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Can't Look Away
It's 2013, and twenty-three-year-old Brooklyn barista Molly Diamond has just locked eyes with Jake Danner, the front man of an up-and-coming Southern rock band. It's not long before Molly and Jake fall deeply in love, inspiring each other's writing and planning for a life together filled with creativity, passion, and adventure.
But nearly a decade later, Molly is teaching yoga and living in the posh Connecticut suburb of Flynn Cove with her young daughter and husband Hunter--who is decidedly not Jake Danner. Molly is lonely in picture-perfect Flynn Cove--until Sabrina walks into her studio. A newcomer in town, Sabrina has her own reasons for seeking out Molly, and their blossoming friendship will set both women on a collision course of deep-rooted secrets, lies, and manipulation.
Meanwhile, a new version of Jake's hit song is on the radio, forcing Molly to confront her past and ask the ultimate questions: What happens when life turns out nothing like we thought it would, when we were young and dreaming big? Does growing up mean choosing with your head, rather than your heart? And do we ever truly get over our first love?
But nearly a decade later, Molly is teaching yoga and living in the posh Connecticut suburb of Flynn Cove with her young daughter and husband Hunter--who is decidedly not Jake Danner. Molly is lonely in picture-perfect Flynn Cove--until Sabrina walks into her studio. A newcomer in town, Sabrina has her own reasons for seeking out Molly, and their blossoming friendship will set both women on a collision course of deep-rooted secrets, lies, and manipulation.
Meanwhile, a new version of Jake's hit song is on the radio, forcing Molly to confront her past and ask the ultimate questions: What happens when life turns out nothing like we thought it would, when we were young and dreaming big? Does growing up mean choosing with your head, rather than your heart? And do we ever truly get over our first love?
320 pages, Hardcover
First published June 14, 2022
829 people are currently reading
39737 people want to read
About the author
Carola Lovering
6 books2,905 followersCarola Lovering is the author of Tell Me Lies, Too Good to Be True, Can’t Look Away, and Bye, Baby. She is a graduate of Colorado College, and her work has appeared in Vogue, The Cut, Marie Claire, W Magazine, National Geographic, and Yoga Journal, among other publications. Her novel, Tell Me Lies, has been adapted into a television series for Hulu. She lives in Connecticut with her husband and two young children.
Instagram: @carolatlovering
Twitter: @carolatlovering
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Instagram: @carolatlovering
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Facebook: /carolatlovering
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 2,133 reviews
November 24, 2021
I have nothing positive to say.
January 1, 2023
Wow! This is the first! I started a thriller and it gave me the same kind of deep pain at each time I devoured a Colho book: this is angsty, tear jerker, heartbreaking romance! Perfectly developed four characters you can honestly relate with including Sabrina who may be the evil twin of Joe Goldberg!
The obsession story is well blended with heartfelt, sad romance parts! And it truly worked quite well for me!
Molly truly reminded me of Colho’s sad, determined characters who sacrificed too much, putting the others first, giving up her dreams to become author for living in Flynn Cove, befriending spoiled rich- pretentious stay at home moms, giving yoga classes. That’s where she met with her new friend Sabrina, bonding fast connection with her.
But Sabrina has some secret agenda. She already knows who Molly is and she secretly plans to ruin her life, scheming her grande revenge plan.
Once upon a time Molly fell so hard for Jake Danner who has written a song about her which put his band on the map. But his music may be the biggest obstacle for their relationship ( even though Jake’s ex is sharpening her nails to rip their heads off)
Molly chose Hunter: which means she chose trust, loyalty, compassion over her heart wrenching, painful love!
But now four people’s paths are interwoven in Flynn Cove. The secrets are about to come out. Unresolved feelings are about to pour out. Unfinished businesses are about to be faced!
Nobody’s life will be the same after the hard slap of the truth knocks them off!
I considered this as a very angsty romance which made me cry! I also get agitated and bit my nails a lot!
At some parts I found myself empathize with the villanelle!
Luckily the conclusion was brilliant and fair which made me relieved. Because the book was really well-written and characters are flawed, realistic, easy to resonate! So I wished the author could give their stories proper endings. Thankfully she did!
Overall: I loved Too Good to be True! This book was also well executed. But this was more romance than a thriller or suspense. I still enjoyed it and I gave four emotional, musical stars!
Special thanks to NetGalley and St. Martin’s Press for sharing this digital reviewer copy with me in exchange my honest thoughts.
The obsession story is well blended with heartfelt, sad romance parts! And it truly worked quite well for me!
Molly truly reminded me of Colho’s sad, determined characters who sacrificed too much, putting the others first, giving up her dreams to become author for living in Flynn Cove, befriending spoiled rich- pretentious stay at home moms, giving yoga classes. That’s where she met with her new friend Sabrina, bonding fast connection with her.
But Sabrina has some secret agenda. She already knows who Molly is and she secretly plans to ruin her life, scheming her grande revenge plan.
Once upon a time Molly fell so hard for Jake Danner who has written a song about her which put his band on the map. But his music may be the biggest obstacle for their relationship ( even though Jake’s ex is sharpening her nails to rip their heads off)
Molly chose Hunter: which means she chose trust, loyalty, compassion over her heart wrenching, painful love!
But now four people’s paths are interwoven in Flynn Cove. The secrets are about to come out. Unresolved feelings are about to pour out. Unfinished businesses are about to be faced!
Nobody’s life will be the same after the hard slap of the truth knocks them off!
I considered this as a very angsty romance which made me cry! I also get agitated and bit my nails a lot!
At some parts I found myself empathize with the villanelle!
Luckily the conclusion was brilliant and fair which made me relieved. Because the book was really well-written and characters are flawed, realistic, easy to resonate! So I wished the author could give their stories proper endings. Thankfully she did!
Overall: I loved Too Good to be True! This book was also well executed. But this was more romance than a thriller or suspense. I still enjoyed it and I gave four emotional, musical stars!
Special thanks to NetGalley and St. Martin’s Press for sharing this digital reviewer copy with me in exchange my honest thoughts.
July 13, 2022
Can't Look Away by Carola Lovering
In 2013, Molly and Jake, both twenty three, meet and immediately become a couple despite Jake possibly still being attached to someone else. He seems a bit fuzzy on that. But then Jake can be fuzzy about a lot of things, makes excuses, says he gets too focused on the group and "forgets". Despite really being into each other, Molly and Jake have a rough time of things, Jake may be selfish but Molly ends up letting him keep being selfish.
In 2022, Molly is married to Hunter and they have a five year old daughter. They live in a wealthy community although Molly really doesn't enjoy the people there. It's not until Sabrina moves into the community that she finally finds a real friend, someone she can enjoy talking to and spending time with, someone who even sees the same fertility doctor that Molly sees. Sabrina gets Molly in a way no one ever has gotten her.
We get the story from three POVs. We see things through the eyes of Molly, Jake, and Sabrina, with chapters going back and forth from the past to the present day. I was very bored with the story at first but then began to enjoy it in a gossipy soap opera-ish way although I do not like soap operas. But it drags, deep down no one really changes even though their lives have changed. Also, these 32 year old grown ups act like things that happened just 6-9 year ago happened centuries ago. Like 6 to 9 years ago is ancient history even though they are secretly obsessing about those times constantly. So by the end of the story, which does get resolved in a tidy manner, I was back to not enjoying the story so much anymore. There really isn't much going on and this is not a thriller even though it's listed as one. More like a low, slow burn that slowly dies out.
Pub June 14, 2022
Thank you to St. Martin's Press and NetGalley for this ARC.
In 2013, Molly and Jake, both twenty three, meet and immediately become a couple despite Jake possibly still being attached to someone else. He seems a bit fuzzy on that. But then Jake can be fuzzy about a lot of things, makes excuses, says he gets too focused on the group and "forgets". Despite really being into each other, Molly and Jake have a rough time of things, Jake may be selfish but Molly ends up letting him keep being selfish.
In 2022, Molly is married to Hunter and they have a five year old daughter. They live in a wealthy community although Molly really doesn't enjoy the people there. It's not until Sabrina moves into the community that she finally finds a real friend, someone she can enjoy talking to and spending time with, someone who even sees the same fertility doctor that Molly sees. Sabrina gets Molly in a way no one ever has gotten her.
We get the story from three POVs. We see things through the eyes of Molly, Jake, and Sabrina, with chapters going back and forth from the past to the present day. I was very bored with the story at first but then began to enjoy it in a gossipy soap opera-ish way although I do not like soap operas. But it drags, deep down no one really changes even though their lives have changed. Also, these 32 year old grown ups act like things that happened just 6-9 year ago happened centuries ago. Like 6 to 9 years ago is ancient history even though they are secretly obsessing about those times constantly. So by the end of the story, which does get resolved in a tidy manner, I was back to not enjoying the story so much anymore. There really isn't much going on and this is not a thriller even though it's listed as one. More like a low, slow burn that slowly dies out.
Pub June 14, 2022
Thank you to St. Martin's Press and NetGalley for this ARC.
November 17, 2021
2013: Molly Diamond, a 23-year old New Yorker barista and wannabe writer, is almost finished with her studies when she meets Jake Danner, the lead singer of a band. They fall fast and hard for each other. As his band’s debut album skyrockets up the charts, he writes a song about Molly (creatively titled “Molly’s Song”) that ends up being the biggest hit from the group.
2022: Molly now lives in a Connecticut suburb, married to a man named Hunter, and with a 5-year old daughter named Stella. She’s given up writing, and now teaches yoga instead. When she hears a new acoustic version of “Molly’s Song” on the radio (sung by Jake himself), she can’t help but remember him...as much as she has tried to forget him over the years after their breakup.
Meanwhile, Molly makes a new friend in the neighborhood. Sabrina and her husband have recently moved to town, and Molly meets her at the yoga studio. They instantly hit it off and become close. But Sabrina has secrets...and an agenda all her own.
This is being marketed as a mystery/thriller, and that is absolutely, certifiably, 100% false. It’s a domestic drama with maybe the slightest hint of suspense. I think many readers who pick this up will be disappointed, but now you’ve been warned and know what you’re getting into.
That being said, I still enjoyed this for the most part - in the same way I would maybe enjoy a Lifetime movie...not realizing it was a Lifetime movie until I was already sucked in by the overdramatic plot. There are no twists (IMHO), and nothing surprised me...and yet I wanted to know what was going to happen next.
Everything is wrapped up in the end. All that’s missing is a pretty red bow. I actually enjoyed the finale, but other readers may find it a bit too perfect.
Overall, it’s a quick and entertaining DRAMA that doesn’t require too much brain power, but nevertheless hooks with its back and forth timeline and interesting characters.
Somewhere between 3 and 3.5 stars. I'll give it 3.5, but definitely rounded down.
Thank you to St. Martin’s Press for providing me with a widget of the ARC through NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. Expected Publication Date: 6/14/22.
Review also posted at: https://bonkersforthebooks.wordpress.com
2022: Molly now lives in a Connecticut suburb, married to a man named Hunter, and with a 5-year old daughter named Stella. She’s given up writing, and now teaches yoga instead. When she hears a new acoustic version of “Molly’s Song” on the radio (sung by Jake himself), she can’t help but remember him...as much as she has tried to forget him over the years after their breakup.
Meanwhile, Molly makes a new friend in the neighborhood. Sabrina and her husband have recently moved to town, and Molly meets her at the yoga studio. They instantly hit it off and become close. But Sabrina has secrets...and an agenda all her own.
This is being marketed as a mystery/thriller, and that is absolutely, certifiably, 100% false. It’s a domestic drama with maybe the slightest hint of suspense. I think many readers who pick this up will be disappointed, but now you’ve been warned and know what you’re getting into.
That being said, I still enjoyed this for the most part - in the same way I would maybe enjoy a Lifetime movie...not realizing it was a Lifetime movie until I was already sucked in by the overdramatic plot. There are no twists (IMHO), and nothing surprised me...and yet I wanted to know what was going to happen next.
Everything is wrapped up in the end. All that’s missing is a pretty red bow. I actually enjoyed the finale, but other readers may find it a bit too perfect.
Overall, it’s a quick and entertaining DRAMA that doesn’t require too much brain power, but nevertheless hooks with its back and forth timeline and interesting characters.
Somewhere between 3 and 3.5 stars. I'll give it 3.5, but definitely rounded down.
Thank you to St. Martin’s Press for providing me with a widget of the ARC through NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. Expected Publication Date: 6/14/22.
Review also posted at: https://bonkersforthebooks.wordpress.com
June 8, 2022
It’s 2013, and Sabrina, aka Sisi, dreams of building a life with Jake Danner, the lead singer for band on the rise, Danner Lane. The problem is Molly - at least that’s how she sees it. It’s not the fact that Jake isn’t in love with her. No - it’s that ever since he saw Molly at one of his gigs, he’s convinced SHE’S the woman of his dreams, and now those two are planning their future together.
That’s OK. Sabrina knows how to play the long game and a little “creative meddling” will solve the Molly problem. You see - it’s now 2022, and a LOT has changed. Maybe she can have exactly what she wants after all. What’s the old saying? Keep your friends close and your enemies closer? Molly may not know Sabrina, but Sabrina knows SO much about Molly.
Molly is now happily married to Hunter and mom to five-year-old Stella. In her affluent town of Flynn Cove, where she hasn’t been able to connect with the other snobby wives, she’s so happy to have befriended one of its newest residents … Sabrina. Molly is sure they’ll be best friends. They have so much in common. More than she realizes.
So, basically this is another jilted woman story where the “jiltee” (making up words) doesn’t like getting the raw end of the deal and sociopathically manipulates people and circumstances in an attempt to get what she wants and keep it. I actually found the story quite engaging, even if not overly original. I’m not sure I can wrap my brain around why female characters always seem to be vying for the affections of a man not worth vying for, but whatever. I thought Lovering did a great job humanizing each character, so their motivations, no matter how misplaced, at least made sense. Here’s where it lost a couple stars:
• An OTT dramatic event towards the end led to an overly tidy denouement. It didn’t feel realistic, nor did some of the related conversations that happened afterward.
• Lovering apparently LOVES the “F” word and its variations. The word doesn’t scare me a bit, but close to 100 uses? Pick a different word already.
• Speaking of counting things, there were more than 130 specific product/brand name references. Are these brands sponsoring the book? If not, it’s distracting.
• Disney’s Frozen was referenced 19 separate times. I get it. The little girl loves Frozen. For the love of everything, please stop mentioning it.
• The fact that I noticed things so much that I felt compelled to count them. That’s a problem for me.
All that said, I did actually like this book for the most part and the story kept me turning the pages, so no complaints there!
★★★ ½ (rounded to 3)
Thanks to St. Martins Press, NetGalley and author Carola Lovering for the opportunity to review this ARC honestly. It’s due for publication June 14, 2022.
That’s OK. Sabrina knows how to play the long game and a little “creative meddling” will solve the Molly problem. You see - it’s now 2022, and a LOT has changed. Maybe she can have exactly what she wants after all. What’s the old saying? Keep your friends close and your enemies closer? Molly may not know Sabrina, but Sabrina knows SO much about Molly.
Molly is now happily married to Hunter and mom to five-year-old Stella. In her affluent town of Flynn Cove, where she hasn’t been able to connect with the other snobby wives, she’s so happy to have befriended one of its newest residents … Sabrina. Molly is sure they’ll be best friends. They have so much in common. More than she realizes.
So, basically this is another jilted woman story where the “jiltee” (making up words) doesn’t like getting the raw end of the deal and sociopathically manipulates people and circumstances in an attempt to get what she wants and keep it. I actually found the story quite engaging, even if not overly original. I’m not sure I can wrap my brain around why female characters always seem to be vying for the affections of a man not worth vying for, but whatever. I thought Lovering did a great job humanizing each character, so their motivations, no matter how misplaced, at least made sense. Here’s where it lost a couple stars:
• An OTT dramatic event towards the end led to an overly tidy denouement. It didn’t feel realistic, nor did some of the related conversations that happened afterward.
• Lovering apparently LOVES the “F” word and its variations. The word doesn’t scare me a bit, but close to 100 uses? Pick a different word already.
• Speaking of counting things, there were more than 130 specific product/brand name references. Are these brands sponsoring the book? If not, it’s distracting.
• Disney’s Frozen was referenced 19 separate times. I get it. The little girl loves Frozen. For the love of everything, please stop mentioning it.
• The fact that I noticed things so much that I felt compelled to count them. That’s a problem for me.
All that said, I did actually like this book for the most part and the story kept me turning the pages, so no complaints there!
★★★ ½ (rounded to 3)
Thanks to St. Martins Press, NetGalley and author Carola Lovering for the opportunity to review this ARC honestly. It’s due for publication June 14, 2022.
August 22, 2022
**Many thanks to NetGalley, St. Martin's Press, and Carola Lovering for an ARC of this book! Now available as of 6.14!!**
Have you ever been trapped on a subway car with a couple that just SHOULD NOT be together...and you get to subsequently listen to their petty and obnoxious argument?
Now picture that one half of this couple is a highly overrated and slightly washed up alt-country star...and the other half is an obsessive fangirl who just couldn't move on.
Then toss in the 'one that got away' for the man to stare at longingly from across the car...and you'd (somewhat) have this book.
Said musician is Jake Danner, leading man of a band called Danner Lane, and at a concert in 2013 he meets Molly Diamond, a would-be writer. He writes her a song, titled fittingly "Molly's Song" (heavy eye roll) that helps propel the band to fame, but Jake's bad behavior (you can guess what that is) and other circumstances drive the couple apart.
Years later, Molly has put aside, well, ALL of her has-been dreams, from being Mrs. Rock Royalty to being a star novelist and has settled into domestic bliss with Hunter, a friend who became much more, and is raising a young daughter Stella. She doesn't quite fit in to the wealthy suburb, however, and trying to have another child has made her feel lonely and frustrated. Amidst these IVF struggles, she just HAPPENS to meet Sabrina at her yoga studio, a woman who can SO relate (OMG) and Molly feels she's finally found a kindred spirit. But just how close IS Sabrina to Molly? Was this chance encounter a coincidence...or a highly orchestrated move from a woman who knows more than just the lyrics to Molly's Song...but their inspiration itself? Is she there to provide a shoulder...or to simply tackle some unfinished business of her own?
After mixed feelings about my last Lovering book (namely that the big twist was simply revealed too soon, and was followed by a bit too much exposition) this striking cover caught my eye and I figured I'd give this one a try. I'm all for a good story of obsession. HOWEVER what I did not bargain for from the beginning with this book is that much like giving a feline a bath, this one was mostly a catty, and soapy mess.
These characters were not only unlikable to me, but were ridiculously immature. Jake is supposedly such a drool worthy rock god that we are supposed to ignore the fact that he's...a stereotypical, womanizing rocker. He's also referred to as "Tim McGraw meets Kurt Cobain." Blech. And don't get me started on his TERRIBLE lyrics...I think there was more than one reason the band struggled. But that's neither here nor there in terms of this story.
This bouncing timeline was just one more thing to add to the overall frustration I felt while reading this book. I understand it was necessary in some respects, but it wasn't executed well and most of the 'past' sections could have been shorter, or just eliminated entirely, because they felt repetitive. We get it: Molly thinks he's the perfect man and can't get over him. Their relationship was incredible until it (unsurprisingly) wasn't.
It also bothered me that childbearing (or the lack thereof) seemed to be such a sore point for these characters. For me, this sort of just reinforces the narrative that women have to have children in order to feel fulfilled or whole, and that notion sort of makes me uncomfortable. I feel lucky to have had my son every day, but if it hadn't been in the cards for me, then that would have been it. It isn't "Well of COURSE you're going to spend 30k+ on IVF" for everyone. I respect that everyone has different views on this subject, but I just didn't like the amount of emphasis placed on this aspect of the story.
Perhaps my biggest struggle, though, was this dialogue. The characters really did sound like they'd just waltzed off the set of a soap opera, or a bad daytime talk show. I rolled my eyes many times, and the sappy 'perfect' ending just solidified that feeling. This is also in NO WAY a thriller, or even a suspense book, so other than some semi-obsessive behavior, there's nothing scary or intriguing here. I'd cite some examples. but I didn't pick any at the time and don't have any desire to relive those moments.
Finishing this one, however, was much like the end of the aforementioned cat bath: I got through it, but I can't say it was worth my time...and now *I* just feel like I need a long shower.
2.5 stars, rounded down
Have you ever been trapped on a subway car with a couple that just SHOULD NOT be together...and you get to subsequently listen to their petty and obnoxious argument?
Now picture that one half of this couple is a highly overrated and slightly washed up alt-country star...and the other half is an obsessive fangirl who just couldn't move on.
Then toss in the 'one that got away' for the man to stare at longingly from across the car...and you'd (somewhat) have this book.
Said musician is Jake Danner, leading man of a band called Danner Lane, and at a concert in 2013 he meets Molly Diamond, a would-be writer. He writes her a song, titled fittingly "Molly's Song" (heavy eye roll) that helps propel the band to fame, but Jake's bad behavior (you can guess what that is) and other circumstances drive the couple apart.
Years later, Molly has put aside, well, ALL of her has-been dreams, from being Mrs. Rock Royalty to being a star novelist and has settled into domestic bliss with Hunter, a friend who became much more, and is raising a young daughter Stella. She doesn't quite fit in to the wealthy suburb, however, and trying to have another child has made her feel lonely and frustrated. Amidst these IVF struggles, she just HAPPENS to meet Sabrina at her yoga studio, a woman who can SO relate (OMG) and Molly feels she's finally found a kindred spirit. But just how close IS Sabrina to Molly? Was this chance encounter a coincidence...or a highly orchestrated move from a woman who knows more than just the lyrics to Molly's Song...but their inspiration itself? Is she there to provide a shoulder...or to simply tackle some unfinished business of her own?
After mixed feelings about my last Lovering book (namely that the big twist was simply revealed too soon, and was followed by a bit too much exposition) this striking cover caught my eye and I figured I'd give this one a try. I'm all for a good story of obsession. HOWEVER what I did not bargain for from the beginning with this book is that much like giving a feline a bath, this one was mostly a catty, and soapy mess.
These characters were not only unlikable to me, but were ridiculously immature. Jake is supposedly such a drool worthy rock god that we are supposed to ignore the fact that he's...a stereotypical, womanizing rocker. He's also referred to as "Tim McGraw meets Kurt Cobain." Blech. And don't get me started on his TERRIBLE lyrics...I think there was more than one reason the band struggled. But that's neither here nor there in terms of this story.
This bouncing timeline was just one more thing to add to the overall frustration I felt while reading this book. I understand it was necessary in some respects, but it wasn't executed well and most of the 'past' sections could have been shorter, or just eliminated entirely, because they felt repetitive. We get it: Molly thinks he's the perfect man and can't get over him. Their relationship was incredible until it (unsurprisingly) wasn't.
It also bothered me that childbearing (or the lack thereof) seemed to be such a sore point for these characters. For me, this sort of just reinforces the narrative that women have to have children in order to feel fulfilled or whole, and that notion sort of makes me uncomfortable. I feel lucky to have had my son every day, but if it hadn't been in the cards for me, then that would have been it. It isn't "Well of COURSE you're going to spend 30k+ on IVF" for everyone. I respect that everyone has different views on this subject, but I just didn't like the amount of emphasis placed on this aspect of the story.
Perhaps my biggest struggle, though, was this dialogue. The characters really did sound like they'd just waltzed off the set of a soap opera, or a bad daytime talk show. I rolled my eyes many times, and the sappy 'perfect' ending just solidified that feeling. This is also in NO WAY a thriller, or even a suspense book, so other than some semi-obsessive behavior, there's nothing scary or intriguing here. I'd cite some examples. but I didn't pick any at the time and don't have any desire to relive those moments.
Finishing this one, however, was much like the end of the aforementioned cat bath: I got through it, but I can't say it was worth my time...and now *I* just feel like I need a long shower.
2.5 stars, rounded down
December 5, 2021
Just a tad bit of cray! Ok… a whole lot!🤪
Molly met Jake Danner when he was a rising rock star. Playing a gig in a local bar, Jake and Molly locked eyes and it was love at first guitar solo! But it shouldn’t be a big surprise that life with a rock star isn’t as magical as it sounds. Eventually, Molly moved on to a healthier relationship with Hunter.
Fast-forward several years, Molly, Hunter, and their daughter are living in a quiet, exclusive community when she meets the mysterious Sabrina. They quickly become besties. Sabrina however, may have an agenda…or two.😉. And Molly’s world is about to be rocked!
If you enjoy your thrillers with a heavy dose of over-the-top crazy, stalker-ish characters this is the perfect book for you. And Sabrina is the type of character we all love to hate!
Be prepared to clear your weekend calendar, because once you start, you won’t be putting this one down.
My first read by this author, and I plan on going back and reading her previous novel.
A buddy read with Susanne.
Posted to: https://books-are-a-girls-best-friend...
Thank you to NetGalley and St Martin’s Press
Molly met Jake Danner when he was a rising rock star. Playing a gig in a local bar, Jake and Molly locked eyes and it was love at first guitar solo! But it shouldn’t be a big surprise that life with a rock star isn’t as magical as it sounds. Eventually, Molly moved on to a healthier relationship with Hunter.
Fast-forward several years, Molly, Hunter, and their daughter are living in a quiet, exclusive community when she meets the mysterious Sabrina. They quickly become besties. Sabrina however, may have an agenda…or two.😉. And Molly’s world is about to be rocked!
If you enjoy your thrillers with a heavy dose of over-the-top crazy, stalker-ish characters this is the perfect book for you. And Sabrina is the type of character we all love to hate!
Be prepared to clear your weekend calendar, because once you start, you won’t be putting this one down.
My first read by this author, and I plan on going back and reading her previous novel.
A buddy read with Susanne.
Posted to: https://books-are-a-girls-best-friend...
Thank you to NetGalley and St Martin’s Press
June 15, 2022
Happy publishing day!!
Wow! This book was unputdownable for me!! So, this book was not what I was expecting, but in a really good way!! I went into it thinking it would be super suspenseful, but it was more along the lines of a psychological drama, with some romance and a little mystery mixed in. I thoroughly enjoyed this book and found myself lost in it quickly. The storyline was fantastic, super interesting, and it kept me flipping the pages. The character development in this book was superb! I’ve not read anything by Carola Lovering before, but I just ordered one of her previous books and will definitely be checking out her future books!
Thank you St. Martins Press and Net Galley for an ARC in return for my honest review.
Wow! This book was unputdownable for me!! So, this book was not what I was expecting, but in a really good way!! I went into it thinking it would be super suspenseful, but it was more along the lines of a psychological drama, with some romance and a little mystery mixed in. I thoroughly enjoyed this book and found myself lost in it quickly. The storyline was fantastic, super interesting, and it kept me flipping the pages. The character development in this book was superb! I’ve not read anything by Carola Lovering before, but I just ordered one of her previous books and will definitely be checking out her future books!
Thank you St. Martins Press and Net Galley for an ARC in return for my honest review.
June 17, 2022
2.5 stars, nothing spectacular here.
Thanks to some trusted GR reviewer friends, I had adjusted my expectations for this one and went in knowing it was a domestic drama, not a thriller. Yet still, I didn't find much to connect with here. I didn't like any of the characters and the plot was kind of been there, done that.
We have three points of view, all of them are selfish in their own ways, and some of them are crazy stalkers. It's a straightforward story overall though, the characters only think about themselves and what they want. It annoyed me to no end that Molly, an intelligent woman with a master's degree, is basically hanging around wanting these men to take care of her and encourage her rather than being strong and pursuing her writing ambitions herself. All of the characters acted like love and being in love with particular people was the ultimate thing in life and without it they were empty shells worth nothing. I just wanted to shake all of them and tell them that they are grown adults and they should act like it and stop wallowing in teenage angst well past the teen years.
I'm not sure this author is for me, I don't get into the sappy melodrama and soap opera-style drama. I listened to part of this as an audiobook and did like the full cast narration. It kept me more invested than reading it on the page.
I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book, all opinions are my own.
Thanks to some trusted GR reviewer friends, I had adjusted my expectations for this one and went in knowing it was a domestic drama, not a thriller. Yet still, I didn't find much to connect with here. I didn't like any of the characters and the plot was kind of been there, done that.
We have three points of view, all of them are selfish in their own ways, and some of them are crazy stalkers. It's a straightforward story overall though, the characters only think about themselves and what they want. It annoyed me to no end that Molly, an intelligent woman with a master's degree, is basically hanging around wanting these men to take care of her and encourage her rather than being strong and pursuing her writing ambitions herself. All of the characters acted like love and being in love with particular people was the ultimate thing in life and without it they were empty shells worth nothing. I just wanted to shake all of them and tell them that they are grown adults and they should act like it and stop wallowing in teenage angst well past the teen years.
I'm not sure this author is for me, I don't get into the sappy melodrama and soap opera-style drama. I listened to part of this as an audiobook and did like the full cast narration. It kept me more invested than reading it on the page.
I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book, all opinions are my own.
May 19, 2022
Can’t Look Away by Carola Lovering is a 2022 St. Martin’s Press publication.
Well, I’m at a loss for words here. I do not like to give low ratings, but it is becoming an epidemic in 2022. I loved the first book I read by this author, so I was highly anticipating this one. Sadly, this book was a big letdown.
I don’t see the point in wasting time on the critique- I did finish the book- mainly because I kept waiting for some big reveal or plot twist that never materialized. The conclusion left me wondering what the point of the story was and why I wasted my time on it.
I normally avoid one-star ratings because I hate the added attention they draw- choosing to either DNF or quietly remove the book from my list- but I did read it from start to finish, and feel obligated to give it a star rating- so to avoid scrutiny or challenges to my rating I’m kindly handing this one a 1.5 star rating.
Well, I’m at a loss for words here. I do not like to give low ratings, but it is becoming an epidemic in 2022. I loved the first book I read by this author, so I was highly anticipating this one. Sadly, this book was a big letdown.
I don’t see the point in wasting time on the critique- I did finish the book- mainly because I kept waiting for some big reveal or plot twist that never materialized. The conclusion left me wondering what the point of the story was and why I wasted my time on it.
I normally avoid one-star ratings because I hate the added attention they draw- choosing to either DNF or quietly remove the book from my list- but I did read it from start to finish, and feel obligated to give it a star rating- so to avoid scrutiny or challenges to my rating I’m kindly handing this one a 1.5 star rating.
October 31, 2021
High School Reunion.
Who doesn’t want to experience young love again? The angst, jealousy, and gaming frenemies were not only present and accounted for, they were the WHOLE book.
While the characters in Can’t Look Away are not actually in high school and range from age twenty three to thirty three, the feeling was very juvenile. Don’t get me wrong, I’ve loved some YA books, but they’ve been written in a unique or lyrical way and possessed adult elements.
Billed as a Thriller, this was more Chick Lit or Romance. I made it to the end with some effort, but my continuing thought process was “Is this all?” I was bored and clearly not the right audience.
I wish I’d played hooky on this one.
Thank you to St Martin’s Press, the author, and NetGalley for my ARC. I was so looking forward to it that I read it within days of downloading and I’m sorry that I couldn’t be more positive.
Who doesn’t want to experience young love again? The angst, jealousy, and gaming frenemies were not only present and accounted for, they were the WHOLE book.
While the characters in Can’t Look Away are not actually in high school and range from age twenty three to thirty three, the feeling was very juvenile. Don’t get me wrong, I’ve loved some YA books, but they’ve been written in a unique or lyrical way and possessed adult elements.
Billed as a Thriller, this was more Chick Lit or Romance. I made it to the end with some effort, but my continuing thought process was “Is this all?” I was bored and clearly not the right audience.
I wish I’d played hooky on this one.
Thank you to St Martin’s Press, the author, and NetGalley for my ARC. I was so looking forward to it that I read it within days of downloading and I’m sorry that I couldn’t be more positive.
January 9, 2022
This is an addictive suspenseful story about the one that got away. It does have some Lifetime qualities, but it gave me enough interest to stay connected to it until the end. I could not wait to find out what becomes of a past love and if the feelings were still there.
7 years back, Molly and Jake were a beautiful couple envied by many. He was climbing the charts with his band and a hit song written exclusively for her. After trust issues and his rising popularity, many events obstruct their relationship from staying connected. Molly decides to move on without him and gives up her dreams of a writing career and teaches yoga instead.
Molly meets Hunter, the perfect husband. They are struggling to conceive their second child, but she is blessed to have met a perfect father and companion. Living in a wealthy suburb, she finds it hard to connect with friends until Sabrina walks into her life. She enjoys her company. Little does Molly know Sabrina has a hidden evil agenda to accomplish.
Jake, unknowingly, is about to waltz back into Molly's life. Is the connection still there? How did this happen and how is it going to play out?
At times, it appeared too easy, and the characters were not catching on.... LOL....but other than that it worked for me. It was a suspenseful story, and definitely a psychotic female character. The last part appeared to be lacking some information, but the ending is guaranteed to work for many.
Thank you NetGalley and St. Martin's Press for this title in exchange for my review.
7 years back, Molly and Jake were a beautiful couple envied by many. He was climbing the charts with his band and a hit song written exclusively for her. After trust issues and his rising popularity, many events obstruct their relationship from staying connected. Molly decides to move on without him and gives up her dreams of a writing career and teaches yoga instead.
Molly meets Hunter, the perfect husband. They are struggling to conceive their second child, but she is blessed to have met a perfect father and companion. Living in a wealthy suburb, she finds it hard to connect with friends until Sabrina walks into her life. She enjoys her company. Little does Molly know Sabrina has a hidden evil agenda to accomplish.
Jake, unknowingly, is about to waltz back into Molly's life. Is the connection still there? How did this happen and how is it going to play out?
At times, it appeared too easy, and the characters were not catching on.... LOL....but other than that it worked for me. It was a suspenseful story, and definitely a psychotic female character. The last part appeared to be lacking some information, but the ending is guaranteed to work for many.
Thank you NetGalley and St. Martin's Press for this title in exchange for my review.
July 22, 2023
It must be me. I encourage readers to read many other reviews because many readers enjoyed Can't Look Away.
I listened to it on audiobook and it ended up in my DNF pile. The evaluation of women's bodies and the shallowness of the women's concerns didn't do it for me. I prefer strong, gritty, determined, assertive women protagonists.
I listened to it on audiobook and it ended up in my DNF pile. The evaluation of women's bodies and the shallowness of the women's concerns didn't do it for me. I prefer strong, gritty, determined, assertive women protagonists.
May 28, 2022
3.5 stars
2013
Molly Diamond has a dream of becoming a writer while working as a Barista. One night she goes to a concert and locks eyes with the handsome and charismatic lead singer, Jake Danner. It's love at first sight! It’s all consuming! It burns bright! They intend to spend their lives together! Jack writes at song about Molly and it becomes the biggest hit of his (and his band’s) career.
Almost a decade later
Molly is happily married to Hunter and has a five-year-old daughter, Stella. They have moved from the city to Flynn Cove, Connecticut. Molly is working as a Yoga instructor and is content with her life. Then one day her song comes on the radio, “Molly’s Song” and it is quite the blast from the past. As she listens to Jack being interviewed, she can't help but take a walk down memory lane.
Sabrina is new to the neighborhood and she and Molly become fast friends after meeting at the Yoga Studio where Molly teaches. Molly is happy, she hasn't made too many friends as an adult and she and Sabrina get along so well. They both live near each other and share similar struggles. Little does Molly know; Sabrina has secrets....
Sabrina has moved to Flynn Cove, Connecticut with an agenda. As her agenda beings to unfold so does the plot of this book. The more we learn, the more dramatic this book becomes!
Told in 2013 and nearly a decade later, this book looks at dreams, romance, choices, consequences, and second chances. I enjoyed the books and its drama. It read like a nighttime soap opera to me. There is drama galore. There are questionable actions and decisions made by characters. This will make it or break it for some readers, IMO. I found myself thinking about the decisions and actions made in this book upon finishing it. Some were morally and ethically wrong and one character did something in front of others, that I was shocked did not face any legal consequences or chargers.
I also enjoyed how it showed growth and dreams. Everyone has them. How life changes and how you look at things when you are young and then some time later, looking back, with age, experience, and wisdom, you can look at things differently.
This is a polarizing book that readers will either enjoy or find fault with. I enjoyed it. I had both the audiobook and e-book version. I enjoyed listening to the audio and the narrators. Their narration really worked for me, and I wonder if I only read the book instead of reading and listening to it, would I have enjoyed it as much? For me, I believe the narrators elevated the book for me.
Readers are privy to everything going on in this book. There are some twists, but readers will see them coming. There is nothing to figure out. This is a sit-back-and-enjoy-the-ride type of book For me this was dramatic, fun, entertaining and I had a hard time putting this down.
Thank you to St. Martin's Press and Macmillan Audio and NetGalley who provided me with a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. All the thoughts and opinions are my own.
Read more of my reviews at www.openbookposts.com
2013
Molly Diamond has a dream of becoming a writer while working as a Barista. One night she goes to a concert and locks eyes with the handsome and charismatic lead singer, Jake Danner. It's love at first sight! It’s all consuming! It burns bright! They intend to spend their lives together! Jack writes at song about Molly and it becomes the biggest hit of his (and his band’s) career.
Almost a decade later
Molly is happily married to Hunter and has a five-year-old daughter, Stella. They have moved from the city to Flynn Cove, Connecticut. Molly is working as a Yoga instructor and is content with her life. Then one day her song comes on the radio, “Molly’s Song” and it is quite the blast from the past. As she listens to Jack being interviewed, she can't help but take a walk down memory lane.
Sabrina is new to the neighborhood and she and Molly become fast friends after meeting at the Yoga Studio where Molly teaches. Molly is happy, she hasn't made too many friends as an adult and she and Sabrina get along so well. They both live near each other and share similar struggles. Little does Molly know; Sabrina has secrets....
Sabrina has moved to Flynn Cove, Connecticut with an agenda. As her agenda beings to unfold so does the plot of this book. The more we learn, the more dramatic this book becomes!
Told in 2013 and nearly a decade later, this book looks at dreams, romance, choices, consequences, and second chances. I enjoyed the books and its drama. It read like a nighttime soap opera to me. There is drama galore. There are questionable actions and decisions made by characters. This will make it or break it for some readers, IMO. I found myself thinking about the decisions and actions made in this book upon finishing it. Some were morally and ethically wrong and one character did something in front of others, that I was shocked did not face any legal consequences or chargers.
I also enjoyed how it showed growth and dreams. Everyone has them. How life changes and how you look at things when you are young and then some time later, looking back, with age, experience, and wisdom, you can look at things differently.
This is a polarizing book that readers will either enjoy or find fault with. I enjoyed it. I had both the audiobook and e-book version. I enjoyed listening to the audio and the narrators. Their narration really worked for me, and I wonder if I only read the book instead of reading and listening to it, would I have enjoyed it as much? For me, I believe the narrators elevated the book for me.
Readers are privy to everything going on in this book. There are some twists, but readers will see them coming. There is nothing to figure out. This is a sit-back-and-enjoy-the-ride type of book For me this was dramatic, fun, entertaining and I had a hard time putting this down.
Thank you to St. Martin's Press and Macmillan Audio and NetGalley who provided me with a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. All the thoughts and opinions are my own.
Read more of my reviews at www.openbookposts.com
March 17, 2023
Sabrina, Jake, and Molly are in a love triangle. What's scary is this: Sabrina is the only one who knows. She is also our only perspective which is in the first person. So, we get to watch her play the long game and see that she is a manipulating (ahem) B-word. One thing I really liked about this story was the opportunity to watch for clues and see how Sabrina was pulling the strings and causing chaos. Another was the band that is a prominent piece of the plot -- Jake is the frontman. This is quite low-key as far as thrillers go. There is one perilous scene and the rest is domestic drama at a 5-star level (in my humble opinion). So, why not five stars for the rating? Well, the f-bombs are overused (you are totally correct on that point, Kat) and the author seems to be obsessed with Frozen. There is one paragraph where that movie is referenced four times! It is a Frozen birthday party, but come on. (Kat, you also noted that shortcoming in your review.) That's my story and I'm sticking to it.
I liked this one better than Lovering's latest title: Tell Me Lies, but not as much as I liked Too Good to Be True
I liked this one better than Lovering's latest title: Tell Me Lies, but not as much as I liked Too Good to Be True
December 8, 2022
"Can't Look Away" by Carola Lovering is a genre blend of Domestic Drama, Women's Fiction, and Suspense/Mystery!
Molly Diamond is in love with Jake Danner and dreams of becoming a writer. Jake Danner is in love with Molly Diamond and dreams of becoming a rock star. Molly's dream sparks to life with the support and a big push from Jake. Jake's dream comes to fruition when he writes a song about Molly and the world takes notice.
Nine years later, Molly is living happily in the suburbs with her husband, Hunter, and five-year-old daughter, Stella. Life is good but she doesn't connect with the other women in their upscale community and she's incredibly lonely. Then she meets newcomer Sabrina, finds they have several interests in common and a new friendship develops.
It's also when Molly's life takes an unexpected turn...
I was super excited to read this story when I saw the author's description as blended genres of Domestic Drama, Women's Fiction, and Suspense/Mystery. I loved how it began and enjoyed reading about the early relationship between Jake and Molly. I had high hopes of a great read and was all in for the drama part but what I wasn't expecting was it morphing into a story about obsession.
I'll be up-front and tell you I'm more of a Women's Fiction/Literary Fiction lover than a Suspense/Mystery kind of gal. That's why I enjoyed reading about the relationships and why Sabrina is the one character in this story I could do without. She causes this story to go 'haywire' and it greatly reduces the value of the other characters.
There is one scene, in particular, at the end of the book that speaks to the obscene power of Sabrina's character and how it overtakes the story. What happened after that made no sense to me and the remainder of the book fell flat. With that said, I did find the writing easy to read, enjoyed the multiple timelines, and I never wanted to stop reading. I liked it but I didn't love it...
Thank you to NetGalley, St. Martin's Press, and Carola Lovering for a free ARC of this book. It has been an honor to give my honest and voluntary review.
Molly Diamond is in love with Jake Danner and dreams of becoming a writer. Jake Danner is in love with Molly Diamond and dreams of becoming a rock star. Molly's dream sparks to life with the support and a big push from Jake. Jake's dream comes to fruition when he writes a song about Molly and the world takes notice.
Nine years later, Molly is living happily in the suburbs with her husband, Hunter, and five-year-old daughter, Stella. Life is good but she doesn't connect with the other women in their upscale community and she's incredibly lonely. Then she meets newcomer Sabrina, finds they have several interests in common and a new friendship develops.
It's also when Molly's life takes an unexpected turn...
I was super excited to read this story when I saw the author's description as blended genres of Domestic Drama, Women's Fiction, and Suspense/Mystery. I loved how it began and enjoyed reading about the early relationship between Jake and Molly. I had high hopes of a great read and was all in for the drama part but what I wasn't expecting was it morphing into a story about obsession.
I'll be up-front and tell you I'm more of a Women's Fiction/Literary Fiction lover than a Suspense/Mystery kind of gal. That's why I enjoyed reading about the relationships and why Sabrina is the one character in this story I could do without. She causes this story to go 'haywire' and it greatly reduces the value of the other characters.
There is one scene, in particular, at the end of the book that speaks to the obscene power of Sabrina's character and how it overtakes the story. What happened after that made no sense to me and the remainder of the book fell flat. With that said, I did find the writing easy to read, enjoyed the multiple timelines, and I never wanted to stop reading. I liked it but I didn't love it...
Thank you to NetGalley, St. Martin's Press, and Carola Lovering for a free ARC of this book. It has been an honor to give my honest and voluntary review.
May 5, 2022
"Obsession has always interested me. The best artists, the most brilliant innovators, they've all been driven by it. It straddles the line between passion and insanity; it instigates creativity and genius despite the darkness in which it lingers. To be obsessed with someone or something is to adopt a single-minded drive that reduces the rest of the world to sheer insignificance."
Molly is 23 years old and living in New York City. She has tightknit group of supportive girlfriends and when one of them asks her to be their wing-woman for the night by hitting up a seedy bar that her crush is at Molly can't say no. She has no idea that this night will change her life forever.
The band playing that night is Danner Lane led by the very sexy and very charismatic, Jake Danner. When his eyes find hers during their warm up they never leave her for the rest of the night. Kismet? Serendipity? Call it what you will but these two people don't just want to be together. They NEED to be together.
Everything is perfect. They are perfect. Danner Lane is getting more and more successful pulling Jake away on tour more often than Molly would like. Jake, being as irresponsible as he is, often forgets to call her when he's away. Weeks go by while Molly sits worrying and wondering if he's okay. When Molly receives an email from an unknown source she is devastated when it's a picture of Jake and another woman together. This plants the seed of uncertainty in Molly's heart in which she can't seem to overcome no matter what Jake's excuses are.
Flash forward to the present.
Molly is happily married to a wonderful man and they have a beautiful five year old daughter, Stella. They live in a small but ritzy Connecticut town where she teaches yoga at her yoga studio. One day she meets Sabrina at one of her classes and they really hit it off. She's ecstatic, feeling like she's finally made a true friend but it appears that Sabrina has a motive all her own and that motive is less than genuine.
This book, along with all of Lovering's books, have very mixed reviews. I have friends that downright hated this, some that were lukewarm about it, and others - like myself - that absolutely loved it. I'm not surprised that I loved it as I have loved her two previous books as well.
No one writes about love, longing, dysfunction, and obsession quite like Lovering does. Her books make me feel ALL of the feels. I'm a person that is all too familiar with these types of relationships so perhaps that's why I have such an affinity for her work. I can simply relate to the female characters she creates and I, too, used to get weak-kneed over the charming yet selfish suiters that these women inevitably choose. I hate to say it's life experiences that make me love her books but I do think it's a factor I can't ignore.
I cared about all of the characters here. All of them. Even Sabrina, the one with hidden motives, because I could also see and understand where she was coming from too. It all gets a little bit blurry, just like in real life, when you can empathize with someone even though you don't necessarily agree with the choices their making.
I'm emotionally spent after reading this. I devoured this book word for word and page by page and I dreaded having to put it down. I can't wait to see how Lovering plans to break my heart next. ALL. THE. STARS.
Thank you to NetGalley and St. Martin's Press for my complimentary copy.
Molly is 23 years old and living in New York City. She has tightknit group of supportive girlfriends and when one of them asks her to be their wing-woman for the night by hitting up a seedy bar that her crush is at Molly can't say no. She has no idea that this night will change her life forever.
The band playing that night is Danner Lane led by the very sexy and very charismatic, Jake Danner. When his eyes find hers during their warm up they never leave her for the rest of the night. Kismet? Serendipity? Call it what you will but these two people don't just want to be together. They NEED to be together.
Everything is perfect. They are perfect. Danner Lane is getting more and more successful pulling Jake away on tour more often than Molly would like. Jake, being as irresponsible as he is, often forgets to call her when he's away. Weeks go by while Molly sits worrying and wondering if he's okay. When Molly receives an email from an unknown source she is devastated when it's a picture of Jake and another woman together. This plants the seed of uncertainty in Molly's heart in which she can't seem to overcome no matter what Jake's excuses are.
Flash forward to the present.
Molly is happily married to a wonderful man and they have a beautiful five year old daughter, Stella. They live in a small but ritzy Connecticut town where she teaches yoga at her yoga studio. One day she meets Sabrina at one of her classes and they really hit it off. She's ecstatic, feeling like she's finally made a true friend but it appears that Sabrina has a motive all her own and that motive is less than genuine.
This book, along with all of Lovering's books, have very mixed reviews. I have friends that downright hated this, some that were lukewarm about it, and others - like myself - that absolutely loved it. I'm not surprised that I loved it as I have loved her two previous books as well.
No one writes about love, longing, dysfunction, and obsession quite like Lovering does. Her books make me feel ALL of the feels. I'm a person that is all too familiar with these types of relationships so perhaps that's why I have such an affinity for her work. I can simply relate to the female characters she creates and I, too, used to get weak-kneed over the charming yet selfish suiters that these women inevitably choose. I hate to say it's life experiences that make me love her books but I do think it's a factor I can't ignore.
I cared about all of the characters here. All of them. Even Sabrina, the one with hidden motives, because I could also see and understand where she was coming from too. It all gets a little bit blurry, just like in real life, when you can empathize with someone even though you don't necessarily agree with the choices their making.
I'm emotionally spent after reading this. I devoured this book word for word and page by page and I dreaded having to put it down. I can't wait to see how Lovering plans to break my heart next. ALL. THE. STARS.
Thank you to NetGalley and St. Martin's Press for my complimentary copy.
June 22, 2022
This one is really tricky to rate. I liked the storyline, the characters were great but nothing really stood out that I would rate it higher than a 3.
I think it really needed a jaw drop moment, which was lacking. As I said, I liked the story and it had its moments, just needed a little bit more.
I think it really needed a jaw drop moment, which was lacking. As I said, I liked the story and it had its moments, just needed a little bit more.
December 6, 2022
3.5 stars
I feel like an outlier because I liked Can’t Look Away. I know a lot of people didn’t.
I’ve read some of the negative reviews, and I don’t disagree with any of the points that have been made. But for some reason, I had an enjoyable experience with it. Maybe it’s the fact that I listened to it on audio, and the great narration masked its flaws? Or maybe it’s because I knew to expect a domestic drama rather than a thriller?
Either way, I found Carola Lovering’s tale of obsessive love to be solid entertainment for my listening ears. I couldn’t help it – I was drawn into all the crazy shenanigans. And the way Lovering expertly tells the story through short, alternating perspectives of the three main characters only sucked me in more.
I will say this: the ending is too pretty. I hoped for a messier mess to be left, for there to be further repercussions for a character or two. Rarely is life so neat and tidy, and I wanted to see realistic fallout from the events in the book. But I didn’t get it.
Can’t Look Away is my first read from Lovering, and I suspect I’ll now be checking out her backlist. Audio-style, though. I’d hate to switch and ruin a good thing.
I feel like an outlier because I liked Can’t Look Away. I know a lot of people didn’t.
I’ve read some of the negative reviews, and I don’t disagree with any of the points that have been made. But for some reason, I had an enjoyable experience with it. Maybe it’s the fact that I listened to it on audio, and the great narration masked its flaws? Or maybe it’s because I knew to expect a domestic drama rather than a thriller?
Either way, I found Carola Lovering’s tale of obsessive love to be solid entertainment for my listening ears. I couldn’t help it – I was drawn into all the crazy shenanigans. And the way Lovering expertly tells the story through short, alternating perspectives of the three main characters only sucked me in more.
I will say this: the ending is too pretty. I hoped for a messier mess to be left, for there to be further repercussions for a character or two. Rarely is life so neat and tidy, and I wanted to see realistic fallout from the events in the book. But I didn’t get it.
Can’t Look Away is my first read from Lovering, and I suspect I’ll now be checking out her backlist. Audio-style, though. I’d hate to switch and ruin a good thing.
October 28, 2022
I really enjoyed this! This book is definitely not a thriller. If you go in looking for a twisty thriller you will be extremely disappointed. If you want a soapy drama filled with betrayal, deception, heartache and a dash of intrigue, this is for you. I would love to see this play out through an episodic drama on Netflix. I was entertained from beginning to end and was quickly pulled into the lives of the characters and invested in the outcome of their lives. Very addictive! Thank you NetGalley and St. Martin’s Press for my copy.
April 16, 2022
Editing my review to add that I see Can't Look Away as straddling a few different genres: part domestic drama, part women's fiction, part romance, part suspense/mystery. I'm always eager to explore how obsession drives us to do crazy things, and I hope you'll love being along for this wild ride.
June 30, 2022
I’m not sure why I’m ambivalent about this novel. Maybe because I didn’t love the characters or identify with them.
When Molly is 23, she has a great romance with Jake Danner, who becomes a successful musician whose band lands a popular song on the radio. Though Molly and Jake withstand some of the challenges of having one of them on the road much of the time, like so many young loves, it doesn’t survive. But Molly does well for herself, falling in love with a successful man and having one child. Though Hunter makes money by regular people’s standards, since they’ve moved to Flynn Cove, they are on the lower end of the economic spectrum, particularly since trying to get pregnant a second time has involved a lot of expensive medical science.
Also, Molly doesn’t fit in with the wealthy women in the area. Teaching yoga used to be meaningful, but it was never her life goal, and now it’s become just something to do. When a woman named Sabrina walks in the studio, they become friends. Though Sabrina is wealthy and beautiful, she also seems down to earth. The key word in that sentence is “seems.”
It’s so hard for me to understand Sabrina’s motivations. Yes, she experienced trauma and loss, but so does everyone who survives any part of life. I could say more, but then I’d be giving too much away.
Thanks to NetGalley for the opportunity to review this novel.
When Molly is 23, she has a great romance with Jake Danner, who becomes a successful musician whose band lands a popular song on the radio. Though Molly and Jake withstand some of the challenges of having one of them on the road much of the time, like so many young loves, it doesn’t survive. But Molly does well for herself, falling in love with a successful man and having one child. Though Hunter makes money by regular people’s standards, since they’ve moved to Flynn Cove, they are on the lower end of the economic spectrum, particularly since trying to get pregnant a second time has involved a lot of expensive medical science.
Also, Molly doesn’t fit in with the wealthy women in the area. Teaching yoga used to be meaningful, but it was never her life goal, and now it’s become just something to do. When a woman named Sabrina walks in the studio, they become friends. Though Sabrina is wealthy and beautiful, she also seems down to earth. The key word in that sentence is “seems.”
It’s so hard for me to understand Sabrina’s motivations. Yes, she experienced trauma and loss, but so does everyone who survives any part of life. I could say more, but then I’d be giving too much away.
Thanks to NetGalley for the opportunity to review this novel.
June 28, 2022
Call me crazy but I actually enjoyed this neighborhood drama.
Jake and Molly were an item once.
In 2013, Molly was a 23-year-old young woman aspiring to be a writer. She had good friends and is enjoying a night out with them when she meets Jake.
Jake Danner is the lead singer of a band that is getting recognized and he is hoping for his big break.
Molly and Jake's paths cross during one of his concerts and after locking eyes, they share a moment of connection. Afterward, Jake asks a friend of hers for her phone number. The rest is history or so it should be. Despite their great chemistry and love for each other, their relationship is not to be.
In 2022, Molly is married to Hunter and has a five-year-old daughter, Stella. Molly wants another child but she is dealing with infertility issues when she meets a young woman, Sabrina who seems to understand what Molly is going through. A blooming friendship ensues. One night, Molly and Hunter are invited over to have dinner. Unbeknown to Molly, Sabrina's husband is none other than Jake.
With so many unresolved issues, Molly and Jake seem to be pulled into one another's lives. Together they wondered what forces took them apart. Learning the truth might hurt more than they think.
I didn't particularly like Jake. He was selfish and had grey areas in regards to faithfulness. I did love Hunter all the way. Molly was nice and I understood her motivations. The same can't be said of Sabrina's.
Can't Look Away entertained me. The narrators Caitlin Davies, Karissa Vacker, and Zachary Webber did a good job becoming Molly, Jake, and Sabrina. Between the past and present chapters and the 3 POVs, they kept things straight for me.
Cliffhanger: No
3.5/5 Fangs
A complimentary copy was provided by St. Martin's Press via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
MrsLeif's Two Fangs About It | Facebook | Twitter | Instagram
Jake and Molly were an item once.
In 2013, Molly was a 23-year-old young woman aspiring to be a writer. She had good friends and is enjoying a night out with them when she meets Jake.
Jake Danner is the lead singer of a band that is getting recognized and he is hoping for his big break.
Molly and Jake's paths cross during one of his concerts and after locking eyes, they share a moment of connection. Afterward, Jake asks a friend of hers for her phone number. The rest is history or so it should be. Despite their great chemistry and love for each other, their relationship is not to be.
In 2022, Molly is married to Hunter and has a five-year-old daughter, Stella. Molly wants another child but she is dealing with infertility issues when she meets a young woman, Sabrina who seems to understand what Molly is going through. A blooming friendship ensues. One night, Molly and Hunter are invited over to have dinner. Unbeknown to Molly, Sabrina's husband is none other than Jake.
With so many unresolved issues, Molly and Jake seem to be pulled into one another's lives. Together they wondered what forces took them apart. Learning the truth might hurt more than they think.
I didn't particularly like Jake. He was selfish and had grey areas in regards to faithfulness. I did love Hunter all the way. Molly was nice and I understood her motivations. The same can't be said of Sabrina's.
Can't Look Away entertained me. The narrators Caitlin Davies, Karissa Vacker, and Zachary Webber did a good job becoming Molly, Jake, and Sabrina. Between the past and present chapters and the 3 POVs, they kept things straight for me.
Cliffhanger: No
3.5/5 Fangs
A complimentary copy was provided by St. Martin's Press via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
MrsLeif's Two Fangs About It | Facebook | Twitter | Instagram
September 29, 2022
I’ve said it a million times that my reactions could be blamed on right place/right time way more than 50% of the time. The giant banner advertising the series Tell Me Lies kept slapping me right in the face until I finally realized I had an unread Carola Lovering ARC sitting on the Kindle and I decided to give it a whirl.
First things first, I hate the cover. I mean you had to see that one coming. And a warning for anyone looking for a super twisty stabby good time, this probably isn’t the story for you. What it turned out being was sort of a love triangle . . . with a twist. Molly is married to Hunter but used to be rock star Jake’s muse. This is the story of Molly and Hunter’s present life in Connecticut interspersed with Molly and Jake’s love story from the past. I can’t imagine any of the big reveals will come as a huge shocker to most readers, but it was some tasty brain candy when my head wasn’t capable of retaining anything but soap opera style yumminess.
Can’t Look Away was a step up from Colleen Hoover’s style. Stick around 10 years and all the kids on BookTok will discover this author and tell y’all to read her *eyeroll*
3.5 Stars
ARC provided by NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. Thank you, NetGalley!
First things first, I hate the cover. I mean you had to see that one coming. And a warning for anyone looking for a super twisty stabby good time, this probably isn’t the story for you. What it turned out being was sort of a love triangle . . . with a twist. Molly is married to Hunter but used to be rock star Jake’s muse. This is the story of Molly and Hunter’s present life in Connecticut interspersed with Molly and Jake’s love story from the past. I can’t imagine any of the big reveals will come as a huge shocker to most readers, but it was some tasty brain candy when my head wasn’t capable of retaining anything but soap opera style yumminess.
Can’t Look Away was a step up from Colleen Hoover’s style. Stick around 10 years and all the kids on BookTok will discover this author and tell y’all to read her *eyeroll*
3.5 Stars
ARC provided by NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. Thank you, NetGalley!
December 19, 2021
While this was not exactly Too Good To Be True, Can’t Look Away, was somewhat entertaining, (even if it took place in a fictional Connecticut suburb (which is something I deplore!)).
In Can’t Look Away by Carola Lovering, we get to see Molly’s life first hand, in both the past (in 2013) and the present (in 2022).
In 2013, Molly was a 23-year-old New Yorker who fell head over heels for Jake Danner, the lead singer of Danner Lane. Doomed from the start these two never got the storybook ending they were hoping for.
In 2022, Molly is married to a man named Hunter and is living in fictional Flynn Cove, Connecticut, an extremely wealthy suburb. Here, Molly quickly becomes besties with a woman named Sabrina who wants more from Molly than just friendship. Sabrina has means and motive and she will not be deterred.
Life in Flynn Cove should be idyllic but secrets run amok in this tiny little town and Molly’s perfect little life is about to take a drastic turn.
A CRAZY domestic suspense that kept Kaceey and me absorbed from the start. If crazy is your thang, this just might be the book for you.
Thanks to NetGalley and Kejana Ayala at St. Martins Press for the arc.
Published on NetGalley, Goodreads, and Twitter
In Can’t Look Away by Carola Lovering, we get to see Molly’s life first hand, in both the past (in 2013) and the present (in 2022).
In 2013, Molly was a 23-year-old New Yorker who fell head over heels for Jake Danner, the lead singer of Danner Lane. Doomed from the start these two never got the storybook ending they were hoping for.
In 2022, Molly is married to a man named Hunter and is living in fictional Flynn Cove, Connecticut, an extremely wealthy suburb. Here, Molly quickly becomes besties with a woman named Sabrina who wants more from Molly than just friendship. Sabrina has means and motive and she will not be deterred.
Life in Flynn Cove should be idyllic but secrets run amok in this tiny little town and Molly’s perfect little life is about to take a drastic turn.
A CRAZY domestic suspense that kept Kaceey and me absorbed from the start. If crazy is your thang, this just might be the book for you.
Thanks to NetGalley and Kejana Ayala at St. Martins Press for the arc.
Published on NetGalley, Goodreads, and Twitter
June 13, 2022
3.25 rock star obsession stars
The main characters in this one are Molly Diamond and Jake Danner. Molly is an aspiring writer and Jake is on his way to becoming a bona fide rock star. Their eyes meet one night at a concert and then the romance starts, Jake even writes a hit song about her.
The book hops around in chronology and storytelling so we get teasers that the couple doesn’t have a happy ever after ending. And what often happens with rock stars? Obsessed fans! In Jake’s case, an old girlfriend just cannot let Jake go and she is dedicated her life to having him, no matter the cost.
Years later, we know that Molly is happily married, teaching yoga, and has a precocious daughter, and we slowly learn the details of how she’s ended up in Connecticut. It’s still a struggle for her to fit in so she’s excited to make a new friend in Sabrina.
With themes of the one you left behind, being famous not really making you happy, and creative muses, this one was an entertaining read, albeit an over-the-top ending.
Thank you to St. Martin's Press for the opportunity to read and review this one honestly.
The main characters in this one are Molly Diamond and Jake Danner. Molly is an aspiring writer and Jake is on his way to becoming a bona fide rock star. Their eyes meet one night at a concert and then the romance starts, Jake even writes a hit song about her.
The book hops around in chronology and storytelling so we get teasers that the couple doesn’t have a happy ever after ending. And what often happens with rock stars? Obsessed fans! In Jake’s case, an old girlfriend just cannot let Jake go and she is dedicated her life to having him, no matter the cost.
Years later, we know that Molly is happily married, teaching yoga, and has a precocious daughter, and we slowly learn the details of how she’s ended up in Connecticut. It’s still a struggle for her to fit in so she’s excited to make a new friend in Sabrina.
With themes of the one you left behind, being famous not really making you happy, and creative muses, this one was an entertaining read, albeit an over-the-top ending.
Thank you to St. Martin's Press for the opportunity to read and review this one honestly.
May 21, 2022
It would have been "too good to be true" if "Can't Look Away" was in the same league as "Too Good To Be True", author Carola Lovering's 2021 novel.
Sadly, "Can't Look Away"' had a plotline that was shallow with reveals that were unremarkable and predictable. 😭😢😭
I almost always enjoy "obsession" books with deeply flawed characters, but this book just fell flat.
The book was told from multiple POVs with shifting timelines.
The shifting timelines were dizzying and I felt that the book would have significantly benefited from a storyline that unfolded in chronological order.
The book dragged and midway through the book I found myself checking the timeline/chapters, silently asking myself "When is something earthshattering going to happen?" and "Are we there yet?".
I listened to the audiobook, read by Karissa Vacker (one of my favorite narrators) and a full cast. All of the narrators did a superb job and helped elevate the book's star rating.
Quite frankly, this 12-hour audiobook could have easily been a 2-hour book and I am being kind.
Carola Lovering's "Too Good to Be True" was one of my best reads of 2021 so I "can't look away" when this talented author releases future titles.
Nobody bats 1000%.
Special thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for providing me with an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
2.5 stars, rounded up.
Sadly, "Can't Look Away"' had a plotline that was shallow with reveals that were unremarkable and predictable. 😭😢😭
I almost always enjoy "obsession" books with deeply flawed characters, but this book just fell flat.
The book was told from multiple POVs with shifting timelines.
The shifting timelines were dizzying and I felt that the book would have significantly benefited from a storyline that unfolded in chronological order.
The book dragged and midway through the book I found myself checking the timeline/chapters, silently asking myself "When is something earthshattering going to happen?" and "Are we there yet?".
I listened to the audiobook, read by Karissa Vacker (one of my favorite narrators) and a full cast. All of the narrators did a superb job and helped elevate the book's star rating.
Quite frankly, this 12-hour audiobook could have easily been a 2-hour book and I am being kind.
Carola Lovering's "Too Good to Be True" was one of my best reads of 2021 so I "can't look away" when this talented author releases future titles.
Nobody bats 1000%.
Special thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for providing me with an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
2.5 stars, rounded up.
March 21, 2022
teetering between 4-4.5 stars. really enjoyed this book and it pulled me right out of a reading slump 👏🏼
this is definitely a romantic suspense—so don’t expect a thriller going it! there are twist and turns throughout, and each time i thought i guessed what was coming next, i was wrong.
reminded me more of TELL ME LIES than TOO GOOD TO BE TRUE. lots of music intertwined and gave me some DAISY JONES & THE SIX and EVERYTHING AFTER vibes.
full review to come on my IG closer to pub day! thanks to St Martin’s for the gifted copy.
this is definitely a romantic suspense—so don’t expect a thriller going it! there are twist and turns throughout, and each time i thought i guessed what was coming next, i was wrong.
reminded me more of TELL ME LIES than TOO GOOD TO BE TRUE. lots of music intertwined and gave me some DAISY JONES & THE SIX and EVERYTHING AFTER vibes.
full review to come on my IG closer to pub day! thanks to St Martin’s for the gifted copy.
December 4, 2022
2.5 stars
The marketing has falsely enticed me to read this mediocrity, when Can't Look Away was touted to be a 'sexy suspense novel' about obsessive love, I was anticipating something along the line of Rock Paper Scissors (Alice Feeney), or even He Will Be My Ruin (K.A. Tucker), but this was really just a slightly more dramatic women's fiction, and a pretty bland one at that.
This review might be partially unfair because I'm judging it against how it was conveyed to me (and comparing to my typical reading preference), instead of its rightful intent (and impression from an appropriate audience).
Can't Look Away comes across like a bad Lifetime movie, with shallow characters and melodramatic clichés. I'm not the reader who enjoy stories of middle class suburban wives digging up past affairs to afflict emotional turmoil towards each other (while complaining about country club membership), and that is basically the crux of the novel. The 'suspense' only exists structurally (multiple perspectives and time jumps to disorient and distract), instead of embedding within its narrative and building up to a meaningful climax. There's no chemistry or steam in the romance department either (I recall a kiss was as physical as it get on page), and characters are just generic White people being generically miserable ('he loves work more than me!' / 'She's my muse I can't live without her.' / 'I need vengeance because my husband is still emotionally attached to her.').
Overall, I was sold one thing and got another — Can't Look Away was a cringe to get through, but I'm sure there's an audience for it (like a women's fiction reader getting into thriller) as long as it's been correctly promoted.
**This ARC was provided by the publisher via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. Much appreciated!**
The marketing has falsely enticed me to read this mediocrity, when Can't Look Away was touted to be a 'sexy suspense novel' about obsessive love, I was anticipating something along the line of Rock Paper Scissors (Alice Feeney), or even He Will Be My Ruin (K.A. Tucker), but this was really just a slightly more dramatic women's fiction, and a pretty bland one at that.
This review might be partially unfair because I'm judging it against how it was conveyed to me (and comparing to my typical reading preference), instead of its rightful intent (and impression from an appropriate audience).
Can't Look Away comes across like a bad Lifetime movie, with shallow characters and melodramatic clichés. I'm not the reader who enjoy stories of middle class suburban wives digging up past affairs to afflict emotional turmoil towards each other (while complaining about country club membership), and that is basically the crux of the novel. The 'suspense' only exists structurally (multiple perspectives and time jumps to disorient and distract), instead of embedding within its narrative and building up to a meaningful climax. There's no chemistry or steam in the romance department either (I recall a kiss was as physical as it get on page), and characters are just generic White people being generically miserable ('he loves work more than me!' / 'She's my muse I can't live without her.' / 'I need vengeance because my husband is still emotionally attached to her.').
Overall, I was sold one thing and got another — Can't Look Away was a cringe to get through, but I'm sure there's an audience for it (like a women's fiction reader getting into thriller) as long as it's been correctly promoted.
**This ARC was provided by the publisher via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. Much appreciated!**
January 17, 2022
2.5 rounding up
To start off with, this wasn’t a bad book by any means, it just wasn’t for me. I was expecting a slow burn suspense novel and more so got a family drama.
This centers around Molly in two different time frames roughly a decade apart. We navigate through Molly’s relationships In each of these time intervals. In the present timeline we meet Molly’s family along with her new friend Sabrina. Something seems a little off with Sabrina but what, we do not know. Everything is certainly woven together well, there just isn’t much more to the novel then explore the relationships between these two families. This is set in a ritzy part of Connecticut so gave a little bit of Big Little Lies vibes but the depth wasn’t there.
I did like Too Good to be True, but this one fell flat for me. Just going to chalk it up to expectations were not in line with the content of book
Thanks to Netgalley and St. Martins Press for my copy in exchange for honest review
To start off with, this wasn’t a bad book by any means, it just wasn’t for me. I was expecting a slow burn suspense novel and more so got a family drama.
This centers around Molly in two different time frames roughly a decade apart. We navigate through Molly’s relationships In each of these time intervals. In the present timeline we meet Molly’s family along with her new friend Sabrina. Something seems a little off with Sabrina but what, we do not know. Everything is certainly woven together well, there just isn’t much more to the novel then explore the relationships between these two families. This is set in a ritzy part of Connecticut so gave a little bit of Big Little Lies vibes but the depth wasn’t there.
I did like Too Good to be True, but this one fell flat for me. Just going to chalk it up to expectations were not in line with the content of book
Thanks to Netgalley and St. Martins Press for my copy in exchange for honest review
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