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Running Home
Carmen always had a wild streak about her while growing up in this small town. Everyone use to say her only saving grace in this world was her best friend Walker, who tried to keep the flighty girl grounded. But life was too big for her to live in this one stop light kind of town; she had dreams, and wants, that could take her anywhere but staying there. Anything was better than being stuck in the perpetuating cycle of being born, and dying, in this hell hole she called the reality of a small town girl.
Walker was the only anchor that could hold her home, she lived for that boy. So how do you explain to someone that staying there would only suffocate the possibilities of making a better life for oneself? Running away was the only option, and leaving a piece of her heart with him, would keep her strong out in the real world; at least she hoped it would.
After years of trying to make it on her own, struggling through life, and trying to stay clean, the only reality she sees at surviving now is going back to the place she tried so hard to break free from. Unsure if her old life is willing to accept the choices she has made, the lone thought that matters to her is hoping she still has the only man she has counted on her entire life in her corner. You can always go home, but will they be willing to take you back?
Walker was the only anchor that could hold her home, she lived for that boy. So how do you explain to someone that staying there would only suffocate the possibilities of making a better life for oneself? Running away was the only option, and leaving a piece of her heart with him, would keep her strong out in the real world; at least she hoped it would.
After years of trying to make it on her own, struggling through life, and trying to stay clean, the only reality she sees at surviving now is going back to the place she tried so hard to break free from. Unsure if her old life is willing to accept the choices she has made, the lone thought that matters to her is hoping she still has the only man she has counted on her entire life in her corner. You can always go home, but will they be willing to take you back?
276 pages, Kindle Edition
First published October 5, 2013
6 people are currently reading
585 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 37 reviews
October 7, 2013
*I was given a copy from the author in exchange for my honest review*
I just loved this book! Carmen and Walker are best friends, but they secretly love each other. Carmen is hell bent on leaving the little town life and wants to head to the big city life. Walker tries to talk her into to staying, but soon realizes nothing he says will change her mind. Carmen knows Walker won't leave the small town life, because his dreams involve that small town life. Minutes after graduating Carmen leaves without so much as a good-bye to anybody. Walker is crushed, but eventually he realizes he needs to move on.
Life in the big city isn't what it's cracked up to be, Carmen soon realizes. She ends up stripping to make enough money to buy some big boobs, so she can get roles in movies. However, the only roles she ends up getting are in porn movies. This ends up leading her into the dangerous lifestyle and soon she is wrapped up in drugs as well.
In the meantime, Walker has finally met somebody who piqued his interest since Carmen had left years earlier. Sadie is exactly what he needed in his life. He is finally over Carmen and gives his all to Sadie. Then the unthinkable happens and once again Walker is alone.
Carmen hits rock bottom and ends up in prison, but it is the final straw for her and she realizes she needs to go back home to the one person who was always there for her. So the day before she is released she calls Walker and asks that he come and get her. And of course Walker, being such a great person agrees. They have many trials and tribulations through the rest of the story, and there is plenty of angst to go around.
Let me just say that Walker is the whole sha-bang. I adore him in this story. And his dog Waylon, oh my gosh, I loved him! He was fat and lazy 90% of the time, but when it came down to work, he was giving his all. And the scene with the little girl that went missing had me crying like a little baby!! I think that was my favorite part of the whole book.
I give this book 5 well earned stars! I can't wait to read more from this author in the future.
I just loved this book! Carmen and Walker are best friends, but they secretly love each other. Carmen is hell bent on leaving the little town life and wants to head to the big city life. Walker tries to talk her into to staying, but soon realizes nothing he says will change her mind. Carmen knows Walker won't leave the small town life, because his dreams involve that small town life. Minutes after graduating Carmen leaves without so much as a good-bye to anybody. Walker is crushed, but eventually he realizes he needs to move on.
Life in the big city isn't what it's cracked up to be, Carmen soon realizes. She ends up stripping to make enough money to buy some big boobs, so she can get roles in movies. However, the only roles she ends up getting are in porn movies. This ends up leading her into the dangerous lifestyle and soon she is wrapped up in drugs as well.
In the meantime, Walker has finally met somebody who piqued his interest since Carmen had left years earlier. Sadie is exactly what he needed in his life. He is finally over Carmen and gives his all to Sadie. Then the unthinkable happens and once again Walker is alone.
Carmen hits rock bottom and ends up in prison, but it is the final straw for her and she realizes she needs to go back home to the one person who was always there for her. So the day before she is released she calls Walker and asks that he come and get her. And of course Walker, being such a great person agrees. They have many trials and tribulations through the rest of the story, and there is plenty of angst to go around.
Let me just say that Walker is the whole sha-bang. I adore him in this story. And his dog Waylon, oh my gosh, I loved him! He was fat and lazy 90% of the time, but when it came down to work, he was giving his all. And the scene with the little girl that went missing had me crying like a little baby!! I think that was my favorite part of the whole book.
I give this book 5 well earned stars! I can't wait to read more from this author in the future.
October 8, 2013
3.5 Stars but had 4 Star Potential
First Part 3 Stars/ Second Part 3.5 Stars
As you can tell by my rating, I was completely torn on this book. After reading the blurb I have to admit I made an ass out of myself by assuming it was a typical small town boy meets girl love story. Cue the BUZZER sound; that was as far from the truth as if I were to say I don’t find tattooed bad boys attractive. Carmen Westin is an eager beaver to flee from the small town lifestyle; she quotes “Refused to dies in this one stop light kind of town.”
She has had a tough upbringing; both her parents were addicted to drugs that resulted in them giving her up at the age of eight to the care of her grandparents. Unfortunately for Carmen, this stigma of having druggie parents is a cloud that continues to hoover over her due to the small knit community where everyone knows her background.
However, I never read an attempt by Carmen to change how people perceived her. Instead she lies down and doesn’t fight to prove the town wrong.
“No one expected me to do anything with my life anyhow, might as well live up to their expectations right?”
It is completely understandable that after enduring the harsh perceptions of the small town that Carmen would want to find solace in another city. Graduation comes she is ready to break out to follow her dreams. I was excited but then I realized we never find out what her goals are for her future. Rather all we hear is how she can’t wait to leave this town, or dreams of name in lights—what do you want your name in lights for? Acting? Singing? She leaves graduation without saying goodbyes to her best friend Walker and her grandparents; leaving them with no inclination of where she was headed. I mean she hitchhikes out of town WTF?
Where the heroine is stubbornly (borderline dumb) independent and dissatisfied with small town life, her best friend Walker Mason, all-star athlete (yummy until opens mouth he whines too much) is the polar opposite. I do believe in the case of these two friends opposites do attract. He is the stereotypical “golden boy” of the small town. He literally is there for Carmen in any and every situation
“This was the man who would pick me up and brought me home from school, always made sure I had eaten a meal, held my hair back when I partook in too much alcohol, and loved me unconditionally…I was Carmen the screw up, the girl who would never be good enough for Walker the town prince.”
We get both POVs which is more frustrating in the first part of the book than insightful. I wanted to slap both of these characters several times. Carmen is so unconfident that she refuses to think Walker could love her more than friends. Walker is too much of a pansy to fight to get her to stay one minute he talks about how much he loves her
“So to hear that she is still hell bent on leaving this town basically breaks my heart in two. I have loved that girl since I laid eyes on her walking into Miss Treva’s third grade.”
Okay he’s loved her for that long then a switch flips and he says stuff like
“I had to take control of my future; I knew she wasn’t going to be a part of it so might as well find someone else to have a little fun with.”
UGHH *Pulling my hair*
Second Part
I do not want to ruin too much of the climaxes that Carmen endures on her own while she chases her “dreams” in California. Let’s just say she continues to fall until she reaches rock bottom. I will mention that part of her downfall deals with drugs. I have to say this surprised me, as much as she fought to be nothing like her parents only partaking in alcohol or as she referred to “light stuff not heavy stuff.” All I could do was shake my head as Carmen continued to make bad decision after bad decision. It takes quite a few until she gets a wake- up call.
While Carmen spirals to the bottom, back in small town South Dakota, Walker captures his dream of joining the sheriff’s department.
I am so happy we have some constant secondary characters in the second part of the book. They are a huge reason the second half was better for me; especially Walker’s partners at the police department—Derek and Bridger. They crack me up and they call Walker out on many occasions which have me shouting “FINALLY!!!”
“It’s been over a year, stop fucking sulking and deal with shit…Eventually you need to stop fucking being a pansy. Get off your ass and live again. Go get your dick sucked, have a one night stand, hell have a threesome! Just start living.” (Derek)
Or even better quote
“Shit please princess, you’re more emotional than my thirteen year old sister.” (Bridger)
Couldn’t have said it better myself. The author really improves with canny banter in this half. Walker truly was the best friend anyone could have. He becomes Carmen’s knight and shining armor once again after six years of no word. I did feel the reunion was not that realistic. They never talk about her abrupt departure after graduation it’s just swept under the rug. However, we do see tremendous growth from both characters as the story winds to a close. Walker gains some back bone and Carmen matures which makes her a more likeable heroine.
“I realized he wanted me to join him and for a split second contemplated running again. But look at how well running worked out for me last time, epic failure.”
It is so refreshing to see rather than putting the blame on other people, she has grown to accept her faults and decides to learn from them. In the last 25% of the book there is some suspense that was thrown from left field but enjoyable nonetheless. The ending I would give 4 stars. Do not cross off this author. In one book you get the opportunity to see her writing skills/style progress; I look forward to see what else she has in store.
“I can never explain completely why I ran away all those years ago, but I know what brought me back. Walker.”
"I received an ARC copy in exchange for an honest review"
First Part 3 Stars/ Second Part 3.5 Stars
As you can tell by my rating, I was completely torn on this book. After reading the blurb I have to admit I made an ass out of myself by assuming it was a typical small town boy meets girl love story. Cue the BUZZER sound; that was as far from the truth as if I were to say I don’t find tattooed bad boys attractive. Carmen Westin is an eager beaver to flee from the small town lifestyle; she quotes “Refused to dies in this one stop light kind of town.”
She has had a tough upbringing; both her parents were addicted to drugs that resulted in them giving her up at the age of eight to the care of her grandparents. Unfortunately for Carmen, this stigma of having druggie parents is a cloud that continues to hoover over her due to the small knit community where everyone knows her background.
However, I never read an attempt by Carmen to change how people perceived her. Instead she lies down and doesn’t fight to prove the town wrong.
“No one expected me to do anything with my life anyhow, might as well live up to their expectations right?”
It is completely understandable that after enduring the harsh perceptions of the small town that Carmen would want to find solace in another city. Graduation comes she is ready to break out to follow her dreams. I was excited but then I realized we never find out what her goals are for her future. Rather all we hear is how she can’t wait to leave this town, or dreams of name in lights—what do you want your name in lights for? Acting? Singing? She leaves graduation without saying goodbyes to her best friend Walker and her grandparents; leaving them with no inclination of where she was headed. I mean she hitchhikes out of town WTF?
Where the heroine is stubbornly (borderline dumb) independent and dissatisfied with small town life, her best friend Walker Mason, all-star athlete (yummy until opens mouth he whines too much) is the polar opposite. I do believe in the case of these two friends opposites do attract. He is the stereotypical “golden boy” of the small town. He literally is there for Carmen in any and every situation
“This was the man who would pick me up and brought me home from school, always made sure I had eaten a meal, held my hair back when I partook in too much alcohol, and loved me unconditionally…I was Carmen the screw up, the girl who would never be good enough for Walker the town prince.”
We get both POVs which is more frustrating in the first part of the book than insightful. I wanted to slap both of these characters several times. Carmen is so unconfident that she refuses to think Walker could love her more than friends. Walker is too much of a pansy to fight to get her to stay one minute he talks about how much he loves her
“So to hear that she is still hell bent on leaving this town basically breaks my heart in two. I have loved that girl since I laid eyes on her walking into Miss Treva’s third grade.”
Okay he’s loved her for that long then a switch flips and he says stuff like
“I had to take control of my future; I knew she wasn’t going to be a part of it so might as well find someone else to have a little fun with.”
UGHH *Pulling my hair*
Second Part
I do not want to ruin too much of the climaxes that Carmen endures on her own while she chases her “dreams” in California. Let’s just say she continues to fall until she reaches rock bottom. I will mention that part of her downfall deals with drugs. I have to say this surprised me, as much as she fought to be nothing like her parents only partaking in alcohol or as she referred to “light stuff not heavy stuff.” All I could do was shake my head as Carmen continued to make bad decision after bad decision. It takes quite a few until she gets a wake- up call.
While Carmen spirals to the bottom, back in small town South Dakota, Walker captures his dream of joining the sheriff’s department.
I am so happy we have some constant secondary characters in the second part of the book. They are a huge reason the second half was better for me; especially Walker’s partners at the police department—Derek and Bridger. They crack me up and they call Walker out on many occasions which have me shouting “FINALLY!!!”
“It’s been over a year, stop fucking sulking and deal with shit…Eventually you need to stop fucking being a pansy. Get off your ass and live again. Go get your dick sucked, have a one night stand, hell have a threesome! Just start living.” (Derek)
Or even better quote
“Shit please princess, you’re more emotional than my thirteen year old sister.” (Bridger)
Couldn’t have said it better myself. The author really improves with canny banter in this half. Walker truly was the best friend anyone could have. He becomes Carmen’s knight and shining armor once again after six years of no word. I did feel the reunion was not that realistic. They never talk about her abrupt departure after graduation it’s just swept under the rug. However, we do see tremendous growth from both characters as the story winds to a close. Walker gains some back bone and Carmen matures which makes her a more likeable heroine.
“I realized he wanted me to join him and for a split second contemplated running again. But look at how well running worked out for me last time, epic failure.”
It is so refreshing to see rather than putting the blame on other people, she has grown to accept her faults and decides to learn from them. In the last 25% of the book there is some suspense that was thrown from left field but enjoyable nonetheless. The ending I would give 4 stars. Do not cross off this author. In one book you get the opportunity to see her writing skills/style progress; I look forward to see what else she has in store.
“I can never explain completely why I ran away all those years ago, but I know what brought me back. Walker.”
"I received an ARC copy in exchange for an honest review"
September 16, 2013
*****I was given the ARC of this book by the author in exchange for an honest review.*****
Carmen was a typical girl stuck in a small town and looking for an escape. She has dreams of seeing her name in lights, and hitting it big in Hollywood. Only she didn’t know that by hitting it big in Hollywood, she would also find herself hitting rock bottom. After some choice decisions, Carmen finds herself calling the only person who was ever there for her growing up, Walker Mason. The last time Walker saw Carmen she was hitchhiking along the side of the highway leaving his life for good. Now after six years, he is brought back together with her. Carmen and Walker’s story takes twists and turns in Carmen’s rode to finding happiness. These events ended up sealing the deal for me with this book.
I must say if you are a fan of books that are a little out of the box then this one is for you!! I loved this book, but I also like books that are raw and full of real life situations that anyone could find themselves in; books that aren’t totally all hearts and flowers. The only negative thing I could say about his book would be there were a couple misplaced or left out words. I am not a huge grammar person, so truthfully that didn’t really bother me. I would defiantly recommend this book to anyone looking for something out of the norm but with some romance along the way.
Carmen was a typical girl stuck in a small town and looking for an escape. She has dreams of seeing her name in lights, and hitting it big in Hollywood. Only she didn’t know that by hitting it big in Hollywood, she would also find herself hitting rock bottom. After some choice decisions, Carmen finds herself calling the only person who was ever there for her growing up, Walker Mason. The last time Walker saw Carmen she was hitchhiking along the side of the highway leaving his life for good. Now after six years, he is brought back together with her. Carmen and Walker’s story takes twists and turns in Carmen’s rode to finding happiness. These events ended up sealing the deal for me with this book.
I must say if you are a fan of books that are a little out of the box then this one is for you!! I loved this book, but I also like books that are raw and full of real life situations that anyone could find themselves in; books that aren’t totally all hearts and flowers. The only negative thing I could say about his book would be there were a couple misplaced or left out words. I am not a huge grammar person, so truthfully that didn’t really bother me. I would defiantly recommend this book to anyone looking for something out of the norm but with some romance along the way.
considering
October 7, 2013Cover love! and interesting blurb.
Carmen always had a wild streak about her while growing up in this small town. Everyone use to say her only saving grace in this world was her best friend Walker who tried to keep the flighty girl grounded. But life was too big for her to live in this one stop light kind of town; she had dreams and wants that could take her anywhere but staying there. Anything was better than being stuck in the perpetuating cycle of being born and dying in this hell hole she called the reality of a small town girl.
Walker was the only anchor that could hold her home, she lived for that boy. So how do you explain to someone that staying there would only suffocate the possibilities of making a better life for oneself? Running away was the only option, and leaving a piece of her heart with him would keep her strong out in the real world, at least she hoped it would.
After years of trying to make it on her own, struggling through life and trying to stay clean, the only reality she sees at surviving now is going back to the place she tried so hard to break free from. Unsure if her old life is willing to accept the choices she has made, the lone thought that matters to her is hoping she still has the only man she has counted on her entire life in her corner. You can always go home, but will they be willing to take you back?
Carmen always had a wild streak about her while growing up in this small town. Everyone use to say her only saving grace in this world was her best friend Walker who tried to keep the flighty girl grounded. But life was too big for her to live in this one stop light kind of town; she had dreams and wants that could take her anywhere but staying there. Anything was better than being stuck in the perpetuating cycle of being born and dying in this hell hole she called the reality of a small town girl.
Walker was the only anchor that could hold her home, she lived for that boy. So how do you explain to someone that staying there would only suffocate the possibilities of making a better life for oneself? Running away was the only option, and leaving a piece of her heart with him would keep her strong out in the real world, at least she hoped it would.
After years of trying to make it on her own, struggling through life and trying to stay clean, the only reality she sees at surviving now is going back to the place she tried so hard to break free from. Unsure if her old life is willing to accept the choices she has made, the lone thought that matters to her is hoping she still has the only man she has counted on her entire life in her corner. You can always go home, but will they be willing to take you back?
September 16, 2013
Who Picked This? book blog was given the ARC of this book by the author in exchange for an honest review.
Carmen and Walkers story is definitely not your typical small town boy meets girl love story. Carmen is a big fish in a little pond. She is eager to escape small town life for the lure of the Hollywood lights. Walker is happy in their small town and wants nothing more than to graduate, become a police officer,and have his best friend Carmen by his side. Big dreams and small towns don't mix and Carmen leaves her home and best friend behind to make a name for herself.
I am a big fan of books that go outside the lines of traditional love stories. This book takes you on an emotional ride and gives you a glimpse into what happens when your big dreams don't go as planned. I had a bit of trouble getting into the story and connecting with the characters in the beginning. As the story progressed I became more invested in the characters and where their story was taking them. Running Home is a real, raw and emotional story that will pull you in and keep you reading. Definitely recommend for anyone looking for a book that is anything but typical.
August 12, 2014
Stefanie's Review
5 Stars!!
I'm going to start off with telling you this is a MUST-READ !! From the first to last page you felt every emotion that Tara Hardenbrook was writing. I would LOVE to see this become a LifeTime Movie.
We start off with Carmen Westin & Walker Mason who are best friends & secretly in love with each other.
As they prepare to graduate high school they are heading in different directions. Carmen who's had a hard childhood wants nothing more then to see her name in lights. Walker on the other hand. He wants Carmen to see him the same way that he see's her. Carmen keeps telling Walker that once they graduate that she's out of South Dakota for good. Walker tries his hardest to get her to stay with him. The day they graduate Walker looks all over for Carmen. As he's driving down the road that's when it happens. He see's Carmen getting into the truck, and driving out of his life forever!!
Over the next 6 years their lives lead COMPLETELY different life styles...
I'll start with Walker. He was absolutely devastated when Carmen walked out of his life. Without even a goodbye, a letter or anything. He went on to join the police department.& is on the search and rescue team. Waylon is his partner and boy is he lazy. He only moves when you give beggin strips. Oh, I forgot to mention that Waylon's a dog. Walker tries his hardest to find love again. But, he always compares them to Carmen. Until he meets Sadie... He finally has found love
Carmen has moved to Los Angeles to try and make it big, and to finally have her name in lights. She gets a job being a waitress at a strip club. She was a excellent flirt. Unfortunately, the money wasn't enough. After her coworkers/roommates talk her into becoming a stripper. She gets on the stage and falls in love with the money. Carmen finally makes enough to buy herself a Jeep and a brand new pair of boobs!! She then starts doing porn. Carmen is the hottest porn star around. Her name is known all over in the industry. She makes movie after movie. Wins awards! Then, the director asks her if she wants to make even MORE money. By becoming an escort.
Walker has found love when he wasn't expecting it. Him & Waylon are the best search and rescue team around. After being with Sadie a little over a year he decides to ask her to marry him. Of course she says "YES" Walker still thinks of Carmen and hopes she's doing OK. Sadie & Walker take the next year planning their wedding & fixing up the farm house to move into the night of their wedding. Everything is all set and he's waiting for Sadie to show up. Except she never does. And, for the 2nd time in his life. He's left heartbroken...
Carmen is now an escort. She goes out with guys to be the pretty, quiet date. Then, be the perfect lay. Get the good tip and start again tomorrow. Her life was perfect. She has the most expensive clothes, jewelry. Everything a girl could want and more. That is until she gets addicted to prescription drugs.
After getting into a lot of trouble. There was only 1 person Carmen could call. The one person who always was there for her. The only person she ever really loved. Walker.
Now that Walker & Carmen are back in each others lives it's not that easy. Carmen is screwed up big time. She needs a lot of help. Now, she's back home and she needs Walker, his family & her grandma. All the feelings that Walker & Carmen felt before come rushing back. But, can they act on it before they both fix their lives.
Tara Harenbrook did a excellent job making you really feel for the characters in this book. When they hurt you hurt. I felt every emotion in this book. Once you pick it up. You won't put it down until you're finished
"Carmen, you are so beautiful. I want you and only you.. Please tell me you want this too? I've wanted you for so long now; I don't think I can stop if you don't say no right now."
"I can't promise it's going to be easy being back home, but I can say I will be here for you when you need it. This is your home Carmen. This town, these people, and even this old yellow house. Let us help you."
"I can wait Carmen, and I will wait. Once we have you fixed then we can try again. Take all the time in the world, I'm not going anywhere."
Check out my other reviews & giveaways, reveals at:
https://www.facebook.com/MommysLateNi...
http://mommyslatenightbookup.blogspot...
5 Stars!!
I'm going to start off with telling you this is a MUST-READ !! From the first to last page you felt every emotion that Tara Hardenbrook was writing. I would LOVE to see this become a LifeTime Movie.
We start off with Carmen Westin & Walker Mason who are best friends & secretly in love with each other.
As they prepare to graduate high school they are heading in different directions. Carmen who's had a hard childhood wants nothing more then to see her name in lights. Walker on the other hand. He wants Carmen to see him the same way that he see's her. Carmen keeps telling Walker that once they graduate that she's out of South Dakota for good. Walker tries his hardest to get her to stay with him. The day they graduate Walker looks all over for Carmen. As he's driving down the road that's when it happens. He see's Carmen getting into the truck, and driving out of his life forever!!
Over the next 6 years their lives lead COMPLETELY different life styles...
I'll start with Walker. He was absolutely devastated when Carmen walked out of his life. Without even a goodbye, a letter or anything. He went on to join the police department.& is on the search and rescue team. Waylon is his partner and boy is he lazy. He only moves when you give beggin strips. Oh, I forgot to mention that Waylon's a dog. Walker tries his hardest to find love again. But, he always compares them to Carmen. Until he meets Sadie... He finally has found love
Carmen has moved to Los Angeles to try and make it big, and to finally have her name in lights. She gets a job being a waitress at a strip club. She was a excellent flirt. Unfortunately, the money wasn't enough. After her coworkers/roommates talk her into becoming a stripper. She gets on the stage and falls in love with the money. Carmen finally makes enough to buy herself a Jeep and a brand new pair of boobs!! She then starts doing porn. Carmen is the hottest porn star around. Her name is known all over in the industry. She makes movie after movie. Wins awards! Then, the director asks her if she wants to make even MORE money. By becoming an escort.
Walker has found love when he wasn't expecting it. Him & Waylon are the best search and rescue team around. After being with Sadie a little over a year he decides to ask her to marry him. Of course she says "YES" Walker still thinks of Carmen and hopes she's doing OK. Sadie & Walker take the next year planning their wedding & fixing up the farm house to move into the night of their wedding. Everything is all set and he's waiting for Sadie to show up. Except she never does. And, for the 2nd time in his life. He's left heartbroken...
Carmen is now an escort. She goes out with guys to be the pretty, quiet date. Then, be the perfect lay. Get the good tip and start again tomorrow. Her life was perfect. She has the most expensive clothes, jewelry. Everything a girl could want and more. That is until she gets addicted to prescription drugs.
After getting into a lot of trouble. There was only 1 person Carmen could call. The one person who always was there for her. The only person she ever really loved. Walker.
Now that Walker & Carmen are back in each others lives it's not that easy. Carmen is screwed up big time. She needs a lot of help. Now, she's back home and she needs Walker, his family & her grandma. All the feelings that Walker & Carmen felt before come rushing back. But, can they act on it before they both fix their lives.
Tara Harenbrook did a excellent job making you really feel for the characters in this book. When they hurt you hurt. I felt every emotion in this book. Once you pick it up. You won't put it down until you're finished
"Carmen, you are so beautiful. I want you and only you.. Please tell me you want this too? I've wanted you for so long now; I don't think I can stop if you don't say no right now."
"I can't promise it's going to be easy being back home, but I can say I will be here for you when you need it. This is your home Carmen. This town, these people, and even this old yellow house. Let us help you."
"I can wait Carmen, and I will wait. Once we have you fixed then we can try again. Take all the time in the world, I'm not going anywhere."
Check out my other reviews & giveaways, reveals at:
https://www.facebook.com/MommysLateNi...
http://mommyslatenightbookup.blogspot...
October 9, 2013
“A release was what I craved, an escape into the world unknown.”
Small town girl looking to escape the suffocation of life and run away to LA only to find herself selling her body in one way or another to survive. Sounds pretty cliché right? Well, I am happy to report that while yes Carmen did go from small town girl to cocktail waitress then stripper then porn star and finally drug addict this book wasn’t as cliché as you might think.
Yes, I wanted to slap Carmen and knock some sense into her throughout most of the book and yes, I prayed for an intervention STAT and yes, I thought she was out of her mind crazy for leaving behind a best friend like Walker. But, when she does finally hit rock bottom and sees the light then works to redeem herself you see a whole other side of Carmen. This was the Carmen that I rooted for, the one I had sympathy for and the one that I wanted so badly to finally end up with Walker, because we all know that he is the bomb and the best thing for her.
Told in dual POV, I was instantly sucked into the story and loved reading about both Carmen and Walker. I loved that you see them together as best friends in high school and get of sense of the friendship and underlying love that they have for each other. While I hated that Carmen ran and left Walker behind I was glad that the author also gave us insight into Walkers life without Carmen and how he struggled as well. I think this was ultimately what enabled me to connect with the characters and want to see that happily ever after for them. Wether or not that HEA would be with each other was another story and one that I was concerned about. I mean lets be honest, how does a good man like Walker get over the fact that the women he has loved for almost his whole life used and sold her body to survive. I guess you will just have to read the book to see how it all works out
Running Home was an interesting and engaging take on the whole escaping small town life theme. I enjoyed the story and although I would have liked a little more grit when it came to Carmen’s life in LA I still appreciated the author didn’t make it out to seem as if it was easy for Carmen to go from down and out to recovered and happy. There was struggle and realism. The twist in the plot at the end also added that little something to keep the book from becoming predictable. And of course there was Walker; sweet, sexy, lovable, Walker <3
Small town girl looking to escape the suffocation of life and run away to LA only to find herself selling her body in one way or another to survive. Sounds pretty cliché right? Well, I am happy to report that while yes Carmen did go from small town girl to cocktail waitress then stripper then porn star and finally drug addict this book wasn’t as cliché as you might think.
Yes, I wanted to slap Carmen and knock some sense into her throughout most of the book and yes, I prayed for an intervention STAT and yes, I thought she was out of her mind crazy for leaving behind a best friend like Walker. But, when she does finally hit rock bottom and sees the light then works to redeem herself you see a whole other side of Carmen. This was the Carmen that I rooted for, the one I had sympathy for and the one that I wanted so badly to finally end up with Walker, because we all know that he is the bomb and the best thing for her.
Told in dual POV, I was instantly sucked into the story and loved reading about both Carmen and Walker. I loved that you see them together as best friends in high school and get of sense of the friendship and underlying love that they have for each other. While I hated that Carmen ran and left Walker behind I was glad that the author also gave us insight into Walkers life without Carmen and how he struggled as well. I think this was ultimately what enabled me to connect with the characters and want to see that happily ever after for them. Wether or not that HEA would be with each other was another story and one that I was concerned about. I mean lets be honest, how does a good man like Walker get over the fact that the women he has loved for almost his whole life used and sold her body to survive. I guess you will just have to read the book to see how it all works out
Running Home was an interesting and engaging take on the whole escaping small town life theme. I enjoyed the story and although I would have liked a little more grit when it came to Carmen’s life in LA I still appreciated the author didn’t make it out to seem as if it was easy for Carmen to go from down and out to recovered and happy. There was struggle and realism. The twist in the plot at the end also added that little something to keep the book from becoming predictable. And of course there was Walker; sweet, sexy, lovable, Walker <3
October 8, 2013
A bad girl you will love!
Running home is about two best friends in a small town. Carmen is a lost bad girl looking to getting out of town and move to Hollywood. Her saving grace while stuck in South Dakota is Walker the town hero and football star. Carmen leaves the day of their high school graduation and breaks Walker’s heart. The next seven years is a hard time for Carmen and a life changing event sends her running home and back to Walker. While this plot and storyline has been done A LOT in many books, T.A does this common storyline in a very refreshing and different way and makes it unique. Running home was not like any other books I have read with similar plots. While reading this book I loved Carmen and hated her; she broke my heart and mended it back together. So many emotions were present in this book and I felt them along with the main characters. Walker, well he is an amazing sweetheart and I want a Walker in my life. ONE WORD AND THAT IS WAYLON!!! I am jealous that I will never have a Waylon and his love. I enjoyed this book, it took me about 4 hours to read and was well written with decent editing. I was hooked by the end of the first chapter and didn’t want to put it down. A small thing that T.A did different in this book was get rid of the chapter headings and used songs instead. I love this idea, I knew the tone of what I was about to read by the song choice. I look forward from more books by T.A Hardenbrook and I will be buying and enjoying her next book Hot Southern Mess.
Running home is about two best friends in a small town. Carmen is a lost bad girl looking to getting out of town and move to Hollywood. Her saving grace while stuck in South Dakota is Walker the town hero and football star. Carmen leaves the day of their high school graduation and breaks Walker’s heart. The next seven years is a hard time for Carmen and a life changing event sends her running home and back to Walker. While this plot and storyline has been done A LOT in many books, T.A does this common storyline in a very refreshing and different way and makes it unique. Running home was not like any other books I have read with similar plots. While reading this book I loved Carmen and hated her; she broke my heart and mended it back together. So many emotions were present in this book and I felt them along with the main characters. Walker, well he is an amazing sweetheart and I want a Walker in my life. ONE WORD AND THAT IS WAYLON!!! I am jealous that I will never have a Waylon and his love. I enjoyed this book, it took me about 4 hours to read and was well written with decent editing. I was hooked by the end of the first chapter and didn’t want to put it down. A small thing that T.A did different in this book was get rid of the chapter headings and used songs instead. I love this idea, I knew the tone of what I was about to read by the song choice. I look forward from more books by T.A Hardenbrook and I will be buying and enjoying her next book Hot Southern Mess.
October 8, 2013
Received from: T.A. Hardenbrook (in exchange for an honest review)/Blog Tour
As soon as she graduates, Carmen is leaving her small home town. She’s going to shake the dust off her feet and go where her name can shine in lights. She gets there, but is all that glitters really made of gold. Is it enough?
Home is where the heart is, and Carmen had certainly left her heart back in South Dakota. Luckily, she also had a heart to carry with her. Hunter had loved her since they met as small children. One phone call and he rushes to collect her. She has had enough of the big city and wants nothing more than to run home and hope that she can salvage what’s left of her life. He knows she has always been his best friend and his future. Can he make her see that?
I love the strong personalities throughout this book. There are doubts and misgivings voiced by each of the main characters, but ultimately they are both real in all of their perfections and imperfections. I love how the story is told linearly, but with unusual and oddly spaced flashbacks that provide background into Carmen’s family. Ms. Hardenbrook is able to paint a scene so that you feel that you have visited places you’ve never been. I look forward to reading more stories from this gifted author.
Recommended for: 18+ due to violence and sexual content
As soon as she graduates, Carmen is leaving her small home town. She’s going to shake the dust off her feet and go where her name can shine in lights. She gets there, but is all that glitters really made of gold. Is it enough?
Home is where the heart is, and Carmen had certainly left her heart back in South Dakota. Luckily, she also had a heart to carry with her. Hunter had loved her since they met as small children. One phone call and he rushes to collect her. She has had enough of the big city and wants nothing more than to run home and hope that she can salvage what’s left of her life. He knows she has always been his best friend and his future. Can he make her see that?
I love the strong personalities throughout this book. There are doubts and misgivings voiced by each of the main characters, but ultimately they are both real in all of their perfections and imperfections. I love how the story is told linearly, but with unusual and oddly spaced flashbacks that provide background into Carmen’s family. Ms. Hardenbrook is able to paint a scene so that you feel that you have visited places you’ve never been. I look forward to reading more stories from this gifted author.
Recommended for: 18+ due to violence and sexual content
October 11, 2013
Running Home was an interesting mix between the nice gentleman and the rebellious girl. Carmen was left to live with grandparents in a small town in South Dakota, but she always wanted more and wanted to get out of there and make it big in Hollywood. Walker is a great guy who always saw the real Carmen under her rough façade. He never dreamed of leaving his small town and because of that, Carmen breaks his heart when she leaves him behind. This book is done in alternation POVs which is great because you see how totally different their lives are over the 6 years this story follows them. I loved that instead of chapter numbers, Hardenbrook gave each chapter a song so it set the tone of the chapter for you. Sex, drugs, love, heartbreak, suspense, humor…it’s all in there. I give this book a solid 4 stars! ~Kendra
October 19, 2013
carmen could not wait to graduate from school & escape from small town life. only problem is leaving her best friend, wslker. he is crushed the only woman he loves is leaving him.life happens & carmen comes backto town.
this is a great read
this is a great read
October 16, 2013
I liked this story...BUT, it just felt so rushed. I would have given it 5 stars if only we got more from Walker 's heartbreak and their reunion!
Want to read
December 24, 2013Amazon Freebie 12/24/13
Want to read
December 24, 2013Amazon Freebie
12/24/13
http://www.amazon.com/dp/B00FOBSG0G/r...
12/24/13
http://www.amazon.com/dp/B00FOBSG0G/r...
March 4, 2018
Loved Carmen and Walker's story. I've always believed that you could go home no matter what life throws at you. There is always someone who will be there to pick you up when you need it most!
September 30, 2014
Running Home on Amazon
|Goodreads|4 starsAmy's Review:
There are so many wonderful things I can say about this novel. Let me start by saying that I loved the chapter titles. I loved that there were no chapter numbers, simply a song name and band. This totally helped me get into the right mindset for the upcoming chapter ... perfect choice :)
Carmen and Walker are total BFFs. From eight to eighteen they were inseparable. I imagined late night studying, football games, bon fires, parties, a little trouble, many long talks, etc. Carmen is haunted by the past of her junkie parents and resents being raised by her grandparents. Walker is the friend that shows her life is still ok to go on living. Through school they are super tight and totally rely on each other. But Carmen has bigger plans for her life.
Leaving Walker devastated, Carmen starts on her new life. She is expecting amazing opportunities and friendships and that just isn't the case. She quickly learns that to make it in the city of lights you need to learn to shed your soul. Hitting rock bottom Carmen runs to the only place she has ever felt safe ... the arms of Walker.
To me, this story was semi predictable. No I did not see all the crazy things coming that Carmen would go through. But I feel like I knew ultimately how the story would end. I loved all the twists and turns throughout and I loved the vivid descriptions T.A. Hardenbrook used when describing the characters. At the end of the story is a brief description for another book coming out Winter 2013 ... I am totally excited to see what is next to come from this author!
Synopsis:
*This novel is intended for 18+ for mature content. Strippers,porn, drugs,law enforcement, and of course romance are all included in this package!
Carmen always had a wild streak about her while growing up in this small town. Everyone use to say her only saving grace in this world was her best friend Walker who tried to keep the flighty girl grounded. But life was too big for her to live in this one stop light kind of town; she had dreams and wants that could take her anywhere but staying there. Anything was better than being stuck in the perpetuating cycle of being born and dying in this hell hole she called the reality of a small town girl.
Walker was the only anchor that could hold her home, she lived for that boy. So how do you explain to someone that staying there would only suffocate the possibilities of making a better life for oneself? Running away was the only option, and leaving a piece of her heart with him would keep her strong out in the real world, at least she hoped it would.
After years of trying to make it on her own, struggling through life and trying to stay clean, the only reality she sees at surviving now is going back to the place she tried so hard to break free from. Unsure if her old life is willing to accept the choices she has made, the lone thought that matters to her is hoping she still has the only man she has counted on her entire life in her corner. You can always go home, but will they be willing to take you back?
Running Home on Amazon
October 13, 2013
~Meli’s Review~
We meet Carmen and Walker during their last week of highschool. Carmen is a spunky girl wants out of the small town and Walker is the total country boy never plans on leaving their small town. The only issue with that is they both love each other and neither one want to tell the other.
Carmen leaves the small town literally hours after graduation. Walker goes though the police academy and becomes and officer in his home town.
The book goes over a course of 6 years. Alternating from Carmens point of view to Walkers. Each one moving on with their lives and each one having to deal with heartbreak.
The author did an amazing job with keeping me guessing, keeping me wanting more and making sure I have tissues when I needed them.
Walker to me is the perfect man. His country ways and manors are just down right hot and sexy. His love for Carmen never goes away. Not saying he didn’t try but end the end his heart belonged to Carmen.
Carmen herself went through so much in her 6 years away and never stopped loving Walker. When she needed him the most he came for her. He helped her recover and their love grew stronger even with her doubts that she isn’t good enough for him.
Through everything that happened with them and all the devastation Carmen and Walker showed that no matter what once you find your soul mate you will always find your way back to them and that true love can conquer all.
I give this amazing story 5 humongous stars
~Joni’s Review~
Carmen couldn’t wait to get out of there one red-light town and move on to Los Angeles and see her name in lights. She hated everything about her hometown. Except Walker. She knew she had to get out and that he never wanted to leave so she would have to leave him behind.
I fell in love with Walker right off. What’s not to love about a southern gentleman, even at eighteen, who loves his best friend Carmen unconditionally. He saw the real Carmen and not the persona she put on for everyone else.
The closer it got to graduation, Walker started to try to distance himself to prepare for her departure. When the day came and they were finally graduates he thought he had a few days left to change her mind.
He was wrong. My first heartbreak for Walker.
Carmen finds life isn’t as easy as she thought it would be in the big city. She didn’t regret leaving her small town though she knew that soon enough she’d fulfill her dreams.
Walker proceeds on with his life after Carmen. He goes on to the Academy and joins the Sherriff’s dept. like he always wanted. He still hadn’t moved on from Carmen though.
That is until he sees a broken down car on the side of the road and he meets Sadie.
Another year passes and Carmen is finally making a name for herself. Even though it’s not quite what she wants.
Then again my heart breaks for Walker.
Over the first four years Carmen was gone so much happens in her life until ultimately her life spirals completely out of her control. She finds herself somewhere she never thought she’d be.
Almost two years later she places a call that she never thought she would.
Like the best friend that he is Walker is there for her in a heartbeat. It’s time to go home.
The author did an amazing job with this story. I was drawn in to their lives immediately and fell in love with Walker a little with every chapter. Every one needs someone in their lives they can depend on and Carmen was lucky she had that. The issues that were faced in here where very real issues and to see how it would all turn out had a huge smile on my face.
I absolutely LOVED this book and cannot wait to see what TA brings us next.
I also give Running Home 5 Humongous Stars!!!
We meet Carmen and Walker during their last week of highschool. Carmen is a spunky girl wants out of the small town and Walker is the total country boy never plans on leaving their small town. The only issue with that is they both love each other and neither one want to tell the other.
Carmen leaves the small town literally hours after graduation. Walker goes though the police academy and becomes and officer in his home town.
The book goes over a course of 6 years. Alternating from Carmens point of view to Walkers. Each one moving on with their lives and each one having to deal with heartbreak.
The author did an amazing job with keeping me guessing, keeping me wanting more and making sure I have tissues when I needed them.
Walker to me is the perfect man. His country ways and manors are just down right hot and sexy. His love for Carmen never goes away. Not saying he didn’t try but end the end his heart belonged to Carmen.
Carmen herself went through so much in her 6 years away and never stopped loving Walker. When she needed him the most he came for her. He helped her recover and their love grew stronger even with her doubts that she isn’t good enough for him.
Through everything that happened with them and all the devastation Carmen and Walker showed that no matter what once you find your soul mate you will always find your way back to them and that true love can conquer all.
I give this amazing story 5 humongous stars
~Joni’s Review~
Carmen couldn’t wait to get out of there one red-light town and move on to Los Angeles and see her name in lights. She hated everything about her hometown. Except Walker. She knew she had to get out and that he never wanted to leave so she would have to leave him behind.
I fell in love with Walker right off. What’s not to love about a southern gentleman, even at eighteen, who loves his best friend Carmen unconditionally. He saw the real Carmen and not the persona she put on for everyone else.
The closer it got to graduation, Walker started to try to distance himself to prepare for her departure. When the day came and they were finally graduates he thought he had a few days left to change her mind.
He was wrong. My first heartbreak for Walker.
Carmen finds life isn’t as easy as she thought it would be in the big city. She didn’t regret leaving her small town though she knew that soon enough she’d fulfill her dreams.
Walker proceeds on with his life after Carmen. He goes on to the Academy and joins the Sherriff’s dept. like he always wanted. He still hadn’t moved on from Carmen though.
That is until he sees a broken down car on the side of the road and he meets Sadie.
Another year passes and Carmen is finally making a name for herself. Even though it’s not quite what she wants.
Then again my heart breaks for Walker.
Over the first four years Carmen was gone so much happens in her life until ultimately her life spirals completely out of her control. She finds herself somewhere she never thought she’d be.
Almost two years later she places a call that she never thought she would.
Like the best friend that he is Walker is there for her in a heartbeat. It’s time to go home.
The author did an amazing job with this story. I was drawn in to their lives immediately and fell in love with Walker a little with every chapter. Every one needs someone in their lives they can depend on and Carmen was lucky she had that. The issues that were faced in here where very real issues and to see how it would all turn out had a huge smile on my face.
I absolutely LOVED this book and cannot wait to see what TA brings us next.
I also give Running Home 5 Humongous Stars!!!
November 29, 2014
You can always go home, but will they be willing to take you back?
Carmen Westin comes from two parents who were drug addicts they dropped her off at the age of eight with her grandparents in South Dakota. Carmen was raised by her grandparents she always wondered if her parents would come back for her….they never did. She grew up resenting them and vowed never to turn out like them. Carmen is just waiting to graduate and hop a greyhound bus to Hollywood and see her name in lights. The one constant person in her life has been her best friend who she secretly loves Walker Mason, he has been there through thick and thin.
Walker Mason the local super hero who would go on to join the sheriffs department after graduation. Best friends with Carmen since the age of eight, never once doubted her ability to succeed in life even when she claimed she was domed. He has loved her since he laid eyes on her in the third grade and is afraid to tell her. He’s the only person in the world who has seen the real Carmen. After ten years of devoted friendship he was finally going to loose his best friend to the lure of the Hollywood lights.
Part two of the book continues over a course of 6 years with Carmen’s life in Hollywood and Walker as he tries to move on back home without his best friend. While in Hollywood she starts off as a cocktail waitress in a local strip club, she’s living with three other roommates and is not making enough money to support herself. She then decides to try her hand at stripping figuring there will be more money involved. After this things start to turn out pretty good for her….sort of speak. I could go on but I’ll stop I don’t want to spoil anymore I feel as a reader you should experience Carmen’s journey with her.
As for Walker he does what everyone expected him to do after graduation he goes on to the Academy and joins the local sheriffs department. He still has not been able to move on from Carmen. Until he sees a broken down car on the side of the road and he meets Sadie.
Will Walker finally move on with his life and open his heart again with Sadie?
Will Carmen make a name for herself in Hollywood or will her big dreams just be that?
Running Home was told in dual POV it helps you get a better understanding to what each person is going through in there lives.
I loved this book and there were times my heart broke for both Carmen and Walker….especially Carmen she went through so much in her life I just wanted her to finally be happy. The author did an excellent job writing these characters you really feel for them.
"Carmen, you are so beautiful. I want you and only you… Please tell me you want this too? I've wanted you for so long now; I don't think I can stop if you don't say no right now."
"I can wait Carmen, and I will wait. Once we have you fixed then we can try again. Take all the time in the world, I'm not going anywhere."
Carmen Westin comes from two parents who were drug addicts they dropped her off at the age of eight with her grandparents in South Dakota. Carmen was raised by her grandparents she always wondered if her parents would come back for her….they never did. She grew up resenting them and vowed never to turn out like them. Carmen is just waiting to graduate and hop a greyhound bus to Hollywood and see her name in lights. The one constant person in her life has been her best friend who she secretly loves Walker Mason, he has been there through thick and thin.
Walker Mason the local super hero who would go on to join the sheriffs department after graduation. Best friends with Carmen since the age of eight, never once doubted her ability to succeed in life even when she claimed she was domed. He has loved her since he laid eyes on her in the third grade and is afraid to tell her. He’s the only person in the world who has seen the real Carmen. After ten years of devoted friendship he was finally going to loose his best friend to the lure of the Hollywood lights.
Part two of the book continues over a course of 6 years with Carmen’s life in Hollywood and Walker as he tries to move on back home without his best friend. While in Hollywood she starts off as a cocktail waitress in a local strip club, she’s living with three other roommates and is not making enough money to support herself. She then decides to try her hand at stripping figuring there will be more money involved. After this things start to turn out pretty good for her….sort of speak. I could go on but I’ll stop I don’t want to spoil anymore I feel as a reader you should experience Carmen’s journey with her.
As for Walker he does what everyone expected him to do after graduation he goes on to the Academy and joins the local sheriffs department. He still has not been able to move on from Carmen. Until he sees a broken down car on the side of the road and he meets Sadie.
Will Walker finally move on with his life and open his heart again with Sadie?
Will Carmen make a name for herself in Hollywood or will her big dreams just be that?
Running Home was told in dual POV it helps you get a better understanding to what each person is going through in there lives.
I loved this book and there were times my heart broke for both Carmen and Walker….especially Carmen she went through so much in her life I just wanted her to finally be happy. The author did an excellent job writing these characters you really feel for them.
"Carmen, you are so beautiful. I want you and only you… Please tell me you want this too? I've wanted you for so long now; I don't think I can stop if you don't say no right now."
"I can wait Carmen, and I will wait. Once we have you fixed then we can try again. Take all the time in the world, I'm not going anywhere."
November 4, 2013
There are so many wonderful things I can say about this novel. Let me start by saying that I loved the chapter titles. I loved that there were no chapter numbers, simply a song name and band. This totally helped me get into the right mindset for the upcoming chapter ... perfect choice :)
Carmen and Walker are total BFFs. From eight to eighteen they were inseparable. I imagined late night studying, football games, bon fires, parties, a little trouble, many long talks, etc. Carmen is haunted by the past of her junkie parents and resents being raised by her grandparents. Walker is the friend that shows her life is still ok to go on living. Through school they are super tight and totally rely on each other. But Carmen has bigger plans for her life.
Leaving Walker devastated, Carmen starts on her new life. She is expecting amazing opportunities and friendships and that just isn't the case. She quickly learns that to make it in the city of lights you need to learn to shed your soul. Hitting rock bottom Carmen runs to the only place she has ever felt safe ... the arms of Walker.
To me, this story was semi predictable. No I did not see all the crazy things coming that Carmen would go through. But I feel like I knew ultimately how the story would end. I loved all the twists and turns throughout and I loved the vivid descriptions T.A. Hardenbrook used when describing the characters. At the end of the story is a brief description for another book coming out Winter 2013 ... I am totally excited to see what is next to come from this author!
Carmen and Walker are total BFFs. From eight to eighteen they were inseparable. I imagined late night studying, football games, bon fires, parties, a little trouble, many long talks, etc. Carmen is haunted by the past of her junkie parents and resents being raised by her grandparents. Walker is the friend that shows her life is still ok to go on living. Through school they are super tight and totally rely on each other. But Carmen has bigger plans for her life.
Leaving Walker devastated, Carmen starts on her new life. She is expecting amazing opportunities and friendships and that just isn't the case. She quickly learns that to make it in the city of lights you need to learn to shed your soul. Hitting rock bottom Carmen runs to the only place she has ever felt safe ... the arms of Walker.
To me, this story was semi predictable. No I did not see all the crazy things coming that Carmen would go through. But I feel like I knew ultimately how the story would end. I loved all the twists and turns throughout and I loved the vivid descriptions T.A. Hardenbrook used when describing the characters. At the end of the story is a brief description for another book coming out Winter 2013 ... I am totally excited to see what is next to come from this author!
January 6, 2017
R - Language (loads of F bombs, lewd conversation), violence, drugs, and descriptive sex
This is very obviously written for a YA audience. Not to slam YA books, since I read many and enjoy them, but it seems writers are enamored with the F word when writing for YA characters. F bombs and a lot of slamming arms against tables, steering wheels, etc., to show anger, annoyance, frustration. Additionally, I know we had to read how bad Carmen's life of debauchery was so we could be happy and relieved for her when she changed her ways, but it was cringe-inducing, and gratuitous.
Carmen is a self-destructive young woman. We find out later what her inner demon is during a drug-induced dream, and it's horrid. Her story is very sad as we watch her go from bad to worse to felon. There's a stark contrast between her and the H, Walker, as his choices keep him on a decent path to adulthood.
The book was either not very well edited, or written in some sort of Faulkneresque stream-of-consciousness. I'm inclined to think it was poorly edited because there were so many mis-spelled words.
This one is going back.
This is very obviously written for a YA audience. Not to slam YA books, since I read many and enjoy them, but it seems writers are enamored with the F word when writing for YA characters. F bombs and a lot of slamming arms against tables, steering wheels, etc., to show anger, annoyance, frustration. Additionally, I know we had to read how bad Carmen's life of debauchery was so we could be happy and relieved for her when she changed her ways, but it was cringe-inducing, and gratuitous.
Carmen is a self-destructive young woman. We find out later what her inner demon is during a drug-induced dream, and it's horrid. Her story is very sad as we watch her go from bad to worse to felon. There's a stark contrast between her and the H, Walker, as his choices keep him on a decent path to adulthood.
The book was either not very well edited, or written in some sort of Faulkneresque stream-of-consciousness. I'm inclined to think it was poorly edited because there were so many mis-spelled words.
This one is going back.
May 1, 2015
Another great book by an author I've recently discovered - T.A.Hardenbrook
I have read everything by this author and every book is amazing! Her characters have such depth that you really feel like you know them and how they think. You understand them. This book is about two best friends Walker and Carmen from a small North Dakota town. She wants out desperately and he wants her to stay just as desperately. She leaves the day of high school graduation. The book proceeds over the next 6 years from each of their viewpoints. Her life in LA is not whitewash she was looking for but she is 'successful'. His life is successful from his point of view - he's gotten the career he's wanted, but not exactly the life he's wanted. Something is missing for both of them. What does HOME mean to each of them? It's a wonderful book. Well worth reading. I could not put it down.
I have read everything by this author and every book is amazing! Her characters have such depth that you really feel like you know them and how they think. You understand them. This book is about two best friends Walker and Carmen from a small North Dakota town. She wants out desperately and he wants her to stay just as desperately. She leaves the day of high school graduation. The book proceeds over the next 6 years from each of their viewpoints. Her life in LA is not whitewash she was looking for but she is 'successful'. His life is successful from his point of view - he's gotten the career he's wanted, but not exactly the life he's wanted. Something is missing for both of them. What does HOME mean to each of them? It's a wonderful book. Well worth reading. I could not put it down.
November 5, 2013
Great book that had me from start to finish...I can honestly say I couldn't put it down!! The storyline was different with lots of twists and turns. The characters had a history which I'm a sucker for!! Love how the author started from the beginning of Carmen & Walker's story and built the book from there. I think this book was very well written and I would highly recommend!!
November 10, 2013
I really enjoyed this book...had an interesting storyline...things happened that I didn't expect..It was not your "cookie cutter" love story by any means..and I loved that it was different..It has an HEA..however, some things still felt "not finished (or rapped up) and I didn't like that..but that's life I guess..not everything can be tied up neatly...GREAT READ!!!
November 4, 2013
i thought this book was good. this book had 2 POV's which was outstanding showing both sides of the story of the couple. I liked the story line and plot to this book. the only negs i have to give was that it dragged on a little bit but hey overall it was a great book!
February 11, 2014
***3.5 L.A. Chewed Me Up And Spit Me Back Out So I'm Gonna Go Back Home Stars***
Quite the story. Carmen was a over the top & annoying and I felt so bad for Walker but you can't help but root for them. Loved the HEA.
Quite the story. Carmen was a over the top & annoying and I felt so bad for Walker but you can't help but root for them. Loved the HEA.
February 12, 2014
Ugh... Terrible all around. The editing, the unrealistic characters that I couldn't care less about. You name it, it was bad. I couldn't force myself past 35%. I got this on sale for 99 cents but I still overpaid.
March 10, 2015
Very good read, my heart hurt for Walker. I really wish author would have included the part where they finally had a talk about they time in L.A. I think it hurt the story by not being in there. Also, I would like to have had a sneak peak of their life a few years down the road.
October 8, 2013
I absolutely LOVED writing this book, and I hope you enjoy reading it too!
October 7, 2013
Review to come during the blog tour mid-October. www.stickyread.blogspot.com
Want to read
October 7, 2013This looks good!
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