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The Austens #4
Living Out Loud
The second Annie Daschle tumbles into my arms, my whole world changes.
When she asks if we’re hiring at Wasted Words, I can only say yes, even though we aren’t—it’s that early on that I realize I can’t say no to her. Not when she asks me to show her around New York, even though I already know I should stay away. Not when she asks if we’re friends because I want her so much more than that.
But she isn’t mine, and she never can be.
She’s fresh out of high school, never been kissed. She’s my employee, just a kid with a heart condition that’s stopped her from living out loud like she’s always wanted. She’s never dated, never had a boyfriend, never lived, and I can’t be the one to break her heart the first time. I can’t be the one to show her what could be.
But God, how I want to.
Within a few staggering heartbeats, Annie and I are caught in the middle of something we can’t find our way out of, with no clear answers and no rules. And the moment she’s in my arms again, I realize she can’t control her heart. Not the decisions it makes.
Not the moment it stops.
When she asks if we’re hiring at Wasted Words, I can only say yes, even though we aren’t—it’s that early on that I realize I can’t say no to her. Not when she asks me to show her around New York, even though I already know I should stay away. Not when she asks if we’re friends because I want her so much more than that.
But she isn’t mine, and she never can be.
She’s fresh out of high school, never been kissed. She’s my employee, just a kid with a heart condition that’s stopped her from living out loud like she’s always wanted. She’s never dated, never had a boyfriend, never lived, and I can’t be the one to break her heart the first time. I can’t be the one to show her what could be.
But God, how I want to.
Within a few staggering heartbeats, Annie and I are caught in the middle of something we can’t find our way out of, with no clear answers and no rules. And the moment she’s in my arms again, I realize she can’t control her heart. Not the decisions it makes.
Not the moment it stops.
324 pages, Paperback
First published January 30, 2018
About the author
Staci Hart
48 books6,170 followersI was the kid who stayed inside to read.
As a four-eyed nerd with a bad perm, I was no one’s dodgeball pick, but I had a lot of friends. Frodo and Bilbo, for instance. Kristy, Stacey, Claudia and the gang (iykyk). Once, in the third grade, I wrote a teen murder mystery inspired by Christopher Pike. On solving my mystery in twelve pages, I decided I was a terrible writer and should never, ever do that again.
Fortunately, I didn’t take my own advice.
I write romance for that feeling you get at the end, like you’re standing on top of a mountain with a backpack full of hundred dollar bills. I write romcoms because is there anything better than banter and grand gestures? I write because I love to create and I love words. I love books, and I love stretching my imagination. I love love, and if you do too, bring your coffee and have a seat. I think we’re gonna be friends.
Stay connected!
Instagram: http://instagram.com/quirkybird
Facebook: http://facebook.com/stacihartnovels
Reader Group: http://facebook.com/groups/stacihart
As a four-eyed nerd with a bad perm, I was no one’s dodgeball pick, but I had a lot of friends. Frodo and Bilbo, for instance. Kristy, Stacey, Claudia and the gang (iykyk). Once, in the third grade, I wrote a teen murder mystery inspired by Christopher Pike. On solving my mystery in twelve pages, I decided I was a terrible writer and should never, ever do that again.
Fortunately, I didn’t take my own advice.
I write romance for that feeling you get at the end, like you’re standing on top of a mountain with a backpack full of hundred dollar bills. I write romcoms because is there anything better than banter and grand gestures? I write because I love to create and I love words. I love books, and I love stretching my imagination. I love love, and if you do too, bring your coffee and have a seat. I think we’re gonna be friends.
Stay connected!
Instagram: http://instagram.com/quirkybird
Facebook: http://facebook.com/stacihartnovels
Reader Group: http://facebook.com/groups/stacihart
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 450 reviews
February 2, 2018
5 Stars!!!
Living Out Loud is a fun, heartwarming, sweet, and emotional read, and one of Hart’s best books in my opinion. From the very first chapter, I fell in love with this story and these characters.
Annie Daschle is ready to live. She has had a lot of loss in her life, but rather than dwell on the things she can’t control, she makes a list. A list of things she’s never done, things she wants to do, things that will have her living out loud. One of the first things she is able to check off her list is to get a job at Wasted Words. Yes, that Wasted Words. What she doesn’t expect is to meet a guy like Greg Brandon.
Greg is the head bartender at Wasted Words and he and Annie become fast friends. Greg is there for her, and wants to help her check things off her list. Their friendship grows and it quickly turns into Greg wanting more. This is unusual for him, but then again, he’s never met anyone like Annie before. Even though Greg has it bad for Annie, it appears Annie just wants to be friends,
I adored Annie and Greg. Both of them. I couldn’t even pick which one I loved more. They were both so wonderful! Annie has such strength. I love that she was going all out and taking risks. And Greg deserved love so much. He’s been patient, waiting for the right one, and I’m so glad he found that in Annie.
Of course, one of the best things about this book was all the tie-ins to Staci’s other books. God, it was good to catch up with the Wasted Words crew. And the little cameo we got from another character was a lot of fun as well. I loved a lot of Annie’s family also. It looks like the next book will be about her sister, and I’m very excited for that one as well!
I completely adore the stories Hart tells as contemporary retellings of Austen novels. When I saw this one was inspired by Sense and Sensibility, I knew it would be amazing. I love that Staci Hart books make me feel good. Even when they’re emotional, I just feel so happy reading them. It’s usually exactly what I need. Living Out Loud will make you feel good, but it will also make you want to live big, take risks, and appreciate what you have. This story had an impact on me. This story was beautifully written, heartwarming, and highly entertaining. I can’t rave about it enough! It’s one I’ll definitely be recommending to all my romance loving friends x
Living Out Loud is a fun, heartwarming, sweet, and emotional read, and one of Hart’s best books in my opinion. From the very first chapter, I fell in love with this story and these characters.
Annie Daschle is ready to live. She has had a lot of loss in her life, but rather than dwell on the things she can’t control, she makes a list. A list of things she’s never done, things she wants to do, things that will have her living out loud. One of the first things she is able to check off her list is to get a job at Wasted Words. Yes, that Wasted Words. What she doesn’t expect is to meet a guy like Greg Brandon.
Greg is the head bartender at Wasted Words and he and Annie become fast friends. Greg is there for her, and wants to help her check things off her list. Their friendship grows and it quickly turns into Greg wanting more. This is unusual for him, but then again, he’s never met anyone like Annie before. Even though Greg has it bad for Annie, it appears Annie just wants to be friends,
I’d tried to convince myself I could be her friend and nothing more. I’d considered the earnestness of her feelings, the depths I knew to be true; she cared for me and wanted me, just not in the way I wanted her.
I adored Annie and Greg. Both of them. I couldn’t even pick which one I loved more. They were both so wonderful! Annie has such strength. I love that she was going all out and taking risks. And Greg deserved love so much. He’s been patient, waiting for the right one, and I’m so glad he found that in Annie.
Of course, one of the best things about this book was all the tie-ins to Staci’s other books. God, it was good to catch up with the Wasted Words crew. And the little cameo we got from another character was a lot of fun as well. I loved a lot of Annie’s family also. It looks like the next book will be about her sister, and I’m very excited for that one as well!
I completely adore the stories Hart tells as contemporary retellings of Austen novels. When I saw this one was inspired by Sense and Sensibility, I knew it would be amazing. I love that Staci Hart books make me feel good. Even when they’re emotional, I just feel so happy reading them. It’s usually exactly what I need. Living Out Loud will make you feel good, but it will also make you want to live big, take risks, and appreciate what you have. This story had an impact on me. This story was beautifully written, heartwarming, and highly entertaining. I can’t rave about it enough! It’s one I’ll definitely be recommending to all my romance loving friends x
“Love gives itself without condition or expectation simply because it must. Love is devotion, and I find myself devoted to you, body and soul. I love you. As little as I know, that is the thing I am most certain of.”
January 31, 2018
Live amazon https://www.amazon.com/dp/B079GRMLSL/...
❤️5 BEAUTIFUL STARS ❤️
Such a beautiful,sweet,romantic and heartwarming story. I thought A Little Too Late was amazing but wait until you read Living Out Loud!I didn't want to finish it, it was unique and I had so many feelings while I was reading it!
"That was Greg and me-easy and uninhibited, a joining of two streams to make a river."
I loved Greg and Annie.Annie is such a sweetheart my heart ached for her!Greg is kind,charming,friendly,sweet and lovable.I adored them, I couldn't get enough of these two.The characters felt so realistic making the story more intimidate!
Staci Hart is my new favorite author!!Her stories are unique and beautiful!I highly recommend this one!It was absolutely fantastic, sweet and so romantic!
❤️5 BEAUTIFUL STARS ❤️
Such a beautiful,sweet,romantic and heartwarming story. I thought A Little Too Late was amazing but wait until you read Living Out Loud!I didn't want to finish it, it was unique and I had so many feelings while I was reading it!
"That was Greg and me-easy and uninhibited, a joining of two streams to make a river."
I loved Greg and Annie.Annie is such a sweetheart my heart ached for her!Greg is kind,charming,friendly,sweet and lovable.I adored them, I couldn't get enough of these two.The characters felt so realistic making the story more intimidate!
Staci Hart is my new favorite author!!Her stories are unique and beautiful!I highly recommend this one!It was absolutely fantastic, sweet and so romantic!
February 4, 2018
“The world was infinite, and I was not.
You see, my heart was full of holes.”
Wow! To say this was a highly anticipated release by one of my favorite authors is a massive understatement. I love Staci Hart’s work and I know you should never judge a book by its cover, but seriously, how pretty is the cover to Living Out Loud? I have so much love for this beautiful and sweet romance. It pulled at my heart strings big time and made me crave more, a lot more. I love delving into stories that give me all the feels and Staci always manages to do that with her beautifully articulated writing and poetic prose. Living Out Loud was simply the icing on the Staci Hart cake.
Annie has been dealt a rough hand. She has been through more pain in her short life than some experience in their whole life-time, but she is a fighter and a survivor. Even though she has suffered immense loss, she doesn’t let that stop her from living and she doesn’t focus on those aspects of her life that she can’t change. Rather, she focuses on the things she can control. So with her list of things to accomplish, she moves to New York to live her life out loud.
When Annie moves to New York one of the things she strives to mark off her list is to gain employment at Wasted Words, the super cool book bar. There she meets bartender Greg Brandon, and sweet, naïve Annie was not prepared to meet someone quite like Greg.
“For a moment, my pain was behind me in the coolness of my shadow and the whole world was spread out in front of me like a feast of possibility.
And I would take a taste of everything I could.”
Greg is so sweet and has a heart of pure gold. He will do absolutely anything to make Annie happy, including helping her check things off her list. The two form a strong friendship, but it is apparent Greg definitely wants more and he is willing to wait as long as it takes.
I loved Greg and Annie, both as individual characters and together. On one hand Annie is sweet and naïve, but on the other hand she’s courageous, full of strength and inspirational. Greg is a true swoon worthy hero, who will melt your heart and make you fall in love. The angst between the two was just the perfect amount, and I wanted nothing more than to see these two happy and in love.
“Love gives itself without condition or expectation simply because it must. Love is devotion, and I find myself devoted to you, body and soul.”
Living Out Loud is book 3 in the Austin series, inspired by Jane Austin’s Sense and Sensibility. In my opinion Staci Hart took a classic Austin story and wrote something sweet, emotional and remarkable. She definitely did Austin justice. I found myself quite inspired whilst reading Living Out Loud, inspired to take more risks, inspired to live my life out loud and inspired to do the things that my heart desires. It’s easy to be complacent and rest on your laurels, but it takes true courage to step outside the box and give things a go.
I could not recommend Living Out Loud enough. If you love your sweet, entertaining, heartwarming and angsty love stories then definitely check this one out, you won’t be sorry.
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January 23, 2020
NEW COVER + ALL VENDORS!
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January 2, 2018
Wow. Absolutely stunning. This is why Hart is such a household name in indie romance. Unique, beautifully written and incredibly romantic, Living Out Loud will have Jane Austen fans losing their ever loving minds. Full review to come!
April 23, 2018
Get it here:
Amazon US * Amazon UK
Living Out Loud was a really fun book to read. I loved the innocence that Annie brought to the story, not in a naive type way but more of an adventurous way. She wanted to discover everything about life that she's missed and I loved getting to see explore with her.
I was honestly loving this book so hard for the majority of the beginning but then the middle part happened and took this read down to a three star read for me. I just couldn't get on board with the random love triangle thing thrown in and it annoyed me when Annie finally ends up with her guy at the end but by then I couldn't feel their connection as much because of the stupid triangle thing and then it was over. It just made me wish I had seen more of them together.
Even with the parts that I didn't exactly enjoy I still really liked this story and I somehow kept up the light feeling to it all throughout the entire book. I still liked the overall story and the characters really impressed me, especially Annie.
Amazon US * Amazon UK
Living Out Loud was a really fun book to read. I loved the innocence that Annie brought to the story, not in a naive type way but more of an adventurous way. She wanted to discover everything about life that she's missed and I loved getting to see explore with her.
I was honestly loving this book so hard for the majority of the beginning but then the middle part happened and took this read down to a three star read for me. I just couldn't get on board with the random love triangle thing thrown in and it annoyed me when Annie finally ends up with her guy at the end but by then I couldn't feel their connection as much because of the stupid triangle thing and then it was over. It just made me wish I had seen more of them together.
Even with the parts that I didn't exactly enjoy I still really liked this story and I somehow kept up the light feeling to it all throughout the entire book. I still liked the overall story and the characters really impressed me, especially Annie.
February 2, 2018
Title: Living Out Loud (Austen #3)
Author: Staci Hart
Genre: Contemporary Romance
Publication Date: February 1st, 2018
Living out Loud is a retelling inspired by Jane Austen's Sense and Sensibility...
Living Out Loud is a fun, heartwarming and sweet read... It's romantic and almost innocent like.
I quite enjoyed the book to be honest but I didn't love it. I couldn't really connect with either of the characters: Case in point, Annie. I think there's a difference between being innocent and annoyingly naive and sadly, I found myself annoyed with Annie's Naivety. Now I know some might say that I should consider her 'condition' but come on! Annie is apparently 'almost' a booknerd like us hahaha...she too, loves a good romance book.. I'd like to believe people who read as much as we do, aren't that naive. But besides that, I liked Annie's perspective and enthusiasm for the everyday things that we take for granted.
Greg Brandon is a patient one. He's sweet and thoughtful. I really liked Annie and Greg together.
Living Out Loud is a sweet book with some very interesting side characters. I especially loved Meg (Annie's sister), her outspoken, curious bluntness is hilarious!
For more ...
www.jemimajamir.com
February 1, 2018
Staci Hart has done it again and blown me away with her magical writing that's not only sweet, beautiful and but Amazing as well!!! I got lost in Staci's beautiful words right from the beginning.
When I read Greg's reaction when he first laid eyes on Annie, I knew that this was going to be one of those love stories that would have me swooning rooting for their HEA.
Annie was learning to live life to the fullest for the first time in her life and she had a list of things to check off. Never did she expect to find someone like Greg to fall on her list and I knew that she would never be the same after that.
“Did he tell you how beautiful you are, Annie?” he asked. When he pulled away only by the smallest degree, my eyes opened again, full of desperate desire I saw reflected in his. “Because you are,” he said. “You are so beautiful, I can’t bear to look. You’ve left me blind and exposed, disarmed and defenseless.”
Greg's protectiveness for Annie despite not being the one she was with had me wanting to whoop so major butt!!! At times I wanted to smack some sense into both of them because I could see their feelings for each other yet they kept fighting it. As I kept reading I knew something would have to happen to wake them up and when it did I was high fiving myself!!
Be prepared to laugh 😜, smile like a fool 😁, whoop some butt 💪 and swoon 😊 because Annie & Greg's story is one of most swoon worthy love stories I've read so far ❤❤ Kara~5 Breathtaking Stars
When I read Greg's reaction when he first laid eyes on Annie, I knew that this was going to be one of those love stories that would have me swooning rooting for their HEA.
Annie was learning to live life to the fullest for the first time in her life and she had a list of things to check off. Never did she expect to find someone like Greg to fall on her list and I knew that she would never be the same after that.
“Did he tell you how beautiful you are, Annie?” he asked. When he pulled away only by the smallest degree, my eyes opened again, full of desperate desire I saw reflected in his. “Because you are,” he said. “You are so beautiful, I can’t bear to look. You’ve left me blind and exposed, disarmed and defenseless.”
Greg's protectiveness for Annie despite not being the one she was with had me wanting to whoop so major butt!!! At times I wanted to smack some sense into both of them because I could see their feelings for each other yet they kept fighting it. As I kept reading I knew something would have to happen to wake them up and when it did I was high fiving myself!!
Be prepared to laugh 😜, smile like a fool 😁, whoop some butt 💪 and swoon 😊 because Annie & Greg's story is one of most swoon worthy love stories I've read so far ❤❤ Kara~5 Breathtaking Stars
February 10, 2018
This was a sweet love story. I liked Annie and Greg. There was a little bit of OM drama with a guy Annie went on a few dates with. I wish we got a little more info on Greg's past with OW. We know that he hasn't had any success dating for the last few years, but nothing is mentioned about him being celibate. Since we knew Annie was a never been kissed virgin I would have liked some specifics about Greg.
February 2, 2018
Touching and deep. 3.5 Stars
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
The first word that comes to my mind about this book is sweet. It’s a sweet story about a young girl who moves from a Podunk town to New York City.
With health issues and awe of the city sights, she has passion in her heart. A passion to live life out loud.
As an innocent young woman with no clue about men, she ends up meeting two guys. Such as the way of the world she has to learn things the hard way.
Who is good? Who will care for her? Who loves her?
Written with all good intentions, the story is just so sweet. It’s enjoyable but rather predictable. There is a fair amount of emotion and the desire to know what is going to happen, but I was never overly attached.
Perhaps I’m a little jaded and I don’t see the world through rose colored glasses much anymore. I loved Annie’s wide eyed look at the world but yet it got a little monotonous after a bit. The innocence and sheltered way of living was a bit much for me.
One bright part of the story was Greg. He is so sweet and caring, just what she needs, except there is also Will. The real question is who will win her heart.
Overall, it’s a lovely story. Just not one that captured my heart.
* copy received for review consideration
full review - http://amidlifewife.com/living-out-lo...
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
The first word that comes to my mind about this book is sweet. It’s a sweet story about a young girl who moves from a Podunk town to New York City.
With health issues and awe of the city sights, she has passion in her heart. A passion to live life out loud.
As an innocent young woman with no clue about men, she ends up meeting two guys. Such as the way of the world she has to learn things the hard way.
Who is good? Who will care for her? Who loves her?
Written with all good intentions, the story is just so sweet. It’s enjoyable but rather predictable. There is a fair amount of emotion and the desire to know what is going to happen, but I was never overly attached.
Perhaps I’m a little jaded and I don’t see the world through rose colored glasses much anymore. I loved Annie’s wide eyed look at the world but yet it got a little monotonous after a bit. The innocence and sheltered way of living was a bit much for me.
One bright part of the story was Greg. He is so sweet and caring, just what she needs, except there is also Will. The real question is who will win her heart.
Overall, it’s a lovely story. Just not one that captured my heart.
* copy received for review consideration
full review - http://amidlifewife.com/living-out-lo...
February 5, 2018
Absolute FAVORITE Staci Hart Hero! Favorite book from the series! TOP FAVORITE for the year! Ms. Hart just AMAZES the hell out of me! Her writing is one of a kind! The most poetic...the most romantic...the most heart wrenching...the most EVERYTHING! Every single time I read one of Staci's books, it’s like I’m experiencing her unbelievable talent for the very first time! LIVING OUT LOUD was so touching, so charming, so beautiful, I never wanted it to end! But at the same time, I needed to get to Annie and Greg’s happily every after, like I needed my next breath!
“I found myself lost in the wonder of her.”
These two…just wow! My heart was just BURSTING for Annie and Greg all throughout their story. There were so many moments where my heart just dropped, I didn’t know how much more I could take. It was brimming with emotional and beautiful chemistry between the two main characters. I laughed. I cried. I swooned. I cried some more. Staci Hart just has a knack for creating characters that are next to impossible not to fall in love with.
“I knew I’d do anything for her. Even if it meant the end of me.”
LIVING OUT LOUD is so much more than a love story. It’s about the importance of family and friendship. It’s about the struggles of young and all-consuming love. It’s about sacrifice and following your heart. And in writing this review, I just realized how truly special Annie and Greg’s story truly was. I want to devour it, experience it, live it ALL OVER AGAIN!
“I will never know greater fortune than having you for my own.”
A young woman, so new to this fast-paced world…a beautiful man who sees something that he can’t ignore in the young woman that seems so naive, and yet, she has an old soul that matches perfectly with his own. I couldn’t get enough of these two and I just know that you won’t either. Not only is this book a MUST READ, it’s NECESSARY. It’s poignant. It’s unapologetic. It’s magical. It’s exciting. Trust me, I could go on and on, but just know that the minute I started Annie and Greg’s unforgettable story, I knew there was no going back and I KNEW that LIVING OUT LOUD was going to be a TOP FAVORITE of the year for me!
March 15, 2018
FOUR AUSTEN THEMED STARS.
”You’ve been in my heart ever since I met you.”
Oh Staci Hart, where do I begin. This authors words are as smooth as melted dark chocolate and just as easy to devour. I want to live in her books, take a jump right in and rub shoulders with her delightful characters. What this author doesn’t do to bring her stories to life is not worth talking about, instead I want to ramble on and on and on to anyone who will listen to how much I adore this authors work.
What’s it all about?
This latest release by best selling author Staci Hart has brought to life a modern day retelling of Jane Austen’s sense and sensibility. Anyone who loves a darling romance story will feel right at home with this novel. Follow the journey of one inexperienced but full of life heroine with everything to loose and her counterpart; an unexpected hero who is ready to sweep the stoniest of hearts right of their reading perch. Staci Hart has created a world which is hard to leave and even harder to forget about.
What did I love?
If you were to look up the word delightful in the Lisa version of the English dictionary you are likely to find this book (along with some other Lisa loving items) right beside the description. Yes, this book gave the true meaning to a sweet and darling romance novel, but with plenty of fast flowing story to really give the novel some punch. I’m in love with how Staci Hart makes me feel when I read her words, which is exactly why I keep on coming back for more.
Why not five?
As you can tell from my thoughts so far, this book was hitting some major high points for my reading tastes and for the most part this book threw everything it could at my five star radar. I loved the characters, the other worldly dialogue, the setting, the feelings that this book gave me. Truthfully I could go on and on - but, (and as usual it’s a ‘small but’) there was something missing for me to make me take that leap to a five star rating, I craved a little more fleshing out of the characters connection just a bit more time for the protagonists to convince me of their desire to choose each other. Quite honestly I was in a quandary with my feelings over rating this book, but as always for reviewing sake I just have to be as true as I can make it. This is minor details, and as you can tell from other reviews emerging this book is already a winner.
Final thoughts ...
Staci Hart is one of my all time favourite authors, her books have a way of making me feel right at home but at the same time taking me off into another world. But please don’t take my word for it, if you’ve not yet had the chance to give this author a try I can guarantee you won’t be disappointed. As far as this particular book goes, I’m left with a humongous smile on my face that I’m sure will be matching other readers when they get the chance to fall in love with Hart’s latest book. Enjoy ... kisses.
”You’ve been in my heart ever since I met you.”
Oh Staci Hart, where do I begin. This authors words are as smooth as melted dark chocolate and just as easy to devour. I want to live in her books, take a jump right in and rub shoulders with her delightful characters. What this author doesn’t do to bring her stories to life is not worth talking about, instead I want to ramble on and on and on to anyone who will listen to how much I adore this authors work.
What’s it all about?
This latest release by best selling author Staci Hart has brought to life a modern day retelling of Jane Austen’s sense and sensibility. Anyone who loves a darling romance story will feel right at home with this novel. Follow the journey of one inexperienced but full of life heroine with everything to loose and her counterpart; an unexpected hero who is ready to sweep the stoniest of hearts right of their reading perch. Staci Hart has created a world which is hard to leave and even harder to forget about.
What did I love?
If you were to look up the word delightful in the Lisa version of the English dictionary you are likely to find this book (along with some other Lisa loving items) right beside the description. Yes, this book gave the true meaning to a sweet and darling romance novel, but with plenty of fast flowing story to really give the novel some punch. I’m in love with how Staci Hart makes me feel when I read her words, which is exactly why I keep on coming back for more.
Why not five?
As you can tell from my thoughts so far, this book was hitting some major high points for my reading tastes and for the most part this book threw everything it could at my five star radar. I loved the characters, the other worldly dialogue, the setting, the feelings that this book gave me. Truthfully I could go on and on - but, (and as usual it’s a ‘small but’) there was something missing for me to make me take that leap to a five star rating, I craved a little more fleshing out of the characters connection just a bit more time for the protagonists to convince me of their desire to choose each other. Quite honestly I was in a quandary with my feelings over rating this book, but as always for reviewing sake I just have to be as true as I can make it. This is minor details, and as you can tell from other reviews emerging this book is already a winner.
Final thoughts ...
Staci Hart is one of my all time favourite authors, her books have a way of making me feel right at home but at the same time taking me off into another world. But please don’t take my word for it, if you’ve not yet had the chance to give this author a try I can guarantee you won’t be disappointed. As far as this particular book goes, I’m left with a humongous smile on my face that I’m sure will be matching other readers when they get the chance to fall in love with Hart’s latest book. Enjoy ... kisses.
March 26, 2018
2018 Romance Challenge
Category: Whatever romance you want!
For my do-what-you-want romance, I chose a classic retelling.
3 Stars
Living Out Loud is a modern-day retelling of the iconic Austen romance Sense and Sensibility. Which follows two sisters who differ in every way imaginable, except in how fiercely they love one and other. This tale is predominantly about the younger of the two, Annie.
Annie was born with a rare defect of the heart; and because of that she has had many restrictions in her life. She dreams of adventure and intensity, which is not all too surprising seeing as how she is prohibited for health reasons to even go for a lengthy stroll through the park. At the beginning of this novel, their family has been uprooted due to tragedy and they find themselves in the home of their aunt and uncle in New York City.
She has a plan, a list really, of all the things she wants to do. All the ways she plans to live out loud. Some of them are cute like having a hotdog on the steps of The Met and some of them, for her, a bit embarrassing like having her first boyfriend. You see because Annie has been so ill the majority of her life; she has never had a chance to do many of the things that teenagers take for granted.
When Annie meets Greg, they immediately hit it off, he’s sweet, attentive and charming. However, he is MUCH older than her eighteen (by today’s standards). Greg is a bartender in the cool little bookshop & bar that Annie finds herself applying to work. The two quickly become great friends and he discovers and helps her tick off items on that above-mentioned list, despite the fact that Greg is instantly attracted to Annie he never pursues her because he’s ten years her senior and he doesn’t think it’s appropriate.
“Not all love is loud and assuming. Sometimes it is silent, especially when it puts someone else’s happiness above its own”
I had a few qualms about the character choices that Hart made in this retelling; however, mostly that is because Colonel Brandon is one of my favourite Austen heroes of all time and I find making him a skateboarder with tattoos a bit *waffles hand* unusual. Ultimately the integrity of him as a hero overshadows these choices and leaves my love of a character who so readily choses the object of his affections interests above his own, intact.
If you are looking for a heart-warming and quick read, this fits the bill.
Category: Whatever romance you want!
For my do-what-you-want romance, I chose a classic retelling.
3 Stars
Living Out Loud is a modern-day retelling of the iconic Austen romance Sense and Sensibility. Which follows two sisters who differ in every way imaginable, except in how fiercely they love one and other. This tale is predominantly about the younger of the two, Annie.
Annie was born with a rare defect of the heart; and because of that she has had many restrictions in her life. She dreams of adventure and intensity, which is not all too surprising seeing as how she is prohibited for health reasons to even go for a lengthy stroll through the park. At the beginning of this novel, their family has been uprooted due to tragedy and they find themselves in the home of their aunt and uncle in New York City.
She has a plan, a list really, of all the things she wants to do. All the ways she plans to live out loud. Some of them are cute like having a hotdog on the steps of The Met and some of them, for her, a bit embarrassing like having her first boyfriend. You see because Annie has been so ill the majority of her life; she has never had a chance to do many of the things that teenagers take for granted.
When Annie meets Greg, they immediately hit it off, he’s sweet, attentive and charming. However, he is MUCH older than her eighteen (by today’s standards). Greg is a bartender in the cool little bookshop & bar that Annie finds herself applying to work. The two quickly become great friends and he discovers and helps her tick off items on that above-mentioned list, despite the fact that Greg is instantly attracted to Annie he never pursues her because he’s ten years her senior and he doesn’t think it’s appropriate.
“Not all love is loud and assuming. Sometimes it is silent, especially when it puts someone else’s happiness above its own”
I had a few qualms about the character choices that Hart made in this retelling; however, mostly that is because Colonel Brandon is one of my favourite Austen heroes of all time and I find making him a skateboarder with tattoos a bit *waffles hand* unusual. Ultimately the integrity of him as a hero overshadows these choices and leaves my love of a character who so readily choses the object of his affections interests above his own, intact.
If you are looking for a heart-warming and quick read, this fits the bill.
January 29, 2018
4.5 Stars
Jane Austen meets contemporary romance in the third novel in the Austen series by Staci Hart. Living Out Loud features middle Daschle sister, Annie, and the perplexing situation she finds herself in when two gentlemen set their sights on her. Set amongst the backdrop of the famous Wasted Words bookstore and bar, Annie begins her adult life in a new city, around new people, and with a list of firsts to complete along the way.
"But, out of nowhere, she would invade my mind like cigarette smoke."
As a girl raised on the beautiful, romantic words of Jane Austen I've always avoided novels that tell the story in a different way. I like the original, I don't think anything compares, but then I read A Thousand Letters and Wasted Words and I found myself drawn in, addicted to the completely original story and characters that Hart has created with just the right amount of retelling thrown in. It's like baking, where too much salt throws everything off, but she's figured out how to blend the two worlds together perfectly. I found myself unable to even compare Living Out Loud to the story I know all too well, too mesmerized by the sweet, unhurried romance unfolding in the pages to worry about it all. It's the sort of novel you escape into, perfect for a rainy day in or laying out in the green grass with the sun shining down.
"He'd kept my breath, taking it with him. I wondered if I'd ever get it back."
Living Out Louds takes place in one of my favorite cities, New York. The world is different there, it's bright and shiny, especially to newbie Annie Daschle. She has definitely had a rough go of it, but she's by far the sweetest character I have ever read from any author. She has a great personality and a positive outlook we all should envy, so it's no surprise this novel is about giving her a little dose of reality, but also showing her that dreams, fantasies, and fairytales do exist too. She's got the perfect Austen-esque sisters on either side of her, a heart that she won't give up on, andthe desire to follow through on the most innocent of bucket lists. She's got the world at her fingertips and this book is as dreamy as her goals are. There's also handsome admirer, Greg, willing to do anything to show his level of care for Annie. Unaware of how he's doted on her, Annie's heart leads her to Will, a man in shiny armor, though less so of a knight than she'd like.
"But mostly I just listened to her, watch her. Heard her. Saw her."
Both men have their positive qualities, though I admit I was automatically #teamgreg and spent several pages expressing my frustration at Annie. She's a wonderful character, full of rainbows and sunshine and naivety, though that final quality is something I ultimately found to be a fault that bothered me. It makes for a very interesting book, for one to be so caught up in the fairytale to forget common sense, but in this case I questioned how a book lover couldn't see any of this coming. The setting though, was perfect. I loved revisiting Wasted Words and the book store family readers have come to love. Annie's list was so fantastic and really lent itself to the overall sweet vibe of the story. It also allows for so much character development, showcasing Annie's optimistic outlook as she overcomes tragedy and personal hurdles.
"And I found myself feeling foolish and blind and without direction."
Living Out Loud is just another example of why Staci Hart is one of my go-to authors. The characters, the plotlines, the dialogue and writing, it's all so stunning and done so well. There's even one particular moment that I could see happening right before my eyes, like a movie screen had pop up to show me just how Staci Hart's words would have played out. I'll probably forever connect yellow peacoats to Annie. I definitely saw just the right amount of Sense & Sensibility in this one and I think Staci Hart did a perfect job of bringing a contemporary new swing to it.
ARC provided in exchange for an honest review.
Jane Austen meets contemporary romance in the third novel in the Austen series by Staci Hart. Living Out Loud features middle Daschle sister, Annie, and the perplexing situation she finds herself in when two gentlemen set their sights on her. Set amongst the backdrop of the famous Wasted Words bookstore and bar, Annie begins her adult life in a new city, around new people, and with a list of firsts to complete along the way.
"But, out of nowhere, she would invade my mind like cigarette smoke."
As a girl raised on the beautiful, romantic words of Jane Austen I've always avoided novels that tell the story in a different way. I like the original, I don't think anything compares, but then I read A Thousand Letters and Wasted Words and I found myself drawn in, addicted to the completely original story and characters that Hart has created with just the right amount of retelling thrown in. It's like baking, where too much salt throws everything off, but she's figured out how to blend the two worlds together perfectly. I found myself unable to even compare Living Out Loud to the story I know all too well, too mesmerized by the sweet, unhurried romance unfolding in the pages to worry about it all. It's the sort of novel you escape into, perfect for a rainy day in or laying out in the green grass with the sun shining down.
"He'd kept my breath, taking it with him. I wondered if I'd ever get it back."
Living Out Louds takes place in one of my favorite cities, New York. The world is different there, it's bright and shiny, especially to newbie Annie Daschle. She has definitely had a rough go of it, but she's by far the sweetest character I have ever read from any author. She has a great personality and a positive outlook we all should envy, so it's no surprise this novel is about giving her a little dose of reality, but also showing her that dreams, fantasies, and fairytales do exist too. She's got the perfect Austen-esque sisters on either side of her, a heart that she won't give up on, andthe desire to follow through on the most innocent of bucket lists. She's got the world at her fingertips and this book is as dreamy as her goals are. There's also handsome admirer, Greg, willing to do anything to show his level of care for Annie. Unaware of how he's doted on her, Annie's heart leads her to Will, a man in shiny armor, though less so of a knight than she'd like.
"But mostly I just listened to her, watch her. Heard her. Saw her."
Both men have their positive qualities, though I admit I was automatically #teamgreg and spent several pages expressing my frustration at Annie. She's a wonderful character, full of rainbows and sunshine and naivety, though that final quality is something I ultimately found to be a fault that bothered me. It makes for a very interesting book, for one to be so caught up in the fairytale to forget common sense, but in this case I questioned how a book lover couldn't see any of this coming. The setting though, was perfect. I loved revisiting Wasted Words and the book store family readers have come to love. Annie's list was so fantastic and really lent itself to the overall sweet vibe of the story. It also allows for so much character development, showcasing Annie's optimistic outlook as she overcomes tragedy and personal hurdles.
"And I found myself feeling foolish and blind and without direction."
Living Out Loud is just another example of why Staci Hart is one of my go-to authors. The characters, the plotlines, the dialogue and writing, it's all so stunning and done so well. There's even one particular moment that I could see happening right before my eyes, like a movie screen had pop up to show me just how Staci Hart's words would have played out. I'll probably forever connect yellow peacoats to Annie. I definitely saw just the right amount of Sense & Sensibility in this one and I think Staci Hart did a perfect job of bringing a contemporary new swing to it.
ARC provided in exchange for an honest review.
March 30, 2020
4 Stars
Read this and other reviews here: Brina and the Books
Living Out Loud is Hart's 3rd book in the Austen series and is a retelling of Jane Austen's Sense & Sensibility. I've read all Hart's Austen books and the more I read, the more I want to pick up the original and see what that is all about. Maybe I find some time to do that one of these days.
Hart's gut-wrenching romances always have something poetic. The words she uses to convey the story, the characters' feelings, and the situation they find themselves are magical. Her writing is amazing.
When you typically met someone, you found commonality, connections, topics for conversation, but it was some level of work, even if it was enjoyable work. It took effort. But sometimes, we met people we fell into stride with so naturally that the connection required no thought or cultivation; it threw all of your other relationships into shadow by the sheer of brilliance of the light.
For those who have read Jane Austen's Sense & Sensibility, know what the initial story of Living Out Loud is all about. I haven't, so everything was new to me.
Annie and Greg's story was beautiful and romantic; it was also very predictable - but in a good way. The predictability didn't take away anything from the experience of the story. Annie and Greg had to face some tough situations and had to make some even bigger decisions for them as a couple and as individuals. Even though I knew how the story was going to end, I wanted to know how they finally got there. I wanted to experience every smile, every tear, every laugh, and every kiss.
Staci Hart has written close to 15 books in the last few years and has created her own little Staci Hart Universe in New York City. With the exception of a few books, all her stories are complete standalones and can be read individualy. Yet, Staci Hart always finds a way to connect each and every book with each other and I love her for it. Let it be a mention of a certain place or a certain character, or an actual appearance of a character from an earlier story. Those mentions and appearances are never obstrusive or too forced and never take away anything from the actual story at hand. I'm always excited to find out what places or characters Staci uses in her books next and in Living Out Loud there were quite a few earlier characters mentioned and a few even make an appearnce. Staci Hart fans will love it.
Living Out Loud is perfect for the romantics among us. The ones who who want to swoon over an amazing guy and an amazing story.
**********
Staci's words are 😍😍😍
RTC!
Read this and other reviews here: Brina and the Books
Living Out Loud is Hart's 3rd book in the Austen series and is a retelling of Jane Austen's Sense & Sensibility. I've read all Hart's Austen books and the more I read, the more I want to pick up the original and see what that is all about. Maybe I find some time to do that one of these days.
Hart's gut-wrenching romances always have something poetic. The words she uses to convey the story, the characters' feelings, and the situation they find themselves are magical. Her writing is amazing.
When you typically met someone, you found commonality, connections, topics for conversation, but it was some level of work, even if it was enjoyable work. It took effort. But sometimes, we met people we fell into stride with so naturally that the connection required no thought or cultivation; it threw all of your other relationships into shadow by the sheer of brilliance of the light.
For those who have read Jane Austen's Sense & Sensibility, know what the initial story of Living Out Loud is all about. I haven't, so everything was new to me.
Annie and Greg's story was beautiful and romantic; it was also very predictable - but in a good way. The predictability didn't take away anything from the experience of the story. Annie and Greg had to face some tough situations and had to make some even bigger decisions for them as a couple and as individuals. Even though I knew how the story was going to end, I wanted to know how they finally got there. I wanted to experience every smile, every tear, every laugh, and every kiss.
Staci Hart has written close to 15 books in the last few years and has created her own little Staci Hart Universe in New York City. With the exception of a few books, all her stories are complete standalones and can be read individualy. Yet, Staci Hart always finds a way to connect each and every book with each other and I love her for it. Let it be a mention of a certain place or a certain character, or an actual appearance of a character from an earlier story. Those mentions and appearances are never obstrusive or too forced and never take away anything from the actual story at hand. I'm always excited to find out what places or characters Staci uses in her books next and in Living Out Loud there were quite a few earlier characters mentioned and a few even make an appearnce. Staci Hart fans will love it.
Living Out Loud is perfect for the romantics among us. The ones who who want to swoon over an amazing guy and an amazing story.
**********
Staci's words are 😍😍😍
RTC!
January 7, 2023
3.75 stars.
I really did like this book a lot but I wanted to love it and unfortunately that didn't happen.
I really admire Staci Hart for taking on these Jane Austen classics and remaking them in a contemporary style that flows with characters from her other series. She really is a talented writer.
The problem for me with this loose adaptation of "Sense and Sensibility" was I kept picturing the 1996 Ang Lee movie that I love so much.
I found Annie Daschle to be a little weak and too naive, I missed the passionate and wilful Marianne (Kate Winslet) from the movie.
Also why did she have to make Will such a nasty piece of work. He was a complete "tool"and creepy with it. It made me wonder why Annie (even with her innocence and naivete) didn't push him to the curb a whole lot sooner.
Greg Brandon though was everything I could have wanted and more. His kindness and gentleness with Annie was so endearing. I loved all the scenes with the both of them.
I have to wonder what Staci has planned next for Anne's sister Elle (Elinor-the sensible sister from the Austen novel). I was surprised that we didn't get both sisters story here especially as their stories were so interwoven in the other novel.
I really did enjoy the ending here, it was so sweet.
Overall it was a good read, just a few issues for me.
I really did like this book a lot but I wanted to love it and unfortunately that didn't happen.
I really admire Staci Hart for taking on these Jane Austen classics and remaking them in a contemporary style that flows with characters from her other series. She really is a talented writer.
The problem for me with this loose adaptation of "Sense and Sensibility" was I kept picturing the 1996 Ang Lee movie that I love so much.
I found Annie Daschle to be a little weak and too naive, I missed the passionate and wilful Marianne (Kate Winslet) from the movie.
Also why did she have to make Will such a nasty piece of work. He was a complete "tool"and creepy with it. It made me wonder why Annie (even with her innocence and naivete) didn't push him to the curb a whole lot sooner.
Greg Brandon though was everything I could have wanted and more. His kindness and gentleness with Annie was so endearing. I loved all the scenes with the both of them.
I have to wonder what Staci has planned next for Anne's sister Elle (Elinor-the sensible sister from the Austen novel). I was surprised that we didn't get both sisters story here especially as their stories were so interwoven in the other novel.
I really did enjoy the ending here, it was so sweet.
Overall it was a good read, just a few issues for me.
January 31, 2018
INFINITE ”Not now.” Stars!
”I never saw Annie Daschle coming...”
Have you guys ever experienced an asthma attack? And if you haven’t, have you ever wondered what it felt like? I know weird question alert. Just bare with me, I promise there’s a point to this. There are asthma attacks you can feel coming, like your body just knows, and there are asthma attacks that sneak up on you out of no where. And honestly, this book has the feeling of both. Point blank, basically, the important thing about an asthma attack that pretty much IS this book in every way, is that moment before the attack hits. When everything around you goes silent, and your body is trying to tell you something. Then you heart rate increases showing know sign of slowing down. Your breathing starts to become light, then choppy, then heavy. And the only thing to stop it is the aid of something stronger, you know? Something bigger. Something IMPORTANT.
Living Out Loud *screams* everything I just used to describe an asthma attack. But in a good way, 100% NOT in a bad way. Because this book came out of left field and handed me my ass without me knowing it was coming. Because I can’t tell you guys how many times I lost my breath, and *felt* my heart in the depths of every beat, as I stumbled and crashed through this book. This is THAT Book. The book everyone absolutely NEEDS to read. The book that is so silently damaging in the way that it stays with you long after you finish it.
I can sit here and talk about the affects of this book forever. How well and intricately beautiful is was written. How Staci’s Austen inspired books always give off that sweet nostalgic, yet timeless feeling of everlasting love. But I would keep you here forever if I did that...
Greg Brandon is that character who had no problem where he was at in his life. He was happy. He has a wonderful tight knit family that he adored with everything in him. And friends who rounded out his world in such a positive light at his dream job. He was perfectly ok with where he was at.
But...
*Just* ok.
Until Annie.
”It was maybe only a heartbeat, a breath, but it felt like that second stretched out in a long thread between us.”
”But, out of nowhere, she would invade my mind like cigarette smoke. I’d wave thoughts of her away with a dour twist of my lips, all while jonesing for just one drag.”
”The knowledge that it was chemical, that it had no depth or roots, didn’t matter. Something in me recognized something in her, and that was that.”
And then there’s Annie. Sweet, adventurous Annie. Annie with the heart condition she didn’t deserve. Annie with her family as her rock behind her. Annie who would do anything to Live Out Loud for her father.
And then the Annie she became after Greg Brandon happened...
”Because for a moment, my pain was behind me in the coolness of my shadow and the whole world was spread out in front of me like a feast of possibility. And I would take a taste of everything I could.”
”And the sense of connection, forged by sharing an experience so profound to both of us, was so strong and alluring, I yielded to the heady desire for more.”
”They weren’t eyes of a friend or a boss or a big brother or uncle; those eyes sent a spark of heat through my chest and cheeks and pinched the air from my lungs.”
The saying, “timing is everything”, has never been as strong as it is in this book. Sometimes being silently enamored can be mistaken for something completely on the opposite side of the spectrum.
And when that happens, well...
”All things had a line that, once crossed, could not be stepped back over. And I had reached that line, passed it without realizing until I looked down. But instead of finding myself in her arms, I was pressed against the glass, the separation between us as thin as it was impenetrable.”
Sometimes, in every sense of the word, the chance encounter far beyond too late.
Get ready for Staci Hart to tilt your world on its axis. You will become breathless, and feel your heart more than you’ve ever FELT it before while reading a book, numerous times. Get ready to read your new top fav of 2018.
”I never saw Annie Daschle coming...”
Have you guys ever experienced an asthma attack? And if you haven’t, have you ever wondered what it felt like? I know weird question alert. Just bare with me, I promise there’s a point to this. There are asthma attacks you can feel coming, like your body just knows, and there are asthma attacks that sneak up on you out of no where. And honestly, this book has the feeling of both. Point blank, basically, the important thing about an asthma attack that pretty much IS this book in every way, is that moment before the attack hits. When everything around you goes silent, and your body is trying to tell you something. Then you heart rate increases showing know sign of slowing down. Your breathing starts to become light, then choppy, then heavy. And the only thing to stop it is the aid of something stronger, you know? Something bigger. Something IMPORTANT.
Living Out Loud *screams* everything I just used to describe an asthma attack. But in a good way, 100% NOT in a bad way. Because this book came out of left field and handed me my ass without me knowing it was coming. Because I can’t tell you guys how many times I lost my breath, and *felt* my heart in the depths of every beat, as I stumbled and crashed through this book. This is THAT Book. The book everyone absolutely NEEDS to read. The book that is so silently damaging in the way that it stays with you long after you finish it.
I can sit here and talk about the affects of this book forever. How well and intricately beautiful is was written. How Staci’s Austen inspired books always give off that sweet nostalgic, yet timeless feeling of everlasting love. But I would keep you here forever if I did that...
Greg Brandon is that character who had no problem where he was at in his life. He was happy. He has a wonderful tight knit family that he adored with everything in him. And friends who rounded out his world in such a positive light at his dream job. He was perfectly ok with where he was at.
But...
*Just* ok.
Until Annie.
”It was maybe only a heartbeat, a breath, but it felt like that second stretched out in a long thread between us.”
”But, out of nowhere, she would invade my mind like cigarette smoke. I’d wave thoughts of her away with a dour twist of my lips, all while jonesing for just one drag.”
”The knowledge that it was chemical, that it had no depth or roots, didn’t matter. Something in me recognized something in her, and that was that.”
And then there’s Annie. Sweet, adventurous Annie. Annie with the heart condition she didn’t deserve. Annie with her family as her rock behind her. Annie who would do anything to Live Out Loud for her father.
And then the Annie she became after Greg Brandon happened...
”Because for a moment, my pain was behind me in the coolness of my shadow and the whole world was spread out in front of me like a feast of possibility. And I would take a taste of everything I could.”
”And the sense of connection, forged by sharing an experience so profound to both of us, was so strong and alluring, I yielded to the heady desire for more.”
”They weren’t eyes of a friend or a boss or a big brother or uncle; those eyes sent a spark of heat through my chest and cheeks and pinched the air from my lungs.”
The saying, “timing is everything”, has never been as strong as it is in this book. Sometimes being silently enamored can be mistaken for something completely on the opposite side of the spectrum.
And when that happens, well...
”All things had a line that, once crossed, could not be stepped back over. And I had reached that line, passed it without realizing until I looked down. But instead of finding myself in her arms, I was pressed against the glass, the separation between us as thin as it was impenetrable.”
Sometimes, in every sense of the word, the chance encounter far beyond too late.
Get ready for Staci Hart to tilt your world on its axis. You will become breathless, and feel your heart more than you’ve ever FELT it before while reading a book, numerous times. Get ready to read your new top fav of 2018.
January 20, 2018
Who else is excited to get back to the Wasted Words world? I have missed this crew of hip and fun New Yorkers! Living Out Loud is the another complete standalone in the Wasted Words world and is yet another hit in my opinion.
Annie has always had a loving and supportive family and yet she has lived a tragic and sheltered life. Now she is living in the big city for the first time and is determined to cross some things off her list of things she has never done. Step one . . .get a job. This first giant leap into adulthood lands her at Wasted Words and on Greg's radar. Greg is instantly attracted to her but knows he is too old for her and she is too innocent for him, and yet, he can't stand sitting by watching her spread her wings with someone else.
Greg was such an amazing leading man HE was selfless and patient. His devotion never wavered and he gave Annie the time she needed to learn what she needs and wants. Annie's journey throughout this story is one of self-discovery. She is growing up and maturing and at the same time learning to let go of the preconceived notions of what she thinks she wants. Her story isn't easy but it one worth telling and one definitely worth reading. Join these two on their journey to finding love and happiness.
~miranda
Annie has always had a loving and supportive family and yet she has lived a tragic and sheltered life. Now she is living in the big city for the first time and is determined to cross some things off her list of things she has never done. Step one . . .get a job. This first giant leap into adulthood lands her at Wasted Words and on Greg's radar. Greg is instantly attracted to her but knows he is too old for her and she is too innocent for him, and yet, he can't stand sitting by watching her spread her wings with someone else.
Greg was such an amazing leading man HE was selfless and patient. His devotion never wavered and he gave Annie the time she needed to learn what she needs and wants. Annie's journey throughout this story is one of self-discovery. She is growing up and maturing and at the same time learning to let go of the preconceived notions of what she thinks she wants. Her story isn't easy but it one worth telling and one definitely worth reading. Join these two on their journey to finding love and happiness.
~miranda
February 1, 2018
"I think to love is to burn, and I want to set my heart on fire. Like Tristan and Isolde or Romeo and Juliet."
I'm glad that my second book by Staci Hart was such a beautiful read! Even more so, that I have no idea of Sense and Sensibility and my mind wasn't based.
"I was high from the contact, hungry for the feeling, desperate for more."
I can only repeat myself by saying that Staci has a wonderful talent working with words. They totally get to you and your heart so easily.
Again she created a heartbreaking story with characters that feel so real and down to earth. I'm in love how Staci breathes live into her characters.
"The end is just a beginning in disguise."
Living Out Loud is about the experience of first love. It's about how to deal with unexpected and new feelings. It's about selfless love and it's about loss. A loss that scatters your life to the bones and how we can learn to live with the pain. To grow from it and live out loud again.
"Daydreaming is fun and free and makes me happy. And if reality isn't what I've imagined, I'll just dream up something."
Annie is a character full of wonder and magic. I kind of see my younger self in her as well as my now. I love the optimism of her soul, the lightness of her heart and her lust for life. I love how she dreams about first love and falling in love because she expects that romance books come to live. Even though Annie's heart was broken in more ways than one, she showed a strength and maturity hat goes way above her age. However, at the same time she acts like a eighteen year old, inexperienced girl should act.
Staci found a great balance in showing us those different sides of Annie which compliment each other perfectly.
"When happiness lifted her up like a kite, I knew I'd do anything for her. Even if it meant the end of me."
Greg seems too good to be true. He's funny, smart, kind, caring and super hot. Greg is wearing his soul and his heart within his eyes, within the joy of his laughter and within the way he cares. As soon as he allows his feelings for Annie to be real, he cares more for her happiness than his own. Even it means that he would break. Isn't that what love should be about?
"Not all love is loud and assuming. Sometimes it's silent, especially when it puts someone else's happiness above its own."
Greg and Annie have a great chemistry and connection. It was obvious to everyone but Annie. But sometimes love takes detours we are unable to influence or foresee. Sometimes we need those detours to see more clearly.
"Love gives itself without condition or expectation simply because it must. Love is devotion."
Living Out Loud takes some turns I didn't expect and I wish we could have explored some situations a little deeper. Some things went a little to fast for my taste even though the story itself had a steady slow pace.
If you want to experience the innocence of first love all over again, through the eyes of a shining and strong personality, this book is a perfect way to do it!
I voluntarily reviewed an Advance Reader Copy of this wonderful book.
I'm glad that my second book by Staci Hart was such a beautiful read! Even more so, that I have no idea of Sense and Sensibility and my mind wasn't based.
"I was high from the contact, hungry for the feeling, desperate for more."
I can only repeat myself by saying that Staci has a wonderful talent working with words. They totally get to you and your heart so easily.
Again she created a heartbreaking story with characters that feel so real and down to earth. I'm in love how Staci breathes live into her characters.
"The end is just a beginning in disguise."
Living Out Loud is about the experience of first love. It's about how to deal with unexpected and new feelings. It's about selfless love and it's about loss. A loss that scatters your life to the bones and how we can learn to live with the pain. To grow from it and live out loud again.
"Daydreaming is fun and free and makes me happy. And if reality isn't what I've imagined, I'll just dream up something."
Annie is a character full of wonder and magic. I kind of see my younger self in her as well as my now. I love the optimism of her soul, the lightness of her heart and her lust for life. I love how she dreams about first love and falling in love because she expects that romance books come to live. Even though Annie's heart was broken in more ways than one, she showed a strength and maturity hat goes way above her age. However, at the same time she acts like a eighteen year old, inexperienced girl should act.
Staci found a great balance in showing us those different sides of Annie which compliment each other perfectly.
"When happiness lifted her up like a kite, I knew I'd do anything for her. Even if it meant the end of me."
Greg seems too good to be true. He's funny, smart, kind, caring and super hot. Greg is wearing his soul and his heart within his eyes, within the joy of his laughter and within the way he cares. As soon as he allows his feelings for Annie to be real, he cares more for her happiness than his own. Even it means that he would break. Isn't that what love should be about?
"Not all love is loud and assuming. Sometimes it's silent, especially when it puts someone else's happiness above its own."
Greg and Annie have a great chemistry and connection. It was obvious to everyone but Annie. But sometimes love takes detours we are unable to influence or foresee. Sometimes we need those detours to see more clearly.
"Love gives itself without condition or expectation simply because it must. Love is devotion."
Living Out Loud takes some turns I didn't expect and I wish we could have explored some situations a little deeper. Some things went a little to fast for my taste even though the story itself had a steady slow pace.
If you want to experience the innocence of first love all over again, through the eyes of a shining and strong personality, this book is a perfect way to do it!
I voluntarily reviewed an Advance Reader Copy of this wonderful book.
July 2, 2022
5 ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️- Excellent - Highly Recommended
4 ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ - A good, solid read
3 ⭐️⭐️⭐️ - An okay read
2 ⭐️⭐️ - Meh
1 ⭐️ - Not my cup of tea
This was a sweet love story. If you are looking for a heart touching story, this is the right book for you. Staci knows how to touch your heart and soul.
4 ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ - A good, solid read
3 ⭐️⭐️⭐️ - An okay read
2 ⭐️⭐️ - Meh
1 ⭐️ - Not my cup of tea
This was a sweet love story. If you are looking for a heart touching story, this is the right book for you. Staci knows how to touch your heart and soul.
February 13, 2018
3 stars for Greg and Greg alone ♥️
March 20, 2021
3/4 ⭐️
Ho interrotto la Flynn perché non avevo il tempo e la testa per concentrarmi nel modo giusto su quel libro, cercavo una storia carina ma più leggera e qui il potenziale c’era tutto ma non mi ha comunque soddisfatto 🙆🏼♀️ Tutto procede troppo velocemente, non ho nemmeno ben capito come lui si sia sentito così attratto da lei tutt’ad un tratto. Mi aspettavo più emozioni, anche perché, nonostante resti una lettura leggera, qualche tema più delicato viene trattato. Poteva essere meglio.
Ho interrotto la Flynn perché non avevo il tempo e la testa per concentrarmi nel modo giusto su quel libro, cercavo una storia carina ma più leggera e qui il potenziale c’era tutto ma non mi ha comunque soddisfatto 🙆🏼♀️ Tutto procede troppo velocemente, non ho nemmeno ben capito come lui si sia sentito così attratto da lei tutt’ad un tratto. Mi aspettavo più emozioni, anche perché, nonostante resti una lettura leggera, qualche tema più delicato viene trattato. Poteva essere meglio.
February 27, 2018
when I first saw this, my first reaction was YAY ANOTHER AUSTEN BOOK. then my next reaction was but it's still not P&P.
here's the thing - I LOVE S&S. So much. I have a hard time choosing which Austen is my second favourite after P&P (except Mansfield Park), and I really really love S&S. The book, all the movie/series adaptations.. that being said, I don't know if I've ever loved a retelling just because some things do not translate well to a modern retelling. If it was any other author, I might have been hesitant, but because it is Staci Hart, I didn't even blink, just one clicked that shit.
and of course, I wasn't disappointed. I love Staci Hart's writing so much.
I will admit, I was a bit surprised that it was from Marianne's/Annie's point of view. I thought it would tell the whole story, but Elle/Elinor's story is not told - which I thought was odd until you get to the end and it says her book is next - YAAASSS. But the reason I was surprised is because even though S&S tells the story of both sisters, I've always kinda considered it Elinor's book? Like I love Marianne but she can be a frustrating character. I love her ending though. So I was worried just a bit that I wouldn't love this one because it's only Marianne's story, but that was obviously stupid, please see aforementioned love of Hart's writing.
Like the other two in this series, it has the essence of the original Austen, but tells its own story. Hart just makes it work so well. There are similarities, there are differences. My absolute favourite part about this book, hands down, is that we got Greg's POV, aka Colonel Brandon!
It was seriously perfect. It added everything to the story. All the yes. I didn't have many feelings for Greg in Wasted Words, I wanted there to be more conflict with Bayleigh or whatever her name was, because he was Elton-ish, yeah? But I'm glad there wasn't, because then you don't hate him in this one. Oh it was so lovely to see all the characters again. Can I just work there please? It sounds like such an awesome place.
I love love love how their relationship progressed. Normally I'm not a fan of age differences, I just can't relate to it personally, but considering there's a large age gap in the original, it makes sense in this one. Plus Annie grows a lot in this, and she is mature from everything she's gone through. She's also immature and idealistic, in the way that only Marianne Dashwood can be. I loved the differences in this one, how Marianne - I mean, Annie - and Greg actually built up a friendship. It was so, so, so lovely.
I don't have anything else to say. I can't wait for Elle's book, I would cry if Staci Hart wrote a Northanger retelling and I'd die if she wrote a P&P one fo sho.
here's the thing - I LOVE S&S. So much. I have a hard time choosing which Austen is my second favourite after P&P (except Mansfield Park), and I really really love S&S. The book, all the movie/series adaptations.. that being said, I don't know if I've ever loved a retelling just because some things do not translate well to a modern retelling. If it was any other author, I might have been hesitant, but because it is Staci Hart, I didn't even blink, just one clicked that shit.
and of course, I wasn't disappointed. I love Staci Hart's writing so much.
I will admit, I was a bit surprised that it was from Marianne's/Annie's point of view. I thought it would tell the whole story, but Elle/Elinor's story is not told - which I thought was odd until you get to the end and it says her book is next - YAAASSS. But the reason I was surprised is because even though S&S tells the story of both sisters, I've always kinda considered it Elinor's book? Like I love Marianne but she can be a frustrating character. I love her ending though. So I was worried just a bit that I wouldn't love this one because it's only Marianne's story, but that was obviously stupid, please see aforementioned love of Hart's writing.
Like the other two in this series, it has the essence of the original Austen, but tells its own story. Hart just makes it work so well. There are similarities, there are differences. My absolute favourite part about this book, hands down, is that we got Greg's POV, aka Colonel Brandon!
It was seriously perfect. It added everything to the story. All the yes. I didn't have many feelings for Greg in Wasted Words, I wanted there to be more conflict with Bayleigh or whatever her name was, because he was Elton-ish, yeah? But I'm glad there wasn't, because then you don't hate him in this one. Oh it was so lovely to see all the characters again. Can I just work there please? It sounds like such an awesome place.
I love love love how their relationship progressed. Normally I'm not a fan of age differences, I just can't relate to it personally, but considering there's a large age gap in the original, it makes sense in this one. Plus Annie grows a lot in this, and she is mature from everything she's gone through. She's also immature and idealistic, in the way that only Marianne Dashwood can be. I loved the differences in this one, how Marianne - I mean, Annie - and Greg actually built up a friendship. It was so, so, so lovely.
“I don’t deserve you,” she whispered, resting her hand on my jaw. “The feeling’s mutual,” I whispered back.
I don't have anything else to say. I can't wait for Elle's book, I would cry if Staci Hart wrote a Northanger retelling and I'd die if she wrote a P&P one fo sho.
October 13, 2020
Staci Harts follow up to A Thousand Letters, one of my very most favorite books ever, Living Out Loud is a wonderful twist on my favorite Jane Austen book. What a score for me! I do adore Staci Harts writing and I adore his book! It's a unique homage to Austen, capturing just enough for the reader to recognize the similarities (characters traits mostly) while keeping the story line fresh. I was most impressed with her ability to recognize someone who she could trust.
The story focuses on middle sister, Annie Daschle, as the family transitions to a new living situation, moving from a small town in Texas to New York City. For Annie this move is a new beginning, a chance to experience things not available in her native small town. I have to say, Annie s one of my favorite eighteen year old characters. For the most part she's pretty astute, but she's young and hasn't honed all the skills that take observation to instinct. If I knew her in person I would say she's lovely. Her innocence, in many ways brought about by her heart condition, is refreshing, almost "old fashioned". As she ventures out she finds herself a job, a great friend, and a few love interests.
One of them being someone we met in Staci's book Last Call, Greg Brandon. Greg is older and wiser and considers the 10 year age gap between them with skepticism. I myself love older man, younger woman romance and we get it in spades. The slow burn blossoming of romantic love, going from friends to lovers is wondrous and beautiful. He's is an absolute gem. With that you know there is gonna be some drama, but Hart keeps it in check.
As always , Staci's words are profound and poetic. I'm repeating myself from another review when I say I.love.all.her.words! and that she's is Incomparable Greg's thoughts are absolutely poetic and I fell in love every time he reflects on his growing adoration of Annie.
"There were roots— I could feel them working their way through me. They weren’t superficial, spreading out under the surface; they were the kind of roots you could never excavate, the kind that became a part of all they touched in the most permanent way."
And when Annie reflects on Greg:
"His beauty lay in the depths of his eyes where his heart and soul lived, in the joy of his laughter and the way he cared. Because he did care; he cared deeply."
Living Out Loud is the perfect read. I felt heartbreak and hope, giddiness and fear. But most of all that rush of falling in love.
* I was gifted a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review*
The story focuses on middle sister, Annie Daschle, as the family transitions to a new living situation, moving from a small town in Texas to New York City. For Annie this move is a new beginning, a chance to experience things not available in her native small town. I have to say, Annie s one of my favorite eighteen year old characters. For the most part she's pretty astute, but she's young and hasn't honed all the skills that take observation to instinct. If I knew her in person I would say she's lovely. Her innocence, in many ways brought about by her heart condition, is refreshing, almost "old fashioned". As she ventures out she finds herself a job, a great friend, and a few love interests.
One of them being someone we met in Staci's book Last Call, Greg Brandon. Greg is older and wiser and considers the 10 year age gap between them with skepticism. I myself love older man, younger woman romance and we get it in spades. The slow burn blossoming of romantic love, going from friends to lovers is wondrous and beautiful. He's is an absolute gem. With that you know there is gonna be some drama, but Hart keeps it in check.
As always , Staci's words are profound and poetic. I'm repeating myself from another review when I say I.love.all.her.words! and that she's is Incomparable Greg's thoughts are absolutely poetic and I fell in love every time he reflects on his growing adoration of Annie.
"There were roots— I could feel them working their way through me. They weren’t superficial, spreading out under the surface; they were the kind of roots you could never excavate, the kind that became a part of all they touched in the most permanent way."
And when Annie reflects on Greg:
"His beauty lay in the depths of his eyes where his heart and soul lived, in the joy of his laughter and the way he cared. Because he did care; he cared deeply."
Living Out Loud is the perfect read. I felt heartbreak and hope, giddiness and fear. But most of all that rush of falling in love.
* I was gifted a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review*
January 27, 2018
4.5*'s
I am really getting a kick out of this series. I love the play on them relating to the Jane Austen books. I feel it is so much more that one story and it takes me on a different tangent and seeing these characters in both worlds.
This book was so sweet and mainly due to Annie because she is adorable. She is young and naive but so precious and not because she is ill - gosh no - she is strong in more ways despite of it. The family connection is solid but my heart aches for their loss and sadness. Although Annie is the one that will keep them going.
Greg - Oh Greg! What a Champ! What he had to endure, oh my heart! I so wanted to hug him and ease his pain. I completely understand why Annie fell for Will. We have these book boyfriends and then if a real life guy comes along and says all the right things, I'd fall for him too. Not that Greg isn't BBF material because ..... um yes he is! He'd slay a dragon for his Annie, and he did just that with Will. My only grievance is I wanted Will to receive more justice and I didn't believe his apology - it felt out of character and unbelievable. I am hoping that Aunt Susan will be doing some social justice showcasing Will's personality.
I am not a person who buys a book solely on their covers but OMG Staci's are the best! I love them. Can not wait to see Elle's cover and read her adventure.
*I am very grateful for the copy provided by the author for my honest opinion.
*Reviewed by Monique for JoandIsaLoveBooksBlog.
I am really getting a kick out of this series. I love the play on them relating to the Jane Austen books. I feel it is so much more that one story and it takes me on a different tangent and seeing these characters in both worlds.
This book was so sweet and mainly due to Annie because she is adorable. She is young and naive but so precious and not because she is ill - gosh no - she is strong in more ways despite of it. The family connection is solid but my heart aches for their loss and sadness. Although Annie is the one that will keep them going.
Greg - Oh Greg! What a Champ! What he had to endure, oh my heart! I so wanted to hug him and ease his pain. I completely understand why Annie fell for Will. We have these book boyfriends and then if a real life guy comes along and says all the right things, I'd fall for him too. Not that Greg isn't BBF material because ..... um yes he is! He'd slay a dragon for his Annie, and he did just that with Will. My only grievance is I wanted Will to receive more justice and I didn't believe his apology - it felt out of character and unbelievable. I am hoping that Aunt Susan will be doing some social justice showcasing Will's personality.
I am not a person who buys a book solely on their covers but OMG Staci's are the best! I love them. Can not wait to see Elle's cover and read her adventure.
*I am very grateful for the copy provided by the author for my honest opinion.
*Reviewed by Monique for JoandIsaLoveBooksBlog.
February 5, 2018
Staci's books have this magical way of giving me exactly what I need when I need it. Healing. Anticipatory goosebumps. Lyrical tenderness. Sigh-worthy happy endings. Living Out Loud kept me in a wistful state of dreamy glee from start to finish. Five loud, lemonade pink stars for this Austen-inspired love story.
February 1, 2018
Full review can be found here - https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
An ARC was provived in exchange for an honest review. ~Sonal
An ARC was provived in exchange for an honest review. ~Sonal
March 31, 2021
Recensione sul blog --> https://www.leggereromanticamente.com...
Il romanzo scorre piacevolmente e, ad eccezione della personale sensazione di leggera ‘noia’ iniziale, ha degli ottimi elementi al suo interno. Lo consiglio agli amanti di New York (come la sottoscritta), a chi crede nell’amore che non per forza deve essere fuochi d’artificio, ma che può mostrarsi nella forma di una ciambella (capirete leggendo) e a chi ha voglia di una storia di riscatto da una vita che ha tolto così tanto a chi non se lo meritava proprio.
Il romanzo scorre piacevolmente e, ad eccezione della personale sensazione di leggera ‘noia’ iniziale, ha degli ottimi elementi al suo interno. Lo consiglio agli amanti di New York (come la sottoscritta), a chi crede nell’amore che non per forza deve essere fuochi d’artificio, ma che può mostrarsi nella forma di una ciambella (capirete leggendo) e a chi ha voglia di una storia di riscatto da una vita che ha tolto così tanto a chi non se lo meritava proprio.
January 24, 2018
This review has been so hard to write. Why? Because this book was excellent and nothing I've written has done it any justice. At all.
Hart delivers a very realistic take on a naive girl and a boy who wants to protect her innocence. Greg sees the world in a whole new way when he looks at Annie. She is the very definition of sunshine and rainbows - despite her life experiences. Through Annie, he is able to see more than the hectic nature of life in NYC. He sees HER and how she experiences life so freely.
Having suddenly relocated to NYC, Annie finds that there is more to life than books and music and living quietly. After losing her dad, she decides to "live out loud" and she does. She takes that mentality with her through this series of events. She wants to experience every thing she can, within reason, and does it enviable gusto. The things she wants to do aren't silly or exorbitant - they're simple and very Annie.
I love how Greg does his best to keep her happiness at the fore even when it's detrimental to what he wants. He absolutely adores Annie and is willing to sacrifice much of himself in order to see her reach her goals, even if it isn't with him.
This book feels like a very quick read. I absorbed it as one does air, effortlessly. I soaked in the words and let them stay with me as I read them, as I do in every Hart novel.
To give this book five stars feel inadequate. I wish I could give it more.
Hart delivers a very realistic take on a naive girl and a boy who wants to protect her innocence. Greg sees the world in a whole new way when he looks at Annie. She is the very definition of sunshine and rainbows - despite her life experiences. Through Annie, he is able to see more than the hectic nature of life in NYC. He sees HER and how she experiences life so freely.
Having suddenly relocated to NYC, Annie finds that there is more to life than books and music and living quietly. After losing her dad, she decides to "live out loud" and she does. She takes that mentality with her through this series of events. She wants to experience every thing she can, within reason, and does it enviable gusto. The things she wants to do aren't silly or exorbitant - they're simple and very Annie.
I love how Greg does his best to keep her happiness at the fore even when it's detrimental to what he wants. He absolutely adores Annie and is willing to sacrifice much of himself in order to see her reach her goals, even if it isn't with him.
This book feels like a very quick read. I absorbed it as one does air, effortlessly. I soaked in the words and let them stay with me as I read them, as I do in every Hart novel.
To give this book five stars feel inadequate. I wish I could give it more.
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