The Break-up Expert Finds True Love
919154
I read the first chapter of this book when it was presented as a preview at the end of another book.  A story about a break-up expert seemed like it would be a novel and interesting read, and it was.  Chelsea and Callum met under difficult circumstances as Chelsea was representing Callum's soon to be ex-fiance.  When she left to go home, Callum followed her home, discovering that her home had been vandalized.  After calling the police and helping her clean up, Callum discovers that he wants to spend more time with Chelsea.  Their attraction to each other is quick and intense, but was this a rebound romance or true love?

 If you're looking for a feel good romance, you can't go wrong with this book.
1681155
I really enjoyed this book. I like that a man can can show how much a break-up can really effectively  them too.
2692102
I loved Darby's voice and attitude; Daily shows that even though Darby is a dating expert, she can still be thrown a curveball by life (and men). She winds up falling hard hard hard, and then has to make a very tough decision.  I loved the tension built up in the romance here, but I questioned a major turnaround Darby has at the end (I don't want to give it away). I understand why she made her decision, but it seemed slightly out of character, though was motivated by love. This is a rollicking romance but also one with a maternal emotional core, and the lessons Darby learns, as well as imparts, are valuable ones.

While I enjoyed Darby's hilarious stint on reality TV, what moved me more was her relationship with Holt and what she learns from it ("you can't manufacture love by adhering to a plan"). Perfect beach reading (or anywhere reading), it made me consider Darby's dating advice (some I agree with, some I didn't). Kudos to Daily for turning her real-life career as a dating expert into a fun novel that also gets at what being a stepmother, and falling for a family, not just a man, is all about.
3571918
In this lovers to enemies to lovers story (Is that an official romance trope? I think it should be!), Emma and Alex experienced a devastating breakup years earlier that gouged scars in both their hearts, scars that have healed over but never been forgotten. Now in the same circle of friends and working for sister magazine companies, they endure each other's company with studied indifference. When Alex is put temporarily in charge of Emma's magazine Stiletto, he challenges her to write a story about ex-boyfriends, knowing full well that he is on that list. In truth he's looking for some answers to what happened to them and hopes this will be a way to find them, and move on with his life once and for all. But finding themselves spending more and more time together it's easy to forget the past - until it rears it's ugly head again. This time will they be able to heal the heartbreak and rediscover their love for each other?

I loved this story! Seriously, from the moment I started it I had a grin on my face, reading avidly as Alex and Emma circle each other like sharks in a pond, knowing that eventually they would have to deal with the sexual attraction between them and no longer ignore the past. Emma is a strong, no-nonsense woman with valid reasons for closing herself off to Alex. Her past relationship with him has affected all future relationships and in researching her ex-boyfriend article she learns some truths about herself, truths that are difficult to swallow. Alex is an engaging figure as a friendly, forthright man, equally damaged though by the past and determined to put Emma behind him once and for all. Yet when they are in the same room together the indifference they feel is an act - they are constantly aware of each other and this ratchets up the sexual tension until they come to a point where it can no longer be denied. It's a slow pull exonerably forward, deliciously written so that the reader anticipates it with every situation they find themselves in. That's my favourite part of any romance and Lauren Layne is a master at that. The eventual love scenes between them are steamy and intense. But they don't solve the ultimate problem, which is discovering the truth behind their breakup, a truth that reveals the culpability of both of them in what happened. I confess that I shed a few tears as the truth of their breakup was revealed.

There are several secondary characters in the story, co-workers and friends of Alex and Emma that make the story a delightful read. Witty banter is part and parcel of these groups of friends and there were several laugh out loud moments. As I was reading, the men who work for Oxford, Stiletto's sister company became more and more intriguing to me and I was thrilled to discover at the end of the story that there is a series planned with them as well. That promises to be a winner! Overall, the story kept me engaged from the first page and I read it all in one shot, not being able to put it down until Alex and Emma got their happy ending. 5 stars for a fabulous read!
2224510
FOUND: HER LONG LOST HUSBAND is tightly constructed and emotionally moving short tender romance.  The third and final book in the SECRETS WE KEEP multi-author trilogy, this romance tells the story of three women from different countries who meet during a cycling charity event in the Himalayas.  The three women form a friendship and share secrets, inspiring the others to make changes in their lives.  Claire Mayfield had married Ethan Seaver in a Las Vegas wedding after a whirlwind romance.  Family secrets and power struggles ruined their short lived marriage.  Claire decides to put the past behind her and make a new life but when she confronts Ethan and past secrets are finally uncovered, her carefully laid plans may just veer off the course she intended. When true love is at stake, can two people find their way back to each other?

All three authors excel at creating a series that moved well between books.  Jackie Braun created a seamless flow between both the previous books and the series as a whole. FOUND: HER LONG LOST HUSBAND is a touching, tender romance guaranteed to stir the heart.  The family dynamics were suspenseful.  The struggles and misunderstandings of the hero and heroine in their youth make this second change romance a delightful read.  FOUND: HER LONG LOST HUSBAND is a perfect choice for a quiet evening read and rejuvenating retreat from everyday hectic life.
FOUND: HER LONG LOST HUSBAND is a great finale to a series that unites all three books and stands alone as a fantastic heart-warming romance.

Other Secrets We Keep romances:
Liz Fielding: Reunited: Marriage in a Million
Barbara Hannay: Needed: Her Mr. Right
3296328
First Lieutenant Thane Carter is in a serious online relationship with someone that he only knows as Ballerina Bun. She knows him as Drummer. They have cultivated a wonderful six-month relationship where their feelings are shooting past the friend zone. When they both encourage each other to make a real-life friend, Thane spots Chloe Michaels at a pool party and meets the woman of his dreams.

A most unfortunate thing happens. In short order, Thane realizes that she is his new co-worker, where there is a no fraternization policy amongst officers. Without any explanation, he shatters any illusion that they could develop anything beyond their all-too-brief encounter at the pool party. Before long, Thane realizes that Chloe is his Ballerina Bun, but he feels that hes been bamboozled.

This is a quick, light read with a sad twinge as I couldn't help but root for this couple to find a way to be together. I'm glad to say that this romance did not disappoint.
805484
I really enjoyed this book! Greg and Amiira's candor is gutsy and extremely helpful to those experiencing a break up. Highly recommend!
4166703
What a welcome result of the endeavor of two such talented authors.  As a collaborative practice attorney that empowers couples who are ending their relationships to avoid litigation, acrimony, and traditional court divorce I come into contact with, literally, hundreds of therapists.  Sheila and Teresa are two of the most gifted therapists that I have encountered, and two of the happiest people. I have personal experience of Sheila's effectiveness.  She brought a couple I represented who were committed to divorce back from the brink.  Their book,"How to be a Couple" synthesizes their personal and professional expertise in helping their clients sustain and improve their relationships and heal their wounds.  It will become a valuable part of my library of books I recommend.  It is an excellent read, and no matter the stage or condition of your relationship it has eye-opening suggestions to be happier, more loving, and more loved.  Read it.
21039
Dr. Diana Kirschner is a true expert in affairs of the heart.  From the start, Dr. Kirschner's "Love in 90 Days" affirms a sense of hope and confidence that we will find that special someone.  Building on that mindset, Dr. Kirschner's has laid out the program to do just that.  Additionally, her beautifully crafted progression of exercises expertly brings us to a place of self-love which is so essential for a lasting, healthy relationship.  Through each step in the process we learn to discern and recognize the qualitative characteristics of an optimal love partner as well as navigate the paths to finding them.  All along the way, Dr. Kirschner gently guides us into finding more and more about who we ourselves are as well as who we can become to sustain that ultimate love once we discover it.
4688678
Junior surgeon Kara Stephens has been assigned her very first high profile case, it's to help an injured princess. Fabulous news right ?

Not quite, when she has to work with hotshot Irish surgeon Declan Underwood. Now you might be thinking working with hot Dr is never bad for any woman, but when he is the same man she kissed at hospital ball, it places a whole new spin on the entire situation, talk about uncomfortable!

Declan is well known for being a total heartbreaker and woman all over would rather see him tied to a tree and be whipped then back in their beds, but lucky for him his legendary surgeon skills make up for it and he is famous in his own right.

His glamorous life in London however is a far cry from the poverty- stricken childhood he once knew, and he would rather keep hidden. But when Declan and Kara are tossed into each other's lives there is no denying their feels for each other, only Kara is not prepared for this to be a non lasting relationship and Declan does not believe it things lasting forever, if it does not work he walks away end of story of is is?

This was a very lovely afternoon read full of emotional drama and a sweet romance building to a passionate relationship. The characters were well written and the author created them both with realistic perfection , it was as if I was reading about a true life relationship instead of a fictionally created one.

Both characters emotions, actions and reactions were that of what we would do in real life, it did not feel as if it was something no person will say or do, I find in some medical romances that the actions and sayings of the characters just don't feel real and am left thinking " Really, where did the author come up with this?" , thankfully not the case in this medical romance, nicely done Louisa!

I am taking away a message of our past might not be anything like our current situations, it could be worse or better, but it does not matter. The point is how you handle your situation , if you flounce it off and try to cover it with misguided actions you will only be seen as a terrible person making you no better than your past. But if you face up to it and try to make it better than your past would have done, then the true you will show through.

I recommend this read for all fans of medical romance reads, that love a good and sweet tender romance with a bit of a feisty streak and crackling tension.

4 star review
" He's shameless in everything he does, she's the about to bring him to his knees"

** Copy provided in exchange for a honest review
3068836
Tara Fields' approach is warm and smart. She knows what she is talking about and it's clear that she truly loves helping people. Buy this book and you will use it and be glad to have it by your side.&nbsp;<a data-hook="product-link-linked" class="a-link-normal" href="/The-Love-Fix-Repair-and-Restore-Your-Relationship-Right-Now/dp/006240721X/ref=cm_cr_arp_d_rvw_txt?ie=UTF8">The Love Fix: Repair and Restore Your Relationship Right Now</a>
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<a data-hook="product-link-linked" class="a-link-normal" href="/By-Any-Other-Name/dp/B005IHDNBI/ref=cm_cr_arp_d_rvw_txt?ie=UTF8">By Any Other Name</a>
Andrew Beckett Jr. and his partner Thomas Williams were in the process of making muffins when they received a phone call from the head psychiatrist at Haven Institute in Boston.  Dru's long lost best friend Skye Walker needs a temporary place to begin rebuilding his life.  Love quickly grows between the three men and a temporary guest becomes a permanent resident.

By Any Other Name is a psychological journey to wellness story.  The intriguing plot illustrates the impact on Skye's mind after he suffered five years of unimaginable abuse.  Regaining an emotionally normal adult life is a slow process, requiring all three men to conquer their fears.  Each chapter defines a character's personality, showcasing their background as well as insecurities. Also featured is the almost sweet interaction between characters, along with the adjustments necessary to comfort each other.  Thom and Dru have lived together for two years; however they limit their normal show of affection for each other in front of Skye, who fears human contact.  The overall distressing, as well as particularly heartwarming, saga is an enjoyable romance with a hint of intimacy and a dash humor.  Tia Fielding's By Any Other Name storyline centers on the gentle aspects of healing with love.
2799927
Alan Cohen has the almost god-like ability to see good in even the most trying of situations. He may have in fact perfected the art of Wabi Sabi living as described in a book by Taro Gold of the same name. I have never ceased to be amazed at how Alan Cohen can see good in even the most devastating emotional situations. He is truly a survivor and life can rarely throw him a challenge he can't handle.

If you are going through a divorce, considering a divorce (especially if you have children), are in the middle of a breakup or even just ending a relationship with your significant other, then this book may be a helpful guide leading you towards greater happiness instead of unending self-defeating patterns.

I love finding quotes in Alan's books and the quote that stood out was: "Every problem comes to you with a gift in its hands." ~Richard Bach

While it is almost impossible to see the good in a breakup if you want to stay in a relationship, there is something to be said for a gain in the area of self-esteem if you find yourself free to look for someone who will treat you with more respect.

The list of common ways we distract ourselves from emotional pain made sense to me. They are probably the same ways a person could escape from depression or dealing with life's everyday problems. Denial, blaming, guilt and addictions are discussed briefly and there are real-life examples throughout this amazing book.

First, you realize you do have the power to love, even if you don't have the power to maintain the relationship that is dissolving. To love a person who has rejected the very core of yourself is probably the most difficult thing you will ever have to do besides deal with the death of a person you love. Staying friends with your ex? How? Apparently it is possible and can be accomplished by allowing yourself to move through the various stages as you move out of a deeply involved lover relationship and turn a lover into a friend.

Imagine an author who is able to find the opportunities gained in a situation where your heart has been broken. In this discussion of "staying friends with your ex," Alan Cohen also gives lists of the wrong reasons couples get together in the first place. This could be helpful as you seek a different partner. He delves into post-breakup scenarios, meaningful breakup rituals, communication issues, transitional relationships and how to communicate through a brick wall.

I do have to make one comment in regards to knowing when it is time to not maintain a friendship. When the person is abusive, it might just be time to end the relationship and find the love and support you crave in a more nurturing environment. Often, God will send angels to lead you from a bad situation to a place of healing. By being patient in the cycles of resting and renewal, we can then grow in spiritual ways we never imagined to be possible. Chapter 9, Good-Bye for Good is a chapter that could bring healing instead of discord.

I think this is possibly the most helpful relationship book Alan Cohen has ever written, although I still have a few more books to read. The section on the Power of Thought is an excellent way to send love to those who are far away. I found page 159 to be especially healing and that one page is worth the price of the book.

~The Rebecca Review
4910668
This book is well written and quite an emotional read at times. If you have been or are in a relationship, it will help you understand why problems feel so serious to you and the deeper feelings underneath that keep couples wanting each other and at the same time driving each other apart.

But the most valuable thing you will get from the book is a set of love relationship tools that will help you have a long term relationship that stays full of passion, love and eroticism.

This book proves that long term relationships do NOT automatically become dulled. You can stop that with the guidance in this book and working as a couple on it
70656
A deal was struck and reluctantly Kelsey agrees to friends with benefits.  Shaun can't give her any more. He can't give up his secrets and Kelsey may not be able to live with her unreturned love. It's a very generous benefits "package," but one Kelsey is oh so eager to renegotiate.

I read the first in this series, Learning to Live Again, back in late November 2014 and have since been anxiously awaiting the release of To Love Again.  Dori Lavelle does a fantastic job bringing us into the turmoil of their lives.  Kelsey's supportive girlfriend Maeve and Shaun's brother are there to lean on as the two cope with grief apart from each other instead of facing it together.  One can only hope Shaun and Kelsey will finally realize that learning to love again and sharing all of themselves, is the key to making them whole and healthy.
54240
I'm an internet dating consultant, and I've studied and read nearly everything there is on the subject.  Although I fancy myself as a masculine role model, I have to say this book had me getting misty and laughing out loud at the same time.  I was getting some awfully strange looks on the plane as I was reading it but I couldn't help myself.  I felt like Linda Richman (Mike Myers on SNL) when she would say, "I'm so verklempt - Talk amongst yourselves!"

When I purchased the book, I thought I was going to get a lesson in x and o's - and discovered it was more of XOX's.  It was truly a hilarious and touching love story while at the same time still incorporating some excellent strategies to discover a best friend and lover online.  I've definitely added some wisdom and insight into my future training and consulting.

You know you're really into a book when you find yourself mimicking the faces being described in the book.  If only I could have captured the faces of those I caught looking at me.  By the time I finished the book, I felt like Amy was my friend and I couldn't wait to meet Brian, Hillary and the rest of the family.  I don't have to meet Todd because he sounds just like me.

This book rivals Sleepless in Seattle as a romantic comedy, and I can't wait to see it on the big screen.  It's an amazing love story with an incredible lesson on internet dating.  If you want to be immensely entertained and equally educated at the same time - You've got to read this book.

Leonardo Amorado
The Baby Boomer Companionator
925696
Everything is going sixteen-year-old Jennifer's way. Her boyfriend Max Brown is a handsome, witty senior who works with her on the school newspaper, and she is on track to be a future journalist. She has two great best friends who are intensely loyal to her. Her parents are divorced because her father is gay, but she and her mother get along well, and her father and his significant other are sensitive, kind and loving toward her. But then, tragedy strikes. Seemingly out of the blue, Max dumps her. Jennifer is heart broken. She can do nothing but sob on any available shoulder until she begins to follow the advice of a book her grandmother gives her called The Breakup Bible by Dr. Emory Emerson.

Though it is obvious to Jennifer's 13-year-old brother--and will be to most readers--that Max has dumped Jennifer because she won't "go all the way," this is not obvious to Jennifer, her girlfriends, her mother, her grandmother, or even her father. Maybe the author was trying to keep her novel "clean" by avoiding sex (other than multiple make-out sessions between Jennifer and Max before the breakup), but it did seem a bit odd to me personally that this essential element of the breakup is left entirely unexplored. Jennifer spends a huge amount of time in this story wondering why Max dumped her, and without learning, or admitting, his true motivation, her intense need to know, "Why did this happen?" could never fully be answered.

I really enjoyed the subcharacters in this book a lot. None of the conflict comes from terrible family relationships or disloyal girlfriends, which is a nice change in YA. The story is about exactly what the title states--Jennifer's struggle to overcome her broken heart. However, there is also a very interesting subplot about Jennifer learning to take her desire to have a career as a journalist much more seriously once she isn't living an existence dedicated to feeding Max's ego.

I read this as a Kindle edition. It is well-formatted and well-edited and, therefore, easy to read.

I rate this book as follows:

Heroine: 4 stars
Subcharacters: 4 stars
Writing: 4
Chick-Lit Plot: 4
Coming-of-Age Plot: 4
Overall: 4