What do you think?
Rate this book
Suspicious Hearts #1
Home to You
He held her through her darkest moments, caught her tears on capable shoulders, but one thing kept them apart.
At twenty-six, Katie McGregor is starting over and returning to the man she’s loved her whole life. Jake Johnson. The man whose smile made her pulse race, whose touch made her knees weak, and whose words broke her heart.
With three years separation, Jake welcomes her into his life with open arms and that same sexy smile. But is he the same man who doesn’t do relationship? The one who thought of her as a little sister?
A thousand memories between them; one hurt to jeopardize it all.
She knew returning home wouldn’t be easy, she just didn’t know it would be this hard.
Home to You is a STAND ALONE NOVEL and part of the Suspicious Hearts series. Each book is written to be enjoyed on it's own, while following shared characters throughout the series.
At twenty-six, Katie McGregor is starting over and returning to the man she’s loved her whole life. Jake Johnson. The man whose smile made her pulse race, whose touch made her knees weak, and whose words broke her heart.
With three years separation, Jake welcomes her into his life with open arms and that same sexy smile. But is he the same man who doesn’t do relationship? The one who thought of her as a little sister?
A thousand memories between them; one hurt to jeopardize it all.
She knew returning home wouldn’t be easy, she just didn’t know it would be this hard.
Home to You is a STAND ALONE NOVEL and part of the Suspicious Hearts series. Each book is written to be enjoyed on it's own, while following shared characters throughout the series.
283 pages, ebook
First published August 10, 2015
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 117 reviews
July 28, 2017
3 Stars
Overall Opinion: I'm a sucker for unrequited love stories, and this one hit the nail on the head for those type feelings. The reason for my rating being so low is because the drama was kind of stupid. It felt as if the author wanted to put in the stereotypical drama I also hated how abrupt the ending was. Was it still enjoyable? Yes. Was it going down as one of my favorites? No.
Storyline: This was Katie and Jake's story. They grew up together as neighbors and Jake was best friends with Katie's older brother. Katie always had feelings for Jake that went beyond friendship. He always treated her like the little sister. He was there for her when her father died and when her brother died. After her brother died, they cross the line and kiss. Jake pulls away and Katie is heartbroken and decides that it is finally time for her to move on from her unrequited feelings for Jake. The story begins with Katie confronting and leaving her boyfriend of 2 1/2 years for cheating on her with multiple women and she is leaving San Diego to go back home to LA. She is going to stay with Jake (who she hasn't seen for over 2 years). Her feelings come back instantly, but Jake has a girlfriend. She does not pursue anything with him because she doesn't want to ruin the only relationship she has of value. She deals with her strong feelings of jealousy, her making new friends, her starting a new job, and eventually winning her HFN with Jake.
POV:. This was in Katie's POV.
Overall Pace of Story: Ok. There were flashbacks at beginning of story to set up the feelings she was experiencing while getting ready to see Jake after so long. The ending seemed to wrap everything up with a bow too quickly and neatly for my taste.
H rating: 3 stars. Jake. Just ok. I would've liked to hear his POV, because his personality was kind of bland. I felt like at the end he professes his love but up until that point it was just subtly hinted that he might feel that way for her.
h rating: 3 stars. Katie. Just ok...kind of boring.
Sadness level: Moderate. Like I said -- I'm a sucker for unrequited love, so this had me tear up a few times.
Heat level: Low. Some steamy times, but not many and just ok.
Descriptive sex: Yes.
Sex scene with OW or OM:
Cheating:
Possible Triggers:
Closure: I would say HFN at the most. It was a really abrupt ending with lots of questions unanswered...
Overall Opinion: I'm a sucker for unrequited love stories, and this one hit the nail on the head for those type feelings. The reason for my rating being so low is because the drama was kind of stupid. It felt as if the author wanted to put in the stereotypical drama I also hated how abrupt the ending was. Was it still enjoyable? Yes. Was it going down as one of my favorites? No.
Storyline: This was Katie and Jake's story. They grew up together as neighbors and Jake was best friends with Katie's older brother. Katie always had feelings for Jake that went beyond friendship. He always treated her like the little sister. He was there for her when her father died and when her brother died. After her brother died, they cross the line and kiss. Jake pulls away and Katie is heartbroken and decides that it is finally time for her to move on from her unrequited feelings for Jake. The story begins with Katie confronting and leaving her boyfriend of 2 1/2 years for cheating on her with multiple women and she is leaving San Diego to go back home to LA. She is going to stay with Jake (who she hasn't seen for over 2 years). Her feelings come back instantly, but Jake has a girlfriend. She does not pursue anything with him because she doesn't want to ruin the only relationship she has of value. She deals with her strong feelings of jealousy, her making new friends, her starting a new job, and eventually winning her HFN with Jake.
POV:. This was in Katie's POV.
Overall Pace of Story: Ok. There were flashbacks at beginning of story to set up the feelings she was experiencing while getting ready to see Jake after so long. The ending seemed to wrap everything up with a bow too quickly and neatly for my taste.
H rating: 3 stars. Jake. Just ok. I would've liked to hear his POV, because his personality was kind of bland. I felt like at the end he professes his love but up until that point it was just subtly hinted that he might feel that way for her.
h rating: 3 stars. Katie. Just ok...kind of boring.
Sadness level: Moderate. Like I said -- I'm a sucker for unrequited love, so this had me tear up a few times.
Heat level: Low. Some steamy times, but not many and just ok.
Descriptive sex: Yes.
Sex scene with OW or OM:
Cheating:
Possible Triggers:
Closure: I would say HFN at the most. It was a really abrupt ending with lots of questions unanswered...
April 18, 2019
I found Katie to be lacking in self confidence. I have a hard time liking a heroine who has an internal dialogue that is so pathetic. She was hung up on her older brothers friend for years. She threw herself at him when they were young and he rejected her. Of course, he liked her but thought himself undeserving because he unjustly blamed himself for her brothers death. Cue the violins.
She left town and gave her virginity away to her next boyfriend and he ended up cheating on her. He was her only.
While Jake sexed it up with everyone.
When they reconnect, he asks her why she waited so long. She tells him that she compared every guy to him and they all came up lacking. He ate that up, but sadly he didn't do the same for her... which tells me he found other women just as quality as her.
Over all this book gave me a cringey face while reading and I don't enjoy the wrinkles that causes.
She left town and gave her virginity away to her next boyfriend and he ended up cheating on her. He was her only.
While Jake sexed it up with everyone.
When they reconnect, he asks her why she waited so long. She tells him that she compared every guy to him and they all came up lacking. He ate that up, but sadly he didn't do the same for her... which tells me he found other women just as quality as her.
Over all this book gave me a cringey face while reading and I don't enjoy the wrinkles that causes.
August 26, 2019
I love brothers best friend but this one didn’t quit do it for me. It started out promising but just turned cheesy and I had to skim at least half of it.
August 11, 2015
I cannot believe this was a debut novel. Wow. This read like a Jennifer Armentrout book, and I adore me some Jen. I have a new author to add to my favorites list!
Katie was a pretty cool character. Approachable, friendly, but realistic. Then there's Jake. Jake was just freaking amazing. From his nickname for her, Kit Kat, to his opening his house for her at the drop of a hat, he had it all.
The thing I found so great about this book was how much I wanted to meet these characters. I wanted to take pictures with Katie, surf at dawn with Jake, shop with Em, and go for a drink with John. I am looking forward to more glimpses into their lives in future books.
My personal favorite part? Finding out what the code to the house stood for. Little things like that just stick with me. Love is about the little things.
I cannot recommend this book enough!!
Katie was a pretty cool character. Approachable, friendly, but realistic. Then there's Jake. Jake was just freaking amazing. From his nickname for her, Kit Kat, to his opening his house for her at the drop of a hat, he had it all.
The thing I found so great about this book was how much I wanted to meet these characters. I wanted to take pictures with Katie, surf at dawn with Jake, shop with Em, and go for a drink with John. I am looking forward to more glimpses into their lives in future books.
My personal favorite part? Finding out what the code to the house stood for. Little things like that just stick with me. Love is about the little things.
I cannot recommend this book enough!!
November 26, 2017
A solid sturdy 3 stars! It moved at a nice pace and I didn't skim!
August 19, 2015
AMY C'S REVIEW
4.5 STARS
I am a huge sucker for second chance (or any chance) love! This book was so adaptable and sweet and just what I needed to read. It was coming of age, love, heartache and redemption all rolled into one fantastic story. It was my first from this author and it won't be my last. She did a great job with the story line and flow of e book.
I absolutely loved Jake & Katie. They were playful and fragile and just beautiful to read. I loved the comfort ability they had with each other. It made the books story line move so easy. With all of the comfort came a shyness that was sweet to see. Watching them dance around their feelings and trying to navigate their new arrangement was so cute. I was so in love with them that I really didn't want their story to end!!
This book was very easy to read and offered minimal angst. I enjoyed the story and the writing was fantastic. This was a great debut novel for this author and I know amazing things will be coming from her in the future! Completely recommend this book and give it an easy 4.5 stars!!
ERIN'S REVIEW
4 STARS
This was a great second chance romance. Katie and Jake are both struggling. Jake blames himself for Katie’s brother Dave’s accident that killed him. He feels like he is not good enough for Katie. But he knows he won’t be able to fight the connection much longer. Katie has faced rejection at the hands of Jake twice already and she knows a third time will break her. She tries very hard to fight her attraction to him, but she has loved him forever and her fight is pointless. They both need each other in their lives like they need air to breathe. They have spent the last three years with little to no contact. It was very hard on both of them. Both Jake and Katie have people in their lives that keep the drama flowing. Katie is barely holding on, trying to start her life over again. Jake hasn’t really been living the last three years. I know the saying is cliché, but these characters really do complete each other. Katie reconnects with old friends and makes a few new friends as well. The author did a wonderful job with this story and conveyed such depth of emotion. Definitely putting this author to my TBR list!
AMY E'S REVIEW
4 STARS
The cover to this book is beautiful and the blurb made me think of a fun summer read.
I love friends to lovers stories. Jake and Katie's story had all the feels. I both loved and hated Katie and Jake throughout the story. It was sweet, raw, fun, and sad. Their relationship was full of twists and turns that kept me eager for more.
Em and John were well written supporting characters that really balanced out Jake and Katie. They added to the story and left me wondering if we would see more from them.
4.5 STARS
I am a huge sucker for second chance (or any chance) love! This book was so adaptable and sweet and just what I needed to read. It was coming of age, love, heartache and redemption all rolled into one fantastic story. It was my first from this author and it won't be my last. She did a great job with the story line and flow of e book.
I absolutely loved Jake & Katie. They were playful and fragile and just beautiful to read. I loved the comfort ability they had with each other. It made the books story line move so easy. With all of the comfort came a shyness that was sweet to see. Watching them dance around their feelings and trying to navigate their new arrangement was so cute. I was so in love with them that I really didn't want their story to end!!
This book was very easy to read and offered minimal angst. I enjoyed the story and the writing was fantastic. This was a great debut novel for this author and I know amazing things will be coming from her in the future! Completely recommend this book and give it an easy 4.5 stars!!
ERIN'S REVIEW
4 STARS
This was a great second chance romance. Katie and Jake are both struggling. Jake blames himself for Katie’s brother Dave’s accident that killed him. He feels like he is not good enough for Katie. But he knows he won’t be able to fight the connection much longer. Katie has faced rejection at the hands of Jake twice already and she knows a third time will break her. She tries very hard to fight her attraction to him, but she has loved him forever and her fight is pointless. They both need each other in their lives like they need air to breathe. They have spent the last three years with little to no contact. It was very hard on both of them. Both Jake and Katie have people in their lives that keep the drama flowing. Katie is barely holding on, trying to start her life over again. Jake hasn’t really been living the last three years. I know the saying is cliché, but these characters really do complete each other. Katie reconnects with old friends and makes a few new friends as well. The author did a wonderful job with this story and conveyed such depth of emotion. Definitely putting this author to my TBR list!
AMY E'S REVIEW
4 STARS
The cover to this book is beautiful and the blurb made me think of a fun summer read.
I love friends to lovers stories. Jake and Katie's story had all the feels. I both loved and hated Katie and Jake throughout the story. It was sweet, raw, fun, and sad. Their relationship was full of twists and turns that kept me eager for more.
Em and John were well written supporting characters that really balanced out Jake and Katie. They added to the story and left me wondering if we would see more from them.
August 18, 2017
“What do you want, Jake?”
“For you to trust me, for you to stop telling me you're leaving, and to kiss you unil you no longer hurt.”
Home to You is such a heartwarming romantic story, I highly recommend it.
“For you to trust me, for you to stop telling me you're leaving, and to kiss you unil you no longer hurt.”
Home to You is such a heartwarming romantic story, I highly recommend it.
October 3, 2017
Loved it
This is the second book I've read by this author and I was no disappointed. Such a great job is done weaving intricate romances that tug on the heartstrings.
This is the second book I've read by this author and I was no disappointed. Such a great job is done weaving intricate romances that tug on the heartstrings.
July 3, 2021
I adored this book. It was so raw and full of emotions, I’m not ashamed to admit I cried quite a few times. I longed for Jake and Katie to be together. Each turn of the page, I wondered if that would finally be the page their years of built up sexual tension and obvious love for one another would finally ignite into flames of burning passion.
The only downfall of this book is the amount of time things go to progress. There were a few of the storylines I feel could have gone on a bit longer, or had better tie ins or endings? But overall this book was wonderful. I recommend this book 110%. Just be sure you have tissues!
The only downfall of this book is the amount of time things go to progress. There were a few of the storylines I feel could have gone on a bit longer, or had better tie ins or endings? But overall this book was wonderful. I recommend this book 110%. Just be sure you have tissues!
February 22, 2018
I just love friendships turned romances, especially when they have a 20 year history! This was a very cute, happy, (somewhat) thrilling read! Jake is described as a total hottie and gentleman. Katie seems like the girl next door, madly in love with her older brothers best friend. The chemistry through this book was so good too. Definitely recommend this book for a quick read!
Shelved as 'not-appealing'
February 12, 2019Doesn't sound like something I would enjoy:
https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
April 29, 2020
Love the story line. This the the second book I read - from the same author. Love the way she brings the characters alive. She is currently my favourite author.
August 20, 2015
Katie McGregor has decided to come home. She’s returning to the one man she has ever truly loved. Jake Johnson welcomes her home with his warm smile and charming ways that maybe her heart race.
Years have separated them does he still think of her as a little sister? Is he still the guy who doesn’t do relationships?
He was always there to hold her through her darkest times, making her feel safe.
Will be there this time be different? Can they really have a chance at the love Katie so desperately wants?
Katie and Jake grow up in the same neighborhood and he was best friends with Katie’s older brother. So they spent a lot of time together. Jake was always playing the protective big brother to Katie though she always had feelings beyond a brother / sister type of relationship toward Jake.
When Katie loses her father and then her brother— Jake is there to wipe her tears and hold her while she cries. They share a kiss when her brother dies, but to Katie’s disappointment Jake pulls away and leaves her heartbroken. So from that point on she decides it’s time to forget about Jake and move on with her life he doesn’t care for that way and never will.
Katie doesn’t fare much better when she leaves town with her boyfriend of two plus years cheats on her repeatedly so she leaves her place in San Diego and tries to return home to L.A. to start over. She ends up staying with Jake so of course her feelings resurface, but it doesn’t matter Jake has a girlfriend and apparently still only sees her as a sister. Pushing down her feelings of despair and jealousy she tries to make new friends, start a new job, and concentrate on herself while keeping the friendship with Jake she always had.
The story is told from Katie’s POV. I would have like to know his POV as well, I am a big fan of the dual POV in any type of story.
Jake was the protective type he was there for Kate or Kit Kat as he called her how adorable is that. When he realized he might have feelings for her too, he pushed her way not wanting to lose the friendship. He is guilt ridden believing her brother’s accident was his fault. In the end he can’t help but fall in love with her. Their connection is so strong you feel it throughout the book.
Katie a realistic character which I like someone I would have as one of my girlfriends. Jake and Katie together are a great couple once they stop fighting their true feelings.
In the end everything gets wrapped up for a nice HEA. This was my first read from this author I will definitely check out her next works. Taylor Sullivan writes very well for a debut novel, it had a good flow and the plot was nice. Unrequited love stories are always entertaining this one was excellent. It had emotion, depth, heartbreak and a lasting love story.
RECEIVED AN ARC IN EXCHANGE FOR AN HONEST REVIEW.
Years have separated them does he still think of her as a little sister? Is he still the guy who doesn’t do relationships?
He was always there to hold her through her darkest times, making her feel safe.
Will be there this time be different? Can they really have a chance at the love Katie so desperately wants?
Katie and Jake grow up in the same neighborhood and he was best friends with Katie’s older brother. So they spent a lot of time together. Jake was always playing the protective big brother to Katie though she always had feelings beyond a brother / sister type of relationship toward Jake.
When Katie loses her father and then her brother— Jake is there to wipe her tears and hold her while she cries. They share a kiss when her brother dies, but to Katie’s disappointment Jake pulls away and leaves her heartbroken. So from that point on she decides it’s time to forget about Jake and move on with her life he doesn’t care for that way and never will.
Katie doesn’t fare much better when she leaves town with her boyfriend of two plus years cheats on her repeatedly so she leaves her place in San Diego and tries to return home to L.A. to start over. She ends up staying with Jake so of course her feelings resurface, but it doesn’t matter Jake has a girlfriend and apparently still only sees her as a sister. Pushing down her feelings of despair and jealousy she tries to make new friends, start a new job, and concentrate on herself while keeping the friendship with Jake she always had.
The story is told from Katie’s POV. I would have like to know his POV as well, I am a big fan of the dual POV in any type of story.
Jake was the protective type he was there for Kate or Kit Kat as he called her how adorable is that. When he realized he might have feelings for her too, he pushed her way not wanting to lose the friendship. He is guilt ridden believing her brother’s accident was his fault. In the end he can’t help but fall in love with her. Their connection is so strong you feel it throughout the book.
Katie a realistic character which I like someone I would have as one of my girlfriends. Jake and Katie together are a great couple once they stop fighting their true feelings.
In the end everything gets wrapped up for a nice HEA. This was my first read from this author I will definitely check out her next works. Taylor Sullivan writes very well for a debut novel, it had a good flow and the plot was nice. Unrequited love stories are always entertaining this one was excellent. It had emotion, depth, heartbreak and a lasting love story.
RECEIVED AN ARC IN EXCHANGE FOR AN HONEST REVIEW.
August 12, 2015
Love, love, loved this book!
The complexity of the characters and engaging nature of the story reminded me a lot of Colleen Hoover!
The author really captured the feelings of what it is like to have a first, unrequited, love! Luckily for the reader, the ending is much happier than my own! ;)
The characters were endearing, relatable and above all believable! Katie is the every-girl that we can all identify with. She is smart, talented and a little vulnerable. Jake is like the boys I crushed on in my youth...but better! The supporting characters are intriguing and the relationships that Katie has/develops with them ring true.
The dialogue is well written and I found myself laughing out loud at moments! While this was a fun, light read, it was equally heartfelt as well.
While some might like to know what is going on behind the scenes in Jakes head, I feel that Taylor showing us only Katie's thoughts truly brought me back to that uncertainty in an early romance! I wanted to discover the story with her. There is something about those butterflies!
Overall, I thoroughly enjoyed this book (I practically binge read it in one sitting)! I am SO looking forward to reading more of her work!
Thank you, Taylor Sullivan for writing a truly enjoyable story! I hope you write more!
The complexity of the characters and engaging nature of the story reminded me a lot of Colleen Hoover!
The author really captured the feelings of what it is like to have a first, unrequited, love! Luckily for the reader, the ending is much happier than my own! ;)
The characters were endearing, relatable and above all believable! Katie is the every-girl that we can all identify with. She is smart, talented and a little vulnerable. Jake is like the boys I crushed on in my youth...but better! The supporting characters are intriguing and the relationships that Katie has/develops with them ring true.
The dialogue is well written and I found myself laughing out loud at moments! While this was a fun, light read, it was equally heartfelt as well.
While some might like to know what is going on behind the scenes in Jakes head, I feel that Taylor showing us only Katie's thoughts truly brought me back to that uncertainty in an early romance! I wanted to discover the story with her. There is something about those butterflies!
Overall, I thoroughly enjoyed this book (I practically binge read it in one sitting)! I am SO looking forward to reading more of her work!
Thank you, Taylor Sullivan for writing a truly enjoyable story! I hope you write more!
August 12, 2015
This was a great second chance romance. Katie and Jake are both struggling. Jake blames himself for Katie’s brother Dave’s accident that killed him. He feels like he is not good enough for Katie. But he knows he won’t be able to fight the connection much longer. Katie has faced rejection at the hands of Jake twice already and she knows a third time will break her. She tries very hard to fight her attraction to him, but she has loved him forever and her fight is pointless. They both need each other in their lives like they need air to breathe. They have spent the last three years with little to no contact. It was very hard on both of them. Both Jake and Katie have people in their lives that keep the drama flowing. Katie is barely holding on, trying to start her life over again. Jake hasn’t really been living the last three years. I know the saying is cliché, but these characters really do complete each other. Katie reconnects with old friends and makes a few new friends as well. The author did a wonderful job with this story and conveyed such depth of emotion. Definitely putting this author to my TBR list!
Reviewed for FMR Book Grind
Reviewed for FMR Book Grind
October 23, 2015
Taylor Sullivan is now firmly on my Authors to watch out for list. Home to You was a perfect romance book that held enough drama to keep the book interesting without it taking away from the romance itself. I adored Katie and Jake's heartbreaking story and I found myself really rooting for them as a couple throughout the book.
I won't lie there are things that I would change about this book such as a Jake's girlfriend whom I wanted to strangle and throw in a fire, and also I really would have loved an epilogue that showed what happened to Katie and Jake. I found the secondary characters to be really enjoyable and I sincerely hope that they get their own sequels as their really were some personalities that practically jumped off the page.
Home to You was such an enjoyable read and I was completely enthralled in this story from beginning to end. You can tell just how much the main characters love each other and yet at the same time you understand why they have yet to start a relationship. I would recommend this book to anyone looking for a refreshing and moving contemporary romance.
Truly beautiful.
I won't lie there are things that I would change about this book such as a Jake's girlfriend whom I wanted to strangle and throw in a fire, and also I really would have loved an epilogue that showed what happened to Katie and Jake. I found the secondary characters to be really enjoyable and I sincerely hope that they get their own sequels as their really were some personalities that practically jumped off the page.
Home to You was such an enjoyable read and I was completely enthralled in this story from beginning to end. You can tell just how much the main characters love each other and yet at the same time you understand why they have yet to start a relationship. I would recommend this book to anyone looking for a refreshing and moving contemporary romance.
Truly beautiful.
February 23, 2016
Kevin had lied and cheated and Katie and Kevin had been together for two years and he said some very hurtful things when he sees he can’t sway her to stay. She even had pictures to prove he's cheating. Katie quit her job and had an interview on Monday in L A The first boy Katie had was her brother Dave’s best friend Jake. Kadie had not seen Jake in three years and she was going to stay with him. But she wondered did Jake still think of her as his little sister?
I really liked the story and plot but at points seemed to drag some but I did continue on. I loved the characters especially Katie and all the twists and turns she went through. I really enjoyed Jake’s character also. I recommend.
I received an ARC of this story for an honest review.
I really liked the story and plot but at points seemed to drag some but I did continue on. I loved the characters especially Katie and all the twists and turns she went through. I really enjoyed Jake’s character also. I recommend.
I received an ARC of this story for an honest review.
August 9, 2015
Katie is back after a failed relationship. She’s taken in by Jake as a friend, and it remains unclear whether he wants more than friendship or not. On one hand, he keeps his current girlfriend with no signs of getting tired of her. On the other, he’s eye-candy for Katie and can never seem to find his shirt.
Katie both wants to keep her distance and see whether Jake feels anything or not, not wanting to make waves and spoil what Jake has with his current girlfriend. Sometimes the reader wants to slap Jake for being an idiot.
Go read this story. You’ll like it.
Katie both wants to keep her distance and see whether Jake feels anything or not, not wanting to make waves and spoil what Jake has with his current girlfriend. Sometimes the reader wants to slap Jake for being an idiot.
Go read this story. You’ll like it.
February 12, 2016
Such a good book to read. I was a little worried about Katie and how her life would end up. This book took me through her life journey, ups and downs.
February 14, 2019
Exasperating and dull
I always feel kind sorry for the heroes who have the bad fortune to fall in with heroines who jump to conclusions and whinge about how broken they are. In real life, such women are the proverbial ball and chain. They are needy and demanding, passive-aggressive, always suspicious. They slowly drain the life out of the poor bastards. It's no wonder men in that situation lose interest or wind up looking for someone else. In reality, a couple like this one doesn't have a chance in hell because no guy is going to put up with a lifetime of his partner's mistrust and having to prove himself over and over.
I often ask myself how I would react in a character's shoes or if I've ever known anyone who reacted similar to a character. It really blows my mind how often writers get human nature so wrong.
For instance, making a heroine pathetic and downtrodden does not make her sympathetic. There are many writers out there who need to take that fact into consideration and STOP creating female characters that wallow in self-pity and insecurity and who trip and fall or do stupid, awkward things in sight of the hero. That kind of thing DOESN'T make them likable or relatable! And heroines who repeatedly misconstrue what they see or hear and run away crying or continually throw up roadblocks for no reason are the worst. Strong women will not connect to these inferior counterparts.
But in addition to the irritating heroine and the gratuitous amount of 'loss' included so that we feel sorry for her, the problem with this book was that it was b.o.r.i.n.g.
It took too long to get to make any kind of point. The reader is led to believe that something has got to happen. Like...any moment now. Nothing happens other than the reader being subjected to pages of the heroine's pedantic, self-deprecative inner dialogue written in cloyingly emotional prose.
The heroine overthought every little thing and made a far bigger deal out of any situation than was warranted. It was all very tiresome and I wound up skimming a few parts just to get finished.
The hero seemed confused and frustrated a lot of the time and I wondered what would possess s man to keep trying with a woman like her. She wasn't strong and clearly needed a man to save her. She showed zero growth through the book and I'm sorry, but fictional story or not, a relationship like that is destined for failure.
No more of this series or its writer for me.
I always feel kind sorry for the heroes who have the bad fortune to fall in with heroines who jump to conclusions and whinge about how broken they are. In real life, such women are the proverbial ball and chain. They are needy and demanding, passive-aggressive, always suspicious. They slowly drain the life out of the poor bastards. It's no wonder men in that situation lose interest or wind up looking for someone else. In reality, a couple like this one doesn't have a chance in hell because no guy is going to put up with a lifetime of his partner's mistrust and having to prove himself over and over.
I often ask myself how I would react in a character's shoes or if I've ever known anyone who reacted similar to a character. It really blows my mind how often writers get human nature so wrong.
For instance, making a heroine pathetic and downtrodden does not make her sympathetic. There are many writers out there who need to take that fact into consideration and STOP creating female characters that wallow in self-pity and insecurity and who trip and fall or do stupid, awkward things in sight of the hero. That kind of thing DOESN'T make them likable or relatable! And heroines who repeatedly misconstrue what they see or hear and run away crying or continually throw up roadblocks for no reason are the worst. Strong women will not connect to these inferior counterparts.
But in addition to the irritating heroine and the gratuitous amount of 'loss' included so that we feel sorry for her, the problem with this book was that it was b.o.r.i.n.g.
It took too long to get to make any kind of point. The reader is led to believe that something has got to happen. Like...any moment now. Nothing happens other than the reader being subjected to pages of the heroine's pedantic, self-deprecative inner dialogue written in cloyingly emotional prose.
The heroine overthought every little thing and made a far bigger deal out of any situation than was warranted. It was all very tiresome and I wound up skimming a few parts just to get finished.
The hero seemed confused and frustrated a lot of the time and I wondered what would possess s man to keep trying with a woman like her. She wasn't strong and clearly needed a man to save her. She showed zero growth through the book and I'm sorry, but fictional story or not, a relationship like that is destined for failure.
No more of this series or its writer for me.
December 11, 2017
So this is what rock bottom feels like... she thought she experienced it before but she was wrong.
After discovering her boyfriend of over two years has been cheating on her, Katie has had enough. She ran from the only home she's ever known and the man she's been in love with for practically her whole life to get to this point. Now she has no choice but to go back to him for a new start once again.
Jake was her brother's best friend. He was supposed to be like another brother, but she never saw him that way. When hard times came, they always had each other's back. But when their world was shaken three years ago, the two parted ways and focused on their careers.
With no one else to turn to, she moves in with Jake who has become successful over the last couple of years. As much as they want to go back to the way they were before, Katie can't let herself become that vulnerable again. Her heart wouldn't be able to survive this time. Just being around Jake brings her toughest walls down even though he made it clear years ago that all they would be is friends.
While trying to find herself again, the spark that was always there tries to reignite, even with Jake's attempt to stop it.
Katie is having a hard time protecting her heart. Jake is having a hard time resisting Katie this time around. They can't avoid the topic any longer and have to choose whether to build a future together or go their separate ways once and for all.
****
"I thought we’d be together forever. But that was when I trusted people with my secrets—when I trusted them with my heart. When I was young, full of hopes and dreams, and so in love with the boy who lived next door. Jake Johnson."
"He never came to my bed again. Didn’t come into my room without knocking—didn’t seek me out at all. I was depressed, alone, and knew it was finally time to move on. "
"whether he wanted it or not, every piece of my bruised and battered heart was his. I just had to trust that he’d hold it tight. And not let it fall apart."
"I was mortified and embarrassed, certain that no boy would ever go through such trials for me, but my daddy always said that if the boy was worth it, he’d walk through hell just to hold my hand.”....
“I’d walk through hell just to hold your hand.”
After discovering her boyfriend of over two years has been cheating on her, Katie has had enough. She ran from the only home she's ever known and the man she's been in love with for practically her whole life to get to this point. Now she has no choice but to go back to him for a new start once again.
Jake was her brother's best friend. He was supposed to be like another brother, but she never saw him that way. When hard times came, they always had each other's back. But when their world was shaken three years ago, the two parted ways and focused on their careers.
With no one else to turn to, she moves in with Jake who has become successful over the last couple of years. As much as they want to go back to the way they were before, Katie can't let herself become that vulnerable again. Her heart wouldn't be able to survive this time. Just being around Jake brings her toughest walls down even though he made it clear years ago that all they would be is friends.
While trying to find herself again, the spark that was always there tries to reignite, even with Jake's attempt to stop it.
Katie is having a hard time protecting her heart. Jake is having a hard time resisting Katie this time around. They can't avoid the topic any longer and have to choose whether to build a future together or go their separate ways once and for all.
****
"I thought we’d be together forever. But that was when I trusted people with my secrets—when I trusted them with my heart. When I was young, full of hopes and dreams, and so in love with the boy who lived next door. Jake Johnson."
"He never came to my bed again. Didn’t come into my room without knocking—didn’t seek me out at all. I was depressed, alone, and knew it was finally time to move on. "
"whether he wanted it or not, every piece of my bruised and battered heart was his. I just had to trust that he’d hold it tight. And not let it fall apart."
"I was mortified and embarrassed, certain that no boy would ever go through such trials for me, but my daddy always said that if the boy was worth it, he’d walk through hell just to hold my hand.”....
“I’d walk through hell just to hold your hand.”
August 5, 2015
Title: Home to You
Author: Taylor Sullivan
Genre: Second Chance Romance, Adult Contemporary
Series or Standalone: Standalone Series (Suspicious Hearts #1)
Rating: 5 Stars
Review
Home to You is the first story in the Suspicious Hearts series by author Taylor Sullivan, and is told from the point of view of lead female protagonist Katie as she heads back to LA and her old friend/guard dog/protector, Jake, after her life hits the skids.
One of the things I enjoy most about being a blogger is getting to experience authors and stories that I might not ever have come across on my own travels. This is the case with Taylor Sullivan. I’ve never had the pleasure of reading any of her work before this, so I go in blind as to what to expect. And is much the case with a lot of the books I read, I come away pleasantly surprised, much the way I did here.
From the first page, you’re brought into Katie’s world. What she learns about the person she’d fallen in love with two years before and just what that guy does to her in the end. How he takes what she thought was a good thing between them, her happy ending, and turns it dirty. Breaking not only her heart in the process, but her spirit. His actions causing such a rift inside her that trusting even the people she knows deep down would never intentionally hurt her, is impossible.
Leaning on the boy that she had loved as kids, Jake, she follows his advice and goes home to LA to live with him while she gets back on her feet and starts a new life minus the cheating scumbag she left behind.
Dave (her brother), Jake, Justin (who you meet later in the story) and Katie, you learn from seeing things through her eyes, were thick as thieves as kids. All of them connected and on the road to what looked on the surface to be a pretty happy life together, the world being their oyster. At least it was until tragedy strikes and Katie loses a brother and Jake loses a best friend.
Feelings play a huge part in the past, Katie keeping hers hidden and Jake unsure of his. Overcome by grief after the loss, a moment is shared between the two. One that in the end, Jake pulls away from, and it tears Katie up so bad she moves away.
Flash forward three years. Three years that should have been enough time for them both to move on with their lives. For the feelings that may have been underlying when they were younger to have dulled enough for the both of them to co-exist together easily, fall back into old routines and just live, while Katie gets her life back on track. But three years that only seemed to make what was already there between them, that much more potent. Stronger. Only this time, you get to see it from Jake as well as Katie. You get to see that it’s not all one sided, even if at the time this takes place, Jake really isn’t in a position to make anything happen. While there was nothing that was blatantly obvious, words said aloud or things of that nature, it was all there in the simpler things. Body language, looks, actions toward other.
Enter Grace. Jake’s colleague-slash girlfriend.
This is the part of the story where things got a little sketchy for me. I wasn’t sure how I was going to react to the fact that you could easily see Jake had feelings for Katie, but he was with another woman. I didn’t want Katie being the other woman in a love triangle because after everything she’d already been through, how connected I was to her, she didn’t deserve any more pain. Losing her father, her brother, walking away from her old life only to be hurt by the one person she did reach out and give a part of herself to, it had to be enough.
And with the way Jake was build, through flashbacks and also in real time as they replayed their history together, I wanted him to be the same way he was with her then. I didn’t want him to be a jerk, and by the end of the story, I can honestly say, he really wasn’t a jerk. He was that younger guy that melted my heart with the way Katie remembered him. And nothing that he did was set to deliberately hurt her.
Sure, there were instances in which he did, and then others where she was also being kind of irrational, but it all felt very real to me.
Life, much like love isn’t pretty. You want it to be, but sometimes it has other plans for you. Katie coming home and him being in a relationship (if you can even call what they had a relationship), her swallowing down years of feelings and emotions so that she doesn’t rock the boat between him and Grace, it was all very real. Even Jake, god love him. Keeping up appearances with Grace when you can tell, through what you’re shown and word of mouth from the other characters that he’s just not feeling it with her and his heart left three years before when Katie did, it was all just so raw and real.
I was eager to get to the moment when both of these characters would just stop pretending and admit that it’s always been about each other. That Jake is at his best when he’s with Katie, that he’s been in love with her from the time they were kids and that he screwed up not telling her three years prior. And that Katie is at her best, her strongest, when she’s got Jake by her side.
They were so good for each other and when it all did finally come out and they got together, it was a beautiful thing for this reader to see. I cheered for them, I was rooting them on, and when the shit hit the proverbial fan, I was screaming at the both of them (and my kindle by default), to get their heads straight and realize what I had already figured out. They belong together. Everything in their lives will always lead back to the other.
I understood Katie’s fears. She’d been through the ringer already and wasn’t looking for a repeat and I was in awe of Jake’s ability to keep fighting despite it. Giving her time, but at the same time, not giving her too much time. Not walking away. Finally being the 30 year old man he became and standing up for what he wanted. Fighting for it until he got what he should have had from the start. Katie and her heart.
This was such a raw, real and emotionally gripping second chance romance, and it’s one I’m so glad I had the pleasure to read. It had my emotions all over the place but I don’t regret a second of it.
It was written very well, the pacing was great, the secondary characters, just like the main ones all had their spot, and filled their roles perfectly and by the time I turned the very last page, I believed in this couple. I could close the book knowing that in the end, no matter what life threw at them in the future, it would all work out because they had each other.
Thank you Taylor Sullivan, for writing such an emotionally gripping, yet amazingly beautiful and very real second chance romance. It was a pleasure to read, but more than that, experience.
Author: Taylor Sullivan
Genre: Second Chance Romance, Adult Contemporary
Series or Standalone: Standalone Series (Suspicious Hearts #1)
Rating: 5 Stars
Review
Home to You is the first story in the Suspicious Hearts series by author Taylor Sullivan, and is told from the point of view of lead female protagonist Katie as she heads back to LA and her old friend/guard dog/protector, Jake, after her life hits the skids.
One of the things I enjoy most about being a blogger is getting to experience authors and stories that I might not ever have come across on my own travels. This is the case with Taylor Sullivan. I’ve never had the pleasure of reading any of her work before this, so I go in blind as to what to expect. And is much the case with a lot of the books I read, I come away pleasantly surprised, much the way I did here.
From the first page, you’re brought into Katie’s world. What she learns about the person she’d fallen in love with two years before and just what that guy does to her in the end. How he takes what she thought was a good thing between them, her happy ending, and turns it dirty. Breaking not only her heart in the process, but her spirit. His actions causing such a rift inside her that trusting even the people she knows deep down would never intentionally hurt her, is impossible.
Leaning on the boy that she had loved as kids, Jake, she follows his advice and goes home to LA to live with him while she gets back on her feet and starts a new life minus the cheating scumbag she left behind.
Dave (her brother), Jake, Justin (who you meet later in the story) and Katie, you learn from seeing things through her eyes, were thick as thieves as kids. All of them connected and on the road to what looked on the surface to be a pretty happy life together, the world being their oyster. At least it was until tragedy strikes and Katie loses a brother and Jake loses a best friend.
Feelings play a huge part in the past, Katie keeping hers hidden and Jake unsure of his. Overcome by grief after the loss, a moment is shared between the two. One that in the end, Jake pulls away from, and it tears Katie up so bad she moves away.
Flash forward three years. Three years that should have been enough time for them both to move on with their lives. For the feelings that may have been underlying when they were younger to have dulled enough for the both of them to co-exist together easily, fall back into old routines and just live, while Katie gets her life back on track. But three years that only seemed to make what was already there between them, that much more potent. Stronger. Only this time, you get to see it from Jake as well as Katie. You get to see that it’s not all one sided, even if at the time this takes place, Jake really isn’t in a position to make anything happen. While there was nothing that was blatantly obvious, words said aloud or things of that nature, it was all there in the simpler things. Body language, looks, actions toward other.
Enter Grace. Jake’s colleague-slash girlfriend.
This is the part of the story where things got a little sketchy for me. I wasn’t sure how I was going to react to the fact that you could easily see Jake had feelings for Katie, but he was with another woman. I didn’t want Katie being the other woman in a love triangle because after everything she’d already been through, how connected I was to her, she didn’t deserve any more pain. Losing her father, her brother, walking away from her old life only to be hurt by the one person she did reach out and give a part of herself to, it had to be enough.
And with the way Jake was build, through flashbacks and also in real time as they replayed their history together, I wanted him to be the same way he was with her then. I didn’t want him to be a jerk, and by the end of the story, I can honestly say, he really wasn’t a jerk. He was that younger guy that melted my heart with the way Katie remembered him. And nothing that he did was set to deliberately hurt her.
Sure, there were instances in which he did, and then others where she was also being kind of irrational, but it all felt very real to me.
Life, much like love isn’t pretty. You want it to be, but sometimes it has other plans for you. Katie coming home and him being in a relationship (if you can even call what they had a relationship), her swallowing down years of feelings and emotions so that she doesn’t rock the boat between him and Grace, it was all very real. Even Jake, god love him. Keeping up appearances with Grace when you can tell, through what you’re shown and word of mouth from the other characters that he’s just not feeling it with her and his heart left three years before when Katie did, it was all just so raw and real.
I was eager to get to the moment when both of these characters would just stop pretending and admit that it’s always been about each other. That Jake is at his best when he’s with Katie, that he’s been in love with her from the time they were kids and that he screwed up not telling her three years prior. And that Katie is at her best, her strongest, when she’s got Jake by her side.
They were so good for each other and when it all did finally come out and they got together, it was a beautiful thing for this reader to see. I cheered for them, I was rooting them on, and when the shit hit the proverbial fan, I was screaming at the both of them (and my kindle by default), to get their heads straight and realize what I had already figured out. They belong together. Everything in their lives will always lead back to the other.
I understood Katie’s fears. She’d been through the ringer already and wasn’t looking for a repeat and I was in awe of Jake’s ability to keep fighting despite it. Giving her time, but at the same time, not giving her too much time. Not walking away. Finally being the 30 year old man he became and standing up for what he wanted. Fighting for it until he got what he should have had from the start. Katie and her heart.
This was such a raw, real and emotionally gripping second chance romance, and it’s one I’m so glad I had the pleasure to read. It had my emotions all over the place but I don’t regret a second of it.
It was written very well, the pacing was great, the secondary characters, just like the main ones all had their spot, and filled their roles perfectly and by the time I turned the very last page, I believed in this couple. I could close the book knowing that in the end, no matter what life threw at them in the future, it would all work out because they had each other.
Thank you Taylor Sullivan, for writing such an emotionally gripping, yet amazingly beautiful and very real second chance romance. It was a pleasure to read, but more than that, experience.
September 28, 2017
This is the second book I've read from this author and it was just as good as the first one. The drama, the angst, the passion, the love... it was a fantastic story and two really wonderful characters.
Katie is coming out of a long-term relationship after her boyfriend was found having affairs with multiple people. In her haste to get away, Katie runs home to Jake, her deceased brothers best friend, and secret love of her life. Katie has fought hard to keep her feelings for Jake a secret her entire life. He doesn't do relationships and he doesn't want her. However, after a three year absence, Katie returns home to find that Jake is a changed man, he does do relationships, just with someone else. Jake has fought against his feelings for Katie for many years. As his best friends little sister, she is completely off limits. After the death of Dave, something he feels responsible for, Jake and Katie share a kiss that ends in heartbreak and has Katie moving several hours away and them not speaking for three years. Now that Jake has Katie back, he must decide whether he is the right man for her or watch her move on with someone else.
The plot was fantastic, full of lots of drama and angst, as well as passion, banter and excellent side characters. Both Katie and Jake were likeable characters and their chemistry really had you cheering for them to get their HEA. I can't wait to get started on John's book, he was hilarious in this one so I'm excited :)
Katie is coming out of a long-term relationship after her boyfriend was found having affairs with multiple people. In her haste to get away, Katie runs home to Jake, her deceased brothers best friend, and secret love of her life. Katie has fought hard to keep her feelings for Jake a secret her entire life. He doesn't do relationships and he doesn't want her. However, after a three year absence, Katie returns home to find that Jake is a changed man, he does do relationships, just with someone else. Jake has fought against his feelings for Katie for many years. As his best friends little sister, she is completely off limits. After the death of Dave, something he feels responsible for, Jake and Katie share a kiss that ends in heartbreak and has Katie moving several hours away and them not speaking for three years. Now that Jake has Katie back, he must decide whether he is the right man for her or watch her move on with someone else.
The plot was fantastic, full of lots of drama and angst, as well as passion, banter and excellent side characters. Both Katie and Jake were likeable characters and their chemistry really had you cheering for them to get their HEA. I can't wait to get started on John's book, he was hilarious in this one so I'm excited :)
May 1, 2019
2.5 stars
Was fine. The characters were a bit annoying because their problems went a bit wild in their head, though after a little stop in reading it I can get it. It adds an element of realism.
Though it is a romance novel there was a moment I wasn't completely sure they will end up together. And that doubt is very impressive also because of the name of the book.
I wanted more relationship, more care, more intimacy, more love, and I found myself a bit disappointed. Especially after I LOVED Sullivan's other book: "The Boy I Hate".
I liked this method of her to write about people having history and showing it, through flashbacks, through the familiarity for eachother. This adds a lot of interest, in my opinion, base, and substance.
But through and through, I couldn't throw myself on the story, it was fine.
Was fine. The characters were a bit annoying because their problems went a bit wild in their head, though after a little stop in reading it I can get it. It adds an element of realism.
Though it is a romance novel there was a moment I wasn't completely sure they will end up together. And that doubt is very impressive also because of the name of the book.
I wanted more relationship, more care, more intimacy, more love, and I found myself a bit disappointed. Especially after I LOVED Sullivan's other book: "The Boy I Hate".
I liked this method of her to write about people having history and showing it, through flashbacks, through the familiarity for eachother. This adds a lot of interest, in my opinion, base, and substance.
But through and through, I couldn't throw myself on the story, it was fine.
October 9, 2019
This story felt meh to me I do not know I did not like that Katie was so dumb not to know your boyfriend has cheated on you. Everyone around her knew he was cheating on her. I would not only remove the boyfriend but find new people to be around as well. Friends are suppose to tell you these things even if you do not want to hear them. Plus you just know when someone is unfaithful to you. So Katie runs back to the person she always runs to her brother's best friend Jake. Jake feels guilty for the loss of Katie's brother he blames himself for his death. Anyways with this much going on Kate ends up staying with Jake and his new girlfriend which always is messy when one or more have feelings for the other. This was a quick read but I do not know it just rubbed me the wrong way to make the main character so dumb to not know it ires me when authors make women so naive.
February 14, 2018
Good book
Meh. Good read but Not anything too dramatic or overly exciting. It was what I consider an Ok book. Every now and then, a reader just needs something down the middle and this book is it. It has a good story line, interesting characters, but just kinda falls flat in content. I wished up so much more in my imagination. And, I thought for sure Grace was going to stick Katie with the cost of the party but the author never really followed up with that purchase/ signage part. Anyway, it’s a good one for those who appreciate a decent story.
Meh. Good read but Not anything too dramatic or overly exciting. It was what I consider an Ok book. Every now and then, a reader just needs something down the middle and this book is it. It has a good story line, interesting characters, but just kinda falls flat in content. I wished up so much more in my imagination. And, I thought for sure Grace was going to stick Katie with the cost of the party but the author never really followed up with that purchase/ signage part. Anyway, it’s a good one for those who appreciate a decent story.
May 8, 2018
I really don’t know what to think about this book. At times it was good, and other times it was just bad. Jake and Kate annoyed me more than made me cheer for them, in the begging I loved the whole “childhood friends that loved each other”, but they sounded as spoiled people with a lot of issues. And the whole “ex boyfriend that was scum and wanted to kill her” was just a bad storyline, if they focused on that or it gave the story more meaning I would accept, but it just didn’t do anything for the plot. I really think it was a book with a lot things thrown in without much sense.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 7, 2018
I can’t even!!!!
I love Taylor Sullivan!!!! Where has she been my whole life?! I started with the Boy I Hate and three days later I finished reading all her books! I couldn’t put this one down! I loved loved loved it! I truly wish I could begin to explain how much I loved them. Anyway this book is amazing the love story is so cute and it’s just one of those books that helps you believe in love again! Haha am I exaggerating? I can’t wait to read more of her books I recommend all of them be careful because once you start there’s no putting them down!
I love Taylor Sullivan!!!! Where has she been my whole life?! I started with the Boy I Hate and three days later I finished reading all her books! I couldn’t put this one down! I loved loved loved it! I truly wish I could begin to explain how much I loved them. Anyway this book is amazing the love story is so cute and it’s just one of those books that helps you believe in love again! Haha am I exaggerating? I can’t wait to read more of her books I recommend all of them be careful because once you start there’s no putting them down!
November 8, 2017
3.9
Drama drama drama
Katie is a tangle of insecurities that Jake has to unravel. Katie goes through her days second guessing not just her feelings, her actions, her decisions, her past and future, but every one else’s. It’s nonstop drama to the end with no one clear climax that defines the conflict between Katie and Jake. Jake sees Katie as the strongest woman he’s ever known. I respectfully disagree.
Drama drama drama
Katie is a tangle of insecurities that Jake has to unravel. Katie goes through her days second guessing not just her feelings, her actions, her decisions, her past and future, but every one else’s. It’s nonstop drama to the end with no one clear climax that defines the conflict between Katie and Jake. Jake sees Katie as the strongest woman he’s ever known. I respectfully disagree.
February 14, 2018
This is another Amazon Prime win! I literally devoured this book in less than 24 hours. I don't know what it was but I was sucked into his book from the beginning and didn't want to put it down. I also cried multiple time throughout this book. I really could feel for Katie and what she was going through. I don't know why I enjoy this type of book so much. I have been flying through the last couple of books I've read and I am so happy. These Amazon Prime books have just been doing it for me.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 117 reviews