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The One That Got Away
*A standalone second-chance romance*
Ruby Turner was never meant to be mine.
When I first met her, she was a fresh, young, American sports journalist trying to find her footing in a new life abroad. She was the one interviewing me for an article, yet I wanted to know more about her. She captivated me.
But she went home with Marco that night.
My agent.
My brother.
And I did what I could to pretend I was fine with it.
After all, I’m Luciano Ribeiro. As the captain of Real Madrid, and Portugal’s National Team, it’s my job to be cool, calm, and collected, not easily rattled.
Only what I felt for Ruby over time, shook me to my very core.
It made me do things I never imagined I would do.
It started with a stolen kiss in the middle of the night.
It led to a passionate tryst.
It created a burden of guilt that I had to carry, as Ruby came in and out of my life until she left for good, leaving her mark on me.
Now, seven years later, she’s back.
She was the one that got away.
I don’t think I’ll let her go this time.
But I might not have a choice.
Because my heart still belongs to her.
And her heart might belong to my brother.
Ruby Turner was never meant to be mine.
When I first met her, she was a fresh, young, American sports journalist trying to find her footing in a new life abroad. She was the one interviewing me for an article, yet I wanted to know more about her. She captivated me.
But she went home with Marco that night.
My agent.
My brother.
And I did what I could to pretend I was fine with it.
After all, I’m Luciano Ribeiro. As the captain of Real Madrid, and Portugal’s National Team, it’s my job to be cool, calm, and collected, not easily rattled.
Only what I felt for Ruby over time, shook me to my very core.
It made me do things I never imagined I would do.
It started with a stolen kiss in the middle of the night.
It led to a passionate tryst.
It created a burden of guilt that I had to carry, as Ruby came in and out of my life until she left for good, leaving her mark on me.
Now, seven years later, she’s back.
She was the one that got away.
I don’t think I’ll let her go this time.
But I might not have a choice.
Because my heart still belongs to her.
And her heart might belong to my brother.
392 pages, Kindle Edition
First published September 20, 2020
729 people are currently reading
2108 people want to read
About the author
Karina Halle
122 books19.6k followersKarina Halle is a screenwriter, former music & travel journalist, and the New York Times bestselling author of Grave Matter, Blood Orange, & The Royals Next Door, as well as 80 other romances across all sub-genres, ranging from spicy rom coms to gothic horror and dark fantasy. Needless to say, whatever you're into, she's probably written an HEA for it.
When she's not traveling, she, her husband, and their pup Perry, split their time between a possibly haunted 120 year-old house in Victoria, BC, and their condo in Los Angeles.
When she's not traveling, she, her husband, and their pup Perry, split their time between a possibly haunted 120 year-old house in Victoria, BC, and their condo in Los Angeles.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 263 reviews
September 25, 2020
4 stars
Ruby Turner is an American who goes to Europe to start a career as a sports blogger. Football (or soccer) is her passion and that is where she’ll be able to get the story. She ends up in Libson and scores an interview with a popular player, Luciano Ribeiro. And she starts dating his brother.
It was obvious to me that Ruby and Luciano had the chemistry and connection even more than Ruby and Marcus. I was waiting to see what direction this story would take. My nerves were on edge and I think I bit off all my nails. This story spans years and we get to see both Ruby and Luciano’s perspectives.
I’ve said it once and I'll say it again and again- I love broken characters who find healing in each other. It’s like my kryptonite and that’s exactly what happened between Ruby and Luciano. They didn’t go about trying to ‘fix’ each other, but when they were together, it just naturally happened.
Karina’s writing is fantastic as always. This book gave me so many feels and had so much angst. I loved the ending, but dang… did we have to work for it. If you’re looking for a book that will make you feel and keep you on edge, check this one out. It was a fabulous romance.
You don't contain love- love contains you.Ohhhh… this was an angsty one! Earlier this year I read and fell in love with ‘The Forbidden Man’. I met Luciano there and when I saw this was his book I was so excited! I will say, if you haven’t read ‘The Forbidden Man’, that’s okay. This can 100% be read as a stand-alone. But if you have read it I’m sure you also were ready for a Luciano book!
Ruby Turner is an American who goes to Europe to start a career as a sports blogger. Football (or soccer) is her passion and that is where she’ll be able to get the story. She ends up in Libson and scores an interview with a popular player, Luciano Ribeiro. And she starts dating his brother.
It was obvious to me that Ruby and Luciano had the chemistry and connection even more than Ruby and Marcus. I was waiting to see what direction this story would take. My nerves were on edge and I think I bit off all my nails. This story spans years and we get to see both Ruby and Luciano’s perspectives.
I’ve said it once and I'll say it again and again- I love broken characters who find healing in each other. It’s like my kryptonite and that’s exactly what happened between Ruby and Luciano. They didn’t go about trying to ‘fix’ each other, but when they were together, it just naturally happened.
I don't even want to fix you. I want to ride your broken wings.
Karina’s writing is fantastic as always. This book gave me so many feels and had so much angst. I loved the ending, but dang… did we have to work for it. If you’re looking for a book that will make you feel and keep you on edge, check this one out. It was a fabulous romance.
September 30, 2020
I’ve been wanting a book for Luciano since he was first introduced in The Forbidden Man. We knew he’d loved and lost, and now we finally get his second chance romance in The One That Got Away. And even though he’s a spinoff character, this book still holds perfectly fine as a standalone, so if you’re in the mood for an angsty, second chance, soccer romance, you’ll want to give Luciano and Ruby’s book a try!
Seven years ago, Ruby and Luciano first met when Ruby arrived in Europe to create a new life for herself, starting with interviewing soccer players for her fledgling blog. With her luck, she gets five minutes with rising star Luciano Ribeiro, and they feel a connection from the moment they meet. Unfortunately, Ruby has already accepted a date with Luciano’s brother/agent Marco right before their meeting. So Luciano steps aside, even though he knows that Ruby should be with him, and their angsty, years-long romance begins.
Going into this, I expected a second chance romance that starts during the present day. So I was surprised when we start the book seven years ago and when our main characters first meet and fall in (forbidden) love. This did change up the dynamics for me and made it feel less like a second chance romance and more like any normal romance, albeit still a little forbidden and soccer related. Ruby is an interesting heroine – she begins the book doing something I would never have the guts to do, which is leave everything and everyone behind to start a new life in a completely different country. For that, I admired her, but I do have to say I grew frustrated with her reasons for not being with Luciano. I was hurting for these two but also wanted them to get over themselves and get back together.
It’s very much an up and down kind of emotional roller coaster with The One That Got Away. I COULD NOT put this book down – I finished it in a day, needing to know how the romance finally works out. If you love romances with a ton of push and pull, you’ll enjoy Ruby and Luciano. And if you loved some of Karina Halle’s past romance like Love, in English and The Forbidden Man, we get some lovely cameos with our favorite couples!
Seven years ago, Ruby and Luciano first met when Ruby arrived in Europe to create a new life for herself, starting with interviewing soccer players for her fledgling blog. With her luck, she gets five minutes with rising star Luciano Ribeiro, and they feel a connection from the moment they meet. Unfortunately, Ruby has already accepted a date with Luciano’s brother/agent Marco right before their meeting. So Luciano steps aside, even though he knows that Ruby should be with him, and their angsty, years-long romance begins.
Going into this, I expected a second chance romance that starts during the present day. So I was surprised when we start the book seven years ago and when our main characters first meet and fall in (forbidden) love. This did change up the dynamics for me and made it feel less like a second chance romance and more like any normal romance, albeit still a little forbidden and soccer related. Ruby is an interesting heroine – she begins the book doing something I would never have the guts to do, which is leave everything and everyone behind to start a new life in a completely different country. For that, I admired her, but I do have to say I grew frustrated with her reasons for not being with Luciano. I was hurting for these two but also wanted them to get over themselves and get back together.
It’s very much an up and down kind of emotional roller coaster with The One That Got Away. I COULD NOT put this book down – I finished it in a day, needing to know how the romance finally works out. If you love romances with a ton of push and pull, you’ll enjoy Ruby and Luciano. And if you loved some of Karina Halle’s past romance like Love, in English and The Forbidden Man, we get some lovely cameos with our favorite couples!
September 21, 2020
Short review: The heroine ruined the book.
Longer review: The heroine is selfish, irresponsible, immature, stubborn, unrealistic and stupid. Those are some "qualities" that I cannot relate to. I really don't see what the Ribeiro brothers saw in her. And maybe I'm stupid, but I really don't understand why Ruby and Luciano couldn't be together right from the very beginning.
I used to love Karina Halle's books, especially those set in various countries. I travel a lot, I even travelled as a student and visited the majority of the places mentioned in her books.
I used to love Karina's writing. Remember Love, in English? (Granted, I didn't like that heroine either but the angst and the atmosphere in that book sticks with you for a very long time.) But then The Lie happened. And Bad at Love. It felt like the Karina's writing lost its magic for me. I stopped reading her books.
I couldn't resist this one. I love football. I love Lisbon. I thought this would be a jackpot. No such luck.
Maybe my rating is too harsh. The writing is definitely good. The characterization is well-done. The story is not so bad either, if you manage to get past the hideous heroine. But more than two stars would mean I liked the book, which would be a lie. Thanks to the heroine.
I'm going to repeat that cliche phrase we love to use: I'm in the minority here. Chances are you will love it.
**************************
FOOTBALL, you say?
Real Madrid?
Portugal’s National Team?
UNREQUITED love?
And it is the HERO who's doing the suffering?
September 20, 2020
4.5 'Lost and stumbling' Stars!
ARC provided via Valentine PR in exchange for an honest review.
As one of Karina Halle’s fans, I’ve been impatiently waiting for this story ever since we met the charismatic Luciano in The Forbidden Man. And boy! Karina has delivered. I love this woman’s books but I was not expecting that big of a roller coaster ride with this one. I have to say, I was thoroughly surprised. Forbidden, angsty, dramatic, sexy, romantic and full of ups and downs, The One That Got Away is second-chance romance gold!
This is Karina’s newest standalone release. The One That Got Away can sure be read as that but it is highly related to The Forbidden Man and I do recommend reading that one as well. This is the forbidden love story between Luciano Ribeiro, the star player in a Portuguese team and Ruby Turner, a new journalist who is travelling through Europe. Both these characters are broken by their pasts and their relationships with their families and that gets even more complicated when Ruby starts dating Luciano’s brother. Sparks are there from the start but is that enough? Will love win or are there too many obstacles for Luciano and Ruby to be together?
He makes me want to pull the mask off the both of us, let us sink in our flaws, open our wounds and see what good can come out of it.
He makes me feel less of a ghost, like I’m something tangible and real.
I don’t even know what to write because I am drained after reading this novel. Karina did a brilliant job with these characters and their love story and people are not even ready for what is to come. There is a love triangle, forbidden chemistry, feelings all over the place, full on angst, family drama and, what’s most important, a couple that loves each other through everything. I love this kind of stories that happen through different times/ages because we see the characters evolution and how that affects their relationships.
Let me stay.
I don’t even want to fix you. I want to ride your broken wings.
It’s not easy for Luciano and Ruby being attracted to each other but their connection is impossible to miss. It annoyed me a bit the back and forth between them and Marco (Luciano’s brother) but I got past it with everything going on. My poor heart broke for Luciano when we see how he is treated by his stepdad and how Ruby has to suffer for her situation with her parents and being alone all over Europe. Years go by but their burning chemistry doesn’t go away and that turns into a beautiful love that will live on forever.
We don’t contain our love, our love contains us.
And now, finally, it contains us together.
Forever.
Therefore, I am rating The One That Got Away with 4.5 STARS because Karina simply has done a magnificent job with this highly emotional love story. It was completely different from what she has given us this year and I loved that. Luciano and Ruby are so amazing together and it’s so clear they just belong to each other from the very start. As I said, this was second-chance romance gold so be sure to check it out, bookies!
CHECK OUT MY BLOG HERE:
ARC provided via Valentine PR in exchange for an honest review.
As one of Karina Halle’s fans, I’ve been impatiently waiting for this story ever since we met the charismatic Luciano in The Forbidden Man. And boy! Karina has delivered. I love this woman’s books but I was not expecting that big of a roller coaster ride with this one. I have to say, I was thoroughly surprised. Forbidden, angsty, dramatic, sexy, romantic and full of ups and downs, The One That Got Away is second-chance romance gold!
This is Karina’s newest standalone release. The One That Got Away can sure be read as that but it is highly related to The Forbidden Man and I do recommend reading that one as well. This is the forbidden love story between Luciano Ribeiro, the star player in a Portuguese team and Ruby Turner, a new journalist who is travelling through Europe. Both these characters are broken by their pasts and their relationships with their families and that gets even more complicated when Ruby starts dating Luciano’s brother. Sparks are there from the start but is that enough? Will love win or are there too many obstacles for Luciano and Ruby to be together?
He makes me want to pull the mask off the both of us, let us sink in our flaws, open our wounds and see what good can come out of it.
He makes me feel less of a ghost, like I’m something tangible and real.
I don’t even know what to write because I am drained after reading this novel. Karina did a brilliant job with these characters and their love story and people are not even ready for what is to come. There is a love triangle, forbidden chemistry, feelings all over the place, full on angst, family drama and, what’s most important, a couple that loves each other through everything. I love this kind of stories that happen through different times/ages because we see the characters evolution and how that affects their relationships.
Let me stay.
I don’t even want to fix you. I want to ride your broken wings.
It’s not easy for Luciano and Ruby being attracted to each other but their connection is impossible to miss. It annoyed me a bit the back and forth between them and Marco (Luciano’s brother) but I got past it with everything going on. My poor heart broke for Luciano when we see how he is treated by his stepdad and how Ruby has to suffer for her situation with her parents and being alone all over Europe. Years go by but their burning chemistry doesn’t go away and that turns into a beautiful love that will live on forever.
We don’t contain our love, our love contains us.
And now, finally, it contains us together.
Forever.
Therefore, I am rating The One That Got Away with 4.5 STARS because Karina simply has done a magnificent job with this highly emotional love story. It was completely different from what she has given us this year and I loved that. Luciano and Ruby are so amazing together and it’s so clear they just belong to each other from the very start. As I said, this was second-chance romance gold so be sure to check it out, bookies!
CHECK OUT MY BLOG HERE:
September 23, 2020
I always feel bad about judging a character in a story, because my "right" not necessarily will be yours. Besides, if people can make mistakes, so can characters. 🤷🏽♀️
Therefore, I try to focus on other things. The way a story makes me feel is the most important. Then comes engaging writing, chemistry and plausibility.
The One That Got Away made my principle very difficult.
Very, very difficult.
The heroine killed my reading enjoyment with her attitude. It was too many bad decisions, one after the other. And then at 85%
Ruby made another bad move that surpassed all the others.
What the actual fuck, Ruby girl?
Last but not the least, what was that about all jumping in time?? One, two, three times? I seriously don't know how I finish this.
I'm splashing 2 stars because the smex was good.
Therefore, I try to focus on other things. The way a story makes me feel is the most important. Then comes engaging writing, chemistry and plausibility.
The One That Got Away made my principle very difficult.
Very, very difficult.
The heroine killed my reading enjoyment with her attitude. It was too many bad decisions, one after the other. And then at 85%
Ruby made another bad move that surpassed all the others.
What the actual fuck, Ruby girl?
Last but not the least, what was that about all jumping in time?? One, two, three times? I seriously don't know how I finish this.
I'm splashing 2 stars because the smex was good.
September 20, 2020
3.5 angst-filled stars
I have SO many mixed feelings about this book! On one hand, it’s an epic love story – a second-chance-romance full of chemistry, passion and emotion. On the other hand, it’s a story full of stupid decisions, drama and angst. The whole time I read, I was riding a fine line of mad love, heartbreak and infuriating rage. It’s an emotional rollercoaster that spans 12+ years, and wow, what a ride.
This book follows on from one of my fave reads from last year, The Younger Man. Luciano was introduced in The Younger Man, and the characters from that book make an appearance in this one, but this book easily stands alone, and you’re completely safe to dive into it without having read anything else (though you should read it, because it’s awesome!).
After her dreams of a soccer career were shattered following an injury, Ruby has left her life in Texas behind, determined to put her demons behind her and create a life for herself in Europe. She has thrown herself into sports journalism, and is determined to make a name for herself reporting on the sport she still loves, and has arrived in Portugal to do just that.
We know Luciano Ribeiro from The Younger Man as the captain of soccer team, Real Madrid, and the captain of Portugal’s national team. But here, we meet him 12 years earlier when he is dealing with his own injury, and is working hard to get his place back with Lisbon’s local team. He’s a man with his own demons, but his eyes are set firmly on football success.
Luciano and Ruby meet when she interviews him, and they share an instant connection. They get each other. They openly and honestly share about their lives and their pasts, and over time they become friends. But Ruby is dating Luciano’s brother and agent, Marco, so nothing happens between them. But they continue to grow close, sharing their pain and their joy, truly seeing each other and not the masks that they wear in public. It has the feel of a beautiful slow-burning relationship - without the relationship - and despite their feelings they keep things strictly platonic. Until they don’t.
It’s hot, intense, and super freaking sexy. But it’s over before it even gets a chance to start. Over the following years, Luciano and Ruby come in and out of each other’s lives. They fall in love, their hearts are broken, and through every moment, we feel their chemistry, the depth and intensity of the emotion between them, and we get to witness their steamy hot passion that is such an important part of their connection. Their love is epic, but far from easy, and this rollercoaster is an angsty ride.
As much as I love angst when it works to build a story, in this case, it became overwhelming because so much of the angst was avoidable! At first, I was on board because part of Ruby’s charm is that she’s this vibrant, impetuous person. She’s a self-declared hot mess and she’s still figuring herself out, and I can absolutely relate to that. She made some bad decisions, but everybody has, that’s just life. But the big conflict seemed a bit contrived, the bad guy just a little too evil, and even after that, silly decisions continued to be made that had me groaning out loud . It could have been resolved SO much easier and quicker than it was, and I found it so frustrating!
Luciano and Ruby are fantastic characters. They have their flaws and they make mistakes, but they’re real, and as much as they ticked me off at times, I couldn’t help but love them, love with them and break with them, and I wish that their story was so much easier than the one they got. Luciano, in particular, completely stole my heart as a man madly in love. I swooned so many times, and holy hot damn, the man is sexy! He’s a wonderful hero, and just the man that Ruby needs, and I did love them together.
It’s angsty, but it’s an epic love. You know that these two are perfect together, and every moment that they spend together is so, so special. It’s not the story that I wanted for them, but they got there in the end, and I was thankful for the happy ending.
I loved so much about it, but this one pushed me just a little too far. 3.5 stars.
An Advanced Review Copy was generously provided by the author in exchange for an honest review.
I have SO many mixed feelings about this book! On one hand, it’s an epic love story – a second-chance-romance full of chemistry, passion and emotion. On the other hand, it’s a story full of stupid decisions, drama and angst. The whole time I read, I was riding a fine line of mad love, heartbreak and infuriating rage. It’s an emotional rollercoaster that spans 12+ years, and wow, what a ride.
This book follows on from one of my fave reads from last year, The Younger Man. Luciano was introduced in The Younger Man, and the characters from that book make an appearance in this one, but this book easily stands alone, and you’re completely safe to dive into it without having read anything else (though you should read it, because it’s awesome!).
After her dreams of a soccer career were shattered following an injury, Ruby has left her life in Texas behind, determined to put her demons behind her and create a life for herself in Europe. She has thrown herself into sports journalism, and is determined to make a name for herself reporting on the sport she still loves, and has arrived in Portugal to do just that.
We know Luciano Ribeiro from The Younger Man as the captain of soccer team, Real Madrid, and the captain of Portugal’s national team. But here, we meet him 12 years earlier when he is dealing with his own injury, and is working hard to get his place back with Lisbon’s local team. He’s a man with his own demons, but his eyes are set firmly on football success.
Luciano and Ruby meet when she interviews him, and they share an instant connection. They get each other. They openly and honestly share about their lives and their pasts, and over time they become friends. But Ruby is dating Luciano’s brother and agent, Marco, so nothing happens between them. But they continue to grow close, sharing their pain and their joy, truly seeing each other and not the masks that they wear in public. It has the feel of a beautiful slow-burning relationship - without the relationship - and despite their feelings they keep things strictly platonic. Until they don’t.
I feel for him. Something. Everything.
In every way.
“I want you,” I manage to say against his lips. “I need you.”
He pauses, just enough to look me in the eyes. Fire flashes in them and I see myself in the flames, burning along with him.
“You have me. You always have.”
It’s hot, intense, and super freaking sexy. But it’s over before it even gets a chance to start. Over the following years, Luciano and Ruby come in and out of each other’s lives. They fall in love, their hearts are broken, and through every moment, we feel their chemistry, the depth and intensity of the emotion between them, and we get to witness their steamy hot passion that is such an important part of their connection. Their love is epic, but far from easy, and this rollercoaster is an angsty ride.
“We’re all a little lost on this planet, stumbling around on cascading years, trying to make sense of it all.”
She glances at me, her eyes glistening in such a way that it hurts my heart. “Then I don’t want to do it alone. I want to be lost and stumbling with you.”
As much as I love angst when it works to build a story, in this case, it became overwhelming because so much of the angst was avoidable! At first, I was on board because part of Ruby’s charm is that she’s this vibrant, impetuous person. She’s a self-declared hot mess and she’s still figuring herself out, and I can absolutely relate to that. She made some bad decisions, but everybody has, that’s just life. But the big conflict seemed a bit contrived, the bad guy just a little too evil, and even after that, silly decisions continued to be made that had me groaning out loud . It could have been resolved SO much easier and quicker than it was, and I found it so frustrating!
I don’t even want to fix you. I want to ride your broken wings.
Luciano and Ruby are fantastic characters. They have their flaws and they make mistakes, but they’re real, and as much as they ticked me off at times, I couldn’t help but love them, love with them and break with them, and I wish that their story was so much easier than the one they got. Luciano, in particular, completely stole my heart as a man madly in love. I swooned so many times, and holy hot damn, the man is sexy! He’s a wonderful hero, and just the man that Ruby needs, and I did love them together.
Give me your heart, Ruby. Give me your heart, because you already have mine.
It’s angsty, but it’s an epic love. You know that these two are perfect together, and every moment that they spend together is so, so special. It’s not the story that I wanted for them, but they got there in the end, and I was thankful for the happy ending.
We’re raw and messy and lost and found but what we’ve always been is real.
What we’ve always been is us.
I loved so much about it, but this one pushed me just a little too far. 3.5 stars.
An Advanced Review Copy was generously provided by the author in exchange for an honest review.
September 27, 2020
Oh so not my cuppa! I detested the lead female -- such a mess from head to toe. I couldn't make myself like her -- even though I think I know how the author was trying to present her. It still didn't work for me. And their relationship was such a $hit-show. Ruby, Ruby, Ruby you are not a very nice girl - a bit of a user, well maybe even more than a bit. And the time line of twelve years and Luciano and Ruby are simply just a sex over substance situation every three, seven or nine years. There wasn't much depth to their love story unless you put all your eggs into one basket -- that being sex. And that got old after awhile -- repetitious and dirty and ugly. And the whole relationship with Tomas (the evil stepfather) just felt weak and loosely strung together. I actually felt a little nauseous even thinking about poor Luciano - a fairly decent guy who was used and abused by his family and then had to go and fall for a complete nut-job, his total opposite -- immature and obnoxiously rude and, of course, her back and forth mingling with Luciano's stepbrother was the icing on the cake that turned everything foul, stinky and rotten for me.
Yep, I find myself in the minority once again -- and this time I make no excuses. I stand by my reactions and opinions and feel quite comfortable in doing so. Only thing I feel needs any kind of apology for is this messy and mangled review. But I didn't want to spend any more time than necessary to drop my bomb and bid adios to this book and its characters.
Yep, I find myself in the minority once again -- and this time I make no excuses. I stand by my reactions and opinions and feel quite comfortable in doing so. Only thing I feel needs any kind of apology for is this messy and mangled review. But I didn't want to spend any more time than necessary to drop my bomb and bid adios to this book and its characters.
July 3, 2021
The One That Got Away is full of angst. The signature of Miss Halle' writing. It could be a very good book.
For me, what is missing is the reason behind the angst/ drama of seperation. The reason Ruby left Luciano, is not too angsy. I also need more dramatic/ heartbreaking moments between Luciano and Marco and the stepfather. Luciano ans Marco relationship is so distant and cold. I do not understand Luciano's guilt for having feeling toward Ruby while dating Marco.
And the reason the stepfather hates Luciano seems silly to me.
Overall, the writing is good aa always. Just need more content.
3 stars
For me, what is missing is the reason behind the angst/ drama of seperation. The reason Ruby left Luciano, is not too angsy. I also need more dramatic/ heartbreaking moments between Luciano and Marco and the stepfather. Luciano ans Marco relationship is so distant and cold. I do not understand Luciano's guilt for having feeling toward Ruby while dating Marco.
And the reason the stepfather hates Luciano seems silly to me.
Overall, the writing is good aa always. Just need more content.
3 stars
September 22, 2020
Genre: Contemporary Romance
Type: Standalone
POV: First Person - Dual
Rating:
Ruby Turner had a dream of becoming a sports journalist which led her to the heart of the action in Portugal. Instead of advancing her career, her heart was unexpectedly tangled with the star player of Sporting team, Luciano Ribeiro. But things were not meant to be. They had to make tough choices that could either make them or break them.
I was drawn to Luciano when he first appeared in The Forbidden Man. I’m glad to finally read his story. I like Ruby’s free spirit, though at times she could be reckless. I loved the detailed background of both of the characters and how they were connected in a way that only they could understand.
I enjoyed the storyline that spanned several years paired with the enticing ambiance of European cities. The story was mild in the first 75% or so but got more intense and emotional towards the end. The sex scenes were hot, especially with the semi forbidden element.
The One That Got Away is a story of taking risks for love. It would appeal to readers who enjoy a Second Chance Romance.
For more reviews/interviews/promo visit:
Type: Standalone
POV: First Person - Dual
Rating:
Ruby Turner had a dream of becoming a sports journalist which led her to the heart of the action in Portugal. Instead of advancing her career, her heart was unexpectedly tangled with the star player of Sporting team, Luciano Ribeiro. But things were not meant to be. They had to make tough choices that could either make them or break them.
I was drawn to Luciano when he first appeared in The Forbidden Man. I’m glad to finally read his story. I like Ruby’s free spirit, though at times she could be reckless. I loved the detailed background of both of the characters and how they were connected in a way that only they could understand.
Sometimes she seems so wild and unrooted that I’m scrambling to take hold, like reaching for the string before the balloon floats away, never to return.
I enjoyed the storyline that spanned several years paired with the enticing ambiance of European cities. The story was mild in the first 75% or so but got more intense and emotional towards the end. The sex scenes were hot, especially with the semi forbidden element.
The One That Got Away is a story of taking risks for love. It would appeal to readers who enjoy a Second Chance Romance.
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August 13, 2021
3.5 stars
I love Karina Halle and The Forbidden Man is one of my favorite books by her. This is a spin-off standalone of that story and is about Luciano, who's a soccer player. I was so excited to read this second chance romance and the first half was five stars for me. Ruby moves to Europe to pursue her dream of being a sports journalist and the first person she manages to get an exclusive interview with is Luciano, who is currently injured and working his way back to playing again. There's a bit of a love triangle between Ruby, Luciano, and his brother/agent Marcus. The angst between Ruby and Luciano was amazing and I loved it. But then were had not one but TWO time jumps and I seriously lost interest in this story. Too much time was passing and I was annoyed for the characters, especially Ruby, for not just trusting Luciano and confiding in him. Ughhhhh. This one had so much potential, but because the romance was dragged out over almost ten years, I just wasn't the biggest fan.
I love Karina Halle and The Forbidden Man is one of my favorite books by her. This is a spin-off standalone of that story and is about Luciano, who's a soccer player. I was so excited to read this second chance romance and the first half was five stars for me. Ruby moves to Europe to pursue her dream of being a sports journalist and the first person she manages to get an exclusive interview with is Luciano, who is currently injured and working his way back to playing again. There's a bit of a love triangle between Ruby, Luciano, and his brother/agent Marcus. The angst between Ruby and Luciano was amazing and I loved it. But then were had not one but TWO time jumps and I seriously lost interest in this story. Too much time was passing and I was annoyed for the characters, especially Ruby, for not just trusting Luciano and confiding in him. Ughhhhh. This one had so much potential, but because the romance was dragged out over almost ten years, I just wasn't the biggest fan.
September 19, 2020
**ARC provided in exchange for an honest review**
- 3.5 stars -
The hero Luciano was introduced in The Forbidden Man and I was excited when I saw that Karina Halle was writing his story. The One That Got Away is a second-chance romance about two characters that are dealing with trauma. My heart went out to both Luciano and Ruby, and even though from the outside they seemed the opposite, there was a lot of things they had in common. I loved how they met and how their relationship developed. Her being with her brother Marco first didn't really bother me that much, because there wasn't a very strong emotional connection between the two. I was really happy that the author decided to write the book with a linear narrative instead of flashbacks. The story had a very steady pace and was straight to the point.
The first three quarters of the book this book was a solid four star read for me. I enjoyed seeing the characters grow closer together and develop a stronger connection. I especially loved Luciano's character, I had a harder time connecting to Ruby but there were aspects of her life I could relate to. The only reason I rated this book three and a half stars is because of the last quarter of the book. It just felt very rushed and left me unsatisfied. I wanted more from the story and see the characters get to know each other again after all the years they were apart. There was just so much going on in the last part and it was over before I knew it. Overall I enjoyed this emotional contemporary second-chance romance, and I look forward to Karina's next book.
- 3.5 stars -
The hero Luciano was introduced in The Forbidden Man and I was excited when I saw that Karina Halle was writing his story. The One That Got Away is a second-chance romance about two characters that are dealing with trauma. My heart went out to both Luciano and Ruby, and even though from the outside they seemed the opposite, there was a lot of things they had in common. I loved how they met and how their relationship developed. Her being with her brother Marco first didn't really bother me that much, because there wasn't a very strong emotional connection between the two. I was really happy that the author decided to write the book with a linear narrative instead of flashbacks. The story had a very steady pace and was straight to the point.
The first three quarters of the book this book was a solid four star read for me. I enjoyed seeing the characters grow closer together and develop a stronger connection. I especially loved Luciano's character, I had a harder time connecting to Ruby but there were aspects of her life I could relate to. The only reason I rated this book three and a half stars is because of the last quarter of the book. It just felt very rushed and left me unsatisfied. I wanted more from the story and see the characters get to know each other again after all the years they were apart. There was just so much going on in the last part and it was over before I knew it. Overall I enjoyed this emotional contemporary second-chance romance, and I look forward to Karina's next book.
November 20, 2020
So I'm not keen on the Hero or heroine being intimate with one person then their sibling but I've read this author before so I gave it a try.
The heroine is traveling, stopping off at different places for a while and she meets two brothers, she likes one more than the other but the Hero's brother asks her out for a meal and they end up dating.
It's only seen as a temp thing as the heroine has plans to move on and their relationship seems to based mostly on sex, the Hero knows more about her and her family etc than the brother.
The Hero and heroine are attracted to each other but can't really see a way to be together even if she breaks up with the brother.
By the way, the brother cheats on her but she doesn't know.
Neither are celibate during separation.
The heroine says she was seeing someone but it didn't work out.
The Hero says "I’ve had a few flings and one-night stands since I was with her, but they’re not worth mentioning, or even remembering.".
There are no details of their other relationships.
No intimate scenes other than the Hero and heroine but the heroine does mention some bits and pieces that relate to the fact she and the Hero's brother are having sex when they were all friends.
The book is in three parts.
In part 2 they reconnect decide on a future together but his step dad stops it, except the Hero doesn't know.
In part 3 they reconnect again only his brother thinks he's in love with her and she's sort of dating the brother but no sex.
Part 3 pushed it over the edge for me, to go from one brother to the other is a difficult step for me but then to go back to the original brother... I just can't....
I'm not sure in which world the heroine thought it was a good idea.
"I wanted to see you.”
“Oh you did? So, you thought dating my brother would be the way to go about that. Again.”
“It’s not serious. I haven’t even slept with him.”
“You’re planning on it.”
I give Luciano a look. “He’s supposed to get me closer to you. I just thought a few dates would be…easy. I need a friend, okay?”"
Admittedly she didn't realize the Hero was in love with her but it's pretty heartless to turn up again as his brother's girl.
HEA.
Epilogue.
The heroine is traveling, stopping off at different places for a while and she meets two brothers, she likes one more than the other but the Hero's brother asks her out for a meal and they end up dating.
It's only seen as a temp thing as the heroine has plans to move on and their relationship seems to based mostly on sex, the Hero knows more about her and her family etc than the brother.
The Hero and heroine are attracted to each other but can't really see a way to be together even if she breaks up with the brother.
By the way, the brother cheats on her but she doesn't know.
Neither are celibate during separation.
The heroine says she was seeing someone but it didn't work out.
The Hero says "I’ve had a few flings and one-night stands since I was with her, but they’re not worth mentioning, or even remembering.".
There are no details of their other relationships.
No intimate scenes other than the Hero and heroine but the heroine does mention some bits and pieces that relate to the fact she and the Hero's brother are having sex when they were all friends.
The book is in three parts.
In part 2 they reconnect decide on a future together but his step dad stops it, except the Hero doesn't know.
In part 3 they reconnect again only his brother thinks he's in love with her and she's sort of dating the brother but no sex.
Part 3 pushed it over the edge for me, to go from one brother to the other is a difficult step for me but then to go back to the original brother... I just can't....
I'm not sure in which world the heroine thought it was a good idea.
"I wanted to see you.”
“Oh you did? So, you thought dating my brother would be the way to go about that. Again.”
“It’s not serious. I haven’t even slept with him.”
“You’re planning on it.”
I give Luciano a look. “He’s supposed to get me closer to you. I just thought a few dates would be…easy. I need a friend, okay?”"
Admittedly she didn't realize the Hero was in love with her but it's pretty heartless to turn up again as his brother's girl.
HEA.
Epilogue.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
October 31, 2020
4 ⭐'s
“It’s always been real.”
We finally get Luciano's story. If you've read the related stories, you know that he's always been a bit of a mystery so it was great getting to know what's been going on.
Luciano met Ruby nine years ago but unfortunately, Ruby started dating his brother, Marco, even though she had a great connection with Luciano.
Luciano and Ruby try to stay away from each other or rather Luciano does but then Marco asks Luciano to hire Ruby as his assistant as she is having money problems.
As Luciano and Ruby become closer, they find out more about each other.
There's some drama and Ruby ends up leaving the country. Happily, she comes back two years later and they see each other at a club. Nothing has changed and since Marco is out of the picture, they get together.
It doesn't last long and believe it or not, the drama is even more intense and it takes seven more years until they see each other again.
I wish I could say that was the end of the drama and that it doesn't get any crazier but I can't. And it was a little farfetched but I was happy with the way things finally worked out.
“It’s always been real.”
We finally get Luciano's story. If you've read the related stories, you know that he's always been a bit of a mystery so it was great getting to know what's been going on.
Luciano met Ruby nine years ago but unfortunately, Ruby started dating his brother, Marco, even though she had a great connection with Luciano.
Luciano and Ruby try to stay away from each other or rather Luciano does but then Marco asks Luciano to hire Ruby as his assistant as she is having money problems.
As Luciano and Ruby become closer, they find out more about each other.
There's some drama and Ruby ends up leaving the country. Happily, she comes back two years later and they see each other at a club. Nothing has changed and since Marco is out of the picture, they get together.
It doesn't last long and believe it or not, the drama is even more intense and it takes seven more years until they see each other again.
I wish I could say that was the end of the drama and that it doesn't get any crazier but I can't. And it was a little farfetched but I was happy with the way things finally worked out.
October 9, 2020
1 Star
DNF 75%
Skim to the end
This author is hit or miss for me and this one was a huge miss. Heroine ruined the book for me. She is one of the worst heroines I’ve read to date and that says something. Hence the 1 star rating.
DNF 75%
Skim to the end
This author is hit or miss for me and this one was a huge miss. Heroine ruined the book for me. She is one of the worst heroines I’ve read to date and that says something. Hence the 1 star rating.
September 23, 2020
I love this author but unfortunately this one didn't work for me. I did a buddy read on this one (and thank God I did cause I had someone to text about all the unnecessary angst!).
I'd like to start with positives, cause always good to mention something good! The writing is very beautiful and unique. I love it and I love how it makes me feel. Luciano was a special man and I loved him.
I didn't like Ruby. I couldn't get over the fact that she chose the brother first (sex and all), then 2 years later, leaves Luciano without telling him the truth and ignores him consistently, then comes back dating his brother (no sex, but still kissing) AND she finally grows up with Luciano tells her he loves her.
When Luciano asks her why she's dating his brother again she says 'safe bet' 'safe bet from who?' 'you'. And he blows up shouting 'Do you think about anyone but yourself?' then she runs away crying and he apologises. I agree with him. Ruby is very self-centred and I didn't see growth from her. At all. In part 3, had she told Marco lets be friends, I would've seen growth, but to date and kiss him cause she's lonely and it's easy is extremely heartless to a man you supposedly love.
I agree with him. Even if she was lonely, why couldn't she think for once 'I don't want to hurt Luciano.' and even if she thought he had no feelings, she KNEW he did 7 years ago. Not once did she think about how her actions were hurting Luciano and he was hurt for 7 freaking years.
I disliked her character so thoroughly, that I couldn't enjoy the book.
Once Luciano says he loves her and they make love and they want to be together, she thinks this of Marco:
I get you're not perfect. I get it. But how much pain does she have to put Luciano in? Why does she have to ALWAYS choose the option that hurts him the most?
In the end... when you hate one of the characters (who never, in my opinion, understands the severity of her actions), I just disliked the book, immensely.
Again, it could be a me thing ... there are many positive reviews too :)
I'd like to start with positives, cause always good to mention something good! The writing is very beautiful and unique. I love it and I love how it makes me feel. Luciano was a special man and I loved him.
I didn't like Ruby. I couldn't get over the fact that she chose the brother first (sex and all), then 2 years later, leaves Luciano without telling him the truth and ignores him consistently, then comes back dating his brother (no sex, but still kissing) AND she finally grows up with Luciano tells her he loves her.
When Luciano asks her why she's dating his brother again she says 'safe bet' 'safe bet from who?' 'you'. And he blows up shouting 'Do you think about anyone but yourself?' then she runs away crying and he apologises. I agree with him. Ruby is very self-centred and I didn't see growth from her. At all. In part 3, had she told Marco lets be friends, I would've seen growth, but to date and kiss him cause she's lonely and it's easy is extremely heartless to a man you supposedly love.
I agree with him. Even if she was lonely, why couldn't she think for once 'I don't want to hurt Luciano.' and even if she thought he had no feelings, she KNEW he did 7 years ago. Not once did she think about how her actions were hurting Luciano and he was hurt for 7 freaking years.
I disliked her character so thoroughly, that I couldn't enjoy the book.
Once Luciano says he loves her and they make love and they want to be together, she thinks this of Marco:
I get you're not perfect. I get it. But how much pain does she have to put Luciano in? Why does she have to ALWAYS choose the option that hurts him the most?
In the end... when you hate one of the characters (who never, in my opinion, understands the severity of her actions), I just disliked the book, immensely.
Again, it could be a me thing ... there are many positive reviews too :)
September 17, 2020
➳ Rate: +5/ 5 stars
I knew this book was going to be special to me because the hero is Portuguese but I had no idea how much. Luciano and Ruby were so freaking special! Just thinking about their whole journey makes me tear up. They went through SO much, my poor heart could barely take it.
We knew a little bit about Luciano's history with Ruby from what he told Alejo in The Forbidden Man but oh boy that one glimpse was nothing compared to the whole picture. And I'm so glad we got to see the whole picture, from the first moment they met to seeing every single thing unfold. It was a lot. These two had such a hard journey towards happiness but omg was it worth it!
As I'm writing this, everything is playing like a movie reel in my head and I'm not okay ahah. When I say these two were special, I mean it. There is just something about them. They are two lost souls that each have family issues and they find each other and they just click together. It's so beyond superficial ever since the first time they meet. But of course there is so much that is in the way of them becoming more than friends. Above all, Ruby is dating Marcos, Luciano's brother. But their connection and their chemistry speaks so loud that when the opportunity arrives, they can't deny each other. It was only supposed to be one night, they fought they could forget each other, they were wrong.
Sometime later, when they meet again everything is still there. They think fate is on their side this time and that they'll be able to give a relationship a go but fate is a fickle thing and he plays them. There are too many forces trying to bring them apart. And your heart will break alongside theirs. But that wasn't even the most emotional thing for me, oh no, it was when they see each other again years after. My goodness the emotions were so high. It was so amazingly written. I felt everything alongside both of them and it hurt. Those scenes were just so emotional and powerful. Their pain, their love really flew off the pages. You could feel it straight in your heart.
Ahh these two. I miss them already and I already want to reread their story. It packs a punch. They never get a break. It's one thing after the other and it takes them years to find their way back to each other. Just all that time they couldn't be together gets to me so much but once they find a way, they make up for all the lost time, they make it all worth. Seriously, the love they have for each other was just amazing to read and Karina did such an amazing job telling their story and she gave them such a good ending. My heart was happy. It was just such a great ending for them. I was emo. It was painful but I lvoed every single second of these two's story, truly. Luciano and Ruby are a couple I won't soon forget. I love them.
➳Early arc kindly provided by author, in exchange for an honest review.
➳ Order at: Amazon UK ⁕ Amazon US
➳ Follow me on: Blog ⁕ Instagram ⁕ Facebook ⁕ Twitter
I knew this book was going to be special to me because the hero is Portuguese but I had no idea how much. Luciano and Ruby were so freaking special! Just thinking about their whole journey makes me tear up. They went through SO much, my poor heart could barely take it.
We knew a little bit about Luciano's history with Ruby from what he told Alejo in The Forbidden Man but oh boy that one glimpse was nothing compared to the whole picture. And I'm so glad we got to see the whole picture, from the first moment they met to seeing every single thing unfold. It was a lot. These two had such a hard journey towards happiness but omg was it worth it!
As I'm writing this, everything is playing like a movie reel in my head and I'm not okay ahah. When I say these two were special, I mean it. There is just something about them. They are two lost souls that each have family issues and they find each other and they just click together. It's so beyond superficial ever since the first time they meet. But of course there is so much that is in the way of them becoming more than friends. Above all, Ruby is dating Marcos, Luciano's brother. But their connection and their chemistry speaks so loud that when the opportunity arrives, they can't deny each other. It was only supposed to be one night, they fought they could forget each other, they were wrong.
Sometime later, when they meet again everything is still there. They think fate is on their side this time and that they'll be able to give a relationship a go but fate is a fickle thing and he plays them. There are too many forces trying to bring them apart. And your heart will break alongside theirs. But that wasn't even the most emotional thing for me, oh no, it was when they see each other again years after. My goodness the emotions were so high. It was so amazingly written. I felt everything alongside both of them and it hurt. Those scenes were just so emotional and powerful. Their pain, their love really flew off the pages. You could feel it straight in your heart.
Ahh these two. I miss them already and I already want to reread their story. It packs a punch. They never get a break. It's one thing after the other and it takes them years to find their way back to each other. Just all that time they couldn't be together gets to me so much but once they find a way, they make up for all the lost time, they make it all worth. Seriously, the love they have for each other was just amazing to read and Karina did such an amazing job telling their story and she gave them such a good ending. My heart was happy. It was just such a great ending for them. I was emo. It was painful but I lvoed every single second of these two's story, truly. Luciano and Ruby are a couple I won't soon forget. I love them.
➳Early arc kindly provided by author, in exchange for an honest review.
➳ Order at: Amazon UK ⁕ Amazon US
➳ Follow me on: Blog ⁕ Instagram ⁕ Facebook ⁕ Twitter
September 25, 2020
Woohoo
FINALLY
FINALLY
Want to read
March 2, 2020OMG I'm so excited!!!
September 17, 2020
Angst. Swoon. And more angst. The One That Got Away by Karina Halle is one of those stories to rip my heart out and leave me all raw and bleeding. But at the same time it was a soul searching, beautiful and inspiring journey. The words were magical and the romance was epic in the truest sense.
Ruby Turner and Luciano Ribeiro met in Lisbon, Portugal. Ruby is wandering through Europe trying to find her true calling after her life was messed up badly. Luciano is the star footballer of Portugal's most popular team and also struggling with some deep issues. They felt a connection instantly but everything else was wrong. The time. The circumstances. And it's going to take literally a lifetime to find a way to each other. And Karina Halle left me speechless.
One thing is sure of Karina Halle's stories. The variety. I have read every single one of her releases this year and each one has something unique to offer. The One That Got Away had that larger than life and tragic yet sweet starcrossed lovers' story vibe. She spread this story across almost a decade letting the characters evolve and grow. Letting the emotions ferment and breathe to come out with full flavour. Luciano and Ruby's story could have been a whirlwind love story while travelling but the author turned this intona heartbreaking saga. Their connection is intense and something magical. The chemistry light up the pages. They are the definition of soulmates. Everything about them is raw and gritty. They hurt each other. They are confused and lost and broken but it will all make sense. Only you will lose your mind in the process and beg for mercy as Karina Halle tortures your soul.
Ruby is a very complex character and I had to go in deep to understand her. Superficially she feels like this bubbly, colourful, impulsive and reckless girl who never takes anything seriously. Who is always running from her fears and problems. Escapist. Almost selfish. But actually she is vulnerable and incredibly brave to start a complete new life doing adventurous things in Europe, so far away from her home in USA. She is alone but she braves all the situations and makes the best of it. She is an emotional mess because she has too much love inside. Her choices may not make sense but that's where true beauty of story lies. The author didn't try to make her perfect. She made Ruby real and flawed.
Same goes for Luciano. A football god in his country, he is still a simple man inside. A gorgeous man but capable of getting heartbroken and destroyed. He never had it easy with his disjointed family but Ruby stormed in and knocked down all his walls. God I love this amazing man so hard! His heart is the most precious thing ever. I was so in tune with his feelings. His dreams. His passion for football and need for Ruby. His pain and tears. He is beyond perfection. He is hard yet soft, tender yet rough, sweet yet bossy..the list goes on.
The One That Got Away by Karina Halle was something really different. It had such a huge impact on my heart. I stopped so many times while reading because I had to absorb the impact of that powerful moment. Karina Halle's flawless writing made this an unforgettable romance.
I reviewed an early copy voluntarily
Ruby Turner and Luciano Ribeiro met in Lisbon, Portugal. Ruby is wandering through Europe trying to find her true calling after her life was messed up badly. Luciano is the star footballer of Portugal's most popular team and also struggling with some deep issues. They felt a connection instantly but everything else was wrong. The time. The circumstances. And it's going to take literally a lifetime to find a way to each other. And Karina Halle left me speechless.
One thing is sure of Karina Halle's stories. The variety. I have read every single one of her releases this year and each one has something unique to offer. The One That Got Away had that larger than life and tragic yet sweet starcrossed lovers' story vibe. She spread this story across almost a decade letting the characters evolve and grow. Letting the emotions ferment and breathe to come out with full flavour. Luciano and Ruby's story could have been a whirlwind love story while travelling but the author turned this intona heartbreaking saga. Their connection is intense and something magical. The chemistry light up the pages. They are the definition of soulmates. Everything about them is raw and gritty. They hurt each other. They are confused and lost and broken but it will all make sense. Only you will lose your mind in the process and beg for mercy as Karina Halle tortures your soul.
Ruby is a very complex character and I had to go in deep to understand her. Superficially she feels like this bubbly, colourful, impulsive and reckless girl who never takes anything seriously. Who is always running from her fears and problems. Escapist. Almost selfish. But actually she is vulnerable and incredibly brave to start a complete new life doing adventurous things in Europe, so far away from her home in USA. She is alone but she braves all the situations and makes the best of it. She is an emotional mess because she has too much love inside. Her choices may not make sense but that's where true beauty of story lies. The author didn't try to make her perfect. She made Ruby real and flawed.
Same goes for Luciano. A football god in his country, he is still a simple man inside. A gorgeous man but capable of getting heartbroken and destroyed. He never had it easy with his disjointed family but Ruby stormed in and knocked down all his walls. God I love this amazing man so hard! His heart is the most precious thing ever. I was so in tune with his feelings. His dreams. His passion for football and need for Ruby. His pain and tears. He is beyond perfection. He is hard yet soft, tender yet rough, sweet yet bossy..the list goes on.
The One That Got Away by Karina Halle was something really different. It had such a huge impact on my heart. I stopped so many times while reading because I had to absorb the impact of that powerful moment. Karina Halle's flawless writing made this an unforgettable romance.
I reviewed an early copy voluntarily
November 15, 2020
3 Stars
Overall Opinion: I was looking forward to Luciano’s story! I really liked him and I thought he made this book. His family life broke my heart! I always like the whole missed opportunities over the years type romances — so if anyone has any recommendations for books like that, I’d love to hear them! I just need a good fleshed out ending though! When we experience time jumps and angsty separations I feel as though I need that balance of experiencing the good times too, and sadly I didn’t feel like I got that here. I also didn’t feel like the h deserved the H a lot of the time and I struggled with her character. Overall, it was enjoyable at times but not quite as good as I had hoped.
Brief Summary of the Storyline: This is Ruby and Luciano’s story. Ruby escaped to Europe to try her hand at sports journalism and ends up getting an interview with Luciano, who is a local professional soccer star. Sparks fly between, them but Luciano’s half brother swoops in and starts dating her and Luciano backs off. They are forced together and their connection becomes more and more hard to deny and they end up falling in love. Many years, a few separations, many missed opportunities later, and some drama and sexy times later...and they get a HEA ending.
Point Of View (POV): This alternated between Ruby and Luciano’s POV.
Overall Pace of Story: Good until the end. I never skimmed. I was really worried when I got to the last 10% and there still was a major conflict. It then was wrapped up a little too neatly and abruptly for my liking.
Instalove: Kind of, instant connection for sure (but they don’t confess deeper feelings until way later).
H (Hero) rating: 4.5 stars. Luciano. I really liked him! I really liked him in the last book too and I was excited to get his story.
h (heroine) rating: 2.5 stars. Ruby. I wanted to like her more. I felt like she sucked at communicating and that she was often selfish and didn’t deserve the H.
Sadness level: Low, no tissues needed
Push/Pull: Yes
Heat level: Hot. They have some hot tension, chemistry, and scenes -- but not so much it takes away from the story.
Descriptive sex: Yes
OW (Other Woman)/OM (Other Man) drama: Yes
Sex scene with OW or OM: No
Cheating: Yes
Separation: Yes
Possible Triggers: Yes
Closure: This had alright closure with what I would call a HEA ending . I know I’m greedy and this means that I still wanted more. After going back and forth and length separations, I really wanted some significant time experiencing their HEA!
Safety: This one is probably Not Safe for most safety gang readers
Overall Opinion: I was looking forward to Luciano’s story! I really liked him and I thought he made this book. His family life broke my heart! I always like the whole missed opportunities over the years type romances — so if anyone has any recommendations for books like that, I’d love to hear them! I just need a good fleshed out ending though! When we experience time jumps and angsty separations I feel as though I need that balance of experiencing the good times too, and sadly I didn’t feel like I got that here. I also didn’t feel like the h deserved the H a lot of the time and I struggled with her character. Overall, it was enjoyable at times but not quite as good as I had hoped.
Brief Summary of the Storyline: This is Ruby and Luciano’s story. Ruby escaped to Europe to try her hand at sports journalism and ends up getting an interview with Luciano, who is a local professional soccer star. Sparks fly between, them but Luciano’s half brother swoops in and starts dating her and Luciano backs off. They are forced together and their connection becomes more and more hard to deny and they end up falling in love. Many years, a few separations, many missed opportunities later, and some drama and sexy times later...and they get a HEA ending.
Point Of View (POV): This alternated between Ruby and Luciano’s POV.
Overall Pace of Story: Good until the end. I never skimmed. I was really worried when I got to the last 10% and there still was a major conflict. It then was wrapped up a little too neatly and abruptly for my liking.
Instalove: Kind of, instant connection for sure (but they don’t confess deeper feelings until way later).
H (Hero) rating: 4.5 stars. Luciano. I really liked him! I really liked him in the last book too and I was excited to get his story.
h (heroine) rating: 2.5 stars. Ruby. I wanted to like her more. I felt like she sucked at communicating and that she was often selfish and didn’t deserve the H.
Sadness level: Low, no tissues needed
Push/Pull: Yes
Heat level: Hot. They have some hot tension, chemistry, and scenes -- but not so much it takes away from the story.
Descriptive sex: Yes
OW (Other Woman)/OM (Other Man) drama: Yes
Sex scene with OW or OM: No
Cheating: Yes
Separation: Yes
Possible Triggers: Yes
Closure: This had alright closure with what I would call a HEA ending . I know I’m greedy and this means that I still wanted more. After going back and forth and length separations, I really wanted some significant time experiencing their HEA!
Safety: This one is probably Not Safe for most safety gang readers
September 20, 2020
“I don’t even want to fix you. I want to ride your broken wings.”
Y’all, you are NOT READY for this book! Karina Halle BROUGHT IT in The One that Got Away. The angst, tension, SO MUCH HEAT I’m speechless!
With a good amount of romantic suspense as well, The One that Got Away hit all the marks for me! Luciano has been an enigma since we met him in The Forbidden Man and now we know why! His epic romance with Ruby spanning a decade had me REELING! Their love for each other was fast but with so many road blocks before they could have their HEA.
*This book reads as a complete standalone!
Y’all, you are NOT READY for this book! Karina Halle BROUGHT IT in The One that Got Away. The angst, tension, SO MUCH HEAT I’m speechless!
With a good amount of romantic suspense as well, The One that Got Away hit all the marks for me! Luciano has been an enigma since we met him in The Forbidden Man and now we know why! His epic romance with Ruby spanning a decade had me REELING! Their love for each other was fast but with so many road blocks before they could have their HEA.
*This book reads as a complete standalone!
September 20, 2020
Overall Grade: ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ 1/2
If you read Karina Halle’s The Forbidden Man, then you know Luciano Ribeiro. The reliable, stalwart captain of Real Madrid makes an impression on you in that book. When Karina Halle announced that she would be writing a story for this team captain who is a soft place for Alejo to land in that book, I was “over the moon.” This man needed his own story. When she teased that the story would be a journey, with Alejo’s love knitted from afar, I KNEW this book would steal a little part of my heart. And guess what? It did. However, it isn’t for the reasons that I thought. The One That Got Away is a journey of two souls fated for each other from the day they meet except that journey is a windy road with many paths. The foundation of that journey, though, is the belief that Halle’s Luciano and Ruby will find their way to each other even though the journey isn’t linear and plotted. It’s that truth that steals your heart and takes a piece of your soul.
Usually, I’ll spend time in a review working through the details that the author crafts on the page. I’ll talk about the prose or the characterizations. I’ve written reviews for Karina Halle before, in that vein. However, this time, it’s important to note that this book isn’t about that. If you love stories that feel epic and deep, then you will want to read The One That Got Away. This is not an easy read. This is not a quick jump into bed for her hero and heroine. Halle’s book takes you for a ride, one with potholes and cracked roads. If you love stories where it’s clear from the start that the hero and heroine must be together, then you’ll want to read this romance. One of the frustrations with this story is Ruby. To be fair, though, she makes choices in her youth that make sense. For her. Halle does a beautiful job of helping you understand why she does what she does. However, it’s sometimes difficult to read because you, the reader, know there are better choices. But…that’s life, right? We all make poor choices, and we all live with regret. I think, with Ruby, Halle is reminding us that our decisions don’t have to define us in the long term. That there is always a choice in the future that can lead us back to where we wanted to be. There’s beauty in that truth. There’s beauty in failure and heartbreak, and that’s clear in The One That Got Away. Even when Luciano and Ruby are separated, there is a significance to that part of their journey because when they come back together, they know their place, they know where they belong. For me, that understanding was my favorite part of this story. I love that Luciano and Ruby are messy people with messy lives. I love that their love is difficult even though they are “two sides of the same coin.” Halle has Luciano think: “she is me and I am her.” This goes far towards telling you that Luciano and Ruby will find each other and live happily ever after. But life has to intercede and make it difficult, and it’s poetic. What it does is make the epilogue the best part of this book, and it is.
I know that I’ve spent most of this review talking about Ruby. Yet, the depth and gravity of Ruby’s character are impossible without Luciano. The Luciano of The Forbidden Man is the same. He is stalwart and strong and handsome and $exually adept. He’s incredibly internal and it grounds him. Underneath that exterior lies a man who simply needs love. In the fulfillment of his relationship with Ruby, that is revealed to him. Halle unfortunately doesn’t make it easy for him. Yet, in making it difficult, it breeds a story that burrows deep, entrenching its truth in you. Does this book have the same forbidden, edge-of-your-seat feeling as The Forbidden Man? No. Instead, it feels like Luciano: deep, internal, and beautiful. I love the story Karina Halle wrote for Luciano and Ruby in The One That Got Away. Honestly, it feels like a memento of 2020, and its ending reads like a promise for all of our 2021s.
If you read Karina Halle’s The Forbidden Man, then you know Luciano Ribeiro. The reliable, stalwart captain of Real Madrid makes an impression on you in that book. When Karina Halle announced that she would be writing a story for this team captain who is a soft place for Alejo to land in that book, I was “over the moon.” This man needed his own story. When she teased that the story would be a journey, with Alejo’s love knitted from afar, I KNEW this book would steal a little part of my heart. And guess what? It did. However, it isn’t for the reasons that I thought. The One That Got Away is a journey of two souls fated for each other from the day they meet except that journey is a windy road with many paths. The foundation of that journey, though, is the belief that Halle’s Luciano and Ruby will find their way to each other even though the journey isn’t linear and plotted. It’s that truth that steals your heart and takes a piece of your soul.
Usually, I’ll spend time in a review working through the details that the author crafts on the page. I’ll talk about the prose or the characterizations. I’ve written reviews for Karina Halle before, in that vein. However, this time, it’s important to note that this book isn’t about that. If you love stories that feel epic and deep, then you will want to read The One That Got Away. This is not an easy read. This is not a quick jump into bed for her hero and heroine. Halle’s book takes you for a ride, one with potholes and cracked roads. If you love stories where it’s clear from the start that the hero and heroine must be together, then you’ll want to read this romance. One of the frustrations with this story is Ruby. To be fair, though, she makes choices in her youth that make sense. For her. Halle does a beautiful job of helping you understand why she does what she does. However, it’s sometimes difficult to read because you, the reader, know there are better choices. But…that’s life, right? We all make poor choices, and we all live with regret. I think, with Ruby, Halle is reminding us that our decisions don’t have to define us in the long term. That there is always a choice in the future that can lead us back to where we wanted to be. There’s beauty in that truth. There’s beauty in failure and heartbreak, and that’s clear in The One That Got Away. Even when Luciano and Ruby are separated, there is a significance to that part of their journey because when they come back together, they know their place, they know where they belong. For me, that understanding was my favorite part of this story. I love that Luciano and Ruby are messy people with messy lives. I love that their love is difficult even though they are “two sides of the same coin.” Halle has Luciano think: “she is me and I am her.” This goes far towards telling you that Luciano and Ruby will find each other and live happily ever after. But life has to intercede and make it difficult, and it’s poetic. What it does is make the epilogue the best part of this book, and it is.
I know that I’ve spent most of this review talking about Ruby. Yet, the depth and gravity of Ruby’s character are impossible without Luciano. The Luciano of The Forbidden Man is the same. He is stalwart and strong and handsome and $exually adept. He’s incredibly internal and it grounds him. Underneath that exterior lies a man who simply needs love. In the fulfillment of his relationship with Ruby, that is revealed to him. Halle unfortunately doesn’t make it easy for him. Yet, in making it difficult, it breeds a story that burrows deep, entrenching its truth in you. Does this book have the same forbidden, edge-of-your-seat feeling as The Forbidden Man? No. Instead, it feels like Luciano: deep, internal, and beautiful. I love the story Karina Halle wrote for Luciano and Ruby in The One That Got Away. Honestly, it feels like a memento of 2020, and its ending reads like a promise for all of our 2021s.
September 20, 2020
I honestly don’t even know how to start this review. My emotions are still all over the place. I’m trying to process, but everything is still so raw. I wanted this book. I needed Luciano’s full story ever since he was introduced in The Forbidden Man. And holy hell I had no idea the whirlwind of emotions I’d be put through. Though knowing everything I know now I’d endure it all over and over again to experience this epic love story each and every time.
Ruby is free-spirited and marches to the beat of her own drum. She can be a bit reckless, but that’s just who she is. There were a few times I didn’t understand her actions, but as time went on I changed my ways. One thing that spoke to me was how courageous Ruby was, she took risks and lived her life how she wanted without anybody telling her otherwise.
Luciano, Luciano, Luciano oh how I love thee. He completely and utterly stole every piece of my heart. I felt for him and his family situation and I just wanted to wrap him up and never let him go. Luciano is such an incredible and amazing man who cares deeply even though at times it’s not returned. I loved him and his pure and tender heart so much.
Time plays a crucial part in Luciano and Ruby’s relationship. When it comes to them timing just isn’t on their side. But when they get a taste of what they can be they’re consumed by each other. Their chemistry is next level and them together is pure fire. They burn hot and are just compatible. They are every bit perfect for each other and just fit seamlessly. If there’s any two people that deserve happiness there’s no question that it’s Luciano and Ruby.
The One That Got Away is packed with all the feels. The angst in this book will have you clutching your chest. Luciano and Ruby’s story is an uphill battle, they’ll have to fight to finally have time work in their favor. Breathtaking, transcendent, and epic—that’s exactly what Luciano and Ruby’s love story is. This book was everything and one I won’t soon forget.
*I voluntarily read and reviewed an ARC of this book*
Ruby is free-spirited and marches to the beat of her own drum. She can be a bit reckless, but that’s just who she is. There were a few times I didn’t understand her actions, but as time went on I changed my ways. One thing that spoke to me was how courageous Ruby was, she took risks and lived her life how she wanted without anybody telling her otherwise.
Luciano, Luciano, Luciano oh how I love thee. He completely and utterly stole every piece of my heart. I felt for him and his family situation and I just wanted to wrap him up and never let him go. Luciano is such an incredible and amazing man who cares deeply even though at times it’s not returned. I loved him and his pure and tender heart so much.
Time plays a crucial part in Luciano and Ruby’s relationship. When it comes to them timing just isn’t on their side. But when they get a taste of what they can be they’re consumed by each other. Their chemistry is next level and them together is pure fire. They burn hot and are just compatible. They are every bit perfect for each other and just fit seamlessly. If there’s any two people that deserve happiness there’s no question that it’s Luciano and Ruby.
The One That Got Away is packed with all the feels. The angst in this book will have you clutching your chest. Luciano and Ruby’s story is an uphill battle, they’ll have to fight to finally have time work in their favor. Breathtaking, transcendent, and epic—that’s exactly what Luciano and Ruby’s love story is. This book was everything and one I won’t soon forget.
*I voluntarily read and reviewed an ARC of this book*
December 30, 2020
4.5 stars!!
beautiful second chance romance.. spanning over a decade! 😱
Ruby has dreams of becoming a sports journalist and lands an interview with Luciano, an up and coming footballer. There's an instant attraction between them both but it seems that Ruby and Marco - Luciano's brother, have something going on. Turns out Marco's a total ass and sends Ruby packing to Barcelona; but not before Ruby and Luciano give in to each other, sharing a passion filled night. Ultimately, Ruby left. The story breaks into another 2 parts - 2 years later and 7 years later.
I love the fact that Ruby and Luciano understood each other on a level that no one else did. Both of them were thrown into some twisted family drama especially Luciano.. When I thought that they are finally together after going through so much, something decides to happen.. which leads us to another 7 years later.
Thank god this book isn't a lengthy one if not i'll die from all this angst. It's pretty emotional especially Luciano's unwavering love for Ruby. All those years he couldn't forget her.. the one that got away 💔
Highly recommended! took away 0.5 stars because i couldn't stand Ruby's attitude sometimes. her 'happy-go-lucky' attitude lowkey pisses me off sometimes lol
"I’m home. A tear falls from the corner of my eyes as I grab hold of him tighter, wanting him in deeper, until we’re one and can never be parted.
“I love you,” he whispers roughly to me, kissing my lips, my neck, my breast.
“Amo-te,” I tell him."
beautiful second chance romance.. spanning over a decade! 😱
Ruby has dreams of becoming a sports journalist and lands an interview with Luciano, an up and coming footballer. There's an instant attraction between them both but it seems that Ruby and Marco - Luciano's brother, have something going on. Turns out Marco's a total ass and sends Ruby packing to Barcelona; but not before Ruby and Luciano give in to each other, sharing a passion filled night. Ultimately, Ruby left. The story breaks into another 2 parts - 2 years later and 7 years later.
I love the fact that Ruby and Luciano understood each other on a level that no one else did. Both of them were thrown into some twisted family drama especially Luciano.. When I thought that they are finally together after going through so much, something decides to happen.. which leads us to another 7 years later.
Thank god this book isn't a lengthy one if not i'll die from all this angst. It's pretty emotional especially Luciano's unwavering love for Ruby. All those years he couldn't forget her.. the one that got away 💔
Highly recommended! took away 0.5 stars because i couldn't stand Ruby's attitude sometimes. her 'happy-go-lucky' attitude lowkey pisses me off sometimes lol
"I’m home. A tear falls from the corner of my eyes as I grab hold of him tighter, wanting him in deeper, until we’re one and can never be parted.
“I love you,” he whispers roughly to me, kissing my lips, my neck, my breast.
“Amo-te,” I tell him."
February 17, 2022
because I don't usually read reviews before picking a book up or sometimes even blurbs
I get to read some of my most hated tropes
I saw the title thought ohh second chance romance, let's use it for a reading challenge..
but oh boy was I overjoyed when I figured out it was brother dick swapping trope and I just DO NOT CARE ABOUT IT!!
in the end, I was okay with it all, I guess
because it was an audiobook I didn't dnf it
and that beginning was so delicious I thought it will be five-star read...
I guess I have soft spot for football romances (that's soccer for you Americans) and that setup of our hero and heroine gave me Iker and Sara vibes
and when I went to find this gif I learn they divorced, we just can't have nice things
Yes for Vera and Matteo cameos from Love, in English
3,5⭐
I get to read some of my most hated tropes
I saw the title thought ohh second chance romance, let's use it for a reading challenge..
but oh boy was I overjoyed when I figured out it was brother dick swapping trope and I just DO NOT CARE ABOUT IT!!
in the end, I was okay with it all, I guess
because it was an audiobook I didn't dnf it
and that beginning was so delicious I thought it will be five-star read...
I guess I have soft spot for football romances (that's soccer for you Americans) and that setup of our hero and heroine gave me Iker and Sara vibes
and when I went to find this gif I learn they divorced, we just can't have nice things
Yes for Vera and Matteo cameos from Love, in English
3,5⭐
September 18, 2020
Aahhhhh Luciano, without any doubts, my heart is beating for You!!!!! Call me Ruby, or Marta - whatever You want!! I'm Yours, You're mine AND nothing gonna change that🤷♀️
The One That Got Away will stay with me forever. I was waiting so impatient for Luciano and Ruby and OMG!!!!! All this waiting was worth of the time that passed by.
Mrs. Halle outdid herself, and left me amazed. Ok, as always, I knew - She will give us beautiful love story but this time?? I wasn't well prepared for what happened here. From one side it was Mrs. Hale's typical masterpiece but from the other side.... all twists, ups and downs was quite big suprise, that made me breathless till the last paige of this book. The One That Got Away was very emotional since the first paiges, you'll see how much once You'll read it!
Luciano and Ruby - someone hold me please! Chemistry between them could be illegal in some countries 😅 I swear!!! They burned my kindle to the ashes, I don't want to imagine how flushed my face looks like...STILL!
I finnished reading few moments ago but the blood in my veins runs like the most crazy rolle coaster ride. I want to cry. I want to laugh.... I WANT TO JUMP INTO THIS BOOK AND LIVE INSIDE! I loved Luciano, I adore Ruby!!!Sometimes she made me feel little angry, but I can't imagine more perfect partner for Luciano. They were different, but they were like 2 parts of one apple - They are just destiny!!!
Absolutely must read!!!!
The One That Got Away will stay with me forever. I was waiting so impatient for Luciano and Ruby and OMG!!!!! All this waiting was worth of the time that passed by.
Mrs. Halle outdid herself, and left me amazed. Ok, as always, I knew - She will give us beautiful love story but this time?? I wasn't well prepared for what happened here. From one side it was Mrs. Hale's typical masterpiece but from the other side.... all twists, ups and downs was quite big suprise, that made me breathless till the last paige of this book. The One That Got Away was very emotional since the first paiges, you'll see how much once You'll read it!
Luciano and Ruby - someone hold me please! Chemistry between them could be illegal in some countries 😅 I swear!!! They burned my kindle to the ashes, I don't want to imagine how flushed my face looks like...STILL!
I finnished reading few moments ago but the blood in my veins runs like the most crazy rolle coaster ride. I want to cry. I want to laugh.... I WANT TO JUMP INTO THIS BOOK AND LIVE INSIDE! I loved Luciano, I adore Ruby!!!Sometimes she made me feel little angry, but I can't imagine more perfect partner for Luciano. They were different, but they were like 2 parts of one apple - They are just destiny!!!
Absolutely must read!!!!
September 18, 2020
„Tell me why this, and everything between us, is so complicated when it’s the only thing that makes any sense.”
When it comes to the most anticipated reads of 2020, The One That Got Away was on the top of my list. When I was reading The Forbidden Man by Karina Halle, Luciano was the character that instantly caught my interest and I was like ‘oh man, I wish I could read his book!’. In the moment when Karina announced that it will happen, I couldn’t contain my excitement and let me tell you, this story was so worth the wait! Luciano and Ruby are EVERYTHING! Their romance put my heart through the grinder, but it was such a delicious kind of ache… Karina holds no punches with this couple, but believe me, their long and at times heartbreaking journey to the happy ending will fill your heart to the brim!
Hot mess express- that’s what comes to mind when I think about Ruby. I’ll admit that I needed some time to warm up to her, because I couldn’t fully understand her actions. This girl is spontaneous, flighty and reckless. Sometimes I even thought that she was egoistical. But when I got to know her better, I saw hurt and vulnerable girl, who wanted to protect her own heart. I started to see her in a different light, because it’s incredibly courageous to leave everything behind and start a new life on another continent.
Luciano is… perfect. I’m not kidding. He’s so down-to-earth, so caring and supportive. The amount of love he has to give is endless. I felt for him when his family situation came to light, but it gave me an example how big his heart is. Because even when he was treated badly, he still cared. But when he is tender with his emotions, in the bedroom he becomes a true alpha! Dirty-talking, dominating and passionate lover, who will rock your world. Can I have him for my birthday, please?
„We’re raw and messy and lost and found but what we’ve always been is real.”
This sentence describes Ruby and Luciano’s relantionship perfectly. Over the years these two have gone through so much, they’ve had loads of ups and downs, and this whole time has been filled with mistakes, doubts, pain, longing, passion, tenderness and so much more! But whatever happened, their connection was so deep and so intense that I was sure that they would survive whatever fate throws at their feet. Their love story is breathtaking. It will rip your heart apart and then beautifully put it back together.
The One That Got Away is an angsty, emotionally-charged story that shows raw, unfiltered side of love. Ruby and Luciano’s romance is tumultuous, full of missteps and setbacks, but it’s also real. I was completely enchanted with their story and I couldn’t put it down. It’s that kind of book that you’ll be re-reading over and over again. Unforgettable and remarkable!
When it comes to the most anticipated reads of 2020, The One That Got Away was on the top of my list. When I was reading The Forbidden Man by Karina Halle, Luciano was the character that instantly caught my interest and I was like ‘oh man, I wish I could read his book!’. In the moment when Karina announced that it will happen, I couldn’t contain my excitement and let me tell you, this story was so worth the wait! Luciano and Ruby are EVERYTHING! Their romance put my heart through the grinder, but it was such a delicious kind of ache… Karina holds no punches with this couple, but believe me, their long and at times heartbreaking journey to the happy ending will fill your heart to the brim!
Hot mess express- that’s what comes to mind when I think about Ruby. I’ll admit that I needed some time to warm up to her, because I couldn’t fully understand her actions. This girl is spontaneous, flighty and reckless. Sometimes I even thought that she was egoistical. But when I got to know her better, I saw hurt and vulnerable girl, who wanted to protect her own heart. I started to see her in a different light, because it’s incredibly courageous to leave everything behind and start a new life on another continent.
Luciano is… perfect. I’m not kidding. He’s so down-to-earth, so caring and supportive. The amount of love he has to give is endless. I felt for him when his family situation came to light, but it gave me an example how big his heart is. Because even when he was treated badly, he still cared. But when he is tender with his emotions, in the bedroom he becomes a true alpha! Dirty-talking, dominating and passionate lover, who will rock your world. Can I have him for my birthday, please?
„We’re raw and messy and lost and found but what we’ve always been is real.”
This sentence describes Ruby and Luciano’s relantionship perfectly. Over the years these two have gone through so much, they’ve had loads of ups and downs, and this whole time has been filled with mistakes, doubts, pain, longing, passion, tenderness and so much more! But whatever happened, their connection was so deep and so intense that I was sure that they would survive whatever fate throws at their feet. Their love story is breathtaking. It will rip your heart apart and then beautifully put it back together.
The One That Got Away is an angsty, emotionally-charged story that shows raw, unfiltered side of love. Ruby and Luciano’s romance is tumultuous, full of missteps and setbacks, but it’s also real. I was completely enchanted with their story and I couldn’t put it down. It’s that kind of book that you’ll be re-reading over and over again. Unforgettable and remarkable!
September 19, 2020
Do I believe in fate?
I don't know.
But I know fate believes in me.
I'll start out by saying that this is a complete standalone romance, but Luciano did appear in The Forbidden Man which released at the end of 2019 and we are finally getting his story! If you want to meet him, start there, but it is totally NOT necessary. Be prepared to be put through the wringer with this one! This second (and third and fourth...) chance romance will have your emotions all over the place. Hold on for this bumpy ride.
I'm going to keep this review fairly short. Luciano and Ruby's story is not easy and it is a bit messy. Ruby is an American in Portugal when she meets Luciano, the upcoming soccer star and his brother Marco, his agent. She is there to go after her goals of becoming a sports journalist and lands an interview with Luciano. You could feel the tension between them during their first meeting. It was tangible through pages. Even though she is a "happy go lucky" type of character, you can tell that 'like attracts like' and they have some sort of connection within the dark. But when life has handed you a lot of crap, you tend to go for easy when you can. And Ruby ends up going for easy when she starts dating Marco. AND I was so disappointed when she did! It frustrated me to no end! Couldn't she feel and see the connection she had with Luciano??!!
SO Luciano and Ruby's journey toward happiness is anything but happy and easy. It's complex. It's emotional. It's full of angst and sexual tension from their first meeting. And it doesn't end there. Their story spans a decade and had my heart in my throat more than once. I felt their pain and their issues. I understood each transgression but still hated it. And all the years in between? How had their pain and love pulled them forward?
This love story is an emotionally charged one that left me feeling a bit of pain and wondering what these characters did in the years between. It was real, raw, sexy AF and heartbreaking, all wrapped up into a beautiful messy bow. At times I had to put down my kindle and just breathe because my heart couldn't take it. I wanted to shake some sense into Ruby while hugging her the next moment. I wanted to be there for Luciano when he was broken by the ones who were supposed to love him most. But most of all, I wanted to see them happy, no matter how they got there.
Be prepared to work for this story. Be prepared to feel all the love and anguish these characters feel. Be prepared to see a soccer god in all his glory (because, damn....can I have him??). Be prepared for this ride that will leave you feeling like your heart can't take it anymore. It will be worth it. I promise.
"Then I don't want to do it alone. I want to be lost and stumbling with you."
I don't know.
But I know fate believes in me.
I'll start out by saying that this is a complete standalone romance, but Luciano did appear in The Forbidden Man which released at the end of 2019 and we are finally getting his story! If you want to meet him, start there, but it is totally NOT necessary. Be prepared to be put through the wringer with this one! This second (and third and fourth...) chance romance will have your emotions all over the place. Hold on for this bumpy ride.
I'm going to keep this review fairly short. Luciano and Ruby's story is not easy and it is a bit messy. Ruby is an American in Portugal when she meets Luciano, the upcoming soccer star and his brother Marco, his agent. She is there to go after her goals of becoming a sports journalist and lands an interview with Luciano. You could feel the tension between them during their first meeting. It was tangible through pages. Even though she is a "happy go lucky" type of character, you can tell that 'like attracts like' and they have some sort of connection within the dark. But when life has handed you a lot of crap, you tend to go for easy when you can. And Ruby ends up going for easy when she starts dating Marco. AND I was so disappointed when she did! It frustrated me to no end! Couldn't she feel and see the connection she had with Luciano??!!
SO Luciano and Ruby's journey toward happiness is anything but happy and easy. It's complex. It's emotional. It's full of angst and sexual tension from their first meeting. And it doesn't end there. Their story spans a decade and had my heart in my throat more than once. I felt their pain and their issues. I understood each transgression but still hated it. And all the years in between? How had their pain and love pulled them forward?
This love story is an emotionally charged one that left me feeling a bit of pain and wondering what these characters did in the years between. It was real, raw, sexy AF and heartbreaking, all wrapped up into a beautiful messy bow. At times I had to put down my kindle and just breathe because my heart couldn't take it. I wanted to shake some sense into Ruby while hugging her the next moment. I wanted to be there for Luciano when he was broken by the ones who were supposed to love him most. But most of all, I wanted to see them happy, no matter how they got there.
Be prepared to work for this story. Be prepared to feel all the love and anguish these characters feel. Be prepared to see a soccer god in all his glory (because, damn....can I have him??). Be prepared for this ride that will leave you feeling like your heart can't take it anymore. It will be worth it. I promise.
"Then I don't want to do it alone. I want to be lost and stumbling with you."
September 16, 2020
I've read every single one of Karina's self published titles this year. Lovewrecked was funny, passion filled, and amazing. It was just what I needed to lift my spirits. One Hot Italian Summer was steamy, evoked lots of good feelings in me, and took me to Italy when I was landlocked at home. The One That Got Away is passionate, angsty to the nth degree, emotion filled, captivating, and impossible to put down. It's my favorite book Karina has released this year.
There's just something about Luciano and Ruby that speaks to me. Their longing, the way they feel about themselves, how they handle things. They really are the same person and the way their souls and bodies speak to each other is magical.
Karina is one of the queens of angst. She knows how to make her characters work for their happy ever afters and deal with the issues that plague them and hold them back. She takes you on these journeys that leave you wanting more and left with a lot to think about.
If you pick up one of Karina's books this year, make it this one and I hope you love it as much as I did.
There's just something about Luciano and Ruby that speaks to me. Their longing, the way they feel about themselves, how they handle things. They really are the same person and the way their souls and bodies speak to each other is magical.
Karina is one of the queens of angst. She knows how to make her characters work for their happy ever afters and deal with the issues that plague them and hold them back. She takes you on these journeys that leave you wanting more and left with a lot to think about.
If you pick up one of Karina's books this year, make it this one and I hope you love it as much as I did.
September 20, 2020
The One That Got Away is another page turner from Karina Halle. I have read a few of her books and, like those books, Luciano and Ruby's story kept my attention from the beginning.
Luciano and Ruby definitely experience drama, angst, and turmoil, but there's also romance, chemistry, and heat. Their happily ever after is not easy or quick, but their story is definitely worth the read!
I can't wait to see what the author has in store for readers next!
Thank you to the author for providing an ARC for an honest review.
Luciano and Ruby definitely experience drama, angst, and turmoil, but there's also romance, chemistry, and heat. Their happily ever after is not easy or quick, but their story is definitely worth the read!
I can't wait to see what the author has in store for readers next!
Thank you to the author for providing an ARC for an honest review.
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