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Stupid Awesome Love #3
Stark Memory
She can't remember. He won't forget.
Opal
After years of applying for a botany fellowship, I’ve finally got an interview. The only downside is it’s in the one place I can’t go, New York, where my family died, and my memories were stolen. Going back would be a nightmare.
I can’t remember anything from before waking up in the hospital, and I don’t want to.
My brain is messed up, and here comes this devastatingly sexy guy, Santiago, who tells me we used to be in love, that I was his everything, and that he’s gonna do all he can to help me get my memories back. He only wants my happiness, but what the hell do I want? Is it Santiago, or is it the idea of a love I never knew?
Santiago
I needed a vacation, badly. I’m on the outs with my family, and I’m struggling with my music. California sounds like a great way to ignore my problems. That is until I see her.
Opal will always be the girl who got away. Actually, she’s the girl I fell in love with the summer after college then disappeared without a word. No calls. No texts. Nothing. I thought I was over her but being near her only brings up all the old feelings.
She was always the one for me, now I’ve gotta convince her I’ve always been the one for her.
Opal
After years of applying for a botany fellowship, I’ve finally got an interview. The only downside is it’s in the one place I can’t go, New York, where my family died, and my memories were stolen. Going back would be a nightmare.
I can’t remember anything from before waking up in the hospital, and I don’t want to.
My brain is messed up, and here comes this devastatingly sexy guy, Santiago, who tells me we used to be in love, that I was his everything, and that he’s gonna do all he can to help me get my memories back. He only wants my happiness, but what the hell do I want? Is it Santiago, or is it the idea of a love I never knew?
Santiago
I needed a vacation, badly. I’m on the outs with my family, and I’m struggling with my music. California sounds like a great way to ignore my problems. That is until I see her.
Opal will always be the girl who got away. Actually, she’s the girl I fell in love with the summer after college then disappeared without a word. No calls. No texts. Nothing. I thought I was over her but being near her only brings up all the old feelings.
She was always the one for me, now I’ve gotta convince her I’ve always been the one for her.
ebook
First published December 6, 2018
2 people are currently reading
37 people want to read
About the author
Ceri Grenelle
18 books176 followersCeri is the author of quirky and sexy contemporary romance novels. She has a major weakness for sappy cuddle moments as much as hot and steamy sex scenes, and a penchant for writing snappy and sarcastic dialogue. She loves romance that isn't afraid to be awkward and uncouth, and thrives on flawed characters with big hearts.
Ceri is a New York native living in California with her two cats, Mercy and Eugene Fitzherbert, who should be very thankful she didn't name him frying pan. She is a proud functioning introvert and lover of all things geeky. You can find her haunting the Twitter machine or posting pictures of her ridiculous cats on Instagram.
To receive exclusive content, fun giveaways, sneak previews of upcoming books, and general shenanigans sign up for her newsletter at CeriGrenelle.com/newsletter
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Ceri is a New York native living in California with her two cats, Mercy and Eugene Fitzherbert, who should be very thankful she didn't name him frying pan. She is a proud functioning introvert and lover of all things geeky. You can find her haunting the Twitter machine or posting pictures of her ridiculous cats on Instagram.
To receive exclusive content, fun giveaways, sneak previews of upcoming books, and general shenanigans sign up for her newsletter at CeriGrenelle.com/newsletter
Follow me on Twitter here:
@CeriGAuthor
Follow me on Facebook here:
Ceri Grenelle's Facebook Page
Follow me on Pinterest here:
Ceri's Pinterest
Follow me on Amazon here:
Ceri's Amazon Page
Follow me and my weirdo cats on Instagram here:
Ceri's slightly manic Instagram
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Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 39 reviews
January 1, 2019
I’m really torn on how to rate and even review this book. I really liked the plot and idea of the overall story. I love reading stories where characters lose memories and watching Opal remember things was beautiful and hard at times. The author did a great job when it came to pulling the emotions out.
The author pulled me in with the blurb and then the characters were likeable. I also really enjoyed the authors writing style and plan to read more books by her.
I struggled with some things in the story. These characters are late 30s but sometimes their inner dialogue and the way they interact with each other makes them seem mid to early 20s. It really made it hard to believe that they were older then that when my mind set was hoping for more mature characters.
Some fact in the story and how the hero searched for the heroine made me wonder why he didn’t look for her family to try to find her. I mean, he could have saved 17 years of grief but doing that but it seems like it didn’t even cross his mind. For some reason that annoyed me. He meet her family at a few points and would have known their names so it just kept saying on my mind as I read.
These are a few things that took place before the first half of the story that bugged me and stayed with me through out my entire read and I have to say it took away from the overall experience of the story.
Overall, it was a decent read but I felt that some things could have been better. Being my first book by this author I plan to try again with maybe the 1st book in this series and see how well it works for me. I may just be overly sensitive and nitpick small things but it’s only my option. 3 stars #2OCCJD
The author pulled me in with the blurb and then the characters were likeable. I also really enjoyed the authors writing style and plan to read more books by her.
I struggled with some things in the story. These characters are late 30s but sometimes their inner dialogue and the way they interact with each other makes them seem mid to early 20s. It really made it hard to believe that they were older then that when my mind set was hoping for more mature characters.
Some fact in the story and how the hero searched for the heroine made me wonder why he didn’t look for her family to try to find her. I mean, he could have saved 17 years of grief but doing that but it seems like it didn’t even cross his mind. For some reason that annoyed me. He meet her family at a few points and would have known their names so it just kept saying on my mind as I read.
These are a few things that took place before the first half of the story that bugged me and stayed with me through out my entire read and I have to say it took away from the overall experience of the story.
Overall, it was a decent read but I felt that some things could have been better. Being my first book by this author I plan to try again with maybe the 1st book in this series and see how well it works for me. I may just be overly sensitive and nitpick small things but it’s only my option. 3 stars #2OCCJD
December 5, 2018
This was the first book I read by this author and the story was so beautiful. Several times I became emotional thinking about what I would do if something tragic happened and I lost my entire family and all my memories. The story of Santiago and Opal just makes you believe in soul mates. This book really warmed my soul.
Reviewed by: Paige R.
Reviewed by: Paige R.
December 11, 2018
Santiago and Opal were in love, knowing they've found their one. Unfortunately, he's the only one that remembers it. One day Opal just disappeared, making no effort to contact him. He tried to move forward with his life, but she was always in his mind, and his heart. And when he plans to travel, needing a break from everything, one look at Opal and it's like they were never apart. He never stopped searching for her and he won't let her go again.
Opal has finally received a botany fellowship, but there's a catch - it's in New York, a place that holds painful memories for her, and some she can't even remember. She woke up in a hospital and that was it. She's tried to find her new normal and her old self, but it's a struggle. Especially as it's also the place where she lost her family.
And then she meets Santiago, though he insists it's actually a reunion as they were once in love. He intends to help her find all she's lost, including their chance at happiness.
Can their love stand the test of time and forgotten memories? Will almost twenty years apart change what was once meant to be? Will Opal ever remember what happened? Or is it better for her emotionally not to? Can she fall for Santiago all oer again? Will they get the HEA that was denied them?
One-click now and follow along as two people are reunited and must face the possibly insurmountable obstacle that could keep them apart. The story was an interesting one. What would you do if the person you loved vanished without a word, then decades later you find them again, only they don't remember you or what you meant to each other? I think the emotion between these two, the pain he feels at knowing and what she does at forgetting was nicely done.- By Elizabeth
Opal has finally received a botany fellowship, but there's a catch - it's in New York, a place that holds painful memories for her, and some she can't even remember. She woke up in a hospital and that was it. She's tried to find her new normal and her old self, but it's a struggle. Especially as it's also the place where she lost her family.
And then she meets Santiago, though he insists it's actually a reunion as they were once in love. He intends to help her find all she's lost, including their chance at happiness.
Can their love stand the test of time and forgotten memories? Will almost twenty years apart change what was once meant to be? Will Opal ever remember what happened? Or is it better for her emotionally not to? Can she fall for Santiago all oer again? Will they get the HEA that was denied them?
One-click now and follow along as two people are reunited and must face the possibly insurmountable obstacle that could keep them apart. The story was an interesting one. What would you do if the person you loved vanished without a word, then decades later you find them again, only they don't remember you or what you meant to each other? I think the emotion between these two, the pain he feels at knowing and what she does at forgetting was nicely done.- By Elizabeth
December 6, 2018
New author and first book that I've read in this series although it's book #3
Love at first sight on their graduation night ,what could go wrong after that? everything is fine until one night when Opal just disappears and Santiago never cease to look for the woman he loves.
After a tragic accident Opal looses her memory or better said her brain wants to wipe away all the bad memories of the unfortunate situation that she has been through and maybe that's why when Santiago finds her in the most unexpected moment ,she refuses to let him and everything that he says to believe and go back to those happy moments that he is telling her that they had.
''She is snappy and sarcastic,uninhibited.She knows who she is,and yet has no clue.''
I liked both characters ,Opal for taking her future in her hands and really thinking if it's worth to go back to those memories that her brain is trying to hide or just look in to the future with new hopes and dreams.I love Santiago ( love his name as I love everything latin ) because even if she tries to run away from him,from their past ,he won't let go to the only chance that she may be his again and will do everything to at least give her the opportunity to choose with all the facts and memories that they are still meant to be together.
It's a well written story ,with great banter between the characters ,it loosed my interest at times as some parts were to long and maybe they could have been done easier and shorter or even not necessary added,but overall it's a 4 solid stars read.
Love at first sight on their graduation night ,what could go wrong after that? everything is fine until one night when Opal just disappears and Santiago never cease to look for the woman he loves.
After a tragic accident Opal looses her memory or better said her brain wants to wipe away all the bad memories of the unfortunate situation that she has been through and maybe that's why when Santiago finds her in the most unexpected moment ,she refuses to let him and everything that he says to believe and go back to those happy moments that he is telling her that they had.
''She is snappy and sarcastic,uninhibited.She knows who she is,and yet has no clue.''
I liked both characters ,Opal for taking her future in her hands and really thinking if it's worth to go back to those memories that her brain is trying to hide or just look in to the future with new hopes and dreams.I love Santiago ( love his name as I love everything latin ) because even if she tries to run away from him,from their past ,he won't let go to the only chance that she may be his again and will do everything to at least give her the opportunity to choose with all the facts and memories that they are still meant to be together.
It's a well written story ,with great banter between the characters ,it loosed my interest at times as some parts were to long and maybe they could have been done easier and shorter or even not necessary added,but overall it's a 4 solid stars read.
December 6, 2018
This story was amazing. I did not read the first two books in the series but I was able to read it with no issues. This is a story about love, loss, and second chances.
Opal and Santiago spend one summer together after graduating from college. Then after the summer something happens and Opal disappears never to be seen again until one day Santiago see her and she doesn't remember who he is. Opal had something terrible happened to her and her family and she has amnesia. She doesn't remember her previous life or Santiago. But Santiago is determined to make her remember him and the love they shared for that one summer.
Can Opal get over the amnesia? Can she remember Santiago? Can she remember that unforgettable summer of love she spent with Santiago?
This is a must read second chance romance story that will take your heart by surprise and leave you breathless.
Opal and Santiago spend one summer together after graduating from college. Then after the summer something happens and Opal disappears never to be seen again until one day Santiago see her and she doesn't remember who he is. Opal had something terrible happened to her and her family and she has amnesia. She doesn't remember her previous life or Santiago. But Santiago is determined to make her remember him and the love they shared for that one summer.
Can Opal get over the amnesia? Can she remember Santiago? Can she remember that unforgettable summer of love she spent with Santiago?
This is a must read second chance romance story that will take your heart by surprise and leave you breathless.
December 11, 2018
Their summer together changed everything, and then she disappeared. Almost two decades later and Santiago catches a ghost in his arms, a ghost who has no clue who he is or what they meant to one another. When Opal is given a chance to live her dreams she slowly comes to the realization that she'll need to address the memories of the past that she's been running from; and who better to help her sift through it all than the handsome blast from her past? Together they traverse memories, heartache, and find a love that rivals the one of their youth. But it'll take more than courage to forge ahead, they'll have to find and gift others with the forgiveness that they've been denying themselves and so many others.
Santiago was a pretty solid character from start to finish and his endless patience definitely won me over in the face of Opal's vacillation. I liked that he was so completely honest with her from the very beginning, that he didn't hide himself away or his growing, changing feelings. Even knowing when Opal wasn't ready he came out and warned her that to discuss certain things further was deeper for him and would upset her. It layered their interactions with a complicated kind of hesitant transparency that wasn't expected. His stubbornness and refusal to forgive his family time and time again was frustrating, especially in the face of his two best friends that had lost so much. He eventually pulled it out, though, and gave him greater perspective for when he finally came to terms with his separation from Opal.
Where Santiago was consistent and stable, Opal was back and forth, fearful, and a bit too dismissive. She was also quite damaged and I didn't fault her for running away. Doesn't mean I liked it, just that I can understand and don't judge her too harshly for it. When she did begin to open up and let Santiago help her work through her memories and feelings, though, she softened and became much more relatable.
Throughout the entire story I had a problem with the inconsistent feeling between their voice and how much time was supposed to have passed. It felt more like everyone should have been in their mid-twenties rather than their late thirties. That alone gave it a frustrating element of juvenility where I was expecting something more staid and grown-up. Feeling like that never went away, by the way, it was a disconnect that lasted from start to finish. Along with Opal's insistence at avoiding her memories and then her reluctance to come clean about having them, and I had a lot of moments that I felt as if my eyes would get stuck in their rolled position.
But there were so many gems! I caught myself smiling many times when there were small revelations, confessions that about broke my heart with how much feeling was expressed, and the interplay between friends and family. I'm so in love with the night Opal and Santiago met. The awkwardness, the interest, the humor, the banter, their youth, and the excitement and promise of a happy future. It's what makes their situation that much more devastating and the ending so tenderly triumphant. The journey is pretty long with a few divergent paths on Santiago's part that lengthen the story. Overall, though, the story is as painful as it is sweet and I enjoyed reading it in its entirety.
Santiago was a pretty solid character from start to finish and his endless patience definitely won me over in the face of Opal's vacillation. I liked that he was so completely honest with her from the very beginning, that he didn't hide himself away or his growing, changing feelings. Even knowing when Opal wasn't ready he came out and warned her that to discuss certain things further was deeper for him and would upset her. It layered their interactions with a complicated kind of hesitant transparency that wasn't expected. His stubbornness and refusal to forgive his family time and time again was frustrating, especially in the face of his two best friends that had lost so much. He eventually pulled it out, though, and gave him greater perspective for when he finally came to terms with his separation from Opal.
Where Santiago was consistent and stable, Opal was back and forth, fearful, and a bit too dismissive. She was also quite damaged and I didn't fault her for running away. Doesn't mean I liked it, just that I can understand and don't judge her too harshly for it. When she did begin to open up and let Santiago help her work through her memories and feelings, though, she softened and became much more relatable.
Throughout the entire story I had a problem with the inconsistent feeling between their voice and how much time was supposed to have passed. It felt more like everyone should have been in their mid-twenties rather than their late thirties. That alone gave it a frustrating element of juvenility where I was expecting something more staid and grown-up. Feeling like that never went away, by the way, it was a disconnect that lasted from start to finish. Along with Opal's insistence at avoiding her memories and then her reluctance to come clean about having them, and I had a lot of moments that I felt as if my eyes would get stuck in their rolled position.
But there were so many gems! I caught myself smiling many times when there were small revelations, confessions that about broke my heart with how much feeling was expressed, and the interplay between friends and family. I'm so in love with the night Opal and Santiago met. The awkwardness, the interest, the humor, the banter, their youth, and the excitement and promise of a happy future. It's what makes their situation that much more devastating and the ending so tenderly triumphant. The journey is pretty long with a few divergent paths on Santiago's part that lengthen the story. Overall, though, the story is as painful as it is sweet and I enjoyed reading it in its entirety.
December 4, 2018
Stark Memory is the third book in the series, but can be enjoyed as a stand alone. I haven't read the first two books, and was able to easily read and follow this book. This book is about second chances and finding yourself, and making amends. So many second chances and reconnecting!
Two college graduates find each other and spend an amazing summer together. Then something happens as the summer ends, and they are torn apart. Years pass and life events affect our characters. But a chance meeting leads them back to each other. Will their summer of love be enough to rekindle memories and love?
Opal and Santi were interesting characters. Santi is a musician with a large Italian family. He's the oldest child and has a strong sense of loyalty and responsibility. He's a very passionate person who has had a lot happen in his life and needs a vacation! Opal is living a life of safety in California after suffering a harrowing loss that robbed her of memories. She is a unwilling to force the missing memories and has rebuilt a life for herself. But she's missing something, and despite the terror and pain of returning memories, she's also wishing she had a past. Individually they are good characters. I feel like I may have missed a bit of their backstories by jumping into book three. There were times you felt you didn't have all the information or backstory to understand a character's motives.
Santi and Opal had a great romantic summer. But their reunion was off balance. Santi had all the power, holding the memories. So while Opal had an attraction to him, the power balance was all in Santi's favor. Despite the memory struggles, the two do have chemistry, and their romantic interludes heat the sheets.
There seemed a bit of a disconnect or lack of cohesiveness to the storyline that made the story a bit choppy and hard to follow. I wasn't immediately drawn into the book to the point that I had to keep reading without putting it down. I wanted to know what was going to happen, so I kept reading.
I loved the premise of this book. The blurb was pretty awesome! I'm not sure if I'm going to go back to read the beginning of the series, or any future books though. It wasn't quite enough to suck me into the series. I thoroughly enjoyed the plot idea, and the way the characters worked together.
Favorite Quotes:
“I'll show them cowards and Tootsie Rolls.”
“We're gonna kick your beautiful brain's ass.”
“How could one summer have such a lasting, indelible impression on his heart?”
Star Ratings:
Plot = 4/5 Characters = 3/5 Heat = 3/5 Writing Style = 3/5 Overall Rating = 3/5
**Reviewed for Seraphim Book Reviews**
Two college graduates find each other and spend an amazing summer together. Then something happens as the summer ends, and they are torn apart. Years pass and life events affect our characters. But a chance meeting leads them back to each other. Will their summer of love be enough to rekindle memories and love?
Opal and Santi were interesting characters. Santi is a musician with a large Italian family. He's the oldest child and has a strong sense of loyalty and responsibility. He's a very passionate person who has had a lot happen in his life and needs a vacation! Opal is living a life of safety in California after suffering a harrowing loss that robbed her of memories. She is a unwilling to force the missing memories and has rebuilt a life for herself. But she's missing something, and despite the terror and pain of returning memories, she's also wishing she had a past. Individually they are good characters. I feel like I may have missed a bit of their backstories by jumping into book three. There were times you felt you didn't have all the information or backstory to understand a character's motives.
Santi and Opal had a great romantic summer. But their reunion was off balance. Santi had all the power, holding the memories. So while Opal had an attraction to him, the power balance was all in Santi's favor. Despite the memory struggles, the two do have chemistry, and their romantic interludes heat the sheets.
There seemed a bit of a disconnect or lack of cohesiveness to the storyline that made the story a bit choppy and hard to follow. I wasn't immediately drawn into the book to the point that I had to keep reading without putting it down. I wanted to know what was going to happen, so I kept reading.
I loved the premise of this book. The blurb was pretty awesome! I'm not sure if I'm going to go back to read the beginning of the series, or any future books though. It wasn't quite enough to suck me into the series. I thoroughly enjoyed the plot idea, and the way the characters worked together.
Favorite Quotes:
“I'll show them cowards and Tootsie Rolls.”
“We're gonna kick your beautiful brain's ass.”
“How could one summer have such a lasting, indelible impression on his heart?”
Star Ratings:
Plot = 4/5 Characters = 3/5 Heat = 3/5 Writing Style = 3/5 Overall Rating = 3/5
**Reviewed for Seraphim Book Reviews**
December 6, 2018
This book opens 17 years in the past, when Santiago and Opal meet at Santi’s college graduation party. Opal and her friends had already attended their own party (different colleges in NYC) and they’ve crashed this one. Santiago and Opal bond over their mutual hatred of the graduation song, and love of the ocean and science facts. They begin an intense summer relationship, spending time with each others’ families, and have plans to continue their relationship after Opal goes to grad school in California to continue her marine biology studies. Then the day before she is to leave, she disappears without a word.
Jump to present day, and Opal is in San Francisco. Santiago is still living in New York City but goes to California with his brother Nick for a month long vacation to visit friends. It turns out the friends they are visiting are friends with Opal, and she literally falls into Santi’s arms at a party that night. He confronts her about her disappearance, and is shocked when she says she has no idea who he is. Nick learns that the day before she was leaving all those years ago, she and her family were in a terrible accident and her entire family was killed and she has no memories before waking up in the hospital afterwards. Santiago is in the middle of his own family conflict and it’s hurting his relationships with his parents and his brothers, but he is too stubborn to deal with it and would rather help Opal.
This book was so good, and very different (in a good way) from most other romances. Opal is afraid of getting her memories back, afraid the pain and loss will break her. Santiago knows she’s stronger than that and wants to help her heal, even though she can’t remember him or their time together. Opal also wants to help Santiago. She can see how his family crisis is hurting him and the rest of the family.
What I liked: This was a nice change from the standard romance novels. Opal and Santi are so good for each other, too. The years apart were painful for him, but they each grew into their own person and are better together now because of that separation. I also liked that even though this was the third book in a series, I didn’t feel like I was missing anything. I’d actually forgotten it was part of a series and was pleasantly surprised to be reminded that I could read about the other characters.
What I didn’t like: Storywise, nothing. There were a few editing mistakes, but nothing major, and I’m hoping that it was only because I read an advanced copy and not the final release and they were corrected.
Overall: Super good read.
Jump to present day, and Opal is in San Francisco. Santiago is still living in New York City but goes to California with his brother Nick for a month long vacation to visit friends. It turns out the friends they are visiting are friends with Opal, and she literally falls into Santi’s arms at a party that night. He confronts her about her disappearance, and is shocked when she says she has no idea who he is. Nick learns that the day before she was leaving all those years ago, she and her family were in a terrible accident and her entire family was killed and she has no memories before waking up in the hospital afterwards. Santiago is in the middle of his own family conflict and it’s hurting his relationships with his parents and his brothers, but he is too stubborn to deal with it and would rather help Opal.
This book was so good, and very different (in a good way) from most other romances. Opal is afraid of getting her memories back, afraid the pain and loss will break her. Santiago knows she’s stronger than that and wants to help her heal, even though she can’t remember him or their time together. Opal also wants to help Santiago. She can see how his family crisis is hurting him and the rest of the family.
What I liked: This was a nice change from the standard romance novels. Opal and Santi are so good for each other, too. The years apart were painful for him, but they each grew into their own person and are better together now because of that separation. I also liked that even though this was the third book in a series, I didn’t feel like I was missing anything. I’d actually forgotten it was part of a series and was pleasantly surprised to be reminded that I could read about the other characters.
What I didn’t like: Storywise, nothing. There were a few editing mistakes, but nothing major, and I’m hoping that it was only because I read an advanced copy and not the final release and they were corrected.
Overall: Super good read.
December 12, 2018
Opal and Santiago met at Santi's college graduation party, and they became inseparable that summer, even far as making plans to continue their relationship after she goes to grad school in California. Then she disappears without a word the day before she's set to leave. Fast forward 17 years, Santiago goes to California for a vacation with his brother Nick, to visit friends, and as fate would have it, those friends, are also friends with Opal, and while they are all out one night, Opal literally falls into Santi's arms. He's shocked, and doesn't react well at all, especially since Opal doesn't remember him at all, so he storms away. His brother learns that Opal was she & her family were in an accident, and she was the only not killed, but she can't remember anything before waking up in the hospital. This is where a new journey starts for Santi & Opal, as he decides to help her, though he has his own issues to deal with. And see, that's only the very first part of this emotional, and very original story by a talented author named Ceri Grenelle. It seems like I gave a ton of details, but I think it was only like maybe 4-5 chapters worth of highlights. I'm not sure how to feel about Opal, because on one hand, I totally felt for her, but on the other, at times I wanted to shake her, because she didn't want to get her memories back, and I couldn't understand that fully. But I totally loved the whole fate thing, because it was heavy in this story, or it was in my perception of everything, and I can't say more than I already have. The cast of secondaries were amazing & added more depth to the story, and at times, humor as well. So I'm going to end this review before I say more, because I don't want to give away anymore details. HIGHLY HIGHLY HIGHLY RECOMMEND!
December 6, 2018
3.5 Stars
A chance meeting nearly two decades after Opal disappeared without a trace changes things forever for Santiago.
Opal and Santiago spent one magical summer together right after they graduated college. With promises of forever, the 22-year-olds parted as Opal was heading off to graduate school in California... and Santiago never heard from her again. Seventeen years later, Santiago is visiting friends in California when he sees, of all people, Opal, who is also friends with his friend Gemma.
While Santiago had been searching for Opal for years, she has no recollection of him or the love they shared, her memories all gone as a result of a tragic accident that killed her entire family. Santiago is determined to help her remember her past, but is he setting them both up for heartbreak?
I loved the concept of this book, but the execution fell a bit flat for me. I couldn't help but feel that parts of the story were dragging, and I was reading just to get to the end rather than reading because I was couldn't put the book down. The connection I felt between Santi and Opal in the prologue just didn't translate through the rest of the story.
Still, this was quite an interesting read, especially if you believe in the concept of soulmates.
I received an advanced copy and voluntarily left a review.
A chance meeting nearly two decades after Opal disappeared without a trace changes things forever for Santiago.
Opal and Santiago spent one magical summer together right after they graduated college. With promises of forever, the 22-year-olds parted as Opal was heading off to graduate school in California... and Santiago never heard from her again. Seventeen years later, Santiago is visiting friends in California when he sees, of all people, Opal, who is also friends with his friend Gemma.
While Santiago had been searching for Opal for years, she has no recollection of him or the love they shared, her memories all gone as a result of a tragic accident that killed her entire family. Santiago is determined to help her remember her past, but is he setting them both up for heartbreak?
I loved the concept of this book, but the execution fell a bit flat for me. I couldn't help but feel that parts of the story were dragging, and I was reading just to get to the end rather than reading because I was couldn't put the book down. The connection I felt between Santi and Opal in the prologue just didn't translate through the rest of the story.
Still, this was quite an interesting read, especially if you believe in the concept of soulmates.
I received an advanced copy and voluntarily left a review.
December 6, 2018
3.5 stars
Stark Memory is the third book in the Stupid Awesome Love series. I read it as a stand-alone and don’t think it took away from the story at all.
Santiago doesn’t know what happened to his first love from college until she comes back into his life just as suddenly as she left it years before. She doesn’t remember him or the time they spent together and is reluctant to bring painful memories back. But curiosity and a career opportunity brings her to seek out Santiago to learn more about her hidden memories. And while they spend time together they begin to fall in love for the second time in their lives.
The beginning of this book pulled me in although I wish there was some memories with Opal’s family just to have a reference on them after she looses her memory. I was really excited for the rest of the book and how their rekindling would play out.
The middle of the book dragged a bit for me. It was a little bit of a struggle to get through and my interest didn’t pick up again until close to the very end. And after I see how far their college relationship got I find her explanation of why he couldn’t find her a little hard to believe. But overall it was a nice romance with both sweet and heavy content.
Stark Memory is the third book in the Stupid Awesome Love series. I read it as a stand-alone and don’t think it took away from the story at all.
Santiago doesn’t know what happened to his first love from college until she comes back into his life just as suddenly as she left it years before. She doesn’t remember him or the time they spent together and is reluctant to bring painful memories back. But curiosity and a career opportunity brings her to seek out Santiago to learn more about her hidden memories. And while they spend time together they begin to fall in love for the second time in their lives.
The beginning of this book pulled me in although I wish there was some memories with Opal’s family just to have a reference on them after she looses her memory. I was really excited for the rest of the book and how their rekindling would play out.
The middle of the book dragged a bit for me. It was a little bit of a struggle to get through and my interest didn’t pick up again until close to the very end. And after I see how far their college relationship got I find her explanation of why he couldn’t find her a little hard to believe. But overall it was a nice romance with both sweet and heavy content.
December 8, 2018
One summer - One epic romance - One fatal night
Time has passed for both Opal and Santiago but when fate brings them together once again
Santiago needs answers and closure from the woman who broken his heart
Opal wants to remain in the dark.
Can a once forgotten love be restructured or is it best to leave the past just that - the past
I liked the premises for this storyline the idea of a forgotten love and a second chance
I enjoyed the characters Santiago had such a strong sense of family and love. Opal was happy living in the dark, at times I really really wanted to get into Opal's face and tell her to woman up, but honestly, how would I react to the loss? It kept me patient with her decisions at times even if I did not agree with them. I really liked the supporting cast. My understanding is they are the main characters in the previous books, though this is easily read as a standalone.
The story is all about second chances and facing the fears that hold us back. There are a lot of touching moments that had me blurry eyed and an also a few that had me smiling. The storyline read a bit choppy at times which made it hard for me to connect on the level I prefer, but that is me.
Overall it was a sweet romance
The copy I read was comp.
Time has passed for both Opal and Santiago but when fate brings them together once again
Santiago needs answers and closure from the woman who broken his heart
Opal wants to remain in the dark.
Can a once forgotten love be restructured or is it best to leave the past just that - the past
I liked the premises for this storyline the idea of a forgotten love and a second chance
I enjoyed the characters Santiago had such a strong sense of family and love. Opal was happy living in the dark, at times I really really wanted to get into Opal's face and tell her to woman up, but honestly, how would I react to the loss? It kept me patient with her decisions at times even if I did not agree with them. I really liked the supporting cast. My understanding is they are the main characters in the previous books, though this is easily read as a standalone.
The story is all about second chances and facing the fears that hold us back. There are a lot of touching moments that had me blurry eyed and an also a few that had me smiling. The storyline read a bit choppy at times which made it hard for me to connect on the level I prefer, but that is me.
Overall it was a sweet romance
The copy I read was comp.
December 8, 2018
One summer - One epic romance - One fatal night
Time has passed for both Opal and Santiago but when fate brings them together once again
Santiago needs answers and closure from the woman who broken his heart
Opal wants to remain in the dark.
Can a once forgotten love be restructured or is it best to leave the past just that - the past
I liked the premises for this storyline the idea of a forgotten love and a second chance
I enjoyed the characters Santiago had such a strong sense of family and love. Opal was happy living in the dark, at times I really really wanted to get into Opal's face and tell her to woman up, but honestly, how would I react to the loss? It kept me patient with her decisions at times even if I did not agree with them. I really liked the supporting cast. My understanding is they are the main characters in the previous books, though this is easily read as a standalone.
The story is all about second chances and facing the fears that hold us back. There are a lot of touching moments that had me blurry eyed and an also a few that had me smiling. The storyline read a bit choppy at times which made it hard for me to connect on the level I prefer, but that is me.
Overall it was a sweet romance
The copy I read was comp.
Time has passed for both Opal and Santiago but when fate brings them together once again
Santiago needs answers and closure from the woman who broken his heart
Opal wants to remain in the dark.
Can a once forgotten love be restructured or is it best to leave the past just that - the past
I liked the premises for this storyline the idea of a forgotten love and a second chance
I enjoyed the characters Santiago had such a strong sense of family and love. Opal was happy living in the dark, at times I really really wanted to get into Opal's face and tell her to woman up, but honestly, how would I react to the loss? It kept me patient with her decisions at times even if I did not agree with them. I really liked the supporting cast. My understanding is they are the main characters in the previous books, though this is easily read as a standalone.
The story is all about second chances and facing the fears that hold us back. There are a lot of touching moments that had me blurry eyed and an also a few that had me smiling. The storyline read a bit choppy at times which made it hard for me to connect on the level I prefer, but that is me.
Overall it was a sweet romance
The copy I read was comp.
December 6, 2018
This is the first book I've read by this author, and while it's the third in a series, I had no problem following along. This is an emotional book, about a couple's second chance, after being torn apart by a tragedy. Be prepared for some heart wrenching, a few tears, and even a few laughs.
Santi and Opal meet one beautiful summer, in New York. It seems to be the perfect, magical summer, after high school, but before college and adulthood really begin. Their connection is instant and pure, and they make plans to stay together, even while they are on different coasts. Then, one day, Opal is just.....gone. Santi never really recovers, never gets over her, never moves on. A chance meeting, many years later, gives him the rest of her story, and begins a healing journey for both of them.
This book was interesting, and had me feeling all kinds of ways. I enjoyed the banter between Santi and Opal. They had a really nice connection, both times they met, but not in an overly sappy way. Opal was very sassy, and didn't hesitate to stand up for herself. All in all, it was a nicely written story with fun characters, definitely worth reading!
Santi and Opal meet one beautiful summer, in New York. It seems to be the perfect, magical summer, after high school, but before college and adulthood really begin. Their connection is instant and pure, and they make plans to stay together, even while they are on different coasts. Then, one day, Opal is just.....gone. Santi never really recovers, never gets over her, never moves on. A chance meeting, many years later, gives him the rest of her story, and begins a healing journey for both of them.
This book was interesting, and had me feeling all kinds of ways. I enjoyed the banter between Santi and Opal. They had a really nice connection, both times they met, but not in an overly sappy way. Opal was very sassy, and didn't hesitate to stand up for herself. All in all, it was a nicely written story with fun characters, definitely worth reading!
November 2, 2018
Stark Memory by Ceri Grenelle
“Will she remember? 3 stars”
Santi and Opal met the night of their college graduations and it was basically love at first sight. They had a crazy summer of love and fun and made a plan for the future. Then one day Opal disappeared without a trace. Santi has never stopped searching for Opal and he finds her in the most unlikely place. But there’s a problem, Opal doesn’t remember Santi or her time with him. Will she be able to restore her memories, or will it be too painful?
Stark Memory is one of those books you have to be careful what you say about it because you could easily give away too much. I genuinely liked Stark Memory but for me it honestly dragged on a little too long in some areas. My heart honestly hurt for both Santi and Opal for what they went through and being separated for so long. Stark Memory really makes you think, what would I do if my loved one didn’t remember me? This is my first Grenelle book and I look forward to seeing what she does next.
Plot-3/5
Characters-3/5
Heat-3/5
Writing style-3/5
Overall-3/5
“Will she remember? 3 stars”
Santi and Opal met the night of their college graduations and it was basically love at first sight. They had a crazy summer of love and fun and made a plan for the future. Then one day Opal disappeared without a trace. Santi has never stopped searching for Opal and he finds her in the most unlikely place. But there’s a problem, Opal doesn’t remember Santi or her time with him. Will she be able to restore her memories, or will it be too painful?
Stark Memory is one of those books you have to be careful what you say about it because you could easily give away too much. I genuinely liked Stark Memory but for me it honestly dragged on a little too long in some areas. My heart honestly hurt for both Santi and Opal for what they went through and being separated for so long. Stark Memory really makes you think, what would I do if my loved one didn’t remember me? This is my first Grenelle book and I look forward to seeing what she does next.
Plot-3/5
Characters-3/5
Heat-3/5
Writing style-3/5
Overall-3/5
December 7, 2018
Well written and easy to follow contemporary romance of a coming of age type love that is cut short by tragedy.
On Santiago’s part, he loses the love of his life when Opal disappears after one glorious summer together. He searched for her, never falling out of love with her but was filled with hurt and anger at her disappearance.
Opal has no memory of Santi.
When they fatefully meet again seventeen years later he is filled with resentful emotion, while she is accepting of her lost memories.
This story was touching and heartbreaking as Santi tries to help Opal regain her memories of their love while Opal resists facing the girl she has forgotten.
Lots of tender sensual and intense scenes as they reconnect along with bittersweet memories that are revealed to Opal bit by bit.
Santi has to come to terms that he loves Opal of the past and present even though a part of him blames her for forgetting him.
A worthwhile story full of deep emotional moments.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
On Santiago’s part, he loses the love of his life when Opal disappears after one glorious summer together. He searched for her, never falling out of love with her but was filled with hurt and anger at her disappearance.
Opal has no memory of Santi.
When they fatefully meet again seventeen years later he is filled with resentful emotion, while she is accepting of her lost memories.
This story was touching and heartbreaking as Santi tries to help Opal regain her memories of their love while Opal resists facing the girl she has forgotten.
Lots of tender sensual and intense scenes as they reconnect along with bittersweet memories that are revealed to Opal bit by bit.
Santi has to come to terms that he loves Opal of the past and present even though a part of him blames her for forgetting him.
A worthwhile story full of deep emotional moments.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
December 7, 2018
I love the whole idea of this story. Young love and lose with a weird reunion 17 years later only to find that the woman he loved and never got over moved across the country. It isn't until he confronts her that he finds out she was in an accident that took her family as well as her memories. He still feels the same for her as he did all those years ago and thankfully gets a chance to help her try to remember anything and everything. She has protected herself from remembering in a way to protect herself but he becomes her rock even though she feels the need to protect herself from him. What a great way to tell this story and what a great pair Opal and Santi are. You immediately want them back together and keep flipping the pages to wil it to happen. New to this author but so glad to have found this gem. I can't say all of you will cry or get emotional, but this will definitely tug at some emotion.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
December 5, 2018
Who doesn't love a good amnesia romance? This is a great spin on this trope and honestly there are real-life stories along the lines of this tale and I love the way that they make my heart have the feels!
Santi and Opal are that star-crossed couple everyone knows. Met in college, get married, live happily ever after for real. Except Opal disappears the day before she's supposed to get on a plane and 17 years goes by until fate brings them back together. This story has all the things. A fantastic, broad cast of characters, realistic issues and introspection, family drama, fiery romance and love scenes. I've gotten into the habit of picking up book 3 lately, but I'll definitely be headed back for the first two!
Santi and Opal are that star-crossed couple everyone knows. Met in college, get married, live happily ever after for real. Except Opal disappears the day before she's supposed to get on a plane and 17 years goes by until fate brings them back together. This story has all the things. A fantastic, broad cast of characters, realistic issues and introspection, family drama, fiery romance and love scenes. I've gotten into the habit of picking up book 3 lately, but I'll definitely be headed back for the first two!
December 9, 2018
This book had its pros and cons for me. In general the story didn’t flow 100% of the time which made it hard to follow at times. The outline of this book is a really good plot. You have Opal and Santiago who spent a steamy summer together and fell in love. Then the next thing you know she has disappeared leaving Santiago questioning everything. Flash forward years in the future when Opal and Santiago meet by pure chance. She is attracted to him but has no memory of their time together. Santiago is miffed and trying to figure this out because he doesn’t want to lose her again. This is story is a part of a series. I have a feeling if I read the first 2 books before reading this one I would have understood their characters better.
December 14, 2018
4 star
The story has laughs, pain, secrets, and heartbreak.
This is Opal and Santiago’s story. Opal and Santiago were in love but when Opal disappears Santiago is lost. She was just gone with no explanation and he tried to move on with his life but could never forget her. When he sees her again, after more than 20 years he knows this is his chance to get her back. But she does not remember him at all. Can he help her remember him and the love they shared? Will she ever be able to remember and if not, will he be able to get her to fall for him again? Can they figure out what happened and move on from this? Or is this the closure that he needed in order to let go?
I felt I was able to connect with the characters and the story was a great read.
I recommend this book.
The story has laughs, pain, secrets, and heartbreak.
This is Opal and Santiago’s story. Opal and Santiago were in love but when Opal disappears Santiago is lost. She was just gone with no explanation and he tried to move on with his life but could never forget her. When he sees her again, after more than 20 years he knows this is his chance to get her back. But she does not remember him at all. Can he help her remember him and the love they shared? Will she ever be able to remember and if not, will he be able to get her to fall for him again? Can they figure out what happened and move on from this? Or is this the closure that he needed in order to let go?
I felt I was able to connect with the characters and the story was a great read.
I recommend this book.
December 13, 2018
I enjoyed Opal and Santiago's story! It's an emotional roller coaster ride but a beautiful story. They meet after graduation and spend a wonderful summer falling in love. A tragedy occurs and she disappears. Fast forward many years later and he catches her. Things get interesting after that. It's a captivating story with some romance, steam, drama, family issues and tragedy. I liked the characters and thought the story was well written. Although this is the third story in the "Stupid Awesome Love" series it is a stand alone read. I have not read the first two stories and had no problem following this one.
December 29, 2018
I gave this Book a rating of 5 ✩’s
Title: Stark Memory
Series: Stupid Awesome Love Book 3
Genre: Romantic Comedy
Author: Ceri Grenelle
Format: Kindle Edition
Published on: Dec 6, 2018
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I voluntarily received a Courtesy Copy of this book from Enticing Journey and am choosing to leave a review.
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What I liked/Didn’t Like:
This was my first book by this author and it was fantastic. Funny and witty while being romantic. This one will make you smile and laugh along with the antics these characters get into.
Title: Stark Memory
Series: Stupid Awesome Love Book 3
Genre: Romantic Comedy
Author: Ceri Grenelle
Format: Kindle Edition
Published on: Dec 6, 2018
>-< >-< >-< >-< >-<>-< >-< >-< >-< >-< >-< >-< >-<
I voluntarily received a Courtesy Copy of this book from Enticing Journey and am choosing to leave a review.
>-< >-< >-< >-< >-<>-< >-< >-< >-< >-< >-< >-< >-<
What I liked/Didn’t Like:
This was my first book by this author and it was fantastic. Funny and witty while being romantic. This one will make you smile and laugh along with the antics these characters get into.
December 8, 2018
Another homerun for Ceri Grenelle. I cannot get enough of this author! I laughed, I cried, I mourned the loss of Opal, and I celebrated her triumphant return. Santi is beautiful and complex. These two together are dynamite and a match, an epic love story tested by time, distance, and tragedy. "He took gasps of me like the first breath of air after years of suffocation. That's what it felt like for me as well... I just hadn't known I'd been suffocating." A+, would read again and again.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
December 2, 2018
I received an arc for an honest review!
This was my first book by this author, and I was really excited about it. Blurb sounded interesting.
Because, let’s face it, what would you do in this situation?! I honestly don’t know!
It’s a good story, well written, good flow, interesting plot. But in some parts, the story stopped flowing, and it dragged too long around in some ways.
But that’s just my opinion.
This was my first book by this author, and I was really excited about it. Blurb sounded interesting.
Because, let’s face it, what would you do in this situation?! I honestly don’t know!
It’s a good story, well written, good flow, interesting plot. But in some parts, the story stopped flowing, and it dragged too long around in some ways.
But that’s just my opinion.
December 7, 2018
I received a complimentary copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review. This is Opal and Santiago's second chance after seventeen years apart through no fault of their own. Opal lost her memory when she lost all of her family and they still have not come back, and Santiago was one of them. A story that kept me hoping for a happy ending for these two. A book I would recommend.
January 4, 2019
Her past is hidden in the mist of the accident she suffered. She does not want to remember. She is trying to get a botany fellowship and she finally has one but in the last place she wants to go. When he sees her he knows she is safe. He had been surprised when she just disappeared. She just does not remember him now. What will be do?.will.She finally remember him? See how it will go
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
July 21, 2019
What a freaking crazy plot line! We have met the characters before and now it is time for Santiago to escape NY and try to find himself, just who would have thought he would come face to face with the best thing he ever knew in his past- Opal, only she doesn't remember him. How in the world does he take that..... read and find out!
This book is filled with twists and turns but has the familiar sweet and super freaking steamy trademark of Ceri Grenelle!
This book is filled with twists and turns but has the familiar sweet and super freaking steamy trademark of Ceri Grenelle!
November 27, 2018
I really liked this book, but in some areas it just kind of dragged on a bit too much. This was a beautiful story and really makes you think about what would you do if you were in this situation. I could really feel the pain that Opal and Santi were experiencing and that is a true talent from the author. This is my first book by Ceri and I definitely look forward to reading more.
July 16, 2019
I had read this book earlier and I re-read it as part of this series and it is still so beautiful. And it made me think of my friends and family and how I would feel if something tragic happened and I list everything, including my memories. The story of Santiago and Opal just makes you believe in soul mates
November 21, 2019
I thought this book was enjoyable. The premise sounded intriguing which is why I chose to read this book. The author gave the story life by crafting intriguing characters who made me feel as if they were alive. I liked how the story played out as information about her circumstances were revealed. Good story
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