the raging storm of his own creation may never allow him peace. He is the only one who can decide if he is willing to change course and weather the tempest.
There were moments when I want to scream at Lennox. Tell her to pull her head from the clouds. To tell her that the pain wasn't worth it. But I felt her love for Caleb, as irrational as it might seem. I felt my heart squeeze with hope. Maybe this time would be different. Perhaps Caleb would prove me wrong. God, I wanted him to prove me wrong.
This novel is inspired by true events. Knowing that made the journey even more treacherous.
The quest of Lennox and Caleb wasn't a figment of the author's imagination or a plot that developed in her mind. These were scenes based on moments that really happened. For me, that added a whole new level of connection to the characters. I was truly seeing a glimpse into someone's life. It also gave me an enormous amount of respect for the author and the courage it must have taken to write this.
There is one other person in this novel that I believe deserves special mention. Raine. He is the embodiment of a true friend and an amazing man. The way he was always there for Lennox. Quick to lend a shoulder to cry on or an warm embrace. I would love to meet the real person behind his inspiration.
If you haven't read Take It All yet you need to. Today!
Happy Reading!!
Swooning Over Books
The story of Lennox and Caleb is hopeful and hopeless. Uplifting and drowning. It is sunshine and darkness. It is every emotion, good and bad, melded into one enormous roller coaster ride. I am literally sitting here with my stomach in knots.
Lennox is a young woman living in a small town in Canada. She has great parents and an close network of amazing friends. Even though she has not had an abundance of romance in her life she is content. At least she thought she was until she is set up on a blind date. That one evening sitting in a booth of a local coffee shop changed her life forever. The moment her eyes meet the gaze of Caleb's from across the room there was a spark that ignited something deep within and she knew she would never be the same again.
Seeing those familiar honey colored eyes in that busy restaurant lit something in Caleb. Those eyes became the lighthouse shinning through the haze leading his way home. Only the raging storm of his own creation may never allow him peace. He is the only one who can decide if he is willing to change course and weather the tempest.
There were moments when I want to scream at Lennox. Tell her to pull her head from the clouds. To tell her that the pain wasn't worth it. But I felt her love for Caleb, as irrational as it might seem. I felt my heart squeeze with hope. Maybe this time would be different. Perhaps Caleb would prove me wrong. God, I wanted him to prove me wrong.
This novel is inspired by true events. Knowing that made the journey even more treacherous.
The quest of Lennox and Caleb wasn't a figment of the author's imagination or a plot that developed in her mind. These were scenes based on moments that really happened. For me, that added a whole new level of connection to the characters. I was truly seeing a glimpse into someone's life. It also gave me an enormous amount of respect for the author and the courage it must have taken to write this.
There is one other person in this novel that I believe deserves special mention. Raine. He is the embodiment of a true friend and an amazing man. The way he was always there for Lennox. Quick to lend a shoulder to cry on or an warm embrace. I would love to meet the real person behind his inspiration.
If you haven't read Take It All yet you need to. Today!
Happy Reading!!
Swooning Over Books
August 23, 2013
This is one of those stay up all night, finish in one sitting books. Take it All is a heartbreaking story of a love that can destroy you and it leaves you feeling you got hit by a semi... in a good and bad way. This was not what I was expecting at all, I imagined a good-feeling, HEA, love story like most of the other New Adult books out there. While Take it All does have some feel good moments do not expect to walk away feeling light-hearted and mushy. I think this is one of the grittiest, captivating, and heart-wrenching stories I have ever read. I am normally a HEA junkie, but Take it All is so worth the read, I cannot even fully explain it. Lennox and Caleb's relationship gave me a total love-hate feeling.
I think what made this book was that it was inspired by the author's real life experiences. I cannot applaud Emma Grayson more for her bravery in sharing her story with us. It may not be all happy and rainbows but this book deals with real situations that will hit home with some, and will expose others to a world that is dark, dangerous and seductive. I don't know how she does it, but Emma Grayson pulled me in and made me feel like I was seeing everything happen real-time. I wanted to reach out and shake and hug both Caleb and Lennox, and bow at Raine's feet for being such a world class friend.
These are real life circumstances, that no one can begin to understand unless they have lived it and even then no one is ever ready or prepared to deal with this sort of heartbreak. I think everyone should have a bit of reality tucked between the fiction on their bookshelves and Take it All is definitely that douse of reality. One of the other things I loved about Take it All is that it does not read like a biography. If I had not read that it was based on true events I would have never known. I have to be truthful, I almost set the book down because I kind of knew where it was leading and it made me a bit uncomfortable. I have not been more grateful for my perseverance before. I do not regret for a single minute reading this book and I am anxiously awaiting the conclusion that is coming in the winter. Even though, this is an profoundly intense book it is not without its comedic relief provided by Lennox's best friends Londyn and Tatum and, of course, Raine and a few other secondary characters. I don't want to send the wrong message and put people off of this book, it is not all crying, heart break and despair, you will get a dose of happy, loving and a few laughs as well. Take it All has all of the elements of a best-selling novel, and all of the intensity of a book that will break your heart. This is by far one of my favorite books of the year. If you have not picked up your copy of Take it All go for it, I promise you will not be disappointed and make sure to show your love to Ms. Emma Grayson.
*Originally posted on: samebookdifferentreview.blogspot.com
*ARC received in exchange for an honest review*
I think what made this book was that it was inspired by the author's real life experiences. I cannot applaud Emma Grayson more for her bravery in sharing her story with us. It may not be all happy and rainbows but this book deals with real situations that will hit home with some, and will expose others to a world that is dark, dangerous and seductive. I don't know how she does it, but Emma Grayson pulled me in and made me feel like I was seeing everything happen real-time. I wanted to reach out and shake and hug both Caleb and Lennox, and bow at Raine's feet for being such a world class friend.
These are real life circumstances, that no one can begin to understand unless they have lived it and even then no one is ever ready or prepared to deal with this sort of heartbreak. I think everyone should have a bit of reality tucked between the fiction on their bookshelves and Take it All is definitely that douse of reality. One of the other things I loved about Take it All is that it does not read like a biography. If I had not read that it was based on true events I would have never known. I have to be truthful, I almost set the book down because I kind of knew where it was leading and it made me a bit uncomfortable. I have not been more grateful for my perseverance before. I do not regret for a single minute reading this book and I am anxiously awaiting the conclusion that is coming in the winter. Even though, this is an profoundly intense book it is not without its comedic relief provided by Lennox's best friends Londyn and Tatum and, of course, Raine and a few other secondary characters. I don't want to send the wrong message and put people off of this book, it is not all crying, heart break and despair, you will get a dose of happy, loving and a few laughs as well. Take it All has all of the elements of a best-selling novel, and all of the intensity of a book that will break your heart. This is by far one of my favorite books of the year. If you have not picked up your copy of Take it All go for it, I promise you will not be disappointed and make sure to show your love to Ms. Emma Grayson.
*Originally posted on: samebookdifferentreview.blogspot.com
*ARC received in exchange for an honest review*
September 24, 2013
I think that I am still recovering emotionally from this roller coaster ride. To say that this book is up and down with emotion is an understatement. It's not an easy ready by any means once you realize that this is pretty much a true story in a young girls life. Some of the unthinkable things that happen in this story will probably enrage you like they did me. I personally had a difficult time reading it knowing how drugs and alcohol addiction can ruin lives. And yes I speak from some personal experience where that is concerned. The hardest part is watching someone go through something and not knowing how to reach them and make them understand that they are better then the addiction and they can beat it. I felt for Lennox all throughout the book. Even though some of it was truly aggravating I understood why she wanted to stay and stick with Caleb and give him hope... Knowing that there is an unknown conclusion to this one I am terrified to read what more Lennox goes through in her path.
This book ended with quite a cliffhanger and though I wasn't totally shocked about it, I felt worried and scared for her being that things just got turned upside down yet again for her but now there was going to be a whole new aspect to deal with. Reaching Caleb isn't going to be an easy task, he's pretty far gone at this point.
The mention of him hitting "rock bottom" made a lot of sense through the end of the book and it is truly harsh reality but hopefully Lennox doesn't hit "rock bottom" with him.
This is a great story about selflessness to a fault, and the belief that Love will conquer all. I'm not sure I am a true believe in that but honestly I want to see it work out for these two they are so young and they deserve a long and happy life! Guess we will find out in the conclusion soon! Over all I give the story 4 stars. I love Emma's writing, but at times I did feel myself getting a little distracted. There were times in the beginning it was a little mundane, but then quickly picked up and moved quite fast at about 50%. I think that you will enjoy this story overall and I personally am dying to see what happens next...
This book ended with quite a cliffhanger and though I wasn't totally shocked about it, I felt worried and scared for her being that things just got turned upside down yet again for her but now there was going to be a whole new aspect to deal with. Reaching Caleb isn't going to be an easy task, he's pretty far gone at this point.
The mention of him hitting "rock bottom" made a lot of sense through the end of the book and it is truly harsh reality but hopefully Lennox doesn't hit "rock bottom" with him.
This is a great story about selflessness to a fault, and the belief that Love will conquer all. I'm not sure I am a true believe in that but honestly I want to see it work out for these two they are so young and they deserve a long and happy life! Guess we will find out in the conclusion soon! Over all I give the story 4 stars. I love Emma's writing, but at times I did feel myself getting a little distracted. There were times in the beginning it was a little mundane, but then quickly picked up and moved quite fast at about 50%. I think that you will enjoy this story overall and I personally am dying to see what happens next...
August 22, 2013
Wow, what a story.
I just finished Take it All by Emma Grayson and what a story about
Lennox and Caleb. I will always associate their names together. This story was beautifully written. This is based on real life events for Emma and man to put yourself out there takes courage and a whole lot of strength.
It is about Lennox and Caleb, they were neighbors and friends when they were younger and ended up re-uniting and become girlfriend and boyfriend
Lennon is awesome, her take no crap attitude with all that she had to put up with to me makes her one of the most strongest girl leads I have read. I just feel for her
Caleb, what can I say, sexy and sweet but does have a drug problem.
Its different reading about stuff like this, but what you read is honestly what happens in a relationship where drugs are involved. Lying, broken promises. I really felt for them. I know it would have to be hard to quit, and even if you have the best support system out there, you have to want to quit. You have to hit rock bottom to quit.
This story takes us through the happy moments, the intense moments and then the sad moments. I was really in mind, yelling at Lennox as to why she is staying. I was yelling at Caleb why are you doing this to her. That is what a great story is all about. The secondary characters were awesome. Raine and Emerson my favorite.
I honestly don't know what Lennox would do without them, her choices would be different and I don't think it would have ended right. I honestly cannot wait to see what happens. Apart of me wishes that there were not cliffhangers because of that very reason, I have to now wait..lol. Super excited!
5 stars for story!
4 stars for sexy/steamy scene!
I just finished Take it All by Emma Grayson and what a story about
Lennox and Caleb. I will always associate their names together. This story was beautifully written. This is based on real life events for Emma and man to put yourself out there takes courage and a whole lot of strength.
It is about Lennox and Caleb, they were neighbors and friends when they were younger and ended up re-uniting and become girlfriend and boyfriend
Lennon is awesome, her take no crap attitude with all that she had to put up with to me makes her one of the most strongest girl leads I have read. I just feel for her
Caleb, what can I say, sexy and sweet but does have a drug problem.
Its different reading about stuff like this, but what you read is honestly what happens in a relationship where drugs are involved. Lying, broken promises. I really felt for them. I know it would have to be hard to quit, and even if you have the best support system out there, you have to want to quit. You have to hit rock bottom to quit.
This story takes us through the happy moments, the intense moments and then the sad moments. I was really in mind, yelling at Lennox as to why she is staying. I was yelling at Caleb why are you doing this to her. That is what a great story is all about. The secondary characters were awesome. Raine and Emerson my favorite.
I honestly don't know what Lennox would do without them, her choices would be different and I don't think it would have ended right. I honestly cannot wait to see what happens. Apart of me wishes that there were not cliffhangers because of that very reason, I have to now wait..lol. Super excited!
5 stars for story!
4 stars for sexy/steamy scene!
August 30, 2014
TASH'S REVIEW -
"I love you" - Lennox
"I love you too, baby, so damn much,"- Caleb
Emma Grayson wrote Take It All based on true life events, and let me just say that I believe it gave it an extra added depth to the book and let you connect to the characters and their story more thoroughly.
Love doesn’t begin or end the way we think it does. It’s more than butterflies fluttering in your stomach when your eyes meet for the first time. It’s more than a spark you feel when your lips touch, igniting your flesh with a flame that licks your body; the feeling forever locked in your depths of your heart and soul.
It’s a battle; a war. It’s growing up. And sometimes it’s completely toxic.
This book shows that once you find someone you love it’s not all a happy ever after, but even though you found love a relationship takes work and there are so many other issues in the real life that can affect that.
Lennox is a girl that had a deal breaker for any relationship she entered, one thing she would not tolerate! But what happens when she falls for the one guy that goes against everything she believes in? Will she stay, or is it too much for her?
... deep down she knew it was, and that she would have stayed with him regardless of the standards she had when it came to drug use.
I loved reading this book and feeling the emotions that Caleb and Lennox went through. The book was all in Lennox’s P.O.V but the author still conveyed Caleb’s character emotionally.
The only negative I have about the book is that it ends on a semi cliffhanger and I can’t wait for the next book Promise it All to see the ending of Caleb and Lennox’s story.
Amazing work Emma!
"I love you" - Lennox
"I love you too, baby, so damn much,"- Caleb
Emma Grayson wrote Take It All based on true life events, and let me just say that I believe it gave it an extra added depth to the book and let you connect to the characters and their story more thoroughly.
Love doesn’t begin or end the way we think it does. It’s more than butterflies fluttering in your stomach when your eyes meet for the first time. It’s more than a spark you feel when your lips touch, igniting your flesh with a flame that licks your body; the feeling forever locked in your depths of your heart and soul.
It’s a battle; a war. It’s growing up. And sometimes it’s completely toxic.
This book shows that once you find someone you love it’s not all a happy ever after, but even though you found love a relationship takes work and there are so many other issues in the real life that can affect that.
Lennox is a girl that had a deal breaker for any relationship she entered, one thing she would not tolerate! But what happens when she falls for the one guy that goes against everything she believes in? Will she stay, or is it too much for her?
... deep down she knew it was, and that she would have stayed with him regardless of the standards she had when it came to drug use.
I loved reading this book and feeling the emotions that Caleb and Lennox went through. The book was all in Lennox’s P.O.V but the author still conveyed Caleb’s character emotionally.
The only negative I have about the book is that it ends on a semi cliffhanger and I can’t wait for the next book Promise it All to see the ending of Caleb and Lennox’s story.
Amazing work Emma!
August 27, 2013
Take It All was Emma Grayson baring her soul for the world. It was uncomfortably personal and terrifyingly real. I wanted to stop, put it down, bury my head in the sand and make up all kinds of happy endings for Lennox and Caleb.
Lennox’s story was the kind that makes your heart break and makes you never want to have a daughter or if you do, to lock her in a room where no one can break her heart.
She’s the small town girl with a beautiful life ahead of her. Caleb is her childhood love. He’s also a drug dealer. An addict. A liar. A manipulator. But she loves him.
Does Lennox stay and fight for the sliver of a chance that she can save him? Or does she take what she’s been given and save herself?
Take It All was Heartbreaking. Desolate. Honest. Raw. And above all, REAL.
I’ve been a huge fan of Emma Grayson since her debut novel, Unbeautifully Loved. She has this way of writing that cuts to the bone and holds you captive from start to finish.
And what I loved about Take It All was its honesty, its almost journal-like feel. There are phrasing errors and grammatical mistakes which would usually drive me crazy but which in Take It All felt rough and imperfect, like a journal.
Advice: have a box of Kleenex handy. And a punching bag so you can pretend to punch Caleb’s face in.
Lennox’s story was the kind that makes your heart break and makes you never want to have a daughter or if you do, to lock her in a room where no one can break her heart.
She’s the small town girl with a beautiful life ahead of her. Caleb is her childhood love. He’s also a drug dealer. An addict. A liar. A manipulator. But she loves him.
Does Lennox stay and fight for the sliver of a chance that she can save him? Or does she take what she’s been given and save herself?
Take It All was Heartbreaking. Desolate. Honest. Raw. And above all, REAL.
I’ve been a huge fan of Emma Grayson since her debut novel, Unbeautifully Loved. She has this way of writing that cuts to the bone and holds you captive from start to finish.
And what I loved about Take It All was its honesty, its almost journal-like feel. There are phrasing errors and grammatical mistakes which would usually drive me crazy but which in Take It All felt rough and imperfect, like a journal.
Advice: have a box of Kleenex handy. And a punching bag so you can pretend to punch Caleb’s face in.
August 24, 2013
Take It All had me hooked from page 1!! Lenox and Caleb have not seen each other since Caleb’s family moved away when they were kids. Without even knowing it the two of them meet again online in a chat room…both feel like there is something familiar about the other when they exchange pictures but neither can place their finger on what it is. Lennox’s nosy friends set up a date between the two and that’s where their new story begins. Lennox feels as though Caleb is hiding something from her and once she finds out she realizes that nothing in the world can change how she feels…even all the lies.
This is a story of young love through thick and thin. Caleb is an addicted who is hooked on pot and cocaine….but he is not just a user, he is also a dealer. His addiction causes trouble between him and Lox (Lennox) in many ways. Even with everything Caleb puts Lox through she stands by him even when others tell her to end it. This story shows that true love is stronger than anything else in the world. There were many times when I wanted to reach into my kindle and strangle Caleb for what he puts Lennox through. Overall I LOVED this book except for the end….the end made me say “WTH?? I have to wait how long to find out what happens next?!?!?!?!” Not cool Emma! LOL! But still this is a MUST read!!!
5✭✭✭✭✭
This is a story of young love through thick and thin. Caleb is an addicted who is hooked on pot and cocaine….but he is not just a user, he is also a dealer. His addiction causes trouble between him and Lox (Lennox) in many ways. Even with everything Caleb puts Lox through she stands by him even when others tell her to end it. This story shows that true love is stronger than anything else in the world. There were many times when I wanted to reach into my kindle and strangle Caleb for what he puts Lennox through. Overall I LOVED this book except for the end….the end made me say “WTH?? I have to wait how long to find out what happens next?!?!?!?!” Not cool Emma! LOL! But still this is a MUST read!!!
5✭✭✭✭✭
August 22, 2013
The series name is absolutely perfect… Blinded by Love. I LOVED LOVED LOVED this book!! It was a really quick read for me because I kept thinking “she’s had enough right?!” but no, she is there for Caleb non-stop. There are some parts of this book that are a little hard to read as they are some what sensitive due to it being extremely relatable. Anyone who know someone who has faced the struggles that Caleb is facing will also struggle with some parts of this book.
Raine, is Lennox’s best friend, I kept thinking he would be a perfect match for her. He is always right there supporting her and helping her out whenever she calls. He is 100% a true friend.
This book is inspired by true events so I will not give it a number rating, however I will tell you fell in love with the story. Emma is an absolutely amazing author with a great talent for connecting with her readers.
I cannot wait for Promise It All
4.5 stars!
Cam
Raine, is Lennox’s best friend, I kept thinking he would be a perfect match for her. He is always right there supporting her and helping her out whenever she calls. He is 100% a true friend.
This book is inspired by true events so I will not give it a number rating, however I will tell you fell in love with the story. Emma is an absolutely amazing author with a great talent for connecting with her readers.
I cannot wait for Promise It All
4.5 stars!
Cam
August 28, 2013
I received an ARC for an honest review
Welp.Take It All By Emma Grayson was very eye opening.The story follows Lennox and Caleb.They knew each many years ago and are reunited via a blind date.It was what seemed like love at first sight.While things seem to be going great Caleb is hiding something.Something that could Destroy Lennox.
The writing was great and the story was written very well and flowed easily.I will be honest,Caleb is not my favorite person right now and Im not sure if or how he can redeem himself.The ending was killer.Thank Goodness there will be a book 2.Be prepared to expect the unexpected at the end.This was not my first book by Emma and it definitely was just as great as her first book,Unbeautifully Loved.Emma does not hold back when she is writing and that is something to be thankful for.I look forward to reading Promise It All(Take It All #2 ) in the near future.Great Job Emma! Keep up the amazing work!
Welp.Take It All By Emma Grayson was very eye opening.The story follows Lennox and Caleb.They knew each many years ago and are reunited via a blind date.It was what seemed like love at first sight.While things seem to be going great Caleb is hiding something.Something that could Destroy Lennox.
The writing was great and the story was written very well and flowed easily.I will be honest,Caleb is not my favorite person right now and Im not sure if or how he can redeem himself.The ending was killer.Thank Goodness there will be a book 2.Be prepared to expect the unexpected at the end.This was not my first book by Emma and it definitely was just as great as her first book,Unbeautifully Loved.Emma does not hold back when she is writing and that is something to be thankful for.I look forward to reading Promise It All(Take It All #2 ) in the near future.Great Job Emma! Keep up the amazing work!
August 12, 2013
ive got to say i enjoyed this book ,although some parts hits close to home however i at times wondered what in the hell lennox was thinking at times putting herself through that turmoil when it was clear caleb could,nt admit his problem ,as we all know the first part of someone dealing with a addiction they first need to admit they have one .
im hoping in book 2 that now lennox is pregnant she puts herself and her unborn babys needs above all else ,i was at times hoping lennox and raine got it on because he seems to be a special person who would treat lennox how she should be treated ....we will see!!!
im hoping in book 2 that now lennox is pregnant she puts herself and her unborn babys needs above all else ,i was at times hoping lennox and raine got it on because he seems to be a special person who would treat lennox how she should be treated ....we will see!!!
August 18, 2013
Loved...loved...loved this story! Sometimes it felt like you wanted to smack Lennox and tell her to wake up! It seemed there were some points that were contradicting. All the men around her seemed to fall at her feet...which in real life lets face it probably wouldn't happen!
This was a page turner that I couldn't put down! Read it all in a day...stayed up til 4 am lol! Can't wait to find out what happens for Lennox and Caleb
This was a page turner that I couldn't put down! Read it all in a day...stayed up til 4 am lol! Can't wait to find out what happens for Lennox and Caleb
September 21, 2013
Limitless amount of brightly shining gold stars for this... this... Perfection!!!!
Holy amazeballs, it has knocked me for fifty!!
It was amazing. I loved it so much! It's a good tear jerker too, and the playlist at the end? Well fudge me!! That brought tears on too!!
Full review to come, but for now...
DON'T HESITATE!!!! READ THIS BOOK!!! JOIN LENNOX AND CALEB ON THEIR F****D UP JOURNEY!!!!
Be warned though, go in with an open mind! Do NOT judge Caleb! Give him a fair chance.
Holy amazeballs, it has knocked me for fifty!!
It was amazing. I loved it so much! It's a good tear jerker too, and the playlist at the end? Well fudge me!! That brought tears on too!!
Full review to come, but for now...
DON'T HESITATE!!!! READ THIS BOOK!!! JOIN LENNOX AND CALEB ON THEIR F****D UP JOURNEY!!!!
Be warned though, go in with an open mind! Do NOT judge Caleb! Give him a fair chance.
August 29, 2013
Well, let see I didn't like Caleb, he prefer his drugs know he has a problem, but didn't want help..I for one loved Raine, he has such a heart.And its you can't help someone who doesn't want it. Very emotional story. Can't wait for more.I rated a 5 ,because it was truth to the heart..Love your work Emma!!
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August 18, 2013
This book has left me with a heavy heart. I knew as I was reading that it was a struggle for the characters. I hope this series has a happy ending..I'm afraid that it won't but that is the way with real life. Looking forward to the next one.
August 20, 2013
I can't wait to read the next book of this heart renching story, I couldn't put this book down, even though it broke my heart especially knowing it was based on true events, I hope things end happy but have a feeling it may not be the happy I know everyone is hoping for.......
October 4, 2013
What a freaking roller coaster of emotions!! Holy crap... Can I just say that I want to bitch slap Caleb and in the same breath I want him to redeem himself in the second book?! Emerson oh how I love thee.. As well as Raine. Emerson and londyn yes please.... Raine and tater tits..yes!! ;)
Want to read
May 27, 2013Oh my god... that blurb and excerpt... this sounds simply heart-wrenching.... :(
October 24, 2013
This book was REAL! There's nothing that you can say or do or even try to change the words, that's what this book is. I am very anxious to read the next installment of the series.
September 6, 2022
Wow, this book was an emotional rollercoaster for me. I finished it three days ago and I'm feeling the turmoil from it. This is the first book I've read from this author and I was pleasantly surprised.
We first meet Lennox, the quiet girl next door. She always followed the rules, never straying to the "dark side". She kept with her priorities and always made the right choices. However, she always felt alone and lost in the world, ever since her childhood friend and boy she loved, moved away.
Once day, Lennox meets someone in an online chatroom and they "click". She feels there's something similar about this guy, and once they meet, she realizes it's Caleb, her childhood crush. A romance blossoms between the two but it's not easy. There are some dark elements to this story (drug use) but I liked it because it showed a "realness" between the two.
I was kept on my toes while reading this until the ending. The cliffhanger at the end hurts me so bad!! The only thing I didn't like was Caleb's personality at times. He puts Lennox through a lot of BS and I felt like he didn't appreciate her. I actually liked Raine way more than Caleb. :) But overall, it's a good story and I'll be reading the next in the series.
*** ARC provided in exchange for an honest review*****
We first meet Lennox, the quiet girl next door. She always followed the rules, never straying to the "dark side". She kept with her priorities and always made the right choices. However, she always felt alone and lost in the world, ever since her childhood friend and boy she loved, moved away.
Once day, Lennox meets someone in an online chatroom and they "click". She feels there's something similar about this guy, and once they meet, she realizes it's Caleb, her childhood crush. A romance blossoms between the two but it's not easy. There are some dark elements to this story (drug use) but I liked it because it showed a "realness" between the two.
I was kept on my toes while reading this until the ending. The cliffhanger at the end hurts me so bad!! The only thing I didn't like was Caleb's personality at times. He puts Lennox through a lot of BS and I felt like he didn't appreciate her. I actually liked Raine way more than Caleb. :) But overall, it's a good story and I'll be reading the next in the series.
*** ARC provided in exchange for an honest review*****
August 15, 2014
********ARC received in exchange for an honest review********
Holly's 4.5 Star Review
When I saw that this book was inspired by events in Emma's life I was definitely intrigued. Usually if I see a film or read a book based on true events then I'm itching to find out which parts actually happened and which parts were just created for the book. But with Take It All, I really don't want to know. This story made me so sad that I'd probably end up a wreck if I found out just how much of Lennox's story belonged to Emma Grayson and if I'm being honest, then I think the majority of it does.
Lennox and Caleb were best friends when they were children up until Caleb had to move away with his parents and they lost touch. Fast forward 10 years and they are unexpectedly reunited by what can only be described as fate. Throw in an all consuming love and you've got the perfect story, right? Unfortunately, this isn't a fairy tale romance. Yes they loved each other so intensely but sometimes, there are bigger things at play. Things that no amount of love or forgiveness can change. And that is what Lennox and Caleb were faced with. Something that was bigger than them, and determined to take away everything that they had.
This review is so hard to right. You would think it would be easy to just talk about a book you liked. But this book!! It was painful. I felt it. I knew what was going to happen. I knew it wasn't going to be good. I wanted things to be different. But that made me feel bad. This is Emma's story. This is her life. It's so hard to explain my feelings for this book. I feel weird saying at the beginning of this paragraph that I liked the book because I didn't. I hated that all this happened. But it's a book that needs to be read. Emma has done a great job with the writing and bringing the characters and story to life, so don't get me wrong. I'm not knocking the book in any kind of way. I mean, I gave it 4.5 stars for a start. But unless you read it then I don't think you will understand where I'm coming from. Much like how some people won't understand the choices that Lennox made unless they experienced the same things themselves.
I wanted to love Caleb so incredibly bad. I have no doubt that underneath it all he was a great guy. But sometimes things in life happen that can change us. I've seen it with my eyes. People I know and love. It ruins them. Breaks them down until there's nothing left but secrets and lies. I have absolutely no problem with the way Lennox dealt with any of it. I know I would have done the same so I'm not really going to say anything else about her. My saving grace in this book was Raine. Every girl should have a Raine! After meeting at a club one night, he and Lennox became friends and I'm so glad that happened because he was such a help to her. A guiding light through all the darkness that was creeping up on her I suppose. I love him. In a perfect world she would have fell madly in love with Raine and they would have lived lived happily-ever-after.
But as I've said before. This is no fairy tale. And it doesn't end happily-for-now never mind happily-ever-after. The ending brought mixed emotions for me. My initial thought was "oh no" wondering if things could get any worse for this poor girl. But then I thought differently. I don't want to say WHY because I don't want to give it away. I want you to experience it as I did. Just know that I'm anxious, scared and looking forward to the conclusion of this story. I have a feeling that it won't end how people will expect/want it to. Though how often does real life ever do what we want? But I think regardless of will they/won't they, I think Lennox will still get her happily-ever-after but I think it will have more to do with the events in the end of Take It All than Caleb.
I think I'm going to leave my review at that. It's a hard one to talk about especially without giving too much away but I hope you do give it a chance. And if you do I'd love to hear what you think about it. And a big thank you to Emma Grayson for sharing your story with us. I have no doubt it wasn't an easy thing to do but I hope it helped.
Holly's 4.5 Star Review
When I saw that this book was inspired by events in Emma's life I was definitely intrigued. Usually if I see a film or read a book based on true events then I'm itching to find out which parts actually happened and which parts were just created for the book. But with Take It All, I really don't want to know. This story made me so sad that I'd probably end up a wreck if I found out just how much of Lennox's story belonged to Emma Grayson and if I'm being honest, then I think the majority of it does.
Lennox and Caleb were best friends when they were children up until Caleb had to move away with his parents and they lost touch. Fast forward 10 years and they are unexpectedly reunited by what can only be described as fate. Throw in an all consuming love and you've got the perfect story, right? Unfortunately, this isn't a fairy tale romance. Yes they loved each other so intensely but sometimes, there are bigger things at play. Things that no amount of love or forgiveness can change. And that is what Lennox and Caleb were faced with. Something that was bigger than them, and determined to take away everything that they had.
This review is so hard to right. You would think it would be easy to just talk about a book you liked. But this book!! It was painful. I felt it. I knew what was going to happen. I knew it wasn't going to be good. I wanted things to be different. But that made me feel bad. This is Emma's story. This is her life. It's so hard to explain my feelings for this book. I feel weird saying at the beginning of this paragraph that I liked the book because I didn't. I hated that all this happened. But it's a book that needs to be read. Emma has done a great job with the writing and bringing the characters and story to life, so don't get me wrong. I'm not knocking the book in any kind of way. I mean, I gave it 4.5 stars for a start. But unless you read it then I don't think you will understand where I'm coming from. Much like how some people won't understand the choices that Lennox made unless they experienced the same things themselves.
I wanted to love Caleb so incredibly bad. I have no doubt that underneath it all he was a great guy. But sometimes things in life happen that can change us. I've seen it with my eyes. People I know and love. It ruins them. Breaks them down until there's nothing left but secrets and lies. I have absolutely no problem with the way Lennox dealt with any of it. I know I would have done the same so I'm not really going to say anything else about her. My saving grace in this book was Raine. Every girl should have a Raine! After meeting at a club one night, he and Lennox became friends and I'm so glad that happened because he was such a help to her. A guiding light through all the darkness that was creeping up on her I suppose. I love him. In a perfect world she would have fell madly in love with Raine and they would have lived lived happily-ever-after.
But as I've said before. This is no fairy tale. And it doesn't end happily-for-now never mind happily-ever-after. The ending brought mixed emotions for me. My initial thought was "oh no" wondering if things could get any worse for this poor girl. But then I thought differently. I don't want to say WHY because I don't want to give it away. I want you to experience it as I did. Just know that I'm anxious, scared and looking forward to the conclusion of this story. I have a feeling that it won't end how people will expect/want it to. Though how often does real life ever do what we want? But I think regardless of will they/won't they, I think Lennox will still get her happily-ever-after but I think it will have more to do with the events in the end of Take It All than Caleb.
I think I'm going to leave my review at that. It's a hard one to talk about especially without giving too much away but I hope you do give it a chance. And if you do I'd love to hear what you think about it. And a big thank you to Emma Grayson for sharing your story with us. I have no doubt it wasn't an easy thing to do but I hope it helped.
October 5, 2014
Step One of NA (Narcotics Anonymous): The 1st Step on Narcotics Anonymous requires us to admit our powerlessness over our addiction because our lives have become unmanageable.
Step One of FA (Families Anonymous): We admitted we were powerless over drugs and other people’s lives—that our lives had become unmanageable.
I absolutely loved this story for so many reasons. I work, daily, with both addicts/alcoholics and their families, so reading through this was honestly like watching a train wreck about to happen - which is a lot like what I feel like on a daily basis. As I read through it, I couldn't help but feel suspicious of Caleb, based on what I see every day. Once his activities were confirmed, however, I knew that things were not going to end well for Caleb and Lennox, at least not in this book. I could just tell, and it made my heart hurt all the more for Lennox.
Caleb and Lennox have known each other since they were kids, but Caleb's family moved away when they were still pretty young, and the two of them lost touch. It was pretty sad, too, because they seemed to have a great connection, even as kids, and to be each other's best friend. Lennox has never really gotten over Caleb's absence from her life, either. She is the type of girl that holds her emotions in and only lets a few people get to know her, and even then, it almost seems like she never really lets someone in 100%. Not until Caleb, anyways. Well, Caleb and Raine, whom I just loved. Raine is that guy that I wish Lennox could love, but he seems destined to be more of a brother and a voice of reason or calm when she needs it.
Caleb blows by into Lennox's life, and she is never really the same after that. Due to Caleb's direction in life, Lennox just wasn't really prepared for him. Her heart was already set to belong to him, so she didn't think to safeguard herself against him, which then caused her to cave in to everything that she never thought she would cave on. So many of her rules for dating were completely disregarded when it came to Caleb, and, while it is very frustrating to read, especially knowing it was based on real events and emotions, this is so much a part of how the disease of addiction works. The addiction not only sucks the addict in, it also sucks the family members and loved ones in, and this definitely happened to Lennox. She wanted to be the one to save Caleb because she couldn't consider a world where he self-destructed or wasn't in it.
The sad truth, however, is that you can't save someone. That is why I included the first step for Families Anonymous. Drug addicts are powerless over their addiction, but the families of addicts are powerless, not only over the drugs that their loved ones are using, but they are powerless over the addicts themselves. Caleb has to get to a point where he wants to stop for himself. Poor Lennox goes down with him, however, and she even knows that she is going down while she does it. It was so frustrating to watch how isolated she became from those that could help her, too. And then...huge cliffhanger ending. I can't wait to read the second book to see what happens and how, or if, Lennox comes back from this. This book really does a great job of showing the actual disease of addiction, and yes, it is a disease of the brain and of the behaviors. It is not pretty, and I really wish that Lennox had gotten to counseling and learned about things like setting boundaries and taking care of herself, but, everyone's journey is different.
Step One of FA (Families Anonymous): We admitted we were powerless over drugs and other people’s lives—that our lives had become unmanageable.
I absolutely loved this story for so many reasons. I work, daily, with both addicts/alcoholics and their families, so reading through this was honestly like watching a train wreck about to happen - which is a lot like what I feel like on a daily basis. As I read through it, I couldn't help but feel suspicious of Caleb, based on what I see every day. Once his activities were confirmed, however, I knew that things were not going to end well for Caleb and Lennox, at least not in this book. I could just tell, and it made my heart hurt all the more for Lennox.
Caleb and Lennox have known each other since they were kids, but Caleb's family moved away when they were still pretty young, and the two of them lost touch. It was pretty sad, too, because they seemed to have a great connection, even as kids, and to be each other's best friend. Lennox has never really gotten over Caleb's absence from her life, either. She is the type of girl that holds her emotions in and only lets a few people get to know her, and even then, it almost seems like she never really lets someone in 100%. Not until Caleb, anyways. Well, Caleb and Raine, whom I just loved. Raine is that guy that I wish Lennox could love, but he seems destined to be more of a brother and a voice of reason or calm when she needs it.
Caleb blows by into Lennox's life, and she is never really the same after that. Due to Caleb's direction in life, Lennox just wasn't really prepared for him. Her heart was already set to belong to him, so she didn't think to safeguard herself against him, which then caused her to cave in to everything that she never thought she would cave on. So many of her rules for dating were completely disregarded when it came to Caleb, and, while it is very frustrating to read, especially knowing it was based on real events and emotions, this is so much a part of how the disease of addiction works. The addiction not only sucks the addict in, it also sucks the family members and loved ones in, and this definitely happened to Lennox. She wanted to be the one to save Caleb because she couldn't consider a world where he self-destructed or wasn't in it.
The sad truth, however, is that you can't save someone. That is why I included the first step for Families Anonymous. Drug addicts are powerless over their addiction, but the families of addicts are powerless, not only over the drugs that their loved ones are using, but they are powerless over the addicts themselves. Caleb has to get to a point where he wants to stop for himself. Poor Lennox goes down with him, however, and she even knows that she is going down while she does it. It was so frustrating to watch how isolated she became from those that could help her, too. And then...huge cliffhanger ending. I can't wait to read the second book to see what happens and how, or if, Lennox comes back from this. This book really does a great job of showing the actual disease of addiction, and yes, it is a disease of the brain and of the behaviors. It is not pretty, and I really wish that Lennox had gotten to counseling and learned about things like setting boundaries and taking care of herself, but, everyone's journey is different.
October 28, 2014
5 Stars!
Step One of NA (Narcotics Anonymous): The 1st Step on Narcotics Anonymous requires us to admit our powerlessness over our addiction because our lives have become unmanageable.
Step One of FA (Families Anonymous): We admitted we were powerless over drugs and other people’s lives—that our lives had become unmanageable.
I absolutely loved this story for so many reasons. I work, daily, with both addicts/alcoholics and their families, so reading through this was honestly like watching a train wreck about to happen - which is a lot like what I feel like on a daily basis. As I read through it, I couldn't help but feel suspicious of Caleb, based on what I see every day. Once his activities were confirmed, however, I knew that things were not going to end well for Caleb and Lennox, at least not in this book. I could just tell, and it made my heart hurt all the more for Lennox.
Caleb and Lennox have known each other since they were kids, but Caleb's family moved away when they were still pretty young, and the two of them lost touch. It was pretty sad, too, because they seemed to have a great connection, even as kids, and to be each other's best friend. Lennox has never really gotten over Caleb's absence from her life, either. She is the type of girl that holds her emotions in and only lets a few people get to know her, and even then, it almost seems like she never really lets someone in 100%. Not until Caleb, anyways. Well, Caleb and Raine, whom I just loved. Raine is that guy that I wish Lennox could love, but he seems destined to be more of a brother and a voice of reason or calm when she needs it.
Caleb blows by into Lennox's life, and she is never really the same after that. Due to Caleb's direction in life, Lennox just wasn't really prepared for him. Her heart was already set to belong to him, so she didn't think to safeguard herself against him, which then caused her to cave in to everything that she never thought she would cave on. So many of her rules for dating were completely disregarded when it came to Caleb, and, while it is very frustrating to read, especially knowing it was based on real events and emotions, this is so much a part of how the disease of addiction works. The addiction not only sucks the addict in, it also sucks the family members and loved ones in, and this definitely happened to Lennox. She wanted to be the one to save Caleb because she couldn't consider a world where he self-destructed or wasn't in it.
The sad truth, however, is that you can't save someone. That is why I included the first step for Families Anonymous. Drug addicts are powerless over their addiction, but the families of addicts are powerless, not only over the drugs that their loved ones are using, but they are powerless over the addicts themselves. Caleb has to get to a point where he wants to stop for himself. Poor Lennox goes down with him, however, and she even knows that she is going down while she does it. It was so frustrating to watch how isolated she became from those that could help her, too. And then...huge cliffhanger ending. I can't wait to read the second book to see what happens and how, or if, Lennox comes back from this. This book really does a great job of showing the actual disease of addiction, and yes, it is a disease of the brain and of the behaviors. It is not pretty, and I really wish that Lennox had gotten to counseling and learned about things like setting boundaries and taking care of herself, but, everyone's journey is different.
Step One of NA (Narcotics Anonymous): The 1st Step on Narcotics Anonymous requires us to admit our powerlessness over our addiction because our lives have become unmanageable.
Step One of FA (Families Anonymous): We admitted we were powerless over drugs and other people’s lives—that our lives had become unmanageable.
I absolutely loved this story for so many reasons. I work, daily, with both addicts/alcoholics and their families, so reading through this was honestly like watching a train wreck about to happen - which is a lot like what I feel like on a daily basis. As I read through it, I couldn't help but feel suspicious of Caleb, based on what I see every day. Once his activities were confirmed, however, I knew that things were not going to end well for Caleb and Lennox, at least not in this book. I could just tell, and it made my heart hurt all the more for Lennox.
Caleb and Lennox have known each other since they were kids, but Caleb's family moved away when they were still pretty young, and the two of them lost touch. It was pretty sad, too, because they seemed to have a great connection, even as kids, and to be each other's best friend. Lennox has never really gotten over Caleb's absence from her life, either. She is the type of girl that holds her emotions in and only lets a few people get to know her, and even then, it almost seems like she never really lets someone in 100%. Not until Caleb, anyways. Well, Caleb and Raine, whom I just loved. Raine is that guy that I wish Lennox could love, but he seems destined to be more of a brother and a voice of reason or calm when she needs it.
Caleb blows by into Lennox's life, and she is never really the same after that. Due to Caleb's direction in life, Lennox just wasn't really prepared for him. Her heart was already set to belong to him, so she didn't think to safeguard herself against him, which then caused her to cave in to everything that she never thought she would cave on. So many of her rules for dating were completely disregarded when it came to Caleb, and, while it is very frustrating to read, especially knowing it was based on real events and emotions, this is so much a part of how the disease of addiction works. The addiction not only sucks the addict in, it also sucks the family members and loved ones in, and this definitely happened to Lennox. She wanted to be the one to save Caleb because she couldn't consider a world where he self-destructed or wasn't in it.
The sad truth, however, is that you can't save someone. That is why I included the first step for Families Anonymous. Drug addicts are powerless over their addiction, but the families of addicts are powerless, not only over the drugs that their loved ones are using, but they are powerless over the addicts themselves. Caleb has to get to a point where he wants to stop for himself. Poor Lennox goes down with him, however, and she even knows that she is going down while she does it. It was so frustrating to watch how isolated she became from those that could help her, too. And then...huge cliffhanger ending. I can't wait to read the second book to see what happens and how, or if, Lennox comes back from this. This book really does a great job of showing the actual disease of addiction, and yes, it is a disease of the brain and of the behaviors. It is not pretty, and I really wish that Lennox had gotten to counseling and learned about things like setting boundaries and taking care of herself, but, everyone's journey is different.
September 22, 2013
Caution you will need a box of tissues & I advise against passing by any mirrors while reading this book. Yes, ugly crying will accrue.
Wow! This has knocked me speechless & anyone who knows me knows that just doesn't happen often. I really want to do this review justice that it so fairly deserves. This book touched my heart & brought me back to a time I try not to revisit often. One of love, loss & pain. One that unless you've walked in those shoes you just won't fully understand or grasp. I applaud you for having the courage & strength to write this story. = )
They say it's what you make
I say it's up to fate
It's woven in my soul
I need to let you go
Your eyes, they shine so bright
I want to save their light
I can't escape this now
Unless you show me how
~ Imagine Dragons
****This story was inspired by true events*****
Always feeling incomplete throughout her life. Lennox Ward's heart was searching for the missing puzzle piece that fit right into her heart. Little did she know it came at a price. Caleb Kingston came strolling in unexpectedly filling & crushing her world forever. Is love ever enough? Will she be enough to lead him away from his destructive path & their happily ever after?
" Remember , you and I against the world- always." Caleb
Love didn't happen in time.
Love happened in a moment, in
a heartbeat, in a breath of a kiss.
It happened at first sight, without words
being exchanged, with a simple glance
across a room, with a simple touch: love
didn't happen over time, it grew
over time.
This is book is deep, real, raw & beautiful. Not your typical love story but a story of the heart. You can't chose who you fall in love with for it chooses you. For me this was an emotional roller coaster one I understand all to well. Lennox always seemed to over look important items when it came to Caleb. She wouldn't have other wise and loved with a love so pure & true it's unreal. Caleb was her knight in shining armor that underneath it all was nothing more than an illusion. The thing with love it makes you pick & choose what you want to see. Love truly blinds you. Regardless of everything Caleb did in this story. I loved him, I felt for him & wanted to help him. Oh, Raine where do I even start. You are amazing! Every girl should have a Raine. I loved the conversations between you & Lennox. I felt like I was right there witnessing it first hand. If only love were simple & Lennox could have fallen for you. It's funny I felt torn at times as the story went on. I just loved both men and fell hard for Raine. What can I say about her girlfriends. They were quite a pair one I can actually say I had friends so similar to. Tatum you little slut. You were so tough & corky I just loved you. Londyn you had me at Tater Tits!! LOL Emma what can I say you did it again!! I loved Unbeautifully Loved & now this really. Your writing is amazing & beautiful! You are seriously my Author soulmate. I will forever read anything you write & Pimp you endlessly. Anyone reading this review you can't go wrong with any of Emma Grayson's books. They are simply beautiful!!!! Now please go out & pick this book up!! You just can't go wrong.
******Review copy given for an honest review*******
Guest reviewer for Book Geeks Unite
www.Bookgeeksunite.com www.facebook.com/Bookgeeksunite
Wow! This has knocked me speechless & anyone who knows me knows that just doesn't happen often. I really want to do this review justice that it so fairly deserves. This book touched my heart & brought me back to a time I try not to revisit often. One of love, loss & pain. One that unless you've walked in those shoes you just won't fully understand or grasp. I applaud you for having the courage & strength to write this story. = )
They say it's what you make
I say it's up to fate
It's woven in my soul
I need to let you go
Your eyes, they shine so bright
I want to save their light
I can't escape this now
Unless you show me how
~ Imagine Dragons
****This story was inspired by true events*****
Always feeling incomplete throughout her life. Lennox Ward's heart was searching for the missing puzzle piece that fit right into her heart. Little did she know it came at a price. Caleb Kingston came strolling in unexpectedly filling & crushing her world forever. Is love ever enough? Will she be enough to lead him away from his destructive path & their happily ever after?
" Remember , you and I against the world- always." Caleb
Love didn't happen in time.
Love happened in a moment, in
a heartbeat, in a breath of a kiss.
It happened at first sight, without words
being exchanged, with a simple glance
across a room, with a simple touch: love
didn't happen over time, it grew
over time.
This is book is deep, real, raw & beautiful. Not your typical love story but a story of the heart. You can't chose who you fall in love with for it chooses you. For me this was an emotional roller coaster one I understand all to well. Lennox always seemed to over look important items when it came to Caleb. She wouldn't have other wise and loved with a love so pure & true it's unreal. Caleb was her knight in shining armor that underneath it all was nothing more than an illusion. The thing with love it makes you pick & choose what you want to see. Love truly blinds you. Regardless of everything Caleb did in this story. I loved him, I felt for him & wanted to help him. Oh, Raine where do I even start. You are amazing! Every girl should have a Raine. I loved the conversations between you & Lennox. I felt like I was right there witnessing it first hand. If only love were simple & Lennox could have fallen for you. It's funny I felt torn at times as the story went on. I just loved both men and fell hard for Raine. What can I say about her girlfriends. They were quite a pair one I can actually say I had friends so similar to. Tatum you little slut. You were so tough & corky I just loved you. Londyn you had me at Tater Tits!! LOL Emma what can I say you did it again!! I loved Unbeautifully Loved & now this really. Your writing is amazing & beautiful! You are seriously my Author soulmate. I will forever read anything you write & Pimp you endlessly. Anyone reading this review you can't go wrong with any of Emma Grayson's books. They are simply beautiful!!!! Now please go out & pick this book up!! You just can't go wrong.
******Review copy given for an honest review*******
Guest reviewer for Book Geeks Unite
www.Bookgeeksunite.com www.facebook.com/Bookgeeksunite
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