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Entwined Hearts #2

Love Resisted

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Sophie Rawlings has been the party girl for years. Drowning herself in everything but the one man she truly loves. She’s pushed her feelings deep down, knowing he doesn’t return them. The only other man to ever make her feel has suddenly become part of her self-appointed family and she’s not sure where that leaves her. Having been attacked recently, she’s sworn off guys for good.

So what will she do when she suddenly becomes the centre of attention?

What’s worse, is that not all attention is good. Sometimes the wrong attention can be life-altering…sometimes the wrong attention can extinguish the life you lead in the blink of an eye.

Kindle Edition

First published June 22, 2015

3 people are currently reading
127 people want to read

About the author

Maria Macdonald

31 books372 followers
Maria Macdonald is an author who writes sometimes, but mostly procrastinates.

She's a serial Netflix watcher, an avid reader (often meaning she burns the dinner) and occasionally she'll throw a book out to her readers. She also likes tea and chocolate!

She writes Paranormal YA, romantic suspense, Coming of Age, MM, New Adult & contemporary romance.

Originally from London, she now lives in South West England.


You can catch up with her at - https://www.facebook.com/authormariam...

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Displaying 1 - 30 of 57 reviews
Profile Image for Karen Frances.
Author 30 books956 followers
June 6, 2015
Where do I start? I really enjoyed the first book in the series, and was really looking forward to this. So when I was given a ARC I was over- joyed.
This book had everything the first had and a whole lot more. I read this book in a few hours. I couldn't put it down. The story continues with Soph and Saul but has all the characters from the first as well.The story line was original, there was twists and turns in the plot, I didn't see coming. There was happiness, sadness, anxiety, shock and tears. All of which drew me further into the story.
I have to say this was much better than the first and I loved that, I now can't wait to see what happens in book 3 with Dane he has to be my favourite character.

Well done Maria
Profile Image for Analia Almonte.
488 reviews12 followers
December 24, 2015
"An ARC was provided for an honest review."


Love Resisted is the second book in the Entwined Heart Series from the story of Sophie!! By author Maria Macdonald.
This story captivate me from the beginning to end. Sophie you are my hero, brave girl! I love the debut novel Love Reflection but this part ahhhh is in my body and soul! It has everything, an emotional roller coaster but in the right way. Maria you brings the story of a real family and I'm so honored to be one of the person you choose for an arc. So much love, laughter and cried all together. I love so much more all the characters, because they seem so good together and I love that, but pleaseeeeee tell Dane hi is mine forever!!!

This was a perfect written and I really really love and liked this book from the beginning to end and I want you the best of success in every single thing!!! Hands down AGAIN!! Well deserved!! If in Love Reflection you rock in Love Resisted you nailed Girl!! And I know in Love Renewed you will BOOMMMM!! I know!!! Love love love!!! I wish I could give you more than 5 ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Profile Image for Amo Thomson.
617 reviews
June 22, 2015
Wow !! Defo a 5*****
What an amazing follow up.
I got so engrossed in the whole book not just Saul & Soph (who were literally at a point of no return and thank god that got sorted out)

Every character in this book had a massive part to play and they played immensely !!
Yes there as a story to be told for Saul & Soph but Maria keeps everyone involved and that's keeps it so interesting & you cannot help but love the bonds they all have I love them (their real people. Right ?)

Maria you made me laugh omg I had actual tears from some of the one liners they were amazing. I also cried and broke a little but like you do little pieces start coming back together.... There will be a book 3 for this and going on what happened in this story I literally cannot wait for this to conclude.. You have me hooked !!
I didn't think I could love them anymore !!
You aced it !

#teamdane
Profile Image for Emma White.
252 reviews6 followers
June 27, 2015
Wow what can I say, I was gifted a copy for an honest review, Well honestly I loved it so much.
The story of Soph and Saul had me in Love Reflection wanting more before I even started Love Resisted, So it didn't dissapoint in any way, the secrets they have never told start to come out and there a some turn of events I never saw coming! I will be holding my breath when the next book comes out with more of Dane's story.... I'm sure there is more to him they we know right now.
Well done on your second book Maria it was wonderful to be able to read it.
Reviewed for Jo&Isalovesbooks Blog
Profile Image for Johnaka- Amity Book Blog.
1,158 reviews16 followers
June 6, 2015
*swoon* I love Saul. Him and Sophie are perfect for each other. I loved the way they fit together and that when they finally pulled there heads out of there a $$'s everything just fell into place. Saul accepted his brother Dane, after Dane explained his and Sophie's relationship. I'm trying my hardest not to give too much of this book away, so I'll stop now. But I will say I cannot wait for Danes book. I love a sheep in wolf's clothing...

**I was given an ARC in exchange for a fair and honest review**
Profile Image for Anna.
665 reviews1 follower
July 1, 2015
Loved this story and this group of friends/family who have been through so much. Soph's story is heartbreaking. And I love that I still got to see what is going on with Pea and Con. Can not wait for the next book in this series!
Profile Image for Cranky - The Book Curmudgeon.
2,091 reviews154 followers
February 1, 2016
***** 5 Cranky Stars *****



Holy. Wow. Maria has struck again! This time around, as the plot thickens, we delve into the world of Saul and Soph - two people who were undeniably meant for one another but circumstance and a hard headed man prevented them from achieving their HEA. Maria certainly pulled extra hard on my heartstrings for this book!



Soph was the fun and quirky character from Love Reflection that made you want her as your best friend. Even after her attack there was a side to her that made you know she was a tough survivor. But it's not until this book that you see her for who she really is. As Saul amazingly puts it, "...knew you were strong; didn't know you were a warrior." And she is. Overcoming obstacles, an abusive mother, and a psycho hell bent on making her his own, Soph finally leaves home. But keeping secrets is a must, even from her three closest friends so she locked her past away.



Saul was only a small child when he made a promise to always protect Soph and he certainly took that oath to heart. He was a peculiar, yet intriguing, character in Love Reflection as you didn't really get to know him until this book. Deep down inside he knows Soph is his ever-beating heart but outward? He's her savior. For years he's had to quell his own thoughts and feelings so Soph could rely on him and the others to be there. Her true family, stronger than blood. But one swift kick from Dane and his eyes have finally opened.



As the two embark on a journey that rivals the most romantic of movies and books, Soph and Saul have to come to grips with the fact that their reality is about get checked. Secrets are revealed as Soph's past comes back for a fight of all fights and it's up to Saul, Dane, and Con to protect their girls and their family harder than ever before.



Each book Maria writes slowly makes a home in my heart! She makes you fall more and more in love with her characters and makes you wish you were living each heart-clutching and powerful moment right there with the characters. Now I must go read Dane's book because if the preview of his story was any indication, I'm going to need tissue, chocolate, and rumor has it, a big giant fan!



Whew!
Profile Image for Kaylene Osborn.
394 reviews24 followers
June 6, 2015
Second book in the series, a definite hit

Love Resisted is the second book in the Entwined Heart Series from author Maria Macdonald.

This book continues the series with Sophie Rawlings story, but still has all the beloved characters involved from the first book Love Reflection. Sophie is a model, but has become bored and needs more in her life. Her love for a certain male has spanned her life and she knows that he is the one for her. However, life has kept them apart for differing reasons and with everything that is going on in their lives it seems they will never be together. This story shows their love for each other in different ways. Will they ever get together? Will they ever be happy? There is a lot of story going on as well as the main love story and I appreciate nothing more than a love story with some suspense.

I really liked this book, it has everything I love about a book, angst, heartache, suspense, and humour. I laughed out loud and cried, sometimes on the same page. Maria certainly knows how to tell a great story and I know the third book in this series will be just as good and I am looking forward to reading it.

Well done on another excellent book Maria Macdonald, I give this book a much deserved five stars. I wish I could give it more.
Profile Image for Renee at Book Happiness.
1,486 reviews36 followers
June 26, 2015
I received this for an honest review.. OK so you know you read the first book in a series and fall in love with it then the author comes out with a second book and you think it cant be any better than the first well this author absolutely outdid herself with the second book in this series. I fell in love with Con and Pea but honestly I don't think I love them as much as I love Soph and Saul. OMG I just absolutely loved this book and want to scream it from the rooftops!!!! This book has it all.. Friends becoming lovers who have been in love with each other forever!!! YES THANK YOU!!! but wait it also has suspense and HOLY HOTNESS sexiness!!!! YES YES YES!!!!

Maria is a newer author but writes like she is a seasoned author.

With this book I was pulled in the first page and absolutely became obsessed with this book to the point that my hunny had to take away my kindle when I couldn't keep my eyes open anymore!!!

I am super excited and can not wait for Danes story!!!!
Profile Image for Shutupshabby.
Author 1 book12 followers
June 26, 2015

Two friends who have not had an easy life, dealing with life, without dealing with each other the way they so desperately need to.









What I thought



Oh I LOVE this story!

We met our Soph in book one (Love Reflection), she was the feisty model friend of Pea, but she had been attacked and was becoming a shell of her former self. Here in Love resisted we learn why she is the way she is and why she is changing and there is so much more to it, than her attack.

At the start of book one I didn't like Sophie one bit, but now, at the end of book two. I'm her biggest supporter. She is Fierce! She is strong and she is so cool I just wanna be her!
"Fuck babe, I knew you were strong; didn't know you were a warrior"
So the story goes, Sophie is trying to move on with her life and she cant do that comfortably whilst playing third wheel to Pea & Con. Solution? She moves out of their house and in with Dane, who she has conflicting feelings for. That poor girl is so confused but at the end of the day safety comes first and as we learn later on. She needs that safety net.

Dane isn't the only one confusing Sophie though. Life long friend / crush Saul is in her life in a big way and now that he has discovered he is Dane's brother, he see's his sibling as competition for Sophs attention.

In order for Sophie to get things on track with everyone, she needs to put on her big girl knickers, make a decision and be honest. Easier said that done, but that's my girl. Brave.

Dane too has to be honest with Sophie, but in order to be honest with her he has to be honest with himself. This is something he is not comfortable with.

Saul has spent his life time denying himself what he wants out of some misguided notion that he doesn't deserve what he wants. It takes a lot for him to look past this. (At this point I would like to point out that I HATE Sophs mum and I HATE HATE HATE Sauls mum too)

The honest talks that need to happen, do happen. The revelations are profound for some and thrilling for others.
"I can see he is worried by what i'm about to say. Deciding to grab my lady balls and give them a squeeze (metaphorically speaking) to remind myself that I am brave. I am fierce and that I am not a player"
I won't reveal how it ends, but there's a bad man, who funnily enough I also hate. There is so much tension, there is drama, hospital visits, some sexy time (wink wink) and a HEA for one of the men, but not the other.
"Even after what's happened to him today he still puts others first. My Brother. My Hero"
The none HEA is setting us up for book three. Which i'm going to have to insist you crack on with Maria!

This series has fast become a favourite of mine. Engaging, realistic characters. Stories I get stuck into and enjoy. A great balance of heat/romance & drama. There is even the bitchy workmate we all love to hate :)

All killer. No filler.
Profile Image for Sammy.
318 reviews71 followers
December 3, 2015
3.2 LOVED THE CHARACTERS stars

In the beginning of the book , I was a bit worried , where the story was going to be... The hero in denial for his love of heroine.. and all.. but around 20% he got hit hard by his brother and we get to see the amazing journey



I love it when the story begins from the point of hero-heroine together facing things rather than those stories where they get to meet at the end... what s the point of journey if not together...

I also prefer those kinda villian who wanna do bodily harm to the girl , which brings up the "Damsel in distress" theme and makes the hero extra protective ..



and dat too happened in the story ... (i hate those villians who create misunderstanding & henceforth dont prefer those kinda stories, which m glad didnt happen with this one.)

ANother thing I liked about this book was , how heroine did not made a single stupid mistake that puts everyone in jeopardi , neither did she become whining female ,but understood the actions hero took to protect her & was always grateful for her loving family.. oh i so loved this gal

ANd than there is this beautiful side characters , who bring so much more to the story, it creates a perfect world...

This book kinda reminded me of Paper Hearts , where the leads where surrounded by amazing side characters and helped them .

SO what are you waiting for... if u need to read a love story , with amazing characters & love & happiness... this is it
Profile Image for Itsy Bitsy Book Bits.
699 reviews50 followers
January 4, 2016
This is a series but I do not see any reason why you could not read this book as a standalone at all. This story does have a HEA to it. This is the second book of three that are out now. Like the first book it was a bit slow and did drag out in some places. This book goes back and forth between Soph’s view and then Saul’s view. This one was better conveyed than the first book of the characters back grounds and current situations. They kept the characters from the first book in the second book so that you can still follow on forward with their lives.

Soph has always been the social butterfly of the group of friends. She has always only had one love of her life. The only thing is she thinks that he does not feel the same for her that she feels for him. Because of her childhood with her mom she thinks she is not worthy of anyone’s love. She has had one other man in her life to make her feel a close to love, other than her dad, and now he is just a part of her friends/family.

Saul has been in Soph’s life all their lives. They have been close but he has used other women to keep him from going after his one true love. Will they ever have the love that they both want?

When Soph’s past comes back to her faster than she is ready to share with her friends/family she has no choice but to tell them how her life was with her mother. This brings her closer with everyone more than she expected. It shows her that she can be loved no matter what happens in her past or present.

This is a love story that will make you want to finish the series so that you can see what happens with the last characters and what continues to happen with the ones from the first book and this one as well.
Profile Image for Sam.
206 reviews9 followers
July 26, 2015
This is an AMAZING follow up story to the Entwined Hearts Series. This is a "friends to lovers" book and the story of Soph and Saul, and it is so beautiful, heartbreaking and just so much more than I expected. The intensity it holds, the sweet highs and the lowest of lows, are just a few feels this story brings. It is unique and Maria MacDonald has blessed the world with a story that holds a rollercoaster of emotions that left my heart beating so damn fast!
Sophie is a model, and has been in love with the same person FOREVER! But life events have kept them apart. The suspense has you reeling with the whole "WILL THEY? WON'T THEY?"
My heart, seriously, I swear I could feel it breaking as Soph's story was expressed. That girl, her strength, her bravery and courage was the highlight of this book for me. She is a WARRIOR!!!! Maria has written Soph's POV so beautifully and I was left in complete awe of her work!
Saul.....WHAT A GUY! He made me swoon, he made me laugh but his tenderness was just EVERYTHING!
Maria MacDonald exceeded my expectations for this novel! Don't go into this story thinking you know what will happen, BECAUSE YOU HAVE NO FREAKING IDEA!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
There are characters you will want to punch in the throat, there are characters you will want to chainsaw through the face, but that is another thing I LOVE ABOUT THIS AUTHOR! How she can make you react to her characters!
FANFREAKINGTASTIC addition to the series!
<3

Profile Image for DJ Sakata.
3,304 reviews1,780 followers
June 25, 2015
My Rating:

4.5

Favorite Quotes:

“Please don’t breathe on me, you’re bleaching my hair,”

“I don’t know everything that happened to you and likewise you don’t know what has happened to me, but we have time to find out. We have time to talk, to laugh, to cry, to heal. We have time to love, Soph.”

“Carlie doesn’t like me. Carlie, actually hates me. I think she’d be happy if I were to be attacked and eaten by rabid seagulls.”

“Chuckling he kisses my lips again, still looking at me he whispers, ‘My life can start now.’”

“Whoa lady, who lit your tampon string?”

“You’ll always be delicate to me because you are irreplaceable.”


My Review:

Love Resisted is one of those rare occasions when the second book in a series is superior to the first. While the first book – Love Reflection – was well written, Love Resisted is more. More intrigue, more steam, more passion, more humor, more comfortable, more story twists, and more dark secrets revealed. With that in mind, I cannot wait to see what Ms. Macdonald does with book 3. And swoon, Saul is my new BBF!

Profile Image for Fee (Ebook Addicts).
1,471 reviews45 followers
June 23, 2015
Love Resisted is book 2 in the Entwined Hearts series and this one is all about Sophie. I couldn't wait to read this one, I absolutely loved book one Love Reflected and jumped at the chance to read this one. The characters are so well loved and you just cant help but drawn in to their stories.

Love Resisted sees us get Sophie's story, we know from book one that she has had thing for Saul for longest time but neither have really acted on it and we also know she a bit of a crap life living with her mother growing up. Now we find out just how bad it was.

There is so much packed into this book that I really don't want to give any spoilers, as well as the love storyline between her and Saul, Sophie also has to deal with the aftermath of her attack from book one which we thought was over with.

This book will make feel all the feels it is that good! This is a brilliant follow up and I cant wait for book three where I hope we get Dane's story.

Absolutely 5 stars
Profile Image for Laura.
369 reviews63 followers
June 8, 2015
ARC received from the author in exchange for an honest review.

Love Resisted is the 2nd book in the Entwined Hearts series. I would definitely recommend reading book 1, Love Reflection, first to fully appreciate these characters.

I read this book over a few days and I loved it. I wanted to know what happened but I also didn't want it to end. This book is full of twists and turns. I didn't expect any of the things that happened, to happen. I was kept guessing right until the end and every time I thought I had an idea of where the story was going bam another plot twist. This book was intense, beautiful and even heart wrenching. It put my emotions through the wringer.

After solidly loving Maria's first two books I can honestly say I will be automatically 1-clicking all future releases from her. The sneak peek of Book 3, Love Renewed, at the end has me very excited for what's next from Maria.

5 stars!
Profile Image for Cee Cee Houston.
1,341 reviews27 followers
July 18, 2015
What can I say about Love Resisted, except, don't resist buying this book. It's so and very intense. It'll have you laughing and crying. You feel the highs and the lows and believe me when I say you will feel them. The ending is so fast paced and adrenaline filled I could barely type yesterday after I had finished reading it. Heart pumpingly good.
Saul is a man's man and feels he has to keep Soph at arm's length. He wants to protect her, even from himself. Until the unthinkable happens and then he has to re-evaluate his ideas. Love Soph properly or lose her forever. Soph has secrets too, some worse than the ones Saul carries that make him think he's not good enough for her. They're both broken in their own way. Can they fight for each other? They will need too. A shadow is coming. Big and black.
Profile Image for Yvette (Booksandbandanas).
476 reviews108 followers
June 8, 2015
This book was simply amazing. Maria MacDonald knocked this one out of the park. If you haven't started this series it starts with #LoveReflection it's amazing, this is the follow up to that book it was just as good if not better. the characters are awesome I love them all I feel like they are my friends everything about it is phenomenal. Read this you won't be disappointed ❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️
Profile Image for A.M. Johnson.
Author 41 books2,044 followers
October 12, 2015
As Always Mrs. Macdonald has written an intricately woven tale of love. She has such rich words. Love This Must Read
Profile Image for Klaire.
472 reviews4 followers
June 26, 2015
Gifted for an honest review – 4 ½ stars

“If I lick it, then it’s mine right?”

Before I start my review proper I have to say that if you haven’t read Maria’s debut, Love Reflection, then I suggest you go run and grab it now. You’d benefit a whole lot more having read con and Pea’s story before reading Sophie and Saul’s. These are heavily interconnected and I don’t think you can read one without the other. I have to also add, for the record, that I am a total wuss when it comes to reading an author’s second novel, especially when I enjoyed the debut so much. I panic that maybe the second won’t live up to its predecessor, and I leave the reading right down to the last minute. Well…..I’m jumping for joy here, I really am! Not only did this live up to the first, I think it surpassed it. I saw a growth in the writing style from Maria, the flow was so much better and the back and forth that usually irritates me really had no effect on me whilst reading. Maria seems to have this way of writing down to a tee. The character developments in both books are what absolutely shine for me. Maria has written some extremely profound characters, especially with the feisty and fiercely independent Sophie. She was such a joy to read!

“She’s the only woman on this planet that has the power to bring me to my knees.”

I’m wavering with my rating here for a few reasons, there are one or two things that I couldn’t ignore and just weren’t spot on for me. I’m not going to rehash the plot here and I do apologise if my review is a garbled mess but I’m just really going to set my thoughts down. The plot running through this is really good, its current and relatable and just a touch darker than what Pea and Con’s story was. Here’s my first observation and it revolves around Patrick. This had the potential to be a lot darker, whilst I understand the part Patrick played in Sophie’s life I felt that that particular plot line was a little unconvincing. More so the actual character that the story. I didn’t feel his anger as much as I feel I maybe should have. I would have liked to have seen that storyline developed more. The addition of Carlie had me scratching my head a little, I get that she was perhaps involved in this story to create conflict but again I found that there was potential there for something meatier but unfortunately underdeveloped again. Who knows, maybe she plays her part in Dane’s story and it was simply an introductory role that she played? This brings me on to the overall emotional context of Love Resisted, I mean the emotions for the reader are there for the most part but I thought that perhaps there were a few scenes that fell flat when there should have been more feelings. This didn’t quite get to me the way that Love Reflected did in that respect. There’s a good amount of humour to be found in here but in all honesty I wasn’t expecting anything different as it was there in the first book too. Lots of angsty moments, sad moments, and joyous ones too. It’s all there to make up a generally great book. A book you can find yourself lost in quite easily.

“F**k babe, did you get gang banged by Crayola?”

While the story meshes together and works really well I found one glaringly obvious inconsistency that I couldn’t get out of my head. It niggled at me, and I still don’t have the answer to it so I might have to go and ask the author. I don’t see it being cleared up in the next book. The introduction of Con’s US friends is brilliant, I loved that tie in very much but I really didn’t expect the revelation that unfolded.

“Whoa lady, who lit your tampon string?”

What I loved about this, really loved, was the continuation of these 5 people and how their lives intertwine. Again Maria impresses on that feeling of family and love and friendship and how through having each other’s back that they can take on the world. You don’t need to be blood to be family. I adored the fact that I could continue to read Pea and Con’s story, they are pretty prevalent throughout Love Resisted. Sophie’s story is not pleasant, and I guess neither is Saul’s so you need to be aware that as a reader you will have some uncomfortable moments but you will also have some memories to take form this book. It’s not one that you will read and forget in any hurry.

“You’ll always be delicate to me because you are irreplaceable.”

Once all is said and done I think I can quite confidently say that if you give me anything that this author writes then I am going to read it. Loved her debut, and loved this. Recommended, and I look forward to reading about Dane. I think that one is going to be a bit darker again (hoping anyway) but I’m invested in these characters now and I need to see where he goes. Congrats Maria on a fantastic book #2!
91 reviews3 followers
June 28, 2015
I received a gifted copy in exchange for a honest review.

Love Resisted is Sophie's and Saul's story. The title fit the story line perfectly since both characters spent a lifetime resisting love. Love Resisted is about letting go of demons, allowing yourself to open to love, and finding freedom in the arms of friends. The story is engaging and brings you to the point of excitement to see how Dane's story will come out. We see more of the cast from Love Reflected. I suggest you read Love Reflected prior to reading Marie's newest novel.

In Love Resisted readers gain a more intimate knowledge of Sophie. As I read Love Reflected I felt that Sophie always was separated from the group. She just seemed more unobtainable. As I read Love Resisted I found that Sophie had a past that followed her everywhere she went. She had a mom that used her, a deceased dad, and people who tried to control her. She kept men on the side only hoping one day that the man she loved would return her feelings. Rejection seemed to be the only thing this man returned. It takes near tragedy for feelings to come forward, but now Sophie must be protected.

Saul has always had women hanging off his arms. He hurt the girl that loved him by his constant rejection. After reading about Saul's upbringing I could understand why Saul felt that he was not good for anything serious. His mother told him that on a constant basis. She was critical, emotionally aloof, and abusive in her words. She literally broke Saul.

What I loved about the characters spotlighted in Love Resisted is the fact that they became each others teacher in love. What one lacked the other worked to overcome. It was a teeter totter of balance, and having each others back no one feel off. Saul changed in the book. He became the strong protector. He turned to his family of friends and allowed them to have his back. Saul also got to see what having a family was like. The person that Saul had the hardest time with in the beginning ended up being the person he turned to in the end. This posse broken by pasts became a united from when it came to helping one of their own. It is like my son says when he told me that family is not only blood, it is those that are the most loyal to you in good times and bad times. That describes Love Reflected and the group of characters that reside in that story.

Love Resisted is a great book. It deserves the accolades of being known for it's use of friends being family and protecting each other. I highly recommend this series, and I recommend you catch up before Dane's story comes out. Dane's story is going to be quite explosive.

Profile Image for Morgan Terry.
103 reviews7 followers
January 30, 2016
Holy. Wow. Maria has struck again! This time around, as the plot thickens, we delve into the world of Saul and Soph - two people who were undeniably meant for one another but circumstance and a hard headed man prevented them from achieving their HEA. Maria certainly pulled extra hard on my heartstrings for this book!

Soph was the fun and quirky character from Love Reflection that made you want her as your best friend. Even after her attack there was a side to her that made you know she was a tough survivor. But it's not until this book that you see her for who she really is. As Saul amazingly puts it, "...knew you were strong; didn't know you were a warrior." And she is. Overcoming obstacles, an abusive mother, and a psycho hell bent on making her his own, Soph finally leaves home. But keeping secrets is a must, even from her three closest friends so she locked her past away.

Saul was only a small child when he made a promise to always protect Soph and he certainly took that oath to heart. He was a peculiar, yet intriguing, character in Love Reflection as you didn't really get to know him until this book. Deep down inside he knows Soph is his ever-beating heart but outward? He's her savior. For years he's had to quell his own thoughts and feelings so Soph could rely on him and the others to be there. Her true family, stronger than blood. But one swift kick from Dane and his eyes have finally opened.

As the two embark on a journey that rivals the most romantic of movies and books, Soph and Saul have to come to grips with the fact that their reality is about get checked. Secrets are revealed as Soph's past comes back for a fight of all fights and it's up to Saul, Dane, and Con to protect their girls and their family harder than ever before.

Each book Maria writes slowly makes a home in my heart! She makes you fall more and more in love with her characters and makes you wish you were living each heart-clutching and powerful moment right there with the characters. Now I must go read Dane's book because if the preview of his story was any indication, I'm going to need tissue, chocolate, and rumor has it, a big giant fan! Whew!

***story received in exchange for an honest review***
Profile Image for Nerdy Dirty & Flirty.
3,985 reviews363 followers
June 27, 2015
description

Heartbreaking and heartwarming…

I couldn’t wait for this book to get here and I was not disappointed! This is the second book in a series with characters and stories that continue to melt my heart. You really want to read the first book before starting this one as the stage was set beautifully there for Soph and Saul’s story.

“In my defense though, I’m pretty sure pancakes are out to get me.”
I look back up to him and he has a shit-eating grin.
Yeah, he’s going to make someone very happy one day.


Sophie and Saul are part of a tight-knit group that bonded as kids and stayed together in a family forged by love and friendship. Soph has not-so-secretly been in love with Saul for years but is done with being pushed away. She is going to try one last time to reach him but then she has to let him go. Saul is in love with Soph, always has been, but he still feels he isn’t good enough for her. So much angst and non-communication it’s a wonder if they can make it work, but they are going to try.

I didn’t think it was possible but I think I loved this book more than the first. All the characters are back and we get to learn more about them and the friendships that have been sustained over the years. Soph has been hiding a lot of the hurt and trauma in her life but all is slowly revealed as she and Saul try to figure out what love means for them. Her party girl façade has masked so much hurt and pain. The drama and conflicts are intense but the author manages to make it believable and not over the top. At the same time, there is laugh out loud humour with Pea and Eric having me chuckle more than once. A plot that moved too quickly for me (I didn't want the story to end) with a climax that had me riveted to the pages. A wonderful conclusion as well as a tease for what is to come. Read this story and you will know why I want to karaoke with this crowd as I'm forced to wait for Dane and Libby’s story!
Profile Image for Laura Nelson (Tangents and Tissues).
777 reviews73 followers
November 16, 2015
I just knew from reading Love Reflection, Book One of this series, that Sophie’s party girl image was a mask for some inner pain. My heart hurt for her as her story was revealed, but as per usual in bookland, the past doesn’t stay hidden for long.

How can you make yourself vulnerable to love when it’s been drummed into you that you are undeserving of such a thing?

Enter Saul, striving to get back to 100% fitness following injuries received in the car accident (read book one) and reeling from the fact he has a half-brother. Can Sophie and Saul finally acknowledge the love they have for one another after all these years and mend their broken pieces to become whole? I loved watching as they recognise that they only ‘fit’ with each other:

“I close my eyes and breathe out laying my head on his chest. I feel one of the broken pieces of my heart slide back into place.”

The sexual tension between the two is masterly weaved & I swear I kept hearing Marvin Gaye’s Let’s Get It On every time they were in a room together. The only thing about reading on your kindle….it doesn’t make the best fan lol. For Saul & Soph, all previous encounters are obliterated when the passion takes hold. Imagine if Saul said this to you:

“Now babe…now, I claim you.”

Oh Frigging My!

I was literally on the edge of my seat as the suspense is built and the threat of danger is imminent. I have to warn you: there were tears, both happy and sad, but it is all worth it.

Soph: “He pulls me from the darkness and he’s the only one who can save me.”

Saul: “That’s my girl, my fighter, my warrior, my saviour, my forever.”

All your favourite characters are there: Con, Pea, Eric, Rich and of course Dane! I love how this group have made their own family as Soph sums it up:

“I don’t need to be brave anymore because I have a family around me that will always be there to fight for me and to fight with me, and they are all the strength I need.”

5 amazing stars!! Now onto Dane’s story….
Profile Image for BeautyandtheBooks.
272 reviews16 followers
June 28, 2015
Blown away.

As with the first book, Love Reflection, I'm awed with the contents of this story. The characters, the way it's written, the plots... All of it. It's not one of those love stories where it's all peaches and cream and maybe one thing happens, maybe a fight or an ex, and then it's back to la la land. NO, it's a story where a lot of things happen.. Things you wouldn't see coming and not always good things, but things that will rip you open, make you feel. The love that this band of friends has for one another is pure. Pure love. Family. Although this is Soph and Saul's story, there are so many other amazing characters. They're all incorporated and it wouldn't do without them. They all make these books what they are. Amazing! Soph is such a fighter. I love her! She is definitely at the top of my great heroine list. Saul is broken, but with Soph he is whole. They needed each other. I'm so happy they finally found their way to each other after all those years of fighting it. So many parts broke my heart, so many laughs, smiles, tears. This group will always and forever be a part of me. Maria McDonald doesn't let you down and she doesn't bore you. She projects so many feelings into her words. This story was worthy of more than five stars. Her stories and words are the real deal! Loved every single word. I would give anything to see her books become movies.
Profile Image for BeautyandtheBooks.
272 reviews16 followers
July 7, 2015
Blown away.

As with the first book, Love Reflection, I'm awed with the contents of this story. The characters, the way it's written, the plots... All of it. It's not one of those love stories where it's all peaches and cream and maybe one thing happens, maybe a fight or an ex, and then it's back to la la land. NO, it's a story where a lot of things happen.. Things you wouldn't see coming and not always good things, but things that will rip you open, make you feel. The love that this band of friends has for one another is pure. Pure love. Family. Although this is Soph and Saul's story, there are so many other amazing characters. They're all incorporated and it wouldn't do without them. They all make these books what they are. Amazing! Soph is such a fighter. I love her! She is definitely at the top of my great heroine list. Saul is broken, but with Soph he is whole. They needed each other. I'm so happy they finally found their way to each other after all those years of fighting it. So many parts broke my heart, so many laughs, smiles, tears. This group will always and forever be a part of me. Maria McDonald doesn't let you down and she doesn't bore you. She projects so many feelings into her words. This story was worthy of more than five stars. Her stories and words are the real deal! Loved every single word. I would give anything to see her books become movies.
Profile Image for Sophie.
590 reviews479 followers
June 26, 2015
Well. Wow. What a beautiful raw tale of hurt, love, loss, betrayal and friendship.
This book kind of broke me up a fair few times but Maria did a beautiful job of sticking me all back together again.
I was happy to see more of Pea and Con throughout and although this isn't their story, I'm glad we got their continuation. I mean no body likes to say goodbye to great characters.
Dane, well I love him! His story devastated me and broke my heart, unfortunately that was the only bit that wasn't fixed so I cannot wait to read his story!
I adore Soph. I love her spirit, her fight, her love and her devotion. Her life is one big fast emotional roller coaster and during this book, hold on because you definitely go along for the ride. The connection to Soph was masterfully written and directed throughout.
And Saul. Well. Erm.. Yeah. I love him too. Although I must admit, I did want to shake him to start. But woah, he's hot, sinfully sexy and dirty. And massive and has muscles, yeah I could go on! Without giving to much away though, he's just utterly perfect and when we get his POV, well I was a goner.
This book is set in England and I loved seeing English places used, some I've been to myself and Maria captured the descriptive parts of this books perfectly.
Beautifully amazing 5 star read!

**ARC received for Review for Bookalicious Babes Blog **
Profile Image for Kelly O'Connor.
927 reviews23 followers
June 25, 2015
Firstly I have to say that I have the honour of being a beta reader for this book. It was an absolute joy to be involved and read this amazing journey.It's part two in the entwined hearts series, this story focuses on Sophie. We first met Sophie in Love Reflected which was all about Pea and Con, so we already know a little bit about her background but in this book we get to delve a lot deeper to find out what made Sophie into the woman she is today.
When I first read the blurb I did think the story would go in a particular way but was relieved to find out that this was not the case. Many of the books I read tend to follow the same format, boy meets girl, they fall in love, then for some reason they part for a while to be reunited later. It's refreshing to read a book that doesn't follow that format and the author is not afraid to use other characters POV to add depth and more understanding to their story.
As I said this is Sophie and Saul's story but we get to hear how Pea and Con are getting on which I loved. As this is Maria's second novel I believe her confidence has grown and so have the sex scenes there's definitely more sex in this book and it's a hotter read, mix it with the drama and suspense and you have one hot summer read !
363 reviews2 followers
June 19, 2015
Review for Love Resisted (Entwined Hearts #2) by Maria Macdonald

Review done for Hooked on Books

4 ½ out of 5 stars

When Sophie Rawlings’ dad died, her life spiraled out of control. She was left to be raised by a mother who hated her. Growing up without love of a parent has made her feel unworthy. Her self-esteem is low and she guards her heart.

The only real love she knows is from her best friends. Their group of four mean everything to her, especially Saul. Sophie has been in love with him forever but he has never returned those feelings.

Saul has also grown up with an abusive and coldhearted mother. He also keeps his heart guarded. He has loved Sophie since he can remember but hasn’t wanted to do anything about it to protect their friendship.

Neither of them can deny their feelings anymore. Both of them bare their souls to each other and the past of one of them is putting everyone they love in danger.

I loved this story. The story line was great and it kept me intrigued throughout the entire book.

There was just the right amount of angst and suspense and the characters are wonderful.

This series is a must read.
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