What do you think?
Rate this book
When Life Happened
Parker Cruse despises cheaters. It might have something to do with her boyfriend sleeping with her twin sister. After a wedding day prank involving a strong laxative, that ends the already severed relationship between the twins, Parker decides to grow up and act twenty-six.
Step One: Move out of her parents' house.
Step Two: Find a job. Opportunity strikes when she meets her new neighbor, Gus Westman. He's an electrician with Iowa farm-boy values and a gift for saying her name like it's a dirty word. He also has a wife. Sabrina Westman, head of a successful engineering firm, hires Parker as her personal assistant. Driven to be the best assistant ever, Parker vows to stay focused, walk the dog, go to the dry cleaners, and not kiss Gus-again.
Step Three: Don't judge.
Step Four: Remember- when life happens, it does it in a heartbeat.
Step One: Move out of her parents' house.
Step Two: Find a job. Opportunity strikes when she meets her new neighbor, Gus Westman. He's an electrician with Iowa farm-boy values and a gift for saying her name like it's a dirty word. He also has a wife. Sabrina Westman, head of a successful engineering firm, hires Parker as her personal assistant. Driven to be the best assistant ever, Parker vows to stay focused, walk the dog, go to the dry cleaners, and not kiss Gus-again.
Step Three: Don't judge.
Step Four: Remember- when life happens, it does it in a heartbeat.
338 pages, Paperback
First published June 5, 2017
About the author
Jewel E. Ann
50 books9,018 followersJewel is a Wall Street Journal & USA Today best selling author with a quirky sense of humor. When she's not saving the planet one tree at a time, you can find her role modeling questionable behavior to her three boys, binge-watching Netflix with her husband, and writing mind-bending romance.
Her upcoming release is For Lucy, a contemporary romance/women's fiction.
Upcoming Projects: New duet in The Life Series fall/winter 2021.
Get a free book by subscribing to her newsletter!—> Sign up here!
Her upcoming release is For Lucy, a contemporary romance/women's fiction.
Upcoming Projects: New duet in The Life Series fall/winter 2021.
Get a free book by subscribing to her newsletter!—> Sign up here!
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 1,439 reviews
March 22, 2021
**Major spoilers**
With all due respect, this story was manipulative af; more than this, the author displayed a patent lack of empathy for the characters and the readers.
Parker, our female lead, finds "true love" with not one but two men all in the space of six weeks. It was definitely a case of insta-love/insta-lust, also the turnover rate (and pace) of the love interest was alarming.
Gus, Parker's first love interest, died in a car accident along with his wife. This occurred right about the same time he'd decided to file for divorce and run away with Parker (whom he'd known for all of four weeks). Oneminuteweek later- at the joint funeral- Parker meets Levi and immediately starts to fall for him.
Look, the prose was beautifully done (clearly Ms Ann can write) but you do not get to manipulate my emotions simply because you can. I am not a puppet. Further, since Ms Ann showed little regard for me or my emotions, then she wasn't deserving of my unreserved commitment to this story, especially as I wasn't confident she wouldn't pull the rug later on.
To read a story of a second chance love after loss, one written with truth and empathy, may I suggest the Full Tilt Duet by Emma Scott
February 10, 2019
I loved it and hated it and liked it and disliked it and enjoyed it and loathed it and admired it and detested it. But most of all, I adored it.
And I didn’t shed a tear, I swear.
I did, however, at one point feel miserable, moping around wanting to lock myself within the four walls, burry my head under the pillow, wishing everybody would leave me alone.
I won’t say a word about the story. My lips are sealed. What I should probably tell you is to dive into this book totally clueless. At least that’s what I’d been told.
Am I sorry I did it? I don’t know. But one thing’s for sure, I wouldn’t have experienced this amazing book to the fullest if I’d known about the plot twist. Hell, I didn’t even know there was a twist. I thought it was a bloody love triangle book.
I was so pissed off at one point. I wanted to give it 1 star. But it would be too easy, too cowardly, wouldn’t it? Unleash you anger at the book when instead you should be angry at life. So I’m rating it 5 stars because this book deserves them.
For its meaningful messages, amazing dialogue, beautiful and skillful writing and execution, masterful characterization, lovable characters, awesome heroine, the least predictable storyline, the feels….
But not for the plot twist. No. The plot twist gets 1 star from me.
Ms. Ann, you’re forgiven. Anybody with such a vivid imagination and such an amazing writing talent should be forgiven for breaking my heart.
May 29, 2017
*****10+++++++++++ BREATHTAKING STARS*****
{ARC Generously Provided by Author}
Her heart ached, the yearning kind of ache, the pain that came with wanting something so much but being too afraid to believe it could happen to her.
BREATHTAKING! That is only one amongst many words I would use to describe this book. There’s a reason why Jewel E Ann is one of my top favorite authors. Her writing is flawless. It evokes so many emotions from me. At times I laughed and when I thought I couldn’t fly any higher on a cloud of happiness, the story goes down a different path that shattered my heart and left me unable to feel anything but numbness from grief. And because Jewel is such a gifted writer she was able to piece back my broken heart with where the story takes us next.
I can’t even begin to express just how much I loved this story. To say that I consider it one of the “Best of 2017” still wouldn’t do it justice! What I can say without a doubt is that I think EVERYONE should read this book and if I could, I would gift a copy to all of you. This book is a treasure and one that you should go into truly blind. I would be doing everyone an injustice if I revealed even the tiniest bit about the plot. All I can say is that I loved the spunky heroine for her vivacious personality and even for her imperfections! There’s another character in here that stole my heart and well he comes really close to being my favorite of all of Jewel’s heroes. My biggest fear is that this book may have ruined me for all others to come after it!
WHEN LIFE HAPPENED releases on June 5th! Set a reminder for yourselves. You need this book in your lives!! I can’t wait for you all to get a chance to read this one of a kind story!
iBooks: https://goo.gl/6TsEdH
{ARC Generously Provided by Author}
Her heart ached, the yearning kind of ache, the pain that came with wanting something so much but being too afraid to believe it could happen to her.
BREATHTAKING! That is only one amongst many words I would use to describe this book. There’s a reason why Jewel E Ann is one of my top favorite authors. Her writing is flawless. It evokes so many emotions from me. At times I laughed and when I thought I couldn’t fly any higher on a cloud of happiness, the story goes down a different path that shattered my heart and left me unable to feel anything but numbness from grief. And because Jewel is such a gifted writer she was able to piece back my broken heart with where the story takes us next.
I can’t even begin to express just how much I loved this story. To say that I consider it one of the “Best of 2017” still wouldn’t do it justice! What I can say without a doubt is that I think EVERYONE should read this book and if I could, I would gift a copy to all of you. This book is a treasure and one that you should go into truly blind. I would be doing everyone an injustice if I revealed even the tiniest bit about the plot. All I can say is that I loved the spunky heroine for her vivacious personality and even for her imperfections! There’s another character in here that stole my heart and well he comes really close to being my favorite of all of Jewel’s heroes. My biggest fear is that this book may have ruined me for all others to come after it!
WHEN LIFE HAPPENED releases on June 5th! Set a reminder for yourselves. You need this book in your lives!! I can’t wait for you all to get a chance to read this one of a kind story!
iBooks: https://goo.gl/6TsEdH
Read
January 15, 2019
When Life Happened is available now in AUDIO!
Audio Buy Links
Audible: http://adbl.co/2eWdnSY
Amazon: http://amzn.to/2uLA6VK
iTunes: http://apple.co/2uIbDSE
Buy Links
➜Amazon US
➜Amazon UK
>> Read Chapter one now <<
Excerpt:
“You … you tried to seduce me.” Anger fueled her fight, overriding how terrified she felt being feet from naked Gus.
He laughed. That fed her anger even more.
“I wasn’t seducing you. I was making a point.” He slipped on a white T-shirt.
“Bullshit. I was there.”
“Precisely. Then you should know that I wasn’t seducing you.” He grabbed her shoulders and steered her away from the entrance to his closet.
She turned, relieved to find him dressed. “I felt you.” Her eyes narrowed.
He smirked. “You did, did you?”
Heat spread up her neck and burned her cheeks. Discussing Gus’s erection in his bedroom with Sabrina out of town qualified as the most inappropriate conversation she had ever had. “You’re such an ass. Just tell me why?”
Twisting his lips to the side, he narrowed his eyes. “You’re young. You think the world is so black and white. In your fairy-tale world, love is a magic wand spreading trails of glitter and granting happily ever afters.”
Parker stepped closer, knowing the lion could pull her into his den. “I don’t believe in fairytales.”
“No?” He shrugged. “Then I guess I made my point.”
“I don’t get your stupid point!” Her fingernails dug into her hands as she clenched them.
Gus leaned forward, putting them at eye level. She held her ground, even though his proximity made her body tremble.
“Someone cheated on you. And you’re so fucking mad about it because you can’t understand it. But love is an emotion that resides in your head and your proverbial heart. It has to be nurtured to grow or it dies. But … desire … it’s instinctual. Physical. Carnal. And when it wants its way, your brain shuts down and the only heart you hear is that blood-pumping organ in your chest. A slave to your desire, readying your body to do one thing and one thing only …” He leaned into her ear and whispered, “Get. Off.”
August Westman proved he was the devil. Parker became the worst possible version of herself in his presence. He drugged her with his words, pulled her under with his confidence, and stole her innocence with a whisper.
April 22, 2018
5 stars!!!
When Life Happened. What a perfect title for this book. This is one of those stories that gripped me from the very start. There were moments I couldn’t breathe. A part where I had to take a break for an hour and collect myself because there is no way that author went there. But she did. And someway, somehow, she made it work. This story is shaped perfectly the way it’s supposed to be. It’s angsty, stressful, and I loved it. I can’t really give this one a proper review, as I feel that anything I write would spoil it. I went in blind after it was recommended to be several times by friends, and I’m so glad I did. Just know, all the stress and suffering was more than worth it. The ending was beautiful, satisfying, and everything I wanted. Jewel E. Ann is a superb writer and I am definitely moving her books up on my TBR!
When Life Happened. What a perfect title for this book. This is one of those stories that gripped me from the very start. There were moments I couldn’t breathe. A part where I had to take a break for an hour and collect myself because there is no way that author went there. But she did. And someway, somehow, she made it work. This story is shaped perfectly the way it’s supposed to be. It’s angsty, stressful, and I loved it. I can’t really give this one a proper review, as I feel that anything I write would spoil it. I went in blind after it was recommended to be several times by friends, and I’m so glad I did. Just know, all the stress and suffering was more than worth it. The ending was beautiful, satisfying, and everything I wanted. Jewel E. Ann is a superb writer and I am definitely moving her books up on my TBR!
June 5, 2020
OMG OMG OMG! Maybe it’s gonna be my regular line for all Jewel E. Ann books but again I have no hesitation to say it” This book was soooooo fabulous and it deserves at least ten stars” and so far this is my fifth tango with this writer and I honestly tell you that from now on this is not only my favorite Jewel Ann book but it’s also one of my favorite books I’ve read in my entire life.
But let me tell you something about f.ckity twist in the middle. I was about to throw my kindle against the wall while I was whining like a wounded animal. Because I consider myself smart and I can catch the surprises, twists, WTF endings at the beginning. But this time I didn’t see it coming. And I CRIED, CURSED, GOT ANGRY! But I finally gathered my wits and took my kindle into my hands and continue to read.
What can I say? I was addicted to the characters, the story and of course I liked the end of book. Nothing was cliche, nothing was melodramatic. It was about what you have to do , to decide, to take an action, to choose happiness when life happens.
I’m totally in love with this book. And it was great thing to end year with this. Levi is right. This is the best day of my life !!!!
But let me tell you something about f.ckity twist in the middle. I was about to throw my kindle against the wall while I was whining like a wounded animal. Because I consider myself smart and I can catch the surprises, twists, WTF endings at the beginning. But this time I didn’t see it coming. And I CRIED, CURSED, GOT ANGRY! But I finally gathered my wits and took my kindle into my hands and continue to read.
What can I say? I was addicted to the characters, the story and of course I liked the end of book. Nothing was cliche, nothing was melodramatic. It was about what you have to do , to decide, to take an action, to choose happiness when life happens.
I’m totally in love with this book. And it was great thing to end year with this. Levi is right. This is the best day of my life !!!!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
December 21, 2017
I have 2 main reasons for such a low rating:
● #1 ●
Life happens and it often takes your feet right from under you and yet, somehow, you have to pick yourself up and start walking again.
It takes so much courage to open up to love and hope and joy because you don't see them.
This book is supposed to show you how life can "happen" in the blink of an eye and how the journey is not over because something made you fall and/or broke your heart...
Halfway through I didn't want to finish it though, because I felt cheated on.
I wasn’t looking for the journey this story forced me to take and I had no way of knowing otherwise because the offical blurb (on goodreads, amazon...) is extremely misleading.
Cheating is not the only big potential trigger and Gus (the man that cheats on his wife with Parker) is not the main lead..
I was really looking forward to this book and I usually wait for the genuine reviews because most of the ARC's reviewers are completely untrustworthy.
Why didn't I wait?
è_é
I blame the author for the truly awful reaction I had because...
Dear Jewel E. Ann,
when a book has such a big trigger you should make sure the blurb says something about it!
You don’t let people jump on something like DEATH like it's nothing.
I'm also particularly angry with the majority of the ARC's reviewers of this book that were supposed to write an "honest review" about it.
YOU CHOSE TO BE A REVIEWER for NetGallery, blogs and such to help people decide if the book you've been given for FREE is the right one for others to buy!
Well, at least I hope that was one of your main reasons for it.
A book should be experienced without major spoilers but when such big triggers are involved YOU SHOULD WARN fellow readers about it.
I'm absolutely not questioning the high ratings because how someone feels about a book is extremely personal and maybe some of you love every book you're given.
Saying "Be prepared for a major twist that will break your heart..." or just anything similar to warn people this is NOT A LIGHT HEARTED ROMANCE could've been of great service.
What did you do instead?
You just gushed on and on about the book.
THANKS for nothing.
I had no way of knowing what I was getting into and I had a very difficult day because of it.
At ~45% I was so angry with author and "honest" reviewers for making me hurt even more than I already did for personal reasons.
I decided to pick up the book again and finish it only because I needed some kind of closure.
● #2 ●
Life is complicated and destinies intertwine every day but this story was often too contrived!
Parker falls for Gus very quickly but I was really into their story and the cheating, that usually bothers me, here wasn't a complete turn off.
I hated reading those phrases and I hated that feeling I kept with me for the entire second half of this story.
I actually love Jewel E. Ann's writing and even if this book's plot was not developed to my taste, the writing is great.
That's why I was even more disappointed.
I loved A LOT of quotes...
“Hate me. I’ll still love you. Cut me with words. I’ll bleed for you. Regret us. I’ll vanish from your life. But don’t ever ask me to regret us. If we weren’t real, then I don’t want to take another breath. And I want to live, [...]. For the first time in so very long, I don’t feel like I’m drowning in anger, hiding from the truth, or in denial that this is my life. I’m imperfect like everyone else. But I’m also worthy of love and forgiveness and settling for anything less would be wrong.”
...and the idea behind this book is brilliant.
A certain character's "today is my favorite day" attitude was beautifully conveyed.
Even so, this wasn't a book for me.
Expecially jumping into it blindly.
Not right now.
If the 2 main triggers (cheating and death of a major character) do not usually bother you, give this book a chance, if they do...stay away.
⭐ 1 Star ⭐
~ My Ratings ~
Writing: 4 /5
Plot: 1 /5
Hero: ---/5
Heroine: ---/5
Secondary Characters: ---/5
MC's chemistry: ---/5
Steam: ---/5
Triggers: Cheating and Death of a major character
Recommended to: Adult Romance Readers that are not bothered by the triggers I mentioned.
Are you looking for a specific mix of ingredients for your next read?
June 5, 2017
REVIEW ALSO POSTED ON MY BLOG
👉 KITTY KATS CRAZY ABOUT BOOKS
WHEN LIFE HAPPENED: is a standalone romance novel by Jewel E. Ann.
An unconventional meeting between two neighbours had me giggling uncontrollably, twenty=six year old Parker Cruse has finally cut the apron strings and has left home at last, it may not be suburbs over from her parents house but right across the street into her grandfather's old farmhouse, just a stone's throw away.
Whilst enjoying her first night of freedom without mother hen looking at her over her shoulder Parker plays a joke on an unsuspecting neighbour thinking it was her mother come over to check up on her, a faked orgasm, a wayward dog and a very very hot neighbour. A very very hot married neighbour.
Her neighbour to the south of her Gus Westman
So there I was saying goodbye to all my morals and getting sucked into the crazy ride of stepping over that line from not cheating to cheating to getting caught up with all the feels this book was throwing at me when the author pulled the unthinkable!!
BAM!!
I just got a slap in the face by a wet fish!! My heart just plummeted, this author just pulled the rug out from under my feet and I’m left reeling with the wtf just happened moment.
Sitting there my mind reeling thinking that the author is cackling as she watches another of her victims fall at her feet, asking why? From this point onwards the story is flipped on it's ass and changes in an instant!!
Go into this book blind, do not sneaky peak at reviews, that is the best and only way to enjoy this..
Without realising it I’d been suffering from a major book funk book after book just wasn’t cutting it for me, run of the mill stuff, as soon as I started this I went into it knowing it was going to touch on the taboo side of cheating, and I was prepared for that, I wasn’t prepared for me to have my guts ripped out my ass hole though, that bitch hurt, but slowly the author put a band aide over it and chapter by chapter I got over the curve ball she threw at me, by the end of the book I didn't just love one character, I loved all three.
MY THOUGHTS: I loved how the author stepped away from how this could’ve become a predictable read, it became so much more than that. Buddy reading this with sonya from chatter books book blog and reaching that major twist in the story needing that moral support before I carried on yeah that bitch was blissfully sleeping so there I was walking towards the unknown by myself.
This book was unpredictable, soul crushing, and unique in it’s entirety. I loved it, breathed it, inhaled it, lived it, this book destroyed me, this book gutted me, I laughed, I cried, I swooned, this book made me fall so far down the rabbit hole of despair over losing one but loving another and feelings that I crave, need, seek from authors and this author just slayed them all. Yes I know this review is all over the place but right this second I’d just closed that last page, a roller coaster of epic proportions when life happened deserves more than my 5 star rating.
I know my review is vague and I've not thrown up an quotes but you'll thank me for that once you one click this come release day.
* Teasers used are off the Authors Facebook Page *
June 8, 2017
➦We all are born, raised and then we're free to do whatever. Some people find their calling... an awesome job they excel at... successful career... that one special person.... and a happily ever after.
➦But for the rest of us mortals... let's just say, life isn't as accommodating.
➦It's not all rainbows and unicorns. We fuck up.
➦And sometimes shit just happens.
➦But we pick ourselves up and keep going.
➦We do all have one thing in common, though. We will all die.
➦lol. sorry. What I want to say is this: this book might make some readers uncomfortable. It explores some sore subjects/situations. The concept of the book is certainly interesting and the fact that this book doesn't follow your typical romance novel formula is also extremely refreshing.
➦If you are very impressionable when it comes to subjects like death or cheating then it's probably not the book for you. I'm a pretty adventurous reader and I can't say that I felt uncomfortable reading this but I certainly did feel a bit exhausted. There's a heartbreaking twist in the middle and I had hard time staying invested in the characters and it all felt a bit too much like real life. I guess I was more in the mood for fluffy.
April 28, 2018
I absolutely loved it! Jewel never disappoints me and I highly recommend her books to you. ❤❤❤
"Today is my favorite day."
"Today is my favorite day."
June 5, 2017
5 "Today is my favorite day." Stars
I'm going to keep this short and sweet because literally everything about this book is a spoiler and I don't trust myself to not give away a thing. So here's my advice- READ. THIS. BOOK. Don't go searching for reviews because, rest assured, come release day they'll become riddled with plot spoilers. Experience this journey for Parker and how Life Happened for her. It's chock full with life experiences and lessons learned, often the hard way, for a twenty-something girl from Iowa down on her luck.
When Life Happened is emotional and definitely angsty at times, yet it's filled with Jewel E Ann's endearing wit and humor, thus lightening the emotional load. It's a true experience for the characters and the reader. The plot very unpredictable and at times shocking. This author is not afraid to sock it to her readers with imperfect characters and plot twists many other authors wouldn't dream of 'going there' for fear of retaliation for kindles thrown against the wall or emotional therapy following her stories. For all these reasons, I adore this author and look forward to anything she writes. With a gift of truly showing versus telling, we are wholeheartedly invested in her characters and the journey upon which they partake.
Is there cheating in this book? Is it a hard limit for you? My advice is have faith and give it a try. This is not a book completely invested in a cheating or love triangle style trope. It ventures way beyond and unless it's a true hard limit, I'd really give it a try, especially if you've read Jewel E Ann's work and know the awesomeness that she is as a writer of everything angsty-emotional rom com. If that isn't a contradiction in terms, I'm not sure what is. But she pulls it off here in technicolor. Bravo!
Advanced copy received by author in exchange for my honest review.
I'm going to keep this short and sweet because literally everything about this book is a spoiler and I don't trust myself to not give away a thing. So here's my advice- READ. THIS. BOOK. Don't go searching for reviews because, rest assured, come release day they'll become riddled with plot spoilers. Experience this journey for Parker and how Life Happened for her. It's chock full with life experiences and lessons learned, often the hard way, for a twenty-something girl from Iowa down on her luck.
If Amazon Prime offered a life, she would have one-clicked the hell out of it and selected recurring monthly delivery.
When Life Happened is emotional and definitely angsty at times, yet it's filled with Jewel E Ann's endearing wit and humor, thus lightening the emotional load. It's a true experience for the characters and the reader. The plot very unpredictable and at times shocking. This author is not afraid to sock it to her readers with imperfect characters and plot twists many other authors wouldn't dream of 'going there' for fear of retaliation for kindles thrown against the wall or emotional therapy following her stories. For all these reasons, I adore this author and look forward to anything she writes. With a gift of truly showing versus telling, we are wholeheartedly invested in her characters and the journey upon which they partake.
"I'm afraid of having everything that means nothing and nothing that means everything."
Is there cheating in this book? Is it a hard limit for you? My advice is have faith and give it a try. This is not a book completely invested in a cheating or love triangle style trope. It ventures way beyond and unless it's a true hard limit, I'd really give it a try, especially if you've read Jewel E Ann's work and know the awesomeness that she is as a writer of everything angsty-emotional rom com. If that isn't a contradiction in terms, I'm not sure what is. But she pulls it off here in technicolor. Bravo!
Advanced copy received by author in exchange for my honest review.
June 6, 2017
3.5 Stars
Overall Opinion: Well, this is a really tough book to review without spoiling. It's not going to be my typical review, but if there is anything you feel like you have to know -- pm me. That being said...I think it's definitely a book better read without knowing spoilers going in! I saw a few of my GR friends say this same thing in their reviews, and I'm glad I followed their advice and essentially went in blind (so thank you ladies!). I don't think this is a safe read as it does have cheating in it, so just beware safety gang. BUT I also think that the big message in this book is more about at all the grey areas in life and love, and how everything isn't always as black and white as we want it to be. It truely is a book about this flawed character that is lost and in a sense of limbo and trying to find happiness in her life, and she does eventually get a HEA! So even though there were things that shocked me and didn't necessarily go the way I wanted them to, I enjoyed the book and the overall message it gave me.
Brief Summary of the Storyline: I'm keeping this really brief and vague because, again, I don't want to ruin it. This is mainly Parker's story. She's struggling. She had caught her twin sister and her boyfriend of many years cheating on her a year prior to the story, she's jobless, and she lives across the street from her hovering parents in her deceased grandparent's old farmhouse. We follow her on her journey in finding herself, forgiveness, and love...and she does get a HEA in the end.
POV: This was told in first person POV.
Overall Pace of Story: Good. There was a part in the middle that seemed to drag a little bit, but for the most part it flowed well. I never skimmed.
h rating: 4 stars. Parker. She was flawed in many ways, but I also liked her because of those flaws.
Sadness level: Low, no tissues needed
Heat level: Hot. They have some hot tension, chemistry, and scenes -- but not so much it takes away from the story.
Descriptive sex: Yes
Cheating: Yes
Closure: This had pretty good closure with a HEA ending. Again, I would have enjoyed a farther glimpse into the future here...but it was what I would still classify as a HEA.
How I got it: I paid the $3.99 on Amazon for it.
Safety: This one is probably Not Safe for most safety gang readers
Overall Opinion: Well, this is a really tough book to review without spoiling. It's not going to be my typical review, but if there is anything you feel like you have to know -- pm me. That being said...I think it's definitely a book better read without knowing spoilers going in! I saw a few of my GR friends say this same thing in their reviews, and I'm glad I followed their advice and essentially went in blind (so thank you ladies!). I don't think this is a safe read as it does have cheating in it, so just beware safety gang. BUT I also think that the big message in this book is more about at all the grey areas in life and love, and how everything isn't always as black and white as we want it to be. It truely is a book about this flawed character that is lost and in a sense of limbo and trying to find happiness in her life, and she does eventually get a HEA! So even though there were things that shocked me and didn't necessarily go the way I wanted them to, I enjoyed the book and the overall message it gave me.
Brief Summary of the Storyline: I'm keeping this really brief and vague because, again, I don't want to ruin it. This is mainly Parker's story. She's struggling. She had caught her twin sister and her boyfriend of many years cheating on her a year prior to the story, she's jobless, and she lives across the street from her hovering parents in her deceased grandparent's old farmhouse. We follow her on her journey in finding herself, forgiveness, and love...and she does get a HEA in the end.
POV: This was told in first person POV.
Overall Pace of Story: Good. There was a part in the middle that seemed to drag a little bit, but for the most part it flowed well. I never skimmed.
h rating: 4 stars. Parker. She was flawed in many ways, but I also liked her because of those flaws.
Sadness level: Low, no tissues needed
Heat level: Hot. They have some hot tension, chemistry, and scenes -- but not so much it takes away from the story.
Descriptive sex: Yes
Cheating: Yes
Closure: This had pretty good closure with a HEA ending. Again, I would have enjoyed a farther glimpse into the future here...but it was what I would still classify as a HEA.
How I got it: I paid the $3.99 on Amazon for it.
Safety: This one is probably Not Safe for most safety gang readers
Read
June 6, 2017dnf @49%
I absolutely love this authors work, but unfortunately this particular story, and it's unexpected twist, is not my cup of tea.
:(
I absolutely love this authors work, but unfortunately this particular story, and it's unexpected twist, is not my cup of tea.
:(
June 4, 2017
One thing I've come to learn from reading books by Jewel E. Ann is that she doesn't play safe or writes the same ol' predictable love story. She challenges me every single time, she surprises me even pisses me off royally but that's exactly why I read. I love different, risks and a story which has a purpose. When Life Happend encompasses all of that.
Go in blind! That's what I did and boy was I in for a treat. I can't tell too much about the story because then I'll give too much away. All I can say is that Parker's story is beautiful, heartbreaking but most of all life affirming. She and the other characters hit me right in my heart. Their choices, mistakes and results of those are all about being human and learning from them. Parker and the other characters are all guilty of those.
What I love about WLH is Parker's growth and introspection throughout this story and how much she actually gains in the end by acknowledging herself and her faults. She doesn't do this all on her own. The people she already has in her life, her family and the ones she befriends influences her more than she knows.
Now sitting here and writing this I'm still on a high and also mourning this extraordinary story. Jewel E. Ann has yet again outdone herself. WLH is perfection from start to finish. Her refined prose kept me intrigued and glued to the pages. This deserves a standing ovation.
5 BadAssDirtyMyFavoriteDayStars
Arc generously provided by the author for an honest review
Go in blind! That's what I did and boy was I in for a treat. I can't tell too much about the story because then I'll give too much away. All I can say is that Parker's story is beautiful, heartbreaking but most of all life affirming. She and the other characters hit me right in my heart. Their choices, mistakes and results of those are all about being human and learning from them. Parker and the other characters are all guilty of those.
What I love about WLH is Parker's growth and introspection throughout this story and how much she actually gains in the end by acknowledging herself and her faults. She doesn't do this all on her own. The people she already has in her life, her family and the ones she befriends influences her more than she knows.
Now sitting here and writing this I'm still on a high and also mourning this extraordinary story. Jewel E. Ann has yet again outdone herself. WLH is perfection from start to finish. Her refined prose kept me intrigued and glued to the pages. This deserves a standing ovation.
5 BadAssDirtyMyFavoriteDayStars
Arc generously provided by the author for an honest review
February 12, 2018
"The truth doesn't always set you free, and lies are not always deception."
WOW, fantastic!!!
Well done Mrs. Ann, well done!
This book wasn't what I expected but was so good.
This is very frustrating there are so many good things I want to say about the characters and the story but I can't because well I don't want to spoil it.
But what I will say is, as in all her books the author wrote a kickass heroine and the storyline is so unique and unexpected.
I loved that I couldn't predict the path of the plot. I read so many books that sometimes it seems you read the same story over and over again, so when you find a book that got you surprised or shocked well it's exciting!!
I am a big fan of this author's writing, how it always brings out so many emotions in me and how she isn't afraid to go places others wouldn't go.
" Hate me. I'll still love you.
Cut me with words. I'll bleed fo you.
Regret us. I'll vanish from your life. "
I know my review doesn't say much but you need to experience this blind. DON'T READ THE BLURB, JUST DIVE IN.
June 5, 2017
This story snuck up on me like a thief in the night! I was expecting a laugh out loud storyline with my morals being compromised because who doesn’t love that? I was expecting to say goodbye to what I consider as a “normal” read. I was expecting a little bit of angst and a whole bunch of scorching sexiness and I’m happy to report that I got all of those things. But do you know what else I got? A mini fucking stroke that left me wondering if I was seeing things that weren’t there.
“Not a all truths set you free, not all lies are deceptions. “
Imagine having a twin sister that you love more than life itself. Can you picture it? Now imagine she does the most unforgivable thing known to man kind and after a bad experience with laxatives, your relationship with her is no longer existent. That’s a reality for Parker Cruse and after deciding to finally take control of her life and move out of her parent’s house, she’s now on her way to adulthood. Hey, no one ever said being a grown up is easy.
Having new neighbors shouldn’t be a big deal when you move but having a very hot married neighbor on the other hand? That’s a MAJOR problem or as I would like to call it, a train wreck waiting to happen. Gus Westman is funny, strong, protective and any woman would be so lucky to call him her husband. It’s funny how those seven letters can make you swoon and cause heartbreak at the same time doesn’t it? Because Gus already belongs to someone and looking at his new neighbor no matter how gorgeous she is doesn’t change the face that he’s married. Being a good guy has always been what worked for him and temptation is just going to have to take a back seat no matter how much it keeps throwing up those red neon lights in Parker’s direction. For better or for worse and all that jazz. But for how long?
“I’m afraid of having everything that means nothing and nothing that means everything.
I really can’t say how much I loved this one and how each character was portrayed. Sure some of them were hot messes and made you feel like your life is celebrity status, but the rest of them were just real and genuine and you couldn’t help but feel for them. Seeing that this is my very first read by this author, (I know I’m crazy) and knowing that this was told from a 3rd persons POV, It didn’t take long for me to fall in love with everything.
Now you’re probably saying: Hey if you loved it so much, why not 5 stars? Well aside from the fact that I’m an extremely picky bitch, there was a mother of all plot twist that just broke me! I’m not talking a little bit of a twist that would steer the story off a little bit, I’m talking:⬇
I literally had to reread an entire chapter and message my reading buddy Kat to drop some f bombs. I will say that she warned me though but she needed to send me a S.O.S with a police escort! I did not see that coming and for that, I really do need to applaud this author for going there. Sometimes these books are so damn predictable so for her to give us the element of surprise, was refreshing.
So with this review all over the place, know that this is one story that you cannot afford to miss. DO NOT read any spoilers, DO NOT go searching for any teasers that you think would be a spoiler, and please for the love of Ed Sheeran, just read the damn book!
June 6, 2017
6+++++ ~You're The Ballad Of My Life Stars~
Never have I ever read a book by author Jewel E. Ann and not have been blown away by her talent, and this one was no exception. She always bring us unique stories that make our hearts pump fast, our skins tingle and our brains explode. This author is the real deal. <3
This book is about a girl who used to make plans, and organize her life to the very last detail but When Life Happened her plans were destroyed to smithereens, leaving her with nothing but mistrust and absolutely no direction in life.
She's has family who love her and have her back no matter what but Parker is so full of hurt, she recents any type of love or help they offer. She just wants to start over, but the problem is that she doesn't know where.
Life lessons will come to her in a painful way but she will learn to let go of the past and forgive, because she learns how nobody is safe from making mistakes and hurting others.
I know I'm being vague but I have to, because my favorite thing about this book was how it was completely unexpected. There will be more than one type of love, there is hurt but also happiness and at the end of the book your heart will feel completely full. I will adore this book until the end of time, I will cherish it and remember it, forever.
Absolutely brilliant read, one definitely not to miss...
Never have I ever read a book by author Jewel E. Ann and not have been blown away by her talent, and this one was no exception. She always bring us unique stories that make our hearts pump fast, our skins tingle and our brains explode. This author is the real deal. <3
This book is about a girl who used to make plans, and organize her life to the very last detail but When Life Happened her plans were destroyed to smithereens, leaving her with nothing but mistrust and absolutely no direction in life.
She's has family who love her and have her back no matter what but Parker is so full of hurt, she recents any type of love or help they offer. She just wants to start over, but the problem is that she doesn't know where.
Life lessons will come to her in a painful way but she will learn to let go of the past and forgive, because she learns how nobody is safe from making mistakes and hurting others.
I know I'm being vague but I have to, because my favorite thing about this book was how it was completely unexpected. There will be more than one type of love, there is hurt but also happiness and at the end of the book your heart will feel completely full. I will adore this book until the end of time, I will cherish it and remember it, forever.
Absolutely brilliant read, one definitely not to miss...
June 9, 2017
When Life Happened is one of Jewel E. Ann’s strongest novels to date, and that’s really saying something. I’ve been a huge fan of her masterful storytelling, so it should not come as a surprise that this addictive book left me conflicted and entirely enthralled.
Don’t let the super cute cover fool you into thinking this is a lighthearted read. There are quite a few comedic elements interwoven, but this is first and foremost an angst-filled contemporary romance about self-discovery and forgiveness. The plot is uncomfortable at times and deals with controversial situations that may be hard limits for some readers. It’s an extremely unique and thought-provoking story, though—one that unfolds with such deft care that it is difficult to put down.
I loved Parker’s exuberance, and I connected with her every step of the way as she struggles with her sense of purpose, independence, insecurities, and values. Every single character is perfectly flawed and complicated. I was awed by their resilience.
Nothing is as cut and dried as it appears to be. In the debate over wrong versus right, or playing it safe versus taking chances, it’s the grey lines and uncertainty that make life messy and fascinating.
I have learned to anticipate the unexpected in this author’s stories, and When Life Happened definitely delivers some shockers. I loved every inch of this story and can honestly say that the compassionate journey is well worth the emotional rollercoaster. Bravo to Jewel E. Ann on a compelling and poignant tour de force.
Recommended for fans of:
Angst
Second chance romance
**ARC received in exchange for an honest review.**
Read full review on the blog: http://readingfrenzyblog.com/when-life-happened-jewel-e-ann/
Don’t let the super cute cover fool you into thinking this is a lighthearted read. There are quite a few comedic elements interwoven, but this is first and foremost an angst-filled contemporary romance about self-discovery and forgiveness. The plot is uncomfortable at times and deals with controversial situations that may be hard limits for some readers. It’s an extremely unique and thought-provoking story, though—one that unfolds with such deft care that it is difficult to put down.
I loved Parker’s exuberance, and I connected with her every step of the way as she struggles with her sense of purpose, independence, insecurities, and values. Every single character is perfectly flawed and complicated. I was awed by their resilience.
Nothing is as cut and dried as it appears to be. In the debate over wrong versus right, or playing it safe versus taking chances, it’s the grey lines and uncertainty that make life messy and fascinating.
I have learned to anticipate the unexpected in this author’s stories, and When Life Happened definitely delivers some shockers. I loved every inch of this story and can honestly say that the compassionate journey is well worth the emotional rollercoaster. Bravo to Jewel E. Ann on a compelling and poignant tour de force.
Recommended for fans of:
Angst
Second chance romance
**ARC received in exchange for an honest review.**
Read full review on the blog: http://readingfrenzyblog.com/when-life-happened-jewel-e-ann/
June 13, 2017
DNF @ 48%...
I thought I was going to like this one. It started off fine and all. And then everything fell apart. Yes, that dramatic. Not recommended.
I thought I was going to like this one. It started off fine and all. And then everything fell apart. Yes, that dramatic. Not recommended.
May 12, 2018
Life happens, right? We experience highs and lows, failures and triumphs. And we all ‘deal’ in different ways. I think it’s true that the way we handle ourselves in any given situation is a true testament to our character. Despite the fact that this story found obvious and obscure ways to torment me, it gave a raw and sincere depiction of reality that I quite enjoyed.
Simply put, this story was incredibly beautiful. If it didn’t make it to the top of most 2017 best reads, I’d be surprised. The plot was intricate while being easy at the same time. I went into this story blind and I’m still not sure if it was the best thing. Then again, I’m not sure if knowing this story would have made a difference. The author put my emotions through the wringer at every step and while it was frustrating as hell, it only made me love this story more.
Although I wasn’t the biggest fan of Parker (I actually found her pathetic), I hoped as much for her to find a happy ending as I hoped for her to find herself. This poor girl was lost and it was clear that her life experience was lacking based on her thoughts and actions. She suffered from limited emotional and mental development and I was grateful to the author for not glossing over her shortcomings. It made Parker realistic and therefore endeared her to me. As for the male characters of this book, I have mixed feelings. What I am sure of is that I adored Levi. He was just so right. He was humble, kind, generous, free-spirited, and absolutely lovely. His fine looks and wealth were simply bonuses to this amazing character.
Not to spoil anything, but the plot twist really threw me for a loop. I had no idea the author was going to take the story there. Who could have ever expected that??? At first I didn’t know how the author was going to get me back on board because I couldn’t foresee my heart becoming re-invested in this. But the magician known as Jewel E. Ann pulled a rabbit out of her hat and I was powering through these pages. I couldn’t get enough of the dynamic between the characters. If you’re a fan of stories that take you on a journey and may test your boundaries, this one should be right up your alley.
Release: 06.03.2017 | Contemporary Romance | Multiple POV | Heat: 3 | Standalone
All views expressed are my own. 100% honest. 100% of the time!!
Temptation no longer resided in his blind spot. She lived a hundred yards away. - Gus
Simply put, this story was incredibly beautiful. If it didn’t make it to the top of most 2017 best reads, I’d be surprised. The plot was intricate while being easy at the same time. I went into this story blind and I’m still not sure if it was the best thing. Then again, I’m not sure if knowing this story would have made a difference. The author put my emotions through the wringer at every step and while it was frustrating as hell, it only made me love this story more.
Although I wasn’t the biggest fan of Parker (I actually found her pathetic), I hoped as much for her to find a happy ending as I hoped for her to find herself. This poor girl was lost and it was clear that her life experience was lacking based on her thoughts and actions. She suffered from limited emotional and mental development and I was grateful to the author for not glossing over her shortcomings. It made Parker realistic and therefore endeared her to me. As for the male characters of this book, I have mixed feelings. What I am sure of is that I adored Levi. He was just so right. He was humble, kind, generous, free-spirited, and absolutely lovely. His fine looks and wealth were simply bonuses to this amazing character.
“I’m afraid of having everything that means nothing and nothing that means everything.” - Levi
Not to spoil anything, but the plot twist really threw me for a loop. I had no idea the author was going to take the story there. Who could have ever expected that??? At first I didn’t know how the author was going to get me back on board because I couldn’t foresee my heart becoming re-invested in this. But the magician known as Jewel E. Ann pulled a rabbit out of her hat and I was powering through these pages. I couldn’t get enough of the dynamic between the characters. If you’re a fan of stories that take you on a journey and may test your boundaries, this one should be right up your alley.
Release: 06.03.2017 | Contemporary Romance | Multiple POV | Heat: 3 | Standalone
All views expressed are my own. 100% honest. 100% of the time!!
July 26, 2017
oh, fuckity fuck...
*covers her eyes with the palms of her hands*
God dammit!!!!
It made me think too much on the things that usually make me so pissed off and I don't condone...and it made me look into the gray area on the subjects I don't give a rats ass worth in the first place...
God dammit!!!!
There were so many issues i didn't like, in fact I hated them...I hated the characters' actions, thoughts and less credible justifications...
And that made me mad...cause I couldn't see the justification, I couldn't find it within me to make the characters lovable in my eyes...yeah, they were imperfect, with flaws, mistakes BUT what they lacked was GUT!!!
Fuckin GUT to deal with the shit before it got out of hand, before it got more complicated, before it made a bigger unjustifiable crap of the lowest human's weakness...
And than the second part pulled through...and i started to like the book...
And the characters...
And still the biggest lack was the pacing...all of it felt rushed and forced and i didn't truly buy it...i wasn't involved otherwise than being pissed...and now I feel like i have anger issues😏 lol (hopefully that s not the case!)
Either way, i have a general notion that this story wasn't for me...
I wasn't invested enough, and the questions of the "cheating" term wasn't believably presented for me, even though the author tried to "explain" that not everything is black & white but very much gray...which i absolutely support in every other aspect of life...but just not this!
So, yeah life happens...but I still think we, humans are somewhat more superior than the primal animalistic urges and impulses...that "the power of control and reasoning" sets us apart from other lesser beings driven by simple urges...
Well, at least I like to think so...
So, to say that the 'desire' overcame a person's sense of 'right & wrong', 'etical' simply doesn't work for me as a means of justification for acting out on the basic human weakness...or pulses between the legs
(don't judge, I'm complicated and special like that *wink*)
Guess, I'm in minority again...😒
*covers her eyes with the palms of her hands*
God dammit!!!!
It made me think too much on the things that usually make me so pissed off and I don't condone...and it made me look into the gray area on the subjects I don't give a rats ass worth in the first place...
God dammit!!!!
There were so many issues i didn't like, in fact I hated them...I hated the characters' actions, thoughts and less credible justifications...
And that made me mad...cause I couldn't see the justification, I couldn't find it within me to make the characters lovable in my eyes...yeah, they were imperfect, with flaws, mistakes BUT what they lacked was GUT!!!
Fuckin GUT to deal with the shit before it got out of hand, before it got more complicated, before it made a bigger unjustifiable crap of the lowest human's weakness...
And than the second part pulled through...and i started to like the book...
And the characters...
And still the biggest lack was the pacing...all of it felt rushed and forced and i didn't truly buy it...i wasn't involved otherwise than being pissed...and now I feel like i have anger issues😏 lol (hopefully that s not the case!)
Either way, i have a general notion that this story wasn't for me...
I wasn't invested enough, and the questions of the "cheating" term wasn't believably presented for me, even though the author tried to "explain" that not everything is black & white but very much gray...which i absolutely support in every other aspect of life...but just not this!
But love is an emotion that resides in your head and your proverbial heart. It has to be nurtured to grow or it dies. But … desire … it’s instinctual. Physical. Carnal. And when it wants its way, your brain shuts down and the only heart you hear is that blood-pumping organ in your chest. A slave to your desire, readying your body to do one thing and one thing only …
So, yeah life happens...but I still think we, humans are somewhat more superior than the primal animalistic urges and impulses...that "the power of control and reasoning" sets us apart from other lesser beings driven by simple urges...
Well, at least I like to think so...
So, to say that the 'desire' overcame a person's sense of 'right & wrong', 'etical' simply doesn't work for me as a means of justification for acting out on the basic human weakness...or pulses between the legs
(don't judge, I'm complicated and special like that *wink*)
Guess, I'm in minority again...😒
August 17, 2021
“Yeah. Life never checks the forecast before it just decides to … happen.”
Well, I think this book pretty much sealed the deal that Jewel E. Ann can make me enjoy anything she writes even if it’s a trope/plot that I’m not a fan of. Her writing always keeps me guessing and on the edge of my seat for how things will go, because 98% of the time I can’t guess where her characters or her writing will take me, and I love it. She doesn’t hold back and she really doesn’t play it safe and I appreciate that in a read sometimes.
Outside of that, I truly adored this book. It was a bit of a forbidden romance, that covered heavy topics and had me quite emotional, but it was also sweet and fun in so many ways. It really is a great read if you’re looking for something that will keep you guessing and is really just a bunch of humans being incredibly human. Great read!
I’d also like to shout out Maren Lee who told me to read this book a few years ago, and I admittedly ignored her, because I don’t reach for this trope AT ALL, and yet…. she was right, it’s a great read! 🤣
Well, I think this book pretty much sealed the deal that Jewel E. Ann can make me enjoy anything she writes even if it’s a trope/plot that I’m not a fan of. Her writing always keeps me guessing and on the edge of my seat for how things will go, because 98% of the time I can’t guess where her characters or her writing will take me, and I love it. She doesn’t hold back and she really doesn’t play it safe and I appreciate that in a read sometimes.
Outside of that, I truly adored this book. It was a bit of a forbidden romance, that covered heavy topics and had me quite emotional, but it was also sweet and fun in so many ways. It really is a great read if you’re looking for something that will keep you guessing and is really just a bunch of humans being incredibly human. Great read!
I’d also like to shout out Maren Lee who told me to read this book a few years ago, and I admittedly ignored her, because I don’t reach for this trope AT ALL, and yet…. she was right, it’s a great read! 🤣
June 16, 2017
Damn, this is so hard to review without giving away any spoilers, gah! When Life Happened left me exhausted and conflicted because it's a total 5 star read for me yet it isn't because after "The Event" that happened half way (that gutted and pissed me off by the way) I kind of lost interest. Then the book took on a whole new spin and I was all in again, yet didn't want to be because of what happened the first half of the book. Shit, I'm talking in freaking code here lol.
There are a couple of triggers .... so be warned. I did have problems with how quickly Parker recovered after "The Event", it left me a bit twitchy yet that still couldn't take away from my 5 star rating. I loved Parker, she had some really shitty breaks in life yet kept on bouncing back and keeping on.
The second half of the book was absolutely gorgeous, it gave me chills, it made me swoon, I got a new hero for the very tippy top of my Perfect Heroes shelf and it ended with everything I want from a 5 star read. I bloody LOVED it!!
There are a couple of triggers .... so be warned. I did have problems with how quickly Parker recovered after "The Event", it left me a bit twitchy yet that still couldn't take away from my 5 star rating. I loved Parker, she had some really shitty breaks in life yet kept on bouncing back and keeping on.
The second half of the book was absolutely gorgeous, it gave me chills, it made me swoon, I got a new hero for the very tippy top of my Perfect Heroes shelf and it ended with everything I want from a 5 star read. I bloody LOVED it!!
June 15, 2017
2.5 Stars
I'm feeling really disappointed. I love Jewel E. Ann...I really do. Undeniably You is one of my favorite reads of 2015. That book still makes me emotional years later. I love her characters. They're are always different and refreshing. And this book was no different. I fell in love with Parker. She was spunky, no-filter, crazy but cool girl next door sort of heroine. I loved the hero Gus. He was just so real and I found myself falling for him more and more.
But 50% in I was like:
It frustrated me, it saddened me and unfortunately the rest of the story was not enough to make up for what happened at 50%. The first half was undoubtedly 5 stars! Hands down 5 stars! But it took a WWII fighter jet kinda nosedive and the story just never picked back up for me.
This one didn't go down so well....it had me feeling like:
With that said, when it come to books I like my formula. You know the formula: Boy meets girl, boy girl fall in love, boat sinks, boy dies....wait that's Titanic. You know what I mean! Rarely do I like to deviate from such formula. I love my HEA's, I don't need them all the time but at least 99.9% of the time and if there's not an HEA it better be a damn good story. I don't want much lol.
This review is just my opinion, a lot of people absolutely LOVED this book! And I have a feeling it will be loved by many...I just wish I was one of the many.
I'm feeling really disappointed. I love Jewel E. Ann...I really do. Undeniably You is one of my favorite reads of 2015. That book still makes me emotional years later. I love her characters. They're are always different and refreshing. And this book was no different. I fell in love with Parker. She was spunky, no-filter, crazy but cool girl next door sort of heroine. I loved the hero Gus. He was just so real and I found myself falling for him more and more.
But 50% in I was like:
It frustrated me, it saddened me and unfortunately the rest of the story was not enough to make up for what happened at 50%. The first half was undoubtedly 5 stars! Hands down 5 stars! But it took a WWII fighter jet kinda nosedive and the story just never picked back up for me.
This one didn't go down so well....it had me feeling like:
With that said, when it come to books I like my formula. You know the formula: Boy meets girl, boy girl fall in love, boat sinks, boy dies....wait that's Titanic. You know what I mean! Rarely do I like to deviate from such formula. I love my HEA's, I don't need them all the time but at least 99.9% of the time and if there's not an HEA it better be a damn good story. I don't want much lol.
This review is just my opinion, a lot of people absolutely LOVED this book! And I have a feeling it will be loved by many...I just wish I was one of the many.
June 6, 2017
Well Jewel E Ann. Up until 48% I was loving this story and it would have got 5 stars from me IF you had developed the love story between Gus and Parker BUT you spoiled it from that point on and it truly did not work. So much potential for a cracker of a story and to look at the desire/love between Gus and Parker - did they cheat, or what? and then you did that? I failed to understand why you would take us there.
I just did not get the whole insta love between Parker and Levi - it was too soon after what happened and even when he found out THAT secret- nope it didn't work for me.
Sabrina and Gus's relationship needed more exploration and who did SHE have the affair with? Again this could have a better impact if you took it further and just didn't drop the bomb.
So this is a nope from me because I thought I was I was reading three different books and really the story did not deliver what I was expecting from the synopsis.
I just did not get the whole insta love between Parker and Levi - it was too soon after what happened and even when he found out THAT secret- nope it didn't work for me.
Sabrina and Gus's relationship needed more exploration and who did SHE have the affair with? Again this could have a better impact if you took it further and just didn't drop the bomb.
So this is a nope from me because I thought I was I was reading three different books and really the story did not deliver what I was expecting from the synopsis.
March 12, 2018
i don't like being emotionally manipulated bye
June 6, 2017
It pains me to say that this one did not work for me. There were so many things that I wish had been different in this one.
First...I am a not a fan of instalove in a book. A book that has two cases of instalove? Um, yeah...that is a difficult thing for me to get over. I think had her love not been professed for Gus I may have been somewhat okay (well it wouldn't be this low of a rating for me) with this book. But I am not sure how someone can fall in love with TWO people within such a short amount of time. I'm talking about a week or so.
Then there's the fact that her sole purpose was to get a job. But in the end she never even got a job. I was a little shocked by that.
And, I think the whole Levi drama thing was a bit out of place. I am not sure what it really contributed to the story except some head shaking on my part.
Jewel E Ann is one of my fave authors but unfortunately this one did not do it for me. I feel like the synopsis was a bit misleading as well. UGH..I just wanted to love this one.
I think I may be in the minority here so if you love Jewel's writing then definitely give this one a try.
First...I am a not a fan of instalove in a book. A book that has two cases of instalove? Um, yeah...that is a difficult thing for me to get over. I think had her love not been professed for Gus I may have been somewhat okay (well it wouldn't be this low of a rating for me) with this book. But I am not sure how someone can fall in love with TWO people within such a short amount of time. I'm talking about a week or so.
Then there's the fact that her sole purpose was to get a job. But in the end she never even got a job. I was a little shocked by that.
And, I think the whole Levi drama thing was a bit out of place. I am not sure what it really contributed to the story except some head shaking on my part.
Jewel E Ann is one of my fave authors but unfortunately this one did not do it for me. I feel like the synopsis was a bit misleading as well. UGH..I just wanted to love this one.
I think I may be in the minority here so if you love Jewel's writing then definitely give this one a try.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
May 27, 2017
Poignant, sexy and so moving, When Life Happened will tear a hole in your heart and fill it back in piece by piece. I’m still thinking about it days later. 5 stars all the way from beginning to end. Just bring the tissues!
June 9, 2017
Incredible! I do not know if Jewel E. Ann is crazy or brilliant, but this book is amazing. I'm not even able to write review for it. There is no word to say that would describe all these feelings, you just have to read it.
And I really could end up on that, because when you have to write a review for the book, that you tag as 5-stars-is-not-enough then what more to say? For me, is the best book of the year, so far. I know some people are doing DNF, but really, I know what you feel, I know with what you're dealing with, but come on... this girl needs her HEA, so give her that!
As for the plot, this is the type of book that is better to read in the dark. You need to know that Parker Cruise is a slightly mad heroine. She is trying to become independent, move out from her parents's home and is looking for work. She finds it in her neighbors house. She becomes a assistant of a wife, handsome and forbidden Gus.
This is for those who are not afraid to cry in the book, but they also like a good laugh. In a sense also for those who like second chances. This is a very emotional and has a surprising twists.
I found in it everything I love while reading books and more. I would recommend it to everyone, knowing that it probably with break their hearts, but also will give hope and leave with a smile on their faces at the end. You know when life happened...
***
ARC kindly provided for an honest review. Thank you!
And I really could end up on that, because when you have to write a review for the book, that you tag as 5-stars-is-not-enough then what more to say? For me, is the best book of the year, so far. I know some people are doing DNF, but really, I know what you feel, I know with what you're dealing with, but come on... this girl needs her HEA, so give her that!
As for the plot, this is the type of book that is better to read in the dark. You need to know that Parker Cruise is a slightly mad heroine. She is trying to become independent, move out from her parents's home and is looking for work. She finds it in her neighbors house. She becomes a assistant of a wife, handsome and forbidden Gus.
This is for those who are not afraid to cry in the book, but they also like a good laugh. In a sense also for those who like second chances. This is a very emotional and has a surprising twists.
I found in it everything I love while reading books and more. I would recommend it to everyone, knowing that it probably with break their hearts, but also will give hope and leave with a smile on their faces at the end. You know when life happened...
***
ARC kindly provided for an honest review. Thank you!
Displaying 1 - 30 of 1,439 reviews