What do you think?
Rate this book
Harlow
"The plot twists are genuinely surprising, and the complicated relationships give this page-turner a touch of humor and a ton of drama." -KIRKUS REVIEW
Terms of Surrender is a story about when coming of age arrives late.
On Harlow Ausby’s fortieth birthday, she still feels as out of place in polished Charleston as the moon in a midday sky. From her strawberry-red hair to the matching birthmark that seems to swallow her left leg, Harlow’s uncommon looks have always made her feel less than worthy of the image-conscious Ausby name. As her often cruel and critical mother, Vivian, lies dying in a hospital bed, Harlow reexamines the choices—or lack thereof—that have brought her to a crossroads in her life. She is freshly divorced from a social climber she never loved, nursing a newly empty nest, and shocked to run into the love of her life—a man whose heart she broke twenty years earlier—and his wife, her former best friend.
What she doesn’t realize is that everything is about to change.
Over the course of one monumental day, a secret as old as Harlow surfaces. Moving from the present to the past and then back again, Harlow’s story explores rich female friendships, deep rifts between mothers and daughters, and simmering under-the-surface social scandal.
Terms of Surrender is a novel that women will want to discover, because it’s a story they may already know. They just haven’t read it yet.
Terms of Surrender is a story about when coming of age arrives late.
On Harlow Ausby’s fortieth birthday, she still feels as out of place in polished Charleston as the moon in a midday sky. From her strawberry-red hair to the matching birthmark that seems to swallow her left leg, Harlow’s uncommon looks have always made her feel less than worthy of the image-conscious Ausby name. As her often cruel and critical mother, Vivian, lies dying in a hospital bed, Harlow reexamines the choices—or lack thereof—that have brought her to a crossroads in her life. She is freshly divorced from a social climber she never loved, nursing a newly empty nest, and shocked to run into the love of her life—a man whose heart she broke twenty years earlier—and his wife, her former best friend.
What she doesn’t realize is that everything is about to change.
Over the course of one monumental day, a secret as old as Harlow surfaces. Moving from the present to the past and then back again, Harlow’s story explores rich female friendships, deep rifts between mothers and daughters, and simmering under-the-surface social scandal.
Terms of Surrender is a novel that women will want to discover, because it’s a story they may already know. They just haven’t read it yet.
ebook
First published May 11, 2018
About the author
Karyn Rae
5 books29 followersThe first part of Karyn's life was spent in the South, and the last fifteen years have played out in the Midwest, but she's still holding on to a shred of her Southern roots.
What She Loves:
Her family, friends, food- anything covered in cheese, reading, writing, vodka, music- the live variety, sarcasm, a strong curse word, college sports- especially the NCAA tournament (GO Tigers!), running- although doesn't do it as much as she should, her annual girls trip, Benjamin Franklin, most things considered Southern, sending notes through snail mail, coffee, roller coasters, peace among her kids, the mountains, the ocean, boots- she does not discriminate, home décor that looks wore out and beat to death, and faith in the unknown.
What She Loves:
Her family, friends, food- anything covered in cheese, reading, writing, vodka, music- the live variety, sarcasm, a strong curse word, college sports- especially the NCAA tournament (GO Tigers!), running- although doesn't do it as much as she should, her annual girls trip, Benjamin Franklin, most things considered Southern, sending notes through snail mail, coffee, roller coasters, peace among her kids, the mountains, the ocean, boots- she does not discriminate, home décor that looks wore out and beat to death, and faith in the unknown.
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 29 of 29 reviews
June 18, 2018
FIVE SOULMATES STARS
This is the story of Harlow Ausby and Jade Ryan. They meet in their early twenties and right off the bat they’re inseparable. Except Harlow is the daughter of a prestigious family on the South of Broad in Charleston and Jade is from “Off”; a term used by residents for anyone living off the South of Broad. Despite Jade’s family still being well-to-do, Harlow’s mother Vivian cannot fathom her precious daughter dating anyone who isn’t of old money.
“I could sense her disappointment every time my leg accidentally became unrobed. My obvious flaw seemed to reflect on Mother herself, a reminder of her failure to achieve perfection.”
Harlow and Jade sneak around and eventually fall in love, but are torn apart by terrible circumstances that shreds your heart to pieces. I won’t go into too much detail as to not spoil the plot, but the root of the novel proves that love can conquer time and space and all the obstacles that others put in its way.
“The connection we had was powerful and profound. My heart had gradually defined itself by a longing that could not be swept away with the tides. Just the idea of him bloomed in every compartment of my mind, caressing all my senses… It had taken less than two weeks for me to fall for him, and for the rest of my life, I would be suspended in midair.”
I truly loved this story of the power and strength of love and friendship. The story and how it is written sucks you in from the minute you start reading, grabbing hold of you until the last page. The best read so far this year, hands down. I don't reread much, but I feel like I could flip right back to page one and enjoy it all over again.
I recommend this touching, poignant, and captivating story for it will absolutely linger in your heart forever.
ARC provided by the author in exchange for an honest review.
This is the story of Harlow Ausby and Jade Ryan. They meet in their early twenties and right off the bat they’re inseparable. Except Harlow is the daughter of a prestigious family on the South of Broad in Charleston and Jade is from “Off”; a term used by residents for anyone living off the South of Broad. Despite Jade’s family still being well-to-do, Harlow’s mother Vivian cannot fathom her precious daughter dating anyone who isn’t of old money.
“I could sense her disappointment every time my leg accidentally became unrobed. My obvious flaw seemed to reflect on Mother herself, a reminder of her failure to achieve perfection.”
Harlow and Jade sneak around and eventually fall in love, but are torn apart by terrible circumstances that shreds your heart to pieces. I won’t go into too much detail as to not spoil the plot, but the root of the novel proves that love can conquer time and space and all the obstacles that others put in its way.
“The connection we had was powerful and profound. My heart had gradually defined itself by a longing that could not be swept away with the tides. Just the idea of him bloomed in every compartment of my mind, caressing all my senses… It had taken less than two weeks for me to fall for him, and for the rest of my life, I would be suspended in midair.”
I truly loved this story of the power and strength of love and friendship. The story and how it is written sucks you in from the minute you start reading, grabbing hold of you until the last page. The best read so far this year, hands down. I don't reread much, but I feel like I could flip right back to page one and enjoy it all over again.
I recommend this touching, poignant, and captivating story for it will absolutely linger in your heart forever.
ARC provided by the author in exchange for an honest review.
September 4, 2018
Harlow is a coming of age story about a woman who has just turned 40. Rae’s writing is beautiful and I truly enjoyed diving into the world she created. This book is self published and I hope you consider picking it up!
.
This story discusses themes of love, friendship, family expectations and self discovery. The plot is intriguing but it was the characters that really drew me in. I wanted to discover what would, and what had, happened to them. There is a wonderful dual time line in this book (I love dual timelines!). I loved that the current time line was broken up into times of day and the past was broken down into traditional chapter headers.
.
Some parts of the story filled my heart up, some parts broke it and in some parts I felt angry for Harlow. I enjoyed seeing Harlow and other characters develop throughout her story. There is a wonderful cast of characters and I can’t wait to learn more about them.
.
I only wish this book was longer so that I could know more. More descriptions of friendships and family, more time for the development of love, more Jade. I wanted more time at the gala and I wish there were consequences for certain actions.
.
I am so excited for this series to continue and to read more from this author. 4/5 🌟 from me.
.
Trigger warning for rape.
.
This story discusses themes of love, friendship, family expectations and self discovery. The plot is intriguing but it was the characters that really drew me in. I wanted to discover what would, and what had, happened to them. There is a wonderful dual time line in this book (I love dual timelines!). I loved that the current time line was broken up into times of day and the past was broken down into traditional chapter headers.
.
Some parts of the story filled my heart up, some parts broke it and in some parts I felt angry for Harlow. I enjoyed seeing Harlow and other characters develop throughout her story. There is a wonderful cast of characters and I can’t wait to learn more about them.
.
I only wish this book was longer so that I could know more. More descriptions of friendships and family, more time for the development of love, more Jade. I wanted more time at the gala and I wish there were consequences for certain actions.
.
I am so excited for this series to continue and to read more from this author. 4/5 🌟 from me.
.
Trigger warning for rape.
June 14, 2018
I have also read Karyn Rae’s debut novel, and was very much looking forward to start the Terms of Endearment series. Book one focuses on Harlow Ausby, and takes readers from the past to present. It was fascinating seeing Harlow as both a women about to turn forty, and a young girl growing up in a strict Southern household. Each clip from the past locks another puzzle piece into place for the story we’re getting in the present, and I found myself eagerly waiting for another flashback, trying to fit all the pieces together myself. I absolutely loved this story and when I saw what the rest of the series will hold, I found myself even more excited, and I think those will be highly anticipated novels. There is true love and heart break, deep bonds of friendship, the meaning of mother’s love, and even some suspense inside the pages. I highly recommend for your summer reading list!
I received a review copy
I received a review copy
August 28, 2018
First, I would like to thank Karyn Rae for sending my a copy of her beautiful book in exchange for a review. This is my first novel from this author, however, I am very much looking forward to reading more!
Terms of Surrender- Harlow tells the story of Harlow Ausby and Jade Ryan. They fall in love quickly while they're young, however, a series of events and family expectations drifts them apart. We follow Harlow through her younger years as well as her current situation at the hospital with over-bearing and aloof mother.
Harlow's journey to find herself and her life's purpose throughout the novel had me rooting for her, aching for her, and identifying with her at times as well. Underneath all her life's events, the quest for love and acceptance is a theme that is driven home in this novel.
I stayed up WAY past my bedtime last night because I needed to know how things ended/turned out. Go read this book!
Terms of Surrender- Harlow tells the story of Harlow Ausby and Jade Ryan. They fall in love quickly while they're young, however, a series of events and family expectations drifts them apart. We follow Harlow through her younger years as well as her current situation at the hospital with over-bearing and aloof mother.
Harlow's journey to find herself and her life's purpose throughout the novel had me rooting for her, aching for her, and identifying with her at times as well. Underneath all her life's events, the quest for love and acceptance is a theme that is driven home in this novel.
I stayed up WAY past my bedtime last night because I needed to know how things ended/turned out. Go read this book!
September 16, 2018
4.5 Stars
This was an amazing coming of age/women's fiction novel that focuses not only on a true love story but also explores the complex relationships of mothers and daughters and best friends.
I fell in love with this author's writing style! This was a beautifully written story set in the most exclusive area of Charleston. Harlow grew up in a household with a mother that taught her that appearances are everything and outsiders, people from the Off, who aren't at the top of the Charlestonian social ladder are never good enough. Harlow does not quite fill the mold of the perfect southern daughter and she falls in love with Jade, someone her mother would never approve of because his family is neither from power nor money. The events that unfold to separate these two young lovers is heartbreaking and frustrating!
The story is told from the present to the past and there were so many unexpected events and surprising twists that kept me completely engrossed and riveted to this book. Harlow frustrated me so much! The need to "do the right thing" and to keep up the perfect facade instead of choosing love and happiness was a very difficult pill for me to swallow. I just wanted to scream!
However, this book was also about claiming second chances and this heroine rose to the challenge. It was like she was sleeping for 20 years and now she is finally waking up. It's never too late to claim not only a second chance at a new life but also a second chance at love. Harlow also taught us that there is more strength in forgiveness even though she had every right to hold grudges.
This book mad me want to laugh and cry and it just made me FEEL! Jade and Harlow's love story was so beautiful and powerful that it transcends time and pain and lies and deceit. The story line was so intriguing and layers of secrets that unravel during the course of this book kept me constantly engaged. I highly recommend if you are looking for an emotional coming of age story of love and self discovery!
4.5 Stars
Women's Fiction/ Contemporary Romance
Heat Level: Very Mild
POV: Heroine
HEA
Follow me for your next COMFORT READ!!
This was an amazing coming of age/women's fiction novel that focuses not only on a true love story but also explores the complex relationships of mothers and daughters and best friends.
I fell in love with this author's writing style! This was a beautifully written story set in the most exclusive area of Charleston. Harlow grew up in a household with a mother that taught her that appearances are everything and outsiders, people from the Off, who aren't at the top of the Charlestonian social ladder are never good enough. Harlow does not quite fill the mold of the perfect southern daughter and she falls in love with Jade, someone her mother would never approve of because his family is neither from power nor money. The events that unfold to separate these two young lovers is heartbreaking and frustrating!
The story is told from the present to the past and there were so many unexpected events and surprising twists that kept me completely engrossed and riveted to this book. Harlow frustrated me so much! The need to "do the right thing" and to keep up the perfect facade instead of choosing love and happiness was a very difficult pill for me to swallow. I just wanted to scream!
However, this book was also about claiming second chances and this heroine rose to the challenge. It was like she was sleeping for 20 years and now she is finally waking up. It's never too late to claim not only a second chance at a new life but also a second chance at love. Harlow also taught us that there is more strength in forgiveness even though she had every right to hold grudges.
"There are just some things that you have to surrender to in this life if you want to be worth anything at the end of it."
This book mad me want to laugh and cry and it just made me FEEL! Jade and Harlow's love story was so beautiful and powerful that it transcends time and pain and lies and deceit. The story line was so intriguing and layers of secrets that unravel during the course of this book kept me constantly engaged. I highly recommend if you are looking for an emotional coming of age story of love and self discovery!
4.5 Stars
Women's Fiction/ Contemporary Romance
Heat Level: Very Mild
POV: Heroine
HEA
Follow me for your next COMFORT READ!!
May 20, 2018
Harlow Ausby lived her whole life in what the 'true southern old money' upbringing. You intertwine yourself around people who are high in status, money, power. You marry into wealth and power. Jade Ryan is the opposite. With her and Jade Ryan, we get pure, sweet, unreserved, true love, but things happen, and they live almost 20 years without each other. It is heartbreaking, just downright heartsick. On her 40th birthday, everything is coming out. This story had so much depth. So many layers of secrets to take in. Her 'mother' Vivian was hard on her, pressuring her to date the "right" guys.......I don't want to give too much away but this definitely is a must read. Chapters are written quite uniquely. The timeline chapters work so well, love that! I kinda wish there was a Jade POV. I would've loved to see in his words, from the first time he saw Harlow to the end, where his life was at the end.....But, it doesn't change my opinion on this book, it just would've been nice to see....This was my first Karyn Rae book, and I am looking forward to the next books in this series. Definitely recommended.....
bookstagrammer--tweezyreads
bookstagrammer--tweezyreads
June 27, 2018
I don't think I'll ever be emotionally finished with this book. It is heart-crushing. It's also beautifully written, cleverly plotted, and perfectly paced. Somehow the author brought it all around to a romantic second chance HEA for the main couple and dispenses a whole lot of satisfying justice for the sphincter weasels who had created roadblocks for them.
The City of Charleston is a character in the book too. I've never been there, but I feel like I have been just from reading this book. The author's ability to capture the feel of the historic city and the characters that inhabit it is on the level of John Berendt. It's truly immersive.
Am I the only one who read the hero's name as Jake Ryan? I just couldn't buy the idea of a rugged furniture builder fellow named "Jade." Jade is not a boy's name in my universe. But Jake Ryan? I am definitely on board with that. Especially since the actor who played him (Michael Schoeffling), after his early retirement from Hollywood, moved to Pennsylvania and makes furniture for a living. Coincidence? Or tribute?
The City of Charleston is a character in the book too. I've never been there, but I feel like I have been just from reading this book. The author's ability to capture the feel of the historic city and the characters that inhabit it is on the level of John Berendt. It's truly immersive.
Am I the only one who read the hero's name as Jake Ryan? I just couldn't buy the idea of a rugged furniture builder fellow named "Jade." Jade is not a boy's name in my universe. But Jake Ryan? I am definitely on board with that. Especially since the actor who played him (Michael Schoeffling), after his early retirement from Hollywood, moved to Pennsylvania and makes furniture for a living. Coincidence? Or tribute?
June 22, 2018
Terms of Surrender by Karyn Rae
📚
First off thank you Karyn Rae, for sending me a copy of your beautiful book! I truly feel honored.
Meet Harlow. She's a sweet southern girl, born and raised to do what is right according to southern etiquette and of course, her momma. Even if it costs her the life she truly wants. And the man she loves.
Kayrn Rae's writing blew me away. Her mesmerizing prose and language sucked me in from the beginning of this novel. She has crafter a truly beautiful story with Harlow. Heartbreaking and tender. Crushing and sweet. I always say there's something special when you can't put a book down, and I could not put this one down. I had to know what was going to happen with Harlow. With Jade. I was deeply invested in these characters and their story. There were moments when my stomach hurt from what was happening and other times where I had butterflies from anticipation! This is a beautiful story that not only involves love, but the importance of friendship, and following your heart. In my opinion it's the perfect summer read! I cannot wait to read more by this author! ⭐⭐⭐⭐🌠's! I do believe this is one that will stick with me for awhile!
📚
First off thank you Karyn Rae, for sending me a copy of your beautiful book! I truly feel honored.
Meet Harlow. She's a sweet southern girl, born and raised to do what is right according to southern etiquette and of course, her momma. Even if it costs her the life she truly wants. And the man she loves.
Kayrn Rae's writing blew me away. Her mesmerizing prose and language sucked me in from the beginning of this novel. She has crafter a truly beautiful story with Harlow. Heartbreaking and tender. Crushing and sweet. I always say there's something special when you can't put a book down, and I could not put this one down. I had to know what was going to happen with Harlow. With Jade. I was deeply invested in these characters and their story. There were moments when my stomach hurt from what was happening and other times where I had butterflies from anticipation! This is a beautiful story that not only involves love, but the importance of friendship, and following your heart. In my opinion it's the perfect summer read! I cannot wait to read more by this author! ⭐⭐⭐⭐🌠's! I do believe this is one that will stick with me for awhile!
June 26, 2018
Seven hours after the postman delivered Terms of Surrender I was drained. I had experienced feelings that I had never before been aware of, and was unable to tear myself away from the the emotions of the characters in this magnificent story. The beautiful setting in modern day Charleston, SC is wonderfully described and the characters in the story bring out emotions that need to be examined in all of us.
This is one of the best books to be written in our time.
Is it a chick's only book? I guess not, as I am a mans man, a John Wayne kind of guy with scares on my knuckles.
This is one of the best books to be written in our time.
Is it a chick's only book? I guess not, as I am a mans man, a John Wayne kind of guy with scares on my knuckles.
June 9, 2018
I read 95% of this book on one evening. Maybe it was a case of "right book at the right time," but that wouldn't be giving the author enough credit. Wowzer! I really enjoyed it. Some of the storyline resonated personally, but also, indie author Karyn Rae is a helluva writer. (And a super sweet person!) With poised prose, just a smidge of fun smut, and a didn't-see-that-coming penchant for brutal twists, I am officially a fan.
Like it says on the cover, Terms of Surrender is the story of "When coming of age arrives late." This first book in the series introduces us to our protagonist Harlow on her 40th birthday. Harlow's getting a divorce; her mother's about to die, and the former love of her life is walking through the door. Also, there's a little, ugly rescue pup named Chiquita in there, so 'nuff said. THIS IS THE BOOK FOR ME. I mean, how cute does this sound? Totes a Lifetime movie romance, right? Butterflies all up in mah belly. Swoons. Soft and sorrowful and sugary sweet, right?
No. NOSIRREEBOB. There's some fluff 'n romance, for sure, but there is some darkness oozing in this book, and I'm excited for other readers to discover it.
Terms of Surrender | Harlow is the first book in Karyn Rae's Terms of Surrender series, and I'm already anticipating the subsequent ones! Get writing, Karyn! Please with a cherry on top. Or a pineapple.
**I was provided this advanced reader copy (ARC) in exchange for an honest reader's review, and that's what you've got here, friends. All opinions are my own.**
Visit my blog www.thestoryestate.com or follow me on Instagram @TheStoryEstate for more!
Like it says on the cover, Terms of Surrender is the story of "When coming of age arrives late." This first book in the series introduces us to our protagonist Harlow on her 40th birthday. Harlow's getting a divorce; her mother's about to die, and the former love of her life is walking through the door. Also, there's a little, ugly rescue pup named Chiquita in there, so 'nuff said. THIS IS THE BOOK FOR ME. I mean, how cute does this sound? Totes a Lifetime movie romance, right? Butterflies all up in mah belly. Swoons. Soft and sorrowful and sugary sweet, right?
No. NOSIRREEBOB. There's some fluff 'n romance, for sure, but there is some darkness oozing in this book, and I'm excited for other readers to discover it.
Terms of Surrender | Harlow is the first book in Karyn Rae's Terms of Surrender series, and I'm already anticipating the subsequent ones! Get writing, Karyn! Please with a cherry on top. Or a pineapple.
**I was provided this advanced reader copy (ARC) in exchange for an honest reader's review, and that's what you've got here, friends. All opinions are my own.**
Visit my blog www.thestoryestate.com or follow me on Instagram @TheStoryEstate for more!
June 22, 2018
I read this book today, I couldn’t put it down! I loved the stories of each character and all their connections. I cannot wait to read more in this series! I have a special spot for some of the characters names in the book. Great read, spread the word!
July 30, 2018
Brittany's Review
"The grapevine of gossip stretched far, and if you got caught up in it, it would hang you every time."
I decided to start this book while I was on vacation, and I could not put it down it was so interesting! The way the whole book was written was very unique, it was really unlike anything I have read before. What immediately attracted me to this book was that it was set in the South. Being from the South, it always is an eye catching part of a book for me, so I was not disappointed when I found myself reading about things that I have experienced growing up in the South. The scenes were almost too real sometimes for me, not that it was a bad things by any means. In a weird way, it felt familiar to me. I have given out more Bless Your Hearts than I can remember- it really is its own time warped place here, but it's home and I wouldn't want to be anywhere else. So while most might gawk at some of the actions in this book, it was sort of like being with my friends while reading.
"I had spent my entire twenty years following society, Mother, and God and it had gotten me nowhere."
This book was so much more than I was expecting- Harlow was so much more than I was expecting. Reading the back of this book does nothing to prepare you for the emotional voyage you will be partaking- and I was totally fine with that. It's even more than the simple words I can use to describe it- love, friendship, family and time. I feel like I know Harlow on such a personal level, one that made me cry with her, laugh with her and rejoice with her. This book will tear your soul up. I remember sitting in the dark sobbing because my heart was literally broken and then all throughout the book slowly put back together. It was more than the old do what your mother says sort of tale- it was SO MUCH MORE.
"I was the begging of my day to start with you, for it to end with you beside me, and to love you hard through the middle."
At times I was DYING for a double POV. I need to see what was exactly in his mind. But the story was still amazing without it- I don't think it took anything away from the book, but definitely could have added some additional content. Basically I just want more! Even with the suspense and the back and forth of the timeline, I never lost sight of what was real love. I loved the beginning, the middle and the end of this book. There is no doubt that you will too and I hope you take the time to pick this book up and read it!
"The grapevine of gossip stretched far, and if you got caught up in it, it would hang you every time."
I decided to start this book while I was on vacation, and I could not put it down it was so interesting! The way the whole book was written was very unique, it was really unlike anything I have read before. What immediately attracted me to this book was that it was set in the South. Being from the South, it always is an eye catching part of a book for me, so I was not disappointed when I found myself reading about things that I have experienced growing up in the South. The scenes were almost too real sometimes for me, not that it was a bad things by any means. In a weird way, it felt familiar to me. I have given out more Bless Your Hearts than I can remember- it really is its own time warped place here, but it's home and I wouldn't want to be anywhere else. So while most might gawk at some of the actions in this book, it was sort of like being with my friends while reading.
"I had spent my entire twenty years following society, Mother, and God and it had gotten me nowhere."
This book was so much more than I was expecting- Harlow was so much more than I was expecting. Reading the back of this book does nothing to prepare you for the emotional voyage you will be partaking- and I was totally fine with that. It's even more than the simple words I can use to describe it- love, friendship, family and time. I feel like I know Harlow on such a personal level, one that made me cry with her, laugh with her and rejoice with her. This book will tear your soul up. I remember sitting in the dark sobbing because my heart was literally broken and then all throughout the book slowly put back together. It was more than the old do what your mother says sort of tale- it was SO MUCH MORE.
"I was the begging of my day to start with you, for it to end with you beside me, and to love you hard through the middle."
At times I was DYING for a double POV. I need to see what was exactly in his mind. But the story was still amazing without it- I don't think it took anything away from the book, but definitely could have added some additional content. Basically I just want more! Even with the suspense and the back and forth of the timeline, I never lost sight of what was real love. I loved the beginning, the middle and the end of this book. There is no doubt that you will too and I hope you take the time to pick this book up and read it!
August 28, 2018
I'm honored whenever an author asks me to read their novel in exchange for an honest review. For one of those books to be so good I read it in two days, well that's just a delight. Thank you so much, Karyn Rae, for sending me a copy of your book!
SYNOPSIS
I love a good book set in the south. Originally from Oklahoma (which is in the South depending on who you ask), reading a book with Southern ties is something I will always enjoy. This book tells two stories of one person: Harlow at 20 years old and Harlow at 40 years old. Set in Charleston, South Carolina, the timeline jumps between "then" and "now" starting and finishing with Harlow's 40th birthday. Harlow at 20 is far from being the perfect Southern woman that her mother wants her to be. From the wrong kind of best friend to a boyfriend from the wrong part of town, Harlow has never met her mother's expectations. One fateful night, Harlow's life takes a drastic turn that changes everything.
Twenty years later, on her 40th birthday, Harlow's life isn't anything that she wanted it to be. Her mother is in the hospital in a coma and her twenty-year marriage has just come to an end leaving her with nothing. Fatefully reconnected to both her long lost best friend and the true love of her life, Harlow is given the chance to have everything she's always wanted. On her 40th birthday, Harlow's life is just getting started.
REVIEW
It took me about 60 pages to get into Harlow's story, but after those 60 I was hooked. With twists and turns and a little bit of sexy thrown in, the storyline keeps your attention, making the book hard to put down. There is some saccharine-filled romance, but the story is so much more than that. Characters were well rounded, filled with real flaws and dealing with real issues. The love the characters have for one another (with one or two exceptions) are what I loved most about this story. If there was anything I could criticize, it would be that I would have liked to see it would have to be a little more dialogue and a little less description.
Even though I started to figure out the secrets (that weren't being shared with Harlow), it didn't make me stop reading. If anything, having my suspensions made the book even more fun to read. The ending was very satisfying. There's nothing better than seeing the characters you've grown to hate get what is coming to them.
I'm looking forward to the next book in this series!
SYNOPSIS
I love a good book set in the south. Originally from Oklahoma (which is in the South depending on who you ask), reading a book with Southern ties is something I will always enjoy. This book tells two stories of one person: Harlow at 20 years old and Harlow at 40 years old. Set in Charleston, South Carolina, the timeline jumps between "then" and "now" starting and finishing with Harlow's 40th birthday. Harlow at 20 is far from being the perfect Southern woman that her mother wants her to be. From the wrong kind of best friend to a boyfriend from the wrong part of town, Harlow has never met her mother's expectations. One fateful night, Harlow's life takes a drastic turn that changes everything.
Twenty years later, on her 40th birthday, Harlow's life isn't anything that she wanted it to be. Her mother is in the hospital in a coma and her twenty-year marriage has just come to an end leaving her with nothing. Fatefully reconnected to both her long lost best friend and the true love of her life, Harlow is given the chance to have everything she's always wanted. On her 40th birthday, Harlow's life is just getting started.
REVIEW
It took me about 60 pages to get into Harlow's story, but after those 60 I was hooked. With twists and turns and a little bit of sexy thrown in, the storyline keeps your attention, making the book hard to put down. There is some saccharine-filled romance, but the story is so much more than that. Characters were well rounded, filled with real flaws and dealing with real issues. The love the characters have for one another (with one or two exceptions) are what I loved most about this story. If there was anything I could criticize, it would be that I would have liked to see it would have to be a little more dialogue and a little less description.
Even though I started to figure out the secrets (that weren't being shared with Harlow), it didn't make me stop reading. If anything, having my suspensions made the book even more fun to read. The ending was very satisfying. There's nothing better than seeing the characters you've grown to hate get what is coming to them.
I'm looking forward to the next book in this series!
June 29, 2018
I purchased "Terms of Surrender" and then my daughter swiped it from me before I could even read it. In short, we both adored this book! I have now passed it on to my mother, and like us, she cannot put it down! To say it's the perfect summer read would be an understatement! If you are looking for something that takes you back to the thrills of first love, the delicate threads of mother/daughter relationships and everything in between, search no further.
In "Terms of Surrender" you are immediately whisked away to the amazingly gorgeous setting of Charleston, South Carolina. Even those without Southern roots can appreciate the natural beauty which Karyn Rae describes with such intensity and flair, that you honestly feel like you've been there. I could picture every corner of the city by the time the book concluded. Rae's description of the "rules of the south" gives the story even more depth and humanity. It is the underlying factor in all that unfolds in this beautifully told tale of love found, love lost, retribution and redemption at the most intricate levels.
I particularly loved the way the book was set in less than 24 hours, with flashbacks to tell how they got to the present situation. It gives the reader the feeling of really having been there for the journey of Harlow's life. The storyline of Harlow's first love is so tenderly written, it will take you right back to your own experience -- even if it's been 20+ years as it was with Harlow, you never forget such a thing. Rae writes, "As it turned out, it wasn't the kind of love that washes out with the tides or falls away with the seasons. It was the perennial kind of love that perseveres. It was the kind that drives you to madness and makes you rabid in the most beautiful way, a love that reaches deep into your insides and scrapes at your bones, leaving you complete yet exhausted. It radiated in my smile and seeped from my words, each breath an affirmation of the swelling in my heart." WOW! If you haven't had that kind of love, "Terms" will leave you wishing you had!
The conclusion is one that even an avid reader will never guess or see coming. There's nothing better than a book that keeps you on your toes to try to figure out how it's all going to come full circle. I highly recommend this book! Trust me, you will be aching for the next in the series to come out!
In "Terms of Surrender" you are immediately whisked away to the amazingly gorgeous setting of Charleston, South Carolina. Even those without Southern roots can appreciate the natural beauty which Karyn Rae describes with such intensity and flair, that you honestly feel like you've been there. I could picture every corner of the city by the time the book concluded. Rae's description of the "rules of the south" gives the story even more depth and humanity. It is the underlying factor in all that unfolds in this beautifully told tale of love found, love lost, retribution and redemption at the most intricate levels.
I particularly loved the way the book was set in less than 24 hours, with flashbacks to tell how they got to the present situation. It gives the reader the feeling of really having been there for the journey of Harlow's life. The storyline of Harlow's first love is so tenderly written, it will take you right back to your own experience -- even if it's been 20+ years as it was with Harlow, you never forget such a thing. Rae writes, "As it turned out, it wasn't the kind of love that washes out with the tides or falls away with the seasons. It was the perennial kind of love that perseveres. It was the kind that drives you to madness and makes you rabid in the most beautiful way, a love that reaches deep into your insides and scrapes at your bones, leaving you complete yet exhausted. It radiated in my smile and seeped from my words, each breath an affirmation of the swelling in my heart." WOW! If you haven't had that kind of love, "Terms" will leave you wishing you had!
The conclusion is one that even an avid reader will never guess or see coming. There's nothing better than a book that keeps you on your toes to try to figure out how it's all going to come full circle. I highly recommend this book! Trust me, you will be aching for the next in the series to come out!
September 19, 2018
This review was copied from my romance novel review blog: romanticallyinclinedreviews.com
Terms of Surrender: Harlow takes places over the course of one day. One entire love story wrapped up in a mere twenty-four hours. It's a style of romance novel that I've never read before and I enjoyed wondering how things would wrap up as I watched the hours tick by in the chapter headers.
This novel is a second chance romance between the newly forty, newly divorced Harlow and her best friend's husband, Jade. I really found myself questioning whether it was possible for these two people to find happiness with so much standing in their way, but thankfully--as it's a romance novel--they find their happy ever after eventually.
The book follows Harlow's point of view in its entirety as she struggles with her mother's impending death, the love of her life popping back into the picture with her estranged best friend, her recent divorce and cheating ex-husband, and the loss of everything she's worked for her entire life. It's an insane amount of shit for one woman to wade through, but Harlow is one strong woman.
Terms of Surrender is a feel good story, but it isn't without its triggers. For readers sensitive to subjects like rape, cancer, infidelity, and domestic violence you may want to find your kicks elsewhere. I took some issue with the way that these issues were dealt with/glossed over by the characters involved, but I guess it's more realistic that way--no one person deals with, or works through, issues the same way as anyone else. But I'll still put it out there because it wouldn't be a one hundred percent honest review if I didn't mention how much I wished the rape/domestic violence had been addressed in a more upfront manner by the characters.
Still, minor fault--in my picky opinion--aside I thought this book was quite unique. It had a perfect amount of drama and the characters were likable and relatable. Bad people got their comeuppances, good things happened to good people, and the reader gets their happily ever after. What more do you need from a romance novel?
Terms of Surrender: Harlow takes places over the course of one day. One entire love story wrapped up in a mere twenty-four hours. It's a style of romance novel that I've never read before and I enjoyed wondering how things would wrap up as I watched the hours tick by in the chapter headers.
This novel is a second chance romance between the newly forty, newly divorced Harlow and her best friend's husband, Jade. I really found myself questioning whether it was possible for these two people to find happiness with so much standing in their way, but thankfully--as it's a romance novel--they find their happy ever after eventually.
The book follows Harlow's point of view in its entirety as she struggles with her mother's impending death, the love of her life popping back into the picture with her estranged best friend, her recent divorce and cheating ex-husband, and the loss of everything she's worked for her entire life. It's an insane amount of shit for one woman to wade through, but Harlow is one strong woman.
Terms of Surrender is a feel good story, but it isn't without its triggers. For readers sensitive to subjects like rape, cancer, infidelity, and domestic violence you may want to find your kicks elsewhere. I took some issue with the way that these issues were dealt with/glossed over by the characters involved, but I guess it's more realistic that way--no one person deals with, or works through, issues the same way as anyone else. But I'll still put it out there because it wouldn't be a one hundred percent honest review if I didn't mention how much I wished the rape/domestic violence had been addressed in a more upfront manner by the characters.
Still, minor fault--in my picky opinion--aside I thought this book was quite unique. It had a perfect amount of drama and the characters were likable and relatable. Bad people got their comeuppances, good things happened to good people, and the reader gets their happily ever after. What more do you need from a romance novel?
July 14, 2018
This was my first book by Karyn Rae but it certainly won't be my last. This book had me interested from the first page and I had trouble putting it down until the end. I am thrilled to know that this is part of a series and can't wait to read the next book.
This novel - part love story, part family drama and part coming of age - is set in Charleston, SC, one of the most beautiful places in the world but also a city that until not very long ago had very rigid class settings between the rich and the not so rich. The main character is Harlow and she is having her 40th birthday as the novel begins. Even at 40, she is very unsure of herself and her place in the world mostly due to the way her mother treated her growing up. She's just received divorce papers from her husband and she knows that her parent's art gallery and the house she grew up in were all left to him in their wills and not to her - their only daughter. The author uses flashbacks to Harlow's growing up years so that we can better understand why she is so unsure of her place in Charleston society. As the story unfolds and Harlow begins to understand more about the past, her future will be changed in ways that she can't even imagine.
This was a fantastic novel about love and friendship and romance and family. I highly recommend it.
Thanks to the publisher for a copy of this book to read and review. All opinions are my own.
This novel - part love story, part family drama and part coming of age - is set in Charleston, SC, one of the most beautiful places in the world but also a city that until not very long ago had very rigid class settings between the rich and the not so rich. The main character is Harlow and she is having her 40th birthday as the novel begins. Even at 40, she is very unsure of herself and her place in the world mostly due to the way her mother treated her growing up. She's just received divorce papers from her husband and she knows that her parent's art gallery and the house she grew up in were all left to him in their wills and not to her - their only daughter. The author uses flashbacks to Harlow's growing up years so that we can better understand why she is so unsure of her place in Charleston society. As the story unfolds and Harlow begins to understand more about the past, her future will be changed in ways that she can't even imagine.
This was a fantastic novel about love and friendship and romance and family. I highly recommend it.
Thanks to the publisher for a copy of this book to read and review. All opinions are my own.
September 25, 2018
Harlow is turning forty and on her birthday the final papers are signed for her divorce from a man she never loved. Her daughter is away at college and her mother is dying. Harlow has never felt comfortable with her mother or able to live up to the family name and their expectations. Now she is looking at her life with the help of Beth, the person who has worked for Harlow's family for years. She learns all that she has believed over the last forty years is no where near the truth. Now she must forgive to her former best friend, tell the man she left twenty years ago the real truth, and find her place in the Ausby family. I felt like the main character was too wishy washy and I couldn't get past that. I had a hard time staying with this book. I like a stronger main character. I couldn't stay with the book for very long as it put me to sleep.
July 1, 2018
I always hear people say, “I couldn’t put the book down”, but the pace is so fast in Terms of Surrender that you really can not stop reading. I don’t know how the author does it, but she has you on a roller coaster of emotions. Part love story, part suspense...so exciting to read. The author does an amazing job setting the scene and describing the characters, down to the most minute detail. This was a great book.
July 7, 2018
“The mind may go gray with age, but the heart never forgets.”
If I had to use one word to describe this novel, it would be gripping.
The depths and secrets that are weaved together to fill up the pages of this novel are breathtaking. Each chapter twisted the story and changed everything we thought we knew about the characters. It’s such a unique tweak on what I have come to expect from the contemporary romance genre.
I’m not going to go into too much detail about the book, I want everything to be a surprise for you, but just know it’s one of those books you read when your emotions are hitting you extra hard, and you feel the weight of the world on your shoulders. In a way, Terms of Surrender acts as the perfect reflection of life. It leaves you feeling a little bit sad, a little bit livid, a little bit happy, and a little bit confused. I loved this emotional mystery.
If I had to use one word to describe this novel, it would be gripping.
The depths and secrets that are weaved together to fill up the pages of this novel are breathtaking. Each chapter twisted the story and changed everything we thought we knew about the characters. It’s such a unique tweak on what I have come to expect from the contemporary romance genre.
I’m not going to go into too much detail about the book, I want everything to be a surprise for you, but just know it’s one of those books you read when your emotions are hitting you extra hard, and you feel the weight of the world on your shoulders. In a way, Terms of Surrender acts as the perfect reflection of life. It leaves you feeling a little bit sad, a little bit livid, a little bit happy, and a little bit confused. I loved this emotional mystery.
July 5, 2018
Karyn Rae has outdone herself! What a great summer read!
Terms of Surrender is a page turner from start to finish. With lavish attention to detail, Rae transports you into the low country, inviting you into the complicated and oftentimes messy lives of a mother, daughter, and a best friend. This is one book that will keep you wanting more, the characters will leave an impression on your heart long after you’re done!
Terms of Surrender is a page turner from start to finish. With lavish attention to detail, Rae transports you into the low country, inviting you into the complicated and oftentimes messy lives of a mother, daughter, and a best friend. This is one book that will keep you wanting more, the characters will leave an impression on your heart long after you’re done!
June 21, 2018
Hands dow, my favorite read of the year! Terms of Surrender, Harlow is an intriguing novel! It has romance, mystery, sadness all rolled up in one story! Harlow was raised in true old-money in iconic Charleston, SC. The story starts in present time and then reverts back to her childhood, where you follow her true love. I couldn’t put it down!
June 28, 2018
This was the first book I have read by Karyn Rae, and it won’t be my last! I fell in love with Harlow and Jade! They are 2 tragically beautiful characters. There are so many plot twists I didn’t see coming, which made me not want to put the book down! Their story is so different than anything I’ve ever read. I can’t wait to read more from this author in the future!
August 23, 2018
I finished this book in one day. I just couldn’t put it down. Karyn has a way of drawing you in and you become invested in the lives of her characters quickly! I highly recommend this book. It carries you through each emotion and reminds you why our relationships with others are the most important part of our lives.
May 10, 2019
This is a story of undying love, friendship, loyalty, betrayal, and motherhood all tied up with some Southern charm. It had so many twists- just as I thought I had figured something out another twist led me a different way! I couldn’t put it down!
June 16, 2021
Set in deep south, this book speaks to my soul. I loved every second of this book and the relationships are familiar.
June 27, 2023
Loved it
September 21, 2018
I was drawn to Harlow by the premise of a second chance romance that takes place in sync with the heroine hitting 40. It’s a time when possibilities and fun times are all there to be embraced. Add to the mix a marriage breakup and the story had the scope for a plethora of scenarios. Harlow’s story was a reflection on discovering the truths surrounding her past and appreciating the love and friendship that had endured.
The story begins in the present with Harlow visiting her mother in a hospital. During her visit she catches up with an old estranged friend and from that moment on her life as she has known it starts to slowly unravel. At this point, I felt I was being eased into the story, a mystery was building and my interest was spiked. Then the tense is switched to the past to before Harlow married her now ex husband Patrick.
Patrick is a nasty piece of work and I didn’t enjoy reading about him at all. Harlow’s mother, Vivian, didn’t win me over either with her pushing for Harlow to marry Patrick. Vivian’s carer, however, was one of the shining lights in Terms of Surrender. Masterfully manipulating in the background, she brought hope into Harlow’s sad circumstances. For a girl born into a fortunate life, her life was far from rosey.
Readers with a familiarity with Southern etiquette and expectations may experience a different take then I did reading Harlow’s story. With little to no understanding of protocol other than snippets from previous books and my reading friend’s personal stories, the Southern angle didn’t resonate with me. Whether this had an impact on my connection with the overall story or not I am undecided.
Jade, her first love, threw me with his name. I have never encountered a male called Jade before and I found it hard to read him as being masculine. He was every bit a great guy and likeable character, I just needed to not hear him being called Jade, lol. The other character’s name that I stumbled over was Savannah when she was referred to as Van. It was clear it was the same person but it caught me off guard as she was referred to as both throughout the story.
My disconnection occurred through the past taking up two-thirds of the book. I hung in there, reading because I was eager to return to the present and find out what happened. I succumbed to temptation to skim occasionally in my haste to get past the backstory. By the time I reached the angle of the story I was hungering for my enthusiasm had faded. My reward was in discovering some of my hunches were correct along with the revelations I hadn’t expected. The secondary characters have appeal and I am sure their stories will be welcomed by readers who enjoyed Terms of Surrender.
The story begins in the present with Harlow visiting her mother in a hospital. During her visit she catches up with an old estranged friend and from that moment on her life as she has known it starts to slowly unravel. At this point, I felt I was being eased into the story, a mystery was building and my interest was spiked. Then the tense is switched to the past to before Harlow married her now ex husband Patrick.
Patrick is a nasty piece of work and I didn’t enjoy reading about him at all. Harlow’s mother, Vivian, didn’t win me over either with her pushing for Harlow to marry Patrick. Vivian’s carer, however, was one of the shining lights in Terms of Surrender. Masterfully manipulating in the background, she brought hope into Harlow’s sad circumstances. For a girl born into a fortunate life, her life was far from rosey.
Readers with a familiarity with Southern etiquette and expectations may experience a different take then I did reading Harlow’s story. With little to no understanding of protocol other than snippets from previous books and my reading friend’s personal stories, the Southern angle didn’t resonate with me. Whether this had an impact on my connection with the overall story or not I am undecided.
Jade, her first love, threw me with his name. I have never encountered a male called Jade before and I found it hard to read him as being masculine. He was every bit a great guy and likeable character, I just needed to not hear him being called Jade, lol. The other character’s name that I stumbled over was Savannah when she was referred to as Van. It was clear it was the same person but it caught me off guard as she was referred to as both throughout the story.
My disconnection occurred through the past taking up two-thirds of the book. I hung in there, reading because I was eager to return to the present and find out what happened. I succumbed to temptation to skim occasionally in my haste to get past the backstory. By the time I reached the angle of the story I was hungering for my enthusiasm had faded. My reward was in discovering some of my hunches were correct along with the revelations I hadn’t expected. The secondary characters have appeal and I am sure their stories will be welcomed by readers who enjoyed Terms of Surrender.
August 12, 2018
I absolutely loved this book! From the deep character development to the feeling you were transported to Charleston, you will not be able to put this book down. Not to mention plot twists. I can’t wait for the next book!
October 22, 2018
I was sent this book from the author for my honest review.
Romance is my go to genre for a comfort read and this novel was exactly what I was hoping for. I am a bit obsessed with Southern America. I have red a few novels in the past set in the south but I think Hart of Dixie cemented my love for all things southern. This book has all the drama that you would expect from a novel in that setting and characters that you will love.
This book is self published by its very talented author and it really reminds me as a reader the importance of looking beyond the big publishing houses. This book gets 5 tea cups from me because it deserved it. This book had heartbreak (what good romance doesn’t) but it left me so happy. I cannot wait to read the next book in this series.
Romance is my go to genre for a comfort read and this novel was exactly what I was hoping for. I am a bit obsessed with Southern America. I have red a few novels in the past set in the south but I think Hart of Dixie cemented my love for all things southern. This book has all the drama that you would expect from a novel in that setting and characters that you will love.
This book is self published by its very talented author and it really reminds me as a reader the importance of looking beyond the big publishing houses. This book gets 5 tea cups from me because it deserved it. This book had heartbreak (what good romance doesn’t) but it left me so happy. I cannot wait to read the next book in this series.
Displaying 1 - 29 of 29 reviews