Sunday, January 26, 2014

Kari's Review of Moving Forward (Timing is Everything Series) by Erika Ashby




There really isn’t a book like this one that I have read that I can think of at this moment!

Summary/Blurb: 

 Jesika Reynolds’ heart was left broken one year ago when her husband died, leaving her and her son alone in this world. Slowly, she started putting the pieces back together of her life. Knowing that she may never open herself up to love again. That was until the day Derek came into the picture.

Why does this gorgeous stranger seem to care so much, so suddenly?

Derek Jordan's charm drew her in with an instant connection, and familiarity that helps her feel at ease. Her heart is falling at his feet, but as their relationship grows, so does a secret from both of their pasts that neither saw coming. One by one, the threads slowly start to unravel.

Can their newly sought love stand up against the secrets that life is unlocking to their pasts? Or can they decide together that moving forward and forgetting the past is the only option for them to find true happiness?

What I loved:
 This was the first Erika Ashby book I had the pleasure of reading. The pacing of this book was exactly perfect for Derek and Jesika's story. Jesika was moving on and was not so depressed and out of sorts that she couldn't see opportunities for happiness before her. I loved the relationships throughout this book but especially the friendship and sense of family between Jesika and Mallory. Mallory is a secondary character but we learn so much about Mallory's ability to be loyal while Derek and Jesika fall in love. Seth another secondary character is also introduced and is Derek's brother.  Seth is the lead singer in their band and proves that rockers are playboys! We get to see the romantic side of both these men and a possible look into something deeper.  Derek and Seth have a good relationship and they help each other out.  
  I have a special place for boys in bands, but an even sweeter spot for firefighters! I love that our hero, Derek, is a man who is multi-faceted. He can play the drums in a melodic beat, but he can also save your ass when your house or car is on fire. Also, who wouldn't love a man who steps up and can love unconditionally despite the past. 

What I didn't love: 
  There isn't much I didn't love except for Holden's character, but not for the reasons you think.  He was secondary and was kind of an important player in the story. He seems like a nice guy and it would have been nice to see him get his ending too. But who knows there is still a second book and novella awaiting me.  Also, I love interactions and dialogue with kids when they appear in books because they say some of the funniest things. I would have liked more dialogue between the kids and adults especially Uncle Seth!! 

Overall:
 This book started a bit sad.  That sadness was quickly turned around and became a wonderful "Journey" of love and discovery.  This book shows us that maybe destiny and fate are actual things and we have to let them play out because it might just be what is best for us.  Jesika taught me that things aren't always what they seem, but that doesn't mean you have to dwell in the past and not move forward.  She also taught me that to feel alive, you have to be courageous enough to sidestep the odds and go for it!  Derek taught me that being persistent and having patience may just get you exactly what you want.  He also taught me that there are real men out there that will step up and love unconditionally.  This is definitely a book worth reading. 

Favorite Quotes:
“That’s exactly what I am telling you.  And right now, I’m feeling in need of the firefighter part of him because he just freaking lit my body on fire with his damn orgasmic drumming.” ~ Jesika

“I mean damn, I’ve been trying to have enough sex for the both of us but sheesh.  A girl can only handle so much dick.” ~ Mallory

“I will always protect you.  I will always put the safety of your heart above everything else.” ~ Derek


Sometimes you have to take a step back to move forward.” ~ Derek’s Tattoo

No comments:

Post a Comment