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The Raeven Sisters #1
Every Time He Leaves
I'm different now. I won't be that girl again. I'm in control. I'm the one who's going to leave him wishing he'd given me his everything when he had the chance...
Lana Raeven and Jarek Dean shared a night of passion, but the next morning, she woke up alone. Nine years later, Lana works as a successful event coordinator for a prestigious company. Bold and confident in every area but love, she's never recovered from Jarek’s abandonment. However, a chance encounter with her former lover grants her an opportunity to take back her power.
Rather than chastising him for his cruelty, she plays unfazed and invites him back into her life. Using her ingenuity and sensuality as weapons, she draws him in with the intention of destroying him as he once destroyed her. But her plan for revenge isn’t as simple as she initially believed, for the more time she spends with Jarek, the more she’s reminded of why she loved him. And if she isn’t careful, she could lose him all over again.
Lana Raeven and Jarek Dean shared a night of passion, but the next morning, she woke up alone. Nine years later, Lana works as a successful event coordinator for a prestigious company. Bold and confident in every area but love, she's never recovered from Jarek’s abandonment. However, a chance encounter with her former lover grants her an opportunity to take back her power.
Rather than chastising him for his cruelty, she plays unfazed and invites him back into her life. Using her ingenuity and sensuality as weapons, she draws him in with the intention of destroying him as he once destroyed her. But her plan for revenge isn’t as simple as she initially believed, for the more time she spends with Jarek, the more she’s reminded of why she loved him. And if she isn’t careful, she could lose him all over again.
248 pages, Kindle Edition
First published September 25, 2015
2 people are currently reading
45 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 81 reviews
October 11, 2015
*ACR copy in exchange for an honest review*
★★★Barley-made-it to 3 stars★★★
Oh lordly,where do I begin ? The plot ? The characters ? The ratings ?
The Plot as mentioned in the summery:Lana Raeven and Jarek Dean shared a night of passion,but the next morning, she woke up alone. Nine years later,Lana accidentally runs into Jarek at a fundraiser and decides to have a little fun & teach him a lesson on 'How it feels to have your heart broken.'
The Personal interpretation of the plot: To me Every Time He Leaves was the Cinderella plot-line redone modernly down to the 'T'. You've got the vindictivestep-mom,who thrives on rubbing noses with the rich and making Cinderella's life miserable & two sorry excuses of step-sisters too busy struggling with their own issues to help poor Cinderella out.
This story basically starts off AFTER 'Cinderella' & her 'Prince' have their 'magical' night at the ball,the only difference here being, that the prince didn't bother to come back and rescue her,even after she had left him her glass slipper.How dare he right? *Note the sarcasm*.So Cinderella turns into a resentful young women who doesn't believe in love and basically never moves on.
My thoughts on the characters: Lana,the heroine was really very hard for me to like.I get the fact that she earned the right to be distrustful and hurt after what happened that night.But the vengeful streak that character carried was not something I could abide with,maybe be cause I'm just personally not like that.So I found it really hard to connect with her character at an emotional level and really get lost in the story.
I felt like the first 50% of the book was just a pity-party she kept throwing in her honor.A party NOBODY wanted to attend not even me.
And Jarek the hero ? I wish I could say he was what saved the rating for me...but sadly no.
To me,It was actually the family drama and the moments she shared with her sister that bought in some structure to the plot-line which I appreciated.I wish I had seen more of that throughout the book instead of it all being squeezed into the last 30%, maybe then,this book would have pulled a higher rating out of me than a 3.
Would I recommend the read ?
Even though this book had its moments ultimately it just wasn't a memorable read to me.
★★★Barley-made-it to 3 stars★★★
Oh lordly,where do I begin ? The plot ? The characters ? The ratings ?
The Plot as mentioned in the summery:Lana Raeven and Jarek Dean shared a night of passion,but the next morning, she woke up alone. Nine years later,Lana accidentally runs into Jarek at a fundraiser and decides to have a little fun & teach him a lesson on 'How it feels to have your heart broken.'
The Personal interpretation of the plot: To me Every Time He Leaves was the Cinderella plot-line redone modernly down to the 'T'. You've got the vindictive
This story basically starts off AFTER 'Cinderella' & her 'Prince' have their 'magical' night at the ball,the only difference here being, that the prince didn't bother to come back and rescue her,even after she had left him her glass slipper.
My thoughts on the characters: Lana,the heroine was really very hard for me to like.I get the fact that she earned the right to be distrustful and hurt after what happened that night.But the vengeful streak that character carried was not something I could abide with,maybe be cause I'm just personally not like that.So I found it really hard to connect with her character at an emotional level and really get lost in the story.
I felt like the first 50% of the book was just a pity-party she kept throwing in her honor.A party NOBODY wanted to attend not even me.
And Jarek the hero ? I wish I could say he was what saved the rating for me...but sadly no.
To me,It was actually the family drama and the moments she shared with her sister that bought in some structure to the plot-line which I appreciated.I wish I had seen more of that throughout the book instead of it all being squeezed into the last 30%, maybe then,this book would have pulled a higher rating out of me than a 3.
Would I recommend the read ?
Even though this book had its moments ultimately it just wasn't a memorable read to me.
May 9, 2017
The book starts with a charity event organized by Lana and held by her mother.
(The Bitch)
It's at the charity that we are going to meet Kelsey Lana's selfish, gold-digger divorced sister. She is the elder and the most carless and hateful character I have ever encountered.
(God how I hated her)
And Janet, the younger sister and her husband Kirk.
(The Asshole)
During the event a handsome guy arrives. It was nobody but Jarek "the jerk".
(I totaly forgive him by the way)
He left Lana at her lowest moments one day after her Dad passed away and of course after getting to her pants and spending a night of passion and heat with her...
Jarek decided to just leave without even saying goodbye. He is back after a whole decade with a tailored suit and a big bank account.
And you know what??!
He was willing to start where they left. I don't get the whole sex revenge thing.
COME ON Lana!!!!
You should have stopped him halfway and made him suffer blue balls decease and frustration because he left you without saying a word!!!
Well, she didn't and here you know that love is a son of a bitch!
So many things happened and so many hidden secrets revealed.
It was a lovely story full of passion and though the heroine's life was successful it was messed up.
Would I recommend this book?
Yes, I would.
Thank you NetGalley for the provided copy
(The Bitch)
It's at the charity that we are going to meet Kelsey Lana's selfish, gold-digger divorced sister. She is the elder and the most carless and hateful character I have ever encountered.
(God how I hated her)
And Janet, the younger sister and her husband Kirk.
(The Asshole)
During the event a handsome guy arrives. It was nobody but Jarek "the jerk".
(I totaly forgive him by the way)
He left Lana at her lowest moments one day after her Dad passed away and of course after getting to her pants and spending a night of passion and heat with her...
Jarek decided to just leave without even saying goodbye. He is back after a whole decade with a tailored suit and a big bank account.
And you know what??!
He was willing to start where they left. I don't get the whole sex revenge thing.
COME ON Lana!!!!
You should have stopped him halfway and made him suffer blue balls decease and frustration because he left you without saying a word!!!
Well, she didn't and here you know that love is a son of a bitch!
So many things happened and so many hidden secrets revealed.
It was a lovely story full of passion and though the heroine's life was successful it was messed up.
Would I recommend this book?
Yes, I would.
Thank you NetGalley for the provided copy
February 5, 2016
Original Review @ Naomi’s Reading Palace
Every Time He Leaves is Anna Karington's debut novel and I thought it was a good introduction to her work. Told from Lana’s perspective, we journey with her as she tries to seek revenge on the guy that broke her heart and left her right when she needed him most.
Lana is quite the reserved character. When she first sees Jarek again, she tries to act indifferent even though she is freaking out on the inside. Knowing they had a strong connection when they were younger makes it hard to face him again. I liked how she thought she could be the stronger person second time round, and I knew it would backfire on her.
Jarek was a great character, after all the time apart I could see that he only had eyes for Lana. He has worked hard to become a better person for her and is now quite the successful business man.
I enjoyed watching the relationship between Jarek and Lana rekindle. It took some time for them to work through the issues from their past, but when they did they were scorching between the sheets!
Lana's sister Kelsey and mother are not characters that I liked. They prefer to live the life of those with money and prestige and use men for their own gain. They treated Lana poorly and I really couldn't stand them. Janet was a better character, but was fighting her own demons and I was glad that Lana and Janet were there for one another and their relationship strengthened again.
It was a solid introduction to Anna's work. I really liked the story, but I felt it all played out without any major twists. A lot of the twists were a bit too obvious and I predicted where the book was heading. I am curious about a few other characters and hope they get their own books so I can understand them better.
Complimentary copy provided by the Author in exchange for an honest review.
Every Time He Leaves is Anna Karington's debut novel and I thought it was a good introduction to her work. Told from Lana’s perspective, we journey with her as she tries to seek revenge on the guy that broke her heart and left her right when she needed him most.
Lana is quite the reserved character. When she first sees Jarek again, she tries to act indifferent even though she is freaking out on the inside. Knowing they had a strong connection when they were younger makes it hard to face him again. I liked how she thought she could be the stronger person second time round, and I knew it would backfire on her.
Jarek was a great character, after all the time apart I could see that he only had eyes for Lana. He has worked hard to become a better person for her and is now quite the successful business man.
I enjoyed watching the relationship between Jarek and Lana rekindle. It took some time for them to work through the issues from their past, but when they did they were scorching between the sheets!
Lana's sister Kelsey and mother are not characters that I liked. They prefer to live the life of those with money and prestige and use men for their own gain. They treated Lana poorly and I really couldn't stand them. Janet was a better character, but was fighting her own demons and I was glad that Lana and Janet were there for one another and their relationship strengthened again.
It was a solid introduction to Anna's work. I really liked the story, but I felt it all played out without any major twists. A lot of the twists were a bit too obvious and I predicted where the book was heading. I am curious about a few other characters and hope they get their own books so I can understand them better.
Complimentary copy provided by the Author in exchange for an honest review.
January 31, 2016
ARC received for review
1.5 stars
It was just so boring. I don't know how I made it all the way through it. Yes, I do...speed reading and most of that was during the bedroom scenes (who wants to read about having to use lube every time). Jarek was boring, but he was pretty strong. Lana and her family are seriously messed up. I will eventually read the second sister since I have an arc for it too. The third sister I couldn't care less if she ever got a HEA. The epilogue saved it from being one star.
1.5 stars
It was just so boring. I don't know how I made it all the way through it. Yes, I do...speed reading and most of that was during the bedroom scenes (who wants to read about having to use lube every time). Jarek was boring, but he was pretty strong. Lana and her family are seriously messed up. I will eventually read the second sister since I have an arc for it too. The third sister I couldn't care less if she ever got a HEA. The epilogue saved it from being one star.
June 27, 2017
First things first … I never thought that I would hate the words condom and lube.
I am having a serious love/hate relationship with this book. I like the story as a whole but I am so disliking the heroine. Lana is just really, really negative … about herself, the hero, her life … just everything. Every time there is some negative observation on her part, as the reader, I just get more frustrated and pissed off. That’s just it, there is so much negativity and self-hate that it even resonates in the intimate scenes between the main characters. Actually, the intimate scenes weren't that appealing and seemed to be space fillers.
Our heroine, Lana is dealing with loss and abandonment issues. Not to mention, a gold digging opportunistic mother. As mentioned before, Lana is dealing with the loss of her father and soon after the love of her life. Since the two must important people in her life are gone, Lana becomes consumed with the idea that every negative thing that she has ever encountered is her fault. If everything is her fault, then naturally she is deserving of any ill treatment that comes her way. This aspect of her character was sad and irritating all at the same time. The reader spends over 90% of the book having to deal with her constant negativity and self doubt.
Jarek Dean, the male lead for this tale is okay with the typical good looks of most leading males. While reading, the reader never really had a chance to gain his point of view. A lot of the encounters between the two leads was very one-sided; the heroine is in her head about how hurt she is and the hero is silent or getting the lube. The best part of the book was saved for last. The drama between Lana and her mother or Lana and her older sister really gained my interest. . Honestly, I would have loved to see more of these interactions because seriously mom is a real piece of work.
Though the heroine isn't my favorite, the author didn't a good job of getting me involved with the main character, even though I spent a lot of time rolling my eyes and thinking not again with this is my fault or this is what I deserve.
Thank you to Netgalley for providing this ARC in exchange for an honest review.
I am having a serious love/hate relationship with this book. I like the story as a whole but I am so disliking the heroine. Lana is just really, really negative … about herself, the hero, her life … just everything. Every time there is some negative observation on her part, as the reader, I just get more frustrated and pissed off. That’s just it, there is so much negativity and self-hate that it even resonates in the intimate scenes between the main characters. Actually, the intimate scenes weren't that appealing and seemed to be space fillers.
Our heroine, Lana is dealing with loss and abandonment issues. Not to mention, a gold digging opportunistic mother. As mentioned before, Lana is dealing with the loss of her father and soon after the love of her life. Since the two must important people in her life are gone, Lana becomes consumed with the idea that every negative thing that she has ever encountered is her fault. If everything is her fault, then naturally she is deserving of any ill treatment that comes her way. This aspect of her character was sad and irritating all at the same time. The reader spends over 90% of the book having to deal with her constant negativity and self doubt.
Jarek Dean, the male lead for this tale is okay with the typical good looks of most leading males. While reading, the reader never really had a chance to gain his point of view. A lot of the encounters between the two leads was very one-sided; the heroine is in her head about how hurt she is and the hero is silent or getting the lube. The best part of the book was saved for last. The drama between Lana and her mother or Lana and her older sister really gained my interest. . Honestly, I would have loved to see more of these interactions because seriously mom is a real piece of work.
Though the heroine isn't my favorite, the author didn't a good job of getting me involved with the main character, even though I spent a lot of time rolling my eyes and thinking not again with this is my fault or this is what I deserve.
Thank you to Netgalley for providing this ARC in exchange for an honest review.
October 11, 2015
The story is narrated through the eyes of Lana and it begins at party, her mother is having. Lana has two sisters, Janet and Kelsey. Janet is married and Kelsey is recently divorced. While cleaning up a mess her younger sister had made, she runs into Jarek and her heart drops. Jarek was a boy that Lana had loved since she was fourteen and he had broken her heart, but simply disappearing one day. Apparently, Jarek has come back to town for business and she is surprised to find out that he has found success, while away. Although, she wants to hate him more than anything, she finds herself drawn to him and they end up sharing a night together.
As the story goes on, she finds out that her sister Kelsey is interested in Jarek and that they have gone out. She is angry at herself for caving into her desire for him, knowing it was wrong and also berates herself for being jealous of her sister and Jarek. After all, what happened years ago, between her and Jarek is over right? Or is it?
When I first started this book, I found myself rolling my eyes at the wordy, writing of the author. Halfway through the first chapter, I seriously contemplated on dumping this story….boy I’m a glad I didn’t.
My favorite scenes of the book were when her sister Janet got drunk and the reason why they nicknamed her Dammit Janet.
I turn to see Janet gulping down another shot. She sets the glass next to two others.
“Dammit Janet.”
I dash across the bar. When she spots me, she giggles. “Hee hee. Am I bad?”
This book had everything, family drama, humor, steamy sex scenes and a lot of emotion. I would recommend this read to anyone and everyone.
As the story goes on, she finds out that her sister Kelsey is interested in Jarek and that they have gone out. She is angry at herself for caving into her desire for him, knowing it was wrong and also berates herself for being jealous of her sister and Jarek. After all, what happened years ago, between her and Jarek is over right? Or is it?
When I first started this book, I found myself rolling my eyes at the wordy, writing of the author. Halfway through the first chapter, I seriously contemplated on dumping this story….boy I’m a glad I didn’t.
My favorite scenes of the book were when her sister Janet got drunk and the reason why they nicknamed her Dammit Janet.
I turn to see Janet gulping down another shot. She sets the glass next to two others.
“Dammit Janet.”
I dash across the bar. When she spots me, she giggles. “Hee hee. Am I bad?”
This book had everything, family drama, humor, steamy sex scenes and a lot of emotion. I would recommend this read to anyone and everyone.
July 10, 2016
***I received a copy of this book from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review***
This is the first book I've read from this author and it's not bad considering it is her debut book.
I did think that the length of time between Lana and Jarek's night of passion (9 years) was considerably too long. I would think by then time should have healed Lana and she should have outgrown her need for revenge. I'm not sure I'm too much a fan of books where after reading the blurb we, the readers, already are in the mindset where we know the heroine is a bitter woman.
I think the writing could be tuned a bit and be a little less wordy and the plot was almost predictable, though I did love the hot, sexy scenes! I'm just not sure I felt empathy towards Lana even though the story was from her POV and I thought that Jarek was pretty much a grade A jerk. I really hated the mother and older sister and the younger sister was pretty laughable. This did have a Cinderalla feel to it, though I don't think it really lived up to the fairy tale.
It's possible I may continue to read the rest of the series depending on the cost of the book with the hope that her writing gets better.
November 14, 2015
I received a copy of this for free through NetGalley
I'm different now. I won't be that girl again. I'm in control. I'm the one who's going to leave him wishing he'd given me his everything when he had the chance...
This was recommended to me so I jumped on NetGalley and gave it a quick download - unfortunately it ended up being a non-event for me.
I have no issues with the writing in itself as I did find that it was pretty easy to read however the plot was predictable and the characters had little substance. I also have no issues reading graphic sex scenes but I did find that they popped up too often to fill obvious plot holes and didn't really add to the dynamic of the story.
Like a lot of other people, I did find reprieve when drunk Janet was on the scene as she was quite hilarious.
If you like a good combination of angst, steamy sex scenes, humour and drama, this might be worth a look.
I'm different now. I won't be that girl again. I'm in control. I'm the one who's going to leave him wishing he'd given me his everything when he had the chance...
This was recommended to me so I jumped on NetGalley and gave it a quick download - unfortunately it ended up being a non-event for me.
I have no issues with the writing in itself as I did find that it was pretty easy to read however the plot was predictable and the characters had little substance. I also have no issues reading graphic sex scenes but I did find that they popped up too often to fill obvious plot holes and didn't really add to the dynamic of the story.
Like a lot of other people, I did find reprieve when drunk Janet was on the scene as she was quite hilarious.
If you like a good combination of angst, steamy sex scenes, humour and drama, this might be worth a look.
October 23, 2015
DNF at 27%
I requested to read this book on Netgalley, and they generously allowed me to do so. The premise of the story is really good, and I love a gritty second chance love story, but Every Time He Leaves just left me feeling blah and more than a little frustrated. I absolutely could not stand Lana, and I don't feel I learned enough about Jarek to even form an opinion. Up to the 27% mark I would not have categorized him as an alpha male as other reviewers have.
Here is a list of the major problems I had with this story:
1) Lana. Pretty much everything about her.
2) Too much narrative, not enough dialogue.
3) Complete lack of chemistry between Lana and Jarek.
4) Sex scene (I only read one) was awkward and not even a bit sexy.
5) VCRs? Does anyone still have one? Okay, fine. I have one, but I certainly don't USE it.
6) Lana. I cannot overstate how much I disliked her.
I requested to read this book on Netgalley, and they generously allowed me to do so. The premise of the story is really good, and I love a gritty second chance love story, but Every Time He Leaves just left me feeling blah and more than a little frustrated. I absolutely could not stand Lana, and I don't feel I learned enough about Jarek to even form an opinion. Up to the 27% mark I would not have categorized him as an alpha male as other reviewers have.
Here is a list of the major problems I had with this story:
1) Lana. Pretty much everything about her.
2) Too much narrative, not enough dialogue.
3) Complete lack of chemistry between Lana and Jarek.
4) Sex scene (I only read one) was awkward and not even a bit sexy.
5) VCRs? Does anyone still have one? Okay, fine. I have one, but I certainly don't USE it.
6) Lana. I cannot overstate how much I disliked her.
December 31, 2015
A great second-chance novel. I love how Jerek really wants to fix his mistakes. But that those mistakes weren't all his. Lana's been everyone's pawn for years, and seeing her grow out of that makes this novel fantastic. Brilliantly written and very hard to put down.
dnf
March 14, 2016DNF @ 20%
I'm sorry. I really did try but I just couldn't connect with the heroine of this story. It just felt like one big pity party and well I just didn't want to read anymore. Maybe it does get better at some point, but I can't go to really find out when that point would be
I'm sorry. I really did try but I just couldn't connect with the heroine of this story. It just felt like one big pity party and well I just didn't want to read anymore. Maybe it does get better at some point, but I can't go to really find out when that point would be
February 8, 2016
Every Time He Leaves" the first book in the Raeven sisters series, she gets the series off to a pretty good start. Ms Karington not only gives us Lana and Jarek's story but she does a fine job of laying out some background on Lana's family also . Such a good job that I hate Lana's sister Kelsey and her mother deeply and her sister Janet I just plain feel sorry for! Ms Karington evoked some pretty strong feelings from me!
Enough of that though this is Lana and Jarek's story. Jarek was young homeless teenager that her community and charity minded father took into their home, when Lana was a teenager; these two became fats friends and formed a bond, Friday movie night , thick shake treats and quiet times at the lake. Jarek went from being a homeless petty their to a considerate. And helpful young man as part of the family. So when Lana's father passed and Jarek was their for Lana; but holding her while she cried led to intimacy , intact that a young Lana in love with a young Jarek was happy about, she thought he loved her also until he was gone from the families life the next morning when she woke .
Nine years later and Lana is a party planner working for one of the largest firms and currently handling one of her snobby mothers fund raisers and her so carefully put together life is about to take a fumble when Jarek Dean walks in , dressed to the nines and successful and acting like nothing ever happened; Lana has hurt for so many years She has never been able to let go of the pain of him not being I. Bed with her the next morning, never mind leaving all together without saying goodbye or even calling and keeping in touch, but Jarek does not seem to be deterred he wants to spend time with her. so now is her time , create new memories with him to cherish and relish, then walk away from him. payback!
"Who is this wicked woman within me? I can't claim ignorance, because I know her too well. She's the bitter, resentful creature Jarek created—a monster that has dwelt within me since that tragic day. And now Victor Frankenstein has returned to face the beast he gave life to."
Jarek, left and became a successful entrepreneur , a billionaire in his own rights,the man he wanted to be for Lana, and to spite all his attempts at trying to tell her how he feels for her, showing her with every sizzling touch and kiss .
"“Lana, I care about you so much.” He thrusts so hard I gasp, but I can't tell if the gasp is from the surprise of his movements or his words. Why would he say that? It kills me, because I’ve wanted to hear these words so badly for so long, and now that they're offered freely, it seems cruel. Surely he's just caught up in the moment, confused as men sometimes are in the middle of sex. It doesn't mean anything to him"
The teenage Lana living inside of the adult Lana can not let go of the fear of him leaving again.
and too stubborn to tell him how he broke her heart back then. Lana keeps sabotaging her second chance, their second chance to the point that it became a bit of a pity party and I wanted to drop kick her also.
However as more is revealed Lana eventually redeems herself from the chapters long pity party and the story comes around to a pretty decent happy ending. By the end of this book just plain feel sorry for her younger sister Janet and am looking forward to her story and a hopeful happy ending for her, and far as her self centered sister Kelsey and equally as self centered, self important mother I can only hope they are redeemable .
Arc graciously provided via Netgalley for an honest review.
Enough of that though this is Lana and Jarek's story. Jarek was young homeless teenager that her community and charity minded father took into their home, when Lana was a teenager; these two became fats friends and formed a bond, Friday movie night , thick shake treats and quiet times at the lake. Jarek went from being a homeless petty their to a considerate. And helpful young man as part of the family. So when Lana's father passed and Jarek was their for Lana; but holding her while she cried led to intimacy , intact that a young Lana in love with a young Jarek was happy about, she thought he loved her also until he was gone from the families life the next morning when she woke .
Nine years later and Lana is a party planner working for one of the largest firms and currently handling one of her snobby mothers fund raisers and her so carefully put together life is about to take a fumble when Jarek Dean walks in , dressed to the nines and successful and acting like nothing ever happened; Lana has hurt for so many years She has never been able to let go of the pain of him not being I. Bed with her the next morning, never mind leaving all together without saying goodbye or even calling and keeping in touch, but Jarek does not seem to be deterred he wants to spend time with her. so now is her time , create new memories with him to cherish and relish, then walk away from him. payback!
"Who is this wicked woman within me? I can't claim ignorance, because I know her too well. She's the bitter, resentful creature Jarek created—a monster that has dwelt within me since that tragic day. And now Victor Frankenstein has returned to face the beast he gave life to."
Jarek, left and became a successful entrepreneur , a billionaire in his own rights,the man he wanted to be for Lana, and to spite all his attempts at trying to tell her how he feels for her, showing her with every sizzling touch and kiss .
"“Lana, I care about you so much.” He thrusts so hard I gasp, but I can't tell if the gasp is from the surprise of his movements or his words. Why would he say that? It kills me, because I’ve wanted to hear these words so badly for so long, and now that they're offered freely, it seems cruel. Surely he's just caught up in the moment, confused as men sometimes are in the middle of sex. It doesn't mean anything to him"
The teenage Lana living inside of the adult Lana can not let go of the fear of him leaving again.
and too stubborn to tell him how he broke her heart back then. Lana keeps sabotaging her second chance, their second chance to the point that it became a bit of a pity party and I wanted to drop kick her also.
However as more is revealed Lana eventually redeems herself from the chapters long pity party and the story comes around to a pretty decent happy ending. By the end of this book just plain feel sorry for her younger sister Janet and am looking forward to her story and a hopeful happy ending for her, and far as her self centered sister Kelsey and equally as self centered, self important mother I can only hope they are redeemable .
Arc graciously provided via Netgalley for an honest review.
August 3, 2017
To get the full review head over to Self-Professed Book Hoarders.
Happy Reading
~*~*~ A very big THANK YOU to Netgalley for providing this ARC in exchange for an honest review ~*~*~
Happy Reading
~*~*~ A very big THANK YOU to Netgalley for providing this ARC in exchange for an honest review ~*~*~
December 23, 2015
I have mixed feelings about this book but in a good way. I liked the whole story as well as the characters.Yes, the plot line was kind of typical but, nonetheless I liked it. Who doesn't love second chance romances. Also their are flashbacks throughout the book but in Lana's point of view.
Jarek had an interesting run in with Lana's dad in the beginning of the book. Jared is taken in and made as a member of the family with the guidance of Lana's father he turns his life around. He fell for Lana but, with unfortunate twist of events the get torn apart all of sudden.
Lana is twenty seven and living her life. She is still hurt and torn up about things after all theme that has past. Despite her hate toward Jarek she still has feelings for him even if shoe doesn't want to admit it to herself.
Kelsey and her mom I hate them. They are the most self centered person no wonder they are alike and get along so well. I still can't believe whitish did because she is so money hungry. I agree with what Lana said "Grow up Mom!". Janet, Damnit Janet! I loved her even when she was at her lowest point and when she was in the bar lol I was laughing my tushy off.
Over all this was a lovely story I liked it so I give it 3.5 stars because, since I felt like I've read this this type of story time and time again. Don't get me wrong I enjoyed it still.
ARC was provided by author in exchange for a honest review
Jarek had an interesting run in with Lana's dad in the beginning of the book. Jared is taken in and made as a member of the family with the guidance of Lana's father he turns his life around. He fell for Lana but, with unfortunate twist of events the get torn apart all of sudden.
Lana is twenty seven and living her life. She is still hurt and torn up about things after all theme that has past. Despite her hate toward Jarek she still has feelings for him even if shoe doesn't want to admit it to herself.
Kelsey and her mom I hate them. They are the most self centered person no wonder they are alike and get along so well. I still can't believe whitish did because she is so money hungry. I agree with what Lana said "Grow up Mom!". Janet, Damnit Janet! I loved her even when she was at her lowest point and when she was in the bar lol I was laughing my tushy off.
Over all this was a lovely story I liked it so I give it 3.5 stars because, since I felt like I've read this this type of story time and time again. Don't get me wrong I enjoyed it still.
ARC was provided by author in exchange for a honest review
February 3, 2016
Not my cup of tea.
**I received a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.**
Since I must be honest, I cannot give this books more than three stars. Before I posted my comments I read so many positive reviews for this books that I reconsider my opinions for rating it as I had done. I stand by those reasons though. I would say the rating is the result of a combination of factors. I am getting tired of first person POV stories when only one character has a chance to speak. I write romance and erotic romance so steamy scenes don’t make me blush. The ones in this book made but not in a good way. They were embarrassingly verbose. Don’t get me wrong. I like my love scenes long and detailed. But for some reason I found myself skimming through the ones in this book. I will give the author the benefit of the doubt and attribute the issue to the first person POV but I am not sure that was it. There are better ways to describe sex scenes even when using first person narrative. My suggestion – more show and less tell. As for the characters, some of the supporting ones were more interesting than both main characters and that is another factor that made me rate it like I did. Finally, the plotline lacks substance but excels in clichés.
In conclusion, even though I did not enjoy this books as much as I thought I would many other reviewers did. Therefore, I recommend you don’t take my word on this and check the book yourself. You might like it much more than I did.
**I received a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.**
Since I must be honest, I cannot give this books more than three stars. Before I posted my comments I read so many positive reviews for this books that I reconsider my opinions for rating it as I had done. I stand by those reasons though. I would say the rating is the result of a combination of factors. I am getting tired of first person POV stories when only one character has a chance to speak. I write romance and erotic romance so steamy scenes don’t make me blush. The ones in this book made but not in a good way. They were embarrassingly verbose. Don’t get me wrong. I like my love scenes long and detailed. But for some reason I found myself skimming through the ones in this book. I will give the author the benefit of the doubt and attribute the issue to the first person POV but I am not sure that was it. There are better ways to describe sex scenes even when using first person narrative. My suggestion – more show and less tell. As for the characters, some of the supporting ones were more interesting than both main characters and that is another factor that made me rate it like I did. Finally, the plotline lacks substance but excels in clichés.
In conclusion, even though I did not enjoy this books as much as I thought I would many other reviewers did. Therefore, I recommend you don’t take my word on this and check the book yourself. You might like it much more than I did.
April 12, 2016
**I received an RC via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review**
This book for me just barely made it to 3 stars.
Read the full review on my blog!
I found it very, very hard to connect with the characters. Especially Lana. I didn’t like her whatsoever. Throughout the entire book, it felt like she was throwing herself a pity party. She spent all of this time warring with herself about whether or not she wanted to be with Jarek. All these emotions could have been dealt with easily if she would have just talked to him. However, she did not and we spent most of book riding her rollercoaster of emotions. She made a whole bunch of assumptions out of the blue that were miles off.
There was also a lot of sex in this book. So much so that it felt like it was just there to fill the space. It was also not sexy whatsoever. There was just too much inner dialogue that distracted me from what was going on.
I do have to say though, by the end of the book, I was ready to run Lana’s mother and sister Kelsey over with a truck. Hated them both with a fiery, burning passion. That’s good writing right there. In fact, the writing really wasn’t bad as it held my interest. Lana’s character just needs a tad more development.
This book for me just barely made it to 3 stars.
Read the full review on my blog!
I found it very, very hard to connect with the characters. Especially Lana. I didn’t like her whatsoever. Throughout the entire book, it felt like she was throwing herself a pity party. She spent all of this time warring with herself about whether or not she wanted to be with Jarek. All these emotions could have been dealt with easily if she would have just talked to him. However, she did not and we spent most of book riding her rollercoaster of emotions. She made a whole bunch of assumptions out of the blue that were miles off.
There was also a lot of sex in this book. So much so that it felt like it was just there to fill the space. It was also not sexy whatsoever. There was just too much inner dialogue that distracted me from what was going on.
I do have to say though, by the end of the book, I was ready to run Lana’s mother and sister Kelsey over with a truck. Hated them both with a fiery, burning passion. That’s good writing right there. In fact, the writing really wasn’t bad as it held my interest. Lana’s character just needs a tad more development.
October 25, 2015
I've received an ARC via NegGalley in exchange for an honest review. Thank you for the opportunity!
Well, this one didn't work for me.
The book was a struggle, I was bored most of the times and I seriously considered to put it on the DNF-shelf more than once.
Basically, a story is dead for me if I can't sympathize with the hero/heroine and to be honest, this Lana chick annoyed the hell out of me. The whole book is just her endless internal struggle about her feelings towards Jerek.
It's another proof ot the importance of communication. If Lana and Jarek would've behaved like adults and clarified the situation right at the beginning, there wouldn't be the whole silly misunderstanding. But in that case there's nothing to write an annoying novel about, right?
I'm giving two stars because at least they used condoms...
I posted this review on NetGalley and a Hungarian version on my blog as well.
Well, this one didn't work for me.
The book was a struggle, I was bored most of the times and I seriously considered to put it on the DNF-shelf more than once.
Basically, a story is dead for me if I can't sympathize with the hero/heroine and to be honest, this Lana chick annoyed the hell out of me. The whole book is just her endless internal struggle about her feelings towards Jerek.
It's another proof ot the importance of communication. If Lana and Jarek would've behaved like adults and clarified the situation right at the beginning, there wouldn't be the whole silly misunderstanding. But in that case there's nothing to write an annoying novel about, right?
I'm giving two stars because at least they used condoms...
I posted this review on NetGalley and a Hungarian version on my blog as well.
November 12, 2015
Although it took me a bit to get into this book I fell in love with this story once I came back to it. I was in a dark reading mood when I started it so I had to hit my mental refresh.. lol Anyway, on to my review :)
Lana was such a cool character, sexy, independant, and real. She comes from a wealthy family but acts like she is the farthest from that. She has such an awesome attitude and such true heart.
Jarek is the sexy boy that she lost and will never let back into her life. Well not completely anyway. lol Jarek is such a sweetheart, sexy as hell, and so full of heart. He will do anything for those he loves and everything to be back in her life.
This story has a strong roller coaster feel but it is such an awesome love story. These two broke my heart and made my heart happy. Lana's family is quite hilarious in their ridiculousness.
This is the first book I have read by Anna Karington but I will definitely be reading more by her!!
Lana was such a cool character, sexy, independant, and real. She comes from a wealthy family but acts like she is the farthest from that. She has such an awesome attitude and such true heart.
Jarek is the sexy boy that she lost and will never let back into her life. Well not completely anyway. lol Jarek is such a sweetheart, sexy as hell, and so full of heart. He will do anything for those he loves and everything to be back in her life.
This story has a strong roller coaster feel but it is such an awesome love story. These two broke my heart and made my heart happy. Lana's family is quite hilarious in their ridiculousness.
This is the first book I have read by Anna Karington but I will definitely be reading more by her!!
November 6, 2015
Jarek And Lana. Wow. This book goes into detail. No matter what the author puts she puts detail into it. There is alot of chemistry. Alot of heartbreak that Lana is trying to get over. And well her sister Kelsey just doesn't let it be easy for her. Lana and Jarek is long lost loves after several years. Jarek came basically from scrap. They met because of him trying to find some stuff to sell and the only way to do that was to steal from a wealthy family in town and well that so happens to be Lanas family. Her father brings Jarek in and thru out the years they start to come interested in each other. After one night of magical situactions the next morning Jarek leaves. The next time Lana sees him is at a party her mother is hosting. Will things go back to the way they were before he left years before. How will it work out? Well read it and find out. Its a good book. Keep with it. You will not be disappointed ! I promise you that.
I received this book as an ARC for my honest review!
I received this book as an ARC for my honest review!
October 10, 2015
Lana is a good woman, she just likes to hide it with her b**** personality, she's also really caring, “get out of those boxers,” I insist. He hesitates, as if he doesn't want to be rude. “Seriously? I've seen you naked.” I yank them down for him, and he lifts his feet as I remove them. “Now sit down.” He obeys, and I sit beside him, preparing the peroxide and tissue before dabbing the wad across his forehead. “You clumsy b*****d,” I mutter. Jarek that boy doesn't care where they are could be looking at an empty condo, if he wants his woman he's going to have his woman, “you naughty boy,” I say. He unfastens his pants and pulls them down his legs with his boxers, revealing his hard erection. “Oh my God,” I say as heat rushes to my face." I really enjoyed reading this book.
January 23, 2016
Run on sentences and give me a break inner dialogue anyone?! This was just not good. Just so I didn't have a DNF I skimmed about 60% because I was irritated. 4 pages of inner dialogue before you get to conversation with someone else or how about a inner dialogue in the middle of the conversation that lasts 3 pages and the reader forgets what the real conversation was....so frustrated.
Then we get to the characters...she wants to be the poor innocent victim and then instead of getting everything out about how she feels she plays games. He wants to come off all wonderful and not own up to what he did. And REALLY you left because of that?!? Then no contact?! YUK just YUK.
PLEASE don't waste your time!
Received a copy from NetGalley for a honest review.
Then we get to the characters...she wants to be the poor innocent victim and then instead of getting everything out about how she feels she plays games. He wants to come off all wonderful and not own up to what he did. And REALLY you left because of that?!? Then no contact?! YUK just YUK.
PLEASE don't waste your time!
Received a copy from NetGalley for a honest review.
December 31, 2016
This read did not keep me transfixed in place. I was reading it when the mood struck me. I have to say that I was no fan of the Raeven sisters mother. I just did not like this lady.
Lana Raeven and Jarek Dean have a past together that was shattered. Now, today they have a chance to make things right but Lana was not in such a forgiving mood. The pain still weighed heavy on her. But she needed to take back her life and confronting Jarek was what she needed to do. With Jarek back she make plans for revenge but revenge is not something easily executed. Life serves her more shocking secrets and things are just never the same in her life.
Lana Raeven and Jarek Dean have a past together that was shattered. Now, today they have a chance to make things right but Lana was not in such a forgiving mood. The pain still weighed heavy on her. But she needed to take back her life and confronting Jarek was what she needed to do. With Jarek back she make plans for revenge but revenge is not something easily executed. Life serves her more shocking secrets and things are just never the same in her life.
May 25, 2016
*ARC from NetGalley in exchange for honest review*
I got this book months ago from NetGalley and tried several times to read it. I couldn't. This time I forced myself to finish it. I hated it. The ending was what saved it from a one-star rating. The entire book basically is an inner monolouge run-on sentence. There was little dialouge that mattered or moved the story. The plot and characters were not awful but the writing was hard to read. This could be saved by a re-write. Also, every time Lana and Jarek ate something together, one of them made a comment about what she was eating. It just wasn't necessary. Anyway, I cannot recommend this to anyone.
I got this book months ago from NetGalley and tried several times to read it. I couldn't. This time I forced myself to finish it. I hated it. The ending was what saved it from a one-star rating. The entire book basically is an inner monolouge run-on sentence. There was little dialouge that mattered or moved the story. The plot and characters were not awful but the writing was hard to read. This could be saved by a re-write. Also, every time Lana and Jarek ate something together, one of them made a comment about what she was eating. It just wasn't necessary. Anyway, I cannot recommend this to anyone.
June 22, 2017
I received a copy from Netgalley, in exchange for an honest review.
Actual Rating: 3.5
This was a great book. The plot was great, and the writing was beautiful and simple. I thought the pace was just right. I loved the characters in this book. I especially loved Jarek and Lana's relationship. It was funny and sweet to see them go from lovers to friends with benefits to lovers. They have amazing chemistry. Overall, an enjoyable read.
Actual Rating: 3.5
This was a great book. The plot was great, and the writing was beautiful and simple. I thought the pace was just right. I loved the characters in this book. I especially loved Jarek and Lana's relationship. It was funny and sweet to see them go from lovers to friends with benefits to lovers. They have amazing chemistry. Overall, an enjoyable read.
January 30, 2016
I wanted to love this book. It seemed to me that Lana was not honest with Jarek about the past and so was he. His non-disclosure was honorable whereas Lana wanted to be vengeful and protect herself by withdrawal. It was hard to warm to Lana. Lana's mom and sister, Kelsey were wicked... making them interesting.
not-for-me
October 10, 2015Self note:
https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
October 13, 2015
Such a cute story!! If you love a sexy alpha male as your leading male, and a sweet romance, then I totally recommend this book!!
February 27, 2016
i liked the story and characters, but the Way its written...no.
Too much inner dialogue.
review to come.
Too much inner dialogue.
review to come.
September 10, 2018
2.5 stars
A copy of this book was provided via NetGalley for an honest review.
This was the debut book for Author Anna Karington, it was written nicely but the story just did not hold my attention like I wanted. I found myself scanning over parts of the story especially the love/sex scenes between Lana and Jarek. These scenes were just too long and detailed for my liking. And having to grab lube every time just seemed strange to me.
I had a hard time connecting with the characters. After so many years apart, Lana and Jarek did not seem to know how to communicate with each other even though they were now adults and no longer the teens. The one character that intrigued me was Janet. Lana's baby sister. I have also been given a copy of book 2 in this series which is Janet's book. Let see if Author Anna Karington woes me in that one.
A copy of this book was provided via NetGalley for an honest review.
This was the debut book for Author Anna Karington, it was written nicely but the story just did not hold my attention like I wanted. I found myself scanning over parts of the story especially the love/sex scenes between Lana and Jarek. These scenes were just too long and detailed for my liking. And having to grab lube every time just seemed strange to me.
I had a hard time connecting with the characters. After so many years apart, Lana and Jarek did not seem to know how to communicate with each other even though they were now adults and no longer the teens. The one character that intrigued me was Janet. Lana's baby sister. I have also been given a copy of book 2 in this series which is Janet's book. Let see if Author Anna Karington woes me in that one.
June 9, 2018
In Every Time He Leaves, we follow Lana as she tries to seek revenge on the guy that broke her hear.
When she first sees Jarek again, it is not easy for her. She knows their connection had been very strong. Jarek meanwhile, still only has eyes for Lana. He has been working hard to better himself, to be worthy of her.
They have issues to face, but watching their relationship grow again is sweet and romantic. And HOT!
I definitely enjoyed this story!
When she first sees Jarek again, it is not easy for her. She knows their connection had been very strong. Jarek meanwhile, still only has eyes for Lana. He has been working hard to better himself, to be worthy of her.
They have issues to face, but watching their relationship grow again is sweet and romantic. And HOT!
I definitely enjoyed this story!
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