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Hawaiian Crush #3
Sunset Sky
While Henry accepts Sydney’s love for Coen, he’s still heartbroken over the loss. If he had just said how he felt to begin with, things could have been different. Now it’s a regret he’ll always have.
His home life isn’t perfect either. His sister is lost in her depression, and his brother drowns himself in alcohol. Henry has to stay strong for everyone else. But deep inside, he’s falling apart.
Until Ren…
Deemed a tomboy by her four brothers, Ren is sexy, cool, and smart. As soon as Henry sets eyes on her, he feels a strong attraction to her. The longer they spend time together, the more Henry falls for her. But there’s one problem. Sydney is still in his heart.
Can he move on and pursue a relationship when he feels this way? Will he ever get over Sydney? Will Henry find the happily ever after he deserves?
His home life isn’t perfect either. His sister is lost in her depression, and his brother drowns himself in alcohol. Henry has to stay strong for everyone else. But deep inside, he’s falling apart.
Until Ren…
Deemed a tomboy by her four brothers, Ren is sexy, cool, and smart. As soon as Henry sets eyes on her, he feels a strong attraction to her. The longer they spend time together, the more Henry falls for her. But there’s one problem. Sydney is still in his heart.
Can he move on and pursue a relationship when he feels this way? Will he ever get over Sydney? Will Henry find the happily ever after he deserves?
350 pages, Kindle Edition
First published January 29, 2014
64 people are currently reading
259 people want to read
About the author
E.L. Todd
216 books2,730 followersUSA Today Bestselling Author, E. L. Todd is one of the most prolific authors of her genre, having published over a hundred novels. With over one million copies sold, she writes romance stories ranging from contemporary romance, new adult romance, and fantasy romance. She's best known for her Forever and Always Series as well as her Timeless Series.
She loves coffee, ice cream, and anything with sugar.
She loves coffee, ice cream, and anything with sugar.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 30 reviews
September 2, 2016
“I didn’t realize how fucked up we both were until we found each other.”
Most men tend to say what they think not what they feel. It’s difficult for them to acknowledge their emotions and express them. Henry is not most men, and in Connected by the Tide we read about his story and are first hand witnesses to his distress and coping mechanisms regarding his unrequited love towards Sydney.
In his attempt to heal his broken heart, he meets the attractive and easy going Ren (Renee) whose openness allows Henry to be honest and communicative about himself, his heartache and even going as far as to tell her about his family, which he hadn’t been willing to tell Sydney about. Their relationship morphs from unhurried to passionate pretty quickly but they also reach a level of profoundness that leads to mutual trust, shared healing and love.
There were a couple of times I wanted to slap some sense into Ren for her lack of communication but luckily Henry did it for me, go Henry!
I enjoyed reading the introductions to family and the recurring friend scenes, the sexy-hot moments between Henry and Ren, and the bonus Sydney+Coen scene at the end. But I think what I liked the most, second to the main story, were those references to the penguins, they were just too funny.
”You should be more scared of the penguins. Everyone thinks they are the cutest things in the world, but those birds are assholes.”
So if you’re curious about them, Henry and Ren that is not just the penguins, and are looking for a sexy and sweet (swexy? Still working that term) romance, be aware that this is not a standalone book and is better enjoyed and appreciated after reading the previous books in the series.
May 20, 2015
Finally it's over!
I had to struggle to finish this one. I got bored somewhere in the middle of the story. These guys are not my style. They are weak, crying all the time. For God 's sake, be a man! I don't think I cried in all my life as much as these two (Coen & Henry) did.
I need a strong, dominant man to spoil me rotten. Not a softie that cries more than an average woman watching soap operas.
I had to struggle to finish this one. I got bored somewhere in the middle of the story. These guys are not my style. They are weak, crying all the time. For God 's sake, be a man! I don't think I cried in all my life as much as these two (Coen & Henry) did.
I need a strong, dominant man to spoil me rotten. Not a softie that cries more than an average woman watching soap operas.
February 22, 2024
Lazy storytelling
Actual rating rounded up from 1.5/5
I wonder if the requirement for romance novels now is simply to include as much sexual activity as possible and neglect the storytelling as a result. This book began with Henry picking up the broken members of his family following their father's death. However, once he met Ren, the writer completely abandoned this storyline altogether, and Henry's family wasn't mentioned again for a long time.
In the beginning, Henry is ashamed of his family because of their behaviour (brother alcohol/drug addictions and mother severe depression). However, when they are revisited later in the book when he talks of taking his girlfriend to meet them he gushes about how wonderful they are and that they're going to love her because they're so fabulous! There's brief mention of their troubles saying the dinner wasn't burnt and mum had showered but no mention of how they got to this point. Henry clearly hasn't been involved in the transformation, though, as his little sister comments that he abandoned them. Similarly, with the older brother, Bryce, he transforms from loner drunk dabbling in drugs to model protective big brother with no explanation.
And, yet again, there is the audacity of referring to Sydney as "weak" for being a victim of childhood sexual abuse and domestic violence made my skin crawl! It's disrespectful, victim blaming, and completely wrong!
Actual rating rounded up from 1.5/5
I wonder if the requirement for romance novels now is simply to include as much sexual activity as possible and neglect the storytelling as a result. This book began with Henry picking up the broken members of his family following their father's death. However, once he met Ren, the writer completely abandoned this storyline altogether, and Henry's family wasn't mentioned again for a long time.
In the beginning, Henry is ashamed of his family because of their behaviour (brother alcohol/drug addictions and mother severe depression). However, when they are revisited later in the book when he talks of taking his girlfriend to meet them he gushes about how wonderful they are and that they're going to love her because they're so fabulous! There's brief mention of their troubles saying the dinner wasn't burnt and mum had showered but no mention of how they got to this point. Henry clearly hasn't been involved in the transformation, though, as his little sister comments that he abandoned them. Similarly, with the older brother, Bryce, he transforms from loner drunk dabbling in drugs to model protective big brother with no explanation.
And, yet again, there is the audacity of referring to Sydney as "weak" for being a victim of childhood sexual abuse and domestic violence made my skin crawl! It's disrespectful, victim blaming, and completely wrong!
February 10, 2014
First, let me say that this was a good book. I was conflicted with the characters at different times in the book. There were times I just wanted someone to slap Henry and tell him to be a man. All the whining about waiting too long to tell Sydney his feelings...I just thought, even if he had told her before Coen came along the outcome would have been the same. I LOVED that he was attracted to Ren, but wasn't ready to pursue her. It is very common in books...and in life, where we are dealt heartache and choose destructive habits to try to fill the void. Wether it's sleeping around, which is what Ren did....or burying your problems in alcohol (Henry's brother)....or some other default, it is a very human attribute. So I loved that he was level headed enough to want to get through his heartache before dragging someone else in it. So what does sweet Henry do? He tells Ren the truth. When Ren decides to take what she can get...again I was conflicted. At first I was like WTF? No one does that...and then I thought about it, and yeah, actually this happens a lot in real life too. Sometimes a girl's self confidence is so low, that when she likes someone...she is willing to take whatever that person offers. Ren had her heart stomped on, and was treated pretty badly by several different guys, so at some point she accepted that something was wrong with her.
So, Ren and Henry come together as two broken people. But that moment....when Henry refuses to be just another jerk that treats her like she's second best. That's the moment I fell for Henry...as did Ren. Henry showed her what it was like to be cherished and adored. In return, she gave Henry patience, and a glimpse of life beyond Sydney. As time went by these two broken people started to become whole.
Several times, Henry states that he has no feelings for Sydney anymore, and I know many readers will have a hard time with that...but for me, it was so true to life. Sometimes you think that you love someone so much, that you would not be able to go on if that person weren't by your side. But then, the unimaginable happens and that person isn't by your side. Shockingly enough, we do go on. Yes, it hurts, it's tragic, because not only is the person gone, but all your hopes and dreams of the future are shattered as well. But then one day, you meet someone, and little by little you give them a piece of your heart until they have all of it, and that first person...well you may still care about them, but you just don't have the same feelings for them. You can look back, and love them and want them to be happy because you have found someone that completes you more than that other person ever could. So I completely connected with Henry and understood how his feelings had changed. He found Ren...he found his person.
This was a very good book. Yes, there were times that I wanted slap a couple of people in it...but that just makes it better. It's nice being able to be frustrated with a character and watch their progression. Another really good book from EL Todd.
So, Ren and Henry come together as two broken people. But that moment....when Henry refuses to be just another jerk that treats her like she's second best. That's the moment I fell for Henry...as did Ren. Henry showed her what it was like to be cherished and adored. In return, she gave Henry patience, and a glimpse of life beyond Sydney. As time went by these two broken people started to become whole.
Several times, Henry states that he has no feelings for Sydney anymore, and I know many readers will have a hard time with that...but for me, it was so true to life. Sometimes you think that you love someone so much, that you would not be able to go on if that person weren't by your side. But then, the unimaginable happens and that person isn't by your side. Shockingly enough, we do go on. Yes, it hurts, it's tragic, because not only is the person gone, but all your hopes and dreams of the future are shattered as well. But then one day, you meet someone, and little by little you give them a piece of your heart until they have all of it, and that first person...well you may still care about them, but you just don't have the same feelings for them. You can look back, and love them and want them to be happy because you have found someone that completes you more than that other person ever could. So I completely connected with Henry and understood how his feelings had changed. He found Ren...he found his person.
This was a very good book. Yes, there were times that I wanted slap a couple of people in it...but that just makes it better. It's nice being able to be frustrated with a character and watch their progression. Another really good book from EL Todd.
February 3, 2014
I admit... I had a huge crush on Henry in the first two books in the Hawaiian Crush series and I fell for him even more in this book.
At the beginning of this book, Henry is depressed and heartbroken over Sydney and does his best to avoid seeing her and taking her calls. He goes so far as to even change his major from Zoology to English.
In his first class of the new semester, a girl next to him lets him know he's using the wrong textbook and offers to share hers with him for that class. She does the same for the very next class they end up having together. He notices that she's pretty and nice but he tries to avoid any friendly conversation as he's still trying to get over Sydney.
The girl - Ren - engages him in conversation whenever she sees him. He begins to respond in kind and looks forward to their encounters. They become friends, but his heart still aches for his unrequited love for Sydney.
He confides in Ren like he never did with Sydney and spending time with Ren helps him begin to heal.
Meanwhile, Sydney is still trying to see him and talk to him and just isn't leaving him alone. For her, he is family and she loves and misses him. Henry goes to Coen when he knows Sydney won't be home and explains himself to Coen and asks Coen to talk to Sydney for him.
Meanwhile he continues to keep Ren at bay. She tries to get him to come see her at her workplace, but he's hesitant. When his and Sydney's mutual friends meet up with him for lunch and Ren's in the next booth, she manages to give him the tickets to her workplace that she wanted to before.
At the luau (Ren's workplace), Nancy and Derek both tell him that it's obvious Ren is into him. Ren confronts him after work and he is honest with her, he won't go out with her because he doesn't want to hurt her because he's in love with someone else and needs to get over that person. Ren likes his honesty and tells him so and their friendship blossoms even more.
This is just the beginning of their story... I don't want to tell you anymore because it would be way too much spoilerage, but Ren comes with her own baggage and there are a few miscommunications and one big blowout that nearly causes to ruin something awesome.
You'll meet two of Ren's four brothers and her ex - Dane, and her father as well. You'll find out Ren's history as well and it blends well into this story and makes me root for her and Henry even more.
I will warn you, this isn't for the 18 and under crowd. It has lots of sex in it. I think there's more in this book then in the first two Hawaiian Crush books.
Should you read the first two books in the series first though? I definitely would as they set up for this third quite nicely.
This is one of my favorite books over the past few months and it's all because of Henry. I got to watch him go through heartbreak, family drama, and falling in love and it was an emotional, awesome ride.
At the beginning of this book, Henry is depressed and heartbroken over Sydney and does his best to avoid seeing her and taking her calls. He goes so far as to even change his major from Zoology to English.
In his first class of the new semester, a girl next to him lets him know he's using the wrong textbook and offers to share hers with him for that class. She does the same for the very next class they end up having together. He notices that she's pretty and nice but he tries to avoid any friendly conversation as he's still trying to get over Sydney.
The girl - Ren - engages him in conversation whenever she sees him. He begins to respond in kind and looks forward to their encounters. They become friends, but his heart still aches for his unrequited love for Sydney.
He confides in Ren like he never did with Sydney and spending time with Ren helps him begin to heal.
Meanwhile, Sydney is still trying to see him and talk to him and just isn't leaving him alone. For her, he is family and she loves and misses him. Henry goes to Coen when he knows Sydney won't be home and explains himself to Coen and asks Coen to talk to Sydney for him.
Meanwhile he continues to keep Ren at bay. She tries to get him to come see her at her workplace, but he's hesitant. When his and Sydney's mutual friends meet up with him for lunch and Ren's in the next booth, she manages to give him the tickets to her workplace that she wanted to before.
At the luau (Ren's workplace), Nancy and Derek both tell him that it's obvious Ren is into him. Ren confronts him after work and he is honest with her, he won't go out with her because he doesn't want to hurt her because he's in love with someone else and needs to get over that person. Ren likes his honesty and tells him so and their friendship blossoms even more.
This is just the beginning of their story... I don't want to tell you anymore because it would be way too much spoilerage, but Ren comes with her own baggage and there are a few miscommunications and one big blowout that nearly causes to ruin something awesome.
You'll meet two of Ren's four brothers and her ex - Dane, and her father as well. You'll find out Ren's history as well and it blends well into this story and makes me root for her and Henry even more.
I will warn you, this isn't for the 18 and under crowd. It has lots of sex in it. I think there's more in this book then in the first two Hawaiian Crush books.
Should you read the first two books in the series first though? I definitely would as they set up for this third quite nicely.
This is one of my favorite books over the past few months and it's all because of Henry. I got to watch him go through heartbreak, family drama, and falling in love and it was an emotional, awesome ride.
June 2, 2014
How does a college student go on when his best friend chooses another man over him? Henry is devastated when Sydney and Coen announce their plans to marry, he plummets into a world of despair and depression, going so far as to change his major to avoid seeing them together. What he did not expect to find was a second chance at happiness in the shape of the beautiful Ren, a force to be reckoned with, strong, yet caring, smart and just as drawn to Henry as he is to her. Will his ghosts haunt him and scare away the woman who has changed his life? Will his family’s problems keep piling up until he breaks?
When Ren’s brother is brutally beaten, in a hate crime, it’s Henry who comes to his rescue. It’s Henry who confronts Ren’s father and shames him into supporting his amazing family. So why is it that a man with so much to give, who is the pinnacle of caring cannot keep a woman by his side? Will misunderstandings and lack of communication keep Ren and Henry apart?
E. L.Todd has taken a New Adult Contemporary Romance and given it a few twists that make it a touch different from the crowd. Although riddled with angst, it isn’t coming from a broken hearted female, its coming from Henry. Ren is like a breath of fresh air, with her independent and spirited attitude. The friendships and loyalties from the other characters truly make this romance a winner in my book, without their help, Henry was incapable of dealing with his own problems! (And this from a guy who is right there for everyone else!) Ms. Todd creates beautiful scenes to savor, until you can smell the ocean breezes and feel the sand on your feet while breathing life into each of her characters with ease. A wonderful addition to this series!
Series: Hawaiian Crush - Book 3
Publication Date: January 29, 2014
Publisher: E. L. Todd
ISBN: 1495359506
Genre: NA Contemporary Romance
Print Length: 350 pages
Available from: Amazon | Barnes & Noble
When Ren’s brother is brutally beaten, in a hate crime, it’s Henry who comes to his rescue. It’s Henry who confronts Ren’s father and shames him into supporting his amazing family. So why is it that a man with so much to give, who is the pinnacle of caring cannot keep a woman by his side? Will misunderstandings and lack of communication keep Ren and Henry apart?
E. L.Todd has taken a New Adult Contemporary Romance and given it a few twists that make it a touch different from the crowd. Although riddled with angst, it isn’t coming from a broken hearted female, its coming from Henry. Ren is like a breath of fresh air, with her independent and spirited attitude. The friendships and loyalties from the other characters truly make this romance a winner in my book, without their help, Henry was incapable of dealing with his own problems! (And this from a guy who is right there for everyone else!) Ms. Todd creates beautiful scenes to savor, until you can smell the ocean breezes and feel the sand on your feet while breathing life into each of her characters with ease. A wonderful addition to this series!
Series: Hawaiian Crush - Book 3
Publication Date: January 29, 2014
Publisher: E. L. Todd
ISBN: 1495359506
Genre: NA Contemporary Romance
Print Length: 350 pages
Available from: Amazon | Barnes & Noble
March 19, 2014
The book focuses on Henry, but the whole gang is still in the picture and supports this characters story throughout the book.
It starts out so sad and my heart just break for Henry and his feelings for Sydney. The author captures every emotion bring the reader back to a point in their lives when they once felt the way Henry did. I just wanted to hug him and be his friend to help him get through this emotional time.
Then we have Ren, a girl in Henry's class that is drawn to him instantly. I give this girl credit that she was willing to wait while Henry worked through his feelings for Sydney. HOWEVER, I also respect Henry so much as a man for being honest with Red and telling her he would not have sex with her until he was over his other feelings. And he adhered to that promise. The chemistry and balance between these two characters were great and in sync. I really like that aspect of them and the book. The only word that comes to mind when it comes to their sexual chemistry and encounters is dirty. Not that what they did was dirty, but I have to say this was the first book that I have read that covered relationship foreplay. Most books go from characters liking each other to getting down and dirty, this book however progressed as a relationship would and the little things couples do as the relationships progresses in each stage.
There were several sub stories that went on through the book as well. You have Nancy and Derek's relationship, the soon-to-be-marriage of Coen and Sydney, and the family's of both Ren & Henry. I love Ren's family and how that progressed, but the conclusion of what happened with Andre was rushed more than I liked. Andre's story is one that needs to be told and hopefully the author will write about him one day. As for Henry's family, there was a little more light shed, but that was not completed as well. Knowing this author Bryce's story is planned in the future.
This author is unique in her writing in that you feel at the end of a story you were missing some conclusions, but she never disappoints and you get what happens in the next book as she ensures every character is developed in just the right progression. She doesn't just tell a story she completes one.
It starts out so sad and my heart just break for Henry and his feelings for Sydney. The author captures every emotion bring the reader back to a point in their lives when they once felt the way Henry did. I just wanted to hug him and be his friend to help him get through this emotional time.
Then we have Ren, a girl in Henry's class that is drawn to him instantly. I give this girl credit that she was willing to wait while Henry worked through his feelings for Sydney. HOWEVER, I also respect Henry so much as a man for being honest with Red and telling her he would not have sex with her until he was over his other feelings. And he adhered to that promise. The chemistry and balance between these two characters were great and in sync. I really like that aspect of them and the book. The only word that comes to mind when it comes to their sexual chemistry and encounters is dirty. Not that what they did was dirty, but I have to say this was the first book that I have read that covered relationship foreplay. Most books go from characters liking each other to getting down and dirty, this book however progressed as a relationship would and the little things couples do as the relationships progresses in each stage.
There were several sub stories that went on through the book as well. You have Nancy and Derek's relationship, the soon-to-be-marriage of Coen and Sydney, and the family's of both Ren & Henry. I love Ren's family and how that progressed, but the conclusion of what happened with Andre was rushed more than I liked. Andre's story is one that needs to be told and hopefully the author will write about him one day. As for Henry's family, there was a little more light shed, but that was not completed as well. Knowing this author Bryce's story is planned in the future.
This author is unique in her writing in that you feel at the end of a story you were missing some conclusions, but she never disappoints and you get what happens in the next book as she ensures every character is developed in just the right progression. She doesn't just tell a story she completes one.
February 17, 2014
I had the wonderful opportunity to read this book, book 3 of the Hawaiian Crush Series. As we all probably wanted, this is a book about Henry. Yes, the best friend of Sydney and also the guy who was rejected. ☹ Thankfully, E.L. decided to give our nice and wonderful Henry a book. A great book at that.
In this book, Henry is still heart broken and cannot get rid of his feelings for Sydney. Cue the quest to get rid of it. Henry finally does things he wants to do instead of following Sydney around, which leads him to meeting Ren.
Ren is a sweet girl who a guy would be lucky to have. Of course, she has her past and has her ego and self esteem pretty bruised even if she is a great girl which was really sad. It was even more heartbreaking when she risks her heart for love.
This was such a romantic book that tells people you can move on from your past and someday meet the One, which was great cause there aren't enough books on that anymore. It is usually just see this guy/ girl, fall in love, a misunderstanding, make up, live HEA. This sort of gives you a break from all that because it isn't so easy to love in this book. Its nice since I think it has more of a sense of reality that many people could probably relate to.
I love E.L.'s books and this is definitely not a disappointment. May be a bit long yet again, but it was definitely worth it. I absolutely love it and I am sure I won't be the only one so go ahead and pick up/ download this book. It's worth it.
Last of all, I would just like to thank E.L again for giving me an ARC of this amazing book.
**An ARC was given in exchange for an honest review**
In this book, Henry is still heart broken and cannot get rid of his feelings for Sydney. Cue the quest to get rid of it. Henry finally does things he wants to do instead of following Sydney around, which leads him to meeting Ren.
Ren is a sweet girl who a guy would be lucky to have. Of course, she has her past and has her ego and self esteem pretty bruised even if she is a great girl which was really sad. It was even more heartbreaking when she risks her heart for love.
This was such a romantic book that tells people you can move on from your past and someday meet the One, which was great cause there aren't enough books on that anymore. It is usually just see this guy/ girl, fall in love, a misunderstanding, make up, live HEA. This sort of gives you a break from all that because it isn't so easy to love in this book. Its nice since I think it has more of a sense of reality that many people could probably relate to.
I love E.L.'s books and this is definitely not a disappointment. May be a bit long yet again, but it was definitely worth it. I absolutely love it and I am sure I won't be the only one so go ahead and pick up/ download this book. It's worth it.
Last of all, I would just like to thank E.L again for giving me an ARC of this amazing book.
**An ARC was given in exchange for an honest review**
February 5, 2014
Book 3 in the Hawaiian Crush series follows Henry, who we met in book 1. I wasn't a fan of Henry's during Syd & Coen's story, and yet I couldn't help but feel bad for him. Sydney really does put him through an emotional wringer, unintentional tho it is. In the first two books, we're inside both Coen & Sydney's heads, we see their stories from their perspectives. This one is strictly Henry's story, about his working through his feelings for Sydney, coming to grips with NOT being in love with her, becoming friends w/ Coen, and most importantly, falling in love with HIS ever after. In an attempt to distance himself from Sydney to get over her, he changes his major from zoology to English, and he meets Renee in his first class. She intrigues him right away with her sweet willingness to share.
Henry & Ren's story once again sucked me in, even when circumstances were difficult to read. They both have been cut deeply, but through a policy of (and I love this) HONESTY, they heal each other and gain a connection that goes beyond what either has had before. They're both family ppl, and their families play a big part in their stories.
Very enjoyable story, kept my interest thoughout, and as a BONUS - we get to see more of Syd & Coen! : )
The only drawback for me, really, was the fact that we didn't get to see things from Ren's perspective. I would have liked to have gotten to know her more outside of Henry's thoughts of her.
(I received a copy of the story from the author w/ the request for an honest review.)
Henry & Ren's story once again sucked me in, even when circumstances were difficult to read. They both have been cut deeply, but through a policy of (and I love this) HONESTY, they heal each other and gain a connection that goes beyond what either has had before. They're both family ppl, and their families play a big part in their stories.
Very enjoyable story, kept my interest thoughout, and as a BONUS - we get to see more of Syd & Coen! : )
The only drawback for me, really, was the fact that we didn't get to see things from Ren's perspective. I would have liked to have gotten to know her more outside of Henry's thoughts of her.
(I received a copy of the story from the author w/ the request for an honest review.)
February 14, 2014
Once again i'd like to thank Ms. Todd for entrusting this book in exchange for an honest review.
Connected by the Tide is the story of Henry, who's the best friend of Sydney in Connected by the Sea, and Renee. This book basically tells us the struggle of Henry to get over his love for Sydney and move on to Ren and also their fight to stay together. Ren has somewhat thrown herself to Henry but he has this "over" gentlemanly ways of not being intimate with her unless he's completely forgotten Sydney. Which I think is very noble and very rare for guys. I got so frustrated with Henry for this but i also admired his consistency and he really stands for what he believes is right. Ren on the other hand is a passionate and loving woman who's also been through a lot in her past relationships. Together, they found the missing pieces that only each other can fill. The last part is so romantic! Coen and Sydney finally tied the knot! I was holding my breath before it happened. Whew! Good thing it ended well. And Coen...aww i have this thing for guys who cries during their own wedding..*sigh*..i always love Sydney and Coen!
All in all the book was ok for me. Ms. Todd's writing is still impeccable, telling her stories in a third person. Although i must say that it's quite lengthy on the part that Henry's trying to move on from Sydney. I was slightly bored. But the book picked up towards the half and onwards. The last quarter has what got me excited. And oh it has a bonus scene from Sydney and Coen! I love it.
Connected by the Tide is the story of Henry, who's the best friend of Sydney in Connected by the Sea, and Renee. This book basically tells us the struggle of Henry to get over his love for Sydney and move on to Ren and also their fight to stay together. Ren has somewhat thrown herself to Henry but he has this "over" gentlemanly ways of not being intimate with her unless he's completely forgotten Sydney. Which I think is very noble and very rare for guys. I got so frustrated with Henry for this but i also admired his consistency and he really stands for what he believes is right. Ren on the other hand is a passionate and loving woman who's also been through a lot in her past relationships. Together, they found the missing pieces that only each other can fill. The last part is so romantic! Coen and Sydney finally tied the knot! I was holding my breath before it happened. Whew! Good thing it ended well. And Coen...aww i have this thing for guys who cries during their own wedding..*sigh*..i always love Sydney and Coen!
All in all the book was ok for me. Ms. Todd's writing is still impeccable, telling her stories in a third person. Although i must say that it's quite lengthy on the part that Henry's trying to move on from Sydney. I was slightly bored. But the book picked up towards the half and onwards. The last quarter has what got me excited. And oh it has a bonus scene from Sydney and Coen! I love it.
February 10, 2014
Well friends, here we are on book number three of the "Hawaiian Series." This one is about Henry and Ren. What can I tell you this just get better with each book. I was totally blown away with the first two books and could not see where it could get any better but Ms. Todd has stepped up and brought in another winner. Henry as we left him in book two was completely torn apart when Sydney fell in love with Coen and did not know how he would ever get over her. He had spent all that time loving her and her only. She made his world go around but when he found out how much she loved Coen and how much Coen loved her he could not stand in their way. He decides to change his major to English and the Gods all smile on him. First day in class he meets Ren! Wow, what a beauty. Well from here things get real good and then take a nose dive, Henry is left standing alone. Now here is where I don't want to spoil anything for you but I am here to tell you that this is the best book so far. Just so you’re prepared though I will tell you that we do get to be at Sydney and Coen's wedding which almost did not happen. You just have to continue on with us and find out what happens. Again the tears will flow, anger will pop, laughter will bubble up, happiness will abound, and orgasms will build and flow. Ms. Todd knows how to put a book together and tell a story that will grab your heart strings and put you right in the story. This time I even felt the heat of the Hawaiian sun. So grab your reader and download your copy and join the rest of us in the continuing story.
February 5, 2014
This book is Henry's story. We first met Henry in Connected by the Sea and continued in Breaking Through the Waves. He has been in love with Sydney all of this time but when she chose Coen, it devastated him. In this book, he finally decides to change his major to English instead of Zoology, so he can distance himself from Sydney. In his first class, he meets Ren. And this is where the rollercoaster ride begins. As Henry finally realizes he just loves Sydney as a friend, he starts to fall in love with Renee(Ren). We get the highs and lows and the twists and turns of a healing heart, a beginning love, the building of trusts and some darn hot panty melting sex scenes. Henry introduces Ren to his family and he gets to meet Ren's family and we get to see all of the struggles both of these families are going through. There are few times during this story that had misunderstandings and it broke my heart to see them in so much pain. E.L. Todd did a fantastic job of bringing us through all of these trying times of love and hurt and bring us to a happy ending for Henry and Ren. Of course we get to have more of Coen and Sydney and see their HEA come about in this book too. I was very pleased when I was given a copy of this story for an honest review. I didn't want to stop reading it once I started, it was just so good!! So yeah, I loved it. I can't wait to read the rest of this series, I just love all of these characters and how they interact with each other.
February 8, 2014
***received an arc in exchange for an honest review***
I was excited to read this book after reading the first in the series Connected By The Sea. I was interested in reading Henry's story after being introduced to his character in Sydney's story. I was slightly disappointed to say the least. There were so many scenes that had me scratching my head in confusion. The idea that Henry was so in love with Sydney that he thought his life was over because she rejected him to fall completely and madly in love with Renee so quickly and profess more then once that he had no feelings what so ever for Sydney seemed a little far fetched to me. The fact the he was honest with Renee and told her about his feelings for someone else and her be okay with it and want to be with him anyway didn't seem
Plausible...I kept thinking in my head what woman would do that. Some of the sex scenes had me skimming...especially the masterbation ones. I didn't understand why Henry would feel like a pervert for being attracted to someone other then Sydney. I can understand him struggling with it because of his feelings, having feelings for two people at the same time but to feel like a pervert because of that was a little odd to me. The lovey dovey behavior was a little over the top for me and I have read my share of all different types of love stories. I was sorry that this book was a disappointment, I had expected more after reading book 1....
I was excited to read this book after reading the first in the series Connected By The Sea. I was interested in reading Henry's story after being introduced to his character in Sydney's story. I was slightly disappointed to say the least. There were so many scenes that had me scratching my head in confusion. The idea that Henry was so in love with Sydney that he thought his life was over because she rejected him to fall completely and madly in love with Renee so quickly and profess more then once that he had no feelings what so ever for Sydney seemed a little far fetched to me. The fact the he was honest with Renee and told her about his feelings for someone else and her be okay with it and want to be with him anyway didn't seem
Plausible...I kept thinking in my head what woman would do that. Some of the sex scenes had me skimming...especially the masterbation ones. I didn't understand why Henry would feel like a pervert for being attracted to someone other then Sydney. I can understand him struggling with it because of his feelings, having feelings for two people at the same time but to feel like a pervert because of that was a little odd to me. The lovey dovey behavior was a little over the top for me and I have read my share of all different types of love stories. I was sorry that this book was a disappointment, I had expected more after reading book 1....
August 10, 2016
Mending his broken heart is an endless battle when Henry has to see Sydney and Coen together everyday. He's madly in love with her, he fantasizes about her and being rejected by the one that had always been his best friend has him barely surviving. So his only way out is to cut all ties. Counting on her fiancé for help, he changes majors, his schedule and avoids her at all costs. Then he meets Renee. She is beautiful and for the first time his mind is occupied with thoughts of someone else. But how do you move on when your heart is so broken that you can hardly breathe? Re has had her share of jerks, but she can see that Henry is different. He is honest and doesn't play games. She liked him right away and could see herself falling for him, but will he ever be hers? Henry and Re's story is full of heartbreak and passion. A relationship based on honesty and lust that evolves into so much more. As the world rights itself around Sydney and Henry, everything else follows suit. Family isn't always made of blood, but of bonds of love and friendship. Revisiting with Henry, Sydney, Coen, Nancy, and meeting more of E. L. Todd's characters made this novel even better. Plus the bonus scene at the end is a sweet treat ;)
February 7, 2014
I was given a copy of this book from the Author in exchange for my honest opinion.
Connected by the tide is the third book in the Hawaiian crush series. In the first two books We met Henry, Sydney and Coen, Henry and Sydney were best friends and he was in love with her but Sydney was in love with Coen. In this book Henry tries to get over his feelings for Sydney. Henry thinks the best thing for him to do is stay away from her so he changes his major from zoology to English. On his first day of classes he meets Renée (Ren). They became instant friends and Henry was totally honest with her upfront about his feelings for Sydney.
In this book we find out about Henry's family and how he interacts with them we also find out about Renée's family which involves A hate crime towards one of her brothers. I enjoyed the story and the roller coaster ride that we were on with Henry's emotions, I would've like to hear some more of Renée's point of view but overall I enjoyed the story.
I am looking forward to reading the next book about Nancy.
Connected by the tide is the third book in the Hawaiian crush series. In the first two books We met Henry, Sydney and Coen, Henry and Sydney were best friends and he was in love with her but Sydney was in love with Coen. In this book Henry tries to get over his feelings for Sydney. Henry thinks the best thing for him to do is stay away from her so he changes his major from zoology to English. On his first day of classes he meets Renée (Ren). They became instant friends and Henry was totally honest with her upfront about his feelings for Sydney.
In this book we find out about Henry's family and how he interacts with them we also find out about Renée's family which involves A hate crime towards one of her brothers. I enjoyed the story and the roller coaster ride that we were on with Henry's emotions, I would've like to hear some more of Renée's point of view but overall I enjoyed the story.
I am looking forward to reading the next book about Nancy.
February 11, 2014
I missed book 2, but CBTT was awesome. I am so happy that Henry was able to come out of his funk over Sydney. Yes, he loved her, but I don't believe he loved her as much as he really thought he did. He found his true soul mate in Renee'. Naturally, he and Ren had their ups and downs as well. E. L. Todd never disappoints. The writing is always beautiful. You can feel the anguish that Henry feels for both trying to stop loving Sydney and keeping his family together. Then he tells Ren from the beginning that he has the feeling for Sydney and she tells him that she is willing to wait for him. She believes he is worth the wait. The love between them builds on a mutual affection and trust that neither felt before. Ren has always been just another girl. Aside from loving Sydney, Henry has never even had a girlfriend, just one night stands. But will helping Sydney out one too many times cause all the trust end it all? I can’t wait to read Book 4, even if I did miss #2. I love these books.
February 2, 2014
4.5 stars!
I love Henry! I already really liked him in the last two books! I am so glad he ended up finding his HEA. However, once again I felt like their relationship went from very mild to intense in like a chapter or two (or also how the family issues fell into place for both Ren and Henry)! But it was a lot more progressive than the start of Coen and Syd's relationship (I loved the Bonus scene with them at the end of this book, I really did miss the seahorse couple ;) )! Ha, but emotions are well intense in this book, E L Todd you sure give the reader a wild ride! Such a steamy book as well... Oh and the breakup was just such a heart wrenching experience for me! I felt Henry's pain and frustration! Finally, the setting of the book just became real for me! Thank E L Todd, I enjoyed my Hawaiian excursion! I look forwards to reading the rest of your Hawaiian series! I recommend this book for anyone looking for a steamy read in Hawaii!
I love Henry! I already really liked him in the last two books! I am so glad he ended up finding his HEA. However, once again I felt like their relationship went from very mild to intense in like a chapter or two (or also how the family issues fell into place for both Ren and Henry)! But it was a lot more progressive than the start of Coen and Syd's relationship (I loved the Bonus scene with them at the end of this book, I really did miss the seahorse couple ;) )! Ha, but emotions are well intense in this book, E L Todd you sure give the reader a wild ride! Such a steamy book as well... Oh and the breakup was just such a heart wrenching experience for me! I felt Henry's pain and frustration! Finally, the setting of the book just became real for me! Thank E L Todd, I enjoyed my Hawaiian excursion! I look forwards to reading the rest of your Hawaiian series! I recommend this book for anyone looking for a steamy read in Hawaii!
February 11, 2014
****I was giventhe arc in return for an honest review****
I found this book to be too lovey dovey for my taste and Henry was a bit too unrealistic and whiney for me. For a man to take that long to get over someone and NOT want to be with another woman is unrealistic. For a woman to be ok to be with a man that is in love with another woman is unrealisitic. For someone to continually put off their wedding until someone is ok with them and can be around them and their fiance be ok with that is unrealistic. I just think Henry was way to serious and intense for me.
I just had a really hard time with this book. Her first 2 were great but this one just seemed to drag on. I hope the 4th to the series is more about Nancy and Derek. That story ought to be funny and interesting.
I found this book to be too lovey dovey for my taste and Henry was a bit too unrealistic and whiney for me. For a man to take that long to get over someone and NOT want to be with another woman is unrealistic. For a woman to be ok to be with a man that is in love with another woman is unrealisitic. For someone to continually put off their wedding until someone is ok with them and can be around them and their fiance be ok with that is unrealistic. I just think Henry was way to serious and intense for me.
I just had a really hard time with this book. Her first 2 were great but this one just seemed to drag on. I hope the 4th to the series is more about Nancy and Derek. That story ought to be funny and interesting.
September 23, 2016
I was given an Arc for an honest review. I wasn't sure about Henry having his own story. After reading how he behaved in the first two books but this book gives you a more in depth look at his character and in all honesty I fell in love with him. If only all men were like him. He shows a different side and although he has a tough time he still remains true to himself. I loved that this story continues from the initial books but you see more of the other characters along with new ones. The story covers some real emotions and events which are described empathetically. Overall I loved this read and I am a sucker for a HEA, although I can see more books following on with other characters stories.
February 13, 2014
** I received a copy of this book for an honest review **
After reading Sydney and Coen's story, I couldn't imagine that Henry's story could even compare. I was so wrong. Getting to know Henry - his family and his feelings, was a wild ride of ups and downs. Henry is a strong character that has taken on a lot of responsibilities from the others around him. The way that he deals with everyone else's problems while trying to conquer his own and find his own happiness made for a great read. I also loved getting to know Ren and her story. This is a great book with Henry overcoming obstacles and finding his true destiny. I loved it and can't wait to read more!
After reading Sydney and Coen's story, I couldn't imagine that Henry's story could even compare. I was so wrong. Getting to know Henry - his family and his feelings, was a wild ride of ups and downs. Henry is a strong character that has taken on a lot of responsibilities from the others around him. The way that he deals with everyone else's problems while trying to conquer his own and find his own happiness made for a great read. I also loved getting to know Ren and her story. This is a great book with Henry overcoming obstacles and finding his true destiny. I loved it and can't wait to read more!
February 6, 2014
Wow, "Connected by the Tide" was truly extraordinary and even better that the first two novels in the Hawaiian Crush series, which were awesome. I'm so happy that I was able to read about Henry's story because I really liked his character when he was first introduced in "Connected by the Sea." Henry and Ren, his love interest, were truly amazing and, in my opinion, perfect characters. This novel and series are truly exceptional and I would definitely recommend them to everyone who enjoys an incredibly great romance.
February 19, 2014
***I received an ARC for an honest review***
After reading the first two books I weren't really all that sure what to make of Henry and tbh I weren't his biggest fan but reading his story I was pleasantly surprised! I really enjoyed it and honestly didn't want to put it down! I found all the new characters great and I think they fit in with the group perfectly! I love that each book is an insight to another couple within the group and I can't wait for more! I loved the story and thought it was the perfect length. Another amazing book by E.L Todd thank you!
After reading the first two books I weren't really all that sure what to make of Henry and tbh I weren't his biggest fan but reading his story I was pleasantly surprised! I really enjoyed it and honestly didn't want to put it down! I found all the new characters great and I think they fit in with the group perfectly! I love that each book is an insight to another couple within the group and I can't wait for more! I loved the story and thought it was the perfect length. Another amazing book by E.L Todd thank you!
July 22, 2016
Wow, I loved reading Henry's story. In the first book, Connected by the Sea from Sydney's POV, he seems like sort of an ass, but we didn't really know that much about him. In this one we get to know him more and understand why he's acting the way he is. I have not read the 2nd book in this series, so I don't know if there was anything I was missing but I seemed to be able to follow the story pretty good.
February 13, 2014
I loved the first book and didn't think this one could live up to it but was I wrong.
I felt really sorry for Henry in the first book and I'm so glad he got his happy ever after. The story was really good about how two people can come together even though they are both broken and how they help mend each other. There was so much about this story that I loved. Can't wait for the next book.
I would definitely recommend this book it is a great read.
I felt really sorry for Henry in the first book and I'm so glad he got his happy ever after. The story was really good about how two people can come together even though they are both broken and how they help mend each other. There was so much about this story that I loved. Can't wait for the next book.
I would definitely recommend this book it is a great read.
March 18, 2014
I received this book from the author in exchange for an honest review.
I was so happy to see that Henry was getting a story.. I was sorta pissed how he was towards Sydney. I liked how Ren was there to help Henry get over Sydney and then there was Nancy and Derek and Ren's brothers.. I loved all the characters in this series.. I could not put this book down.. Coen and Syd's vows were so touching and I can't wait to read more..
I was so happy to see that Henry was getting a story.. I was sorta pissed how he was towards Sydney. I liked how Ren was there to help Henry get over Sydney and then there was Nancy and Derek and Ren's brothers.. I loved all the characters in this series.. I could not put this book down.. Coen and Syd's vows were so touching and I can't wait to read more..
May 26, 2014
To be truthful. I could not finish this book. It is fairly well written but to me it did not have enough depth to it. The characters in the book are collage kids & like most collage kids all they think about is sex. But when I read a book I want more than reading about kids having bunny sex all the time. Just not to my taste.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
April 1, 2014
What a beautiful story for Henry, he really deserved to be happy after what he'd been through and the reaction of Ren when she was angry with him was a little bit selfish but i know from experience that everybody reacts the same way if they were in her shoes but i like to say that after all the trouble and misery it gets better and better.
Good job again E.L. Todd.
Good job again E.L. Todd.
February 13, 2014
Review to follow
February 23, 2014
Great book. I was very happy that Henry was able to find someone that he could have a real relationship with. Ren is amazing. Love her.
June 4, 2016
Connected by the Tide
Gave it a five star rating. Loved the story it was great couldn't stop reading it until I finished it. Now on to the next book of t series.
Gave it a five star rating. Loved the story it was great couldn't stop reading it until I finished it. Now on to the next book of t series.
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