What do you think?
Rate this book
The Sins That Bind Us
"Captivating, emotional...Geneva Lee's most stunning, powerful story yet." - Melanie Harlow, USA Today bestselling author
Faith wasn't given many choices in life. Not when she did her first line of cocaine. Not when she became a single mother. But she’s changed, and every decision she makes now is to protect herself and her son from her weaknesses – and her past.
Until Jude Mercer comes along and makes her question everything, even her own secrets.She knows that she shouldn’t fall for a man she met at an addict’s support group. Still, Faith finds herself letting the sensitive, secretive artist into her life. But the closer they become, the more she has to lose. Her sins can never be discovered unless Faith wants to destroy everything she’s built.
Because life handed Faith the broken bits of people and left her to construct her own world, and it's too fragile to take a chance on Jude.
An emotional, gut-wrenching romance based on the author’s deeply personal experience with the subject, The Sins That Bind Us will stay with you long after you read the final page. Perfect for fans of Colleen Hoover's It Ends With Us.
Faith wasn't given many choices in life. Not when she did her first line of cocaine. Not when she became a single mother. But she’s changed, and every decision she makes now is to protect herself and her son from her weaknesses – and her past.
Until Jude Mercer comes along and makes her question everything, even her own secrets.She knows that she shouldn’t fall for a man she met at an addict’s support group. Still, Faith finds herself letting the sensitive, secretive artist into her life. But the closer they become, the more she has to lose. Her sins can never be discovered unless Faith wants to destroy everything she’s built.
Because life handed Faith the broken bits of people and left her to construct her own world, and it's too fragile to take a chance on Jude.
An emotional, gut-wrenching romance based on the author’s deeply personal experience with the subject, The Sins That Bind Us will stay with you long after you read the final page. Perfect for fans of Colleen Hoover's It Ends With Us.
276 pages, Kindle Edition
First published March 15, 2016
581 people are currently reading
2821 people want to read
About the author
Geneva Lee
83 books4,729 followersGeneva Lee is the New York Times, USA Today, and international bestselling author of over thirty novels. Her bestselling Royals Saga has sold nearly four million copies worldwide. She's shamelessly addicted to recovering alpha males, headstrong heroines, and drop-your-jaw plot twists. People Magazine calls Geneva's books "convincing with fluid writing that's full of drama." When she isn't writing or reading, you might find her on another adventure with her real-life hero and their three kids.
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 373 reviews
March 20, 2016
4 Stars!!
To be honest what made me pick up this book was the title. I found it very intriguing and now that I’ve finished this gripping, well written tale I can totally say it’s very fitting and smartly chosen. 'The Sins that Bind Us' was my first read by Geneva Lee and for sure it won’t be my last. This story about love, forgiveness and learning to move on was powerful and touching and I'm sure many readers will relate with these characters in one way or another.
Faith didn’t have an easy life. Now she lives in Port Townsend, working for her best friend, Amie and trying to be a good mother for her deaf four years old son, Max. At a Narcotics Anonymous meeting in town she meets Jude, a mysterious man who seems to challenge her from the moment they meet. Since she had attended these meetings for four years she knows Jude is new in town. While their first encounter is not exactly a perfect one, she can’t deny he’s not only an intriguing man, but a gorgeous one as well. She doesn’t understand why she’s so badly attracted with him, but she knows Jude is dangerous for her heart.
As much as Faith tries to stay away from Jude, Jude is persistent and slowly he worms his way into her life. But Faith can’t forget everything about her past, what addiction really is and means for her and the fact that she met Jude at a NA meeting. After all, she doesn't know anything about him.
I must admit, I really expected this story to be more emotional. Don’t get me wrong it was a touching story, but I guess I thought it will be more heartbreaking or something. Geneva Lee delivered like I previously mentioned a very gripping tale. The story is told from Faith’s point-of-view, so her character was more developed IMO. Faith is broken, but she’s strong and determined to give her son a normal life. For years she tried to stay emotional detached. And she did a good job, but from the moment she meets Jude she knows he has the power to tear her walls down. Overall, I liked Faith and I liked how her family background is gradually revealed in ‘the past chapters’, but I have to say that were a couple of times when I found her character quite frustrating.
Jude was a great character to me. Maybe he will be a great mystery for some readers, but to me his story and his role in Faith’s life was predictable. However, I enjoyed their story. Our hero was pretty wonderful, both with Faith and her son, Max. He was sweet, caring and thoughtful and I loved him for not giving up of Faith. I loved how big his heart was and how lovely his relationship with Max was. He was simply great with him and their scenes together were heartwarming and so sweet.
Faith and Jude’s relationship was complicated to say the least. I liked how it progressed and I appreciated the fact that it wasn’t rushed. I can say without a doubt they were perfect for each other in every way. I loved the epilogue - very sweet and hopeful and IMO just perfect for this story.
Overall, this was a really great well developed and well written story!
To be honest what made me pick up this book was the title. I found it very intriguing and now that I’ve finished this gripping, well written tale I can totally say it’s very fitting and smartly chosen. 'The Sins that Bind Us' was my first read by Geneva Lee and for sure it won’t be my last. This story about love, forgiveness and learning to move on was powerful and touching and I'm sure many readers will relate with these characters in one way or another.
“Everybody is an addict; we all have our drug. It’s just that some of our poisons are more costly than others.”
Faith didn’t have an easy life. Now she lives in Port Townsend, working for her best friend, Amie and trying to be a good mother for her deaf four years old son, Max. At a Narcotics Anonymous meeting in town she meets Jude, a mysterious man who seems to challenge her from the moment they meet. Since she had attended these meetings for four years she knows Jude is new in town. While their first encounter is not exactly a perfect one, she can’t deny he’s not only an intriguing man, but a gorgeous one as well. She doesn’t understand why she’s so badly attracted with him, but she knows Jude is dangerous for her heart.
“…the connection between us is palpable—a tangible thread winding from him to me. I haven’t felt this way since…well, never. Not for a man.
Certainly, not for a stranger.”
As much as Faith tries to stay away from Jude, Jude is persistent and slowly he worms his way into her life. But Faith can’t forget everything about her past, what addiction really is and means for her and the fact that she met Jude at a NA meeting. After all, she doesn't know anything about him.
“I don’t dream or wish. I can’t risk it, and I can’t fly.”
“Then I’ll build you wings.”
I must admit, I really expected this story to be more emotional. Don’t get me wrong it was a touching story, but I guess I thought it will be more heartbreaking or something. Geneva Lee delivered like I previously mentioned a very gripping tale. The story is told from Faith’s point-of-view, so her character was more developed IMO. Faith is broken, but she’s strong and determined to give her son a normal life. For years she tried to stay emotional detached. And she did a good job, but from the moment she meets Jude she knows he has the power to tear her walls down. Overall, I liked Faith and I liked how her family background is gradually revealed in ‘the past chapters’, but I have to say that were a couple of times when I found her character quite frustrating.
“I thought he was the Devil before, but now I know he can't be. The Devil doesn’t offer solace, even when he lies. But an angel is too much to hope for, and I’d stopped believing in them long ago.”
Jude was a great character to me. Maybe he will be a great mystery for some readers, but to me his story and his role in Faith’s life was predictable. However, I enjoyed their story. Our hero was pretty wonderful, both with Faith and her son, Max. He was sweet, caring and thoughtful and I loved him for not giving up of Faith. I loved how big his heart was and how lovely his relationship with Max was. He was simply great with him and their scenes together were heartwarming and so sweet.
“I want you to know me, but it’s impossible. You might not like me when you get to know me,” I say softly.
“I might not like you then,” he agrees. “I suspect I might fall in love with you instead.”
Faith and Jude’s relationship was complicated to say the least. I liked how it progressed and I appreciated the fact that it wasn’t rushed. I can say without a doubt they were perfect for each other in every way. I loved the epilogue - very sweet and hopeful and IMO just perfect for this story.
Overall, this was a really great well developed and well written story!
March 21, 2016
4.5 STARS
”We don’t escape our addictions, they simply become our religion.”
Imagine my surprise as I sat reading this book from cover to cover this morning that it was a freebie with my KU subscription. I have been having the best luck with KU and have read so many wonderful stories so far this year. As for this story, I was completely captivated by the story line, the characters, and this author’s writing.
”Unforgiven sins don’t diminish, after all. You can’t magic them away with well-meaning words, because forgiveness is granted not taken.”
Faith Kane attends the weekly Narcotics Anonymous meetings, works, takes care of her young song and lives a very safe existence, until the mysterious and handsome Jude Mercer begins attending the meetings. There’s an allure every woman in town recognizes how tempting and yummy Jude is. Does Faith have a spot for Jude in her life? Can she trust a man she’s met at an NA meeting?
The story has scattered “Before” chapters which gifts a reader with Faith and her twin sister, Grace’s background. Faith and Jude’s romance was fantastically paced as Faith slowly trusts Jude and finds happiness.
”I want you to know me, but it’s impossible. You might not like me when you get to know me,” I say softly.”
“I might not like you then,” he agrees. “I suspect I might fall in love with you instead.”
The next step would be the revealing their truths one another if they have any hope of going forward with their relationship.
”He needs to know why Max is deaf and he needs to know the sins that have brought me to this tiny town. But most of all Jude needs to know what I’m running from.”
Jude and Faith’s pasts are revealed and the fall out is pretty major.
”The truth hasn’t set me free. Instead, it’s brought me to my own personal judgement day.”
The story and the couple’s journey is well developed though predictable. The secondary characters, Nana, Amie and little Max were all wonderful additions. Overall, this was very good read that had just the right amount of heartache, swoon, and love.
”I’ve always had faith, but I was saved by Grace.”
”We don’t escape our addictions, they simply become our religion.”
Imagine my surprise as I sat reading this book from cover to cover this morning that it was a freebie with my KU subscription. I have been having the best luck with KU and have read so many wonderful stories so far this year. As for this story, I was completely captivated by the story line, the characters, and this author’s writing.
”Unforgiven sins don’t diminish, after all. You can’t magic them away with well-meaning words, because forgiveness is granted not taken.”
Faith Kane attends the weekly Narcotics Anonymous meetings, works, takes care of her young song and lives a very safe existence, until the mysterious and handsome Jude Mercer begins attending the meetings. There’s an allure every woman in town recognizes how tempting and yummy Jude is. Does Faith have a spot for Jude in her life? Can she trust a man she’s met at an NA meeting?
The story has scattered “Before” chapters which gifts a reader with Faith and her twin sister, Grace’s background. Faith and Jude’s romance was fantastically paced as Faith slowly trusts Jude and finds happiness.
”I want you to know me, but it’s impossible. You might not like me when you get to know me,” I say softly.”
“I might not like you then,” he agrees. “I suspect I might fall in love with you instead.”
The next step would be the revealing their truths one another if they have any hope of going forward with their relationship.
”He needs to know why Max is deaf and he needs to know the sins that have brought me to this tiny town. But most of all Jude needs to know what I’m running from.”
Jude and Faith’s pasts are revealed and the fall out is pretty major.
”The truth hasn’t set me free. Instead, it’s brought me to my own personal judgement day.”
The story and the couple’s journey is well developed though predictable. The secondary characters, Nana, Amie and little Max were all wonderful additions. Overall, this was very good read that had just the right amount of heartache, swoon, and love.
”I’ve always had faith, but I was saved by Grace.”
April 19, 2021
Now I know we come here because we need to remember our sins. What do they teach you about history? When we forget the past, we’re doomed to repeat it. This isn’t support group, it’s our weekly penance. We’ll pay for the rest of our lives.
Note: Before I get into my review, I just want to say that I do think this is a book you should go into blind. But if you don’t care… read on! Either way, I won’t be revealing any spoilers.
I got this book about a year ago but had been avoiding it because it just looked so depressing and in some ways you could argue that it is. The Sins that Bind Us deals with themes of addiction, regret, and grief. But at the same time, it was also a beautifully poignant look into hope, second chances and learning to live again. For my first Geneva Lee book, I must say, I am in awe at her beautiful writing skills. She writes so eloquently, and it was a struggle trying not to highlight the entire book.
⥈ Plot ⥈
The heroine, Faith Kane, is a single mother of a four-year-old son, Max, who is deaf. She attends a weekly Narcotics Anonymous group to keep herself grounded. All she wants is stability for her and her son. One day, the hero, Jude Mercer, attends the NA meeting and Faith feels inexplicably drawn to him. As they draw closer to each other, their secrets and their sins are brought to light and we're brought on a messy journey that tests not only their relationship but also themselves.
⥈ Characters ⥈
I will leave the storms to the sea and find peace on solid ground.
Faith was such an amazing character. She always tries to be the best mom for her son and makes sure to regularly visit her grandmother who suffers from dementia. She lives with a lot of guilt and feels like she can’t forgive herself for her past. It was heartbreaking to see her live life on the safe side, but that's where Jude comes in!
Jude was everything Faith needed. He's hot, tattooed and such a good person. He's always listening intently and never misses an opportunity to help others. He's her knight in shining armor and almost too good to be true.
There were many other characters in this story that brought the book to life as well. Max was so adorable and definitely the highlight of this story! His innocence and the way he treated Jude like he was a hero, had me bawling my eyes out. Faith's best friend was also a great addition to the story, albeit, a little stereotypical.
⥈ Romance ⥈
When his lips seal over mine, I know I’ve found my forever.
At times, it just seemed impossible for Faith and Jude to be together because of the secrets they were holding onto, but these two sweethearts were destined to be! Faith and Jude were both addicts in different ways, so it was interesting to see how they navigated that and how they were able to lean on each other for support. And I think this was what made the story so realistic – their worries and their despairs were very real. Despite their painful journey, fate was definitely on their side.
I enjoyed Faith and Jude’s Chinese food dates and the way Jude relentlessly pursued her. I loved the epilogue so much - it was perfect for their love story.
⥈ Other thoughts / Criticisms ⥈
Unfortunately, there were some areas of the book that just didn’t work for me, but I feel like these were just personal issues. First of all, the romance happened a bit too quickly for my liking. It just didn’t make much sense to me that such a cautious person like Faith, would open herself up to Jude like that. But maybe that’s just the cynical side of me? Also, I also really wish that we had more of Max’s perspective. I understand why we don’t find out until much later, but his backstory felt very rushed through, so it was hard for me to connect with him. Lastly, (and I feel like I’m contradicting myself here…) as beautiful as the dialogue was, some of it did come off a tad cheesy.
Overall, The Sins that Bind Us was a heartfelt book with a lot of emotional depth and MANY twists and turns. It’s definitely not a light-hearted read but if you’re in the mood for a tear-jerker and a moving romance, this might be worth looking into! Trigger Warnings:
Rating: 3.75/5
March 18, 2019
Eines der besten New-Adult-Bücher seit langem! Ich kann echt nichts Negatives zu diesem Buch sagen und das passiert mir auch nicht allzu oft, grade in diesem Genre.
Zuerst einmal mochte ich unsere Protagonisten. Faith war eine starke, authentische Frau. Jude ein einfach nur perfekter Traummann. Aber beide hatten sie ihre Probleme. Aber so kommt es auch überhaupt erst dazu, dass sich die beiden kennenlernen.
Damit kommen wir auch schon zum nächsten Punkt der mir sehr gefallen hat: das Thema des Buches. Diese ganze Suchtproblematik ist soooo wichtig und die Autorin hat dieses heikle Thema wirklich perfekt verpackt und durchleuchtet. Allein ihr Vorwort zu diesem Thema ging mir schon echt an die Nieren.
Apropos an die Nieren gehen: das Buch hat mich echt fertig gemacht. Ich musste wirklich die ein oder andere Träne aus dem Augenwinkel wischen beim lesen. Das Buch war einfach nur von vorne bis hinten grandios! Eine absolute, uneingeschränkte Leseempfehlung von mir! :)
Zuerst einmal mochte ich unsere Protagonisten. Faith war eine starke, authentische Frau. Jude ein einfach nur perfekter Traummann. Aber beide hatten sie ihre Probleme. Aber so kommt es auch überhaupt erst dazu, dass sich die beiden kennenlernen.
Damit kommen wir auch schon zum nächsten Punkt der mir sehr gefallen hat: das Thema des Buches. Diese ganze Suchtproblematik ist soooo wichtig und die Autorin hat dieses heikle Thema wirklich perfekt verpackt und durchleuchtet. Allein ihr Vorwort zu diesem Thema ging mir schon echt an die Nieren.
Apropos an die Nieren gehen: das Buch hat mich echt fertig gemacht. Ich musste wirklich die ein oder andere Träne aus dem Augenwinkel wischen beim lesen. Das Buch war einfach nur von vorne bis hinten grandios! Eine absolute, uneingeschränkte Leseempfehlung von mir! :)
March 20, 2016
Genre: Contemporary Romance
Type: Standalone
POV: Shifting
Rating:
Faith Kane moved to a sleepy small town to start a new life with her young son. Leaving behind her troubled past, she was determine to get her life straight. With a house and a job, everything looked to be in the right direction, until she met someone with equally troubled past.
Jude Mercer saw something in Faith that he couldn’t let go of. He slowly wormed himself not only into her life, but also those around her. But both of them carried heavy burden of secrets from their past and when those secrets crossed it threatened to shatter their already fragile bond.
I picked up this book because I wanted something painful. It didn’t hurt me the way I hoped, but it still is a beautiful story that’s worth reading.
Jude always found a positive aspect in everything the world had to offer. I love how he brought lightness to the book. His character was pretty much a mystery until towards the end of the book.
Faith was a strong character for what she had to endure in the past. Her life journey was heartbreaking. The steps she took were admirable even if it wasn’t necessarily the “right thing to do”.
The secondary characters Aime, her best friends and Max, her son added lightness and heart to the story. They were both her strongest and pretty much only support system she had.
I think what made the story interesting is how not everything was what it seemed. There were bits and pieces that got me slightly confused in the beginning, which finally made sense when the time came.
The Sins That Bind Us is a story of two broken individuals with pasts that could bring them together and tear them apart.
For more reviews/reveals/giveaways visit:
Type: Standalone
POV: Shifting
Rating:
Faith Kane moved to a sleepy small town to start a new life with her young son. Leaving behind her troubled past, she was determine to get her life straight. With a house and a job, everything looked to be in the right direction, until she met someone with equally troubled past.
Jude Mercer saw something in Faith that he couldn’t let go of. He slowly wormed himself not only into her life, but also those around her. But both of them carried heavy burden of secrets from their past and when those secrets crossed it threatened to shatter their already fragile bond.
I picked up this book because I wanted something painful. It didn’t hurt me the way I hoped, but it still is a beautiful story that’s worth reading.
“One day you are going to find all the joy you’re capable of, and then you’re going to fly, Sunshine.”
Jude always found a positive aspect in everything the world had to offer. I love how he brought lightness to the book. His character was pretty much a mystery until towards the end of the book.
Faith was a strong character for what she had to endure in the past. Her life journey was heartbreaking. The steps she took were admirable even if it wasn’t necessarily the “right thing to do”.
“Acceptance is the first step, babe. You need to accept that your vagina has been out of commission for so long that archaeologists are planning digs there.”
The secondary characters Aime, her best friends and Max, her son added lightness and heart to the story. They were both her strongest and pretty much only support system she had.
I was broken when I met Jude. I still am, but with him I’m closer to whole.
I think what made the story interesting is how not everything was what it seemed. There were bits and pieces that got me slightly confused in the beginning, which finally made sense when the time came.
The Sins That Bind Us is a story of two broken individuals with pasts that could bring them together and tear them apart.
For more reviews/reveals/giveaways visit:
March 19, 2016
ARC provided by author in exchange for an honest review
“Something about you makes me want to confess my sins.”
The Sins That Bind Us by Geneva Lee is a gripping and consuming emotional tale of finding absolution, solace, love and acceptance. This book is unlike anything I have read from Geneva Lee as she gives her readers a glimpse of what it truly means to lose yourself to addiction.
“I want him to share his story so that I can understand the strange effect he has on me. Even now surrounded by a dozen other people, the connection between us is palpable— a tangible thread winding from him to me. I haven’t felt this way since… well, never. Not for a man. Certainly, not for a stranger.”
ADDICTION. Lets face it, we often associate addiction as something bad and something to be ashamed of. But if we really get to the real issue, it is a disease that can slowly consume and has the power to ruin you completely. And so in this rare and touching tale, Geneva Lee strips her readers raw to feel the vulnerability, sadness, and hopelessness each of her characters faces. She allows her readers to see that not every character is meant to be strong, beautiful, confident, and perfect. And sometimes, we all sin and for some people it is the sins that bind us.
“I keep my feet on the ground,” I remind him. This—allowing Jude to kiss me— is the wildest thing I have done in years. “I don’t dream or wish. I can’t risk it, and I can’t fly.”“Then I’ll build you wings.”
I honestly don’t want to go into depth with the story because this book is meant to be experienced. Experience the lost, the pain, the hurt, the sadness, the hopelessness, the fear, and the addiction. As humans, we all make mistakes and veer off course. And so Geneva Lee takes her readers on an emotional journey where light and hope can lead the way out of darkness and our past.
“I wait an eternity, and when his mouth finally finds mine, I know my life will never be the same.”
Geneva Lee did an amazing job with this story as she weaved truth, loss, happiness, love, second chances, and beauty all into this beautiful and gripping tale. This is by far one of my favorite books that I have read from Geneva Lee. I honestly felt her soul and heart being poured into the story of her characters.
Review can also be found on Four Chicks Flipping Pages: http://fourchicksflippingpages.weebly...Geneva Lee
“Something about you makes me want to confess my sins.”The Sins That Bind Us by Geneva Lee is a gripping and consuming emotional tale of finding absolution, solace, love and acceptance. This book is unlike anything I have read from Geneva Lee as she gives her readers a glimpse of what it truly means to lose yourself to addiction.
“I want him to share his story so that I can understand the strange effect he has on me. Even now surrounded by a dozen other people, the connection between us is palpable— a tangible thread winding from him to me. I haven’t felt this way since… well, never. Not for a man. Certainly, not for a stranger.”ADDICTION. Lets face it, we often associate addiction as something bad and something to be ashamed of. But if we really get to the real issue, it is a disease that can slowly consume and has the power to ruin you completely. And so in this rare and touching tale, Geneva Lee strips her readers raw to feel the vulnerability, sadness, and hopelessness each of her characters faces. She allows her readers to see that not every character is meant to be strong, beautiful, confident, and perfect. And sometimes, we all sin and for some people it is the sins that bind us.
“I keep my feet on the ground,” I remind him. This—allowing Jude to kiss me— is the wildest thing I have done in years. “I don’t dream or wish. I can’t risk it, and I can’t fly.”“Then I’ll build you wings.”I honestly don’t want to go into depth with the story because this book is meant to be experienced. Experience the lost, the pain, the hurt, the sadness, the hopelessness, the fear, and the addiction. As humans, we all make mistakes and veer off course. And so Geneva Lee takes her readers on an emotional journey where light and hope can lead the way out of darkness and our past.
“I wait an eternity, and when his mouth finally finds mine, I know my life will never be the same.”Geneva Lee did an amazing job with this story as she weaved truth, loss, happiness, love, second chances, and beauty all into this beautiful and gripping tale. This is by far one of my favorite books that I have read from Geneva Lee. I honestly felt her soul and heart being poured into the story of her characters.
Review can also be found on Four Chicks Flipping Pages: http://fourchicksflippingpages.weebly...Geneva Lee
April 5, 2016
3.5 - 3.75 Stars
March 22, 2016
This book was super personal for me so this will be a review full of personal feels.
ad·dic·tion- noun-
the state of being enslaved to a habit or practice or to something that is psychologically or physically habit-forming, as narcotics, to such an extent that its cessation causes severe trauma.
This beautiful 'love' story centers around ALL areas of addiction- I have personally had a life full of addiction -the addict, the loved ones, recovery, relapse and death. This book was amazing at capturing the many aspects of hurt and loss.
song "Breathe Me" by SIA
When an author writes of addiction they often skim over the topic or lighten it so that they don't darken the mood. Often times, if not personally familiar with true addiction, it is treated flippantly and very misunderstood. Ms. Lee has done a gut wrenching job of tearing it apart, breaking it into a myriad of fragments and given it words.
This book- is the painful truth. Ms. Lee put addiction out there for the world to see and hopefully 'understand' a tiny bit better. She has put words to the pain and suffering of the addict, the recovery AND the loved ones who so desperately love them. I have actually been able to re-think some of my own pre-conceived opinions.
So- this is the gut-wrenching/ over the top love story of Jude and Faith. They are two beautifully broken people living in the pain of their past. The writing is wonderful, tragic and really tough to endure at times. I felt every emotion, every memory, every feeling...yes it was personal for me, yes I relate on so many levels so yes I may be super biased.
As the story unfolds, I was frantic to get to the next page, praying for the HEA because this was not an easy love. Faith did not give into happiness easily after living a life of believing that it wasn't meant for her.
In the end, there were a few twist and turns that I sort of figured out ahead...but even so, it was fan-fucking-tastic.
So- yes it is a hard read emotionally, yes it comes with trigger warnings, yes it is about addiction and HELL YES you should read it.
Thank you Geneva Lee for telling your readers that recovery, for all involved, is not as simple as 'mind over matter'. There is a lifetime of pain and hurt left in addictions dreadful wake, and it takes super strength, lifetime devotion and LOVE to make it work!
ad·dic·tion- noun-
the state of being enslaved to a habit or practice or to something that is psychologically or physically habit-forming, as narcotics, to such an extent that its cessation causes severe trauma.
This beautiful 'love' story centers around ALL areas of addiction- I have personally had a life full of addiction -the addict, the loved ones, recovery, relapse and death. This book was amazing at capturing the many aspects of hurt and loss.
song "Breathe Me" by SIA
When an author writes of addiction they often skim over the topic or lighten it so that they don't darken the mood. Often times, if not personally familiar with true addiction, it is treated flippantly and very misunderstood. Ms. Lee has done a gut wrenching job of tearing it apart, breaking it into a myriad of fragments and given it words.
This book- is the painful truth. Ms. Lee put addiction out there for the world to see and hopefully 'understand' a tiny bit better. She has put words to the pain and suffering of the addict, the recovery AND the loved ones who so desperately love them. I have actually been able to re-think some of my own pre-conceived opinions.
So- this is the gut-wrenching/ over the top love story of Jude and Faith. They are two beautifully broken people living in the pain of their past. The writing is wonderful, tragic and really tough to endure at times. I felt every emotion, every memory, every feeling...yes it was personal for me, yes I relate on so many levels so yes I may be super biased.
As the story unfolds, I was frantic to get to the next page, praying for the HEA because this was not an easy love. Faith did not give into happiness easily after living a life of believing that it wasn't meant for her.
In the end, there were a few twist and turns that I sort of figured out ahead...but even so, it was fan-fucking-tastic.
So- yes it is a hard read emotionally, yes it comes with trigger warnings, yes it is about addiction and HELL YES you should read it.
Thank you Geneva Lee for telling your readers that recovery, for all involved, is not as simple as 'mind over matter'. There is a lifetime of pain and hurt left in addictions dreadful wake, and it takes super strength, lifetime devotion and LOVE to make it work!
April 2, 2017
Holy s***. Das Buch ist ein Meisterwerk. Ich hätte nach der Royal Saga niemals mehr damit gerechnet, dass Geneva Lee mich so umhauen würde, aber sie hat es geschafft. Die Geschichte ist nicht nur wahnsinnig gut geschrieben, sonder beinhaltet auch ein so wichtiges Thema. Ich liebe die Charaktere, vor allem Jude (obviously) :D
Eine wahre Leseempfehlung!!
Eine wahre Leseempfehlung!!
March 24, 2017
4,5 Sterne!!!
Was hätte ich für eine großartige Geschichte verpasst, wenn ich Geneva Lee nicht nochmal eine Chance gegeben hätte!!!
Was hätte ich für eine großartige Geschichte verpasst, wenn ich Geneva Lee nicht nochmal eine Chance gegeben hätte!!!
March 15, 2016
Faith has been through a lot in her life.
But now she's living a pretty normal and happy life in Port Townsend
She's working and living with her best friend Amie and she's a great mom to her deaf 4-year-old son Max.
That's all she needs and wants.
...the less people I let in, the less chance I'll be hurt again.
But then she meets HIM at an Narcotics Anonymous meeting in town.
Jude.
She hates him as soon as he opens his mouth.
Well, not really, she's more like instantly in lust with him.
But she can't have a guy in her life....can she?
She could become addicted to this guy - and another addiction is not something she can allow herself to have....
What will happen to Faith & Jude?
Will there be a HEA????
Will Faith's or Jude's secrets destroy everything?
I'm not spoiling anything!!! ☺
═════════════════════════════════
SUCH AN INTERESTING BOOK!
I really had no idea what to expect here.
I only knew Geneva from her british royal series.
And this was soooo completely different.
We have this broken but strong heroine.
With all that baggage in her past.
And now she's just trying to live her life as normally as possible.
But then all that changes when she meets Jude.
Who has just as much baggage...but we don't really know what has happened in his past...
It was really interesting to see how those two completely different people find their Happily Ever After with each other....
There's LOTS to overcome first, of course....
But I really loved seein them fight for it!
THE SINS THAT BIND US was a very personal book for Geneva Lee. And it shows - it's really full of emotions and angst and love and loss ... just read it - you'll love Faith & Max & Jude ! ♥
♡
♡
♡
♡
Want to read
February 10, 2016Oh heck, a new book by Geneva Lee?!?! My ovaries are still recovering from the last book I read from her, how the heck am I supposed to handle it?
January 7, 2018
4.5 Sterne 😍 Ach, war das Buch toll 😍
Vorneweg
Ich habe bereits fast die komplette Royal Reihe der Autorin gelesen und deswegen war ich sehr, sehr skeptisch 😅, denn auch wenn ich immer wissen wollte wie es weitergeht, fand ich die Royal Reihe doch eher durchschnittlich 🙈.
Meine Meinung
Dieses Buch ist der Wahnsinn! 😍
Faith ist die Mutter des kleinen (absolut süßen und goldigen) Max und möchte ihn vor allem beschützen was ihn verletzen könnte.
Bei einem Meeting einer Selbsthilfegruppe für Alkohol-und Drogenabhängige trifft sie auf Jude. Natürlich kann sie so einen Mann nicht in ihr Leben oder insbesondere in das ihres Sohnes lassen, oder ist er doch anders als es den Anschein hat?
Faith ist eine absolut starke Frau! Auch wenn sie es nicht immer leicht hatte, kämpfst sie weiter, denn sie möchte Max das bestmögliche bieten. Sie hat eine ziemliche Bindungsangst und lässt außer ihrer besten Freundin kaum jemand an sich heran. Mir war Faith wirklich sympathisch 😁 und man wünscht sich einfach nur, dass sie glücklich wird!
Jude 😍😍😍😍. Hach Jude war teilweise einfach so süß! Zum dahinschmelzen! Allein wie er mit Max umgeht, mit ihm spielt und sich um ihn kümmert 😍😍😍😍😍. Auch sein Verhalten gegenüber Faith fand ich toll, denn er setzt sie überhaupt nicht unter Druck, sondern lässt ihr die Zeit, die sie so dringend braucht und ist trotzdem für sie und Max da 😍😍😍.
Die Liebesgeschichte entwickelt sich nach und nach und ich fand sie einfach zum dahinschmelzen 😍. Für mich war der Plottwist recht vorhersehbar, aber das kann auch mal wieder an mir liegen 😅. So leicht können Bücher mich nicht überraschen, aber in diesem Fall macht das auch gar nichts 😊.
Hin und wieder gibt es Rückblicke in die Vergangenheit von Faith und ihrer Zwillingsschwester Grace. Teilweise hatten diese es wirklich in sich und man merkt wie viel Faith schon erlebt hat 🙈.
Der Schreibstil der Autorin ist wie bereits bei der Royal Reihe locker und flüssig 😚. Ich bin geradezu durch die Seiten geflogen 😊.
Trotzdem gefällt mir "Secret Sins - Stärker als das Schicksal" um Welten besser, als die Royal Reihe 🙈. Hier geht es nicht nur um Sex, sondern um Gefühle 😍😁.
Fazit
Ein absolut toller Liebesroman, den man nicht mehr aus der Hand legen kann! 😍
Vorneweg
Ich habe bereits fast die komplette Royal Reihe der Autorin gelesen und deswegen war ich sehr, sehr skeptisch 😅, denn auch wenn ich immer wissen wollte wie es weitergeht, fand ich die Royal Reihe doch eher durchschnittlich 🙈.
Meine Meinung
Dieses Buch ist der Wahnsinn! 😍
Faith ist die Mutter des kleinen (absolut süßen und goldigen) Max und möchte ihn vor allem beschützen was ihn verletzen könnte.
Bei einem Meeting einer Selbsthilfegruppe für Alkohol-und Drogenabhängige trifft sie auf Jude. Natürlich kann sie so einen Mann nicht in ihr Leben oder insbesondere in das ihres Sohnes lassen, oder ist er doch anders als es den Anschein hat?
Faith ist eine absolut starke Frau! Auch wenn sie es nicht immer leicht hatte, kämpfst sie weiter, denn sie möchte Max das bestmögliche bieten. Sie hat eine ziemliche Bindungsangst und lässt außer ihrer besten Freundin kaum jemand an sich heran. Mir war Faith wirklich sympathisch 😁 und man wünscht sich einfach nur, dass sie glücklich wird!
Jude 😍😍😍😍. Hach Jude war teilweise einfach so süß! Zum dahinschmelzen! Allein wie er mit Max umgeht, mit ihm spielt und sich um ihn kümmert 😍😍😍😍😍. Auch sein Verhalten gegenüber Faith fand ich toll, denn er setzt sie überhaupt nicht unter Druck, sondern lässt ihr die Zeit, die sie so dringend braucht und ist trotzdem für sie und Max da 😍😍😍.
Die Liebesgeschichte entwickelt sich nach und nach und ich fand sie einfach zum dahinschmelzen 😍. Für mich war der Plottwist recht vorhersehbar, aber das kann auch mal wieder an mir liegen 😅. So leicht können Bücher mich nicht überraschen, aber in diesem Fall macht das auch gar nichts 😊.
Hin und wieder gibt es Rückblicke in die Vergangenheit von Faith und ihrer Zwillingsschwester Grace. Teilweise hatten diese es wirklich in sich und man merkt wie viel Faith schon erlebt hat 🙈.
Der Schreibstil der Autorin ist wie bereits bei der Royal Reihe locker und flüssig 😚. Ich bin geradezu durch die Seiten geflogen 😊.
Trotzdem gefällt mir "Secret Sins - Stärker als das Schicksal" um Welten besser, als die Royal Reihe 🙈. Hier geht es nicht nur um Sex, sondern um Gefühle 😍😁.
Fazit
Ein absolut toller Liebesroman, den man nicht mehr aus der Hand legen kann! 😍
March 25, 2016
I loved the whole premise of an addicted single mom trying to make it in the world - as a second chance but the more I read...this was so much more than that.
The author wove a story around lies and hidden truths between Faith and Jude...just WOW!!
And don't even get me started on the poetic writing of Ms. Lee - phenomenal...I was sucked into this story and the more I read....the more complicated and angsty it became.
Loved the characters - especially Jude!
The author wove a story around lies and hidden truths between Faith and Jude...just WOW!!
And don't even get me started on the poetic writing of Ms. Lee - phenomenal...I was sucked into this story and the more I read....the more complicated and angsty it became.
Loved the characters - especially Jude!
March 23, 2017
Tja was soll man dazu sagen ? Royal Passion war der schlechteste New Adult Roman den ich je gelesen habe und das hier ist der Beste ! Ich hätte es nie für möglich gehalten das ausgerechnet Geneva Lee Kristin Challihan vom Thron stoßen wird, aber genau das ist passiert. Das Buch ist nicht nur unheimlich gefühlvoll und meisterhaft geschrieben sondern spannend und emotional von der ersten Seite an ! Uneingeschränkte Kaufempfehlung von mir .... nicht nur für Fans des Genres !!!!!!
December 27, 2019
**Received ARC in exchange for an honest review**
"Something about you makes me want to confess my sins."
This isn't an easy story but it is one that needs to be told. The Sins that Bind us is a heartbreakingly real story that many people can relate to. Even if I didn't go through this myself I could relate to it. I think more stories like this should be told. I want to thank Geneva Lee for her courage to write such a difficult but very inspirational and uplifting story that I hope will touch many readers. Nobody is perfect and we just try our best to make ourselves and our loved ones proud.
"Face your past and then let it go."
This story is about Faith who is struggling to let go of her past. She made a home with her son Max and best friend Amie. But she isn't completely happy. The moment she meets Jude she feels attracted to him. The same goes for Jude. Jude is very mysterious and just moved to town. Their first meeting doesn't go well. But they keep meeting each other and Jude worms his way into her life. At this time we still don't know a lot about him but we do get to see more of Faith and what she went through. The flashbacks in between were very essential to the story, and even though they were heartbreaking, they needed to be shown to really understand were Faith was coming from.
"He snuck into my heart, and now he's making himself at home."
One of my favorite scenes in this book were the interactions between Max and Jude. It was amazing to see how they clicked right away. Jude was really good with Max. Also I loved the moments between Faith and Amie, she is this crazy best friend that pushes you to go out more and have fun. Amie has been such a great support to Faith, giving her a job and having her back all these years. I also want to mention that Faith is such a strong character that hasn't let what happened to her make her go a downward spiral. I also love Jude for not giving up, he understood where she was coming from and didn't let her push him out of her life. He was there for her from the moment they met!
"He doesn't sing the words. He promises them. I may be his Sunshine, but as I melt into his arms, I understand that he's the reason I burn."
There are twists in this book that added new layers to the book. It was done really well by the author. The writing was good, there wasn't a moment that didn't grab my attention. Everything fit well together. This is the first book I read by Geneva Lee but it definitely won't be my last.
"Our sins bind us together. They don't set us free."
"We write our own stories."
"Something about you makes me want to confess my sins."
This isn't an easy story but it is one that needs to be told. The Sins that Bind us is a heartbreakingly real story that many people can relate to. Even if I didn't go through this myself I could relate to it. I think more stories like this should be told. I want to thank Geneva Lee for her courage to write such a difficult but very inspirational and uplifting story that I hope will touch many readers. Nobody is perfect and we just try our best to make ourselves and our loved ones proud.
"Face your past and then let it go."
This story is about Faith who is struggling to let go of her past. She made a home with her son Max and best friend Amie. But she isn't completely happy. The moment she meets Jude she feels attracted to him. The same goes for Jude. Jude is very mysterious and just moved to town. Their first meeting doesn't go well. But they keep meeting each other and Jude worms his way into her life. At this time we still don't know a lot about him but we do get to see more of Faith and what she went through. The flashbacks in between were very essential to the story, and even though they were heartbreaking, they needed to be shown to really understand were Faith was coming from.
"He snuck into my heart, and now he's making himself at home."
One of my favorite scenes in this book were the interactions between Max and Jude. It was amazing to see how they clicked right away. Jude was really good with Max. Also I loved the moments between Faith and Amie, she is this crazy best friend that pushes you to go out more and have fun. Amie has been such a great support to Faith, giving her a job and having her back all these years. I also want to mention that Faith is such a strong character that hasn't let what happened to her make her go a downward spiral. I also love Jude for not giving up, he understood where she was coming from and didn't let her push him out of her life. He was there for her from the moment they met!
"He doesn't sing the words. He promises them. I may be his Sunshine, but as I melt into his arms, I understand that he's the reason I burn."
There are twists in this book that added new layers to the book. It was done really well by the author. The writing was good, there wasn't a moment that didn't grab my attention. Everything fit well together. This is the first book I read by Geneva Lee but it definitely won't be my last.
"Our sins bind us together. They don't set us free."
"We write our own stories."
July 27, 2021
J'ai juste carrément adoré ce livre, il est poignant et peu être réaliste. Et ces retournements de situations mon dieu je m'y attendais tellement pas. Franchement foncer lire ce livre il est juste extra
March 23, 2016
“Everyone is an Addict. We all have our drug.”
This book was simply gorgeous. I loved every second of it and I was hooked since Page 1. This is a beautiful, sometimes gritty, sometimes heartbreaking book that deals with difficult but very real subjects like addiction, abuse and second chances.
Faith Kane has been through a lot in her life and has a lot on her plate. She’s a single mother to a wonderful kid who is deaf and also takes care of her grandmother. She’s struggling to keep up with the demands of life and make ends meet. She attends Narcotics Anonymous meetings to keep herself grounded and from falling off the wagon. One day while in a meeting, she meets Jude. Jude is this gorgeous and mysterious enigma that captivates him from the first time they meet. However, Faith has a lot of trust issues due to her past. She’s very wary of the fact that she met Jude at an NA meeting and also the fact that she has a son, but Jude totally storms into her life like a hurricane.
"Life is messy, Sunshine. Some of those messes are ugly, but this is a beautiful one,"
I loved both characters, Faith was such a strong, amazing woman and mom. And Jude, he was a dream come true. The man was perfection. He’s so good to Faith and Max. The romance is perfectly paced, Faith slowly lets Jude into her heart and their chemistry is amazing. I loved everything about their love story.
“You’re the truth I’ve been seeking my whole life.”
The story is mostly told in Faith’s POV along with flashbacks of Faith’s past and growing up with her grandmother and twin sister Grace. Grace plays a huge part in the story and we get to see the root of all of their problems. Their sister bond was amazing to experience. Both Faith and Jude have a lot of secrets, and once those are revealed, then the story takes a very interesting turn. Now, I was able to figure out most of the plot twists beforehand, I think there are plenty of hints as to some of them throughout the story. However, they were perfectly executed by the author.
“I was broken when I met Jude. I still am, but with him I’m closer to whole. Together we’re nearly complete. His mouth slants over mine, his strong arms bracketing my shoulder blades as he draws me closer. When his lips seal over mine, I know I’ve found my forever.”
I also loved the underlying message about how we are all addicted to something, and how some addictions are just stronger than others. I also loved the support group bits and how we always need someone in our lives, someone we can talk to and that will support us without judgement. Overall, the writing is beautiful and I enjoyed every second of the story. This is my first Geneva Lee book, but this will definitely not be my last. I absolutely recommend this one!
“…loves me. Every time I realize it, I fall in love with her all over again. This woman who sings too loudly in the car and loves too fiercely. She’s not a fragile as she thinks she is, but that doesn’t stop her from caring too much. She’s learning boundaries. We both are. Every day we take new steps—together and apart—but we always find our way back to each other.”
**An ARC was generously provided by the author and TRSOR Promotions in exchange for an honest review**
Buy it on: Amazon US | Amazon UK | Amazon CA | iBooks | B&N
March 27, 2016
***FIVE STARS***
This story just absolutely blew me away. I love stories that have characters who each have their own dark secrets that are slowly revealed layer, by layer. I got sucked right into this story from page one and loved every second of it. Jude was such a sweetheart. I fell for him hard from the beginning. I was starting to get a bit frustrated and perhaps a little irritated that Faith just kept him at arms length for so long, and then the story took a turn that knocked my socks off. I'm not giving any more away, because this whole story needs to be experienced first hand.
It's been a while since I read a story that brought tears to my eyes, but good tears. Faith and Grace's Grandmother having such a good day towards the end of the story, being so clear headed and being aware of important things around her, touched me so much. My grandma was an amazing woman like theirs, and had similar days at the end. I would have given anything for a clear awareness day with her like the one in this story.
This story had such a beautiful ending. I loved it so, so much. I totally recommend this story to anyone who can handle the subject matter of addiction. This is definitely one of my favorite stories of 2016.
March 27, 2016
This is going to be a very difficult review to write, because I truly believe there are not enough words in the world to describe the emotional wonderfulness that is this book.
There are so many pieces in this story that giving you even the briefest of bits could possibly ruin the mystery. So, instead of giving you a summary of the story, I am going to do my best to describe how I felt about some of the major parts. The list included heartbreak, joy, sympathy, anger, hope, love and acceptance.
I really felt like I connected with the characters, even if we come from truly separate situations and lifestyles. I was able to be immersed into the story and almost watch as the characters lied, loved, and healed each other. The story does bounce back and forth from present to past, and you get puzzle pieces along the way. I will tell you the details are revealed in bits and pieces, so pay attention to everything!
Ms. Lee has spun a story so honest, wonderful, heartbreaking and brutal that you are forced to be broken and mended at the same time. ~ Devlynn, 5 stars
There are so many pieces in this story that giving you even the briefest of bits could possibly ruin the mystery. So, instead of giving you a summary of the story, I am going to do my best to describe how I felt about some of the major parts. The list included heartbreak, joy, sympathy, anger, hope, love and acceptance.
I really felt like I connected with the characters, even if we come from truly separate situations and lifestyles. I was able to be immersed into the story and almost watch as the characters lied, loved, and healed each other. The story does bounce back and forth from present to past, and you get puzzle pieces along the way. I will tell you the details are revealed in bits and pieces, so pay attention to everything!
Ms. Lee has spun a story so honest, wonderful, heartbreaking and brutal that you are forced to be broken and mended at the same time. ~ Devlynn, 5 stars
November 24, 2019
Mein erstes Geneva Lee Buch :D
Nachdem ich schon so viel schlechtes über die Bücher von Geneva Lee gehört habe, bin ich echt begeistert darüber, wie gut mir dieses Buch von ihr gefallen hat!
Es konnte mich überzeugen mit einer sehr tiefgründigen Geschichte, die ich so in dieser Form niemals erwartet hätte, mit Charakteren die so vielschichtig sind, dass sie mich immer wieder überraschen konnten und einem Plot Twist, der mir so auch noch nie unter gekommen ist.
Da mir der Einstieg in die Geschichte ziemlich lange etwas schwer gefallen ist, habe ich nur einen halben Stern abgezogen, sodass Secret Sins von mir 4.5/5 Sterne bekommt! :)
Sollte es euch genauso gehen, dass ihr den Büchern von ihr skeptisch gegenüber steht, dann solltet ihr es wirklich versuchen! Es hat sich wahnsinnig gelohnt!!
Nachdem ich schon so viel schlechtes über die Bücher von Geneva Lee gehört habe, bin ich echt begeistert darüber, wie gut mir dieses Buch von ihr gefallen hat!
Es konnte mich überzeugen mit einer sehr tiefgründigen Geschichte, die ich so in dieser Form niemals erwartet hätte, mit Charakteren die so vielschichtig sind, dass sie mich immer wieder überraschen konnten und einem Plot Twist, der mir so auch noch nie unter gekommen ist.
Da mir der Einstieg in die Geschichte ziemlich lange etwas schwer gefallen ist, habe ich nur einen halben Stern abgezogen, sodass Secret Sins von mir 4.5/5 Sterne bekommt! :)
Sollte es euch genauso gehen, dass ihr den Büchern von ihr skeptisch gegenüber steht, dann solltet ihr es wirklich versuchen! Es hat sich wahnsinnig gelohnt!!
April 7, 2017
Wow!!! Ein wirklich mega tolles Buch!!! Die Geschichte war herzzerreißend, spannend und voller Gefühl... Ich habe auch ein paar Tränen verdruckt :) Eine ganz klare Leseempfehlung !!!! <3
March 24, 2016
“Loving an addict is to live torn between hope and mourning, caught in an endless repetition of the five stages of grief.”
I read this book in less than 24 hours. I absolutely loved it. It was PERFECT. It was HEARTBREAKING. It was Sad and Beautiful.
This book is beautiful. It's a story about real life. It's about addiction. And the most beautiful part of this book is knowing the writer took the time to show the reader that there are many kinds, sizes and colors of addiction. And all of them can be dangerous if you let them
This is a MUST, Buy it and read it NOW.
dnf
May 17, 2021DNF after the first chapter.
They just met, have barely spoken and she already feels a deep connection with him? Give me a fucking break.
They just met, have barely spoken and she already feels a deep connection with him? Give me a fucking break.
May 27, 2017
Inkvotary
4,5 stars
No words ... tears ... beautiful ... stars follow ...
I never thought that the author could write something like this. Full of emotions, dark, light, soft and rough at the same time. There is even some kind of poetry in this story. Don´t get me wrong. I loved reading her Royals Saga. But this here? The complete opposite and still you can tell that Geneva Lee wrote it. Overwhelming, sad and full of surprises.
There is a strength in her characters, a softness, pain, hope and an addiction that tells you with every sentence that almost everything can be addictive. Drugs, alcohol, chocolate, sugar even glue. Not every addiction makes you sick, but every addiction is a selfcreated prison - more or less.
4,5 stars
No words ... tears ... beautiful ... stars follow ...
I never thought that the author could write something like this. Full of emotions, dark, light, soft and rough at the same time. There is even some kind of poetry in this story. Don´t get me wrong. I loved reading her Royals Saga. But this here? The complete opposite and still you can tell that Geneva Lee wrote it. Overwhelming, sad and full of surprises.
There is a strength in her characters, a softness, pain, hope and an addiction that tells you with every sentence that almost everything can be addictive. Drugs, alcohol, chocolate, sugar even glue. Not every addiction makes you sick, but every addiction is a selfcreated prison - more or less.
Want to read
June 16, 2020🎁 FREE on Amazon today (6/16/2020)! 🎁
March 18, 2016
Incredible. Breathtaking. Absolute perfection. I'll be honest and tell you that I didn't see this book coming. I've never read anything by this author before and it hurts my heart because this was so DAMN good! I feel like I've missed out a bit by not experiencing the brilliance of Lee's writing. It's so poetic and beautiful, just like her characters, and her latest release just ran away with my heart. And the funny thing is, I don't want it back just yet, because I want it to be with the characters for a little bit longer. Every single romance reader should experience this beauty. After reading the Author's Note at the very beginning, tears started to stream down my face, and I hadn't even started the damn story yet! Well, that set the tone to what would be a lovely, emotional, one of a kind read for me.
"Love is all anyone needs to be rich in life. More than that is just glitter."
Two fragile and broken souls find their way to each other in the midst of storm. The storm being a metaphor for chaos, tragedy, and redemption. THE SINS THAT BIND US take us on a journey of Before and After. There were ups and downs. There was lust and love. There was darkness and there was light. Nothing prepared me for the twist in this fascinating story. I found myself flipping back through pages, trying to find a clue...trying to find something I missed in the beginning and of course they were there and there was a reason I missed it at the beginning. You were meant to. You were meant to have your heart ripped out of your chest, as the author carefully made it all better again. You were meant to have your mind scrambled, just so the author could ease it with a hard-won Happily Ever After. Your chest was meant to ache, so that the author could eventually ease your pain. As the lucky reader of this book, you were meant to go on this journey with these characters to have the full emotional experience of a true literary masterpiece. In the end, your heart, soul, mind, and chest will be better for it. In the midst of so many contemporary romances out there today, THE SINS THAT BIND US shines brighter than most. These characters and their story latched onto my heart and wouldn't let go. This alluring and superb story deserves my praise and SO MUCH MORE. Needless to say, I'll never forget it. I'll display this book on my bookshelf proudly. I will tell the author over and over again, THANK YOU for this. THANK YOU for opening my eyes to something different, something I will never take for granted. This delicate and dazzling read will forever be a favorite of mine.
*Gifted copy provided by the author in exchange for an honest review*
March 15, 2016
You know how you read a book that is so telling, so honest, so cuttingly real, that it carves a place in your soul for itself? One that makes it impossible for you to part with the words? That's how I feel right now about The Sins that Bind Us by Geneva Lee. It's a book that will haunt me.
This is not a book you expect to love or hate. It's not a book you read and know how it's going to end. It's not predictable, it's not kind, it's not unkind, it just is. Like living every day. It just is. And like living our lives each day, this book is a gift. Every moment is beautiful in it's own way.
I'm not sure I've ever read characters so complex and so well developed that I instinctively knew them, the same way I'd know my own sister or my best friend. I hurt for the hero and heroine. Physically ached for them. And the last line of the book, was quiet possibly my favorite last line of any book. It cut deep.
"The Sins That Bind is a cutting, gut-wrenching, intelligent tale, layered with reality and endless hope. Put simply, it's a novel that changes you."
This is not a book you expect to love or hate. It's not a book you read and know how it's going to end. It's not predictable, it's not kind, it's not unkind, it just is. Like living every day. It just is. And like living our lives each day, this book is a gift. Every moment is beautiful in it's own way.
I'm not sure I've ever read characters so complex and so well developed that I instinctively knew them, the same way I'd know my own sister or my best friend. I hurt for the hero and heroine. Physically ached for them. And the last line of the book, was quiet possibly my favorite last line of any book. It cut deep.
"The Sins That Bind is a cutting, gut-wrenching, intelligent tale, layered with reality and endless hope. Put simply, it's a novel that changes you."
May 26, 2017
Oh, das war so herzzerreißend schön. Ich liebe dieses Buch. Ich hätte es nie gelesen, wenn Paddy nicht gesagt hätte, dass Royal Passion das schlechteste new adult Buch sei und dieses hier das Beste! Wie Recht sie doch hatte!
September 22, 2019
3 ⭐️
Dieses Buch war mein 9., aber bisher schlechtestes Buch von Geneva Lee. Ich bin ein großer Fan von der Autorin, aber hier wurde ich leider enttäuscht.
Was mich als erstes überrascht hat, war die Vorbemerkung der Autorin & dadurch wurde ich direkt skeptisch. Sobald es um schwierige Themen geht, bin ich vorsichtig.
Die ersten 150-200 Seiten waren für mich schlecht. Es ist gar nicht wie man Geneva Lee kennt & obwohl es ihr persönlichstes Buch ist, habe ich es kaum gespürt. Mir fehlte es an Emotionen, Spaß am Lesen & vor allem: Nachvollziehbarkeit! Die Autorin hat so viele wichtige Informationen & Details ausgelassen, dass es absolut verwirrend wurde. Schuld war, dass die Autorin am Ende einen Plottwist verwendete, der das Weglassen von Informationen benötigte. Leider habe ich aber beide große Plottwists der Autorin von Anfang an gewusst, weil es für mich total offensichtlich war.
Ab Seite 200 ging es dann bergauf & die letzten 100 Seiten konnten mich dann nochmal packen. Ich hatte Spaß am Lesen & es wurde spannend. Ich konnte die Protagonistin besser nachvollziehen & das Ende war perfekt für meinen Geschmack.
Leider ändert das Ende aber nichts daran, dass das Buch deutliche Schwächen - wie Längen, kaum Emotionen, keine überraschende Plottwists und einen Schreibstil, wie man ihn von Geneva Lee nicht kennt - aufweist. Deshalb gibt es von mir nur 3/5 ⭐️
Dieses Buch war mein 9., aber bisher schlechtestes Buch von Geneva Lee. Ich bin ein großer Fan von der Autorin, aber hier wurde ich leider enttäuscht.
Was mich als erstes überrascht hat, war die Vorbemerkung der Autorin & dadurch wurde ich direkt skeptisch. Sobald es um schwierige Themen geht, bin ich vorsichtig.
Die ersten 150-200 Seiten waren für mich schlecht. Es ist gar nicht wie man Geneva Lee kennt & obwohl es ihr persönlichstes Buch ist, habe ich es kaum gespürt. Mir fehlte es an Emotionen, Spaß am Lesen & vor allem: Nachvollziehbarkeit! Die Autorin hat so viele wichtige Informationen & Details ausgelassen, dass es absolut verwirrend wurde. Schuld war, dass die Autorin am Ende einen Plottwist verwendete, der das Weglassen von Informationen benötigte. Leider habe ich aber beide große Plottwists der Autorin von Anfang an gewusst, weil es für mich total offensichtlich war.
Ab Seite 200 ging es dann bergauf & die letzten 100 Seiten konnten mich dann nochmal packen. Ich hatte Spaß am Lesen & es wurde spannend. Ich konnte die Protagonistin besser nachvollziehen & das Ende war perfekt für meinen Geschmack.
Leider ändert das Ende aber nichts daran, dass das Buch deutliche Schwächen - wie Längen, kaum Emotionen, keine überraschende Plottwists und einen Schreibstil, wie man ihn von Geneva Lee nicht kennt - aufweist. Deshalb gibt es von mir nur 3/5 ⭐️
Displaying 1 - 30 of 373 reviews