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Even If It Hurts
From USA Today best-selling author Marni Mann comes Even If It Hurts, an emotionally charged contemporary romance. When you have a perfect marriage, only an impossible reconnection could make you risk it all.
OLIVER
When I met her, I couldn’t take my eyes off her. We were so young and so passionate. We studied business in the day and each other’s bodies at night. We always knew it would end with the semester, so we loved hard with no regrets.
LANCE
When I met her, I couldn’t get her off my mind. We were fresh out of college and ready to take on the world. We fit each other like missing puzzle pieces. And just when I thought my life was perfect, it got better. She became my wife.
CHLOE
I met my first love while studying abroad in London. When I moved home, I didn’t think I’d ever fall in love again. Until I met him. The man who became my husband. The one I promised a lifetime to. Then, my first love came back into my life … And I realized that love was bigger than any one man.
OLIVER
When I met her, I couldn’t take my eyes off her. We were so young and so passionate. We studied business in the day and each other’s bodies at night. We always knew it would end with the semester, so we loved hard with no regrets.
LANCE
When I met her, I couldn’t get her off my mind. We were fresh out of college and ready to take on the world. We fit each other like missing puzzle pieces. And just when I thought my life was perfect, it got better. She became my wife.
CHLOE
I met my first love while studying abroad in London. When I moved home, I didn’t think I’d ever fall in love again. Until I met him. The man who became my husband. The one I promised a lifetime to. Then, my first love came back into my life … And I realized that love was bigger than any one man.
310 pages, Kindle Edition
First published January 28, 2020
483 people are currently reading
5659 people want to read
About the author
Marni Mann
58 books6,841 followersUSA Today Bestselling author Marni Mann knew she was going to be a writer since middle school. While other girls her age were daydreaming about teenage pop stars, Marni was fantasizing about penning her first novel. She crafts sexy, titillating stories that weave together her love of darkness, mystery, passion, and human emotions. A New Englander at heart, she now lives in Sarasota, Florida, with her husband and their Yellow Lab. When she’s not nose deep in her laptop, working on her next novel, she’s scouring for chocolate, sipping wine, traveling, or devouring fabulous books.
Visit her at:
WEBSITE: www.MarniSMann.com
FACEBOOK: https://www.facebook.com/MarniMannAuthor
INSTAGRAM: https://instagram.com/marnimann/
NEWSLETTER: http://marnismann.com/e-mail-signup/
Visit her at:
WEBSITE: www.MarniSMann.com
FACEBOOK: https://www.facebook.com/MarniMannAuthor
INSTAGRAM: https://instagram.com/marnimann/
NEWSLETTER: http://marnismann.com/e-mail-signup/
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 715 reviews
September 1, 2023
I’ve never been more mad in my entire fucking life WHAT THE FUUSGAJAGKVZOABZDNN IN AKAHSAJAH???!!!!
I hate the mc so much I have to stare into the unknown for the next few weeks to digest what she did
Spoilers below:
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
First of all she and Oliver had the weirdest insta love (with no love) romance I’ve ever read. How did they meet yesterday and then the next day she just randomly says FOR NO REASON AT ALL “I’m a virgin”… what 😍
Why did you say it like that right after meeting him??
Now their love story was weird and fast and not paced well. Honestly the entire pace of the book doesn’t make any sense…
.
.
.
Now we introduce Lance: the second love interest she cheats on multiple times (and they say romance it dead🤪)
Honestly why the heck did she live a happy live without any consequences?? She cheats on Lance HER HUSBAND with Oliver for 6 months and then leaves Oliver and has kids with Lance??? WHAT IS GOING ON???
AND THEN LANCE NEVER FINDS OUT?????
AND THEN OLIVER IS WEIRDLY OBSESSED WITH HER WHEN HE’S FIFTY AND THEN THE BOOK IS OVER WITH OLIVER BEING SINGLE (thank god)????
I hate the mc so much I have to stare into the unknown for the next few weeks to digest what she did
Spoilers below:
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
First of all she and Oliver had the weirdest insta love (with no love) romance I’ve ever read. How did they meet yesterday and then the next day she just randomly says FOR NO REASON AT ALL “I’m a virgin”… what 😍
Why did you say it like that right after meeting him??
Now their love story was weird and fast and not paced well. Honestly the entire pace of the book doesn’t make any sense…
.
.
.
Now we introduce Lance: the second love interest she cheats on multiple times (and they say romance it dead🤪)
Honestly why the heck did she live a happy live without any consequences?? She cheats on Lance HER HUSBAND with Oliver for 6 months and then leaves Oliver and has kids with Lance??? WHAT IS GOING ON???
AND THEN LANCE NEVER FINDS OUT?????
AND THEN OLIVER IS WEIRDLY OBSESSED WITH HER WHEN HE’S FIFTY AND THEN THE BOOK IS OVER WITH OLIVER BEING SINGLE (thank god)????
January 7, 2020
'EVEN IF IT HURTS' Is a full length, standalone romance novel by Marni Mann
I don't even know how to go about writing up this review. In life I'm a tough cookie to crack, I normally don't wear my emotions on my sleeve, so it takes some hard work from authors to bring those emotions out of me, but as I literally close the last page of this book, tears are falling down my face.
I don't know weither to hug the author or hit her, emotional books are my kryptonite, ones I seek above all else, ones that can make me feel, cry, rant and rave, its what my inner angst whore seeks when it comes to books, which is why I love reading. Books like this one bring me alive!! You question right from wrong, because if it feels right how can it be so wrong?!? LOVE isn't an easy path, it's not love if it doesn't hurt!!
Broken up into four parts: The first part gutted me, first love, first time, first goodbye. The second part mended me, I fell in love. My heart was full. The third part slowly cracked away at my cold stone heart and made me fall in love with a whole new man that wasn't even on my radar. And I realized one thing, I don't do so well with goodbyes. The fourth part brought me to my knees.
Even if it hurts will be a hard limit for many, this book wrung so many emotions out of me, I experienced everything the author threw at me. I inhaled this, I devoured this, I loved this..
And that right there is why this gets a 5 star rating from yours truly.
January 28, 2020
This book is so ....not done.
I don’t know what to say.
The book is BORING.
Only near the end there’s some mild angst. Other than that this book is bland.
Girl meets guy named Oliver.
He is charming. She is virgin.
They spend time together. She gives her virginity to him. They date. Everything is happy happy.
I don’t know what to say.
The book is BORING.
Only near the end there’s some mild angst. Other than that this book is bland.
Girl meets guy named Oliver.
He is charming. She is virgin.
They spend time together. She gives her virginity to him. They date. Everything is happy happy.
January 22, 2020
-2.5-
First of all I have to say, I'm okay to read this particular topic. In fact I LOVED these books so hard...
For example;
Arsen: A Broken Love Story
The Ground Rules (The Rule Breakers, #1)
Heartbreak Warfare
So why I didn't loved this book? I simply didn't feel the connection "that love" between Oliver & Chloe. I loved only Lance in this story. <3 Also everything happened so fast in this book... Normally I didn't bother too much if there are strong feelings between the characters but in this book I didn't believe their true love very convincing. Also --->
Anyway this book won't affect my admiration to Ms.Mann. I look forward to read her new books soon. <3
ARC provided in exchange for an honest review. ❤❤❤
First of all I have to say, I'm okay to read this particular topic. In fact I LOVED these books so hard...
For example;
Arsen: A Broken Love Story
The Ground Rules (The Rule Breakers, #1)
Heartbreak Warfare
So why I didn't loved this book? I simply didn't feel the connection "that love" between Oliver & Chloe. I loved only Lance in this story. <3 Also everything happened so fast in this book... Normally I didn't bother too much if there are strong feelings between the characters but in this book I didn't believe their true love very convincing. Also --->
Anyway this book won't affect my admiration to Ms.Mann. I look forward to read her new books soon. <3
ARC provided in exchange for an honest review. ❤❤❤
January 6, 2020
I received the book.
I read the book.
Non stop till 2 am.
and I tossed and turned the whole night!!
“I’m in so deep; I’m drowning before I even get wet.”
I'm still hungover, my mind is still hopping between Amsterdam and Sarasota (nice touch). It's an unstoppable roller coaster of emotions and you won't be able to get off. Endure with grimace and tears in your eyes, cause the story will move you deeply.
Marni is on a streak, writing one heart rendering book after another. And she's on a mission of ruining cities for me
Boston...NYC....London...Amsterdam!
I've always believed she's an excellent example of a versatile author, attempting and mastering every Genre, every trope. Her innate ability to push boundaries and challenge herself has come to fruition with Even If It Hurts
The story's a see-saw of relationships, resting on the fulcrum of agonizing dilemma.
All three characters are deeply and devotedly in love, but there's a fourth character which is the Puppet Master - LOVE itself
The Magic of LOVE
“People disappear when there’s magic involved.”
It's bigger than them all! LOVE has a say in the placement of characters, their behaviors and their destiny. All three are ruled by heart, follow their heart and ultimately have to crush it by their own hands. Very honest, albeit cruel sentiments embellish the story. It's as close to reality dose you'll ever get, IMHO. The plot is simple yet intricate, mirroring real life. Narration is flawless and smooth, her writing has always been superb, but this one stretches a bit further into exceptionalism.
“Time has certainly never been in our favor, has it?”
“Not since I met you.”
“Always slipping away every time I try to grasp you.”
“That’s because I’m not good at good-byes.”
All her characters are very easy to fall in love with which made me sympathize and relate to Chloe's conundrum.
I fell in love with Oliver's Charm, his unshakable charisma. I adored Lance's focused & undivided support and love. And when Nina asked me a controversial and difficult question- #TeamLance or #TeamOliver?
I didn't hesitate even for a split second about the answer, very clear in my head. And I believe it should be the norm in every love triangle...I'm #TeamChloe!!
I'm not worried WHO will love her the most, I'm more concerned about who SHE will love more.
It's HER choice, HER happiness and HER life and she should be able to make dubious choices, suffer the consequences too and learn from them. It's called Growth!
And let NOBODY judge her, paint her scarlet and Choke her with tightening cape of guilt.!!
It's a HUMAN story about mere mortals, driven by passion, lust and love. The people aren't demi-gods, they're certainly not perfect. they make mistakes, own upto it and try to make amends. Sometimes they succeed, sometimes they not, But that's life.
I fell in love with Oliver. His boyish charm, sexy brit accent, his charisma is a magnet pulling Chloe and me in his field. Lance was the stable influence in the story, his stolidness and unadulterated loyalty and devotion for Chloe is what a woman needs in her life. His genuineness had an tranquil aura and all his scenes were treated with warmth and serenity.
Marni has unapologetically portrayed the beauty and ugliness of love unfiltered. No rosy tints to hide the cracks in the relationship, no easy way out possibilities by creating faux martyrs or justifications for questionable choices. She let's the characters speak for themselves, lead their broken lives and let marni just note everything down and present to us.
A complicated story about Tangled lies, breached dreams and mulched hearts
It's beauty lies in the stark honesty, and brutal tug of war between Want and Need.
The ending is all a matter of perspective. How you will feel is what you see and what's your view, But one thing is definite, It'll broaden your vision, stretch your heart to make space for acceptance and give you a shot of compassion
Life is all about making wrong decisions and if you're lucky, a rare right one. Cést La Vie🤷♀️
When you start the book, open your mind, flex your morals and check your judgements at the door!
5 stars for setting your love free
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I read the book.
Non stop till 2 am.
and I tossed and turned the whole night!!
“I’m in so deep; I’m drowning before I even get wet.”
I'm still hungover, my mind is still hopping between Amsterdam and Sarasota (nice touch). It's an unstoppable roller coaster of emotions and you won't be able to get off. Endure with grimace and tears in your eyes, cause the story will move you deeply.
Marni is on a streak, writing one heart rendering book after another. And she's on a mission of ruining cities for me
Boston...NYC....London...Amsterdam!
I've always believed she's an excellent example of a versatile author, attempting and mastering every Genre, every trope. Her innate ability to push boundaries and challenge herself has come to fruition with Even If It Hurts
The story's a see-saw of relationships, resting on the fulcrum of agonizing dilemma.
All three characters are deeply and devotedly in love, but there's a fourth character which is the Puppet Master - LOVE itself
The Magic of LOVE
“People disappear when there’s magic involved.”
It's bigger than them all! LOVE has a say in the placement of characters, their behaviors and their destiny. All three are ruled by heart, follow their heart and ultimately have to crush it by their own hands. Very honest, albeit cruel sentiments embellish the story. It's as close to reality dose you'll ever get, IMHO. The plot is simple yet intricate, mirroring real life. Narration is flawless and smooth, her writing has always been superb, but this one stretches a bit further into exceptionalism.
“Time has certainly never been in our favor, has it?”
“Not since I met you.”
“Always slipping away every time I try to grasp you.”
“That’s because I’m not good at good-byes.”
All her characters are very easy to fall in love with which made me sympathize and relate to Chloe's conundrum.
I fell in love with Oliver's Charm, his unshakable charisma. I adored Lance's focused & undivided support and love. And when Nina asked me a controversial and difficult question- #TeamLance or #TeamOliver?
I didn't hesitate even for a split second about the answer, very clear in my head. And I believe it should be the norm in every love triangle...I'm #TeamChloe!!
I'm not worried WHO will love her the most, I'm more concerned about who SHE will love more.
It's HER choice, HER happiness and HER life and she should be able to make dubious choices, suffer the consequences too and learn from them. It's called Growth!
And let NOBODY judge her, paint her scarlet and Choke her with tightening cape of guilt.!!
It's a HUMAN story about mere mortals, driven by passion, lust and love. The people aren't demi-gods, they're certainly not perfect. they make mistakes, own upto it and try to make amends. Sometimes they succeed, sometimes they not, But that's life.
I fell in love with Oliver. His boyish charm, sexy brit accent, his charisma is a magnet pulling Chloe and me in his field. Lance was the stable influence in the story, his stolidness and unadulterated loyalty and devotion for Chloe is what a woman needs in her life. His genuineness had an tranquil aura and all his scenes were treated with warmth and serenity.
Marni has unapologetically portrayed the beauty and ugliness of love unfiltered. No rosy tints to hide the cracks in the relationship, no easy way out possibilities by creating faux martyrs or justifications for questionable choices. She let's the characters speak for themselves, lead their broken lives and let marni just note everything down and present to us.
A complicated story about Tangled lies, breached dreams and mulched hearts
It's beauty lies in the stark honesty, and brutal tug of war between Want and Need.
The ending is all a matter of perspective. How you will feel is what you see and what's your view, But one thing is definite, It'll broaden your vision, stretch your heart to make space for acceptance and give you a shot of compassion
Life is all about making wrong decisions and if you're lucky, a rare right one. Cést La Vie🤷♀️
When you start the book, open your mind, flex your morals and check your judgements at the door!
5 stars for setting your love free
#BookBistroBlogApproved
Follow me on:
[email protected]
https://Twitter.com/BookBistro
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https://bookbistroblogger.blogspot.com/
https://www.facebook.com/groups/BookB...
January 27, 2020
"...kissing you once would never be enough."
Even if it Hurts is a contemporary romance with passion, love, and loss. Chloe is a young woman who is at the beginning of what promises to be a great life. Traveling abroad for school finds her in the arms of her first love, Oliver. Oliver represents everything young and free and Chloe and Oliver share a passionate few months together. When Chloe returns to the states, Oliver and her drift apart and she is forced to move on from that time in her life. Chloe continues to find success professionally and eventually finds the strength to move forward with her life. Lance is a successful businessman who falls hard and fast for Chloe and literally sweeps her off of her feet. Chloe and Lance find happiness together until a certain person from Chloe's past enters back into her life and all of a sudden everything changes.
"Are you going to give all of that up."Told in Chloe's POV, Even If It Hurts explores what happens when a woman finds herself torn between two loves. Life is constantly changing and if you aren't careful it is easy to make the wrong move and inadvertently change your life forever. For Chloe the struggle was intense, and yet I didn't feel conflicted at all for her. I had a hard time understanding her actions and even harder time accepting certain elements of the outcome.
"They were a gift, and we both knew that."Overall, Even if it Hurts didn't actually hurt (for me) but instead made me uncomfortable and sad for all three characters involved. The subject matter isn't my favorite to explore and yet, as always, Ms. Mann offers enough smoking hot steam to keep me entertained. In the least, I have confirmed that a trip to Amsterdam is an absolute must-do on the bucket list!
✿This is an (F)BR with my girls Loyda, CC, and WAR!!!!!✿
✿ARC graciously provided in exchange for an honest review!✿
For more reviews/reveals/giveaways visit:
January 28, 2020
❤️5 STARS ❤️
For one more time Marni left me speechless! This book was absolutely fantastic, I was hooked and intrigued and I just couldn’t get enough of it! This is another masterpiece!It was intense and full of emotions! The characters rocked this story!
“I’m in so deep; I’m drowning before I even get wet.”
This is a complicated story that you can’t stop yourself from falling in love with all the characters!The story was realistic and original!
The writing was powerful and it touch me in so many ways! Definitely one of the best books I read so far for this year! Get ready for an emotional roller coaster!
For one more time Marni left me speechless! This book was absolutely fantastic, I was hooked and intrigued and I just couldn’t get enough of it! This is another masterpiece!It was intense and full of emotions! The characters rocked this story!
“I’m in so deep; I’m drowning before I even get wet.”
This is a complicated story that you can’t stop yourself from falling in love with all the characters!The story was realistic and original!
The writing was powerful and it touch me in so many ways! Definitely one of the best books I read so far for this year! Get ready for an emotional roller coaster!
January 24, 2020
I’ve said this before and I’ll say it again. Marni Mann can write her a**off!!! Whatever you’re in the mood for, she’s going to give it to you and she’s going to make you feel every last word as if it’s been imprinted on you.
Chloe has had the privilege of falling in love with two men at different stages in her life. One became a first love that showed her what it’s like to have passion and to be worshipped in a little amount of time, and the other love showed her the world and what it’s like to be treated like a Queen. Two loves, two different lifetimes, one unforgettable reunion and a moment that can shatter a marriage.
Even It Hurts will bring out the love, frustration and even the anxiety in anyone that reads this book. It was beautiful at times while skirting on the danger of being unforgivable because of the characters. This book is not everyone and depending on my state of mind, I myself avoid these types of books sometimes because I know that one or another, heartbreak is surely around the corner.
I won’t even lie to you and tell you that I loved this story from beginning to the end because I didn’t. I hated some of these characters decisions and that made me dangerously frustrated at times. But you know what I did feel ? I felt the love and the pain. I felt the indescribable loss of something more while mourning a past for a few moments. I felt the hope for new beginnings and I appreciated the journey that this author took in bringing these characters to life. It was not easy at times but I can happily say that if I had to read this all over again, I would. This is what a great writer does and Marni Mann is no different.
September 1, 2022
Major Spoiler Warning ⛔️
This book definitely, 100000% just not for me. The clownery here omg made my blood boil
So Oliver (H) and Chloe (h) meet in New England for the first time, as Chloe moves to study there just for one semester. They literally just met and all they do is have sex.
It was the typical ”I don’t really do this” “I’m also a virgin” “I’m not normally that kind of a girl but I’m horny now so just take my virginity you strange guy I recently just met”
Since they were having sex all the time, I was basically just skimming through the chapters, which basically contained contents like
“sweet girl”
“tell me how it feels”
“I want to lick you”
Until her semester is up and she had to leave.
They still promise to stay in touch but she see’s a picture of Olive with another girl and removes him from everywhere, including her life. Okay so then she meets Lance, her CURRENT HUSBAND who after one date became her everything “Oh Lanceee” .
But then years later she meets Oliver again.
His face bent to mine, his beard brushing my cheek as he kissed it. The sensation of his whiskers on my skin was the strangest feeling, and I could recall it so easily. And with the closeness came a whiff of his scent, the leather that I remembered so well. And the lust.
Ummmm Chloe what about Lance??
”I’m married, Oliver. This is fucked. I can’t do it. I love my husband, and I can’t do this to him … to us.”
But hunny you still do it. Even AFTER you realized that you STILL love your husband even after cheating on him multiple times. But guys that’s not even the best part, my all time favorite scene from this entire is when Chloe meets her husband after all the cheating she realizes that she loves him a lot and can’t hurt him anymore, this wonder human being goes to Oliver, fucks him, says she loves him and then just leaves him to go be with Lance.
Once that sinks in, the cherry on the top of this situation is that she never even tells Lance about her affair. She ended up having 3 kids with him, living a happy life while that poor guy, thinking his wife maintained their vows, didn’t even know what she did.
And then the other guy, who I wasn’t a fan of at first but now feel extremely bad for, as he was just chewed up like a gum and thrown away without a second glance. Oliver never got married and even in his 50’s he stalked Chloe on Instagram. Not that he was not seeing any other women. He just never loved them the same way as Chloe as he could never fall out in love with her in the first place.
This book definitely, 100000% just not for me. The clownery here omg made my blood boil
So Oliver (H) and Chloe (h) meet in New England for the first time, as Chloe moves to study there just for one semester. They literally just met and all they do is have sex.
It was the typical ”I don’t really do this” “I’m also a virgin” “I’m not normally that kind of a girl but I’m horny now so just take my virginity you strange guy I recently just met”
Since they were having sex all the time, I was basically just skimming through the chapters, which basically contained contents like
“sweet girl”
“tell me how it feels”
“I want to lick you”
Until her semester is up and she had to leave.
They still promise to stay in touch but she see’s a picture of Olive with another girl and removes him from everywhere, including her life. Okay so then she meets Lance, her CURRENT HUSBAND who after one date became her everything “Oh Lanceee” .
But then years later she meets Oliver again.
His face bent to mine, his beard brushing my cheek as he kissed it. The sensation of his whiskers on my skin was the strangest feeling, and I could recall it so easily. And with the closeness came a whiff of his scent, the leather that I remembered so well. And the lust.
Ummmm Chloe what about Lance??
”I’m married, Oliver. This is fucked. I can’t do it. I love my husband, and I can’t do this to him … to us.”
But hunny you still do it. Even AFTER you realized that you STILL love your husband even after cheating on him multiple times. But guys that’s not even the best part, my all time favorite scene from this entire is when Chloe meets her husband after all the cheating she realizes that she loves him a lot and can’t hurt him anymore, this wonder human being goes to Oliver, fucks him, says she loves him and then just leaves him to go be with Lance.
Once that sinks in, the cherry on the top of this situation is that she never even tells Lance about her affair. She ended up having 3 kids with him, living a happy life while that poor guy, thinking his wife maintained their vows, didn’t even know what she did.
And then the other guy, who I wasn’t a fan of at first but now feel extremely bad for, as he was just chewed up like a gum and thrown away without a second glance. Oliver never got married and even in his 50’s he stalked Chloe on Instagram. Not that he was not seeing any other women. He just never loved them the same way as Chloe as he could never fall out in love with her in the first place.
January 19, 2020
Genre: Contemporary Romance
Type: Standalone
POV: First Person - Female
Rating:
Chloe Kennedy’s first love was a whirlwind romance while studying abroad. Oliver Bennett gave her a lot of her firsts but their relationship was always meant to be temporary. When Lance Hamilton came into her life, she was ready for a future with him. But no one could predict the future no matter how well it was planned.
I always appreciate it when authors are willing to take risks in telling their stories. This book touched one of the most sensitive subjects for a lot of Romance readers, but it’s actually among my favorite types of books. I loved and understood the circumstances that were explored in the story. However, I needed deeper connections. For me, certain things happened too fast and too easy, making the characters’ actions and consequences less convincing/impactful.
I liked both of the male characters and I had my favorite right from the beginning. The author never failed when it comes to sexual chemistry, which was palpable and intense in this one.
Even If It Hurts is a story of making life-changing choices. It would appeal to readers who enjoy a sexy romance with doses of angst.
🔹💔🔹 . . . (F)BR with Twinsie CC, Lo & Liz . . . 🔹💔🔹
For more reviews/reveals/giveaways visit:
Type: Standalone
POV: First Person - Female
Rating:
Chloe Kennedy’s first love was a whirlwind romance while studying abroad. Oliver Bennett gave her a lot of her firsts but their relationship was always meant to be temporary. When Lance Hamilton came into her life, she was ready for a future with him. But no one could predict the future no matter how well it was planned.
I always appreciate it when authors are willing to take risks in telling their stories. This book touched one of the most sensitive subjects for a lot of Romance readers, but it’s actually among my favorite types of books. I loved and understood the circumstances that were explored in the story. However, I needed deeper connections. For me, certain things happened too fast and too easy, making the characters’ actions and consequences less convincing/impactful.
Because this conversation didn’t feel real. It felt like a fairy tale. One I wanted to live in forever.
I liked both of the male characters and I had my favorite right from the beginning. The author never failed when it comes to sexual chemistry, which was palpable and intense in this one.
Even If It Hurts is a story of making life-changing choices. It would appeal to readers who enjoy a sexy romance with doses of angst.
🔹💔🔹 . . . (F)BR with Twinsie CC, Lo & Liz . . . 🔹💔🔹
For more reviews/reveals/giveaways visit:
January 31, 2020
REVIEW: 5 Heartbreaking Stars
"I should have known, kissing you once would never be enough."
There are only a handful of books that I've been able to open up and feel an immediate emotional connection to within the first two paragraphs. Any author that can emote a story so heavily with just their words is an author that’s going to give me a story I want to explore deeper. A couple I know I need to meet. A love I desperately need to experience. That’s exactly what I got with Even if it Hurts by Marni Mann. Immediately upon jumping in, her words painted a picture as an amazing love emerged. Absolutely breathtaking.
But also heartbreaking.
You know those books we all feel so lucky to fall into? The ones that tell a story that catches our breath and moves our hearts? Well, it was my turn. I fell and I fell hard. The love in this book was one that spanned years, surpassed logic, and defied common sense of the heart and mind. But that can't and won't negate the intensity of the topic at hand, nor will it go down easily with others.
I realize that many people are going to struggle with this one, and rightfully so - it's not an easy subject to accept, but I also know it’s not my story to judge. It’s my chance to live and feel emotions that were so extraordinarily told within a heart that was tangled up between two men, and I very definitely did. I liked that it wasn't black and white. I liked that it wasn't easily spelled out. I loved that it was honest emotions fighting moral responsibility. That internal battle that pulled at my heartstrings and lead me through a very emotional and passionate story wasn't told with ease, but with a pain that radiated throughout the pages. This one hurt my heart. I felt the turmoil. I had tears in my eyes at one point. It wasn't an easy journey, but it was an impactful one.
I got completely caught up watching Chloe discover not only a new world, but discovering love in it's purest form as well. Unhindered and without borders, love can make your eyes dance and your heart skip a beat. That's exactly how I felt as I watched Chloe fall in love for the first time. When her circumstances changed, which added a new dynamic to her story, that allowed me to witness an emotion that I've never personally known as her heart struggled to gain purchase on what was right for her. That journey was what it was all about, and I feel like Mann nailed it with this story. Emotionally heavy, but superb in every way.
Having said that, this is exactly why a triangle is my favorite trope. It is heartbreaking. It is going to piss people off and cause some very lively discussion (my favorite part!!). But I love the exploration of a love that isn't easily explained. Hearts held captive by a love that is more powerful than they are? Yes, please!! Give me a love the characters are powerless to stop any day of the week. I want that hiccup in my breath. I want that lurch in my chest. I want that drop in the pit of my stomach. It is a polarizing topic, but that’s why I enjoy it so much. There is so much to discover about this type of love....what pushes someone to their emotional wits' end? Why does the heart fight logic? I love that Marni Mann explored this issue with the depth that she did.
Her characters were relatable and I connected easily with them individually; all showing a growth and a depth that made them equally perfect in their own right.
Oliver - fun, loving, sweet, charming, caring, the most perfect smile to give an air of comfort. He had me smiling so much, but he also had me melting in my seat as I watched him strip down his emotions and bare himself with an intensity that would easily keep me planted. He had my heart the minute he smiled and whispered in her ear from behind, giving me all the goosebumps and giggles.
Lance - alpha, mysterious, deep, impatient, strong. He knew what he wanted and had no problems going after it, no matter the consequences. He also had everything at his fingertips and spared no expense in spoiling Chloe, which allowed for a very fast and carefree relationship without a worry in the world. It lent an air of freedom from the heaviness she was dealing with. An undeniable security in a love that was strong.
Chloe - determined, smart, beautiful, detailed. Living this book through her vantage point allowed me an insight into her thinking and her heart, so when I saw her struggle - I struggled too. I read this entire book like I was put in her heart and her mind.... so I felt that same pain. I was conflicted like she was. I was living in her world, spectator or not, but I know I felt every facet of this book.
It was all about getting into these characters' heads, their emotions, and feeling that anxiety that came with decisions that needed to be made and I will admit, they were not easy decisions. I feel like this story was emotionally driven and that never let up. I felt and understood the pull as well as the anger for the actions taken. It was written so well and I felt every single thing. It’s these types of reads that make me scream from the rooftops because the discussion that follows is one that is so impassioned and intense. I’m not here to excuse actions. I’m here to understand emotions. I’m here to feel the decisions and the repercussions.
It was romantic and exciting.
It was amazing but heartbreaking.
It was sensual and hot.
It was brutal but genuine.
It was sexy and tantalizing.
It was realistic but devastating.
It was perfection.
Beautiful(ly) torture(some). I love when a book moves me like this and makes me feel as much as I did. This was nothing short of amazing for me and is sitting as a Top Favorite for 2020 already. This will be recommended often as a Must Read. Marni Mann is fast becoming one of my go-to authors for truthful, emotionally charged, life changing stories. I don't think this story will ever leave me...
"I don't like missing you, Chloe."
~BEE
PURCHASE: https://amzn.to/31et1gz
Affiliate link
Giveaway listed on blog review: http://bit.ly/38PTbsC
"I should have known, kissing you once would never be enough."
*~* SPOILER FREE REVIEW *~*
There are only a handful of books that I've been able to open up and feel an immediate emotional connection to within the first two paragraphs. Any author that can emote a story so heavily with just their words is an author that’s going to give me a story I want to explore deeper. A couple I know I need to meet. A love I desperately need to experience. That’s exactly what I got with Even if it Hurts by Marni Mann. Immediately upon jumping in, her words painted a picture as an amazing love emerged. Absolutely breathtaking.
But also heartbreaking.
You know those books we all feel so lucky to fall into? The ones that tell a story that catches our breath and moves our hearts? Well, it was my turn. I fell and I fell hard. The love in this book was one that spanned years, surpassed logic, and defied common sense of the heart and mind. But that can't and won't negate the intensity of the topic at hand, nor will it go down easily with others.
I realize that many people are going to struggle with this one, and rightfully so - it's not an easy subject to accept, but I also know it’s not my story to judge. It’s my chance to live and feel emotions that were so extraordinarily told within a heart that was tangled up between two men, and I very definitely did. I liked that it wasn't black and white. I liked that it wasn't easily spelled out. I loved that it was honest emotions fighting moral responsibility. That internal battle that pulled at my heartstrings and lead me through a very emotional and passionate story wasn't told with ease, but with a pain that radiated throughout the pages. This one hurt my heart. I felt the turmoil. I had tears in my eyes at one point. It wasn't an easy journey, but it was an impactful one.
I got completely caught up watching Chloe discover not only a new world, but discovering love in it's purest form as well. Unhindered and without borders, love can make your eyes dance and your heart skip a beat. That's exactly how I felt as I watched Chloe fall in love for the first time. When her circumstances changed, which added a new dynamic to her story, that allowed me to witness an emotion that I've never personally known as her heart struggled to gain purchase on what was right for her. That journey was what it was all about, and I feel like Mann nailed it with this story. Emotionally heavy, but superb in every way.
Having said that, this is exactly why a triangle is my favorite trope. It is heartbreaking. It is going to piss people off and cause some very lively discussion (my favorite part!!). But I love the exploration of a love that isn't easily explained. Hearts held captive by a love that is more powerful than they are? Yes, please!! Give me a love the characters are powerless to stop any day of the week. I want that hiccup in my breath. I want that lurch in my chest. I want that drop in the pit of my stomach. It is a polarizing topic, but that’s why I enjoy it so much. There is so much to discover about this type of love....what pushes someone to their emotional wits' end? Why does the heart fight logic? I love that Marni Mann explored this issue with the depth that she did.
Her characters were relatable and I connected easily with them individually; all showing a growth and a depth that made them equally perfect in their own right.
Oliver - fun, loving, sweet, charming, caring, the most perfect smile to give an air of comfort. He had me smiling so much, but he also had me melting in my seat as I watched him strip down his emotions and bare himself with an intensity that would easily keep me planted. He had my heart the minute he smiled and whispered in her ear from behind, giving me all the goosebumps and giggles.
Lance - alpha, mysterious, deep, impatient, strong. He knew what he wanted and had no problems going after it, no matter the consequences. He also had everything at his fingertips and spared no expense in spoiling Chloe, which allowed for a very fast and carefree relationship without a worry in the world. It lent an air of freedom from the heaviness she was dealing with. An undeniable security in a love that was strong.
Chloe - determined, smart, beautiful, detailed. Living this book through her vantage point allowed me an insight into her thinking and her heart, so when I saw her struggle - I struggled too. I read this entire book like I was put in her heart and her mind.... so I felt that same pain. I was conflicted like she was. I was living in her world, spectator or not, but I know I felt every facet of this book.
It was all about getting into these characters' heads, their emotions, and feeling that anxiety that came with decisions that needed to be made and I will admit, they were not easy decisions. I feel like this story was emotionally driven and that never let up. I felt and understood the pull as well as the anger for the actions taken. It was written so well and I felt every single thing. It’s these types of reads that make me scream from the rooftops because the discussion that follows is one that is so impassioned and intense. I’m not here to excuse actions. I’m here to understand emotions. I’m here to feel the decisions and the repercussions.
It was romantic and exciting.
It was amazing but heartbreaking.
It was sensual and hot.
It was brutal but genuine.
It was sexy and tantalizing.
It was realistic but devastating.
It was perfection.
Beautiful(ly) torture(some). I love when a book moves me like this and makes me feel as much as I did. This was nothing short of amazing for me and is sitting as a Top Favorite for 2020 already. This will be recommended often as a Must Read. Marni Mann is fast becoming one of my go-to authors for truthful, emotionally charged, life changing stories. I don't think this story will ever leave me...
"I don't like missing you, Chloe."
~BEE
PURCHASE: https://amzn.to/31et1gz
Affiliate link
Giveaway listed on blog review: http://bit.ly/38PTbsC
June 26, 2021
I love a good triangle, but this one was just so disappointing. I have to feel the angst and emotion of both couples, and in this one there wasn't a really connection between Oliver and Chloe beyond a physical one for me. She was so young and Oliver was her first, so sure she felt something for him. But when she's happily married and madly in love and talking kids with her husband??? What is the appeal of Oliver? Especially when you still don't really talk about anything substantial?? I need to not be able to choose between the guys and I usually like it if the heroine admits neither relationship is perfect and that's a reason why she can't choose. There literally wasn't a problem with her relationship with Lance. And there's definitely cheating that I felt happened for no reason. So I really didn't like this one. And the way the ending wrapped up made this entire book pointless.
February 9, 2020
This is a book about first loves, last loves, and what happens when they collide. 💥
I must point out that I really liked the first half of the book, about Chloe and Oliver's first love and after, about her amazing marriage to Lance... But then - I just didn't feel the big dilemma. 😬
I was hoping to get upset, excited, angry - like I felt in similar books, but it just didn't happen...
The characters' actions were very mechanical, quick, illogical and were written without any emotions...
And the end? worst lesson EVER. 😱😱😱
For me, this book wasn't bad - but it wasn't great either.
I must point out that I really liked the first half of the book, about Chloe and Oliver's first love and after, about her amazing marriage to Lance... But then - I just didn't feel the big dilemma. 😬
I was hoping to get upset, excited, angry - like I felt in similar books, but it just didn't happen...
The characters' actions were very mechanical, quick, illogical and were written without any emotions...
And the end? worst lesson EVER. 😱😱😱
For me, this book wasn't bad - but it wasn't great either.
January 19, 2020
3.5 ★
While studying abroad for an internship, Chloe Kennedy meets Oliver Bennett, a fellow student and Londoner. During this time, Chloe wants to experience all the firsts. With Oliver, all the pieces click for Chloe until the parameters change and Lance Hamilton enters her life.
Divided into four parts, the narrative separates Chloe’s life into different stages where significant life events occur throughout the timeline. Told mostly from Chloe’s perspective, the intent is to experience the range of choices and emotions she feels from a junior at university to a married woman.
In starting this book, I knew full well what the theme would be and expected the intensity of feelings associated with it. While there were many steamy moments, much happened quickly and the more difficult aspects were left unexplored. As such, Chloe’s choices felt one dimensional and her ultimate decision lacked courage that could have reconciled the past. For me, there was a major lack of connection with the characters. That said, I like how the author chose to explore this theme, as controversial as it may be in the romance world, I just wish it was better executed.
Even if it Hurts is a story about how choices, love and pain can sustain over time.
*An ARC was provided in exchange for an honest review.*
*This was a (F)BR with Twinsie Hawkey, Lonestar Liz and Loyda!*
For more reviews/reveals/giveaways visit:
While studying abroad for an internship, Chloe Kennedy meets Oliver Bennett, a fellow student and Londoner. During this time, Chloe wants to experience all the firsts. With Oliver, all the pieces click for Chloe until the parameters change and Lance Hamilton enters her life.
“And no one who has made me want to stick around for too long … like you.”
Divided into four parts, the narrative separates Chloe’s life into different stages where significant life events occur throughout the timeline. Told mostly from Chloe’s perspective, the intent is to experience the range of choices and emotions she feels from a junior at university to a married woman.
“Sometimes you have to leave for a while to remember why you fell in love in the first place.”
In starting this book, I knew full well what the theme would be and expected the intensity of feelings associated with it. While there were many steamy moments, much happened quickly and the more difficult aspects were left unexplored. As such, Chloe’s choices felt one dimensional and her ultimate decision lacked courage that could have reconciled the past. For me, there was a major lack of connection with the characters. That said, I like how the author chose to explore this theme, as controversial as it may be in the romance world, I just wish it was better executed.
Even if it Hurts is a story about how choices, love and pain can sustain over time.
*An ARC was provided in exchange for an honest review.*
*This was a (F)BR with Twinsie Hawkey, Lonestar Liz and Loyda!*
For more reviews/reveals/giveaways visit:
March 21, 2020
I know when I pick up Miss Mann book, i am bracing myself for sensitive issue. Affair is one of them. After all, this is the author who brought us Lover.
Even If It Hurts, however does not have that same appeal with Lover. While listening to audio book, I found it hard to symphatize with Chloe. She is a very child like character.
Another thing is during Chloe and Oliver story, what is actually their connection aside from sexual attraction? Nothing. O am disapppointed with Miss Mann that she did not enrich the connection between tje characters. The same thing happens during Chloe and Lance story. Bland.
Without the deeper emotional connection, I can not really connect with Chloe, even after author's note at the end.
The idea of the story is good. However tje execution of the story is lacking deeper conmection between the characters.
3 stars
Even If It Hurts, however does not have that same appeal with Lover. While listening to audio book, I found it hard to symphatize with Chloe. She is a very child like character.
Another thing is during Chloe and Oliver story, what is actually their connection aside from sexual attraction? Nothing. O am disapppointed with Miss Mann that she did not enrich the connection between tje characters. The same thing happens during Chloe and Lance story. Bland.
Without the deeper emotional connection, I can not really connect with Chloe, even after author's note at the end.
The idea of the story is good. However tje execution of the story is lacking deeper conmection between the characters.
3 stars
avoid
September 1, 2022Self note avoid.
The h is the cheater. She cheats on her hub/H with her ex and the H never finds out.
The h is the cheater. She cheats on her hub/H with her ex and the H never finds out.
January 29, 2020
Chloe meets Oliver when she moves from Maine to London to study for six months. A whirlwind love stirs up between them and the connection they have is instant. However, they both knew it would only ever be a short term thing, there was a time limit on her stay in the UK and it is highly unlikely they will ever see each other again. Oliver will always be fondly remembered by Chloe as being her first love, her first everything and you never forget people like that.
When Chloe returns to Maine she is absolutely heartbroken over what she has lost with Ollie, after a few months the communication between them dwindles and she knows it is time to bank the memories to move forward with her life. Holding onto hope of ever seeing him again is pointless. About a year later Chloe meets Lance.
Chloe had thrown herself into her job, working ridiculous hours, mainly to get ahead but it also initially helped distract her from thinking about what she had left behind in the UK. When she agrees to a night out with her best friend Molly she had no expectations but sometimes that is the best way for something unexpected to happen. This is when Molly meets Lance, a gorgeous, successful businessman who very quickly becomes completely taken with Chloe.
A whirlwind romance between them is soon sealed by marriage and they have a wonderful time together. Lance is attentive, virile and very sexy. He loves and adores Chloe. She too feels the same way about Lance, he is her forever and she is excited about their future together.
When Chloe is offered the opportunity to work on a project in the Netherlands she is reluctant to leave Lance. She would be going back and forth, spending long periods of time away from him. However, Lance is proud of Chloe and insists she takes the offer. The last person she ever expected to see in Amsterdam is Oliver, a very single Oliver. Shit.
Chloe has temptation thrown in her path and choices to make. Will she make the right ones though? Nothing like an angsty story that pushes the boundaries and jars my moral compass a wee bit!
When Chloe returns to Maine she is absolutely heartbroken over what she has lost with Ollie, after a few months the communication between them dwindles and she knows it is time to bank the memories to move forward with her life. Holding onto hope of ever seeing him again is pointless. About a year later Chloe meets Lance.
Chloe had thrown herself into her job, working ridiculous hours, mainly to get ahead but it also initially helped distract her from thinking about what she had left behind in the UK. When she agrees to a night out with her best friend Molly she had no expectations but sometimes that is the best way for something unexpected to happen. This is when Molly meets Lance, a gorgeous, successful businessman who very quickly becomes completely taken with Chloe.
A whirlwind romance between them is soon sealed by marriage and they have a wonderful time together. Lance is attentive, virile and very sexy. He loves and adores Chloe. She too feels the same way about Lance, he is her forever and she is excited about their future together.
When Chloe is offered the opportunity to work on a project in the Netherlands she is reluctant to leave Lance. She would be going back and forth, spending long periods of time away from him. However, Lance is proud of Chloe and insists she takes the offer. The last person she ever expected to see in Amsterdam is Oliver, a very single Oliver. Shit.
Chloe has temptation thrown in her path and choices to make. Will she make the right ones though? Nothing like an angsty story that pushes the boundaries and jars my moral compass a wee bit!
January 30, 2020
3.5 Stars ⭐️
January 25, 2020
Release Date: January 28, 2020
Actual Rating: 5 stars
Contemporary Romance | Emotional
Can I just start by saying that Marni Mann writes the most sensual sex scenes I have EVER come across? It gave me the chills! The way she describes it is so alluring and gorgeous and I never ONCE felt dirty when reading them. Not that sex scenes make me feel dirty- it’s natural and I’m FAR from being a prude, but there’s just something about the way SHE writes them that is so intoxicating! Sigh… I loved it so much!
Even if It Hurts is an emotionally INTENSE read. Frustrating at times, but so raw and realistic that it’s hard NOT to put yourself in the head space of the characters. It’s proven through this book that Marni cares about her characters and while their actions aren’t completely justifiable, they are HONEST. Marni sees through their journey in a captivating way and proves that even when it hurts the most one can still pull through. I loved Chloe. I loved Oliver. And I loved Lance (maybe most of all). I felt drawn to each of them, felt the pain, the passion, the chemistry, and everything in between. Each one has their own pieces of perfection and I am truly in awe with how much I connected with them.
This is a book about first loves, last loves, and what happens when the first love comes back. How can one simply let go when their hearts are torn? Is it as simple as walking away because the embers ignite again? Or is it impossible not to lose yourself in the memories and “what could have beens”. This is what plagues Chloe in Even When it Hurts. Is it a love triangle? In many aspects the answer is yes. You can tell this simply by reading the blurb. But then again, the whole story ISN’T about the love triangle. It’s a story about one woman who falls in love with her first lover (the past) and moving on when it’s no longer possible to be together. It’s a story about finding love AGAIN even though she couldn’t have imagined ever feeling close to another man. And it’s about what happens when both worlds collide… Don’t go into thinking it’s a book where cheating takes place throughout the whole story because that’s NOT what this book is about. It’s a book about making the right decisions and following one’s heart even when the past comes back to haunt you.
I personally LOVED THIS BOOK. And I can’t help but highly recommend it to all romance readers ESPECIALLY if you enjoy novels that will tear at your heartstrings.
_________________________________________
Let’s Connect:
My Blog | Bookstagram | Facebook Page | Twitter | Bookbub
Actual Rating: 5 stars
Contemporary Romance | Emotional
Can I just start by saying that Marni Mann writes the most sensual sex scenes I have EVER come across? It gave me the chills! The way she describes it is so alluring and gorgeous and I never ONCE felt dirty when reading them. Not that sex scenes make me feel dirty- it’s natural and I’m FAR from being a prude, but there’s just something about the way SHE writes them that is so intoxicating! Sigh… I loved it so much!
Even if It Hurts is an emotionally INTENSE read. Frustrating at times, but so raw and realistic that it’s hard NOT to put yourself in the head space of the characters. It’s proven through this book that Marni cares about her characters and while their actions aren’t completely justifiable, they are HONEST. Marni sees through their journey in a captivating way and proves that even when it hurts the most one can still pull through. I loved Chloe. I loved Oliver. And I loved Lance (maybe most of all). I felt drawn to each of them, felt the pain, the passion, the chemistry, and everything in between. Each one has their own pieces of perfection and I am truly in awe with how much I connected with them.
This is a book about first loves, last loves, and what happens when the first love comes back. How can one simply let go when their hearts are torn? Is it as simple as walking away because the embers ignite again? Or is it impossible not to lose yourself in the memories and “what could have beens”. This is what plagues Chloe in Even When it Hurts. Is it a love triangle? In many aspects the answer is yes. You can tell this simply by reading the blurb. But then again, the whole story ISN’T about the love triangle. It’s a story about one woman who falls in love with her first lover (the past) and moving on when it’s no longer possible to be together. It’s a story about finding love AGAIN even though she couldn’t have imagined ever feeling close to another man. And it’s about what happens when both worlds collide… Don’t go into thinking it’s a book where cheating takes place throughout the whole story because that’s NOT what this book is about. It’s a book about making the right decisions and following one’s heart even when the past comes back to haunt you.
I personally LOVED THIS BOOK. And I can’t help but highly recommend it to all romance readers ESPECIALLY if you enjoy novels that will tear at your heartstrings.
_________________________________________
Let’s Connect:
My Blog | Bookstagram | Facebook Page | Twitter | Bookbub
May 14, 2020
I thought the book short for this story, because the romance seemed superficial for all of them.
I didn’t see a woman so dumb in my hole reading life.
Af...
I didn’t see a woman so dumb in my hole reading life.
Af...
December 24, 2019
When Marni Mann mentions she has a new story to share my heart equally stops and then pounds in exhilaration and excitement. Her stories are always true and profound and touch you in a myriad of ways. Even If It Hurts is an outstanding and emotionally charged romance between one woman torn between two perfect men. My heart broke for Chloe as she faced an impossible decision choosing between two men and the heart stopping love she shared with both of them. This story was so real, carnal and emotional. It portrays such true emotion in a circumstance where the perfect life can be interrupted and when second chances happen when you at least expect it. I loved Chloe, Oliver and Lance. They were perfection.
This story was breathtaking. Mann makes us fall in love with each character and in turn rips our heart out in the best way possible. This is not an easy read but it is no less exceptional. All magnificent things take dedication and committment and that is exactly what Mann accomplished in this story. She proves without a doubt that she pens stories that originate in her soul and that's why we fall in love with them. She makes us laugh, cry, squirm and weep. Overall, she makes us feel and that's her biggest gift of them all. Her writing is powerful and impactful and one of the things I am most grateful to read as her number one fan. Bravo! 5 stars! ~Ratula
This story was breathtaking. Mann makes us fall in love with each character and in turn rips our heart out in the best way possible. This is not an easy read but it is no less exceptional. All magnificent things take dedication and committment and that is exactly what Mann accomplished in this story. She proves without a doubt that she pens stories that originate in her soul and that's why we fall in love with them. She makes us laugh, cry, squirm and weep. Overall, she makes us feel and that's her biggest gift of them all. Her writing is powerful and impactful and one of the things I am most grateful to read as her number one fan. Bravo! 5 stars! ~Ratula
March 6, 2020
3.5 ⭐'s
The one thing I love about Goodreads is seeing star ratings (and/or reviews) for books and knowing that there's a reason for either the good or the bad. It doesn't necessarily stop me from reading said books but I like that I'm a bit prepared.
However, I'm not sure I could be prepared for this one even if I had read the reviews.
Chloe is heading off to London to do a semester abroad. Right off the bat, she meets Oliver and he's something else. They become consumed with each other, spending all their spare time together knowing she's going home soon. You know the saying about the best laid plans? Well, it happens to these two...and it's pretty heartbreaking. Chloe's grief was hard to take but life goes on.
It takes a few years but then Chloe meets Lance and he's everything she didn't realize she wanted. He's almost too good to be true. AND...the one thing that bothered me a bit was that he was sooo much like Oliver - in and out of the bedroom.
Of course, her work takes her overseas to work on a project and of course, she runs into Oliver. Is she able to just be friends with him or does she succumb to his wily ways all over again?
A bit hard to read for some people but what was shocking for me was the ending. I'm SHOCKED that Chloe did that but even more shocking was how orchestrated things really were. And it left me a bit sad. I really wish we had gotten Chloe's POV at the end.
The one thing I love about Goodreads is seeing star ratings (and/or reviews) for books and knowing that there's a reason for either the good or the bad. It doesn't necessarily stop me from reading said books but I like that I'm a bit prepared.
However, I'm not sure I could be prepared for this one even if I had read the reviews.
Chloe is heading off to London to do a semester abroad. Right off the bat, she meets Oliver and he's something else. They become consumed with each other, spending all their spare time together knowing she's going home soon. You know the saying about the best laid plans? Well, it happens to these two...and it's pretty heartbreaking. Chloe's grief was hard to take but life goes on.
It takes a few years but then Chloe meets Lance and he's everything she didn't realize she wanted. He's almost too good to be true. AND...the one thing that bothered me a bit was that he was sooo much like Oliver - in and out of the bedroom.
Of course, her work takes her overseas to work on a project and of course, she runs into Oliver. Is she able to just be friends with him or does she succumb to his wily ways all over again?
A bit hard to read for some people but what was shocking for me was the ending. I'm SHOCKED that Chloe did that but even more shocking was how orchestrated things really were. And it left me a bit sad. I really wish we had gotten Chloe's POV at the end.
January 29, 2020
After reading this I’ve realised that I’ve so not read enough of this authors stories as this was so good.
Gahhhhh what a story. From start to finish the author had me under her spell. I felt as if she threw me on an emotional rollercoaster to read this.
The true raw emotion that the author portrayed through her words in Even If It Hurts is amazing. She put a spell on me.
She gave us four amazing characters Chloe, Lance, Oliver and Molly. My heart broke for Chloe.
No more from me. All I’m gonna say is this is a fantastic read. If this is a sign of the stories coming this year then we are in for one fantastic year.
Gahhhhh what a story. From start to finish the author had me under her spell. I felt as if she threw me on an emotional rollercoaster to read this.
The true raw emotion that the author portrayed through her words in Even If It Hurts is amazing. She put a spell on me.
She gave us four amazing characters Chloe, Lance, Oliver and Molly. My heart broke for Chloe.
No more from me. All I’m gonna say is this is a fantastic read. If this is a sign of the stories coming this year then we are in for one fantastic year.
May 11, 2020
2.5★★Stars
Genre:
Contemporary Romance
Type:
Standalone
POV:
First Person - Female
"No matter how you work this out, someone is going to get hurt."
This story started pretty good, we first meet Chloe Kennedy a girl who was responsible and decided working for a degree was better than partying up her college life. She gets an opportunity of a lifetime so she took it. While out of the country she meets a handsome man who she truly thought she had a connection with. However; she knew from the start connection or not that relationship will not last due to the distance and overall circumstances.
"Didn’t feel real. It felt like a fairy tale. One I wanted to live in forever."
So that's where the story ended for me, I was waiting for something powerful to happen and sadly it never did. The fling she had with this guy really didn't felt deep to me for her to be heart broken. In all honestly she moved on super fast when she finds another guy that she madly truly fell in love with even to the point of building a life together. So you ask again why didn't I feel connected? I just didn't, I felt her life and everything she had was just so easy there were no obstacles or struggles that she came across which didn't make this story believable to me.
"There was a feeling that consumed my chest. It was love. And in that moment, I knew without a doubt in my mind that I couldn't hurt this man."
As a reader I do not have any triggers, I love reading outside my comfort zone. I read all genres so I was excited for this story, the deeper the feels the better for me. However; I felt there was no reason whatsoever for the cheating to have happen, there were no consequences for the selfish choices of the characters. The connections just were not deep enough to feel for any of them but I didn't like that some people were wronged by selfish choices with no consequences.
"I wouldn't break her trust, so all I could do was wait. Every fucking minute was tortuous."
Overall; I really wanted to love this story but sadly it just didn’t work for me. I felt completely unattached to the characters. Sadly the heroine felt short for me, her lack of remorse and consequences for her actions didn’t sit well with me. Even if it hurts is a story about life and choices and while this story didn't resonate with me, I look forward to reading future books by this author.
This was a F(BR) with CC, War & Liz
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February 2, 2020
This was my first Marni Mann novel and here I am at 4am, trying to put thoughts into words because I couldn't sleep until I finished this story! What a complicated yet somehow relatable dynamic Marni Mann created here with a story about a woman who falls desperately in love with two men in two different phases of her life and then finds those phases intertwined when she least expects it.
This book will be too much for some, understandably so. It does hurt and anger and it absolutely crosses lines. But it's a story about an imperfect woman in a complicated situation that just feels so torn between the great loves she's been shown in her lifetime. It's emotionally tumultuous, deliciously sexy and passionately angsty! I couldn't get enough.
I absolutely adored the writing in this book, couldn't stop reading, couldn't digest it all fast enough. There were things I wished had played out a bit differently but ultimately this story rounded out precisely the way I hoped it would! I really enjoyed this!
This book will be too much for some, understandably so. It does hurt and anger and it absolutely crosses lines. But it's a story about an imperfect woman in a complicated situation that just feels so torn between the great loves she's been shown in her lifetime. It's emotionally tumultuous, deliciously sexy and passionately angsty! I couldn't get enough.
I absolutely adored the writing in this book, couldn't stop reading, couldn't digest it all fast enough. There were things I wished had played out a bit differently but ultimately this story rounded out precisely the way I hoped it would! I really enjoyed this!
March 3, 2023
Even If It Hurts…well this one damn sure HURT.
This one hit close for me and I will be needing 5-7 business days to recover, a cocktail, & maybe some therapy.
This one hit close for me and I will be needing 5-7 business days to recover, a cocktail, & maybe some therapy.
January 19, 2020
‘The surprise is you.’
“Will it always feel this way?”
Even If It Hurts is one of those books that we have an intense love/hate relationship with. The story both made us incredibly angry yet full of love. Frustrating, beautiful, unjust and filled with love. Marni Mann is such a wonderful storyteller who cares so deeply for her characters, ensuring we fall in love with them thus feeling the incredible pain and the intense love they have for each other. It’s a testament to her quality of writing that we both loved and hated this story. That it made us cry real tears.
‘As I swallowed his air, feeling the heat come off his body, I could almost taste his skin.’
When you become overwhelmingly emotional no matter which end of the spectrum you find yourself, a writer has nailed it. And Marni Mann did. When you are unable to stop thinking of the story, trying to rationalise the actions of the characters whilst swinging on a pendulum from anger to understanding; from love to hate, you know she nailed it. We may not like it, but we lived it till the point of complete immersion.
‘How will I ever say good-bye to you?’
“I should have known…kissing you once would never be enough.”
To be absolutely honest, we don’t even know how we feel right now. We have too many emotions in our hearts which both confuse us, and counteract each other. We do know we cannot stop thinking about it though. First love. Such a powerful memory that never leaves us. What would we do if we met our first love later in life? The person who loved us with the same intensity as we loved them. It doesn’t matter how many years pass, you never forget and you always wonder. What would you do?
‘…as I watched his face, it was like seeing a ghost. Someone my heart had said good-bye to six years ago. Someone I never intended on seeing again.’
‘I hated myself for that. I didn’t know how to make this feeling go away. How to make…it stop. How to make any of this stop.’
Infidelity. Being in love with two people unable to fight it. It’s a tough subject. There is an unwritten rule and assumption that -you cannot and should not- love two people in the same way at the same time. Emotional infidelity, physical infidelity; which is worse or are they both as bad as each other? At what point is a line crossed? Our hearts hurt, our anger raged, our feelings of injustice were rife. But we could not put this book down. Marni Mann made us care, she made us fall in love and she broke our hearts, as we fell in love with two men; Oliver and Lance. Just as Chloe did. We could not choose, we could not fathom how you could hurt either of them. We raged at Chloe for some of her actions, hated her even. But, we were with her, by her side. What would we have done differently? At what stage would we have walked away from love? Even If It Hurts is about making choices, about following your heart and placing a limit on hurt.
‘To make this all feel normal again. To return to before. But before was gone. Everything I had known…was gone…I didn’t recognise her. I didn’t recognise me. I…What the fuck did I just do?’
‘It was love. And in that moment, I knew without a doubt in my mind that I couldn’t hurt this man.’
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February 4, 2020
Lord have mercy, this author knows how to write. And I mean she CAN WRITE ANYTHING. Keep you wanting more, making you want to rip the pages or punch the screen. Yep, I am sitting here trying to decide what the hell I just read, so give me a moment to catch myself
June 26, 2022
You can always count on Marni Mann to deliver the feels, and with her newest book she brought it in bucketloads. EVEN IF IT HURTS is a beautifully written, heart-breaking, love triangle story! And I advise you to have a box (or two) of tissues handy.
January 24, 2020
This book has left me in such an EMOTIONAL MESS! This love story was sexy, passionate, honest and thought provoking. A real love story that made me smile, cry and yes, get angry. Books like these that make me experience such a myriad of emotions are the best of the best in my opinion.
There is one heroine and two heroes in this book. Chloe has been blessed (or cursed) to have fallen in love with two men at different times in her life. I had an instant connection with ALL these characters and I needed all three of them to find their HEA. My heart bled for Chloe and the impossible choices she had to make. I honestly at one point had no idea what I wanted her to do either.
The chemistry these characters have is so intense! This is the sexiest book by Marni Mann that I have read so those steamy scenes were a nice surprise. Some parts of the book felt combustible. Every look, every touch felt erotic. This wasn't just physical attraction though. This was true love that overpowered everything including time and distance. There is so much romance in here, I dare you not to swoon.
Chloe is a heroine I know will be judged harshly by some readers but in the end I couldn't help but respecther. While I didn't agree with some of her choices, I felt her pain, confusion and indecision. Above all I felt her love for these two amazing men that both stole my heart.
This story was raw and unfiltered and showed the messy side of love. In the end my heart felt like it was ripped from my chest. I was happy with how this ended but it didn't take away the pain. The turmoil of emotions that came with reading this book was intense and I absolutely LOVED every minute of it! I have so many unanswered questions after reading this and I actually love that the author has us wanting MORE. I love Marni Mann more and more with each of her books. She has absolutely mastered the writing of emotionally charged books and this one felt flawless.
5 Stars
Contemporary Romance
POV: Heroine
Heat Level: HOT
HEA: ?
Follow me for your next comfort read!
There is one heroine and two heroes in this book. Chloe has been blessed (or cursed) to have fallen in love with two men at different times in her life. I had an instant connection with ALL these characters and I needed all three of them to find their HEA. My heart bled for Chloe and the impossible choices she had to make. I honestly at one point had no idea what I wanted her to do either.
The chemistry these characters have is so intense! This is the sexiest book by Marni Mann that I have read so those steamy scenes were a nice surprise. Some parts of the book felt combustible. Every look, every touch felt erotic. This wasn't just physical attraction though. This was true love that overpowered everything including time and distance. There is so much romance in here, I dare you not to swoon.
Chloe is a heroine I know will be judged harshly by some readers but in the end I couldn't help but respecther. While I didn't agree with some of her choices, I felt her pain, confusion and indecision. Above all I felt her love for these two amazing men that both stole my heart.
This story was raw and unfiltered and showed the messy side of love. In the end my heart felt like it was ripped from my chest. I was happy with how this ended but it didn't take away the pain. The turmoil of emotions that came with reading this book was intense and I absolutely LOVED every minute of it! I have so many unanswered questions after reading this and I actually love that the author has us wanting MORE. I love Marni Mann more and more with each of her books. She has absolutely mastered the writing of emotionally charged books and this one felt flawless.
5 Stars
Contemporary Romance
POV: Heroine
Heat Level: HOT
HEA: ?
Follow me for your next comfort read!
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