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Familiar Light
Seven years of longing comes down to just one night.
Laney Kent returns to Barrier Shoals hoping to reunite with her first love, Bridger. She anticipates his reception might be chilly, but what she doesn't expect is to become the victim of a deadly obsession … or that this night with Bridger could be her last.
Bridger Jansen tangled a lot of sheets trying to forget about Laney, but his heart knew what the rest of him refused to admit: he could love no one else. He's determined not to forgive her for leaving him without explanation, but when he fails to protect her from a viscous attack, the person he can't forgive just might be himself.
Laney Kent returns to Barrier Shoals hoping to reunite with her first love, Bridger. She anticipates his reception might be chilly, but what she doesn't expect is to become the victim of a deadly obsession … or that this night with Bridger could be her last.
Bridger Jansen tangled a lot of sheets trying to forget about Laney, but his heart knew what the rest of him refused to admit: he could love no one else. He's determined not to forgive her for leaving him without explanation, but when he fails to protect her from a viscous attack, the person he can't forgive just might be himself.
35 pages, Kindle Edition
First published October 17, 2011
About the author
Sarah Ballance
28 books691 followersSarah and her husband of what he calls “many long, long years” live on the mid-Atlantic coast with their six young children, all of whom are perfectly adorable when they’re asleep. She never dreamed of becoming an author, but as a homeschooling mom, she often jokes she writes fiction because if she wants anyone to listen to her, she has to make them up. (As it turns out, her characters aren’t much better than the kids). When not buried under piles of laundry, she may be found adrift in the Atlantic (preferably on a boat) or seeking that ever-elusive perfect writing spot where not even the kids can find her.
She loves creating unforgettable stories while putting her characters through an unkind amount of torture—a hobby that has nothing to do with living with six children. (Really.) Though she adores nail-biting mystery and edge-of-your-seat thrillers, Sarah writes in many genres including contemporary and ghostly paranormal romance. Her ever-growing roster of releases may be found on her website.
She loves creating unforgettable stories while putting her characters through an unkind amount of torture—a hobby that has nothing to do with living with six children. (Really.) Though she adores nail-biting mystery and edge-of-your-seat thrillers, Sarah writes in many genres including contemporary and ghostly paranormal romance. Her ever-growing roster of releases may be found on her website.
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Displaying 1 - 15 of 15 reviews
March 20, 2012
Awesome read!
FAMILIAR LIGHT by SARAH BALLANCE is a beautifully written, fantastic short story! I am so impressed that Ms. Ballance could put together such a wonderfully suspenseful, sensuous read in a short story. What a talent she has. It left me breathing heavy after a particular scene at the beach and wanting for nothing, except in the Epilogue when it gives you a taste of the upcoming sequel called Tide of Lies. I CAN'T WAIT FOR IT! I WANT IT NOW! I can assure you that I will be reading much more of Ms. Ballance's work. I highly recommend this read.
FAMILIAR LIGHT by SARAH BALLANCE is a beautifully written, fantastic short story! I am so impressed that Ms. Ballance could put together such a wonderfully suspenseful, sensuous read in a short story. What a talent she has. It left me breathing heavy after a particular scene at the beach and wanting for nothing, except in the Epilogue when it gives you a taste of the upcoming sequel called Tide of Lies. I CAN'T WAIT FOR IT! I WANT IT NOW! I can assure you that I will be reading much more of Ms. Ballance's work. I highly recommend this read.
November 10, 2011
Familiar Light by Sarah Ballance is classed as a sensual romance, but also has a healthy dollop of suspense thrown in for good measure. Part of the Timeless Desire range of books from Noble Romance, Ballance gives us a very tense, sensual read.
Familiar Light tells the story of Laney Kent, a girl who left her hometown of Barrier Shoals to go to college. She promised her first love, Bridger Jansen, that she would return - and she does, but by the time she does, it's seven years later. Understandably, Bridger is not impressed and gives her a chilly reception, despite being secretly thrilled to see her - he's never loved anyone else.
Determined to make amends, Laney sticks around. However, when she's the victim of an attack, it seems that someone is really not happy with Laney's return to Barrier Shoals. But who? And why?
This is the first title from Sarah Ballance that I've read, but it definitely won't be the last. Ballance does a brilliant job with the longing, emotion and tension in this book and I found it a real page turner. She is also mistress of the cliffhanger - meaning I hope there's a sequel in the works!
Overall, if you enjoy sensual, action-packed reads, then you should definitely get your hands on a copy of Familiar Light.
Familiar Light tells the story of Laney Kent, a girl who left her hometown of Barrier Shoals to go to college. She promised her first love, Bridger Jansen, that she would return - and she does, but by the time she does, it's seven years later. Understandably, Bridger is not impressed and gives her a chilly reception, despite being secretly thrilled to see her - he's never loved anyone else.
Determined to make amends, Laney sticks around. However, when she's the victim of an attack, it seems that someone is really not happy with Laney's return to Barrier Shoals. But who? And why?
This is the first title from Sarah Ballance that I've read, but it definitely won't be the last. Ballance does a brilliant job with the longing, emotion and tension in this book and I found it a real page turner. She is also mistress of the cliffhanger - meaning I hope there's a sequel in the works!
Overall, if you enjoy sensual, action-packed reads, then you should definitely get your hands on a copy of Familiar Light.
April 3, 2012
Full of keep you on the edge of your seat action. I loved this book. Especially if you only have a little while to read. There are steamy scenes and nonstop suspense. Sarah's a new author for me and I can't wait to read more. I am waiting patiently (not so much) for Amazon to have Tide of Lies. Thanks for the awesome read Sarah!
January 25, 2012
Originally posted at: http://www.longandshortreviews.blogsp...
Have you ever fantasized about your first love and wondered what would happen if you hooked up again? So does Laney. And she intends to find out.
I read this author for the first time not too long ago and immediately fell in love. I love her style, her writing and her voice. She has this amazing talent for drawing you in and making you fall in love with her characters in a very short space. Her talent also extends to telling a full story in a very short format that doesn't leave you feeling like something was missing. That's not easy to do in short novellas that usually equal less than fifty pages. Ms. Ballance's writing is the kind that leaves me thinking about the characters, and the story, long after I have finished it. She has gone on my “must read” list and I'm keeping my fingers crossed that she will write a full length novel at some point, because it would be one to remember, without a doubt.
I loved all of the characters in this story. Even Holden, the secondary character, came through loud and clear with his own sexy style. Bridger, the lead male, is a sexy “man's man” who seems more like a cowboy transplanted to the beach rather than the beach bum that I expected given the locale. Laney is a strong, yet vulnerable, girl next door. The type that I would have been friends with in high school and kept in touch with long afterwards. The setting is great as well. With the beach as a backdrop, which (in my mind) projects the sense of relaxation and calm, you quickly realize how sinister it can be and the author portrays both very well. Also, what has the potential to be spookier than an old lighthouse?
The idea that Laney would return after seven years and that her relationship with Bridger would immediately pick back up where it left off seems somewhat unrealistic, but Ms. Ballance manages to convince me it's possible with finesse. Given their connection and the circumstances, it's not necessarily an unreasonable consequence of the situation. The fact that Bridger seems to be at odds with himself over what he wants and what he believes should happen make it believable. The story line of the serial killer is suspenseful and creepy and the perfect catalyst for the two of them coming together.
Without giving anything away, it looks like this has been set up to be a series, so we will get to revisit Bridger, Laney and Holden at some point in the future. Personally, I can't wait and I will be watching for the next book. If you are looking for a new author, or a just enjoy a short, quick, enjoyable read then definitely check out 'Familiar Light'. You don't know what you are missing if you pass this book, or this author, up.
Have you ever fantasized about your first love and wondered what would happen if you hooked up again? So does Laney. And she intends to find out.
I read this author for the first time not too long ago and immediately fell in love. I love her style, her writing and her voice. She has this amazing talent for drawing you in and making you fall in love with her characters in a very short space. Her talent also extends to telling a full story in a very short format that doesn't leave you feeling like something was missing. That's not easy to do in short novellas that usually equal less than fifty pages. Ms. Ballance's writing is the kind that leaves me thinking about the characters, and the story, long after I have finished it. She has gone on my “must read” list and I'm keeping my fingers crossed that she will write a full length novel at some point, because it would be one to remember, without a doubt.
I loved all of the characters in this story. Even Holden, the secondary character, came through loud and clear with his own sexy style. Bridger, the lead male, is a sexy “man's man” who seems more like a cowboy transplanted to the beach rather than the beach bum that I expected given the locale. Laney is a strong, yet vulnerable, girl next door. The type that I would have been friends with in high school and kept in touch with long afterwards. The setting is great as well. With the beach as a backdrop, which (in my mind) projects the sense of relaxation and calm, you quickly realize how sinister it can be and the author portrays both very well. Also, what has the potential to be spookier than an old lighthouse?
The idea that Laney would return after seven years and that her relationship with Bridger would immediately pick back up where it left off seems somewhat unrealistic, but Ms. Ballance manages to convince me it's possible with finesse. Given their connection and the circumstances, it's not necessarily an unreasonable consequence of the situation. The fact that Bridger seems to be at odds with himself over what he wants and what he believes should happen make it believable. The story line of the serial killer is suspenseful and creepy and the perfect catalyst for the two of them coming together.
Without giving anything away, it looks like this has been set up to be a series, so we will get to revisit Bridger, Laney and Holden at some point in the future. Personally, I can't wait and I will be watching for the next book. If you are looking for a new author, or a just enjoy a short, quick, enjoyable read then definitely check out 'Familiar Light'. You don't know what you are missing if you pass this book, or this author, up.
May 6, 2012
Wow! One word. Wow.
Never has a book or books in this case left me so utterly speechless, than "Familiar Light" and its follow-up "Tide of Lies" by Sarah Balance. Both absolutely blew me away. Sarah is truly a master of suspenseful writing. I was hooked from the very first page of "Familiar Light" to the very last page of its sequel "Tide of Lies." I found myself white-knuckle gripping my kindle throughout both books. Sarah had me guessing right up to the end of "Familiar Light" and then just when I thought I had the mystery all wrapped up, she threw me a curve which made me jump straight into the next book.
I don't want to give too much away, but in "Familiar Light," Laney Kent comes back to Atlantic resort town Barrier Shoals with the hopes of rekindling a relationship with handsome Bridger Jansen and while doing so falls victim to an obsessed killer. Bridger is forced to reevaluate his feelings for Laney all the while trying to protect her.
The story continues in the follow-up "Tide of Lies," where we find Bridger's long-time friend and detective Holden Whitlow conflicted by the unexpected arrival and attack of former lover Julia Cohen. While trying to solve her crime, Bridger finds himself caught up in a mystery and a secret he knows nothing of.
Sarah's characters are wonderfully developed, flawed, yet perfect. They are so intriguing to meet, whether it be the hunky heroes, Bridger and Holden, or their beautiful ladies, Laney and Jules. I was so completely drawn into the sleepy resort town of Barrier Shoals, by how realistically she described the town and the intrigue happening within. I felt as if I was right there.
The sexual tension and suspense that Sarah weaves is flawless. She has the incredible ability to keep me glued to the page, or screen, in my case, wanting and waiting to see what happens next and constantly second guessing "who dunnit". I didn't even realize my breath was caught in my throat until I was done reading and finally exhaled.
Sarah is a great storyteller, and you won't be disappointed in either "Familiar Light" or "Tides of Lies," although, you may never look at French fires with ketchup in the same way ever again. I highly recommend both reads.
~Angela Aaron,
Author, The Fire of Beltane and Pleasure Island
Never has a book or books in this case left me so utterly speechless, than "Familiar Light" and its follow-up "Tide of Lies" by Sarah Balance. Both absolutely blew me away. Sarah is truly a master of suspenseful writing. I was hooked from the very first page of "Familiar Light" to the very last page of its sequel "Tide of Lies." I found myself white-knuckle gripping my kindle throughout both books. Sarah had me guessing right up to the end of "Familiar Light" and then just when I thought I had the mystery all wrapped up, she threw me a curve which made me jump straight into the next book.
I don't want to give too much away, but in "Familiar Light," Laney Kent comes back to Atlantic resort town Barrier Shoals with the hopes of rekindling a relationship with handsome Bridger Jansen and while doing so falls victim to an obsessed killer. Bridger is forced to reevaluate his feelings for Laney all the while trying to protect her.
The story continues in the follow-up "Tide of Lies," where we find Bridger's long-time friend and detective Holden Whitlow conflicted by the unexpected arrival and attack of former lover Julia Cohen. While trying to solve her crime, Bridger finds himself caught up in a mystery and a secret he knows nothing of.
Sarah's characters are wonderfully developed, flawed, yet perfect. They are so intriguing to meet, whether it be the hunky heroes, Bridger and Holden, or their beautiful ladies, Laney and Jules. I was so completely drawn into the sleepy resort town of Barrier Shoals, by how realistically she described the town and the intrigue happening within. I felt as if I was right there.
The sexual tension and suspense that Sarah weaves is flawless. She has the incredible ability to keep me glued to the page, or screen, in my case, wanting and waiting to see what happens next and constantly second guessing "who dunnit". I didn't even realize my breath was caught in my throat until I was done reading and finally exhaled.
Sarah is a great storyteller, and you won't be disappointed in either "Familiar Light" or "Tides of Lies," although, you may never look at French fires with ketchup in the same way ever again. I highly recommend both reads.
~Angela Aaron,
Author, The Fire of Beltane and Pleasure Island
March 17, 2012
Laney Kent has spent the past seven years remembering her first love. His touch, his kiss, his very memory haunts her to the very depths of her soul. Bridger Jansen was everything she ever wanted, yet circumstances forced her to leave him, and everything between them, behind. She now has a chance to rectify the situation in hopes of fixing what went wrong when she returns to Barrier Shoals.
Nursing a broken heart, Bridger never expected to see Laney ever again. Yet there she is in all of her resplendent beauty. The sight of her takes his breath away and he soon realizes he never stopped loving her. Yet the sting of her betrayal still smarts and he's unsure as to whether they'll be able to pick up where they left off. When it becomes apparent that someone is stalking Laney, Bridger is determined to protect her at all costs.
When a potential serial killer throws her into Bridger's very arms, Laney finds herself unable to resist the attraction running rampant between them. With Bridger's help, she does her best to deduce the identity of the person behind the vicious attacks. All the while, she continues to fight the hunger growing deep inside of herself.
Giving in to the passion flaring between them, the couple is determined to make things work somehow. The threat looming before them does nothing to dampen this fact. Racing against time, they band together in hopes of stopping the sordid attacks before the culprit has a chance to end Laney's own life.
I totally enjoyed this story. Granted, it's not very long, but Sarah is able to inject intrigue and suspense throughout every page of her story. We're able to feel the couple's pain, their love, and their losses as we seek to discover what happens next. I look forward to the next installment of the series.
Nursing a broken heart, Bridger never expected to see Laney ever again. Yet there she is in all of her resplendent beauty. The sight of her takes his breath away and he soon realizes he never stopped loving her. Yet the sting of her betrayal still smarts and he's unsure as to whether they'll be able to pick up where they left off. When it becomes apparent that someone is stalking Laney, Bridger is determined to protect her at all costs.
When a potential serial killer throws her into Bridger's very arms, Laney finds herself unable to resist the attraction running rampant between them. With Bridger's help, she does her best to deduce the identity of the person behind the vicious attacks. All the while, she continues to fight the hunger growing deep inside of herself.
Giving in to the passion flaring between them, the couple is determined to make things work somehow. The threat looming before them does nothing to dampen this fact. Racing against time, they band together in hopes of stopping the sordid attacks before the culprit has a chance to end Laney's own life.
I totally enjoyed this story. Granted, it's not very long, but Sarah is able to inject intrigue and suspense throughout every page of her story. We're able to feel the couple's pain, their love, and their losses as we seek to discover what happens next. I look forward to the next installment of the series.
March 20, 2012
Familiar light is a short sensual read that will captivate you and pull you into the pages, at only 35 pages long, Im amazed at how much detail Sarah has captured within such few pages.
After turning the first page, you wont realize your at the end till you have turned the last page - but only left to be wanting more .
Its filled with love, passion, romance, and suspense in equal amounts giving us a storyline that will pique your attention right till the very end.
I wont go into the storyline much read the blurb for yourself. But I must say I am eager to read the next book to see where this suspense takes us.
As always Sarah delivers a well written storyline, with wonderfully captured characters and descriptions and emotions that are all put forth well.
** Sarah has great cover love - This cover is just stunning **
Ive read all Sarah's books and will never bat an eyelid or hesitate to read more of her future works ;)
After turning the first page, you wont realize your at the end till you have turned the last page - but only left to be wanting more .
Its filled with love, passion, romance, and suspense in equal amounts giving us a storyline that will pique your attention right till the very end.
I wont go into the storyline much read the blurb for yourself. But I must say I am eager to read the next book to see where this suspense takes us.
As always Sarah delivers a well written storyline, with wonderfully captured characters and descriptions and emotions that are all put forth well.
** Sarah has great cover love - This cover is just stunning **
Ive read all Sarah's books and will never bat an eyelid or hesitate to read more of her future works ;)
January 2, 2012
Familiar Light is a short story by Sarah Ballance of 35 pages. It was well-written, easy to read and with cute characters.
The story starts with the main female character Laney going back home. She promised to her love, Bridger, to be back together with him next summer after she went to college, but it has been several years. She never came back until now and she is scared of how he will react.
Bridger has tried to find love after Laney left, but has not found the match. He is very surprised to see his long lost love to return. Surprised, angry and happy.
There is more to Familiar Light than just a romance and two people meeting each other again. There is a suspense story mixed into the romance and the story has very good ending.
Familiar Light was enjoyable read!
4 stars
The story starts with the main female character Laney going back home. She promised to her love, Bridger, to be back together with him next summer after she went to college, but it has been several years. She never came back until now and she is scared of how he will react.
Bridger has tried to find love after Laney left, but has not found the match. He is very surprised to see his long lost love to return. Surprised, angry and happy.
There is more to Familiar Light than just a romance and two people meeting each other again. There is a suspense story mixed into the romance and the story has very good ending.
Familiar Light was enjoyable read!
4 stars
March 25, 2012
I had already read some of Sarah Ballance's work, so I knew I liked her writing style. She uses beautiful imagery but doesn't go into a lengthy, flowery prose you would want to skip. The main characters, Bridger and Laney, were once in love. That was seven years ago and they were young. Now, Laney is coming home and things are hot from the get-go! Ballance does a terrific job of making me believe in their chemistry and then throws in a mystery and suspense story. I won't spoil the ending, but it's a real thing of beauty.
October 20, 2011
After reading this book, I want to take a trip to a lighthouse, mainly to try and picture the feel that she paints with her characters and her setting in this novel. Filled with an old love, a stalker, danger and mystery, it leaves you sitting there wanting to eat every last tasty morsel until the story is complete. It makes waiting for the next story to come out with these character almost unbearable.
July 2, 2012
I fell for Sarah's writing through www.sixsunday.com and I am so very glad I went from blog reader to book reader. This little book had so much to love. A beautiful rekindled love story, heat, mystery, suspense. I just could not put it down. The pacing was brilliant. I dived immediately into Sarah's next book Tide of Lies. Familiar Light is a must read.
June 20, 2012
This was a great quick read setting up Ms. Ballance's Tide of Lies (you get to meet Holden and learn the threat in the next story). Fun, action-packed read. The writing wasn't as tight as I expected (which is why I didn't give it 5 stars), but the character development and the action carried the story over any hitches in storytelling. A great set-up for her longer length work. Nicely done.
December 17, 2011
Sarah outdid herself again. This story contains love, loss, fear, and happiness all in one short little read that will leave you drooling for more. This is a must read for those who enjoy romantic suspense.
March 22, 2012
I liked this short story. It was a good romance and threw in a little mystery. If you are looking for a quick, good read I recommend getting this one. I can't wait to see where the story goes in the next one.
November 3, 2011
Review to come.
Displaying 1 - 15 of 15 reviews