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Lotus
"All these years, I've never given my heart to anyone… The truth is, I didn't have a heart to give. My heart was with a ghost."
To the rest of the world, he was the little boy who went missing on the Fourth of July. But to Sydney Neville, he was everything. Her heart hasn't been the same since her best friend disappeared, but she's learned to build her life around that missing piece.
Twenty-two years later, the last thing Sydney expects is for Oliver Lynch to return. Having been captive underground for decades, he's unfamiliar with the strange new world that awaits him―but he's alive. He's here. And no matter how he's changed, he and Sydney both still feel the connection that runs between them.
But as their reborn friendship begins to feel like something more, Sydney and Oliver realize there are still jagged, painful truths creating space between them. The walls Sydney's built don't want to come down, and as Oliver hunts for his missing memories and lost time, he realizes his nightmare is not yet over.
With nothing as it seems, is there space for love to bloom in this dark place?
To the rest of the world, he was the little boy who went missing on the Fourth of July. But to Sydney Neville, he was everything. Her heart hasn't been the same since her best friend disappeared, but she's learned to build her life around that missing piece.
Twenty-two years later, the last thing Sydney expects is for Oliver Lynch to return. Having been captive underground for decades, he's unfamiliar with the strange new world that awaits him―but he's alive. He's here. And no matter how he's changed, he and Sydney both still feel the connection that runs between them.
But as their reborn friendship begins to feel like something more, Sydney and Oliver realize there are still jagged, painful truths creating space between them. The walls Sydney's built don't want to come down, and as Oliver hunts for his missing memories and lost time, he realizes his nightmare is not yet over.
With nothing as it seems, is there space for love to bloom in this dark place?
344 pages, Kindle Edition
First published April 20, 2021
8021 people are currently reading
105529 people want to read
About the author
Jennifer Hartmann
33 books15.1k followersJennifer Hartmann resides in northern Illinois with her own personal romance hero and three children. When she is not writing angsty love stories, she is likely pondering all the ways she can break your heart and piece it back together again. She enjoys sunsets (because mornings are hard), bike riding, traveling, bingeing Buffy the Vampire Slayer reruns, and that time of day when coffee gets replaced by wine. She loves tacos. She also really, really wants to pet your dog.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 8,799 reviews
September 21, 2023
edit: changing this to 1 star bc maya reminded me it honestly doesn’t deserve the extra star!
—
2 stars is even generous.look at me practicing the act of kindness.
you know its going bad when you start shipping the mmc with the ow 💀
this had all the components of a good story: childhood friends to lovers, slow burn, will they won't they, mystery, traumatic past
oh but the execution? terrible!
this might be mean but it's givingggg story i would've written in high school for my english class. totally underdeveloped, had zero connection with the characters, amateur writing. sorrybut not sorry
the only part of the book i liked is oliver. this man was so endearing and unintentionally funny. he was missing for 22 years, found and then pretty much has to get used to the world we live in after being held captive. i enjoyed those moments when he would hear and learn things for the first time. he thought amazon products came from the amazon lmaooo the scream i let out 😭 he would always call his phone his "cellular device" and call texting "electronic messaging" pls how can you hate that man i dont think its possible.
the "big reveal" at the end was dumb lmao. not the author being so proud of her husband coming up with it kjbdkcjbsdkjgsa bye i was so unimpressed.
ok rant time (there will def be some spoilers in here but guys pls don't waste your time reading this dumpster fire of a book i promise theres so much better!!) oh look another act of kindness ☺️
I THOUGHT I WAS GONNA LOVE THIS BOOK BC IT HAD ME CRYING IN CHAPTER ONE. WE STARTED OFF SO GOOD. like idek these characters and im already crying?? impossible! but then it only went downhill from there and my temporary period of insanity passed, bc thats the only thing that would explain me crying. i didnt shed a single tear afterwards. bc i could not find a single bone in my body that cared about these characters or their storyline. even oliver was doing nothing for me after 2/3 of the book. he couldn't even carry me all the way.
lets talk about sydney! i met her so that you don’t have to! i've never read a worse fmc. she was literally so annoying the whole way through. awful, selfish character. no redeemable qualities. and she was cringey too on top of all that.
so oliver has literally been held captive all these years and she makes him do ALL THE WORK IN THE RELATIONSHIP. she gives him mixed signals the whole time, she has all the emotional baggage (his is irrelevant), and she has him chasing her. how does this make sense? is this not the craziest thing you ever heard? w i l d. i was stunned to say the least. he literally puts all the work in while she runs away from him because she's "scared of commitment" 😃 BYE
NOT ONLY is she the reason for all this back and forth bullshit, but she acts like she's the victim in this story. lemme just put a couple excerpts:
number one:
help?? he literally got abducted when he was 7 by a stranger and lied to for 22 years. what are you saying rn?? the way i reread this a couple times bc i thought i must not be reading this correctly. she's so insensitive and out of touch with reality its ridiculous.
number 2:
the RAGE i felt at this right here. DO YOU THINK HE CHOSEEE TO LEAVE?! i wanted to literally yank her by her hair and smack her. if someone said this to me after i was kidnapped and locked up from the age of 7 to 30, i could simply not be blamed for my actions afterwards! girl have some shame. use your brain pls. she gave me a migraine.
and she's also just straight up stupid. she has an intruder break into her house and attack her, and she claims she's so scared and always feels like he's still there hiding, and yet she continues to leave her front door unlocked everyday afterwards... and no one says "oh hey syd maybe you should try idk locking your doors??" they all just be walking into her house without knocking even after the incident. tf is this?
OK ONE MORE ONE MORE bc she's so dumb. so he has no memories before being abducted, and she goes "I make a mental note to ask Oliver if he remembers what that secret was." girl he doesn't even remember his own mother and you wanna ask him about a secret he told your teddy bear 22 years ago?! this stupid irrelevant secret gets mentioned like 4 times! bruh
maybe i would've enjoyed the whole back and forth (prob not) if i at least felt chemistry between the two mcs but there was just...nothing there? from the beginning there was not a single spark. whenever they would talk about their connection being magnetic i found myself asking whether the connection was in the room with us. babes idk what to tell you, its just not there.
it was also just so unrealistic that he didnt really have psychological issues. there wasnt a good representation of the trauma you would think he would have. he just didnt like people touching him or being around lots of people for a total of 2 chapters. lmao.
and you wanna know what everyone in the book tells him he needs IMMEDIATELY after he's back? if you were to say therapy you would be incorrect. nope because that would be the logical thing everyone would be encouraging someone to do after such a traumatic experience! what they DO want him to do however, is have sex. no words. i personally actually think seeing a psychologist would be a great idea! he should have professionals help him process what he's been through and help him adjust, not find a girl to lose his virginity to. but what do i know
ANYWHOOO thanks cara for reading this with me! 💗 im so sorry we didnt have a better book 😭
^ best line
—
Losing my buddy read virginity to no one other than the BR queen herself Cara 💗💗
—
2 stars is even generous.
you know its going bad when you start shipping the mmc with the ow 💀
this had all the components of a good story: childhood friends to lovers, slow burn, will they won't they, mystery, traumatic past
oh but the execution? terrible!
this might be mean but it's givingggg story i would've written in high school for my english class. totally underdeveloped, had zero connection with the characters, amateur writing. sorry
the only part of the book i liked is oliver. this man was so endearing and unintentionally funny. he was missing for 22 years, found and then pretty much has to get used to the world we live in after being held captive. i enjoyed those moments when he would hear and learn things for the first time. he thought amazon products came from the amazon lmaooo the scream i let out 😭 he would always call his phone his "cellular device" and call texting "electronic messaging" pls how can you hate that man i dont think its possible.
the "big reveal" at the end was dumb lmao. not the author being so proud of her husband coming up with it kjbdkcjbsdkjgsa bye i was so unimpressed.
ok rant time (there will def be some spoilers in here but guys pls don't waste your time reading this dumpster fire of a book i promise theres so much better!!) oh look another act of kindness ☺️
I THOUGHT I WAS GONNA LOVE THIS BOOK BC IT HAD ME CRYING IN CHAPTER ONE. WE STARTED OFF SO GOOD. like idek these characters and im already crying?? impossible! but then it only went downhill from there and my temporary period of insanity passed, bc thats the only thing that would explain me crying. i didnt shed a single tear afterwards. bc i could not find a single bone in my body that cared about these characters or their storyline. even oliver was doing nothing for me after 2/3 of the book. he couldn't even carry me all the way.
lets talk about sydney! i met her so that you don’t have to! i've never read a worse fmc. she was literally so annoying the whole way through. awful, selfish character. no redeemable qualities. and she was cringey too on top of all that.
so oliver has literally been held captive all these years and she makes him do ALL THE WORK IN THE RELATIONSHIP. she gives him mixed signals the whole time, she has all the emotional baggage (his is irrelevant), and she has him chasing her. how does this make sense? is this not the craziest thing you ever heard? w i l d. i was stunned to say the least. he literally puts all the work in while she runs away from him because she's "scared of commitment" 😃 BYE
NOT ONLY is she the reason for all this back and forth bullshit, but she acts like she's the victim in this story. lemme just put a couple excerpts:
number one:
"The truth is, sometimes I'm envious of you, Oliver. People haven't desensitized you. Relationships haven't broken you. Society hasn't poisoned you."
help?? he literally got abducted when he was 7 by a stranger and lied to for 22 years. what are you saying rn?? the way i reread this a couple times bc i thought i must not be reading this correctly. she's so insensitive and out of touch with reality its ridiculous.
number 2:
"God, who hurt you, Sydney?"
"You did! Something inside of me fucking died the day I lost you!"
the RAGE i felt at this right here. DO YOU THINK HE CHOSEEE TO LEAVE?! i wanted to literally yank her by her hair and smack her. if someone said this to me after i was kidnapped and locked up from the age of 7 to 30, i could simply not be blamed for my actions afterwards! girl have some shame. use your brain pls. she gave me a migraine.
and she's also just straight up stupid. she has an intruder break into her house and attack her, and she claims she's so scared and always feels like he's still there hiding, and yet she continues to leave her front door unlocked everyday afterwards... and no one says "oh hey syd maybe you should try idk locking your doors??" they all just be walking into her house without knocking even after the incident. tf is this?
OK ONE MORE ONE MORE bc she's so dumb. so he has no memories before being abducted, and she goes "I make a mental note to ask Oliver if he remembers what that secret was." girl he doesn't even remember his own mother and you wanna ask him about a secret he told your teddy bear 22 years ago?! this stupid irrelevant secret gets mentioned like 4 times! bruh
maybe i would've enjoyed the whole back and forth (prob not) if i at least felt chemistry between the two mcs but there was just...nothing there? from the beginning there was not a single spark. whenever they would talk about their connection being magnetic i found myself asking whether the connection was in the room with us. babes idk what to tell you, its just not there.
it was also just so unrealistic that he didnt really have psychological issues. there wasnt a good representation of the trauma you would think he would have. he just didnt like people touching him or being around lots of people for a total of 2 chapters. lmao.
and you wanna know what everyone in the book tells him he needs IMMEDIATELY after he's back? if you were to say therapy you would be incorrect. nope because that would be the logical thing everyone would be encouraging someone to do after such a traumatic experience! what they DO want him to do however, is have sex. no words. i personally actually think seeing a psychologist would be a great idea! he should have professionals help him process what he's been through and help him adjust, not find a girl to lose his virginity to. but what do i know
ANYWHOOO thanks cara for reading this with me! 💗 im so sorry we didnt have a better book 😭
”You’re the sweetest man. I don’t deserve you.”
^ best line
—
Losing my buddy read virginity to no one other than the BR queen herself Cara 💗💗
September 17, 2024
ARE YOU KIDDING??? i’m in love. this story was beautiful, and SO UNIQUE! I’m not gonna lie, after ‘still beating’ I had high expectations.. and this did NOT LET ME DOWNNNN!! Childhood friends to lovers remains superior!!!!! Oliver had me so emotional this entire book, he was the perfect mix of sweet / romantic & innocent but yet spicy when needed. Sydney was an angel, and I adored everything about her. AND THE SIDE CHARACTERS IN THIS??? i’m obsessed. There was not a single moment where I wanted to put this book down & the plot twists had me by MY NECKKKK. This is one of those UNFORGETTABLE stories yall.. Jennifer Hartman does it again!
i’m gonna need a gabe & tabitha story immediately pls & thank you.
also getting to see hear about my babies Dean & Cora made me giddy!
“The Lotus will bloom into the most magnificent flower, even when its roots are in the murkiest of waters.”
i’m gonna need a gabe & tabitha story immediately pls & thank you.
also getting to see hear about my babies Dean & Cora made me giddy!
“The Lotus will bloom into the most magnificent flower, even when its roots are in the murkiest of waters.”
June 19, 2021
5 "Wishing" Stars!
... The lotus chronicles.
I started this book while on the road from Trondheim to Bodø. I was supposed to spend those hours taking a nap because I had to drive the next hours. But fuck all of it because I needed Oliver's story after I finished the other epic one by the same author, Still Beating. I have visited Bodø a lot of times. That city in Northern Norway—that not a single tourist I've met spoke about—never fails to knock me off of my feet every time. Like Lotus. This book that amazed me, captivated me, and proved to me how beautiful it was must be also discovered by many.
Note: This is a friends to lovers romance.
Oliver had escaped captivity after being locked up for almost 22 years. Sydney was stunned beyond belief hearing this news. Inseparable since kids, these two characters should learn to navigate the new world they were living in, together. Sydney and her past world. A world with her long lost best friend on her side. And Oliver and his strange world. Rediscovering himself and the actual world he never knew.
I simply loved this book. The promise of the story lured me wide-awake most of the ride that ended up me like a zombie trekking the mountains the day after. The romance gripped me. The suspense hooked me. The twists and turns stunned me the same way every time I visit the maelstroms of Saltstraumen. And Oliver and Sydney as individuals inspirited me. They were truly a moving portrayal of never ending love and hope. Striving to reach the end of the tunnel with undying love as armors in the most toughest situations. Oliver was an extremely vulnerable character, with childlike innocence, and possessing true heroic characteristics that I found endearing.
Overall, I extremely loved the book. Another book by this author that I added as favourites. Immersive writing, utterly consuming storytelling with riveting storyline, uplifting romance, beautifully devastating characters, and most importantly, available on Kindle Unlimited. This is a true inspirational love story and so much more. This is a true inspirational love story, Jennifer Hartmann's unique version. A story that distinguishes fake from genuine human emotions in the midst of tragedy.
I recommend this to those who likes: Jennifer Hartmann, friends to lovers, captive, dark, romantic suspense, emotional read, and a happily ever after.
I highlighted almost half of the book. And I love to share some of my favourite lines. So, if you are in the mood to read, here are a few:
Trigger Warning: Vivid depiction of sexual assault.
... The lotus chronicles.
I started this book while on the road from Trondheim to Bodø. I was supposed to spend those hours taking a nap because I had to drive the next hours. But fuck all of it because I needed Oliver's story after I finished the other epic one by the same author, Still Beating. I have visited Bodø a lot of times. That city in Northern Norway—that not a single tourist I've met spoke about—never fails to knock me off of my feet every time. Like Lotus. This book that amazed me, captivated me, and proved to me how beautiful it was must be also discovered by many.
Note: This is a friends to lovers romance.
"...We’re a fucked-up, complicated species prone to self-sabotage, baseless insecurities, and the notion that there’s always something better around the corner. We’re constantly chasing imaginary destinations, thinking we’re missing out, wanting more. We’re never truly present.”
Oliver had escaped captivity after being locked up for almost 22 years. Sydney was stunned beyond belief hearing this news. Inseparable since kids, these two characters should learn to navigate the new world they were living in, together. Sydney and her past world. A world with her long lost best friend on her side. And Oliver and his strange world. Rediscovering himself and the actual world he never knew.
I simply loved this book. The promise of the story lured me wide-awake most of the ride that ended up me like a zombie trekking the mountains the day after. The romance gripped me. The suspense hooked me. The twists and turns stunned me the same way every time I visit the maelstroms of Saltstraumen. And Oliver and Sydney as individuals inspirited me. They were truly a moving portrayal of never ending love and hope. Striving to reach the end of the tunnel with undying love as armors in the most toughest situations. Oliver was an extremely vulnerable character, with childlike innocence, and possessing true heroic characteristics that I found endearing.
"The sensation of another human being so intimately entwined—the palpable connection, thick and heady. It’s more than physical. It’s more than surface-deep. It’s unparalleled."
Overall, I extremely loved the book. Another book by this author that I added as favourites. Immersive writing, utterly consuming storytelling with riveting storyline, uplifting romance, beautifully devastating characters, and most importantly, available on Kindle Unlimited. This is a true inspirational love story and so much more. This is a true inspirational love story, Jennifer Hartmann's unique version. A story that distinguishes fake from genuine human emotions in the midst of tragedy.
I recommend this to those who likes: Jennifer Hartmann, friends to lovers, captive, dark, romantic suspense, emotional read, and a happily ever after.
"I close my eyes and make a wish. I wish on fireworks, on every shooting star, on birthday candles and dandelion seeds. I wish to the man in the sky with all my heart, with each tumbling tear ... I wish for tomorrow and the tomorrow after that. I wish for all the tomorrows ... with her."
I highlighted almost half of the book. And I love to share some of my favourite lines. So, if you are in the mood to read, here are a few:
"She is, by far, the most perplexing, endearing, complicated, beautiful, and charming human I’ve come across so far."
"Taking a seat along the side of the bed, I fold my hands in my lap and wait, glancing absently around the room. My eyes land on her bedside table, distracted for a moment by the hypnotizing lava lamp, then shift to a novel with a bookmark peeking out halfway through. There’s an oddly shaped device sitting atop the book that has me furrowing my brows with curiosity. That curiosity gets the better of me, and I reach for the object, studying it with a mix of intrigue and bewilderment. My thumb hits a button and the contraption bursts to life, buzzing and vibrating in my hands. I let go, startled, and it clatters to her hardwood floor, causing a ruckus. It must be some kind of electronic massager. Fascinating."
“It’s important to have people in our corner, rooting for our successes, ... And sometimes we need to be our own cheerleaders.”
My eyes case her thoughtful expression. “How so?”
“We need to fight for what’s in our hearts. No one else can do that for us,” she tells me pointedly. “And if there is anything on this earth worth fighting for, it’s love.”
"I love her, so entirely, so painfully ... She is my favorite part of me."
“It’s hard to break someone who has already experienced the worst out of life."
Trigger Warning: Vivid depiction of sexual assault.
April 8, 2022
3 - 3.5 Stars
***PLEASE READ: Not to be snarky, but kinda irritated...Before starting this book, I inadvertently scrolled past a review that had the meaning behind "lotus" spelled out in the first line of the review. I didn't think much of it at the time, but when it became clear while reading that the meaning was supposed to have been a mystery that spanned the whole book, I got kind of mad about it. I think it spoiled what would have been a really impactful moment in the book for me and I think it had an effect on my end rating. So just a friendly reminder to us all to spoiler tag/mark/warn. Please.
Moving on....
I didn't LOVE this the same way that I loved THIS Hartmann gem, but that's ok. I still enjoyed it.
I liked most of the characters (especially Oliver, obviously), but I didn't love Sydney. I didn't actively dislike her by any means...she just felt a little too Manic Pixie Dream Girl-esque for my preference. But that's on me.
Otherwise, I enjoyed this on the whole. I can definitely see myself re-reading this in the future and potentially upgrading my rating. After all, reading this on the heels of Still Beating was probably an unfairly tall order for any book.
***PLEASE READ: Not to be snarky, but kinda irritated...Before starting this book, I inadvertently scrolled past a review that had the meaning behind "lotus" spelled out in the first line of the review. I didn't think much of it at the time, but when it became clear while reading that the meaning was supposed to have been a mystery that spanned the whole book, I got kind of mad about it. I think it spoiled what would have been a really impactful moment in the book for me and I think it had an effect on my end rating. So just a friendly reminder to us all to spoiler tag/mark/warn. Please.
Moving on....
I didn't LOVE this the same way that I loved THIS Hartmann gem, but that's ok. I still enjoyed it.
I liked most of the characters (especially Oliver, obviously), but I didn't love Sydney. I didn't actively dislike her by any means...she just felt a little too Manic Pixie Dream Girl-esque for my preference. But that's on me.
Otherwise, I enjoyed this on the whole. I can definitely see myself re-reading this in the future and potentially upgrading my rating. After all, reading this on the heels of Still Beating was probably an unfairly tall order for any book.
September 30, 2022
“I loved you then, I love you now, and I’ll love you until my dying day.”
OLIVER LYNCH CARRIED THIS BOOK FOR ME.
“I’m right here, with you, and I’m still holding onto your heart. Please don’t ask me to give it back.”
This book. This man. I was hooked. Ngl the story reminded me so much of Archer's Voice- it made me want to reread that one. ALSO LMAOO I CAN'T BELIEVE THE GUYS I CUSSED A LOT IN BOTH BOOKS ARE NAMED TRAVIS.
I loved, loved, loved this book and Oliver has my whole heart that cutie is so precious I'm kinda jealous of Sydney.
She is my favorite part of me.
IM DED.
Though I can't forget Gabe. Gabe is important. Gabe is very important.
OLIVER LYNCH CARRIED THIS BOOK FOR ME.
“I’m right here, with you, and I’m still holding onto your heart. Please don’t ask me to give it back.”
This book. This man. I was hooked. Ngl the story reminded me so much of Archer's Voice- it made me want to reread that one. ALSO LMAOO I CAN'T BELIEVE THE GUYS I CUSSED A LOT IN BOTH BOOKS ARE NAMED TRAVIS.
I loved, loved, loved this book and Oliver has my whole heart that cutie is so precious I'm kinda jealous of Sydney.
She is my favorite part of me.
IM DED.
Though I can't forget Gabe. Gabe is important. Gabe is very important.
May 9, 2021
I'm clearly in the minority here but I was bored with this book. Oliver just reminded me of a robot that started developing human feelings. I could not connect with this at all.
February 13, 2023
I really enjoyed Oliver and his storyline. I thought that the whole idea behind his kidnapping was really unique and different and I was definitely surprised when everything finally came together at the end.
What I didn’t like was that the majority of this book ended up heavily focusing on his and Sydney’s sexual relationship as opposed to diving deep into what someone in his situations would be going through and feeling after everything he’s been through.
I feel like we got the bare minimum of getting to see him reacclimate himself into society as well as the backstory of what actually happened to him all those years that he was gone - and instead we focused on the fact that he’s a 30 year old virgin and is experiencing all of thoseee type of things for the first time…. which I think is definitely important considering this is a romance book, but I wanted to see a bit more of everything else as well and I felt like it was too much of all of that, and not enough of the latter.
I was also not a fan of Sydney - I think she was a cookie cutter character that didn’t bring anything special to the story… Oliver was so amazing and unique and she was not only a forgettable character, but actually annoyed me many times throughout the book - she really ended up bringing my enjoyment for the story down because the majority of my issues stemmed from her actions.
She always had a sexual edge in every thought and conversation she had with and about Oliver - she brought unnecessary drama and jealousy to their situation, she was too push and pull with him which is the opposite of what someone like him needed in those moments, she always overreacted, talked before thinking things through and just made everything more dramatic than it had to be.
Furthermore, a lot of things felt unnecessary to me even if some of it came full circle by the end. She randomly mentions that she had a stalker right at the beginning of the book but we never got more details other than that one mention of it, then she gets attacked and it felt like it was totally just brushed off and felt super random up until the very end of the story… so even though it came full circle, it felt too random in the moment and threw me off while I reading the rest of it. I also thought that all of the side drama with his brother and her sister was unnecessary.
Additionally, I didn’t like how every single character was focused on sex instead of dealing with this life altering development that is the basis of why they all are the way they are today. I feel like all of the deep stuff was completely brushed over and it made the entire book feel really superficial —- His brother constantly telling him he’s gotta get laid, her sister telling her to bang Oliver, her sister sleeping with his brother and then later his brother getting with someone else — even the fact that Sydney and Gabe had hooked up at one point… there was just too much unnecessary drama and information.
But what saved the story for me was Oliver - I really liked him and I enjoyed following his story even though I wish we got to see a bit more of the moments and internal thoughts that ended up happening off page — I also enjoyed the ending when everything finally came full circle and finally some of the randomness didn’t feel as random anymore, as well as getting some satisfying answers to some of the questions I had throughout the book.
So overall - I think this was a great premise for a story and it didn’t completely flop in my eyes, but I think it focused on the wrong things and could have been a much more memorable and hard hitting story if it pivoted away from the physical attraction between the two of them and instead focused slightly more on the fact that he was kidnapped for 22 years and somehow survived. We got the bare minimum, but with a story like this… I wanted more than that.
What I didn’t like was that the majority of this book ended up heavily focusing on his and Sydney’s sexual relationship as opposed to diving deep into what someone in his situations would be going through and feeling after everything he’s been through.
I feel like we got the bare minimum of getting to see him reacclimate himself into society as well as the backstory of what actually happened to him all those years that he was gone - and instead we focused on the fact that he’s a 30 year old virgin and is experiencing all of thoseee type of things for the first time…. which I think is definitely important considering this is a romance book, but I wanted to see a bit more of everything else as well and I felt like it was too much of all of that, and not enough of the latter.
I was also not a fan of Sydney - I think she was a cookie cutter character that didn’t bring anything special to the story… Oliver was so amazing and unique and she was not only a forgettable character, but actually annoyed me many times throughout the book - she really ended up bringing my enjoyment for the story down because the majority of my issues stemmed from her actions.
She always had a sexual edge in every thought and conversation she had with and about Oliver - she brought unnecessary drama and jealousy to their situation, she was too push and pull with him which is the opposite of what someone like him needed in those moments, she always overreacted, talked before thinking things through and just made everything more dramatic than it had to be.
Furthermore, a lot of things felt unnecessary to me even if some of it came full circle by the end. She randomly mentions that she had a stalker right at the beginning of the book but we never got more details other than that one mention of it, then she gets attacked and it felt like it was totally just brushed off and felt super random up until the very end of the story… so even though it came full circle, it felt too random in the moment and threw me off while I reading the rest of it. I also thought that all of the side drama with his brother and her sister was unnecessary.
Additionally, I didn’t like how every single character was focused on sex instead of dealing with this life altering development that is the basis of why they all are the way they are today. I feel like all of the deep stuff was completely brushed over and it made the entire book feel really superficial —- His brother constantly telling him he’s gotta get laid, her sister telling her to bang Oliver, her sister sleeping with his brother and then later his brother getting with someone else — even the fact that Sydney and Gabe had hooked up at one point… there was just too much unnecessary drama and information.
But what saved the story for me was Oliver - I really liked him and I enjoyed following his story even though I wish we got to see a bit more of the moments and internal thoughts that ended up happening off page — I also enjoyed the ending when everything finally came full circle and finally some of the randomness didn’t feel as random anymore, as well as getting some satisfying answers to some of the questions I had throughout the book.
So overall - I think this was a great premise for a story and it didn’t completely flop in my eyes, but I think it focused on the wrong things and could have been a much more memorable and hard hitting story if it pivoted away from the physical attraction between the two of them and instead focused slightly more on the fact that he was kidnapped for 22 years and somehow survived. We got the bare minimum, but with a story like this… I wanted more than that.
September 2, 2025
ˏˋ°•*⁀➷ 1.75/5
I fear that this rating is going to be the start of dawn's villain arc. 🤧
Ok, so let me start by saying that it's not terrible, but I do have to say that this is low-key mislabeled as second chance. Does this mean I am losing my touch with second chance romances?!?! I'm going to be distressed....bookish bhagavan, agar aap sun rahe ho, bhai please ek second chance wali romance bhej do, jo main pyaar karungi!! 🙏
‼️ There may be spoilers (this is the only warning) ‼️
Sydney Neville. No, just no for her. She was so annoying and she literally acted like her feelings were more important than Oliver, who mind you, was the one that was kidnapped. She literally wanted validation for the fact that she felt abandoned by him, but he didn't really have a choice.
What, and I mean this in the most genuine way possible, was he supposed to do? Not get kidnapped?
Three conversations that made me severely dislike this woman:
Convo #1:
Convo #2:
Convo #3:
Is this bitch on crack? There is no way someone fully conscious would say that to someone who got kidnapped at 7 for 22 years. She is literally insinuating that she went through so much more than he did. I'm not saying that she isn't allowed to feel like that, but the fact that she acts so entitled during those conversations is what makes me mad. She pissed me off so bad that I want to literally smack her.
Oliver Lynch. He was the only character I liked, though he speaks like a British Aristocrat. I think there were some discrepancies in how he was detached from society, yet also still knew vital information. He was so cute though and I feel so bad for him. How HE has feelings for Sydney is the biggest suspense.
The plot. It was interesting at the start, but it didn't hold me throughout. The fact that the plot twist was predictable was one thing, but the romance was also a miss for me. The redeeming part of this had to be that it was easy to read. It was short enough that I read it in one sitting.
I think I had an issue with the pacing. Some of the plot moved kind of fast and then it didn't move fast enough, so it was a constant limbo between the two.
There was a lot of information just thrown out there. While it's not a virtually bad thing, it was just excessive, you know? If it doesn't contribute to the plot in some way, it's just there to confuse me. Struggles of having a terrible memory.
Hello, what?!?! This girl is saying that about someone who was kidnapped and she's acting like he was away on vacation. Girl, what is wrong with you?!?!
The plot twist. It was predictable. I saw it from the very first appearance of Travis that he was the person behind the whole thing. I mean, I wasn't expecting someone completely random to be the person behind the whole thing, but I also wasn't expecting it to be so obvious. His presence just gave off those vibes and the ending where the whole plot twist happened basically was everything that I had thought of.
The romance. I have to say that the romance was basically non-existent. They lusted over each other and then somehow fell in love. I don't think this book is second chance because they were children when he got taken away and they didn't really have feelings for each other. Usually second chance means that they were in a relationship or they had feelings for each other to some capacity, but this just didn't give off the same vibes.
Overall, this might have been a miss for me.
-------
pre-read: just a little message for this book, my bestie dawn says she's going to be a villain on my behalf if you don't work out.
I fear that this rating is going to be the start of dawn's villain arc. 🤧
Ok, so let me start by saying that it's not terrible, but I do have to say that this is low-key mislabeled as second chance. Does this mean I am losing my touch with second chance romances?!?! I'm going to be distressed....bookish bhagavan, agar aap sun rahe ho, bhai please ek second chance wali romance bhej do, jo main pyaar karungi!! 🙏
‼️ There may be spoilers (this is the only warning) ‼️
Sydney Neville. No, just no for her. She was so annoying and she literally acted like her feelings were more important than Oliver, who mind you, was the one that was kidnapped. She literally wanted validation for the fact that she felt abandoned by him, but he didn't really have a choice.
What, and I mean this in the most genuine way possible, was he supposed to do? Not get kidnapped?
Three conversations that made me severely dislike this woman:
Convo #1:
“There’s no way you could possibly feel what I’m feeling, what I’ve felt, from the moment Gabe told me they found you.
.
.
.
“So, no, Oliver…we don’t feel the same. It would be impossible.”
Convo #2:
“God, who hurt you, Sydney?”
“You did!” I shriek, unplanned and untethered, my hysteria bubbling over. “Something inside of me fucking died the day I lost you!”
.
.
.
“Day by day, those walls went up, made of stone and brick and steel and you. I couldn’t let anyone in because I couldn’t bear to feel the way I felt after you disappeared.”
Convo #3:
“There’s nothing to talk about. We’re not on the same page, and that’s on me.”
.
.
.
“And, what, spend the weekend fucking in Travis’s spare bedroom, then go back to our separate lives?”
.
.
.
“No thanks. That’s not what I signed up for.”
Is this bitch on crack? There is no way someone fully conscious would say that to someone who got kidnapped at 7 for 22 years. She is literally insinuating that she went through so much more than he did. I'm not saying that she isn't allowed to feel like that, but the fact that she acts so entitled during those conversations is what makes me mad. She pissed me off so bad that I want to literally smack her.
Oliver Lynch. He was the only character I liked, though he speaks like a British Aristocrat. I think there were some discrepancies in how he was detached from society, yet also still knew vital information. He was so cute though and I feel so bad for him. How HE has feelings for Sydney is the biggest suspense.
The plot. It was interesting at the start, but it didn't hold me throughout. The fact that the plot twist was predictable was one thing, but the romance was also a miss for me. The redeeming part of this had to be that it was easy to read. It was short enough that I read it in one sitting.
I think I had an issue with the pacing. Some of the plot moved kind of fast and then it didn't move fast enough, so it was a constant limbo between the two.
There was a lot of information just thrown out there. While it's not a virtually bad thing, it was just excessive, you know? If it doesn't contribute to the plot in some way, it's just there to confuse me. Struggles of having a terrible memory.
“Well, your hot, traumatized friend is in better shape than my physical trainer,” Clem says airily, finally stepping back from the window and pulling the curtains closed. “Captivity is a good look for him. After my divorce is finalized, I’ll probably be over here a lot more.”
Hello, what?!?! This girl is saying that about someone who was kidnapped and she's acting like he was away on vacation. Girl, what is wrong with you?!?!
The plot twist. It was predictable. I saw it from the very first appearance of Travis that he was the person behind the whole thing. I mean, I wasn't expecting someone completely random to be the person behind the whole thing, but I also wasn't expecting it to be so obvious. His presence just gave off those vibes and the ending where the whole plot twist happened basically was everything that I had thought of.
The romance. I have to say that the romance was basically non-existent. They lusted over each other and then somehow fell in love. I don't think this book is second chance because they were children when he got taken away and they didn't really have feelings for each other. Usually second chance means that they were in a relationship or they had feelings for each other to some capacity, but this just didn't give off the same vibes.
Overall, this might have been a miss for me.
-------
pre-read: just a little message for this book, my bestie dawn says she's going to be a villain on my behalf if you don't work out.
April 30, 2021
After reading 'Still Beating' by this author, Lotus became one I was highly anticipating, I am so glad I discovered this author, no matter what she writes it ends up ticking one or more of my boxes.
This one wasn't as dark as I was hoping it would be, but boy did I swoon, giggle, and fall in love with these two characters. This author sure knows how to throw us unique reads and this was no different, I've not read anything like it before. I loved Oliver so much, his quirkiness, and just everything about him had me falling under his spell. Such a heartfelt beautiful unputdownable read!!
These characters will always have a special place in my heart, I loved their journey, the love they shared even at such a young age was so heartfelt, the author did such an amazing job with these two. I can't wait to read more from her in the future!!
This one wasn't as dark as I was hoping it would be, but boy did I swoon, giggle, and fall in love with these two characters. This author sure knows how to throw us unique reads and this was no different, I've not read anything like it before. I loved Oliver so much, his quirkiness, and just everything about him had me falling under his spell. Such a heartfelt beautiful unputdownable read!!
These characters will always have a special place in my heart, I loved their journey, the love they shared even at such a young age was so heartfelt, the author did such an amazing job with these two. I can't wait to read more from her in the future!!
August 28, 2021
“There is beauty to be found everywhere… even in the things that scare us.”
Lotus is the story of Sydney and Oliver, childhood best friends who were inseparable up until the day Oliver went missing. Sydney grows up with a broken heart, never giving up hope for her best friend.
All these years, I’ve never given my heart to anyone.
The truth is, I didn’t have a heart to give.
My heart was with a ghost.
Escaping captivity after twenty two long years, Oliver is back in a world, and among people, he can no longer recognise. But ever since he sees Sydney, there's been an invisible connection between them.
There’s a hurricane in her eyes, and it’s either going to swallow me whole or leave me crippled, on my knees, lost and alone amongst the wreckage.
I honestly loved this book. Ever since I read Still Beating by this author, I've been a fan of her writing and I wasn't disappointed here either. Beautifully written story with a great friends to lovers transition, this book was unputdownable. Oliver was an absolute sweetheart, and Sydney was a pretty amazing heroine as well. ❤
“Nothing worth holding is ever too hard.”
What I love most about Jennifer Hartmann's books is the palpable chemistry between the characters. It's truly amazing, and I can't wait to read more from her!
P. S.: On a side note, this is the first M/F book I've enjoyed after six long months, I had kinda given up all hope at this point🤷♀️
May 31, 2022
you can't tell me that Jennifer Hartmann didn't put crack in this book. i simply won't believe you because this book is literally addictive, i'll be thinking about it for the next two years and it still won't be enough time for me to process everything because JBZEELDBEZDLZ, you get me ??
September 17, 2023
I have a personal problem with the fmc 🤺
June 9, 2025
Second read rating: 4.5 out of 5 stars.
First read rating: 4.5 out of 5 stars.
I woke up early this morning having my day planned out, then I made a very abrupt decision and picked up this book - which I’d been wanting to re-read for a long time - and here I am, à few hours later, rating it for a second time.
The synopsis of this books is like the adult version of Robin Benway's 'Emmy & Oliver'.
First read rating: 4.5 out of 5 stars.
I woke up early this morning having my day planned out, then I made a very abrupt decision and picked up this book - which I’d been wanting to re-read for a long time - and here I am, à few hours later, rating it for a second time.
The synopsis of this books is like the adult version of Robin Benway's 'Emmy & Oliver'.
July 4, 2021
Audio - 5 Stars
Story - dnf @ 51%
It's definitely me and not the book. I know a lot of reader's will love this story. Lucky them. I wish I could enjoy it.
After the tiny bit of information that was given about this story in another book I read by the author called "Still Beating", I honestly thought this story would be darker. But it's not dark. It's frustrating.
The heroine is sweet and quirky, but she's also a commitment phobe. The hero is sweet, sheltered and innocent. The heroine's skittish behavior hurts him. I. just. can't.
Story - dnf @ 51%
It's definitely me and not the book. I know a lot of reader's will love this story. Lucky them. I wish I could enjoy it.
After the tiny bit of information that was given about this story in another book I read by the author called "Still Beating", I honestly thought this story would be darker. But it's not dark. It's frustrating.
The heroine is sweet and quirky, but she's also a commitment phobe. The hero is sweet, sheltered and innocent. The heroine's skittish behavior hurts him. I. just. can't.
August 1, 2021
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️1/2
Even when he forgot everyone including his mom, he always remembered her.
Considering I’m such a big fan of communication, it’s actually nice that he has no social boundaries and just says whatever he’s thinking.
I’m having a hard time not picturing Sheldon from the Big Bang Theory as Oliver.
Jennifer Hartmann is too fucking good. She lures you in with laughter, quirky characters and feel good moments and at the exact moment you’re totally relaxed and open she comes in for the kill!
The mirroring between these two characters who experienced polar opposites but still managed to break in a similar fashion. Oliver was stolen, his maturity stilted with loneliness and isolation. Sydney had her favorite person pulled out from under her and it nearly broke her so she built up these walls brick by brick until no one can get in. Not even the person she wanted there all along.
When he finally tore down those walls they were lost in each other, where they should’ve been all along.
Honestly, I didn’t know there was a mystery to solve other than the origins of lotus. So, when it all came together it was shocking and all the pieces came to my mind in seconds. Ands it’s utterly heartbreaking. The worst part is if the truth had been told so many things would’ve been different.
Holy shit!!! What?! … oh, well I fucking knew it! 😡
“Never underestimate a nosy neighbor,”
This book is a perfect example that not everything is as it seems.
Lotus … when they figure out what it means … oh man I’m crying so hard.
Sometimes fate is the strongest force of all.
Even when he forgot everyone including his mom, he always remembered her.
Considering I’m such a big fan of communication, it’s actually nice that he has no social boundaries and just says whatever he’s thinking.
I’m having a hard time not picturing Sheldon from the Big Bang Theory as Oliver.
Jennifer Hartmann is too fucking good. She lures you in with laughter, quirky characters and feel good moments and at the exact moment you’re totally relaxed and open she comes in for the kill!
The mirroring between these two characters who experienced polar opposites but still managed to break in a similar fashion. Oliver was stolen, his maturity stilted with loneliness and isolation. Sydney had her favorite person pulled out from under her and it nearly broke her so she built up these walls brick by brick until no one can get in. Not even the person she wanted there all along.
When he finally tore down those walls they were lost in each other, where they should’ve been all along.
Honestly, I didn’t know there was a mystery to solve other than the origins of lotus. So, when it all came together it was shocking and all the pieces came to my mind in seconds. Ands it’s utterly heartbreaking. The worst part is if the truth had been told so many things would’ve been different.
Holy shit!!! What?! … oh, well I fucking knew it! 😡
“Never underestimate a nosy neighbor,”
This book is a perfect example that not everything is as it seems.
Lotus … when they figure out what it means … oh man I’m crying so hard.
Sometimes fate is the strongest force of all.
April 22, 2021
Wow, Just wow. I am not sure I can articulate how I feel about this book; my concern is I am afraid my review will not do this book any justice by my review. Lotus is a masterpiece, and Jennifer Hartman is now one of my favorite and go-to authors. I was anxious to find what would happen and didn't want the story to end.
Lotus is a impressive and beautiful book of a boy who was held captive while being brainwashed for twenty-two years and is now trying to acclimate into today’s society. Let me say how much I adore Oliver and how the author wrote his character. He is so intelligent and is underestimated by those who love him and never gave up hope. He touched my heart and soul. Sydney never gave up hope of losing her best friend and is afraid of losing him again. I love her quick wit, and I laughed so many times.
We read about the aftermath of trauma and the healing journey. It's far from smooth sailing, and their love story is so intense. The author has a way with her writing where I felt every single emotion and her storytelling is top notch. There are a few twists; I didn’t see them coming. It was nice to read cameos of past characters, and I look forward to furthering cameos and new characters. If you're looking for an emotional heart-touching novel, Lotus is a must-read for you.
Lotus is a impressive and beautiful book of a boy who was held captive while being brainwashed for twenty-two years and is now trying to acclimate into today’s society. Let me say how much I adore Oliver and how the author wrote his character. He is so intelligent and is underestimated by those who love him and never gave up hope. He touched my heart and soul. Sydney never gave up hope of losing her best friend and is afraid of losing him again. I love her quick wit, and I laughed so many times.
We read about the aftermath of trauma and the healing journey. It's far from smooth sailing, and their love story is so intense. The author has a way with her writing where I felt every single emotion and her storytelling is top notch. There are a few twists; I didn’t see them coming. It was nice to read cameos of past characters, and I look forward to furthering cameos and new characters. If you're looking for an emotional heart-touching novel, Lotus is a must-read for you.
May 12, 2023
4/5⭐️
This book has been on my TBR for a while now and I’ve finally come around to reading it and I definitely do not regret it one bit!! It was a rollercoaster of emotions to say the least.. I was literally feeling so many emotions all at ones! It was a very crazy ride!!
Oliver and Sydney are literally soulmates and no one can tell me otherwise!! It was just such a beautiful story about their relationship and how they grew together as people and were able to rely on one another so deeply!! It was truly such an amazing ride to see these two improve themselves as a couple and individually!!
However, these two NEEDED therapy more than any book characters I’ve ever read about!!
It was very frustrating at times how they keep getting together but then Sydney always pushed him away because she thought that he’s too good for her. I get that she has been through a lot but like I already said: THERAPY!!!!!!!
One of the main reasons why I couldn’t give this book a full on 5 star rating was because Sydney really frustrated me at times…
No. 2 has to be because it was sometimes a bit boring and dragged on for a while.
However, I still like Syd and am still so glad that she and Oliver got their happy ending because it is what they both deserve, especially Oliver!!!
God do I love Oliver.. he’s such an amazing person inside and out!! He has been through so much and I couldn’t be prouder seeing him grow as a person and living a normal live after having been kidnapped for 22 year!! He deserves the world and nothing less!!
He’s also such an amazing boyfriend to Sydney!! I love that he’s willing to try to be what she needs and is literally willing to do any and everything for it! It was so sweet and I made me love him even more!
Now, besides the back and forth in their relationship, Oliver and Sydney are freaking adorable!! It was so sweet to see their relationship develop over time and seeing how Oliver trusts Sydney so deeply and how Sydney feels so save with Oliver… it was just so cute my heart was racing, I had butterflies in my stomach and I was blushing so soooo hard!!! Also I can totally tell that their love language is words of affirmation because the way Oliver talks with Sydney… I WAS SWOONING!!!!
Overall, this story is truly beautiful and I’m so glad to have picked it up and I can’t wait to read more of the author’s works in the future!
This book has been on my TBR for a while now and I’ve finally come around to reading it and I definitely do not regret it one bit!! It was a rollercoaster of emotions to say the least.. I was literally feeling so many emotions all at ones! It was a very crazy ride!!
Oliver and Sydney are literally soulmates and no one can tell me otherwise!! It was just such a beautiful story about their relationship and how they grew together as people and were able to rely on one another so deeply!! It was truly such an amazing ride to see these two improve themselves as a couple and individually!!
However, these two NEEDED therapy more than any book characters I’ve ever read about!!
It was very frustrating at times how they keep getting together but then Sydney always pushed him away because she thought that he’s too good for her. I get that she has been through a lot but like I already said: THERAPY!!!!!!!
One of the main reasons why I couldn’t give this book a full on 5 star rating was because Sydney really frustrated me at times…
No. 2 has to be because it was sometimes a bit boring and dragged on for a while.
However, I still like Syd and am still so glad that she and Oliver got their happy ending because it is what they both deserve, especially Oliver!!!
God do I love Oliver.. he’s such an amazing person inside and out!! He has been through so much and I couldn’t be prouder seeing him grow as a person and living a normal live after having been kidnapped for 22 year!! He deserves the world and nothing less!!
He’s also such an amazing boyfriend to Sydney!! I love that he’s willing to try to be what she needs and is literally willing to do any and everything for it! It was so sweet and I made me love him even more!
Now, besides the back and forth in their relationship, Oliver and Sydney are freaking adorable!! It was so sweet to see their relationship develop over time and seeing how Oliver trusts Sydney so deeply and how Sydney feels so save with Oliver… it was just so cute my heart was racing, I had butterflies in my stomach and I was blushing so soooo hard!!! Also I can totally tell that their love language is words of affirmation because the way Oliver talks with Sydney… I WAS SWOONING!!!!
Overall, this story is truly beautiful and I’m so glad to have picked it up and I can’t wait to read more of the author’s works in the future!
April 10, 2024
“The Lotus will bloom into the most magnificent flower, even when its roots are in the murkiest of waters.”
I´m utterly in love with this series. I was completely blown away with the first book and this one, although not as triggering as the first (not me sounding like it´s a bad thing lmao it´s not), brilliant nonetheless.
Jennifer Hartmann has the ability to choke you with the intensity, angst and heartbreak until you pass out and near the end of the book she wakes you up and gives you a warm hug petting your head telling you that it´s gonna be alright. That pretty much sums up the affect these stories have on me.
Oliver Lynch might just become one of the book bfs on my laminated list. Absolutely quirky and funny without even meaning to, the kindest heart and a brave soldier. Both Sydneys and Oliver´s character development were brilliant and I was sobbing so much about what all they´ve been through.
The story was so interesting from the start it just sucked me right in. Also hello the plot twist?? I did NOT see that coming. You get a little bit of everything- drama, romance, smut, comedy all blended into a delightful story.
I´m ready to hear Gabe and Tabitha´s story and I found out there´s yet another book as well (me diving into the first book not even knowing it´s a series but what a pleasant surprise).
"Again, I ask, why are you holding a cross? Were you about to attempt another seance to bring Kurt Cobain back from the dead?" 👀👀👀👀
Sorry that my whore eyes just drank you up like a tall glass of water.
“Like every star in the galaxy tumbled to Earth and crawled beneath my skin.”
“Oliver holds it up to his ear and waits, but it keeps ringing. “You’re such a goof. You have to press Accept.” I’m still giggling when I swipe the phone back, noting that the caller is Gabe.”
“But not all love is meant to stay. Sometimes it only serves a temporary purpose.”
I´m utterly in love with this series. I was completely blown away with the first book and this one, although not as triggering as the first (not me sounding like it´s a bad thing lmao it´s not), brilliant nonetheless.
Jennifer Hartmann has the ability to choke you with the intensity, angst and heartbreak until you pass out and near the end of the book she wakes you up and gives you a warm hug petting your head telling you that it´s gonna be alright. That pretty much sums up the affect these stories have on me.
Oliver Lynch might just become one of the book bfs on my laminated list. Absolutely quirky and funny without even meaning to, the kindest heart and a brave soldier. Both Sydneys and Oliver´s character development were brilliant and I was sobbing so much about what all they´ve been through.
The story was so interesting from the start it just sucked me right in. Also hello the plot twist?? I did NOT see that coming. You get a little bit of everything- drama, romance, smut, comedy all blended into a delightful story.
I´m ready to hear Gabe and Tabitha´s story and I found out there´s yet another book as well (me diving into the first book not even knowing it´s a series but what a pleasant surprise).
"Again, I ask, why are you holding a cross? Were you about to attempt another seance to bring Kurt Cobain back from the dead?" 👀👀👀👀
Sorry that my whore eyes just drank you up like a tall glass of water.
“Like every star in the galaxy tumbled to Earth and crawled beneath my skin.”
“Oliver holds it up to his ear and waits, but it keeps ringing. “You’re such a goof. You have to press Accept.” I’m still giggling when I swipe the phone back, noting that the caller is Gabe.”
“But not all love is meant to stay. Sometimes it only serves a temporary purpose.”
February 8, 2023
okay i have to bump this to 5 ⭐️ still thinking about it
June 14, 2022
1.5-star. ***Some SPOILERS***
DNF @ 14%.
Boring characters. Lacked romance & S tension. Didn't like how blank 29yo(?) H was but understandable given he was abducted for past 22 years and lived in a dark basement, being told by his old abductor that they were the only survivors in a post-nuclear world. Kinda like 1999 comedy movie "Blast From the Past". But this wasn't funny or scary. Just boring. h was meh. People were skittish around her as if she was the 1 abducted & missing for 22 years too. Unnecessary drama.
Sexual History thus far:
29yo h had some serious relationships but mostly casual hookups, including a ONS with a bar regular who'd been stalking her since. 1 of the guys she kissed is the H of June First, who's her bar co-worker. 29yo H is a virgin and not used to being touched at all by anyone since his abductor just left him food, comic boys, toys, TV, etc and panic updates about the post-nuke world out there.
DNF @ 14%.
Boring characters. Lacked romance & S tension. Didn't like how blank 29yo(?) H was but understandable given he was abducted for past 22 years and lived in a dark basement, being told by his old abductor that they were the only survivors in a post-nuclear world. Kinda like 1999 comedy movie "Blast From the Past". But this wasn't funny or scary. Just boring. h was meh. People were skittish around her as if she was the 1 abducted & missing for 22 years too. Unnecessary drama.
Sexual History thus far:
29yo h had some serious relationships but mostly casual hookups, including a ONS with a bar regular who'd been stalking her since. 1 of the guys she kissed is the H of June First, who's her bar co-worker. 29yo H is a virgin and not used to being touched at all by anyone since his abductor just left him food, comic boys, toys, TV, etc and panic updates about the post-nuke world out there.
August 29, 2023
4.5⭐️ 2🌶
Stop it right now, how come I didn’t read this so much sooner!! If you loved archer hale in achers voice you will simply adore Oliver in lotus!! I can’t even with this book right now! It had me tearing up left right and centre!!! Syd and Oliver were everything and I loved all of their moments, their love truly was magnetic!! And the meaning behind lotus?! Ripped my heart out, soooo amazing! Absolutely check your trigger warnings for this one!! Truly can’t wait for Gabe and Tabithas story!
What to expect:
Childhood friends to lovers
Stop it right now, how come I didn’t read this so much sooner!! If you loved archer hale in achers voice you will simply adore Oliver in lotus!! I can’t even with this book right now! It had me tearing up left right and centre!!! Syd and Oliver were everything and I loved all of their moments, their love truly was magnetic!! And the meaning behind lotus?! Ripped my heart out, soooo amazing! Absolutely check your trigger warnings for this one!! Truly can’t wait for Gabe and Tabithas story!
What to expect:
Childhood friends to lovers
January 3, 2023
and you get a star, and you get a star, and you get a gazillion stars because 5 stars definitely ain’t enough to say how much I loved this book !!!
I took my sweet time finishing bc i didn’t want to be in the mood I am rn, sad bc I’m done and I can’t reread for the 1st time.
You HAVE TO read this book!!!
I took my sweet time finishing bc i didn’t want to be in the mood I am rn, sad bc I’m done and I can’t reread for the 1st time.
You HAVE TO read this book!!!
August 28, 2022
4.5 stars
I love Jennifer Hartmann’s writing so much. This was another fantastic read. It was also a book that was hard to read and super emotional. I feel like her books can be so difficult to review, because I don’t want to spoil any little thing. I’m glad I went into this completely blind. This is about two childhood best friends, Oliver and Sydney, navigating renewing their friendship and feelings as adults after being apart most of their lives. I think ‘The Wrong Heart’ is still my favorite JH book to date, but I’ve truly enjoyed all of her books so far!
I love Jennifer Hartmann’s writing so much. This was another fantastic read. It was also a book that was hard to read and super emotional. I feel like her books can be so difficult to review, because I don’t want to spoil any little thing. I’m glad I went into this completely blind. This is about two childhood best friends, Oliver and Sydney, navigating renewing their friendship and feelings as adults after being apart most of their lives. I think ‘The Wrong Heart’ is still my favorite JH book to date, but I’ve truly enjoyed all of her books so far!
Audio book source: Audible
Story Rating: 4.5 stars
Narrators: Bradley Ford & Cali Nottingham
Narration Rating: 4 stars
Genre: Contemporary Romance
Length: 12h 11m
August 20, 2025
1 Star
I feel like books shouldn't be judged by their cover, they should be judged by their worst quote.
Some background info, Oliver(H) was recently found after spending twenty two years in captivity. Instead of giving us something meaningful, the author decided to write on PoP- the Power of Pussy.
“I ache for you, Sydney,” Oliver rasps, one hand curling behind my head, fisting my hair. “I crave to be inside you more than I craved freedom in all of those twenty-two years combined.”
Holy hell. I feel my ovaries spontaneously fertilizing.
Ummm am I reading this shit right??? someone pull up a thesaurus and find me a stronger word than astounded.
I feel like books shouldn't be judged by their cover, they should be judged by their worst quote.
Some background info, Oliver(H) was recently found after spending twenty two years in captivity. Instead of giving us something meaningful, the author decided to write on PoP- the Power of Pussy.
“I ache for you, Sydney,” Oliver rasps, one hand curling behind my head, fisting my hair. “I crave to be inside you more than I craved freedom in all of those twenty-two years combined.”
Holy hell. I feel my ovaries spontaneously fertilizing.
Ummm am I reading this shit right??? someone pull up a thesaurus and find me a stronger word than astounded.
June 7, 2024
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
This book was really good. I’ve realized I love the way Jennifer Hartman is able to take two people who don’t WANT to cross that line but they’re almost like human fated mates that cannot ignore their palpable chemistry.
There were a couple very specific (and would be spoilers if I shared) reasons why it didn’t quite make a 5 star review for me.
What I DID love, was the meaning of “lotus”. Waited the whole damn book to find that out and it was well worth it.
This book was really good. I’ve realized I love the way Jennifer Hartman is able to take two people who don’t WANT to cross that line but they’re almost like human fated mates that cannot ignore their palpable chemistry.
There were a couple very specific (and would be spoilers if I shared) reasons why it didn’t quite make a 5 star review for me.
What I DID love, was the meaning of “lotus”. Waited the whole damn book to find that out and it was well worth it.
December 4, 2021
If you ever doubted the power of hope riding on a prayer, read this story to replenish your stock of faith. It's concentrated dose of strength of the human spirit. The ability to never give up and conquer all fears.
Powerful, profound and haunting, this impactful story shall stay with you ALWAYS!!
"Strength.
I used to think strength was rooted in the fight. Prevailing.
Surviving the things determined to tear us down. But true strength isn’t necessarily overcoming the fight—it is how we fight.
It is not within the sword itself, but in how we wield it.
how does one read a story like Lotus and not come out unchanged. Unaffected by the poetic words, the nuanced emotions, the subtle prose. It knocks on your heart and you are forced to open the doors and let all the sentiments come pouring in like a deluge. I'm as effected by it as maybe the writer herself.
"The Lotus will bloom into the most magnificent flower, even when its roots are in the murkiest of waters. "
It's heavenly & transcendental love that is promised one afternoon, lying under the sycamore tree, sketching and making wishes on the July 4th fireworks by 7 year Olds Oliver & Sydney. All the innocence and naivete of childhood speaks in God's ears cause HE keeps their note of promise safe till their life altering ordeal begins the very next moment.
From that moment on Oliver is abducted, held captive under the earth for 22 years.
His resilience,his courage, his tenacity to live is tested long after he escapes and comes back to he real world which has moved on, except for Sydney who's still standing at the very spot like a milestone in her life where they got separated. She's the only one STILL holding on to the hope, the wish, the miraculous prayer that he'd come back and she may start living again.
“We need to fight for what’s in our hearts. No one else can do that for us,”
she tells me pointedly. “And if there is anything on this earth worth fighting for, it’s love.”
The story opens in layers with every chapter, you get to see the character development in progress in its raw, naked form slowly. You grow with them and root for them.
The recovery and restructuring takes a slow, lengthy process but it's important not to rush things.
The climax has some heinous, dangerous secrets being unravelled and the faceless villain to come into focus. The end will shock you with nauseous betraying truths that all had to face.
“Trauma is like poison. It seeps in when you least expect it to, and it lingers long after the initial dust has settled, inflicting more damage, more destruction. It’s a vicious cycle.”
There's the closure, the "Loose Thread" that Jennifer ties so adeptly into a bow.
I've devoured this book like manna from heaven. It's divine love that outlives time, distance and relations. I'd recommend to everyone to go BINGE READ her books, like I've done. Soak in the literary glorious sunshine.
5 stars for sn + ol
Follow me on:
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Powerful, profound and haunting, this impactful story shall stay with you ALWAYS!!
"Strength.
I used to think strength was rooted in the fight. Prevailing.
Surviving the things determined to tear us down. But true strength isn’t necessarily overcoming the fight—it is how we fight.
It is not within the sword itself, but in how we wield it.
how does one read a story like Lotus and not come out unchanged. Unaffected by the poetic words, the nuanced emotions, the subtle prose. It knocks on your heart and you are forced to open the doors and let all the sentiments come pouring in like a deluge. I'm as effected by it as maybe the writer herself.
"The Lotus will bloom into the most magnificent flower, even when its roots are in the murkiest of waters. "
It's heavenly & transcendental love that is promised one afternoon, lying under the sycamore tree, sketching and making wishes on the July 4th fireworks by 7 year Olds Oliver & Sydney. All the innocence and naivete of childhood speaks in God's ears cause HE keeps their note of promise safe till their life altering ordeal begins the very next moment.
From that moment on Oliver is abducted, held captive under the earth for 22 years.
His resilience,his courage, his tenacity to live is tested long after he escapes and comes back to he real world which has moved on, except for Sydney who's still standing at the very spot like a milestone in her life where they got separated. She's the only one STILL holding on to the hope, the wish, the miraculous prayer that he'd come back and she may start living again.
“We need to fight for what’s in our hearts. No one else can do that for us,”
she tells me pointedly. “And if there is anything on this earth worth fighting for, it’s love.”
The story opens in layers with every chapter, you get to see the character development in progress in its raw, naked form slowly. You grow with them and root for them.
The recovery and restructuring takes a slow, lengthy process but it's important not to rush things.
The climax has some heinous, dangerous secrets being unravelled and the faceless villain to come into focus. The end will shock you with nauseous betraying truths that all had to face.
“Trauma is like poison. It seeps in when you least expect it to, and it lingers long after the initial dust has settled, inflicting more damage, more destruction. It’s a vicious cycle.”
There's the closure, the "Loose Thread" that Jennifer ties so adeptly into a bow.
I've devoured this book like manna from heaven. It's divine love that outlives time, distance and relations. I'd recommend to everyone to go BINGE READ her books, like I've done. Soak in the literary glorious sunshine.
5 stars for sn + ol
Follow me on:
Email🌻 Bookbub 🌻 Twitter🌻 Instagram🌻 Blog🌻 Facebook🌻 Amazon 🌻
May 22, 2023
no sé qué pensar al respecto. es muy brutal la historia y me dio mucha pena en ciertas partes, pero el romance es demasiado dramático y meloso. si disfrutan los romances contemporáneos en los que los protas prefieren MORIR antes de estar sin el otro, este libro es para uds.
yo valoro mucho mi vida para esto JAJAJA.
yo valoro mucho mi vida para esto JAJAJA.
November 5, 2022
I loved the unusual setup for this romance, following a man who has been kidnapped and kept in captivity since he was 8 years old struggling to readjust to the world whilst also reconnecting with his childhood best friend.
My favourite element has to be the kidnapping plot line and the eventual unravelling of that, I didn't like that we lost this a little bit in the middle though and the romance itself was a little bit too wholesome for my liking
My favourite element has to be the kidnapping plot line and the eventual unravelling of that, I didn't like that we lost this a little bit in the middle though and the romance itself was a little bit too wholesome for my liking
October 22, 2022
Anther great story from Miss Hartmann. Although Lotus has softer, more tender and more sweeter tone, the plot is still interesting.
Miss Hartmann certainly knows how to play with her readers emotion. Lotus is a wreck heart break story. Good thing it is not as dark and twisted as Still Beating.
I love Oliver. How innocent and geeky he is. Inside of him, he is a hero, a survivor. And his love for Sydney is beautiful and magical.
4 stars
Miss Hartmann certainly knows how to play with her readers emotion. Lotus is a wreck heart break story. Good thing it is not as dark and twisted as Still Beating.
I love Oliver. How innocent and geeky he is. Inside of him, he is a hero, a survivor. And his love for Sydney is beautiful and magical.
4 stars
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