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Is This Love? #1
Carry My Heart
Jacob Phillips was my first best friend.
I was his first love.
We shared our first kiss together.
He broke my heart.
Sage Weston and Jacob Phillips met as children at Little Kitty Orphanage. They had the type of friendship that could weather any storm and they vowed that they would always be there for each other. And then Jacob was adopted, and everything changed. At first the letters were fast and furious but then they stopped and Sage was left all alone.
Four years later, Sage and Jacob bump into each other at a university party. Sparks fly, daggers are drawn and Sage wants nothing to do with Jacob or the bevvy of women that seem to follow him everywhere he goes. Then Sage loses a bet, and she can no longer avoid Jacob. Though she does everything she can to let him know that they are no longer friends.
But Jacob has plans, and is determined for Sage to know the truth about what happened four years ago, even if it costs him everything.
I was his first love.
We shared our first kiss together.
He broke my heart.
Sage Weston and Jacob Phillips met as children at Little Kitty Orphanage. They had the type of friendship that could weather any storm and they vowed that they would always be there for each other. And then Jacob was adopted, and everything changed. At first the letters were fast and furious but then they stopped and Sage was left all alone.
Four years later, Sage and Jacob bump into each other at a university party. Sparks fly, daggers are drawn and Sage wants nothing to do with Jacob or the bevvy of women that seem to follow him everywhere he goes. Then Sage loses a bet, and she can no longer avoid Jacob. Though she does everything she can to let him know that they are no longer friends.
But Jacob has plans, and is determined for Sage to know the truth about what happened four years ago, even if it costs him everything.
First published October 26, 2018
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October 25, 2018
Sage Weston and Jacob Phillips both lived at the Little Kitty Orphanage. They bonded and vowed to always be there for one another, till Jacob was adopted and dropped Sage like a stone.
Now coincidentally they’re both at the same college. Jacob wants to reconnect with Sage but she doesn’t want to, she wants to know why he never replied to any of her letters.
I thought this might be a good read as I love a bit of angst in my romances, unfortunately this tale was little short of ridiculous IMO. When you discover the reason he never replied to her letters or tried to contact her after he was adopted it was just too far fetched and totally unbelievable. Oh and The Little Kitty Orphange sounds more like a rescue home for cats lol.
Now coincidentally they’re both at the same college. Jacob wants to reconnect with Sage but she doesn’t want to, she wants to know why he never replied to any of her letters.
I thought this might be a good read as I love a bit of angst in my romances, unfortunately this tale was little short of ridiculous IMO. When you discover the reason he never replied to her letters or tried to contact her after he was adopted it was just too far fetched and totally unbelievable. Oh and The Little Kitty Orphange sounds more like a rescue home for cats lol.
October 27, 2018
Back in summer, I had the chance to beta read some of the first chapters of this book and I got invested in these characters and their happy ending. Unfortunately, I did not like the story. The book had every cliche one can find. Even Jacob admits that. When I read that he slept with other women but none of the measured up to her, I knew I wouldn't be happy with the book. He was in love with her and yet he chose to sleep with plenty of other women while the heroine remained a virgin. This trope needs to stop. And we had one of his hookups appear. One that he was sleeping with for 2 months. I was so disappointed. I was also disappointed with the heroine because I found her to be too forgiving and she easily accepted everything Jacob was giving her. She got some points for having the guts to demand answers.
I think most of you will enjoy the book. If you are like me though, you should stay clear.
I think most of you will enjoy the book. If you are like me though, you should stay clear.
December 21, 2018
REALLY!?!?!?
I stayed up and read to have it just end like that? YUK I can’t believe the crappy reason for all the drama! I feel like the author thinks the reader is the dumbest person on the planet and she is laughing her butt off at how she dragged this book out and then came out with the flimsiest reason I have ever heard! All this drama, tears, more drama, and back and forth over something that if he had known her wouldn’t have mattered! Arghhhh I am so mad over this!!! Sage was so stupid and Jacob more so.
I have to stop ranting. This was a terrible book and I feel so duped.
I stayed up and read to have it just end like that? YUK I can’t believe the crappy reason for all the drama! I feel like the author thinks the reader is the dumbest person on the planet and she is laughing her butt off at how she dragged this book out and then came out with the flimsiest reason I have ever heard! All this drama, tears, more drama, and back and forth over something that if he had known her wouldn’t have mattered! Arghhhh I am so mad over this!!! Sage was so stupid and Jacob more so.
I have to stop ranting. This was a terrible book and I feel so duped.
October 24, 2018
In my opinion, this book was a fu... shit.
I wasted my time, so dramatic for nothing.
i hated it.
I wasted my time, so dramatic for nothing.
i hated it.
October 29, 2018
This is one big NOPE!
God, I hate giving bad reviews, but this book gave me a massive headache from the amount of eye rolling I was doing. Yes, excessive eye rolling, and you know what? It's very hard to read whilst doing that.
Okay, the breakdown of why I disliked this book so much.... If I'm gonna write it, I'm going to vent like a drama queen.
One - use of language, I'm sorry but who actually says "No way, Jose" using it twice, is two too many times. It was stilted, juvenile and I can't imagine anyone speaking this way. When they were kids they spoke like adults and when they were adults that spoke like a satire of teen crossed with an old age pensioner. Uses of "we made love" and the endearment of "my love" for God sake, they're not bloody 80. I can say for a fact that I have never used those words in my life unless I was being sarcastic - You may as well blue rinse my hair, perm it and then call me Doris. (No ill will to any Doris' out there, I'm sure you're fabulous.) But still!!
Two - The plot, sounds great via the blurb, epic fail when laid out on paper. The whole angst ridden feel to the whole story. Jacob (hero, aka bloody moron) left the orphanage, promised to write to Sage (Heroine aka wet lettuce), gave heartfelt sonnets of his love, blah, blah, blah, he left never came back, never contacted her again. Then we, the reader, have to suffer through the torture of their reunion at college. J's all I love you, but I can't tell you my deep, dark, secret about why I left, happened multiple times to the point where if I read another "I can't say", I don't want you to hate me speech, I'd eat my kindle and choke on it happily before laying eyes on that ever again... And S's all I love you too, but I won't let you get close again, changed dramatically to: here's my virginity take it on the beach....?!
Three - The deep dark secret. What a bloody waste, so anticlimactic! Firstly, I saw it coming, so poorly executed, why couldn't there have been an actual confrontation of Sage seeing it, instead of another long monologue of confession from Jacob. If I knew a guy was hiding something about why they never contacted me, but declares his love like it's oxygen, I'd do my damndest to find out what. Secondly, what even was the point of Kimberley? She was a pointless excuse for an antagonist whom he slept with in the past..... and then what? Nothing. Made no difference to the plot in any shape or form.
I'm surprised I even finished it, I had to though, not finishing books haunt me and this is one I wanted to read and promptly forget.
If you see this recommended, run!
God, I hate giving bad reviews, but this book gave me a massive headache from the amount of eye rolling I was doing. Yes, excessive eye rolling, and you know what? It's very hard to read whilst doing that.
Okay, the breakdown of why I disliked this book so much.... If I'm gonna write it, I'm going to vent like a drama queen.
One - use of language, I'm sorry but who actually says "No way, Jose" using it twice, is two too many times. It was stilted, juvenile and I can't imagine anyone speaking this way. When they were kids they spoke like adults and when they were adults that spoke like a satire of teen crossed with an old age pensioner. Uses of "we made love" and the endearment of "my love" for God sake, they're not bloody 80. I can say for a fact that I have never used those words in my life unless I was being sarcastic - You may as well blue rinse my hair, perm it and then call me Doris. (No ill will to any Doris' out there, I'm sure you're fabulous.) But still!!
Two - The plot, sounds great via the blurb, epic fail when laid out on paper. The whole angst ridden feel to the whole story. Jacob (hero, aka bloody moron) left the orphanage, promised to write to Sage (Heroine aka wet lettuce), gave heartfelt sonnets of his love, blah, blah, blah, he left never came back, never contacted her again. Then we, the reader, have to suffer through the torture of their reunion at college. J's all I love you, but I can't tell you my deep, dark, secret about why I left, happened multiple times to the point where if I read another "I can't say", I don't want you to hate me speech, I'd eat my kindle and choke on it happily before laying eyes on that ever again... And S's all I love you too, but I won't let you get close again, changed dramatically to: here's my virginity take it on the beach....?!
Three - The deep dark secret. What a bloody waste, so anticlimactic! Firstly, I saw it coming, so poorly executed, why couldn't there have been an actual confrontation of Sage seeing it, instead of another long monologue of confession from Jacob. If I knew a guy was hiding something about why they never contacted me, but declares his love like it's oxygen, I'd do my damndest to find out what. Secondly, what even was the point of Kimberley? She was a pointless excuse for an antagonist whom he slept with in the past..... and then what? Nothing. Made no difference to the plot in any shape or form.
I'm surprised I even finished it, I had to though, not finishing books haunt me and this is one I wanted to read and promptly forget.
If you see this recommended, run!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
October 24, 2018
What an emotional and moving story. Sage and Jacob met as children at an orphanage and were best friends until he was adopted. Their early lives were so different in that he was a 'love child' whose parents were killed in an accident. He survived because he was cushioned between them. She lived in an 'unwanted situation' with her mother and stepfather until she was dropped at the orphanage. They meet again years later at college and the drama continues. Lots of suspense and twists. No spoiler here, but this is a good read that will keep your interest. I read a reader copy and voluntarily chose to write a review.
October 26, 2018
This book is prime example of why J.S. Cooper is one of my favorite authors, there’s virtually nothing by her i won’t read. This book had me reeled in hook, line & sinker beginning to end. I just couldn’t put it down.
Sage and Jacob both have not had it easy but for different reasons and when they meet again everything comes crushing back. Including the heartbreak and pain. My heart ached for Sage and I couldn’t help but love her!!!! Hands down I would recommend this book to anyone!!
I voluntarily reviewed a advanced readers copy of this book
Sage and Jacob both have not had it easy but for different reasons and when they meet again everything comes crushing back. Including the heartbreak and pain. My heart ached for Sage and I couldn’t help but love her!!!! Hands down I would recommend this book to anyone!!
I voluntarily reviewed a advanced readers copy of this book
October 30, 2018
3 1/2 stars.
I generally like Ms. Cooper's books and while I enjoyed Carry My Heart it wasn't my favorite of her books.
Sage and Jacob meet in an orphanage that they were both placed in at around the age of 10.
Sage is introverted and keeps to herself. She has no friends. Jacob is just the opposite. Sage sees him as a breath of fresh air in the orphanage although she can't understand why he's so happy.
Jump ahead a few years and Jacob decides he wants to be friends with Sage. Sage doesn't understand why he wants to be friends with her and she doesn't know how to talk to people anyway so she tells Jacob if he wants to be friends that they have to write letters to each other every day. Jacob doesn't understand but he writes the letters. Jump ahead again and Sage and Jacob are now best friends and boyfriend/girlfriend. But at 16 Jacob gets adopted out of the blue. While their future plans have been put on hold they agree to write each other every day and they plan to visit whenever possible. Without giving away too much they don't actually see each other again for years. Once again Ms. Cooper jumps ahead without any segue-way.
The reunion brings out anger and hurt but Sage and Jacob are trying to get to know one another again. But Jacob is keeping a big secret from Sage. This leaves Sage confused and unable to trust Jacob.
There are some surprises and the reveal of the big secret, which I admit took me by surprise.
My problem with this book is the timeline. We don't know when or how far Ms. Cooper has jumped ahead. There are times I felt like I felt a segue-way would have helped. I also felt some sub-plots were not followed up on.
There are some surprises and I admit I didn't see the big secret coming.
I still recommend this book but I also recommend that you go back and read some of Ms. Cooper's others books. The Last Boyfriend series was one of my favorites. Four Week Fiance is also a good read.
Carry My Heart is a stand-alone book with a HEA.
I generally like Ms. Cooper's books and while I enjoyed Carry My Heart it wasn't my favorite of her books.
Sage and Jacob meet in an orphanage that they were both placed in at around the age of 10.
Sage is introverted and keeps to herself. She has no friends. Jacob is just the opposite. Sage sees him as a breath of fresh air in the orphanage although she can't understand why he's so happy.
Jump ahead a few years and Jacob decides he wants to be friends with Sage. Sage doesn't understand why he wants to be friends with her and she doesn't know how to talk to people anyway so she tells Jacob if he wants to be friends that they have to write letters to each other every day. Jacob doesn't understand but he writes the letters. Jump ahead again and Sage and Jacob are now best friends and boyfriend/girlfriend. But at 16 Jacob gets adopted out of the blue. While their future plans have been put on hold they agree to write each other every day and they plan to visit whenever possible. Without giving away too much they don't actually see each other again for years. Once again Ms. Cooper jumps ahead without any segue-way.
The reunion brings out anger and hurt but Sage and Jacob are trying to get to know one another again. But Jacob is keeping a big secret from Sage. This leaves Sage confused and unable to trust Jacob.
There are some surprises and the reveal of the big secret, which I admit took me by surprise.
My problem with this book is the timeline. We don't know when or how far Ms. Cooper has jumped ahead. There are times I felt like I felt a segue-way would have helped. I also felt some sub-plots were not followed up on.
There are some surprises and I admit I didn't see the big secret coming.
I still recommend this book but I also recommend that you go back and read some of Ms. Cooper's others books. The Last Boyfriend series was one of my favorites. Four Week Fiance is also a good read.
Carry My Heart is a stand-alone book with a HEA.
October 30, 2018
This is heartwarming story about two kids Jacob and Sage who met in an orphanage and grow close but when one is adopted they promise to stay in touch and in two years be together forever. Life gets in the way and they lose each other, but years later they meet up again in college. Things have changed and Sage has never forgiven Jacob for breaking his promise and doesn’t want to let him in again. When a bet lost Sage had no choice but to be with Jacob. Will Jacob be able to get Sage to forgive him or had she closed her heart forever? I was lucky enough to be a beta reader for this book and I went through a lot of emotions reading.
I was given a copy of this book for a honest review.
I was given a copy of this book for a honest review.
October 26, 2018
“You've always brought me up. You've always made me feel like the most special person in the world. And I want to thank you for that. When I've been low, you've always made me feel better. Always.”
Carry My Heart is a beautiful, moving story with interesting main characters.
I highly recommend it.
Carry My Heart is a beautiful, moving story with interesting main characters.
I highly recommend it.
October 27, 2018
From author J.S. Cooper, comes an emotional, bittersweet and heartfelt romance story of first love, suspense, angst, heartbreak, drama, twists, a secrets, forgiveness, second chances, and forever love. Carry My Heart is well-written and thought provoking with wonderful characters with real flaws, real strengths, and real passion.
October 27, 2018
From author J.S. Cooper, comes an emotional, bittersweet and heartfelt romance story of first love, suspense, angst, heartbreak, drama, twists, a secrets, forgiveness, second chances, and forever love. Carry My Heart is well-written and thought provoking with wonderful characters with real flaws, real strengths, and real passion.
October 31, 2018
I received a copy of this book from the publisher/author to review.
Sage Weston and Jacob Phillips met as children at Little Kitty Orphanage. They had the type of friendship that would weather any storm and they vowed that they would always be there for each other. And then Jacob was adopted, and everything changed. At first the letters were fast and furious but then they stopped and Sage was left all alone. Four years later, Sage and Jacob bump into each at a university party. Sparks fly, daggers are drawn and Sage wants nothing to do with Jacob or the bevvy of women that seem to follow him everywhere he goes. Then Sage loses a bet and she can no long avoid Jacob. Though she does everything she can to let him know that they are no longer friends. But Jacob has plans, and is determined for Sage to know the truth about what happened four years ago, even if it costs him everything.
This book is not a very long one but it is one that I enjoyed. I loved the story of Sage and Jacob. If you love second chance romances this is the one you don't want to miss. These two did not have a easy life growing up. Between the two though Jacob had it better and Sage felt abandoned. Especially after the letters from Jacob stopped. When they run into each other though the sparks are gonna fly and the fighting to not feel anything begins. This is a great book and one that I would recommend.
Sage Weston and Jacob Phillips met as children at Little Kitty Orphanage. They had the type of friendship that would weather any storm and they vowed that they would always be there for each other. And then Jacob was adopted, and everything changed. At first the letters were fast and furious but then they stopped and Sage was left all alone. Four years later, Sage and Jacob bump into each at a university party. Sparks fly, daggers are drawn and Sage wants nothing to do with Jacob or the bevvy of women that seem to follow him everywhere he goes. Then Sage loses a bet and she can no long avoid Jacob. Though she does everything she can to let him know that they are no longer friends. But Jacob has plans, and is determined for Sage to know the truth about what happened four years ago, even if it costs him everything.
This book is not a very long one but it is one that I enjoyed. I loved the story of Sage and Jacob. If you love second chance romances this is the one you don't want to miss. These two did not have a easy life growing up. Between the two though Jacob had it better and Sage felt abandoned. Especially after the letters from Jacob stopped. When they run into each other though the sparks are gonna fly and the fighting to not feel anything begins. This is a great book and one that I would recommend.
November 22, 2018
If I could give it -5 Stars I would.
I promised myself that I wouldn't write negative reviews out of respect for the author because I know it's not easy to write and put your work out for everyone to read, but honestly this is one of the times when I just can't. I really tried... but I have to say something: this was one of the worst books I've ever read. Why did I read it until the end? I honestly don't have an answer other than its really short and I needed to know the "big secret", where all this "faux angst" was originating from. And the "secret" was so stupid that I can't even believe what I read. So, right when the "bomb of a secret" is dropped, it's like the author didn't see the need to write anything else so it abruptly ends in the same idiotic manner. Right then and there just... ends. Just an abrupt and nonsensical ending for a nonsensical book.
That's all I'm going to say.
I promised myself that I wouldn't write negative reviews out of respect for the author because I know it's not easy to write and put your work out for everyone to read, but honestly this is one of the times when I just can't. I really tried... but I have to say something: this was one of the worst books I've ever read. Why did I read it until the end? I honestly don't have an answer other than its really short and I needed to know the "big secret", where all this "faux angst" was originating from. And the "secret" was so stupid that I can't even believe what I read. So, right when the "bomb of a secret" is dropped, it's like the author didn't see the need to write anything else so it abruptly ends in the same idiotic manner. Right then and there just... ends. Just an abrupt and nonsensical ending for a nonsensical book.
That's all I'm going to say.
December 26, 2018
for Carry My Heart:
I just loved the story from Sage and Jacob! Both meet at the orphanage, and grow up loving each other until Jacob gets adopted. But then comes a twist you'll find out later, but Jacob and Sage reunite again. Though Sage wonders why Jacob never wrote to her, while she wrote and wrote to him and never got a letter back. (He has a lot of explaining to do) Will Sage let him tell her the truth? Did he fall out of love because of another Woman?
Well Carry My Heart took my heart to another level, sometimes we have to wait, and be patient, and also be honest with one another for true love to happen!
Another great book by J.S. Cooper. I'd definitely recommend!!
I just loved the story from Sage and Jacob! Both meet at the orphanage, and grow up loving each other until Jacob gets adopted. But then comes a twist you'll find out later, but Jacob and Sage reunite again. Though Sage wonders why Jacob never wrote to her, while she wrote and wrote to him and never got a letter back. (He has a lot of explaining to do) Will Sage let him tell her the truth? Did he fall out of love because of another Woman?
Well Carry My Heart took my heart to another level, sometimes we have to wait, and be patient, and also be honest with one another for true love to happen!
Another great book by J.S. Cooper. I'd definitely recommend!!
October 27, 2018
From author J.S. Cooper, comes an emotional, bittersweet and heartfelt romance story of first love, suspense, angst, heartbreak, drama, twists, a secrets, forgiveness, second chances, and forever love. Carry My Heart is well-written and thought provoking with wonderful characters with real flaws, real strengths, and real passion.
February 23, 2023
This doesn't even deserve any starts I couldn't even finish this book. It was so disappointing, but maybe other people will enjoy it. And I also didn't understand what was going on and what happened.
December 12, 2018
It was a sweet story with a great beginning. I was hooked but as the story progressed, for me, it kind of lost that greatness. It was enjoyable but I expected more.
September 5, 2019
Carry my Heart was an emotional story of childhood friends who had that undying love through tragic circumstances.
Jacob and Sage met and became friends at the orphanage they lived at. Different circumstances led them to be there. Life brings them a separation and then they meet again a few years later.
This emotional and heartwarming story has all the feels.
Jacob and Sage met and became friends at the orphanage they lived at. Different circumstances led them to be there. Life brings them a separation and then they meet again a few years later.
This emotional and heartwarming story has all the feels.
Want to read
April 28, 2015Does anyone know when this is out?
September 23, 2020
Jacob & Sage’s Romance Is An Angst-Filled Quick Read About Abandonment, Betrayal, & Secrets!
Sage Weston, twenty-one, still struggles with the abandonment issues that plagued her childhood. She is barely scraping by, but had she managed to make it to college all on her own. She is thankful to have Nina in her life, her one friend and roommate. Nina is outgoing and social, unlike Sage who prefers to stay in and study. Nina doesn’t have financial worries since she has parents who love and support her. Paying the bills every month has been a worry for Sage since leaving Little Kitty Orphanage at eighteen. She had never known her father and was abandoned by her mother at age seven, so most of her childhood was spent in the orphanage. She had never felt love or the security of belonging to a family in all those years. But there had been one boy that befriended her when she turned thirteen. She didn’t trust him at first. He was too happy and made friends easily. But their friendship grew until at age sixteen they were in love. She felt connected and cherished. Sage had taken a chance on this boy, but he had broken all the promises he made her just as soon as he was welcomed into a family, leaving her and the orphanage behind. She hadn’t made that mistake again. Nina might be her only friend, but she knew very little about Sage. It was better to live a heartless life alone than to offer up her heart on silver platter again.
Jacob Phillips, twenty-one, has pined for Sage Weston since leaving her five years ago. But he has secrets, and those secrets will hurt her if she ever finds out. He had watched the shy girl since his arrival at the orphanage after his parents died in an accident when he was ten. But after three years of watching her, he had finally declared that they would be friends. He admired the depth of her feelings and her keen intelligence. Their banter even as children was fun and they could talk forever about anything. But that all ended. He wants to go to her but hasn’t figured out how to approach her without offering an explanation. Yet when he spies her at a party at school, he knows he can delay no longer.
Jacob and Sage’s romance is an emotional angst-filled quick read about abandonment, betrayal, and secrets. Jacob has a great sense of humor, but shy Sage is perfect with her come-backs. She comes out of her shell around him, which makes her loneliness in his absence that much more palpable. Despite his six years as an orphan, Jacob never seemed to suffer the abandonment issues that Sage had. He was a much-wanted love child before his parents’ accident. His charismatic personality ensured he had no shortage of attention at the orphanage during the first three years. And when he decided he wanted to become Sage’s friend at long last, he had his way with her, too. It doesn’t seem fair that he left Sage behind and lived a full social life even knowing Sage was so nearby. He knew what he did had destroyed her. It is difficult to reconcile the boy from the orphanage with the one who left Sage to her own devices. Be prepared for shocking surprises as Jacob and Sage reconnect. Their couple eventually earns their happy ending.
Jacob and Sage’s story about young orphans that find love to have it ripped away takes the reader on a gut-clenching rollercoaster ride. The story is a well-written quick read. The plot is somewhat complex. The characters are nicely developed. They feel real and raw .The story is written in first person. The POV alternates between Jacob and Sage. I rate this book 4.5 starts.
I received an advance copy of this book and audiobook and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Sage Weston, twenty-one, still struggles with the abandonment issues that plagued her childhood. She is barely scraping by, but had she managed to make it to college all on her own. She is thankful to have Nina in her life, her one friend and roommate. Nina is outgoing and social, unlike Sage who prefers to stay in and study. Nina doesn’t have financial worries since she has parents who love and support her. Paying the bills every month has been a worry for Sage since leaving Little Kitty Orphanage at eighteen. She had never known her father and was abandoned by her mother at age seven, so most of her childhood was spent in the orphanage. She had never felt love or the security of belonging to a family in all those years. But there had been one boy that befriended her when she turned thirteen. She didn’t trust him at first. He was too happy and made friends easily. But their friendship grew until at age sixteen they were in love. She felt connected and cherished. Sage had taken a chance on this boy, but he had broken all the promises he made her just as soon as he was welcomed into a family, leaving her and the orphanage behind. She hadn’t made that mistake again. Nina might be her only friend, but she knew very little about Sage. It was better to live a heartless life alone than to offer up her heart on silver platter again.
Jacob Phillips, twenty-one, has pined for Sage Weston since leaving her five years ago. But he has secrets, and those secrets will hurt her if she ever finds out. He had watched the shy girl since his arrival at the orphanage after his parents died in an accident when he was ten. But after three years of watching her, he had finally declared that they would be friends. He admired the depth of her feelings and her keen intelligence. Their banter even as children was fun and they could talk forever about anything. But that all ended. He wants to go to her but hasn’t figured out how to approach her without offering an explanation. Yet when he spies her at a party at school, he knows he can delay no longer.
Jacob and Sage’s romance is an emotional angst-filled quick read about abandonment, betrayal, and secrets. Jacob has a great sense of humor, but shy Sage is perfect with her come-backs. She comes out of her shell around him, which makes her loneliness in his absence that much more palpable. Despite his six years as an orphan, Jacob never seemed to suffer the abandonment issues that Sage had. He was a much-wanted love child before his parents’ accident. His charismatic personality ensured he had no shortage of attention at the orphanage during the first three years. And when he decided he wanted to become Sage’s friend at long last, he had his way with her, too. It doesn’t seem fair that he left Sage behind and lived a full social life even knowing Sage was so nearby. He knew what he did had destroyed her. It is difficult to reconcile the boy from the orphanage with the one who left Sage to her own devices. Be prepared for shocking surprises as Jacob and Sage reconnect. Their couple eventually earns their happy ending.
Jacob and Sage’s story about young orphans that find love to have it ripped away takes the reader on a gut-clenching rollercoaster ride. The story is a well-written quick read. The plot is somewhat complex. The characters are nicely developed. They feel real and raw .The story is written in first person. The POV alternates between Jacob and Sage. I rate this book 4.5 starts.
I received an advance copy of this book and audiobook and am voluntarily leaving a review.
September 23, 2020
Jacob & Sage’s Romance Is An Angst-Filled Quick Read About Abandonment, Betrayal, & Secrets!
Sage Weston, twenty-one, still struggles with the abandonment issues that plagued her childhood. She is barely scraping by, but had she managed to make it to college all on her own. She is thankful to have Nina in her life, her one friend and roommate. Nina is outgoing and social, unlike Sage who prefers to stay in and study. Nina doesn’t have financial worries since she has parents who love and support her. Paying the bills every month has been a worry for Sage since leaving Little Kitty Orphanage at eighteen. She had never known her father and was abandoned by her mother at age seven, so most of her childhood was spent in the orphanage. She had never felt love or the security of belonging to a family in all those years. But there had been one boy that befriended her when she turned thirteen. She didn’t trust him at first. He was too happy and made friends easily. But their friendship grew until at age sixteen they were in love. She felt connected and cherished. Sage had taken a chance on this boy, but he had broken all the promises he made her just as soon as he was welcomed into a family, leaving her and the orphanage behind. She hadn’t made that mistake again. Nina might be her only friend, but she knew very little about Sage. It was better to live a heartless life alone than to offer up her heart on silver platter again.
Jacob Phillips, twenty-one, has pined for Sage Weston since leaving her five years ago. But he has secrets, and those secrets will hurt her if she ever finds out. He had watched the shy girl since his arrival at the orphanage after his parents died in an accident when he was ten. But after three years of watching her, he had finally declared that they would be friends. He admired the depth of her feelings and her keen intelligence. Their banter even as children was fun and they could talk forever about anything. But that all ended. He wants to go to her but hasn’t figured out how to approach her without offering an explanation. Yet when he spies her at a party at school, he knows he can delay no longer.
Jacob and Sage’s romance is an emotional angst-filled quick read about abandonment, betrayal, and secrets. Jacob has a great sense of humor, but shy Sage is perfect with her come-backs. She comes out of her shell around him, which makes her loneliness in his absence that much more palpable. Despite his six years as an orphan, Jacob never seemed to suffer the abandonment issues that Sage had. He was a much-wanted love child before his parents’ accident. His charismatic personality ensured he had no shortage of attention at the orphanage during the first three years. And when he decided he wanted to become Sage’s friend at long last, he had his way with her, too. It doesn’t seem fair that he left Sage behind and lived a full social life even knowing Sage was so nearby. He knew what he did had destroyed her. It is difficult to reconcile the boy from the orphanage with the one who left Sage to her own devices. Be prepared for shocking surprises as Jacob and Sage reconnect. Their couple eventually earns their happy ending.
Jacob and Sage’s story about young orphans that find love to have it ripped away takes the reader on a gut-clenching rollercoaster ride. The story is a well-written quick read. The plot is somewhat complex. The characters are nicely developed. They feel real and raw .The story is written in first person. The POV alternates between Jacob and Sage. I rate this book 4.5 starts.
I received an advance copy of this book and audiobook and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Sage Weston, twenty-one, still struggles with the abandonment issues that plagued her childhood. She is barely scraping by, but had she managed to make it to college all on her own. She is thankful to have Nina in her life, her one friend and roommate. Nina is outgoing and social, unlike Sage who prefers to stay in and study. Nina doesn’t have financial worries since she has parents who love and support her. Paying the bills every month has been a worry for Sage since leaving Little Kitty Orphanage at eighteen. She had never known her father and was abandoned by her mother at age seven, so most of her childhood was spent in the orphanage. She had never felt love or the security of belonging to a family in all those years. But there had been one boy that befriended her when she turned thirteen. She didn’t trust him at first. He was too happy and made friends easily. But their friendship grew until at age sixteen they were in love. She felt connected and cherished. Sage had taken a chance on this boy, but he had broken all the promises he made her just as soon as he was welcomed into a family, leaving her and the orphanage behind. She hadn’t made that mistake again. Nina might be her only friend, but she knew very little about Sage. It was better to live a heartless life alone than to offer up her heart on silver platter again.
Jacob Phillips, twenty-one, has pined for Sage Weston since leaving her five years ago. But he has secrets, and those secrets will hurt her if she ever finds out. He had watched the shy girl since his arrival at the orphanage after his parents died in an accident when he was ten. But after three years of watching her, he had finally declared that they would be friends. He admired the depth of her feelings and her keen intelligence. Their banter even as children was fun and they could talk forever about anything. But that all ended. He wants to go to her but hasn’t figured out how to approach her without offering an explanation. Yet when he spies her at a party at school, he knows he can delay no longer.
Jacob and Sage’s romance is an emotional angst-filled quick read about abandonment, betrayal, and secrets. Jacob has a great sense of humor, but shy Sage is perfect with her come-backs. She comes out of her shell around him, which makes her loneliness in his absence that much more palpable. Despite his six years as an orphan, Jacob never seemed to suffer the abandonment issues that Sage had. He was a much-wanted love child before his parents’ accident. His charismatic personality ensured he had no shortage of attention at the orphanage during the first three years. And when he decided he wanted to become Sage’s friend at long last, he had his way with her, too. It doesn’t seem fair that he left Sage behind and lived a full social life even knowing Sage was so nearby. He knew what he did had destroyed her. It is difficult to reconcile the boy from the orphanage with the one who left Sage to her own devices. Be prepared for shocking surprises as Jacob and Sage reconnect. Their couple eventually earns their happy ending.
Jacob and Sage’s story about young orphans that find love to have it ripped away takes the reader on a gut-clenching rollercoaster ride. The story is a well-written quick read. The plot is somewhat complex. The characters are nicely developed. They feel real and raw .The story is written in first person. The POV alternates between Jacob and Sage. I rate this book 4.5 starts.
I received an advance copy of this book and audiobook and am voluntarily leaving a review.
October 31, 2018
The beginning of this book sweeps you right off your feet. "Ten Seconds, that was how long it took for him (Jacob) to come back into my life. As the book summary eludes, Jacob and Sage became the best of friends while they both resided at an orphanage. Like many best friendships, their relationship blossomed into something more and a promise to never be apart. However, when Jacob gets adopted and Sage doesn't their friendship is torn apart.
Sage spends years trying to reach Jacob through letters, but never a single word in response. After 8-long years, Sage has moved forward, trying to mend her broken heart. Image her surprise when she runs into Jacob at a College party. Through one bad hand at poker, Sage ends up spending a month with Jacob. At this point, the story gets very interesting. You learn of their continued feelings for each other and the dark secrets they harbor. Unfortunately, there is just one secret Jacob will not divulge and it's tearing any rebuilding of their relationship apart.
The first 60% of the book draws the reader in deep to the storyline. You find yourself turning page after page to see what happens next. Unfortunately, after the first 60% things get a little less anti-climatic. The same storyline of "Jacob's big secret" as to why he didn't write for 8-years continues to come up too frequently. The fact that Sage continues to bring it up too frequently, makes you start to lose interest. Throw in the "mystery girl" that keeps calling and texting Jacob for a little spice in the last 40% and you find yourself finishing the book just to see what the big secret was (in case you didn't figure it out before then). I do recommend this book; as it gets you hooked right out the gate. Just be prepared for a slower ending.
Sage spends years trying to reach Jacob through letters, but never a single word in response. After 8-long years, Sage has moved forward, trying to mend her broken heart. Image her surprise when she runs into Jacob at a College party. Through one bad hand at poker, Sage ends up spending a month with Jacob. At this point, the story gets very interesting. You learn of their continued feelings for each other and the dark secrets they harbor. Unfortunately, there is just one secret Jacob will not divulge and it's tearing any rebuilding of their relationship apart.
The first 60% of the book draws the reader in deep to the storyline. You find yourself turning page after page to see what happens next. Unfortunately, after the first 60% things get a little less anti-climatic. The same storyline of "Jacob's big secret" as to why he didn't write for 8-years continues to come up too frequently. The fact that Sage continues to bring it up too frequently, makes you start to lose interest. Throw in the "mystery girl" that keeps calling and texting Jacob for a little spice in the last 40% and you find yourself finishing the book just to see what the big secret was (in case you didn't figure it out before then). I do recommend this book; as it gets you hooked right out the gate. Just be prepared for a slower ending.
November 2, 2018
It all started with a few letters. She fell in love with him at thirteen. Love that was meant-to-be does not fade with time or distance.
Sage loved Jacob since they were kids. She was closed off and kept to herself at the orphanage. When your own parents don't want you, it's hard to trust and form relationships. But Jacob insisted that they were meant to be friends and he was willing to make the effort.
Jacob came from a loving family. He ended up in the orphanage when his parents were killed in an accident. He was happy and full of life.
Jacob and Sage became inseparable...until he was adopted. He promised to keep in touch and come visit. Sage wrote him and he never wrote back. He left her.
Devastated and heartbroken...Sage carried on. It's been five years. Sage is in college and making a life. She's still closed off...everyone leaves. And then she sees Jacob at a party and all the hurt comes flooding back. She has so many questions and he has so man secrets. But the love they shared, never wavered. Now she has to be willing to risk it all to rekindle their love.
A sweet love story with some surprises. The author brought the slow burn and the sexual tension. Jacob knew he wanted Sage and he was willing to do what he needed to bring her back into his life, but she wasn't about to make it easy on him. Both would have to let go of the past and share their secrets to move forward and build a future. But being together, was worth everything!
Sage loved Jacob since they were kids. She was closed off and kept to herself at the orphanage. When your own parents don't want you, it's hard to trust and form relationships. But Jacob insisted that they were meant to be friends and he was willing to make the effort.
Jacob came from a loving family. He ended up in the orphanage when his parents were killed in an accident. He was happy and full of life.
Jacob and Sage became inseparable...until he was adopted. He promised to keep in touch and come visit. Sage wrote him and he never wrote back. He left her.
Devastated and heartbroken...Sage carried on. It's been five years. Sage is in college and making a life. She's still closed off...everyone leaves. And then she sees Jacob at a party and all the hurt comes flooding back. She has so many questions and he has so man secrets. But the love they shared, never wavered. Now she has to be willing to risk it all to rekindle their love.
A sweet love story with some surprises. The author brought the slow burn and the sexual tension. Jacob knew he wanted Sage and he was willing to do what he needed to bring her back into his life, but she wasn't about to make it easy on him. Both would have to let go of the past and share their secrets to move forward and build a future. But being together, was worth everything!
October 25, 2018
Jacob Phillips was my best friend.
He was my first love. We shared our first kiss together. He broke my heart."
Sage Weston and Jacob Phillips met as children at Little Kitty Orphanage. They had the type of friendship that could weather any storm and they vowed that they would always be there for each other. And then Jacob was adopted, and everything changed.
At first, the letters were fast and furious but then they stopped, and Sage was left all alone. Four years later, Sage and Jacob bump into each other at a university party. Sparks fly, daggers are drawn, and Sage wants nothing to do with Jacob or the bevy of women that seem to follow him everywhere he goes.
Then Sage loses a bet, and she can no longer avoid Jacob. Though she does everything she can to let him know that they are no longer friends. But Jacob has plans and is determined for Sage to know the truth about what happened four years ago, even if it costs him everything.
Talk about a complicated relationship! Jacob & Sage's story will take you on an emotional ride but in the best possible way! Flawlessly written and heartfelt!
He was my first love. We shared our first kiss together. He broke my heart."
Sage Weston and Jacob Phillips met as children at Little Kitty Orphanage. They had the type of friendship that could weather any storm and they vowed that they would always be there for each other. And then Jacob was adopted, and everything changed.
At first, the letters were fast and furious but then they stopped, and Sage was left all alone. Four years later, Sage and Jacob bump into each other at a university party. Sparks fly, daggers are drawn, and Sage wants nothing to do with Jacob or the bevy of women that seem to follow him everywhere he goes.
Then Sage loses a bet, and she can no longer avoid Jacob. Though she does everything she can to let him know that they are no longer friends. But Jacob has plans and is determined for Sage to know the truth about what happened four years ago, even if it costs him everything.
Talk about a complicated relationship! Jacob & Sage's story will take you on an emotional ride but in the best possible way! Flawlessly written and heartfelt!
October 27, 2018
Carry My Heart is a sweet second chance romance by J.S. Cooper. Sage and Jacob met as children at an orphanage - Jacob was there because his parents died, but Sage had been abandoned by her mother at a young age making it hard for her to trust people. Jacob broke down her walls claiming that they were going to be best friends and everything was great until Jacob was adopted...
Fast forward 5 years and they meet again but this time Sage isn't falling for for Jacob's attempt to get back together. Jacob has a secret that he isn't sharing, and Sage won't give him her heart again until he tells her.
There were a few spots during the book that I think could have been explained further... like when Sage goes to visit him and finds him with someone else. Why didn't she confront him about that when they met again? I know I would have! How did Jacobs adopted parents find out about the money?? If Jacob had been going to the same college as Sage, why did he wait so long to approach her??
Other than the few questions I had, this was a really sweet story that was easy to read and had a HEA. Read it, you will love it!!
Fast forward 5 years and they meet again but this time Sage isn't falling for for Jacob's attempt to get back together. Jacob has a secret that he isn't sharing, and Sage won't give him her heart again until he tells her.
There were a few spots during the book that I think could have been explained further... like when Sage goes to visit him and finds him with someone else. Why didn't she confront him about that when they met again? I know I would have! How did Jacobs adopted parents find out about the money?? If Jacob had been going to the same college as Sage, why did he wait so long to approach her??
Other than the few questions I had, this was a really sweet story that was easy to read and had a HEA. Read it, you will love it!!
November 20, 2018
Carry My Heart sounded like a really great story but sadly fell short. Sage Weston and Jacob Phillips were both orphans at Little Kitty Orphanage. They were both orphans but from very different backgrounds. Sage was left at the orphanage when she was 7 years old by her mother because the new husband didn't want any children. Jacob came to the orphanage because his parents were killed in a car crash but he never questioned their love.
Sage and Jacob were completely different children as well. Sage was quiet, shy, and an introvert while Jacob was friendly, kind, and an extrovert. They became the best of friends and somewhat more but it all changed when Jacob was adopted and he went away. She wrote him letters all the time but never heard back from him.
Years later they both meet again in college. Sage wants nothing to do with the guy that ripped her heart out while Jacob wants to start anew. Jacob will do anything for her except tell her some things from his past.
The description and idea for this book are really interesting but the story falls short. There isn't much character development and the story seems pretty rushed at times.
Sage and Jacob were completely different children as well. Sage was quiet, shy, and an introvert while Jacob was friendly, kind, and an extrovert. They became the best of friends and somewhat more but it all changed when Jacob was adopted and he went away. She wrote him letters all the time but never heard back from him.
Years later they both meet again in college. Sage wants nothing to do with the guy that ripped her heart out while Jacob wants to start anew. Jacob will do anything for her except tell her some things from his past.
The description and idea for this book are really interesting but the story falls short. There isn't much character development and the story seems pretty rushed at times.
October 29, 2018
I seem to have waited forever for this book to be released and wow was it worth the wait, what with the spot on flawless writing and the romantic passion that just draws you in, and before you know where you are you have turned the last page. Jacob Phillips and Sage Weston were in the Little Kitty Orphanage together while growing up and that's where their attraction and love for each other grew until the day Jacob was adopted, your heart breaks for Sage as she feels she is one of the unwanted ones as nobody wanted to adopt her and she misses Jacob so much, she writes to him but he never replies!! Years later they meet again at a frat party in the same university they are attending, the chemistry is sizzling between them but with hidden secrets from Jacob and distrust from Sage is the gap too wide to close for them to have a HEA and when the delusional ex of Jacob's shows up throwing a big fat spanner into the works are they doomed?? Read the book to find the answers. I was given this as an ARC in exchange for a voluntary honest review.
November 14, 2018
4.5 stars
Starting over and learning to trust again is challenging. Growing up alone is never easy. One day things were looking up when Jacob was placed in an orphanage and met Sage. She had been there for a while and believed that everyone she loved would leave her. In order to get Sage to like him, Jacob begins to exchange letters with her to earn her trust. Then the unforgettable day arrived when Jacob was taken away to live with a foster family and Sage was once again alone. Fast forward a few years and Sage and Jacob reconnect at a college party. She wants nothing to do with Jacob but he is more than determined to win back her affections. The problem is that Jacob has a secret that he is scared to tell Sage because he does not want to lose her. Will Jacob tell Sage the truth? Can Sage open up and trust Jacob with her whole heart? This is one intense and heart warming second chance romance with a twist that you will not see coming.
I volunteered to read an advance copy of this book.
Starting over and learning to trust again is challenging. Growing up alone is never easy. One day things were looking up when Jacob was placed in an orphanage and met Sage. She had been there for a while and believed that everyone she loved would leave her. In order to get Sage to like him, Jacob begins to exchange letters with her to earn her trust. Then the unforgettable day arrived when Jacob was taken away to live with a foster family and Sage was once again alone. Fast forward a few years and Sage and Jacob reconnect at a college party. She wants nothing to do with Jacob but he is more than determined to win back her affections. The problem is that Jacob has a secret that he is scared to tell Sage because he does not want to lose her. Will Jacob tell Sage the truth? Can Sage open up and trust Jacob with her whole heart? This is one intense and heart warming second chance romance with a twist that you will not see coming.
I volunteered to read an advance copy of this book.
July 25, 2019
J. S. Cooper never fails to weave her way into my heart, bend and twist it to shreds, and then remake it into something beyong words. This was yet another of those masterpieces, and I devoured every word. I couldn't get enough of this spell-binding plot interlaced with compelling characters who have so much depth, and then sprinkled with the special magic and spice of the heart. It was utter perfection. Yet another fantastic example of why I absolutely adore her stories!! They are bundles of heartache, soul deep love, realistic drama, and wicked twists and turns along the way
In other words, they are my perfect addiction.
Meghan Kelly has graced this story with her marvelous story-telling talent which makes this book and it's beautiful characters come alive. Her brilliant creative touch has tattooed this story on my heart for all time. It will live with me forever, and I will cherish it's heart and soul for all time. Kelly knows how to captive and audience, and I am always willing to caught under her spell of auditory brilliance!!
In other words, they are my perfect addiction.
Meghan Kelly has graced this story with her marvelous story-telling talent which makes this book and it's beautiful characters come alive. Her brilliant creative touch has tattooed this story on my heart for all time. It will live with me forever, and I will cherish it's heart and soul for all time. Kelly knows how to captive and audience, and I am always willing to caught under her spell of auditory brilliance!!
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