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Destiny Bay: Forever Yours #1
My Little Runaway
She ran. He wants answers. But some secrets are just too painful to share.
Jenny jumps out of airplanes in order to block out the painful memories of what made her run away from her family. Reid wants to fix the damage. The only problem is, he doesn't know how deep it is, and how impossible it will be to cover over. Will his intoxicating love tempt her to risk it all again? Or will it end up making everything worse after all?
Includes love scenes.
Original published in print by Dell Candlelight Ecstasy and recently revamped and revised as part of the Destiny Bay Series.
Jenny jumps out of airplanes in order to block out the painful memories of what made her run away from her family. Reid wants to fix the damage. The only problem is, he doesn't know how deep it is, and how impossible it will be to cover over. Will his intoxicating love tempt her to risk it all again? Or will it end up making everything worse after all?
Includes love scenes.
Original published in print by Dell Candlelight Ecstasy and recently revamped and revised as part of the Destiny Bay Series.
247 pages, Kindle Edition
First published March 1, 1986
59 people are currently reading
560 people want to read
About the author
Helen Conrad
73 books74 followersaka Jena Hunt and Raye Morgan.
Helen Conrad was born on April 11, 1945 in Pasadena, California, U.S.A. and grew up between Holland, Guam, and California, and spent a few years in Washington, D.C. as well. She obtained a B.A. in English Literature.
Helen was working toward a Master's in Library Science when she dropped out to have her first son. "One look into those baby blue eyes and I knew it was going to be a long time before I went back to school. But with young ones, you do have time to read, and the more I read, the more I learned about writing". She started writing because she felt guilty about spending so much time reading. "Through writing I figured I could still immerse myself in the stories I love, but I could actually claim I was working! The amazing thing was when I sold my first book and the excuse was justified. Dreams really do come true!"
After years of writing romantic suspense in the style of Mary Stewart and children's books in a lot of styles, she finally sold a romance to Jove's Second Chance at Love and there was celebration all around-at least in her ever-patient family of husband and four boys. She published four more romances for Jove under the name Jena Hunt, then began writing Silhouette Desires. A few sales to Bantam Loveswept and Harlequin Romance, Temptationand SuperRomance under the name Helen Conrad followed, as well as to Harpers, Dell Ecstasy, Mills & Boon, and even an historical with Zebra. Today, she is concentrating on Silhouette Romance, completely captivated by the breezy fun and touching poignancy of their compact, to-the-point form. She feels the perfect "quick read" should make the reader smile, sigh and put the book down feeling better about the state of love in the world.
Now, she lives in the Los Angeles area now with Nick, her geologist-computers cientist husband and the two of her four sons who still live at home."Having the boys around helps keep me up on the current trends," she says with a laugh. "But writing helps keep me in touch with the romance that weaves through the everyday lives we all live."
Helen Conrad was born on April 11, 1945 in Pasadena, California, U.S.A. and grew up between Holland, Guam, and California, and spent a few years in Washington, D.C. as well. She obtained a B.A. in English Literature.
Helen was working toward a Master's in Library Science when she dropped out to have her first son. "One look into those baby blue eyes and I knew it was going to be a long time before I went back to school. But with young ones, you do have time to read, and the more I read, the more I learned about writing". She started writing because she felt guilty about spending so much time reading. "Through writing I figured I could still immerse myself in the stories I love, but I could actually claim I was working! The amazing thing was when I sold my first book and the excuse was justified. Dreams really do come true!"
After years of writing romantic suspense in the style of Mary Stewart and children's books in a lot of styles, she finally sold a romance to Jove's Second Chance at Love and there was celebration all around-at least in her ever-patient family of husband and four boys. She published four more romances for Jove under the name Jena Hunt, then began writing Silhouette Desires. A few sales to Bantam Loveswept and Harlequin Romance, Temptationand SuperRomance under the name Helen Conrad followed, as well as to Harpers, Dell Ecstasy, Mills & Boon, and even an historical with Zebra. Today, she is concentrating on Silhouette Romance, completely captivated by the breezy fun and touching poignancy of their compact, to-the-point form. She feels the perfect "quick read" should make the reader smile, sigh and put the book down feeling better about the state of love in the world.
Now, she lives in the Los Angeles area now with Nick, her geologist-computers cientist husband and the two of her four sons who still live at home."Having the boys around helps keep me up on the current trends," she says with a laugh. "But writing helps keep me in touch with the romance that weaves through the everyday lives we all live."
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 31 reviews
February 5, 2017
==>Re-read February 5, 2017 (box edition)
==>Read August 16, 2015
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Nossa heroína tenta esquecer os problemas com esportes de auto risco, festas e amigos que são imaturos. Mas ao longo dos anos ela criou o próprio negócio que se tornou um sucesso.
O heróis esquece os próprios sonhos para salvar o bom nome da família devido a um erro do pai dele.
Ele virou um cara típico da alta sociedade que frequenta country club e precisa de uma stepford wife ao lado dele para a sociedade aceitar e para satisfazer os clientes dele.
Os dois são diferentes demais para um relacionamento entre eles dar certo.
Mas mesmo assim os dois estão apaixonados e tentam duramente, mas a heroína sente que ela nunca vai encaixar naquele mundo apesar dos pais dela serem ricos.
O final é bem legal porque normalmente nos livros é a nossa heroína que muda para agradar o herói e neste caso foi ele que resolveu mudar e seguir o amor da vida dele.
É uma história fofa e sem muitas pretensões.
----------------
Our heroine tries to forget the problems with high-risk sports, parties and friends who are immature. But over the years she has created his own business which became a success.
The heroes forget own dreams to save the family name due to an error of his father.
He became a man of high society who frequents country club and need a stepford wife beside him for the society to accept and to meet his clients.
The two are too different for a relationship between them work.
But even then the two are in love and they try hard, but the heroine feels she will never fit in that world despite her parents are rich.
The ending is pretty cool because usually in books is our heroine that changes to suit the hero and in this case it was he who decided to change and follow the love of his life.
It's a cute story and without many pretensions.
==>Read August 16, 2015
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"If Today Was a Fish, I’d Throw It Back”
"Act happy, and even if you don’t become happy, you’ll have the next best thing."
“You’ve got to stop jumping out of airplanes.” She frowned, pretending she cared. “Okay ... If you stop smoking.” He put out a hand, and they shook solemnly."
Nossa heroína tenta esquecer os problemas com esportes de auto risco, festas e amigos que são imaturos. Mas ao longo dos anos ela criou o próprio negócio que se tornou um sucesso.
O heróis esquece os próprios sonhos para salvar o bom nome da família devido a um erro do pai dele.
Ele virou um cara típico da alta sociedade que frequenta country club e precisa de uma stepford wife ao lado dele para a sociedade aceitar e para satisfazer os clientes dele.
Os dois são diferentes demais para um relacionamento entre eles dar certo.
Mas mesmo assim os dois estão apaixonados e tentam duramente, mas a heroína sente que ela nunca vai encaixar naquele mundo apesar dos pais dela serem ricos.
O final é bem legal porque normalmente nos livros é a nossa heroína que muda para agradar o herói e neste caso foi ele que resolveu mudar e seguir o amor da vida dele.
É uma história fofa e sem muitas pretensões.
----------------
Our heroine tries to forget the problems with high-risk sports, parties and friends who are immature. But over the years she has created his own business which became a success.
The heroes forget own dreams to save the family name due to an error of his father.
He became a man of high society who frequents country club and need a stepford wife beside him for the society to accept and to meet his clients.
The two are too different for a relationship between them work.
But even then the two are in love and they try hard, but the heroine feels she will never fit in that world despite her parents are rich.
The ending is pretty cool because usually in books is our heroine that changes to suit the hero and in this case it was he who decided to change and follow the love of his life.
It's a cute story and without many pretensions.
August 6, 2014
This could have been so much better. The story was all over the place and the author tried to shove too many things into the storyline. To big reveals that fall flat and too many different things that get in the way of a romance, this book was a disaster.
Little Jenny ran away from home. She has a big secret (not so big secret) that would tear apart her family forever (not really) so she decides she must leave and never return (which this probably hurt them more than the secret would have). This secret is meant to be huge and devastating. Only it wasn't. In the end, it may have been something that could have happened, it just wasn't believable. More like a spoiled child looking for a reason to never look back.
Little Jenny likes to chase thrills. She jumps out of airplanes, she goes white water rafting, she does anything for a thrill. Not because she likes it or because she's a daredevil, but to help her forget the past. This right here, I'm not sure I believe. We all have our coping mechanisms, but usually they are things we don't have to try to force ourselves into. And I think her secret wasn't big enough to allow her to try and do death defying stunts that she was trying to pull.
Little Jenny pays a visit. Jenny goes back home with Reid. She sees what kind of woman he needs. The kind that don't jump out of planes, the kind that don't get their hands dirty with actual work, the kind that dress up preppy and not so slutty (I agree with Reid, she dressed a bit too provocatively not to be seen as slutty). Her hair is wrong, her dress is wrong, and her personality is wrong to fit into this life.
Little Jenny grew up to be a wild child because she was adopted and her parents regretted adopting her. What? So, Jenny is adopted as an infant and feels like she never fit in. She was a baby. A real baby who wasn't walking or talking yet. People are a product of their environment. Personality comes into play, yes, but if it is the only life she has ever known, why hasn't she been able to fit in? Why hasn't she been able to make any friends? This storyline didn't work with the age of her adoption. At all. I could see her being a wild child because of her personality. But being a wild child to prove to everyone she doesn't belong is stupid.
Little Jenny finally gets Stuffy McGee, err, I mean Reid. She has lusted after him all her life. He has never taken an interest. Until much later in the book and he reveals that a 21 year old in law school was lusting after a 16 year old. Hmmm... not buying it. Age means jack in romance unless one of them is a minor. I have a hard time believing that Reid had noticed her as a woman before she was grown and out of school. That's just me though.
Little Jenny changes everything about her to fit into Reid's life. Reid needs a socialite on his arm. Jenny revamps everything about herself to fit in. Reid doesn't notice. Reid was supposed to love her as she was and didn't notice the change in personality or dress. Right. The man is an idiot if he didn't. She tries her best and still manages to screw everything up. She can't do anything right. Reid doesn't help her at all and blames her for all the mistakes. Why does she love this man? I'm not quite sure. Reid doesn't try to help her fit in at all and doesn't notice how her changing to fit his world has made her miserable. All he sees are her mistakes. He doesn't go after her when she decides she just can't fit into his world. This love wasn't meant to be. I don't care what the story says.
Reid can't live without Jenny and soon finds himself quitting the socialite scene, changing offices and living a more down to earth life so he can have the girl he loves. Eh. The whole thing is absurd.
This book was a disaster and I'm just thankful it was freebie. I'm resolved to not continue the series and I will be wary of this authors work in the future.
Little Jenny ran away from home. She has a big secret (not so big secret) that would tear apart her family forever (not really) so she decides she must leave and never return (which this probably hurt them more than the secret would have). This secret is meant to be huge and devastating. Only it wasn't. In the end, it may have been something that could have happened, it just wasn't believable. More like a spoiled child looking for a reason to never look back.
Little Jenny likes to chase thrills. She jumps out of airplanes, she goes white water rafting, she does anything for a thrill. Not because she likes it or because she's a daredevil, but to help her forget the past. This right here, I'm not sure I believe. We all have our coping mechanisms, but usually they are things we don't have to try to force ourselves into. And I think her secret wasn't big enough to allow her to try and do death defying stunts that she was trying to pull.
Little Jenny pays a visit. Jenny goes back home with Reid. She sees what kind of woman he needs. The kind that don't jump out of planes, the kind that don't get their hands dirty with actual work, the kind that dress up preppy and not so slutty (I agree with Reid, she dressed a bit too provocatively not to be seen as slutty). Her hair is wrong, her dress is wrong, and her personality is wrong to fit into this life.
Little Jenny grew up to be a wild child because she was adopted and her parents regretted adopting her. What? So, Jenny is adopted as an infant and feels like she never fit in. She was a baby. A real baby who wasn't walking or talking yet. People are a product of their environment. Personality comes into play, yes, but if it is the only life she has ever known, why hasn't she been able to fit in? Why hasn't she been able to make any friends? This storyline didn't work with the age of her adoption. At all. I could see her being a wild child because of her personality. But being a wild child to prove to everyone she doesn't belong is stupid.
Little Jenny finally gets Stuffy McGee, err, I mean Reid. She has lusted after him all her life. He has never taken an interest. Until much later in the book and he reveals that a 21 year old in law school was lusting after a 16 year old. Hmmm... not buying it. Age means jack in romance unless one of them is a minor. I have a hard time believing that Reid had noticed her as a woman before she was grown and out of school. That's just me though.
Little Jenny changes everything about her to fit into Reid's life. Reid needs a socialite on his arm. Jenny revamps everything about herself to fit in. Reid doesn't notice. Reid was supposed to love her as she was and didn't notice the change in personality or dress. Right. The man is an idiot if he didn't. She tries her best and still manages to screw everything up. She can't do anything right. Reid doesn't help her at all and blames her for all the mistakes. Why does she love this man? I'm not quite sure. Reid doesn't try to help her fit in at all and doesn't notice how her changing to fit his world has made her miserable. All he sees are her mistakes. He doesn't go after her when she decides she just can't fit into his world. This love wasn't meant to be. I don't care what the story says.
Reid can't live without Jenny and soon finds himself quitting the socialite scene, changing offices and living a more down to earth life so he can have the girl he loves. Eh. The whole thing is absurd.
This book was a disaster and I'm just thankful it was freebie. I'm resolved to not continue the series and I will be wary of this authors work in the future.
May 15, 2014
I was really excited to see that this book was edited and made into a sweet edition. I've often wondered why authors don't do that because they could have more fans with more readers. I read that language and sexual scenes were removed. That said, there were still a few "spicier" moments that might leave a squeaky clean reader blushing. I would say it's technically clean for an adult.
Jennifer is quite the wild child. It remains a mystery why she chooses to throw herself out of airplanes, among other dangerous things, until later on in the book. Her reasons for thriving on danger and avoiding her parents make sense. She is a very stubborn woman and seems to act before thinking time and time again. My heart really went out to Jennifer. She has built up walls all around her and is hesitant to let them come down. She has to do something to protect herself and being wild and crazy helps.
Reid is also very stubborn and is determined to get his way in helping Jennifer. He is the type of guy who really wants to fix things and sometimes gets in over his head. He comes across as a stick-in-the-mud type of guy, yet he really is tender-hearted and caring under all that gruff. He assumes too much and does what he feels is his duty to help and protect Jennifer, even if it might not be the right thing to do.
It was easy to see why there was an attraction there between them--they are complete opposites. Although they are both adults, they still have many life lessons to learn and I enjoyed the journey that they took. It is a cute story.
Content: no language or violence; a lot of innuendo, talk of wild behavior (skinny dipping, skimpy clothes, strip club, etc), mention of a relationship that's a little creepy, and some sizzling kisses that stayed clean; technically clean for an adult reader.
*I received a copy in exchange for an honest review.*
Jennifer is quite the wild child. It remains a mystery why she chooses to throw herself out of airplanes, among other dangerous things, until later on in the book. Her reasons for thriving on danger and avoiding her parents make sense. She is a very stubborn woman and seems to act before thinking time and time again. My heart really went out to Jennifer. She has built up walls all around her and is hesitant to let them come down. She has to do something to protect herself and being wild and crazy helps.
Reid is also very stubborn and is determined to get his way in helping Jennifer. He is the type of guy who really wants to fix things and sometimes gets in over his head. He comes across as a stick-in-the-mud type of guy, yet he really is tender-hearted and caring under all that gruff. He assumes too much and does what he feels is his duty to help and protect Jennifer, even if it might not be the right thing to do.
It was easy to see why there was an attraction there between them--they are complete opposites. Although they are both adults, they still have many life lessons to learn and I enjoyed the journey that they took. It is a cute story.
Content: no language or violence; a lot of innuendo, talk of wild behavior (skinny dipping, skimpy clothes, strip club, etc), mention of a relationship that's a little creepy, and some sizzling kisses that stayed clean; technically clean for an adult reader.
*I received a copy in exchange for an honest review.*
Want to read
April 29, 2014I've thought for a long time now, that it would be awesome if authors who write spicier books would release clean/sweet versions of the same book. Looks like this author decided to do just that! Can't wait to check this one out! And I hope more authors will catch on, great idea!
August 16, 2021
“MY LITTLE RUNAWAY”
Cast of Characters ~
The three sons of Richard Carrington, ~ wealthy attorney, and Martha Grover Carrington. ~
Reid Carrington ~ ambitious attorney determined to restore the reputation of his family after his father’s scandal almost ruined them.
Jennifer Thornton ~ grew up next door to the Carringtons, but left in order to save her parents from heartbreak. Reid brings her back to face a reality she’s not sure she can live with.
Matt Carrington ~ has been gone for years after a rift with his father sent him into undercover work in Los Angeles. He now owns hotels in Hawaii.
Grant Carrington ~ always a rebel, Grant went against his father’s plans for him and became a race car driver whose championship career is now in jeopardy.
A Few Others
Tag Carrington ~ their cousin, younger and more adrift, he lives mostly on his boat and avoids all risk of becoming a responsible adult.
Mickey Adams ~ owner and proprietor of Mickey’s on the Bay, a local café where the Carringtons tend to hang out. She’s in love with Tag but can’t admit it, even to herself.
Meggie Adams ~ Mickey’s adorable three year old.
Excerpt From
MY LITTLE RUNAWAY
Helen Conrad
This material may be protected by copyright.
Cast of Characters ~
The three sons of Richard Carrington, ~ wealthy attorney, and Martha Grover Carrington. ~
Reid Carrington ~ ambitious attorney determined to restore the reputation of his family after his father’s scandal almost ruined them.
Jennifer Thornton ~ grew up next door to the Carringtons, but left in order to save her parents from heartbreak. Reid brings her back to face a reality she’s not sure she can live with.
Matt Carrington ~ has been gone for years after a rift with his father sent him into undercover work in Los Angeles. He now owns hotels in Hawaii.
Grant Carrington ~ always a rebel, Grant went against his father’s plans for him and became a race car driver whose championship career is now in jeopardy.
A Few Others
Tag Carrington ~ their cousin, younger and more adrift, he lives mostly on his boat and avoids all risk of becoming a responsible adult.
Mickey Adams ~ owner and proprietor of Mickey’s on the Bay, a local café where the Carringtons tend to hang out. She’s in love with Tag but can’t admit it, even to herself.
Meggie Adams ~ Mickey’s adorable three year old.
Excerpt From
MY LITTLE RUNAWAY
Helen Conrad
This material may be protected by copyright.
November 1, 2024
I almost stopped reading this book and was considering deleting it from my library, actually, I am still contemplating whether I want to keep this book or not. I was genuinely surprised at reaching the last chapter without even realizing it, I guess that just proves what good editing and attention can accomplish.
I like Jenny, she clearly was realistic when came to who she was and what she was about but that brings to the downside of My Little Runaway. Jenny, it seemed was the only character in this, that was written in the third person, who was well thought out and written in a well-rounded way. Poor Reid, was written in such a vague way that I never figured out his true personality even when it was his thoughts being share. Made me think of a half-baked story that needed a bit more time.
My Little Runaway has an even amount of highs and lows making me think a 3 star rating is a fair rating.
This Review was originally posted here https://laurasbookbinge.wordpress.com...
I like Jenny, she clearly was realistic when came to who she was and what she was about but that brings to the downside of My Little Runaway. Jenny, it seemed was the only character in this, that was written in the third person, who was well thought out and written in a well-rounded way. Poor Reid, was written in such a vague way that I never figured out his true personality even when it was his thoughts being share. Made me think of a half-baked story that needed a bit more time.
My Little Runaway has an even amount of highs and lows making me think a 3 star rating is a fair rating.
This Review was originally posted here https://laurasbookbinge.wordpress.com...
November 26, 2017
She was the girl next door that had stolen his heart and runaway. Then a chance encounter, due to her name listed as v one of the sky divers , scheduled to jump out of the aeroplane, next. Can she live in the world of elitist country club socials? Because he definitely didn't fit in her world of weird characters and funky places.
A wonderful story of why some people just don't fit.
A wonderful story of why some people just don't fit.
November 14, 2017
Easy read.
Loved the twists and turns. I loved the characters. It all worked out in the end. I stayed awake to the end.
Loved the twists and turns. I loved the characters. It all worked out in the end. I stayed awake to the end.
books-boxed-sets
April 26, 2020In boxed set - "Destiny Bay Boxed Set Vol. 1"
May 18, 2014
3.5 stars
This is the first review of three I am participating in for this author. The main reason I signed on to do this tour was because this author has taken her romance books and done a little overhaul for those of us who love romance but love them without descriptive sex scenes. I love that Helen Conrad has heard the pleading cries of the “clean readers” and taken the time to change these books up a bit to fit another group of people. They are titled “Sweet Editions”. I think it’s cool and I wanted to promote that.
Run, Run, Runaway features Jennifer and Reid who go way, way back to when Jennifer was just a girl following Reid around like a puppy. They are both all grown up now but time has distanced them from each other. Jennifer is the runaway who is adamant that she will not return home to her parents. She has a secret that she is protecting and she is convinced that staying away is the best option. Jennifer has created a stable and good life for herself. She loves her job and she also loves “extreme” activities where she can lose herself on the edge.
Reid stumbles across Jennifer after she jumps out of an airplane. When he sees her, he just knows he has to find a way to get her to return home to her parents. Jennifer is a tough nut to crack. She has spent years running from the truth and pretending she doesn’t care that she is separated from her parents. Reid was her first crush and her first love. Seeing him again brings back all kinds of memories and feelings.
Jennifer proves to be a bit impulsive throughout the book. Her actions don’t always speak the best of her but her heart is good. She is trying fiercely to protect her family from the things she thinks will hurt them. She is willing to sacrifice what she loves for that protection.
Reid seems to have lost himself over the course of the years due to circumstances out of his control. He’s become what he said he didn’t want to be. He is a fixer by nature though and thus his desire to fix Jennifer too. He is well meaning but sort of goes about it the wrong way.
I liked the interactions between Jennifer and Reid. You feel the history and connection between them. There were times the story seemed a bit rough around the edges and the flow felt interrupted, I would imagine due to the “clean up” process. But, in the end, the story was sweet and this girl got the happily ever after than she loves.
This is the first review of three I am participating in for this author. The main reason I signed on to do this tour was because this author has taken her romance books and done a little overhaul for those of us who love romance but love them without descriptive sex scenes. I love that Helen Conrad has heard the pleading cries of the “clean readers” and taken the time to change these books up a bit to fit another group of people. They are titled “Sweet Editions”. I think it’s cool and I wanted to promote that.
Run, Run, Runaway features Jennifer and Reid who go way, way back to when Jennifer was just a girl following Reid around like a puppy. They are both all grown up now but time has distanced them from each other. Jennifer is the runaway who is adamant that she will not return home to her parents. She has a secret that she is protecting and she is convinced that staying away is the best option. Jennifer has created a stable and good life for herself. She loves her job and she also loves “extreme” activities where she can lose herself on the edge.
Reid stumbles across Jennifer after she jumps out of an airplane. When he sees her, he just knows he has to find a way to get her to return home to her parents. Jennifer is a tough nut to crack. She has spent years running from the truth and pretending she doesn’t care that she is separated from her parents. Reid was her first crush and her first love. Seeing him again brings back all kinds of memories and feelings.
Jennifer proves to be a bit impulsive throughout the book. Her actions don’t always speak the best of her but her heart is good. She is trying fiercely to protect her family from the things she thinks will hurt them. She is willing to sacrifice what she loves for that protection.
Reid seems to have lost himself over the course of the years due to circumstances out of his control. He’s become what he said he didn’t want to be. He is a fixer by nature though and thus his desire to fix Jennifer too. He is well meaning but sort of goes about it the wrong way.
I liked the interactions between Jennifer and Reid. You feel the history and connection between them. There were times the story seemed a bit rough around the edges and the flow felt interrupted, I would imagine due to the “clean up” process. But, in the end, the story was sweet and this girl got the happily ever after than she loves.
May 16, 2014
I received Run Run Runaway in return for an honest review as part of the tour hosted by Prism Book Tours. Jennifer ran away from home long ago with a deep dark secret she kept from everyone. She hasn’t seen or spoken to her parents or anyone from her past since she left and doesn’t plan to change anytime in the near future. When the one man from her past she hasn’t forgotten happens to get lucky and finds her he refuses to give up determined to bring her home to her parents. The only thing is Reid doesn’t know why she ran away just that he needs to bring her home to see her parents.
Why Jennifer can’t deny the attraction for Reid that has been there since she was a girl she also sense that he may have feelings for her. Every chance she things something might happen he pushes her away. While Jennifer debates seeing her parents she happens to confront her father but instead of happy to see her he tells her his wishes she had never come home. Reid knowing her mother would want to see her brings her back yet again. Only this time Jennifer is determined to prove to Reid she can be the wife he wants even if it means changing who she is and confronting her past.
Jennifer is one of those characters your heart goes out to, her life hasn’t been easy but she’s made the best of it. She’s one of those girls who lives on the edge but also works hard to get what she wants even if it is for a man she’s loved most of her life. I liked Reid for Jennifer right from the start he’s like the reserve guy with his life together who can rein in Jennifer. He’s also a good guy you can’t help falling for.
I’m a sucker for a clean romance she when I saw the tour for the Destiny Bay romances I knew I had to sign up right away. Run Run Runaway is the first installment in the series it’s about Jennifer and Reid’s we get to see each characters point of view which I enjoyed. The author has created a captivating clean romance that captures the heart as well as the imagination. The book is a quick read that I finished in one afternoon it was hard to put down I had to see how Jennifer’s story would play out. I love a good clean romance that has a great story that is well written that teens as well as adults will enjoy. This is my first book by the author but I’m excited to read the next installment in the Destiny Bay Series. I highly suggest if you’re looking for quick clean romance that you check out the Destiny Bay series.
Why Jennifer can’t deny the attraction for Reid that has been there since she was a girl she also sense that he may have feelings for her. Every chance she things something might happen he pushes her away. While Jennifer debates seeing her parents she happens to confront her father but instead of happy to see her he tells her his wishes she had never come home. Reid knowing her mother would want to see her brings her back yet again. Only this time Jennifer is determined to prove to Reid she can be the wife he wants even if it means changing who she is and confronting her past.
Jennifer is one of those characters your heart goes out to, her life hasn’t been easy but she’s made the best of it. She’s one of those girls who lives on the edge but also works hard to get what she wants even if it is for a man she’s loved most of her life. I liked Reid for Jennifer right from the start he’s like the reserve guy with his life together who can rein in Jennifer. He’s also a good guy you can’t help falling for.
I’m a sucker for a clean romance she when I saw the tour for the Destiny Bay romances I knew I had to sign up right away. Run Run Runaway is the first installment in the series it’s about Jennifer and Reid’s we get to see each characters point of view which I enjoyed. The author has created a captivating clean romance that captures the heart as well as the imagination. The book is a quick read that I finished in one afternoon it was hard to put down I had to see how Jennifer’s story would play out. I love a good clean romance that has a great story that is well written that teens as well as adults will enjoy. This is my first book by the author but I’m excited to read the next installment in the Destiny Bay Series. I highly suggest if you’re looking for quick clean romance that you check out the Destiny Bay series.
May 17, 2014
3.5 stars
Review originally posted on i blog 4 books: http://iblog4books.blogspot.com/2014/...
I'm a true fan of romance novels, and I was intrigued to hear that Helen Conrad was re-writing some of her previous novels to appeal more to an audience who appreciates a "clean" romance. Run Run Runaway is a fun romance that reads much like a soap opera. Lots of romance, family drama, and inter-connected characters. And I really enjoyed it! It took me a little while to figure out both Reid and Jennifer, but the author did a great job of revealing their character bit by bit throughout the story. I also enjoyed the beach town where the book was set. It was fun to imagine what it would be like to live in a beach community.
I did feel that there was a bit of "head hopping" throughout the book. It confused me at first, but I was able to look past it once I really got into the book. I also felt that the shift in Reid and Jennifer's friendship was a bit abrupt. I wish it would have followed the pacing of the rest of the book a bit more.
However, overall, this was a fun read! I'm looking forward to getting to know the Carrington family better in the rest of this series. [3.5 stars]
I received a free copy of this book from the author via Prism Book Tours in exchange for my fair and honest review.
Review originally posted on i blog 4 books: http://iblog4books.blogspot.com/2014/...
I'm a true fan of romance novels, and I was intrigued to hear that Helen Conrad was re-writing some of her previous novels to appeal more to an audience who appreciates a "clean" romance. Run Run Runaway is a fun romance that reads much like a soap opera. Lots of romance, family drama, and inter-connected characters. And I really enjoyed it! It took me a little while to figure out both Reid and Jennifer, but the author did a great job of revealing their character bit by bit throughout the story. I also enjoyed the beach town where the book was set. It was fun to imagine what it would be like to live in a beach community.
I did feel that there was a bit of "head hopping" throughout the book. It confused me at first, but I was able to look past it once I really got into the book. I also felt that the shift in Reid and Jennifer's friendship was a bit abrupt. I wish it would have followed the pacing of the rest of the book a bit more.
However, overall, this was a fun read! I'm looking forward to getting to know the Carrington family better in the rest of this series. [3.5 stars]
I received a free copy of this book from the author via Prism Book Tours in exchange for my fair and honest review.
October 27, 2014
As a whole this book is your typical mindless, light romance read. One reason why this book did not do it well with me is that this book is geared more to those readers that values social standing and appearances.
I like the idea of the book and I really get the heroine's reason for staying away. If I was in her shoes I would do exactly as she did. My thing is that the reason for her coming together with the male main character is that he said "I'm taking you back home," and she said "No way in hell would I go back!" or to that effect. The next paragraph, they are on the road to 'home' and she's having fun on the drive after her token pout that she was FORCED into the trip. HUH!? No the male character did not pick her up and dump her on the car, he just said let's go and she went.
Where is the forced in that?!
A lot of forced actions of the same lameness followed throughout the book as the h tried to fit into the male character's social world. I have to say that this book was well written, it's just that the glue that hold the character together was so brittle and eye-roll worthy that it's hard for me to care.
Why did I kept reading? I kept hoping the h will find her own home and the token resolution at the end was so generic. I've seen it happen in a lot of books that it's not a surprise at all.
I like the idea of the book and I really get the heroine's reason for staying away. If I was in her shoes I would do exactly as she did. My thing is that the reason for her coming together with the male main character is that he said "I'm taking you back home," and she said "No way in hell would I go back!" or to that effect. The next paragraph, they are on the road to 'home' and she's having fun on the drive after her token pout that she was FORCED into the trip. HUH!? No the male character did not pick her up and dump her on the car, he just said let's go and she went.
Where is the forced in that?!
A lot of forced actions of the same lameness followed throughout the book as the h tried to fit into the male character's social world. I have to say that this book was well written, it's just that the glue that hold the character together was so brittle and eye-roll worthy that it's hard for me to care.
Why did I kept reading? I kept hoping the h will find her own home and the token resolution at the end was so generic. I've seen it happen in a lot of books that it's not a surprise at all.
July 30, 2014
The Carrington family was one of the prominent families of Destiny Bay. The Thornton family lived right next door. The two fathers became lifelong friends as well as having some business dealings. The oldest Carrington son, Reid, was several years older than Jennifer Thornton but she spent every waking moment following Reid around and being in love with him.
Jennifer rebels as a teenager and after a family fight that leaves Jennifer feeling she is a constant disappointment, she runs away. At least seven years go by and we find Jennifer running a business but still not conforming; skydiving, white water rafting, climbing snow covered mountains, and anything else that can make her heart race.
Reid is back home as a young, up-and-coming lawyer bringing praise to the family name. What happens when the two friends meet again? Will these two very different lives be able to mesh into one? I loved the first book. I was shocked to learn what the family fight was really about. I found it very admirable for Jennifer to undeservedly shoulder the blame in order to avoid upsetting her family. Can't wait to read more from this newly discovered author (at least new to me).
April 17, 2014
Clean romantic story with an HEA ending
Jennifer had run away from home several years ago and started a new life when Reid, an old friend/love interest, runs into her at the landing zone area where Jennifer lands after parachuting. He demands she go home with him to visit her parents. Jennifer and Reid get closer as Jennifer tries to rebuild a relationship with her parents. Can Jennifer become the person that her parents wanted her to be and the person she thinks Reid wants her to be?
This book is very a nice clean romance. Apparently this is a rewrite to make it a "sweet" version. I have not had the pleasure of reading the original, but it feels like that maybe in the author's desire to put out a sweet version of this romantic tale, that she left a little something out. I was having trouble feeling the romance between our H and h. Having said that, I still enjoyed this story very much. It moves along at a nice pace, the storyline is good and it's very well edited.
This book is part of a series, but it is a stand-alone story with a wonderful HEA ending.
Jennifer had run away from home several years ago and started a new life when Reid, an old friend/love interest, runs into her at the landing zone area where Jennifer lands after parachuting. He demands she go home with him to visit her parents. Jennifer and Reid get closer as Jennifer tries to rebuild a relationship with her parents. Can Jennifer become the person that her parents wanted her to be and the person she thinks Reid wants her to be?
This book is very a nice clean romance. Apparently this is a rewrite to make it a "sweet" version. I have not had the pleasure of reading the original, but it feels like that maybe in the author's desire to put out a sweet version of this romantic tale, that she left a little something out. I was having trouble feeling the romance between our H and h. Having said that, I still enjoyed this story very much. It moves along at a nice pace, the storyline is good and it's very well edited.
This book is part of a series, but it is a stand-alone story with a wonderful HEA ending.
May 22, 2014
This is the first book I've read from this author but I loved it. The chemistry between the character were real and the things the Jenny went through growing up was normal for most of us adolescent girls. It's always nice to real a romance about everyday people and not just billionaires with their playthings, so to speak.
Jenny has been in love with her neighbor Reid all her life and could never get to maintain his attention. Reid always had a thing for his much younger shadow much couldn't do much due to the age difference and his mannerisms. After running away she became a very strong young woman that was afraid to love and rather did anything to avoid the subject. Once they meet again sparks fly and the author really has her way with the characters.
Best phrase in the book, "When are you going to grow up?" Reid constantly said this to Jenny and I think it was his was of praying she would hurry and grow up so that he can properly date her. I enjoyed this book and I would read more from H. Conrad soon.
Jenny has been in love with her neighbor Reid all her life and could never get to maintain his attention. Reid always had a thing for his much younger shadow much couldn't do much due to the age difference and his mannerisms. After running away she became a very strong young woman that was afraid to love and rather did anything to avoid the subject. Once they meet again sparks fly and the author really has her way with the characters.
Best phrase in the book, "When are you going to grow up?" Reid constantly said this to Jenny and I think it was his was of praying she would hurry and grow up so that he can properly date her. I enjoyed this book and I would read more from H. Conrad soon.
May 18, 2014
It 's a novel sweet, soft and clean, talks about love, friendship and family.
Jennifer, a young girl adopted, leaving her family and her city of origin to be able to live as she wants and does not like her parents would like. After a few years accidentally meets Reid, a friend of her brother and the boy she was in love with as a teenager. He wants to bring her home because the parents need her but she does not want. Can he convince her?
Jennifer is a stubborn and rebellious girl but works hard to get what he wants. Reid is also very stubborn and is a very generous guy, fight hard to make others feel good: first save the ailing father and now wants to help the parents of Jennifer.
It 's a story very well written, moving and engaging, it said in a few hours.
A reading really pleasant and relaxing
Jennifer, a young girl adopted, leaving her family and her city of origin to be able to live as she wants and does not like her parents would like. After a few years accidentally meets Reid, a friend of her brother and the boy she was in love with as a teenager. He wants to bring her home because the parents need her but she does not want. Can he convince her?
Jennifer is a stubborn and rebellious girl but works hard to get what he wants. Reid is also very stubborn and is a very generous guy, fight hard to make others feel good: first save the ailing father and now wants to help the parents of Jennifer.
It 's a story very well written, moving and engaging, it said in a few hours.
A reading really pleasant and relaxing
January 17, 2017
It seemed like a good idea at the time. The trouble is, when you run from your problems, you often find out your biggest obstacle is along for the trip--it's you! Reid Carrington realizes that when he finds Jennifer and recognizes the quiet desperation in her eyes. Can he save someone who doesn't want to be saved? Or like a lifeguard rescuing a swimmer, will she pull him down into the undertow in the end?
Despite her father's anger, and disregard for Jenny, she tried again to stop running from her problems. A cute little story with a happy ending, even though it took alot to get there. 5 stars.
Despite her father's anger, and disregard for Jenny, she tried again to stop running from her problems. A cute little story with a happy ending, even though it took alot to get there. 5 stars.
April 19, 2014
Sweet Romance
I read this book and six hours. That how good it was I could not put it down.
I know I've stated this before on another review but I don't tend to tell my secret that I cry but this book brought me to tears towards the end. I just wish that the parents got along with the daughter in the end as much as she wanted them to. I know the mother and daughter became better friends but I was hoping the father would've came and accepted her for who she was and not stayed angry with her.
I can't wait to read the next book in the series.
Happy reading!
I read this book and six hours. That how good it was I could not put it down.
I know I've stated this before on another review but I don't tend to tell my secret that I cry but this book brought me to tears towards the end. I just wish that the parents got along with the daughter in the end as much as she wanted them to. I know the mother and daughter became better friends but I was hoping the father would've came and accepted her for who she was and not stayed angry with her.
I can't wait to read the next book in the series.
Happy reading!
May 12, 2014
This is the first Book in a.series by Helen Conrad of course I had to download all the other books.. I loved this book the story of Jenny and Reid the book was oh so sad in places.. oh so HOT in others.. sprung a few surprises.. but I would love to live in Destiny bay I feel as if I know all the characters personally.. I look forward to reading the rest of the series.. if you would like to know Jenny and Reid's story download the book.. I detest spoilers so will not give story away.. suffice to say the book was AWESOME This book deserves it's 5 stars
July 29, 2014
I really enjoyed this book. I got it as a three book set with the next two in the series. I thought the characters were great and the story was very sweet. I enjoyed the fact that Reid and Jennifer had both loved each other from a far when they were younger. When they finally got together I enjoyed it even more! I loved how real their relationship seemed. It didn't feel like the author struggled to make it authentic at all. I could easily picture these people in this same situation in the real world and that's the real test of a good book in my opinion.
March 30, 2014
This is the 1st book I read by Helen Conrad. I felt sorry for Jenny. I thought Jenny was brave for facing the reasons why she ran away. I didn't like Reid so much, I thought he was to pushy & judgmental. I just wish I could have felt a connection with these characters as the reader of this book. I also wish this story had more a romantic feel to it.
April 30, 2014
This was my second book by this author. I really liked Husband Wanted - Will Train and gave it it 5 stars. This wasn't as good. Reid was a controlling bully. It was an ok read. I'll try another book by the author. I'm hoping this one was just a fluke.
August 6, 2014
Cute book. I'm sooo glad it was edited so I had the chance to read it. I do wish the editing would have been a rewrite so things would have flowed better. But I liked the book. Reid was weird to me. He seemed way too snotty!
July 14, 2014
A little slow at first, with a hero that makes you want to choke the life out of him, this boook finally picked up speed. Overall, I liked it. Well written, and characters who are more realisitic. Definitely worht a look.
April 24, 2016
Once I got into the story and the characters got developed a bit I enjoyed it.
This story didn't end as expected neither one fit where they were and until they separated they didn't know what they needed or wanted.
This story didn't end as expected neither one fit where they were and until they separated they didn't know what they needed or wanted.
March 30, 2014
Couldn't finish. The main character is an unlikable jerk, the woman at first is an ok character until she completely changes for him. Stupid. Stupid. Stupid.
January 6, 2014
Is a great book to read
April 17, 2014
Believable!
Good story line. Characters we believable. I thought it was a god story and an easy read. Love happy ending s.
Good story line. Characters we believable. I thought it was a god story and an easy read. Love happy ending s.
May 30, 2014
Storyline was good, characters well-developed. An easy read with a romance made difficult by typical communication gaps.
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