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Chosen Paths #2
Under the Influence
USA Today Bestselling Novel.
"I have always belonged to you. I will always belong to you. Regardless of what you've done, what you do, or what you will do, I will forever be yours. And that's my choice to make, whether you choose me or not."
By the age of thirteen, Dalton Greer had already experienced abuse unfathomable to most. So by the time he was finally rescued from the latest of his long string of foster homes, he was already traveling down a very dangerous path. Indebted to a known drug lord as a means of protection, he chose the life of the streets thinking that's all his life had to offer...until he met her.
Five years later, she's the only bright spot in his very bleak existence. There isn't anything he won't do to shield her from the evil he's experienced and he wants nothing more than to protect her from the life he's chosen, as well as from himself.
The day Spencer Locke found Dalton sitting on her porch, she felt his pain and understood his rage. They were bonded by both, though he would never know understand why. He had been lost while she was found, and in that moment, she vowed to help him find his way too.
As the years pass by, that initial bond forms into something deeper. Spencer loves Dalton regardless of his past, in spite of his choices. And when all secrets are unleashed between the two, that love becomes binding.
One night is all they have before fate makes its own decision. Dalton is forced to choose the path he will travel, and Spencer is left unknowing as to why.
A journey about the discovery of true friendship as it blossoms into first love, the experience of crucial sacrifice and ultimate betrayal, and endurance of agonizing heartbreak on the way to finding lasting redemption, two lost souls find solace...
Under the Influence of love.
*******NA Contemporary Romance that can be read as a STANDALONE******
*****Due to themes of child abuse, domestic violence, sexual situations and explicit language, recommended for readers 17+*****
"I have always belonged to you. I will always belong to you. Regardless of what you've done, what you do, or what you will do, I will forever be yours. And that's my choice to make, whether you choose me or not."
By the age of thirteen, Dalton Greer had already experienced abuse unfathomable to most. So by the time he was finally rescued from the latest of his long string of foster homes, he was already traveling down a very dangerous path. Indebted to a known drug lord as a means of protection, he chose the life of the streets thinking that's all his life had to offer...until he met her.
Five years later, she's the only bright spot in his very bleak existence. There isn't anything he won't do to shield her from the evil he's experienced and he wants nothing more than to protect her from the life he's chosen, as well as from himself.
The day Spencer Locke found Dalton sitting on her porch, she felt his pain and understood his rage. They were bonded by both, though he would never know understand why. He had been lost while she was found, and in that moment, she vowed to help him find his way too.
As the years pass by, that initial bond forms into something deeper. Spencer loves Dalton regardless of his past, in spite of his choices. And when all secrets are unleashed between the two, that love becomes binding.
One night is all they have before fate makes its own decision. Dalton is forced to choose the path he will travel, and Spencer is left unknowing as to why.
A journey about the discovery of true friendship as it blossoms into first love, the experience of crucial sacrifice and ultimate betrayal, and endurance of agonizing heartbreak on the way to finding lasting redemption, two lost souls find solace...
Under the Influence of love.
*******NA Contemporary Romance that can be read as a STANDALONE******
*****Due to themes of child abuse, domestic violence, sexual situations and explicit language, recommended for readers 17+*****
354 pages, Paperback
First published May 10, 2015
About the author
L.B. Simmons
9 books1,492 followersAfter graduating from Texas A&M University, L.B. Simmons did what any biomedical science major could do. She entered the workforce as a full-time chemist. Years later, never in her wildest dreams would she have imagined herself a USA Today Bestselling contemporary romance author as well.
What began as a memoir for her children, ended up being her first self-published book, Running on Empty. Initially it was written to chronicle their actions, their phrases, and their silly arguments so that when they were older, they would always have those memories. The memoir soon began to take on a life of its own, morphing into the story of a single mother with three little girls finding love when she least expected it. Soon after, her girls were given reoccurring roles in the remainder of what became the Mending Hearts series.
That's how her journey as an author began, and she hopes to God it never ends.
L.B. Simmons doesn’t just write books. With each new work, she attempts to compose journeys of love and self-discovery so she may impart life lessons to readers. Several novels later, she’s tackled suicide, depression, bullying, eating disorders, as well as physical and sexual abuse, all the while weaving elements of humor into the storylines in effort to balance the difficult topics. Often described as roller coaster rides, her novels are known for eliciting a wide range of emotions in each story she tells.
What began as a memoir for her children, ended up being her first self-published book, Running on Empty. Initially it was written to chronicle their actions, their phrases, and their silly arguments so that when they were older, they would always have those memories. The memoir soon began to take on a life of its own, morphing into the story of a single mother with three little girls finding love when she least expected it. Soon after, her girls were given reoccurring roles in the remainder of what became the Mending Hearts series.
That's how her journey as an author began, and she hopes to God it never ends.
L.B. Simmons doesn’t just write books. With each new work, she attempts to compose journeys of love and self-discovery so she may impart life lessons to readers. Several novels later, she’s tackled suicide, depression, bullying, eating disorders, as well as physical and sexual abuse, all the while weaving elements of humor into the storylines in effort to balance the difficult topics. Often described as roller coaster rides, her novels are known for eliciting a wide range of emotions in each story she tells.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 383 reviews
May 8, 2015
3 stars!
I’m a big fan of LB Simmons and I think she has a penchant for writing deeply emotional NA love stories. While I liked the inspirational second chance theme behind this book and in general, liked this book overall, I do have to say I am somewhat disappointed by it too. All the ingredients for an epic read were there, but key aspects of the story I think were either underdeveloped or completely left out which explains why I didn’t feel any kind of emotion towards the hero or heroine. It’s a story that I easily fell into and liked, but not a story that yanked at my heartstrings and made me feel like her other books did.
The blurb (well, letter-blurb) doesn’t reveal much and after a couple of chapters into the book I could see why. The hero Dalton’s, umm, occupation is something that I think felt out of place considering how new adult this book was, and that contrast made the heroine Spencer look like an idiot to be honest. What I also struggled with was how this story was presented to the reader. I’m the kind of reader who likes it when the author eases me into the story. The way this book began made me feel like I was thrown into the middle of a turf war and I had to figure out who this and that character was because they were never mentioned before but written like I was supposed to know who they were.
After the first quarter of the book, things started to pick up for me and I got used to Dalton’s weird ‘job’ along with Spencer’s constant giggling. I love friends to lovers romances and while I didn’t like that the author left out important childhood history details between the two to emphasize that friends aspect, I did love seeing Dalton and Spencer’s push-pull dynamic where they finally admit their feelings for each other.
Now here’s the part that flat-out annoyed me and turned me from feeling a little something for the couple into an emotionless reader. This book is split into 3 parts, and from the letter blurb it’s implied heartbreak, betrayal, and maybe second chances will occur somewhere. To avoid plot spoilers, I’m going to say I hated the heartbreak incident, and hated even more the way the ‘second chances’ part came in. Once those multiple time gaps in a row started showing up my heart just shut down: they were weak transitions from the solid part 1 to the chaotic and rushed part 3 and didn’t even make me feel like much time passed at all. The thing that irritates me the most is that the note at the end of the blurb says this book spans 5 pivotal years in Dalton and Spencer’s lives but almost all of that is covered by time gaps, so there was no REAL development going on here.
Like I mentioned before, part 3 (and the final part that concludes the story) was chaotic and rushed. When I got to this part I looked at the percentage point on my Kindle Cloudreader and from what was left it’s simply not enough book space to make that second chance part feel natural and not forced. The ending ties in with Dalton’s job and I have to say that part of his character had big potential to turn this book from an okay read to an outstanding one. Sadly though, this was the same aspect that was rushed in the 3rd part of the book to get to the ending. It’s so disappointing because this book has a terrific plot structure and I definitely saw the potential for it to become a phenomenal read, but it was missing the meat – details were skimmed over in favor of tackling bigger plot points that each had little development.
I wrote my review to sound more negative than positive because I really do have a bunch of complaints with this story, but the two things I liked – the writing and the message behind the story – were strong positives that made me like the story enough to round to 3 stars, even if I didn’t love it like I thought I would.
ARC provided by the author in exchange for an honest review.
I’m a big fan of LB Simmons and I think she has a penchant for writing deeply emotional NA love stories. While I liked the inspirational second chance theme behind this book and in general, liked this book overall, I do have to say I am somewhat disappointed by it too. All the ingredients for an epic read were there, but key aspects of the story I think were either underdeveloped or completely left out which explains why I didn’t feel any kind of emotion towards the hero or heroine. It’s a story that I easily fell into and liked, but not a story that yanked at my heartstrings and made me feel like her other books did.
The blurb (well, letter-blurb) doesn’t reveal much and after a couple of chapters into the book I could see why. The hero Dalton’s, umm, occupation is something that I think felt out of place considering how new adult this book was, and that contrast made the heroine Spencer look like an idiot to be honest. What I also struggled with was how this story was presented to the reader. I’m the kind of reader who likes it when the author eases me into the story. The way this book began made me feel like I was thrown into the middle of a turf war and I had to figure out who this and that character was because they were never mentioned before but written like I was supposed to know who they were.
After the first quarter of the book, things started to pick up for me and I got used to Dalton’s weird ‘job’ along with Spencer’s constant giggling. I love friends to lovers romances and while I didn’t like that the author left out important childhood history details between the two to emphasize that friends aspect, I did love seeing Dalton and Spencer’s push-pull dynamic where they finally admit their feelings for each other.
Now here’s the part that flat-out annoyed me and turned me from feeling a little something for the couple into an emotionless reader. This book is split into 3 parts, and from the letter blurb it’s implied heartbreak, betrayal, and maybe second chances will occur somewhere. To avoid plot spoilers, I’m going to say I hated the heartbreak incident, and hated even more the way the ‘second chances’ part came in. Once those multiple time gaps in a row started showing up my heart just shut down: they were weak transitions from the solid part 1 to the chaotic and rushed part 3 and didn’t even make me feel like much time passed at all. The thing that irritates me the most is that the note at the end of the blurb says this book spans 5 pivotal years in Dalton and Spencer’s lives but almost all of that is covered by time gaps, so there was no REAL development going on here.
Like I mentioned before, part 3 (and the final part that concludes the story) was chaotic and rushed. When I got to this part I looked at the percentage point on my Kindle Cloudreader and from what was left it’s simply not enough book space to make that second chance part feel natural and not forced. The ending ties in with Dalton’s job and I have to say that part of his character had big potential to turn this book from an okay read to an outstanding one. Sadly though, this was the same aspect that was rushed in the 3rd part of the book to get to the ending. It’s so disappointing because this book has a terrific plot structure and I definitely saw the potential for it to become a phenomenal read, but it was missing the meat – details were skimmed over in favor of tackling bigger plot points that each had little development.
I wrote my review to sound more negative than positive because I really do have a bunch of complaints with this story, but the two things I liked – the writing and the message behind the story – were strong positives that made me like the story enough to round to 3 stars, even if I didn’t love it like I thought I would.
ARC provided by the author in exchange for an honest review.
November 12, 2017
"Because the truth is, there's nothing more frightening in my world than those who know you -who really know you. The ones who know your deepest, darkest secrets. The ones who know what your're going to do before you do it. The ones who know not only what buttons to push when they seek your attention but also the cones that can be used to completely incapacitate you."
I really enjoyed this book. It has the troubled angst riddled bad guy who really wants to be good but got led down the wrong path and the innocent yet strong young woman who loves him unconditionally story-line going on.
Dalton Greer has been raised in the foster care system. He has been subjected to years of abuse and neglect. He accepts kindness from a stranger who turns out to be a dangerous crime boss, and accepts his protection in return for a life of crime. It seemed like a good idea at the time (he was around 12 or 13 years old) as he was being badly beaten on a daily basis and just wanted the pain to stop.
Then he meets Spencer Locke and he suddenly no longer feels alone. He has someone who is kind and accepting and he vows to always protect her. Spencer looks at Dalton and sees his pain. She knows he has demons which he cannot hide form her no matter how hard her tries. She loves him and sees through his tough guy exterior.
After having feelings for each other they decide to take their relationship into the romantic area but after one night of violence, Dalton has to make a choice which affects them both.
This book has young love, sex, child abuse and domestic violence which may be triggers for some. This book has the feel of being a YA novel but it really isn't. It is for a more mature crowd. The description says 17 and above and that sounds about right.
I enjoyed the storytelling and the character development. This is a book where I wanted to shake, or at least give a stern talking to, both Dalton and Spencer as they both acted impulsively. When I didn't want to shake them I was in their corner rooting for them! Theirs is a kind of coming of age tale as the grow and try to take charge of their lives as they become young adults. This book sucked me in and didn't let go until the last page. I was actually pretty amazed at how much I enjoyed this book. I will definitely be reading more from this Author!
I am a sucker for a bad boy meets nice girl type story. Cliched but true. I also liked that Dalton is portrayed as smart and loving. He keeps as rough exterior as he needed to in order to survive and protect himself (and others). This was a well written fast read. The story deals with many tough subjects which I mentioned, but it also touches on love, friendship, acceptance, second chances, hope and redemption.
Thank you to Spencer Hill Press and NetGalley for providing me a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
See more of my reviews at www.openbookpost.com
I really enjoyed this book. It has the troubled angst riddled bad guy who really wants to be good but got led down the wrong path and the innocent yet strong young woman who loves him unconditionally story-line going on.
Dalton Greer has been raised in the foster care system. He has been subjected to years of abuse and neglect. He accepts kindness from a stranger who turns out to be a dangerous crime boss, and accepts his protection in return for a life of crime. It seemed like a good idea at the time (he was around 12 or 13 years old) as he was being badly beaten on a daily basis and just wanted the pain to stop.
Then he meets Spencer Locke and he suddenly no longer feels alone. He has someone who is kind and accepting and he vows to always protect her. Spencer looks at Dalton and sees his pain. She knows he has demons which he cannot hide form her no matter how hard her tries. She loves him and sees through his tough guy exterior.
After having feelings for each other they decide to take their relationship into the romantic area but after one night of violence, Dalton has to make a choice which affects them both.
This book has young love, sex, child abuse and domestic violence which may be triggers for some. This book has the feel of being a YA novel but it really isn't. It is for a more mature crowd. The description says 17 and above and that sounds about right.
I enjoyed the storytelling and the character development. This is a book where I wanted to shake, or at least give a stern talking to, both Dalton and Spencer as they both acted impulsively. When I didn't want to shake them I was in their corner rooting for them! Theirs is a kind of coming of age tale as the grow and try to take charge of their lives as they become young adults. This book sucked me in and didn't let go until the last page. I was actually pretty amazed at how much I enjoyed this book. I will definitely be reading more from this Author!
I am a sucker for a bad boy meets nice girl type story. Cliched but true. I also liked that Dalton is portrayed as smart and loving. He keeps as rough exterior as he needed to in order to survive and protect himself (and others). This was a well written fast read. The story deals with many tough subjects which I mentioned, but it also touches on love, friendship, acceptance, second chances, hope and redemption.
Thank you to Spencer Hill Press and NetGalley for providing me a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
See more of my reviews at www.openbookpost.com
May 19, 2015
ARC provided by author in exchange for an honest review
"Do you think I don't know how it feels to be abandoned, to be betrayed by those who are suppose to love you? To care for you? To continually wonder what you did to deserve the life you were born into as you remain locked in your past by ever present question- why me?"
There are not enough words to describe how much I loved Under the Influence by L.B.Simmons. From the opening pages to the very end, this book captured my undivided attention on it's heartbreaking, riveting tale of loss, separation and heartache. This book was so emotionally raw that every heartfelt emotions from sadness, love, anger, loss, and regret was literally pouring off each page. Words will be just words until you bring them to LIFE. And that's what Ms. Simmons did with Under the Influence. She didn't just deliver an ordinary tale of first love but she poured her heart and soul into this book and as a reader she captured the very essence of love, loss, sadness, hurt and heart with the story of Dalton and Spencer.
"Her eyes are full of determination and with absolute ferocity, her belief in me douses the constant inferno which burns within my chest as the pieces begin to combine. Anger no longer suffocates me. Fear no longer stifles me. Pain no longer asphyxiates me."
In life, we all make choices. Some good. Some bad. Some regretful. But these choices are our own regardless if we want to change them. They happen for a reason. They make us into the individuals who we are today. These choices can defines us or they can be a lesson to be learned. So when a wrong choice is made, can the monster and darkness that consumes within us be freed? Freed from the anger? Disappointment? Heartache? Can love truly heal and shine light in our darkest hour? Is love enough to save us?
"Do you still think you can help me? Save me from a life in which there is absolutely no way out, other than death?"
Under the Influence is not an ordinary tale of finding love. It is a story where love transcends and douses us with pure passion and fuel to keep hope alive. Hope that love will save us and mend the broken pieces in our shattered hearts.
"I put all that I am into this kiss, wordlessly expressing my everlasting gratitude as she heals me. Once it's mended and whole, I willingly give her the only gift I have to offer in return. My heart."
Dalton and Spencer are two best friends who found love, comfort, and happiness within each other. Both have a story to tell filled with heartache, love, and hurt. But Dalton is the one who has a story that will emotionally grip and gut our hearts. As a child, he grew up feeling unloved and abused by the people who should of loved him. His parents didn't show him the love and affection a child needs and should be provided for but instead showed him pain, darkness, and hurt. So when Dalton meets Spencer, he finally found the person to give him solace, peace, and light. She was his saving grace from the darkness and brokenness. She was the missing piece to mend the fractured pieces of his heart. Her love alone was his saving grace.
"My heart fills with pure elation as my mind resolutely affirms those words and for the first time in as long as I can remember, I'm glad to be alive. Because in her, I find purpose. I want to be for her. I want to exist just so I can experience her. I want to live, to feel, to laugh, and to love with her."
But when Dalton gets mixed up with the wrong group of bad people, he finds out that hard way that once you let darkness in, it will consume and tear you apart. So when a death rocks his world, Dalton's life is shattered. Anger consumes him. Hurt and pain eats him alive. Regret haunts him. Filled with vengeance and anger, he makes a choice that will alter his life and path with Spencer. A choice that will drown you with raw emotions. It is often said that when you truly love someone, you have to let them go and if they come back to you, it is meant to be. So will Spencer be willing to forgive Dalton after several years passed by? Or are the pieces of her broken heart too shattered to be pieced back together? Is their love enough to save them once again?
"I want to inhale him. To taste him on my tongue. To feel him course through my bloodstream. To consume every bit of his essence. Only then do i think my craving for him would be satisfied."
I just have to say this once more...I loved this book. This book was a gem of a read. I was literally consumed and under the influence with Ms. Simmons' writing and story-telling. The writing in this book is simply breathtakingly raw and beautiful. Ms. Simmons is truly a gifted writer whose literary prose and words captured our hearts. She bathed us not only in a love story but a story of hope, second chance, and meant to be love. So if you are looking for a book that will make you FEEL then I highly recommend you to read this book.
"I will always belong to you. Regardless of what you've done, what you do, or what you will do, I will forever be yours....."
Review can also be found on Four Chicks Flipping Pages L.B. Simmons
"Do you think I don't know how it feels to be abandoned, to be betrayed by those who are suppose to love you? To care for you? To continually wonder what you did to deserve the life you were born into as you remain locked in your past by ever present question- why me?"
There are not enough words to describe how much I loved Under the Influence by L.B.Simmons. From the opening pages to the very end, this book captured my undivided attention on it's heartbreaking, riveting tale of loss, separation and heartache. This book was so emotionally raw that every heartfelt emotions from sadness, love, anger, loss, and regret was literally pouring off each page. Words will be just words until you bring them to LIFE. And that's what Ms. Simmons did with Under the Influence. She didn't just deliver an ordinary tale of first love but she poured her heart and soul into this book and as a reader she captured the very essence of love, loss, sadness, hurt and heart with the story of Dalton and Spencer.
"Her eyes are full of determination and with absolute ferocity, her belief in me douses the constant inferno which burns within my chest as the pieces begin to combine. Anger no longer suffocates me. Fear no longer stifles me. Pain no longer asphyxiates me."
In life, we all make choices. Some good. Some bad. Some regretful. But these choices are our own regardless if we want to change them. They happen for a reason. They make us into the individuals who we are today. These choices can defines us or they can be a lesson to be learned. So when a wrong choice is made, can the monster and darkness that consumes within us be freed? Freed from the anger? Disappointment? Heartache? Can love truly heal and shine light in our darkest hour? Is love enough to save us?
"Do you still think you can help me? Save me from a life in which there is absolutely no way out, other than death?"
Under the Influence is not an ordinary tale of finding love. It is a story where love transcends and douses us with pure passion and fuel to keep hope alive. Hope that love will save us and mend the broken pieces in our shattered hearts.
"I put all that I am into this kiss, wordlessly expressing my everlasting gratitude as she heals me. Once it's mended and whole, I willingly give her the only gift I have to offer in return. My heart."
Dalton and Spencer are two best friends who found love, comfort, and happiness within each other. Both have a story to tell filled with heartache, love, and hurt. But Dalton is the one who has a story that will emotionally grip and gut our hearts. As a child, he grew up feeling unloved and abused by the people who should of loved him. His parents didn't show him the love and affection a child needs and should be provided for but instead showed him pain, darkness, and hurt. So when Dalton meets Spencer, he finally found the person to give him solace, peace, and light. She was his saving grace from the darkness and brokenness. She was the missing piece to mend the fractured pieces of his heart. Her love alone was his saving grace.
"My heart fills with pure elation as my mind resolutely affirms those words and for the first time in as long as I can remember, I'm glad to be alive. Because in her, I find purpose. I want to be for her. I want to exist just so I can experience her. I want to live, to feel, to laugh, and to love with her."
But when Dalton gets mixed up with the wrong group of bad people, he finds out that hard way that once you let darkness in, it will consume and tear you apart. So when a death rocks his world, Dalton's life is shattered. Anger consumes him. Hurt and pain eats him alive. Regret haunts him. Filled with vengeance and anger, he makes a choice that will alter his life and path with Spencer. A choice that will drown you with raw emotions. It is often said that when you truly love someone, you have to let them go and if they come back to you, it is meant to be. So will Spencer be willing to forgive Dalton after several years passed by? Or are the pieces of her broken heart too shattered to be pieced back together? Is their love enough to save them once again?
"I want to inhale him. To taste him on my tongue. To feel him course through my bloodstream. To consume every bit of his essence. Only then do i think my craving for him would be satisfied."
I just have to say this once more...I loved this book. This book was a gem of a read. I was literally consumed and under the influence with Ms. Simmons' writing and story-telling. The writing in this book is simply breathtakingly raw and beautiful. Ms. Simmons is truly a gifted writer whose literary prose and words captured our hearts. She bathed us not only in a love story but a story of hope, second chance, and meant to be love. So if you are looking for a book that will make you FEEL then I highly recommend you to read this book.
"I will always belong to you. Regardless of what you've done, what you do, or what you will do, I will forever be yours....."
Review can also be found on Four Chicks Flipping Pages L.B. Simmons
Shelved as 'did-not-finish'
May 18, 2015DNF @ 20%
I really wanted to like this book seeing how I loved this author's writing from her The Resurrection of Aubrey Miller, so naturally I was dying to read her new book. Unfortunately, this just didn't work for me because for the first 10% of the book, I already felt like I was drowning in a sea of details. It almost felt like I was missing an entire prequel of the story because I just couldn't get into the plot or connect to the characters at all. Perhaps it was meant to be vague to serve a better purpose of the entire story (although I do have a hunch on what Dalton's job is) but as a reader, I was left feeling disinterested instead of wanting to read on.
Probably I'm not in the right mood to read this one, so don't let my review deter you from trying it out :)
I really wanted to like this book seeing how I loved this author's writing from her The Resurrection of Aubrey Miller, so naturally I was dying to read her new book. Unfortunately, this just didn't work for me because for the first 10% of the book, I already felt like I was drowning in a sea of details. It almost felt like I was missing an entire prequel of the story because I just couldn't get into the plot or connect to the characters at all. Perhaps it was meant to be vague to serve a better purpose of the entire story (although I do have a hunch on what Dalton's job is) but as a reader, I was left feeling disinterested instead of wanting to read on.
Probably I'm not in the right mood to read this one, so don't let my review deter you from trying it out :)
May 11, 2015
5 Sunset Stars
“Spencer Locke is my air. I just hope the immorality I’m forced to carry deep within my soul doesn’t one day pollute her very essence.” ~Dalton
What a journey Under the Influence is. We have Dalton Greer, a damaged, broken and resentful young man. He is mad at the world and the world has not been good to him at all. And one day he meets Spencer Locke and his life changes, his inside changes. He begins to feel, to see, to want.
“ I want to be for her. I want to exist just so I can experience her. I want to live, to feel, to laugh, and to love with her.” ~Dalton
I was transported to this world of pain, heartache, and sunsets. I was there with Spencer, desperately wanting Dalton to realize his worth, feeling it in my heart when he had his lows and super happy when he smiled, when he was able to let go. Above everything Dalton wanted to protect Spencer from the circumstances that surrounded him. To say what they are would be to spoil the book for readers. I agonized with Spencer, felt her pain, her happiness, and even crinkled my nose too. And with Dalton, I wanted to save him plain and simple. At times I wanted to shake him. And sometimes I just wanted to hug him. The life that some of the kids live in our society is very sad. And this one will leave you shaking. Spencer won’t give up on her friend though, the man she loves. She will do anything, absolutely anything to protect him too.
I also loved the secondary characters presented in this book, especially Cassie and Rat. I think Cassie deserves her own book and she brought the perfect balance to the story. And omg I was so grateful to Kirk!!
Being under the influence of these characters was a journey so worthy of that ending that L.B. Simmons gave them. Sunsets will never be the same againm
“I won’t give up on you. I will never stop believing in you. And I will continue to fight for you until the day I die, because without you here…I do not exist.”~Spencer
“Spencer Locke is my air. I just hope the immorality I’m forced to carry deep within my soul doesn’t one day pollute her very essence.” ~Dalton
What a journey Under the Influence is. We have Dalton Greer, a damaged, broken and resentful young man. He is mad at the world and the world has not been good to him at all. And one day he meets Spencer Locke and his life changes, his inside changes. He begins to feel, to see, to want.
“ I want to be for her. I want to exist just so I can experience her. I want to live, to feel, to laugh, and to love with her.” ~Dalton
I was transported to this world of pain, heartache, and sunsets. I was there with Spencer, desperately wanting Dalton to realize his worth, feeling it in my heart when he had his lows and super happy when he smiled, when he was able to let go. Above everything Dalton wanted to protect Spencer from the circumstances that surrounded him. To say what they are would be to spoil the book for readers. I agonized with Spencer, felt her pain, her happiness, and even crinkled my nose too. And with Dalton, I wanted to save him plain and simple. At times I wanted to shake him. And sometimes I just wanted to hug him. The life that some of the kids live in our society is very sad. And this one will leave you shaking. Spencer won’t give up on her friend though, the man she loves. She will do anything, absolutely anything to protect him too.
I also loved the secondary characters presented in this book, especially Cassie and Rat. I think Cassie deserves her own book and she brought the perfect balance to the story. And omg I was so grateful to Kirk!!
Being under the influence of these characters was a journey so worthy of that ending that L.B. Simmons gave them. Sunsets will never be the same againm
“I won’t give up on you. I will never stop believing in you. And I will continue to fight for you until the day I die, because without you here…I do not exist.”~Spencer
August 1, 2020
Thank you to NetGalley and Spencer Hill Press for allowing me to read and review this angsty tale of love and heartbreak by LB Simmons. I really LOVE the premise of this book. What a fabulous set up of the author to have these two young souls who have endured so much as young children and been put in a position where they just can’t be together *now.* Seeing how much they want to be together when they’re teens, especially in the scene where they are twelve-year-olds, because their chemistry is quite clear even there in that first scene together, is just heartbreaking. I thought the idea of having three stages of life together, and of our hero, Dalton, needing to clean up his mistakes, albeit not necessarily ones that were entirely his fault as he has a childhood no one would envy and got into organized crime as a result, before he and Spencer could be together was a clever idea.
Disclaimer: I received a free copy of this book from the author.
Disclaimer: I received a free copy of this book from the author.
May 23, 2015
5++ COMPLETE SOULMATES STARS!
This book was absolutely breathtaking. I felt it through the words, through the sentences, and very much through the engrossing dual POVs. I felt it everywhere, that profound love between the characters was always there, vividly present, and making my heart swell constantly with emotions. I LOVED and FELT it so much throughout the whole story that there was not a single moment where I ever doubted that these two passionate characters were true and complete soulmates .
This is the story of two childhood friends, Spencer (the girl) and Dalton. Two characters that have their own tragic stories but when destiny brings them together at a very young age, they finally find true meaning in their lives. Because from that moment on a special bond forms between them, a bond that may have started as friendship but soon enough it transforms into a powerful and unconditional love. A love that becomes their reason, their everything, and the only light into the their darkness.
“She is my reprieve. My air. Spencer Locke is the one slice of happy I have in this shit pie I call life.”
Under the Influence was a complete beauty of a story for me. My heart was immediately invested right from the prologue with all the intensity, the angst, and the longing that was there. It all felt so palpable even in those early pages that in no time I got fascinated with the story. Then I read some more and it didn't take long for me to fall in love, completely. Omg, the many phases Spencer and Dalton go through in this story were beyond captivating. The way they meet, their heartfelt friendship, how they fall in love, and then all the hardship they're put through really had my heart in an emotional overdrive that I absolutely loved. Oh yes, their journey was intense and I loved it all so much yet my favorite thing about it was always their transcending connection and passion for each other. How no matter the circumstances, sorrow or joy, their unconditional love always amplified every single emotion and experiencing that along with them was totally mesmerizing.
“For the first time in as long as I can remember, I’m glad to be alive. Because in her, I find purpose. I want to be for her. I want to exist just so I can experience her. I want to live, to feel, to laugh, and to love with her.”
“I have always belonged to you. I will always belong to you. Regardless of what you've done, what you do, or what you will do, I will forever be yours.”
I truly believe that it was the author's remarkable writing that made me love this story so much. Yes, Ms. Simmons was just flawless with words and emotions and the way she perfectly matched scenes with POVs really created some unforgettable moments for me. Also, I loved how her writing overall always felt so natural and effortless that I never had a problem with connecting with the characters. Oh and those characters, my dear Spencer and Dalton. Both of them have all my heart for giving me such a beautiful and epic romance about two complete soulmates . ❤️❤️
“We were meant to be. Forever and as one. Always.”
This was my first book by this wonderful author and I can most definitely say it won't be my last one. I'm eager to read more of her books now and fall in love once again with her writing but for right now, I have to say that I absolutely LOVED this one and I cannot recommend it enough. If you're looking for your next friends-to-lovers romance, second chance romance, angsty/emotional romance, or an unforgettable love story be sure to pick up this one. Because Under the Influence is all of the above and yet so much more. ;)
Purchase: Amazon US * Amazon UK
Visit my blog at Nancy's Romance Reads for more reviews, book news, and more! HAPPY READING! ;)
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This book was absolutely breathtaking. I felt it through the words, through the sentences, and very much through the engrossing dual POVs. I felt it everywhere, that profound love between the characters was always there, vividly present, and making my heart swell constantly with emotions. I LOVED and FELT it so much throughout the whole story that there was not a single moment where I ever doubted that these two passionate characters were true and complete soulmates .
This is the story of two childhood friends, Spencer (the girl) and Dalton. Two characters that have their own tragic stories but when destiny brings them together at a very young age, they finally find true meaning in their lives. Because from that moment on a special bond forms between them, a bond that may have started as friendship but soon enough it transforms into a powerful and unconditional love. A love that becomes their reason, their everything, and the only light into the their darkness.
“She is my reprieve. My air. Spencer Locke is the one slice of happy I have in this shit pie I call life.”
Under the Influence was a complete beauty of a story for me. My heart was immediately invested right from the prologue with all the intensity, the angst, and the longing that was there. It all felt so palpable even in those early pages that in no time I got fascinated with the story. Then I read some more and it didn't take long for me to fall in love, completely. Omg, the many phases Spencer and Dalton go through in this story were beyond captivating. The way they meet, their heartfelt friendship, how they fall in love, and then all the hardship they're put through really had my heart in an emotional overdrive that I absolutely loved. Oh yes, their journey was intense and I loved it all so much yet my favorite thing about it was always their transcending connection and passion for each other. How no matter the circumstances, sorrow or joy, their unconditional love always amplified every single emotion and experiencing that along with them was totally mesmerizing.
“For the first time in as long as I can remember, I’m glad to be alive. Because in her, I find purpose. I want to be for her. I want to exist just so I can experience her. I want to live, to feel, to laugh, and to love with her.”
“I have always belonged to you. I will always belong to you. Regardless of what you've done, what you do, or what you will do, I will forever be yours.”
I truly believe that it was the author's remarkable writing that made me love this story so much. Yes, Ms. Simmons was just flawless with words and emotions and the way she perfectly matched scenes with POVs really created some unforgettable moments for me. Also, I loved how her writing overall always felt so natural and effortless that I never had a problem with connecting with the characters. Oh and those characters, my dear Spencer and Dalton. Both of them have all my heart for giving me such a beautiful and epic romance about two complete soulmates . ❤️❤️
“We were meant to be. Forever and as one. Always.”
This was my first book by this wonderful author and I can most definitely say it won't be my last one. I'm eager to read more of her books now and fall in love once again with her writing but for right now, I have to say that I absolutely LOVED this one and I cannot recommend it enough. If you're looking for your next friends-to-lovers romance, second chance romance, angsty/emotional romance, or an unforgettable love story be sure to pick up this one. Because Under the Influence is all of the above and yet so much more. ;)
Purchase: Amazon US * Amazon UK
Visit my blog at Nancy's Romance Reads for more reviews, book news, and more! HAPPY READING! ;)
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May 10, 2015
Review: Surj 4.5 STARS
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God this book made my heart hurt. I mean the synopsis for "Under the Influence" should have been warning enough that my vital organ would not go unscathed but nothing could have prepared me for the pain I experienced when I read Dalton and Spencer's story. Their journey to finding a HEA was one that was raw, gritty and often brutal with some of the subject matters covered particularly hard hitting. However, it was the epic love story woven amongst the pages that completely stole my heart and had me rooting for this couple. The day Dalton and Spencer met as children sealed their fate. It was written in the stars. They were meant to be together but it would take a lot of pain, suffering and sacrifice before they finally found their salvation... and so began the painful process of having my heart shattered.
Told in three parts, I loved the way "Under the Influence" was delivered to the reader. It was unique and really added something special to Dalton and Spencer's journey. Each part gave me something different, pulling very different emotions from me but it was the the second part entitled "Withdrawal" that wrecked me. I was listening to this book on my long journey home (courtesy of kindle fire) and I was a complete mess. From the first letter to the last, my heart broke for Dalton and Spencer. The raw emotion, the heart felt honesty in those notes broke me and once the water works started, there was no switching them off. My chest hurt from the uncontrollable sobs that wracked it. My eyes were swollen and red from the tears. I dread to think what fellow drivers thought when they saw me as I waited in a traffic jam but I didn't care. This story had consumed me. It had affected me in such a way that I had to keep reading (listening). This wasn't how it was supposed to happen but it had to be this way. It was a balsy move to deliver such an important part of the book this way but it worked... it really worked as I got sucked into the emotional vortex of those notes.
Each and every character in this book played a pivotal role in how this book played out. Rat and Cassie were loyal, loving friends who would do everything and anything for Dalton and Spencer. They were witty and definitely bought some much needed humour to what was (on the whole) a serious story line. And Spencer's mother ... just wow. The unconditional love and affection she offered not only to her daughter but the other kids left me in awe. Then there was Kirk Lawson who I was a little unsure of at the start but who really came through in the end.
So let's talk Dalton and Spencer. Both characters had suffered unimaginably as children, their past determining their future. Each had travelled a very different path but both were seeking the same thing... peace, solace, a home and that's what they found in one another. From the minute they shared their first sunset as children, an unbreakable bond was formed. A friendship that would span years. but when the past, the present and a potential future collided, would what they shared stand the test of time?
Spencer's character was inspirational. She was selfless and what she offered was unconditional. she saw in Dalton what he couldn't see through the darkness that had consumed him and she made sure that he knew what a wonderful man he truly was. And Dalton...there was so much strength in his character yet this vulnerability that made me want to wrap him up in cotton wool and protect him from the big bad world. Caught between a rock and a hard place, he could see no way out of his situation. With no self worth, no self esteem, he saw himself as a nobody. A nobody that didn't deserve happiness or love. A nobody that didn't deserve the unconditional affection of the girl that had stolen his heart. What he didn't see was a man willing to sacrifice his own happiness for others. A man that would go to the ends of the earth to protect those he loved. And that (despite everything else) put him in my good books.
It was difficult not to be affected by Spencer and Dalton's connection. The friendship they shared was beautiful and with the undeniable chemistry ever present in the background, this was a couple that truly belonged together. If only life was so simple.
"Under the Influence" was about the unconditional hand of friendship. It was about love, sacrifice and atonement. But most importantly, it was a story about hope and never giving up. Spencer and Dalton's story was one that captured my heart. The writing, the characters, the direction the story line took, the curve balls... all of these elements made it a book I was 100% invested in and one that I just couldn't put down. Honestly, this is definitely worth the read. If you love L.B Simmons (in fact even if you've never heard of her), get this book!!! You won't be disappointed. I rated "Under the Influence" ❤️❤️❤️❤️.5
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God this book made my heart hurt. I mean the synopsis for "Under the Influence" should have been warning enough that my vital organ would not go unscathed but nothing could have prepared me for the pain I experienced when I read Dalton and Spencer's story. Their journey to finding a HEA was one that was raw, gritty and often brutal with some of the subject matters covered particularly hard hitting. However, it was the epic love story woven amongst the pages that completely stole my heart and had me rooting for this couple. The day Dalton and Spencer met as children sealed their fate. It was written in the stars. They were meant to be together but it would take a lot of pain, suffering and sacrifice before they finally found their salvation... and so began the painful process of having my heart shattered.
"It's time for me to grow up. And the only way to do that is to let you go. I have to."
Told in three parts, I loved the way "Under the Influence" was delivered to the reader. It was unique and really added something special to Dalton and Spencer's journey. Each part gave me something different, pulling very different emotions from me but it was the the second part entitled "Withdrawal" that wrecked me. I was listening to this book on my long journey home (courtesy of kindle fire) and I was a complete mess. From the first letter to the last, my heart broke for Dalton and Spencer. The raw emotion, the heart felt honesty in those notes broke me and once the water works started, there was no switching them off. My chest hurt from the uncontrollable sobs that wracked it. My eyes were swollen and red from the tears. I dread to think what fellow drivers thought when they saw me as I waited in a traffic jam but I didn't care. This story had consumed me. It had affected me in such a way that I had to keep reading (listening). This wasn't how it was supposed to happen but it had to be this way. It was a balsy move to deliver such an important part of the book this way but it worked... it really worked as I got sucked into the emotional vortex of those notes.
Superman stares back at me as she states, “You’re good like him. A hero. You just don’t know it yet.”
Each and every character in this book played a pivotal role in how this book played out. Rat and Cassie were loyal, loving friends who would do everything and anything for Dalton and Spencer. They were witty and definitely bought some much needed humour to what was (on the whole) a serious story line. And Spencer's mother ... just wow. The unconditional love and affection she offered not only to her daughter but the other kids left me in awe. Then there was Kirk Lawson who I was a little unsure of at the start but who really came through in the end.
So let's talk Dalton and Spencer. Both characters had suffered unimaginably as children, their past determining their future. Each had travelled a very different path but both were seeking the same thing... peace, solace, a home and that's what they found in one another. From the minute they shared their first sunset as children, an unbreakable bond was formed. A friendship that would span years. but when the past, the present and a potential future collided, would what they shared stand the test of time?
"There's so much more to you than you believe, Dalton. You think yourself incapable of trust and compassion, of patience and empathy, but I know better." She lifts her hand and flattens her palm on her chest. "I know because I feel you here. The real you, not the concocted version you want everyone else to see."
Spencer's character was inspirational. She was selfless and what she offered was unconditional. she saw in Dalton what he couldn't see through the darkness that had consumed him and she made sure that he knew what a wonderful man he truly was. And Dalton...there was so much strength in his character yet this vulnerability that made me want to wrap him up in cotton wool and protect him from the big bad world. Caught between a rock and a hard place, he could see no way out of his situation. With no self worth, no self esteem, he saw himself as a nobody. A nobody that didn't deserve happiness or love. A nobody that didn't deserve the unconditional affection of the girl that had stolen his heart. What he didn't see was a man willing to sacrifice his own happiness for others. A man that would go to the ends of the earth to protect those he loved. And that (despite everything else) put him in my good books.
"I want you Spence, but I can't have you. I won't allow it. You're too good, too pure, too innocent, and just as your presence soothes me, mine will eventually flaw you. It's inevitable, and I care too much for you to let that happen."
It was difficult not to be affected by Spencer and Dalton's connection. The friendship they shared was beautiful and with the undeniable chemistry ever present in the background, this was a couple that truly belonged together. If only life was so simple.
"Under the Influence" was about the unconditional hand of friendship. It was about love, sacrifice and atonement. But most importantly, it was a story about hope and never giving up. Spencer and Dalton's story was one that captured my heart. The writing, the characters, the direction the story line took, the curve balls... all of these elements made it a book I was 100% invested in and one that I just couldn't put down. Honestly, this is definitely worth the read. If you love L.B Simmons (in fact even if you've never heard of her), get this book!!! You won't be disappointed. I rated "Under the Influence" ❤️❤️❤️❤️.5
May 25, 2015
4 emotional stars!!!
This book really flew under my radar and I'm glad that I took notice and read it.This is by far one of the most emotional and poetic books that I've read.
Dalton and Spencer have been friends since they were young.Both having a traumatic childhood,they found solace in each other and formed an unbreakable bond.Spencer has always had feelings for Dalton but feared that thy wouldn't be reciprocated so she says nothing and comes up with a plan.
Having a really bad childhood changes a person and that was no exception for Dalton.He feels like he doesn't deserve to be loved,to be cared for and he thinks that he will taint Spencer if he admits his true feelings for her.I felt his struggle and his emotions while he was battling these feelings and I loved that.He wasn't perfect,he was FLAWED.The internal struggles were real and so freakin poetic.I had to stop myself from highlighting the heck out of this book.
After finally admitting their attraction to one another,the relationship begins.Happily ever after right? Wrong! I did not see that bump in the road coming and quite frankly I was pissed and heartbroken.The story did do a time jump and while I appreciated that because I like to see growth in my characters,I wanted to strangle Dalton.My feelings did change once he explained himself but for that brief moment, he was on my s@#t list.
Although I truly truly loved this story,I was not happy with certain things.Hence the 4 stars.I wanted more passion and more angst.Yes this was very emotional and raw but I just needed that extra.I will definetely read more of this author's work because I love her writing style.
This book really flew under my radar and I'm glad that I took notice and read it.This is by far one of the most emotional and poetic books that I've read.
Dalton and Spencer have been friends since they were young.Both having a traumatic childhood,they found solace in each other and formed an unbreakable bond.Spencer has always had feelings for Dalton but feared that thy wouldn't be reciprocated so she says nothing and comes up with a plan.
Having a really bad childhood changes a person and that was no exception for Dalton.He feels like he doesn't deserve to be loved,to be cared for and he thinks that he will taint Spencer if he admits his true feelings for her.I felt his struggle and his emotions while he was battling these feelings and I loved that.He wasn't perfect,he was FLAWED.The internal struggles were real and so freakin poetic.I had to stop myself from highlighting the heck out of this book.
After finally admitting their attraction to one another,the relationship begins.Happily ever after right? Wrong! I did not see that bump in the road coming and quite frankly I was pissed and heartbroken.The story did do a time jump and while I appreciated that because I like to see growth in my characters,I wanted to strangle Dalton.My feelings did change once he explained himself but for that brief moment, he was on my s@#t list.
Although I truly truly loved this story,I was not happy with certain things.Hence the 4 stars.I wanted more passion and more angst.Yes this was very emotional and raw but I just needed that extra.I will definetely read more of this author's work because I love her writing style.
April 6, 2016
It took me much longer to read this book than I wanted. I was thwarted by RL and so it was slow-going, but maybe that was a good thing. I got to stretch it out and make it last, because I really loved Spencer and Dalton's story, AND I loved Cassie and Spencer's story--their friendship--almost as much.
I loved how real the dialogue sounded, how easily I could imagine the scene unfolding right before my eyes. LB Simmons has a way of capturing a moment, esp between friends, that was light and yet had years of context and backstory behind it.
Dalton's devotion to Spencer at any cost (esp. to his own happiness), was heartwarming, and the dangerous elements that provided the conflict were just the right amount without going over the top. I'm also a fan of the author's depiction of sex scenes, as being not modest by any stretch, but rich with emotion too.
And mostly I loved Spencer. She was a strong heroine who never gave up on Dalton but held her own when she perceived he did her wrong. She was smart, funny, and independent. Win!
I love this author's voice and I can't wait to read more from her, because when you find a writer who seems to share many of the same sensibilities as you do (respectful treatment of women, delicate topics handled with intelligence and care, etc) you want to gobble up their entire backlist.
5 stars!
I loved how real the dialogue sounded, how easily I could imagine the scene unfolding right before my eyes. LB Simmons has a way of capturing a moment, esp between friends, that was light and yet had years of context and backstory behind it.
Dalton's devotion to Spencer at any cost (esp. to his own happiness), was heartwarming, and the dangerous elements that provided the conflict were just the right amount without going over the top. I'm also a fan of the author's depiction of sex scenes, as being not modest by any stretch, but rich with emotion too.
And mostly I loved Spencer. She was a strong heroine who never gave up on Dalton but held her own when she perceived he did her wrong. She was smart, funny, and independent. Win!
I love this author's voice and I can't wait to read more from her, because when you find a writer who seems to share many of the same sensibilities as you do (respectful treatment of women, delicate topics handled with intelligence and care, etc) you want to gobble up their entire backlist.
5 stars!
May 11, 2015
Wow, what an amazing rollercoaster ride of emotions we get in this book! I felt the "feels" right from the prologue! Once again L.B. gives us a book that wrings everything out of us and slowly puts us back together.
Spencer Locke first meets Dalton Greer when he shows up on her doorstep as a Foster kid. They develop an instant friendship and Dalton becomes the protective big brother. He's had a very hard life and had to grow up way too fast. In order to survive he's traveled down a path that is nearly impossible to get off.
Right from the beginning I fell in love with Spencer. She's a very level headed girl who looks at life in a very realistic way, not your typical teenager. She's grown up being exposed to foster kids and charity work, her mother working as a guidance counselor and in various shelters.
I am such a sucker for stories about friends who fall in love, and L.B. does an excellent job of laying the groundwork for Spencer and Dalton's growing relationship. Dalton will do anything to protect Spencer, even if it means protecting her from himself. " Spencer Locke is the one slice of happy I have in this shit pie I call life." The decisions that Dalton has to make in order to protect Spencer nearly gutted me but L.B. masterfully lays out why his actions are necessary.
I fell in love with the secondary characters in this book. Cassie is Spencer's best friend and her brain and mouth have no filter which makes for some very funny scenarios. I loved their connection and how close they are, "Love you, times two." Rat is Dalton's best friend and he is the hilarious comic relief that lightens up some tense situations. Spencer's mom, Deborah is a great anchor for her, providing her with wisdom and guidance but still giving her the space she needs to live her life and make her own decisions. I wish I had a mom like her! Kirk is also a very integral character who ends up playing a very significant role in both Spencer and Dalton's lives.
L.B. has divided this book into three parts and finishing part one, I knew part two was going to wreck me! But saying that, I absolutely loved how she presents this part of the book. I'm not going to tell you what she does, you have to read it for yourselves! Just be prepared with a box of tissues, wine and chocolate or whatever your comfort items are!
Part three leads us into the reunion of Spencer and Dalton. Finally my heart is starting to be put back together!! But here is where the suspense starts to build and instead of my heart clenching it was my stomach clenching, furiously turning pages to find out what happens next! The other side of Dalton's life that he tried to desperately to keep Spencer away from lands them smack dab in the middle of a situation that I was scared to death they wouldn't be able to recover from!
The ending of this book was pure perfection for me. What I truly loved throughout the book was Dalton's expressions of his feelings. He's very eloquent in describing how he feels about Spencer and he had me swooning all throughout the book. I might need to let my husband read this so he can learn a thing or two about how to express his feelings!! "I live and breathe because of her and I will continue to do so making sure that each day, she understands the depths of my love for her." OK tell me any girl who wouldn't swoon hearing their man say something like that!!
True perfection! I highly recommend this book to everyone who loves to read a book that makes them feel every kind of emotion there is. Bravo L.B.!
Spencer Locke first meets Dalton Greer when he shows up on her doorstep as a Foster kid. They develop an instant friendship and Dalton becomes the protective big brother. He's had a very hard life and had to grow up way too fast. In order to survive he's traveled down a path that is nearly impossible to get off.
Right from the beginning I fell in love with Spencer. She's a very level headed girl who looks at life in a very realistic way, not your typical teenager. She's grown up being exposed to foster kids and charity work, her mother working as a guidance counselor and in various shelters.
I am such a sucker for stories about friends who fall in love, and L.B. does an excellent job of laying the groundwork for Spencer and Dalton's growing relationship. Dalton will do anything to protect Spencer, even if it means protecting her from himself. " Spencer Locke is the one slice of happy I have in this shit pie I call life." The decisions that Dalton has to make in order to protect Spencer nearly gutted me but L.B. masterfully lays out why his actions are necessary.
I fell in love with the secondary characters in this book. Cassie is Spencer's best friend and her brain and mouth have no filter which makes for some very funny scenarios. I loved their connection and how close they are, "Love you, times two." Rat is Dalton's best friend and he is the hilarious comic relief that lightens up some tense situations. Spencer's mom, Deborah is a great anchor for her, providing her with wisdom and guidance but still giving her the space she needs to live her life and make her own decisions. I wish I had a mom like her! Kirk is also a very integral character who ends up playing a very significant role in both Spencer and Dalton's lives.
L.B. has divided this book into three parts and finishing part one, I knew part two was going to wreck me! But saying that, I absolutely loved how she presents this part of the book. I'm not going to tell you what she does, you have to read it for yourselves! Just be prepared with a box of tissues, wine and chocolate or whatever your comfort items are!
Part three leads us into the reunion of Spencer and Dalton. Finally my heart is starting to be put back together!! But here is where the suspense starts to build and instead of my heart clenching it was my stomach clenching, furiously turning pages to find out what happens next! The other side of Dalton's life that he tried to desperately to keep Spencer away from lands them smack dab in the middle of a situation that I was scared to death they wouldn't be able to recover from!
The ending of this book was pure perfection for me. What I truly loved throughout the book was Dalton's expressions of his feelings. He's very eloquent in describing how he feels about Spencer and he had me swooning all throughout the book. I might need to let my husband read this so he can learn a thing or two about how to express his feelings!! "I live and breathe because of her and I will continue to do so making sure that each day, she understands the depths of my love for her." OK tell me any girl who wouldn't swoon hearing their man say something like that!!
True perfection! I highly recommend this book to everyone who loves to read a book that makes them feel every kind of emotion there is. Bravo L.B.!
May 11, 2015
5 Amazing Stars!
Review by Allison East
Whenever I read a LB Simmons book, I immediately know a
variety of things. One, that it will be an emotional
journey- one that reduces me to tears, probably several
times- and brings me to the brink of insanity- and then back
again. Two, that I will fall in love with the characters-
main and secondary, and in different ways each time. And
three, that it will teach me something. Something I that I
may have known, but was lying dormant. Or something totally
new and it always humbles me.
And while Under the Influence is no Aubrey Miller- I
didn't expect it to be. I didn't want it to be.
I wanted to like it for different reasons than I liked Aubrey's
story and I did. Because where would we be if every story
expected from an author was the same?
I don't lie when I read, I don't like to suck
up and brown nose authors whom I like or are friends with, because
everyone deserves the truth, whether or not they choose to
listen to it- is up to them. Did this book grab me up and
swallow me whole like Aubrey- no. But it was written in such
a way that made me FEEL- everything. I was laughing, crying,
and clutching my chest because I couldn't breathe
(which LB reminded me it was important to do). Will I remember this
book forever? ABSOFREAKINGLUTELY.
"Listen to your heart Spence. Because mine is beating
wildly inside your chest. I am with you. Always."
The main characters are Spencer and Dalton. And what a wild
ride their lives have been. The story is told in dual POV,
with a little POV from the devil himself included- you'll
get it, just read it. The book was divided into three parts-
and while I love part one, because you got to know the main
characters- like really know their inner workings, and
thoughts- parts two and three amazed me. Everything about
those parts were ethereal, guttural and just damn
overwhelming, but in the very best way.
Dalton Greer has been passed from home to home, and it has
made him just so angry. All he ever wanted was to be loved,
and get love in return. And he has had it rough- to say the
least.
"And just as the chameleon changes color to blend for
protection, I've learned to evolve into the person I
need to be in order to survive the situation at hand, all while
keeping people at arm's length."
And just when he thinks it can't get any worse, it
does- when he meets Silas Kincaid. He is the devil incarnate- and
while I have hated many characters in books before, his
character is the worst kind. Manipulative and calculating,
and it was easy for Dalton to fall under his spell,
especially since he was going hungry all the time and Silas
made him plenty of promises. And then, he meets Spencer
Locke.
Spencer Locke- is like an angel. Seriously, I had this gut
feeling when the book was over LB was going to say
everything was a dream and Spencer wasn't real,
because she was just that unearthly. People like her don't
exist anymore! And her female character was not whiny, or shy, or
bossy- it was perfection. She was kind, trustworthy, and
most of all- strong when it mattered most.
"I know we will never be more than friends, by my
heart is relentless. And a traitor. It abandoned me that day on
the porch leaving me to suffer in silence with my unrequited
crush."
And Spencer to Dalton- was life, and vice versa. It
perfectly evident from the way they met, to their daily
interactions that they were meant to be together. Even if
they didn't realize it- it was always her for him and
him for her.
"Yes Spencer Locke is indeed my air. I just hope the
immorality I've chosen to bury deep within my soul
doesn't one day pollute her very essence."
I La-la-loved that this book spanned five years, it follows
the journey that both characters take on from their teens
into their early 20's and how the experiences they
have taken from what has happened to each of them molds the
person they have turned into. And I loved every single
moment of the ride.
"My life didn't begin until the day I met
you."
And more than anything, character development is very
important to me. I feel like, not just in books- but real
life too. I am the main character of the story My
Life. I need to make sure I have special supporting
characters around me, Dalton and Spence sure do have those
in spades.
While Silas is very much the devil's son- Kirk Lawson
is the antithesis. He is all that is good and right in the
world. He is like the angel on Dalton's left
shoulder-and Silas is the devil on the right. Kirk is a police officer,
and he is always helping Dalton out, like he knows he is a
good kid, he means well- and he does know right from wrong.
Deborah is a modern day Joan of Arc, swooping in to take
care of all the children who have been abused, and
abandoned- and becoming an emergency mom to so many. She is
also Spencer's mom and a great character to look up.
Cassie is the bestie. I love her times two. Really I do.
She is a great addition, positive, strong- and level headed
(for the most part.)
And Rat- what an unfortunate name, for such a cool
character. He is Dalton's best friend, his ride or die
friend- who has gone to hell and back with him. He is a
great character in this book for sure.
And two quotes- just because her writing slays me.
"You claimed my heart years ago Dalton, but now I
want you to have all over me. Every single piece, together body
and soul, I offer freely because they already belong to you.
All you have to do is accept them as you take me."
"My life has been one that I would wish on anyone.
But you, God, Spencer. I would live this s**tty life ten
times over just to be guaranteed I would have you in it. You are
the reason I keep living. And to see you lying her in front
of me, asking me to take you. It should be the other way
around. I should be begging you to take me, for you to
accept me, but I don't have to because you do so
without hesitation."
*SWOON*.
Another hit out of the part from LB again. She is amazing,
and I wouldn't wait to get this book- I would get your
one clicky finger ready. So ready, that you have finger cramps
(if that's possible). You should read this book- take
the day. Read it in one sitting; devour it, like I have. Because
you will be under the influence of LB's words (see
what I did there?) Trust me.
Review by Allison East
Whenever I read a LB Simmons book, I immediately know a
variety of things. One, that it will be an emotional
journey- one that reduces me to tears, probably several
times- and brings me to the brink of insanity- and then back
again. Two, that I will fall in love with the characters-
main and secondary, and in different ways each time. And
three, that it will teach me something. Something I that I
may have known, but was lying dormant. Or something totally
new and it always humbles me.
And while Under the Influence is no Aubrey Miller- I
didn't expect it to be. I didn't want it to be.
I wanted to like it for different reasons than I liked Aubrey's
story and I did. Because where would we be if every story
expected from an author was the same?
I don't lie when I read, I don't like to suck
up and brown nose authors whom I like or are friends with, because
everyone deserves the truth, whether or not they choose to
listen to it- is up to them. Did this book grab me up and
swallow me whole like Aubrey- no. But it was written in such
a way that made me FEEL- everything. I was laughing, crying,
and clutching my chest because I couldn't breathe
(which LB reminded me it was important to do). Will I remember this
book forever? ABSOFREAKINGLUTELY.
"Listen to your heart Spence. Because mine is beating
wildly inside your chest. I am with you. Always."
The main characters are Spencer and Dalton. And what a wild
ride their lives have been. The story is told in dual POV,
with a little POV from the devil himself included- you'll
get it, just read it. The book was divided into three parts-
and while I love part one, because you got to know the main
characters- like really know their inner workings, and
thoughts- parts two and three amazed me. Everything about
those parts were ethereal, guttural and just damn
overwhelming, but in the very best way.
Dalton Greer has been passed from home to home, and it has
made him just so angry. All he ever wanted was to be loved,
and get love in return. And he has had it rough- to say the
least.
"And just as the chameleon changes color to blend for
protection, I've learned to evolve into the person I
need to be in order to survive the situation at hand, all while
keeping people at arm's length."
And just when he thinks it can't get any worse, it
does- when he meets Silas Kincaid. He is the devil incarnate- and
while I have hated many characters in books before, his
character is the worst kind. Manipulative and calculating,
and it was easy for Dalton to fall under his spell,
especially since he was going hungry all the time and Silas
made him plenty of promises. And then, he meets Spencer
Locke.
Spencer Locke- is like an angel. Seriously, I had this gut
feeling when the book was over LB was going to say
everything was a dream and Spencer wasn't real,
because she was just that unearthly. People like her don't
exist anymore! And her female character was not whiny, or shy, or
bossy- it was perfection. She was kind, trustworthy, and
most of all- strong when it mattered most.
"I know we will never be more than friends, by my
heart is relentless. And a traitor. It abandoned me that day on
the porch leaving me to suffer in silence with my unrequited
crush."
And Spencer to Dalton- was life, and vice versa. It
perfectly evident from the way they met, to their daily
interactions that they were meant to be together. Even if
they didn't realize it- it was always her for him and
him for her.
"Yes Spencer Locke is indeed my air. I just hope the
immorality I've chosen to bury deep within my soul
doesn't one day pollute her very essence."
I La-la-loved that this book spanned five years, it follows
the journey that both characters take on from their teens
into their early 20's and how the experiences they
have taken from what has happened to each of them molds the
person they have turned into. And I loved every single
moment of the ride.
"My life didn't begin until the day I met
you."
And more than anything, character development is very
important to me. I feel like, not just in books- but real
life too. I am the main character of the story My
Life. I need to make sure I have special supporting
characters around me, Dalton and Spence sure do have those
in spades.
While Silas is very much the devil's son- Kirk Lawson
is the antithesis. He is all that is good and right in the
world. He is like the angel on Dalton's left
shoulder-and Silas is the devil on the right. Kirk is a police officer,
and he is always helping Dalton out, like he knows he is a
good kid, he means well- and he does know right from wrong.
Deborah is a modern day Joan of Arc, swooping in to take
care of all the children who have been abused, and
abandoned- and becoming an emergency mom to so many. She is
also Spencer's mom and a great character to look up.
Cassie is the bestie. I love her times two. Really I do.
She is a great addition, positive, strong- and level headed
(for the most part.)
And Rat- what an unfortunate name, for such a cool
character. He is Dalton's best friend, his ride or die
friend- who has gone to hell and back with him. He is a
great character in this book for sure.
And two quotes- just because her writing slays me.
"You claimed my heart years ago Dalton, but now I
want you to have all over me. Every single piece, together body
and soul, I offer freely because they already belong to you.
All you have to do is accept them as you take me."
"My life has been one that I would wish on anyone.
But you, God, Spencer. I would live this s**tty life ten
times over just to be guaranteed I would have you in it. You are
the reason I keep living. And to see you lying her in front
of me, asking me to take you. It should be the other way
around. I should be begging you to take me, for you to
accept me, but I don't have to because you do so
without hesitation."
*SWOON*.
Another hit out of the part from LB again. She is amazing,
and I wouldn't wait to get this book- I would get your
one clicky finger ready. So ready, that you have finger cramps
(if that's possible). You should read this book- take
the day. Read it in one sitting; devour it, like I have. Because
you will be under the influence of LB's words (see
what I did there?) Trust me.
July 19, 2018
4.5 stars and all the feels!
Wow, what a read! A stunningly written, heartachingly emotional story of friendship and young love torn apart by circumstance, and of hope and the strength of true love in a second-chance-romance that overcomes the darkest of situations. Dalton and Greer’s story is so beautiful with ALL the feels, and I was captivated from the first page through to the end. It’s a surprisingly quick read, but it definitely packs an emotional punch, and I loved it!
And when I say that this book is stunningly written, I mean it! The emotion of the writing sucked me right in, making me feel everything and I literally highlighted pages of text, so prepare for the quote-fest that is this review.
This is listed as book #2 in the Chosen Paths series. Book #1 is Into the Light (previously titled The Resurrection of Aubrey Miller), which I read when it was released, and loved, but this book seems to be a complete standalone. It’s been a really long time since I read the first book, but I couldn’t recall any tie-in. If it’s there, it’s minor, and you can easily dive into this one and appreciate it as a brand new story.
Dalton and Spencer met as twelve year olds. Dalton had survived a revolving door of hellish foster families, leaving him angry and withdrawn, but everything shifted for him when he met the spunky young girl.
And now, five years later, their friendship has not only survived, but it has become something vital to them both.
While Spencer lives with a loving and supportive mother, Dalton had no support and nobody to turn to and was forced into a life of crime with only a criminal overlord to guide him. And now, as an 18 year old, he is in an impossible situation, knowing that he is trapped in a bad place and purposely keeping those he cares about at arm’s length to protect them. But Spencer is the one person he can’t keep away from, and when years of wanting and pent-up longing are finally unleashed, their friendship irrevocably shifts into first, intense, all-consuming, life-changing love.
The beauty of this love story blew me away. Dalton has fears of not being good enough for his sweet Spencer, but she quickly squashes that notion, showing him how she feels openly and unreservedly, and it was so beautiful to watch Dalton experience that kind of emotion for the first time in his life, and effortlessly return it
Oh, so beautiful! This is more than a love story. It’s a story of connection and true soulmates. The bond between Dalton and Spencer is incredibly written and their love for each other literally drips of the page.
But when Dalton’s terrifying reality is revealed, he needs to make a choice. And to protect the ones he loves, he is forced to do the unthinkable.
Feels, feels, feels. I felt it all! My heart broke right alongside Dalton and Spencer at all they endure, but it paves the way for the awesome to come as the strength of their love is put to the test again, and the power of their connection shines through, and I was gripped to my kindle as it all played out.
The ending did feel a bit rushed, and I would have loved a detailed epilogue to finish the story off, but I’m assuming we’ll get to see more of these two characters in the next book of the series, Out of Focus, which features Spencer’s fabulous best friend, Cassie.
Spanning five years, this book has many ups and downs, surprising twists, rapturous highs and the lowest of lows, and through it all, I couldn’t help but cheer for these two characters. Their strengths are remarkable, and their pain and vulnerability made my heart ache. Their story isn’t always easy, but it’s so well written, emotional and achingly beautiful, and I loved it.
4.5 stars.
Review Copy generously provided by the publisher via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
Wow, what a read! A stunningly written, heartachingly emotional story of friendship and young love torn apart by circumstance, and of hope and the strength of true love in a second-chance-romance that overcomes the darkest of situations. Dalton and Greer’s story is so beautiful with ALL the feels, and I was captivated from the first page through to the end. It’s a surprisingly quick read, but it definitely packs an emotional punch, and I loved it!
And when I say that this book is stunningly written, I mean it! The emotion of the writing sucked me right in, making me feel everything and I literally highlighted pages of text, so prepare for the quote-fest that is this review.
This is listed as book #2 in the Chosen Paths series. Book #1 is Into the Light (previously titled The Resurrection of Aubrey Miller), which I read when it was released, and loved, but this book seems to be a complete standalone. It’s been a really long time since I read the first book, but I couldn’t recall any tie-in. If it’s there, it’s minor, and you can easily dive into this one and appreciate it as a brand new story.
Dalton and Spencer met as twelve year olds. Dalton had survived a revolving door of hellish foster families, leaving him angry and withdrawn, but everything shifted for him when he met the spunky young girl.
The day he showed up on our porch, something happened while we watched that first sunset together. I don’t know how or why or if I can even put it into words, but we became forever connected. My hidden pain cried out for his, and his fiery rage searched for mine. It was as though the most deprived parts within each of us sense the other’s, then reached out and grabbed hold, essentially melding us together and making us whole.
I know it because I felt it.
I felt him.
And now, five years later, their friendship has not only survived, but it has become something vital to them both.
Spencer Locke is the only bit of humanity I permit myself to indulge in. She’s the one thing, the one person whose mere presence provides some sense of relief from the constant sense of asphyxiation I feel.
She is my reprieve.
My air.
Spencer Locke is the one slice of happy I have.
While Spencer lives with a loving and supportive mother, Dalton had no support and nobody to turn to and was forced into a life of crime with only a criminal overlord to guide him. And now, as an 18 year old, he is in an impossible situation, knowing that he is trapped in a bad place and purposely keeping those he cares about at arm’s length to protect them. But Spencer is the one person he can’t keep away from, and when years of wanting and pent-up longing are finally unleashed, their friendship irrevocably shifts into first, intense, all-consuming, life-changing love.
“I have always belonged to you. I will always belong to you. Regardless of what you’ve done, what you do, even what you will do, I will forever be yours. And that’s my choice to make, whether you choose me or not.”
“You think I don’t want you? Goddamn it, Spencer,” he bites. “I want you so much I can’t fucking breathe when I’m without you.”
The beauty of this love story blew me away. Dalton has fears of not being good enough for his sweet Spencer, but she quickly squashes that notion, showing him how she feels openly and unreservedly, and it was so beautiful to watch Dalton experience that kind of emotion for the first time in his life, and effortlessly return it
The constant ache in my chest dwindles as it’s replaced with the fervor of renewed hope. Of the promise of love and acceptance with absolutely no expectation other than receiving mine in return.
I open myself completely and give her all that I have – all that I am – and pray that it’s enough.
Oh, so beautiful! This is more than a love story. It’s a story of connection and true soulmates. The bond between Dalton and Spencer is incredibly written and their love for each other literally drips of the page.
“I was broken too, Dalton. Shattered. Unsalvageable.”
My gaze falls to her lips, watching as they curl upward into a timid smile. “Until the day I met you, that is. The day that every single one of my fractured pieces permanently fused with yours, rebuilding me with renewed strength so I could stand strong and fight for you.” She shakes her head. “I won’t give up on you. I will never stop believing in you. And I will continue to fight for you until the day I die because without you here” – she brings my palm to her chest – “I do not exist.”
But when Dalton’s terrifying reality is revealed, he needs to make a choice. And to protect the ones he loves, he is forced to do the unthinkable.
I would give anything, sacrifice everything, for even the smallest of chances to experience the love that only Spencer can provide.
I would die for it.
I would die for her.
Feels, feels, feels. I felt it all! My heart broke right alongside Dalton and Spencer at all they endure, but it paves the way for the awesome to come as the strength of their love is put to the test again, and the power of their connection shines through, and I was gripped to my kindle as it all played out.
“A second chance is a gift that many, many people long to receive, yet sadly, few are given. Never forget that.”
The ending did feel a bit rushed, and I would have loved a detailed epilogue to finish the story off, but I’m assuming we’ll get to see more of these two characters in the next book of the series, Out of Focus, which features Spencer’s fabulous best friend, Cassie.
Spanning five years, this book has many ups and downs, surprising twists, rapturous highs and the lowest of lows, and through it all, I couldn’t help but cheer for these two characters. Their strengths are remarkable, and their pain and vulnerability made my heart ache. Their story isn’t always easy, but it’s so well written, emotional and achingly beautiful, and I loved it.
4.5 stars.
Review Copy generously provided by the publisher via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
June 21, 2017
This story had so many great pieces and was so promising, but I felt like I was waiting and waiting and waiting for it to actually begin. I wanted to love it but I didn't even feel intrigued with it until around 80%. I really like emotional writing, but I have to be able to find it believeable at the same time, and a good chunk of the dialogue in here is definitely not believable. Especially for 17-23 year olds. There were also several discrepancies within time frames/ages, which I found quite obvious.
All in all, good bare bones, an interesting plot, but not my favourite.
All in all, good bare bones, an interesting plot, but not my favourite.
June 16, 2015
Love at first sunset 5 gold stars
*An ARC was given by the author for an honest review*
This book had me on an emotional yo-yo. One moment I was giggling and the next my eyes were tearing up or I went all Hulk on the situation. Yep. Emotional roller-coaster ride that BROKE MY FEELS!
Spencer Locke and Dalton Greer have an incredible connection, they have been best-friends since they met. Their depth of feeling for each other transcends everything else. They, each, would do absolutely anything for the other. Spencer knows that behind the hard-shell that is Dalton Greer lies an incredibly intelligent and compassionate and loving person. She knows that he refuses to show it but she hasn’t given up on him. She will ALWAYS believe in him. The secrets that’s keeping Dalton from being the person Spencer thinks he’s meant to be is all that’s keeping these two kids from having the perfect life.
Oh god, Dalton is amazing. The moment I met him my heart cracked. How did he survive such atrocities? How is it that we humans are capable of such heinous crimes? If I ever meet these so called humans. I am going to... ...
Protecting Spencer is all that drives Dalton, he would do anything for her, ANYTHING, even keep his emotions in a classified storage just to keep her safe. And Spencer, well she lights up his dark world. Her light and her incredible insight, thoughtfulness, compassion and strength blew me away. She is a brand of magic that all children like Dalton and Penelope needs. Aaaah Penelope, oh my god, that little girl has burrowed into my soul the moment she entered the picture. I wept and I went completely postal. My ears and eyes could NOT believe the specrapular incident that occurs in her home. My feels get bashed from here to kingdom come. The stuff Penelope says OH MY GOD!!! Her words made me a gooey, sappy, emotional basket. Naming my 3rd kid Penelope, the first two would be Kaeleb and Aubrey and L.B. knows about it too.
Then there was Cassie, holy cyclone Sally, she's a force to be reckoned with and she's Spencer's other best-friend. She is sassy, funny, and definitely inappropriate at times. That girl has depths that weren’t fully explored but her love and support for Spencer never comes into question. Love her, times kazillion. Then there was Rat, Dalton's childhood friend who has been with him through thick and then and I cannot begin to tell you what transpires to leave me stuttering 'what the... I can't even... ... wha... ... FUDGE!' and mumbling and silently weep.
Two other souls that made me fall in love with them was Deborah and Lawson, these two are the guardians of helpless and fights against the soulless. THEY ARE MY HERO!!!! Deborah fights time and again to make a change in the kids she takes care of and Lawson does the same just in a different way. Then there was Liam, OMG, I freaking loved him and I wanted him to make babies with me. Whaaaat? Umm, yeah of course I did, the guy had an effing beard and long hair. I am totally beard and long hair girl. Anyhooooo, moving onto the plot.
You know those authors who totally grab you from the beginning and then hook you deep and then reel you in and then caste you far and wide into the depthless ocean of FEELS? Yes?? No??? I have been in touch with such an author, fortunately for her I freaking love her like mad. Just when I am going about my merry way thinking this story will not have any more feels to break. A 10 ton worth of craptacular feels pile dives onto me. I am left gasping and unable to breathe. OMG the letters had be blabbering into my pillow. And the letter which most of you know is part of the blurb broke ME.
Is Spencer really ready to leave Dalton for good? Will she finally shed her hopes and dreams and move on? Will Dalton be able to survive without his light? Or will we lose a sweet and beautiful soul to the darkness forever?
You wanna know more? Then I suggest you 1-click this baby and read to find out if my feels indeed survived this ride of sunsets, fairy lights, guns and drug lords.
*An ARC was given by the author for an honest review*
This book had me on an emotional yo-yo. One moment I was giggling and the next my eyes were tearing up or I went all Hulk on the situation. Yep. Emotional roller-coaster ride that BROKE MY FEELS!
Spencer Locke and Dalton Greer have an incredible connection, they have been best-friends since they met. Their depth of feeling for each other transcends everything else. They, each, would do absolutely anything for the other. Spencer knows that behind the hard-shell that is Dalton Greer lies an incredibly intelligent and compassionate and loving person. She knows that he refuses to show it but she hasn’t given up on him. She will ALWAYS believe in him. The secrets that’s keeping Dalton from being the person Spencer thinks he’s meant to be is all that’s keeping these two kids from having the perfect life.
Oh god, Dalton is amazing. The moment I met him my heart cracked. How did he survive such atrocities? How is it that we humans are capable of such heinous crimes? If I ever meet these so called humans. I am going to... ...
Protecting Spencer is all that drives Dalton, he would do anything for her, ANYTHING, even keep his emotions in a classified storage just to keep her safe. And Spencer, well she lights up his dark world. Her light and her incredible insight, thoughtfulness, compassion and strength blew me away. She is a brand of magic that all children like Dalton and Penelope needs. Aaaah Penelope, oh my god, that little girl has burrowed into my soul the moment she entered the picture. I wept and I went completely postal. My ears and eyes could NOT believe the specrapular incident that occurs in her home. My feels get bashed from here to kingdom come. The stuff Penelope says OH MY GOD!!! Her words made me a gooey, sappy, emotional basket. Naming my 3rd kid Penelope, the first two would be Kaeleb and Aubrey and L.B. knows about it too.
Then there was Cassie, holy cyclone Sally, she's a force to be reckoned with and she's Spencer's other best-friend. She is sassy, funny, and definitely inappropriate at times. That girl has depths that weren’t fully explored but her love and support for Spencer never comes into question. Love her, times kazillion. Then there was Rat, Dalton's childhood friend who has been with him through thick and then and I cannot begin to tell you what transpires to leave me stuttering 'what the... I can't even... ... wha... ... FUDGE!' and mumbling and silently weep.
Two other souls that made me fall in love with them was Deborah and Lawson, these two are the guardians of helpless and fights against the soulless. THEY ARE MY HERO!!!! Deborah fights time and again to make a change in the kids she takes care of and Lawson does the same just in a different way. Then there was Liam, OMG, I freaking loved him and I wanted him to make babies with me. Whaaaat? Umm, yeah of course I did, the guy had an effing beard and long hair. I am totally beard and long hair girl. Anyhooooo, moving onto the plot.
You know those authors who totally grab you from the beginning and then hook you deep and then reel you in and then caste you far and wide into the depthless ocean of FEELS? Yes?? No??? I have been in touch with such an author, fortunately for her I freaking love her like mad. Just when I am going about my merry way thinking this story will not have any more feels to break. A 10 ton worth of craptacular feels pile dives onto me. I am left gasping and unable to breathe. OMG the letters had be blabbering into my pillow. And the letter which most of you know is part of the blurb broke ME.
Is Spencer really ready to leave Dalton for good? Will she finally shed her hopes and dreams and move on? Will Dalton be able to survive without his light? Or will we lose a sweet and beautiful soul to the darkness forever?
You wanna know more? Then I suggest you 1-click this baby and read to find out if my feels indeed survived this ride of sunsets, fairy lights, guns and drug lords.
November 28, 2015
Wow! What an amazing read! Under the Influence is a beautifully written love story that tugged at my heart strings. I loved everything about it - the writing, the plot, characterization, and worldbuilding. While this is my first L.B. Simmons book, I know it won't be the last.
This is Spencer (Spence) and Dalton's story, and it's narrated from point characters perspectives. I love reading books in dual POV, and I especially love reading the male perspective so extra brownie points for that.
Spence and Dalton met as kids and thus began a friendship that lasted until they were in their late teens. When we first meet them, Spence is 17 and in her last year of school, and Dalton is 18 and he has just finished. This is the second book in a row I've read where the male character had a troubled background filled with abuse and neglect. And like that other book, Under the Influence made me feel everything he felt, and made me care. I felt a deep emotional connection to both of them. I adore books that really delve into the emotional layers beneath the surface, and this book delivered on that front. I thought both characters were very well-developed, but especially Dalton. It was difficult being in his head at times - raw, gritty, and painful, but it was realistic.
Dalton has cut himself off emotionally from everyone, and even his best bud Rat, and Spence, only catch the odd glimpse of his real persona. He hides who he is in front of Spence out of misguided loyalty and in an attempt to shelter her from the seedier side of his life. He was preyed on as a youngster and has gotten himself into a nasty mess, but he is struggling to see any way out. Because of this, he won't even entertain the notion of a romantic relationship with Spence even though it's what both of them want and need. Eventually, they cave to their feelings and become a couple, and it was so sweet. We got to see a different side to Dalton and he was lighter and brighter as a result.
One beautiful night turns disastrous and they are torn apart from one another. I won't say any more for fear of spoiling the story, but suffice it to say that there is plenty of heartbreak and angst for our young couple.
I thought it was a little slow-paced at the start but after a few chapters the pace picked up and it kept my attention the whole way through.
I loved the secondary characters, especially Cassie. The author is writing her story next and I will definitely check it out. She is an intriguing character, and she had some of the funniest lines and scenes in the book. She always had Spence's back and I loved her as a best friend.
I love this author's writing style! Her prose is beautiful - poetic and eloquent, though others may find it overly descriptive in parts. Not me, I loved every word.
I liked the note the author put in the back - that was a nice touch. I also love this cover. It's stunning!
Overall, this was a fantastic read and it had bits of everything - love and romance, friendship, family, suspense, drama, heartache, sacrifice, and above all else - redemption. I'd highly recommend it.
Actual rating 4.5 stars.
Thanks to the author and Inkslinger PR for providing a copy of this book in exchange for my honest review. This review will appear on my blog in due course: http://myyanabookobsession.com
This is Spencer (Spence) and Dalton's story, and it's narrated from point characters perspectives. I love reading books in dual POV, and I especially love reading the male perspective so extra brownie points for that.
Spence and Dalton met as kids and thus began a friendship that lasted until they were in their late teens. When we first meet them, Spence is 17 and in her last year of school, and Dalton is 18 and he has just finished. This is the second book in a row I've read where the male character had a troubled background filled with abuse and neglect. And like that other book, Under the Influence made me feel everything he felt, and made me care. I felt a deep emotional connection to both of them. I adore books that really delve into the emotional layers beneath the surface, and this book delivered on that front. I thought both characters were very well-developed, but especially Dalton. It was difficult being in his head at times - raw, gritty, and painful, but it was realistic.
Dalton has cut himself off emotionally from everyone, and even his best bud Rat, and Spence, only catch the odd glimpse of his real persona. He hides who he is in front of Spence out of misguided loyalty and in an attempt to shelter her from the seedier side of his life. He was preyed on as a youngster and has gotten himself into a nasty mess, but he is struggling to see any way out. Because of this, he won't even entertain the notion of a romantic relationship with Spence even though it's what both of them want and need. Eventually, they cave to their feelings and become a couple, and it was so sweet. We got to see a different side to Dalton and he was lighter and brighter as a result.
One beautiful night turns disastrous and they are torn apart from one another. I won't say any more for fear of spoiling the story, but suffice it to say that there is plenty of heartbreak and angst for our young couple.
I thought it was a little slow-paced at the start but after a few chapters the pace picked up and it kept my attention the whole way through.
I loved the secondary characters, especially Cassie. The author is writing her story next and I will definitely check it out. She is an intriguing character, and she had some of the funniest lines and scenes in the book. She always had Spence's back and I loved her as a best friend.
I love this author's writing style! Her prose is beautiful - poetic and eloquent, though others may find it overly descriptive in parts. Not me, I loved every word.
I liked the note the author put in the back - that was a nice touch. I also love this cover. It's stunning!
Overall, this was a fantastic read and it had bits of everything - love and romance, friendship, family, suspense, drama, heartache, sacrifice, and above all else - redemption. I'd highly recommend it.
Actual rating 4.5 stars.
Thanks to the author and Inkslinger PR for providing a copy of this book in exchange for my honest review. This review will appear on my blog in due course: http://myyanabookobsession.com
May 12, 2015
An exceptionally well-written friends to lovers story. Both Dalton and Spencer share dark shadows in their lives. One found help earlier than the other. The other still fights the demons and challenges of a seemingly non-escapable life filled with pain and agony.
It's dark, gritty and wired with plenty of angst. At times the story will break your heart and leave you gasping for breath. In the blink of an eye, you'll also find a beautiful and steadfast love where two individuals refuse to give up. But with that also comes more uncertainty and more hurt and heartbreak. Finding a happily-ever-after might not be in the stars for these two.
L.B. Simmons is becoming an addiction in my choice of reading materials of late.
It's dark, gritty and wired with plenty of angst. At times the story will break your heart and leave you gasping for breath. In the blink of an eye, you'll also find a beautiful and steadfast love where two individuals refuse to give up. But with that also comes more uncertainty and more hurt and heartbreak. Finding a happily-ever-after might not be in the stars for these two.
L.B. Simmons is becoming an addiction in my choice of reading materials of late.
Read
February 24, 2016Review to come
October 18, 2016
I have been waiting for this book. You know when you wait and wait (but not too long) for a story and the anticipation gets to be so much that you hope it lives up to you expectations? Yeah, that was me with this one. And it totally lived up to what I was hoping for and then some.
This story is so beautifully written. We get to see Cassie's story after Rat and college... trying to move on with her life but not quite doing it. Her struggles with self doubt and self loathing are moving and heart breaking. This journey definitely is a hard one to swallow. It's real and raw. It's full of ups and downs... more downs than ups.
Finding your path and healing is never an easy journey. However, it's a little bit easier when you are able to surround yourself with those who truly want to see you shine. Cassie has that with Spencer and now Grady. He is strong and knows of loss and pain. He understands that healing will take time. His character is definitely one of my favorites to date.
I couldn't seem to put this story down. I wanted happiness for Cassie like I have never wanted for a character. I wanted to see her fall so I could watch her climb her way up to the top. With a little help from the one and only Aubrey... you remember her right? I was so glad to see her cameo in this story.
This is a definite must read. If you haven't read Under the Influence yet, you definitely should... then move on to this. This technically could be read as a standalone, but you won't get the full experience by reading it without having read Under the Influence first.
This story is so beautifully written. We get to see Cassie's story after Rat and college... trying to move on with her life but not quite doing it. Her struggles with self doubt and self loathing are moving and heart breaking. This journey definitely is a hard one to swallow. It's real and raw. It's full of ups and downs... more downs than ups.
Finding your path and healing is never an easy journey. However, it's a little bit easier when you are able to surround yourself with those who truly want to see you shine. Cassie has that with Spencer and now Grady. He is strong and knows of loss and pain. He understands that healing will take time. His character is definitely one of my favorites to date.
I couldn't seem to put this story down. I wanted happiness for Cassie like I have never wanted for a character. I wanted to see her fall so I could watch her climb her way up to the top. With a little help from the one and only Aubrey... you remember her right? I was so glad to see her cameo in this story.
This is a definite must read. If you haven't read Under the Influence yet, you definitely should... then move on to this. This technically could be read as a standalone, but you won't get the full experience by reading it without having read Under the Influence first.
May 29, 2015
How do I tell you the awesomeness of this book? I have loved every single one of LB Simmons books and with each one I keep thinking this is her best yet. Under The Influence demonstrates a shift in her writing though—all for the better of course. I felt like I could see into Simmons’ soul with this story and I want to stay there for a while.
Under The Influence was a raw read. I enjoyed how it wasn’t all S’mores and a campfire. There was gritty emotion that with every page turn I could actually feel my heart twinge with sadness, regret, hope, pure love and fear. Dalton’s and Spencer’s love while possibly unbreakable was not perfect. But it was full of need, an intrinsic connection that not even they could decipher and it was always devoted, beyond physical or emotional.
Through the story line and character development, there was never a question of this love. And while reading Under The Influence, you held onto as much hope as Dalton and Spencer did.
LB Simmons’ beautiful and poignant descriptions were absolutely poetic. I could rip any page (but I wouldn’t—I can’t do that to books) out of this book and frame the words for all their beauty.
UNDER THE INFLUENCE s definitely a book that should be on your TBR—although I don’t think it should stay there long. Get to reading.
D 5/5
Under The Influence was a raw read. I enjoyed how it wasn’t all S’mores and a campfire. There was gritty emotion that with every page turn I could actually feel my heart twinge with sadness, regret, hope, pure love and fear. Dalton’s and Spencer’s love while possibly unbreakable was not perfect. But it was full of need, an intrinsic connection that not even they could decipher and it was always devoted, beyond physical or emotional.
Through the story line and character development, there was never a question of this love. And while reading Under The Influence, you held onto as much hope as Dalton and Spencer did.
LB Simmons’ beautiful and poignant descriptions were absolutely poetic. I could rip any page (but I wouldn’t—I can’t do that to books) out of this book and frame the words for all their beauty.
UNDER THE INFLUENCE s definitely a book that should be on your TBR—although I don’t think it should stay there long. Get to reading.
D 5/5
August 9, 2015
4 Sunset Stars
Oh how I love to be under the influence of LB Simmons. She knows how to suck you in to the story. How to get your buy in and then....BAM. Take you under.
Spencer met Dalton when he came to her home as a foster child. They would watch sunsets together. They grew up together. And then it turned into something else. Something Spencer wanted.
You're the one. I can tell.
Dalton knows he is not good enough for Spencer. He has made some bad choices. All he cares about is protecting Spencer from those choices. He will do whatever he needs to to keep her safe from the people around him. Even if it kills him.
The one thing I'v ever wanted in my life is being offered to me by the one person who means the most to me in this world and I'm about to walk away.
When Dalton and Spencer find each other again, she is not so quick to trust. She remembers all to well the feeling of losing Spencer.
I was broken too Dalton. Shattered.
Under the Influence is the story of love settling into your bones. Love that you want to suppress. You know you need to ignore for your own sanity but will not be denied.
A second chance is a gift that many, many people long to receive, yet sadly, few are given.
Oh how I love to be under the influence of LB Simmons. She knows how to suck you in to the story. How to get your buy in and then....BAM. Take you under.
Spencer met Dalton when he came to her home as a foster child. They would watch sunsets together. They grew up together. And then it turned into something else. Something Spencer wanted.
You're the one. I can tell.
Dalton knows he is not good enough for Spencer. He has made some bad choices. All he cares about is protecting Spencer from those choices. He will do whatever he needs to to keep her safe from the people around him. Even if it kills him.
The one thing I'v ever wanted in my life is being offered to me by the one person who means the most to me in this world and I'm about to walk away.
When Dalton and Spencer find each other again, she is not so quick to trust. She remembers all to well the feeling of losing Spencer.
I was broken too Dalton. Shattered.
Under the Influence is the story of love settling into your bones. Love that you want to suppress. You know you need to ignore for your own sanity but will not be denied.
A second chance is a gift that many, many people long to receive, yet sadly, few are given.
May 8, 2015
Oh gosh, I don't know where to start! This book was amazing! I was purposely reading really slow just so that it didn't end! I was on edge from beginning to end! I really don't think I have any nails left!!
The unconditional love of Dalton & Spencer is something so special that it's hard to even imagine! Dalton is stuck in a life that he was thrown into. A life that feed him for years & because of this there's only one way out. Dalton & Spencer's love is electric! Until her birthday, when he did what he had to do to protect her! MY. Heart. Shattered.
This book is so freaken intense! Dalton makes the ultimate sacrifice for someone you love but is it enough? Can he protect Spencer from the devil? Words can not describe how raw & intense this unconventional love story is! It's a true testament of how we should love someone even though most of the book was NOT pretty or easy to watch unfold! It did leave me with hope that love will prevail & that the devil will not win! How much would YOU sacrifice for the one You love?
The unconditional love of Dalton & Spencer is something so special that it's hard to even imagine! Dalton is stuck in a life that he was thrown into. A life that feed him for years & because of this there's only one way out. Dalton & Spencer's love is electric! Until her birthday, when he did what he had to do to protect her! MY. Heart. Shattered.
This book is so freaken intense! Dalton makes the ultimate sacrifice for someone you love but is it enough? Can he protect Spencer from the devil? Words can not describe how raw & intense this unconventional love story is! It's a true testament of how we should love someone even though most of the book was NOT pretty or easy to watch unfold! It did leave me with hope that love will prevail & that the devil will not win! How much would YOU sacrifice for the one You love?
May 4, 2015
LB has done it again! Man she is truly a weaver of deep emotional amazing stories. I fell in love with LBs writing years ago and she has only gotten better and better if that was possible.
This book had me so sucked in I thought my family was going to disown me. Once I enter Spencer and Dalton’s world, I was there to the end. Their story is so heartfelt that I didn’t want it to end. Every character in this book was real and added some much to the story. Penny was by far my favorite side character. She was a young girl who was wise beyond her years and she really brought out something amazing in Dalton that I fell in love with him with her. She also brought on the first set of tears (yes I said first set).
One thing that I loved about this book was how the author handled the span of time. It was so original and made the book for me. It was pure perfection!
This book is definitely on my top 2015 list!!! 5 stars all the way! Grab this book, let yourself get taking away in a beautiful love story!
This book had me so sucked in I thought my family was going to disown me. Once I enter Spencer and Dalton’s world, I was there to the end. Their story is so heartfelt that I didn’t want it to end. Every character in this book was real and added some much to the story. Penny was by far my favorite side character. She was a young girl who was wise beyond her years and she really brought out something amazing in Dalton that I fell in love with him with her. She also brought on the first set of tears (yes I said first set).
One thing that I loved about this book was how the author handled the span of time. It was so original and made the book for me. It was pure perfection!
This book is definitely on my top 2015 list!!! 5 stars all the way! Grab this book, let yourself get taking away in a beautiful love story!
May 14, 2015
I was lucky enough to receive an ARC from the amazing author herself & I could not feel more blessed to be able to read this before it hits the public. Spencer & Dalton's journey sent me spinning in many directions & pulled emotions so intense I often had to stop and reflect. this is without a doubt one of the most beautiful and amazing stories of two souls destined to be together, this book is sure to stay with me forever. beautifully & artfully written, L.B. Simmons takes my breath away yet again.
May 23, 2015
Every single book I have read by this amazing author has completely blown me away and I expected this book to do the same. Under The Influence not only did that, but also completely destroyed me.
Packed full of passionate love, suspense, friendship, loss and just the right amount of drama, it created the perfect recipe for head over heals FLOVE. L.B. Simmons not only imagined an amazing story but managed to draw the reader in so fiercely that there was no escaping until the last page.
I will be waiting with bated breath for her next book! ~ Kelly, 4.5 stars
Packed full of passionate love, suspense, friendship, loss and just the right amount of drama, it created the perfect recipe for head over heals FLOVE. L.B. Simmons not only imagined an amazing story but managed to draw the reader in so fiercely that there was no escaping until the last page.
I will be waiting with bated breath for her next book! ~ Kelly, 4.5 stars
May 17, 2015
* A review copy was provided by the author for the Blog Tour *
~ 5 Stars ~
Whenever I pick up a book by L.B. Simmons, I know I am in for a treat. Under the Influence was no different. This story was unique and captivating. Her books always grab you right from the start and don't let go until the very end.
" A friend is one that knows you as you are, understands where you have been, accepts what you have become, and still, gently allows you to grow."….. William Shakespeare
Under the Influence is about a friendship and love that spans over many years and put to the test. Can a love, that is felt to the depths of your soul, endure separation and distance, to come out stronger in the end ? That is a question that can only be answered by reading this book. This story is also about second chances, and it shows that everyone deserves one, but so few rarely are given one. This is also a story of redemption and turning your life around to be a better person. This book does touch on the serious subject of abuse and abandonment. It was tough reading about Dalton and Spencer's past.
" A second chance is a gift that many, many people long to receive , yet sadly, few are given."
This book is so hard to review without giving spoilers, so that is why I am keeping it vague. This book was filled with so much emotion, between not only Spencer and Dalton, but all the characters. I laughed, I cried, I swooned and I yelled while reading this book. My heart and emotions were all over the place during this story, but that is what makes a book a 5 star read for me. This story is told in Dual POV and I think that was perfect. It helped connect to the characters better and it also made you feel what the characters were feeling.
Dalton and Spencer were amazing characters. Both broken by a horrible upbringing, but both equally strong and wanting to be the best they can be. They have known each other for years and have been the best of friends, when they finally decide to take the next step and take it further. These two characters were just meant for each other. It's hard to explain without giving things away, but they just worked :)
" That's us, Spence. All separate pieces of you and me that fit together to make a whole."….. Dalton
This book is broken into 3 parts. Part 1 is the heartwarming and swoony part of this story, Part 2 is the part that broke my heart many times (I loved this part because it was made up of notes between Spencer and Dalton) and Part 3 will put you heart back together. I loved the way this story ended. Everything came full circle and I was left with a smile on my face and a new couple in my heart.
So if you are looking for a friends to lovers story, that is about friendship, love, and redemption, then look NO further and READ THIS BOOK!!!! If you are a fan of L.B. Simmons you will fall in love with this book as well!!! This is definitely a MUST READ STORY!!!!
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~ 5 Stars ~
Whenever I pick up a book by L.B. Simmons, I know I am in for a treat. Under the Influence was no different. This story was unique and captivating. Her books always grab you right from the start and don't let go until the very end.
" A friend is one that knows you as you are, understands where you have been, accepts what you have become, and still, gently allows you to grow."….. William Shakespeare
Under the Influence is about a friendship and love that spans over many years and put to the test. Can a love, that is felt to the depths of your soul, endure separation and distance, to come out stronger in the end ? That is a question that can only be answered by reading this book. This story is also about second chances, and it shows that everyone deserves one, but so few rarely are given one. This is also a story of redemption and turning your life around to be a better person. This book does touch on the serious subject of abuse and abandonment. It was tough reading about Dalton and Spencer's past.
" A second chance is a gift that many, many people long to receive , yet sadly, few are given."
This book is so hard to review without giving spoilers, so that is why I am keeping it vague. This book was filled with so much emotion, between not only Spencer and Dalton, but all the characters. I laughed, I cried, I swooned and I yelled while reading this book. My heart and emotions were all over the place during this story, but that is what makes a book a 5 star read for me. This story is told in Dual POV and I think that was perfect. It helped connect to the characters better and it also made you feel what the characters were feeling.
Dalton and Spencer were amazing characters. Both broken by a horrible upbringing, but both equally strong and wanting to be the best they can be. They have known each other for years and have been the best of friends, when they finally decide to take the next step and take it further. These two characters were just meant for each other. It's hard to explain without giving things away, but they just worked :)
" That's us, Spence. All separate pieces of you and me that fit together to make a whole."….. Dalton
This book is broken into 3 parts. Part 1 is the heartwarming and swoony part of this story, Part 2 is the part that broke my heart many times (I loved this part because it was made up of notes between Spencer and Dalton) and Part 3 will put you heart back together. I loved the way this story ended. Everything came full circle and I was left with a smile on my face and a new couple in my heart.
So if you are looking for a friends to lovers story, that is about friendship, love, and redemption, then look NO further and READ THIS BOOK!!!! If you are a fan of L.B. Simmons you will fall in love with this book as well!!! This is definitely a MUST READ STORY!!!!
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December 8, 2015
YOU ARE COMMANDED to serve the herein Warrant of Arrest to seize and take into custody the accused person named below:
Name of Subject of Arrest: L.B. Simmons
And bring forth said person before this court the next business day following her arrest on the following charges:
ASSAULT on my emotions. Lord, this book had me going through all the feels. From making my heart hurt to giving me fire pants, the story of Dalton and Spencer was a roller-coaster from start to finish. The story follows Spence and Dalton from when she first meets the gruff boy with so much pain and anger in him on her doorstep and then moves onto him trying to keep the only good piece of himself, Spencer, away from the life he’s fallen into and onto the turning point that ultimately changes everything. The book is littered with feelings of passion, anger, guilt, tenderness and moments that were so romantic it broke my heart.
THEFT of my heart and mind. This book was so creatively written. I wish I could explain exactly what the author did, but that would just give away the plot. The tools she used to convey the story and heartbreak between these characters was just astounding. There was a period during this book that had me going from a slight sniffle to full on ugly crying as I began each new chapter.
SEXUAL ASSAULT. GAH!! The sexual tension, the angst, the passion! The build-up between them was delicious torture and I was just begging for them to cross the line. These characters’ chemistry was on fire. The sexy times were off the charts hot and at the same time impossibly romantic. I was panting my way through this.
AIDING AND ABETTING these characters in destroying me. I thought the plot was amazing and the pace was perfect. There was much happening in this story and I couldn’t put the book down. There are many twists in the story, some I saw coming and others I just didn’t expect at all. In some places I was shouting: “How dare she?!” The characters broke my heart over and over, with their deeds and their emotions but they also built me up again. I was a total mess after reading this.
All in all this was just a truly beautiful and passionate story about two childhood friends who came to mean so much more to each other. I absolutely recommend this book!
(ARC provided by author in exchange for an honest review)
Name of Subject of Arrest: L.B. Simmons
And bring forth said person before this court the next business day following her arrest on the following charges:
ASSAULT on my emotions. Lord, this book had me going through all the feels. From making my heart hurt to giving me fire pants, the story of Dalton and Spencer was a roller-coaster from start to finish. The story follows Spence and Dalton from when she first meets the gruff boy with so much pain and anger in him on her doorstep and then moves onto him trying to keep the only good piece of himself, Spencer, away from the life he’s fallen into and onto the turning point that ultimately changes everything. The book is littered with feelings of passion, anger, guilt, tenderness and moments that were so romantic it broke my heart.
THEFT of my heart and mind. This book was so creatively written. I wish I could explain exactly what the author did, but that would just give away the plot. The tools she used to convey the story and heartbreak between these characters was just astounding. There was a period during this book that had me going from a slight sniffle to full on ugly crying as I began each new chapter.
SEXUAL ASSAULT. GAH!! The sexual tension, the angst, the passion! The build-up between them was delicious torture and I was just begging for them to cross the line. These characters’ chemistry was on fire. The sexy times were off the charts hot and at the same time impossibly romantic. I was panting my way through this.
AIDING AND ABETTING these characters in destroying me. I thought the plot was amazing and the pace was perfect. There was much happening in this story and I couldn’t put the book down. There are many twists in the story, some I saw coming and others I just didn’t expect at all. In some places I was shouting: “How dare she?!” The characters broke my heart over and over, with their deeds and their emotions but they also built me up again. I was a total mess after reading this.
All in all this was just a truly beautiful and passionate story about two childhood friends who came to mean so much more to each other. I absolutely recommend this book!
(ARC provided by author in exchange for an honest review)
March 21, 2016
Some really sad things happened amongst the pages of this book, but some really beautiful things happened too. This one will tug at your heartstrings, but when all is said and done, it will make you smile also. These two young adults have had their fair share of heartache, but what they find with each other is the other half of their soul. Spencer and Dalton first start out as friends at a young age. Their relationship grows as the years go by. Neither one actually will admit how they feel. So, they settle for friendship. But, with one jealous moment, Dalton decides to take a chance on what he feels towards Spencer. And, much to his surprise she feels the same. The only thing that makes Dalton cautious about their new found relationship is what he does for a living and his criminal ties. He must, at all costs, keep Spencer safe! He seems to be keeping it all under wraps until that one fateful night that claims two close friends fatally. It's all blown to hell the night they celebrate Spencer's birthday, and they take their relationship to the next level.
Oh my word, this was one emotional battle! Two pasts filled with abuse. They protected and were loyal to each other. And, theirs was a love story built on honesty and trust. When that all is taken away, a part of this young couple's soul is severed. They're ripped away from each to save the very existence that they are living. It's tearful and painful to read. But, it had to be done. I started this book yesterday afternoon, and I just consumed every brilliant word that was written. I loved both main characters, their friends, and their families. And, the bad guys were really freakin' bad guys! I've had all of L.B Simmons' books on my iPad to read for awhile now, and I'm so glad that I took a chance on this amazing book of hers! I'll be sure to read all of her other books in the near future! An author not to overlooked...
And, to whoever designed that cover, it is simply gorgeous!
Oh my word, this was one emotional battle! Two pasts filled with abuse. They protected and were loyal to each other. And, theirs was a love story built on honesty and trust. When that all is taken away, a part of this young couple's soul is severed. They're ripped away from each to save the very existence that they are living. It's tearful and painful to read. But, it had to be done. I started this book yesterday afternoon, and I just consumed every brilliant word that was written. I loved both main characters, their friends, and their families. And, the bad guys were really freakin' bad guys! I've had all of L.B Simmons' books on my iPad to read for awhile now, and I'm so glad that I took a chance on this amazing book of hers! I'll be sure to read all of her other books in the near future! An author not to overlooked...
And, to whoever designed that cover, it is simply gorgeous!
May 29, 2015
10 Stars utterly Fantastic!!!!!
Wow, wow, wow, I am blown away by this book. First, let me start by saying that this is the first book I have ever read by L.B. Simmons and it will most definitely not be the last.... This book was beyond amazing....beyond 5 Stars for me that's for sure:)
Let me say that my love for both Dalton and Spencer is let's just say off the charts.... I absolutely LOVED BOTH of these characters with every fiber of my being. The love these 2 had for each other was just genuine and sincere and oh so heartfelt! My gosh, this book had me feeling every emotion from utter heartbreak to the most heartfelt feelings of pure love if that makes sense, lol!
This story literally had me on the edge of my seat for most of today because as much as I couldn't put it down, I was down right petrified of what was to happen as the story unfolded!
Oh PLEASE, PLEASE tell me we will get another book to catch up with this couple as well as Cassie and Grady:) For lack of giving anything away, this book is a MUST READ!!!!!
PS My only "complaint" is I wish there would have been an Epilogue!!!!!!!!!! I am an Epilogue person and I was a bit disappointed in that but all in all the book is fantastic and the Epilogue would have been the icing on the cake for me:)
Congrats to L.B. Simmons on a total Grand Slam! This book was pure genius, superb writing and storytelling made the whole experience a pleasure (well with the exception of wondering the heck would happen, lololol) and just a gem of a book!!!!! Awesome job!!!!!!!
Wow, wow, wow, I am blown away by this book. First, let me start by saying that this is the first book I have ever read by L.B. Simmons and it will most definitely not be the last.... This book was beyond amazing....beyond 5 Stars for me that's for sure:)
Let me say that my love for both Dalton and Spencer is let's just say off the charts.... I absolutely LOVED BOTH of these characters with every fiber of my being. The love these 2 had for each other was just genuine and sincere and oh so heartfelt! My gosh, this book had me feeling every emotion from utter heartbreak to the most heartfelt feelings of pure love if that makes sense, lol!
This story literally had me on the edge of my seat for most of today because as much as I couldn't put it down, I was down right petrified of what was to happen as the story unfolded!
Oh PLEASE, PLEASE tell me we will get another book to catch up with this couple as well as Cassie and Grady:) For lack of giving anything away, this book is a MUST READ!!!!!
PS My only "complaint" is I wish there would have been an Epilogue!!!!!!!!!! I am an Epilogue person and I was a bit disappointed in that but all in all the book is fantastic and the Epilogue would have been the icing on the cake for me:)
Congrats to L.B. Simmons on a total Grand Slam! This book was pure genius, superb writing and storytelling made the whole experience a pleasure (well with the exception of wondering the heck would happen, lololol) and just a gem of a book!!!!! Awesome job!!!!!!!
May 5, 2015
***5 EMOTIONAL STARS***
It's no secret that I absolutely LOVE LB Simmons. There's something about her stories that really speak to me. They're meaningful. They're important. And they're full of all the feels I love. This book was no exception. I laughed out loud (OMG Rat!), sobbed through the entire second part, and celebrated throughout part 3. I actually put my iPad down to CLAP (Oh, Liam...)! This is an amazing story, and I highly recommend you read it!
It's no secret that I absolutely LOVE LB Simmons. There's something about her stories that really speak to me. They're meaningful. They're important. And they're full of all the feels I love. This book was no exception. I laughed out loud (OMG Rat!), sobbed through the entire second part, and celebrated throughout part 3. I actually put my iPad down to CLAP (Oh, Liam...)! This is an amazing story, and I highly recommend you read it!
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