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Men of Manhattan #3
Missing Pieces
Hailey - He's still in love with his ex. And I refuse to be a consolation prize. So why did I just agree to a spur of the moment road trip with him? I just have to keep reminding myself that I'm doing this for me. It has nothing to do with the gorgeous man staring at me like I'm a crazy person.
Tyler - Why is she climbing into my car uninvited? I don't care how sweet her smile is. Or how long her legs are. This isn't some aimless summer road trip. But I can tell from the way she's looking at me that she knows the truth. I'm not driving toward something. I'm driving away from something. Someone.
Tyler - Why is she climbing into my car uninvited? I don't care how sweet her smile is. Or how long her legs are. This isn't some aimless summer road trip. But I can tell from the way she's looking at me that she knows the truth. I'm not driving toward something. I'm driving away from something. Someone.
381 pages, Kindle Edition
Published September 1, 2020
3446 people are currently reading
2466 people want to read
About the author
Ivy Smoak
93 books8,118 followersIvy Smoak is the Wall Street Journal, USA Today, and Amazon #1 bestselling author of The Hunted Series. Her books have sold over 4 million copies worldwide.
When she's not writing, you can find Ivy binge watching too many TV shows, taking long walks, playing outside, and generally refusing to act like an adult. She lives with her husband in Delaware.
Learn more about Ivy on:
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Join Ivy Smoak's newsletter for a sexy FREE story and exclusive material: https://www.ivysmoak.com/newsletter
Empire High
The Hunted & Light to My Darkness
Made of Steel
When she's not writing, you can find Ivy binge watching too many TV shows, taking long walks, playing outside, and generally refusing to act like an adult. She lives with her husband in Delaware.
Learn more about Ivy on:
Amazon ➜ http://bit.ly/IvySmoakAMZ
Facebook ➜ http://bit.ly/IvySmoakFacebook
Instagram ➜ http://bit.ly/IvySmoakInsta
TikTok ➜ https://bit.ly/3F6QML7
BookBub ➜ https://bit.ly/2VOZycg
Website ➜ bit.ly/IvySmoakWebsite
Reader Group ➜ bit.ly/IvySmoakGroup
Join Ivy Smoak's newsletter for a sexy FREE story and exclusive material: https://www.ivysmoak.com/newsletter
Empire High
The Hunted & Light to My Darkness
Made of Steel
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 338 reviews
August 27, 2018
3.5 stars
Hailey and Tyler meet by chance when Tyler exits the freeway in hopes of finding a gas station. He decides to stop for a drink at a bar where Hailey is working behind the counter. Both have things in their life that are troubling them. Tyler is leaving NYC and heading to California in hopes of starting over and doing something great. Hailey has learned some troubling news and wants to head to California in hopes of helping a loved one.
Hailey decides to take a chance and invites herself on Tyler's drive to California. Tyler has no idea why Hailey wants to go to California but decides to let her come along. Both are intrigued by the other and both had fun flirting at the bar. Both feel the chemistry between them, but both are set on achieving their goal of getting to California. Both characters leave out bits and pieces of information about their lives, hence the title Missing pieces.
This proved to be a fast read with like-able characters who are prone to jumping to conclusions and not being entirely forthcoming with the other person. Both characters are like-able and both have some growing up to do. At times I wanted to pull Hailey aside and tell her to stop and just listen. She tended to jump to conclusions, act impulsively and create arguments that the couple did not need to have. If she would have just stopped and listened, heard Tyler out, then things would have gone much smoother for the couple. Having said that, her character is twenty-two years old and did not have a lot of life experience, so it is understandable how she lacked some emotional maturity. But she was always willing to right a wrong after she realized that there was more to the story than she originally thought.
As the characters go on their physical journey, each are also on their own personal journeys as well. Both are dealing with their own individual pain. Both learn to open up, to work on their communication skills, to trust themselves and each other, both learn to let go of past pain and guilt. They also learn to forgive others and themselves. The book is also about the missing pieces in their lives and how they both fill a piece in the other's life. I also liked that even though each character had issues, they supported each other without asking the other to change or compromise who they were as a person.
This was a fast and enjoyable read. This book touches on love, loss, abandonment, cancer, romance, staring over, rejection and falling in love. Perfect for end of summer/pool/beach reading.
I received a copy of this book from the Author in exchange for an honest review. All the thoughts and opinions are my own.
Read more of my reviews at www.openbookpost.com
Hailey and Tyler meet by chance when Tyler exits the freeway in hopes of finding a gas station. He decides to stop for a drink at a bar where Hailey is working behind the counter. Both have things in their life that are troubling them. Tyler is leaving NYC and heading to California in hopes of starting over and doing something great. Hailey has learned some troubling news and wants to head to California in hopes of helping a loved one.
Hailey decides to take a chance and invites herself on Tyler's drive to California. Tyler has no idea why Hailey wants to go to California but decides to let her come along. Both are intrigued by the other and both had fun flirting at the bar. Both feel the chemistry between them, but both are set on achieving their goal of getting to California. Both characters leave out bits and pieces of information about their lives, hence the title Missing pieces.
This proved to be a fast read with like-able characters who are prone to jumping to conclusions and not being entirely forthcoming with the other person. Both characters are like-able and both have some growing up to do. At times I wanted to pull Hailey aside and tell her to stop and just listen. She tended to jump to conclusions, act impulsively and create arguments that the couple did not need to have. If she would have just stopped and listened, heard Tyler out, then things would have gone much smoother for the couple. Having said that, her character is twenty-two years old and did not have a lot of life experience, so it is understandable how she lacked some emotional maturity. But she was always willing to right a wrong after she realized that there was more to the story than she originally thought.
As the characters go on their physical journey, each are also on their own personal journeys as well. Both are dealing with their own individual pain. Both learn to open up, to work on their communication skills, to trust themselves and each other, both learn to let go of past pain and guilt. They also learn to forgive others and themselves. The book is also about the missing pieces in their lives and how they both fill a piece in the other's life. I also liked that even though each character had issues, they supported each other without asking the other to change or compromise who they were as a person.
This was a fast and enjoyable read. This book touches on love, loss, abandonment, cancer, romance, staring over, rejection and falling in love. Perfect for end of summer/pool/beach reading.
I received a copy of this book from the Author in exchange for an honest review. All the thoughts and opinions are my own.
Read more of my reviews at www.openbookpost.com
February 4, 2017
I'm stuck between 2.5 and 3 stars. I loved Penny & James story and was so excited to have Tyler's story. But I felt him and Hailey were both a little whiny. Both expected the other to open up and be truthful but then didn't do it themselves. Then the part that really annoyed me was that Hailey found out she was pregnant less then a week after they slept together. And morning sickness right away...in real life morning sickness doesn't start till about 4-6 weeks, not 3 days.
September 6, 2018
2 1/2 Stars rounded up. Enjoyed the writing style.
Want to read
August 14, 2018💝FREE on iBooks today (8/14/2018)!💝
Blurb:
Hailey - He's still in love with his ex. And I refuse to be a consolation prize. So why did I just agree to a spur of the moment road trip with him? I just have to keep reminding myself that I'm doing this for me. It has nothing to do with the gorgeous man staring at me like I'm a crazy person.
Tyler - Why is she climbing into my car uninvited? I don't care how sweet her smile is. Or how long her legs are. This isn't some aimless summer road trip. But I can tell from the way she's looking at me that she knows the truth. I'm not driving toward something. I'm driving away from something. Someone.
Blurb:
Hailey - He's still in love with his ex. And I refuse to be a consolation prize. So why did I just agree to a spur of the moment road trip with him? I just have to keep reminding myself that I'm doing this for me. It has nothing to do with the gorgeous man staring at me like I'm a crazy person.
Tyler - Why is she climbing into my car uninvited? I don't care how sweet her smile is. Or how long her legs are. This isn't some aimless summer road trip. But I can tell from the way she's looking at me that she knows the truth. I'm not driving toward something. I'm driving away from something. Someone.
February 16, 2021
Тази книга определено мисля, че попада в категорията мигновена любов. Е, почти. За краткото време за което се познават, те успяха да припознаят себе си в другия и това което ги допълва, което ги прави едно цяло.
Героите са добре изградени, не са плоски. Хареса ми как всеки от тях осъзнаваше своите странности и ги приемаше. Разбира се имаха свои проблеми които бяха на по- дълбоко, но до края на книгата успяха да намерят корените на тези проблеми и да ги осъзнаят и осмислят.
Хейли много ми допадна. Жена със силен характер, която е готова на всичко за любимите си хора.
Какво мога да кажа, влюбих се в Тайлър. Дори и да не иска да говори за проблемите си и това какво е преживял, той не се срамува да признае слабостите си. Човек с голямо сърце, което раздава на всеки, искайки или не.
Имаше ситуации в които, и двамата, изпадаха в крайности, но не беше някак детинско, защото се разбира, че реакцията им е такава заради това което са преживели в миналото.
Героите са добре изградени, не са плоски. Хареса ми как всеки от тях осъзнаваше своите странности и ги приемаше. Разбира се имаха свои проблеми които бяха на по- дълбоко, но до края на книгата успяха да намерят корените на тези проблеми и да ги осъзнаят и осмислят.
Хейли много ми допадна. Жена със силен характер, която е готова на всичко за любимите си хора.
Какво мога да кажа, влюбих се в Тайлър. Дори и да не иска да говори за проблемите си и това какво е преживял, той не се срамува да признае слабостите си. Човек с голямо сърце, което раздава на всеки, искайки или не.
Имаше ситуации в които, и двамата, изпадаха в крайности, но не беше някак детинско, защото се разбира, че реакцията им е такава заради това което са преживели в миналото.
April 12, 2024
Got all the feels
Amazing read! Another well-written story by Ivy Smoak. I love all the characters, the storyline, and how they made me feel.
I got to see another side of Tyler in this book that was different from what I thought I knew about him in the Hunted Series. Loved getting some closure and backstory for the Hunted Series in this read.
Tyler and Hailey’s chemistry starts when “And this hot guy walks into a bar.” I love it, I don’t know how Smoak comes up with these ideas. These two strangers who have been second place in their love lives set out on a road trip across the country together. Every mile you’re drawn into these characters and become emotionally invested in their past, present, and future. The ride was a little drawn out in the end, but worth it when you found out how these missing pieces fit together.
Amazing read! Another well-written story by Ivy Smoak. I love all the characters, the storyline, and how they made me feel.
I got to see another side of Tyler in this book that was different from what I thought I knew about him in the Hunted Series. Loved getting some closure and backstory for the Hunted Series in this read.
Tyler and Hailey’s chemistry starts when “And this hot guy walks into a bar.” I love it, I don’t know how Smoak comes up with these ideas. These two strangers who have been second place in their love lives set out on a road trip across the country together. Every mile you’re drawn into these characters and become emotionally invested in their past, present, and future. The ride was a little drawn out in the end, but worth it when you found out how these missing pieces fit together.
December 6, 2019
2.5 stars
I wanted to love Tyler's story so much. After reading The Hunted series (which I enjoyed), I was thrilled to discover many of the secondary characters were in Men of Manhattan series. I adored Tyler in the other books, but Missing Pieces did not do him justice. There were glimpses of his charming, playful, humorous side, but he was incredibly whiney in the book, as was the Hailey. This story is hugely angsty, and I don't mind angst, especially with both of the character's emotional histories. It just was TOO much for me that I found myself wanting to stop reading.
Hailey was a piece of work. She was hot, then cold, then hot, then cold. We hear from her thoughts how she feels about him, loves him, and how wonderful and perfect he is, but she holds back and doesn't open up to him about her dying father until nearly the end. Like what kind of a relationship is that? Well, they'd only known each other week so you wouldn't expect much. Except the story is written as if they'd found their "missing pieces." In other words, insta-love. Wholly unrealistic. There was so much back and forth I didn't understand what either of them saw in the other. Truly, it was quite frustrating.
Hailey always accused Tyler of lying, and it hurt his feelings (and mine) that she didn't trust him. I mean, come on! Tyler is a terrific man! And every time she'd chew his ass up one side and down the other, ran off or pushed him away, he still took her back. SMH! Like why? She's constantly horrible to him. I couldn't stand it. He deserved someone better than Hailey. Honestly, I didn't like her at all. Don't get me wrong, their painful, broken pasts were sad. But they were so childish most of the time; it was so out of character for the Tyler we got to know in the other books.
On the positive, I did enjoy the writing style, and I loved seeing James and Penny, I love those two so much!
I wanted to love Tyler's story so much. After reading The Hunted series (which I enjoyed), I was thrilled to discover many of the secondary characters were in Men of Manhattan series. I adored Tyler in the other books, but Missing Pieces did not do him justice. There were glimpses of his charming, playful, humorous side, but he was incredibly whiney in the book, as was the Hailey. This story is hugely angsty, and I don't mind angst, especially with both of the character's emotional histories. It just was TOO much for me that I found myself wanting to stop reading.
Hailey was a piece of work. She was hot, then cold, then hot, then cold. We hear from her thoughts how she feels about him, loves him, and how wonderful and perfect he is, but she holds back and doesn't open up to him about her dying father until nearly the end. Like what kind of a relationship is that? Well, they'd only known each other week so you wouldn't expect much. Except the story is written as if they'd found their "missing pieces." In other words, insta-love. Wholly unrealistic. There was so much back and forth I didn't understand what either of them saw in the other. Truly, it was quite frustrating.
Hailey always accused Tyler of lying, and it hurt his feelings (and mine) that she didn't trust him. I mean, come on! Tyler is a terrific man! And every time she'd chew his ass up one side and down the other, ran off or pushed him away, he still took her back. SMH! Like why? She's constantly horrible to him. I couldn't stand it. He deserved someone better than Hailey. Honestly, I didn't like her at all. Don't get me wrong, their painful, broken pasts were sad. But they were so childish most of the time; it was so out of character for the Tyler we got to know in the other books.
On the positive, I did enjoy the writing style, and I loved seeing James and Penny, I love those two so much!
January 24, 2017
I voluntarily reviewed and advanced readers copy of this book. I'm so glad that Tyler got his story. In the Hunted Series he seems like such a good guy, lost and confused but inherently good. I love Penny and James' story so much that I was glad to see a glimpse of them in this story. Leave it to Ivy to bring Josh back into the picture! I love how Ivy tells stories. The differing POV's deepen the emotions of the story. The characters are great adding to the overall story. Any way to keep reading about Tyler and Hailey AND James and Penny? Pleeeeeeease?
June 7, 2021
★ ★ ★ ☆ ☆ (3/5 stars)
❝ I wasn't going to beg him to be with me if he didn't want to be ❞
This was an emotional rollercoaster!
Hailey agrees to a spur-of-the-moment road trip with Tyler - a gorgeous and mysterious man who's running from something or maybe from someone... What will happen when Tyler and Hailey start to form a beautiful friendship that begins to feel like love, when they both know that this road trip will soon come to an end?
Looking forward to reading more books written by Avy Smoak!
February 3, 2017
I absolutely loved this story. There was so much packed into this story but in the best way. A lot of the missing pieces from the final book in the Hunted series were filled in with this book, giving us the rest of the unanswered questions about what was going on with Tyler.
This book has everything. There were funny moments, exciting moments, and times where emotions ran high and low. I found myself biting my nails and on the edge of my seat and sneak-reading whenever I could all the way until the end! I had way more feels in this book than I expected to and found myself rooting so hard for Tyler. The guy just could not catch a break. The girl he meets, Hailey, has her own set of problems and hurtful past. The two of them have different hurts to overcome and hurdles to cross. While difficult at times, being stuck in the car together causes them to get to know one another, and inadvertently to find strength in each other as they grow closer.
This plot was so well thought out and kept me hooked throughout! For me, this was a fast-paced read, with something going on during their travels all the time. You really do feel like you know these people and can feel their emotional highs and lows right along with them. I really enjoyed being able to see the other characters a bit within this book as well, as they pertain to Tyler and the preceding story. I hope more people can learn about the Hunted series and the .5 books and spread the word. I think they are all fabulous and I will continue to recommend and promote these books for the foreseeable future! <3
reviewed by Sweet Spot Sisterhood
This book has everything. There were funny moments, exciting moments, and times where emotions ran high and low. I found myself biting my nails and on the edge of my seat and sneak-reading whenever I could all the way until the end! I had way more feels in this book than I expected to and found myself rooting so hard for Tyler. The guy just could not catch a break. The girl he meets, Hailey, has her own set of problems and hurtful past. The two of them have different hurts to overcome and hurdles to cross. While difficult at times, being stuck in the car together causes them to get to know one another, and inadvertently to find strength in each other as they grow closer.
This plot was so well thought out and kept me hooked throughout! For me, this was a fast-paced read, with something going on during their travels all the time. You really do feel like you know these people and can feel their emotional highs and lows right along with them. I really enjoyed being able to see the other characters a bit within this book as well, as they pertain to Tyler and the preceding story. I hope more people can learn about the Hunted series and the .5 books and spread the word. I think they are all fabulous and I will continue to recommend and promote these books for the foreseeable future! <3
reviewed by Sweet Spot Sisterhood
March 20, 2021
The final addition to my, 'how the hell have I not left a review for this book yet?' reviews is for the third book in the amazing Ivy Smoak's Men of Manhattan series. Although I'll be honest, I've spotted a few more books that slipped by unreviewed, but I plan to give then another read and a proper review. I mean, it's what they deserve after all. (Sorry Ivy - your books are just so good I get swept away by them)
It's hard review this book without including spoilers from The Hunted Series, so before you feast your eyes on this short and sweet summary if you haven't already read the amazing series, start there.
Missing Pieces follows Tyler's journey of self discovery. Torn and heartbroken, he has made a decision that will affect the rest of his life, and it all starts with a road trip. What he didn't expect to find on this journey was the one thing he had been missing. Her name is Hayley, and she's joining him on the road in a desperate attempt to save everything she loves. She needs to find hope, he needs to find himself, but together they find each other. This is a really sweet book that gives you a glimpse into Tyler's past that also sheds some light on the boy we first meet in the Hunted series.
i read this originally on KU and ended up buying it on my second read through.
It's hard review this book without including spoilers from The Hunted Series, so before you feast your eyes on this short and sweet summary if you haven't already read the amazing series, start there.
Missing Pieces follows Tyler's journey of self discovery. Torn and heartbroken, he has made a decision that will affect the rest of his life, and it all starts with a road trip. What he didn't expect to find on this journey was the one thing he had been missing. Her name is Hayley, and she's joining him on the road in a desperate attempt to save everything she loves. She needs to find hope, he needs to find himself, but together they find each other. This is a really sweet book that gives you a glimpse into Tyler's past that also sheds some light on the boy we first meet in the Hunted series.
i read this originally on KU and ended up buying it on my second read through.
August 23, 2019
I just thought when Tyler met the one. He'd have realized what he found. He was always too hung up on Penny. Hailey was strong until later into the story she wasn't. She was good at putting on a front. I'll agree with other readers there was too much push and pull with these two. I guess that would be natural since I think the span of their book literally takes place over 2-3 weeks which really isn't that long. She also got a positive pregnancy test way early in that kind of time frame. Maybe im the only one going 🤔. Story wasn't terrible just a little time line inconsistencies. It was nice to learn about Tyler's back story though especially since he always came across as the carefree happy guy in penny and James books. Would recommend.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 4, 2020
Missing Pieces is by Ivy Smoat. This is Tyler’s story after finally breaking off with Penny on the eve of her wedding.
Tyler left James and Penny’s apartment after having made his peace with James over Penny. He had asked Penny to go with him; but she told him in no uncertain terms that she was with James. Their friendship along with Tyler’s love is broken and he decides to leave completely. He didn’t even go to their wedding; but left town. He was in a small town with Hailey when he saw James get shot.
Tyler got in his car and left for California. He had stopped at the Marine Recruitment office and enlisted. He was headed to San Diego for boot camp. He had called his Mother and told her but only she knew. He stopped and picked up a few items of clothing and toiletries and continued. He stopped in a little town in Indiana to get gas. He stopped at a bar to get directions to find the gas station and met Hailey after whom Hals bar was names. She had just learned her Father was dying and had gotten loans on everything to try to pay the medical bills. He was given four months left. He waited until Hailey graduated before telling her. She knew she had to go to California and confront Elena, her Mother, to get some money to pay for the bills. However, she didn’t have the money to get there. She remembered Tyler and convinced him to let her hitchhike to California with him. She didn’t tell him why, just that she needed to get there. They stopped by her house where she picked up her duffle, she had just brought home from school and had not unpacked and headed for California with Tyler. What she didn’t know was Tyler had arrest warrants out for him as a person of interest in the shooting of James Hunter. He wasn’t answering the calls from the Chief of Police. What had she done?
Tyler left James and Penny’s apartment after having made his peace with James over Penny. He had asked Penny to go with him; but she told him in no uncertain terms that she was with James. Their friendship along with Tyler’s love is broken and he decides to leave completely. He didn’t even go to their wedding; but left town. He was in a small town with Hailey when he saw James get shot.
Tyler got in his car and left for California. He had stopped at the Marine Recruitment office and enlisted. He was headed to San Diego for boot camp. He had called his Mother and told her but only she knew. He stopped and picked up a few items of clothing and toiletries and continued. He stopped in a little town in Indiana to get gas. He stopped at a bar to get directions to find the gas station and met Hailey after whom Hals bar was names. She had just learned her Father was dying and had gotten loans on everything to try to pay the medical bills. He was given four months left. He waited until Hailey graduated before telling her. She knew she had to go to California and confront Elena, her Mother, to get some money to pay for the bills. However, she didn’t have the money to get there. She remembered Tyler and convinced him to let her hitchhike to California with him. She didn’t tell him why, just that she needed to get there. They stopped by her house where she picked up her duffle, she had just brought home from school and had not unpacked and headed for California with Tyler. What she didn’t know was Tyler had arrest warrants out for him as a person of interest in the shooting of James Hunter. He wasn’t answering the calls from the Chief of Police. What had she done?
October 17, 2022
Romance books typically need excuses why the two people who just love each other so much from the first sight are still not together. In this book, they are just completely unable to use phone and get each other's phone number, so they have to drive around tens of hours just to leave a message (and unsurprisingly, the message does not contain a phone number). In addition, love does not prevent them to believe most odious things about each other. She thinks he is a murderer, he thinks she is a gold digger who wants money - but they don't seem to be very offended of these allegations. She almost killed them both with her reckless driving (obviously she thought that admiring his facial features instead of road conditions during torrential rain was a good idea) and his reaction was ... love, kissing and sex. Dude is your life so cheap that you don't even care when somebody almost took it? But the book was an easy read.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
February 6, 2019
This was a cute contemporary read. At times, it seemed a little forced and fluffed. I liked the overall concept, but the ending felt very rushed and unrealistic. I liked the unexpected moments though and the creativity behind the storyline. I wish that there was more description and backstory with Overall, it was a good read.
March 15, 2024
This was my favorite book of the series, but that’s not saying much. I didn’t love Tyler in the hunted series and I wasn’t even interested in reading his story, but I’m surprised by how much more I enjoyed it than I thought I would. The plot was more thoughtful than Mason and Rob’s storylines and overall Tyler is just a better person than the other two. There are definitely some WTF moments that don’t make any sense, but I wouldn’t have expected anything else from a book in this Hunter universe.
March 6, 2021
Okay, so Tyler's story is my favorite of this series. It had more feeling to it, I guess. And his personality was just way more sincere right from the beginning. Plus I was just glad to see him find his person. And Hailey was way better suited to him. I loved their connection and that they cared enough to fight and make up. Plus Tyler got all kinds of closure and I loved their whirlwind, roadtrip, healing kind of romance. I was pleasantly surprised.
September 16, 2018
I didn't even have any idea about this book when I opened it yesterday. Hailey and Tyler virtual strangers end up on a road trip together. Both are dealing painful pasts and issues. As their friendship blossoms during this week long trip they are really connecting. I loved this book so much. Must read.
June 19, 2020
Loved it. Poor Tyler has gotten the short end of the stick for years. He’s been pining after a girl he can never have until he meets Hailey.
May 14, 2023
⭐️⭐️⭐️1/2
May 30, 2025
I really should stop reading contemporary romance.
Predictable plot
Winey characters
Messy and unnecessary chapters
Just no...
Predictable plot
Winey characters
Messy and unnecessary chapters
Just no...
September 11, 2018
Epic
This is an epic story of an all-consuming insta-love that just blew me away.
I usually find insta-love stories a bit unbelievable, but this story made me a believer. There is just something so real about Tyler and Hailey. Both of them are battered and broken by life, but together they are each other’s missing pieces.
Having a road trip as the setting for their intense romance worked so well. Being forced to spend time together just got things moving along nicely. But the author doesn’t skimp on the story or the details. It’s a good chunk of a book which I really enjoyed sinking my teeth into.
I could go into detail over the plot, but I won’t. Just read the blurb and dive right in. The book will take you on a rollercoaster of emotions but just trust that their destination is exactly where they’re meant to be.
This is an epic story of an all-consuming insta-love that just blew me away.
I usually find insta-love stories a bit unbelievable, but this story made me a believer. There is just something so real about Tyler and Hailey. Both of them are battered and broken by life, but together they are each other’s missing pieces.
Having a road trip as the setting for their intense romance worked so well. Being forced to spend time together just got things moving along nicely. But the author doesn’t skimp on the story or the details. It’s a good chunk of a book which I really enjoyed sinking my teeth into.
I could go into detail over the plot, but I won’t. Just read the blurb and dive right in. The book will take you on a rollercoaster of emotions but just trust that their destination is exactly where they’re meant to be.
January 12, 2021
Finally
Tyler needed to have his moment to shine!!!! Hails is the total missing piece for him! Can’t be happier for them!!!
Tyler needed to have his moment to shine!!!! Hails is the total missing piece for him! Can’t be happier for them!!!
January 28, 2017
This is a story of two messy people, who, together were a whole lot less messy!!
Tyler is kind of a lost soul, seeking for something meaningful after 3 years of yearning for someone, who only saw him as a friend. After she got married he decided to pull himself together, and in the heat of the moment, made harsh life-changing decisions.
On his journey to self discovery, he unexpectedly met the lively, sassy and opinionated Hailey. She radiates energy and is on her way to fight for her fathers's survival.
They start out on what will be a journey of healing, of putting together al the pieces and building one puzzle.
I enjoyed the easy banter, the teasing and flirting playfulness between them. I laughed, cried and was inspired by their story. I applaud Haiey's courage and boldness in which she fights for her father. If cancer has touched your life, you will understand the heartache and pain, this disease brings. But this is a story of hope! Of survival and not giving up. Of recognizing the good stuff, that was right in front of you the whole time!
I wanted to find out more and was anxious to find out the whole truth behind Tyler's story. It was not predictable and I had to finish this book right away!
I do not like that the blurb refers to Tyler as a "boy". Someone in their mid twenties is not a boy, and Tyler is a 100percent pure hot-blooded, awesome man!
I also recommend that you read the previous books in this series, in order to understand Tyler, his choices, fears and insecurities. And, thus not hating Penny too much!lol
I am looking forward to read more of ms Smoak's books and feel privileged that I have received a ARC copy of this book.
Tyler is kind of a lost soul, seeking for something meaningful after 3 years of yearning for someone, who only saw him as a friend. After she got married he decided to pull himself together, and in the heat of the moment, made harsh life-changing decisions.
On his journey to self discovery, he unexpectedly met the lively, sassy and opinionated Hailey. She radiates energy and is on her way to fight for her fathers's survival.
They start out on what will be a journey of healing, of putting together al the pieces and building one puzzle.
I enjoyed the easy banter, the teasing and flirting playfulness between them. I laughed, cried and was inspired by their story. I applaud Haiey's courage and boldness in which she fights for her father. If cancer has touched your life, you will understand the heartache and pain, this disease brings. But this is a story of hope! Of survival and not giving up. Of recognizing the good stuff, that was right in front of you the whole time!
I wanted to find out more and was anxious to find out the whole truth behind Tyler's story. It was not predictable and I had to finish this book right away!
I do not like that the blurb refers to Tyler as a "boy". Someone in their mid twenties is not a boy, and Tyler is a 100percent pure hot-blooded, awesome man!
I also recommend that you read the previous books in this series, in order to understand Tyler, his choices, fears and insecurities. And, thus not hating Penny too much!lol
I am looking forward to read more of ms Smoak's books and feel privileged that I have received a ARC copy of this book.
October 10, 2018
I'm ashamed that I was bored enough to read this whole book. Thank goodness it cost me nothing but time. It was a complete trainwreck; it was so bad, I couldn't look away. The individual slices of background story, not so bad, but mashing it all together was a complete mess. Hailey was a complete two-faced hurricane, having no clue about what she thought or felt. Her entire point of view would change from one minute to the next. Any person that comes home from college and learns that their father is dying of cancer and decides to leave less than an hour later with a perfect stranger is a complete idiot. She'd been away from home for years already and instead of staying and spending time with her father and helping the business, she gets a harebrained idea to get it from the mother that abandoned her 15 years ago? PLEASE. Where on earth does that make sense? And Tyler?? It's not news that people are stupid when they think they love someone, but the backstory of his "love" aka obsession with Penny and the fact that he RAN like a child when the police wanted to talk to him? Wth? These are children, not adults. Penny also completely led him on and treated him poorly and yet she was so beautiful and perfect later? Ugh. Let me also mention the author's absolute inability to create a viable timeline. Hailey and Tyler knew each other for a week. Less than a week later, she knows she's pregnant and is having morning sickness? Are you kidding me? For good measure, I'll also add the horrible language and terrible, pointless sex scenes.
February 3, 2017
I've discovered The Hunted series a bit later, but still managed to catch on before the release of the last book Erupted. I've read almost all of Ivy Smoak's books since then and I really have to honestly say, they ALL never disappoint. I had a very high expectation going into the book and.... IT WAS FAN-freaking-TASTIC.
Heart wrenching sobbing, heartfelt 'aww's, an emotional rollercoaster that'll not only give you satisfaction but bring you on a journey.
I feel like Route 66 is a really amazing icon for this book. It is known to be the End of the trail but this book showed me that the power of love can give you the strength to start again, to show you that sometimes the end is only the beginning.
“For me, the sun rose and set with your smile. Don't ever stop smiling. Don't ever change, Hails. I love you so much, honey." He touched the bottom of my chin again.
Heart wrenching sobbing, heartfelt 'aww's, an emotional rollercoaster that'll not only give you satisfaction but bring you on a journey.
I feel like Route 66 is a really amazing icon for this book. It is known to be the End of the trail but this book showed me that the power of love can give you the strength to start again, to show you that sometimes the end is only the beginning.
“But I didn't stay because this isn't goodbye. It's only just the beginning.”
Read
October 7, 2018So repetitive and zoo much internal monologue, but I enjoyed the beginning. I did something I rarely do with books, I skipped ahead a few pages in a couple of parts I just couldn't take the rehashing and the telling vs showing. Note, this stayed or as a fairly wholesome story but got pretty trashy in terms of dialogue - guess that's ponchos with an author name like ivy smoak!
October 31, 2020
I always liked Tyler’s character in the Hunted and Light to my Darkness series... but he also annoyed me because he was always ‘the other guy’... the lovesick puppy that lusted over the girl he was never going to win over. Yes, Penny led him on a little but he wanted what he couldn’t have.
***Warning.... SPOILERS BEYOND THIS POINT!***
So... this book gives him his own story and opens our eyes as to who Tyler really is. Could he possibly actually be as sweet as he is made out to be in the other books?
Well... yes he bloomin’ well is!! He’s so utterly adorable. More so in some ways than James. Tyler isn’t the brooding, sexy, mysterious guy... he’s fun, light hearted and deeply caring. Sure, he’s been hurt.. in many ways , even before he met Penny and that’s why he clung to his love for her even though he knew he’d always lose to James. He needed that love for her to keep his heart from dealing with the anguish of his past.
Along comes Hailey... beautiful, bright and confident. There is an instant attraction between them when he unexpectedly walks into her bar one day. But she’s about to have her life ripped apart and she needs to take drastic measures to fix it before everything she knows is going to be lost. Cue an impromptu road trip with this beautiful stranger.
The inevitable happens and they start to develop strong and overwhelming feelings for each other... but their both running from something that could jeopardise their future together so they avoid acting on their desire for each other until fate throws them a hand and propels their relationship into full on overdrive. Their encounters are hot and sexy and full of passion and want.
As the trip nears its conclusion they can no longer hide their needs and wants for each other. For Tyler, Hailey is everything and more... even more than Penny and he realises that his feelings for Hails are deeper than he ever felt for the woman he thought he loved. But, does Hails feel the same?
When the trip comes to end they struggle to part from each other but with Tyler’s commitment to his new career seemingly unbreakable... they vow to stay in touch until they can at last be together.... but it’s not going to be that simple... let’s face it.. life never is.
When it all falls apart for them both... will their love be enough to bring them back together?
It was a little strange reading this after already reading all the Hunted and Light to my Darkness series because I already knew what happens to Tyler and Hails... but it was great to get to know their story and how they end up together... and it has completely changed my opinion of Tyler... particularly in the LTMD series because now I know just how strong his feelings are for Hailey and that he really is no threat to James and Penny’s relationship... he’s well and truly moved on and he’s head-over-heels in love with Hails.
Overall... a fabulous book. Really enjoyed this one.. like the rest of the Men of Manhattan series. It’s wonderful that Ivy gave these subsidiary characters a story in their own right. Makes me appreciate the whole series that but more.
One suggestion though Ivy... you need a better proof reader as there are lots of little mistakes.
A few plot holes though... the Military would not have been able to destroy his file regardless of the reason for him being refused entry. It would have to remain on file... they wouldn’t have been able to give her the information, but to destroy the file and have no record of his enlistment.. that just wouldn’t happen.
Pregnancy... not usually detectable using over the counter tests within two weeks of sleeping with someone and morning sickness doesn’t usually come on until a few later than that.
He gave her his credit cards but no pin? How could she possibly use them? And, they didn’t exchange numbers... they have this incredible love affair, vow to stay together but don’t even get each other’s details. Hhhhhmmmm, in this day and age of modern technology and literally relying on our phones for everything, I struggled a little with this.
Otherwise... I loved it.
***Warning.... SPOILERS BEYOND THIS POINT!***
So... this book gives him his own story and opens our eyes as to who Tyler really is. Could he possibly actually be as sweet as he is made out to be in the other books?
Well... yes he bloomin’ well is!! He’s so utterly adorable. More so in some ways than James. Tyler isn’t the brooding, sexy, mysterious guy... he’s fun, light hearted and deeply caring. Sure, he’s been hurt.. in many ways , even before he met Penny and that’s why he clung to his love for her even though he knew he’d always lose to James. He needed that love for her to keep his heart from dealing with the anguish of his past.
Along comes Hailey... beautiful, bright and confident. There is an instant attraction between them when he unexpectedly walks into her bar one day. But she’s about to have her life ripped apart and she needs to take drastic measures to fix it before everything she knows is going to be lost. Cue an impromptu road trip with this beautiful stranger.
The inevitable happens and they start to develop strong and overwhelming feelings for each other... but their both running from something that could jeopardise their future together so they avoid acting on their desire for each other until fate throws them a hand and propels their relationship into full on overdrive. Their encounters are hot and sexy and full of passion and want.
As the trip nears its conclusion they can no longer hide their needs and wants for each other. For Tyler, Hailey is everything and more... even more than Penny and he realises that his feelings for Hails are deeper than he ever felt for the woman he thought he loved. But, does Hails feel the same?
When the trip comes to end they struggle to part from each other but with Tyler’s commitment to his new career seemingly unbreakable... they vow to stay in touch until they can at last be together.... but it’s not going to be that simple... let’s face it.. life never is.
When it all falls apart for them both... will their love be enough to bring them back together?
It was a little strange reading this after already reading all the Hunted and Light to my Darkness series because I already knew what happens to Tyler and Hails... but it was great to get to know their story and how they end up together... and it has completely changed my opinion of Tyler... particularly in the LTMD series because now I know just how strong his feelings are for Hailey and that he really is no threat to James and Penny’s relationship... he’s well and truly moved on and he’s head-over-heels in love with Hails.
Overall... a fabulous book. Really enjoyed this one.. like the rest of the Men of Manhattan series. It’s wonderful that Ivy gave these subsidiary characters a story in their own right. Makes me appreciate the whole series that but more.
One suggestion though Ivy... you need a better proof reader as there are lots of little mistakes.
A few plot holes though... the Military would not have been able to destroy his file regardless of the reason for him being refused entry. It would have to remain on file... they wouldn’t have been able to give her the information, but to destroy the file and have no record of his enlistment.. that just wouldn’t happen.
Pregnancy... not usually detectable using over the counter tests within two weeks of sleeping with someone and morning sickness doesn’t usually come on until a few later than that.
He gave her his credit cards but no pin? How could she possibly use them? And, they didn’t exchange numbers... they have this incredible love affair, vow to stay together but don’t even get each other’s details. Hhhhhmmmm, in this day and age of modern technology and literally relying on our phones for everything, I struggled a little with this.
Otherwise... I loved it.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
January 8, 2017
*** I received an advanced copy and voluntarily chose to review it ***
(100% spoiler-free review)
Missing Pieces is a spin-off of Ivy Smoak's The Hunted series and for those who have not read that series, this can absolutely be read as a standalone story (although I highly recommend reading it first if you have a chance because it is sooooooo good and you'll really get to know Tyler's backstory). But for those who have read The Hunted series, Missing Pieces is what we've all been waiting for. We finally get Tyler's story and find out what happens when he leaves town after Penny's wedding. This story is emotional and heartbreakingly beautiful but it is also super sexy as only Smoak can write. I laughed, I cried and I couldn't put it down. Be prepared with some tissues because this one will definitely have you shedding quite a few tears!
Tyler Stevens is a broken man---completely lost and drowning in his own misery. He's been through so much and is just trying to claw his way out of his own grief. He has secrets and pain he holds deep, ones that he has carried for years. Hailey Shaw is on the verge of her own grief and grasping for the one ray of hope that can save those she loves. There are instant sparks between them and as they embark on their cross-country adventure, both Tyler and Hailey start to open up to each other and what they find is something neither knew that they wanted or needed.....their "missing piece".
It's not all smooth sailing for these two. Their story has many bumps, twists and turns that keep everything flowing perfectly. While the story takes place over the span of a few short weeks, the intensity of Tyler and Hailey's relationship is completely believable and I couldn't help but root for them every step of the way. Through their laughter and tears, it was evident all along that these two were meant for one another.
Missing Pieces takes the reader on a journey of self-discovery, healing and finding happiness. It's one of those stories that stay with you long after you finish the last page. It's beautiful, poignant and a definite 5-star must-read!
(100% spoiler-free review)
Missing Pieces is a spin-off of Ivy Smoak's The Hunted series and for those who have not read that series, this can absolutely be read as a standalone story (although I highly recommend reading it first if you have a chance because it is sooooooo good and you'll really get to know Tyler's backstory). But for those who have read The Hunted series, Missing Pieces is what we've all been waiting for. We finally get Tyler's story and find out what happens when he leaves town after Penny's wedding. This story is emotional and heartbreakingly beautiful but it is also super sexy as only Smoak can write. I laughed, I cried and I couldn't put it down. Be prepared with some tissues because this one will definitely have you shedding quite a few tears!
Tyler Stevens is a broken man---completely lost and drowning in his own misery. He's been through so much and is just trying to claw his way out of his own grief. He has secrets and pain he holds deep, ones that he has carried for years. Hailey Shaw is on the verge of her own grief and grasping for the one ray of hope that can save those she loves. There are instant sparks between them and as they embark on their cross-country adventure, both Tyler and Hailey start to open up to each other and what they find is something neither knew that they wanted or needed.....their "missing piece".
"He was the light to my darkness. He was the missing piece to my puzzle. He was it."
It's not all smooth sailing for these two. Their story has many bumps, twists and turns that keep everything flowing perfectly. While the story takes place over the span of a few short weeks, the intensity of Tyler and Hailey's relationship is completely believable and I couldn't help but root for them every step of the way. Through their laughter and tears, it was evident all along that these two were meant for one another.
Missing Pieces takes the reader on a journey of self-discovery, healing and finding happiness. It's one of those stories that stay with you long after you finish the last page. It's beautiful, poignant and a definite 5-star must-read!
January 1, 2022
This book simply did not need to be as long as it ended up being. So. Many. Things. Happening.
I quite enjoyed Smoak’s writing, it was... digestible, yknow? Definitely no wattpad vibes.
Unfortunately the plot itself was weirdly convoluted and somehow so incredibly boring.
So quick recap... H is on a road trip from NYC to Cali, to join the marines. He’s doing this bc he’s heartbroken over some unrequited love for his friend who has just gotten married. On his travels he meets the h who works in her dad’s bar. h needs money for her dad’s cancer treatments and needs to get to Cali to get a loan from a mysterious person (we later learn it’s her mother), so she gatecrashes the H’s trip. And when I say gatecrash, she literally jumps in his car as he’s about to leave the bar she works at and insists he give her a ride across the country. He says ok fine and Love stuff ensues over the following week.
You can kinda get the jist about the kind of character the h is. If annoying h’s who do shit that make zero sense is a hard limit for you, don’t read this book.
If push/pull is also a hard limit, again - turn away.
Bc this book is aaaaaaalladat.
The push pull at the end, I’m guessing was meant to be some sort of climactic angst fest, but was actually just a series of asinine miscommunications. And the miscommunication is RIDICULOUS only on account of it being insanely dumb - I’m talking “spent a week together road tripping, fell in love, agreed to do long distance....... forgot to exchange numbers......... twice...” level dumb. Let’s not forget the h who, upon learning her father has 4 months to live takes off on a road trip to Cali (this was not the annoying part for me)..... and also turns her phone off for a significant part of it (this annoyed the fuck outta me). Of course, because we need drama - the dad dies like 5 mins after she returns home. Oh and surprise she’s also pregnant. But also she hasn’t told H bc he’s disappeared off the face of the earth bc he’s been held on an attempted murder charge in another state (really left field shit, honestly).
I wouldn’t have minded this level of annoyingness had the book been significantly shorter. It just draaaagged for so much of it.
I quite enjoyed Smoak’s writing, it was... digestible, yknow? Definitely no wattpad vibes.
Unfortunately the plot itself was weirdly convoluted and somehow so incredibly boring.
So quick recap... H is on a road trip from NYC to Cali, to join the marines. He’s doing this bc he’s heartbroken over some unrequited love for his friend who has just gotten married. On his travels he meets the h who works in her dad’s bar. h needs money for her dad’s cancer treatments and needs to get to Cali to get a loan from a mysterious person (we later learn it’s her mother), so she gatecrashes the H’s trip. And when I say gatecrash, she literally jumps in his car as he’s about to leave the bar she works at and insists he give her a ride across the country. He says ok fine and Love stuff ensues over the following week.
You can kinda get the jist about the kind of character the h is. If annoying h’s who do shit that make zero sense is a hard limit for you, don’t read this book.
If push/pull is also a hard limit, again - turn away.
Bc this book is aaaaaaalladat.
The push pull at the end, I’m guessing was meant to be some sort of climactic angst fest, but was actually just a series of asinine miscommunications. And the miscommunication is RIDICULOUS only on account of it being insanely dumb - I’m talking “spent a week together road tripping, fell in love, agreed to do long distance....... forgot to exchange numbers......... twice...” level dumb. Let’s not forget the h who, upon learning her father has 4 months to live takes off on a road trip to Cali (this was not the annoying part for me)..... and also turns her phone off for a significant part of it (this annoyed the fuck outta me). Of course, because we need drama - the dad dies like 5 mins after she returns home. Oh and surprise she’s also pregnant. But also she hasn’t told H bc he’s disappeared off the face of the earth bc he’s been held on an attempted murder charge in another state (really left field shit, honestly).
I wouldn’t have minded this level of annoyingness had the book been significantly shorter. It just draaaagged for so much of it.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
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