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Yours to Keep
Serena Bell makes her Loveswept debut with the captivating story of a woman living on the edge—and the man who’s destined to love her.
Ana Travares has been looking over her shoulder her whole life. Her U.S. visa expired when she was a young girl, and if her secret is discovered, she’ll be forced to return to the Dominican Republic. Ana allowed herself to get close to someone once before—and after he broke her heart, she swore never to make the same mistake again. But when a handsome doctor asks for her assistance, she fantasizes about breaking all her rules.
Even though pediatrician Ethan Hansen is a natural when it comes to little kids, as the single father of a teenage son he just can’t seem to get it right . . . except for the Spanish tutor he’s hired for his son, Theo. Ana has managed to crack Theo’s shell—and he isn’t the only one taken with her. The sexy tutor has fired up Ethan with a potent mix of lust and protectiveness. But as he starts to envision a future with Ana, Ethan is devastated to learn the truth about her citizenship. Somehow he’s got to find a way to help her—and hold on to the woman he’s falling hopelessly in love with.
Includes a special message from the editor, as well as excerpts from these Loveswept titles: Accidental Cowgirl, After the Kiss, and Blue Lines.
Ana Travares has been looking over her shoulder her whole life. Her U.S. visa expired when she was a young girl, and if her secret is discovered, she’ll be forced to return to the Dominican Republic. Ana allowed herself to get close to someone once before—and after he broke her heart, she swore never to make the same mistake again. But when a handsome doctor asks for her assistance, she fantasizes about breaking all her rules.
Even though pediatrician Ethan Hansen is a natural when it comes to little kids, as the single father of a teenage son he just can’t seem to get it right . . . except for the Spanish tutor he’s hired for his son, Theo. Ana has managed to crack Theo’s shell—and he isn’t the only one taken with her. The sexy tutor has fired up Ethan with a potent mix of lust and protectiveness. But as he starts to envision a future with Ana, Ethan is devastated to learn the truth about her citizenship. Somehow he’s got to find a way to help her—and hold on to the woman he’s falling hopelessly in love with.
Includes a special message from the editor, as well as excerpts from these Loveswept titles: Accidental Cowgirl, After the Kiss, and Blue Lines.
323 pages, Kindle Edition
First published January 1, 2013
12 people are currently reading
731 people want to read
About the author
Serena Bell
54 books748 followersNewest Release!
USA Today bestselling author Serena Bell writes contemporary romance with heat, heart, and humor. A former journalist, Serena has always believed that everyone has an amazing story to tell if you listen carefully, and you can often find her scribbling in her tiny garret office, mainlining chocolate and bringing to life the tales in her head.
Serena’s books have earned many honors, including an RT Reviewers’ Choice Award, Apple Books Best Book of the Month, and Amazon Best Book of the Year for Romance.
When not writing, Serena loves to spend time with her college-sweetheart husband and two hilarious kiddos—all of whom are incredibly tolerant not just of Serena’s imaginary friends but also of how often she changes her hobbies and how passionately she embraces the new ones. These days, it’s stand-up paddle boarding, board-gaming, meditation, and long walks with good friends.
Sign up for new release updates here! http://www.serenabell.com/newsletter
USA Today bestselling author Serena Bell writes contemporary romance with heat, heart, and humor. A former journalist, Serena has always believed that everyone has an amazing story to tell if you listen carefully, and you can often find her scribbling in her tiny garret office, mainlining chocolate and bringing to life the tales in her head.
Serena’s books have earned many honors, including an RT Reviewers’ Choice Award, Apple Books Best Book of the Month, and Amazon Best Book of the Year for Romance.
When not writing, Serena loves to spend time with her college-sweetheart husband and two hilarious kiddos—all of whom are incredibly tolerant not just of Serena’s imaginary friends but also of how often she changes her hobbies and how passionately she embraces the new ones. These days, it’s stand-up paddle boarding, board-gaming, meditation, and long walks with good friends.
Sign up for new release updates here! http://www.serenabell.com/newsletter
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 122 reviews
November 12, 2013
I’m pretty disappointed with this one. The quick set-up is that the hero Ethan is a widower with a teenage son and they don’t have a great relationship. He is a pediatrician and he realizes he needs a spanish tutor for his son. Enter the heroine. Ana is an illegal immigrant from the Dominican Republic. She came over at the age of seven on her father’s work visa, but then her father never actually came and her mother died, and she just got away with being in the country. She is fearful of being caught and recently had to leave her teaching job. Ethan asks her to be his son’s tutor, and a romance develops. She keeps her secret of being illegal from him at the beginning.
When I heard this book had a heroine who is an illegal immigrant it definitely got my notice. I also really enjoyed this author’s two previous novellas. But from the start this hero rubbed me the wrong way. He stereotypes and judges women and I could barely stand it. Like when he refers to another school mom:
He knew perfectly well she was married. Most of the women in Beacon were. Which didn’t stop them from flirting; it only stopped him from flirting back.
The non-flirting on his part wasn’t sexual deadness, not by any stretch. He could appreciate the glories of Beacon’s stay-at-home moms just fine from a visual perspective – expensively colored and straightened hair, subtly applied makeup , bodies finely tuned through obsessive, boredom-induced exercise.
Well I am so glad Ethan could appreciate and stereo-type and judge these women. Thanks so much Ethan.
And when he first meets Ana, thank goodness she is dressed in a manner that doesn’t fall into his stereo-type!
She wore battered sneakers, not new leather boots like the mommies, and carried an equally battered backpack – not an expensive handbag. And she hadn’t flirted, which filled him with relief and, perversely, a need to win her interest.
See, what strikes me funny here is that he has a lot of money. He is a doctor. He lives in a big fancy house and drives a fancy car. But I guess he can, just not the other women in his town? The ‘mommies’ are not allowed to show wealth because that means they fall into the flirting category?
And you ask – why does he call the desperate housewives, ‘mommies?’ Let me show you an example of Ethan’s mindset again:
Desperate mommies were an occupational hazard, like parents who asked him pediatric questions at awkward moments. They were usually the mothers of infants or toddlers. They felt ugly and unattractive because of post-pregnancy body changes, insecure because dynamics in their household had shifted radically, and bored because they were smart and highly educated but they’d been forced to spend long hours playing Candy Land and watching Sesame Street. It all added up to a terrible case of frustration, and he was, unfortunately, an outlet.
He felt sorry for them. Actually, he hurt for them, partially because he remembered when Trish went through a similar phase. But that didn’t keep him from maintaining a safe distance – as much for their own good as his.
*Mandi starts to rip her hair out*
I can’t with this mind-set!! This hero is SO judgmental. SO condescending toward women. I’m so glad he is so valiant and can find the strength to keep away from these women who are so bored by being MOTHERS that the only thing they can do is throw themselves at him. Because right – our kids bore us and we never want to play with them and getting our hair done and buying new fancy shoes is just not fulfilling. Might as well try to cheat on our husbands too. Oh and don’t forget we aren’t proud of our post-pregnancy bodies.
This is not a hero that I want to see fall in love. Ana needs to run in the other direction. But she falls directly into his trap.
“You’re too sexy for your own good. That’s why the mommies all want to be around you.”
The brake light of the car in front of them flared, coloring their faces. He laughed. “Yeah, right.”
“You are!” She briefly let her hand rest on his arm, and, primed as he was, even that was enough to make his cock feel heavy.
“I don’t’ think so. I think it’s a rescue thing. Everyone wants to be rescued. The mommies want to be rescued from their lives of drudgery. I’m just a convenient superhero.”
Spare me. Please someone spare me.
Ana. You can rescue yourself. You’ve been doing it for 20 years!! Speaking of Ana, the way she figures out her problems with being an illegal immigrant is very predictable. And the portrayal of immigrants? That is pretty stereotypical too.
As I said, this author’s first two novellas were really strong and romantic. This one comes out of left field and gets a big fat F from me.
When I heard this book had a heroine who is an illegal immigrant it definitely got my notice. I also really enjoyed this author’s two previous novellas. But from the start this hero rubbed me the wrong way. He stereotypes and judges women and I could barely stand it. Like when he refers to another school mom:
He knew perfectly well she was married. Most of the women in Beacon were. Which didn’t stop them from flirting; it only stopped him from flirting back.
The non-flirting on his part wasn’t sexual deadness, not by any stretch. He could appreciate the glories of Beacon’s stay-at-home moms just fine from a visual perspective – expensively colored and straightened hair, subtly applied makeup , bodies finely tuned through obsessive, boredom-induced exercise.
Well I am so glad Ethan could appreciate and stereo-type and judge these women. Thanks so much Ethan.
And when he first meets Ana, thank goodness she is dressed in a manner that doesn’t fall into his stereo-type!
She wore battered sneakers, not new leather boots like the mommies, and carried an equally battered backpack – not an expensive handbag. And she hadn’t flirted, which filled him with relief and, perversely, a need to win her interest.
See, what strikes me funny here is that he has a lot of money. He is a doctor. He lives in a big fancy house and drives a fancy car. But I guess he can, just not the other women in his town? The ‘mommies’ are not allowed to show wealth because that means they fall into the flirting category?
And you ask – why does he call the desperate housewives, ‘mommies?’ Let me show you an example of Ethan’s mindset again:
Desperate mommies were an occupational hazard, like parents who asked him pediatric questions at awkward moments. They were usually the mothers of infants or toddlers. They felt ugly and unattractive because of post-pregnancy body changes, insecure because dynamics in their household had shifted radically, and bored because they were smart and highly educated but they’d been forced to spend long hours playing Candy Land and watching Sesame Street. It all added up to a terrible case of frustration, and he was, unfortunately, an outlet.
He felt sorry for them. Actually, he hurt for them, partially because he remembered when Trish went through a similar phase. But that didn’t keep him from maintaining a safe distance – as much for their own good as his.
*Mandi starts to rip her hair out*
I can’t with this mind-set!! This hero is SO judgmental. SO condescending toward women. I’m so glad he is so valiant and can find the strength to keep away from these women who are so bored by being MOTHERS that the only thing they can do is throw themselves at him. Because right – our kids bore us and we never want to play with them and getting our hair done and buying new fancy shoes is just not fulfilling. Might as well try to cheat on our husbands too. Oh and don’t forget we aren’t proud of our post-pregnancy bodies.
This is not a hero that I want to see fall in love. Ana needs to run in the other direction. But she falls directly into his trap.
“You’re too sexy for your own good. That’s why the mommies all want to be around you.”
The brake light of the car in front of them flared, coloring their faces. He laughed. “Yeah, right.”
“You are!” She briefly let her hand rest on his arm, and, primed as he was, even that was enough to make his cock feel heavy.
“I don’t’ think so. I think it’s a rescue thing. Everyone wants to be rescued. The mommies want to be rescued from their lives of drudgery. I’m just a convenient superhero.”
Spare me. Please someone spare me.
Ana. You can rescue yourself. You’ve been doing it for 20 years!! Speaking of Ana, the way she figures out her problems with being an illegal immigrant is very predictable. And the portrayal of immigrants? That is pretty stereotypical too.
As I said, this author’s first two novellas were really strong and romantic. This one comes out of left field and gets a big fat F from me.
November 10, 2013
So Serena Bell, what can I say about her. Well she writes a bloody good book thats for sure.
I loved Ethan and Ana's story. It is unique to me in that it deals with the issue of a long term illegal immigrants and the harsh realities of their everyday lives in America. You are pretty much invisible (and want to stay that way). No ID, Bank Account, Drivers License, Credit Cards....I could go on, but summing it up, it makes life incredibly complicated.
Ana and her family have become adept at being invisible, flying under the radar, working jobs where no-one asks questions and surviving as best they can. That is until Ana gets in a situation that requires Ethan's intervention. The sparks fly from then on in.
This story develops gradually, as does the relationship between Ethan and Ana, you are given a glimpse of Ana's family life and the vast contrast between that and how Ethan and his son Theo live. I loved Theo, he added a whole separate dimension to the story, a teenager dealing with the loss of his mother, the emotional shutdown of his father, and the prospect of a whole new chapter with Ana in his and his fathers lives.
Ethan, mmmmm......Hot Doctor, need I say more and hell yeah does he have a good bedside manner!!!
Such an enjoyable read from the get-go. I would call this a grown up romance. The writing is mature, well paced and the bedroom scenes are Spicy. The book is written from both Ethan and Ana's POV which works really well, and one of my favourite phrases of all time is in the book "testicular fortitude" having balls by any other name!! Classic.
Great Plot, Great Characters, Great Read.
ARC provided by Netgalley, and it was a pleasure to provide the above review.
I loved Ethan and Ana's story. It is unique to me in that it deals with the issue of a long term illegal immigrants and the harsh realities of their everyday lives in America. You are pretty much invisible (and want to stay that way). No ID, Bank Account, Drivers License, Credit Cards....I could go on, but summing it up, it makes life incredibly complicated.
Ana and her family have become adept at being invisible, flying under the radar, working jobs where no-one asks questions and surviving as best they can. That is until Ana gets in a situation that requires Ethan's intervention. The sparks fly from then on in.
This story develops gradually, as does the relationship between Ethan and Ana, you are given a glimpse of Ana's family life and the vast contrast between that and how Ethan and his son Theo live. I loved Theo, he added a whole separate dimension to the story, a teenager dealing with the loss of his mother, the emotional shutdown of his father, and the prospect of a whole new chapter with Ana in his and his fathers lives.
Ethan, mmmmm......Hot Doctor, need I say more and hell yeah does he have a good bedside manner!!!
Such an enjoyable read from the get-go. I would call this a grown up romance. The writing is mature, well paced and the bedroom scenes are Spicy. The book is written from both Ethan and Ana's POV which works really well, and one of my favourite phrases of all time is in the book "testicular fortitude" having balls by any other name!! Classic.
Great Plot, Great Characters, Great Read.
ARC provided by Netgalley, and it was a pleasure to provide the above review.
November 11, 2013
I loved that Yours To Keep featured a protagonist who was a woman of color. LOVED. Serena Bell gets soooo many props for doing her research and creating a vibrant character shaped by her culture and not at all whitewashed. Ana's existence as a Dominican immigrant is crucial to the plot of the story and Bell didn't shy away from the complex nature of the immigrant experience, the often tense politics of skin color and hair texture within communities of African descent and just tackled it head on. I'm sure there will be actual Dominican immigrants who could find something to pick apart here, but as a black woman I consider Bell's effort for the most part well done, nuanced and sensitive.
There are things hinted at, but not overtly stated that I think a writer of color would have focused on more aggressively. For instance, the fact that Ana is lighter with straighter hair than both her older brother and sister is mentioned, and the cultural/social effects of that sketched out, but a POC writer would probably have spent more time on that as a cause of the substantial differences in the siblings' life trajectories as opposed to just the age when they came to America and their proficiency at English. Economic and racial differences are handled intelligently, but without the emotional connection that a writer of color would brought the material.
But that's an observation, not necessarily a criticism because Bell far exceeded my expectations for a white writer creating a character of color. I would love to see more white writers bring this level of sensitivity and thoughtfulness to a non-stereotypical, lead character of color. And more, bring it to a story not centered around race or immigration status, but where race and culture are intrinsic to the character and inform their opinions and actions. But I digress.
The story itself is also well done. I really felt the intense chemistry between Ethan and Ana. The growth of their relationship and their missteps along the way felt natural. At some point in the final quarter of the book I felt things lost a bit of forward momentum making the final resolution a little anti-climactic, but overall I liked these two together, and I adored Theo, Ethan's teenage son.
Yours to Keep is a sweet story of two very likable characters from opposite worlds coming together. I would definitely recommend it!
There are things hinted at, but not overtly stated that I think a writer of color would have focused on more aggressively. For instance, the fact that Ana is lighter with straighter hair than both her older brother and sister is mentioned, and the cultural/social effects of that sketched out, but a POC writer would probably have spent more time on that as a cause of the substantial differences in the siblings' life trajectories as opposed to just the age when they came to America and their proficiency at English. Economic and racial differences are handled intelligently, but without the emotional connection that a writer of color would brought the material.
But that's an observation, not necessarily a criticism because Bell far exceeded my expectations for a white writer creating a character of color. I would love to see more white writers bring this level of sensitivity and thoughtfulness to a non-stereotypical, lead character of color. And more, bring it to a story not centered around race or immigration status, but where race and culture are intrinsic to the character and inform their opinions and actions. But I digress.
The story itself is also well done. I really felt the intense chemistry between Ethan and Ana. The growth of their relationship and their missteps along the way felt natural. At some point in the final quarter of the book I felt things lost a bit of forward momentum making the final resolution a little anti-climactic, but overall I liked these two together, and I adored Theo, Ethan's teenage son.
Yours to Keep is a sweet story of two very likable characters from opposite worlds coming together. I would definitely recommend it!
November 17, 2013
The fear of deportment for an illegal immigrant from the Dominican Republic threatens to become reality, until her knight in shining armor comes to her rescue she is cornered by her manipulating boss. Not only has pediatrician Ethan Hansen helped her out of a bad spot, but Ana now has the opportunity to return the favor by tutoring Ethan’s rebellious son in Spanish. The story of their growing love is filled with joy, heartache and the likelihood that they can never be together.
Yours to Keep by Serena Bell is a heart-warming love story of two lonely people from different worlds who must fight against odds in an attempt to find happiness. Will the forces working against them be too much? Should they fear the government removing Ana from the country, separating this pair or will her family plunge the final wedge to drive them apart?
Serena Bell has written with feeling and depth, creating a very realistic world for her characters to live in. Ethan is truly a hero. Ana is far from a weak damsel in distress, she is strong, intelligent, but in a precarious situation as an illegal immigrant in this country, even though she fights every step of the way to earn her keep and independence while staying under the radar. Ms. Bell has penned a wonderful romance filled with just the right mix of tension, heat and emotion.
I received an ARC edition from Loveswept in exchange for my honest review.
Publication Date: November 11, 2013
Publisher: Loveswept
ISBN: 9780345549730
Genre: Adult Contemporary Romance
Page Count: 323
Amazon | Barnes & Noble
Yours to Keep by Serena Bell is a heart-warming love story of two lonely people from different worlds who must fight against odds in an attempt to find happiness. Will the forces working against them be too much? Should they fear the government removing Ana from the country, separating this pair or will her family plunge the final wedge to drive them apart?
Serena Bell has written with feeling and depth, creating a very realistic world for her characters to live in. Ethan is truly a hero. Ana is far from a weak damsel in distress, she is strong, intelligent, but in a precarious situation as an illegal immigrant in this country, even though she fights every step of the way to earn her keep and independence while staying under the radar. Ms. Bell has penned a wonderful romance filled with just the right mix of tension, heat and emotion.
I received an ARC edition from Loveswept in exchange for my honest review.
Publication Date: November 11, 2013
Publisher: Loveswept
ISBN: 9780345549730
Genre: Adult Contemporary Romance
Page Count: 323
Amazon | Barnes & Noble
January 1, 2018
In Serena Bell's Yours to Keep, this contemporary romance debut deals with hard-core issue of the immigration status in our country and what would you do for love. For Ana Travares, she's been living under the ICE's radar as an undocumented citizen since her mother's death. And she's under pressure for taking the CORI in order to tutor high school students. When Dr. Ethan Hansen's son Theo needs a Spanish tutor, he requested her tutoring services. From there, he had helped transformed Theo and bridged the gap between father and son, which had been chartered some rapid waters in their relationship. But Ana tries not to fall in love with Ethan, since she knew her secret about her immigration status and her protective brother wouldn't approve. When he catches wind about her citizenship, he proposes a plan to keep her in the country and in her life to get her green card. When her brother finds out, he encourages Ethan to break it up, when the forces against her had propelled her to do it first. Later, during a family crisis, Ana calls Ethan to come to the rescue. That had changed everything between them, when Ethan wants to do it right and make Ana his wife and to give her the American dream of hers to keep for her own with a happy ending.
January 5, 2014
I was so impressed by the roller coaster of emotions I experienced reading this work. Racial, classist, stereotypical, prejudical highs and lows that made me angry, happy, sad, thoughtful and then back around again. Bell WENT THERE, unafraid, unapologetic. And in the middle of all of that, there was a really good romance story and character transformation. These are the kinds of stories I want to read. This is the kind of writer I want to be: unafraid to tackle tough issues with a heap of lyricism.
November 14, 2013
*ARC provided by netgally *
I thought this would have been a refreshing read. Sadly it dissapointed on so many stupid levels , I liked the summary which was what drew me to this novel but sadly it just did not match up to standards.
The hero was not what I was expecting , he was weak nothing at all to what I pictured . The only saving grace in this was the hero's son which was sweet . This story could have been handled much better but it git stuck with so many cliches that it did not resonate to anything great for me .
2 stars
I thought this would have been a refreshing read. Sadly it dissapointed on so many stupid levels , I liked the summary which was what drew me to this novel but sadly it just did not match up to standards.
The hero was not what I was expecting , he was weak nothing at all to what I pictured . The only saving grace in this was the hero's son which was sweet . This story could have been handled much better but it git stuck with so many cliches that it did not resonate to anything great for me .
2 stars
July 2, 2015
I don't know what took me so long to review this one since it was SUCH a joy to read. The previous book by Serena was a bit of a miss for me but this one made me remember how much I enjoyed everything else I've read by her and of course I'll read anything else she puts out (already marked to read her next one "Hold on Tight")
Ana is an immigrant from the Dominican Republic. She arrived at the US with her family when she was a small child with a legitimate visa but unfortunately as her mother got sick and died she failed to file the papers to renew their visa so Ana and her two older siblings became illegitimate. Since Ana was pretty small when she arrived at the US she always saw herself as an American and she wasn't about to jeopardize being deported back so she and her family did what they could to survive. Ana tutors Spanish in School and also have classes for English as a second language.
All in all she has work, she has a close family but one thing she can't have is a relationship, love. She tried dating but it didn't work out.. once the guy learnt of her legal situation he disappeared and besides the heartache of being dumped there is always the chance someone would tell on her and her family and they would all get deported. After 20 years of living in the US she feel her luck might be running out as a new regulation in school (where she gets most of her students to tutor) asks her to write down all her personal information including her social security number - the one she doesn't have. Her boss at school offers to "help her out" and makes a very nasty move at her. Struggling to free herself from his grasp she is saved by Ethan who came to the office looking for a Spanish tutor for his teenager son.
Even though Ethan is the one who rescued Ana from a very bad situation he feels like he is the one being rescued and he isn't even sure why. Ethan is a known and appreciated doctor, but his life isn't so perfect. The one thing, the one person on his top priority list - his son - doesn't get along with him and as the time goes by he doesn't know how to reach him and the one woman he loved died a few years back from cancer leaving him to deal with raising their son alone.
As it seems Ana and Theo get along from right about the first minute they met, and when Ethan finds that out he is very impressed by her. Seeing how good she is with his son but also how confident, creative, funny, interesting and sexy she is makes sure that not so slowly but surely - he falls for her. But she is sending him mixed messages. He feels like she want him as well yet she rejects him and he doesn't understand why.
Ana is falling for Ethan but she can't bring herself to tell him the truth and when he finally finds out and even when he has a way to help her their road to happiness is filled with obstacles.
Ana and Ethan's love story is simply beautiful. They come from different worlds yet they are perfect for each other. And even though I'm NOT a fan of books with kids Theo is just amazing. I felt he was an "authentic" teenager pulling stunts and having stupid fits of anger, yet he also has a sensitive side Ana helps let loose. There are great scenes of father and son - happy, sad, funny - the relationship just felt so genuine. He wasn't "in the way" of Ana and Ethan's romance it was somehow entwined together.
See this quote for an example:
Theo grumbled under his breath.
"What?"
"Not very romantic," Theo muttered.
"You have to trust me. I have more life experience that you do."
Theo glared at him. "Doesn't seem to have done you much good so far."
I love happy endings but I usually don't need a full disclosure of a HEA. I'm OK with a suggested one. So I was nearing the end and I had this stupid happy smile on my face when the chapter was over, I took a breath and released it, pressing on the kindle to see the marking of the end of the book and hey! there's another chapter! Well, I'm was happy but I am willing to get happier you know? so I got to the end of the chapter and I was surely happier! Pressing for the last time to get to the last page - oh! there's an Epilogue as well! :D
Well, I just have to say that even though their romance took it's time and even though her family was making it hard for her to be happy with Ethan I just loved how it all concluded. Happy ending all the way. Ana, Ethan and Theo as well, all deserved it and sure got it!
I'm going to end with something really mussy which is SO not my style but I feel like I have to, so here we go -
" The older your kids got the more they needed you. Not some parent, any parent, but you, specifically. When they were babies, anyone could hold them, feed them, comfort them. But as they got older, went to school, and fell under other influences, only you could finish the job of shaping them. Only you could give them the guidance they needed. Even if they seemed to reject it. Even if they seemed not to be listening. "
I don't think I ever thought about it like that. I guess my psychology background tend to see it the other way around. But when I read it and really thought about it I realized how truthful this sentence is and how much my parents mean to me. Naturally first think I did was recommend this one to my mother and I'm really glad she already started reading it today :)
Highly Recommended!
Ana is an immigrant from the Dominican Republic. She arrived at the US with her family when she was a small child with a legitimate visa but unfortunately as her mother got sick and died she failed to file the papers to renew their visa so Ana and her two older siblings became illegitimate. Since Ana was pretty small when she arrived at the US she always saw herself as an American and she wasn't about to jeopardize being deported back so she and her family did what they could to survive. Ana tutors Spanish in School and also have classes for English as a second language.
All in all she has work, she has a close family but one thing she can't have is a relationship, love. She tried dating but it didn't work out.. once the guy learnt of her legal situation he disappeared and besides the heartache of being dumped there is always the chance someone would tell on her and her family and they would all get deported. After 20 years of living in the US she feel her luck might be running out as a new regulation in school (where she gets most of her students to tutor) asks her to write down all her personal information including her social security number - the one she doesn't have. Her boss at school offers to "help her out" and makes a very nasty move at her. Struggling to free herself from his grasp she is saved by Ethan who came to the office looking for a Spanish tutor for his teenager son.
Even though Ethan is the one who rescued Ana from a very bad situation he feels like he is the one being rescued and he isn't even sure why. Ethan is a known and appreciated doctor, but his life isn't so perfect. The one thing, the one person on his top priority list - his son - doesn't get along with him and as the time goes by he doesn't know how to reach him and the one woman he loved died a few years back from cancer leaving him to deal with raising their son alone.
As it seems Ana and Theo get along from right about the first minute they met, and when Ethan finds that out he is very impressed by her. Seeing how good she is with his son but also how confident, creative, funny, interesting and sexy she is makes sure that not so slowly but surely - he falls for her. But she is sending him mixed messages. He feels like she want him as well yet she rejects him and he doesn't understand why.
Ana is falling for Ethan but she can't bring herself to tell him the truth and when he finally finds out and even when he has a way to help her their road to happiness is filled with obstacles.
Ana and Ethan's love story is simply beautiful. They come from different worlds yet they are perfect for each other. And even though I'm NOT a fan of books with kids Theo is just amazing. I felt he was an "authentic" teenager pulling stunts and having stupid fits of anger, yet he also has a sensitive side Ana helps let loose. There are great scenes of father and son - happy, sad, funny - the relationship just felt so genuine. He wasn't "in the way" of Ana and Ethan's romance it was somehow entwined together.
See this quote for an example:
Theo grumbled under his breath.
"What?"
"Not very romantic," Theo muttered.
"You have to trust me. I have more life experience that you do."
Theo glared at him. "Doesn't seem to have done you much good so far."
I love happy endings but I usually don't need a full disclosure of a HEA. I'm OK with a suggested one. So I was nearing the end and I had this stupid happy smile on my face when the chapter was over, I took a breath and released it, pressing on the kindle to see the marking of the end of the book and hey! there's another chapter! Well, I'm was happy but I am willing to get happier you know? so I got to the end of the chapter and I was surely happier! Pressing for the last time to get to the last page - oh! there's an Epilogue as well! :D
Well, I just have to say that even though their romance took it's time and even though her family was making it hard for her to be happy with Ethan I just loved how it all concluded. Happy ending all the way. Ana, Ethan and Theo as well, all deserved it and sure got it!
I'm going to end with something really mussy which is SO not my style but I feel like I have to, so here we go -
" The older your kids got the more they needed you. Not some parent, any parent, but you, specifically. When they were babies, anyone could hold them, feed them, comfort them. But as they got older, went to school, and fell under other influences, only you could finish the job of shaping them. Only you could give them the guidance they needed. Even if they seemed to reject it. Even if they seemed not to be listening. "
I don't think I ever thought about it like that. I guess my psychology background tend to see it the other way around. But when I read it and really thought about it I realized how truthful this sentence is and how much my parents mean to me. Naturally first think I did was recommend this one to my mother and I'm really glad she already started reading it today :)
Highly Recommended!
November 10, 2013
Ana finds herself facing her greatest fear - being found out. She has always kept to herself as to not draw to attention to her precarious situation. Smart, independent and self-sufficient, Ana just wants to be able to live her life without having to look over her shoulder.
Ethan has been going through the motions of his life since his wife passed away years ago. His only grounding presence is his son and even that relationship is sinking. Looking for a way to make something right in regards to Theo, he hires Ana as a Spanish tutor. Upon meeting, he can't deny that he is attracted to her. She ignites in him feelings that he thought were buried after his wife died.
Try as they might, Ana and Ethan fight their attraction, both for different reason, but both wanting more with every moment spent together. They let go, they retreat, they come together again. It was all a bit whiplash-inducing, but very, very enjoyable nonetheless.
I loved that Ethan and Ana had doubts about opening up to someone else. I especially understood why Ana held back. Coming from a Latino family myself, I understood perfectly well the sense of duty that she felt towards her family and the guilt that she felt whenever she thought about moving on.
Ethan's hesitations were well-founded too. He had never felt about a woman the way he felt about Ana. With her presence in Ethan and Theo's life, she brought them laughter, happiness and peace. Something that they had lost along the way.
Serena Bell did a great job of bringing these characters together. Their interactions were interesting and entertaining and their chemistry was off the charts. I appreciated the fact that the author kept the story real. Both Ethan and Anna were dealing with real issues that affected their relationship one way or the other. Having a teenage son and being a doctor does not leave for a lot of time to work on a relationship. Add to that the fact that Ana herself had a hectic schedule and is completely understandable when the communication lines start to fail.
My only complain would be the Spanish references that threw me off from the story as I was reading it. Not because I didn't want them in the story, but because I kept correcting them. My first language is Spanish and there were a couple of errors in the copy I was provided.
All in all, Yours to Keep was a nice, hot, romantic read with two complex characters that learn that they each have to let go of their fears and trust and accept each other in order to move forward into a meaningful relationship.
I received this title from the publisher in exchange of my honest opinion.
Ethan has been going through the motions of his life since his wife passed away years ago. His only grounding presence is his son and even that relationship is sinking. Looking for a way to make something right in regards to Theo, he hires Ana as a Spanish tutor. Upon meeting, he can't deny that he is attracted to her. She ignites in him feelings that he thought were buried after his wife died.
Try as they might, Ana and Ethan fight their attraction, both for different reason, but both wanting more with every moment spent together. They let go, they retreat, they come together again. It was all a bit whiplash-inducing, but very, very enjoyable nonetheless.
I loved that Ethan and Ana had doubts about opening up to someone else. I especially understood why Ana held back. Coming from a Latino family myself, I understood perfectly well the sense of duty that she felt towards her family and the guilt that she felt whenever she thought about moving on.
Ethan's hesitations were well-founded too. He had never felt about a woman the way he felt about Ana. With her presence in Ethan and Theo's life, she brought them laughter, happiness and peace. Something that they had lost along the way.
Serena Bell did a great job of bringing these characters together. Their interactions were interesting and entertaining and their chemistry was off the charts. I appreciated the fact that the author kept the story real. Both Ethan and Anna were dealing with real issues that affected their relationship one way or the other. Having a teenage son and being a doctor does not leave for a lot of time to work on a relationship. Add to that the fact that Ana herself had a hectic schedule and is completely understandable when the communication lines start to fail.
My only complain would be the Spanish references that threw me off from the story as I was reading it. Not because I didn't want them in the story, but because I kept correcting them. My first language is Spanish and there were a couple of errors in the copy I was provided.
All in all, Yours to Keep was a nice, hot, romantic read with two complex characters that learn that they each have to let go of their fears and trust and accept each other in order to move forward into a meaningful relationship.
I received this title from the publisher in exchange of my honest opinion.
November 6, 2013
Yours to Keep by Serena Bell is a Random House/ Loveswept publication released in 2013. I received a copy of this book from Netgalley and the publisher in exchange for an honest review.
Ana and her siblings were born in the Dominican Republic. As children they came with their mother to the United States. When their mother died and their visas were expired, the children, the oldest being Ricky, stayed under the radar. If they were found out they could be deported and would have to wait ten years before they could reapply for a visa. The United States was all that Ana has ever known and she is terrified of being deported. She tutors students and adults privately, teaching them Spanish to earn a living.
Ethan is a pediatrician raising his teenage son alone after his wife died. He has been going through the motions of daily living, but has lost touch with his son. When Ethan and Ana meet, Ethan ask her to tutor Theo. She really needs the money so she agreed.
Having the young ,vivacious Ana in the house makes Ethan realize how empty his life has become. Ana also has a way of communicating with Theo. She opens a way up for the two of them to reconnect.
But, the looming problems with her visa and her over protective brother cause a lot of problems.
There are also a few side stories involving Ethan's patients and an exploration into his own ego and prejudices.
I was really undecided about my rating for this book. I liked the author bringing attention to the many complicated issues involved in obtaining visas and citizenship in our country. Ethan was likeable but sometimes he got on my nerves. He actually thought all the women in his community were hot to get in his pants. In fact, this thought almost caused a tragic misdiagnosis with a young patient. He also gave up on Ana too easily when he hit the first hurdle in the relationship. In the end, he does come through, and he learns things about himself and his son along the way.
As for Ana, I also had issues with her inability to take charge of her own life when it came to her domineering and controlling brother. I realize he was afraid for her, but Ana was old enough to make her own choices.
Theo was the one that seemed to have it together more so than the adults.
If I have my information correct, this is the author's first full length novel and if that is the case, then this is not a bad first outing. I think that with a little more practice this author will really come into her own.
I'm going to rate this one a 3.5 and my grade will be a C+.
Ana and her siblings were born in the Dominican Republic. As children they came with their mother to the United States. When their mother died and their visas were expired, the children, the oldest being Ricky, stayed under the radar. If they were found out they could be deported and would have to wait ten years before they could reapply for a visa. The United States was all that Ana has ever known and she is terrified of being deported. She tutors students and adults privately, teaching them Spanish to earn a living.
Ethan is a pediatrician raising his teenage son alone after his wife died. He has been going through the motions of daily living, but has lost touch with his son. When Ethan and Ana meet, Ethan ask her to tutor Theo. She really needs the money so she agreed.
Having the young ,vivacious Ana in the house makes Ethan realize how empty his life has become. Ana also has a way of communicating with Theo. She opens a way up for the two of them to reconnect.
But, the looming problems with her visa and her over protective brother cause a lot of problems.
There are also a few side stories involving Ethan's patients and an exploration into his own ego and prejudices.
I was really undecided about my rating for this book. I liked the author bringing attention to the many complicated issues involved in obtaining visas and citizenship in our country. Ethan was likeable but sometimes he got on my nerves. He actually thought all the women in his community were hot to get in his pants. In fact, this thought almost caused a tragic misdiagnosis with a young patient. He also gave up on Ana too easily when he hit the first hurdle in the relationship. In the end, he does come through, and he learns things about himself and his son along the way.
As for Ana, I also had issues with her inability to take charge of her own life when it came to her domineering and controlling brother. I realize he was afraid for her, but Ana was old enough to make her own choices.
Theo was the one that seemed to have it together more so than the adults.
If I have my information correct, this is the author's first full length novel and if that is the case, then this is not a bad first outing. I think that with a little more practice this author will really come into her own.
I'm going to rate this one a 3.5 and my grade will be a C+.
April 28, 2014
This is Ethan, Ana and Theo’s story.
Ana is from the Dominican Republic; she moved to the US on a valid visa with her mother and older siblings. Her father was to follow shortly thereafter. Due to tragic and unforeseen circumstances, Ana loses her mother and the children are left to fend for themselves and their valid visa runs out and is not renewed. Ana finds work tutoring Spanish to high school students privately and adults in the mornings and evenings to earn money. She lives with her brother, sister and her three children. They are poor and all live in a two-bedroom apartment, trying their best not to be discovered by the authorities, or else all the adults will be deported back to their country of origin. Ana has lived like this for twenty years.
Ethan is a widower raising his son, Theo. Trish, Theo’s mum died when he was around seven years old, and so he clearly misses the love of his mother. Ethan is a pediatrician and works long hours in a busy practice. They live in a nice area with a lovely home and neither Ethan or Theo wants for anything. Their only hardship is that their relationship has broken down because Ethan does not know how to reach out to his son, and his son feels neglected by him.
Ethan comes to Ana’s rescue when her superior tries to blackmail her after he becomes aware or surmises the true status (undocumented) of her stay in the US. Ethan and Ana’s journey to love commences when Ethan hears a commotion and goes to investigate. This then leads to Ana tutoring Theo who becomes instrumental in bringing Ethan and Ana together.
The story explores the nightmarish situation of what it is like to be an undocumented person in the US; all the fears and hardships that need to be dealt with. I enjoyed the story, it was beautifully told. However, I felt the pace of the story could have been a lot quicker and I felt disappointed that although the couple’s feelings for each other were very strong they were not able to be more honest and open about their feelings and insecurities regarding the relationship and Ana’s true legal status. Regardless of that, the story was very romantic and has a happy ending! Definitely worth a read!
-Reviewed by Marcia
Ana is from the Dominican Republic; she moved to the US on a valid visa with her mother and older siblings. Her father was to follow shortly thereafter. Due to tragic and unforeseen circumstances, Ana loses her mother and the children are left to fend for themselves and their valid visa runs out and is not renewed. Ana finds work tutoring Spanish to high school students privately and adults in the mornings and evenings to earn money. She lives with her brother, sister and her three children. They are poor and all live in a two-bedroom apartment, trying their best not to be discovered by the authorities, or else all the adults will be deported back to their country of origin. Ana has lived like this for twenty years.
Ethan is a widower raising his son, Theo. Trish, Theo’s mum died when he was around seven years old, and so he clearly misses the love of his mother. Ethan is a pediatrician and works long hours in a busy practice. They live in a nice area with a lovely home and neither Ethan or Theo wants for anything. Their only hardship is that their relationship has broken down because Ethan does not know how to reach out to his son, and his son feels neglected by him.
Ethan comes to Ana’s rescue when her superior tries to blackmail her after he becomes aware or surmises the true status (undocumented) of her stay in the US. Ethan and Ana’s journey to love commences when Ethan hears a commotion and goes to investigate. This then leads to Ana tutoring Theo who becomes instrumental in bringing Ethan and Ana together.
The story explores the nightmarish situation of what it is like to be an undocumented person in the US; all the fears and hardships that need to be dealt with. I enjoyed the story, it was beautifully told. However, I felt the pace of the story could have been a lot quicker and I felt disappointed that although the couple’s feelings for each other were very strong they were not able to be more honest and open about their feelings and insecurities regarding the relationship and Ana’s true legal status. Regardless of that, the story was very romantic and has a happy ending! Definitely worth a read!
-Reviewed by Marcia
October 31, 2013
3.5 stars
Ana Travares has spent the better part of her life staying in the background, never drawing attention to herself. She can't, because if she does, someone could find out that she's not in the U.S. legally. She came here legally, but circumstances happened and her VISA expired and fear of being sent back to the Dominican Republic has kept her quiet.
Ana has made a life for herself though, she works with adult students to teach them English and she also works as a tutor through the nearby High School. When a handsome pediatrician, Ethan Hansen, saves her from the creepy Principal, he asks for a favor. Please tutor his son who desperately needs help.
Ethan has been on his own for many years. The death of his first wife left him with a son and a busy pediatrician office. Theo, his son, has gotten the short end of the stick. Whatever time Ethan has after long work days and doing household things, is then spent with Theo... which isn't much and Theo is rebelling.
Ana agrees despite the trouble that can only come from the budding relationship between her and Ethan and also Theo.
There really was kind of a lot going on in this story... while we're learning about Ana and Ethan there are a few other issues. We get a side story about Ricky, Ana's brother and the struggle that they go through as illegals in the US. We also get a bit of a story about a patient that Ethan is dealing with and of course the story of what is going on with his son. For me, it was almost too much.
The story itself was well-written and Ethan is definitely swoony.
If you're looking for something with a somewhat unique plot (the end was a bit predictable but the actual characters were somewhat different)with a bit of drama and a lot of sweet and swoon definitely pick up Yours To Keep. I'll definitely be keeping an eye on Serena Bell in the future.
Thank you to Loveswept and Netgalley for the advance copy in exchange for my honest thoughts.
Ana Travares has spent the better part of her life staying in the background, never drawing attention to herself. She can't, because if she does, someone could find out that she's not in the U.S. legally. She came here legally, but circumstances happened and her VISA expired and fear of being sent back to the Dominican Republic has kept her quiet.
Ana has made a life for herself though, she works with adult students to teach them English and she also works as a tutor through the nearby High School. When a handsome pediatrician, Ethan Hansen, saves her from the creepy Principal, he asks for a favor. Please tutor his son who desperately needs help.
Ethan has been on his own for many years. The death of his first wife left him with a son and a busy pediatrician office. Theo, his son, has gotten the short end of the stick. Whatever time Ethan has after long work days and doing household things, is then spent with Theo... which isn't much and Theo is rebelling.
Ana agrees despite the trouble that can only come from the budding relationship between her and Ethan and also Theo.
There really was kind of a lot going on in this story... while we're learning about Ana and Ethan there are a few other issues. We get a side story about Ricky, Ana's brother and the struggle that they go through as illegals in the US. We also get a bit of a story about a patient that Ethan is dealing with and of course the story of what is going on with his son. For me, it was almost too much.
The story itself was well-written and Ethan is definitely swoony.
If you're looking for something with a somewhat unique plot (the end was a bit predictable but the actual characters were somewhat different)with a bit of drama and a lot of sweet and swoon definitely pick up Yours To Keep. I'll definitely be keeping an eye on Serena Bell in the future.
Thank you to Loveswept and Netgalley for the advance copy in exchange for my honest thoughts.
November 25, 2013
4 Stars
Yours to Keep by Serena Bell was so much more than just a romance! It had so many elements. I was so pleasantly surprised. Grace is an illegal immigrant from the DR who teaches English and tutors kids. She lives with her huge family in a tiny apartment and they rely on her.
Ethan is a pediatrician and a single dad. His wife died years ago and he's struggling with the challenges of raising a teenage son.
When he meets Grace, he literally rescues her when she's getting harassed. And it's like he's awakened from a deep, emotionless sleep. Not only does she get along great with his son, but he likes everything about her. They have instant chemistry and he wants to pursue it further, but she has a secret, and she's been trained since she was 7 years old to trust no one. Plus she's already been rejected by one guy after sharing her secret.
Of course this sweet, gorgeous man finally wears her down! But when he finds out she's here illegally, he wants to rescue her again. Will she let him?
I was really rooting for these two! The scenes between them were HOT and the secondary characters added depth and emotion - I loved Ethan's brother. And the scenes between Ethan and his son were touching (when he played guitar for his dad - LOOOVED it!). I even loved Grace's family. They were so tight and even though her brother does some questionable things, he does them because he loves her. Overall, this was a very satisfying, sweet read! I'm going to check out some more books by Serena Bell!
Yours to Keep by Serena Bell was so much more than just a romance! It had so many elements. I was so pleasantly surprised. Grace is an illegal immigrant from the DR who teaches English and tutors kids. She lives with her huge family in a tiny apartment and they rely on her.
Ethan is a pediatrician and a single dad. His wife died years ago and he's struggling with the challenges of raising a teenage son.
When he meets Grace, he literally rescues her when she's getting harassed. And it's like he's awakened from a deep, emotionless sleep. Not only does she get along great with his son, but he likes everything about her. They have instant chemistry and he wants to pursue it further, but she has a secret, and she's been trained since she was 7 years old to trust no one. Plus she's already been rejected by one guy after sharing her secret.
Of course this sweet, gorgeous man finally wears her down! But when he finds out she's here illegally, he wants to rescue her again. Will she let him?
I was really rooting for these two! The scenes between them were HOT and the secondary characters added depth and emotion - I loved Ethan's brother. And the scenes between Ethan and his son were touching (when he played guitar for his dad - LOOOVED it!). I even loved Grace's family. They were so tight and even though her brother does some questionable things, he does them because he loves her. Overall, this was a very satisfying, sweet read! I'm going to check out some more books by Serena Bell!
November 14, 2013
ARC provided by the Publisher, via Netgalley, in exchange for an honest review.
Serena Bell is a new author in my reading library. I was impressed with her short story in the Christmas collection Heating Up The Holidays. I was looking forward to the release of Yours To Keep. The anticipation was worth the wait. Yours To Keep was fabulous. It was fresh and unique. The story was written with a sensitivity to the subject matter that makes readers aware of the immigration issues we face here in the United States. This is a hot political issue and there are torn feelings for these issues. Serena Bell handles both sides of this issue with a finesse that does not make either side look bad. It gives the reader an understanding of the issue at hand and those affected by this issue.
The characters come to life and the reader sympathizes with both characters. They are charming, realistic, and have a way of embracing the reader’s heart. The romance between the two is realistic.
The reader not only experiences an embracing love story, they also experience a way of life that affects many immigrant families.
The reader will walk away with a new perspective on immigration, immigration laws, and how families are affected by these laws. Serena Bell pens a beautiful love story and tackles sensitive issues in a very positive manner. Her writing is superb.
Well done! I highly recommend this book.
Serena Bell is a new author in my reading library. I was impressed with her short story in the Christmas collection Heating Up The Holidays. I was looking forward to the release of Yours To Keep. The anticipation was worth the wait. Yours To Keep was fabulous. It was fresh and unique. The story was written with a sensitivity to the subject matter that makes readers aware of the immigration issues we face here in the United States. This is a hot political issue and there are torn feelings for these issues. Serena Bell handles both sides of this issue with a finesse that does not make either side look bad. It gives the reader an understanding of the issue at hand and those affected by this issue.
The characters come to life and the reader sympathizes with both characters. They are charming, realistic, and have a way of embracing the reader’s heart. The romance between the two is realistic.
The reader not only experiences an embracing love story, they also experience a way of life that affects many immigrant families.
The reader will walk away with a new perspective on immigration, immigration laws, and how families are affected by these laws. Serena Bell pens a beautiful love story and tackles sensitive issues in a very positive manner. Her writing is superb.
Well done! I highly recommend this book.
October 21, 2013
4 stars
I loved Yours to Keep.
The storyline was refreshing. Watching Ana and Ethan, two people from very different backgrounds falling in love and finding a way to get through all the obstacles they faced left me with me so many happy feels.
I seriously didn't think that would be possible *looking at you Ricky* lol
This was the first book I've read from Serena Bell and it won't be my last.
I enjoyed Serena's writing and even though I don't know ANY spanish I could understand what the characters were talking about and you could feel the passion coming from their exchanges.
Ana and Ethan had amazing chemistry, their lovemaking was full of passion *fans self*
Another plus for me was seeing two people as equals in bed. Ana was not shy about showing her man what she wanted ;)
I hope you take the time to read Yours to Keep, you will not be disappointed :)
Thank you to NetGalley and Random House Publishing Group - Loveswept for the ARC in exchange for my honest review.
I loved Yours to Keep.
The storyline was refreshing. Watching Ana and Ethan, two people from very different backgrounds falling in love and finding a way to get through all the obstacles they faced left me with me so many happy feels.
I seriously didn't think that would be possible *looking at you Ricky* lol
This was the first book I've read from Serena Bell and it won't be my last.
I enjoyed Serena's writing and even though I don't know ANY spanish I could understand what the characters were talking about and you could feel the passion coming from their exchanges.
Ana and Ethan had amazing chemistry, their lovemaking was full of passion *fans self*
Another plus for me was seeing two people as equals in bed. Ana was not shy about showing her man what she wanted ;)
I hope you take the time to read Yours to Keep, you will not be disappointed :)
Thank you to NetGalley and Random House Publishing Group - Loveswept for the ARC in exchange for my honest review.
November 26, 2025
Yours to Keep was a great story with an endearing romance, strong sexual chemistry and a moral lesson to boot.
Ethan, oh Ethan, might just be the perfect man. He accepts Ana for who she is and doesn't judge her by her socioeconomic status or her differences.
There is no other way to describe Ana but strong. She faces what ever comes her way and takes it head on for the benefit of her family. She also is a devoted and talented teacher.
This is the first book I've read by Serena Bell, but it won't be my last. She writes characters that you'd want to call your friends. This is a true love story where two people finding happiness in each other and not the person they want each other to become. Yours to Keep was a charming, emotional enriching romance with insight into the life of illegal immigrants.
I received this ARC copy of Yours To Keep from Random House Publishing Group - Loveswept in exchange for an honest review. This book is set for publication November 11, 2013.
Ethan, oh Ethan, might just be the perfect man. He accepts Ana for who she is and doesn't judge her by her socioeconomic status or her differences.
There is no other way to describe Ana but strong. She faces what ever comes her way and takes it head on for the benefit of her family. She also is a devoted and talented teacher.
This is the first book I've read by Serena Bell, but it won't be my last. She writes characters that you'd want to call your friends. This is a true love story where two people finding happiness in each other and not the person they want each other to become. Yours to Keep was a charming, emotional enriching romance with insight into the life of illegal immigrants.
I received this ARC copy of Yours To Keep from Random House Publishing Group - Loveswept in exchange for an honest review. This book is set for publication November 11, 2013.
November 27, 2013
A very interesting and informative romance, a true eye-opener regarding the life of illegal immigrants in the US. I enjoyed Serena Bell's writing style, it flew smoothly. Detailed review to be posted soon.
November 8, 2013
http://ripeforreader.blogspot.com/201...
My rating: 4.5 of 5 ⭐️
For twenty years, Ana Travares and her family, have lived under the radar. Moving from the Dominican Republic to the US at age seven with her mother and brothers was legal at the time, until her father changed his mind about coming and left the children alone with a dying mother and an expired visa. Ana adjusted well to the language and the culture, and learned to use that to her advantage. Working as a Spanish tutor and adult ESL teacher, she has been able to avoid any legal entanglements that might expose her or her close knit family. Until one day her sleezy supervisor calls her into his office waving some immigration documents and makes some strong sexual advances in return for which he suggests he can make them disappear.
As a pediatrician, Ethan Hansen is well-known for his ease with kids, and it doesn't hurt that his good looks are a hit with the moms. However, he is out of his league when it comes to his own teenage son, Theo. After his wife's death, eight years ago, it has always just been the two of them, but the last few years have been progressively more difficult. This last stunt of Theo's, bailing on his Spanish classes, is testament to that. Determined to grab the bull by the horns, Ethan is outside the supervisor's office in search of a Spanish tutor, when he hears a woman's voice cry out, "Stop it!".
The voice belongs to Ana, and Ethan can't believe his luck when he determines the beautiful but slightly distressed woman is in fact a Spanish tutor. Without any hesitation he hires her to help out his son and within no time Ana has Theo eating out of her hand, with Ethan not far behind. But Ethan can sense that Ana is holding something back, she is skittish and at first resistant to his advances. Or it could just be he has gotten rusty over the years, but the heat in her eyes tells a different story. Ana can't hold out for long, and even though she knows she should tell Ethan the truth about her status, she can't seemt to find the right time.
It is inevitable that Ethan finds out about Ana's citizenship and he is hurt that he didn't trust her enough to tell the truth. Anna thinks she, once again, has been unceremoniously dumped and is devastated. Although slightly bruised, Ethan is far from ready to give up on Ana, and spent his time considering ways in which he could help her. When he faces her with the proposal he has come up with, she can hardly believe her ears. Her initial reaction is anger and fear, but slowly she starts to see the beautiful possibilities.......
*****
A heart-felt and genuine story. Really captivating storyline and an interesting show of cultural diversity and parallel. Aside from the fact that it was a truly great, hot, juicy love story, of course!!!!
Very well done, the way the background contexts for both main characters were slowly laid out through the story, rather than all piled up in the beginning. I love when writers let us get to know the characters the way we would in real life.........little by litte, as circumstances dictate, in a purely natural flow. That's what Serena Bell did here with both Ana and Ethan. No big information sheets thrown at us at the beginning, just a progressive 'getting to know' process.......wonderfully done!!
It helps to better understand where each of the individuals' perspective. Even Ana's brother's, who may not always seem like such a great guy, but because of the situational and background picture that was emerging, even his point of view was sort of understandable.
Ana has known nothing else but to live 'in the shadows' for all of her cognisant life. Avoiding direct questions, situations where paperwork would be needed (there are so many of those!!), always keeping a low profile, trying hard not to stand out. It must have been utterly tiring and completely absorbing to have to be that aware always. Almost like living in occupied or enemy territory, scary. Not surprising therefore, that she doesn't trust easily, or even at all! She wouldn't know how, she's never been taught how, or proven she could. Her saving grace from becoming as distrustful and cynical as her siblings, is that she believes in love, with an innocence that makes those around her so protective, she believes there is inherent goodness in people.
Ethan is a good man, a decent man, but simply going through the motions after the death of his wife left him with a young son to raise by himself. He really never moved on from simply functioning. Not truly engaging with Theo, yes he would do all the practical parenting stuff, but he would really connect with his son. Which is why Theo at fifteen, becam the bane of his existence. His brother James had tried to tell him to 'get a life' a number of times, but I don't think it resonated until he met Ana and actually felt there WAS a life to be lived. It didn't hurt that she fairly effortlessly was able to get through to Theo in a matter of hours and somehow managed to ease the tension between Ethan and his son at the same time.
What I love about this story is that it is NOT the usual trope of rich doctor saves poor immigrant girl, or some such thing. For one thing, I'm not sure who is saving who here....... and for another, the 'poor immigrant girl' ended up with a fair set of brass balls, once she discovered there were avenues she could take on her own. She was determined to 'save' herself, one way or another, I think Ethan was the one who was more at risk of getting lost here........
A great story, that I thoroughly enjoyed reading. Serenca Bell does not disappoint when it comes to creating chemistry and passion between her characters, but it doesn't overshadow the impact of the story. Amazing!!
✨Compelling, thought-provoking, passionate and insightful!✨
**ARC provided by NetGalley and Loveswept in return for an honest review.**
My rating: 4.5 of 5 ⭐️
For twenty years, Ana Travares and her family, have lived under the radar. Moving from the Dominican Republic to the US at age seven with her mother and brothers was legal at the time, until her father changed his mind about coming and left the children alone with a dying mother and an expired visa. Ana adjusted well to the language and the culture, and learned to use that to her advantage. Working as a Spanish tutor and adult ESL teacher, she has been able to avoid any legal entanglements that might expose her or her close knit family. Until one day her sleezy supervisor calls her into his office waving some immigration documents and makes some strong sexual advances in return for which he suggests he can make them disappear.
As a pediatrician, Ethan Hansen is well-known for his ease with kids, and it doesn't hurt that his good looks are a hit with the moms. However, he is out of his league when it comes to his own teenage son, Theo. After his wife's death, eight years ago, it has always just been the two of them, but the last few years have been progressively more difficult. This last stunt of Theo's, bailing on his Spanish classes, is testament to that. Determined to grab the bull by the horns, Ethan is outside the supervisor's office in search of a Spanish tutor, when he hears a woman's voice cry out, "Stop it!".
The voice belongs to Ana, and Ethan can't believe his luck when he determines the beautiful but slightly distressed woman is in fact a Spanish tutor. Without any hesitation he hires her to help out his son and within no time Ana has Theo eating out of her hand, with Ethan not far behind. But Ethan can sense that Ana is holding something back, she is skittish and at first resistant to his advances. Or it could just be he has gotten rusty over the years, but the heat in her eyes tells a different story. Ana can't hold out for long, and even though she knows she should tell Ethan the truth about her status, she can't seemt to find the right time.
It is inevitable that Ethan finds out about Ana's citizenship and he is hurt that he didn't trust her enough to tell the truth. Anna thinks she, once again, has been unceremoniously dumped and is devastated. Although slightly bruised, Ethan is far from ready to give up on Ana, and spent his time considering ways in which he could help her. When he faces her with the proposal he has come up with, she can hardly believe her ears. Her initial reaction is anger and fear, but slowly she starts to see the beautiful possibilities.......
*****
A heart-felt and genuine story. Really captivating storyline and an interesting show of cultural diversity and parallel. Aside from the fact that it was a truly great, hot, juicy love story, of course!!!!
Very well done, the way the background contexts for both main characters were slowly laid out through the story, rather than all piled up in the beginning. I love when writers let us get to know the characters the way we would in real life.........little by litte, as circumstances dictate, in a purely natural flow. That's what Serena Bell did here with both Ana and Ethan. No big information sheets thrown at us at the beginning, just a progressive 'getting to know' process.......wonderfully done!!
It helps to better understand where each of the individuals' perspective. Even Ana's brother's, who may not always seem like such a great guy, but because of the situational and background picture that was emerging, even his point of view was sort of understandable.
Ana has known nothing else but to live 'in the shadows' for all of her cognisant life. Avoiding direct questions, situations where paperwork would be needed (there are so many of those!!), always keeping a low profile, trying hard not to stand out. It must have been utterly tiring and completely absorbing to have to be that aware always. Almost like living in occupied or enemy territory, scary. Not surprising therefore, that she doesn't trust easily, or even at all! She wouldn't know how, she's never been taught how, or proven she could. Her saving grace from becoming as distrustful and cynical as her siblings, is that she believes in love, with an innocence that makes those around her so protective, she believes there is inherent goodness in people.
Ethan is a good man, a decent man, but simply going through the motions after the death of his wife left him with a young son to raise by himself. He really never moved on from simply functioning. Not truly engaging with Theo, yes he would do all the practical parenting stuff, but he would really connect with his son. Which is why Theo at fifteen, becam the bane of his existence. His brother James had tried to tell him to 'get a life' a number of times, but I don't think it resonated until he met Ana and actually felt there WAS a life to be lived. It didn't hurt that she fairly effortlessly was able to get through to Theo in a matter of hours and somehow managed to ease the tension between Ethan and his son at the same time.
What I love about this story is that it is NOT the usual trope of rich doctor saves poor immigrant girl, or some such thing. For one thing, I'm not sure who is saving who here....... and for another, the 'poor immigrant girl' ended up with a fair set of brass balls, once she discovered there were avenues she could take on her own. She was determined to 'save' herself, one way or another, I think Ethan was the one who was more at risk of getting lost here........
A great story, that I thoroughly enjoyed reading. Serenca Bell does not disappoint when it comes to creating chemistry and passion between her characters, but it doesn't overshadow the impact of the story. Amazing!!
✨Compelling, thought-provoking, passionate and insightful!✨
**ARC provided by NetGalley and Loveswept in return for an honest review.**
July 5, 2018
Even though it was written over 5 years ago (he had a flip phone for goodness sake) it is still a very relevant story about immigration.
November 4, 2013
I received this ARC through NetGalley, in exchange for an honest review.
Synopsis: Ana is an illegal immigrant. Ethan is a pediatrician. Ana tutors high school students in Spanish. Ethan has a son in need of a Spanish tutor. Ana and Ethan fall in love. The whole illegal immigrant detail hangs over them. They get married, she becomes a citizen, and they live happily ever after.
That's not giving anything away since that's what I expected going into the book, and I'm fairly certain that's what most romance fans expect with any romance novel.
Now to my review: The story itself wasn't awful. The writing was alright. The formatting sort of drove me crazy. I'm not really a fan of obvious morals to the story in a romance. I'm also not really a fan of a romance novel that, at times, reads like a parenting book. Now let me explain some of that.
The Story: The whole concept of the story was alright. I liked Ana and I liked Ethan. I even liked Ethan's son, Theo. I didn't like Ethan's brother or Ana's brother or sister, but I think it's because I didn't feel like they were developed very well. There were a few things in the story that I felt were unnecessary.
1) Ricky's friend, Ernie.
2) Ethan's patient's mother, Nicole Freyer, and the whole medical issue surrounding the little girl.
3) I didn't need any scenes of her in her ESL classes since they didn't contribute anything to the story, except the one where Ricky barged in. I had to sit through a couple of her classes and that was unnecessary to the story. It would have been sufficient to say she taught them and then to have Ricky barge in on the one. But I also didn't need the details about her students, especially Nati.
The writing: I didn't need so many descriptions of rooms and whatnot. Describing Ana's tiny apartment and describing Ethan's house were necessary as it highlighted the differences in their lives. But I didn't need descriptions of EVERYTHING. Also, I got it. Ana is worried about her illegal status being discovered by the authorities. She's not only worried about herself, but she's worried about her family. I got it. The first fifty times she said or thought it, I got it. The writing also just felt choppy to me. Like it was a series of 'scenes' with some fretting over her illegal status in between. It didn't 'flow' very well for me.
The formatting: I don't mind when a story is more or less narrated and we get to see what both main characters are doing and how they're feeling. I almost prefer that. But when you're switching from one character to the next, I need more of a break to let me know we're about to switch. In this one, we'd have a narrative about Ana's feelings in a scene and then there was a line break and go into Ethan's feelings of the scene. Here's an example, but it's NOT an excerpt:
[...the end of a narrative, or scene focusing on Ana's feelings] Ana was so happy to have spent that time with Ethan and Theo and she felt like they really bonded.
Ethan thought, as he watched her walk away, that he'd never been so happy in his life. [carry on with what Ethan does next...]
I wish there had been asterisks or a symbol or SOMETHING to indicate we were about to switch, other than a line break.
Morals: There were A LOT of "morals" both obvious and subliminal in this book.
1) Not all illegal immigrants came here illegally, so they shouldn't all be treated the same.
2) Not all illegal immigrants are criminals. Some are law abiding citizens who are just trying to make a good life and if they could, they'd pay taxes just like regular citizens.
3) Don't judge a book by it's cover. Just because someone is a different race doesn't make them good or bad. Just because someone is poor, it doesn't make them a bad person. Just because someone is rich, it doesn't make them a snob.
4) Immigration is a serious issue and the government is too hard on illegal immigrants.
5) Love does not know race or social status.
I could go on here...
Parenting book: There were too many instances when it explained the proper way to handle raising a teenager and highlighted the difficulties parents faced. Yeah, teens aren't easy to raise, but it felt almost as though I was reading a parenting book. Or like the author watched Dr. Phil one time and was like, "Oh, I could use that example in this book and say what Dr. Phil told the parents about how best to handle that situation." It was just a bit too self-help book for me.
Overall, this book just bored me to tears. I was expecting to read a romance with a sideline of immigration issues. Instead, I felt like I was reading about the struggles of illegal immigrants and one of them just happened to fall in love. Wasn't my cup o' tea, but I'm sure there will be plenty of others who will enjoy it.
Synopsis: Ana is an illegal immigrant. Ethan is a pediatrician. Ana tutors high school students in Spanish. Ethan has a son in need of a Spanish tutor. Ana and Ethan fall in love. The whole illegal immigrant detail hangs over them. They get married, she becomes a citizen, and they live happily ever after.
That's not giving anything away since that's what I expected going into the book, and I'm fairly certain that's what most romance fans expect with any romance novel.
Now to my review: The story itself wasn't awful. The writing was alright. The formatting sort of drove me crazy. I'm not really a fan of obvious morals to the story in a romance. I'm also not really a fan of a romance novel that, at times, reads like a parenting book. Now let me explain some of that.
The Story: The whole concept of the story was alright. I liked Ana and I liked Ethan. I even liked Ethan's son, Theo. I didn't like Ethan's brother or Ana's brother or sister, but I think it's because I didn't feel like they were developed very well. There were a few things in the story that I felt were unnecessary.
1) Ricky's friend, Ernie.
2) Ethan's patient's mother, Nicole Freyer, and the whole medical issue surrounding the little girl.
3) I didn't need any scenes of her in her ESL classes since they didn't contribute anything to the story, except the one where Ricky barged in. I had to sit through a couple of her classes and that was unnecessary to the story. It would have been sufficient to say she taught them and then to have Ricky barge in on the one. But I also didn't need the details about her students, especially Nati.
The writing: I didn't need so many descriptions of rooms and whatnot. Describing Ana's tiny apartment and describing Ethan's house were necessary as it highlighted the differences in their lives. But I didn't need descriptions of EVERYTHING. Also, I got it. Ana is worried about her illegal status being discovered by the authorities. She's not only worried about herself, but she's worried about her family. I got it. The first fifty times she said or thought it, I got it. The writing also just felt choppy to me. Like it was a series of 'scenes' with some fretting over her illegal status in between. It didn't 'flow' very well for me.
The formatting: I don't mind when a story is more or less narrated and we get to see what both main characters are doing and how they're feeling. I almost prefer that. But when you're switching from one character to the next, I need more of a break to let me know we're about to switch. In this one, we'd have a narrative about Ana's feelings in a scene and then there was a line break and go into Ethan's feelings of the scene. Here's an example, but it's NOT an excerpt:
[...the end of a narrative, or scene focusing on Ana's feelings] Ana was so happy to have spent that time with Ethan and Theo and she felt like they really bonded.
Ethan thought, as he watched her walk away, that he'd never been so happy in his life. [carry on with what Ethan does next...]
I wish there had been asterisks or a symbol or SOMETHING to indicate we were about to switch, other than a line break.
Morals: There were A LOT of "morals" both obvious and subliminal in this book.
1) Not all illegal immigrants came here illegally, so they shouldn't all be treated the same.
2) Not all illegal immigrants are criminals. Some are law abiding citizens who are just trying to make a good life and if they could, they'd pay taxes just like regular citizens.
3) Don't judge a book by it's cover. Just because someone is a different race doesn't make them good or bad. Just because someone is poor, it doesn't make them a bad person. Just because someone is rich, it doesn't make them a snob.
4) Immigration is a serious issue and the government is too hard on illegal immigrants.
5) Love does not know race or social status.
I could go on here...
Parenting book: There were too many instances when it explained the proper way to handle raising a teenager and highlighted the difficulties parents faced. Yeah, teens aren't easy to raise, but it felt almost as though I was reading a parenting book. Or like the author watched Dr. Phil one time and was like, "Oh, I could use that example in this book and say what Dr. Phil told the parents about how best to handle that situation." It was just a bit too self-help book for me.
Overall, this book just bored me to tears. I was expecting to read a romance with a sideline of immigration issues. Instead, I felt like I was reading about the struggles of illegal immigrants and one of them just happened to fall in love. Wasn't my cup o' tea, but I'm sure there will be plenty of others who will enjoy it.
February 5, 2015
This is a Net Galley unedited proof.
Ana Travares moved to the United States from the Dominican Republic when she was 7. She came with her mother, older brother and sister. Her father would join them once they were settled. That was the plan, anyway. When her father decided to stay in the DR, Ana's mother fretted over what to do- stay in the US, or go back home. But lack of funds kept them in the US, and when Mrs. Travares got sick and ultimately died of cancer, Ana and her brother and sister were now stuck in a country with Visas that were slowly expiring. Cut to years later when Ana is now an adult, and a spanish tutor and ESL instructor. New this year to the school district where Ana tutors is a new form she has to fill out, mainly with the basics, name, address... but there is a new addition- Social Security number. Ana doesn't want anyone to know that she is now in the country illegally, and if someone does find out, she will be deported back to a country that she has few memories of and no family. She and her siblings have worked cash only jobs in order to stay under the radar, but with this new form, Ana is in danger of getting caught. If she doesn't fill out the form, her name will be taken off the recommended tutor list and she will make no money. Stuck between a rock and a hard place, Ana is trying to figure out a way to take the form home and figure out something about the social security number when the principal comes on to her, and is unwilling to take no for an answer.
Dr. Ethan Hansen is a widower with a teenage son who barely speaks to him. Theo, also decided to drop spanish class when he was in danger of failing, and forged his father's signature, so when the spanish teacher accosts Ethan at school one day, he is blindsided that his son would be so sneaky. Ethan heads straight to the principal's office to sort this out when he hears Ana practically screaming for help. Being the hero that he is, Ethan rushes in and saves Ana.
Leaving the school together, Ethan and Ana talk and he finds out that she is a spanish tutor and asks her to tutor his son. Both of them are mutually attracted to one another, and the tutoring sessions, are ideal for Ethan to pursue his interest in Ana. Ana, having been burned before by another man who fled when he found out her immigration status, is reluctant to get into a relationship with another man, only to have him run for the hills when he finds out her status. But, their attraction cannot be denied, so they fall into a relationship. When their romance gets hotter, and Ethan finds out that Ana is illegal, he proposes that they get married so she can stay. Ana, hesitant at first, warms to the idea. When Ricky, Ana's older brother threatens Theo, Ethan's son with bodily harm if he continues his relationship with Ana, he breaks up with her, but regrets it instantly. He realizes that he wanted to marry Ana not just to get her permanently into this country, but because he is falling in love with her, but he needs to man up and face down Ana's brother if he ever wants to reconnect with her again.
I really enjoyed this story and how the author made it understandable to the reader exactly what illegal immigrants go through to stay in this country. Like Ana, some came here legally and through some unforeseen circumstance their status changed and the people either forgot to get their green cards renewed or assumed they had never expired in the first place, or were unsure how to go about renewing their status without being deported or detained. Ana and her family worked hard at cash paying jobs, some of them having more than one job to stay in this country, and the author did a great job of showing how we as Americans take for granted where we come from. If Ana was deported, she'd be going back to a country she didn't remember or know at all, with no family and no money. She'd have to start from scratch all over again, without a safety net, and to her, that was terrifying.
I also liked the juxtaposition of Ethan- he was this pediatrician with a G-d- complex that was given to him by the mommies in his practice. He never saw himself as a hero until Ana came into his life, and then he began to despise his moniker because he was just doing his job- saving lives. Ana even pointed it out to Ethan-no one had been willing to stick their neck out for her before, why was he so different, and he replied that he was doing what anyone would do- in terms of trying to keep Ana in the country, and she replied that he'd be surprised at how many people wouldn't help. It's a sobering thought of just how true that is.
Ana Travares moved to the United States from the Dominican Republic when she was 7. She came with her mother, older brother and sister. Her father would join them once they were settled. That was the plan, anyway. When her father decided to stay in the DR, Ana's mother fretted over what to do- stay in the US, or go back home. But lack of funds kept them in the US, and when Mrs. Travares got sick and ultimately died of cancer, Ana and her brother and sister were now stuck in a country with Visas that were slowly expiring. Cut to years later when Ana is now an adult, and a spanish tutor and ESL instructor. New this year to the school district where Ana tutors is a new form she has to fill out, mainly with the basics, name, address... but there is a new addition- Social Security number. Ana doesn't want anyone to know that she is now in the country illegally, and if someone does find out, she will be deported back to a country that she has few memories of and no family. She and her siblings have worked cash only jobs in order to stay under the radar, but with this new form, Ana is in danger of getting caught. If she doesn't fill out the form, her name will be taken off the recommended tutor list and she will make no money. Stuck between a rock and a hard place, Ana is trying to figure out a way to take the form home and figure out something about the social security number when the principal comes on to her, and is unwilling to take no for an answer.
Dr. Ethan Hansen is a widower with a teenage son who barely speaks to him. Theo, also decided to drop spanish class when he was in danger of failing, and forged his father's signature, so when the spanish teacher accosts Ethan at school one day, he is blindsided that his son would be so sneaky. Ethan heads straight to the principal's office to sort this out when he hears Ana practically screaming for help. Being the hero that he is, Ethan rushes in and saves Ana.
Leaving the school together, Ethan and Ana talk and he finds out that she is a spanish tutor and asks her to tutor his son. Both of them are mutually attracted to one another, and the tutoring sessions, are ideal for Ethan to pursue his interest in Ana. Ana, having been burned before by another man who fled when he found out her immigration status, is reluctant to get into a relationship with another man, only to have him run for the hills when he finds out her status. But, their attraction cannot be denied, so they fall into a relationship. When their romance gets hotter, and Ethan finds out that Ana is illegal, he proposes that they get married so she can stay. Ana, hesitant at first, warms to the idea. When Ricky, Ana's older brother threatens Theo, Ethan's son with bodily harm if he continues his relationship with Ana, he breaks up with her, but regrets it instantly. He realizes that he wanted to marry Ana not just to get her permanently into this country, but because he is falling in love with her, but he needs to man up and face down Ana's brother if he ever wants to reconnect with her again.
I really enjoyed this story and how the author made it understandable to the reader exactly what illegal immigrants go through to stay in this country. Like Ana, some came here legally and through some unforeseen circumstance their status changed and the people either forgot to get their green cards renewed or assumed they had never expired in the first place, or were unsure how to go about renewing their status without being deported or detained. Ana and her family worked hard at cash paying jobs, some of them having more than one job to stay in this country, and the author did a great job of showing how we as Americans take for granted where we come from. If Ana was deported, she'd be going back to a country she didn't remember or know at all, with no family and no money. She'd have to start from scratch all over again, without a safety net, and to her, that was terrifying.
I also liked the juxtaposition of Ethan- he was this pediatrician with a G-d- complex that was given to him by the mommies in his practice. He never saw himself as a hero until Ana came into his life, and then he began to despise his moniker because he was just doing his job- saving lives. Ana even pointed it out to Ethan-no one had been willing to stick their neck out for her before, why was he so different, and he replied that he was doing what anyone would do- in terms of trying to keep Ana in the country, and she replied that he'd be surprised at how many people wouldn't help. It's a sobering thought of just how true that is.
November 5, 2013
I enjoyed reading Yours to Keep. Although this was a romance novel, it was centered around a very real life and many times controversial issue: immigration. The main character, Serena came to the United States legally as a young child, from the Dominican Republic. Due to circumstances beyond her control her eligibility to be in the US expires. Her and her family continue to live and work in the US as illegal immigrants. Years later, Serena meets Ethan when he hires her to tutor his somewhat rebellious son, Theo, in Spanish. Serena does not tell Ethan about her illegal status. She has been taught from a very early age to keep her status a secret. She has become a professional at being elusive, providing only information she has to.
The author does a wonderful job of letting the reader get to know the characters before any romantic relationship begins. She allows the chemistry between Ethan and Serena to develop naturally. Because of that, when the steamy parts did come, I felt more invested in both characters as a couple.
…he slid into her with one sure, deep thrust, and, as she’d imagined, she offered him no resistance, only slick welcome.
“Ohhh,” he said, drawing back and thrusting into her again and again—long, deep thrusts with a rocking, rubbing motion at the end that drew an answering rhythm out of her. “Yeah,” he said. “Like that.”
She whimpered and lifted her hips to meet him again and again, the tension and heat rising in her until it was almost unbearable. “Don’t stop,” she whispered.
“I-- can’t-- stop,” he whispered back.
I enjoyed Theo’s involvement in the story line. It was refreshing to read about Ethan’s struggles as he tries to deal with Theo as well as his frustration in trying to juggle being a single dad. And while Ethan’s brother plays only a minor role, I thought he was funny and appreciated him keeping things “real”.
I ended up a little confused as to Serena’s exact ethnicity. She originally is from the Dominican Republic and she refers to herself as Latino. She then says that her father was white and her mother was black. To me that is a bit confusing but in the end it doesn’t really matter. The differences between Serena and Ethan are many and while Ethan doesn’t see their differences as a problem initially, being in an inter-racial relationship does provide some challenges. The issue of Serena’s illegal status is a major issue that has to be dealt with and provides most of the drama in the second half of the book.
While this was a romance, the book did open my eyes to some of the struggles illegal immigrants face day to day. Simple things like getting a job, a driver’s licenses, or opening up a bank account are impossible unless immigrants use fake documentation. It can also be difficult or dangerous to report crimes and that can lead to new sets of dangers as Serena saw early on in the book. Those are things I’ve never really thought about before. While I’m sure the author didn’t set out to bring awareness to readers about immigration, I appreciated the backstory she provided and it’s something I’ll be thinking about in “real life”.
Overall, I really enjoyed this book. At times I thought it may have dragged a little but I enjoyed getting to know all the characters and appreciated the time the author took developing each of them. A 3.5 STAR READ.
Copy provided by publisher via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review
December 15, 2013
ARC provided by NetGalley for an honest review.
Synopsis:
Ana Travares has been looking over her shoulder her whole life. Her U.S. visa expired when she was a young girl, and if her secret is discovered, she’ll be forced to return to the Dominican Republic. Ana allowed herself to get close to someone once before—and after he broke her heart, she swore never to make the same mistake again. But when a handsome doctor asks for her assistance, she fantasizes about breaking all her rules.
Even though pediatrician Ethan Hansen is a natural when it comes to little kids, as the single father of a teenage son he just can’t seem to get it right . . . except for the Spanish tutor he’s hired for his son, Theo. Ana has managed to crack Theo’s shell—and he isn’t the only one taken with her. The sexy tutor has fired up Ethan with a potent mix of lust and protectiveness. But as he starts to envision a future with Ana, Ethan is devastated to learn the truth about her citizenship. Somehow he’s got to find a way to help her—and hold on to the woman he’s falling hopelessly in love with.
This book was so sweet and a very easy read. All of the characters were strong, the storyline was heartbreaking.
Ana and Ethan fall in love. Their relationship is so sweet and patient. The looks, the accidental touches, the passion. All these are motivators for Ethan to fall for Ana.
Ana sees how polite, respective, kind and a good parent Ethan is and also how HOT and she fall for him.
He smelled like hand soap and something cleanly musky that she could identify only as big, sexy guy.
She absorbed details she’d been unable to process earlier: long lashes, killer cheekbones; clean-shaven, well groomed, neatly dressed.
Their love is unorthodox, with a major side a taboo. The boss falling for the employee.
“I think about you all the time. Kissing you. Touching you. Having you.” A flicker of surprise moved over her features, and he watched for signs that he’d gone too far. All he saw, though, was the slight softening of her lower lip, the widening of her eyes, a reflection of his heat, and it was crazy the way it bounced back and forth between them, escalating until he had to look away. If she dropped her eyes, she’d see that kissing and touching was only the beginning of what he wanted, planned, ached to do to her.
Oh my. But when they fall. We fall hard with them, and it is hard.
She panted and moaned, moving her hand higher on this thigh until she felt the bulge of his cock straining into her hand.
“Here,” he said, and he slid his thumb into her mouth.
She sucked it, and his breath huffed out of him as if he’d been punched, and he dived for her his hands yanking her hair.
Within this love story, Ethan has no idea that Ana is here illegally.
“Are you here illegally?” [Ethan]
When he discovers this he has to make a decision. One for himself and for his son.
This leaves Ana, unsure of their relationship. She is heartbroken. She never loved like this and in such a short amount of time.
Her heartache had exactly the same dimensions and ferocity as her desire for Ethan.
With love, disappointment and absence seems to be what makes the heart grow fonder. But how much can this couple take?
This is one of the stories were you want the law to bend the rules and you want the good guys and women to win.
November 11, 2013
Reading is my passion, my pleasure. I adore discovering new-to-me writers whose imagination creates a new and interesting premise and better yet, handle it in a deft manner. This may be my first Serena Bell book, but it sure won’t be my last.
The Premise
Ana Travares can never let her guard down, even as she tutors children in Spanish in a well-to-do neighborhood. As an illegal immigrant, she has been living in the shadows since she was a child. If she’s caught, the price will be the loss of all she knows, her family and the return to a country she barely remembers. When she is propositioned by a skeevy school employee in exchange for his assistance with a criminal record check, Dr. Ethan Hansen, overhears her cry for help and opens a door, to Ana and a love he didn’t even know he was looking for.
Ethan is a man who has been trudging through life ever since the death of his wife and raising his teenage son Theo on his own. He needs a Spanish tutor for Theo and, drawn to Ana, decides to hire her to come to his house two days a week. As they get to know each other, they realize that there’s something between them, but can they overcome their cultural differences and make a life together?
The Good
First and foremost, I loved that this wasn’t treated in a typical Cinderella manner - rich, hot doctor sweeps and saves the poor immigrant girl. Ana is a strong heroine who works to save herself, whose fears are genuine and her concerns as to how she could make a relationship with Ethan work felt true, instead of some manufactured angst. Even as a solution to Ana’s status is proposed (a marriage to stay in the country), the story takes enough twists and turns that keep the ultimate outcome is hardly assured. I really felt that Ethan and Ana worked for their relationship, and it was all the sweeter for it.
As a Latina (I’m Puerto Rican), I may not have had status issues, but the cultural differences between Ana and Ethan are something that I can definitely relate to, and that is something that is not typically dealt with in contemporary romances. I loved that, while the problems they had were daunting, I never rolled my eyes and said “that could never happen.” Ms. Bell struck a nice balance through most of the story between the reality of their situation without losing the romantic feeling of their HEA.
The Not as Good as I’d Like
Since it’s a truncated timeline, the story took off at warp speed, and I would have liked more of a slow build between Ana and Ethan, more of the anticipation. The story could be tighter at the beginning, and there are a (very) few moments where I felt bogged down in the details instead of focusing on the characters.
The Bottom Line
Yours to Keep is a very good effort by Ms. Bell that I definitely recommend to those looking for a unique premise and refreshingly real characters. I look forward to reading more from this author.
**ARC provided by Random House Publishing Group - Loveswept from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review**
P.S. This is the first ARC I’ve ever reviewed. I didn’t know what to expect but I’m thrilled that it’s a good one.
The Premise
Ana Travares can never let her guard down, even as she tutors children in Spanish in a well-to-do neighborhood. As an illegal immigrant, she has been living in the shadows since she was a child. If she’s caught, the price will be the loss of all she knows, her family and the return to a country she barely remembers. When she is propositioned by a skeevy school employee in exchange for his assistance with a criminal record check, Dr. Ethan Hansen, overhears her cry for help and opens a door, to Ana and a love he didn’t even know he was looking for.
Ethan is a man who has been trudging through life ever since the death of his wife and raising his teenage son Theo on his own. He needs a Spanish tutor for Theo and, drawn to Ana, decides to hire her to come to his house two days a week. As they get to know each other, they realize that there’s something between them, but can they overcome their cultural differences and make a life together?
The Good
First and foremost, I loved that this wasn’t treated in a typical Cinderella manner - rich, hot doctor sweeps and saves the poor immigrant girl. Ana is a strong heroine who works to save herself, whose fears are genuine and her concerns as to how she could make a relationship with Ethan work felt true, instead of some manufactured angst. Even as a solution to Ana’s status is proposed (a marriage to stay in the country), the story takes enough twists and turns that keep the ultimate outcome is hardly assured. I really felt that Ethan and Ana worked for their relationship, and it was all the sweeter for it.
As a Latina (I’m Puerto Rican), I may not have had status issues, but the cultural differences between Ana and Ethan are something that I can definitely relate to, and that is something that is not typically dealt with in contemporary romances. I loved that, while the problems they had were daunting, I never rolled my eyes and said “that could never happen.” Ms. Bell struck a nice balance through most of the story between the reality of their situation without losing the romantic feeling of their HEA.
The Not as Good as I’d Like
Since it’s a truncated timeline, the story took off at warp speed, and I would have liked more of a slow build between Ana and Ethan, more of the anticipation. The story could be tighter at the beginning, and there are a (very) few moments where I felt bogged down in the details instead of focusing on the characters.
The Bottom Line
Yours to Keep is a very good effort by Ms. Bell that I definitely recommend to those looking for a unique premise and refreshingly real characters. I look forward to reading more from this author.
**ARC provided by Random House Publishing Group - Loveswept from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review**
P.S. This is the first ARC I’ve ever reviewed. I didn’t know what to expect but I’m thrilled that it’s a good one.
December 21, 2013
Yours to Keep is a romantic story about two people, who never thought that one incident would brought them together and eventually found themselves falling in love...all over again. This book took me by surprise because when I chose this one to be my next read, I didn't know what to expect. I just opened my Kindle App, clicked this one and just hoped for the best. And thank God I did, because I really, really loved this story. It's surprisingly amazing. The fact that I couldn't put it down even if it was already 2am and I have to wake up early and go to work, is enough for me to say that this book is utterly amazing. A real page-turner from start to finish.
Well, at first, it started quite slow for me but as I kept on flipping through the pages, I just couldn't let it go without finishing it. This book is phenomenal. The story line is genuinely refreshing, pacing and dialogues are well-polished and the character development is well-thought of. The author did an exceptional job with the character dynamics in the story that I really felt each one of them grew up on me and felt connected with them especially the main protagonists - Ana, Dr. Ethan and Theo. The rest of the supporting characters, Ana's siblings - Ricky and Cara, Ethan's brother - James, and even Ricky's goon - Ernie, added depth into the story and made it more entertaining. Loved the comic banters that really put a smile on my face. The angst level in this book is enough to put my stomach in knots and make me edgy, afraid that Ethan & Ana would give up fighting for their relationship and allow other people to break them apart. This book did a number on me, made me anxious and squirming on my seat the entire time I was reading it because like all other hopeless romantics out there, I just want them to have a HEA. If you've read the book, you know what I'm talking about.
Yours to Keep is a real treat. I absolutely recommend this book to everyone who loves second chances, soul-mates and a fairytale story with a HEA. Suffice to say, that this book shouldn't be missed. Serena Bell is a gifted story teller who has a way with words that would keep any ready enthralled from beginning to end. This is her book that I've read but I know this won't be my last. I'd definitely be looking out for her next books. This book is a testament to her writing skills, a book that definitely made it on my fave list and with amazing characters such as Ana and Ethan, who are unforgettable characters and worth re-reading in the future.
Heart-warming. Romantic. Realistic. Worth-Every-Page-kinda Story.
Thank you Loveswept Romance on Net Galley for this wonderful opportunity. Thank you Serena Bell for sharing your wonderful story of Ana & Ethan to us.
A.MUST.READ.
***Copy provided by Loveswept Romance by Random House Publishing via Net Galley in exchange for an honest review***
Well, at first, it started quite slow for me but as I kept on flipping through the pages, I just couldn't let it go without finishing it. This book is phenomenal. The story line is genuinely refreshing, pacing and dialogues are well-polished and the character development is well-thought of. The author did an exceptional job with the character dynamics in the story that I really felt each one of them grew up on me and felt connected with them especially the main protagonists - Ana, Dr. Ethan and Theo. The rest of the supporting characters, Ana's siblings - Ricky and Cara, Ethan's brother - James, and even Ricky's goon - Ernie, added depth into the story and made it more entertaining. Loved the comic banters that really put a smile on my face. The angst level in this book is enough to put my stomach in knots and make me edgy, afraid that Ethan & Ana would give up fighting for their relationship and allow other people to break them apart. This book did a number on me, made me anxious and squirming on my seat the entire time I was reading it because like all other hopeless romantics out there, I just want them to have a HEA. If you've read the book, you know what I'm talking about.
Yours to Keep is a real treat. I absolutely recommend this book to everyone who loves second chances, soul-mates and a fairytale story with a HEA. Suffice to say, that this book shouldn't be missed. Serena Bell is a gifted story teller who has a way with words that would keep any ready enthralled from beginning to end. This is her book that I've read but I know this won't be my last. I'd definitely be looking out for her next books. This book is a testament to her writing skills, a book that definitely made it on my fave list and with amazing characters such as Ana and Ethan, who are unforgettable characters and worth re-reading in the future.
Heart-warming. Romantic. Realistic. Worth-Every-Page-kinda Story.
Thank you Loveswept Romance on Net Galley for this wonderful opportunity. Thank you Serena Bell for sharing your wonderful story of Ana & Ethan to us.
A.MUST.READ.
***Copy provided by Loveswept Romance by Random House Publishing via Net Galley in exchange for an honest review***
October 2, 2013
Beautiful, Steamy, Swoon and Dr. Handsome! I’m developing a serious crush on Loveswept. They’ve hit the jackpot working with some awesome romance novelists. One of them is Serena Bell. I’ve read her Strangers On The Train novella, Ticket Home, and loved it, so naturally I’ve been waiting for her debut novel. And here it is: Yours To Keep. The book will be available November 11th, 2013.
I’m going to try not to quote from this story but if I do, note that anything and everything is subject to changes before the final version is published. Between you and me, I see no need to change words at all. And I did mark a few lines to include in this review. Unf, so steamy and swoony.
Ana and her siblings are illegal Dominicans in the US. They’re living is a perpetuate “look behind your shoulder” state and are limited in their career and lifestyle choices. Because of that they are very poor.
When Ana is sexually harassed by a school administrator when she’s trying to get more students to tutor, she is saved by Dr. Ethan Hansen, a father of a student in need of a Spanish tutor. Ana, having been burned before by a romance with a white man, is holding back, trying to control her feelings. She is also hiding the fact she is illegal.
I was hooked pretty much from the first page turn. Both MCs have real struggles to deal with, although in different aspects of life. Both are so very lonely in their own bubble, and both have people who love them and will go to extremes to protect them.
There are two minor subplots, one involving Ethan’s son, Theo and the other one of his patients, and I loved how both tied into his blooming relationship with Ana, each in its own way.
This. Book. Is. Swoon. By definition I mean. It has a real life predicament (I’ve been in a similar, though not remotely dire situation, and was not in any way illegal, a story for another time) which was handled in a responsible, somewhat difficult way, but as expected from romances – the resolution was perfect.
The only thing that I wouldn’t minded to see different is that we had a rich hero and a poor heroine, but I doubt it would’ve worked as well the other way around.
Yours To Keep is sweet, drama filled, at times – a nail biter, has a bit of angst and is more often than not – filled with swoons galore, story. It is well written, steamy hot and a make-you-tear-up-and-smile book.
Go and preorder.
Thank you, Loveswept and NetGalley for this advanced copy in exchange for an honest review.
My rating:
Ps – I managed to review without quotes! *pats self on the shoulder*
I’m going to try not to quote from this story but if I do, note that anything and everything is subject to changes before the final version is published. Between you and me, I see no need to change words at all. And I did mark a few lines to include in this review. Unf, so steamy and swoony.
Ana and her siblings are illegal Dominicans in the US. They’re living is a perpetuate “look behind your shoulder” state and are limited in their career and lifestyle choices. Because of that they are very poor.
When Ana is sexually harassed by a school administrator when she’s trying to get more students to tutor, she is saved by Dr. Ethan Hansen, a father of a student in need of a Spanish tutor. Ana, having been burned before by a romance with a white man, is holding back, trying to control her feelings. She is also hiding the fact she is illegal.
I was hooked pretty much from the first page turn. Both MCs have real struggles to deal with, although in different aspects of life. Both are so very lonely in their own bubble, and both have people who love them and will go to extremes to protect them.
There are two minor subplots, one involving Ethan’s son, Theo and the other one of his patients, and I loved how both tied into his blooming relationship with Ana, each in its own way.
This. Book. Is. Swoon. By definition I mean. It has a real life predicament (I’ve been in a similar, though not remotely dire situation, and was not in any way illegal, a story for another time) which was handled in a responsible, somewhat difficult way, but as expected from romances – the resolution was perfect.
The only thing that I wouldn’t minded to see different is that we had a rich hero and a poor heroine, but I doubt it would’ve worked as well the other way around.
Yours To Keep is sweet, drama filled, at times – a nail biter, has a bit of angst and is more often than not – filled with swoons galore, story. It is well written, steamy hot and a make-you-tear-up-and-smile book.
Go and preorder.
Thank you, Loveswept and NetGalley for this advanced copy in exchange for an honest review.
My rating:
Ps – I managed to review without quotes! *pats self on the shoulder*
April 4, 2014
[This review was part of a bigger one, which you can find here.]
Such a nice surprise to suddenly be surrounded by books that reflect my life. So many of my friends and family members are in couples with very different cultural or ethnic backgrounds. So much of my dating history is the same. Maybe it’s because I live in a city, but I prefer to believe it’s because love is the thing that matters the most.
Ana is a Spanish tutor with a terrible secret: she’s undocumented. She’s been in the States for twenty years and hasn’t fallen under suspicion yet, but a slimy school staffer threatens to change that. Amazingly, heroically, she’s saved from their encounter by Ethan, a widowed pediatrician with an increasingly withdrawn teenage son, Theo. And Theo is in need of a Spanish tutor. Ethan’s in need of a wake-up call, and he can’t help but fall hard for Ana.
There are all the complications you would expect in such a scenario: Should Ana tell Ethan her secret? Can she trust him with it? What will her overprotective brother do when he finds out she’s taken up with a yanqui? Why shouldn’t she grasp on to what little happiness she’s offered in an otherwise precarious life? So yes, the story does go into predictable territory, and does play out pretty much as you would expect, but it’s so lovely and thoughtful and sensual as it does so that it’s not even an issue. I felt so much the hopeless, all-consuming longing that both felt for each other. Ugh, the description of Ana being woken from half-sleep by Ethan’s drowsy want, and how she lost herself to him in that moment, was so incredibly spot-on it was shocking and, in context, heartbreaking.
Ethan’s reflections on the complex motivations behind the behaviour of the moms who flirted with him were equally familiar to me: how the sudden change in identity and physicality, the sheer boredom of trading productive work for repetitive play, can unmoor many women and cause them to grapple for attention and novelty in desperate and inappropriate ways. I love it so much when a story reaches out to you unexpectedly like that, when it perfectly recreates a favourite sensation, precisely annunciates your most private emotions. And I appreciated the thoughtful treatment of the immigration issue — how damaging and ridiculously unfair deportation can be when so often the circumstances are much more complicated than we’ve been led to expect. I loved this story for addressing so precisely and beautifully the many issues it brought up while at the same time capturing the delirious, consuming sensation of lust and love together.
Lila
Reviewed from ARC.
Such a nice surprise to suddenly be surrounded by books that reflect my life. So many of my friends and family members are in couples with very different cultural or ethnic backgrounds. So much of my dating history is the same. Maybe it’s because I live in a city, but I prefer to believe it’s because love is the thing that matters the most.
Ana is a Spanish tutor with a terrible secret: she’s undocumented. She’s been in the States for twenty years and hasn’t fallen under suspicion yet, but a slimy school staffer threatens to change that. Amazingly, heroically, she’s saved from their encounter by Ethan, a widowed pediatrician with an increasingly withdrawn teenage son, Theo. And Theo is in need of a Spanish tutor. Ethan’s in need of a wake-up call, and he can’t help but fall hard for Ana.
There are all the complications you would expect in such a scenario: Should Ana tell Ethan her secret? Can she trust him with it? What will her overprotective brother do when he finds out she’s taken up with a yanqui? Why shouldn’t she grasp on to what little happiness she’s offered in an otherwise precarious life? So yes, the story does go into predictable territory, and does play out pretty much as you would expect, but it’s so lovely and thoughtful and sensual as it does so that it’s not even an issue. I felt so much the hopeless, all-consuming longing that both felt for each other. Ugh, the description of Ana being woken from half-sleep by Ethan’s drowsy want, and how she lost herself to him in that moment, was so incredibly spot-on it was shocking and, in context, heartbreaking.
Ethan’s reflections on the complex motivations behind the behaviour of the moms who flirted with him were equally familiar to me: how the sudden change in identity and physicality, the sheer boredom of trading productive work for repetitive play, can unmoor many women and cause them to grapple for attention and novelty in desperate and inappropriate ways. I love it so much when a story reaches out to you unexpectedly like that, when it perfectly recreates a favourite sensation, precisely annunciates your most private emotions. And I appreciated the thoughtful treatment of the immigration issue — how damaging and ridiculously unfair deportation can be when so often the circumstances are much more complicated than we’ve been led to expect. I loved this story for addressing so precisely and beautifully the many issues it brought up while at the same time capturing the delirious, consuming sensation of lust and love together.
Lila
Reviewed from ARC.
September 17, 2014
4 stars.
Yours to Keep featured lovable characters, authentic dialogue and storyline, and sizzling hot chemistry. Author Serena Bell tackled a plot that I've personally never read, and I loved it.
Spanish tutor Ana Traveres is an illegal immigrant who lives in constant fear of being sent back to the Dominican Republic. When the gorgeous Dr. Ethan Hansen overhears his son's principal getting more than overly familiar with Ana, he comes to her rescue, and asks for her to tutor his son. She finally agrees, even though she's been trying to stay out of the limelight as much as possible. Throughout it all, we learn about Ethan and how he's been dealing with being a single parent since his wife died eight years ago and Ana's dealing with US immigration troubles and trust issues because of her previous boyfriend. Eventually, of course, Ana gives in to her resistance to Ethan and sparks fly.
And my rob, when they're in the car and he says, "I want to feel how hot you are." *fans self* It's hot.
I really loved these characters. Ethan was pretty swoony, and Ana was definitely a character that I was rooting for. I loved Ethan's son, Theo, too. I didn't like Ana's brother, and while I understand the reason for the education on illegal immigrants living in the United States, I wasn't necessarily crazy about a political agenda being pushed on me. Also, some of the descriptions went on and on a bit too much. As far as the romance and story and other characters go, though, I loved it.
Even though we knew where this story was headed, I thought it got there in an original way and I was surprised by how much I enjoyed reading this. This was the first thing that I read by Bell, but I will definitely be checking out everything else she ever writes. You should, too.
For more reviews and bookish talk, visit our blog at Pretty Sassy Cool
Yours to Keep featured lovable characters, authentic dialogue and storyline, and sizzling hot chemistry. Author Serena Bell tackled a plot that I've personally never read, and I loved it.
Spanish tutor Ana Traveres is an illegal immigrant who lives in constant fear of being sent back to the Dominican Republic. When the gorgeous Dr. Ethan Hansen overhears his son's principal getting more than overly familiar with Ana, he comes to her rescue, and asks for her to tutor his son. She finally agrees, even though she's been trying to stay out of the limelight as much as possible. Throughout it all, we learn about Ethan and how he's been dealing with being a single parent since his wife died eight years ago and Ana's dealing with US immigration troubles and trust issues because of her previous boyfriend. Eventually, of course, Ana gives in to her resistance to Ethan and sparks fly.
"We're going on a date."
"I don't want to go on a date. I want you to kiss me like that for hours. And you can do other stuff at the same time if you want, but I don't want you to stop kissing me."
And my rob, when they're in the car and he says, "I want to feel how hot you are." *fans self* It's hot.
I really loved these characters. Ethan was pretty swoony, and Ana was definitely a character that I was rooting for. I loved Ethan's son, Theo, too. I didn't like Ana's brother, and while I understand the reason for the education on illegal immigrants living in the United States, I wasn't necessarily crazy about a political agenda being pushed on me. Also, some of the descriptions went on and on a bit too much. As far as the romance and story and other characters go, though, I loved it.
Even though we knew where this story was headed, I thought it got there in an original way and I was surprised by how much I enjoyed reading this. This was the first thing that I read by Bell, but I will definitely be checking out everything else she ever writes. You should, too.
For more reviews and bookish talk, visit our blog at Pretty Sassy Cool
November 18, 2013
I love this book. The story is great, the pacing is smooth and believable. Serena has shown 2 different world, where Ethan is living a great life, luxury & great job but inspite of all these, he lives a robotic life and numb. While Ana , lives on the opposite side, loads of hardship and the constant fear that she and her family will get caught as they are illegal immigrants, but despite of all that, Ana and her family manage to survive for 20 years with whatever little they have.
Ethan came at the right time and save Ana from being molested and using her status against her. So he saves her and offer her the tutor job. They we're strongly attracted to each other, at first Ana fight hard not to give in because of her fear about her situation, while Ethan realized that he needs her. She woke him up from his "sleepwalking" , a daily routine of his, work and Theo (his son) is all his life not knowing what he misses.They give it a try, of course no secrets can be kept long and shits in life happens Ethan found out about her status, got freak out but then came out a solution to marry her, thinking its a contractual marriage but its not as easy as it seems. Ana's brother did not like the idea of it and went to threatened Ethan and his son which cause him to back out even though he loves Ana . As a responsible loving father, you would understand Ethans' reaction on this matter and you cant blame him while Ana was really heartbroken not just because of her chance to get her status fix but she love him, and you know the saying when it rain it pours. Poor Ana has to go through it, until one event brought them together and decided to give it a second chance. It involves forgiveness and acceptance. and i love Ethan , his smooth, caring, loving and funny .
The issues are real. The way people reacts on a certain matter is real. Sometime we read books that are too good to be true, but we love it because it gives us that good feeling and all this wonderful things are just happening in our head but and only little chance that it can all be true. 50/50 real and imagination.
Serena shows 2 different sides of life, the beautiful and ugly one but in the end true love gives you reason to trust and give that little leap of faith a chance, and when the person is right, and you are right for each other , your fate will take its own course.
a must try read. not intense, not dark, not heavy with make out scenes.. its pure life.. the reality of life.
Ethan came at the right time and save Ana from being molested and using her status against her. So he saves her and offer her the tutor job. They we're strongly attracted to each other, at first Ana fight hard not to give in because of her fear about her situation, while Ethan realized that he needs her. She woke him up from his "sleepwalking" , a daily routine of his, work and Theo (his son) is all his life not knowing what he misses.They give it a try, of course no secrets can be kept long and shits in life happens Ethan found out about her status, got freak out but then came out a solution to marry her, thinking its a contractual marriage but its not as easy as it seems. Ana's brother did not like the idea of it and went to threatened Ethan and his son which cause him to back out even though he loves Ana . As a responsible loving father, you would understand Ethans' reaction on this matter and you cant blame him while Ana was really heartbroken not just because of her chance to get her status fix but she love him, and you know the saying when it rain it pours. Poor Ana has to go through it, until one event brought them together and decided to give it a second chance. It involves forgiveness and acceptance. and i love Ethan , his smooth, caring, loving and funny .
The issues are real. The way people reacts on a certain matter is real. Sometime we read books that are too good to be true, but we love it because it gives us that good feeling and all this wonderful things are just happening in our head but and only little chance that it can all be true. 50/50 real and imagination.
Serena shows 2 different sides of life, the beautiful and ugly one but in the end true love gives you reason to trust and give that little leap of faith a chance, and when the person is right, and you are right for each other , your fate will take its own course.
a must try read. not intense, not dark, not heavy with make out scenes.. its pure life.. the reality of life.
December 20, 2018
https://iloveromanticfiction.com/2014...
Basic story: Ana Travares has spend the majority of her life trying to fly under the radar. Having come to the US as a child on a visa, the sudden death of her mother left her, her brother and sister alone and with illegal immigrant status. She makes her living as a Spanish tutor and teaches ESL at the local school. The changes in the law are making it more and more difficult for her to make a living as she has no social security, no bank account, no identity.
Her brother Ricky, who’s more like a father, warns her to trust no-one. Advice she follows until she meets her new student Theo and his father Ethan Hansen. She feels an immediate kinship with Theo, who lost his mother around the same age she did. Ethan makes an impact on her too. He seems to see into the deepest parts of her. The parts she has to keep hidden to ensure her survival and that of her family.
For years Ethan has been raising his son alone, with no time for anything other than work. The day he meets Ana changes all of that. He’s desperate to get to know her better, but he doesn’t want to jeopardise the connection his son has with her. She’s the only thing that makes Theo smile lately. The more time she spends with them, the more Ethan falls – and the feeling is mutual. Ana knows she has to tell him the truth before they fall too far, but the truth is grim. What if she can’t be his to keep?
Why you should read this: You know how even as much as you may love romance, you can get a little tired of re-reading essentially the same story over and over? Well this book was a welcome surprise. It deals with a storyline I haven’t come across very often with well-rounded characters who weren’t social stereotypes. The tension between Ana and Ethan was off the charts hot and I liked that Ethan was a bit older than your average hero. I had a lot of sympathy for the characters and it dealt with some emotional matters, yet it was balanced with banter and humour.
What you might hate: The premise is a little heavier than perhaps other Loveswept novels but I think it’s dealt with well – you won’t feel depressed by the subject matter, it’s a well-told story with a very satisfying ending.
Rating: I give Yours to Keep a solid 4/5 – it was original, emotional and heartwarming.
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