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The Risky Hearts Duet #2
Five Reasons To Go
One day a week. That was his rule. And it was also our downfall.
My marriage to Hank was one of convenience. When I got pregnant at sixteen, he took me in and kept a roof over my naïve head. We had an agreement—we could sleep with whomever we wanted so long as our children were kept in the dark. It worked great… until it didn’t.
Cocky Jack Swanson was never supposed to be mine. His marriage was open, but his heart was guarded… until he slowly let me in, revealing an alluring man with a painful past. With him, I felt what love could be. I felt wanted… needed. I’d never wanted to fall in love… but then I did.
And now… the rules have changed.
Jack isn’t the same man I fell for. Broken and gutted from his divorce, he’s a shell of who he once was. Sullen and worn down. I know I can bring the good in him back out, if only he’ll let me in. If only he’ll just stay, instead of giving me all his reasons to go.
My marriage to Hank was one of convenience. When I got pregnant at sixteen, he took me in and kept a roof over my naïve head. We had an agreement—we could sleep with whomever we wanted so long as our children were kept in the dark. It worked great… until it didn’t.
Cocky Jack Swanson was never supposed to be mine. His marriage was open, but his heart was guarded… until he slowly let me in, revealing an alluring man with a painful past. With him, I felt what love could be. I felt wanted… needed. I’d never wanted to fall in love… but then I did.
And now… the rules have changed.
Jack isn’t the same man I fell for. Broken and gutted from his divorce, he’s a shell of who he once was. Sullen and worn down. I know I can bring the good in him back out, if only he’ll let me in. If only he’ll just stay, instead of giving me all his reasons to go.
First published October 25, 2018
About the author
Candace Knoebel
25 books833 followersCandace Knoebel is a hopeless romantic with an affinity for whiskey and good music. Her love of words began when she met the boy who lived in the cupboard under the stairs. She's a self-proclaimed Lost Girl. Words are her mirror.
With two completed series, her work ranges from paranormal to contemporary, all centered heavily around romance.
Currently she lives in Florida with her husband and two children, and has just completed her thirteenth novel, The Taste of Her Words.
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With two completed series, her work ranges from paranormal to contemporary, all centered heavily around romance.
Currently she lives in Florida with her husband and two children, and has just completed her thirteenth novel, The Taste of Her Words.
VISIT MY AMAZON PAGE:
http://amzn.to/2iGv31S
VISIT MY FACEBOOK:
https://www.facebook.com/candaceknoebel
FOLLOW ME ON INSTAGRAM:
https://www.instagram.com/candaceknoebel
PINTEREST FUN:
https://www.pinterest.com/candaceknoe...
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 45 reviews
December 1, 2020
Book 2.
He’s a jerk with regrets. He treated his wife like crap, asked for an open marriage so he could openly cheat on his wife with the OW—he knows his wife doesn’t want this, but pushes it anyway. They set rules that he doesn’t follow and then gets jealous when he realizes who she’s cheating with, and then pushes to end the open arrangement.
So, when the marriage can’t be saved, he has no wife and no girl-friend, what he does have is regrets—too little, too late. The author tries too hard to make him likable.
All of this rehashed in the first quarter of this book. And, the rest of the book feels forced. He sinks into a depressed, hot mess, and 2 years later the OW comes back into his life and they find their HEA.
And, we get a happy little epilogue—both couples are now good friends... forced, really forced.
He’s a jerk with regrets. He treated his wife like crap, asked for an open marriage so he could openly cheat on his wife with the OW—he knows his wife doesn’t want this, but pushes it anyway. They set rules that he doesn’t follow and then gets jealous when he realizes who she’s cheating with, and then pushes to end the open arrangement.
So, when the marriage can’t be saved, he has no wife and no girl-friend, what he does have is regrets—too little, too late. The author tries too hard to make him likable.
All of this rehashed in the first quarter of this book. And, the rest of the book feels forced. He sinks into a depressed, hot mess, and 2 years later the OW comes back into his life and they find their HEA.
And, we get a happy little epilogue—both couples are now good friends... forced, really forced.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
October 28, 2018
I devoured Five Reasons to Stay, the first book in this series of standalone romances and I loved every second of it. So, of course, I couldn't wait to dive into Five Reasons to Go and see the other side of a story I thought I knew so well. Jack infuriated me in Corinne's book. He was never a character I thought I'd come to love. But I did really like him in this story. I just wish I had seen more of his perspective on the events in the early days. .
The first 25% of this book takes place as the events of book one are unfolding. In the first book, I saw the events evolve from Corinne's point of view, felt her pain as her husband asked for an open marriage, felt the attraction and chemistry growing between her and a new man outside of her own marriage. So I went into book two assuming I'd get to see Jack's perspective during that time, come to understand his mind set when he asked his wife for an open marriage, feel the attraction and chemistry growing between him and Jessica, the woman he met while he was still married. I didn't get that. I heard about it, but never felt it. There was an instalove vibe in this book that I just never bought into because I didn't see that development firsthand.
I definitely struggled with the fact that I needed more early on. I felt like things were so rushed in those early chapters and it kept this book from reading like a complete standalone. If you don't read Five Reasons to Stay first, I think you'll miss some pivotal details because this book is hurried in the beginning, glossing over scenes I feel are so important to the build up of the relationship between Jessica and Jack. I really needed more from the beginning. I wanted time to slow so I could feel the attraction evolving into more between these characters. I heard about it, but I never really felt it and that really kept me at arms length the entire book through.
The story does jump time eventually and the new phase of the relationship between these characters changes pace. It became an enjoyable read but because I didn't get a good feel for what first attracted them, I never really connected with the rest of the book unfortunately. I missed the chemistry, the romance, the angst of book one. I respect an author for not delivering more of the same, for changing gears and writing something different. But I really wanted more from this story, something deeper that would connect me to it in the same way I was with the first book. Im growing redundant but I needed more of Jack's perspective from when he met Jessica, how that early dynamic developed. I was never really able to buy into the relationship, into their love story, because pivotal details were glossed over. There was a lot more telling than showing in this book and because of that I was disconnected. I loved the first book so much, so of course I had such high hopes for this sequel. Sadly, I just came away conflicted
The first 25% of this book takes place as the events of book one are unfolding. In the first book, I saw the events evolve from Corinne's point of view, felt her pain as her husband asked for an open marriage, felt the attraction and chemistry growing between her and a new man outside of her own marriage. So I went into book two assuming I'd get to see Jack's perspective during that time, come to understand his mind set when he asked his wife for an open marriage, feel the attraction and chemistry growing between him and Jessica, the woman he met while he was still married. I didn't get that. I heard about it, but never felt it. There was an instalove vibe in this book that I just never bought into because I didn't see that development firsthand.
I definitely struggled with the fact that I needed more early on. I felt like things were so rushed in those early chapters and it kept this book from reading like a complete standalone. If you don't read Five Reasons to Stay first, I think you'll miss some pivotal details because this book is hurried in the beginning, glossing over scenes I feel are so important to the build up of the relationship between Jessica and Jack. I really needed more from the beginning. I wanted time to slow so I could feel the attraction evolving into more between these characters. I heard about it, but I never really felt it and that really kept me at arms length the entire book through.
The story does jump time eventually and the new phase of the relationship between these characters changes pace. It became an enjoyable read but because I didn't get a good feel for what first attracted them, I never really connected with the rest of the book unfortunately. I missed the chemistry, the romance, the angst of book one. I respect an author for not delivering more of the same, for changing gears and writing something different. But I really wanted more from this story, something deeper that would connect me to it in the same way I was with the first book. Im growing redundant but I needed more of Jack's perspective from when he met Jessica, how that early dynamic developed. I was never really able to buy into the relationship, into their love story, because pivotal details were glossed over. There was a lot more telling than showing in this book and because of that I was disconnected. I loved the first book so much, so of course I had such high hopes for this sequel. Sadly, I just came away conflicted
July 19, 2019
I would have liked to see the affair play out through the H’s eyes rather than the rush job it was given in the 15% it was allotted in this book. I felt nothing for him and realized he never made an effort to communicate with his wife (neither did the wife tho). I just don’t care if he’s redeemable. I think he fucked over everyone in the open entanglement and don’t care to read his HEA.
November 2, 2018
There are two sides to every story, right? And knowing this, I didn’t think I was truly prepared for the depth of feelings I had for Jack after his behavior in Ten Reasons to Stay. He was a terrible husband to Corrine, and I was thrilled Corrine found the strength to go after her happily ever after.
Enter Five Reasons to Go–Jack’s story. I wanted to hate him for what he put Corrine through. What a wreck he made of his marriage. But I couldn’t after reading his side and getting an opportunity to “see” his marriage from his point of view. All he wanted to do was make his wife happy, but he just didn’t go about it well. And that’s a gross understatement.
Five Reasons to Go moves through Jack and Corrine’s marriage and their breakup very quickly. But I did develop an appreciation for the place Jack was in in his heart and how he fell in love with Jessica during that time, and then his complete and utter breakdown after his marriage ended and how he ended things with Jessica.
Fast forward two years, and Jack has finally started to get his act together. He’s still quite a mess, but after reconnecting with Jessica, he’s actually finding joy in life again. And their relationship rekindles from there. Only problem is Jessica is still married. Still stuck in a loveless marriage to Hank (who’s a total bastard). But day by day, bit by bit, both Jack and Jessica become closer and stronger. And fall in love all over again. This time though, they both realize that they do deserve a happily ever after together. It’s ugly, it’s messy, it’s scary, but it’s all worth it in the end.
I truly enjoyed the unfolding of the romance between Jessica and Jack. That things were NOT as I perceived between them from Ten Reasons to Stay. Their romance was beautiful, strong and lovely. And that epilogue? Loved it! ~ Missy, 4.5 stars
Enter Five Reasons to Go–Jack’s story. I wanted to hate him for what he put Corrine through. What a wreck he made of his marriage. But I couldn’t after reading his side and getting an opportunity to “see” his marriage from his point of view. All he wanted to do was make his wife happy, but he just didn’t go about it well. And that’s a gross understatement.
Five Reasons to Go moves through Jack and Corrine’s marriage and their breakup very quickly. But I did develop an appreciation for the place Jack was in in his heart and how he fell in love with Jessica during that time, and then his complete and utter breakdown after his marriage ended and how he ended things with Jessica.
Fast forward two years, and Jack has finally started to get his act together. He’s still quite a mess, but after reconnecting with Jessica, he’s actually finding joy in life again. And their relationship rekindles from there. Only problem is Jessica is still married. Still stuck in a loveless marriage to Hank (who’s a total bastard). But day by day, bit by bit, both Jack and Jessica become closer and stronger. And fall in love all over again. This time though, they both realize that they do deserve a happily ever after together. It’s ugly, it’s messy, it’s scary, but it’s all worth it in the end.
I truly enjoyed the unfolding of the romance between Jessica and Jack. That things were NOT as I perceived between them from Ten Reasons to Stay. Their romance was beautiful, strong and lovely. And that epilogue? Loved it! ~ Missy, 4.5 stars
October 25, 2018
As soon as I was approved for an ARC of this novel, we picked up the previous novel in the series: Ten Reasons to Stay. When I finished reading Corrine's story, I was not looking forward to reading Jack's story. Jack was a complete tool. I'm glad I read both novels. Reading the first book gave me a better understanding about Jack--who he is where he comes from. It makes it easier in his novel to understand why he wants to change and never wants to be that guy again. In Jack's story: Five Reasons to Go, I had more sympathy for Jack because of everything he went through before with Corrine and after. Jack is flawed but still relatable.
Jack's story begins at the same point Corrine's story begins--with both of them together. But unlike Corrine's story, the reader is moved through those last few years with Corrine fairly quickly. I'm not sure if I would have understood everything that happened with Corrine had I not bought the previous novel. This part of the novel still paints Jack in a negative light even in his own story.
Jack Swanson has been married to Corrine since shortly after graduating college. The harder he works to appease her the worse their marriage gets. He has the brilliant idea of an open marriage. Every Thursday--home by midnight. No staying over and protection is a must! This concept blows up in his face when his wife falls in love with Cole (All of this in in the previous novel). Jack is a complete wreck after Corrine divorces him. He realizes how terrific his life really was with Corrine. He also realized how horrible of a person he was to Corrine and Jessica. How his actions have hurt both women.
Jessica has been stuck in a loveless marriage with a husband who constantly cheats on her. They don't even share a bedroom. Her husband is a good father--terrible husband. Her kids are the only reason why she stays. She has been with her husband Hank since she was 16--when he knocked her up and was kicked out of the house. Hank has been angry, distant, and abusive since.
She meets Jack in a bar. He makes her feel wanted--loved for the first time in her life. She knows that she can't keep Jack. Not even two years later when she finds out that Jack is divorced and living down the street from her.
Jack isn't the same man he was before. He's changed. No longer concerned about materialistic items or his stature in life after leaving his corporate life behind him. He now owns rental properties and maintains a simple life. Until he sees a facebook posting for Jessica's newly acquired women's shelter.
Jessica decides to go see Jack at the apartment they used to share two years ago on every Thursday. She kicks his act into shape. From then on Jack volunteers at Jessica's shelter every day. He spends as much time as possible with her. He still keeps a bit of himself guarded. Jessica is even more guarded than Jack. Once she finally gains the courage to leave Hank. But can she let Jack into her heart? Does Jack still not want children as he did before? How will her kids feel about a new man in her and their lives so shortly after their separation?
Jack's story begins at the same point Corrine's story begins--with both of them together. But unlike Corrine's story, the reader is moved through those last few years with Corrine fairly quickly. I'm not sure if I would have understood everything that happened with Corrine had I not bought the previous novel. This part of the novel still paints Jack in a negative light even in his own story.
Jack Swanson has been married to Corrine since shortly after graduating college. The harder he works to appease her the worse their marriage gets. He has the brilliant idea of an open marriage. Every Thursday--home by midnight. No staying over and protection is a must! This concept blows up in his face when his wife falls in love with Cole (All of this in in the previous novel). Jack is a complete wreck after Corrine divorces him. He realizes how terrific his life really was with Corrine. He also realized how horrible of a person he was to Corrine and Jessica. How his actions have hurt both women.
Jessica has been stuck in a loveless marriage with a husband who constantly cheats on her. They don't even share a bedroom. Her husband is a good father--terrible husband. Her kids are the only reason why she stays. She has been with her husband Hank since she was 16--when he knocked her up and was kicked out of the house. Hank has been angry, distant, and abusive since.
She meets Jack in a bar. He makes her feel wanted--loved for the first time in her life. She knows that she can't keep Jack. Not even two years later when she finds out that Jack is divorced and living down the street from her.
Jack isn't the same man he was before. He's changed. No longer concerned about materialistic items or his stature in life after leaving his corporate life behind him. He now owns rental properties and maintains a simple life. Until he sees a facebook posting for Jessica's newly acquired women's shelter.
Jessica decides to go see Jack at the apartment they used to share two years ago on every Thursday. She kicks his act into shape. From then on Jack volunteers at Jessica's shelter every day. He spends as much time as possible with her. He still keeps a bit of himself guarded. Jessica is even more guarded than Jack. Once she finally gains the courage to leave Hank. But can she let Jack into her heart? Does Jack still not want children as he did before? How will her kids feel about a new man in her and their lives so shortly after their separation?
October 28, 2018
Firstly, when I found out there was a second book, that Ten Reasons To Stay was a part of a duet, I was thrilled because I loved the story. But had no idea whatsoever, that book two would be Jacks' story, well mostly Jacks story. I couldn't fathom that I'd care anything about his point of view to the dissolution if his marriage. He was no hero in my eyes, and I was happy with the outcome. Five Reasons To Go shares in the angsty intensity TRTS holds, but this story is about Jessica, and I had enough curiosity about her that I was eager to find out where she was coming from, and what her relationship with Jack was like.
Candace Knoebel does justice to the story in that FRTG is not a retelling of Jack's and Corinne's marriage, from Jack's POV, plus the inclusion of Jessicas' story. While there are a few scenes early on, they do add a level of understanding to what Jack was feeling with Corinne, but mostly this really is Jessica's tale and her life with Hank - and with that, Jack is completely redeemed.
I thoroughly enjoyed this story. There are some incredibly hard moments as we come to understand how Jess and Hank came to be a couple. Hank is not a nice person and the happiness she finds with Jack shows us a dynamic and strong woman. She and Jack really are made for each other. What come to understand what motivates Jack and how Jessica inspires him:
"She was the kind of beautiful that beamed from the inside out. The untouchable kind that burned me in all the best ways. Being around her made me want to be a better man . Made me feel like hope still existed."
Again, there are some hard, scary moments but Jessica and Jack have a connection that promises a lifelong happiness. I highly recommend this book and this duet. It's emotional and a story about second chances in life and love. 4.5 Stars!
* I was gifted a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review*
Candace Knoebel does justice to the story in that FRTG is not a retelling of Jack's and Corinne's marriage, from Jack's POV, plus the inclusion of Jessicas' story. While there are a few scenes early on, they do add a level of understanding to what Jack was feeling with Corinne, but mostly this really is Jessica's tale and her life with Hank - and with that, Jack is completely redeemed.
I thoroughly enjoyed this story. There are some incredibly hard moments as we come to understand how Jess and Hank came to be a couple. Hank is not a nice person and the happiness she finds with Jack shows us a dynamic and strong woman. She and Jack really are made for each other. What come to understand what motivates Jack and how Jessica inspires him:
"She was the kind of beautiful that beamed from the inside out. The untouchable kind that burned me in all the best ways. Being around her made me want to be a better man . Made me feel like hope still existed."
Again, there are some hard, scary moments but Jessica and Jack have a connection that promises a lifelong happiness. I highly recommend this book and this duet. It's emotional and a story about second chances in life and love. 4.5 Stars!
* I was gifted a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review*
November 1, 2018
I absolutely loved the first book in The Risky Hearts duet, Ten Reasons to Stay. I devoured it. I was not as excited about Five Reasons To Go, the second book in the duet, because Jack was not very likeable in the first, however, we get a lot more insight on him and how his choices affected his future.
We know it was his choice to have an open marriage, but here we get to see how the divorce has affected his life. He is living a completely life than before. But can he be a good man to a different woman and give her what she needs? Jessica has been in a loveless marriage with a man who could be cruel. Jack makes her feel wanted and desired, but she has her children to think about as well.
Five Reasons To Go by Candace Knoebel was emotional and sweet. It was about second chances and new beginnings. I loved how strong Jessica was and how caring Jack could be.
Read and reviewed for Sultry Sirens Book Blog.
Happy reading!
We know it was his choice to have an open marriage, but here we get to see how the divorce has affected his life. He is living a completely life than before. But can he be a good man to a different woman and give her what she needs? Jessica has been in a loveless marriage with a man who could be cruel. Jack makes her feel wanted and desired, but she has her children to think about as well.
Five Reasons To Go by Candace Knoebel was emotional and sweet. It was about second chances and new beginnings. I loved how strong Jessica was and how caring Jack could be.
Read and reviewed for Sultry Sirens Book Blog.
Happy reading!
November 17, 2019
Wasn't as amazing as the first book, but was a good reading.
I hated Jack in the first book, so I kinda of didn't find the strength or the pleasure to connect with him.
Jessica was a different situation.
I fell sorry for all the shit that happens in her life, but also I wanted to shake her to be better to herself. She just accept everything that everyone was throwing up on her direction, and that's really annoying.
The plot twist wasn't bad, but was predictable.
The epilogue thou really make me smile.
I hated Jack in the first book, so I kinda of didn't find the strength or the pleasure to connect with him.
Jessica was a different situation.
I fell sorry for all the shit that happens in her life, but also I wanted to shake her to be better to herself. She just accept everything that everyone was throwing up on her direction, and that's really annoying.
The plot twist wasn't bad, but was predictable.
The epilogue thou really make me smile.
November 8, 2018
Not what I expected
I wasn’t sure if I wanted to read Jack’s story. I didn’t think it needed one BUT it was so very different from what I thought it would be and I thoroughly enjoyed every minute.
I wasn’t sure if I wanted to read Jack’s story. I didn’t think it needed one BUT it was so very different from what I thought it would be and I thoroughly enjoyed every minute.
October 30, 2018
Review coming soon!
November 13, 2018
This was so good! That ending was one of my favorites, ever! I HIGHLY RECOMMEND THIS BOOK/SERIES!
October 30, 2018
Book one in this duet, 10 Reasons to Stay, blew my mind. It sucked me in from the beginning and didn't let me go until long after the final page was read.
That book was Corrinne's book. This book is Jack's book.
Jack was Corrinne's husband.
Jack was the one who wanted an open marriage. Jack was a complete bellend.
I really didn't like Jack in 10 Reasons to Stay so really didn't have high hopes for how this book would play out... But I was curious.
So, I read and I have to say that it wasn't what I expected.
The first quarter of 5 Reasons to Go was pretty disappointing. It was essentially 10 Reasons to Stay from Jack and Jessica's pov but presented in a way that felt like I was sitting down with an acquaintance who was trying to catch me up on their life over a quick cup of coffee. It was all tell, tell, tell there was no show. No emotion. It caught the reader up to speed on Jack and Jessica's history but it lacked the addictive and persuasive writing of the first book.
However, everything changed when "2 years later" appeared at the beginning of a new chapter.
It was then that this story truly began.
Two years after the events of 10 Reasons to Stay, Jack is a complete mess, struggling with what happened to his marriage, his choices, past behaviors and the loss of Jessica.
Jess is living her life, going through the motions in a loveless marriage (in name only) and dreaming of a time when she will be free while still mourning the loss of Jack.
I wasn't a huge fan of either character up to this point but as the book moved on in the present (aka 'two years later') I came to really like and appreciate Jess's character.
She made a silly mistake as a teenager in thinking she was in love with an older man. She ended up pregnant and outcast by her family. She married the older man and lived in a loveless and sometimes violent marriage to provide stability and a home for her daughter and - later - her son. Over the years she made something of herself, ran a successful business, purchased a women's shelter to prevent it closing and then found the courage to stand on her own, kick an abusive husband to the curb and to go after the love of her life.
There was a lot to like and admire and I was rooting for her to find her happy ever after in whatever form that took.
Jack's growth throughout the book was impressive.
He went from a selfish, neglectful, thoughtless asshat to broken wastrel then to kind, thoughtful philanthropist. He became a loving, faithful partner who never takes a second of his happiness - or his partner's happiness - for granted. He fully acknowledged his past mistakes and failings and refused to repeat them. In the end, I admired Jack and even liked him a lot.
5 Reasons to Go didn't pack the emotional punch of 10 Reasons to Stay but in the end it was a pretty good read and it rounded off the duet nicely.
It won't be a favourite but I enjoyed it.
That book was Corrinne's book. This book is Jack's book.
Jack was Corrinne's husband.
Jack was the one who wanted an open marriage. Jack was a complete bellend.
I really didn't like Jack in 10 Reasons to Stay so really didn't have high hopes for how this book would play out... But I was curious.
So, I read and I have to say that it wasn't what I expected.
The first quarter of 5 Reasons to Go was pretty disappointing. It was essentially 10 Reasons to Stay from Jack and Jessica's pov but presented in a way that felt like I was sitting down with an acquaintance who was trying to catch me up on their life over a quick cup of coffee. It was all tell, tell, tell there was no show. No emotion. It caught the reader up to speed on Jack and Jessica's history but it lacked the addictive and persuasive writing of the first book.
However, everything changed when "2 years later" appeared at the beginning of a new chapter.
It was then that this story truly began.
Two years after the events of 10 Reasons to Stay, Jack is a complete mess, struggling with what happened to his marriage, his choices, past behaviors and the loss of Jessica.
Jess is living her life, going through the motions in a loveless marriage (in name only) and dreaming of a time when she will be free while still mourning the loss of Jack.
I wasn't a huge fan of either character up to this point but as the book moved on in the present (aka 'two years later') I came to really like and appreciate Jess's character.
She made a silly mistake as a teenager in thinking she was in love with an older man. She ended up pregnant and outcast by her family. She married the older man and lived in a loveless and sometimes violent marriage to provide stability and a home for her daughter and - later - her son. Over the years she made something of herself, ran a successful business, purchased a women's shelter to prevent it closing and then found the courage to stand on her own, kick an abusive husband to the curb and to go after the love of her life.
There was a lot to like and admire and I was rooting for her to find her happy ever after in whatever form that took.
Jack's growth throughout the book was impressive.
He went from a selfish, neglectful, thoughtless asshat to broken wastrel then to kind, thoughtful philanthropist. He became a loving, faithful partner who never takes a second of his happiness - or his partner's happiness - for granted. He fully acknowledged his past mistakes and failings and refused to repeat them. In the end, I admired Jack and even liked him a lot.
5 Reasons to Go didn't pack the emotional punch of 10 Reasons to Stay but in the end it was a pretty good read and it rounded off the duet nicely.
It won't be a favourite but I enjoyed it.
November 19, 2018
*Received an advanced copy in exchange for an honest review.
Going into this book I was excited because I loved the first one, Ten Reasons to Stay. I wanted to know the story of Jack and Jess and what their storyline was during the time of Corinne and Cole. I was also the smallest bit apprehensive as well because in the first book I hated Jack and Jess with a passion. I was worried I might not like this book because I didn’t like them. Let me tell you right now, that is not the case.
Everything about Jess’s story had me loving her from the start. The fact that she was able to be this incredible person devoting her life to her children and other women no matter her situation with Hank was admirable. She was such a strong female character.
In Ten Reasons to Stay, I wanted to push Jack in front of a truck. I couldn’t stand him. He was a crap husband to Corinne. Although I wouldn’t excuse him completely, I did understand him much better in Five Reasons to Go. And I will say, without spoiling anything, that the character development Jack goes through in this book is top notch.
Jess’ kids were the best. At the end of the day they always had Jess’ back no matter what and recognized how much of her life she devoted to making sure that they were happy and weren’t subjected to the things going on between her and Hank. She wanted them to have the most normal childhood and I’m glad they appreciated her and the good man that Jack was as well.
Comparing the writing to the first book, I didn’t like this one as much. The super loved up moments between Jack and Jess or the sad moments when they were apart were written so dramatically. At many points it felt like every second sentence was a simile and it was killing me. They love each other or they’re sad not being together. We get it.
At first I got a bit scared with the plot because it went over the moments that coincided with Corinne and Jack’s story so quickly. But the more I read the novel and realized how much of Jack and Jess’ story came after Corinne and Cole, I understood. As I read further into the book, it made complete sense, and I’m glad that she ended up writing their story this way.
My one thing with the pacing was that sometimes it seemed to go by slow and at other times the book was skipping ahead by weeks or months. It was a little bit everywhere during the beginning when it briefly went over the parts that coincided with Ten Reasons to Stay and then really jumped back and forth when it was about two years after the first novel.
Overall, I would say this was a good finale to the Risky Hearts Duet. Despite a few issues with the writing and the pacing, it helped put the whole story together in a satisfying way.
Review originally posted at A Lovely Book Affair.
Going into this book I was excited because I loved the first one, Ten Reasons to Stay. I wanted to know the story of Jack and Jess and what their storyline was during the time of Corinne and Cole. I was also the smallest bit apprehensive as well because in the first book I hated Jack and Jess with a passion. I was worried I might not like this book because I didn’t like them. Let me tell you right now, that is not the case.
Everything about Jess’s story had me loving her from the start. The fact that she was able to be this incredible person devoting her life to her children and other women no matter her situation with Hank was admirable. She was such a strong female character.
In Ten Reasons to Stay, I wanted to push Jack in front of a truck. I couldn’t stand him. He was a crap husband to Corinne. Although I wouldn’t excuse him completely, I did understand him much better in Five Reasons to Go. And I will say, without spoiling anything, that the character development Jack goes through in this book is top notch.
Jess’ kids were the best. At the end of the day they always had Jess’ back no matter what and recognized how much of her life she devoted to making sure that they were happy and weren’t subjected to the things going on between her and Hank. She wanted them to have the most normal childhood and I’m glad they appreciated her and the good man that Jack was as well.
Comparing the writing to the first book, I didn’t like this one as much. The super loved up moments between Jack and Jess or the sad moments when they were apart were written so dramatically. At many points it felt like every second sentence was a simile and it was killing me. They love each other or they’re sad not being together. We get it.
At first I got a bit scared with the plot because it went over the moments that coincided with Corinne and Jack’s story so quickly. But the more I read the novel and realized how much of Jack and Jess’ story came after Corinne and Cole, I understood. As I read further into the book, it made complete sense, and I’m glad that she ended up writing their story this way.
My one thing with the pacing was that sometimes it seemed to go by slow and at other times the book was skipping ahead by weeks or months. It was a little bit everywhere during the beginning when it briefly went over the parts that coincided with Ten Reasons to Stay and then really jumped back and forth when it was about two years after the first novel.
Overall, I would say this was a good finale to the Risky Hearts Duet. Despite a few issues with the writing and the pacing, it helped put the whole story together in a satisfying way.
Review originally posted at A Lovely Book Affair.
October 23, 2018
Reviewed on behalf of The Book Boyfriend Addict. A complimentary copy was provided in exchange for an honest review.
Note: This review contains a minor spoiler for the first book in the duet, Ten Reasons to Stay.
For the first time in my life, I knew what it felt like to be loved by a man. To be treated like a prize rather than a convenience.
Well, you know what they say, there are two sides to every story. In the first book of this duet we get Corinne’s side, and in this one, we get Jack’s side. While this book could technically stand alone, I definitely think that you’ll get more out of it if you read Ten Reasons to Stay first. The first 20% or so overlaps with that book and covers a lot of ground, so it goes pretty fast and I don’t think you’ll fully appreciate Jack and Jessica’s relationship unless you have the context from the first book. That being said, this was an interesting read for me because even though Jack wasn’t exactly a villain in the first book, he sort of became one in my head and those feelings extended toward Jessica just by association. So to suddenly have to rearrange those thoughts in my head was a little challenging for me. I was very resistant to roll out the red carpet for either of these characters for some reason. But little by little I did find myself softening toward them as the story went on. Even though I made her out to be a bad guy in my head after the first book, it helped to see her side of things in this book for it to really sink in that she was actually a good person. Jack, however, had definitely lost his way and there really was considerable growth over the course of this book, which I really enjoyed. Overall this was a nice story, there was angst and some drama surrounding Jessica’s situation, even though I found that some things seemed to fall into place a little too neatly along the way. If you’ve read Ten Reasons to Stay I really think you should read this one, it’s always interesting to get the other side of the story! Plus there was a really sweet epilogue that tied both halves together quite sweetly!
“Maybe… maybe we’re all just comets, waiting for the right person to collide with to form something new and beautiful.”
I smiled at her, exhaling. “I just wish my comet had crashed into yours all those years ago.”
Note: This review contains a minor spoiler for the first book in the duet, Ten Reasons to Stay.
For the first time in my life, I knew what it felt like to be loved by a man. To be treated like a prize rather than a convenience.
Well, you know what they say, there are two sides to every story. In the first book of this duet we get Corinne’s side, and in this one, we get Jack’s side. While this book could technically stand alone, I definitely think that you’ll get more out of it if you read Ten Reasons to Stay first. The first 20% or so overlaps with that book and covers a lot of ground, so it goes pretty fast and I don’t think you’ll fully appreciate Jack and Jessica’s relationship unless you have the context from the first book. That being said, this was an interesting read for me because even though Jack wasn’t exactly a villain in the first book, he sort of became one in my head and those feelings extended toward Jessica just by association. So to suddenly have to rearrange those thoughts in my head was a little challenging for me. I was very resistant to roll out the red carpet for either of these characters for some reason. But little by little I did find myself softening toward them as the story went on. Even though I made her out to be a bad guy in my head after the first book, it helped to see her side of things in this book for it to really sink in that she was actually a good person. Jack, however, had definitely lost his way and there really was considerable growth over the course of this book, which I really enjoyed. Overall this was a nice story, there was angst and some drama surrounding Jessica’s situation, even though I found that some things seemed to fall into place a little too neatly along the way. If you’ve read Ten Reasons to Stay I really think you should read this one, it’s always interesting to get the other side of the story! Plus there was a really sweet epilogue that tied both halves together quite sweetly!
“Maybe… maybe we’re all just comets, waiting for the right person to collide with to form something new and beautiful.”
I smiled at her, exhaling. “I just wish my comet had crashed into yours all those years ago.”
October 25, 2018
When a teenage crush lead to a pregnancy at age sixteen Jessica found herself at the mercy of the child's much older father Hank. Even though he just saw her and the child as an inconvenience, he convinced her to marry him, making her believe it was the best thing for all of them. When in reality it was nothing but a disaster, her marriage is a sham, and her husband is an abusive drunk who has trouble being faithful. Then she meets Jack, he is everything her husband isn't, and for the first time in her life she learns what it feels like to be truly loved. Problem is Jack belongs to someone else... his wife.
Once upon a time Jack Swanson was madly in love with his wife, but somewhere along the line they began to drift apart. Rather than give up on their marriage, they decided to try something a little unconventional, and have an open marriage. At first their little plan worked like a charm, it gave them the excitement their marriage was lacking. But, it also brought along a whole new host of issues, issues that ultimately lead to a divorce. Now Jack is a broken, lonely man, who has lost everything... but one little chance encounter is about to lead him down a new path.
Five Reasons To Go is the flip side of Ten Reasons to Stay, giving you the story from Jack's perspective. I am glad the author decided to approach the story of this couple in this manner, because when I read the first installment I developed such a huge dislike for Jack, which made it hard to connect with him. So, it was nice to see things through his eyes, get a better feel of where he was coming from, and see him redeem himself a little. As I read his story I began to have empathy for him, which is something I didn't think was possible, but I did, and I also began to have hope that the one time "bad guy" would find a little happiness of his own. I highly encourage readers to go into these stories with an open mind, because it will allow you to fully appreciate the characters and their unique situation. I really enjoyed both of these stories, they were captivating, heartfelt, and beautifully crafted!
I requested an advanced copy of this title, and I am voluntarily leaving my honest opinion.
Once upon a time Jack Swanson was madly in love with his wife, but somewhere along the line they began to drift apart. Rather than give up on their marriage, they decided to try something a little unconventional, and have an open marriage. At first their little plan worked like a charm, it gave them the excitement their marriage was lacking. But, it also brought along a whole new host of issues, issues that ultimately lead to a divorce. Now Jack is a broken, lonely man, who has lost everything... but one little chance encounter is about to lead him down a new path.
Five Reasons To Go is the flip side of Ten Reasons to Stay, giving you the story from Jack's perspective. I am glad the author decided to approach the story of this couple in this manner, because when I read the first installment I developed such a huge dislike for Jack, which made it hard to connect with him. So, it was nice to see things through his eyes, get a better feel of where he was coming from, and see him redeem himself a little. As I read his story I began to have empathy for him, which is something I didn't think was possible, but I did, and I also began to have hope that the one time "bad guy" would find a little happiness of his own. I highly encourage readers to go into these stories with an open mind, because it will allow you to fully appreciate the characters and their unique situation. I really enjoyed both of these stories, they were captivating, heartfelt, and beautifully crafted!
I requested an advanced copy of this title, and I am voluntarily leaving my honest opinion.
October 26, 2018
I loathed Jack in the first book in this series, Ten Reasons to Stay. He was godawful. I was convinced there was no way he could ever be redeemed in my eyes, so I was very leery about reading this book. I’m glad I did, and though I’m not sure I’d ever choose Team Jack over Team Corinne, he was able to win a piece of my heart I wasn’t sure I could give him.
I am exceedingly happy that the timelines of Five Reasons and Ten Reasons weren’t entirely concurrent. Jack needed redemption and I don’t think going through all the pain and frustration he cause Corinne and Cole would have allowed him the room he needed to overcome those wrongs. I was happy to see that timeline condensed into a few chapters where we got to see the first building blocks of their relationship, while not delving too extensively into the details of the demise of Jack and Corinne’s relationship from his side.
Jack and Jessica were lovely together. They were both so broken, especially once they reconnected, I’m not sure if either of them would have been able to pull themselves together had they not had one another. They gave each other the strength and support they needed to face what they’d been ignoring. Both Jessica and Jack had fabulous healing arcs in this story, growing from empty shells who were barely surviving to wonderful, thriving people who were full of life and love.
My biggest wish for this book would be some serious continuity issues being fixed. The first was the age of Jessica's daughter, she went from being twelve (based on the years Jessica had been married) to two years later being 16, then back to 14. There were a few other minor instances, but the age was a huge mistake to overlook. There were also some other grammatical and spelling issues that need to be addressed.
Five Reasons to Stay is the second book in Candace Knoebel’s Risky Hearts duet. It can be read as a standalone, but there was a lot that happened in the first book, Ten Reasons to Stay that help put into perspective how much Jack grew from the beginning of this book until the end of it. Five Reasons to Stay is written in dual first-person perspective, narrated by Jessica and Jack.
I am exceedingly happy that the timelines of Five Reasons and Ten Reasons weren’t entirely concurrent. Jack needed redemption and I don’t think going through all the pain and frustration he cause Corinne and Cole would have allowed him the room he needed to overcome those wrongs. I was happy to see that timeline condensed into a few chapters where we got to see the first building blocks of their relationship, while not delving too extensively into the details of the demise of Jack and Corinne’s relationship from his side.
Jack and Jessica were lovely together. They were both so broken, especially once they reconnected, I’m not sure if either of them would have been able to pull themselves together had they not had one another. They gave each other the strength and support they needed to face what they’d been ignoring. Both Jessica and Jack had fabulous healing arcs in this story, growing from empty shells who were barely surviving to wonderful, thriving people who were full of life and love.
My biggest wish for this book would be some serious continuity issues being fixed. The first was the age of Jessica's daughter, she went from being twelve (based on the years Jessica had been married) to two years later being 16, then back to 14. There were a few other minor instances, but the age was a huge mistake to overlook. There were also some other grammatical and spelling issues that need to be addressed.
Five Reasons to Stay is the second book in Candace Knoebel’s Risky Hearts duet. It can be read as a standalone, but there was a lot that happened in the first book, Ten Reasons to Stay that help put into perspective how much Jack grew from the beginning of this book until the end of it. Five Reasons to Stay is written in dual first-person perspective, narrated by Jessica and Jack.
October 29, 2018
4.5 stars
I will admit I was little skeptical about this book. I despised Jack in the first book. There was no way he would be able to redeem himself, right? Wrong. I was so, so wrong. While I despised him and I was a little skeptical, I did go in with an open mind. I wanted to hear what he had to say and see his side of things. I'm SO glad I did. Also, this is the second book in the series but it isn't a complete retelling of book one. That's another thing I was so happy to see. I didn't want a complete do over but from his side. I wanted his side but with new future content. That's what this book is.
Five Reasons To Go does start a little before Ten Reasons to Stay. It gives you some insight on the marriage of Corrine and Jack and how things played out through his eyes. Candace does a great job of showing you what happened but also moving along quickly and getting to the aftermath of the ending of book one.
You also get to know "The other woman", Jessica. Again, how could I possibly like this other woman? Again, I went in with an open mind. Again, Candace proved me so, so wrong. I adore Jessica. In fact, I like her way better than I liked Corrine. Jessica hasn't had the best life. In fact, she's had a downright crappy life. Still, each day she gets up and works her tail off to make it a good day. My heart broke for Jessica and everything she had and did go through during this story.
Five Reasons to Go isn't instalove. There's a lot of up and down and slow burn but Candace did a great job of having it flow perfectly. I was never bored. I never thought it was too slow or too fast paced. I was emotionally invested in these characters and sucked into how it would play out. While somethings were predictable, there were a few twists I didn't see coming.
Five Reasons to Go will give you all the feels. It also gives you closure which I was really happy to see. I highly recommend this series.
I will admit I was little skeptical about this book. I despised Jack in the first book. There was no way he would be able to redeem himself, right? Wrong. I was so, so wrong. While I despised him and I was a little skeptical, I did go in with an open mind. I wanted to hear what he had to say and see his side of things. I'm SO glad I did. Also, this is the second book in the series but it isn't a complete retelling of book one. That's another thing I was so happy to see. I didn't want a complete do over but from his side. I wanted his side but with new future content. That's what this book is.
Five Reasons To Go does start a little before Ten Reasons to Stay. It gives you some insight on the marriage of Corrine and Jack and how things played out through his eyes. Candace does a great job of showing you what happened but also moving along quickly and getting to the aftermath of the ending of book one.
You also get to know "The other woman", Jessica. Again, how could I possibly like this other woman? Again, I went in with an open mind. Again, Candace proved me so, so wrong. I adore Jessica. In fact, I like her way better than I liked Corrine. Jessica hasn't had the best life. In fact, she's had a downright crappy life. Still, each day she gets up and works her tail off to make it a good day. My heart broke for Jessica and everything she had and did go through during this story.
Five Reasons to Go isn't instalove. There's a lot of up and down and slow burn but Candace did a great job of having it flow perfectly. I was never bored. I never thought it was too slow or too fast paced. I was emotionally invested in these characters and sucked into how it would play out. While somethings were predictable, there were a few twists I didn't see coming.
Five Reasons to Go will give you all the feels. It also gives you closure which I was really happy to see. I highly recommend this series.
December 12, 2018
Alright guys. I usually hate redemption reads for characters I wasn't a fan of in their original books, but this one, this one was great. I loved how it challenged my feelings on the character and totally had my turned around by the end.
I should have know going into this I would love it. I mean, it is a Candace Knoebel read and she always dazzles me.
But this read? This read really did it for me. By the end I loved everything and was thrilled with how it all played out. I honestly want more. I love Knoebel's writing and how she not only crafts the best plots, but the best well rounded reads.
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Synopsis:
One day a week. That was his rule. And it was also our downfall.
My marriage to Hank was one of convenience. When I got pregnant at sixteen, he took me in and kept a roof over my naïve head. We had an agreement—we could sleep with whomever we wanted so long as our children were kept in the dark. It worked great… until it didn’t.
Cocky Jack Swanson was never supposed to be mine. His marriage was open, but his heart was guarded… until he slowly let me in, revealing an alluring man with a painful past. With him, I felt what love could be. I felt wanted… needed. I’d never wanted to fall in love… but then I did.
And now… the rules have changed.
Jack isn’t the same man I fell for. Broken and gutted from his divorce, he’s a shell of who he once was. Sullen and worn down. I know I can bring the good in him back out, if only he’ll let me in. If only he’ll just stay, instead of giving me all his reasons to go.
October 24, 2018
Five Reasons to Go is the final book in the Risky Hearts series, it takes you on the journey of Jack and Jessica whom we met in the first book.
This book picks up the same timeline as the first book, Ten Reasons to Stay just from Jack’s point of view, while did feel like it was repeating itself it gave me the insight into how Jack was feeling the way he was and what he was asking for.
Jack and Jessica’s love story isn’t easy, Jessica found out she was pregnant when she was 16, with no where to go she turned to the father of her baby. As the years went on her marriage of convenience continued. When she met Jack she felt free, but being free wasn’t something that she would ever be. Several years had past and they both thought about each other often, when a chance encounter brings them together they start to fight for what they want. Is Jessica finally free or will she be tied to the life she thought she would have.
I wasn’t a fan of Jack’s while reason the first book and when starting this one I wasn’t sure how this man could possibly redeem himself. He stripped back to the person he used to be and built his life on the beliefs he was doing the right thing. Jessica was put in a bad position from the get go, she was strong and only wanted the best for her child and herself and if that meant sacrificing everything then that is what she would do.
Five Reason’s to Go gave you the HEA that you are looking for and all the bells and whistles; I personally enjoyed reading this book and was glad to see each character redeem themselves and learn from their mistakes. Thank you Candance for a wonder duet.
**Reviewed for Seraphim Book Reviews**
Ratings;
Plot: 5/5
Characters: 5/5
Heat: 5/5
Writing Style: 5/5
Overall: 5/5
This book picks up the same timeline as the first book, Ten Reasons to Stay just from Jack’s point of view, while did feel like it was repeating itself it gave me the insight into how Jack was feeling the way he was and what he was asking for.
Jack and Jessica’s love story isn’t easy, Jessica found out she was pregnant when she was 16, with no where to go she turned to the father of her baby. As the years went on her marriage of convenience continued. When she met Jack she felt free, but being free wasn’t something that she would ever be. Several years had past and they both thought about each other often, when a chance encounter brings them together they start to fight for what they want. Is Jessica finally free or will she be tied to the life she thought she would have.
I wasn’t a fan of Jack’s while reason the first book and when starting this one I wasn’t sure how this man could possibly redeem himself. He stripped back to the person he used to be and built his life on the beliefs he was doing the right thing. Jessica was put in a bad position from the get go, she was strong and only wanted the best for her child and herself and if that meant sacrificing everything then that is what she would do.
Five Reason’s to Go gave you the HEA that you are looking for and all the bells and whistles; I personally enjoyed reading this book and was glad to see each character redeem themselves and learn from their mistakes. Thank you Candance for a wonder duet.
**Reviewed for Seraphim Book Reviews**
Ratings;
Plot: 5/5
Characters: 5/5
Heat: 5/5
Writing Style: 5/5
Overall: 5/5
October 24, 2018
I really didn't care for Jack in the first book, 10 Reasons To Stay. He wanted his cake and he wanted to eat it too. He thought he was going to have the best of both worlds. HE was the one that wanted an open marriage but he got more than he bargained for. His wife ends up leaving and then divorcing him but in the mean time he stopped going out with his side piece Jessica because Jack doesn't want to lose his wife Corinne. She's his stability, his rock, he may have loved her but wasn't in love with her anymore. I just wanted to smack him but then was pretty gleeful when Corinne was like adios.
Back to Jack though and how he is now. He knows when he got divorced he needed to change. He changed just about everything about himself. He's not the man he used to be, he's different, his heart is broken and doesn't know how to make his life better. Well he does, he thinks of Jessica all the time. He remembers how it was between them, the love that they shared until he ended it.
Jessica is still married to the man that got her pregnant years ago that resulted in her getting kicked out of her house. Hank has never been faithful to her since the very beginning. They co-exist more than have an actual marriage. When she finally stands up for herself and tells Hank to go, it doesn't go well.
Will Jack be her in knight in shining armor? Will he be able to give her everything that she wants and deserves? Will they be able to rebuild what they had into something stronger than what they had before?
After finishing 10 Reasons To Stay I knew I had to read this one. I was curious to see how the author was going to turn Jack around so I didn't want to stab him. I was so happy to see both of these characters grow from the last book!
Back to Jack though and how he is now. He knows when he got divorced he needed to change. He changed just about everything about himself. He's not the man he used to be, he's different, his heart is broken and doesn't know how to make his life better. Well he does, he thinks of Jessica all the time. He remembers how it was between them, the love that they shared until he ended it.
Jessica is still married to the man that got her pregnant years ago that resulted in her getting kicked out of her house. Hank has never been faithful to her since the very beginning. They co-exist more than have an actual marriage. When she finally stands up for herself and tells Hank to go, it doesn't go well.
Will Jack be her in knight in shining armor? Will he be able to give her everything that she wants and deserves? Will they be able to rebuild what they had into something stronger than what they had before?
After finishing 10 Reasons To Stay I knew I had to read this one. I was curious to see how the author was going to turn Jack around so I didn't want to stab him. I was so happy to see both of these characters grow from the last book!
October 24, 2018
Five Reasons To Go was an eye opening, second chance romance with lots of heartache. This is book two in the Risky Hearts Duet, I do recommend you read book one, because I feel it greatly impacts this book. This is Jack and Jessica's story in the aftermath of the arrangement from book one. the first 30% of this book we get a bit of a recap and how everything happened from Jack's side (his point of view) Let me just say I still don't like him.. yes there are two sides to every story, and in this case everything turned out exactly as it was meant to, but I just can't push aside my strong dislike for him from book one. Now I'm being completely ridiculous and biased, picking sides, I would be a horrible character to put into their story. Now my pettiness aside, Five reasons to go was a phenomenal read! Marriage takes work, and that's a traditional marriage, I can't imagine being in Jessica's situation. Her marriage isn't one of love, it was of necessity. I think Candace has done an exceptional job of capturing all the ugliness that comes with divorce, domestic abuse, family, that was all very raw and realistic. It's absolutely heartbreaking and devastating, I was very emotional for these characters. I fell very connected to their story, it is one that's not for the faint of heart. It's not hearts and rainbows, it's painful and tragic but also beautiful in a formidable sorta way. I highly recommend The Risky Hearts Duet, it will deeply touch your heart and shake your soul. I will have their story running through my mind for days to come! I received an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
October 26, 2018
Jessica is 16 when she finds herself pregnant by Hank, an older man, and no longer welcome at her parent’s home. With limited options they get married but he is a terrible husband and father. It is a marriage of convenience where they both see other people as long as their child didn’t know.
Jack was married however the distance between he and his wife seems to be growing so they come up with the idea of an open marriage. Thursday nights they can see other people as long as they don’t spend the night. It turned out to be a recipe for disaster as marriage between two people can be challenging and it only gets worse when you add more people in the mix.
A few years ago, Jack and Jessica used to spend Thursday nights together until his marriage imploded. When fate brings them together once again will this finally be their chance or is a marriage of convenience with Hank all Jessica can ever have?
The author has managed to actually make you feel for Jack which is something that I didn’t think could happen after reading Five Reasons to Go. Jessica has not had an easy life and she deserves so much more while Jack shows that he is a better man. This may not be your normal romance, but the author has managed to write it in such a way that you have empathy for everyone. I voluntarily reviewed an Advance Reader Copy of this book.
Jack was married however the distance between he and his wife seems to be growing so they come up with the idea of an open marriage. Thursday nights they can see other people as long as they don’t spend the night. It turned out to be a recipe for disaster as marriage between two people can be challenging and it only gets worse when you add more people in the mix.
A few years ago, Jack and Jessica used to spend Thursday nights together until his marriage imploded. When fate brings them together once again will this finally be their chance or is a marriage of convenience with Hank all Jessica can ever have?
The author has managed to actually make you feel for Jack which is something that I didn’t think could happen after reading Five Reasons to Go. Jessica has not had an easy life and she deserves so much more while Jack shows that he is a better man. This may not be your normal romance, but the author has managed to write it in such a way that you have empathy for everyone. I voluntarily reviewed an Advance Reader Copy of this book.
October 31, 2018
The Risky Hearts Duet...
This duet is the true meaning of the saying "There are two sides to every story" in fact there are four sides to this story.
You know what amazes me about this story and this duet? The way that Ms. Knoebel made me completely change me view and feelings about a character. And she did so brilliantly!
This is the story of Jack, Corrine and Jessica....the same couple Jack and Corrine but told from mainly Jack's POV.
You could feel his confusion. You could feel his frustration. You could read of his confusion and determination to make his marriage work. I was rooting for him! Which was a far cry from what I wanted to do to him after reading the first book in this duet.
Jessica has been thrown away like trash. Everyone she has thought she could count out has let her down. She is in a marriage in name only and is trying to make something more for herself. Trying to make her life and her children's life better.
You can feel the pain of all of the main characters in this series. But you also the the joy and happiness that is deserved by all.
Ms. Knoebel has an amazing writing style, she can take some pretty deep seated feelings and make you change your mind, change your feelings and make you look at this duet in a whole new light!
Bravo Ms. Knoebel! This duet was phenomenal!
This duet is the true meaning of the saying "There are two sides to every story" in fact there are four sides to this story.
You know what amazes me about this story and this duet? The way that Ms. Knoebel made me completely change me view and feelings about a character. And she did so brilliantly!
This is the story of Jack, Corrine and Jessica....the same couple Jack and Corrine but told from mainly Jack's POV.
You could feel his confusion. You could feel his frustration. You could read of his confusion and determination to make his marriage work. I was rooting for him! Which was a far cry from what I wanted to do to him after reading the first book in this duet.
Jessica has been thrown away like trash. Everyone she has thought she could count out has let her down. She is in a marriage in name only and is trying to make something more for herself. Trying to make her life and her children's life better.
You can feel the pain of all of the main characters in this series. But you also the the joy and happiness that is deserved by all.
Ms. Knoebel has an amazing writing style, she can take some pretty deep seated feelings and make you change your mind, change your feelings and make you look at this duet in a whole new light!
Bravo Ms. Knoebel! This duet was phenomenal!
October 25, 2018
Candace Knoebel is a new author to me, and I regret not reading her sooner. Her style of writing is addicting and so dang good!
I made the mistake of reading Five Reasons to Go before Ten Reasons to Stay. Not that it was really a mistake, but now I'm set to sit down with the first book just so I can appreciate this duet to the fullest. I know that there won't be any surprises for me now, but I have to know how it all starts out.
It didn't take me long to figure out there was a lot going on between the characters, but I totally loved it. From the broken marriages to the open relationships, I couldn't flip the pages quick enough. Seriously, getting all caught up in the ugliness and heartbreak was addicting. There were painful moments and lots of bitterness and my heart became so full. I even struggled with liking a few of the characters (Jack and Hank).
Knoebel had a way of grabbing me early on and there was no turning back. I made an afternoon of devouring this book and I don't regret it at all. Though some readers might not find the subject matter appropriate, I found it quite intriguing and praise the author for writing about it. Full of angst and grit, this is one duet I highly recommend.
I made the mistake of reading Five Reasons to Go before Ten Reasons to Stay. Not that it was really a mistake, but now I'm set to sit down with the first book just so I can appreciate this duet to the fullest. I know that there won't be any surprises for me now, but I have to know how it all starts out.
It didn't take me long to figure out there was a lot going on between the characters, but I totally loved it. From the broken marriages to the open relationships, I couldn't flip the pages quick enough. Seriously, getting all caught up in the ugliness and heartbreak was addicting. There were painful moments and lots of bitterness and my heart became so full. I even struggled with liking a few of the characters (Jack and Hank).
Knoebel had a way of grabbing me early on and there was no turning back. I made an afternoon of devouring this book and I don't regret it at all. Though some readers might not find the subject matter appropriate, I found it quite intriguing and praise the author for writing about it. Full of angst and grit, this is one duet I highly recommend.
October 27, 2018
Five Reasons to Go by Canadace KNoebel is book two in her The Risky Hearts Duet and is not a standalone. You must read the previous book, Five Reasons to Stay, first.
Five Reasons to Stay was Corinne and Cole's story. Corinne was married to Jack and both agreed to an open marriage. What led Corinne to the love of her life, Cole - who's Jack's boss. Jack had a short liaison with Jessica and that's where the story picks up.
But Jessica is married herself - unhappily - and a mother of two. When Jack's marriage to Corinne failed and their divorce is finalized, Jack can't stop thinking about Jessica. Jessica is trapped in her loveless marriage with a cheating husband but refuses to break up with her husband.
Favorite quote: " Maybe wer're all just comets, waiting for the right person to collide with to form something new and beautiful. "
Let me be honest here, I had my difficulties with Jessica's character. She's not the strong heroine I wished for. Don't get me wrong, she's strong for her kids, butr weak when pushed by her husband. And pushing her he does, he's not at all my favorite person. I didn't like his actions and don't let me start with his character.
All in all, Five Reasons to Go is a sweet story, well written, beautifully thought out and told and I give 4 stars.
Five Reasons to Stay was Corinne and Cole's story. Corinne was married to Jack and both agreed to an open marriage. What led Corinne to the love of her life, Cole - who's Jack's boss. Jack had a short liaison with Jessica and that's where the story picks up.
But Jessica is married herself - unhappily - and a mother of two. When Jack's marriage to Corinne failed and their divorce is finalized, Jack can't stop thinking about Jessica. Jessica is trapped in her loveless marriage with a cheating husband but refuses to break up with her husband.
Favorite quote: " Maybe wer're all just comets, waiting for the right person to collide with to form something new and beautiful. "
Let me be honest here, I had my difficulties with Jessica's character. She's not the strong heroine I wished for. Don't get me wrong, she's strong for her kids, butr weak when pushed by her husband. And pushing her he does, he's not at all my favorite person. I didn't like his actions and don't let me start with his character.
All in all, Five Reasons to Go is a sweet story, well written, beautifully thought out and told and I give 4 stars.
November 2, 2018
Let me start by saying, that this is book 2 in a duet, so you really should read the first book, in order to understand where these characters are coming from .
That being said, I LOVED this book. I was so intrigued by Jack from book 1, Ten Reasons to Stay. I mean, what kind of man was he? What made him tick? I honestly felt that he was very self-absorbed and egotistical, so I was happy to have a chance to get to know him.
Jessica is a wonderful character. She’s been dealt shitty hands in the game of life, but somehow manages to find the silver lining in everything. She’s the kind of person you would want to be around because she just makes people feel happy. And despite her situation, she always believes in the good in people.
Their relationship did not start off the conventional way, but that’s what makes this story so heart warming. It gives hope, and warm fuzzy feelings. And you realize pretty early on, that these two are good for each other. There is a transformation in Jack that is so wonderful to see.
This is the perfect ending to this wonderful duet. And the epilogue will make your heart swell!
That being said, I LOVED this book. I was so intrigued by Jack from book 1, Ten Reasons to Stay. I mean, what kind of man was he? What made him tick? I honestly felt that he was very self-absorbed and egotistical, so I was happy to have a chance to get to know him.
Jessica is a wonderful character. She’s been dealt shitty hands in the game of life, but somehow manages to find the silver lining in everything. She’s the kind of person you would want to be around because she just makes people feel happy. And despite her situation, she always believes in the good in people.
Their relationship did not start off the conventional way, but that’s what makes this story so heart warming. It gives hope, and warm fuzzy feelings. And you realize pretty early on, that these two are good for each other. There is a transformation in Jack that is so wonderful to see.
This is the perfect ending to this wonderful duet. And the epilogue will make your heart swell!
October 23, 2018
Five Reasons to Go is the conclusion to The Risky Hearts Duet. This time it is Jack’s story. We met Jack and Corinne (his then wife) in Ten Reasons to Stay. Jack wanted an open marriage and Corinne found a new love and divorced Jack. So much for open marriages.
Now Jack is a wreck and is divorced from Corinne. He met Jessica during his open marriage with Corinne. But, she is married to Hank. Hank isn’t very nice and he only married
Jessica because she was pregnant.
Jessica is married to Hank when she met Jack during his “open marriage times”. Hank has hardly been faithful to Jessica and this is no longer a marriage of love.
Only Jack isn’t the same Jack. He is broken because he is now divorced. (All his own doing from his open marriage).
So much happens and I don’t want to give any spoilers but, I loved reading this book and the stories in The Risky Hearts Duet. Even though Jack was a bit of a jerk in book one he totally redeems himself in Five Reasons to Go!
5 stars for Five Reasons to Go!!!!
Now Jack is a wreck and is divorced from Corinne. He met Jessica during his open marriage with Corinne. But, she is married to Hank. Hank isn’t very nice and he only married
Jessica because she was pregnant.
Jessica is married to Hank when she met Jack during his “open marriage times”. Hank has hardly been faithful to Jessica and this is no longer a marriage of love.
Only Jack isn’t the same Jack. He is broken because he is now divorced. (All his own doing from his open marriage).
So much happens and I don’t want to give any spoilers but, I loved reading this book and the stories in The Risky Hearts Duet. Even though Jack was a bit of a jerk in book one he totally redeems himself in Five Reasons to Go!
5 stars for Five Reasons to Go!!!!
November 2, 2018
I am antagonistic towards Jack, thanks to Ten Reasons to Stay. Hence, I don't feel attached to him. However, I am with Jessica. Probably because she was only mentioned in passing in Book 1. This is Jack's truth on his divorce with Corinne, in a way, it's good to know his version of their story. It takes two to tango, right? It is fair that we see the shortcomings of Corinne in their marriage as well.
And Jessica, we may have seen her as the enemy in Book 1, which is a concrete example of double standards because I totally didn't care that Cole played the similar role in Corinne and Jack's marriage. Now, we understand that she is a person like every character and she has her own story. Essentially, no one is a bad guy, this is only real life.
Why am I even talking like they are real people? I guess because, in reality, their story can happen to anyone. This duet is one of the best I have read in terms of taboo themes. It makes you empathize with their situation, it challenges your initial opinion on the topic.
And Jessica, we may have seen her as the enemy in Book 1, which is a concrete example of double standards because I totally didn't care that Cole played the similar role in Corinne and Jack's marriage. Now, we understand that she is a person like every character and she has her own story. Essentially, no one is a bad guy, this is only real life.
Why am I even talking like they are real people? I guess because, in reality, their story can happen to anyone. This duet is one of the best I have read in terms of taboo themes. It makes you empathize with their situation, it challenges your initial opinion on the topic.
November 7, 2018
ALL THE FEELS!!!
5 star read 🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟
If you have read Candace Knoebel books you know how good she can deliver and hooked you from the very first page. I loved it so much. "Five reasons to go" is the second book from The Risky Hearts duet and although they both can be read as a standalone I highly recommend you read the first book "Ten reasons to stay" so you can understand this one much better.
So in here we get the story of Jack and Jess and my heart it was in so much pain for her. Stuck in a loveless marriage with a husband who is a drug addict and treats her so bad for years. She feels trapped in it. But then she meets Jack and he is so different from her husband. He showes her how love should really feel. He is nice to her and he helped her in so many ways. I loved Jack in here. He was so sweet and caring.I must say their path it wasn't easy one but they managed to make it till the end. I love love loved it so much. If you love second chance romances like I do, then I recommend you read this one you are going to love it so much.
5 star read 🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟
If you have read Candace Knoebel books you know how good she can deliver and hooked you from the very first page. I loved it so much. "Five reasons to go" is the second book from The Risky Hearts duet and although they both can be read as a standalone I highly recommend you read the first book "Ten reasons to stay" so you can understand this one much better.
So in here we get the story of Jack and Jess and my heart it was in so much pain for her. Stuck in a loveless marriage with a husband who is a drug addict and treats her so bad for years. She feels trapped in it. But then she meets Jack and he is so different from her husband. He showes her how love should really feel. He is nice to her and he helped her in so many ways. I loved Jack in here. He was so sweet and caring.I must say their path it wasn't easy one but they managed to make it till the end. I love love loved it so much. If you love second chance romances like I do, then I recommend you read this one you are going to love it so much.
October 25, 2018
I have to say I wasn't certain going into this story what it was going to be about exactly. This is Jack's story. The husband who asked for the open marriage in the first book. You kind of hate him in the first book, but this goes to show there are two sides to every story.
You don't know Jack and Jessica's true story until you read this one. It's a good one. I was hooked.
You get Jessica's story, their affair, the twists and turns that led them to lead the lives they ended up with. It's really a great story, it's even quite believable.
I hate that a lot of people will skip this series because there is "cheating". Chances are you have been or know someone who has been cheated on or cheated. It's a nasty part of life, but sometimes you have to get through all that to get to the good parts.
I highly recommend this duet.
You don't know Jack and Jessica's true story until you read this one. It's a good one. I was hooked.
You get Jessica's story, their affair, the twists and turns that led them to lead the lives they ended up with. It's really a great story, it's even quite believable.
I hate that a lot of people will skip this series because there is "cheating". Chances are you have been or know someone who has been cheated on or cheated. It's a nasty part of life, but sometimes you have to get through all that to get to the good parts.
I highly recommend this duet.
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