This Can't Be Love [NOOK Book]

Engrossing

Jessica Hart made mistake after mistake for many years of her life, and it's left her a mess. The title of her story is so appropriate. It fits the book well. This Can't Be Love is an emotional awakening for a woman who doubts her every move and bottles up everything inside.

Though I don't agree with everything Jessica does, I relate to her on so many levels that it's scary. Her long string of bad relationships start out in her teenage years, and she kept the truth hidden from those she loved the most. As I read on, I learned new things about Jessica, as she slowly opened herself up physically and emotionally to Zach. The tension sizzles as she tries hard to get Zach's physical affection.

I feel for Zach. What is a man to do when he wants someone so bad, but is torn between doing the right thing or giving into his desires? He doesn't know what to make of stubborn, reserved Jessica, and the fact that she's driving him wild with need and frustration at the same time doesn't help. Slowly, brick by brick, he breaks down the barriers that guard her heart.

Debra St. John sets the stage for a battle of dealing with inner fears and demons, acceptance, and coming to terms with the past. The story and characters tugged at my heart while reading. I enjoyed this book very much, eagerly turning the pages, wondering exactly how the author was going to settle the inner conflict between the two. Sometimes I wanted to cry, and at times I wanted to scream, "What's wrong with you?". I felt what Jessica and Zach did, and with the ending, I found myself sighing in relief, satisfied.

If you like a contemporary, passionate and emotional read, then laugh and cry along with this one. An author who can make the reader feel so many things is one that has staying power in the writing world.

Originally posted at The Long and Short of It Romance Reviews