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The Eva Series #1
Leaving Eva
How can we erase the memories that threaten to scar us?
On the outside, Brynn Michaels appears to have it all. A successful career. A loving husband. A beautiful home. But nobody, not even her husband, knows the depth of Brynn’s horror. Abandoned as a child on the side of the road by her young, drug-addicted mother, then later abused by her adoptive father, Brynn has spent her entire life hiding her physical and emotional scars. As Brynn struggles to overcome her past so that she and Adam can begin a family of their own, the darkness refuses to let her go.
The peace that Brynn has tried so desperately to cultivate seems just out of reach and even the love of Adam may not be enough to weather the storm.
Leaving Eva is the tragic and suspenseful story of one woman’s battle to overcome abandonment and abuse. In this powerful novel, author Jennifer Sivec explores the human resolve and our ability to not only survive, but thrive.
Publisher’s note: This story is intended for mature audiences. It contains scenes depicting graphic violence and strong language.
On the outside, Brynn Michaels appears to have it all. A successful career. A loving husband. A beautiful home. But nobody, not even her husband, knows the depth of Brynn’s horror. Abandoned as a child on the side of the road by her young, drug-addicted mother, then later abused by her adoptive father, Brynn has spent her entire life hiding her physical and emotional scars. As Brynn struggles to overcome her past so that she and Adam can begin a family of their own, the darkness refuses to let her go.
The peace that Brynn has tried so desperately to cultivate seems just out of reach and even the love of Adam may not be enough to weather the storm.
Leaving Eva is the tragic and suspenseful story of one woman’s battle to overcome abandonment and abuse. In this powerful novel, author Jennifer Sivec explores the human resolve and our ability to not only survive, but thrive.
Publisher’s note: This story is intended for mature audiences. It contains scenes depicting graphic violence and strong language.
233 pages, Kindle Edition
First published April 8, 2013
About the author
Jennifer Sivec
18 books352 followersJennifer 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.
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 105 reviews
September 30, 2016
I was looking forward to Leaving Eva and am not one to be overly disturbed by themes of child abuse, possibly as my own life circumstances and childhood have given me a thicker skin than most but I can understand why this book might upset others.
The book is narrated at the start in a child's voice (Eva's), similar to the style of Room
however it's not done as well, and has a lot of rough edges to it. I think the word "mommy" was excessively used very early on the book, perhaps a touch of overdose. Eva's life is not good, her daddy drinks and when not hitting her mommy and smashing her around he turns his temper and fists to young Eva. Mommy bothered me by letting Eva know that they could not leave daddy even though he is violent because they "need him" - basically to be looked after. I personally had an issue with that early on.
The book seems to switch narration from first person to third throughout and is written with some timeline jumping. It's not a bad book but really didn't wow me in anyway. I read a fantastic book called Mazie Baby
by Julie Frayn and it covered similar subject matter but I found it so much more realistic and believable. There was just something about Leaving Eva that had me not quite connecting with the characters and therefore fully engaging with my heart.
Eva has awful abandonment issues and not surprising so relationships will no doubt be frayed with difficulties based on very real insecurities, this is explored later in the book as Adam enters Eva's world, the way Eva sees herself and how Adam sees her is chalk and cheese.
Many have really enjoyed this book so perhaps it's just one of those that just did not float my boat. After all books and reviews are very much a personal perspective. I will leave this one in your capable hands dear reader to decide if it's one for you or not. I personally am not enticed to read on any further into this series. Three stars from me as an okay read.
Many thanks to Booktrope for an ARC of this book to read in exchange for an honest review.
For more of my book reviews, plenty of awesome books to win, and author Q&A events come to: https://www.facebook.com/BookloverCat...
To follow me on Twitter: https://www.twitter.com/promotethatbook
The book is narrated at the start in a child's voice (Eva's), similar to the style of Room
however it's not done as well, and has a lot of rough edges to it. I think the word "mommy" was excessively used very early on the book, perhaps a touch of overdose. Eva's life is not good, her daddy drinks and when not hitting her mommy and smashing her around he turns his temper and fists to young Eva. Mommy bothered me by letting Eva know that they could not leave daddy even though he is violent because they "need him" - basically to be looked after. I personally had an issue with that early on.The book seems to switch narration from first person to third throughout and is written with some timeline jumping. It's not a bad book but really didn't wow me in anyway. I read a fantastic book called Mazie Baby
by Julie Frayn and it covered similar subject matter but I found it so much more realistic and believable. There was just something about Leaving Eva that had me not quite connecting with the characters and therefore fully engaging with my heart. Eva has awful abandonment issues and not surprising so relationships will no doubt be frayed with difficulties based on very real insecurities, this is explored later in the book as Adam enters Eva's world, the way Eva sees herself and how Adam sees her is chalk and cheese.
Many have really enjoyed this book so perhaps it's just one of those that just did not float my boat. After all books and reviews are very much a personal perspective. I will leave this one in your capable hands dear reader to decide if it's one for you or not. I personally am not enticed to read on any further into this series. Three stars from me as an okay read.
Many thanks to Booktrope for an ARC of this book to read in exchange for an honest review.
For more of my book reviews, plenty of awesome books to win, and author Q&A events come to: https://www.facebook.com/BookloverCat...
To follow me on Twitter: https://www.twitter.com/promotethatbook
June 22, 2015
Oh my goodness! If you want to read a powerful and compelling women's fiction novel that will take you on an emotional roller coaster ride, then Leaving Eva is that novel!
In Leaving Eva, author Jennifer Sivec weaves a haunting dark tale that engages the reader to follow the tragic life story of Eva/Brynn Michael. This heart wrenching story follows Eva/Brynn's life through her childhood and adult years dealing with abandonment, adoption, and living a life wrought with emotional and physical abuse. To ease her pain, she resorts to self-mutilation, until she finds comfort and love with Adam, her childhood sweetheart. Brynn and Adam marry, and while dealing with the struggles of normal adult relationships and issues, Brynn is forced to face the demons of her traumatic past, and come to terms with herself in order to get over her inability to trust and love.
Leaving Eva is not an easy story to read, it is the kind of dark story that draws the reader in and takes them on an roller coaster ride where they will experience the gamut of emotions as Eva/Brynn's life story unfolds.
The author weaves a well written and compelling story that intertwines the issues of abandonment, adoption, addiction, alcoholism, emotional and physical abuse (domestic and child abuse), self-mutilation (self abuse), friendship, dysfunctional family dynamic, overcoming past demons, forgiveness, and survival.
Leaving Eva is a multi-layered story that tugs at the heart strings and stirs the soul as it explores the depths of the human spirit. It is a riveting story that will easily captivate the reader's attention and make them become emotionally invested. It is a deeply moving story that will make you will hold your breath at the traumas and dark secrets that Eva/Brynn endures in her life, and with the cliffhanger ending, it will leave you wanting more!
Leaving Eva is the first book in The Eva Series.
Disclaimer: I received a copy of the book from the author / publisher in exchange for my honest review and participation in a virtual book tour event hosted by Chick Lit Plus Blog Tours.
http://jerseygirlbookreviews.blogspot...
In Leaving Eva, author Jennifer Sivec weaves a haunting dark tale that engages the reader to follow the tragic life story of Eva/Brynn Michael. This heart wrenching story follows Eva/Brynn's life through her childhood and adult years dealing with abandonment, adoption, and living a life wrought with emotional and physical abuse. To ease her pain, she resorts to self-mutilation, until she finds comfort and love with Adam, her childhood sweetheart. Brynn and Adam marry, and while dealing with the struggles of normal adult relationships and issues, Brynn is forced to face the demons of her traumatic past, and come to terms with herself in order to get over her inability to trust and love.
Leaving Eva is not an easy story to read, it is the kind of dark story that draws the reader in and takes them on an roller coaster ride where they will experience the gamut of emotions as Eva/Brynn's life story unfolds.
The author weaves a well written and compelling story that intertwines the issues of abandonment, adoption, addiction, alcoholism, emotional and physical abuse (domestic and child abuse), self-mutilation (self abuse), friendship, dysfunctional family dynamic, overcoming past demons, forgiveness, and survival.
Leaving Eva is a multi-layered story that tugs at the heart strings and stirs the soul as it explores the depths of the human spirit. It is a riveting story that will easily captivate the reader's attention and make them become emotionally invested. It is a deeply moving story that will make you will hold your breath at the traumas and dark secrets that Eva/Brynn endures in her life, and with the cliffhanger ending, it will leave you wanting more!
Leaving Eva is the first book in The Eva Series.
Disclaimer: I received a copy of the book from the author / publisher in exchange for my honest review and participation in a virtual book tour event hosted by Chick Lit Plus Blog Tours.
http://jerseygirlbookreviews.blogspot...
February 10, 2016
I feel like this book should come with a big "Trigger Warning" sticker on it. Sivec pulls no punches (excuse the pun....) in her depictions of abuse, alcoholism, self-harm, and more. And, I must say, that's why I liked Leaving Eva so much. Nothing was watered down, but at the same time, nothing felt over-the-top and into the realm of exploitation. It just felt very real. I think fans of books such as Bastard Out of Carolina will really enjoy this one. I'm really looking forward to reading the sequel.
**I received this copy via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review**
**I received this copy via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review**
May 27, 2015
* I received an ebook in exchange for an honest review. *
This book was my first book by author Jennifer Sivec but it will not be my last! She has touched on some very hard, yet very real topics and she wrote about them in a real and respectful way. I felt every emotion that Brynn/Eva went through - It was real and emotional and I felt like I was in the story witnessing the events unfold.
The author had a tight knit plot that flowed quickly and it was on a twisting, turning, curving road that left the reader needing more while at the same time dreading the end of the story coming too quickly. The reader was able to feel the events as if they happened to them and in a way that made the events feel so completely real. Adam and Brynn were such well developed characters and they were so well suited for each other. Brynn needed the type of love that Adam offered and Adam needed Brynn like he needed air to breathe. Then it all started to unravel.....and the reader laughed, cried and yelled right along with the characters.
There were a few problems with the book, but the plot, characters and situations made up for the spelling and punctuation errors that the reader found throughout the book. The overall vibe of the story will more than make up for these and the reader will just bypass them when they come along. This story is a must read for anyone who enjoys a true romance that withstands all of the tests that are thrown at them. It will make you laugh, cry, gasp, and leave you with your mouth hanging open wanting more. Make sure you add this book to your TBR list and make sure you have a new unopened box of tissues next to you once you start it. You will need them!
***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 ***
This book was my first book by author Jennifer Sivec but it will not be my last! She has touched on some very hard, yet very real topics and she wrote about them in a real and respectful way. I felt every emotion that Brynn/Eva went through - It was real and emotional and I felt like I was in the story witnessing the events unfold.
The author had a tight knit plot that flowed quickly and it was on a twisting, turning, curving road that left the reader needing more while at the same time dreading the end of the story coming too quickly. The reader was able to feel the events as if they happened to them and in a way that made the events feel so completely real. Adam and Brynn were such well developed characters and they were so well suited for each other. Brynn needed the type of love that Adam offered and Adam needed Brynn like he needed air to breathe. Then it all started to unravel.....and the reader laughed, cried and yelled right along with the characters.
There were a few problems with the book, but the plot, characters and situations made up for the spelling and punctuation errors that the reader found throughout the book. The overall vibe of the story will more than make up for these and the reader will just bypass them when they come along. This story is a must read for anyone who enjoys a true romance that withstands all of the tests that are thrown at them. It will make you laugh, cry, gasp, and leave you with your mouth hanging open wanting more. Make sure you add this book to your TBR list and make sure you have a new unopened box of tissues next to you once you start it. You will need them!
***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 ***
March 3, 2016
Booktrope and NetGalley provided me with an electronic copy of Leaving Eva, in exchange for an honest review.
Life has not been easy for little Eva Elizabeth. She was born to a teenage runaway, Ellie Harper, and her dangerous drug dealing boyfriend. Eva had a few short years of happiness living with her grandparents and her mother, but was abandoned on the side of the road by her ruthless father. Renamed Brynn in foster care, she was taken in by Rose and Thomas, but there the suffering continued. With so much turmoil in her life, Brynn decides that she has to find a way to get past her horrific beginnings or risk losing the small measure of good in her life.
Leaving Eva has an emotionally charged and interesting premise which, unfortunately, did not materialize into a successful book. In an attempt to convey all of the horrors that made up young Eva/Brynn's life, the story ends up coming off flat. Dealing with tough issues such as drug use, abuse, and violence, this dark novel should have sparked strong emotions in its readers. The writing style provided the biggest obstacle for me, as some awkward phrasing and choppy writing left me unable to connect with the characters or the plot. For these reasons, leaving Eva was a miss for me and one that I cannot recommend.
Life has not been easy for little Eva Elizabeth. She was born to a teenage runaway, Ellie Harper, and her dangerous drug dealing boyfriend. Eva had a few short years of happiness living with her grandparents and her mother, but was abandoned on the side of the road by her ruthless father. Renamed Brynn in foster care, she was taken in by Rose and Thomas, but there the suffering continued. With so much turmoil in her life, Brynn decides that she has to find a way to get past her horrific beginnings or risk losing the small measure of good in her life.
Leaving Eva has an emotionally charged and interesting premise which, unfortunately, did not materialize into a successful book. In an attempt to convey all of the horrors that made up young Eva/Brynn's life, the story ends up coming off flat. Dealing with tough issues such as drug use, abuse, and violence, this dark novel should have sparked strong emotions in its readers. The writing style provided the biggest obstacle for me, as some awkward phrasing and choppy writing left me unable to connect with the characters or the plot. For these reasons, leaving Eva was a miss for me and one that I cannot recommend.
July 11, 2015
This review is from: Leaving Eva (The Eva Series Book 1) (Kindle Edition)
As I go back in my mind, I realize that I have never read a book quite like this one. The style of the book is very different. I believe it's partially told from a narrator's view. Other times, from the character's POV. At times, I really had a hard time following all of the characters. There are multiple characters in this book and each one had a story about them, even if a small one. The hardest thing for me to follow was the back and forth time changes. I found myself rereading several parts thinking I missed something, not realizing it was a different time frame than the previous chapter or even a few paragraphs before.
The story itself was really good. This is a dark, sad book, sad throughout the entire book. Very emotional. The book ended with a major cliffhanger. I would like to know what happens next but only if the story is told in a continuous fashion instead of back and forth time frames & through multiple characters.
I received this book in exchange for an honest review. 3.5 stars.
As I go back in my mind, I realize that I have never read a book quite like this one. The style of the book is very different. I believe it's partially told from a narrator's view. Other times, from the character's POV. At times, I really had a hard time following all of the characters. There are multiple characters in this book and each one had a story about them, even if a small one. The hardest thing for me to follow was the back and forth time changes. I found myself rereading several parts thinking I missed something, not realizing it was a different time frame than the previous chapter or even a few paragraphs before.
The story itself was really good. This is a dark, sad book, sad throughout the entire book. Very emotional. The book ended with a major cliffhanger. I would like to know what happens next but only if the story is told in a continuous fashion instead of back and forth time frames & through multiple characters.
I received this book in exchange for an honest review. 3.5 stars.
October 12, 2013
I started this book & was so upset by it that I had to stop.
Then a couple of days later I started it again, with new eyes. I sat up till 3.30am & read as much as I could in one sitting.
This was an extremely emotional book from start to finish.
It jumped backwards & forwards a lot, but didn’t detract from the story.
I found myself absolutely sobbing my heart more than once.
A very beautifully written story about a very ugly topic, and how eventually things can start to mend.
Goodness knows what is in store for Brynn next.
Then a couple of days later I started it again, with new eyes. I sat up till 3.30am & read as much as I could in one sitting.
This was an extremely emotional book from start to finish.
It jumped backwards & forwards a lot, but didn’t detract from the story.
I found myself absolutely sobbing my heart more than once.
A very beautifully written story about a very ugly topic, and how eventually things can start to mend.
Goodness knows what is in store for Brynn next.
February 1, 2017
This was a very emotional read. Eva/Brynn is a very strong person to have gone through so much and became a strong dependent person. Unfortunately, this story is all to true of what some children experience with biological parents and foster/adoptive parents. It is heartbreaking. I very heartfelt read.
April 7, 2015
About a year ago I came across the book Losing Eva. It was one of those books that you just know you will never forget. At that moment Jennifer Sivec became THE author for me. I have never met her, I really have never talked to her, but as soon as her name is mentioned, still to this day, I have memories of Eva and how Jennifer is still one of the few authors who can draw out every emotion a human can have with her books. I immediately knew I had to read Leaving Eva so I bought my copy and it took me four days to get through it. I would read till I was sobbing so hard, my heart felt like it was breaking into a million pieces and I just barely was able to function as a mother because I was constantly hugging my daughters and telling them how much they were wanted and loved.
I was so emotionally wrecked I couldn’t write a review a year ago for this book, it was too haunting, words would never live up to what I felt for this book and Eva. When I had the chance to read and review it this time, I was still a wreck, but I can now write the review. This story never left my mind over the year, it still wraps itself around my heart and I even volunteered to be a voice for kids in the court system because of this story. This series has the power to change lives and open the eyes of those willing to hear the horrific events. I know it changed my life.
She did a fabulous job in the synopsis of telling you what to expect on the pages. There are no words to describe what an open heart will feel when you read Eva’s story. Growing up knowing she wasn’t wanted except by the one woman who can’t protect her was devastating. She was abused, she was mistreated, lied to, battered, let down and she was used. No child asks for this when they are born, but she was the perfect example of an unwanted child with no one to care for her.
She learned at an early age that sharing her secrets made her vulnerable, that trust was not to be given lightly to others. She also learned her value wasn’t worth much compared to others agendas and needs. Every time happiness or dreams knocked on her door, life would lock it before she was able to find her escape. Her true worth was not seen, because no one looked for it. She grew up believing her value to others was disposable at any time in life.
Eva became a hero to me, her will to survive; to still care for others was beyond remarkable. She was never taught compassion, yet she had it. She was never given a chance to show her talents, yet she developed them. She really did raise herself and she was beautiful. I would love to tell you that this is an easy read, but it isn’t. It IS a book everyone should read, discuss, learn from and find a way to help the Eva’s in the world. Jennifer not only became one of my favorite authors, she became a hero to me. Her words inspired me to risk my heart and sit in the court rooms and speak on behalf of kids like Eva. Don’t be so afraid you close your eyes to stories like this, learn from them, embrace them and do as I did………hug your kids a bit tighter and tell them they are precious and valuable. Nothing can replace any child put on this Earth.
I was so emotionally wrecked I couldn’t write a review a year ago for this book, it was too haunting, words would never live up to what I felt for this book and Eva. When I had the chance to read and review it this time, I was still a wreck, but I can now write the review. This story never left my mind over the year, it still wraps itself around my heart and I even volunteered to be a voice for kids in the court system because of this story. This series has the power to change lives and open the eyes of those willing to hear the horrific events. I know it changed my life.
She did a fabulous job in the synopsis of telling you what to expect on the pages. There are no words to describe what an open heart will feel when you read Eva’s story. Growing up knowing she wasn’t wanted except by the one woman who can’t protect her was devastating. She was abused, she was mistreated, lied to, battered, let down and she was used. No child asks for this when they are born, but she was the perfect example of an unwanted child with no one to care for her.
She learned at an early age that sharing her secrets made her vulnerable, that trust was not to be given lightly to others. She also learned her value wasn’t worth much compared to others agendas and needs. Every time happiness or dreams knocked on her door, life would lock it before she was able to find her escape. Her true worth was not seen, because no one looked for it. She grew up believing her value to others was disposable at any time in life.
Eva became a hero to me, her will to survive; to still care for others was beyond remarkable. She was never taught compassion, yet she had it. She was never given a chance to show her talents, yet she developed them. She really did raise herself and she was beautiful. I would love to tell you that this is an easy read, but it isn’t. It IS a book everyone should read, discuss, learn from and find a way to help the Eva’s in the world. Jennifer not only became one of my favorite authors, she became a hero to me. Her words inspired me to risk my heart and sit in the court rooms and speak on behalf of kids like Eva. Don’t be so afraid you close your eyes to stories like this, learn from them, embrace them and do as I did………hug your kids a bit tighter and tell them they are precious and valuable. Nothing can replace any child put on this Earth.
September 26, 2016
***** 5 Cranky Stars *****
Warning.... Tissues needed for this book.
Jennifer Sivec shattered my heart with this book and it's still in pieces. By the middle of the book, I had to send her a message to see if she has a support group in place for her readers. If I can offer any advice: Read This Book.
Brynn has had a rough life. I'm not sure how anyone can survive what she's been through but that seems to be all she's doing... Surviving.
Her Momma Rose is more the child and Brynn had to grow up way to fast while missing out on all the important life lessons that a parent should teach their child.
Though Brynn has been put through the ringer multiple times, she manages to finish school and college to boot. Book smarts are easy for her, it's personal relationships and her feelings that she struggles with.
Adam fell head over heals in love with Brynn at first sight. He knows that she's different and he lives to make her smile. He was raised in a loving family and wants nothing more than to share that happiness with his Brynn.
This is truly their story. A story of love, pain and loss.
It's hard to put into words how this book made me feel. I went through the gamut of emotions and at times found myself cringing and shaking. I can honestly say that this is the first book to evoke such intense emotions from me. I started reading it this morning and didn't stop until the last page.
I highly recommend this book and plan on stalking this author regularly.
March 23, 2017
***** April's 5 Star Review ***** 5 Dreams and Screams
There is a secret pain lurking within all of us, waiting to consume us if we allow it.
On the outside, Brynn Michael seems to be living the perfect life. She’s a successful businesswoman married to a handsome and devoted husband. But nobody, not even her husband and childhood sweetheart, Adam, knows the true depth of Brynn’s horror. Abandoned on the side of the road by her young drug addicted mother, then abused by her adoptive father, teenage Brynn turns to the only solace she can find in the sharp end of a razor. She spends her lifetime hiding the scars, both physical and emotional, until she has no choice but to face what she has been running from her entire life.
Brynn must figure out a way to confront her past or risk losing Adam, the only true love she’s ever known, forever. But in spite of it all, Brynn may not have the ultimate choice, as the past eventually seeks her out.
Leaving Eva is the heartrending story of one woman’s battle to overcome her tragic childhood and the abandonment and abuse that haunt her. Caution: Eva’s story it contains graphic violence, strong language, drug abuse, domestic abuse, and child abuse.
In this dramatically dark novel, Jennifer Sivec, author of women’s fiction, delves into the selfishness and depravity of human nature, and begs you to question whether happiness can ever truly be attained once you have been deeply scarred.
Leaving Eva is not an easy story to read, it is the kind of dark story that draws the reader in and takes them on an roller coaster ride where they will experience the gamut of emotions as Eva/Brynn's life story unfolds. What an emotion read. I can’t put into words how I felt for Bryann. Growing up and going through what she did no woman or child should have to go through that. Leaving Eva tugs at the heart strings and stirs the soul as it explores the depths of the human spirit. It is a riveting story that will easily captivate the reader's attention and make them become emotionally invested. Leaving Eva is a moving story that will make you hold your breath with what Eva/Brynn endures in her life and yes there is a cliffhanger. Which will make you want to read more.
There is a secret pain lurking within all of us, waiting to consume us if we allow it.
On the outside, Brynn Michael seems to be living the perfect life. She’s a successful businesswoman married to a handsome and devoted husband. But nobody, not even her husband and childhood sweetheart, Adam, knows the true depth of Brynn’s horror. Abandoned on the side of the road by her young drug addicted mother, then abused by her adoptive father, teenage Brynn turns to the only solace she can find in the sharp end of a razor. She spends her lifetime hiding the scars, both physical and emotional, until she has no choice but to face what she has been running from her entire life.
Brynn must figure out a way to confront her past or risk losing Adam, the only true love she’s ever known, forever. But in spite of it all, Brynn may not have the ultimate choice, as the past eventually seeks her out.
Leaving Eva is the heartrending story of one woman’s battle to overcome her tragic childhood and the abandonment and abuse that haunt her. Caution: Eva’s story it contains graphic violence, strong language, drug abuse, domestic abuse, and child abuse.
In this dramatically dark novel, Jennifer Sivec, author of women’s fiction, delves into the selfishness and depravity of human nature, and begs you to question whether happiness can ever truly be attained once you have been deeply scarred.
Leaving Eva is not an easy story to read, it is the kind of dark story that draws the reader in and takes them on an roller coaster ride where they will experience the gamut of emotions as Eva/Brynn's life story unfolds. What an emotion read. I can’t put into words how I felt for Bryann. Growing up and going through what she did no woman or child should have to go through that. Leaving Eva tugs at the heart strings and stirs the soul as it explores the depths of the human spirit. It is a riveting story that will easily captivate the reader's attention and make them become emotionally invested. Leaving Eva is a moving story that will make you hold your breath with what Eva/Brynn endures in her life and yes there is a cliffhanger. Which will make you want to read more.
March 30, 2015
This book is kinda confusing. It jumps from person to person. You don't really know how they all tie together until you have learned about each person. At that point you have to look back in the book to remember what you learned about each person. Don't get me wrong this is a really good book, it's just kinda hard to follow sometimes. When you get to the end it all makes sense and it turns out to be a very great book.
Let me tell you a little about the book. It's about a girl that is abandoned when she was young. She is adopted when she's about 5 years old. It turns out that her adoptive dad is a heavy drinker and gets abusive when he's drunk. Her name when she was born is Eva but her adoptive mother changes it to Brynn. Brynn goes through a lot in her life. She marries her high school sweetheart. When they start having problems Brynn/Eva is forced to face her past.
It is a really wonderful book. It took me a while to read but once I got about halfway through or so I couldn't put it down. I needed to know what happened to Brynn/Eva. It really didn't help that it ended on a major cliffhanger. As soon as I was done I went to see if there was a second book. I was so glad to see that there was and I immediately bought it. It is a dark book, it deals with drugs, drinking and abuse but it does it in such a way I don't think I would mind if my 13 year old daughter read it. It's a great book everyone should read it.
Let me tell you a little about the book. It's about a girl that is abandoned when she was young. She is adopted when she's about 5 years old. It turns out that her adoptive dad is a heavy drinker and gets abusive when he's drunk. Her name when she was born is Eva but her adoptive mother changes it to Brynn. Brynn goes through a lot in her life. She marries her high school sweetheart. When they start having problems Brynn/Eva is forced to face her past.
It is a really wonderful book. It took me a while to read but once I got about halfway through or so I couldn't put it down. I needed to know what happened to Brynn/Eva. It really didn't help that it ended on a major cliffhanger. As soon as I was done I went to see if there was a second book. I was so glad to see that there was and I immediately bought it. It is a dark book, it deals with drugs, drinking and abuse but it does it in such a way I don't think I would mind if my 13 year old daughter read it. It's a great book everyone should read it.
June 1, 2015
Ebook given from the Author for exchange of a honest review.
The story of Eva later known as Brynn is a emotional read. It takes you on a journey of a young girl to adult hood that has been through an extremely hard life. It touches on some very hard subjects abandonment, drugs, alcohol, abuse. To read this girls journey is amazing but not only hers but you read everyone in her life's POV and at times I got confused but later in the story understood why I was reading their side of the story.
Despite her upbringing she finds love and it is a pure unconditional love but being broken doesn't make that easy to accept. So you see her journey of self discovery also.
This story is a must read I was a little reluctant at first but there is no doubt in my mind I will be reading Jennifer Sivec work from now on she has a way with words brings them to life and it's truly inspiring.
Thank you for allowing me to read your masterpiece.
**This review was requested through Book Pimpers Reviewers~Susan**
https://www.facebook.com/bookpimpers....
The story of Eva later known as Brynn is a emotional read. It takes you on a journey of a young girl to adult hood that has been through an extremely hard life. It touches on some very hard subjects abandonment, drugs, alcohol, abuse. To read this girls journey is amazing but not only hers but you read everyone in her life's POV and at times I got confused but later in the story understood why I was reading their side of the story.
Despite her upbringing she finds love and it is a pure unconditional love but being broken doesn't make that easy to accept. So you see her journey of self discovery also.
This story is a must read I was a little reluctant at first but there is no doubt in my mind I will be reading Jennifer Sivec work from now on she has a way with words brings them to life and it's truly inspiring.
Thank you for allowing me to read your masterpiece.
**This review was requested through Book Pimpers Reviewers~Susan**
https://www.facebook.com/bookpimpers....
October 12, 2013
I started this book & was so upset by it that I had to stop.
Then a couple of days later I started it again, with new eyes. I sat up till 3.30am & read as much as I could in one sitting.
This was an extremely emotional book from start to finish.
It jumped backwards & forwards a lot, but didn’t detract from the story.
I found myself absolutely sobbing my heart out more than once.
A very beautifully written story about a very ugly topic, and how eventually things can start to mend.
Goodness knows what is in store for Brynn next.
Then a couple of days later I started it again, with new eyes. I sat up till 3.30am & read as much as I could in one sitting.
This was an extremely emotional book from start to finish.
It jumped backwards & forwards a lot, but didn’t detract from the story.
I found myself absolutely sobbing my heart out more than once.
A very beautifully written story about a very ugly topic, and how eventually things can start to mend.
Goodness knows what is in store for Brynn next.
November 12, 2015
Usually I write a review straight after reading the book. However this review has been a struggle. Don't get me wrong- this is a brilliant well written emotional read that tore me apart. I'm just hesitant to review as I don't want to spoil anything. So all I'm going to say is if your like me and your a sucker for an emotional read then I recommend this story.
Be warned this book touches on drug abuse and child abuse.
There is a cliffhanger but don't worry book two is already out.
Be warned this book touches on drug abuse and child abuse.
There is a cliffhanger but don't worry book two is already out.
June 27, 2018
I’m unsure how to rate this book. It’s writing was disjointed and child like for most of the story and yet I wanted to keep reading it. I had to know what happened. The story is awful and yet somehow I want her to have a happy ever after. I'm not sure if I can recommend this one or not. But if you do read it be sure to have the next book in the series ready to go.
January 8, 2015
This book was a hell of a roller coaster ride!!! It took me a bit to get into it because it was a different writing style then what I normally read but once I got into it, it was hard to put down. The author did a great job with the heavy subject matter. I will be getting the second book!
April 24, 2017
What a great book! I have never read this author before but will read her again. This book is so full of all different emotions that make you feel and make you cry even if you don't want to. It was a great job and I will be buying the 2nd book in the series for sure. Thank you!
October 22, 2016
Leaving Eva
Jennifer Sivec
4.5 stars
Im not even sure how to start this review but Im going to try my best … Tracy met this wonderful author at a book signing not to long ago. Jennifer then sent us Leaving Eva – not knowing what I was about to read I was completely overtaken with grief and torment within the first few pages. I thought to myself what in the heck have I gotten myself in to. When an author can create characters and situations that in turn make you emit so many emotions you are holding your breath that’s a wonderful thing.
Eva .. or Brynn lives in pain and fear. Fear of losing loved ones, pain of being hurt, pain of being left and pain in the scars she hides from everyone. Eva Is living nothing short of a tragic life. I kept thinking to myself .. no more. Please no more. How much can one person take and yet the unimaginable just kept coming.
This book is layers upon layers of events that weave into one another. At times you feel like you are reading numerous characters stories but they are all Eva’s. Glimpses of who Brynn really is flicker in her dreams but there is nothing and no one to help with those memories. Every time you think Eva is about to break free from the vines of darkness they grow stronger against her. I kept thinking to myself please let this end for her. … please give this character the happiness that she deserves … please let her find her way.
What I can tell you is that you need to keep reading … what I can also tell you is you do get that happiness but then …… I laid my kindle down and whispered .. “what the frick” … I could not believe it…. So now I need to know when is book 2 out.
Thank you .. I think .. Jennifer for the ARC as you have completely taxed every nerve and possible emotion in my body. There are some characters in this release that are mentioned in a very small sense that I do believe will play a major role in the next release the way things were left. I have a feeling its going to be like a freight train derailing and hitting the side of a mountain. Help us all …
Thank you Jennifer for the read. You destroyed me … and that’s a wonderful thing. Review to post to Ramblings From Beneath The Sheets.
If you have any kind of triggers centered around abuse .. do not click this book up.
Jennifer Sivec
4.5 stars
Im not even sure how to start this review but Im going to try my best … Tracy met this wonderful author at a book signing not to long ago. Jennifer then sent us Leaving Eva – not knowing what I was about to read I was completely overtaken with grief and torment within the first few pages. I thought to myself what in the heck have I gotten myself in to. When an author can create characters and situations that in turn make you emit so many emotions you are holding your breath that’s a wonderful thing.
Eva .. or Brynn lives in pain and fear. Fear of losing loved ones, pain of being hurt, pain of being left and pain in the scars she hides from everyone. Eva Is living nothing short of a tragic life. I kept thinking to myself .. no more. Please no more. How much can one person take and yet the unimaginable just kept coming.
This book is layers upon layers of events that weave into one another. At times you feel like you are reading numerous characters stories but they are all Eva’s. Glimpses of who Brynn really is flicker in her dreams but there is nothing and no one to help with those memories. Every time you think Eva is about to break free from the vines of darkness they grow stronger against her. I kept thinking to myself please let this end for her. … please give this character the happiness that she deserves … please let her find her way.
What I can tell you is that you need to keep reading … what I can also tell you is you do get that happiness but then …… I laid my kindle down and whispered .. “what the frick” … I could not believe it…. So now I need to know when is book 2 out.
Thank you .. I think .. Jennifer for the ARC as you have completely taxed every nerve and possible emotion in my body. There are some characters in this release that are mentioned in a very small sense that I do believe will play a major role in the next release the way things were left. I have a feeling its going to be like a freight train derailing and hitting the side of a mountain. Help us all …
Thank you Jennifer for the read. You destroyed me … and that’s a wonderful thing. Review to post to Ramblings From Beneath The Sheets.
If you have any kind of triggers centered around abuse .. do not click this book up.
April 4, 2016
So this was my weekend read and to me this was one of my powerful reads for the year already. I am sure I will read more powerful reads but this one was the start of one.
I had so many emotions with this book and when I got to the very end I literally slammed the book down and yelled ARE YOU KIDDING ME!!! It wasn't bad far from it I just couldn't believe it ended THERE.
Now if you are not good with reading about child abuse then this book will not be for you it is dark. The first chapter starts off mind blowing and I literally had to stop for a second to take a breath. We meet Brynn right off the bat and not in a good way her father abuses her but what she came from before was no better.
She has grown up with abuse and that has lead to her self-cutting herself, so when she meets the love of her life at fifteen I hoped for happiness for her she needs it. Though we see how she handles her present life and you can tell she is still guarded even though Adam loves her no matter what.
Brynn deals with a lot as an adult and her husband doesn't make it better when he leaves her, her whole world falls apart and on top of that she has to take care of mother Rose who is deteriorating. Will Brynn even be able to let go of the past and move on with her life? Or will it always hold her down?
This story is not easy to read and I found myself holding my breath and then letting it go as I kept hoping her story would have a happy ending. When the little twist of what happened to her adoptive father Thomas came about I was like how did I not know that? Why didn't it click.
I will be buying this next book as soon as I can because where it left off I need to know what else will Brynn endure in her life, can the past be left in the past so she can move forward?
The plot was a steady pace and kept me wanting to find out more, the characters were well developed to me and I could feel what the main character was going through.
I had so many emotions with this book and when I got to the very end I literally slammed the book down and yelled ARE YOU KIDDING ME!!! It wasn't bad far from it I just couldn't believe it ended THERE.
Now if you are not good with reading about child abuse then this book will not be for you it is dark. The first chapter starts off mind blowing and I literally had to stop for a second to take a breath. We meet Brynn right off the bat and not in a good way her father abuses her but what she came from before was no better.
She has grown up with abuse and that has lead to her self-cutting herself, so when she meets the love of her life at fifteen I hoped for happiness for her she needs it. Though we see how she handles her present life and you can tell she is still guarded even though Adam loves her no matter what.
Brynn deals with a lot as an adult and her husband doesn't make it better when he leaves her, her whole world falls apart and on top of that she has to take care of mother Rose who is deteriorating. Will Brynn even be able to let go of the past and move on with her life? Or will it always hold her down?
This story is not easy to read and I found myself holding my breath and then letting it go as I kept hoping her story would have a happy ending. When the little twist of what happened to her adoptive father Thomas came about I was like how did I not know that? Why didn't it click.
I will be buying this next book as soon as I can because where it left off I need to know what else will Brynn endure in her life, can the past be left in the past so she can move forward?
The plot was a steady pace and kept me wanting to find out more, the characters were well developed to me and I could feel what the main character was going through.
June 10, 2013
This book has taken me a little while to write a review for. It was one of those books that after you finish, (Or in my case a few times during) you have to take a break to process what is happening. It took a little for me to get into if I am being honest. It touches on some Very tough topics but I was hooked and pushed through to the end. I am SO glad of that fact, as this book turned out to be as great as I had expected.
This book follows the life of Brynne. It is a tale of abuse, drugs, child neglect, and abandonment. She has endured a hard life, one no child should Ever endure. I felt that this book gave a great window into a story that so many children out there possibly share. Its horrifying and heart wrenching all the same. For this reason I was attached. I Needed to see what happened with Brynne. I was fighting for her to get out and away from her life. She is such a strong and wonderful girl, she deserves the world to be at her finger tips. Such is though, she is left with a hard life that she fights to survive.
In the book we flash POV and Timeline between Brynne, her mother, and Her adoptive mother. It can be slightly disorienting, but it gives you such a better understanding of the story as whole, its worth it to push through when you get thrown off. I felt like the book developed as it went on. It may have been my understanding of the way the author wrote, or that I was that enveloped in the book, but it got much easier to follow and read. I learned what characters were talking rather quickly.
The end of this book totally killed me. WHAT a cliffhanger! I could not get enough of the book and than Jennifer goes and throws an ending like THAT at me! What is a girl to do? Well, this one is sitting patiently and waiting for book 2 :) So get reading. Give the book a chance, it deserves it. Its really that great a read.
This book follows the life of Brynne. It is a tale of abuse, drugs, child neglect, and abandonment. She has endured a hard life, one no child should Ever endure. I felt that this book gave a great window into a story that so many children out there possibly share. Its horrifying and heart wrenching all the same. For this reason I was attached. I Needed to see what happened with Brynne. I was fighting for her to get out and away from her life. She is such a strong and wonderful girl, she deserves the world to be at her finger tips. Such is though, she is left with a hard life that she fights to survive.
In the book we flash POV and Timeline between Brynne, her mother, and Her adoptive mother. It can be slightly disorienting, but it gives you such a better understanding of the story as whole, its worth it to push through when you get thrown off. I felt like the book developed as it went on. It may have been my understanding of the way the author wrote, or that I was that enveloped in the book, but it got much easier to follow and read. I learned what characters were talking rather quickly.
The end of this book totally killed me. WHAT a cliffhanger! I could not get enough of the book and than Jennifer goes and throws an ending like THAT at me! What is a girl to do? Well, this one is sitting patiently and waiting for book 2 :) So get reading. Give the book a chance, it deserves it. Its really that great a read.
October 20, 2013
This book is really hard to review. It was written in a narrators POV which is not something that I have come across in a very long time but it was very well done. It gave the reader a glimpse into everyone involved and made the story line very easy to follow even though there was a bit of jumping around time-wise.
The main focus of the book is Eva (AKA Brynn)who the reader follows from birth until 30ish. She endured unimaginable abuse by the hands of her drug addicted young mother and drug dealer father who decide to leave Eva on the side of a road one cold night when she was four.
Eventually she was adopted into a loveless marriage where Thomas (adoptive father) verbally and physically abused both her and her mother on top of being a raging alcoholic. And Rose (adoptive mother) was never strong enough to leave and left Brynn feeling as if she needed to take care of her mother.
Unfortunately Brynn never learned what love was. She met her husband when they were 15 in high school. They went to the same college and got married. Adam knows that she had a very hard life but she never really let him in. She was just so damaged and he eventually did what he always promised that he would never do. Leave her.
I would imagine that for most people reading this book, that the abuse written would be unimaginable. Unfortunately for me, it is not. Although I did not endure anything as bad a Eva/Brynn, I did endure. I understand the horror and the hopelessness she felt when the people who are supposed to love and protect you do nothing but hurt you. I understand her despair. I felt her pain. And I understand how incredibly hard it is to let someone in to truly love and be loved.
The main focus of the book is Eva (AKA Brynn)who the reader follows from birth until 30ish. She endured unimaginable abuse by the hands of her drug addicted young mother and drug dealer father who decide to leave Eva on the side of a road one cold night when she was four.
Eventually she was adopted into a loveless marriage where Thomas (adoptive father) verbally and physically abused both her and her mother on top of being a raging alcoholic. And Rose (adoptive mother) was never strong enough to leave and left Brynn feeling as if she needed to take care of her mother.
Unfortunately Brynn never learned what love was. She met her husband when they were 15 in high school. They went to the same college and got married. Adam knows that she had a very hard life but she never really let him in. She was just so damaged and he eventually did what he always promised that he would never do. Leave her.
I would imagine that for most people reading this book, that the abuse written would be unimaginable. Unfortunately for me, it is not. Although I did not endure anything as bad a Eva/Brynn, I did endure. I understand the horror and the hopelessness she felt when the people who are supposed to love and protect you do nothing but hurt you. I understand her despair. I felt her pain. And I understand how incredibly hard it is to let someone in to truly love and be loved.
May 14, 2013
*** This book contains acts of violence against a child; also drug abuse. If you are uncomfortable reading that this is your heads up. ***
While reading this story, there were moments where I told myself I was going to put the book and stop reading it. And there were a couple times that I did actually do that. However, curiosity did get the better of me and I couldn’t stay away from it. By the time that I had finished the book, I was so upset with the cliffhanger that I actually told the author that as well!
This story touches on subjects, such as child and drug abuse, but it does it in such a way that you could almost learn from what has happened in the book. Jennifer was able to write this story and even with the topics it touched on, you wanted to learn what happened to the characters. Brynn’s character was so well written that even with everything that she had went through in her life; you could tell how strong she was.
The different characters in this story, they each had their own demons they were fighting with and you learned about them during the course of the story.
My only complaint about this book is that when Jennifer started a new chapter, there was no timeline given, or when it was a different character talking in that chapter. You have to read sometimes several pages into a new chapter before you are aware of how many years have passed, or when it was a different character talking.
The ending to this book was well written and it left you wanting for more. It’s almost as if you want to find out what is going to happen next, and you don’t want to wait to find out more.
While reading this story, there were moments where I told myself I was going to put the book and stop reading it. And there were a couple times that I did actually do that. However, curiosity did get the better of me and I couldn’t stay away from it. By the time that I had finished the book, I was so upset with the cliffhanger that I actually told the author that as well!
This story touches on subjects, such as child and drug abuse, but it does it in such a way that you could almost learn from what has happened in the book. Jennifer was able to write this story and even with the topics it touched on, you wanted to learn what happened to the characters. Brynn’s character was so well written that even with everything that she had went through in her life; you could tell how strong she was.
The different characters in this story, they each had their own demons they were fighting with and you learned about them during the course of the story.
My only complaint about this book is that when Jennifer started a new chapter, there was no timeline given, or when it was a different character talking in that chapter. You have to read sometimes several pages into a new chapter before you are aware of how many years have passed, or when it was a different character talking.
The ending to this book was well written and it left you wanting for more. It’s almost as if you want to find out what is going to happen next, and you don’t want to wait to find out more.
May 16, 2015
Book: Leaving Eva
Author: Jennifer Sivec
Publication Date: 4/8/2015
Reviewed by: Tammy Payne- Book Nook Nuts
My Rating: 5 Stars
REVIEW
New to me author
Let me say this book may not be for everyone. It's very detailed , Child abuse at its worse is what I’d say but aside from that. It's a very compelling story. I could not put it down till It was finished. I do hope we get more to the story.
Eva could have had a good life with her grandparents if only her mother would have loved her enough but no she drops her off on the side of the road. Eva was severely abused by her birth father then left only to be found and abused yet again by the father who adopted her for his wife’s sake. At 5 yrs old her name is changed to Brynn. Her only childhood friend is her neighbor and she also endures physical abuse from her father so that makes for best friends. Brynn goes on to marry her childhood sweetheart but she has never truly opened up to him about all the demons within her closet. Her adopted father finally dies and her stepmom becomes very clingy taking a lot of Brynn's time which causes an issue with her husband Adam.
Can Brynn/Eva every truly move on?
Can she save herself and her marriage?
Wow let me tell you this is one very heartbreaking story. But its' also a story of strength and forgiveness.
The characters and story just grab you and pull you in.
The author leaves us with one heck of a cliffhanger so I hope the next book comes soon.
I was gifted this book for my honest review.
Jennifer Sivec
Author: Jennifer Sivec
Publication Date: 4/8/2015
Reviewed by: Tammy Payne- Book Nook Nuts
My Rating: 5 Stars
REVIEW
New to me author
Let me say this book may not be for everyone. It's very detailed , Child abuse at its worse is what I’d say but aside from that. It's a very compelling story. I could not put it down till It was finished. I do hope we get more to the story.
Eva could have had a good life with her grandparents if only her mother would have loved her enough but no she drops her off on the side of the road. Eva was severely abused by her birth father then left only to be found and abused yet again by the father who adopted her for his wife’s sake. At 5 yrs old her name is changed to Brynn. Her only childhood friend is her neighbor and she also endures physical abuse from her father so that makes for best friends. Brynn goes on to marry her childhood sweetheart but she has never truly opened up to him about all the demons within her closet. Her adopted father finally dies and her stepmom becomes very clingy taking a lot of Brynn's time which causes an issue with her husband Adam.
Can Brynn/Eva every truly move on?
Can she save herself and her marriage?
Wow let me tell you this is one very heartbreaking story. But its' also a story of strength and forgiveness.
The characters and story just grab you and pull you in.
The author leaves us with one heck of a cliffhanger so I hope the next book comes soon.
I was gifted this book for my honest review.
Jennifer Sivec
Read
October 29, 2013This book was a hard read. It made me angry at times that I just wanted to jump into the book and save this poor little girl that was living in hell. I know that things like this really do happen in real life and I feel sorry for the people that actually have to live through these kinds of things. I think the book was well written and cannot come to grasp that people actually can do things so horrible to women and to little kids. Enough about that lets get into the book.
The book starts of dark, and you are wondering what the hell is going on. Then you see the light at the end of the tunnel but then you find out that it was just an optical illusion and that the darkness hasn’t left at all. Then again you see the light, but nope just a hallulation. The book goes on and on like that. But it made me stop and think about my life and the people that are in it. It made me wants to go to them all gives them a big hug and kiss and tell them that I am sorry for anything that I have ever done that could have hurt them. So even if you think that this book is hard to read just please keep reading cause the ending is worth getting to. But you know that even in darkness that there is love that can help heal all. A love that is never ending a love that can last through everything. That is a love that can heal any broken heart, and the mind that cannot relax. I give this book four stars and hope that you will read this book because it will touch your heart more then you will ever realize.
The book starts of dark, and you are wondering what the hell is going on. Then you see the light at the end of the tunnel but then you find out that it was just an optical illusion and that the darkness hasn’t left at all. Then again you see the light, but nope just a hallulation. The book goes on and on like that. But it made me stop and think about my life and the people that are in it. It made me wants to go to them all gives them a big hug and kiss and tell them that I am sorry for anything that I have ever done that could have hurt them. So even if you think that this book is hard to read just please keep reading cause the ending is worth getting to. But you know that even in darkness that there is love that can help heal all. A love that is never ending a love that can last through everything. That is a love that can heal any broken heart, and the mind that cannot relax. I give this book four stars and hope that you will read this book because it will touch your heart more then you will ever realize.
June 14, 2013
Man. Oh, Man. This was a tough book to read at times. It touches on some pretty heavy topics like drugs and domestic abuse. The writer's style is simply amazing in that she drags into the lives of these characters and holds you there, demanding that you care about them.
... and care, you do. Deeply.
The intertwining story lines are so amazing that I can't believe that I'm still giving this book 4-stars. Why? Well, there were a few problems that I'm overlooking with this rating simply because the story was so very well done.
You get lost sometimes. The author will be talking about a set of characters and circumstances in one chapter and switch to something different in another. You're left trying to figure out where they all connect and it caused me to get the names mixed up sometimes. It eventually works itself out, but it's a bit distracting for the reader.
The biggest "sin" of this book though... the editing. This book deserves an editor and it's painfully obvious that it did not get that. Some major grammatical errors and spelling issues as well as using the wrong word.
However, I simply cannot give this book less than 4 stars because of the story. I really really want to take off more because of the editing, but I simply can't. I can overlook it.
Read this book. Just do it.
Recommended for chick-lit fans, I think. It's hard to choose a die-hard audience for this, but it's really really good.
... and care, you do. Deeply.
The intertwining story lines are so amazing that I can't believe that I'm still giving this book 4-stars. Why? Well, there were a few problems that I'm overlooking with this rating simply because the story was so very well done.
You get lost sometimes. The author will be talking about a set of characters and circumstances in one chapter and switch to something different in another. You're left trying to figure out where they all connect and it caused me to get the names mixed up sometimes. It eventually works itself out, but it's a bit distracting for the reader.
The biggest "sin" of this book though... the editing. This book deserves an editor and it's painfully obvious that it did not get that. Some major grammatical errors and spelling issues as well as using the wrong word.
However, I simply cannot give this book less than 4 stars because of the story. I really really want to take off more because of the editing, but I simply can't. I can overlook it.
Read this book. Just do it.
Recommended for chick-lit fans, I think. It's hard to choose a die-hard audience for this, but it's really really good.
June 29, 2016
Eva/Brynn was born to a drug addicted runaway mother who father left her at the side of the road . then she is adopted and her name is changed to Brynn but her adopted father abuses her also. Brynn started to cut herself when she was younger at least she could control that. Then she finds comfort and love in Adam and marries him. But Brynn must face her past or possibly lose Adam.
This was some story. It was an absolute roller coaster ride and so realistic it was scary. It did go back and forth a lot from past to present and normally I really don’t like that but this was so well written The story riveted you in and you got through it. Also having the point of view change from Brynn to her birth mother got a little confusing at times but the story was that good that once again you got through it. But then to my absolute horror it was a cliffhanger. One thing I really can’t stand but I will have to wait for the next book. That is why this is a four instead of a five, But I do definitely recommend.
I received an ARC of this story for an honest review.
This was some story. It was an absolute roller coaster ride and so realistic it was scary. It did go back and forth a lot from past to present and normally I really don’t like that but this was so well written The story riveted you in and you got through it. Also having the point of view change from Brynn to her birth mother got a little confusing at times but the story was that good that once again you got through it. But then to my absolute horror it was a cliffhanger. One thing I really can’t stand but I will have to wait for the next book. That is why this is a four instead of a five, But I do definitely recommend.
I received an ARC of this story for an honest review.
March 24, 2015
OMG!!! This book took me on a journey through every possible emotion known to man. Jennifer Sivec has written a book that needs to be read and discussed!!
My heart broke for Eva/Brynn from the very first word in the book. I am still not sure what I feel for Ellie. Rose...poor Rose. Then there is Adam. I really wanted to hate him...but I just can't. I understand him and his love for Brynn. I think he is good man in a really tough situation.
I don't want to ruin this AMAZING story for any prospective readers...All I am going to say is READ THIS BOOK!!! I promise that you will not be sorry. Yes, there is a MAJOR cliffhanger at the end of this book....But Jennifer Sivec did it the right way. She leaves her readers screaming to know what comes next. I cannot wait to get my hands on book 2 in this series. This story is worthy of way more than 5 stars!!! Just read the book ;)
My heart broke for Eva/Brynn from the very first word in the book. I am still not sure what I feel for Ellie. Rose...poor Rose. Then there is Adam. I really wanted to hate him...but I just can't. I understand him and his love for Brynn. I think he is good man in a really tough situation.
I don't want to ruin this AMAZING story for any prospective readers...All I am going to say is READ THIS BOOK!!! I promise that you will not be sorry. Yes, there is a MAJOR cliffhanger at the end of this book....But Jennifer Sivec did it the right way. She leaves her readers screaming to know what comes next. I cannot wait to get my hands on book 2 in this series. This story is worthy of way more than 5 stars!!! Just read the book ;)
May 11, 2016
This book was provided by the publisher through NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
The beginning of this book was a rough read- it was choppy and raw, kind of like it missed the editing stage of writing. However, once I got passed that, I couldn't stop reading it. It was emotionally painful to read about such horrible abuse, although I know it does happen. The book should have a trigger warning on the cover because it covers just about every kind of abuse imaginable. It was hard to connect with the main characters, but it was very easy to empathize with them.
The beginning of this book was a rough read- it was choppy and raw, kind of like it missed the editing stage of writing. However, once I got passed that, I couldn't stop reading it. It was emotionally painful to read about such horrible abuse, although I know it does happen. The book should have a trigger warning on the cover because it covers just about every kind of abuse imaginable. It was hard to connect with the main characters, but it was very easy to empathize with them.
January 13, 2017
I recieved this book from the Author for an honest review. I started reading this book knowing it would have some disturbing parts but I decided to give it a shot. And boy am I glad I did.
Leaving Eva was a sad,emotion Rollercoaster from the start. I was hooked from the first chapter to the last. Bryan was adopted into a family that was suppose to be filled with love and affection but turned out to be the total opposite shareing her for life. As she grows up to be a young women she realizes that some demons you can't run from.
Review by Country GALS BOOK Blog
Leaving Eva was a sad,emotion Rollercoaster from the start. I was hooked from the first chapter to the last. Bryan was adopted into a family that was suppose to be filled with love and affection but turned out to be the total opposite shareing her for life. As she grows up to be a young women she realizes that some demons you can't run from.
Review by Country GALS BOOK Blog
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