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Fairhope #1
The Trouble with Goodbye
One night can change everything…
Two years ago, Leigh Anne Davis shocked everyone in tiny Fairhope, Georgia when she broke up with her wealthy boyfriend to attend an Ivy League university a thousand miles away. At school, she finds a happiness and independence she’s never known.
Until one terrifying night takes it all away from her.
With no place else to go, Leigh Anne heads home to reclaim her old life. A life she worked so hard to escape. On the outside, she seems like the same girl everyone has always known. But deep inside, she’s hiding a terrible secret.
That’s when she meets Knox Warner, a troubled newcomer to Fairhope. His eyes have the same haunted look she sees every day in the mirror, and when she’s near him, the rest of the world fades away. But being with Knox would mean disappointing everyone all over again. If she wants to save what’s left of her old life, she has no choice but to say goodbye to him forever.
Only, the trouble with goodbye is that sometimes it’s about courage and sometimes it’s about fear. And sometimes you’re too broken to know the difference until it’s too late.
Two years ago, Leigh Anne Davis shocked everyone in tiny Fairhope, Georgia when she broke up with her wealthy boyfriend to attend an Ivy League university a thousand miles away. At school, she finds a happiness and independence she’s never known.
Until one terrifying night takes it all away from her.
With no place else to go, Leigh Anne heads home to reclaim her old life. A life she worked so hard to escape. On the outside, she seems like the same girl everyone has always known. But deep inside, she’s hiding a terrible secret.
That’s when she meets Knox Warner, a troubled newcomer to Fairhope. His eyes have the same haunted look she sees every day in the mirror, and when she’s near him, the rest of the world fades away. But being with Knox would mean disappointing everyone all over again. If she wants to save what’s left of her old life, she has no choice but to say goodbye to him forever.
Only, the trouble with goodbye is that sometimes it’s about courage and sometimes it’s about fear. And sometimes you’re too broken to know the difference until it’s too late.
330 pages, Paperback
First published May 19, 2013
798 people are currently reading
5635 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 481 reviews
May 4, 2016
¿Alguna vez se han preguntado cuantos clichés caben en 24 páginas? Más de los que me imaginaba, aparentemente.
1.- Página 7: Los ojos.
"It's his eyes that capture me.
They are the clearest, brightest blue I've ever seen."
2.- Página 7: El corrientazo.
"An electric jolt flashes through me. My arms break out in goose bumps, and have no idea whether it's from the shock of the accident or the feel of his hand against me. "
3.- Página 9: El pasado oscuro.
"Even now, after a year and a half, I still carry that fear with me, somewhere deep inside. "
4.- Página 16: I just met you, and this is crazy...
"I don't know what I'm expecting him to do, but somehow this stranger, this guardian angel, knows exactly what I need. "
5.- Página 24: La conexión.
"We shared something intense and I let him see me more vulnerable than anyone before. If ever. It's strange to see him just walk away without there being something more between us. "
Pueden encontrarlo gratis en Amazon, así que ¿quién se atreve a seguir leyendo y terminar el conteo? I challenge you!
1.- Página 7: Los ojos.
"It's his eyes that capture me.
They are the clearest, brightest blue I've ever seen."
2.- Página 7: El corrientazo.
"An electric jolt flashes through me. My arms break out in goose bumps, and have no idea whether it's from the shock of the accident or the feel of his hand against me. "
3.- Página 9: El pasado oscuro.
"Even now, after a year and a half, I still carry that fear with me, somewhere deep inside. "
4.- Página 16: I just met you, and this is crazy...
"I don't know what I'm expecting him to do, but somehow this stranger, this guardian angel, knows exactly what I need. "
5.- Página 24: La conexión.
"We shared something intense and I let him see me more vulnerable than anyone before. If ever. It's strange to see him just walk away without there being something more between us. "
Pueden encontrarlo gratis en Amazon, así que ¿quién se atreve a seguir leyendo y terminar el conteo? I challenge you!
June 9, 2013
The reason behind the 3 stars for this book is due less to dissatisfaction, than to it not standing above the rest. I enjoyed the story, I liked the characters, and the writing was good, I just didn't find it differentiated itself from the countless similar stories I've read in this genre.
Girl comes back from a terrible college semester, girl meets boy, girl and boy are obviously both broken, boy helps girl find her way out of her dark place. It didn't take long for me to put this whole story together and figure out what happened to Leigh Anne. I think this is done a little purposefully, though; how we're made to be aware of what happened before we're told explicitly. It does help to get us emotionally involved to some extent, making us immediately sympathetic towards our protagonist. Since we know what she's burdened with, this helps understand her character somewhat as well. Nonetheless, I found myself not especially connecting with her with any sort of emotional depth. Her situation, albeit extremely disheartening, didn't grasp me like I was hoping. It could be because it's a story I've read numerous times, but it could also be because Leigh Anne failed to let me in. The romance is also an aspect I neither loved nor hated. It wasn't exactly insta-love, but it did evolve into "I love yous" fairly quickly, not giving me a chance to feel it first.
Even though this plot is one I have read before, it's the kind of story you can read countless times and, since they all have different circumstances, still gets you enraptured in it. The Trouble With Goodbye was that kind of read for me. I got caught up in it pretty easily. It helped that this one was kept fun and sweet, giving us a reprieve from the darker toned books with equally hard topics. There were some minor things plot wise that annoyed me, however. The one most worthy of note is Leigh Anne's mother. I could not stand this woman whatsoever. She doesn't even deserve the title of "mother" with the disgusting way she acts in this story. Caring more about her image than what her daughter went through. Ugh! I know such cold motherly behavior does exist, but I had a hard time believing Leigh Anne's would be uncaring to such degree - not even coming through at the end at all. One thing it did offer is character growth on Leigh Anne's part, seeing as she has to unclaw herself from her dependence on her parents.
It seems like I mentioned more negatives than positives in this review, but really I did enjoy the book, I just don't have any comments in particular about it otherwise. It was a good book, it didn't blow me away due to 1) the flaws mentioned above and 2) not standing out from others I've read with this storyline. With that said, I can see those newer to the genre being easily captivated by this novel.
--
A copy was provided by the author for review.
For more of my reviews, visit my blog at Xpresso Reads
Girl comes back from a terrible college semester, girl meets boy, girl and boy are obviously both broken, boy helps girl find her way out of her dark place. It didn't take long for me to put this whole story together and figure out what happened to Leigh Anne. I think this is done a little purposefully, though; how we're made to be aware of what happened before we're told explicitly. It does help to get us emotionally involved to some extent, making us immediately sympathetic towards our protagonist. Since we know what she's burdened with, this helps understand her character somewhat as well. Nonetheless, I found myself not especially connecting with her with any sort of emotional depth. Her situation, albeit extremely disheartening, didn't grasp me like I was hoping. It could be because it's a story I've read numerous times, but it could also be because Leigh Anne failed to let me in. The romance is also an aspect I neither loved nor hated. It wasn't exactly insta-love, but it did evolve into "I love yous" fairly quickly, not giving me a chance to feel it first.
Even though this plot is one I have read before, it's the kind of story you can read countless times and, since they all have different circumstances, still gets you enraptured in it. The Trouble With Goodbye was that kind of read for me. I got caught up in it pretty easily. It helped that this one was kept fun and sweet, giving us a reprieve from the darker toned books with equally hard topics. There were some minor things plot wise that annoyed me, however. The one most worthy of note is Leigh Anne's mother. I could not stand this woman whatsoever. She doesn't even deserve the title of "mother" with the disgusting way she acts in this story. Caring more about her image than what her daughter went through. Ugh! I know such cold motherly behavior does exist, but I had a hard time believing Leigh Anne's would be uncaring to such degree - not even coming through at the end at all. One thing it did offer is character growth on Leigh Anne's part, seeing as she has to unclaw herself from her dependence on her parents.
It seems like I mentioned more negatives than positives in this review, but really I did enjoy the book, I just don't have any comments in particular about it otherwise. It was a good book, it didn't blow me away due to 1) the flaws mentioned above and 2) not standing out from others I've read with this storyline. With that said, I can see those newer to the genre being easily captivated by this novel.
--
A copy was provided by the author for review.
For more of my reviews, visit my blog at Xpresso Reads
Want to read
November 20, 2014
FREE today on Amazon US (11/19/2014)
BLURB:
One night can change everything…
Two years ago, Leigh Anne Davis shocked everyone in tiny Fairhope, Georgia when she broke up with her wealthy boyfriend to attend an Ivy League university a thousand miles away. At school, she finds a happiness and independence she’s never known.
Until one terrifying night takes it all away from her.
With no place else to go, Leigh Anne heads home to reclaim her old life. A life she worked so hard to escape. On the outside, she seems like the same girl everyone has always known. But deep inside, she’s hiding a terrible secret.
That’s when she meets Knox Warner, a troubled newcomer to Fairhope. His eyes have the same haunted look she sees every day in the mirror, and when she’s near him, the rest of the world fades away. But being with Knox would mean disappointing everyone all over again. If she wants to save what’s left of her old life, she has no choice but to say goodbye to him forever.
Only, the trouble with goodbye is that sometimes it’s about courage and sometimes it’s about fear. And sometimes you’re too broken to know the difference until it’s too late.
http://www.amazon.com/Trouble-Goodbye...
June 9, 2013
3.75 stars.
I thought this book was a sweet story with a heavy real subject.
Leigh Anne is forced to come home after a terrible event in her life. Once she is there she starts to question many things like: who she is, who really know her, who supports her, who loves her for her, etc... During this time she realizes that she doesn't want to be part of the superficial world but doesn't know how to survive otherwise.
Insert Knox who is another troubled soul. Together their brokenness draws them to one another and with this they can heal and become whole again. To everyone else they are wrong for one another but to them they are the perfect fit.
"...I'm less broken when I'm with you."
For Leigh Anne to heal she has to make some tough choices. Does she come forward and risk her family, and her love? Or does she keep quiet and save everyone else expect herself?
"Whatever happened to you, I wish I could take it all away."
In this tale it saddens me the lack of support Leigh Anne gets from her family.
There should be only support for someone you love being a survivor of rape. There should be no judgement. In this story her family is more worried about how this will effect them instead of supporting Leigh Anne.
"When you're ready to start supporting me instead of judging me, let me know, okay?"
The bottom line is.....No MEANS NO!
It is hard to stick up for yourself when by standing up you are going against the system and by doing this you have to re-play the event over and over again.
But if she can go through this then hopefully justice can be served, future victims can be saved or it can allow others to know that they are not alone. For Leigh Anne she made the right decision for her which in turn helped others as well.
Instead, the truth has given me a freedom I never dreamed of. ...
Through thick and thin true love never fails us. It helps to heal, it helps to feel, it's there to support and to let you know that you are loved no matter what else. Knox was supportive and loving and didn't let his past define him. He truly loved Leigh Anne for who she was no matter what. Without this love Leigh Anne might have made different choices.
Great story about a harsh reality, second chances, hope, true friendship, support and love.
You can also find me on:
Live Read and Breathe Facebook
Live Read and Breathe Twitter
For more of my reviews:
Live Read and Breathe
I thought this book was a sweet story with a heavy real subject.
Leigh Anne is forced to come home after a terrible event in her life. Once she is there she starts to question many things like: who she is, who really know her, who supports her, who loves her for her, etc... During this time she realizes that she doesn't want to be part of the superficial world but doesn't know how to survive otherwise.
Insert Knox who is another troubled soul. Together their brokenness draws them to one another and with this they can heal and become whole again. To everyone else they are wrong for one another but to them they are the perfect fit.
"...I'm less broken when I'm with you."
For Leigh Anne to heal she has to make some tough choices. Does she come forward and risk her family, and her love? Or does she keep quiet and save everyone else expect herself?
"Whatever happened to you, I wish I could take it all away."
In this tale it saddens me the lack of support Leigh Anne gets from her family.
There should be only support for someone you love being a survivor of rape. There should be no judgement. In this story her family is more worried about how this will effect them instead of supporting Leigh Anne.
"When you're ready to start supporting me instead of judging me, let me know, okay?"
The bottom line is.....No MEANS NO!
It is hard to stick up for yourself when by standing up you are going against the system and by doing this you have to re-play the event over and over again.
But if she can go through this then hopefully justice can be served, future victims can be saved or it can allow others to know that they are not alone. For Leigh Anne she made the right decision for her which in turn helped others as well.
Instead, the truth has given me a freedom I never dreamed of. ...
Through thick and thin true love never fails us. It helps to heal, it helps to feel, it's there to support and to let you know that you are loved no matter what else. Knox was supportive and loving and didn't let his past define him. He truly loved Leigh Anne for who she was no matter what. Without this love Leigh Anne might have made different choices.
Great story about a harsh reality, second chances, hope, true friendship, support and love.
You can also find me on:
Live Read and Breathe Facebook
Live Read and Breathe Twitter
For more of my reviews:
Live Read and Breathe
September 10, 2017
I'm reading books that I have purchased long ago on Kindle and hadn't read yet.
In this series I had read the second and third book and had skipped this, but I just like to read and I recommend read the series in order to understand the events that are all interconnected.
In this series I had read the second and third book and had skipped this, but I just like to read and I recommend read the series in order to understand the events that are all interconnected.
November 26, 2014
The problem with this book was that it takes the subject matter of almost every NA book ever, and then does nothing interesting or different with it. I don't usually balk at predictability in this genre because that's part of why you read romance, you know you're going to get a HEA. But there's expected and then there's uninspired, and for me this story fell firmly in the latter camp.
I don't want to be spoilery, but if you've ever read YA or NA then the fact that Leigh Anne has suffered a traumatic experience while at college will be no surprise. I'm not trying to make light of what she goes through - it is a common occurrence and her reaction and brokenness are understandable, but everything in this story fits into its predesigned box, and Leigh Anne's pain has virtually no weight. Combine that with this being told exclusively from her POV - it's all her hemming and hawing and being indecisive and then making stupid decisions and being afraid and spineless. She's not interesting. At all. She has no redeeming qualities. At all. I guess she's really pretty and that's enough to make our hero, Knox, fall for her. Other than that, I had no idea what he liked about her. He, at least, was a little mysterious and heroic and kind.
Anyway, this is pretty standard fare, but slightly below average to me because of the extreme navel gazing and boring characters. And I really didn't care about anyone else enough to read more in the series.
I don't want to be spoilery, but if you've ever read YA or NA then the fact that Leigh Anne has suffered a traumatic experience while at college will be no surprise. I'm not trying to make light of what she goes through - it is a common occurrence and her reaction and brokenness are understandable, but everything in this story fits into its predesigned box, and Leigh Anne's pain has virtually no weight. Combine that with this being told exclusively from her POV - it's all her hemming and hawing and being indecisive and then making stupid decisions and being afraid and spineless. She's not interesting. At all. She has no redeeming qualities. At all. I guess she's really pretty and that's enough to make our hero, Knox, fall for her. Other than that, I had no idea what he liked about her. He, at least, was a little mysterious and heroic and kind.
Anyway, this is pretty standard fare, but slightly below average to me because of the extreme navel gazing and boring characters. And I really didn't care about anyone else enough to read more in the series.
June 5, 2013
3.5 Stars
Sarra Cannon makes a fine debut into the New Adult/Contemporary Romance genre with The Trouble With Goodbye! If you want to be able to sit down and read, in almost one sitting, an easy story with a little bit of meat to it, then this book just might be for you.
Leigh Anne Davis comes home to Fairhope, Georgia, with a very serious trauma still haunting her. She doesn’t fit in with her old friends any longer, and she isn’t sure just who she is after everything that’s happened. She’s running, more than anything. Running from college in Boston. Running from confronting and standing up to her parents. She’s running from life. Then, along comes Knox Warner, equally as haunted, but for very different reasons. He’s running a bit, himself. But, he can’t seem to run from Leigh Anne. In fact, he’d like to get to know her. However, Leigh Anne is convinced that she’s no good to anyone at the moment.
Leigh Anne and Knox make an interesting pair. Their pain and sadness drive this story, and yet, for me, there wasn’t quite the depth of character and emotion that I would loved to have seen. These two have a lovely chemistry together, though, and they do draw the reader in and convince you to care for them, for what happens to them, individually and as a couple. I do truly feel that the story and the characters could have benefited from more time and exploration.
There is one character who is excepted from needing more time and exploration, and that is Leigh Anne’s mother. I wanted to punch that woman straight in the face for some of the things she said and did to to her daughter, particularly as it related to the trauma of Leigh Anne’s past!! Her father was no better, standing passively by and letting it all happen. These two evoked the most emotion in me throughout this entire story, and none of it was good!
The love scenes here are fade-to-black, and, normally, I have absolutely no problem with that. In The Trouble With Goodbye, I almost think some level of detail might have provided that extra piece that was missing just a bit between the characters, as well as helping to establish more of an emotional depth and connection between myself, as the reader, and the characters.
Personally, I REALLY enjoyed the ending! I’m pretty sure there was a fist-pump or ten involved!! Seriously, the ending did give me a reason to cheer, and it was also very sweet and touching at moments.
Two quotes in particular sum up this story so well for me:
- and -
Amen!
**ARC provided by the author in exchange for an honest review**
For more reviews, please visit Sinfully Sexy Book Reviews or visit us on Facebook.
Sarra Cannon makes a fine debut into the New Adult/Contemporary Romance genre with The Trouble With Goodbye! If you want to be able to sit down and read, in almost one sitting, an easy story with a little bit of meat to it, then this book just might be for you.
Leigh Anne Davis comes home to Fairhope, Georgia, with a very serious trauma still haunting her. She doesn’t fit in with her old friends any longer, and she isn’t sure just who she is after everything that’s happened. She’s running, more than anything. Running from college in Boston. Running from confronting and standing up to her parents. She’s running from life. Then, along comes Knox Warner, equally as haunted, but for very different reasons. He’s running a bit, himself. But, he can’t seem to run from Leigh Anne. In fact, he’d like to get to know her. However, Leigh Anne is convinced that she’s no good to anyone at the moment.
“Why would I need protection from you?” I take another step back and shrug, “Because I’m like that windshield the other night,” I say. “All broken pieces and sharp edges.”
Leigh Anne and Knox make an interesting pair. Their pain and sadness drive this story, and yet, for me, there wasn’t quite the depth of character and emotion that I would loved to have seen. These two have a lovely chemistry together, though, and they do draw the reader in and convince you to care for them, for what happens to them, individually and as a couple. I do truly feel that the story and the characters could have benefited from more time and exploration.
There is one character who is excepted from needing more time and exploration, and that is Leigh Anne’s mother. I wanted to punch that woman straight in the face for some of the things she said and did to to her daughter, particularly as it related to the trauma of Leigh Anne’s past!! Her father was no better, standing passively by and letting it all happen. These two evoked the most emotion in me throughout this entire story, and none of it was good!
The love scenes here are fade-to-black, and, normally, I have absolutely no problem with that. In The Trouble With Goodbye, I almost think some level of detail might have provided that extra piece that was missing just a bit between the characters, as well as helping to establish more of an emotional depth and connection between myself, as the reader, and the characters.
Personally, I REALLY enjoyed the ending! I’m pretty sure there was a fist-pump or ten involved!! Seriously, the ending did give me a reason to cheer, and it was also very sweet and touching at moments.
Two quotes in particular sum up this story so well for me:
Knox looks deep into my eyes. “You just tell your truth. Your experience,” he says. “There’s more power in that than you realize, Leigh Anne. You are strong. You can do this.”
- and -
I want to claim this space for myself. I want to create my own tranquil space where I can just sit and think about what it is that I expect of myself. What do I really want out of my life? What do I want to be? What do I want to accomplish? My whole life, people have saddled me with their expectations. Their rules. My parents, my teachers, my boyfriends, my schools. Even my best friends all expected something specific from me at some time or another. And I let them. I let their fear and their needs be my compass, always guiding my path. But not anymore. This place is mine. And I just threw away my compass.
Amen!
**ARC provided by the author in exchange for an honest review**
For more reviews, please visit Sinfully Sexy Book Reviews or visit us on Facebook.
July 30, 2013
I just finished this book (literally, moments ago) and now I am just like... Holy Hell. 
I honestly didn't realize how much I was going to love this book. Love! I have not loved a book like this since Easy by Tammara Webber. This book completely swept me away. And I don't say that lightly. I don't give out five stars for just anything. This book completely earned each and every one of them.
First, Leigh Anne. God, Leigh Anne is so relatable. I didn't grow up like she did, but that didn't matter, because I completely understood her and her desire to make her own way in the world and be her own person. I could tell that going back home brought back a side of her that was not as bold or independent, but I loved that she didn't want to be that way. She chose to be feisty and stubborn and stick by what she believes in.
And Knox. Ohmygoodness. I have never really understood this whole "book-boyfriends" thing until now. What do you get when you mix kinda-a-bad-boy plus actual-good-guy plus super smoking hot? The sweet, kind, understanding gentleman that is Knox. He was wonderful and amazing and selfless. Even though he loved Leigh Anne, he wanted her to make the right choice for her, even if that meant they couldn't be together! I can't even... He was just perfectly swoon-worthy.
I really enjoyed the entire cast of characters in this book. Leigh Anne's old and new friends I found I loved, especially Penny (super excited for the sequel about Penny!) and Jenna. Leigh Anne's mom was a perfect little twist of annoying, superficial society lady that I loved to hate, if that makes any sense. If she were my mother, I'm not sure I would have as much patience as Leigh Anne, that's for damn sure.
And in the mix of all of this wonderfulness is the dark, heart-wrenchingly sad event driving the story. Not very many books (or movies/TV shows) are able to portray something as awful as this in such a way. I don't even know how to describe what "way" this is, only that it was right. I completely admired Leigh Anne's choices and when she finally chose her path, I was holding my breath right along with her. This book and her actions were inspirational and beautiful.
As my first from this author, the only thing I have to say to Sarra Cannon is this:
It was amazing and I loved it and will probably reread it a million times. Thank you.
** I was given this book in exchange for an honest review. **
I honestly didn't realize how much I was going to love this book. Love! I have not loved a book like this since Easy by Tammara Webber. This book completely swept me away. And I don't say that lightly. I don't give out five stars for just anything. This book completely earned each and every one of them.
First, Leigh Anne. God, Leigh Anne is so relatable. I didn't grow up like she did, but that didn't matter, because I completely understood her and her desire to make her own way in the world and be her own person. I could tell that going back home brought back a side of her that was not as bold or independent, but I loved that she didn't want to be that way. She chose to be feisty and stubborn and stick by what she believes in.
And Knox. Ohmygoodness. I have never really understood this whole "book-boyfriends" thing until now. What do you get when you mix kinda-a-bad-boy plus actual-good-guy plus super smoking hot? The sweet, kind, understanding gentleman that is Knox. He was wonderful and amazing and selfless. Even though he loved Leigh Anne, he wanted her to make the right choice for her, even if that meant they couldn't be together! I can't even... He was just perfectly swoon-worthy.
I really enjoyed the entire cast of characters in this book. Leigh Anne's old and new friends I found I loved, especially Penny (super excited for the sequel about Penny!) and Jenna. Leigh Anne's mom was a perfect little twist of annoying, superficial society lady that I loved to hate, if that makes any sense. If she were my mother, I'm not sure I would have as much patience as Leigh Anne, that's for damn sure.
And in the mix of all of this wonderfulness is the dark, heart-wrenchingly sad event driving the story. Not very many books (or movies/TV shows) are able to portray something as awful as this in such a way. I don't even know how to describe what "way" this is, only that it was right. I completely admired Leigh Anne's choices and when she finally chose her path, I was holding my breath right along with her. This book and her actions were inspirational and beautiful.
As my first from this author, the only thing I have to say to Sarra Cannon is this:
It was amazing and I loved it and will probably reread it a million times. Thank you.
** I was given this book in exchange for an honest review. **
April 21, 2015
Cute story. Just nothing memorable, I'll probably forget everything about this book within a few weeks.
Want to read
November 30, 2020🎁 FREE on Amazon today (4/16/2019)! 🎁
August 1, 2013
* I received a copy of this book from the author for an honest review*
This was a great book. It was the first book I've ever read from this author and I would definitely read more of her work. I really like her writing style.
The subject matter in the storyline was very deep. I loved how Leigh Anne started out as a fake, "robot" trying to keep her family's reputation in good order and not let anyone see her true, broken self BUT THEN blossomed into a strong person that conquered her fears. I felt really bad for her & all that she endured on her own. Besides her roommate, she had no one to help her stand up for herself until she met Knox. I loved the way she evolved and took back her life.
Knox was so super sweet, strong and was the perfect compliment to Leigh Anne. He was exactly what Leigh Anne needed to heal, but as we read on we also find out how much he needed her. The strength that they gave each other made the storyline amazing! A great read!
This was a great book. It was the first book I've ever read from this author and I would definitely read more of her work. I really like her writing style.
The subject matter in the storyline was very deep. I loved how Leigh Anne started out as a fake, "robot" trying to keep her family's reputation in good order and not let anyone see her true, broken self BUT THEN blossomed into a strong person that conquered her fears. I felt really bad for her & all that she endured on her own. Besides her roommate, she had no one to help her stand up for herself until she met Knox. I loved the way she evolved and took back her life.
Knox was so super sweet, strong and was the perfect compliment to Leigh Anne. He was exactly what Leigh Anne needed to heal, but as we read on we also find out how much he needed her. The strength that they gave each other made the storyline amazing! A great read!
June 10, 2013
A great story that promises nothing but ends up delivering everything. Love story, parental struggles and tragedy. Made me smile, laugh and cry. That’s what I call a five star read.
To say that this book deals with an important topic does not give it the credit it deserves. Many books shy away from talking about everyday issues that we all come across because they want to keep things light and easy to read. Sara Cannon delves right in to sexual assault and the consequences that can come from running away in life. With two lovable main characters portrayed by Leigh-Anne and Knox, it is almost impossible not to love everything about this book. This book deals with Leigh-Anne’s struggle to find her own way in a town who thinks they know her, with parents who think they can control her and a secret so large it could make anyone say goodbye…
To say that this book deals with an important topic does not give it the credit it deserves. Many books shy away from talking about everyday issues that we all come across because they want to keep things light and easy to read. Sara Cannon delves right in to sexual assault and the consequences that can come from running away in life. With two lovable main characters portrayed by Leigh-Anne and Knox, it is almost impossible not to love everything about this book. This book deals with Leigh-Anne’s struggle to find her own way in a town who thinks they know her, with parents who think they can control her and a secret so large it could make anyone say goodbye…
November 21, 2016
It's hard to say goodbye to a good story!
I was pleasantly surprised by how much I liked this book. Nice, quick read but still deep enough to pull me in and entice me. Wasn't expecting anything, it was just sitting in my Kindle unread and I picked it on a whim and I'm so glad I did. I liked the development of their relationship and I liked how things progressed slower than in most books though it was a tad predictable. I liked this author style very much and look forward to reading more of her books. Great find :)
I was pleasantly surprised by how much I liked this book. Nice, quick read but still deep enough to pull me in and entice me. Wasn't expecting anything, it was just sitting in my Kindle unread and I picked it on a whim and I'm so glad I did. I liked the development of their relationship and I liked how things progressed slower than in most books though it was a tad predictable. I liked this author style very much and look forward to reading more of her books. Great find :)
January 9, 2024
I got this book for free and it shows
September 6, 2013
*Received a copy from the author in exchange for an honest review*
"…we're all somewhat the sum of our experiences, you know? But each individual event can only define us if we let it. If you don't want this to define you, then don't let it." -Jenna
This quote pretty much says it all. We all are the product of many life experiences and events that have both scarred and enlightened us in their own way. Whether they be good or bad experiences, the end result is all on us. We decide how we let it control and define our lives. This book was such a beautiful story about finding the strength to pick up the broken pieces of our lives and put them back together. For Leigh Anne, the event that changed her life forever and left her broken was being date raped. Rape isn't an easy subject to read but don't let that stop you from getting this book because the author talks about it without going into detail of what occurred to Leigh Anne. We get to experience the impact that this crime has on the lives of its victims by seeing the aftermath through Leigh Anne's eyes.
"…maybe what I've been doing wrong this whole time is chasing my past and hating myself for not being that girl anymore. Maybe what I should do instead is learn how to embrace who I've become." -Leigh Anne
My favorite part in the book was definitely when Leigh Anne decides to take control of her live. I loved how she slowly starts to realize that although she'll never be the girl she once was, that doesn't mean that she can never have the live she's always wanted. Despite having important people in her life go out of their way to silence her about what happened to her that fateful night for their own benefit, she finally decides that its about time she stands up for herself. To make her own decisions without having others influence them; to be true to herself.
" 'I love you,' he says. I feel his words all the way down to the deepest part of my heart. 'I love you too'." -Leigh Anne & Knox
With the help of Knox, a boy who is also damaged due to his own life experiences, she finds the courage to speak out despite the fear of what might be the outcome for doing so. He helps her believe in herself again and makes her feel like her she matters; that her voice matters. Because of her decision , a few other victims find the courage to come forward as well and the perpetrator is one step closer to getting what he deserves.
This book will definitely touch your heart and will take you on an emotional roller coaster ride as you follow Leigh Anne through her process of healing, taking back control of her life and finding that voice that had been silenced for a very long time. Through her eyes we see that moving forward after going through something tragic like Leigh Anne may seem impossible but with the help of those around you who love and care about you, anything is possible.
"…we're all somewhat the sum of our experiences, you know? But each individual event can only define us if we let it. If you don't want this to define you, then don't let it." -Jenna
This quote pretty much says it all. We all are the product of many life experiences and events that have both scarred and enlightened us in their own way. Whether they be good or bad experiences, the end result is all on us. We decide how we let it control and define our lives. This book was such a beautiful story about finding the strength to pick up the broken pieces of our lives and put them back together. For Leigh Anne, the event that changed her life forever and left her broken was being date raped. Rape isn't an easy subject to read but don't let that stop you from getting this book because the author talks about it without going into detail of what occurred to Leigh Anne. We get to experience the impact that this crime has on the lives of its victims by seeing the aftermath through Leigh Anne's eyes.
"…maybe what I've been doing wrong this whole time is chasing my past and hating myself for not being that girl anymore. Maybe what I should do instead is learn how to embrace who I've become." -Leigh Anne
My favorite part in the book was definitely when Leigh Anne decides to take control of her live. I loved how she slowly starts to realize that although she'll never be the girl she once was, that doesn't mean that she can never have the live she's always wanted. Despite having important people in her life go out of their way to silence her about what happened to her that fateful night for their own benefit, she finally decides that its about time she stands up for herself. To make her own decisions without having others influence them; to be true to herself.
" 'I love you,' he says. I feel his words all the way down to the deepest part of my heart. 'I love you too'." -Leigh Anne & Knox
With the help of Knox, a boy who is also damaged due to his own life experiences, she finds the courage to speak out despite the fear of what might be the outcome for doing so. He helps her believe in herself again and makes her feel like her she matters; that her voice matters. Because of her decision , a few other victims find the courage to come forward as well and the perpetrator is one step closer to getting what he deserves.
This book will definitely touch your heart and will take you on an emotional roller coaster ride as you follow Leigh Anne through her process of healing, taking back control of her life and finding that voice that had been silenced for a very long time. Through her eyes we see that moving forward after going through something tragic like Leigh Anne may seem impossible but with the help of those around you who love and care about you, anything is possible.
June 4, 2013
Review originally posted on The Page Turners
BLOG STOP:
This book was about secrets and facing them, instead of turning away because it will still be buried inside you. Sarra did an awesome job creating up the story of Leigh Anne and her secrets.
We get introduced to Leigh Anne, she is witty, a pretty normal college girl. She'd just came back from Boston for the summer. She has problems with her family, especially her mum. I felt that her family really pushes her so far that she's scared to push back. Leigh Anne was really likeable, I could relate to her in some ways. Like the fact that she has such a load in her, she needs help and support from her family, but they're not giving it to her. Instead, they're pushing her much further away, making her do and be someone she doesn't want to be. I could totally relate to Leigh Anne in so many ways.
Of course, everyone wants to know about the love interest, Knox Warner (hehe). He's not the bad-boy we all normally read, he's the boy that is known as the 'freak' in town, he was rumoured to have been in jail for doing drugs AND assaulting someone physically. But really, he's the exact opposite. Knox is charming, he's HOT, and he understand Leigh Anne. He's not the impatient type, he listens and give Leigh Anne time. And I found that very admirable because not many men can pull of being patient, sometimes, their rope just snap and they just become really impatient, but Knox wasn't like that.
I love how Sarra builds up the characters in here. The characters were understandable (good way and bad way), I understood every characters. Even though some were just completely and utterly selfish, I understood their motions and emotions. Like Leigh Anne's mum, she cares about nothing but herself and her reputation. She doesn't understand what her only daughter needed and wanted, she just hoped that her daughter would be silent about everything and just follow the rules.
This was why I love Sarra's writing so much, I could see the characters from the description that she created, I could feel the emotions that the characters felt through her words. It was just all so real.
I love this book, it was such an awesome read and I could not stay away from the computer screen (I think I might need glasses.....shh!).
BLOG STOP:
This book was about secrets and facing them, instead of turning away because it will still be buried inside you. Sarra did an awesome job creating up the story of Leigh Anne and her secrets.
We get introduced to Leigh Anne, she is witty, a pretty normal college girl. She'd just came back from Boston for the summer. She has problems with her family, especially her mum. I felt that her family really pushes her so far that she's scared to push back. Leigh Anne was really likeable, I could relate to her in some ways. Like the fact that she has such a load in her, she needs help and support from her family, but they're not giving it to her. Instead, they're pushing her much further away, making her do and be someone she doesn't want to be. I could totally relate to Leigh Anne in so many ways.
Of course, everyone wants to know about the love interest, Knox Warner (hehe). He's not the bad-boy we all normally read, he's the boy that is known as the 'freak' in town, he was rumoured to have been in jail for doing drugs AND assaulting someone physically. But really, he's the exact opposite. Knox is charming, he's HOT, and he understand Leigh Anne. He's not the impatient type, he listens and give Leigh Anne time. And I found that very admirable because not many men can pull of being patient, sometimes, their rope just snap and they just become really impatient, but Knox wasn't like that.
I love how Sarra builds up the characters in here. The characters were understandable (good way and bad way), I understood every characters. Even though some were just completely and utterly selfish, I understood their motions and emotions. Like Leigh Anne's mum, she cares about nothing but herself and her reputation. She doesn't understand what her only daughter needed and wanted, she just hoped that her daughter would be silent about everything and just follow the rules.
This was why I love Sarra's writing so much, I could see the characters from the description that she created, I could feel the emotions that the characters felt through her words. It was just all so real.
I love this book, it was such an awesome read and I could not stay away from the computer screen (I think I might need glasses.....shh!).
May 21, 2013
By Momma on May 21, 2013
TheTrouble-with-goodbye
It's no big secret that Sarra Cannon's y/a paranormal romance series Peachville High Demons is one of Momma's Favorites. When Sarra sent me the ARC for review (OK, I may have groveled a bit while asking to review it) I was a little nervous because I've not read a lot from the relatively new genre New Adult, yet I knew that surely I would enjoy the book because it's Sarra's work. Boy did I.
I have had the pleasure of watching Sarra grow as an author from her first book to the last in the series. I wasn't prepared for the incredible leap to greatness she made in The Trouble With Goodbye. The subject matter, while sensitive is handled beautifully and isn't just a gratuitous knock against women in general and the all too familiar moniker of many current popular books, movies and TV shows of how emotional and weak women are.
The Trouble with Goodbye is a wonderful tribute to all of us, all the people who are "broken". There are few among us who have not experienced some sort of tragedy in our life that has chipped away at us, rendering us at least a little shattered inside. Sarra addresses this issue. Not just that we aren't all perfect or clean, but that we are in fact the sum of our experiences and what we choose to do with that equation should be what defines us, not the tragedy or experience itself.
Holding fast to my policy of no spoiler reviews I will not give away any of the story. I will tell you that the characters are incredibly believable and well formed. The development of the story and the relationships between all of the characters is spot on. You know who these folks are, you feel for them lest I say you ache for them.
Warning, I did cry for the entire last quarter of the book because of how emotionally invested I was in Leigh Anne, as well as Knox. I will also mention that I'm shedding a few tears right now remembering and feeling how emotionally moved I am by this story.
New York Times take notice, you'll be adding this one to the "list" soon!
I recommend that EVERYONE read this book!
What does Momma Think?
The Trouble With Goodbye (A Fairhope New Adult Romance) by Sarra Cannon 5 cookies and a glass of milk!
TheTrouble-with-goodbye
It's no big secret that Sarra Cannon's y/a paranormal romance series Peachville High Demons is one of Momma's Favorites. When Sarra sent me the ARC for review (OK, I may have groveled a bit while asking to review it) I was a little nervous because I've not read a lot from the relatively new genre New Adult, yet I knew that surely I would enjoy the book because it's Sarra's work. Boy did I.
I have had the pleasure of watching Sarra grow as an author from her first book to the last in the series. I wasn't prepared for the incredible leap to greatness she made in The Trouble With Goodbye. The subject matter, while sensitive is handled beautifully and isn't just a gratuitous knock against women in general and the all too familiar moniker of many current popular books, movies and TV shows of how emotional and weak women are.
The Trouble with Goodbye is a wonderful tribute to all of us, all the people who are "broken". There are few among us who have not experienced some sort of tragedy in our life that has chipped away at us, rendering us at least a little shattered inside. Sarra addresses this issue. Not just that we aren't all perfect or clean, but that we are in fact the sum of our experiences and what we choose to do with that equation should be what defines us, not the tragedy or experience itself.
Holding fast to my policy of no spoiler reviews I will not give away any of the story. I will tell you that the characters are incredibly believable and well formed. The development of the story and the relationships between all of the characters is spot on. You know who these folks are, you feel for them lest I say you ache for them.
Warning, I did cry for the entire last quarter of the book because of how emotionally invested I was in Leigh Anne, as well as Knox. I will also mention that I'm shedding a few tears right now remembering and feeling how emotionally moved I am by this story.
New York Times take notice, you'll be adding this one to the "list" soon!
I recommend that EVERYONE read this book!
What does Momma Think?
The Trouble With Goodbye (A Fairhope New Adult Romance) by Sarra Cannon 5 cookies and a glass of milk!
June 4, 2013
This is the first book by Cannon that I have read but I couldn't help it, it seems I am a sucker for the New Adult genre lately and I just can't get enough of it. And while this may have been my first book by her, it won't be my last. I, in fact, own several of her books and now I am wondering why it took me so very long to get to any of them. I really enjoyed this. Her writing style and the characters that she created.
Leigh Anne and Knox were very loveable and very real feeling. Neither were perfect and each had secrets in their past that haunted them in different ways. Both broken and both looking for that thing, that person, that dream that would help them become whole again, or at least as close to whole as they could possibly ever be again.
They couldn't have come from two more different backgrounds and families and yet they were so similar and both searching for the same thing and finding it in each other.
This really was a great story about sticking up for yourself, making some really hard decisions about what is right and what is wrong and not always choosing the easy way out. It isn't always easy doing the right thing, even when the right thing may hurt others and Leigh Anne was a pretty strong character. She had her moments of weakness but don't we all? I wasn't sure if she would do what was right but then again, she was always surprising me. Breaking away from her parents and trying to make a life on her own when everyone had such high, sometimes unrealistic expectations for her. She learned to stand on her own and I was proud of her for that.
Knox was a pretty amazing character himself. I really loved the compassion and love that he showed a complete stranger and I loved watching him open up and grow right along with Leigh Anne as they explored what the future held for them, if there was even a future for them together as friends, as lovers and as companions.
Cannon did a great job exploring some pretty hard topics and making all of Leigh Anne's choice very realistic and believable.
Leigh Anne and Knox were very loveable and very real feeling. Neither were perfect and each had secrets in their past that haunted them in different ways. Both broken and both looking for that thing, that person, that dream that would help them become whole again, or at least as close to whole as they could possibly ever be again.
They couldn't have come from two more different backgrounds and families and yet they were so similar and both searching for the same thing and finding it in each other.
This really was a great story about sticking up for yourself, making some really hard decisions about what is right and what is wrong and not always choosing the easy way out. It isn't always easy doing the right thing, even when the right thing may hurt others and Leigh Anne was a pretty strong character. She had her moments of weakness but don't we all? I wasn't sure if she would do what was right but then again, she was always surprising me. Breaking away from her parents and trying to make a life on her own when everyone had such high, sometimes unrealistic expectations for her. She learned to stand on her own and I was proud of her for that.
Knox was a pretty amazing character himself. I really loved the compassion and love that he showed a complete stranger and I loved watching him open up and grow right along with Leigh Anne as they explored what the future held for them, if there was even a future for them together as friends, as lovers and as companions.
Cannon did a great job exploring some pretty hard topics and making all of Leigh Anne's choice very realistic and believable.
June 8, 2013
Oh Wow this story is just beautiful! It was so very well written the words just seemed to flow before my eyes, but it's powerful and breathtaking message is anything but. It's sad and heartbreaking what Leigh has been thru starting from the moment she left home breaking up with her wealthy beau and going to a college as far away as she could. Then losing a very special member of her family right after. And then as if she hasn't had enough to endure in such a short period of time tragedy strikes her again and she is just ripped apart from the core almost. Coming home was the very last thing she wanted to do but she feels she has no choice and so here is where our story opens with Leigh making her way home when she has a car accident, bless her heart, wrapping her car around a tree and wouldn't you know her cell phone has no signal because she is out in the boonies? How much this poor girl goes thru is pure heartbreaking! Her family especially her mother doesn't know how to give her the support she needs and they are always pushing her to be somebody she is not comfortable being or doing things she really doesn't want to. I can relate to her on some level. I guess that is why the story is such an emotional one for me because it seems sometimes nobody gets you or can understand what you need emotionally. Not even the ones closest to you can help you at times.
There is a new love interest, a young man who stops to assist her when she wrecks her car but he has his own problems and on top of those has become the town outcast while she was away. She really begins to have a "thing" for him but she can't open up to him like it should be in a relationship even after he shows his interest in her when he opens up his story to her. He is so sweet and I just wanted to squeeze him and smother him with huge hugs!
There is a new love interest, a young man who stops to assist her when she wrecks her car but he has his own problems and on top of those has become the town outcast while she was away. She really begins to have a "thing" for him but she can't open up to him like it should be in a relationship even after he shows his interest in her when he opens up his story to her. He is so sweet and I just wanted to squeeze him and smother him with huge hugs!
June 22, 2013
This book was part of a blog tour I received an ARC copy and based my review on content only.
This book starts out with Leigh Anne coming home after being away for two years, on the way home she runs her car into a tree and Knox drives up and saves her. For the first time in a long time Leigh Anne doesn't cringe away from a man and while this initially intrigues her she puts it out of her mind. Leigh Anne came home to try and get past her bad memories and feel safe again, she didn't count on Knox Warner and the feeling he would invoke. This was a really good book, from the minute I started reading it Leigh Anne’s emotional struggles sucked me in and had me wanting the girl to have a happing ending. The emotional turmoil that Leigh Anne struggles with on a daily basis because of what she went through and the way she was treated afterwards is disheartening. While this book is short, you can see Leigh Anne getting stronger and really learning how to deal with what happened. Knox the love interest has secrets and a past of his own, but he gave the heroine what she needed. He wasn't the bad boy; he was really a nice guy who was labeled unfairly. The Trouble With Goodbye is a great fast read that deals with emotional issues without leaving you with a terrible book hangover.
This book starts out with Leigh Anne coming home after being away for two years, on the way home she runs her car into a tree and Knox drives up and saves her. For the first time in a long time Leigh Anne doesn't cringe away from a man and while this initially intrigues her she puts it out of her mind. Leigh Anne came home to try and get past her bad memories and feel safe again, she didn't count on Knox Warner and the feeling he would invoke. This was a really good book, from the minute I started reading it Leigh Anne’s emotional struggles sucked me in and had me wanting the girl to have a happing ending. The emotional turmoil that Leigh Anne struggles with on a daily basis because of what she went through and the way she was treated afterwards is disheartening. While this book is short, you can see Leigh Anne getting stronger and really learning how to deal with what happened. Knox the love interest has secrets and a past of his own, but he gave the heroine what she needed. He wasn't the bad boy; he was really a nice guy who was labeled unfairly. The Trouble With Goodbye is a great fast read that deals with emotional issues without leaving you with a terrible book hangover.
October 24, 2017
Maybe I am too old for this book, but I found the characters alarmingly naive and infantile. True to their age perhaps, but in no way engaging as a result.
I liked that she was a rape victim and dealing with the pressures and challenges of that, but it was alluded to from the beginning of the book and, well, I think we got it then. It was not necessary to bang on alluding to it over and over again. WE GOT IT. Give us the details or shut up about it.
I liked that she stood up for herself and her boyfriend, but the extreme HEA situation? 'oh and by the way, he has 10 million from his asshole dad' so booyah to mummy and daddy. what? His dad made in surplus of $30 million?! That was unrealistic and unnecessary on so many levels. If she really liked the lad for himself, she wouldn't have cared about the money. The fact that it needed mentioning made it seem like she did care. ugh
It is still cringey to me to read about 20 year olds in stupid love. Get a grip and grow up.
(yep, definitely too old for this shit)
I liked that she was a rape victim and dealing with the pressures and challenges of that, but it was alluded to from the beginning of the book and, well, I think we got it then. It was not necessary to bang on alluding to it over and over again. WE GOT IT. Give us the details or shut up about it.
I liked that she stood up for herself and her boyfriend, but the extreme HEA situation? 'oh and by the way, he has 10 million from his asshole dad' so booyah to mummy and daddy. what? His dad made in surplus of $30 million?! That was unrealistic and unnecessary on so many levels. If she really liked the lad for himself, she wouldn't have cared about the money. The fact that it needed mentioning made it seem like she did care. ugh
It is still cringey to me to read about 20 year olds in stupid love. Get a grip and grow up.
(yep, definitely too old for this shit)
October 26, 2014
~~4 HEARTS~~
September 16, 2015
Arrghhhh......it was so good and cant wait to read the next one
December 22, 2015
Predictable. The heroine annoyed me. Not very deeply written.
December 24, 2018
Trigger alert for rape and parent controlling.
October 28, 2014
It was okay but I didn't love it....... Some parts were kinda dry and draggy
September 7, 2019
Didn't expect this one
I went into this fully expecting to dislike what I read and discarding it after reading the exerpt. That's a good 90% of my reading hobby these days as more and more of my favourite genre gets swallowed up by people who should never write and the questionably titled 'writers' who portray women in unflattering lights.
But I digress.
This wasn't a barn burner of a story, but it was engaging and relatable. I liked Leigh Anne, and even if she was a bit weak and placid when it came to her own voice she more than made up for her cowardice in the end. Given my own life experience I could totally relate to her situation, even if I disagreed with how she handled it. She allowed people who should have had her best interests in mind put their own first. People who ignored what she wanted or needed just so they could save face. Not cool.
Her mum was a real piece of work and I only wish Leigh Anne would have let her have it in a way that would have set the woman down on her own arse. But it was enough that she finally stood up for what was best for her and in doing so also chose the right man.
Knox was a sweetheart. He hadn't had the easiest time of it in the past, but he rose above all that and proved himself a strong and honourable man. And he was so devoted to Leigh Anne, wanting her to do whatever she felt was right for her - even if that meant he wasn't part of the equation. He was loyal and supportive, staying out of sight but still in the fringes just so she would know he was there. He was patient and didn't make her feel guilty while she worked through it all.
The story was emotional but there was very little angst between the couple themselves once Leigh Anne stopped pushing him back.
This is very slow-burn and focuses on the story rather than the heat level. They do some kissing and touching, but there is just one fade to black sex scene, so this isn't for anyone who prefers all the steamy filler. The romance is honest and easy, with a more natural progression and I appreciated that the two spent time learning about one another before things got physical.
I'm seriously picky these days. That's what comes from being tricked and burnt by so much lousy content garnering all the high marks. So, finding a book I really have no complaint with, one that had strong character development and relatable circumstances without a load of smut to fill pages, is a good thing.
No, this story and writer style won't appeal to everyone, but there is definitely an audience out there that will appreciate both. The book has a little something I like to call substance, and the writer actually has talent.
Imagine that.
I will happily seek out more by Ms. Cannon, because there will be more frustration in the search of reading material and finding a writer who simply deserves the title of 'author' keeps me from completely losing faith.
I went into this fully expecting to dislike what I read and discarding it after reading the exerpt. That's a good 90% of my reading hobby these days as more and more of my favourite genre gets swallowed up by people who should never write and the questionably titled 'writers' who portray women in unflattering lights.
But I digress.
This wasn't a barn burner of a story, but it was engaging and relatable. I liked Leigh Anne, and even if she was a bit weak and placid when it came to her own voice she more than made up for her cowardice in the end. Given my own life experience I could totally relate to her situation, even if I disagreed with how she handled it. She allowed people who should have had her best interests in mind put their own first. People who ignored what she wanted or needed just so they could save face. Not cool.
Her mum was a real piece of work and I only wish Leigh Anne would have let her have it in a way that would have set the woman down on her own arse. But it was enough that she finally stood up for what was best for her and in doing so also chose the right man.
Knox was a sweetheart. He hadn't had the easiest time of it in the past, but he rose above all that and proved himself a strong and honourable man. And he was so devoted to Leigh Anne, wanting her to do whatever she felt was right for her - even if that meant he wasn't part of the equation. He was loyal and supportive, staying out of sight but still in the fringes just so she would know he was there. He was patient and didn't make her feel guilty while she worked through it all.
The story was emotional but there was very little angst between the couple themselves once Leigh Anne stopped pushing him back.
This is very slow-burn and focuses on the story rather than the heat level. They do some kissing and touching, but there is just one fade to black sex scene, so this isn't for anyone who prefers all the steamy filler. The romance is honest and easy, with a more natural progression and I appreciated that the two spent time learning about one another before things got physical.
I'm seriously picky these days. That's what comes from being tricked and burnt by so much lousy content garnering all the high marks. So, finding a book I really have no complaint with, one that had strong character development and relatable circumstances without a load of smut to fill pages, is a good thing.
No, this story and writer style won't appeal to everyone, but there is definitely an audience out there that will appreciate both. The book has a little something I like to call substance, and the writer actually has talent.
Imagine that.
I will happily seek out more by Ms. Cannon, because there will be more frustration in the search of reading material and finding a writer who simply deserves the title of 'author' keeps me from completely losing faith.
February 15, 2023
Trigger Warning: This book contains a fair amount of detail about sexual assault and trauma. That being said, it's written in a realistic and appropriate way that even I, a survivor of similar experience, could read it with only moderate but tolerable discomfort (I'm ten years from that experience though - so keep in mind you could be triggered with the descriptions in the book if you've had experiences similar trauma.)
Additionally, this book uses the fade-to-black style of writing physical intimacy. (I suspect the rest of the series will too) so if you're looking for spice - this isn't it. BUT if you're looking for a realistic story with realistic drama - this is absolutely it.
All that being said, I really like the book. The characters were believable, even if not all of them likeable. The mom - she's a doozy but she reminds me of a person I know too well. I expected the ex boyfriend to be someone I hated more but he was generally redeemable and that was refreshing (I expect it's because a future book in the series might feature him again, but either way - he's still a believable character even if he ended up being different than I thought he would.)
The story is *REALLY* realistic. People bond over shared trauma and I think it's important to understand that. The author put these main characters together and gave them, although not a shared trauma, a similar level of it. And that's what real life looks like for many people.
Additionally, this book uses the fade-to-black style of writing physical intimacy. (I suspect the rest of the series will too) so if you're looking for spice - this isn't it. BUT if you're looking for a realistic story with realistic drama - this is absolutely it.
All that being said, I really like the book. The characters were believable, even if not all of them likeable. The mom - she's a doozy but she reminds me of a person I know too well. I expected the ex boyfriend to be someone I hated more but he was generally redeemable and that was refreshing (I expect it's because a future book in the series might feature him again, but either way - he's still a believable character even if he ended up being different than I thought he would.)
The story is *REALLY* realistic. People bond over shared trauma and I think it's important to understand that. The author put these main characters together and gave them, although not a shared trauma, a similar level of it. And that's what real life looks like for many people.
March 14, 2017
“The truth will set you free.”
Leigh Anne has a secret. She has a secret that she desperately wants to forget; bury deep and never think of it again.
Leigh Anne Davis grows up in the small town of Fairhope, Georgia. After her high school graduation, she goes to college in Boston. Two years later, after an unspeakable act, she returns home for the summer. Life in Fairhope has continued on and everything seems to be the same, but it wasn’t. Leigh Anne has moved in another direction.
On the outskirts of Fairhope, a deer suddenly appears in the road, causing her to swerve and leave the road; totaling her car. Being in a remote rural area, her cell phone won’t work and she begins to panic when a passing car stops to lend assistance.
Knox Warner, a relatively new resident in Fairhope, does what anyone in this situation would do and tries to help another in need. He has no idea who was in the car but when he gets Leigh Anne out and drives her home, he is smitten.
Preston Wright, her high school boyfriend, is still there and wants to revive their old relationship. He appears to have forgotten or completely ignores the fact that he had once cheated on her. Against her better judgment, her body still reacts to him.
This is a quaint romance. Clean and innocent, with a few unique twists, but on the whole, not out of the ordinary. A light, relatively short romance, should appeal to female readers but it doesn’t really light my fire.
Leigh Anne has a secret. She has a secret that she desperately wants to forget; bury deep and never think of it again.
Leigh Anne Davis grows up in the small town of Fairhope, Georgia. After her high school graduation, she goes to college in Boston. Two years later, after an unspeakable act, she returns home for the summer. Life in Fairhope has continued on and everything seems to be the same, but it wasn’t. Leigh Anne has moved in another direction.
On the outskirts of Fairhope, a deer suddenly appears in the road, causing her to swerve and leave the road; totaling her car. Being in a remote rural area, her cell phone won’t work and she begins to panic when a passing car stops to lend assistance.
Knox Warner, a relatively new resident in Fairhope, does what anyone in this situation would do and tries to help another in need. He has no idea who was in the car but when he gets Leigh Anne out and drives her home, he is smitten.
Preston Wright, her high school boyfriend, is still there and wants to revive their old relationship. He appears to have forgotten or completely ignores the fact that he had once cheated on her. Against her better judgment, her body still reacts to him.
This is a quaint romance. Clean and innocent, with a few unique twists, but on the whole, not out of the ordinary. A light, relatively short romance, should appeal to female readers but it doesn’t really light my fire.
June 11, 2018
Wow, this book was such a fast pace read it only took me two days to read. This was my first time reading anything by Sarra Cannon and I absolutely loved it. Leigh Anne and Knox story was everything I just love how understanding they both were about there past. How much they both open up to one another and trust each other.
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