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The Heart of It
On the outside rich and successful Gabe Peterson has everything.
No one would guess the ghosts from his past are tearing him apart.
Desperate, he reaches out to Elena – a resilient call girl, with her own childhood scars – for help.
In their moments of honesty, the two forge the most surprising relationship of their lives.
But will they be brave enough to make it into something more?
NOTE: Originally published in the Summer Rain Anthology.
No one would guess the ghosts from his past are tearing him apart.
Desperate, he reaches out to Elena – a resilient call girl, with her own childhood scars – for help.
In their moments of honesty, the two forge the most surprising relationship of their lives.
But will they be brave enough to make it into something more?
NOTE: Originally published in the Summer Rain Anthology.
70 pages, ebook
First published February 29, 2016
146 people are currently reading
1073 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 135 reviews
February 3, 2016
5 **so beautiful** STARS
My first thought was...this is very weird. I went in completely blind and I made it to about 18% before I had to read the blurb and sneak a peek at some reviews. It made more sense after that. ;D By the end of this story I was head over heels in love. Really a special little gem I can only recommend picking up.
The Heart of It is a very quick, but instensly gripping, thoughtful and phenomenally written novella about two people finding each other and building a connection despite their circumstances and their past. One hint. Rich guy and call girl meet in a bar. Yeah. It was good and I can promise you it's not what you are thinking right now either.
I'm inclined to tell everyone to go in mostly blind as well, because the discovery is half the fun, isn't it? Just know you won't be disappointed, at all.
I have read Ms. O'Keefe's books before and with every new one I fall even more in love with her writing, as well as her unique stories. It's a very poetic style, that flows beautifully and sucks you in within seconds. An author to look out for. Truly!
Last but not least, I just have to mention it. This is the second time in a row a books ends before it should...77%? Why? I want more. Granted, the story can stand on its own like this, but there is always room for exploration, right?
**ARC very kindly provided by author in exchange for an honest review.
My first thought was...this is very weird. I went in completely blind and I made it to about 18% before I had to read the blurb and sneak a peek at some reviews. It made more sense after that. ;D By the end of this story I was head over heels in love. Really a special little gem I can only recommend picking up.
The Heart of It is a very quick, but instensly gripping, thoughtful and phenomenally written novella about two people finding each other and building a connection despite their circumstances and their past. One hint. Rich guy and call girl meet in a bar. Yeah. It was good and I can promise you it's not what you are thinking right now either.
I'm inclined to tell everyone to go in mostly blind as well, because the discovery is half the fun, isn't it? Just know you won't be disappointed, at all.
I have read Ms. O'Keefe's books before and with every new one I fall even more in love with her writing, as well as her unique stories. It's a very poetic style, that flows beautifully and sucks you in within seconds. An author to look out for. Truly!
Last but not least, I just have to mention it. This is the second time in a row a books ends before it should...77%? Why? I want more. Granted, the story can stand on its own like this, but there is always room for exploration, right?
**ARC very kindly provided by author in exchange for an honest review.
February 29, 2016
3.5 STARS
”Everything has a bright side.”
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Molly O’Keefe delivers a short but sweet read that to my surprise ends at 77 percent which is location 735 on my device. Still, the story had depth, heart, and likable characters. I can’t not mention the hot cover which had me one clicking without even reading the synopsis. I'm totally guilty and I’m not even sorry.
A sexual victim works through a boundary that has been holding him back with the girl for hire that he has been crushing on. They both use their last encounter to propel their lives forward positively and the end was sweet. My issue, the story just ended a bit too quickly even for a novella.
”He’s a fucked up person in a world of fucked up people. Do not get all hooker-with-a-heart-of-gold over this. But he’s so damn sweet. And sad.”
”Everything has a bright side.”
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Molly O’Keefe delivers a short but sweet read that to my surprise ends at 77 percent which is location 735 on my device. Still, the story had depth, heart, and likable characters. I can’t not mention the hot cover which had me one clicking without even reading the synopsis. I'm totally guilty and I’m not even sorry.
A sexual victim works through a boundary that has been holding him back with the girl for hire that he has been crushing on. They both use their last encounter to propel their lives forward positively and the end was sweet. My issue, the story just ended a bit too quickly even for a novella.
”He’s a fucked up person in a world of fucked up people. Do not get all hooker-with-a-heart-of-gold over this. But he’s so damn sweet. And sad.”
February 29, 2016
LIVE http://amzn.to/21veOsK
5 STARS
Since Everything I Left Unsaid was one of my favorite books for 2015 you can imagine my excitement when I got an ARC for this novella. I devoured it, I was hooked from the first page and I didn't want to put it down! Once I finished it I was happy but also sad that it was over. With authors like Molly O' Keefe you can't stick to only one book you keep wanting more and more! Her writing is original, brilliant and poetic! Her characters are unique and captivating. She knows exactly how to create amazing characters with a broken past. Honestly I wish there was more! I'm even more eager now to see what else Molly O' Keefe has ready for us!
*An advance reading copy was generously provided to me in exchange for an honest review.*
5 STARS
Since Everything I Left Unsaid was one of my favorite books for 2015 you can imagine my excitement when I got an ARC for this novella. I devoured it, I was hooked from the first page and I didn't want to put it down! Once I finished it I was happy but also sad that it was over. With authors like Molly O' Keefe you can't stick to only one book you keep wanting more and more! Her writing is original, brilliant and poetic! Her characters are unique and captivating. She knows exactly how to create amazing characters with a broken past. Honestly I wish there was more! I'm even more eager now to see what else Molly O' Keefe has ready for us!
*An advance reading copy was generously provided to me in exchange for an honest review.*
February 23, 2016
4.5 Stars
Can you write a heartfelt and poignant story full of steam and emotion in under 70 pages? If you're Molly O'Keefe not only can you, but you do it effortlessly. The Heart of It is a must read for any fans of this author. It's captivating and erotic; full of feeling and emotion. It's short but satisfying and yet still left me craving more; not because it was lacking, but because I just didn't want it to end. I don't believe I've ever rated a novella so highly in all my reading experience. Not only am I rating it for the wonderful story, but the mere fact that the author managed to pack in as much development and emotion as she did in these few short pages.
The characters are so well developed they practically leap from the pages. Considering the subject matter it touches on, I was blown away at just how much this author accomplished with just 67 pages. It's a beautiful story of healing. A story of meeting that one person that finally changes everything. Elena and Gabe couldn't be more different. Heck, they practically live on opposite ends of the world for all the differences between them. A high class escort and a successful author of children's books that's haunted by the demons of his past share an experience together that irrevocably changes them both.
Miss O'Keefe does an incredible job laying the foundation of a truly broken man for the readers. Gabe is no perfect in any means even while he may live the picture perfect life on the outside. He's a man with a past that won't let go of his present. He's a man that hopes to find some solace in the arms of a beautiful escort if only for one night. I loved how endearing his imperfections came across. You can't help but fall for him and want to heal all his emotional scars. He was this gentle giant that was just perfectly imperfect. Elena has scars of her own from the past, but she's a heroine I connected with right away. She's strong in an understated way. She doesn't flaunt herself, but she owns her sexuality. Both of these characters were simply refreshing in their originality.
What a wonderful treat the author has written for her fans. I only wish it was longer.
If you haven't read anything by Molly O'Keefe yet, but enjoy novellas by Cara McKenna and Anne Calhoun, this is an author you'll want to check out. Trust me on that.
ARC courtesy of author in exchange for an honest review
Graphic is stock purchased and created by me for DGR blog. Please don't share without permission
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He was a bag of lies and half-truths and she was without counterfeit. There could have been a hundred women sitting at this bar and he would have only seen her and the brilliant truth of her.
Can you write a heartfelt and poignant story full of steam and emotion in under 70 pages? If you're Molly O'Keefe not only can you, but you do it effortlessly. The Heart of It is a must read for any fans of this author. It's captivating and erotic; full of feeling and emotion. It's short but satisfying and yet still left me craving more; not because it was lacking, but because I just didn't want it to end. I don't believe I've ever rated a novella so highly in all my reading experience. Not only am I rating it for the wonderful story, but the mere fact that the author managed to pack in as much development and emotion as she did in these few short pages.
The characters are so well developed they practically leap from the pages. Considering the subject matter it touches on, I was blown away at just how much this author accomplished with just 67 pages. It's a beautiful story of healing. A story of meeting that one person that finally changes everything. Elena and Gabe couldn't be more different. Heck, they practically live on opposite ends of the world for all the differences between them. A high class escort and a successful author of children's books that's haunted by the demons of his past share an experience together that irrevocably changes them both.
Miss O'Keefe does an incredible job laying the foundation of a truly broken man for the readers. Gabe is no perfect in any means even while he may live the picture perfect life on the outside. He's a man with a past that won't let go of his present. He's a man that hopes to find some solace in the arms of a beautiful escort if only for one night. I loved how endearing his imperfections came across. You can't help but fall for him and want to heal all his emotional scars. He was this gentle giant that was just perfectly imperfect. Elena has scars of her own from the past, but she's a heroine I connected with right away. She's strong in an understated way. She doesn't flaunt herself, but she owns her sexuality. Both of these characters were simply refreshing in their originality.
What a wonderful treat the author has written for her fans. I only wish it was longer.
If you haven't read anything by Molly O'Keefe yet, but enjoy novellas by Cara McKenna and Anne Calhoun, this is an author you'll want to check out. Trust me on that.
ARC courtesy of author in exchange for an honest review
Graphic is stock purchased and created by me for DGR blog. Please don't share without permission
Find me on:
February 12, 2016
Title: The Heart of It
Series: Standalone Novella
Author: Molly O'Keefe
Release date: 29th February, 2016
Cliffhanger: No
HEA:
With my short career as a reader of Molly's, I'm so impressed by her style of storytelling. She writes damaged characters so well. She has the ability to bring forth the beauty in her protagonists, who have lived through ugly experiences. Not only does this highlight their strength of character, but also makes what could be a depressing topic, one the reader wants to journey through with them.
Gabe is a successful children's author, from the outset his vulnerability was his most noticeable and endearing characteristic. Although a seemingly well adjusted adult, the repercussions of his childhood see Gabe look to Elena as some form of therapy.
It quickly becomes apparent their liaison goes beyond that of escort and client. Elena is an astute character, she knows Gabe's intentions go beyond the physical. She was patient and honest with him and I really liked her for that. In some ways Gabe & Elena are kindred spirits. Like him, Elena has also been let down by an important figure growing up and she can relate to him in more ways than he can appreciate.
Although a short novella, The Heart of It tells a vivid and through story. That said, I would welcome any decision made to expand on their story.
Molly is a writer who has the capability of ensnaring readers into her stories from the first few pages. Everything I Left Unsaid and The Truth About Him are proof of this, once again Molly further compounds this fact with, The Heart of It.
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September 12, 2018
4.5/5
Poignant, emotional, heart-wrenching, yet truly beautiful.
The Heart of It was a short story that gave me a lot more than I expected. I enjoyed the plot, the characters, and also the pace. The ending was simply perfect—couldn’t ask for a better one.
Highly recommended!
**It's now free on Amazon.
Poignant, emotional, heart-wrenching, yet truly beautiful.
The Heart of It was a short story that gave me a lot more than I expected. I enjoyed the plot, the characters, and also the pace. The ending was simply perfect—couldn’t ask for a better one.
Highly recommended!
**It's now free on Amazon.
February 28, 2016
Sorry for you, if you have not read it, yet ...
Sorry for you, because if you read, I sure you want more...
Two damaged heroes. One short romantic story with such a good theme that I'm terribly sad that it is not longer. I would have wished to read such books in full length. If you go into this blind the beginning is a highly confusing. But when you read further everything jumps into the place.
Gabe Paterson is a popular and successful author, but his past puts a dark color on his life. He is trying to deal with that problem, and in this way he meets Elena. At one of their meetings they start the most honest conversation that they ever had, and reveal their deepest secrets. They catch real connection together, which could have a lot of possibilities if only they could be brave enough.
Although it is a short story everything has its place and is well developed. In such small words, Molly create a real emotions and feelings. The heroes are complex and have moving stories to tell. They are genuine and you can't not cheer for them. It's easy to fall in love with this unique and profound story and its heroes. I wish I could read more. I'm sure that there can still be a lot of beautiful words to write.
***
ARC kindly provided in exchange for an honest review.
Follow me on Facebook or Twitter. Thank you!
Sorry for you, because if you read, I sure you want more...
Two damaged heroes. One short romantic story with such a good theme that I'm terribly sad that it is not longer. I would have wished to read such books in full length. If you go into this blind the beginning is a highly confusing. But when you read further everything jumps into the place.
Gabe Paterson is a popular and successful author, but his past puts a dark color on his life. He is trying to deal with that problem, and in this way he meets Elena. At one of their meetings they start the most honest conversation that they ever had, and reveal their deepest secrets. They catch real connection together, which could have a lot of possibilities if only they could be brave enough.
Although it is a short story everything has its place and is well developed. In such small words, Molly create a real emotions and feelings. The heroes are complex and have moving stories to tell. They are genuine and you can't not cheer for them. It's easy to fall in love with this unique and profound story and its heroes. I wish I could read more. I'm sure that there can still be a lot of beautiful words to write.
***
ARC kindly provided in exchange for an honest review.
Follow me on Facebook or Twitter. Thank you!
February 4, 2024
this story was a whirlwind of emotions but unfortunately left me unimpressed.
✯¸.•´*¨`*• ꕤ•*`¨*`•.¸✯
this started off confusing, then it got deep out of nowhere and just when I was getting into the characters’ story they started to have sex.. and i don't even know what the rest was.
there was a lot of opportunity for a good story here. the mc’s both been through a lot, they meet in an unconventional way and there could be huge character development here. however, this being a 70 page novella, that didn’t happen.
i think when you get into themes of abuse, addiction, trust issues etc. you really need a few more pages to get it right.
overall, it felt rushed and the story just fell flat.
✯¸.•´*¨`*• ꕤ•*`¨*`•.¸✯
this started off confusing, then it got deep out of nowhere and just when I was getting into the characters’ story they started to have sex.. and i don't even know what the rest was.
there was a lot of opportunity for a good story here. the mc’s both been through a lot, they meet in an unconventional way and there could be huge character development here. however, this being a 70 page novella, that didn’t happen.
i think when you get into themes of abuse, addiction, trust issues etc. you really need a few more pages to get it right.
overall, it felt rushed and the story just fell flat.
August 12, 2016
3.5 Stars!
I was first introduced to Molly O'keefe with Everything I Left Unsaid and loved it. Ever since then I knew I just liked Molly's writing style and stories. When I saw The Heart of It, I was instantly pulled in by the cover. Yes, I'm one of those people who will pick up a book just because of the cover. Judge me all you want, but you can't argue that it's not a good cover.
Gabe is a successful children's book author. He doesn't go unnoticed, being over six feet tall, built and his red hair. One wouldn't be able to tell that he's still struggling from something that happened to him as a child. Hiring an escort, he meets her at a bar one night for a little flirting to ease into the situation before they go back to his room.
Elena has a bit of a troubled past too, so she recognizes the fear and hesitation he has and wants to help him. I loved how patient she was with him. Without even meaning to, he helps her too. A connection is formed between them, but will they be brave enough to act on them or cut all ties?
Molly packed so much heart into this short story, leaving me wanting more. Once you find out more about Gabe, I dare you not to fall for him too.
I was first introduced to Molly O'keefe with Everything I Left Unsaid and loved it. Ever since then I knew I just liked Molly's writing style and stories. When I saw The Heart of It, I was instantly pulled in by the cover. Yes, I'm one of those people who will pick up a book just because of the cover. Judge me all you want, but you can't argue that it's not a good cover.
Gabe is a successful children's book author. He doesn't go unnoticed, being over six feet tall, built and his red hair. One wouldn't be able to tell that he's still struggling from something that happened to him as a child. Hiring an escort, he meets her at a bar one night for a little flirting to ease into the situation before they go back to his room.
Elena has a bit of a troubled past too, so she recognizes the fear and hesitation he has and wants to help him. I loved how patient she was with him. Without even meaning to, he helps her too. A connection is formed between them, but will they be brave enough to act on them or cut all ties?
Molly packed so much heart into this short story, leaving me wanting more. Once you find out more about Gabe, I dare you not to fall for him too.
January 31, 2016
5 "I need more!!!!!" Stars!
Seriously, this is why I tend to loathe novellas! You take an author with the gift to write like Molly O'Keefe has, and you stick "novella" in her head and it's like going to an ice cream parlor anticipating a heaping bowl of goodness...and ending up getting a spoonful. I NEED MORE dammit! Ok, rant over...onto the review.
The Heart of It is a quickie story that highlights the premise of finding that one person in your life that makes a difference...the game changer. Elena is an escort when she meets Gabe as a client. What seems like a superficial, non-important on the scope of life "relationship" is so much more to him... And in the end, to her. It just takes that one to slay the demons that have haunted Gabe since youth. Not money, not success, nothing...until Elena.
The Heart of It is just different than a lot of book tropes I've read. And I had no clue Molly O'Keefe could write so poetically. It's artistic and beautiful; erotic yet touching; meaningful and addictive.
Just beware, it ends at 77%. If I can say one thing about this book, it's proof positive she needs to expound on their "love" story. The gripping love story is 100% there, I just want more...please.
Advanced copy received by author in exchange for my honest review.
Seriously, this is why I tend to loathe novellas! You take an author with the gift to write like Molly O'Keefe has, and you stick "novella" in her head and it's like going to an ice cream parlor anticipating a heaping bowl of goodness...and ending up getting a spoonful. I NEED MORE dammit! Ok, rant over...onto the review.
The Heart of It is a quickie story that highlights the premise of finding that one person in your life that makes a difference...the game changer. Elena is an escort when she meets Gabe as a client. What seems like a superficial, non-important on the scope of life "relationship" is so much more to him... And in the end, to her. It just takes that one to slay the demons that have haunted Gabe since youth. Not money, not success, nothing...until Elena.
The Heart of It is just different than a lot of book tropes I've read. And I had no clue Molly O'Keefe could write so poetically. It's artistic and beautiful; erotic yet touching; meaningful and addictive.
Just beware, it ends at 77%. If I can say one thing about this book, it's proof positive she needs to expound on their "love" story. The gripping love story is 100% there, I just want more...please.
Advanced copy received by author in exchange for my honest review.
February 23, 2016
3.5 short, sweet, sexy, emotional and unexpected stars
After reading and falling in love with Everything I Left Unsaid last year, I was excited to be given the opportunity to read an ARC of this novella. I didn’t know anything going in, but this short story sucked me in, took me by surprise, and made me feel so much.
A gorgeous, wealthy man with dark demons hires an escort - their resulting encounter is nothing like either of them imagined, and turns out to be life-changing for them both. Sounds simple enough, but Molly O’Keefe has done a great job at putting so much story into such a short novella, and I loved it!
Admittedly, it was a little hard to get into in that first chapter, and I actually went back to restart it and just happened to catch the Author’s Note which had an explanation in it and from there things made more sense, and I was hooked.
(The gist of the story, for those who want it - .)
The story of Gabe and Elena is beautifully told with lots of emotion, and even for such a short read I became fully invested with the characters and felt everything right along with them. The fear and anxiety of their meeting, their opening up to each other and reveal of their painful pasts, the chemistry, the hotness, and the heartbreaking reason behind it all. In one amazing night they share so much of themselves, and the influence of that night goes on to change both of their lives.
This was a really unexpected little story. As it all unfolds I thought I knew where it was going to go, but it took me by surprise, and I thought it was really well done. The length doesn’t allow for a lot of detail, but I was satisfied the ending (though I would have been happy for more), and the feelings that Molly O’Keefe is able to incite in just a few short chapters is truly something special.
Sweet, sexy and unexpected with lots of heart, I really enjoyed this one.
3.5 stars.
An Advanced Review Copy was generously provided by the author in exchange for an honest review.
After reading and falling in love with Everything I Left Unsaid last year, I was excited to be given the opportunity to read an ARC of this novella. I didn’t know anything going in, but this short story sucked me in, took me by surprise, and made me feel so much.
A gorgeous, wealthy man with dark demons hires an escort - their resulting encounter is nothing like either of them imagined, and turns out to be life-changing for them both. Sounds simple enough, but Molly O’Keefe has done a great job at putting so much story into such a short novella, and I loved it!
Admittedly, it was a little hard to get into in that first chapter, and I actually went back to restart it and just happened to catch the Author’s Note which had an explanation in it and from there things made more sense, and I was hooked.
(The gist of the story, for those who want it - .)
The story of Gabe and Elena is beautifully told with lots of emotion, and even for such a short read I became fully invested with the characters and felt everything right along with them. The fear and anxiety of their meeting, their opening up to each other and reveal of their painful pasts, the chemistry, the hotness, and the heartbreaking reason behind it all. In one amazing night they share so much of themselves, and the influence of that night goes on to change both of their lives.
This was a really unexpected little story. As it all unfolds I thought I knew where it was going to go, but it took me by surprise, and I thought it was really well done. The length doesn’t allow for a lot of detail, but I was satisfied the ending (though I would have been happy for more), and the feelings that Molly O’Keefe is able to incite in just a few short chapters is truly something special.
Sweet, sexy and unexpected with lots of heart, I really enjoyed this one.
3.5 stars.
An Advanced Review Copy was generously provided by the author in exchange for an honest review.
May 11, 2017
Love the cover. I mean, it's delicious, yet beautiful. The book however....was not worth my time, not matter how short it is. 'The Heart Of It' just didn't make any sense, and the time jumping just didn't work for me. Hell, the whole story didn't work for me. I had high hopes for this one, that was crushed, but at least I got a wonderful cover to look at...
February 29, 2016
You know when you are reading a book and it’s amazing, and you can feel like it’s going to be a five-star read and you just sink into the story and smile and swoon and everything is great with the world?
This happened, but then the book ended – abruptly. Now – I knew this book was only 67 pages (per Goodreads). Towards the end of the book, we started skipping ahead – one week later, one month later, one year later. And then – bam, the end. And my kindle was at 77% and I wanted to cry and yell because I barely got to know these two and I needed to see them happy.
Gabe grew up and hockey was his passion – but after years of sexual abuse from his coach, he had to walk away. Counseling helped a bit, but now as a twenty-four year old, he has found his way back onto the ice, but not able to have sex with a woman unless he is completely drunk. Gabe is a gentle giant – huge, clumsy, awkward, and I just adored him. He ends up hiring a woman named Elena from an elite private escort company as a date to see if he can have sex sober. On their fourth “date” he tries really hard but freaks out again.
Elena trusts Gabe and knows he is a good guy, but battling some dark demons. When he is unable to have sex again with her, she forces him to talk. He admits things and is able to go through with the deed. Awwwww Gabe. But then he wants her to start admitting things – things with her family she doesn’t like to talk about and Elena is the one that gets scared off and leaves.
And then time jumps forward, and forward some more – and all of a sudden a year and a half has passed and they haven’t seen each other and then they see each other and the story ends.
And huh???
Wait – what about happy sex between them? What about a genuine date between them? What about Elena and her sister and their bad relationship??
We get teased with a brilliant emotional story – but it’s not enough.
Seriously an almost amazing read. Almost.
P.S – Molly O’Keefe is on my – omg I will read anything she writes list.
Grade: In my fantasy world where this is 350 pages, an A+. In reality, where this book is less than 60 pages, C+.
This happened, but then the book ended – abruptly. Now – I knew this book was only 67 pages (per Goodreads). Towards the end of the book, we started skipping ahead – one week later, one month later, one year later. And then – bam, the end. And my kindle was at 77% and I wanted to cry and yell because I barely got to know these two and I needed to see them happy.
Gabe grew up and hockey was his passion – but after years of sexual abuse from his coach, he had to walk away. Counseling helped a bit, but now as a twenty-four year old, he has found his way back onto the ice, but not able to have sex with a woman unless he is completely drunk. Gabe is a gentle giant – huge, clumsy, awkward, and I just adored him. He ends up hiring a woman named Elena from an elite private escort company as a date to see if he can have sex sober. On their fourth “date” he tries really hard but freaks out again.
Elena trusts Gabe and knows he is a good guy, but battling some dark demons. When he is unable to have sex again with her, she forces him to talk. He admits things and is able to go through with the deed. Awwwww Gabe. But then he wants her to start admitting things – things with her family she doesn’t like to talk about and Elena is the one that gets scared off and leaves.
And then time jumps forward, and forward some more – and all of a sudden a year and a half has passed and they haven’t seen each other and then they see each other and the story ends.
And huh???
Wait – what about happy sex between them? What about a genuine date between them? What about Elena and her sister and their bad relationship??
We get teased with a brilliant emotional story – but it’s not enough.
Seriously an almost amazing read. Almost.
P.S – Molly O’Keefe is on my – omg I will read anything she writes list.
Grade: In my fantasy world where this is 350 pages, an A+. In reality, where this book is less than 60 pages, C+.
April 27, 2016
ARC kindly provided in exchange for an honest review.
March 11, 2016
This was the short novella featured in the amazing SUMMER RAIN anthology. It will be available at the end of February!
February 11, 2016
The Heart of it.by M. O’Keefe is a 2016 publication. I was provided a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
This novella was originally a part of the ‘Summer Rain’ anthology, which raised money for RAINN (Rape, Abuse, Incest, National Network). Now, you can read Molly’s contribution to that anthology as a stand-alone.
This novella length story centers around the unusual way one man managed to overcome his issues with sex and relationships without resorting to substance abuse.
The unlikely pairing of a famous athlete and a good hearted prostitute was a unique approach to addressing some difficult and uncomfortable subject matter. Elena has her own crosses to bear, but her willingness to help Gabe, a man with the world at his feet, but struggling with some heavy issues, creates an unbreakable bond between them and opens the door for healing and restoration in their personal lives for a long time to come.
This is an interesting tale, with the powerful message of acceptance at the heart of it. Liking someone, caring for someone, no matter what is going on their lives, no matter how much money they make, or what their occupation or backstory is, can forge the most rewarding and honest relationships we can build.
Although the story is sort of a dark romance, which includes topics many would rather not address, I think it is worth checking out, especially since it does have a sweet message along with some wonderful character development. Gabe is forever changed by Elena and vice versa. Their relationship will be a solid one, no matter how they decide to proceed in in the future.
While this story is a little bit off beat and unusual, it’s a lesson in humanity and proves love and kindness can cross all boundaries, and that is what I liked most about it.
4 stars
This novella was originally a part of the ‘Summer Rain’ anthology, which raised money for RAINN (Rape, Abuse, Incest, National Network). Now, you can read Molly’s contribution to that anthology as a stand-alone.
This novella length story centers around the unusual way one man managed to overcome his issues with sex and relationships without resorting to substance abuse.
The unlikely pairing of a famous athlete and a good hearted prostitute was a unique approach to addressing some difficult and uncomfortable subject matter. Elena has her own crosses to bear, but her willingness to help Gabe, a man with the world at his feet, but struggling with some heavy issues, creates an unbreakable bond between them and opens the door for healing and restoration in their personal lives for a long time to come.
This is an interesting tale, with the powerful message of acceptance at the heart of it. Liking someone, caring for someone, no matter what is going on their lives, no matter how much money they make, or what their occupation or backstory is, can forge the most rewarding and honest relationships we can build.
Although the story is sort of a dark romance, which includes topics many would rather not address, I think it is worth checking out, especially since it does have a sweet message along with some wonderful character development. Gabe is forever changed by Elena and vice versa. Their relationship will be a solid one, no matter how they decide to proceed in in the future.
While this story is a little bit off beat and unusual, it’s a lesson in humanity and proves love and kindness can cross all boundaries, and that is what I liked most about it.
4 stars
August 14, 2018
This started out great and ended badly.
The start was really great. Great writing, great story line, overall great then it took a turn for the worse as the book neared its end. I know it's meant to be short but it honestly felt like the author put a lot of great effort into the start and then was told they had 5 minutes to finish it.
Which is a shame cause as I've said it started out really great.
Could have been great, but wasn't. 2 stars for me!
The start was really great. Great writing, great story line, overall great then it took a turn for the worse as the book neared its end. I know it's meant to be short but it honestly felt like the author put a lot of great effort into the start and then was told they had 5 minutes to finish it.
Which is a shame cause as I've said it started out really great.
Could have been great, but wasn't. 2 stars for me!
February 20, 2016
Tackling an emotional subject such as child abuse is difficult for any author but to be able to wrap the subject in and around a love story is a great talent indeed. Molly O’Keefe has a special touch with this story by choosing to address child abuse victims as they learn to care for another, learn how to enjoy pleasure, and how to love another person beyond their own feelings of inadequacy.
The short story is long in understanding as the author grasps how uncomfortable and unsure a victim would feel. But she has created the perfect partner for both of them. Very different people, but the same in many ways as they complement each other. In this story, there’s not a lot of passion, but there plenty of emotion, longing, and yearning for more along with hope for the future and even, perhaps, a beautiful happy ever after.
I would love to see this book expanded into a full length story to see how these two make it work together. Wonderful project, a beautiful story, plus the belief that there is healing and someone for everyone, regardless of the circumstances. Not to be missed!
February 29, 2016
What an intense short read about two lost souls, who find each other on an inconvenient way...
Elena was so exciting. But he felt like he was watching it. Not living it. And despite wanting this, wanting her, so bad he could taste it, he was aware of how close he was to that awful no-man’s-land between what his body wanted and what his head was terrified of.
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“Did you really think I’d hurt you?” “I go into dark rooms with men I don’t know,” she said. “There’s always that possibility.” “But the service I called, it’s so upscale—”
“Rich men like to hit women, too.”
Elena was so exciting. But he felt like he was watching it. Not living it. And despite wanting this, wanting her, so bad he could taste it, he was aware of how close he was to that awful no-man’s-land between what his body wanted and what his head was terrified of.
------------------------------------------------
“Did you really think I’d hurt you?” “I go into dark rooms with men I don’t know,” she said. “There’s always that possibility.” “But the service I called, it’s so upscale—”
“Rich men like to hit women, too.”
March 23, 2016
Went in completely blind and loved it so much. Thanks, Anna for introducing me to the book! <3
February 29, 2016
How to start a summary about such a short story without spoiling anything? ☺
It was a dark and rainy night in Toronto ☺
Gabe enters this bar on one of upper floors of a Hotel....hoping to meet ... her.
Elena.
He must've seen her before in there, but we don't know what's between them, or if he's just a bit of a stalker.
They talk - he tells her some truths, some lies....
But through it all he's scared, afraid this won't work.
Why he is afraid we don't know yet.
We only know that they end up in Elena's room...
But what happens in that room....I won't tell you.
But it's probably not what you think ....
What's with Gabe & Elena?
Do they know each other?
What happened in their pasts?
Will there be a HEA?
Will everybody die at the end?
I'm not telling you that of course ☺
═════════════════════════════════
This was a really interesting little thing.
I literally had NO idea what was happening during the first 20% of the story ☺☺☺
But I immediately liked Gabe - with all his fears and weaknesses and whatnot.
Bad things happened in his past and in Elena's too....
Both have suffered in the past and baring their souls now in front of each other might be the perfect way to start healing....
I really liked the story - I liked Simon a lot too and you can easily imagine a happy little ever after with them as a family!
I might have had some tears in my eyes here and there ☺
I think I would've loved the story even more with another 200 pages added to it! There's sooo much story to be told about both of them....
THE HEART OF IT was a really interesting and moving little novella about two lonely and broken souls who might've finally found their other half☺
November 30, 2017
11/29/17 currently free https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B01...
This was very different. It begins leaving the readers confused about how the couple knows each other, and quickly reveals a very unconventional hookup. A very short novella dealing with the aftereffects of men sexually abused as children. The emotional impact, versus the sex is what matters in this short story. It ends on a hopeful note, but wish we knew more about their future.
Included as part of this boxset
This was very different. It begins leaving the readers confused about how the couple knows each other, and quickly reveals a very unconventional hookup. A very short novella dealing with the aftereffects of men sexually abused as children. The emotional impact, versus the sex is what matters in this short story. It ends on a hopeful note, but wish we knew more about their future.
Included as part of this boxset
February 29, 2016
How to start a summary about such a short story without spoiling anything? ☺
It was a dark and rainy night in Toronto ☺
Gabe enters this bar on one of upper floors of a Hotel....hoping to meet ... her.
Elena.
He must've seen her before in there, but we don't know what's between them, or if he's just a bit of a stalker.
They talk - he tells her some truths, some lies....
But through it all he's scared, afraid this won't work.
Why he is afraid we don't know yet.
We only know that they end up in Elena's room...
But what happens in that room....I won't tell you.
But it's probably not what you think ....
What's with Gabe & Elena?
Do they know each other?
What happened in their pasts?
Will there be a HEA?
Will everybody die at the end?
I'm not telling you that of course ☺
═════════════════════════════════
This was a really interesting little thing.
I literally had NO idea what was happening during the first 20% of the story ☺☺☺
But I immediately liked Gabe - with all his fears and weaknesses and whatnot.
Bad things happened in his past and in Elena's too....
Both have suffered in the past and baring their souls now in front of each other might be the perfect way to start healing....
I really liked the story - I liked Simon a lot too and you can easily imagine a happy little ever after with them as a family!
I might have had some tears in my eyes here and there ☺
I think I would've loved the story even more with another 200 pages added to it! There's sooo much story to be told about both of them....
THE HEART OF IT was a really interesting and moving little novella about two lonely and broken souls who might've finally found their other half☺
February 15, 2016
This was such a great novella. I read half of it and had to stop for a few hours but I couldn't stop thinking about it. I got back to it and finished it as soon as I could.
For such a short novella there was so much character depth and development. Not that it wasn't great as it was but I loved these characters so much that I wanted a full length book for them.
For such a short novella there was so much character depth and development. Not that it wasn't great as it was but I loved these characters so much that I wanted a full length book for them.
February 3, 2016
The Heart of It was originally published in the Summer Rain anthology. Proceeds from that anthology go to RAINN (Rape, Abuse, Incest National Network). If you would like to buy this anthology, here is the link:
http://www.amazon.com/Summer-Rain-Lov...
Because proceeds of the anthology go to RAINN, it's easy to guess that these novellas are going have difficult subject matters. The tables are turned a little in this story since Gabe is the victim. He is trying to overcome the demons from his past. Little did he know that help would come in the form of a woman he requested from an escort service.
Molly O'Keefe is a phenomenal writer. How she can pack so much heart into such a short story, I'll never understand because I don't have that talent, but I am sure glad she does because I have enjoyed every book I've read by her.
This has to be the most intense novella I have ever held in my hands. It gives us a sense of hope. It lets us know that you can overcome things easier when someone believes in you. It also leaves us wanting more.
I do recommend that you read this story if you are a fan of M. O'Keefe or contemporary romance. It doesn't take long and I think you'll be just as amazed as I was about all the emotion dumped in this compact story.
Thanks to Molly O'Keefe for providing me with this ARC.
http://www.amazon.com/Summer-Rain-Lov...
Because proceeds of the anthology go to RAINN, it's easy to guess that these novellas are going have difficult subject matters. The tables are turned a little in this story since Gabe is the victim. He is trying to overcome the demons from his past. Little did he know that help would come in the form of a woman he requested from an escort service.
Molly O'Keefe is a phenomenal writer. How she can pack so much heart into such a short story, I'll never understand because I don't have that talent, but I am sure glad she does because I have enjoyed every book I've read by her.
This has to be the most intense novella I have ever held in my hands. It gives us a sense of hope. It lets us know that you can overcome things easier when someone believes in you. It also leaves us wanting more.
I do recommend that you read this story if you are a fan of M. O'Keefe or contemporary romance. It doesn't take long and I think you'll be just as amazed as I was about all the emotion dumped in this compact story.
Thanks to Molly O'Keefe for providing me with this ARC.
March 3, 2016
It was so good, but too short. It starts with depth and intensity but then wraps things up far too quickly. It would make an awesome full-length novel, I dare say. Still, I love Molly O'Keefe's writing and this was no different - emotional, powerful,sensual!
June 28, 2016
First time reading this author's work and I really liked this short story! I liked that it ended abruptly and I liked exactly where the story ended. Had it gone on with tons of backstory and depressing tidbits, I may have been bored. Short and sweet! En-joyed!
April 17, 2021
The Heart of It had the potential to be a great read, but it was a bit too quick for me. It handled a heavy topic well, but there wasn’t quite enough for me to feel the connection between the characters. I feel this is one of those stories where it would have worked better, able to cover the full depth of the events, had it been a longer story instead of doing multiple time jumps.
Although not quite all I had expected, it did make for a quick and easy read.
Although not quite all I had expected, it did make for a quick and easy read.
February 17, 2017
A standalone novella that offers two people who have suffered at the hands of others an emotional catharsis of sorts and a chance to heal.
February 19, 2016
I never know what to expect from O'Keefe and that's only because she can push her writing limits and with this novella it wasn't any different. She brought together two abused individuals that found something more in one another.
I really wanted to like this like I did her other stories, but it was way too short. This story starts out with Gabe and Elena on I believe it's there 4 or 5 encounter. It's briefly mentioned what happened on the ones before but I would've liked to see these two meet from the beginning. What happened? How does Gabe end up using this service?
So if you've read the blurb you know it's about an author and a call girl. Each have a past they are trying to move beyond but for most of the story these two only have one encounter that is mentioned until the end of the novella.
As far as the characters go they were interesting but nothing about them really stood out for me. There was no deep connection of love or commitment. Elena was just trying to help him out. I don't think I could even put this in the category of romance.
I think in order for me to have fallen In love with them I needed more of a story. I believe this could have been a very good full length book if it had more details and scenes added in.
The ending left me wondering okay so now that they met up again what happens after they went out to eat? Did they go there separate ways? Did they have a Hea? There story just feels unfinished unfortunately.
I really wanted to like this like I did her other stories, but it was way too short. This story starts out with Gabe and Elena on I believe it's there 4 or 5 encounter. It's briefly mentioned what happened on the ones before but I would've liked to see these two meet from the beginning. What happened? How does Gabe end up using this service?
So if you've read the blurb you know it's about an author and a call girl. Each have a past they are trying to move beyond but for most of the story these two only have one encounter that is mentioned until the end of the novella.
As far as the characters go they were interesting but nothing about them really stood out for me. There was no deep connection of love or commitment. Elena was just trying to help him out. I don't think I could even put this in the category of romance.
I think in order for me to have fallen In love with them I needed more of a story. I believe this could have been a very good full length book if it had more details and scenes added in.
The ending left me wondering okay so now that they met up again what happens after they went out to eat? Did they go there separate ways? Did they have a Hea? There story just feels unfinished unfortunately.
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