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Caught Up in Love #1
Caught Up In Raine
2017 IPPY Award Winner
“Don’t judge a book by its cover model”
Forty-two and widowed, romance writer Jillian Grant believes hospitals equal death. Plagued by loss and convinced more is imminent when her aunt ends up in critical condition after heart surgery; she has come to equate the absence of pain with happiness. When she spots a hot, young landscaper working on the hospital grounds with an eerie resemblance to the male lead in her next novel, she convinces him to pose as her cover model.
Working multiple jobs to put himself through college, twenty-four-year-old Raine MacDonald is no stranger to loss. Behind his handsome face and rockin’ body lies family tragedy and agonizing secrets. When circumstances put him back in the path of his abusive father, fate delivers Jillian as his unwitting savior. Thing is, when he thinks of her, his thoughts are far from platonic.
Despite their age difference, Jillian and Raine discover they’re more alike than they could ever imagine. But torn between facing her own fears and grasping a chance at happiness, Jillian makes a soul-shattering decision that threatens to blow their world apart.
“Don’t judge a book by its cover model”
Forty-two and widowed, romance writer Jillian Grant believes hospitals equal death. Plagued by loss and convinced more is imminent when her aunt ends up in critical condition after heart surgery; she has come to equate the absence of pain with happiness. When she spots a hot, young landscaper working on the hospital grounds with an eerie resemblance to the male lead in her next novel, she convinces him to pose as her cover model.
Working multiple jobs to put himself through college, twenty-four-year-old Raine MacDonald is no stranger to loss. Behind his handsome face and rockin’ body lies family tragedy and agonizing secrets. When circumstances put him back in the path of his abusive father, fate delivers Jillian as his unwitting savior. Thing is, when he thinks of her, his thoughts are far from platonic.
Despite their age difference, Jillian and Raine discover they’re more alike than they could ever imagine. But torn between facing her own fears and grasping a chance at happiness, Jillian makes a soul-shattering decision that threatens to blow their world apart.
308 pages, Paperback
First published April 18, 2016
27 people are currently reading
685 people want to read
About the author
L.G. O'Connor
15 books136 followersLG O’Connor is a corporate marketing exec by day who takes her author cape out at night. An avid reader, she loves books with memorable characters that make her heart sing. She’s the author of the urban fantasy / paranormal romance series, The Angelorum Twelve Chronicles, and the award-winning romantic women’s fiction series, Caught Up in Love. A native ‘Jersey Girl,’ she’s always in search of the perfect cup of coffee and fine Italian leather. Her perfect hero always keeps the heroine fed. You can find recipes, which first appeared on USA Today’s Happy Ever After blog, from the sexy hero of Caught Up in RAINE in his cookbook, Recipes from Raine’s Roost aka Jillian’s Kitchen.
As an avid book lover, she enjoys connecting with readers.
As an avid book lover, she enjoys connecting with readers.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 52 reviews
June 10, 2016
Copyright Night Owl Reviews
L.G. O'Connor’s Caught Up In Raine is an imaginative read that gives us heartbreak and sadness, but also allows us to experience what it would be like to have that feeling of 'young love' again. During the first half of this book, I felt like the story was okay. The writing was a bit different but the plot was interesting, and the second half of the book drew me in even more. I have to admit, I was all caught up in Raine as the reader. I understand the pull that the main character, Jillian, feels toward Raine. The attraction was there before she even realized it with her unconscious actions, making it clear that she made the decision to keep him around. When things come to a head near the end of the book, I was surprised with the outcome given the character’s circumstances, which lead to my favorite part of the story when there is a beautiful scene that made the whole story so much more significant. For all the contemporary romance fans out there, this book is for you. I recommend it highly.
To read my full review, please click the link below:
https://www.nightowlreviews.com/v5/Re...
L.G. O'Connor’s Caught Up In Raine is an imaginative read that gives us heartbreak and sadness, but also allows us to experience what it would be like to have that feeling of 'young love' again. During the first half of this book, I felt like the story was okay. The writing was a bit different but the plot was interesting, and the second half of the book drew me in even more. I have to admit, I was all caught up in Raine as the reader. I understand the pull that the main character, Jillian, feels toward Raine. The attraction was there before she even realized it with her unconscious actions, making it clear that she made the decision to keep him around. When things come to a head near the end of the book, I was surprised with the outcome given the character’s circumstances, which lead to my favorite part of the story when there is a beautiful scene that made the whole story so much more significant. For all the contemporary romance fans out there, this book is for you. I recommend it highly.
To read my full review, please click the link below:
https://www.nightowlreviews.com/v5/Re...
December 9, 2015
I’ll admit I was curious to see what L.G. O’Connor would do stepping out of the paranormal genre (her wonderful Angelorum Twelve Chronicles) and into the world of romantic womens’ fiction. As a beta reader for this novel I can tell you, she didn’t miss a beat!
Caught Up In Raine is a story for anyone who wants a good make-your-heart-skip-a-beat romance. A younger man/older woman story, it is so much more than a tale about age. Managing to showcase two very different personalities, shaped by very different backgrounds, the author allows the reader to see how brilliantly Raine and Jillian complement each other, even when they are blind to it themselves.
With Jillian I got to share a full range of emotions. I could completely understand her hesitant disbelief, her insecurities in embarking on such a relationship, even a moment of denial. I cheered when she finally abandoned herself to pure joy in accepting the gift of love being offered. And, though I wanted it not to happen, I also empathized with the fear and love that justified leaving a terrible misunderstanding to stand uncorrected.
And Raine is no shallow, pretty boy either. We come to understand the past that has shaped him into so much more than a handsome face with a great body. His connection to Jillian, coupled with moments of frustration, are clever reminders of the age difference between them. His anger, and, at times feelings of resentment, are simply the result of life experiences he has yet to have. As such, he has little to guide him when faced with an ultimatum he believes to be wrong. His only course is to cover hurt feelings with misplaced temper and pride.
With clever dialogue, and situations that are both insightful and relevant, L.G. O’Connor’s writing will make you laugh, make you cry, and above all make you believe that real love doesn’t give a damn how old you are! Caught Up In Raine is a worthwhile read and a definite keeper.
Caught Up In Raine is a story for anyone who wants a good make-your-heart-skip-a-beat romance. A younger man/older woman story, it is so much more than a tale about age. Managing to showcase two very different personalities, shaped by very different backgrounds, the author allows the reader to see how brilliantly Raine and Jillian complement each other, even when they are blind to it themselves.
With Jillian I got to share a full range of emotions. I could completely understand her hesitant disbelief, her insecurities in embarking on such a relationship, even a moment of denial. I cheered when she finally abandoned herself to pure joy in accepting the gift of love being offered. And, though I wanted it not to happen, I also empathized with the fear and love that justified leaving a terrible misunderstanding to stand uncorrected.
And Raine is no shallow, pretty boy either. We come to understand the past that has shaped him into so much more than a handsome face with a great body. His connection to Jillian, coupled with moments of frustration, are clever reminders of the age difference between them. His anger, and, at times feelings of resentment, are simply the result of life experiences he has yet to have. As such, he has little to guide him when faced with an ultimatum he believes to be wrong. His only course is to cover hurt feelings with misplaced temper and pride.
With clever dialogue, and situations that are both insightful and relevant, L.G. O’Connor’s writing will make you laugh, make you cry, and above all make you believe that real love doesn’t give a damn how old you are! Caught Up In Raine is a worthwhile read and a definite keeper.
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April 19, 2016
Well now, color me impressed!!
When I first read the blurb of this book, my mind immediately went to that Mrs Robinson place, so of course I jumped at the chance to read this ARC for L.G. O'Connor. And I'm really glad that I did.
I loved everything the author did in this story. She didn't make the age difference in our leads anything more than what it was, a number. She didn't focus on it to the point where it took away from the beautiful love story she presented. She didn't take the baggage that both Jillian and Raine brought into their journey to HEA and make it so agnsty that it deterred from the love story. Don't get me wrong, it's there, and in true romance novel form, it does rear its ugly head but it just isn't over the top.
I also loved how the author took Jillian and Raine and made them almost complete opposites but yet absolutely perfect for one another. For where one lacked, the other made up for. Honestly, I really REALLY love this story!
Another prop the author gets from me is that she made sure that although Raine was young in age, he was not young in mind and heart and soul. THAT is what made this story work for me. Like I mentioned earlier ... it was just a number.
I really loved the ride L.G. O'Connor took me on with this book. It will make you laugh and cry and laugh some more, you will want to scream and slap someone a time or two, but best of all, it will give you hope and it will make a believer out of you! #TRUST
ARC received by the author for review
When I first read the blurb of this book, my mind immediately went to that Mrs Robinson place, so of course I jumped at the chance to read this ARC for L.G. O'Connor. And I'm really glad that I did.
I loved everything the author did in this story. She didn't make the age difference in our leads anything more than what it was, a number. She didn't focus on it to the point where it took away from the beautiful love story she presented. She didn't take the baggage that both Jillian and Raine brought into their journey to HEA and make it so agnsty that it deterred from the love story. Don't get me wrong, it's there, and in true romance novel form, it does rear its ugly head but it just isn't over the top.
I also loved how the author took Jillian and Raine and made them almost complete opposites but yet absolutely perfect for one another. For where one lacked, the other made up for. Honestly, I really REALLY love this story!
Another prop the author gets from me is that she made sure that although Raine was young in age, he was not young in mind and heart and soul. THAT is what made this story work for me. Like I mentioned earlier ... it was just a number.
I really loved the ride L.G. O'Connor took me on with this book. It will make you laugh and cry and laugh some more, you will want to scream and slap someone a time or two, but best of all, it will give you hope and it will make a believer out of you! #TRUST
ARC received by the author for review
May 1, 2016
Star crossed lovers or soul mates? CAUGHT UP IN RAINE will make you wish for just a taste of either one in your life.
When 42-year-old widow Jillian Grant sees 24-year-old Raine MacDonald, she immediately pictures him as the cover model for her new book. It doesn't hurt that he looks exactly like her high school boyfriend and the inspiration behind the new novel. Despite the 18-year age difference, the pair find themselves incredibly attracted to one another. Jillian's insecurities about her age and body and Raine's insecurity and self-esteem issues could be a toxic combo, but instead bond the two beyond what either thought possible. Not everyone is thrilled with the two of them dating, but it doesn't deter them from falling hard and fast for one another. But when push comes to shove, one of them is forced to make a choice that will irrevocably change the course of their lives forever.
CAUGHT UP IN RAINE is the first book in the Caught Up In Love series and is a May-December romance with a sexy, cover-model worthy man and a woman old enough to be his mother. The age difference is a big deal to everyone but Raine; in Jillian he finds a compassionate, caring woman who doesn't see him as just a hot bed partner, but rather treats him like a person, a friend, a lover, a man. In Raine, Jillian finds a sexy, sweet and generous lover who worships her and makes her feel like a goddess. The difference in their ages were most pronounced when it came to attitude. Raine was a bit of a hothead at times, not having that mellowness that comes with age. Jillian tended toward mothering him once in a while, even though she had no experience at it personally. My heart broke for the repeated death in both of their lives, and for the insecurity and pain it caused them both.
This story is both beautiful and haunting, and sometimes it leaves me with more questions than answers, but that's one of the things I love about it. You don't get EVERYTHING from Jillian and Raine, you get the sense that Ms. O'Connor has just scratched the surface with this couple. I loved every second of this sexy, sweet and romantic book!!!
Bottom Line: Let yourself get caught up in Raine as soon as possible. You won't be sorry! - See more at: http://www.theromancereviews.com/view...
- See more at: http://www.theromancereviews.com/view...
When 42-year-old widow Jillian Grant sees 24-year-old Raine MacDonald, she immediately pictures him as the cover model for her new book. It doesn't hurt that he looks exactly like her high school boyfriend and the inspiration behind the new novel. Despite the 18-year age difference, the pair find themselves incredibly attracted to one another. Jillian's insecurities about her age and body and Raine's insecurity and self-esteem issues could be a toxic combo, but instead bond the two beyond what either thought possible. Not everyone is thrilled with the two of them dating, but it doesn't deter them from falling hard and fast for one another. But when push comes to shove, one of them is forced to make a choice that will irrevocably change the course of their lives forever.
CAUGHT UP IN RAINE is the first book in the Caught Up In Love series and is a May-December romance with a sexy, cover-model worthy man and a woman old enough to be his mother. The age difference is a big deal to everyone but Raine; in Jillian he finds a compassionate, caring woman who doesn't see him as just a hot bed partner, but rather treats him like a person, a friend, a lover, a man. In Raine, Jillian finds a sexy, sweet and generous lover who worships her and makes her feel like a goddess. The difference in their ages were most pronounced when it came to attitude. Raine was a bit of a hothead at times, not having that mellowness that comes with age. Jillian tended toward mothering him once in a while, even though she had no experience at it personally. My heart broke for the repeated death in both of their lives, and for the insecurity and pain it caused them both.
This story is both beautiful and haunting, and sometimes it leaves me with more questions than answers, but that's one of the things I love about it. You don't get EVERYTHING from Jillian and Raine, you get the sense that Ms. O'Connor has just scratched the surface with this couple. I loved every second of this sexy, sweet and romantic book!!!
Bottom Line: Let yourself get caught up in Raine as soon as possible. You won't be sorry! - See more at: http://www.theromancereviews.com/view...
- See more at: http://www.theromancereviews.com/view...
July 30, 2018
I’ve been on the hunt for stories that features a mature heroine and a feasible plot and this book hit all the right cords… for the most part.
Fourty something Jillian is still reeling from a tragic accident that took the life of her one true love. Not even years of marriage were able to erase all those feelings she’s decided to keep for her long lost love. Enter Raine, a younger man with some serious issues of his own who not only teaches her that age is just a number but also to let go of the past and live in the present.
This story was so emotional! I required more than a few days to get all my muddle thoughts and feelings in order after I finished the book. I specially liked the fact that Raine is not just a pretty face but a smart man with hopes for the future and is not afraid to take risks. I didn’t like much that Jillian was so gloomy at times but when I really think about it, she was going through some tough times and when you carry that kind of grief for so long it’s hard to let go.
There were times I thought Raine was the rational one making the right decisions while Jillian was just there for the ride, proving once more that age is not indicative of how mature the person is. Also, there were some arcs that I thought were too complicated and unnecessary but other than that this book totally worked for me. The characters of the next book are introduced in this book and I will definitely be reading that one pretty soon.
I won a copy of this book via Goodreads Giveaways; this is my honest opinion and given without any influence by the author or publisher.
Fourty something Jillian is still reeling from a tragic accident that took the life of her one true love. Not even years of marriage were able to erase all those feelings she’s decided to keep for her long lost love. Enter Raine, a younger man with some serious issues of his own who not only teaches her that age is just a number but also to let go of the past and live in the present.
This story was so emotional! I required more than a few days to get all my muddle thoughts and feelings in order after I finished the book. I specially liked the fact that Raine is not just a pretty face but a smart man with hopes for the future and is not afraid to take risks. I didn’t like much that Jillian was so gloomy at times but when I really think about it, she was going through some tough times and when you carry that kind of grief for so long it’s hard to let go.
There were times I thought Raine was the rational one making the right decisions while Jillian was just there for the ride, proving once more that age is not indicative of how mature the person is. Also, there were some arcs that I thought were too complicated and unnecessary but other than that this book totally worked for me. The characters of the next book are introduced in this book and I will definitely be reading that one pretty soon.
I won a copy of this book via Goodreads Giveaways; this is my honest opinion and given without any influence by the author or publisher.
December 16, 2015
I received an ARC of Caught Up in Raine. This is a diversion from my usual genres, but the words "don't judge a book by its cover" ring true! The writing was very good-spinning realistic characters and a well-developed storyline. I particularly enjoyed the pacing of the dialogue and will definitely look for more from L.G. O'Connor.
April 18, 2016
Absolutely brilliant!
This book will take you on a ride of heartbreak to love. The two main characters are intelligent, strong-willed and have a ton of devastating history to overcome. Between the two, you'll laugh, you'll cry, and you'll be swept away into a five star read.
absolutely recommend.
This book will take you on a ride of heartbreak to love. The two main characters are intelligent, strong-willed and have a ton of devastating history to overcome. Between the two, you'll laugh, you'll cry, and you'll be swept away into a five star read.
absolutely recommend.
February 5, 2016
I received this book in exchange for an honest review. What can I say? I loved this book. I was surprised at just how mature Raine was. These two were meant to be together despite there age difference. This is a perfect modern romance. I love it.
April 18, 2016
Jillian Grant, a 42 yr. old romance writer has lost quite a few people in her life. While leaving the hospital after visiting another sick relative, she sees a man who looks just like her newest character and hires him for her cover photo.
Raine McDonald is a 24 yr. old student working to make ends meet after the death of his mother caused his plans to crash around him. This opportunity is just what he needs and it doesn't hurt that he thinks his new boss is hot!
I was hesitant about this story at first. Let's face it, Jillian is close to my age and Raine is the same age as my son. I just couldn't imagine that this wouldn't end up feeling creepy. But Raine is an old soul and I began to root for him and even get angry with Jillian when it seemed she was going to do something stupid and throw away her chance for happiness.
You've heard about a magical connection? Well, these two have it in spades. It's a beautiful book with tender moments and hot love scenes. This is an inspiring story of two very different people becoming friends, then lovers, and believing in second chances. I'm so glad I had the opportunity to read my first book by L.G. O'Connor. I'll definitely be reading more! A Book Obsessed Chicks Review Team Selection
Raine McDonald is a 24 yr. old student working to make ends meet after the death of his mother caused his plans to crash around him. This opportunity is just what he needs and it doesn't hurt that he thinks his new boss is hot!
I was hesitant about this story at first. Let's face it, Jillian is close to my age and Raine is the same age as my son. I just couldn't imagine that this wouldn't end up feeling creepy. But Raine is an old soul and I began to root for him and even get angry with Jillian when it seemed she was going to do something stupid and throw away her chance for happiness.
You've heard about a magical connection? Well, these two have it in spades. It's a beautiful book with tender moments and hot love scenes. This is an inspiring story of two very different people becoming friends, then lovers, and believing in second chances. I'm so glad I had the opportunity to read my first book by L.G. O'Connor. I'll definitely be reading more! A Book Obsessed Chicks Review Team Selection
February 22, 2016
This is my first L.G. O Connor book. Needless to say, this wouldn't be my last!
Writing a romance novel around two individuals with an age difference of around 2 decades can be quite challenging. But she has done the story well - you don't see the age difference much as the characters are made for each other and it shows in the author's writing.
Jillian a 42-year old widow and Raine who's a 24-year old find solace in one another. Though Raine is younger than Jillian his hard life with his abusive father and other instances make him wise beyond his age and Jillian has her own insecurities due to her age and when both of meet - sparks fly.
Their age difference is apparent in their attitudes but though opposites, they fit perfectly well together! It is a beautiful story where two people who complete and compliment each other, meet and decide to take the plunge - risk their heart for the ONE.
It is a heart-breaking read, so you will need tissues! But worth your time as their journey is bittersweet and you will fall in love with the characters.
**I was kindly provided an ARC by Net Galley in exchange for an honest review.
Writing a romance novel around two individuals with an age difference of around 2 decades can be quite challenging. But she has done the story well - you don't see the age difference much as the characters are made for each other and it shows in the author's writing.
Jillian a 42-year old widow and Raine who's a 24-year old find solace in one another. Though Raine is younger than Jillian his hard life with his abusive father and other instances make him wise beyond his age and Jillian has her own insecurities due to her age and when both of meet - sparks fly.
Their age difference is apparent in their attitudes but though opposites, they fit perfectly well together! It is a beautiful story where two people who complete and compliment each other, meet and decide to take the plunge - risk their heart for the ONE.
It is a heart-breaking read, so you will need tissues! But worth your time as their journey is bittersweet and you will fall in love with the characters.
**I was kindly provided an ARC by Net Galley in exchange for an honest review.
April 19, 2016
4.5 Stars
Jillian a widowed woman who feels death is out to those she loves. She’s suffered the loss of too many in her short years. A talented writer and photographer, she allows her work to be an outlet. She hid behind her loss until an unlikely young man hits her sense for passion. Igniting a fire she can’t control.
Raine was an amazing character. Working his way through school. Beyond wise for his years. A true gentleman. He too, suffered lost that he carries with him constantly. Raine is remarkable mature. He’s one of those, what I call, little things men. He captured this readers heart.
I never thought when I picked up Caught Up in Raine I would need a box tissues when I finished. Wow! This book was fabulous. Emotional, real, raw and fun. Raine and Jillian worked so well together. The age difference between the two was really just a number. The passion was slow and building. They discovered each other while filling in love. Their were each other yin to yang! The chemistry is off the charts and the emotions hit right in the heart. A fantastic read buy a new to me author.
A Book Obsessed Chicks Review Team Selection.
Jillian a widowed woman who feels death is out to those she loves. She’s suffered the loss of too many in her short years. A talented writer and photographer, she allows her work to be an outlet. She hid behind her loss until an unlikely young man hits her sense for passion. Igniting a fire she can’t control.
Raine was an amazing character. Working his way through school. Beyond wise for his years. A true gentleman. He too, suffered lost that he carries with him constantly. Raine is remarkable mature. He’s one of those, what I call, little things men. He captured this readers heart.
I never thought when I picked up Caught Up in Raine I would need a box tissues when I finished. Wow! This book was fabulous. Emotional, real, raw and fun. Raine and Jillian worked so well together. The age difference between the two was really just a number. The passion was slow and building. They discovered each other while filling in love. Their were each other yin to yang! The chemistry is off the charts and the emotions hit right in the heart. A fantastic read buy a new to me author.
A Book Obsessed Chicks Review Team Selection.
December 14, 2015
Caught Up In Raine by L.G.O'Connor*****
I received this NetGalley ARC in exchange for an honest review. Usually, I am not a contemporary reader but this book changed my mind.
Ms. O'Connor has given her characters such depth and appeal you can never forget them. Both Raine and Jillian come to life from the pages they are strong and damaged. The age difference becomes a brief factor for Jillian but never for Raine.
Raine is matured beyond his 24 years having suffered at the hands of an abusive father. Jillian has lost so many people in her life she has given up on happiness and love.
In reading this book for me the age difference 18 years was never a factor but I interpreted as the strength they both needed. The twists and turns in the story to bring it to a full circle are exquisitely done by this author. I would highly recommend this book and look forward to the two upcoming sequels.
I received this NetGalley ARC in exchange for an honest review. Usually, I am not a contemporary reader but this book changed my mind.
Ms. O'Connor has given her characters such depth and appeal you can never forget them. Both Raine and Jillian come to life from the pages they are strong and damaged. The age difference becomes a brief factor for Jillian but never for Raine.
Raine is matured beyond his 24 years having suffered at the hands of an abusive father. Jillian has lost so many people in her life she has given up on happiness and love.
In reading this book for me the age difference 18 years was never a factor but I interpreted as the strength they both needed. The twists and turns in the story to bring it to a full circle are exquisitely done by this author. I would highly recommend this book and look forward to the two upcoming sequels.
February 2, 2016
A wonderfully heartwarming story. Raine and Jillian both have very difficult pasts as well as trauma and guilt deeply ingrained from their experiences. Jillian is a New York Times Bestselling author, freelance photographer and a 42 year old widow after losing her husband prematurely. Raine is a 25 year old part time landscaper, bartender and student trying to obtain his degree. A chance encounter leads to Jillian asking Raine to pose as a cover model for her book. They both take their life experiences and learn that working together to evolve and cope that lead them overcome their anguish.
This is an emotionally charged book that may require you to keep a few tissues handy.
This is an emotionally charged book that may require you to keep a few tissues handy.
February 1, 2019
I won an advanced reader’s copy of this book in a contest. It is the first LG O’Connor book I have read. This is the story of a 42-year-old widowed romance writer, Jillian, and a 24-year-old gardener/college student, Raine, who she “discovers” to be her next cover model. Naturally the two develop a romantic relationship. The story has some predictable plotting and would have worked well without Raine bearing an uncanny resemblance to Jillian’s dead lover. The characters are well-fleshed out and their emotions and motivations relatable and believable.
February 15, 2016
I received an ARC of Caught Up in Raine and was immediately engaged by the story. There is a tenderness that threads throughout that is captivating; and, the sexual energy between the protagonist and her lover is palpable. It is a book that begs to be finished in one sitting.
Above all else, I was drawn to O'Connor's writing skill. It is lean, but pulsing with life; it is visually alluring, while being teasingly suggestive. The dialog is paced perfectly, and the intertwining of perspectives is simply masterful.
Above all else, I was drawn to O'Connor's writing skill. It is lean, but pulsing with life; it is visually alluring, while being teasingly suggestive. The dialog is paced perfectly, and the intertwining of perspectives is simply masterful.
January 6, 2016
I was gifted this book from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
There is an endless supply of emotions when reading Caught Up in Raine. Have your tissues ready. I love LG O’Connor’s Paranormal Romances, so when I had a change to try a Contemporary Romance by this wonderful author, how could I pass it up.
Read More. . . http://www.romanceswithalittlekick.co...
There is an endless supply of emotions when reading Caught Up in Raine. Have your tissues ready. I love LG O’Connor’s Paranormal Romances, so when I had a change to try a Contemporary Romance by this wonderful author, how could I pass it up.
Read More. . . http://www.romanceswithalittlekick.co...
January 27, 2018
Love in its purest form.
WOW, JUST WOW! Started this book because I loved the cover so much. This was only the beginning...such a beautiful love story you have written L. G. O'Connor. Raine and Jillian filled each others missing pieces with a love that could not be denied. So glad to have found this author that is new to me. I've already downloaded the next two books in the series and am eager to dive into those. I highly recommend this book and feel sure that y'all will fall in love with Raine and Jillian too!
WOW, JUST WOW! Started this book because I loved the cover so much. This was only the beginning...such a beautiful love story you have written L. G. O'Connor. Raine and Jillian filled each others missing pieces with a love that could not be denied. So glad to have found this author that is new to me. I've already downloaded the next two books in the series and am eager to dive into those. I highly recommend this book and feel sure that y'all will fall in love with Raine and Jillian too!
April 25, 2016
Originally published at Reading Reality
I picked up Caught Up in Raine because I’m an absolute sucker for a well-done older woman/younger man romance, for reasons that I’ll get into later. But that isn’t all there is to this story. There’s a bit of an unusual second chance at romance thrown in, as well as a heaping helping of Romancing the Stone. Not in the sense of near-death adventures in the jungle, but the part of that story where a romance writer meets the real-life version of her hero, and finds herself living one of her own stories.
Jillian Grant is a romance writer in her early 40s. She’s also a widow. And the love of her life died in an automobile accident when they were both 18 and just ready to embark on their happy ever after. In spite of the contentment she found in her marriage, her late husband just wasn’t the person she felt she had been meant to be with. She settled. Or perhaps she punished herself for having been the driver in that long ago accident when her car was t-boned by a woman in the middle of having a stroke while behind the wheel.
Jillian’s current life takes a sharp left turn into the unknown when she meets Raine. He is the spitting image of her long-dead love, Drew. Which also makes him the perfect model for the cover of her next book – because Jillian is trying to expiate her ghosts by writing them into her fiction, and a slightly altered Drew is the hero of the romantic suspense novel she is in the middle of writing.
When she asks Raine to model for her, she is studiously ignoring her attraction to him, especially since there is an element of uncertainty. Is it Raine she’s attracted to, or just his uncanny resemblance to Drew? And their 18 year age gap keeps her from noticing that Raine is just as attracted to her as she is to him.
Raine and Jillian need each other. Jillian is just the woman that Raine has been searching for. The amount of trauma that Raine has survived, and in some ways is still living through, have made him grow up harder and faster than his years would normally allow. And Jillian needs someone to pull her out of her own head, help her stop clinging to the past, and get her to look towards her own future and her own happiness.
Even though they shouldn’t be, they are a perfect match. And in spite of some disapproval and concern from Jillian’s family, as well as a vicious attack by Raine’s crazy dad, they put together a life that is filled with love and joy.
Until a seeming miracle occurs, and the realities of their situation, that Jillian is hitting mid-life while Raine is still chronologically relatively young, hit them sideways. Jillian decides that it is better for her to cut Raine loose now, before he tears her heart out later. When she tears his out instead, it looks like a happy ever after for these lovers is not meant to be.
But it is.
Escape Rating A-: I said that I have a soft spot for a well-done older woman/younger man romance. I’m also in a position to judge just how well it’s done, because I’ve been living one myself for the last 15 years. Been there, still doing that, got a whole closet full of the t-shirts.
Like some of my favorites in the genre, Dating a Cougar by Donna McDonald, Fallen from Grace by Laura Leone, Knight In Black Leather by Gail Dayton, and On the Island by Tracey Garvis-Graves, Caught Up In Raine is one where the relationship is done right. All of the doubts about even the possibility of this relationship that go through Jillian’s head are so very real. And while Raine is a bit too good to be true in some respects – not only is he gorgeous but he’s also a gourmet chef and a personal trainer! – the experiences that he has lived through make it feel right that he is looking for someone with more maturity instead of what one might usually expect, a pretty girl a couple/few years younger than he is. He’s experienced too many of life’s hard knocks much too young for what society sees as standard to work for him. He needs someone who has also been through enough to understand where he is coming from.
At the same time, they aren’t going to be going through the same things at the same time. Jillian’s expectations of the rest of her life are different because she’s at a different place in her life than Raine is in his. They can get past that, but it is a very real issue that has to be dealt with for the relationship to work. (That’s also true with an older man/younger woman relationship, but the situation is generally glossed over because that pattern is more expected.)
The tragedies that they have each separately experienced bind them together – the joys that they face together almost drive them apart. But this isn’t a misunderstandammit, the situation feels very real.
And the storybook ending is sweet, intense and totally earned.
I picked up Caught Up in Raine because I’m an absolute sucker for a well-done older woman/younger man romance, for reasons that I’ll get into later. But that isn’t all there is to this story. There’s a bit of an unusual second chance at romance thrown in, as well as a heaping helping of Romancing the Stone. Not in the sense of near-death adventures in the jungle, but the part of that story where a romance writer meets the real-life version of her hero, and finds herself living one of her own stories.
Jillian Grant is a romance writer in her early 40s. She’s also a widow. And the love of her life died in an automobile accident when they were both 18 and just ready to embark on their happy ever after. In spite of the contentment she found in her marriage, her late husband just wasn’t the person she felt she had been meant to be with. She settled. Or perhaps she punished herself for having been the driver in that long ago accident when her car was t-boned by a woman in the middle of having a stroke while behind the wheel.
Jillian’s current life takes a sharp left turn into the unknown when she meets Raine. He is the spitting image of her long-dead love, Drew. Which also makes him the perfect model for the cover of her next book – because Jillian is trying to expiate her ghosts by writing them into her fiction, and a slightly altered Drew is the hero of the romantic suspense novel she is in the middle of writing.
When she asks Raine to model for her, she is studiously ignoring her attraction to him, especially since there is an element of uncertainty. Is it Raine she’s attracted to, or just his uncanny resemblance to Drew? And their 18 year age gap keeps her from noticing that Raine is just as attracted to her as she is to him.
Raine and Jillian need each other. Jillian is just the woman that Raine has been searching for. The amount of trauma that Raine has survived, and in some ways is still living through, have made him grow up harder and faster than his years would normally allow. And Jillian needs someone to pull her out of her own head, help her stop clinging to the past, and get her to look towards her own future and her own happiness.
Even though they shouldn’t be, they are a perfect match. And in spite of some disapproval and concern from Jillian’s family, as well as a vicious attack by Raine’s crazy dad, they put together a life that is filled with love and joy.
Until a seeming miracle occurs, and the realities of their situation, that Jillian is hitting mid-life while Raine is still chronologically relatively young, hit them sideways. Jillian decides that it is better for her to cut Raine loose now, before he tears her heart out later. When she tears his out instead, it looks like a happy ever after for these lovers is not meant to be.
But it is.
Escape Rating A-: I said that I have a soft spot for a well-done older woman/younger man romance. I’m also in a position to judge just how well it’s done, because I’ve been living one myself for the last 15 years. Been there, still doing that, got a whole closet full of the t-shirts.
Like some of my favorites in the genre, Dating a Cougar by Donna McDonald, Fallen from Grace by Laura Leone, Knight In Black Leather by Gail Dayton, and On the Island by Tracey Garvis-Graves, Caught Up In Raine is one where the relationship is done right. All of the doubts about even the possibility of this relationship that go through Jillian’s head are so very real. And while Raine is a bit too good to be true in some respects – not only is he gorgeous but he’s also a gourmet chef and a personal trainer! – the experiences that he has lived through make it feel right that he is looking for someone with more maturity instead of what one might usually expect, a pretty girl a couple/few years younger than he is. He’s experienced too many of life’s hard knocks much too young for what society sees as standard to work for him. He needs someone who has also been through enough to understand where he is coming from.
At the same time, they aren’t going to be going through the same things at the same time. Jillian’s expectations of the rest of her life are different because she’s at a different place in her life than Raine is in his. They can get past that, but it is a very real issue that has to be dealt with for the relationship to work. (That’s also true with an older man/younger woman relationship, but the situation is generally glossed over because that pattern is more expected.)
The tragedies that they have each separately experienced bind them together – the joys that they face together almost drive them apart. But this isn’t a misunderstandammit, the situation feels very real.
And the storybook ending is sweet, intense and totally earned.
April 9, 2016
MY BLOG: Melissa Martin's Reading List
Well here is another pleasant surprise in books. And I have to admit, I did judge the book by it's cover when I first signed up for it :-)
This is book is about Jillian who is a forty-two-year-old romance writer. She lost her husband and several other family members that she loved and she doesn't feel like there is anything out there left for her and she's scared. All she has is her older sister Kitty after they lose the last living relative.
One day when Jillian is leaving the hospital she has to ask a landscaping company to move their truck so she could get by and lo and behold - she meets Raine! Sexy, handsome, considerate Raine. He's only twenty-four but we don't find that out until a little later. Jillian knows he's young and she also knows he will make a perfect cover for the current book she is writing. Jillian makes him a proposition to model for some photo's, she's a photographer as well, and he agrees. Of course she then has to get in an argument with her agent about getting the publishing company to let her design her own book cover. Good times.
I loved how the chemistry between Raine and Jillian moves slowly through out the book and how they are so perfect for each other despite their age. I mean old arse men can date young arse women so get over it! Anyhoo, when they do finally get their thing on, it's pretty intense! to say the least.
I mean it is very erotic but very good because that is not all the book is about. Well, one part did gross me out that has to do with a sac but I'm not going there <---
Jillian and Raine both have baggage from their pasts, Raine's not all being in the past. I explained how Jillian has lost so many people, but Raine lost his mother when he was a little younger and his father was abusive to him until he finally got away from him. Unfortunately, Raine had to live with his father for a little bit until Raine ended up in the hospital and Jillian moved him in with her. I thought Raine's father was a horrible person, but things don't always turn out as they seem. Yes, the father did have problems back in the day but certain things he did had a reason behind it and it was really sad. Raine's mom was a famous fashion model and an artist, his dad still had a lot of her paintings and Jillian remembers her too.
After a few bumps in the road, Jillian and Raine finally get to where they belong.
I don't want to give out too many spoilers so I will just say this was a really good book and if your looking for a romance book with a little smut with a very good story, this is another one to add to your list!
*I would like to thank Kim Miller-Author Publicist, and Collins-Young Publishing for a print copy of this book through The Reading Room in exchange for my honest review.*
Well here is another pleasant surprise in books. And I have to admit, I did judge the book by it's cover when I first signed up for it :-)
This is book is about Jillian who is a forty-two-year-old romance writer. She lost her husband and several other family members that she loved and she doesn't feel like there is anything out there left for her and she's scared. All she has is her older sister Kitty after they lose the last living relative.
One day when Jillian is leaving the hospital she has to ask a landscaping company to move their truck so she could get by and lo and behold - she meets Raine! Sexy, handsome, considerate Raine. He's only twenty-four but we don't find that out until a little later. Jillian knows he's young and she also knows he will make a perfect cover for the current book she is writing. Jillian makes him a proposition to model for some photo's, she's a photographer as well, and he agrees. Of course she then has to get in an argument with her agent about getting the publishing company to let her design her own book cover. Good times.
I loved how the chemistry between Raine and Jillian moves slowly through out the book and how they are so perfect for each other despite their age. I mean old arse men can date young arse women so get over it! Anyhoo, when they do finally get their thing on, it's pretty intense! to say the least.
I mean it is very erotic but very good because that is not all the book is about. Well, one part did gross me out that has to do with a sac but I'm not going there <---
Jillian and Raine both have baggage from their pasts, Raine's not all being in the past. I explained how Jillian has lost so many people, but Raine lost his mother when he was a little younger and his father was abusive to him until he finally got away from him. Unfortunately, Raine had to live with his father for a little bit until Raine ended up in the hospital and Jillian moved him in with her. I thought Raine's father was a horrible person, but things don't always turn out as they seem. Yes, the father did have problems back in the day but certain things he did had a reason behind it and it was really sad. Raine's mom was a famous fashion model and an artist, his dad still had a lot of her paintings and Jillian remembers her too.
After a few bumps in the road, Jillian and Raine finally get to where they belong.
I don't want to give out too many spoilers so I will just say this was a really good book and if your looking for a romance book with a little smut with a very good story, this is another one to add to your list!
*I would like to thank Kim Miller-Author Publicist, and Collins-Young Publishing for a print copy of this book through The Reading Room in exchange for my honest review.*
April 18, 2016
Kitty's review posted at Guilty Pleasures Book Reviews
3.5 stars
A May to December romance … Interesting but strange, at times. I guess that’s the best way to describe this story. I was a little bit put off in the beginning and then kind of got into the story.
You know you can really tell when two characters should and will “click” in a story. I didn’t really get that with Raine and Jillian. Jillian’s first glimpse of Raine has her thinking that it’s her deceased boyfriend and she immediately offer’s him a job as a cover model for her next book. And, since circumstances have him in dire need of money, he agrees. I am still not sure where, in the book, she started seeing Raine for himself and not Drew. It was all of a sudden and there was no explanation as to why … it kind of just came out that she knew she was with Raine and not Drew. And, it happened as she was writing a book about her life with Drew¬¬¬, drawing on her old diaries for inspiration. She also ran hot and cold throughout the book … with her family, with Raine … the only person she was really consistent with was her Editor, Brigitte.
As for Raine, he had one hell of a life filled with a lot of challenges. Let’s start with the ex-girlfriend. Talk about a volatile relationship. Usually, two people who yell and scream at each other, get upset when they show up with another person, are still in love. It confused me that he got so worked up when Vanessa showed up at the bar to give him an envelope that came for him and he got pissed that she was with another man. Yet, he was sure hell bent on getting into Jillian’s pants. Then there was his father and his past relationship with him. Now, I could understand his feelings for him and wanting to stay as far away from him as possible. But, when the inevitable happened, he’s released from the hospital into Jillian’s care and agrees to move into her house so that he doesn’t have to go back there. This is very early on in the story and just confused me. He also, several times in the story, came off as extremely childish. He wants a relationship with an older woman but pouts when he doesn’t get his way. Unfortunately, even though he was hot, he turned me off.
I also had a problem with the flow and predictability of the story. Things just happened very quick and you kind of knew where things were going to go. I felt that Vanessa was thrown in for shock value and really had nothing to do with Raine and Jillian. The story would not have suffered if she was left out of it. There was the mystery of the “ring” that you knew was going to end up on Jillian’s hand. As for how the story ended, it was a wonderful, romantic gesture on the part of Jillian but, predictable.
This is the first time I am reading L.G. O’Conner and this is her first venture into this genre. From what I have seen and heard, her Urban Fantasy/Paranormal series is really very good and interesting. I think Caught Up In Raine would have been a really nice story without all the other distractions in the book, if Raine were a little more mature, if he truly accepted Jillian for who she was; if Jillian’s POV, her feelings and actions were more thought out … there were times that she did come off as more of his mother than lover.
Review copy provided for an honest review.
3.5 stars
A May to December romance … Interesting but strange, at times. I guess that’s the best way to describe this story. I was a little bit put off in the beginning and then kind of got into the story.
You know you can really tell when two characters should and will “click” in a story. I didn’t really get that with Raine and Jillian. Jillian’s first glimpse of Raine has her thinking that it’s her deceased boyfriend and she immediately offer’s him a job as a cover model for her next book. And, since circumstances have him in dire need of money, he agrees. I am still not sure where, in the book, she started seeing Raine for himself and not Drew. It was all of a sudden and there was no explanation as to why … it kind of just came out that she knew she was with Raine and not Drew. And, it happened as she was writing a book about her life with Drew¬¬¬, drawing on her old diaries for inspiration. She also ran hot and cold throughout the book … with her family, with Raine … the only person she was really consistent with was her Editor, Brigitte.
As for Raine, he had one hell of a life filled with a lot of challenges. Let’s start with the ex-girlfriend. Talk about a volatile relationship. Usually, two people who yell and scream at each other, get upset when they show up with another person, are still in love. It confused me that he got so worked up when Vanessa showed up at the bar to give him an envelope that came for him and he got pissed that she was with another man. Yet, he was sure hell bent on getting into Jillian’s pants. Then there was his father and his past relationship with him. Now, I could understand his feelings for him and wanting to stay as far away from him as possible. But, when the inevitable happened, he’s released from the hospital into Jillian’s care and agrees to move into her house so that he doesn’t have to go back there. This is very early on in the story and just confused me. He also, several times in the story, came off as extremely childish. He wants a relationship with an older woman but pouts when he doesn’t get his way. Unfortunately, even though he was hot, he turned me off.
I also had a problem with the flow and predictability of the story. Things just happened very quick and you kind of knew where things were going to go. I felt that Vanessa was thrown in for shock value and really had nothing to do with Raine and Jillian. The story would not have suffered if she was left out of it. There was the mystery of the “ring” that you knew was going to end up on Jillian’s hand. As for how the story ended, it was a wonderful, romantic gesture on the part of Jillian but, predictable.
This is the first time I am reading L.G. O’Conner and this is her first venture into this genre. From what I have seen and heard, her Urban Fantasy/Paranormal series is really very good and interesting. I think Caught Up In Raine would have been a really nice story without all the other distractions in the book, if Raine were a little more mature, if he truly accepted Jillian for who she was; if Jillian’s POV, her feelings and actions were more thought out … there were times that she did come off as more of his mother than lover.
Review copy provided for an honest review.
May 5, 2016
Reviewed for herding cats & burning soup.
Amazon: http://amzn.to/1XEIYUc
So Caught Up In Raine one was going pretty well...until it wasn't. The quick of it is that Jillian is an author and one day after a visit with her aunt she runs into a young man who's not only perfect for her upcoming book cover but is the spitting image of the first love she lost in an accident years earlier. And on a whim she asks him to be her cover model. There's an instant attraction despite the many years separating them and one thing leads to another and, well, naughty things commence!
Alright the good stuff?
I loved the hero, Raine. He's a young guy that has been through hell many times over and yet never gives up. Hard working and solid. He's the kind of guy you could easily fall for and would make a girl go all goofy without even trying. And Jillian was good for the most part, as well. She's suffered many losses in her life and struggles with it something fierce. It was good seeing her live a little and do something unexpected. I liked that she was a writer as well. Always fun :)
And I like them together. There's an 18 year age gap-- he's 24, she's 42. And it could bring an interesting dynamic as they got to know each other and dealt with both their feelings and how society saw them. The age gap was more an issue for her until he put her in his place which I appreciated. They were sweet and steamy in equal turns and brought out the good bits in each other.
The sex scenes were nice but I totally rolled my eyes at his #Supercock and them having full out energetic sex days after he's broken his ribs. Um...no. lol
Now the issue...
This came in towards the end when the author opted to bring in a SERIOUS plot device. It felt out of place and just didn't work at all. I lost all respect for the heroine and both her attitude and behavior. Things worked out after a while but it happened so close to the end of the book she was never able to recover in my eyes. She didn't even have a good grovel to try and make things right with him. Meh. So that took this down to a generous 3 stars for me since I left the book feeling less than satisfied. I may edit that down to a 2-2.5. Not sure. I enjoyed the earlier parts of the book so trying to keep that in mind. But at 1am I'm going to bed a very unsatisfied reader despite a HEA :/
September 6, 2016
This book is so much more than the typical May/December romance; that is only a piece of the puzzle of Caught Up In Raine. Jillian and Raine’s relationship is complicated, and messy and they both come to the relationship with baggage (actual baggage not the perceived baggage we get so often in romance). This was an excellent start to L.G. O’Connell’s new series and I’ll be patiently/not-so-patiently waiting for the rest of the books.
The Good
-It’s so refreshing to read vulnerable characters. Although we get weak/fragile heroines in romance, it’s always intriguing to read heros who are struggling and vulnerable in some way. Raine’s character felt unprotected in certain scenes of the book but came across as so physically-strong and emotionally-mature in others. The dichotomy of Raine’s situation and personality really made for an excellent story and such great tension.
-L.G. O’Connell’s writing style really shone in this book. Caught Up In Raine covers a lot of ground and emotion, but I didn’t feel bogged down in the weeds on this one. I appreciated that it wasn’t overly wordy and maintained a steady flow. Never once did I feel myself starting to skim, but I didn’t feel rushed either.
-It’s always nice to read a book a contemporary that takes you to a different place. This book transported me to Jillian’s house, the beach house and the hospital. So often I feel like the “world building” or “setting the stage” in contemporaries is lacking, I didn’t get that sense at all with Caught Up In Raine.
The Bad
-The initial meet-cute between Jillian and Raine and the first few scenes between them worried me. Although Jillian’s feelings for Raine took on a life of their own, her initial attraction to him through the lense of Drew really troubled me. It was hard to read honestly. I was very worried for Raine! If you start the book and feel the same way, push on.
The Unique
-There aren’t a lot of May/December romances out there when the woman is the older lover. O’Connell’s take on the May/December trope is especially unique since Jillian is not the typical “cougar”, she isn’t looking for a younger man. Jillian’s hesitation to pursue Raine and her battle to come to grips with their relationship had me rooting for their HEA once I got over the initial bumps in their relationship.
[I received an ARC of this book in exchange for an honest review. This does not affect my opinion of of the book or the content of my review.]
The Good
-It’s so refreshing to read vulnerable characters. Although we get weak/fragile heroines in romance, it’s always intriguing to read heros who are struggling and vulnerable in some way. Raine’s character felt unprotected in certain scenes of the book but came across as so physically-strong and emotionally-mature in others. The dichotomy of Raine’s situation and personality really made for an excellent story and such great tension.
-L.G. O’Connell’s writing style really shone in this book. Caught Up In Raine covers a lot of ground and emotion, but I didn’t feel bogged down in the weeds on this one. I appreciated that it wasn’t overly wordy and maintained a steady flow. Never once did I feel myself starting to skim, but I didn’t feel rushed either.
-It’s always nice to read a book a contemporary that takes you to a different place. This book transported me to Jillian’s house, the beach house and the hospital. So often I feel like the “world building” or “setting the stage” in contemporaries is lacking, I didn’t get that sense at all with Caught Up In Raine.
The Bad
-The initial meet-cute between Jillian and Raine and the first few scenes between them worried me. Although Jillian’s feelings for Raine took on a life of their own, her initial attraction to him through the lense of Drew really troubled me. It was hard to read honestly. I was very worried for Raine! If you start the book and feel the same way, push on.
The Unique
-There aren’t a lot of May/December romances out there when the woman is the older lover. O’Connell’s take on the May/December trope is especially unique since Jillian is not the typical “cougar”, she isn’t looking for a younger man. Jillian’s hesitation to pursue Raine and her battle to come to grips with their relationship had me rooting for their HEA once I got over the initial bumps in their relationship.
[I received an ARC of this book in exchange for an honest review. This does not affect my opinion of of the book or the content of my review.]
June 1, 2016
This is my first L.G. O'Connor book and wont be my last, This book grabbed me and wouldn't let me go. This is a heartwarming story of a May/December romance with the woman being the older of the two. Jillian is a widow who has been trying to get back into the dating scene by going on line. That is not working for her at all. She's also an author and photographer who has most of her life together if people she cared about would just quit dying.
Her first love died while she was driving ending their happily ever after. She finally married and had a good life until her husband also died two years ago. Right now her aunt is in the hospital and she is having to be there for her. Plus trying to meet the deadline for her book she is writing. Leaving the hospital she sees a guy that is an exact copy of her first love and also the hero of her book she is writing, She asks him to be a cover model for her book and as they say the rest is history.
Raine has so many problems with ex girlfriends and an insane father while trying to finish school. When his Father beats him up over something he accuses him of stealing and Raine ends up in the hospital with no ID they call the only contact he has on him, Jillian. She offers him a place to stay and they learn to love together.
I found myself laughing at her insecurities because he was so quick to correct them and make her see that they were just that. Then I would find myself crying because they were so good together and I wanted a relationship like that. I got caught up in Raine too. Jillian was one lucky woman to find a soul mate that so perfectly matched her. Age means nothing and this story brings that out. I loved this book way more then I thought I would.
I highly recommend this book!
*A Book Obsessed Chicks Review Team Selection*
Her first love died while she was driving ending their happily ever after. She finally married and had a good life until her husband also died two years ago. Right now her aunt is in the hospital and she is having to be there for her. Plus trying to meet the deadline for her book she is writing. Leaving the hospital she sees a guy that is an exact copy of her first love and also the hero of her book she is writing, She asks him to be a cover model for her book and as they say the rest is history.
Raine has so many problems with ex girlfriends and an insane father while trying to finish school. When his Father beats him up over something he accuses him of stealing and Raine ends up in the hospital with no ID they call the only contact he has on him, Jillian. She offers him a place to stay and they learn to love together.
I found myself laughing at her insecurities because he was so quick to correct them and make her see that they were just that. Then I would find myself crying because they were so good together and I wanted a relationship like that. I got caught up in Raine too. Jillian was one lucky woman to find a soul mate that so perfectly matched her. Age means nothing and this story brings that out. I loved this book way more then I thought I would.
I highly recommend this book!
*A Book Obsessed Chicks Review Team Selection*
February 6, 2018
I received a kindle copy of this book through a giveaway and am giving an honest review of the item in return.
I'm having a hard time trying to understand why I didn't like this book as much as I thought I would. I liked the premise of it and I like stories where the older woman falls for the younger guy which is why I'm so confused. It starts off well which is why I was practically devouring it at first but then it seemed to slow down on me and I lost some interest. There was a character or two that, had they been left out, would not have affected the story in any way. I also felt as if the way Raine's father was written and given to react, it made him seem mostly unrealistic. The twist concerning his father and why he treated Raine the way he did could've been left out since it didn't really change anything. The heroine's niece and sister were hot and cold for me; I didn't understand what to feel about them throughout most of the book. It just felt like the book was all over the place and more than quite a few bits of it were impractical.
The end didn't help any, in my opinion. Once Jillian discovers something about herself in the last few chapters, both her and Raine's characters immediately took a nose dive with the way they reacted, to the point that I thought they were just better off without each other.
Basically, the book started off strong and slowly went downhill for me. I doubt I will read the other books in this series though I might check out the author's supernatural series since I've seen pretty good reviews for that.
I'm having a hard time trying to understand why I didn't like this book as much as I thought I would. I liked the premise of it and I like stories where the older woman falls for the younger guy which is why I'm so confused. It starts off well which is why I was practically devouring it at first but then it seemed to slow down on me and I lost some interest. There was a character or two that, had they been left out, would not have affected the story in any way. I also felt as if the way Raine's father was written and given to react, it made him seem mostly unrealistic. The twist concerning his father and why he treated Raine the way he did could've been left out since it didn't really change anything. The heroine's niece and sister were hot and cold for me; I didn't understand what to feel about them throughout most of the book. It just felt like the book was all over the place and more than quite a few bits of it were impractical.
The end didn't help any, in my opinion. Once Jillian discovers something about herself in the last few chapters, both her and Raine's characters immediately took a nose dive with the way they reacted, to the point that I thought they were just better off without each other.
Basically, the book started off strong and slowly went downhill for me. I doubt I will read the other books in this series though I might check out the author's supernatural series since I've seen pretty good reviews for that.
February 4, 2016
For some reason I just couldn’t get into this book. I thought it had wonderful characters and a wonderful plot. I thought it started out to slow and just moved to slow for me throughout. I did have a hard time with the age gap being closer to her age than his it was hard to put myself in their shoes. There were some very emotional touching scenes that reach out and grab your heart. There were many good parts. I can’t say there was anything bad I just didn’t connect with the characters. I honestly do not think it was due to the author or her story I feel it was me and might have been more that I wasn’t in the mood for this type of story.
The characters come together as employee, than friends and move to lovers. They each need a second chance. There are times when Jillian will let the age gap get in the way. There are times you just want to yell at her and say go with it, get over it. We can’t really pick who we are attracted to or fall for. It has some great turns and twist. The characters are believable along with the plot.
I do plan to give this another read when I am more in the mood for this type of book. I feel I cannot give it justice that it and the author deserve. I hope you will pick it up and give it a read I feel that a lot of people will love it as well as be moved by it.
The characters come together as employee, than friends and move to lovers. They each need a second chance. There are times when Jillian will let the age gap get in the way. There are times you just want to yell at her and say go with it, get over it. We can’t really pick who we are attracted to or fall for. It has some great turns and twist. The characters are believable along with the plot.
I do plan to give this another read when I am more in the mood for this type of book. I feel I cannot give it justice that it and the author deserve. I hope you will pick it up and give it a read I feel that a lot of people will love it as well as be moved by it.
July 1, 2016
Jillian Grant has been through loss.Raine MacDonald has suffered pain and heartache. A chance encounter brings the two together.Jillian spots Raine and would like to use him as a cover model on the book she is writing.Raine excepts,he needs money for college.Jillian is haunted by Raines resemblance to her lost love,Drew. The two connect on many levels,but the age difference bothers Jillian,she is older than Raine.They both agree they want to try more then just friendship.Both have their secrets and learn to be truthful with the other.Raines estranged father shows up and causes problems.Jillian starts having health issues and pulls away from Raine. A misunderstanding tears them apart,until Jillians friend intervenes. Secrets are revealed. I enjoyed this story. A Book Obsessed Chicks Review Selection.
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June 23, 2016CAUGHT UP IN RAINE is a well-written and emotionally raw story of two people who have been grievously hurt finding true love. Romance novelist Jillian Grant believes life is loss, having death steal her loved ones since she was young – most recently her husband. Now her aunt is critically ill and leaving the hospital one day, she spots Raine MacDonald who is the spit and image of an old flame. She asks Raine to be her cover model for her new book and he agrees – which leads them begin to a relationship neither thought they deserved. CAUGHT UP IN RAINE is a heart-melting story of loss, love, and discovering your true self. I didn’t expect to be so deeply affected by this story, but Jillian and Raine truly stole my heart.
September 8, 2016
I do believe there are old souls and for the most part age is just a number, especially in Raine’s case. He and Jillian are so in tune with each other it is hard to believe they are almost two decades apart. I feel, the way Jillian wants to hold on to her pain instead of opening up to Raine is much more telling of their differences. The tears and joys Raine and Jillian share has your heart aching for them to make it work against all odds.
Lototy
Reviewer for Coffee Time Romance & More
Official Review @ Coffee Time Romance & More
Lototy
Reviewer for Coffee Time Romance & More
Official Review @ Coffee Time Romance & More
April 22, 2016
If you're looking for a great vacation read, look no further! LGO never disappoints, which is why she's the only romance writer I read and why I'm the self-appointed president of her fan club! And if you haven't read her Angelorum trilogy you're in for a treat. I was totally caught up in Raine and would have read it in 2 or 3 nights but I was on a road trip and was unable to read. Now I'm ready to tackle Raine's recipes while I wait for the next book in the trilogy, although I wish I had a personal trainer like Raine to, ahem, tackle instead. Rock on, Liz!
April 19, 2016
I enjoyed this story of an older woman and a younger man. Raine is more mature than others his age because of his home life. He knows what he wants and is willing to go for it. Jillian has decided to take a chance. Despite some misunderstandings, they take that journey to learn about themselves and each other. This book had me in tears (for their joy and their pain) as well as a little laugh here and there. I recommend this book highly.
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