Christyn's Reviews > Safe Beside You

*I received a free copy of this book through Goodreads First Reads. This in no way affects my following review.

Safe Beside You was a bit of an emotional ride for me, but I have to say I enjoyed seeing it through! I will say from the beginning it's not for everyone - there are elements of abuse, and there is a resulting effect from the abuse in this book that some readers may be particularly sensitive to. What really sold this book for me was the relationships and the characters - the main focus of the story. I wasn't always thrilled with what was going on but I could understand it.

Carrie and Brian made for a wonderful lead couple. Carrie's personality was strong, competent, confident and intelligent. Despite everything that was going on Carrie could take the lead, didn't panic or whine or complain which I appreciated. As the book went on and she returned to civilization, her character changed to suit the circumstances. I didn't like who she was when she was with Quentin. She began to question him, herself and what she thought she wanted and I just wanted so badly for her to see what the people around her could. But you can't make someone in an unhealthy relationship see the truth before they're ready. They have to realize the truth on their own, this in particularly stood out for me because something similar happened with my brother (except without the physical abuse, he was with a particularly controlling, jealous woman for about a year before finally ending it). Carrie's strength starts showing itself again towards the end after Quentin takes things too far. Brian, was a great guy, he and Carrie were perfect for each other. Brian struggled with his feelings for Carrie because of her 'taken' status. Driven, kind and supportive he was a great male lead. Watching his relationships with Carrie was both very sweet and kind of painful - especially when she was still with her fiance. It really makes a difference when you really love someone as to what you're willing to do - as it showed with the very distinct differences we saw with Carrie/Quentin and Carrie/Brian.

Baron - the beautiful black and white siberian husky was wonderful. He didn't play as big a part in the story as I thought he would but I was always happy to see him (I admit to having wanted to see him take a piece out of Quentin). There was also some wonderful side characters like Sofie & Woody (Carrie's neighbor/best friend and her husband), Carrie's Aunt Harriet, and even Brian's roommates - particularly Blake. Quentin was awful and got off far easier than I would've liked, but I have a vivid imagination and am already picturing what possible fate awaits him in prison.

The conflict of the story was (mostly) internal, among the characters and played out well. The only thing I would have changed is the pacing/focus of parts of the story. It was a strong start, but in the middle it lagged a little. I would've preferred slightly less focus on when Carrie was with Quentin and more on the aftermath of that relationship as she healed, but that may just be me.

Overall, I enjoyed the story and look forward to reading more from this author. 3.5 Stars