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Off the Map #3.1
Carry Me Home
Love doesn’t have to be perfect to be true…
Years ago, Tanner Green loved Sunny Letman. She was meant to be his first kiss, first love, first everything. Then their world spun upside-down and out of control.
Free-spirited Sunny doesn’t do commitment. Sure, guys are great for a night or a week, but she always leaves first. That is, until professional skateboarder and town golden boy, Tanner Green, unexpectedly walks back into her life.
Despite their broken history, a fragile and undeniably electric connection still holds them together. Now Tanner has to convince Sunny that even though love isn’t always perfect, it’s worth sticking around for. . .
Years ago, Tanner Green loved Sunny Letman. She was meant to be his first kiss, first love, first everything. Then their world spun upside-down and out of control.
Free-spirited Sunny doesn’t do commitment. Sure, guys are great for a night or a week, but she always leaves first. That is, until professional skateboarder and town golden boy, Tanner Green, unexpectedly walks back into her life.
Despite their broken history, a fragile and undeniably electric connection still holds them together. Now Tanner has to convince Sunny that even though love isn’t always perfect, it’s worth sticking around for. . .
ebook
First published May 5, 2015
About the author
Lia Riley
19 books818 followersLia Riley is a contemporary romance author. USA Today describes her as "refreshing" and RT Book Reviews calls her books "sizzling and heartfelt." She loves the beach, fresh flowers, foggy redwood forests and a perfect pour over coffee. She is 25% sarcastic, 54% optimistic, and 122% bad at math (good thing she writes happy endings for a living). She and her family live mostly in Northern California.
Visit her at www.liariley.com to learn more.
Visit her at www.liariley.com to learn more.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 52 reviews
May 5, 2015
Initial thoughts upon finishing: I feel cheated. CHEATED. My Kindle said there was 30 minutes left in the book, and then it ENDED and I wanted to cry. Like with Bran and Talia, I wanted ALL THE TANNER AND SUNNY and didn't want their story to end. It was beautiful and perfect and I loved it.
Find this and other reviews at Ramblings of a Daydreamer.
And the award for best opening line of a book goes to...Lia Riley! Seriously. “Shoot me, I like sex. If I wait for true love before getting busy, I’ll be covered in cobwebs, and that’s bad news for someone with arachnophobia.” With an opening line like that, is it any wonder I love Lia’s books so much? There’s just something about her stories, her characters, and her writing style that sucks you in.
Upside Down, Sideswiped, and Inside Out were three of my favourite books of 2014, and put Lia near the top of my auto-read list. Her unique stories, relatable characters, honest writing, and hella sexy scenes make her books compulsively readable, and Carry Me Home was no different.
From the little bit we got to know about Sunny and Tanner in Talia and Bran’s books, I was curious what their story would be like. I had a certain mental image of each of them in mind, and in many ways it was smashed to pieces. Sunny and Tanner were complex characters, and for a novella, we got to know a lot about them, their histories (separately and together), and what drives them. They both had issues and carried a lot of emotional scars from things that happened to them in the past. They seemed like they shouldn’t work together, but they did. I absolutely loved them together. For such a short book, these two made me run the gamut of emotions from happy to heartbroken to angry to frustrated and everything in between. They helped each other in so many ways, and each became better people. Considering the length of the story, I’d say it was no small feat to have such intense, believable character growth.
Like with Ms Riley’s other books, the sexytime scenes in Carry Me Home were off the charts hot. I joked to a friend that I was tempted to rig up my Kindle in a Ziplock bag and just take it into a freezing cold shower. It was THAT hot. And yet the sexytimes were also really beautiful and meaningful and added to the story. I had trouble describing it in my reviews of Lia’s other books, but I love that she doesn’t shy away from sexual stuff, and that it’s completely honest and open and believable. You don’t read a lot of stories like that, and it makes me love her books even more. I also really loved the sex positive messages in the book; Sunny was completely unashamed of her sexuality, and it was so nice to see a guy who lacked somewhat in experience and wasn’t a total player. It was a refreshing change from all the books out there with the timid, inexperienced girl and the sex god guy.
Carry Me Home was a beautiful story. I could have continued reading about Sunny and Tanner forever. I didn’t want their story to end and was sad to say goodbye to them, even though my heart was full.
Find this and other reviews at Ramblings of a Daydreamer.
And the award for best opening line of a book goes to...Lia Riley! Seriously. “Shoot me, I like sex. If I wait for true love before getting busy, I’ll be covered in cobwebs, and that’s bad news for someone with arachnophobia.” With an opening line like that, is it any wonder I love Lia’s books so much? There’s just something about her stories, her characters, and her writing style that sucks you in.
Upside Down, Sideswiped, and Inside Out were three of my favourite books of 2014, and put Lia near the top of my auto-read list. Her unique stories, relatable characters, honest writing, and hella sexy scenes make her books compulsively readable, and Carry Me Home was no different.
From the little bit we got to know about Sunny and Tanner in Talia and Bran’s books, I was curious what their story would be like. I had a certain mental image of each of them in mind, and in many ways it was smashed to pieces. Sunny and Tanner were complex characters, and for a novella, we got to know a lot about them, their histories (separately and together), and what drives them. They both had issues and carried a lot of emotional scars from things that happened to them in the past. They seemed like they shouldn’t work together, but they did. I absolutely loved them together. For such a short book, these two made me run the gamut of emotions from happy to heartbroken to angry to frustrated and everything in between. They helped each other in so many ways, and each became better people. Considering the length of the story, I’d say it was no small feat to have such intense, believable character growth.
Like with Ms Riley’s other books, the sexytime scenes in Carry Me Home were off the charts hot. I joked to a friend that I was tempted to rig up my Kindle in a Ziplock bag and just take it into a freezing cold shower. It was THAT hot. And yet the sexytimes were also really beautiful and meaningful and added to the story. I had trouble describing it in my reviews of Lia’s other books, but I love that she doesn’t shy away from sexual stuff, and that it’s completely honest and open and believable. You don’t read a lot of stories like that, and it makes me love her books even more. I also really loved the sex positive messages in the book; Sunny was completely unashamed of her sexuality, and it was so nice to see a guy who lacked somewhat in experience and wasn’t a total player. It was a refreshing change from all the books out there with the timid, inexperienced girl and the sex god guy.
Carry Me Home was a beautiful story. I could have continued reading about Sunny and Tanner forever. I didn’t want their story to end and was sad to say goodbye to them, even though my heart was full.
April 20, 2015
**Carry Me Home generously provided by the publisher via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.**
3 "...the simplest answer..." Stars
I really enjoyed the Off the Map series by Lia Riley and was excited to read this novella. Ms. Riley writes simple love stories where the characters have complicated views on love yet their connections to each other are solid.
In the first 3 books of the series, Tanner Green is mentioned a lot. He intrigues readers because of the circumstances in which we meet him throughout the series. It was nice to see his side of the story and really get to know the true man that he is. Sunny Letman is quite a character. Vivacious and care free, she brings out a side in him Tanner has long since buried.
The hesitance of both these characters shows their vulnerability but the honesty they each possess is their most charming quality. With each other they navigate a spark that was always present for them. It was really short, this book, and easy to read but I wanted a little bit more. The conflict felt rushed as did the ending to their story. But I really like these characters. There's a humor and honestly in this book that makes it great.
If you're a fan of the series, don't skip this novella.
November 26, 2015
I loved the Off The Map series, so when I heard about Carry Me Home I was so excited. Carry Me Home is Tanner and Sunny’s story. I don’t know about you guys, but I have been waiting to hear more about Tanner.
Tanner has been in love with Sunny since they were teens. She was supposed to be his first everything, until life threw them one crazy curve ball and everything changed….Sunny is a great free spirit. She’s a love em’ and leave em’ type of girl. She gets what she needs and never promises more. But, when Tanner comes back home, her world is thrown off its axis.
I am so glad that we finally got Tanner’s story. There was so much more to him than I originally thought. I mean, I’ll be honest with you, I wasn’t his biggest fan when his character was introduced. However, the more we got to see to him, the more I was intrigued. So many things were misunderstood and Tanner harbored a secret and guilt that no one ever knew about.
And Sunny. I knew she had to have been hurt in the past in order to live a love em’ and leave em’ lifestyle. I just wasn’t prepared for the truth of her situation. She fought her feelings for Tanner, every chance that she could. And I loved that Tanner seemed to be the only one who could show her that love doesn’t have to be perfect.
Overall, I really enjoyed Sunny and Tanner’s journey. Their story, although it was a quick one, was very enjoyable. My only complaint was that I did feel as though the story was a little rushed towards the end. I would have liked to have seen their relationship grow a little more. That being said, it is a novella, so I understand why things were more fast paced than I wanted.
Carry Me Home is a great addition to the Off The Map series. I loved finally getting to see Tanner’s side of things.The characters had great chemistry and story-line was entertaining. An overall fun read!
* I was provided a copy of this book via NetGalley, in exchange for an honest review*
You can also see my review here at: http://onceuponabookblog.com/2015/05/...
Tanner has been in love with Sunny since they were teens. She was supposed to be his first everything, until life threw them one crazy curve ball and everything changed….Sunny is a great free spirit. She’s a love em’ and leave em’ type of girl. She gets what she needs and never promises more. But, when Tanner comes back home, her world is thrown off its axis.
I am so glad that we finally got Tanner’s story. There was so much more to him than I originally thought. I mean, I’ll be honest with you, I wasn’t his biggest fan when his character was introduced. However, the more we got to see to him, the more I was intrigued. So many things were misunderstood and Tanner harbored a secret and guilt that no one ever knew about.
And Sunny. I knew she had to have been hurt in the past in order to live a love em’ and leave em’ lifestyle. I just wasn’t prepared for the truth of her situation. She fought her feelings for Tanner, every chance that she could. And I loved that Tanner seemed to be the only one who could show her that love doesn’t have to be perfect.
Overall, I really enjoyed Sunny and Tanner’s journey. Their story, although it was a quick one, was very enjoyable. My only complaint was that I did feel as though the story was a little rushed towards the end. I would have liked to have seen their relationship grow a little more. That being said, it is a novella, so I understand why things were more fast paced than I wanted.
Carry Me Home is a great addition to the Off The Map series. I loved finally getting to see Tanner’s side of things.The characters had great chemistry and story-line was entertaining. An overall fun read!
* I was provided a copy of this book via NetGalley, in exchange for an honest review*
You can also see my review here at: http://onceuponabookblog.com/2015/05/...
April 15, 2015
I love everything Lia writes, this is no exception. One of the best opening chapters I've ever read!
Review to come.
Review to come.
August 26, 2015
For more reviews check out my blog Maf's Crazy Book Life
Right after I finished reaction: FIRST OF ALL LIA RILEY HOW DARE YOU BE SUCH A GOOD WRITER?!?!
Full review:
It's no secret that I love Talia and Bran. It's annoying how much I love them. Their story is the first one I recommend when someone asks me for New Adult books. I was excited for this novella but I wasn't sure how Lia was going to make me love Sunny and Tanner as much as I loved Talia and Bran. But somehow she managed and now they are right up there with my precious babies <3
I always loved Sunny, I really wanted to know more about her story and was beyond excited when I found out about Carry Me Home, but when I learned Tanner would be her love interest, yup, I freaked. If you read Upside Down (which, c'mon bruh, you need to) you will know about Tanner, I hated him, my opinion did change a bit over the course of Off The Map but not enough and I LOVED Sunny, I wanted her to be as happy as humanly possible and all I could do was trust that Lia knew what was better for her characters and my, did she.
"But here's the shitty thing about unfinished business. It's still there even if you leave first or get in the last word"
Sunny and Tanner's lives have been full of people's letting them down and guilt, so it's no surprise that the most interesting part of their relationship is learning to let each other in and learning to forgive themselves for things that were never their fault and totally out of their control.
"Do you think we'll have time for an always?"
There is something about Lia's writing that always manages to hit the perfect balance between hilarious with some Comedy Central worthy lines and some scenes and moments so sad that will have you crying into your pillow thinking about what her characters had to go through. When I finished reading this novella I had to go back and read Inside Out because the feelings where just too much. I am so excited for Beth's novella, I have a feeling Z is going to give Tanner and my sweet adorable perfect baby Bran a run for their money.
Right after I finished reaction: FIRST OF ALL LIA RILEY HOW DARE YOU BE SUCH A GOOD WRITER?!?!
Full review:
It's no secret that I love Talia and Bran. It's annoying how much I love them. Their story is the first one I recommend when someone asks me for New Adult books. I was excited for this novella but I wasn't sure how Lia was going to make me love Sunny and Tanner as much as I loved Talia and Bran. But somehow she managed and now they are right up there with my precious babies <3
I always loved Sunny, I really wanted to know more about her story and was beyond excited when I found out about Carry Me Home, but when I learned Tanner would be her love interest, yup, I freaked. If you read Upside Down (which, c'mon bruh, you need to) you will know about Tanner, I hated him, my opinion did change a bit over the course of Off The Map but not enough and I LOVED Sunny, I wanted her to be as happy as humanly possible and all I could do was trust that Lia knew what was better for her characters and my, did she.
"But here's the shitty thing about unfinished business. It's still there even if you leave first or get in the last word"
Sunny and Tanner's lives have been full of people's letting them down and guilt, so it's no surprise that the most interesting part of their relationship is learning to let each other in and learning to forgive themselves for things that were never their fault and totally out of their control.
"Do you think we'll have time for an always?"
There is something about Lia's writing that always manages to hit the perfect balance between hilarious with some Comedy Central worthy lines and some scenes and moments so sad that will have you crying into your pillow thinking about what her characters had to go through. When I finished reading this novella I had to go back and read Inside Out because the feelings where just too much. I am so excited for Beth's novella, I have a feeling Z is going to give Tanner and my sweet adorable perfect baby Bran a run for their money.
Read
April 9, 2015Sunny and Tanner's story. This can be read as a stand alone and is, ahem, a little sexy.
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Stay current with all the news in Lia Riley Land by signing up for my newsletter: http://liariley.us7.list-manage.com/s... or joining my FaceBook group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/ourso....
September 18, 2015
Loved it, more words on this later (when I'm not sitting in the orthodontist's office!)
May 4, 2015
This series sucked me in with no hope of spitting me back out. I knew I would love the latest novella, Carry Me Home; I didn't realize how much I would love it though. This book sucked me into a rabbit hole of the greatest proportions. I finished the book practically begging for more. Lia has me wondering how she'll be able to top this extremely sexy, twisted and deeply devoted love story. ~ Kelly, 5 stars
~~~
Lia Riley's Off the Map series is one of my absolute favorites, so getting my hands on this excellent novella was a genuine treat. And Carry Me Home was, like the other books I've loved so, pure perfection.
Sunny Letman doesn't do boyfriends. Sex, yes. Commitment, no. But when Tanner Green walks back into her life, years after they fell apart, she starts to question her commitment to non-commitment.
For Tanner, Sunny represents what should have been. His first everything. Despite their heartbreaking pasts, he's convinced that she can still be his everything...if he can just get through to her.
Ms. Riley is an amazing writer. This novella reads like a full-length book, a fully formed and executed story from start to finish. Did it end too soon? Yes, but only because I fell for Sunny and Tanner and wanted to read about them forever. But did it feel incomplete or rushed, as novellas sometimes do? Hell. No.
Carry Me Home was filled with all the things I loved about the first three Off the Map books. Humor, sass, some seriously steamy sex and a giant helping of angst and tension. Sunny and Tanner were perfectly imperfect; a little jaded, a lot guilty and completely unsure of themselves and each other. But Ms. Riley led them home in a believable, real and raw manner, and damn, if I didn't love every single second.
I can only hope that this series continues in some form in the future. Maybe for Beth, maybe more Sunny and Tanner, maybe more Talia and Bran. Whatever, however, whenever it (*fingers crossed*) happens, I'll be first in line to one-click. ~ Beth, 5 stars
~~~
More Carry Me Home, please! Damn, this book was sexy and sweet and quite literally unputdownable.
We first met Tanner and Sunny in Upside Down. Sunny is Talia’s plucky best friend and Tanner -- well, we didn’t really meet him, exactly. We heard about him and, frankly, we didn’t hear nice things.
I absolutely adored Sunny and Tanner together. I loved getting an inside look into some of the more catastrophic events that happened in Upside Down. I loved learning Tanner’s motivations and watching him evolve. I adored Sunny. She’s so broken and scared, but also tough and fiery.
These two together are combustible. Like, jaw open, tongue hanging out, breathing a little faster than what is normal – combustible.
This book ended too quickly for me. I could have read 500 more pages on this awesome couple! But I loved every page I got to read. ~ Shelly, 5 stars
~~~
Lia Riley's Off the Map series is one of my absolute favorites, so getting my hands on this excellent novella was a genuine treat. And Carry Me Home was, like the other books I've loved so, pure perfection.
Sunny Letman doesn't do boyfriends. Sex, yes. Commitment, no. But when Tanner Green walks back into her life, years after they fell apart, she starts to question her commitment to non-commitment.
For Tanner, Sunny represents what should have been. His first everything. Despite their heartbreaking pasts, he's convinced that she can still be his everything...if he can just get through to her.
Ms. Riley is an amazing writer. This novella reads like a full-length book, a fully formed and executed story from start to finish. Did it end too soon? Yes, but only because I fell for Sunny and Tanner and wanted to read about them forever. But did it feel incomplete or rushed, as novellas sometimes do? Hell. No.
Carry Me Home was filled with all the things I loved about the first three Off the Map books. Humor, sass, some seriously steamy sex and a giant helping of angst and tension. Sunny and Tanner were perfectly imperfect; a little jaded, a lot guilty and completely unsure of themselves and each other. But Ms. Riley led them home in a believable, real and raw manner, and damn, if I didn't love every single second.
I can only hope that this series continues in some form in the future. Maybe for Beth, maybe more Sunny and Tanner, maybe more Talia and Bran. Whatever, however, whenever it (*fingers crossed*) happens, I'll be first in line to one-click. ~ Beth, 5 stars
~~~
More Carry Me Home, please! Damn, this book was sexy and sweet and quite literally unputdownable.
We first met Tanner and Sunny in Upside Down. Sunny is Talia’s plucky best friend and Tanner -- well, we didn’t really meet him, exactly. We heard about him and, frankly, we didn’t hear nice things.
I absolutely adored Sunny and Tanner together. I loved getting an inside look into some of the more catastrophic events that happened in Upside Down. I loved learning Tanner’s motivations and watching him evolve. I adored Sunny. She’s so broken and scared, but also tough and fiery.
These two together are combustible. Like, jaw open, tongue hanging out, breathing a little faster than what is normal – combustible.
This book ended too quickly for me. I could have read 500 more pages on this awesome couple! But I loved every page I got to read. ~ Shelly, 5 stars
August 23, 2015
What is this book that did not let me put it down until I finished? What is this couple that omg are so SO perfect? Good god. GOD.
“Shoot me, I like sex. If I wait for true love before getting busy, I’ll be covered in cobwebs, and that’s bad news for someone with arachnophobia.” - (ARC, Location 33)
You can’t not love a book that starts like this…you just can’t. You’re not allowed. And anyway it’s the Off The Map series so there’s no question of not loving anything.
Tanner Green has always been a mystery, and honestly, also kind of a dickhead. I mean, we learn about this guy at his absolute worst and needless to say, most Bran-Talia shippers have spent the entire series hating Tanner. And if you’re like me, you’ve been hating on him, while also drinking to Tanner because his stupidity single-handedly allowed Talia to make the decision to go to Australia, meet Bran, turn her life around.
But Carry Me Home showed Tanner Green—the boy on the cusp of adulthood, the guy instead of the asshole, the guy who often thought with his heart instead of his head. And it. was. glorious.
Sunny doesn’t do love, relationships, commitments. And yet, this book was about finding the right person, with whom you’d take whatever they gave you. Sunny was crass, funny and kind—everything I love in a character I’m reading. She wasn’t perfect, and she had her fair share of demons that held her back, but this was a girl who learned that conquering anything is possible with the right person by you. For some time, it was her grandmother Mimsy (who you’re going to fall in insta-love with, trust me) and then there was Tanner.
I didn’t think it would be quite possible for me to love any couple as much as I love Bran and Talia, and I don’t, but let me tell you, I could have. Tanner and Sunny would have been serious competition to Bran and Talia had the novella been a full length novel. They were explosive together, and their chemistry was what wet dreams are made of. Their respective histories were clearly outlined, and even though the book was far, far too short for my liking, there was a sense of rightness and closure when the book ended.
Carry Me Home was beautiful and refreshing, in that it was a story that showed an apparent “villain” in a whole new light. It had just the right amount of conflict to make it perfect and the perfect amount of heart to make yours melt <3
*I was provided a free ecopy of this book in exchange of an honest review. This did not in any way, however, influence the content of this review.*
“Shoot me, I like sex. If I wait for true love before getting busy, I’ll be covered in cobwebs, and that’s bad news for someone with arachnophobia.” - (ARC, Location 33)
You can’t not love a book that starts like this…you just can’t. You’re not allowed. And anyway it’s the Off The Map series so there’s no question of not loving anything.
Tanner Green has always been a mystery, and honestly, also kind of a dickhead. I mean, we learn about this guy at his absolute worst and needless to say, most Bran-Talia shippers have spent the entire series hating Tanner. And if you’re like me, you’ve been hating on him, while also drinking to Tanner because his stupidity single-handedly allowed Talia to make the decision to go to Australia, meet Bran, turn her life around.
But Carry Me Home showed Tanner Green—the boy on the cusp of adulthood, the guy instead of the asshole, the guy who often thought with his heart instead of his head. And it. was. glorious.
Sunny doesn’t do love, relationships, commitments. And yet, this book was about finding the right person, with whom you’d take whatever they gave you. Sunny was crass, funny and kind—everything I love in a character I’m reading. She wasn’t perfect, and she had her fair share of demons that held her back, but this was a girl who learned that conquering anything is possible with the right person by you. For some time, it was her grandmother Mimsy (who you’re going to fall in insta-love with, trust me) and then there was Tanner.
I didn’t think it would be quite possible for me to love any couple as much as I love Bran and Talia, and I don’t, but let me tell you, I could have. Tanner and Sunny would have been serious competition to Bran and Talia had the novella been a full length novel. They were explosive together, and their chemistry was what wet dreams are made of. Their respective histories were clearly outlined, and even though the book was far, far too short for my liking, there was a sense of rightness and closure when the book ended.
Carry Me Home was beautiful and refreshing, in that it was a story that showed an apparent “villain” in a whole new light. It had just the right amount of conflict to make it perfect and the perfect amount of heart to make yours melt <3
*I was provided a free ecopy of this book in exchange of an honest review. This did not in any way, however, influence the content of this review.*
May 5, 2015
I got way too excited when I realized that Lia Riley was adding a new novella to the Off The Map series! I love this series so much- Talia is one of my favorite female New Adult characters! So naturally any addition to such an incredible series was bound to make me crazy! Then I saw what the novella was about… I will admit I was confused a bit. If you have read the series then you know a bit about Tanner and Sunny. I was curious as to how those two ended up together, especially with who Tanner is and what happened with him in the series. But I put my faith in Lia and I was not disappointed.
CARRY ME HOME reads like a book. What I mean is sometimes when you read a novella you want more and need more, but Lia is able to take this short story and go so deeply in what is happening that, as the reader, you do not need a whole 300 pages to fall in love with their story. Sunny and Tanner seem to be opposite in every possible way. Watching them interact is like nails on a chalkboard with all the tension and hostility. When their past begins to unfold, things begin to make sense. I loved seeing their history and learning what these two were before life took a sudden turn. These two are perfect for each other but life interfered and their paths dissected.
As with every single one of Lia’s books, there are some surprises in the mix. I honestly had no idea what to expect and that fact alone made me fall in love with the story. So often books and novellas are so overdone and predictable, but not with Lia’s writings. There is always a fresh theme and perspective that I am not expecting, one that captivates my mind and heart.
The chemistry between Tanner and Sunny is HOT! It literally burns you while you read. These two must work through some pretty heavy issues but what is waiting on the other side is something so sweet and all consuming- a relationship that was always meant to be. This novella gives fans of the Off the Map series more about Tanner and Sunny that they are not expecting. The facts you learn in their story makes me want to go back and read the series again, with a new understanding of these secondary characters! This story is a beautiful tale of finding yourself again and reconnecting with the one that got away. There is beauty, life, and love abounding in this story and you will not want to miss it!
CARRY ME HOME reads like a book. What I mean is sometimes when you read a novella you want more and need more, but Lia is able to take this short story and go so deeply in what is happening that, as the reader, you do not need a whole 300 pages to fall in love with their story. Sunny and Tanner seem to be opposite in every possible way. Watching them interact is like nails on a chalkboard with all the tension and hostility. When their past begins to unfold, things begin to make sense. I loved seeing their history and learning what these two were before life took a sudden turn. These two are perfect for each other but life interfered and their paths dissected.
As with every single one of Lia’s books, there are some surprises in the mix. I honestly had no idea what to expect and that fact alone made me fall in love with the story. So often books and novellas are so overdone and predictable, but not with Lia’s writings. There is always a fresh theme and perspective that I am not expecting, one that captivates my mind and heart.
The chemistry between Tanner and Sunny is HOT! It literally burns you while you read. These two must work through some pretty heavy issues but what is waiting on the other side is something so sweet and all consuming- a relationship that was always meant to be. This novella gives fans of the Off the Map series more about Tanner and Sunny that they are not expecting. The facts you learn in their story makes me want to go back and read the series again, with a new understanding of these secondary characters! This story is a beautiful tale of finding yourself again and reconnecting with the one that got away. There is beauty, life, and love abounding in this story and you will not want to miss it!
August 29, 2015
This novella is fun addition to Lia Riley's
Off The Map Series
. It tells the story of one of Talia's best friends, Sunny, and one of the guys from Talia's past, Tanner. (Talia is the female lead in each of the full-length novels in this series.)
Tanner and Sunny have their own past together - they grew up together and used to be the best of friends. Tanner has always loved her, but she hurt him deeply when they were very young. He has never gotten over it nor has he gotten over her. Tanner went on to find success as a pro skateboarder; Sunny works in a natural food store and is happy living a very hippy-like, no-commitment lifestyle. After living a sort-of estranged life for a long time, Tanner comes back around and the two become re-acquainted.
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I'm so, so glad this story included Tanner. Throughout the series, he was talked about so much, and it wasn't usually pleasant. Talia had lingering issues with their last interaction, therefore my impression of him was not great for most of the series. However, at the end of the series + with the addition of this novella, there is amazing character redemption for Tanner, which I love. Not only do we get a backstory for his character, but we get a perspective from him on the last interaction he had with Talia plus he gives really great information about his relationship with Pippa (Talia's deceased sister), which I wasn't expecting! I feel like all of this was helpful for me and so much fell into place after hearing Tanner tell his story.
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This novella isn't super long, but I think it is worth buying and reading to go along with this series. Sunny and Tanner have good banter, there is humor, and apparently they have an ability to get themselves into sticky situations just like Talia and Bran.
I recommend Carry Me Home for fans of the Off The Map Series . I personally suggest that it be treated as an essential component to the series. I LOVED getting Tanner's side of things because character redemption is spectacular.
Tanner and Sunny have their own past together - they grew up together and used to be the best of friends. Tanner has always loved her, but she hurt him deeply when they were very young. He has never gotten over it nor has he gotten over her. Tanner went on to find success as a pro skateboarder; Sunny works in a natural food store and is happy living a very hippy-like, no-commitment lifestyle. After living a sort-of estranged life for a long time, Tanner comes back around and the two become re-acquainted.
----
I'm so, so glad this story included Tanner. Throughout the series, he was talked about so much, and it wasn't usually pleasant. Talia had lingering issues with their last interaction, therefore my impression of him was not great for most of the series. However, at the end of the series + with the addition of this novella, there is amazing character redemption for Tanner, which I love. Not only do we get a backstory for his character, but we get a perspective from him on the last interaction he had with Talia plus he gives really great information about his relationship with Pippa (Talia's deceased sister), which I wasn't expecting! I feel like all of this was helpful for me and so much fell into place after hearing Tanner tell his story.
----
This novella isn't super long, but I think it is worth buying and reading to go along with this series. Sunny and Tanner have good banter, there is humor, and apparently they have an ability to get themselves into sticky situations just like Talia and Bran.
I recommend Carry Me Home for fans of the Off The Map Series . I personally suggest that it be treated as an essential component to the series. I LOVED getting Tanner's side of things because character redemption is spectacular.
May 5, 2015
Carry Me Home was a great addition to the Off the Map series. This novella focuses on Tanner and Sunny and it was not short and sweet, but rather, a Sweet, HOT, and Wild ride.
I loved Sunny and how she was unapologetic about who she was. She wants more in life, but its hard for her to believe in more, so she plays off on things. Tanner, fortunately, knows this about her and refuses to be shoved away completely. I love how they are able to share private things with each other and also help each other find themselves.
Carry Me Home was beautiful and yet left you raw at times, imagining past hurts and pains. Sunny and Tanner both had internal revelations about guilt and things they were holding in and it showed how often we aren't real with ourselves, much less with what we show the world. But when someone sees you, the real you, its one of the most amazing things ever.
I was provided a copy of this book in exchange for a review. My thoughts are my own.
I loved Sunny and how she was unapologetic about who she was. She wants more in life, but its hard for her to believe in more, so she plays off on things. Tanner, fortunately, knows this about her and refuses to be shoved away completely. I love how they are able to share private things with each other and also help each other find themselves.
Carry Me Home was beautiful and yet left you raw at times, imagining past hurts and pains. Sunny and Tanner both had internal revelations about guilt and things they were holding in and it showed how often we aren't real with ourselves, much less with what we show the world. But when someone sees you, the real you, its one of the most amazing things ever.
I was provided a copy of this book in exchange for a review. My thoughts are my own.
May 5, 2015
Confession time. When I signed up for Lia Riley’s book blitzes, I was really more interested in her first novel Upside Down than I was in Carry Me Home. Part of it was the travel aspect in Upside Down. Another part was the cover (plus the cover blurb by Jennifer L. Armentrout because, hello, JLA!) The cover of Upside Down is so darn pretty, and Carry Me Home didn’t quite match up to it.
BUT. Its story more than made up for that. Or should I say that it was Lia’s writing that did the trick? Because her writing was really beautiful. I think that her talent shone even more in this novella than it did in Upside Down. It had me putting my Kindle’s highlight function to hard work, and that says a lot, ’cause I’m usually too lazy to do that. I couldn’t help it though. So many of Lia’s words resonated with me, simple they may be. Case in point:
Sunny and Tanner have plenty of unfinished business, both together and individually. Their pasts are so intertwined and their minds so attuned to each other that ignoring that invisible pull is impossible no matter how hard they try. And they did try to resist—Sunny in particular. She’s a little bit wild and a whole lot vulnerable, and after everything she’d experienced with her family, she isn’t one for putting her heart on the line.
Having read Upside Down prior to this, my initial impression of Tanner wasn’t a good one. But man, did Lia turn that upside down (haha, get it?!) Yes, he acted like a douche, but he owns up to it. He’s got just as much baggage as Sunny, though of a different kind, and I loved how he stood back up, both for himself and for Sunny.
Sunny and Tanner’s story is about second chances and about finding that reason to stand firm and fight. It’s undoubtedly sexy yet oh-so-sweet at the same time, and I totally ship this SunTan (just figured that one out this very second!) tandem. But more than that, I fell in love with Lia’s writing. I just had to say that again. I often feel that novellas are too short and that they keep me hanging, but Lia’s pacing was perfect, and the story stood spectacularly on its own. JLA praised Upside Down, saying that it gave her all the feels, and I echo that with respect to Carry Me Home. So much love for this novella.
*I received an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
**Review originally posted on www.WillReadforFeels.com
BUT. Its story more than made up for that. Or should I say that it was Lia’s writing that did the trick? Because her writing was really beautiful. I think that her talent shone even more in this novella than it did in Upside Down. It had me putting my Kindle’s highlight function to hard work, and that says a lot, ’cause I’m usually too lazy to do that. I couldn’t help it though. So many of Lia’s words resonated with me, simple they may be. Case in point:
But here’s the shitty thing about unfinished business. It’s still there even if you leave first or get in the last word.
Sunny and Tanner have plenty of unfinished business, both together and individually. Their pasts are so intertwined and their minds so attuned to each other that ignoring that invisible pull is impossible no matter how hard they try. And they did try to resist—Sunny in particular. She’s a little bit wild and a whole lot vulnerable, and after everything she’d experienced with her family, she isn’t one for putting her heart on the line.
Sunny is like her name. You can’t hope to hold sunshine. You can only bask in it for as long as it’s there.
Having read Upside Down prior to this, my initial impression of Tanner wasn’t a good one. But man, did Lia turn that upside down (haha, get it?!) Yes, he acted like a douche, but he owns up to it. He’s got just as much baggage as Sunny, though of a different kind, and I loved how he stood back up, both for himself and for Sunny.
He inhales as if I’m a secret flower. I wish I only ever bloomed for him.
Sunny and Tanner’s story is about second chances and about finding that reason to stand firm and fight. It’s undoubtedly sexy yet oh-so-sweet at the same time, and I totally ship this SunTan (just figured that one out this very second!) tandem. But more than that, I fell in love with Lia’s writing. I just had to say that again. I often feel that novellas are too short and that they keep me hanging, but Lia’s pacing was perfect, and the story stood spectacularly on its own. JLA praised Upside Down, saying that it gave her all the feels, and I echo that with respect to Carry Me Home. So much love for this novella.
Every place my fingers travel pulls from him a different sound. Together we compose something beautiful from the carnage in our lives.
*I received an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
**Review originally posted on www.WillReadforFeels.com
May 5, 2015
What I enjoyed most about this story was Tanner. He was a little broken, a little insecure and a whole lot in love with Sunny. I liked experiencing his vulnerability--seeing the real Tanner--warts and all and not who I had assumed he would be from reading previous books.
I liked Sunny as well and thought that she was the perfect partner for Tanner. Although jaded in terms of relationships with the opposite sex, she was strong and independent with a great sense of humor and a great big heart.
Tanner and Sunny had known each other since childhood but due to circumstances out of their control they lost touch to only reconnect later on. However, they were in different people then. Tanner had a girlfriend he loved and Sunny was already on her way on not giving a damn about relationships. Thankfully their bond was stronger that they thought and when the time came around again to reconnect they couldn't help but give in.
As a follower of the Off the Map series, I had gotten to know a bit about Tanner and Sunny. In truth, they didn't make a great impression on me. Then again maybe I was way too involved in Talia and Bran's relationship to give them proper attention. However, once I got to know them and what made them tick, I was immediately invested in their relationship.
I loved how Lia Riley r can simply (which I'm sure is not that simple for her!) bring two characters that are clearly different in many ways and shape them to be the perfect half for the other. I enjoyed watching how the connection they had shared years ago simply jumped off the page and how with every moment they shared together that connection grew even stronger.
I would have loved to read more about this couple but I am more than satisfied with this story. I loved the characters, the range in emotions, the candid moments and the chemistry Tanner and Sunny shared. Most of all I loved watching as these two allowed themselves to give love a try despite past relationships and insecurities.
All in all, a wonderful novella about second chances and finding your way 'home'.
*I received a copy of this title in exchange of my honest opinion.
I liked Sunny as well and thought that she was the perfect partner for Tanner. Although jaded in terms of relationships with the opposite sex, she was strong and independent with a great sense of humor and a great big heart.
Tanner and Sunny had known each other since childhood but due to circumstances out of their control they lost touch to only reconnect later on. However, they were in different people then. Tanner had a girlfriend he loved and Sunny was already on her way on not giving a damn about relationships. Thankfully their bond was stronger that they thought and when the time came around again to reconnect they couldn't help but give in.
As a follower of the Off the Map series, I had gotten to know a bit about Tanner and Sunny. In truth, they didn't make a great impression on me. Then again maybe I was way too involved in Talia and Bran's relationship to give them proper attention. However, once I got to know them and what made them tick, I was immediately invested in their relationship.
I loved how Lia Riley r can simply (which I'm sure is not that simple for her!) bring two characters that are clearly different in many ways and shape them to be the perfect half for the other. I enjoyed watching how the connection they had shared years ago simply jumped off the page and how with every moment they shared together that connection grew even stronger.
I would have loved to read more about this couple but I am more than satisfied with this story. I loved the characters, the range in emotions, the candid moments and the chemistry Tanner and Sunny shared. Most of all I loved watching as these two allowed themselves to give love a try despite past relationships and insecurities.
All in all, a wonderful novella about second chances and finding your way 'home'.
*I received a copy of this title in exchange of my honest opinion.
May 30, 2015
This is the first I’ve read of Lia Riley and this series – I assume Tanner and Sunny have had page time in previous books but I didn’t feel cheated or left out of their story. This is a quick novella with its ups and downs.
I started off by laughing. Sunny is having a one-night stand with some stoner guy, just to get off. She is in his race car bed and he says things like:
“Damn, girl, your belly button is fucking fresh.”
Giggle and snort. Don’t worry – it’s not the hero.
She really isn’t enjoying herself. But then someone opens the door and she sees Tanner standing in the hallway. She gets off on him watching her. Tanner and Sunny have had quite the history. They’ve known each other since they were kids, and have lusted after one another. But Tanner got involved with Sunny’s friend and feelings were hurt and communication was lost. They have a current love/hate relationship, with the emphasis on hate. They share a lot of history though and they come together in this story working through the pain of the past.
Sunny is a very “in your face” character. I’m not sure if it’s just Sunny or how the author writes in general, but she is loud. A little exhausting. Both of these characters felt young. Obviously, they are young, but it’s a new adult that I had a little bit of a harder time relating to. I’m not saying they are immature – but it’s a case of relating the characters situation to your own. I think everyone does this to some extent when they read. I love to read about unique living situations or characters that exhibit traits that are more foreign to me. To explore new situations. But with Sunny and sometimes Tanner, their story felt more chaotic. I had a hard time settling down with them. The only way I can explain it, like I said above, is that they were very loud coming off the page and that’s not my favorite way to spend time reading a book.
I also found the end to be a little over the top – I think we needed more page time to build up to the dramatic ending.
I’m not sure if this series is for me – I think this story provides a unique voice, just not a voice for me.
Rating: C
I started off by laughing. Sunny is having a one-night stand with some stoner guy, just to get off. She is in his race car bed and he says things like:
“Damn, girl, your belly button is fucking fresh.”
Giggle and snort. Don’t worry – it’s not the hero.
She really isn’t enjoying herself. But then someone opens the door and she sees Tanner standing in the hallway. She gets off on him watching her. Tanner and Sunny have had quite the history. They’ve known each other since they were kids, and have lusted after one another. But Tanner got involved with Sunny’s friend and feelings were hurt and communication was lost. They have a current love/hate relationship, with the emphasis on hate. They share a lot of history though and they come together in this story working through the pain of the past.
Sunny is a very “in your face” character. I’m not sure if it’s just Sunny or how the author writes in general, but she is loud. A little exhausting. Both of these characters felt young. Obviously, they are young, but it’s a new adult that I had a little bit of a harder time relating to. I’m not saying they are immature – but it’s a case of relating the characters situation to your own. I think everyone does this to some extent when they read. I love to read about unique living situations or characters that exhibit traits that are more foreign to me. To explore new situations. But with Sunny and sometimes Tanner, their story felt more chaotic. I had a hard time settling down with them. The only way I can explain it, like I said above, is that they were very loud coming off the page and that’s not my favorite way to spend time reading a book.
I also found the end to be a little over the top – I think we needed more page time to build up to the dramatic ending.
I’m not sure if this series is for me – I think this story provides a unique voice, just not a voice for me.
Rating: C
May 5, 2015
**ARC provided by publisher, in return for an honest review.**
☆☆☆☆☆ 4.5 Stars ☆☆☆☆☆
Once I started this book I couldn’t put it down. I love that it had the same feel as the OFF THE MAP series, I felt like I was just reading a continuation of it..which is kinda is.
This story is about one of Talia’s friend Sunny, a free-spirited chick who don’t do relationships. Who rather have hook ups with random guys with no strings attached, to keep everyone at arm's length. With her sad and disturbing childhood, who can blame her. As a young girl the only thing that kept her sane and normal was her friend Tanner. Until one mistake turned their whole world upside down. Instead of growing up close and maybe in love, they grew up apart and with hatred towards each other.
When Tanner takes a break from his busy skateboarding schedule, he comes back home and runs into Sunny. When Tanner offers his services to get Sunny for a visit to her mom, she had no choice but to agree. While holed in a cabin waiting for the next day drive, they had a long conversation about the past and present. One thing leads to another, they become close and spent the night in each others arms. Will that one night spark feelings they had tucked away from each other? Or will their hatred for each other become more evident? Read and find out.
In most stories the guy is usually the one with random hook ups, but not on this one. Sunny is the booty call kinda girl, while Tanner is the sweet and just wants to be love kinda guy. I love how they never got over each other, that no matter what they did, they still ended up with each other. This was a short and sweet read and will for sure melt anyone’s heart.
:::REVIEW IS ALSO ON FOUR CHICKS FLIPPING PAGES:::
http://fourchicksflippingpages.weebly...
☆☆☆☆☆ 4.5 Stars ☆☆☆☆☆
Once I started this book I couldn’t put it down. I love that it had the same feel as the OFF THE MAP series, I felt like I was just reading a continuation of it..which is kinda is.
This story is about one of Talia’s friend Sunny, a free-spirited chick who don’t do relationships. Who rather have hook ups with random guys with no strings attached, to keep everyone at arm's length. With her sad and disturbing childhood, who can blame her. As a young girl the only thing that kept her sane and normal was her friend Tanner. Until one mistake turned their whole world upside down. Instead of growing up close and maybe in love, they grew up apart and with hatred towards each other.
When Tanner takes a break from his busy skateboarding schedule, he comes back home and runs into Sunny. When Tanner offers his services to get Sunny for a visit to her mom, she had no choice but to agree. While holed in a cabin waiting for the next day drive, they had a long conversation about the past and present. One thing leads to another, they become close and spent the night in each others arms. Will that one night spark feelings they had tucked away from each other? Or will their hatred for each other become more evident? Read and find out.
In most stories the guy is usually the one with random hook ups, but not on this one. Sunny is the booty call kinda girl, while Tanner is the sweet and just wants to be love kinda guy. I love how they never got over each other, that no matter what they did, they still ended up with each other. This was a short and sweet read and will for sure melt anyone’s heart.
:::REVIEW IS ALSO ON FOUR CHICKS FLIPPING PAGES:::
http://fourchicksflippingpages.weebly...
May 3, 2015
Since reading Lia’s Off the Map series I’ve fallen in love with all her characters. From Talia and Bran to Sunny, Tanner, Beth and Z. I may not know much about the latter four but they just stole the scenes they were in and I was dying to learn more about them, their stories. In Carry Me Home we get to learn about Sunny and Tanner and I for one enjoyed the ride.
I cannot say enough how much I love strong female characters. They are one of my kryptonites because if I know there’s one out there, I have to read their book. Sunny fits the bill to a tee. She has no shame in who she is. She loves sex, knows who she is, her strengths, weaknesses and everything in between. I found myself falling so hard for her but probably because she reminds me a lot of me. Her journey was one that I’d love to read again. I loved how she grew to find herself more, to know what it is to open up to someone and learn what relationships are really about.
Don’t let my love for Sunny fool you about my enjoyment of Tanner. I loved learning about him and his story as well. I felt so much for him when he talked about his relationship with Pippa and how he just wanted to feel something. Carry Me Home is just as much Tanner’s journey as it is Sunny’s but I don’t think he had a much growing to do. I think his journey was more about forgiving himself, for realizing that there are just some things you cannot control and that’s okay.
Carry Me Home is a nice little story about two people who came together to heal. Sunny and Tanner are very strong people who needed to know that it’s okay to lean on someone when you need to. Their story is one for everyone and I loved reading about them.
I cannot say enough how much I love strong female characters. They are one of my kryptonites because if I know there’s one out there, I have to read their book. Sunny fits the bill to a tee. She has no shame in who she is. She loves sex, knows who she is, her strengths, weaknesses and everything in between. I found myself falling so hard for her but probably because she reminds me a lot of me. Her journey was one that I’d love to read again. I loved how she grew to find herself more, to know what it is to open up to someone and learn what relationships are really about.
Don’t let my love for Sunny fool you about my enjoyment of Tanner. I loved learning about him and his story as well. I felt so much for him when he talked about his relationship with Pippa and how he just wanted to feel something. Carry Me Home is just as much Tanner’s journey as it is Sunny’s but I don’t think he had a much growing to do. I think his journey was more about forgiving himself, for realizing that there are just some things you cannot control and that’s okay.
Carry Me Home is a nice little story about two people who came together to heal. Sunny and Tanner are very strong people who needed to know that it’s okay to lean on someone when you need to. Their story is one for everyone and I loved reading about them.
May 29, 2015
Tanner and Sunny have a history. Their mothers had a brief relationship before Sunny's mother married a horrible man. Because of that when they were thirteen years old Sunny and Tanner spent a lot of time together. They were meant to be each other's first kiss, but something traumatic changed things between them. A few weeks later Tanner was dating the most popular girl in school and his star was rising because of his skating.
Tanner is a professional skateboarder, but he isn't happy, because he doesn't think he deserves his career and reputation. Sunny has an art degree. She works in a health food store and in her spare time she's working on a graphic novel. Sunny likes having fun, she isn't a relationship girl at all. She likes to be in control and to be able to walk away without getting hurt. Tanner is a golden boy and he hasn't got much relationship experience. His first girlfriend died and after that he's only been with one girl and that was a stupid mistake. Sunny wants to let him know how bad he's messed up, how stupid he's been, but she doesn't count on having such strong feelings for him. She wants to walk away, but is that possible? Tanner wants her to stay, will he be able to convince her?
Carry Me Home is a great novella. I loved the Off The Map series. Sunny and Tanner are part of that, but it's just a small part, so this novella can be read as a stand alone. There's a lot of history and chemistry between Sunny and Tanner. Lia Riley always makes her sexy scenes meaningful and they're often decisive. I think it's great that Sunny and Tanner have their own story. I loved reading more about them and the story is a wonderful addition to the series.
Tanner is a professional skateboarder, but he isn't happy, because he doesn't think he deserves his career and reputation. Sunny has an art degree. She works in a health food store and in her spare time she's working on a graphic novel. Sunny likes having fun, she isn't a relationship girl at all. She likes to be in control and to be able to walk away without getting hurt. Tanner is a golden boy and he hasn't got much relationship experience. His first girlfriend died and after that he's only been with one girl and that was a stupid mistake. Sunny wants to let him know how bad he's messed up, how stupid he's been, but she doesn't count on having such strong feelings for him. She wants to walk away, but is that possible? Tanner wants her to stay, will he be able to convince her?
Carry Me Home is a great novella. I loved the Off The Map series. Sunny and Tanner are part of that, but it's just a small part, so this novella can be read as a stand alone. There's a lot of history and chemistry between Sunny and Tanner. Lia Riley always makes her sexy scenes meaningful and they're often decisive. I think it's great that Sunny and Tanner have their own story. I loved reading more about them and the story is a wonderful addition to the series.
June 7, 2015
Blog post: http://www.hopelessbooklovers.com/lau...
Lia Riley does it again! In this Off The Map novella, Lia Riley sheds some light on the much talked about Tanner Green and the outgoing and spunky, Sunny Letman.
If you’ve read the Off The Map series (if you haven’t, what are you waiting for?!) you’ve been waiting for Tanner’s story for what feels like forever, and trust me when I say you won’t be disappointed. Carry Me Home reveals so much about Tanner and Sunny’s characters, their past, and I love that everything really did come together, full circle, for them.
Lia Riley, once again, brings some hilarious one liners and Sunny’s character brings a whole lot of laughs with her witty, quirky comments. I mean when this:
“John Boy’s a dirty talker. Wasn’t expecting that. “I could stay inside your tight little cream pie forever.” Cream? You are under arrest for crimes against metaphors.”
is one of the first lines in a book, you know you’re in for a crazy ride.
Then, we have Tanner Green. Tanner Green can be considered the exact opposite of Sunny. Where she is crazy, he is calm. Where she is outgoing, he’s more reserved. But these two definitely have palpable chemistry and you’ll be rooting for them to be together throughout the novels entirety.
Carry Me Home was a perfect addition to the Off The Map series and I can’t wait to see what Lia has in store for us next!
Lia Riley does it again! In this Off The Map novella, Lia Riley sheds some light on the much talked about Tanner Green and the outgoing and spunky, Sunny Letman.
If you’ve read the Off The Map series (if you haven’t, what are you waiting for?!) you’ve been waiting for Tanner’s story for what feels like forever, and trust me when I say you won’t be disappointed. Carry Me Home reveals so much about Tanner and Sunny’s characters, their past, and I love that everything really did come together, full circle, for them.
Lia Riley, once again, brings some hilarious one liners and Sunny’s character brings a whole lot of laughs with her witty, quirky comments. I mean when this:
“John Boy’s a dirty talker. Wasn’t expecting that. “I could stay inside your tight little cream pie forever.” Cream? You are under arrest for crimes against metaphors.”
is one of the first lines in a book, you know you’re in for a crazy ride.
Then, we have Tanner Green. Tanner Green can be considered the exact opposite of Sunny. Where she is crazy, he is calm. Where she is outgoing, he’s more reserved. But these two definitely have palpable chemistry and you’ll be rooting for them to be together throughout the novels entirety.
Carry Me Home was a perfect addition to the Off The Map series and I can’t wait to see what Lia has in store for us next!
March 21, 2016
Original review posted at www.fictitiousdelicious.com on 05/01/15:
I'll admit that when I saw this book was about Tanner Green, I was a little nervous. Those of you who have read at least the first book in the Off the Map series know that Tanner isn't exactly the most noble man in Santa Cruz. But this is Lia freaking Riley we're talking about so OF COURSE YOU READ THE BOOK. I was so glad to find my nervousness squelched. Riley managed to make me fall for Tanner, a feat I thought darn near impossible.
You know who I loved even more than Tanner, though? Sunny Letman! We get to see so much more of her in this story and see first hand how easy it is to be in love with her. Her upbringing would have broken even the strongest heroine, but Sunny has managed to take control of her life and live it unapologetically. I think we all could benefit from that trait.
You know who I love even more than Sunny, though? Lia Riley herself. The writing is ace and the first chapter of this book is going down in history as the best first chapter of any other book in the world. My one complaint would be surrounding the conflict in this story. Believe me when I tell you it's INTENSE. Maybe too intense for a novella length story. I think details would have been flushed out better in a full length story, but *shrugs* whaddayagonnado? It is what it is.
There's another novella coming soon so keep your ears peeled for my screams of excitement when Beth and Z's story hits my Kindle.
I'll admit that when I saw this book was about Tanner Green, I was a little nervous. Those of you who have read at least the first book in the Off the Map series know that Tanner isn't exactly the most noble man in Santa Cruz. But this is Lia freaking Riley we're talking about so OF COURSE YOU READ THE BOOK. I was so glad to find my nervousness squelched. Riley managed to make me fall for Tanner, a feat I thought darn near impossible.
You know who I loved even more than Tanner, though? Sunny Letman! We get to see so much more of her in this story and see first hand how easy it is to be in love with her. Her upbringing would have broken even the strongest heroine, but Sunny has managed to take control of her life and live it unapologetically. I think we all could benefit from that trait.
You know who I love even more than Sunny, though? Lia Riley herself. The writing is ace and the first chapter of this book is going down in history as the best first chapter of any other book in the world. My one complaint would be surrounding the conflict in this story. Believe me when I tell you it's INTENSE. Maybe too intense for a novella length story. I think details would have been flushed out better in a full length story, but *shrugs* whaddayagonnado? It is what it is.
There's another novella coming soon so keep your ears peeled for my screams of excitement when Beth and Z's story hits my Kindle.
June 19, 2015
Tanner and Sunny at one time were best friends. Then unexpectedly, there were issues and they went their separate ways. These days Sunny doesn't worry about commitment. She loves sex and when the opportunity arises, she goes with it. Then she's the one to leave before anyone can leave her. Now Tanner walks back into her life and turns her world upside down. They apparently still have that connection they had long ago. Can she just walk away this time or will he walk away first?
Ms. Riley is an excellent author and I've loved each and every book in the Off The Map series. Carry Me Home is well worth the read. Yes, it can be read as a stand alone, but it's still really great to read it in it's particular order. Ms. Riley gives great detail and makes each character's feelings well and truly known and felt. Carry Me Home will have you riveted to each word and each page. It's well written and completely engrossing. The characters are emotional and heartfelt and I can't get enough of them. I haven't enjoyed a series this much in a long time and I hope it doesn't end any time soon. Carry Me Home is another Keeper! The whole darn series just has to be put on your MUST READ list!
5 Stars!
Ms. Riley is an excellent author and I've loved each and every book in the Off The Map series. Carry Me Home is well worth the read. Yes, it can be read as a stand alone, but it's still really great to read it in it's particular order. Ms. Riley gives great detail and makes each character's feelings well and truly known and felt. Carry Me Home will have you riveted to each word and each page. It's well written and completely engrossing. The characters are emotional and heartfelt and I can't get enough of them. I haven't enjoyed a series this much in a long time and I hope it doesn't end any time soon. Carry Me Home is another Keeper! The whole darn series just has to be put on your MUST READ list!
5 Stars!
June 9, 2015
Lia Riley time and time again makes me fall head over heels in love with her books.
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I adore the Off the Map series world. It's definitely one of my favorites. I fell in love so quickly and so sure the first time, I'm sure I will never get over any of them and their stories.
Carry Me Home is the story of Tanner and Sunny♡ They were ten times cute and hot, at the same time, everywhere, anytime. I always say Lia's writing is like magic in paper. She , somehow, writes in a way that the world she builts makes it seem you are there and you experience the same things her characters are experiencing. I am addicted to her writing and want more every. Damn. Time. I. Finish. Her. Books.
Give me more of these little stories and more Lia Riley's words and I will forever be happy. I so want to make a shirt with all my favorites quotes but that would be the whole book and
--------- ♡
I adore the Off the Map series world. It's definitely one of my favorites. I fell in love so quickly and so sure the first time, I'm sure I will never get over any of them and their stories.
Carry Me Home is the story of Tanner and Sunny♡ They were ten times cute and hot, at the same time, everywhere, anytime. I always say Lia's writing is like magic in paper. She , somehow, writes in a way that the world she builts makes it seem you are there and you experience the same things her characters are experiencing. I am addicted to her writing and want more every. Damn. Time. I. Finish. Her. Books.
Give me more of these little stories and more Lia Riley's words and I will forever be happy. I so want to make a shirt with all my favorites quotes but that would be the whole book and
April 22, 2015
*I will try to avoid spoilers.
Carry Me Home by Lia Riley
Sunny Letman is a hook up only kind of girl. No emotions involved just a good time.
Until, a moment of vulnerability brings her guard down when Tanner Green is around.
Tanner Green is a boy from her past who turned skateboard legend.
When Sunny's mother calls with an invite to attend a birthday party for Sunny's brothers, she jumps at the chance to meet them and to put some distance between her and Tanner.
However, life happens and Tanner makes an offer Sunny cannot refuse.
Will his offer bring them together or will Tanner just be another guy she walks away from?
I REALLY enjoyed this story! It was so nice getting to hear Tanner's side of the story and to find out more about Talia's friend and Talia's sister.
*Checkout and follow my blog:
http://wicked-blogs.blogspot.com
Carry Me Home by Lia Riley
Sunny Letman is a hook up only kind of girl. No emotions involved just a good time.
Until, a moment of vulnerability brings her guard down when Tanner Green is around.
Tanner Green is a boy from her past who turned skateboard legend.
When Sunny's mother calls with an invite to attend a birthday party for Sunny's brothers, she jumps at the chance to meet them and to put some distance between her and Tanner.
However, life happens and Tanner makes an offer Sunny cannot refuse.
Will his offer bring them together or will Tanner just be another guy she walks away from?
I REALLY enjoyed this story! It was so nice getting to hear Tanner's side of the story and to find out more about Talia's friend and Talia's sister.
*Checkout and follow my blog:
http://wicked-blogs.blogspot.com
May 12, 2015
I haven't read the Off the Map series yet (I know what in the hell is wrong with me. I mean, they're on my kindle so I should get to them!) but I loved this quick novella about Sunny and Tanner. They were childhood friends and were going to be each others first everything until a moment ruins it all.
I loved Sunny. She's young, living life and not committing to anything. She's having fun. I love reading about characters like her. Tanner has some secrets that no one has ever known (I should have started the series to see how much he has changed but I'm a slacker!) and they weigh heavily on him.
I really enjoyed this novella (which can be read as a standalone) and highly recommend it. Lia Riley's writing is hilarious and on point. Love her! <3
I loved Sunny. She's young, living life and not committing to anything. She's having fun. I love reading about characters like her. Tanner has some secrets that no one has ever known (I should have started the series to see how much he has changed but I'm a slacker!) and they weigh heavily on him.
I really enjoyed this novella (which can be read as a standalone) and highly recommend it. Lia Riley's writing is hilarious and on point. Love her! <3
April 13, 2015
Fun read! Review to come!
November 23, 2015
What a sweet lil novella for the side characters of the Off the Map series...I am in need to read the other novella too because I need more of this series in my life.
October 30, 2019
I really struggled to get into this story, and expected to have all the warm and fuzzy feels like I did with Bran and Talia’s romance. I think my expectations were set a bit too high. Overall not a bad book, but not my favourite from this author.
May 2, 2016
Review originally posted at Ramblings From This Chick
Carry Me Home is the newest story in the Off the Map series by Lia Riley. This novella takes place after the first three books, and can be read as a standalone. I would recommend reading these in order though, as you do get to know both Sunny and Tanner a little from the previous books and it helps to know some of what they have gone through. Tanner and Sunny had always thought that they would be each other's firsts. But things suddenly changed and they haven't spoken for years. Now, Tanner is back and Sunny finds her world turned upside down once again. The last thing she wants is to feel something for Tanner, especially since she doesn't do commitment. But Tanner isn't willing to let her go easily and is determined to show her that what they have is worth taking the risk.
We had seen some of both Tanner and Sunny in the previous books, but I felt like we didn't really know much about either of them. In fact I had no clue that these two had a past, and all I really remembered was Tanner's history with Talia and her sister Piper. But I really liked seeing how Sunny and Tanner had known one another as kids, and I really felt like they had been meant for one another all along. Since we never really saw all the details of Tanner's relationship with Piper, a lot came to light in this story and I felt bad for Tanner. I kind of thought he was a jerk after what had happened with him and Talia, and this book changed that for me. It was clear that we didn't have the whole story and I was glad that Lia Riley showed us more of what Tanner had been going through. I will say that I didn't really connect with Sunny, and I didn't like her for most of this story. I thought that she was pretty callous and she had an attitude that just didn't work for me. She was really mean to Tanner, and I felt like it wasn't justified at all. She had no clue what all he had been through, and he had never done anything to her personally for her to act the way she did. I will say that towards the end of the book she started to change and was better, but at that point I had already made up my mind about her and it was too little too late. I felt like these two should have been together all along and that they did have a connection, it was just an example of life getting in the way. It was nice to see them get a second chance though, and it was easy to see that they had great chemistry and cared about one another.
My biggest complaint with this story though was that I felt like the pacing was off for the entire book. Being a novella, I understand that things tend to happen rather quickly and I expect a bit of that. But the beginning of this one felt pretty slow to me, which only made the rapid change of feelings and personalities seem that much more rushed. With everything going on between these two and in their lives, the conflict and ending seemed to happen at almost warp speed and it felt like this one just ended. I think part of that was the fact that it was only at about 80% when it ended, with the last 20% being author stuff and previews. I felt like this book could have really benefited from a few extra chapters or an epilogue, something to give these two a bit more of an ending without it being so abrupt. While I have liked this series, the last few books haven't been as good in my opinion as the first book in this series. I loved that book so much, so I felt like these were all a bit of a let down coming off of that one. I think that fans of this series will enjoy getting to know Sunny and Tanner better, but if you haven't read the other books in this series I am not sure that I would recommend this one.
**ARC Provided by Forever (Grand Central Publishing)**
Carry Me Home is the newest story in the Off the Map series by Lia Riley. This novella takes place after the first three books, and can be read as a standalone. I would recommend reading these in order though, as you do get to know both Sunny and Tanner a little from the previous books and it helps to know some of what they have gone through. Tanner and Sunny had always thought that they would be each other's firsts. But things suddenly changed and they haven't spoken for years. Now, Tanner is back and Sunny finds her world turned upside down once again. The last thing she wants is to feel something for Tanner, especially since she doesn't do commitment. But Tanner isn't willing to let her go easily and is determined to show her that what they have is worth taking the risk.
We had seen some of both Tanner and Sunny in the previous books, but I felt like we didn't really know much about either of them. In fact I had no clue that these two had a past, and all I really remembered was Tanner's history with Talia and her sister Piper. But I really liked seeing how Sunny and Tanner had known one another as kids, and I really felt like they had been meant for one another all along. Since we never really saw all the details of Tanner's relationship with Piper, a lot came to light in this story and I felt bad for Tanner. I kind of thought he was a jerk after what had happened with him and Talia, and this book changed that for me. It was clear that we didn't have the whole story and I was glad that Lia Riley showed us more of what Tanner had been going through. I will say that I didn't really connect with Sunny, and I didn't like her for most of this story. I thought that she was pretty callous and she had an attitude that just didn't work for me. She was really mean to Tanner, and I felt like it wasn't justified at all. She had no clue what all he had been through, and he had never done anything to her personally for her to act the way she did. I will say that towards the end of the book she started to change and was better, but at that point I had already made up my mind about her and it was too little too late. I felt like these two should have been together all along and that they did have a connection, it was just an example of life getting in the way. It was nice to see them get a second chance though, and it was easy to see that they had great chemistry and cared about one another.
My biggest complaint with this story though was that I felt like the pacing was off for the entire book. Being a novella, I understand that things tend to happen rather quickly and I expect a bit of that. But the beginning of this one felt pretty slow to me, which only made the rapid change of feelings and personalities seem that much more rushed. With everything going on between these two and in their lives, the conflict and ending seemed to happen at almost warp speed and it felt like this one just ended. I think part of that was the fact that it was only at about 80% when it ended, with the last 20% being author stuff and previews. I felt like this book could have really benefited from a few extra chapters or an epilogue, something to give these two a bit more of an ending without it being so abrupt. While I have liked this series, the last few books haven't been as good in my opinion as the first book in this series. I loved that book so much, so I felt like these were all a bit of a let down coming off of that one. I think that fans of this series will enjoy getting to know Sunny and Tanner better, but if you haven't read the other books in this series I am not sure that I would recommend this one.
**ARC Provided by Forever (Grand Central Publishing)**
May 16, 2015
3.75 stars-
RELEASE DATE: May 5, 2015
Years ago, Tanner Green loved Sunny Letman. She was meant to be his first kiss, first love, first everything. Then their world spun upside-down and out of control.
Free-spirited Sunny doesn’t do commitment. Sure, guys are great for a night or a week, but she always leaves first. That is, until professional skateboarder and town golden boy, Tanner Green, unexpectedly walks back into her life.
Despite their broken history, a fragile and undeniably electric connection still holds them together. Now Tanner has to convince Sunny that even though love isn’t always perfect, it’s worth sticking around for. .
•••••••••••
REVIEW: 3.75 stars--CARRY ME HOME is a contemporary novella from Lia Riley’s Carry Me Home new adult, romance series that focuses on two people first introduced to in Talia and Bran’s storylines (Off The Map 1-3). Tanner Green is a professional skateboarder and the young man who all but destroyed Talia’s life, and Sunny Letman is the girl who has been in love with Tanner since they were thirteen years old. CARRY ME HOME can be read as a stand alone; any important information is revealed where necessary.
Told from alternating first person points of view (Tanner and Sunny) the storyline follows a second chance at friendship and love between our leading couple. At thirteen years of age, Tanner and Sunny were best friends, but a disastrous argument between Sunny and Tanner’s mothers found Sunny alone, without the young boy with whom she had fallen in love. Months later Sunny would discover that Tanner had found himself another girlfriend and Sunny would eventually become persona non grata. Fast forward several years, wherein, disaster would strike everyone concerned and Sunny hasn’t spoken to Tanner in close to two years. Both Tanner and Sunny have dark, secreted pasts that are addressed throughout the story.
CARRY ME HOME focuses on the rebuilding of a friendship; the heartbreak of loss; and the ability to forgive. Tanner’s storyline had been building throughout books one to three of Lia Riley’s Off The Map series where the reader is shown a different and possibly biased version of our storyline hero. Talia, her sister Pippa, and Tanner will forever be tied closely together, and in this there is some background to the storyline that reveals in CARRY ME HOME.
There are moments of heartbreak and loss; forgiveness and moving forward; romance and love. If you read Lia Riley’s OFF THE MAP series, you will definitely want to read CARRY ME HOME. CARRY ME HOME is a novella that focuses on a couple of the secondary and supporting characters, and INTO MY ARMS (September 2015) will focus on a couple more –Beth and Z.
Copy supplied by the publisher through Netgalley
www.thereadingcafe.com
RELEASE DATE: May 5, 2015
Years ago, Tanner Green loved Sunny Letman. She was meant to be his first kiss, first love, first everything. Then their world spun upside-down and out of control.
Free-spirited Sunny doesn’t do commitment. Sure, guys are great for a night or a week, but she always leaves first. That is, until professional skateboarder and town golden boy, Tanner Green, unexpectedly walks back into her life.
Despite their broken history, a fragile and undeniably electric connection still holds them together. Now Tanner has to convince Sunny that even though love isn’t always perfect, it’s worth sticking around for. .
•••••••••••
REVIEW: 3.75 stars--CARRY ME HOME is a contemporary novella from Lia Riley’s Carry Me Home new adult, romance series that focuses on two people first introduced to in Talia and Bran’s storylines (Off The Map 1-3). Tanner Green is a professional skateboarder and the young man who all but destroyed Talia’s life, and Sunny Letman is the girl who has been in love with Tanner since they were thirteen years old. CARRY ME HOME can be read as a stand alone; any important information is revealed where necessary.
Told from alternating first person points of view (Tanner and Sunny) the storyline follows a second chance at friendship and love between our leading couple. At thirteen years of age, Tanner and Sunny were best friends, but a disastrous argument between Sunny and Tanner’s mothers found Sunny alone, without the young boy with whom she had fallen in love. Months later Sunny would discover that Tanner had found himself another girlfriend and Sunny would eventually become persona non grata. Fast forward several years, wherein, disaster would strike everyone concerned and Sunny hasn’t spoken to Tanner in close to two years. Both Tanner and Sunny have dark, secreted pasts that are addressed throughout the story.
CARRY ME HOME focuses on the rebuilding of a friendship; the heartbreak of loss; and the ability to forgive. Tanner’s storyline had been building throughout books one to three of Lia Riley’s Off The Map series where the reader is shown a different and possibly biased version of our storyline hero. Talia, her sister Pippa, and Tanner will forever be tied closely together, and in this there is some background to the storyline that reveals in CARRY ME HOME.
There are moments of heartbreak and loss; forgiveness and moving forward; romance and love. If you read Lia Riley’s OFF THE MAP series, you will definitely want to read CARRY ME HOME. CARRY ME HOME is a novella that focuses on a couple of the secondary and supporting characters, and INTO MY ARMS (September 2015) will focus on a couple more –Beth and Z.
Copy supplied by the publisher through Netgalley
www.thereadingcafe.com
January 16, 2016
Find this review and more at
kimberlyfaye reads
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I loved Lia Riley's Off the Map series – Bran and Talia totally stole my heart. Now why, exactly, I didn't read the two accompanying novellas featuring some of my favorite secondary characters before now I'll never be able to explain. Too many books, too little time?I want to kick myself for waiting this long to read Carry Me Home. Even though I'm months late getting to it, I loved it. I only wish I'd read it sooner, because now all I want to do is binge the hell out of the entire series so I can see how all the pieces fit together with the story fresh in my mind.
Carry Me Home is the story of Sunny and Tanner and I absolutely adored both of them. I loved that Sunny was the more experienced one of the two and how she embraced her sexuality. Tanner was a great guy and I just wanted to cuddle him. Theirs is a second chance romance of sorts, as they were close friends who felt a great deal for each other when they were younger. But, as it often happens, they found themselves split by circumstances mostly out of their control... and some questionable choices by Sunny.
I loved watching them come together in this book. Their chemistry was off the charts. It was obvious there were some very real feelings between them, no matter how hard Sunny was trying to hide them. Tanner wore his heart on his sleeve and that gave me all the warm fuzzies. I love watching walls crumble and characters grow and I got both of those things in Carry Me Home. Oh, and with it all came some hot sexy scenes and quite a few feels.
This was a short novella and a really quick read and, if I'm honest, I'd still love more of these two. Not because it didn't feel complete, but because I'm greedy and I'd love to know what happens to them next.
I received a copy of this book from the publisher, via NetGalley, in exchange for an honest review.
FAVORITE QUOTES:
I loved Lia Riley's Off the Map series – Bran and Talia totally stole my heart. Now why, exactly, I didn't read the two accompanying novellas featuring some of my favorite secondary characters before now I'll never be able to explain. Too many books, too little time?I want to kick myself for waiting this long to read Carry Me Home. Even though I'm months late getting to it, I loved it. I only wish I'd read it sooner, because now all I want to do is binge the hell out of the entire series so I can see how all the pieces fit together with the story fresh in my mind.
Carry Me Home is the story of Sunny and Tanner and I absolutely adored both of them. I loved that Sunny was the more experienced one of the two and how she embraced her sexuality. Tanner was a great guy and I just wanted to cuddle him. Theirs is a second chance romance of sorts, as they were close friends who felt a great deal for each other when they were younger. But, as it often happens, they found themselves split by circumstances mostly out of their control... and some questionable choices by Sunny.
I loved watching them come together in this book. Their chemistry was off the charts. It was obvious there were some very real feelings between them, no matter how hard Sunny was trying to hide them. Tanner wore his heart on his sleeve and that gave me all the warm fuzzies. I love watching walls crumble and characters grow and I got both of those things in Carry Me Home. Oh, and with it all came some hot sexy scenes and quite a few feels.
This was a short novella and a really quick read and, if I'm honest, I'd still love more of these two. Not because it didn't feel complete, but because I'm greedy and I'd love to know what happens to them next.
I received a copy of this book from the publisher, via NetGalley, in exchange for an honest review.
FAVORITE QUOTES:
Tanner Green is turning me into something impossibly fragile, a line of moonlight slashing across the water.
My entire body is one furious clench as we gasp each other's names. We'll never be the same again. We each carry a piece of the other. The way he watches me, I know he's in this for a long time, not just a good time. And that idea doesn't seem so scary anymore. In fact, I can't wait.
Sunny is like her name. You can't hope to hold sunshine. You can only bask in it for as long as it's there. But the weather changes. There are storms. Night always follows day.
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