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Beachwood Bay #0.5
Untouched
Welcome to Beachwood Bay: the small town where passion and romance are making waves…
Emerson Ray is trouble. Juliet knows it the minute she lays eyes on Beachwood Bay's resident bad boy. Forced to spend her summer before college in the sleepy beach town, she never expected to crash into the most devastating guy she's ever met--or for Emerson's blue eyes to strip through her dark secrets, and make her feel a desire she's never known. Their connection is undeniable, but Juliet is torn. She knows, once she gives him everything, there'll be no turning back.
Juliet McKenzie is dangerous. Emerson can tell from the way she blows through all his defenses, laying bare the demons he's carried alone all his life. He's left a trail of broken hearts and empty beds in his wake, but Juliet is different. Her innocence is intoxicating--and the passion she keeps hidden, just below the surface. He wants to be the only one to set it free, but with every kiss, he's closer to losing control and doing the one thing he swore he never would: fall in love.
One summer. Two damaged hearts. Their story is only just beginning...
Emerson Ray is trouble. Juliet knows it the minute she lays eyes on Beachwood Bay's resident bad boy. Forced to spend her summer before college in the sleepy beach town, she never expected to crash into the most devastating guy she's ever met--or for Emerson's blue eyes to strip through her dark secrets, and make her feel a desire she's never known. Their connection is undeniable, but Juliet is torn. She knows, once she gives him everything, there'll be no turning back.
Juliet McKenzie is dangerous. Emerson can tell from the way she blows through all his defenses, laying bare the demons he's carried alone all his life. He's left a trail of broken hearts and empty beds in his wake, but Juliet is different. Her innocence is intoxicating--and the passion she keeps hidden, just below the surface. He wants to be the only one to set it free, but with every kiss, he's closer to losing control and doing the one thing he swore he never would: fall in love.
One summer. Two damaged hearts. Their story is only just beginning...
117 pages, ebook
First published May 12, 2013
About the author
Melody Grace
67 books2,588 followersNYT bestselling author of small-town romance. A new chapter in the Sweetbriar Cove series begins with Two Hearts - July 30th!
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 447 reviews
March 27, 2017
TOP 3 REASONS Untouched IS HELLA ANNOYING.
In this prequel to Melody Grace's Unbroken, we learn how Emerson Ray (bad boy, manwhore, townie, extraordinaire) and Juliet McKenzie (good girl, virgin, summer person, extraordinairess) meet and fall in love after (roughly) 24 hours of together time.
YEAH. I’M ANNOYED! And here’s why (from least to most annoying):
#3: THE HEROINE IS A BITCH.
NO. BEING A BITCH MAKES YOU A BITCH.
EXHIBIT A: Consider Juliet's attitude towards her mother.
" 'Just like when you were younger, right?'
'It’s smaller.' I reply shortly.
She laughs, 'You’re just bigger now. My baby girl, all grown up.'
I duck past her to avoid a hug. 'I’m going to unpack.'
Three months, with my family. It’s bad enough at home: watching Dad knock back scotch. Worse still, Mom turns a blind eye to it. Part of me resents her for staying with him. Choosing to love him. She could find something better, but she waits for affection that never comes." ~ Juliet.
EXHIBIT B: Now, contrast it with her attitude towards a stranger’s mother.
" 'Your mom’s in withdrawal. She’s trying to fight it, but the cravings strong. What is it, meth? Painkillers?'
I look away, but Juliet keeps talking.
'She’ll get through the worst of it soon, but you’ve got to be kinder. She needs your support.' " ~ Juliet & Emerson.
IS THAT THE VILE STENCH OF HYPOCRISY I SMELL? Why, yes… Yes, it is! I’m not fond of people who treat strangers better than their own family. And people who spew fake sympathy for strangers who are related to a hot guy? Yeah. I’m particularly not fond of them.
#2: THE STORY IS BORING.
“It doesn’t take long to tour the entirety of Cedar Cove, and soon, I’m right back where I started. I pull over, fastening my bike up outside a cute little diner I remember serving the biggest ice-cream floats ever. I must have been seven years old back then, but when I step inside the door, it hasn’t changed at all. Red chequered linoleum covers the floor, and a jukebox in the corner plays Motown songs…" [And blah, blah, blah for several pages…]. ~ Juliet.
YO! MELODY GRACE! THIS IS A NOVELLA. I don’t give a flying frack about the size of Cedar Cove or the color of the diner’s linoleum. You have a limited amount of pages, so get to the effin’ good stuff already. If you didn’t spend so much time on boring details, your characters wouldn’t have to experience…
#1. INSTA-EVERYTHING!
INSTA-TRUST: “It feels weird telling her this, when I’ve spent so long hiding it from the world. But I know somehow, she won’t judge me like everyone else.” ~ Emerson.
How in the hell does he “know somehow” she “won’t judge” him? He’s only known her an hour!
INSTA-LUST: “Blood rushes through me with fierce heat. She wants me. My self-control is obliterated. I reach for her again, and this time, I don’t stop.”
~ Emerson.
Again… they’ve known each other for a frigging hour!
AND… INSTA-LOVE: “He changed me. I saw my future in him, that first day on the highway; felt a connection that shouldn’t be broken. It’s the truest thing I’ve ever known. He’s mine. I’m his. We belong to each other now, and I have to make him see it, because life without him hurts too much to bear. I love him.” ~ Juliet.
Seriously? She’s 18 years old and never had a boyfriend, but after spending a few hours with Emerson she’s “changed”? And, formed “a connection that shouldn’t be broken”? And, she ”loves him”?
ANYLEIA… Given all the hella annoying things about this book, you’re probably wondering why I gave it 2 stars? Well, it’s well written. And, though I found it hypocritical, dull as dirt, insta-everything drivel, others might not be bothered by that stuff. So…
Untouched by Melody Grace: 2 "Hella Annoying" Stars.
Here's a link to my review of Unbroken (Beachwood Bay 01), by Melody Grace: Click Me Baby
For information about my rating system, see my profile page.
In this prequel to Melody Grace's Unbroken, we learn how Emerson Ray (bad boy, manwhore, townie, extraordinaire) and Juliet McKenzie (good girl, virgin, summer person, extraordinairess) meet and fall in love after (roughly) 24 hours of together time.
YEAH. I’M ANNOYED! And here’s why (from least to most annoying):
#3: THE HEROINE IS A BITCH.
NO. BEING A BITCH MAKES YOU A BITCH.
EXHIBIT A: Consider Juliet's attitude towards her mother.
" 'Just like when you were younger, right?'
'It’s smaller.' I reply shortly.
She laughs, 'You’re just bigger now. My baby girl, all grown up.'
I duck past her to avoid a hug. 'I’m going to unpack.'
Three months, with my family. It’s bad enough at home: watching Dad knock back scotch. Worse still, Mom turns a blind eye to it. Part of me resents her for staying with him. Choosing to love him. She could find something better, but she waits for affection that never comes." ~ Juliet.
EXHIBIT B: Now, contrast it with her attitude towards a stranger’s mother.
" 'Your mom’s in withdrawal. She’s trying to fight it, but the cravings strong. What is it, meth? Painkillers?'
I look away, but Juliet keeps talking.
'She’ll get through the worst of it soon, but you’ve got to be kinder. She needs your support.' " ~ Juliet & Emerson.
IS THAT THE VILE STENCH OF HYPOCRISY I SMELL? Why, yes… Yes, it is! I’m not fond of people who treat strangers better than their own family. And people who spew fake sympathy for strangers who are related to a hot guy? Yeah. I’m particularly not fond of them.
#2: THE STORY IS BORING.
“It doesn’t take long to tour the entirety of Cedar Cove, and soon, I’m right back where I started. I pull over, fastening my bike up outside a cute little diner I remember serving the biggest ice-cream floats ever. I must have been seven years old back then, but when I step inside the door, it hasn’t changed at all. Red chequered linoleum covers the floor, and a jukebox in the corner plays Motown songs…" [And blah, blah, blah for several pages…]. ~ Juliet.
YO! MELODY GRACE! THIS IS A NOVELLA. I don’t give a flying frack about the size of Cedar Cove or the color of the diner’s linoleum. You have a limited amount of pages, so get to the effin’ good stuff already. If you didn’t spend so much time on boring details, your characters wouldn’t have to experience…
#1. INSTA-EVERYTHING!
INSTA-TRUST: “It feels weird telling her this, when I’ve spent so long hiding it from the world. But I know somehow, she won’t judge me like everyone else.” ~ Emerson.
How in the hell does he “know somehow” she “won’t judge” him? He’s only known her an hour!
INSTA-LUST: “Blood rushes through me with fierce heat. She wants me. My self-control is obliterated. I reach for her again, and this time, I don’t stop.”
~ Emerson.
Again… they’ve known each other for a frigging hour!
AND… INSTA-LOVE: “He changed me. I saw my future in him, that first day on the highway; felt a connection that shouldn’t be broken. It’s the truest thing I’ve ever known. He’s mine. I’m his. We belong to each other now, and I have to make him see it, because life without him hurts too much to bear. I love him.” ~ Juliet.
Seriously? She’s 18 years old and never had a boyfriend, but after spending a few hours with Emerson she’s “changed”? And, formed “a connection that shouldn’t be broken”? And, she ”loves him”?
ANYLEIA… Given all the hella annoying things about this book, you’re probably wondering why I gave it 2 stars? Well, it’s well written. And, though I found it hypocritical, dull as dirt, insta-everything drivel, others might not be bothered by that stuff. So…
Untouched by Melody Grace: 2 "Hella Annoying" Stars.
Here's a link to my review of Unbroken (Beachwood Bay 01), by Melody Grace: Click Me Baby
For information about my rating system, see my profile page.
September 1, 2020
Well, this was indeed a good short story. I cannot go into much detail without taking anything away from you, but it is a very sweet and pure tale about two extraordinary people on the search for something even more uncommon: love.
Want to read
September 24, 2015
FREE on Amazon US today (9/24/2015)
FIRST 3 books in series are FREE!
Untouched is prologue to Unbroken.
Untamed is the prologue to Unafraid.
BLURB:
Emerson Ray is trouble. Juliet knows it the minute she lays eyes on Beachwood Bay's resident bad boy. Forced to spend her summer before college in the sleepy beach town, she never expected to crash into the most devastating guy she’s ever met—or for Emerson’s blue eyes to strip through her dark secrets, and make her feel a desire she’s never known. Their connection is undeniable, but Juliet is torn. She knows, once she gives him everything, there’ll be no turning back.
Juliet McKenzie is dangerous. Emerson can tell from the way she blows through all his defences, laying bare the demons he’s carried alone all his life. He’s left a trail of broken hearts and empty beds in his wake, but Juliet is different. Her innocence is intoxicating—and the passion she keeps hidden, just below the surface. He wants to be the only one to set it free, but with every kiss, he’s closer to losing control and doing the one thing he swore he never would: fall in love.
http://www.amazon.com/Untouched-Beach...
FREEBIES are often good for MORE than one day, I have gathered all my FREEBIES on a special shelf: Kindle-freebies (currently over 470 books)
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March 16, 2015
Favorite quote: don't have any. (It was so quick, I forgot all the lines)
Cover Definitely got my attention, it's one of the reason I got the book, (Vector rocks)
Opening It was good, but not that exciting enough to hook me much.
Hero Emerson, is sweet and all, but to much complications.
Heroine I don't like her. I'll explain why, on my Unbroken (book 1) review.
Other Characters since this is a novella, I didn't have time to choose which of the other characters, I liked most.
Relationships okay, I hated this part, come on, they're attracted but 2 weeks is too instant, I wanted to see some form of bond between them before they decide that they're worth it.
Dialogue Truth be told, I read this book last night, and I don't really remember what happened.
The plot It's one of those books that makes you want to wish you can go on a summer break, meet someone that will change your life forever. Hey meeting a sexy stranger, with lots of family problems seals the deal.
Scene all I remember is the first time they met, and the scene where Juliet was developing pictures, so hot!
Ending novella right? so expected cliffhanger.
Pace very fast, but I think there wasn't much of chemistry between Jules and Emerson at first, sure they're attracted to each other, but other that that, I felt like they were forced into the instalove so much.
Enjoyment I didn't enjoy it, but I look forward into reading the first book (maybe I should have started with the first on)
Recomendations I recommend you guys to read Ubroken first! *this novella will suck so bad if you didn't do so.
August 29, 2016
Emerson Ray is Beachwood Bay's resident bad boy, waking up from another black out night with yet another girl he doesn't remember he heads into work. On the way Emerson ends up in an accident in which he meets the fiery Juliet McKenzie.Emerson and Juliet find that they have a lot in common in their lives and begin spending time together but will they build something more or will it be just another fling for Emerson?
Untouched is a companion novella in the Beachwood Bay series by Melody Grace. I haven't read the entire series myself but being romance the books generally are fine to read as standalones so this seemed to be alright without the others.
I actually enjoy Melody Grace's writing as this isn't the first of her books I have read but with this one I just wasn't a fan of the characters and situations together. The characters in here are fairly young but we have yet another womanizer bad boy that he heroine is sure to think she can find that good side in there. Couldn't help but think to myself, girl you are young just move on.
Overall, 2.5 stars, good writing just wasn't a fan of this couple myself.
For more reviews please visit https://carriesbookreviews.wordpress....
Untouched is a companion novella in the Beachwood Bay series by Melody Grace. I haven't read the entire series myself but being romance the books generally are fine to read as standalones so this seemed to be alright without the others.
I actually enjoy Melody Grace's writing as this isn't the first of her books I have read but with this one I just wasn't a fan of the characters and situations together. The characters in here are fairly young but we have yet another womanizer bad boy that he heroine is sure to think she can find that good side in there. Couldn't help but think to myself, girl you are young just move on.
Overall, 2.5 stars, good writing just wasn't a fan of this couple myself.
For more reviews please visit https://carriesbookreviews.wordpress....
May 14, 2013
This book is the prequel to Unbroken. It's a beautiful and unfortunately short story of how Emerson and Jules meet and how they fell in love. It's sweet and heartbreaking as we get a look into Emerson's home life and how he doubts himself so much. But it shows how strong Jules was, how she wouldn't accept anything other than true passion. I'm grateful to Melody for giving us a piece of their summer ♥
March 31, 2015
This could have been a good story. The writing was actually enjoyable and the story had potential. Maybe if the author had written a full novel and explored the characters more deeply I would have enjoyed this. The obssesive love between Juliet and Emerson was just too much for me. They met one day and pretty much the next they were in love. Just not my kind of story. There needed to be more character development and story development.
March 30, 2015
Actual rating - 2.5
The characters in this were okay, but I didn't love them, and I didn't love their relationship either.
This wasn't an awful read, but I am really, really glad that it was only short and finished at 68%.
The characters in this were okay, but I didn't love them, and I didn't love their relationship either.
This wasn't an awful read, but I am really, really glad that it was only short and finished at 68%.
May 20, 2013
“I didn’t realize: sometimes fate is the hardest choice of all…It’s an act of faith. A miracle…But you have to decide: give yourself up and surrender to a force far greater than you will ever understand, or turn and walk away…”
Juliet wants to get away, so much so that she has applied and gotten into college clear across the country. All she has to do is get through the summer with her family; then it’s a fresh start. Easier said than done. Juliet’s family vacation isn’t a happy one. With a drunk for a father, a snob for a sister and a mom who just wants attention and affection, the trip to their vacation home in Cedar Cove is just one more hoop to jump through on her path to freedom. How was she to know a blown tire would land her face-to-face with the one person who could change her entire life direction?
Emerson is the local bad boy. Life hasn’t dealt him the fairest of hands; his mom is an addict, he’s never met his father, and he works three jobs to support her, himself, and his two younger siblings. Struggling daily to keep track of his mother; angry is not a strong enough word. Emerson has lost all hope for his life ever amounting to something more than it is. When he nearly crashes into the summer girl with the bad attitude and raven hair, something flairs deep within him…and it all starts with her.
“She’s standing right in front of me, those beautiful lips parted with anger, her fists clenched by her sides. Even if she hadn’t just told me all of that, I would know the truth from the look of dark bitterness in her eyes. She knows. She’s been here. She’s damaged, just like me.”
This novella/prequel grabbed me from the very first page. Emerson and Juliet each need something the other has to offer, they need each other. He needs hope and she needs purpose. They start a fast-paced, love-at-first-sight, summer romance; from that very first encounter, they were connected. She saw him, the real, deep-down-hiding-from-everyone him, and she didn’t run. He showed her that despite the odds, one can be good and they have fallen—hard. I really loved them, their chemistry is absolutely hot. The unknown of the future is still hanging in the balance…I will be reading Unbroken to find out what happens next!
**4 Aching Stars**
May 12, 2013
More reviews at: http://bookfixation.blogspot.com/
Untouched is the prequel novella to the amazing book named Unbroken by Melody Grace! I was mega excited to start this one! Ever since I read Unbroken I've been dying to see how was Juliet and Emerson's relationship when they first got together. Also this book was dual POV so we get to go inside of Emerson's head and that was mega nice!
This book was everything that I expected it to be! We have the meeting, this time from Emerson's POV, and also sweet moments, sexy moments and the darkroom scene ;)
This book was short but it definitely had a whole bunch of sexy! The passion and connection between Juliet and Emerson is difficult to ignore. Melody Grace really knows how to write some great romance!
This one can be read as a stand-alone but I highly recommend you read not only this one but Unbroken also! They are amazing books!
Rating: 5 stars out 5!
Favorite Quotes:
"Yes, fate was real, and his name was Emerson Ray. He came crashing into me that summer, sending my plans scattering on the wind, and turning my whole world upside-down with just one wounded smile. I looked at him and knew, there would be nothing easy about our destiny; nothing simple about my surrender."
"All I wanted was her. Someone to look at me, and see past my bullshit. Someone to think I was worth a damn.
Juliet."
"I vow to myself, to never let him feel that way again. I can love him, and protect him from the pain. We can heal each other."
Untouched is the prequel novella to the amazing book named Unbroken by Melody Grace! I was mega excited to start this one! Ever since I read Unbroken I've been dying to see how was Juliet and Emerson's relationship when they first got together. Also this book was dual POV so we get to go inside of Emerson's head and that was mega nice!
This book was everything that I expected it to be! We have the meeting, this time from Emerson's POV, and also sweet moments, sexy moments and the darkroom scene ;)
This book was short but it definitely had a whole bunch of sexy! The passion and connection between Juliet and Emerson is difficult to ignore. Melody Grace really knows how to write some great romance!
This one can be read as a stand-alone but I highly recommend you read not only this one but Unbroken also! They are amazing books!
Rating: 5 stars out 5!
Favorite Quotes:
"Yes, fate was real, and his name was Emerson Ray. He came crashing into me that summer, sending my plans scattering on the wind, and turning my whole world upside-down with just one wounded smile. I looked at him and knew, there would be nothing easy about our destiny; nothing simple about my surrender."
"All I wanted was her. Someone to look at me, and see past my bullshit. Someone to think I was worth a damn.
Juliet."
"I vow to myself, to never let him feel that way again. I can love him, and protect him from the pain. We can heal each other."
May 13, 2013
"Achingly romantic and intensely sexy, UNTOUCHED is as consuming as the mad, reckless love between Juliet and Emerson."
March 16, 2016
A little too Insta for my liking but well written. I'm holding out hope for the rest of the series ....
Want to read
April 15, 2020🎁 FREE on Amazon & on iBooks today (4/15/2020)! 🎁
May 14, 2013
FOR MORE REVIEWS LIKE THIS ONE, CHECK OUT MY BLOG ~ BLAME IT ON THE RAIN
I liked this book just as much as UNBROKEN, as we get to experience Juliet and Emerson’s first meeting from both points of view, and find out how it felt for both of them to fall in love over the summer!
There was a time I didn’t believe in fate
.…I didn’t realize: sometimes fate is the hardest choice of all.
It was so nice to finally get Emerson’s POV, and get an insight in to what he was thinking that first summer with Juliet as I felt I could finally understand some of the choices that he made which were mentioned in Unbroken. Although he meets her briefly after she almost runs him off the road, it’s not until Juliet helps him deal with his alcoholic mother and opens up to him about her dad that he really see’s that she’s different from the rest, and has a true understanding of the life he has, and the things he’s going through.
This is what I was made for, I think through the haze. This girl. These lips. This body.
Only her.
I found the situation with Juliet’s mother really heartbreaking, as you get to see those moments they spent together before she died. I hated the way she was treated by her husband and Juliet’s sister, and for Juliet have to just sit there and ignore the clear dysfunction that was going on in her family, it make me crazy as I could image how difficult it would be to live like that!
As everyone probably knows, I’m not a big fan of stories with love at first sight, however, with this one it kind of works, to a point. Although it is something that still doesn’t quite sit right with me in books, and even in this one a little bit, I can totally imagine being caught up in the summer, and in that moment with someone, when your both struggling in the other areas in your life, and feeling like just having the other person makes it better, and because of this, I felt it was believable.
All I wanted was her. Someone to look at me, and see past my bullshit. Someone to think I was worth a damn.
Juliet.
This story takes place over the period of just over two weeks, as Emerson and Juliet get to know each other, and experience new things together. Although I generally liked the pace of the story, I would have liked it to go a little bit further, featuring the moment when Juliet finds her mum, and the moment when Emerson breaks up with her. It would have been nice to get both their points of view at these moments, specifically Emerson’s as when the flashback in Unbroken tells you about the moment he ends it with her, I really hated him, so it would have been nice to know his real thoughts while he was breaking her heart.
This story was pretty short, with under 100 pages, however it made some of the characters actions in Unbroken much more understandable. I again loved the more poetic style that was in some of the writing, and because of this, really can’t wait to read more books by Melody Grace!
I liked this book just as much as UNBROKEN, as we get to experience Juliet and Emerson’s first meeting from both points of view, and find out how it felt for both of them to fall in love over the summer!
There was a time I didn’t believe in fate
.…I didn’t realize: sometimes fate is the hardest choice of all.
It was so nice to finally get Emerson’s POV, and get an insight in to what he was thinking that first summer with Juliet as I felt I could finally understand some of the choices that he made which were mentioned in Unbroken. Although he meets her briefly after she almost runs him off the road, it’s not until Juliet helps him deal with his alcoholic mother and opens up to him about her dad that he really see’s that she’s different from the rest, and has a true understanding of the life he has, and the things he’s going through.
This is what I was made for, I think through the haze. This girl. These lips. This body.
Only her.
I found the situation with Juliet’s mother really heartbreaking, as you get to see those moments they spent together before she died. I hated the way she was treated by her husband and Juliet’s sister, and for Juliet have to just sit there and ignore the clear dysfunction that was going on in her family, it make me crazy as I could image how difficult it would be to live like that!
As everyone probably knows, I’m not a big fan of stories with love at first sight, however, with this one it kind of works, to a point. Although it is something that still doesn’t quite sit right with me in books, and even in this one a little bit, I can totally imagine being caught up in the summer, and in that moment with someone, when your both struggling in the other areas in your life, and feeling like just having the other person makes it better, and because of this, I felt it was believable.
All I wanted was her. Someone to look at me, and see past my bullshit. Someone to think I was worth a damn.
Juliet.
This story takes place over the period of just over two weeks, as Emerson and Juliet get to know each other, and experience new things together. Although I generally liked the pace of the story, I would have liked it to go a little bit further, featuring the moment when Juliet finds her mum, and the moment when Emerson breaks up with her. It would have been nice to get both their points of view at these moments, specifically Emerson’s as when the flashback in Unbroken tells you about the moment he ends it with her, I really hated him, so it would have been nice to know his real thoughts while he was breaking her heart.
This story was pretty short, with under 100 pages, however it made some of the characters actions in Unbroken much more understandable. I again loved the more poetic style that was in some of the writing, and because of this, really can’t wait to read more books by Melody Grace!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
May 14, 2013
Thank you to the author for providing me with an eARC.
Just when I thought I could not love Emerson anymore, the amazing Melody gives us this novella, Untouched. If you’re like me and loved her debut novel Unbroken, you will just love Untouched. It gives us the POV from both Emerson and Juliet and how their love story began.
“But you have to decide: give yourself up and surrender to a force far greater than you will ever understand, or turn and walk away-live the rest of your days safe on dry land, knowing when it mattered most of all, you weren’t brave enough to risk it. You weren’t brave enough to love.”
I truly enjoyed getting to know how Emerson and Juliet met at Cedar Cove. The author truly has a gift with words. I felt the electricity coming off each the page that involved both of them in a scene.
Typically, I’m not drawn to novellas, however when I found out that we were going to get the back story on Emerson and Juliet, I was really excited. The novella can be read before or after Unbroken. It allowed the reader to understand the depth of the connection between Emerson and Juliet. I get why Emerson is Juliet’s hurricane. I get why she cannot just let go of this Summer romance. I love the fact that we get to see the moment that they laid their dark secrets to each other. Their secrets are what connects them. You get to see their love and passion for each other develop and grow. Can we have more Emerson? Please?!
I would recommend this novella to anyone that truly enjoyed Emerson and Juliet’s story. True love always wins. It always prevails.
Just when I thought I could not love Emerson anymore, the amazing Melody gives us this novella, Untouched. If you’re like me and loved her debut novel Unbroken, you will just love Untouched. It gives us the POV from both Emerson and Juliet and how their love story began.
“But you have to decide: give yourself up and surrender to a force far greater than you will ever understand, or turn and walk away-live the rest of your days safe on dry land, knowing when it mattered most of all, you weren’t brave enough to risk it. You weren’t brave enough to love.”
I truly enjoyed getting to know how Emerson and Juliet met at Cedar Cove. The author truly has a gift with words. I felt the electricity coming off each the page that involved both of them in a scene.
Typically, I’m not drawn to novellas, however when I found out that we were going to get the back story on Emerson and Juliet, I was really excited. The novella can be read before or after Unbroken. It allowed the reader to understand the depth of the connection between Emerson and Juliet. I get why Emerson is Juliet’s hurricane. I get why she cannot just let go of this Summer romance. I love the fact that we get to see the moment that they laid their dark secrets to each other. Their secrets are what connects them. You get to see their love and passion for each other develop and grow. Can we have more Emerson? Please?!
I would recommend this novella to anyone that truly enjoyed Emerson and Juliet’s story. True love always wins. It always prevails.
May 14, 2013
I liked the prequel but nowhere near as much as I liked Unbroken. I have been waiting to read about the summer Emerson and Juliet fell in love because of how much I liked Unbroken. Untouched is sweet and I still really enjoyed reading these two but it seems as if some parts fell flat. They really were not developed enough for me. The romance was a whirlwind, I realize, I just wish their summer could have been more detailed. I was expecting this explosive summer to happen to prove the soul wrenching love in Unbroken and I didn't feel that to a certain extent. Other parts were great though and knowing some of the things Juliet experienced with him in that summer shed a lot of light onto Unbroken. My favorite part of this prequel was seening the first time they met/saw each other from Emerson's POV and now knowing she had the same effect on him from the very beginning as he did on her. My favorite line of his is "... But even I know, Romeo was screwed from the first minute she walked into his life." The instant chemistry they felt and the electricity that ignites between them is great to read too. The author really does paint a vivid picture of how these two need each other in not so many words. So despite wishing there were more to it I still felt the connection these two had. I'm going to read Unbroken again now :)
November 19, 2013
A beautiful quick read. ヽ(^。^)ノ
This book can be read before or after Unbroken and it's worth it. You get to read about the freshness of their love blossoming and it's just too beautiful not to fall in love all over again.
This whole series pulls me to "The Notebook".
It's just so simple (and short lol) but the impact is just as powerful.
This book can be read before or after Unbroken and it's worth it. You get to read about the freshness of their love blossoming and it's just too beautiful not to fall in love all over again.
This whole series pulls me to "The Notebook".
It's just so simple (and short lol) but the impact is just as powerful.
May 18, 2013
This was a great prequel to Unbroken. I'm so happy we get to see how it all started between Juliet and Emerson and watch them fall in love.
August 14, 2020
This was my least favorite of this series so far…. I do not like Juliet she is just not nice. Their story isn’t something I would think would happen…...Emerson is again typical bad boy but for some reason Juliet is different. I am kinda glad that this book was only a Novella and only a little over 100 pages if not I probably would have stopped reading and I have never not finished a book I started. Juliet is just annoying. The way she treats some people is completely unacceptable and that is what really bothers me about this book.
September 28, 2020
This is a short novella which is a good thing.
I found the story unbelieveable and far fetched with the way the main characters threw themselves at each other from the very first meeting.
It just did not feel right to me with the characters feeling very shallow.
I found the story unbelieveable and far fetched with the way the main characters threw themselves at each other from the very first meeting.
It just did not feel right to me with the characters feeling very shallow.
May 16, 2013
I don't even know where to begin. It's been such a stressful week with the end of the school year and last night I decided I needed to sit down and read for just a little while. Naturally, Melody's novella was the perfect choice! I was worried at first because I hadn't read Unbroken, but then I saw this could be read as a stand-alone. I'm glad I read it first to be honest, because now I'm familiar and invested in the characters. And as always I love dual POV's. I think it brings so much more to the story to have two completely different point of views, especially from our leading male and female.
From the very first paragraph, I fell in love with Melody's writing. She has a beautiful way with words and I was completed enraptured. Her writing is mature and not once did I think to myself, "Wow, that was cheesy."
"Because that's the thing I didn't understand about fate: there's always a moment when you do have a choice. Standing there in the shallows, watching the wave roll in; feeling its power, knowing it might pull you under, but believing the water will carry your weight all the same."
We are introduced to Juliet first who, as we learn from the very first chapter, is wanting to start anew. She wants to be free of her past and is looking forward to a new beginning. She tells us how fate steps in- in the form of Emerson Ray and she wonders if she will be brave enough to accept that maybe this new twist of fate might be the one she needs. Or if it will be an epic disaster.
Oh, Emerson. What to say about him? At first glance, we don't get a very good impression of him. He wakes up next to a one-night stand, whose name he can't remember and a pounding hangover. However, he endears himself to me, as even though he's about to leave this girl with nothing- he feels guilty that he's used her. He is filled with self-loathing and doesn't see himself as having any worth or anything to offer a girl. You learn pretty early on that his family situation is less than ideal and is having to watch out for his younger siblings.
When these two meet- WHEW! Talk about some sexual tension! Despite the circumstances they meet under, both can't help but be attracted to the other. Juliet has such an innocence about her, yet she also has some family issues that have made her hard, so she is understanding once she finds out more about Emerson's home life.
As innocent as Juliet may be, she is certainly not shy. She is quite gutsy if you ask me. She doesn't hesitate in helping Emerson, even when he refuses it. Emerson might not realize it, but he craves stability. He is afraid to get in too deep with Juliet, knowing she is a 'summer girl', who will leave once the summer ends. With his tumultuous family life and always wondering when his mom is going to come home, I don't think he wants to be disappointed by another person in his life that he cares about.
However, I won't even lie, the last line of the novella broke my heart. I've read the synopsis for Unbroken so I knew what was to come, but still.
Overall, I loved this novella. I thought it was such a great, beautiful read about two people who, though they have a lot of baggage, still fall in love despite everything else the world throws at them.
From the very first paragraph, I fell in love with Melody's writing. She has a beautiful way with words and I was completed enraptured. Her writing is mature and not once did I think to myself, "Wow, that was cheesy."
"Because that's the thing I didn't understand about fate: there's always a moment when you do have a choice. Standing there in the shallows, watching the wave roll in; feeling its power, knowing it might pull you under, but believing the water will carry your weight all the same."
We are introduced to Juliet first who, as we learn from the very first chapter, is wanting to start anew. She wants to be free of her past and is looking forward to a new beginning. She tells us how fate steps in- in the form of Emerson Ray and she wonders if she will be brave enough to accept that maybe this new twist of fate might be the one she needs. Or if it will be an epic disaster.
Oh, Emerson. What to say about him? At first glance, we don't get a very good impression of him. He wakes up next to a one-night stand, whose name he can't remember and a pounding hangover. However, he endears himself to me, as even though he's about to leave this girl with nothing- he feels guilty that he's used her. He is filled with self-loathing and doesn't see himself as having any worth or anything to offer a girl. You learn pretty early on that his family situation is less than ideal and is having to watch out for his younger siblings.
When these two meet- WHEW! Talk about some sexual tension! Despite the circumstances they meet under, both can't help but be attracted to the other. Juliet has such an innocence about her, yet she also has some family issues that have made her hard, so she is understanding once she finds out more about Emerson's home life.
As innocent as Juliet may be, she is certainly not shy. She is quite gutsy if you ask me. She doesn't hesitate in helping Emerson, even when he refuses it. Emerson might not realize it, but he craves stability. He is afraid to get in too deep with Juliet, knowing she is a 'summer girl', who will leave once the summer ends. With his tumultuous family life and always wondering when his mom is going to come home, I don't think he wants to be disappointed by another person in his life that he cares about.
However, I won't even lie, the last line of the novella broke my heart. I've read the synopsis for Unbroken so I knew what was to come, but still.
Overall, I loved this novella. I thought it was such a great, beautiful read about two people who, though they have a lot of baggage, still fall in love despite everything else the world throws at them.
May 19, 2013
********ARC given in exchange for an honest review********
Like most people who read Unbroken, I wanted to know exactly what happened the Summer Emerson Ray and Juliet McKenzie fell irrevocably in love, and this prequel tells us exactly that.
Yes, fate was real, and his name was Emerson Ray. He came crashing into me that summer, sending my plans scattering on the wind, and turning my whole world upside-down with just one wounded smile. I looked at him and I knew, there would be nothing easy about our destiny; nothing simple about my surrender. The only question was, would I be brave enough to take that leap? -Juliet.
Unlike Unbroken, this book is written with both Emerson and Juliet's POV so we really got a feel for what it was like for both characters which I loved. I feel like we got to know Juliet well in book 1 so it was great to get in Emerson's head.
Juliet. It figures. The girl was trouble. I didn't pay too much attention in class, but even I know, Romeo was screwed from the first minute she walked into his life. - Emerson.
So here they are, back to that fateful Summer when they first met. Emerson doesn't have a great reputation with the locals of Cedar Cove. His dad left when he was little, his mum is an addict more focused on making sure she gets her next fix rather than making sure her kids are ok, leaving Emerson to care for his 2 younger siblings and work 3 jobs to keep a roof over their heads. He feels worthless and past saving until he meets Juliet. But she's only there for the Summer, and he worries how he will feel when she leaves because for the first time in his life, he's let someone in, and he's in deep.
When I'm touching her, it's the only time my life makes sense, but it's a false promise of a tomorrow I can never have. - Emerson.
They share a connection unlike any other they've ever known. They both know what it's like to live and deal with a Parent with an addiction, to feel damaged, at fault, and to lose hope of a better life. But their love for one another is visibly strong, you can almost feel the desire radiating off them when they are together, and they make each other feel complete, like nothing matters, and no-one can break them, as long as they have each other.
There's no thought or decision in my mind anymore, only warmth that floods my system, every cell in my body set alive, racing with pleasure, and desire, and something more: a bone deep rightness. - Juliet.
I didn't want to put it down and it can easily be read in one evening. My only negative? I would have liked there to have been the more emotional scenes, such as the death of Juliet's mother and the break up, but other than that I loved it. If you enjoyed Unbroken then you should definitely read Untouched and let Melody Grace take you on a beautiful, sexy journey to where it all began.
Like most people who read Unbroken, I wanted to know exactly what happened the Summer Emerson Ray and Juliet McKenzie fell irrevocably in love, and this prequel tells us exactly that.
Yes, fate was real, and his name was Emerson Ray. He came crashing into me that summer, sending my plans scattering on the wind, and turning my whole world upside-down with just one wounded smile. I looked at him and I knew, there would be nothing easy about our destiny; nothing simple about my surrender. The only question was, would I be brave enough to take that leap? -Juliet.
Unlike Unbroken, this book is written with both Emerson and Juliet's POV so we really got a feel for what it was like for both characters which I loved. I feel like we got to know Juliet well in book 1 so it was great to get in Emerson's head.
Juliet. It figures. The girl was trouble. I didn't pay too much attention in class, but even I know, Romeo was screwed from the first minute she walked into his life. - Emerson.
So here they are, back to that fateful Summer when they first met. Emerson doesn't have a great reputation with the locals of Cedar Cove. His dad left when he was little, his mum is an addict more focused on making sure she gets her next fix rather than making sure her kids are ok, leaving Emerson to care for his 2 younger siblings and work 3 jobs to keep a roof over their heads. He feels worthless and past saving until he meets Juliet. But she's only there for the Summer, and he worries how he will feel when she leaves because for the first time in his life, he's let someone in, and he's in deep.
When I'm touching her, it's the only time my life makes sense, but it's a false promise of a tomorrow I can never have. - Emerson.
They share a connection unlike any other they've ever known. They both know what it's like to live and deal with a Parent with an addiction, to feel damaged, at fault, and to lose hope of a better life. But their love for one another is visibly strong, you can almost feel the desire radiating off them when they are together, and they make each other feel complete, like nothing matters, and no-one can break them, as long as they have each other.
There's no thought or decision in my mind anymore, only warmth that floods my system, every cell in my body set alive, racing with pleasure, and desire, and something more: a bone deep rightness. - Juliet.
I didn't want to put it down and it can easily be read in one evening. My only negative? I would have liked there to have been the more emotional scenes, such as the death of Juliet's mother and the break up, but other than that I loved it. If you enjoyed Unbroken then you should definitely read Untouched and let Melody Grace take you on a beautiful, sexy journey to where it all began.
September 4, 2015
*3.5 Stars*
This was my introduction to Ms. Grace and although I had a few issues with the story, I'm eager to continue along the path with Juliet and Emerson.
Juliet is spending her last summer before college in Cedar Cove with her family. She has issues with her parents and is looking forward to starting fresh. Until she meets Emerson. He's the local bad boy an dhas family issues of his own. But these two have this magnetic pull on one another that can't be ignored.
I liked that both Juliet and Emerson had familial issues in common - something they could both relate to. They're both strong and mature for their age - they've had to be - because of the things they've dealt with. They handle things differently - cope in different ways - though. Juliet has plans for college while Emerson seems to think he should simply fulfill what the town says about him.
The story is told in dual POV - a format I've come to love. While I thought Juliet's inner monologue had a bent toward the melodramatic, as I talked it over with my older daughter, I remembered that Juliet is only 18 and teenagers do have a flair for the dramatic. In any case, what Juliet and Emerson felt for one another was felt intensely and Grace definitely conveyed that intensity. I do wish there'd been a little more backstory on Juliet's family issue because I think that would have better illustrated how what she'd been through helped her understand what Emerson was dealing with. Knowing everything Emerson was feeling and experiencing, both at home and with Juliet, gave the story more depth. Although, there were a few inconsistencies where his family was concerned.
Overall, I enjoyed this story. I found Juliet and Emerson's personal stories compelling and their relationship was as well. I am anxious to know what comes of their summer romance.
This was my introduction to Ms. Grace and although I had a few issues with the story, I'm eager to continue along the path with Juliet and Emerson.
Juliet is spending her last summer before college in Cedar Cove with her family. She has issues with her parents and is looking forward to starting fresh. Until she meets Emerson. He's the local bad boy an dhas family issues of his own. But these two have this magnetic pull on one another that can't be ignored.
I liked that both Juliet and Emerson had familial issues in common - something they could both relate to. They're both strong and mature for their age - they've had to be - because of the things they've dealt with. They handle things differently - cope in different ways - though. Juliet has plans for college while Emerson seems to think he should simply fulfill what the town says about him.
The story is told in dual POV - a format I've come to love. While I thought Juliet's inner monologue had a bent toward the melodramatic, as I talked it over with my older daughter, I remembered that Juliet is only 18 and teenagers do have a flair for the dramatic. In any case, what Juliet and Emerson felt for one another was felt intensely and Grace definitely conveyed that intensity. I do wish there'd been a little more backstory on Juliet's family issue because I think that would have better illustrated how what she'd been through helped her understand what Emerson was dealing with. Knowing everything Emerson was feeling and experiencing, both at home and with Juliet, gave the story more depth. Although, there were a few inconsistencies where his family was concerned.
Overall, I enjoyed this story. I found Juliet and Emerson's personal stories compelling and their relationship was as well. I am anxious to know what comes of their summer romance.
May 16, 2013
Yes, fate was real, and his name was Emerson Ray. He came crashing into me that summer, sending my plans scattering on the wind, and turning my whole world upside-down with just one wounded smile.
There's something about Cedar Cove that is so magical to me. With every word that Melody writes, I feel like I'm being transported to the town, seeing everything Juliet is seeing, touching everything that she's touching, and feeling everything she's feeling.
This is just one of those series that is special to me. I love the story and how it is written. I LOVE the characters and I am CONSUMED by their love story. Juliet and Emerson are made for each other
"Take me," I breathe as my mouth finds his. "I'm yours."
Untouched is a story of what happens when two soul mates meet. It's the story of how one person can change you completely. It's the story of finding home and hope in a person you love.
Emerson -
Juliet -
4 STEAMY STARS TO UNTOUCHED. I dare you to find a hotter book boyfriend than Emerson.
No, Emerson didn't just kiss me, he consumed me. He devoured me. And I couldn't get enough.
December 6, 2017
Decent story
Short, quick read. I was enjoying it until the ending came. It was very abrupt and I didn’t much care for that. It sort of ends on a happy ending but not really. You need to read the next book for more of their story and I didn’t realize that when I grabbed this book.
Short, quick read. I was enjoying it until the ending came. It was very abrupt and I didn’t much care for that. It sort of ends on a happy ending but not really. You need to read the next book for more of their story and I didn’t realize that when I grabbed this book.
June 5, 2013
I loved Unbroken, so when I saw that Melody Grace was giving readers the prequel to Emerson and Juliet’s story, I had to give it a read. I loved getting to know these two characters again, before their second-chance love story. It’s through this story that you get to really see how these two characters change each other and learn to open up and love one another. You get a better glimpse at what their lives were like, especially Emerson’s. The passion, love, and chemistry simply jumped out from the pages and I was really invested in these two as a couple.
I loved getting to know Emerson more in this novella and seeing just how messed up he and his family are. His relationship with Juliet progressed fast, but not in an unbelievable way, just in that swept-up romantic and passionate way. That “once in a lifetime love” kind of way. If you thought they were hot and sizzling in Unbroken, they’re that and so much more in Untouched.
The only real problem I had with this story? It was too short! I want more Emerson and Juliet!!! In Untouched, you don’t get the whole summer of their love story, just the beginning, which was such a bummer, but then again, I should’ve expected it since this is just a novella. Even though I knew what happened to them, what Emerson ultimately does in the end, I still wanted to see it all play out in the present tense. Either way, this was a great prequel to a great love story.
I loved getting to know Emerson more in this novella and seeing just how messed up he and his family are. His relationship with Juliet progressed fast, but not in an unbelievable way, just in that swept-up romantic and passionate way. That “once in a lifetime love” kind of way. If you thought they were hot and sizzling in Unbroken, they’re that and so much more in Untouched.
The only real problem I had with this story? It was too short! I want more Emerson and Juliet!!! In Untouched, you don’t get the whole summer of their love story, just the beginning, which was such a bummer, but then again, I should’ve expected it since this is just a novella. Even though I knew what happened to them, what Emerson ultimately does in the end, I still wanted to see it all play out in the present tense. Either way, this was a great prequel to a great love story.
May 19, 2013
When I first read Unbroken the only complaint I had was that there wasn't more of Emerson and Juliet when they meet and fell in love. Well, Melody did it. She gave us what we wanted and it was amazing. Untouched is a prequel novella to Unbroken and tell us the story about how Emerson and Juliet fell in love. I love that this book had a dual POV; it was a good thing to hear what Emerson was thinking. I had high expectations about this book and Melody meets them all. Untouched have everything romance, sweet moments and really hot moments. I was in love with Emerson but I fell in love with him even more with this book. We finally get to see the darkroom scene and let me tell you it was amazing and so hot. We get a glimpse of Emerson’s life when he met Juliet and we also see a little of Juliet’s mom and that was sweet. Juliet and Emerson share a connection like no other and their love story is so beautiful, sweet and pure. You can’t help but root for them and wish that they can get their happily ever after. I read this one in like six hours, I couldn't put it down. If you enjoyed Unbroken you should check out this one, you will love it.
June 13, 2013
I absolutely loved UNBROKEN when I read it not long ago. So when Grace asked me if I would be interested in reading/reviewing UNTOUCHED I, of course, jumped at the chance. The story is how Emerson and Juliet came to meet. We get to see how it all came to be for them and how they fell in love. It really is a sweet story and such a great short read.
The author states that this is a prequel to UNBROKEN. I for one am glad I read UNBROKEN first and then this one next. I loved knowing a little bit about them before I found out how they fell in love. So to me, I would suggest you read UNBROKEN first and then read UNTOUCHED. I think you will like it better that way. Another thing…yes the author also states that this can be read as a standalone. But trust me on this, you will most definitely want to read UNBROKEN. No ifs, ands, or buts about it. Yeah this story was good…but UNBROKEN was so much better…and hotter!
Pick up this quick read today if you are looking for a little more of Emerson and Juliet. You will be happy with the glimpse the author gives us on how it all started for them and how they fell so deep that summer.
The author states that this is a prequel to UNBROKEN. I for one am glad I read UNBROKEN first and then this one next. I loved knowing a little bit about them before I found out how they fell in love. So to me, I would suggest you read UNBROKEN first and then read UNTOUCHED. I think you will like it better that way. Another thing…yes the author also states that this can be read as a standalone. But trust me on this, you will most definitely want to read UNBROKEN. No ifs, ands, or buts about it. Yeah this story was good…but UNBROKEN was so much better…and hotter!
Pick up this quick read today if you are looking for a little more of Emerson and Juliet. You will be happy with the glimpse the author gives us on how it all started for them and how they fell so deep that summer.
May 20, 2013
For fan's of Unbronken who needed more Emerson and Juliet, finally got their wish.
In Untouched a novella, we get to see how Juliet and Emerson's love story begin. I loved finally seeing how their relationship blossomed from their first look, to reading about both their insecurites. Unlike Unbroken, Untouched let's us see both Juliet and Emerson's perspective, and with that we learn so much more about them, especially Emerson. I wished it was longer, it cuts off right when you get invested into it and wanting more. Hopefully we will get to read more, then just their first couple of weeks together. I want to know how it all played out with Emerson and Julies mother...and I know others do too.
READ UNBROKEN BEFORE UNTOUCHED!!!
In Untouched a novella, we get to see how Juliet and Emerson's love story begin. I loved finally seeing how their relationship blossomed from their first look, to reading about both their insecurites. Unlike Unbroken, Untouched let's us see both Juliet and Emerson's perspective, and with that we learn so much more about them, especially Emerson. I wished it was longer, it cuts off right when you get invested into it and wanting more. Hopefully we will get to read more, then just their first couple of weeks together. I want to know how it all played out with Emerson and Julies mother...and I know others do too.
READ UNBROKEN BEFORE UNTOUCHED!!!
June 11, 2014
This book was achingly sweet. A young girl with family issues meets a young boy with SERIOUS family issues believe that love can overcome anything and even though shes only there for the sumer they can figure it out. This is a prequel to the first book and the author included the first chapter of the book unbroken so now we see the sweet amazing summer love that happened and in that first paragraph we know that it wasnt all sunshines and flowers and something very serious and very bad must of happened between emerson and her...I think the inclusion of Chapter 1 made this a 4 star review as opposed to the 3 star... I understand everyone wants happily ever after but life isnt always liek that . This sounds like it will make a great series
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