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The Story Of Us #1
Before Us
One summer. That’s all it took for everything to change.
Love. Heartbreak. Lies and betrayal.
Escaping was what I thought I needed, What I wasn’t expecting was to be torn between two paths.
One was safe and easy. The other would inevitably end in heartbreak.
One summer. One choice.
I never would have expected it to end like this, but one look in his eyes and I knew...
Things would never be the same again.
Love. Heartbreak. Lies and betrayal.
Escaping was what I thought I needed, What I wasn’t expecting was to be torn between two paths.
One was safe and easy. The other would inevitably end in heartbreak.
One summer. One choice.
I never would have expected it to end like this, but one look in his eyes and I knew...
Things would never be the same again.
- GenresRomance
384 pages, Kindle Edition
Published May 25, 2023
10 people are currently reading
108 people want to read
About the author
L.N. White
1 book36 followersLN White is an emerging Indie author who enjoys writing contemporary romance stories. This is her first novel in the The Story of Us duet. She lives in the Midwest and is a stay-at-home mom to three boys. She is a November Scorpio which only drives her creative side even more. As a child she spent time dreaming of belonging in romance novels and now as an adult has written one. When she’s not writing, she enjoys baking, cooking, binging the latest reality trash tv, and catching up on reading. She enjoys reading romance above all. There’s nothing a good small town romance story with a morally gray and mysterious love interest who happens to be the hero’s enemy/rival and a rainy afternoon can’t fix.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 48 reviews
May 21, 2023
Dani thought she had her summer plans all figured out... until she walked in on her boyfriend in bed with her best friend! Instead, she flys out to spend the summer with her cousin Sloan and work towards her dream of becoming a professional ballerina.
Seth is Sloan's best friend, and when he gets some life changing news, he turns up at her apartment in the middle of the night. The last thing he expects is to be met at the door by Dani, and to feel so intensely drawn to her. But he's got a secret, and the longer he waits to tell her, the harder it will be...
Their summer together will irrevocably change their lives and test the meaning of life long love. Sometimes true love can overcome all obstacles, but will this be happily ever after?
Thank you to Author @thewriterletty for letting me review this book! I absolutely bawled my eyes out... especially at the end! What a rollercoaster of emotions across such a short span of time. I've been extremely careful to minimise the information I've shared in this review as I want everyone to make the discoveries blind as I did for the full emotional effect ❤
This story delves into the intricacies of life and death, and the depth of the emotions that come with this. I feel so privileged to have witnessed Seth's journey and the light Dani became in his life. The supporting characters in the book became so essential and I'm looking forward to seeing their story be expanded in the second book in the Story of Us duet.
This is one of the best books I've read this year and I highly recommend you pre-order ahead of the May 25th publication date 💕
Trigger warning: to list would give away the storyline, however if you have triggers its worth reading the Author's list ahead of reading
Seth is Sloan's best friend, and when he gets some life changing news, he turns up at her apartment in the middle of the night. The last thing he expects is to be met at the door by Dani, and to feel so intensely drawn to her. But he's got a secret, and the longer he waits to tell her, the harder it will be...
Their summer together will irrevocably change their lives and test the meaning of life long love. Sometimes true love can overcome all obstacles, but will this be happily ever after?
Thank you to Author @thewriterletty for letting me review this book! I absolutely bawled my eyes out... especially at the end! What a rollercoaster of emotions across such a short span of time. I've been extremely careful to minimise the information I've shared in this review as I want everyone to make the discoveries blind as I did for the full emotional effect ❤
This story delves into the intricacies of life and death, and the depth of the emotions that come with this. I feel so privileged to have witnessed Seth's journey and the light Dani became in his life. The supporting characters in the book became so essential and I'm looking forward to seeing their story be expanded in the second book in the Story of Us duet.
This is one of the best books I've read this year and I highly recommend you pre-order ahead of the May 25th publication date 💕
Trigger warning: to list would give away the storyline, however if you have triggers its worth reading the Author's list ahead of reading
May 21, 2023
"My love for you is like my need for oxygen."
🔥 Hidden Truths
🔥 Cousin’s Best Friend
🔥 Touch of Love Triangle w/ Brother's Best Friend/Childhood Love
🔥 Summer Romance + Soulmates
🔥 Emotional Scars
🔥 Dual POV (mainly FMC)
The romance was fast-paced due to the timeline being mainly over a 3-month summer. It kind of had that insta-love feeling at the beginning but quickly turned to what I would say as soulmate love and great chemistry.
The characters were well developed. Seth is definitely boyfriend material, which makes it feel so much more throughout the read. Even though the (mini cliffhanger) ending was predictable for me, it was still an amazing read. I look forward to the next book in the series!
Lack of information about the story/plot was on purpose. I don't want to spoil it and want you to have all the emotions as well! There are trigger warnings, so please read them beforehand if necessary, but they may ruin elements of the storyline.
Overall, this book was well written with all the feels. It's a solid debut novel that I would 100% recommend to others! ✨️
Thank you to the author for an eARC copy of this book. This review is my honest opinion.
🔥 Hidden Truths
🔥 Cousin’s Best Friend
🔥 Touch of Love Triangle w/ Brother's Best Friend/Childhood Love
🔥 Summer Romance + Soulmates
🔥 Emotional Scars
🔥 Dual POV (mainly FMC)
The romance was fast-paced due to the timeline being mainly over a 3-month summer. It kind of had that insta-love feeling at the beginning but quickly turned to what I would say as soulmate love and great chemistry.
The characters were well developed. Seth is definitely boyfriend material, which makes it feel so much more throughout the read. Even though the (mini cliffhanger) ending was predictable for me, it was still an amazing read. I look forward to the next book in the series!
Lack of information about the story/plot was on purpose. I don't want to spoil it and want you to have all the emotions as well! There are trigger warnings, so please read them beforehand if necessary, but they may ruin elements of the storyline.
Overall, this book was well written with all the feels. It's a solid debut novel that I would 100% recommend to others! ✨️
Thank you to the author for an eARC copy of this book. This review is my honest opinion.
May 25, 2023
☆ 4/5 & 1/5 spice
This was such a beautiful, but at the same time, a heartbreaking read. Dani deserves all the love in the world with what she experienced in her life from dealing with death, betrayal, family and friendship issues, falling in love, and experiencing heartbreaks.
After encountering a betrayal from her best friend and boyfriend, Dani takes the opportunity to spend her summer break with her cousin, Sloane. We get to see Dani and Seth’s friendship progress into something more as they spend more time with each other. Their relationship was definitely an insta-love, they connected and had a moment during their first encounter together. Seth is struggling with his health since he has cancer. Seth was unsure whether or not he wanted to tell Dani about his cancer since he didn’t want to burden her and scare her off since their relationship had an expiration date with his diagnosis and that her summer was ending soon.
I was tearing up at some part, felt frustrated with some of the miscommunication, and was happy and cheering on the both of them. I went through an emotional roller coaster with this book. A wonderful and definitely an emotional read! I’m looking forward to book 2!
Tropes:
❥ Hidden truths
❥ Cousin’s best friend
❥ Summer romance
❥ Emotional scar
❥ Insta-love
This was such a beautiful, but at the same time, a heartbreaking read. Dani deserves all the love in the world with what she experienced in her life from dealing with death, betrayal, family and friendship issues, falling in love, and experiencing heartbreaks.
After encountering a betrayal from her best friend and boyfriend, Dani takes the opportunity to spend her summer break with her cousin, Sloane. We get to see Dani and Seth’s friendship progress into something more as they spend more time with each other. Their relationship was definitely an insta-love, they connected and had a moment during their first encounter together. Seth is struggling with his health since he has cancer. Seth was unsure whether or not he wanted to tell Dani about his cancer since he didn’t want to burden her and scare her off since their relationship had an expiration date with his diagnosis and that her summer was ending soon.
I was tearing up at some part, felt frustrated with some of the miscommunication, and was happy and cheering on the both of them. I went through an emotional roller coaster with this book. A wonderful and definitely an emotional read! I’m looking forward to book 2!
Tropes:
❥ Hidden truths
❥ Cousin’s best friend
❥ Summer romance
❥ Emotional scar
❥ Insta-love
May 15, 2023
Before Us, the first book in the Story of Us Duet by L.N. White, featuring an emotional story of betrayal, heartbreak, and love. Already reeling from one unimaginable loss that changed her life and relationships, Dani gets blindsided by a major betrayal that sends her running to her cousin’s town for the summer. While there, she meets someone who has the potential to change her life again, in more ways than one!
This is one of those books that will change you if you let it. There’s so much I’m dying to say, but I don’t want to ruin the experience for anyone else! The world building and the characters are phenomenal, and the emotions are so authentic and raw! While I may have yelled at someone for keeping a secret for so long, I understand the hesitation.😳 This book is just overflowing with angst, love, emotion, and self discovery, though I feel that last one is just beginning! With an ending that broke my heart and gave me hope at the same time, I cannot wait for the second book! I wholeheartedly recommend this duet, and feel this new author is one to watch!!
I received an advanced review copy for free, and am leaving this review voluntarily.⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
#Summerromance #ContemporaryRomance #BeforeUs #Debutnovel #angstyromance #books #bookstagram #romancegram #kindleunlimited #preorder #comingsoon #Reader #LnWhite #wordsmithpublicity #bookrecs #bookreview #ARCreview
This is one of those books that will change you if you let it. There’s so much I’m dying to say, but I don’t want to ruin the experience for anyone else! The world building and the characters are phenomenal, and the emotions are so authentic and raw! While I may have yelled at someone for keeping a secret for so long, I understand the hesitation.😳 This book is just overflowing with angst, love, emotion, and self discovery, though I feel that last one is just beginning! With an ending that broke my heart and gave me hope at the same time, I cannot wait for the second book! I wholeheartedly recommend this duet, and feel this new author is one to watch!!
I received an advanced review copy for free, and am leaving this review voluntarily.⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
#Summerromance #ContemporaryRomance #BeforeUs #Debutnovel #angstyromance #books #bookstagram #romancegram #kindleunlimited #preorder #comingsoon #Reader #LnWhite #wordsmithpublicity #bookrecs #bookreview #ARCreview
May 21, 2023
Wow, what an absolutely beautiful heartbreaking book 💔
After a crappy break up on top of a crappy few years, Dani decides to spend the summer with her cousin in a new city, where she meets Seth, who is her cousins best friend. The attraction is instant, and Dani and Seth begin a beautiful summer romance. But Seth is keeping a devastating secret from Dani, and when she finds out she is shattered.
Dani and Seth are two halfs of the same soul who definitely met in the wrong lifetime. Their love is messy and chaotic and absolutely beautiful.
The way this book was written was phenomenal, and it's hard to believe it's the authors debut! The characters were all so good and relevant to the story, and their development throughout the book was fantastic.
I was so invested in this story that I didn't want to stop reading it, and when real life called and I had to put it down, all I could think about was getting back to the book.
The ending actually broke me. I was a sobbing, heartbroken mess. I need the second part of this duet, like I need my next breath.
Im definitely going to be thinking about this book and these characters for a very long time and will be recommending this book to everyone I speak to 💜
After a crappy break up on top of a crappy few years, Dani decides to spend the summer with her cousin in a new city, where she meets Seth, who is her cousins best friend. The attraction is instant, and Dani and Seth begin a beautiful summer romance. But Seth is keeping a devastating secret from Dani, and when she finds out she is shattered.
Dani and Seth are two halfs of the same soul who definitely met in the wrong lifetime. Their love is messy and chaotic and absolutely beautiful.
The way this book was written was phenomenal, and it's hard to believe it's the authors debut! The characters were all so good and relevant to the story, and their development throughout the book was fantastic.
I was so invested in this story that I didn't want to stop reading it, and when real life called and I had to put it down, all I could think about was getting back to the book.
The ending actually broke me. I was a sobbing, heartbroken mess. I need the second part of this duet, like I need my next breath.
Im definitely going to be thinking about this book and these characters for a very long time and will be recommending this book to everyone I speak to 💜
May 22, 2023
This book is ABSOLUTELY AMAZING. It is one heck of a rollercoaster ride and it pushes your emotional limits to max. L.N. White wrote such a beautiful and powerful story by putting her own twist on it. I love how even though this isn't your typical hallmark romance every piece of love is felt so strongly from each character even through the pain. It's a very raw story that will wake your heart up. I laughed, I cried, and in many parts I was in awe. This is a must read story!
Dani is such a sweet character that gets hit with so many curve balls. I see a lot of my childhood in her in many aspects. It's so easy to connect with her and just feel her raw emotions. The poor girl is put through the ringer but with her tribe she pushes through and finds her own strengths. I love Sloan and how she's just like a sister to Dani even though they're just cousins. Titles mean nothing when the bond is there. Seth and Logan....I can't go into that or I'll set myself up for tears again. I love them both immensely!! Please please read or add this to your TBR!
Dani is such a sweet character that gets hit with so many curve balls. I see a lot of my childhood in her in many aspects. It's so easy to connect with her and just feel her raw emotions. The poor girl is put through the ringer but with her tribe she pushes through and finds her own strengths. I love Sloan and how she's just like a sister to Dani even though they're just cousins. Titles mean nothing when the bond is there. Seth and Logan....I can't go into that or I'll set myself up for tears again. I love them both immensely!! Please please read or add this to your TBR!
May 23, 2023
Y’all are not ready for the first book in this duet. Literally prepare yourself for the heartbreak. Author L.N White did phenomenal with her debut novel! Her words make you feel like you’re experiencing everything right along with Dani and Seth. Just make sure to have the tissues on hand.
May 25, 2023
Once you start reading this book you get sucked in and cannot put it down. This book pulled on my heart strings and I felt myself grieve for a fictional book character. I do not often read a book twice but I know I will read this one again. Truly amazing first book for the author.cannot wait to see what comes next
May 26, 2023
**ARC REVIEW**
This book was a beautiful emotional story that will leave you wanting more
My rating : ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Spice rating: 🌶️
Tropes:
💫 Hidden Truths
💫 Cousin’s best friend
💫 Summer romance
💫 Emotional scars
💫 Insta love
Dani is only 14 when she goes through one of the most heartbreaking losses a girl could go through.
We fast forward to Dani at age 18 and the heartbreak doesn’t stop there as she catches her boyfriend and best friend together!
To escape the heartbreak she goes to visit her cousin Sloan for the summer!
She doesn’t expect to meet Seth, Sloan’s best friend and to fall in love with him.
Their love story is an emotional rollercoaster and a very fast paced one!!! I loved them together but at times I felt like they could have avoided arguments if they talked to each other more!
That ending was sad and I cried so much in those last few chapters! The epilogue was a bit of a shock! I wondered if that might happen but it still shocked me!!
I loved the nickname “Firefly” !!!! You will find out more about this when you read the book!
Glad it’s a duet because I need to know what will happen next !
Can’t wait for everyone to read it!
Thank you to L.N White and Wordsmith Publicity for the arc. This review is my own opinion 😊
This book was a beautiful emotional story that will leave you wanting more
My rating : ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Spice rating: 🌶️
Tropes:
💫 Hidden Truths
💫 Cousin’s best friend
💫 Summer romance
💫 Emotional scars
💫 Insta love
Dani is only 14 when she goes through one of the most heartbreaking losses a girl could go through.
We fast forward to Dani at age 18 and the heartbreak doesn’t stop there as she catches her boyfriend and best friend together!
To escape the heartbreak she goes to visit her cousin Sloan for the summer!
She doesn’t expect to meet Seth, Sloan’s best friend and to fall in love with him.
Their love story is an emotional rollercoaster and a very fast paced one!!! I loved them together but at times I felt like they could have avoided arguments if they talked to each other more!
That ending was sad and I cried so much in those last few chapters! The epilogue was a bit of a shock! I wondered if that might happen but it still shocked me!!
I loved the nickname “Firefly” !!!! You will find out more about this when you read the book!
Glad it’s a duet because I need to know what will happen next !
Can’t wait for everyone to read it!
Thank you to L.N White and Wordsmith Publicity for the arc. This review is my own opinion 😊
September 9, 2023
this book wow 🥲 played with my emotions majorly.
This book starts off with Dani and she finds out that she gets betrayed by her best friend and boyfriend who sleep together. After finding that out she moves with her cousin Sloan for the summer with the dream of one day becoming a professional ballerina.
There she meets her cousins best friend Seth.
Their summer together will ultimately change everything. Will true love prevail or will life get in the way? Thank you to the author for letting me read this book!
This book starts off with Dani and she finds out that she gets betrayed by her best friend and boyfriend who sleep together. After finding that out she moves with her cousin Sloan for the summer with the dream of one day becoming a professional ballerina.
There she meets her cousins best friend Seth.
Their summer together will ultimately change everything. Will true love prevail or will life get in the way? Thank you to the author for letting me read this book!
May 22, 2023
Before Us is a beautifully written contemporary romance featuring Danielle (Dani) Cooper and Seth Rivera.
Dani is a young woman who is no stranger to loss and pain. In her early teens, a tragic accident stole her twin brother away. She was never able to properly grieve his loss, and carried that pain with her. At the end of high school, prior to the summer break, she catches her best friend together with her boyfriend. It is all too much. She decides to take refuge for the summer in the city with her cousin Sloan. It is there she meets Seth, Sloan's best friend.
Seth fell for Dani before he even met her. He saw her photograph at Sloan's apartment and was instantly smitten. When he shows up unexpectedly at Sloan's door in the wee hours, and comes face to face with the girl from the photograph, he is a goner. He wants to spend all his free time with Dani, and she is open to distraction to try to heal her heart.
White takes us on an emotional journey of love and loss, hope and grief. This love story is intense and raw, messy and beautiful. The author quickly pulled me in, and kept me engaged from beginning to end. The characters are very well written and developed. Even the supporting characters are authentic. I thoroughly enjoyed this book and was shocked to learn that it is the writer's debut. I was also elated to find out that a sequel is planned since finishing this book was like being forced to say goodbye to some good friends. Until we meet again...
I highly recommend picking up a copy of Before Us as soon as you can. Just be sure to have a box of tissues at the ready.
Dani is a young woman who is no stranger to loss and pain. In her early teens, a tragic accident stole her twin brother away. She was never able to properly grieve his loss, and carried that pain with her. At the end of high school, prior to the summer break, she catches her best friend together with her boyfriend. It is all too much. She decides to take refuge for the summer in the city with her cousin Sloan. It is there she meets Seth, Sloan's best friend.
Seth fell for Dani before he even met her. He saw her photograph at Sloan's apartment and was instantly smitten. When he shows up unexpectedly at Sloan's door in the wee hours, and comes face to face with the girl from the photograph, he is a goner. He wants to spend all his free time with Dani, and she is open to distraction to try to heal her heart.
White takes us on an emotional journey of love and loss, hope and grief. This love story is intense and raw, messy and beautiful. The author quickly pulled me in, and kept me engaged from beginning to end. The characters are very well written and developed. Even the supporting characters are authentic. I thoroughly enjoyed this book and was shocked to learn that it is the writer's debut. I was also elated to find out that a sequel is planned since finishing this book was like being forced to say goodbye to some good friends. Until we meet again...
I highly recommend picking up a copy of Before Us as soon as you can. Just be sure to have a box of tissues at the ready.
June 9, 2023
Before Us - The Story of Us #1 - Review
Couple: Dani & Seth
Author: L.N. White
Tropes: cancer awareness, summer fling/love, first love, angsty romance, found family
Review: A heartbreaking and angsty read about first loves and their heartbreak. This dual POV book is a story of young love and the tragedy that can occur because of it.
Dani and Seth are two older teens who fall hard and fast without any disregard to the consequences. We meet Dani after she breaks up with her cheating ex and decides to stay with her cousin Olivia for the summer. I found Dani’s character resilient yet achingly innocent in life. I enjoyed her character and joy for dancing and her true love for Seth.
Seth is a young man who has had it in life. We meet him while he is remission for his cancer but we realize it is not what it seems pretty early on. His character is tragic in this book and the secrets he keeps from Dani is really what made me upset with him at times. I found myself understanding of his predicament but still mad he never told anyone he planned to die.
Their romance is quick and true with the ending shocking everyone around them. I hated but loved how tragic this story ended for the two of them but am looking forward to the series as it goes on. The love Seth was able to find in this first book was beautiful and I wanted to hate him for telling Dani to live and love after him.
This book is one that will stay with you for a while after finishing and make you wish book 2 was out now.
Rating: 4/5, that endings….can’t wait for book 2!
Couple: Dani & Seth
Author: L.N. White
Tropes: cancer awareness, summer fling/love, first love, angsty romance, found family
Review: A heartbreaking and angsty read about first loves and their heartbreak. This dual POV book is a story of young love and the tragedy that can occur because of it.
Dani and Seth are two older teens who fall hard and fast without any disregard to the consequences. We meet Dani after she breaks up with her cheating ex and decides to stay with her cousin Olivia for the summer. I found Dani’s character resilient yet achingly innocent in life. I enjoyed her character and joy for dancing and her true love for Seth.
Seth is a young man who has had it in life. We meet him while he is remission for his cancer but we realize it is not what it seems pretty early on. His character is tragic in this book and the secrets he keeps from Dani is really what made me upset with him at times. I found myself understanding of his predicament but still mad he never told anyone he planned to die.
Their romance is quick and true with the ending shocking everyone around them. I hated but loved how tragic this story ended for the two of them but am looking forward to the series as it goes on. The love Seth was able to find in this first book was beautiful and I wanted to hate him for telling Dani to live and love after him.
This book is one that will stay with you for a while after finishing and make you wish book 2 was out now.
Rating: 4/5, that endings….can’t wait for book 2!
July 4, 2023
Soulmates ✔️
Summer romance ✔️
Hidden secrets ✔️
Love at first sight ✔️
Cousins best friend ✔️
Before I start, I am warning you that you WILL cry at the end of this book, and if you don’t, it’s confirmed that you don’t have. A heart. I am not okay. This book ruined me and I feel so empty now I’ve finished it.
What started off as a story about one couple turned into a story about soulmates, and I will forever love the forever for giving Danielle Seth.
I was lucky enough to recieve this as an arc however due to my health I was unable to review the story in time let alone finish it for the book tour. Despite this, I have bo finished the story and it’s one I wish I carried on reading and never finished because my heart is in tiny litttle pieces on the floor.
Danielle and Seth are a beautiful couple and their story will live on forever despite the circumstances they have both had to face. Seth and Danielle will forever find one another in the next life, the life after that, and the life after that. I am sure of it.
If you’re looking for a story that will have you wanting to scream at the author, hug the characters and end up in a portfolio with fictional characters, then this is for you.
Open your heart to this wonderful story, you will not regret it.
Thank you to the author for allowing me to have an ARC!
Summer romance ✔️
Hidden secrets ✔️
Love at first sight ✔️
Cousins best friend ✔️
Before I start, I am warning you that you WILL cry at the end of this book, and if you don’t, it’s confirmed that you don’t have. A heart. I am not okay. This book ruined me and I feel so empty now I’ve finished it.
What started off as a story about one couple turned into a story about soulmates, and I will forever love the forever for giving Danielle Seth.
I was lucky enough to recieve this as an arc however due to my health I was unable to review the story in time let alone finish it for the book tour. Despite this, I have bo finished the story and it’s one I wish I carried on reading and never finished because my heart is in tiny litttle pieces on the floor.
Danielle and Seth are a beautiful couple and their story will live on forever despite the circumstances they have both had to face. Seth and Danielle will forever find one another in the next life, the life after that, and the life after that. I am sure of it.
If you’re looking for a story that will have you wanting to scream at the author, hug the characters and end up in a portfolio with fictional characters, then this is for you.
Open your heart to this wonderful story, you will not regret it.
Thank you to the author for allowing me to have an ARC!
April 15, 2025
Before Us by LN White took me on a whirlwind of emotions, and I wasn’t expecting it to hit me as hard as it did. When Dani’s world shatters at 14, she’s forced to grow up quickly, and when the betrayal from her boyfriend and best friend follows years later, she’s heartbroken again. To get away from it all, she spends the summer with her cousin Sloan, and that’s where she meets Seth, Sloan’s best friend. From their first encounter, the chemistry between them is undeniable, and what starts as a summer romance quickly becomes something deeper.
This book definitely kept me turning pages late into the night, and while I wasn’t sure where the story was headed, it was impossible not to get wrapped up in Dani and Seth’s journey. Their love story is passionate and raw, but also messy, as they each have their own emotional scars to deal with. The way Dani and Seth’s connection builds felt natural, and their moments together made me smile, even when things got tough for them.
The ending was a complete surprise—I definitely didn’t see it coming! But it left me with a little hope, despite the tears, and I can’t wait to see how the next part of their story unfolds. If you love stories about young love, personal growth, and overcoming heartbreak, Before Us is an emotional rollercoaster that you’ll want to read.
This book definitely kept me turning pages late into the night, and while I wasn’t sure where the story was headed, it was impossible not to get wrapped up in Dani and Seth’s journey. Their love story is passionate and raw, but also messy, as they each have their own emotional scars to deal with. The way Dani and Seth’s connection builds felt natural, and their moments together made me smile, even when things got tough for them.
The ending was a complete surprise—I definitely didn’t see it coming! But it left me with a little hope, despite the tears, and I can’t wait to see how the next part of their story unfolds. If you love stories about young love, personal growth, and overcoming heartbreak, Before Us is an emotional rollercoaster that you’ll want to read.
May 15, 2025
After a heartbreaking betrayal by her boyfriend and best friend, Dani escapes to This summer will change both their lives—and test what it truly means to love someone for a lifetime.
Sometimes love can overcome anything… but will theirs be a happily ever after?
They were two souls, bruised and burdened, just trying to make it through the summer. Neither of them expected to find each other, and yet, somehow, they did—like fate knew they needed that kind of love.
Their connection was instant, but it was the slow, quiet moments—the glances, the laughter, the comfort—that made it unforgettable. They didn’t just fall for each other, they healed in each other’s presence.
This book was more than just a summer romance. It was a raw, emotional journey through heartbreak, hope, love, and the bittersweet beauty of timing. The characters were so deeply human, I felt every moment with them. Their pain, their joy, their impossible choices—it all felt real.
I cried. I ached. I held my breath.
And when I finished, I just sat there… not ready to leave the world the author had built.
If you’re looking for a story that will touch your heart, break it a little, and still leave you full of love—this is the one.
Sometimes love can overcome anything… but will theirs be a happily ever after?
They were two souls, bruised and burdened, just trying to make it through the summer. Neither of them expected to find each other, and yet, somehow, they did—like fate knew they needed that kind of love.
Their connection was instant, but it was the slow, quiet moments—the glances, the laughter, the comfort—that made it unforgettable. They didn’t just fall for each other, they healed in each other’s presence.
This book was more than just a summer romance. It was a raw, emotional journey through heartbreak, hope, love, and the bittersweet beauty of timing. The characters were so deeply human, I felt every moment with them. Their pain, their joy, their impossible choices—it all felt real.
I cried. I ached. I held my breath.
And when I finished, I just sat there… not ready to leave the world the author had built.
If you’re looking for a story that will touch your heart, break it a little, and still leave you full of love—this is the one.
June 3, 2023
5 heartbroken stars
I have to say that lately I have been on a bender in reading books that have been tearing my poor little heart up. I don't know how much more it can take right now!
Dani goes away for the summer for a break after a heartbreak and feels like she needs to get away and the perfect place is going to her cousin's. She meet's Seth there and instantly find a connection and are pretty inseparable that summer but during this summer there will be some heartbreaking consequences and I don't know how much a person can go through in a year. I am a big crier and I get emotional very easily so you could just imagine what a mess I was when reading this book.
I was drawn to the characters, this book touches my heart in so many ways and I felt like it was very real. I loved it dearly and my emotions were seriously taking a toll with how much it was going through.
Ms. White did an amazing job with this first book in the duet and I can't wait for the next book and see where this journey is going to end.
I have to say that lately I have been on a bender in reading books that have been tearing my poor little heart up. I don't know how much more it can take right now!
Dani goes away for the summer for a break after a heartbreak and feels like she needs to get away and the perfect place is going to her cousin's. She meet's Seth there and instantly find a connection and are pretty inseparable that summer but during this summer there will be some heartbreaking consequences and I don't know how much a person can go through in a year. I am a big crier and I get emotional very easily so you could just imagine what a mess I was when reading this book.
I was drawn to the characters, this book touches my heart in so many ways and I felt like it was very real. I loved it dearly and my emotions were seriously taking a toll with how much it was going through.
Ms. White did an amazing job with this first book in the duet and I can't wait for the next book and see where this journey is going to end.
March 9, 2025
This is not an HEA. So if you’re looking for the happy ending look away now. I went into this book not realizing that and about the half way point, the point of no return because I NEEDED the answers I realized I wasn’t getting my HEA.
This book legit made me cry my eyes out for like the last 5 chapters. So if you need a good cry this one will give it to you.
This book was some really tough subjects, cancer and tragic loss being the biggest. And someone who has lost a family member that way it hit even closer to home. You get it all for the feels in this book. And Dani and Seth had a love bigger than either one of them could have expected, but sometimes love just isn’t enough and there is an after… just sometimes hard to see it.
This is a young love and understand these character are fresh out of high school/start of college. Their lives are just beginning but both of them have gone through soooo much too.
This book legit made me cry my eyes out for like the last 5 chapters. So if you need a good cry this one will give it to you.
This book was some really tough subjects, cancer and tragic loss being the biggest. And someone who has lost a family member that way it hit even closer to home. You get it all for the feels in this book. And Dani and Seth had a love bigger than either one of them could have expected, but sometimes love just isn’t enough and there is an after… just sometimes hard to see it.
This is a young love and understand these character are fresh out of high school/start of college. Their lives are just beginning but both of them have gone through soooo much too.
May 24, 2023
I seriously loved it. So much emotion. I loved the characters. I was hooked right away and once I had a moment I couldn’t put this down! I was so invested in the story. It’s one of those books that I’ll be thinking about for a while.
I love Dani so much. My heart broke for her. She went through so much through her life. I can feel how much pain she felt. She is so strong and has so many people in her life who will get her through everything thrown at her.
I love Seth, he hasn’t had it easy himself. Just when he didn’t think he could feel real love, it happens when he least expects it. Just makes it much more harder!
Need a story that will make you bawl your eyes out? Feel torn into two? A story of love, betrayal, heartbreak and lies?? This story is for you!! Please read and keep some tissue with you!
I love Dani so much. My heart broke for her. She went through so much through her life. I can feel how much pain she felt. She is so strong and has so many people in her life who will get her through everything thrown at her.
I love Seth, he hasn’t had it easy himself. Just when he didn’t think he could feel real love, it happens when he least expects it. Just makes it much more harder!
Need a story that will make you bawl your eyes out? Feel torn into two? A story of love, betrayal, heartbreak and lies?? This story is for you!! Please read and keep some tissue with you!
May 19, 2023
ARC Review
What a amazing, beautiful, heartbreaking story.
I had a feeling from the start that I knew where it was going but it was a whole other thing experiencing it. I laughed, I cried and I just felt every word that was written.
This is an amazing love story and I highly recommend reading Seth and Danielle’s story. Just have your tissue box nearby! 🥹 I really don’t want to say too much and give anything away, but these are some of the tropes within the story.
Cousin’s Best Friend
Hidden Truths
Summer Romance
Emotional Scars
This is the first book in a duet and I can’t wait to see where the story goes. Do yourself a favor and read this book! It’s full of many ups and downs but I think in the end, it will all be worth it.
What a amazing, beautiful, heartbreaking story.
I had a feeling from the start that I knew where it was going but it was a whole other thing experiencing it. I laughed, I cried and I just felt every word that was written.
This is an amazing love story and I highly recommend reading Seth and Danielle’s story. Just have your tissue box nearby! 🥹 I really don’t want to say too much and give anything away, but these are some of the tropes within the story.
Cousin’s Best Friend
Hidden Truths
Summer Romance
Emotional Scars
This is the first book in a duet and I can’t wait to see where the story goes. Do yourself a favor and read this book! It’s full of many ups and downs but I think in the end, it will all be worth it.
May 25, 2023
𝓐𝓡𝓒 𝓡𝓮𝓿𝓲𝓮𝔀
𝑻𝒓𝒐𝒑𝒆𝒔
✔️ Cousin’s Best Friend
✔️ Hidden Truths
✔️ Summer Romance
✔️ Emotional Scars
𝑹𝒆𝒗𝒊𝒆𝒘
My emotions are all over the place after reading this. I’m gonna keep this short as it needs to be read in order to have a better understanding of the storyline. It is quite an emotional read, this book deals with love, loss, grief and forgiveness. I quite liked the storyline as a whole, it is definitely something different from what I’ve read so far. I liked seeing Danielle try to move forward with her life from the beginning of the book and make something of it. Seth was a heartfelt character that is filled with so much understanding and love. For me this book brought tears to my eyes, it was heartbreaking but necessary for the story to play out the way it was written.
𝑻𝒓𝒐𝒑𝒆𝒔
✔️ Cousin’s Best Friend
✔️ Hidden Truths
✔️ Summer Romance
✔️ Emotional Scars
𝑹𝒆𝒗𝒊𝒆𝒘
My emotions are all over the place after reading this. I’m gonna keep this short as it needs to be read in order to have a better understanding of the storyline. It is quite an emotional read, this book deals with love, loss, grief and forgiveness. I quite liked the storyline as a whole, it is definitely something different from what I’ve read so far. I liked seeing Danielle try to move forward with her life from the beginning of the book and make something of it. Seth was a heartfelt character that is filled with so much understanding and love. For me this book brought tears to my eyes, it was heartbreaking but necessary for the story to play out the way it was written.
May 28, 2023
This is the first in a duet, as well as a debut from this author, and my word, she is someone to look out for in the future. Dani though she had her summer planed out, until she walks into her boyfriend in bed with her best friend, which has her heading to her cousin Sloane’s to regroup. Seth is Sloane’s best friend, and from the moment he and Dani meet there is an intense connection between them. This is a well written story which is an emotional roller coaster, with heartbreak, secrets, lies, betrayal, loss, making choices, challenges, romance, and love, which leads to an addictive page turner, and I look forward to reading he second part of this incredible duet.
I look forward to reading more from this talented author whose work I highly recommend.
I look forward to reading more from this talented author whose work I highly recommend.
May 29, 2023
Before Us is a great read, this one is a drop-everything-and-read-now book. Dani is an amazing girl. She's been dealt some things most people don't have to deal with, but she is strong and pushes through. She finds out her boyfriend is cheating on her with her best friend, so she takes the opportunity to spend the summer with her cousin, Sloan. While visiting Sloan, she meets Sloan's friends Seth. Seth and Dani are drawn to each other. They have an instant connection. Seth has a secret that's pretty big that he keeps from Dani. Their story is heart-string, pulling, and emotional. Toward the end of the book, I had some teary eyes. I was so glad to see that this was part of a series because I definitely need more of this story.
September 28, 2023
L.N. White, how could you do this to us?!? How could you write such a beautiful story, that is also sooo heartbreaking 😢?
Wow! I haven’t cried in a long time but was happy to cry about these characters! Before Us is a book about Seth and Danielle falling in love, having an incredibly beautiful relationship that they both cherish. I am happy with how they found each other at the perfect time in their lives. How every obstacle they faced was realistic and well done. The whole premise of Before Us is just magnificent. Thank you L.N. For being so brilliant with your writing.
My only complaint was I needed one last farewell in the end.
Please read Before Us if you are looking for a heartbreakingly beautiful story between two fantastic characters, that will make you cry!
*Trigger Warnings
Wow! I haven’t cried in a long time but was happy to cry about these characters! Before Us is a book about Seth and Danielle falling in love, having an incredibly beautiful relationship that they both cherish. I am happy with how they found each other at the perfect time in their lives. How every obstacle they faced was realistic and well done. The whole premise of Before Us is just magnificent. Thank you L.N. For being so brilliant with your writing.
My only complaint was I needed one last farewell in the end.
Please read Before Us if you are looking for a heartbreakingly beautiful story between two fantastic characters, that will make you cry!
*Trigger Warnings
May 25, 2023
“Before us” is L N White’s debut novel. This story was absolutely incredible.
Dani has not had it easy she has suffered a major loss when she was younger. When Dani gets betrayed in the worst way she decides to spend the summer with her cousin “Sloan”. While she’s there she meets Seth who is about to change her life forever.
“Before us” is a beautiful heartbreaking story about love, loss, betrayal and secrets. I absolutely adored Dani and Seth they were absolutely perfect for each other in every way. I would definitely recommend you have sown tissues handy because this story is not an easy ride, it is highly emotional which left me broken. I cannot wait to see what happens next in this duet.
I urge you all to keep an eye out for this author. L M White is a very talented author who will definitely keep you on your toes. I cannot wait to read more of her work in the future.
HIGHLY RECOMMENDED
FIVE STARS ⭐️ ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Dani has not had it easy she has suffered a major loss when she was younger. When Dani gets betrayed in the worst way she decides to spend the summer with her cousin “Sloan”. While she’s there she meets Seth who is about to change her life forever.
“Before us” is a beautiful heartbreaking story about love, loss, betrayal and secrets. I absolutely adored Dani and Seth they were absolutely perfect for each other in every way. I would definitely recommend you have sown tissues handy because this story is not an easy ride, it is highly emotional which left me broken. I cannot wait to see what happens next in this duet.
I urge you all to keep an eye out for this author. L M White is a very talented author who will definitely keep you on your toes. I cannot wait to read more of her work in the future.
HIGHLY RECOMMENDED
FIVE STARS ⭐️ ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
June 5, 2023
BEFORE US by L.N. White
Oh my this book is an emotional read for sure so be prepared and have some tissue nearby. I don’t want to ruin it for anyone so I’m going to try to not give much away which is going to be hard. All I will say is that the emotions are so palpable and real it’s like you’re going through them yourself. I may have screamed and cries and a little bit of so many emotions while reading this book. This is a story that is one very emotional story of betrayal, heartbreak, and love. It is overflowing with angst, love, emotion, and self discovery. I loved this book and I would highly recommend.
Oh my this book is an emotional read for sure so be prepared and have some tissue nearby. I don’t want to ruin it for anyone so I’m going to try to not give much away which is going to be hard. All I will say is that the emotions are so palpable and real it’s like you’re going through them yourself. I may have screamed and cries and a little bit of so many emotions while reading this book. This is a story that is one very emotional story of betrayal, heartbreak, and love. It is overflowing with angst, love, emotion, and self discovery. I loved this book and I would highly recommend.
June 16, 2023
Before Us, the first book in the Story of Us by L.N. White had me crying by the end. This story starts off with a betrayal that pushes Dani, the FMC, into leaving her hometown for the summer. While away, she meets her cousin's best friend Seth and from there, well, things just get interesting. There's also Logan, Dani's first crush, who is in the story as well. I won't get too much into it, but there is a bit of a love triangle.
Overall, I love Before Us. This book shows just how quickly we are to fall in love and how much each relationship can affect us. There are trigger warnings and I suggest reading them.
Also, don't forget the tissues.
Overall, I love Before Us. This book shows just how quickly we are to fall in love and how much each relationship can affect us. There are trigger warnings and I suggest reading them.
Also, don't forget the tissues.
May 25, 2023
𝐀𝐑𝐂 𝐑𝐞𝐯𝐢𝐞𝐰
Before us
By L.N. White
Rating: ⭐ 5/5
Emotions: ❤️ 5/5 🌶️1/5
There are so many emotions in this story and I can not tell too much without spoiling it. While suffering from a life changing loss, Dani relives a huge betrayal, so she flees to her cousin’s town for the summer.
That is where she meets Seth, who has a terrible health issue. Their friendship and instant connection develops into something more, but Seth decides not to tell her. She is only here for the summer, why scare and burden her with all. Till she finds out.
There is angst, love and self discovery amongst other emotions available.
Soulmates who found each other at the wrong time
A heartbreaking end and the highly expected next part of this story.
Before us
By L.N. White
Rating: ⭐ 5/5
Emotions: ❤️ 5/5 🌶️1/5
There are so many emotions in this story and I can not tell too much without spoiling it. While suffering from a life changing loss, Dani relives a huge betrayal, so she flees to her cousin’s town for the summer.
That is where she meets Seth, who has a terrible health issue. Their friendship and instant connection develops into something more, but Seth decides not to tell her. She is only here for the summer, why scare and burden her with all. Till she finds out.
There is angst, love and self discovery amongst other emotions available.
Soulmates who found each other at the wrong time
A heartbreaking end and the highly expected next part of this story.
May 25, 2023
After finding her boyfriend and best friend together, Dani goes to spend the summer with her cousin, Sloan. When Sloan’s best friend, Seth, shows up at their door in the middle of the night, and Dani answers, there is an immediate attraction. But Dani is only there to focus on chasing her dream: becoming a professional ballerina. And how will Seth explain his secret?
This was an emotional rollercoaster with a lot of highs. While reading this book, I had to wipe some tears away. The author really broke my heart with that ending, and I can’t wait to read the next part of this duet.
This was an emotional rollercoaster with a lot of highs. While reading this book, I had to wipe some tears away. The author really broke my heart with that ending, and I can’t wait to read the next part of this duet.
May 16, 2023
📚 Before Us by L.N. White
5⭐️
This book gave me everything for a summer romance. However it is not for the faint of heart. It will rip your heart out so prepare to cry.
Seth and Dani were everything that embodies a young summer romance. It gives you The Notebook vibes with a dash of A Thousand Boy Kisses.
I have nothing but high hopes for this indie author with her debut novel and this is a great start.
5⭐️
This book gave me everything for a summer romance. However it is not for the faint of heart. It will rip your heart out so prepare to cry.
Seth and Dani were everything that embodies a young summer romance. It gives you The Notebook vibes with a dash of A Thousand Boy Kisses.
I have nothing but high hopes for this indie author with her debut novel and this is a great start.
May 22, 2023
This was a such a cute story, a bit sad but definitely worth the read.
It's all about love and loss and you'll always cherish the love you had once it's gone. I'm glad that the main character found such a great love as a young adult and whether it lasts long or doesn't, she'll always have the memories.
Seth deserved so much more, I really enjoyed his character.
I can say for sure that I'd love to read a short story that comes after this.
It's all about love and loss and you'll always cherish the love you had once it's gone. I'm glad that the main character found such a great love as a young adult and whether it lasts long or doesn't, she'll always have the memories.
Seth deserved so much more, I really enjoyed his character.
I can say for sure that I'd love to read a short story that comes after this.
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