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Heart Collection #6
The Heart Remembers
An alternate cover for this ASIN can be found here.
Our history had been defined by kisses.
The one he stole from me at 17.
The one I gave to him at 20.
The one we shared when I was 27 changed the course of everything.
I’d had a crush on Levi Walker my entire life, but he always saw me as a child. A little girl running around the yard, dancing under sprinklers, and dreaming of princes. I was no longer that innocent girl, though. I was a successful woman of my own means about to embark on a life I’d always wanted.
I’ve returned home for a family celebration, only the surprise is on me.
Levi Walker has come home as well, and he looks even better than the teenager I remember. He’s broken, lost, and a little uncertain of his future, but there’s one thing that hasn’t changed. He’s still a piece of my heart/history.
When someone steals kisses from you, the heart remembers, and that pesky emotional organ wants a repeat.
Our history had been defined by kisses.
The one he stole from me at 17.
The one I gave to him at 20.
The one we shared when I was 27 changed the course of everything.
I’d had a crush on Levi Walker my entire life, but he always saw me as a child. A little girl running around the yard, dancing under sprinklers, and dreaming of princes. I was no longer that innocent girl, though. I was a successful woman of my own means about to embark on a life I’d always wanted.
I’ve returned home for a family celebration, only the surprise is on me.
Levi Walker has come home as well, and he looks even better than the teenager I remember. He’s broken, lost, and a little uncertain of his future, but there’s one thing that hasn’t changed. He’s still a piece of my heart/history.
When someone steals kisses from you, the heart remembers, and that pesky emotional organ wants a repeat.
301 pages, Kindle Edition
First published May 30, 2017
279 people are currently reading
761 people want to read
About the author
L.B. Dunbar
91 books3,273 followersL.B. Dunbar loves sexy silver foxes, second chances, and small towns. If you enjoy older characters in your romance reads, including a hero with a little silver in his scruff and a heroine rediscovering her worth, then welcome to romance for those over 40. L.B. Dunbar’s signature works include women and men in their prime taking another turn at love and happily ever after. She’s a USA TODAY Bestseller as well as #1 Bestseller on Amazon in Later in Life Romance with her Sterling Falls, Lakeside Cottage, and Road Trips & Romance series. L.B. lives in Chicago with her own sexy silver fox.
To get all the scoop about the self-proclaimed queen of silver fox romance, join her on Facebook at Loving L.B. or receive her weekly newsletter, Love Notes.
To get all the scoop about the self-proclaimed queen of silver fox romance, join her on Facebook at Loving L.B. or receive her weekly newsletter, Love Notes.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 228 reviews
February 7, 2021
I've always loved silver foxes that seem to be a corner of indie world completely ruled by LB , not containing or limiting love to an age bracket. Her nuanced writing touches on hidden soft spots of mature love stories. But she ventures into youthful terrain with this book and delivers an astoundingly beautiful story yet again. this particular story started as a bonus novella. The connection proved to be too Enticingly powerful to ignore, I think. hence Dunbar did us a favor by giving it a book of its own.
Starting with a stolen kiss in an alley, the journey of mistimed love will hold you captive till it reaches its HEA
"There's a history in us. It forms us. Based on it, it dictates who we are, decisions we make, and journeys we take."
What a divine story of Insecure love. Dunbar has me gobsmacked with this heart-touchingly sensitive story of a couple who's struggling with self worth and lost chances. It's PERFECT story with just the right amount of angst, right amount of push & pull, right amount of passion and magnetism and then right amount of heartbreaking tears.
“I met a man who was going to be a hero by going off to fight wars, and I wanted to do my part. I thought my random acts of kindness might trickle out into the universe and help him find his way home.”
Levi & Katie belong together, have been for more than a decade. They've just crossed paths and parted ways, just couldn't get at the same place in their relationship at the same time.
THR is a celebration of love that completes, one which is stumbling around trying to find its place, a home. Ultimately discovering their corner of heaven with each other and recognizing it's worth enough to hold on to it with both hands and never letting go
“You’re my home,” I say, holding her eyes. “And I’d like to come home.”
OMG, I legit teared up on this line, this scene, this situation. The raw honesty of emotions, the vulnerability of an asking heart, it was....PERFECT!!
You can't manouver love, can't predict who it will strike, when you know; you know.
A love that lost its way, but The Heart Remembers ❤️
Pick up this book when it releases and come thank me later.
5 stars for Towels and Toilet paper....and everything in between
Follow me on:
Email🌻 Bookbub 🌻 Twitter🌻 Instagram🌻 Blog🌻 Facebook🌻 Amazon 🌻
Starting with a stolen kiss in an alley, the journey of mistimed love will hold you captive till it reaches its HEA
"There's a history in us. It forms us. Based on it, it dictates who we are, decisions we make, and journeys we take."
What a divine story of Insecure love. Dunbar has me gobsmacked with this heart-touchingly sensitive story of a couple who's struggling with self worth and lost chances. It's PERFECT story with just the right amount of angst, right amount of push & pull, right amount of passion and magnetism and then right amount of heartbreaking tears.
“I met a man who was going to be a hero by going off to fight wars, and I wanted to do my part. I thought my random acts of kindness might trickle out into the universe and help him find his way home.”
Levi & Katie belong together, have been for more than a decade. They've just crossed paths and parted ways, just couldn't get at the same place in their relationship at the same time.
THR is a celebration of love that completes, one which is stumbling around trying to find its place, a home. Ultimately discovering their corner of heaven with each other and recognizing it's worth enough to hold on to it with both hands and never letting go
“You’re my home,” I say, holding her eyes. “And I’d like to come home.”
OMG, I legit teared up on this line, this scene, this situation. The raw honesty of emotions, the vulnerability of an asking heart, it was....PERFECT!!
You can't manouver love, can't predict who it will strike, when you know; you know.
A love that lost its way, but The Heart Remembers ❤️
Pick up this book when it releases and come thank me later.
5 stars for Towels and Toilet paper....and everything in between
Follow me on:
Email🌻 Bookbub 🌻 Twitter🌻 Instagram🌻 Blog🌻 Facebook🌻 Amazon 🌻
May 26, 2017
A top read for this year...
I absolutely LOVED this book! The author did a phenomenal job and had me hooked from the very beginning through to the end and managed to pull at some emotions a few times in there. This book is written in Katie and Levi's alternating POV. I have previously read, and enjoyed, her Sensations Collection series (where these characters originated) and thought this was an amazing addition and it was great revisiting the Carter family. I absolutely adore Katie and Levi. They had some history when they were younger but both moved from the small town to try and find themselves, in doing so they found each other again.
This book can be read as a complete standalone.
*** Copy of this book received in exchange for my honest review.
I absolutely LOVED this book! The author did a phenomenal job and had me hooked from the very beginning through to the end and managed to pull at some emotions a few times in there. This book is written in Katie and Levi's alternating POV. I have previously read, and enjoyed, her Sensations Collection series (where these characters originated) and thought this was an amazing addition and it was great revisiting the Carter family. I absolutely adore Katie and Levi. They had some history when they were younger but both moved from the small town to try and find themselves, in doing so they found each other again.
This book can be read as a complete standalone.
*** Copy of this book received in exchange for my honest review.
February 7, 2021
I've always loved silver foxes that seem to be a corner of indie world completely ruled by LB , not containing or limiting love to an age bracket. Her nuanced writing touches on hidden soft spots of mature love stories. But she ventures into youthful terrain with this book and delivers an astoundingly beautiful story yet again. this particular story started as a bonus novella. The connection proved to be too Enticingly powerful to ignore, I think. hence Dunbar did us a favor by giving it a book of its own.
Starting with a stolen kiss in an alley, the journey of mistimed love will hold you captive till it reaches its HEA
"There's a history in us. It forms us. Based on it, it dictates who we are, decisions we make, and journeys we take."
What a divine story of Insecure love. Dunbar has me gobsmacked with this heart-touchingly sensitive story of a couple who's struggling with self worth and lost chances. It's PERFECT story with just the right amount of angst, right amount of push & pull, right amount of passion and magnetism and then right amount of heartbreaking tears.
“I met a man who was going to be a hero by going off to fight wars, and I wanted to do my part. I thought my random acts of kindness might trickle out into the universe and help him find his way home.”
Levi & Katie belong together, have been for more than a decade. They've just crossed paths and parted ways, just couldn't get at the same place in their relationship at the same time.
THR is a celebration of love that completes, one which is stumbling around trying to find its place, a home. Ultimately discovering their corner of heaven with each other and recognizing it's worth enough to hold on to it with both hands and never letting go
“You’re my home,” I say, holding her eyes. “And I’d like to come home.”
OMG, I legit teared up on this line, this scene, this situation. The raw honesty of emotions, the vulnerability of an asking heart, it was....PERFECT!!
You can't manouver love, can't predict who it will strike, when you know; you know.
A love that lost its way, but The Heart Remembers ❤️
Pick up this book when it releases and come thank me later.
5 stars for Towels and Toilet paper....and everything in between
Follow me on:
Email🌻 Bookbub 🌻 Twitter🌻 Instagram🌻 Blog🌻 Facebook🌻 Amazon 🌻
Starting with a stolen kiss in an alley, the journey of mistimed love will hold you captive till it reaches its HEA
"There's a history in us. It forms us. Based on it, it dictates who we are, decisions we make, and journeys we take."
What a divine story of Insecure love. Dunbar has me gobsmacked with this heart-touchingly sensitive story of a couple who's struggling with self worth and lost chances. It's PERFECT story with just the right amount of angst, right amount of push & pull, right amount of passion and magnetism and then right amount of heartbreaking tears.
“I met a man who was going to be a hero by going off to fight wars, and I wanted to do my part. I thought my random acts of kindness might trickle out into the universe and help him find his way home.”
Levi & Katie belong together, have been for more than a decade. They've just crossed paths and parted ways, just couldn't get at the same place in their relationship at the same time.
THR is a celebration of love that completes, one which is stumbling around trying to find its place, a home. Ultimately discovering their corner of heaven with each other and recognizing it's worth enough to hold on to it with both hands and never letting go
“You’re my home,” I say, holding her eyes. “And I’d like to come home.”
OMG, I legit teared up on this line, this scene, this situation. The raw honesty of emotions, the vulnerability of an asking heart, it was....PERFECT!!
You can't manouver love, can't predict who it will strike, when you know; you know.
A love that lost its way, but The Heart Remembers ❤️
Pick up this book when it releases and come thank me later.
5 stars for Towels and Toilet paper....and everything in between
Follow me on:
Email🌻 Bookbub 🌻 Twitter🌻 Instagram🌻 Blog🌻 Facebook🌻 Amazon 🌻
February 15, 2021
If you think you’ve already read this story, you are wrong. This is a completely re-written novella with the same characters, but only a hint of the former story line.
This is a spin off from the Hearts Collection series, so if you’ve read any of that series you’ll have a lot more backstory, but it’s not necessary to enjoy this book.
Levi has always wanted to the be the hero in Katie’s story, but instead he feels like a failure in his own. Back from the war with painful memories and permanent reminders of the horrors of combat, Levi has been working hard to feel whole again. With a new baby and single fatherhood added to this mix, he has a lot on his plate.
Katie had just broken up with the perfect man on paper, but not the perfect man for her. She desperately misses a thrilling connection with someone and I love that she finds that with Levi.
They say, “You know, when you know.” And their hearts definitely remember. A great story that reminds you that the journey to love can be long and winding, but it’s worth it.
This is a spin off from the Hearts Collection series, so if you’ve read any of that series you’ll have a lot more backstory, but it’s not necessary to enjoy this book.
Levi has always wanted to the be the hero in Katie’s story, but instead he feels like a failure in his own. Back from the war with painful memories and permanent reminders of the horrors of combat, Levi has been working hard to feel whole again. With a new baby and single fatherhood added to this mix, he has a lot on his plate.
Katie had just broken up with the perfect man on paper, but not the perfect man for her. She desperately misses a thrilling connection with someone and I love that she finds that with Levi.
They say, “You know, when you know.” And their hearts definitely remember. A great story that reminds you that the journey to love can be long and winding, but it’s worth it.
July 5, 2017
Another case of inexperienced heroine and ultra experienced hero. In this case, i thought it worked for the most part but there was a lot of hero worship and that always makes me uncomfortable. It's even brought up in the book! The hero has to keep reminding the heroine that he's not the perfect hero that she created in her mind. But other than that I really liked it! It's hard to find a story with depth and I loved the characters.
June 3, 2017
LB Dunbar is always a joy to read, and The History in Us is certainly not exception. If you have read her Sensations collection, the casts of characters will be mostly familiar to you. In Ms. Dunbar’s very first book, Sound Advice, we met Katie Carter, the sweetest little girl who undoubtedly stole your heart. The History in Us finds Katie a grown woman in grad school in Chicago. Levi is also a character who played a smaller part in the Sensations Collection, another character who probably made an impact on you as a child of unfortunate circumstances. If you haven’t read her previous series, though, this definitely works as a standalone read as well. Nothing in this book was ever remotely hinted at in any previous books, it just enhanced the reading experience for me to have some background on some of the characters. This amazing, emotional story earns its 5 stars on its own merits, without a doubt.
Levi didn’t have an easy childhood, but his years in the military, and the physical and mental scars he carries with him from battle are an even heavier burden to bear. Throw in single fatherhood, and it is no wonder that he has no idea how to process that the girl who wanted him to be a hero is a grown woman in his life once again.
The emotional spectrum this story spans is almost overwhelming – be sure to have tissues ready for both extremes. Releasing this gem between Memorial Day and Father’s Day is perfect timing, as it does great service to both our vets and those who should be every child’s first hero, their father. We all know that, sadly, not all are worthy of the title, but Ms. Dunbar has an uncanny ability to write amazing father’s.
At times this book is as philosophically as beautiful and intense as it is emotionally. It needs to be on everyone’s summer reading list, though it definitely is not a light beach read. It is truly an honor and a joy to watch this very talented author grow with each new release. I will always be first in line for her next release.
Levi didn’t have an easy childhood, but his years in the military, and the physical and mental scars he carries with him from battle are an even heavier burden to bear. Throw in single fatherhood, and it is no wonder that he has no idea how to process that the girl who wanted him to be a hero is a grown woman in his life once again.
The emotional spectrum this story spans is almost overwhelming – be sure to have tissues ready for both extremes. Releasing this gem between Memorial Day and Father’s Day is perfect timing, as it does great service to both our vets and those who should be every child’s first hero, their father. We all know that, sadly, not all are worthy of the title, but Ms. Dunbar has an uncanny ability to write amazing father’s.
At times this book is as philosophically as beautiful and intense as it is emotionally. It needs to be on everyone’s summer reading list, though it definitely is not a light beach read. It is truly an honor and a joy to watch this very talented author grow with each new release. I will always be first in line for her next release.
January 30, 2021
*I received a free copy of The Heart Remembers. This has in no way influenced my voluntary review which is honest and unbiased.*
Levi and Katie had been in love from afar for years, but apart from two hot kisses in the past, nothing had happened between them. Until Uncle Tom's birthday week, that is. Katie still had her crush on him, and he still saw her as the girl who saved him. Of course, there were many complications, and that just made the stolen sweet moments between them even better.
Well written, with a full cast of characters that are well developed, this novel really did it for me. Extra points to the heroine for reading a hot romance that Levi managed to get from her and read out loud until it became too much for both of them ;)
Levi and Katie had been in love from afar for years, but apart from two hot kisses in the past, nothing had happened between them. Until Uncle Tom's birthday week, that is. Katie still had her crush on him, and he still saw her as the girl who saved him. Of course, there were many complications, and that just made the stolen sweet moments between them even better.
Well written, with a full cast of characters that are well developed, this novel really did it for me. Extra points to the heroine for reading a hot romance that Levi managed to get from her and read out loud until it became too much for both of them ;)
June 2, 2017
The History of Us is my first read by this author and I must have been living under a rock! She has a way with words and it's beautifully written. Katie and Levi's story is a beautiful and broken second chance romance. It's heartbreaking! The anguish is off the charts! This isn't my typical read. There's some sweet and tender moments. There's more heartbreaking moments than happy, but it's the story they tell of how they both had to have heartbreak before they found happiness that really got me.
Levi and Katie have an age gap. They have known each other their whole lives and are from a small town. Levi joins the military to escape his past. Katie is grown in college. When they met again Levi isn't someone Katie remembers. They always had a connection but life wasn't right for them at the time. This is their second chance, but can they get through it when their pasts collide with the present.
When you think home is the last place you want to be, but it becomes something you have always craved, it becomes somewhat haunting. Lb Dunbar's words just flow on the pages. She makes you feel everything she portrays. This is a dual POV.
There were times Katie's character bothered me. I found her whining and a bit weak at times, but she redeemed herself. Levi was struggling with PTSD from the war and his mood swings were a bit unbearable, but it made me understand each one of their characters much better. It's heart wrenching so grab those tissues!!
Levi and Katie have an age gap. They have known each other their whole lives and are from a small town. Levi joins the military to escape his past. Katie is grown in college. When they met again Levi isn't someone Katie remembers. They always had a connection but life wasn't right for them at the time. This is their second chance, but can they get through it when their pasts collide with the present.
When you think home is the last place you want to be, but it becomes something you have always craved, it becomes somewhat haunting. Lb Dunbar's words just flow on the pages. She makes you feel everything she portrays. This is a dual POV.
There were times Katie's character bothered me. I found her whining and a bit weak at times, but she redeemed herself. Levi was struggling with PTSD from the war and his mood swings were a bit unbearable, but it made me understand each one of their characters much better. It's heart wrenching so grab those tissues!!
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June 24, 2020🎁 FREE on Amazon today (6/24/2020)! 🎁
June 25, 2021
For once, I actually thought, "Wow. This hero sucks."
June 3, 2017
L.B. Dunbar spun her magic one again! This is a beautiful love story between Katie Carter and Levi Walker. We first met Katie Carter in Sound Advice and now she is all grown up & it's time to tell her story. Katie finds herself in Chicago attending Northeast University taking an elective course History of Chicago and at that moment the world stands still not just for her but for Levi Walker; the boy she asked will you be a Hero & promised him another kiss when he becomes one. Levi & Katie both pretend they don't recognized each other. They are are both talented strong but guarded people & at the same time feel they are not good enough especially for one another. They are paired up for a class project; which takes them on a journey of discovery of love, heartache, and who they are meant to be. Take the journey with Levi & Katie and find out if they become each other's Heroes. I cried, laughed and even found myself yelling at the characters. This is must read for summer!
May 28, 2017
Eyes Forward!!!
Lb Dunbar is a fairly new author for me, but I am SO glad I read this book. Of course a book with a military man is a no brainer for me, I mean HELLO, YES PLEASE!!! I absolutely could not put this book down. I had to keep going until I saw how it ended, and believe me I was not disappointed. Liam is a deep and complex character who has both alpha male qualities, as well as a mostly hidden sensitive side. The fact that he is a single father makes him all that more drool worthy.
"Are you a hero yet?" Her voice was so low, I may have imagined it. "I want to be. For you, I want to be."
Of course, he has his challenges, and being a vet who suffered horrific and traumatic experiences leaves him with struggles that not everyone gets or understands. That, coupled with his issues related to abandonment make being in a reationship with him somewhat less than ideal for Katie. Katie is an intelligent and innocent girl who wears her heart on her sleeve and immediately is taken with Liam's son, while at the same time trying to balance her fears related to being with Liam. This story was full of angst and drama, and life and love. An awesome 5 star read from L.B. Dunbar.
Lb Dunbar is a fairly new author for me, but I am SO glad I read this book. Of course a book with a military man is a no brainer for me, I mean HELLO, YES PLEASE!!! I absolutely could not put this book down. I had to keep going until I saw how it ended, and believe me I was not disappointed. Liam is a deep and complex character who has both alpha male qualities, as well as a mostly hidden sensitive side. The fact that he is a single father makes him all that more drool worthy.
"Are you a hero yet?" Her voice was so low, I may have imagined it. "I want to be. For you, I want to be."
Of course, he has his challenges, and being a vet who suffered horrific and traumatic experiences leaves him with struggles that not everyone gets or understands. That, coupled with his issues related to abandonment make being in a reationship with him somewhat less than ideal for Katie. Katie is an intelligent and innocent girl who wears her heart on her sleeve and immediately is taken with Liam's son, while at the same time trying to balance her fears related to being with Liam. This story was full of angst and drama, and life and love. An awesome 5 star read from L.B. Dunbar.
May 29, 2017
This is the second book that I have read by L.B. and I thought the story was really good. I was pretty much hooked from the first paragraph. Talk about an attention grabber! I thought Levi and Katie were great characters. He's a single dad and I love me some single dad stories. Men taking care of babies is just so sexy to me. Now, there's a bit of drama between Levi and Katie. There was a lot of push and pull between them and it made me frustrated for a minute. But then Levi pulled his head out of his bum and rocked it out in the end. Besides that, I really enjoyed Levi and Katie's story. I didn't realize some other characters in the book are from her Sensations Collection, I didn't feel lost reading this story but I did add the first book to my tbr so I could check those out as well.
*ARC provided by author in exchange of an honest review *
*ARC provided by author in exchange of an honest review *
May 28, 2017
Levi Walker and Katie Carter have a history, a history that happened when they were younger; a history that happened before Levi joined the military, before Katie was an adult.
They meet again in college of all places. Katie is a graduate student and Levi has been discharged from the military, has a son and is trying to get his life back on track.
I was drawn to this book because of the military theme; but there was more to the story than just the military. My heart broke for Katie and what she experienced as a young girl. Levi’s time in the military was what shaped him into the man he was to become. I absolutely loved the ending!!!
So worth the read!!!
They meet again in college of all places. Katie is a graduate student and Levi has been discharged from the military, has a son and is trying to get his life back on track.
I was drawn to this book because of the military theme; but there was more to the story than just the military. My heart broke for Katie and what she experienced as a young girl. Levi’s time in the military was what shaped him into the man he was to become. I absolutely loved the ending!!!
So worth the read!!!
May 24, 2017
Katie & Levi's story is beautifully broken. The writing is lyrical, the story told heartbreaking. There are sweet and swoony moments, as well! And AJ... Awww! My one complaint in this story is it didn't feel like we got to experience enough of their happy times together. The story is very angsty, and while it's done wonderfully, it was just a few steps TOO angsty for me. I absolutely ADORE the ending, but I wish there'd been a little bit more after the ending, giving us a glimpse at some drama-free time between the lovers.
Overall, this is definitely a recommendation - I love the cadence of L.B. Dunbar's writing, and I'm sure for others this is JUST THE RIGHT AMOUNT of angsty goodness. ; )
Overall, this is definitely a recommendation - I love the cadence of L.B. Dunbar's writing, and I'm sure for others this is JUST THE RIGHT AMOUNT of angsty goodness. ; )
February 22, 2021
I absolutely love this story! Levi and Katie met a long time before the core of this story, but their history is one of the most important elements. Katie and Levi are both great characters. Levi is a veteran who has a difficult past. Katie has her own past. Their chemistry is fantastic and I loved that they both have flaws but are so right for each other. I loved the ending of the book and hope to read more books involving these characters. This book has a little of everything and is just such a great short story that you never want to put it down.
June 12, 2017
I enjoyed the previous story about Katie as a child who didn't speak 'Sound Advice' but I didn't like the premise of this book.
The 'hero'Levi has a baby with his 'friend with benefits' girl, he asks her to keep the baby as he has seen so much death, she leaves him alone to bring up the child.
It felt like a repeat of the previous book to me with a slightly different slant. He is push/pull through the friendship/relationship.
I just didn't like it.
The 'hero'Levi has a baby with his 'friend with benefits' girl, he asks her to keep the baby as he has seen so much death, she leaves him alone to bring up the child.
It felt like a repeat of the previous book to me with a slightly different slant. He is push/pull through the friendship/relationship.
I just didn't like it.
May 29, 2017
One of my favorites of this year!
"Sweet Katie had no idea the looks she could give, melting a man and making him think of all kinds of sin."
The History In Us by Author L. B. Dunbar
friends-to-lovers and second chance at love novels.
"She wanted a hero and I promised myself I’d be one for her. I’d make her proud and return to her, hoping she remembered me. I’d be the hero a girl like her deserved."
Levi Walker had been through hell and back when he decided to make a change in his life, not realizing all that would encompass. His one reason for living, his focus for surviving became a reality at a most unexpected time and place.
“Men fight battles for justice. Women fight for love."
This History in Us was one of the most well thought out and executed stories of a broken hero and the woman who waited for him, believed in him, and loved him. Good golly! Levi Walker made my entire being hum. He was a vulnerable, sexy, and sweet man with intriguing secrets. He was everything he never thought he could be, he just didn't see it. This man made my heart beat like a thousand drums. I loved Katie's character. She was quiet, but her actions spoke loudly. She was not an extrovert to share herself freely, but when she did share herself and give her love, she loved hard. She found the good in others, even when she had to dig for it. She was a precious and rare gem, something set aside for greater things and bigger love.
"I’d never felt this way before, but if she’d let me caress her body, feel the warmth of her skin, and treasure her laying on my bed, I’d atone for all my sins."
This entire story evoked such deep and raw emotions. There was a constant push and pull of desire creating a whirlwind of angst as the tortured pasts of these two young people who desperately wanted to make new roads for the future was revealed. At one point, I looked like one of those GIFs with the crazy girl and her eyes pouring like a water faucet. I was a freaking mess! I cried for past hurts, I cried for promised futures, I cried sappy cries for all the love that poured from both of these characters, even when they didn't trust love. The words, and special moments and people, rocked me to the core and put a vice grip on my heart.
"Life is cake and cake is life, and you need to gobble the ingredients collectively to enjoy the whole.”
Grab your tissues, hold onto your heart, and get ready for a love story that will become your everything.
“History doesn’t come from perseverance, although that’s certainly part of the equation. History comes from love. Love of self, love of God, love of country, but most importantly, love to and from another person.”
#SexyWalker
"Sweet Katie had no idea the looks she could give, melting a man and making him think of all kinds of sin."
The History In Us by Author L. B. Dunbar
friends-to-lovers and second chance at love novels.
"She wanted a hero and I promised myself I’d be one for her. I’d make her proud and return to her, hoping she remembered me. I’d be the hero a girl like her deserved."
Levi Walker had been through hell and back when he decided to make a change in his life, not realizing all that would encompass. His one reason for living, his focus for surviving became a reality at a most unexpected time and place.
“Men fight battles for justice. Women fight for love."
This History in Us was one of the most well thought out and executed stories of a broken hero and the woman who waited for him, believed in him, and loved him. Good golly! Levi Walker made my entire being hum. He was a vulnerable, sexy, and sweet man with intriguing secrets. He was everything he never thought he could be, he just didn't see it. This man made my heart beat like a thousand drums. I loved Katie's character. She was quiet, but her actions spoke loudly. She was not an extrovert to share herself freely, but when she did share herself and give her love, she loved hard. She found the good in others, even when she had to dig for it. She was a precious and rare gem, something set aside for greater things and bigger love.
"I’d never felt this way before, but if she’d let me caress her body, feel the warmth of her skin, and treasure her laying on my bed, I’d atone for all my sins."
This entire story evoked such deep and raw emotions. There was a constant push and pull of desire creating a whirlwind of angst as the tortured pasts of these two young people who desperately wanted to make new roads for the future was revealed. At one point, I looked like one of those GIFs with the crazy girl and her eyes pouring like a water faucet. I was a freaking mess! I cried for past hurts, I cried for promised futures, I cried sappy cries for all the love that poured from both of these characters, even when they didn't trust love. The words, and special moments and people, rocked me to the core and put a vice grip on my heart.
"Life is cake and cake is life, and you need to gobble the ingredients collectively to enjoy the whole.”
Grab your tissues, hold onto your heart, and get ready for a love story that will become your everything.
“History doesn’t come from perseverance, although that’s certainly part of the equation. History comes from love. Love of self, love of God, love of country, but most importantly, love to and from another person.”
#SexyWalker
May 30, 2017
I have read a few books by this author and I knew from the last book I read from her The Sex Education of Me that The History in Us was going to be a great read. I could just feel it in my bones and I was absolutely right. OMG!!! This story leaves you with a roller coaster of emotions even lasting after you finished reading it. The characters have gone through so much and hold onto more than they should. Starting at a young age they hold onto a fantasy of each other- a kiss that they can't forget.
Katie leaves her small town and heads to the big city to find answers, during that time she works on her dream of becoming a writer. I feel in love with her and her fantasy of knights, castles, a woman who can slay dragons and a hero. Katie is a one of a kind woman with a big heart and sweet as can be, she holds on to the heartbreak of her childhood that has her trying hard to protect her heart. When someone from her past comes back into her life, she realizes that he never left and memories from their past begins a relationship that she always wished for but never saw coming.
Levi's family was the talk of the small town he grew up in, wanting to run away from the bad stories that have tarnished his last name, he joins the service. He takes with him a kiss and the thought of being somebody's hero. It seemed to much to live up to so he pushed back that thought, became a father and fought the memories of those he lost on the battlefield. Levi's life is not easy as a single father with trying to raise a baby and still go after his dream of becoming a photographer. He has a great support team and it gets even better when he runs into Katie, that is until he fights his feelings and every doubt he seems to have bites him in the ass. Katie is everything he has ever wanted but he doesn't feel deserving, will he be able to follow his heart and go after what he truly wants before it's to late?
The History in Us is one story that you will find yourself wanting to talk about but not wanting to spoil anything. The emotions in the story have to be felt by the reader because it's powerful, it's not only powerful it's sexy, heartfelt, heartbreaking, frustrating and just filled with love- A love that started years ago but has too many obstacles in between. I just want to shout... I LOVE THIS STORY!!!
5 Must Read Stars
Katie leaves her small town and heads to the big city to find answers, during that time she works on her dream of becoming a writer. I feel in love with her and her fantasy of knights, castles, a woman who can slay dragons and a hero. Katie is a one of a kind woman with a big heart and sweet as can be, she holds on to the heartbreak of her childhood that has her trying hard to protect her heart. When someone from her past comes back into her life, she realizes that he never left and memories from their past begins a relationship that she always wished for but never saw coming.
Levi's family was the talk of the small town he grew up in, wanting to run away from the bad stories that have tarnished his last name, he joins the service. He takes with him a kiss and the thought of being somebody's hero. It seemed to much to live up to so he pushed back that thought, became a father and fought the memories of those he lost on the battlefield. Levi's life is not easy as a single father with trying to raise a baby and still go after his dream of becoming a photographer. He has a great support team and it gets even better when he runs into Katie, that is until he fights his feelings and every doubt he seems to have bites him in the ass. Katie is everything he has ever wanted but he doesn't feel deserving, will he be able to follow his heart and go after what he truly wants before it's to late?
The History in Us is one story that you will find yourself wanting to talk about but not wanting to spoil anything. The emotions in the story have to be felt by the reader because it's powerful, it's not only powerful it's sexy, heartfelt, heartbreaking, frustrating and just filled with love- A love that started years ago but has too many obstacles in between. I just want to shout... I LOVE THIS STORY!!!
5 Must Read Stars
June 8, 2017
4.5 Stars! - L.B. Dunbar delivers a poignant, life-affirming tale with Katie and Levi’s story in The History in Us. From the very first page I was hooked, curious to uncover what the author had in store for these two seemingly opposite characters. I was certainly not disappointed as L.B. Dunbar took readers on a journey that raised as many questions as it answered and forced Katie and Levi to face the power of the past before exploring the possibility of a future. Since this duo shared some very brief history, The History in Us held a certain second-chance tone that kept me riveted to the pages. I needed to know how Katie and Levi’s story would play out and I was anxious to clarify their connection and reconcile their very different worlds. Despite the challenges they faced, this couple shared a heady connection and electric chemistry that made it impossible not to fall in love with them. I was hooked on Katie and Levi’s push and pull and couldn’t help but root for them to redefine their history and secure the future.
Having met Katie as a child in Sound Advice, I was thrilled to hear we’d be seeing her all grown up. I absolutely adored getting to know this character as an adult and experiencing her story in an entirely new way. L.B. Dunbar did a fantastic job allowing Katie’s book to stand on its own, while tying in that comforting familiarity of her family. I also appreciated the way L.B. Dunbar incorporated Katie’s past into her present day insecurities and fears, giving this character an authenticity that is not only rare but also incredibly beautiful. Levi, on the other hand, proved to be the perfect new addition to L.B. Dunbar’s fictional world and I loved the way she tied him back to Katie’s hometown so effortlessly. His own history was heart wrenching and made me feel, giving Levi the kind of depth and intrigue that completely captivates. While I definitely wanted to know more about this enigmatic and charming hero, there were plenty of twists where Levi was concerned to keep me turning the pages.
The writing was breathtaking and full of emotion, bringing Katie and Levi’s journey to life in a way that felt real and visceral. I experienced their pain as my own and reveled in the moments of joy and hope this couple shared. L.B. Dunbar had me wholly enthralled and undeniably invested in Katie and Levi’s happily ever after. While there were plenty of sweet and sexy moments in this story, The History in Us wasn’t afraid to pull any punches. The storyline definitely dealt with some painful realities and ugly truths, delivering a good dose of angst alongside the romance. Balancing out the whole thing was some much needed laughter and levity in the form of the lovable and fun secondary characters. I can only hope we’ll be seeing more of them in the future. L.B. Dunbar definitely has another hit on her hands with this contemporary romance. Smart, heartfelt, and overflowing with genuine emotion, The History in Us is an utterly unforgettable read.
Having met Katie as a child in Sound Advice, I was thrilled to hear we’d be seeing her all grown up. I absolutely adored getting to know this character as an adult and experiencing her story in an entirely new way. L.B. Dunbar did a fantastic job allowing Katie’s book to stand on its own, while tying in that comforting familiarity of her family. I also appreciated the way L.B. Dunbar incorporated Katie’s past into her present day insecurities and fears, giving this character an authenticity that is not only rare but also incredibly beautiful. Levi, on the other hand, proved to be the perfect new addition to L.B. Dunbar’s fictional world and I loved the way she tied him back to Katie’s hometown so effortlessly. His own history was heart wrenching and made me feel, giving Levi the kind of depth and intrigue that completely captivates. While I definitely wanted to know more about this enigmatic and charming hero, there were plenty of twists where Levi was concerned to keep me turning the pages.
The writing was breathtaking and full of emotion, bringing Katie and Levi’s journey to life in a way that felt real and visceral. I experienced their pain as my own and reveled in the moments of joy and hope this couple shared. L.B. Dunbar had me wholly enthralled and undeniably invested in Katie and Levi’s happily ever after. While there were plenty of sweet and sexy moments in this story, The History in Us wasn’t afraid to pull any punches. The storyline definitely dealt with some painful realities and ugly truths, delivering a good dose of angst alongside the romance. Balancing out the whole thing was some much needed laughter and levity in the form of the lovable and fun secondary characters. I can only hope we’ll be seeing more of them in the future. L.B. Dunbar definitely has another hit on her hands with this contemporary romance. Smart, heartfelt, and overflowing with genuine emotion, The History in Us is an utterly unforgettable read.
May 30, 2017
History is an understatement when it comes to childhood acquaintances Levi and Katie. Both from small town Elk Rapids, Michigan their journey doesn’t just cross paths but collides together in an inseparable weave tugging our heart strings along the way.
Where do I begin with this story? Katie Carter has held my heart since she was a little girl when I first read her characters in Sound Advice, a part of The Sensations Series. Now, you don’t have to read this series to meet and learn about Katie Carter. Dunbar pretty much reminds you of who Katie is from the get go and this is your chance to see her as an adult. However, if you love a great story, one click away because Dunbar has some absolutely fabulous books!
Katie is super woman. Her strength astounds me. Having been a child who suffered through pain, her positive outlook and willingness to help others makes her a character I could root for without hesitation. Katie’s childhood crush, Levi is anything but simple. A veteran who lost his leg to service, Levi Walker has issues to say the least. Recently left as a single dad, Levi spends a lot of this book getting his head on straight. Which at times I found utterly frustrating, however at the same time could completely understand. It was Katie’s unconditional love of this broken man and his wonderful son that kept me reading along.
Although I really liked where this story was leading, The History in Us didn’t really grab hold of me and make me want to read the book cover to cover absorbing every single word. It really did take me a bit to latch onto this story. All the components to an excellent story were there- romance, touch of angst, sweet and sexy scenes, however it took me until about 50% of the way in to really get invested. Overall, I still enjoyed seeing Katie Carter grow up and her story evolve to one filled with a fairytale of love.
Where do I begin with this story? Katie Carter has held my heart since she was a little girl when I first read her characters in Sound Advice, a part of The Sensations Series. Now, you don’t have to read this series to meet and learn about Katie Carter. Dunbar pretty much reminds you of who Katie is from the get go and this is your chance to see her as an adult. However, if you love a great story, one click away because Dunbar has some absolutely fabulous books!
Katie is super woman. Her strength astounds me. Having been a child who suffered through pain, her positive outlook and willingness to help others makes her a character I could root for without hesitation. Katie’s childhood crush, Levi is anything but simple. A veteran who lost his leg to service, Levi Walker has issues to say the least. Recently left as a single dad, Levi spends a lot of this book getting his head on straight. Which at times I found utterly frustrating, however at the same time could completely understand. It was Katie’s unconditional love of this broken man and his wonderful son that kept me reading along.
Although I really liked where this story was leading, The History in Us didn’t really grab hold of me and make me want to read the book cover to cover absorbing every single word. It really did take me a bit to latch onto this story. All the components to an excellent story were there- romance, touch of angst, sweet and sexy scenes, however it took me until about 50% of the way in to really get invested. Overall, I still enjoyed seeing Katie Carter grow up and her story evolve to one filled with a fairytale of love.
June 5, 2017
Lost in history
I found myself getting lost in the words that came together to build such a great story. The title was perfect. I had hoped to see these two characters lives intertwine together down the road.
Katie had wrapped her hands around my heart in Sound advice (if you haven't read it you need too) and then Levi came around. Granted he was not a major character in the story but for me his character drew me in. Something about him that just took root and let me know I wanted to know more about him and where life would take him.
The writer did not dissappoint. I loved the subtle hints of how their paths interlocked through out childhood. Some surprises that just had me in awe. Amazing play in words, scenery, and connections through out time. Their bond that was there even when both where unaware. Sometimes we forget that we have more in common with one another than we expect when we connect with the right people. This story had an amazing storyline with subtle undertones of connections of not just true love but friendships.
You know you love a book when you don't just find yourself engrossed with the words, but also find yourself talking out loud to the characters. Wanting them to heed your advise. Or gasping in shock, betrayal, and passion. Witnessing every scene that played out as if it was happening right in front of you as a theater play. This story met all my expectations and more. Worth the wait and anticipation of whether or not it would be written. I still find myself seeing these words play out as I close my eyes after reading it. Levi was more than I expected, and Katie grew up to be an amazing hero.
I found myself getting lost in the words that came together to build such a great story. The title was perfect. I had hoped to see these two characters lives intertwine together down the road.
Katie had wrapped her hands around my heart in Sound advice (if you haven't read it you need too) and then Levi came around. Granted he was not a major character in the story but for me his character drew me in. Something about him that just took root and let me know I wanted to know more about him and where life would take him.
The writer did not dissappoint. I loved the subtle hints of how their paths interlocked through out childhood. Some surprises that just had me in awe. Amazing play in words, scenery, and connections through out time. Their bond that was there even when both where unaware. Sometimes we forget that we have more in common with one another than we expect when we connect with the right people. This story had an amazing storyline with subtle undertones of connections of not just true love but friendships.
You know you love a book when you don't just find yourself engrossed with the words, but also find yourself talking out loud to the characters. Wanting them to heed your advise. Or gasping in shock, betrayal, and passion. Witnessing every scene that played out as if it was happening right in front of you as a theater play. This story met all my expectations and more. Worth the wait and anticipation of whether or not it would be written. I still find myself seeing these words play out as I close my eyes after reading it. Levi was more than I expected, and Katie grew up to be an amazing hero.
May 31, 2017
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I received this book from the author for an honest review.
*Sigh* Oh the feels…the giant, huge, extra fluffy feels of this book. I will say one of my favorite things about this author is her ability to make you FEEL everything.
Now this book is about characters from her Sensation Collections but you don’t need to read it to understand the story at all….and TBH I hope we will get more from these characters and the side characters because come one Grant and Penelope need stories!!
Katie, we met and fell in love with her in parents HEA story. She is the little girl who no one thought would speak until Emily got it out of her. Well Katie is all grown up and has loved a town bad boy all her life. A few kisses from their youth had has a major impact on both her and Levi.
Levi has a terrible life in the small town that he and Katie grew up in so as soon as he could…boom he was gone but he never forgot the dreamy younger girl who had all this faith in HIM when no one else did.
When the two meet by chance in college, they are both stunned and wondering if the other remembers them but are both to scared to say…hey is that YOU?
They have a lot to over-come with his abandonment issues, being a single father, the return of baby momma and the occasional need to over drink alcohol to dull the ache of war. But the one thing I love abut Katie is the strength she draws from blood family or hand-picked “family”. These two climb many a mountain and deal with many issues but find that love can prevail if you just stand strong.
www.Twinsietalk.com
www.Facebook.com/Twinsietalk
www.Twitter.com/Twinsietalk
www.Tsu.co/Twinsietalk
Newsletter : http://eepurl.com/brwkPv
Amazon link http://amzn.to/2qAZ3Ab
I received this book from the author for an honest review.
*Sigh* Oh the feels…the giant, huge, extra fluffy feels of this book. I will say one of my favorite things about this author is her ability to make you FEEL everything.
Now this book is about characters from her Sensation Collections but you don’t need to read it to understand the story at all….and TBH I hope we will get more from these characters and the side characters because come one Grant and Penelope need stories!!
Katie, we met and fell in love with her in parents HEA story. She is the little girl who no one thought would speak until Emily got it out of her. Well Katie is all grown up and has loved a town bad boy all her life. A few kisses from their youth had has a major impact on both her and Levi.
Levi has a terrible life in the small town that he and Katie grew up in so as soon as he could…boom he was gone but he never forgot the dreamy younger girl who had all this faith in HIM when no one else did.
When the two meet by chance in college, they are both stunned and wondering if the other remembers them but are both to scared to say…hey is that YOU?
They have a lot to over-come with his abandonment issues, being a single father, the return of baby momma and the occasional need to over drink alcohol to dull the ache of war. But the one thing I love abut Katie is the strength she draws from blood family or hand-picked “family”. These two climb many a mountain and deal with many issues but find that love can prevail if you just stand strong.
June 12, 2017
4.5 stars
The History in Us is a beautiful, touching and thought-provoking second chance love story which also features topics such as PTSD, abandonement issues, chasing your dreams and finding your destiny. It's definitely a book that will not leave you unaffected. I love a good story where the bookish heroine saves the buff ex-military hero and is ultimately saved by him. LB Dunbar is a talented and versatile author. She knows how to elicit emotions from her readers and to make them invested in her chacters and their struggles.
Levi Walker and Katie Carter's paths have crossed each other many times in the past. They both grew up in the same small city. Levi was 6 years older than Katie and was a dear friend of her family. Then he joined the military and never came back to Elk Rapids. When they meet again years later at a history class at the university they hardly recognize each other. Katie has never forgotten the sweet boy who gave her the best kiss of her life. She was waiting for him to return and become her hero but in front of her is now a broken man with a lost soul. Can Katie breathe life and love into him again? Can she show Levi that they were always meant to be each others forever?
Katie is a wonderful and very admirable heroine. I liked absolutely everything about her - especially that she loved Levi not because he was a hero, but because he was flawed. Although being a shy introvert and soft-spoken person, she was resillient and capable. Katie has a soft heart and was an understanding and supportive girlfriend to Levi. I adored her interactions with AJ and the way she showered him in affection and love - something he never got from his mother.
Levi is a brooding hero with a troubled past. He went through hell - first in his childhood and then again in military. He is not only wearing scars on his body but also emotional ones that need far more healing. He still has panic attacs and feels survivor's guilt. On top of that he has to deal with being a single father to a baby with a hearing impairment. His saving grace was Katie who shone light on his and AJ's lives with her kindness. Despite his own problems he was a caring parent.
I recommend this book from the bottom of my heart. It's a captivating story that will make you cry but leave you with a happy and satisfied smile on your face.
The History in Us is a beautiful, touching and thought-provoking second chance love story which also features topics such as PTSD, abandonement issues, chasing your dreams and finding your destiny. It's definitely a book that will not leave you unaffected. I love a good story where the bookish heroine saves the buff ex-military hero and is ultimately saved by him. LB Dunbar is a talented and versatile author. She knows how to elicit emotions from her readers and to make them invested in her chacters and their struggles.
Levi Walker and Katie Carter's paths have crossed each other many times in the past. They both grew up in the same small city. Levi was 6 years older than Katie and was a dear friend of her family. Then he joined the military and never came back to Elk Rapids. When they meet again years later at a history class at the university they hardly recognize each other. Katie has never forgotten the sweet boy who gave her the best kiss of her life. She was waiting for him to return and become her hero but in front of her is now a broken man with a lost soul. Can Katie breathe life and love into him again? Can she show Levi that they were always meant to be each others forever?
Katie is a wonderful and very admirable heroine. I liked absolutely everything about her - especially that she loved Levi not because he was a hero, but because he was flawed. Although being a shy introvert and soft-spoken person, she was resillient and capable. Katie has a soft heart and was an understanding and supportive girlfriend to Levi. I adored her interactions with AJ and the way she showered him in affection and love - something he never got from his mother.
Levi is a brooding hero with a troubled past. He went through hell - first in his childhood and then again in military. He is not only wearing scars on his body but also emotional ones that need far more healing. He still has panic attacs and feels survivor's guilt. On top of that he has to deal with being a single father to a baby with a hearing impairment. His saving grace was Katie who shone light on his and AJ's lives with her kindness. Despite his own problems he was a caring parent.
I recommend this book from the bottom of my heart. It's a captivating story that will make you cry but leave you with a happy and satisfied smile on your face.
May 29, 2017
I have no words for this book! It is the most realistic book I have read in a long time ... "Will you be a hero?"
Levi and Katie shared a kiss when she was 13 and he was 19 ... the night before he left for the war. A second kiss when she was 17 and he was home to bury his father. Now she is 24, in a Chicago college and guess who is sitting behind her in a history class ... oh yeah, she remembers those chocolate eyes, but he doesn't seem to remember her. They become partners in a class project and she falls for him all over again.
If Levi wasn't broken before he left for Afghanistan ... then he certainly was when he returned. When a "friends with benefits" arrangement results in a pregnancy, he can`t let that life be extinguished when so many of his "brothers" didn't come home. But the mother of his child is no mother at all and takes off when A.J. is just a couple of months old. Now he has to juggle school, work and a baby by himself. But things change when he runs into Katie ... the girl he kissed all those years ago ... the girl he thought of when he was injured ... the girl with the big blue eyes he could never forget.
Levi and Katie are two lost souls who try to mend each other, but there are all kinds of obstacles in their way. Will they get the happily-ever-after Katie likes to write about or will they go on separate paths. This book make me laugh, cry and everything in between. This is an emotional read that I highly recommend. I sure hope that there are future books on Katie's roommates - Penelope and Tuck ... because there are definitely stories there!
I graciously received an ARC copy from the author in exchange for a honest review.
Levi and Katie shared a kiss when she was 13 and he was 19 ... the night before he left for the war. A second kiss when she was 17 and he was home to bury his father. Now she is 24, in a Chicago college and guess who is sitting behind her in a history class ... oh yeah, she remembers those chocolate eyes, but he doesn't seem to remember her. They become partners in a class project and she falls for him all over again.
If Levi wasn't broken before he left for Afghanistan ... then he certainly was when he returned. When a "friends with benefits" arrangement results in a pregnancy, he can`t let that life be extinguished when so many of his "brothers" didn't come home. But the mother of his child is no mother at all and takes off when A.J. is just a couple of months old. Now he has to juggle school, work and a baby by himself. But things change when he runs into Katie ... the girl he kissed all those years ago ... the girl he thought of when he was injured ... the girl with the big blue eyes he could never forget.
Levi and Katie are two lost souls who try to mend each other, but there are all kinds of obstacles in their way. Will they get the happily-ever-after Katie likes to write about or will they go on separate paths. This book make me laugh, cry and everything in between. This is an emotional read that I highly recommend. I sure hope that there are future books on Katie's roommates - Penelope and Tuck ... because there are definitely stories there!
I graciously received an ARC copy from the author in exchange for a honest review.
June 2, 2017
The History in Us, this is Katie Carter's book. That was all the information I needed to know I had to read this book. I have been dying to read this story since I first met her in the Sensations Collection and Mrs. Dunbar definitely did not disappoint. This book was everything: romance, angst, all the feels and so much more.
Katie has graduated college and decides to continue on to grad school. She is from a small town and pretty much keeps to herself. She prefers her books over people most of the time. Levi is a solider who has decided to go to college. They happen to be in the same history class. They both remember the other from years ago but they aren't sure if this is who is front of them now. Katie has always wanted a hero to save her but what she doesn't realize is that sometimes the princess can be involved in the saving process too. So how will this history lesson end?
This is such a great romance story. It has all the feels and pulled out every emotion possible. I was crying in several scenes: some happy tears and some sad tears. It is so worth the emotional roller coaster to get to that perfect ending. I absolutely love Mrs. Dunbar' writing style; she has a way with words that pulls me in from the first paragraph and doesn't let go until the last page. I highly recommend this story to everyone who likes romance stories.
Katie has graduated college and decides to continue on to grad school. She is from a small town and pretty much keeps to herself. She prefers her books over people most of the time. Levi is a solider who has decided to go to college. They happen to be in the same history class. They both remember the other from years ago but they aren't sure if this is who is front of them now. Katie has always wanted a hero to save her but what she doesn't realize is that sometimes the princess can be involved in the saving process too. So how will this history lesson end?
This is such a great romance story. It has all the feels and pulled out every emotion possible. I was crying in several scenes: some happy tears and some sad tears. It is so worth the emotional roller coaster to get to that perfect ending. I absolutely love Mrs. Dunbar' writing style; she has a way with words that pulls me in from the first paragraph and doesn't let go until the last page. I highly recommend this story to everyone who likes romance stories.
June 2, 2017
I received a free ARC of this book and am voluntarily writing an honest review!
This book is not one you just read.....it swallows you whole! Ms. Dunbar has the ability to create characters that are so real the reader feels like they are friends. Levi and Katie met years ago and it ended with a sweet kiss and a simple phrase "Are you a hero yet?" A second chance meeting years later in a different town leaves both of them remembering the past and hoping for a future. Levi is damaged....by his childhood, his military service. Katie is also damaged but in a different way. Katie and Levi are not as different from each other as they think they are. Ms. Dunbar made me fall in love with these characters as they struggled to become the people they wanted to be but never thought they could be. Raw, intense emotion....that's what these characters made me feel as I read their story. I found myself alternating between loving and hating these characters are their fears and flaws were revealed. I read this book in one sitting, staying up until 2am because I was unable to put it down. And once I finished reading it, it stayed with me. I highly recommend this book but make sure you have tissues close by when reading!
This book is not one you just read.....it swallows you whole! Ms. Dunbar has the ability to create characters that are so real the reader feels like they are friends. Levi and Katie met years ago and it ended with a sweet kiss and a simple phrase "Are you a hero yet?" A second chance meeting years later in a different town leaves both of them remembering the past and hoping for a future. Levi is damaged....by his childhood, his military service. Katie is also damaged but in a different way. Katie and Levi are not as different from each other as they think they are. Ms. Dunbar made me fall in love with these characters as they struggled to become the people they wanted to be but never thought they could be. Raw, intense emotion....that's what these characters made me feel as I read their story. I found myself alternating between loving and hating these characters are their fears and flaws were revealed. I read this book in one sitting, staying up until 2am because I was unable to put it down. And once I finished reading it, it stayed with me. I highly recommend this book but make sure you have tissues close by when reading!
May 31, 2017
ARC generously provided for review for CJ’s Book Corner
Everybody needs a hero and for Katie Carter, Levi Walker is it. But it’s been years since they have seen each other. So when they share a college class, will they remember the history they had? Both are adults and have pasts. Levi is discharged from the military and now a single father. He is still dealing with the affects of his time and the things he saw. Katie still sees the hero in him and needs to help him see that after all these years, he is the one for her.
LB Dunbar has a magical way of writing. The stories flow so easily and you can’t help but get caught up in the lives of these fictional characters. She can create story to let you experience every emotion the characters go through and feel along with them. She has nailed it with The History in Us! I tried to wait until summer break so I could sit and read it all at once but I couldn’t wait. I had to dive in and see what LB Dunbar had created now. Late nights and early morning reads made me fall in love with Katie, Levi, and baby AJ.
No secret I am a huge fan of LB Dunbar and her storytelling. Her writing style let’s you escape for awhile and feel like you are a part of the story. It’s because of this that I have and will continue to read every book she writes. Thank you LB Dunbar for this beautiful story!
Everybody needs a hero and for Katie Carter, Levi Walker is it. But it’s been years since they have seen each other. So when they share a college class, will they remember the history they had? Both are adults and have pasts. Levi is discharged from the military and now a single father. He is still dealing with the affects of his time and the things he saw. Katie still sees the hero in him and needs to help him see that after all these years, he is the one for her.
LB Dunbar has a magical way of writing. The stories flow so easily and you can’t help but get caught up in the lives of these fictional characters. She can create story to let you experience every emotion the characters go through and feel along with them. She has nailed it with The History in Us! I tried to wait until summer break so I could sit and read it all at once but I couldn’t wait. I had to dive in and see what LB Dunbar had created now. Late nights and early morning reads made me fall in love with Katie, Levi, and baby AJ.
No secret I am a huge fan of LB Dunbar and her storytelling. Her writing style let’s you escape for awhile and feel like you are a part of the story. It’s because of this that I have and will continue to read every book she writes. Thank you LB Dunbar for this beautiful story!
June 1, 2017
Complex is how I would describe the characters in The History of Us. Katie introduces herself to us by saying she is an observer by nature and quiet. Levi describes himself as the definition of "lost soul" in Wikipedia. Katie believes in fairy tales and met the boy she wanted to star as the hero of her own fairy tale at a very young age and never forgot him. As for Levi, it is a vision of Katie asking "Are you a hero yet?" that stay with him during his dark hours while serving two tours of duty.
Both Katie and Levi have damaged souls having been deserted by a parent. This common thread in their history reveals the difference in they way they deal -- Katie resorts to silence and then the mystical world of fairy tales, Levi runs away to war. It is an emotional ride for the reader as we watch them come together again by chance and then start to actually build their own fairy tale.
I will never read or say the words "I'm fine." without thinking of this book because they are in Levi's opinion "two of the worst words combined in the English language....." and I think I totally agree with him. The History of Us is filled with nuggets just like that one, and when you discover each gem you know you are being rewarded for reading a wonderful book.
I highly recommend this book.
Both Katie and Levi have damaged souls having been deserted by a parent. This common thread in their history reveals the difference in they way they deal -- Katie resorts to silence and then the mystical world of fairy tales, Levi runs away to war. It is an emotional ride for the reader as we watch them come together again by chance and then start to actually build their own fairy tale.
I will never read or say the words "I'm fine." without thinking of this book because they are in Levi's opinion "two of the worst words combined in the English language....." and I think I totally agree with him. The History of Us is filled with nuggets just like that one, and when you discover each gem you know you are being rewarded for reading a wonderful book.
I highly recommend this book.
June 5, 2017
"The History in Us" is a deep, intensely dramatic romance. Levi, Hero and Katie. the Heroine are extremely sympathetic characters suffering abuse and abandonment as children. They have an intricate history together going diverging and uniting throughout the years since she was six years-old. Levi comes from a rough family, his mother leaving when he was young. His father physically abused him and his brothers and was the notorious town drunk. Levi's family's name is synonymous with Trouble in the small town of Elk Ridge. He escaped, enlisting in the military when he was nineteen. Katie's mother was mentally and physically abusive and leaving her when she was two years-old. She stopped speaking until she was six years-old. Katie has always been the quintessential responsible good girl even now as an adult.
Levi was Katie's first kiss. Her uncle, was his basketball coach and was like a surrogate father to him. At his Going Away party Levi drank a little too much bumping into Katie as she emerged from the bathroom. The spoke a little and he kissed her sparking something between them. Levi's friend broke them apart and informed Levi that Katie was thirteen years-old while he was nineteen. Katie's been smitten with Levi for years before that night, since the first time she ever saw him in fact. When she sees him years after that first kiss he's still in the military. Katie's seventeen years-old and asks if he's a hero yet. She tells him to stay safe. Stay alive. She's still waiting. Levi carries that memory with him through his every deployment and the worst day in his military career. And life. He thinks of his promises to Katie.
"The History in Us" has a compelling storyline yet the pace drags in places. I believe the culprit is the constant back and forth of the main characters relationship. The characters are well fleshed out and multi-faceted but are also lacking. Levi's a damaged hero but comes across as weak. Katie lacks confidence yet she's unwittingly a strong foundation. They undergo lots of emotional growth saving them. There're intriguing elements in the book. Integral characters whose lives interconnect with each other and the main characters. A set of cryptic letters mysteriously appear at crucial times. Conversely a couple of events feel unnecessary. There's romance yet it's the substance, emotion, and weight of the story that are the stars of this book. There might be an opening for a follow-up book or two which intrigues me; I hope they come to fruition.
To read the entire review please visit: http://wp.me/p4XqxF-1Wg
This novel was provided, voluntarily read, and honestly reviewed
Levi was Katie's first kiss. Her uncle, was his basketball coach and was like a surrogate father to him. At his Going Away party Levi drank a little too much bumping into Katie as she emerged from the bathroom. The spoke a little and he kissed her sparking something between them. Levi's friend broke them apart and informed Levi that Katie was thirteen years-old while he was nineteen. Katie's been smitten with Levi for years before that night, since the first time she ever saw him in fact. When she sees him years after that first kiss he's still in the military. Katie's seventeen years-old and asks if he's a hero yet. She tells him to stay safe. Stay alive. She's still waiting. Levi carries that memory with him through his every deployment and the worst day in his military career. And life. He thinks of his promises to Katie.
"The History in Us" has a compelling storyline yet the pace drags in places. I believe the culprit is the constant back and forth of the main characters relationship. The characters are well fleshed out and multi-faceted but are also lacking. Levi's a damaged hero but comes across as weak. Katie lacks confidence yet she's unwittingly a strong foundation. They undergo lots of emotional growth saving them. There're intriguing elements in the book. Integral characters whose lives interconnect with each other and the main characters. A set of cryptic letters mysteriously appear at crucial times. Conversely a couple of events feel unnecessary. There's romance yet it's the substance, emotion, and weight of the story that are the stars of this book. There might be an opening for a follow-up book or two which intrigues me; I hope they come to fruition.
To read the entire review please visit: http://wp.me/p4XqxF-1Wg
This novel was provided, voluntarily read, and honestly reviewed
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