What do you think?
Rate this book
Try Again #1
Wherever You Will Go
Brooke Willis had everything she ever wanted: a happy marriage, volunteer placement at the art gallery, and the promise of starting a family with the man of her dreams.
Saxon Reed had everything he ever thought he needed: a successful career, nice cars, expensive apartment, and more money than he knew what to do with.
After losing her husband Brooke insists on taking over his company to keep his dreams alive. Struggling in an industry she knows nothing about, Brooke turns to Saxon, her husband’s best friend and business partner, for guidance and support. Their mutual grief, and Saxon’s need to look after his best friend’s wife, creates a connection beyond just business.
Can Brooke take over the company and find a new life without saying goodbye to the past? Can Saxon protect and care for Brooke without scaring her away?
What happens when your heart doesn’t listen to your head? When lines are crossed and boundaries are pushed?
“Life goes on, whether you choose to move forward and take a chance in the unknown or stay behind, locked in the past, thinking of what could've been. I don’t want to live in the past anymore. I’m so lonely; there’s nothing for me here.”
Saxon Reed had everything he ever thought he needed: a successful career, nice cars, expensive apartment, and more money than he knew what to do with.
After losing her husband Brooke insists on taking over his company to keep his dreams alive. Struggling in an industry she knows nothing about, Brooke turns to Saxon, her husband’s best friend and business partner, for guidance and support. Their mutual grief, and Saxon’s need to look after his best friend’s wife, creates a connection beyond just business.
Can Brooke take over the company and find a new life without saying goodbye to the past? Can Saxon protect and care for Brooke without scaring her away?
What happens when your heart doesn’t listen to your head? When lines are crossed and boundaries are pushed?
“Life goes on, whether you choose to move forward and take a chance in the unknown or stay behind, locked in the past, thinking of what could've been. I don’t want to live in the past anymore. I’m so lonely; there’s nothing for me here.”
ebook
First published July 1, 2014
66 people are currently reading
1306 people want to read
About the author
Stephanie Smith
6 books142 followersStephanie is a Happily Ever After addict.
Loving mushy romance, books, movies and music since she was young, and constantly daydreaming up stories and plots, Stephanie decided to put them on paper.
Living in South Australia with her own alpha male and two princesses she spends her days reading, writing and playing with the girls out on their property.
Loving mushy romance, books, movies and music since she was young, and constantly daydreaming up stories and plots, Stephanie decided to put them on paper.
Living in South Australia with her own alpha male and two princesses she spends her days reading, writing and playing with the girls out on their property.
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 111 reviews
November 16, 2014
Title: Wherever You Will Go
Series: Try Again #1
Author: Stephanie Smith
Release Date: August 7, 2014
Rating: 3.75 stars
Cliffhanger:. No
HEA:
Wherever You Will Go is heart wrenching story about grief, letting go and opening your heart for the second time. Learning to love and give – finding happiness after thinking it’s not possible. This story is moving, romantic and heavy on emotions. It’s a journey full of obstacles and tears.
At the beginning of the book we meet Brooke, our main heroine, who is happily married to Nate. Their love is strong, beautiful and passionate. It’s everything every woman desires. The same day Brooke and Nate plan to start a family, her second half dies in car crash. That accident took not only Nate’s life but also Brooke’s will to live…
While she hurts in the most agonizing way, after losing her mate, Saxon, Nate’s best friend aches in the similar way. They both are lonely and broken.
However, Saxon has a secret – he always ‘liked’ Brooke. From the moment he laid his eyes on his buddy’s girl, Sax was in love. For ten years he’s done everything in his willpower to stop feeling this way, but he just couldn’t.
Now that Nate is dead and Saxon spends even more time with Brooke. This is his chance to make a move. But will Brooke learn to love and trust again?
What was between Nate and Brooke was sweet and heart-warming, the feelings between her and Sax out of this world hot and passionate and the despair that connected main heroes very strong. Wherever You Will Go is packed with feelings. Complete roller coaster of sorrow, loneliness and desire. I was mesmerized by it.
On the other hand, I had few issues with Smith’s novel; I didn’t really approve of Brooke’s choices and mostly her behaviour was pissing me off. Although, I understood she was hurting, she was very selfish and upset many other people. It was sad to see how she treated Saxon and his feelings.
I also felt some things between the main couple were too rushed; they didn’t have time to exactly ‘click together’. The idea of them together was better than the actual execution of it.
Still, I liked this story! Stephanie Smith hit me with edgy romance and tear jerking suspense. Her book was charged with emotions, which I can’t deny. Fans of heart pounding, emotional roller coasters with occasional ups and downs will devour Brooke and Saxon’s story.
*ARC copy provided by the author, Stephanie Smith, in exchange for honest review *
FOLLOW SMOKIN HOT BOOK BLOG ON:
April 17, 2015
Sooo... I tried. I really did. I made it up to 75%. Granted, I had to put it aside, once but I picked it back up, thinking it was me. But... I'm sorry to say it wasn't. It wasn't the book either. It was the heroine. *I swear, heroines shall be the death of me*
Brooke has lost her husband and best friend. We got a glimpse of her life with him before tragedy struck and yes, he truly was an amazing person and he loved her very much. But she lost him and, in the process, herself as well. I get that, I do. I get pain, excruciating pain that guts you and doesn't let you breathe. You spiral downwards and crash. Hard.
But she wasn't the only one in pain. There was Saxon, Brooke's husband's best friend and business partner. He too was grieving, he too had lost. After a few months, he finally tried reconnecting with Brooke. One thing leads to another, she gets the wake-up call, goes to work in her husband's stead. That's about... 50% of the book. I liked it, I did. I liked Saxon, I even got Brooke and where she was coming from. But, unfortunately, it went downhill from there. Why? Because Saxon has always loved Brooke and when he proposes they be more, what does she do? Accepts, of course but with one condition. Nobody was to know.
There you have it, that is what made me put it down. Her selfishness, her blindness. Her bad excuses. I picked it up but threw in the towel, when she admitted to herself that yes, she was using him but didn't care. I had no desire to reading more. And I'm so, so sorry because I liked the style, I liked Saxon, he's such a sweet, sweet man, willing to keep his feelings to himself and he's so self-less.
So this book, once again, is a DNF. The 2 1/2 stars are for Saxon. The concept of always taking, taking and taking but never giving back, not even a little, bothers me to no end. But this review, in no certain way means the author is awful or anything. Just the heroine. My beef is with her.
***Copy given in exchange of honest review***
Brooke has lost her husband and best friend. We got a glimpse of her life with him before tragedy struck and yes, he truly was an amazing person and he loved her very much. But she lost him and, in the process, herself as well. I get that, I do. I get pain, excruciating pain that guts you and doesn't let you breathe. You spiral downwards and crash. Hard.
But she wasn't the only one in pain. There was Saxon, Brooke's husband's best friend and business partner. He too was grieving, he too had lost. After a few months, he finally tried reconnecting with Brooke. One thing leads to another, she gets the wake-up call, goes to work in her husband's stead. That's about... 50% of the book. I liked it, I did. I liked Saxon, I even got Brooke and where she was coming from. But, unfortunately, it went downhill from there. Why? Because Saxon has always loved Brooke and when he proposes they be more, what does she do? Accepts, of course but with one condition. Nobody was to know.
There you have it, that is what made me put it down. Her selfishness, her blindness. Her bad excuses. I picked it up but threw in the towel, when she admitted to herself that yes, she was using him but didn't care. I had no desire to reading more. And I'm so, so sorry because I liked the style, I liked Saxon, he's such a sweet, sweet man, willing to keep his feelings to himself and he's so self-less.
So this book, once again, is a DNF. The 2 1/2 stars are for Saxon. The concept of always taking, taking and taking but never giving back, not even a little, bothers me to no end. But this review, in no certain way means the author is awful or anything. Just the heroine. My beef is with her.
***Copy given in exchange of honest review***
December 18, 2017
When Brooke's husband Nate Willis died, it wasn't just a part of her that died, too. It seemed like her word had stopped to a standstill and Brooke wasn't able to move on. Devastated and even desperate for the child they both had dreamed of, Brooke was trapped in her world of self-pity, self-absorbed miserly life and for three months, she wouldn't let anyone in. Until their best friend Saxon finally confronted her and made her see what a wreck she had been.
Saxon had been friends with Nate forever, even had lived with him and was treated as part of the family. When he died, he felt responsible for everything Nate had left, the company, his employees, and his wife, Brooke. Little did they know that Saxon had always been there for them, for her. Because he'd been in love with her ever since.
Wherever You Will Go is an emotional roller coaster, the first few pages immediately made my heart ache. Refusing to go out of the shadows and dismissing everyone's help really did a big number on Brooke and dug a very large hole in her heart. The reader is left feeling blue and sympathetic to the widow, although her reluctance to move on can bring cringe and torture.
The story picks up the pace though on the second part of the book, and Saxon proves to be a worthy hero and competent partner. I love how he feels so protective of Brooke, how he thinks with his head and not only with his heart. I also love that Nate (the dead husband) was a good man worth remembering and giving tribute to. It's just fitting that Nate fills the void he himself has left open when he died thus giving Saxon and Brooke the happy ending they deserve.
And lastly, I love love love that this song by The Calling made a big impact to the story. It was also one of my favorite songs too, and when I am about to finish reading this book, it was only appropriate that I played that song on loop until the end. Best soundtrack ever! Kudos to Stephanie Smith for a beautifully written story about second chances and unconditional love between friends!
Saxon had been friends with Nate forever, even had lived with him and was treated as part of the family. When he died, he felt responsible for everything Nate had left, the company, his employees, and his wife, Brooke. Little did they know that Saxon had always been there for them, for her. Because he'd been in love with her ever since.
Wherever You Will Go is an emotional roller coaster, the first few pages immediately made my heart ache. Refusing to go out of the shadows and dismissing everyone's help really did a big number on Brooke and dug a very large hole in her heart. The reader is left feeling blue and sympathetic to the widow, although her reluctance to move on can bring cringe and torture.
The story picks up the pace though on the second part of the book, and Saxon proves to be a worthy hero and competent partner. I love how he feels so protective of Brooke, how he thinks with his head and not only with his heart. I also love that Nate (the dead husband) was a good man worth remembering and giving tribute to. It's just fitting that Nate fills the void he himself has left open when he died thus giving Saxon and Brooke the happy ending they deserve.
And lastly, I love love love that this song by The Calling made a big impact to the story. It was also one of my favorite songs too, and when I am about to finish reading this book, it was only appropriate that I played that song on loop until the end. Best soundtrack ever! Kudos to Stephanie Smith for a beautifully written story about second chances and unconditional love between friends!
August 16, 2014
Wherever You Will Go by Stephanie Smith
3.5 Stars
In the opening of this novel, you have a married couple so in love with each other and reveling in that love you can feel it ooze out of the pages of this story. They are so very happy, so very connected and have decided to start trying to make a baby. This led to a very nice first love scene. I knew where the story was headed but I smiled anyway as I continued to read. The beginning of the second chapter is her at his funeral and the devastation you feel for her as the pall bearers carry the casket. You hear what she's seeing and thinking in her mind. The numbness, heartbreak and the hopelessness.
This story is about Brooke, Nate and Saxon. Brooke and Nate are the married couple and Saxon is Nate's best friend. They had been best friends since high school. Nate's family accepted Saxon into theirs, no questions asked. Saxon and Nate built their investment banking firm from the ground up together. Unbeknownst to Nate, Saxon has always had feelings for Brooke. Feelings he's never expressed nor acted on. He just kind of pulled away enough so that these feelings didn't change their friendship. Now his best friend is gone and he has to face his own loss and grief while watching Brooke fall apart.
The pacing of this story is over about a year's time. During that time period, we see Brooke return to the land of the living, deciding to try and fit into the company her husband started. She tries to keep moving forward even if a part of her heart is missing. The more time she spend with Saxon, the closer they become, which leads to an intimate relationship. They both have to deal with the guilt and this guilt is stifling. Nate, the deceased husband, still looms large. Family coming to terms with Brooke and Saxon's new found relationship isn't easy either.
There was so much I liked about this book but let me tell about what I didn't like first, so we end on a positive note. I liked both lead characters but never felt their connection on anything but a physical level. I tried to but just couldn't. This is classified as a romance novel and their romance never clicked for me. The romance Brooke had with Nate was real and beautiful, which left my heart heavy as I knew where this was headed. Now, the things I liked were: the writing style, the emotions this style invoked in me and the acceptance toward the end of the book. I got teary eyed when Brooke finally realized that she didn't have to choose between the two men she loved. She could have the love she did for both of them. Loving them both didn't mean she was betraying her husband. Even in the future, she could take Nate with her, wherever she went. Saxon was a good guy too. He loved both Nate and Brooke so very much. Many times while reading this at night, I would reach over and touch my husband's hair and panic at the thought of one day he wouldn't be there. I wouldn't be able to smell him on our sheets, our touch his skin or share more of our life together. For that reason alone, for anyone who has ever been in love, read this book and then love that person like there's no tomorrow.
Reviewed by Naughty Book Snitch Kay.
This book was given by the author in exchange for an honest review.
3.5 Stars
In the opening of this novel, you have a married couple so in love with each other and reveling in that love you can feel it ooze out of the pages of this story. They are so very happy, so very connected and have decided to start trying to make a baby. This led to a very nice first love scene. I knew where the story was headed but I smiled anyway as I continued to read. The beginning of the second chapter is her at his funeral and the devastation you feel for her as the pall bearers carry the casket. You hear what she's seeing and thinking in her mind. The numbness, heartbreak and the hopelessness.
This story is about Brooke, Nate and Saxon. Brooke and Nate are the married couple and Saxon is Nate's best friend. They had been best friends since high school. Nate's family accepted Saxon into theirs, no questions asked. Saxon and Nate built their investment banking firm from the ground up together. Unbeknownst to Nate, Saxon has always had feelings for Brooke. Feelings he's never expressed nor acted on. He just kind of pulled away enough so that these feelings didn't change their friendship. Now his best friend is gone and he has to face his own loss and grief while watching Brooke fall apart.
The pacing of this story is over about a year's time. During that time period, we see Brooke return to the land of the living, deciding to try and fit into the company her husband started. She tries to keep moving forward even if a part of her heart is missing. The more time she spend with Saxon, the closer they become, which leads to an intimate relationship. They both have to deal with the guilt and this guilt is stifling. Nate, the deceased husband, still looms large. Family coming to terms with Brooke and Saxon's new found relationship isn't easy either.
There was so much I liked about this book but let me tell about what I didn't like first, so we end on a positive note. I liked both lead characters but never felt their connection on anything but a physical level. I tried to but just couldn't. This is classified as a romance novel and their romance never clicked for me. The romance Brooke had with Nate was real and beautiful, which left my heart heavy as I knew where this was headed. Now, the things I liked were: the writing style, the emotions this style invoked in me and the acceptance toward the end of the book. I got teary eyed when Brooke finally realized that she didn't have to choose between the two men she loved. She could have the love she did for both of them. Loving them both didn't mean she was betraying her husband. Even in the future, she could take Nate with her, wherever she went. Saxon was a good guy too. He loved both Nate and Brooke so very much. Many times while reading this at night, I would reach over and touch my husband's hair and panic at the thought of one day he wouldn't be there. I wouldn't be able to smell him on our sheets, our touch his skin or share more of our life together. For that reason alone, for anyone who has ever been in love, read this book and then love that person like there's no tomorrow.
Reviewed by Naughty Book Snitch Kay.
This book was given by the author in exchange for an honest review.
August 7, 2014
You know from the synopsis that our leading lady, Brooke, was going to be put through Hell with losing her husband, Nate, and then trying to pick herself back up.
You also know that Nate's best friend, Saxon is the one to be there for her.
What you don't know is how emotional and heart breaking the writing was. You don't know how well Brooke's journey from happily married, to grieving widow, to someone who was rebuilding their life and learning to move on with her life was detailed and left you feeling the same emotions as her.
Saxon's need to look after and help Brooke goes far beyond that of a business partner or even best friend duties and it was endearing to see the changes in him from his bad boy, love 'em and leave 'em ways.
All in all it was a rollercoaster of a story. There were sweet parts, there were hide under the duvet depressing parts. It has an outcome I was pleased with and coveted for Brooke.
I loved the use of music throughout the book and Saxon? Verrrrry swoonworthy!! I mean, who doesn't love an alpha male with abs?!
Well done, Stephanie, a heart breaking, rebuilding and warming book!
You also know that Nate's best friend, Saxon is the one to be there for her.
What you don't know is how emotional and heart breaking the writing was. You don't know how well Brooke's journey from happily married, to grieving widow, to someone who was rebuilding their life and learning to move on with her life was detailed and left you feeling the same emotions as her.
Saxon's need to look after and help Brooke goes far beyond that of a business partner or even best friend duties and it was endearing to see the changes in him from his bad boy, love 'em and leave 'em ways.
All in all it was a rollercoaster of a story. There were sweet parts, there were hide under the duvet depressing parts. It has an outcome I was pleased with and coveted for Brooke.
I loved the use of music throughout the book and Saxon? Verrrrry swoonworthy!! I mean, who doesn't love an alpha male with abs?!
Well done, Stephanie, a heart breaking, rebuilding and warming book!
August 7, 2014
Review: ****found at http://sexybookreviewsbyshellyandapri... ******
~ 4 star Review
What a breath of fresh air!! I have been in a bit of a "reading" rut lately. Books are just seeming to be repeating themselves, and I was so excited when I cam across this one, and it wasn't like that at all.
Wherever You Will Go is a story about life, loss, love, friendship and new beginnings. The story line is fresh, emotional and intriguing. The characters are deep, connectable, heart wrenching at times, and just impossible not to love. Stephaine's writing is stellar.
This is a book any and all romance lovers will enjoy. Pick up a copy of Wherever You Will Go by Stephanie Smith today, it will not disappoint. You can thank me later for the incredible emotional roller-coaster ride!!
~ 4 star Review
What a breath of fresh air!! I have been in a bit of a "reading" rut lately. Books are just seeming to be repeating themselves, and I was so excited when I cam across this one, and it wasn't like that at all.
Wherever You Will Go is a story about life, loss, love, friendship and new beginnings. The story line is fresh, emotional and intriguing. The characters are deep, connectable, heart wrenching at times, and just impossible not to love. Stephaine's writing is stellar.
This is a book any and all romance lovers will enjoy. Pick up a copy of Wherever You Will Go by Stephanie Smith today, it will not disappoint. You can thank me later for the incredible emotional roller-coaster ride!!
August 28, 2015
I loved this!
It broke my heart witnessing all the pain and devastation Brooke went through after her husband died in a car accident. It's seeing how it only takes the briefest of moments to lose everything you hold dear, and how for a time it seems impossible to ever want to get back up and live again. But it takes the right person, the right Saxon beside you.
I felt deeply for these characters and I'm so glad there are books and authors like this out there.
It broke my heart witnessing all the pain and devastation Brooke went through after her husband died in a car accident. It's seeing how it only takes the briefest of moments to lose everything you hold dear, and how for a time it seems impossible to ever want to get back up and live again. But it takes the right person, the right Saxon beside you.
I felt deeply for these characters and I'm so glad there are books and authors like this out there.
November 29, 2015
LOVED IT!!!!!!
August 28, 2014
Review: Jo Rushton Book Gifted for Honest Review
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TheHopelessR...
Blog: http://thehopelessromanticsbookblog.b...
If you love second chance romance, then "Wherever You Will Go" could be just what you're looking for!
Brooke was living the perfect life, married to her college sweetheart, crazy in love and planning a family. Everything was great until disaster struck leaving her devastated and alone, her once perfect life all but a memory. How an earth would Brooke get over such a tragic loss? Saxon was Brooke's deceased husbands best friend and business partner and as such, was also trying to come to terms with his own loss. Two people so completely heart broken with one connection, it was inevitable that they would start to rely on each other for support.
The more time the couple spent together, the stronger their feeling became and it soon became clear that Saxon wanted more. The question was, could Brooke admit her own feelings for this man without the burden of guilt? And if not, could the couple ever be anything more than friends?
I really liked Brooke and could totally understand her feelings and her apprehension at starting a new relationship again. Brooke thought that falling in love with someone else meant betraying her deceased husband and she also thought about other people's opinions before thinking of herself and how Saxon felt. She had a lot of soul searching to do that's for sure. I wanted Brooke to grab the chance of love she'd been given with both hands, especially with a man like Saxon! He was HAWT!!
I loved Saxon. He was good looking, rich, caring and had some sexy cave-man characteristics going on that made me blush! All of these qualities attracted Brooke and before long she felt the same way but I wasn't so sure that she would ever be able to move on from her husband.
I did like this story, however I didn't love it. I felt that the first half was a little slow and I wasn't sure if I should continue. I am glad I did though because at around fifty percent the plot began to get a more exciting and from that point on, I truly enjoyed what I was reading. This story was written from both Brooke and Saxon's POV which is always a bonus and I loved having the opportunity to get a first account account of each of their thoughts and feelings.
Although this is the first book in a series, it can be read as a stand alone.
For me, "Wherever You Will Go" started out at three hearts but improved so much in the second half that overall it gets 4 Hearts.
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TheHopelessR...
Blog: http://thehopelessromanticsbookblog.b...
If you love second chance romance, then "Wherever You Will Go" could be just what you're looking for!
Brooke was living the perfect life, married to her college sweetheart, crazy in love and planning a family. Everything was great until disaster struck leaving her devastated and alone, her once perfect life all but a memory. How an earth would Brooke get over such a tragic loss? Saxon was Brooke's deceased husbands best friend and business partner and as such, was also trying to come to terms with his own loss. Two people so completely heart broken with one connection, it was inevitable that they would start to rely on each other for support.
Looking into his eyes, I know why I've broken down. Why I've let him see me at my most vulnerable. Saxon is the only one who truly understands....the only other person here who has lost their other half....their best friend...their soul mate.
The more time the couple spent together, the stronger their feeling became and it soon became clear that Saxon wanted more. The question was, could Brooke admit her own feelings for this man without the burden of guilt? And if not, could the couple ever be anything more than friends?
I care for her. I've always cared for her, and will always care for her, but do I care for her more than I'm willing to admit? Is it more than the way a person should care for their best friends wife?
I really liked Brooke and could totally understand her feelings and her apprehension at starting a new relationship again. Brooke thought that falling in love with someone else meant betraying her deceased husband and she also thought about other people's opinions before thinking of herself and how Saxon felt. She had a lot of soul searching to do that's for sure. I wanted Brooke to grab the chance of love she'd been given with both hands, especially with a man like Saxon! He was HAWT!!
I loved Saxon. He was good looking, rich, caring and had some sexy cave-man characteristics going on that made me blush! All of these qualities attracted Brooke and before long she felt the same way but I wasn't so sure that she would ever be able to move on from her husband.
"How can something so wrong feel so right?"Saxon fell for Brooke in a big way and he would do anything for her but I was worried that he was going to get his heartbroken. I felt truly sorry for him
"How can you not see?"
"Not see what?"
"You do belong here. Right here, by my side. That's where you belong Brooke."
I did like this story, however I didn't love it. I felt that the first half was a little slow and I wasn't sure if I should continue. I am glad I did though because at around fifty percent the plot began to get a more exciting and from that point on, I truly enjoyed what I was reading. This story was written from both Brooke and Saxon's POV which is always a bonus and I loved having the opportunity to get a first account account of each of their thoughts and feelings.
Although this is the first book in a series, it can be read as a stand alone.
For me, "Wherever You Will Go" started out at three hearts but improved so much in the second half that overall it gets 4 Hearts.
August 9, 2014
Thing thing about grief is it takes time to accept it. No one knows exactly how long, each person grieves differently, and no one can force you. It has to come from within only when you are ready to see it.
People will tell you that have to let go, move forward, leave the past in the past and go on living. The thing I discovered is that I didn't have to let Nate go. I didn't have to leave him in the past, and I didn't have to choose between them. I had to make room.
Saxon and I can remember him together, miss him together, and share his memories together. I can keep him in my heart and carry him wherever I will go.
I don't even think me sitting here attempting to write a review will justify everything that I just read...everything that I just felt & still feeling.
Wherever You Will Go will rip your heart open, squish it, pump it back to life, kick it around a few times - add some butterflies, enter knife - and give you freaking crazy glue with permanent adhesive.
THAT describes everything I went through, not including the tissues in the end.
Brooke and Saxon's story is captivating, riveting and raw.
I'll just leave it at that while I go relive it all in my head all over again.
August 7, 2014
**I received an ARC from the Author for an honest review.**
This is one emotionally charged book. It is sweet, sexy and very passionate. I cried my eyes out reading this book. I felt every emotion that both of these main characters were feeling at all the right times. I LOVED it!!!
So, when this book starts we get a glimpse into Brooke's marriage to Nate. They are loving and you can feel their love through their interactions. Then the unthinkable happens and Nate is in an accident and Brooke is struggling to pick up the pieces. I cried so much with Brooke while she was struggling. I also laughed and found myself smiling with her when she was slowly coming back to herself. Although throughout this book she constantly struggled with her reality it was so wonderfully written that I believed every single emotion, decision and indecision. I love that she decided to be strong and try to move on with her life and with the help of Saxon, Nate's best friends, she easily found her footing again.
Let's talk about Saxon...Holy hell that is one hot executive type that I wouldn't mind looking after me. I love that he stepped right in and held to his promise to Nate to look after Brooke. I love all of the little bits and pieces of the past we got to cement the love that he held from Brooke even before Nate's passing. But it wasn't in a sleazy way.
When their relationship went to the next level it wasn't rushed or in an unbelievable way, but it made perfect sense. The storyline is very believable and it flows smoothly. It doesn't linger and to me it made perfect sense. I love the characters. The are all well written even the sleazy asshats that made an appearance. I look forward to what comes next in this series.
This is one emotionally charged book. It is sweet, sexy and very passionate. I cried my eyes out reading this book. I felt every emotion that both of these main characters were feeling at all the right times. I LOVED it!!!
So, when this book starts we get a glimpse into Brooke's marriage to Nate. They are loving and you can feel their love through their interactions. Then the unthinkable happens and Nate is in an accident and Brooke is struggling to pick up the pieces. I cried so much with Brooke while she was struggling. I also laughed and found myself smiling with her when she was slowly coming back to herself. Although throughout this book she constantly struggled with her reality it was so wonderfully written that I believed every single emotion, decision and indecision. I love that she decided to be strong and try to move on with her life and with the help of Saxon, Nate's best friends, she easily found her footing again.
Let's talk about Saxon...Holy hell that is one hot executive type that I wouldn't mind looking after me. I love that he stepped right in and held to his promise to Nate to look after Brooke. I love all of the little bits and pieces of the past we got to cement the love that he held from Brooke even before Nate's passing. But it wasn't in a sleazy way.
When their relationship went to the next level it wasn't rushed or in an unbelievable way, but it made perfect sense. The storyline is very believable and it flows smoothly. It doesn't linger and to me it made perfect sense. I love the characters. The are all well written even the sleazy asshats that made an appearance. I look forward to what comes next in this series.
July 4, 2014
This book total left me an emotional wreck. What happens when the love of your life is suddenly gone. How do you make it thru the day, knowing your dreams are now shattered. The last person Brooke thought would be her rock was Saxon. Her husband's best friend and business partner. The one who has had a different woman every time she sees him, since they were in college.
The bond that forges between Brooke and Saxon is electric and passionate but when the guilt of Nate's death comes full force into both of their lives, will they be able to move past the pain they each share, along with the others around them. How far with each of they be willing to go.
My heart broke for Brooke. The pain and devastation was heart wrenching. Saxon is fun and sarcastic and oh so swoon y. Once,Brooke starts to come out of her funk, you can see how perfect Sax and Brooke are together. And Brooke's best friend is a riot!
I loved this book <3
The bond that forges between Brooke and Saxon is electric and passionate but when the guilt of Nate's death comes full force into both of their lives, will they be able to move past the pain they each share, along with the others around them. How far with each of they be willing to go.
My heart broke for Brooke. The pain and devastation was heart wrenching. Saxon is fun and sarcastic and oh so swoon y. Once,Brooke starts to come out of her funk, you can see how perfect Sax and Brooke are together. And Brooke's best friend is a riot!
I loved this book <3
October 27, 2014
100000 stars!!!!
I can't begin to write all the things I love about this book.
First of all... TWO DAYS!!! That's all it took for me to read Brooke and Saxon's love story.
The writing is amazing, the author manages to write it so easily for the reader, you feel every single emotion from the very begining, Brooke's loss, her sufer is right on the surface, but she is strong and willing to survive her husband's death.
Saxon on the other hand, what can I say, he is my new book boyfriend, he's suffering his best friend's death also, but it's carrying all those feeling for his best friend's wife, but first of all he is willing to make Brooke find her place in life again with every single cell he's got.
I love the time they had together and how they truly respected Nate's memory.
I can't wait to have my hand on the second book!!!
I can't begin to write all the things I love about this book.
First of all... TWO DAYS!!! That's all it took for me to read Brooke and Saxon's love story.
The writing is amazing, the author manages to write it so easily for the reader, you feel every single emotion from the very begining, Brooke's loss, her sufer is right on the surface, but she is strong and willing to survive her husband's death.
Saxon on the other hand, what can I say, he is my new book boyfriend, he's suffering his best friend's death also, but it's carrying all those feeling for his best friend's wife, but first of all he is willing to make Brooke find her place in life again with every single cell he's got.
I love the time they had together and how they truly respected Nate's memory.
I can't wait to have my hand on the second book!!!
August 7, 2014
Wow, I enjoyed the emotional journey of this book. Brooke is a tough cookie. After a devastating tragedy that has left her reeling she must pick up the pieces of her life and allow herself to love again. And oh my, Saxon is just pure sexiness. There are much worst things than having him to hold you at night. Great debut novel! I am a Stephanie Smith fan! Rock on, girl! xo
In celebration of this book's release enter the giveaway to win $10 Amazon gift card, swag packs and ebook copies!
http://www.bookdivaness.com/new-promo...
In celebration of this book's release enter the giveaway to win $10 Amazon gift card, swag packs and ebook copies!
http://www.bookdivaness.com/new-promo...
August 26, 2014
5 Amazing stars!!!!! I would really recommend this book.
Beautiful book!!! What can I say this book was beautiful the author wrote this story with some much feeling, the story line was sad but yet amazing. I cried for Brooke and all she was going through. I absolutely loved the characters, Saxon was an amazing hero I loved the way he helped Brooke and how much he loved his friend. This book was really sad but also uplifting because it showed that life truly does go on and that it is OK to love and be happy again. I loved the length of the story and how we got to see glimpses of Nate as well.
Beautiful book!!! What can I say this book was beautiful the author wrote this story with some much feeling, the story line was sad but yet amazing. I cried for Brooke and all she was going through. I absolutely loved the characters, Saxon was an amazing hero I loved the way he helped Brooke and how much he loved his friend. This book was really sad but also uplifting because it showed that life truly does go on and that it is OK to love and be happy again. I loved the length of the story and how we got to see glimpses of Nate as well.
December 11, 2014
This book was well written and I was hooked from the beginning. The chemistry was HOT and the storyline really pulls at your heartstrings. I loved every moment. I recommend this book and look forward to the next installment.
July 4, 2015
First let me thank Stephanie for gifting me and ARC of this novel in return for an honest review. Stephanie is a new author to add to my growing list for this year. Anyways, onto it..
*** small spoiler alert ***
Wherever You Will Go starts off with the story of a wonderfully close and loving couple, Nate and Brooke Willis. Brooke who volunteers at an art gallery and various other places, doesn't need to work. Her husband and the love of her life Nate owns his own investment banking business. That allows her to be the happy loving wife who isn't stressing for money. They have been married for ten years, having been college sweethearts. They talk of starting a family, it’s time and Nate as well as Brooke is ready for that next step.
The next day though things change drastically for this loving family. Nate, on his way to work is killed in an auto accident. Brooke's world crumbles. Hard. (God, the feels. The first few chapters had me in tears and sobbing. It was like I was there, holding Brooke’s hand through this hard time. It makes you tell the one you love “I love you” a few extra times just in case. Because we are not promised a tomorrow after all.) No one can console Brooke, her soul is hurting as the rest of her tries to deal with the loss that is swamping her. The only exception is Saxon, her late husband Nate’s best friend, business partner and brother from another mother. The moment she sees him after the funeral she breaks down completely. He knows how she feels. They share in the pain of this loss. Nate meant so much to them both.
After the funeral Brooke falls into bed and literally doesn’t move for days. Her parents and best friend Rachel check on her . In order for her to get her ass out of bed and shower it takes her mom breaking down when she finds her still in bed in her funeral clothes and her feeling guilty for making them suffer more. (But come one they should know this was hard, I mean her life died when Nate did. She needs to restart and that is not an easy thing to do.) Brooke tries to move forward. The hope that she is pregnant with Nate’s baby is holding her up. But the tests keep coming out negative. The doctor tells her it is most likely the stress that is keeping her period at bay.
Three weeks later when Brooke wakes up and her period has started she flips out. Total divafied, emotional, ‘I’ve lost my mind’ breakdown and destroys her master bedroom en-suite bathroom. Mirror smashed, shower door smashed, everything she can get her hands on is tossed against the wall and shattered. Her one hope of something of Nate’s, a little piece if him is gone. (Again, my feels were all over the place. I know the feeling of loss, most of us do and the closer you are to that person the worse it hits you. Talk about a sucker punch. But it only made me read on further.) Brooke reverts back to the couch potato who refuses to eat, just laying there wallowing in her hurt and misery. Her parents and Rachel still check on her but they get no where with her. She barely acknowledges them. It isn't until Saxon comes over that things change.
Saxon -after getting calls from Nate’s mom that she isn’t letting anyone in or answering her calls- goes over, not bothering to knock he uses his key and when he walks in she is half sitting up on the couch, dirty hair, unwashed and in Nate's baggy ass sweats. His heart goes out to her and the moment she sees him she has a complete breakdown. After just simply holding her on the couch he gets her to go shower. He is getting her out of this house. She needs to be out in the air and out of this house and all of its memories. The guilt for not coming sooner swamps him. He should have come sooner. When she goes to the spare bathroom -the one she has been using since she tore up the other- he goes to investigate. Then he is slammed with guilt and worry. Everything is destroyed. Almost as much as she is.
Going out for coffee and spending time with Saxon seems to have lightened her heart a bit. There is still a lot of anger in her at losing her soul mate but Saxon isn;t letting her get off that easy. He asks her about Argo. Nate’s company. When she decided to keep it months ago he hoped she was coming in to the business. Now it was time to know. There hours out and talking about Argo get her to thinking about what she wants to do. She has a small epiphany once she is back home. Her being this way. wallowing in her hurt and misery is hurting the people around her more than she had seen before. Everyone is there for her, canceling and rearranging plans they had in case she needs them. It’s time to change that.
“Life goes on, whether you choose to move forward and take a chance in the unknown or stay behind, locked in the past, thinking of what could've been. I don’t want to live in the past anymore. I’m so lonely; there’s nothing for me here.”
The next morning she calls Rachel and needs to go shopping for ‘work suits’ to get her head in the game before she talks herself out of it. Rachel agrees and they hit the mall. Several hours and many bags later they hit the food court to have lunch. They’ll go for a movie after all this shopping and just have a day out. Its the first time in three months that Brooke really starts to feel lightened. She can do this. When she gets home she has a nap and then when she wakes she goes into cleaning mode. The next day is much the same. Her house is cleaned top to bottom, including her now naked en-suite bathroom. Time for a clean slate and a new beginning for the next morning. She will be strolling into Argo to see exactly what is needed to keep Nate’s legacy alive. To make a name for herself in his world.
Working at Argo is just what Brooke needed. Maybe it was working and spending everyday with Saxon. The one person who knows exactly how she feels and there is no need to hide her feelings from him. As they work closer and closer and more time passes things between them grow to a new level. The small brief moments turn into a fire that they can no longer deny. With a night of passion at the office Brooke freaks out. Of course, because she is so mixed up in her head. Every thought revolves around the growing guilt she now feels. But thankfully Saxon is able to get through to her. For now at least. They attend work functions, gala’s and socialize in a business manner when it’s needed. Saxon also makes every available opportunity he can to take her out. Keeping her and himself busy.
The tension is still there but Brooke is trying to just live, not think. A co-worker Paul is the only real problem at the moment. He has made Brooke and other woman in the office uncomfortable but so far hasn’t crossed a line. Saxon talks to Brooke and is making arrangements to move him out of the Argo family in a way that won't come back and bite them in the ass but after months of working there he makes a move on Brooke. One that is not welcomed and turns into a fight she won’t forget anytime soon. This only adds to the guilt and pain in Saxon. He failed to save her. He wants her but she still isn’t ready to open herself up to him completely. Her heart belongs to Nate, even though he isn’t here anymore.
It takes a night out at Nate’s parents house for all the cards to crumble into place. Jeanine, the nasty snarly bitch makes Brooke feel like she has hurt Nate by being with Saxon. Jeanine doesn’t think he is good enough for her. Needless to say that night Brooke hurts Saxon. Breaks his heart.. after he swore to never give it anyone he had laid it out for her and she ran it over like a bug. After Brooke leaves him standing in the driveway he confronts Jeanine and vows to never see her again. Some family she was. Then Brooke awakens to Saxon coming into her house and curling up in bed with her. She thinks he forgives her and as she passes out she hears him say he loves her. But when she wakes he is gone. Its not until she gets to the office early to speak to him she sees his office is destroyed. His hurting over Nate and her was finally let out in a method of mass destruction.
After a complete breakdown on her part Brooke goes to see Nate. She needs to talk to him, needs to feel him again. As she leaves the graveside she sits in her car and she feels something when she hears a song on the radio. Finally after a bit of listening to a song on repeat… she knows what she has to do. Finally she has accepted Nate s gone but will never be far from her. It’s then that she feels lighter and at ease. Now, Brooke is a woman on a mission. One that takes her two very stressful, long months to fulfill but it was what she needed to do to gully move on.
The moment she shows up on Saxon’s doorstep is the moment of truth. Can he forgive her? Will he? One knock on his door is going to make her day or crush her and she will have to start over. What could happen when he opens the door? They had a rocky start, skidded to a halt and now you have to wait and see what happens.
Let me just say… this story had me all over the place. I would go from laughing (out loud and getting looks) to shock, to crying and then into a wtf just happened state. It kept me on my toes to say the least. I loved it. My feels have been shredded and I can honestly say it was completely worth it. I’ve not read a book this emotional (in a good way) in a long time. And can’t wait to jump into the next installment. Also, as I read this one my iTunes decided to play Crazy by Kat Dahlia and Jesus it is so Brooke and Saxon so I thought I would share it. Just listen to the words. I put it on repeat while I read the last 20 percent of this book. Just saying, LOL!
'Cause I ain't been myself.
Lately something's going on.
Nah boy, I ain't even slept,
I been up all night long
In my head,
Tryna figure out what I want, what I do,
What I don't.
Is it crazy all that makes sense is you?
Tell me, 'cause it's blowing my mind.
Tell me, 'cause I don't understand,
How someone just can walk into your life,
And everything before them you forget.
Is it crazy?
Tell me what's going on,
I need to know.
'Cause I ain't tryna lose myself,
Or lose control.
Baby, tell me the truth,
I need to know.
Is it crazy?
Baby, is it crazy?
*** small spoiler alert ***
Wherever You Will Go starts off with the story of a wonderfully close and loving couple, Nate and Brooke Willis. Brooke who volunteers at an art gallery and various other places, doesn't need to work. Her husband and the love of her life Nate owns his own investment banking business. That allows her to be the happy loving wife who isn't stressing for money. They have been married for ten years, having been college sweethearts. They talk of starting a family, it’s time and Nate as well as Brooke is ready for that next step.
The next day though things change drastically for this loving family. Nate, on his way to work is killed in an auto accident. Brooke's world crumbles. Hard. (God, the feels. The first few chapters had me in tears and sobbing. It was like I was there, holding Brooke’s hand through this hard time. It makes you tell the one you love “I love you” a few extra times just in case. Because we are not promised a tomorrow after all.) No one can console Brooke, her soul is hurting as the rest of her tries to deal with the loss that is swamping her. The only exception is Saxon, her late husband Nate’s best friend, business partner and brother from another mother. The moment she sees him after the funeral she breaks down completely. He knows how she feels. They share in the pain of this loss. Nate meant so much to them both.
After the funeral Brooke falls into bed and literally doesn’t move for days. Her parents and best friend Rachel check on her . In order for her to get her ass out of bed and shower it takes her mom breaking down when she finds her still in bed in her funeral clothes and her feeling guilty for making them suffer more. (But come one they should know this was hard, I mean her life died when Nate did. She needs to restart and that is not an easy thing to do.) Brooke tries to move forward. The hope that she is pregnant with Nate’s baby is holding her up. But the tests keep coming out negative. The doctor tells her it is most likely the stress that is keeping her period at bay.
Three weeks later when Brooke wakes up and her period has started she flips out. Total divafied, emotional, ‘I’ve lost my mind’ breakdown and destroys her master bedroom en-suite bathroom. Mirror smashed, shower door smashed, everything she can get her hands on is tossed against the wall and shattered. Her one hope of something of Nate’s, a little piece if him is gone. (Again, my feels were all over the place. I know the feeling of loss, most of us do and the closer you are to that person the worse it hits you. Talk about a sucker punch. But it only made me read on further.) Brooke reverts back to the couch potato who refuses to eat, just laying there wallowing in her hurt and misery. Her parents and Rachel still check on her but they get no where with her. She barely acknowledges them. It isn't until Saxon comes over that things change.
Saxon -after getting calls from Nate’s mom that she isn’t letting anyone in or answering her calls- goes over, not bothering to knock he uses his key and when he walks in she is half sitting up on the couch, dirty hair, unwashed and in Nate's baggy ass sweats. His heart goes out to her and the moment she sees him she has a complete breakdown. After just simply holding her on the couch he gets her to go shower. He is getting her out of this house. She needs to be out in the air and out of this house and all of its memories. The guilt for not coming sooner swamps him. He should have come sooner. When she goes to the spare bathroom -the one she has been using since she tore up the other- he goes to investigate. Then he is slammed with guilt and worry. Everything is destroyed. Almost as much as she is.
Going out for coffee and spending time with Saxon seems to have lightened her heart a bit. There is still a lot of anger in her at losing her soul mate but Saxon isn;t letting her get off that easy. He asks her about Argo. Nate’s company. When she decided to keep it months ago he hoped she was coming in to the business. Now it was time to know. There hours out and talking about Argo get her to thinking about what she wants to do. She has a small epiphany once she is back home. Her being this way. wallowing in her hurt and misery is hurting the people around her more than she had seen before. Everyone is there for her, canceling and rearranging plans they had in case she needs them. It’s time to change that.
“Life goes on, whether you choose to move forward and take a chance in the unknown or stay behind, locked in the past, thinking of what could've been. I don’t want to live in the past anymore. I’m so lonely; there’s nothing for me here.”
The next morning she calls Rachel and needs to go shopping for ‘work suits’ to get her head in the game before she talks herself out of it. Rachel agrees and they hit the mall. Several hours and many bags later they hit the food court to have lunch. They’ll go for a movie after all this shopping and just have a day out. Its the first time in three months that Brooke really starts to feel lightened. She can do this. When she gets home she has a nap and then when she wakes she goes into cleaning mode. The next day is much the same. Her house is cleaned top to bottom, including her now naked en-suite bathroom. Time for a clean slate and a new beginning for the next morning. She will be strolling into Argo to see exactly what is needed to keep Nate’s legacy alive. To make a name for herself in his world.
Working at Argo is just what Brooke needed. Maybe it was working and spending everyday with Saxon. The one person who knows exactly how she feels and there is no need to hide her feelings from him. As they work closer and closer and more time passes things between them grow to a new level. The small brief moments turn into a fire that they can no longer deny. With a night of passion at the office Brooke freaks out. Of course, because she is so mixed up in her head. Every thought revolves around the growing guilt she now feels. But thankfully Saxon is able to get through to her. For now at least. They attend work functions, gala’s and socialize in a business manner when it’s needed. Saxon also makes every available opportunity he can to take her out. Keeping her and himself busy.
The tension is still there but Brooke is trying to just live, not think. A co-worker Paul is the only real problem at the moment. He has made Brooke and other woman in the office uncomfortable but so far hasn’t crossed a line. Saxon talks to Brooke and is making arrangements to move him out of the Argo family in a way that won't come back and bite them in the ass but after months of working there he makes a move on Brooke. One that is not welcomed and turns into a fight she won’t forget anytime soon. This only adds to the guilt and pain in Saxon. He failed to save her. He wants her but she still isn’t ready to open herself up to him completely. Her heart belongs to Nate, even though he isn’t here anymore.
It takes a night out at Nate’s parents house for all the cards to crumble into place. Jeanine, the nasty snarly bitch makes Brooke feel like she has hurt Nate by being with Saxon. Jeanine doesn’t think he is good enough for her. Needless to say that night Brooke hurts Saxon. Breaks his heart.. after he swore to never give it anyone he had laid it out for her and she ran it over like a bug. After Brooke leaves him standing in the driveway he confronts Jeanine and vows to never see her again. Some family she was. Then Brooke awakens to Saxon coming into her house and curling up in bed with her. She thinks he forgives her and as she passes out she hears him say he loves her. But when she wakes he is gone. Its not until she gets to the office early to speak to him she sees his office is destroyed. His hurting over Nate and her was finally let out in a method of mass destruction.
After a complete breakdown on her part Brooke goes to see Nate. She needs to talk to him, needs to feel him again. As she leaves the graveside she sits in her car and she feels something when she hears a song on the radio. Finally after a bit of listening to a song on repeat… she knows what she has to do. Finally she has accepted Nate s gone but will never be far from her. It’s then that she feels lighter and at ease. Now, Brooke is a woman on a mission. One that takes her two very stressful, long months to fulfill but it was what she needed to do to gully move on.
The moment she shows up on Saxon’s doorstep is the moment of truth. Can he forgive her? Will he? One knock on his door is going to make her day or crush her and she will have to start over. What could happen when he opens the door? They had a rocky start, skidded to a halt and now you have to wait and see what happens.
Let me just say… this story had me all over the place. I would go from laughing (out loud and getting looks) to shock, to crying and then into a wtf just happened state. It kept me on my toes to say the least. I loved it. My feels have been shredded and I can honestly say it was completely worth it. I’ve not read a book this emotional (in a good way) in a long time. And can’t wait to jump into the next installment. Also, as I read this one my iTunes decided to play Crazy by Kat Dahlia and Jesus it is so Brooke and Saxon so I thought I would share it. Just listen to the words. I put it on repeat while I read the last 20 percent of this book. Just saying, LOL!
'Cause I ain't been myself.
Lately something's going on.
Nah boy, I ain't even slept,
I been up all night long
In my head,
Tryna figure out what I want, what I do,
What I don't.
Is it crazy all that makes sense is you?
Tell me, 'cause it's blowing my mind.
Tell me, 'cause I don't understand,
How someone just can walk into your life,
And everything before them you forget.
Is it crazy?
Tell me what's going on,
I need to know.
'Cause I ain't tryna lose myself,
Or lose control.
Baby, tell me the truth,
I need to know.
Is it crazy?
Baby, is it crazy?
April 27, 2015
Nate and Brooke had been together for 10 years and were ready to start the next chapter of their lives...starting a family...then tragedy struck. Nate was in a car accident on the way to work and killed instantly....Brooke's life has changed in the worst way possible. It just makes you think how quickly everything can changed.
"Nate wouldn’t recognize me sitting here today: eyes dry of tears, face blank, and body numb. I don’t know why I’m having this reaction. Part of me thinks it’s because deep down I don’t want everyone to watch me fall apart, the other part of me thinks it’s because during the last week I have cried myself out of tears, but most of me thinks it’s because I’m broken.
No longer the Brooke I once was. The happy Brooke, the vibrant Brooke, easy-going, laid-back, and positive Brooke. I’m missing something, and I know exactly what that is: my partner, my conscience, my brainstormer, my handyman, my therapist, my negotiator, my cheer squad, my best friend, my other half … my soul mate."
It's been a little over 2 months since Nate died and Brooke is still a depressed mess...enter Saxton, Nate's best friend! Nate and Saxton have been friends for years, he had a bad childhood so Nate's family were like his family. He considered him his brother more than his friend.
"What the fuck was I thinking? Not visiting, not calling, not texting or even sending a fucking email in three months. My best friend’s wife. No, my brother’s wife, because that’s what he was to me. A fucking brother, and I completely bailed on the most important person in his life. I bailed because I’m a weak prick and can’t handle my own emotions, let alone anyone else’s."
It's been 3 months since Nate was killed. She's pretty much ignoring everyone, so Saxton comes over and makes her shower and takes her to coffee. He asks her about coming to Argo, Nate's company. She doesn't wanna sell it because it was his dream, so she wants to learn the business so she can take it over. Saxton put his career on hold to help Nate build the company, but Brooke thinks he's ready to get on with his own career now. She feels she's holding everyone back so she's feels it's finally time to take the next step!
Brooke has now been working at Argo for 3 months. Saxton and her have been spending a lot of time together while he teaches her the business. Saxton has been kinda seeing this girl Amber(more like a sex buddy than a real real), but ever since he started spending time with Brooke he's been avoiding her. Well apparently she thought that Brooke was ruining her relationship with Saxton even though there was never a relationship to ruin...
“As a matter of fact, tell him he is done working here and you no longer need him. It’s the least you can do for trying to destroy us. How would Nate feel knowing you are fucking his best friend? Hmmmm? Chasing him and using him. What kind of wife are you? I’m sure Nate would be disgusted.”
That’s it! My body shakes as adrenalin courses through it and my hand automatically forms into a fist. I’m cocking it back before I even comprehend what the bitch said to me and just as I’m about to punch her…
“Get. The. Fuck. Out.”
Brooke and Saxton have been spending a lot of time together. She's started to feel things for him even though she's confused and feels guilty because of Nate. I think it's good because she shouldn't feel guilty, Nate would want her to be happy and move on. Saxton is the one night stand kinda guy, no real relationship, so every time they do something she makes it like its no big thing. This makes him mad because I'm pretty sure he has strong feelings for her. I really love Saxton, he's so sweet and protective of her! It helps they have been friends for years so she feels comfortable around him and can be herself.
“Is this okay?” he asks sternly. I nod shyly, still too embarrassed to admit how I really feel and how I do want this. Saxon cups my face in his palm as he rubs his thumb over my cheek. “There’s no need to be shy, Brooke.” His lust stirs beneath me as his eyes wander over my face. “You’re so beautiful.”
This is where Brooke realizes that she's totally safe with Saxton...Paul (creepy guy from Argo) attacked her and of course Saxton showed up and saved her. She knew she was safe as soon as she heard his voice. I love their relationship even though I'm not sure she wants to admit to herself what he really means to her. I also don't think she knows how Saxton really feels...it's not about looking after his best friends wife anymore.
"He places his hands on my knees over the blanket, and I can tell he’s trying to gather himself. “Are you okay?” he whispers.
Without control or intent, I break down. My chest falls over my knees and great wracking sobs leave my body. Saxon swears under his breath as he stands and swiftly picks me up, sitting down in the passenger seat with me on his lap. I lay against his chest while letting it all out. His hold around my shoulders tighten as he rocks me, resting his mouth on my head.
“You’re safe, Brooke. I’m here. I’ve got you, baby, you’re safe.” He repeats the soothing mantra over and over until the world falls away and all I focus on is those words. I’m safe, Saxon is here, he’s got me."
Saxton and Brooke went to Nate's moms house for dinner...lets just say it didn't go very well. She was rude and made her feel guilty about something she definitely shouldn't. I understand she is grieving as well since she lost her son, but it's not fair to make Brooke feel bad because she is moving on. Now she's telling Saxton she can't see him anymore. They are great together and Nate would be happy to see them together since he's gone...he loved them both. Stupid crazy mother in law!! Now Saxton is saying that he's done with helping her, protecting her, or caring about her...no no no!!! Grr!!
"I pull in a large breath before lifting my head. He stands, defeated, his hands resting on his hips. “We’ve spent nearly every night together for three months, Brooke.”
“Having sex, Saxon, that’s all it was.”
“Is that what you honestly believe? After all I’ve shared with you, all I’ve done for you and with you, is that what you really think?”
“Yes.” I stand taller and lift my chin."
After the fallout with Saxton, Brooke takes 2 months to get things done she needs too. One of those being, going to Nate's grave and finally coming to acceptance of Nate's passing and it being okay for her to move on and be happy. She then sets her sights on getting Saxton back because he realized she loves him just as much as he loves her!!
"I can move on with life and take Nate with me. Saxon and I can remember him together, miss him together, and share his memories together. I can keep him in my heart and carry him wherever I will go."
I'm really glad I took a chance on this book! Thanks so much to the author for giving me the chance to read and review it! This is a great story of love, friendship, grief and how to deal with it along with moving on.
"Nate wouldn’t recognize me sitting here today: eyes dry of tears, face blank, and body numb. I don’t know why I’m having this reaction. Part of me thinks it’s because deep down I don’t want everyone to watch me fall apart, the other part of me thinks it’s because during the last week I have cried myself out of tears, but most of me thinks it’s because I’m broken.
No longer the Brooke I once was. The happy Brooke, the vibrant Brooke, easy-going, laid-back, and positive Brooke. I’m missing something, and I know exactly what that is: my partner, my conscience, my brainstormer, my handyman, my therapist, my negotiator, my cheer squad, my best friend, my other half … my soul mate."
It's been a little over 2 months since Nate died and Brooke is still a depressed mess...enter Saxton, Nate's best friend! Nate and Saxton have been friends for years, he had a bad childhood so Nate's family were like his family. He considered him his brother more than his friend.
"What the fuck was I thinking? Not visiting, not calling, not texting or even sending a fucking email in three months. My best friend’s wife. No, my brother’s wife, because that’s what he was to me. A fucking brother, and I completely bailed on the most important person in his life. I bailed because I’m a weak prick and can’t handle my own emotions, let alone anyone else’s."
It's been 3 months since Nate was killed. She's pretty much ignoring everyone, so Saxton comes over and makes her shower and takes her to coffee. He asks her about coming to Argo, Nate's company. She doesn't wanna sell it because it was his dream, so she wants to learn the business so she can take it over. Saxton put his career on hold to help Nate build the company, but Brooke thinks he's ready to get on with his own career now. She feels she's holding everyone back so she's feels it's finally time to take the next step!
Brooke has now been working at Argo for 3 months. Saxton and her have been spending a lot of time together while he teaches her the business. Saxton has been kinda seeing this girl Amber(more like a sex buddy than a real real), but ever since he started spending time with Brooke he's been avoiding her. Well apparently she thought that Brooke was ruining her relationship with Saxton even though there was never a relationship to ruin...
“As a matter of fact, tell him he is done working here and you no longer need him. It’s the least you can do for trying to destroy us. How would Nate feel knowing you are fucking his best friend? Hmmmm? Chasing him and using him. What kind of wife are you? I’m sure Nate would be disgusted.”
That’s it! My body shakes as adrenalin courses through it and my hand automatically forms into a fist. I’m cocking it back before I even comprehend what the bitch said to me and just as I’m about to punch her…
“Get. The. Fuck. Out.”
Brooke and Saxton have been spending a lot of time together. She's started to feel things for him even though she's confused and feels guilty because of Nate. I think it's good because she shouldn't feel guilty, Nate would want her to be happy and move on. Saxton is the one night stand kinda guy, no real relationship, so every time they do something she makes it like its no big thing. This makes him mad because I'm pretty sure he has strong feelings for her. I really love Saxton, he's so sweet and protective of her! It helps they have been friends for years so she feels comfortable around him and can be herself.
“Is this okay?” he asks sternly. I nod shyly, still too embarrassed to admit how I really feel and how I do want this. Saxon cups my face in his palm as he rubs his thumb over my cheek. “There’s no need to be shy, Brooke.” His lust stirs beneath me as his eyes wander over my face. “You’re so beautiful.”
This is where Brooke realizes that she's totally safe with Saxton...Paul (creepy guy from Argo) attacked her and of course Saxton showed up and saved her. She knew she was safe as soon as she heard his voice. I love their relationship even though I'm not sure she wants to admit to herself what he really means to her. I also don't think she knows how Saxton really feels...it's not about looking after his best friends wife anymore.
"He places his hands on my knees over the blanket, and I can tell he’s trying to gather himself. “Are you okay?” he whispers.
Without control or intent, I break down. My chest falls over my knees and great wracking sobs leave my body. Saxon swears under his breath as he stands and swiftly picks me up, sitting down in the passenger seat with me on his lap. I lay against his chest while letting it all out. His hold around my shoulders tighten as he rocks me, resting his mouth on my head.
“You’re safe, Brooke. I’m here. I’ve got you, baby, you’re safe.” He repeats the soothing mantra over and over until the world falls away and all I focus on is those words. I’m safe, Saxon is here, he’s got me."
Saxton and Brooke went to Nate's moms house for dinner...lets just say it didn't go very well. She was rude and made her feel guilty about something she definitely shouldn't. I understand she is grieving as well since she lost her son, but it's not fair to make Brooke feel bad because she is moving on. Now she's telling Saxton she can't see him anymore. They are great together and Nate would be happy to see them together since he's gone...he loved them both. Stupid crazy mother in law!! Now Saxton is saying that he's done with helping her, protecting her, or caring about her...no no no!!! Grr!!
"I pull in a large breath before lifting my head. He stands, defeated, his hands resting on his hips. “We’ve spent nearly every night together for three months, Brooke.”
“Having sex, Saxon, that’s all it was.”
“Is that what you honestly believe? After all I’ve shared with you, all I’ve done for you and with you, is that what you really think?”
“Yes.” I stand taller and lift my chin."
After the fallout with Saxton, Brooke takes 2 months to get things done she needs too. One of those being, going to Nate's grave and finally coming to acceptance of Nate's passing and it being okay for her to move on and be happy. She then sets her sights on getting Saxton back because he realized she loves him just as much as he loves her!!
"I can move on with life and take Nate with me. Saxon and I can remember him together, miss him together, and share his memories together. I can keep him in my heart and carry him wherever I will go."
I'm really glad I took a chance on this book! Thanks so much to the author for giving me the chance to read and review it! This is a great story of love, friendship, grief and how to deal with it along with moving on.
October 30, 2016
This Review is for the first three books of this series which is now available as a set.
Title: Try Again (3 Book Series)
Author: Stephanie Smith
Series: Try Again
Publisher: Stephanie Smith
Reviewer: Mollien
Release Date: Available Now
Genre(s): Romance
Page Count: 874 pages
Heat Level: 3 flames out of 5
Rating: 4 stars out of 5
Blurb:
Review:
This is a very good series. Each book is a stand alone book that can be read independently. In the first book we read about Brooke and Saxon’s story, and boy what a story. It is full of heartache, and grief. Both Saxon and Brooke are grieving the death of Brooke’s husband and Saxon’s best friend Nate. As Saxon helps Brooke get her life back on track and keeping Nate’s business running, an unstoppable attraction develops, but Brooke’s guild of being with Nate’s best friend may be too much to get past. In the second book Brooke and Saxon’s story continues in a minor capacity as their friend and receptionist, Harper tries online dating to finally find a man. When she starts meeting her dates at a local cafe the mutual attraction between Harper and Tate reaches a new level. Tate wants Harper to forget the online dating and date him, but he instead agrees to help Harper weed out one disastrous date after another. The third book is about Tate’s sister Lana and Jake. These two have a dubious start with Jake covering for one of his Army brothers. When Jake’s little girl ends up in Lana’s kindergarten class, their complicated relationship that started in flames may just go up in smoke. I really enjoyed all three of these book. I think my favorite was probably the second one. Whereas the other two stories were more serious in nature, Harper and Tate’s story was more of a romantic comedy. The chemistry in all three books was hot. All three couples have their own distinct personalities keeping this series interesting and fresh. Yes, each story ends with a beautiful HEA. Great character development. We learn about these characters from one book to another.
SCORES on a scale of 1-5 Stars rate each of the Following 5
Categories
PLOT 4 Stars
CHEMISTRY: 5 Stars
PACING: 4 Stars
ENDING: 5 Stars
CHARACTER DEVELOPMENT: 5 Stars
Review Copy of Try Again (3 Book Series) provided by the Stephanie Smith.
I voluntarily reviewed an Advance Reader Copy of this book. Reviewed by Mollien from Alpha BookClub
Title: Try Again (3 Book Series)
Author: Stephanie Smith
Series: Try Again
Publisher: Stephanie Smith
Reviewer: Mollien
Release Date: Available Now
Genre(s): Romance
Page Count: 874 pages
Heat Level: 3 flames out of 5
Rating: 4 stars out of 5
Blurb:
From Book 1: ******* This is a saga series and each book can be read as a standalone *******
Brooke Willis had everything she ever wanted: a happy marriage, volunteer placement at the art gallery, and the promise of starting a family with the man of her dreams.
Saxon Reed had everything he ever thought he needed: a successful career, nice cars, expensive apartment, and more money than he knew what to do with.
After losing her husband Brooke insists on taking over his company to keep his dreams alive. Struggling in an industry she knows nothing about, Brooke turns to Saxon, her husband’s best friend and business partner, for guidance and support. Their mutual grief, and Saxon’s need to look after his best friend’s wife, creates a connection beyond just business.
Can Brooke take over the company and find a new life without saying goodbye to the past? Can Saxon protect and care for Brooke without scaring her away?
What happens when your heart doesn’t listen to your head? When lines are crossed and boundaries are pushed?
“Life goes on, whether you choose to move forward and take a chance in the unknown or stay behind, locked in the past, thinking of what could've been. I don’t want to live in the past anymore. I’m so lonely; there’s nothing for me here.”
From Book 2
******* This is a saga series and each book can be read as a standalone *******
How do you trust someone who is everything you’re trying to avoid?
Harper Lindell is having a bad day. You know, if a bad day consists of getting fired from your cushy job and then catching your boyfriend red handed playing hide the salami.
Sick of meeting the same guys over and over, Harper decides to try her luck at Internet dating. How bad could it be? Right?
Tate Washington wasn’t looking to meet anyone. Still dealing with the consequences of his one serious relationship, all he’s interested in is revamping his family’s behind-the-times café.
He didn’t plan on seeing the beautiful receptionist from Argo again, walking into his life to use his café as a dating hub, and using him as a BFF.
Can Harper really trust Tate, who is everything she thinks she needs to steer clear of?
Can Tate wait while Harper works through her insecurities and fears?
From Book 3
******* This is a saga series and each book can be read as a standalone *******
Is love really enough to put the past where it belongs?
Lana Washington chooses to hide. She hides from life. Hides from her abusive ex-husband. From the fact that everyone she loves eventually she loses, but when Lana’s house catches fire she is forced out of the predictable comfort her life has become.
Jake Weston had led a simple life, ever since he was called home from war for a family emergency four years ago, leaving only him and Hallie. Then one phone call throws his neatly-pieced world upside down.
Jake wasn’t supposed to be there. This wasn’t his problem. But as soon as those piercing green eyes focused in on him, he knew he was done for.
Can Jake hold onto his secret, all the while still holding onto Lana?
Will Lana be able to let go of the past and the hurt that binds her to her lonely existence?
Or will one small white lie ruin it all?
Review:
This is a very good series. Each book is a stand alone book that can be read independently. In the first book we read about Brooke and Saxon’s story, and boy what a story. It is full of heartache, and grief. Both Saxon and Brooke are grieving the death of Brooke’s husband and Saxon’s best friend Nate. As Saxon helps Brooke get her life back on track and keeping Nate’s business running, an unstoppable attraction develops, but Brooke’s guild of being with Nate’s best friend may be too much to get past. In the second book Brooke and Saxon’s story continues in a minor capacity as their friend and receptionist, Harper tries online dating to finally find a man. When she starts meeting her dates at a local cafe the mutual attraction between Harper and Tate reaches a new level. Tate wants Harper to forget the online dating and date him, but he instead agrees to help Harper weed out one disastrous date after another. The third book is about Tate’s sister Lana and Jake. These two have a dubious start with Jake covering for one of his Army brothers. When Jake’s little girl ends up in Lana’s kindergarten class, their complicated relationship that started in flames may just go up in smoke. I really enjoyed all three of these book. I think my favorite was probably the second one. Whereas the other two stories were more serious in nature, Harper and Tate’s story was more of a romantic comedy. The chemistry in all three books was hot. All three couples have their own distinct personalities keeping this series interesting and fresh. Yes, each story ends with a beautiful HEA. Great character development. We learn about these characters from one book to another.
SCORES on a scale of 1-5 Stars rate each of the Following 5
Categories
PLOT 4 Stars
CHEMISTRY: 5 Stars
PACING: 4 Stars
ENDING: 5 Stars
CHARACTER DEVELOPMENT: 5 Stars
Review Copy of Try Again (3 Book Series) provided by the Stephanie Smith.
I voluntarily reviewed an Advance Reader Copy of this book. Reviewed by Mollien from Alpha BookClub
September 11, 2014
4.5 heart-warming stars!
Complimentrary copy provided by the author in exchange for an honest review
I want to start this review by saying that I really believe this to be a very well written, heartwarming, and beautiful second-chance love story. Even though I did not really have the time to read it straight through in one sitting, I found myself thinking about it when I was busy with my everyday life, and that is definitely one of the reasons I give it such a high rating: when you cannot fully let go of a story, when you are impatient to get back to it, and when you simply want to forget the real world and read instead, are all major factors as to why I end up loving a book.
However…I believe this is the first time in my “career” as a book blogger when I find myself rather unsure about how many stars to give a book, and it is also the first time I choose to stay a bit undecided, thus providing half a star to my overall rating. Meaning, I have ended up giving it 4.5 stars in total. I promise that I will get back to it later, but let me begin with my review first.
Brooke is a very sweet, down-to-earth woman who suffers the kind of loss that we all hope to never experience in our lives, and the way that she struggles with the sudden death of her husband, Nate, felt very real and honest to me. How do you get yourself back after losing your soul mate? How do you even learn to want to look forward? How are you supposed to react when you actually do start finding a purpose in life again? Are you allowed to laugh and enjoy yourself? Should you continue to feel guilty because you are alive? And so on and so forth. We all react differently after losing a loved one, but I could really connect with Brooke and the way she handles everything.
The range of emotions Brooke goes through is vast, and I could truly feel her grief, her sadness, and her guilt…To be perfectly honest, I was crying once or twice! Yes, this is a very emotional book, and I love it! But I also love how she eventually allows herself to laugh again – even though she is still burying her head in the sand and stubbornly refuses to confront her issues. Oh, and by the way: this did not bother me in the least. Brooke needs to get herself back together on her own terms.
“As humans we can control our actions, even control how we think about things, but we have no control over our Hearts: how we feel, what we really want, what we cherish, and who we love.”
As for Saxon, the closest friend to Nate: well, I am really glad that the author chose to give us his point of view as the story progressed, because it provides the readers a chance to fully connect with him. Saxon is a bit of a man-whore, to tell the truth (and we do like our “bad boys”, do we not?), but looks can be deceiving, and there is definitely more to him than what meets the eye. His strong need to protect Brooke is primarily born out of his loyalty to Nate, but as these two end up spending so much time together, his feelings change…And then what is he to do?
I like seeing the true extent of Saxon’s feelings towards Brooke. I like knowing that he is actually like most real men: a bit insecure and a lot vulnerable when it comes to the woman he loves. Because real men feel just as much as women do – they just tend to show it in a somewhat weird manner sometimes – and that is why I also fell in love with Saxon. I just want to hug him! Yes, I do love alpha males, and Saxon can definitely be one on occasion, but I just feel that he is perfect for Brooke because he has this sensitive soul. His frustration and hurt whenever Brooke chooses to regard their relationship as less than it is feel, again, very genuine to me…
“I just can’t get it right when it comes to this woman. She deserves better than to have me as her protector. I could never do the job that Nate did. Am I trying to do Nate’s job? The lines have blurred, and I’m not sure if I’ve crossed them yet or not.”
Now, the reason I am a bit unsure about my rating is because of a few minor – maybe even miniscule –details I keep thinking about. As usual, this is my opinion alone, and other readers/reviewers may not be bothered by them. I am really worried about giving any spoilers– because it really is a wonderful book – so I will just hint at them instead:
I sometimes felt as if certain scenes between Brooke and Saxon were a bit rushed or repetitive – trust me, these did not occur often – or that Saxon’s past and upbringing were glossed over, not explained fully. And.that.is.it ! Those are my reasons. They are, perhaps, a bit vague, but I loathe spoilers and refuse to simply hand everything over on a plate! This is still one of my favorite books this year, and Miss Smith has definitely made me a fan of her work already.
To sum up: if you love a second-chance love story, filled to the brim with many conflicting emotions, with a bit of angst and main characters that you find believable and real, I would definitely recommend this book to you. Like I stated in the beginning of my review, the writing is beautiful, the pace flows well, and there is also a lot of quirky, adorable scenes that will make you laugh and sigh happily. Pure book heaven! <3
I cannot wait for more from Miss Smith!
Complimentrary copy provided by the author in exchange for an honest review
I want to start this review by saying that I really believe this to be a very well written, heartwarming, and beautiful second-chance love story. Even though I did not really have the time to read it straight through in one sitting, I found myself thinking about it when I was busy with my everyday life, and that is definitely one of the reasons I give it such a high rating: when you cannot fully let go of a story, when you are impatient to get back to it, and when you simply want to forget the real world and read instead, are all major factors as to why I end up loving a book.
However…I believe this is the first time in my “career” as a book blogger when I find myself rather unsure about how many stars to give a book, and it is also the first time I choose to stay a bit undecided, thus providing half a star to my overall rating. Meaning, I have ended up giving it 4.5 stars in total. I promise that I will get back to it later, but let me begin with my review first.
Brooke is a very sweet, down-to-earth woman who suffers the kind of loss that we all hope to never experience in our lives, and the way that she struggles with the sudden death of her husband, Nate, felt very real and honest to me. How do you get yourself back after losing your soul mate? How do you even learn to want to look forward? How are you supposed to react when you actually do start finding a purpose in life again? Are you allowed to laugh and enjoy yourself? Should you continue to feel guilty because you are alive? And so on and so forth. We all react differently after losing a loved one, but I could really connect with Brooke and the way she handles everything.
The range of emotions Brooke goes through is vast, and I could truly feel her grief, her sadness, and her guilt…To be perfectly honest, I was crying once or twice! Yes, this is a very emotional book, and I love it! But I also love how she eventually allows herself to laugh again – even though she is still burying her head in the sand and stubbornly refuses to confront her issues. Oh, and by the way: this did not bother me in the least. Brooke needs to get herself back together on her own terms.
“As humans we can control our actions, even control how we think about things, but we have no control over our Hearts: how we feel, what we really want, what we cherish, and who we love.”
As for Saxon, the closest friend to Nate: well, I am really glad that the author chose to give us his point of view as the story progressed, because it provides the readers a chance to fully connect with him. Saxon is a bit of a man-whore, to tell the truth (and we do like our “bad boys”, do we not?), but looks can be deceiving, and there is definitely more to him than what meets the eye. His strong need to protect Brooke is primarily born out of his loyalty to Nate, but as these two end up spending so much time together, his feelings change…And then what is he to do?
I like seeing the true extent of Saxon’s feelings towards Brooke. I like knowing that he is actually like most real men: a bit insecure and a lot vulnerable when it comes to the woman he loves. Because real men feel just as much as women do – they just tend to show it in a somewhat weird manner sometimes – and that is why I also fell in love with Saxon. I just want to hug him! Yes, I do love alpha males, and Saxon can definitely be one on occasion, but I just feel that he is perfect for Brooke because he has this sensitive soul. His frustration and hurt whenever Brooke chooses to regard their relationship as less than it is feel, again, very genuine to me…
“I just can’t get it right when it comes to this woman. She deserves better than to have me as her protector. I could never do the job that Nate did. Am I trying to do Nate’s job? The lines have blurred, and I’m not sure if I’ve crossed them yet or not.”
Now, the reason I am a bit unsure about my rating is because of a few minor – maybe even miniscule –details I keep thinking about. As usual, this is my opinion alone, and other readers/reviewers may not be bothered by them. I am really worried about giving any spoilers– because it really is a wonderful book – so I will just hint at them instead:
I sometimes felt as if certain scenes between Brooke and Saxon were a bit rushed or repetitive – trust me, these did not occur often – or that Saxon’s past and upbringing were glossed over, not explained fully. And.that.is.it ! Those are my reasons. They are, perhaps, a bit vague, but I loathe spoilers and refuse to simply hand everything over on a plate! This is still one of my favorite books this year, and Miss Smith has definitely made me a fan of her work already.
To sum up: if you love a second-chance love story, filled to the brim with many conflicting emotions, with a bit of angst and main characters that you find believable and real, I would definitely recommend this book to you. Like I stated in the beginning of my review, the writing is beautiful, the pace flows well, and there is also a lot of quirky, adorable scenes that will make you laugh and sigh happily. Pure book heaven! <3
I cannot wait for more from Miss Smith!
February 16, 2015
Brooke was married to the love of her life. She had meet him in college and they had been together ever since. She loved Nate with everything she was. Then her world was turned upside down when was killed in a car accident, he died on impact. How is she supposed to go on without him, they had just decided to start trying for kids. Now she holds onto the hope that she is pregnant. She knows that there really isn’t a chance as she just stopped taking the pill the morning he was killed and they had only had sex once. But she needs that small bit of hope right now. The only person she feels like understands her right now is Saxon, Nate’s best friend. He helped Nate get his dream business started and stayed working with him. Brooke finds that she has no will to go now that Nate is gone. Her parents find her 4 days after the funeral still lying in bed in the same clothes she wore to the funeral. Her parents are terrible worried about her. While visiting her, her father mentions selling Argo, Nate’s business. This is the last thing Brooke wants to do. It is a part of Nate how could she sell it. She decides she is going to keep the business and learn how to run it. At least the employee side, then she can hire someone for the financial side of the business if Saxon doesn’t want to stay. Brooke is destroyed a month later when she learns she isn’t pregnant. It’s like losing Nate all over again. Almost 2 months later Saxon comes to see her and can’t believe how he finds Brooke. He apologizes for not coming sooner. He encourages her to come work at Argo. Then at least he can keep an eye on her. He takes her to lunch and they talk. For some reason he is the only one Brooke really feels comfortable around anymore. Brooke decides after Saxon drops her bake at home going to work at Argo is exactly what she needs and what she is going to do. She and a friend go shopping for work appropriate clothing and come Monday morning she finds herself in the Argo parking lot. This start Brooke’s road to moving on, how much of a role will Saxon play? Will he be the chapter of Brooke’s life or just someone to fill her needs that Nate used too? Can she really be with Nate’s best friend? How will everyone else see it and react?
I felt so bad for Brooke; she was devastated by Nate’s death. She fell into a deep depression. She pushed out all her friends and family. The only person she feels anything with is Saxon. He knew Nate just as well as she did. Saxon had secretly liked her since the first time he saw her but he wasn’t the dating type that was Nate’s things. Saxon actually saw her first and pointed her out to Nate. Once Nate married Brooke he never looked at her like that again. Now that Nate has died all he can think about is Brooke. He thought it would be better if he stayed away but once he went to see her he didn’t want to stay away anymore. He keeps remembering conversations that he and Nate had at different times. He cares a great deal for Brooke and feels that he should take care of her now not just because it is what Nate would have wanted but because of the way he feels about her. Brooke finds herself feeling things for Saxon but is worried about what others will say. She also feels terribly guilty for having feeling for Saxon. How could she already have feelings for someone else plus he was Nate’s best friend. How could she do that to Nate? This book was very emotional. After a while I felt bad for Saxon as well. He was so patient with Brooke. This book was wonderfully written. The characters kept pulling you in for more. I can’t wait to read the next book in this series to see what happens next.
I was given this book in return for an honest review.
I felt so bad for Brooke; she was devastated by Nate’s death. She fell into a deep depression. She pushed out all her friends and family. The only person she feels anything with is Saxon. He knew Nate just as well as she did. Saxon had secretly liked her since the first time he saw her but he wasn’t the dating type that was Nate’s things. Saxon actually saw her first and pointed her out to Nate. Once Nate married Brooke he never looked at her like that again. Now that Nate has died all he can think about is Brooke. He thought it would be better if he stayed away but once he went to see her he didn’t want to stay away anymore. He keeps remembering conversations that he and Nate had at different times. He cares a great deal for Brooke and feels that he should take care of her now not just because it is what Nate would have wanted but because of the way he feels about her. Brooke finds herself feeling things for Saxon but is worried about what others will say. She also feels terribly guilty for having feeling for Saxon. How could she already have feelings for someone else plus he was Nate’s best friend. How could she do that to Nate? This book was very emotional. After a while I felt bad for Saxon as well. He was so patient with Brooke. This book was wonderfully written. The characters kept pulling you in for more. I can’t wait to read the next book in this series to see what happens next.
I was given this book in return for an honest review.
September 2, 2014
Complimentary copy provided by the author in exchange for an honest review.
Brooke is happily married to the man of her dreams, Nate. He was her college sweetheart and after having been married for a couple of years, they decided that it was time to start growing their family. But when a tragic car accident claims Nate’s life before they had the chance to conceive, Brooke needs to find a reason to go on; her best friend is gone and so is the chance to carry on his legacy.
Saxon is Nate’s best friend and he’s been carrying a torch for Brooke since first meeting back in college. At that point in his life though, Saxon was not in a place to settle down with just one woman, so he happily supported Nate’s pursuit and marriage of Brooke. When Nate passes away, Saxon keeps his distance. But when Brooke decides to learn the reigns of her late husband’s investment firm and starts working closely with Saxon, their relationship starts to evolve; from one of friendship and colleague, to one of lust then love.
Working in close proximity to Saxon, Brooke begins to see her friend in a different light. However she knows the type of relationships Saxon develops…ones not more than a couple of hours for a roll in the hay. Brooke seeks to use this to her advantage though, she has needs to be met and she knows that Saxon would be a safe man to get those needs met. But is that what Saxon really wants? Is he ready to put his life as a womanizer behind him and finally pursue a relationship with the one woman that has kept his interest throughout the years? Will Brooke get over the feeling that she is cheating on her late husband because of her feelings for his best friend?
Wherever You Will Go is a story of finding life and love after a tragedy turns the world on end. I loved the speed in the progression of the relationship between Brooke and Saxon. While some might think Brooke moved on a little more quickly than she should have, having known Saxon for years immediately takes out the need for the superficial “getting to know you” phase that you’d expect from meeting a stranger. I loved their shared history and that the two were able to lean on each other to deal with their grief.
This was a four star read for me. I thought Ms. Smith did an excellent job of truly capturing the essence of dealing with grief, especially in how it affected Brooke’s relationship with all of those around her, including her former in-laws. The book was emotion packed and well written. The characters were well developed and the storyline flowed. My only complaint is that there was just a little too much angst when it came to the Brooke/Saxon relationship. For being in their late 20s, there seemed to be a little bit of immaturity between the two. Situations where two adults should communicate rather than slam a door and walk a way. I can understand the dynamic once, maybe twice, but there was quite a bit of self-doubt evident that may not have been necessary. This is Ms. Smiths debut and the first in a series, however it can be read as a standalone. I definitely look forward to more!
Brooke is happily married to the man of her dreams, Nate. He was her college sweetheart and after having been married for a couple of years, they decided that it was time to start growing their family. But when a tragic car accident claims Nate’s life before they had the chance to conceive, Brooke needs to find a reason to go on; her best friend is gone and so is the chance to carry on his legacy.
Saxon is Nate’s best friend and he’s been carrying a torch for Brooke since first meeting back in college. At that point in his life though, Saxon was not in a place to settle down with just one woman, so he happily supported Nate’s pursuit and marriage of Brooke. When Nate passes away, Saxon keeps his distance. But when Brooke decides to learn the reigns of her late husband’s investment firm and starts working closely with Saxon, their relationship starts to evolve; from one of friendship and colleague, to one of lust then love.
Working in close proximity to Saxon, Brooke begins to see her friend in a different light. However she knows the type of relationships Saxon develops…ones not more than a couple of hours for a roll in the hay. Brooke seeks to use this to her advantage though, she has needs to be met and she knows that Saxon would be a safe man to get those needs met. But is that what Saxon really wants? Is he ready to put his life as a womanizer behind him and finally pursue a relationship with the one woman that has kept his interest throughout the years? Will Brooke get over the feeling that she is cheating on her late husband because of her feelings for his best friend?
Wherever You Will Go is a story of finding life and love after a tragedy turns the world on end. I loved the speed in the progression of the relationship between Brooke and Saxon. While some might think Brooke moved on a little more quickly than she should have, having known Saxon for years immediately takes out the need for the superficial “getting to know you” phase that you’d expect from meeting a stranger. I loved their shared history and that the two were able to lean on each other to deal with their grief.
This was a four star read for me. I thought Ms. Smith did an excellent job of truly capturing the essence of dealing with grief, especially in how it affected Brooke’s relationship with all of those around her, including her former in-laws. The book was emotion packed and well written. The characters were well developed and the storyline flowed. My only complaint is that there was just a little too much angst when it came to the Brooke/Saxon relationship. For being in their late 20s, there seemed to be a little bit of immaturity between the two. Situations where two adults should communicate rather than slam a door and walk a way. I can understand the dynamic once, maybe twice, but there was quite a bit of self-doubt evident that may not have been necessary. This is Ms. Smiths debut and the first in a series, however it can be read as a standalone. I definitely look forward to more!
August 3, 2014
I was exceedingly lucky to read this quite early on, and then again yesterday, and it was just as good if not better the second time.
Wherever you will go, had the most perfect mix of incredible writing with real characters and crazy emotions all thrown in to an awesome story. Yes, that sounded odd but I felt like I went through so many emotions when reading this book, that anything I say is going to be all indecipherable mumbles. :-/
Brooke and Nate are one of those perfect couples. Gorgeous and crazy in love, untouchable. Until the worst thing ever happens to them. Brooke is left alone to pick up the pieces and try to restart her life, alone.
Saxon is Nate's best friend and works for the business Nate created. He is very good at his job, successful, loaded and focused. He is also gorgeous and a ladies man, yet that may start to change. After losing his best friend, Saxon throws himself into work, yet can't stop hurting thinking about his best friends wife Brooke, and how she is coping.
So begins a friendship, where both of them grieve together and help each other to get past what happened. Brooke wants to step in to Nate's very successful business and try to keep it running. It's all she has left of him and she wants to try and keep it. Yet she needs the help of Saxon, he single handed lay runs the business now and Brooke is convinced he will want to move on.
From here on, we see Brooke learning to live her life without Nate and move on after everything that has happened. She is good with the business, and it gives her something to focus on. Saxon is always there helping Brooke through the learning process, and it seems them having each other is helping them to deal with it all. Through this friendship, they become quite attached to each other. Saxon shows himself to be very loyal and supportive, yet we start to see another side come through. A more protective and alpha side. Which I have to say, is super sexy. :)
Both Saxon and Brooke deal with the ups and downs of all that is happening with the business and work colleagues, plus the changing and developing feelings between them. All this while trying to move on, after the one man in both of their lives that meant everything is no longer around.
I loved how I went from trying to sniff discreetly through parts, to laughing and then getting hot and bothered through others. It was a crazy emotional whirlwind, but in the best possible sense. I loved all the characters, they always stood out as genuine and not fake. Brooke was gorgeous yet didn't brag about it and Saxon was almost predatory but didn't care what people thought of him. Even the other characters were a perfect mix of funny and genuine. I'm looking forward to the next book in the series when we get to follow Harper, the bubbly presence within the office and a friend to Brooke.
I definitely recommend this book, it will have you bawling then laughing then burning up, to start the process all over again afterwards.
**I was kindly given an ARC of this book in exchange for a fair and honest review**
Wherever you will go, had the most perfect mix of incredible writing with real characters and crazy emotions all thrown in to an awesome story. Yes, that sounded odd but I felt like I went through so many emotions when reading this book, that anything I say is going to be all indecipherable mumbles. :-/
Brooke and Nate are one of those perfect couples. Gorgeous and crazy in love, untouchable. Until the worst thing ever happens to them. Brooke is left alone to pick up the pieces and try to restart her life, alone.
Saxon is Nate's best friend and works for the business Nate created. He is very good at his job, successful, loaded and focused. He is also gorgeous and a ladies man, yet that may start to change. After losing his best friend, Saxon throws himself into work, yet can't stop hurting thinking about his best friends wife Brooke, and how she is coping.
So begins a friendship, where both of them grieve together and help each other to get past what happened. Brooke wants to step in to Nate's very successful business and try to keep it running. It's all she has left of him and she wants to try and keep it. Yet she needs the help of Saxon, he single handed lay runs the business now and Brooke is convinced he will want to move on.
From here on, we see Brooke learning to live her life without Nate and move on after everything that has happened. She is good with the business, and it gives her something to focus on. Saxon is always there helping Brooke through the learning process, and it seems them having each other is helping them to deal with it all. Through this friendship, they become quite attached to each other. Saxon shows himself to be very loyal and supportive, yet we start to see another side come through. A more protective and alpha side. Which I have to say, is super sexy. :)
Both Saxon and Brooke deal with the ups and downs of all that is happening with the business and work colleagues, plus the changing and developing feelings between them. All this while trying to move on, after the one man in both of their lives that meant everything is no longer around.
I loved how I went from trying to sniff discreetly through parts, to laughing and then getting hot and bothered through others. It was a crazy emotional whirlwind, but in the best possible sense. I loved all the characters, they always stood out as genuine and not fake. Brooke was gorgeous yet didn't brag about it and Saxon was almost predatory but didn't care what people thought of him. Even the other characters were a perfect mix of funny and genuine. I'm looking forward to the next book in the series when we get to follow Harper, the bubbly presence within the office and a friend to Brooke.
I definitely recommend this book, it will have you bawling then laughing then burning up, to start the process all over again afterwards.
**I was kindly given an ARC of this book in exchange for a fair and honest review**
September 18, 2014
* A review copy was provided by author for the Blog Tour *
Amazon Buy Link--->> Wherever You Will Go (Try Again Book 1)
~~ 3.5 Stars ~~
Wherever You Will Go is an emotional story about loss, grief, letting go and learning how to love again. This is Stephanie Smith's Debut novel and I thought it was an enjoyable read. I will say that I did like this book but it didn't WOW me. I liked that it was told in Dual POV (although primarily from Brooke's POV with some of Saxon's POV) and I thought the storyline was well thought out and developed. I truly felt the grief that Brooke and Saxon were going through. I thought the author portrayed an accurate account of all the feelings a woman goes through when grieving the loss of her husband. With that said I still had trouble connecting with the characters. Yes I felt both Saxon's and Brooke's grief but I really didn't connect with the other feelings and emotions they had. Because of this I thought that the book sort of dragged on a bit. I thought she focused too much on Brooke's grief that it just took something away from the development of Brooke and Saxon's relationship. The author also threw in some parts that were the added drama to the story (Amber and Paul) which I thought were good but I thought more of the story could've revolved around those story lines. Overall this is an enjoyable read and one that I would recommend to people that are looking for an emotional read with a HEA in the end.
This story is built around Brooke and Saxon. Brooke is married to Nate and is happy and looking forward to starting a family with him, when tragedy strikes and he is killed in a car accident. Saxon was Nate's BFF and he is destroyed when Nate dies. What happens next is a story of how two people learn to cope with the 5 stages of grief and learn how to let go and move on. Learning to love again. I liked Brooke as a character but I thought the way she treated Sax sometimes was just wrong. I was glad to see by the end of the book that she learned what the real lesson was. I really liked Saxon. He was a player but was also a person who loved fiercely and was extremely loyal. I would've liked to have learned about his up bringing a little sooner in the book, just because I think it would've help make that connection to him better.
I would recommend this book to anyone who is looking for an emotional story of two people who suffer a great loss and learn to love, trust and let go. If you are looking for an emotional roller coaster with many ups and downs then this is the book for you.
To read more reviews go to Book Bitches Blog
Amazon Buy Link--->> Wherever You Will Go (Try Again Book 1)
~~ 3.5 Stars ~~
Wherever You Will Go is an emotional story about loss, grief, letting go and learning how to love again. This is Stephanie Smith's Debut novel and I thought it was an enjoyable read. I will say that I did like this book but it didn't WOW me. I liked that it was told in Dual POV (although primarily from Brooke's POV with some of Saxon's POV) and I thought the storyline was well thought out and developed. I truly felt the grief that Brooke and Saxon were going through. I thought the author portrayed an accurate account of all the feelings a woman goes through when grieving the loss of her husband. With that said I still had trouble connecting with the characters. Yes I felt both Saxon's and Brooke's grief but I really didn't connect with the other feelings and emotions they had. Because of this I thought that the book sort of dragged on a bit. I thought she focused too much on Brooke's grief that it just took something away from the development of Brooke and Saxon's relationship. The author also threw in some parts that were the added drama to the story (Amber and Paul) which I thought were good but I thought more of the story could've revolved around those story lines. Overall this is an enjoyable read and one that I would recommend to people that are looking for an emotional read with a HEA in the end.
This story is built around Brooke and Saxon. Brooke is married to Nate and is happy and looking forward to starting a family with him, when tragedy strikes and he is killed in a car accident. Saxon was Nate's BFF and he is destroyed when Nate dies. What happens next is a story of how two people learn to cope with the 5 stages of grief and learn how to let go and move on. Learning to love again. I liked Brooke as a character but I thought the way she treated Sax sometimes was just wrong. I was glad to see by the end of the book that she learned what the real lesson was. I really liked Saxon. He was a player but was also a person who loved fiercely and was extremely loyal. I would've liked to have learned about his up bringing a little sooner in the book, just because I think it would've help make that connection to him better.
I would recommend this book to anyone who is looking for an emotional story of two people who suffer a great loss and learn to love, trust and let go. If you are looking for an emotional roller coaster with many ups and downs then this is the book for you.
To read more reviews go to Book Bitches Blog
September 8, 2014
*Copy provided by the author in exchange for an honest review
This is the debut book by Stephanie Smith and what an amazing debut it is. I was totally hooked from the onset and did not put down until I had finished it.
Brooke and Nate have been together for ten years and are happily married. On the day they make a huge decision that will complete their beautiful life together fate steps in and takes it all away in one swift moment in time.
Brooke is devastated at losing her soul mate. She is devastated and nobody in the World can understand her pain, well everyone except Saxon – Nate’s best friend. They have grown up together and have been more like brothers so the loss that Brooke and Sax share is the one thing that binds them together.
Nate and Sax had built a financial investment company together but once Nate has gone it is up to Brooke to decide what to do with the company. After three months of grieving she receives a life line from Sax when he asks her to come work at the office. Never believing she would and thinking she would just sell the business he is astounded when she turns up and makes plans to take over Nate’s dream. She just cannot let it go, the same as she cannot let Nate go.
Over the coming months Saxon and Brooke become close and the friends they once were when Brooke first got together with Nate.
The flow and pace of the storyline was an easy one to follow and the depth it developed. It was an inspired inclusion to follow the five stages of grief that people who are going through it do not appreciate what is happening in their life. The battle of heart and mind is a constant in everyday occurrences and I loved how this was identifiable in Brooke and Saxon’s relationship.
I loved both Brooke and Saxon and I totally got what each of them were going through and the reasons for their actions. Yes Brooke did push people away, she did make uneducated decisions but this was a woman who had lost the love of her life so to find herself having new and unexplainable feelings for an old friend would certainly make her act differently. Saxon was so adorable in his reactions to Brooke. I loved how this normally alpha and controlling man was a complete wuss for Brooke and frightened to say or do the wrong thing that would push her away.
I also liked the secondary characters and am happy to read at the back of the book that the next books would feature their stories. I was hoping for Rachel and Will as Will sounds delish, so hope he is one of those as his feature was kind of left hanging. I wanted to know what happened!
A great debut novel and start of a new series, I absolutely loved it and will definite one click the next book! Five stars.
This is the debut book by Stephanie Smith and what an amazing debut it is. I was totally hooked from the onset and did not put down until I had finished it.
Brooke and Nate have been together for ten years and are happily married. On the day they make a huge decision that will complete their beautiful life together fate steps in and takes it all away in one swift moment in time.
Brooke is devastated at losing her soul mate. She is devastated and nobody in the World can understand her pain, well everyone except Saxon – Nate’s best friend. They have grown up together and have been more like brothers so the loss that Brooke and Sax share is the one thing that binds them together.
Nate and Sax had built a financial investment company together but once Nate has gone it is up to Brooke to decide what to do with the company. After three months of grieving she receives a life line from Sax when he asks her to come work at the office. Never believing she would and thinking she would just sell the business he is astounded when she turns up and makes plans to take over Nate’s dream. She just cannot let it go, the same as she cannot let Nate go.
Over the coming months Saxon and Brooke become close and the friends they once were when Brooke first got together with Nate.
The flow and pace of the storyline was an easy one to follow and the depth it developed. It was an inspired inclusion to follow the five stages of grief that people who are going through it do not appreciate what is happening in their life. The battle of heart and mind is a constant in everyday occurrences and I loved how this was identifiable in Brooke and Saxon’s relationship.
I loved both Brooke and Saxon and I totally got what each of them were going through and the reasons for their actions. Yes Brooke did push people away, she did make uneducated decisions but this was a woman who had lost the love of her life so to find herself having new and unexplainable feelings for an old friend would certainly make her act differently. Saxon was so adorable in his reactions to Brooke. I loved how this normally alpha and controlling man was a complete wuss for Brooke and frightened to say or do the wrong thing that would push her away.
I also liked the secondary characters and am happy to read at the back of the book that the next books would feature their stories. I was hoping for Rachel and Will as Will sounds delish, so hope he is one of those as his feature was kind of left hanging. I wanted to know what happened!
A great debut novel and start of a new series, I absolutely loved it and will definite one click the next book! Five stars.
August 6, 2014
Holy freaking Maloney ,,,, I was offered an ARC of this book in return for an honest review ,,, man am I glad I accepted this offer ,,, after reading the synopsis I was sure it would be something I would enjoy ,,, I didn't just like this book ,,,NA AH i freaking loved it OMG it was awesome ,,, gripped me from the get go and I just didn't want to stop reading until I got to the end
This book has had an instantaneous pull on me from the first paragraph to the last ,, get a feeling I'm gonna be talking about this one a lot :)
This is an emotional book ,,, It touches on a number of emotions throughout and is what will keep you hanging on to every word
This is book is about Brooke's journey through a devastating time in her life ,,, not knowing what to do where to go or who to turn to ,,, there is NO light at the end of the tunnel for her ,,, until she finds solace in an unlikely place ,,, her life seems to change and she feels that she is moving forward but without realising there is still so much that she is holding back ,,, her eyes and heart are closed off to everything ,,, all of her dreams and ambitions no longer a priority ,,, she is adapting to her knew life ,,, or is she??
Brooke has a problem with over thinking things and when she experiences whispering and looks behind her back she becomes uneasy looking to withdraw again ,,, but one again her light brings her back ,,, things aren't so straight forward either for Brooke when things turn unpleasant ,,, will her light be there to protect her against vile words and actions? ,,,, will it all finally take it's toll and push her limits beyond repair??
"Why is it that something so wrong can feel so right?" ,,,, if it feels right then it probably is but there's only so much holding back anyone can do ,,, only so much fighting a losing battle anyone will make
This is a very easy ,,, nicely flowing book ,,, it touches on a number of issues within the story and you will feel a. Roller coaster of emotions throughout ,,, I have thoroughly enjoyed reading this book and as much as I wanted to get through it I truly did not want it to end
You have emotions, stronger women, hot dudes, fun, heartache, drama, romance and of course there's the good stuff in there too with the sex scenes ;) ,,,this book is a round of most of the things it look for in a book ,,, I loved it and I'm sure you all will too
HGHLY recommend this book to all
This book has had an instantaneous pull on me from the first paragraph to the last ,, get a feeling I'm gonna be talking about this one a lot :)
This is an emotional book ,,, It touches on a number of emotions throughout and is what will keep you hanging on to every word
This is book is about Brooke's journey through a devastating time in her life ,,, not knowing what to do where to go or who to turn to ,,, there is NO light at the end of the tunnel for her ,,, until she finds solace in an unlikely place ,,, her life seems to change and she feels that she is moving forward but without realising there is still so much that she is holding back ,,, her eyes and heart are closed off to everything ,,, all of her dreams and ambitions no longer a priority ,,, she is adapting to her knew life ,,, or is she??
Brooke has a problem with over thinking things and when she experiences whispering and looks behind her back she becomes uneasy looking to withdraw again ,,, but one again her light brings her back ,,, things aren't so straight forward either for Brooke when things turn unpleasant ,,, will her light be there to protect her against vile words and actions? ,,,, will it all finally take it's toll and push her limits beyond repair??
"Why is it that something so wrong can feel so right?" ,,,, if it feels right then it probably is but there's only so much holding back anyone can do ,,, only so much fighting a losing battle anyone will make
This is a very easy ,,, nicely flowing book ,,, it touches on a number of issues within the story and you will feel a. Roller coaster of emotions throughout ,,, I have thoroughly enjoyed reading this book and as much as I wanted to get through it I truly did not want it to end
You have emotions, stronger women, hot dudes, fun, heartache, drama, romance and of course there's the good stuff in there too with the sex scenes ;) ,,,this book is a round of most of the things it look for in a book ,,, I loved it and I'm sure you all will too
HGHLY recommend this book to all
September 7, 2014
Brooke and Nate have the most beautiful relationship. They met in College, fell in love and married. They are like two peas in a pod and so in love with each other. When Nate is tragically killed Brooke is left completely bereft and unable to think even one day ahead.
Stephanie has done a fantastic job at making you really feel all the emotions that Brooke is going through and I imagined how I would feel if it happened to me. Then I cried. Losing Nate is not something she ever thought would happen to her, he was her forever love. It is just gut wrenching as she goes through all the stages of grief and loneliness.
Saxon is Nate’s best friend, he went through college with them and works in Nate’s successful business. Saxon is hurting just as much as Brooke and he seems to be the only one who can get through to her. Brooke is so focused on her own misery that she overlooks how much this has affected Saxon.
Saxon is kind of the opposite of Nate. Not just in looks but he is a bit of a player, well that's what people think he is. He has a strong sense of loyalty and really believes it's his responsibility to look after Brooke, help her get back on her feet again. He is very protective of her and she feels safe with him.
Brooke decides to carry on with Nate's business dream and goes to work in the company with Saxon. They spend every day together and their working relationship brings them even closer together. Saxon is finding it hard to not give into what he is beginning to feel for Brooke and he is also mindful that she is his best friends wife. Brooke is depending on Saxon's company more and more, she is seeing avery different side of him and she likes it.
Losing someone you love affects everybody differently and sometimes even if you think you are dealing with it, you may just be hiding from making decisions and facing hard choices. Brooke needs to truly say goodbye to Nate before she can really move on with her life so she has some things she needs to do in order to do that - some may be heart breaking.
"I don't want to live in the past anymore. I'm lonely here; there's nothing for me here. I have to move on" - Brooke
I loved this, it was full of so much angst and emotion, it made me cry - a lot - made me laugh though too. Such a beautiful sweet story!
Stephanie has done a fantastic job at making you really feel all the emotions that Brooke is going through and I imagined how I would feel if it happened to me. Then I cried. Losing Nate is not something she ever thought would happen to her, he was her forever love. It is just gut wrenching as she goes through all the stages of grief and loneliness.
Saxon is Nate’s best friend, he went through college with them and works in Nate’s successful business. Saxon is hurting just as much as Brooke and he seems to be the only one who can get through to her. Brooke is so focused on her own misery that she overlooks how much this has affected Saxon.
Saxon is kind of the opposite of Nate. Not just in looks but he is a bit of a player, well that's what people think he is. He has a strong sense of loyalty and really believes it's his responsibility to look after Brooke, help her get back on her feet again. He is very protective of her and she feels safe with him.
Brooke decides to carry on with Nate's business dream and goes to work in the company with Saxon. They spend every day together and their working relationship brings them even closer together. Saxon is finding it hard to not give into what he is beginning to feel for Brooke and he is also mindful that she is his best friends wife. Brooke is depending on Saxon's company more and more, she is seeing avery different side of him and she likes it.
Losing someone you love affects everybody differently and sometimes even if you think you are dealing with it, you may just be hiding from making decisions and facing hard choices. Brooke needs to truly say goodbye to Nate before she can really move on with her life so she has some things she needs to do in order to do that - some may be heart breaking.
"I don't want to live in the past anymore. I'm lonely here; there's nothing for me here. I have to move on" - Brooke
I loved this, it was full of so much angst and emotion, it made me cry - a lot - made me laugh though too. Such a beautiful sweet story!
August 19, 2015
Please note this review may contain spoilers.
After losing her husband, Nate, in a car accident, Brooke is overwhelmed by her emotions. Shutting herself away from family and friends, she struggles to deal with the grief and anger that swallow her whole on a daily basis. After a surprise visit from Nate’s best friend and business partner, Saxon, she knows it’s time to face the world again and decides she’s ready to take over Nate’s business. Argo Investments was his dream and with Saxon’s help she’s determined to keep his dream alive.
Despite her grief, I never thought of Brooke as weak. In fact, when she was ready to return to the land of the living, despite her fears and desires to run back home to hide away again, she never did. But when her relationship with Saxon grew and evolved, I was disappointed with how she treated him.
I liked Saxon and thought he was a wonderful man for Brooke, but he did come with a little baggage. He’s handsome, wealthy and successful, but he believes he doesn’t have anything of substance to offer a woman, nor does he envision ever getting married. His issues stem from the lack of love he received as a child and witnessing the toxic marriage his parents had. But he also spent a great deal of time with Nate’s family, whose parents were happily married and treated him like their own, so I don’t really understand his issues if he experienced both sides of the coin. Despite the feelings he had for Brooke for years, it’s these issues that cause him to shut down his emotions when he’s around her, which of course has her believing their relationship is nothing more than sex and comfort.
WHEREVER YOU WILL GO was an amazing debut novel that’ll have you crying from Chapter One. I just love a book that can get me so emotional right from the start. The story is told in dual POVs, moves at a nice pace and comes with a nice HEA. There are gaps in time, but they’re pointed out so you’re not left wondering where all the time went. It’s written by an Australian author and there is some Aussie slang in there that non-Aussies probably won’t understand. I loved this book and I am looking forward to reading WHATEVER YOU DO, book 2 in the Try Again series.
For more reviews, please visit our website: www.romancebetweenthesheets.com
After losing her husband, Nate, in a car accident, Brooke is overwhelmed by her emotions. Shutting herself away from family and friends, she struggles to deal with the grief and anger that swallow her whole on a daily basis. After a surprise visit from Nate’s best friend and business partner, Saxon, she knows it’s time to face the world again and decides she’s ready to take over Nate’s business. Argo Investments was his dream and with Saxon’s help she’s determined to keep his dream alive.
Despite her grief, I never thought of Brooke as weak. In fact, when she was ready to return to the land of the living, despite her fears and desires to run back home to hide away again, she never did. But when her relationship with Saxon grew and evolved, I was disappointed with how she treated him.
I liked Saxon and thought he was a wonderful man for Brooke, but he did come with a little baggage. He’s handsome, wealthy and successful, but he believes he doesn’t have anything of substance to offer a woman, nor does he envision ever getting married. His issues stem from the lack of love he received as a child and witnessing the toxic marriage his parents had. But he also spent a great deal of time with Nate’s family, whose parents were happily married and treated him like their own, so I don’t really understand his issues if he experienced both sides of the coin. Despite the feelings he had for Brooke for years, it’s these issues that cause him to shut down his emotions when he’s around her, which of course has her believing their relationship is nothing more than sex and comfort.
WHEREVER YOU WILL GO was an amazing debut novel that’ll have you crying from Chapter One. I just love a book that can get me so emotional right from the start. The story is told in dual POVs, moves at a nice pace and comes with a nice HEA. There are gaps in time, but they’re pointed out so you’re not left wondering where all the time went. It’s written by an Australian author and there is some Aussie slang in there that non-Aussies probably won’t understand. I loved this book and I am looking forward to reading WHATEVER YOU DO, book 2 in the Try Again series.
For more reviews, please visit our website: www.romancebetweenthesheets.com
November 7, 2014
LEEANN'S REVIEW - 4.5 Stars
What do you do when your life as you know it comes to an abrupt holt.. When the person you are supposed to love forever is ripped away from you & is never coming back??
Fall in love with his best friend… Right???
In this book we meet Nate, Saxon & Brooke. Nate & Brooke are in love, married & ready to start their own family. Then the actions of a drunk driver changes the course of their lives forever. Nate is killed & Brooke, in her grief, hides from the world.
In walks Sexy Saxon… He pulls her from despair & shows her how to live again.. Together they struggle through their grief & begin the healing process.
Saxon & Brooke start to develop deeper feeling for each other, but Brooke cannot let go of Nate. Together they develop a pattern of existence. They learn to rely on each other to cope.. Can they have more?? Not everyone agrees with their developing relationship & they have a lot of hurdles to overcome before they can even entertain the idea of really being together.
This is a very emotional story & I will admit it did make me cry at the beginning. As the story progressed I could see the changes in Brooke as she became more self aware and more confident in herself outside of her 10 year relationship with Nate. The changes in Saxon from the beginning to the book through to the end are astounding! He just goes to show that if you really want something to work, you can unconsciously change your ways & fight with all you have to get what you want.
There were some light hearted moments & some very strong issues addressed in this book. At one point I was holding my breath & wondering how much more this woman could take!
At the end I got a bit teary again!!
I think most people will empathise with Brooke & find themselves wondering where they can get themselves a Saxon of their own!!
If you want a story line with substance & a couple that you will find yourself hoping & praying they make it to their Happy Ever After, then get yourself a copy of Wherever You Will Go, you will not be disappointed with this book!!
What do you do when your life as you know it comes to an abrupt holt.. When the person you are supposed to love forever is ripped away from you & is never coming back??
Fall in love with his best friend… Right???
In this book we meet Nate, Saxon & Brooke. Nate & Brooke are in love, married & ready to start their own family. Then the actions of a drunk driver changes the course of their lives forever. Nate is killed & Brooke, in her grief, hides from the world.
In walks Sexy Saxon… He pulls her from despair & shows her how to live again.. Together they struggle through their grief & begin the healing process.
Saxon & Brooke start to develop deeper feeling for each other, but Brooke cannot let go of Nate. Together they develop a pattern of existence. They learn to rely on each other to cope.. Can they have more?? Not everyone agrees with their developing relationship & they have a lot of hurdles to overcome before they can even entertain the idea of really being together.
This is a very emotional story & I will admit it did make me cry at the beginning. As the story progressed I could see the changes in Brooke as she became more self aware and more confident in herself outside of her 10 year relationship with Nate. The changes in Saxon from the beginning to the book through to the end are astounding! He just goes to show that if you really want something to work, you can unconsciously change your ways & fight with all you have to get what you want.
There were some light hearted moments & some very strong issues addressed in this book. At one point I was holding my breath & wondering how much more this woman could take!
At the end I got a bit teary again!!
I think most people will empathise with Brooke & find themselves wondering where they can get themselves a Saxon of their own!!
If you want a story line with substance & a couple that you will find yourself hoping & praying they make it to their Happy Ever After, then get yourself a copy of Wherever You Will Go, you will not be disappointed with this book!!
Displaying 1 - 30 of 111 reviews