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Fate's Love #1
Fate's Love
When you meet that one person in the world meant for you... you should hold onto them.
Olivia Bannon walked away.
Twice.
When 17-year-old Livy meets Ethan, she can’t deny their inexplicable connection. Lost in his dark, intense eyes and smile-to-die-for, Livy never thought she would feel like this. It almost makes her want to break her childhood vow, but Livy knows happily ever after is just an illusion, and despite her heart wanting Ethan, her head is telling her to stick with the plan. The one that doesn’t include falling in love. Period.
Eight years later, Livy finds herself back in her hometown. After the way she left things, the last time they were together, Livy is anxious about seeing Ethan again. It shouldn’t come as a shock to discover he has finally moved on—but it hurts. A lot. Accepting that she will never get the chance to put things right isn’t easy, but it’s not until life comes crashing down around her that Livy realizes what she could’ve had. Left broken, alone, and depressed, only one person can pull her out—the guy she thought she'd pushed away one too many times.
Livy has finally realized that you can’t fight fate… Some things are just meant to be. Is this finally her time to get it right, or has Livy missed her last chance with Ethan?
Olivia Bannon walked away.
Twice.
When 17-year-old Livy meets Ethan, she can’t deny their inexplicable connection. Lost in his dark, intense eyes and smile-to-die-for, Livy never thought she would feel like this. It almost makes her want to break her childhood vow, but Livy knows happily ever after is just an illusion, and despite her heart wanting Ethan, her head is telling her to stick with the plan. The one that doesn’t include falling in love. Period.
Eight years later, Livy finds herself back in her hometown. After the way she left things, the last time they were together, Livy is anxious about seeing Ethan again. It shouldn’t come as a shock to discover he has finally moved on—but it hurts. A lot. Accepting that she will never get the chance to put things right isn’t easy, but it’s not until life comes crashing down around her that Livy realizes what she could’ve had. Left broken, alone, and depressed, only one person can pull her out—the guy she thought she'd pushed away one too many times.
Livy has finally realized that you can’t fight fate… Some things are just meant to be. Is this finally her time to get it right, or has Livy missed her last chance with Ethan?
300 pages, Paperback
First published September 30, 2014
About the author
L.A. Cotton
91 books3,025 followers Reckless Love. Wild Hearts.
L A COTTON is USA Today and Wall Street Journal bestselling author of over forty mature young adult and new adult novels, LA COTTON is happiest writing the kind of books she loves to read: addictive stories full of teenage angst, tension, twists and turns.
Home is a small town in the middle of England where she currently juggles being a full-time writer with being a mother/referee to two little people. In her spare time (and when she’s not camped out in front of the laptop) you’ll most likely find LA immersed in a book, escaping the chaos that is life.
L A loves connecting with readers, and you can find her at:
Official Website
www.lacotton.com
Social Media
www.facebook.com/authorlacotton
www.instagram.com/authorlacotton
L A COTTON is USA Today and Wall Street Journal bestselling author of over forty mature young adult and new adult novels, LA COTTON is happiest writing the kind of books she loves to read: addictive stories full of teenage angst, tension, twists and turns.
Home is a small town in the middle of England where she currently juggles being a full-time writer with being a mother/referee to two little people. In her spare time (and when she’s not camped out in front of the laptop) you’ll most likely find LA immersed in a book, escaping the chaos that is life.
L A loves connecting with readers, and you can find her at:
Official Website
www.lacotton.com
Social Media
www.facebook.com/authorlacotton
www.instagram.com/authorlacotton
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 119 reviews
September 25, 2014
Book – Fate’s Love (Fate’s Love #1)
Author – L.A. Cotton
Publication Date – September 30, 2014
Genre – Romance/New Adult
Type – Companion Series
Cliffhanger - No
Rating – 4 out of 5 Stars
Complimentary Copy generously provided by Author in exchange for an honest review.
My Thoughts - Story
So many times I wanted to bang my head against the wall and strangle the hell out of Livy. Couldn’t she see a good thing when it was standing right in front of her eyes? I wanted the shake the shit out of her or at least send a hitman and take Ethan for myself.
And Ethan? OMG – I was torn between getting pissed at him for setting himself up repeatedly for heart break and patting him on the back for his stubbornness when it came to Livy.
I felt myself so many times through the story getting ready to throw the book because how many times can you be rejected before you realize that it’s just not worth it anymore?
My Thoughts – Writing Style
Spectacular writing style and content by a debut author with smooth flow and very few to no editing errors. Ms. Cotton’s ability to pull the reader into the story is flawless along with her character development.
Re-Cap
Livy went through and experienced a lot of things in her youth that soiled her view of love and relationships. Watching her parents, her friends and others around her get burnt over and over by loved ones; turn Livy off from ever wanting a relationship for herself.
Never in a million years did Livy think a teenage boy would make her question the goals she set for herself nor would he continue to make her second guess her decisions for 8 years.
Reason for Reading – Author Request
Story Rating – 4 out of 5 Stars
Steam Rating – 3 out of 5 Stars
Angst Rating – 4.5 out of 5 Stars
Writing Rating – 4 out of 5 Stars
Content Flow Rating – 4 out of 5 Stars
Heroine/Personality – Livy/Headstrong, Annoying at times
Hero/Personality – Ethan/Sweet, Caring & Loving
HEA (Spoiler) -
Would Read More from Author? Yes
Recommend To – Readers who like angst and romances that are a roller-coaster of emotions
Author – L.A. Cotton
Publication Date – September 30, 2014
Genre – Romance/New Adult
Type – Companion Series
Cliffhanger - No
Rating – 4 out of 5 Stars
Complimentary Copy generously provided by Author in exchange for an honest review.
My Thoughts - Story
So many times I wanted to bang my head against the wall and strangle the hell out of Livy. Couldn’t she see a good thing when it was standing right in front of her eyes? I wanted the shake the shit out of her or at least send a hitman and take Ethan for myself.
And Ethan? OMG – I was torn between getting pissed at him for setting himself up repeatedly for heart break and patting him on the back for his stubbornness when it came to Livy.
I felt myself so many times through the story getting ready to throw the book because how many times can you be rejected before you realize that it’s just not worth it anymore?
My Thoughts – Writing Style
Spectacular writing style and content by a debut author with smooth flow and very few to no editing errors. Ms. Cotton’s ability to pull the reader into the story is flawless along with her character development.
Re-Cap
Livy went through and experienced a lot of things in her youth that soiled her view of love and relationships. Watching her parents, her friends and others around her get burnt over and over by loved ones; turn Livy off from ever wanting a relationship for herself.
Never in a million years did Livy think a teenage boy would make her question the goals she set for herself nor would he continue to make her second guess her decisions for 8 years.
Reason for Reading – Author Request
Story Rating – 4 out of 5 Stars
Steam Rating – 3 out of 5 Stars
Angst Rating – 4.5 out of 5 Stars
Writing Rating – 4 out of 5 Stars
Content Flow Rating – 4 out of 5 Stars
Heroine/Personality – Livy/Headstrong, Annoying at times
Hero/Personality – Ethan/Sweet, Caring & Loving
HEA (Spoiler) -
Would Read More from Author? Yes
Recommend To – Readers who like angst and romances that are a roller-coaster of emotions
May 21, 2015
Right upfront, I acknowledge that I'm the odd person out. The majority of reviews give this one high marks. And believe me, I wanted to open the pages and love every word as well. But I absolutely could not connect with the characters (for the most part, Olivia) or the storyline in the manner it was written.
This story takes place over 8 years -- beginning in the senior year of high school for Ethan and Olivia. So much of this book felt skeletal -- it needed more meat on those bones. The relationship (and I find it hard to even name it as such) was 8 years of an overload of coincidences that hardly marked getting to know one another through conversations or dates. Spending a few moments in each other's company every three or four years before Olivia turns tail and runs at the smallest and far less than solid reasoning just doesn't seem like a normal or natural basis for building the forever kind of love in my opinion. Olivia drove me completely crazy with her wishy-washy attitude and one-sided thinking. Frankly, I just didn't like this girl.
At the 70% point, there is finally a little dialogue between Olivia and Ethan. And believe me, it wasn't because Ethan hadn't tried and tried and tried for years. The author told the story from Olivia's POV, but there just wasn't enough dialogue or natural blending of these two individuals to give this one a realistic or believable feeling. Having Ethan's POV included may have helped in adding depth and rationalization, but I'm not even sure that could have pulled this one out for me.
There was a wonderful premise for the storyline. This book could have been, should have been, and would have been as the saying goes, really compelling if only the emotional development could have been present. As I came to the end, I just felt it was lacking interactive feelings and emotions and depth in the development.
Readers do get a complete happy-ever-after for this couple in an Epilogue -- and I was very thankful for the closure.
This story takes place over 8 years -- beginning in the senior year of high school for Ethan and Olivia. So much of this book felt skeletal -- it needed more meat on those bones. The relationship (and I find it hard to even name it as such) was 8 years of an overload of coincidences that hardly marked getting to know one another through conversations or dates. Spending a few moments in each other's company every three or four years before Olivia turns tail and runs at the smallest and far less than solid reasoning just doesn't seem like a normal or natural basis for building the forever kind of love in my opinion. Olivia drove me completely crazy with her wishy-washy attitude and one-sided thinking. Frankly, I just didn't like this girl.
At the 70% point, there is finally a little dialogue between Olivia and Ethan. And believe me, it wasn't because Ethan hadn't tried and tried and tried for years. The author told the story from Olivia's POV, but there just wasn't enough dialogue or natural blending of these two individuals to give this one a realistic or believable feeling. Having Ethan's POV included may have helped in adding depth and rationalization, but I'm not even sure that could have pulled this one out for me.
There was a wonderful premise for the storyline. This book could have been, should have been, and would have been as the saying goes, really compelling if only the emotional development could have been present. As I came to the end, I just felt it was lacking interactive feelings and emotions and depth in the development.
Readers do get a complete happy-ever-after for this couple in an Epilogue -- and I was very thankful for the closure.
Want to read
February 14, 2015Free on Amazon today!
UK - http://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B00NZ9SK1O...
US - http://www.amazon.com/Fates-Love-Book...
UK - http://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B00NZ9SK1O...
US - http://www.amazon.com/Fates-Love-Book...
October 13, 2014
** TARA'S 4.5 STAR REVIEW **
Olivia Bannon has her life mapped out, and love does not fit in her plan. She works hard and sets goals. She does not like things getting in the way of her path, and disturbing her rhythm. Insert Ethan Shaw. From the moment he laid eyes on Liv, she is all he can think about.
Stolen kisses, and one night stands. The universe keeps pushing these two together. Olivia is not willing to let Ethan in, and throughout the course of a many years, runs from Ethan every chance she gets.
“I’m not letting you run out on me tonight, Liv. You owe me tonight.”
With fate pushing these two together, and Olivia pulling them apart, it’s a roller coaster ride of epic proportions.
When a terrible accident threatens everything comfortable in Olivia’s life, she realizes that everything she had been pushing away is exactly what she needs. Is it too late? Has she pushed Ethan too far away and into the arms of another woman?
~~~~~~~~~~
When I started this book, I wasn’t quite sure it was for me. I generally don’t find myself interested in a story that starts out in the YA genre. There was something that just kept drawing me in and I continued on wondering where this story was going to go. I am SO glad that I did.
I fell in love with this story, and could relate on many levels to Olivia’s plight. She only knew to protect her heart from what she witnessed her father do to her mother.
I loved how everything played out, the angst of their story kept me running back to my Kindle and cuddled in bed on a rainy Sunday afternoon so I could see how things would all work out.
The characters in the book were all well developed, including the secondary characters. It appears that Olivia’s BFF Sharn has her own story coming soon which I am anticipating.
Do yourself a favor and pick up this book!
Olivia Bannon has her life mapped out, and love does not fit in her plan. She works hard and sets goals. She does not like things getting in the way of her path, and disturbing her rhythm. Insert Ethan Shaw. From the moment he laid eyes on Liv, she is all he can think about.
Stolen kisses, and one night stands. The universe keeps pushing these two together. Olivia is not willing to let Ethan in, and throughout the course of a many years, runs from Ethan every chance she gets.
“I’m not letting you run out on me tonight, Liv. You owe me tonight.”
With fate pushing these two together, and Olivia pulling them apart, it’s a roller coaster ride of epic proportions.
When a terrible accident threatens everything comfortable in Olivia’s life, she realizes that everything she had been pushing away is exactly what she needs. Is it too late? Has she pushed Ethan too far away and into the arms of another woman?
~~~~~~~~~~
When I started this book, I wasn’t quite sure it was for me. I generally don’t find myself interested in a story that starts out in the YA genre. There was something that just kept drawing me in and I continued on wondering where this story was going to go. I am SO glad that I did.
I fell in love with this story, and could relate on many levels to Olivia’s plight. She only knew to protect her heart from what she witnessed her father do to her mother.
I loved how everything played out, the angst of their story kept me running back to my Kindle and cuddled in bed on a rainy Sunday afternoon so I could see how things would all work out.
The characters in the book were all well developed, including the secondary characters. It appears that Olivia’s BFF Sharn has her own story coming soon which I am anticipating.
Do yourself a favor and pick up this book!
November 18, 2014
Fate's Love is a wonderful story about 2nd and even 3rd and 4th chances. It just proves that when something's meant to be - time nor distance can prevent it.
Livy first met Ethan at 17. One kiss and she had fallen for him but she had to walk away. See, she has her life all planned out but there's no room for a boyfriend or a life. She's had experiences in her past that makes her believe that love is nothing but a myth. Fate wants to show her differently.
Over the course of several more years Ethan and Livy continue to run into one another. There's always a pull and chemistry. There's always a situation that presents itself to show her that she and Ethan belong together. Yet she can't see the forest for trees. Unfortunately, something happens that catches Livy's attention and shows her what a sad existence she's living in. But is it too late? Has Fate decided to step back and let Livy make her own choices? How many times must Fate say "hello ~~ this is your life and your soulmate - take it"??
Will Ethan still be there for her and love her despite all her runnings and throwing her own obstacles at them? Or has he moved on? Read Fate's Love and see for yourself. You won't regret it.
I absolutely adored this story. I cried a little and I yelled a little. I can't wait to read more from Ms. Cotton.
Livy first met Ethan at 17. One kiss and she had fallen for him but she had to walk away. See, she has her life all planned out but there's no room for a boyfriend or a life. She's had experiences in her past that makes her believe that love is nothing but a myth. Fate wants to show her differently.
Over the course of several more years Ethan and Livy continue to run into one another. There's always a pull and chemistry. There's always a situation that presents itself to show her that she and Ethan belong together. Yet she can't see the forest for trees. Unfortunately, something happens that catches Livy's attention and shows her what a sad existence she's living in. But is it too late? Has Fate decided to step back and let Livy make her own choices? How many times must Fate say "hello ~~ this is your life and your soulmate - take it"??
Will Ethan still be there for her and love her despite all her runnings and throwing her own obstacles at them? Or has he moved on? Read Fate's Love and see for yourself. You won't regret it.
I absolutely adored this story. I cried a little and I yelled a little. I can't wait to read more from Ms. Cotton.
July 17, 2014
I was lucky enough to receive this book as an ARC, and I must say, I was very impressed. The author informed me that this was her first attempt at writing - not publishing, not sending it out for review, first time writing EVER. I may only have one published book under my belt, but I have been writing since I was about eight years old, as have a lot of "authors."
So knowing that, honestly, I expected it to be bad. Choppy, poor plot, bad dialogue - typical first time writer stuff. WRONG. I was blown away by her natural talent - I have beta-read and read quite a few ARCs, from new and "long time" indie authors, and her book is hands down the best, particularly from a technical stand point. Girl can write, point blank, period.
This book spans many years, which I love stories like that, and we start out with Livvy has an already-jaded teenager. She wants to concentrate on school, get good grades, and continue on with her life plan - a plan that DOES NOT include love. She's seen how well that's worked out for her friends and family *NOT* and she doesn't want that for herself.
At least, that's what she thinks, till she meets Ethan.
Ooooohhhh, the Ethan. If you like your male leads sugary sweet and all-over-you with penetrating stares (and who wouldn't!?), Ethan is the man for you. I loved every single scene with Ethan, the author managed to write this character perfectly - almost too good to believe, but you do, whole-heartedly. Ethan is the book-boyfriend you take home to meet your mom, brag about to your friends, and OF COURSE he will propose to you in just the right way, after which he will fulfill all your dreams. If you can't tell, I totally fell in love with him.
This is a will-they-won't-they style of novel, with LOTS of anticipation. If you don't mind randomly screaming "WHAT ARE YOU THINKING!? GO TO HIM!!!" at your kindle, then this is a great choice for you. I will admit, though, I wanted to smack Liv upside the head from about the halfway point on the book and on, and though I understood her hang-up with not wanting to fall in love, I thought she was a little over-the-top about it.
Be prepared to be impressed, and to fall in love with this cast of characters! GAH! I forgot to mention the side characters - her college roomie, her high school besties, all awesome!
Watch this author. She is one of those ones you will be able to say "I read her before she was famous."
So knowing that, honestly, I expected it to be bad. Choppy, poor plot, bad dialogue - typical first time writer stuff. WRONG. I was blown away by her natural talent - I have beta-read and read quite a few ARCs, from new and "long time" indie authors, and her book is hands down the best, particularly from a technical stand point. Girl can write, point blank, period.
This book spans many years, which I love stories like that, and we start out with Livvy has an already-jaded teenager. She wants to concentrate on school, get good grades, and continue on with her life plan - a plan that DOES NOT include love. She's seen how well that's worked out for her friends and family *NOT* and she doesn't want that for herself.
At least, that's what she thinks, till she meets Ethan.
Ooooohhhh, the Ethan. If you like your male leads sugary sweet and all-over-you with penetrating stares (and who wouldn't!?), Ethan is the man for you. I loved every single scene with Ethan, the author managed to write this character perfectly - almost too good to believe, but you do, whole-heartedly. Ethan is the book-boyfriend you take home to meet your mom, brag about to your friends, and OF COURSE he will propose to you in just the right way, after which he will fulfill all your dreams. If you can't tell, I totally fell in love with him.
This is a will-they-won't-they style of novel, with LOTS of anticipation. If you don't mind randomly screaming "WHAT ARE YOU THINKING!? GO TO HIM!!!" at your kindle, then this is a great choice for you. I will admit, though, I wanted to smack Liv upside the head from about the halfway point on the book and on, and though I understood her hang-up with not wanting to fall in love, I thought she was a little over-the-top about it.
Be prepared to be impressed, and to fall in love with this cast of characters! GAH! I forgot to mention the side characters - her college roomie, her high school besties, all awesome!
Watch this author. She is one of those ones you will be able to say "I read her before she was famous."
November 7, 2014
When I first started reading this book, I thought it was going to be your typical YA book about letting your first love go and the regret that follows. I was wrong. While it starts with characters of YA age, it’s much more than that.
Livy has closed her heart to love after watching how her dad leaving affected her mum. Let’s be real, who could blame her in a way? Having said that, she meets Ethan, a boy in her school who she can’t forget, yet nothing happens between them, until prom. After a kiss, Livy leaves Ethan behind her, and moves onto college.
College is a bit of an eye opener for her, but Livy continues on her path, following her life plan. Yes, she dates more, but it’s never anything serious, nothing to disrupt her life. Until one night, her casual boyfriend gets a bit too handsy. Ethan suddenly shows up and the pair of them rekindle what they had in high School, but yet again, Livy runs away from possible commitment. Following on from these events, Livy moves on with her life, mostly following her plan to a tea.
Overall, this books is a good read, easy to slip in to when a reader has a spare hour or two. It’s paced well, and the flow of the story moves really well. The characters are well rounded, likeable and relateable. Livy’s best friend Sharn had her moments where I wanted to smack her, but her heart was in the right place.
Most of the book is relateable to the readers, who can imagine themselves in Livy’s place, or even empathise with her due to effects in their own lives.
Cotton has captured regret and lost love flawlessly, my only issue was the way Livy constantly refused to open her heart to love, even just a little. She sometimes came across as a little stand offish in places, but it was never annoying, just a little irritating.
I will definitely be reading the second book in the series.
Livy has closed her heart to love after watching how her dad leaving affected her mum. Let’s be real, who could blame her in a way? Having said that, she meets Ethan, a boy in her school who she can’t forget, yet nothing happens between them, until prom. After a kiss, Livy leaves Ethan behind her, and moves onto college.
College is a bit of an eye opener for her, but Livy continues on her path, following her life plan. Yes, she dates more, but it’s never anything serious, nothing to disrupt her life. Until one night, her casual boyfriend gets a bit too handsy. Ethan suddenly shows up and the pair of them rekindle what they had in high School, but yet again, Livy runs away from possible commitment. Following on from these events, Livy moves on with her life, mostly following her plan to a tea.
Overall, this books is a good read, easy to slip in to when a reader has a spare hour or two. It’s paced well, and the flow of the story moves really well. The characters are well rounded, likeable and relateable. Livy’s best friend Sharn had her moments where I wanted to smack her, but her heart was in the right place.
Most of the book is relateable to the readers, who can imagine themselves in Livy’s place, or even empathise with her due to effects in their own lives.
Cotton has captured regret and lost love flawlessly, my only issue was the way Livy constantly refused to open her heart to love, even just a little. She sometimes came across as a little stand offish in places, but it was never annoying, just a little irritating.
I will definitely be reading the second book in the series.
July 19, 2014
~RECEIVED AN ARC FOR HONEST REVIEW~
I got a chance to read this first time writer a looong time ago, and was pretty shocked at how good it was!!! I love a good love story, and this was definitely that.
It's starts off with Olivia as a teen-ager, and she bumps into Ethan at a party. Never met him before, but there's an instant spark. The scene is written so well, that I totally felt like I was in high school again. I think we all had at least one of those moments, ya know, where the guy you think is cute talks to you and you basically piddle yourself. Not that Livy acts that way, she's over the whole "love thing", and it hasn't even happened for her yet!
Fast foreward to college, and Livy is like a whole different person, which I think is fun to read about how people change, cause we all do. Another couple run-ins with Ethan. Another couple years. You also get to follow along with her friends, and there's some pretty good ones in there, I hope we get to read more about them some day!
Then as I'm reading along, totally absorbed in the amazing build-up the writer created, and BAM! Huge plot-curve to the right, smacked me upside the head. Huh!? Wha!? Did not see that coming. Now what!?
I liked the main characters struggles, the way Liv dealt with things in a very no-nonsense manner. No wishy-washy girliness for her!! And Ethan with his melt-your-heart gaze, sigh.
Good read! Very sweet! Make sure you check this book out
I got a chance to read this first time writer a looong time ago, and was pretty shocked at how good it was!!! I love a good love story, and this was definitely that.
It's starts off with Olivia as a teen-ager, and she bumps into Ethan at a party. Never met him before, but there's an instant spark. The scene is written so well, that I totally felt like I was in high school again. I think we all had at least one of those moments, ya know, where the guy you think is cute talks to you and you basically piddle yourself. Not that Livy acts that way, she's over the whole "love thing", and it hasn't even happened for her yet!
Fast foreward to college, and Livy is like a whole different person, which I think is fun to read about how people change, cause we all do. Another couple run-ins with Ethan. Another couple years. You also get to follow along with her friends, and there's some pretty good ones in there, I hope we get to read more about them some day!
Then as I'm reading along, totally absorbed in the amazing build-up the writer created, and BAM! Huge plot-curve to the right, smacked me upside the head. Huh!? Wha!? Did not see that coming. Now what!?
I liked the main characters struggles, the way Liv dealt with things in a very no-nonsense manner. No wishy-washy girliness for her!! And Ethan with his melt-your-heart gaze, sigh.
Good read! Very sweet! Make sure you check this book out
October 13, 2014
***Copy generously provided in exchange for an honest review***
My thoughts/views:
As far as angsty, roller-coaster stories go. On a scale of 1 - 100 ( 1 being no angst, 100 being...OMG! I'm going to break something in a minute angst) Fate's Love is way up there well beyond 100!
Also, don't get me started on the main female character, Livy! It's fair to say that she well and truly made me want to literally pull my hair out, one strand at a painful time. It annoyed the hell out of me that Mr Perfect was dangling right there in front of her, yet for some reason, why couldn't she see that?
Ethan was the perfect main leading guy. He was sweet, patient (OMG was that poor guy patient) and every woman's perfect dream guy. So why couldn't Livy see this? Grrrrrrrr.
Honestly, the first half of the story was predictable for me, and I found myself becoming more and more annoyed with Livy. I couldn't really see why she didn't want to give them a try, and why she kept denying their obvious chemistry. Poor Ethan spent a lot of the story being rejected, and abandoned by Liv. Despite the predictability I felt, I still thoroughly enjoyed the story.
THEN BANG....
OMG did the whole equilibrium of the story change for me, and all predictability i'd previously felt had suddenly been thrown out of the window. There was suddenly an unbelievable, emotional reason for why Ethan and Livy just couldn't be, and I was hooked! Hook, line and well and truly sunk.
Fate's Love is L.A. Cottons first novel, and I'm sure that we will be reading much, much more from this amazing new debuting author.
The story flowed really well, and was exceptionally well written. It flowed beautifully and each scene was described in a way as to draw you into the story. A beautiful story of a love which transcends the sands of time.
The characters were magnetic, and despite Livy's annoying irritating ability to push Ethan away. She was still an enjoyable character to become emersed in. And the more you read, and dug into her life, you begin to sympathise with her reasoning behind her apprehension to have a relationship with Ethan.
Overall, I would highly recommend Fate's Love to anyone who loves a good roller-coaster of story, and an emotionally sweet romantic love story. I would totally 100% love to read more of L.A's future books. Theres definately more to come :)
4 out of 5 stars from me.
My thoughts/views:
As far as angsty, roller-coaster stories go. On a scale of 1 - 100 ( 1 being no angst, 100 being...OMG! I'm going to break something in a minute angst) Fate's Love is way up there well beyond 100!
Also, don't get me started on the main female character, Livy! It's fair to say that she well and truly made me want to literally pull my hair out, one strand at a painful time. It annoyed the hell out of me that Mr Perfect was dangling right there in front of her, yet for some reason, why couldn't she see that?
Ethan was the perfect main leading guy. He was sweet, patient (OMG was that poor guy patient) and every woman's perfect dream guy. So why couldn't Livy see this? Grrrrrrrr.
Honestly, the first half of the story was predictable for me, and I found myself becoming more and more annoyed with Livy. I couldn't really see why she didn't want to give them a try, and why she kept denying their obvious chemistry. Poor Ethan spent a lot of the story being rejected, and abandoned by Liv. Despite the predictability I felt, I still thoroughly enjoyed the story.
THEN BANG....
OMG did the whole equilibrium of the story change for me, and all predictability i'd previously felt had suddenly been thrown out of the window. There was suddenly an unbelievable, emotional reason for why Ethan and Livy just couldn't be, and I was hooked! Hook, line and well and truly sunk.
Fate's Love is L.A. Cottons first novel, and I'm sure that we will be reading much, much more from this amazing new debuting author.
The story flowed really well, and was exceptionally well written. It flowed beautifully and each scene was described in a way as to draw you into the story. A beautiful story of a love which transcends the sands of time.
The characters were magnetic, and despite Livy's annoying irritating ability to push Ethan away. She was still an enjoyable character to become emersed in. And the more you read, and dug into her life, you begin to sympathise with her reasoning behind her apprehension to have a relationship with Ethan.
Overall, I would highly recommend Fate's Love to anyone who loves a good roller-coaster of story, and an emotionally sweet romantic love story. I would totally 100% love to read more of L.A's future books. Theres definately more to come :)
4 out of 5 stars from me.
July 30, 2016
3.1 Stars
First, I want to say that I enjoyed the premise of this book. However, the actual things that made up the book, are what I didn’t enjoy. It needed more filler and extra meat to connect and flesh out the plot. Without those things, the book seemed to be lacking, and nothing felt complete or genuine.
It dragged on, and I felt like certain parts were unnecessary. If I had to sum this book up in a few words, it would be that the story lacked depth, descriptions, and believable substances.
To get me wrong, it was great to see the main character in three stages of her life, however, I wish that during those stages there would have been more depth, descriptions, and of course, that it would have been more believable.
There a few tragedies, and I’m thankful that the author included them. It somewhat made a difference and showed that life isn’t perfect.
Character Analysis
The story mostly follows Olivia, so we spend the most time with her. I felt indifferent about Olivia. She felt distance to me, and I didn’t connect to her. Yes, I knew that she had her whole life planned out, but what else? I must say, that her character development at the end is prominent. The author did do that justice.
Fate’s Love takes place over eight years, and throughout those eight years, Olivia and Ethan meet a couple of times. They were “ coincidental ”. They exchanged a couple of words, and Olivia withdraws for whatever reason and goes on with her life. Because of the lack of communication and insta-love, their relationship felt very unbelievable and frustrating.
If the two had spent a solid amount of time together in high school, I would have felt the chemistry and actual understood their relationship. Because it lack multiple attributes, I kept waiting for that moment that would help me understand them.
After finishing, I still don’t have a strong sense of who Ethan was. And I’m not sure if Olivia did either.
Final Analysis
Fate’s Love had a strong premise, but the story lacks important attributes that would have made it a great love story. It is an easy read, that does include a happy ending.
First, I want to say that I enjoyed the premise of this book. However, the actual things that made up the book, are what I didn’t enjoy. It needed more filler and extra meat to connect and flesh out the plot. Without those things, the book seemed to be lacking, and nothing felt complete or genuine.
It dragged on, and I felt like certain parts were unnecessary. If I had to sum this book up in a few words, it would be that the story lacked depth, descriptions, and believable substances.
To get me wrong, it was great to see the main character in three stages of her life, however, I wish that during those stages there would have been more depth, descriptions, and of course, that it would have been more believable.
There a few tragedies, and I’m thankful that the author included them. It somewhat made a difference and showed that life isn’t perfect.
Character Analysis
The story mostly follows Olivia, so we spend the most time with her. I felt indifferent about Olivia. She felt distance to me, and I didn’t connect to her. Yes, I knew that she had her whole life planned out, but what else? I must say, that her character development at the end is prominent. The author did do that justice.
Fate’s Love takes place over eight years, and throughout those eight years, Olivia and Ethan meet a couple of times. They were “ coincidental ”. They exchanged a couple of words, and Olivia withdraws for whatever reason and goes on with her life. Because of the lack of communication and insta-love, their relationship felt very unbelievable and frustrating.
If the two had spent a solid amount of time together in high school, I would have felt the chemistry and actual understood their relationship. Because it lack multiple attributes, I kept waiting for that moment that would help me understand them.
After finishing, I still don’t have a strong sense of who Ethan was. And I’m not sure if Olivia did either.
Final Analysis
Fate’s Love had a strong premise, but the story lacks important attributes that would have made it a great love story. It is an easy read, that does include a happy ending.
December 5, 2015
Fate's Love is such a sweet read. Fate's Love follows the story of Livy and Ethan. Livy has her life perfectly planned out. She's focused on school and the path she wants to take. Unfortunately, her plan does not include dating or falling in love....Everything changes when Livy meets Ethan. They share an intense connection, that no matter how hard Livy tries, she can't deny that there is something there. Unfortunately life has disappointed her to the point that she feels that love is just an illusion and that happily ever afters don't exist. Fate, however has other plans...
Over the course of 8 years, Livy and Ethan share more than a handful of chance encounters and missed opportunities. Circumstances beyond Livy's control force her to see that her life is sad, lonely and that everyone around her is moving on, while she is just standing still. Will Livy finally get past her issues with love? How many times can fate present you with what you want before it's too late to accept it???
Fate's Love is a wonderful story about friendship, chance encounters, hope and of course, Fate. I loved how the friendships in the story were written. It felt like I was sitting around with my girlfriends, discussing life's disappointments and of course love! I found the characters to be very easy to relate to and at times, I felt like I was right there with them in the story. The chance encounters with Ethan were one of my favorite parts of the story. I was always wondering and looking forward to when Livy and Ethan would run into one another again. Ethan was totally swoon worthy and I loved how he did not give up on Livy.
Love's Fate made me laugh, cry, fall in love and at times frustrated me(frustrated me in a good way). It had the sweetest ending and left me with the biggest smile on my face! Fate's Love is a great debut novel and I'm looking forward to reading more from this author in the future.
*****I received an ARC of this book in exchange for an honest review*****
Over the course of 8 years, Livy and Ethan share more than a handful of chance encounters and missed opportunities. Circumstances beyond Livy's control force her to see that her life is sad, lonely and that everyone around her is moving on, while she is just standing still. Will Livy finally get past her issues with love? How many times can fate present you with what you want before it's too late to accept it???
Fate's Love is a wonderful story about friendship, chance encounters, hope and of course, Fate. I loved how the friendships in the story were written. It felt like I was sitting around with my girlfriends, discussing life's disappointments and of course love! I found the characters to be very easy to relate to and at times, I felt like I was right there with them in the story. The chance encounters with Ethan were one of my favorite parts of the story. I was always wondering and looking forward to when Livy and Ethan would run into one another again. Ethan was totally swoon worthy and I loved how he did not give up on Livy.
Love's Fate made me laugh, cry, fall in love and at times frustrated me(frustrated me in a good way). It had the sweetest ending and left me with the biggest smile on my face! Fate's Love is a great debut novel and I'm looking forward to reading more from this author in the future.
*****I received an ARC of this book in exchange for an honest review*****
September 5, 2014
When Olivia Bannon is seventeen and a senior in high school she meets Ethan. She has a plan for her life so even though she finds him interesting she doesn't act on it. She puts her studies first because she has a plan for her life and a guy isn't part of that plan. She has never even been kissed. Her sister talks her into attending a party and she sees Ethan again. He takes her hand and walks her outside and kisses her. Later at college she is working as a waitress and she sees Ethan again. She had been seeing a man just for sex and she had tried to break it off but he has become a stalker. He starts to bother her at work and Ethan protects her from him. He invites her to call him but she never does. When she graduates from college she returns home to finish her education. She got a job at Julia's coffeehouse. While working in comes Ethan with an older lady, who is his grandmother. Livy has a close relationship to her grandmother and she really likes this side of Ethan. When she is finally ready to go after Ethan she finds out he is involved with someone else. When her grandmother gets ill she starts to take her to appointments when she runs into Ethan again with his grandmother. They start to talk and she wants them to become friends, if that is possible. When Livy's grandmother passes away she goes into a great depression. There is only one person who can help her but is it too late. This is a great story even though at times I got feed up with Livy rejecting Ethan. I know you will enjoy it.
December 28, 2014
Reviewed for Sarah & Kirsty's Book Reviews
Warning: this book contains the most stubborn female lead character you are ever likely to read! Olivia doesn’t believe in love after seeing how it destroyed her mother and how it destroys her friends. She is focused solely on her career goals. Then she meets adorable sweet Ethan. Livy knows there is some feeling there from the moment she first meets him, however she can’t give her heart to him so she runs. A lot. Ethan doesn’t give up though. This book is told in 3 parts which works well as we see different phases of both Livy and Ethan’s life as they grow up. Livy really annoyed me, I lost count of the number of times I wanted to shout at my kindle and just tell her to go for it. And then that one part where she got drunk? My kindle nearly got thrown at the wall; I had to step away for 5 minutes before I could carry on! I adored Ethan from the get go, he had a lot more patience than I would have in his situation but that just added to his charm and proved how devoted he was to Livy. Reading this book, I find it hard to believe that this is L.A. Cotton’s debut novel as it was just that good. The epilogue was perfect and sealed the ending for me. I can’t wait to read more of L.A. Cotton’s work and see where she takes us next. 5 stars!
Warning: this book contains the most stubborn female lead character you are ever likely to read! Olivia doesn’t believe in love after seeing how it destroyed her mother and how it destroys her friends. She is focused solely on her career goals. Then she meets adorable sweet Ethan. Livy knows there is some feeling there from the moment she first meets him, however she can’t give her heart to him so she runs. A lot. Ethan doesn’t give up though. This book is told in 3 parts which works well as we see different phases of both Livy and Ethan’s life as they grow up. Livy really annoyed me, I lost count of the number of times I wanted to shout at my kindle and just tell her to go for it. And then that one part where she got drunk? My kindle nearly got thrown at the wall; I had to step away for 5 minutes before I could carry on! I adored Ethan from the get go, he had a lot more patience than I would have in his situation but that just added to his charm and proved how devoted he was to Livy. Reading this book, I find it hard to believe that this is L.A. Cotton’s debut novel as it was just that good. The epilogue was perfect and sealed the ending for me. I can’t wait to read more of L.A. Cotton’s work and see where she takes us next. 5 stars!
August 12, 2016
I have never read a book by this author and I am happy to say, I am so glad this was my first. This is a true love story. One people dream about and cry about. The emotions that were put into this story are remarkable. It is gut wrenching at times. It shows that life has a way of doing things. Sometimes love can't be rushed. It takes its time.
Olivia is a girl that has had all hope of love ripped from her at such an early age. She doesn't want to go through heartbreak so she built walls to keep love out. She is a determined person. She knows what she wants for her future and love isn't one of them, why would anyone want to love someone that will eventually leave? But fate and destiny have a funny way of doing things. Sometimes someone comes into your life without any warning. And that someone is Ethan.
Through the ups and downs and all the hurdles that life throws at her, Ethan seems to always be put in her path. She fights the pull they have with each other at every turn.
When she finally realizes that she is going to end up alone she decides it's time to let love in. But is it to late? With Ethan seeing someone else (8 years later) she is has come to terms that maybe his fate is with someone else.
Will she let love in? Will it be to late? Can the stars align for these two? Only time will tell!!
Olivia is a girl that has had all hope of love ripped from her at such an early age. She doesn't want to go through heartbreak so she built walls to keep love out. She is a determined person. She knows what she wants for her future and love isn't one of them, why would anyone want to love someone that will eventually leave? But fate and destiny have a funny way of doing things. Sometimes someone comes into your life without any warning. And that someone is Ethan.
Through the ups and downs and all the hurdles that life throws at her, Ethan seems to always be put in her path. She fights the pull they have with each other at every turn.
When she finally realizes that she is going to end up alone she decides it's time to let love in. But is it to late? With Ethan seeing someone else (8 years later) she is has come to terms that maybe his fate is with someone else.
Will she let love in? Will it be to late? Can the stars align for these two? Only time will tell!!
December 11, 2014
This was one of the best books I have read this year (there are many) L.A. Cotton has out done her self!! Olivia is determined that she will never let her self fall into love and leave her self to get heart broken. So she puts her self to work by studying and doing school work no dating period! Her best friend Sharn is a party girl and loves to date and Amber is looking for her true love. Meanwhile, Livy runs into a guy she's never seen before (Ethan) when she is at her locker and there is something about him she can't quite figure out what it is. They keep bumping into each other and she's determined that she will not fall for him she has to stay focused! But will it be to late or will she continue on focusing in her schooling?!? You have to get this book it is amazing I laughed, I cried, I wanted to scream "what are you doing!!!" Lol if you haven't read this yet you should I couldn't put it down! I read it in one day L.A. Cotton knows how to suck you into her stories and it feels like you know the characters and you are living right there with them. She has a wonderful gift for writing and I highly recommend her books!! :)
August 23, 2016
Fate's Love by L.A. Cotton is the first book in the series also titled Fate's Love. It is a sweet contemporary romance that features a second-chance love story of a sort. Olivia Bannon never really allowed her and Ethan's story to begin. Always shutting it down before anyone got too involved but as fate decided, they were already destined for each other.
The story was told well. Well written and paced well if a little on the slow side. The characters were dimensional and genuine, and Olivia was definitely flawed. I took issue a few times with her inability to just take a chance on Ethan and by the end of the story I was beyond frustrated with her. But that just means that she was written well if such emotions towards fictional characters can be evoked.
Low on steam and high on sweet and emotional this was an enjoyable read.
The story was told well. Well written and paced well if a little on the slow side. The characters were dimensional and genuine, and Olivia was definitely flawed. I took issue a few times with her inability to just take a chance on Ethan and by the end of the story I was beyond frustrated with her. But that just means that she was written well if such emotions towards fictional characters can be evoked.
Low on steam and high on sweet and emotional this was an enjoyable read.
January 23, 2015
Olivia Bannon has been hurt and she swears she's never going to put herself in that position again. She has her life planned out and her plans don't include Ethan. Sometimes you have to put your heart on the line in order to really live, but she's not willing to compromise.
Olivia's character is pretty naive and stubborn in the love department and I found myself really wanting to slap some sense into her at times, but what I wouldn't give if the dreamy and very patient Ethan were to only have eyes for me!
If this is L.A. Cotton's debut novel...I can't wait to see how she grows! Fate's Love is a great start to the Fate's Love series, but can be read as a standalone - no cliff hangers here. This is a great New Adult novel that tells the tale of emotional scarring and one young woman's attempt move through life without risking her heart.
Olivia's character is pretty naive and stubborn in the love department and I found myself really wanting to slap some sense into her at times, but what I wouldn't give if the dreamy and very patient Ethan were to only have eyes for me!
If this is L.A. Cotton's debut novel...I can't wait to see how she grows! Fate's Love is a great start to the Fate's Love series, but can be read as a standalone - no cliff hangers here. This is a great New Adult novel that tells the tale of emotional scarring and one young woman's attempt move through life without risking her heart.
June 24, 2015
Received a free copy for my honest review for Fallen for Books.
Wow. Where do I even begin with this book? This book has everything you could possibly want in a Contemporary Romance/College Romance Book. Love, loss, heartache. It's got it all.
The main character Livy, had her whole life planned out. School, friends, and going to college. She didn't have time for anything else. Well then in walks Ethan. Kind of.
We follow Livy through her senior year of high school until grad school. And boy does this girl have some crazy luck. She tries to hard to plan her life, but fate has other plans for her.
Kind of drove me crazy that she stayed on her path and refused to veer off of it. Regardless of her happiness. But Livy will be Livy. Really great story.
Wow. Where do I even begin with this book? This book has everything you could possibly want in a Contemporary Romance/College Romance Book. Love, loss, heartache. It's got it all.
The main character Livy, had her whole life planned out. School, friends, and going to college. She didn't have time for anything else. Well then in walks Ethan. Kind of.
We follow Livy through her senior year of high school until grad school. And boy does this girl have some crazy luck. She tries to hard to plan her life, but fate has other plans for her.
Kind of drove me crazy that she stayed on her path and refused to veer off of it. Regardless of her happiness. But Livy will be Livy. Really great story.
Read
July 15, 2015A super duper cute story about second chances....third chances......or love that even the universe can't seem to forget.
Olivia and Ethan's story is unique and I really enjoyed reading it no matter the amount of angst. They are both characters that you can easily fall in love with, and wish their story would never end. It's definitely an adult read but it's still very clean so I recommend it to all romance readers. It's a feel good love story that you shouldn't pass up.
This isn't the first I read from this author I actually read book three in this series first. They are stand-alone books so it really didn't pose a problem. Anyways I look forward to more from this author, maybe this series too.
Olivia and Ethan's story is unique and I really enjoyed reading it no matter the amount of angst. They are both characters that you can easily fall in love with, and wish their story would never end. It's definitely an adult read but it's still very clean so I recommend it to all romance readers. It's a feel good love story that you shouldn't pass up.
This isn't the first I read from this author I actually read book three in this series first. They are stand-alone books so it really didn't pose a problem. Anyways I look forward to more from this author, maybe this series too.
August 16, 2016
Once again L.A. Cotton shows us that no matter where we go or why we cannot escape love. I loved that Olivia knows what she wants in life but sad that she doesn`t really know what life means. We see a beautiful girl maturing before our eyes yet she is missing one thing in her life and that is love. She is afraid to let her heart love and yet Ethan still determined to be with her. Have to say Ethan`s presence is the only time we see Olivia really be herself and not what she is supposed to be. In a way Ethan makes her better and L.A. Cotton shows us that no matter how much you run love will bite you. Loved it.
November 24, 2014
omg i have tears running down my face after read this it's so beautifully written and pulls you in whether you want to or not. Oliver is a beautiful character and i feel in love with her instantly the way she tried to guard herself i understood it all and the fact that Ethan never gave up on her no matter what. rally shows you that fate can be a bitch and you cant fight her cause whats meant to be will be.
i recommend this to everyone that loves a sweet romance story that makes you work for the romance and watch how the characters grow and change as the years pass. go buy your copy today.
i recommend this to everyone that loves a sweet romance story that makes you work for the romance and watch how the characters grow and change as the years pass. go buy your copy today.
January 4, 2015
Fate's Love is a story about two people who finally get their chance at love. Ethan and Livy met back when they were in high school. They were attracted to each other but after graduating, went their separate ways. Throughout the years they run into each other again, but there is always something that keeps them apart.
This book is definitely full of angst! My heart broke for Ethan and Livy over and over again. I wanted them to be together so bad. They both deserved their happily ever afters.
This is the first book I've read by L.A. Cotton and I thoroughly enjoyed it.
This book is definitely full of angst! My heart broke for Ethan and Livy over and over again. I wanted them to be together so bad. They both deserved their happily ever afters.
This is the first book I've read by L.A. Cotton and I thoroughly enjoyed it.
September 17, 2014
ARC received from Author in return for an honest review
Fates Love is full of emotions
Livvy and Ethan meet in high school and this book covers 3 parts of their lives spanning an 8 year period. Fate keeps stepping I and bringing them together right when they need to see each other.
There are lots of ups and downs and plenty happening throughout the book
Fates Love flows really well and is easy to follow
Fates Love is full of emotions
Livvy and Ethan meet in high school and this book covers 3 parts of their lives spanning an 8 year period. Fate keeps stepping I and bringing them together right when they need to see each other.
There are lots of ups and downs and plenty happening throughout the book
Fates Love flows really well and is easy to follow
September 25, 2014
Review to follow
August 21, 2014
Read original review here: http://wp.me/p4agP8-CC
**ARC provided from author in exchange for an honest review**
This was SUCH a nice surprise. I got this ARC a few days ago and I was hooked from the start. I enjoyed every page, even though I was frustrated at times (in a good way), but I just couldn’t stop reading. Which is always good, very good.
A little bit about the story.
Fate’s Love tells the story of Olivia Bannon. First it starts with her as a teenager, she’s about to graduate from high school, has all her life planned out, and she can’t wait to get everything she ever wanted, which is get through high school, college and get her degree. And only that. She has never needed a boy by her side because, to her, happily ever afters don’t exist. Boys get you distracted from what you want and they’ll only break your heart. If her father, the man who was supposed to love her no matter what, could leave her and never look back, how can a boy stay with her? Make her happy? Not hurt her? She doesn’t get it. That is, until she meets Ethan *swoon*, and even then, she can’t really give herself completely. So she walks away. Not only once, but twice.
But fate has its own way of doing things.
I really like that the story was set in different times, I mean, first we meet everyone while they’re in high school, then, Livy goes to college, meets new people, experience new things, except falling for someone. Sometimes, the story was a little slow, but then it would pick up a little, hooking me up again. I enjoyed every second of it.
Olivia *Livy* Bannon is a really centered kind of girl. She’s set to do whatever she has to do to get into college and getting her degree, even if that means staying home studying and missing all the parties everyone’s so enthralled with. So, when she finally goes to one of these parties, she’s not expecting to meet sweet and gorgeous Ethan. The attraction is instant and the pull toward each other couldn’t be any more obvious. Even then she could feel something strange, something she hadn’t felt before. But it’s also something intriguing. And there’s nothing she can do about those feelings except hide them from everyone else, but herself.
She’s really stubborn, let me tell you. I was so frustrated at times because there was no way she was going to let him in. Not when he told her how he felt about her in high school, not when he told her, yet again, how he felt about her in college. More than once I wanted to grab her and yell at her, because seriously, Ethan was just so sweet.
Ethaaaan. Well, he is something. I loved his sweetness, his patience, his strength, his vulnerability and the fact that he always ended up in Livy’s life, some way or another. He was always there to support her, even when she wouldn’t accept him into her life, he was always there for her. I just loved him.
There were a few things I noticed though. What happened to Livy’s sister? What changed her mind? I mean, I know she was only a teenager when the book started, and that was probably the reason why she was so mean to Livy and everyone else.. but then, when they got older, it was like they were always best friends. I mean, I assume she just grew up and realized she had a good sister, so she didn’t have to be mean, but, I would’ve liked to read a little more if something happened that made her change her mind, did they got closer when Livy went to college?
Another thing I noticed was that, Livy never actually said the words “I love you” to Ethan and if she did, I don’t remember it. I believe, since she was the one who had trust issues and love issues, that would’ve helped her grow a bit more and would’ve let her let him in.
I really liked the book, it was very interesting and hooked me from the start.
Thank you L.A. Cotton for letting me read your book!
**ARC provided from author in exchange for an honest review**
This was SUCH a nice surprise. I got this ARC a few days ago and I was hooked from the start. I enjoyed every page, even though I was frustrated at times (in a good way), but I just couldn’t stop reading. Which is always good, very good.
A little bit about the story.
Fate’s Love tells the story of Olivia Bannon. First it starts with her as a teenager, she’s about to graduate from high school, has all her life planned out, and she can’t wait to get everything she ever wanted, which is get through high school, college and get her degree. And only that. She has never needed a boy by her side because, to her, happily ever afters don’t exist. Boys get you distracted from what you want and they’ll only break your heart. If her father, the man who was supposed to love her no matter what, could leave her and never look back, how can a boy stay with her? Make her happy? Not hurt her? She doesn’t get it. That is, until she meets Ethan *swoon*, and even then, she can’t really give herself completely. So she walks away. Not only once, but twice.
But fate has its own way of doing things.
I really like that the story was set in different times, I mean, first we meet everyone while they’re in high school, then, Livy goes to college, meets new people, experience new things, except falling for someone. Sometimes, the story was a little slow, but then it would pick up a little, hooking me up again. I enjoyed every second of it.
Olivia *Livy* Bannon is a really centered kind of girl. She’s set to do whatever she has to do to get into college and getting her degree, even if that means staying home studying and missing all the parties everyone’s so enthralled with. So, when she finally goes to one of these parties, she’s not expecting to meet sweet and gorgeous Ethan. The attraction is instant and the pull toward each other couldn’t be any more obvious. Even then she could feel something strange, something she hadn’t felt before. But it’s also something intriguing. And there’s nothing she can do about those feelings except hide them from everyone else, but herself.
She’s really stubborn, let me tell you. I was so frustrated at times because there was no way she was going to let him in. Not when he told her how he felt about her in high school, not when he told her, yet again, how he felt about her in college. More than once I wanted to grab her and yell at her, because seriously, Ethan was just so sweet.
Ethaaaan. Well, he is something. I loved his sweetness, his patience, his strength, his vulnerability and the fact that he always ended up in Livy’s life, some way or another. He was always there to support her, even when she wouldn’t accept him into her life, he was always there for her. I just loved him.
There were a few things I noticed though. What happened to Livy’s sister? What changed her mind? I mean, I know she was only a teenager when the book started, and that was probably the reason why she was so mean to Livy and everyone else.. but then, when they got older, it was like they were always best friends. I mean, I assume she just grew up and realized she had a good sister, so she didn’t have to be mean, but, I would’ve liked to read a little more if something happened that made her change her mind, did they got closer when Livy went to college?
Another thing I noticed was that, Livy never actually said the words “I love you” to Ethan and if she did, I don’t remember it. I believe, since she was the one who had trust issues and love issues, that would’ve helped her grow a bit more and would’ve let her let him in.
I really liked the book, it was very interesting and hooked me from the start.
Thank you L.A. Cotton for letting me read your book!
August 27, 2016
º°✩ARC provided by author for an honest review✩º°∘
☆Title: Fate's Love (Fate's Love #1)
☆Series: 3 Book Series
☆Author: L.A Cotton
☆Genre: Contempory Romance, Romance
☆Format: E-copy
☆Published: 30 September 2014
☆Rating: 5 ✩'s
I had a good feeling from the beginning that this book was going to be amazing! Not only was it amazing, I think this book will stay for me with the rest of my life.
It's been such a long time since I've read a great love story. And this love story found a special place in my heart.
This book plays out over 8 years. 8 years where fate kept turning the tables in a certain direction.
Olivia Bannon (Livy), is certain that she will never let her heart be broken by love. She vowed to herself that she will never let herself go through the pain she saw her mother go through after her dad walked out on them. Her mother just wasn't the same after that.. Even though she did meet her second husband, and they were happily married, she just knew her mother was different. A broken heart can change a person.
Being the "team Mom" and picking up the broken pieces of her friends' hearts after a relationship gone wrong, Livy kept telling herself she needed to focus on school, graduate and go to college. There was no place for a guy in her life plan. Little did Livy know that one night at a party, she was peer pressured to go to would change her life. Her best friend Sharnai (Sharn) was at her antics again dancing and catching the attention of guys. She wanted to catch the attention of the player Devon Price. After getting into an argument with Livy about leaving with Devon, Livy was left to walk home alone. But to Livy's surprise a nice looking guy that went to their school offered to walk her home. He and his friend also thought it was time to go home, so why not walk with her.
Livy's whole life changed at the sight of Ethan Shaw. As hard as she tried, she never could forget him. Fate made them walk into each other at the most random of places and over a course of years. Every time she stuffed that weird feeling she got when being around Ethan to the bottom of her heart. She will not get hurt. She will not love someone or be loved.
After graduation all her friends started their lives, and that automatically included love & relationships. Livy was the only one focused on college, not having time for a boyfriend. Years passed and she kept on walking into Ethan, what was fate trying to do?
After a horrific car accident Livy realized that what was important to her, wasn't really that important anymore. She changed her whole outlook on life, and knew the one thing that was missing from her life was Ethan. It was too late though, he already moved on. After all the times Livy ran out on him, how could he not move on.
Fate took Livy on a road that kept turning back to the one person she needed, she knew she wanted, but couldn't have - Ethan.
Follow this amazingly written love story of how Fate plays a role in love. This is a gripping tale and I was addicted to every word. I started to worry when only two chapters where left, there was still so much that had to happen! I didn't dare hope it was a cliff-hanger, because if it was I would have pestered the author for answers. But no need to worry, it's not a cliff-hanger. It's a carefully constructed plan by Fate to get two hearts together as one.
My favourite quote: " Each caress of our lips speaking a thousand words". Now that's a kiss worth having all the trouble for.
☆Title: Fate's Love (Fate's Love #1)
☆Series: 3 Book Series
☆Author: L.A Cotton
☆Genre: Contempory Romance, Romance
☆Format: E-copy
☆Published: 30 September 2014
☆Rating: 5 ✩'s
I had a good feeling from the beginning that this book was going to be amazing! Not only was it amazing, I think this book will stay for me with the rest of my life.
It's been such a long time since I've read a great love story. And this love story found a special place in my heart.
This book plays out over 8 years. 8 years where fate kept turning the tables in a certain direction.
Olivia Bannon (Livy), is certain that she will never let her heart be broken by love. She vowed to herself that she will never let herself go through the pain she saw her mother go through after her dad walked out on them. Her mother just wasn't the same after that.. Even though she did meet her second husband, and they were happily married, she just knew her mother was different. A broken heart can change a person.
Being the "team Mom" and picking up the broken pieces of her friends' hearts after a relationship gone wrong, Livy kept telling herself she needed to focus on school, graduate and go to college. There was no place for a guy in her life plan. Little did Livy know that one night at a party, she was peer pressured to go to would change her life. Her best friend Sharnai (Sharn) was at her antics again dancing and catching the attention of guys. She wanted to catch the attention of the player Devon Price. After getting into an argument with Livy about leaving with Devon, Livy was left to walk home alone. But to Livy's surprise a nice looking guy that went to their school offered to walk her home. He and his friend also thought it was time to go home, so why not walk with her.
Livy's whole life changed at the sight of Ethan Shaw. As hard as she tried, she never could forget him. Fate made them walk into each other at the most random of places and over a course of years. Every time she stuffed that weird feeling she got when being around Ethan to the bottom of her heart. She will not get hurt. She will not love someone or be loved.
After graduation all her friends started their lives, and that automatically included love & relationships. Livy was the only one focused on college, not having time for a boyfriend. Years passed and she kept on walking into Ethan, what was fate trying to do?
After a horrific car accident Livy realized that what was important to her, wasn't really that important anymore. She changed her whole outlook on life, and knew the one thing that was missing from her life was Ethan. It was too late though, he already moved on. After all the times Livy ran out on him, how could he not move on.
Fate took Livy on a road that kept turning back to the one person she needed, she knew she wanted, but couldn't have - Ethan.
Follow this amazingly written love story of how Fate plays a role in love. This is a gripping tale and I was addicted to every word. I started to worry when only two chapters where left, there was still so much that had to happen! I didn't dare hope it was a cliff-hanger, because if it was I would have pestered the author for answers. But no need to worry, it's not a cliff-hanger. It's a carefully constructed plan by Fate to get two hearts together as one.
My favourite quote: " Each caress of our lips speaking a thousand words". Now that's a kiss worth having all the trouble for.
December 1, 2014
I'm reading all and every book I can get at the moment in an effort to understand what is out there, what ideas are dominant and how contemporary writers see the world around themselves, especially in their chosen genre.
The more I read the more I identify that too much, in all genres, is becoming formulaic. If we look at romances, or family orientated stories, we find that although the characters have to go through a crisis they don't do so alone.
In 'Fate's Love' the principal character makes a decision to avoid men, based upon an experience of betrayal when she was a young girl. Now an over-reaction from such a young child is understandable, lack of experience means that the child considers that they might well have been the cause or the prime target of a particular decision. But what I don't like in this novel is that later experiences, within her own family, don't challenge that original analysis even when there are other positive role models.
Her contemporaries make mistakes and these reinforce her attitude but she lacks the ability to see that life, even in the most ideal of circumstances, doesn't always go the way you want. In fact, if life was plain sailing it would soon become boring, there being no challenges to face and possibly fail.
After a 'near death' experience she starts to question her past stance towards men, or one in particular, but even then she makes heavy going of it all. However, surrounded by a loving and supportive mix of family and friends she pulls through and so we get the expected happy ending.
I suppose I've become too cynical to read such romances which always have the expected ending but I would like to see us get there without there being this wealth of support that just isn't there in the real world, for the vast majority of people. Getting to the happy ending against all odds would make for a better read – but then that wasn't the intention of the author.
After that gripe I have to say this was an easy read and LA Cotton has produced a good (if not highly original) example of the genre.
A Goodreads First Reads winner.
The more I read the more I identify that too much, in all genres, is becoming formulaic. If we look at romances, or family orientated stories, we find that although the characters have to go through a crisis they don't do so alone.
In 'Fate's Love' the principal character makes a decision to avoid men, based upon an experience of betrayal when she was a young girl. Now an over-reaction from such a young child is understandable, lack of experience means that the child considers that they might well have been the cause or the prime target of a particular decision. But what I don't like in this novel is that later experiences, within her own family, don't challenge that original analysis even when there are other positive role models.
Her contemporaries make mistakes and these reinforce her attitude but she lacks the ability to see that life, even in the most ideal of circumstances, doesn't always go the way you want. In fact, if life was plain sailing it would soon become boring, there being no challenges to face and possibly fail.
After a 'near death' experience she starts to question her past stance towards men, or one in particular, but even then she makes heavy going of it all. However, surrounded by a loving and supportive mix of family and friends she pulls through and so we get the expected happy ending.
I suppose I've become too cynical to read such romances which always have the expected ending but I would like to see us get there without there being this wealth of support that just isn't there in the real world, for the vast majority of people. Getting to the happy ending against all odds would make for a better read – but then that wasn't the intention of the author.
After that gripe I have to say this was an easy read and LA Cotton has produced a good (if not highly original) example of the genre.
A Goodreads First Reads winner.
August 24, 2014
ARC copy provided for honest review.
I was lucky enough to have beta read Fate's Love very early on and loved it from the start. I especially like the way it is split into three parts, charting different periods of Liv's life. The author did an excellent job of showing her growing and maturing over the years.
Olivia (Liv) is my favourite type of female character. Independent, knows her own mind, what she wants and goes for it. There were times when I wished she would stray from her plan and give Ethan a chance but I understood her reluctance and kept hoping they would finally get together.
When her well planned life unexpectedly changes she begins to realise that she might have missed out on love and it might be too late now. This part of the book was well written and really captures Liv's downward spiral and how she manages to put her life back together.
At this point Ethan makes an appearance but everything has changed and my heart sank when she realises she may have pushed him away one too many times. Throughout the book they seem to be destined to be together but something kept them apart.
There were so many scenes that I loved, too many to list and I don't want to spoil any of the book. Fate's Love had plenty of highs and lows and plenty of excellent characters. Lianne has created a great cast of characters that all helped make it a great story.
The granny was a great character, always dispensing advice and words of wisdom and a lot of the time she had me in tears.
Ethan is definitely a new book boyfriend, apart from being gorgeous, slightly mysterious he was kind and thoughtful and always there for Liv, turning up when she needed him most. He never gave up on her.
Loved the ending, it was just right and a perfect ending to their story, of course it had me in tears but they were happy tears. Fantastic book and looking forward to the rest in the series.
I was lucky enough to have beta read Fate's Love very early on and loved it from the start. I especially like the way it is split into three parts, charting different periods of Liv's life. The author did an excellent job of showing her growing and maturing over the years.
Olivia (Liv) is my favourite type of female character. Independent, knows her own mind, what she wants and goes for it. There were times when I wished she would stray from her plan and give Ethan a chance but I understood her reluctance and kept hoping they would finally get together.
When her well planned life unexpectedly changes she begins to realise that she might have missed out on love and it might be too late now. This part of the book was well written and really captures Liv's downward spiral and how she manages to put her life back together.
At this point Ethan makes an appearance but everything has changed and my heart sank when she realises she may have pushed him away one too many times. Throughout the book they seem to be destined to be together but something kept them apart.
There were so many scenes that I loved, too many to list and I don't want to spoil any of the book. Fate's Love had plenty of highs and lows and plenty of excellent characters. Lianne has created a great cast of characters that all helped make it a great story.
The granny was a great character, always dispensing advice and words of wisdom and a lot of the time she had me in tears.
Ethan is definitely a new book boyfriend, apart from being gorgeous, slightly mysterious he was kind and thoughtful and always there for Liv, turning up when she needed him most. He never gave up on her.
Loved the ending, it was just right and a perfect ending to their story, of course it had me in tears but they were happy tears. Fantastic book and looking forward to the rest in the series.
October 14, 2014
Ok so I started out reading this book with all the preconceived notions of thinking I could predict how this story was going to go down. You know the typical girl meets boy instant love attraction together forever blah,blah, blah! I thought I knew it all then out of no where the book smacks me in the face and I find out how wrong I was about Fate's Love! This story is so not the typical that at times I wanted to scream because it played on my last nerve buy in the most dynamic of ways. Livy (Olivia) Bannon the main character at times is the most infuriating person on the planet and yet there was something about her that kept me interested in finding out what made her tick. At a party she attends we meet Ethan the every girls dream guy! He had it all the looks right down to those irresistible eyes as well as the sweet mannered personality that made you want to melt every time he spoke. He and Livy were like fourth of July fireworks when they were simply in the room together yet Livy couldn't see it nor did she want to see it. She was to caught up in this life plan of hers to see that she had it all waiting for her to take and she walked away. I say she was afraid to love afraid to let her heart feel what true love was like. Sometimes the fairy tales get it right and true love does exist if only you allow your heart and your eyes see it. As Fate's love continues on I was hit with a Mack truck that I never saw coming and I was sitting on the edge of my seat hoping that it would all work out in the end. Hoping that this time Livy would see her happily ever after. I can honestly say that I truly was swept up in this book and loved all of it from the love story to the friendships that were meant to last a lifetime. I look forward to reading more from L.A. Cotton.
December 8, 2014
You would expect this book to be yet another one of those typical YA books about falling in love and letting them go but I was very wrong . Fate's Love is a beautifully written story about 2nd, 3rd and even 4th chances . It follows the story of Olivia ( Livy ) and Ethan . Livy has her life all mapped out with school, college and what sh's got planned on doing in the future. Everything changes when she briefly bumps into Ethan by her locker , he manages to invade her every thought but to let Ethan in she thinks would be a mistake so pushes him away .
Over the course of 8 years Ethan and Livy share only a handful of close encounters and close opportunities. Circumstances beyond Livy's control force her to see her life for what it is and how alone she is and will be if things can't be changed . Can she get Ethan back? Has she pushed him away one too many times ?
This is an easy book to read with characters that are magnetic and despite Livy's annoying ability to push Ethan away, she's still an enjoyable character that you hope and prey one day will find love . The more you read the more you begin to sympathise with her reluctance to have a relationship with anyone let alone Ethan !
I would highly recommend Fate's Love to anyone who loves a good old fashioned roller coaster of a story and full of emotion.
Lianne Cotton as a first time author has written the perfect love story with a good balance of upsets and heartaches , not forgetting chemistry that leaves you crying snot bubbles . Only a rare few authors have done this !
I CAN NOT WAIT TO EMERSE MYSELF INTO LOVE SPARKS !
Congratulations Lianne , as first book all I can say is outstanding !
Over the course of 8 years Ethan and Livy share only a handful of close encounters and close opportunities. Circumstances beyond Livy's control force her to see her life for what it is and how alone she is and will be if things can't be changed . Can she get Ethan back? Has she pushed him away one too many times ?
This is an easy book to read with characters that are magnetic and despite Livy's annoying ability to push Ethan away, she's still an enjoyable character that you hope and prey one day will find love . The more you read the more you begin to sympathise with her reluctance to have a relationship with anyone let alone Ethan !
I would highly recommend Fate's Love to anyone who loves a good old fashioned roller coaster of a story and full of emotion.
Lianne Cotton as a first time author has written the perfect love story with a good balance of upsets and heartaches , not forgetting chemistry that leaves you crying snot bubbles . Only a rare few authors have done this !
I CAN NOT WAIT TO EMERSE MYSELF INTO LOVE SPARKS !
Congratulations Lianne , as first book all I can say is outstanding !
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