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Growing Pains #2
Overcoming Fear
With the shadows of Krista’s past constantly lingering over her, Krista tries to keep herself at a distance from the handsome and effervescent salesman, Sean. The problem is, the more entwined they become working as a team to land the huge client, the closer they inevitably get. Soon Krista can’t help but face the feelings that have grown between them. Sean doesn’t have a great track record with women. He’s always known how to get them, but keeping them has always been another story. He often jumps in with both feet, gets tangled, and goes running. It is when each of them finally face their fears, allowing the other in, that the real danger shows itself. Some pasts are harder to ignore than others.
462 pages, Kindle Edition
First published September 22, 2013
134 people are currently reading
703 people want to read
About the author
K.F. Breene
120 books14.5k followersFollow me!
K.F. Breene is a Wall Street Journal, USA Today, Washington Post, Amazon Most Sold Charts and #1 Kindle Store bestselling author of paranormal romance, urban fantasy and fantasy novels. With millions of books sold, when she's not penning stories about magic and what goes bump in the night, she's sipping wine and planning shenanigans. She lives in Northern California with her husband, two children, and out of work treadmill.
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K.F. Breene is a Wall Street Journal, USA Today, Washington Post, Amazon Most Sold Charts and #1 Kindle Store bestselling author of paranormal romance, urban fantasy and fantasy novels. With millions of books sold, when she's not penning stories about magic and what goes bump in the night, she's sipping wine and planning shenanigans. She lives in Northern California with her husband, two children, and out of work treadmill.
Click FOLLOW for notification of new releases.
Join her mailing list to receive BONUS CONTENT, free stories, and hear about the crazy goings-on of her life. Sign up here ➜ http://bit.ly/KFBContent
Check out her chat group on Goodreads!
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 34 reviews
May 27, 2015
I was torn a little with this book. I wanted to rate it more, but just couldn't.
Happily reading this after the first book in this series and by page 15 I was doing a huge eye roll with a justified snort or derision when Krista goes out running near home and of course bumps into Sean who surprise, surprise, lives nearby. Yet this wasn't mentioned in book one at all? Not even when they picked up each member of the team of time in book one for the wine dinner in the limousine and such a big deal was made out of where Krista lived. All it would have taken was one line from Sean after Marcus had said 'You live out in Bumfuck, Nowhere!' saying something like 'Actually, I live out here too' would have made this seem plausible. Without that lead up, and the two of them suddenly running into each other in surprise when we then discover he is a dedicated surfer and she a runner every day (again, not mentioned in book one!) made this whole notion of the two of them living close together feel like an idea the author came up with between novels that she wanted to write about but had set up for poorly. It really did warrant the eye roll and the snort of derision.
Well done to Breene for her depiction of an abusive relationship. On the whole she did really well with this. But I was at a loss in some of the sections of the book how it was handled. In particular when Jim resurfaces in Krista's own home. We had read time and time again about how freaked out Jim had made Krista in relationships with his abusive actions, and very understandably so. It had led Krista to stopping or slowing things with Sean on more than one occasion. The confrontation with Jim, in which she was locked in her own room with him, thrown to the ground, dragged around by the hair, flung into a closet bodily, and left with bruises from Jim really alarmed me. Particularly with what came afterwards. Add in the threat of rape and kidnapping. It wasn't that Sean stayed with her that night - in fact good on him for that - but that after all she had just been through Sean and Krista 'made love' as the book states.
I was flabbergasted at this. Krista was clearly a girl with issues that she was still working through from her previous abusive relationship with Jim. Much smaller actions that what had occurred with Jim that day in her own personal space in her own home had gotten her quite panicked and almost running for the hills. Yet in the very same room where she had just been abused a few hours prior surely dredging up more emotions from her past that she thought she had put away in her 'Jim box', she then had sex with Sean?? NO!!!! Have him hold her and comfort her while she cries, yes. Have him spend the night by her side cuddling her, yes. But sex? I just couldn't see it as plausible at all based on her past reactions. Yes people will react differently in stressful situations and this is the direction that the author took for this one, but this was just too much for me. It was the point that I almost put the book down.
I did stick with the book in the end, and I am glad that I did. The good did outweigh the bad in this book, but it really did feel like a step down from book one of this series.
Happily reading this after the first book in this series and by page 15 I was doing a huge eye roll with a justified snort or derision when Krista goes out running near home and of course bumps into Sean who surprise, surprise, lives nearby. Yet this wasn't mentioned in book one at all? Not even when they picked up each member of the team of time in book one for the wine dinner in the limousine and such a big deal was made out of where Krista lived. All it would have taken was one line from Sean after Marcus had said 'You live out in Bumfuck, Nowhere!' saying something like 'Actually, I live out here too' would have made this seem plausible. Without that lead up, and the two of them suddenly running into each other in surprise when we then discover he is a dedicated surfer and she a runner every day (again, not mentioned in book one!) made this whole notion of the two of them living close together feel like an idea the author came up with between novels that she wanted to write about but had set up for poorly. It really did warrant the eye roll and the snort of derision.
Well done to Breene for her depiction of an abusive relationship. On the whole she did really well with this. But I was at a loss in some of the sections of the book how it was handled. In particular when Jim resurfaces in Krista's own home. We had read time and time again about how freaked out Jim had made Krista in relationships with his abusive actions, and very understandably so. It had led Krista to stopping or slowing things with Sean on more than one occasion. The confrontation with Jim, in which she was locked in her own room with him, thrown to the ground, dragged around by the hair, flung into a closet bodily, and left with bruises from Jim really alarmed me. Particularly with what came afterwards. Add in the threat of rape and kidnapping. It wasn't that Sean stayed with her that night - in fact good on him for that - but that after all she had just been through Sean and Krista 'made love' as the book states.
I was flabbergasted at this. Krista was clearly a girl with issues that she was still working through from her previous abusive relationship with Jim. Much smaller actions that what had occurred with Jim that day in her own personal space in her own home had gotten her quite panicked and almost running for the hills. Yet in the very same room where she had just been abused a few hours prior surely dredging up more emotions from her past that she thought she had put away in her 'Jim box', she then had sex with Sean?? NO!!!! Have him hold her and comfort her while she cries, yes. Have him spend the night by her side cuddling her, yes. But sex? I just couldn't see it as plausible at all based on her past reactions. Yes people will react differently in stressful situations and this is the direction that the author took for this one, but this was just too much for me. It was the point that I almost put the book down.
I did stick with the book in the end, and I am glad that I did. The good did outweigh the bad in this book, but it really did feel like a step down from book one of this series.
November 13, 2013
I am surprised that this series has been able to keep me hooked. I guess I must enjoy this story and the way it was written, otherwise I would not have just purchased the third book.
I think what has me so hooked is how I am desperately waiting for the leads to finally get together.
I personally prefer a happy ending, and then the bliss that comes with the leads being together, but for some reason, I still enjoy this book.
I think what has me so hooked is how I am desperately waiting for the leads to finally get together.
I personally prefer a happy ending, and then the bliss that comes with the leads being together, but for some reason, I still enjoy this book.
March 8, 2019
Another Great Book. I am hooked on how this love affair is going to turn out. I had high hopes that they would make it. There was some great parts to this story. It took a day and a half to read this book. I am so happy to have found these books.
October 24, 2019
I am sorry to say that I had to put this book down at 50% complete....just too slow and I started to really dislike the characters.... very disappointing
April 4, 2022
I liked this but not as much as the first book. I'm looking forward to reading the last book in the series.
September 3, 2014
So addicted. Coming into this story I knew what I was in for. A lot of yo-yo-ing, slower day to day pace, and a back burner romance. Except - it really works in this series. The build was steeper in this one, much steeper. Bigger things happen and bigger things break. I stayed up to the wee morning hours finally forcing myself to put it down because I needed to get up for work in a couple hours. Then, all day, it sat in the back of my mind, and I couldn't wait to get back to it. I love the writing, and love how all the characters have such depth and lush personalities. To the point that you know how they are going to react before you read it. The story line was a continuation, but got bigger. It suck me in even deeper. I was hoping to reach HEA at the end of this one and no such luck. Bitter sweet ending that strings the reader with a shard of hope. So naturally I downloaded the next one. Like, the second I was done. Really good read.
April 22, 2015
THAT WAS AWEFULL!!! I get why it ended like that....shitty ending but necessary...at least it wasn't a death. But damn, I've always loved all the characters, like Ben, Marcus, Kate and Jasmine. But I really loved Krista and same with Sean. I always thought that Sean's baggage couldn't be as bad as Krista's but after seeing him go into that dark place, where he's so insecure, I felt really sad for him. But I knew one way or another he was going to have to be pushed back and thank goodness he did! I really liked the book, and I knew Jim would eventually come and I was a little worried that Sean or Krista would end up in the hospital but damn Sean held his own. I'm proud...it just really sucks how it ended yenno....still great book man
October 10, 2013
I totally love Marcus!!!
Book 2 was a great compliment and extension of the first book. I was so happy that Monica made little to no appearance. Again, Breene has an amazing talent with character development.
Without giving spoilers, what the heck, Sean!?! His stupidity in the love department confounds me. Krista, as always, was a total sweetheart...I wish she were real. Seriously, her banters have me almost peeing my pants. She is hilarious. KJaz = riot. Those girls are awesome. Can't forget about sweet Ben and feisty Cassie. Seriously, all the characters are great.
On to book 3...woo hoo.
Book 2 was a great compliment and extension of the first book. I was so happy that Monica made little to no appearance. Again, Breene has an amazing talent with character development.
Without giving spoilers, what the heck, Sean!?! His stupidity in the love department confounds me. Krista, as always, was a total sweetheart...I wish she were real. Seriously, her banters have me almost peeing my pants. She is hilarious. KJaz = riot. Those girls are awesome. Can't forget about sweet Ben and feisty Cassie. Seriously, all the characters are great.
On to book 3...woo hoo.
July 8, 2014
After reading the first book in this series I wasn't particularly happy, having found it excruciatingly slow and boring and I wasn't sure I'd even be able to finish it but I did do so, mainly because I had already downloaded the next instalment, Growing Pains, book #2. Now I have finished reading book #2 and am much happier. This was a massive improvement on the first book, I felt much more involved in Sean and Krista's journey and so much more happened in this instalment. I was heartbroken at the way they were forced to separate. I have now downloaded the 3rd book and am looking forward to reading it instead of the dread of the second one.
March 7, 2016
This is the second book of Growing Pains, and it was much better than the first one. I liked the main character, and i was very happy when they hoked up together. I loved how their relationship grew towards the end and hated the decisions they had to make. The end was not what i hoped for.
Her past got her and she had to react, but still i did not like the outcome. I gave 4 stars, i like the story but the peace was slow, sex scene were hot, but still, i missed that something that would pull this book to 5 stars. I will give a shot on the third book.
Her past got her and she had to react, but still i did not like the outcome. I gave 4 stars, i like the story but the peace was slow, sex scene were hot, but still, i missed that something that would pull this book to 5 stars. I will give a shot on the third book.
January 9, 2014
Overcoming Fear the second book in the Growing Pan series was amazing!! This book was so much better than the first book in the series that it blew me away!! The storyline was great the characters had grown so much. The chemistry between Krista & Sean...holy cow...can you say hot!!! The ending made me cry but hoping that book three will bring them back together and give them a happily ever after:)) Now moving into book 3!!!
October 27, 2014
I read this 1100 page book in less than 24hrs. I was gripped by the story in the first book and needed to know what happened. Love the main characters Krista and Sean. This is a roller coaster of emotions of a new relationship that is so intense and both people are fighting against it! LOVED IT! I am already halfway through the third book. Great series!!! Keeps your attention and never a full moment in the life of Krista!
February 6, 2017
I love this series
I love K.F. Breene/Willow Summers because all her characters are real. They're funny, quirky, full of life, fun loving, snarky and above all relatable & true to life. I think this is by far my favorite K.F. book to date. This second installation hits on some very real and scary life events such as love, loss, fear and abusive relationships. This one touched me on a very deep and personal level!
I love K.F. Breene/Willow Summers because all her characters are real. They're funny, quirky, full of life, fun loving, snarky and above all relatable & true to life. I think this is by far my favorite K.F. book to date. This second installation hits on some very real and scary life events such as love, loss, fear and abusive relationships. This one touched me on a very deep and personal level!
October 20, 2013
Okay, so Krista and Sean's story finally develops in this book. There is an actual climax...there is an actual uphill climb and descention, but in all honesty, it's not that great, and yet I was completely absorbed, and bought book 3! I don't know how to explain it. It's like watching a really bad movie over and over again. Gah!
December 30, 2013
Loved this book more than the first cuz the steam factor came into the play ...still in love with Krista and Sean...so perfect for each other! The dialogue is so great and funny and smart - that's what I like the best. The author goes into great detail about the inner workings of marketing, sales and statistics that I'm unfamiliar with...but I didn't mind it. Going for book 3 now
October 28, 2013
Wow what an amazing second book. I love the chemistry between Krista and Sean and all of the other characters are a total relevance and fit in well. I couldn't put this book down and can't wait to start book 3.
January 5, 2014
Loved this a lot more than lost and found! The detail in the book was necessary, funny and addictive. The characters properly came to life and were way more interesting then the first book made them out to be. Was really good :)
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January 11, 2014Krista and Sean.
this sucks. after finally getting together they walk away. I just hope that Krista is safe and the ex will finally leave her be.
Lots of laughs and crying in this book....
this sucks. after finally getting together they walk away. I just hope that Krista is safe and the ex will finally leave her be.
Lots of laughs and crying in this book....
February 22, 2014
I've read some of the more negative reviews and so I'd like to say that I'm rating the series as I read it as a whole and not 3 separate books. Liked the characters; quirky, silly and human. I like Judith McNaught so I don't mind travelling the ups and downs with the characters before the HEA.
December 7, 2016
My heart sunk!
Holy cow... I had to stop reading and regroup. I cried, laughed, and said a few what the flying flapjacks! I love this series and I can't wait to read the next!
Well done KF! Just when I think I've figured it out you throw me a curve!
Holy cow... I had to stop reading and regroup. I cried, laughed, and said a few what the flying flapjacks! I love this series and I can't wait to read the next!
Well done KF! Just when I think I've figured it out you throw me a curve!
October 11, 2013
really good, great continuation from first novel. ending was well thought out cant wait to read the next one.
October 18, 2013
A page turner! I can't wait!!!! I need to read the third book! A truly romantic story- Sean and Krista HAVE To end up together!!!
October 24, 2013
A page turner! I hope to finally get to have Sean & Krista together in the last book. Ugh,.. I love Marcus. I need the 3rd book
November 3, 2013
Definitely better than the first.
June 29, 2017
Is a great book to read
November 14, 2013
Loved it. Could not wait for the third.
February 13, 2014
I couldn't put this book down. It was a great story and hot scenes. I liked this one a lot better than the first - I'm glad I kept up with the series.
October 17, 2014
Loved this book and how the story continued. Read a few pages every time I had a quiet moment, and then well into the night.
May 24, 2015
Too good to stop
Loved the plot and the characters. I couldn't stop reading. I had, however, a problem with the sexual content. A little too graphic a little too much.
Loved the plot and the characters. I couldn't stop reading. I had, however, a problem with the sexual content. A little too graphic a little too much.
July 9, 2015
Hot Hot Hot!!! Whew! Great work. I'm a little miffed at the end...but I'm hopeful the next one can fix that. Fingers crossed!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 34 reviews