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Sanctuary of Mine
This is an alternate cover edition for ASIN B00E0D3QIG.
THIS IS A NEW ADULT NOVEL. RECOMMENDED FOR 17+ YEARS DUE TO SEXUAL CONTENT AND SOCIAL SITUATIONS
When you see someone who looks like they need saving, you save them right?
Mackenzie Deeks is struggling. Outwardly she plays the tough guy and acts like being a young adult with an eating disorder is no big deal. Inside, she's crumbling.
Ever since her parents’ divorce, the only way she has been able to feel in control of her life is by purging the despair that has its grips on her and won't let go.
Tyler Redding knows when someone needs help - he's seen it before. This time, though, he's not going to take no for an answer. From the moment he first sets his sights on Mackenzie, he's unable to think of anyone else. But how can he focus on a football career when all he wants to do is date the most unassuming person he's ever met?
As their lives become intricately entwined, it becomes more than wishful thinking when Mackenzie and Tyler find each other again as adults. With successful careers, a beachside lifestyle and each other’s love to contend with, life should be pretty damn good. But just when they think they’ve found their wonderful kind of normal, their perfect world comes crashing down.
It’s going to take a lot to keep Mackenzie from succumbing to old habits, but Tyler thinks he might just be the one to save her for good.
THIS IS A NEW ADULT NOVEL. RECOMMENDED FOR 17+ YEARS DUE TO SEXUAL CONTENT AND SOCIAL SITUATIONS
When you see someone who looks like they need saving, you save them right?
Mackenzie Deeks is struggling. Outwardly she plays the tough guy and acts like being a young adult with an eating disorder is no big deal. Inside, she's crumbling.
Ever since her parents’ divorce, the only way she has been able to feel in control of her life is by purging the despair that has its grips on her and won't let go.
Tyler Redding knows when someone needs help - he's seen it before. This time, though, he's not going to take no for an answer. From the moment he first sets his sights on Mackenzie, he's unable to think of anyone else. But how can he focus on a football career when all he wants to do is date the most unassuming person he's ever met?
As their lives become intricately entwined, it becomes more than wishful thinking when Mackenzie and Tyler find each other again as adults. With successful careers, a beachside lifestyle and each other’s love to contend with, life should be pretty damn good. But just when they think they’ve found their wonderful kind of normal, their perfect world comes crashing down.
It’s going to take a lot to keep Mackenzie from succumbing to old habits, but Tyler thinks he might just be the one to save her for good.
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First published July 13, 2013
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About the author
Shelly Pratt
20 books169 followersShelly Pratt also writes under the pseudonym Stevie Harlow.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 75 reviews
July 25, 2013
4.5 Control Yourself Stars
Holy Schmoly. So after I read this book I did a bit of research before writing the review. Because I'm a professional. Ok not really. Professional means you get paid. I do not get paid to write reviews. I just like it. But I want to write good reviews, so OF COURSE I did research on Aussie Futbol. Know what I found out? Those rugby players like to have their picture taken nekkid. Yes. Nekkid. With nothing covering their "Down Under" but a football. You see the things I do for you to have a good review?!? Yes, its all for you, my friends and fellow book lovers. I had to look at lots...lots...of pictures to find one with some clothes on. You're welcome.
Control. It's amazing how much you want it when you feel like you have none. The lengths people will go to in order feel a bit of control over their lives. Mackenzie needs that control. So she takes it.
Mackenzie does not feel that she has much say in her life. Her mother and father are divorced. She hardly gets to see her dad, whom she adores and she fights all the time with her mother. So where does she exert control? Over her body. She decides what she will eat. Or rather what she will not eat. She goes to elaborate measures to hide her lack of eating. She just wants to be under the radar at home and at school.
Remaining invisible is my key priority.
Tyler sees her. He sees a beautiful girl who is hiding her pain and her eating disorder. He should know. He has experience with it. Tyler is a footballer. That's Aussie Futbol. Rugby as we call it here. He slowly breaks through Mackenzie's barriers to get close to her.
I think she'd be worth the fight.
There are so many things keeping them apart. Her self-doubt, his parents' job, his non-disclosure, her emotinoal baggage. This is a tale that might have a happy ending, but always reminds you that not everyone gets a HEA.
And when you find the one that you feel in your bones your're meant to be with, you hold on to that feeling like our life depends on it.
And sometimes your life does. Sometimes you save each other.
Holy Schmoly. So after I read this book I did a bit of research before writing the review. Because I'm a professional. Ok not really. Professional means you get paid. I do not get paid to write reviews. I just like it. But I want to write good reviews, so OF COURSE I did research on Aussie Futbol. Know what I found out? Those rugby players like to have their picture taken nekkid. Yes. Nekkid. With nothing covering their "Down Under" but a football. You see the things I do for you to have a good review?!? Yes, its all for you, my friends and fellow book lovers. I had to look at lots...lots...of pictures to find one with some clothes on. You're welcome.
Control. It's amazing how much you want it when you feel like you have none. The lengths people will go to in order feel a bit of control over their lives. Mackenzie needs that control. So she takes it.
Mackenzie does not feel that she has much say in her life. Her mother and father are divorced. She hardly gets to see her dad, whom she adores and she fights all the time with her mother. So where does she exert control? Over her body. She decides what she will eat. Or rather what she will not eat. She goes to elaborate measures to hide her lack of eating. She just wants to be under the radar at home and at school.
Remaining invisible is my key priority.
Tyler sees her. He sees a beautiful girl who is hiding her pain and her eating disorder. He should know. He has experience with it. Tyler is a footballer. That's Aussie Futbol. Rugby as we call it here. He slowly breaks through Mackenzie's barriers to get close to her.
I think she'd be worth the fight.
There are so many things keeping them apart. Her self-doubt, his parents' job, his non-disclosure, her emotinoal baggage. This is a tale that might have a happy ending, but always reminds you that not everyone gets a HEA.
And when you find the one that you feel in your bones your're meant to be with, you hold on to that feeling like our life depends on it.
And sometimes your life does. Sometimes you save each other.
August 27, 2013
I've read great reviews on this book; therefore decided to read it... I don't even know why I finished it... I guess there was potential to this book and a couple of "awww. that's so cute" moments... I'm going to write an honest review about how I feel therefore I'm sorry for those who did enjoy the book. People really do have different tastes and opinions.
There may be some spoilers...
How I felt reading this book:
OK! Enough faces! I'll get to my point!
This story is based on a girl (Mackenzie) who struggles with Anorexia. She meets boy (Tyler) falls in love. Boy tries to help her. She gets pissed because boy hides some secrets. Boy leaves. She regrets. Boy comes back. She's happy. Shit happens and they're happy again.
This book had a lot of potential. HONESTLY..
Where to start.
The beginning of the book indicates that Mackenzie has a normal relationship with her mom. Mackenzie's mom is also not the controlling or annoying mom. I thought she was just being a normal mom. We learn in the beginning that her Anorexia is caused by her parents divorce. Suddenly we learn that Mackenzie become an anorexic because of her mom's hateful words during a fight with her dad. Mackenzie's dad seems absent in her life as if he abandoned her, but he pops out of nowhere. Spends a lot of time with her and blablabla. The story is just ALL OVER THE PLACE.
Mackenzie never dated Tyler. They didn't even have each other phone numbers. They hung out 3 times before he left. Suddenly they are so in love. She is so heart broken when he leaves. They have a long distance relationship. They write letters to each other. WTF happened to phones?! Skype?! The insta romance was so unrealistic. I could not feel their connection at all! There was not connection to begin with. All they know about each other is their favorite color..favorite food...blablabla. On their first date Tyler takes Mackenzie to meet his parents...After dinner Tyler and Mackenzie do some frisky business...then Mackenzie flips out because Tyler didn't tell her that his sister died of Anorexia. BOOM!
There's this part where Mackenzie gets an internship at a law firm. There's a creepy guy there. He unintentionally keeps touching her boobs and says creepy things. Mackenzie was freaked out, but didn't say anything to anyone about it. She almost gets raped by him. Tyler saves her, and she gets turned on. She almost got raped for Godsake and she gets horny when Tyler saves her!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
This scene was so similar to FSOG!
I was not having a connection to this book. It was not believable!!!
Anorexia/bulimia is such a serious problem. It's scary and terrifying.
This book seriously did not show any sides of that. It showed what anorexia could do to someone, but there wasn't anything emotional about it.
I'm done ranting about this book. I'm sorry I didn't enjoy it... :(
There may be some spoilers...
How I felt reading this book:
OK! Enough faces! I'll get to my point!
This story is based on a girl (Mackenzie) who struggles with Anorexia. She meets boy (Tyler) falls in love. Boy tries to help her. She gets pissed because boy hides some secrets. Boy leaves. She regrets. Boy comes back. She's happy. Shit happens and they're happy again.
This book had a lot of potential. HONESTLY..
Where to start.
The beginning of the book indicates that Mackenzie has a normal relationship with her mom. Mackenzie's mom is also not the controlling or annoying mom. I thought she was just being a normal mom. We learn in the beginning that her Anorexia is caused by her parents divorce. Suddenly we learn that Mackenzie become an anorexic because of her mom's hateful words during a fight with her dad. Mackenzie's dad seems absent in her life as if he abandoned her, but he pops out of nowhere. Spends a lot of time with her and blablabla. The story is just ALL OVER THE PLACE.
Mackenzie never dated Tyler. They didn't even have each other phone numbers. They hung out 3 times before he left. Suddenly they are so in love. She is so heart broken when he leaves. They have a long distance relationship. They write letters to each other. WTF happened to phones?! Skype?! The insta romance was so unrealistic. I could not feel their connection at all! There was not connection to begin with. All they know about each other is their favorite color..favorite food...blablabla. On their first date Tyler takes Mackenzie to meet his parents...After dinner Tyler and Mackenzie do some frisky business...then Mackenzie flips out because Tyler didn't tell her that his sister died of Anorexia. BOOM!
There's this part where Mackenzie gets an internship at a law firm. There's a creepy guy there. He unintentionally keeps touching her boobs and says creepy things. Mackenzie was freaked out, but didn't say anything to anyone about it. She almost gets raped by him. Tyler saves her, and she gets turned on. She almost got raped for Godsake and she gets horny when Tyler saves her!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
This scene was so similar to FSOG!
I was not having a connection to this book. It was not believable!!!
Anorexia/bulimia is such a serious problem. It's scary and terrifying.
This book seriously did not show any sides of that. It showed what anorexia could do to someone, but there wasn't anything emotional about it.
I'm done ranting about this book. I'm sorry I didn't enjoy it... :(
July 19, 2013
Well fuck me.... This book did what books are supposed to do! I was so lost in the world of Tyler and Mack that the last line was upon me before i realised it!
And what a last line too!
Tyler was such a freaking hottie and sweetheart...new swoon material here.
This novel is set in Australia and maybe cause i'm Aussie and could actually picture the sceanery and understand some of the slang(which there isn't a lot of) may have helped me enjoy it a bit more i don't know, all i know is that i was starting a book and the next it was a few hours later and i was done!
This is definately a character driven book rather than plot driven. Although i thought it started a bit slowly it didn't take me longer to fall in love with these guys as a couple. These guys go thru a couple of ups and downs but the strength of their relationship shines thru with the way they handle situations. There is no bullshit immature back and for crap like i have been reading a lot of lately.
A situation arises,they deal,they accept,and move on stronger than ever. This books deals with a serious issue that i felt was dealt with remarkably. The other key issues here are trust, honesty, love and devotion beyond the realm of this existence.
Too much has passed between us to just let her slip through my fingers. I need her, I want her,and she’s woven herself so intricately into my heart that without her I’m finding it hard to breathe.
My absolutely favorite passage in the book, even now after finishing, it is staying with me.
So i throughly enjoyed this book and am off now to recommend to all my friends!
Tyler was such a freaking hottie and sweetheart...new swoon material here.
This novel is set in Australia and maybe cause i'm Aussie and could actually picture the sceanery and understand some of the slang(which there isn't a lot of) may have helped me enjoy it a bit more i don't know, all i know is that i was starting a book and the next it was a few hours later and i was done!
This is definately a character driven book rather than plot driven. Although i thought it started a bit slowly it didn't take me longer to fall in love with these guys as a couple. These guys go thru a couple of ups and downs but the strength of their relationship shines thru with the way they handle situations. There is no bullshit immature back and for crap like i have been reading a lot of lately.
A situation arises,they deal,they accept,and move on stronger than ever. This books deals with a serious issue that i felt was dealt with remarkably. The other key issues here are trust, honesty, love and devotion beyond the realm of this existence.
Too much has passed between us to just let her slip through my fingers. I need her, I want her,and she’s woven herself so intricately into my heart that without her I’m finding it hard to breathe.
My absolutely favorite passage in the book, even now after finishing, it is staying with me.
So i throughly enjoyed this book and am off now to recommend to all my friends!
July 14, 2013
***I received an arc but it was that good I also bought it****
Shelly Pratt never disappoint me as a reader. NEVER!
She always gives me something new and fresh and with SOM she followed through for me in my expectations, and I have HIGH expectations
.
Another kleenex award for this one.
A New Adult romance and offering a fresh subject, one I haven't seen yet. That's how this author rolls though and I love her for it.
SOM made me look at a particular subject (an eating disorder) with different eyes and that's always a good thing. I'm being vague because I HATE spoilers and wouldn't do that to you.
I love The characters and the relationship between the sub characters and main. I call this the putty. Every story needs the putty to give substance and this one has good putty.
I almost could have killed Shelly from afar, but she pulls through for me every time. Another reason I love her.
Set in Australia, Mack and Tyler have me on the edge of a broken heart hoping for that magic HEA.
It's a must read and well worth the five freaking stars!
Shelly Pratt never disappoint me as a reader. NEVER!
She always gives me something new and fresh and with SOM she followed through for me in my expectations, and I have HIGH expectations
.
Another kleenex award for this one.
A New Adult romance and offering a fresh subject, one I haven't seen yet. That's how this author rolls though and I love her for it.
SOM made me look at a particular subject (an eating disorder) with different eyes and that's always a good thing. I'm being vague because I HATE spoilers and wouldn't do that to you.
I love The characters and the relationship between the sub characters and main. I call this the putty. Every story needs the putty to give substance and this one has good putty.
I almost could have killed Shelly from afar, but she pulls through for me every time. Another reason I love her.
Set in Australia, Mack and Tyler have me on the edge of a broken heart hoping for that magic HEA.
It's a must read and well worth the five freaking stars!
July 25, 2013
Emotional book...
Wow.. that was a crazy roller coaster ride! It's so emotional that after reading this book I still felt dazed and sad throughout the day. LOL.
Okay character wise, I didn't feel the connection with the heroine.. as in at all. Yes I feel sorry for her but her character is just too.. erm. annoying TSTL. Everything for her was too dramatic but since she's only a teen I feel like maybe... just maybe it's because of her age that's why her attitude was like that. But other than that, I think the author did a great job on Mackenzie's issue with Bulimia (eating disorder)
Also, it was heartbreaking to read the "accident" that happened in the last part of the story.. :(
Now.. Tyler.. hehe. I think he's one of the perfect book boyfriend I have ever read! He's character was solid and very likeable that by then end of the book I just fell in love with him! The way he supported Mackenzie was awesome!
The epilogue was great and touching! This is a must read if you're looking for some emotional read! I highly recommend this book!
Wow.. that was a crazy roller coaster ride! It's so emotional that after reading this book I still felt dazed and sad throughout the day. LOL.
Okay character wise, I didn't feel the connection with the heroine.. as in at all. Yes I feel sorry for her but her character is just too.. erm. annoying TSTL. Everything for her was too dramatic but since she's only a teen I feel like maybe... just maybe it's because of her age that's why her attitude was like that. But other than that, I think the author did a great job on Mackenzie's issue with Bulimia (eating disorder)
Also, it was heartbreaking to read the "accident" that happened in the last part of the story.. :(
Now.. Tyler.. hehe. I think he's one of the perfect book boyfriend I have ever read! He's character was solid and very likeable that by then end of the book I just fell in love with him! The way he supported Mackenzie was awesome!
The epilogue was great and touching! This is a must read if you're looking for some emotional read! I highly recommend this book!
July 18, 2013
“Too much has passed between us to just let her slip through my fingers. I need her, I want her, and she’s woven herself so intricately into my heart that without her I’m finding it hard to breathe.”
This has got to be the easiest review I ever wrote. Why, you ask? Because not only I LOVED the book but I can relate to it. While writing the review might be easy, reading the book was not; at least not some parts. It hit too close to home, making me relieve some very painful memories that were long forgotten.
This story is real and raw and talks about things that most of us don’t feel comfortable talking about. Things that I’ve experienced and many young girls out there are experiencing right this moment. Mackenzie Deeks is struggling to get over her parents’ divorce the best way she can and in the process she develops an eating disorder. Moving to a new town and starting at a new school, does not help either. She hides from the world the best she can.
Tyler Redding feels a pull towards Mackenzie and, from experience, he knows that she needs help. When he starts showing his interest, Mackenzie is having a hard time believing that someone like him would even know her name. Tyler is every young girl’s dream: handsome, hardworking, romantic, caring, and patient. Together they embark on a journey of ups and downs but love has a way to conquer all.
I finished the story in less than a day and I've cried some ugly tears. BUT this has to be one of THE BEST books I’ve read this year, and I’ve read some really good ones. It is original, very well written, perfect pace, and very realistic. I hope every woman (young and not so young) has the chance to read this story.
“There’s something very peaceful about being in love. It can make you light as a feather; so blissfully unaware of anything else of importance. It can make you feel anger, rage, jealousy, and lust all in one sentence.”
August 7, 2013
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There is no way I'm letting the woman I love succumb to her demons.
I absolutely fell in love with this story that was about dealing with the hard stuff in your life and allowing the people who love you to help you do that. It tells the story of Mackenzie and Tyler. Mackenzie has been dealing with her parent's divorce and an eating disorder that stemmed from that. Tyler is a year older than her in school and is the hot guy that she never thought would ever notice her. He also has heartbreak in his life. Together they take a journey towards love and healing.
Tyler's not like other boys. There's something more to him than just good looks. He cares.
Tyler is the kind of boy every mother wants for their daughter. Not only is he good looking and easy to like, he is so caring and thoughtful too. He is just what Mackenzie needed in her life - someone who sees her and supports her through everything without trying to force change upon her. Mackenzie is a great character too. I felt for her and saw the topic of eating disorders through new eyes. I actually feel a new sympathy for people who struggle with this illness and I take my hat off to Shelly for that because for a writer to give someone a whole new perspective on something is not an easy thing to do. She has written this story so well; she leads the reader gently through Mackenzies struggle so that we can see the hows and whys of it as well as the effort it takes to recover from it.
This was a beautiful romantic read with a great epilogue. I cried quite a few times in the book, particularly during the epilogue but there were happy tears in there. This is a stand alone novel with a HEA; I recommend it to everyone.
There is no way I'm letting the woman I love succumb to her demons.
I absolutely fell in love with this story that was about dealing with the hard stuff in your life and allowing the people who love you to help you do that. It tells the story of Mackenzie and Tyler. Mackenzie has been dealing with her parent's divorce and an eating disorder that stemmed from that. Tyler is a year older than her in school and is the hot guy that she never thought would ever notice her. He also has heartbreak in his life. Together they take a journey towards love and healing.
Tyler's not like other boys. There's something more to him than just good looks. He cares.
Tyler is the kind of boy every mother wants for their daughter. Not only is he good looking and easy to like, he is so caring and thoughtful too. He is just what Mackenzie needed in her life - someone who sees her and supports her through everything without trying to force change upon her. Mackenzie is a great character too. I felt for her and saw the topic of eating disorders through new eyes. I actually feel a new sympathy for people who struggle with this illness and I take my hat off to Shelly for that because for a writer to give someone a whole new perspective on something is not an easy thing to do. She has written this story so well; she leads the reader gently through Mackenzies struggle so that we can see the hows and whys of it as well as the effort it takes to recover from it.
This was a beautiful romantic read with a great epilogue. I cried quite a few times in the book, particularly during the epilogue but there were happy tears in there. This is a stand alone novel with a HEA; I recommend it to everyone.
July 14, 2013
Another wonderful novel from S. Pratt. I enjoyed this one immensely. Loved it, loved it, loved it.
Told from dual POVs----I found myself just as captivated by MacKenzie (aka: Mack) as I was by the swoon-worthy Tyler.
Touches on heavy subject matter (eating disorders) in a realistic way. The characters are also realistic, their emotions intense and sweet.
I highly recommend this to anyone who appreciates a good romance. I laughed, I cried (once at the same time), I swooned.
And the ending.....oh the ending.
Grab this one!!!!!!
Told from dual POVs----I found myself just as captivated by MacKenzie (aka: Mack) as I was by the swoon-worthy Tyler.
Touches on heavy subject matter (eating disorders) in a realistic way. The characters are also realistic, their emotions intense and sweet.
I highly recommend this to anyone who appreciates a good romance. I laughed, I cried (once at the same time), I swooned.
And the ending.....oh the ending.
Grab this one!!!!!!
August 7, 2013
Sanctuary of Mine by S. Pratt
Rated: 4 Stars
Genre: New Adult
Purchase Sanctuary Of Mine
This book had some pretty tough issues to read about. Sanctuary of Mine focuses on a disease known as Bulimia as well as other eating disorders like anorexia. It’s the first book I have ever read that goes into such graphic detail about the person with the eating disorder and what their day to day life entails. This book was definitely an eye opener on how easily this disease can affect the one’s we love and never even show the outward signs until it’s too late. Make no mistake, eating disorders can do more than make you lose an obscene amount of weight, they can kill you. Heart attacks are the most common cause of death for those battling an eating disorder. S. Pratt doesn’t sugar coat the problem, she faces it head on in a very respectful yet informative way.
Mackenzie is a junior in high school with an eating disorder. In order to understand her need to control her food this way we have to go back to when the problems first started. Three years ago her whole world crumbled before her eyes when her parents were divorced. Mackenzie heard their heated argument the day they decided it was time to divorce. For a young impressionable girl who had no idea things were this bad in her family, she was completely devastated. But that wasn’t the only thing that set the course for her future that night. She was listening to her parents argue through the bedroom door and heard some things said that were more than likely said out of anger, but truly hurt her. She has lingering issues with anger towards her mother, and she misses her father more than anything.
“Watching her chew and swallow her food already makes me feel nauseous. Perhaps if she’d lost a little weight, took a little more pride in her appearance, maybe dad would have stayed?
It’s a cruel thing to think, but there it is.”
“I look a complete and utter mess, not at all like the pretty girl my dad used to call me. But for some reason, I feel better and in control. It’s like with one simple purge I feel like a weight as been lifted from my shoulders. That feeling is kind of euphoric, which makes doing it kind of addictive.”
As a junior in a new high school, Mackenzie does her best to stay in the shadows going unnoticed and avoid making any friends. She uses her ability to control her food intake as a measure of discipline. It’s the only thing in her life she feel like she can control, so she does so in drastic measures. She is picked on and whispered about but she doesn’t care what anyone thinks about her. But for some reason when she witnesses some senior jocks picking on a boy named Levi in the hall, she steps in to defend him. When it appears all she has actually accomplished is diverting their attention from Levi to herself, Tyler steps in to save the day. After that Mackenzie and Levi were thick as thieves.
“I may not be able to control who loves me and who likes me. Who stays and who goes. But one thing is for certain. I can control this. Somehow that rings untrue as the little voice inside my head taunts me too. It controls you! It controls you!”
I LOVE Levi!!! He is exactly like Mackenzie yet her complete opposite in some ways. He is supportive and friendly. He doesn't push her on the issue of her eating disorder because he sort of has a problem with food himself. He is outgoing where she is a recluse. He really brings her to life with his friendship.
“Funny how two people can have such a different relationship with food. I avoid it, wanting some sort of control when I know other things are beyond it. He seems to like food – too much. It would appear in order to replace his misery he feeds himself to feel some sort of happiness.”
Tyler is insanely attractive, star of the football team, and an all around good guy. Tyler has a special background that blends with Mackenzie’s disease. His older sister died of a heart attack 3 years ago as a direct result of her eating disorder. He and his sister were four years apart and extremely close before she started suffering from anorexia. He watched her fade away in terms of health as well as the loving sister he once knew. She became moody, secretive and angry. When she died he lost a large part of himself, but he did something to help others in her memory. He started a charity to help others like his sister beat the disease.
“Kind2Me has given me and my parents a sense of peace. We may have lost Kelly, but in her memory we aim to give others a fighting chance at beating the disease.”
He has had his eye on Mackenzie for a while now. Part of him sees a part of his sister in Mackenzie and can tell she is struggling with her disorder as well as some other deep rooted issue that is causing her to turn away from food. He slowly starts to win her over by taking her out for impromptu meals and trying to spend time with her whenever she will allow it. He starts to change her for the better. He doesn’t address her issue, knowing it would send her running. He lets her start to change on her own. While helping her regain control of her life and disorder he does one thing wrong. He doesn’t tell her about his sister. When she finds out he runs thinking he is only with her out of pity.
“I want to know why she likes the solitude. I want to know what makes her laugh, what makes her tick. What turns her on? Mentally”
“I think she’d be worth the fight.’
‘Then son, I’d say this girl is very lucky to have your interest.”
“Good, well I’ll see you around Mack. Later, Levi."
‘Mack?’
‘Like a Mack truck. You floor me like a Mack truck.”
Mackenzie is devastated once again and refuses to listen to his explanations. While she is hiding, Tyler's father has accepted a job that will move his family to another part of he country. Mackenzie is about to lose the best thing that ever happened to her. She has a decision to make...let him go or take control and go after what she wants for once.
“Tyler’s not like other boys. There’s a something more to him than just good looks. He cares.”
I'm gonna stop here because I don't want to give anything away. Just know that the most heartbreaking part of this story has yet to occur. And when you read it, it's going to have you close to tears screaming NO! This book is about a young woman regaining control of her life and finding love and forgiveness along the way. There is no cliff hanger and Mackenzie does get her HEA. I'd rate this book at 4 Stars!
July 18, 2013
“Too much has passed between us to just let her slip through my fingers. I need her, I want her, and she’s woven herself so intricately into my heart that without her I’m finding it hard to breathe.”
This book had some pretty tough issues to read about. Sanctuary of Mine focuses on a disease known as Bulimia as well as other eating disorders like anorexia. It’s the first book I have ever read that goes into such graphic detail about the person with the eating disorder and what their day to day life entails. This book was definitely an eye opener on how easily this disease can affect the one’s we love and never even show the outward signs until it’s too late. Make no mistake, eating disorders can do more than make you lose an obscene amount of weight, they can kill you. Heart attacks are the most common cause of death for those battling an eating disorder. S. Pratt doesn’t sugar coat the problem, she faces it head on in a very respectful yet informative way.
Mackenzie is a junior in high school with an eating disorder. In order to understand her need to control her food this way we have to go back to when the problems first started. Three years ago her whole world crumbled before her eyes when her parents were divorced. Mackenzie heard their heated argument the day they decided it was time to divorce. For a young impressionable girl who had no idea things were this bad in her family, she was completely devastated. But that wasn’t the only thing that set the course for her future that night. She was listening to her parents argue through the bedroom door and heard some things said that were more than likely said out of anger, but truly hurt her. She has lingering issues with anger towards her mother, and she misses her father more than anything.
As a junior in a new high school, Mackenzie does her best to stay in the shadows going unnoticed and avoid making any friends. She uses her ability to control her food intake as a measure of discipline. It’s the only thing in her life she feel like she can control, so she does so in drastic measures. She is picked on and whispered about but she doesn’t care what anyone thinks about her. But for some reason when she witnesses some senior jocks picking on a boy named Levi in the hall, she steps in to defend him. When it appears all she has actually accomplished is diverting their attention from Levi to herself, Tyler steps in to save the day. After that Mackenzie and Levi were thick as thieves.
I LOVE Levi!!! He is exactly like Mackenzie yet her complete opposite in some ways. He is supportive and friendly. He doesn't push her on the issue of her eating disorder because he sort of has a problem with food himself. He is outgoing where she is a recluse. He really brings her to life with his friendship.
Tyler is insanely attractive, star of the football team, and an all around good guy. Tyler has a special background that blends with Mackenzie’s disease. His older sister died of a heart attack 3 years ago as a direct result of her eating disorder. He and his sister were four years apart and extremely close before she started suffering from anorexia. He watched her fade away in terms of health as well as the loving sister he once knew. She became moody, secretive and angry. When she died he lost a large part of himself, but he did something to help others in her memory. He started a charity to help others like his sister beat the disease.
He has had his eye on Mackenzie for a while now. Part of him sees a part of his sister in Mackenzie and can tell she is struggling with her disorder as well as some other deep rooted issue that is causing her to turn away from food. He slowly starts to win her over by taking her out for impromptu meals and trying to spend time with her whenever she will allow it. He starts to change her for the better. He doesn’t address her issue, knowing it would send her running. He lets her start to change on her own. While helping her regain control of her life and disorder he does one thing wrong. He doesn’t tell her about his sister. When she finds out he runs thinking he is only with her out of pity.
Mackenzie is devastated once again and refuses to listen to his explanations. While she is hiding, Tyler's father has accepted a job that will move his family to another part of he country. Mackenzie is about to lose the best thing that ever happened to her. She has a decision to make...let him go or take control and go after what she wants for once.
I'm gonna stop here because I don't want to give anything away. Just know that the most heartbreaking part of this story has yet to occur. And when you read it, it's going to have you close to tears screaming NO! This book is about a young woman regaining control of her life and finding love and forgiveness along the way. There is no cliff hanger and Mackenzie does get her HEA. I'd rate this book at 4-4.5 Stars!
This book had some pretty tough issues to read about. Sanctuary of Mine focuses on a disease known as Bulimia as well as other eating disorders like anorexia. It’s the first book I have ever read that goes into such graphic detail about the person with the eating disorder and what their day to day life entails. This book was definitely an eye opener on how easily this disease can affect the one’s we love and never even show the outward signs until it’s too late. Make no mistake, eating disorders can do more than make you lose an obscene amount of weight, they can kill you. Heart attacks are the most common cause of death for those battling an eating disorder. S. Pratt doesn’t sugar coat the problem, she faces it head on in a very respectful yet informative way.
Mackenzie is a junior in high school with an eating disorder. In order to understand her need to control her food this way we have to go back to when the problems first started. Three years ago her whole world crumbled before her eyes when her parents were divorced. Mackenzie heard their heated argument the day they decided it was time to divorce. For a young impressionable girl who had no idea things were this bad in her family, she was completely devastated. But that wasn’t the only thing that set the course for her future that night. She was listening to her parents argue through the bedroom door and heard some things said that were more than likely said out of anger, but truly hurt her. She has lingering issues with anger towards her mother, and she misses her father more than anything.
“Watching her chew and swallow her food already makes me feel nauseous. Perhaps if she’d lost a little weight, took a little more pride in her appearance, maybe dad would have stayed?
It’s a cruel thing to think, but there it is.”
“I look a complete and utter mess, not at all like the pretty girl my dad used to call me. But for some reason, I feel better and in control. It’s like with one simple purge I feel like a weight as been lifted from my shoulders. That feeling is kind of euphoric, which makes doing it kind of addictive.”
As a junior in a new high school, Mackenzie does her best to stay in the shadows going unnoticed and avoid making any friends. She uses her ability to control her food intake as a measure of discipline. It’s the only thing in her life she feel like she can control, so she does so in drastic measures. She is picked on and whispered about but she doesn’t care what anyone thinks about her. But for some reason when she witnesses some senior jocks picking on a boy named Levi in the hall, she steps in to defend him. When it appears all she has actually accomplished is diverting their attention from Levi to herself, Tyler steps in to save the day. After that Mackenzie and Levi were thick as thieves.
“I may not be able to control who loves me and who likes me. Who stays and who goes. But one thing is for certain. I can control this. Somehow that rings untrue as the little voice inside my head taunts me too. It controls you! It controls you!”
I LOVE Levi!!! He is exactly like Mackenzie yet her complete opposite in some ways. He is supportive and friendly. He doesn't push her on the issue of her eating disorder because he sort of has a problem with food himself. He is outgoing where she is a recluse. He really brings her to life with his friendship.
“Funny how two people can have such a different relationship with food. I avoid it, wanting some sort of control when I know other things are beyond it. He seems to like food – too much. It would appear in order to replace his misery he feeds himself to feel some sort of happiness.”
Tyler is insanely attractive, star of the football team, and an all around good guy. Tyler has a special background that blends with Mackenzie’s disease. His older sister died of a heart attack 3 years ago as a direct result of her eating disorder. He and his sister were four years apart and extremely close before she started suffering from anorexia. He watched her fade away in terms of health as well as the loving sister he once knew. She became moody, secretive and angry. When she died he lost a large part of himself, but he did something to help others in her memory. He started a charity to help others like his sister beat the disease.
“Kind2Me has given me and my parents a sense of peace. We may have lost Kelly, but in her memory we aim to give others a fighting chance at beating the disease.”
He has had his eye on Mackenzie for a while now. Part of him sees a part of his sister in Mackenzie and can tell she is struggling with her disorder as well as some other deep rooted issue that is causing her to turn away from food. He slowly starts to win her over by taking her out for impromptu meals and trying to spend time with her whenever she will allow it. He starts to change her for the better. He doesn’t address her issue, knowing it would send her running. He lets her start to change on her own. While helping her regain control of her life and disorder he does one thing wrong. He doesn’t tell her about his sister. When she finds out he runs thinking he is only with her out of pity.
“I want to know why she likes the solitude. I want to know what makes her laugh, what makes her tick. What turns her on? Mentally”
“I think she’d be worth the fight.’
‘Then son, I’d say this girl is very lucky to have your interest.”
“Good, well I’ll see you around Mack. Later, Levi."
‘Mack?’
‘Like a Mack truck. You floor me like a Mack truck.”
Mackenzie is devastated once again and refuses to listen to his explanations. While she is hiding, Tyler's father has accepted a job that will move his family to another part of he country. Mackenzie is about to lose the best thing that ever happened to her. She has a decision to make...let him go or take control and go after what she wants for once.
“Tyler’s not like other boys. There’s a something more to him than just good looks. He cares.”
I'm gonna stop here because I don't want to give anything away. Just know that the most heartbreaking part of this story has yet to occur. And when you read it, it's going to have you close to tears screaming NO! This book is about a young woman regaining control of her life and finding love and forgiveness along the way. There is no cliff hanger and Mackenzie does get her HEA. I'd rate this book at 4-4.5 Stars!
August 5, 2013
****e-ARC was provided by author for the blog tour in exchange for my honest thoughts and review.
Even though the evidence of malnutrition shows on my body, I feel so out of control that I am powerless to stop it.
Sanctuary of Mine by S. Pratt was an overwhelming read. I've read books about human trafficking, prostitution, and all those other tough topics people are uncomfortable talking, reading, or even discussing. But I have never read a book like Sanctuary of Mine that really lets the reader inside the mind of an anorexic or bulimic. S. Pratt really lets the reader see, experience, and understand a person who is suffering from an eating disorder.
I punish myself. I starve myself. I torture myself, mentally and physically.
In the beginning of Sanctuary of Mine we learn right away that Mackenzie is suffering from an eating disorder. Like I said before when I read Sanctuary of Mine I was overwhelmed with all of Mackenzie's suffering. Not only is she suffering from an eating disorder, but her parents are divorced and can't stand to be in the same room. Her parents divorce is what leads to her eating disorder. I've read about these disease before (did a research paper on it in High School), and this is just a very horrible disease. I can not even imagine what it would be like to suffer from any type of eating disorder- in second thought I can imagine now after reading Sanctuary of Mine. From the beginning Mackenzie is fragile, puts ups walls to not let people in her life, and she is fighting her eating disorder by herself. As the story progresses she becomes confident with herself, lets people in her life that support and help her, and she becomes a whole different girl. I rode the emotional roller coaster ride with Mackenzie's character right from the beginning and until the end. It was one of the most overwhelming roller coaster I've ridden.
"I think she'd be worth the fight."
I loved Tyler's character in Sanctuary of mine. I am just going to come out with it, because it was one of the things that kind of bothered me from the book. S. Pratt provides Mackenzie's POV and Tyler's POV. The only problem I had with this, was that Tyler only had a few chapters in his POV. I enjoyed reading from his POV, but I was sort of expecting the usual switch of POV that most authors do (Girls POV, Guys POV, Girls POV, Guys POV, etc...). Now that I got out of the way, let me just say that I loved Tyler. His character is thoughtful, caring, and lovable. I would have not expected this much from a jock in High School, but it is understandable because he suffered a great loss. As the story progresses he does not change, only his physical appearance does ;).
There is something, rather someone inside of me that he's unleashed ...
Mack is the kind of chick that I'd break all the rules for.
Mackenzie's and Tyler's relationship at the beginning of the book is like walking on glass- being super careful not to let anything slip-but at the same time they can not hide their physical attraction towards each other. Tyler knows from the start that Mackenzie has an eating disorder, but he still loves her and feels a strong pull towards her. Mackenzie does not know that Tyler knows that she has an eating disorder. So both of them are careful not to let anything slip that might ruin the progress of developing a relationship. But there is something huge that happened in Tyler's life that Mackenzie can not find out about, or else all will come down hill. The one thing I love about their relationship is, the support they both show towards each other. Now, once they both go their separate ways (won't tell you why) they still think about each other. I love the way S. Pratt made time go by before they reunite again :D!
Learning to love, learning to let go. Sometimes they are life's most valuable lessons.
Just when Mackenzie and Tyler have coped with so much- dealing with her eating disorder and the years apart from each other- S. Pratt throws us another heartbreaking event! This time I seriously cried my eyes out. Right from when the event happens I knew that everything was going to break down. I felt all of Mackenzie's pain again, and I cried with her throughout the whole thing. I am telling you this was such an overwhelming read for me.
I'm ready to live my life to the fullest. I want Tyler to know that I'm going to grab every single opportunity that is presented to me with both hands and run with it.
Sanctuary of Mine by S. Pratt was a overwhelming emotional roller coaster ride. S. Pratt presents us what is like to suffer from an eating disorder through her main character, Mackenzie. There has not been a book that I've read where I am completely sucked into the mind and the life of a person suffering from an eating disorder. I cried, suffered, loved, laughed, and felt all of these and more emotions through Mackenzie's character and Tyler's character. S. Pratt has gained a new fan of her writing and from her novel Sanctuary of Mine :D!
Even though the evidence of malnutrition shows on my body, I feel so out of control that I am powerless to stop it.
Sanctuary of Mine by S. Pratt was an overwhelming read. I've read books about human trafficking, prostitution, and all those other tough topics people are uncomfortable talking, reading, or even discussing. But I have never read a book like Sanctuary of Mine that really lets the reader inside the mind of an anorexic or bulimic. S. Pratt really lets the reader see, experience, and understand a person who is suffering from an eating disorder.
I punish myself. I starve myself. I torture myself, mentally and physically.
In the beginning of Sanctuary of Mine we learn right away that Mackenzie is suffering from an eating disorder. Like I said before when I read Sanctuary of Mine I was overwhelmed with all of Mackenzie's suffering. Not only is she suffering from an eating disorder, but her parents are divorced and can't stand to be in the same room. Her parents divorce is what leads to her eating disorder. I've read about these disease before (did a research paper on it in High School), and this is just a very horrible disease. I can not even imagine what it would be like to suffer from any type of eating disorder- in second thought I can imagine now after reading Sanctuary of Mine. From the beginning Mackenzie is fragile, puts ups walls to not let people in her life, and she is fighting her eating disorder by herself. As the story progresses she becomes confident with herself, lets people in her life that support and help her, and she becomes a whole different girl. I rode the emotional roller coaster ride with Mackenzie's character right from the beginning and until the end. It was one of the most overwhelming roller coaster I've ridden.
"I think she'd be worth the fight."
I loved Tyler's character in Sanctuary of mine. I am just going to come out with it, because it was one of the things that kind of bothered me from the book. S. Pratt provides Mackenzie's POV and Tyler's POV. The only problem I had with this, was that Tyler only had a few chapters in his POV. I enjoyed reading from his POV, but I was sort of expecting the usual switch of POV that most authors do (Girls POV, Guys POV, Girls POV, Guys POV, etc...). Now that I got out of the way, let me just say that I loved Tyler. His character is thoughtful, caring, and lovable. I would have not expected this much from a jock in High School, but it is understandable because he suffered a great loss. As the story progresses he does not change, only his physical appearance does ;).
There is something, rather someone inside of me that he's unleashed ...
Mack is the kind of chick that I'd break all the rules for.
Mackenzie's and Tyler's relationship at the beginning of the book is like walking on glass- being super careful not to let anything slip-but at the same time they can not hide their physical attraction towards each other. Tyler knows from the start that Mackenzie has an eating disorder, but he still loves her and feels a strong pull towards her. Mackenzie does not know that Tyler knows that she has an eating disorder. So both of them are careful not to let anything slip that might ruin the progress of developing a relationship. But there is something huge that happened in Tyler's life that Mackenzie can not find out about, or else all will come down hill. The one thing I love about their relationship is, the support they both show towards each other. Now, once they both go their separate ways (won't tell you why) they still think about each other. I love the way S. Pratt made time go by before they reunite again :D!
Learning to love, learning to let go. Sometimes they are life's most valuable lessons.
Just when Mackenzie and Tyler have coped with so much- dealing with her eating disorder and the years apart from each other- S. Pratt throws us another heartbreaking event! This time I seriously cried my eyes out. Right from when the event happens I knew that everything was going to break down. I felt all of Mackenzie's pain again, and I cried with her throughout the whole thing. I am telling you this was such an overwhelming read for me.
I'm ready to live my life to the fullest. I want Tyler to know that I'm going to grab every single opportunity that is presented to me with both hands and run with it.
Sanctuary of Mine by S. Pratt was a overwhelming emotional roller coaster ride. S. Pratt presents us what is like to suffer from an eating disorder through her main character, Mackenzie. There has not been a book that I've read where I am completely sucked into the mind and the life of a person suffering from an eating disorder. I cried, suffered, loved, laughed, and felt all of these and more emotions through Mackenzie's character and Tyler's character. S. Pratt has gained a new fan of her writing and from her novel Sanctuary of Mine :D!
July 14, 2013
I don't know where to start with this review, this book has left me so emotionally raw that I'm going to think about it for days.
Shelly Pratt has delved into the world of a heartbreaking disease and she has managed to absolutely crumbled my heart in to 100's Of pieces and then picked those pieces up and put me back together.
There are books written to teach us some thing in life and this book is one for me.
This book is about survival and fighting your way through something so HUGE it just hurts to breathe. When an author pours their heart and soul into a book you feel that essence, I was transfix from page one.
It was probably one of my ugliest but happy cries yet.
Simply amazing Shelly, you took my breath away and showed me that even with pain there can be light at the end.
5 massive stars!
You will not regret reading this book!
Shelly Pratt has delved into the world of a heartbreaking disease and she has managed to absolutely crumbled my heart in to 100's Of pieces and then picked those pieces up and put me back together.
There are books written to teach us some thing in life and this book is one for me.
This book is about survival and fighting your way through something so HUGE it just hurts to breathe. When an author pours their heart and soul into a book you feel that essence, I was transfix from page one.
It was probably one of my ugliest but happy cries yet.
Simply amazing Shelly, you took my breath away and showed me that even with pain there can be light at the end.
5 massive stars!
You will not regret reading this book!
July 21, 2013
Truly loved it.A Story between a boy who had a bulimic sister and fall deeply in love with a girl who is having eating disorder problem
'We're not broken just bent
And we can learn to love again'
'We're not broken just bent
And we can learn to love again'
September 22, 2013
3.5 stars
Sanctuary of Mine is about one teenage girl's struggle for control, one young man's dedication to help someone with love, and how how young romance and need to never let go can conquer all. With her parents divorced, her dad away on constant deployments, and a mother who doesn't listen, MacKenzie Deeks feels she has no control in her life. The only way she can find it is through her body, more precisely with her weight. She is bulimic and anorexic and believes she hides both disorders so well.
But she doesn't. People have noticed with a single look. Her mother. Her new best friend, who comfort eats. The most popular guy in school. They all know—or at least suspect—and they don't know quite what to do.
While Sanctuary of Mine isn't the all gritty, gut-wrenching read I expected it to be, it was a book I enjoyed and that was well worth the time. I could feel Mack's nervousness and self-doubt, as well as her need to just let go. The urge to have some kind of escape while still maintain a sense of control was visceral in her actions and narration. Purging becomes that release and an addiction for her.
Tyler Redding's desire to get to know Mack and help her was also palpable. Though seemingly a rugby jock with an ideal family and home life, he has his own hard experience with eating disorders. He's genuinely caring and nurturing while still being a guy who can think with his pants. Even though I found his infatuation with Mack in the beginning a little much without good reason, it did add to the mystery of how deep his affection truly went and if he simply wanted to be a savior. I adored him more and more with each page, though.
My favorite character has to be Mack's new best and only friend, Levi.
Levi is the geeky, gay friend who accepts Mack with no questions asked. He was there for her, always, and eventually helps her fight herself along with himself. He and his relationship with Mack made me smile, laugh, and get all gooey inside.
I think my only big issue with the book was that I needed to see more of Mack struggling to fight through her disorders. That would have made the whole story more real to me, especially considering the severity of the subject matter. One minor thing: the mushiness between Mack and Tyler ... I wasn't expecting it. I could've done with less, but it did add that teenage angst and desperation to hold on to first loves.
The last third or quarter of the book was fabulous, ratcheting up on the drama, suspense, and real life pain. I teared up, couldn't put the book down even though it was 3am, and ... gah! I can't say or I'll spoil the ending.
Sanctuary of Mine is a lighter story on eating disorders but no less moving, with wonderful characters, young romance that never dies, and a nice HEA. I'd recommend it to mature young adults looking for a serious topic with sweet romance as the highlight.
*Review also posted on the The LUV'NV blog.
Sanctuary of Mine is about one teenage girl's struggle for control, one young man's dedication to help someone with love, and how how young romance and need to never let go can conquer all. With her parents divorced, her dad away on constant deployments, and a mother who doesn't listen, MacKenzie Deeks feels she has no control in her life. The only way she can find it is through her body, more precisely with her weight. She is bulimic and anorexic and believes she hides both disorders so well.
But she doesn't. People have noticed with a single look. Her mother. Her new best friend, who comfort eats. The most popular guy in school. They all know—or at least suspect—and they don't know quite what to do.
While Sanctuary of Mine isn't the all gritty, gut-wrenching read I expected it to be, it was a book I enjoyed and that was well worth the time. I could feel Mack's nervousness and self-doubt, as well as her need to just let go. The urge to have some kind of escape while still maintain a sense of control was visceral in her actions and narration. Purging becomes that release and an addiction for her.
“I look a complete and utter mess, not at all like the pretty girl my dad used to call me. But for some reason, I feel better and in control. It’s like with one simple purge I feel like a weight as been lifted from my shoulders. That feeling is kind of euphoric, which makes doing it kind of addictive.”
Tyler Redding's desire to get to know Mack and help her was also palpable. Though seemingly a rugby jock with an ideal family and home life, he has his own hard experience with eating disorders. He's genuinely caring and nurturing while still being a guy who can think with his pants. Even though I found his infatuation with Mack in the beginning a little much without good reason, it did add to the mystery of how deep his affection truly went and if he simply wanted to be a savior. I adored him more and more with each page, though.
My favorite character has to be Mack's new best and only friend, Levi.
“Funny how two people can have such a different relationship with food. I avoid it, wanting some sort of control when I know other things are beyond it. He seems to like food – too much. It would appear in order to replace his misery he feeds himself to feel some sort of happiness.”
Levi is the geeky, gay friend who accepts Mack with no questions asked. He was there for her, always, and eventually helps her fight herself along with himself. He and his relationship with Mack made me smile, laugh, and get all gooey inside.
I think my only big issue with the book was that I needed to see more of Mack struggling to fight through her disorders. That would have made the whole story more real to me, especially considering the severity of the subject matter. One minor thing: the mushiness between Mack and Tyler ... I wasn't expecting it. I could've done with less, but it did add that teenage angst and desperation to hold on to first loves.
The last third or quarter of the book was fabulous, ratcheting up on the drama, suspense, and real life pain. I teared up, couldn't put the book down even though it was 3am, and ... gah! I can't say or I'll spoil the ending.
Sanctuary of Mine is a lighter story on eating disorders but no less moving, with wonderful characters, young romance that never dies, and a nice HEA. I'd recommend it to mature young adults looking for a serious topic with sweet romance as the highlight.
*Review also posted on the The LUV'NV blog.
August 6, 2013
Review Originally Posted at: Book Freak
Mack the Truck or Mackenzie had her life spiraling down the moment her dad and her mom decided to get a divorce. The thought of not being able to control anything in her life anymore scared the crap out of her. So, she took control of one thing she knew she could - FOOD.
Mack is suffering from both bulimia and anorexia.She tries to cover it up, hide it from the rest of the world and remain invisible as much as possible. Her mother did try to help her, but I don't think it was enough. Control is what she needs in her life, and the disorder is just all about control!
Tyler is the ultimate knight in shining armor. Need help? He'll come running. Who won't fall in love with him? He's a school jock, sits with the popular kids, hot and has brains too. But he too has his own suffering he had been keeping inside. His sister died of heart failure because of the same eating disorder, and one look at Mack, he knew, deep down in his gut that this girl is going through the same phase. One thing I love about this guy (besides all those near-perfect qualities) is his determination. He won't stop until he gets what he wants. This time, he wants Mack.
Stand up to a bully and earn yourself a friend - this was what happened when Mack bumped in with Levi. She stood up to the bullies in school. Instantly, she gained herself a friend, a supporter and a cheerleader. After Tyler, Levi was the next best thing that has happened to her. He was honest enough to slap some sense into her.
I like how the story progressed. I may find Mack selfish at times, thinking about herself, and not the people who love her, and who wanted nothing but the best for her. Yet, with Tyler ever present and not giving up, everything is just perfect. When I reached the second part - the letters, I think it was a smart move on Ms. Pratt because part didn't allow the story to drag. They may be just letters, but it allowed readers to witness how Mack and Tyler's love blossom, mature even from a distance. It also offer a glimpse on how their characters have develop and changed through time.
The moment the cover was revealed and I read the blurb - I told myself: I HAVE TO READ THAT BOOK!
When I finally did - it had me speechless. I loved it to the core. From the first page, down to the very last. Sanctuary of Mine is not just a book with a beautiful cover nor a love story that will bring extra beats to your heart, but it is an inspiration, something to give hope to people (most especially teen girls) who are fighting the disorder and those who are silently crying for help. She has truly a ways with words that will touch not just your heart, but your soul as well. This book was my first from S. Pratt, and certainly won't be the last!
*ARC Copy was given in exchange for an honest review.
Mack the Truck or Mackenzie had her life spiraling down the moment her dad and her mom decided to get a divorce. The thought of not being able to control anything in her life anymore scared the crap out of her. So, she took control of one thing she knew she could - FOOD.
I may not be able to control who loves me and who likes me. Who stays and who goes but one thing is for certain. I can control this.
Mack is suffering from both bulimia and anorexia.She tries to cover it up, hide it from the rest of the world and remain invisible as much as possible. Her mother did try to help her, but I don't think it was enough. Control is what she needs in her life, and the disorder is just all about control!
Instead of thinking that this has to be the end, I'm going to hold out. I believe she could very well be the one. And when you find the one that you feel in your bones you're meant to be with,you hold on to that feelings like your life depends on it.
Tyler is the ultimate knight in shining armor. Need help? He'll come running. Who won't fall in love with him? He's a school jock, sits with the popular kids, hot and has brains too. But he too has his own suffering he had been keeping inside. His sister died of heart failure because of the same eating disorder, and one look at Mack, he knew, deep down in his gut that this girl is going through the same phase. One thing I love about this guy (besides all those near-perfect qualities) is his determination. He won't stop until he gets what he wants. This time, he wants Mack.
But now I need to help someone else. Mackenzie Deeks may not what friends but I'm determined to be hers, whether she likes it or not.
I want her and her baggage.
Stand up to a bully and earn yourself a friend - this was what happened when Mack bumped in with Levi. She stood up to the bullies in school. Instantly, she gained herself a friend, a supporter and a cheerleader. After Tyler, Levi was the next best thing that has happened to her. He was honest enough to slap some sense into her.
"I feel like you're my destiny, you're my everything and I think I have to thank her for that. Don't ever leave me, okay? 'Cause if you do, I think you might just take a bit of my soul with you."
I like how the story progressed. I may find Mack selfish at times, thinking about herself, and not the people who love her, and who wanted nothing but the best for her. Yet, with Tyler ever present and not giving up, everything is just perfect. When I reached the second part - the letters, I think it was a smart move on Ms. Pratt because part didn't allow the story to drag. They may be just letters, but it allowed readers to witness how Mack and Tyler's love blossom, mature even from a distance. It also offer a glimpse on how their characters have develop and changed through time.
The moment the cover was revealed and I read the blurb - I told myself: I HAVE TO READ THAT BOOK!
When I finally did - it had me speechless. I loved it to the core. From the first page, down to the very last. Sanctuary of Mine is not just a book with a beautiful cover nor a love story that will bring extra beats to your heart, but it is an inspiration, something to give hope to people (most especially teen girls) who are fighting the disorder and those who are silently crying for help. She has truly a ways with words that will touch not just your heart, but your soul as well. This book was my first from S. Pratt, and certainly won't be the last!
*ARC Copy was given in exchange for an honest review.
November 29, 2013
5+ Stars
Sanctuary of Mine was one of the most powerful, descriptive and emotional books I’ve ever read. My eye’s leaked continuously for the first half of the book, but don’t let this deter you from reading the book. The ending will make it so worthwhile!
The book details the struggles of Mackenzie (Mack) Deeks with a horrible eating disorder she has suffered since her parents divorced at age 13. Her father is her hero and his absence is more than she can handle. On top of that she overhears an argument with her parents where her mother makes a thoughtless statement wishing Mackenzie had never been born. The one thing that she can control is her eating and purging and it is her sanctuary.
I have never read such a descriptive story before. The details of her eating disorder are incredibly graphic, down to the taste, the feel, the sound. The author makes a statement that “thin downy hairs cover my abdomen. I know it is a side effect of not eating enough..”. These are things that I never knew about the disease and it made it so much more powerful. The emotions she suffers, the lengths she goes to, to hide the disease from her mother, I felt like I was inside the story. So many times you read a book and feel like an outsider, like you can’t connect with the character. The writing in this book took me to a completely different level where I was in the story, I felt like I was Mackenzie Deeks.
The book is broken up into 3 parts – part 1 takes place in high school, part 2 are letters written between Mack and Tyler, when they are separated for a year and a half, and part 3 takes places after high school when they are finally reunited.
In part 1, Mackenzie is in the 11th grade and a loner. She has never had any friends and likes it that way. She meets a new student Levi one day when he is bullied by 2 of the school jocks. They become inseparable and Levi becomes one of her closest friends and confidants throughout her life. Tyler Redding, a 12th grader, and the hottest boy in school, actually comes to Levi and Mackenzie’s aid and we find out that he has been watching her for some time. He knows about her struggles because his sister Kelly suffered from the same disease. He couldn’t save Kelly but he wants to save Mackenzie. The build of the relationship between Mack and Tyler is slow, realistic and beautiful. Things seem to be going well between the two, but take a turn for the worse when Mack discovers the truth about Kelly and feels that she is Tyler’s “pet project”. At the same time she cuts herself off from Tyler, he finds out that his father has accepted a job in another country and he is forced to move.
In part 2, Mackenzie and Tyler rebuild their relationship through a series of letters spanning a year and a half. I loved this part because we not only see how Mack is finally battling her disease and repairing the relationship with her mother, but we see how the two are falling in love with each other even though they are so far apart.
In part 3, Tyler returns to Australia and they are now faced with the reality of physically being together and dealing with the day to day struggles of University, jobs and just life in general. A horrific tragedy towards the end of the book almost knocks Mack back 10 steps in her recovery, but with the love and support of Tyler, they will find their HEA.
I had no idea what to expect when reading this story. I know Shelly Pratt but I have never read a book by her before. After this experience, there is no doubt that I will be adding all her books to my tbr. I’m a slow reader and I literally could not put this down, reading it in less than 24 hours. All readers should give this book a chance and I sincerely hope they have the experience that I had when reading it.
An ARC was kindly provided by the Author for an honest review.
Review posted at Love Between the Sheets
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Sanctuary of Mine was one of the most powerful, descriptive and emotional books I’ve ever read. My eye’s leaked continuously for the first half of the book, but don’t let this deter you from reading the book. The ending will make it so worthwhile!
The book details the struggles of Mackenzie (Mack) Deeks with a horrible eating disorder she has suffered since her parents divorced at age 13. Her father is her hero and his absence is more than she can handle. On top of that she overhears an argument with her parents where her mother makes a thoughtless statement wishing Mackenzie had never been born. The one thing that she can control is her eating and purging and it is her sanctuary.
I have never read such a descriptive story before. The details of her eating disorder are incredibly graphic, down to the taste, the feel, the sound. The author makes a statement that “thin downy hairs cover my abdomen. I know it is a side effect of not eating enough..”. These are things that I never knew about the disease and it made it so much more powerful. The emotions she suffers, the lengths she goes to, to hide the disease from her mother, I felt like I was inside the story. So many times you read a book and feel like an outsider, like you can’t connect with the character. The writing in this book took me to a completely different level where I was in the story, I felt like I was Mackenzie Deeks.
The book is broken up into 3 parts – part 1 takes place in high school, part 2 are letters written between Mack and Tyler, when they are separated for a year and a half, and part 3 takes places after high school when they are finally reunited.
In part 1, Mackenzie is in the 11th grade and a loner. She has never had any friends and likes it that way. She meets a new student Levi one day when he is bullied by 2 of the school jocks. They become inseparable and Levi becomes one of her closest friends and confidants throughout her life. Tyler Redding, a 12th grader, and the hottest boy in school, actually comes to Levi and Mackenzie’s aid and we find out that he has been watching her for some time. He knows about her struggles because his sister Kelly suffered from the same disease. He couldn’t save Kelly but he wants to save Mackenzie. The build of the relationship between Mack and Tyler is slow, realistic and beautiful. Things seem to be going well between the two, but take a turn for the worse when Mack discovers the truth about Kelly and feels that she is Tyler’s “pet project”. At the same time she cuts herself off from Tyler, he finds out that his father has accepted a job in another country and he is forced to move.
In part 2, Mackenzie and Tyler rebuild their relationship through a series of letters spanning a year and a half. I loved this part because we not only see how Mack is finally battling her disease and repairing the relationship with her mother, but we see how the two are falling in love with each other even though they are so far apart.
In part 3, Tyler returns to Australia and they are now faced with the reality of physically being together and dealing with the day to day struggles of University, jobs and just life in general. A horrific tragedy towards the end of the book almost knocks Mack back 10 steps in her recovery, but with the love and support of Tyler, they will find their HEA.
I had no idea what to expect when reading this story. I know Shelly Pratt but I have never read a book by her before. After this experience, there is no doubt that I will be adding all her books to my tbr. I’m a slow reader and I literally could not put this down, reading it in less than 24 hours. All readers should give this book a chance and I sincerely hope they have the experience that I had when reading it.
An ARC was kindly provided by the Author for an honest review.
Review posted at Love Between the Sheets
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July 15, 2013
“Too much has passed between us to just let her slip through my fingers. I need her, I want her, and she’s woven herself so intricately into my heart that without her I’m finding it hard to breathe.”
This has got to be the easiest review I ever wrote. Why, you ask? Because not only I LOVED the book but I can relate to it. While writing the review might be easy, reading the book was not; at least not some parts. It hit too close to home, making me relieve some very painful memories that were long forgotten.
This story is real and raw and talks about things that most of us don’t feel comfortable talking about. Things that I’ve experienced and many young girls out there are experiencing right this moment. Mackenzie Deeks is struggling to get over her parents’ divorce the best way she can and in the process she develops an eating disorder. Moving to a new town and starting at a new school, does not help either. She hides from the world the best she can.
Tyler Redding feels a pull towards Mackenzie and, from experience, he knows that she needs help. When he starts showing his interest, Mackenzie is having a hard time believing that someone like him would even know her name. Tyler is every young girl’s dream: handsome, hardworking, romantic, caring, and patient. Together they embark on a journey of ups and downs but love has a way to conquer all.
I finished the story in less than a day and I've cried some ugly tears. BUT this has to be one of THE BEST books I’ve read this year, and I’ve read some really good ones. It is original, very well written, perfect pace, and very realistic. I hope every woman (young and not so young) has the chance to read this story.
“There’s something very peaceful about being in love. It can make you light as a feather; so blissfully unaware of anything else of importance. It can make you feel anger, rage, jealousy, and lust all in one sentence.”
This has got to be the easiest review I ever wrote. Why, you ask? Because not only I LOVED the book but I can relate to it. While writing the review might be easy, reading the book was not; at least not some parts. It hit too close to home, making me relieve some very painful memories that were long forgotten.
This story is real and raw and talks about things that most of us don’t feel comfortable talking about. Things that I’ve experienced and many young girls out there are experiencing right this moment. Mackenzie Deeks is struggling to get over her parents’ divorce the best way she can and in the process she develops an eating disorder. Moving to a new town and starting at a new school, does not help either. She hides from the world the best she can.
Tyler Redding feels a pull towards Mackenzie and, from experience, he knows that she needs help. When he starts showing his interest, Mackenzie is having a hard time believing that someone like him would even know her name. Tyler is every young girl’s dream: handsome, hardworking, romantic, caring, and patient. Together they embark on a journey of ups and downs but love has a way to conquer all.
I finished the story in less than a day and I've cried some ugly tears. BUT this has to be one of THE BEST books I’ve read this year, and I’ve read some really good ones. It is original, very well written, perfect pace, and very realistic. I hope every woman (young and not so young) has the chance to read this story.
“There’s something very peaceful about being in love. It can make you light as a feather; so blissfully unaware of anything else of importance. It can make you feel anger, rage, jealousy, and lust all in one sentence.”
November 29, 2013
* I received this Arc in exchange for my honest opinion. *
This is a story that needed to be told. It's one that should be placed in every teenager's hand for awareness sake.
This book was so real, it was eerie. The thoughts and the behavior of Mackenzie as she struggled with her eating disorder were so on point, it took my breath away. Many people know about eating disorders yet, the complexity of this disease is still so misunderstood. It clicks on in your brain way before you realize there was ever that dark desperate switch to click on. If you're lucky, someday it will finally click off. It may be that you find the strength to click it off yourself or somebody has helped you to click it off. So many never live to see the day that that happens.
Mackenzie was lucky. Mackenzie had the strength in herself and the love of Tyler to help her get back to her.
Tyler. What an AMAZING character he was! His maturity level was above and beyond that of a normal senior in high school. Tyler, unlike most seniors, faced a tragedy that forced him to grow up a lot quicker. Other teens may have lashed out but not him. Tyler put his energy into something so positive it made me feel proud of him, of any kid with this type of heart, really. I know there are many "Tylers" out there in the world and it just made my heart so happy to see a spotlight on this type of character. He's an inspiration.
It is very difficult to write a review for this book without giving away spoilers. I'm not a reviewer that likes to do that. So, in saying that . . . I really give this book 4.5 stars. It was wonderfully written. I had an instant connection with the characters and I would most definitely recommend that you read this book whether it's a topic that hits home with you or not.
Well done, Shelly Pratt, well done!
This is a story that needed to be told. It's one that should be placed in every teenager's hand for awareness sake.
This book was so real, it was eerie. The thoughts and the behavior of Mackenzie as she struggled with her eating disorder were so on point, it took my breath away. Many people know about eating disorders yet, the complexity of this disease is still so misunderstood. It clicks on in your brain way before you realize there was ever that dark desperate switch to click on. If you're lucky, someday it will finally click off. It may be that you find the strength to click it off yourself or somebody has helped you to click it off. So many never live to see the day that that happens.
Mackenzie was lucky. Mackenzie had the strength in herself and the love of Tyler to help her get back to her.
Tyler. What an AMAZING character he was! His maturity level was above and beyond that of a normal senior in high school. Tyler, unlike most seniors, faced a tragedy that forced him to grow up a lot quicker. Other teens may have lashed out but not him. Tyler put his energy into something so positive it made me feel proud of him, of any kid with this type of heart, really. I know there are many "Tylers" out there in the world and it just made my heart so happy to see a spotlight on this type of character. He's an inspiration.
It is very difficult to write a review for this book without giving away spoilers. I'm not a reviewer that likes to do that. So, in saying that . . . I really give this book 4.5 stars. It was wonderfully written. I had an instant connection with the characters and I would most definitely recommend that you read this book whether it's a topic that hits home with you or not.
Well done, Shelly Pratt, well done!
October 19, 2013
4 1/2 Stars!!!
“Help, I have done it again
I have been here many times before
Hurt myself again today
And the worst part is there's no one else to blame
Be my friend
Hold me, wrap me up
Unfold me
I am small and needy
Warm me up
And breathe me”
Breath Me by Sia
Wow!!! What an emotional read!!! I could not put this one down.
Mackenzie Deeks is falling apart. She is losing battling with an eating disorder that has spiraled out of control. The weight of her parents’ divorce has broken her. The only way she feels in control is to succumb to starving herself.
Tyler Redding is the popular football star at school. He is immediately taken by Mackenzie and completely drawn to her. They begin a relationship and it’s magical. They are both what the other needs.
Tyler is so HOT!!! With his pacific blue eyes and rockin body, I fell in love completely.
“I’m finding it hard just to breathe right now. We are all alone in the side street, shaded from the glaring sun by the apartment buildings. The world seems to continue to move on at its rapid pace behind us, and yet here, time is frozen.”
I am frozen. He is just that swoonworthy.
They are separated for a bit, and write letters back and forth. The letters. OMG!!! I want a letter from him!!
“One think you can always be sure of, Mack, is that you will always floor me—just like a Mack truck.”
A horrible event ruins their plans. Will Tyler be able to break through Mackenzie’s walls and save her from herself? You have to read for yourself to find out.
This book moved me. S. Pratt outdid herself and sucked me in. Amazing story, beautiful writing, and captivating characters. Loved it!!!
“Help, I have done it again
I have been here many times before
Hurt myself again today
And the worst part is there's no one else to blame
Be my friend
Hold me, wrap me up
Unfold me
I am small and needy
Warm me up
And breathe me”
Breath Me by Sia
Wow!!! What an emotional read!!! I could not put this one down.
Mackenzie Deeks is falling apart. She is losing battling with an eating disorder that has spiraled out of control. The weight of her parents’ divorce has broken her. The only way she feels in control is to succumb to starving herself.
Tyler Redding is the popular football star at school. He is immediately taken by Mackenzie and completely drawn to her. They begin a relationship and it’s magical. They are both what the other needs.
Tyler is so HOT!!! With his pacific blue eyes and rockin body, I fell in love completely.
“I’m finding it hard just to breathe right now. We are all alone in the side street, shaded from the glaring sun by the apartment buildings. The world seems to continue to move on at its rapid pace behind us, and yet here, time is frozen.”
I am frozen. He is just that swoonworthy.
They are separated for a bit, and write letters back and forth. The letters. OMG!!! I want a letter from him!!
“One think you can always be sure of, Mack, is that you will always floor me—just like a Mack truck.”
A horrible event ruins their plans. Will Tyler be able to break through Mackenzie’s walls and save her from herself? You have to read for yourself to find out.
This book moved me. S. Pratt outdid herself and sucked me in. Amazing story, beautiful writing, and captivating characters. Loved it!!!
August 29, 2013
OMG – words fail me this book is so amazing!
This book is like none other I’ve read. It is a totally different romance story, dealing with a very different and tough subject.
This is a story of a young girl who was traumatised by something she overheard and punishes herself by not eating. This story explains in detail how she copes with this and why she does it to herself and how difficult it is for her to lead a “normal” life, how she deals with making friends and having a boyfriend. It is fantastic to read a book about these issues that so many people suffer with.
I think the subject was handled extremely well and it gave the reader an amazing insight into a taboo subject. Be prepared to have a tissue handy when reaching the end of the book!
S Pratts style of writing is full of emotion and written in a way that I could easily be a fly on the wall in the story and see everything playing out. It was so realistic!
She handled the subject with ease and didn’t soften the blow or ease us in gently. I am very interested in reading more of S Pratt’s book as I believe that she puts a piece of her heart and her soul into each book.
I felt like I was reading a Colleen Hoover book as S Pratt’s style is very similar.
I give this book 5 stars only because that is the most, but would give 10 if I could.
Enjoy!
July 22, 2013
Ohhhhhhh Where to start??????? I could have highlighted most of the book! I have read some heavy hitters/ expensive books.....and I'm proud to say this one smoked em!!!! Way to go Shelly! Thank you Alina for pointing me in her direction. It covers every emotion too many times to count. I literally had to count sheep to get this off my mind till my eyes opened bright and early to go at it again. Thank you, Thank you for allowing me to feel and be moved so much. Every part was brilliant, smooth transitions(although bumpy ride). And the characters ALL OF THEM! It's one thing to cross fingers and toes wishing and willing for certain things to happen... And when they do..,Wow! Just Wow. Even better than I imagined it possibly could be. I'm gonna go ahead and say it..BEST THIS YEAR. Including the likes if c. Hoover, S day, t. Fisher A. Glides, and many others. Now I need to reread, this time without holding my breath.
December 2, 2013
Tyler & Mackenzie start off in high school which for Mackenzie is a bit rough. Not only is she covering up her eating disorder but she has to deal with all the crap that comes with being a teenager. Tyler takes his sweet time getting close with Mackenzie, almost painfully slow. When they finally have their first date it gets hot and heavy then blows up that fast. I saw the blow up coming and so did Tyler, he just didn't do much to prevent it if you ask me. Tyler & Mackenzie are able to patch things up but it's not the ideal situation. When they finally get things truly on the right track there are outside sources that threaten their relationship at every turn. Then the tragedy that no one saw coming happens and could just be the thing that tears these two apart. Some hot steamy sex -nothing to detailed or raunchy.
Fabulous Ending.
Fabulous Ending.
October 29, 2013
I absolutely loved Ruined and Ruining Angel by S. Pratt. I think she's a phenomenal writer but this book just didn't work for me.
It felt like way too much was thrown out there making for a disconnected story line. The anorexia/bulimia story line ess good and it was working. But then Tyler moves away and then she's cured. And it's almost like her disease isn't even a component of the story anymore. Tyler's football career and the jealousy over the other girls felt like it belonged in another story all together. Then the weirdo from her job and then her family issues, it just felt like throwing everything at the wall and waiting to see what stuck.
Again, love this author. Love her writing. Disliked this book.
It felt like way too much was thrown out there making for a disconnected story line. The anorexia/bulimia story line ess good and it was working. But then Tyler moves away and then she's cured. And it's almost like her disease isn't even a component of the story anymore. Tyler's football career and the jealousy over the other girls felt like it belonged in another story all together. Then the weirdo from her job and then her family issues, it just felt like throwing everything at the wall and waiting to see what stuck.
Again, love this author. Love her writing. Disliked this book.
Read
November 8, 2013I did not like this book in the least.
Sanctuary of Mine deals with eating disorders and what kind of effects they can cause. Mackenzie has been bulimia and anorexic ever since her parents divorced. She tortures herself and binge eats and at other times starves herself.
Unfortunately I didn't feel an emotions while reading this. I felt like the characters were bland and I just didn't feel like it touched on the subject matter very well.
This didn't work for me.
Sanctuary of Mine deals with eating disorders and what kind of effects they can cause. Mackenzie has been bulimia and anorexic ever since her parents divorced. She tortures herself and binge eats and at other times starves herself.
Unfortunately I didn't feel an emotions while reading this. I felt like the characters were bland and I just didn't feel like it touched on the subject matter very well.
This didn't work for me.
September 29, 2013
difficult subject matter...I didn't know what to expect when I started reading. When I realized Mac's issue, my heart fluttered. As I neared the end...I teared up. I just didn't know if she would revert back to self harm. Thought provoking.
January 5, 2014
I think this is my first book that deals with any kind of eating disorder, I liked it and I liked how it all played out and how it gave me a small glimpse of how the body and the mind struggle.
August 21, 2013
sad and heartbreaking but Tyler is an amazing book boyfriend.
September 2, 2015
Not for me.
May 17, 2018
yepp i am addicted to college/high school romance still!
cute reading ( i fucking love jocks as well tho)
cute reading ( i fucking love jocks as well tho)
December 2, 2013
Sanctuary of Mine by S. Pratt
Series: Standalone
Genre: Contemporary Romance
Age Group: New Adult
Release Date: July 13th 2013
Print Length: 264 pages
Overall Rating: 5 STARS
Review:
Mackenzie Deeks is a girl that keeps to herself and lets no one in. She likes it this way, so no one finds out her secrets → that she is anorexic and bulimic. As she withers away more everyday her mother knows something is wrong but never pushes her. Her parents are divorced and she blames her mother for it all. The only thing that Mackenzie feels she can control in her life is her purging.
I may not be able to control who loves me and who likes me. Who stays and who goes. But one thing is for certain. I can control this.
After moving and starting a new school Mackenzie keeps her head down and tries to blend into the crowd to go unnoticed. Until one day she sees a boy getting bullied and she stands up for him. Levi and her become fast friends. He understands her because he also has an eating disorder but in his case he eats to much. So they have a unspoken agreement to never talk about what and how much they eat.
Tyler Redding is the it boy is school. He play lacrosse and seems to have it all. No one would know that Tyler has watched Mackenzie since the day she started school. He stands out of the crowd to him instead of blending in, and he wants nothing more than Mackenzie. He wants all of her. He also wants to help save her. Tyler knows by watching Mackenzie exactly what she is doing to herself. He had an older sister that put herself through the same thing until she passed way from her eating disorder.
I think she’d be worth the fight.
Tyler and his family have to move due to his fathers job, but over the year and a half that he is gone Mackenzie and him keep a long distance relationship going. Mackenzie and Levi both have a strong hold on their eating disorders and help one another. When Tyler gets drafted to play professional lacrosse he moves back to his hometown and back into Mackenzie’s life. Their relationship is able to fully blossom, they are truly in love. But with Tyler moving home they face so many unknowns and Mackenzie begins to wonder if they can handle it all.
Is Tyler and Mackenzie’s relationship able to handle him finally returning home? Can Mackenzie handle all the attention that Tyler gets now that he plays a pro-sport? Or will their love conquer it all? Will Mackenzie be able to keep her disorder under control or will it resurface?
I love how S. Pratt tackles all the hard to handle subjects in her books. I have previously read her Ruined and Ruining Angel and if you haven’t read those I highly recommend that you do. But Sanctuary Of Mine touches on so many emotional topics: divorce, death, self loathing, eating disorders, and, how to over come them all. My emotions were all over the place, but more than anything I felt what the characters felt.
I couldn’t help but fall in love with them all.
Mackenzie learns how to love herself and let people in to love her.
Levi is such an outstanding friend and always there for Mackenzie no matter what she needs.
Tyler he never gave up on Mackenzie, he truly fought to help and save her, and in the process they fell in love. Like Tyler says,
She floors me like an elephant tripping in high heels.
I would recommend this book to anyone that likes a good mix between mature YA and NA books. It was such a great read!
~Christina The Book Bitch~
Format: Kindle DRC
Source: via tour host
Review Date: November 27th 2013
Series: Standalone
Genre: Contemporary Romance
Age Group: New Adult
Release Date: July 13th 2013
Print Length: 264 pages
Overall Rating: 5 STARS
Review:
Mackenzie Deeks is a girl that keeps to herself and lets no one in. She likes it this way, so no one finds out her secrets → that she is anorexic and bulimic. As she withers away more everyday her mother knows something is wrong but never pushes her. Her parents are divorced and she blames her mother for it all. The only thing that Mackenzie feels she can control in her life is her purging.
I may not be able to control who loves me and who likes me. Who stays and who goes. But one thing is for certain. I can control this.
After moving and starting a new school Mackenzie keeps her head down and tries to blend into the crowd to go unnoticed. Until one day she sees a boy getting bullied and she stands up for him. Levi and her become fast friends. He understands her because he also has an eating disorder but in his case he eats to much. So they have a unspoken agreement to never talk about what and how much they eat.
Tyler Redding is the it boy is school. He play lacrosse and seems to have it all. No one would know that Tyler has watched Mackenzie since the day she started school. He stands out of the crowd to him instead of blending in, and he wants nothing more than Mackenzie. He wants all of her. He also wants to help save her. Tyler knows by watching Mackenzie exactly what she is doing to herself. He had an older sister that put herself through the same thing until she passed way from her eating disorder.
I think she’d be worth the fight.
Tyler and his family have to move due to his fathers job, but over the year and a half that he is gone Mackenzie and him keep a long distance relationship going. Mackenzie and Levi both have a strong hold on their eating disorders and help one another. When Tyler gets drafted to play professional lacrosse he moves back to his hometown and back into Mackenzie’s life. Their relationship is able to fully blossom, they are truly in love. But with Tyler moving home they face so many unknowns and Mackenzie begins to wonder if they can handle it all.
Is Tyler and Mackenzie’s relationship able to handle him finally returning home? Can Mackenzie handle all the attention that Tyler gets now that he plays a pro-sport? Or will their love conquer it all? Will Mackenzie be able to keep her disorder under control or will it resurface?
I love how S. Pratt tackles all the hard to handle subjects in her books. I have previously read her Ruined and Ruining Angel and if you haven’t read those I highly recommend that you do. But Sanctuary Of Mine touches on so many emotional topics: divorce, death, self loathing, eating disorders, and, how to over come them all. My emotions were all over the place, but more than anything I felt what the characters felt.
I couldn’t help but fall in love with them all.
Mackenzie learns how to love herself and let people in to love her.
Levi is such an outstanding friend and always there for Mackenzie no matter what she needs.
Tyler he never gave up on Mackenzie, he truly fought to help and save her, and in the process they fell in love. Like Tyler says,
She floors me like an elephant tripping in high heels.
I would recommend this book to anyone that likes a good mix between mature YA and NA books. It was such a great read!
~Christina The Book Bitch~
Format: Kindle DRC
Source: via tour host
Review Date: November 27th 2013
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