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Three Irish Brothers #1
Beautiful Pain
My decisions were always wrong. I needed to get away from London, I wanted to start from scratch in Belfast, escape from the life that I didn’t want.
Working for Probation Service for the whole summer was going to give me the experience that I needed. I always felt much better when I could help people whose lives were shattered.
My parents told me that I wasn't ready and I wouldn't make it through but I was determined to show them that the past was behind me.
I had three months to forget about my bad memories, about the pain and my scars. Then I run straight into him, throwing it all to the wind, falling into a trap of love and lust.
Harry O’Donaghue was a local offender. At our first meeting he gave me the impression that he didn’t care about what I had to say and didn’t want to be evaluated by a stupid young girl like me.
Harry wasn’t an easy subject, either when it came to straight forward conversation about his future or about the crimes that he had committed.
Harry had a secret and everything suddenly became complicated. He was bad to be around, bad for me in every respect, but I still allowed him take me to paradise…
New Adult Contemporary Romance novel - contains adult situations, high sexuality, violence, suited for ages 17 and up*
Working for Probation Service for the whole summer was going to give me the experience that I needed. I always felt much better when I could help people whose lives were shattered.
My parents told me that I wasn't ready and I wouldn't make it through but I was determined to show them that the past was behind me.
I had three months to forget about my bad memories, about the pain and my scars. Then I run straight into him, throwing it all to the wind, falling into a trap of love and lust.
Harry O’Donaghue was a local offender. At our first meeting he gave me the impression that he didn’t care about what I had to say and didn’t want to be evaluated by a stupid young girl like me.
Harry wasn’t an easy subject, either when it came to straight forward conversation about his future or about the crimes that he had committed.
Harry had a secret and everything suddenly became complicated. He was bad to be around, bad for me in every respect, but I still allowed him take me to paradise…
New Adult Contemporary Romance novel - contains adult situations, high sexuality, violence, suited for ages 17 and up*
274 pages, Kindle Edition
First published September 2, 2013
22 people are currently reading
1144 people want to read
About the author
Joanna Mazurkiewicz
105 books782 followersJoanna Mazurkiewicz was born in Poland. She moved to United Kingdom when she was only nineteen and just finished high school. She had aspired to be a writer upon completion of the Harry Potter series but also enjoyed reading books like ‘Gone with the Wind’, ’Animal Farm’ and ‘The doll’. She graduated from Swansea University with a bachelor degree in American Studies. While studying in the UK she made a decision to start writing fiction in English.
The “Whispers of the Sprite” is her first debut novel and she is currently working on other projects. Joanna lives in Cowbridge, a small town in South Wales near Cardiff with her boyfriend Bruce. She enjoys cycling around Welsh countryside some of which has become the settings in her first series.
The “Whispers of the Sprite” is her first debut novel and she is currently working on other projects. Joanna lives in Cowbridge, a small town in South Wales near Cardiff with her boyfriend Bruce. She enjoys cycling around Welsh countryside some of which has become the settings in her first series.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 40 reviews
February 7, 2014
3 Harry & his Sophia Stars
A young woman carries the scars and the shame that comes with them. Her family's sins, their expectations and disapproval, a burden she can't handle.
A young man, driven to a life of crime by necessity. A noble criminal that his only fault was that he cared to much when everybody else around failed him.
A parole officer and a criminal. An undeniable attraction leads to a forbidden romance. Their pasts will haunt them. Sophia's parents are cruel and she won't let her follow her hearts and dreams. Harry's "grey", say the least, activities made him a marked men and a criminal with a conscience is a dead one.
Will they manage to overcome these obstacles. Will they surrender to love and trust in each other to heal and thrive?
A cute and somewhat heartbreaking story that moved me but didn't manage to WOW despite having all the elements to push all my buttons. Forbidden romance, scarred, innocent heroine, bad boy Irish hero. It all felt a little rushed to me and I couldn't connect with them. Sophia failed to come up as strong and independent and sometimes she was too naive and scared to like her.
Overall, even though I didn't love it, Harry was a sight for sore eyes and he is the main reason I liked this book. Satisfying somewhat epilogue that made me want to read the next (if there is one, because I can't seem to find it) just because Ramona RULES! and I am hoping that it will be her story...
A young woman carries the scars and the shame that comes with them. Her family's sins, their expectations and disapproval, a burden she can't handle.
A young man, driven to a life of crime by necessity. A noble criminal that his only fault was that he cared to much when everybody else around failed him.
A parole officer and a criminal. An undeniable attraction leads to a forbidden romance. Their pasts will haunt them. Sophia's parents are cruel and she won't let her follow her hearts and dreams. Harry's "grey", say the least, activities made him a marked men and a criminal with a conscience is a dead one.
Will they manage to overcome these obstacles. Will they surrender to love and trust in each other to heal and thrive?
A cute and somewhat heartbreaking story that moved me but didn't manage to WOW despite having all the elements to push all my buttons. Forbidden romance, scarred, innocent heroine, bad boy Irish hero. It all felt a little rushed to me and I couldn't connect with them. Sophia failed to come up as strong and independent and sometimes she was too naive and scared to like her.
Overall, even though I didn't love it, Harry was a sight for sore eyes and he is the main reason I liked this book. Satisfying somewhat epilogue that made me want to read the next (if there is one, because I can't seem to find it) just because Ramona RULES! and I am hoping that it will be her story...
December 3, 2016
This was exactly what I needed! Steamy forbidden romance with plenty of angst, lovable heroine and charismatic hero!!!
My Sophia and Harry:
When Sophia accepted summer job as a Probation Officer in Belfast, she saw it as perfect opportunity to get away from London and her overdemanding parents. What she never expected was how would this challenging experience change her vision of herself. After years of therapies and unresolved issues, men were never part of Sophia's life. What will she do when one of her "clients", attractive and rebellious Harry, starts to occupy her every waking thought?
Beautiful Pain is typical example of starcrossed lovers romance story. Who does not like to read about forbidden love?
Probation officer and her client.
Wealthy college student and criminal.
Unexperienced girl with issues and naughty boy.
Choose your pick, this book has it all. I really enjoyed reading it!
I loved grumpy and unapproachable Harry was at the beginning. There is nothing better than mysterious hero when it comes to romance stories. He was extremely charismatic character and I was glad that this book was written in dual POV so I got to see things from his perspective!
Sophia is lovely young woman who has really difficult time dealing with stress, pressure and problems. Maybe I wasn't ok with all her decisions, but she never annoyed me and my heart ached for her during various parts of this story.
I have to admit that this book was hard to put down. I loved the setting of this novel and I cannot wait to check other books by this author!
MORE REVIEWS ON MY BLOG Reading Is My Breathing
December 9, 2013
This book is about Sophia and her self-esteem problems. When I started this book, I knew it was going to be a sad book. Especially for someone who is a parent reading this book it is an eye opener. Every parent wants their children to succeed but sometimes you are so focused on what people will think and you don't pay attention to the child and their needs.
And this is what happened in this book. Sophia's parent's where to worried about keeping up with the family and friends and status to see what it was doing to her and she was the one who suffered.
She eventually gets help! And two years later she is working with people out of jail on probation cause she wants to help people. Obviously her parents do not agree with this and she gets a 3month summer job in Ireland, and that is where she meets Harry!
Harry is supposedly a drug dealer who meets Sophia as his Probation Officer and I think just fell inlove with her from the start cause he just couldn't stay away from her even though he thought that he didn't like her.
This book is about how Sophia gets back into the world and learning to accept herself for who she is and for letting someone else into her life who accepts her for who she is. And that was the hardest part for her, letting someone else in and showing someone else her weakness.
The author wrote this book full of emotion and drama and the issues being dealt with in this book is something that in this day and age is very relevant to everyone.
It was a good read for me.
I would recommend this book.
August 17, 2018
Also titled CUTTER.
I don't even remember if I finished this book or not. I looked at my notes for this book and I could not recall anything. My notes stated there was a lot of detail about everything. It gets two stars because I can't remember one thing about this book.
I don't even remember if I finished this book or not. I looked at my notes for this book and I could not recall anything. My notes stated there was a lot of detail about everything. It gets two stars because I can't remember one thing about this book.
December 16, 2015
Over dramatic drivel.
I've cooked pork chops steamier than this.
Forbidden? HA! More like "we shouldn't but this problem is easily fixed". Honestly I didn't get the whole forbidden aspect. If Sophie was just an honest girl her life would be so much easier. She never says what needs to be said and makes situations harder for herself. Not to mention if she is honest things wouldn't be such a big deal!
The writing style was ________. It felt childish and irritating and the different pov's were not done very well. Character and plot deviousness was incomplete and choppy.
What I disliked most: I've had a lot of foreign teachers before whose first language wasn't English. Words used in the wrong context, grammar and agreement were off and I tried to be understanding. But it was just too much. However, this isn't what affected my rating. The book was just bad. Plain and simple.
I've cooked pork chops steamier than this.
Forbidden? HA! More like "we shouldn't but this problem is easily fixed". Honestly I didn't get the whole forbidden aspect. If Sophie was just an honest girl her life would be so much easier. She never says what needs to be said and makes situations harder for herself. Not to mention if she is honest things wouldn't be such a big deal!
The writing style was ________. It felt childish and irritating and the different pov's were not done very well. Character and plot deviousness was incomplete and choppy.
What I disliked most: I've had a lot of foreign teachers before whose first language wasn't English. Words used in the wrong context, grammar and agreement were off and I tried to be understanding. But it was just too much. However, this isn't what affected my rating. The book was just bad. Plain and simple.
Want to read
September 21, 2013FREE today on Amazon US (9/21/2013).
http://www.amazon.com/Beautiful-Pain-...
April 30, 2014
On more than one occasion during this book I was ready to give up. I felt it was only fair to finish just in case it got better. Unfortunately it didnt, even the ending was flat. The plot sounded interesting but the writing was very monotonous and robotic. I'm sorry and feel bad writing this review but I wish someone had advised me to avoid it.
September 29, 2013
So I'm sitting here wondering a lot about this book. I am wondering why this book is receiving 5 stars from reviewers and it's making me question what I might have missed. But then shaking that thought out of my head I know I missed nothing and I certainly didn't miss the plentitude of grammatical errors, usage of tense errors and whole words missing in places. This is mostly where I find it so hard to believe that it's receiving 5 stars. Considering how appealing the book cover is and the synopsis I jumped on this book straight away and was especially doing a happy dance because it was free. To be brutally honest now though, I would have been so disappointed if I had paid money for it.
The actual story is well thought out, I am however saddened by the deliverance. This book if it had passed through beta readers and proof readers it would most definitely be a massively bigger hit than it is.
Another point is why couldn't Joanna (the author) called Sophia's mum - mum? She would be introduced as mum and then called Michelle? I don't think I've ever seen this done before. Even her dad was called dad and not written with his Christian name so why wasn't Michelle called mum all the time? I was waiting for the story to say that she wasn't her real mum or something to justify it. Here's an example:- 'Sophia wasn’t going to tell her mother that Jessica was only able to paint when she was high on cocaine. Michelle wouldn’t believe her,' surely that should have read - her mother wouldn't believe her? This happened all the time. In my eyes those interactions didn't read right at all and it brought the story down along with the other mistakes.
Then there were places where words were added that didn't relate to the conversation that was going on:- for example - "Oh, Sophia how nice to see you. Come on in," said her Auntie Julie beaming......... then the reply is:- "Good, I heard that Ramona was back?" Why the heck is she replying good? She hadn't been asked how she was! Arghhhhh makes you think you've drunk too much vino and imagining stuff, having to re-read several passages because of these errors was frustrating to say the least.
So I found the mistakes tedious and annoying and it was affecting how I was perceiving Sophia and Harry's story. Because of this I honestly did have trouble fully connecting with them both and this left me feeling stripped of having any emotions with them.
Potentially this could have been a pretty darn fine read of this genre, sadly for me I can only review it as mediocre read, that if re-edited and partially re-written it would then become an interesting and engaging read. To be honest I am not sure if I want to read on about Lennox or Maxwell.
The actual story is well thought out, I am however saddened by the deliverance. This book if it had passed through beta readers and proof readers it would most definitely be a massively bigger hit than it is.
Another point is why couldn't Joanna (the author) called Sophia's mum - mum? She would be introduced as mum and then called Michelle? I don't think I've ever seen this done before. Even her dad was called dad and not written with his Christian name so why wasn't Michelle called mum all the time? I was waiting for the story to say that she wasn't her real mum or something to justify it. Here's an example:- 'Sophia wasn’t going to tell her mother that Jessica was only able to paint when she was high on cocaine. Michelle wouldn’t believe her,' surely that should have read - her mother wouldn't believe her? This happened all the time. In my eyes those interactions didn't read right at all and it brought the story down along with the other mistakes.
Then there were places where words were added that didn't relate to the conversation that was going on:- for example - "Oh, Sophia how nice to see you. Come on in," said her Auntie Julie beaming......... then the reply is:- "Good, I heard that Ramona was back?" Why the heck is she replying good? She hadn't been asked how she was! Arghhhhh makes you think you've drunk too much vino and imagining stuff, having to re-read several passages because of these errors was frustrating to say the least.
So I found the mistakes tedious and annoying and it was affecting how I was perceiving Sophia and Harry's story. Because of this I honestly did have trouble fully connecting with them both and this left me feeling stripped of having any emotions with them.
Potentially this could have been a pretty darn fine read of this genre, sadly for me I can only review it as mediocre read, that if re-edited and partially re-written it would then become an interesting and engaging read. To be honest I am not sure if I want to read on about Lennox or Maxwell.
Want to read
September 9, 2013Hmm this sounds "different"... I'm intrigued...
My decisions were always wrong. I needed to get away from London, I wanted to start from scratch in Belfast, escape from the life that I didn’t want.
Working for Probation Service for the whole summer was going to give me the experience that I needed. I always felt much better when I could help people whose lives were shattered.
My parents told me that I wasn't ready and I wouldn't make it through but I was determined to show them that the past was behind me.
I had three months to forget about my bad memories, about the pain and my scars. Then I run straight into him, throwing it all to the wind, falling into a trap of love and lust.
Harry O’Donaghue was a local offender. At our first meeting he gave me the impression that he didn’t care about what I had to say and didn’t want to be evaluated by a stupid young girl like me.
Harry wasn’t an easy subject, either when it came to straight forward conversation about his future or about the crimes that he had committed.
Harry had a secret and everything suddenly became complicated. He was bad to be around, bad for me in every respect, but I still allowed him take me to paradise…
New Adult Contemporary Romance novel - contains adult situations, high sexuality, violence, suited for ages 17 and up
My decisions were always wrong. I needed to get away from London, I wanted to start from scratch in Belfast, escape from the life that I didn’t want.
Working for Probation Service for the whole summer was going to give me the experience that I needed. I always felt much better when I could help people whose lives were shattered.
My parents told me that I wasn't ready and I wouldn't make it through but I was determined to show them that the past was behind me.
I had three months to forget about my bad memories, about the pain and my scars. Then I run straight into him, throwing it all to the wind, falling into a trap of love and lust.
Harry O’Donaghue was a local offender. At our first meeting he gave me the impression that he didn’t care about what I had to say and didn’t want to be evaluated by a stupid young girl like me.
Harry wasn’t an easy subject, either when it came to straight forward conversation about his future or about the crimes that he had committed.
Harry had a secret and everything suddenly became complicated. He was bad to be around, bad for me in every respect, but I still allowed him take me to paradise…
New Adult Contemporary Romance novel - contains adult situations, high sexuality, violence, suited for ages 17 and up
December 8, 2013
Self- esteem ... so easily damaged. As parents, we have to be aware how our interactions with our children affects their self-value. We need to nurture our children and listen to them. We need to pay attention to their pain. It is real and nothing to ignore.
This book deals with the devastation and redemption of a girl who is a cutter. She cuts her stomach and thighs seeking an outlet through pain, for the pain she feels as her parents constantly criticize her. She is forever being compared to one of her cousins and is made to feel worthless and unloved.
Sophia's fragile self-esteem leads her to a crisis point. After therapy, she is determined to make her own decisions and to escape the toxic atmosphere at home. When she meets Harry the attraction is immediate. They are drawn to each other and there is nothing either one of them can do to prevent them from falling in love.
The author has developed a story here full of emotion. The issue of girls cutting themselves due to low self-esteem is one that is very prevalent in our society. She has dealt with the subject matter in a subtle and sensitive way. It is high time we become more aware of this issue and provide support for those who are suffering.
Enjoyed reading this book.
This book deals with the devastation and redemption of a girl who is a cutter. She cuts her stomach and thighs seeking an outlet through pain, for the pain she feels as her parents constantly criticize her. She is forever being compared to one of her cousins and is made to feel worthless and unloved.
Sophia's fragile self-esteem leads her to a crisis point. After therapy, she is determined to make her own decisions and to escape the toxic atmosphere at home. When she meets Harry the attraction is immediate. They are drawn to each other and there is nothing either one of them can do to prevent them from falling in love.
The author has developed a story here full of emotion. The issue of girls cutting themselves due to low self-esteem is one that is very prevalent in our society. She has dealt with the subject matter in a subtle and sensitive way. It is high time we become more aware of this issue and provide support for those who are suffering.
Enjoyed reading this book.
Want to read
December 5, 2013**ARC provided by the author in exchange for an honest review.**
February 4, 2025
Didn't finish 😕
March 12, 2017
This is a deep, dark, emotionally twisted, angst-y drama with a romance wrapped in the middle. The subject matter makes for some very difficult reading at times. I was impressed with Sophia's willingness to face and battle her demons. Harry is the best kind of Robin Hood sort of bad boy out there: a Noble Criminal who's only doing what he has to in order to look after the family he cares for. My biggest complaint is that the pacing isn't consistent. There's a gentle build up in the beginning, a slow ratcheting up of the tension through the rest of the book, then the unnatural disaster right before the end, and the happily-ever-after feels like an afterthought. For me, the ending came about too easily. I'm not suggesting that more should have gone wrong for Sophia and Harry, but I was expecting them to have to work for it a little harder.
March 12, 2017
Temp summer job Parole Board Belfast..INDEPENDENCE
This book totally engrossed me. I found the story riveting and I couldn't stop thinking about the book when I had to put it down (reluctantly).
Sophia always tries to be perfect. She has always let her parents control her life and make all the decisions in it for her.
At 22 she goes to work in Belfast for the summer. Not her father's business in London like he has dictated.
She has a fill in job with the Parole Board there.
She develops a relationship with Harry. Which was interesting to watch develop.
I recommend this contemporary romance.
The author is new to me. Mi am voluntarily reviewing a courtesy copy.
I look forward to reading more books of hers in the future. I hope to read more about Sophia and her adventures. Plus her family and friends.
This book totally engrossed me. I found the story riveting and I couldn't stop thinking about the book when I had to put it down (reluctantly).
Sophia always tries to be perfect. She has always let her parents control her life and make all the decisions in it for her.
At 22 she goes to work in Belfast for the summer. Not her father's business in London like he has dictated.
She has a fill in job with the Parole Board there.
She develops a relationship with Harry. Which was interesting to watch develop.
I recommend this contemporary romance.
The author is new to me. Mi am voluntarily reviewing a courtesy copy.
I look forward to reading more books of hers in the future. I hope to read more about Sophia and her adventures. Plus her family and friends.
March 7, 2017
Breathtakingly beautiful...
When Sophia is offered a job in Belfast, she jumps at the chance to escape London, her controlling parents and dark past. She can't wait to start a new life and be free; even if it's only for three months.
She enjoys her job as a probation officer; helping people masks the pain and anxiety from her past. Everything changes when she meets Harry O'Donahue. It's certainly not anxiety; it's an overwhelming forbidden attraction she's never felt before. He could be the end of her hopes and dreams or the beginning.
Sophia suffers from a series of betrayals and heartache, but in the end she learns where her true strength lies. Will it be with Harry in Belfast or another life in London? You have to read and find out!
I loved everything about this book. Breathtaking scenes to heart wrenching sadness. Joanna writes with such passion, you feel her characters emotions; you feel their pain and their happiness. The ending will take your breath away. One scene in particular... I'll never forget it! This is an absolute must-read! 5 stars!
When Sophia is offered a job in Belfast, she jumps at the chance to escape London, her controlling parents and dark past. She can't wait to start a new life and be free; even if it's only for three months.
She enjoys her job as a probation officer; helping people masks the pain and anxiety from her past. Everything changes when she meets Harry O'Donahue. It's certainly not anxiety; it's an overwhelming forbidden attraction she's never felt before. He could be the end of her hopes and dreams or the beginning.
Sophia suffers from a series of betrayals and heartache, but in the end she learns where her true strength lies. Will it be with Harry in Belfast or another life in London? You have to read and find out!
I loved everything about this book. Breathtaking scenes to heart wrenching sadness. Joanna writes with such passion, you feel her characters emotions; you feel their pain and their happiness. The ending will take your breath away. One scene in particular... I'll never forget it! This is an absolute must-read! 5 stars!
March 10, 2017
On the fence about this one.
I liked this book but yet I didn't like it. I don't normally like books written in "English", and i didn't care for it in this book either. I liked the story itself but I think the delivery could of been a little better. I received an arc copy to review and this is my voluntary review.
I liked this book but yet I didn't like it. I don't normally like books written in "English", and i didn't care for it in this book either. I liked the story itself but I think the delivery could of been a little better. I received an arc copy to review and this is my voluntary review.
November 3, 2013
Sophia has always been a good and obedient daughter, but it is the summer before her final year of university, and she’s decided that she doesn’t want to do what her parents’ want her to do. Rejecting her father’s demand to work at his firm for the summer, Sophia finds herself a three-month posting in Belfast’s Probationary Services—giving her the time to gain her confidence without her parents’ breathing down her neck.
On her first day of shadowing a work colleague, Sophia meets Harry—a bad-boy with a soft Irish lilt to his voice that instantly takes a disliking to Sophia. The animosity between them is palpable, and Sophie regrets the day that she’ll have to have him in her case load. But what Sophia doesn’t know is that Harry doesn’t dislike her; he is instantly attracted to her.
The more closely Sophia works with Harry, the more she gets to know him, and the more she realizes that being in his company and having his touch calms her frayed nerves and helps to keep her buoyant against the tide of anxiety that sometimes creeps up on her expectantly.
Knowing that he’s bad for her, Sophia’s opinion is cemented when she sees Harry involved in a drug deal. Torn between wanting him and doing the right thing, Harry convinces her to get to know him a little better so she can understand him and why he’s doing what he’s doing.
Their relationship blooms and flourishes with Sophia letting Harry know more and more about her dark and haunted past. She lets him see her scars after a horrific accident threatens to tear them apart, and it’s this honesty and baring of her soul that lets her see just how much Harry means to her.
A cruel twist of fate separates them, and despite Sophia’s best efforts to protect Harry and his family, she can see no way out of the situation. She chooses to protect him and sacrifice her own happiness until a solution she didn’t think was possible presents itself.
I found myself unable to put this book down despite the grammatical and spelling inconsistencies. I had a connection with Sophia and her determination to live her life the way she wants to. Sophia and Harry’s relationship may have started off rocky, but the chemistry between them is real. I liked the fact that Sophia had integrity and thought about the repercussions of her and Harry’s relationship, knowing that her whole career would be jeopardized should they ever be found out. And even then, she’s willing to give it all up because of how Harry makes her feel: calm and in control.
I’m giving this book three stars as the stilted language and lack of contraction is speech detracted from the writing style. And it was this underdeveloped writing style that stopped me from enjoying it more. The plot, storyline and pacing was great; it was just the delivery that let it down. I would have also liked to have seen some clearer distinctions between the present and flashbacks Sophia had about her past. Without a change in font or tense, I found it difficult to follow the storyline in some places.
On her first day of shadowing a work colleague, Sophia meets Harry—a bad-boy with a soft Irish lilt to his voice that instantly takes a disliking to Sophia. The animosity between them is palpable, and Sophie regrets the day that she’ll have to have him in her case load. But what Sophia doesn’t know is that Harry doesn’t dislike her; he is instantly attracted to her.
The more closely Sophia works with Harry, the more she gets to know him, and the more she realizes that being in his company and having his touch calms her frayed nerves and helps to keep her buoyant against the tide of anxiety that sometimes creeps up on her expectantly.
Knowing that he’s bad for her, Sophia’s opinion is cemented when she sees Harry involved in a drug deal. Torn between wanting him and doing the right thing, Harry convinces her to get to know him a little better so she can understand him and why he’s doing what he’s doing.
Their relationship blooms and flourishes with Sophia letting Harry know more and more about her dark and haunted past. She lets him see her scars after a horrific accident threatens to tear them apart, and it’s this honesty and baring of her soul that lets her see just how much Harry means to her.
A cruel twist of fate separates them, and despite Sophia’s best efforts to protect Harry and his family, she can see no way out of the situation. She chooses to protect him and sacrifice her own happiness until a solution she didn’t think was possible presents itself.
I found myself unable to put this book down despite the grammatical and spelling inconsistencies. I had a connection with Sophia and her determination to live her life the way she wants to. Sophia and Harry’s relationship may have started off rocky, but the chemistry between them is real. I liked the fact that Sophia had integrity and thought about the repercussions of her and Harry’s relationship, knowing that her whole career would be jeopardized should they ever be found out. And even then, she’s willing to give it all up because of how Harry makes her feel: calm and in control.
I’m giving this book three stars as the stilted language and lack of contraction is speech detracted from the writing style. And it was this underdeveloped writing style that stopped me from enjoying it more. The plot, storyline and pacing was great; it was just the delivery that let it down. I would have also liked to have seen some clearer distinctions between the present and flashbacks Sophia had about her past. Without a change in font or tense, I found it difficult to follow the storyline in some places.
November 21, 2013
Learning is not gained from just personal experience alone but rather from experiences shared out loud.
Beautiful Pain offers such an experience through the voice of Sophie , a young woman who sought solace and peace from her inner turmoil through cutting, inflicting physical harm to herself in order to relieve emotional pain. As a teenager, Sophie felt rejected by her parents; she felt she could never be good enough to get their approval. What she wanted for herself and what her parents wanted for her were at odds with the other. Thus Sophie internalized her hurt and disappointment to the point of becoming anxious and feeling as though she would explode . She resorted to cutting as a way of relieving the anxiety and panic attacks. The act of cutting alleviated her anxiety and panic, allowed her to breath and was in her mind more beautiful than painful. Beautiful Pain is a moving tale that gives plausible insight to underlying reasons for self harm through cutting.
In the moment choices are made based on knowledge available at a given time. Beautiful Pain is a conduit to learning and understanding human vulnerabilities and alternative coping mechanisms.
It is a tale of how love and acceptance can be a healing balm as demonstrated through the lives of Sophie, parole officer and Harry , offender. Against the odds of rich girl/poor boy; parole officer/offender; Sophie and Harry choose their convictions. I enjoyed this story of innocence and finding love in the unlikeliest place where when one leaps there is a promise to catch them.
Beautiful Pain offers such an experience through the voice of Sophie , a young woman who sought solace and peace from her inner turmoil through cutting, inflicting physical harm to herself in order to relieve emotional pain. As a teenager, Sophie felt rejected by her parents; she felt she could never be good enough to get their approval. What she wanted for herself and what her parents wanted for her were at odds with the other. Thus Sophie internalized her hurt and disappointment to the point of becoming anxious and feeling as though she would explode . She resorted to cutting as a way of relieving the anxiety and panic attacks. The act of cutting alleviated her anxiety and panic, allowed her to breath and was in her mind more beautiful than painful. Beautiful Pain is a moving tale that gives plausible insight to underlying reasons for self harm through cutting.
In the moment choices are made based on knowledge available at a given time. Beautiful Pain is a conduit to learning and understanding human vulnerabilities and alternative coping mechanisms.
It is a tale of how love and acceptance can be a healing balm as demonstrated through the lives of Sophie, parole officer and Harry , offender. Against the odds of rich girl/poor boy; parole officer/offender; Sophie and Harry choose their convictions. I enjoyed this story of innocence and finding love in the unlikeliest place where when one leaps there is a promise to catch them.
June 22, 2015
Tengo que decir que el tema que toca es algo sensible, lo digo por experiencia no es para todas las personas y muchas veces no se puede ser imparcial respecto a ello. Después de todo no todos hemos vivido lo mismo o afrontamos la vida igual. Me gustaron los personajes(Sophie, no es especialmente una chica que patee culos pero tampoco es la típica arrastrada; sencillamente ha estado encerrada en un burbuja por demasiado tiempo, haciendo lo que todos quieren)Harry ( Awww, me encanto digamos que al principio no lo tenia bien definido, es decir, el chico es una contradicción andante pero progresa cambia, no de una pero poco a poco, el escenario (vamos que la cuidad donde la autora ha desarrollado la historia, aunque no la conozco, le ha dado más realismo a la cosa)
Lo que no me gusto fue primero los flash-back, valen eran necesarios lo pillo pero había partes donde no eran necesarios mientras que en otras si,
En fin esperare el segundo libro, definitivamente quiero saber más de Ramona XD
Lo que no me gusto fue primero los flash-back, valen eran necesarios lo pillo pero había partes donde no eran necesarios mientras que en otras si,
En fin esperare el segundo libro, definitivamente quiero saber más de Ramona XD
December 12, 2013
I received this book from the author for a honest review
This story is about. Sophia and Harry
Sophia is the girl who never felt good enough. Who never felt loved. The girl who's parents made her feel like even her very best wasn't good enough. They put her dreams and aspirations down. When they should have supported her dreams. As a result from that Sophia found relief from the pressures in her life in a very unhealthy way.
One summer she goes away for a job opportunity and meets Harry. And for the first time in her life. She is able to feel something positive. She slowly starts to gain self worth. She starts to realize that sometimes you just need something or someone to hold on to.
The only issue is Harry is the wrong person. He could jeopardize everything. Or she could gain everything.
This was a good read. I enjoyed the story. And would be willing to read the stories of the other two Irish boys !!!
This story is about. Sophia and Harry
Sophia is the girl who never felt good enough. Who never felt loved. The girl who's parents made her feel like even her very best wasn't good enough. They put her dreams and aspirations down. When they should have supported her dreams. As a result from that Sophia found relief from the pressures in her life in a very unhealthy way.
One summer she goes away for a job opportunity and meets Harry. And for the first time in her life. She is able to feel something positive. She slowly starts to gain self worth. She starts to realize that sometimes you just need something or someone to hold on to.
The only issue is Harry is the wrong person. He could jeopardize everything. Or she could gain everything.
This was a good read. I enjoyed the story. And would be willing to read the stories of the other two Irish boys !!!
December 20, 2013
I really enjoyed reading this book. There's a lot of emotion between the characters and it hits home with what Sophia goes through especially if you have children.
Sophia used to cut herself because all her parents cared about was looking perfect in their social circle. After being clean for 2 years she decides to go to Belfast for 3 months and live with her friend Vanessa. She ends up working with people who are on probation to help them. That's when she meets Harry. Harry was convicted of dealing drugs. There is an instant attraction to each other when they first meet.
Sophia doesn't like being vulnerable and has a hard time letting Harry in because of her past and her scars. Her parents aren't happy when they find out shes with a convicted felon and it causes problems between her and Harry.
This story really did touch my heart and opens my eyes as a parent. I really want to thank Joanna Mazurkiewicz for allowing me to read and review this story.
Sophia used to cut herself because all her parents cared about was looking perfect in their social circle. After being clean for 2 years she decides to go to Belfast for 3 months and live with her friend Vanessa. She ends up working with people who are on probation to help them. That's when she meets Harry. Harry was convicted of dealing drugs. There is an instant attraction to each other when they first meet.
Sophia doesn't like being vulnerable and has a hard time letting Harry in because of her past and her scars. Her parents aren't happy when they find out shes with a convicted felon and it causes problems between her and Harry.
This story really did touch my heart and opens my eyes as a parent. I really want to thank Joanna Mazurkiewicz for allowing me to read and review this story.
January 16, 2014
Sophia wanted to escape from her life in Boston. From her parents. Her past. She took up a temporary job in Belfast as a probation officer. That's where she meets Harry. The bad boy. The guy she needs to stay away from or she may screw up her career. A probation officer can't have a relationship with an offender. Harry has his own problems. Being on probation after getting arrested with possession of drugs she is also taking care of his ailing mother. Their attraction is too strong and she finds she is being drawn to Harry. She doesn't want to get to close because she's afraid of rejection. Afraid of what Harry will think when he finds out what she did in the past.
I enjoyed this book. It had a good storyline. The characters were developed well. I just felt like that there wasn't anything extraordinary about the book. It's like one of those movies that you would watch once and enjoy but wouldn't watch again.
I enjoyed this book. It had a good storyline. The characters were developed well. I just felt like that there wasn't anything extraordinary about the book. It's like one of those movies that you would watch once and enjoy but wouldn't watch again.
December 5, 2013
I gave this book 4*, mostly to the plot line; i love stories about bad boys going right. There quite a few grammatical errors through the book, i.e missing words. At times the emotions that should of been portrayed didn't seem to come across; there were parts of the story that i felt i should be crying at but i wasn't connected to this book. I would definitely recommend for others to give the book a try, the plot line is good and the characters are likable. The steamy situations were skimmed over and a lot of details were left out (i like steamy books......). The ending was very good and it left the author open for a book between Lennox and Sophia's cousin Romana.... Hopefully!! i think i would enjoy that book xx
December 17, 2013
I would like to thank the author for this book. This is my first time to read her works and i'm glad i did..This is the story about a broken girl whose coping mechanism in dealing with her parent's pressure is to self inflict and a responsible boy who has to sacrifice temporarily his dreams to care for his mother, a quality i find very endearing. Together, they are able to fight and overcome their respective demons. Sophie's story has me thinking that as a mother myself, that maybe i need to re-evaluate the way i'm dealing with my kids. I like her writing style. I actually felt the raw emotions being depicted by the characters. The story was very gripping. I'm so anxious about what will happen next. Well done Ms. Joanna!
August 11, 2016
3 1/2 Stars
Sophia leaves everything she's ever known behind to moved to Ireland and work for a probation office. This is where she meets Harry who was put away for drug charges.
We learn in the very beginning how Sophia is looked down upon because she's not as talented as her cousin, we watch her self esteem drop in the many flashbacks and we see her release all that pent up stress by cutting.
I think it was a really great powerful book, with a deep message. I really liked her and Harry together and how he brought her out of her shell more.
The only thing that bothered my was the writing, I'm not a fan of Sophie did this Harry did that. I'm more of a first person where they tell it from their perspective personally preference though !
Overall very good book!
Sophia leaves everything she's ever known behind to moved to Ireland and work for a probation office. This is where she meets Harry who was put away for drug charges.
We learn in the very beginning how Sophia is looked down upon because she's not as talented as her cousin, we watch her self esteem drop in the many flashbacks and we see her release all that pent up stress by cutting.
I think it was a really great powerful book, with a deep message. I really liked her and Harry together and how he brought her out of her shell more.
The only thing that bothered my was the writing, I'm not a fan of Sophie did this Harry did that. I'm more of a first person where they tell it from their perspective personally preference though !
Overall very good book!
March 17, 2014
**ARC**. Recieved for a honest review. Sophia was never the perfect daughter and her parent always let her know. It was time for to be on her own. Sophie needed to get away, far away to live her own life. It had been 2 years since things changed and she was stronger and ready to prove to herself and her parents.
Harry was on probation for something he never thought he would be doing. But he has to step up and take care of his mum. By the twist of "love story" fate, Sophie is assigned to Harry's case. I wanted to like this book more but I felt like it got confusing at times. The story is good and fresh but the writing is a little raw. I felt it just needed a little something more.
Harry was on probation for something he never thought he would be doing. But he has to step up and take care of his mum. By the twist of "love story" fate, Sophie is assigned to Harry's case. I wanted to like this book more but I felt like it got confusing at times. The story is good and fresh but the writing is a little raw. I felt it just needed a little something more.
November 4, 2014
I would have rated this higher as I was enjoying the story but I thought that the ending was a bit too quick - everything magically fell together right at the end without enough work. One other annoyance (and am not sure if this was just the format I read or if they are all like this) was the lack of demarcation when a flashback was introduced. Italics would have helped I think.
But the story of Sophia and her "beautiful pain" was well put together and enjoyable. I liked the setting, the characters, and the plot. I am likely to continue on with the series.
But the story of Sophia and her "beautiful pain" was well put together and enjoyable. I liked the setting, the characters, and the plot. I am likely to continue on with the series.
January 8, 2014
I really liked this story. I want to give the book a 31/2 stars. I think I loved this story the most because of Harry, he's hot, he's Irish (yummy accent.. really who in there right mind doesn't get hot about an English/Irish accent hmm?).. sorry I got side tracked. He's also smart and loves his mom (again who doesn't love a man who respects his mom).
The part of the book that drove me nuts was that it read like a text book a little. I feel like it needs another good editing. I feel like this story was really good.
The part of the book that drove me nuts was that it read like a text book a little. I feel like it needs another good editing. I feel like this story was really good.
September 4, 2013
A great young adult book with strong characters.
Sophia is a young woman with some emotional baggage that needs to make an independent start by leaving London and heading to Ireland. Harry is a bad boy with his own problems who just needs someone who understands him. Rounding out a good story with a group of supportive characters, friends and foes, emotional turns and twists culminating is a fantastic ending.
Looking forward to reading more from this author.
Sophia is a young woman with some emotional baggage that needs to make an independent start by leaving London and heading to Ireland. Harry is a bad boy with his own problems who just needs someone who understands him. Rounding out a good story with a group of supportive characters, friends and foes, emotional turns and twists culminating is a fantastic ending.
Looking forward to reading more from this author.
April 25, 2016
This book was very intriguing, I have never read about a probation officer before so I got to learn some new things. The plot and romance in the book were every well put together, even though it was a little depressing. You can clearly understand the main character's pain and depression and why she does what she does. Also you can see her get stronger and better. But with the main love interest, I could picture him VERY clearly and that beautiful accent!
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