I went into this book expecting a nice, sweet romance that was easy to read and a great way to pass an afternoon. What I actually got was a book that was filled with so much emotion and depth that it completely took me by surprise. This book is well written with some brilliant characters right at its center. The overall story was really well written. It catches the readers attention straight away and takes you on the journey with the characters. These are the kind of ones that you root for and want them to find their happy ending. I thoroughly enjoyed this book and I am looking forward to the next one.
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Kerry Bakerhttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngKerry Baker2023-05-10 09:48:542023-05-12 13:40:15Raising Elle (Sweet Valley Series Book 1) by S.E Reichert – Review by Kerry Baker
I am still reeling from this heart-wrenching and steamy second-chance romance. Elle has been through so much heartache and so much pain. Blake has been drowning all his pain for a long time. Domestic violence is a tough thing to read about and knowing that women find themselves in scary horrible situations where they are convinced no one loves them and nothing can save them, is horrible. Coming home to her family, who welcome her with open arms and finding a purpose sets Elle on a path of healing. I cannot wait for S.E. Reichert to publish the next story in the series!
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Daree Blakehttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngDaree Blake2023-05-09 08:58:232023-05-12 13:38:52Raising Elle (Sweet Valley Series Book 1) by S.E Reichert – Review by Daree Blake
This was a super hard book to read. It’s not at all what I expected but I did finish it and I’m glad that I did. However, the subject matter is difficult and the language is super strong, neither of which I was thinking this book would include.
Elle Sullivan has had a horrible six years. She’s been through situations that no person should ever experience. She’s back home now and is looking forward to fixing up her grandma’s ranch, not realizing all that goes into being a rancher.
Blake O’Conner is a loser who’s lost everything, including himself. He’s been in the bottom of a bottle for quite some time now and has burned a lot of bridges. No one wants him around and he’s run out of chances. That is, until Elle comes back to town.
This is a story of redemption and forgiveness, a story of lost loves and a loss of self. New beginnings are welcome here. Overall, a decent read, but as previously mentioned, a hard one to read. This book will not be for everyone and I honestly almost gave up on it due to the content.
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Julie Johnsonhttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngJulie Johnson2023-05-08 22:19:502023-05-12 13:29:56Raising Elle (Sweet Valley Series Book 1) by S.E Reichert – Review by Julie Johnson
When Elle Sullivan comes back to Sweet Valley she’s bruised and hiding a big secret, but she’s determined to start her life over and prove to herself she’s strong and able to do anything. She wasn’t expecting to run in to her old high school love Blake O’Connor, nor was she expecting to find that healing takes a whole lot of more work than she could’ve expected.
I chose this 100% because the title was punny. This book was great! There is definitely a trigger warning for Domestic Abuse and I’d toss one in for Eating Disorders as well, although I’d say it’s related to the abuse. It was well written and despite some hard stuff was entertaining and funny in places.
Elle is a strong woman who is ready to start over back home. She got out, a little later than she wanted, but she is a survivor.
Blake has hit rock bottom and can’t seem to dig himself out alone. Thank god for old friendships and the healing of love.
The characters were fun and their story is heartbreaking and heartwarming all at once. I definitely recommend reading this and I’m excited to see more from Sweet Valley.
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Tia Martelhttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngTia Martel2023-05-08 20:25:562023-05-12 13:29:00Raising Elle (Sweet Valley Series Book 1) by S.E Reichert – Review by Tia Martel
Raising Elle by S.E. Reichert is the first book in the Sweet Valley series. I found this book to be a wonderful read. Elle and Blake, the main character really pull you into the book with the emotions and complexity to them both. There are elements to this story that may trigger some but for me it was not as issue. Elle comes home with a secret that she wants to hide, when she runs into her first love, Blake. She is home to heal but she now sees what leaving has done to Blake. She wants to ease his pain, but what they both learn along the way will help them with forgiveness, love, and a peace they each need. This was the first book I read by this author and I was not disappointed. The trauma, the emotions, the characters are simply what draws you into this book and I can not wait to read more of this series and the author.
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Heidi Eich Woodringhttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngHeidi Eich Woodring2023-05-05 20:36:372023-05-12 13:03:35Raising Elle Sweet Valley Book 1 Review By Heidi Woodring
This is the first book in The Sweet Valley series by S.E. Reichert. You will fall in love with all the characters especially Elle and Blake. So full of depth and raw emotion. A great love story written so beautifully, but definitely some triggers. Push threw them if you can, you won’t be disappointed.
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Toni Sellershttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngToni Sellers2023-05-04 21:45:132023-05-12 12:56:47Raising Elle (Sweet Valley Series Book 1) by S.E Reichert – Review by Toni Sellers
Hang on to your hats here folk because this story packs an emotional wallop. It depicts topics that are quite graphic and confronting – especially for those with triggers. So be aware of that before embarking on this raw second chance romance. Raising Elle is the first book in The Sweet Valley Series by S.E. Reichert. And as I mentioned, it will break your heart, then put the pieces back together again. It is a wonderful small town, second chance, western romance with cowboys, ranching, challenges, hardship, secrets, family, friendship, pain, emotion, forgiveness, hope, and the healing power of love. Elle’s return to her hometown has been a long time coming. But she has been harboring a huge secret and hopes this move can be the fresh start she desperately needs. But what happens when she encounters her old high school sweetheart, Blake? With unresolved feeling still simmering between them- things take a bit of a complicated turn. What happens makes for a heartfelt read. What a great start to this new series. Bring on Book #2! Happy Reading…
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Angela Hayeshttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngAngela Hayes2023-05-02 23:43:212023-05-03 14:11:33Raising Elle (Sweet Valley Series Book #1) by S.E Reichert – Review by Angela Hayes
This is the first book in this series and what a great start it is. I can’t wait to see what is next in this series. This is a newer author for me which I enjoyed how they pulled me into the story from the start. The characters are engaging and add to the entertainment value of the story. A fast paced story that is hard to put down. A story where wounds are deep but so is forgiveness. A second chance romance that brings emotion and healing. I enjoyed watching the growth of the characters as well as their chemistry. I found myself hoping that Elle and Blake would find their second chance. You don’t want to miss what happens with them. I highly recommend this book.
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Bobbi Wagnerhttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngBobbi Wagner2023-05-02 17:18:132023-05-03 14:05:43Raising Elle (Sweet Valley Series Book 1) by S.E Reichert – Review by Bobbi Wagner
A heartwarming and at times heartbreaking second chance at love, western style romance, which kept me hooked throughout. When Elle Sullivan returns to her hometown, Sweet Valley in Wyoming, she’s bruised both physically and emotionally and is hiding a big secret. Elle is tough and a survivor who’s determined to start her life again, and take back her power! She joins her family in trying to save their small horse ranch and in the process runs into Blake O’Connor, her old high school sweetheart. Blake never got over loosing Elle and his life spiralled out of control and he started drinking heavily. Seeing Elle again and helping her fix up her family’s ranch is also a new beginning for him. As the couple work together they discover they still have the same chemistry they used to, and tentatively begin to find love again and start to heal their wounds. The storyline is a difficult read at times as it does tackle some sensitive issues, which could be triggers for some. However, although it’s an emotional rollercoaster of a read, it’s also a wonderfully written inspirational story full of second chances, healing, family, love and romance. It’s an immersive and engaging story with great characters, who along with the setting have been brought vividly to life by the descriptive narrative.
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Jennifer Gordonhttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngJennifer Gordon2023-05-02 16:50:222023-05-03 13:58:10Raising Elle (Sweet Valley Series Book 1) by S.E Reichert – Review by Jennifer Gordon
First, I need to mention trigger warnings – this book is not for everyone as it contains graphic descriptions of domestic violence (and the aftermath) and addiction. If you are comfortable with reading about these topics though, reading this book is worth it.
This is the first book in the Sweet Valley series, and it is beautifully written. The topics of domestic violence and addiction are described in graphic detail at times, but it is clear that the author has taken great care to represent these topics as accurately as possible, whilst also being respectful.
There are elements of Elle’s situation which make her relatable to me. It took a great deal of strength for her to leave her situation behind and try to move on with her life and she only grows in strength as the story processes. Blake is another great character fighting his own issues. He too is a strong character trying to better himself. They are both fighting their own demons but manage to come back together for a potential second chance at love. What I love about this pair is that they are both flawed, their isn’t one perfect character swooping in the save the other. They both grow over the course of the story and by the end have shown genuine character development.
I certainly got emotionally invested in this story, and am very glad I read it. I look forward to what book 2 holds, I just hope I don’t have to wait too long for its release!
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Rebecahttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngRebeca2023-05-02 16:20:442023-05-03 13:58:56Raising Elle (Sweet Valley Series Book 1) by S.E Reichert – Review by Rebeca Elliott Figueiras
4.5 stars Beware this story has elements that my cause triggers for some. Raising Elle is a second chance western romance story. It is the first book in the Sweet Valley Series that promises to be a great reads. With a lot of hard themes being addressed it is sometimes tough going to get through all at once. I had to walk away and come back at times. It is an emotional read that is full of pain and suffering and heartbreak and heartache that is palpable. I fell in love with the characters Elle and Blake who have so much depth to them that you just want to pick them up and make it all better for them. They each have their own torment and suffering. Elle returns to her hometown to heal and start her life over. Not realising the affect her leaving had on her childhood sweetheart she offers a chance to heal his soul. It is a chance for new beginnings and finally finding peace. I am not going to share any more you need to read it for yourself. I mean who doesn’t love a good cowboy story. Bring on the next book!
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Jenni Bishophttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngJenni Bishop2023-05-02 15:48:072023-05-03 13:57:42Raising Elle (Sweet Valley Series Book 1) by S.E Reichert – Review by Jenni Bishop
Raising Elle (Sweet Valley Series Book 1) by S.E Reichert. This is such a sweet read I guess the series name Sweet Valley is appropriate! Its the story of Elle who grew up in Sweet Valley and left as soon as she could. She left behind her hometown and the guy who was in love with her Blake. Blake thought he wasn’t good enough for her so he let her go. Leaving was not a good thing for Elle. Her husband was not good for her and when her family calls asking her to come home to help with their horse ranch she runs home. The life she was living in LA was hard on her, emotionally and physically so coming home was a blessing. Even though it was hard to see her family and Blake. Blake is a broken man when she sees him. He’s got a lot of problems and he thinks Elle is enough to straighten up for. This second chance romance is full of hardships and sadness but also happiness. Do yourself a favor and read this sweet story.
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Tausha Treadwayhttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngTausha Treadway2023-05-02 14:26:372023-05-03 13:56:57Raising Elle (Sweet Valley Series Book 1) by S.E Reichert – Review by Tausha Treadway
Elle Sullivan returns to her hometown of Sweet Valley in the hopes of leaving the life she lived in LA behind her. She returns to her family home battered, bruised, and holding tightly to secrets of the lifestyle she left behind. Feeling frightened and alone, Elle is unsure what reaction to expect from her family that she has not spoken to in years. When her family welcome her home with open arms, she feels relieved, but is still nervous and on edge as she flees her past life. Elle is determined to get a fresh start, so she pushes her fear to the side, puts on a brave face, and throws herself into helping her family fix up the family ranch.
What Elle did not count on facing was her childhood sweetheart, Blake, still living in Sweet Valley. When she runs into him immediately after returning home old feelings start to surface. Blake is just as surprised to see Elle and is forced to come to terms with his feelings for the girl he never got over. After Elle left, Blake’s life started to spiral downwards, and when she returned, he had finally hit rock bottom. When Elle needs help around the ranch fixing it up, she offers Blake the chance to help her. She feels that this will give him the chance to sober up and start getting his life back on track. In the process, Elle, and Blake work together to help one another get their lives back and build a brighter future.
Warning, this has some sensitive subject matter and may cause triggers. It also has some strong language that may offend some. As a survivor of domestic violence this book was a hard read for me. It had a lot of triggers and dredged up some painful memories of my own past with my abuser.
As hard as it was to read about what Elle had gone through it was truly inspiring to see how courageous she was as she pushed through her fears and trauma. Moving forward after abuse is hard to do and there is always a part of you that feels scared and vulnerable. It is difficult to face those fears head-on and push through them so that you can create a better life for yourself. I appreciate how difficult this was for not only Elle, but for Blake as well. Facing the demons of your past like Elle and Blake had to do is scary and requires inner strength and courage that you do not even realize you have.
I loved Elle’s family and the love they had for one another. It was heartwarming to see how they stood together no matter what. It pulled on my heartstrings when her family embraced Elle with open arms even after years without speaking. They were there for her, no questions asked, and without judgement. That brought tears to my eyes and truly moved me. Even the way the small community was so close-knit, and all pulled together was truly inspiring. This was a beautiful read full of gut-wrenching emotions and hard topics like domestic violence and alcoholism. The author did a good job of writing about these sensitive topics and making the characters relatable.
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Tara Johnson Barneshttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngTara Johnson Barnes2023-05-02 13:02:112023-05-03 13:56:18Raising Elle (Sweet Valley Series Book 1) by S.E Reichert – Review by Tara Johnson Barnes
I don’t have enough praise for this book. I loved Raising Elle. A story of a battered woman coming home and trying to get her life together without looking over her shoulder but her secret is big. Amazing storyline, my favorite is when the secret comes out. You never know with parsnips.
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Tonya Merritthttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngTonya Merritt2023-05-02 08:56:542023-05-03 14:02:14Raising Elle (Sweet Valley Series Book 1) by S.E Reichert – Review by Tonya Merritt
Even with the serious challenges faced in this second=chance romance, Elle and Blake find their way back to each other. What makes this story to endearing and heartwrenching is the work they both put into it. I felt every moment and emotion of the pain they felt. Their story of second=chance romance is one worth reading. There are touch topics but it’s worth charging through. Love is hard and their are many blockades. The author did a fantastic job of making this story relatable through her writing with the the characters, the plot and the overall tone of the book. I would love to see more with Elle’s sisters finding their loves.
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Shelly Kittellhttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngShelly Kittell2023-05-02 06:16:042023-05-03 14:01:29Raising Elle (Sweet Valley Series Book 1) by S.E Reichert – Review by Shelly Kittell
Sullivan comes back to her hometown, Sweet Valley, Wyoming, bruised to hell and hiding a big secret.
Determined to start her life over, she embarks on a journey to take back her power and help her family save their small horse ranch. But running into her old high school sweetheart, Blake O’Connor, reminds her that no road to success is easy. Raising Elle is a journey through hardships and forgiveness, and all the ways love heals even the deepest wounds.
Sarah Reichert (S.E. Reichert) is a novelist, poet, and blogger. She owns and operates The Beautiful Stuff Blog, a website for writing advice, poetry, and inspiration for living a more balanced, realistic life.
Currently, she is a full-time mom of two creative and talented teenage girls, and a full-time writer of both fiction and poetry. She is a terrible cat wrangler and her rescue pit bull steals all her cookies. Her garden is passionately planted every spring, and quietly neglected for most of the summer, in favor of getting lost in the wild gardens of the Rocky Mountains.
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/RaisingElleEbookCoverUse.jpg1200800itsybitsybookbitshttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngitsybitsybookbits2023-05-02 00:02:142023-05-22 23:31:27Raising Elle (Sweet Valley Series Book 1) by S.E Reichert
Sullivan comes back to her hometown, Sweet Valley, Wyoming, bruised to hell and hiding a big secret.
Determined to start her life over, she embarks on a journey to take back her power and help her family save their small horse ranch. But running into her old high school sweetheart, Blake O’Connor, reminds her that no road to success is easy. Raising Elle is a journey through hardships and forgiveness, and all the ways love heals even the deepest wounds.
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/SE-REICHERT-RAISING-ELLE-PREORDER.png750750itsybitsybookbitshttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngitsybitsybookbits2023-04-25 00:02:122023-05-22 23:31:57❦~ლ~❧~ღ PREORDER ღ~❧~ლ~❦ Raising Elle (Sweet Valley Series Book 1) by S.E Reichert
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