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Mending Hearts #1
Running on Empty
I had the perfect life.
Beautiful and loving husband.Three gorgeous little girls.
Successful career.
The only thing missing was the white picket fence. I really wanted that fence.
Three years ago, I lost that life. I lost my husband. And I lost myself. But, eventually, I found my way through the darkness. I’ve made peace with my new life. I have my girls, and that’s all that matters. They are my world. I have no illusions of ever falling in love again or getting whisked away on a white horse.
But then he came back into my life. On a freakin’ motorcycle.
There’s no way I’ll let him turn my life completely upside down. Absolutely no way.
The question is…
How long can I keep pretending that I’m happy with my life being right-side up?
Beautiful and loving husband.Three gorgeous little girls.
Successful career.
The only thing missing was the white picket fence. I really wanted that fence.
Three years ago, I lost that life. I lost my husband. And I lost myself. But, eventually, I found my way through the darkness. I’ve made peace with my new life. I have my girls, and that’s all that matters. They are my world. I have no illusions of ever falling in love again or getting whisked away on a white horse.
But then he came back into my life. On a freakin’ motorcycle.
There’s no way I’ll let him turn my life completely upside down. Absolutely no way.
The question is…
How long can I keep pretending that I’m happy with my life being right-side up?
292 pages, Kindle Edition
First published January 4, 2013
122 people are currently reading
5844 people want to read
About the author
L.B. Simmons
10 books1,481 followersAfter graduating from Texas A&M University, L.B. Simmons did what any biomedical science major could do. She entered the workforce as a full-time chemist. Years later, never in her wildest dreams would she have imagined herself a USA Today Bestselling contemporary romance author as well.
What began as a memoir for her children, ended up being her first self-published book, Running on Empty. Initially it was written to chronicle their actions, their phrases, and their silly arguments so that when they were older, they would always have those memories. The memoir soon began to take on a life of its own, morphing into the story of a single mother with three little girls finding love when she least expected it. Soon after, her girls were given reoccurring roles in the remainder of what became the Mending Hearts series.
That's how her journey as an author began, and she hopes to God it never ends.
L.B. Simmons doesn’t just write books. With each new work, she attempts to compose journeys of love and self-discovery so she may impart life lessons to readers. Several novels later, she’s tackled suicide, depression, bullying, eating disorders, as well as physical and sexual abuse, all the while weaving elements of humor into the storylines in effort to balance the difficult topics. Often described as roller coaster rides, her novels are known for eliciting a wide range of emotions in each story she tells.
What began as a memoir for her children, ended up being her first self-published book, Running on Empty. Initially it was written to chronicle their actions, their phrases, and their silly arguments so that when they were older, they would always have those memories. The memoir soon began to take on a life of its own, morphing into the story of a single mother with three little girls finding love when she least expected it. Soon after, her girls were given reoccurring roles in the remainder of what became the Mending Hearts series.
That's how her journey as an author began, and she hopes to God it never ends.
L.B. Simmons doesn’t just write books. With each new work, she attempts to compose journeys of love and self-discovery so she may impart life lessons to readers. Several novels later, she’s tackled suicide, depression, bullying, eating disorders, as well as physical and sexual abuse, all the while weaving elements of humor into the storylines in effort to balance the difficult topics. Often described as roller coaster rides, her novels are known for eliciting a wide range of emotions in each story she tells.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 637 reviews
February 22, 2013
THIS REVIEW WAS POSTED AT ANGIE'S DREAMY READS
5 FANTABULOUS, MARVELOUS, AMAZING STARS
HEY...HEY YOU!!! YES YOU...Please read my review because I'm in LOVE with this book and I want you to read it. SERIOUSLY....I absolutely loved and adored it!!
AHHHHHHHHH......Yes!
Hehehehe.....ok! I'll stop swooning now.
What do I think about this book??? Wellll
I LOVE it...like seriously, deliriously love it AND guess what?? It had NO sex and I still loved it BIG TIME!!Yip, I know!!!! To me that says something about the author, she just scooped me up and invaded my heart while these characters burst to life in me. They wormed their way into my heart and I just could not get enough. When I reached the last page I actually had tears in my eyes and my heart hurt because I was SO NOT done with them. I wanted more, needed more.
I think one of the main reasons I loved this book so much was because I related to the main character Alex. She's a mother of 3 girls (I’m a mom of 3 girls too) who’s struggling to put the death of her husband Derek behind her. I just kept imagining myself in her position with my kids and my husband passing away and honestly it ripped my heart in two. I just couldn't imagine it.
Derek's been dead for three years! I live with that knowledge every single day of my life. Every day, I wake up still expecting him to be lying next to me. Every day, I look at these children and wonder if they have any inkling of how wonderful, caring, smart, beautiful, strong, and loving their father really was. I live my life, every day, with the heart that is completely empty. I have a heart that unfortunately is irreparable. - Alex
Even though Alex is struggling to move on with her life, she’s still an amazing mother to her three girls. She’s attentive and loving; it warmed my heart like NOTHING else. I loved the way she interacted with them. She has this amazing snarky and dramatic personality that I completely adored. The little eye rolls and motherly death stares made me laugh out loud. I LOVED, LOVED, LOVED the constant giggling and her little sarcastic comments. The “note to self’s” were completely awesome. In fact I think those NOTE TO SELF’S were one of the HIGHLIGHTS of the book. It’s not often that I fall this hard for a female lead but I think Alex easily takes the top spot on my list. She’s the quintessential strong, independent and inspirational woman.
Blake....oh my, my, my! Where do I start. This man....swoon! Seriously he's completely swoontastic. We first meet Blake when he pulls up on the side of the road to help Alex out of a Jam. He gets off of his motorcycle and its
BAM
BAM
BAM
LUST at first freaking site. He’s deliciously sweet and so giving and patient. His love for Alex poured from the pages. He slowly brings her back to life, repairs her heart and makes her whole. It was beyond what a girl could dream. He made me smile, gave me butterflies! He just came in and loved Alex. There was no crazy jealousy over her love for Derek, only understanding for her situation. He made me all melty inside and I can’t say enough I was completely CAPTIVATED and CONSUMED by him.
With one whiff I am completely overwhelmed. So many feelings at one time. I feel safe, I feel protected, I feel relief, I feel scared, I feel vulnerable, I feel desired, I feel....Everything - Alex on the way Blake makes her feel
When Alex and Blake get back together after years of not seeing each other it’s a little rough. They go way back and have know each other since they were kids. They use to be best friends and were inseparable until Alex met Derek and things between her and Blake drifted apart. Alex’s is not the type of girl that likes to ask for help. She doesn't like handouts unless they are from her bestie Harlow (who I just want to add is AMAZING, FUNNY and the PERFECT bestie). So when Blake shows up and tries to help her she fight’s him big time. Feeling bad that she’s been a complete ass to him she decides to go to his house and tell him sorry. Well lets just say Blake accidentally does something that leaves Alex a bit on the injured side (what happened was so funny), and as life would have it, it just so happens that the weekend she's injured all of her helpers are busy. This leaves Alex in a tight spot because she’s too injured to watch the girls by herself. So you guessed it....Blake has to help. Well that’s the start of a rekindled friendship that will bring a heartwarming happiness and silly smile to your face.
I love you, Alex. I've loved you when we were kids....and I've continued to love you every day since - Blake
I just really can’t say it enough. I felt L.B Simmons did such a remarkable job at showing us that there is life after something tragic. Sometimes things happen and they are earth shattering but we can move on and live. Not only for those around us but for ourselves. Happiness is found in relationships with others. Those are important human elements. To be loved and to love back and this was an incredible moving story that touched me deep. Alex lost her love, the father of her children. She struggled with moving on, dishonoring his memory and letting him go. She learned to overcome those things and make the best of a life that she was left to live and with those choices she got the second chance at a fairy-tale romance!! AND if anyone knows me they know that I am a HOPELESS romantic. So this book was FOOD for my SOUL.
I’m sure you've guessed it but I would absolutely, most definitely, positively RECOMMEND this book. It was absolutely brilliant.
MY BLAKE AND ALEX
5 FANTABULOUS, MARVELOUS, AMAZING STARS
HEY...HEY YOU!!! YES YOU...Please read my review because I'm in LOVE with this book and I want you to read it. SERIOUSLY....I absolutely loved and adored it!!
AHHHHHHHHH......Yes!
Hehehehe.....ok! I'll stop swooning now.
What do I think about this book??? Wellll
I LOVE it...like seriously, deliriously love it AND guess what?? It had NO sex and I still loved it BIG TIME!!Yip, I know!!!! To me that says something about the author, she just scooped me up and invaded my heart while these characters burst to life in me. They wormed their way into my heart and I just could not get enough. When I reached the last page I actually had tears in my eyes and my heart hurt because I was SO NOT done with them. I wanted more, needed more.
I think one of the main reasons I loved this book so much was because I related to the main character Alex. She's a mother of 3 girls (I’m a mom of 3 girls too) who’s struggling to put the death of her husband Derek behind her. I just kept imagining myself in her position with my kids and my husband passing away and honestly it ripped my heart in two. I just couldn't imagine it.
Derek's been dead for three years! I live with that knowledge every single day of my life. Every day, I wake up still expecting him to be lying next to me. Every day, I look at these children and wonder if they have any inkling of how wonderful, caring, smart, beautiful, strong, and loving their father really was. I live my life, every day, with the heart that is completely empty. I have a heart that unfortunately is irreparable. - Alex
Even though Alex is struggling to move on with her life, she’s still an amazing mother to her three girls. She’s attentive and loving; it warmed my heart like NOTHING else. I loved the way she interacted with them. She has this amazing snarky and dramatic personality that I completely adored. The little eye rolls and motherly death stares made me laugh out loud. I LOVED, LOVED, LOVED the constant giggling and her little sarcastic comments. The “note to self’s” were completely awesome. In fact I think those NOTE TO SELF’S were one of the HIGHLIGHTS of the book. It’s not often that I fall this hard for a female lead but I think Alex easily takes the top spot on my list. She’s the quintessential strong, independent and inspirational woman.
Blake....oh my, my, my! Where do I start. This man....swoon! Seriously he's completely swoontastic. We first meet Blake when he pulls up on the side of the road to help Alex out of a Jam. He gets off of his motorcycle and its
BAM
BAM
BAM
LUST at first freaking site. He’s deliciously sweet and so giving and patient. His love for Alex poured from the pages. He slowly brings her back to life, repairs her heart and makes her whole. It was beyond what a girl could dream. He made me smile, gave me butterflies! He just came in and loved Alex. There was no crazy jealousy over her love for Derek, only understanding for her situation. He made me all melty inside and I can’t say enough I was completely CAPTIVATED and CONSUMED by him.
With one whiff I am completely overwhelmed. So many feelings at one time. I feel safe, I feel protected, I feel relief, I feel scared, I feel vulnerable, I feel desired, I feel....Everything - Alex on the way Blake makes her feel
When Alex and Blake get back together after years of not seeing each other it’s a little rough. They go way back and have know each other since they were kids. They use to be best friends and were inseparable until Alex met Derek and things between her and Blake drifted apart. Alex’s is not the type of girl that likes to ask for help. She doesn't like handouts unless they are from her bestie Harlow (who I just want to add is AMAZING, FUNNY and the PERFECT bestie). So when Blake shows up and tries to help her she fight’s him big time. Feeling bad that she’s been a complete ass to him she decides to go to his house and tell him sorry. Well lets just say Blake accidentally does something that leaves Alex a bit on the injured side (what happened was so funny), and as life would have it, it just so happens that the weekend she's injured all of her helpers are busy. This leaves Alex in a tight spot because she’s too injured to watch the girls by herself. So you guessed it....Blake has to help. Well that’s the start of a rekindled friendship that will bring a heartwarming happiness and silly smile to your face.
I love you, Alex. I've loved you when we were kids....and I've continued to love you every day since - Blake
I just really can’t say it enough. I felt L.B Simmons did such a remarkable job at showing us that there is life after something tragic. Sometimes things happen and they are earth shattering but we can move on and live. Not only for those around us but for ourselves. Happiness is found in relationships with others. Those are important human elements. To be loved and to love back and this was an incredible moving story that touched me deep. Alex lost her love, the father of her children. She struggled with moving on, dishonoring his memory and letting him go. She learned to overcome those things and make the best of a life that she was left to live and with those choices she got the second chance at a fairy-tale romance!! AND if anyone knows me they know that I am a HOPELESS romantic. So this book was FOOD for my SOUL.
I’m sure you've guessed it but I would absolutely, most definitely, positively RECOMMEND this book. It was absolutely brilliant.
MY BLAKE AND ALEX
January 23, 2013
We currently have two free Kindle books of Running on Empty to giveaway at Sinfully Sexy Book Reviews
Beautiful, heartfelt contemporary romance.
Running on Empty is quite a departure for me as a reader and a reviewer. I'm heavily into erotic romance and this one is very low on the steam factor but it had something a little extra special that held my attention - it had a truly awesome hero. Yes, I am now a total Blake-fiend!
From that very first moment that Blake walked up to Alex on the side of the Interstate in his faded jeans with his boot buckles jangling, I was pretty much lost. He's a fantastic hero and I fell under his spell pretty quickly.
Alex is a widow having been married to her High School sweetheart, Derek, and is now raising her 3 beautiful daughters alone. She's doing OK but she's not really living, just carrying on from day to day on a kind of auto-pilot. Her sadness and loss is palpable and radiates right off the page. She's got a great support network but she's putting her life on hold to raise her kids as she is overwhelmed by her grief. She's running on empty.
Blake comes back to town - Alex and Blake had been best friends at school before she'd met Derek and they have a long history. He rescues her from an out of gas incident on the side of the interstate but Alex is prickly and not really receptive to his help but circumstances contrive to throw them together and they begin to rekindle their friendship.
Alex is not about to make things easy and she's so used to employing her various coping mechanisms, she finds it difficult to let go and really feel some emotion and allow Blake to get through to her. Her inner turmoil is well described and poignant as she feels herself developing stronger feelings for Blake but tries to keep a lid on them, refusing to fully acknowledge them as the thought of loving and losing again is so very painful to her. She hurt Blake's feelings more than once and I so wanted to comfort him but I understood why she behaved the way she did, even if I didn't like it.
Blake - oh, Blake! Be still my beating heart. What a gorgeous, caring, patient, attentive man. What woman, widow or not, wouldn't want someone like Blake to have their back. He's never forgotten how much he and Alex meant to each other and is prepared to play the waiting game, to give Alex the space and time she needs but he loves her deeply. He's also brilliant with her three lively daughters and they adore him almost straight away. He's going to slowly bring Alex back to life at a time when she needed it most.
So, this is a soulful, deeply emotional romance - very low on the steam factor but high on chemistry and just full of feel-good, goofy-grin loveliness.
4 stars contemporary romance
For more reviews, please visit Sinfully Sexy Book Reviews or visit us on Facebook.
I won a copy of this book at Natasha is a Book Junkie. Thanks sweetie!
Beautiful, heartfelt contemporary romance.
Running on Empty is quite a departure for me as a reader and a reviewer. I'm heavily into erotic romance and this one is very low on the steam factor but it had something a little extra special that held my attention - it had a truly awesome hero. Yes, I am now a total Blake-fiend!
From that very first moment that Blake walked up to Alex on the side of the Interstate in his faded jeans with his boot buckles jangling, I was pretty much lost. He's a fantastic hero and I fell under his spell pretty quickly.
Alex is a widow having been married to her High School sweetheart, Derek, and is now raising her 3 beautiful daughters alone. She's doing OK but she's not really living, just carrying on from day to day on a kind of auto-pilot. Her sadness and loss is palpable and radiates right off the page. She's got a great support network but she's putting her life on hold to raise her kids as she is overwhelmed by her grief. She's running on empty.
Blake comes back to town - Alex and Blake had been best friends at school before she'd met Derek and they have a long history. He rescues her from an out of gas incident on the side of the interstate but Alex is prickly and not really receptive to his help but circumstances contrive to throw them together and they begin to rekindle their friendship.
Alex is not about to make things easy and she's so used to employing her various coping mechanisms, she finds it difficult to let go and really feel some emotion and allow Blake to get through to her. Her inner turmoil is well described and poignant as she feels herself developing stronger feelings for Blake but tries to keep a lid on them, refusing to fully acknowledge them as the thought of loving and losing again is so very painful to her. She hurt Blake's feelings more than once and I so wanted to comfort him but I understood why she behaved the way she did, even if I didn't like it.
Blake - oh, Blake! Be still my beating heart. What a gorgeous, caring, patient, attentive man. What woman, widow or not, wouldn't want someone like Blake to have their back. He's never forgotten how much he and Alex meant to each other and is prepared to play the waiting game, to give Alex the space and time she needs but he loves her deeply. He's also brilliant with her three lively daughters and they adore him almost straight away. He's going to slowly bring Alex back to life at a time when she needed it most.
So, this is a soulful, deeply emotional romance - very low on the steam factor but high on chemistry and just full of feel-good, goofy-grin loveliness.
4 stars contemporary romance
For more reviews, please visit Sinfully Sexy Book Reviews or visit us on Facebook.
I won a copy of this book at Natasha is a Book Junkie. Thanks sweetie!
January 9, 2013
Running on Empty is a great emotional read. A story about loss, love, friendship, and second chances.
Alex is a 33 year old widowed mother of 3 wonderful and rambunctious girls. She has spent the last 3 years of her life as a shell of her former self. Ever since her husband Derek died, she hasn't been able to really live.
Blake was Alex's best friend as a child. They were always together and could talk about anything. Everything changed between Blake and Alex when Alex met Derek in her early teens. After not seeing each other since highschool, Blake rides back in town(on his motorcycle ;-) After a few encounters with each other, Blake and Alex finally reconnect and resume their friendship. Alex has trouble accepting help from Blake. After losing Derek, Alex is afraid to feel anything. She knows she could never handle losing another love again. But after spending so much time with Blake, and seeing him with her daughters, she starts to feel for him.
I feel safe.
I feel protected.
I feel relief.
I feel scared.
I feel vulnerable.
I feel....
Everything.
Alex finally feels like she can start living and loving again. With these feelings, comes a lot of guilt. She is conflicted about her feelings for Blake... Is she betraying her dead husband or tarnishing his memory? All her friends and family, even Derek's family knows that is not the case...
"your happiness was the most important thing in the world to him and he would be heartbroken to see you live this shell of a life your living now."
I really felt for Alex. She was broken, but she was also strong and Independant. She kept her self together when all she wanted to do was fall apart. She made me laugh at time. I loved her self made shirts and notes to herself!
Blake was a stud, but he was also one of the most sweet, loving and patient guys. The way he interacted with Alex's girls melted my heart! Alex's friend Harlow was a devoted best friend. Her 3 daughters, Nycole, Kyndall and Rylie were the best! They were crazy, fun, smart and hilarious kids!
This was a sweet story, with a beautiful ending. I am a sucker for friendship to love stories. I do with there was an epilogue... I would love to see what happens with these two down the road. Overall an enjoyable read!
Alex is a 33 year old widowed mother of 3 wonderful and rambunctious girls. She has spent the last 3 years of her life as a shell of her former self. Ever since her husband Derek died, she hasn't been able to really live.
Blake was Alex's best friend as a child. They were always together and could talk about anything. Everything changed between Blake and Alex when Alex met Derek in her early teens. After not seeing each other since highschool, Blake rides back in town(on his motorcycle ;-) After a few encounters with each other, Blake and Alex finally reconnect and resume their friendship. Alex has trouble accepting help from Blake. After losing Derek, Alex is afraid to feel anything. She knows she could never handle losing another love again. But after spending so much time with Blake, and seeing him with her daughters, she starts to feel for him.
I feel safe.
I feel protected.
I feel relief.
I feel scared.
I feel vulnerable.
I feel....
Everything.
Alex finally feels like she can start living and loving again. With these feelings, comes a lot of guilt. She is conflicted about her feelings for Blake... Is she betraying her dead husband or tarnishing his memory? All her friends and family, even Derek's family knows that is not the case...
"your happiness was the most important thing in the world to him and he would be heartbroken to see you live this shell of a life your living now."
I really felt for Alex. She was broken, but she was also strong and Independant. She kept her self together when all she wanted to do was fall apart. She made me laugh at time. I loved her self made shirts and notes to herself!
Blake was a stud, but he was also one of the most sweet, loving and patient guys. The way he interacted with Alex's girls melted my heart! Alex's friend Harlow was a devoted best friend. Her 3 daughters, Nycole, Kyndall and Rylie were the best! They were crazy, fun, smart and hilarious kids!
This was a sweet story, with a beautiful ending. I am a sucker for friendship to love stories. I do with there was an epilogue... I would love to see what happens with these two down the road. Overall an enjoyable read!
January 7, 2013
3 1/2 to 4 Stars
Running on Empty tells the story of a widowed mom, Alex and her three adorable young daughters’ and their second chance at love and happiness.
Alex is stuck in the motions of day to day living since the death of her husband three years ago. The author’s depiction of Alex’s love and banter with her girls is realistic and for me relatable (I’m a mom of two daughters) while her quest to keep herself and her girls from never being hurt again seems impossible but it is understandable.
Alex runs a business with her best girlfriend Harlow Reed who is also a huge help to the family. Harlow urges Alex to see that her life isn’t over so to say.
Childhood friend Blake Morgan comes back to town on his motorcycle and rescues Alex from her dull drum existence. Alex and Blake’s relationship has a bit of a back story. He teaches her that asking for help isn’t a weakness and that love and happiness are a possibility. Is Alex brave enough to go for it?
”You’ll never have your happy ending unless you’re brave enough to open the book and start your story.”
There are a lot of entertaining aspects to the story, interaction with the girls, the t-shirts (I also own the one that says “Save Ferris”) the 80s movies and references and of course Alex’s notes to self.
Alex and Blake stumble along the way but with the help of a butterfly they find their way.
“And with that knowledge, I find the courage to open my book and start my second story.”
I found the story slightly predictable but entertaining. I do wish that there had been an epilogue included in the book.
Running on Empty tells the story of a widowed mom, Alex and her three adorable young daughters’ and their second chance at love and happiness.
Alex is stuck in the motions of day to day living since the death of her husband three years ago. The author’s depiction of Alex’s love and banter with her girls is realistic and for me relatable (I’m a mom of two daughters) while her quest to keep herself and her girls from never being hurt again seems impossible but it is understandable.
Alex runs a business with her best girlfriend Harlow Reed who is also a huge help to the family. Harlow urges Alex to see that her life isn’t over so to say.
Childhood friend Blake Morgan comes back to town on his motorcycle and rescues Alex from her dull drum existence. Alex and Blake’s relationship has a bit of a back story. He teaches her that asking for help isn’t a weakness and that love and happiness are a possibility. Is Alex brave enough to go for it?
”You’ll never have your happy ending unless you’re brave enough to open the book and start your story.”
There are a lot of entertaining aspects to the story, interaction with the girls, the t-shirts (I also own the one that says “Save Ferris”) the 80s movies and references and of course Alex’s notes to self.
Alex and Blake stumble along the way but with the help of a butterfly they find their way.
“And with that knowledge, I find the courage to open my book and start my second story.”
I found the story slightly predictable but entertaining. I do wish that there had been an epilogue included in the book.
January 10, 2013
“I love you, Alex. I loved you when we were kids… and I’ve continued to love you every day since.”
Have you ever read a book that made you feel like you’re indulging in a warm bubble bath, all your senses being spoiled, serenely happy and without a worry in the world? This is that book. It will warm your heart in so many wonderful ways you’ll never want to leave the delightful world of Alex, Blake, Harlow and the three munchkins that steal the show every chance they get.
Alex is a young single mother of three beautiful daughters under ten years of age, having lost her husband when her youngest was only a baby. Her entire life revolves around her children’s happiness, putting their needs first, making every decision with them in mind and neglecting the deep hole that was left in her heart after her husband passed away. Deep down, Alex is lonely, inconsolably desolate from having lost her husband, a man she had loved most of her life. Her sadness suffocates her, slowly extinguishing the bright spark in her eyes, as she longs for the love and partnership she once had, but believing she would never find it again. Or let herself find it again.
Alex hides her sadness and pain but those who love her see it clearly and cannot help but want for her to move on with her life and find happiness again.
“You go on, each day, as though you’re happy and at peace with your life. Or at least trying to convince yourself that you are. But you also go on, each day, not really living.”
And then her oldest friend comes back to town. Once inseparable as children, their lives took different paths once she met the man she would eventually marry but they never forgot the unconditional love they once shared. Blake re-enters her life in a moment of desperate need, forcing her to not only accept what she hates accepting the most from others – help - but also to consider letting another man in her heart again. Blake is patient, considerate, understanding – he knows Alex better than she knows herself, always seeing her attempts at pushing him away as fear rather than lack of interest.
“It’s so much easier for me to cling to the memories of happiness than to consider any possibility of losing someone again.”
And so it starts an entertaining but genuinely touching battle inside Alex. On one side, she dreams of being taken care of again, of being loved, cherished, protected by someone like Blake, someone EXACTLY like Blake.
“I feel safe. I feel protected. I feel relief. I feel scared. I feel vulnerable. I feel desire. I feel… Everything.”
She is drawn to him, her feelings for him are easily ignited, being founded on years of affection and friendship. But her fear of experiencing heart-shattering loss again paralyses her, filling her with apprehension and doubts. She rationalises this in her head by convincing herself that she is protecting her daughters from potential pain and loss, but it is her own terror of the unknown that keeps her from embracing her feelings for Blake.
In this heart-warming story of second chances at happiness in life, we are shown that sometimes it is not the heart that needs to move on, but rather the mind that stalls the heart from embracing love again. Even when the right person is before your eyes, the mind plays tricks on you and convinces you to see what fear wants you to see. Until it is too late…
Through humour, sarcasm, compelling heartache, we are given a beautifully written account of a young woman’s battle with herself. Torn between her heart and what her head tells her she should be feeling or not feeling, Alex tries hard to reconcile her late husband’s role in her life with what her heart is undeniably feeling now. A novel by one of the genuinely nicest authors around, this book will elate you and entertain you, it will make you laugh out loud through bittersweet tears in your eyes and it will make you grin ear to ear. With a loveable group of characters, each one of them leaving a deep mark in your heart, this is a story that will stay with you and make you consider all the missed opportunities and all the ‘what-ifs’ in your own life.
“You’ll never have your happy ending unless you’re brave enough to open the book and start your story.”
[4.5 STARS}
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January 13, 2013
4 STARS
I really loved this book. I felt connected to this book and I felt her pain. In some way it felt like I was reading a book about my parents and me as a child.
I lost my father at the age of 9 and we are 3 girls. And believe me when I say 4 women in one house….. Disaster but in a good way. And today my mom and sisters are my best friends in the world.
I loved, Nycole, Kyndall and Rylie. Rylie was die cutest of them all.
I laughed, I cried and I fell in love with Blake Morgan. Well who wouldn’t a sexy as hell biker. I’m SOLD Hie hie. I loved the “notes” that she made in her mind of what to remember.
STEAM FACTOR - LOW (but I have to say it didn’t bother me one bit think I had my steam fix the last couple of books, haha)
I have to say one thing that I really missed is a Epilogue It was still a HEA but I would have loved to see what happened a few months down the line.
I hope LB Simmons writes more books because I will definitely read more of her books. Well done LB Simmons, I loved it
FAVOURITE QUOTES / LINES IN THE BOOK
“You’ll never have your happy ending unless you’re brave enough to open the book and start your story.”
“ Mama?” “Yes, ma’am?” “I love you infinity.” “I love you infinity times infinity.”
**********************************************************
Bought this for $3.99 and NOT $99.99 phew haha
**********************************************************
I see this is out early... but I think there is a mistake on smashwords... mine says it is $99.99 WTF???
Herewith the link for smashwords...
https://www.smashwords.com/books/view...
I really loved this book. I felt connected to this book and I felt her pain. In some way it felt like I was reading a book about my parents and me as a child.
I lost my father at the age of 9 and we are 3 girls. And believe me when I say 4 women in one house….. Disaster but in a good way. And today my mom and sisters are my best friends in the world.
I loved, Nycole, Kyndall and Rylie. Rylie was die cutest of them all.
I laughed, I cried and I fell in love with Blake Morgan. Well who wouldn’t a sexy as hell biker. I’m SOLD Hie hie. I loved the “notes” that she made in her mind of what to remember.
STEAM FACTOR - LOW (but I have to say it didn’t bother me one bit think I had my steam fix the last couple of books, haha)
I have to say one thing that I really missed is a Epilogue It was still a HEA but I would have loved to see what happened a few months down the line.
I hope LB Simmons writes more books because I will definitely read more of her books. Well done LB Simmons, I loved it
FAVOURITE QUOTES / LINES IN THE BOOK
“You’ll never have your happy ending unless you’re brave enough to open the book and start your story.”
“ Mama?” “Yes, ma’am?” “I love you infinity.” “I love you infinity times infinity.”
**********************************************************
Bought this for $3.99 and NOT $99.99 phew haha
**********************************************************
I see this is out early... but I think there is a mistake on smashwords... mine says it is $99.99 WTF???
Herewith the link for smashwords...
https://www.smashwords.com/books/view...
August 28, 2016
3.5 to 4 Heartfelt Stars!
Running on Empty is a really beautiful second chance romance with a truly amazing man whose unconditional love is one for the ages.
Alex is a widowed mom of 3 who is living day by day. Her life is a bit of chaos, but IMO she seems to be handling it in stride. She lost her husband tragically and she has yet to truly love on. Her girls are her sole purpose and quite honestly, even with the ups and downs, her heart seems full. Of course it's not hard to see what has been missing when her childhood best friend returns to town.
The sexy, strong and always loyal Blake Morgan has come home to "help" out. Even with all of Alex's pushing away he stands up tall and sturdy, taking all her sass as she doen not need a hand out! He is a man who has waited a lifetime for her to see the love in his eyes for her. So with a gentle hand and open heart he takes care of her and her girls, slowly breaking down the walls of Alex's heart.
While this story was of course predictable, I really enjoyed the ride. I loved Blake's loyalty and kind heart. I also loved that Alex had to come I terms with her heart and future on her own. The addition of three awesome little girls made the tale so heartfelt. I just wished the repetitive use of the character's names was a little less...but that's a pet peeve for me! I also would have loved a bit more passionate steam for my dirty mind! Oh, well...sometimes sweet love is good too!
Running on Empty is a really beautiful second chance romance with a truly amazing man whose unconditional love is one for the ages.
Alex is a widowed mom of 3 who is living day by day. Her life is a bit of chaos, but IMO she seems to be handling it in stride. She lost her husband tragically and she has yet to truly love on. Her girls are her sole purpose and quite honestly, even with the ups and downs, her heart seems full. Of course it's not hard to see what has been missing when her childhood best friend returns to town.
The sexy, strong and always loyal Blake Morgan has come home to "help" out. Even with all of Alex's pushing away he stands up tall and sturdy, taking all her sass as she doen not need a hand out! He is a man who has waited a lifetime for her to see the love in his eyes for her. So with a gentle hand and open heart he takes care of her and her girls, slowly breaking down the walls of Alex's heart.
While this story was of course predictable, I really enjoyed the ride. I loved Blake's loyalty and kind heart. I also loved that Alex had to come I terms with her heart and future on her own. The addition of three awesome little girls made the tale so heartfelt. I just wished the repetitive use of the character's names was a little less...but that's a pet peeve for me! I also would have loved a bit more passionate steam for my dirty mind! Oh, well...sometimes sweet love is good too!
June 26, 2013
"You'll never have your happy ending unless you're brave enough to open the book and start your story."
Oh my... This is one of those times when I'm sure I won't be able to find the right words to describe how amazing the story is. I laughed, cried, smiled, fell in love, enjoyed every second of it, and it left me wanting more!
Alex is a widow. Her husband Derek died in a car accident three years earlier, and left her with their three daughters. She's alive. He's not. But Alex is not living, actually. She's just going through the motions, and running on empty. Although her best friend Harlow and Derek's parents are there for her, she is struggling, and trying to stay strong and do it all on her own. There were times when I wanted to shake some sense into her, but I really loved her character.
Blake, on the other hand... What a perfect hero! Alex and Blake were inseparable as kids. It all changed once Derek entered the picture, and it seemed like their friendship went up in smoke. Blake left town after high school, but he's back now, and things are about to change... for all of them.
Blake is one of those guys you can't help but instantly fall in love with. He's incredibly kind, charming, compassionate, caring, funny... He's every girl's dream come true. Or he should be, at least. What he's definitely NOT is bad boy. But, that is just a huge plus here. Trust me...
Running On Empty is an incredible, heartbreaking, highly emotional story. It's a story about love, friendship, loss, forgiveness, second chances, and life. I can't even begin to describe how much I enjoyed reading it. The ending was just... amazing! There are only two things that could have made it even more perfect – a proper (longer) epilogue, and Blake's POV.
Still, I highly recommend this book, and hope you won't miss it. Especially since there's more of Alex and Blake in "Recovery".
This review was originally written for The Romance Reviews
February 22, 2013
I tried. I may come back to it.
I don't think there's anything wrong with this book per se...but everything that happens just felt like the old same old. There are just too many good books out there for this story to compete. The writing felt detached, I wasn't feeling it. The funny bits aren't funny and the sad bits aren't sad.
Alex still has some measures of pride left but she knows when to let go. She's happy and she thinks that her girls are it for her. So when Blake turns up, she's all.
“I don’t have time for this shit,”
Considering that Alex behaviour is a little strange, I peg her to be unstable. Firstly, she doesn't actually remember much about Blake, her childhood BFF – all she does know is that he makes her angry. Secondly, she changes her mind at the flip of a switch. One moment, she's determined to thank Blake for a favour and the next, for absolutely no reason she's going psycho on him and causing scenes in public places.
Once upon a time Blake and Alex were joined at the hip and Blake had plans to date Alex. However she met the love of her life and practically left Blake and their friendship out in the cold.
BFF
Yes. I have a BFF section. Alex's best friend Harlow has a unique name, but that's where all originality ends. She's just like any other cookie cutter bestie who is of course, beautiful, and of course, loyal and awesome and just bleh. I know this is a rather ridiculous complaint but I hate it when the compulsory best friend doesn't add anything to the story.
I don't think there's anything wrong with this book per se...but everything that happens just felt like the old same old. There are just too many good books out there for this story to compete. The writing felt detached, I wasn't feeling it. The funny bits aren't funny and the sad bits aren't sad.
Alex still has some measures of pride left but she knows when to let go. She's happy and she thinks that her girls are it for her. So when Blake turns up, she's all.
“I don’t have time for this shit,”
Considering that Alex behaviour is a little strange, I peg her to be unstable. Firstly, she doesn't actually remember much about Blake, her childhood BFF – all she does know is that he makes her angry. Secondly, she changes her mind at the flip of a switch. One moment, she's determined to thank Blake for a favour and the next, for absolutely no reason she's going psycho on him and causing scenes in public places.
Once upon a time Blake and Alex were joined at the hip and Blake had plans to date Alex. However she met the love of her life and practically left Blake and their friendship out in the cold.
BFF
Yes. I have a BFF section. Alex's best friend Harlow has a unique name, but that's where all originality ends. She's just like any other cookie cutter bestie who is of course, beautiful, and of course, loyal and awesome and just bleh. I know this is a rather ridiculous complaint but I hate it when the compulsory best friend doesn't add anything to the story.
Want to read
January 27, 2013I WON!!
**Thank you to L.B Simmons for a copy of Running on Empty and to Sinfully Sexy Book Reviews for hosting the giveaway!**
April 14, 2013
You know that kind of delicious aniticipatory feeling where you're going to sneeze but it's just not quite happening yet, it's building and building, so ticklish that it's almost painful, but fun, too? That's how I felt about Alex coming to her senses and realizing what the hell she was doing in this lovely sweet and emotionally satisfying read that nonetheless made me want to reach in and slap some sense into this charming and believable MC. Mr. Swoony-boots (aka Blake), is a wonderful and cool character too, for some reason I imagined him looking and sounding like Trace Adkins (weird, right). He's the almost too good to be true second chance romance that everyone but Alex realizes is just what she needs. Other charming elements include a super characterful and kooky group of kids who are the light of Alex's life, and a window to let that life back in. Also included is the best book best friend ever, the irrepressible and engaging Harlow. Man, everyone should have a friend like that. She not only brings a lot into Alex's life, she brings a lot into this book too, and I for one, think she might just be worthy of a book of her own, whaddya say, L.B.? This is a read that truly deserves the adjective "heart-warming." Let it into your life, and feel the sunshine.
February 6, 2013
4.5 stars
Alex runs out of gas the day Blake Morgan rides into town. Alex can’t believe her eyes; she hasn’t seen Blake since they graduated high school. Alex and Blake used to be best-friends but that all changes when Derek comes into their lives, without a second thought Alex leaves Blake behind.
There is something about Blake that riles Alex up and every chance she gets she takes all her frustration out on him. She was a total bitch, but Harlow being the kick ass BFF that she is, calls her out on it.
After a little accident and an apology, Alex has no choice but to get help from Blake, after all she does have her three beautiful daughters to think about, Nycole (9), Kyndall (7) and Rylie (4). Alex and Blake pick up their friendship right where they left off, he has all the girls charmed and it doesn’t take long for Blake to mold into their lives.
For the first time in years, Alex starts to feel, and it’s all thanks a very patient man.
She can’t seem to give herself to Blake, the risk of losing the memory of her husband holds her back. Alex needs to be in control, making sure nothing will ever hurt her or the girls again. So she does the only thing she knows how to do and push him away.
I was looking for something different, something that was more emotional and Running on Empty, was everything I needed and more, it’s a second chance love story, but with sarcasm, humor and playful banter. I really loved their story; it was all kinds of sweet, Blake is so different than the type I go for, he is nowhere near an alpha man, but by god’s I think I finally found a sweetie that totally does it for me. I just wish we got to get Blake's POV as well, how I would have loved to know what was going on inside his head with all the chuckles and smirks. I wonder if we get Harlow and Trace’s story next???
”You’ll never have your happy ending unless you’re brave enough to open the book and start your story… Are you brave enough to start your new story, Alex?”
Alex runs out of gas the day Blake Morgan rides into town. Alex can’t believe her eyes; she hasn’t seen Blake since they graduated high school. Alex and Blake used to be best-friends but that all changes when Derek comes into their lives, without a second thought Alex leaves Blake behind.
There is something about Blake that riles Alex up and every chance she gets she takes all her frustration out on him. She was a total bitch, but Harlow being the kick ass BFF that she is, calls her out on it.
”Note to Self: I am 110% a narcissistic asshole.”
After a little accident and an apology, Alex has no choice but to get help from Blake, after all she does have her three beautiful daughters to think about, Nycole (9), Kyndall (7) and Rylie (4). Alex and Blake pick up their friendship right where they left off, he has all the girls charmed and it doesn’t take long for Blake to mold into their lives.
”Here is this beautiful massive man, smiling and singing the stupid Barney song in my hallway.”
For the first time in years, Alex starts to feel, and it’s all thanks a very patient man.
”I love you, Alex, I loved you when we were just kids and I’ve continued to love you every day since.”
She can’t seem to give herself to Blake, the risk of losing the memory of her husband holds her back. Alex needs to be in control, making sure nothing will ever hurt her or the girls again. So she does the only thing she knows how to do and push him away.
”…let ‘Operation: Alex was an Idiot’ commence.”
I was looking for something different, something that was more emotional and Running on Empty, was everything I needed and more, it’s a second chance love story, but with sarcasm, humor and playful banter. I really loved their story; it was all kinds of sweet, Blake is so different than the type I go for, he is nowhere near an alpha man, but by god’s I think I finally found a sweetie that totally does it for me. I just wish we got to get Blake's POV as well, how I would have loved to know what was going on inside his head with all the chuckles and smirks. I wonder if we get Harlow and Trace’s story next???
January 9, 2013
I figured L.B's book would be good but I just never imagined how good. She blew it out of the park and completely blew my expectations. I have thought about this book all day long.
Alex is a widow and a mother to 3 spitfire little girls (who completely remind me of some other children I know) and takes place 3 years after the death of her husband Derek. She has never moved on from his death, loving him completely still and hanging on to dear life. However, she is a quick witted loving mother who puts her kids first.
Alex has a pretty fantastic best friend by the name of Harlow that stole my heart. She is the kind of friend that everyone should have. Telling you things you need to hear even if it's hard for you to listen to. Everyone should have a Harlow.
Let me introduce Blake. Blake is tall dark and handsome motor cycle riding man of perfection. He and Alex were best friends when they were kids and has just come back in to town after so many years away. Their friendship fell a part years ago and was never resolved. They become friends again and resolve their past which is not something that is fixed over night, it is something they work on and not rushed.
The relationship and dynamic between Alex, Blake and the girls was so moving and heart warming. I COULD NOT GET ENOUGH!
I cried and then I laughed and then I cried and then I laughed. I repeated this process through the whole story. L.B did something truly amazing. She didn't over describe which was so damn refreshing. It was simplified if you will, not in a bad way but in a fantastic get to it and get to the meat of the story kind of way. No need for all the over descriptions throughout. This was a thought out book that flowed throughout and had the best dialogue I have read in a while. The best part is that it was so REAL.
This book is about friendships, family and love and learning that you can still love your past as well as your future. I could not recommend this book more and I truly walked away taking something from it.
Alex is a widow and a mother to 3 spitfire little girls (who completely remind me of some other children I know) and takes place 3 years after the death of her husband Derek. She has never moved on from his death, loving him completely still and hanging on to dear life. However, she is a quick witted loving mother who puts her kids first.
Alex has a pretty fantastic best friend by the name of Harlow that stole my heart. She is the kind of friend that everyone should have. Telling you things you need to hear even if it's hard for you to listen to. Everyone should have a Harlow.
Let me introduce Blake. Blake is tall dark and handsome motor cycle riding man of perfection. He and Alex were best friends when they were kids and has just come back in to town after so many years away. Their friendship fell a part years ago and was never resolved. They become friends again and resolve their past which is not something that is fixed over night, it is something they work on and not rushed.
The relationship and dynamic between Alex, Blake and the girls was so moving and heart warming. I COULD NOT GET ENOUGH!
I cried and then I laughed and then I cried and then I laughed. I repeated this process through the whole story. L.B did something truly amazing. She didn't over describe which was so damn refreshing. It was simplified if you will, not in a bad way but in a fantastic get to it and get to the meat of the story kind of way. No need for all the over descriptions throughout. This was a thought out book that flowed throughout and had the best dialogue I have read in a while. The best part is that it was so REAL.
This book is about friendships, family and love and learning that you can still love your past as well as your future. I could not recommend this book more and I truly walked away taking something from it.
February 18, 2013
Brittany's Review: 4.5 Stars
www.fictionandfashion.com
Running on Empty by L.B. Simmons sort of snuck up on me. I receive emails from Amazon all the time telling me about books that are just like the ones I've bought, or books I most definitely will "love". Most of time I skim them, roll my eyes, and delete.
Well, while wasting a couple minutes waiting for a meeting to start last week, I opened up my trusty Amazon email and found Running on Empty and I'm super glad I did. Running on Empty is a book about love lost and love gained, second chances, and learning to live again.
“You’ll never have your happy ending unless you’re brave enough to open the book and start your story.”
Not only was this the book I was looking for, I can't wait to see what the next book has for us {Seriously, who is it about, what will happen, WHEN?! OK...breath. Just a mild freak out. No worries...}. To say I might have been head over heels with this book would be an understatement. I loved every.single.one.of. the.characters...seriously. I know, I NEVER say that.
Alex Meyer, having lost her husband tragically is left with three, adorably hilarious girls. Not only do I give major props to a strong female character, but Alex had a wonderful complex personality. She understood her faults, her strengths, and even though it might have taken her a little time to see what she had in front of her, I didn't hate her once. I was rooting her on because I wanted her to win. And the prize...well let me tell you.
"All I could do was watch it happen and hate myself for never saying anything. I should have fought harder for you. I won't let that happen again."
Blake Morgan. Yeah, I'll say it again, Blake Morgan. It has a fantastic ring to it. That's because he's the man you always wanted. Previous best friend, gorgeous with messy run your hands through his hair, great with kids, caring, will do anything for you...yup. I don't think he did anything wrong except care too much, oh wait, silly me, he's perfect...and he also rides a motorcycle. {Insert swoon here ladies}.
"Alex, I didn't say there weren't girls. Just nothing serious. I guess I'm just waiting for someone who I actually want to make a priority, not one that I feel like I have to."
The three daughters in this story are hilarious and written perfectly. Honestly, sometimes it's hard to write kids. To make them seem like they are age appropriate. The interaction between the girls with Alex, Harlow {Alex's hilarious best friend and savior}, and Blake makes the book fly by.
"She glares in my direction. I feel like crawling over the seat to strangle her...but I don't...obviously."
"I'm selling them Blake. So don't get too attached. I'm serious Blake."
My only complaint? I was really worried I wasn't going to get a wrapped up ending. The pages with filled with wonderful and were flying by and I was freaking out. I feel content at the end, but I selfishly wanted more like I usually do. I felt like the build up was perfect and then...ugh! Maybe book two will help me with that? Because honestly...where was the freaking epilogue!? Throw a girl a freaking bone!
"I think you look good, wearing my future."
So if my crazy just finish this book rant hasn't sold you yet...I'm not sure what will. Go read, now because this is a solid 4.5 stars. And Blake Morgan book boyfriend page here I come!
www.fictionandfashion.com
Running on Empty by L.B. Simmons sort of snuck up on me. I receive emails from Amazon all the time telling me about books that are just like the ones I've bought, or books I most definitely will "love". Most of time I skim them, roll my eyes, and delete.
Well, while wasting a couple minutes waiting for a meeting to start last week, I opened up my trusty Amazon email and found Running on Empty and I'm super glad I did. Running on Empty is a book about love lost and love gained, second chances, and learning to live again.
“You’ll never have your happy ending unless you’re brave enough to open the book and start your story.”
Not only was this the book I was looking for, I can't wait to see what the next book has for us {Seriously, who is it about, what will happen, WHEN?! OK...breath. Just a mild freak out. No worries...}. To say I might have been head over heels with this book would be an understatement. I loved every.single.one.of. the.characters...seriously. I know, I NEVER say that.
Alex Meyer, having lost her husband tragically is left with three, adorably hilarious girls. Not only do I give major props to a strong female character, but Alex had a wonderful complex personality. She understood her faults, her strengths, and even though it might have taken her a little time to see what she had in front of her, I didn't hate her once. I was rooting her on because I wanted her to win. And the prize...well let me tell you.
"All I could do was watch it happen and hate myself for never saying anything. I should have fought harder for you. I won't let that happen again."
Blake Morgan. Yeah, I'll say it again, Blake Morgan. It has a fantastic ring to it. That's because he's the man you always wanted. Previous best friend, gorgeous with messy run your hands through his hair, great with kids, caring, will do anything for you...yup. I don't think he did anything wrong except care too much, oh wait, silly me, he's perfect...and he also rides a motorcycle. {Insert swoon here ladies}.
"Alex, I didn't say there weren't girls. Just nothing serious. I guess I'm just waiting for someone who I actually want to make a priority, not one that I feel like I have to."
The three daughters in this story are hilarious and written perfectly. Honestly, sometimes it's hard to write kids. To make them seem like they are age appropriate. The interaction between the girls with Alex, Harlow {Alex's hilarious best friend and savior}, and Blake makes the book fly by.
"She glares in my direction. I feel like crawling over the seat to strangle her...but I don't...obviously."
"I'm selling them Blake. So don't get too attached. I'm serious Blake."
My only complaint? I was really worried I wasn't going to get a wrapped up ending. The pages with filled with wonderful and were flying by and I was freaking out. I feel content at the end, but I selfishly wanted more like I usually do. I felt like the build up was perfect and then...ugh! Maybe book two will help me with that? Because honestly...where was the freaking epilogue!? Throw a girl a freaking bone!
"I think you look good, wearing my future."
So if my crazy just finish this book rant hasn't sold you yet...I'm not sure what will. Go read, now because this is a solid 4.5 stars. And Blake Morgan book boyfriend page here I come!
June 2, 2013
There's a threshold I can't seem to cross. Is he worth the gamble? I know nothing is guaranteed in this lifetime.
L.B.Simmons' Running on Empty is a warm, heartfelt expression of second chances and redemption. I received an advance copy of this novel to review and what a delight to read it turned out to be! Alex is a widowed mother of three young girls, devastated by the death of her beloved spouse Derek. Blake is her childhood friend who she seemingly left in the dust when she became smitten with Derek in their early teens. This motorcycle riding, testosterone spiking hero returns to their hometown. Lives reconnect, but do feelings long suppressed rise to the forefront or are they submerged, where cracked hearts hide for fear of further assault?
Ms. Simmons' novel is organic in nature. The rekindling of these two individuals is gradual, not forced. Blake has genuine feelings of affection for Alex's daughters, who are precocious and adorable. Alex's witty banter between herself and her best friend and business partner, Harlow, are laugh out loud funny. Alex is no princess, waiting to be reclaimed by a prince, she has flaws and warts and screws up big time. Oh and how those screw ups will frustrate readers and drive them to multiple bouts of eye rolls and teeth gritting. There were times I wanted to duct tape her mouth and lock her in a closet, until she came to her senses. But then I reminded myself Alex is a woman overwhelmed by the utter unfairness of the situation she finds herself in, and is coping the best she can. Blake is patient and loving and swoon worthy. This is not a sweaty, steamy novel. It is mellow and angsty and cool as a summer breeze. Enjoy this one, it will refresh your soul and leave you with the essence of sandalwood and visions of fluttering butterflies.
L.B.Simmons' Running on Empty is a warm, heartfelt expression of second chances and redemption. I received an advance copy of this novel to review and what a delight to read it turned out to be! Alex is a widowed mother of three young girls, devastated by the death of her beloved spouse Derek. Blake is her childhood friend who she seemingly left in the dust when she became smitten with Derek in their early teens. This motorcycle riding, testosterone spiking hero returns to their hometown. Lives reconnect, but do feelings long suppressed rise to the forefront or are they submerged, where cracked hearts hide for fear of further assault?
Ms. Simmons' novel is organic in nature. The rekindling of these two individuals is gradual, not forced. Blake has genuine feelings of affection for Alex's daughters, who are precocious and adorable. Alex's witty banter between herself and her best friend and business partner, Harlow, are laugh out loud funny. Alex is no princess, waiting to be reclaimed by a prince, she has flaws and warts and screws up big time. Oh and how those screw ups will frustrate readers and drive them to multiple bouts of eye rolls and teeth gritting. There were times I wanted to duct tape her mouth and lock her in a closet, until she came to her senses. But then I reminded myself Alex is a woman overwhelmed by the utter unfairness of the situation she finds herself in, and is coping the best she can. Blake is patient and loving and swoon worthy. This is not a sweaty, steamy novel. It is mellow and angsty and cool as a summer breeze. Enjoy this one, it will refresh your soul and leave you with the essence of sandalwood and visions of fluttering butterflies.
May 23, 2015
What I feel for this book is exactly what I felt after I was done with More Than This. I find it has a promising start and very likable characters but then dialogue ruined it.
The whole dialogue was a bit childish for a 30-year-old with two kids and a grieving widow. Not that I'm stereotyping but I didn't feel Alex's maturity through her conversation and thought process. If this part of the book was written a bit differently then WOW! I bet that would have been a 5-starer for me. There's nothing more beautiful than falling in love all over again.
Even though Blake Morgan also needed more depth than being the best-friend-who-is-secretly-in-love-with-his-best-friend-girl cliche, but I liked how he stuck with her and proved to her he loved her no matter how many times she pushed him away. That's got to count for something.
Overall, this could have used more depth and character study than what was presented..
The whole dialogue was a bit childish for a 30-year-old with two kids and a grieving widow. Not that I'm stereotyping but I didn't feel Alex's maturity through her conversation and thought process. If this part of the book was written a bit differently then WOW! I bet that would have been a 5-starer for me. There's nothing more beautiful than falling in love all over again.
Even though Blake Morgan also needed more depth than being the best-friend-who-is-secretly-in-love-with-his-best-friend-girl cliche, but I liked how he stuck with her and proved to her he loved her no matter how many times she pushed him away. That's got to count for something.
Overall, this could have used more depth and character study than what was presented..
February 3, 2013
This book should have been right up my alley. I was feeling for a romantic sweet love story that swept me off my feet and put me in a good mood. For many this book is it but for me it was ok.
why?
1. the Hero is amazing to the point of being a panzy. He was all ways there in the wings I was more in love with the Derek cause he went after what he wanted instead of accepting fate. A man who makes his fate is sexy.
2. The heroine is a b*tch, a bit of a user, and inconsiderate. Worst of all its not like she is that way in the beginning and learns from it she keeps doing it over and over again WTH? Sometimes her voice was just plain annoying sorry.
And for those reason I could not get down with this book. It deserves two but I gave it three cause its well written and has so much else going for it.
why?
1. the Hero is amazing to the point of being a panzy. He was all ways there in the wings I was more in love with the Derek cause he went after what he wanted instead of accepting fate. A man who makes his fate is sexy.
2. The heroine is a b*tch, a bit of a user, and inconsiderate. Worst of all its not like she is that way in the beginning and learns from it she keeps doing it over and over again WTH? Sometimes her voice was just plain annoying sorry.
And for those reason I could not get down with this book. It deserves two but I gave it three cause its well written and has so much else going for it.
January 9, 2013
The author sent me a copy to read as a beta awhile ago for an honest review.
I loved this book. This book had a lot of emotion in it, then angst, the love, the worry the main character had...it had it all. I cried when the characters cried, I felt what they felt. While there were some formatting issues, I *loved* Simmons development of the characters (the daughters are a riot!). I can't wait until I can read it again when it's been all cleaned up. What a GREAT book, and I encourage EVERYONE to read this!
Eta: January 9, 2013: this book did not disappoint. I reread it for the changes and it was GREAT! I think I cried and laughed more now than I did the first time. I think I need a rylie of my own too. :)
I loved this book. This book had a lot of emotion in it, then angst, the love, the worry the main character had...it had it all. I cried when the characters cried, I felt what they felt. While there were some formatting issues, I *loved* Simmons development of the characters (the daughters are a riot!). I can't wait until I can read it again when it's been all cleaned up. What a GREAT book, and I encourage EVERYONE to read this!
Eta: January 9, 2013: this book did not disappoint. I reread it for the changes and it was GREAT! I think I cried and laughed more now than I did the first time. I think I need a rylie of my own too. :)
June 26, 2013
I absolutely love this book. I love Alex, and I think I actually felt every emotion she experienced. Blake is loving, caring, and completely drool worthy. Harlow is a witty, sarcastic, breath of freash air. The girls are so believable with their energy, fighting, and quirky humor. LB has successfully written well rounded characters that the reader can't help but fall in love with. Running on Empty is a story about second chances not only in love but in life.
December 23, 2012
Very good book..I laughed and cried. This book is full of emotion. The interactions between Alex and her daughters are incredible. Really funny stories between them. You will fall in love with the characters. I want to hang out with them! Ready for book 2 from this author!!
February 21, 2013
Jointly reviewed for Totallybookedblog.
Jenny: 4.5
Jenny: What an absolutely delightful read this was Gitte! I enjoyed every minute of this book.
After reading a gut-wrenching book and then not connecting with a couple of others I had previously picked up, this book was just what the doctor ordered! It was such a beautiful heart-warming story and really did give me the reading experience I was looking for at the time. There were so many things I loved about this book. It was moving, it made me laugh, I had a bit of a cry and I just an overall feeling of happiness reading it. The writing was flawless. What more could you want!
Gitte: Oh I absolutely loved this story. I was hooked from page one. What an absolute treat; so beautifully written so flawless and so very poignant. This story is an extremely emotional read about love, loss of a loved one, forgiveness and realising that finding love again after losing your heart is okay.
Jenny: This book about second chances, letting go, moving on, friendships, loyalty and family introduces us to Alex who is a young, once vibrant woman, bringing up three adorable girls following the death of her husband.
Somewhere along the way Alex lost sight of herself. She is so devoted to her children and trying to cope with the loss of her husband 3 years earlier that she doesn’t think for one minute she will ever get a chance at love again. She has accepted that her place in life is to care and bring up her daughters.
Derek was the love of her life and the thought of having kind of love again is something Alex doesn’t consider is in her future.
Gitte: Alex was an amazing character. She had one of the worst life experiences happen to her and she was left to pick up the broken pieces of her 3 daughters hearts as well as her own, mine broke for her too reading this story.
Alex was strong, courageous, sweet, funny and vulnerable. Her relationship with her daughters was admirable and I have to say those three little girls had me in stitches at times. I completely fell in love with them.
“I love you infinity.” “I love you infinity times infinity”
I loved that Alex had a friend like Harlow. The support, the love, the tough talking, Harlow gave it all. She gave Alex strength and the guidance she needed when her head and heart was out of sync.
Alex needed to know and accept that it is okay to continue life and really live and love again after losing the man you love. Not loved as that love can never be replaced. That will live forever in your heart.
Jenny: I adored Alex. I loved her inner dialogue, her little notes to herself. She warmed me and she really did give me a laugh at time
“I stare at him with the best mommy death stare I can conjure up, and he holds it with no fear. Shit…this stuff always works on the girls”.
The interaction with her daughters was nothing short of delightful. What a great mother Alex was and how lucky they all were to have one another.
I have to say these little girls stole the show! They were feisty, funny, cute as buttons and I simply adored them!
Alex and her best friend Harlow run their own company together “so we could smoke in our office all day long, consume adult beverages during work hours, and do nothing but giggle and gossip all day” and what a close bond these two share.
They’ve been through so much together and Harlow is Alex’s rock and I was so happy Alex had someone like Harlow by her side in those tough times. Any lesser friend would have bailed but Harlow was her lifeline and the bond they share is rock solid. They had a great balance and you really did describe Harlow perfectly Gitte.
Gitte: Now, Blake. Oh wow….I have to say his story touched me so much making me cry, truly. I can’t even put into words how much this amazing, gorgeous, generous and completely perfect man affected me.
Blake has never had the love of his life, experienced it or even lived it. He has watched it from afar. His heart lost without return, patiently waiting for a possible chance, not wishing for it, but there waiting should it ever be able to find its true home. A love stemming from a friendship which went through the years and stayed put. A true love, the honest and pure kind.
“I love you, Alex. I loved you when we were just kids…and I’ve continued to love you every day since.”
“I’ve always wanted this future. I was just waiting on you to catch up.”
Jenny: Oh yes, and then we have Blake! Well, what can I say about Blake. I think you pretty much said it all GG!
What a guy! He really was really special and I loved Blake with all my heart!
Alex knew Blake growing up and he has just moved back to her home town. He’s been living in Colorado but returns for family reasons. He sends Alex for a loop as she starts recalling their childhood and teenage years – he unsettles her because he makes her “feel”.
He brings something alive in Alex that she thought had died along with Derek. He brings out feelings she doesn’t want to acknowledge. Blake was just what she needed even though Alex herself didn’t realize he was exactly what she needed.
“I don’t think I have felt anything in years”
Gitte: The relationship between Alex and Blake from their childhood was beautiful. The fact that he has harbored this love for her, felt the pain of rejection, albeit unintentional and unbeknownst to Alex when she fell in love with Derek and completely left her best friend at the wayside.
I can’t even say how much this affected me. I actually think at times this became Blake’s story for me. I wanted HIS happy ending more so as he had missed out on one of the most beautiful things in life; love in return.
“….It just really hurt. You meant a lot to me. You were my best friend.” – Blake
“All I could do was watch it happen and hate myself for never saying anything. I should have fought harder for you…” – Blake
Jenny: The story, told through Alex’s eyes and the flashback glimpses we had of her life the 3 years prior really do allow us to connect with her and experience the devastating loss she went through.
The scene with her husband’s death so moved me and it was heartbreaking. You really did garner the strength of Alex during this time. Even though it crushed her and nearly destroyed her, you really do connect with her and admire the fact she got through it at all.
Watching Alex put up her walls to protect her heart from Blake and see Blake trying to break down her defenses was handled so well.
At times I did get a bit frustrated with Alex, but in her shoes, I’m not sure how I would have coped. I think I just loved Blake so much and saw how perfect he was for her that I immediately wanted Alex to feel the same. I wanted them to be happy together. I truly wanted it with all my heart because these two, along with those beautiful little girls utterly and completely stole my heart.
Gitte: Truly a beautiful story that has left my heart in a puddle on the floor. Alex worked her way into my heart but Blake truly took a piece of it.
“I feel safe. I feel protected. I feel relief. I feel scared. I feel vulnerable. I feel sure. I feel…. Everything.”
Jenny: Absolutely agree with you Gitte. Such a beautiful story and one I thought about for days after. It really did capture my heart.
“But you’ll never have your happy ending unless you’re brave enough to open the book and start your story”
Initially I was a bit surprised that there was no epilogue, but I was satisfied in the knowledge that there will be another book in this series and I’m looking forward to catching up with my new friends Alex, Blake, Harlow, Trace and the Meyer family because there’s no way I’m not ready to say goodbye to them just yet! .
On a side note I would like to add that this book so beautifully edited, it was flawless and a pleasure to read.
Jenny: 4.5
Jenny: What an absolutely delightful read this was Gitte! I enjoyed every minute of this book.
After reading a gut-wrenching book and then not connecting with a couple of others I had previously picked up, this book was just what the doctor ordered! It was such a beautiful heart-warming story and really did give me the reading experience I was looking for at the time. There were so many things I loved about this book. It was moving, it made me laugh, I had a bit of a cry and I just an overall feeling of happiness reading it. The writing was flawless. What more could you want!
Gitte: Oh I absolutely loved this story. I was hooked from page one. What an absolute treat; so beautifully written so flawless and so very poignant. This story is an extremely emotional read about love, loss of a loved one, forgiveness and realising that finding love again after losing your heart is okay.
Jenny: This book about second chances, letting go, moving on, friendships, loyalty and family introduces us to Alex who is a young, once vibrant woman, bringing up three adorable girls following the death of her husband.
Somewhere along the way Alex lost sight of herself. She is so devoted to her children and trying to cope with the loss of her husband 3 years earlier that she doesn’t think for one minute she will ever get a chance at love again. She has accepted that her place in life is to care and bring up her daughters.
Derek was the love of her life and the thought of having kind of love again is something Alex doesn’t consider is in her future.
Gitte: Alex was an amazing character. She had one of the worst life experiences happen to her and she was left to pick up the broken pieces of her 3 daughters hearts as well as her own, mine broke for her too reading this story.
Alex was strong, courageous, sweet, funny and vulnerable. Her relationship with her daughters was admirable and I have to say those three little girls had me in stitches at times. I completely fell in love with them.
“I love you infinity.” “I love you infinity times infinity”
I loved that Alex had a friend like Harlow. The support, the love, the tough talking, Harlow gave it all. She gave Alex strength and the guidance she needed when her head and heart was out of sync.
Alex needed to know and accept that it is okay to continue life and really live and love again after losing the man you love. Not loved as that love can never be replaced. That will live forever in your heart.
Jenny: I adored Alex. I loved her inner dialogue, her little notes to herself. She warmed me and she really did give me a laugh at time
“I stare at him with the best mommy death stare I can conjure up, and he holds it with no fear. Shit…this stuff always works on the girls”.
The interaction with her daughters was nothing short of delightful. What a great mother Alex was and how lucky they all were to have one another.
I have to say these little girls stole the show! They were feisty, funny, cute as buttons and I simply adored them!
Alex and her best friend Harlow run their own company together “so we could smoke in our office all day long, consume adult beverages during work hours, and do nothing but giggle and gossip all day” and what a close bond these two share.
They’ve been through so much together and Harlow is Alex’s rock and I was so happy Alex had someone like Harlow by her side in those tough times. Any lesser friend would have bailed but Harlow was her lifeline and the bond they share is rock solid. They had a great balance and you really did describe Harlow perfectly Gitte.
Gitte: Now, Blake. Oh wow….I have to say his story touched me so much making me cry, truly. I can’t even put into words how much this amazing, gorgeous, generous and completely perfect man affected me.
Blake has never had the love of his life, experienced it or even lived it. He has watched it from afar. His heart lost without return, patiently waiting for a possible chance, not wishing for it, but there waiting should it ever be able to find its true home. A love stemming from a friendship which went through the years and stayed put. A true love, the honest and pure kind.
“I love you, Alex. I loved you when we were just kids…and I’ve continued to love you every day since.”
“I’ve always wanted this future. I was just waiting on you to catch up.”
Jenny: Oh yes, and then we have Blake! Well, what can I say about Blake. I think you pretty much said it all GG!
What a guy! He really was really special and I loved Blake with all my heart!
Alex knew Blake growing up and he has just moved back to her home town. He’s been living in Colorado but returns for family reasons. He sends Alex for a loop as she starts recalling their childhood and teenage years – he unsettles her because he makes her “feel”.
He brings something alive in Alex that she thought had died along with Derek. He brings out feelings she doesn’t want to acknowledge. Blake was just what she needed even though Alex herself didn’t realize he was exactly what she needed.
“I don’t think I have felt anything in years”
Gitte: The relationship between Alex and Blake from their childhood was beautiful. The fact that he has harbored this love for her, felt the pain of rejection, albeit unintentional and unbeknownst to Alex when she fell in love with Derek and completely left her best friend at the wayside.
I can’t even say how much this affected me. I actually think at times this became Blake’s story for me. I wanted HIS happy ending more so as he had missed out on one of the most beautiful things in life; love in return.
“….It just really hurt. You meant a lot to me. You were my best friend.” – Blake
“All I could do was watch it happen and hate myself for never saying anything. I should have fought harder for you…” – Blake
Jenny: The story, told through Alex’s eyes and the flashback glimpses we had of her life the 3 years prior really do allow us to connect with her and experience the devastating loss she went through.
The scene with her husband’s death so moved me and it was heartbreaking. You really did garner the strength of Alex during this time. Even though it crushed her and nearly destroyed her, you really do connect with her and admire the fact she got through it at all.
Watching Alex put up her walls to protect her heart from Blake and see Blake trying to break down her defenses was handled so well.
At times I did get a bit frustrated with Alex, but in her shoes, I’m not sure how I would have coped. I think I just loved Blake so much and saw how perfect he was for her that I immediately wanted Alex to feel the same. I wanted them to be happy together. I truly wanted it with all my heart because these two, along with those beautiful little girls utterly and completely stole my heart.
Gitte: Truly a beautiful story that has left my heart in a puddle on the floor. Alex worked her way into my heart but Blake truly took a piece of it.
“I feel safe. I feel protected. I feel relief. I feel scared. I feel vulnerable. I feel sure. I feel…. Everything.”
Jenny: Absolutely agree with you Gitte. Such a beautiful story and one I thought about for days after. It really did capture my heart.
“But you’ll never have your happy ending unless you’re brave enough to open the book and start your story”
Initially I was a bit surprised that there was no epilogue, but I was satisfied in the knowledge that there will be another book in this series and I’m looking forward to catching up with my new friends Alex, Blake, Harlow, Trace and the Meyer family because there’s no way I’m not ready to say goodbye to them just yet! .
On a side note I would like to add that this book so beautifully edited, it was flawless and a pleasure to read.
January 18, 2013
Jenny: 4.5
Gitte:4.5
Jenny: What an absolutely delightful read this was Gitte! I enjoyed every minute of this book. After reading a gut-wrenching book and then not connecting with a couple of others I had previously picked up, this book was just what the doctor ordered! It was such a beautiful heart-warming story and really did give me the reading experience I was looking for at the time. There were so many things I loved about this book. It was moving, it made me laugh, I had a bit of a cry and I just an overall feeling of happiness reading it. The writing was flawless. What more could you want!
Gitte: Oh I absolutely loved this story. I was hooked from page one. What an absolute treat; so beautifully written so flawless and so very poignant. This story is an extremely emotional read about love, loss of a loved one, forgiveness and realising that finding love again after losing your heart is okay.
Jenny: This book about second chances, letting go, moving on, friendships, loyalty and family introduces us to Alex who is a young, once vibrant woman, bringing up three adorable girls following the death of her husband. Somewhere along the way Alex lost sight of herself. She is so devoted to her children and trying to cope with the loss of her husband 3 years earlier that she doesn’t think for one minute she will ever get a chance at love again. She has accepted that her place in life is to care and bring up her daughters.Derek was the love of her life and the thought of having kind of love again is something Alex doesn’t consider is in her future.
Gitte: Alex was an amazing character. She had one of the worst life experiences happen to her and she was left to pick up the broken pieces of her 3 daughters hearts as well as her own, mine broke for her too reading this story.
Alex was strong, courageous, sweet, funny and vulnerable. Her relationship with her daughters was admirable and I have to say those three little girls had me in stitches at times. I completely fell in love with them.
“I love you infinity.” “I love you infinity times infinity”
I loved that Alex had a friend like Harlow. The support, the love, the tough talking, Harlow gave it all. She gave Alex strength and the guidance she needed when her head and heart was out of sync.
Alex needed to know and accept that it is okay to continue life and really live and love again after losing the man you love. Not loved as that love can never be replaced. That will live forever in your heart.
Jenny: I adored Alex. I loved her inner dialogue, her little notes to herself. She warmed me and she really did give me a laugh at time
“I stare at him with the best mommy death stare I can conjure up, and he holds it with no fear. Shit…this stuff always works on the girls”.
The interaction with her daughters was nothing short of delightful. What a great mother Alex was and how lucky they all were to have one another. I have to say these little girls stole the show! They were feisty, funny, cute as buttons and I simply adored them! Alex and her best friend Harlow run their own company together “so we could smoke in our office all day long, consume adult beverages during work hours, and do nothing but giggle and gossip all day” and what a close bond these two share. They’ve been through so much together and Harlow is Alex’s rock and I was so happy Alex had someone like Harlow by her side in those tough times. Any lesser friend would have bailed but Harlow was her lifeline and the bond they share is rock solid. They had a great balance and you really did describe Harlow perfectly Gitte.
Gitte: Now, Blake. Oh wow….I have to say his story touched me so much making me cry, truly. I can’t even put into words how much this amazing, gorgeous, generous and completely perfect man affected me.
Blake has never had the love of his life, experienced it or even lived it. He has watched it from afar. His heart lost without return, patiently waiting for a possible chance, not wishing for it, but there waiting should it ever be able to find its true home. A love stemming from a friendship which went through the years and stayed put. A true love, the honest and pure kind.
“I love you, Alex. I loved you when we were just kids…and I’ve continued to love you every day since.”
“I’ve always wanted this future. I was just waiting on you to catch up.”
Jenny: Oh yes, and then we have Blake! Well, what can I say about Blake. I think you pretty much said it all GG! What a guy! He really was really special and I loved Blake with all my heart!
Alex knew Blake growing up and he has just moved back to her home town. He’s been living in Colorado but returns for family reasons. He sends Alex for a loop as she starts recalling their childhood and teenage years – he unsettles her because he makes her “feel”.
He brings something alive in Alex that she thought had died along with Derek. He brings out feelings she doesn’t want to acknowledge. Blake was just what she needed even though Alex herself didn’t realize he was exactly what she needed.
“I don’t think I have felt anything in years”
Gitte: The relationship between Alex and Blake from their childhood was beautiful. The fact that he has harbored this love for her, felt the pain of rejection, albeit unintentional and unbeknownst to Alex when she fell in love with Derek and completely left her best friend at the wayside.
I can’t even say how much this affected me. I actually think at times this became Blake’s story for me. I wanted HIS happy ending more so as he had missed out on one of the most beautiful things in life; love in return.
“…It just really hurt. You meant a lot to me. You were my best friend.” – Blake
“All I could do was watch it happen and hate myself for never saying anything. I should have fought harder for you…” – Blake
Jenny: The story, told through Alex’s eyes and the flashback glimpses we had of her life the 3 years prior really do allow us to connect with her and experience the devastating loss she went through. The scene with her husband’s death so moved me and it was heartbreaking. You really did garner the strength of Alex during this time. Even though it crushed her and nearly destroyed her, you really do connect with her and admire the fact she got through it at all.
Watching Alex put up her walls to protect her heart from Blake and see Blake trying to break down her defenses was handled so well.
At times I did get a bit frustrated with Alex, but in her shoes, I’m not sure how I would have coped. I think I just loved Blake so much and saw how perfect he was for her that I immediately wanted Alex to feel the same. I wanted them to be happy together. I truly wanted it with all my heart because these two, along with those beautiful little girls utterly and completely stole my heart.
Gitte: Truly a beautiful story that has left my heart in a puddle on the floor. Alex worked her way into my heart but Blake truly took a piece of it.
“I feel safe. I feel protected. I feel relief. I feel scared. I feel vulnerable. I feel sure. I feel…. Everything.”
Jenny: Absolutely agree with you Gitte. Such a beautiful story and one I thought about for days after. It really did capture my heart.
“But you’ll never have your happy ending unless you’re brave enough to open the book and start your story”
Initially I was a bit surprised that there was no epilogue, but I was satisfied in the knowledge that there will be another book in this series and I’m looking forward to catching up with my new friends Alex, Blake, Harlow, Trace and the Meyer family because there’s no way I’m not ready to say goodbye to them just yet!On a side note I would like to add that this book so beautifully edited, it was flawless and a pleasure to read.
Gitte:4.5
Jenny: What an absolutely delightful read this was Gitte! I enjoyed every minute of this book. After reading a gut-wrenching book and then not connecting with a couple of others I had previously picked up, this book was just what the doctor ordered! It was such a beautiful heart-warming story and really did give me the reading experience I was looking for at the time. There were so many things I loved about this book. It was moving, it made me laugh, I had a bit of a cry and I just an overall feeling of happiness reading it. The writing was flawless. What more could you want!
Gitte: Oh I absolutely loved this story. I was hooked from page one. What an absolute treat; so beautifully written so flawless and so very poignant. This story is an extremely emotional read about love, loss of a loved one, forgiveness and realising that finding love again after losing your heart is okay.
Jenny: This book about second chances, letting go, moving on, friendships, loyalty and family introduces us to Alex who is a young, once vibrant woman, bringing up three adorable girls following the death of her husband. Somewhere along the way Alex lost sight of herself. She is so devoted to her children and trying to cope with the loss of her husband 3 years earlier that she doesn’t think for one minute she will ever get a chance at love again. She has accepted that her place in life is to care and bring up her daughters.Derek was the love of her life and the thought of having kind of love again is something Alex doesn’t consider is in her future.
Gitte: Alex was an amazing character. She had one of the worst life experiences happen to her and she was left to pick up the broken pieces of her 3 daughters hearts as well as her own, mine broke for her too reading this story.
Alex was strong, courageous, sweet, funny and vulnerable. Her relationship with her daughters was admirable and I have to say those three little girls had me in stitches at times. I completely fell in love with them.
“I love you infinity.” “I love you infinity times infinity”
I loved that Alex had a friend like Harlow. The support, the love, the tough talking, Harlow gave it all. She gave Alex strength and the guidance she needed when her head and heart was out of sync.
Alex needed to know and accept that it is okay to continue life and really live and love again after losing the man you love. Not loved as that love can never be replaced. That will live forever in your heart.
Jenny: I adored Alex. I loved her inner dialogue, her little notes to herself. She warmed me and she really did give me a laugh at time
“I stare at him with the best mommy death stare I can conjure up, and he holds it with no fear. Shit…this stuff always works on the girls”.
The interaction with her daughters was nothing short of delightful. What a great mother Alex was and how lucky they all were to have one another. I have to say these little girls stole the show! They were feisty, funny, cute as buttons and I simply adored them! Alex and her best friend Harlow run their own company together “so we could smoke in our office all day long, consume adult beverages during work hours, and do nothing but giggle and gossip all day” and what a close bond these two share. They’ve been through so much together and Harlow is Alex’s rock and I was so happy Alex had someone like Harlow by her side in those tough times. Any lesser friend would have bailed but Harlow was her lifeline and the bond they share is rock solid. They had a great balance and you really did describe Harlow perfectly Gitte.
Gitte: Now, Blake. Oh wow….I have to say his story touched me so much making me cry, truly. I can’t even put into words how much this amazing, gorgeous, generous and completely perfect man affected me.
Blake has never had the love of his life, experienced it or even lived it. He has watched it from afar. His heart lost without return, patiently waiting for a possible chance, not wishing for it, but there waiting should it ever be able to find its true home. A love stemming from a friendship which went through the years and stayed put. A true love, the honest and pure kind.
“I love you, Alex. I loved you when we were just kids…and I’ve continued to love you every day since.”
“I’ve always wanted this future. I was just waiting on you to catch up.”
Jenny: Oh yes, and then we have Blake! Well, what can I say about Blake. I think you pretty much said it all GG! What a guy! He really was really special and I loved Blake with all my heart!
Alex knew Blake growing up and he has just moved back to her home town. He’s been living in Colorado but returns for family reasons. He sends Alex for a loop as she starts recalling their childhood and teenage years – he unsettles her because he makes her “feel”.
He brings something alive in Alex that she thought had died along with Derek. He brings out feelings she doesn’t want to acknowledge. Blake was just what she needed even though Alex herself didn’t realize he was exactly what she needed.
“I don’t think I have felt anything in years”
Gitte: The relationship between Alex and Blake from their childhood was beautiful. The fact that he has harbored this love for her, felt the pain of rejection, albeit unintentional and unbeknownst to Alex when she fell in love with Derek and completely left her best friend at the wayside.
I can’t even say how much this affected me. I actually think at times this became Blake’s story for me. I wanted HIS happy ending more so as he had missed out on one of the most beautiful things in life; love in return.
“…It just really hurt. You meant a lot to me. You were my best friend.” – Blake
“All I could do was watch it happen and hate myself for never saying anything. I should have fought harder for you…” – Blake
Jenny: The story, told through Alex’s eyes and the flashback glimpses we had of her life the 3 years prior really do allow us to connect with her and experience the devastating loss she went through. The scene with her husband’s death so moved me and it was heartbreaking. You really did garner the strength of Alex during this time. Even though it crushed her and nearly destroyed her, you really do connect with her and admire the fact she got through it at all.
Watching Alex put up her walls to protect her heart from Blake and see Blake trying to break down her defenses was handled so well.
At times I did get a bit frustrated with Alex, but in her shoes, I’m not sure how I would have coped. I think I just loved Blake so much and saw how perfect he was for her that I immediately wanted Alex to feel the same. I wanted them to be happy together. I truly wanted it with all my heart because these two, along with those beautiful little girls utterly and completely stole my heart.
Gitte: Truly a beautiful story that has left my heart in a puddle on the floor. Alex worked her way into my heart but Blake truly took a piece of it.
“I feel safe. I feel protected. I feel relief. I feel scared. I feel vulnerable. I feel sure. I feel…. Everything.”
Jenny: Absolutely agree with you Gitte. Such a beautiful story and one I thought about for days after. It really did capture my heart.
“But you’ll never have your happy ending unless you’re brave enough to open the book and start your story”
Initially I was a bit surprised that there was no epilogue, but I was satisfied in the knowledge that there will be another book in this series and I’m looking forward to catching up with my new friends Alex, Blake, Harlow, Trace and the Meyer family because there’s no way I’m not ready to say goodbye to them just yet!On a side note I would like to add that this book so beautifully edited, it was flawless and a pleasure to read.
August 16, 2014
3.5 stars
This review was posted at Under the Covers
I’m going to be totally honest here about a few things. First, my reason for purchasing this book was solely because I’m a cover ho and I just loved the cover.
The story hooked me from the beginning because it was bittersweet. It stirred up emotions of the what ifs that I think everyone probably has, and some that might be more personal for me. I felt bad for Alex because, even after three years from her husband’s death, she seems to be having a hard time still. Then in walked in Blake, or rode in actually on his bike, and I was smitten.
But as much as I liked the story, there were also things that I felt were not 100% to my liking. So here’s a small list:
I believe self pub authors sometimes suffer from the lack of editing. And I don’t mean just grammar and all that, but the actual content that should be discussed with an editor to see if it drives the story forward. I felt that this book could’ve been cut to a novella if we took out some of the unnecessary scenes, and repetitive words. Not that it wasn’t cute to read about every little detail of Alex’s interaction with her three young daughters, because they were adorable, but there was so much of it, I think it would’ve been ok to cut some out and they still would’ve been adorable.
Alex. Eeeeek. Yes, the heroine got on my nerves sometimes. She gave off really mixed emotions and in the end, I’m not quite sure why Blake would put up with someone like that. It’s not like he came back into town right after her husband’s death. It had been three years. And at least she could’ve shown a minimum of respect and friendship, when she thought it better to be a bitch.
The notes to self. Yeah, they were cute in the beginning, and they were cute when they added an insight into her thoughts. But they started getting annoyed when she KEPT making “notes to self”.
But by the same token, I also loved certain aspects of the story:
How Blake took care of her and has been sort of waiting for her all his life. I love stories about childhood crushes getting their HEA. And this one was extremely sweet since he didn’t think he could ever get that. And Blake was just delicious!
The kids! OMG they were adorable, even when they were a bit much to deal with for my pea brain (there are THREE of them! LOL) but I love to see their love for their mom and then for Blake. And how they worked to bring them together.
Loved the breakfast dates.
This book was sweet and I might’ve shed a tear about Alex and how she faced Derek’s accident. Although it wasn’t the emotional rollercoaster I expected from reading the blurb, I still enjoyed RUNNING ON EMPTY a lot and I will probably continue the series.
Favorite Quote:
“There’s no place I’d rather be on a Sunday morning.”
This review was posted at Under the Covers
I’m going to be totally honest here about a few things. First, my reason for purchasing this book was solely because I’m a cover ho and I just loved the cover.
The story hooked me from the beginning because it was bittersweet. It stirred up emotions of the what ifs that I think everyone probably has, and some that might be more personal for me. I felt bad for Alex because, even after three years from her husband’s death, she seems to be having a hard time still. Then in walked in Blake, or rode in actually on his bike, and I was smitten.
But as much as I liked the story, there were also things that I felt were not 100% to my liking. So here’s a small list:
I believe self pub authors sometimes suffer from the lack of editing. And I don’t mean just grammar and all that, but the actual content that should be discussed with an editor to see if it drives the story forward. I felt that this book could’ve been cut to a novella if we took out some of the unnecessary scenes, and repetitive words. Not that it wasn’t cute to read about every little detail of Alex’s interaction with her three young daughters, because they were adorable, but there was so much of it, I think it would’ve been ok to cut some out and they still would’ve been adorable.
Alex. Eeeeek. Yes, the heroine got on my nerves sometimes. She gave off really mixed emotions and in the end, I’m not quite sure why Blake would put up with someone like that. It’s not like he came back into town right after her husband’s death. It had been three years. And at least she could’ve shown a minimum of respect and friendship, when she thought it better to be a bitch.
The notes to self. Yeah, they were cute in the beginning, and they were cute when they added an insight into her thoughts. But they started getting annoyed when she KEPT making “notes to self”.
But by the same token, I also loved certain aspects of the story:
How Blake took care of her and has been sort of waiting for her all his life. I love stories about childhood crushes getting their HEA. And this one was extremely sweet since he didn’t think he could ever get that. And Blake was just delicious!
The kids! OMG they were adorable, even when they were a bit much to deal with for my pea brain (there are THREE of them! LOL) but I love to see their love for their mom and then for Blake. And how they worked to bring them together.
Loved the breakfast dates.
This book was sweet and I might’ve shed a tear about Alex and how she faced Derek’s accident. Although it wasn’t the emotional rollercoaster I expected from reading the blurb, I still enjoyed RUNNING ON EMPTY a lot and I will probably continue the series.
Favorite Quote:
“There’s no place I’d rather be on a Sunday morning.”
January 15, 2013
"Okay - Rylie, is there anything you want to bring with you?" She walks over to Blake and grabs his hand. "Just Blake!" ❤❤❤❤❤
It's taking me a while to review this book. I can't seem to find the right words. Nothing seems adequate so here goes nothing....
Love, loss, friendship, and second chances --it's all wrapped up in this beautiful book! This story is genuine, heart-wrenching, overwhelming, touching, romantic, funny, scary, real...very REAL.
The author does an outstanding job with the characters. I absolutely adore Alex and her three precious daughters. The girls are zany, clever, and so very beautiful. Rylie is my favorite! She has so much life inside of her tiny little heart! Alex is so strong and she lives for her babies! It's a remarkable love, a great example for all mothers. Hah-low is simply fabulous! Every girl needs a Hah-low in their life! ❤
And then we have Blake Morgan. Oh, Mr. Morgan, you had me at hello! Blake gave me butterflies! He is truly amazing and so darn sexy! I love his charisma. He's charming, yet so genuine! Ahhhh!
It's taking me a while to review this book. I can't seem to find the right words. Nothing seems adequate so here goes nothing....
Love, loss, friendship, and second chances --it's all wrapped up in this beautiful book! This story is genuine, heart-wrenching, overwhelming, touching, romantic, funny, scary, real...very REAL.
The author does an outstanding job with the characters. I absolutely adore Alex and her three precious daughters. The girls are zany, clever, and so very beautiful. Rylie is my favorite! She has so much life inside of her tiny little heart! Alex is so strong and she lives for her babies! It's a remarkable love, a great example for all mothers. Hah-low is simply fabulous! Every girl needs a Hah-low in their life! ❤
And then we have Blake Morgan. Oh, Mr. Morgan, you had me at hello! Blake gave me butterflies! He is truly amazing and so darn sexy! I love his charisma. He's charming, yet so genuine! Ahhhh!
January 3, 2013
This is the first book I've reviewed and I am so proud Running On Empty is my first. L.B Simmons hit this one out of the park.
Alex Meyer is the widow of three wily children. They're her world and everything she does is for them. When Alex loses her husband, Derek she questions her ability to move on and let herself love again. Time passes and while her heart still belongs to Derek, a childhood friend rolls into town (sexy as hell on a motorcycle) *sigh and causes Alex to question her feelings and the way she has been living her life after the loss of her husband.
There will be tears. There will be laughter. But, in the end you will definitely walk away with a few great one liners. Alex is a pro! And so are her daughters.
I loved this book. LOVED! Alex Meyer is a woman I could see myself hanging out with and drinking a beer. She is witty, smart and a devoted mother. A must read. 5+ Stars for Running On Empty.
Alex Meyer is the widow of three wily children. They're her world and everything she does is for them. When Alex loses her husband, Derek she questions her ability to move on and let herself love again. Time passes and while her heart still belongs to Derek, a childhood friend rolls into town (sexy as hell on a motorcycle) *sigh and causes Alex to question her feelings and the way she has been living her life after the loss of her husband.
There will be tears. There will be laughter. But, in the end you will definitely walk away with a few great one liners. Alex is a pro! And so are her daughters.
I loved this book. LOVED! Alex Meyer is a woman I could see myself hanging out with and drinking a beer. She is witty, smart and a devoted mother. A must read. 5+ Stars for Running On Empty.
January 29, 2013
Oh My Goodness!
This is a bring your own box of Kleenex book. I cried and cried. It was wonderful, it was sad, it was sweet, it was bittersweet. It broke my heart and filled me up at the same time.
Growing up Blake and Alex were best friends. Then Derek moved to town and Alex left Blake behind. But Blake continued to love Alex. He never stopped. He walked away from Alex and left her to Derek, because he loved her.
Three years ago Derek died and left Alex with three beautiful girls. She’s been running on empty ever since. She takes care of her three girls and goes through the motions of living life.
Then Blake rides back into her life. And slowly, over time, Alex starts to feel again. The numbness starts to fall away and it’s all because of Blake. But Alex isn’t ready for this. At least that’s what she tells herself. She keeps Blake at arms length. But her girls welcome him in. They recognize that he makes their mom happy and they’re all for her being happy again.
Will Alex let Blake in? Will Alex let herself be happy?
Even though I cried through almost the entire book, I loved the whole thing! It was wonderful. It makes you sit up and take notice that life is short. Live it to the fullest. Grab life by the horns and enjoy it.
This is one of those books that’s powerful and sticks with you long after you put it down. I know I’ll be thinking of it as I crawl into bed with my DH and as I look in on my kids as they sleep at night.
I received a copy of this book from the author in exchange for an honest review.
June 5, 2013
Running on Empty is an AMAZING read! I have not read a book like this is a long time. When you live in the world of YA like I do you tend not to read outside the box but I am so glad I did. I as a mother of three and raising them on my own can relate to this story on so many levels.
Alex is happily married and has three daughters when her husband dies. She is left devastated beyond belief and has no idea what she is going to do and how she is going to survive this. But like all mothers Alex picks herself up and locks down those emotions and lives each day for her children and nothing else. Forgetting how to live and not wanting to get hurt again she distances herself from everyone. That is until the day her best friend Blake comes riding into town with his fat boy Harley bike and those kick ass boots with the buckles!
Blake still remembers Alex and the friendship they shared growing up. Blake has also loved Alex from a far. Now Blake is determined to break down Alex's walls and have her for himself. He wants to take care of her and the girls and he will not take no for an answer. God Blake is a God send but will Alex let her walls down? Will Blake be able to shower her with enough love to make her his? This is a must read book!
Alex is happily married and has three daughters when her husband dies. She is left devastated beyond belief and has no idea what she is going to do and how she is going to survive this. But like all mothers Alex picks herself up and locks down those emotions and lives each day for her children and nothing else. Forgetting how to live and not wanting to get hurt again she distances herself from everyone. That is until the day her best friend Blake comes riding into town with his fat boy Harley bike and those kick ass boots with the buckles!
Blake still remembers Alex and the friendship they shared growing up. Blake has also loved Alex from a far. Now Blake is determined to break down Alex's walls and have her for himself. He wants to take care of her and the girls and he will not take no for an answer. God Blake is a God send but will Alex let her walls down? Will Blake be able to shower her with enough love to make her his? This is a must read book!
November 16, 2012
I really enjoyed this book. The story is touching, funny and really heartfelt. L.B.'s writing style is beautiful and I loved the characters. I actually read the whole thing in two sittings which is saying a lot. I can't wait to read more from this author.
June 18, 2013
Oh wow! Loved it..... Full of emotion. Gave me some belly flip flops. Just a fab story and beautiful writing. X
October 21, 2013
Boring with absolute no chemistry . Also I could not stand the heroine , I would hate her if I was Blake actually....
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