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Was I Ever #3
Was I Ever Free
The past holds no power when the future is you
It took twenty-four years, but Lucy Lincoln finally escaped the twisted religious cult she was born into— Sacro Nuntio. A year later, Lucy still feels shackled to her past–and smothered by her protective sister, Lenix. In an attempt to finally taste real freedom, she decides to take a road trip across the United States. Hoping that by embracing new experiences they can lead her to discover who she truly is without the weight of others expectations.
Lenix places the condition that the broody resident hacker of the Sin Eaters, Bastian Maxwell, must go along with her—despite both of their protests.
Bastian's cynical outlook and imposing silence clashes with her innocent optimism and endearing, yet sheltered, view of the world, threatening to ruin Lucy’s first chance at true adventure.
However, what begins as a begrudging journey down Highway 66 between practical strangers, turns into a salacious deal when Lucy blind-sides Bastian with a proposition he can’t refuse.
Insisting on no-strings attached, Bastian agrees to teach Lucy just how good freedom can really feel, however it doesn’t take long for the shadows of his past to manifest and prove that his freedom is merely a delusion.
*Was I Ever Free is the heart-wrenching third, and final, installment in the “Was I Ever” series. A grumpy/sunshine dark romance with a guaranteed HEA. While it can be read as a standalone, characters and events will be better appreciated if the series is read in order. It has mature situations and themes which may be considered triggers for some. Reader discretion is advised.*
It took twenty-four years, but Lucy Lincoln finally escaped the twisted religious cult she was born into— Sacro Nuntio. A year later, Lucy still feels shackled to her past–and smothered by her protective sister, Lenix. In an attempt to finally taste real freedom, she decides to take a road trip across the United States. Hoping that by embracing new experiences they can lead her to discover who she truly is without the weight of others expectations.
Lenix places the condition that the broody resident hacker of the Sin Eaters, Bastian Maxwell, must go along with her—despite both of their protests.
Bastian's cynical outlook and imposing silence clashes with her innocent optimism and endearing, yet sheltered, view of the world, threatening to ruin Lucy’s first chance at true adventure.
However, what begins as a begrudging journey down Highway 66 between practical strangers, turns into a salacious deal when Lucy blind-sides Bastian with a proposition he can’t refuse.
Insisting on no-strings attached, Bastian agrees to teach Lucy just how good freedom can really feel, however it doesn’t take long for the shadows of his past to manifest and prove that his freedom is merely a delusion.
*Was I Ever Free is the heart-wrenching third, and final, installment in the “Was I Ever” series. A grumpy/sunshine dark romance with a guaranteed HEA. While it can be read as a standalone, characters and events will be better appreciated if the series is read in order. It has mature situations and themes which may be considered triggers for some. Reader discretion is advised.*
340 pages, Kindle Edition
Published August 2, 2023
49 people are currently reading
2968 people want to read
About the author
Naomi Loud
9 books555 followersWriter, occasional poet, and full-time witch, Naomi Loud is known for her angsty and heartfelt stories. Whether it be dark romance or contemporary, she loves to explore the complexities of the human condition and find the common thread that connects us all. Naomi lives in Montreal, Canada, with her husband and three cats, but secretly wishes she could live underwater.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 238 reviews
August 2, 2023
When I first picked up this book, I wasn’t sure if I was in the mood but the second Connor and Lenix appeared, all that excitement from the first two books came back and I couldn’t help but start grinning like a dork. I usually find it hard to review books I loved but this book managed to get all sorts of different emotions out from me and there’s so much to rave about.
There’s just something about Loud’s characters that make them feel different from any other character I’ve read. They pull you in right from the beginning and there’s never a dull moment. I loved Bastian and Lucy. Lucy wanted to experience the world and find herself after finally being free from the cult she was raised in so she decided to go on a road trip. Bastian of course, was forced to go on this road trip with her since she’s still not quite used to the real world. He acted like he’d rather be anywhere else but time and time again he found himself enjoying being around Lucy. Then Lucy decided she wanted his help with some OTHER experiences and then it got really, REALLY good.
It wasn’t all just spicy scenes either. There were also some really sweet moments and moments of not only Lucy growing as a person but Bastian too. One particular moment near the end was so sweet, I nearly started sobbing I was so emotional. I really enjoyed how they grew together and individually. They both dealt with their past in different ways but still came together. Also can we talk about how “Baby Blue” is the cutest nickname ever?
The one conflict was devastating to read about. I was clutching my wine like it was going to save me from what was happening. It didn’t shy away from the brutality or how someone would cope with it afterwards. It was fast paced but slowed down when the plot needed it.
Another thing I love that every book in this series executes perfectly is the ending. Whether or not there’s a big conflict in the end, she takes the time to fully wrap it up. It’s never rushed and you get to breathe in the aftermath with the characters. I wish the book never ended but I feel completely satisfied with how it did. What a great final book to this series.
*ARC review*
There’s just something about Loud’s characters that make them feel different from any other character I’ve read. They pull you in right from the beginning and there’s never a dull moment. I loved Bastian and Lucy. Lucy wanted to experience the world and find herself after finally being free from the cult she was raised in so she decided to go on a road trip. Bastian of course, was forced to go on this road trip with her since she’s still not quite used to the real world. He acted like he’d rather be anywhere else but time and time again he found himself enjoying being around Lucy. Then Lucy decided she wanted his help with some OTHER experiences and then it got really, REALLY good.
It wasn’t all just spicy scenes either. There were also some really sweet moments and moments of not only Lucy growing as a person but Bastian too. One particular moment near the end was so sweet, I nearly started sobbing I was so emotional. I really enjoyed how they grew together and individually. They both dealt with their past in different ways but still came together. Also can we talk about how “Baby Blue” is the cutest nickname ever?
The one conflict was devastating to read about. I was clutching my wine like it was going to save me from what was happening. It didn’t shy away from the brutality or how someone would cope with it afterwards. It was fast paced but slowed down when the plot needed it.
Another thing I love that every book in this series executes perfectly is the ending. Whether or not there’s a big conflict in the end, she takes the time to fully wrap it up. It’s never rushed and you get to breathe in the aftermath with the characters. I wish the book never ended but I feel completely satisfied with how it did. What a great final book to this series.
*ARC review*
July 18, 2023
I read this book when anxiety was riding me hard, so I will try to do it justice with my review. Bastian, Connor’s silent cousin, has been tasked with accompanying Connor’s sister-in-law Lucy on a road trip. She has been out of the cult which held her captive for about a year, and she wants to experience America. She’s not thrilled that her sister Lenix basically forced a chaperone on her, but she’d be lying if she said she wasn’t excited to get to know the enigmatic Bastian.
For his part, Bastian is annoyed at having been there at all, but there is something alluring about Lucy. She’s innocent of the world, and is only now learning about the country, the true language, and the people. Together, they drive from California to Arizona, Colorado, etc and learn more about each other along the way. The closer they become, the more Bastian knows his ground rules for keeping Lucy at arms length are useless.
I love a road trip romance, love a reformed bad boy and an innocent good girl, loved these two together! Add in the intrigue of their pasts, the favor he owes his MC friend and the backlash that ensues, and you’ve got yourself an entertaining and stunning book! Bastian is the undercover sweetheart I knew he would be, and who can’t love Lucy? A great ending to an amazing trilogy.
For his part, Bastian is annoyed at having been there at all, but there is something alluring about Lucy. She’s innocent of the world, and is only now learning about the country, the true language, and the people. Together, they drive from California to Arizona, Colorado, etc and learn more about each other along the way. The closer they become, the more Bastian knows his ground rules for keeping Lucy at arms length are useless.
I love a road trip romance, love a reformed bad boy and an innocent good girl, loved these two together! Add in the intrigue of their pasts, the favor he owes his MC friend and the backlash that ensues, and you’ve got yourself an entertaining and stunning book! Bastian is the undercover sweetheart I knew he would be, and who can’t love Lucy? A great ending to an amazing trilogy.
August 3, 2023
She tasted like coming home. Like I had been away for far too long, hungering for something I thought forever lost.
5/5 ⭐ 3.75/5 🌶️
I know that a book is divine when it leaves me with a lingering melancholy, unable to part with the mcs!
Blonde mmcs with dark, nefarious energy are criminally underrated! Bastian was one of the best mmcs I've ever read! Saying that I loved him is too simple and plainly offensive because it's so much more than that! I can't get him out of my mind.
His energy, his attitude and his brilliant mind, I couldn't get enough. He was perfection on paper and I was so hyped for him. I couldn't patiently wait to read what he was going to do on the very next page. He is probably my favorite of the series. Everything about him… was a masterpiece.
I've been fawning over Bastian, which he undoubtedly deserves, but the story wouldn't be as enticing if it wasn't also for Lucy. She was amazing, the sunshine to his grumpy while owning a big part of the story. Her liberation from her past, her journey of self-discovery, were so touching and freeing to read. She, as an fmc, was so admirable to read.
The plot was enjoyable, there wasn't a part of the story that I felt even slightly bored. There's angst, trauma, forced proximity and suspense. Along with a really good plot. The chemistry between the mcs is sizzling. Also the spice in this book is good. Really good. There's an mmf scene that left me speechless. It wasn't the most spicy mmf scene that I've read but the energy behind it..oof! Bastian is a dark dream!
What I love so much about this series is that one of the main tropes is fated and probably soulmates. There are many hints about reincarnation and how the mcs found each other during different lives or timelines. It's different with each couple but in general the mentions are so subtle and beautiful. There's a lingering, untold mystery that left me warm all over. It's done so well. This series is exceptional! Loved every second of it.
Did I like it? Loved every single page.
Would I reread it? Nope.
5/5 ⭐ 3.75/5 🌶️
I know that a book is divine when it leaves me with a lingering melancholy, unable to part with the mcs!
Blonde mmcs with dark, nefarious energy are criminally underrated! Bastian was one of the best mmcs I've ever read! Saying that I loved him is too simple and plainly offensive because it's so much more than that! I can't get him out of my mind.
His energy, his attitude and his brilliant mind, I couldn't get enough. He was perfection on paper and I was so hyped for him. I couldn't patiently wait to read what he was going to do on the very next page. He is probably my favorite of the series. Everything about him… was a masterpiece.
I've been fawning over Bastian, which he undoubtedly deserves, but the story wouldn't be as enticing if it wasn't also for Lucy. She was amazing, the sunshine to his grumpy while owning a big part of the story. Her liberation from her past, her journey of self-discovery, were so touching and freeing to read. She, as an fmc, was so admirable to read.
The plot was enjoyable, there wasn't a part of the story that I felt even slightly bored. There's angst, trauma, forced proximity and suspense. Along with a really good plot. The chemistry between the mcs is sizzling. Also the spice in this book is good. Really good. There's an mmf scene that left me speechless. It wasn't the most spicy mmf scene that I've read but the energy behind it..oof! Bastian is a dark dream!
What I love so much about this series is that one of the main tropes is fated and probably soulmates. There are many hints about reincarnation and how the mcs found each other during different lives or timelines. It's different with each couple but in general the mentions are so subtle and beautiful. There's a lingering, untold mystery that left me warm all over. It's done so well. This series is exceptional! Loved every second of it.
Did I like it? Loved every single page.
Would I reread it? Nope.
December 7, 2023
Infinity stars. WOW. I cried several times, both happy and sad tears. It was a lot. BUT THEN I would be crossing my legs at the smutty scenes. All in all a delightful rollercoaster of a ride.
Lucy and Bastian’s story was everything I hoped it would be and more. I adored every single minute of it, and was sad to finish it. Bastian had me giggling and kicking my feet. He. Is. Everything.
The way Naomi handles religious trauma and healing from it is flawlessly done. As someone who also has religious trauma, I was impressed at how it was handled.
And the spice?? HELLO. WOW. SO HOT.
Spice:
Lucy and Bastian’s story was everything I hoped it would be and more. I adored every single minute of it, and was sad to finish it. Bastian had me giggling and kicking my feet. He. Is. Everything.
The way Naomi handles religious trauma and healing from it is flawlessly done. As someone who also has religious trauma, I was impressed at how it was handled.
And the spice?? HELLO. WOW. SO HOT.
Spice:
July 16, 2023
5⭐️/3🌶️
I received an ARC in return I give my honest ✨opinion✨
I mean by the looks of the rating, you would assume I loved this book. And your assumptions would be correct.
Received the ARC earlier than expected and you can bet your bottom dollar i read every freaking word in one sitting.
I’m sweating just typing this bcos I’m energized from finishing this and I’ve just realized it was this last one of the series and im now sad 😭😂😅.
Anywho. So good. So heartbreakingly good.
Bastian, the man we’ve all been waiting to read about. He’s intrigued me from the get go. And now we have his devastating story I love him even more. He wants nothing to do with this road trip until he realizes maybe it’s not so bad with Lucy.
Lucy, the woman who escaped a cult and wants to experience life. And what better time to experience life than on a cross-country road trip? With Bastian 👀😈. And she certainly experiences life.
Also his nickname for her??? Simply down bad. I am so unwell. Him helping her and give her new experiences ?? Stfu.
The whole story is an emotional rollercoaster and that last 25-30%? WRECKED. ME. I was so scared that’s how the book was gonna go and ofc I was right. And my emotions were all over the place.
I’ve also always been such a fan of the whole…dads I say existentialism(?) in this series…and this book certainly delivers. The author’s writing is of course as beautiful as always.
I leave y’all with this
“Mine to own. Mine to corrupt. Mine to breed.” Ugh Bastian has such a way with words.
TW: rape (off page, historical), incest (off page, historical), drug addiction/abuse, torture, religious trauma.
I received an ARC in return I give my honest ✨opinion✨
I mean by the looks of the rating, you would assume I loved this book. And your assumptions would be correct.
Received the ARC earlier than expected and you can bet your bottom dollar i read every freaking word in one sitting.
I’m sweating just typing this bcos I’m energized from finishing this and I’ve just realized it was this last one of the series and im now sad 😭😂😅.
Anywho. So good. So heartbreakingly good.
Bastian, the man we’ve all been waiting to read about. He’s intrigued me from the get go. And now we have his devastating story I love him even more. He wants nothing to do with this road trip until he realizes maybe it’s not so bad with Lucy.
Lucy, the woman who escaped a cult and wants to experience life. And what better time to experience life than on a cross-country road trip? With Bastian 👀😈. And she certainly experiences life.
Also his nickname for her??? Simply down bad. I am so unwell. Him helping her and give her new experiences ?? Stfu.
The whole story is an emotional rollercoaster and that last 25-30%? WRECKED. ME. I was so scared that’s how the book was gonna go and ofc I was right. And my emotions were all over the place.
I’ve also always been such a fan of the whole…dads I say existentialism(?) in this series…and this book certainly delivers. The author’s writing is of course as beautiful as always.
I leave y’all with this
“Mine to own. Mine to corrupt. Mine to breed.” Ugh Bastian has such a way with words.
TW: rape (off page, historical), incest (off page, historical), drug addiction/abuse, torture, religious trauma.
January 29, 2024
3.5⭐
The final third of the novel was perfect. What came before seemed a bit slapdash and too ambling, even for a road trip romance.
Because lot of pieces were missing for the majority of the novel–most notably stakes and purpose–it wasn't as effective as the other entries in this series.
Would still recommend Was I Ever Here (book one of interconnected stand-alones) with my whole heart, though! So don't let this turn you off from giving that a read.
The final third of the novel was perfect. What came before seemed a bit slapdash and too ambling, even for a road trip romance.
Because lot of pieces were missing for the majority of the novel–most notably stakes and purpose–it wasn't as effective as the other entries in this series.
Would still recommend Was I Ever Here (book one of interconnected stand-alones) with my whole heart, though! So don't let this turn you off from giving that a read.
March 22, 2024
This was ALOT more intense than the first two books but I am so here for it. I really enjoyed this journey & I feel so sad the series is over. This so far is my favorite series I’ve read in 2024. I just absolutely love Naomi’s writing & I thought it was perfection.
This is prob my least favorite in the series & I don’t mean anything by that but I feel like bc Lucy was in a cult some things felt unrealistic that she would be so willing to try right off the bat. Idk I just felt like dang girl ok that’s a little intermediate but either way still v good!
This is prob my least favorite in the series & I don’t mean anything by that but I feel like bc Lucy was in a cult some things felt unrealistic that she would be so willing to try right off the bat. Idk I just felt like dang girl ok that’s a little intermediate but either way still v good!
August 14, 2023
5 stars. if you have any questions square up bitch I ALREADY KNOW THIS ONE IS GOING TO BE HOT AF
14th of August.
WHEN WAS I EVER WRONG? WHEN DID NAOMI EVER DO US WRONG?
I think my brain needs a moment to settle down and to just breathe because ever since I have picked this Lucy and Bastian have been running in my mind for miles and miles. I am not going to waste my breath saying how much I loved you because we already all knew that. I just fucking die for how Naomi writes this as not just love stories, but love that almost feels like a spiritual experience, a life-changing moment, a gateway to another life entirely.
When I was reading this I was not prepared for all the depth I would get from every character. Reading this was like sinking in the ocean with an infinite oxygen tank and discovering a new world. the layers upon layers you discover about the experiences they share no matter how many times we encounter them in other books it is never like this.
The way I was legit sobbing like a baby about how Lucy came out of the other end, she didn't save just herself, she saved herself and Bastain by just being.
I could probably write a more coherent review a bit later on but my mind feels like it exploded to tiny particles of stardust and I am wonderstruck.
14th of August.
WHEN WAS I EVER WRONG? WHEN DID NAOMI EVER DO US WRONG?
I think my brain needs a moment to settle down and to just breathe because ever since I have picked this Lucy and Bastian have been running in my mind for miles and miles. I am not going to waste my breath saying how much I loved you because we already all knew that. I just fucking die for how Naomi writes this as not just love stories, but love that almost feels like a spiritual experience, a life-changing moment, a gateway to another life entirely.
When I was reading this I was not prepared for all the depth I would get from every character. Reading this was like sinking in the ocean with an infinite oxygen tank and discovering a new world. the layers upon layers you discover about the experiences they share no matter how many times we encounter them in other books it is never like this.
The way I was legit sobbing like a baby about how Lucy came out of the other end, she didn't save just herself, she saved herself and Bastain by just being.
I could probably write a more coherent review a bit later on but my mind feels like it exploded to tiny particles of stardust and I am wonderstruck.
July 31, 2023
This is the final in the trilogy of the Was I Ever series and Naomi Loud absolutely nailed it! If you haven’t read this series, you need to go download it now!!! All three are on Kindle unlimited so really you have no excuse. She writes in a way that you get absolutely absorbed into the words. Your heart will break, you will be destroyed, but we all know this is a romance, so the anticipation of getting to the end is just such a great build up. I constantly recommend these books. Was I ever Free is no exception. It takes us on a road trip across Route 66 with a grumpy/ sunshine duo. The plot is in depth and the character development is astonishing. To see where they begin, and end is such a fantastic journey. There is action, there is spice and other adventures along the way. Was I Ever Free was a beautiful end to the series. I can't wait to see what Naomi writes next!
July 22, 2023
“I’ll rebuild the entire world for you, Baby Blue. Just the way you want it.”
🌶️🌶️🌶️,5/5
CHECK TW
ARC REVIEW - release 8/2
Book 3
Interconnected standalone
Dark romance
MF romance
Grumpy / sunshine
Forced proximity
Road trip
Teacher / student
Pierced MMC
Praise / degradation
Public play
Exhibitionism / voyeurism
MFM / MMF action
Breeding kink
P🥚ing
Tiny bit of bondage
I will never again look at my Memento Mori tattoo and not think of Bastian and Lucy. I would die for them. If you listen to one thing I say, if I can recommend one author and tell you to read one series, it’s this one. Read Naomi Loud. Read these books. You will never be the same again. I think this book altered the fabric of my heart. One of my top reads this year, hands down, while Was I Ever Here was one of my top reads last year. So yeah, that says enough, right? Naomi if you read this, I love you!!!
Lucy was rescued from a cult one year ago, where she lived her entire life in indoctrination and abuse. She wants to experience life, find herself, by touring Route 66, but her protective sister doesn’t want her to go alone. So she sends Bastian with her, the crime syndicates hacker. The road-trip will turn out life changing for both of them when they agree on a student-teacher dynamic for pleasure purposes.
Lucy has such amazing character progress in this book. She’s trying to shed the indoctrination by forcing herself to do the things that were forbidden or sinful. She’s an amazing sunshine character and I want to protect her with my life. She can use me as a human shield. “Let us stomp the road” got me. Lucy finds her voice more and more until she simply takes what she wants, which is Bastian. Bastian is a grumpy, silent and stoic character after my heart. But he’s secretly a freak. I need him biblically. I need him in a way that’s concerning to feminism. He’s got his own mental demons, which are very prominent in this book and it’s a long way before he overcomes them and it’s not made easy because of things that happen to Bastian. My heart was in pieces for him. Special shout out to the spice in this book because that was unreal. One of the hottest books I’ve read in a while. That piercing Bastian has??? It made me fucking feral.
🌶️🌶️🌶️,5/5
CHECK TW
ARC REVIEW - release 8/2
Book 3
Interconnected standalone
Dark romance
MF romance
Grumpy / sunshine
Forced proximity
Road trip
Teacher / student
Pierced MMC
Praise / degradation
Public play
Exhibitionism / voyeurism
MFM / MMF action
Breeding kink
P🥚ing
Tiny bit of bondage
I will never again look at my Memento Mori tattoo and not think of Bastian and Lucy. I would die for them. If you listen to one thing I say, if I can recommend one author and tell you to read one series, it’s this one. Read Naomi Loud. Read these books. You will never be the same again. I think this book altered the fabric of my heart. One of my top reads this year, hands down, while Was I Ever Here was one of my top reads last year. So yeah, that says enough, right? Naomi if you read this, I love you!!!
Lucy was rescued from a cult one year ago, where she lived her entire life in indoctrination and abuse. She wants to experience life, find herself, by touring Route 66, but her protective sister doesn’t want her to go alone. So she sends Bastian with her, the crime syndicates hacker. The road-trip will turn out life changing for both of them when they agree on a student-teacher dynamic for pleasure purposes.
Lucy has such amazing character progress in this book. She’s trying to shed the indoctrination by forcing herself to do the things that were forbidden or sinful. She’s an amazing sunshine character and I want to protect her with my life. She can use me as a human shield. “Let us stomp the road” got me. Lucy finds her voice more and more until she simply takes what she wants, which is Bastian. Bastian is a grumpy, silent and stoic character after my heart. But he’s secretly a freak. I need him biblically. I need him in a way that’s concerning to feminism. He’s got his own mental demons, which are very prominent in this book and it’s a long way before he overcomes them and it’s not made easy because of things that happen to Bastian. My heart was in pieces for him. Special shout out to the spice in this book because that was unreal. One of the hottest books I’ve read in a while. That piercing Bastian has??? It made me fucking feral.
August 21, 2023
4.5 ⭐️
I was dying for lucy and bastian’s story and it certainly delivered!!! bastian has been a mystery to us since was I ever here and i’d been so excited to learn more about him! and meeting lucy in was I ever real made me so so so excited for this one!!! lucy has just escaped the sacro nuntio cult and has been trying to adjust to her new life. she decides she wants to go on a cross country road trip and experience some new things. her older sister lenix is hesitant to let her go alone so she her husband bribes his cousin (bastian) to take her. lucy is hesitant at first bc bastian is the quiet recluse of the group but eventually they set off on their journey. throughout the road trip bastian thinks a lot of the things lucy wants to do are silly. but he realizes that every day things that are mundane to him are so new and exciting to lucy. as time goes on they begin to form an attachment to one another which bastian tries to fight but can’t hehe. bastian finds out about her road trip bucket list and some of the naughtier things that are on the list 😈 and in time they agree to a friends with benefits situation that gets real hot REAL FAST. the spice between bastian and lucy was unreal 🫠🫠🫠 I loved every single moment of it!!! lucy felt so repressed for so long due to what she had experienced in the cult. but bastian helped her to explore her sexuality and take control of her body and her life as a whole. it was a beautiful sexual awakening for lucy 😭. we got to see more of bastian’s past which was truly so devastating. I wanted to squeeze him fr 😩 and the s*** that went down in the 3rd act truly had me in shambles it’s a so sick 💔💔💔 naomi you’ll be hearing from my lawyer!!!!!!!! although we got to learn more about lucy and bastian’s past I feel like it only brushed the surface and I felt like I wanted to know more. but I loved seeing how everything worked out in the end and how lucy fought for bastian 🫶🏼 i’m genuinely so sad to see this series come to an end!!! it was beautiful to see naomi start out as a tiktok reader and reviewer, to her announcing she’s writing a book, and completing a series 🥹. I love how she is able to create these beautiful love stories with nasty spice and a spiritual/past life connection. it makes for such a special and unique story. i’m so proud and can’t wait to see what’s next 🤍🤍🤍🤍
I was dying for lucy and bastian’s story and it certainly delivered!!! bastian has been a mystery to us since was I ever here and i’d been so excited to learn more about him! and meeting lucy in was I ever real made me so so so excited for this one!!! lucy has just escaped the sacro nuntio cult and has been trying to adjust to her new life. she decides she wants to go on a cross country road trip and experience some new things. her older sister lenix is hesitant to let her go alone so she her husband bribes his cousin (bastian) to take her. lucy is hesitant at first bc bastian is the quiet recluse of the group but eventually they set off on their journey. throughout the road trip bastian thinks a lot of the things lucy wants to do are silly. but he realizes that every day things that are mundane to him are so new and exciting to lucy. as time goes on they begin to form an attachment to one another which bastian tries to fight but can’t hehe. bastian finds out about her road trip bucket list and some of the naughtier things that are on the list 😈 and in time they agree to a friends with benefits situation that gets real hot REAL FAST. the spice between bastian and lucy was unreal 🫠🫠🫠 I loved every single moment of it!!! lucy felt so repressed for so long due to what she had experienced in the cult. but bastian helped her to explore her sexuality and take control of her body and her life as a whole. it was a beautiful sexual awakening for lucy 😭. we got to see more of bastian’s past which was truly so devastating. I wanted to squeeze him fr 😩 and the s*** that went down in the 3rd act truly had me in shambles it’s a so sick 💔💔💔 naomi you’ll be hearing from my lawyer!!!!!!!! although we got to learn more about lucy and bastian’s past I feel like it only brushed the surface and I felt like I wanted to know more. but I loved seeing how everything worked out in the end and how lucy fought for bastian 🫶🏼 i’m genuinely so sad to see this series come to an end!!! it was beautiful to see naomi start out as a tiktok reader and reviewer, to her announcing she’s writing a book, and completing a series 🥹. I love how she is able to create these beautiful love stories with nasty spice and a spiritual/past life connection. it makes for such a special and unique story. i’m so proud and can’t wait to see what’s next 🤍🤍🤍🤍
August 1, 2023
I think this series saved the best for last, in terms of stories. Something about Lucy and Bastian just broke me and put me back together again. There is nothing that I have in common with either of the main characters and yet I could see myself in their choices and emotional reactions.
Lucy's innocence and desire to just get out and explore - and learn who she is after years spent abused in a cult - was beautiful. It wasn't played down, it was respected and allowed to inform her character and let her grow. Her simple quest for freedom turns into a show of resilience and strength and complete joy at being able to do new things.
Bastian, oh Bastian. The quiet ones contain multitudes. He is keeping his own demons at bay, sometimes by a thread. He also uses those demons of addiction to hold himself back, to cut off anything deeper for fear of what might happen.
These two wounded souls are thrown together on a road trip, Bastian as the grumpy paid babysitter to Lucy. Lucy wants a chance, finally, to do things on her own without someone telling her what is allowed. And somewhere between bucket lists, kitschy tourist attractions, and roadside motel rooms, these two find a lot more than either of them bargained for.
The trauma that they both have is so carefully written, never being played lightly. It informs both Lucy and Bastian's actions. It also shows that trauma and healing are not linear. Once you are out of a dark moment, things are not magically better forever. Both Lucy and Bastian have to learn, to a degree, how to talk to one another, and how to not let their pasts steal their futures, even if they do guide them.
This is one of those books that just sneaks up on you and at the end, you're crying. It has delicious spice, yes, but also a quiet feeling of just wanting to find yourself in a world that you don't yet feel is your own. Lucy's bright optimism is a perfect counterpoint to Bastian's spikes-out exterior. As I read their story, I couldn't help but think about the Tracy Chapman song "Fast Car" (it's been back in the media lately with a recent country cover). The story of the song and the story here are not the same, but the lyrics do kinda fit:
"You got a fast car
I want a ticket to anywhere
Maybe we make a deal
Maybe together we can get somewhere."
*Thank you to the author, Naomi Loud, for the ARC. All opinions are my own.
Lucy's innocence and desire to just get out and explore - and learn who she is after years spent abused in a cult - was beautiful. It wasn't played down, it was respected and allowed to inform her character and let her grow. Her simple quest for freedom turns into a show of resilience and strength and complete joy at being able to do new things.
Bastian, oh Bastian. The quiet ones contain multitudes. He is keeping his own demons at bay, sometimes by a thread. He also uses those demons of addiction to hold himself back, to cut off anything deeper for fear of what might happen.
These two wounded souls are thrown together on a road trip, Bastian as the grumpy paid babysitter to Lucy. Lucy wants a chance, finally, to do things on her own without someone telling her what is allowed. And somewhere between bucket lists, kitschy tourist attractions, and roadside motel rooms, these two find a lot more than either of them bargained for.
The trauma that they both have is so carefully written, never being played lightly. It informs both Lucy and Bastian's actions. It also shows that trauma and healing are not linear. Once you are out of a dark moment, things are not magically better forever. Both Lucy and Bastian have to learn, to a degree, how to talk to one another, and how to not let their pasts steal their futures, even if they do guide them.
This is one of those books that just sneaks up on you and at the end, you're crying. It has delicious spice, yes, but also a quiet feeling of just wanting to find yourself in a world that you don't yet feel is your own. Lucy's bright optimism is a perfect counterpoint to Bastian's spikes-out exterior. As I read their story, I couldn't help but think about the Tracy Chapman song "Fast Car" (it's been back in the media lately with a recent country cover). The story of the song and the story here are not the same, but the lyrics do kinda fit:
"You got a fast car
I want a ticket to anywhere
Maybe we make a deal
Maybe together we can get somewhere."
*Thank you to the author, Naomi Loud, for the ARC. All opinions are my own.
September 11, 2023
I really enjoyed the first two books of the series and was so excited for book three! Quiet Bastian with Lucy wanting to ‘experience’ America? It was a nice road trip growing romance story. The innocent and bad boy(;
August 4, 2023
3.25 stars
I accidentally jumped in at the 3rd book but that was fine. It was a good read that I struggled to put down.
There were just some holes during the dramatic scene at the end that never got answered. The person who got shot-I assume he was a mole / snitch/ betrayed them? It never was addressed or explained. The earlier scene with the potential betrayer was also unusual in the zero warm up to it.
Otherwise, I did enjoy this book.
I accidentally jumped in at the 3rd book but that was fine. It was a good read that I struggled to put down.
There were just some holes during the dramatic scene at the end that never got answered. The person who got shot-I assume he was a mole / snitch/ betrayed them? It never was addressed or explained. The earlier scene with the potential betrayer was also unusual in the zero warm up to it.
Otherwise, I did enjoy this book.
July 20, 2024
I am UNWELL! 😭😭😭
OMG THIS ONE WAS MY FAVORITE 😭❤️
I adored all 3 books but this one. WOW!
Bastian is intriguing from the first book, he is Connor’s silent cousin. He barely talks, mostly seems bored with everything and everyone, doesn’t party, no one sees him with anyone, even to get him to smile seems to be a very hard task that no one is able to accomplish. Obviously Connor and Byzantine know his past and struggles but it’s not talked about.
He is enigmatic, mysterious, dangerous and now he needs to accompany Lucy (Lenix sister) to a road trip and he is NOT happy about it.
Lucy is fresh out of a cult where she lived her whole life. She’s 24 years old and has zero experience in life. She was married at 12 years old and suffered years of abuse and rape, she’s been free for a year and wants to experience life and now she proposes to Bastian to “teach” her about sex because her experience is limited, horrible and she has no idea how to have a normal sexual life. He was reluctant in the beginning but obviously he ends up REALLY TEACHING her and oh boy if experience was what she wanted, she got it.
The story is not superficial, the road trip is everything, but it also shows a lot of Bastian past and why he is how he is now, and shows Lucy’s struggles too. Bastian never had it easy, he was physically abused by his father and he is an addict. And knowing his past makes the story even more devastating and beautiful. I simply adored ! ❤️
OMG THIS ONE WAS MY FAVORITE 😭❤️
I adored all 3 books but this one. WOW!
Bastian is intriguing from the first book, he is Connor’s silent cousin. He barely talks, mostly seems bored with everything and everyone, doesn’t party, no one sees him with anyone, even to get him to smile seems to be a very hard task that no one is able to accomplish. Obviously Connor and Byzantine know his past and struggles but it’s not talked about.
He is enigmatic, mysterious, dangerous and now he needs to accompany Lucy (Lenix sister) to a road trip and he is NOT happy about it.
Lucy is fresh out of a cult where she lived her whole life. She’s 24 years old and has zero experience in life. She was married at 12 years old and suffered years of abuse and rape, she’s been free for a year and wants to experience life and now she proposes to Bastian to “teach” her about sex because her experience is limited, horrible and she has no idea how to have a normal sexual life. He was reluctant in the beginning but obviously he ends up REALLY TEACHING her and oh boy if experience was what she wanted, she got it.
The story is not superficial, the road trip is everything, but it also shows a lot of Bastian past and why he is how he is now, and shows Lucy’s struggles too. Bastian never had it easy, he was physically abused by his father and he is an addict. And knowing his past makes the story even more devastating and beautiful. I simply adored ! ❤️
August 8, 2023
I was so excited for Bastians story from the moment he was introduced in the first book and let me tell you this book did not disappoint!
A year after Lucy has escaped the cult she was raised in, she’s ready to get out and experience a world that she was cut off from for so long. She decides to take a cross country road trip but when her sister refuses to let her go alone, Bastian is given no other choice but to go along and keep her safe. Later when Lucy decides she’d also like to experience pleasure for the first time, Bastian is more than willing to be her teacher.
I’m in love with these characters and this story and everything about the way Naomi wrote it.
I knew I’d love Bastian but I was completely unprepared to fall as hard as I did for Lucy. These characters have such a special place in my heart and they go through a lot throughout this story to get to their happily ever after and I just want to hug them so bad.
The spice is also fantastic if you were wondering. It’s so hot. Bastian is literal perfection I’ll just say that.
Highly recommend this and the other two books in the series as well!
Just make sure to check content warnings! There’s definitely some heavy stuff in this one.
A year after Lucy has escaped the cult she was raised in, she’s ready to get out and experience a world that she was cut off from for so long. She decides to take a cross country road trip but when her sister refuses to let her go alone, Bastian is given no other choice but to go along and keep her safe. Later when Lucy decides she’d also like to experience pleasure for the first time, Bastian is more than willing to be her teacher.
I’m in love with these characters and this story and everything about the way Naomi wrote it.
I knew I’d love Bastian but I was completely unprepared to fall as hard as I did for Lucy. These characters have such a special place in my heart and they go through a lot throughout this story to get to their happily ever after and I just want to hug them so bad.
The spice is also fantastic if you were wondering. It’s so hot. Bastian is literal perfection I’ll just say that.
Highly recommend this and the other two books in the series as well!
Just make sure to check content warnings! There’s definitely some heavy stuff in this one.
July 16, 2023
I was lucky enough to receive an ARC in exchange for an honest review - thank you, Naomi!
This is the perfect conclusion to a series that I can honestly say has changed my life. The thought and the care and the passion Naomi puts into each character, each backstory, comes through every word.
Please, please be mindful of the triggers listed in the beginning of the book. This is a dark romance and is categorized as such for a reason. No matter how glowing this review is going to be, put your mental health first. This book is ✨dark✨ (in the best way, imo), but it’s not dark for shock value.
Lucy and Bastian are the most unlikely road-trip partners: she is inexperienced sunshine trying to figure out the world after being raised and spending the majority of her life in a religious cult and he is hard, unrelenting grumpy hardened by a lifetime of hell.
The way the narration changes between each character’s POV is masterfully done - each character narrates in their own distinct voice, even down to the narration in Lucy’s chapters changing and reverting back to her “old speech” when she’s stressed or overwhelmed. And the spice? THE SPICE??? Next-level. Top-tier. Life-changing. This book taught me things about myself that I’d never even considered before (the pool table - iykyk).
If I could give it 15 stars I would. If someone ever asked me what books I thought someone needed to read in their lifetime, this entire series is on the list.
This is the perfect conclusion to a series that I can honestly say has changed my life. The thought and the care and the passion Naomi puts into each character, each backstory, comes through every word.
Please, please be mindful of the triggers listed in the beginning of the book. This is a dark romance and is categorized as such for a reason. No matter how glowing this review is going to be, put your mental health first. This book is ✨dark✨ (in the best way, imo), but it’s not dark for shock value.
Lucy and Bastian are the most unlikely road-trip partners: she is inexperienced sunshine trying to figure out the world after being raised and spending the majority of her life in a religious cult and he is hard, unrelenting grumpy hardened by a lifetime of hell.
The way the narration changes between each character’s POV is masterfully done - each character narrates in their own distinct voice, even down to the narration in Lucy’s chapters changing and reverting back to her “old speech” when she’s stressed or overwhelmed. And the spice? THE SPICE??? Next-level. Top-tier. Life-changing. This book taught me things about myself that I’d never even considered before (the pool table - iykyk).
If I could give it 15 stars I would. If someone ever asked me what books I thought someone needed to read in their lifetime, this entire series is on the list.
August 10, 2023
I have so much love for this entire series, and this third book delivered just as I knew it would.
Joyful, emotional, romantic and deliciously painfully dark at certain points.
The pure hope that was woven through it all was so wonderful, and made it feel a lot lighter than the previous two.
Joyful, emotional, romantic and deliciously painfully dark at certain points.
The pure hope that was woven through it all was so wonderful, and made it feel a lot lighter than the previous two.
April 15, 2024
In true Naomi fashion my heart was ripped out, stomped on, and then smushed back into my chest cavity in the most delicate manner. Hands down my favorite of the series, my fave couple 🖤 Basty boy and Baby Blue are to be protected at ALL COSTS
July 19, 2023
Thank you for the early copy of this book!
This book was so raw and gritty (and gory at times) and can honestly say I didn't expect a single thing that happened in this book.
Bastian is an ex addict and Lucy has recently escaped the religious cult she spent most of her life in. Lucy wants to go on a road trip and her sister sends Bastian with her to keep her safe. Eventually their relationship changes and Lucy asks him to teach her how to experience pleasure.
They are the most unlikely pairing but it works so well.
This book is the third in the series and it would make more sense to read them in order but if you really wanted I think you could read as a standalone.
I definitely recommend checking content warnings for this book
This book was so raw and gritty (and gory at times) and can honestly say I didn't expect a single thing that happened in this book.
Bastian is an ex addict and Lucy has recently escaped the religious cult she spent most of her life in. Lucy wants to go on a road trip and her sister sends Bastian with her to keep her safe. Eventually their relationship changes and Lucy asks him to teach her how to experience pleasure.
They are the most unlikely pairing but it works so well.
This book is the third in the series and it would make more sense to read them in order but if you really wanted I think you could read as a standalone.
I definitely recommend checking content warnings for this book
August 15, 2024
I need a couple days...or years to come back down from this.
August 3, 2023
Well… this is a bittersweet goodbye to this series and universe, but what a way to get out with a bang. 😮💨🤌
Naomi’s writing, as always, is immaculate. You FEEL things through the words on the page. I have so many passages that I highlighted, I can’t even count them at this point — approximately 1/3rd of the book tbh. 🥹
- - -
This book covers the story of Lucy, Lenix’s sister, a year after she escaped from the cult (Sacro Nuntio) she was in. She wants to go on a road trip across the US on road 66, desperate to find her footing in this new world.
But Lenix, always the protective bigger sister, doesn’t want her to go alone. So she (and Connor) decide to have Bastian go with her. Obviously, Bastian goes reluctantly on this road trip, and follows a long journey of activities and discoveries they are somewhat forced to experience together.
Only, at some point, Bastian is no longer impassive and bored by this experience, and Lucy and him find themselves irrevocably attracted to each other.
I’ll let you guess what happens next. 🥰🫣
- - -
Anyway, as always, I fell head over heels in love with the characters and their chemistry. I mean the TENSION, the SPICE, the HEARTWARMING MOMENT, but also the HURT.
I felt every possible emotion with this book. Naomi’s writing is ✨chef’s kiss✨.
I’ll leave you with a quote from chapter 30 : “Woof.” 🥵🌶️
I can’t even thank Naomi enough for the privilege of having read the ARC of this book. 🩶🩶🩶
Naomi’s writing, as always, is immaculate. You FEEL things through the words on the page. I have so many passages that I highlighted, I can’t even count them at this point — approximately 1/3rd of the book tbh. 🥹
- - -
This book covers the story of Lucy, Lenix’s sister, a year after she escaped from the cult (Sacro Nuntio) she was in. She wants to go on a road trip across the US on road 66, desperate to find her footing in this new world.
But Lenix, always the protective bigger sister, doesn’t want her to go alone. So she (and Connor) decide to have Bastian go with her. Obviously, Bastian goes reluctantly on this road trip, and follows a long journey of activities and discoveries they are somewhat forced to experience together.
Only, at some point, Bastian is no longer impassive and bored by this experience, and Lucy and him find themselves irrevocably attracted to each other.
I’ll let you guess what happens next. 🥰🫣
- - -
Anyway, as always, I fell head over heels in love with the characters and their chemistry. I mean the TENSION, the SPICE, the HEARTWARMING MOMENT, but also the HURT.
I felt every possible emotion with this book. Naomi’s writing is ✨chef’s kiss✨.
I’ll leave you with a quote from chapter 30 : “Woof.” 🥵🌶️
I can’t even thank Naomi enough for the privilege of having read the ARC of this book. 🩶🩶🩶
July 16, 2023
I received this book as an ARC and I can truly say that this is a book that will stay with you. Whether you have been through a similar experience to the main characters, been through an experience that conjured the same internal conflicts, or know someone who has. Please check trigger warnings because this book has difficult themes however, if you choose to read this you won’t regret it or be disappointed. It is my favorite book in the series and it’s a crime that goodreads only allows 5 stars.
This is a book of growth, love, acceptance, self loathing, self discovery, sexual liberation, and healing.
I finished this book in less than 24 hours and once you start you won’t put it down.
This is a book of growth, love, acceptance, self loathing, self discovery, sexual liberation, and healing.
I finished this book in less than 24 hours and once you start you won’t put it down.
March 24, 2024
Yet another amazing book in the Was I Ever series. I was dying to know Lucy's healing journey since I finished the second book. I love how much she came out of her shell for this one. And I am sad the series is over!!! I need more!!!
August 3, 2023
4 stars 🌟
Ok this is going to sound really weird but I’m going to take a star off with how much this book hurt me 😂 The last 20-25% of the book took me for a ride to the point that I was bawling my eyes out at 3 am while simultaneously not being able to put the book down. I just felt so much for Bastian. The author really painted the picture of how punishing(?) (I don’t even know what the right word is) being a recovering drug addict is. And to see him be forced and put back into that situation honestly broke my heart.
Other than that the other 80% of the book was such a comfort read 😭 We love the forced proximity and Lucy coming out of her shell!! You’d think these two would be the last people to work out but they just made sense. I want to remember them before that last bit of the book happened. These two deserve nothing but love and peace after all the hell they’ve been through.
Ok this is going to sound really weird but I’m going to take a star off with how much this book hurt me 😂 The last 20-25% of the book took me for a ride to the point that I was bawling my eyes out at 3 am while simultaneously not being able to put the book down. I just felt so much for Bastian. The author really painted the picture of how punishing(?) (I don’t even know what the right word is) being a recovering drug addict is. And to see him be forced and put back into that situation honestly broke my heart.
Other than that the other 80% of the book was such a comfort read 😭 We love the forced proximity and Lucy coming out of her shell!! You’d think these two would be the last people to work out but they just made sense. I want to remember them before that last bit of the book happened. These two deserve nothing but love and peace after all the hell they’ve been through.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
September 14, 2025
♾️⭐️
So beautiful so heartbreaking and so heart warming too
This book my god this book made me go through so many emotions
I loved Bastian since he was shown from the first book he was so intriguing and I knew his story would break my heart and it did
I loved how perfectly Naomi wrote about his addiction his withdrawal
It was all so real and I really felt sad for Bastian
I also loved that he went with her everywhere just to make her happy
Him buying her the cowboy hat GRAAHHH
“Baby blue” that nickname was so cutee
Bastian was so freaking hot smart and also really vulnerable I loved that about him
Lucy my Lucy baby I loved that she healed herself and got so strong on her own
It was such an amazing journey reading about her letting go all her traumas and finding happiness again
Bastian and Lucy were like two broken pieces fixing each other
I loved when Bastian made Lucy become more angry and just wreck havoc
It was also had interestingly a lot of spice which was super hot!
That epilogue was hella spicy!! I loved it!
Can’t believe this series is over already I mean I loved each one of these characters so much
Byzantine and Sunny my forever babies
Connor and Lenix my fiery babies
And now Bastian and Lucy they all are so close to my heart and each one of their stories spoke to me
I saw myself in these characters I loved that they were all so realistic and vulnerable
Will miss reading these for the first time!
So beautiful so heartbreaking and so heart warming too
This book my god this book made me go through so many emotions
I loved Bastian since he was shown from the first book he was so intriguing and I knew his story would break my heart and it did
I loved how perfectly Naomi wrote about his addiction his withdrawal
It was all so real and I really felt sad for Bastian
I also loved that he went with her everywhere just to make her happy
Him buying her the cowboy hat GRAAHHH
“Baby blue” that nickname was so cutee
Bastian was so freaking hot smart and also really vulnerable I loved that about him
Lucy my Lucy baby I loved that she healed herself and got so strong on her own
It was such an amazing journey reading about her letting go all her traumas and finding happiness again
Bastian and Lucy were like two broken pieces fixing each other
I loved when Bastian made Lucy become more angry and just wreck havoc
It was also had interestingly a lot of spice which was super hot!
That epilogue was hella spicy!! I loved it!
Can’t believe this series is over already I mean I loved each one of these characters so much
Byzantine and Sunny my forever babies
Connor and Lenix my fiery babies
And now Bastian and Lucy they all are so close to my heart and each one of their stories spoke to me
I saw myself in these characters I loved that they were all so realistic and vulnerable
Will miss reading these for the first time!
September 3, 2023
This really was not it for me… I think Lucy’s story was sad and glad she escaped her whole life but I feel like the way Bastian treated her does not reflect how someone who went through what she went through would want to be treated .. just had a tough time connecting with their relationship as a whole and when Barker came into the mix I really was over it … weird story
December 18, 2024
When Naomi told me this was her favorite book she had ever written I didn’t think there was any way it could top all of her other books I’ve read. I honestly don’t even know how to express how much this series changed me and I wish I could read them all again for the first time immediately.
After being rescued by Lenix, Lucy has spent her first year out of the cult finding herself again and acclimating to “normal” life. Unlearning the harmful things she was taught and the abuse she suffered through therapy and support she decides she wants to take a road trip to really find herself and feel free. Broody Bastian and “hired” to escort her and protect her on said road trip and throughout their journey starts to feel like this was all one cosmic reality that was meant to be.
As Lucy starts experiencing life she also wants to experience pleasure and freedom in other ways. Eliciting the help of Bastian the two start to learn each other and experiment with each other in ways that Lucy had never even considered. When Bastian disappears leaving Lucy stranded and alone she knows that something bad has happened. Bastian must not only face real life demons but the demons of his past and his mind as he fights to overcome and survive.This book was the darkest of the series while also giving such low lows it had such high highs.
The love these two grew, cherished and shared was nothing short of a masterpiece. The slow friendship, tension, exploration, dedication, and serendipity of the whole story literally had me in awe. Bastian and Lucy are such sweet souls and them finding their way to one another was written in the stars. Even through almost losing Bastian, Lucy never falters. She is one of the strongest FMC’s I’ve ever read and I never wanted their story to end.
Its not often that an entire series moves me so much that I can already feel the book hangover setting in. Theses stories and these characters altered by brain chemistry in such an astronomical way. I cannot begin to recommend enough that anyone and everyone HAS TO READ THESE BOOKS.
After being rescued by Lenix, Lucy has spent her first year out of the cult finding herself again and acclimating to “normal” life. Unlearning the harmful things she was taught and the abuse she suffered through therapy and support she decides she wants to take a road trip to really find herself and feel free. Broody Bastian and “hired” to escort her and protect her on said road trip and throughout their journey starts to feel like this was all one cosmic reality that was meant to be.
As Lucy starts experiencing life she also wants to experience pleasure and freedom in other ways. Eliciting the help of Bastian the two start to learn each other and experiment with each other in ways that Lucy had never even considered. When Bastian disappears leaving Lucy stranded and alone she knows that something bad has happened. Bastian must not only face real life demons but the demons of his past and his mind as he fights to overcome and survive.This book was the darkest of the series while also giving such low lows it had such high highs.
The love these two grew, cherished and shared was nothing short of a masterpiece. The slow friendship, tension, exploration, dedication, and serendipity of the whole story literally had me in awe. Bastian and Lucy are such sweet souls and them finding their way to one another was written in the stars. Even through almost losing Bastian, Lucy never falters. She is one of the strongest FMC’s I’ve ever read and I never wanted their story to end.
Its not often that an entire series moves me so much that I can already feel the book hangover setting in. Theses stories and these characters altered by brain chemistry in such an astronomical way. I cannot begin to recommend enough that anyone and everyone HAS TO READ THESE BOOKS.
July 31, 2023
This whole series, but especially this one, feel so authentic and real. Not in the “this is how actual gangsters act” but in this is how drug addicts feel, even 15+ years out, this is what grief feels like in multiple forms, this is how (some) people react to trauma. It’s just real. It makes the story that much deeper and I loved it so much.
Lucy and Bastian’s story is fun, wild, innocent, and fiery! I love the play of just how starkly different their characters are - Lucy is naïve, sweet, wants to live and experience everything while Bastian has seen so much and thinks he’s content with his hacker life. The clash of these two sparks a passion in both of them that is palpable in the pages.
Lucy and Bastian’s story is fun, wild, innocent, and fiery! I love the play of just how starkly different their characters are - Lucy is naïve, sweet, wants to live and experience everything while Bastian has seen so much and thinks he’s content with his hacker life. The clash of these two sparks a passion in both of them that is palpable in the pages.
August 19, 2024
4.5 stars ⭐️ in denial that this series is now complete!
Was I Ever Free made me feel so many emotions-sadness, anger, joy-and I loved every single second of it.
I’d have to say this one was my favourite out of the series, there was just something about Bastian and Lucy’s story. I love road trip storylines, and throw in a grumpy teacher + sunshine student trope…game over for me!
I was in awe of the journey Bastian and Lucy went on; both physically and mentally. Where they started and how they ended was heartbreakingly beautiful. I wanted to give them both a big hug.
This story had action, mystery and some of the best spice I’ve ever read.
Thank you, Naomi! An amazing debut series!
Was I Ever Free made me feel so many emotions-sadness, anger, joy-and I loved every single second of it.
I’d have to say this one was my favourite out of the series, there was just something about Bastian and Lucy’s story. I love road trip storylines, and throw in a grumpy teacher + sunshine student trope…game over for me!
I was in awe of the journey Bastian and Lucy went on; both physically and mentally. Where they started and how they ended was heartbreakingly beautiful. I wanted to give them both a big hug.
This story had action, mystery and some of the best spice I’ve ever read.
Thank you, Naomi! An amazing debut series!
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