Reviewed by Lynn on
Olivia (Livvy) Kane has spent the last ten years estranged from her family as she escaped the fallout from devastating events including her break-up with Nicholas Chandler. Now she's back and eager to become reacquainted with members of her family, only her return opens old emotional wounds some would rather rebury than confront.
Ten years is a long time to regret a decision which changed his life, but now Livvy Kane is back, Nicholas Chandler wants to rekindle what they once had. It's a selfish desire but he's willing to sacrifice everything he has built in his life for her, only he needs to understand that the woman he's continued to crave all these years is hiding a secret that could change everything.
In the beginning, I felt a little overwhelmed as Livvy and Nicholas' back story unfolds and key secondary characters are introduced. However, once complete and the focus is solely on the protagonists, I was quickly drawn into the narrative.
With elements of a Shakespearean tragedy with a happier ending twist, we are introduced to two families who built up a successful business together until revenge tore them apart. One still enjoys an affluent lifestyle, making do with limited resources now available to them. With, blackmail, suspicious incidents and greed, two young people are forced to sacrifice their love; to respect family wishes. Yet, in the ten years since their devastating breakup, neither has managed to let go as yearly illicit trysts took place to satisfy their carnal desires in the hope time will cure them of their feelings. Only time hasn't healed them at all.
The troubles within their families run deep and wide as so many members have issues and opinions about Livvy and Nicholas having a relationship. The author weaves emotional good with the bad as the pair walk a tight line between doing what is right for them now and ignoring the potential conflict looming on the horizon. Yet, both are still not on the same page, as Nicholas pushes them further to find a solution, whilst Livvy looks for an escape because sacrificing her heart's desire seems easier than admitting something she believes will end things anyway. It's heartbreaking but determination and compassion prove love can conquer all.
Overall, a well written and enjoyable romance riddled with angst and hope. I'm not sure if Hate To Want You is standalone because we leave Livvy and Nicholas almost on the brink of a happy for now relationship. I'm committed to reading the second novel in this series and as we follow Jackson and Sadia, but I really hope we get a glimpse of how Livvy and Nicholas are faring too. Do I wish there was an epilogue? No. I'm more than satisfied with the ending as it leaves me with an invested interest to continue the Forbidden Hearts series.
4.5 stars
***arc received courtesy of Avon Romance via Instafreebie***
Reading updates
- Started reading
- 16 July, 2017: Finished reading
- 16 July, 2017: Reviewed