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Meet the McIntyres #4
Coming Home
Running away was Zoe Sinclair’s answer to her problems…
Zoe has missed too much since she fled home ten years ago. Now it is finally time to go back. And with her friend’s birthday party days away, it is the perfect opportunity. On her way into town, her car breaks down, and then she’s attacked and left for dead among the dirt and dust on the roadside.
Spencer McLaren never left home, but his heart did. In the same moment Zoe fled…
Spencer had always been in Zoe’s life. Every time she’d needed him, he’d been there, arms open wide. When he spots a broken and battered Zoe stumbling along the side of the road, he can’t help but swoop in and rescue her. He rushes her to the hospital, but when she’s released, he can’t seem to let her go. Not again.
Physically, Zoe feels fine. Emotionally, her head and her heart are a disaster…
Spencer takes Zoe into his home and assigns himself the task of guardian and nurse. But her return puts strain on Spencer’s relationship with his brother, who isn’t happy to see Spencer falling for the girl who broke his heart again. Zoe knows she should leave, but her attacker is still out there, and being with Spencer is the only place she feels safe. She wants to make up for the pain she caused him in the past, but the attack has left her so broken and scared.
Despite Zoe’s hesitations and constant battle to keep her emotions in check, Spencer is determined to keep her safe and make her never regret finally…
Coming Home.
Zoe has missed too much since she fled home ten years ago. Now it is finally time to go back. And with her friend’s birthday party days away, it is the perfect opportunity. On her way into town, her car breaks down, and then she’s attacked and left for dead among the dirt and dust on the roadside.
Spencer McLaren never left home, but his heart did. In the same moment Zoe fled…
Spencer had always been in Zoe’s life. Every time she’d needed him, he’d been there, arms open wide. When he spots a broken and battered Zoe stumbling along the side of the road, he can’t help but swoop in and rescue her. He rushes her to the hospital, but when she’s released, he can’t seem to let her go. Not again.
Physically, Zoe feels fine. Emotionally, her head and her heart are a disaster…
Spencer takes Zoe into his home and assigns himself the task of guardian and nurse. But her return puts strain on Spencer’s relationship with his brother, who isn’t happy to see Spencer falling for the girl who broke his heart again. Zoe knows she should leave, but her attacker is still out there, and being with Spencer is the only place she feels safe. She wants to make up for the pain she caused him in the past, but the attack has left her so broken and scared.
Despite Zoe’s hesitations and constant battle to keep her emotions in check, Spencer is determined to keep her safe and make her never regret finally…
Coming Home.
335 pages, Kindle Edition
First published January 1, 2015
493 people are currently reading
580 people want to read
About the author
Rebecca Barber
17 books311 followersRebecca lives in Australia's capital surrounded by bushland and kangaroos.
When she's not writing about small town romance or sexy athletes she's watching football with her husband, snuggling up with their dog or indulging in some very yummy chocolates.
When she's not writing about small town romance or sexy athletes she's watching football with her husband, snuggling up with their dog or indulging in some very yummy chocolates.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 196 reviews
December 26, 2020
Really horrid
This book has lots of triggers for me and I really had a hard time reading it. Joel was an awful awful human being. The ending stunned me. I am still trying to process this book. But first off let me say this. This is so not a romance. It's about people that are broken. So depressing.
This book has lots of triggers for me and I really had a hard time reading it. Joel was an awful awful human being. The ending stunned me. I am still trying to process this book. But first off let me say this. This is so not a romance. It's about people that are broken. So depressing.
December 10, 2019
It's a no for me... 2.5 stars. When the heroine is at the hospital one moment (badly injured and beaten up!!) and she’s out partying the same night.... I don't know what to say... And the end!! I didn't want to give 2.5 but i couldn't give anything better... p.s. : I think that I would liked the book better if the story was told only from the heroine's point of view.
August 31, 2018
This looks like another somewhat established author shaking up her m/f series with a m/m romance. I didn't read the previous m/f books but I think this book assumes you have read them all and doesn't do a really good job of seamlessly giving any relevant backstory. It does dangle a lot of very annoying threads back to the earlier books though which, if you're inclined to read them might entice you to do so. If, like me, they aren't going to be on the menu, you just have to move along with the story with no answers.
A lot of this book is Ryan and Alex living their life separate. We spend a lot of time getting Ryan's story with his family (without Alex) and Alex living his life with his family (without Ryan) and when Ryan unexpectedly reaches out to Alex, it seemed like Ryan basically reached out to a Grindr hookup and expected total emotional support. (we never really hear how Alex and Ryan met, I'm assuming they were just a random club hookup that was repeated for a few Saturday nights) It was...weird and inorganic and nothing about their relationship seemed to actually work until they start hanging out together and doing construction together which was all glossed over. There was nothing satisfying about watching these guys fall in love....when did that happen? It all happened off page. We get no first sex scenes or romance or dates or anything really. There are two somewhat uninspired sex scenes between them. The rest is implied.
I suppose these are pretty human people but at times, actually many times, I really didn't like Ryan. His inner monologue was just so self centered it was frustrating. His treatment of Zoe (basically "I know there is something seriously wrong with her but I can't help her until I feel like I'm in a better place, mentally") was just ugly. She's his roommate, his friend, his saviour and she is sick with something that needs her to give herself a shot (unless she is doing hardcore drugs and Ryan just sees that and turns his back which is all part of another RIDICULOUS dangled thread for the next book) and he is too up in his head about his hurt feelings (that have nothing to do with her) that he just lets her twist in the wind by herself. Additionally, what is wrong with people? It's strongly implied that Connor loves Zoe and yet when she passes out and cuts her head open Connor and Ryan take her into the house, rouse her (eventually, this was no quick faint) yell at her, watch her and then send her home, mostly alone because Ryan is spending all of his time with Alex at this point. WTF? Are you kidding me? What kind of friends are these? Additionally, when Ryan gets his feelings hurt he ghosts Alex and only Alex chasing him fixes that (although we don't see that happen, another missed opportunity for us to see them interact in a way that they work together to solve their problems)
The writing is really frustrating as far as timeline goes. This book skips time, doubles back on time and ignores time all together. I found it very difficult to follow how much time had passed and at least one area where the timeline had no continuity with earlier parts of the book.
Finally, again, this is probably normal behavior but I couldn't help noticing the vast amount of sexist behavior in this book. The women cook and clean and clear the dishes and the men expect it. Characters are describes several times that they scream like girls and every woman in the book is described as a chick or a tough chick at some point but is still expected to have dinner on the table. These are just the examples that come to mind but the whole book is just riddled with outdated ideas of gender roles and overwrought masculinity.
As a romance book, this wasn't' very good. As a m/m romance book this book wasn't very good
.
A lot of this book is Ryan and Alex living their life separate. We spend a lot of time getting Ryan's story with his family (without Alex) and Alex living his life with his family (without Ryan) and when Ryan unexpectedly reaches out to Alex, it seemed like Ryan basically reached out to a Grindr hookup and expected total emotional support. (we never really hear how Alex and Ryan met, I'm assuming they were just a random club hookup that was repeated for a few Saturday nights) It was...weird and inorganic and nothing about their relationship seemed to actually work until they start hanging out together and doing construction together which was all glossed over. There was nothing satisfying about watching these guys fall in love....when did that happen? It all happened off page. We get no first sex scenes or romance or dates or anything really. There are two somewhat uninspired sex scenes between them. The rest is implied.
I suppose these are pretty human people but at times, actually many times, I really didn't like Ryan. His inner monologue was just so self centered it was frustrating. His treatment of Zoe (basically "I know there is something seriously wrong with her but I can't help her until I feel like I'm in a better place, mentally") was just ugly. She's his roommate, his friend, his saviour and she is sick with something that needs her to give herself a shot (unless she is doing hardcore drugs and Ryan just sees that and turns his back which is all part of another RIDICULOUS dangled thread for the next book) and he is too up in his head about his hurt feelings (that have nothing to do with her) that he just lets her twist in the wind by herself. Additionally, what is wrong with people? It's strongly implied that Connor loves Zoe and yet when she passes out and cuts her head open Connor and Ryan take her into the house, rouse her (eventually, this was no quick faint) yell at her, watch her and then send her home, mostly alone because Ryan is spending all of his time with Alex at this point. WTF? Are you kidding me? What kind of friends are these? Additionally, when Ryan gets his feelings hurt he ghosts Alex and only Alex chasing him fixes that (although we don't see that happen, another missed opportunity for us to see them interact in a way that they work together to solve their problems)
The writing is really frustrating as far as timeline goes. This book skips time, doubles back on time and ignores time all together. I found it very difficult to follow how much time had passed and at least one area where the timeline had no continuity with earlier parts of the book.
Finally, again, this is probably normal behavior but I couldn't help noticing the vast amount of sexist behavior in this book. The women cook and clean and clear the dishes and the men expect it. Characters are describes several times that they scream like girls and every woman in the book is described as a chick or a tough chick at some point but is still expected to have dinner on the table. These are just the examples that come to mind but the whole book is just riddled with outdated ideas of gender roles and overwrought masculinity.
As a romance book, this wasn't' very good. As a m/m romance book this book wasn't very good
.
September 26, 2016
3.5 Stars for this book that had some unexpected twists that you may not see coming.
Zoe returns home after 10 years and returns home to Spencer, her childhood best friend, his brother Kane and their friend Derrick.
The first few chapters are intriguing and will have you engaged as there is drama right off the bat with Spencer finding Zoe broken and battered on the side of the road. You immediately want to know what happened to her, who did it and what is going to happen.
As Spencer takes care of Zoe you will find out if they are just friends or if there is a deeper connection there. As the story continues on you will discover an ugly revelation that while I had an idea that it was coming it still made me want to scream and say what the fuck NOOOO and Rebecca will totally blow you away with the ending that had me shocked and I have to say a little distraught.
I would have liked to know what made Zoe run away from home to begin with I think that may have added more to the story. Overall a good read.
If you are looking for an unexpected twist and a heart-wrenching conclusion then I suggest this book.
Zoe returns home after 10 years and returns home to Spencer, her childhood best friend, his brother Kane and their friend Derrick.
The first few chapters are intriguing and will have you engaged as there is drama right off the bat with Spencer finding Zoe broken and battered on the side of the road. You immediately want to know what happened to her, who did it and what is going to happen.
As Spencer takes care of Zoe you will find out if they are just friends or if there is a deeper connection there. As the story continues on you will discover an ugly revelation that while I had an idea that it was coming it still made me want to scream and say what the fuck NOOOO and Rebecca will totally blow you away with the ending that had me shocked and I have to say a little distraught.
I would have liked to know what made Zoe run away from home to begin with I think that may have added more to the story. Overall a good read.
If you are looking for an unexpected twist and a heart-wrenching conclusion then I suggest this book.
August 29, 2020
I think this story broke me. I can't classify it as a romance, it's truly tragic and packs an emotional punch.
When your future becomes a nightmare loop. Lost and alone in her grief, decisions made were later regrettable. Three children and years trapped make for a dreadful marriage. He's a spineless twat, laying blame where it didn't belong. It was a story where i wanted one character to die.
A truly well written, emotional ride, I can't possibly review it well enough to give it justice.
When your future becomes a nightmare loop. Lost and alone in her grief, decisions made were later regrettable. Three children and years trapped make for a dreadful marriage. He's a spineless twat, laying blame where it didn't belong. It was a story where i wanted one character to die.
A truly well written, emotional ride, I can't possibly review it well enough to give it justice.
August 1, 2018
Ok, here's what I'll say about this book.......READ IT!!!!! Wait, no don't.....actually yea, you will want to. But be prepared. This author makes you feel all the things a really great book should make you feel......and more!!!
August 29, 2016
This book made me feel so many things, mostly at once. The characters were fantastic and the storyline......well, it was heartbreaking but most definitely worth the read
December 11, 2017
Believing Again (Book #3 - Finding Your Place Series) - Rebecca Barber.
I was given this book for an honest and unbiased review.
Believing Again is a beautifully honest piece of writing, telling the struggles of Josie as a single mother and the devastation she endures in order to provide the very best life she can for her precious little girl, Matilda. Josie escaped a life of judgement and criticism for her choices, turning over a new leaf and now residing with her Sister Mia and her burley Cop fiancé, Derek in their small town.
Nate Mitchell is the new guy in this very hard to crack, country town. He's also the new school teacher in town and fresh meat to the hunting hoards of single women in the town. The same country town that Josie has escaped to and though neither of them is particularly looking for a relationship, fate, and Mia have a way of intervening in their lives.
Two very broken individuals may just find the solace they need, in each other's arms.
Though this story ends, not necessarily on a cliff hanger, there are questions to be answered and I'm sure that Rebecca Barber will not make us endure a loose end to this series.
Fabulous characters, with real humanity and faults, risking their emotions to come through some truly raw struggles but also some sassy and funny situations, make this a unique and wonderful series and this book is an integral part of it. Highly recommend reading the series to appreciate each characters story and the dynamics of their relationships.
Merged review:
Believing Again (Book #3 - Finding Your Place Series) - Rebecca Barber.
I was given this book for an honest and unbiased review.
Believing Again is a beautifully honest piece of writing, telling the struggles of Josie as a single mother and the devastation she endures in order to provide the very best life she can for her precious little girl, Matilda. Josie escaped a life of judgement and criticism for her choices, turning over a new leaf and now residing with her Sister Mia and her burley Cop fiancé, Derek in their small town.
Nate Mitchell is the new guy in this very hard to crack, country town. He's also the new school teacher in town and fresh meat to the hunting hoards of single women in the town. The same country town that Josie has escaped to and though neither of them is particularly looking for a relationship, fate, and Mia have a way of intervening in their lives.
Two very broken individuals may just find the solace they need, in each other's arms.
Though this story ends, not necessarily on a cliff hanger, there are questions to be answered and I'm sure that Rebecca Barber will not make us endure a loose end to this series.
Fabulous characters, with real humanity and faults, risking their emotions to come through some truly raw struggles but also some sassy and funny situations, make this a unique and wonderful series and this book is an integral part of it. Highly recommend reading the series to appreciate each characters story and the dynamics of their relationships.
I was given this book for an honest and unbiased review.
Believing Again is a beautifully honest piece of writing, telling the struggles of Josie as a single mother and the devastation she endures in order to provide the very best life she can for her precious little girl, Matilda. Josie escaped a life of judgement and criticism for her choices, turning over a new leaf and now residing with her Sister Mia and her burley Cop fiancé, Derek in their small town.
Nate Mitchell is the new guy in this very hard to crack, country town. He's also the new school teacher in town and fresh meat to the hunting hoards of single women in the town. The same country town that Josie has escaped to and though neither of them is particularly looking for a relationship, fate, and Mia have a way of intervening in their lives.
Two very broken individuals may just find the solace they need, in each other's arms.
Though this story ends, not necessarily on a cliff hanger, there are questions to be answered and I'm sure that Rebecca Barber will not make us endure a loose end to this series.
Fabulous characters, with real humanity and faults, risking their emotions to come through some truly raw struggles but also some sassy and funny situations, make this a unique and wonderful series and this book is an integral part of it. Highly recommend reading the series to appreciate each characters story and the dynamics of their relationships.
Merged review:
Believing Again (Book #3 - Finding Your Place Series) - Rebecca Barber.
I was given this book for an honest and unbiased review.
Believing Again is a beautifully honest piece of writing, telling the struggles of Josie as a single mother and the devastation she endures in order to provide the very best life she can for her precious little girl, Matilda. Josie escaped a life of judgement and criticism for her choices, turning over a new leaf and now residing with her Sister Mia and her burley Cop fiancé, Derek in their small town.
Nate Mitchell is the new guy in this very hard to crack, country town. He's also the new school teacher in town and fresh meat to the hunting hoards of single women in the town. The same country town that Josie has escaped to and though neither of them is particularly looking for a relationship, fate, and Mia have a way of intervening in their lives.
Two very broken individuals may just find the solace they need, in each other's arms.
Though this story ends, not necessarily on a cliff hanger, there are questions to be answered and I'm sure that Rebecca Barber will not make us endure a loose end to this series.
Fabulous characters, with real humanity and faults, risking their emotions to come through some truly raw struggles but also some sassy and funny situations, make this a unique and wonderful series and this book is an integral part of it. Highly recommend reading the series to appreciate each characters story and the dynamics of their relationships.
June 27, 2018
Breaking Free (Meet the McIntyres Book#4) - Rebecca Barber
This McIntyre family series just keeps getting better and better.
Ryan McIntyre has left his childhood home and moved to Melbourne, to find himself. His housemate, Zoe, yes you remember Zoe from the Finding Your Place Series, has welcomed Ryan to the city but they’re both holding their cards close and although supporting each other there are secrets they’re keeping from each other and their family and friends.
All the fabulous characters from the previous books pop in and out of the story, creating an incredibly real and yet wholly involving story.
Rebecca Barbers story with its witty banter, passionate characters and all round great mix of personalities just endears this rag tag group of family and friends to every reader and makes for thoroughly enjoyable reading.
Now for the final book in the series...... I can’t wait!!!
This McIntyre family series just keeps getting better and better.
Ryan McIntyre has left his childhood home and moved to Melbourne, to find himself. His housemate, Zoe, yes you remember Zoe from the Finding Your Place Series, has welcomed Ryan to the city but they’re both holding their cards close and although supporting each other there are secrets they’re keeping from each other and their family and friends.
All the fabulous characters from the previous books pop in and out of the story, creating an incredibly real and yet wholly involving story.
Rebecca Barbers story with its witty banter, passionate characters and all round great mix of personalities just endears this rag tag group of family and friends to every reader and makes for thoroughly enjoyable reading.
Now for the final book in the series...... I can’t wait!!!
September 26, 2020
4 Stars!
Rebecca Barber swooned and schmoozed me with the third standalone in the Playing Games series and by far, totally the best in this series. I'm not sure if it was these two characters or their crazy fun banter or this fun trope that I love in romance but yeah, what a journey these two gave me.
Benched is the third book in this series giving us Hunter and Siena's story and y'all, just wait until you follow/meet these two. They have a friends with benefits thing going on... and it's working for both of them... until its not, that is until things change in big ways. Now they have to figure out their next move and what that means for them. It might get a little complicated but promise that's it totally worth it.
Laughs. Fun. Sweet heat. Steamy chemistry. If you like fast-paced, easy-read sports romances with loads of feels then you should definitely give this book a good try.
I recommend this book.
Reviewed for Renee Entress's Blog.
Rebecca Barber swooned and schmoozed me with the third standalone in the Playing Games series and by far, totally the best in this series. I'm not sure if it was these two characters or their crazy fun banter or this fun trope that I love in romance but yeah, what a journey these two gave me.
Benched is the third book in this series giving us Hunter and Siena's story and y'all, just wait until you follow/meet these two. They have a friends with benefits thing going on... and it's working for both of them... until its not, that is until things change in big ways. Now they have to figure out their next move and what that means for them. It might get a little complicated but promise that's it totally worth it.
Laughs. Fun. Sweet heat. Steamy chemistry. If you like fast-paced, easy-read sports romances with loads of feels then you should definitely give this book a good try.
I recommend this book.
Reviewed for Renee Entress's Blog.
September 25, 2020
4.5 Stars...
Y'all I wasn't sure who I liked more Hunter or Siena. They are both strong, independent and just plain hard headed. I was shocked by Siena hiding secrets from Hunter but I gotta say when she dropped the bombshell he took it better than I thought he would. Hunter is super swoon worthy and he goes above and beyond and he shocked me several times. Sie was adorable through most of the book but I won't lie she drove me crazy on more than one occasion. The ending was everything though and honestly threw me for a fast one.
Y'all I wasn't sure who I liked more Hunter or Siena. They are both strong, independent and just plain hard headed. I was shocked by Siena hiding secrets from Hunter but I gotta say when she dropped the bombshell he took it better than I thought he would. Hunter is super swoon worthy and he goes above and beyond and he shocked me several times. Sie was adorable through most of the book but I won't lie she drove me crazy on more than one occasion. The ending was everything though and honestly threw me for a fast one.
August 18, 2018
I swear Rebecca Barber does not know how to write a bad book in my opinion, Ryan and Alex their story makes you feel everything possible and then some, you are rooting for them the whole way and just want a happy ever after.Alex thought she had her life just how she needed it until Ryan walked into it and then she realized just what she was missing, Ryan needed to find himself and on the way he finds his one .
All I can say is READ THIS BOOK!!!!
All I can say is READ THIS BOOK!!!!
August 6, 2017
“I might not know about the demons that haunted her, but her gorgeous, innocent face, as it stared wide-eyed back at me had me wanting to.”
Believing Again is a beautiful, moving story with interesting main characters. I enjoyed it very much.
Believing Again is a beautiful, moving story with interesting main characters. I enjoyed it very much.
September 28, 2020
When the tables turn, these 2 had a great back and forth and I loved how caveman-ish Hunter was...made him that more loveable. Sienna loved her spark and stubbornness. Great story !
Want to read
December 5, 2019🎁 FREE on Amazon today (12/5/2019)! 🎁
April 1, 2017
Awesome book many ups and downs but the ending was not expecting
May 28, 2017
Absolutely loved Spencer!!!
I have to admit to struggling with my review for Coming Home. It left me speechless, and I honestly needed to take a breather.
While it was a story that I enjoyed reading, it left me with so many questions that there was more frustration than enjoyment, and I really believe that had more backstory been provided, it would have made reading about Zoe and Spencer a more well rounded reading experience. That hasn’t stopped me buying books two and three, however.
If you can over look a slightly less that smooth writing style, and a few minor plot inconsistencies, you will enjoy Coming Home as the friends to lovers story that it is, about working towards healing, and seeing the love and support in friends around our heroine. There was a huge plot twist at the end – Rebecca Barber, you broke my heart! 4 stars
I have to admit to struggling with my review for Coming Home. It left me speechless, and I honestly needed to take a breather.
While it was a story that I enjoyed reading, it left me with so many questions that there was more frustration than enjoyment, and I really believe that had more backstory been provided, it would have made reading about Zoe and Spencer a more well rounded reading experience. That hasn’t stopped me buying books two and three, however.
If you can over look a slightly less that smooth writing style, and a few minor plot inconsistencies, you will enjoy Coming Home as the friends to lovers story that it is, about working towards healing, and seeing the love and support in friends around our heroine. There was a huge plot twist at the end – Rebecca Barber, you broke my heart! 4 stars
May 27, 2017
This wasn't a book I would normally pick up, but I'm glad the opportunity arose that I was able to read it.
Coming Home hit on so many emotions: love, rage, sorrow. Zoe and Spencer's relationship was so deep and timeless. There was a point that I was heartbroken by events that took place, but love always wins out in the end.
Coming Home hit on so many emotions: love, rage, sorrow. Zoe and Spencer's relationship was so deep and timeless. There was a point that I was heartbroken by events that took place, but love always wins out in the end.
Read
February 21, 2017This book tore my heart out. What a deep story that shows the bad and the good, when hearts are broken and love is miscommunicated. Spencer and Zoe were ment for each other at a young age. When they get older they grow apart because they never told each other thier feelings, never wanting thier friendship to end. After nine years Zoe comes back home only to have the worst event happen to her. It crushes her. Spencers is the man Zoe trusts and with that trust and love he helps her become strong again. What happens after you will have to read without me giving it away. It is not the events and the ending you are expecting. This is an emotional read. This is a cliffhanger book, but the second book is coming out soon. I am definitely ready to see how this story gets completed.
May 28, 2017
On her way back to her hometown, Zoe is attacked, raped and left for dead by the street. She's then found by her childhood bestfriend, Spencer whom she'd have a story with - they were in a sort of relationship but we don't really know - 10 years happened since they last saw each other and Spencer takes upon himself to take care of her after she leaves the hospital. Around them, we meet Kane, Spencer's twin and Derek, Spencer's best friend. They all see Zoe as their "girl" and kind of try to protect her.
Truthfully, I only read the book till the end because I'd made the mistake of reading what the 2nd book was about and ended up being majorly spoiled. Given what happened at the beginning of the book and all the possibilities the author had, you'd think this would be an okay read. Well, it wasn't. It was extremely boring and repetitive, with Zoe trying to pretend she was okay and getting angry when people would call her on it, then having break downs. I get that what happened to her wasn't easy but many things she did - like going to that party right after she got out of the hospital - annoyed me. We had little informations about the characters in general, we knew little about their past and even knowing what was going to happen at the end, I couldn't see the twist comming - or couldn't get in anyway. At some points, I fell like any of those guys - except Derek maybe because he was really nice - could have been the rapist and at others, I'd think "no way, they're just so nice" and that's to say how little we knew about them and how difficult it was to get attached to them and read till the end. Which I did and I still can't say I'm convinced about the plot twist. I think it could have been handled way, way better than this.
The end is pretty unusual which is one of the things that I liked - if not the only one - but, once again, I think it was handled poorly and it didn't make me sad as much as it could have. God knows I cry for nothing! I mean, during the book, Zoe makes Spencer watch the movie My Girl with Macaulay Culkin which is a movie I've had the courage to watch once and only once because afterward, I think I cried like a baby for days. Even reading about it in the book made me teared up so yup, I'm an easy crier. So, when you've wrote a sad ending and I don't cry, it means that it was poorly, poorly handled.
Truthfully, I only read the book till the end because I'd made the mistake of reading what the 2nd book was about and ended up being majorly spoiled. Given what happened at the beginning of the book and all the possibilities the author had, you'd think this would be an okay read. Well, it wasn't. It was extremely boring and repetitive, with Zoe trying to pretend she was okay and getting angry when people would call her on it, then having break downs. I get that what happened to her wasn't easy but many things she did - like going to that party right after she got out of the hospital - annoyed me. We had little informations about the characters in general, we knew little about their past and even knowing what was going to happen at the end, I couldn't see the twist comming - or couldn't get in anyway. At some points, I fell like any of those guys - except Derek maybe because he was really nice - could have been the rapist and at others, I'd think "no way, they're just so nice" and that's to say how little we knew about them and how difficult it was to get attached to them and read till the end. Which I did and I still can't say I'm convinced about the plot twist. I think it could have been handled way, way better than this.
The end is pretty unusual which is one of the things that I liked - if not the only one - but, once again, I think it was handled poorly and it didn't make me sad as much as it could have. God knows I cry for nothing! I mean, during the book, Zoe makes Spencer watch the movie My Girl with Macaulay Culkin which is a movie I've had the courage to watch once and only once because afterward, I think I cried like a baby for days. Even reading about it in the book made me teared up so yup, I'm an easy crier. So, when you've wrote a sad ending and I don't cry, it means that it was poorly, poorly handled.
June 27, 2018
Alex is the key to Breaking Free
After Holly McIntyre’s story, who knew that her brother had one that was just as equally and socially important to tell? And Ryan is just as vulnerable as the sister he loves so much. He’s been there for his family so far, but now he’s checked out, and it’s his own life he needs to get sorted before he can truly feel at home again. Breaking Free is about Ryan crashing at Zoe’s place in Melbourne and discovering the person he truly is.
For those of us who love Zoe from the Finding Your Place series, you’ll be glad to see she was there for Ryan. She’s been through so much and has grown stronger, yet even in this book, she is still under extreme stress. Yep, we’re kept in the dark, tormented and waiting for her story.
Alex is successful in business and friendships, yet has been let down in the cruellest of way by family. Then along comes Ryan, and everything changes. The chemistry is extreme, “In the early morning, seeing Ryan standing there shirtless and his too long hair all mussed up, knowing it was my fingers that had done it, my blood was pumping.” Yep, their developing relationship is just so beautifully written.
Rebecca Barber writes family and friend relationships that are as unique as the people who make them. She doesn’t define them, or put them into a box. And while this can be read as a stand-a-lone, this book is part of the McIntyre family, and as such, family are there, through and through.
As I read anything that she writes, I actually see the characters doing as described. She is a very descriptive writer, for example: “Reaching the empty kitchen, I stood at the sink, my fingers digging into the stainless steel as I stared down the plug hole pondering my life. I felt like I was spinning.” I’m with Ryan, wondering if he is ok. I see him and feel him as though I’m there, watching his world spin. She has an absolute gift of writing, and as such, I cannot give this book any less that 5 Stars.
After Holly McIntyre’s story, who knew that her brother had one that was just as equally and socially important to tell? And Ryan is just as vulnerable as the sister he loves so much. He’s been there for his family so far, but now he’s checked out, and it’s his own life he needs to get sorted before he can truly feel at home again. Breaking Free is about Ryan crashing at Zoe’s place in Melbourne and discovering the person he truly is.
For those of us who love Zoe from the Finding Your Place series, you’ll be glad to see she was there for Ryan. She’s been through so much and has grown stronger, yet even in this book, she is still under extreme stress. Yep, we’re kept in the dark, tormented and waiting for her story.
Alex is successful in business and friendships, yet has been let down in the cruellest of way by family. Then along comes Ryan, and everything changes. The chemistry is extreme, “In the early morning, seeing Ryan standing there shirtless and his too long hair all mussed up, knowing it was my fingers that had done it, my blood was pumping.” Yep, their developing relationship is just so beautifully written.
Rebecca Barber writes family and friend relationships that are as unique as the people who make them. She doesn’t define them, or put them into a box. And while this can be read as a stand-a-lone, this book is part of the McIntyre family, and as such, family are there, through and through.
As I read anything that she writes, I actually see the characters doing as described. She is a very descriptive writer, for example: “Reaching the empty kitchen, I stood at the sink, my fingers digging into the stainless steel as I stared down the plug hole pondering my life. I felt like I was spinning.” I’m with Ryan, wondering if he is ok. I see him and feel him as though I’m there, watching his world spin. She has an absolute gift of writing, and as such, I cannot give this book any less that 5 Stars.
February 19, 2017
#BookSmacked read to review. Wow, such an emotional piece. With a little light and then a whole lot more dark. One major question unanswered though, as to why she left to begin with. Total surprise, this one.
August 15, 2018
All the feels….
I started reading Alex and Ryan’s story and I could not stop! I’ve enjoyed each story about the McIntyre siblings. Four brothers and one sister who were always close but family drama, and life, continue to strengthen their bonds. Each story profiles one sibling and their joys and tribulations as they find their “one.” They are definitely romance but also ‘family’ stories as their lives interconnect so closely…
Alex and Ryan are both struggling, in their own unique way, with the reality of being gay. Coming out to his family was Alex’s worst nightmare. Ryan is still working on being completely honest with his. They had a relationship with very strict boundaries so when things got tough for both of them, they were both surprised when they reached out to each other for the support. Each scene, each revelation built on the last, which meant the emotions ramped up satisfyingly slowly. I loved these two. So honest and open, their inner voices were painfully real as they shared their most guarded secrets and fears. I ached for them, as they struggled to be true to themselves while also fearing the consequences.
“Will you be okay?”
“I will be.”
And, of course, family was there for every minute of it. Holly and Ryan. Shane and Alex. All the brothers and sister were icing on this fabulous read cake. I’m nowhere near ready to say goodbye to the McIntyres so I am thankful Connor’s story is waiting to be told…
August 13, 2018
This. Is . It...
The book I've been waiting for.
Ryan and Alex's story.
Breaking free is book 4 of 5 in Rebecca Barbers Meet The McIntyres series.
Breaking Free sees Ryan leave the family farm in order to find himself and live his life how he wants to live it, so he moves in with Zoe....
Poor Zoe, when will her torture ever end? Something is going on with her in this book, but just what that is we don't know. We will have to wait for book 5 to find those answers.
Then there's Alex, who's had a tough time coming to terms with a family rift. Ryan and Alex start out as a casual Saturday night hook up, but soon they both want more... so much more.
I loved every word on every page of this book, Rebecca has a way with words that make the characters come ro life. You feel as though you are right there with them feeling all the highs and all the lows, and I can't wait to read the final instalment and see how this fabulous journey ends.
The book I've been waiting for.
Ryan and Alex's story.
Breaking free is book 4 of 5 in Rebecca Barbers Meet The McIntyres series.
Breaking Free sees Ryan leave the family farm in order to find himself and live his life how he wants to live it, so he moves in with Zoe....
Poor Zoe, when will her torture ever end? Something is going on with her in this book, but just what that is we don't know. We will have to wait for book 5 to find those answers.
Then there's Alex, who's had a tough time coming to terms with a family rift. Ryan and Alex start out as a casual Saturday night hook up, but soon they both want more... so much more.
I loved every word on every page of this book, Rebecca has a way with words that make the characters come ro life. You feel as though you are right there with them feeling all the highs and all the lows, and I can't wait to read the final instalment and see how this fabulous journey ends.
September 10, 2020
Benched - Playing Games - Book #3 - Rebecca Barber
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Rebecca Barber continues to deliver wonderful Aussie based sports romance stories in the Playing Games Series and Benched was everything I hoped for.
Benched is centred around Hunter Mitchell and Siena Conti, exploring their fiery friends with benefits relationship.
These two have some serious chemistry but frustrate each other at every turn. When things get complicated for Siena and Hunter, and obstacles keep mounting, their friends and family will shine, keeping them grounded and real. Hunter delivers on the swoon worthiness and Siena is a real spitfire, making this duo scorching in the bedroom and blazing everywhere else.
All the gang from the previous books make appearances and add to the charming crazy that Rebecca Barber has created around these super hot footballers and their very sassy, very authentic ladies.
Every book, every character, a true Aussie gem!
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Rebecca Barber continues to deliver wonderful Aussie based sports romance stories in the Playing Games Series and Benched was everything I hoped for.
Benched is centred around Hunter Mitchell and Siena Conti, exploring their fiery friends with benefits relationship.
These two have some serious chemistry but frustrate each other at every turn. When things get complicated for Siena and Hunter, and obstacles keep mounting, their friends and family will shine, keeping them grounded and real. Hunter delivers on the swoon worthiness and Siena is a real spitfire, making this duo scorching in the bedroom and blazing everywhere else.
All the gang from the previous books make appearances and add to the charming crazy that Rebecca Barber has created around these super hot footballers and their very sassy, very authentic ladies.
Every book, every character, a true Aussie gem!
March 31, 2021
Not sure what I just read
This is neither romance, nor chick lit. If you're looking for a story about a woman who learns to depend on herself, this isn't it. Looking for a woman who learns to be strong for her children? Again, this isn't it. If you're looking for a story about a woman who stupidly gets involved with a man who isn't worth her time and who gets herself pregnant and finds herself in an abusive relationship she never learns to get out of? This is it. Looking for a book about a woman who manages to scar her children for life and makes sure they have no idea what healthy relationships look like, basically guaranteeing they end up in abusive relationships later? This book is for you! Looking for a gut wrenching story with zero redemption? Look no further. There are exactly zero warm fuzzies about this story. Just dozens of people watching this woman make dangerous decisions and knowing she will likely end up dead but their hands are all tied.
This is neither romance, nor chick lit. If you're looking for a story about a woman who learns to depend on herself, this isn't it. Looking for a woman who learns to be strong for her children? Again, this isn't it. If you're looking for a story about a woman who stupidly gets involved with a man who isn't worth her time and who gets herself pregnant and finds herself in an abusive relationship she never learns to get out of? This is it. Looking for a book about a woman who manages to scar her children for life and makes sure they have no idea what healthy relationships look like, basically guaranteeing they end up in abusive relationships later? This book is for you! Looking for a gut wrenching story with zero redemption? Look no further. There are exactly zero warm fuzzies about this story. Just dozens of people watching this woman make dangerous decisions and knowing she will likely end up dead but their hands are all tied.
August 24, 2016
I just loved this book it was increditable. But it was sad when she got attacked and nobody new how to help her. Her best friend Sam stood by her even when he could not tell her his true feelings for her and she hid her true feeling from him then they finally told each other how they felt they had a couple of hours really together. They went to a party together then the truth came out who attacked her and that man killed Sam even it was his twin brother. He left everything to her and she got rid of it because half of it was his brothers. It brok her again then their best friend the cop moved in with her to help her cope with the lost.
March 15, 2021
I love this series...
The first book broke my heart...
The second book put it back together again..
This the third did alll of above.....
Josie returns home, with a secret that she has hidden from her sister.
Her sister, does what families do...welcome her home with open arms..
Josie continues to stay with her sister, to reclaim her life...
Then she meets Nate...
He is also running away from his past...
....Will they together will find their happiness ?
This book is pact with emotions, you will cheer on the characters as they regain their hope...and tears will come in through their pain and triumph ...
The first book broke my heart...
The second book put it back together again..
This the third did alll of above.....
Josie returns home, with a secret that she has hidden from her sister.
Her sister, does what families do...welcome her home with open arms..
Josie continues to stay with her sister, to reclaim her life...
Then she meets Nate...
He is also running away from his past...
....Will they together will find their happiness ?
This book is pact with emotions, you will cheer on the characters as they regain their hope...and tears will come in through their pain and triumph ...
August 21, 2016
This book GUTTED ME!
I absolutely loved the play between Spencer and Zoe. Both characters were well built and were realistic in relation to the situation. I also loved Derek.... He played off his friends well and how he interacted with Zoe in her time of need through both incidents was beautiful to watch.
The plot was strong and intriguing. Hated the twist though..... Cue ugly cry. I cannot wait to see where the story goes next.
I HIGHLY RECOMMEND THIS BOOK TO PEOPLE WHO LOVE UNPREDICTABILITY, STRONG CHARACTERS, GREAT PLOT AND UNEXPECTED ENDINGS!
I absolutely loved the play between Spencer and Zoe. Both characters were well built and were realistic in relation to the situation. I also loved Derek.... He played off his friends well and how he interacted with Zoe in her time of need through both incidents was beautiful to watch.
The plot was strong and intriguing. Hated the twist though..... Cue ugly cry. I cannot wait to see where the story goes next.
I HIGHLY RECOMMEND THIS BOOK TO PEOPLE WHO LOVE UNPREDICTABILITY, STRONG CHARACTERS, GREAT PLOT AND UNEXPECTED ENDINGS!
August 5, 2018
This book so the 4th book in the McIntyre brothers series and it follows Ryan. Ryan has moved away from his family in kind of a ‘find yourself’ expedition when he meets Alex. While I think their connection was pretty instantaneous, the pair kind of finds themselves in some pretty heavy situations. This book was well written and kept me entertained from pretty much the get-go. There was also plenty of drama, it wasn’t the kind of drama I usually expect from a romance novel.
Reviewed by: Lauren L.
Reviewed by: Lauren L.
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