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Sea #2
Where the Sea Takes Me
For Sienna Jones, the last two years have felt like two lifetimes.
Now, she’s finally starting to move on, diving headfirst into humanitarian missions with Team Hope, schoolwork, and maybe sort of even love.
Things are looking up.
But then he arrives on her doorstep, the boy she left behind, and the sight of him shakes Sienna to the core.
Sparks fly. It's like no time has passed since she left him on the beach two years ago. Now she's torn between the new life she’s fought so hard to build, and the possibility of one she thought she’d never have.
When they're both invited to join Team Hope on a mission in Cambodia, they jump at the chance to help. But when they lose their group and maybe each other, Sienna’s forced to make an impossible choice... and say goodbye to someone she loves one last time.
Now, she’s finally starting to move on, diving headfirst into humanitarian missions with Team Hope, schoolwork, and maybe sort of even love.
Things are looking up.
But then he arrives on her doorstep, the boy she left behind, and the sight of him shakes Sienna to the core.
Sparks fly. It's like no time has passed since she left him on the beach two years ago. Now she's torn between the new life she’s fought so hard to build, and the possibility of one she thought she’d never have.
When they're both invited to join Team Hope on a mission in Cambodia, they jump at the chance to help. But when they lose their group and maybe each other, Sienna’s forced to make an impossible choice... and say goodbye to someone she loves one last time.
340 pages, Paperback
First published April 2, 2018
3 people are currently reading
224 people want to read
About the author
Heidi R. Kling
14 books457 followersHeidi R. Kling writes books about normal girls in fantastic situations.
Her debut novel SEA (Penguin/Putnam) was a finalist for Northern California Book of the Year," an IndieNext Summer Pick, Goodreads “Mover and Shaker," Scholastic Reading Pick, and Gateway Reader’s Award Finalist among other generous accolades. SEA, which launched June, 2010, is a bittersweet love story set in the aftermath of the devastating 2004 Indonesian tsunami, and is set to relaunch with Entangled Teen December 4 as WHERE I FOUND YOU (Sea series #1) with its sequel WHERE THE SEA TAKES ME out April, 2018!
After earning her MFA in Writing for Children from the New School in New York, Heidi returned to the Bay Area where she lives with her family in a tiny seaside village like the towns in her books.
She's also the author of the acclaimed PAINT MY BODY RED (for fans of Speak and 13 Reasons Why), bestselling romantic comedy NOT OKAY, CUPID and the Spellspinners of Melas County series about feuding witches and warlocks.
Please visit her on twitter (Heidi R. Kling) where she loves to live-tweet TV shows, overuse gifs and chat with her readers about books, love and travel. She's very fortunate to write stories for a living and is grateful to you for reading them!
http://heidirkling.com
Her debut novel SEA (Penguin/Putnam) was a finalist for Northern California Book of the Year," an IndieNext Summer Pick, Goodreads “Mover and Shaker," Scholastic Reading Pick, and Gateway Reader’s Award Finalist among other generous accolades. SEA, which launched June, 2010, is a bittersweet love story set in the aftermath of the devastating 2004 Indonesian tsunami, and is set to relaunch with Entangled Teen December 4 as WHERE I FOUND YOU (Sea series #1) with its sequel WHERE THE SEA TAKES ME out April, 2018!
After earning her MFA in Writing for Children from the New School in New York, Heidi returned to the Bay Area where she lives with her family in a tiny seaside village like the towns in her books.
She's also the author of the acclaimed PAINT MY BODY RED (for fans of Speak and 13 Reasons Why), bestselling romantic comedy NOT OKAY, CUPID and the Spellspinners of Melas County series about feuding witches and warlocks.
Please visit her on twitter (Heidi R. Kling) where she loves to live-tweet TV shows, overuse gifs and chat with her readers about books, love and travel. She's very fortunate to write stories for a living and is grateful to you for reading them!
http://heidirkling.com
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 33 reviews
May 18, 2018
Where the sea takes me is the sequel to Where I found you. In the first book, Sienna found a way to kick-start her life after depression. She lost her mum and gave up on life. A trip abroad to work as a Good Samaritan was just what she needed. While there she met a boy, Deni he made her realise her life wasn't over. Now two years later, Sienna still dreams of her two weeks with Deni, but her own life has moved on. Her best friend, Spider wants her to be his, but she can't stop thinking of the boy that got away. Spider is the easy option. Her best friend and companion, but Sienna's heart is placed elsewhere. When Deni is presenting a film he made locally, Sienna gets to see the boy she dreams of again. The girl she was before her mum passed is gone, and what is left is the girl who wants to help others.
Her latest good venture takes us to Cambodia to help some young girls. This isn't Spiders sort of thing and Deni is keen to follow her. This is about going after what matters, but unfortunately Sienna can't please everyone.
I received an ARC in exchange for an honest review. This is a continuous story, however, contains catch up information. I would recommend you read book one first. It is likely there will be a book 3.
4 stars out of 5. An interesting story, but I did feel sorry for Spider. Sienna should have been honest with him. I felt she was leading him on. He wanted more and Sienna was happy to keep him as a friend.
This series is unique and the storyline is more than the average book. It's likeable but also unlikeable in the same breath.
Her latest good venture takes us to Cambodia to help some young girls. This isn't Spiders sort of thing and Deni is keen to follow her. This is about going after what matters, but unfortunately Sienna can't please everyone.
I received an ARC in exchange for an honest review. This is a continuous story, however, contains catch up information. I would recommend you read book one first. It is likely there will be a book 3.
4 stars out of 5. An interesting story, but I did feel sorry for Spider. Sienna should have been honest with him. I felt she was leading him on. He wanted more and Sienna was happy to keep him as a friend.
This series is unique and the storyline is more than the average book. It's likeable but also unlikeable in the same breath.
June 4, 2018
This is the second book in the series and continues relating what happens to Sienna Jones after she returns from a life changing summer in Indonesia working with orphan victims of the tsunami. It was there she met and fell in love with Dani, but fate stepped in and she returned home with her father, leaving him behind. I suspect it is important to read book one in the series, Where I found You, before embarking on this one - I certainly appreciated having done so as it fills in much of the background information and initial character building to make the story more relatable.
Two years later her father calls to inform her that Dani is coming to visit them but two years are a long time . . . will they feel the same about each other? Will he have married his Indonesian fiancée? What about her best friend who wants to be more, Spider?
The first story had Sienna working in an orphanage for tsunami victims whilst this one has her joining Team Hope to help victims of people trafficking in Cambodia. The story is well paced, insightful but filled with extra drama as Spider really doesn't want her to go. I had to feel sorry for him as he really wants Sienna to be more than his best friend. As a mother, I had a few qualms with this story - I definitely wouldn't want my daughter to be travelling out to a location where she'd be in danger of being taken to become yet another sex-slave for the traffickers without more mature adults and protection being provided to keep her safe. However, it is a unique story, a good read, involving taking chances and making the most of the opportunities life gives you whilst helping others.
I requested and was given a copy of this novel, via NetGalley, with no obligation. This is my honest review of the book after choosing to read it.
Two years later her father calls to inform her that Dani is coming to visit them but two years are a long time . . . will they feel the same about each other? Will he have married his Indonesian fiancée? What about her best friend who wants to be more, Spider?
The first story had Sienna working in an orphanage for tsunami victims whilst this one has her joining Team Hope to help victims of people trafficking in Cambodia. The story is well paced, insightful but filled with extra drama as Spider really doesn't want her to go. I had to feel sorry for him as he really wants Sienna to be more than his best friend. As a mother, I had a few qualms with this story - I definitely wouldn't want my daughter to be travelling out to a location where she'd be in danger of being taken to become yet another sex-slave for the traffickers without more mature adults and protection being provided to keep her safe. However, it is a unique story, a good read, involving taking chances and making the most of the opportunities life gives you whilst helping others.
I requested and was given a copy of this novel, via NetGalley, with no obligation. This is my honest review of the book after choosing to read it.
May 29, 2018
3.5 stars. This was a quick burn romance for YA readers and a pretty enjoyable read. I like that it brings light to the sex trafficking industry because not much attention is given to this travesty and it happens present day in every country. An issue I had is that teens are going after the same people who would think nothing of taking them and making them sex slaves too. It would have been nice to see one or two reliable adult friends they could have had with them because the danger is high even in that circumstance. This was my only major complaint.
Sienna (Sea) is still pursuing her passion of charity work. Spider, her best friend who wishes he was more, cant stand the time it takes her away from him and says as much. Dani, the boy who taught her there was more to life than grief two years ago, reappears in her life when Sea least expects it. She gets the opportunity to do charity work for relief of victims of the sex trafficking industry in Cambodia and she jumps at the chance to go. So does Dani, which angers Spider to no end. Now that Dani is in her life again she knows he is hiding something. Is it worth taking the chance of having her heart broken?
Thank you to Entangled Teen and NetGalley for providing me with an eARC in exchange for a fair and honest review
Sienna (Sea) is still pursuing her passion of charity work. Spider, her best friend who wishes he was more, cant stand the time it takes her away from him and says as much. Dani, the boy who taught her there was more to life than grief two years ago, reappears in her life when Sea least expects it. She gets the opportunity to do charity work for relief of victims of the sex trafficking industry in Cambodia and she jumps at the chance to go. So does Dani, which angers Spider to no end. Now that Dani is in her life again she knows he is hiding something. Is it worth taking the chance of having her heart broken?
Thank you to Entangled Teen and NetGalley for providing me with an eARC in exchange for a fair and honest review
August 31, 2018
Where the Sea Takes Me has:
-diverse characters
-discusses social issues
-love triangle
-quick burn romance
-diverse characters
-discusses social issues
-love triangle
-quick burn romance
March 23, 2019
There is a guinea pig called Bug in this story. I appreciate that a lot.
June 5, 2018
Achingly Gorgeous, Incredibly Moving and Absolutely Inspirational
Where the Sea Takes Me by Heidi R. Kling is a wonderfully written story about second chances, hope, and love. The FEELS in this book... so ridiculously overwhelming that made my heart and soul ached. It was too much to bear sometimes, but I honestly enjoyed going on this emotionally moving and inspirational journey with Sienna and Deni.
The ending in Where I Found You broke my heart into pieces, so I couldn’t wait to see if Sienna and Deni would get their HEA. Well, I was definitely not disappointed and the romance was adorable and totally swoony. As soon as I started this book, that intense wave of feels I've missed swallowed me back and I enjoyed every single moment.
Like the first book, this was amazingly sincere, delightfully fascinating, and exceptionally moving. Kling’s prose is so real, affecting and just so heartbreakingly beautiful. I definitely cried a few times and had to stop to take a breather. The plot was very intriguing, quite suspenseful, and engaging. I thought the characters, both old and new, were just charming, realistic, and relatable and I had fun spending time with them all. I enjoyed the romance too, even if I didn't get as many swoony scenes between Sienna and Deni. The ending, while not as emotionally epic as the first, was still satisfyingly sweet and incredibly touching.
I knew that this would not be an easy read considering I was an emotional mess after the first. However, I was not expecting it to be excruciatingly difficult and painful to read. Child trafficking and the sex trade business are extremely sensitive and tough topics to address and talk about. There were plenty of disturbing scenes that made me uneasy, upset, and at times just really angry. The world can be unpleasant, scary and even dangerous… So much hatred, violence and deaths. BUT, amidst all the cruelty, pain and animosity, there's hope, kindness, and love. Kling certainly didn’t shy away from revealing the worst and ugliest parts of humanity, but she also showed that there’s something worth fighting for… something beautiful and that’s what I loved about this series. It touches your soul and leaves you wanting to make a difference in the world.
Where the Sea Takes Me is an emotionally driven story I won’t easily forget. The writing is evocative and breathtaking, the characters so relatable, and the story is undeniably beautiful, heartfelt, and inspirational. The romance was slow burn in this one, but could still feel the intense chemistry between Sienna and Deni, and was rooting for them the entire time. I enjoyed learning a little bit about Cambodia and loved exploring the gorgeous temples, the floating villages, and junk boat river cruises. I learned so much from this story and will try to never stop moving.
If you're looking for a story that will move you and give you all the FEELS, then add this series on your TBR.
I received an advanced reader copy of this book from the publisher Entangled Teen via NetGalley in exchange for a fair review. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
Where the Sea Takes Me by Heidi R. Kling is a wonderfully written story about second chances, hope, and love. The FEELS in this book... so ridiculously overwhelming that made my heart and soul ached. It was too much to bear sometimes, but I honestly enjoyed going on this emotionally moving and inspirational journey with Sienna and Deni.
The ending in Where I Found You broke my heart into pieces, so I couldn’t wait to see if Sienna and Deni would get their HEA. Well, I was definitely not disappointed and the romance was adorable and totally swoony. As soon as I started this book, that intense wave of feels I've missed swallowed me back and I enjoyed every single moment.
Like the first book, this was amazingly sincere, delightfully fascinating, and exceptionally moving. Kling’s prose is so real, affecting and just so heartbreakingly beautiful. I definitely cried a few times and had to stop to take a breather. The plot was very intriguing, quite suspenseful, and engaging. I thought the characters, both old and new, were just charming, realistic, and relatable and I had fun spending time with them all. I enjoyed the romance too, even if I didn't get as many swoony scenes between Sienna and Deni. The ending, while not as emotionally epic as the first, was still satisfyingly sweet and incredibly touching.
I knew that this would not be an easy read considering I was an emotional mess after the first. However, I was not expecting it to be excruciatingly difficult and painful to read. Child trafficking and the sex trade business are extremely sensitive and tough topics to address and talk about. There were plenty of disturbing scenes that made me uneasy, upset, and at times just really angry. The world can be unpleasant, scary and even dangerous… So much hatred, violence and deaths. BUT, amidst all the cruelty, pain and animosity, there's hope, kindness, and love. Kling certainly didn’t shy away from revealing the worst and ugliest parts of humanity, but she also showed that there’s something worth fighting for… something beautiful and that’s what I loved about this series. It touches your soul and leaves you wanting to make a difference in the world.
Where the Sea Takes Me is an emotionally driven story I won’t easily forget. The writing is evocative and breathtaking, the characters so relatable, and the story is undeniably beautiful, heartfelt, and inspirational. The romance was slow burn in this one, but could still feel the intense chemistry between Sienna and Deni, and was rooting for them the entire time. I enjoyed learning a little bit about Cambodia and loved exploring the gorgeous temples, the floating villages, and junk boat river cruises. I learned so much from this story and will try to never stop moving.
If you're looking for a story that will move you and give you all the FEELS, then add this series on your TBR.
I received an advanced reader copy of this book from the publisher Entangled Teen via NetGalley in exchange for a fair review. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
June 4, 2018
This is such a charming little story. Where the Sea Takes Me will truly touch your soul. I thought this was a cute second story in a series. Although I haven't read the first, I didn't feel as though I missed anything in the series. Although you should check it out (Where I Found You (Sea #1) on Goodreads). I will be reading book one next because I loved this story so much.
In Where the Sea Takes Me we follow the main character of Sienna whom I really enjoyed. She had great character qualities and really seemed like a realistic college student. She is chasing her dreams and working hard to achieve them. She is still interested in a boy that she left behind, a boy that should be in her past. That boy is Deni, he is charming and from Banda Aceh. When he comes to America her world is completely shaken.
I thought the plot of this book was well crafted and the author did a great job of researching things as or before she wrote the book. This book gives you a great look at charities. More about how they work and their pitfalls. It was a different perspective than one I have seen before. It was like a peek behind the scenes.
The romance in Where the Sea Takes Me is swoon-worthy. Seeing the main characters grow and mature together was great. This is a slow burn romance which I really enjoyed. This made this a five-star book for me.
Disclaimer: I received a copy of this book through Entangled teen in exchange for my honest review.
May 21, 2018
I received this ARC from netgalley.com in exchange for an honest review.
I was kinda bummed that this was the second book in the series after I was almost finished with the book. But so glad I read it. Not only did I enjoy the characters in the story, but it touched on child trafficking. And as not all stories have a happy ending, there needs to be more awareness of this. I now need to find book 1 lol.
I was kinda bummed that this was the second book in the series after I was almost finished with the book. But so glad I read it. Not only did I enjoy the characters in the story, but it touched on child trafficking. And as not all stories have a happy ending, there needs to be more awareness of this. I now need to find book 1 lol.
June 9, 2018
Where the Sea Takes Me by Heidi R. Kling is the 2nd book in the Sea series, and my first book by this author. Sienna Jones first met orphan Deni two years ago while working with Team Hope, when they fell in love. Last time she saw Deni was on the shores of Indonesia, until he came to America to see her family and make a presentation to the University. Sienna still feels the sparks of love, but Deni was promised to another. I enjoyed this book, but might of enjoyed it more if I read book 1 first. I found this book to be interesting, but not a great love story.
I received this book in exchange for a fair and honest review.
I received this book in exchange for a fair and honest review.
May 14, 2018
My full review can be found on the Epilie Aspie Chick blog!
Thank you to Entangled Publishing for providing the ARC in exchange for an honest review.
I got really excited when I read the description for this book because it sounded so unique and different. It's rare when there's a story told from the perspective of charity. So as soon as I received this ARC, I dove into it.
Having read this one, it was definitely worth it. Even with it's weak points and soft spots, this is a story worth telling with a character and family you want to root for. Sienna's passion for the past few years of her life has been Team Hope and the good work they do in third world countries. It's a passion she shares with her family and one that was struck two years ago when she met Deni.
In the years since they met, Sienna has done everything she could to forget Deni and move forward with her life. A big part of that has involved Spider, her guy friend that isn't her boyfriend (but definitely wants to be). Just as Spider asks Sienna to move in with her, Deni shows up: he finished a documentary, won an award, and is coming to town. Everything falls apart with Spider right after Deni shows up and the male competition begins.
So when an offer to go on another Team Hope trip happens and Deni is coming with, things get complicated as emotions get involved again. Will their feelings grow like last time? What happens when she goes home again and they're split apart?
Sienna is relatable and easy to understand where she's coming from. Even when things with Spider get chaotic and he throws massive temper tantrums, she acts responsible. She cares even after he disappears from people's lives and insults her passion for Team Hope (in front of her entire family). Her downfall is that, like any chick, she lets her emotions get the best of her. She loses focus and it gets her in trouble. This happens even in Cambodia when they're on their mission helping the girls learn to swim.
Thank you to Entangled Publishing for providing the ARC in exchange for an honest review.
I got really excited when I read the description for this book because it sounded so unique and different. It's rare when there's a story told from the perspective of charity. So as soon as I received this ARC, I dove into it.
Having read this one, it was definitely worth it. Even with it's weak points and soft spots, this is a story worth telling with a character and family you want to root for. Sienna's passion for the past few years of her life has been Team Hope and the good work they do in third world countries. It's a passion she shares with her family and one that was struck two years ago when she met Deni.
In the years since they met, Sienna has done everything she could to forget Deni and move forward with her life. A big part of that has involved Spider, her guy friend that isn't her boyfriend (but definitely wants to be). Just as Spider asks Sienna to move in with her, Deni shows up: he finished a documentary, won an award, and is coming to town. Everything falls apart with Spider right after Deni shows up and the male competition begins.
So when an offer to go on another Team Hope trip happens and Deni is coming with, things get complicated as emotions get involved again. Will their feelings grow like last time? What happens when she goes home again and they're split apart?
Sienna is relatable and easy to understand where she's coming from. Even when things with Spider get chaotic and he throws massive temper tantrums, she acts responsible. She cares even after he disappears from people's lives and insults her passion for Team Hope (in front of her entire family). Her downfall is that, like any chick, she lets her emotions get the best of her. She loses focus and it gets her in trouble. This happens even in Cambodia when they're on their mission helping the girls learn to swim.
July 22, 2018
Oh, I am so happy that this story had a sequel. I couldn't help but be left wondering at the end of the first book what was going to happen to Sea and to Deni. They were well on their way to finding themselves again and healing from their own personal tragedies. But of course they both had even more soul-searching and maturing to do. And you knew that they couldn't really be happy apart from each other. And now they have their second chance.
I have to say that I am disappointed in Spider. He was such a good friend to Sienna when they were kids, and I thought he would continue to be so. But now as young adults, he has gotten too wrapped up in her and made a 180 from the friend he had been in the past. Jealousy is not a good look on him.
It's beautiful to see how far Sienna and Deni have come. They are embracing their lives and starting to fulfill their dreams. And now that they are together, sort of going back to their roots, they can find a new manifestation of themselves and their life goals. And that love that they have for each other, which never really went away, isn't going to hurt any.
I admire these two for being so selfless and wanting to do whatever they can to help other people. I don't know that I would have it in me to go to another country like this and take on the missions that they do. Their work is a noble work, especially a particular issue that they undertake as a side gig. They are very brave for standing up for what is right and doing what they can for justice.
I loved reading this installment of their story and am desperately hoping that the series can continue. And while you don't need to have necessarily read the first book in order to appreciate this one, I think you will get a lot more out of it if you do read the first one. It helps you to truly appreciate where they came from and how far they have come in the past couple of years.
4 1/2 out of 5 stars
I received a complimentary copy in exchange for my honest review.
I have to say that I am disappointed in Spider. He was such a good friend to Sienna when they were kids, and I thought he would continue to be so. But now as young adults, he has gotten too wrapped up in her and made a 180 from the friend he had been in the past. Jealousy is not a good look on him.
It's beautiful to see how far Sienna and Deni have come. They are embracing their lives and starting to fulfill their dreams. And now that they are together, sort of going back to their roots, they can find a new manifestation of themselves and their life goals. And that love that they have for each other, which never really went away, isn't going to hurt any.
I admire these two for being so selfless and wanting to do whatever they can to help other people. I don't know that I would have it in me to go to another country like this and take on the missions that they do. Their work is a noble work, especially a particular issue that they undertake as a side gig. They are very brave for standing up for what is right and doing what they can for justice.
I loved reading this installment of their story and am desperately hoping that the series can continue. And while you don't need to have necessarily read the first book in order to appreciate this one, I think you will get a lot more out of it if you do read the first one. It helps you to truly appreciate where they came from and how far they have come in the past couple of years.
4 1/2 out of 5 stars
I received a complimentary copy in exchange for my honest review.
June 10, 2018
After leaving the love of her life behind in Indonesia, Sienna is trying to find happiness again. She will never be able to forget Deni, but had no choice but to part ways with him. She's studying and working hard to have a good future, but missing people she loves has left its scars. Sienna hasn't been able to let anyone else in again, but someone is interested in her and she's trying hard to heal enough to be able to love again. When she's almost ready, she finds out Deni is coming to America. What will happen when she spends time with the boy she never thought she'd see again?
Sienna is ready for a next mission. In Cambodia she's going to help traumatized girls. Deni is joining the team, which means they have the chance to find out everything about the years they've had to miss each other. Can Sienna's heart handle being around him once more and what will happen when sparks fly like they did last time they were together? Will she give in or will she hide behind the walls she's carefully built around herself?
Where the Sea Takes Me is a beautiful romantic story. Sienna and Deni are soul mates, but they couldn't be together because they're from different countries. They've both tried to move on with their lives, but there was always something missing. Sienna is struggling with a huge Deni sized hole in her heart that doesn't want to heal, but seeing him again for a short time doesn't make it any easier for her to give her feelings a chance. They still don't live in the same country and could easily lose each other again. Sienna and Deni have something incredibly special and I couldn't turn the pages quickly enough to find out if fate would be kinder to them this time.
Heidi R. Kling combines serious issues with true love. She skillfully describes what the girls Sienna is looking after in Cambodia are going through and I was impressed by the honest and thorough way she tells their story. Where the Sea Takes Me is a moving love story with plenty of depth, which makes it incredible on many different levels. I absolutely loved this amazing story and was very happy Sienna and Deni got such a wonderful sequel.
Sienna is ready for a next mission. In Cambodia she's going to help traumatized girls. Deni is joining the team, which means they have the chance to find out everything about the years they've had to miss each other. Can Sienna's heart handle being around him once more and what will happen when sparks fly like they did last time they were together? Will she give in or will she hide behind the walls she's carefully built around herself?
Where the Sea Takes Me is a beautiful romantic story. Sienna and Deni are soul mates, but they couldn't be together because they're from different countries. They've both tried to move on with their lives, but there was always something missing. Sienna is struggling with a huge Deni sized hole in her heart that doesn't want to heal, but seeing him again for a short time doesn't make it any easier for her to give her feelings a chance. They still don't live in the same country and could easily lose each other again. Sienna and Deni have something incredibly special and I couldn't turn the pages quickly enough to find out if fate would be kinder to them this time.
Heidi R. Kling combines serious issues with true love. She skillfully describes what the girls Sienna is looking after in Cambodia are going through and I was impressed by the honest and thorough way she tells their story. Where the Sea Takes Me is a moving love story with plenty of depth, which makes it incredible on many different levels. I absolutely loved this amazing story and was very happy Sienna and Deni got such a wonderful sequel.
May 30, 2018
2 Stars
I'm so sad that my review isn't going to be the glowing appraisal that I had hoped for. I truly enjoyed the first book (both editions) and was longing for a satisfying conclusion to Deni and Sienna's interrupted romance. Although, I can't deny that there was a HEA/HFN ending, it was the journey to that point that frustrated me. Not due to angst or conflict, but due to the fractured writing. Not at all what I've come to expect from Kling after reading 4 of her previous stories - with Paint My Body Red being one of my all-time favorite YA books.
I now wish the story had stayed open-ended or with the 1st ed. conclusion. Although I got to know most of the characters well in the first book, not one of them felt fully developed in this one. If I hadn't met Deni in the first book, I wouldn't have known him at all, let alone be convinced of the romance. The whole story moved at a clipped pace with scenes ending and starting abruptly. Therefore, not feeling complete and leaving me with unanswered questions or having to make my own leaps. I liked the message behind the human trafficking story line, but it could have been so much more while entwining itself with Deni and Sienna's story. Overall, I'm happy to have a positive ending for Deni and Sienna, but I just wish it was better executed. Of course, all reviews are subjective and I wholly embrace my personal reading quirks. (This is my voluntary and unbiased review of an advanced copy of Where the Sea Takes Me via Entangled Teen and Netgalley.)
I'm so sad that my review isn't going to be the glowing appraisal that I had hoped for. I truly enjoyed the first book (both editions) and was longing for a satisfying conclusion to Deni and Sienna's interrupted romance. Although, I can't deny that there was a HEA/HFN ending, it was the journey to that point that frustrated me. Not due to angst or conflict, but due to the fractured writing. Not at all what I've come to expect from Kling after reading 4 of her previous stories - with Paint My Body Red being one of my all-time favorite YA books.
I now wish the story had stayed open-ended or with the 1st ed. conclusion. Although I got to know most of the characters well in the first book, not one of them felt fully developed in this one. If I hadn't met Deni in the first book, I wouldn't have known him at all, let alone be convinced of the romance. The whole story moved at a clipped pace with scenes ending and starting abruptly. Therefore, not feeling complete and leaving me with unanswered questions or having to make my own leaps. I liked the message behind the human trafficking story line, but it could have been so much more while entwining itself with Deni and Sienna's story. Overall, I'm happy to have a positive ending for Deni and Sienna, but I just wish it was better executed. Of course, all reviews are subjective and I wholly embrace my personal reading quirks. (This is my voluntary and unbiased review of an advanced copy of Where the Sea Takes Me via Entangled Teen and Netgalley.)
March 7, 2025
While I would say this is primarily about the relationship, there is a whole plot that is definitely a social issue. I do wish there had been one more pass by a proofer before going to print, and I do wonder about what came next , but I guess overall, it would have bogged the ending down to give those answers.
On a relationship level, I hate the line Sienna writes saying, "He understands me without me having to explain a single thing to him (p227)." First of all, I don't think it's true – she explains herself plenty (p145, for example ), but more importantly, it isn't something that should be held up as the gold standard of good relationships. Because 99.9% of good relationships require actual communication, not "s/he just gets me" magical thinking. And looking for "s/he just gets me" is begging for disappointment. I would believe a deep connection that is deepened by each partner sharing with the other before I believe a deep connection where they just know. This didn't ruin the book for me, but between that and Spider's assery, I did knock a star off.
On a relationship level, I hate the line Sienna writes saying, "He understands me without me having to explain a single thing to him (p227)." First of all, I don't think it's true – she explains herself plenty (p145, for example ), but more importantly, it isn't something that should be held up as the gold standard of good relationships. Because 99.9% of good relationships require actual communication, not "s/he just gets me" magical thinking. And looking for "s/he just gets me" is begging for disappointment. I would believe a deep connection that is deepened by each partner sharing with the other before I believe a deep connection where they just know. This didn't ruin the book for me, but between that and Spider's assery, I did knock a star off.
May 15, 2018
Much to my dismay, about a third of the way through this book, I realized it was the second book in a series! I finished anyway because I was so far into it, but I definitely plan to read the first book because I missed A LOT!
Besides that, I did really enjoy this book. Sienna is a college freshman who lost her mom a couple years ago and also traveled to Indonesia after a tsunami to help the people there. Her parents did work like this before and her father continued it after Sienna's mother's death. While in Indonesia she met and fell in love with an orphan there. She could not stay and be with him and left to go back to California, heartbroken. In this book, her love Deni comes to California out of the blue and they reconnect in an awkward way. Sienna and Deni go on a trip to Cambodia to help refugees there and spend more time together and are able to find their way back together. I loved all the backstory about Cambodia and the refugees they were treating, along with the whole international sex trade operation which is obviously still very active. I admired Sienna's and everyone in the book's passion to help others, especially those who can not help themselves. Very interesting book along with a sweet love story.. Looking forward to reading the first book soon!!!
Besides that, I did really enjoy this book. Sienna is a college freshman who lost her mom a couple years ago and also traveled to Indonesia after a tsunami to help the people there. Her parents did work like this before and her father continued it after Sienna's mother's death. While in Indonesia she met and fell in love with an orphan there. She could not stay and be with him and left to go back to California, heartbroken. In this book, her love Deni comes to California out of the blue and they reconnect in an awkward way. Sienna and Deni go on a trip to Cambodia to help refugees there and spend more time together and are able to find their way back together. I loved all the backstory about Cambodia and the refugees they were treating, along with the whole international sex trade operation which is obviously still very active. I admired Sienna's and everyone in the book's passion to help others, especially those who can not help themselves. Very interesting book along with a sweet love story.. Looking forward to reading the first book soon!!!
June 3, 2018
4.5 Stars
The romantic story which started in book one continues in book two. However, the setting is different and the characters are much matured, no less interesting though.
Deni worked hard and finally got his chance to study in USA. Sienna thought she had left him for good, but now here he is ... in her home, in her country, and she can't contain her excitement. Although, her love for him is still the same but now there are many complications. Spider wants more than being her friend, he has been so patient with her and she feels as though she owe him more. Also Deni probably has a wife somewhere in Indonesia. So she decides to just cherish their time together and not worry about the future. After all this is the guy she said yes to when he proposed.
Deni knows that differences between them may very well drift them apart again. But he plans to try his best and may be in the end they could be together somehow. For now they have a mission to worry about. As he accompanies team Hope to Cambodia, he feels as if history is about to repeat itself.
I loved this story just as much as I had loved book one. It's a great read and I think all romance loves will enjoy it, especially if you like stories closer to reality and touching sensitive issues.
The romantic story which started in book one continues in book two. However, the setting is different and the characters are much matured, no less interesting though.
Deni worked hard and finally got his chance to study in USA. Sienna thought she had left him for good, but now here he is ... in her home, in her country, and she can't contain her excitement. Although, her love for him is still the same but now there are many complications. Spider wants more than being her friend, he has been so patient with her and she feels as though she owe him more. Also Deni probably has a wife somewhere in Indonesia. So she decides to just cherish their time together and not worry about the future. After all this is the guy she said yes to when he proposed.
Deni knows that differences between them may very well drift them apart again. But he plans to try his best and may be in the end they could be together somehow. For now they have a mission to worry about. As he accompanies team Hope to Cambodia, he feels as if history is about to repeat itself.
I loved this story just as much as I had loved book one. It's a great read and I think all romance loves will enjoy it, especially if you like stories closer to reality and touching sensitive issues.
June 14, 2018
This is the follow up to Where I Found You but it can be read as a stand-alone.
2 years have passed since Sienna said goodbye to Deni. Now she is just about to finish up college for the summer and getting ready for a trip to Cambodia to help traumatized girls who have been sex trafficked. But she is in for the shock of a like when Deni makes a surprise appearance in her life – could this mean a second chance for them?
Ah… this book was just as actioned pack and full of adventure as the first. I thought for a second I could smell a love triangle in the works but thankfully this didn’t happen. On a side note, I would like a book about Spider.
It was great to see that Sienna had matured and grown p a bit, she has finally accepted her father���s relationship with Val and she has a little brother now. I felt like she was emotionally in a better place in this book.
The tension and happiness when she is reunited with Dani is just tangible. I loved it, it certainly hits you in all the feels. Deni is still the chill free spirited guy he was in the first book. I can’t tell you how much I was rooting for these two to sort through thier shit and be together, it was so obvious that they still have very strong feelings for one another.
Finally, the ending was just so perfect!
2 years have passed since Sienna said goodbye to Deni. Now she is just about to finish up college for the summer and getting ready for a trip to Cambodia to help traumatized girls who have been sex trafficked. But she is in for the shock of a like when Deni makes a surprise appearance in her life – could this mean a second chance for them?
Ah… this book was just as actioned pack and full of adventure as the first. I thought for a second I could smell a love triangle in the works but thankfully this didn’t happen. On a side note, I would like a book about Spider.
It was great to see that Sienna had matured and grown p a bit, she has finally accepted her father���s relationship with Val and she has a little brother now. I felt like she was emotionally in a better place in this book.
The tension and happiness when she is reunited with Dani is just tangible. I loved it, it certainly hits you in all the feels. Deni is still the chill free spirited guy he was in the first book. I can’t tell you how much I was rooting for these two to sort through thier shit and be together, it was so obvious that they still have very strong feelings for one another.
Finally, the ending was just so perfect!
May 18, 2018
Ahhh! Be still my beating heart. This book truly touches your soul. As per usual i accidentally stumble into the middle of a series or in this case the second book before reading book 1. However, with this this book I didn't feel that you had to read book 1 for this to make sense but I highly encourage as I went back and read it and it really deepened my love for this set of books.
The plot to this book was well written and I feel like the writer really did their research before hand. It gives you a more immersive experience into charities, how they work and the ups and downs of them. Seeing it from the perspective of the main character was quite nice. It feels like a peek behind the curtain of living that kind of life.
The romance in this book will make you swoon..especially if you read book one. You truly see two characters grown and open up and look at their inside self to decide what is or isn't best. The ending was absolutely perfect for this novel and gets 5 stars from me!
Thank you NetGalley and Entangled: Teen for a copy of this e-Arc in exchange for my honest review!
The plot to this book was well written and I feel like the writer really did their research before hand. It gives you a more immersive experience into charities, how they work and the ups and downs of them. Seeing it from the perspective of the main character was quite nice. It feels like a peek behind the curtain of living that kind of life.
The romance in this book will make you swoon..especially if you read book one. You truly see two characters grown and open up and look at their inside self to decide what is or isn't best. The ending was absolutely perfect for this novel and gets 5 stars from me!
Thank you NetGalley and Entangled: Teen for a copy of this e-Arc in exchange for my honest review!
June 6, 2018
Brilliant and eye-opening!
Thanks to NetGalley and Entangled Teen for the opportunity to read and review Where the Sea Takes Me by Heidi R. Kling!
Sienna has just finished college finals and is planning a Team Hope trip to Cambodia. Her friend, Spider, wants to make their relationship more than just friends and Sienna isn’t too sure about that idea. Her father knocks her off her feet when he calls to tell her that Deni will be visiting soon. Deni, as in the Deni that Sienna fell in love with two years ago and who she helped recover from the tsunami in Indonesia on her last Team Hope relief trip. Deni arrives and he and Sienna fall instep with each other and Spider doesn’t quite know how to handle the situation. Team Hope travels to Cambodia on a long ride and Sienna has her eyes opened wide to the beautiful country torn apart by war, poverty and sex trafficking. The Cambodian people have extreme perseverance and are living in the results of Pol Pot’s destruction. Realistic fiction, adventure and history create the story and a touch of romance brings it all forward. Where the Sea Takes Me is a brilliant, eye-opening read, 5 stars!
Thanks to NetGalley and Entangled Teen for the opportunity to read and review Where the Sea Takes Me by Heidi R. Kling!
Sienna has just finished college finals and is planning a Team Hope trip to Cambodia. Her friend, Spider, wants to make their relationship more than just friends and Sienna isn’t too sure about that idea. Her father knocks her off her feet when he calls to tell her that Deni will be visiting soon. Deni, as in the Deni that Sienna fell in love with two years ago and who she helped recover from the tsunami in Indonesia on her last Team Hope relief trip. Deni arrives and he and Sienna fall instep with each other and Spider doesn’t quite know how to handle the situation. Team Hope travels to Cambodia on a long ride and Sienna has her eyes opened wide to the beautiful country torn apart by war, poverty and sex trafficking. The Cambodian people have extreme perseverance and are living in the results of Pol Pot’s destruction. Realistic fiction, adventure and history create the story and a touch of romance brings it all forward. Where the Sea Takes Me is a brilliant, eye-opening read, 5 stars!
July 23, 2018
A different kind of story in the sense that it ties in and brings to light some current events/social issues not normally touched upon in your "usual read". It was a welcome change, yet, at the same time makes you a bit sad that there are still these issues in the world. Not having read the first book in this series, I jump into the story where Sienna is finally starting to let go of a life-changing fling she had with a boy she met in Indonesia two years ago. That is, until he suddenly reappears in her life, in HER world (back home in the states). They embark on another adventure, this time to Cambodia, where they are faced with a whole new beast--the sex trafficking industry. The two take on this whole new world and a second chance at their relationship in this emotionally packed tale. Their second chance story was so intense, I'm quite interested in reading their original story! Where the Sea Takes Me is a good read for those who are bored of the meet-cute-happily-ever-after cycle and are looking for something a little more without taking too much of the romance out of the equation!
May 23, 2018
Deni and Sienna are back together after two years. We learn what happened to Deni during that time only by his telling a summary of it. Spider seemed to not be what he should have been just by his actions in this one. I thought he was a very good friend to Sienna and wouldn't act the way he did even with the ways things were going with Sienna. I liked the romance between Deni and Sienna and enjoyed reading about their trip. Both of them experiencing a new place together was a plus. The reason for the 3 star was the fact that they were going after a sex trader by themselves. These are 2 teens in a strange country with no past experience in doing this. It seemed really reckless and off to me. If they would have stayed focused on the therapy part of it and left the tracking down to adults it would have been a 4 for me. I received an ebook at no charge for which I voluntarily provided an honest review.
June 2, 2018
I was about 75/80 % done the book before I realized that this was the second in the series. Doh! Aside from that, this was a pretty enjoyable read.
I have only read one other book about sex trafficking so when I noticed this book I thought I would give it a shot. There isn’t many books like this to my knowledge. I think there should be more because this does happen a lot.
Sienna is pursuing her love of charity work which I find really noble of her.
She has a best friend named Spider whom happens to be in love with her. He wants to be more than just a friend but she just wants to be friends.
Just when everything seems to be going great Deni comes into Sienna’s life and it messes up everything for Spider.
I found this book to be very well written and very informative. It’s crazy to think that there is a world like this out there.
**I voluntarily read an advanced readers copy of this book. All thoughts and options are my own. Thank you to Netgalley in providing me this book.**
June 3, 2018
I received this ARC from netgalley.com in exchange for an honest review. I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
I went into this book knowing I was missing the start of the character development from book 1 but the description made me have to dive right in. The story is strongly about a girl who wants to make a difference in the world, in a positive way while experiencing life and adventure. I quickly became fond of Sienna but never really felt a connection to Deni which may be due to a lack of reading his story in the first book.
The raw emotion of the child trafficking in this book is delivered well for being such a tough topic. It brings real world problems to the front of mind just by reading a story. This piece of the story was solid.
I will be reading book 1 soon to get an understanding of Deni, and because I love Siennas character.
3.5 out of 5 stars without reading the first book.
I went into this book knowing I was missing the start of the character development from book 1 but the description made me have to dive right in. The story is strongly about a girl who wants to make a difference in the world, in a positive way while experiencing life and adventure. I quickly became fond of Sienna but never really felt a connection to Deni which may be due to a lack of reading his story in the first book.
The raw emotion of the child trafficking in this book is delivered well for being such a tough topic. It brings real world problems to the front of mind just by reading a story. This piece of the story was solid.
I will be reading book 1 soon to get an understanding of Deni, and because I love Siennas character.
3.5 out of 5 stars without reading the first book.
June 4, 2018
Where the Sea Takes Me is a rich, vivid novel set in Cambodia. It is beautifully written in a way that sucks you right into the story, the characters, the setting, and swallows you up.
The story revolves around Sienna and Deni, who are volunteering in Cambodia. They are well-developed characters, as are all the side characters around them. The romance will have you really rooting for them, and it doesn't follow any of the tropes so common in YA. It's different and refreshing, and it has a great plot around the romance.
This will open your mind and transport you away to a beautiful land of temples and junk boat river cruises.
The story revolves around Sienna and Deni, who are volunteering in Cambodia. They are well-developed characters, as are all the side characters around them. The romance will have you really rooting for them, and it doesn't follow any of the tropes so common in YA. It's different and refreshing, and it has a great plot around the romance.
This will open your mind and transport you away to a beautiful land of temples and junk boat river cruises.
June 26, 2018
Despite not reading the first book in the series it wasn't difficult to follow the plot. The author gives hints throughout the book about what happened before when Deni and Sea met without spoiling the book for those who didn't read the first part of the series. I really enjoyed this story. The couple is adorable and the book addresses an important issue which is sex trafficking.
August 13, 2018
Nope. Not for me. I'm just not into love triangles. But I know some chick lit lover? romance lover will enjoy this story. It's not bad, I suppose, just not my type. Oh, and read Pt.1 before this one, it may make more sense..
I received a Kindle ARC from Netgalley in exchange for a fair review.
I received a Kindle ARC from Netgalley in exchange for a fair review.
June 5, 2018
Basically, this is a book in two parts.
In first part, there is love triangle between Sienna, Deni and Spider. This, even Sienna agrees to, is not so great. Spider likes Sienna and wants her to move in with him. Sienna is struck in her past, that is, Deni. Deni is back from wherever he was for two years. Now Sienna is really in dilemma about her desire and her duty. She yearns to go back to Deni yet she is afraid of being left to collect her shattered heart like two years ago.
Sienna becomes the object, for which the two boys seemed to be in the middle of the fight and this book was turning to be a Twilight, when the second part starts. Spider is gone and both Sienna and Deni are on Indonesia trip.
The Indonesia trip is to empower the children who escaped from the human trafficking gang. Sienna is responsible for teaching the three survival girls who survived the trauma of body business. She comes face to face with the reality that prevailed and the effect it had on the girls. She vows to bring this to an end. Deni is there to shoot the film so that he could use it to spread awareness against this all and bring more help to them.
The writing style is easy to read and simple. The characters are a little bit jumbled up and there isn't any attraction to them. Only the character of Deni seemed a little bit intriguing, otherwise the characters were a little bit off. The story seemed better in the second part than the first one. There is a sequel coming to this book and I hope Spider will be given a little more importance than just Sea and Deni. The little bit more information about Sea's mom would have been great to read.
Still this book is good and one can try this if one wants to read about two broken souls that heal each other in their own broken way. They both lives apart yet want to be united into one.
This e-ARC was provided to me by Netgalley. I want to thank the publisher and Netgalley for this review copy. All the thoughts are my own and honest.
In first part, there is love triangle between Sienna, Deni and Spider. This, even Sienna agrees to, is not so great. Spider likes Sienna and wants her to move in with him. Sienna is struck in her past, that is, Deni. Deni is back from wherever he was for two years. Now Sienna is really in dilemma about her desire and her duty. She yearns to go back to Deni yet she is afraid of being left to collect her shattered heart like two years ago.
Sienna becomes the object, for which the two boys seemed to be in the middle of the fight and this book was turning to be a Twilight, when the second part starts. Spider is gone and both Sienna and Deni are on Indonesia trip.
The Indonesia trip is to empower the children who escaped from the human trafficking gang. Sienna is responsible for teaching the three survival girls who survived the trauma of body business. She comes face to face with the reality that prevailed and the effect it had on the girls. She vows to bring this to an end. Deni is there to shoot the film so that he could use it to spread awareness against this all and bring more help to them.
The writing style is easy to read and simple. The characters are a little bit jumbled up and there isn't any attraction to them. Only the character of Deni seemed a little bit intriguing, otherwise the characters were a little bit off. The story seemed better in the second part than the first one. There is a sequel coming to this book and I hope Spider will be given a little more importance than just Sea and Deni. The little bit more information about Sea's mom would have been great to read.
Still this book is good and one can try this if one wants to read about two broken souls that heal each other in their own broken way. They both lives apart yet want to be united into one.
This e-ARC was provided to me by Netgalley. I want to thank the publisher and Netgalley for this review copy. All the thoughts are my own and honest.
May 12, 2018
Sienna and her family work as part of a relief organization. Two years ago, she met Deni while working in Indonesia to help rescue tsunami victims. They fell in love but Deni has a fiancee that he thought had died. Sienna leaves with a broken heart when his fiancee comes back. Sienna is back in California in college when Deni comes to her home so he can show his film of the tsunami rescue efforts. She has a boyfriend and Deni has a fiance but they still have deep, passionate feelings for each other. A mission to Cambodia comes up to assist victims of sex trafficking and Sienna is going. Her boyfriend is unhappy about her leaving and because Deni is going ,also. They separate until she can decide what she wants. They meet someone while there whose sister has been kidnapped by the traffickers and try to help rescue her and others. Sienna worries about losing her heart to Deni again and he has secrets he won't share. Will Sienna have to live without Deni ? Will the girls be rescued from the sex trade? This book is well written and researched. It will break your heart but gives hope at the same time. It is full of love. Sex is hinted at but no intimate details. This book stands on its own. This is second in a series. I bought the first book because the author writes what touches the soul. I received this book from Net Galley for an honest review.
January 26, 2019
Man, I really really struggled writing this review. So first, thank you to the publisher for reaching out and providing me with a free arc in exchange for an honest review.
This book is the sequel to Where I Found You and it starts off 2 years after Sienna returns home from a life changing summer in Indonesia, where she worked with orphan victims of the tsunami and where she fell in love with Dani {which broke my heart}. Fate stepped in and she had to return home, leaving him behind, but alas, just as she was starting to maybe move on again, fate stepped in again when her tells her that Dani is coming to visit them and all her emotions are rising to the surface again but will it be the same? After all, 2 years is a long time. That being said, this book was so uniquely written and captivating with a deep topic at the forefront-human/sex trafficking. Which was really freaky to read about since it’s such a sad and harrowing reality.
All in all, this was a really feel good romance. Take chances, you never know where it Might lead you.
This book is the sequel to Where I Found You and it starts off 2 years after Sienna returns home from a life changing summer in Indonesia, where she worked with orphan victims of the tsunami and where she fell in love with Dani {which broke my heart}. Fate stepped in and she had to return home, leaving him behind, but alas, just as she was starting to maybe move on again, fate stepped in again when her tells her that Dani is coming to visit them and all her emotions are rising to the surface again but will it be the same? After all, 2 years is a long time. That being said, this book was so uniquely written and captivating with a deep topic at the forefront-human/sex trafficking. Which was really freaky to read about since it’s such a sad and harrowing reality.
All in all, this was a really feel good romance. Take chances, you never know where it Might lead you.
June 3, 2018
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
I went into this book knowing I was missing the start of the character development from book 1 but the description made me have to dive right in. The story is strongly about a girl who wants to make a difference in the world, in a positive way while experiencing life and adventure. I quickly became fond of Sienna but never really felt a connection to Deni which may be due to a lack of reading his story in the first book.
The raw emotion of the child trafficking in this book is delivered well for being such a tough topic. It brings real world problems to the front of mind just by reading a story. This piece of the story was solid.
I will be reading book 1 soon to get an understanding of Deni, and because I love Siennas character.
3.5 out of 5 stars without reading the first book.
I went into this book knowing I was missing the start of the character development from book 1 but the description made me have to dive right in. The story is strongly about a girl who wants to make a difference in the world, in a positive way while experiencing life and adventure. I quickly became fond of Sienna but never really felt a connection to Deni which may be due to a lack of reading his story in the first book.
The raw emotion of the child trafficking in this book is delivered well for being such a tough topic. It brings real world problems to the front of mind just by reading a story. This piece of the story was solid.
I will be reading book 1 soon to get an understanding of Deni, and because I love Siennas character.
3.5 out of 5 stars without reading the first book.
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