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Only You #3
Only the Negatives
The boy who once made my life a living hell is now the only way to save my family from living on the streets.
I wish he’d just stayed wherever he’s been for the past four years. That is, blissfully out of my life and nowhere near our little country town.
But in my weakest moment, he arrived like some knight in shining armour. One I never wanted or asked for. I should have run him down with my wheelchair. But I didn’t. I got in his car. And now I have to see his beautiful damn face every damn day.
And that’s my worst nightmare. Because the things he once said can’t be unheard. The hell he put me through can’t be forgotten. The man he is now can’t be forgiven for the boy he once was.
And yet, I want him.
Set in a country town in rural Australia, Only the Negatives is a second chance, enemies to lovers romance, featuring a strong, disabled heroine and the man willing to do anything for another chance.
I wish he’d just stayed wherever he’s been for the past four years. That is, blissfully out of my life and nowhere near our little country town.
But in my weakest moment, he arrived like some knight in shining armour. One I never wanted or asked for. I should have run him down with my wheelchair. But I didn’t. I got in his car. And now I have to see his beautiful damn face every damn day.
And that’s my worst nightmare. Because the things he once said can’t be unheard. The hell he put me through can’t be forgotten. The man he is now can’t be forgiven for the boy he once was.
And yet, I want him.
Set in a country town in rural Australia, Only the Negatives is a second chance, enemies to lovers romance, featuring a strong, disabled heroine and the man willing to do anything for another chance.
264 pages, Kindle Edition
First published January 30, 2019
About the author
Elle Thorpe
43 books3,539 followersUSA Today Bestselling author Elle Thorpe is the author of over thirty romance titles, including Amazon top ten books, Start a War and Locked Up Liars. She is best known for her dark reverse harems, and sexy small town romances.
When she's not writing, she's probably out on her family's alpaca farm in rural Australia.
Facebook: www.facebook.com/ellethorpebooks
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When she's not writing, she's probably out on her family's alpaca farm in rural Australia.
Facebook: www.facebook.com/ellethorpebooks
Instagram: www.instagram.com/ellethorpebooks
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 96 reviews
January 31, 2019
And the first book of 2019 is finished!
This was my first Elle Thorpe read and I enjoyed it immensely! Really thankful that I received an arc of this book and already can’t wait to read more by this author.
Full review to be found on my blog:
http://melissasfandomworld.com
This was my first Elle Thorpe read and I enjoyed it immensely! Really thankful that I received an arc of this book and already can’t wait to read more by this author.
Full review to be found on my blog:
http://melissasfandomworld.com
January 15, 2019
This book was about heartbreak, growing up, and becoming better versions of yourself.
Gemma and Ryker had a lot to overcome. Ryker was trying to overcome his past, and Gemma was trying to overcome the obstacles that were blocking her future.
These two have grown up together. Ryker has always had the same feelings for Gemma, but Gemma's feelings have changed to hate over the years.
I loved how these two were open and honest with each other after their road trip. No matter what happened, there were never any secrets between them. This showed their maturity and love for one another.
As always, the secondary characters added the perfect amount of excitement. I cannot wait to find out what happens to Bianca and Riley. Their explosive relationship is bound to go up in flames before it gets better. I am also hoping that Ryker's brothers get their own story! Jared...fighter...sign me up!
-An Arc was generously provided in exchange for an honest review.-
Gemma and Ryker had a lot to overcome. Ryker was trying to overcome his past, and Gemma was trying to overcome the obstacles that were blocking her future.
These two have grown up together. Ryker has always had the same feelings for Gemma, but Gemma's feelings have changed to hate over the years.
I loved how these two were open and honest with each other after their road trip. No matter what happened, there were never any secrets between them. This showed their maturity and love for one another.
As always, the secondary characters added the perfect amount of excitement. I cannot wait to find out what happens to Bianca and Riley. Their explosive relationship is bound to go up in flames before it gets better. I am also hoping that Ryker's brothers get their own story! Jared...fighter...sign me up!
-An Arc was generously provided in exchange for an honest review.-
January 5, 2019
This!!! Omg this book! Had me cheesing! Had me crying! Had me angry! And I loved every minute of it! Ryker was everything! Swoon 😍😍 Thank you Elle so much for the arc!
March 18, 2019
I adore every one of Thorpe's novels, but Gemma and Ryker's story possibly is my favourite. There is so much heart in this tale and the chemistry between our hero and heroine is off the scale.
Gemma is in a wheelchair following an accident she had as a child. This makes her one tough cookie as she does not let this slow her down, not in her daily life nor in her aspirations to be a photographer. Nor does it affect how Ryker sees her. He's been crazy about her for years but they start the book as enemies, forced to colocate when he begins work on her family farm.
I have never wanted a couple to kiss so badly as I did these two. Honestly, I was muttering at my kindle like a crazy lady.
The setting of the Australian outback is a refreshing change and well described. I want to visit the farm and see our happy couple's HEA in action.
Five star read, as always from Ms Thorpe.
Gemma is in a wheelchair following an accident she had as a child. This makes her one tough cookie as she does not let this slow her down, not in her daily life nor in her aspirations to be a photographer. Nor does it affect how Ryker sees her. He's been crazy about her for years but they start the book as enemies, forced to colocate when he begins work on her family farm.
I have never wanted a couple to kiss so badly as I did these two. Honestly, I was muttering at my kindle like a crazy lady.
The setting of the Australian outback is a refreshing change and well described. I want to visit the farm and see our happy couple's HEA in action.
Five star read, as always from Ms Thorpe.
January 20, 2019
So I finished Only the Negatives a few days ago but I had to think on what I wanted to say for my review. And think. And think.
This book follows Gemma and Ryker. Ryker was the boy next door that made Gemma's life miserable in high school. Gemma is wheel chair bound after an accident when she was just a kid. When their lives collide after spending years apart, Gemma is set on avoiding and hating Ryker for as long as possible. Until Ryker gets a job on Gemma's family farm. Now forced to see him every day Gemma must figure out if she is finally ready to forgive Ryker for that first day of high school and move on, or if the pain of the past is too much to ever forget.
Gemma and Ryker used to be best friends until one day in high school changed everything. Ryker has been trying to make up for his past bad mistkesm thought his life. Gemma has to make a decision- help out on her family's farm, or to follow her dreams and face prejudice of being wheelchair bound. Can they find their way to each other?
This was an emotional read, and the first book of Elle Thorpe's that I had read. It had failures and triumphs, along with a friendship turned enemies turned lovers romance. 4⭐ out of 5⭐.
This book follows Gemma and Ryker. Ryker was the boy next door that made Gemma's life miserable in high school. Gemma is wheel chair bound after an accident when she was just a kid. When their lives collide after spending years apart, Gemma is set on avoiding and hating Ryker for as long as possible. Until Ryker gets a job on Gemma's family farm. Now forced to see him every day Gemma must figure out if she is finally ready to forgive Ryker for that first day of high school and move on, or if the pain of the past is too much to ever forget.
Gemma and Ryker used to be best friends until one day in high school changed everything. Ryker has been trying to make up for his past bad mistkesm thought his life. Gemma has to make a decision- help out on her family's farm, or to follow her dreams and face prejudice of being wheelchair bound. Can they find their way to each other?
This was an emotional read, and the first book of Elle Thorpe's that I had read. It had failures and triumphs, along with a friendship turned enemies turned lovers romance. 4⭐ out of 5⭐.
January 4, 2022
because of him, she was bullied, and now she needs help, and guesses who helps her?
Gemma's dad had a heart attack and she needs help taking care of the farm because even though she wants to, some activities are hard for her since she's in a wheelchair.
Ryker desperately needs a place to stay, so when he sees the offer of a job with a home, he says yes in a minute.
this is advertised as enemies to lovers romance, but she accepts his apology pretty early in the book, so this is more of a friends to lovers.
Gemma's dad had a heart attack and she needs help taking care of the farm because even though she wants to, some activities are hard for her since she's in a wheelchair.
Ryker desperately needs a place to stay, so when he sees the offer of a job with a home, he says yes in a minute.
this is advertised as enemies to lovers romance, but she accepts his apology pretty early in the book, so this is more of a friends to lovers.
December 5, 2019
hope to receive the third book free this one was so good I want another one
January 16, 2019
Elle Thorpe has become one of my favorite new authors since I first read her debut release Only the Positives in Fall of 2018. In Only the Negatives, book 3 of the Only You series, we meet Gemma and Adam Ryker. Gemma was briefly introduced in book 1 as the younger sister to Reese with book 3 occuring 10 years later. With Only the Negatives we get a beautiful love story of a strong willed, determined young woman and a lost, sorrowful young man.
Gemma, who at a young age was left partially paralyzed and wheelchair bound due to a horseback riding accident, is a woman tied to her family's farm yet has a strong desire to venture on her own. Tying her down, however, is her own confidence in managing a life outside her family farm while confined to a wheelchair and the the past betrayals she experienced in school. Adam Ryker is a man long known on making the wrong decisions and regretting them once they are done. He is a man determined to live a better life and right his wrongs as much as he can.
Gemma and Adam had a young friendship which has been torn apart in high school amid bullying and unwillingness to make amends. The connection they shared as friends is reconnected again when Adam returns back to their hometown and takes on a job at Gemma’s family farm. With a sincere apology on how he treated Gemma in school and some heartfelt talks, Gemma and Adam’s love story unveils but not without a few hiccups. Love is not an easy journey as we see in Gemma and Adam's tale but it is also beautiful, touching and sweet.
For being a relatively new published author, Thorpe amazes me with her ability to paint a scene picture perfect for my imagination. With Only the Negatives and her previous releases, Thorpe creates honest interactions and emotions in her characters and does not shy away from dealing with difficult subject matters. One of the many highlights of this read was the glimpse in the life of the characters Thorpe first introduced to us in book 1 and where they are at 10 years later. I have loved each book in this series and am anxious to read the next release.
Take a chance on this new author and start reading the series from the beginning; you won't be disappointed!
**Received an ARC of Only the Negatives for an honest review**
Gemma, who at a young age was left partially paralyzed and wheelchair bound due to a horseback riding accident, is a woman tied to her family's farm yet has a strong desire to venture on her own. Tying her down, however, is her own confidence in managing a life outside her family farm while confined to a wheelchair and the the past betrayals she experienced in school. Adam Ryker is a man long known on making the wrong decisions and regretting them once they are done. He is a man determined to live a better life and right his wrongs as much as he can.
Gemma and Adam had a young friendship which has been torn apart in high school amid bullying and unwillingness to make amends. The connection they shared as friends is reconnected again when Adam returns back to their hometown and takes on a job at Gemma’s family farm. With a sincere apology on how he treated Gemma in school and some heartfelt talks, Gemma and Adam’s love story unveils but not without a few hiccups. Love is not an easy journey as we see in Gemma and Adam's tale but it is also beautiful, touching and sweet.
For being a relatively new published author, Thorpe amazes me with her ability to paint a scene picture perfect for my imagination. With Only the Negatives and her previous releases, Thorpe creates honest interactions and emotions in her characters and does not shy away from dealing with difficult subject matters. One of the many highlights of this read was the glimpse in the life of the characters Thorpe first introduced to us in book 1 and where they are at 10 years later. I have loved each book in this series and am anxious to read the next release.
Take a chance on this new author and start reading the series from the beginning; you won't be disappointed!
**Received an ARC of Only the Negatives for an honest review**
February 2, 2019
WARM & FUZZY with a BITE of HEARTACHE!
Voluntarily review
A fantastic read that is flawless throughout as it demands a place in your heart filling you with a tsunami of emotions that shake the heck out of filling you with fun and excitement to sucking the breathe from your lungs rendered speechless to tears sliding down your face broken and bruised wanting to give hugs and needing one for yourself but so worth it all in the end! Engrossing unique twists that push you to the edge and keeps you there making it impossible to put down. An absolute must read that will continue to stick with you long after the last page has been read!
Voluntarily review
A fantastic read that is flawless throughout as it demands a place in your heart filling you with a tsunami of emotions that shake the heck out of filling you with fun and excitement to sucking the breathe from your lungs rendered speechless to tears sliding down your face broken and bruised wanting to give hugs and needing one for yourself but so worth it all in the end! Engrossing unique twists that push you to the edge and keeps you there making it impossible to put down. An absolute must read that will continue to stick with you long after the last page has been read!
January 30, 2019
I absolutely loved this story. It's the first book by Elle Thorpe that I've read and while it is the third book in the series, I didn't find it a problem having missed the previous two.
It's very well written and I loved Gemma. She is one determined lady when it comes Ryker! She wants nothing to do with him when he comes to her aid at the start of the story. He'd hurt her and she had no intention of letting it happen again.
Ryker is filled with guilt for his behaviour years ago and has an uphill struggle with trying to show Gemma that he's not the boy he used to be.
Thrown together the attraction comes to a slow burn and then...a beautiful story happens.
It's very well written and I loved Gemma. She is one determined lady when it comes Ryker! She wants nothing to do with him when he comes to her aid at the start of the story. He'd hurt her and she had no intention of letting it happen again.
Ryker is filled with guilt for his behaviour years ago and has an uphill struggle with trying to show Gemma that he's not the boy he used to be.
Thrown together the attraction comes to a slow burn and then...a beautiful story happens.
December 31, 2018
Adam Ryker tries so hard to do the right thing in many instances, but still messes up mightily. One of his biggest mess-ups involves the way he ruins his friendship with Gemma on the day she starts high school. This leads to them becoming enemies for several years, even though he wants to make amends. Unfortunately, one rarely comes back from a screw-up of this magnitude.
Gemma wants to be a photographer, and is learning to use her new lens when her dad has a stroke. Her parents leave for the hospital quickly, without finding Gemma, so she has to get there on her own with her wheelchair. Ryker finds her after she’s been on the road in the sun, pushing her wheelchair for many kilometers already. Her hands are bloodied and blistered, and she accepts a ride with him. They finally talk, and she begins to understand his motivations for the hurt and humiliation he caused her all those years ago.
They reach a truce and slowly become friends. Ryker has a debt that he owes. The guy he owes the money to is not a nice person. This leads to complications in the story, but no spoilers here.
This story has many wonderful parts to it. Gemma is handicapped. When her disability is combined with her difficult high school experience, she becomes a very strong protagonist. Ryker has made some bad choices, yet he continues to learn from them, and grows a lot in the process. He is a wonderful character with a beautiful heart, and he really cares about Gemma.
This book needs to be shared for many reasons, but especially to let people who may not know, that life can still be full and meaningful even with a disability. Gemma shines in this book, and doesn’t let her wheelchair stop her from living her dream. Gemma becomes a role model for others at the end, which is a wonderful and fitting way to finish off this beautiful book.
Well done!!
Gemma wants to be a photographer, and is learning to use her new lens when her dad has a stroke. Her parents leave for the hospital quickly, without finding Gemma, so she has to get there on her own with her wheelchair. Ryker finds her after she’s been on the road in the sun, pushing her wheelchair for many kilometers already. Her hands are bloodied and blistered, and she accepts a ride with him. They finally talk, and she begins to understand his motivations for the hurt and humiliation he caused her all those years ago.
They reach a truce and slowly become friends. Ryker has a debt that he owes. The guy he owes the money to is not a nice person. This leads to complications in the story, but no spoilers here.
This story has many wonderful parts to it. Gemma is handicapped. When her disability is combined with her difficult high school experience, she becomes a very strong protagonist. Ryker has made some bad choices, yet he continues to learn from them, and grows a lot in the process. He is a wonderful character with a beautiful heart, and he really cares about Gemma.
This book needs to be shared for many reasons, but especially to let people who may not know, that life can still be full and meaningful even with a disability. Gemma shines in this book, and doesn’t let her wheelchair stop her from living her dream. Gemma becomes a role model for others at the end, which is a wonderful and fitting way to finish off this beautiful book.
Well done!!
January 12, 2019
Elle Thorpe has rapidly become one of my favorite authors ever. I love her style of writing and can’t seem to get enough. Only the Negative is Book 3 in the Only You series, which takes on a subject that cannot have been easy to write. The one thing I have learnt from reading Elle Thorpe’s books is that she is not afraid to tackle difficult yet real life situations and that shows in her writing. First with Only the Positive and now with this one. This is writing at it’s absolute finest.
Only the Negatives is a beautiful and compelling story about friendship, betrayal, heartache, and forgiveness. The writing is completely flawless and Gemma and Ryker together could not have been more perfect. This story has so many wonderful elements to it. Gemma is a paraplegic. When her disability is combined with her difficult high school experiences she becomes a very strong and independent heroine. Gemma truly shines in this book, and doesn’t let her disability stop her from living her dream. In the end, Gemma becomes a role model for others. This was a wonderful and fitting way to finish off this incredible story. Ryker has made some bad mistakes and choices, yet he owns up to them and he learns from them, and grows hell of a lot in the process. He is a wonderful character with so much soul and a beautiful heart. He truly cares about Gemma.
This book is an outstanding read. The words captured my full attention and found myself up for hours lost in every page. I am in love with this series and these amazing characters and I absolutely can’t wait for the next book.
Only the Negatives is a beautiful and compelling story about friendship, betrayal, heartache, and forgiveness. The writing is completely flawless and Gemma and Ryker together could not have been more perfect. This story has so many wonderful elements to it. Gemma is a paraplegic. When her disability is combined with her difficult high school experiences she becomes a very strong and independent heroine. Gemma truly shines in this book, and doesn’t let her disability stop her from living her dream. In the end, Gemma becomes a role model for others. This was a wonderful and fitting way to finish off this incredible story. Ryker has made some bad mistakes and choices, yet he owns up to them and he learns from them, and grows hell of a lot in the process. He is a wonderful character with so much soul and a beautiful heart. He truly cares about Gemma.
This book is an outstanding read. The words captured my full attention and found myself up for hours lost in every page. I am in love with this series and these amazing characters and I absolutely can’t wait for the next book.
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January 17, 2019
I absolutely loved this book. Gemma and Ryker were childhood friends, however, things changed as they got older and they ended up growing apart. Gemma was definitely not happy to see Ryker or to have him back in her life.
Seeing how much these two had to overcome different obstacles in their life and their relationship was eye opening. Gemma may be one of my favorite heroines I’ve ever read because she is different, she feels real. She is strong, she’s a great role model. She doesn’t let the fact that she is in a wheel chair hold her back from anything in life. Ryker took some warming up to, I wanted to dislike him because of how he treated Gemma in the past, but he made up for that. He showed her that he wasn’t that person anymore.
Only the Negatives is a beautiful love story that will break your heart but also put it back together. It’s a story about growing up, never giving up and being the best version of yourself.
While it can be read as a standalone, it’s also a great series. Elle Thorpe is definitely an author you will want to keep your eye in. Her stories are fantastic and full of detail. You truly feel like you are in the scene.
Seeing how much these two had to overcome different obstacles in their life and their relationship was eye opening. Gemma may be one of my favorite heroines I’ve ever read because she is different, she feels real. She is strong, she’s a great role model. She doesn’t let the fact that she is in a wheel chair hold her back from anything in life. Ryker took some warming up to, I wanted to dislike him because of how he treated Gemma in the past, but he made up for that. He showed her that he wasn’t that person anymore.
Only the Negatives is a beautiful love story that will break your heart but also put it back together. It’s a story about growing up, never giving up and being the best version of yourself.
While it can be read as a standalone, it’s also a great series. Elle Thorpe is definitely an author you will want to keep your eye in. Her stories are fantastic and full of detail. You truly feel like you are in the scene.
January 31, 2019
This book, by an author new to me, was a pleasant surprise that I read almost by accident even though I am desperately behind on some other books and series I am in the middle of. I’m drawn to bully stories so the blurb caught me with that but really, this book wasn’t what I think of as a bully romance. Instead it was a very romantic contemporary romance with a good man hero who has made some mistakes in his life but desperately is working to overcome them. Gemma, a disabled heroine (refreshing) is also a good woman, working hard at her parents’ farm/horse-riding business while longing to pursue passions of her own. Overall the book is a little sweeter than how my tastes generally run, but it is written very well and I was touched by several aspects of it. It is listed as the third in a series but it is the only one I have read and I wasn’t missing anything that I could tell so I assume it is a series of standalones.
3.5
3.5
July 16, 2020
3.5 Stars
Liked this more than I thought I would. Following her father’s stroke, wheelchair bound Gemma has no alternative but to work with the boy next door. Adam had made Gemma a scapegoat to protect his brother in high school, which inadvertently led to years of bullying. Although young, I really liked these two MC’s together. Loveable Adam proves his remorse and luckily, Gemma forgave him early on. However, the Gerard arc fell flat for me - the wedding scene was so far fetched and annoyingly left unresolved. Overall, an enjoyable easy read. Although third in a series, it can be read as a stand-alone.
Liked this more than I thought I would. Following her father’s stroke, wheelchair bound Gemma has no alternative but to work with the boy next door. Adam had made Gemma a scapegoat to protect his brother in high school, which inadvertently led to years of bullying. Although young, I really liked these two MC’s together. Loveable Adam proves his remorse and luckily, Gemma forgave him early on. However, the Gerard arc fell flat for me - the wedding scene was so far fetched and annoyingly left unresolved. Overall, an enjoyable easy read. Although third in a series, it can be read as a stand-alone.
January 1, 2019
Heartfelt and sexy
Elle Thorpe is quickly becoming one of my favorite new authors. I love her style of writing and can’t seem to get enough
I must say, this right here is what sets her apart from other writers. She’s definitely not afraid to step outside the box. First with Only the Positive and now with this one. This is writing at its best.
Only the Negatives is a beautiful story about friendship, betrayal, heartache, and forgiveness.
The writing is flawless and Gemma and Ryker couldn’t have been more perfect.
Im in love with this series and these characters and I absolutely can’t wait for the next book.
I was honored to receive an ARC and this is my honest review
Elle Thorpe is quickly becoming one of my favorite new authors. I love her style of writing and can’t seem to get enough
I must say, this right here is what sets her apart from other writers. She’s definitely not afraid to step outside the box. First with Only the Positive and now with this one. This is writing at its best.
Only the Negatives is a beautiful story about friendship, betrayal, heartache, and forgiveness.
The writing is flawless and Gemma and Ryker couldn’t have been more perfect.
Im in love with this series and these characters and I absolutely can’t wait for the next book.
I was honored to receive an ARC and this is my honest review
November 20, 2019
4 Stars
New to me author and I’ll be reading more of this series. I wasn’t really aware it was in a series but I Happy it is. The characters are believable and strong. The setting was really good. Wish there was some resolution with Gerard ...and that whole thing seemed a bit off, but overall I really liked the plot.
New to me author and I’ll be reading more of this series. I wasn’t really aware it was in a series but I Happy it is. The characters are believable and strong. The setting was really good. Wish there was some resolution with Gerard ...and that whole thing seemed a bit off, but overall I really liked the plot.
January 11, 2019
I absolutely loved this story! Gemma and Ryker journey started out as a friendship to some heartache to a blossoming love! So enjoying this Only You series looking forward to more!
January 3, 2019
First 5 star of 2019! I LOVE ELLES BOOKS! This ARC had me SWOONING. Ryker? He has my heart. Oh my word. Gemma & Rykers chemistry was incredible! Loved every freaking minute of this book. Must read for sure.
February 1, 2019
Her life altered from the tender age of ten. Her mobility changed forever. Feet replaced with wheels.
She suffered at his hands terribly as a child. His outburst in the heat of the moment resulted in years of bullying.
He stole her smile, lightness and laughter and she was glad when he left.
But now he's returned and is looking at her once again.
Her fathers aiming health means there's a job going on the farm. Unfortunately only one person applies for the position..
Can the past be left behind or will it always be a problem for them?
I absolutely adored this read! it's very unique and brings so much emotion to the table. Beautiful!
Gemma is a little spitfire on wheels. I loved her spunk and determination. She's a force to be reckoned with whether she knows it or not!
Adam is the guy who is haunted by his past, and wishes he could change what he did. Hes full of pain and guilt, but underneath that there's so much more to him.
They make for quite the couple!
Life isn't about material products and this book to me highlights it. Their love is raw, it's real and it's all consuming. Nothing else matters.
Another rivetting read by Elle Thorpe. She gets better and better with each book I read of hers!
Cant wait to see whats next!
She suffered at his hands terribly as a child. His outburst in the heat of the moment resulted in years of bullying.
He stole her smile, lightness and laughter and she was glad when he left.
But now he's returned and is looking at her once again.
Her fathers aiming health means there's a job going on the farm. Unfortunately only one person applies for the position..
Can the past be left behind or will it always be a problem for them?
I absolutely adored this read! it's very unique and brings so much emotion to the table. Beautiful!
Gemma is a little spitfire on wheels. I loved her spunk and determination. She's a force to be reckoned with whether she knows it or not!
Adam is the guy who is haunted by his past, and wishes he could change what he did. Hes full of pain and guilt, but underneath that there's so much more to him.
They make for quite the couple!
Life isn't about material products and this book to me highlights it. Their love is raw, it's real and it's all consuming. Nothing else matters.
Another rivetting read by Elle Thorpe. She gets better and better with each book I read of hers!
Cant wait to see whats next!
January 27, 2019
Oh My, this series just keeps getting better and better. I have to admit ever since I read Reese’s story and met her little sister, Gemma, I was hoping she would get her own story. I must say the author not only gave us Gemma’s story, it was so much more that I hoping for. The characters are strong, independent and know their own minds. The storyline has it all: drama, suspense, romance, and so much more.
Gemma and Ryker grew up as neighbors and best friends. Well that is right up to the first day of high school, that regrettable day that Ryker turned on her in front of the kids at school. From that day, she was bullied about her wheelchair something that continued throughout her high school years. Gemma grew to hate Ryker for his actions, their friendship lost. The story begins several years after they graduate. Due to her father’s illness Gemma steps up to run the horse farm. But they all know she needs help and put out ads for help. Ryker is back in town and answers the ad for the job. He has problems and demons of his own, and he needs the room and board more than Gemma knows. Gemma doesn’t want him there but know she need him so gives him the job.
What happens as these two have to see each other everyday? Does Ryker have an explanation for that horrible day, will Gemma even listen? Can these two ever get back the friendship and connection they once had? This such an amazing read. It will have you smiling, tearing up and hoping for any type of a happy ending. 2 Thumbs up and 5 Amazing stars for Only the Negative.
Gemma and Ryker grew up as neighbors and best friends. Well that is right up to the first day of high school, that regrettable day that Ryker turned on her in front of the kids at school. From that day, she was bullied about her wheelchair something that continued throughout her high school years. Gemma grew to hate Ryker for his actions, their friendship lost. The story begins several years after they graduate. Due to her father’s illness Gemma steps up to run the horse farm. But they all know she needs help and put out ads for help. Ryker is back in town and answers the ad for the job. He has problems and demons of his own, and he needs the room and board more than Gemma knows. Gemma doesn’t want him there but know she need him so gives him the job.
What happens as these two have to see each other everyday? Does Ryker have an explanation for that horrible day, will Gemma even listen? Can these two ever get back the friendship and connection they once had? This such an amazing read. It will have you smiling, tearing up and hoping for any type of a happy ending. 2 Thumbs up and 5 Amazing stars for Only the Negative.
November 4, 2019
Wow!
Ok so I’ve been with this series for a bit now and I didn’t know how I’d like such an intense time jump but holy ish it worked. And for people who aren’t familiar with the series and read this as their first off (it’s totally possible to do so) it felt just as fresh and open and new as book one did. Seriously all the stars. This pairing were everything, sweet and sometime stupid but passionate and loving and just, seriously everything.
Ok so I’ve been with this series for a bit now and I didn’t know how I’d like such an intense time jump but holy ish it worked. And for people who aren’t familiar with the series and read this as their first off (it’s totally possible to do so) it felt just as fresh and open and new as book one did. Seriously all the stars. This pairing were everything, sweet and sometime stupid but passionate and loving and just, seriously everything.
January 30, 2019
Elle has done it again and created another brilliant book for the Only You series! I think Only The Negatives is my favourite so far! Why? Gemma, the heroine of the story, she is so likeable and inspiring, she is determined, independent and doesn't let anything stop her.
This novel is an enemies to lovers story and is set 10 years on from the previous books in the series. Gemma we met briefly in Only The Positives as the younger sister of Reese. Gemma suffered a spinal injury after a riding accident at their families livery, leaving her wheelchair bound. One thing I loved about this book is that Gemma is such a strong female so determined to live her life to the best of her ability, to not let her non functional legs hold her back, and for people to see her and not her chair. This message shone throughout the book in so many ways!
Adam Ryker is the Hero of the story, a guy from Gemma's past that started as a childhood friend, who she later begun to despise when Ryker was the reason Gemma's high school years were a living hell as a result of bullying. When Ryker turns up out of the blue in Gemma's life she wants nothing to do with him; but he is determined to make Gemma see things through his eyes, to prove to her he regrets it all and perhaps things weren't always as they seemed.
Gemma and Ryker's love hate relationship at the start of the book was fantastic, it amped up the chemistry and my curiosity level. I adored Gemma from the start and it didn't take long to realise I was going to love Ryker too. He is a guy that has penchant for making the bad decisions with a true heart and the best of intentions behind them. However most seem to have long lasting consequences, some coming back to haunt him.
Only the negatives is a well paced and wonderfully written novel, that was a joy to read. The central characters were likable, you wanted them to succeed and right their wrongs, plus seeing characters I loved from the rest of the series 10 years on was a nice bonus. I particularly enjoyed reading Ryker's POV of how events throughout his and Gemma's non-friendship stayed with him. Moments Gemma didn't realise he was there; but he was supporting her, caring for her, loving her before either of them knew how special they were to each other. I feel that Ryker and Gemma enhance each other and a Elle wrote two half's of a whole here.
One thing I admire about Elle's writing is that she inserts elements in her novels that are very seldom seen in romance, utilising them in a way that enhances her characters and the story, in an empowering and motivational way. So I cannot wait to see what Bianca and Riley are going to bring next!
This novel is an enemies to lovers story and is set 10 years on from the previous books in the series. Gemma we met briefly in Only The Positives as the younger sister of Reese. Gemma suffered a spinal injury after a riding accident at their families livery, leaving her wheelchair bound. One thing I loved about this book is that Gemma is such a strong female so determined to live her life to the best of her ability, to not let her non functional legs hold her back, and for people to see her and not her chair. This message shone throughout the book in so many ways!
Adam Ryker is the Hero of the story, a guy from Gemma's past that started as a childhood friend, who she later begun to despise when Ryker was the reason Gemma's high school years were a living hell as a result of bullying. When Ryker turns up out of the blue in Gemma's life she wants nothing to do with him; but he is determined to make Gemma see things through his eyes, to prove to her he regrets it all and perhaps things weren't always as they seemed.
Gemma and Ryker's love hate relationship at the start of the book was fantastic, it amped up the chemistry and my curiosity level. I adored Gemma from the start and it didn't take long to realise I was going to love Ryker too. He is a guy that has penchant for making the bad decisions with a true heart and the best of intentions behind them. However most seem to have long lasting consequences, some coming back to haunt him.
Only the negatives is a well paced and wonderfully written novel, that was a joy to read. The central characters were likable, you wanted them to succeed and right their wrongs, plus seeing characters I loved from the rest of the series 10 years on was a nice bonus. I particularly enjoyed reading Ryker's POV of how events throughout his and Gemma's non-friendship stayed with him. Moments Gemma didn't realise he was there; but he was supporting her, caring for her, loving her before either of them knew how special they were to each other. I feel that Ryker and Gemma enhance each other and a Elle wrote two half's of a whole here.
One thing I admire about Elle's writing is that she inserts elements in her novels that are very seldom seen in romance, utilising them in a way that enhances her characters and the story, in an empowering and motivational way. So I cannot wait to see what Bianca and Riley are going to bring next!
January 1, 2019
*** 4.5 Stars ***
Only the Negatives (Only You #3) by Elle Thorpe is contemporary romance told in dual POV featuring a strong heroine who is a paraplegic and the boy responsible for making her high school years a living hell. In a way, it is a second chance, friends to enemies to friends to lovers story. Although this is the third book in the series, it can be read as a standalone; but I'd recommend reading the previous books. All the books are good and the characters make appearances in each others' stories.
When her father had a stroke, the last person Gemma ever expected to offer to help was Ryker, but he just showed up out of nowhere in her time of need. She didn't want anything to do with him. She didn't want to hire him either, but she really had no other choice. With her father recovering, there was no way she'd be able to keep up with all the work on the family farm.
Ryker has made some pretty big mistakes, but his biggest regret was the mistake that ruined Gemma's high school experience and their friendship. When he returns home after being away for four years, he sets out to make things right. Ryker doesn't blame Gemma for hating him. He deserves it. But he's determined to make it up to her. Will she give him a chance? Could she ever forgive him for the pain he caused?
I really enjoyed Gemma and Ryker's story. They were both wonderful characters, very likeable and relatable. Gemma was strong and independent. I loved the fact that her disability did not prevent her from living a full life and being a role model to the children she worked with. Ryker was sweet and hard working. His desire to right his wrongs and to help those in need was honorable.
So far, I have read and enjoyed every book in this series, and this one was no exception. In fact, I think each book just keeps getting better. Gemma and Ryker's love story was beautiful, charming, engaging, touching, and poignant. I loved it!
*** I voluntarily read and reviewed an ARC. ***
Only the Negatives (Only You #3) by Elle Thorpe is contemporary romance told in dual POV featuring a strong heroine who is a paraplegic and the boy responsible for making her high school years a living hell. In a way, it is a second chance, friends to enemies to friends to lovers story. Although this is the third book in the series, it can be read as a standalone; but I'd recommend reading the previous books. All the books are good and the characters make appearances in each others' stories.
When her father had a stroke, the last person Gemma ever expected to offer to help was Ryker, but he just showed up out of nowhere in her time of need. She didn't want anything to do with him. She didn't want to hire him either, but she really had no other choice. With her father recovering, there was no way she'd be able to keep up with all the work on the family farm.
Ryker has made some pretty big mistakes, but his biggest regret was the mistake that ruined Gemma's high school experience and their friendship. When he returns home after being away for four years, he sets out to make things right. Ryker doesn't blame Gemma for hating him. He deserves it. But he's determined to make it up to her. Will she give him a chance? Could she ever forgive him for the pain he caused?
I really enjoyed Gemma and Ryker's story. They were both wonderful characters, very likeable and relatable. Gemma was strong and independent. I loved the fact that her disability did not prevent her from living a full life and being a role model to the children she worked with. Ryker was sweet and hard working. His desire to right his wrongs and to help those in need was honorable.
So far, I have read and enjoyed every book in this series, and this one was no exception. In fact, I think each book just keeps getting better. Gemma and Ryker's love story was beautiful, charming, engaging, touching, and poignant. I loved it!
*** I voluntarily read and reviewed an ARC. ***
January 28, 2019
It feels much longer since I first read Elle Thorpe’s debut book, Only The Positive, in September last year. She has grown in leaps and bounds since then, her writing only getting better with each successive book. Now on her 3rd book of the ‘Only You’ series and it’s time for Gemma and Ryker’s story.
We first met a younger version of Gemma briefly in her sister Reece’s book Only The Positive, but here we get to met her as a grown-up. Ten years have passed since that time and although Gemma still lives and works on her parents farm, she longs to get ‘out there’ on her own. But, even though that’s what she wants, she lacks confidence in her abilities to be able to care for herself alone.
When Adam Ryker comes back into her life, working on the farm, she wants nothing to do with him. He was once her friend in high school, but then he did a despicable thing and it left it’s indelible mark on Gemma’s soul.
Adam knows he made a mistake all those years ago. He wants to make it up to Gemma but she’s not going to make it easy for him.
I loved watching this tentative relationship as it flourished into a true connection, one that could last a lifetime. Elle has a true grasp on the emotions of her characters and her words flow beautifully across the page. For an author who work spans less than six months in publishing, this is a real feat of accomplishment.
If you’re new to Elle, make sure to pick up Only The Positive first, before diving in Only The Negative. It’s not totally necessary but will give you some insight into the background of this amazing, heartwarming story.
And of course, it needs to be said. I can’t wait to read Bianca and Riley’s story. They’ve been secondary characters since the beginning, so it’s about time for them to shine.
We first met a younger version of Gemma briefly in her sister Reece’s book Only The Positive, but here we get to met her as a grown-up. Ten years have passed since that time and although Gemma still lives and works on her parents farm, she longs to get ‘out there’ on her own. But, even though that’s what she wants, she lacks confidence in her abilities to be able to care for herself alone.
When Adam Ryker comes back into her life, working on the farm, she wants nothing to do with him. He was once her friend in high school, but then he did a despicable thing and it left it’s indelible mark on Gemma’s soul.
Adam knows he made a mistake all those years ago. He wants to make it up to Gemma but she’s not going to make it easy for him.
I loved watching this tentative relationship as it flourished into a true connection, one that could last a lifetime. Elle has a true grasp on the emotions of her characters and her words flow beautifully across the page. For an author who work spans less than six months in publishing, this is a real feat of accomplishment.
If you’re new to Elle, make sure to pick up Only The Positive first, before diving in Only The Negative. It’s not totally necessary but will give you some insight into the background of this amazing, heartwarming story.
And of course, it needs to be said. I can’t wait to read Bianca and Riley’s story. They’ve been secondary characters since the beginning, so it’s about time for them to shine.
January 4, 2019
Only the Negative is book 3 in the Only You series, touching on a subject that would have not being easy to write; one thing I have learnt from reading Thorpe’s books is that she does not take the easy way out she pushes herself and that shows in her writing.
Gemma’s family means everything to her and after her father has a stroke she will do anything to save the business her father built even if that means working with the man that made her life a living hell through high school. Adam has made some big mistakes and the first and foremost was the way he threw Gemma to the wolves all those years ago, with an opportunity to fix his wrongs and his own life he starts the healing process never giving up. When someone from his past shows up, he is left with no choice but to fix his mistake even if that means that he could lose his own happily ever after.
Gemma’s story is not an easy one, she has been through more than anyone should; she is strong and independent. Adam may wear the award for most mistakes but he works hard and his feeling for Gemma never falter, continuing to fix all the errors of his ways.
I personally really enjoyed this book, Thorpe continues to prove that no plot is beyond her reach crossing her T’s and dotting her I’s on everything she does. While this book can be read as a standalone, I highly recommend that you go back and read all of the series, you get to meet some of the characters that appear in this book and find out everyone’s stories.
I cannot wait for more from this series !!
**Reviewed for Seraphim Book Reviews**
Ratings;
Plot: 5/5
Characters: 5/5
Heat: 5/5
Writing Style: 5/5
Overall: 5/5
Gemma’s family means everything to her and after her father has a stroke she will do anything to save the business her father built even if that means working with the man that made her life a living hell through high school. Adam has made some big mistakes and the first and foremost was the way he threw Gemma to the wolves all those years ago, with an opportunity to fix his wrongs and his own life he starts the healing process never giving up. When someone from his past shows up, he is left with no choice but to fix his mistake even if that means that he could lose his own happily ever after.
Gemma’s story is not an easy one, she has been through more than anyone should; she is strong and independent. Adam may wear the award for most mistakes but he works hard and his feeling for Gemma never falter, continuing to fix all the errors of his ways.
I personally really enjoyed this book, Thorpe continues to prove that no plot is beyond her reach crossing her T’s and dotting her I’s on everything she does. While this book can be read as a standalone, I highly recommend that you go back and read all of the series, you get to meet some of the characters that appear in this book and find out everyone’s stories.
I cannot wait for more from this series !!
**Reviewed for Seraphim Book Reviews**
Ratings;
Plot: 5/5
Characters: 5/5
Heat: 5/5
Writing Style: 5/5
Overall: 5/5
January 30, 2019
3.75 ⭐️
Once again, Elle delivers a unique story, this time giving us a disabled heroine. Elle always seems to create storylines no else does.
An enemies to lovers romance.
An emotional read that is heart-breaking but also touching, Gemma blames Ryker for her school hell so when he returns after not seeing him for 4 years she is far from willing to forgive. But after some sad family news he may just be the only person she can rely on because he is the only one offering his help. These two re-form an unlikely friendship before the pull becomes too strong to ignore and it’s not long before second chances are given because feelings have grown too deep.
Prepare to swoon all over Ryker – he is so Gentle, caring, supportive and loving.
This story proves a disability doesn’t define who a person is. It shows how unkind words and negativity can affect someone, how much just 1 word can knock someone down, knock their confidence and self-doubt themselves. How someone else’s actions can have a knock on effect to another person.
How unexpected events can turn your life upside down finding yourself at a low and going to desperate measures to find a way out.
Gemma is an inspirational character, she shows it takes a stronger person to get back up from been kicked down, she shows never to give up on your dreams, keep believing, be willing to make changes to succeed.
She doesn’t allow her disability to dictate her life.
Once again, Elle delivers a unique story, this time giving us a disabled heroine. Elle always seems to create storylines no else does.
An enemies to lovers romance.
An emotional read that is heart-breaking but also touching, Gemma blames Ryker for her school hell so when he returns after not seeing him for 4 years she is far from willing to forgive. But after some sad family news he may just be the only person she can rely on because he is the only one offering his help. These two re-form an unlikely friendship before the pull becomes too strong to ignore and it’s not long before second chances are given because feelings have grown too deep.
Prepare to swoon all over Ryker – he is so Gentle, caring, supportive and loving.
This story proves a disability doesn’t define who a person is. It shows how unkind words and negativity can affect someone, how much just 1 word can knock someone down, knock their confidence and self-doubt themselves. How someone else’s actions can have a knock on effect to another person.
How unexpected events can turn your life upside down finding yourself at a low and going to desperate measures to find a way out.
Gemma is an inspirational character, she shows it takes a stronger person to get back up from been kicked down, she shows never to give up on your dreams, keep believing, be willing to make changes to succeed.
She doesn’t allow her disability to dictate her life.
August 27, 2019
I got this on kindle unlimited on a whim, the blurb dragged me in, second chance love stories usually do, I'm thankful I gave this one a chance.
Ryker, at the beginning I wanted to hate him on Gemma's behalf but as I got to know him and the stories behind his actions more, I realised he wasn't just a man full of ego, he was misunderstood, he wasn't perfect, he made mistakes but one thing was for sure he couldn't stay away from Gemma
Gemma, a strong independent female who is stubborn hard working a little trapped at her home farm teaching how to ride horses and she has a wheelchair, I love that it wasn't the main focus of the story and that it made her no less of her own heroine. She was desperately stubborn about doing things for herself, not being treated differently and the way the author wrote about her true passion made me really feel it just through the way she described the characters actions, feelings around it.
Gemma had a lot of prejudice to face as a photographer and being in a wheelchair but she doesn't limit herself she is capable and she believes in herself, she's just a little lonely until she reconnects with Ryker.
Overall I enjoyed this book, it touched some usual taboo subjects, was a sweet charming slow burn love story not an insta-love story which I'm grateful for, it made for very easy sweet reading.
Ryker, at the beginning I wanted to hate him on Gemma's behalf but as I got to know him and the stories behind his actions more, I realised he wasn't just a man full of ego, he was misunderstood, he wasn't perfect, he made mistakes but one thing was for sure he couldn't stay away from Gemma
Gemma, a strong independent female who is stubborn hard working a little trapped at her home farm teaching how to ride horses and she has a wheelchair, I love that it wasn't the main focus of the story and that it made her no less of her own heroine. She was desperately stubborn about doing things for herself, not being treated differently and the way the author wrote about her true passion made me really feel it just through the way she described the characters actions, feelings around it.
Gemma had a lot of prejudice to face as a photographer and being in a wheelchair but she doesn't limit herself she is capable and she believes in herself, she's just a little lonely until she reconnects with Ryker.
Overall I enjoyed this book, it touched some usual taboo subjects, was a sweet charming slow burn love story not an insta-love story which I'm grateful for, it made for very easy sweet reading.
May 13, 2020
I could not put this story down.
With limited sleep, I got thru my day at work to finish reading the love story between two really well written characters.
The author is new to me and I was lucky enough to be given this story and am freely giving my honest review.
Elle Thorpe’s story “Only the Negative” is about the leading lady in a wheelchair and having to confront all her feelings of bullying in school. Not my usually go-to story. In fact, I absolutely dislike stories that have or reflect on bullying. The write up seemed to intrigue me enough and a favorite author had her on their own site. I decided to try it. I am so pleased I did.
The story flowed, there was enough reflecting on what she dealt with but didn’t have her stuck in the past, it didn’t drag it out, and the dual opinions was perfect.
The best thing was it was believable!
He wasn’t a bully and really he wasn’t a bad guy at all. A mistake made by Ryker caused a real bully to put his attention on Gemma.
It seemed to really represent a positive strength of a person who uses a wheelchair. She wasn’t weak, she didn’t break when faced with a challenge or struggle, and she knew enough of her own self that she was an equal in the story.
Absolutely loved it!
Found and bought the “Only You” 5 book series so I continue to follow this author.
With limited sleep, I got thru my day at work to finish reading the love story between two really well written characters.
The author is new to me and I was lucky enough to be given this story and am freely giving my honest review.
Elle Thorpe’s story “Only the Negative” is about the leading lady in a wheelchair and having to confront all her feelings of bullying in school. Not my usually go-to story. In fact, I absolutely dislike stories that have or reflect on bullying. The write up seemed to intrigue me enough and a favorite author had her on their own site. I decided to try it. I am so pleased I did.
The story flowed, there was enough reflecting on what she dealt with but didn’t have her stuck in the past, it didn’t drag it out, and the dual opinions was perfect.
The best thing was it was believable!
He wasn’t a bully and really he wasn’t a bad guy at all. A mistake made by Ryker caused a real bully to put his attention on Gemma.
It seemed to really represent a positive strength of a person who uses a wheelchair. She wasn’t weak, she didn’t break when faced with a challenge or struggle, and she knew enough of her own self that she was an equal in the story.
Absolutely loved it!
Found and bought the “Only You” 5 book series so I continue to follow this author.
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