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I Run to You

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When you think you're unlovable, how do you find the courage to love?
All of Alyssa Bennet's life, the two people who were supposed to love her the most have let her down. Anna, her best friend, and her beloved grandmother, Nona, are the only constants in her every day; that is until the unbelievably perfect Landon Daniels comes along.
For the first time in her life, Alyssa begins to believe that she might just be worthy of being loved. When the unexpected happens and threatens to snatch away her first chance at happiness, Alyssa must decide if she wants to continue her journey alone, or embrace the love she's always wished for.
Women's Fiction author, Jennifer Sivec explores hope, courage, and mortality in this gripping novel about one woman's struggle to discover what it means to come to terms with your past, and above all, love yourself enough to be loved.

198 pages, Paperback

First published June 1, 2014

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About the author

Jennifer Sivec

16 books353 followers
Jennifer Sivec writes beautifully broken stories with heart.

She is attracted to and writes stories with characters that are complicated, flawed and completely imperfect. Her books are often a reflection of life, encompassing difficult subjects such as cancer, addiction, abandonment, and abuse.

She writes with a raw, complex, yet hopeful approach often weaving tragic stories with honesty and grace, creating unforgettable characters.

Jennifer’s passion for reading and sharing stories is her therapy, which gives her perspective and peace of mind.

She lives in Ohio with her husband, two boys, and herd of dogs who create balance and levity for her. She loves her crazy life and wonderful readers, and is grateful for all of it, every day.

You can follow her on BookBub, Facebook, Instagram, Pinterest, Twitter, Wordpress, Patreon, TikTok, or Amazon. She would love to hear from you at jennifersivec@yahoo.com.

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Displaying 1 - 30 of 33 reviews
Profile Image for Donna Porter.
1,034 reviews9 followers
July 1, 2014
Wow what a beautiful shorter love story. Alyssa is a 25 year old waitress trying to finish her teaching degree. Anna has been her best friend since they were three. Alyssa lives with Tom her boyfriend and has for five years. She isn't happy with her relationship and she finally tells Tom its over. He tells her to pack her clothes and leave. She does and she moves home with her Nona. She has raised her most of her life because her mom left her at a young age and her dad was so devastated that he only visited occasionally. She has always believed her mom would one day return and tell her she loved her and was sorry she left. After Alyssa left Tom she had her other friend Landon help her move her stuff to her grandma's home. Landon had always liked Alyssa and she thought they were great friends. Somehow she started to see him as more than a friend. As their relationship develops, Alyssa becomes ill. This is such a sweet story and I know you will read it in one setting if you have the time. It's a great story
Profile Image for Elizabeth  Shuey.
157 reviews14 followers
August 10, 2015
I received this book from the author in exchange for an honest review.
I really enjoyed this story about 25 year old Alyssa, who battles some issues that are life challenging and changing. The writing was great, I flowed right through it in one sitting, and the story line is very realistic. Friends to lovers mixed in with some drama is one of my favorites to read and I'm glad I got the chance to read this one. I'm a big fan of this author and I can't wait to read more from her.
Profile Image for Tara Dawn (Colourful WordWench).
175 reviews27 followers
August 10, 2016
*I received this book in exchange for an honest review for the blog tour.*

This little book was soooo good. It's not my normal read, but I read the synopsis and it sucked me in. I'm really glad I read it because it was a beautiful little book.
***********************
Alyssa Bennet is a 25-year-old girl who is just going through the motions of life. Stuck in a dead end relationship because she had nothing better to look for, she has wasted years of her life being completely unhappy and never caring enough to say or do anything about it. On the morning of her 25th bday she experiences a god awful moment with her live in boyfriend and finally has a moment of clarity...she needs to get the hell out. She needs to escape this shitty life she has forced upon herself. So she talks to her best friend, Anna, who is pretty much her sister and gets the pep talk she needs to break up with the douchebag. Really there is no need to even give him a name. She moves in with her grandma (Nona) because her dad and her aren't close and her mom took off when she was a child and she hasn't heard from her in years.
Alyssa asks one of her friends from work to help her move. Besides Anna, Landon is pretty much the only other friend she has. He agrees to help her move and they go out for drinks afterwards. This is when Alyssa finally admits to herself that Landon is more than a good looking guy. On the 1-10 scale, he's a 10...and she's not. For a second things get a little weird between them and she does what she what you will know her for best, pushing people away. During the next few weeks while she is avoiding Landon, she starts to get sick and goes to the doctor. Her Nona and Anna go to her follow up visit with her to learn that she has cancer.
Landon is finally able to get Alyssa to see him, and over a period of time lets her know how much he cares for and always has. He's been in love with her for a while she just refused to see it. Alyssa can't believe that a guy as hot as Landon would have any interest in her at all, nonetheless while possibly dying from cancer. She's sick, her hair is falling out, and she is moody as shit. She wants to be happy so badly, but she just doesn't feel worthy of it all. She has it stuck in her head that if her mom couldn't even love her, and her dad pushes her away, why would Landon even want to. The poor girl goes through rounds of pushing everyone away to keep from getting hurt and to keep from hurting them.
At one point, she gets the chance to find out about her mother. She has wanted to reconcile with her for years. Her family is totally against it, so she sneaks away to meet a friend of her moms. While visiting, her Nona has a heartache and is rushed to the ER and no one can find her. She makes it to the hospital only to go down hill herself and be admitted also. She starts her shit again pushing everyone away, scared to let anyone in. Fortunately for her, those around her love her and understand where she is coming from. Some family secrets are revealed, she has to decide if she is gonna beg forgiveness from Landon so she can get him back, and she needs to learn to come to terms with her mother.
**************************
I enjoyed this story so much. It was heart touching and heart wrenching. You completely feel for Alyssa. She doesn't know how to feel. One day she's on top of the world, the next she's knocked completely off of her feet. With life long insecurities embedded deep within her, no wonder she pushes people away. She can be heartlessly cold at times, but when she is doing you can completely see why. Your heart breaks for her. This girl who has never had normal happiness doesn't know how to accept it, but she definitely deserves it. Her Nona reminds me of my mother (who was actually my grandmother). She made me wish my mother was still alive. Her Nona was such a wonderful woman. Even though she is having her own health probs, she wraps Alyssa in her arms and in her love and won't let go of her. Anna is the best friend everyone should experience at least once. Loving, forgiving, ass kicking when need be, she is a great friend. Landon...heart of freaking gold. If I were Alyssa I would've grabbed hold of that boy and sunk my nails and teeth in him. He would not be escaping me! He is exactly what Alyssa needs, and Alyssa is exactly what he needs. She keeps him on his toes and answers his need for his hero complex. He wants to be there for her. He wants to be what she has never had. He wants to save her outlook on love and relationships. They both have experienced some really shitty circumstances in life and bond more because of that.

Pick up this book. It's such a sweet read that will strike a cord in your heart.
Profile Image for April Harrison.
420 reviews5 followers
February 23, 2016
When you think you're unlovable, how do you find the courage to love?

All of Alyssa Bennet's life, the two people who were supposed to love her the most have let her down. Anna, her best friend, and her beloved grandmother, Nona, are the only constants in her every day; that is until the unbelievably perfect Landon Daniels comes along. For the first time in her life, Alyssa begins to believe that she just might be worthy of being 
loved.

When the unexpected happens and threatens to snatch away her first chance at happiness, Alyssa must decide if she wants to continue her journey alone, or embrace the love she's always wished for.

Women's Fiction author, Jennifer Sivec explores hope, courage, and mortality in this gripping novel about one woman's struggle to discover what it means to come to terms with your past, and above all, love yourself enough to be loved
Have you ever started reading a book and get on a certain chapter and you realize you have already read it? Well I have and I am so glad I read it again. It was just as good the second time around than the first.
If you have never read any of Jennifer Sivec's books than you definitely should start by reading I Run to You. The story is heartrending, and gives you a feeling of what true love can be like.
After being with her boyfriend Tom for 5 years, Alyssa decides she is going to break up with him. When she thinks there is a possibility she could be pregnant, Alyssa hopes for the best but the news is negative for pregnancy, but she receives news that is devastating.
Alyssa’s co-worker Landon befriends her, and they start to get closer. If though Alyssa doesn't have much faith in herself, so she starts to push Landon away. You see, Alyssa didn’t have the best family life. Her mother abandons her, her dad was emotionally unavailable but the 2 people she does have is her best friend Anna and her grandmother.
Can Alyssa find the love that she is looking for or does she push it all away?
Loved this book! I couldn't put it down. Love the characters and the storyline. I can't imagine going through what Alyssa went through. Thank you Jennifer for letting me fall in love with Alyssa and Landon. I can’t wait to read more of your books.
Profile Image for Em The.
92 reviews9 followers
July 2, 2014
What a beautiful, heart wrenching love story this was!

The synopsis for this book intrigued me and I wasn't disappointed. This is a heartfelt journey of discovery and realisation for Alyssa the leading lady in this story. SHe has had had fair share of knocks in life but is wallowing so deep in her own self pity that she is missing the world going on around her.

She is supported by some fantastic side characters, Anna, her best friend and the one she classes as her sister; Landon, another permanent fixture and rock for her (and also a hot and extremely gorgeous character too) and her Nona who is at times hilarious yet cares deeply for her. But after having a less than fantastic childhood, she dwells too long on her own perceived failings and blames them on her absent mother.

At times I was frustrated with Alyssa's attitude and her lack of self worth but understood why and that a lot was owing to her troubled childhood. Her attitude and actions towards those who deeply care for her are at times heartbreaking and when you then add the devastating turn of events in the book to the mix it adds a high dash of angst and a heap more self deprecating behaviour. BUT for some reason I couldn't stop reading! It gripped me from the first word.

One redeeming feature of this story is Landon and his utter devotion to helping Alyssa through everything. He is truly amazing and as book boyfriends go he's a gem!

It was difficult to see where this story would end because of the deep subject matter I had my doubts that I would possibly be utterly heartbroken! I won't say too much in case it spoils it but I think the ending was perfect and will admit to shedding a few tears! I also read through the acknowledgements and it made it all the more poignant when you read about Jennifer's niece!

All in all this is a beautiful story of love, realisation and heartbreak but soooo worth once clicking. It was a fab change from the normal for me and I absolutely became immersed in Alyssa and Landon's story and would highly recommend this. Its a reasonably short read and perfect for a sunny afternoon in the garden!!

Profile Image for DreamsAndScrems Bookaholics.
152 reviews50 followers
March 23, 2017
***** April's 5 Star Review ***** 5 Dreams and Screams
When you think you're unlovable, how do you find the courage to love?

All of Alyssa Bennet's life, the two people who were supposed to love her the most have let her down. Anna, her best friend, and her beloved grandmother, Nona, are the only constants in her every day; that is until the unbelievably perfect Landon Daniels comes along. For the first time in her life, Alyssa begins to believe that she just might be worthy of being loved.

When the unexpected happens and threatens to snatch away her first chance at happiness, Alyssa must decide if she wants to continue her journey alone, or embrace the love she's always wished for.

Women's Fiction author, Jennifer Sivec explores hope, courage, and mortality in this gripping novel about one woman's struggle to discover what it means to come to terms with your past, and above all, love yourself enough to be loved.

Have you ever started reading a book and get on a certain chapter and you realize you have already read it? Well I have and I am so glad I read it again. It was just as good the second time around than the first.

If you have never read any of Jennifer Sivec's books than you definitely should start by reading I Run to You. The story is heartrending, and gives you a feeling of what true love can be like.
After being with her boyfriend Tom for 5 years, Alyssa decides she is going to break up with him. When she thinks there is a possibility she could be pregnant, Alyssa hopes for the best but the news is negative for pregnancy, but she receives news that is devastating.

Alyssa’s co-worker Landon befriends her, and they start to get closer. If though Alyssa doesn't have much faith in herself, so she starts to push Landon away. You see, Alyssa didn’t have the best family life. Her mother abandons her, her dad was emotionally unavailable but the 2 people she does have is her best friend Anna and her grandmother.

Can Alyssa find the love that she is looking for or does she push it all away?

Thank you Jennifer for letting me fall in love with Alyssa and Landon. I can’t wait to read more of your books.
Profile Image for Tbird London.
558 reviews4 followers
December 6, 2014
I wasn’t sure how I felt about this book till I was at the end. Alyssa started out rather dark and not a character I was going to be able to understand but as the story unfolded I could see what made her so prone to run from situations and people. This knowledge gave me more of an understanding towards her and I was then invested in her story.

She had been with her boyfriend for a while, he thought things were going well, but she had never been happy. She finally breaks it off with him and goes back to live with her Nona (grandmother) and tries to figure out what life is going to entail for her next. She has her best friend Anna and Landon, but soon the feelings Landon is showing her begins to confuse her and her desire to run again comes out.

Landon is what she considers a perfect 10 and there is no way he could ever settle for someone like Alyssa but then even her father and mother couldn’t settle having her for a daughter. She longs to know where her mother is, she thinks about having a relationship with her dad, but Landon keeps pressing her to give him a chance. When she is given a medical issue that she has to deal with, it will be time for her to accept the answers she has searched for and some of those answers will bring her love and acceptance while others will bring more heart break and confusion. People in her life are trying to protect her by hiding the truth, she is going to have to be strong enough to accept the answers she is about to find.

I ended up enjoying the book but will admit the beginning was not my favorite part. As I said I couldn’t get Alyssa, she was just an annoying woman to me that needed to grow up and stop living in the past. As her story was told, I felt horrible for thinking that about her as I see she was trying to move on, life just wouldn’t let her. The author did a great job though with the balance of her development, while developing the other characters rather quickly so I was engaged enough to not stop reading.
Profile Image for T.M. Payne.
Author 37 books93 followers
November 3, 2015
Book: I Run to You
Author: Jennifer Sivec
Publication Date: 7/2/2014
Reviewed by: Tammy Payne- Book Nook Nuts
My Rating: 5 Stars


REVIEW

This story grabbed me from the get go and I finished it in one sitting.
Please have your tissue box when you go to read it but I truly recommend it if you love stories that grab you and true romance.
Alyssa has lived her life never wanting to get to close to anyone although she has had the same boyfriend for roughly 6 years even knowing there is no love there. He doesn't treat her badly per say but he doesn't show love either.
She finally decides to break it off with him and when that happens of course he shouts out his love for her but its too late. Lys moves back in with her grandmother who has been her mother all her life.

She gets together one evening with a guy she works with Landon who has been a very good friend to her but things are awkward between them and she is confused but lets it go for now. She loves hanging out with Landon. She learns they both have had a shit life.

Anna who is her best female friend is getting married soon and Lys wonders if she will ever have that life or if she even wants. Then all that could go wrong in her life does. Alyssa finds she needs her friends and what is left of her family more than ever.
Will she ever have any goodness in her life?
The only thing I would have liked more in this story is more of an ending.

Riveting story I enjoyed every single wording. I highly recommend it and sorry I cannot give you more without spoiling it. Pick it up and find out if Alyssa ever gets her happily ever after.

I was gifted a copy of this book for my honest review.
Jennifer Sivec
Profile Image for Twinsie Talk Angie J.
1,820 reviews
June 3, 2014
check out this review and others at
www.Twinsietalk.com
www.facebook.com/twinsietalk
@twinsietalk

I received this book for an honest review.

I looked at the blurb of this book and thought "cool" and "sounds different"....so i agreed to read it.

The story is about unhappy Alyssa who decides to break off her miserable 5 year relationshp with Tom to find her crazy happy love. She runs back to her Nona's (grandma) house and with the help of her best friend Landon packs her stuff up.

Landon breaks down Alyssa's walls and she freaks out that this 10 wants to be with her 7 self. Well a NEAR KISS sends Alyssa running for the hills. Then she notices some health issues and goes to the doctor. Well a bad diagnosis is given and she tried to hid it from Landon. He shows up and basically asserts himself into her life demanding she tell him everything. I have to say I LOVE Landon. He is a true Jem of a character. Alyssa made me MENTAL by pushing away everyone who loves her throughout the novel. I mean she is very self destructive. I did love the way her Nona tells her like it is when Alyssa does something that she promised Nona she wouldnt do.....seeing Nona sad at us is noot a good situation.

The novel is short and I finished it in one sitting. I loved the way the author lets us see the flaws of Alyssa but then lets us, the readers, experience her "life lessons" when she finally opens her eyes and heart to the people all around her!!
Profile Image for Amy Eppig bull.
186 reviews9 followers
June 18, 2014
Sometimes the only thing that can get me out of a book funk is a good love story. This was a good love story.

Alyssa is 25 and a waitress and just floating in life. Things get interesting when she breaks it off with her long time boyfriend and decides to be a solo lady for a while. Thankfully Alyssa has Nona, her wonderful kind hearted grandma who raised her most of her life. Questions about her parents have always weighed heavy on her heart and when she starts to question why her mother and sometimes father were not around, she is stone walled. NO answers from Nona.
Landon, Alyssa's friend helped her move, has been a shoulder to cry on, and happens to have a crush on her. Trying to deny their feelings for each other and stay friends isn't always the easiest plan. When things start to spiral and Alyssa finds her life heading in a direction she never thought imaginable, she does the one thing she is good at ... she runs.

The creativity and captive writing really drew me into this story. I loved the character development and the intensity in their relationships with each other. A follow up to this story would be amazing, though it did feel like a complete novel. My selfish reader side makes me want more. This was a great easy read, perfect for a Sunday afternoon poolside :)
Profile Image for Anny hernandez.
1,181 reviews13 followers
July 1, 2014
I was provided a copy of the book by the Author for an honest review.

I just finish reading this book, and I love it, love the characters, this was a sweet love story, I have to say that there where some characters that I couldn't stand at all, I am gone keep this short since I don't want to give anything away.

The story begging with Alyssa, she just turn twenty five, she a waitress, on her birthday she woke up with her boyfriend, breaking the condom and she start to freak out, since she don't want to have a baby, since she cant stand them at all, during the day she start to think and she knows that she don't want to spend the rest of her life with her boyfriend Tom, so when she tell him that she don't want to be with him anymore, he tell her to get out, that's when she gets help from her best friend Landon, and she start to see him not as a friend but as a man, Landon help her move back in with her grandmother, I love her grandmother she tell it how it is, Landon had always had feeling for her, and he make it his mission to break her walls down.

I really love and enjoy reading this book, I love the way how Landon is with her, and love it more when she finally open up to him, I just love the book, Author Jennifer Sivec THANK YOU for introducing me to this awesome characters and this amazing book love it.
Profile Image for Cranky - The Book Curmudgeon.
2,091 reviews155 followers
September 26, 2016


***4 cranky stars***

Alyssa has led a very sheltered life, having only her grandmother and best friend to lean on. Ever since her mother left her when she was young, she’s had a crippling fear of getting close to people, thinking they will also leave.



Just when she’s realizing she has feelings for her friend Landon, she gets life altering news, and in its wake, her past and present collide. Thinking she’s protecting him, she pushes Landon away, but he pushes right back, and starts the fight to prove to her he’ll stand by her side through it all.



Heartbreakingly true to life, this is a story of struggles and triumphs, learning to love yourself and trusting your heart. We don’t always see what’s right in front of us, but when we do, it can change everything.


Profile Image for Annamaria.
702 reviews12 followers
March 3, 2016
Title: I Run to You
Series: Stand-alone Novel
Author: Jennifer Sivec
Genre: Romance
Stars: 5/5 Stars
Reviewer: Annamaria
Published: Jan 10, 2016
Publisher: Booktrope Editions
Pages: 167


Five Beautiful Stars! Alyssa is going from day to day without thinking, she has been stuck in a relationship which isn't going anywhere. She breaks up with her boyfriend on the morning of her twenty-fifth birthday and moves in with her grandma (Nona). Landon who is one of her friends, but he sees her as more than a friend, helps Alyssa move. Alyssa and Landon start to get closer but then Alyssa gets sick and she pushes everyone away. Will Landon and Alyssa ever have their happily ever after? This book is both heartbreaking and heartwarming. I recommend the box of tissues be close by. The story is beautifully written and the characters interaction is intense. This book is one you don't want to miss out on!

I received this book as an ARC for an honest review. This book was read and reviewed by Annamaria for Alpha Book Club.

Plot: 5
Chemistry: 5
Pacing: 5
Ending: 5
Character Development: 5
Profile Image for Nikki Lostinsweetwords blog .
69 reviews7 followers
June 23, 2016
5 Stars
I absolutely loved this story, it was a heartwarming emotional roller-coaster.
Alyssa has spent her life wishing for her mother to come back into her life, the only two people close to her are her best friend and her grandmother everyone else she keeps at arms length for fair of being left. After realising she might have feelings for her friend Landon she thinks this might be a chance at happiness until she recieves some life changing news. Can Landon convince her that he'll stand by her through anything or will Alyssa drive him away?
Landon has always had feelings for Alyssa but he settled for being her friend now that she's left her boyfriend he makes his feelings known. Suddenly Alyssa starts ignoring him and when he finally sees her she drops the news of what's been going on but Landon wants to help her not run away like Alyssa thinks. Can Landon deal with Alyssa's emotions or will he walk away forever?
This was a fantastically written book of Alyssa's struggles to come to terms with her past and stop it holding back her future so she can move forward and love. 
Profile Image for Joy Pantorillo.
95 reviews10 followers
July 2, 2014
Full review can be found at: http://bujoijoi22.wordpress.com/2014/...

*ARC provided in exchange for an honest review*

It was a mixed feeling for me after reading. It wasn’t something that I expected but in a bit of a good way.

I am still happy that I read the story and definitely recommended for those who are looking for inspirational – romance reads.

To Jennifer Sivec and Debra of Book Enthusiast Promotions, thank you so much for the opportunity to read this and happy release day!
321 reviews3 followers
August 13, 2015
Alyssa's story

Alyssa has grown up without a mom and a dad who still misses his wife and still hopes she will come back. He and Alyssa are not living their lives and Alyssa is pushing people away.

Alyssa stayed with Tom even though she didn't love him. Anna, her best friend didn't like him and wanted her to leave him. Tom was not the best boyfriend. Landon is Alyssa's close friend from work.

When things happen to Alyssa to change her life, she pushes the people close to her away. She doesn't know how to let people love her.
Profile Image for Samantha Soccorso.
228 reviews35 followers
May 9, 2016
Jennifer Sivec has done it again with another well written novel. She knows how her readers want the book and how she wants the characters to sound. She brings her characters to life in such away that nothing can change your mind about them. This book has some tough topics, but in the end love is found. I believe that finding love and believing not to give up is what kept the main character alive.

In order to find out what took place with all the characters and the storyline I highly recommend the book. All of Jennifer Sivev's books will have you hooked from the first to the last page.
Profile Image for Patty Vowell.
72 reviews2 followers
August 15, 2015
This was an amazing book that I was able to feel every emotion as if they were my own. I love that Jennifer writes about real situations that so very many face everyday. This book definitely brought some tears to my eyes but it had made me laugh as well. Nothing about it is predicable whatsoever and once you start reading it you won't want to put it down because you will be so eager to find out what happens next.
Profile Image for Shannon Shafer.
1 review1 follower
June 20, 2014
I am very honored to have received an ARC copy to read. This is a truly amazing story of love, trials and learning to let go and live. This book was very well written...I felt like I knew Alyssa and Landon personally, and I could relate to the storyline easily. If you like a good love story I run to you is definitely a must read for everyone!!!
Profile Image for Melissa.
32 reviews16 followers
July 31, 2014
This book was so beautiful. The emotions the characters went through pulled at your heart strings and made you have hope for the HEA.
I wished it were a little longer so we got a glimpse into the happiness Alyssa would have in her life after her battle.
I'm looking forward to reading more from Jennifer!
Profile Image for Kim.
119 reviews14 followers
November 21, 2015
I Run to You is not your typical fairytale romance. The storyline includes a sensitive subject, so be prepared for lots of emotions that possibly will start a good cry (depending on how sensitive you actually are). The characters are enjoyable and loveable. Overall I enjoyed this read and would recommend it to my friends.
**ARC provided in exchange for an honest review**
Profile Image for Stephanie Compton.
Author 4 books99 followers
July 2, 2014
This book hit home a little bit for me as I can relate to some of what Alyssa is going through. I enjoyed reading about her struggles and how she battled with herself about her feelings. This book took a couple of turns that I wasn't prepared for, but things turned out well. I recommend it!
Profile Image for Sandra Love.
Author 11 books276 followers
June 20, 2014
Full review to come during her blog tour
Profile Image for Jenn.
28 reviews1 follower
February 1, 2016
OMG, beautiful story. I loved every minute of this book. Have the tissues ready, I cried tears of joy more than once.
Profile Image for Colleen.
110 reviews
January 27, 2016
Loved it! Great story of torn emotions and love. Would recommend to everyone to read!
Profile Image for Novel Grounds.
1,519 reviews79 followers
October 6, 2014
JenniferSivec
4 Stars|Amazon|Goodreads
Amy's Review:
Sometimes the only thing that can get me out of a book funk is a good love story. This was a good love story.


  Alyssa is 25 and a waitress and just floating in life. Things get interesting when she breaks it off with her long time boyfriend and decides to be a solo lady for a while. Thankfully Alyssa has Nona, her wonderful kind-hearted grandma who raised her most of her life. Questions about her parents have always weighed heavy on her heart and when she starts to question why her mother and sometimes father were not around, she is stone-walled. NO answers from Nona.

  Landon, Alyssa's friend helped her move, has been a shoulder to cry on, and happens to have a crush on her. Trying to deny their feelings for each other and stay friends isn't always the easiest plan. When things start to spiral and Alyssa finds her life heading in a direction  she never thought imaginable, she does the one thing she is good at ... she runs.


   The creativity and captive writing really drew me into this story. I loved the character development and the intensity in their relationships with each other. A follow-up to this story would be amazing, though it did feel like a complete novel. My selfish reader side makes me want more. This was a great easy read, perfect for a Sunday afternoon poolside :)

Synopsis:
Alyssa Bennet had been living life on autopilot, never taking chances or the time to figure out what she wanted in life. A broken family and lonely childhood had failed to show her the true meaning and depth of what love can be.
But all that changes on her 25th birthday.

Alyssa suddenly realizes that it’s up to her to take charge and choose the direction of her life.

Landon Daniels, Alyssa’s best guy friend is always there for her whenever she needs him. But when life takes a drastic turn with an unexpected diagnosis, her relationship and feelings for Landon become too complicated to face. Alyssa is forced to rely heavily on the only two people she’s ever been able to trust, her best friend Anna and her beloved Nona. As they always have, they help Alyssa sort through the mess that has become her life.

At her time of deepest despair, Alyssa finally begins to learn what true love really means. But her old feelings of inadequacy quickly creep back into her life making her doubt she can ever have happiness.

Will Alyssa be strong enough to face her fears and run toward the only man she’s ever loved, or will she destroy her chance completely?
Meet the Author:
I’ve been writing for as long as I can remember; journals, poems, and short stories. I always wanted to write a novel and started several over the years, but for some reason I could never see them through to the end. Until Eva came along.

I was abandoned as a child, at about the age of 2 or 3 which I strangely never gave a lot of thought to. Then I became a mother. When my youngest child was about 2, I watched him sleeping one night as I often did. But this night, I was gripped by this heart-wrenching realization that he was about the age that I was when my parents left me. Something stirred inside of me, and eventually Eva was born. “Leaving Eva” began as a story of a girl who was heartlessly abandoned, and then her story took on a life of its own. It was no longer the story that I began, and it became something else entirely.

I am happy to have finally gotten in touch with my inner Author. She’s always been there lying dormant inside of me, reflecting in other parts of my life. But now she is awake and alive, shining through me every day.

I am very fortunate to have a wonderful supportive husband, two beautiful children, and an incredible family. I have a career that is rewarding and challenging and I get to work with amazing, funny, talented people every day.

Writing has been an escape, a refuge, and an outlet for me. I feel so lucky to get to channel my energy and my creativity through my writing.

I hope that my readers will continue to stay with me through my journey as I grown and evolve. I am so grateful for the support I’ve received and the amazing people that I’ve encountered along the way!
Excerpt:
I knew that I was so screwed, both literally and figuratively, the second we both realized the condom had fallen off.

Not only was I mortified but I was also grossed out. I mean, really grossed out. It wasn’t as though we got to do it all that often, and when we did, this happened.

I really felt the situation I was in was pretty shocking, especially since it was before 8am and I barely had time to shake the sleep off before I realized he was on top of me, which I thought I might like at first. Then realized that it was Tom and sex with him was usually awkward and not fun at all. I didn’t even know why I was here, with him, still. He wasn’t exactly the guys of my dreams, but that’s what happens when you become too comfortable with your life and stop desiring more. The first guy to call you “honey” becomes your boyfriend, whether that was the initial plan or not. The relationship just kind of happens and then you wake up and realize that it’s been half a decade and you are still together.

At least that’s what happened with us.

We were an odd couple, but still by most people’s definition, a couple. He was crabby and grumpy, and I was happy and optimistic, and we didn't really fit together at all. We just existed together for reasons I, nor anyone else could understand but for the time being it worked and nobody really scrutinized it too closely.

I knew the second we realized the condom had fallen off that things just weren’t going to end well. Tom looked at me, his light brown eyes wide, and said, "Oh, shit!" as he backed up from the condom like it was a snake about to bite him in the nuts.

Really? That's all he’s going to say to me about it? Oh, shit!?

Well, Happy freaking 25th birthday to me!

****

I knew I didn't have anyone to blame but myself about staying with Tom, in a passionless, loveless relationship. I was young and maybe even a bit lazy, in and out of college when I could afford it. I was completely lost in my life with no idea how to find myself but then again, it’s not as though I was making much of an effort. I was tired of waiting tables, but I didn't really know how to do anything else. Besides, it was good money and I didn’t have a lot of options.

There was nothing I could do about the mishap at the moment. I went downstairs without even bothering to say anything to Tom. He rolled over and was already snoring away, so I went into the kitchen and made some coffee and poured myself a bowl of cereal. I tried to pet our grey cat, Willow, who had just jumped on the counter to watch the coffee brew but he scurried away from me just out of arm’s length. He stared at me with an air of disdain while he licked his paws. I hated cats. I especially hated this selfish fat cat. He didn't want anything to do with me unless I was feeding him. Brat!

But now, all I could think about was that stupid broken disgusting condom.

My phone buzzed.

"Happy birthday, my lovely. Party tonight. XO Anna" Anna was texting me first thing in the morning, like she usually did.

My Bestie since the first grade, Anna always remembered my birthday, usually before anyone else. I couldn't wait to tell her what happened, but I didn't want to do it in a text conversation. I wanted to tell her in person.

"Wait till I tell you what happened first thing this morning."

I knew she would be shocked when I told her that Tom climbed on me, since he hadn’t done so in months. But she didn't respond which was just as well because I didn’t really want to have a text conversation about it anyway. She was working, trying to be a responsible adult, unlike myself so she didn’t have time for my drama, even if it was my birthday.

It was 9 o’clock AM on my birthday and already, I felt depressed. My birthday usually made me feel depressed, but not this early. It typically hit by noon, but thanks to the morning mishap, it was creeping up on me a lot sooner.

It struck me that I hoped he didn't think the morning’s disaster was my birthday present, which I could completely see! An overwhelming feeling of disdain for Tom his stupid grey cat came over me before I could help myself and I started reflecting about our relationship, as I often did when I wasn’t happy. Tom wasn’t very nice to me. He was typically harsh and condescending, and lacked a filter, no matter where he was or who as around. Whatever he was thinking, just flew out of his mouth. The other morning when he realized I forgot to buy milk he snarled at me, “What that fuck were you thinking Lys? How am I supposed to eat my damn cereal now?”

I cringed when it happened, but I realized that it was a typical scenario. It didn’t seem to matter if it was milk, laundry, what I made for dinner, or what I wore to the bar, Tom just wasn’t pleased about something. Whether it was my birthday or a random Thursday, I often wondered why we were still together, sharing cartons of milk and a life.

And now this condom incident.

My face started to get hot and I realized that I was freaking out over the thought of it. I had always been so careful with my birth control, no matter who the guy was, or how many times I slept with him!

I didn't want to have a baby, ever. A messy, loud, time-sucking expensive baby. I always told everyone that I never wanted to have a baby. Babies were dirty and they spit up and shit everywhere. Every parent I knew was exhausted. They never slept and said their children took up every second of your time. They attempted to sound happy about it. But you could tell from the bags under their eyes and copious amounts of caffeine they needed to function, that it wasn’t as magical as they tried to make it seem. Babies were but, but was it worth the sacrifice of having sagging boobs, getting fat, and having stretched out lady parts? I had to admit that there were a few babies that were adorable, but the majority of them just had big heads, weird hair, and looked like aliens. The thought of that big head pushing itself out of a very sensitive area of the body made me want to vomit. I decided before I ever lost my virginity to Bobby Baughman, that I had no desire to ever have one of those things popping out of my body.
Profile Image for Stephenee.
1,967 reviews49 followers
May 29, 2017
* I received an ebook from the author, but that in no way affects my thoughts, opinion, or review. *

I have read almost all of author Jennifer Sivec's books and she is a must read author! She writes real, honest, intense stories that can automatically find a place in the readers lives. The characters are relatable, they are intense and they are some of which the reader can see themselves becoming friends with. This book is no exception and at times the reader loves the main character, Alyssa, and at times they want to bash her skull in, just like real life friends....

The story is about Alyssa and her quest to figure out where her life went wrong, but not just wrong in real life, but also in her head...and then when the worst news ever hits her, she has to figure out what is really worth it and what is not....the reader roots for Alyssa and at the same time curses her. She takes all of the good in her life and makes it bad just because she doesn't believe in anything good being there for her. The reader literally loves her one minute and wants to murder her the next (at least this reader did), but at the same time the reader cries along with her, laughs with her and yells at the uncertainty of life and all we hold dear.

The story is well written, the plot flows smoothly and seamlessly and the reader can't find any stopping point in which to go about their lives because they are invested in the story, the characters and the outcome. The author weaves a tale that could be anyone of us and she does it with respect, emotion and feeling. You can feel the author's emotions through the pages of the book. She reaches out and grabs ahold of the reader and never once lets them go.

If you haven't read anything by this author, remedy that situation and remedy it soon! She is a must read that will soon climb the charts of your favorite list and take up permanent residency there! Go one-click this one and all of her others, you won't be sorry!


**Review has been done in conjunction with Nerd Girl Official. For more information regarding our reviews please visit our Fansite: www.facebook.com/NerdGirl.ng **
957 reviews
September 8, 2017
I received an Advanced Reader Copy from Reading Deals, and I'm leaving a voluntarily review.

This is a book you will not be able to put down!

It is about twenty-five year old Alyssa “Lys” Bennet whose mother left her when she was a little girl. As she grows older, and starts looking more like her mother, her father is unable to show her any affection anymore. Because of this, Lys has difficulty with relationships.

Her only relationships are with Nona, her grandmother, and her best friend Anna. Lys grew up with Nona and has been friends with Anna since grade school.

Another friend is Landon Daniels. They have a platonic relationship that is casual with very little depth. However, when she breaks up with her boyfriend, Landon slowly reveals his attraction to Lys which causes an alarming change in her relationship with him.

When I read the short summary about this book, the author reveals very little information about this book. And because of that, I was immensely surprised at many of the unexpected events that occur in the story. In fact, they were so unexpected and life-changing that I couldn’t stop crying for most of the book.


Therefore, I, too, will respect the author’s choice and reveal nothing else about this book except that it is in the women’s fiction genre. However, this author does a fantastic job of exploring a woman’s need to accept her past before she can move on to her future.

Profile Image for Becky Wise.
2,913 reviews53 followers
January 17, 2018
I Run To You is an amazing read that will pull at your heartstrings. Have some tissues ready you may just need them. You may just ache for Alyssa. I know i did. Throughout the whole book I just wanted to hold Alyssa tight through everything she went through. When her past comes to light you get why she has a hard time with giving her heart away. But there is no denying that Landon is her perfect match. I love how carrying and patient he is with her. They just seem to click. I Run to You is an emotion read and one that needs to be read because it is beautiful.
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