| Title | : | Suddenly Us |
| Author | : | |
| Rating | : | |
| ISBN | : | - |
| Language | : | English |
| Format Type | : | Kindle Edition |
| Number of Pages | : | - |
Love. Who needs that? Who would want that? Who hasn't had their heart split in two, because they were never their first option, and damn sure their second. I have. But I stayed. Why did I stay? It was love. I wanted to finally feel that I was wanted. It didn't matter if he thought I was worthless. It didn't matter if he degraded me, because he felt like it. Any love is better than no love...right?
Hawkins
Every day, I'm haunted and tormented. When, I look in the mirror I see a failure. A failure that let people that needed me down. I worry that it will happen again. If it happens to the people I care about the most, I don't think I could live with myself. Can I put my torturous past behind me and start to enjoy life? Especially now that I have a reason to live it?
Warning: Certain Scenes may cause a Trigger, or make you uncomfortable. If it does, then I did my job. You've been warned.
Suddenly Us Reviews
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Suddenly Us was about Gwen feeling unworthy and insecure. Gwen was victimized by her own family. Her mother berated her for her appearance and made her feel unwanted. Then she met Blake who made her feel wanted until he began to abuse her. Gwen began to believe she was worthless and unattractive until Hawkins proved otherwise. Hawkins protected Gwen and made her feel cherished.
Hawkins worked security detail for Grayson. Hawkins was always on alert and thinking about Gwen's safety. Hawkins was an alpha-male character who was protective of Gwen. He went above and beyond the call of security duty to keep her safe. Hawkins was assigned security detail to watch and protect Emmalin but he had eyes on Gwen.
Grayson was dating Emmalin. Emmalin was Gwen's friend. Emmalin was from the Incapable series. She was hiding trying to blend in because she did not want to be found. This part of the story still seemed unfinished.
Story was told in alternating points of view between Hawkins and Gwen. Gwen's character showed many examples of abuse at the hands of Blake. A few examples were given of her mother harassing her with demeaning and humiliating comments. Gwen had been conditioned to believe she was not welcomed by her mother and Blake's family. The author did a good job of illustrating Gwen's abuse.
At times, I felt the author built one character up while tearing down others. I was not a fan of Hawkins methods to ease Gwen of her insecurities. I felt he was too demanding and aggressive. His demands came across as forceful. I would have preferred words of encouragement. I suppose his behavior was par for the course given he was an alpha-male and they tend to use action instead of words to illustrate their feelings.
Gwen's character was confused about her feelings. She did not trust easily and Hawkins had to work hard to convince her. As an alpha-male Hawkins convinced with his body in the form of sex. The sex was graphic and quite frequent.
I felt Hawkins character was a hypocrite using vindictive cruel words against his ex-wife Rebecca especially since Gwen herself was the victim of cruel words. Hawkins also bullied men who showed any interest in Gwen threatening them with physical violence especially after Gwen was abused by Blake. I felt Gwen traded one bully for another.
I liked the comfort, protection, and attention Hawkins provided towards Gwen. He was a genuine loving guy. I liked that he was not afraid of commitment. I liked that he was ex-military and cared about the safety of women and children.
I did not like how Hawkins used sex to prove his attraction to Gwen. I was not that crazy about the way the author transitioned the story. It was a lot to take in with having not read any of the prior books in the Incapable series. The minor characters added to the story yet I was unfamiliar with their background having not read the other books. Some of the storylines got cut short like the wedding and the military assignment. They had all this build up and then it dwindled down.
I liked how Gwen was confident enough to address awkward situations. If she had a concern she confronted the issue head-on. -
Cover Reveal with #Giveaway have been posted on my blog, you can see it here:
https://nadineisobsessedwithbooks.blo... -
Suddenly Us is written by Marie Skye. This is my first read bu this Author. Marie Skye did a great job on this book. The story is well written. This book is filled with emotions. Gwen felt worthless, everyone she knows belittled her. Gwen's life has been filled with nasty, hateful remarks about her weight, clothes, really about everything. Gwen has been put down her whole life. But then one day Gwen meets Blake, he makes her feel wanted, but it wasn't real. Because soon after Blake starts to abuse her Gwen. He is just like the rest of them. Using her and destroying the little hope she has. But Gwen still stays with him. Gwen just gives up all hope, until she meets Hawkins. Hawkins makes her feel something, she's never felt before. Hawkins makes her feel loved, wanted, and beautiful. Hawkins protects Gwen. Hawkins works security for Grayson. He was an ex military. Hawkins would watch out for Gwen, he was very protective of her. Hawkins is a hard man, but he has a soft spot for Gwen. Hawkins fell for Gwen the moment, he laid eyes on her. Hawkins make Gwen feel safe, special and loved. Gwen needed someone like Hawkins in her life. She deserves to have happiness, love, and peace. Hawkins is what she needed. Hawkins and Gwen are perfect together. Their chemistry is sexy. Hawkins and Gwen are great together. This is a great story. I really enjoyed it. I recommend reading this story. Thank you, Marie Skye. Great work :)
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Wow!
Suddenly Us was a heart gripping read that had me hooked from the very beginning. This is the story of Hawkins and Gwen. Both have pasts that they are haunted by. Will they have what it takes to heal each other. I won't dive into the storyline in fear of spoiling the book for readers. Marie has done an amazing job telling their stories and I could not put it down. It's a story of love, overcoming horrible pasts, trust, and learning to move forward. This is a standalone and a must read!!! -
Suddenly Us by Marie Skye Rated 5 stars
Talk about starting off with a bang! My jaw is literally on the floor right now. If this is just the beginning of this book I can only imagine what the rest will hold for me. Gwens online date is quite the creep! Thank goodness Hawkins came to the rescue! Then later when Grayson is looking for security detail for the girls night out and Hawkins rejects a guy for Gwen saying he is a criminal because he has parking tickets. Ha ha ha....he is in so much trouble! This is a great start to the book. It pulled me in with the shock moment which went to sympathy for the girl then a hot guy rescue!
I loved reading this book! It is my first book by Marie Skye and it will not be the last. This book was suspenseful, had head-shaking humor and let's not forget heart swelling love. There each had some personal issues to deal with and they were dealt with in this story. I don't want to give much away :-) it really made me FEEL for each of their plights. Having never experienced either I felt like I could understand each issue with the way it was written. I loved all the characters in the book even though sometimes I felt like I was missing something. It does make me want to ready about Grayson and Emmalin's story. So that will be next on the agenda.
Hawkins is one scary guy. Not sure I would want to meet him on the dark somewhere unless he was on my side. He is a alpha guy who protects all that he cares about no matter what. I loved the reception he got when he visited his family. It made my heart swell. On the flip side I felt sorry for him with his previous marriage....he deserves more than her! Hopefully he can get Gwen to comply and she will be his.
Gwen seems very unsure of herself. I know she was in a bad relationship but she is lucky Hawkins didn't give up on her. If only everyone could have their own Knight in shining armor :-) named Hawkins.
They each gave all they have to other people that didn't care about them. What do they have left and is it enough for each other?
So many favorite moments in this story and the ending couldn't have been better!
Favorite line
I need you to say "yes" to the next question
Would you read this book? -
Suddenly Us by Marie Skye
5 ‘but wish it could be more’ stars!!!!
Suddenly Us is a fantastic, emotional yet incredibly steamy novel by Marie Skye. This book could be read as a standalone novel but does feature the characters from her amazing Incapable series. That series remains one of my favourites ever so I could not wait to read this authors new book and it was more than worth the wait! It is beyond doubt one of my best reads so far this year!
The book does feature some pretty intense scenes that may be a trigger for some readers but there is one thing about this author is that she does an amazing job in writing about these difficult things.
I loved Gwen! I thought that she was so strong and brave considering everything she put up with in her life even if she didn’t think that she was. She got up every day and tried to make the most of her life. I liked Gwen when she appeared in the other books so it was nice that she got her own story so we could find out more about her. I loved her character development over the story and the author did a great job in bringing out such emotions in me as a reader when it came to Gwen. She went through some pretty emotional scenes and I could feel every emotion she did.
Next we get to think about Hawkins – O-M-G!! He was so mysterious in the other books, just Grayson’s security but my did he come into his own in this story! Talk about sexy!! I devoured his POV chapters with everything I had – he was amazing! Maybe a little unorthodox in the way he dealt with any men who came into Gwen’s path but my gosh was he super protective of her! I could forgive him the over bearing ways because the things he came out with were definitely panty-melting! I loved Grayson until Hawkins came along – now I don’t know who I want more!! I loved how he tried so hard to build up Gwen’s confidence when it has so badly been beaten down in her previous relationship. He had a very romantic side to him but also one fantastic dominating side!
Suddenly Us is just an absolutely amazing book and I definitely urge you to read it – if you haven’t read Marie Skye’s previous series then you should definitely read them too! All of her books make for some pretty captivating reading – I cannot wait for whatever she comes up with next – I know it will be just as amazing as these ones are! -
Suddenly Us- Marie Skye
5 Stars Review
Suddenly us was a fantastic book! The characters were beyond relatable and I loved the story line. It was funny and I found it incredibly captivating. The story is told in both the main characters POV’s, it’s told in the present tense but there are moments in the past as well. Marie Skye is an incredibly talented author and she made it very easy to fall into her world.
I absolutely loved Gwen, I really related to her, which made reading the story so easy. She’s an incredibly sweet young woman who has never been properly loved, by her parents or by her ex-boyfriend Blake. Due to her lack of love she often feels she isn’t good enough, nor does she think she’s attractive enough. Then in comes Hawkins (I mean the name alone makes you picture an incredibly sexy and strong man). His name couldn’t be a better fit, he’s a mans man, possessive (in a good way), funny, and very assertive. He’s an ex military man with a strong need to protect the ones he loves.
Though he definitely has had his share of terrible relationships. He gave everything he had to the woman he loved; only to be betrayed by her when he needed her most. He’s not one to let his walls down but he can’t seem to help himself when it comes to Gwen. Gwen is everything that Hawkins needed, and vice versa. Gwen deserves to be loved by a man like Hawkins. She deserves the all consuming, soul mate type of love and he’s definitely the man for that.
I absolutely loved the relationship Gwen and Hawkins had. After experiencing some of the same issues Gwen had I loved reading her road to discovering her true self worth. I can honestly say I was incredibly intrigued by the little snippets of information on Grayson and Emmalin’s story. I definitely plan on reading their story in the Incapable series. Suddenly Us was a beautiful story and I would definitely recommend it to anyone looking for his or her next romance read. -
Suddenly Us
By: Marie Skye
5 out of 5 stars
The story Suddenly Us by Marie Skye is a mystery/suspense romance book. This is the love story of Gwen and Hawkins. Two souls that are haunted by the past. Looking for true love and their soul mate. Will they find what they are looking for in each other’s arms? There are some books that just leave an imprint on your heart and this story is one of them. If I could I would rate it far higher than a 5. This story had me from the very beginning and I couldn’t stop until I had read the ending page. Not only is the story amazing, so are the characters of Gwen and Hawkins. Gwen is a woman who has self-doubts about herself. She has been hurt and doesn’t believe that any man can look past how she looks to see what is really inside. Her friends try to reassure her of her beauty and that she is a person worthy of having true happiness. Then one night changes everything. Gwen finds a connection beginning between her and Hawkins. Will she let him into her heart?
Hawkins is a man that is haunted by his past. His life fell apart because of a failed romance and then a failed mission. He then finds that he has a connection with Gwen and would protect her at all costs. Hawkins is a man that takes his current work very seriously. Security is what he does and prides himself on making sure that when he is on the job his attention is fully focused on the task at hand. He is finding this harder and harder as his feelings for Gwen grows. His protectiveness comes out in full force. Can Hawkins convince Gwen that she is worthy of his love and that she is the one that has stolen his heart?
I have read previous books by the author and when I found out that she wrote this new one I just had to read it. Her characters come alive and are unforgettable. The story will have you rooting for Gwen and Hawkins to get their HEA. If you’re looking for a story that will leave you breathless, this is the one. This book does deal with sensitive subjects and has adult situations. It would be recommended for those 18 years of age or older. -
Rating: 4.5 out 5 stars
Recommend: YES! DOUBLE YES!
Standalone book, but we do see some of our favorite characters from previous books.
Triggers: There is an attack in a dark alley that could possibly trigger someone.
Release date: 4/11/2017
Read time: 1 day
Received ARC in exchange for an honest review
This is where I tell you that you need to walk away from this review if you do not want this book spoiled for you. But, before you close out of it, please do me a favor and buy this. I promise, it will entertain you, pull at your heart strings and have you cursing out the characters.
So, the plot of this story, right? Hmm..where do I start? Boy meets girl, girl and boy both chase each other away and then finally find their happy ending together. But there is so much more than that. I know, it is a typical plot and a little rushed for my liking (which is why I gave it 4.5 out of 5 stars), but for what it is worth, the layers and complexity of the characters did it for me. And Marie Skye is climbing up to be a top 5 favorite author. Yes, that is pretty big, I know. And it kind of sounds weird that I gave this book a 4.5 and it is sealing her standing on my list, right? Well, I'm not to be understood.
I just wanted a little more. What that is? I am not too sure. It took me a day to read it. So, that means I didn't want to put it down. (And NOT because my review was due!) I actually finished last night, but was too tired to type this out and needed a moment to process. Enough about me.
My new hashtag for this book is #canihaveaHawkinsplease
Oh, layers...I love when authors write more about minor characters from other books (but only when I have read those books ha!). And I am getting the weird idea that we will see more of these folks. -
Suddenly Us by Marie Skye – 4 stars
This book may contain triggers of domestic abuse.
“When a person breaks your heart, it could take years to heal…” Marie Skye
Suddenly Us is the story of Gwen and Hawkins. This is the first Marie Skye book I’ve read and it appears that these two characters are from the Incapable trilogy. I was able to navigate the book pretty well and because there was never any background supplied for the cross over characters I had to assume who/what they are.
This is the classic story of “Family of Origin” vs. “Family of Choice”. Gwen and Hawkins both have some heavy stuff in their past and both question whether they deserve goodness in their life. From the first moment they meet, sparks fly. He is the classic hard core, alpha male and at times I found his demands to be a bit over the top, especially when he suspected correctly about Gwen’s past. Gwen has a hard time trusting and believing people when they tell her she is good and she is beautiful because of the verbal abuse she’s endured her whole life. I liked that the story was told in dual points of view. It allowed the reader to understand what each character was going through. I’m glad that Gwen was built up by her “family of choice”. I believe everyone should have friends who love them unconditionally like hers did.
I imagine the topics in this story are difficult to write. The way Ms. Skye handled the aftermath of both Gwen and Hawk’s past was done in such a way that they were able to hold their heads high and move on in life.
I’m absolutely going back to read the Incapable Trilogy because now I’m so curious to find out about Grayson & Emmalin and Chase & Isabella – I’m sure thier stories are fantastic also. -
Suddenly Us is absolutely beautiful novel I was hooked right from the very start and was unable to put the book down until I reached the very end it was that brilliant. This novel tells the story about Gwen and Hawkins and I tell you its not all smooth sailing for them. Gwen is a amazing heroine she has been and is still going through a really horrible time but she never let it defeat her she keeps fighting even at her lowest points. Gwen who has been really hurt recently by her sleezeball of ex Blake who verbally and physically abused her for years but she always took it never told anyway because she loved him and thought he loved her back but he was ashamed of her and always made her feel she weren't good enough but she still kept fighting for it until he completely ripped her heart out and the awful thing is just when she turns her life around and becomes happy he manages to make her life hell all over again. Hawkins well he's this sexy protective alpha who will have you panting he's that hot ladies.. Hawkin has a dark past and continues to battle through the torment of his past daily. He will do everything he can to protect Gwen but when his past because his present and he's able to fix the guilt he carries daily but he could end up losing everything? I loved Gwen's and Hawkins's story it was full of so many emotions it had me at the edge of my seat throughout with the drama and obstacles getting in there way it defiantly is a page turner so be prepared to get no sleep while reading this novel!! I would absolutely one hundred percent recommend this read you will defiantly not be disappointed!!!
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***Warning: this books contains scenes that some people may find upsetting or distressing***
Gwen
Love. Who needs that? Who would want that? Who hasn't had their heart split in two, because they were never their first option, and damn sure their second. I have. But I stayed. Why did I stay? It was love. I wanted to finally feel that I was wanted. It didn't matter if he thought I was worthless. It didn't matter if he degraded me, because he felt like it. Any love is better than no love...right?
Hawkins
Every day, I'm haunted and tormented. When, I look in the mirror I see a failure. A failure that let people that needed me down. I worry that it will happen again. If it happens to the people I care about the most, I don't think I could live with myself. Can I put my torturous past behind me and start to enjoy life? Especially now that I have a reason to live it?
This book was intense. I don’t think there is any other word for it. The author handled all the sensitive issues with the greatest care. It is the first book I have read by this author but I will definitely be reading more of hers again. She creates the characters lives on the pages and makes then so realistic. -
התחיל טוב, סוחף, בלי יוצר מידי בולשיט ותיאורים מתפזרים.
קיבלתי את הרושם שמדובר בבחורה חסרת בטחון שכל החיים ״ירדו״ עליה ושיש צ’ה בעיה עם הדימוי העצמי שלה. לרגע חשבתי שיש כאן עומק, אולי הספר הזה נועד להשפיע על הקוראות לקבל את עצמן כמו שהן? אולי יש לו מסר חשוב?
מהר מאוד הבחורה שהיתה במידה 14 והרעיבה את עצמה היא עכשיו במידה 10. ״תראי איזו יפה את״
אני לא בטוחה שהסופרת התכוונה לתת מסר לפה או לשם, אך זה הוביל בעיניי למסר הלא נכון..
היא מספרת על זוגיות של חמש שנים של התעללות, לי באופן אישי היה מאוד מאוד קשה לקרוא על זה. על האופן בו הגבר חתך את הקשר ואיך הוא דיבר אליה, ככה באמצע החיים. אבל הסופרת הזהירה מראש שיש דברים קשים..
מה שאותי עצבן מאוד וגרם לי לעזוב את הספר היה שברגע אחד הדמויות הראשיות נפלו לזוגיות, היה מעבר חד לקשר. והכל פתאום התחיל להראות עמו עוד ספר סאדו מאזו, עוד גבר דומיננטי מידי ששולט באישה.
אין לי בעיה על הספרים האלו, אבל זה נראה לי לא קשור בכלל לספר.
דירגתי 3 כי הכתיבה טובה, כי זה לא ספר שכל אחד יפסול. אני פשוט מרגישה קצת מרומה כי חשבתי שזה ילך לכיוון אחר, מקורי עם מסר חשוב שיתן לדמות הראשית מקום לביטוי ולהעצמה עצמית ולא עוד דומיננטיות ״את שלי ותעשי על מה שאני אומר״
אוסיף ואומר, שעוד משהו שלא הגיוני בעיניי זה שהוא תופס אותה בדייט עם גבר אחר וסולח לה? זה מחרמן אותו שהיא יוצאת עם מישהו אחר כשהם בדיוק מתחילים משהו? -
💝FREE on Amazon today (6/9/2018)!💝
Blurb:
This story is based on actual events. As the reader, it's up to you to determine what is fact, and what is fabricated, for it will never be revealed, to protect those involved. You just may be surprised.
Gwen
Love. Who needs that? Who would want that? Who hasn't had their heart split in two, because they were never their first option, and damn sure their second. I have. But I stayed. Why did I stay? It was love. I wanted to finally feel that I was wanted. It didn't matter if he thought I was worthless. It didn't matter if he degraded me, because he felt like it. Any love is better than no love...right?
Hawkins
Every day, I'm haunted and tormented. When, I look in the mirror I see a failure. A failure that let people that needed me down. I worry that it will happen again. If it happens to the people I care about the most, I don't think I could live with myself. Can I put my torturous past behind me and start to enjoy life? Especially now that I have a reason to live it?
Warning: Certain Scenes may cause a Trigger, or make you uncomfortable. If it does, then I did my job. You've been warned. -
WOW!!! I loved this book so much. Hawkins is the PERFECT gentleman and I think that Grayson has taught him a lot on how to handle a woman. Hawkins was just amazing and HOT as can be. He had me swooning over him. Hawkins works for Grayson and his number one job is to protect Emmalin. Grayson lost her once and it was Hawkins job to make sure it never happened again. I loved how sweet and caring he could be and when he wanted something he did not let anything stop him from getting it. He has his eyes and heart set on one woman and he would be the perfect man for her.
Gwen is Emmalin’s best friend and they are as close as sisters would be. Gwen thinks that she is fat and not attractive at all which is far from the truth and Emmalin tries to make her see that all the time. She was in an abusive relationship and Blake made her feel like she had a horrible body. Gwen is a beautiful woman with some amazing curves and she just needs to find the right man to appreciate her and take care of her the way she truly deserves.
This book is just so well written as always with one of Marie’s books. She has a knack for making the characters come to life on the pages. I was so engrossed in the book that I felt like I was there watching the characters. Her heroes are the perfect men in my eyes and I can’t ever get enough of them. I look forward to more of the series and love hearing what the other characters are up to. Thanks for a fabulous book Marie. -
Gwen has been told all her life that she was never good enough and as result spent five years in a relationship were she wasn’t treated well because she thought she deserved no better. She would still be with him if he hadn’t ended it and now she has given up on having love in her life. Hawkins has never fully recovered from his military service and his last failed mission and he doesn’t believe that anyone can depend on him. Hawkins works for Grayson and he is tasked with protecting Gwen’s best friend Emmalin however the pull that Hawkins feels for Gwen makes him want to protect her as well. Will Hawkins be able to show Gwen that she is worthy of love and will Gwen be able to show Hawkins that he is an honorable man and he is not to blame for the past? Both of these characters are strong and resilient but I loved how together they made each other stronger. The combination of suspense, characters you will bond to and a chemistry that is second to none makes this a book you won’t be able to put down. I voluntarily reviewed an advance reader copy of this book.
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Gwen has never felt love not really except maybe her friends but her mother has always put her down and when her boyfriend of five years told her she was worthless and he was done. What she found out later was he had been cheating on her for a while but she is ok she has sworn off men for now.
Hawkins is doing guard duty for Grayson and Emmalin but the only one he seems to guard is Gwen but Gwen is a tough nut to crack she thinks no one would want to be with her because she is fat and useless. Just as Hawkins begins to make some headway with her something or someone causes them to go backward. My heart was breaking for not only Gwen but Hawkins too but it was nice to see that their friends would always be there for them. Really sweet story with a little bit of drama but a really good read.
I requested this book for free from the author and I have chosen to review it -
I loved this book so much. This was my first read from this author, and I will definitely be looking up her other books. Hawkins is the kind of man any girl would be happy to call her own. Gwen is battling her own demons and Hawkins is just the person to help her through them. This book touches on a topic that many women go through and is hard to deal with. A great read!
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DNF 15%
I didn't finish reading this book because I was far too confused. I first thought the author decided to change the character's name from Emmalyn to Gwen, but now I realize those are separate characters which just confuses me even more. -
Great 5 star read
Gwen went through so much and I value a man like Hawkins he had his secrets and crosses to bare but not once did his love faulted for that woman .I ugly cried at a point in this book ..and then i stood to say hell yea cause if want my man to protect me the same way..amazing and appreciated coming from someone who has been there.... there is never a reason to make excuses for that. Loved it -
Suddenly Us by Marie Skye a sublime five Star read. This is a stand-alone story, but we have met a lot of the characters in the Incapable series, Gwen comes into her own in this book, she faces things that many people with recognise and it may cause trigger issues for some people. But as the author says, if it makes you uncomfortable she did her job right, and she deserves a medal for doing a job well done. You may be uncomfortable but its dealt with in such a great manner as always that you come out the other side feeling emotionally drained but full of overwhelming feelings.
Gwen gets dumped by a man who doesn’t deserve her, she gave him five years of her life that she won’t ever get back. Gwen was in love with Blake Conrad and would have been happily married to him, if he didn’t decide to cheat on her and then break up with her, then plan on getting married and have a child with someone else so soon after they broke up. All Gwen wants is to be loved and wanted, she feels that even her own mother doesn’t want her. The only problem is Gwen has been happy with any type of love, as they are all the same, aren’t they?
Hawkins Kyle Michaelson is head of security for Greyson enterprises, he has his own tragic past and feels that he will never be good enough to love someone worthy, he has done things to people and seen things in war and life that no man should ever have to see and live through. Hawkins sees himself as a failure of a man personally and only sees himself as being able to do his job well as he is hyper focussed on his job. Will he ever see himself as being able to be someone who can be loved and love another person.
Marie Skye writes such amazing characters, they face such terrible challenges and you veer between wanting to shake them and wanting to cuddle them and make it all better. You need her books in your life. -
5 Stars
Suddenly Us is a phenomenal book written by Marie Skye. I fell in love with Ms. Skye’s work while reading the Incapable Series. Her books branded themselves on my heart and I became an insta-fan. I had been anticipating the release of this book for a while now and was really excited to finally have it in my hands. I never questioned if it would be any good- that’s a given. I am happy to report that this story is all that I could have hoped for, and more…… it’s delicious- completely addictive and tremendously entertaining.
Gwen made my heart ache for her. I wanted to storm the pages of the book and put a few people in their ‘places’. She had been conditioned for so long into believing that there was something wrong with her, that she was flawed and unacceptable. Her mother spent most of the time trying to control her appearance, diet, and life. Having such a low opinion of herself then left her vulnerable to being preyed on and used; and so Blake comes into her life and does exactly that. Again nothing she did was good enough, but Gwen settled because she was in love with him and was determined to make things work. She constantly made excuses for his bad behaviour, because she was so desperate to feel wanted and loved. Ultimately Blake betrays her. WOW, how am I not surprised that the douche-canoe could be even more contemptable than he already was!
Her experience has left her with absolutely zero self-worth; she is still reeling from her disastrous history with men but is determined to try to move on. She finds herself agreeing to a ‘date’ with a man she’s only spoken to over the internet. Needless to say, the evening ends badly and she walks out on the date, right into the path of a dangerously sexy man, who she vaguely recognises.
Hawkins Michaelson is head of security for Grayson Mandrake and he was introduced to us in the Incapable Series. He has had a difficult past and is dealing with feelings of failure, as well as being haunted by his experiences during his military career, and also since then. He is completely career focused and his life revolves around his job. Yes, he felt compelled to come to the defence of the beautiful woman- but he didn’t expect that act would be the first step in her capturing his heart. These two are perfect for each other and exactly what they need to begin to heal. Through the story, they will need to prove their mettle. Will Hawkins help Gwen to finally appreciate what a beautiful person she is, inside and out? Will Gwen’s presence be the remedy to the self-recrimination that has plagued Hawkins for so long? Can these two learn to trust again, put the past behind them and begin to ‘live’ again? What does the future hold for them?
This is such a panty-melting, oops- I meant to say heart-melting story.
I love how Ms. Skye is able to create such wonderful characters, who captured my heart and enticed me into their story. They are so well developed and believable, I really couldn’t help investing in them and their story. I accompanied them through their experiences, cheering them on; I was completely captivated by them. Hawkins was just so swoon-worthy. A true Alpha male, with a body made for sin. I love his dominate side, but he also has a beautiful romantic streak. I am a little torn because I had given my heart to Grayson in Ms. Skye’s Incapable Series- but I have decided to become polyamorous, because I really don’t want to have to choose between them. I loved watching Gwen develop and blossom through the course of the story. She is such a great person, who deserves every happiness. I loved seeing the cast from the Incapable Series make an appearance in this story as well. It was great to catch up with them and discover what has been happening in their lives. Oh, and the Steam-factor in the story is off-the-charts HOT!!!
I am now eagerly awaiting Ms. Skye’s next offering.
A Gold Medal Performance! Thank-you Ms. Skye! -
Suddenly Us by Marie Skye 5 Stars
This book brought out feelings in me that I thought were buried deep enough to never surface again. It rocked me to the core! Marie has a way of writing stories to get under your skin and this one didn't disappoint. The story of love after abuse was wonderfully written and so painstakingly believable. It had me laughing and crying along with the characters. A very well written book about how we perceive ourselves isn't always how others do. Beauty is in the eyes of the beholder. Until you can let go of your perception, you can't move on whether you want to or not. Love comes in all forms. If you believe that you can only be loved by someone who is constantly abusive and believe that is all you deserve, then you need to get your head straight. Once someone emotionally scars you, you start to believe those lies and can't distinguish fact from fiction. This is the only form of love Gwen knew until...
Gwen has always been the butt of everyone's joke. Her mom never sew her as good enough and made sure she knew it daily. Her dad never did anything to persuade her differently. She was always second to her younger sister who was perfect in her mother's eyes. Growing up, Gwen made the wrong choice about everything, according to her mother. She had to eat the salad because she had excess weight she needed to loose. She had to wear the dress because she looked frumpy in other clothes. She had to date this guy even though his social status above hers and he could do better. All Glen wanted was her mother's approval. She spent 5 years in a relationship with a guy who treated her like dirt. Even with him, Gwen couldn't do anything right. Her mother kept reminding her that one day he would wake up and realize Gwen was beneath him and he could do better. Gwen loved whole heartedly even if the people she chose to be around her made her feel unworthy. Gwen did everything to please everyone and it was never enough.
Until Hawkins. He was hot and totally out of her league. She didn't deserve to even look at him the way she did. And why does he even give her the time of day? He looks at her like he is truly interested in what she has to say. The way he looked at her was very intimate and raw. Hawkins had his own problems to work through. PTSD and ghosts of what could have been make his nights seem even longer. He was not good enough for Gwen. He couldn't focus on what had to be done, but he knew he wanted her. She controlled his mind, body, and thoughts.
Could they leave their pasts behind them and start a romance or would the skeletons in their closets be too much for their relationship to even get off the ground? After secrets are revealed, will Gwen wake up and realize her self worth with his help? Would Hawkins past catch up to him and mold his future?
A must read novel with a hot alpha male and a woman who needs a push in the right direction to see who she really is. Get ready to cry and laugh though every page of this book. Marie has a gift of story telling and this is one you won't be able to put down once you start. -
This book is a spin-off of another series by Marie Skye, whose main characters function as side characters in this one.
Gwen is a young woman with a dysfunctionel relationship with her family, but a very tight bond with her friends. She's single after five years in a bad relationship and now she is taking a step forward and going on a date. The date however turns out to be horrible and within the first five minutes of seating Gwen is outraged with her date and leaves.
Enter Hawkins to the rescue!
Hawkins is this body guard kind of fellow, who works for Gwen's friend's boyfriend. He swoops in to straighten out this rude date of Gwen's and thus the two of them begin to really know each other. Hawkins' a sweet man with quite the bagage, suffering from PTSD and feeling overprotective of Gwen. He quickly learns that he feels passionate about her. They develop a kind of relationhip, where Hawkins brusquely forces Gwen to open up, while also trying to make her feel beautiful and love herself, but with both of them carrying a lot of bagage into the relationship, they are doomed for a hard ride.
I really wanted to like this book! I just didn't. This doesn't make it a bad book, and I do understand why some people like it. I am all for the overprotective yet hurting man falling for a woman, but not being able to convey his feelings for her without sounding bossy - trope. I love that! I do not like a violent man though! And I think that Hawkins' brusque behaviour towards every other man who tries to get Gwen's attention drowned my excitement a little. With Gwen's background I also found it very hard to think of her and Hawkins' relationship as something sweet I wanted to root for, since he was always so bossy with her, which I think is something she most definitly did not need - despite all of Hawkins good intentions.
I could easily feel that there were background stories to the minor characters that I didn't know about, but I did not at any time feel I needed to know that story in order to get this one.
Here Skye has been very good at explaining the important parts.
All in all, this was a slightly disappointing read, though mostly due to personal preferences. -
Suddenly Us
By Marie Skye
5 Star Review
Suddenly Us by Marie Skye is a five star story and full emotion. I thoroughly enjoy a book that really makes you feel for the characters and also identify with the journey they are on.
Gwen has been through a lot in her life and has never felt loved. Her parents and her ex-boyfriend Blake made her feel very worthless and she doesn’t believe she deserves love in her life. She has doubts about how she looks and believes her appearance is her downfall. She believes the with the way she looks that any man in their right mind wouldn’t even take a chance on her. Her friends try to convince her how special she is and that the right man will truly see her.
Hawkins is your typical alpha ex-military man; he protects the people who are important to him. But, his life fell apart, when he was hurt by a woman he thought he loved. Then a failed mission continues to haunt him, he takes his work very serious and he prides himself on his focus to his jobs.
Hawkins and Gwen meet and the connection are strong for the both of them. Gwen is unsure of herself but Hawkins is drawn to her and is finding it hard to keep his feelings in check. The more Gwen gets him to trust her and open up the more his protectiveness grows. What happens when two people who have been burned by love find the one person who makes them feel? Will Gwen believe she is truly worthy of love?
This story pulled at me, I felt for Gwen but she was still very likeable. I always wanted an alpha man in my life to make me feel important and protective. The fact that the author made me feel this much for both these characters truly sets the story beyond 5 stars. -
Suddenly Us by Marie Skye is a pulse pounding romance that I gave 5 stars! From the very first description-This story is based on actual events. As the reader, it's up to you to determine what is fact, and what is fabricated, for it will never be revealed, to protect those involved-it HAD me. Marie Skye knows how to weave a tale of intrigue and lust. This novel is written in alternating first person POVs by the two main characters: Gwen and Hawkins.
Gwen has been hurt, and she lives in a world of insecurity and doubt. Not even her friends are successful at convincing her of her worth, her beauty. With little trust in men, she meets Hawkins. The attraction is scintillating. He truly seems to value her, is it too good to be real? Hawkins is far from perfect, his past is riddled with regret. He fears failure in all aspects of his life. There is an instant connection to Gwen, and he will do anything to convince her it’s real. Will she let her walls crumble to allow love in? Can he succeed in gaining her trust and love? They will both need to overcome their pasts in order to have a future.
Loved this story! These two amazing characters are broken, yet willing to fight to become whole. You will find yourself cheering for these two, and you will feel the desperation for love that they have. The story is beautifully written, highly detailed, and fast paced. Such a realistic struggle with insecurity, and finding one’s confidence again! And the heat, oh the heat! So intense and real! You will devour this book, and crave more from this talented author! -
This is the first book I have read by Marie Skye and I look forward to reading more. Suddenly Us keep me interested through the entire book, there was drama, action and romance that keep reading till the end.
Gwen has been made to feel fat and undeserving her entire life from both her mother and her ex Blake. Even after Blake broke up her and moved on she continued to have very low self-esteem from years of being told nobody would want her. Blake wouldn’t even include her in his family holidays and outings. Gwen would share with her mother the mean things Blake would say and do and her mother would tell her someone like her is lucky to have him.
Hawkins feels like he is a failure. He has a past failed marriage and failed his men in a mission overseas. Hawkins is working very hard not to fail as a bodyguard and has been warned by his boss that he better not fail. Hawkins suffers from PTSD and has nightmares every night about the mission that failed and letting his men down.
Hawkins see’s that Gwen has a low image of herself and goes out of his way to tell how beautiful and worthy she is. Hawkins and Gwen quickly realize their feelings for eachother, they are solemates. When Gwen is in his arms he doesn’t have the nightmares. Hawkins promises to always be there to take care and protect Gwen, but when called away to complete the mission he failed years ago Gwen is attacked. Hawkins feels as though he has failed Gwen.
This story is Hawkins and Gwen’s story of learning to love themselves and eachother. I loved this book. -
Suddenly Us by Marie Skye is the first book I have read by the author and I am telling you, this experience went off with a bang in the first chapter! It set the bar up high and it was great to see that she kept delivering throughout the story.
Suddenly Us is a story of Gwen and Hawkins. Gwen has been belittled all her life and has literally no self-esteem left, her family has torn her down instead of building her up and the ex she dedicated five years for, let’s not even go there! Hawkins has removed himself from his loving family and is tortured by his past. The question is, do they manage to overcome their baggage and eventually find a way to each other.
It was a rollercoaster journey and I cried and I laughed and I rolled my eyes. I could see that once again, lack of communication will bring along issues that at times might have very severe consequences. Also, secrets never remain secrets and it is the ones closest to you that hurt you most.
I loved how Marie was telling the story from both Gwen and Hawkins’ point of view, it gave us deeper insight into why they were behaving the way they were … There were quite a few great lines in the book and I want to finish with this one: “I need you to say ‘yes’ to the next question.” Can you guess what this question is and would you not want to read the book to find out how they got to it! -
This read is a spin-off of the Incapable series, Hawkins who is head of security for Grayson and Gwen who is Emmalin's friend. I feel like you should read that series first just due to some scenes that give away what has been going on in the Incapable series with Emmalin and Grayson. These two meet due to Emmalin and always having security (Hawkins) and her refusing to give up her life, Gwen is around a lot.
Gwen reminds me of an abused puppy, she has always only heard about what is wrong with her, and what she needs to do, she has been emotionally abused her entire life and well on into her first relationship. She was doing anything to make him happy and lost herself in the process. Don't worry Sexy as sin Hawkins goona take care of his girl.
Hawkins is a swoon-worthy Alpha guy who refuses to let Gwen get down on herself and he treats and takes care of her as you could only dream any man would. Lots of secrets and twists from all the characters and final an ending I can get down with.
