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Moving Forward

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Six years ago a monster broke Ava Monroe's soul. She was left with nothing but an empty house and no reason to live. In starting a new life in a new city she finds the strength to carry on, but can she ever erase the demons of her past?

When an act of fate brings Seth into her life, they'll attempt to discover the truth about their tainted pasts. But Seth Carter has a secret; one even he doesn't know exists.

Will Ava's connection with Seth be enough to lift her up, or will it destroy what little she has left?

**WARNING: This book contains mature content**

164 pages, Kindle Edition

First published January 1, 2014

19 people are currently reading
557 people want to read

About the author

Emily R. Pearson

7 books78 followers
I suppose you want to hear about how Emily enjoys long walks on the beach, a nice glass of wine, and wants a man with... Oh wait. This isn't her dating profile. *Ahem* I will start again. When Emily isn't nose deep in her latest and greatest writing adventure or in over her head with her spitfire daughter; you'll find her emerged in the latest book to catch her eye. She doesn't judge, she reads it all and hungers for more. She has been declared a Pinterest queen by some, and is one of the few people you'll ever meet to actually pull off those easy looking recipes; the ones that the rest of us burn. She'd love to hear from you so feel free to hit her up on www.match *nevermind....you'll find the links below!

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5 stars
96 (48%)
4 stars
47 (23%)
3 stars
37 (18%)
2 stars
11 (5%)
1 star
8 (4%)
Displaying 1 - 30 of 53 reviews
Profile Image for Emily Pearson.
Author 7 books78 followers
February 11, 2014
It is my book after all ;)

Check out the cover! Revealed 2/10/2014
♥ Thank you all for the support.
Profile Image for Angela Ruble Scott.
419 reviews7 followers
March 26, 2014
This is my 5 snowflake review for Moving Forward by Emily Pearson for Eskimo Princess Review Blog.

Moving Forward is about Ava Monroe and her attempt to move forward from the demon that haunts her past and threatens her future. Ava is a beautiful young woman but she has been through hell. She doesn’t see what she is worth or the beauty that surrounds her. When she meets Seth he brings out a calmness in her that she never expected. Seth is an Assistant District Attorney. He is HOT, romantic, and so soft and tender. He really is an overall great guy. What will happen when someone from Ava’s past refuses to stay in the past? Will Seth be able to break down all those broken walls Ava has built up around her heart?

This was a pretty short read for me but man did it pack a punch. I can say that it really had me on the edge of my seat at times. I also found myself chanting “no, no, no don’t do it” more than once. The sex scenes were played out nicely, not too much and not too little. There were a couple grammar errors but not enough to take away from the story. As for the plot, well I will just tell you to read this one for yourself because it is one that you wouldn’t want too much given away.

If you are looking for a romantic suspense novel with equal amounts romance and edge of your seat suspense then this one is for you! I will definitely be stalking the author’s Facebook page to see if there is more to Ava and Seth’s journey!
Profile Image for The Literary Vixen.
611 reviews22 followers
March 14, 2014
I was gifted this book from the author

Ava has been through hell and back. No one should have to go through what she went through. Ava lost everything and is completely broken. She decides to start a new life in Florida with her best friend Carissa. The have a nice little business and things are good. Ava isn't looking for love or happiness so when Seth comes into her life she is confused and guarded. Her past has made her untrusting and unworthy of happiness. Seth is charming, handsome, and caring. He tries to reassure her that he wants her and her past doesn't scare him. Just when Ava finally lets her guard down and accepts this new found happiness with Seth, a series of events has her wanting to run scared. Has her past finally found her?

I started reading this book and was surprised by all the emotions I felt. I read the description on what this book was about and was expecting the same story that's already out there but was pleasantly surprised at how much it wasn't. I felt everything Ava was feeling and going through. I couldn't put this book down. I needed to know what was next! This is a great read and I'm hoping there is a second book!
Profile Image for Desirae (Dee).
1,074 reviews59 followers
March 19, 2014
3.5 star review

talk about a roller coaster! good god! im not gonna lie, when Dawson came to town I kinda figured out the link...but it still surprised me. I really like the progress Ava made in this book, the reliance and strength she found to fight. my heart dropped when she revealed the rest of the story of what happened to her. how did she live through that? Then when you find out the link with Seth, omg! how does she handle all this?? how does she not break? I seriously dont know! I really liked thr balance of thriller and love in this book. everytime she wanted to give up I wanted to smack her. I was like Ava you just found Seth dont gice up! james is seriously messed up. his thought process , his past, childhood, obsession, everything. just pure crazy. like scary crazy. I really like this book. but holy cliffhanger batman!!!
Profile Image for Claudia Bradshaw.
Author 2 books32 followers
March 22, 2014
Moving Forward grabbed me from the beginning and took me on a crazy ride. I'm not going to give any spoilers here because you need to experience the twists and turns for yourself. I'm usually good at guessing plots but this one kept me guessing until the end. I felt very connected to the characters, enough to yell at my computer when certain things happened or if they made decisions that put them in danger. Ava had some terrible things happen in her past but she impressed me with the way she handled the events in the book. Seth made my heart skip a beat more than once.

I'd recommend this book to anyone who is looking for a great story about overcoming your past.
Profile Image for Eye Candy Bookstore.
571 reviews123 followers
June 6, 2014
Well, what a book! I was gripped from the start. Ava seemed broken by her past, but she still remained strong. Throughout the book her tragic past comes to light but lucky for her after a unwanted night out with her best friend, Ava meets the very charming and hot Seth Carter. Seth sweeps her off her feet. He can sweep me off my feet any day. Their connection is strong and grows instantly, it's sweet and loving. They both fall hard and fast. He always puts her feelings before his own.

Ava's past comes back to haunt her with a ten ton truck, I wasn't expecting the turn in the story and to be honest, it was a really good, gripping turn. I simply couldn't put the book down, my poor house needed cleaning but oh well ;)

I loved how fiercely loving and loyal Seth was with Ava. Made my heart swell.

I thought that Carissa and Dawson were amazing supporting characters that made this book a beautiful story of love, friendship and loyalty

Reviewed by Amy
Eye Candy Bookstore (Manager)
Profile Image for Deb.
1,095 reviews
April 19, 2014
What a pleasant surprise!! ... I had no knowledge of this author or any other reviews, so I went in with an open mind... Not only is this a great romance story, but very suspenseful with twists & turns that keep you guessing :) ... Once I got going, I didn't want to put it down, but unfortunately had to or I would have been done even sooner... This is a 5 star must read for anyone who loves contemporary romantic suspense & I promise you won't be sorry! ... I can't wait for the next book & hopefully it will continue where this one left off! ... I was fortunate to have this given to me by the author in exchange for an honest review :)
Profile Image for Kathy Rice.
214 reviews1 follower
March 9, 2014
I was very blessed to get to read this book before it goes public. Emily you did a terrific job!
The storyline and characters are realistic. I felt so many emotions while reading Moving Forward; anger, hate, fear, love, compassion and a need for revenge. All for Ava! I felt myself being pulled into the story and wanting to help give her strength when she felt defeated and I really wanted to help her kick someone's ass.
Emily Pearson is a new and upcoming Author, with the love and passion it takes to make it to the best sellers list one day!!! Don't miss out, Moving Forwad!
12 reviews4 followers
June 20, 2014
All I can say about this book is WOW!!
Ava has had a rough life and has started a new life with her best friend, far away from where her life was almost destroyed. Ava meets Seth and the chemistry between them is amazing. Ava thinks that maybe, finally she can move on with her life when her past catches up to her. This is an amazing story that will keep you intrigued from start to finish and leave you wanting more. I cannot wait to read more from this awesome author!
Profile Image for Tianna.
Author 1 book33 followers
Want to read
March 8, 2014
This sounds like it's going to be intense!! I love intense!!
description
Profile Image for JG.
1,075 reviews68 followers
March 17, 2014
Complimentary copy received from the author.

4.5 of 5 stars!!!!

I'm always on the look out for new authors and that all elusive read that will blow you away and for me "Moving Forward" was that book.

I really didn't know what to expect from this novel. The cover screamed contemporary romance so I started reading it with few expectations assuming it would be a sweet story that would be enjoyable and easy to read but Moving Forward was fully of emotion, personal horrors and suspense.

It starts out with an introduction to the two main female characters: Ava and Cassie. Both girls are starting afresh in a new area but you soon come to realise that it's because of Ava's troubled background that they have found themselves in a new city.

It is on a night out that Ava meets Seth Carter and despite her initial reservations about dating and relationships the two soon realise that they can't fight the feelings they have for one another.

I was nervous. My mind told me to run and never look back, but every inch of my body screamed for his touch. An internal battle raged inside of me and I had to decide if this was something I wanted.


The sweet romance story ends at this point and the dark side starts as Ava's past returns and she must decide what she can do to protect those she cares about most.

I know I'm lost. I know I'm broken beyond repair and I know that I shouldn't feel this way. I know deep down there's something more to this crazy life for me, I just can't see it yet. I have my good days and I have my bad just like anyone else.


The story has lots of twists and turns as Ava's shocking and horrific past is brought back into her present day life with totally unexpected connections.

I found this a compelling read and I couldn't put the book down and I would wholeheartedly recommend it to anyone who likes their romantic suspense.

Although this appears to be a standalone book it does end on a cliffhanger or at least a totally unexpected conclusion to the story but there is a HEA, or is there!

Reviewed on behalf of Jezabell Girl & Friends....

http://jezabellgirlandfriends.weebly.com
http://facebook.com/jezabellgirlandfr...

Profile Image for Dottie.
76 reviews16 followers
May 15, 2014
I need about a week to recover from this emotional roller-coaster. This book is drama from the start.
Ava, the main character has had a tough life. She has gone through things that no one ever should be put through. So, needless to say Ava is a wreck. The book starts off with Ava and her best friend/roommate Carissa living in Florida working at a shop they own together. It is clear from the start something bad is on the Horizon.

Ava & Carissa decide it's time for some fun, so they go out so they can find it. While out having fun Ava meets Seth. Seth is a lawyer, sweet, cute & pretty much perfect. Well Ava and Seth fall for each other fast and hard. Their relationship is sweet and romantic. I think it happened really fast and I was a little confused. But I really liked Seth, he seemed perfect. Their good times did not last long though, trouble was ready to strike on their first real date.

This is where the drama goes into overdrive for me. We find out a little more about the kind of evil that Ava has gone through. We know she ran to Florida with her best friend so she can escape her demons. Right? Well somehow Ava seems to find the closest connection possible to her past.

Ava's past eventually collides with her present and we all learn her horrifying tale. We learn why she is so scared all the time...
This is why I gave it a 3 star rating. It was so predictable!! It had no thrill to it. I feel like the author could have really taken this book to the next level. The way that everything played out was so easy to see coming.
I am no a fan of huge cliff hangers, and this one is BIG.

**Reviewed for Two Ordinary Girls and their books**
Profile Image for Two Ordinary.
201 reviews28 followers
April 1, 2014
4 ****

We need about a week to recover from this emotional roller-coaster.

This book is drama from the start.

Ava, the main character has had a tough life. She has gone through things that no one ever should be put through. So, needless to say Ava is a wreck.

The book starts off with Ava and her best friend/roommate Carissa living in Florida working at a shop they own together. It is clear from the start something bad is on the Horizon. Ava & Carissa decide it's time for some much needed fun, so they go out so they can find it.

While out, Ava meets Seth. Seth is a lawyer, sweet, cute & pretty much perfect. Ava and Seth fall for each other fast and hard. Their relationship is sweet and romantic.

We think it happened really fast and was a little confused. But we really liked Seth, he seemed perfect. Their good times did not last long though, trouble was ready to strike on their first real date.



This is where the drama goes into overdrive for us. We find out a little more about the kind of evil that Ava has gone through. We know she ran to Florida with her best friend so she can escape her demons. Right? Well somehow Ava seems to find the closest connection possible to her past. Ava's past eventually collides with her present and we all learn her horrifying tale.

We learn why she is so scared all the time...

This is why we gave it a 4 star rating. it was fantastically written, worded and so much emotion in to one book BUT It was so predictable!! we felt like the author could have really taken this book to the next level.

The way that everything played out was so easy to see coming.

Huge cliffhanger!!!!!!
Profile Image for Kelly Mccurdy.
899 reviews38 followers
November 29, 2014
~~I was provided a Beta copy in exchange for my honest opinion~~
There is only two other books that I have read multiple times, this being one of them. Emily grabs on to you at the very beginning and she doesn't let go, not even at the end of the book. She still has you holding on for dear life! This is Emily's first book that she has written, but you can't tell by the way she writes. She writes like she has been writing for years.

~~Synopsis~~
Six years ago a monster broke Ava Monroe's soul. She was left with nothing but an empty house and no reason to live. In starting a new life in a new city she finds the strength to carry on, but can she ever erase the demons of her past? When an act of fate brings Seth into her life, they'll attempt to discover the truth about their tainted pasts. But Seth Carter has a secret; one even he doesn't know exists. Will Ava's connection with Seth be enough to lift her up, or will it destroy what little she has left?

~~My thoughts~~
This is an awesome book! I couldn't put it down, even the second time that I read it, I read it cover to cover in one night. There are edge of your seat moments, and moments that you're thinking, why? Emily covers everything that needs to be covered for a great book! She is an awesome author and a great story teller. You need to pick this book up!! If you don't you will miss out!
Profile Image for Elizabeth Collins.
Author 1 book3 followers
March 14, 2014
Ava has been through hell and even after six years she's barely living a normal life, and she definitely has no interest in going out or dating. Her best friend, Clarissa, knows what happened, but she doesn't know everything. Ava has never been able to talk about that night, not even to Clarissa. One night Clarissa finally gets Ava to go out, let loose, and have some fun. It's that night when she happens to meet Seth. Of course he's amazing, and before long she's falling for him. Ava finally feels like she can start letting go of her past and move forward with Seth. But her past isn't ready to let go of her just yet, and she might end up having to trade her life to save the people she loves.

Ava is great! I mean... she's kind of a mess, but she's trying and she's stronger than even she knows. Seth was what she needed to nudge her forward and into actually living her life, and I love how she blossoms with him and really comes into herself again.

Seth is amazing, and I really feel like they bring out the best in each other. I also love how he takes care of her, but doesn't treat her like a child like a lot of book guys do. He gets tons of bonus points for that!

But this isn't just a love story, just when things are looking up their world comes crashing down. How they handle it together is... well...
<3 <3 <3

And the end. I won't give that away, but it will have you biting your nails waiting to see if Ava will get rid of her past once and for all.
192 reviews12 followers
August 12, 2016
Moving Forward is Emily Pearson's debut novel and what an amazing story she has to tell!

The story is about Ava and her best friend starting over after the horrific death of Ava's parent's-in a new place, where they can escape Ava's past. The first half of the story is a sweet romance between Ava and Seth, love at first sight-two broken people that heal each other with their love. I actually thought that's where the story would lead, and then the twist of not only Ava's past but Seth's as well catching up to them....In a deadly way. This is where not only James the brother you love to hate comes into the picture bringing Ava's nightmares to life, but also Dawson the police officer most affected by Ava's past. I loved the way the author brought in each character, it allowed for each one to be fully developed and made the story very real.

This is an fantastic Suspense/Romance novel and the ending was written as a cliff hanger that makes it clear that Seth and Ava's story is far from over.
Profile Image for My Secret Book Spot.
662 reviews23 followers
July 14, 2014
Moving Forward by Emily R Pearson
4 of 5 stars

Ava and Clarissa are enjoying life in their beach town. They run a consignment shop during the day and Clarissa parties at night. One night she finally convinces Ava to join her and they go out on the town.

Ava meets Seth and they quickly develop feelings for each other. Their relationship is developing but Ava has secrets in her past. Her stalker returns after 6 years of silence, but has he really been watching her this whole time unbeknownst to her?

What connection does her stalker have to Seth and his family? How far is Ava willing to go to keep those she cares about safe?

I liked this book. It moved quickly, it had romance, action, suspense. I did figure out the connection early on but I enjoyed it anyway. I do not like cliffhangers, but that would be my only dislike.

I would recommend this book and plan on reading the next one.

*A complimentary copy was received in exchange for an honest review*

Susan, My Secret Book Spot
Profile Image for Joood Hooligan.
518 reviews34 followers
March 21, 2014
I was given this book in exchange for an honest review.

First of all, I would like to state that this was very impressive for this author's first published story. I had a hard time putting it down, because I found myself absorbed in the story.

That being said, it has a lot of issues with its editing and needs a lot of work, both with content and grammar. In many cases the story was so interesting that I almost didn't notice them, but there were enough that they still stood out despite that.

The characters were, for the most part, realistic and helped keep me drawn into the story as I read. Again, there were content issues - mostly where the author would contradict herself - so it would put me off.

All and all, I did enjoy this story and I would like to read more from her. I do highly suggest to invest in a good editor, because this story has a lot of potential.

http://www.platypire.com/3/post/2014/...
Profile Image for Erin.
63 reviews2 followers
March 9, 2014
What can I say?? I loved it!!! Ava's journey was inspiring and heartbreaking all at the same time. Seth was absolutely her knight in shining armor through it all, even when their lives became intertwined in ways no one would ever imagine. I was on the edge of my seat wondering what the big secret was, often wondering out loud "what happened to Ava???". I was so not disappointed on that front either!! Ava grows from a weak depressed recluse into a strong amazing woman right before your eyes and the transformation is awe inspiring at times. I can honestly say I couldn't do some of the things she does!! I don't want to say too much and give it all away, but I will say READ THIS BOOK!!! You will not be disappointed!!!
Profile Image for Kimerin's Confessions of a Bibliophile.
108 reviews4 followers
March 9, 2014
What can I say?? I loved it!!! Ava's journey was inspiring and heartbreaking all at the same time. Seth was absolutely her knight in shining armor through it all, even when their lives became intertwined in ways no one would ever imagine. I was on the edge of my seat wondering what the big secret was, often wondering out loud "what happened to Ava???". I was so not disappointed on that front either!! Ava grows from a weak depressed recluse into a strong amazing woman right before your eyes and the transformation is awe inspiring at times. I can honestly say I couldn't do some of the things she does!! I don't want to say too much and give it all away, but I will say READ THIS BOOK!!! You will not be disappointed!!!
Profile Image for Stormy Udell.
37 reviews1 follower
May 31, 2014
Fan-Freaking-tastic!!!! Emily did a fantastic job of reeling you in to this roller coaster of a ride. Every up and down pulled at your emotions and made your stomach drop at just the right points. Reading as Ava rediscovered herself while falling madly for Seth (who could blame her I mean *swoon*) was heartbreaking and heartwarming. To be able to experience so many different emotions during their journey was incredible. Everyone should pick this up, you won't regret it!
Profile Image for Andrea Pearson.
4 reviews1 follower
March 28, 2014
My sister is a very talented writer and I couldn't be more proud of her! I am not the biggest reader and I am far from a "Romance/suspense" reader but I truly couldn't put this book down! What a great story line that makes you want to keep reading. I can't wait to see what is in store for Ava and Seth next! I completely recommend anyone to pick up this book and give it a read! Its an easy yet riveting read that you wont want to put down and definitely wont want to miss out on!
57 reviews3 followers
June 1, 2014
This is a good reads win. Let me start off by giving my thanks to the Author for the book. I found the book intriguing to say the least. It was hard to put down. I did find it a bit repetitive in spots, but that's ok. It had some twists, and those are always welcome. Nice to read a mysterious book, and not be able to figure it out a third of the way through! I read this book in one 24 hour period, because I just had to find out what the next twist was! Oh my!
Profile Image for TSStechAngel.
362 reviews20 followers
May 9, 2014
Pearson had me reading from the first word to the last one. I could not put this one down and almost read it in one sitting if I didn't have to sleep last night. Fantastic first book and she is quite the writer. If you're looking for something different to read, or just want something new to try, give this one a read!
Profile Image for Becky.
81 reviews
April 11, 2014
I am very impressed with this book and how it was written. It catches you and the suspense of the book keeps you going. Ended up finishing this book in just a day and a half. Can't wait to read another book by Emily Pearson.
Profile Image for Nikki Costello ***Crazy Cajun Book Addicts Blog***.
2,077 reviews55 followers
March 13, 2014
Wow!!! I loved this book it was emotional, heartbeaking and had twists and turns at every corner that had me gripped to the edge of my seat until the very last page. Would definitely recommend this book.
Profile Image for April Hayes.
1 review
March 20, 2014
Omg this book is amazing I has so many emotions reading it... I cried, laughed and got frustrated the twists are amazing just when I thought I figured out what was going on I was completely off base and I love that about this book!!!!! I totally cant wait to read more books from Emily :)
34 reviews
April 29, 2014
I read this book from our monthly book club and I'm so glad I did. I was caught up fast in the details and I never saw the ending coming. Very well written and I could easily adapt to the characters (they were believable) and I'm not so patiently waiting for the next one. I want more of my Seth!
Profile Image for Kaitie.
36 reviews2 followers
March 7, 2014
I could not put this book down! I spent the entire day reading it. You will be on the edge of your chair from beginning to end. Simply amazing.
1 review
March 11, 2014
This book is amazing. It will keep you hanging on the edge of your seat. you will not be able to put it down. the author truly makes you feel like your right there with them!!
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