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Craigslist Lover

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Do you believe in divine interventions?

McKenzie O'Sullivan was in a dark place in life. Each day she lived in survival mode not knowing if her husband Wayne would come home in a good or bad mood. Everything she hoped and dreamed of was taking away by the one man that promised to love her until death do them part.

Everything happens for a reason, right? What would you do if you had no way out, and nothing to lose? Would you take a chance and risk it all? A personal classified changed McKenzie's life forever, but does she really know who "is" behind the screen? Or is it just her loneliness believing everything written on her shattered heart.

WARNING: This book contains adult content and violence.

228 pages, Kindle Edition

First published September 25, 2016

About the author

Ancelli

34 books194 followers
I married my best friend, the love of my life, we have two beautiful daughters, and I love serving my country. On my spare time, I love scribbling and making my words come to life. I love writing romance stories about couples that go through trials and come out stronger. Love is never easy, but it's worth all the hard work. I would like to hear your opinion whether good or bad, you can leave your comments at ancelli55@live.com or visit my Facebook page http://www.facebook.com/pages/Interra...

Thank you,
Ancelli

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5 stars
237 (59%)
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101 (25%)
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44 (11%)
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 72 reviews
Profile Image for Mspraise50.
1,597 reviews65 followers
September 27, 2016
Another great story by Ancelli. She takes real life issues and writes romances stories around them.

This is Toby (Tee) and McKenzie (Kenzie's) story. They meet online on Craigslist. I know you can fall in love online because it happened to me. I enjoyed this party of the story a lot. Kenzie and Tee are only looking to be friends as Kenzie is a married woman with a child. Her marriage is not a happy one. Her marriage is abusive. The story explores this issue. Some people believe that women who allow themselves to be abused are weak women. I personally don't believe that, I think it takes a certain kind of strength to endure that kind of treatment especially if you are doing it to protect your children. If you have triggers in this area then please be mindful that this book explores this issue.

I love Tee he is a wonderful friend to Kenzie and becomes her saviour. He has to be patient and consistently loving and understanding in order to win Kenzie because of all she has endured. He changes his life so that he can be all he needs to be to demonstrate to her that he will love her no matter what and not harm her.

Another great story of how true love can overcome any barrier.

Profile Image for Dawn.
14 reviews
September 29, 2016
I think I may have found my new book boo

Mckenzie's story pulls at your heart strings as is the case with all Ancelli books.
Ancelli tackled a very difficult subject in this book, and I'm very happy she did.
Mckenzie suffered silently for years at the hands of her husband. Someone who promised to love and cherish her, and never spoke a word of it to anyone. It was very hard to read some of the scenes but I believe those scenes were very necessary to convey Mckenzie's absolute terror at the hands of her husband. Domestic violence is a very real and heartbreaking reality in today's society. Ancelli did not sugar coat it, she portrayed very well the horrors that come with being a battered woman. I felt every bit of what Mckenzie was going through.

I fell in love with "Tee" and wish more situations of domestic violence would turn out the way Mckenzie's story did. Sadly that is not the case for most. "Tee" was not only her salvation but showed her how a woman should be loved and treated by her man. Their journey was not rushed which I really appreciated. "Tee" gave Mckenzie the time she needed to heal. He stayed by her side until she was ready to be loved by him. "Tee" showed Mckenzie how a real man treats and cares for his family.

"Tee" and Mckenzie may be my new favorite Ancelli couple.

Dawn L.
Profile Image for Elle1986.
456 reviews31 followers
September 29, 2016
Alright!!!

Welp I really enjoyed this book, I think I fell in love with Toby before the author even told us what he actually looked like and then once I found out... just added to the love lol.

Now.... In the beginning, I really really felt for Mckenzie, I mean no one should have to deal with a man that is so damn screwed up... My heart actually hurt for her character and I was rooting for her all the way.

Then around like 85% mark....she started to get on my nerves. Yep she started to annoy the hell out of me for some reason and I found myself rolling my eyes at times. It's something about her character towards the end that hit me the wrong way. I think it happened right around the time that toby told her she should see someone, after she dismissed him.... yeah that is when I was like okay I'm lowkey over this chick.

But all in all I enjoyed the read.

lata folks!
Profile Image for Fashionista .
358 reviews59 followers
November 7, 2016
I have been a long time fan of this author. Kenzie and Tee's story was sooooo touching and poignant. Toby Wheeler is genuine, sexy as hell, and takes care of his business. And every time he calls her "Beautiful" just leaves me breathless! This is a MUST READ! I'm ready for Eric and Shanell's story!
Profile Image for Tiffany.
419 reviews16 followers
April 5, 2018
This was my first book by this author.

I’ve had this book in my TBR list for a very long time and just now got around to it.

McKenzie was a mother who was verbally and physically abused by her husband, Wayne. Toby put out an add on Craigslist, looking for a platonic friend. Kenzie needed someone to chat with and ended up responding to his add. We later find out that the add was a dare. Anyways, they build a chat relationship and their feelings got involved. The beatings got so bad that she called Toby. Toby went to her house, beat Wayne up and took Kenzie and Caleb from the house. That is where Kenzie started to get her life back

I did like the character development between Toby and Kenzie. I will also agree with others saying that parts of the book was “churchy”. I’m not sure how one could quote “No weapon formed against me shall prosper”....to “yes, keep f*cking me...” pretty much in the same paragraph😒. Doing the most 🙄. There was also some parts of the book where I couldn’t tell which character was talking.

I skipped the last 3 or 4 chapters of the book. It was so boring and kept dragging.

On to the next....❤️📖
Profile Image for Lisa Tetting.
Author 4 books68 followers
November 7, 2016
This book takes you from Heartbreaking in the beginning to Heartwarming in the end. I am so #teamtoby! Wayne was the worse kind of man there is. The lowlife put his hands on his wife, and not in a loving manner. I felt so sad for Kinzie and was cheering for her to find the strength to leave for good. When 'batman' shows up to save her I wanted to shout. And when the author revealed what Hollywood star he resembled, I almost passed out. That man is fine. Not only was Toby good looking, the man had the kind of spirit that makes a woman fall in love. I wanted that HEA so badly. Good read.
Profile Image for CoCoFierce .
118 reviews4 followers
October 3, 2016
***3.5 Stars***

When I read the title of the book Craigslist Lover I honestly was put off. I didn’t know what to expect my mind went to the true life story of the Craigslist Killer. But you know the saying, “you can’t judge a book by its cover” well in my case you can’t judge a book by its title. This story is so much deeper than just someone searching for online affection. McKenzie needed Tee (Toby) he gave her a freedom that she never would have found on her own. Going back to that name Toby in my mind I had to just call him by the name he gave online because that name was just awful.

This story was an emotional read and discusses the issues of domestic violence. Usually you read these stories and authors just touches the surface but Ancelli did push herself in this book and you see her growth as an author. The author explores the emotional side of domestic violence from both sides. McKenzie’s ex was a real piece of work but as you read the story you find more about his character and his emotional issues. Redemption is offered but it is a long road ahead. Also, readers you get to see some old characters from the author’s previous series.

Now don’t get me wrong this story isn’t all drama it’s a love story and as McKenzie and Tee develop a relationship we realize that they are really saving each other. The mother in-law added a bit of sass to the story. I will say that for me the story kind of drug on for a little bit and at times was frustrating e.g. she lashes out when the offer of emotional help is brought up, he leaves to get himself together, all of the texting, and some situations I felt were brought up was just added unnecessary drama. This wasn’t my favorite story from the author but it does show how far her work has come. I don’t know what it was but I had a hard time finishing the story. Although, I am glad I did because the h.e.a. was well worth it. One of the biggest things that I loved about this story is that everyone came full circle. There wasn’t one issue that was brought up that wasn’t dissolved by the end of the story. I will say that there were minor issues with the story such as editing. One of my biggest pet peeves is when people say that someone did a complete 360 well it’s actually a 180. In the case of McKenzie’s ex the author said he did a 360 well if he did that he would be the same abusive monster so he did a 180 and got help and became a better father. I know, I know, silly it’s just one of those grammar things that drive me crazy. All in all although this wasn’t one of my favorites the author did do a great job writing about an issue that she feels passionate about. Please judge this book for yourselves and not based on this one review.
Profile Image for Kelly .
406 reviews9 followers
October 1, 2016
Emotional topic

Ugly cry, anger, hope, and love....all the emotions this book wrung out of me! Ancelli always speak on relevant topics with such depth and realness, you know it's either been researched or it's being relived.

Toby and McKenzie came into each other's lives by chance or divine intervention and they were able to help each other realize their full potential.

When Wayne violently abused Kenzie, the tears flowed viciously while I read that scene. The fear and hopelessness she felt made me wonder if my family member felt the same when she was attacked and murdered by her husband. I had to stop reading at this point because one, I couldn't see and two, the pain never goes away.

Whenever an author can draw you into the story where you're feeling EVERYTHING the characters are, that's the sign of a GREAT storyteller. Kudos to Author Ancelli.....well done!!
9 reviews1 follower
August 14, 2018
McKenzie meet Tee on Craigslist and begin an friendship with him. She confided in him that she is in an abusive relationship. She realized she getting attached to Tee and decided to end communications with him because she is married. However a situation happen and she need Tee’s help. Tee come through her and become more than just a friend for her but he also realized that she time to find herself. That’s where you see the growth of the characters and the love they have for each other. It is a great book and would encourage anybody to read this book. I’m this book you with see having a mustard seed of faith is all that need. God is Good!!!!

This was an awesome book. I was captivated from the first page to the the end. I fell so in love with the strength of the characters. McKenzie was my girl. Her faith in God was awesome. With everything she endured within life, her husband, and her child, she never stop believing that God had her back. It just want to made me shout at the goodness of God.

Let’s not forget about Toby. I love him. He had her back from the moment they start chatting. When he came to recused, dude has my heart from there. I loved when he gave her the distant she needed to find herself but at the same time letting her know I love you and I’m here for you. He was there for her always encouraging, and loving her at the same time.

I also love Wayne’s Mother, Carmela. She didn’t hold any punches when it came to her son. She let him know he was wrong and but she still love him as a parent should.

I truly enjoyed this book. I normally don’t write a review but I had to this time. I would definitely recommend this book. The ending was just as awesome as the beginning. The growth of the characters was astounding.
Profile Image for Kat.
566 reviews103 followers
September 18, 2022
This was my first book by Ancelli. I’d never heard of this author before and found her through a challenge I was doing in a group. The book deals with some serious subjects and their done so sensitively. The book surprisingly also had humour mixed in which I enjoyed. Some of the words written down were so powerful and heart wrenching that I wanted to reach in and hug the characters.

I love anything related to social media and the first thing that attracted me to it was the title.. This was a quick read and I devoured it in two days. I’d highly recommend this read to anyone looking for something with a difference
Profile Image for *Lisa*.
396 reviews44 followers
October 8, 2018
I was interested at first, but this got more and more boring for me.
Profile Image for Genevieve Woods.
Author 12 books53 followers
March 31, 2020
5.0 out of 5 stars recommended to anyone that needs to know they are beautiful and were not made
This review is from: Craigslist Lover (Kindle Edition)
I was drawn in at the first sentence. Ancelli has delivered an emotional story about domestic violence. The scenes were well written and vivid, I could feel the blows, I cringed, I cried. Somehow, I laughed because everytime my Kindle screen was covered with tears, Ancelli gave me a reason to smile. Toby was everything you need in a hero, and he was not the typical billionaire, he was a savior. Toby risked it all to save someone else. What a selfless character he was,there should be more heroes like him. More importantly, he helped Mackenzie rediscover she was worth fighting for and worthy to be saved. I applaud you Author Ancelli for writing this dark, yet inspirational story. I loved it and recommend it to anyone that needs to know they are beautiful and were not made to be a punching bag
Profile Image for Tish.
1 review
September 10, 2017
The book was sweet!

This book got three stars because it lacked any character development. Also, the love the characters constantly professed was a 'bit' too unrealistic and sickening.

The narrative is based on a sensitive subject, making it tricky to write about as it can go either way. I think the author handled it well by finding that balance. It was not intensified, especially when comparing it to the growing relationship between the hero and heroine.

Overall great job!
Profile Image for Mysoz.
57 reviews
November 23, 2016
Bright spots

This was my first book by this author. My rating is actually 3.5 stars because of the bright spots and swoon worthy quotes sprinkled throughout the book. The let down for me was the typos and at times clustered writing style which made me question the editing skills of the editor. Regardless I still absolutely loved the overall storyline.
490 reviews8 followers
October 9, 2016
A necessity

I repulsive Ancelli's books. This one in particular hit home. There are so many men, women and children who are abused by the ones that is supposed to love them. Thank you for going deep into the psyche of the abused, it's a necessity in this day and time.
Profile Image for Ivory.
94 reviews
October 1, 2016
Can't lie. I really enjoyed this one...even with the few errors, the story was good. I loved Tee(Toby) and the way he handled Kenzie(Mckenzie)I hope Eric and Shanelle get their own story too
Profile Image for Pearline.
377 reviews16 followers
October 3, 2016
Ancelli continues to impress me as an author. This was a wonderful story of a woman overcoming emotional and physical abuse. I highly recommend this story.
Profile Image for Sharon D..
78 reviews
November 13, 2016
Extremely good book! I don't normally read books concerning domestic violence because I was once a victim of abuse. However, this didn't push the envelope too much but at the same time raised awareness. Toby was absolutely adorable. I liked how Ancelli developed Toby & Mackenzie's relationship over time. So many social issues were addressed but done tastefully. Good read overall.
32 reviews
December 13, 2020
Good read

I enjoyed this book! So many different emotions but a good read overall. The only thing that “put me off” was all the song references in like every other page it seemed. Thought it was an inspirational book for a moment with the many gospel songs and biblical references but again good read!
Profile Image for CLorraine.
1,448 reviews5 followers
August 30, 2021
Love Finds A Way

After years of domestic abuse, McKenzie had almost given up. Her husband had systematically removed all of her support systems. She was alone with her abuser and her one bright light, her son. One day on a whim she answered an ad for friendship. McKenzie didn’t know she was receiving a life line….awesome, inspirational story!
Profile Image for Carolette Eady.
105 reviews
September 28, 2021
I don't particularly do the chat line thing per se, but I really enjoyed it in this book. This book has some serious characters, some serious triggers, do not let the cover fool you. If you are a new beginnings romance lover, then this is your book. Ancelli as you all know is an awesome author this book just amplifies it!
Profile Image for tracey fludd.
777 reviews6 followers
June 12, 2023
Great read

Enjoy this story. McKenzie truly thought she had married the man of her dreams but indeed was married to a control devilish of a little boy in a mans body, it was always about control for Wayne, but the day she was searching yet again for furniture that he destroyed she stumbled across an ad that she never knew would save her and her sons life in the future.
71 reviews2 followers
October 14, 2017
Loved this book!!!

I have ready book this author has written. This book ranks as one of the best. She took a VERY sensitive issue and made it palatable with facts and hope. Makes Craigslist look like a good idea.
534 reviews2 followers
August 21, 2019
Romance. It became a boring at times. I really just don't like the form it was written in. I don't like when they call the characters by name. It was hard too follow a lot in the beginning, not knowing who was talking.
Profile Image for Bree.
427 reviews25 followers
August 26, 2022
This was a great story about how a woman escapes and overcomes years of abuse and finds love an strength along the way through her Craigslist chat boo. I enjoyed this one a lot. That Toby is just the sweetest.
Profile Image for Mia Morgan.
1,118 reviews26 followers
September 27, 2017
Good

It was good. The character development should have been better. It was still a great read. I enjoyed it. My First book by this author.
12 reviews
April 26, 2021
Awesome

Always a second chance to do over... so many of us experience abuse in different forms.. great read and inspirational 💯💯💯love it
December 13, 2022
Best book.

This book is the best I had read in a long
time. I absolutely could not put it down. I had read it in one day. thank you. Geneva gonzales
March 8, 2023
so different yet so good!

I had not read a book that started out like this one, but it was so meaningful and interesting. I was pulling for them.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 72 reviews

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