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The Line That Binds #1
The Line That Binds
Stained with heartache and cursed with vengeance, a stone well lies on a nineteenth-century estate, waiting for the Stockton line to wish again.
When seventeen-year-old Lila Wayde's father loses his high-paying job in Las Vegas, the family relocates to a Pennsylvania estate bequeathed by an estranged aunt. Lila begins a new life there, one not corrupted by wealth and fake friends. She soon meets Ben, the groundskeeper's gritty grandson, and experiences the kind of happiness her life's been missing. But as she settles into the ancient house, she learns information about her ancestors and the old stone well that may make her wish she'd never come.
Ben Shadows has lost enough in life. So when Stockton Estate's owner, Janine, wills the land to her great-niece Lila, Ben fears for the fate of the property. He decides to find out Lila's intentions as the new owner, but his grandfather wants him to protect her from Stockton Estate's alleged curse. As Ben helps Lila dig through the estate's history, they grow closer than he ever intended. Now, along with concerns about the property and the reality of the curse, he struggles with feelings he can't ignore.
Will the secrets of Stockton Estate bring them together or will knowing the truth rip them apart?
When seventeen-year-old Lila Wayde's father loses his high-paying job in Las Vegas, the family relocates to a Pennsylvania estate bequeathed by an estranged aunt. Lila begins a new life there, one not corrupted by wealth and fake friends. She soon meets Ben, the groundskeeper's gritty grandson, and experiences the kind of happiness her life's been missing. But as she settles into the ancient house, she learns information about her ancestors and the old stone well that may make her wish she'd never come.
Ben Shadows has lost enough in life. So when Stockton Estate's owner, Janine, wills the land to her great-niece Lila, Ben fears for the fate of the property. He decides to find out Lila's intentions as the new owner, but his grandfather wants him to protect her from Stockton Estate's alleged curse. As Ben helps Lila dig through the estate's history, they grow closer than he ever intended. Now, along with concerns about the property and the reality of the curse, he struggles with feelings he can't ignore.
Will the secrets of Stockton Estate bring them together or will knowing the truth rip them apart?
ebook
First published November 25, 2013
18 people are currently reading
1867 people want to read
About the author
J.M. Miller
12 books607 followersJ.M. Miller lives on Florida’s Emerald Coast with her husband and daughter.
When she isn't spending time with her family or being distracted by social media sites, she writes contemporary and fantasy romance novels.
When she isn't spending time with her family or being distracted by social media sites, she writes contemporary and fantasy romance novels.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 62 reviews
July 3, 2014
The Line That Binds is an interesting start to what looks to be a creepy and super cool paranormal curse series. The story starts off in the past tense where we meet a man and a jilted woman, who casts a curse on the family and descendants of the man who wronged her. Then, we flash forward to the present where the current owner and family member of the house is losing her mind/memories and dying, supposedly from the curse. She gives the main house and most of the land to some of her estranged relatives. And she gives the other part of the land to the son of her longtime grounds keepers. Her niece, nephew and their father moved in and the story really begins.
The book is told in alternating point of view between the grandson of the grounds keeper- Ben and Aunt Genies Niece LJ. Ben's grandfather is really worried that LJ will be affected by the curse just like her aunt and he wants Ben to look out for her. And to keep her away from this well that somehow is connected to it all. I was super intrigued by the well, just like LJ. How could she not be. She moved into this huge old house and all over the place there are hand painted and number paintings of the same well. It would creep me out and intrigue me as well.
I loved the writing of the story and the concept of it. Even more, I loved Ben and LJ. The little dance that they did around each other, each holding back their feelings was beyond cute. Their flirting made my heart warm and put a smile on my face. What I wanted to see more of was the actual curse. It came up a lot in the beginning of the story, but then we kind of meandered along and we didn't find anything new about it until the end. We saw some effects that it was having on LJ, but other than that the curse plot line felt kind of slow. I want more on that creepy well! We only actually saw it in person once in the whole story! I hope there is more in the next book, because it has completely captured my attention.
The whole story is really well written and makes me long to read the next book to see what is going to happen. The characters will make an impact on you and their romance is very endearing. You will root for these two. The curse is teasing and will leave you wanting for more, but it is such a cool concept that it is just enough to whet your appetite. Bring on the second book!
The book is told in alternating point of view between the grandson of the grounds keeper- Ben and Aunt Genies Niece LJ. Ben's grandfather is really worried that LJ will be affected by the curse just like her aunt and he wants Ben to look out for her. And to keep her away from this well that somehow is connected to it all. I was super intrigued by the well, just like LJ. How could she not be. She moved into this huge old house and all over the place there are hand painted and number paintings of the same well. It would creep me out and intrigue me as well.
I loved the writing of the story and the concept of it. Even more, I loved Ben and LJ. The little dance that they did around each other, each holding back their feelings was beyond cute. Their flirting made my heart warm and put a smile on my face. What I wanted to see more of was the actual curse. It came up a lot in the beginning of the story, but then we kind of meandered along and we didn't find anything new about it until the end. We saw some effects that it was having on LJ, but other than that the curse plot line felt kind of slow. I want more on that creepy well! We only actually saw it in person once in the whole story! I hope there is more in the next book, because it has completely captured my attention.
The whole story is really well written and makes me long to read the next book to see what is going to happen. The characters will make an impact on you and their romance is very endearing. You will root for these two. The curse is teasing and will leave you wanting for more, but it is such a cool concept that it is just enough to whet your appetite. Bring on the second book!
March 29, 2014
This book has been on my TBR list for the longest time mostly because I fell in love with the cover! (Seriously one of the most intriguing covers I've seen in quite some time). I finally sat down to read it this week and it did NOT disappoint.
I don't usually read YA, but this story captivated me from the very beginning. JM Miller's writing style is flawless. I found myself highlighting various sentences and passages simply because they had captivated me.
"Specks of light glinted on her shiny black hair, like they were moving to the beat of a song I could listen to forever."
"I gave a small wave from my seat and he responded by quirking an eyebrow. It was a silent conversation among the chaos around him."
My favorite part of this story was the mystery and the clues surrounding it, which is why I think the latter part of the book really picked up for me.
I found myself breezing through the story wanting to get to the next clue and I was SO intrigued by the ending. I cannot wait to pick up the second book in this series because I have to know how it ends.
I'd highly recommend this book to anyone that loves a beautiful, well plotted story. This book was smart, interesting, and left me hanging just enough at the end so that I needed MORE!
February 24, 2016
☆ I received an RC via the author in exchange for an honest review. Thank you! ☆
This was a interesting story. Normally, I really don't like YA novels as they feel kind of full for my tastes but this one had a supernatural twist that kept me reading on.
Author JM Miller, who've I'd already read two of her previous works, has a clout for dousing her stories with this darkened background or something lurking in the midst that has you cautioning every motive and corner.
The Line That Binds has a mix of past and mystery backing up the characters and main story line where it foreshadows everything and everyone in the present time.
I was transfixed with this curse and how it would affect the budding romance between Ben and LJ. It was fascinating, as it was a treat, watching their relationship unfold with the dreaded curse looming over them.
Pretty cool stuff!!
This was a interesting story. Normally, I really don't like YA novels as they feel kind of full for my tastes but this one had a supernatural twist that kept me reading on.
Author JM Miller, who've I'd already read two of her previous works, has a clout for dousing her stories with this darkened background or something lurking in the midst that has you cautioning every motive and corner.
The Line That Binds has a mix of past and mystery backing up the characters and main story line where it foreshadows everything and everyone in the present time.
I was transfixed with this curse and how it would affect the budding romance between Ben and LJ. It was fascinating, as it was a treat, watching their relationship unfold with the dreaded curse looming over them.
Pretty cool stuff!!
December 8, 2013
The Lemon Review
I'm just going to start this review by suggesting you go pick the book up now. The Line That Binds, by J.M. Miller, was released November 25th and I'm literally biting my nails in anticipation of the follow-up book, The Line That Breaks.
Now that that's out of the way - I can proceed with an actual review.
J.M. Miller is a relatively new author on the scene, The Line That Binds is her second published novel, and holy moly. I fully expect to see a great number of spectacular books from this author in the future - not least of which is the follow up to this novel.
Books like this are why I LOVE reviewing and sharing my love for reading. She makes it so easy!
The Line That Binds is a dual point-of-view story offering perspectives from both LJ and Ben. Ben has lived on the Stockton Estate since he was 10, with his grandfather and the estate's owner, Jeanine or "Genie". At Jeanine's death, the property is divided between Ben and Jeanine's great-grandniece, Lilah or "LJ", on their 18th birthdays.
LJ is the product of a dysfunctional family (and that's putting it delicately) who's used to designer labels and the cool-kids table in Las Vegas. Ben immediately pegs her as a snob, but that exterior wasn't enough to quell his curiosity.
When Lyla's father loses his job, they move to the estate earlier than expected - a few months shy of her 18th birthday. Upon arrival, Ben is instructed by his grandfather to keep LJ as far from the property's wishing well as possible - lest the family curse befalls LJ as well.
Ben doesn't wholly believe in the curse - told to grant the wishes of those around the Stockton family line at the expense of the person granting them - but respects his grandfather enough to try. Unfortunately to no avail. LJ discovers the well, and the curse continues on.
There are a LOT of things to like about this book. The characters are great - Ben is just a solid good guy with a rough past that continues to haunt him. He's funny, too - with just the right amount of snark. LJ's struggle to leave her Las Vegas life behind is completely apparent and believable. Both characters care deeply for their family and share similar backgrounds that help bring them together and cement some truly delicious chemistry.
The plot is obviously along the lines of paranormal, but in a way that really isn't like anything else I've read. It's fresh! It's intriguing! It offers so many reasons to stay up 'til the late hours of the night until you've devoured the final sentences.
J.M. Miller is also an expert wordsmith. She's talented at describing the scenes that really draw you into the atmosphere of the book. A few chapters in - when you finally manage to pull yourself, reluctantly, from the real world - you'll be surprised that you aren't, in fact, in some grand room on the Stockton Estate. That there are no tell-tale signs of motorcycles revving in the background.
The only potential complaint that I can even struggle to come up with is that there are moments where I felt things could have moved along a little more quickly. On the other hand, it's a slow-build that still continues to entertain and enhances the believability of the novel. You really get to see Ben and LJ get to know each other, and something tells me that Miller doesn't waste space on erroneous details. I'm guessing this curse - which I, for one, can't WAIT to find out more about - is full of depth and layers that we haven't even seen the beginning of.
In terms of citrus, you're looking at a pretty juicy lime. There's no sex to speak of, but that doesn't mean there aren't sexy times! The chemistry is pretty hawt and I'd be willing to sell a lung to trade places with LJ a time or two.
In conclusion - buy the book. Read the book. Love the book. Share the book. Then come back here so we can talk more about what the next book might hold!
I'm just going to start this review by suggesting you go pick the book up now. The Line That Binds, by J.M. Miller, was released November 25th and I'm literally biting my nails in anticipation of the follow-up book, The Line That Breaks.
Now that that's out of the way - I can proceed with an actual review.
J.M. Miller is a relatively new author on the scene, The Line That Binds is her second published novel, and holy moly. I fully expect to see a great number of spectacular books from this author in the future - not least of which is the follow up to this novel.
Books like this are why I LOVE reviewing and sharing my love for reading. She makes it so easy!
The Line That Binds is a dual point-of-view story offering perspectives from both LJ and Ben. Ben has lived on the Stockton Estate since he was 10, with his grandfather and the estate's owner, Jeanine or "Genie". At Jeanine's death, the property is divided between Ben and Jeanine's great-grandniece, Lilah or "LJ", on their 18th birthdays.
LJ is the product of a dysfunctional family (and that's putting it delicately) who's used to designer labels and the cool-kids table in Las Vegas. Ben immediately pegs her as a snob, but that exterior wasn't enough to quell his curiosity.
When Lyla's father loses his job, they move to the estate earlier than expected - a few months shy of her 18th birthday. Upon arrival, Ben is instructed by his grandfather to keep LJ as far from the property's wishing well as possible - lest the family curse befalls LJ as well.
Ben doesn't wholly believe in the curse - told to grant the wishes of those around the Stockton family line at the expense of the person granting them - but respects his grandfather enough to try. Unfortunately to no avail. LJ discovers the well, and the curse continues on.
There are a LOT of things to like about this book. The characters are great - Ben is just a solid good guy with a rough past that continues to haunt him. He's funny, too - with just the right amount of snark. LJ's struggle to leave her Las Vegas life behind is completely apparent and believable. Both characters care deeply for their family and share similar backgrounds that help bring them together and cement some truly delicious chemistry.
The plot is obviously along the lines of paranormal, but in a way that really isn't like anything else I've read. It's fresh! It's intriguing! It offers so many reasons to stay up 'til the late hours of the night until you've devoured the final sentences.
J.M. Miller is also an expert wordsmith. She's talented at describing the scenes that really draw you into the atmosphere of the book. A few chapters in - when you finally manage to pull yourself, reluctantly, from the real world - you'll be surprised that you aren't, in fact, in some grand room on the Stockton Estate. That there are no tell-tale signs of motorcycles revving in the background.
The only potential complaint that I can even struggle to come up with is that there are moments where I felt things could have moved along a little more quickly. On the other hand, it's a slow-build that still continues to entertain and enhances the believability of the novel. You really get to see Ben and LJ get to know each other, and something tells me that Miller doesn't waste space on erroneous details. I'm guessing this curse - which I, for one, can't WAIT to find out more about - is full of depth and layers that we haven't even seen the beginning of.
In terms of citrus, you're looking at a pretty juicy lime. There's no sex to speak of, but that doesn't mean there aren't sexy times! The chemistry is pretty hawt and I'd be willing to sell a lung to trade places with LJ a time or two.
In conclusion - buy the book. Read the book. Love the book. Share the book. Then come back here so we can talk more about what the next book might hold!
July 2, 2016
(Read using Kindle Unlimited)
I enjoyed this story, but it did feel long.
I liked both LJ and Ben, and I thought they made a good couple. I liked how LJ looked out for her family, and I liked how LJ and Ben slowly grew to like each other.
The storyline in this was good, but it felt really long. I think the pace was just a bit too slow, and it seemed to take a long time for anything to happen.
When things did finally get explained it was right at the end of the book, and then it seemed like the book ended without things being tied up! I will be reading the next book to find out what happens, but I think I might need a break before diving right into the next book.
7 out of 10
I enjoyed this story, but it did feel long.
I liked both LJ and Ben, and I thought they made a good couple. I liked how LJ looked out for her family, and I liked how LJ and Ben slowly grew to like each other.
The storyline in this was good, but it felt really long. I think the pace was just a bit too slow, and it seemed to take a long time for anything to happen.
When things did finally get explained it was right at the end of the book, and then it seemed like the book ended without things being tied up! I will be reading the next book to find out what happens, but I think I might need a break before diving right into the next book.
7 out of 10
November 13, 2014
Actual rating - 3.25
This was an okay read, but it felt really really long.
Ben and L.J were both likable characters, and i liked their relationship.
I did like this book, but it felt like it went on forever. I expected to hear more about the well, but apart from at the beginning and the end, there wasn't much said about it. I really wanted to find out more about it, so that was quite annoying!
Overall, Slow, but an okay read.
This was an okay read, but it felt really really long.
Ben and L.J were both likable characters, and i liked their relationship.
I did like this book, but it felt like it went on forever. I expected to hear more about the well, but apart from at the beginning and the end, there wasn't much said about it. I really wanted to find out more about it, so that was quite annoying!
Overall, Slow, but an okay read.
July 18, 2014
I gave this book 4.5 stars, but when leaving a review at sites such as Amazon, Goodreads, etc... I round to the next highest star.
***
Ben doesn't believe in the curse but has decided to help his grandpa out and search for something, anything, that will shed some sort of light into it. When he meets LJ he assumes she is a high maintenance girl who will quickly wreck havoc on the estate. What he assumes is wrong. LJ is beyond different and soon he has growing feelings for her.
LJ is tired of the way her life was going when in Las Vegas. She figures with a new home, a new life should come with it and reinvents herself. No longer the selfish girl she was, she hides from others. Only opening up to Ben during their afternoon work hours. She looks forward to their afternoons working the estate grounds and soon realizes she has feelings for this boy she will one day share the estate with.
I absolutely love a good mystery of a story, and THE LINE THAT BINDS hit the nail on the head. Throughout the story we are following Ben and LJ as they search for answers about a curse on LJ's family since the late 1800's. A curse that has now been set into motion in LJ's life. The entire book you are desperately seeking answers right along with them. You want to know if they will be able to over come a curse that affected her family for over a hundred years.
***
But Ben has strength. I felt it months ago at the will reading. I was threatened by it then, and now I just wanted to bury my face into his chest to let it surround me. Why am I cracking around him?
***
Let's not forget the slow building romance part of the story. Yes, I just loved it. I fully believe that stories that center around paranorm'ish and supernatural aspects definitely need a romance to help balance it out and make it more real. And this one did. It absolutely did. These two characters got to know each other and in the end it was perfect. I love how it all wrapped up in the end for them. Beautiful and brilliant.
***
Before I could say anything else, his lips were on mine with passion so demanding it took my breath away. In that instant, I knew this wasn't over. He wasn't there to end things. This was something else entirely.
***
With that ending I am so looking forward to where the curse and the story are headed. Will Ben and LJ find the answers they so desperately seek? Will they be able to end the curse once and for all before it is too late? I am eager to know! And I know you readers will be too. 4.5 Mysterious Stars!
***
Ben doesn't believe in the curse but has decided to help his grandpa out and search for something, anything, that will shed some sort of light into it. When he meets LJ he assumes she is a high maintenance girl who will quickly wreck havoc on the estate. What he assumes is wrong. LJ is beyond different and soon he has growing feelings for her.
LJ is tired of the way her life was going when in Las Vegas. She figures with a new home, a new life should come with it and reinvents herself. No longer the selfish girl she was, she hides from others. Only opening up to Ben during their afternoon work hours. She looks forward to their afternoons working the estate grounds and soon realizes she has feelings for this boy she will one day share the estate with.
I absolutely love a good mystery of a story, and THE LINE THAT BINDS hit the nail on the head. Throughout the story we are following Ben and LJ as they search for answers about a curse on LJ's family since the late 1800's. A curse that has now been set into motion in LJ's life. The entire book you are desperately seeking answers right along with them. You want to know if they will be able to over come a curse that affected her family for over a hundred years.
***
But Ben has strength. I felt it months ago at the will reading. I was threatened by it then, and now I just wanted to bury my face into his chest to let it surround me. Why am I cracking around him?
***
Let's not forget the slow building romance part of the story. Yes, I just loved it. I fully believe that stories that center around paranorm'ish and supernatural aspects definitely need a romance to help balance it out and make it more real. And this one did. It absolutely did. These two characters got to know each other and in the end it was perfect. I love how it all wrapped up in the end for them. Beautiful and brilliant.
***
Before I could say anything else, his lips were on mine with passion so demanding it took my breath away. In that instant, I knew this wasn't over. He wasn't there to end things. This was something else entirely.
***
With that ending I am so looking forward to where the curse and the story are headed. Will Ben and LJ find the answers they so desperately seek? Will they be able to end the curse once and for all before it is too late? I am eager to know! And I know you readers will be too. 4.5 Mysterious Stars!
December 4, 2013
I have read a lot of paranormal romance novels. I love this genre and am so glad that my blog partner introduced me to Twilight those many years ago! That being said, I wasn't sure what to expect when I started The Line That Binds.
It seemed like a unique paranormal read from the synopsis but I never expected to fall quite so in love with the story or characters! I had never heard of the author, JM Miller or anything but I am soooo happy that we were invited on this blog tour so the book and author could be discovered!
This book grabbed my attention almost immediately. I was a little confused by the prologue but only because it wasn't what I expected. After re-reading it along with chapter 1, I was sucked in completely.
The basic premise of the story is about a curse that flows from ancestor to ancestor from a scorned lover in the 1800's. The curse allows the cursed person to grant wishes but lose their mind in exchange. There are no vampires, werewolves, witches or ghosts. (At least not yet!) Ben has known about the curse but believes it is nothing but folklore and superstition. LJ is next in like to receive the curse but knows nothing of the curse.
I love love love the characters in this book! Lila Janine Wayde (LJ) and Ben Shadows are so amazing! I love the way the perspectives alternate and keep you in each characters head. I also loved that both characters are undeniably flawed and broken but can seem to repair and complete the other. There is so much more I would love to tell you about these characters but you just need to READ THIS BOOK, and discover their greatness yourself!
What will happen to LJ? Is the curse a hoax or real? What will come of the new found friendship between Ben and LJ? Are their pasts too horrible to overcome? I honestly cannot wait for the sequel which is slated to release March 2014.
I hope you love it! ❤
http://romancerewind.blogspot.com/201...
It seemed like a unique paranormal read from the synopsis but I never expected to fall quite so in love with the story or characters! I had never heard of the author, JM Miller or anything but I am soooo happy that we were invited on this blog tour so the book and author could be discovered!
This book grabbed my attention almost immediately. I was a little confused by the prologue but only because it wasn't what I expected. After re-reading it along with chapter 1, I was sucked in completely.
The basic premise of the story is about a curse that flows from ancestor to ancestor from a scorned lover in the 1800's. The curse allows the cursed person to grant wishes but lose their mind in exchange. There are no vampires, werewolves, witches or ghosts. (At least not yet!) Ben has known about the curse but believes it is nothing but folklore and superstition. LJ is next in like to receive the curse but knows nothing of the curse.
I love love love the characters in this book! Lila Janine Wayde (LJ) and Ben Shadows are so amazing! I love the way the perspectives alternate and keep you in each characters head. I also loved that both characters are undeniably flawed and broken but can seem to repair and complete the other. There is so much more I would love to tell you about these characters but you just need to READ THIS BOOK, and discover their greatness yourself!
What will happen to LJ? Is the curse a hoax or real? What will come of the new found friendship between Ben and LJ? Are their pasts too horrible to overcome? I honestly cannot wait for the sequel which is slated to release March 2014.
I hope you love it! ❤
http://romancerewind.blogspot.com/201...
October 1, 2014
So many times in YA, the characters are a mold that is used over and over until the details that make a character unique and human are blurred.
That is not the case with this book.
Instead of the standard insecure but beautiful high school girl, we have LJ, a strong, gorgeous girl who had it all, was part of the popularity machine, and is a recovering mean girl who wants to disappear. She's security incarnate, armed with a hoodie and Chucks instead of Burberry and Manolos. And instead of the high school boy that pines over the vulnerable girl from afar, we have Ben, a hot, snarky, confident, totally swoonworthy guy who *doesn't* want the girl. For a minute, at least.
This is a story about judgements, and about things not being what they seem. It's about doing good, trying to be better than you are. It's about letting go of the past and moving forward, and in a way that spans generations in this storyline.
JM Miller threw in the light elements of the supernatural that highlight the story beautifully and drive the plot, which burns slow at first until it's consumed your thoughts, and you just don't want to put it down.
I cannot wait to read book two, and I'll be picking up every book by JM Miller from here out, guaranteed.
That is not the case with this book.
Instead of the standard insecure but beautiful high school girl, we have LJ, a strong, gorgeous girl who had it all, was part of the popularity machine, and is a recovering mean girl who wants to disappear. She's security incarnate, armed with a hoodie and Chucks instead of Burberry and Manolos. And instead of the high school boy that pines over the vulnerable girl from afar, we have Ben, a hot, snarky, confident, totally swoonworthy guy who *doesn't* want the girl. For a minute, at least.
This is a story about judgements, and about things not being what they seem. It's about doing good, trying to be better than you are. It's about letting go of the past and moving forward, and in a way that spans generations in this storyline.
JM Miller threw in the light elements of the supernatural that highlight the story beautifully and drive the plot, which burns slow at first until it's consumed your thoughts, and you just don't want to put it down.
I cannot wait to read book two, and I'll be picking up every book by JM Miller from here out, guaranteed.
May 28, 2014
This book took me by surprise - I've not read a lot of books that were self-published but this one really blew me away! I didn't think I'd be a fan of the two person point of views (Jodi Picoult comes to mind), but it's so well written that it flowed so easily and after the first couple of chapters I barely noticed.
Mysteries are a personal favorite of mine and I like a plot that keeps me guessing but doesn't give answers away too early. This particular story about a girl, a boy and a curse literally kept me on the edge of my seat until the very last page...Lila and Ben are two teens that inherit this estate. After making a wish in a well, Lila sets off a chain reaction that correlates to this ancient curse that had been placed on t well long before. She starts to hear voices, wishes from the well, that as she starts to grant them; she begins to lose a piece of herself with each and soon she will be gone forever.
Ben and Lila then work together as a team to uncover the secrets of the well and find a little romance along the way.I recommend this book for mature YA because of language and mild sexual content. I can't wait for the sequel to come out!
Mysteries are a personal favorite of mine and I like a plot that keeps me guessing but doesn't give answers away too early. This particular story about a girl, a boy and a curse literally kept me on the edge of my seat until the very last page...Lila and Ben are two teens that inherit this estate. After making a wish in a well, Lila sets off a chain reaction that correlates to this ancient curse that had been placed on t well long before. She starts to hear voices, wishes from the well, that as she starts to grant them; she begins to lose a piece of herself with each and soon she will be gone forever.
Ben and Lila then work together as a team to uncover the secrets of the well and find a little romance along the way.I recommend this book for mature YA because of language and mild sexual content. I can't wait for the sequel to come out!
December 26, 2013
A great YA read!
I really enjoyed this book and loved the storyline about the cursed wishing well I also liked how the author grabbed your attention and easily had you fall in love with the characters and I immediately fell in love with Ben and Lj and was rooting for them. I couldn't stop reading to see what happened next,. I kept waiting to see if they found anything to help with the curse and was waiting until one of them finally kissed. I will definitely be reading the next one in the series.
I really enjoyed this book and loved the storyline about the cursed wishing well I also liked how the author grabbed your attention and easily had you fall in love with the characters and I immediately fell in love with Ben and Lj and was rooting for them. I couldn't stop reading to see what happened next,. I kept waiting to see if they found anything to help with the curse and was waiting until one of them finally kissed. I will definitely be reading the next one in the series.
December 26, 2013
You can tell that JM is an experienced writer. I enjoyed this paranormal/young adult/new adult book about a young girl who finds herself and just maybe the love of her life.
It's hot yet sweet, fun yet touches on serious themes. Definitely an author to watch. I'll be purchasing book 2!!
It's hot yet sweet, fun yet touches on serious themes. Definitely an author to watch. I'll be purchasing book 2!!
December 4, 2013
4.5 Stars
Characters- I really liked them. LJ was a great strong female and Ben was sweet, sexy, and the perfect guy. The supporting characters played great roles and made the story even better.
Plot/Storyline- This story had me hooked. I NEEDED to know what was going to happen with the curse and how LJ and Ben's roles played into it. The story was written really well and the mystery of the curse was so well executed and layered that I did not want to put the book down just in case another piece of the puzzle was just a page away.
Steam Factor- The sexual tension was KILLING me!! They are so HOT together and I know that this is a YA novel, but I REALLY wanted a more in depth description of the sex scenes, but that's just me. They would get hot and heavy and then... End of Chapter. Next Chapter.
Cover- This cover is BEAUTIFUL!!! I absolutely love the lighting, artistry, and the representation of the blood bind in the word BINDS. Perfect!!
Cliffhanger- YES!!! I CAN NOT WAIT for the next book!!!!
Overall- I REALLY enjoyed this novel. It was a very good YA novel that I am looking forward to continuing the story in the next novel. I NEED to know if they find a way to put an end to this curse!!!
It has been a while since I've read a YA novel, mainly due to the lack of sex. Don't judge, but I do love a good sex scene. Anyway, I really enjoyed this book. The constant questions kept me hooked to my iPad and not wanting to put it down despite my eyelids begging to differ. I just had to get one more piece of the puzzle before I went to bed, but then the sexual tension would kick in and I'd read page after page wondering WHEN are they going to act on their attraction. This book was a total page turner and I came away from it feeling satisfied and happy with a very well written story.
Let me start with LJ (Lila Janine). She starts the book as a spoiled rich kid with bleached blonde hair and designer clothing. She enters the story during the reading of her Great Aunt's will and finds that she will be willed most of the historical property that has been in her family for centuries once she turns 18. The other piece of the estate is willed to Ben when he also turns 18. After the meeting, LJ returns back to Las Vegas and back to her fake life.
Things stay the same at Stockton Estate with weddings and events being held there due to it's beauty and history. The workers of the estate, including Ben, are very fearful as to what LJ will do with the property once she gets possession of it. Things change once life throws a curve ball at LJ's family and they move into the old mansion on the Stockton Estate. Everyone is leery of LJ and her family and they plan to keep her at a distance and try to find a way to preserve the estate from any damaging decisions the unknown girl to them, LJ, may make.
LJ starts a path of self discovery and growth during her transition from Las Vegas life to Stockton Estate life. She isn't what she seemed when she was at the reading of the will. It was nice seeing her sort of have a cathartic freeing experience during her stay at Stockton Estates. She was able to step outside of her old spoiled life and see it for what it was; Fake. The supporting characters: Gavin (LJ's brother), Lloyd (Ben's grandfather), Carson (LJ's Dad), Spaz (Ben's friend) and Izzy (Ben's friend and Spaz's girlfriend) help add drama, backstory, assistance, support, guidance, humor, and wit to the story. They were all very crucial to make this story so great.
LJ's family line has a curse that goes back almost as old as the estate and she will learn of it first hand. During the moving transition and the task of solving the mystery of the curse Ben and LJ find themselves together often and neither of them are who they thought they would be. I am not going to go any further because I want you to be able to read this great book for yourself and discover the secrets and mystery within. All in all, I REALLY enjoyed this book and will DEFINITELY read the next one. I CAN NOT WAIT to continue this story. Great job J.M. Miller!!! You have definitely made this girl a fan!! XOXO
Characters- I really liked them. LJ was a great strong female and Ben was sweet, sexy, and the perfect guy. The supporting characters played great roles and made the story even better.
Plot/Storyline- This story had me hooked. I NEEDED to know what was going to happen with the curse and how LJ and Ben's roles played into it. The story was written really well and the mystery of the curse was so well executed and layered that I did not want to put the book down just in case another piece of the puzzle was just a page away.
Steam Factor- The sexual tension was KILLING me!! They are so HOT together and I know that this is a YA novel, but I REALLY wanted a more in depth description of the sex scenes, but that's just me. They would get hot and heavy and then... End of Chapter. Next Chapter.
Cover- This cover is BEAUTIFUL!!! I absolutely love the lighting, artistry, and the representation of the blood bind in the word BINDS. Perfect!!
Cliffhanger- YES!!! I CAN NOT WAIT for the next book!!!!
Overall- I REALLY enjoyed this novel. It was a very good YA novel that I am looking forward to continuing the story in the next novel. I NEED to know if they find a way to put an end to this curse!!!
It has been a while since I've read a YA novel, mainly due to the lack of sex. Don't judge, but I do love a good sex scene. Anyway, I really enjoyed this book. The constant questions kept me hooked to my iPad and not wanting to put it down despite my eyelids begging to differ. I just had to get one more piece of the puzzle before I went to bed, but then the sexual tension would kick in and I'd read page after page wondering WHEN are they going to act on their attraction. This book was a total page turner and I came away from it feeling satisfied and happy with a very well written story.
Let me start with LJ (Lila Janine). She starts the book as a spoiled rich kid with bleached blonde hair and designer clothing. She enters the story during the reading of her Great Aunt's will and finds that she will be willed most of the historical property that has been in her family for centuries once she turns 18. The other piece of the estate is willed to Ben when he also turns 18. After the meeting, LJ returns back to Las Vegas and back to her fake life.
Things stay the same at Stockton Estate with weddings and events being held there due to it's beauty and history. The workers of the estate, including Ben, are very fearful as to what LJ will do with the property once she gets possession of it. Things change once life throws a curve ball at LJ's family and they move into the old mansion on the Stockton Estate. Everyone is leery of LJ and her family and they plan to keep her at a distance and try to find a way to preserve the estate from any damaging decisions the unknown girl to them, LJ, may make.
LJ starts a path of self discovery and growth during her transition from Las Vegas life to Stockton Estate life. She isn't what she seemed when she was at the reading of the will. It was nice seeing her sort of have a cathartic freeing experience during her stay at Stockton Estates. She was able to step outside of her old spoiled life and see it for what it was; Fake. The supporting characters: Gavin (LJ's brother), Lloyd (Ben's grandfather), Carson (LJ's Dad), Spaz (Ben's friend) and Izzy (Ben's friend and Spaz's girlfriend) help add drama, backstory, assistance, support, guidance, humor, and wit to the story. They were all very crucial to make this story so great.
LJ's family line has a curse that goes back almost as old as the estate and she will learn of it first hand. During the moving transition and the task of solving the mystery of the curse Ben and LJ find themselves together often and neither of them are who they thought they would be. I am not going to go any further because I want you to be able to read this great book for yourself and discover the secrets and mystery within. All in all, I REALLY enjoyed this book and will DEFINITELY read the next one. I CAN NOT WAIT to continue this story. Great job J.M. Miller!!! You have definitely made this girl a fan!! XOXO
December 6, 2013
Review first appeared on my blog: Book Addict 24-7
I received a copy via Enticing Journey book tours in exchange for an honest review
The Line that Binds by J.M. Miller is a young adult paranormal mystery that features a strong heroine and a very interesting male character. I will admit that when I first jumped into this one, I wasn’t expecting much. I’ve read quite a few paranormal novels that have had lackluster romance and overdramatic situations, but thankfully this wasn’t one of those forgettable reads. Miller’s novel is intriguing, realistic (in how her characters are portrayed), and has just enough romance to make the story swoon-worthy. I for one look forward to the sequel, since this installment has left me craving more!
Lila, the protagonist, has dealt with some pretty nasty stuff in her life, but Ben isn’t a stranger to the darker side of life either. Both of these characters work well together because they offer each other a way to grow past the negative idea of first impressions.
Lila, in my opinion, is the one character who changes the most, and I’m not stating this to be obvious, especially because of what happens in the novel. I think she changes the most regarding the way she views the world and how her life changes so drastically, but most importantly, how well she treats the change. Ben, however, changes in how he judges people (not that big of a deal compared to Lila, in all honesty).
The mystery is like a song that grows steadily as the story progresses, reaching a false crescendo near the conclusion of the novel, leaving us with an impossible need to know more. Miller knows how to create suspense and how to connect everything. The reader should note the instances where Miller throws you a proverbial bone just so you can understand what is exactly happening. This isn’t to say that the reader will be mildly confused—not at all—it’s just pretty neat to watch an author weave a story full of hints so well hidden, that sometimes a reader glimpses right over them without acknowledging them.
The pacing is awesome, which helps a lot for the wary reader. Like I mentioned before, I was a little unsure about this one before I read the first page, but the quick pacing and addicting storytelling pulled me in. I loved the concept of both protagonists having a voice because it leaves no room for doubt, and because it allows us to connect with both characters.
There’s one other thing I want to mention before concluding this review. I want to comment on the very realistic situations that Miller puts her characters in. Ben’s sexual history, and the descriptions of sexuality introduced to the reader via Lila’s unfortunate experience with her boyfriend show us what we already know. The topic of sex in young adult novels is one of those taboos that every author in this age group tends to skirt around. Characters are either very naive and innocent regarding sex, innuendo is assumed with metaphors and allusions to certain situations, while some authors don’t even breach the topic. Miller doesn’t shy away from the fact that sex is very prevalent in today’s teenage culture. Hollywood sells it, parents have become a bit more lax thanks to the inability to monitor everything a child sees/reads/hears, and kids talk about their sexual conquests among friends in school and in social settings.
I’m not saying this is a good thing—the sexualization of kids—but I do approve of an author being realistic and not sugar coating the reality of today’s youth. Plus, with the creation of the New Adult age group, I know there will be more risky young adult novels.
If you like a young adult novel with an interesting premise, teenage love, and if you’re a fan of young adult paranormal stories that feature curses and mystery, then you might enjoy this one.
I received a copy via Enticing Journey book tours in exchange for an honest review
The Line that Binds by J.M. Miller is a young adult paranormal mystery that features a strong heroine and a very interesting male character. I will admit that when I first jumped into this one, I wasn’t expecting much. I’ve read quite a few paranormal novels that have had lackluster romance and overdramatic situations, but thankfully this wasn’t one of those forgettable reads. Miller’s novel is intriguing, realistic (in how her characters are portrayed), and has just enough romance to make the story swoon-worthy. I for one look forward to the sequel, since this installment has left me craving more!
Lila, the protagonist, has dealt with some pretty nasty stuff in her life, but Ben isn’t a stranger to the darker side of life either. Both of these characters work well together because they offer each other a way to grow past the negative idea of first impressions.
Lila, in my opinion, is the one character who changes the most, and I’m not stating this to be obvious, especially because of what happens in the novel. I think she changes the most regarding the way she views the world and how her life changes so drastically, but most importantly, how well she treats the change. Ben, however, changes in how he judges people (not that big of a deal compared to Lila, in all honesty).
The mystery is like a song that grows steadily as the story progresses, reaching a false crescendo near the conclusion of the novel, leaving us with an impossible need to know more. Miller knows how to create suspense and how to connect everything. The reader should note the instances where Miller throws you a proverbial bone just so you can understand what is exactly happening. This isn’t to say that the reader will be mildly confused—not at all—it’s just pretty neat to watch an author weave a story full of hints so well hidden, that sometimes a reader glimpses right over them without acknowledging them.
The pacing is awesome, which helps a lot for the wary reader. Like I mentioned before, I was a little unsure about this one before I read the first page, but the quick pacing and addicting storytelling pulled me in. I loved the concept of both protagonists having a voice because it leaves no room for doubt, and because it allows us to connect with both characters.
There’s one other thing I want to mention before concluding this review. I want to comment on the very realistic situations that Miller puts her characters in. Ben’s sexual history, and the descriptions of sexuality introduced to the reader via Lila’s unfortunate experience with her boyfriend show us what we already know. The topic of sex in young adult novels is one of those taboos that every author in this age group tends to skirt around. Characters are either very naive and innocent regarding sex, innuendo is assumed with metaphors and allusions to certain situations, while some authors don’t even breach the topic. Miller doesn’t shy away from the fact that sex is very prevalent in today’s teenage culture. Hollywood sells it, parents have become a bit more lax thanks to the inability to monitor everything a child sees/reads/hears, and kids talk about their sexual conquests among friends in school and in social settings.
I’m not saying this is a good thing—the sexualization of kids—but I do approve of an author being realistic and not sugar coating the reality of today’s youth. Plus, with the creation of the New Adult age group, I know there will be more risky young adult novels.
If you like a young adult novel with an interesting premise, teenage love, and if you’re a fan of young adult paranormal stories that feature curses and mystery, then you might enjoy this one.
March 23, 2014
I was asked to read and review The Line That Binds by J.M. Miller for Swoon Worthy Books, and let me just say that this book could not have come to me at a better time. I have been reading so much of one certain genre that I needed a little paranormal reading in my life. And this book did not disappoint. I fell in love with it at the beginning.
When I first read the synopsis for The Line That Binds, I was hooked. I could not wait to get the ARC and start reading. Once I received it, I was done for. I didn’t want to put the book down. I had to know what would happen with Lila and Ben. Then I get to the end and it is not actually the end and now I have to wait… ARRGggg, so not fair, but that is ok, because the anticipation is what is going to make it better.
We start The Line That Binds by actually seeing what happens to bring upon the curse that will ultimately last for generations in the Stockton Family. It is 1864, and Dahlia was merely a servant for the Stockton family but she was in love and her heart belonged to Charles Stockton who ripped it out after he slept with her one final time and then told her he was still marrying his fiancé. With a shattered heart, that is when Dahlia curses the man she will always love and remember, but vows that he or his family will never remember anything. And when you are reading this it is very cryptic here. Because it makes me think that she is just going to cause him to never think of her again and to forget her, but that is not the case and this is the spot that Miller hooked me, because you want to know exactly what happens.
Now we fast forward to the present, and meet Ben Shadows and Lila Wayde. Ben is not your typical teenage boy working at Stockton Estates to get money to buy the things he wants. Stockton Estates is Ben’s home and has been since he was 10 years old, when he came to live with his Grandfather Lloyd in the old servant home on the property. But now that home and his job along with the other employees are threatened when Janine Stockton passes away. Although Ben’s grandfather is left the servants home in her will and Ben himself is left with a piece of the property no one know what will happen once Lila Wayde, Janine’s great niece, takes over when she turns 18.
Lila Wayde, never really knew her great Aunt Janine. She has only been at Stockton Estates a few times that she knows of, but when her family is called to come there for the reading of her aunt’s will, Lila never expects to own most of Stockton Estates once she turns 18. The only problem is now, her father has now lost his job in Las Vegas and she is forced to move to the property in Pennsylvania along with her father and brother. There is just one catch, Lila has to become an employee on the grounds of Stockton Estates, (working with Ben) once she moves there. This is a stipulation of the will, so she knows the business side of the Estate before she takes it over. The only thing that Lila doesn’t know about is the curse that was put on her family so many years ago.
Now if you know me then you know that this is where I am going to tell you to get the book to read what happens. Because I am really wanting to continue writing, but I know if I do then I am going to end up writing spoilers and that is not something I want to do. I can tell you that J.M. Miller has a new fan and I can’t wait for the next book to come out so I can find out what happens to Ben and Lila and the curse. Although this book is considered a YA Paranormal it is something that can be read by all ages (well I would say 17 and up).
When I first read the synopsis for The Line That Binds, I was hooked. I could not wait to get the ARC and start reading. Once I received it, I was done for. I didn’t want to put the book down. I had to know what would happen with Lila and Ben. Then I get to the end and it is not actually the end and now I have to wait… ARRGggg, so not fair, but that is ok, because the anticipation is what is going to make it better.
We start The Line That Binds by actually seeing what happens to bring upon the curse that will ultimately last for generations in the Stockton Family. It is 1864, and Dahlia was merely a servant for the Stockton family but she was in love and her heart belonged to Charles Stockton who ripped it out after he slept with her one final time and then told her he was still marrying his fiancé. With a shattered heart, that is when Dahlia curses the man she will always love and remember, but vows that he or his family will never remember anything. And when you are reading this it is very cryptic here. Because it makes me think that she is just going to cause him to never think of her again and to forget her, but that is not the case and this is the spot that Miller hooked me, because you want to know exactly what happens.
Now we fast forward to the present, and meet Ben Shadows and Lila Wayde. Ben is not your typical teenage boy working at Stockton Estates to get money to buy the things he wants. Stockton Estates is Ben’s home and has been since he was 10 years old, when he came to live with his Grandfather Lloyd in the old servant home on the property. But now that home and his job along with the other employees are threatened when Janine Stockton passes away. Although Ben’s grandfather is left the servants home in her will and Ben himself is left with a piece of the property no one know what will happen once Lila Wayde, Janine’s great niece, takes over when she turns 18.
Lila Wayde, never really knew her great Aunt Janine. She has only been at Stockton Estates a few times that she knows of, but when her family is called to come there for the reading of her aunt’s will, Lila never expects to own most of Stockton Estates once she turns 18. The only problem is now, her father has now lost his job in Las Vegas and she is forced to move to the property in Pennsylvania along with her father and brother. There is just one catch, Lila has to become an employee on the grounds of Stockton Estates, (working with Ben) once she moves there. This is a stipulation of the will, so she knows the business side of the Estate before she takes it over. The only thing that Lila doesn’t know about is the curse that was put on her family so many years ago.
Now if you know me then you know that this is where I am going to tell you to get the book to read what happens. Because I am really wanting to continue writing, but I know if I do then I am going to end up writing spoilers and that is not something I want to do. I can tell you that J.M. Miller has a new fan and I can’t wait for the next book to come out so I can find out what happens to Ben and Lila and the curse. Although this book is considered a YA Paranormal it is something that can be read by all ages (well I would say 17 and up).
July 3, 2014
THE LINE THAT BINDS is a great YA paranormal romance novel!
Lila Wayde inherits an ancient estate in Pennsylvania from an aunt she barely knew and though she never thought she would live there, her father loses his high-paying job in Vegas and now they have no choice but to move in. She decides there is no better time than now to start over and cut out the fake friends and popularity contests. Ben lives on the Stockton estate with his grandfather and they knew and loved Lila’s aunt. They also know of the mysterious curse that follows the bloodline family at the estate and expect Lila will now suffer the same fate as her great aunt. Ben did not expect to develop feelings for the spoiled princess and when he discovers that she is very different from the girl he thought she would be, he must figure out a way to save her from the curse.
While Lila is struggling with regaining her identity and all the changes that have occurred in her life, Ben has his own set of demons and Lila entering the picture and possibly throwing his life into turmoil definitely sets him off. He resents her immediately so their relationship is a slow build, but it also makes it more believable and real.
This story has so many wonderful elements that its hard to pinpoint my favorite part. The characters and dialogue were so real to today’s teenagers, fast-paced relationships and all. The two-person point of view gave all the details I wanted and still flowed effortlessly. Paranormal always seems to be the same subjects, but the curse and the creepy well that helps the Stockton ancestor grant wishes to others while stealing their memories seemed very original.
I am hoping that the second book in the series, THE LINE THAT BREAKS, will have Lila and Ben uncovering more secrets about the well and the curse that has destroyed so many Stockton ancestors. While they barely learn anything about the history in this first book, there has to be so much more to discover before they can save Lila.
THE LINE THAT BINDS is very well-written and this author totally nailed the YA romance while keeping my on my toes with the paranormal elements. The story is complex and well-developed and certainly worth the read if you are into the YA genre.
✳✳ Copy provided by the author/publisher for an honest review.
✳✳ Reviewed on I ♥ Bookie Nookie Reviews
Lila Wayde inherits an ancient estate in Pennsylvania from an aunt she barely knew and though she never thought she would live there, her father loses his high-paying job in Vegas and now they have no choice but to move in. She decides there is no better time than now to start over and cut out the fake friends and popularity contests. Ben lives on the Stockton estate with his grandfather and they knew and loved Lila’s aunt. They also know of the mysterious curse that follows the bloodline family at the estate and expect Lila will now suffer the same fate as her great aunt. Ben did not expect to develop feelings for the spoiled princess and when he discovers that she is very different from the girl he thought she would be, he must figure out a way to save her from the curse.
While Lila is struggling with regaining her identity and all the changes that have occurred in her life, Ben has his own set of demons and Lila entering the picture and possibly throwing his life into turmoil definitely sets him off. He resents her immediately so their relationship is a slow build, but it also makes it more believable and real.
This story has so many wonderful elements that its hard to pinpoint my favorite part. The characters and dialogue were so real to today’s teenagers, fast-paced relationships and all. The two-person point of view gave all the details I wanted and still flowed effortlessly. Paranormal always seems to be the same subjects, but the curse and the creepy well that helps the Stockton ancestor grant wishes to others while stealing their memories seemed very original.
I am hoping that the second book in the series, THE LINE THAT BREAKS, will have Lila and Ben uncovering more secrets about the well and the curse that has destroyed so many Stockton ancestors. While they barely learn anything about the history in this first book, there has to be so much more to discover before they can save Lila.
THE LINE THAT BINDS is very well-written and this author totally nailed the YA romance while keeping my on my toes with the paranormal elements. The story is complex and well-developed and certainly worth the read if you are into the YA genre.
✳✳ Copy provided by the author/publisher for an honest review.
✳✳ Reviewed on I ♥ Bookie Nookie Reviews
May 9, 2014
When Jammie brought this book to my attention I jumped at the chance to read it. I have been a little bit of a reading slump lately and was looking for something different. This book proved to be just the thing. It was the perfect blend of chemistry between characters funny one liners and mystery to have depth to it. I actually have already pimped it out to some of my reader friends who are less romantic readers and have gotten some great feedback from them as well.
Lila (LJ) has led what looks like a charmed life on the outside. She hung with the popular kids at school had the best car the best clothes and lived in an upperclass golf neighborhood in Summerlin Nevada. (Trust me folds I lived in off Summerlin parkway in Vegas it's a pretty glitzy place) All That before her Mom hit bottom as an addict and her workaholic dad lost his job and subsequently all their money. Now she finds herself working as a grounds keeper on the property that a distant Aunt left her in Pennsylvania Where she meets Ben. He's the grounds keepers grandson and soon to be half owner of the estate. Ben cares about the property and the people who work it. But more then that he can't understand why the previous owner left the property which holds a mysterious curse to a blood relative knowing that it would trigger the curse and doom LJ to a life of pain, solitude and the loss of her most precious memories. As the two embark on a mission to find out if the curse is real and to find a way to stop it. Ben's concern shifts from the property to the girl who just might hold the key to his heart. A heart he thought he lost to another years before who took it with her when she died.
This book was a refreshing read. I enjoyed trying to puzzle out the way out of the curse. I liked watching Lila become LJ and Ben become someone she could trust. There were moments where they both could have avoided some of the drama just by opening their mouths to each other but hey it's fiction and all the tension makes for good reading! As the book went on it was interesting and had the ability to pull me in to the point when I was finished I was happy knowing there was a second one in the series. I am intrigued enough that I want to see it through till the end! This is a great book for YA it has a little of the naughty but not enough to make it dirty.... It will appeal to both romance readers and mystery readers as well as a little into the paranormal. The paranormal side of it wasn't wonky it was more like superstition so it didn't feel far fetched or silly! All in all I felt it was a great read!!
Lila (LJ) has led what looks like a charmed life on the outside. She hung with the popular kids at school had the best car the best clothes and lived in an upperclass golf neighborhood in Summerlin Nevada. (Trust me folds I lived in off Summerlin parkway in Vegas it's a pretty glitzy place) All That before her Mom hit bottom as an addict and her workaholic dad lost his job and subsequently all their money. Now she finds herself working as a grounds keeper on the property that a distant Aunt left her in Pennsylvania Where she meets Ben. He's the grounds keepers grandson and soon to be half owner of the estate. Ben cares about the property and the people who work it. But more then that he can't understand why the previous owner left the property which holds a mysterious curse to a blood relative knowing that it would trigger the curse and doom LJ to a life of pain, solitude and the loss of her most precious memories. As the two embark on a mission to find out if the curse is real and to find a way to stop it. Ben's concern shifts from the property to the girl who just might hold the key to his heart. A heart he thought he lost to another years before who took it with her when she died.
This book was a refreshing read. I enjoyed trying to puzzle out the way out of the curse. I liked watching Lila become LJ and Ben become someone she could trust. There were moments where they both could have avoided some of the drama just by opening their mouths to each other but hey it's fiction and all the tension makes for good reading! As the book went on it was interesting and had the ability to pull me in to the point when I was finished I was happy knowing there was a second one in the series. I am intrigued enough that I want to see it through till the end! This is a great book for YA it has a little of the naughty but not enough to make it dirty.... It will appeal to both romance readers and mystery readers as well as a little into the paranormal. The paranormal side of it wasn't wonky it was more like superstition so it didn't feel far fetched or silly! All in all I felt it was a great read!!
January 21, 2014
Lila, or LJ, has recently inherited Stockton Estate from her Great Aunt Janine who she barely knew. This inheritance comes at a perfect time, as her father has just lost his high paying job and the family doesn’t have anywhere to go. LJ is used to all the luxuries money can buy, but the family, minus her mother who left a year earlier, start having to sell things to survive. LJ handles it well. I really liked her. For being so young, she has a lot in her shoulders, but she handles it with grace and dignity. Knowing her background, you would imagine she would kick, scream, and put a fight, but she does not. Her main concern is her little brother. She wants him to have it all. She is the mother figure in his life, and she always puts him first.
Once the family hits rock bottom and moves, she sees the error of her spoiled ways and decides that she needs to find the real her. She wants nothing to do with the popular crowd in her new school and does what she can to avoid them. She soon strikes up a friendship with Ben, who works at Stockton and takes her under his wing as they work together. He starts their friendship off reluctantly thinking she is a spoiled rich girl. His grandfather pushes him to befriend and protect her against a supposed curse on her family.
This book isn't full of a lot of action. However, the author does a wonderful job of weaving together romance and mystery into a realistic story. She has created fun (sometimes quirky) characters. I found myself wanting LJ to succeed in not only figuring out the curse, but also to succeed in her family life and with Ben. Hers is a broken home, and she needs to learn to forgive and move past her father's mistakes. He really tries and my heart went out to him. He wants to make it up to her and will if she will let him. Ben is an awesome character. He’s sweet, dependable, loyal, and real. He is someone that LJ definitely needs. He needs her, too. He also has a sad past, and she helps to bring him to life.
As the two get closer, you experience the emotions of young attraction; how it feels to feel that something special about someone else for the first time. However, Ben has been harboring the secret of the well's curse from LJ. Once the secret comes out, will the two be able to keep their budding relationship going or will it crumble?
J.M. Miller does a great job at pulling you into the story and making you root for the characters. If you like an intriguing, mysterious book with hints of romance, this is for you.
Once the family hits rock bottom and moves, she sees the error of her spoiled ways and decides that she needs to find the real her. She wants nothing to do with the popular crowd in her new school and does what she can to avoid them. She soon strikes up a friendship with Ben, who works at Stockton and takes her under his wing as they work together. He starts their friendship off reluctantly thinking she is a spoiled rich girl. His grandfather pushes him to befriend and protect her against a supposed curse on her family.
This book isn't full of a lot of action. However, the author does a wonderful job of weaving together romance and mystery into a realistic story. She has created fun (sometimes quirky) characters. I found myself wanting LJ to succeed in not only figuring out the curse, but also to succeed in her family life and with Ben. Hers is a broken home, and she needs to learn to forgive and move past her father's mistakes. He really tries and my heart went out to him. He wants to make it up to her and will if she will let him. Ben is an awesome character. He’s sweet, dependable, loyal, and real. He is someone that LJ definitely needs. He needs her, too. He also has a sad past, and she helps to bring him to life.
As the two get closer, you experience the emotions of young attraction; how it feels to feel that something special about someone else for the first time. However, Ben has been harboring the secret of the well's curse from LJ. Once the secret comes out, will the two be able to keep their budding relationship going or will it crumble?
J.M. Miller does a great job at pulling you into the story and making you root for the characters. If you like an intriguing, mysterious book with hints of romance, this is for you.
December 4, 2013
This a great story ... GREAT story. It's nothing like I expected, but pleasantly unexpected!!
Lila (LJ) is seventeen and just learned that her great aunt Janine has passed away. She was left the Stockton Estate, which houses a huge mansion. Her mother left her family for drugs and alcohol, while her father loses his high paying job at a casino. The family was able to move a few months before Lila inherits the house at the age of eighteen. It turns out to be a huge change for her. She is used to the high life, with friends that match. Lila is unsure of how this life will turn out now that they are in Pennsylvania.
Benjamin (Ben) is the groundskeepers grandson. He also inherits part of the estate. Pop (the grandfather) is not too happy about this, due to the Stockton Curse. Ben cannot figure out why it was left to him, but he graciously accepts. This way, he and Pop can continue living on the property, and keep their jobs.
The Stockton curse was started way back in 1864, by a heart broken woman. She was in love with a man who was preparing to marry another. This woman vowed that she would never forget, but she would make sure his family never remembered. This curse was tied to the well on the property.
**excerpt**
The Stockton curse runs deep and transcends time. The rumor was that it gave Janine the power to grant other people wishes. In return, the curse supposedly claimed her memories.
Ben didn't believe in the curse. He wished many wishes and was never granted any. It didn't save the life of his girlfriend, after all.
Lila and Ben start to become close. Pop asked Ben to befriend Lila and keep her protected from the curse. Ben has apprehensions, but he would do anything for Pop, so he reluctantly agrees. The two become closer than either of them ever expected. They belong together, they complete each other.
Do the two end up together? Is the curse real? Does this person truly lose their memories?
Only you can find out by reading The Line That Binds. I have definitely found another great author, in which I will follow. Next in line...The Line That Breaks by JM Miller!!
Lila (LJ) is seventeen and just learned that her great aunt Janine has passed away. She was left the Stockton Estate, which houses a huge mansion. Her mother left her family for drugs and alcohol, while her father loses his high paying job at a casino. The family was able to move a few months before Lila inherits the house at the age of eighteen. It turns out to be a huge change for her. She is used to the high life, with friends that match. Lila is unsure of how this life will turn out now that they are in Pennsylvania.
Benjamin (Ben) is the groundskeepers grandson. He also inherits part of the estate. Pop (the grandfather) is not too happy about this, due to the Stockton Curse. Ben cannot figure out why it was left to him, but he graciously accepts. This way, he and Pop can continue living on the property, and keep their jobs.
The Stockton curse was started way back in 1864, by a heart broken woman. She was in love with a man who was preparing to marry another. This woman vowed that she would never forget, but she would make sure his family never remembered. This curse was tied to the well on the property.
**excerpt**
The Stockton curse runs deep and transcends time. The rumor was that it gave Janine the power to grant other people wishes. In return, the curse supposedly claimed her memories.
Ben didn't believe in the curse. He wished many wishes and was never granted any. It didn't save the life of his girlfriend, after all.
Lila and Ben start to become close. Pop asked Ben to befriend Lila and keep her protected from the curse. Ben has apprehensions, but he would do anything for Pop, so he reluctantly agrees. The two become closer than either of them ever expected. They belong together, they complete each other.
Do the two end up together? Is the curse real? Does this person truly lose their memories?
Only you can find out by reading The Line That Binds. I have definitely found another great author, in which I will follow. Next in line...The Line That Breaks by JM Miller!!
June 16, 2014
4.5 Stars!
Firstly I would like to thank Miller for kindle providing me with a copy of The Line That Bends to read and review, this certainly won't be the last.
Lila and Ben are two different yet the same, teens that inherit an estate which belonged to Lila's estranged aunt.
When Lila, her brother and her dad move into the estate after unfortunate events, its a dark, dismal and a foreboding feeling, like there is darkness is looming.
Ben works as a groundsman on the estate with his Grandfather, this is home to him, and nothing will take it away from him.
Not even some snobby rich kid....or is she?
I loved the short poem that Miller wrote in the beginning:
After discovering her Aunt's painting collection of a well, Lila sets out on a adventure to find it, to check out its beauty, little known to her, Ben is also in search for the well, but for a different reason.
After an unfortunate event and a run on with the well, this sets off a chain of event which result in Ben & Lila searching the estate for anything that they can find on a "curse" Ben's grandpa spoke of on Lila's bloodline.
As these two teens conspire to figure out this curse together, they both wasn't expecting to have the feelings that they have for one another, and with time, there growing stronger and stronger the more they spend time together.
Once the secret that Ben's been harbouring comes out, will the two be able to keep their blossoming relationship going or will the cracks cause it to crumble and fall?
This book is full of mystery and excitement and I really did get caught up in it. The writer did an awesome job with the Characters and the story line.
I can't wait to read more and read the next instalment that Miller has lined up for us in the sequel "The Line That Breaks"
Firstly I would like to thank Miller for kindle providing me with a copy of The Line That Bends to read and review, this certainly won't be the last.
Lila and Ben are two different yet the same, teens that inherit an estate which belonged to Lila's estranged aunt.
When Lila, her brother and her dad move into the estate after unfortunate events, its a dark, dismal and a foreboding feeling, like there is darkness is looming.
Ben works as a groundsman on the estate with his Grandfather, this is home to him, and nothing will take it away from him.
Not even some snobby rich kid....or is she?
I loved the short poem that Miller wrote in the beginning:
"No light shines the same,
No shadow conceals the ache.
Once was passion, now is pain.
The touch of skin, the smell of rain.
Eyes like fire have burnt to ash. Vacant. Gone.
Cold and Frail.
The secrets, the whispers, a broken trust.
Forever it will stay, crippling until I break."
After discovering her Aunt's painting collection of a well, Lila sets out on a adventure to find it, to check out its beauty, little known to her, Ben is also in search for the well, but for a different reason.
After an unfortunate event and a run on with the well, this sets off a chain of event which result in Ben & Lila searching the estate for anything that they can find on a "curse" Ben's grandpa spoke of on Lila's bloodline.
As these two teens conspire to figure out this curse together, they both wasn't expecting to have the feelings that they have for one another, and with time, there growing stronger and stronger the more they spend time together.
Once the secret that Ben's been harbouring comes out, will the two be able to keep their blossoming relationship going or will the cracks cause it to crumble and fall?
This book is full of mystery and excitement and I really did get caught up in it. The writer did an awesome job with the Characters and the story line.
I can't wait to read more and read the next instalment that Miller has lined up for us in the sequel "The Line That Breaks"
January 1, 2015
I was really impressed with this book. It was really well-written and had great dual perspective storytelling from both the main characters points of view. It also had a good mix of romance, humour, mystery and suspense. The story centres around a wishing-well on the grandiose Stockton Estate which was cursed by a jilted lover in the late 19th century and still haunts the Stockton descendants today. Lila, the main character, recently inherited the estate from her great aunt and soon discovers there are many secrets within the estate house, her aunt's old things and of course, the overgrown stone wishing-well that still stands on the property. Ben, the ground-keeper's grandson, has been recruited by his grandfather to try and keep Lila from the cursed well and find out what she knows about her family's history. However, he soon realises he's interested in more that just keeping an eye on Lila. The story unfolds from there as secrets of the past are uncovered and Lila falls victim to the curse of her family line.
One of the things I really liked about this book was the was Lila realised how empty her life used to be, but rather than letting that get her down she took the opportunity after moving to the Stockton Estate to re-discover who she truly is - not who she let herself become out of a need to fit in with the popular crowd at her old school. I admired her strength and courage in choosing to become a better person rather than slipping back into what was familiar and easy. I also really liked Ben, the way he helps his grandfather care for the estate, and how he let Harper's death give him the wake-up call he needed to get rid of the 'friends' that were only causing him trouble. I also liked the banter between Ben and Lila and the romantic moments between them were really sweet. The final thing I liked about this book was the history. I like old things and loved getting to read about secret passageways and underground tunnels in the old mansion. I can't wait to read the next book and find out what will happen next. I'd recommend this book if you like young-adult paranormal romance books and want something that is intriguing and different from the norm.
One of the things I really liked about this book was the was Lila realised how empty her life used to be, but rather than letting that get her down she took the opportunity after moving to the Stockton Estate to re-discover who she truly is - not who she let herself become out of a need to fit in with the popular crowd at her old school. I admired her strength and courage in choosing to become a better person rather than slipping back into what was familiar and easy. I also really liked Ben, the way he helps his grandfather care for the estate, and how he let Harper's death give him the wake-up call he needed to get rid of the 'friends' that were only causing him trouble. I also liked the banter between Ben and Lila and the romantic moments between them were really sweet. The final thing I liked about this book was the history. I like old things and loved getting to read about secret passageways and underground tunnels in the old mansion. I can't wait to read the next book and find out what will happen next. I'd recommend this book if you like young-adult paranormal romance books and want something that is intriguing and different from the norm.
December 9, 2013
I was given this book as an ARC for an honest review.
That being said i gave this book 4.5 stars.
Stained with heartache and cursed with vengeance, a stone well lies on a nineteenth-century estate, waiting for the Stockton line to wish again.
When seventeen-year-old Lila is bequeathed a Pennsylvania estate by an estranged aunt, and her dad loses his high paying job, they move to this old house in a new place that they are not use to. Here Lila is a new person and she can become anyone she wants, no longer rich and popular she decides to become someone that she use to make fun of. Someone who just is a person, with feelings and without attitude.
She meets Ben who is a worker on the estate and goes to school with her, and he is encouraged to be friend her to protect her from the curse that seems to plague her family.
As he gets closer to her and tries to figure out if this curse is real or not, he starts to have feeling for her and she as well is starting to have feelings for Ben, her life is so different from the one she left behind but she is happy. And Ben sees that she is not person he thought she was.
Is this curse real? and if it is can she be saved from it? What is this mysterious well??
I really liked this story, it was a good read. I didn't care much for Lila at the beginning of the book she seemed like she was going to be spoiled and a brat, but that changed once you go to know her and her family, I like both her brother and her father as well. He was a dad that had made mistakes and was trying to make up for all the things that he did wrong. Ben is very sweet, and has such a good heart, and he falls for Lila even before I think he realizes it. This book is full of mystery and excitement and I really did get caught up in the story. The writer did a very good job with the Characters and the story line. This ended before everything was figured out but there is another book coming out. I can't wait to see what lies ahead for these two and for the estate and the well!! thank you for your story.
That being said i gave this book 4.5 stars.
Stained with heartache and cursed with vengeance, a stone well lies on a nineteenth-century estate, waiting for the Stockton line to wish again.
When seventeen-year-old Lila is bequeathed a Pennsylvania estate by an estranged aunt, and her dad loses his high paying job, they move to this old house in a new place that they are not use to. Here Lila is a new person and she can become anyone she wants, no longer rich and popular she decides to become someone that she use to make fun of. Someone who just is a person, with feelings and without attitude.
She meets Ben who is a worker on the estate and goes to school with her, and he is encouraged to be friend her to protect her from the curse that seems to plague her family.
As he gets closer to her and tries to figure out if this curse is real or not, he starts to have feeling for her and she as well is starting to have feelings for Ben, her life is so different from the one she left behind but she is happy. And Ben sees that she is not person he thought she was.
Is this curse real? and if it is can she be saved from it? What is this mysterious well??
I really liked this story, it was a good read. I didn't care much for Lila at the beginning of the book she seemed like she was going to be spoiled and a brat, but that changed once you go to know her and her family, I like both her brother and her father as well. He was a dad that had made mistakes and was trying to make up for all the things that he did wrong. Ben is very sweet, and has such a good heart, and he falls for Lila even before I think he realizes it. This book is full of mystery and excitement and I really did get caught up in the story. The writer did a very good job with the Characters and the story line. This ended before everything was figured out but there is another book coming out. I can't wait to see what lies ahead for these two and for the estate and the well!! thank you for your story.
January 4, 2015
This book is terrific; I fell in love with it page by page. First, I'll get into the plot:
The Line that Binds is a young adult novel full of romance and mystery. 17 year old Lila (or LJ as she's later called in the book) moves to her great-aunt's Pennsylvania estate, after her dad lost his job in Las Vegas. Lila now has to readjust to her new life with a father she barely knows, becoming familiar with the huge estate and town, and dealing with being the new girl at school. Then, Lila meets Ben...
...Ben has been living and working at the estate for most of his life, the estate is his home and he loves it dearly. When he learns that Lila will own the property when she turns 18, he's worried about what she will do with it. Wanting to know her intentions about the property, his grandfather also warns him to protect Lila from the estate's alleged curse and to find any information pertaining about the curse. As Ben and Lila discover the house's history, they also become close to one another.
I really loved the characters of Lila and Ben. I thought the back-and-forth narration between Lila and Ben was smart and flowed well, as it gave me an understanding, and adds more depth, to the characters. Not only was it interesting to find out more about the curse and the house's secrets, but I loved the building relationship between Lila and Ben. I really felt for their characters and their personal stories tugged at my heart. It's something readers can relate to; but something I related to with these characters is finding yourself and being able to open up to that one person who will listen. I think the author demonstrates well through these characters is that you're not the only one going through something terrible or sad in life, and we can also find someone who we can relate to and help us get through tough times.
Overall, the mystery about the curse is intriguing and the characters are very well-rounded. I will definitely be reading the sequel and can't wait until it comes out!
Thanks so much to J.M Miller for the book giveaway! :D
The Line that Binds is a young adult novel full of romance and mystery. 17 year old Lila (or LJ as she's later called in the book) moves to her great-aunt's Pennsylvania estate, after her dad lost his job in Las Vegas. Lila now has to readjust to her new life with a father she barely knows, becoming familiar with the huge estate and town, and dealing with being the new girl at school. Then, Lila meets Ben...
...Ben has been living and working at the estate for most of his life, the estate is his home and he loves it dearly. When he learns that Lila will own the property when she turns 18, he's worried about what she will do with it. Wanting to know her intentions about the property, his grandfather also warns him to protect Lila from the estate's alleged curse and to find any information pertaining about the curse. As Ben and Lila discover the house's history, they also become close to one another.
I really loved the characters of Lila and Ben. I thought the back-and-forth narration between Lila and Ben was smart and flowed well, as it gave me an understanding, and adds more depth, to the characters. Not only was it interesting to find out more about the curse and the house's secrets, but I loved the building relationship between Lila and Ben. I really felt for their characters and their personal stories tugged at my heart. It's something readers can relate to; but something I related to with these characters is finding yourself and being able to open up to that one person who will listen. I think the author demonstrates well through these characters is that you're not the only one going through something terrible or sad in life, and we can also find someone who we can relate to and help us get through tough times.
Overall, the mystery about the curse is intriguing and the characters are very well-rounded. I will definitely be reading the sequel and can't wait until it comes out!
Thanks so much to J.M Miller for the book giveaway! :D
March 30, 2014
I thought this was a great YA novel and would have loved to give a 4 star review however the beginning of the book was a little slow for me and it took me a little while to get into it. However once I did get into it I couldn't put it down or quit turning pages. It is greatly written and great read!
LJ makes a great strong female lead in the book. I love how in the beginning she seems like a spoiled little rich girl but you seen realize there is a lot more to her and her past is something a lot of people can relate to. To see the change in her though out the novel is great to read about.
Ben is also a strong lead character and is actually a lot different as far as leading male characters go from other novels that I have read. That to me is a good thing. Its nice to see something different.
TO read about how LJ and Ben grow close it seems almost like something that just happened and wasn't forced. Ben already knows about the supposed curse that is around the Stockton Estate even if he doesn't believe it. When he starts seeing the symptoms in LJ everything becomes real. LJ had no idea about any of it until late in the novel but once she does they join forces to figure out where the curse originated and why.
This novel left me wanting more and I can't wait to read the next book.
LJ makes a great strong female lead in the book. I love how in the beginning she seems like a spoiled little rich girl but you seen realize there is a lot more to her and her past is something a lot of people can relate to. To see the change in her though out the novel is great to read about.
Ben is also a strong lead character and is actually a lot different as far as leading male characters go from other novels that I have read. That to me is a good thing. Its nice to see something different.
TO read about how LJ and Ben grow close it seems almost like something that just happened and wasn't forced. Ben already knows about the supposed curse that is around the Stockton Estate even if he doesn't believe it. When he starts seeing the symptoms in LJ everything becomes real. LJ had no idea about any of it until late in the novel but once she does they join forces to figure out where the curse originated and why.
This novel left me wanting more and I can't wait to read the next book.
March 30, 2014
I thought this was a great YA novel and would have loved to give a 4 star review however the beginning of the book was a little slow for me and it took me a little while to get into it. However once I did get into it I couldn't put it down or quit turning pages. It is greatly written and great read!
LJ makes a great strong female lead in the book. I love how in the beginning she seems like a spoiled little rich girl but you seen realize there is a lot more to her and her past is something a lot of people can relate to. To see the change in her though out the novel is great to read about.
Ben is also a strong lead character and is actually a lot different as far as leading male characters go from other novels that I have read. That to me is a good thing. Its nice to see something different.
TO read about how LJ and Ben grow close it seems almost like something that just happened and wasn't forced. Ben already knows about the supposed curse that is around the Stockton Estate even if he doesn't believe it. When he starts seeing the symptoms in LJ everything becomes real. LJ had no idea about any of it until late in the novel but once she does they join forces to figure out where the curse originated and why.
This novel left me wanting more and I can't wait to read the next book.
Reviewed by Melonie
LJ makes a great strong female lead in the book. I love how in the beginning she seems like a spoiled little rich girl but you seen realize there is a lot more to her and her past is something a lot of people can relate to. To see the change in her though out the novel is great to read about.
Ben is also a strong lead character and is actually a lot different as far as leading male characters go from other novels that I have read. That to me is a good thing. Its nice to see something different.
TO read about how LJ and Ben grow close it seems almost like something that just happened and wasn't forced. Ben already knows about the supposed curse that is around the Stockton Estate even if he doesn't believe it. When he starts seeing the symptoms in LJ everything becomes real. LJ had no idea about any of it until late in the novel but once she does they join forces to figure out where the curse originated and why.
This novel left me wanting more and I can't wait to read the next book.
Reviewed by Melonie
July 28, 2014
I love a good paranormal and The Line That Binds did not disappoint. A few chapters in I was hooked and I could put the book down. I finished in one night.
Seventeen year old Lila family moved to her aunt estate in Pennsylvania after her father loses his job. Here Lila can become a new person, someone she use to make fun of. Someone with no attitude and feelings. Lila meets Ben, a classmate and a worker on her aunts estate. Ben is keeping an eye on Lila to make sure she is not affected by a curse that is in her family.
Ben and Lila dig into her ancestry to discover more about the curse. During this time Ben and Lila grow close and begin to have feeling for each other.
Is this curse real or a joke? can Lila be saved from this curse? will Ben an Lila relationship work, or are there past to much to move forward?
This was a great book by J. M. Miller. I loved everything about it. The story and the characters were great. This book is a great mystery and keep me on my tows through the whole book. I just needed to figure out the mystery and the feeling that were growing between Ben and Lila. If you into paranormal or a great mystery you should read this book.
*ARC in exchange for an honest review*
April 10, 2015
Stained by heartache of past love and cursed with vengeance a stone wishing well that is located on a nineteenth century estate is just waiting for the Stockton heirs to wish again.
Lila is a 17 year old whose father has just lost his job and they move to the family's estate that has just been left to her, Her mother's sister Janine has passed away and has handed down the estate and the business located on it to Lila on her 18th birthday. Lila soon meets Ben he is the grounds keepers grandson and has also been willed a small home on the property. Ben fears that the new owners will begin to make drastic changes in the estate. He decides to make it his mission to figure out the new family's plans. He and his grandfather also feel it is their job to protect due to the alleged curse. Lila and Ben discover the estate secrets together and it begins to draw them closer. They have a connection that neither has yet fully discovered. The further they dig into the history of the estate the more they uncover that could ultimately destroy their relationship.
This is a wonderful book about young love and discovery. I can't wait for book 2.
~~Michele~~
January 18, 2014
This book took a while before I really got into it. The first half didn’t really catch my interest, but once it hooks you its a really great story. The chemistry between Ben and LJ is sizzling hot. Because it’s a YA the scenes didn’t get very detailed, but there is enough to leave you wanting more.
Both Ben and LJ are very developed and likeable characters. I found myself really liking both of them.
Even though this was categorized as a paranormal, there was very little in the way of paranormal. There are brief flashes here and there and references to a curse, but this book didn’t really seem paranormal to me. What it did have a was a cliffhanger and since I did get sucked into the story about halfway in, I am looking forward to the next book. I hope they go more into detail about the curse and what is happening to LJ.
I give this story 3.5 stars because it didn’t seem much like a paranormal and because it took me so long to get into it. If you can handle to slow beginning, then I’d recommend it to you. The second half really is good.
*This book was given to me from the author for an honest review.
Both Ben and LJ are very developed and likeable characters. I found myself really liking both of them.
Even though this was categorized as a paranormal, there was very little in the way of paranormal. There are brief flashes here and there and references to a curse, but this book didn’t really seem paranormal to me. What it did have a was a cliffhanger and since I did get sucked into the story about halfway in, I am looking forward to the next book. I hope they go more into detail about the curse and what is happening to LJ.
I give this story 3.5 stars because it didn’t seem much like a paranormal and because it took me so long to get into it. If you can handle to slow beginning, then I’d recommend it to you. The second half really is good.
*This book was given to me from the author for an honest review.
April 22, 2014
Stained by heartache of past love and cursed with vengeance a stone wishing well that is located on a nineteenth century estate is just waiting for the Stockton heirs to wish again.
Lila is a 17 year old whose father has just lost his job and they move to the family's estate that has just been left to her, Her mother's sister Janine has passed away and has handed down the estate and the business located on it to Lila on her 18th birthday.
Lila soon meets Ben he is the grounds keepers grandson and has also been willed a small home on the property. Ben fears that the new owners will begin to make drastic changes in the estate.
He decides to make it his mission to figure out the new family's plans. He and his grandfather also feel it is their job to protect due to the alleged curse. Lila and Ben discover the estate secrets together and it begins to draw them closer. They have a connection that neither has yet fully discovered. The further they dig into the history of the estate the more they uncover that could ultimately destroy their relationship.
This is a wonderful book about young love and discovery. I can't wait for book 2.
June 18, 2014
I LOVED this book. Part paranormal, part romance, part mystery--it has it all. LJ loses everything and then finds out she's inherited an old mansion left to her by a relative she hardly knew. Ben, works on the estate with his grandfather and isn't too thrilled about the LJ moving into the mansion and worries what will become of the estate when LJ becomes owner on her 18th birthday. These two flawed souls who are wary of each other start a friendship, but they can't deny the sparks that fly between them when they are together. Legend has it there is a curse attached to a well on the property and Ben, who's unsure if the curse is real or just a myth, tries to keep LJ away from the well. But when LJ comes in contact with the well, strange things start to happen. Swoon worthy, sexy scenes and likable leads makes this a must read! Well done! J.M. Miller. Can't wait to read the next installment.
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