What do you think?
Rate this book
Defining Destiny #1
Defining Destiny
When destiny fails…
Singer-songwriter Lucy Moore thought her life was perfect. At just twenty-one, she’s already met her soul mate and together they’ve landed a recording contract. But when her father dies and the love of her life betrays her in more ways than one, she returns home to pick up the pieces. On the shores of Mendocino, California, Lucy has some decisions to make. Should she start a solo career? Or should she leave it all behind for some semblance of normalcy in the quiet town she grew up in? And what about Seth, the tortured artist who always seems to be there when she needs him?
Seth Keenan has demons of his own. Eighteen months ago, he was involved in a horrific accident that he never talks about. His career as an accomplished oil-paint artist has been abandoned, replaced by the buzz of his tattoo gun. And women—well, he never sticks around for longer than a few hours of pleasure… until he meets Lucy. After one evening of listening to her seductive voice, he’s pulled under. But what about the vow he made to never get close to anyone again?
In a world where everyone has one true soul mate, can these two find love in the arms of each other?
Singer-songwriter Lucy Moore thought her life was perfect. At just twenty-one, she’s already met her soul mate and together they’ve landed a recording contract. But when her father dies and the love of her life betrays her in more ways than one, she returns home to pick up the pieces. On the shores of Mendocino, California, Lucy has some decisions to make. Should she start a solo career? Or should she leave it all behind for some semblance of normalcy in the quiet town she grew up in? And what about Seth, the tortured artist who always seems to be there when she needs him?
Seth Keenan has demons of his own. Eighteen months ago, he was involved in a horrific accident that he never talks about. His career as an accomplished oil-paint artist has been abandoned, replaced by the buzz of his tattoo gun. And women—well, he never sticks around for longer than a few hours of pleasure… until he meets Lucy. After one evening of listening to her seductive voice, he’s pulled under. But what about the vow he made to never get close to anyone again?
In a world where everyone has one true soul mate, can these two find love in the arms of each other?
266 pages, ebook
First published February 20, 2014
195 people are currently reading
1905 people want to read
About the author
Deanna Chase
133 books1,687 followersDeanna is a native Californian, transplanted to the slower paced lifestyle of southeastern Louisiana. When she isn't writing, she is often goofing off with her husband in New Orleans, playing with her two shih tzu dogs, making glass beads, or out hocking her wares at various bead shows across the country. For more information and updates on newest releases visit her blog at www.deannachase.com.
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 154 reviews
February 25, 2014
So let me start by saying I really wanted to like Defining destiny . I mean rocker heroes have their own appeal,but I'm a sucker for rock star heroines, ( maybe cuz there so few of them!) so when I saw the summary for this, I was pretty stoked.
Than came the part, where I actually read the book. And while the writing style was pretty decent, I couldn't stand these characters! The hero, the heroine, or their mutual best friend ( who as a side character should have stayed on the side, damnit!). There were a couple more characters strewn about but I had a hard time keeping them straight.
Okay now, there are spoilers ahead, so only keep reading if you don't mind them!
So the story: the rock star heroine find outs that her soul mate/ lover/boyfriend/ band member, has been cheating and flat out lying to her, so she goes home to her BFF, who happened to make a new BFF, the H, who is a self proclaimed man whore ( which we don't really see). So ours mc's meet, sparks fly. The Heroine is pretty Adamant she won't go back to her jerk faced ex, ( except for a couple times), even if he is her one and only soul mate. so she feels free to move on with H. The H is just as sure she will go back to her soul mate, eventually. But they ( the H and h) figure that since she can't see herself with her soul mate now, then she might as well screw around with the H! But they cant seem me to work things out, so it comes to the question of will they or won't they. ( will they/won't they get together? Get past their own issues /trust each other. Etc.
So let's start with the H....While the he wasn't married, he was in a previous relationship with some one ( his soul mate) who dies. So he was the pretty much a widower hero...what does that mean? He spent an inordinate amount of time thinking about his previous lover( at one point, iirc, right after he's had sex with the heroine!)
And this is a personal gripe of mine, I hate widower stories! Hate them ,hate them hate them! because how on earth am I supposed to believe in a HEA for the H and h, if his previous, relationship was so so great! And the if it' was with his one and only soul mate, of all people! There's a lot of time spent with the h moving on from her very much alive ( though douchey) soul mate, but not nearly enough time spent with the H moving on from his deceased one. In fact, IMO he really hasn't dealt with it, and could probably use a therapist ( why wasn't that mentioned?in this world, it's a thing, People apparently have relationships after their mates die, so wouldn't therapy be a good way of showing people there is still life to live, post death/loss of the other halves of their souls?) and the fact that's it's not even mentioned as an option, makes me think the H's depression/ grief will make a comeback and blow up in their faces and that this HEA isn't much of one, but instead is a hfn.
And the heroines. She's a little wishy washy,and while I didn't really care for her, I can't put it into words why I couldn't connect with her.
The worst though, IMO wast their best friend, who was IMO more bitchy and whiny than supportive...I sorta feel like the author forgot this wasn't said BFF's story, and just had her in the book waaaaay too much... It sorta felt like the friend was fed up with not being the focus, not being in the limelight, and tried to shove the heroine out of her own story. And the H spends a little too much time checking out the T and A of Said best friend, grrr. It might happen in real life, but in my fiction, a romance novel no less, it just doesn't fucking belong.
Oh and another thing that bugged me was and the whole soul mates thing, itself as it's never explained! At all! Can you grrrr and a half? We're just dumped into a world, where apparently, everyone has a soul mate, it's not just something some people believe, while other people think it's totally bull, no, its a real thing, that happens in this book....but the whole concept is never explained, which means there are a lot of questions...like, what exactly a soul mate is/does? How often do people find their mates? How do they find the, is it just luck of the draw? You just happen to come across them and bam! Or is there more to it than that? And how come finding your soul mate doesn't mean, they'll stay faithful ( if you've found your damn soul mate, why the hell would you needs or even want to cheat?) And if it's your soul mate you've lost, just by their very title, how could you move on, and have any sort of meaningful relationship, with someone who isn't, literally, your other half? Doesn't that screw things up for the other person in the relationship? You're pining away for someone else, someone who is literally the other half of you, but since you can't be with them, you just move on to someone else? Someone else who is not the other half of you? Yeah, sorry that just doesn't work, IMO. Especially not in what's supposed to be a romance. I just couldn't buy it, 2 stars.
Keep in mind that quite a few other people seemed to like this one, so it just be me who couldn't mesh with this story.
April 20, 2014
I generally tend to really enjoy books set around a musical world as they’re normally really creative and deep which is why I wanted to read this book.
Lucy is a singer in a band with her boyfriend Cadan and they also write the songs they play. She knows that Cadan is her soul mate (I’ll get to that later) and they’re madly in love. But, Cadan cheats on Lucy and she screams and shouts at him and tells him that it’s over. I did respect her for telling Cadan off but that didn’t last very long. She goes back to him a couple of times even when she’s adamant that she won’t after what he does to her. Anyway, she has a fiery personality and that was something I liked about her. You never knew what she was going to do next even if that was rushing in to things at times.
Cadan was horrible and I absolutely hated him. That’s pretty much all I have to say because I’ll explain a bit more about him in the soul mate section.
Seth I was also very unsure of. I liked him for the most part but he also had a ‘mate’ and focused on that far too much. He was a character with so many problems but unlike with Lucy, I enjoyed watching him work through those problems and learn from his past experiences. However, some of his issues aren’t very realistic, especially in the way that they’re dealt with so I thought that this could have been done a little bit better. Seth is a bit of a tortured soul and who doesn’t like a character like that?
The whole soul mate aspect of this book annoyed the hell out of me. I wouldn’t have minded but from the very first page you’re expected to believe that everyone has one soul mate. There was no explanation of Lucy believing in this, or any other character for that matter, everyone else just seemed to think that was what happened. Not only that but Lucy’s soul mate was an arsehole and a half. He cheated on her and treated her like dirt! What kind of soul mate is that?! Not one I would want, that’s for sure. And, if Cadan was really Lucy’s soul mate to begin with, why would she ever go for anyone else. I just didn’t get it and I didn’t believe it at all.
As for the plot, it was all a bit meh. Nothing exciting really happened and all we really get is a lot of back and forth from Lucy. There were so many decisions gone back on and no one knowing their own minds. I wanted more substance from all of the characters involved and I wanted them to be more solid. It seemed as though the author couldn’t make up her mind about which direction she wanted the story to go in which is why it was all over the place.
It was such a shame that I didn’t really like this book because it did have promise.
Lucy is a singer in a band with her boyfriend Cadan and they also write the songs they play. She knows that Cadan is her soul mate (I’ll get to that later) and they’re madly in love. But, Cadan cheats on Lucy and she screams and shouts at him and tells him that it’s over. I did respect her for telling Cadan off but that didn’t last very long. She goes back to him a couple of times even when she’s adamant that she won’t after what he does to her. Anyway, she has a fiery personality and that was something I liked about her. You never knew what she was going to do next even if that was rushing in to things at times.
Cadan was horrible and I absolutely hated him. That’s pretty much all I have to say because I’ll explain a bit more about him in the soul mate section.
Seth I was also very unsure of. I liked him for the most part but he also had a ‘mate’ and focused on that far too much. He was a character with so many problems but unlike with Lucy, I enjoyed watching him work through those problems and learn from his past experiences. However, some of his issues aren’t very realistic, especially in the way that they’re dealt with so I thought that this could have been done a little bit better. Seth is a bit of a tortured soul and who doesn’t like a character like that?
The whole soul mate aspect of this book annoyed the hell out of me. I wouldn’t have minded but from the very first page you’re expected to believe that everyone has one soul mate. There was no explanation of Lucy believing in this, or any other character for that matter, everyone else just seemed to think that was what happened. Not only that but Lucy’s soul mate was an arsehole and a half. He cheated on her and treated her like dirt! What kind of soul mate is that?! Not one I would want, that’s for sure. And, if Cadan was really Lucy’s soul mate to begin with, why would she ever go for anyone else. I just didn’t get it and I didn’t believe it at all.
As for the plot, it was all a bit meh. Nothing exciting really happened and all we really get is a lot of back and forth from Lucy. There were so many decisions gone back on and no one knowing their own minds. I wanted more substance from all of the characters involved and I wanted them to be more solid. It seemed as though the author couldn’t make up her mind about which direction she wanted the story to go in which is why it was all over the place.
It was such a shame that I didn’t really like this book because it did have promise.
June 28, 2017
This story would have been so much better, and at least a 4 star read for me, without the added & Unneeded element of Soul Mates. Especially if in this version, a soul mate isn't someone you'll end up with. That your soul mate can & most likely will be bad for you & the whole of your life. That they're either selfish, self centered lying a&&holes, or they're dead.
WTActualF is that? The fact that you can have a deeper more whole connection to someone who isn't your soul mate, renders this story completely pointless.
There were things that were interesting & even loving and sexy here. But that goes for the story outside of the whole destined mates things. This book would have been fine without the confusing & disppointing mess of the soul mate angle.
So no, I can't say I would recommend this one. I would say skip it.
It's hard to ignore the added elements here. It really mucks up the story as a whole that other wise would have been a decent read.
WTActualF is that? The fact that you can have a deeper more whole connection to someone who isn't your soul mate, renders this story completely pointless.
There were things that were interesting & even loving and sexy here. But that goes for the story outside of the whole destined mates things. This book would have been fine without the confusing & disppointing mess of the soul mate angle.
So no, I can't say I would recommend this one. I would say skip it.
It's hard to ignore the added elements here. It really mucks up the story as a whole that other wise would have been a decent read.
April 5, 2014
*sobs* SO MUCH LOVE FOR THIS BOOK <3 Full review will be posted on February 27th for my stop on the 'Defining Destiny' Blog Tour. http://www.oldvictorianquill.wordpres...
Edit : full review
I’m one of those people who just adores it when a unique, but realistic blend of real life and fantasy is mixed in fiction. I’m all for full on fantasy, but in these kind of stories, I need the spiritual side of the story to seem real, which in turn makes the characters feel real to me.
Defining Destiny was an absolute gem of a novel, and from the word go and I just knew that this was going to be a favourite of mine. I loved how author Deanna Chase created a really great concept of people having only one soul-mate, and this being the accepted norm for everybody and not just a long-forgotten myth that was brought about in the hippy era. I adored how the idea of soul-mates drove every action of the characters lives, and that without that one person, you aren’t considered to be whole.
I loved reading of Lucy’s fight for her right as a woman to be treated with respect, and to make her own choices. Her soul-mate Caden was one of those guys who I just wanted to grab out of the book and hit around the head with a mallet (I’m not usually a violent person, but he would honestly deserve it). I hated how he used his and Lucy’s connection to keep her with him, despite him not treasuring her or treating her as she deserves. His sleeping around was one thing, but using their soul-mate connection and Lucy’s deepest hurts to enhance his own career was just plain selfish and worthy of a great whack of a mallet, especially since Lucy so often made excuses for him, and let herself take the brunt of the pain because he had made her believe that he was in the right.
I loved the idea of fighting destiny that the author used as the main thread throughout the novel. It was well-paced as well, with both Lucy and Seth mourning the loss of their soul-mates within appropriate time-spans and their connection with each other, and their relationship developing at a brilliantly tempting and tantalising pace. I adored how their relationship came about, and just how they could be themselves around each other, with no expectations of having to perform to anyone else’s expectations.
I can’t express how much I loved this story, Lucy and Seth were such a brilliant, and dynamic couple, and one that I rooted for throughout. I have always loved the idea of soul-mates, as well as the title known as ‘twin flames’. Although it wasn’t mentioned in this book, I felt like Lucy and Seth were twin-flames, with a deeper connection than even that of a soul mate. They were alike, yet different enough to invoke flames between them and it was so exciting to join them on their journey.
This was an absolute pleasure to read, and whilst I hoped throughout that Seth and Lucy could get their happily ever after, I always had that lurking worry in the back of my mind that they couldn’t hide from their destiny that would lead them to other people. Deanna Chase had carefully entwined this fear within me, which had my heart racing as I read the last few chapters, even holding my breath as I waited for their outcome. That shows the true talent of this author, and makes her one that I would read again in a second.
A truly beautiful story that really touched the romantic (and the deep down rebel) in me.
5 Stars
Edit : full review
I’m one of those people who just adores it when a unique, but realistic blend of real life and fantasy is mixed in fiction. I’m all for full on fantasy, but in these kind of stories, I need the spiritual side of the story to seem real, which in turn makes the characters feel real to me.
Defining Destiny was an absolute gem of a novel, and from the word go and I just knew that this was going to be a favourite of mine. I loved how author Deanna Chase created a really great concept of people having only one soul-mate, and this being the accepted norm for everybody and not just a long-forgotten myth that was brought about in the hippy era. I adored how the idea of soul-mates drove every action of the characters lives, and that without that one person, you aren’t considered to be whole.
I loved reading of Lucy’s fight for her right as a woman to be treated with respect, and to make her own choices. Her soul-mate Caden was one of those guys who I just wanted to grab out of the book and hit around the head with a mallet (I’m not usually a violent person, but he would honestly deserve it). I hated how he used his and Lucy’s connection to keep her with him, despite him not treasuring her or treating her as she deserves. His sleeping around was one thing, but using their soul-mate connection and Lucy’s deepest hurts to enhance his own career was just plain selfish and worthy of a great whack of a mallet, especially since Lucy so often made excuses for him, and let herself take the brunt of the pain because he had made her believe that he was in the right.
I loved the idea of fighting destiny that the author used as the main thread throughout the novel. It was well-paced as well, with both Lucy and Seth mourning the loss of their soul-mates within appropriate time-spans and their connection with each other, and their relationship developing at a brilliantly tempting and tantalising pace. I adored how their relationship came about, and just how they could be themselves around each other, with no expectations of having to perform to anyone else’s expectations.
I can’t express how much I loved this story, Lucy and Seth were such a brilliant, and dynamic couple, and one that I rooted for throughout. I have always loved the idea of soul-mates, as well as the title known as ‘twin flames’. Although it wasn’t mentioned in this book, I felt like Lucy and Seth were twin-flames, with a deeper connection than even that of a soul mate. They were alike, yet different enough to invoke flames between them and it was so exciting to join them on their journey.
This was an absolute pleasure to read, and whilst I hoped throughout that Seth and Lucy could get their happily ever after, I always had that lurking worry in the back of my mind that they couldn’t hide from their destiny that would lead them to other people. Deanna Chase had carefully entwined this fear within me, which had my heart racing as I read the last few chapters, even holding my breath as I waited for their outcome. That shows the true talent of this author, and makes her one that I would read again in a second.
A truly beautiful story that really touched the romantic (and the deep down rebel) in me.
5 Stars
February 24, 2014
4 stars
I jumped into conclusions when I first read the synopsis for DEFINING DESTINY . It mentioned the heroine's dad dying and the hero being involved in an accident, I thought, "oh he was involved in the accident that killed her dad!" LOL! Thought it would be a cliche, angst-ridden story... but I chose to review it anyway because I thought I might be proven wrong. You know what, that did happen.
Lucy and Seth sure have their respective hang-ups. She with her dad's death and her boyfriend's betrayal, and him with the death of someone he absolutely, wholeheartedly loved. By the time they meet, Lucy is not ready for anything permanent because her career's in limbo while Seth has sworn off women and serious relationships.
As mentioned in the synopsis, Lucy is a singer and songwriter. She seems to live a perfect life: she has a thriving career, fame, tons of adoring fans, and with her soul mate Cadan by her side. It is said that whenever they sing together, it's like magic happens. Audiences become riveted, sucked into the emotions evoked by their songs. They sounded like the perfect recording partners and the dream of music producers.
Unfortunately, that perfection is just on the surface. The truth is that Cadan is a cheater, both in their personal and working relationships. However, although Lucy was hurt by Cadan's sleeping with other women, him stealing her songs angered and hurt her even more.
Seth... his story is so sad, it's a wonder that he's not completely depressed and dark all the time. Ever since his tragedy he went through women like a person goes through clothes. No emotional attachments at all, just sleeping around. His pain affected his life's passion, which is actually painting. He veered off to becoming a tattoo artist instead.
The first half of the story seemed to go by very quickly. Deanna Chase wrote it smoothly and the momentum continued on a fast track. I liked it because I didn't get bored and I was quickly pulled into the developing love story between Lucy and Seth. They did fall into bed rather quickly, but the attraction and chemistry was so potent, I was like, oh alright, fine, do what you guys want! =P Those scenes were steamy and very well-written. There was also one "after" moment that I found sweet and just wonderful. Lucy wakes up to see Seth already up and quietly sketching her. Definitely an "awww" moment!
I loved how their relationship developed. When Lucy lost her dad, she lost her constant, her anchor. Seth lost his love, his passion, his inspiration. Soon though, Lucy became Seth's anchor and he became the one that mattered the most.
Now for the secondary characters.. Cadan was a huge disappointment. He's one of those people that you'd think will be better people if fame and money are out of the picture. Then we have Jax, Lucy's best friend. I really want to congratulate Deanna for keeping things real! She is a knockout and is bestfriends with Seth (while Lucy is away for her career, they grew close), who is also one hot guy. Naturally one of them would be interested in the other, and in this case it was Jax. The author handled it beautifully though! I admit I was nervous at first because I absolutely hated cheating or anything similar, but that didn't happen here! There was a discussion, points were made, and friendships were preserved =D yippee!
I thought it was clever too the way Deanna dropped some background stories and trivia about the secondary characters. She got dumped by him, he had his heart broken, she's looking for love,etc... This book isn't promoted as the first of a series, but I daresay the author can very well do a series now! She piqued my interest about her secondary characters. She makes you wonder what exactly happened to them before, and what might happen in the future. Even Lucy's parents commanded attention. For me, I'd love to see Jax find her own HEA. Seth's sister and his friends were also intriguing!
One thing I found weird though was the constant use of the word "mate". It means soul mate, but that word alone was uttered several times as a noun and everyone understood what it is. It's like, who is he? He's her mate, period. It's more paranormal than NA/Contemporary, in my opinion.
DEFINING DESTINY is a really very good read. I liked the story, the characters save three, which you'll know if you read the book!
Read more of my reviews at In My Room Reading.
Copy was provided for the blog tour hosted by Xpresso Book Tours.
I jumped into conclusions when I first read the synopsis for DEFINING DESTINY . It mentioned the heroine's dad dying and the hero being involved in an accident, I thought, "oh he was involved in the accident that killed her dad!" LOL! Thought it would be a cliche, angst-ridden story... but I chose to review it anyway because I thought I might be proven wrong. You know what, that did happen.
Lucy and Seth sure have their respective hang-ups. She with her dad's death and her boyfriend's betrayal, and him with the death of someone he absolutely, wholeheartedly loved. By the time they meet, Lucy is not ready for anything permanent because her career's in limbo while Seth has sworn off women and serious relationships.
As mentioned in the synopsis, Lucy is a singer and songwriter. She seems to live a perfect life: she has a thriving career, fame, tons of adoring fans, and with her soul mate Cadan by her side. It is said that whenever they sing together, it's like magic happens. Audiences become riveted, sucked into the emotions evoked by their songs. They sounded like the perfect recording partners and the dream of music producers.
Cadan is my soul mate... The one who is supposed to understand me better than anyone. And together, we make music that is beloved by millions of people around the world. Everybody has one true soul mate I've been told.
Unfortunately, that perfection is just on the surface. The truth is that Cadan is a cheater, both in their personal and working relationships. However, although Lucy was hurt by Cadan's sleeping with other women, him stealing her songs angered and hurt her even more.
Everyone else saw the beauty of our harmony, while I was stuck with the shit he created with his selfishness.
I'm done letting him treat me as if I'm nothing but a meal ticket on his way to fame and fortune...
Seth... his story is so sad, it's a wonder that he's not completely depressed and dark all the time. Ever since his tragedy he went through women like a person goes through clothes. No emotional attachments at all, just sleeping around. His pain affected his life's passion, which is actually painting. He veered off to becoming a tattoo artist instead.
The first half of the story seemed to go by very quickly. Deanna Chase wrote it smoothly and the momentum continued on a fast track. I liked it because I didn't get bored and I was quickly pulled into the developing love story between Lucy and Seth. They did fall into bed rather quickly, but the attraction and chemistry was so potent, I was like, oh alright, fine, do what you guys want! =P Those scenes were steamy and very well-written. There was also one "after" moment that I found sweet and just wonderful. Lucy wakes up to see Seth already up and quietly sketching her. Definitely an "awww" moment!
She has become my muse, the one I can't walk away from.
I loved how their relationship developed. When Lucy lost her dad, she lost her constant, her anchor. Seth lost his love, his passion, his inspiration. Soon though, Lucy became Seth's anchor and he became the one that mattered the most.
Now for the secondary characters.. Cadan was a huge disappointment. He's one of those people that you'd think will be better people if fame and money are out of the picture. Then we have Jax, Lucy's best friend. I really want to congratulate Deanna for keeping things real! She is a knockout and is bestfriends with Seth (while Lucy is away for her career, they grew close), who is also one hot guy. Naturally one of them would be interested in the other, and in this case it was Jax. The author handled it beautifully though! I admit I was nervous at first because I absolutely hated cheating or anything similar, but that didn't happen here! There was a discussion, points were made, and friendships were preserved =D yippee!
I thought it was clever too the way Deanna dropped some background stories and trivia about the secondary characters. She got dumped by him, he had his heart broken, she's looking for love,etc... This book isn't promoted as the first of a series, but I daresay the author can very well do a series now! She piqued my interest about her secondary characters. She makes you wonder what exactly happened to them before, and what might happen in the future. Even Lucy's parents commanded attention. For me, I'd love to see Jax find her own HEA. Seth's sister and his friends were also intriguing!
One thing I found weird though was the constant use of the word "mate". It means soul mate, but that word alone was uttered several times as a noun and everyone understood what it is. It's like, who is he? He's her mate, period. It's more paranormal than NA/Contemporary, in my opinion.
DEFINING DESTINY is a really very good read. I liked the story, the characters save three, which you'll know if you read the book!
Read more of my reviews at In My Room Reading.
Copy was provided for the blog tour hosted by Xpresso Book Tours.
December 2, 2014
Finding Destiny by Deanna Chase is a 2014 Bayou Moon Publishing, LLC publication. I was provided a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
This New Adult/ Contemporary Romance captured my attention from the first chapter and kept me deeply invested in the characters and their lives.
Lucy believes she and Caden are they are soul mates. They are famous and successful musical artist, but when Lucy's father died she used her talent to write very personal songs about her father, her pain and loss. When she discovers Caden took her songs and agreed to have them recorded without her permission, on top of finding out he has been cheating her with groupies, she can no longer stand to be around him.
Returning home to Mendocino, California to pull herself together and regroup, Lucy finds herself out with her best friend Jax. The instant her eyes lock with Jax's friend, Seth, things get complicated .
Seth is a talented artist suffering incredible grief after losing his girlfriend. Instead of sketching he now applies his talent as a tattoo artist. Meeting Lucy has awakened something in Seth he had thought he would never experience again, and would never want to. But, if Caden is Lucy's soul mate, like she claims how could she have a long term, deep and meaningful relationship with Seth?
Well, I love the concept of soul mates and I do believe in them, but I don't know if I think all people have them. In this case the weak spot of the story for me was trying to understand how someone as shallow, immature, manipulative, and selfish as Caden could be Lucy's soul mate. I think maybe her poisonous mother has drilled that concept into Lucy's brain so often, Lucy has the idea so deeply imbedded into her psyche she is unable to relinquish the idea. Of course I understand the book is about choosing one's own destiny, but a person can do that without being mentally tied to a person so toxic to them for all eternity. So, this concept was one I had a hard time wrapping my brain around. Personally, I believe the person you are in love with is your soul mate. But, that's just me and other than this one area I was on the fence about, the book is a solid romance novel which would appeal more to the New Adult audience, but contemporary romance readers will appreciate this story as well.
I enjoy a story written from the first person perspectives of the two main characters, in this case, Seth and Lucy. This gives the reader a much deeper and personal insight into what is going on with each character. Seth is cautious and his sadness jumps off the page at you as does Lucy's anger and frustration. Occasionally I became irritated with Lucy because of her obvious weakness when it came to Caden. The secondary characters were also central to the story, adding strength, confusion, and at times a touch of extreme dislike – for instance, Lucy's mother.
Overall this is a compelling story, well written, and an interesting spin on the rock star romance trope. I was relieved beyond words at how things worked out for Lucy and Seth. I think that deep down these two will come to realize, in time, they are one another's soul mate after all.
Favorite quote:
“ What is it with men and romantic comedies? Do they think watching two fictional people work out their issues for an hour and half means some kind of commitment?”
4 stars
This New Adult/ Contemporary Romance captured my attention from the first chapter and kept me deeply invested in the characters and their lives.
Lucy believes she and Caden are they are soul mates. They are famous and successful musical artist, but when Lucy's father died she used her talent to write very personal songs about her father, her pain and loss. When she discovers Caden took her songs and agreed to have them recorded without her permission, on top of finding out he has been cheating her with groupies, she can no longer stand to be around him.
Returning home to Mendocino, California to pull herself together and regroup, Lucy finds herself out with her best friend Jax. The instant her eyes lock with Jax's friend, Seth, things get complicated .
Seth is a talented artist suffering incredible grief after losing his girlfriend. Instead of sketching he now applies his talent as a tattoo artist. Meeting Lucy has awakened something in Seth he had thought he would never experience again, and would never want to. But, if Caden is Lucy's soul mate, like she claims how could she have a long term, deep and meaningful relationship with Seth?
Well, I love the concept of soul mates and I do believe in them, but I don't know if I think all people have them. In this case the weak spot of the story for me was trying to understand how someone as shallow, immature, manipulative, and selfish as Caden could be Lucy's soul mate. I think maybe her poisonous mother has drilled that concept into Lucy's brain so often, Lucy has the idea so deeply imbedded into her psyche she is unable to relinquish the idea. Of course I understand the book is about choosing one's own destiny, but a person can do that without being mentally tied to a person so toxic to them for all eternity. So, this concept was one I had a hard time wrapping my brain around. Personally, I believe the person you are in love with is your soul mate. But, that's just me and other than this one area I was on the fence about, the book is a solid romance novel which would appeal more to the New Adult audience, but contemporary romance readers will appreciate this story as well.
I enjoy a story written from the first person perspectives of the two main characters, in this case, Seth and Lucy. This gives the reader a much deeper and personal insight into what is going on with each character. Seth is cautious and his sadness jumps off the page at you as does Lucy's anger and frustration. Occasionally I became irritated with Lucy because of her obvious weakness when it came to Caden. The secondary characters were also central to the story, adding strength, confusion, and at times a touch of extreme dislike – for instance, Lucy's mother.
Overall this is a compelling story, well written, and an interesting spin on the rock star romance trope. I was relieved beyond words at how things worked out for Lucy and Seth. I think that deep down these two will come to realize, in time, they are one another's soul mate after all.
Favorite quote:
“ What is it with men and romantic comedies? Do they think watching two fictional people work out their issues for an hour and half means some kind of commitment?”
4 stars
March 4, 2014
When destiny fails...
Singer-songwriter Lucy Moore thought her life was perfect. At just twenty-one, she's already met her soul mate and together they've landed a recording contract. But when her father dies and the love of her life betrays her in more ways than one, she returns home to pick up the pieces. On the shores of Mendocino, California, Lucy has some decisions to make. Should she start a solo career? Or should she leave it all behind for some semblance of normalcy in the quiet town she grew up in? And what about Seth, the tortured artist who always seems to be there when she needs him?
Seth Keenan has demons of his own. Eighteen months ago, he was involved in a horrific accident that he never talks about. His career as an accomplished oil-paint artist has been abandoned, replaced by the buzz of his tattoo gun. And women--well, he never sticks around for longer than a few hours of pleasure... until he meets Lucy. After one evening of listening to her seductive voice, he's pulled under. But what about the vow he made to never get close to anyone again?
What a great love story. So glad she got rid of duffus. He was one brick shy of a full load. She
had been through enough, and shouldn't have to take more from her so called 'soul mate'. I loved
the book. What a great writter. So creative and inventive. Such great love scenes too. 5 star.
Singer-songwriter Lucy Moore thought her life was perfect. At just twenty-one, she's already met her soul mate and together they've landed a recording contract. But when her father dies and the love of her life betrays her in more ways than one, she returns home to pick up the pieces. On the shores of Mendocino, California, Lucy has some decisions to make. Should she start a solo career? Or should she leave it all behind for some semblance of normalcy in the quiet town she grew up in? And what about Seth, the tortured artist who always seems to be there when she needs him?
Seth Keenan has demons of his own. Eighteen months ago, he was involved in a horrific accident that he never talks about. His career as an accomplished oil-paint artist has been abandoned, replaced by the buzz of his tattoo gun. And women--well, he never sticks around for longer than a few hours of pleasure... until he meets Lucy. After one evening of listening to her seductive voice, he's pulled under. But what about the vow he made to never get close to anyone again?
What a great love story. So glad she got rid of duffus. He was one brick shy of a full load. She
had been through enough, and shouldn't have to take more from her so called 'soul mate'. I loved
the book. What a great writter. So creative and inventive. Such great love scenes too. 5 star.
April 23, 2015
I received a copy of this story through Net Galley. Yay books!
Possible spoilers ahead.
This was an okay story, and would be great if you wanted a quick fluffy romance to read. I tended to skip around in this story. Mainly because a lot of the parts were boring to me and I had to force myself to go back.
And I don't agree 100% about the soul mate thing. That took some getting used to. It made me think that the people who hadn't met their soul mate yet, weren't really doing anything to the fullest. Like they kept saying about Lucy and her mate, music was better when they were together. And with Seth and his mate, they painted together, and when they did it meant that piece of art was going to be sold.
I don't know. It was just weird to me.
That, and Lucy's mate was a bastard. That might be the main reason why I can't get down with the notion of soul mates. Because to me, if someone is your soul mate they wouldn't be as self centered of a prick as that guy was.
Possible spoilers ahead.
This was an okay story, and would be great if you wanted a quick fluffy romance to read. I tended to skip around in this story. Mainly because a lot of the parts were boring to me and I had to force myself to go back.
And I don't agree 100% about the soul mate thing. That took some getting used to. It made me think that the people who hadn't met their soul mate yet, weren't really doing anything to the fullest. Like they kept saying about Lucy and her mate, music was better when they were together. And with Seth and his mate, they painted together, and when they did it meant that piece of art was going to be sold.
I don't know. It was just weird to me.
That, and Lucy's mate was a bastard. That might be the main reason why I can't get down with the notion of soul mates. Because to me, if someone is your soul mate they wouldn't be as self centered of a prick as that guy was.
February 23, 2014
Lucy has some fire in her, "I glare and step away from him, steadier now. "No matter how it turns out? Seriously? Don't be a jerk. It's not easy to get up in front of a room full of drunken a**holes and sing your heart out." Seth he's full of passion, "Lucy," he gasps. "I want you. I want you pressed up against this wall with me buried inside you when I come." He's fiercely protective, "by now Seth is done with the tattoo he was working on and is standing beside me, a murderous expression on his face. 'He stole the song you wrote for your dad? Did I hear that right?" And Lucy she likes to show Seth a good time, "hey. "Her smile turns mischievous and then she grabs my shirt and yanks me inside." I would really love it if Jax got a story.
March 17, 2020
I really wanted to like this book, but I started resenting all the toxic people in Lucy’s life. They’re toxic from the first chapter to the very end, and was just so disheartening to read for most of it. I later found out that there is an explanation at the beginning of the story about this being an alternate reality, but since I had the audiobook, this was apparently missing and caused me a lot of confusion with the way she kept going on and on and on about Soulmates. I got the sense that it was an alternate reality, but it never fully explained how one finds their soulmate or what it means when it happens. It certainly could have been better explained. I feel like she should have either done away with the alternate reality piece, or fully embraced it and added more magic than there was. I’ve read a lot of Chase’s other books and was happy to finally find one that embraces foul language and passion instead of tiptoeing around it.
I did appreciate that each character had their own demons to overcome, and there was a lot of depth to each character, but sometimes that darkness rambled on a bit longer than necessary. I think a lot of back and forth could have been cut out of the book and condensed it without losing much in the story. I like seeing the strength in Lucy when she finally decides to walk away from her mate and do what’s best for her, but she’s too trusting and continually gets walked on. And the frustration that the characters won’t actually talk to solve their problems adds to the frustration. There was so much potential, characters you start to love, but just end up being let down in the end. Maybe the next book will be better, but I can honestly say that I’m satisfied with the ending and leave it at that.
I did appreciate that each character had their own demons to overcome, and there was a lot of depth to each character, but sometimes that darkness rambled on a bit longer than necessary. I think a lot of back and forth could have been cut out of the book and condensed it without losing much in the story. I like seeing the strength in Lucy when she finally decides to walk away from her mate and do what’s best for her, but she’s too trusting and continually gets walked on. And the frustration that the characters won’t actually talk to solve their problems adds to the frustration. There was so much potential, characters you start to love, but just end up being let down in the end. Maybe the next book will be better, but I can honestly say that I’m satisfied with the ending and leave it at that.
July 11, 2014
Thank you for the opportunity to read your book. I must say that it's the first time when I felt the need to make notes and will cite a few paragraphs that I found absolutely wonderful and thoroughly touching.
Young, I read about a myth saying people were spheres and the gods, jealous on their perfection, split the spheres and threw them on the earth, ever since we look for the soul mate, the half of the splintered sphere... That is what the introduction to the book made me think about and the book, really, doesn't disappoint.
"In an alternate reality everyone really does only have one true soul mate. And that connection has a magical element that affects not only the couple, but the people around them" is the word to the reader in the beginning of the book.
Lucy is a talented singer, she has found her soul mate, but is questioning it "Dad said life was like the vast ocean. Turbulent, beautiful, calming, devastating. And he said to truly live, one needed all those things". The recent death of her father and the deep connection with him, the only person that unconditionally loved her, along with her soul mate's- Cadan -interest in her related to only their music and financial success, his manipulation and cheating, her strained relation with her mother, who abandoned her father and Lucy when she found her own soul mate (a guy who seems lacking any notable quality) make Lucy wonder if she should keep her relationship with Cadan in the name of the mystic connection which has a magical impact on the music they create and play, with the high price of losing herself or she should take the harder, painful, lonely way of severing the connection, knowing that a part of her will always be with her soul mate and the chances to find another love are minimal.
Seth, on the other hand, lost his soul mate, E/Elsa, and, with her, his creativity- Elsa had a terrible car accident while bringing an inebriated Seth back home from an evening out with his friends. Astoundingly for both Lucy and Seth, after a mind blowing, first sight, wild attraction, they grow attached to each other, become friends and end by falling in love. It is funny the reverse way their relationship evolves, from wow sex to growing emotion,scary involvement and deep love. I won't spoil the reading of the book with more about the story, will just say that Deanna Chase is a great story teller, she creates visual scenes that unfold under reader's eyes, the characters gain in depth all through the book and the dialogues are witty.
I will give below some of the most beautiful (for me) paragraphs.
"when we offer our art without that soul-mate connection, we consciously give something of ourselves without it being pulled from us. I'm not saying our soul-mate gifts aren't pure or less worthy, Just different. Like when I sing with Cadan, the effect is what the audience needs or wants. But when I sing by myself, it's an extension of what's going on inside me."
"When Cadan and I were together, we had plenty of fire and intensity fueled by our connection. But with Seth there is something else. When we're together, there's a tenderness combined with heat and raw emotion that doesn't have anything to do with mates or magic. We're two people desperate to know one another. By choice, not by fate. And it seems more real."
"No matter what happens with Lucy, she''l always be in my heart. Her presence in my life has given me what Elsa's death stole from me. The desire to create just for me."
"Sure. I love Cadan. I always will, but what I feel for Seth is more tangible. It;s a different kind of connection. Meaningful on a basic human level, not a mystical one like what I have with Cadan.:
So, you, reader, would you chose fate or be in charge of your destiny?
I highly recommend this beautiful book and look forward to reading more books by Deanna Chase.
Young, I read about a myth saying people were spheres and the gods, jealous on their perfection, split the spheres and threw them on the earth, ever since we look for the soul mate, the half of the splintered sphere... That is what the introduction to the book made me think about and the book, really, doesn't disappoint.
"In an alternate reality everyone really does only have one true soul mate. And that connection has a magical element that affects not only the couple, but the people around them" is the word to the reader in the beginning of the book.
Lucy is a talented singer, she has found her soul mate, but is questioning it "Dad said life was like the vast ocean. Turbulent, beautiful, calming, devastating. And he said to truly live, one needed all those things". The recent death of her father and the deep connection with him, the only person that unconditionally loved her, along with her soul mate's- Cadan -interest in her related to only their music and financial success, his manipulation and cheating, her strained relation with her mother, who abandoned her father and Lucy when she found her own soul mate (a guy who seems lacking any notable quality) make Lucy wonder if she should keep her relationship with Cadan in the name of the mystic connection which has a magical impact on the music they create and play, with the high price of losing herself or she should take the harder, painful, lonely way of severing the connection, knowing that a part of her will always be with her soul mate and the chances to find another love are minimal.
Seth, on the other hand, lost his soul mate, E/Elsa, and, with her, his creativity- Elsa had a terrible car accident while bringing an inebriated Seth back home from an evening out with his friends. Astoundingly for both Lucy and Seth, after a mind blowing, first sight, wild attraction, they grow attached to each other, become friends and end by falling in love. It is funny the reverse way their relationship evolves, from wow sex to growing emotion,scary involvement and deep love. I won't spoil the reading of the book with more about the story, will just say that Deanna Chase is a great story teller, she creates visual scenes that unfold under reader's eyes, the characters gain in depth all through the book and the dialogues are witty.
I will give below some of the most beautiful (for me) paragraphs.
"when we offer our art without that soul-mate connection, we consciously give something of ourselves without it being pulled from us. I'm not saying our soul-mate gifts aren't pure or less worthy, Just different. Like when I sing with Cadan, the effect is what the audience needs or wants. But when I sing by myself, it's an extension of what's going on inside me."
"When Cadan and I were together, we had plenty of fire and intensity fueled by our connection. But with Seth there is something else. When we're together, there's a tenderness combined with heat and raw emotion that doesn't have anything to do with mates or magic. We're two people desperate to know one another. By choice, not by fate. And it seems more real."
"No matter what happens with Lucy, she''l always be in my heart. Her presence in my life has given me what Elsa's death stole from me. The desire to create just for me."
"Sure. I love Cadan. I always will, but what I feel for Seth is more tangible. It;s a different kind of connection. Meaningful on a basic human level, not a mystical one like what I have with Cadan.:
So, you, reader, would you chose fate or be in charge of your destiny?
I highly recommend this beautiful book and look forward to reading more books by Deanna Chase.
January 10, 2015
I received an e-copy of this book from the publishers on NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
I have recently been finding myself dancing between contemporary and paranormal reads (young adult, new adult or... adult adult). This was an acquired read that I found interesting. I have noticed an influx in musical contemporary romance novels. Rocker romance is being the new fad. I had to check it out and this seemed a good book to dip my toe into that particular pool of popularity.
Lucy is reeling. She has just lost her father, has a mother who is way too involved in her personal life, a career that has lost all it's appeal, and a soul mate who lies to get his way and cheats. She needs a break from it all. She needs to get away and be by herself so she can remember what she loves about singing. She returns home after catching her soul mate in a compromising position with some groupies after a show and starts to pick up the pieces of her life. She reconnects with her best friend who begs Lucy to sing at her birthday party. It is there that she meets exotic and dangerously handsome, Seth.
Seth is known around town as the guy who lost his soul mate tragically and also as the small town's lady's man. Seth jumps from bed to bed not staying with a woman longer than one night of passion. He doesn't see the point. He doesn't want anyone else. He has really never had a woman catch his interest, until he meets Lucy. Not only is she beautiful, but she's quick witted and a fantastic singer. He is bewitched by her from the beginning. He starts to let his guard down more and more around the girl, despite knowing she already has a soul mate and that what they have is just a passing attraction that will burn out once she goes back to Caden.
Seth and Lucy struggle with their devastating pasts and their overwhelming future. In a world where you are destined to be with the other half of your soul, can two people still manage to make it work?
I liked Seth a little more than Lucy. Seth seemed to have a hard time with his past and coming to grips with everything but he made a really strong effort. Lucy was clearly not as strong and flip-flopped back and forth. In some ways this made the story more realistic. One expects the woman to be more emotionally driven while the man is determined and headstrong. I liked their chemistry together. They meshed well and I found myself rooting for them.
This book does not read like a typical contemporary romance. This is an entirely new world created where soul mates are common knowledge and everyone has one eventually. Once a person finds their soul mate they are destined to be with that person for the rest of their lives. It's a slightly dystopia-like feel to it without it being such a strong change that it can fall into that genre. At first I didn't realize it was supposed to be a new world way of thinking. I just thought the main characters were being cheesy when they kept talking about soul mates. But it was a worldwide accepted concept in the book. That makes a difference. Trust me.
Defining Destiny is unlike any book I have read before. It combines an element of fantasy with the classic contemporary genre to make something completely new and fresh. Deanna Chase did a fabulous job combining two uncomplimentary writing styles into a dynamite story of love, loss, and following one's heart.
Review Posted on: http://www.ladybugliterature.blogspot...
October 24, 2014
4.5 stars
This review and others can be found on http://www.bookishtreasures.blogspot.com
This book was really enjoyable and actually better than I was expecting which is always nice. Defining Destiny is a New Adult paranormal romance but is very light in the paranormal elements and reads more like a contemporary novel most of the time.
In Lucy's world everyone has one soul mate, a person who you cant help but love no matter what and are inexplicably drawn to. Unfortunately for Lucy her soul mate isn't the most trustworthy guy and after one betrayal too many she leaves him to go back home and think things through.
I absolutely loved Lucy, I liked how she was determined not to settle for a bad relationship just because someone is her soul mate as she doesn't want to end up like her mother. She has a great, fiery personality though she does have a tendency at times to run off without asking questions first.
This book had a love triangle that I thought was really well done. The main focus of Defining Destiny is about Lucy's choice to forgive her soul mate Caden and do what everyone expects by returning to him or to do the near unthinkable and turn her back on her soul mate for good and to be with another guy.
Seth is an amazing guy. He undergone the terrible experience of losing his soul mate in an accident that he blames himself for and now knows that he is destined to be alone for the rest of his life. Lucy and Seth work incredibly well together and other than the fact they aren't soul mates appear to be the perfect couple. I especially loved that throughout the book we got to see Lucy pull Seth from out of his shell as he gradually started to fully live again.
You then also have Caden, the smooth talking rock star who Lucy can't help but being in love with even though he is egotistical, self-absorbed, and has lost sight of their relationship. We see many different sides to him throughout the book and it is often hard to tell if his intentions are good or not.
I liked how this book ended. It was very satisfying, wrapped things up nicely and I was very pleased with Lucy's final choice. Overall this was a fantastic read. Great romance novel with a small magical twist just to give it something special and different. I would definitely recommend Defining Destiny and I am looking forwards to reading more books by Deanna Chase.
*I received a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. This has not affected my opinions or rating in any way.*
This review and others can be found on http://www.bookishtreasures.blogspot.com
This book was really enjoyable and actually better than I was expecting which is always nice. Defining Destiny is a New Adult paranormal romance but is very light in the paranormal elements and reads more like a contemporary novel most of the time.
In Lucy's world everyone has one soul mate, a person who you cant help but love no matter what and are inexplicably drawn to. Unfortunately for Lucy her soul mate isn't the most trustworthy guy and after one betrayal too many she leaves him to go back home and think things through.
I absolutely loved Lucy, I liked how she was determined not to settle for a bad relationship just because someone is her soul mate as she doesn't want to end up like her mother. She has a great, fiery personality though she does have a tendency at times to run off without asking questions first.
This book had a love triangle that I thought was really well done. The main focus of Defining Destiny is about Lucy's choice to forgive her soul mate Caden and do what everyone expects by returning to him or to do the near unthinkable and turn her back on her soul mate for good and to be with another guy.
Seth is an amazing guy. He undergone the terrible experience of losing his soul mate in an accident that he blames himself for and now knows that he is destined to be alone for the rest of his life. Lucy and Seth work incredibly well together and other than the fact they aren't soul mates appear to be the perfect couple. I especially loved that throughout the book we got to see Lucy pull Seth from out of his shell as he gradually started to fully live again.
You then also have Caden, the smooth talking rock star who Lucy can't help but being in love with even though he is egotistical, self-absorbed, and has lost sight of their relationship. We see many different sides to him throughout the book and it is often hard to tell if his intentions are good or not.
I liked how this book ended. It was very satisfying, wrapped things up nicely and I was very pleased with Lucy's final choice. Overall this was a fantastic read. Great romance novel with a small magical twist just to give it something special and different. I would definitely recommend Defining Destiny and I am looking forwards to reading more books by Deanna Chase.
*I received a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. This has not affected my opinions or rating in any way.*
April 8, 2016
So torn about this book.
I knew something was afoot when the author included a little letter to the reader about alternate reality where everyone has a soul mate.
What she neglected to tell us is that the soul mates we meet in this one are dicks... or dead.
And I'm really not sure what the significance of the soul mate thread that was woven throughout the story really meant. In this alternate reality it's possible (apparently) to fall in love and even have relationships/children with someone who isn't your soulmate. Which was a little confusing, and I ended up just thinking what's the point to all this. The author tries to introduce a little mysticism by saying that magical things happen when mates get together, but frankly that's a bit tainted by the death and dickiness.
Lucy's in a band with her mate Caden who is a dick. He sleeps around on her and it turns out he forges her name on some music contracts AND steals a song about her dead father and publishes it under his own name. See? A dick.
So she quits and waits to be sued for breach. Goes back home to deal with the death of her father and meets Seth who lost his mate in a car accident last year. There's an attraction but what's the point when his mate is dead and she's got one even if he's a dick because "they all go back to their mates." I still don't understand this. Then we meet her mother who is a piece of work and who left Lucy's dad when she found her own mate Randy who is also a dick. There's a pattern here.
So poor Lucy is all mixed up and grieving and feeling her way through her issues. And then there's Seth who's an artist who has lost his mojo upon the death of his mate... until he meets Lucy.
Also, no one in this book owns an umbrella or raincoat so they're always drenched and getting naked and sometimes sleeping with each other.
While the story itself was sufficiently compelling, the soul mate thing muddied the waters. I liked the style of writing and I enjoyed Lucy a bit... she could have been more developed.
I won't read book 2 if it's more rain and soul mates who are dicks.
I knew something was afoot when the author included a little letter to the reader about alternate reality where everyone has a soul mate.
What she neglected to tell us is that the soul mates we meet in this one are dicks... or dead.
And I'm really not sure what the significance of the soul mate thread that was woven throughout the story really meant. In this alternate reality it's possible (apparently) to fall in love and even have relationships/children with someone who isn't your soulmate. Which was a little confusing, and I ended up just thinking what's the point to all this. The author tries to introduce a little mysticism by saying that magical things happen when mates get together, but frankly that's a bit tainted by the death and dickiness.
Lucy's in a band with her mate Caden who is a dick. He sleeps around on her and it turns out he forges her name on some music contracts AND steals a song about her dead father and publishes it under his own name. See? A dick.
So she quits and waits to be sued for breach. Goes back home to deal with the death of her father and meets Seth who lost his mate in a car accident last year. There's an attraction but what's the point when his mate is dead and she's got one even if he's a dick because "they all go back to their mates." I still don't understand this. Then we meet her mother who is a piece of work and who left Lucy's dad when she found her own mate Randy who is also a dick. There's a pattern here.
So poor Lucy is all mixed up and grieving and feeling her way through her issues. And then there's Seth who's an artist who has lost his mojo upon the death of his mate... until he meets Lucy.
Also, no one in this book owns an umbrella or raincoat so they're always drenched and getting naked and sometimes sleeping with each other.
While the story itself was sufficiently compelling, the soul mate thing muddied the waters. I liked the style of writing and I enjoyed Lucy a bit... she could have been more developed.
I won't read book 2 if it's more rain and soul mates who are dicks.
January 12, 2015
As I recently became one of Deanna Chase's new review member in exchange for an honest review. Of course, I was stoked to be given the honor to do such a thing. Although I do love the rocker types, I was actually skeptical of starting it at first. The last few I have read have been major let downs. But I must say she did a good job on this book. I fell in complete crushing over Seth. If only I met my real life size guy like him... sigh...The main problem I had with it was it was a bit too rushed. I wish I had more detail on the past days to really get a feel for other relationships such as her mom to understand things better. I could never really grasp the soul mate thing they had going on. To me soulmates should be some sort of connection that makes the other person better. I just don't understand how Cadan could be a complete jackrabbit and for her call that a type of love. The only thing he deserved was a good punch to balls. I was really sad to see it come to a close. I believe Lucy and Seth's story has so much more to be told. So many questions that are running through my head. I know the next book is about Jax which is exciting to read, but I really hope she writes another book that may tie them all up together because I'd really love to see how it all ends.
For anyone who may be in limbo about reading this book, it's a good book. It's definately worth your time to read. :)
For anyone who may be in limbo about reading this book, it's a good book. It's definately worth your time to read. :)
February 9, 2014
*I received a free ARC of Defining Destiny from Xpresso Booktours in exchange of an honest review*
Full review will be posted on my blog (un)Conventional Bookviews on February 25th for my stop on the Blogtour.
Refreshing and cute story, set in a different world than ours, with fun characters who have to make some tough decisions.
Full review will be posted on my blog (un)Conventional Bookviews on February 25th for my stop on the Blogtour.
Refreshing and cute story, set in a different world than ours, with fun characters who have to make some tough decisions.
March 1, 2014
3 1/2 Stars
See Review on February 28 at:
For more reviews, Free E-books and Giveaways
See Review on February 28 at:
For more reviews, Free E-books and Giveaways
April 9, 2015
This did get annoying a lot of the time as the soul mate is referred to repetitively , which just seemed immature really I just didn't get it .
September 14, 2015
I really like this story and first read of Deanna chase
July 2, 2016
A cute, easy read. Review to come...maybe.
May 11, 2020
This story was so good! And it was a unique love story. This story is set in a modern world but there are soul mates. It's not just an idea, it's a fact. Each person has their one true soul mate. But this story isn't about finding that soul mate. It's about finding that soul mate and choosing to find love on your own. Lucy is betrayed by her soul mate. Seth lost his in a tragedy. They meet while both of them are hurting. Their one night stand turns into so much more. More than either of them were looking for. But you can't stop love, no matter how hard you try. Both are confused and when Lucy's soul mate comes back into the picture looking like a change man, it makes everything complicated. This was also a story about letting go of the past and finding who you really are. It's a beautiful romance. And these narrators voices give this story a sort of magic. I felt like I was watching a movie. Plus Andi Arndy is one of my favorite narrators and she didn't disappoint as Lucy. Jeffrey Kafer was a perfect Seth too! I was hooked from the start to the finish. I just loved the whole aspect of the whole story! The story had me stumped at times. I didn't know which way the characters would go. I am so excited to learn that there is a book two with Lucy's best friend Jax, who I loved. Another great thing about this story was the supporting characters. I could see this being a series with more books and I am sure I'd be hooked on each one. I can't suggest this book enough to romance fans. It is a story to be experienced.
August 20, 2017
This novel is quite superficial and flawed. Apart from the fact that it would have been a lot better if the characters had been older, the main fault is that it states as a presupposition from the beginning that the world in which this story takes place believes unshakeably in the idea that you will only ever have one soul mate in life. Setting that as an axiom from the start is a "get out of jail free" ticket so that the author can just duck out of exploring all sorts of areas that could easily have been gone into in greater depth, for example, about why Lucy's Mum is pressuring her to stick with Cadan.
The musical world is not described at all convincingly. You don't get any idea of the other members of the band.
It's just all about the spark which some call love and others call lust between Lucy and Seth and the betrayal and controlling behaviour of Cadan.
You're glad the true lovers get together in the end and the kinks shake out of the plot but this is like an outline for a proper novel which is never really developed. It's as if the author wants to get from the beginning to the end (which you already have at the beginning) in the shortest possible emotional space.
The musical world is not described at all convincingly. You don't get any idea of the other members of the band.
It's just all about the spark which some call love and others call lust between Lucy and Seth and the betrayal and controlling behaviour of Cadan.
You're glad the true lovers get together in the end and the kinks shake out of the plot but this is like an outline for a proper novel which is never really developed. It's as if the author wants to get from the beginning to the end (which you already have at the beginning) in the shortest possible emotional space.
April 28, 2020
This is a struggle of a story. I liked it but there is the whole soul mate issue. Should you always end up with your soul mate? It’s a tough question tackled in this story. I really liked the whole idea that mates share the same magical talent. What a cool idea! I haven’t read that one before. The characters are lively. Lucy is a sexy singer with a soulful voice. She and her bestie get into quite a few situations. Seth is a tattoo artist and has a shop with his friend. He Has a sexy smile that woos all the women. Lucy is running from her past and Seth is trying to forget his.
My only wish was that there was some explanation for the whole mate thing. I just thought this was a regular book then they started talking about mates and soulmates as well as Magic for each person. I was floundering about figuring it out.
I listened to this on audio. Andi Arndt and Jeffrey Kafer did a wonderful job narrating.
My only wish was that there was some explanation for the whole mate thing. I just thought this was a regular book then they started talking about mates and soulmates as well as Magic for each person. I was floundering about figuring it out.
I listened to this on audio. Andi Arndt and Jeffrey Kafer did a wonderful job narrating.
August 18, 2021
3.5 stars
This is a book that I picked up for free and it’s been on my TBR for awhile, I’m glad I took a chance to check it out.
The author includes a note at the beginning of the book highlighting that Defining Destiny is set in an alternate reality and that helps some of the situations make sense.
Lucy and Seth are likeable characters, but this is more of a plot driven story, so we don’t get super deep dives into who they are.
An engaging story, this also has messages that I think are important, especially for the YA audience. The biggest is the idea that love should make you feel cherished and special, not be a burden. A close second is the idea that you have to stand up for yourself and it’s okay to remove toxic relationships.
After reading Defining Destiny, I am curious to see more from this author/series.
This is a book that I picked up for free and it’s been on my TBR for awhile, I’m glad I took a chance to check it out.
The author includes a note at the beginning of the book highlighting that Defining Destiny is set in an alternate reality and that helps some of the situations make sense.
Lucy and Seth are likeable characters, but this is more of a plot driven story, so we don’t get super deep dives into who they are.
An engaging story, this also has messages that I think are important, especially for the YA audience. The biggest is the idea that love should make you feel cherished and special, not be a burden. A close second is the idea that you have to stand up for yourself and it’s okay to remove toxic relationships.
After reading Defining Destiny, I am curious to see more from this author/series.
May 29, 2020
In this story, being someone's soulmate, means when together, the magic happens. The creative bond is always there. Does it mean that you're destined to be their forever? What if one betrays that trust? Lucy realized, even though a person may be a soulmate, being with someone, is a choice of the heart not bound by fate.
I enjoyed listening to this story. Deanna Chase develops Lucy from a young woman that doesn't have control over her life and career, to a strong, confident woman who finally takes charge and makes decisions on what's best for her.
Andi Arndt and Jeffrey Kafer are outstanding narrators. Their performance is fantastic. They gave each character their own voice and personality. I was gifted this audio and offered my honest review.
I enjoyed listening to this story. Deanna Chase develops Lucy from a young woman that doesn't have control over her life and career, to a strong, confident woman who finally takes charge and makes decisions on what's best for her.
Andi Arndt and Jeffrey Kafer are outstanding narrators. Their performance is fantastic. They gave each character their own voice and personality. I was gifted this audio and offered my honest review.
July 15, 2017
This was really not a bad book. I must say I was fascinated by the "alternate reality" and "soulmate" tie but was actually let down by the book. there may be a special connection between the "soulmates" but that does not mean their lives are perfect and they will love that person forever. if so why bother ? that is not any different from our reality. Lucy and Seth's story is sweet and heartfelt but the love triangle with Caleb is a turn off. also Lucy and jax's envy of each other is pretty petty. all in all this book was not bad but a bit of a let down. only 2 stars cause I am picky.
note: I got this book for free.
note: I got this book for free.
September 4, 2025
Every book I've ever read that mentions soul mates, has usually been about Shifters (Wolves, Dragons, etc), but this story was about humans. Her decision at the beginning of the book, showed her as a strong woman with self respect and dignity. However, afterwards, she becomes wishy-washy when it comes to her interfering mother and her so called soul mate. I have a problem believing he is her soul mate after what he does to her. Seth, the new guy seems more like her true soul mate. I think the story is meant to be about second chances and about loving and respecting yourself enough to not let others walk all over you. At the end, I was happy with her final decision and enjoyed the ending.
April 30, 2019
No matter how hard I tried, I just couldn't get into this story. Part of it was the underlying theme of "mates" which was never explained. Lucy and Cadan are mates, as are Seth and his past love, but it's never really explained why this is of such import to the story. Does being a person's mate mean they are never allowed to love someone else? Is it part of a paranormal world? I wanted answers to these questions and never got them, which meant the book never really "finished" in my mind, and I wasn't rooting for the HEA like I normally would have.
May 25, 2020
Read 5/24/2020
What I love about this story is how the mystical aspect is not front and center. It's as natural as eye color. I truly appreciate this not being another story about a girl who discovers her immense powers and for as clumsy as she is, she can really kick ass and fight like a ninja. I do love those stories, too, but this was so refreshing! However, I couldn't relate with this story. Maybe I'm getting too old for younger female leading characters? It was entertaining and a fast read.
What I love about this story is how the mystical aspect is not front and center. It's as natural as eye color. I truly appreciate this not being another story about a girl who discovers her immense powers and for as clumsy as she is, she can really kick ass and fight like a ninja. I do love those stories, too, but this was so refreshing! However, I couldn't relate with this story. Maybe I'm getting too old for younger female leading characters? It was entertaining and a fast read.
November 11, 2019
This started out as a strange read for me but ended up getting into the story. Lucy Moore is a singer/songwriter who had been singing with her soul mate until she caught him cheating and found out all the lies he was doing behind her back. She goes home to her Dad's house and meets Seth, self confirmed womanizer. They hit it off and the struggle for both of them losing their soul mate make for an interesting story.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 154 reviews