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Where We Belong
One man diving into the past.
One woman emerging from the depths.
At the age of seventeen, Amelia Baide won silver at the Olympic Games. She thought nothing could tear her down. Then one tragic night she crashed into a lake and was dragged out without a pulse. Now twenty-four, she is still haunted by it and hasn’t swum again. Until this year’s anniversary of the accident. It is a day unlike any other and a strange turn of events finds Amelia back at a swimming pool.
Harry Jamieson had eyes for one girl while women and the media had eyes for him. As a trainer of Olympic athletes, he was an in-demand man. Until one boozy morning after … But from bad luck to pure chance he runs into his old flame, Amelia, at a swimming pool no less. She doesn’t remember a thing from the night of the crash.
And Harry knows every single secret.
The pair joins forces—a comeback for Amelia and Harry’s ultimate coaching opportunity. But dodging waves is hard to do, and even the strongest swimmer may sink.
Where We Belong is a second-chance love story for swimming enthusiasts and romantics at heart.
One woman emerging from the depths.
At the age of seventeen, Amelia Baide won silver at the Olympic Games. She thought nothing could tear her down. Then one tragic night she crashed into a lake and was dragged out without a pulse. Now twenty-four, she is still haunted by it and hasn’t swum again. Until this year’s anniversary of the accident. It is a day unlike any other and a strange turn of events finds Amelia back at a swimming pool.
Harry Jamieson had eyes for one girl while women and the media had eyes for him. As a trainer of Olympic athletes, he was an in-demand man. Until one boozy morning after … But from bad luck to pure chance he runs into his old flame, Amelia, at a swimming pool no less. She doesn’t remember a thing from the night of the crash.
And Harry knows every single secret.
The pair joins forces—a comeback for Amelia and Harry’s ultimate coaching opportunity. But dodging waves is hard to do, and even the strongest swimmer may sink.
Where We Belong is a second-chance love story for swimming enthusiasts and romantics at heart.
194 pages, Unknown Binding
First published February 15, 2015
5 people are currently reading
435 people want to read
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Eve Connell
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February 19, 2015
A Second Chance for Love
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Eve Connell has ONE eCopy of
WHERE WE BELONG
just waiting for ONE Lucky Winner!
International
Ends March 1, 2015
Who doesn’t want to believe in second chances at life and love? Author Eve Connell has created a tale of two people struggling to overcome past nightmares, while learning to trust in one another in the present enough to hope for a brighter future. First, they must deal with their inner demons. Where We Belong will slowly reel you in until there is nothing but you, the words of Eve Connell and a story of lost love, lost hopes and the renewed strength to push beyond all limits to re-kindle the smoldering embers of life and love.
Amelia and Harry have a shared past, but one night destroyed everything, including Amelia’s hopes as an Olympic swimmer. Fast forward and Harry comes back into her life, helping her to pick up the pieces of her shattered dreams and pushing her to her limits in the pool. Disheartened that her best now is so far off the mark of her past ability, only Harry seems to be able to push her harder and give her the incentive to dare to hope for another chance at her dreams. Will the newly formed bond they have be what Amelia needs or must they re-open the wounds of the past to fully heal and grow? With their hot and cold relationship, Amelia’s fear of “flying” and the secrets Harry holds within, they have an uphill battle for a relationship they both want. Who will be brave enough to make that final leap? Will they find open arms or a brick wall when they land? In life and swimming, the emotional tidal wave will rock their world to its core.
Eve Connell is simply brilliant in her creation of the world Amelia and Harry live in, while allowing them both to speak from their hearts, minds and souls. Each POV uncovers another layer of discovery, pain and emotion. Is either of these characters perfect? Nope, they are REAL, dimensional and act as any flawed human would. Bad decisions are made that cause more pain, but they are made with the right, if misguided intentions. The strength of Ms. Connell’s tale is in the efforts of her characters to learn to be there for each other and to allow their own weaknesses to show. The swimming venue gives a fresh slant to romantic trauma as we are shown it is okay to reach for the top, to follow a dream and to earn the rewards. Ms. Connell has done more than written a soulful contemporary romance, she has written a tale of striving to achieve one’s dreams and to accepting the joy of a second chance where the effort is the reward.
I received an ARC edition from Eve Connell in exchange for my honest review.
Publication Date: February 19, 2015
Publisher: Eve Connell
Genre: Women's Fiction | Contemporary Romance
Print Length: 266 pages
Available from: Amazon | Barnes & Noble
Reviewed for: http://tometender.blogspot.com
Click on Banner to enter
Eve Connell has ONE eCopy of
WHERE WE BELONG
just waiting for ONE Lucky Winner!
International
Ends March 1, 2015
Who doesn’t want to believe in second chances at life and love? Author Eve Connell has created a tale of two people struggling to overcome past nightmares, while learning to trust in one another in the present enough to hope for a brighter future. First, they must deal with their inner demons. Where We Belong will slowly reel you in until there is nothing but you, the words of Eve Connell and a story of lost love, lost hopes and the renewed strength to push beyond all limits to re-kindle the smoldering embers of life and love.
Amelia and Harry have a shared past, but one night destroyed everything, including Amelia’s hopes as an Olympic swimmer. Fast forward and Harry comes back into her life, helping her to pick up the pieces of her shattered dreams and pushing her to her limits in the pool. Disheartened that her best now is so far off the mark of her past ability, only Harry seems to be able to push her harder and give her the incentive to dare to hope for another chance at her dreams. Will the newly formed bond they have be what Amelia needs or must they re-open the wounds of the past to fully heal and grow? With their hot and cold relationship, Amelia’s fear of “flying” and the secrets Harry holds within, they have an uphill battle for a relationship they both want. Who will be brave enough to make that final leap? Will they find open arms or a brick wall when they land? In life and swimming, the emotional tidal wave will rock their world to its core.
Eve Connell is simply brilliant in her creation of the world Amelia and Harry live in, while allowing them both to speak from their hearts, minds and souls. Each POV uncovers another layer of discovery, pain and emotion. Is either of these characters perfect? Nope, they are REAL, dimensional and act as any flawed human would. Bad decisions are made that cause more pain, but they are made with the right, if misguided intentions. The strength of Ms. Connell’s tale is in the efforts of her characters to learn to be there for each other and to allow their own weaknesses to show. The swimming venue gives a fresh slant to romantic trauma as we are shown it is okay to reach for the top, to follow a dream and to earn the rewards. Ms. Connell has done more than written a soulful contemporary romance, she has written a tale of striving to achieve one’s dreams and to accepting the joy of a second chance where the effort is the reward.
I received an ARC edition from Eve Connell in exchange for my honest review.
Publication Date: February 19, 2015
Publisher: Eve Connell
Genre: Women's Fiction | Contemporary Romance
Print Length: 266 pages
Available from: Amazon | Barnes & Noble
Reviewed for: http://tometender.blogspot.com
Read
February 8, 2015☆ ✮ ☆TEASERS! ☆ ✮ ☆
February 18, 2015
3.5
Since I used to swim, this book brought back a lot of memories. The swimming aspect was really well done. I liked the romance too. I just felt like the writing is too general and I struggled a little bit at the start of the novel. Full review to follow!
Since I used to swim, this book brought back a lot of memories. The swimming aspect was really well done. I liked the romance too. I just felt like the writing is too general and I struggled a little bit at the start of the novel. Full review to follow!
February 21, 2015
As an Aussie, I feel like a love for swimming and for Olympic glory is somewhat ingrained in me. I am no great swimmer myself, but it's a sport I've enjoyed watching for as long as I can remember, and that enjoyment, coupled with a healthy dose of national pride, meant that this book was one I couldn't put down.
Amelia Baide's dreams crashed and drowned the night a car accident stole her life. Six years on, and a turn of events unforeseen have her finally back in the pool.
A chance meeting with Amelia was all Harry Jamieson needed to decide to get his life back on track. Since Amelia's accident, he's been adrift, swamped in the memories of what happened - of what he knows and she doesn't - but now, he's ready to ride their dream to glory.
If he can get her to agree to a comeback, if he can get a second chance at the girl he's loved for so long, they can both move past the night that destroyed everything. But what happens when the past is truly exposed?
I was so into this story. Where We Belong just kind of fascinated me in a way I'm not sure I can explain. Perhaps it was the combination of Australian life/culture/slang, the familiar locales and the fact this was an interesting, well-written and unique story. In fact, that's undoubtedly what it was.
The writing here was excellent. I actually felt a little dumb reading it, like this book was smarter than me. It's hard to explain -- it's like I couldn't follow the direction of their thoughts, the way they linked back to earlier moments. But maybe I was just so eager to get the to end, I wasn't taking in enough? Either way, I can honestly say Where We Belong was lyrical and deep and real in a way that had me wondering could have happened and what would happen.
I felt a surge of Aussie pride as I followed the Olympic dream of Amelia and Harry. I wanted victory for them. But not just in the pool. I wanted them to finally get beyond all the to-ing and fro-ing, set aside the past and make it work. The climax, the end of the book... Sigh. That's all you're getting from me. Read it and see if you agree. ~ Beth, 4.5 stars
~~~
The first teaser that I saw for Where We Belong caught my attention and then as soon as I saw another hot teaser revealing that the hero is the heroine's coach--well, it was just like: BOOM! I have to read this! I thought it was going to be taboo-y, but it really wasn't. It was beautiful and inspiring and amazing. I really enjoyed reading it!
Amelia Baide's dreams of swimming at the Olympic level and winning came to a screeching halt on September 29, 2005, when she crashed into a lake and almost lost her life forever. Ever since then, the only water she's come into contact with is shower water... until the day of her six year death anniversary leads her to her dreams and the man of her dreams once more. Harry Jamieson is that man, they have loved each other since they were young, and he pushes her to take a second chance on swimming and to take not only a chance on him as her coach, but just on him as well.
I wasn't always happy with Amelia's character, but I really did like her and respect her for the most part. She was strong and brave and fierce. Amelia was determined, persistent, focused, worked her butt off, and never gave up. I was rooting for her to win every swimming competition and I was proud of her for always giving it her all. She was an awesome heroine!
Now, while I wasn't always thrilled with Amelia, I absolutely ADORED Harry!! He was sooooo sweet and you could tell how much Amelia meant to him. He blames himself for her accident and he calls her his "atonement." I swear, sometimes this man absolutely broke my heart and just made me want to squeeze him and make him feel better! But when Harry wasn't breaking my heart, he had me swooning--I just loved him!!
Where We Belong is a beautiful story that teaches lessons, makes your heart ache a little, makes your heart race, and will give you a few laughs. It pulled out my emotions and made me somewhat crazy. I yelled and raged and smiled and laughed reading it. It was a very exciting, moving read and I loved it! I especially loved the message of not giving up on your dreams even if you lose sight of them for a little while, and that it takes a lot of hard work to reach them, but it's definitely worth it when you do.
Where We Belong is a standalone told from both Amelia and Harry's POV and the ending had me squealing and shrieking, then choking and coughing because I was so excited at how awesome it was that I forgot you don't try to swallow at the same time you breathe! So beware, remember that, and enjoy this incredible story! ~ Paige, 4.5 stars
Amelia Baide's dreams crashed and drowned the night a car accident stole her life. Six years on, and a turn of events unforeseen have her finally back in the pool.
A chance meeting with Amelia was all Harry Jamieson needed to decide to get his life back on track. Since Amelia's accident, he's been adrift, swamped in the memories of what happened - of what he knows and she doesn't - but now, he's ready to ride their dream to glory.
If he can get her to agree to a comeback, if he can get a second chance at the girl he's loved for so long, they can both move past the night that destroyed everything. But what happens when the past is truly exposed?
I was so into this story. Where We Belong just kind of fascinated me in a way I'm not sure I can explain. Perhaps it was the combination of Australian life/culture/slang, the familiar locales and the fact this was an interesting, well-written and unique story. In fact, that's undoubtedly what it was.
The writing here was excellent. I actually felt a little dumb reading it, like this book was smarter than me. It's hard to explain -- it's like I couldn't follow the direction of their thoughts, the way they linked back to earlier moments. But maybe I was just so eager to get the to end, I wasn't taking in enough? Either way, I can honestly say Where We Belong was lyrical and deep and real in a way that had me wondering could have happened and what would happen.
I felt a surge of Aussie pride as I followed the Olympic dream of Amelia and Harry. I wanted victory for them. But not just in the pool. I wanted them to finally get beyond all the to-ing and fro-ing, set aside the past and make it work. The climax, the end of the book... Sigh. That's all you're getting from me. Read it and see if you agree. ~ Beth, 4.5 stars
~~~
The first teaser that I saw for Where We Belong caught my attention and then as soon as I saw another hot teaser revealing that the hero is the heroine's coach--well, it was just like: BOOM! I have to read this! I thought it was going to be taboo-y, but it really wasn't. It was beautiful and inspiring and amazing. I really enjoyed reading it!
Amelia Baide's dreams of swimming at the Olympic level and winning came to a screeching halt on September 29, 2005, when she crashed into a lake and almost lost her life forever. Ever since then, the only water she's come into contact with is shower water... until the day of her six year death anniversary leads her to her dreams and the man of her dreams once more. Harry Jamieson is that man, they have loved each other since they were young, and he pushes her to take a second chance on swimming and to take not only a chance on him as her coach, but just on him as well.
I wasn't always happy with Amelia's character, but I really did like her and respect her for the most part. She was strong and brave and fierce. Amelia was determined, persistent, focused, worked her butt off, and never gave up. I was rooting for her to win every swimming competition and I was proud of her for always giving it her all. She was an awesome heroine!
Now, while I wasn't always thrilled with Amelia, I absolutely ADORED Harry!! He was sooooo sweet and you could tell how much Amelia meant to him. He blames himself for her accident and he calls her his "atonement." I swear, sometimes this man absolutely broke my heart and just made me want to squeeze him and make him feel better! But when Harry wasn't breaking my heart, he had me swooning--I just loved him!!
Where We Belong is a beautiful story that teaches lessons, makes your heart ache a little, makes your heart race, and will give you a few laughs. It pulled out my emotions and made me somewhat crazy. I yelled and raged and smiled and laughed reading it. It was a very exciting, moving read and I loved it! I especially loved the message of not giving up on your dreams even if you lose sight of them for a little while, and that it takes a lot of hard work to reach them, but it's definitely worth it when you do.
Where We Belong is a standalone told from both Amelia and Harry's POV and the ending had me squealing and shrieking, then choking and coughing because I was so excited at how awesome it was that I forgot you don't try to swallow at the same time you breathe! So beware, remember that, and enjoy this incredible story! ~ Paige, 4.5 stars
February 16, 2015
Where We Belong by Eve Connell tells the story of Amelia and Harry, and their bumpy path back to one another. Amelia is a former Olympic swimmer who left the pool after a horrific accident that she doesn’t remember. Harry is someone from the life Amelia had before the accident, and he’s tied into her past and present life in more ways than one.
This book initially drew me in because it’s a second chance romance. I love me a second chance romance because I love all that they’re about: second chances, trying to redo what went wrong, and fighting like crazy for everything they want.
What also drew me to Where We Belong was the aspect of swimming. Having swum competitively myself for over half my life, I was more than ready to read a book that captured the specific nuances of swimming. And let me tell you, Where We Belong delivered on that aspect and more.
Amelia is a strong and determined as all get out character. You feel that through how much she fights for what she wants, and you see it immensely with her swimming, and her fight to move forward with her life. Sure she has her vulnerable moments which make her very authentic, but at her core, her strength and determination through everything she faces defines her. It just shows the level of fight she has, and it had me having mad respect for her character.
Harry begins this book as a mystery of sorts. When I first read his character, I found myself wondering what he was really about and what he was really after. I wanted to know what got him to where he was, and over the course of the story I understood more and more of him, and as I got to know him I loved him more. With each piece I got of him I understood his motives more and why he did the things he did, and it showed me what he was truly about. Getting to know the real Harry was simply wonderful.
Throughout this book you know that Amelia and Harry’s lives were both drastically changed because of the accident. But slowly and strategically over the book you learn what actually happened, and you get more and more pieces to the puzzle. The way you find out more of the what adds to the story itself, and has your mind reeling to try and figure it out. And believe me, you may think you know what happened, but trust me, you don’t.
You can feel the connection that Harry and Amelia share with one another. You can just tell how profoundly they care for one another, and that just brings their relationship to life. You will feel how taken they are with one another in how much they fight for their shared goals, their individual ones, and in all the things they say and do. Reading their story will just show you over and over how taken they are with one another, and how far their willing to go to explore how deep their connection truly is.
I can’t say enough how much this author completely captured what it’s like to be a competitive swimmer. What it feels like to be in that water, what it’s like to compete, and what it’s like to strive for something you want so badly. She captures it all fantastically, and even if you’ve never swum a day in your life, you feel like you’re with Amelia on that block and swimming in that water towards the finish line. This author captured every single little nuance of swimming, and that just adds a magnificent and wholly authentic layer to this story.
This is a very emotional story because of the nature of what is told, and the author does a great job of puling you into those emotions. All those emotions thrust you into what you’re reading in such a wonderful way that allows you to experience the story that all of these characters go through. That level of connection and emotional pull will just pull you more into the story and to these fabulous characters.
These two characters are very resilient. It’s a characteristic that defines them both in a way. They’ve both gone through so much from their shared and individual pasts, and the resiliency that they have to try to overcome their pasts will just have you loving them. Their resiliency and their desire to fight to get over the darkness of their pasts will make you want to fight right along with them to get them right to where they want to be. That level of resiliency and how it takes shape in these characters will honestly just make your heart happy.
This is this author’s debut novel, and I have to say that her writing was fantastic. She captured both points of views wonderfully, and allows you to really step into their minds. She also writes a very intricately developed story, and her writing style just captures everything surrounding the events of this book. The writing of this book just envelops you into it all and allows you the chance to experience the competitiveness with swimming, the trauma of Amelia and Harry’s past, and the many heart racing and pulling events that make this book what it is.
Where We Belong was an overall fantastic book that tells the story of two characters fighting their pasts in order to find a future together. There are many twists and turns on their journey forcing them to give it all they got, but I promise you’re going to love seeing them attempt to figure it all out.
Amelia and Harry’s story is emotional and it’s going to pull at your heart like crazy, but you’re going to love what you experience with these two. You’re going to love seeing them attempt to navigate the bumpy waters of their past, present, and future, and you’ll be rooting with all you’ve got that they can figure out what it is that’s going on between them.
This story is about second chances, fighting for what you truly desire, and giving it all you’ve got until the very last second because in that last second, in that last fight of umph is when magic can really happen.
This book initially drew me in because it’s a second chance romance. I love me a second chance romance because I love all that they’re about: second chances, trying to redo what went wrong, and fighting like crazy for everything they want.
What also drew me to Where We Belong was the aspect of swimming. Having swum competitively myself for over half my life, I was more than ready to read a book that captured the specific nuances of swimming. And let me tell you, Where We Belong delivered on that aspect and more.
Amelia is a strong and determined as all get out character. You feel that through how much she fights for what she wants, and you see it immensely with her swimming, and her fight to move forward with her life. Sure she has her vulnerable moments which make her very authentic, but at her core, her strength and determination through everything she faces defines her. It just shows the level of fight she has, and it had me having mad respect for her character.
Harry begins this book as a mystery of sorts. When I first read his character, I found myself wondering what he was really about and what he was really after. I wanted to know what got him to where he was, and over the course of the story I understood more and more of him, and as I got to know him I loved him more. With each piece I got of him I understood his motives more and why he did the things he did, and it showed me what he was truly about. Getting to know the real Harry was simply wonderful.
Throughout this book you know that Amelia and Harry’s lives were both drastically changed because of the accident. But slowly and strategically over the book you learn what actually happened, and you get more and more pieces to the puzzle. The way you find out more of the what adds to the story itself, and has your mind reeling to try and figure it out. And believe me, you may think you know what happened, but trust me, you don’t.
You can feel the connection that Harry and Amelia share with one another. You can just tell how profoundly they care for one another, and that just brings their relationship to life. You will feel how taken they are with one another in how much they fight for their shared goals, their individual ones, and in all the things they say and do. Reading their story will just show you over and over how taken they are with one another, and how far their willing to go to explore how deep their connection truly is.
I can’t say enough how much this author completely captured what it’s like to be a competitive swimmer. What it feels like to be in that water, what it’s like to compete, and what it’s like to strive for something you want so badly. She captures it all fantastically, and even if you’ve never swum a day in your life, you feel like you’re with Amelia on that block and swimming in that water towards the finish line. This author captured every single little nuance of swimming, and that just adds a magnificent and wholly authentic layer to this story.
This is a very emotional story because of the nature of what is told, and the author does a great job of puling you into those emotions. All those emotions thrust you into what you’re reading in such a wonderful way that allows you to experience the story that all of these characters go through. That level of connection and emotional pull will just pull you more into the story and to these fabulous characters.
These two characters are very resilient. It’s a characteristic that defines them both in a way. They’ve both gone through so much from their shared and individual pasts, and the resiliency that they have to try to overcome their pasts will just have you loving them. Their resiliency and their desire to fight to get over the darkness of their pasts will make you want to fight right along with them to get them right to where they want to be. That level of resiliency and how it takes shape in these characters will honestly just make your heart happy.
This is this author’s debut novel, and I have to say that her writing was fantastic. She captured both points of views wonderfully, and allows you to really step into their minds. She also writes a very intricately developed story, and her writing style just captures everything surrounding the events of this book. The writing of this book just envelops you into it all and allows you the chance to experience the competitiveness with swimming, the trauma of Amelia and Harry’s past, and the many heart racing and pulling events that make this book what it is.
Where We Belong was an overall fantastic book that tells the story of two characters fighting their pasts in order to find a future together. There are many twists and turns on their journey forcing them to give it all they got, but I promise you’re going to love seeing them attempt to figure it all out.
Amelia and Harry’s story is emotional and it’s going to pull at your heart like crazy, but you’re going to love what you experience with these two. You’re going to love seeing them attempt to navigate the bumpy waters of their past, present, and future, and you’ll be rooting with all you’ve got that they can figure out what it is that’s going on between them.
This story is about second chances, fighting for what you truly desire, and giving it all you’ve got until the very last second because in that last second, in that last fight of umph is when magic can really happen.
March 8, 2015
I was kindly gifted a copy by the author for an honest review.
Oh. My. Gosh. THIS BOOK! Just so many feels!! It's just so, so, beautiful and heart felt and up-lifting!! I felt so damn good when I finished the book, I don't think I've ever smiled so hard - *insert a happy crying face here*
Amelia Baide was once the second fastest woman in the pool and won an Olympic Silver Medal as a teenager. All set to become the next greatest thing her life was going, well, swimmingly. But after one fatal night her world drastically changed.
Now 24 she hasn't set a foot in the water since that night 6 years ago - crashing into a lake and drowning has made the one thing she loved her ultimate fear. Nightmares of that night, the night she died for several long minutes and lost everything, haunt her everyday and she now merely goes through the motions of her life but isn't truly living it.
Harry Jamieson was one of Amelia's bestfriends and teammates - he was there cheering her on and supporting her for as long as she can remember but after that night she never saw him again.
Unlike Amelia, Harry can remember everything about that night in the lake and his guilt has eaten away at him ever since. Like Amelia he too hasn't set foot in the pool and now stands firmly on the edge training other Olympic hopefuls. With him being in high demand his life was going well until one drunken night goes a step too far and now he's losing contracts thick and fast.
With both of them still drowning in the past a chance encounter brings them back together. Now back in his life Harry can't let go of her again and offers her the chance of a life time - to train with him and live her Olympic dream.
The two begin a journey of intensive training and get closer by the day. But Amelia is still in the dark about what really happened that night and Harry knows every sordid detail. When it all finally comes to the surface will Amelia be able to face the truth or will she find herself drowning in helplessness and despair once again?
Harry and Amelia's connection runs deep both in and out of the pool - the highs and lows of their relationship make for a beautiful read. This is truly a tale of second chances, determination and hope - that even when you feel like you have nothing left you keep fighting until the bitter end.
This story is a remarkable read told brilliantly from both Harry's and Amelia's points of view. Each character had their own troubles and heartache but together they fought for each other and the dream they thought they'd lost all those years ago. You will laugh and you will most definitely cry but throughout it all you'll be rooting for these two right up until the last page. Every competition Amelia competes in feels like you're there on the side lines cheering her on and when Harry is watching her from the side of the pool you'll feel his excitement and nerves as your own.
Any true romantics at heart or swimming enthusiasts will adore this book. The secrets about that fateful night are slowly drip fed to us over the course of the story and will have you enraptured until its all out in the open. But most importantly its a story of second chances - in life and love. It will teach you that not matter how bad it gets, no matter what stands in your way, you have to fight for what you believe in, for what your heart truly desires.
A story that will suck you in and capture your heart, this second chance romance will leave you reeling. Inspiring, beautiful and heartfelt - Where We Belong has it all. Just make sure you have some tissues, chocolate and wine on standby, you'll need them.
Oh. My. Gosh. THIS BOOK! Just so many feels!! It's just so, so, beautiful and heart felt and up-lifting!! I felt so damn good when I finished the book, I don't think I've ever smiled so hard - *insert a happy crying face here*
Amelia Baide was once the second fastest woman in the pool and won an Olympic Silver Medal as a teenager. All set to become the next greatest thing her life was going, well, swimmingly. But after one fatal night her world drastically changed.
Now 24 she hasn't set a foot in the water since that night 6 years ago - crashing into a lake and drowning has made the one thing she loved her ultimate fear. Nightmares of that night, the night she died for several long minutes and lost everything, haunt her everyday and she now merely goes through the motions of her life but isn't truly living it.
Harry Jamieson was one of Amelia's bestfriends and teammates - he was there cheering her on and supporting her for as long as she can remember but after that night she never saw him again.
Unlike Amelia, Harry can remember everything about that night in the lake and his guilt has eaten away at him ever since. Like Amelia he too hasn't set foot in the pool and now stands firmly on the edge training other Olympic hopefuls. With him being in high demand his life was going well until one drunken night goes a step too far and now he's losing contracts thick and fast.
With both of them still drowning in the past a chance encounter brings them back together. Now back in his life Harry can't let go of her again and offers her the chance of a life time - to train with him and live her Olympic dream.
The two begin a journey of intensive training and get closer by the day. But Amelia is still in the dark about what really happened that night and Harry knows every sordid detail. When it all finally comes to the surface will Amelia be able to face the truth or will she find herself drowning in helplessness and despair once again?
Harry and Amelia's connection runs deep both in and out of the pool - the highs and lows of their relationship make for a beautiful read. This is truly a tale of second chances, determination and hope - that even when you feel like you have nothing left you keep fighting until the bitter end.
This story is a remarkable read told brilliantly from both Harry's and Amelia's points of view. Each character had their own troubles and heartache but together they fought for each other and the dream they thought they'd lost all those years ago. You will laugh and you will most definitely cry but throughout it all you'll be rooting for these two right up until the last page. Every competition Amelia competes in feels like you're there on the side lines cheering her on and when Harry is watching her from the side of the pool you'll feel his excitement and nerves as your own.
Any true romantics at heart or swimming enthusiasts will adore this book. The secrets about that fateful night are slowly drip fed to us over the course of the story and will have you enraptured until its all out in the open. But most importantly its a story of second chances - in life and love. It will teach you that not matter how bad it gets, no matter what stands in your way, you have to fight for what you believe in, for what your heart truly desires.
A story that will suck you in and capture your heart, this second chance romance will leave you reeling. Inspiring, beautiful and heartfelt - Where We Belong has it all. Just make sure you have some tissues, chocolate and wine on standby, you'll need them.
March 18, 2015
Amelia Baide was on the cusp of greatness at the tender age of 17. She was a talented swimmer of nearly historical proportions poised for the best that was undoubtedly yet to come from her. She harbored a crush on another swimmer on her squad, Harry Jamieson. Unbeknownst to her, Harry reciprocated those feelings, but in their youthful immaturity, neither spoke up and a friend of Harry’s, Kristopher Siddall, made a move instead. Harry, the golden boy of the team, was relegated to friend. That is, until the night of the accident.
At a party, events unfolded causing Amelia to leave distraught and angry. She sped away, with Harry and Kristopher hot on her heels. Amelia’s car flipped over an embankment and submerged into a lake. Long minutes passed until Harry dragged her lifeless body to surface. They didn’t speak again for 6 long years, Amelia trapped in her memories of that night, and Harry, caught up in his love for Amelia, is overcome with guilt and drowning himself in booze and women.
Six years to the day after that night, Amelia and Harry run into each other in the most unlikely of places. The connection between them is still there, but can they overcome their history to make a new future – one they both so desperately want and need?
Amelia and Harry have much to overcome. She remembers nothing of that night; Harry knows everything. Neither one of them has swum since that night, but Harry is now a renowned swimming coach. Harry, seeing his chance to redeem himself in her eyes, convinces her to train with him, and Amelia, wanting a chance to overcome her past, agrees.
Amelia is engaged to Kristopher, but that relationship has been all but over for her for a while. Kristopher is harboring his own secrets from that night, and her renewed friendship with Harry threatens them. He does not want Amelia to swim again, and he certainly doesn’t want her to spend time with Harry.
Amelia had so much to overcome, so much to get through, both in the pool and out of it. She handled each wave, and used them to feed her determination to face the next one. Such a strong and focused woman, she was perhaps the most driven heroine I have ever read. Harry was anchored to his guilt. He recognized his chance at redemption in Amelia and he took it. But that wasn’t all. Harry loved Amelia, and his soul cried out for her. He only ever saw the greatness in her, and he wanted, more than anything, to return her to her former glory.
While they worked hard in the pool, they also worked through their issues and their past. Connell doled out their tragic history to her readers in bits and pieces. This, actually, was my only issue with the book. I wished that the revelations of their past and what happened that night were given to us in larger chunks. By the time I had the entire story of what happened that night, I had difficulty recalling all of the details.
Overall, this was a phenomenal book, and I enjoyed it immensely. Clearly Ms. Connell did a tremendous amount of research into competitive swimming as the attention to detail on this aspect of the story was incredible. I found myself on the edge of my seat, tapping my Kindle furiously to turn pages, during Amelia’s meets, such was the excitement that Connell created around them. She made my heart ache for all the pain this young couple had to endure before they got the glory of their happy ending. Beautifully written, equally devastating and inspirational, Connell has given her readers a very poignant story about the strength of the human spirit, perseverance and true love in her debut novel.
A solid 4 smooches from me!
~ Danielle Palumbo
At a party, events unfolded causing Amelia to leave distraught and angry. She sped away, with Harry and Kristopher hot on her heels. Amelia’s car flipped over an embankment and submerged into a lake. Long minutes passed until Harry dragged her lifeless body to surface. They didn’t speak again for 6 long years, Amelia trapped in her memories of that night, and Harry, caught up in his love for Amelia, is overcome with guilt and drowning himself in booze and women.
Six years to the day after that night, Amelia and Harry run into each other in the most unlikely of places. The connection between them is still there, but can they overcome their history to make a new future – one they both so desperately want and need?
Amelia and Harry have much to overcome. She remembers nothing of that night; Harry knows everything. Neither one of them has swum since that night, but Harry is now a renowned swimming coach. Harry, seeing his chance to redeem himself in her eyes, convinces her to train with him, and Amelia, wanting a chance to overcome her past, agrees.
Amelia is engaged to Kristopher, but that relationship has been all but over for her for a while. Kristopher is harboring his own secrets from that night, and her renewed friendship with Harry threatens them. He does not want Amelia to swim again, and he certainly doesn’t want her to spend time with Harry.
Amelia had so much to overcome, so much to get through, both in the pool and out of it. She handled each wave, and used them to feed her determination to face the next one. Such a strong and focused woman, she was perhaps the most driven heroine I have ever read. Harry was anchored to his guilt. He recognized his chance at redemption in Amelia and he took it. But that wasn’t all. Harry loved Amelia, and his soul cried out for her. He only ever saw the greatness in her, and he wanted, more than anything, to return her to her former glory.
While they worked hard in the pool, they also worked through their issues and their past. Connell doled out their tragic history to her readers in bits and pieces. This, actually, was my only issue with the book. I wished that the revelations of their past and what happened that night were given to us in larger chunks. By the time I had the entire story of what happened that night, I had difficulty recalling all of the details.
Overall, this was a phenomenal book, and I enjoyed it immensely. Clearly Ms. Connell did a tremendous amount of research into competitive swimming as the attention to detail on this aspect of the story was incredible. I found myself on the edge of my seat, tapping my Kindle furiously to turn pages, during Amelia’s meets, such was the excitement that Connell created around them. She made my heart ache for all the pain this young couple had to endure before they got the glory of their happy ending. Beautifully written, equally devastating and inspirational, Connell has given her readers a very poignant story about the strength of the human spirit, perseverance and true love in her debut novel.
A solid 4 smooches from me!
~ Danielle Palumbo
February 11, 2015
I have to admit that the first thing that caught my attention was the beautiful cover. It was the synopsis however that had me intrigued about this book. For me, the concept of this book was all too fascinating since we rarely come across stories that involve swimming, competitive swimming at that! And just as I expected this book was everything that I could have hoped for and so much more!
There were so many elements that I enjoyed about this story. The most important of which was the heroine – Amelia Baide. She was so close to obtaining her Olympic Gold but after a tragic accident she could barely look at a pool again. At the seventh anniversary of the incident however, it was as if fate guides her back and she finds herself where she belongs.
Everything seemed to fall right into place, providing her with another opportunity to fulfill her goals. She was out of shape and was lacking on time (not to mention the personal issues she was going through too) but even if she had all those odds stacked against her she wasn’t letting go of this dream. I could not help but be inspired by her perseverance and admire her for drive and her determination.
Guiding her along the way was her coach Harry Jamieson. From the very beginning their relationship was what I would describe as “complicated”. They always had this “thing” even way back when but never acted upon it. Now that they were older and more mature, the feelings between them evolved into so much more but there’s a catch…Amelia is already in a relationship and Harry has this secrets about her accident that he isn’t privy to share.
I would have to say that this was another reason that I was became so enraptured in this story. I was anxious to know what these life-changing secrets were and how they would affect Amelia. I was also curious how this complicated relationship between Amelia had with her coach would affect her training. She was so focused though it seemed that no matter what came her way she could take it headon without a backward glance. Again this was how great her character was.
One more reason I found compelling about this story were the details added in with regards to professional swimming. I’ve personally watched plenty competitions but never realized just how intense training was or how stressful the actual competitions could be. Some may think that these elements are tedious and boring but the author balanced those elements well into the romance making it further complimentary to the overall story.
I thought the writing was terrific. It was good enough to where I felt pulled so deep into Amelia’s world to the point where when she was in competition I could feel her restlessness and her also excitement. Having my own heart racing, it felt I was right there with her – with my fingers crossed, hoping and wishing that she out swam her personal best. This gift is something so rare in debut authors that I can not express just how excited I am to see where she goes from here.
I immensely enjoyed this inspirational story that undoubtedly would appeal to romance readers looking for a book about acceptance, forgiveness and second chances both in life and in love.
For an Author Interview and Giveaway Click HERE
There were so many elements that I enjoyed about this story. The most important of which was the heroine – Amelia Baide. She was so close to obtaining her Olympic Gold but after a tragic accident she could barely look at a pool again. At the seventh anniversary of the incident however, it was as if fate guides her back and she finds herself where she belongs.
Everything seemed to fall right into place, providing her with another opportunity to fulfill her goals. She was out of shape and was lacking on time (not to mention the personal issues she was going through too) but even if she had all those odds stacked against her she wasn’t letting go of this dream. I could not help but be inspired by her perseverance and admire her for drive and her determination.
Guiding her along the way was her coach Harry Jamieson. From the very beginning their relationship was what I would describe as “complicated”. They always had this “thing” even way back when but never acted upon it. Now that they were older and more mature, the feelings between them evolved into so much more but there’s a catch…Amelia is already in a relationship and Harry has this secrets about her accident that he isn’t privy to share.
I would have to say that this was another reason that I was became so enraptured in this story. I was anxious to know what these life-changing secrets were and how they would affect Amelia. I was also curious how this complicated relationship between Amelia had with her coach would affect her training. She was so focused though it seemed that no matter what came her way she could take it headon without a backward glance. Again this was how great her character was.
One more reason I found compelling about this story were the details added in with regards to professional swimming. I’ve personally watched plenty competitions but never realized just how intense training was or how stressful the actual competitions could be. Some may think that these elements are tedious and boring but the author balanced those elements well into the romance making it further complimentary to the overall story.
I thought the writing was terrific. It was good enough to where I felt pulled so deep into Amelia’s world to the point where when she was in competition I could feel her restlessness and her also excitement. Having my own heart racing, it felt I was right there with her – with my fingers crossed, hoping and wishing that she out swam her personal best. This gift is something so rare in debut authors that I can not express just how excited I am to see where she goes from here.
I immensely enjoyed this inspirational story that undoubtedly would appeal to romance readers looking for a book about acceptance, forgiveness and second chances both in life and in love.
For an Author Interview and Giveaway Click HERE
February 18, 2015
Love amidst laps…
Amelia Baide is twenty-four years old and seems very young to have lived the life she’s already led. From the heights of winning silver at the Olympics when she was only seventeen, only a few years later she won’t go near a swimming pool. A tragedy kept her away from the sport she loved and running from a tragedy she didn't remember. One she didn't want to remember. Harry Jamieson was part of that past and knows full well what happened that night. He was a successful swimming coach but has lost a lot while struggling with his own demons.
While no longer romantically involved, fate steps in to reunite them both inside, and outside, of the swimming lanes. Of course, life is not that simple, and the road to healing means they first must reconcile the past.
This full-length, stand-alone novel is a second-chance love story set within the competitive world of elite swimming. Amelia and Harry are both struggling with the hand they've been dealt and don’t always make the best choices. Amelia is engaged and the relationship is not an easy one. She is having doubts and meeting Harry again stirs the turmoil even more. Amelia’s wavering and indecisiveness, while bringing tension and drama to the story, is not always understandable. I enjoyed the writing style and the intimate look behind the scenes of championship swimming. I will definitely keep my eye out for more by this author.
Amelia Baide is twenty-four years old and seems very young to have lived the life she’s already led. From the heights of winning silver at the Olympics when she was only seventeen, only a few years later she won’t go near a swimming pool. A tragedy kept her away from the sport she loved and running from a tragedy she didn't remember. One she didn't want to remember. Harry Jamieson was part of that past and knows full well what happened that night. He was a successful swimming coach but has lost a lot while struggling with his own demons.
While no longer romantically involved, fate steps in to reunite them both inside, and outside, of the swimming lanes. Of course, life is not that simple, and the road to healing means they first must reconcile the past.
This full-length, stand-alone novel is a second-chance love story set within the competitive world of elite swimming. Amelia and Harry are both struggling with the hand they've been dealt and don’t always make the best choices. Amelia is engaged and the relationship is not an easy one. She is having doubts and meeting Harry again stirs the turmoil even more. Amelia’s wavering and indecisiveness, while bringing tension and drama to the story, is not always understandable. I enjoyed the writing style and the intimate look behind the scenes of championship swimming. I will definitely keep my eye out for more by this author.
August 24, 2015
Eve Connell got me with that synopsis. Teacher/trainee romance? HELL YES. SIGN ME UP. This story was so of my liking. Amelia and Harry’s relationship was like a drop of fresh water [laughs]. And yet all the hardships and all the pain they had to endure to get to that point killed me. The story itself was pretty awesome and so cute I wanted to keep living in that world.
I love me some sports books so much you know it. I had never read about a swimmer but after this I’M ALL OVER IT. LIKE I WANT TO KEEP READING MORE. SWIMMING BOOKS ARE SO HOT GUYS I DIDN’T KNOW THIS. Just thinking about the book makes me have the goofiest smile on my face I swear. But I think what I like more is their partnership, the whole trainer/trainee (I don’t know if I’m writing that term right) they trust each other so much, I mean their partnership, you ROOT FOR THEM EVERY DAMN SINGLE TIME. And yeah of course I was rooting for them to kiss and “please hold hands or touch her neck or something” but when they were in the pool, it was magical. I loved it. I loved the experience it brought me, this book YOU GUYS IT’S SO WORTH IT.
Eve Connell’s writing- I want to keep reading more from her. And this book was only the beginning.
I love me some sports books so much you know it. I had never read about a swimmer but after this I’M ALL OVER IT. LIKE I WANT TO KEEP READING MORE. SWIMMING BOOKS ARE SO HOT GUYS I DIDN’T KNOW THIS. Just thinking about the book makes me have the goofiest smile on my face I swear. But I think what I like more is their partnership, the whole trainer/trainee (I don’t know if I’m writing that term right) they trust each other so much, I mean their partnership, you ROOT FOR THEM EVERY DAMN SINGLE TIME. And yeah of course I was rooting for them to kiss and “please hold hands or touch her neck or something” but when they were in the pool, it was magical. I loved it. I loved the experience it brought me, this book YOU GUYS IT’S SO WORTH IT.
Eve Connell’s writing- I want to keep reading more from her. And this book was only the beginning.
February 10, 2015
Kindle Copy for Review
Amelia Baidle at seventeen won a silver medal for swimming at the Olympics but afterwards one tragic night things quickly changed. She almost drowned in a lake and has not swim for almost seven years as the anniversary of the accident approaches. It is a day which finds herself in a pool swimming as things are about to change once again.
Harry Jamieson has always been attracted to Amelia but as a trainer for Olympic athletes he has not seen her since the almost tragic accident. When they accident meet, he realizes that she has no memory of the accident which lead her to almost drowning in the lake.
Harry offers to be Amelia’s coach as a part of him feels responsible for her accident. As they spend time together, will their past and present feelings come to surface? Can these two regain what they once had and be able to move forward despite her volatile engagement with the person responsible for her accident?
Amelia Baidle at seventeen won a silver medal for swimming at the Olympics but afterwards one tragic night things quickly changed. She almost drowned in a lake and has not swim for almost seven years as the anniversary of the accident approaches. It is a day which finds herself in a pool swimming as things are about to change once again.
Harry Jamieson has always been attracted to Amelia but as a trainer for Olympic athletes he has not seen her since the almost tragic accident. When they accident meet, he realizes that she has no memory of the accident which lead her to almost drowning in the lake.
Harry offers to be Amelia’s coach as a part of him feels responsible for her accident. As they spend time together, will their past and present feelings come to surface? Can these two regain what they once had and be able to move forward despite her volatile engagement with the person responsible for her accident?
February 18, 2015
*ARC provided by Eve Connell via NetGalley*
*3 Generous Stars*
Not bad for a debut novel.
The book has a good story, a sweet couple, drama, some serious misunderstandings and it teaches us that second chances don't come easily, so you got to make the most of it when you get them.
I struggled so much to get past the first 30% of the book, but I don't like to leave a book unfinished, so I finished it and I'm not sorry I did.
Being a swimmer myself, I really wanted to love this book, but it just didn't happen for me. I'm not saying the book was bad, just that it lacked... something. At least for me, so I couldn't give it more than 3 stars because it just didn't reach my expectations.
But that's just my opinion, so go ahead, read it and share your thoughts :)
***
*3 Generous Stars*
Not bad for a debut novel.
The book has a good story, a sweet couple, drama, some serious misunderstandings and it teaches us that second chances don't come easily, so you got to make the most of it when you get them.
I struggled so much to get past the first 30% of the book, but I don't like to leave a book unfinished, so I finished it and I'm not sorry I did.
Being a swimmer myself, I really wanted to love this book, but it just didn't happen for me. I'm not saying the book was bad, just that it lacked... something. At least for me, so I couldn't give it more than 3 stars because it just didn't reach my expectations.
But that's just my opinion, so go ahead, read it and share your thoughts :)
***
February 19, 2015
I received this for an honest review. I have to say that I thought this book was done very well for a debut author!!!
This book was a great story of second chances and fighting for your dreams and finding that one person who is the person you are meant to be with..
Amelia and Harry make an awesome team in and out of the pool... This for me was a very good read and I cant wait to see what comes next for this author...
This book was a great story of second chances and fighting for your dreams and finding that one person who is the person you are meant to be with..
Amelia and Harry make an awesome team in and out of the pool... This for me was a very good read and I cant wait to see what comes next for this author...
September 6, 2022
Years ago after a tragic accident Amelia gave up her love of swimming. She is now living a life that doesn't seem like her own. Stuck in a relationship with a fiance that doesn't appreciate her, isn't very nice to her, and most of all unfaithful. So on the day of the six year anniversary of the accident, Amelia finds herself at a pool. And who does she run into, but her old coach Harry. Harry is also going through a harder time in his life, he is searching for something but instead leaves a wake of self destruction, and irresponsible decisions and behavior. Once Harry sees Amelia, he knows there is no going back and he must get her back in the water. He wants her to start training again, fight her demons of the accident and allow himself back into her life.
I enjoyed the premise of the story, there was some real promise there for me. But I got lost part of the way in, too much was going on and I started to lose the basis of what was happening. I was never able to quite connect with the characters. I liked that Amelia refused to give up, she was truly a good heroine, but I tired of the Kristopher drama, of her going back and forth. Lastly, the love scenes had me, but then a bit of the description had me cringe and completely turned me off. I was thrilled for an HEA because I couldn't have taken another turn to leave me with a cliffhanger!
If you are a swimmer you will most likely really enjoy that aspect, as well as the athlete's struggle to keep going.
I enjoyed the premise of the story, there was some real promise there for me. But I got lost part of the way in, too much was going on and I started to lose the basis of what was happening. I was never able to quite connect with the characters. I liked that Amelia refused to give up, she was truly a good heroine, but I tired of the Kristopher drama, of her going back and forth. Lastly, the love scenes had me, but then a bit of the description had me cringe and completely turned me off. I was thrilled for an HEA because I couldn't have taken another turn to leave me with a cliffhanger!
If you are a swimmer you will most likely really enjoy that aspect, as well as the athlete's struggle to keep going.
March 27, 2015
Amelia Blade has issues old and new. The present issues are she is in a loveless relationship to a guy she is engaged to. It seems they are together out of habit and comfort as in they know the good and bad of the relationship. They don’t have to work at it and the comfort in they don’t have to go out and look for anyone else until they are ready or one fell in their lap.
Yet, Amelia knew that something was missing considering that Kristopher Siddall, her fiancé, would rather be out with his friends than with her. It was another anniversary with him and he was once again trying to push her buttons to get out of spending it with her. Last year he had spent it with the BOYS, his POSSE, and the GUYS! So, when after asking several times if he had gotten everything he needed out of the bathroom and was he finished in there and him saying he had. He started pounding on the door the minute she was about to put her foot into the shower wanting his after shave Making her livid. She tells him he will have to wait he pounds louder and harder.
He basically acts like a two year old. Yelling that it would only take her a minute and that she was being a baby for just not handing it out. That finally made her break. She threw on her clothes, threw open the door and told him he could have the whole damn thing bathroom and all. She grabbed her keys and purse and left. She drove until she ran out of gas. She ends up walking back to a place about a mile back.
When she gets to the area she is hot, sweaty, and thirsty. She sees the swim arena and decides that it had been 6 years to long since she had been in a pool after her accident where she almost drowned and died. Well she did die but we won’t get into that. She runs into someone that she use to swim with and he greets her and offers her some swim gear. She goes in and puts it on it takes her a few tries to finally get in but when she does it is heaven in a lot of ways and hell in others.
Meanwhile, that same morning Harry Jamieson is once again waking up in an unfamiliar room. Except this one looks like Barney exploded everywhere there were so many varying shades of purple. The worst of it is he couldn’t remember the name of the chick he was in bed with. He thought it was Vivienne or Vivienna or was it Vicky. He crawls out of her bed to use the restroom looks back in at her and says something about her being, a little crazy, purple Vivienna. Then stopped himself when looking at her he noticed how young she was and how he hoped she was at least of age.
I guess he not only finds out her age, her first and last name, but who her daddy is. He also learns that just because someone looks like they’re asleep doesn’t mean that they really are. Turns out her daddy is the leading sponsor that owns his contract for the ads, commercials, etc… that he does to make a living. Now he calls to yell at Benny his agent. Who wants to meet with him out of town where they can talk without any press or others to get in their business? They happen to meet you guessed it at the same swim arena where Amelia takes her first swim.
See where they go from here…because now they have a past that needs to be dealt with and a future to look forward too if they can work it out. She is now of age to make her own decisions. That’s only if the truth of the past can truly be revealed and the actors in the nightmares of her past life can tell the truth about her accident before and after. So far Harry is the only one wanting to reveal all yet Amelia is not ready and the other two have issues.
This is an amazingly complex story with a great deal of issues that pose a great deal of thought about each character. The thing I liked best is that the universe felt that Amelia and Harry had healed enough be bring them to the point of reconnecting them. They were both stronger than they knew and ever were when they were when they were younger. This is a must read. I give this 5 stars. Provided by Net Galley. Follow us at: www. 1rad-readerreveiws.com
Yet, Amelia knew that something was missing considering that Kristopher Siddall, her fiancé, would rather be out with his friends than with her. It was another anniversary with him and he was once again trying to push her buttons to get out of spending it with her. Last year he had spent it with the BOYS, his POSSE, and the GUYS! So, when after asking several times if he had gotten everything he needed out of the bathroom and was he finished in there and him saying he had. He started pounding on the door the minute she was about to put her foot into the shower wanting his after shave Making her livid. She tells him he will have to wait he pounds louder and harder.
He basically acts like a two year old. Yelling that it would only take her a minute and that she was being a baby for just not handing it out. That finally made her break. She threw on her clothes, threw open the door and told him he could have the whole damn thing bathroom and all. She grabbed her keys and purse and left. She drove until she ran out of gas. She ends up walking back to a place about a mile back.
When she gets to the area she is hot, sweaty, and thirsty. She sees the swim arena and decides that it had been 6 years to long since she had been in a pool after her accident where she almost drowned and died. Well she did die but we won’t get into that. She runs into someone that she use to swim with and he greets her and offers her some swim gear. She goes in and puts it on it takes her a few tries to finally get in but when she does it is heaven in a lot of ways and hell in others.
Meanwhile, that same morning Harry Jamieson is once again waking up in an unfamiliar room. Except this one looks like Barney exploded everywhere there were so many varying shades of purple. The worst of it is he couldn’t remember the name of the chick he was in bed with. He thought it was Vivienne or Vivienna or was it Vicky. He crawls out of her bed to use the restroom looks back in at her and says something about her being, a little crazy, purple Vivienna. Then stopped himself when looking at her he noticed how young she was and how he hoped she was at least of age.
I guess he not only finds out her age, her first and last name, but who her daddy is. He also learns that just because someone looks like they’re asleep doesn’t mean that they really are. Turns out her daddy is the leading sponsor that owns his contract for the ads, commercials, etc… that he does to make a living. Now he calls to yell at Benny his agent. Who wants to meet with him out of town where they can talk without any press or others to get in their business? They happen to meet you guessed it at the same swim arena where Amelia takes her first swim.
See where they go from here…because now they have a past that needs to be dealt with and a future to look forward too if they can work it out. She is now of age to make her own decisions. That’s only if the truth of the past can truly be revealed and the actors in the nightmares of her past life can tell the truth about her accident before and after. So far Harry is the only one wanting to reveal all yet Amelia is not ready and the other two have issues.
This is an amazingly complex story with a great deal of issues that pose a great deal of thought about each character. The thing I liked best is that the universe felt that Amelia and Harry had healed enough be bring them to the point of reconnecting them. They were both stronger than they knew and ever were when they were when they were younger. This is a must read. I give this 5 stars. Provided by Net Galley. Follow us at: www. 1rad-readerreveiws.com
February 19, 2015
Where We Belong, Eve Connell
Genre: Contemporary romance.
Review from Jeannie Zelos book reviews
First thing to say is..I’m not a swimmer, and yet I really enjoyed the swimming parts of this read, from the training where Amelia struggled in the beginning, to the timed trials and competitions. Of course the actual times meant little to me except to show how quickly she was improving, and when she was second – or got that magic first by a fraction of a second. Its a really fun and at times exciting read for those who know nothing about swimming, so don’t be put off if like me you don’t swim.
Amelia had worked so hard from such a young age to get so far ahead in the swimming world, and then it all crashed down when she had a horrific car accident, and was underwater for several minutes, actually clinically dead for a while...so she hasn’t swum since or had contact with anyone from that time, except her fiancé Kristopher. It’s now six years later and they’ve been having problems for months though, and she’s struggling. He was such a jerk I just wondered what she ever saw in him but maybe, just maybe he was different before? Well, to her anyway, because he seems just the same to me... Then by a coincidence she happens to go into a gym to get a cool drink, they recognise her and offer her a swim and all the clothes she needs for it. She doesn’t want to but still respects the fans who were so positive for her, feels she can’t let the gym down when they’re being so kind, so she actually does it and of course on the way out she bumps into Harry....
Harry: when they were training she idolised him, had done since they were young, and then after the accident where he was involved they’d never seen each other again. He spent some time in prison over the accident and somehow both have shied away from reconnecting even though they were really close. Meeting like this is a shock to them both, and they briefly chat. The guy who first recognised her tells her he’s arranging a party for his father, someone both she and Harry respect from the swimming scene, and they say they’ll attend. That starts an avalanche of events that culminate in them getting back together as trainer and coach, and stepping cautiously around their attraction. Of course there’s secrets to come out – huge ones, her relationship with Kristopher who was involved in the crash too, and events surrounding just prior to that. The big question is – this time can Amelia and Harry make things work between them. As a reader I was so rooting for them, it was clear they both had a deep seated respect for each other, as well as a sensual, tangible attraction but the secrets...could they get past them and would the past stay there or reveal the ugly side of what happened? There’s some shocking revelations, casting everyone she knows in a different light and Kristopher, angry at their breakup, does his best to stir up trouble leading to some real danger for Amelia.
Its a great read, I felt her body aching when training started, her elation when swimming went well, and her despair when everything toppled down. Its a fun, easy read, and has some sensual moments and plenty of excitement. I didn’t guess exactly what had happened and parts came as a real shock.
Stars: Five, a great read which I greatly enjoyed but probably a one off for me.
ARC provided by Netgalley and publishers.
March 4, 2015
AMY'S REVIEW:
Rating - 3.75 Stars
I am such a sucker for second chance romance and this book was right up my alley! I enjoyed this story of personal struggle, heartache and above all else determination. I loved that the story was set in another country. It gave me the chance to open my mind as a reader and experience something new. This book was written in both the main characters point of views which is awesome to read. It’s like 2 books in one.
The characters in this book were adorable. Meeting at such a young age and growing up together offers the best friendship and background for a future. Having a commonality just solidifies that. The fact that Eve had them swimming was great. It’s not a story line that I have read before and it was refreshing. I loved how the author drew me into that sport and world these characters were immersed in. I loved the competitive side of Amelia and Harry! She so unsure and he so confident it made for a great team. I appreciated the spirit that these two had and their love for the sport.
I enjoyed this book. It was an easy read for me and it was packed full of great story. It wasn’t to angsty and harsh. The story seemed to flow well and the transitions were easy. I liked the different POVs from the characters and felt that that was a nice touch to the book. I would give this a solid 3.75 stars
FIDAH'S REVIEW:
Rating - 3 Stars
Where We Belong is a story filled with misunderstandings and second chances. The story is split into different parts and told from two different perspectives, Amelia and Harry. Diving into this book, I was really looking forward to reading this book. I was excited to see how our characters’ lives and relationships would weave in the whole story. However, I did not enjoy this book as much as I would have loved to. Wait a minute, I’m not saying that the book was bad. In fact, it was pretty good but I did have quite a few problems with it.
Mia and Harry were involved in a tragic accident 6 years ago that impacted their lives and shaped them. They gave up some of the important things that were dear to them. As we slowly got to uncover the truth as to how the whole accident happened, I felt overwhelmed and a little cheated. I’m not sure what else to say about it. Other than that, I wasn’t a huge fan of some of the choices that the characters made. Mia was engaged and I wished she had handled her relationship with her fiancé better. She should have ended things because you could clearly tell that her feelings for Harry wasn’t platonic at all.
There were some redeeming factors to the book that really made it a good read. I liked the story behind the book. Dealing with misunderstandings can be rather difficult especially when it’s been buried for several years. It’s like you’ve buried an old wound and believing that you’re fine, to only reopen that hurt again and be exposed. It sucks. I liked the drive and passion behind the characters. This book wasn’t only a love story. It was also about passion which is very inspiring.
As I’ve mentioned, Where We Belong was an interested and great read. I would recommend this book to anyone who loves new adult that deals with second chances, misunderstandings and forgiveness.
Rating - 3.75 Stars
I am such a sucker for second chance romance and this book was right up my alley! I enjoyed this story of personal struggle, heartache and above all else determination. I loved that the story was set in another country. It gave me the chance to open my mind as a reader and experience something new. This book was written in both the main characters point of views which is awesome to read. It’s like 2 books in one.
The characters in this book were adorable. Meeting at such a young age and growing up together offers the best friendship and background for a future. Having a commonality just solidifies that. The fact that Eve had them swimming was great. It’s not a story line that I have read before and it was refreshing. I loved how the author drew me into that sport and world these characters were immersed in. I loved the competitive side of Amelia and Harry! She so unsure and he so confident it made for a great team. I appreciated the spirit that these two had and their love for the sport.
I enjoyed this book. It was an easy read for me and it was packed full of great story. It wasn’t to angsty and harsh. The story seemed to flow well and the transitions were easy. I liked the different POVs from the characters and felt that that was a nice touch to the book. I would give this a solid 3.75 stars
FIDAH'S REVIEW:
Rating - 3 Stars
Where We Belong is a story filled with misunderstandings and second chances. The story is split into different parts and told from two different perspectives, Amelia and Harry. Diving into this book, I was really looking forward to reading this book. I was excited to see how our characters’ lives and relationships would weave in the whole story. However, I did not enjoy this book as much as I would have loved to. Wait a minute, I’m not saying that the book was bad. In fact, it was pretty good but I did have quite a few problems with it.
Mia and Harry were involved in a tragic accident 6 years ago that impacted their lives and shaped them. They gave up some of the important things that were dear to them. As we slowly got to uncover the truth as to how the whole accident happened, I felt overwhelmed and a little cheated. I’m not sure what else to say about it. Other than that, I wasn’t a huge fan of some of the choices that the characters made. Mia was engaged and I wished she had handled her relationship with her fiancé better. She should have ended things because you could clearly tell that her feelings for Harry wasn’t platonic at all.
There were some redeeming factors to the book that really made it a good read. I liked the story behind the book. Dealing with misunderstandings can be rather difficult especially when it’s been buried for several years. It’s like you’ve buried an old wound and believing that you’re fine, to only reopen that hurt again and be exposed. It sucks. I liked the drive and passion behind the characters. This book wasn’t only a love story. It was also about passion which is very inspiring.
As I’ve mentioned, Where We Belong was an interested and great read. I would recommend this book to anyone who loves new adult that deals with second chances, misunderstandings and forgiveness.
February 19, 2015
Amelia was on her way to the Olympics when everything changed one horrible night. Now six years later her life is about to change again. She is engaged to Kristopher but they are not happy like they should be. They are comfortable but that’s about it. On the anniversary of the day Amelia died she has a fight with Kristopher, leaves the house without much of a plan. She runs out of gas and the only choice is to walk. When she gets to civilization there is an aquatic center. Amelia hasn’t been swimming since her accident. An old friend from her swimming days works at the aquatic center and shoves gear at her. She changes and comes face to face with the pool. What is one more swim? One more swim to bring a close to that part of her life. Once she hits the water she realizes how much she misses it, how it makes her feel alive and whole. Then after changing back into her regular clothing she runs into another old friend Harry. He brings a set of totally different feelings for her. Harry can hardly believe his eye when he spots Mia. They are invited to a party at their old coaches house this coming weekend, both say they will try to attend. Harry goes to the party the whole time looking for Mia. He finally texts her and goes to get her. He won’t pass up this chance to reconnect with her. Back at the party a video is shown of all the kids the coach has coached. Mia runs out after seeing herself in the video. Harry follows her and then makes her an offer. He wants to train her. She isn’t sure at first, but he says they will take it slow. She was made to swim. So she agrees. Who know that this one choice would change her whole life again? Is Amelia ready for the things she will learn? Will her old feelings for Harry return? Does he feel the same about her?
I really liked this book a lot. Amelia is so strong but doesn’t even realize it at first. She has fallen into this boring complacent life. After her accident she didn’t remember hardly anything that happened and Kristopher was more than happy for that fact and that she didn’t want to swim anymore. Harry’s life changed that night also. He still blames himself for everything that happened. I personally think Kristopher is a douchcanoe, but you can make up your own mind;) This story was inspirational. The way Amelia comes back to life when she starts swimming again. I felt really sad for her as things came to light during the book. She has basically lived the last six years not knowing what truly happened or what lead up to the accident. The characters were wonderfully written and engaging. I was sucked into the story. I will be looking for other books by this author.
I was given this book in return for an honest review.
I really liked this book a lot. Amelia is so strong but doesn’t even realize it at first. She has fallen into this boring complacent life. After her accident she didn’t remember hardly anything that happened and Kristopher was more than happy for that fact and that she didn’t want to swim anymore. Harry’s life changed that night also. He still blames himself for everything that happened. I personally think Kristopher is a douchcanoe, but you can make up your own mind;) This story was inspirational. The way Amelia comes back to life when she starts swimming again. I felt really sad for her as things came to light during the book. She has basically lived the last six years not knowing what truly happened or what lead up to the accident. The characters were wonderfully written and engaging. I was sucked into the story. I will be looking for other books by this author.
I was given this book in return for an honest review.
March 25, 2015
SNS Rating: 4.16
~~~~~~~~~~Zarah's ★★★½✰ Review~~~~~~~~~~
Amelia was a swimmer set for Olympic glory, until and accident one night shattered all hops for this and plunged her into a world of just existing. Harry, was her team mate and was also there the night of the accident and due to deep rooted guilt, he also has not been back in the water since that fateful night, instead concentrating on Coaching, womanizing and getting himself into trouble. There are a lot of secrets surrounding that night that dashed two of Australia's Swimming superstars dreams, but they find each other and Harry talks Amelia into getting back in the pool and training to be the swimming star she was meant to me. It was all very "Lisa Curry-Kenny" on the comeback side of things so many years later and having to compete with younger, faster and stronger kids and be ready in time for nationals and Olympic selection.
The story was fairly predictable in that they fall for each other, have issues and when the secrets and hurts are finally revealed they have to work through them. I found it a little boring myself and being Australian myself, getting into reading an Australian book was a little difficult - just so used to even other AU authors adapting their books for the US market.
Not a bad read.
~~~~~~~~~~Sara's ★★★★✰ Review~~~~~~~~~~
What an amazing story. I love Amelia and Harry’s story. Amelia was an Olympic swimmer until one day she almost drowns now she hasn't been able to swim in a long time. Harry was a trainer for the Olympics and has always liked Amelia. A chance encounter brings them together again and Harry discovers that Amelia doesn't remember what happened to cause the accident. Harry blames himself but to be close to Amelia offers to be her coach. They come together and secrets are revealed. Read the book to see if they can overcome the past to have a future.
~~~~~~~~~~Dee's ★★★★★ Review~~~~~~~~~~
This story gives us a close and personal look into the life of a professional swimmer. I learned about the tremendous dedication to their vision, the determination to endure the physical pain of training, the drive to push forward and the importance of emotional support. Amelia returned to the grueling physical training after six and a half years with deep emotional wounds and a ton of unanswered questions and secrets. The secrets are revealed at an agonizingly slow rate, just a piece at a time. Overall, the story is captivating, full of mystery and very enjoyable. I was given this book in exchange for an honest review. I highly recommend this book. Five Stars.
~~~~~~~~~~Zarah's ★★★½✰ Review~~~~~~~~~~
Amelia was a swimmer set for Olympic glory, until and accident one night shattered all hops for this and plunged her into a world of just existing. Harry, was her team mate and was also there the night of the accident and due to deep rooted guilt, he also has not been back in the water since that fateful night, instead concentrating on Coaching, womanizing and getting himself into trouble. There are a lot of secrets surrounding that night that dashed two of Australia's Swimming superstars dreams, but they find each other and Harry talks Amelia into getting back in the pool and training to be the swimming star she was meant to me. It was all very "Lisa Curry-Kenny" on the comeback side of things so many years later and having to compete with younger, faster and stronger kids and be ready in time for nationals and Olympic selection.
The story was fairly predictable in that they fall for each other, have issues and when the secrets and hurts are finally revealed they have to work through them. I found it a little boring myself and being Australian myself, getting into reading an Australian book was a little difficult - just so used to even other AU authors adapting their books for the US market.
Not a bad read.
~~~~~~~~~~Sara's ★★★★✰ Review~~~~~~~~~~
What an amazing story. I love Amelia and Harry’s story. Amelia was an Olympic swimmer until one day she almost drowns now she hasn't been able to swim in a long time. Harry was a trainer for the Olympics and has always liked Amelia. A chance encounter brings them together again and Harry discovers that Amelia doesn't remember what happened to cause the accident. Harry blames himself but to be close to Amelia offers to be her coach. They come together and secrets are revealed. Read the book to see if they can overcome the past to have a future.
~~~~~~~~~~Dee's ★★★★★ Review~~~~~~~~~~
This story gives us a close and personal look into the life of a professional swimmer. I learned about the tremendous dedication to their vision, the determination to endure the physical pain of training, the drive to push forward and the importance of emotional support. Amelia returned to the grueling physical training after six and a half years with deep emotional wounds and a ton of unanswered questions and secrets. The secrets are revealed at an agonizingly slow rate, just a piece at a time. Overall, the story is captivating, full of mystery and very enjoyable. I was given this book in exchange for an honest review. I highly recommend this book. Five Stars.
February 19, 2015
Reviewed by Dawn Vickers on behalf of Kindle Friends Forever.
Seven years ago Amelia was an Olympic swimmer. She’d won a silver medal as she was the second fastest woman in the pool. One night everything changed. She had an accident and was dragged from a lake never to swim again. Now aged twenty-four, she still suffers, she’s still afraid to get back into the water, and she still can’t really remember much. She has a fiancé but she’s not happy. He doesn't seem to care or understand her.
On the sixth anniversary of her accident, she finds herself at a pool and who does she meet? Harry! Harry was her swimming partner and friend. He had always fought his attraction for Amelia, and hadn't seen her since that tragic night. He’s fighting his own demons. He hasn't gotten back into the water either and now is a coach who prefers training swimmers rather than being one.
When Harry meets Amelia again at the pool, it’s clear to him that she doesn't remember that night or what happened. He decides to offer to train her and get her back into the water where she belongs. Even though she isn't in shape, with Harry’s guidance, she starts to feel alive again and determined to get back to the top of her game. Feelings between Harry and Amelia are coming back to life. There had always been something but it was never acted upon. Does Harry have secrets of that night and Mia — is she engaged to Kristopher? Their connection to each other is solid and it’s not just because swimming is involved. Harry is there every step of the way; cheering her on from the side of the pool as she competes.
When secrets and lies are finally revealed, will Amelia be able to cope or will she slip away from her life and swimming once again? Will Harry get to be with Amelia, facing the demons of their pasts and move on together? Set in the world of swimming it’s a story of second chances, misunderstandings, overcoming fears, and fighting for what you want and of course, finding love. It’s told from a joint point of view, beautifully written and emotional so you may even require some tissues!!
This is Eve's debut novel and I think she’s done fantastically well and I look forward to more from her in the future.
Seven years ago Amelia was an Olympic swimmer. She’d won a silver medal as she was the second fastest woman in the pool. One night everything changed. She had an accident and was dragged from a lake never to swim again. Now aged twenty-four, she still suffers, she’s still afraid to get back into the water, and she still can’t really remember much. She has a fiancé but she’s not happy. He doesn't seem to care or understand her.
On the sixth anniversary of her accident, she finds herself at a pool and who does she meet? Harry! Harry was her swimming partner and friend. He had always fought his attraction for Amelia, and hadn't seen her since that tragic night. He’s fighting his own demons. He hasn't gotten back into the water either and now is a coach who prefers training swimmers rather than being one.
When Harry meets Amelia again at the pool, it’s clear to him that she doesn't remember that night or what happened. He decides to offer to train her and get her back into the water where she belongs. Even though she isn't in shape, with Harry’s guidance, she starts to feel alive again and determined to get back to the top of her game. Feelings between Harry and Amelia are coming back to life. There had always been something but it was never acted upon. Does Harry have secrets of that night and Mia — is she engaged to Kristopher? Their connection to each other is solid and it’s not just because swimming is involved. Harry is there every step of the way; cheering her on from the side of the pool as she competes.
When secrets and lies are finally revealed, will Amelia be able to cope or will she slip away from her life and swimming once again? Will Harry get to be with Amelia, facing the demons of their pasts and move on together? Set in the world of swimming it’s a story of second chances, misunderstandings, overcoming fears, and fighting for what you want and of course, finding love. It’s told from a joint point of view, beautifully written and emotional so you may even require some tissues!!
This is Eve's debut novel and I think she’s done fantastically well and I look forward to more from her in the future.
February 20, 2015
*** I was gifted a copy of the book in exchange for an honest review ***
**I give this book 3.5 stars**
This book appealed to me not only because I like second chance romances but I was a rather keen swimmer and was on the school swim and dive team at school, and I knew that I would relate to the anticipation of a race, nerves and the buzz of cutting through the water, trying to use each breath as much as possible so not to waste the energy or time taking a breath.
Our main Character is Amelia Baide, a Silver medalist in the Olympics her life was turned upside down the night she crashed into a lake and drowned. Now 6 years later a chance meeting with her old friend and fellow swim mate Harry Jamieson means that fate is about to give her the chance to reach for the stars again.
Harry has also gone off the rails, he has a lot of secrets regarding the night Amelia died, but survived, a night that she doesn't really remember other than the nightmares and the knowledge of what she's learnt from others. When they meet again, Harry realises that he has a second chance to help her gain what she has lost but also redeem his part in the accident.
The storyline has a few complicated twists, to keep you intrigued and interested, I did at some points wish that they would stop pussy footing around and talk to each other, but in the end the slow build up to their relationship was to be honest truthful.
As the pair realise their dream at competing - the jealous ex fiancee sticks his oar in and causes stress when it was least needed, giving the angst and suspense to the otherwise - swimming training story.
I did enjoy getting to know the characters, and Eve has done a great job with the pair, both having flaws, but that together they are strong and determined to train to beat the world...
Whether they succeed - well you will have to read the book to find out.
I enjoyed this book and I look forward to seeing what other books Eve Connell writes.
**I give this book 3.5 stars**
This book appealed to me not only because I like second chance romances but I was a rather keen swimmer and was on the school swim and dive team at school, and I knew that I would relate to the anticipation of a race, nerves and the buzz of cutting through the water, trying to use each breath as much as possible so not to waste the energy or time taking a breath.
Our main Character is Amelia Baide, a Silver medalist in the Olympics her life was turned upside down the night she crashed into a lake and drowned. Now 6 years later a chance meeting with her old friend and fellow swim mate Harry Jamieson means that fate is about to give her the chance to reach for the stars again.
Harry has also gone off the rails, he has a lot of secrets regarding the night Amelia died, but survived, a night that she doesn't really remember other than the nightmares and the knowledge of what she's learnt from others. When they meet again, Harry realises that he has a second chance to help her gain what she has lost but also redeem his part in the accident.
The storyline has a few complicated twists, to keep you intrigued and interested, I did at some points wish that they would stop pussy footing around and talk to each other, but in the end the slow build up to their relationship was to be honest truthful.
As the pair realise their dream at competing - the jealous ex fiancee sticks his oar in and causes stress when it was least needed, giving the angst and suspense to the otherwise - swimming training story.
I did enjoy getting to know the characters, and Eve has done a great job with the pair, both having flaws, but that together they are strong and determined to train to beat the world...
Whether they succeed - well you will have to read the book to find out.
I enjoyed this book and I look forward to seeing what other books Eve Connell writes.
February 17, 2015
Where We Belong is a story filled with misunderstandings and second chances. The story is split into different parts and told from two different perspectives, Amelia and Harry. Diving into this book, I was really looking forward to reading this book. I was excited to see how our characters’ lives and relationships would weave in the whole story. However, I did not enjoy this book as much as I would have loved to. Wait a minute, I’m not saying that the book was bad. In fact, it was pretty good but I did have quite a few problems with it.
Mia and Harry were involved in a tragic accident 6 years ago that impacted their lives and shaped them. They gave up some of the important things that were dear to them. As we slowly got to uncover the truth as to how the whole accident happened, I felt overwhelmed and a little cheated. I’m not sure what else to say about it. Other than that, I wasn’t a huge fan of some of the choices that the characters made. Mia was engaged and I wished she had handled her relationship with her fiancé better. She should have ended things because you could clearly tell that her feelings for Harry wasn’t platonic at all.
There were some redeeming factors to the book that really made it a good read. I liked the story behind the book. Dealing with misunderstandings can be rather difficult especially when it’s been buried for several years. It’s like you’ve buried an old wound and believing that you’re fine, to only reopen that hurt again and be exposed. It sucks. I liked the drive and passion behind the characters. This book wasn’t only a love story. It was also about passion which is very inspiring.
As I’ve mentioned, Where We Belong was an interested and great read. I would recommend this book to anyone who loves new adult that deals with second chances, misunderstandings and forgiveness.
Mia and Harry were involved in a tragic accident 6 years ago that impacted their lives and shaped them. They gave up some of the important things that were dear to them. As we slowly got to uncover the truth as to how the whole accident happened, I felt overwhelmed and a little cheated. I’m not sure what else to say about it. Other than that, I wasn’t a huge fan of some of the choices that the characters made. Mia was engaged and I wished she had handled her relationship with her fiancé better. She should have ended things because you could clearly tell that her feelings for Harry wasn’t platonic at all.
There were some redeeming factors to the book that really made it a good read. I liked the story behind the book. Dealing with misunderstandings can be rather difficult especially when it’s been buried for several years. It’s like you’ve buried an old wound and believing that you’re fine, to only reopen that hurt again and be exposed. It sucks. I liked the drive and passion behind the characters. This book wasn’t only a love story. It was also about passion which is very inspiring.
As I’ve mentioned, Where We Belong was an interested and great read. I would recommend this book to anyone who loves new adult that deals with second chances, misunderstandings and forgiveness.
March 10, 2015
Where We Belong was a sweet read. I admit, at times I found it hard and quite confusing to get into the story, and sometimes I was getting a bit bored but overall, it was a pretty nice story.
I actually really liked the characters. Both Amelia and Harry are very dedicated people with the same goal: swimming. What I found the most interesting was how they could kind of think the same way, they shared the same mind. They understood each other and that's what made them a great pairing. I liked reading the parts about them as a couple, they are a truly sweet one.
I also liked the other most entertaining thing in the book, which was the training and competing of Amelia with Harry. Reading about Amelia's swimming events, how she felt and how she acted, it was like being there with her and feeling it too. I wanted her to succeed as much as they did. She managed to reach her goals and she did it while getting better and better, it was pretty awesome.
What they all went through was a challenge that they had to overcome and with time, they did it. Mistakes were made, but a good deal of forgiveness and understanding made it all better.
With the addition of the jackass that was Kristopher, we've gotten a pretty great story.
So, overall, I give Where We Belong 3.5 stars. I liked it.
I actually really liked the characters. Both Amelia and Harry are very dedicated people with the same goal: swimming. What I found the most interesting was how they could kind of think the same way, they shared the same mind. They understood each other and that's what made them a great pairing. I liked reading the parts about them as a couple, they are a truly sweet one.
I also liked the other most entertaining thing in the book, which was the training and competing of Amelia with Harry. Reading about Amelia's swimming events, how she felt and how she acted, it was like being there with her and feeling it too. I wanted her to succeed as much as they did. She managed to reach her goals and she did it while getting better and better, it was pretty awesome.
What they all went through was a challenge that they had to overcome and with time, they did it. Mistakes were made, but a good deal of forgiveness and understanding made it all better.
With the addition of the jackass that was Kristopher, we've gotten a pretty great story.
So, overall, I give Where We Belong 3.5 stars. I liked it.
“I’m making things right between us. I know I’m six years too late, but I am spending the next sixty—or however many I live—making you feel like the happiest woman on earth.”
“You’ve always been a lot taller than me. Even when we were kids, you hugged me with tenderness—enough to breathe, but enough that I never wanted to take another breath without you. Sometimes I hate that you’re the best hugger in the world.”
February 25, 2015
**4.5 Stars**
I really enjoyed this book. It gave me great company on a long flight to Los Angeles. So, my thanks to the author for providing me with an ARC for an honest review.
This book was actually not what I expected when I signed up to review it, but that's definitely not a bad thing. The swimming aspect was an out-of-the-ordinary one for me, and I liked that in a book world where it's so hard to break the mold. I liked the storyline, I liked the characters - particularly Amelia because she was such a strong female character despite what she'd been through - and I liked the flow of the book. Executing skips in time effectively to hit the important points without too much filler is a difficult task and a common critique I find myself making. This author did a great job with flow and timeline, so kudos to her.
My biggest critique and the reason for 4.5 rather than 5 stars is that there were times when I read lines repeatedly and still had a hard time deciphering them. It wasn't very frequently and it could have been from the difference between American English and Australian English, but it made parts confusing. Also, I was pretty far into the book before I figured out that the story was set in Australia. I could tell the difference in the English, but the setting was unclear in the beginning. That could have been an oversight on my part if plane distractions caused me to overlook it, but I kept waiting for it to tell me where it was all taking place. Aside from these and some minor editing issues (which are all very, very small critiques), this was an excellent book, and I thoroughly enjoyed it. I definitely recommend it, especially for those who enjoy sports romances.
I really enjoyed this book. It gave me great company on a long flight to Los Angeles. So, my thanks to the author for providing me with an ARC for an honest review.
This book was actually not what I expected when I signed up to review it, but that's definitely not a bad thing. The swimming aspect was an out-of-the-ordinary one for me, and I liked that in a book world where it's so hard to break the mold. I liked the storyline, I liked the characters - particularly Amelia because she was such a strong female character despite what she'd been through - and I liked the flow of the book. Executing skips in time effectively to hit the important points without too much filler is a difficult task and a common critique I find myself making. This author did a great job with flow and timeline, so kudos to her.
My biggest critique and the reason for 4.5 rather than 5 stars is that there were times when I read lines repeatedly and still had a hard time deciphering them. It wasn't very frequently and it could have been from the difference between American English and Australian English, but it made parts confusing. Also, I was pretty far into the book before I figured out that the story was set in Australia. I could tell the difference in the English, but the setting was unclear in the beginning. That could have been an oversight on my part if plane distractions caused me to overlook it, but I kept waiting for it to tell me where it was all taking place. Aside from these and some minor editing issues (which are all very, very small critiques), this was an excellent book, and I thoroughly enjoyed it. I definitely recommend it, especially for those who enjoy sports romances.
February 16, 2015
Where We Belong by Eve Connell
I received a complimentary copy for an honest review.
Years ago after a tragic accident Amelia gave up her love of swimming. She is now living a life that doesn't seem like her own. Stuck in a relationship with a fiance that doesn't appreciate her, isn't very nice to her, and most of all unfaithful. So on the day of the six year anniversary of the accident, Amelia finds herself at a pool. And who does she run into, but her old coach Harry. Harry is also going through a harder time in his life, he is searching for something but instead leaves a wake of self destruction, and irresponsible decisions and behavior. Once Harry sees Amelia, he knows there is no going back and he must get her back in the water. He wants her to start training again, fight her demons of the accident and allow himself back into her life.
I enjoyed the premise of the story, there was some real promise there for me. But I got lost part of the way in, too much was going on and I started to lose the basis of what was happening. I was never able to quite connect with the characters. I liked that Amelia refused to give up, she was truly a good heroine, but I tired of the Kristopher drama, of her going back and forth. Lastly, the love scenes had me, but then a bit of the description had me cringe and completely turned me off. I was thrilled for an HEA because I couldn't have taken another turn to leave me with a cliffhanger!
If you are a swimmer you will most likely really enjoy that aspect, as well as the athlete's struggle to keep going.
I received a complimentary copy for an honest review.
Years ago after a tragic accident Amelia gave up her love of swimming. She is now living a life that doesn't seem like her own. Stuck in a relationship with a fiance that doesn't appreciate her, isn't very nice to her, and most of all unfaithful. So on the day of the six year anniversary of the accident, Amelia finds herself at a pool. And who does she run into, but her old coach Harry. Harry is also going through a harder time in his life, he is searching for something but instead leaves a wake of self destruction, and irresponsible decisions and behavior. Once Harry sees Amelia, he knows there is no going back and he must get her back in the water. He wants her to start training again, fight her demons of the accident and allow himself back into her life.
I enjoyed the premise of the story, there was some real promise there for me. But I got lost part of the way in, too much was going on and I started to lose the basis of what was happening. I was never able to quite connect with the characters. I liked that Amelia refused to give up, she was truly a good heroine, but I tired of the Kristopher drama, of her going back and forth. Lastly, the love scenes had me, but then a bit of the description had me cringe and completely turned me off. I was thrilled for an HEA because I couldn't have taken another turn to leave me with a cliffhanger!
If you are a swimmer you will most likely really enjoy that aspect, as well as the athlete's struggle to keep going.
February 23, 2015
Where We Belong is an inspirational and most compelling story of its kind. Readers who fell in love with The Fault in Our Stars will fall in love with this incredible novel written by Eve Connell. Seventeen year-old Amelia Baide was the second fastest swimmer until the fatal accident in which she crashed into a lake and pulled out without a pulse. This has since caused the exceptional swimmer to stay away for swimming until strange events leave her at a swimming pool once more. Harry Jamieson has had his heart set out for only one woman, Amelia Baide. The night of the fatal crash they both shared a moment that only Harry remembers. Every single secret moment of it is still a vivid memory for him. But will Amelia eventually remember that moment too? And where then will that leave them both?
Where We Belong is a novel that will move the hearts and minds of many. I enjoyed reading this spectacular novel written by Eve Connell. Her talents have led her to creating this stunning and memorable masterpiece. I could not stop reading this novel, until I finished every chapter. The characters are realistic and believable beyond what words can say. Every reader will feel drawn deep into the story plot following Amelia and her journey through the anniversary of that one horrific event in her life. Every reader has to read this story. A beautifully told story with a powerful message that all readers won't want to miss. Overall, I highly recommend this novel to everyone and give it a full five stars.
Where We Belong is a novel that will move the hearts and minds of many. I enjoyed reading this spectacular novel written by Eve Connell. Her talents have led her to creating this stunning and memorable masterpiece. I could not stop reading this novel, until I finished every chapter. The characters are realistic and believable beyond what words can say. Every reader will feel drawn deep into the story plot following Amelia and her journey through the anniversary of that one horrific event in her life. Every reader has to read this story. A beautifully told story with a powerful message that all readers won't want to miss. Overall, I highly recommend this novel to everyone and give it a full five stars.
February 19, 2015
Years ago after a tragic accident Amelia gave up her love of swimming. She is now living a life that doesn't seem like her own. Stuck in a relationship with a fiance that doesn't appreciate her, isn't very nice to her, and most of all unfaithful. So on the day of the six year anniversary of the accident, Amelia finds herself at a pool. And who does she run into, but her old coach Harry. Harry is also going through a harder time in his life, he is searching for something but instead leaves a wake of self destruction, and irresponsible decisions and behavior. Once Harry sees Amelia, he knows there is no going back and he must get her back in the water. He wants her to start training again, fight her demons of the accident and allow himself back into her life.
I enjoyed the premise of the story, there was some real promise there for me. But I got lost part of the way in, too much was going on and I started to lose the basis of what was happening. I was never able to quite connect with the characters. I liked that Amelia refused to give up, she was truly a good heroine, but I tired of the Kristopher drama, of her going back and forth. Lastly, the love scenes had me, but then a bit of the description had me cringe and completely turned me off. I was thrilled for an HEA because I couldn't have taken another turn to leave me with a cliffhanger!
If you are a swimmer you will most likely really enjoy that aspect, as well as the athlete's struggle to keep going.
I enjoyed the premise of the story, there was some real promise there for me. But I got lost part of the way in, too much was going on and I started to lose the basis of what was happening. I was never able to quite connect with the characters. I liked that Amelia refused to give up, she was truly a good heroine, but I tired of the Kristopher drama, of her going back and forth. Lastly, the love scenes had me, but then a bit of the description had me cringe and completely turned me off. I was thrilled for an HEA because I couldn't have taken another turn to leave me with a cliffhanger!
If you are a swimmer you will most likely really enjoy that aspect, as well as the athlete's struggle to keep going.
Read
February 24, 2015Amelia has experienced so much tragedy in her life, but she can't remember the night that mattered the most. She tried to move past it, she even thought she was getting better until she ran into Harry again. When he propositioned her to become a swimmer again she realized how much she truly gave up that night. As Amelia and Harry get closer again in and out of the pool the only thing that is certain is that a relationship as strong as theirs is meant to last.
Harry has been struggling in life ever since the night he almost lost Amelia. When he runs into her six years later he can't control his desires anymore. They had an everlasting friendship that makes it seem as if they weren't apart for so long, but he wants more than that this time around. He gets her back into a pool and competing, his goal is to get her to the Olympics. The only problem is that the past doesn't want to stay hidden, and Harry has all the answers about what really happened the night of accident. A night that left them both traumatized, and a night that can tear them apart again.
I really enjoyed this book. I think my favorite thing about this book was the strength and determination both main characters had. They were trying to let go of the past and move forward together, also while trying to reach a common goal. I think this book was just a beautiful read that a lot of readers will love.
Harry has been struggling in life ever since the night he almost lost Amelia. When he runs into her six years later he can't control his desires anymore. They had an everlasting friendship that makes it seem as if they weren't apart for so long, but he wants more than that this time around. He gets her back into a pool and competing, his goal is to get her to the Olympics. The only problem is that the past doesn't want to stay hidden, and Harry has all the answers about what really happened the night of accident. A night that left them both traumatized, and a night that can tear them apart again.
I really enjoyed this book. I think my favorite thing about this book was the strength and determination both main characters had. They were trying to let go of the past and move forward together, also while trying to reach a common goal. I think this book was just a beautiful read that a lot of readers will love.
February 24, 2015
Review posted at: http://bookcrushbookreviews.com/2015/...
Rating: 3 stars
Amelia was an Olympic swimmer and she hasn't swam since the night she died. Harry was Amelia's friend, fellow swimmer, and now he's a coach. He hasn't swam since that night either and he has secrets about true events from the night Amelia drowned. The plot flowed smoothly and the character development allows for you to connect with the characters. We get POVs from Amelia and Harry so we know their unspoken thoughts and intentions behind their decisions. I had difficulty with the Australian lingo, but caught on a little more halfway through my read. I enjoyed seeing the fire build inside Amelia to set goals for herself and her drive to achieve them. Harry's matching enthusiasm, if not more than Amelia's had me rooting for him the whole way through the novel. There's lots of secrets behind "that night" and I was hoping for a reveal of said secrets sooner than what occurred. What I wished would've been more realistic is Amelia's training schedule, as we're informed she has a job, yet seems to always be training of having down time. Harry is a saving knight. This is a novel of forgiveness, love, and reaching for our dreams. Give Harry a try and find your next book crush!
Rating: 3 stars
Amelia was an Olympic swimmer and she hasn't swam since the night she died. Harry was Amelia's friend, fellow swimmer, and now he's a coach. He hasn't swam since that night either and he has secrets about true events from the night Amelia drowned. The plot flowed smoothly and the character development allows for you to connect with the characters. We get POVs from Amelia and Harry so we know their unspoken thoughts and intentions behind their decisions. I had difficulty with the Australian lingo, but caught on a little more halfway through my read. I enjoyed seeing the fire build inside Amelia to set goals for herself and her drive to achieve them. Harry's matching enthusiasm, if not more than Amelia's had me rooting for him the whole way through the novel. There's lots of secrets behind "that night" and I was hoping for a reveal of said secrets sooner than what occurred. What I wished would've been more realistic is Amelia's training schedule, as we're informed she has a job, yet seems to always be training of having down time. Harry is a saving knight. This is a novel of forgiveness, love, and reaching for our dreams. Give Harry a try and find your next book crush!
March 17, 2015
I am such a sucker for second chance romance and this book was right up my alley! I enjoyed this story of personal struggle, heartache and above all else determination. I loved that the story was set in another country. It gave me the chance to open my mind as a reader and experience something new. This book was written in both the main characters point of views which is awesome to read. It’s like 2 books in one.
The characters in this book were adorable. Meeting at such a young age and growing up together offers the best friendship and background for a future. Having a commonality just solidifies that. The fact that Eve had them swimming was great. It’s not a story line that I have read before and it was refreshing. I loved how the author drew me into that sport and world these characters were immersed in. I loved the competitive side of Amelia and Harry! She so unsure and he so confident it made for a great team. I appreciated the spirit that these two had and their love for the sport.
I enjoyed this book. It was an easy read for me and it was packed full of great story. It wasn’t to angsty and harsh. The story seemed to flow well and the transitions were easy. I liked the different POVs from the characters and felt that that was a nice touch to the book. I would give this a solid 3.75 stars.
The characters in this book were adorable. Meeting at such a young age and growing up together offers the best friendship and background for a future. Having a commonality just solidifies that. The fact that Eve had them swimming was great. It’s not a story line that I have read before and it was refreshing. I loved how the author drew me into that sport and world these characters were immersed in. I loved the competitive side of Amelia and Harry! She so unsure and he so confident it made for a great team. I appreciated the spirit that these two had and their love for the sport.
I enjoyed this book. It was an easy read for me and it was packed full of great story. It wasn’t to angsty and harsh. The story seemed to flow well and the transitions were easy. I liked the different POVs from the characters and felt that that was a nice touch to the book. I would give this a solid 3.75 stars.
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