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College Bound #3
The Sound of Your Heart
***Can be read as a standalone***
Julie Prescott is the life of every party. She’s loud, witty, and uses her body and pretty face to get whatever she wants. She’s never had a problem hooking up with guys, or ditching them when they don’t live up to her standards. Julie has a list of exes a mile long and a reputation to match, but she’s looking for more than just a degree in college. She’s looking for Mr. Perfect.
Ben Sutherland is the enigmatic bassist of a popular local band. Born blind, Ben depends on his other senses to help him understand the world around him on a deeper level. His sultry voice and musical talent might make it impossible for him to go unnoticed on campus, but Ben isn’t looking for fame or groupies. He’s looking to perfect his music.
Julie’s been lusting after Ben for months and when she finally meets him at a party, her confidence is shaken when she discovers she can’t use her physical beauty to charm him. Even though she's always relied on her looks, it’s her personality that wins Ben over and he’s determined to show her that she’s more than just a pretty face.
But falling in love is the easy part. Family lies, a questionable reputation, and the chance of a lifetime threaten to tear Ben and Julie apart. Can they trust the futures they’ve chosen or will they take the biggest risk of all and listen to the sound of their own hearts?
Julie Prescott is the life of every party. She’s loud, witty, and uses her body and pretty face to get whatever she wants. She’s never had a problem hooking up with guys, or ditching them when they don’t live up to her standards. Julie has a list of exes a mile long and a reputation to match, but she’s looking for more than just a degree in college. She’s looking for Mr. Perfect.
Ben Sutherland is the enigmatic bassist of a popular local band. Born blind, Ben depends on his other senses to help him understand the world around him on a deeper level. His sultry voice and musical talent might make it impossible for him to go unnoticed on campus, but Ben isn’t looking for fame or groupies. He’s looking to perfect his music.
Julie’s been lusting after Ben for months and when she finally meets him at a party, her confidence is shaken when she discovers she can’t use her physical beauty to charm him. Even though she's always relied on her looks, it’s her personality that wins Ben over and he’s determined to show her that she’s more than just a pretty face.
But falling in love is the easy part. Family lies, a questionable reputation, and the chance of a lifetime threaten to tear Ben and Julie apart. Can they trust the futures they’ve chosen or will they take the biggest risk of all and listen to the sound of their own hearts?
330 pages, Paperback
First published July 13, 2018
46 people are currently reading
278 people want to read
About the author
Laura Ward
10 books605 followersLaura Ward lives in Maryland with her loud and very loving three children and husband. She married her college sweetheart and is endlessly grateful for the support he has given her through all their years together, and especially toward her goal of writing books. When not picking up toy trucks, driving to lacrosse practice, or checking spelling homework, Laura is writing or reading romance novels. Her debut novel, NOT YET, is a Top 100 Amazon Bestseller.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 44 reviews
January 12, 2023
Wow. I have so many feels. I read this in 24 hours. I am tired and my face looks awful because I was up most of the night crying. I tried twice to fall asleep and I couldn't. I can't remember the last time a book did that to me. I don't know what to read next. I can't believe it's over.
This book was SO SO SOOOO good. Ben is so sexy. Everyone needs a Ben. Right now. Everything about him draws you in and is so lovable. Jules is not your typical 25 year old perfect virgin. She's a real person with real baggage and it makes her so relatable. It feels so much more like a real love story than a fantasy perfect one you would only find on the shelves.
I loved this book. The series was great but this was the best book in the bunch by far. I might have to read it again. I don't know what to do with myself now.
Did i say this was good? It was so good. Read it, right now.
This book was SO SO SOOOO good. Ben is so sexy. Everyone needs a Ben. Right now. Everything about him draws you in and is so lovable. Jules is not your typical 25 year old perfect virgin. She's a real person with real baggage and it makes her so relatable. It feels so much more like a real love story than a fantasy perfect one you would only find on the shelves.
I loved this book. The series was great but this was the best book in the bunch by far. I might have to read it again. I don't know what to do with myself now.
Did i say this was good? It was so good. Read it, right now.
July 12, 2018
This is the final installment in a trilogy. I really enjoyed the first two books in this trilogy, and this one was no different. I absolutely loved Ben for Julie. He is exactly what she needed when she needed it. He is so openhearted and kind and courageous. I loved Julie, too. She is sassy and full of snark. If you like New Adult, I highly recommend this trilogy.
Reviewed by: Clare M.
Reviewed by: Clare M.
February 17, 2022
I was glad to find a romance with a blind hero who is fully adjusted and capable, not an injury/recovery story or yet another beauty and the beast retelling. Ben was an appealing character. The chapters from his POV were mostly well done. There were some secondary characters with disabilities as well, Julie's friend Darren who has cerebral palsy and two other friends with Down syndrome. I give the book some credit for positive disability representation, but it's just so superficial. There's no reality behind any of their experiences. I really doubt the authors have ever met or even consulted with anyone with these disabilities.
The plot as a whole was meh, with some very annoying miscommunication. There are also two scenes of sexual assault which were disturbing to read and for how they were used to motivate the plot. The constant slut-shaming of Julie was hard to take. Despite how much she stands up for herself, she never questions the toxic assumptions behind slut-shaming.
The plot as a whole was meh, with some very annoying miscommunication. There are also two scenes of sexual assault which were disturbing to read and for how they were used to motivate the plot. The constant slut-shaming of Julie was hard to take. Despite how much she stands up for herself, she never questions the toxic assumptions behind slut-shaming.
July 14, 2018
4.5 stars
I've beem a fan of Laura Ward's but new to this series, Christine Manzari is a new author for me though. Right away the start is interesting cause you know it shaped Julie. Being taught her looks is the most important asset and not to give away her feelings. When Julie meets Ben though she has all her insecurities since she can't win him with her outer shell. She's not convinced she has the inner beauty enough to win him over. It'll be something interesting to see if he's the one to make her see more of herself.
This story is about self love, it's not easy to appreciate your own flaws and Julie has not had an easy growing up. Her influences weren't great she doubts herself. Ben has his own shortcomings and it's not easy but he does his best to be all he can. The double standard for Julie dating around and hooking up being slut shamed seems to happen a lot. Thankfully Julie has her friend Darren to make her see sense. Maybe she'll find her guy if she let herself and Ben might be the one who sees who she really is.
Julie has to fight through insecurity, family issues and her reputation to truly let go. Ben shows her that she is more and deserves a lot better. Along with some misunderstandings and more serious issues along the way they together they play a different song. Oh the feels they go through get there and yes the intimacy they shared is steamy. I'm sad to just have discovered this series but glad I can backtrack.
Sound of my heart is a beautiful new adult story with tons of heart and emotions. From the dark you can emerge with the help of others. This writing flows seamlessly even with two authors very well done.
*** ARC provided for an honest review ***
I've beem a fan of Laura Ward's but new to this series, Christine Manzari is a new author for me though. Right away the start is interesting cause you know it shaped Julie. Being taught her looks is the most important asset and not to give away her feelings. When Julie meets Ben though she has all her insecurities since she can't win him with her outer shell. She's not convinced she has the inner beauty enough to win him over. It'll be something interesting to see if he's the one to make her see more of herself.
This story is about self love, it's not easy to appreciate your own flaws and Julie has not had an easy growing up. Her influences weren't great she doubts herself. Ben has his own shortcomings and it's not easy but he does his best to be all he can. The double standard for Julie dating around and hooking up being slut shamed seems to happen a lot. Thankfully Julie has her friend Darren to make her see sense. Maybe she'll find her guy if she let herself and Ben might be the one who sees who she really is.
Julie has to fight through insecurity, family issues and her reputation to truly let go. Ben shows her that she is more and deserves a lot better. Along with some misunderstandings and more serious issues along the way they together they play a different song. Oh the feels they go through get there and yes the intimacy they shared is steamy. I'm sad to just have discovered this series but glad I can backtrack.
Sound of my heart is a beautiful new adult story with tons of heart and emotions. From the dark you can emerge with the help of others. This writing flows seamlessly even with two authors very well done.
*** ARC provided for an honest review ***
July 4, 2018
I devoured this book like it was the last piece of cake at a wedding reception. ALL. The. Feels. Julie has been dealt a difficult hand in life, but when life hands you lemons make margaritas and party on! As long as your heart is never on the line, anything goes. At least, that's what she thinks until a chance encounter with the sexy bass player of her favorite band changes the tune she's always danced to. Ben may be visually impaired, but he is far from blind. He sees the real Julie that she tries so hard to hide behind sarcasm and sex appeal, and despite her self-doubts he is determined to bring the real Jules out of the darkness and into the light. She is his light, and the song in his heart. If only he can make her see that too.
July 5, 2018
What a amazing end to a beautiful series. Yes each book is a standalone but there all tied together. This is Jules story. Jules is a character she made me laugh at loud with her loud attitude. Plus how strong Jules was and amazing person and didn’t even know it. Then I cried at times because I felt the pain Jules was feeling and understood her emotions. Ben what a amazing guy nothing kept him from living his life and so strong and determined I fell in love with him right away. Actually I fell in love with all the characters from this series that I’m sad there stories have ended but it was breathtakingly beautiful. 5/5 stars
July 10, 2018
I have to admit that I am a little sad right now to see this series end. I can only hope that the authors consider stories for all of the amazing secondary characters that we've met along the way because I am not going to be able to let everyone go now. I am in love with this series. Jules & Ben's story was no different.
Read that blurb - What an interesting concept for a romance novel. You have the ultimate pretty, party girl who relies on all the flirting and visual cues to get the guy and she can't do that with Ben. And her life up until now hasn't really allowed her to build the confidence she needs to rely on other things. I loved being in her head when this realization set in and how she would deal with that.
Let's talk about Ben.. He is one of the swooniest guys that I've read in a book. The things he says... Gah, I want to be the lucky girl who gets him. I have so many highlights of his words in my kindle.
And when you think that this is enough of a plot for a story, there is MORE! So many things going on that my heart is so completely full right now. Thanks for such an amazing bunch of books. <3
Read that blurb - What an interesting concept for a romance novel. You have the ultimate pretty, party girl who relies on all the flirting and visual cues to get the guy and she can't do that with Ben. And her life up until now hasn't really allowed her to build the confidence she needs to rely on other things. I loved being in her head when this realization set in and how she would deal with that.
Let's talk about Ben.. He is one of the swooniest guys that I've read in a book. The things he says... Gah, I want to be the lucky girl who gets him. I have so many highlights of his words in my kindle.
And when you think that this is enough of a plot for a story, there is MORE! So many things going on that my heart is so completely full right now. Thanks for such an amazing bunch of books. <3
June 27, 2018
I thoroughly enjoyed this book. It was an easy read and followed the relationship of a young girl, Julie who had not had the best upbringing in life with a blind band member Ben. Julie was brought up in a single parent family and told that she was adopted and that her father had run off and didn't want to know her. Her mother would take the beautiful Julie to bars in a bid to attract men. As a result at College Julie had a reputation for sleeping with many guys. When Julie meets Ben at a party one night, and falls for him, she realises that for once she cannot rely on her beauty to capture him, but she thinks that her reputation will ruin her chances. Ben however doesn't care about her reputation and refuses to listen to his friends and his brother who all tell him that Julie will break his heart. As the couple become close and it looks like nothing could break them up, Ben's band gets the big break they have been working so hard for, and Julie discovers that her mother has been lying to her all her life. Julie knows she has to let Ben go, but Ben doesn't want to leave her. A reluctant Ben goes, promising Julie this will not break them up. However, one night while Ben is away events for Julie take a nasty turn. How will Ben react when he finds out? Will the truth behind that night ever come out? Can Julie ever leave her past behind her? Will Julie & Ben be able to survive?
August 7, 2018
*4.2 stars*
This is the last installment in the College Bound trilogy which I really liked as Julie was a character I wanted to explore more and find out what happened in her past that shaped her to be the person she is today. I didn't love it as much as Alexis & Liam's story but I enjoyed it nonetheless!
This is the last installment in the College Bound trilogy which I really liked as Julie was a character I wanted to explore more and find out what happened in her past that shaped her to be the person she is today. I didn't love it as much as Alexis & Liam's story but I enjoyed it nonetheless!
July 19, 2018
I'm so honored to have had the opportunity to write this series with Laura. I had such a good time exploring Ben and Julie's story.
July 29, 2018
There's only one word to sum up this entire book...... BEN. OMG. Best hero evah!!!!
July 27, 2018
Loved it!
June 28, 2018
I loved Jules and Ben’s story! I was sucked in from the start and couldn’t turn the pages fast enough. Laura and Christine collaborated beautifully once again and brought so many feelings to surface. Don’t pass this one up. It’s a must read!! Prepare yourselves this has all the feels!!
July 13, 2018
I found this book an engaging read about college life. It covered the importance of taking a chance, being yourself, believing in yourself and others, and the power of love. It can be read as a standalone novel, but is part of a series.
“Why don't you take a chance? You could be surprised what might happen if you let someone truly see you.”
I thoroughly enjoyed reading this book. We follow Julie, life of the party sorority girl; and Ben, blind bass musician. They each have reputations, baggage, and issues that complicate their life and love, but work through the lies and frustrations and strife to become better people and partners.
Julie is at first glace an airheaded, stereotypical sorority girl. But she's given such well developed backstory for her actions and current personality that she's easy to like and have your heart ache for her frustrations. Ben is a blind musician, working hard to write his music and persevere in a world far from perfect. I loved how at first in reading the book his blindness doesn't even come up and Julie has no clue! I loved how they interacted. You rooted for Ben to have less struggles; and for Julie to find love and acceptance. You rooted for all the side characters, and how they changed the main characters. So well done!
“Holy hell. He had dimples. And tattoos. Lots of tattoos that I wanted to see up close.”
“...listening to her voice was like an audible blowjob and she smelled like a fucking pina colada and that made me want to devour her.”
Julie had a crush on Ben for a while before making her move, only to be met with some initial out of context resistance. But once they got things straightened out, those two! Kisses to melt my Kindle. But Ben kept it slow and burning for a while instead of rushing things to make it last.
Fast paced and well written, I devoured this book. It was a poignant story about these college students, but also a reminder for all the readers to make sure we're not being a pretend version of ourselves, and being considerate of others. I loved the bold and, brash Julie and the way the author gave her the most witty and facetious lines! It made the book so fun to read!
This was a great book that sums up so many of the challenges of so many college students and their growth, but also the special needs community. It drew my emotions out so deeply for the characters and their situations. I can't wait to read more by this author.
Favorite quotes:
“I think you need to examine your definition of perfection. If you can stop and accept yourself, flaws and all, you might be able to accept a guy who has a few too.”
“Everything I believed about myself was being challenged.”
Star Ratings:
Plot = 5/5 Characters = 5/5 Heat = 5/5 Writing Style = 5/5 Overall Rating = 5/5
“Why don't you take a chance? You could be surprised what might happen if you let someone truly see you.”
I thoroughly enjoyed reading this book. We follow Julie, life of the party sorority girl; and Ben, blind bass musician. They each have reputations, baggage, and issues that complicate their life and love, but work through the lies and frustrations and strife to become better people and partners.
Julie is at first glace an airheaded, stereotypical sorority girl. But she's given such well developed backstory for her actions and current personality that she's easy to like and have your heart ache for her frustrations. Ben is a blind musician, working hard to write his music and persevere in a world far from perfect. I loved how at first in reading the book his blindness doesn't even come up and Julie has no clue! I loved how they interacted. You rooted for Ben to have less struggles; and for Julie to find love and acceptance. You rooted for all the side characters, and how they changed the main characters. So well done!
“Holy hell. He had dimples. And tattoos. Lots of tattoos that I wanted to see up close.”
“...listening to her voice was like an audible blowjob and she smelled like a fucking pina colada and that made me want to devour her.”
Julie had a crush on Ben for a while before making her move, only to be met with some initial out of context resistance. But once they got things straightened out, those two! Kisses to melt my Kindle. But Ben kept it slow and burning for a while instead of rushing things to make it last.
Fast paced and well written, I devoured this book. It was a poignant story about these college students, but also a reminder for all the readers to make sure we're not being a pretend version of ourselves, and being considerate of others. I loved the bold and, brash Julie and the way the author gave her the most witty and facetious lines! It made the book so fun to read!
This was a great book that sums up so many of the challenges of so many college students and their growth, but also the special needs community. It drew my emotions out so deeply for the characters and their situations. I can't wait to read more by this author.
Favorite quotes:
“I think you need to examine your definition of perfection. If you can stop and accept yourself, flaws and all, you might be able to accept a guy who has a few too.”
“Everything I believed about myself was being challenged.”
Star Ratings:
Plot = 5/5 Characters = 5/5 Heat = 5/5 Writing Style = 5/5 Overall Rating = 5/5
August 15, 2018
This book!!!!!!
This was my first read by these authors. And I was blown away. I have no words for all the feels this book instilled in me. It was so beautifully written. I'm not going to recap the book. I'm not going to give anything away. All I'm going to say is that this is definitely a MUST read. You are missing out if you pass this story up. I promise it is worth your time.
This was my first read by these authors. And I was blown away. I have no words for all the feels this book instilled in me. It was so beautifully written. I'm not going to recap the book. I'm not going to give anything away. All I'm going to say is that this is definitely a MUST read. You are missing out if you pass this story up. I promise it is worth your time.
July 13, 2018
Julie enjoys parties and those in attendance enjoy her. She's loud, witty, and knows how to have fun. What she also knows how to do is use her looks to get what she wants. Guys come and go, that's how she views it because none have ever met her standards. Her list of exes is long, but she has a purpose. She's looking for the one, her Mr. Perfect, while working toward her degree. But what happens when the man she's been eyeing isn't susceptible to her usual tricks? How can she use her appearance to get what she wants, or even get a chance with him, when he can't see her? Her whole life, starting at a young age, her mom taught her looks were important and without a father in her life, she had no one else to turn to.
Ben is the bassist of a local band gaining in popularity. His voice and talent have garnered him a lot of attention, but he isn't interested in finding fame or the usual "perks" of his position. Ben is all about the music. Being born blind, Ben's remaining senses have adapted, strengthened, and he feels on a level others don't or can't.
When Julie finally gets to meet Ben, she's so excited, knowing this is her chance, but that changes when she realizes her looks and body aren't going to do anything for her. She has to truly be herself, but does she even know who that is anymore?
Ben falls for Julie, the person she is inside, and is determined to show her how special she truly is, that she doesn't have to rely on her beauty. She's more than that, better than that. But how can he get her to accept the opposite of what she's always believed, how she's lived for so long?
It isn't long before Ben and Julie fall for one another, but it's staying that way that's difficult as one obstacle after another seems intent on destroying that love.
Can Ben's strength in being true to himself, in not letting his disability stop him from living, show Julie she has the same within her? What happens when Ben's family and friends warn him about Julie, believing she'll break his heart? How will Julie react when things she's always been told prove to be lies? Will she stand in the way of Ben's band achieving their goals? Can Ben convince her of his love and that he isn't going anywhere? When Ben is away and things happen concerning Julie, will the truth ever come out about what happened? Will Ben ever know? Is a HEA possible?
One-click now and follow along as two people discover a forever love that everyone seems determined to ruin. I liked that Ben, being blind since birth, was the one that taught Julie to truly "see" herself as more than a pretty face. To have confidence in other aspects of her life. He was all in where she was concerned, knowing she was special, that she was the one, and Julie loved him with her whole heart which means, in her mind, she needed to let him go, to let him follow his path. She refused to hold him back, but Ben knew he'd only ever be happy with her by his side.- By Elizabeth
Ben is the bassist of a local band gaining in popularity. His voice and talent have garnered him a lot of attention, but he isn't interested in finding fame or the usual "perks" of his position. Ben is all about the music. Being born blind, Ben's remaining senses have adapted, strengthened, and he feels on a level others don't or can't.
When Julie finally gets to meet Ben, she's so excited, knowing this is her chance, but that changes when she realizes her looks and body aren't going to do anything for her. She has to truly be herself, but does she even know who that is anymore?
Ben falls for Julie, the person she is inside, and is determined to show her how special she truly is, that she doesn't have to rely on her beauty. She's more than that, better than that. But how can he get her to accept the opposite of what she's always believed, how she's lived for so long?
It isn't long before Ben and Julie fall for one another, but it's staying that way that's difficult as one obstacle after another seems intent on destroying that love.
Can Ben's strength in being true to himself, in not letting his disability stop him from living, show Julie she has the same within her? What happens when Ben's family and friends warn him about Julie, believing she'll break his heart? How will Julie react when things she's always been told prove to be lies? Will she stand in the way of Ben's band achieving their goals? Can Ben convince her of his love and that he isn't going anywhere? When Ben is away and things happen concerning Julie, will the truth ever come out about what happened? Will Ben ever know? Is a HEA possible?
One-click now and follow along as two people discover a forever love that everyone seems determined to ruin. I liked that Ben, being blind since birth, was the one that taught Julie to truly "see" herself as more than a pretty face. To have confidence in other aspects of her life. He was all in where she was concerned, knowing she was special, that she was the one, and Julie loved him with her whole heart which means, in her mind, she needed to let him go, to let him follow his path. She refused to hold him back, but Ben knew he'd only ever be happy with her by his side.- By Elizabeth
July 16, 2018
When I started reading this story I thought to myself, not another college, full of teenage drama kind of book. I was immediately rest assured. It was so far from that. It is a college story but with selfless characters. A 5 star perfection.
On the outside, Julie looks confident, sexy and she plays a part well. But underneath all that she’s an insecure and scared young woman. She likes to sleep around and word gets around about it too. She meets Ben the bassist in a music group. She had met her match and he sees her for what she really is underneath all that.
I devoured this story in close to one sitting, it’s that amazing. At first I wasn’t to partial to Julie but she came through big time. One of her best friends was in a wheelchair and she was very protective of him. She was part a buddy program with special needs adults. Just that itself screams a selfless and good person. She became rather quickly one of my favourite characters from all the books I’ve ever read. Ben had a physical challenge and never did he use that to his advantage. He was independent.
A beautifully written story with an AMAZING storyline that made me shed a few tears along the way. These are kinds of stories I love to read. People helping people out of the kindness of their hearts. These 2 authors nailed it.
This story can safely be read as a standalone . Told in a dual POV with an HEA. I strongly recommend this story.
July 12, 2018
The sound of your heart follows Julies story and I really enjoyed this story. I really liked the way that Julie found someone who is different to who is different to who she normally falls for. I liked the way that the two characters got to know each other and the way they got together. I also loved the way that the previous two books came into this story and we were able to find out what happen with the other couples in the series.
Julie, I found that I connected to a lot, especially with the insecurities that she had about herself throughout the book. I found that I really understood this character and a lot of the questions I had about her in the previous books were answered.
Ben was visually blind but that didn’t stop him from being able to see the real Julie. He was an incredible sweet guy that treated Julie really well. I really loved Ben and found that he was great for Julie.
The sound of your heart is about college student Julie, who is known as the life of the party. But then she meets the sexy bass player Ben who was born blind. Julie has had a crush on him for months and when she learns about his blindness her confidence takes a hit when she finds out she can’t rely on her physical beauty with Ben.
I really loved the way that the series all came together in this story and found that it was. A great addition to the series. I think that this was a great story and I recommend this story to any collage romance fan.
Julie, I found that I connected to a lot, especially with the insecurities that she had about herself throughout the book. I found that I really understood this character and a lot of the questions I had about her in the previous books were answered.
Ben was visually blind but that didn’t stop him from being able to see the real Julie. He was an incredible sweet guy that treated Julie really well. I really loved Ben and found that he was great for Julie.
The sound of your heart is about college student Julie, who is known as the life of the party. But then she meets the sexy bass player Ben who was born blind. Julie has had a crush on him for months and when she learns about his blindness her confidence takes a hit when she finds out she can’t rely on her physical beauty with Ben.
I really loved the way that the series all came together in this story and found that it was. A great addition to the series. I think that this was a great story and I recommend this story to any collage romance fan.
July 13, 2018
This was my first time reading these two authors and I was blown away! I never wanted this story to end, yes it was that good!! I even had a few tears that fell while reading it. While I didn't exactly connect to Jules in the beginning, that soon changed. Watching her change her views and actions especially after meeting Ben, was incredible. I loved how they portrayed Sarah, William, Deacon and Ben. Yes they had disabilities but thru the way the authors described them, they were just people with issues like everyone else. I so fell in love with this storyline and the characters.
Jules was raised a certain way unfortunately it wasn't healthy for her. Her mom is a piece of work, that's for sure. Jules learns so much in this book. How to love yourself for who you are, Know how special you are and especially how to love. She and Ben are so cute together! He shows her so much love and attention but also shows her how much she's valued. He also shows her a whole new way of feeling and passion. Despite the disability, these two have so much passion and chemistry together. Ben surprised me so many times in this book. I simply fell in love with him. He was kind, caring and stood up for what he wanted. He knew that despite Jules past, he still wanted her. She completed him. This was such a great story! I can't say enough about it!! So, So, So good!!!!!!!!!
Jules was raised a certain way unfortunately it wasn't healthy for her. Her mom is a piece of work, that's for sure. Jules learns so much in this book. How to love yourself for who you are, Know how special you are and especially how to love. She and Ben are so cute together! He shows her so much love and attention but also shows her how much she's valued. He also shows her a whole new way of feeling and passion. Despite the disability, these two have so much passion and chemistry together. Ben surprised me so many times in this book. I simply fell in love with him. He was kind, caring and stood up for what he wanted. He knew that despite Jules past, he still wanted her. She completed him. This was such a great story! I can't say enough about it!! So, So, So good!!!!!!!!!
July 16, 2018
I will start this review with the honest fact that I have read all of Laura Ward's and Christine Manzari's College Bound Series and loved each and every one of them. When I was given the opportunity to read The Sound of Your Heart I didn't hesitate a second, duh, no brainer, read it Kam. Well folks, another honest admission, I didn't just read it, I savored it.
How these two ladies co-write is seamless and incredible. The storyline in The Sound of Your Heart has a familiar ring if you have read any of their other books -- the triumph over a handicap because it isn't viewed as a handicap. Wow, blind since birth, can you imagine not having a reference to something as simple as color? Ben, our hero, hears color -- wow again. Julie, our heroine learns to put aside her focus on physical perfection so Ben can hear her heart. It is a story that should make each and every reader swoon at what can be learned with trust.
So, yes, I highly recommend this book. And, here's another honest fact - I think I become a better person after reading these authors' books. Thank you Laura and Christine.
How these two ladies co-write is seamless and incredible. The storyline in The Sound of Your Heart has a familiar ring if you have read any of their other books -- the triumph over a handicap because it isn't viewed as a handicap. Wow, blind since birth, can you imagine not having a reference to something as simple as color? Ben, our hero, hears color -- wow again. Julie, our heroine learns to put aside her focus on physical perfection so Ben can hear her heart. It is a story that should make each and every reader swoon at what can be learned with trust.
So, yes, I highly recommend this book. And, here's another honest fact - I think I become a better person after reading these authors' books. Thank you Laura and Christine.
September 21, 2018
Start was good. I haven’t read a book with a blind H before so it was a breath of fresh air. However, halfway in, the writing just became cheesy. The dialogues that were supposed to be touching just made me cringe most of the time. I was more curious about the h’s family drama than reading their intimate scenes. The first kiss had so much chemistry. But after that? The dialogue and just the way the scenes were written made me lose interest in them. I just didn’t feel anything while reading these supposedly romantic/heartwarming scenes. Hated the brother Nate. The Phil drama was totally unnecessary IMO. The ending was a bunch of clichés. This was my first book by this author and I think this will also be the last. Her writing style is just too corny for me. 🤷🏻♀️
Plot: 3
Writing: 2
Hero: 3
Heroine: 3
Chemistry: 2.5
Safe: Yes
HEA: Yes
OVERALL RATING : 3 STARS
Plot: 3
Writing: 2
Hero: 3
Heroine: 3
Chemistry: 2.5
Safe: Yes
HEA: Yes
OVERALL RATING : 3 STARS
June 11, 2019
Such great premises: blind boy meets party girl; how is she going to seduce him with her mind when she’s so used to rely on her looks?
The problem here is that he falls for her (for her voice) almost instantly so she doesn’t really have to work for it. He is the one who has to teach her patience so that she doesn’t get rid of him once they get physical.
And you know insta love is one of my least favourite trope in romance and again this was an issue for me.
Their love is too often told rather than shown.
The man plays the bass in a band and I would have loved music to be more developed! So many good ideas that were underdeveloped: the fact that she is seen as easy and shallow could have been tackled more smoothly and deeply.
Her best friend has cerebral palsy, and I loved the rep a lot.
So as a whole it was ok but not great either, even if it could have been.
The problem here is that he falls for her (for her voice) almost instantly so she doesn’t really have to work for it. He is the one who has to teach her patience so that she doesn’t get rid of him once they get physical.
And you know insta love is one of my least favourite trope in romance and again this was an issue for me.
Their love is too often told rather than shown.
The man plays the bass in a band and I would have loved music to be more developed! So many good ideas that were underdeveloped: the fact that she is seen as easy and shallow could have been tackled more smoothly and deeply.
Her best friend has cerebral palsy, and I loved the rep a lot.
So as a whole it was ok but not great either, even if it could have been.
July 13, 2018
Amount of sex 2.5 / 5
How explicit is the sex scenes 2.5 / 5
Story 5 / 5
Overall: 5 / 5
The Sound of Your Heart is the third book in the College Bound Series and an absolutely amazing story. This book can be read as a standalone romance, and it’s one that will stay with me for a long time! The characters are complex and so well developed. The storyline is captivating, and I was truly blown away by this intense and emotional book.
The second book in the series, The Color of Us, was one of my favorite books in 2016. When I saw The Sound of Your Heart, I clicked it without even reading the blurb. I just knew it was going to be fabulous, and it was. It was so much more.
One of my favorite books for 2018!
*Voluntarily Reviewed an Advanced Copy*
How explicit is the sex scenes 2.5 / 5
Story 5 / 5
Overall: 5 / 5
The Sound of Your Heart is the third book in the College Bound Series and an absolutely amazing story. This book can be read as a standalone romance, and it’s one that will stay with me for a long time! The characters are complex and so well developed. The storyline is captivating, and I was truly blown away by this intense and emotional book.
The second book in the series, The Color of Us, was one of my favorite books in 2016. When I saw The Sound of Your Heart, I clicked it without even reading the blurb. I just knew it was going to be fabulous, and it was. It was so much more.
One of my favorite books for 2018!
*Voluntarily Reviewed an Advanced Copy*
July 13, 2018
The heart sees the beauty no other part can see! Ashley @Whit Hot Reads
Ben has been blind his entire life and he brother has been his protector and the one who has taught him he can do anything in life. When his band gets a break that they can’t pass up will his heart be able to handle staying away from the one he loves.
Jules is college girl who uses her looks to find her way with men but when the one she wants cannot see her. Will she let her heart be enough and follow it to the one she loves
This is a Truly inspiring love story that shows disabilities and differences are not reasons to fall in love. Lessons to learned by anyone who reads this book.
Ben has been blind his entire life and he brother has been his protector and the one who has taught him he can do anything in life. When his band gets a break that they can’t pass up will his heart be able to handle staying away from the one he loves.
Jules is college girl who uses her looks to find her way with men but when the one she wants cannot see her. Will she let her heart be enough and follow it to the one she loves
This is a Truly inspiring love story that shows disabilities and differences are not reasons to fall in love. Lessons to learned by anyone who reads this book.
July 13, 2018
I received an ARC and here is my honest review:
I am so sad to see the end of this series, but what an ending it was! Laura Ward is an amazing author that pulls at all your emotions. The love the characters have for each other, the emotional heartstrings of loss, then the steamy sex scenes...these books are amazing!
The Sound of Your Heart was a great finale. Still pulling in the characters from the other books, Laura was able to complete all sides of the characters to tell a heartwarming story of Ben and Julie. I love how it shows that beauty is only skin-deep and what is inside truly matters.
I am so sad to see the end of this series, but what an ending it was! Laura Ward is an amazing author that pulls at all your emotions. The love the characters have for each other, the emotional heartstrings of loss, then the steamy sex scenes...these books are amazing!
The Sound of Your Heart was a great finale. Still pulling in the characters from the other books, Laura was able to complete all sides of the characters to tell a heartwarming story of Ben and Julie. I love how it shows that beauty is only skin-deep and what is inside truly matters.
July 12, 2018
I received an ARC of this book for an honest review. This is the final installment in a trilogy. I really enjoyed the first two books in this trilogy, and this one was no different. I absolutely loved Ben for Julie. He is exactly what she needed when she needed it. He is so openhearted and kind and courageous. I loved Julie, too. She is sassy and full of snark. If you like New Adult, I highly recommend this trilogy.
July 19, 2018
Although I still have issues with the whole moral judgment thing around young women’s sex lives versus their male counterparts, this book was better than I expected. It definitely triggered a few things for me and it induced a few tears in parts. I still have issues with some of the more subtle moral messages that came through and also felt the HEA of everyone and tidying up all the loose ends was a bit unrealistic, but expected.
Overall, I enjoyed it.
Overall, I enjoyed it.
July 20, 2018
Spunky N Sassy Rating: 5.0
~~~~~~~~~~Lindsey's ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Review~~~~~~~~~~
Laura Ward became one of my favorite authors after the Not Yet series. I’m always excited when she has a new book coming and can never wait to read it. This book is awesome and I know fans and new readers alike are going to rave about this book.
~~~~~~~~~~Lindsey's ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Review~~~~~~~~~~
Laura Ward became one of my favorite authors after the Not Yet series. I’m always excited when she has a new book coming and can never wait to read it. This book is awesome and I know fans and new readers alike are going to rave about this book.
August 11, 2018
Love is blind
What another beautiful story. I had such an amazing time reading the book. When someone so outgoing, beautiful, funny, and loud meets someone who can't actually see her the way everyone else does makes such a heartfelt story. I loved Ben and Jules love story.
What another beautiful story. I had such an amazing time reading the book. When someone so outgoing, beautiful, funny, and loud meets someone who can't actually see her the way everyone else does makes such a heartfelt story. I loved Ben and Jules love story.
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