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Look After You #1
Look After You
The birth of your firstborn child is supposed to be the best day of your life.
Well, that’s what twenty-eight-year-old Ava Jacobson thought.
Instead, she has to sit back and watch her daughter fight for her life, while her fiancé is fighting a messy war in Afghanistan.
As her vulnerability hits an all-time low, she finds comfort in an unexpected pair of intense, green eyes.
Eyes that belong to her daughter's doctor, Dr. Ashton Bailey.
Although she tries to fight against her new-found feelings for Ashton, the pull between the two is so strong it proves impossible for her to stay away.
When Ava is convinced things can’t get any worse, a single call changes everything, with news that will irreversibly shake her world forever.
Warning: Recommended for ages 18+ due to heavy subject matters of rape and suicide. Also includes violence, explicit language and sexual situations.
Well, that’s what twenty-eight-year-old Ava Jacobson thought.
Instead, she has to sit back and watch her daughter fight for her life, while her fiancé is fighting a messy war in Afghanistan.
As her vulnerability hits an all-time low, she finds comfort in an unexpected pair of intense, green eyes.
Eyes that belong to her daughter's doctor, Dr. Ashton Bailey.
Although she tries to fight against her new-found feelings for Ashton, the pull between the two is so strong it proves impossible for her to stay away.
When Ava is convinced things can’t get any worse, a single call changes everything, with news that will irreversibly shake her world forever.
Warning: Recommended for ages 18+ due to heavy subject matters of rape and suicide. Also includes violence, explicit language and sexual situations.
308 pages, Kindle Edition
First published April 3, 2014
189 people are currently reading
1133 people want to read
About the author
Elena Matthews
18 books249 followersReceptionist by day, author by night, Elena Matthews is from Manchester, United Kingdom, the home of Manchester United, MediaCity, and of course, Coronation Street. When Elena isn’t writing, she can be found with her nose in a book or watching guilty pleasures, such as Grey’s Anatomy. And, when she isn’t doing those things, you can often find her on Facebook, or obsessing over Kellan Kyle, book-boyfriend extraordinaire.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 136 reviews
May 6, 2014
I really should have read better the reviews about this book. It is a well written book, the characters are real and there is a story there.
I just can never justify cheating. Yes we are human, yes we make mistakes. Sebastian however is just such a loveable character, that has grown so much and has given so much for Ava that is heartbreaking to know he is fighting for his country and his girl is jumping in someone else's arms.
yes, I have sympathy for Ava and her pain and the fact she needs someone. Still not justifiable.
And what made me mad is Ashton saying that Sebastian does not love Ava enough because he is fighting for his country instead of being with her. Have respect !!!!! These men sacrifice every day, they often miss birthdays, births, deaths and so much of their lives to defend us. They sacrifice to keep us safe. They are heroes who should be truly commended for making choices that are heartbreaking to give us the gift of freedom.
Don't date one, don't get pregnant, don't get engaged if you can not understand that their sacrifice means yours too as a girlfriend. You have to know that loving them comes with a cost. A cost that is worth it to the right people.
And Sebastian called her almost every day, never quit saying he loved her, gave up serving another term to be there for both of them.
Yes ..... he did love her the right way... but apparently Ava was not mature enough to appreciate that.
None of us are perfect so I can't say I don't appreciate everyone's battle. But I definitely can never agree with the words said about Sebastian and the cheating behind his back.
Yikes..... how sad :(
I just can never justify cheating. Yes we are human, yes we make mistakes. Sebastian however is just such a loveable character, that has grown so much and has given so much for Ava that is heartbreaking to know he is fighting for his country and his girl is jumping in someone else's arms.
yes, I have sympathy for Ava and her pain and the fact she needs someone. Still not justifiable.
And what made me mad is Ashton saying that Sebastian does not love Ava enough because he is fighting for his country instead of being with her. Have respect !!!!! These men sacrifice every day, they often miss birthdays, births, deaths and so much of their lives to defend us. They sacrifice to keep us safe. They are heroes who should be truly commended for making choices that are heartbreaking to give us the gift of freedom.
Don't date one, don't get pregnant, don't get engaged if you can not understand that their sacrifice means yours too as a girlfriend. You have to know that loving them comes with a cost. A cost that is worth it to the right people.
And Sebastian called her almost every day, never quit saying he loved her, gave up serving another term to be there for both of them.
Yes ..... he did love her the right way... but apparently Ava was not mature enough to appreciate that.
None of us are perfect so I can't say I don't appreciate everyone's battle. But I definitely can never agree with the words said about Sebastian and the cheating behind his back.
Yikes..... how sad :(
May 11, 2014
I don't know why I tortured myself by finishing this book, but I did and now finishing it I went from disliking the heroine to full blown hatred. Blaming her infidelity on her fiancée,(who, by the way, is at war, fighting for their country) she has an affair while her premature daughter is in hospital. She's all about her daughter constantly by her daughters side, then has sex with the doctor who is obviously not her child's father, and spends more time with the doctor then her own child. Bravo. Selfish little beeeeeeeeeeep.
I should have read the reviews for this, but went In blind. Stupid mistake on my behalf because if I knew what I read would happen, no way would I have read it.
I should have read the reviews for this, but went In blind. Stupid mistake on my behalf because if I knew what I read would happen, no way would I have read it.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 14, 2016
Un dramón de los que a mí me gustan, con una historia de amor muy bonita. Aunque la trama es bastante previsible y se repite en algunos momentos, me ha gustado como para leerlo en un plis, así que le doy mis 4 *
Want to read
April 8, 2014ARC kindly provided by author in return or an honest review
July 7, 2018
This had such progress to be a great book and yet it was destroyed by some very key things and it just became unbearable to read at times.
1. I find it hard to believe Sebastian wouldn't be given emergency leave immediately.
2. I was really struggling with this because what mother goes through the trauma of having a premature baby through c-section and then thinks there baby's doctor is hot?
3. The relationship slightly inappropriate I'm sure there are rules about that somewhere.
4. "If he loves you, where is he?" I couldn't help but think that it was so fucking manipulative! It's not like Sebastian was out getting drunk with the boys. He was fighting for his country.
I really wanted to like this book but there were too many problems for me, it has such great potential, it also covered some great topics but those things weren't explored enough. This book would have been amazing without Ashton turning into a love interest, the author could have focused on so much more, instead, it was all about the romance.
I find it hard to believe that falling in love with someone else and sex is one of the first things on your mind when your baby is in the NICU.
1. I find it hard to believe Sebastian wouldn't be given emergency leave immediately.
2. I was really struggling with this because what mother goes through the trauma of having a premature baby through c-section and then thinks there baby's doctor is hot?
3. The relationship slightly inappropriate I'm sure there are rules about that somewhere.
4. "If he loves you, where is he?" I couldn't help but think that it was so fucking manipulative! It's not like Sebastian was out getting drunk with the boys. He was fighting for his country.
I really wanted to like this book but there were too many problems for me, it has such great potential, it also covered some great topics but those things weren't explored enough. This book would have been amazing without Ashton turning into a love interest, the author could have focused on so much more, instead, it was all about the romance.
I find it hard to believe that falling in love with someone else and sex is one of the first things on your mind when your baby is in the NICU.
August 6, 2016
WOW. This is a story that shows just how strong one person can be. I mean the main character, Ava, has been through hell and back. I won't get into details because I don't include spoilers in my reviews but I'll just say the things that she's had to deal with in her life would cause anyone to break - but somehow, she hangs in there.
Now, I will write a warning here. I know that some people have a hatred for books that involve cheating so I will say that this may not be one for you to read. I feel that you'd miss out on a good read but I'd be lying if I said that this book wouldn't bother you.
Ava gives birth to a baby girl 13 weeks before she was due. When she was born, she was only 2lbs. Now her baby is in an incubator in the neonatal intensive care unit holding on for her tiny dear life.
Meanwhile, Ava is alone. Her boyfriend is serving in Afghanistan and her best friend, Caleb, wasn't able to make it until after the surgery.
I can't imagine dealing with all that Ava deals with. Besides having her lil one in the NICU, Ava has a horribly painful past that haunts her to this day.
The only person who is able to get her to feel anything other than sadness and worry is Asher Bailey - her lil girls doctor.
There is something about him that she just can't ignore. She knows its wrong, she has a boyfriend. But the pull is strong and it's reciprocated.
This book was an emotional roller-coaster. There is no other term for it. It showed me that no matter what happens to a person, there is always someone out there who is the person to help you through it. It may not be who you thought it was going to be, but that person is there.
I give it 4 stars and am super happy to hear that there will be another book in the series!
Now, I will write a warning here. I know that some people have a hatred for books that involve cheating so I will say that this may not be one for you to read. I feel that you'd miss out on a good read but I'd be lying if I said that this book wouldn't bother you.
Ava gives birth to a baby girl 13 weeks before she was due. When she was born, she was only 2lbs. Now her baby is in an incubator in the neonatal intensive care unit holding on for her tiny dear life.
Meanwhile, Ava is alone. Her boyfriend is serving in Afghanistan and her best friend, Caleb, wasn't able to make it until after the surgery.
I can't imagine dealing with all that Ava deals with. Besides having her lil one in the NICU, Ava has a horribly painful past that haunts her to this day.
The only person who is able to get her to feel anything other than sadness and worry is Asher Bailey - her lil girls doctor.
There is something about him that she just can't ignore. She knows its wrong, she has a boyfriend. But the pull is strong and it's reciprocated.
This book was an emotional roller-coaster. There is no other term for it. It showed me that no matter what happens to a person, there is always someone out there who is the person to help you through it. It may not be who you thought it was going to be, but that person is there.
I give it 4 stars and am super happy to hear that there will be another book in the series!
February 7, 2014
This book was simply amazing. I can not put into words how I felt about this book. I was lucky enough to get an ARC copy and let me tell you, I devoured it. I LOVED Ava. She is such a strong amazing woman. She goes through so much and feels so hard. I just love her to pieces. I adored them all I think it is hard to pick which guy is more swoon worthy though there are 3 pretty fantastic guys. Sebastian is just... there are no words for him. He is the perfect man. Caleb is the kind of best friend every girl dreams of.. and every single girl crys over because he wants a man instead of you ;)... but Ashton.. he is to die for. I love my doctor. he is the protector. He is just amazing and perfect too. They are all so perfect that you kind of want to hate them because you love them so much... and.... I'm not giving anything away.. just know this book is amazing and I can not wait for more from this amazing author!!!!!! <3
March 15, 2018
I feel as though I am drowning in the deepest of waters, without a life jacket, with no way of survival. I abruptly pull my hand out of his and bury my face deep into my hands. I angrily bite against my hand as I mumble, “I don’t how much more I can cope with.”
I struggled a little with this one. While it is beautifully written, it was quite unrealistic to me.
Even though the author managed to make me shed a tear or two and hold my breath because of the awful things that happened to a heroine, I simply can not get over on what she'd done.
Not really on what she'd done, but when and how. She barely gave birth and... no, you read it for yourself. You might not have a problem with it ;)
I struggled a little with this one. While it is beautifully written, it was quite unrealistic to me.
Even though the author managed to make me shed a tear or two and hold my breath because of the awful things that happened to a heroine, I simply can not get over on what she'd done.
Not really on what she'd done, but when and how. She barely gave birth and... no, you read it for yourself. You might not have a problem with it ;)
April 19, 2014
http://ripeforreader.blogspot.com/201...
My rating: 4.5 of 5 ⭐️
Twenty-eight year old Ava Jacobson though she was heading for calm waters, happily pregnant with her first child, while her fiancee Sebastian was serving out his time in Afghanistan. But when her baby announces herself three months early and leaves Ava struggling alone, recovering from a c-section with a little daughter fighting for her life and her man thousands of miles away. If not for her best friend Caleb and little Lilly's physician Dr. Bailey, she would'nt have been able to hold it together.
Neonatal Care Physicial Ashton Bailey is immediately taken with Ava and her tiny daughter, but knowing she is spoken for, he tries to keep a respectful distance. It becomes difficult however, when she is in need of support and he is eager to provide it, even if it is just as a friend. But when the bottom seems to fall out for Ava and she needs strong protective arms, he can't resist his baser instincts and alows his desires to come through.
For weeks Ava was battling her attraction to Ashton, his beautiful eyes a constant source of strength and encouragement to her. But when an unexpected return to a place she had wanted to leave behind brought back the dark memories that haunted her, she finally opened herself up to him completely. The result not only a complicated romantic entanglement, but also a resurfacing of old demons from which she no longer was able to hide.
Just as Ava thinks she has finally lost everything that mattered, the one person who has held her head above the water has come through for her again....
****
Good GRIEF!! What an emotional roller-coaster!! Excellent!
From a highly dramatic and emotional, but rather paced start, I was not quite sure where the story would take me. Pleasantly surprised when I started sensing a dark undertone that promised perhaps a type of psychological thriller aspect to this romance, I was not disappointed. The build up was very gradual, very subdued with a lot of overlying romantic turmoil that clouded the darker edges. But once the proverbial cat was out of the bag, and the dark twist was out in the open, suspense was high and the certainty that no deed goes unpunished, had me sitting at the edge of my seat.
Ava, at times I felt she was a bit of an emotional wreck, especially at first. That is until I got to know her better. Understood her better. And realized she was so much stronger than I had given her credit for. Even still, I can't agree with all of her decisions, but I haven't been in her shoes so it isn't my place to judge. I can't deny the incredible suffering and struggle, however, nor the blessing in the form of Caleb and Ashton in her life.
And good grief, where can I find me an Ashton? I have to admit, early on in the book I was wondering if he had some nefarious intent, but the man was nothing but perfection. Ok, he was kind of hitting on a woman who was already engaged, but he tried very hard not to overstep boundaries and filled a void left by the man who should have been there, but wasn't. His intentions were good but when instincts take over, what are you going to do?
Some difficult moral questions are tackled in this story, ones that are rather painful and difficult since the outcome has such a devastating impact on some. What do you do when you are faced with a choice between the right thing to do, and the right thing for YOU.....when they are not one and the same?
I have to caution readers about some of the subject matter in this book dealing with sexual abuse and suicide. As mentioned before, there are some dark elements at play that are slowly revealed and come back at full force toward the end. Please be aware that these topics are a part of the plot and may be cause for upset.
✨The intense, conflicted beauty and strength of ultimate survival!✨
**Copy provided in return for an honest review.**
My rating: 4.5 of 5 ⭐️
Twenty-eight year old Ava Jacobson though she was heading for calm waters, happily pregnant with her first child, while her fiancee Sebastian was serving out his time in Afghanistan. But when her baby announces herself three months early and leaves Ava struggling alone, recovering from a c-section with a little daughter fighting for her life and her man thousands of miles away. If not for her best friend Caleb and little Lilly's physician Dr. Bailey, she would'nt have been able to hold it together.
Neonatal Care Physicial Ashton Bailey is immediately taken with Ava and her tiny daughter, but knowing she is spoken for, he tries to keep a respectful distance. It becomes difficult however, when she is in need of support and he is eager to provide it, even if it is just as a friend. But when the bottom seems to fall out for Ava and she needs strong protective arms, he can't resist his baser instincts and alows his desires to come through.
For weeks Ava was battling her attraction to Ashton, his beautiful eyes a constant source of strength and encouragement to her. But when an unexpected return to a place she had wanted to leave behind brought back the dark memories that haunted her, she finally opened herself up to him completely. The result not only a complicated romantic entanglement, but also a resurfacing of old demons from which she no longer was able to hide.
Just as Ava thinks she has finally lost everything that mattered, the one person who has held her head above the water has come through for her again....
****
Good GRIEF!! What an emotional roller-coaster!! Excellent!
From a highly dramatic and emotional, but rather paced start, I was not quite sure where the story would take me. Pleasantly surprised when I started sensing a dark undertone that promised perhaps a type of psychological thriller aspect to this romance, I was not disappointed. The build up was very gradual, very subdued with a lot of overlying romantic turmoil that clouded the darker edges. But once the proverbial cat was out of the bag, and the dark twist was out in the open, suspense was high and the certainty that no deed goes unpunished, had me sitting at the edge of my seat.
Ava, at times I felt she was a bit of an emotional wreck, especially at first. That is until I got to know her better. Understood her better. And realized she was so much stronger than I had given her credit for. Even still, I can't agree with all of her decisions, but I haven't been in her shoes so it isn't my place to judge. I can't deny the incredible suffering and struggle, however, nor the blessing in the form of Caleb and Ashton in her life.
And good grief, where can I find me an Ashton? I have to admit, early on in the book I was wondering if he had some nefarious intent, but the man was nothing but perfection. Ok, he was kind of hitting on a woman who was already engaged, but he tried very hard not to overstep boundaries and filled a void left by the man who should have been there, but wasn't. His intentions were good but when instincts take over, what are you going to do?
Some difficult moral questions are tackled in this story, ones that are rather painful and difficult since the outcome has such a devastating impact on some. What do you do when you are faced with a choice between the right thing to do, and the right thing for YOU.....when they are not one and the same?
I have to caution readers about some of the subject matter in this book dealing with sexual abuse and suicide. As mentioned before, there are some dark elements at play that are slowly revealed and come back at full force toward the end. Please be aware that these topics are a part of the plot and may be cause for upset.
✨The intense, conflicted beauty and strength of ultimate survival!✨
**Copy provided in return for an honest review.**
October 21, 2017
This is the first Elena Matthews book I've read and wow! I don't even know where to start. This was an emotional rollercoaster and one that had me hooked from the start.
I don't want to say to much without spoiling the book but I will say this is a fabulous must read. The characters are well developed and the story flows well. I felt every emotion reading this and my heart hurt. It was beautifully written and deserves the 5 star I have given it.
I don't want to say to much without spoiling the book but I will say this is a fabulous must read. The characters are well developed and the story flows well. I felt every emotion reading this and my heart hurt. It was beautifully written and deserves the 5 star I have given it.
April 6, 2014
This book was AMAZING!!! I was lucky enough to get to BETA read for the author.
*Small Spoiler alert*
This is the story of Ava and her gut wrenching journey of having her first born child. While Sebastian, her fiancé is away at war in Afghanistan she goes into labor, three months early. The obstacles that are faced when you have a premie are hard enough but having to deal with them alone are even worse. Cue Dr. Ashton Bailey ;)
Ashton is her daughters’ attending physician and there are sparks from their first meeting!! He is so dreamy. I know cheating is a touchy subject for some, and I do not condone it, but… I felt like it totally worked for this story. My heart broke for Sebastian and a few times I was pissed at Ava & Ashton, but in the end I’m glad it worked out for them.
Elena did a fantastic job with this book and I still can’ believe this is her debut novel!! Get ready for more because Sebastian’s book is coming next ;)
*Small Spoiler alert*
This is the story of Ava and her gut wrenching journey of having her first born child. While Sebastian, her fiancé is away at war in Afghanistan she goes into labor, three months early. The obstacles that are faced when you have a premie are hard enough but having to deal with them alone are even worse. Cue Dr. Ashton Bailey ;)
Ashton is her daughters’ attending physician and there are sparks from their first meeting!! He is so dreamy. I know cheating is a touchy subject for some, and I do not condone it, but… I felt like it totally worked for this story. My heart broke for Sebastian and a few times I was pissed at Ava & Ashton, but in the end I’m glad it worked out for them.
Elena did a fantastic job with this book and I still can’ believe this is her debut novel!! Get ready for more because Sebastian’s book is coming next ;)
September 8, 2014
This book was bloody amazing!
Its rare that a book draws me in from the beginning and captures my attention until the end. Blimey, it was so well written.
This woman had been through so much, I was mellowiing through the book, easily turning the pages then...........I was biting my nails, my heart rate getting faster. I kid you not! I can't wait for the next book to come out. It ends not as a cliffhanger so you are Ok there folks, but its really intense.
I wasn't expecting the turn of events, not one little bit.
I'm going to be keeping my eye on this author as this is the first book I have read by her and I am so enthusiastic about this book, you have got to read it for yourself.
Once in a while you get one of those books that you just can't leave alone, well, this was one of them.
I received this book as a complimentary edition. Read and reviewed honestly
Its rare that a book draws me in from the beginning and captures my attention until the end. Blimey, it was so well written.
This woman had been through so much, I was mellowiing through the book, easily turning the pages then...........I was biting my nails, my heart rate getting faster. I kid you not! I can't wait for the next book to come out. It ends not as a cliffhanger so you are Ok there folks, but its really intense.
I wasn't expecting the turn of events, not one little bit.
I'm going to be keeping my eye on this author as this is the first book I have read by her and I am so enthusiastic about this book, you have got to read it for yourself.
Once in a while you get one of those books that you just can't leave alone, well, this was one of them.
I received this book as a complimentary edition. Read and reviewed honestly
January 19, 2014
*Beta Review*
WOW!!! What an emotional roller-coaster! For me, books that involve cheating are a hit or miss experience. Look After You was definitely a hit!
There are many aspects of this book that are completely unique, bringing a refreshing take to what can sometimes be a very 'samey' genre!
Look After You is full of characters you just can't help but fall in love with! Even Ava, the cheating heroine won me over in no time at all!
Packed with hotness, suspense, ups and downs, there was never a dull moment!
WOW!!! What an emotional roller-coaster! For me, books that involve cheating are a hit or miss experience. Look After You was definitely a hit!
There are many aspects of this book that are completely unique, bringing a refreshing take to what can sometimes be a very 'samey' genre!
Look After You is full of characters you just can't help but fall in love with! Even Ava, the cheating heroine won me over in no time at all!
Packed with hotness, suspense, ups and downs, there was never a dull moment!
June 7, 2014
This book tugs at the heartstrings from the beginning, you feel all of Ava's emotions. A boyfriend overseas in the army, a premature baby and a mind full of painful memories. Sebastian doesn't want to be away from his family and is counting down the days until he comes home. Ashton is the doctor looking after Ava's baby and you just feel the connection they have, he is all kinds of sweet and vulnerable. Ava's past comes back and she has to make a difficult choice thy will impact on all their lives.
May 31, 2014
wow i loved this book so well writen. loved dr bailey swoon. this story was so exciting from beggining to end i enjoyed this book so much. 5+☆★☆★☆★☆★☆★☆★☆. well done elena matthews. xxx
July 6, 2018
A beautiful, beautiful story.
I went into this blind, didn't even really know what to expect as I didn't read previous reviews.
This book is not a light read, the story sucks you in and spits you out a crying mess. Well, it did that for me, anyway.
It was a very heavy plotline with lots going on, but it worked.
I did ugly cry about 4 times. Definitely a must read.
I normally steer away from books with cheating, cause I'm a black and white kinda gal, but this was really well written. I still don't condone it, but it was a great book.
And the cover just fits so beautifully.
I went into this blind, didn't even really know what to expect as I didn't read previous reviews.
This book is not a light read, the story sucks you in and spits you out a crying mess. Well, it did that for me, anyway.
It was a very heavy plotline with lots going on, but it worked.
I did ugly cry about 4 times. Definitely a must read.
I normally steer away from books with cheating, cause I'm a black and white kinda gal, but this was really well written. I still don't condone it, but it was a great book.
And the cover just fits so beautifully.
August 11, 2018
I have mixed feelings about this book. I am not a fan of characters who cheat . I tried to be emphatic with the whole cheating aspect but it just didn’t sit well with me and nothing could justify it . Specially since all three characters were like-able . I liked both Ashton and Sebastian characters and was torn between who Ava should choose.
July 2, 2018
Wow!!!! Great story!!!
This book sucked me in from the first page and I couldn't put it down. The characters were amazing and I loved the chemistry between Ava and Ashton!!!! Sexy alpha male doctor!!!! Swoon worthy!!! Also loved Caleb and Sebastuan as well. Looking forward to reading Sebastians story next.
This book sucked me in from the first page and I couldn't put it down. The characters were amazing and I loved the chemistry between Ava and Ashton!!!! Sexy alpha male doctor!!!! Swoon worthy!!! Also loved Caleb and Sebastuan as well. Looking forward to reading Sebastians story next.
February 8, 2018
Look After You is a dramatic story with impact, covering a myriad of trigger themes for many readers, but I'm a drama whore, so guess what...
I loved it!
I devoured it - and enjoyed every dark, naughty, twisted moment!
Ashton Bailey... I'm all yours!
I loved it!
I devoured it - and enjoyed every dark, naughty, twisted moment!
Ashton Bailey... I'm all yours!
February 15, 2021
This book packed in more twists and turns than you usually expect in the same book; prematurely born baby whilst dad is away in Afghanistan, male gay best friend supporting the new mum, a recently qualified male doctor fighting for the premie's life, a very dark past for the mum, a shocking funeral, a bloody knuckles fight, a controlling brother, a romantic proposal, a brutal kidnapping, a forceful police raid and moving in together.
Highlighted quote: "A world without you is a world not worth living in"
Heavy content: After reading the book, I noticed that Amazon's warning included "for ages 18+ due to heavy subject matters, explicit language and sexual situations". Still, the reading level in the listing is set to 17-18 years. Please also note that the "sexual situations" include rape between siblings.
Further books by the author: This is the first book in a series of three. Book two tells what happens to Sebastian whereas book three continues the story of Ava.
Highlighted quote: "A world without you is a world not worth living in"
Heavy content: After reading the book, I noticed that Amazon's warning included "for ages 18+ due to heavy subject matters, explicit language and sexual situations". Still, the reading level in the listing is set to 17-18 years. Please also note that the "sexual situations" include rape between siblings.
Further books by the author: This is the first book in a series of three. Book two tells what happens to Sebastian whereas book three continues the story of Ava.
March 16, 2015
It has taken me a long time to read this book; I’ve had it for an age but had this inherent fear about reading it. Why? Well, I read the synopsis and some reviews and I knew that Elena quite possibly had the ability to break me, I wasn’t looking forward to the emotional upheaval that I knew would come with this book so kept knocking it off the top of my TBR. I signed up for the release of her next book Look After Me with the view to pushing me to read this one. It’s always a sure fire way to get me to read something as I like reading to deadlines. If I have to read something then I will. And that’s where I am now, with Elena’s new release imminent it was time! I don’t cope well with emotional books and can only read them now and again despite relishing in a well written one.
Can I just state for the record that you Elena Matthews are naughty! You did in fact break me and I was right to fear this story for so many reasons. This book….I don’t even know where to start gathering my thoughts to put into a review but I’ll try. This absolutely stole my heart. I was in Elena’s world right from those first two words “two pounds” and it felt like she was in mine. I’m a preemie Mum, though not as early, I’m still one. I found myself a little distraught reading about Lily-Mai due to my own experiences and memories and felt I needed grounding before going any further. I always listen to Wires from Athlete when I think of my little boy and for some reason it always puts my feet back on the ground. So that’s what I did and then came back and devoured Ava’s story.
It isn’t a pleasant story; Ava’s history is often times brutal. This book is all Ava and to be honest I consider most other characters very much secondary to hers. I know Caleb and Ashton play huge roles but this was Ava’s story from beginning to end. It wasn’t difficult to get on board with her as your heart is instantly opened from the first chapter and despite some of her decisions you stay with Ava right through to the end. The emotions that played out through these pages, characters and plots leave a reader feeling sore. My heart ached at times, even through the good moments there was an undercurrent of sadness that was very hard to shake and I didn’t know who I felt sorry for the most. But….but, the story is so good it nourishes your soul at the same time. You can deal with the sadness and grief that pours through the story. You find yourself holding onto that belief that Ava will get her HEA. It has dark themes riddled throughout that absolutely suck you in and spit you out! How can I not love it? You get a good comprehensive history that you need in order to understand future events in the book.
You get a glimpse of Ashton’s POV and I felt it came at the perfect time, it was sorely needed. I really liked that Elena did it this way. I also liked what Elena did with Sebastian’s character. It would have been so easy as an author to write the obvious and whilst waiting for it I was extremely glad that the author did not take the easy way out. I think I would have put the book down in all honesty. I know a lot of readers loathe the cheating angle, I don’t. It really doesn’t bother me and it felt perfect for this story.
I enjoyed the style of writing although it wasn’t magnificent it really did flow and capture me as a reader. It was impeccable and the story was so heart breakingly captivating that it was really hard to put down. So I would definitely recommend this to anyone. Yes, it has very difficult content to contend with but this just needs to be read. I really am looking forward to Look After Me although I know again that it will be a tough read. After this how can it not be? Congratulations on a well written book. 5 stars all the way!!
Can I just state for the record that you Elena Matthews are naughty! You did in fact break me and I was right to fear this story for so many reasons. This book….I don’t even know where to start gathering my thoughts to put into a review but I’ll try. This absolutely stole my heart. I was in Elena’s world right from those first two words “two pounds” and it felt like she was in mine. I’m a preemie Mum, though not as early, I’m still one. I found myself a little distraught reading about Lily-Mai due to my own experiences and memories and felt I needed grounding before going any further. I always listen to Wires from Athlete when I think of my little boy and for some reason it always puts my feet back on the ground. So that’s what I did and then came back and devoured Ava’s story.
It isn’t a pleasant story; Ava’s history is often times brutal. This book is all Ava and to be honest I consider most other characters very much secondary to hers. I know Caleb and Ashton play huge roles but this was Ava’s story from beginning to end. It wasn’t difficult to get on board with her as your heart is instantly opened from the first chapter and despite some of her decisions you stay with Ava right through to the end. The emotions that played out through these pages, characters and plots leave a reader feeling sore. My heart ached at times, even through the good moments there was an undercurrent of sadness that was very hard to shake and I didn’t know who I felt sorry for the most. But….but, the story is so good it nourishes your soul at the same time. You can deal with the sadness and grief that pours through the story. You find yourself holding onto that belief that Ava will get her HEA. It has dark themes riddled throughout that absolutely suck you in and spit you out! How can I not love it? You get a good comprehensive history that you need in order to understand future events in the book.
You get a glimpse of Ashton’s POV and I felt it came at the perfect time, it was sorely needed. I really liked that Elena did it this way. I also liked what Elena did with Sebastian’s character. It would have been so easy as an author to write the obvious and whilst waiting for it I was extremely glad that the author did not take the easy way out. I think I would have put the book down in all honesty. I know a lot of readers loathe the cheating angle, I don’t. It really doesn’t bother me and it felt perfect for this story.
I enjoyed the style of writing although it wasn’t magnificent it really did flow and capture me as a reader. It was impeccable and the story was so heart breakingly captivating that it was really hard to put down. So I would definitely recommend this to anyone. Yes, it has very difficult content to contend with but this just needs to be read. I really am looking forward to Look After Me although I know again that it will be a tough read. After this how can it not be? Congratulations on a well written book. 5 stars all the way!!
April 3, 2014
JESUS! The Drama in the book literally kicks off in book one. From page one I was hooked. So hooked having to put my kindle down felt like it was causing me pain. THANKS Elena! LOL. I felt like I was on an emotional Roller coaster. There was so many up's and downs. AND just the right amount of Hotness ;)
As you know from the Synopsis poor Elena's world is turned upside down when she goes into labour a few months early. That taught of Loosing her little girl in unbearable. On top of that she has to go threw it alone! No she is not single, BUT the men in her life aren't currently around. And the sad thing is for Ava this is just ONE drastic thing in her life. The life she left behind at 18 is still in the back of her mind waiting to pop it's ugly head out. This girl really needs to catch a break :(
Soooooo the men if her life......
Her partner Sebastian is away in Afghanistan. He was meant to get back when the baby was around 2 months old. Ava was ready for that. BUT this she was not ready for. And Sebastian is just *Sigh* perfect. Having been with each other four years they truly love each other. And it tears him apart knowing he isn't there for her when she's going threw all of this.
BUT, she may of had to go threw the birth alone but she's not fully alone. She has got her bestest friend in the world Caleb by her side. He just happened to be miles from the ground flying(No he's not superman) somewhere when Ava's baby wanted to make an early arrival. He is everything you would want in a best friend. He is so loving and caring AND calls her out when she's wrong on things. And he knows Ava better then anyone. Even better then Sebastian.
But, that's not the only men in Ava's life...... Well not after the baby arrives......
Enter Doctor Ashton Bailey.....
God even his name is sexy!
Ashton is the baby's Doctor. And right from the first meeting there's fire works. Ava can't explain it though. She's with Sebastian. She LOVES Sebastian. So why does she keep feeling Drawn to this Doctor. Ava and Ashton do get......closer. Friendly, yes they become 'Friends' while all this is going on. He makes her laugh and right now that is what she needs to get her threw this time. She thinks that everything will be okay, as long as they stay friends nothing will happen. Just because she's REALLY likes him doesn't mean he like's her. AND let's not forget she's with someone. Yes SEBASTIAN! But sometimes your head and your heart ignore each other just to piss you off.....
Two men wanting your heart..... But only one can win...... One has to have there heart broke......
This book was AMAZING. As I was reading it I kept saying 'This is the author's first Novel.....REALLY?' I couldn't believe it. So if this book is so good and its the first I can only imagine how good the next will be! I am already DYING for book two. As you will be when you've read this book, so don't say you weren't warned.
As you know from the Synopsis poor Elena's world is turned upside down when she goes into labour a few months early. That taught of Loosing her little girl in unbearable. On top of that she has to go threw it alone! No she is not single, BUT the men in her life aren't currently around. And the sad thing is for Ava this is just ONE drastic thing in her life. The life she left behind at 18 is still in the back of her mind waiting to pop it's ugly head out. This girl really needs to catch a break :(
Soooooo the men if her life......
Her partner Sebastian is away in Afghanistan. He was meant to get back when the baby was around 2 months old. Ava was ready for that. BUT this she was not ready for. And Sebastian is just *Sigh* perfect. Having been with each other four years they truly love each other. And it tears him apart knowing he isn't there for her when she's going threw all of this.
BUT, she may of had to go threw the birth alone but she's not fully alone. She has got her bestest friend in the world Caleb by her side. He just happened to be miles from the ground flying(No he's not superman) somewhere when Ava's baby wanted to make an early arrival. He is everything you would want in a best friend. He is so loving and caring AND calls her out when she's wrong on things. And he knows Ava better then anyone. Even better then Sebastian.
But, that's not the only men in Ava's life...... Well not after the baby arrives......
Enter Doctor Ashton Bailey.....
God even his name is sexy!
Ashton is the baby's Doctor. And right from the first meeting there's fire works. Ava can't explain it though. She's with Sebastian. She LOVES Sebastian. So why does she keep feeling Drawn to this Doctor. Ava and Ashton do get......closer. Friendly, yes they become 'Friends' while all this is going on. He makes her laugh and right now that is what she needs to get her threw this time. She thinks that everything will be okay, as long as they stay friends nothing will happen. Just because she's REALLY likes him doesn't mean he like's her. AND let's not forget she's with someone. Yes SEBASTIAN! But sometimes your head and your heart ignore each other just to piss you off.....
Two men wanting your heart..... But only one can win...... One has to have there heart broke......
This book was AMAZING. As I was reading it I kept saying 'This is the author's first Novel.....REALLY?' I couldn't believe it. So if this book is so good and its the first I can only imagine how good the next will be! I am already DYING for book two. As you will be when you've read this book, so don't say you weren't warned.
August 13, 2014
Oh my god ,,, this is one heck of a book ,,, the read it's intense literally from the get go right through to the end
When you start out reading this book you won't expect what you get from it ,,, well I didn't anyways ,,, I read the synopsis and was sure this would be something that I would enjoy and boy o boy was I right ,,, this story is amazing it's gripping ,,, it's got so much in it ,,, you'll be left with your emotions all over the place ,,, I don't want to give too much away in this review ,,, there is so much that I'd love to say ,,, but it's definitely one of those books you really do need to read ,,,
This story is Ava's story ,,, we begin this book with her having gone in to premature labour and her baby girl is born ,,, she is extremely early so her survival isn't a guarantee ,,, but unfortunately Ava has more going against her in her life too ,,, with no family and a partner that is on tour in Afghanistan there is only one other person she has in her life and that is her friend ,,, and he isn't by her side right now either ,,, Ava is alone ,,, she is dealing with so much by herself ,,, her friend Caleb is with her whenever he can be but he has to work ,,, Sebastian only gets a short term of leave ,,, and then once again she is alone ,,, amidst all this loneliness and darkness that surrounds her she finds some light ,,, this may not be the most appropriate person but she doesn't choose it ,,, it ,,, or he ,,, finds her ,,,, he being Doctor Ashton Bailey
At Ava's lowest times in her life she had no one to turn to in the past but now whenever something happens and she needs support Ashton always seems to be I tune with her and provide what she needs ,,, BUT Ava is with Sebastian ,,, Ava and Ashton are merely friends ,,,, or are they? ,,, how much pain and heartache can one person experience ,,,, hide ,,, suffer? ,,,, when is it too much? ,,, when will they explode with it all? Is it possible that so done can save them from themselves?
Eventually decisions and choices have to be made? And we have to live with choices from our pasts ,,, remembering we wouldn't be where we are now if it wasn't for the choices we'd made before ,,, other people's actions have an impact on our decisions and our life's destination HOWEVER we are unable to control the behaviour of others ,,,, we can control our own actions ,,, essentially remembering if something is meant to be then it will!!!
You will be warring with yourselves over the conflict this book will cause within your head ,,, you'll read a number of incidences and literally be stumped and not know which way it will go ,,, you'll be on that roller coaster ride of emotions with all of the ups and downs from this book ,,, your heart will crumple and break more than once throughout this read ,,, there is a dark side to this book ,,, but after reading it you'll understand where these characters have come from and where it is they are headed :)
HIGHLY recommend
When you start out reading this book you won't expect what you get from it ,,, well I didn't anyways ,,, I read the synopsis and was sure this would be something that I would enjoy and boy o boy was I right ,,, this story is amazing it's gripping ,,, it's got so much in it ,,, you'll be left with your emotions all over the place ,,, I don't want to give too much away in this review ,,, there is so much that I'd love to say ,,, but it's definitely one of those books you really do need to read ,,,
This story is Ava's story ,,, we begin this book with her having gone in to premature labour and her baby girl is born ,,, she is extremely early so her survival isn't a guarantee ,,, but unfortunately Ava has more going against her in her life too ,,, with no family and a partner that is on tour in Afghanistan there is only one other person she has in her life and that is her friend ,,, and he isn't by her side right now either ,,, Ava is alone ,,, she is dealing with so much by herself ,,, her friend Caleb is with her whenever he can be but he has to work ,,, Sebastian only gets a short term of leave ,,, and then once again she is alone ,,, amidst all this loneliness and darkness that surrounds her she finds some light ,,, this may not be the most appropriate person but she doesn't choose it ,,, it ,,, or he ,,, finds her ,,,, he being Doctor Ashton Bailey
At Ava's lowest times in her life she had no one to turn to in the past but now whenever something happens and she needs support Ashton always seems to be I tune with her and provide what she needs ,,, BUT Ava is with Sebastian ,,, Ava and Ashton are merely friends ,,,, or are they? ,,, how much pain and heartache can one person experience ,,,, hide ,,, suffer? ,,,, when is it too much? ,,, when will they explode with it all? Is it possible that so done can save them from themselves?
Eventually decisions and choices have to be made? And we have to live with choices from our pasts ,,, remembering we wouldn't be where we are now if it wasn't for the choices we'd made before ,,, other people's actions have an impact on our decisions and our life's destination HOWEVER we are unable to control the behaviour of others ,,,, we can control our own actions ,,, essentially remembering if something is meant to be then it will!!!
You will be warring with yourselves over the conflict this book will cause within your head ,,, you'll read a number of incidences and literally be stumped and not know which way it will go ,,, you'll be on that roller coaster ride of emotions with all of the ups and downs from this book ,,, your heart will crumple and break more than once throughout this read ,,, there is a dark side to this book ,,, but after reading it you'll understand where these characters have come from and where it is they are headed :)
HIGHLY recommend
March 17, 2015
This was my first book from Elena Matthews. I really liked it!
Blurb:
The birth of your firstborn child is supposed to be the best day of your life, a joyous occasion. Well that’s what twenty-eight year old Ava Jacobson thought. That is until her life takes a drastic turn for the worse and her daughter is born three months earlier than planned, weighing only two pounds, two ounces.
A distraught Ava is thrown into the deep end of motherhood and instead of being able to hold her baby like other moms, she has to sit back and watch her daughter fight for her life in the hospital’s neonatal intensive care unit, while her fiancé, Sebastian Gilbert is in the midst of a messy war in Afghanistan. Ava is left to pick up the pieces with the help of her only friend, Caleb Summers.
When her vulnerable state hits an all time low, she finds solace in an unexpected pair of intense green eyes. Eyes that belong to her daughter's doctor, Ashton Bailey, and she falls, like she has never fallen before. However, for the sake of Sebastian she desperately tries to fight against her newfound feelings for Ashton, but eventually the pull between the two is so strong that it is impossible for her to stay away.
Then when Ava is convinced things can't possibly get any worse, a cloud of blackness closes in on her as the secret demons of her past come back to haunt her, with news that will irreversibly shake her entire world forever.
As Ava’s roller coaster ride she calls life begins to circle the drain, she quickly learns that even through the darkness of evil, there is always that one person who will look after you and have the ability to pull you away from the brink of no return, when nobody else can.
**********
I felt so bad for Ava.. for everything that shes been through. I wanted to stop reading when the parts from her past returned. It was just awful! Having to go through something like that is horrible!
While Sebastian is away in Afghanistan fighting for our country. Ava has her best friend Caleb to help her through the tough times until she completely falls head over heels for her little girl Lily-Mai's doctor. Right off the bat you can feel the palpable chemistry between Ava & Dr. Ashton Bailey.
While I understand she was alone with her baby in NICU.. I had a feeling in the pit of my stomach the whole time they were messing around because she was still with Sebastian. I've read a lot of books, and suprisingly I haven't read any where theres cheating of this ...magnitude. Personally, I think its wrong. I'm pretty sure my heart broke when Sebastian found out.
Individually I loved all the characters. All three guys were totally swoonworthy I think. But when you put them all together I felt like I was picking sides.
I have to say that while I'm against cheating but I really enjoyed the book.
Look After You is a very well written book and I can't wait to read Look After Me!
Blurb:
The birth of your firstborn child is supposed to be the best day of your life, a joyous occasion. Well that’s what twenty-eight year old Ava Jacobson thought. That is until her life takes a drastic turn for the worse and her daughter is born three months earlier than planned, weighing only two pounds, two ounces.
A distraught Ava is thrown into the deep end of motherhood and instead of being able to hold her baby like other moms, she has to sit back and watch her daughter fight for her life in the hospital’s neonatal intensive care unit, while her fiancé, Sebastian Gilbert is in the midst of a messy war in Afghanistan. Ava is left to pick up the pieces with the help of her only friend, Caleb Summers.
When her vulnerable state hits an all time low, she finds solace in an unexpected pair of intense green eyes. Eyes that belong to her daughter's doctor, Ashton Bailey, and she falls, like she has never fallen before. However, for the sake of Sebastian she desperately tries to fight against her newfound feelings for Ashton, but eventually the pull between the two is so strong that it is impossible for her to stay away.
Then when Ava is convinced things can't possibly get any worse, a cloud of blackness closes in on her as the secret demons of her past come back to haunt her, with news that will irreversibly shake her entire world forever.
As Ava’s roller coaster ride she calls life begins to circle the drain, she quickly learns that even through the darkness of evil, there is always that one person who will look after you and have the ability to pull you away from the brink of no return, when nobody else can.
**********
I felt so bad for Ava.. for everything that shes been through. I wanted to stop reading when the parts from her past returned. It was just awful! Having to go through something like that is horrible!
While Sebastian is away in Afghanistan fighting for our country. Ava has her best friend Caleb to help her through the tough times until she completely falls head over heels for her little girl Lily-Mai's doctor. Right off the bat you can feel the palpable chemistry between Ava & Dr. Ashton Bailey.
While I understand she was alone with her baby in NICU.. I had a feeling in the pit of my stomach the whole time they were messing around because she was still with Sebastian. I've read a lot of books, and suprisingly I haven't read any where theres cheating of this ...magnitude. Personally, I think its wrong. I'm pretty sure my heart broke when Sebastian found out.
Individually I loved all the characters. All three guys were totally swoonworthy I think. But when you put them all together I felt like I was picking sides.
I have to say that while I'm against cheating but I really enjoyed the book.
Look After You is a very well written book and I can't wait to read Look After Me!
August 13, 2015
** Provided on behalf of the author for an honest review **
** Small Spoiler Alert **
It wasn’t supposed to happen now.
It was too soon.
It simply wasn’t time.
But I had no way of stopping it.
Scared.
Alone.
Frightened.
I don’t know how I am going to do this.
How will I cope?
How will I get through this with nobody that I rely on here to help get me through this?
This is what Ava is faced with having to deliver her beautiful first born child 13 weeks too soon.
What is supposed to be an amazing experience for Ava has turned into her worst nightmare. Her boyfriend Sebastian away on a tour of duty in Afghanistan, her best friend Caleb away, Ava is faced to do this alone. Watching her beautiful little girl fighting for life, fighting to take a breath. Hooked up to machines, not being able to hold her precious bundle of joy, Ava is struggling to cope, to hold on to faith.
Her best friend Caleb returns to be by her side, and her boyfriend Sebastian requests for leave to return to her.
But while waiting for Sebastian’s return, Ava never in a million years believed that she would find solace and comfort in another man.
He’s beautiful.
He’s smart.
He’s confident.
He’s great at what he does.
He is every woman’s knight in shining armour.
He’s Ava’s temptation.
He’s her weakness.
He’s Ava’s daughters doctor.
His name.
Ashton.
Ashton, taking care of Ava’s daughter knew from the minute he laid eyes on Ava that he had to have her. He would make sure that he went out of his way just to spend time with Ava. To be close to her. To be a shoulder for her to lean on. But he knew he could never have her. Ava was simply out of bounds, as she was with another man. He had to resist the need to want her, to be with her. He didn’t want to be the one to ruin a family unit. He couldn’t.
Or could he?
And so begins their story.
A story about desire.
A story about need.
A story about comfort.
A story about trust.
A story about secrets unveiled.
A story about strength and courage.
A story about absolute heartbreak.
A story about love.
We were given the opportunity to read and review this amazing novel. We were captivated from the very beginning. We laughed, we cried, we held our breath.
We felt the pain, hurt and fear that Ava struggled with. We felt the sheer heartache and heartbreak that Sebastian returned too. We felt the desire and need that Ashton could no longer deny. And Caleb….We watched a best-friend witness lives turned completely upside down by decisions made.
And we also felt a little girls struggle to live.
A novel so full of emotion that you can’t help but feel throughout reading it.
Elena Matthews for us wrote with such depth and detail that we just couldn’t put it down.
An absolute beautiful, heartbreaking, heart-warming read that definitely shouldn’t be missed.
We cannot wait for the next instalment.
For us a definite 5 star read.
** Small Spoiler Alert **
It wasn’t supposed to happen now.
It was too soon.
It simply wasn’t time.
But I had no way of stopping it.
Scared.
Alone.
Frightened.
I don’t know how I am going to do this.
How will I cope?
How will I get through this with nobody that I rely on here to help get me through this?
This is what Ava is faced with having to deliver her beautiful first born child 13 weeks too soon.
What is supposed to be an amazing experience for Ava has turned into her worst nightmare. Her boyfriend Sebastian away on a tour of duty in Afghanistan, her best friend Caleb away, Ava is faced to do this alone. Watching her beautiful little girl fighting for life, fighting to take a breath. Hooked up to machines, not being able to hold her precious bundle of joy, Ava is struggling to cope, to hold on to faith.
Her best friend Caleb returns to be by her side, and her boyfriend Sebastian requests for leave to return to her.
But while waiting for Sebastian’s return, Ava never in a million years believed that she would find solace and comfort in another man.
He’s beautiful.
He’s smart.
He’s confident.
He’s great at what he does.
He is every woman’s knight in shining armour.
He’s Ava’s temptation.
He’s her weakness.
He’s Ava’s daughters doctor.
His name.
Ashton.
Ashton, taking care of Ava’s daughter knew from the minute he laid eyes on Ava that he had to have her. He would make sure that he went out of his way just to spend time with Ava. To be close to her. To be a shoulder for her to lean on. But he knew he could never have her. Ava was simply out of bounds, as she was with another man. He had to resist the need to want her, to be with her. He didn’t want to be the one to ruin a family unit. He couldn’t.
Or could he?
And so begins their story.
A story about desire.
A story about need.
A story about comfort.
A story about trust.
A story about secrets unveiled.
A story about strength and courage.
A story about absolute heartbreak.
A story about love.
We were given the opportunity to read and review this amazing novel. We were captivated from the very beginning. We laughed, we cried, we held our breath.
We felt the pain, hurt and fear that Ava struggled with. We felt the sheer heartache and heartbreak that Sebastian returned too. We felt the desire and need that Ashton could no longer deny. And Caleb….We watched a best-friend witness lives turned completely upside down by decisions made.
And we also felt a little girls struggle to live.
A novel so full of emotion that you can’t help but feel throughout reading it.
Elena Matthews for us wrote with such depth and detail that we just couldn’t put it down.
An absolute beautiful, heartbreaking, heart-warming read that definitely shouldn’t be missed.
We cannot wait for the next instalment.
For us a definite 5 star read.
April 23, 2014
There are not many books out there that I can say that I LOVE. In order to get a 5 star review from me it has to be something new. Not a cookie cutter book that is the same story rewritten a different way. I have to be engaged in the book, and not be able to put it down. It has to draw on my emotions (which can be hard to do since I have read about everything out there). I can honestly say that Look After you did that, and more for me.
We meet Ava Jacobson. She has just given birth to her first baby, several weeks early, all alone as her boyfriend, Sebastian, is off fighting the war. Her baby is born with several problems and needs to be in the NICU for the long haul. In come Dr McHottie, Ashton Baily. He is there from day one taking care of her precious baby girl. Along the way, he is also taking care of Ava. This is a girl that has more drama then a soap opera, but you can't help but cheer her on along the way. He is there when she has no one else and needs someone's shoulder to cry on. Along the way, he is someone that Ava can count on and feeling that she fights come to light. Then there is Sebastian. What is she going to do about him? He is the father of her baby off fighting a war with the enemy and himself.
I love the relationship that Ava and Ashton have. It is a true testiment that love comes in a ways that we don't expect. Not that this book is all about their relationship. When you get to know Ava, you get to know all about her life before she moved to Seattle. She is a chick with a past that makes you wonder how she is as strong as she is. In a way, you think that she might be weak, but she is able to make a new person from the troubled person she was and you see how strong she is. I will admit that I did feel bad for Sebastian. I mean he is in the military, it is not like he didn't want to be there,but in the long run, I have have a feeling that the next books is going to find him with his own true love.
We meet Ava Jacobson. She has just given birth to her first baby, several weeks early, all alone as her boyfriend, Sebastian, is off fighting the war. Her baby is born with several problems and needs to be in the NICU for the long haul. In come Dr McHottie, Ashton Baily. He is there from day one taking care of her precious baby girl. Along the way, he is also taking care of Ava. This is a girl that has more drama then a soap opera, but you can't help but cheer her on along the way. He is there when she has no one else and needs someone's shoulder to cry on. Along the way, he is someone that Ava can count on and feeling that she fights come to light. Then there is Sebastian. What is she going to do about him? He is the father of her baby off fighting a war with the enemy and himself.
I love the relationship that Ava and Ashton have. It is a true testiment that love comes in a ways that we don't expect. Not that this book is all about their relationship. When you get to know Ava, you get to know all about her life before she moved to Seattle. She is a chick with a past that makes you wonder how she is as strong as she is. In a way, you think that she might be weak, but she is able to make a new person from the troubled person she was and you see how strong she is. I will admit that I did feel bad for Sebastian. I mean he is in the military, it is not like he didn't want to be there,but in the long run, I have have a feeling that the next books is going to find him with his own true love.
April 5, 2014
Look after you 5* Review. Author Elena Matthews.
I was provided an arc for an honest review.
This book is heart wrenching to say the least. It drags you into the story.
You know when your reading an amazing book when your caught in the story and can't drag yourself a away, well this is that.
On a cautious note. For any mummy's out their that has had a prem baby, which I have. I know what you will be going through reading this book. Memories will resurface, some good, some bad. But through all of that let me tell you this book is worth the read.
Oh heck where to start?
Ava has had a lifetime of devastation. But her devastation has only just begun. The only question is how much more can she handle before she breaks.
Her baby is born prematurely and is fighting for her life but, as time goes on we find Ava is in the same position.
Tragedy after tragedy strikes and there is only one person who can save her, but in saving her is he destroying all she has known.
My heart broke for Sebastian. I have never felt so sorry for a male character before. He had dreaded being away from his family. Heck he could only do so much from afar.
Ashton's vulnerability was adorable. He was such a selfless character I couldn't help but fall in love with him. He knew what he was doing was wrong. He fought his instincts for as long as he could, but to sit back and witness everything he had ever wanted before his very eyes. He couldn't take it much longer so he chose to fight for them, and in fighting for them he selflessly choose to bring back the light into her eyes.
But with demons lurking around the corner.
The only question is
Can he save her?
Written on behalf of Sarah's Book Reviews.
I was provided an arc for an honest review.
This book is heart wrenching to say the least. It drags you into the story.
You know when your reading an amazing book when your caught in the story and can't drag yourself a away, well this is that.
On a cautious note. For any mummy's out their that has had a prem baby, which I have. I know what you will be going through reading this book. Memories will resurface, some good, some bad. But through all of that let me tell you this book is worth the read.
Oh heck where to start?
Ava has had a lifetime of devastation. But her devastation has only just begun. The only question is how much more can she handle before she breaks.
Her baby is born prematurely and is fighting for her life but, as time goes on we find Ava is in the same position.
Tragedy after tragedy strikes and there is only one person who can save her, but in saving her is he destroying all she has known.
My heart broke for Sebastian. I have never felt so sorry for a male character before. He had dreaded being away from his family. Heck he could only do so much from afar.
Ashton's vulnerability was adorable. He was such a selfless character I couldn't help but fall in love with him. He knew what he was doing was wrong. He fought his instincts for as long as he could, but to sit back and witness everything he had ever wanted before his very eyes. He couldn't take it much longer so he chose to fight for them, and in fighting for them he selflessly choose to bring back the light into her eyes.
But with demons lurking around the corner.
The only question is
Can he save her?
Written on behalf of Sarah's Book Reviews.
September 25, 2015
This book was such an emotional read for me. I can’t imagine living thru the hell that Ava went thru as a child only to finally find happiness and then have it almost ripped away. Ava, is a remarkable woman for sure. She got away from a monster and found what she thought was her true love. Reading the first few chapter seriously broke my heart. I can’t imagine having to have a baby that early and deal with so many issues that Ava did. Her boyfriend is overseas fighting the war while she is dealing with a baby in the NICU, who was delivered way to early. The only saving grace is her best friend and the Hot Doctor taking care of her baby. He brings up feelings that Ava thought she would feel with Sebastian but she soon realizes she doesn’t . Ava, deals with everything just like a mom would. Her whole life is that baby and nothing else. Ashton and Caleb convince her to finally live her life while caring for the baby. After a trip back home with Ashton, things change and they can’t be erased. Emotions are high and lines are crossed. Also there’s her crazy brother who’s out to claim her as well. Besides being highly emotional, this book packs a whole bunch of action as well. I did feel sorry for Sebastian, cause this happens so much with Military men and woman and I can’t imagine coming home excited only to have your heart broken. I can’t wait to read his story and see if he can find true love. There’s a bond between Ashton and Ava that can’t be broken, It was just meant to be this way from the start. He helped her so much thru this book and I don’t think she would have came out as strong as she was if it wasn’t for him. He was so cute and shy but turned Alpha male when he needed his woman back. Ashton is definitely a new book boyfriend that I love!!!
August 28, 2014
Holy WOW, tissues are a must with this book, if not actually in tears you are never far away. I was close to blubbering by the end of chapter 1, end of chapter 4 I had already cried!!!
This is totally emotional book, but definitely worth a read. It shows Ava and her struggles after her daughter is born 3 months premature, whist her boyfriend is away serving in Afghanistan. Her best friend Caleb was also out of the country when she gave birth meaning, poor Ava was all alone. She has to sit and watch her 2lb 2oz baby struggle and fight for her life.
Caleb, her friend returns as soon as he knows what’s happened but it takes a few weeks for Sebastian, her boyfriend to return on emergency leave. Unfortunately he can only stay for 2 short weeks before having to return to his unit, leaving Ava in the hands of Caleb.
Through her time in the NICU Ava gets close to her daughter’s doctor, Ashton, they both feel a strong attraction to each other and the pull is unbelievable. Ava fights it as long as she can, but when other family matters come up she turns to Ashton and all her walls crumble. She feels incredibly guilty about Sebastian as they are supposed to be getting married once he leaves the army.
As the relationship becomes stronger, she tells the secrets from her past, which only Caleb knows, Ashton is there to help and support in all the hard times that come their way, and man o man are there a lot.
As I said this is such an emotional story and without giving all the details away I don’t feel that I can do justice to how amazing this was. It definitely took a lot of research is what I can say, you feel that from the offset.
This is totally emotional book, but definitely worth a read. It shows Ava and her struggles after her daughter is born 3 months premature, whist her boyfriend is away serving in Afghanistan. Her best friend Caleb was also out of the country when she gave birth meaning, poor Ava was all alone. She has to sit and watch her 2lb 2oz baby struggle and fight for her life.
Caleb, her friend returns as soon as he knows what’s happened but it takes a few weeks for Sebastian, her boyfriend to return on emergency leave. Unfortunately he can only stay for 2 short weeks before having to return to his unit, leaving Ava in the hands of Caleb.
Through her time in the NICU Ava gets close to her daughter’s doctor, Ashton, they both feel a strong attraction to each other and the pull is unbelievable. Ava fights it as long as she can, but when other family matters come up she turns to Ashton and all her walls crumble. She feels incredibly guilty about Sebastian as they are supposed to be getting married once he leaves the army.
As the relationship becomes stronger, she tells the secrets from her past, which only Caleb knows, Ashton is there to help and support in all the hard times that come their way, and man o man are there a lot.
As I said this is such an emotional story and without giving all the details away I don’t feel that I can do justice to how amazing this was. It definitely took a lot of research is what I can say, you feel that from the offset.
September 18, 2015
Book 1 in the look after you series, 3 books in the series
I am writing this review after finishing all 3 books,,
I loved this book, it was an emotional rollercoaster..
This book has some sensitive subjects, cheating, rape, and suicide.. but the author writes about the subjects amazingly well.
I usually hate books that have cheating and this book has it !!
It was a heart-breaking read, as the guy (Sebastian) the victim of the cheating, is one of the sweetest most loving, caring man I have ever read about and I just hated the fact he was cheated on. But after reading book 2 I feel so much better about the situation, everything happens for a reason.
Other than the cheating this book was epic!!!.. it has everything needed to make a great novel, sexy swoon worthy men, a strong female, hot sex, laugh out loud moments and ugly crying.
I loved the character's, Ava-(lead female) she has had a really terrible past and goes through a lot in this book. Sebastian-(Ava's boyfriend) is the most amazing man I have ever met, his love for Ava is out of this world. I really felt for him in this book (poor Seb).
Ashton-(baby's doctor) he is all man, really sexy and totally swoon worthy. He is a shoulder to cry on when Ava needs it most, when Sebastian is in Afghanistan fighting for his country. Caleb-(Ava's friend) his is a awesome guy and the best friend a girl could ask for. He is her rock and emotional punch bag when needed.
This book had me gripped from the very first page till the last, I just couldn't put it down and read it in one sitting.
OVERALL - an awesome emotional 5* read, you will want to dive straight into book 2 as soon as you finish
I am writing this review after finishing all 3 books,,
I loved this book, it was an emotional rollercoaster..
This book has some sensitive subjects, cheating, rape, and suicide.. but the author writes about the subjects amazingly well.
I usually hate books that have cheating and this book has it !!
It was a heart-breaking read, as the guy (Sebastian) the victim of the cheating, is one of the sweetest most loving, caring man I have ever read about and I just hated the fact he was cheated on. But after reading book 2 I feel so much better about the situation, everything happens for a reason.
Other than the cheating this book was epic!!!.. it has everything needed to make a great novel, sexy swoon worthy men, a strong female, hot sex, laugh out loud moments and ugly crying.
I loved the character's, Ava-(lead female) she has had a really terrible past and goes through a lot in this book. Sebastian-(Ava's boyfriend) is the most amazing man I have ever met, his love for Ava is out of this world. I really felt for him in this book (poor Seb).
Ashton-(baby's doctor) he is all man, really sexy and totally swoon worthy. He is a shoulder to cry on when Ava needs it most, when Sebastian is in Afghanistan fighting for his country. Caleb-(Ava's friend) his is a awesome guy and the best friend a girl could ask for. He is her rock and emotional punch bag when needed.
This book had me gripped from the very first page till the last, I just couldn't put it down and read it in one sitting.
OVERALL - an awesome emotional 5* read, you will want to dive straight into book 2 as soon as you finish
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