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Heart Collection #3
Look With Your Heart
When small town enemies are forced to face each other in shared quarters, they just might find there is more than meets the eye between them.
Ethan Scott lost his job. As top chef to an elite resort, he heated the kitchen with more than just the stove ... and got caught. A blow to his ego in more ways than one, he’s forced to move back to his hometown when a position for a personal chef opens. His new boss is a recluse in the woods and he’s heard the stories. Determined to make the best of things, nothing prepares him for the sight of his new employer or her feisty attitude.
Ella Vincent gave up her career without a choice. As a former model, the gruesome scars on her once lovely face won’t sell beauty products. Finding refuge in a secluded home in the woods near Elk Lake City seemed like a good idea until her brother hires someone to look after her. Her new employee is more than handsome in the face; he’s a thorn in her side.
Sometimes it takes a bruised heart to see more than the beauty our eyes can behold.
** PREVIOUSLY PUBLISHED as Test Taste, Sensations Collection 2.
Ethan Scott lost his job. As top chef to an elite resort, he heated the kitchen with more than just the stove ... and got caught. A blow to his ego in more ways than one, he’s forced to move back to his hometown when a position for a personal chef opens. His new boss is a recluse in the woods and he’s heard the stories. Determined to make the best of things, nothing prepares him for the sight of his new employer or her feisty attitude.
Ella Vincent gave up her career without a choice. As a former model, the gruesome scars on her once lovely face won’t sell beauty products. Finding refuge in a secluded home in the woods near Elk Lake City seemed like a good idea until her brother hires someone to look after her. Her new employee is more than handsome in the face; he’s a thorn in her side.
Sometimes it takes a bruised heart to see more than the beauty our eyes can behold.
** PREVIOUSLY PUBLISHED as Test Taste, Sensations Collection 2.
Kindle Edition
First published August 23, 2014
232 people are currently reading
763 people want to read
About the author
L.B. Dunbar
97 books3,273 followersL.B. Dunbar loves sexy silver foxes, second chances, and small towns. If you enjoy older characters in your romance reads, including a hero with a little silver in his scruff and a heroine rediscovering her worth, then welcome to romance for those over 40. L.B. Dunbar’s signature works include women and men in their prime taking another turn at love and happily ever after. She’s a USA TODAY Bestseller as well as #1 Bestseller on Amazon in Later in Life Romance with her Sterling Falls, Lakeside Cottage, and Road Trips & Romance series. L.B. lives in Chicago with her own sexy silver fox.
To get all the scoop about the self-proclaimed queen of silver fox romance, join her on Facebook at Loving L.B. or receive her weekly newsletter, Love Notes.
To get all the scoop about the self-proclaimed queen of silver fox romance, join her on Facebook at Loving L.B. or receive her weekly newsletter, Love Notes.
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April 18, 2020COMING SOON - a new improved story with stronger/older characters, more steam, and lots of romance.
October 1, 2020
Ethan is at a pretty low point in his life when he gets the opportunity to interview for a six week stint as a personal chef cooking for someone. The pay is amazing and is just the kick start he needs towards his dream of opening his own restaurant. He has always felt the weight of expectation from his father about his career choices and he hopes to one day prove that his dream is worth believing in
Ella has arrived at Lake Michigan to live with her brother Jacob. She lives a very reclusive life, a far cry from the years prior as a well known and recognised model. Jacob is a very successful author, about to go on a book tour and he wants someone in the house keeping an eye on Ella so she feels safe in his absence.
Ethan and Ella’s first path crossing does not go well, neither does the second or third one. Ethan is determined to get past her walls and break through the hostility she seems to have around him. How can someone so young and beautiful carry around so much anger all the time?
‘And the sudden longing to save her from whatever haunts her because she wants nothing to do with me.’
Ella is used to people looking at her with pity in their eyes, hence why she prefers to hide away in Jacob’s rural lake side home. No one needs to be subjected to what they see when she is out in public. However, Ethan doesn’t seem to look at her like that, which she finds confusing, frustrating and puzzling.
I've developed a new me, but I don’t know how to let that person be around others. And it makes me angry’.
Day by day, Ethan slowly figures Ella out and the result is an amazing friendship between them. She learns there is so much more to him than just cooking food. He learns about her passion for designing clothes and loves how much she lights up when she talks about it. To be fair, he finds her absolutely breathtaking.
When they both admit to themselves that there is more building between them, Ethan shows Ella just how beautiful she truly is, he makes her feel adored and worshipped. Neither of them have ever felt a connection like this with anyone. The thought that this has a time limit on it doesn’t bear thinking of while they are living in their own fairytale. However, danger is nipping at their heels and sadly, not every love story ends with a happy ever after…
This is the third story in the Heart Collection but the first I have read, this can be read as a stand alone story :) It has a bit of a fairy tale theme, a bit of Cinderella and Beauty & the Beast weaved into through it.
Ella has arrived at Lake Michigan to live with her brother Jacob. She lives a very reclusive life, a far cry from the years prior as a well known and recognised model. Jacob is a very successful author, about to go on a book tour and he wants someone in the house keeping an eye on Ella so she feels safe in his absence.
Ethan and Ella’s first path crossing does not go well, neither does the second or third one. Ethan is determined to get past her walls and break through the hostility she seems to have around him. How can someone so young and beautiful carry around so much anger all the time?
‘And the sudden longing to save her from whatever haunts her because she wants nothing to do with me.’
Ella is used to people looking at her with pity in their eyes, hence why she prefers to hide away in Jacob’s rural lake side home. No one needs to be subjected to what they see when she is out in public. However, Ethan doesn’t seem to look at her like that, which she finds confusing, frustrating and puzzling.
I've developed a new me, but I don’t know how to let that person be around others. And it makes me angry’.
Day by day, Ethan slowly figures Ella out and the result is an amazing friendship between them. She learns there is so much more to him than just cooking food. He learns about her passion for designing clothes and loves how much she lights up when she talks about it. To be fair, he finds her absolutely breathtaking.
When they both admit to themselves that there is more building between them, Ethan shows Ella just how beautiful she truly is, he makes her feel adored and worshipped. Neither of them have ever felt a connection like this with anyone. The thought that this has a time limit on it doesn’t bear thinking of while they are living in their own fairytale. However, danger is nipping at their heels and sadly, not every love story ends with a happy ever after…
This is the third story in the Heart Collection but the first I have read, this can be read as a stand alone story :) It has a bit of a fairy tale theme, a bit of Cinderella and Beauty & the Beast weaved into through it.
October 1, 2020
For almost a week now I’ve tried to figure out how best to review this book without giving you the wrong impression and it’s release day now so I have to just do it LOL I’m not the reviewer that starts out the review with the things that didn’t work in the book for her but I’m doing it now because I don’t see any other way for it to make sense to you. So here goes … I’m a huge fan of the actual story but the leads made me #twitchy and truth be told, so did the secondary characters. You’re probably thinking how I could like the story and not the actual people in it? That’s a very good question and I wish I could detail it out for you with examples but I’m going to have to #vaguereview so as not to give away the storyline.
Both Ella and Ethan had the communication skills of a two-year-old and while Ella’s circumstances do explain this characteristic, she took it all the way to the very end of the book. To say that I was frustrated is an understatement. They had more conversations in their heads than with each other. It was a hot mess for me LOL The secondary characters left me homicidal at points. I’m not naming names, but holy mother of god, MIND YOUR BUSINESS, these are grown people capable of making their own choices. I need to stop *hangs head* I’ll just leave this section with this … I don’t understand a lot of the choices in this story but I’m not a writer so do with all that information what you will!
Let’s talk about the good stuff now because regardless of all that up there, the bones of this story are exceptional. The story itself is one that is beautiful, emotional, passionate, hopeful, and full of heart. Ella’s circumstances broke my soul and the build-up of her story was very well done. I do wish this story would have been a duet because there’s a definite point in the story that would have done well as a pause and then continued with a more fleshed out plot but again, I’m not a writer so …
I just discovered this author not too long ago and everything I’ve read by her has been done really well, so this could very well be a me thing and I hope no one stops themselves from reading this story just because I was twitchy :) because you shouldn’t. You might like the two-year-old nonsense *shrug*
Both Ella and Ethan had the communication skills of a two-year-old and while Ella’s circumstances do explain this characteristic, she took it all the way to the very end of the book. To say that I was frustrated is an understatement. They had more conversations in their heads than with each other. It was a hot mess for me LOL The secondary characters left me homicidal at points. I’m not naming names, but holy mother of god, MIND YOUR BUSINESS, these are grown people capable of making their own choices. I need to stop *hangs head* I’ll just leave this section with this … I don’t understand a lot of the choices in this story but I’m not a writer so do with all that information what you will!
Let’s talk about the good stuff now because regardless of all that up there, the bones of this story are exceptional. The story itself is one that is beautiful, emotional, passionate, hopeful, and full of heart. Ella’s circumstances broke my soul and the build-up of her story was very well done. I do wish this story would have been a duet because there’s a definite point in the story that would have done well as a pause and then continued with a more fleshed out plot but again, I’m not a writer so …
I just discovered this author not too long ago and everything I’ve read by her has been done really well, so this could very well be a me thing and I hope no one stops themselves from reading this story just because I was twitchy :) because you shouldn’t. You might like the two-year-old nonsense *shrug*
August 18, 2014
I love when I find a great read from an author that is new to me. After reading Sound Advice and Taste Test I know that any books by LB Dunbar will be on my TBR list. I love how she weaves the senses into her books.
In this book we meet Ethan and Ella. Ethan needs direction in his life and Ella is living with a life altering secret and running from her past. Ethan shows Ella that she is beautiful and deserves to be loved.
The thing I love about this book are:
* The hometown feel of the setting of the book
* Told from both POV
* It took time for their love to grow
* Ethan was patient with Ella and didn't push her
* They both found themselves and followed their dreams
* There was mention of some of the characters from Sound Advice
* Was such a romantic read
* Each chapter started with a recipe recommendation
If you want a great read of two people dealing with their past and their future and finding each other then pick up this book.
In this book we meet Ethan and Ella. Ethan needs direction in his life and Ella is living with a life altering secret and running from her past. Ethan shows Ella that she is beautiful and deserves to be loved.
The thing I love about this book are:
* The hometown feel of the setting of the book
* Told from both POV
* It took time for their love to grow
* Ethan was patient with Ella and didn't push her
* They both found themselves and followed their dreams
* There was mention of some of the characters from Sound Advice
* Was such a romantic read
* Each chapter started with a recipe recommendation
If you want a great read of two people dealing with their past and their future and finding each other then pick up this book.
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September 29, 2020This Heart Collection series makes each sense, the central theme and skillfully weaves the story about it.
“Sometimes we don’t see what’s right before us, but when we stop and look with our hearts instead of our eyes, we learn so much more about a person. Things we can’t define with just our sight but recognize in here.”
Isabella Vincentia is hiding, away from prying eyes, away from her glamorous life and a danger that circles her in the periphery
And that's where Dunbar comes in. She makes us SEE, not just LOOK the beauty hidden behind mauled and mangled façade of survivors. All wrapped in her trademark, soft sentimental undertones, the story of two people intent on hating each other, somehow manage to unveil the hidden gems in their personalities.
Of characters, Ethan Scott is handsome, sexy and All Alpha...and he can heart up the kitchen like no other!!
Swooooooooooooon
Set in Elk Ridge town on the shore of Michigan Lake, small town feels are predominant. Family supports prominent. Sometimes stepping in to give some straight talk to set the son's confused mind right too!!
“Someday, someone’s going to come along and knock the wind out of your sails. If she suffers, you suffer. If she hurts, you hurt. But when she loves, there will be nothing like that feeling. Nothing.” He takes a deep breath.
“You’ll think with your heart, not your head or your dick, Ethan, and it’s going to make all the difference.”
I love how Dunbar emphasizes these two factors so lovingly in her sweet stories.
I was horrified at what happened in the past in the story but she doesn't let hope die and cynicism creep in.
A feel good story in a heart touching series. Pick up for a good time
4.5 stars for Fragile Hearts
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“Sometimes we don’t see what’s right before us, but when we stop and look with our hearts instead of our eyes, we learn so much more about a person. Things we can’t define with just our sight but recognize in here.”
Isabella Vincentia is hiding, away from prying eyes, away from her glamorous life and a danger that circles her in the periphery
And that's where Dunbar comes in. She makes us SEE, not just LOOK the beauty hidden behind mauled and mangled façade of survivors. All wrapped in her trademark, soft sentimental undertones, the story of two people intent on hating each other, somehow manage to unveil the hidden gems in their personalities.
Of characters, Ethan Scott is handsome, sexy and All Alpha...and he can heart up the kitchen like no other!!
Swooooooooooooon
Set in Elk Ridge town on the shore of Michigan Lake, small town feels are predominant. Family supports prominent. Sometimes stepping in to give some straight talk to set the son's confused mind right too!!
“Someday, someone’s going to come along and knock the wind out of your sails. If she suffers, you suffer. If she hurts, you hurt. But when she loves, there will be nothing like that feeling. Nothing.” He takes a deep breath.
“You’ll think with your heart, not your head or your dick, Ethan, and it’s going to make all the difference.”
I love how Dunbar emphasizes these two factors so lovingly in her sweet stories.
I was horrified at what happened in the past in the story but she doesn't let hope die and cynicism creep in.
A feel good story in a heart touching series. Pick up for a good time
4.5 stars for Fragile Hearts
Follow me on:
Email🌻 Bookbub 🌻 Twitter🌻 Instagram🌻 Blog🌻 Facebook🌻 Amazon 🌻
October 12, 2014
Taste Test was a modern day fairy tale of Beauty and the Beast, however in this case the beast is Ella the young adult in this story and Ethan is the man who plays the other role in this duo(beauty). Ella has been scarred really bad on the right side of her face, neck and right side of her body, and she is devastated by this as she was going to be a model-she was beautiful: she still is beautiful but people are cruel, hence the secrecy of their location, one of them anyway!
This book is about a man(Ethan) who is drifting through life with loose ends and no real motivation to do anything, he lost his scholarship, he does not want to take over the family business started by his grandfather and then his father, he has had several meaningless relationships, and has never been in love. What he really wants to do is be a chef, and that is not acceptable to his father. However his sister slips him an ad about being a chef at a private dwelling so he goes to see about it.
This job entails being a chef for an author of horror books and his niece(Ella) lives there with him. Ethan has to agree to tell no one about anything and keep their identity a secret. Ethan takes the job, and this is a good job as if he does well, he will get a year of college tuition paid for on top of his salary which is very generous.
This is when he runs into Ella, and their initial encounters are anything but cool, she hates him on sight, accuses him of trying to poison her, kill her, drown her and on and on. But Ethan soon realizes that Ella has a lot of problems and there is a reason behind her actions.
This book is well written, and the plot is well developed and leaves you guessing up until the last part of the book. There is so much emotional angst in this book, that you can cut through it with a knife. Find out what and why!
Ethan is also upset as his mother has another bout of cancer, and he feels so helpless and does not know what to do for his mom but he loves her so much. Ethan thinks his father is not there for his mother, but in this case too there are things that Ethan does not understand about his father and sees his unwillingness to help his mom as being rotten, but that is not the case at all.
Slowly but surely read as the writer takes you on the journey of Ella and Ethan, and be prepared to be stunned at what has happened and what happens still. Read about Ella's Uncle and how out of the need to protect Ella, he makes her life impossible. Ella's uncle is a good man, but he does not really know what to do for her- he has never had children. Read and see what happens with all of these wonderful characters the L.B. Dunbar has created and also find out what "taste test" refers to!
I have not read anything by this author before but plan to read all her books, she has a good ability to write a story that has great plots, angst of all types, and endings that are not expected but awesome.
I gave this book 5***** stars and can't wait to read another book by this author-you nailed it L.B. Dunbar! Thank you for this great story!
This book is about a man(Ethan) who is drifting through life with loose ends and no real motivation to do anything, he lost his scholarship, he does not want to take over the family business started by his grandfather and then his father, he has had several meaningless relationships, and has never been in love. What he really wants to do is be a chef, and that is not acceptable to his father. However his sister slips him an ad about being a chef at a private dwelling so he goes to see about it.
This job entails being a chef for an author of horror books and his niece(Ella) lives there with him. Ethan has to agree to tell no one about anything and keep their identity a secret. Ethan takes the job, and this is a good job as if he does well, he will get a year of college tuition paid for on top of his salary which is very generous.
This is when he runs into Ella, and their initial encounters are anything but cool, she hates him on sight, accuses him of trying to poison her, kill her, drown her and on and on. But Ethan soon realizes that Ella has a lot of problems and there is a reason behind her actions.
This book is well written, and the plot is well developed and leaves you guessing up until the last part of the book. There is so much emotional angst in this book, that you can cut through it with a knife. Find out what and why!
Ethan is also upset as his mother has another bout of cancer, and he feels so helpless and does not know what to do for his mom but he loves her so much. Ethan thinks his father is not there for his mother, but in this case too there are things that Ethan does not understand about his father and sees his unwillingness to help his mom as being rotten, but that is not the case at all.
Slowly but surely read as the writer takes you on the journey of Ella and Ethan, and be prepared to be stunned at what has happened and what happens still. Read about Ella's Uncle and how out of the need to protect Ella, he makes her life impossible. Ella's uncle is a good man, but he does not really know what to do for her- he has never had children. Read and see what happens with all of these wonderful characters the L.B. Dunbar has created and also find out what "taste test" refers to!
I have not read anything by this author before but plan to read all her books, she has a good ability to write a story that has great plots, angst of all types, and endings that are not expected but awesome.
I gave this book 5***** stars and can't wait to read another book by this author-you nailed it L.B. Dunbar! Thank you for this great story!
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March 18, 2024DNF @ 7%.
Note to self: FMC is rude and confrontational to a complete stranger (MMC). MMC is a horndog that starts sexualizing a woman he just almost ran into with his motorcycle, despite her being a raging bitch to him when he tries to apologize and help her up. Also, just her hand falling to her spandex makes him fantasize about spanking her within their first meeting... It's all just a little too OTT right off the rip for me to even feel like it's worth getting invested in the characters. Not for me.
Note to self: FMC is rude and confrontational to a complete stranger (MMC). MMC is a horndog that starts sexualizing a woman he just almost ran into with his motorcycle, despite her being a raging bitch to him when he tries to apologize and help her up. Also, just her hand falling to her spandex makes him fantasize about spanking her within their first meeting... It's all just a little too OTT right off the rip for me to even feel like it's worth getting invested in the characters. Not for me.
August 19, 2014
It is not often that a book leaves me speechless but that is just what happened with Taste Test. This story brings out the feels. To better express this, here is my favorite quote from the book;
“I realized that within her I saw a beautiful woman who was equal parts strong and vulnerable. She was lonely but confident in herself. She was irrational but focused on her future. She was in need of a friend and a lover; and I wanted to be both for her.”
Ella, while flawed in her own mind, is strong and resilient. She is my favorite character. She has endured a painful, loveless past and is striving to put her life back on track. As Ella says in the book, her plans have been delayed, not derailed. I find her an admirable character.
Ethan, whose plans are also delayed and possibly derailed at the same time, takes a peculiar job with Jacob, Ella’s uncle. Ethan is escaping the disappoint in his father’s eyes and accusing tone he hears, while still staying close enough to help out with his cancer stricken mother.
While Taste Test is the second book in the Sensations Collection, you do not have to have read Book 1, Sound Advice, to follow along. To me, this story is deeper and I felt more connected to the characters this time. Perhaps it was the tragic under tone of the whole book that swept me up. Taste Test is a contemporary romance but it at its heart it is so much more. It is a story of perseverance. A story of carving your path and not just following others; a story of the healing power of love, patience and understanding.
“I realized that within her I saw a beautiful woman who was equal parts strong and vulnerable. She was lonely but confident in herself. She was irrational but focused on her future. She was in need of a friend and a lover; and I wanted to be both for her.”
Ella, while flawed in her own mind, is strong and resilient. She is my favorite character. She has endured a painful, loveless past and is striving to put her life back on track. As Ella says in the book, her plans have been delayed, not derailed. I find her an admirable character.
Ethan, whose plans are also delayed and possibly derailed at the same time, takes a peculiar job with Jacob, Ella’s uncle. Ethan is escaping the disappoint in his father’s eyes and accusing tone he hears, while still staying close enough to help out with his cancer stricken mother.
While Taste Test is the second book in the Sensations Collection, you do not have to have read Book 1, Sound Advice, to follow along. To me, this story is deeper and I felt more connected to the characters this time. Perhaps it was the tragic under tone of the whole book that swept me up. Taste Test is a contemporary romance but it at its heart it is so much more. It is a story of perseverance. A story of carving your path and not just following others; a story of the healing power of love, patience and understanding.
August 20, 2014
This book was addicting. I love the family connection and the unconditional love that was clearly expressed by L.B. Dunbar. It felt like Beauty and the Beast in reverse minus the talking silverware and fine China. It was clear to me from beginning that I would get no sleep so I settled in and I'm glad I did. I highly recommend this book to all my book friends.
September 24, 2020
Ella and Ethan meet by accident. But it doesn't stop there, because shortly after their collision in the woods, they meet again in the house of Ella's stepbrother. Ethan is hired by Jacob to cook and keep an eye on Ella while he's on the road to promote his new book. The young woman, and former model, doesn't want or need a babysitter. What she needs is strength and self-confidence to be able to process the terrible things that happened to her in the past. And Ethan needs this job and the offered money to fulfill his dreams, to show his father, that he's not a failure and to support his parents.
Look with your heart is a beautiful story about two broken, scared, insecure, angry and at the same time wonderful people on their search for acceptance, support, self-worth and love. While Ella has to learn that evil does not lurk everywhere and that the most important thing is to love yourself, Ethan wants to prove to himself and his father that he's really good at what he does and loves. Both characters have what it takes to make it alone, but together it's easier. And the chemistry doesn't hurt 😉.
I love L.B. Dunbar's style. I devour and enjoy every book. Her words are always inspiring, her characters and stories realistic and everything is well researched and makes sense. The sex scenes are tasteful and soooo hot, she always finds the right balance for each of her couples. It's a pleasure reading her books and to get on a journey with her characters. Look with the heart is beautiful and highly recommended.
Look with your heart is a beautiful story about two broken, scared, insecure, angry and at the same time wonderful people on their search for acceptance, support, self-worth and love. While Ella has to learn that evil does not lurk everywhere and that the most important thing is to love yourself, Ethan wants to prove to himself and his father that he's really good at what he does and loves. Both characters have what it takes to make it alone, but together it's easier. And the chemistry doesn't hurt 😉.
I love L.B. Dunbar's style. I devour and enjoy every book. Her words are always inspiring, her characters and stories realistic and everything is well researched and makes sense. The sex scenes are tasteful and soooo hot, she always finds the right balance for each of her couples. It's a pleasure reading her books and to get on a journey with her characters. Look with the heart is beautiful and highly recommended.
August 23, 2014
It only took L.B Dunbar to pen and distribute one utterly amazing book (Sound Advice for those avid readers out there that haven't read it please do) for me to fall in love with her writing and have me labelled as a -let's just say- older than average fan-girl.
Taste Test is book two of her Senses collection and is another beautifully constructed story this time taking on a rather brilliant and novel approach to the Beauty and the Beast concept. I'm not going to delve too deeply into the storyline and ruin your own experience of the story but rest assure the characters are so well developed and rounded that your own emotions are pulled and twisted, expanding and constricting like a snapped rubber band.
Ethan is a terrific sort of hero for me- stunning in looks, fairly laid back in personality but with those mysterious layers of depth and chaotic inner musings of where his life is taking him. He's deep and misunderstood, what girl doesn't love that? Ethan's character is just so real and flawed striving to become the man he wishes he could be whilst trying to balance the expectations of others against the reality of the man he is at present - a semi-hedonistic college drop out with a one-night stand list the length of the Mississippi River and a seemingly unattainable goal of becoming a chef. In perfect contrast to Ethan's easy going nature our female lead Ella is a tightly wrapped enigma of aggression and insecurity brought on by an unimaginable tragedy that has left her scarred any and every which way. Again her character has so many dimensions, she can be so sparky and confrontational one minute but the more Ethan strives to get her to open up you begin to realise how damaged and lonely and sad she is.
Like I said I will leave the unravelling of the storyline to you because you need to experience this beautiful tale from beginning to end just make sure you're prepared for a varied range of emotions, one minute I was sniggering, the next agitated and the next in tears.
The writing is as lyrical and easy flowing as only L.B Dunbar can do, she can pull your emotions in a thousand different directions from one stunning sentence and leave you breathless with anticipation with the next. Beauty and the Beast has been my favourite fairy tale since I was a kid but L.B has managed to add a whole new level of enjoyment to it for me with Taste Test. Unique, romantic and beautiful. Can't wait for the next sense to be tantalised.
Taste Test is book two of her Senses collection and is another beautifully constructed story this time taking on a rather brilliant and novel approach to the Beauty and the Beast concept. I'm not going to delve too deeply into the storyline and ruin your own experience of the story but rest assure the characters are so well developed and rounded that your own emotions are pulled and twisted, expanding and constricting like a snapped rubber band.
Ethan is a terrific sort of hero for me- stunning in looks, fairly laid back in personality but with those mysterious layers of depth and chaotic inner musings of where his life is taking him. He's deep and misunderstood, what girl doesn't love that? Ethan's character is just so real and flawed striving to become the man he wishes he could be whilst trying to balance the expectations of others against the reality of the man he is at present - a semi-hedonistic college drop out with a one-night stand list the length of the Mississippi River and a seemingly unattainable goal of becoming a chef. In perfect contrast to Ethan's easy going nature our female lead Ella is a tightly wrapped enigma of aggression and insecurity brought on by an unimaginable tragedy that has left her scarred any and every which way. Again her character has so many dimensions, she can be so sparky and confrontational one minute but the more Ethan strives to get her to open up you begin to realise how damaged and lonely and sad she is.
Like I said I will leave the unravelling of the storyline to you because you need to experience this beautiful tale from beginning to end just make sure you're prepared for a varied range of emotions, one minute I was sniggering, the next agitated and the next in tears.
The writing is as lyrical and easy flowing as only L.B Dunbar can do, she can pull your emotions in a thousand different directions from one stunning sentence and leave you breathless with anticipation with the next. Beauty and the Beast has been my favourite fairy tale since I was a kid but L.B has managed to add a whole new level of enjoyment to it for me with Taste Test. Unique, romantic and beautiful. Can't wait for the next sense to be tantalised.
August 21, 2014
First of all I just have to say that LB Dunbar did it again. Her books have a way of connecting with its readers. Stories that touch close to home. Even when it is a romance in the making it shows you that it isn't all hearts and flowers. Life is difficult with obstacles we must overcome. Life isn't always pretty, but the choice we make are ours to make and see where we allow it. I fell in love with Sound Advice, Jess, Emily, and Katie. She introduced us to fairy tales with a twist hear.
Now with Taste Test, she broke my heart in many ways but found a way to put the pieces together. A wonderful twist to Beauty and the Beast. The beast isn't always going to be the man, and we need to see beyond appearances to discover what beauty lies beneath. Ethan did this with Isabella. He looked at what she was inside and not at her outer appearance. We lose sight sometimes that of what really matters.
I have to admit I have a strong admiration for both Ethan and Ella. Each had their own personal demons to overcome, but Ella's where the toughest. Ethan was just the sweetest trying to help her even with limited information. Time over time he proved worthy of being the one to fight the dragons and help her find herself. It took strength and faith to grow. I also have to admire his mom. She is a strong woman that just seems to accept life and embrace it no matter the challenges.
Shoot, all the characters have the strongest personalities demanding attention. LB you have smiling and in tears again. I love your books and look forward to more. Oh and Jacob! Jacob had my attention. I think you will rock my world with him. It seems your stories grow more intense as you write them. I love it.
Now with Taste Test, she broke my heart in many ways but found a way to put the pieces together. A wonderful twist to Beauty and the Beast. The beast isn't always going to be the man, and we need to see beyond appearances to discover what beauty lies beneath. Ethan did this with Isabella. He looked at what she was inside and not at her outer appearance. We lose sight sometimes that of what really matters.
I have to admit I have a strong admiration for both Ethan and Ella. Each had their own personal demons to overcome, but Ella's where the toughest. Ethan was just the sweetest trying to help her even with limited information. Time over time he proved worthy of being the one to fight the dragons and help her find herself. It took strength and faith to grow. I also have to admire his mom. She is a strong woman that just seems to accept life and embrace it no matter the challenges.
Shoot, all the characters have the strongest personalities demanding attention. LB you have smiling and in tears again. I love your books and look forward to more. Oh and Jacob! Jacob had my attention. I think you will rock my world with him. It seems your stories grow more intense as you write them. I love it.
September 1, 2014
I was blown away by this gentle, emotional, and suspenseful book. First loves are difficult to maneuver. If you have never been in love before, you have no idea what you are in for. First of all, how can you tell the difference from a crush, lust or love? This being your first time, what do you compare it to? That moment when you realize you would give up everything for the object of your affection is the moment when you finally open you eyes and realize you are in love. Love is sacrifice that does not feel like a burden. You are willing to do whatever is necessary to bring a smile and happiness to the face of the one you love. Their happiness makes you happy, so how can it be a burden?
Ethan and Ella's story is complicated. This is not your typical boy meets girl, they fall in love and live happily ever after. Just like in real life, there are real choices and challenges to deal with. Attraction is not the one thing that draws them together. They are both at a crossroads where they are dealing with painful situations and must take charge of their lives in order to own and control their future.
This book is well written. You are swept away by the author's words and into Ethan's and Ella's reality. Empathy is not the only feeling I had for this couple. I felt like nurturing and protecting them as my own children. I also felt the anger toward the circumstances that brought both of them to their current status.
I recommend this book to those who are not only looking to read about a love affair, but also for those who seek to understand why we react the way we do to very human circumstances.
Ethan and Ella's story is complicated. This is not your typical boy meets girl, they fall in love and live happily ever after. Just like in real life, there are real choices and challenges to deal with. Attraction is not the one thing that draws them together. They are both at a crossroads where they are dealing with painful situations and must take charge of their lives in order to own and control their future.
This book is well written. You are swept away by the author's words and into Ethan's and Ella's reality. Empathy is not the only feeling I had for this couple. I felt like nurturing and protecting them as my own children. I also felt the anger toward the circumstances that brought both of them to their current status.
I recommend this book to those who are not only looking to read about a love affair, but also for those who seek to understand why we react the way we do to very human circumstances.
August 31, 2014
I had the pleasure of reading this as an ARC. LB Dunbar pulls out all the stops in Taste Test. If Sound Advice left you wanting just a little bit more in the sexy department, Taste Test will not disappoint. After viewing teasers and reading the blurb for Taste Test, I could not wait to see how LB spun the Beauty and the Beast fairy tale. Much like Sound Advice, this novel is filled with beautiful descriptions and real life situations. I love when a book depicts real people. The ones who are conflicted about their career choices and those that have demons. Ethan is trying hard to figure out where he wants to be in life and Ella is struggling with demons; demons that left both physical and emotional scars. As a reader we want nothing more than for Ethan and Ella to get together. As readers we can’t understand why Ella is pushing the sexy, boy next door Ethan away. It isn’t until we learn bits and pieces of her secrets that we begin to get a glimpse into who Ella is. Although she carries around physical scars, Ethan sees her as a beautiful and sexy woman. LB does an amazing job at being subtly sexy. She doesn’t need to use the “dirty words” to make her sexy scenes beautiful. I admit it, I got hot and bothered. I can go on and on about this book, but then you wouldn’t have to read it and we definitely do not want that. This is a wonderful second novel and I can’t wait to read the rest of the stories in the Sensations Collection.
September 4, 2014
** I had the absolute pleasure of receiving an ARC for this book **
It’s not often that I am left speechless after reading a book. I was captivated right from the start. I ADORED the twist to Beauty & the Beast. Ella & Ethan's story is so touching and complicated which makes it so much more real than most stories. It’s not your typically boy meets girl; they fall in love yada yada yada … The love story between Ella and Ethan is about them finding solace in each other after society and family reject them both. It’s about not only confronting but surpassing your demons. I think the most important lesson to be learned is that like the “Beast” Ella is not angry, she is sad. She is tired and afraid. She had lost everything that is important to her until Ethan comes along and shows her beauty is more than skin deep. They bring out the best in each other, they heal each other and then life goes on. Beautifully written, and masterfully executed.
If I could rate this book more than 5 stars I would.
I also think it’s important to stress that while Taste Test is the second book in the Sensations Collection, you do not have to read Book 1, Sound Advice to follow along (although I would highly recommend that one as well). LB Dunbar you never cease to amaze me, I am eagerly awaiting the next installment Fragrance Free as it is my favorite of our 5 senses and there is no one better then you to do that justice.
It’s not often that I am left speechless after reading a book. I was captivated right from the start. I ADORED the twist to Beauty & the Beast. Ella & Ethan's story is so touching and complicated which makes it so much more real than most stories. It’s not your typically boy meets girl; they fall in love yada yada yada … The love story between Ella and Ethan is about them finding solace in each other after society and family reject them both. It’s about not only confronting but surpassing your demons. I think the most important lesson to be learned is that like the “Beast” Ella is not angry, she is sad. She is tired and afraid. She had lost everything that is important to her until Ethan comes along and shows her beauty is more than skin deep. They bring out the best in each other, they heal each other and then life goes on. Beautifully written, and masterfully executed.
If I could rate this book more than 5 stars I would.
I also think it’s important to stress that while Taste Test is the second book in the Sensations Collection, you do not have to read Book 1, Sound Advice to follow along (although I would highly recommend that one as well). LB Dunbar you never cease to amaze me, I am eagerly awaiting the next installment Fragrance Free as it is my favorite of our 5 senses and there is no one better then you to do that justice.
September 2, 2014
First of all, I absolutely loved the chapter headings. They were fun, whimsical, and really set the mood for each chapter. They also make perfect sense with the title of the book. I normally don't pay much attention to chapter headings while reading, but I made sure to read every one of these.
This is a modern take on the beauty and the beast theme, where the woman is the beast. Having lived with disfiguring scars for the past 15 years (half my life), I could sort of relate to Ella, except we have very different personalities and that greatly affects our reaction to our disfigurement. People stare or make it really obvious that they're trying not to, kids point and loudly ask their parents what happened or what's wrong. I can understand why Ella acts the way she does, especially considering her past.
It was clear early on that Ella had issues but it wasn't initially clear why and I frequently found myself wanting to shake her and tell her to stop being ridiculous. I imagine Ethan felt the same way.
This story really sucked me in from the beginning and the characters were really well developed. The story flowed smoothly with enough mystery to keep me firmly hooked, wanting to know what would happen next and if Ethan and Ella would ever find a happily ever after. I look forward to reading more from this author and would recommend this book to any romance fan that likes their men to be a bit on the sweeter side.
Copy received in exchange for an honest review.
This is a modern take on the beauty and the beast theme, where the woman is the beast. Having lived with disfiguring scars for the past 15 years (half my life), I could sort of relate to Ella, except we have very different personalities and that greatly affects our reaction to our disfigurement. People stare or make it really obvious that they're trying not to, kids point and loudly ask their parents what happened or what's wrong. I can understand why Ella acts the way she does, especially considering her past.
It was clear early on that Ella had issues but it wasn't initially clear why and I frequently found myself wanting to shake her and tell her to stop being ridiculous. I imagine Ethan felt the same way.
This story really sucked me in from the beginning and the characters were really well developed. The story flowed smoothly with enough mystery to keep me firmly hooked, wanting to know what would happen next and if Ethan and Ella would ever find a happily ever after. I look forward to reading more from this author and would recommend this book to any romance fan that likes their men to be a bit on the sweeter side.
Copy received in exchange for an honest review.
October 18, 2014
I long loved L.B. Dunbar but took me forever to read her books. When I was done with them I was go mad at myself for waiting for long to get them read
Ethan is in a low place in life, not able to attend college but not wanting to be at home either. Ethan wants to cook more than anything so when a job opens up for a cook Ethan jumps at the chance to take it.
Now insert Ella, who in her own way has been to hell and back. Ella hides from the world in hope to just past time until her next step in life comes and she can get to New York.
When Ethan and Ella meet Ella runs to hide but Ethan just wants to know her. This is when the book gets great, Ella is so mean to Ethan but he takes it and keeps trying. I love Ethan and Ella, Ethan is determined and strong. Plus who don't love a man who can cook. Ella is damage and likes to keep people away, to stay unattached. Ella has her goals and she is set to get them accomplish.
The love hate in Taste Test is perfect!!! Not to much, not to little. L.B. Dunbar knows what she is doing and putting out books that are absolutely amazing. I can not stress enough how much I want everyone to read it. There are little thing too that make this book stand out, the chapter headings I usually never read them but I love each recipe card and the secret ingredient. I laughed, cried, and loved. This book was perfect to me, I am very very very excited to keep up with L.B. and see where she goes from here.
Ethan is in a low place in life, not able to attend college but not wanting to be at home either. Ethan wants to cook more than anything so when a job opens up for a cook Ethan jumps at the chance to take it.
Now insert Ella, who in her own way has been to hell and back. Ella hides from the world in hope to just past time until her next step in life comes and she can get to New York.
When Ethan and Ella meet Ella runs to hide but Ethan just wants to know her. This is when the book gets great, Ella is so mean to Ethan but he takes it and keeps trying. I love Ethan and Ella, Ethan is determined and strong. Plus who don't love a man who can cook. Ella is damage and likes to keep people away, to stay unattached. Ella has her goals and she is set to get them accomplish.
The love hate in Taste Test is perfect!!! Not to much, not to little. L.B. Dunbar knows what she is doing and putting out books that are absolutely amazing. I can not stress enough how much I want everyone to read it. There are little thing too that make this book stand out, the chapter headings I usually never read them but I love each recipe card and the secret ingredient. I laughed, cried, and loved. This book was perfect to me, I am very very very excited to keep up with L.B. and see where she goes from here.
September 2, 2014
In a modern twist of fairy tales, what if the beast is a woman instead of a man?
Ethan Scott
I needed out of my parents’ house. I lost my college scholarship because drinking and partying was more important. I answered an ad in the newspaper that was supposed to pay for my last semester but ended up being so much more.
My life changed the day I went to work for the mysterious man at the cold house on the lake.
Ella Vincentia
I left my home for a reason. I kept myself hidden but everything from that terrible night haunted me. My scars are far more than physical. I had no idea I had to deal with a certain someone as well. I wanted to be alone, but unfortunately he had other plans. I had my secrets to protect.
I loved the first book in The Sensations series Sound Advice. This is such an inspiring story. I connected with Ethan was with Ella. He was just so sweet. You could feel the heat and chemistry between Ethan and Ella.
This is such a beautiful book about surviving true horrors that are thrown your way. L.B Dunbar is such an amazing author. I can’t wait to read the next book in the Sensations series.
I would highly recommend this book.
November 2, 2014
I really liked this story until it took a turn that to me was just wrong and didn't work for me at all. I was liking this book enough to give the next one a shot until I saw it was about Jacob and Pam, sorry can't do it because after this one I have no use for Pam. She came across as a meddling know it all in this book and while the separation from Jacob was needed the rest of what she pushed Ella to do was not necessary and made her look like a twat to me.
January 27, 2015
I won a copy of Sound Advice, Book 1 in the Sensations Collection by L.B. Dunbar. I was hooked on her writing then. I know now after reading Taste Test, I won't miss any book by her!
While the books are both stand alone, I love that Taste Test mentioned my favorites from Sound Advice.
I love how connected I felt to the characters right away. I cried with them, laughed with them. My heart got broken and put back together. I don't know how L.B. Dunbar does it, but she puts you right into the book with the characters.
This reverse of Beauty and the Beast was told beautifully.
Ethan and Ella definitely have a love/hate relationship and I love that Ethan just won't give up on her.
While the books are both stand alone, I love that Taste Test mentioned my favorites from Sound Advice.
I love how connected I felt to the characters right away. I cried with them, laughed with them. My heart got broken and put back together. I don't know how L.B. Dunbar does it, but she puts you right into the book with the characters.
This reverse of Beauty and the Beast was told beautifully.
Ethan and Ella definitely have a love/hate relationship and I love that Ethan just won't give up on her.
August 19, 2014
Let me just start off by saying...this book was amazing!!! Ethan is the son of a farmer. His father wants him to take over the farm when he retires, but Ethan's passion is cooking. Ethan gets hired by a writer named Jacob who tells him he can not tell anyone about his job, who he works for, where he lives ect...While on the job, Ethan meets Jacob's feisty niece Ella, who puts Ethan through the ringer. They have a love hate relationship all throughout the book, but Ethan is determined to tear down her walls and get close to her. I love how Ella puts up a fight and doesn't let Ethan in right away. Ethan has to prove to Ella he is trustworthy. This most definitely was a 5 star read. LB Dunbar is an amazing author!
Reviewed by: Amber Cromer
Reviewed by: Amber Cromer
September 28, 2020
Look with your Heart is a lovely tale that will hold your interest until the end. Its a story of love, healing, self-worth with some added mystery and suspense included. This was Ethan and Ella's story and although these two may have gotten off on the wrong foot at the start, but with patience and understanding sparks were eventually flying between them. This is a story about two flawed, insecure individuals searching for love and acceptance and it about them achieving their dreams and following their heart. I enjoyed this novel and I would recommend it to all lovers of contemporary romance.
August 30, 2014
This book was even more amazing than Sound Advice, which I also loved. The writing is so descriptive!! What I especially loved about Taste Test was the mystery element. Secret job, secret location, girl with even more secrets of her own...
September 27, 2014
L.B Dunbar has done it again. Amazing story line, setting and exquisite character development! Bravo! Can't wait for the next in the series!
October 1, 2020
When the choices you have made in your past affect your job, it’s time to take a hard look at where your path is headed. For Ethan – the reality of losing his job as a chef leads him back to his hometown. With a job prospect as a personal chef and a paycheck that would put Ethan one step closer to owning his own restaurant, this former chef overlooks some of the oddities of the job.
Set with the task of keeping his employment situation under wraps, Ethan finds that there is more to living in seclusion than he could have imagined. With Jacob ready to start a book tour, Ethan finds that he is in charge of a very interesting house guest. Crossing paths with Ella, Ethan quickly realizes that this job is going to be harder than he ever could have imagined.
Look With Your Heart is the latest re-release from L.B Dunbar. This book was previously released under the title Taste Test and has been rewritten to include more content. While I have read the rest of the series, I did go in ‘blind’ with this book. Never even looking at the synopsis proved to be as thrilling as I predicted. Dunbar has a way of drawing you in with characters that are flawed and have had vast life experiences. Ella and Ethan certainly prove that throughout this engaging novel. As I read through Look with your Heart, I found myself falling in love with the trials that both characters had gone through in life. This is definitely a stand alone in a series that I have truly adored!! Make sure you add Look With Your Heart to your reading list!!
Set with the task of keeping his employment situation under wraps, Ethan finds that there is more to living in seclusion than he could have imagined. With Jacob ready to start a book tour, Ethan finds that he is in charge of a very interesting house guest. Crossing paths with Ella, Ethan quickly realizes that this job is going to be harder than he ever could have imagined.
Look With Your Heart is the latest re-release from L.B Dunbar. This book was previously released under the title Taste Test and has been rewritten to include more content. While I have read the rest of the series, I did go in ‘blind’ with this book. Never even looking at the synopsis proved to be as thrilling as I predicted. Dunbar has a way of drawing you in with characters that are flawed and have had vast life experiences. Ella and Ethan certainly prove that throughout this engaging novel. As I read through Look with your Heart, I found myself falling in love with the trials that both characters had gone through in life. This is definitely a stand alone in a series that I have truly adored!! Make sure you add Look With Your Heart to your reading list!!
May 10, 2018
I really enjoyed this modern gender twist on Beauty & The Beast!
Writing style: Dual POVs
Cover and chapter design gush: there is more than one version of this cover. I prefer the one with Ethan on it because it feels a bit mysterious. Is he a beast? Hm. And I love the chapter title style and the recipe themed titles. It is also a nice extra perk when an author includes unique graphics.
Quick review thoughts
I liked the mysterious set up this story had. Our two young lovers with uncertain futures start off with a cantankerous dynamic that slowly evolved into a reluctant friendship, and then into irresistible passion.
I ♥ this quiet moment between them:
‘Placing covers over us both, I nestled close to him, and breathed in the scent of him, now mixed with my own jasmine soap, as I placed my head onto his chest and tucked a leg between his own. I realized he was my home. Not this house. Not California. Not New York. Just Ethan.’ ♥ Ella
And bonus, we got a pretty sweet epilogue and peak into their new lives which finally seems so promising. I love a good epilogue!
This was my 3rd novel by L.B. Dunbar, and it definitely won’t be the last. I like how she chooses different sub genres within romance and how she melds the standard tropes into an original story. Bravo!
Writing style: Dual POVs
Cover and chapter design gush: there is more than one version of this cover. I prefer the one with Ethan on it because it feels a bit mysterious. Is he a beast? Hm. And I love the chapter title style and the recipe themed titles. It is also a nice extra perk when an author includes unique graphics.
Quick review thoughts
I liked the mysterious set up this story had. Our two young lovers with uncertain futures start off with a cantankerous dynamic that slowly evolved into a reluctant friendship, and then into irresistible passion.
I ♥ this quiet moment between them:
‘Placing covers over us both, I nestled close to him, and breathed in the scent of him, now mixed with my own jasmine soap, as I placed my head onto his chest and tucked a leg between his own. I realized he was my home. Not this house. Not California. Not New York. Just Ethan.’ ♥ Ella
And bonus, we got a pretty sweet epilogue and peak into their new lives which finally seems so promising. I love a good epilogue!
This was my 3rd novel by L.B. Dunbar, and it definitely won’t be the last. I like how she chooses different sub genres within romance and how she melds the standard tropes into an original story. Bravo!
September 29, 2020
5 Star Review Look With Your Heart (Heart Collection #3) by L B Dunbar
Over the last couple of years I have found myself gravitation to stories set in a small town. Having read the previous books in this series, I couldn’t wait to see what L.B.Dunbar had in store for as we visit Elk Lake City which sounds like an interesting place to visit.
Ethan Scott is an elite chef who suddenly loses his job and is forced to return home. Securing a job as a personal chef, he finds that his new employer is former model Ella Vincentia.
I really liked Ella, she is sassy, feisty and refuses to take crap from anyone. She is not happy that her brother has hired Ethan. Ella has been badly scarred, not only physically but emotionally and cuts herself off from the world.
The chemistry between them sizzles and when they give in to the passion it ignites between them. It was entertaining to watch their relationship progress. I loved how Ethan saw beneath the scars to the real woman.
This is a beautifully written love story about surviving unspeakable horrors, of overcoming ones past and taking a leap of faith. It was well written, the characters strong and Look With Your Heart was a heartwarming, romantic love story which I enjoyed.
Over the last couple of years I have found myself gravitation to stories set in a small town. Having read the previous books in this series, I couldn’t wait to see what L.B.Dunbar had in store for as we visit Elk Lake City which sounds like an interesting place to visit.
Ethan Scott is an elite chef who suddenly loses his job and is forced to return home. Securing a job as a personal chef, he finds that his new employer is former model Ella Vincentia.
I really liked Ella, she is sassy, feisty and refuses to take crap from anyone. She is not happy that her brother has hired Ethan. Ella has been badly scarred, not only physically but emotionally and cuts herself off from the world.
The chemistry between them sizzles and when they give in to the passion it ignites between them. It was entertaining to watch their relationship progress. I loved how Ethan saw beneath the scars to the real woman.
This is a beautifully written love story about surviving unspeakable horrors, of overcoming ones past and taking a leap of faith. It was well written, the characters strong and Look With Your Heart was a heartwarming, romantic love story which I enjoyed.
October 3, 2020
A contemporary Beauty and the Beast retelling, only the female lead is the beast. I say that with a lot of love in my heart. Ella as beast references her prickly personality, not her looks. Having not read the first iteration of this story, I'm enjoying how characters from the previous two books are interwoven into each subsequent book. Gives the story a real small town, close knit feeling.
Ethan Scott has finally figured out what he loves to do...cook, but his impulsivity seems to find him trouble. Enter Pam Carter of the Elk Lake City Carters, who is the personal assistant to novelist Jacob Vincent. Pam finds Ethan a job as personal chef for Jacob and his sister Ella, mostly as chef and faux body guard for Ella. Ethan and Ella got along as well as oil and water. But once they broke down the walls they've both erected, there are significant changes that occur.
I'll leave you to read just how the beast becomes the beauty, the lessons each one has to learn along the way, and the risks they have to take to find their way back to their one true love. If I haven't already said it, I LOVED this story. Ella and Ethan were the perfect pair and were so full of life and light when they let go of the darkness of their pasts. I look forward to seeing snippets of their life together in the next books in this series.
I received an advance copy of this book at my request and voluntarily left this review.
Ethan Scott has finally figured out what he loves to do...cook, but his impulsivity seems to find him trouble. Enter Pam Carter of the Elk Lake City Carters, who is the personal assistant to novelist Jacob Vincent. Pam finds Ethan a job as personal chef for Jacob and his sister Ella, mostly as chef and faux body guard for Ella. Ethan and Ella got along as well as oil and water. But once they broke down the walls they've both erected, there are significant changes that occur.
I'll leave you to read just how the beast becomes the beauty, the lessons each one has to learn along the way, and the risks they have to take to find their way back to their one true love. If I haven't already said it, I LOVED this story. Ella and Ethan were the perfect pair and were so full of life and light when they let go of the darkness of their pasts. I look forward to seeing snippets of their life together in the next books in this series.
I received an advance copy of this book at my request and voluntarily left this review.
October 2, 2020
I'll admit, the first two in this collection were just okay for me. But this one?!? Ugh this one gave me all the Beauty and the Beast vibes and left me speechless and heartbroken for poor Ella. All of us want to believe that beauty is more than appearances, but unfortunately the world around us focuses mainly on what's in front of us. Ella has been left with a gruesome scar from a horrid attack and has locked her self away with her step brother to heal and protect herself. Along comes Ethan, who had been recently hired as her personal chef (also, bodyguard).
These two got off on the wrong foot, and I loved their back and forth banter, and the Disney lover in me also remembered the scene where the beast yells "Well go ahead and STARVE!!!" But I digress, this book showed both characters evolution from confronting your demons and looking for the beauty in the outside world. Definitely a hit for me.
~Paige💜
These two got off on the wrong foot, and I loved their back and forth banter, and the Disney lover in me also remembered the scene where the beast yells "Well go ahead and STARVE!!!" But I digress, this book showed both characters evolution from confronting your demons and looking for the beauty in the outside world. Definitely a hit for me.
~Paige💜
September 28, 2020
Ahhhhhh the story of Ethan and Ella. I really love stories that start with a disastrous meeting between the main characters. Look With Your Heart has a slow burn feel to it, and that makes the story so amazing.
The author has a tendency to make her characters so relatable. Ethan feels like a disappointment to his family. Ella is overcoming an attack and is dealing with a lack of self-confidence. You cannot help but cheer them on. I really loved the story. The plot was amazing, the characters are amazing, and it was easy to follow.
I will recommend this story to others.
I give it 5/5 Platypires
The author has a tendency to make her characters so relatable. Ethan feels like a disappointment to his family. Ella is overcoming an attack and is dealing with a lack of self-confidence. You cannot help but cheer them on. I really loved the story. The plot was amazing, the characters are amazing, and it was easy to follow.
I will recommend this story to others.
I give it 5/5 Platypires
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