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Northern Lights #2

A Change of View

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What if one morning you look in the mirror and no longer recognize the person looking back?

When Leelo can no longer identify herself by the roles that once defined her, it's both terrifying and liberating. Oh, she feels the loss, the grief, and then the anger, but when she inherits property up north, she jumps at the promise of freedom and independence.

Yet not everyone in her new community is what they seem, starting with the surly mountain man down the road.

As owner of the local fishing lodge, Roar is content with his everyday life. And the older he gets, the less he appreciates change. So when a blue-haired, tattooed ‘city girl’ moves into the old motel, shaking up his daily routine, he’s none too pleased.

Still, something about the woman’s easy smile and almost reckless grit has him step up as her keeper.

301 pages, Kindle Edition

First published July 30, 2017

319 people are currently reading
770 people want to read

About the author

Freya Barker

77 books1,898 followers
USA Today bestselling author Freya Barker loves writing about ordinary people with extraordinary stories.
Driven to make her books about 'real' people; she creates characters who are perhaps less than perfect, each struggling to find their own slice of happy, but just as deserving of romance, thrills and chills in their lives.

Recipient of the ReadFREE.ly 2019 Best Book We've Read All Year Award for "Covering Ollie, the 2015 RomCon “Reader’s Choice” Award for Best First Book, “Slim To None”, and Finalist for the 2017 Kindle Book Award with “From Dust”, Freya continues to add to her rapidly growing collection of published novels as she spins story after story with an endless supply of bruised and dented characters, vying for attention!

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Displaying 1 - 30 of 268 reviews
Profile Image for The Sassy Bookworm.
3,986 reviews2,857 followers
August 6, 2017
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descriptionGreat cover on this one! Excellent representation of the hero. Good composition and eye-catching titile work.description

descriptionI enjoyed this one but didn't love it as much as I did the two previous books in this series. The writing was still fantastic and the plot interesting. I liked both main characters. I wasn't sure about Leelo at the start as she came across a bit like a bitch. That said, I warmed up to her quickly. Roar I loved from page one right up until the very end. I especially love that this author writes older characters. The heroine was 46 and the hero 45.

There was an excellent array of secondary characters as well. I loved Charlie and especially Leelo's son Matt. There was some OW drama that I found a bit pointless, to be honest. Especially since it actually doesn't cause any issues and suddenly at 70%, the OW goes from being a jealous bitch to the heroines BFF (slight exaggeration) overnight. It didn't bother me overly much or factor into my rating, but "I" personally would have preferred that the author just made Patti a close friend who maybe was hoping for more and not the heroes former f@ck buddy. The mystery aspect was OK as well.

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What brought my rating down was this book felt SO long. I am used to this author writing low drama and slow moving books, but they still manage to keep me interested. Unfortunately, that was not the case with this one, and I found myself continuously glancing down to see how far along I was. Never a good sign. I am a fast reader, and after three solid hours of reading, I was STILL only at 50%. I felt like this could have been wrapped up in a satisfying ending about 50-70 pages earlier than it was. So yeah, I enjoyed it enough that I will continue to read the next books in this series (assuming there are going to be more) but it didn't quite live up to its predecessor. Still, yours truly here gives it a thumb up.description

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Profile Image for Mindy Lou's Book Review.
2,961 reviews780 followers
May 30, 2019
Another great read by Freya Barker! It did take a bit to warm up to the heroine, Leelo. She had been walked all over during her first marriage so I'm sure we were just seeing her deciding to not take crap anymore. At times it felt like she was overreacting. I can also appreciate that the author probably did this on purpose. She's really good about creating flawed characters that you can relate to.

I loved the hero, Roar. He's described as a hot lumberjack that's moody and growly. My cup of tea! These two did not hit it off right away but Roar was just such a good guy that came to Leelo's rescue no matter how stubborn she was. I loved him.

It doesn't take long for more to develop between these two. I really like how we got quality time with them together. Leelo is a divorced mom with grown kids who do play a part in their story. There is a small bit of other woman drama and a jerk of an ex husband. Neither thing had me loving this story any less.
Profile Image for ♥Rachel♥.
2,221 reviews909 followers
August 14, 2020
Leelo inherits a lodge/cabin rental property in Northern Ontario and decides to move up, renovate, and make a new life. She needs the change in scenery after a bitter divorce, but tackling the property updates proves harder than she bargained for. No worries, her growly neighbor Roar has taken upon himself to help out.

Roar owns the lodge up the road and so when he sees Leelo up on the roof on one of the cabins trying to repair damage during a thunderstorm he goes off on her for her recklessness. A dressing down that Leelo doesn’t appreciate, but he does help, and even with his gruff nature, it’s not long before sparks ignite between the two of them. However, they must fit in their romance between the dangers that come from someone trying to sabotage Leelo’s efforts to get her lodge up and running.

I got a definite Kristen Ashley vibe here with a bossy alpha male determined to protect, niceties be damned. Roar was a sweetie, but he was very direct and concise.

Leelo was a bit of a prickly pear at first, not taking to kindly to Roar’s take-charge attitude, but I could see where she was coming from after being walked all over by her husband and taking it for years. The divorce did some damage to her relationship with her kids, but I got that, too. I’m sure it’s hard when you’re going through hell not to complain about your cheating ex, but I was glad to see Leelo get a handle on that, rise above and be the bigger person. It made a huge difference with her kids, and I loved seeing them mend fences and draw close.

A Change of View
is the second in the Northern Lights series I’ve listened to by Freya Barker and I think I liked this one a little more than the first. I liked that it was a romance featured a mature couple, both are in their 40s. It’s not necessary to read the first book, because they are completely unrelated other than maybe a similar location? Which sounded beautiful! Rustic cabins in the forest with lake views? I’m ready to head there now.

I listened to the audio book and enjoyed the performance. Austin Barringer narrated Roar’s chapters, and I enjoyed his rough, masculine voice. He did well with the female parts, too. Anneliese Rennie performed Leelo’s chapters, and she did well, but I did think her voice sounded a little older than Leelo’s age and maybe not particularly feminine. Not sure what it was, but I got used to her as the book went on.

A copy was kindly provided by Spectrum Audio via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
Profile Image for Anna.
1,090 reviews7 followers
August 15, 2018
They didnt talk about safe sex, they didnt use condoms, they knew each other only some days...
The hero is some of this KA novels: only growls without speaking at all.
The heroine had some night stands before meeting H, i hope she DID USE f*cking condom then.
Safe read, Hero was all about our heroine, but i like safe sex in real life and my books!
Profile Image for Aly.
3,130 reviews
August 24, 2020
Quick, cute read.

This is a small town romance with a hot alpha male and an emotional, stubborn woman. I liked that Leelo was pretty self sufficient and didn't want to rely on others to do what needed to be done. She did have a temper and was quick to cry which I didn't love, but I like that she stood up for herself. Roar is a great leading man, he helps others in need without expecting payment or reimbursement and treats Leelo like a queen.

The plot had some drama that kept the plot moving, even though it was a bit obvious who was behind the sabotage. It did push Roar and Leelo together and helped everything wrap up nicely. Maybe now I'll go back and read book 1.

I received a copy of this book for free from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review
Profile Image for Harlow Stone.
Author 6 books668 followers
July 25, 2017
Freya Barker's book based in northern Ontario hits all the marks for a great summer read. Bearded man, lodge on a lake, and some heat that isn't just from the bonfires!
We meet Leelo, a great character in her forties who is in need of some major changes in life. Taking on the task of getting her late uncles motel up and running, she meets her new and very intriguing neighbor, Roar.
Unlike Leelo, Roar hasn't experienced much change in years; but Leelo is just the person he needs to shake things up. Fires, vandalism, and break ins keep the couple on their toes in this new summer romance from Barker.

Profile Image for Pam.
1,668 reviews16 followers
August 15, 2017
https://ripeforreader.blogspot.com/20...

Freya Barker writes from the very depth of her soul. She takes real life lessons and turns them into spectacular characters that touch your heart as they heal and move forward in life. The will and empowerment that her heroine's find within makes me believe, I have it too.

The past few years have been one of self rebuilding for Leelo. Learning to love and value herself after the years of doing what was expected of her. She still struggles with the effects the breakup of her marriage had on her relationship with her children. Against everyone's shows of concern she packs up to move to Wawa to bring her dead uncles Motel back to life. Does She have all the skills need to accomplish, NO. Is she willing to give it everything she has, YES.

Roar has spent his whole life living in Wawa and loving the land aside from his time away serving his country. He quickly learned not to judge others by appearance or impressions. He has found a happiness at his lodge and is not searching for companionship. Until he meets his new neighbor and all her fiestiness. Somehow she gets stuck in his head, and then he is doing what he can to help her.

Can the draw of the north country help heal slit relationship of a mother and her children? Will Leelo and Roar find the path to happiness? Will the interference of others keep them apart or push them closer together?

I am loving the setting and atmosphere of the Northern Lights series. Taking a little time with nature to heal the soul. can't wait for more Northern Lights and fabulous characters.

Advanced copy provided in exchange for an honest review.
Profile Image for DJ Sakata.
3,269 reviews1,777 followers
January 24, 2018
Favorite Quotes:

Reminded me a little of that old Brawny commercial, the lumberjack guy… He probably has abs to match, the kind you can bounce quarters off. Try and do that off mine and you’d need heavy equipment to excavate it.

Sometimes my stubborn drive for independence gets in the way of common sense.

You’re pretty smart for middle-aged, wannabe sideshow headliner.

My Review:

Freya Barker is my go-to source and rocks it like no other. She is better than the mailman as she consistently delivers superbly written and engaging tales that are each richly laced with a unique and indelible cast of worn, flawed, yet realistically drawn characters, who never fail to ensnare my cold heart. Every-single-time! I have cherished and coveted each and every one of her captivating series. A Change of View was an active, eventful, and insightful tale with mature characters, real-life family issues, and a tattered protagonist in dire need of a fresh start. Written from my favorite dual POV, the premise was solid, the storyline was relevant and well-crafted, and the writing was emotive, keenly observant and cleverly insightful. Yet the endearing and oddly matched characters were the heart and soul of the piece. While we begin with and witness Leelo’s steady growth and I applauded her evolving backbone while facing so many unusual challenges; Roar was a complete and unquestionable delight, I adored him in totality but most of all for his secret words which were nothing short of genius.
Profile Image for C.P. Smith.
Author 20 books1,620 followers
August 2, 2017
Freya Barker paints imagery that transports you inside the pages of her books. You relate to her characters immediately and want to crawl into bed with her leading men. A Change of View is no different. If you like well thought out stories with vivid characters you can relate to, then pick up this book or any other of Ms. Barker's heartwarming tales. You WON'T be disappointed.

P.S. Roar is mine
Profile Image for Shanda.
974 reviews40 followers
August 16, 2017
4.5 stars

I really enjoy a nice adult romance and Freya Barker definitely provides that. Leelo is a 46-year-old mother of two who has lost her way after her ex-husbands betrayal. She spent too many years playing the good wife while he tore her down. Leelo decides to move up north and take over her late Uncle’s old hotel. She is looking for a fresh start and she feels like she needs to give her kids some breathing room after she wasn’t her best around them after her divorce.

Leelo soon meets surly mountain man Roar when he finds her hanging off of her roof in a storm. Roar can’t believe she is risking her life for that roof. He grumbles at her and she stomps her feet but he can’t help but be interested in her. In true alpha male fashion he pushes his way in and starts helping her renovate. Leelo doesn’t take kindly to this for a while because she is trying to stand on her own. But as they work together and open up to each other romance blooms.

If you are looking for a nice slow burn romance with older characters you will love this. It is about real people finding love and learning to stand on their own. The book is rounded out with some colorful characters and a villain trying to sabotage Leelo’s fresh start in town. I am looking forward to what comes next in this series. Well Done!

* advance copy provided for a voluntary review*
Profile Image for Karen Hrdlicka.
1,288 reviews26 followers
July 23, 2017
I'm not even sure where to start with this review. I have read everything that Ms. Barker has written and have loved each and every story. Somehow this book hit closer to home for me, maybe it's the fact that both Roar and Leelo were only children and their fathers taught them the love of the outdoors. One of my favorite places on earth is the family cabin in northwest Ontario. Maybe it's the fact that like Leelo, in the past I've never felt I measured up to everyone's ideal of who I should be, or maybe it's the fact that I see the man I married personified in Roar, right down to the beard and devilish eyes. All I know is I think this is my favorite book so far.
Leelo is trying to rebuild not only her life, but also her view of herself, after spending her life trying to please her mother, her husband, and her children. After a family-shattering divorce, and an unexpected inheritance, she picks up herself up and moves north to refurbish her uncle's motel. However, someone seems to be sabotaging her new beginning, which she fights tooth and nail. In the process she meets the wonderful characters only Ms. Barker can create. Riordan Doyle (Roar), owner of Jackson's Point is Leelo's nearest neighbor and her savior in many ways. His mother, Charlotte is a take no prisoners octogenarian and when I get old I want to be her. What follows after the pair meets is a smoldering story of self-discovery, intrigue, and love.
Throughout the story Ms. Barker weaves her love of her native Ontario along with a beautiful love story. While Roar is a man of few words, his thoughts and emotions run much deeper than he shows. When he shares his thoughts with those he loves, the scenes are beautiful and heartfelt. If you love a book about a strong woman overcoming the odds and the reinventing herself and a man opening his heart to the possibilities of love and a different future, grab this book; you won't be sorry.
Profile Image for Alison.
3,633 reviews143 followers
July 25, 2018
Another great book in this series featuring more mature couples.

Lilith (Leelo) has just come out of a painful divorce which has alienated her grown up son and daughter. When she inherits an old inn from an uncle she decides to shake up her life and make a move to the country, she will use her money from the divorce to renovate the property and rent out the cabins. She's also made some physical changes to her appearance - blue hair and tattoos help her assert her independence from a domineering and demeaning ex-husband.

Riordan (Roar) owns a fishing lodge, he's Leelo's nearest neighbour and he can't believe when he sees this blue-haired tattooed townie clinging to the roof of the old inn in a storm. Furious at her stupidity he rushes in, berates her and gets a mouthful of abuse in return. Despite the antagonism Roar is enough of good neighbour/ all round nice guy that he actually turns up the next day to help Leelo fix her roof, then when other things go wrong he's always around to fix them.

This is somewhat different to the other books I have read by Freya Barker, the previous books have featured single/ divorced women in their 40s but always childless. I have to say, although I could read Freya Barker's novels all day every day, it was nice for her heroine to be a mother, especially of adult children.

If you've ever wanted to rebel one last time before it's too late, or at least before you decide to wear purple, if you've ever wondered if you were invisible after 40, if you've ever wanted to tell other people what you really think - then this is the heroine for you. I have the utmost admiration for Leelo's DIY skills as she rips up carpets and lugs lumber around. I loved Roar, this big gruff man with a heart of gold who loves his mum and his dog.

I am the world's least handy person and yet I soooo wanted to be Leelo.

Another brilliant novel by someone who is fast becoming one of my favourite authors.
Profile Image for Alaina.
7,182 reviews206 followers
August 18, 2020
I have received this ARC from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.

Without knowing that this was the second book of the Northern Lights Series, I honestly didn't feel confused while diving into this. It probably helps that the first book had a different couple in it. Or maybe I'm just weird and going with the flow today. Who knows.

A Change of View was a kind of cute book. I don't really care for the narrators because they just kind of made me want to take a nap instead of listening to the audiobook. Luckily for me, this book was on KU (Kindle Unlimited). Don't get me wrong, the characters in this book were kind of likable and cute. Yet, things just didn't make a lot of sense to me at a certain point of the book.

It was like something just switched on me and enemies randomly became friends. Not sure what happened overnight, or in between the pages I was reading, but I will go with it from now on. Other than that, the speed and flow of this book was just killing me. I was really bored during some moments in this book that I just wanted to skip to the end.

I will admit that none of that happened and I stuck through it but damn.. I really wish I could have a fast forward button sometimes.
Profile Image for Lisa Cullinan.
569 reviews28 followers
August 16, 2017
Just when I think I've read the best book that Freya Barker has ever written, she goes ahead and outdoes herself ... again!
We're back up in the Great White North (except it's summertime and scorching hot) in the lakeside town of Wawa. Leelo Talbot has come to see what shape her deceased uncle's motel is in after he left it to her. Her personal life recently has taken on some major hits in which a hostile divorce has taken its toll even on her two grown children. Making the decision to stay and fix up the place on Whitefish Lake while finding herself again seems like the right thing to do. That's until she realizes the enormity of what she's up against.

Riordan Doyle owns Jackson's Point, a fishing lodge up the road, where his life seems to be quietly satisfying and comfortable—and uncomplicated. Yeah, that's about to change. Slowly but surely, these two become entwined in each other's lives as Roar offers to help with some of the repairs around, well, everywhere.

Leelo and Roar are great together. She is completely lovable and so relatable to any middle-aged woman. I am positive that Roar is my favorite male character—like ever. There is nothing this man can do or say to make me think differently. He's one-hundred percent alpha. His bossiness is hot—out of concern for Leelo's well-being and not to feed his ego. He's intelligent, well-liked by the townsfolk, take-charge with whatever is thrown his way, loves his mother, Charlie, (she's a shining star in this story!) and quite honestly, brings out the best in those he cares for. I've got it bad for Roar! Did I mention that he knows his way around the bedroom ... and a boat ... and a couch?

Roar was also great with Matt, Leelo's twenty-year-old son, who decides to make Wawa his home as well. Matt is a Roar in the making, and I can definitely see his character having his own story! He's protective of his mother, hard-working, respectful, and just an amazing all-around guy. More importantly, he's a huge factor in keeping his mom safe ... because something isn't right—as if someone doesn't want her around. Random problems at the motel, which start out giving the impresssion of a prank, quickly change into something quite sinister and deliberate.

This is the part I love the most. Freya Barker creates the best supporting cast of characters I've ever read anywhere. Each one of them, whether their part is a paragraph or scattered throughout the entire book, add so much depth and authenticity to all of her stories. They become as real as the folks who live in any town, anywhere, and A Change of View is chock full of them. There are some interesting twists and turns, a couple of natural disasters, and plenty of humor added as well. But the clincher for me, like I mentioned above, was Riordan Doyle.

The vivid descriptions of the lake and all the breathtaking land that surrounds it, paints a clear picture in my mind's eye, and I can imagine myself there. The storyline flows like a lazy river from one glorious chapter to the next flawlessly because this is so well-written. I've said it before and I'll say it again and again, Freya Barker is one of the BEST storytellers out there. This book is one not to be missed; it's an absolute treasure. I'd give it ten North Stars if I could! I received this ARC for an honest review, and honest it certainly is.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Profile Image for Jezabell Girl.
1,075 reviews68 followers
August 3, 2017

Freya Baker’s stories are heartwarming and enchanting.

This was another solidly written story from Freya. The characters were endearing and *yes* my age for a change. There are so few stories written involving mature (urgh, is that what people in their 40's are these days) characters and this is what makes me love Freya’s writing. Her books are both believable and realistic and not in any way artificially enhanced.

Leelo probably portrays the type of person we all are inwardly but she is brave enough to show her true colours; in tattoos and hair dye! After years of living a dumbed down life, thanks to her ex-husband, Leelo now finds herself trying to do up a motel which was left to her in her Uncle’s will. With strength and determination, but not necessarily the skills in order to undertake all of the work, Leelo starts to wonder if she’s bitten off more than she can chew but when neighbour, Roar, sees her struggling, he soon becomes her saviour in a hard hat, and then some!

Despite facing a daunting task of renovating the property, Leelo finds herself embroiled in mystery and danger as her dream starts to fall apart courtesy of some unpleasant happenings. With Roar at her side though, Leelo is able to draw strength from him and despite facing more and more incidents, from her unknown assailant, and the weather, she knows that together they will be able to realise her dream.

Roar is a dream worthy character and not without his own fair share of demons. Whilst not looking for love, that’s exactly what falls into his lap when he first comes across Leelo when she’s stranded on her roof. Despite living a solitary life romantically, and never having had children with his ex-wife, Roar soon finds everything that he could ever have wished for in Leelo and her family.

This is a standalone contemporary/romantic suspense book in the Northern Lights series.

This ebook was kindly provided by the author prior to release date in return for an honest and unbiased review.

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Profile Image for Kerri Ann.
Author 45 books442 followers
July 24, 2017
With this being my first read from Freya, I had no idea what to expect both as a writing style or as a storyline. I wasn't sure if she'd be a hit you between the eyes writer that surprises you with an unexpected twist or, a gradual tada! I was surprised at how easy a read it was, how simple it was to find myself liking and enjoying the characters, and wanting more of them. I'm not a spoiler girl, but I have a soft spot for a tattooed older woman who won't take shit from no one. I was rooting for her. I wanted her to show the world that just because she's over twenty she can still be amazing, and super strong, resilient and awesome. My kind of girl. Thank you Freya for a great story.
78 reviews
July 19, 2017
Well Freya Barker consistently writes a solid, well written story that remains with you and is memorable. Imperfect people who have lived lives that have impacted and shaped them (not always for the positive) however during the story they learn and continue to grow. (Provided an ARC for an unbiased review) I'm still keeping my preorder as this book is worth the money spent.
Profile Image for Tina J.
1,325 reviews172 followers
August 8, 2017
✩ ✩ ✩ ✩ FOUR & 1/2 - STAR ✩ REVIEW ✩ ✩ ✩ ✩

> > Judging a Book by it's Cover < <
Outdoorsy, rugged, lumberjack-ish man with contemplative look since in the foreground of an equally rugged terrain. Synopsis sounded like a perfect fit for me ~ right down to the age and appearance!

> > Looking Deeper < <
POV ~> Alternating first-person, clearly marked and easy to follow.

Again, Ms Barker chooses more mature mid-40s characters to lead her story. Riordan, ROAR, Doyle is a rugged outdoorsman that runs a lodge up the road from Lilith's newly inherited run-down motel. Determined to make a new life for herself after an awful divorce that alienated her from her two grown children, she battles the years of neglect, mother nature's wrath, and malicious attempts to drive her away. The chemistry between the two is as comical as it is combustible. They were a joy to read. Matt and Charlotte were enjoyable secondary characters, as were Patti and Bill. A few other minor cast play a part in making the story dynamic and entertaining. One of the few things I did not care for was Leelo's constant crying jags. Good gawd, what an emotional MESS that woman could be. And, given we are the same age, I am not inclined to accept "menopause" as an excuse. Nope. There was only a small fraction of the whodunnit that was predictable for me, but the larger picture took me by some surprise - Yay! There were plenty of conflicts that seemed to be handled fairly well. The conclusion is solid enough, implying an HEA was in store for the couple, but it was not cemented.
Overall, another fantastic book in the series and CAN totally be read as a stand-alone.
.
Rating: [R] ~ Score: 4.375 ~ Stars: 4.5, if I could.
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⭐ ⭐ **** Disclosure of Material: I received a copy of this book from Enticing Journey Book Promotions and the Author/Publisher with the hope that I would voluntarily leave unbiased and unsolicited feedback. I was not asked, encouraged, or required to leave a review - nor was I compensated in any way. I am posting this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission's 16 CFR, Part 255: "Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising". ***** ⭐ ⭐
Profile Image for Jacquie.
587 reviews3 followers
August 15, 2017
This book, A Change of View, is the second in the Northern Lights series by Freya Barker and it's one that will stay with me for a VERY long time to come! Freya's writing is superb, her character development is spot on, the way she writes makes everything come to life...like you are right there, watching everything unfold in front of you, like you are an active participant in this remarkable story of self-discovery, of letting the baggage from your past go and living your life for YOU...and of finding the love of your life when and where you least expect it!

Leelo is one of my all-time favorite characters...she's feisty, sassy, takes no prisoners when it comes to telling ANYONE like it is (some might think she's a bit of a b***h, but I think she's perfect, considering what she's had to endure almost her whole adult life!) yet, at the same time (BECAUSE of what she's had to endure) she's also sooooo insecure and unsure of herself, but bravely faces everything that comes her way! Mind you, she has the support of one very HOT, VERY Alpha, very intense neighbor, Riordan (Roar)....the likes of which she has never seen! I found my emotions were twisted into knots at times, at others, I wanted to bash some heads together ! There were also some hilarious laugh-out-loud moments and times where my heart just swooned with the love pouring from the pages!

The secondary characters were also superbly hashed out! I LOVED Roar's mother Charlie and Leelo's son Matt (who turns out to be a LOT like Roar...that protective, knee-buckling Alpha who looks after what is HIS! Whether that be his Mom, his lover or his friend!) I had issues with Leelo's daughter, Gwen, at first, but even SHE grew on me and turned out to be not-so-bad!

Throw in some drama with some really scary incidents that had me sitting on the edge of my seat while reading and you have another MUST READ from an author who has hit my TOP 10 Authors List! Thank you, Freya!
Profile Image for Tracy.
1,017 reviews
August 15, 2017
Feck but Ms Freya can write!

I adore her books, the imagery she presents makes you feel like you're in the middle of the story, watching everything unfold in front of you.
The storylines are action packed, with just the right amount of suspense, drama and angst while also packed with so much raw emotion, affection, humour, attraction and heat (dear gods the heat - and I'm not just talking about the temperature in Wawa!!!)
Slightly older characters with baggage, issues, vulnerabilities, flaws et al that come across as real, believable and so very relatable!!

I nigh on inhaled A Change of View, putting my kindle down only when it was absolutely necessary - but that's pretty much what Freya Barkers books do to me... I'm an addict when it comes to her work!

FLOVED Lilith (Leelo) and Roar!!!!

5 well deserved stars. ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Profile Image for Christine.
457 reviews29 followers
August 19, 2017
A Change of View by Freya Barker is a realistic mature romance with a hint of mystery. This is the second book in Freya's Northern Lights series and the only connection to the first book is that it's set in Northern Ontario ~ can be read as a standalone.

Roar, the owner of a local resort, can't help but be drawn to the new owner trying to restore motel down the highway even if it's only to save her from being hit by lightning. Scared both physically and mentally from serving in the military, Roar is happy with his non-complicated lifestyle and Leelo throws an unexpected wrench into that. Leelo takes a chance on restoring her families motel in hopes of restoring herself and her soul. Events keep arising that puts into question Leelo's choice in moving to remote Northern Ontario but love seems to be soothing her soul.

Freya has blown me away again. A Change of View was a breath of fresh air all rolled in a beautifully told romance between older characters who've lived lives and still have a lot to live. I identified with Leelo's character through out this tale. She's sensitive, independent and stubborn almost to a fault. Roar is a tall drink of water who can rescue me any day ~ no fight on my end. Strong, giving and protective of those around him, Roar is the complete package. I adored the setting of this story. Northern Ontario is such a beautiful backdrop and through Freya's words she's paints a stunning picture of our province. 5 "Star Filled Nights" Stars for A Change of View by Freya Barker

*** Reviewed for Sweet & Spicy Reads - ARC provided for an honest review ***
Profile Image for Amy.
1,071 reviews16 followers
August 14, 2017
Freya Barker writes older characters so well, and I really enjoy that. I think with these older characters, you get more out of them and their experiences, as is the case with Lilith (Leelo) and Riordan (Roar).

Leelo has moved to Wawa after inheriting her uncle's motel/bar. She's looking to start fresh after a divorce, and quite honestly falling apart just a bit. She meets Roar pretty quickly, and he doesn't leave a very good impression. Leelo decides that she's going to do all this on her own, but due to some odd occurrences at the motel, she begins connecting with Roar and their friendship, and eventual relationship grows. They're both head strong and stubborn, and watching them try to figure out how to balance each other was fun. There was some drama, albeit mild and dealt with fairly quickly.

Overall, I really enjoyed this series, and if Ms. Barker continues it, I'll definitely pick it up.

Copy provided to The Dirty Book Girls for an honest and voluntary review.
Profile Image for Carol (StarAngel's Reviews) Allen.
1,690 reviews633 followers
June 14, 2020
4 Whiteside Stars

This is a cute story of Leelo and Roar mixed with some mystery and thrills. I loved how these two found romance, trust, confidence in each other and theirselves. Even with all of the negativity that surrounded Leelo, Roar was her rock and shield.
Profile Image for Pamela.
88 reviews21 followers
July 23, 2017
A change in view....one thing I have to start with is, how much I adore reading about women and men around my age.
Freya has a knack at writing amazing novels with older characters, who are both strong willed, yet have been through some crap in their life, this novel is yet another of those second chance love stories!
Leelo & Roar are perfect together, but of course trouble seems to follow Leelo around, while these two try to figure out the chemistry between them,
I loved this novel & cant wait for more!!!'
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Profile Image for Nancy Huddleston.
354 reviews17 followers
July 10, 2017
Did you ever start a book and have an instant connection to the main charater? I did with A Change of View( a Northern Lights, Novel) by Freya Barker. Freya Barker is simply brilliant in her unique writing style. She brings the characters to life. This story is full of real emotions and I felt every one while reading about Leelo and Roar.

Leelo is now my favorite. I felt her insecurities and her strength to find out who she is. "I know I had to find a new way to define me. Learn to chose me, how to take care of me. It's not been easy." These words spoke to my heart. We can all learn from Leelo. Her strength and courage are an inspiration. It gives me hope. She is also funny and I love her first encounter with Roar.
Roar is a freaking awesome character. He is all male, yet his heart is so big. You can feel his warmth has you read about him. A man of few words, but the ones he speaks are powerful. I adore Roar and Leelo's attraction. They make me laugh and cry.
One of the best from Freya Barker.
Profile Image for Kelly.
1,328 reviews528 followers
August 26, 2020
When I saw A change of view available as an audiobook on Netgalley, I jumped on the opportunity to listen to it. I liked the first book A change in tide so I thought this was going to be a quick & cute romance story. And while this was good enough, sadly, I think I enjoyed the first book more. I feel like I didn't connect to these characters who were older than in the first book.

In this book, we follow an emotional and stubborn woman who has the tendency to want to do everything on her own even when she doesn't really have the skills yet. It was kind of funny to see the alpha male hero being annoyed at her for getting herself in danger at times because of it. The audiobook didn't keep my attention entirely this time and the female narrator's voice wasn't my favorite but we can't win every time, right?

(Thank you for letting me listen and review an ARC via Netgalley)
Profile Image for Brandy Roberts.
2,082 reviews63 followers
August 15, 2017
I adore Freya Barkers writing she has a why to draw you in and have you hooked till the very end I admit I skipped lunch and dinner to finish A change of view well worth it , this also has to be my favorite by the author you really must one click right away . Most would say at first glance that Leelo and Roar make no since at all but looks can be deceiving and teaches you never to judge a book by their cover , the way they banter had me laughing with a silly grin on my face and fanning my self with how hot it could get at times . Loved Leelo all she has to over come and struggle through really got to me , she's strong ,determined , funny , and sassy . Roar is so alpha swoon worthy just WOW he comes off as a angry mountain of a man but when you get threw to him he's caring , funny , HOT , ok he is very alpha controlling but in a thoughtful way . The sex scenes are very tastefully done lets just saw the hero does wonders with his hammer . Everything about the secondary characters is very lovable I hope to see more from them in the future because they are just that awesome . I went through so many emotions laugh a lot , blushed , swooned , fell in love with the place described , and got some shocks Can't wait to see whats to come for this talented author .
copy provided for honest review 
****************************************
hero = 10 heroine = 10 secondary characters = 10
Chemistry = 10 steam = 9 romance = 10 humor = 7
darkness level = 4 enjoyment = 10 angst = 3
action = 4 story line = 10 mystery = 5
character development = 10 pacing = 10 Plot = 10
cover = 10 stars = 5 author = 10
would I recommend this book = yes
would I re read this book = yes
would I read future books by this author = yes
Profile Image for Emily.
5,810 reviews543 followers
August 3, 2023
A failed marriage and a rift between her kids that she helped cause has Leelo embracing the motel she inherited from her Uncle Sam. Leelo is determined to start a new life and accept the rundown motel that she plans to fix up. Half the time Leelo is unsure what she is doing but when business owner and neighbor finds her in a thunderstorm on the roof Roar steps in.

Roar is known in town for his brash no nonsense tone and at first he thinks the blue haired tattooed goddess is nuts. Getting to know her he still thinks she is nuts but he wants more. Roar is not a man to get attached to women but he wants more with Leelo. She is a strong woman who stands up for herself and has him wanting to pull her in for a kiss every time he sees her. Things are not smooth sailing though when someone seems intent on sabotaging the motel, her son comes for a visit and her daughter is questioning everything. Roar though stands by Leelo's side making it clear he has back in everything she does.

I really enjoyed this one. I think the fact that Leelo had to restart and felt completely lost when her ex left was a hard pill to swallow. I liked that she got up after being knocked down and was a force in accepting who she was now. A feel good read that was difficult to put down. Want to go back and read the rest of the series now.
Profile Image for Darcy.
14.1k reviews531 followers
November 25, 2020
Boy this one, you could just feel what Leelo was going through, life had knocked her around pretty hard and she was hanging on by her finger nails. The move to the motel came at a good time and gave Leelo the change to make a conscious decision to change her life and by god she was going to do just that come hell or high water.

The motel was a hot mess, but Leelo didn't let that get her down. She started what she could and went from there. If she didn't know she figured out a way and quite frankly was over her head and too stubborn to ask for help. It was good that Roar came by and helped the day she was on the roof about ready to loose it all. The relationship between these 2 at the start was fun, because neither of them really liked the other and Leelo didn't want the jerks help. I loved watching it change, watching Leelo get stronger even as the hard knocks still kept coming, but what made it easier was that Roar and others were there to have her back. Heck Roar even helped her build better relationships with her kids.

By the end of the book you couldn't help but love how both Leelo and Roar changed and their plans for the businesses and all the people they had in their lives to support them.
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