Stubborn Love

By: Wendy Owens

Narrated by: Caitlin Kelly

I thought 23 would be the year I reclaimed my identity. Ashton decided to give me a new one. Widow. A woman so cold she could drive her husband to suicide.

When Emmie Hayes' life is rocked by tragedy, she heads to New York City in hopes of finding herself again, but second chances aren't easy for a stubborn heart.

©2014, 2016 Wendy Owens (P)2016 Wendy Owens

I Guess Listeners Love or Hate This Bookl-Me? Love

Emmie marries her first and only love right after high school, and then life became unbearable. Her husband, Ashton, became mentally, verbally and physically abusive. One night he follow through with his threat, if she left him he would kill himself.

She moved away not able to bear all the sympathetic glances, kind words and to try to get away from the guilt.

She moved in with her mum and pursues her love of art, as far as she could with her online classes. Finally, she decided to head to New York City and finish her studies… chasing a dream she has had since she was little.

Once there she needs an eclectic group of people who insist on tearing down her walls.

Wendy Owens has written a wonderful and believable novel.

Caitlin Kelly is a wonderful performer in her narration. The cast of characters of 20 somethings and she does a fantastic job giving each one a unique voice. She is one of the few who have the talent of portraying female and male characters in a realistic sounding way.

*Given to me in exchange for my review. I have no problem recommending this to anyone who enjoys contemporary romance. The skillful writing and brilliant narration has me adding both Wendy Owens & Caitlin Kelly to my list of favorites. I won't hesitate to check them out for other work.

Note: Mature themes, strong language & violence. None of which are constant, but should be noted in case one wants to avoid that stuff.


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Really good story

The way this book started out, I felt like I was going to need a box of tissue... Thankfully, that wasn't the case. It's a great read. Nothing too angsty IMO but it may be for some.

Lacked something?

I am a middle aged (disgusting words) listener and I do enjoy a younger ages heroine if the story is decent but some just miss the mark a bit. Caitlin Kelly, in my opinion, did not spend enough time in the back story. I realize most books do enjoy teasing you in the unfolding of events but we are told from the very beginning that Clementine was in an abusive relationship. She spends the rest of the 6 hours in the mindset of a beaten down woman but doesn't ever show the extent of the abuse to warrant it.
I did find the story somewhat enjoyable and did finish the audiobook. I guess it just depends on the listener's age group!
The narrator did a great job with the emotions and I would recommend her work.

I was gifted a copy of this audiobook from publisher in exchange of and honest review.

OK read

Is there anything you would change about this book?

This story started off with a bang and I was hopeful and thought it had great potential.
But from right before half of the book it was just average and predictable.

Which is sad because the message is so important and this book could have helped this issue to rise even more.

What was your reaction to the ending? (No spoilers please!)

Nothing special

Have you listened to any of Caitlin Kelly’s other performances before? How does this one compare?

First time from Caitlin and I will say she did a good job.
She did great with all voices she was preforming and the feeling was good through the whole book.

If this book were a movie would you go see it?

Not sure

A Great Listen

This audiobook was provided by the author, narrator, or publisher at no cost in exchange for an unbiased review courtesy of Audiobook Blast.

Overall the book had an interesting plot and kept my attention. The narrator was easy to understand and really brought the characters to life. I would listen or read more from this author.