Forbidden. Commanding. Mysterious. Beau Rochester has an entire house full of secrets. And those secrets are putting Jane Mendoza in danger.
She fell in love with the one man she can’t have. She should leave Maine to protect her heart, but the thread refuses to be severed. The brooding Mr. Rochester and his grieving niece are more than her job. They’re her new family.
She races against time to find answers and protect the people she loves. The cliffside grows dark with the misdeeds of the past. Her heart and her sanity fight a battle, but they are both at risk.
Will Mr. Rochester learn to trust Jane? And will that trust destroy her?
About the Author
Skye Warren is the New York Times bestselling author of dangerous romance. Her books have sold over one million copies. She makes her home in Texas with her loving family, sweet dogs, and evil cat.
Sign-up to Skye’s newsletter here for the latest release updates and offers.
Disclosure: I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book which I received from the author. All views expressed are only my honest opinion.
Published on: 13 April 2021 Published by: William Morrow Type: HEA Genre: Women’s Romance, Romantic Comedy, Contemporary Women’s Fiction Author: Sally Thorne Read: 06 June 2021 Shelved: 11 June 2021 Rating: 3.5 / 5 stars ⭐⭐⭐⭐
Dazzle (n): Brightness that blinds someone temporarily.
Position Vacant: Two ancient old women residing at Providence Retirement Villa seek male assistant for casual exploitation and good-natured humiliation. Duties include boutique shopping, fast-food fetching, and sincerely rendered flattery. Good looks a bonus—but we aren’t picky.
An advertisement has been placed (again!) by the wealthy and eccentric Parloni Sisters. The salary is generous and the employers are 90 years old, so how hard could the job be? Well, none have lasted longer than a week. Most boys leave in tears.
Ruthie Midona will work in Providence’s front office, and be at the Parloni’s beck and call, forever. That’s sort of her life plan. If Ruthie can run the place in her almost-retired bosses’ absence, with no hijinks/hiccups, she has a shot at becoming the new manager. She might also be able to defend her safe little world from Prescott Development, the new buyer of the prime site. Maybe after all that, she can find a cute guy to date. All she needs to do is stay serious—and that’s what she does best.
Until, one day, someone dazzling blows into town.
Teddy Prescott devotes his life to sleeping, tattooing, and avoiding seriousness. When Teddy needs a place to crash, he makes a deal with his developer dad. Teddy can stay in one of Providence’s on-site maintenance cottages—right next door to an unimpressed Ruthie—but only if he works there and starts to grow up.
Ruthie knows how this sweetly selfish rich boy can earn his keep—and be out of her hair in under a week. After all, there is a position vacant…
Review
Ruthie “Ruth” Midona is the assistant manager of the Providence Retirement Home. She handles ALL things concerning retirement home, even down to the golden bonnet tortoise that seems to have populated in the retirement home. She is currently the OIC (officer-in-charge) as Sylvia, the manager, is on vacation. Juggling so many things for the retirement home, Ruth has a routine down and is happy keeping a “system” down by a surprise visit by the new owners of the retirement home for a detailed audit in preparation of “redevelopment.”
Theodore “Teddy” Prescott is a carefree man who has commitment issues financially and personally. He’s the total opposite to the family he is associated with but needs to find ways to prove to them that there is more than one way to earn a living. He wound up in the retirement home that Ruth’s working at and found a job there – an unconventional at that. Ruth’s first impression of Teddy was not a good one. He needed her help to get out of a sticky situation!
Second First Impression is my first encounter with the author. It is written from the first-person POV only – Ruth’s. It was a challenging read for me. Note that the writing is excellent and clear. My difficulty is due to the writing technique used for the book for its effect. It was harder to grasp the thoughts and concerns of others around Ruth, and the only clue I had is what they tell her.
This book is a slow-burn book with interesting characters that make this a perfect rom-com, but it was tough to connect with Ruthie and Teddy. I had trouble connect with the characters, even if the story is an interesting one. The chemistry was not very evident, but I know it’s there. Because of this, it took me longer to get through the book. Ironically, I connected more with the supporting casts like the Parloni sisters and Melanie, the temp. They were the comic relief in the story and were successful in hooking me to finish the book.
As I review my “quote notes,” I realized there were so many quotable quotes in critical areas in the book. It was said at the right time and right place that made an immediate impact. I am frustrated that “the feeling” didn’t last too long until the later part of the book. Check out some below:-
“Don’t seduce Ruthie if I don’t plan on sticking around, because she’s a tender treasure that must be protected at all cost.”
This passage implies the love and care of people around Ruthie that she didn’t realize. It brings forth her determination to find a way to keep the retirement home running, but how is her dilemma. There is also the parallel implication on the care given to the bonnet tortoises around the retirement home.
“I wish you could get a second first impression of me, but I can’t work out how to do it.”
I felt the frustration of the character here. It chimes well with the book’s title, and I remember falling off my chair with that comment. It raises the vulnerability of a supposed carefree character and seals the deal! It is the turning point of the book for Ruthie (and the readers).
“When you eventually leave, please do it really gently, okay?”
I love this one the most since Ruthie is an honest character, and yet, she is realistic about what is going on and will happen when Teddy moves on from the retirement home. She is no selfish to ask him to stay, even if he might if she asked. She is willing to let him prove himself to the world that he is trying his best.
My favorite part among the twenty-seven (plus an epilogue) chapter book has to be by the twenty-third since it shows the characters going full circle. It shows with the first twenty chapters as I was following Ruth’s train of thought without considering anyone else. I think this is the part that had me change my mind about the book. Those few chapters before the end picked up the pace to ensure a very satisfying HEA.
In summary, Second First Impression made an impression on this critical reader. I recommend this book for slow-burn, second chance, “coming-of-age” themed tropes. There are many “growing up” and “trusting-the-world-again” moments going on between Ruth and Teddy. The supporting characters were stellar in their “ways” in pushing Ruth and Teddy to realize how wonderful they are individually and with each other. I may not immediately relate to the main characters, but I did in the end as I look back. I got to check out the quotes that I highlighted, and they are a lot. Readers entering this book should have an open mind (also open heart) since the book can be slow (to some), but the author wants the connection and depth of relationships to be deeper through a more leisurely pace. Also, given Ruth’s background and experience, this element justified everything for the book.
“Take it from someone who had a dream once and never pursued it. You’ve got to keep going. Keep pushing.”
— Second First Impression, Sally Thorne
About the Author
Sally Thorne is the USA Today bestselling author of the office rom-com The Hating Game (2016) . It is her debut novel that has sold in over twenty-five countries and is being made into a major motion picture, to be directed by Peter Hutchings.
The Hating Game was named in the top 20 romance novels of 2016 by the Washington Post and was a top ten finalist in the Goodreads Choice Awards romance category. It has been cited as a book that has reinvigorated the romantic comedy genre.
Sally’s much anticipated second novel, 99 Percent Mine, was released in January 2019 by William Morrow Books. It debuted on the USA Today Bestseller list and was featured by Goodreads as one of the top 28 hit books for the first half of 2019.
Sally has signed another two book contract and is currently working on Book 4!
Sally Thorne lives in Canberra, Australia and spends her days writing, reading, drinking cups of tea and obeying the every whim of Delia the Pug and her paint Quarter Horse, Louie. She lives with her husband in a house filled with vintage toys, too many cushions and a haunted dollhouse.
Disclosure: I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book which I received from the author. All views expressed are only my honest opinion.
Published on: 25 May 2021 Type: HEA, series, standalone Genre: Drama, Contemporary Romance, Suspense/Mystery Author: Marni Mann Read: 14 May 2021 Shelved: 18 May 2021 Rating: 5/ 5 stars ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
You never forget your first love, even when they become just a memory.
There was before. When we were together, when we were happy. When we had nothing but dreams. When not a single bad thing could ever happen because we were young and in love.
And there was after. When the unthinkable occurs, how do you count time, knowing how precious it is? When dreams turn to nightmares, how do you wake up every day and choose to go on? When you have a chance to save another, how can you not?
Even if it changes everything. Even if it destroys you.
A harrowing, heartbreaking dark contemporary romance from USA Today best-selling author Marni Mann, the third installment in the Moments in Boston series of stand-alones that explores the darkest nights and brightest dawns of the heart. A book that will leave you aching … and looking over your shoulder.
Review
Disclosure:Do you need to read the series from the start to understand or appreciate the series?
No, you do not have to read the series in sequence or all of them. The common factor in the series is, of course, Boston and the now-infamous (and devastating) marathon that rocked the nation: the characters’ past, impact leading up to the attack, and the aftermath. There may be some connection, but not a requirement to jump into the series anytime. This series still brings chills whenever my mind goes back to that time, and although it is an important event, the story focuses more on the main character’s lives with the aftermath. There is mention of Book 1’s characters due to mutual friends, but the main focus is on Ashe and Pearl. This book can be read alone without compromising on the characters, their story, and the revelations the author wants to impart. BUT why won’t you NOT want to read the whole series? Let me tell you that each one has a unique plot, conflict, and conclusions that you will not fathom and will haunt you for days!
Before coming into this series – I was giddy with excitement to get my hands on this book. I have been a big fan of the author since discovering this series, and she has NOT let me down!
Pearl is a unique character. She is a straight-laced and focused young lady. Driven to succeed and “leave their neighborhood,” Pearl pushes herself to be the best for herself and Grams in this pursuit. She unexpectedly “bumps” into Ashe, a schoolmate who later becomes more to her than readers would expect. Not only does he opens her heart to love and relationships, but he later unknowingly helps her survive one of the most complex situations she will face in her life.
Ashe is a med-school-bound guy who has his aspirations of being a surgeon. He met Pearl in school, pre-med, and was captivated with her. His persistence in pursuing her brought about an unfamiliar yet warm side in him that he supported Pearl in her endeavors to support her and Grams while helping her focus on her studies. They were a great team in supporting each other until something ominous happened that shattered both their lives.
Baby, love doesn’t shackle you, it makes you fly. And if I know you, you wouldn’t spend time with someone who would lick you in a cage. You’d be with a man who would fasten stronger wings to your back and point you in the direction of the sun.
— When Darkness Ends, Marni Mann
When Darkness Ends is from a multi-person POV. Given this, each character’s voices and POV are clear, concise, and gut-wrenchingly brilliant!
The author made sure each scene/chapter provides readers the “suspense” and sometimes “terror” of the moment. Many “events” to take in as the book deals with heavy topics like emotional, physical, and mental abuse, so take this as a warning. However, the author did not dive into much detail because that’s not the story’s point; instead, hope and love are. That’s what I love about this author’s narrative style: directing us to how she wants us to view the situation until the final chapter. Readers are only privy to what the author wants us to know and see – jumping between past and present. It might get us all angst than expected but keep the faith that there is a point, and the ending turned out “more than expected” beautifully.
The book is a lengthy read that spans more than a decade of events but very engaging – a real page-turner! As readers dive into the chronological flashbacks and events, these “moments-in-time approach” will have them connect and empathize with them. These characters will ingrain themselves into our heads and hearts forever.
I love how the author talks about the growing pains and life struggles of her characters:- self-acceptance, self-worth, survival, then adding to that – a truckload of mystery, suspense, and plot twists without spoiling anything. The story will hit readers when they realize that the character’s “past selves” would not be able to wrap their heads around how they ended up in their present state, based on their initial hopes and dreams.
The steamy scenes are steamy that they can steam my dumplings within minutes! They are “blushingly hot,” which makes me envious of Pearl – a great segway to the sad moments that took center stage and enveloped me further than I expected. I wept for days with what happened and the revelations that ensued when the bombing happened.
As expected, I cannot rave enough on this since the series is not the same thing for each book. The author has outdone herself yet again in this third installment of the Boston Memories series. When Darkness Ends is a highly recommended read for readers who love their angst, second chances, and “underdog” stories. I have been looking forward to this book since the author announced it. I have been following this series closely since the author has a distinctive storytelling style that will captivate and surprise readers each time – filled with mystery, suspense, and romance that will make readers clamoring for more. Many of the details in the book brought about my thought-provoking side seeps into my subconsciousness – imprinting itself like an elegant tattoo. This book is a home run with all the emotions known in the dictionary then brings readers back to reality – that love in its purest forms will find a way!
Life is going to happen; you don’t have the power to stop it, dollface. So, tuck your body into a ball and roll with each bump.
— When Darkness Ends, Marni Mann
About Marni Mann
Marni Mann, USA Today Bestselling author, knew she was going to be a writer since middle school. While other girls her age were daydreaming about teenage pop stars, Marni was fantasizing about penning her first novel. She crafts sexy, titillating stories that weave together her love of darkness, mystery, passion, and human emotions. A New Englander at heart, she now lives in Sarasota, Florida, with her husband and their two dogs, who have been characters in her books. When she’s not nose deep in her laptop, working on her next novel, she’s scouring for chocolate, sipping wine, traveling, or devouring fabulous books.
Disclosure: All views expressed are only my honest opinion.
Published on: February 10, 2020 Published by: Carina Press Type: HEA, series Genre: Multicultural Romance, Women’s Fiction Author: Ruby Lang Read: 26 April 2021 Shelved: 24 May 2021 Rating: 5 / 5 stars ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Content Warning: on-page sex; divorce; complex family relationships; chronic illness; infertility and endometriosis.
~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~
ROOMMATE WANTED to share a gorgeous sun-filled apartment in Central Harlem. Must love cats. No ex-husbands or wives need apply.
Seventeen years ago, different dreams pulled Simon Mizrahi and Lana Kuo apart. But when Lana takes a position as a chef back in Manhattan, her apartment search puts her right in her ex-husband’s path. Music teacher Simon is also hunting for a new place to live, and when Lana proposes they be platonic roomies, well…it’s not the worst idea he’s ever heard.
A sunny uptown two-bedroom sounds far more appealing than the cramped, noisy space where he’s currently struggling to work. Still, Simon has seen firsthand that Lana’s a flight risk, so he agrees on a trial basis.
Three months. With strict boundaries.
Living together again feels wonderfully nostalgic, but when the ex-couple’s lingering feelings rise to the surface, the rules go out the window.
Of course, chemistry was never their problem. But while Simon’s career feels back on solid footing, Lana is still sorting out what she wants. With their trial period soon coming to an end, they’ll have to decide if their living arrangement was merely a sexy trip down memory lane or a reunion meant to last.
Review
Love this message from Ruby to readers of the book: “To those of us who never get it right the first time” –> perfectly summarized!
Lana Kai is back from culinary school and needs a place to settle that is convenient and near her work – a cook. She found the perfect spot, but space and rent were too much for her to shoulder alone. Lana was in a bind and needs to find a place soon to take on a great job. In comes the most unlikely person that could solve her problem – her ex-husband, Simon, who she bumped into an open house viewing.
Simon Mizrahi is a music teacher and has lived at his apartment for as long as he could remember – (maybe) too long. He is still under a rent control apartment dilapidating faster than the economy recovers from the Asian Crisis.
House Rules might sound light and easy, but it’s anything but. Coming into the book, the main characters of Simon and Lana have a lot between them. Their familiarity, past union, and knowing more about each other than anyone outside sharing space and proximity can turn out into a big revelation or disaster. Some heavy topics mentioned in the book, like fertility, self-worth, self-love, forgiveness, acceptance, etc., all rolled into sixteen chapters that may trigger some, so take this as a disclosure.
I love the internal conflicts between Lana and Simon. Their relationship kept developing even after being separated for years. They grew separately then now, maturing together as roomies. I appreciate the author showing us that second chances do not discriminate between age or culture when two people are right for each other.
Simon and Lana have tried being together early in their youth, but the relationship did not work. They got a divorce, and Lana moved worlds apart. As a result, to pursue her passion and find herself. You would think that Lana would have been happy and stayed where she was, out of the country, and find her happiness with someone else. That wasn’t it for this book. Lana and Simon have their chemistry intact and steady after many years. They met and got married early but lost themselves as a couple. They know deep down that they were each other’s “soulmates,” but the timing was off. They needed to grow separately to be perfect for each other. How they found their way back to each other is a cute and endearing story after all these years.
I am frustrated with Simon. He did not realize that he has a strained relationship with his sister, Maxine, because of his “inflexible” mindset. He is a focused individual and expects the same from the people around him. Simon, being a perfectionist with a reasonably closed mindset, has caused his relationships to suffer or strain. Unfortunately, no one told him about it until late into his 40s; else, he could have salvaged so many things.
Lana was lovely! I liked her – A LOT!
In the face of thing was imploding nearing the end, Lana’s newfound confidence and conviction enabled her to stay positive. It did not distract her into self-pity with what happened and instead made her accept that things can go wrong. She was able to set everything into perspective and stir her back to the positives.
In summary, House Rules is my most favorite book in the Uptown series by the author. I love second chance themes, but more so, if characters come back and grow and mature to prove they will be in the relationship in the long haul this time around. There has to be a “separation period” to find themselves than to lose their identity as a couple. I love how Lana found the strength to pull herself out of an unsatisfying situation, made changes for her betterment, and found a way to come back and realize the good in what she left behind (that it was undeniable and meant-to-be). She makes others around her do the same – constantly leaping to self-improvement each day.
“It doesn’t have to be limited to what I have right now. You make me want more. You make me brave enough to ask for more, even if it means asking it of myself.”
— House Rules, Ruby Lang
About the Author
Ruby Lang is the author of the acclaimed Practice Perfect series and the Uptown series. Her alter ego, Mindy Hung, wrote about romance novels (among other things) for The Toast. Her work has also appeared in The New York Times, The Walrus, Bitch, and other fine venues. She enjoys running (slowly), reading (quickly), and ice cream (at any speed). She lives in New York with a small child and a medium-sized husband.
The Good Stuff I was born in Vancouver, Canada, and raised in Winnipeg. When I was younger, I wanted to be fast-talking journalist Hildy Johnson from His Girl Friday but lacked verbal speed (and the ability to look good in hats) so I became a hatless and hapless editor instead. I have a scar on my leg from zipping down a banister in fifth grade. I also once slid down the escalator banister at the Westin Emerald Plaza in San Diego but sustained no lasting damage—except perhaps to my dignity.
Published Date: The Despair of Strangers Author:Heather Topham Wood Publication date: 9 March 2021 Genres: Adult, Contemporary Romance, Saga Fiction, Mystery Romance Read: 01 May 2021 Shelved: 02 May 2021 Rating: 4.5 / 5 stars ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️½ Get it here: Amazon Kindle | Amazon paperback | Bookbub | Goodreads
Synopsis
I don’t know how to do this without you anymore…
The text message wasn’t meant for Alyssa. After ending her engagement to a liar and cheater, she left everything behind, moving into a new apartment and changing her number. She didn’t expect to feel the words reach inside her, picking at scars never likely to heal.
I miss everything about you and I won’t move on. I can’t move on…
The messages kept coming, telling a story of loss that made Alyssa’s pain feel small. When she answered the texts, she formed a bond with Derek. Derek who was not writing to Alyssa at all, but trying to deal with his grief by sending messages to his dead fiancée.
All day today I was surrounded by people and I felt absolutely empty. Like when you went away, you took all of me with you….
Derek and Alyssa became friends first, then something more developed—a connection that felt like love, but one that left them both scared, uncertain of second chances. Alyssa wanted a future with Derek, but she wondered when Emily’s ghost would finally let him go.
Excerpt:
The clothing retrieved from my dresser slipped out of my hands as I heard large footfalls on my stairs outside of my apartment. A second later, a persistent knocking could be heard on my front door. Shocked, I stomped through the apartment, throwing open the door without checking who was behind it. There was only one possible person.
I expected contrition, Derek at my door with his tail between his legs. But no. Derek stood before me, breathing heavily, with an expression of pure fury. “What the fuck was that about?” he hissed at me, before walking around me into my apartment.
I sneered at him after slamming the door shut. How dare he walk in my apartment as if he owned the place? “What are you doing here?”
“What am I doing here? You left, Alyssa! You go to the bathroom and then fucking disappear! You don’t even explain yourself—sending some vague text about not asking for any of this. And then you don’t even answer the phone, which is a quality about you that is really starting to piss me off.” He threw his hands up in frustration, his eyes blazing at me. He couldn’t be that dense not to realize why I was upset.
“How could you? How could you treat me like I was nothing in front of Emily’s parents? How could you introduce me as a friend?” My voice was low, but furious, my hands at my sides in tight fists.
The anger in his face didn’t abate at my accusations. “What did you expect me to do? I had no idea they would be there,” he said irritably.
“I’ll never be treated like a nothing again, Derek. Not by anyone.” I held up my chin proudly, saying my words with the deepest conviction.
“You can’t be serious?” He ran his fingers in frustration through his thick dark hair before continuing,“I say the wrong thing once, hurt your feelings, and this is your reaction. Your ex cheated on you for how long exactly, Alyssa?” I fought the urge to smack him across the face at his rhetorical question.“And you were fine with it, let him get away with hurting you again and again, but I make one slip-up and you react like I’m a complete asshole.” He leaned down, his eyes narrowed at me, his expression disgusted.
“I told you that you weren’t ready. And you promised me that you were. Tonight just proved what a liar you are,” I volleyed back at him.
His laugher was dark, humorless. “I’m the liar, that’s hilarious. You keep so much from me, I’m not even sure what the truth is about you. I’ve been patient with you, gave you space when you asked for it. Chased you when you kept running away.” He ticked off each complaint against me with his fingers.“Well, I’m done chasing you. I’m done trying to prove to you that I do want you.” He shook his head with repulsion. “You don’t even realize how messed up you are over Jake. He still has your self-esteem in the toilet and he’s not even here. He spent all those years making you feel worthless, so you wouldn’t leave him. He had to beat you down to make you think he was the best out there. You don’t even know what a healthy relationship looks like.”
I matched his grave laugh. “And you do?”
His face turned to stone. “I never lied to you, Alyssa. I never said she wouldn’t be part of my life if we’re together.”
“Part of your life? Listen to yourself. She’s gone, Derek.”
“You have no idea—”
I didn’t let him complete the thought. “You don’t get to do that. You don’t get to act like you’re the only one who has gone through loss. I had no idea you were even still close with her parents. And Emily’s mother sure made it clear in the bathroom she had no clue who I was. She also drove home the point that it’s always Emily for you.”
He let out a frustrated breath. “I was awkward, for fuck’s sake. I didn’t want to flaunt you in their faces. It’s not onlybecause she’s dead. She was murdered. Do you know how haunted we are about what she must’ve gone through in those last moments? And her killer is still out there, living his or her life. The Hills have been through enough.”
“You can’t get over it, I get it. I read your messages, Derek. I have every word memorized.” The fight was draining out of me, his words leaving me cold, haunted.
“Don’t do this, Alyssa. We could be good together—”
I cut him off. “You just said my self-esteem is in the toilet.How could we possibly be good together?”
“Because I’m hoping you wake the fuck up. You need to wake up and realize you’re beautiful and smart, that men want you. I want you.” His voice was a sexy growl, still simmering with anger.
Check out another excerpt from the book here and on my IG here.
Review
What do you do when you receive persistent the most swoon-worthy, gut-wrenching yet private text messages randomly? Do you answer back to correct the sender or leave it be? What do you do when you feel the same way as the sender in your life, and somehow, he/she knows what you are going through as you leave your past and start a new life with no one to turn to?
Alyssa Carmichael has HAD it. She is over being perfect for others, kept her silence and compliancy for too long, and now needs a change, and it was a huge one!
“Whether someone is alive or dead, no one should have that much control over your life.”
— The Despair of Strangers, Heater Topham Wood
When Alyssa took charge of her independence, she left everything and decided to start from anonymity – her name and even her mobile number so that no one can reach her. So, she was surprised when she started receiving mysterious, emotionally charged text messages from someone who seems to understand where she is coming from! These messages were full of pain, regret, and frustrations on life and love. It made her think about this anonymous texter all day long. Questions like: who, what, where, and why someone would be okay with sending these messages without having someone reply or answer.
The Despair of Strangers is told mainly from the POV of Alyssa’s, except for Derek’s text messages to Alyssa. The writing is emotionally charged and full of grief for what both Alyssa had to go through. Note that there is a lot of mystery surrounding Derek’s POV side unless disclosed through the text messages. There is an underlying mystery aside from the romance part of the story. The ending will shed light on how we can sometimes be cruel to ourselves when guilt comes into play.
Our history is borne from shared pain, shared sadness.
— The Despair of Strangers, Heater Topham Wood
Generally, I am not a fan of first-person POVs since there can be too many crazy thoughts running through my head with the other characters. But in this book, I appreciate the author giving readers only of Alyssa’s mind. I connected with her at a balanced level – left and right brain, rational and emotional sides.
Her past: the things Alyssa had to go through are so “mind-numbing,” most especially what she had to go through from her family. Yes, her own family is pathetic –> is a mild description! Readers…my stomach with the intrigue, the family drama/trauma family that surely affected how she saw herself and how others treat her. It also is the cause of her dysfunctional relationship with her ex-fiancé, Jake.
Her present: There was so much emotion whenever she reads through these messages versus her life in the past. It will be impossible for readers not to get worked up with the whole situation. I am sure readers will understand Alyssa a lot better with each chapter, even if we do not always agree with her decisions/actions. I love how this time around, Alyssa is more upfront and vocal about her emotions and experiences. Her character developed very well and did not give in to jumping straight into a relationship. She knew she had her issues to sort out, and the same goes for Derek. She inspired Derek to be the best version of himself for everyone.
Their discovery of each other’s identity then later meeting in person may not be the conventional pen-pal relationships. It is brought about by an unexpected second chance but later a painful decision (more on Alyssa’s side). However, I can see her point of distancing herself from everything when Derek’s still “hung up” over his ex-fiancée. She needed to look out for herself. There is talk about mental health and self-love, plus coping and healing methods, which I love and appreciate. It was not mentioned directly until the very end, but it is a beautiful segway in making Alyssa and Derek’s second chance to love work.
The way we met, the way we connected was heavy. We met at low points in our lives, definitely not looking for new relationships. Yet, I didn’t feel weighted down by my sorrow any longer. I felt lighter than I had ever.
— The Despair of Strangers, Heater Topham Wood
Overall, The Dispair of Strangers is a highly recommended read for readers who love their angst and second chance genres. It is an emotionally charged, angst read that will get readers to question one’s life’s contentment and purpose – to live for others or one’s self.
(1) It will make readers realize how much connection we sometimes make with a person that when they do “move on,” they take a part of ourselves that is irreplaceable but will heal through time and second chances if we are willing to accept these opportunities.
(2) Derek and Alyssa are a match made in despair and tragedy. There were so many emotional scars and secrets brewing between them that you will get all the “feels” and more. Expect to be spewing out tears left and right as early as the early chapters as readers understand and learn the backgrounds of Jake and Alyssa.
We never held faith in happy endings, only tragic ones, but maybe two broken things could become whole together.
— The Despair of Strangers, Heather Topham Wood
About the Author
Heather Topham Wood’s obsession with novels began in childhood while growing up in a shore town in New Jersey. Writing since her teens, she recently returned to penning novels after a successful career as a freelance writer. She’s the author of the paranormal romance Second Sight series and the standalone The Disappearing Girl.
Heather graduated from the College of New Jersey in 2005 and holds a bachelor’s degree in English. Her freelance work has appeared in publications such as USA Today, Livestrong.com, Outlook by the Bay and Step in Style magazine. She resides in Trenton, New Jersey with her husband and two sons. Besides writing, Heather is a pop culture fanatic and has an obsession with supernatural novels and TV shows.
In celebration of the release of The Despair of Strangers by Heather Topham Wood, a giveaway is being run! Up for grabs is a $50 Amazon gift card & a signed paperback of the Despair of Strangers! This Blitz-wide giveaway is open INTERNATIONALLY. The giveaway ends May 13th. Join now ➟➟➟ Head-on to Rafflecopter here.
Today we have the release day blitz for FINDING OUR SOMEDAY by M.M. Koenig. This is the last title in her NA romantic suspense series– grab yours and catch up on the series today!
Title: Waiting for Someday Author: M.M. Koenig Genre: Contemporary Romance
Synopsis:
The past should be behind her, but for Bri McAndrews, it keeps sneaking up in the worst ways. Lies, vicious plots, and manipulation follow Bri everywhere she turns. All she wants is to pick up the pieces and move on with her life, but the mistakes she’s made continue to haunt her, hurt her, pull her under. And with the sting of Trey’s latest betrayal still very fresh, Bri doesn’t know if she can truly trust him with her heart, leaving her at a crossroads she’s not ready to face.
The future should be bright, but for Trey Donovan, that’s the furthest thing from the truth. Trey has more regrets than he can count on one hand. To find atonement, he’s had to own up to the things he’s done, creating a rift with Bri he can’t seem to mend. Trey only wants the life with Bri he sees in his mind, but it keeps evading him, remaining just out of reach—especially when they find themselves standing between two of the most important people in their lives.
You need darkness in order to see the stars shine, but when a storm blows in, leaving a thunder cloud that blocks any semblance of hope, will two hearts become one, or have they become too tarnished to find their someday?
Trey opened his mouth, no doubt to really interrogate me, but I shot him a look that made it very clear I didn’t want to talk about it. I knew it wouldn’t work much longer, but I intended to stick with it until he forced me to open up about the flashbacks and nightmares. Pursing his lips together, his forehead creased to reflect his frustration.
“The lakeshore should fulfill that aspect. As far as the actual house itself, I’ll know when I see it,” I clarified, reading over a few more listings.
He took the next exit. “I’m sure you will. Have you thought about what you’d like to do for Valentine’s Day?”
I squinted at a few houses on my right. “I don’t think we’ll be able to do anything together. There’s a masquerade ball downtown my dad wants me to attend.”
Trey turned on Lincoln Street and gripped the wheel until his knuckles were white. “Sounds like a Gossip Girl kind of evening. If I get to have the kind of fun in bed with you afterwards those characters always seem to have, I’d love to escort you.”
My mouth curled into a smug grin. “I knew you watched that show.”
Feigning outrage, Trey muttered, “You used to make me watch it with you all the time. I had to know how it ended. I’m still not thrilled with who they picked for gossip girl.”
“You and me both. Are you sure you really want to go?”
His face was unreadable as he mumbled, “Yeah, why do you ask?”
I pointed at the steering wheel. “Because you’re going to pull that thing right off if you keep gripping it like that. Trey, you don’t have to go, but I can’t skip it. I don’t mind going alone.”
All the muscles in his neck twitched. “If that’s where you’ll be, then that’s where I want to be. You handled your dad, so he won’t be an issue. Unless you’re doubting that now.”
“That’s not it at all. If you really want to come, I’ll rent a tux for you. All I was saying is you don’t have to attend. I know it’s not your scene.”
“No, it’s not, but it’s part of your world, and I need to try harder at fitting into it. I can’t keep expecting to find my place there if I don’t put in the effort,” Trey explained, his face as sincere as his tone.
My heart surged, and I leaned over to press a soft kiss to his cheek before trailing my lips across his neck and over to his ear. “It’s not as hard as you think. You’ll do just fine. I’ll definitely reward your efforts at the end of the night.”
His eyes darkened, a sultry look filling them. “I’ll bring my A-game. I’m not about to miss out on any prize you’re willing to give me.”
I nipped at his earlobe, and his neck flushed a deep shade of red, proving I’d gotten to him. It was nice to rile him up for once. I couldn’t help but flash a salacious grin. Grasping my wrist, he tugged me back over to him for a deep kiss.
“Careful, darling. I know what you’re trying to do,” Trey growled.
I giggled. “I wish I could tell you I’m sorry, but I’m not.”
M. M. Koenig enjoys being active and has a variety of interests that coincide with her passion for life. Always one to try new things, she has acquired a variety of skills. Her sarcastic nature and multitude of experiences tend to find their way into her novels.
When she has free time and isn’t writing, she spends as much time as she can with friends and family. To fuel her soul, she is constantly looking for new music, movies, and books to keep the writer’s block at bay.
The text message wasn’t meant for Alyssa. After ending her engagement to a liar and cheater, she left everything behind, moving into a new apartment and changing her number. She didn’t expect to feel the words reach inside her, picking at scars never likely to heal.
I miss everything about you and I won’t move on. I can’t move on…
The messages kept coming, telling a story of loss that made Alyssa’s pain feel small. When she answered the texts, she formed a bond with Derek. Derek who was not writing to Alyssa at all, but trying to deal with his grief by sending messages to his dead fiancée.
All day today I was surrounded by people and I felt absolutely empty. Like when you went away, you took all of me with you….
Derek and Alyssa became friends first, then something more developed—a connection that felt like love, but one that left them both scared, uncertain of second chances. Alyssa wanted a future with Derek, but she wondered when Emily’s ghost would finally let him go.
Excerpt
Plastering on a wide smile, I approached Mr. Fredericks. He was in his late sixties and widowed for more than a decade. Despite my attempts at friendliness, he was always short with me. Whenever he came in, he requested Jenny as his waitress and voiced his displeasure when she was unavailable. “How are you today, Mr. Fredericks?”
“Ever hear of gout, new girl?” he groused, his brows knitting severely as he stared at me.“I could barely sleep last night because of it. I hope that coffee is extra strong.”
I opened my mouth to reply, but then stopped. My body stilled and I could feel the hairs on my neck come alive.
“I mean by the tenth book it becomes a challenge to keep things fresh and interesting. But my goal with the latest release was to bring the reader back to what they loved so much about the first novel…”
His voice. D’s voice was in my ear. I could recognize the sound in an instant. I had vivid dreams about that voice. I had detailed sexual fantasies about that voice. But the voice wasn’t on the other line of my phone. The sound was right inside the diner.
I twirled around, ignoring Mr. Fredericks as he asked me what was wrong. The room felt like it was spinning. Nothing made sense. Two worlds were colliding and I wasn’t ready for it to happen.
I scanned every table, every seat at the counter. Why was he here and what the hell was he talking about?What book? I couldn’t find the source of the voice, making me think I imagined the entire episode. I reasoned my grip on reality must’ve finally slipped and I was suffering a vivid delusion.
“I’m grateful for the success of the series. I’ve written since I was a boy because it always felt like the truest expression of myself…”
Definitively, I realized D’s voice was not inside the diner, but coming from the television that sat perched in the corner behind me.
Staring up at the screen, I wasn’t sure if I was having some sort of hallucination. Maybe the mental stress of the called off wedding finally caused the breakdown I predicted would happen to me. The moment couldn’t be real. I couldn’t actually hear D’s voice coming from a man in a suit, sitting in a chair being interviewed by a pretty journalist on a talk show.
The journalist smiled without showing her teeth. “With the announcement of the series coming to an end, what can we expect next from you?”
As he answered, the camera zoomed in for a close-up. Oh no, I panicked.That couldn’t be him. No way, I was not looking at my mystery caller. Because the man speaking with D’s voice was beautiful in a way that felt unfair to the rest of us regular folk. Dark hair with sexy waves, mussed perfectly. His eyes were brown and soulful with arched eyebrows that refused to disguise any of his emotions as he spoke. I moved my eyes down to examine his lips—lips that looked soft and sensual, sexy as fuck kissing lips. He didn’t look tan, but rather having a natural olive complexion. And good Lord, seemingly permanent five o’clock shadow on his chin—my one true weakness when it came to men.
“What is this?” I whispered. Mr. Fredericks had been speaking to me the entire time, but I had been in a complete trance. I cleared my throat. “What are you watching?”
“Girl, you having a seizure or something?” Mr. Fredericks shouted in my direction while snapping his fingers.
I shook my head quickly. “No…I just need to know what you’re watching.”
“It’s an interview with that author who lives in Jersey,” he sneered, looking disgruntled that I was forcing him to answer my question.“His wife got murdered a couple years back.”
And then the room was certainly spinning on its axis. I slammed the coffee pot on the table, then fell into the seat across from Mr. Fredericks. I felt close to fainting, cradling my face in my hands. “Who?” I hissed.
He had to be wrong. Of course, Mr. Fredericks was wrong. Emily wasn’t murdered. And D said she was his fiancée not his wife.
Mr. Fredericks ignored me. “Jenny! Can you get your girl to a doctor? She’s having some kind of episode at my table.”
Jenny was tying on her apron as she rushed to the table. Her eyes grew wide with concern. “Alyssa, what’s wrong?”
I shushed them instead of answering, trying to hear the interview.
I had missed the answer to the previous question. The camera panned once again to the reporter, who smiled at D while leaning forward conspiratorially. “Was there another reason you came to speak with us today?”
His face was grim. “I believe it’s important to bring attention back to Emily’s case.”
Oh, double fuck, I wanted to cry. It really was him. D was on television and he was talking about his murdered wife’s case. A sobering thought brought on a wave of nausea. Leaning forward, I circled my fingers around the edge of the table until they were bloodless. “He’s not a suspect, right? Did he kill her?” I asked Mr. Fredericks through gritted teeth.
Mr. Fredericks bent away from me as if I was contagious. Meanwhile, Jenny was staringas if I had lost my mind. She wasn’t far off. “Who, Derek Walsh? Isn’t the killer always the husband?”
Fuck it all to hell. I’d been talking to a killer. I had phone sex with a killer. What was wrong with me? How could I have such godawful taste in men? And the entire time, I thought he was a thousand times the man Jake ever could be.
About the Author
Heather Topham Wood’s obsession with novels began in childhood while growing up in a shore town in New Jersey. Writing since her teens, she recently returned to penning novels after a successful career as a freelance writer. She’s the author of the paranormal romance Second Sight series and the standalone The Disappearing Girl.
Heather graduated from the College of New Jersey in 2005 and holds a bachelor’s degree in English. Her freelance work has appeared in publications such as USA Today, Livestrong.com, Outlook by the Bay and Step in Style magazine. She resides in Trenton, New Jersey with her husband and two sons. Besides writing, Heather is a pop culture fanatic and has an obsession with supernatural novels and TV shows.
In celebration of the release of The Despair of Strangers by Heather Topham Wood, a giveaway is being run! Up for grabs is a $50 Amazon gift card & a signed paperback of the Despair of Strangers! This Blitz-wide giveaway is open internationally. The giveaway ends May 13th.
Disclosure: I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book which I received from the author. All views expressed are only my honest opinion.
Published on: 30 December 2021 Type: HEA, series Genre: Small-town Rural Fiction, Clean Wholesome Romance, Friendship Fiction Author: Stacey Komosinski Read: 19 April 2021 Shelved: 23 April 2021 Rating: 3.5/ 5 stars ⭐⭐⭐ ½
Welcome to the Finding Happiness in Harmony series’ first journey celebrating the bonds of friendship, love, and life. This feel-good story of first love and best friends will have you believing you too can find it all.
Twenty-five-year-old Chloe Larson has never had a relationship or been really kissed by someone. After a rough childhood spent hiding a secret and being ridiculed, Chloe believes she’s better off with only friends around her. That way she can’t get hurt or misused. She spends weekends living life to the fullest with her best friends and roommates Gaby and Jess and weekdays proving her worth as a newly promoted reporter. The thing is, she doesn’t have time for anything romantic. But secretly she longs for that special connection with someone.
Chris Sherman is bored of the selfish women who flock to him. Recently out of a relationship, he isn’t looking for love. But everything changes when he meets Chloe Larson. She has a way about her that excites and intrigues him, leaving him desperate to get to know her.
Will they both find the courage to let each other in and experience the joys and pains of love, life, and happiness to find it all?
Review
Finding It All talks about Chloe Larson is a news reporter/writer at Local 9 News station. She loves to bake and write. She shares space with two college friends at Galorston, Texas – Gabriella “Gabby Rodriguez and Jessica “Jess” Taylor. These ladies’ adventures are a lot for one book from family, friendships, disappointments, accomplishments, and love. One of the highlights is meeting Chris Sherman, a principal of Galorston City High School.
The story is mainly from Chloe and Chris’ POV with some multi-POV on the supporting characters. However, it was pleasant to learn about and understand most of the book’s characters. The author seems to have wanted readers to see all the other characters’ situations and bridges to the following books in the series. Although, for my part, I felt that it initially lessened me from connecting with Chloe and Chris’ story until the latter part when it converged in its way. The writing style is clear and straightforward, which I know some readers will love. Descriptions were a lot better for scenes and internal rationalizations.
I liked Chloe, but there were so many hesitations from her side that it got me confused. As readers read on, we discover Chloe’s dark and sad past that would make anyone reconsider even starting anything with anyone.
While initially, readers will fall hard like Chloe to Chris, he comes with his own “issues” that surprised me. On the surface, he is the perfect man – older, wiser, and knows what he is looking for after meeting Chloe, but his “insecurities” bring about tension and frustrations in the story.
The story may sound predictable, but it is anything BUT. Besides Chloe’s and Chris’ stories, there were other “complex mini-stories” between all the characters that make the whole book more “rounded.” All the character viewpoints are written clearly, though a few sections dragged on a bit longer than needed. The plot is simple enough on the surface, but some heavy topics are mentioned, like mental health and abuse – not only from Chloe but other ladies. It is nice to see these ladies supporting each other, given their random background, personality, and ideologies. I love how the author empowers the girls after their traumatic event.
I enjoyed the country fairs scenes that Chloe and Chris went through. The author described the events clearly with many things going around and between the couple that It was a special section for me – especially when a “blast from the past” decides to show up a few years too late.
In summary, Finding It All is a sweet country love story. It has a balance of memorable moments of family, friends, and love. The characters did some growing up and self-reflection that ran a bit too sweet to me. It is a debut book with its hurdles of keeping readers interested and going, but maybe it is not for me. I believe many readers will like it and hope you guys gave it a try as I did. The ending turned out a lot better than I hoped, and yes, it is a HEA. Good start for an upcoming new author.
Love was a complex emotion. It brought about all the good and wonderful feelings a human could possibly feel, but it also surfaced a deep fear of losing the precious and delicate love you found.
— Finding It All, Stacey Komosinski
About the Author
Stacey grew up in a small Pennsylvania town strongly influenced by her mother’s passion for reading. She read her first romance novel in her early twenties and hasn’t stopped. Stacey holds a master’s degree in molecular biology and is employed as a supply chain product leader in the pharmaceutical industry. She makes the Lehigh Valley in Pennsylvania her home with her husband, Teddy, and two daughters, Madeline and Anna.
Disclosure: I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book which I received from the author. All views expressed are only my honest opinion.
Published on: 11 November 2020 Type: prequel, series Genre: Sports Romance, Drama Author: Lizzie Morton Read: 24 April 2021 Shelved: 24 April 2021 Rating: 3.5/ 5 stars ⭐️⭐️⭐️½ Get it Amazon US | Amazon UK | Barnes & Noble | Add Fool Me Once to your TBR: Goodreads
Synopsis
**Sizzling Prequel Novella to Fool Me Twice**
I had it all: the girl, the home, the NFL career. The Life. I was living the dream. Then I stepped off that goddamn plane. There are a lot of reasons I hate New York. Abby West ending our four-year relationship there has added another. My life is unravelling one mistake at a time for all the world to see and I’m about to hit rock bottom. I’m learning the hard way that they’re called secrets for a reason and they should never be told.
Start the Fool Me Series Book 1 – Fool Me Once (prequel) Book 2 – Fool Me Twice – coming soon
Start the Always Series: rock-star second chance romance Book 1 – Always You Book 2 – Always Us Book 3 – Always – coming soon
Review
After reading Book 1 of the Always series, my interest in Michael Becket piqued to see what happens to him after Abby, his now ex-girlfriend. Fool Me Once is a prequel to a new series spin-off. How many books in the series? I have no idea yet but believe me, given this is coming from an author that is recently wrapping up a trilogy in her belt, it might be another trilogy when you start this book – if you are readers who love series.
What readers will read is a different version of Michael from what Abby knows him to be. After the demise of his four-year relationship with Abby West, Michael spiraled into a huge mess, starting with sitting beside a blond woman in economy class on his way back from New York to Florida.
This story is from Michael’s POV and runs into the worst-case scenarios for celebrities – SCANDALS GALORE!
Michael’s past and walls set the stage in the first place to avoid such crazy events. But coming from a hard place, he chose the very wrong time to “let loose” and has been suffering the consequences even weeks after one scandal comes. It was like the hydra – cut off one head, two more spouts, and as his publicist tries her hardest to “protect” him, every secret that Michael held dear has been exploited for the world to see.
The race is on to find the mystery woman, on what happened on his way back home, which he did not make it to his Florida apartment when he woke up somewhere else the day after his flight. If you think the Hangover (the movie) was a lot, this prequel would be jaw-droppingly shocking.
In summary, I would recommend Fool Me Once for readers of sports romance but will want to also continue with the series. This book was a tough read for me. With an initial impression of a kind and gentle man from one book, Michael’s 180 degrees change was too much in this book. It was a lot of overcompensation on Michael’s side, even for an unfortunate incident that he would take it out to the rest of the world. That was just too much for me. There was much “drama” that also brought about his “carelessness” that I believe brought about what happened if truth be told.
About the Author
Author Lizzie Morton is an author of Contemporary Romance and New Adult novels. She lives in the U.K with her partner and three children. Previously she has worked as a Personal Trainer and Back Pain Specialist and trained as a Chef at Leeds City College. Her first novel was originally just a note on her phone but became a full manuscript – released in August 2020. When she isn’t reading or writing, her favourite things include running, sniffling, and changing nappies.
Disclosure: All views expressed are only my honest opinion.
Published on: 22 February 2021 Type: continuation series, trilogy Genre: Music/Band, Contemporary Romance, Drama Author: Lizzie Morton Read: 23 April 2021 Shelved: 24 April 2021 Rating: 4/ 5 stars ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ Get it at Amazon US | UK Add Always Us to your TBR: Goodreads
Synopsis
How long does it take to mend a broken heart? If anyone has the answer, let me know.
It’s been two years since I chose to turn my back on the one that got away. I thought I was doing the best for both of us and it was supposed to help us move forward. Instead, I’m more confused than I’ve ever been before, fighting to forget what it felt like being in his arms.
Now, it’s another summer and another life-changing opportunity. But this time I’m running around Europe, surrounded by Rock Gods. It’s the life most would dream of, but things are never that straightforward.
When I thought it couldn’t get any worse, I’m faced with one of the biggest decisions I’ll ever have to make. Do I follow my head, or my heart?
They say the heart wants what it wants, but my heart wants two people at the same time.
**Always Us is Book 2 in the Always Series. The book is part of a trilogy and is not a standalone.**
Start the Always Series: Book 1 – Always You Book 2 – Always Us Book 3 – Always : coming soon
Review
Always Us fast-forwards readers to two years after Abby West decides to move to South Africa for a job. She is a successful freelance photographer covering travel and exciting music tours. As it goes, Jake Ross, musician of the band SCARAB and her ex-boyfriend, decides that it’s time to “finally fight” for Abby and found a way for her to cover his European tour. Upon finding Jake’s intentions of having her come back to his life, Abby goes on the fence and keeps her distance while Jake does the total opposite. In helping Abby in getting her mind off her ex-boyfriend, another guy comes into the scene. Dan White, bandleader of another music band – Six Seconds to Barcelona (and part of the tour), has his eyes set on Abby’s attention. What happens next is a summer of whirlwind bus rides, hotel rooms, and “bad decisions” that will bring in the excitement, heartaches, and drama of being in a close-knit group.
It doesn’t matter how much time goes by, how much of a fight she puts up or how many times she says it’s done. I’ll always be there watching over here, making sure she’s okay and fighting her corner. I walked away once, and it was the worst thing I ever did. I promised myself that I would never, do it again.
— Always Us, Lizzie Morton
Told from both Jake and Abby’s POV with a few flashbacks from Book 1, the story is written well and pulls readers in like behind-the-scenes of touring around Europe to the drama of Jake and Abby’s friends and entourage. Readers can expect sparks, words, and actions to start flying as the complications surrounding Jake and Abby together for a whole summer. With dating two men and ex’s fighting back, there is no shortage of jealousy and manipulations.
I am saying this with love and affection, but Jake is PATHETIC! After what he and Abby went through in the last book, you would think that he would get his head straight and start “changing for the better” for him and Abby. Nope – instead, after the end of the last book, Jake “goes off the rails,” slacks off “to get over Abby,” then demands her to part of his music tour as a way to get her back. Granted that he is trying to “fight for them,” he makes the wrong decisions every time based on his anger, frustrations, and irrational thoughts about how Abby had both their interest at the forefront compared to him.
Abby is another frustrating character. I don’t know who has the luck she has of having men (famous and rich) fall all over her and seeking “real relationships.” She is truly a unique one! I understand her confusion but also had to keep in mind that she is not perfect. She has flaws and made poor decisions like any other human being. She is focused on moving on but couldn’t fathom why she is failing. Well, maybe because her head and heart have not decided on anything yet, or has she? I wished she would own up to what she really wants in the end, but she is afraid of admitting it. She keeps running away from having to decide anything. She later gets a “moment of clarity” from the most unlikely people who made my jaw drop…the words and discussion between that character were brutal but honest.
There is a fantastic and memorable scene nearing the end where Abby does seek her help and “clarity.” This scene comes as somewhat surprising since it hits closer to home. The office space described may leave readers surprised, not shocked if they have read Book 1. I was happy to see this throughout that chapter because of the clarity given to Abby in the end…though the ending is still killing me.
In summary, Always Us is an excellent read for second chance tropes, rock music genre readers like myself. Compared to Book 1, Always Us left me baffled and hanging. This book is a cliffhanger because of the impending things coming. With many things happening – two men are fighting for Abby, more secrets coming out, shifting alliances and unexpected relationships forming, etc. It was a good enough read and worth all the angst, drama, frustration, tears, and other emotions that the author brought out in me. I want to note that the “truth’s backstory” was awful and cruel, but explained why Abby’s and Jake’s predicament. In the end, it isn’t “the truth” that will get readers worked up but something else that happens, which will affect Jake and her futures. Book 3 cannot come fast enough after this ending!
“Whatever this is between you and Abby, it’s as real as it gets, and its messy, because love is. Fight with everything you have left, and when you’re done…fight some more.”
— Always Us, Lizzie Morton
About the Author
Author Lizzie Morton is an author of Contemporary Romance and New Adult novels. She lives in the U.K with her partner and three children. Previously she has worked as a Personal Trainer and Back Pain Specialist and trained as a Chef at Leeds City College. Her first novel was originally just a note on her phone but became a full manuscript – released in August 2020. When she isn’t reading or writing, her favourite things include running, sniffling, and changing nappies.
Currant7 Recommends 