My Book Reviews
***A Heart to Call Home Reviews***
NetGalley Review by Joc
Not an easy read by a long shot but the story is compelling and the characters drew me in. Jessie Weldon returns to her hometown after her marriage ends knowing that many of the issues that contributed to the breakdown can only be resolved by facing her past. She gets a substitute-teaching job at her old high school only to come face to face with Coach Dakota Scott, not only her childhood crush but also the person partly responsible for her leaving. Dakota has weathered what people have whispered about her, but she herself will never forget.
Both characters are older women who know that so many of their questions can only be answered by each other at the risk of delving into a can of worms. Added to which is their attraction for each other complicating things further. Jessie and Dakota are likeable, which always makes reading more enjoyable for me, with forgivable human failings.
Levig builds the tension, reveals a bit, releases the chokehold and then tightens it up again. It was easy to become invested in their lives and impossible to let go until the end. Fortunately there are some wonderfully gentle moments and lots of steamy scenes to lighten the tension. There is also a lovely background story dealing with their students that adds to the fullness of the tale.
Great read.
4.5 stars rounded up.
Both characters are older women who know that so many of their questions can only be answered by each other at the risk of delving into a can of worms. Added to which is their attraction for each other complicating things further. Jessie and Dakota are likeable, which always makes reading more enjoyable for me, with forgivable human failings.
Levig builds the tension, reveals a bit, releases the chokehold and then tightens it up again. It was easy to become invested in their lives and impossible to let go until the end. Fortunately there are some wonderfully gentle moments and lots of steamy scenes to lighten the tension. There is also a lovely background story dealing with their students that adds to the fullness of the tale.
Great read.
4.5 stars rounded up.
Five Star Review from NetGalley
Jasmine wrote:
This book was EVERYTHING. Another new author for me - it definitely will be the first of many books I hope to read by this author because she's fantastic.
Jessie returns home after years away, to reconnect with the only family she has left, and to heal old wounds. She takes a job as a supply teacher at the local high-school where she runs into Dakota, once her pre-teen crush and now a gym teacher at the same school. Dakota has been living with the weight of a tragedy, followed by years of small-town gossip. When she meets Jessie, she believes that she has a fresh start with a woman who is new to town, and who doesn't know her history. But Jessie is only too familiar with that tragedy. Will the two women be able to let go of that pain? Will their attraction and their feelings for each other be stronger than the pain?
I loved every single detail in this book. I loved the small town vibes. I loved Dakota's family. I loved Jessie's relationship with Curtis. I loved Jessie working with the kids at school. So many feel-good, warm fuzzies. But all that sweetness was perfectly balanced with a healthy dose of angst. My favourite combination! Jessie and Dakota deal with a lot of old hurt and open wounds. The author handled it really well, with compassion, and it was well crafted to show the evolution of their relationship and with the two ladies finally battling and winning against their inner demons.
My god, the sex scenes were brilliant, intimate, and emotional. The combination of raw emotion and grief and new attraction and old attraction just set them on fire!
This book made my cheeks hurt from smiling and my heart hurt for the pain Dakota and Jessie went through. All around excellent story and brilliant story-telling.
I received an ARC via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
This book was EVERYTHING. Another new author for me - it definitely will be the first of many books I hope to read by this author because she's fantastic.
Jessie returns home after years away, to reconnect with the only family she has left, and to heal old wounds. She takes a job as a supply teacher at the local high-school where she runs into Dakota, once her pre-teen crush and now a gym teacher at the same school. Dakota has been living with the weight of a tragedy, followed by years of small-town gossip. When she meets Jessie, she believes that she has a fresh start with a woman who is new to town, and who doesn't know her history. But Jessie is only too familiar with that tragedy. Will the two women be able to let go of that pain? Will their attraction and their feelings for each other be stronger than the pain?
I loved every single detail in this book. I loved the small town vibes. I loved Dakota's family. I loved Jessie's relationship with Curtis. I loved Jessie working with the kids at school. So many feel-good, warm fuzzies. But all that sweetness was perfectly balanced with a healthy dose of angst. My favourite combination! Jessie and Dakota deal with a lot of old hurt and open wounds. The author handled it really well, with compassion, and it was well crafted to show the evolution of their relationship and with the two ladies finally battling and winning against their inner demons.
My god, the sex scenes were brilliant, intimate, and emotional. The combination of raw emotion and grief and new attraction and old attraction just set them on fire!
This book made my cheeks hurt from smiling and my heart hurt for the pain Dakota and Jessie went through. All around excellent story and brilliant story-telling.
I received an ARC via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
From LesRevuer
Review by Rachel Forrester
What a fantastic novel! Jeannie Levig continues to blow me away with her beautiful story telling.
Dakota has lived what most people would consider a privileged and entitled life coming from the prestigious Scott family, known for wealth and philanthropy. Something that she tries to distance herself from as much as possible by working in the local high school as a sports coach instead of in the family business. When Jessica Weldon becomes the new substitute teacher at the school, Dakota is more than a little drawn to Jessica. But when she realises that Jessica’s arrival is tied to a part of Dakota’s dark past, she doesn’t know how to continue on with her seemingly simple life. Can she really forget about the spark she felt with Jessica when it brings back so many hurtful memories?
Jeannie Levig writes conflict between protagonists better than many authors. You can feel the tension coming off the page that added another element to this wonderful novel.
The two protagonists, to an outsider, are not supposed to like each other never mind find each other attractive or have deep feelings. But through a carefully crafted storyline you begin to see all the reasons that they cannot do anything but fall for each other. Don’t get me wrong, it’s a rollercoaster ride to the very end but one your going to want to take in with your eyes open so you don’t miss one small detail.
I really enjoyed both characters and loved getting to know them and their backstories but Jessie in particular was my favourite character.
Her inner conversations with herself were really quite funny and sarcastic at times and I enjoyed the levity because it gave way to the more weighty and significant areas of the story.
The one thing I felt was missing was an epilogue as the ending felt incomplete. I just need more to secure that happily ever after.
I’m eager to see what’s next from Jeannie Levig.
4.5 stars
What a fantastic novel! Jeannie Levig continues to blow me away with her beautiful story telling.
Dakota has lived what most people would consider a privileged and entitled life coming from the prestigious Scott family, known for wealth and philanthropy. Something that she tries to distance herself from as much as possible by working in the local high school as a sports coach instead of in the family business. When Jessica Weldon becomes the new substitute teacher at the school, Dakota is more than a little drawn to Jessica. But when she realises that Jessica’s arrival is tied to a part of Dakota’s dark past, she doesn’t know how to continue on with her seemingly simple life. Can she really forget about the spark she felt with Jessica when it brings back so many hurtful memories?
Jeannie Levig writes conflict between protagonists better than many authors. You can feel the tension coming off the page that added another element to this wonderful novel.
The two protagonists, to an outsider, are not supposed to like each other never mind find each other attractive or have deep feelings. But through a carefully crafted storyline you begin to see all the reasons that they cannot do anything but fall for each other. Don’t get me wrong, it’s a rollercoaster ride to the very end but one your going to want to take in with your eyes open so you don’t miss one small detail.
I really enjoyed both characters and loved getting to know them and their backstories but Jessie in particular was my favourite character.
Her inner conversations with herself were really quite funny and sarcastic at times and I enjoyed the levity because it gave way to the more weighty and significant areas of the story.
The one thing I felt was missing was an epilogue as the ending felt incomplete. I just need more to secure that happily ever after.
I’m eager to see what’s next from Jeannie Levig.
4.5 stars
From LezReviewBooks
A terrible tragedy left teenagers Dakota Scott and Jessie Weldon in opposite sides of a family feud. But after meeting again as adults they are both unable to deny their mutual attraction. Can they explore their feelings further or accept that their past history is an insurmountable obstacle?
This book’s main premise is a difficult starting point for a romance. Can love be built over the flimsy foundations of pain and mistrust, even when events happened many years ago? In ‘A heart to call home’ somehow Ms. Levig does the trick. As Dakota and Jessie get to know each other, they also discover things about themselves which change them profoundly. The main characters embark on a soul searching journey which is moving, poignant and sometimes heart-breaking. The reader joins this emotional rollercoaster suffering and enjoying along with the characters. It is one hell of a ride. My only issue about this book is that the ending seems too abrupt and would have benefited from a bit more development. Despite this, it is a very recommendable read.
Overall, an emotional, compelling romance. 4.5 stars
This book’s main premise is a difficult starting point for a romance. Can love be built over the flimsy foundations of pain and mistrust, even when events happened many years ago? In ‘A heart to call home’ somehow Ms. Levig does the trick. As Dakota and Jessie get to know each other, they also discover things about themselves which change them profoundly. The main characters embark on a soul searching journey which is moving, poignant and sometimes heart-breaking. The reader joins this emotional rollercoaster suffering and enjoying along with the characters. It is one hell of a ride. My only issue about this book is that the ending seems too abrupt and would have benefited from a bit more development. Despite this, it is a very recommendable read.
Overall, an emotional, compelling romance. 4.5 stars
From the Romantic Reader
TiffReads wrote:
Jeannie Levig knows how to develop a character. She weaves her story around her protagonists and draws you right into the amazingness of her stories. I’m never sure where I am going to go, what I’ll read and I can never predict the ending. Levig keeps me guessing throughout the whole book and I love her for it. Romance tends to follow formulas, that’s just how it goes in this genre, but Levig definitely doesn’t play by the rule and loves to add a curve-ball here and there. My goodness, I adore that about her writing!
Jessie Weldon returns to her hometown after spending two decades away. The ending of her marriage forces her to accept that she needs to go back and face the demons of her childhood. Jessie accepts a temporary teaching position at the local high school. She has all but accepted the fate that she will have to face her former crush and the source of a lot of pair Coach Dakota Scott.
Dakota comes from the wealthiest family in the town. Townspeople believe the Scott’s are above the rest and their money can buy them out of anything, even murder. Yeah, the plot thickens. What most people don’t know is that it’s not all it’s cracked up to be a s Scott. Most folks don’t know that the Scott matriarch, Dakota’s mother has schizophrenia. This face has left more scars than anyone can ever imagine and holds a key to what happened that dark night that forever changed the life of both Dakota and Jessie.
Dakota and Jessie face each other, bringing old wounds to the forefront. They both know that that night permanently altered the course of their lives and forever changed them. Delving into the past and accepting the repercussions are the only way either of them can move forward. Add to it that they are both outrageously attracted to each other and you add a whole added dimension to their story.
This is a fantastic story of human emotions, failed pasts and that love can conquer all. Levig does it again with bringing you an amazing story that grips you to the last page. You cannot go wrong with this one.
4.25 out of 5 stars
Jeannie Levig knows how to develop a character. She weaves her story around her protagonists and draws you right into the amazingness of her stories. I’m never sure where I am going to go, what I’ll read and I can never predict the ending. Levig keeps me guessing throughout the whole book and I love her for it. Romance tends to follow formulas, that’s just how it goes in this genre, but Levig definitely doesn’t play by the rule and loves to add a curve-ball here and there. My goodness, I adore that about her writing!
Jessie Weldon returns to her hometown after spending two decades away. The ending of her marriage forces her to accept that she needs to go back and face the demons of her childhood. Jessie accepts a temporary teaching position at the local high school. She has all but accepted the fate that she will have to face her former crush and the source of a lot of pair Coach Dakota Scott.
Dakota comes from the wealthiest family in the town. Townspeople believe the Scott’s are above the rest and their money can buy them out of anything, even murder. Yeah, the plot thickens. What most people don’t know is that it’s not all it’s cracked up to be a s Scott. Most folks don’t know that the Scott matriarch, Dakota’s mother has schizophrenia. This face has left more scars than anyone can ever imagine and holds a key to what happened that dark night that forever changed the life of both Dakota and Jessie.
Dakota and Jessie face each other, bringing old wounds to the forefront. They both know that that night permanently altered the course of their lives and forever changed them. Delving into the past and accepting the repercussions are the only way either of them can move forward. Add to it that they are both outrageously attracted to each other and you add a whole added dimension to their story.
This is a fantastic story of human emotions, failed pasts and that love can conquer all. Levig does it again with bringing you an amazing story that grips you to the last page. You cannot go wrong with this one.
4.25 out of 5 stars
***Into Thin Air Reviews***
Five Star Review
From Reader V:
I loved this latest book from Jeannie Levig. It was both a tender and sweet romance and a nail biting thriller. This book had it all and it was painful to have to put it down, but life isn't simply about reading books.
You've read the blurb about the book so I won't waste my time on it as I am not a professional writer, but I do have some thoughts.
Levig creates a really dreamlike ambiance after Jordan disappears. Hannah moves through the initial days and week in a daze and only the presence of Jordan's best friend, Nikki is what keeps her anchored to her new reality. Levig uses the most amazing imagery in all of her books that just seem to set the mood quite perfectly. Waking up to yet another day not knowing what has become of her girlfriend, Hannah pours herself a cup of coffee and adds cream. Levig writes, "She watched the tendrils of white swirl into the black. It looked as though the world had slowed down. She could see each spiral movement as the two liquids blended. Her thoughts slowed to match it." There is delicious imagery like this throughout the book which really backs up what the characters are saying. You can have the wittiest, sexiest and smartest dialogue out there but if you can't back it up with imagery that sparks your readers' imaginations than its like just having a bunch of empty hangers in your closet with no clothes.
This book is very intense because it deals with abduction, psychological and physical torture and it touches on sex addiction. Levig handles these issues deftly. She doesn't exploit the situation that Jordan gets forced into nor does she make it seem like she deserves it for all her years of being a player. The fact that Jordan had an inkling that she might have a sex addiction really had me feeling nothing but compassion for her and that was even before her "programming" started. While some would see Jordan as the "bad girl", I saw her as a wounded woman classically using sex to fill a void in her soul created at some point in her past when she realized she was not loved.
The relationship that grows between Nikki and Hannah was brilliantly structured. Nikki had known all along that Jordan had been cheating on Hannah and when Hannah found out she finds her rage and throws Nikki and her friendship out. I thought, "Good for you." Nikki needed some time away from Hannah to reflect on her behavior and Hannah needed some time to simply feel her rage at both women and at herself for being so clueless. Once Nikki and Hannah had some time away from each other, they began a very lovely courtship. Levig provides a wealth of backstory to help the reader understand the emotional risks each of them are taking and bless her soul, she has her characters take it slow. When they finally confess their love it is so worth it.
But it gets better! That lovely romance takes place while Playgirl Jordan is fighting for her life at the hands of a crazy religious zealot who believes he can "cure" homosexuality. The "treatments" Jordan must endure are hideous, but her strength of will keeps her hanging on until she can get help.
The book ends with all three women together, supporting each other and bringing closure to their past relationships and pledging to start over from a place of health and truth.
I loved this book and highly recommend it. Don't let my average writing skills sway you from this very satisfying read.
I loved this latest book from Jeannie Levig. It was both a tender and sweet romance and a nail biting thriller. This book had it all and it was painful to have to put it down, but life isn't simply about reading books.
You've read the blurb about the book so I won't waste my time on it as I am not a professional writer, but I do have some thoughts.
Levig creates a really dreamlike ambiance after Jordan disappears. Hannah moves through the initial days and week in a daze and only the presence of Jordan's best friend, Nikki is what keeps her anchored to her new reality. Levig uses the most amazing imagery in all of her books that just seem to set the mood quite perfectly. Waking up to yet another day not knowing what has become of her girlfriend, Hannah pours herself a cup of coffee and adds cream. Levig writes, "She watched the tendrils of white swirl into the black. It looked as though the world had slowed down. She could see each spiral movement as the two liquids blended. Her thoughts slowed to match it." There is delicious imagery like this throughout the book which really backs up what the characters are saying. You can have the wittiest, sexiest and smartest dialogue out there but if you can't back it up with imagery that sparks your readers' imaginations than its like just having a bunch of empty hangers in your closet with no clothes.
This book is very intense because it deals with abduction, psychological and physical torture and it touches on sex addiction. Levig handles these issues deftly. She doesn't exploit the situation that Jordan gets forced into nor does she make it seem like she deserves it for all her years of being a player. The fact that Jordan had an inkling that she might have a sex addiction really had me feeling nothing but compassion for her and that was even before her "programming" started. While some would see Jordan as the "bad girl", I saw her as a wounded woman classically using sex to fill a void in her soul created at some point in her past when she realized she was not loved.
The relationship that grows between Nikki and Hannah was brilliantly structured. Nikki had known all along that Jordan had been cheating on Hannah and when Hannah found out she finds her rage and throws Nikki and her friendship out. I thought, "Good for you." Nikki needed some time away from Hannah to reflect on her behavior and Hannah needed some time to simply feel her rage at both women and at herself for being so clueless. Once Nikki and Hannah had some time away from each other, they began a very lovely courtship. Levig provides a wealth of backstory to help the reader understand the emotional risks each of them are taking and bless her soul, she has her characters take it slow. When they finally confess their love it is so worth it.
But it gets better! That lovely romance takes place while Playgirl Jordan is fighting for her life at the hands of a crazy religious zealot who believes he can "cure" homosexuality. The "treatments" Jordan must endure are hideous, but her strength of will keeps her hanging on until she can get help.
The book ends with all three women together, supporting each other and bringing closure to their past relationships and pledging to start over from a place of health and truth.
I loved this book and highly recommend it. Don't let my average writing skills sway you from this very satisfying read.
Five Star Review from NetGalley
Eh Stevens (A Girl Can Dream) reviewed:
Daring and Different.
Kudos to Jeannie Levig for her fearless efforts to push the boundaries of the standard lesbian love story. Into Thin Air is so much more than a vanilla romance. It’s a daring look at infidelity and sexual addiction. Its also a terrifying look at how events unimagined can affect someone’s life.
The blurb for this novel is vague but conveys the basics. When Hannah’s girlfriend Jordan disappears from her life one day she and Jordan’s friend Nikki discover they both have much to learn from the disappearance. In alternating chapters the reader is shown what has become of Jordan and how effective forces unknown have isolated her from her former life.
Hannah and Nikki discover a lot about themselves and each other as their friendship develops into something more. Levig is skilled at writing character development and the reader is drawn like a magnet to this budding relationship. She adds enough secondary characters to give this couple a solid foundation and the chapters tracking their love story are a pleasure to read.
Levig dares to interrupt a standard romance with jarring chapters involving the missing Jordan. The blurb hints at Jordan being a failed monogamist. As readers, we often relish the backlash on the cheater in a relationship. Rachel Spangler’s stellar Does She Love You? comes to mind. We want our happy ever after and we don’t want the cheater to ever be happy again. What happens to Jordan in this novel shakes and unsettles the reader. It is almost unimaginable, unfathomable that something like this could happen in a first world country in the 21st century. It is a disturbing look at what has happened in the past and thanks to the current political situation in the United States, what could be possible in the present. A cautionary tale to be sure.
Levig has attempted something daring and different with Into the Air. It is a novel like nothing I have read before. As much as I enjoyed watching the relationship between Nikki and Hannah develop I found myself speeding through their scenes to get back to Jordan. It made for a read that will be uncomfortable for many but compelling nonetheless.
5 stars for the courage and conviction to broaden the often-predictable genre of Lesbian Romance.
Daring and Different.
Kudos to Jeannie Levig for her fearless efforts to push the boundaries of the standard lesbian love story. Into Thin Air is so much more than a vanilla romance. It’s a daring look at infidelity and sexual addiction. Its also a terrifying look at how events unimagined can affect someone’s life.
The blurb for this novel is vague but conveys the basics. When Hannah’s girlfriend Jordan disappears from her life one day she and Jordan’s friend Nikki discover they both have much to learn from the disappearance. In alternating chapters the reader is shown what has become of Jordan and how effective forces unknown have isolated her from her former life.
Hannah and Nikki discover a lot about themselves and each other as their friendship develops into something more. Levig is skilled at writing character development and the reader is drawn like a magnet to this budding relationship. She adds enough secondary characters to give this couple a solid foundation and the chapters tracking their love story are a pleasure to read.
Levig dares to interrupt a standard romance with jarring chapters involving the missing Jordan. The blurb hints at Jordan being a failed monogamist. As readers, we often relish the backlash on the cheater in a relationship. Rachel Spangler’s stellar Does She Love You? comes to mind. We want our happy ever after and we don’t want the cheater to ever be happy again. What happens to Jordan in this novel shakes and unsettles the reader. It is almost unimaginable, unfathomable that something like this could happen in a first world country in the 21st century. It is a disturbing look at what has happened in the past and thanks to the current political situation in the United States, what could be possible in the present. A cautionary tale to be sure.
Levig has attempted something daring and different with Into the Air. It is a novel like nothing I have read before. As much as I enjoyed watching the relationship between Nikki and Hannah develop I found myself speeding through their scenes to get back to Jordan. It made for a read that will be uncomfortable for many but compelling nonetheless.
5 stars for the courage and conviction to broaden the often-predictable genre of Lesbian Romance.
Five Star Review from Loek Krancher, Reader
Unforgettable and deeply moving!
A beautiful, compassionate story about friendship, infidelity, conflicted feelings, identity, love, revenge, deep rooted bigotry, strength and so much more. Sometimes heartbreaking, shocking, overwhelming at times but written with genuine empathy. A real page turner and it touch me straight in my heart. Excellent written and with a fabulous heart warming love story. I love it!
A beautiful, compassionate story about friendship, infidelity, conflicted feelings, identity, love, revenge, deep rooted bigotry, strength and so much more. Sometimes heartbreaking, shocking, overwhelming at times but written with genuine empathy. A real page turner and it touch me straight in my heart. Excellent written and with a fabulous heart warming love story. I love it!
From the Romantic Reader
TiffReads wrote:
Two things are apparent to me after reading Jeannie Levig’s three novels. 1. She is an absolutely fantastic writer. 2. She is anything but formulaic. Every single one of her books has been good, but all so different. This writer knows how to drawn emotion from her readers.
Infidelity, a hard subject to tackle, right. You want to hate the cheater, you want them to be punished and feel remorse, because, well they suck as a human. You want the cheated to find happiness, to move past her pain and soar to new heights. That’s what have in Into Thin Air, but in a dark, gritty way.
Hannah Lewis and Jordan Webber have been together three years. The high school guidance counselor with all-American good looks with the broody, but kind civil rights lawyer. Sounds great on paper. Here is the caveat. Jordan likes Hannah, but she doesn’t love her. She has a dark side that demands being fed. So while Hannah lives in her happy, self-absorbed bubble, Jordan cheats with every woman she can. She keeps a part of herself removed from Hannah and their easy/fun relationship, she doesn’t feel remorse, she is who she is and she will have what she desires. Sooooo, Jordan is a giant a$$hole. She also vanishes into thin air one morning. Gone!
Nicki Medina is Jordan’s bestie. She is the one person who knows how Jordan really operates. She doesn’t know all of the secrets of Jordan, one can only imagine how many there really are, but she does know more than anyone else. Nicki had pulled away from Hannah and Jordan the couple, not willing to watch the betrayal of a good woman from the sidelines. She comes back into Hannah’s life when Jordan goes missing without a trace.
This story is truly multifaceted. You have the loss of Jordan to Hannah and Nicki and the panic as to what has happened. Was she killed, abducted, has she run away. Where is she, why… This panic state of emotions. You also have the uncovering of absolute betrayal that Hannah is completely blindsided by and the conflicting emotions that come with it.
Hannah and Nicki are bonded by this nightmarish event. They become to rely on each other for strength and support. You feel them changing over time and becoming more than just friend. Levig carefully crafts this relationship and you, as the reader, are absorbed in their slow burn romance.
Where is a$$hat Jordan? That’s where it goes dark and sinister. I’m not going to tell you this part, I will say you wouldn’t wish this on your worst enemy.
I told you it was multifaceted! Levig challenges you with this book. This story is like a pendulum of emotions, so well crafted that you can’t stop even when it gets difficult to read Jordan’s plight. This is a really fantastic book, you haven’t read anything like this one, I promise.
Two things are apparent to me after reading Jeannie Levig’s three novels. 1. She is an absolutely fantastic writer. 2. She is anything but formulaic. Every single one of her books has been good, but all so different. This writer knows how to drawn emotion from her readers.
Infidelity, a hard subject to tackle, right. You want to hate the cheater, you want them to be punished and feel remorse, because, well they suck as a human. You want the cheated to find happiness, to move past her pain and soar to new heights. That’s what have in Into Thin Air, but in a dark, gritty way.
Hannah Lewis and Jordan Webber have been together three years. The high school guidance counselor with all-American good looks with the broody, but kind civil rights lawyer. Sounds great on paper. Here is the caveat. Jordan likes Hannah, but she doesn’t love her. She has a dark side that demands being fed. So while Hannah lives in her happy, self-absorbed bubble, Jordan cheats with every woman she can. She keeps a part of herself removed from Hannah and their easy/fun relationship, she doesn’t feel remorse, she is who she is and she will have what she desires. Sooooo, Jordan is a giant a$$hole. She also vanishes into thin air one morning. Gone!
Nicki Medina is Jordan’s bestie. She is the one person who knows how Jordan really operates. She doesn’t know all of the secrets of Jordan, one can only imagine how many there really are, but she does know more than anyone else. Nicki had pulled away from Hannah and Jordan the couple, not willing to watch the betrayal of a good woman from the sidelines. She comes back into Hannah’s life when Jordan goes missing without a trace.
This story is truly multifaceted. You have the loss of Jordan to Hannah and Nicki and the panic as to what has happened. Was she killed, abducted, has she run away. Where is she, why… This panic state of emotions. You also have the uncovering of absolute betrayal that Hannah is completely blindsided by and the conflicting emotions that come with it.
Hannah and Nicki are bonded by this nightmarish event. They become to rely on each other for strength and support. You feel them changing over time and becoming more than just friend. Levig carefully crafts this relationship and you, as the reader, are absorbed in their slow burn romance.
Where is a$$hat Jordan? That’s where it goes dark and sinister. I’m not going to tell you this part, I will say you wouldn’t wish this on your worst enemy.
I told you it was multifaceted! Levig challenges you with this book. This story is like a pendulum of emotions, so well crafted that you can’t stop even when it gets difficult to read Jordan’s plight. This is a really fantastic book, you haven’t read anything like this one, I promise.
From the Lesbian Review
April wrote:
Into Thin Air by Jeannie Levig is a story about family ties, facing past issues so that you can live fully in the present moment, taking responsibility for past mistakes and learning how to love someone and be loved in return.All is well in Hannah Lewis’s world until her lover Jordan is declared as a missing person. Jordan disappears without a trace and Hannah decides to team up with Jordan’s best friend, Nikki. Hannah learns a lot about herself throughout the traumatic ordeal of Jordan’s disappearance. Hannah questions everything she thought she knew about Jordan when she realizes that she barely knows the person she lives with.
Jordan Webber is a well-known civil rights lawyer who just cannot stay faithful to her lover. She harbors many secrets but none of the secrets she hoards are responsible for the predicament she is in. Jordan is snatched away from the life she once enjoyed. She battles furiously to hold onto her sanity and she also questions all of the choices she has made in life. Will Jordan ever be able to return home again? Would she still be the same person she was before her life was tilted upside down?
The Characters
Hannah Lewis is a guidance counselor at a high school. Hannah is such a darling! She is fun-loving and adorable. Even though Hannah can be a bit self-centered at times, I really connected with her the most because Hannah owned and expressed her feelings no matter how painful they were. My heart really went out to Hannah because she is plagued by insecurities from her childhood that threatened to destroy whatever future happiness she hopes to achieve.
Jordan Webber is a successful civil rights attorney. She is as passionate about her career as she is about the numerous women she pursues. Jordan lives a double life and this causes tremendous heartache and pain for those who are closest to her. At first I despised Jordan until I found out why she acts the way she does, then my heart was overflowing with empathy for her.
Last but not least is my favorite character in this wonderful story! Nikki is a self-employed and very talented photographer; she is also Jordan’s best friend. Nikki is such an affable, honest, loving and compassionate woman. Nikki gives so much support and care to Hannah while she is at the lowest point in her life. The way that Nikki gives 110% of her love, time, commitment and loyalty to her family and friends endeared her to me.
The Writing Style
Jeannie Levig created such a poignant story that drew so many intense emotions out of me. Each of her characters were so realistic with their flaws and unique personalities traits and I felt so close to each of them because of this. The author described each situation in vivid detail and the fluent dialogue between the various characters kept me intrigued and wanting more.
The Pros
I really enjoy books with strong characters and their strength can come in myriad forms. In this story, I loved the fact that the women excelled in intellectual, creative and helping professions.
The Cons
There are detailed descriptions of psychological and physical abuse within the story.
The Conclusion
This story surprised me on so many levels because it is one of the few books that I have ever read that threw all of my expectations out of the window. Nothing is typical or run of the mill in this novel. I have cycled between delight, outrage and sorrow throughout this story and I loved every word of this book because it sends several messages and it is so worth the read. I can wholeheartedly recommend this book to anyone who loves an intriguing mystery/thriller story with life lessons thrown in for good measure.
Into Thin Air by Jeannie Levig is a story about family ties, facing past issues so that you can live fully in the present moment, taking responsibility for past mistakes and learning how to love someone and be loved in return.All is well in Hannah Lewis’s world until her lover Jordan is declared as a missing person. Jordan disappears without a trace and Hannah decides to team up with Jordan’s best friend, Nikki. Hannah learns a lot about herself throughout the traumatic ordeal of Jordan’s disappearance. Hannah questions everything she thought she knew about Jordan when she realizes that she barely knows the person she lives with.
Jordan Webber is a well-known civil rights lawyer who just cannot stay faithful to her lover. She harbors many secrets but none of the secrets she hoards are responsible for the predicament she is in. Jordan is snatched away from the life she once enjoyed. She battles furiously to hold onto her sanity and she also questions all of the choices she has made in life. Will Jordan ever be able to return home again? Would she still be the same person she was before her life was tilted upside down?
The Characters
Hannah Lewis is a guidance counselor at a high school. Hannah is such a darling! She is fun-loving and adorable. Even though Hannah can be a bit self-centered at times, I really connected with her the most because Hannah owned and expressed her feelings no matter how painful they were. My heart really went out to Hannah because she is plagued by insecurities from her childhood that threatened to destroy whatever future happiness she hopes to achieve.
Jordan Webber is a successful civil rights attorney. She is as passionate about her career as she is about the numerous women she pursues. Jordan lives a double life and this causes tremendous heartache and pain for those who are closest to her. At first I despised Jordan until I found out why she acts the way she does, then my heart was overflowing with empathy for her.
Last but not least is my favorite character in this wonderful story! Nikki is a self-employed and very talented photographer; she is also Jordan’s best friend. Nikki is such an affable, honest, loving and compassionate woman. Nikki gives so much support and care to Hannah while she is at the lowest point in her life. The way that Nikki gives 110% of her love, time, commitment and loyalty to her family and friends endeared her to me.
The Writing Style
Jeannie Levig created such a poignant story that drew so many intense emotions out of me. Each of her characters were so realistic with their flaws and unique personalities traits and I felt so close to each of them because of this. The author described each situation in vivid detail and the fluent dialogue between the various characters kept me intrigued and wanting more.
The Pros
I really enjoy books with strong characters and their strength can come in myriad forms. In this story, I loved the fact that the women excelled in intellectual, creative and helping professions.
The Cons
There are detailed descriptions of psychological and physical abuse within the story.
The Conclusion
This story surprised me on so many levels because it is one of the few books that I have ever read that threw all of my expectations out of the window. Nothing is typical or run of the mill in this novel. I have cycled between delight, outrage and sorrow throughout this story and I loved every word of this book because it sends several messages and it is so worth the read. I can wholeheartedly recommend this book to anyone who loves an intriguing mystery/thriller story with life lessons thrown in for good measure.
***Embracing the Dawn Reviews***
Five Star Review from Good Reads for Embracing the Dawn
Tara rated it 5 STARS
I was actually a proofreader on this book, so I can't review it at The Lesbian Review. However, I loved it so much, that I have to talk about it.
Embracing the Dawn a rich girl/poor girl like I've never quite seen before. Jinx has been out of prison for three years, for a crime she actually did commit, but as a young and stupid youth. She's tried reconnecting with her half sister, but without any interest there, the only family she has are her closest friends.
E. J. is a lesbian, but her kids don't know it. Her job takes her out of town a lot and one-night stands are enough to keep the itch sufficiently scratched. One night at a bar, however, she meets Jinx, and takes her back to her hotel room for a night of fantastic sex. Little does she know that Jinx's niece is marrying her son in two days. E. J. can't seem to keep Jinx out of her head though, so there's only one thing to do: find her and see if maybe they can hook up again.
There's a lot to love about this book. Jinx and E. J. have some high-quality banter and flirting, Jinx is a total sweetheart, and it's just a lovely, solidly paced romance. I especially loved how the level of detail for each sex scene was determined by where they were at in the relationship. I think that was a stroke of genius on the author's part and makes me want to read more by her.
I loved this book and I totally recommend it. It has some small things here and there that didn't really do it for me, but nothing worth actually noting, and I'll definitely be reading this one again.
I was actually a proofreader on this book, so I can't review it at The Lesbian Review. However, I loved it so much, that I have to talk about it.
Embracing the Dawn a rich girl/poor girl like I've never quite seen before. Jinx has been out of prison for three years, for a crime she actually did commit, but as a young and stupid youth. She's tried reconnecting with her half sister, but without any interest there, the only family she has are her closest friends.
E. J. is a lesbian, but her kids don't know it. Her job takes her out of town a lot and one-night stands are enough to keep the itch sufficiently scratched. One night at a bar, however, she meets Jinx, and takes her back to her hotel room for a night of fantastic sex. Little does she know that Jinx's niece is marrying her son in two days. E. J. can't seem to keep Jinx out of her head though, so there's only one thing to do: find her and see if maybe they can hook up again.
There's a lot to love about this book. Jinx and E. J. have some high-quality banter and flirting, Jinx is a total sweetheart, and it's just a lovely, solidly paced romance. I especially loved how the level of detail for each sex scene was determined by where they were at in the relationship. I think that was a stroke of genius on the author's part and makes me want to read more by her.
I loved this book and I totally recommend it. It has some small things here and there that didn't really do it for me, but nothing worth actually noting, and I'll definitely be reading this one again.
5 Star Review from Lesreveur
Without a doubt a 5 star novel.
Embracing the Dawn was written beautifully and it has slipped straight into my ‘Favourite’ and ‘Must read again’ shelves on Goodreads.
I was quite taken by Jinx Tanner’s story. Her backstory was what gripped me from chapter one. Every time she explained details from her past I was in tears at her struggles and bravery. She was quite a woman someone that I would genuinely love to know. She comes from such a wounded past and deserves the happiness that She and E.J can have. Unfortunately E.J has her own family drama that is stopping her becoming her true self and making things difficult for her and Jinx to be together.
I absolutely loved this book. It was so raw and honest. The story was very believable and I think that’s what has stood out from most books I’ve read recently. Bold Stokes Books have really upped the ante recently with there Authors. This was a fantastic novel. I was gripped from the beginning.
Can’t wait to see what’s next from Jeannie Levig.
5 stars.
***Threads of the Heart Reviews***
Five Star Review from Inked Rainbow Reads
Maggie and Addison rent out rooms in their large home to various women. The relationships between the women and their stories are the basis of the novel. Maggie and Addison have been together for 13 years but Addison is getting restless. Her attraction to Victoria, a client, has the potential to cause huge problems. Dusty is a carefree womaniser – or is she? Tess is getting over the death of her long term partner. Eve has just left her husband and kids and wants to find out if she really is a lesbian. Their individual stories were interesting on their own but the interaction between the characters really makes this novel great. I really enjoyed finding out about them all and the family atmosphere within the house made it all the more special. Maggie was the mother hen and looked out for each woman but she had her own problems to deal with when Addison was attracted to a younger, dangerous woman. I found Dusty a really sympathetic character and liked the change in her over the course of the book. She and Tess were obviously meant for each other but neither could say so. Eve’s story of her search for love and her true self was lovely. She represented a lot of women who find they cannot live a lie any longer.
The steamy scenes were so well written and extremely hot – in fact the best I’ve read in a long time. They were very varied and inventive. I thoroughly enjoyed the book and was so sad to finish it. I wanted it to go on and on!
---- Kitty Kat
The steamy scenes were so well written and extremely hot – in fact the best I’ve read in a long time. They were very varied and inventive. I thoroughly enjoyed the book and was so sad to finish it. I wanted it to go on and on!
---- Kitty Kat
Rainbow Awards Honorable Mention
Review:
-happy sigh- What a beautiful and moving story about five women learning invaluable lessons about love, self-awareness, cause and effect, consequences, betrayal, trust, truth, relationships, friendships, family... and life. I was nervous reading this. With the different POVs, I wasn't sure if maybe one character would be lost in the shuffle, their voice silenced in the cacophony of the others, but that did not happen. Each character was able to speak, to shine, to grow, form, be fleshed out, to endure hardship and then to find resolution to that hardship. Though it would seem as if there would be much confusion with five women speaking in one novel, all dealing with their own angst, all living together in one home (I shudder to think of it), the home they lived in was remarkably peaceful and was, in fact, the focal point. The touchstone for them all. The author did a remarkable job of making me feel as if I were an invisible, empathic observer in every scene. Not only seeing everything that took place, but experiencing every visceral emotion and reaction that each character had. I must admit that I wasn't surprised by some of the things that took place, but they worked well within the scope of the book. I WAS surprised that Dusty and Tess turned out to be my favorite couple, however. I couldn't wait for either of them to appear back on the pages. Rebecca, a secondary character, was even well fleshed out and a wonderfully rounded character. I found myself nodding at many of her wise insights. Finding out that this was the author's debut novel only served to further amaze me. I will definitely be looking forward to reading more by her, lesbian romance or not, and I hope there's another book about these five women or that each couple gets their own book. I want to read more about Dusty and Tess!
-happy sigh- What a beautiful and moving story about five women learning invaluable lessons about love, self-awareness, cause and effect, consequences, betrayal, trust, truth, relationships, friendships, family... and life. I was nervous reading this. With the different POVs, I wasn't sure if maybe one character would be lost in the shuffle, their voice silenced in the cacophony of the others, but that did not happen. Each character was able to speak, to shine, to grow, form, be fleshed out, to endure hardship and then to find resolution to that hardship. Though it would seem as if there would be much confusion with five women speaking in one novel, all dealing with their own angst, all living together in one home (I shudder to think of it), the home they lived in was remarkably peaceful and was, in fact, the focal point. The touchstone for them all. The author did a remarkable job of making me feel as if I were an invisible, empathic observer in every scene. Not only seeing everything that took place, but experiencing every visceral emotion and reaction that each character had. I must admit that I wasn't surprised by some of the things that took place, but they worked well within the scope of the book. I WAS surprised that Dusty and Tess turned out to be my favorite couple, however. I couldn't wait for either of them to appear back on the pages. Rebecca, a secondary character, was even well fleshed out and a wonderfully rounded character. I found myself nodding at many of her wise insights. Finding out that this was the author's debut novel only served to further amaze me. I will definitely be looking forward to reading more by her, lesbian romance or not, and I hope there's another book about these five women or that each couple gets their own book. I want to read more about Dusty and Tess!
Four Star Review From Amazon UK
Maggie and Addison Rae-McInnis have a large house where they rent out rooms. They have the perfect love and they are the mother hens... Well Maggie is, Addison might not be so sure... Dusty rents one of the rooms and is more family than tenant but can she help Addison without losing her anchors? Tess is happy in her room with her work and occasional sex but needs nothing more as she heals from a bad break up. But surely there's more to her story? Then Eve moves in after breaking up with her husband and leaving her young sons. Eve is sure she is a lesbian although she has no experience of what that means. Dusty wants to help her but Maggie thinks Eve doesn't need Dusty's kind of help...
This starts off seeming to be a standard lesfic romance with some nicely drawn characters but becomes more complex and more interesting as Ms Levig throws some unexpected curve balls... Who is Dusty really? What is happening with Addison? Will Eve find her way without getting hurt too badly?
I really enjoyed the story and the characters and look forward to more from this author. I would particularly like more about Rebecca and her brilliant bon mots. A whole book about how she came to be so wise would be welcome if written to this standard. Recommended if you like well written, well plotted lesfic with a host of complex characters.
This starts off seeming to be a standard lesfic romance with some nicely drawn characters but becomes more complex and more interesting as Ms Levig throws some unexpected curve balls... Who is Dusty really? What is happening with Addison? Will Eve find her way without getting hurt too badly?
I really enjoyed the story and the characters and look forward to more from this author. I would particularly like more about Rebecca and her brilliant bon mots. A whole book about how she came to be so wise would be welcome if written to this standard. Recommended if you like well written, well plotted lesfic with a host of complex characters.
Five Star Review from Amazon US
This well written novel introduces several female characters, and the author does a great job of helping readers keep them straight! (no pun intended!) Maggie Rae-McInnis and her partner of twelve years, Addison, own a large, beautiful home in the Hollywood Hills. With three stories, the home is large enough to rent out rooms to other women. Tess, who's partner died in a car crash, Dusty, who enjoys playing the field, and Eve, who is trying to figure out her own identity are the current three renters. Tess and Dusty are long-term tenants, and are close friends of Addison and Maggie. Also playing an important role in this plot is Rebecca, who is a wise woman/seer and gives the different characters insight into what is going on in their lives.
With a length of over three hundred pages, there is plenty of time to enjoy these well developed characters, and to enjoy the author's warm humor.
With a length of over three hundred pages, there is plenty of time to enjoy these well developed characters, and to enjoy the author's warm humor.