Embrace

Evolve #2

by S.E. Hall

After the romantic gesture of the century, Evan Allen is now faced with no friends, ineligible to play ball... and too late to get the girl.

He's starting over alone and doesn't know quite how to proceed, until certain members of "The Crew" step in, taking him under their wing.

It doesn't take the ladies long to notice him either.

Sometimes life doesn't go as you had planned.

Sometimes... it goes even better.

Embrace it.

Evolve & Full Circle Series suggested reading order:
*Emerge
*Embrace
*Entangled
*Entice
*Sawyer Beckett's Baby Mama Drama Guide for Dummies
*Endure
*Sawyer Beckett's Guide for Tools Looking to Date My Daughter
*Entwined
*Embody (Full Circle Series/Spinoff from Evolve Series Book One)
*A Crew Christmas
*Elusive (Full Circle Series/Princess Presley Duet Book One)
*Exclusive (Full Circle Series/Princess Presley Duet Book Two)

Genres: New Adult, Romance, College, Contemporary Romance, Contemporary, College Romance, Sports

297 pages, Kindle Edition

First published September 25, 2013

About the author

S.E. Hall is the New York Times & USA Today bestselling author of the Evolve Series, the Full Circle Series/a spinoff of the Evolve Series, standalone contemporary romances Pretty Instinct, Pretty Remedy and Unstable, and her Smokin' Hot Shorts- Laid Over and Full Body Check, published in multiple countries and languages.

Hall has also co-written with authors Angela Graham, Erin Noelle, Hilary Storm and Ashley Suzanne.

S.E. Hall resides in Arkansas with her husband of 23 years, and together, they have four amazing daughters, ages 28, 23, 17 and 16, and three beautiful grandchildren. 

Stay connected with S.E. Hall:

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Newsletter: http://eepurl.com/7E-nP
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/S.E.HallAuth...
Twitter: https://twitter.com/Sehallauthor
Amazon: http://www.amazon.com/S.E.-Hall/e/B00...
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Instagram: https://instagram.com/Sehall_author/



**Professional Inquiries**
S.E. Hall is represented by SBR Media; any questions/interest regarding Hall's work(s) can be directed to Stephanie Phillips via email at stephanie@sbrmedia.com

Reviews

[*J* Too Many Books Too Little Time · Rating 4 out of 5]

WARNING: Contains spoilers if you haven't read Emerge!!!!



What a super sweet story that was. I'm really not sure why I waited so long to read this one. I guess I was afraid it would fall under the dreaded 2nd book syndrome.

Embrace picks up right where Emerge left off. Evan has brought out the big guns....transferring to Southern for Laney. He shows up on her doorstep only to find out that she's moved on and is in love with Dane.



Embrace was told in alternating POV between Evan and Laney...so we still get more of Laney and Dane! Yay!! It's all about Evan moving on from "loving" Laney...finding his own happiness and he and Laney getting back to being friends again. I'm not going to lie, when I found out who Evan's love interest was going to be....



But I misjudged her...shame on me! Actually I think she was mis-represented in Emerge. What can I say?!?!



I enjoyed Evan's story....he's definitely a sweetheart. But let's face it ....it's Dane that I love. He is



But then again I love the caveman, possessive type. And Laney's just so sassy and sarcastic.

Loved the epilogue and the sneak peek at Sawyer's story. Can't wait for him to find his other half.

This was a great continuation of the Evolve series. It was sweet but had a little bit of sexy too. Off to read more Dane and Laney!!!

[Jess-i-ca · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book was a multi POV of Laney, Evan, and Dane but its mainly Evan's book.

After the ending of Book 1, I was really worried about how this one would be...



I really love Evan. He's so sweet...He's like the perfect goody goody guy.....



Can't really say much without giving away the story but it was a cutesy story. I'll admit there were quite a few cheesy parts but I still enjoyed it.








Don't click on spoiler if you haven't read Book 1 or 2.

I will say this is who I kept picturing for Whitley....Lol


Oh and the pig part was cute....

[Lydia's Bookshelf · Rating 5 out of 5]

Blog Tour Stop:http://heabookshelf.blogspot.com/2013...

The perfect combination of sexy, sweet, and funny! S.E. Hall did it again!! I swear, this book was just as amazing as Emerge, if not better. I laughed out loud, swooned, and squirmed throughout the story line. The characters were once again, AMAZING! Seriously. The Crew was just...epic!!! Hilarious! I loved their interactions and chemistry!!! They just accepted, loved, and protected each other like one big, crazy family. I'm telling you, epic.

"Only a crazy woman can love you like crazy."

Embrace picked up the story line right where it left off in book one. So it's very safe to say, I was beyond anxious to see where the author would take these characters. Boy, was I NOT disappointed. Evan Allen was a true gentleman AND 100% hot and sexy! So, in other words, Evan was perfect. *sigh* I mean, on top of all the previously mentioned awesomeness, he was just SO attentive and caring, too!!! I swear, PERFECT.

"It's true what the say- if you look for the really freaking amazing in people, that's what you'll find."

Whitley... I saw so much of myself in her, that I was seriously blown away. I connected with her character immediately. In Emerge, she kind of got on my nerves, but I never really hated her. I mean, we really didn't get a lot of information on her, to begin with. But, after getting to know her here, it's clear as day, that she was simply misjudged... by everyone. My heart smiled seeing how Evan treated her. They were a perfect match...what they never knew they needed.

"You steal my breath away, pretty girl. I can't stop looking at you."

This book was so much more than just "Evan's story". We got to see all the amazing characters we've come to know and love, and join them in their respective journeys. Once again, we got multiple point of views! SQUEE!!! Have I mentioned before how much I love that!!!????? Because I totally do!!! It allows you as a reader to connect with the characters better and the general story line. So, mad props to the author!!! Oh, and FYI, Sawyer is hands down, one of the funniest characters EVER and I can't wait for his book!!! :)

So, okay... just in case you haven't noticed, I gotta tell you, I seriously loved this book. Eeeekk!! I highly recommend you read it!!

"...thank you, Evan, for choosing me and giving me everything I ever wanted."

[Tricia Santos · Rating 5 out of 5]

I love Evan Mitchell Allen SO FREAKING MUCH. My heart was breaking for him at the shocking ending of Emerge. I was wailing. I didn’t think I knew who I loved more, Dane or Evan, while actually reading the emotional rollercoaster that is Emerge. But, with that ending I knew I was whole-heartedly Team Evan. How could I not be? In Emerge, he was the sweet-talking, creative nicknaming, caring, sexy, gentleman who was always there for Laney no matter what. In Embrace, we get to see lots more of this man who gave up everything to try to win his girl back only to be too late *sobs*.

Embrace alternates between Evan, Laney, and Dane’s POVs. Yes, I said Dane. For all of you who are worried that because this is Evan’s book we don’t get to see any Dane and Laney, you are DEAD WRONG. Initially, I didn’t agree with the POV choices. I wanted it to be Evan, Laney, and Ev’s new girl. However, I know there are way too many Dane fans out there, and on the third read I accepted it and moved it to my favorites shelf. Evan gave up everything to be with Laney only to have it thrown back in his face *sniffle*, so Embrace is his journey of accepting that everything happens for a reason. He had been “in love” with his best friend for years, and now that’s gone, he has to find something (or someone). to make him smile every day. And the real kicker? He happens to become friends with Laney’s friends, which puts them in close proximity of each other. It’s hard to move on when the reason you’ve been kicked down is always near you.

Anyway, Ev is strong though. He goes through the motions. He lets Sawyer drag him around and try to cheer him up. (Sawyer is hysterical by the way, and he gets his book next. Which, I’m really looking forward to.) But, it’s not until he meets a certain someone that he finds the true reason he ended up at Southern. Now, I’m not going to tell you who it is actually. If I had known, I might have refused to read the book. Actually, I initially threw a fit to S.E. Hall once I figured out who she was pairing up with Evan. BUT, S.E. Hall proved her awesome, amazing, fanfreakingtastic writing skills to me because I was dying for them to get together after the first night they hang out. It’s. That. Good. The two of them were making me giggle. They were way too freaking cute. The buildup to them actually getting together was deliciously angsty. Not to mention funny. Since he’s a guy Ev went on a series of AWFUL but highly entertaining blind dates while in denial of his feelings for her. She grew on me fast. My initial opinion of her couldn’t have been more wrong. She was so sweet and bubbly, She didn’t have the perfect life, yet she was always smiling, humming, and most importantly, making Ev happy. She was everything my Evan deserved. His journey to healing wouldn’t have been complete without her.

Because it’s hard to write a review without spoiling who he ends up with or the majority of the plot, I’ll just gush about some of my favorite parts/aspects of Embrace, It’s Evan’s book. Insta-love. S.E. Hall was able to make me fall in love with someone I initially hated. And I ended up dying for them to get together. The Crew is such a fun group of people that I wish I could be a part of. There’s a nice Laney and Dane story in the background. Which leads to my name is in the book. This book evokes a wide-range of emotion. Everything from highly amusing to heart-warming. There were some unexpected events that took place that kept me on my toes.It’s a relatable, realistic story. Evan is so sweet.Evan is hot.Evan is good with words. Evan calls her “Hummingbird”. I just love Evan, obviously.

I was so happy with the way the story ended. I had no idea what to expect when I agreed to beta read for Embrace, but I can’t believe everything turned out so perfect and amazing for Ev. There was not a boring moment. This is a captivating, light-read about growing up and finding love. You need to be touched by the magic of this book! Besides, don’t you want to know who the girl is? I absolutely cannot wait for Sawyer’s book. It’s obvious that he has a troubled past and he is such a comical character that I want to know what goes on inside his head. The epilogue is in his POV and leaves a lot to be desired. Until then…

“Will it always be this good, Evan? I love you so much, everything feels perfect; surely it can’t stay like this forever.”
“Nope, it’ll get better.”

See full review here http://www.romanceaddictbookblog.com/...

8/18/22: Had the honor of beta reading for this book. You guys have no idea what you are in for... Full review to come out closer to release date over at Romance Addict Book Blog. Gahhh I didn't think it was possible for me to love Evan more than I already did after Emerge but I was DEAD WRONG. Can't wait till everyone else can read it. Well maybe I can haha I love Evan too much to share.

[Nancy❤The❤Bookaholic · Rating 4 out of 5]

~~4 EMBRACING-TO-BE-MY-PRINCE-CHARMING HEARTS~~

This book made me pick a team. Team Evan!!!!!!

Embrace picks up right where Emerge leaves off. Evan has given up everything, his scholarship, his friends, and his life back in Athens to move and be closer to his girl. Which he soon finds out is no longer his girl. Talk about a punch in the gut.



This book alternates from Evan, Laney, & Dane’s POV. When I saw that we get Dane’s POV, I was asking myself, isn't this Evan’s book? Why are we getting Dane’s POV in this?


Now at a new school, no girl, and no friend Evan tries to make the best of his situation. Seeing his girl with another man doesn't help though. I love it that Sawyer befriend him and tried to help him. He offers Evan a place to stay and tries to find him distractions. When Evan meets Whitley at first I was saying to myself…”No, not Whitley!!!” (because how she was in Emerge), but once you get to know her, she wasn't all that bad. She was actually really nice and misjudged. She became a good friend to Evan. They seemed to be in a similar situation. You find out that Whitley & Dane knew each other since they were kids just like Laney & Evan. And both were like two peas in a pod with their situation.



Evan tries to ignore the attraction he has for Whitley because he didn't want another friendship to get ruin if things didn't work out. But with them spending time together, their feelings for each other blossoms.



I think Evan & Whitley made a cute couple. He was sweet, caring, and big-hearted and you find out that Whitley is just as big-hearted and nice. Whitley & Laney actually becomes really good friend and Evan & Dane eventually get over the awkwardness between them. I’m glad they all worked out their differences and Evan was able to find the happiness that he well deserved.

[Coco.V]

💝 FREE on Amazon today (12/27/2017)! 💝

[Vanessa · Rating 5 out of 5]

Great follow-up to Emerge, full review to come with my tour stop on 10/1.

**FULL REVIEW**

“Seeing Laney in Algebra every week is gonna suck, and I’m not sure how long I’ll be able to treat her with cold indifference; it just doesn’t feel right. We were friends for so long before we were anything else, but I’m not sure yet if we can get it back there. Not having her in my life at all is foreign and hurts like hell, but I’m not sure I can pull off anything more than cordial distance right now, and the cordiality is sometimes a stretch.”

Evan Allen is having a hard time dealing with his new reality. Chasing the girl he loves has blown up in his face when his rash decision to change his entire life plan is pretty much rejected; Laney chose Dane. Laney loves Dane. Evan is now the one who has to start over, his heart broken, in a new school (where he will now have to see her regularly), with a new team (that he is benched for), and new friends.

Everyone has been cool with him so far, especially Sawyer; keeping Evan in drinks and women as much as he will allow in a feeble attempt to “get back in the saddle” so to speak. No sense in wallowing over what is obviously never going to happen. Evan goes through the motions, but never really lets himself go in order to fully find happiness again; it just hurts too much right now and everything is too confusing…and then he meets Whitley Thompson.



Whitley is the girl we all wanted to hate in Emerge. She hangs on Dane and Laney can’t stand her. Beautiful, blonde with sparkling blue eyes and a petite figure, Whitley is the complete opposite of Laney in all the ways that matter. She, too, is just trying to find her place. Evan knows that there is something different about her and is immediately drawn to her delicate smile, kind words and constant humming. Somehow, Whitley is exactly what Evan needs to move forward; problem is, he’s scared that she may just be a rebound…I mean who finds their “one” in the first girl they meet after the supposed “one” rips your heart out?

“I have a ton of fun with you. Everything does not go to shit when you show up, so don’t believe that. You’re beautiful and kind and I’ll hang with you anytime you want.”…My eyes bore into hers, never straying, as I let the gravity of it all sink in. Practically strangers, stoned, and yet we connected profoundly over the same moment in time—a random act of chasing a deflated balloon around a parking lot…We make no specific plans to hang out again, but something tells me we will. I have no idea what she’s thinking, I’m not even sure what I’m thinking, but I do fall asleep with a smile.”

This doesn’t go over with Laney too well…

Her best friend in the entire world not only wants nothing to do with her, but is now taking up with the one girl on campus that Laney cannot stand; threatened to take a bat to on their very first meeting. This cannot be good! But what right does she have to dictate who Evan spends his time with, and that does get Whitley off of Dane… (enter clever smirk here). Adjusting just isn’t easy when she knows she’s no longer the girl Evan “needs”, not that she can really complain anyway, she made her choice and is happy in that decision. Maybe, just maybe, Laney misjudged Whitley and will have to give her a chance.



Whitley does something to Evan that he never expected. In just her little ways, she slowly starts to heal him. He finds himself more and more drawn to her, and as much as he wants to just remain friends for fear of messing up yet another relationship, he cannot deny that she calls to him on a level deeper than that. Ever the romantic, Evan knows that if he’s going to make a move, it has to be the right one or he will end up right where he started…

“When the last note eases from her mouth, the crowd explodes around us. It was a moving performance, words unable to describe what it meant to know that it was for me. I step to the stage and offer her my hand, which she takes with a timid smile. Her small hand in mine, I help her down and wrap her in a hug. “You’re really good Whitley, that was amazing,” I exhale in her ear. “I’m glad you liked it. I sang it for you.” “It was perfect.” My cheek rubs against hers as I nod my head; I knew who she was singing to. Who knows, maybe she’s gonna be the one who saves me.”

We are all searching for that once-in-a-lifetime kind of love. Someone who completes the other half of our soul. Age has nothing to do with when your heart is ready and speaking from experience, the age old saying “when you know, you know” rings true. Loving someone and being in love with someone are totally different although sometimes it’s hard to differentiate the two. Learning the differences and experiencing both come in various forms. Thank you, S.E. Hall for showing the differences and that one can truly have both…it’s just about learning the differences.

“What I’ve always wanted. Someone to meet me halfway, to be the half of my team. A bubble of our own that no bursts through, where we’re equally important to one another, we both know it, we both trust it, putting it before all else. When I lean in to kiss her, she’s already up on her toes to grab it and give it back to me, with passion. When I walk in a room, she smiles like her day just got better, and my eyes seek and find her first in the crowd. Honestly, I don’t really ever compare the two, but I do realize something now. With Laney, I put her up on a pedestal, then spent all my time trying to get her to come down and see me. Whitley walked right up to me, out of anyone and everyone in the room, and asked me to sit beside her. She’s been right beside me, literally, ever since.”

Evan is just your All-American country boy. He is gentle and kind, a true gentleman. I loved him in Emerge and I am so glad he got his own story with Embrace. I love the multiple POV’s in this story and Hall again doesn’t disappoint with how everything plays out. The “crew” as a whole are a great group and I really cannot wait to see what happens, there are some very fine men in this series and deserve to be heard (hint hint) while still keeping up with all the people we have grown to love thus far. This series is one I will absolutely recommend as a light-hearted, lovely, coming of age, yet growing up (although the same, totally different) kind of story. There is just enough of the “hard” stuff to keep it from being “fluffy” and I love the little extras in the back stories that I have learned as the series has progressed.

Hall is wonderful storyteller and her tender scenes between family or friends is just as poignant as her steamy love scenes and chemistry between her couples. I laughed out loud more times than I can count and there were times when my eyes teared up so much I couldn’t see the page…yes, I’m an emotional reader; and this book gave me everything I wanted.

**4.5 True Country Gentleman Stars**

[Shelly · Rating 5 out of 5]

Check out the whole review on http://sexybookreviewsbyshelly.blogsp..., or on Facbook at

https://www.facebook.com/pages/Sexy-B...





I cannot stop boasting about this series and this author! S.E. Hall has yet again hit a grand slam!!! Embrace starts off where Emerge ended. Laney and Dane are together and happy, and Evan is miserable...oh, and at Southern full time now!! The "Crew" especially Sawyer, has taken a liking to him immediately. Saw is on a mission to get Evan's mind off Laney, and onto something or someone else. However, that someone he was hoping for wasn't Whitley!

Whitley is hated amongst "The Crew". From her childhood crush on Dane, to the war between her and "The Crew's" favorite little spitfire, Laney. What none of them know however is that she isn't really so bad if they ever really gave her a chance to get to know her. Evan, no matter the opinions of everyone else, did just that!

Whit and Even start out as friends, while he attempts to finally get past his romantic feelings for Laney and back to the loving friendship they have always shared. While dating, something he hasnt ever done, Evan grows closer to Whitley. However, he keeps himself from dating her because he is afraid of what happened between him and Laney could repeat itself with Whitley. But when you meet the love of your life, there is no stoping fate!!

I have to admit at first I was thrown that it was Whitley, Evan started hanging with. I like "The Crew" was not very fond of her in Emerge, but I love how S.E. changed my mind, and we got to truly understand the person hidden inside! I loved how "The Crew" finally took to her and accepted her into their fold! All the characters have developed so much, in this book, I can't wait for more!! I'm hoping maybe we get to see if anyone can finally get Sawyer, to see that monogamy really isn't so bad!!!

[Ivy · Rating 5 out of 5]

Evan gave up his scholarship and transferred to Southern to save his relationship to the girl he loved since childhood, to walk in on her and her new boyfriend. Which leaves him heartbroken, new on campus, where he knows no one and has no place to stay for the next few days.
But the Crew got his back and soon he befriends Whitley, who happens to be Laneys nemesis.

"Sometimes life doesn't go as you had planned. Sometimes it goes better."

Evan is such a good one! And his story is as sweet, sexy and witty as he is.
It's mostly his book but it's also so much more. We get some of Laneys and Danes POV, so there's some of their drama and relationship. I grew to liking her some more than I did - I still can't get over her for always being honest with Dane but never to Evan.

Though this starts off right where Emerge ended it's not as angsty and emotionally overwhelming as the story, where innocent Laney was kept away from her High School sweetheart by her snaky best friend and chose new love without telling him. That one evolved to a love triangle I loved with a guy I loved, while cheering for the other and hating the girl.

In Emerge Evan was my most perfect book boyfriend ever and I wished him the happiest of all endings. And in Embrace i enjoyed him getting there, it's so fun watching him dating his way through campus. Him getting over Laney and finding his own Happy Ever After was so good. I totally loved the story, how he evolves to the happy and fun person he is while still being the gentleman he is. And he's a hot one.

Whitley being lovely but proving she can kick ass if needed, is really a good match.

I'm really into this series. It's so entertaining, thanks to the crew.
Now I'm excited for Sawyer and his story.

[Estefany · Rating 4 out of 5]

Me gusto la historia de Evan y Whit aunque no tanto las partes de Laney casi me estaba cayendo mal. Veremos las historias de los siguientes personajes

[Kelli Spear · Rating 4 out of 5]

You may remember that I adored the first book in this series, Emerge. So I was beyond thrilled that I would be participating in this blog tour. Evan was my choice from the first book and I was absolutely heartbroken for him. Thankfully, S.E. Hall knew we all needed his HEA and she wrote it!

Embrace picks up right where Emerge left us. Evan had just had his poor heart stomped on after giving up his football scholarship to transfer schools to be with Laney. Sad face. Thankfully my other favorite guy, Sawyer, has his back.

I admit to being a bit excited when I read the Table of Contents. I know everyone was swooning over Dane, but I was one of few who didn't fall madly in love with him. So when it looked like there might be trouble between Laney and him, I may or may not have smiled and jumped for joy a little. But don't worry, Kendrickers, all is well in paradise. From early on, it's clear who Evan will end up with. And I can't deny that I was pretty pissed at first. I despised this person (and if you've read the first book, I'm sure you can guess who I mean) in Emerge and did NOT want her around my guy. AT ALL. Call me judgmental, but hey, it is what it is. However, I grew to love her - more than Laney! It's crazy, I know, but she's sweet and I share a lot of traits with her. Evan and mystery girl's relationship was downright adorable but it took awhile to develop. This was a nice change from the typical "insta-love" stories that are swamping NA these days.

And now for my absolute FAVORITE thing about Embrace - SAWYER. Yep. I've completely switched teams. I'm a sucker for those bad boy, player types and he fits that mold. Plus, he's hot and hilarious. The epilogue made me so happy! I can't wait for the next book!

Overall, I thought Embrace was a pretty good follow-up to Emerge. Some parts I wasn't a fan of, I felt there was maybe too much from Laney's and Dane's points of view when I'd liked to have had more focus on Evan, perhaps even a few chapters into the head of mystery girl. I realize that Laney and Dane had more things going on, but when their chapters broke in, it was almost awkward at times, since they weren't always around Evan. And it also felt as if Evan's character had changed slightly. Not in any crazy or huge way, but there was just something I felt that had shifted. He is still absolutely adorable and gorgeous, though, and definitely deserved the happiness he received. I was happy that this book wasn't as emotional as Emerge. I felt it was all-around a happy book, even though Evan was still miserable in the beginning.

I'll leave you with one of my favorite quotes, which came from an unexpected source:

"It's so you never lose your way again."

[Yvette ~ Nose Stuck in a Book · Rating 5 out of 5]

I’ve never been a huge fan of love triangles, mostly because the constant back-and-forth between the characters involved stresses me out, but also because someone inevitably gets hurt. Even though I thoroughly enjoyed the book, reading S.E. Hall’s Emerge (Evolve Series #1) was particularly nerve-racking because protagonist Laney Walker was caught in the middle of two near-perfect guys, Dane Kendrick and Evan Allen. If there was ever a character that got the raw end of the real, it would be Evan, a.k.a. the odd man out, a.k.a. one of the sweetest and most romantic fictional heroes ever to be imagined. Luckily, Evan gets another chance at happiness in book two of the Evolve Series, Embrace, with an unexpected new love interest.

I was resolutely Team Evan while reading Emerge, so I was happy to spend more time getting to know him. While the love triangle may have been resolved, the aftereffects are still resonating with the trio. Embrace is about Evan reevaluating his relationship with Laney and figuring out how to move on with Laney being a constant presence in his life. I loved the multi-narrator format, which interwove Laney and Dane’s narratives with Evan’s story. S.E. Hall is as comfortable writing from a male perspective as she is writing a female point-of-view, voicing both the romantic hero and unabashed womanizer with the same level of genuineness and conviction.

As much as I love the romantic connections between the different couples, it’s the friendships between the core group of characters fondly referred to as “the Crew” that’s the heart of the series. There’s a certain level of comfort and familiarity with all of the characters and, as a reader, I enjoyed getting drawn in to the endlessly entertaining and close-knit pack of friends. Each character is memorable in his/her way, with distinct personalities that energize the narrative. Without the fierce loyalty and camaraderie between the Crew, the story wouldn't be the same, because the characters are such a vital part of each other’s lives.

Embrace is my favorite type of book – a good amount of romance, and only mild amount of angst. It seems like all the books I’ve read lately have been incredibly intense and gut-wrenching, so it was refreshing to read a story that was charming and emotionally satisfying, without being overwhelming. Aside from a bit of drama every now and then, Embrace is a light-hearted, fun, and shamelessly sweet romance. The absolute best part of the book, though, was reading Sawyer’s epilogue. I had plenty of reasons to smile while reading Embrace, but I was absolutely ecstatic by the prospect of Sawyer getting his own book and being able to spend more time with these characters in the third book in the Evolve series.

[Bella · Rating 4 out of 5]

3.5 wonderful stars for Embrace by SE Hall.

I always struggle with how many stars to give a book. I really enjoyed this book and I do recommend it to anyone that read Emerge AND I can't wait for the next book. Release day is not soon enough for me to read Sawyer's story.

In Emerge we got this love triangle between Laney and Evan and Dane.

In Embrace, the focus shifts to Evan's story. And Whitley's story. So we get 4 POV's: Evan, Whitley, Dane and Laney.

Evan. He's just about perfect. My heart breaks for him in the beginning as he struggles with the changes he made to be closer to Laney. He is at a new school, no friends, no girl, no football. So he tries his best to move on.

Laney's friends adopt Evan. Which is sort of weird. And Evan tries to get past his heartbreak. But seeing Laney with Dane really sucks for him.

Whitley. In the first book, she is the girl you love to hate. But in Embrace, she becomes the person that helps Evan heal.

What I liked:
- We got to see how Dane and Laney are doing. There is some resolution with Laney's mom and some of Dane's baggage is revealed too.
- Evan is such a romantic. He's pretty perfect...


What I didn't like:
- Dealing with 4 POV and what's happening with all of those characters made the book drag a bit. I'm not quite sure what I would cut out, but the book seemed long.
- Whitley. She went from the girl that is a nasty thorn in everyone's side to this misunderstood wonderful person. My feelings towards her didn't change as quickly as the character's opinions of her in the book. I was programmed to hate her, and I couldn't drop it as quickly as Laney did.
- Evan. I need some flaws. He struggles with his feelings towards Whitley for a little while, but once he accepts his feelings, there is way too much perfection in his thoughts and how he treats women in general. I don't know any 18/19 year old guys that are this perfect. Makes him a bit unrealistic to me.

Bottom line, this is a great series. I'm so happy that Laney is happy with Dane and Evan finds some happiness too. And their friendship is back on solid ground.

Can't wait for Sawyer's story!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

[Jodie Ellis · Rating 5 out of 5]

SERIOUSLY, S.E. Hall knows how to write a story that completely sucks me in! If possible, I loved Embrace more than Emerge. Wow.

After the end of Emerge left me in a fit of emotions, I was so happy to be able to see these characters again and see where life was going to take them.

Evan Allen is the total guy next door. Sweet, handsome, and absolutely charming. I was thrilled to read more of his story and I was not disappointed. I fell in love with him all over again in Embrace.

"The hopeless romantic meets Mr. Tenderheart."

Even though this book was supposed to be about Evan, I found myself falling in love with Sawyer too. Probably one of my favorite supporting characters in a book, EVER. He delivered laugh out loud one liners and his humor brought comedic relief to some tough situations. I want to read more about him!!!

Also, I would like to add that Evan Allen can build me a fort in the living room any day! ;)

I HIGHLY recommend this book. It was an AMAZING continuation of the Evolve series.

"I laugh, jealous of her resiliency, "definitely too cute," I wink. "That settles it. We are now the opposite of underdogs. We are-" I've almost made the connection when she shout giggles it for me. "We're overcats!"

"...he wants to hear what's inside me, because he wants to live there too."

"When Sawyer says 'tag team,' you ask for clarification. We could be talking about anything at this point."

"Only a crazy woman can love you like crazy."

"It's true what they say- if you look for the really freaking amazing in people, that's what you'll find."

[ReadingBetweenTheLines · Rating 5 out of 5]

I am in love with this author. I didn't think that Evan could get any more amazing. BOY WAS I WRONG!

In Emerge, the first book in the series, Evan is head over heals for his childhood best friend Laney. They start dating while still in high school. During their freshman year of college, when the two are separated, Laney finds herself in a pickle which ultimately puts Evan in the back seat with hurt feelings and a broken heart.

Meeting a new friend after having his heart handed back to him on a silver platter, Evan starts the dating game with the help of Sawyer. We should have seen this one coming from the start. Sawyer is a bit of a man whore and the girls he's hooking Evan up with are not really Evan's speed.

Thankfully, Whitley, the snotty girl we all loved to hate from Emerge comes to the rescue building an immediate bond with our dear sweet Evan.

One thing leads to another and this bond of friendship between Evan and Whitley turns to something more powerful.

It looks like my sweet adorable loving Evan might get his second chance after all.

Embrace was AMAZING! I have been pimping this book out to all my friends. S.E. Hall came through with an amazing 2nd novel. As much as I loved Emerge and couldn't help but go on and on about it, Embrace is my new favorite.

Kudos to the author and I can't wait to read Sawyers Story!!!

[Lori · Rating 5 out of 5]

I loved Embrace!!! I love how you expanded on all the relationships and I still can't get over Whitley!!! I still need more Dane, but can't wait to hear more on Sawyer!!!! Great job and can't wait for the next book!!!

[SammiesBookBlog · Rating 5 out of 5]

Embrace picks up where Emerge left off. We are taken on yet another intense roller coaster of emotions. Highs and lows. We get to witness many of the characters we love grow up in front of us. Learn valuable life lessons. We get to see Evan's story and what he see's and feels. And the ride is pretty amusing. Embrace is possibly even better than Emerge. We get our favorite characters and every day life situations thrown into the mix, you actually feel like this group is part of your friends. Stefani knows how to write a good book and she captures each and every store perfectly, it's Evan's story. But we still get to see Laney, Dane, Sawyer, Tate, etc. And we meet some new friends along the ride and we meet some new enemies and trials and tribulations they must all try and over come. It was truly an amazing book and I am proud of Stefani and proud of these characters, that is pretty much all I can give away, but I promise, it's even better than Emerge!
Will Evan find his happiness? Can the gang over come anything?
Find out in Embrace! <3.


Quotes I loved:

“I just kinda need to talk. And,” I take a deep breath, “I wanted it to be to you.”

"I’m really here. I was hoping you’d want me, or need me, or whatever,”

"She doesn’t slug people. Well, not often. It’s a term,”

“I don’t know who you are, or what you did, but you’ve got five seconds to get the hell out of here or you’re gonna have bigger problems that your a$$ in that outfit.”

"I’m lady enough not to show my a$$ at a funeral, but woman enough to kick yours if you don’t back off my friends."

“Evan’s a romantic,” “always has been. No hit it and quit it for that one,” “big softie he is. He wants to hear music and see stars when she walks in a room. Don’t ya Ev?”

"He jumped that fence and pushed people out of his way, no one let him do anything. I’m surprised he hasn’t landed LifeFlight in the damn parking lot to whisk her to a specialist by now."

“Right about now, I’m thinking my sign is Proceed with Caution.”

“I have decided there are no normal girls on this campus. I can’t even imagine what would be wrong with the next one. I have had my fortune told by the crypt keeper, fed another man’s fetus and I’m pretty sure gone out with a dude! I said no!”

“Do you know anything you’re not telling me? Like, she’s transsexual, pregnant, into voodoo, drinks blood, is married, has three nipples or anything else that might strike you as odd?”

“Only a crazy woman can love you like crazy.”

“You worry too much sweet girl. I love that you wanna know my secrets, know me. Ask me anything you want, anytime.”

“S*** Laney, should we stop at the next store and check the back of milk cartons? I know my boy, he wouldn’t ever ignore you.”

“Then as I was saying, you have been missing all day. I have been to see my mother after years and years of nothing, seriously begun to question Mr. Disney’s mindset, been flown across the country in the blink of an eye by that Neanderthal in there and walked up to a woman trying to kick your ass. Do not say it again, I’m not leaving. I love you, therefore, you bossy, stubborn man, I. Am. With. You.”

“believe in me, trust me to love you no matter what, like I do you. I gave it all to you, everything I am and will be, leaving behind what I was. I’m asking you to do the same.”

“you are the best thing about me. The only thing in the whole world more beautiful than you is my love for you.”

“I’ve kinda been floating since you called me your girlfriend. There’s not much that wouldn’t make me happy right now.”

“Today has been the greatest day of my life,” “thank you Evan, for choosing me, and giving me everything I ever wanted.”

“I am the luckiest man in the world that no one has ever loved you like I have, that I never have to think about that. When we’re eighty, I will still be the only man who has ever been inside your sweet body, and I realize how amazing that is. And if I’d known you were on your way to me, I would have waited for you. If I could take it back, I would. But I can’t, so you tell me something I can do to make it better.”

“F*** that, I told her, just because the Ferris wheel breaks they don’t shut down the whole carnival, if you know what I mean.”

“and I’m sorry. I’d trust you with my life, which coincidentally, she is.”

“I’m tired, put your man to bed.”

[Tabby · Rating 5 out of 5]

Embrace picks up right where Emerge left off. Evan just gave up everything to be with Laney only to have his dreams and heart ripped to shreds. Leaving him stuck at a new school, with no friends, no football and no Laney.

Since she was a little girl, I showed her how a man should treat a woman as special as her. So he's getting a real lady... You're welcome, asshole.- Evan

Fuck this. Disney movies suck anyway- bring on a porno! -Evan

Embrace is about realizing that first loves might not be true love and forever love may be just beyond a broken heart. Evan must learn to put the pieces of his heart back together, good thing that he has someone ready and willing to help him do that...if he would just let her. He starts to think and feel things that he didn't think he could after Laney, and that scared him. So, like any man he starts pushing the person away who is scaring him with these thoughts and feelings.

"I don't want to be an underdog anymore, do you?...That settles it. We are now opposites of underdogs. We are--We're overcats!" -Evan and Whitley

Embrace had other storylines going on in it as well. Of course Laney was struggling just as Evan was. They were thrown back together, and not speaking, when deep down they both wanted the other in their lives. They had to learn how to juggle who they are now, yet try to get back some of what they had in the past. It was a delicate balance, because at times the green-eyed monster reared it's ugly head and they had to fight against it. We also got to learn about Laney's mother and got more information about why she left and how she currently was. Turns out Dane does have skeletons in the closet, and they come to light in Embrace.

"Do not say it again; I'm not leaving. I love you, therefore, you bossy, stubborn man, I. Am. With. You" Laney

The whole crew is back in Embrace! Sawyer, Zack, Bennett and Tate we get more of them all! A shocking surprise addition to that list is Whitley. I admit I hated her in Emerge but I have absolutely no idea why, she really never did anything wrong to be hated. Yes, she was clingy when it came to Dane, but we get some information to why she was that way with him. When Whitley first enters Evan's life I admit I was cussing under my breath thinking she was up to something, but I was so wrong. Whitley is just like any other girl, she gets lonely, she wants to love and be loved and she has problems just like all of us. I soon find myself rooting for Whitley, and wanting her to have all the happiness imaginable. Sawyer where do I start with him. He is back to his usual shenanigans but there is something so much deeper to him, he too has secrets. He lets them in on some of them but I have a feeling in the next installment of the Evolve Series that we get to know a lot more about him.

“Only a crazy woman can love you like crazy. - Whitley

S.E Hall had me drawn in from the very beginning of Embrace. I was hooked instantly. After the months of waiting for Embrace to come out I had a lot of time to sit and think about what might happen in this book, and let me tell you, Oh how I was wrong! She threw some twists in there that I did not even see coming. Yes, I admit I laughed out loud quite a few times while reading this, it is full of catchy one liners and some quick witted remarks. There is sexual chemistry that almost overheated my Kindle, passion that seeps out of every page. Not to mention I am still firmly on Team Dane. Yes, I admit Evan is a pure, true romantic, but he doesn't in my opinion hold a candle to my Dane, maybe I am a bit biased. However, I did say, "I never get flowers!", multiple times while reading this. That Evan sure can melt a heart. I am so impatiently waiting the next book in the series!

Will Evan and Laney rekindle their friendship? Will Laney and Dane survive when his secret comes out? Can enemies in the past be friends? Will Evan get his happily ever after? Those are answers you are going to just have to find out for yourself by reading Embrace.

[Maria Lynn · Rating 5 out of 5]

I really cannot praise this series enough! S.E. Hall is so unbelievably talented. Her writing style and ability to construct a perfectly detailed, even paced, captivating story is just incredible. I can honestly say that in both of my experiences with her books I had a hard time parting once they were over. I don't care if this series ends up being 50 books long, I'm in it for the long haul, completely committed! So please, keep 'em coming! It's just so easy to get completely wrapped up in her stories and lose track of time. I was absolutely blown away by Emerge and expected only greatness the second time around. Needless to say, she nailed it!

Embrace picks up where Emerge left off. Evan is left to pick up the pieces of his broken heart after he finds out the love of his life has moved on. He's given up his scholarship and relocated to a new school with no place to live and no friends, all for Laney, who was too busy canoodling with her new beau to worry about the damage she was causing to poor unsuspecting Evan.

First let me just say, what the hell is going on with Laney in this book?? I was actually on her side in Emerge and could kinda sympathize with her dilemma (two incredibly hot guys vying for her affection), especially b/c she never intentionally wanted to cause either of them any pain or heartache. She was literally torn between two amazing guys who would give her anything and everything her heart desired, it's a decision any girl would have a tough time making. But in Embrace I just wanted to punch her in the face!! She was super snotty and obnoxious, plus ridiculously selfish wanting to cry over her lost friendship with Evan to her new boyfriend Dane. Seriously?! Wake the hell up, girl. I was just completely put off by her rude and childish behavior and was seriously glad when the story shifted almost entirely over to Evan.

Whereas I was initially swooning over Dane, this time around his over abundance of money and resources just didn't impress me. I'm definitely over his wealth and sexy bad boy persona. I've officially given my heart to country boy Evan with his southern charm and boy next door looks. He is an absolute sweetheart, simply trying to adjust the best he possibly can in his new situation after his heart has been stomped on. It's not easy for him to be so close to Laney now that she's given her heart to someone else, and to have to witness it on an almost daily basis is just plain torture. But he's a trooper, and fully emerges himself into the recovery process…dating and all.

Poor misunderstood Whitley! I'm not going to lie, I couldn't stand her based on the one sided version we were introduced to in Emerge. In Embrace however, we get to see who she really is. And she is absolutely precious!! Whitley puts up with a lot and doesn't say much about it. She has such an incredibly big heart and the best of intentions, truly selfless. She's the kind of friend you can only hope you'd be lucky enough to find in your lifetime. I saw the sparks flying from the very beginning and knew immediately who's side I was on. Team Whitan for the win! Yea I definitely just made that up.

I hadn't read the synopsis ahead of time b/c, to be completely honest, Emerge was AMAZING, so I just knew Embrace was going to knock my socks off. I was pleasantly surprised with the direction this story went in and I'm so glad Evan got his own book. He deserves for his story to be told and to find his own happily ever after, especially after the way Laney screwed him over. (Not a fan of Laney anymore, can you tell??) I'm looking forward to the next installment…and Sawyer of course. I can't wait for his story! As always (in my 2 book experience with Ms. Hall) the character development was excellent, the story flowed perfectly and the witty banter/humor had me laughing out loud at times. At this point, it doesn't even matter what she writes b/c I'll be all over it. So yes I HIGHLY recommend this series!

[Carrie Richardson-horton · Rating 5 out of 5]

I had the honor of being a beta for Embrace! I knew going into this book that it was going to be amazing! S.E.Hall you did it again lady! You took my breath away. I didn't think it was possible to love a book as much as I did Emerge, but I was wrong.

Embrace starts off exactly where Emerge ends. Evan heartbroken and trying to pick up the pieces after Laney picked Dane over him, and broke his heart. Let me say I'm a Team Dane girl but I love and adore Evan so much. Evan is the guy every girl dreams of. He's the guy that I hope my daughters meet just like him one day! He's HOT of course but he's the best BB you could ask for next to Dane. I LOVE him. My heart hurt bad for him. I wanted to reach in my kindle and hug him and hold him so tight!


Evan is just going through the motions when he meets Whitley. He is trying to figure out how he will get through each day seeing Laney and it not crush his heart. Now I will say Whitley was not the obvious choice at first! I was thinking oh no please not her! After we get to know the real Whitley we begin to see why Evan is slowly falling for her. She helps him heal and shows him its ok to give your whole heart to someone again.

Sawyer OMG just when you think you love Dane and Evan we get Mr.HOT pants Sawyer <-----yes I said HOT pants!! I love him! Sawyer takes Evan under his wing and becomes a friend to Evan when he needs it most. He helps Evan through one of the worst times of his life! Not only is he HOT, a great friend but he is hilarious! He had me laughing out loud more than once!

As we get further into the book we see Evan and Whitley's relationship continue to grow. Evan puts up a few walls though. Dating is new to him. It is something he only knows with Laney. Will Whitley have the patience to wait for Evan? Will Evan finally get over Laney and let her go? Please read Embrace and find out! It is an amazing story of heartbreak, second chances, friendship, and getting through some of the toughest times of their lives!

Now don't think I forgot about my man Dane <------ remember he knocked my socks off and panties in Emerge! We get to see how his and Laney's story evolves and I love the alternate POV's. I always love getting to see what everyone is thinking. Dane didn't disappoint in Embrace! He's just as hot as ever and I loved reading about him and Laney being together. We get to see Laney go through some hard times too. Evan is and always was a huge part of her life so we get to see how she handles that.

Some of my highlights

"A red balloon. I can't believe that's what you picked. Her eyes water a bit and she looks at me thoughtfully and I smile. "I love it."


You are the fire, my intensity, my must have, my awakening," I say sincerely. "You're the lap I always want to cuddle in, the lips I want to kiss, the mind I want to challenge, the laugh I want to draw out. Okay?" <------ tears were running down my face! Loved every word!

"Did you ever love me? Did you ever mean it? <----- omg that poor sweet baby!! That tugged my heart!

"Well, you don't have a girlfriend, and because Jesus loves me, neither do I, so I figure we'll hit K together. Pick up a few honeys for the night, whatever." <--LOL! I bet you can guess who said that! Love him!

There are so many more highlights.I loved Embrace from start to finish! I give it 5 HUGE bright glittery stars!! It is a must read. S.E.Hall you amaze me everyday! Thank you for letting me be a tiny part of all this. I can't wait for more Dane and Laney, and Sawyer! I love this crew! Thank you for this amazing series. Now go read this and love it as much as I do!

[Kim · Rating 5 out of 5]

4.5 stars

Do not read if you have not read Emerge as this review contains spoilers for the first book.

Maybe your true self only thrives in the accompaniment of the one made to bring it out in you.

This book begins right after the dramatic conclusion of Emerge. Evan is angry, lost and heartbroken since Laney chose Dane. He gave up his scholarship and life to move to win Laney back and lost.

As Evan begins making friends, he and Laney have to try to get past the hurt to regain their friendship but it is not a quick or easy process. And along the way Even meets a girl who just seems to fit with him, even if she is an unlikely choice. I have to say I would have never guessed who he would develop a connection with. But their pasts have similarities and they surprisingly just kind of click.

"I don't want to be an underdog anymore, do you?...That settles it. We are now opposites of underdogs. We are--We're overcats!"

I loved Evan in the first book and continued to do so throughout this one. Evan is a good guy who has been devastated. But he really just wants to love and be loved. He tries to date and move on. But he finds he is really attracted to one girl, but they have become friends, and he does not want to go down that road again. But she is supportive, fun, sweet, and always there for him. I was surprised how much I really liked her. They really did have a connection, an understanding of each other, and complimenting personalities. But Evan is unsure of what would be worse...not making a move or making one and being rejected again.

"Well, you bring out the best in me."
"Right back atcha, pretty girl."

Will he take a chance on love again or let her slip through his fingers?

It is a story of moving on, second chances, and healing. It was heartbreaking, sweet, romantic, and inspiring. But this is not just Evan's story. We also get more with Laney and Dane's story as well. They still have some challenges to face together. I really do like them as a couple. Sawyer, in all his glory, is also a big part of this book. And Tate, Zach, Bennett, Avery, Kirby, and Parker are all involved as well. I really love this crew of characters. The stories are about the couples, but also about their friendships. They are humorous, protective, and provide unwavering support. I cannot wait for Sawyer's story. He totally cracks me up, and he has a big heart even though he hides it under a foul-mouthed playboy exterior.

"One of these days some girl's gonna snag ya and knock ya on your ass. This way, you'll be ready."
"You start drinking without me? No woman will ever tame me, or send me on f***ing errands or tampon runs and bulls***. That chick doesn't exist. It's different doing it for Gidge, she's my buddy."

We get a little glimpse of his ongoing story at the end of this book and I am already intrigued.

Thanks to SE Hall for providing me with and ARC in exchange for an honest review. Will be posted at Reviews by Tammy and Kim.

[Marianna · Rating 5 out of 5]

View this and other reviews at A Lust For Reading. I received an ARC in exchange for my honest review.

At the end of Emerge, Evan had his heart shattered into a million pieces. I have to say that I was team Dane all the way, but I hated seeing Evan hurt. He's a sweet, handsome, true Southern gentleman and I really wanted to see him get his happily ever after.

Embrace begins right where we left off. Evan is not only heartbroken, but understandably angry and bitter. However, the last person I expected him to connect with was the one person I hated: Whitley. I seriously had a WTF moment and at 15% into the book I was very unhappy about Evan and Whitley being friends.

Do you know what one of the marks of a great author is? A great author has the ability to take a character you despise and make you love them by the end of the book. At about the halfway point I actually liked Whitley and was happy they were friends. By the end I was all "Whitely + Evan = True Love Forever!"

"I want you so bad, pretty girl. I want to love you," I wrap my arms around her waist, "I want to take care of you. I want to hold you. I want to be with you every chance I get."

The majority of Embrace is told from Evan's point of view, which I really enjoyed. You get to witness his transformation from a lost, broken boy to a strong young man and it was quite the journey. I loved reading his sweet romantic side. Plus being inside the head of a 19 year old guy is seriously hilarious at times.

I've taken nice guy and turned him into pussbag. My dick hates me - he told me so - and I'm all but ready for tampons and a training bra.

We also get a little bit from both Laney's and Dane's point of view as Laney struggles with her broken friendship with Evan and his closeness with her nemesis. Laney and Dane also have their own demons to still overcome and it was good see them get through it.

As much as I loved all of the aforementioned characters, there is one more that I love above all the rest. And while he seemingly had small parts in the story, Sawyer just has a way of steeling the show. We end on Sawyer which I can only hope means that book 3 will be his story.

To say that I highly recommend the Evolve series is quite an understatement. If you enjoy the New Adult Romance or Contemporary Romance genres, these books are an absolute must read. They will make you laugh, make you ache, make you smile and make you cry. And you will love every single second of it.

I gotta say - women look real nice is dresses, bikinis or of course less, but when a little blonde is on her hands and knees, her tank top gapping down in the front, perky ass up in the air, her face smeared with mud, AND she's holding out a cup of worms she dug for you... This is the stuff country boys have dreams about.

[Jessica Adams · Rating 5 out of 5]

****RECEIVED ARC FOR HONEST REVIEW****

S.E. Hall does it again! If you thought the story couldn't get any better hold on to your hats. At the end of Emerge I was left with my heart crushed for Evan, but so happy for Dane and Laney. I wasn't sure what to expect, all I knew was Evan deserved his happy ending. I am not going to tell you if that happens, where would the fun in that be?
Evan has two choices, he can either move on, forget all about Laney and try to be on his own or he can try to rebuild a friendship that was been there his whole life and let Laney back in. At first I really thought he was going to drink his life away, but "the crew" took him in and made sure he was ok. Your heart breaks a little more for him the first few chapters, but when he meets Whitley will everything change? Will he realize what he had with Laney wasn't real reach for the moon love and find someone who can truly be his other half and return the love he has to offer?
"Maybe your true self only thrives in the accompaniment of the one made to bring it out in you" Evan
In Emerge, Whitely was stuck up and had it out for Laney. I couldn't stand her! But, in Embrace we meet the real Whitley. The fun, easy going girl with a big heart who isn't afraid to tell you like it is when you mess with her friends.
"You want me to show you why they call me Slugger now? And I don't play softball...feel me?" Whitley
I'm not gonna lie at first I thought she was up to go good, but I really fell in love with this character. As the story progresses we see Whitley open her shell a little more and she does everything she can to help Evan...even if it means being the rescue on a date when she wants to be the one on the date with him.
Will Evan and Whitley be able to "embrace" their lives and take control without the ones who they thought would always be there? Will they both get their happy ever after?
"You know, when things seem too good to be true, it's usually because they are..." Evan
Laney and Dane are in the book, but not as big of characters. DON'T let this deter you. This is Evan's story after all. When they do appear Laney is still her feisty self and Dane is ever the over protector. I love it! They still have the most loving relationship, but they do have to work through their past and some demons/skeletons.
"Do not say it again; I'm not leaving. I love you, therefore, you bossy, stubborn man, I. Am. With. You" Laney
Sawyer and Zach's characters develop a little more too. They are still the players and chasing girls. And of course, Sawyer still doesn't have a filter, but who cares he is HOT! These boys will do anything to help Laney, they really step up their game and are there for Evan when she can't be. I loved reading the boys bantering.
We are left hanging in the epilogue and if I didn't already LOVE Sawyer I sure do now and my heart goes out to him. I can't wait to read his book. Hurry up S.E. Hall :) Hopefully we see more of our favorite couples too.

[Maureen Mayer · Rating 5 out of 5]

I was lucky enough to receive an ARC of Embrace by S.E. Hall, and I'm finding it hard to put into words how I feel about the book because. . .IT WAS JUST THAT GOOD!

I really enjoyed reading the first book in the Evolve Series, Emerge, where we first meet all of the characters. Laney is an athletic, southern tomboy with a quick wit that comes in handy when deflecting others and keeping her guard up. Laney and Evan have been friends for years, but things change between them their senior year of high school when they admit their feelings for one another. When the time comes for them to leave for college, they are forced to go their separate ways. . .something they have never had to face before. Some say distance makes the heart grow fonder, but in this case, Laney's heart grows fonder for another. When Dane enters her life, the chemistry in undeniable, and he helps her break out of her shell, allowing her to open up to him in ways she never imagined.

Now, let me just say that throughout Emerge, I was Team Evan all the way. . .after reading Embrace, my feelings were reaffirmed!

Poor Evan. After transferring schools and giving up a scholarship, he shows up at Georgia Southern University hoping to make things work out with Laney. What he wasn't expecting was to get slapped in the face with Laney's unreciprocated feelings. Sawyer (oh how I love Sawyer!) takes Evan under his wing and tries to help him move on from Laney, but it proves to be difficult when Laney and Dane flaunt their relationship in front of him. Laney, too, is finding it difficult to remain friends with Evan when they are barely on speaking terms. When the least likely of characters reappears, quickly befriending Evan, the rift between Laney and Evan threatens to grow. Will Evan continue to pine after Laney or will he find that special someone to pick up the pieces of his tattered heart?

The whole Crew returns for the second installment of the Evolve Series, and you will be left in tears of laughter, heartache and joy. S.E. Hall has quickly become one of my favorite authors, with her relatable characters, beautiful style of writing and sarcastic sense of humor. I absolutely loved this book and highly recommend it! (Be sure to pick up a copy of Emerge before you read Embrace!)

[Rebecca · Rating 5 out of 5]

NO SPOILERS

I am absolutely, positively, 100% percent, in love with this series and the group of characters that S.E. Hall has brought to life!! I adored the first book and had no idea how I would respond the second book. She tied the events and characters in book #1 so amazingly well with book #2. While this book is told from multiple POVs, it flows so well and is so easy to follow. It is not often that an author can make me completely turn around my opinion of one character in just book.

I admit that I was not a very big Evan fan in the first book. I thought he was immature and a complete moron for leaving Laney unattended and vulnerable. Wow...how my feelings for him changed during this book! By the end, I adored him and wanted nothing but a happy ending. Whitley was one of the most likable characters I have read about in a while. She was adorable but had just enough insecurities to make her endearing without being annoying. Then, there is my very favorite character in this series...Sawyer! I am dying for his book! I haven't been this invested in a secondary character since Adrian in Vampire Academy/Bloodlines. Sawyer is hilarious, loyal, and has shown a smidgen of vulnerability. I know there is a shattered heart just waiting to mended.

I am counting down the days to book #3 in this series!

I love to make her laugh, that sound is my Zen...

"The only thing in the whole world more beautiful than you is my love for you."

It's the only, and probably last time, I have ever seen Sawyer Beckett speechless.

[Brandy Lynn · Rating 5 out of 5]

I was nipping at the bud for Embrace, Evan’s story. Let’s just say that last line of Emerge had me in tears. Evan loved Laney and even though he pissed me off at times throughout Emerge he still had a special place in my heart. So what does Evan do….He up and moves to be closer to what he thinks is the girl for him, only to find out that Laney has moved on with Dane….

Hmm, this is where things get interesting! Evan moves leaving behind his football team, friends, and has no girl. Now Evan has to find his place and it isn’t with Laney anymore. I think as the realization hits Evan that Laney truly does love Dane he starts to move forward with life learning to adjust to his surroundings….new friends, new team, and lots of girls! Everything happens for a reason and Evan soon finds that out when Whitley stumbles into his life.

Now, I have to be honest I did NOT like Whitley in Emerge…I thought she was clingy and always trying to get Dane’s attention. However, my opinion of her quickly changed in Embrace. We learn so much about her and I totally love her now! One can only hope that these two can find love in Embrace!
Evan is the epitome of perfection. With his good looks and athletic build girls literally throw themselves at him. Can Evan get over Laney and start to rebuild with someone else? You will have to read Embrace to find out!

S.E. Hall did an amazing job with this story. It was sweet and gave me that giddy feeling I needed. I was totally enthralled reading Embrace and I am anxiously awaiting Sawyer’s story! Happy Reading! xoxo

Embrace Receives 4.5 Giddy Stars!

[Christina Racich · Rating 5 out of 5]

"Embrace" starts off pretty much where "Emerge" left off. Evan Allen has had his whole life ripped apart. He lost the love of his life, his best friend, his scholarship, and is starting over at a new school and a new football team all in what seems like a minute. The worst part is he has to see the person that was his life since they were kids and see her happy with someone else while he feels like his life is over.

Whitley is from a rich family that doesn't have anything to do with her. She is misunderstood by most people and comes off as snobby to some. However, this princess is not all what she seems and immediately becomes Evan's closest friend. Trust me they could not be anymore opposite from one another. They heal each other by forming a bond they have never shared with any other. Can Evan get past the heartbreak and let Whitley put his heart back together? Can Evan and Laney get back to being best friends and accept the decisions they have both made?

Embrace was more about the healing of long time friendships and relationships. The crew is all tested with their loyalties, forgiveness, and trust. They are all tested one way or another in this story and in the end friendship's and loyalties are formed that I did not expect. Once again I give S.E. Hall a five star review! Oh and I must say "WAY TO GO" on how she shines a positive light on single father's that are incredible and raise a daughter that any mother would be proud to call hers!

[Heather andrews · Rating 5 out of 5]

Embrace starts off right where Emerge left off and Sawyer I loved that boy and I honestly can't wait for his book, he gives the BEST birthday advice to Laney, "wrap your naked self in a bow and blow his candle out." Dane can read right through Laney and I think that it's a great aspect to have in a relationship, "I mean," he runs his nose the length of mine, blanketing our bodies together, that I don't like it when you lie to me." When a certain tragedy strikes Dane is right there to pick Laney up when she needs it, "come on, baby." Dane bends down and scoops me up I don't know how much later. "You're gonna wait in bed while I run you a hot bath. I got us almost packed; we fly out soon." He carried me to the bed and tucks me in with a kiss to the forehead. "Be right back." Evan he's a good guy and he can get mean when his emotions are high, he was a nice enough character but he wasn't Dane he wasn't my pookie-kin, "Whitley, you don't have to stand beside me just because he's standing beside her. It's not a competition." I know this was supposed to be Whitley and Evan's story but I was more focused on Dane and Laney, especially Laney's naughty ways, "put your hands behind your head," I trace one finger under his boys, back to front, "move them and I stop. Understand?"

[Kara · Rating 3 out of 5]

Rating 3.5

This series is solid. The characters are a great group. I like reading about them. I was glad I got to know them.... I even feel like I will see more of them.
I would have liked to have seen more of DANE. Then again - this book wasn't about him.


Evan is:


Whitley is:






I loved this part:

Getting tattoos! I don't know if there is anything better than seeing a window to a personal experience between characters.

[Feisty Girls · Rating 5 out of 5]

~Joni’s Review~

I loved that Embrace picked up exactly where Emerge left off. Yes, I was like so many rooting for Dane in Emerge, but I had great love for Evan. SE reminded me exactly why I loved him in Embrace.

Evan is a southern gentleman even at such a young age and I adored that about him. All I wanted was for him to find love and be happy.

I also have to admit that I didn’t like Whitley when I first met her in Emerge, but after learning more about her I discovered that she was simply misunderstood and no one ever really gave her a chance. I fell in love with Whitley a little more with every page I read.

The building of the relationship between Evan and Whitley was absolute perfection. I was laughing so hard at his attempts at dating and her saving the day. I loved these two together.

Of course all the others are here also and it goes without saying that I am head over heels in love with the whole gang. I cannot wait to see what happens in the next book. It is one of my most anticipated reads.

5 HUMONGOUS STARS!!!