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The Painted Daisies #1
Sweet Memory
My sister called Jonas trouble. To the world, he was just a rookie producer with a dark past. To me, he was the only one who saw the real Paisley—the woman behind the rock star shine. Recording our next album in his studio means a chance to finally claim each other.
But passion has a price—a stalker’s warning painted in blood, a sister stolen too soon, and a love I’m forced to sever.
Two years later, I’m back in the studio, determined to finish the album my sister never got to complete… and to find the one who destroyed her.
I swore Jonas would never be part of my life again.
But when danger resurfaces, he’s the shield I can’t turn away. Now, the man who shattered my heart might be the only one who can save it.
Can we resurrect a love buried by grief—or will revenge crush us both?
Behind the spotlight, the greatest battles are for love.
Start The Painted Daisies today and discover fiery rock stars and the men who’d burn the world for them as they claim the justice and love they deserve.
But passion has a price—a stalker’s warning painted in blood, a sister stolen too soon, and a love I’m forced to sever.
Two years later, I’m back in the studio, determined to finish the album my sister never got to complete… and to find the one who destroyed her.
I swore Jonas would never be part of my life again.
But when danger resurfaces, he’s the shield I can’t turn away. Now, the man who shattered my heart might be the only one who can save it.
Can we resurrect a love buried by grief—or will revenge crush us both?
Behind the spotlight, the greatest battles are for love.
Start The Painted Daisies today and discover fiery rock stars and the men who’d burn the world for them as they claim the justice and love they deserve.
410 pages, Kindle Edition
First published March 15, 2023
558 people are currently reading
1202 people want to read
About the author
L.J. Evans
32 books1,321 followersAward-winning author LJ Evans lives in Northern California with her husband, child, and the three terrors called cats. She's written compulsively since she was a little girl, often getting derailed from what she should be doing by a song lyric that sends her scrambling to jot a scene down.
A former first-grade teacher, she now spends her days deep in the pages of romance and mystery with a bit of the otherworldly thrown in. Her favorite characters are those who live resiliently—stubbornly and triumphantly getting through this wild ride called life with hope, love, and found families guiding the way.
Her novels have won multiple industry awards, including CHARMING AND THE CHERRY BLOSSOM which was Writer’s Digest’s Self-Published E-book Romance of the Year.
Find out more about LJ and her books at www.ljevansbooks.com
A former first-grade teacher, she now spends her days deep in the pages of romance and mystery with a bit of the otherworldly thrown in. Her favorite characters are those who live resiliently—stubbornly and triumphantly getting through this wild ride called life with hope, love, and found families guiding the way.
Her novels have won multiple industry awards, including CHARMING AND THE CHERRY BLOSSOM which was Writer’s Digest’s Self-Published E-book Romance of the Year.
Find out more about LJ and her books at www.ljevansbooks.com
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June 16, 2023
Sweet Memory is book one in the brand new series by L.J. Evans, The Painted Daisies. This series will revolve around an all girl rock band, known and loved all over the world. Each book will be about a different couple but there will be an unsolved mystery that continues throughout. This first book will focus on the youngest member and the heart of the group, Paisley. I can’t wait for you to meet her.
When Paisley Kim and Jonas Riccoli first met, they were just sixteen years old. The Painted Daisies were in Grand Orchard recording an album in Brady O’Neal’s studio, La Musica de Ensuenos. They began a long distance friendship with texts and phone calls until two years later when it was time for the Daisies to return to record another album. Both Paisley and Jonas are so excited to see each other and see if their friendship can be more.
Paisley suffers from severe anxiety. Her older sister, Landry, has always helped her and protected her, maybe even too much. Paisley is the most talented of the group. She writes most of the songs but being the youngest of the group and also the smallest, she has always been their “Little Bit!” For the first time, when she is with Jonas, he doesn’t see her as a child with problems. He sees her as a strong, talented woman. He makes her feel like she can do anything.
Jonas has a past and has done things he isn’t proud of. He struggles with his temper, with anger, but he is a work in progress. He wants to be better. Jonas wants to be a music producer and has been working with Brady. As soon as Paisley returns to Grand Orchard, she’s all he can think about. She sees him as the man he wants to be. But her sister, Landry is not happy with the two of them being together and voices her opinion loudly and often. Then everything comes to a screeching halt when Landry is murdered.
Paisley has been working on herself, getting stronger. She needs to bring the Daisies back together to finish their album. She also wants to catch whoever took her sister from her. So what better way than to return to Grand Orchard once again to draw out the killer. As soon as Paisley and Jonas are together again, they can’t stop the feelings that are still there between them. And when Jonas learns of Paisley’s plan, he won’t leave her side until the killer is caught. He’s determined he will not lose her again because the only future he wants is one with Paisley in it.
This is a sweet, suspenseful and sometimes sad story of two people whose souls were drawn together from the start but who had to overcome so much to be together. I was so proud watching these two grow into the adults they became, finally figuring out who they were supposed to be. This is a story of love, of loss, and of triumph as Paisley and Jonas fight to be together. I can’t wait for the next book, Green Jewel. I wonder which Daisy will be next to find love.
For more about this book and so many others, come and visit me at Carol's Crazy Bookish World.
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March 13, 2023
"I don’t want to wait, thinking there will be a tomorrow. Because what if there isn’t?"
This was a wonderful start to the new Painted Daisies series by LJ Evans. We'd already met the characters in the last book of her Anchor series, Tripped By Love. I didn’t know how much I would love Jonas, though.
LJ's writing is the kind that makes its way into your soul and squeezes your heart. This was no exception.
"Eyes she could easily lose herself in. Eyes that had always spoken to her, giving her all his secrets while reading hers at the same time."
Jonas and Paisley first meet when her band is in town to record an album, and they hit it off then and there. When she leaves with the band, they continue talking over text messages, and it's perfect. You fall in love with both of them and the love blooming between them.
“It was perfect. You’re perfect.”
“We’re perfect,”
When The Daisies are due back in town, they know they'll meet face to face again. There's a lot of anticipation, and you feel those butterflies in your stomach too, just like them, and it's wonderful. You know that crazy, all-encompassing young love?
It's them, only they're more.
“Shh. I’m listening to your heartbeat. I’m finding your rhythm so I can match it.”
Unsurprisingly, they're amazing together. Paisley brings him calm, Jonas gives her strength. And suddenly, two incomplete people are joined, and they make a perfect whole.
However, her sister is not making it easy for them and keeps making Paisley feel bad about Jonas. So much so that I hated her.
"I never feel like I’m truly home until you’re touching me."
When the band, and especially Paisley and Jonas, are targeted by a stalker, it tests their budding relationship. At the same time, so does Landry.
And when Landry dies, everything falls apart.
"I just wanted you to know that, somewhere in the world, there’s someone wishing you a moment of peace. A moment where the heavy burden is lifted off your shoulders."
I found it hard to feel Landry's death because of how I felt about her, so maybe I didn't fully grasp what Paisley felt when she lost her sister.
That also meant I didn't fully grasp Paisley's reasoning either, and there was even a time when I thought Jonas deserved better.
"Make me forget everything else but you and me. Prove to me that what we have, what we feel, is worth all of this.”
LJ has a way into my heart, though, because while I was thinking that, my romantic self was also rooting for them. For the love they had for each other, for the people they were together. For who they could be. For their souls to find their way to each other.
I saw the resolution of the suspense part of the book coming, so it didn’t surprise me. I did like it, as always, that the book was about Jonas and Paisley, even though there were other things going on.
I loved the band, and I can't wait for Fiadh's story. She was the one I resonated with the most, and I really want to see her happily ever after!
“You are all the best parts of me. You are the music I will forever want to play. The notes that are embedded in my soul."
The ending brought tears to my eyes. We all should be so lucky to find our own sweet memories in our lives and to share them with the person who means the most to us.
Regardless of the darkness around them, Jonas and Paisley found their own light.
Please note: this is a slow burn. There are few intimate scenes, and they start at around 75% of the book. We are mostly told about them, not shown.
This was a wonderful start to the new Painted Daisies series by LJ Evans. We'd already met the characters in the last book of her Anchor series, Tripped By Love. I didn’t know how much I would love Jonas, though.
LJ's writing is the kind that makes its way into your soul and squeezes your heart. This was no exception.
"Eyes she could easily lose herself in. Eyes that had always spoken to her, giving her all his secrets while reading hers at the same time."
Jonas and Paisley first meet when her band is in town to record an album, and they hit it off then and there. When she leaves with the band, they continue talking over text messages, and it's perfect. You fall in love with both of them and the love blooming between them.
“It was perfect. You’re perfect.”
“We’re perfect,”
When The Daisies are due back in town, they know they'll meet face to face again. There's a lot of anticipation, and you feel those butterflies in your stomach too, just like them, and it's wonderful. You know that crazy, all-encompassing young love?
It's them, only they're more.
“Shh. I’m listening to your heartbeat. I’m finding your rhythm so I can match it.”
Unsurprisingly, they're amazing together. Paisley brings him calm, Jonas gives her strength. And suddenly, two incomplete people are joined, and they make a perfect whole.
However, her sister is not making it easy for them and keeps making Paisley feel bad about Jonas. So much so that I hated her.
"I never feel like I’m truly home until you’re touching me."
When the band, and especially Paisley and Jonas, are targeted by a stalker, it tests their budding relationship. At the same time, so does Landry.
And when Landry dies, everything falls apart.
"I just wanted you to know that, somewhere in the world, there’s someone wishing you a moment of peace. A moment where the heavy burden is lifted off your shoulders."
I found it hard to feel Landry's death because of how I felt about her, so maybe I didn't fully grasp what Paisley felt when she lost her sister.
That also meant I didn't fully grasp Paisley's reasoning either, and there was even a time when I thought Jonas deserved better.
"Make me forget everything else but you and me. Prove to me that what we have, what we feel, is worth all of this.”
LJ has a way into my heart, though, because while I was thinking that, my romantic self was also rooting for them. For the love they had for each other, for the people they were together. For who they could be. For their souls to find their way to each other.
I saw the resolution of the suspense part of the book coming, so it didn’t surprise me. I did like it, as always, that the book was about Jonas and Paisley, even though there were other things going on.
I loved the band, and I can't wait for Fiadh's story. She was the one I resonated with the most, and I really want to see her happily ever after!
“You are all the best parts of me. You are the music I will forever want to play. The notes that are embedded in my soul."
The ending brought tears to my eyes. We all should be so lucky to find our own sweet memories in our lives and to share them with the person who means the most to us.
Regardless of the darkness around them, Jonas and Paisley found their own light.
Please note: this is a slow burn. There are few intimate scenes, and they start at around 75% of the book. We are mostly told about them, not shown.
July 12, 2023
Amazing. If I could give this book 10 stars I would. This was such a beautiful, sad, heart-wrenching story. It's a love story with a murder mystery and kick ass musicians. When Paisleys sister is murdered, you feel every single emotion she does. Her grief is real and raw... so devastating. Jonas is her light. He has a troubled past, too. Don't wanna spoil, but READ THIS BOOK!!!
STORY ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️!
SPICE 🌶🌶
STORY ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️!
SPICE 🌶🌶
March 27, 2023
Sweet Memory is the beginning of a new five-book series -- The Painted Daisies -- by L.J. Evans. I don’t know how I’ve missed discovering this author long before now.
I was immediately caught up in Jonas and Paisley’s friends-to-lovers story told from dual perspectives. But it didn’t stop there -- there’s so much more with the addition of a violent tragedy and ongoing suspense. Each installment in this series will share common primary characters that form The Painted Daisies, an all-female band and an overarching unsolved whodunit.
A book best read without spoilers, but difficult to discuss the story without slip-ups. So, I’ll remain vague to avoid ruining the experience. Read the blurb if you must.
The character development overall is strong and the pacing exacting. An achingly authentic and raw portrait of love, regret, and the life-altering impact of relationships we hold closest to us.
I’m thankful for the discovery of a wonderful new author. I’m completely hooked and excited for more of the Painted Daisies. In the meantime, I’m going to check-out Evans’s backlist of books.
March 15, 2023
Holy moly what a fantastic book this was! Great characters to fall in love with, mysteries to solve and the best part is that every month a new book in the series is released so I don’t have to wait too long for more clues to solve the mystery woven throughout. I loved Paisley and Jonas’s story. Everything about them feel real….how their relationship grew, how they grew and changed as they got older, their feelings, their insecurities…..such a fantastic story leading these 2 to their HEA! This series is on my most anticipated reads of this year!
March 14, 2023
In true L.J. Evans fashion, she delivered another gut-wrenching story for us to enjoy. But I must be honest and say, this is probably the first time I didn't love 100% our heroine.
Jonas is trying to outrun his past. His love for Paisley was so strong that he was willing to break his heart for her to be well and alive. And here's where it gets tricky for me.
Paisley has her share of problems and the guilt she feels after her sister is killed, it was overwhelming for her, and I did feel a bit of sympathy for her. But when she still shut him out, even when she knew what she was doing to him, I felt resentment towards her. I get she was young and all, but she was breaking my heart as well as Jonas's.
But as the story progress and we get to see her becoming all the things her sisters hoped she would become, I guess I did start to like her, but just a fraction, compared to the love I have for Jonas. What I did love about her was, when she realized that she'd been wrong, she was determined to make it up to him, so there's that.
Since I started reading L.J. Evans, I’m always prepared for all the emotions her books bring me, but one was different. It had me guessing what was happening from start to finish and honestly, I loved it. And with the epilog at the end, the next Daisy to get her HEA, I’m sure this series will turn out to be one of the best by this author.
***Review copy requested and reviewed on behalf of OMGReads Blog***
Jonas is trying to outrun his past. His love for Paisley was so strong that he was willing to break his heart for her to be well and alive. And here's where it gets tricky for me.
Paisley has her share of problems and the guilt she feels after her sister is killed, it was overwhelming for her, and I did feel a bit of sympathy for her. But when she still shut him out, even when she knew what she was doing to him, I felt resentment towards her. I get she was young and all, but she was breaking my heart as well as Jonas's.
But as the story progress and we get to see her becoming all the things her sisters hoped she would become, I guess I did start to like her, but just a fraction, compared to the love I have for Jonas. What I did love about her was, when she realized that she'd been wrong, she was determined to make it up to him, so there's that.
Since I started reading L.J. Evans, I’m always prepared for all the emotions her books bring me, but one was different. It had me guessing what was happening from start to finish and honestly, I loved it. And with the epilog at the end, the next Daisy to get her HEA, I’m sure this series will turn out to be one of the best by this author.
***Review copy requested and reviewed on behalf of OMGReads Blog***
March 10, 2023
My heart!!! Sweet Memory is a highly emotional, breathtakingly beautiful, soul deep love story. Be prepared to be all consumed with Jonas and Paisley’s book while reading!
First, I just have to say that I am not a crier and this book had me in literal tears! I couldn't stop reading! Jonas is an amazing man trying to be better than his past. He has the biggest heart and will do anything for the ones he loves. Paisley is a soft spoken and shy woman. She has more strength and courage than she knows. I love the texts between these two and watching their love bloom. My heart broke when Landry, Paisley’s sister, is murdered and everyone's world is turned upside down. In true LJ Evans form though, she mended my heart with how everything came back together. She shows how strong the Daisies are and how true love will always find a way.
Jonas and Paisley complete one another on a soul deep level. I loved how they come together despite the many obstacles. Their story is full of grief and guilt, passion and love, strength and suspense. I can't wait for more!
I received an ARC for an honest review.
First, I just have to say that I am not a crier and this book had me in literal tears! I couldn't stop reading! Jonas is an amazing man trying to be better than his past. He has the biggest heart and will do anything for the ones he loves. Paisley is a soft spoken and shy woman. She has more strength and courage than she knows. I love the texts between these two and watching their love bloom. My heart broke when Landry, Paisley’s sister, is murdered and everyone's world is turned upside down. In true LJ Evans form though, she mended my heart with how everything came back together. She shows how strong the Daisies are and how true love will always find a way.
Jonas and Paisley complete one another on a soul deep level. I loved how they come together despite the many obstacles. Their story is full of grief and guilt, passion and love, strength and suspense. I can't wait for more!
I received an ARC for an honest review.
March 13, 2023
Young Love, True Love
Sweet Memory is a deeply emotional and angsty romance. These characters are young and have so many obstacles in their way. Paisley and Jonas are both struggling. Paisley has anxiety and confidence issues. Jonas has abandonment and anger management issues. However, when they are together, they bring comfort and joy into each other's lives. Then tragedy strikes and their world implodes. These two have to battle their own demons, as well as external forces, in order to find their way back to one another. The twists and turns force Paisley and Jonas into close proximity. Intimacy and trust grow, causing love and strength to blossom.
As a first book in a series, the author does a great job of introducing characters and giving glimpses of their individual backstories. The whodunit mystery also propels the story plot and series forward. I can’t wait to learn more about the Painted Daisies.
Sweet Memory is a deeply emotional and angsty romance. These characters are young and have so many obstacles in their way. Paisley and Jonas are both struggling. Paisley has anxiety and confidence issues. Jonas has abandonment and anger management issues. However, when they are together, they bring comfort and joy into each other's lives. Then tragedy strikes and their world implodes. These two have to battle their own demons, as well as external forces, in order to find their way back to one another. The twists and turns force Paisley and Jonas into close proximity. Intimacy and trust grow, causing love and strength to blossom.
As a first book in a series, the author does a great job of introducing characters and giving glimpses of their individual backstories. The whodunit mystery also propels the story plot and series forward. I can’t wait to learn more about the Painted Daisies.
March 7, 2023
What. The. Freaking. Heck?!! This is NOT supposed to happen in a romance novel. And right near the beginning of the story?? A twist so drastic it's destined to overshadow everything throughout the rest of the series? Again, what the?! You've certainly turned romance on it's head with this surprise, Laura. And *that's* how you grab a reader's attention!
Painted Daisies is a wildly popular girl band, and they're in Grand Orchard to record their next album at Brady O'Neil's studio. Landry Kim may be the organizer and driving force of the band, but her younger sister, Paisley, is band's heart, soul and music. And after being on the road with only texts and phone calls, Paisley is finally going to be face to face with the boy who's helped her write songs and stolen her heart.
Jonas and Paisley are both excited and nervous to spend time together in person, and there's something so sweet and pure about their fledgling romance. But before they can settle in to being a couple, tragedy strikes and drives them apart. It drives the band apart. The world as they know it will never be the same, and a relationship with Jonas is the last thing on Paisley's mind.
Part first love, part coming of age, and part second chances, this one held my heart in its hands as I sped through the pages devouring every word. The heartbreak, devastation and grief destroyed me, and the patience, compassion and transformative growth knit me back together. Masterfully written, this gifted storyteller handles difficult subjects with care and grace, making this a touching, mesmerizing, addictive read that is not to be missed.
Painted Daisies is a wildly popular girl band, and they're in Grand Orchard to record their next album at Brady O'Neil's studio. Landry Kim may be the organizer and driving force of the band, but her younger sister, Paisley, is band's heart, soul and music. And after being on the road with only texts and phone calls, Paisley is finally going to be face to face with the boy who's helped her write songs and stolen her heart.
Jonas and Paisley are both excited and nervous to spend time together in person, and there's something so sweet and pure about their fledgling romance. But before they can settle in to being a couple, tragedy strikes and drives them apart. It drives the band apart. The world as they know it will never be the same, and a relationship with Jonas is the last thing on Paisley's mind.
Part first love, part coming of age, and part second chances, this one held my heart in its hands as I sped through the pages devouring every word. The heartbreak, devastation and grief destroyed me, and the patience, compassion and transformative growth knit me back together. Masterfully written, this gifted storyteller handles difficult subjects with care and grace, making this a touching, mesmerizing, addictive read that is not to be missed.
March 14, 2023
I have no idea how to write a review that gives this story—and what is going to be an epic series—justice. Jonas and Paisley's story is painfully beautiful from beginning to end. I was hooked from the prologue and felt their incredible connection even through their adorably smitten text messages, and when tragedy strikes just as they find each other, I was just as torn apart as they were to let their love go.
Beautifully written with the most gorgeous romance and heart-in-your-throat suspense, I cannot wait for the rest of this series to unfold.
Beautifully written with the most gorgeous romance and heart-in-your-throat suspense, I cannot wait for the rest of this series to unfold.
March 15, 2023
I am in love with words by L.J.Evans. If you need just one reason to pick up Sweet Memory, that should be how deeply moving the writing is. I love the incredible depth of the characters. Honest and raw emotions are bleeding in every page. It is a mindblowing blend of heartbreak of young love, an epic love story spreading across years, the adrenaline rush of a rockstar romance and heart stopping romantic suspense.
Paisley Kim, the youngest member of the all girls band sensation Painted Daisies was thrilled to go back to Grand Orchard to record their next album..so that she can meet her best friend Jonas after two years. They bonder over music and then some more. He contributed a lot in their award winning album.But they start having threatening notes and her sister and the leader of the band Landry thinks it is associated with Jonas' past. In middle of Paisley and Jonas falling deeper in love, Landry is murdered. Paisley retracts into the shell of her grief and Jonas can no longer reach her. But two more years later, she is back to Grand Orchard. She needs closure and their hearts are in agony.Will the enemy strike again? Will they beat that person?
A big applause for the diversity in the band. Paisley and Jonas both went through a complex evolution. Paisley struggled with her anxiety and she preferred the shadow. Landry protected her but Jonas encouraged her to be braver. Jonas opened up her heart, her creativity and her soul. But her sister's death shattered her. She tried numbness. She tried grief. But she slowly made herself stronger to face the enemy. She is still the sweet and soft and shy creative genius but there is a fierceness in her that makes her even more remarkable. Jonas comes from a less than fortunate background. Sometimes, he had issues with managing his anger specially when someone is trying to hurt Paisley. He always had this self doubt that he is no good for her. But he is perfect for her.He is extremely protective and caring and he will go to the end of the earth for her. He built his life back, worked on music scene, earned the education and above all, he always wanted the best for Paisley. Sure, he was angry and devastated when Paisley shut him out. But when they meet again..it's like a story written in stars. Their love so beautiful that I wanted to cry from the sheer power of it. They suffered a lot. But they were soulmates. The author brought their pain and their joy to life with her powerful writing. You can feel every emotion right in your heart. It was so absurdly angsty while the suspense and the chase kept me on the edge. They express a lot of emotions through music. The girls of Painted Daisies are a colorful lot. But they are more like family. Their love, loyalty and bonding is an unforgettable part of the story. I cannot wait to read the next in the series.
I reviewed an early copy voluntarily
Paisley Kim, the youngest member of the all girls band sensation Painted Daisies was thrilled to go back to Grand Orchard to record their next album..so that she can meet her best friend Jonas after two years. They bonder over music and then some more. He contributed a lot in their award winning album.But they start having threatening notes and her sister and the leader of the band Landry thinks it is associated with Jonas' past. In middle of Paisley and Jonas falling deeper in love, Landry is murdered. Paisley retracts into the shell of her grief and Jonas can no longer reach her. But two more years later, she is back to Grand Orchard. She needs closure and their hearts are in agony.Will the enemy strike again? Will they beat that person?
A big applause for the diversity in the band. Paisley and Jonas both went through a complex evolution. Paisley struggled with her anxiety and she preferred the shadow. Landry protected her but Jonas encouraged her to be braver. Jonas opened up her heart, her creativity and her soul. But her sister's death shattered her. She tried numbness. She tried grief. But she slowly made herself stronger to face the enemy. She is still the sweet and soft and shy creative genius but there is a fierceness in her that makes her even more remarkable. Jonas comes from a less than fortunate background. Sometimes, he had issues with managing his anger specially when someone is trying to hurt Paisley. He always had this self doubt that he is no good for her. But he is perfect for her.He is extremely protective and caring and he will go to the end of the earth for her. He built his life back, worked on music scene, earned the education and above all, he always wanted the best for Paisley. Sure, he was angry and devastated when Paisley shut him out. But when they meet again..it's like a story written in stars. Their love so beautiful that I wanted to cry from the sheer power of it. They suffered a lot. But they were soulmates. The author brought their pain and their joy to life with her powerful writing. You can feel every emotion right in your heart. It was so absurdly angsty while the suspense and the chase kept me on the edge. They express a lot of emotions through music. The girls of Painted Daisies are a colorful lot. But they are more like family. Their love, loyalty and bonding is an unforgettable part of the story. I cannot wait to read the next in the series.
I reviewed an early copy voluntarily
March 3, 2023
LJ Evans gives us the long awaited “Sweet Memory”, the first of The Painted Daisies series. We were first introduced to Jonah and Paisley in Tripped by Love and LJ Evans has not disappointed this reader. A story set over a few years, we see the romance between Jonah and Paisley change from a teenage crush into a deep abiding love. All this, at the same time as Jonah facing his demons of his past and Paisley living through the hardest time of her life. The words are uplifting and full of intrigue, leaving me with bated breath for the next in the series. Well done LJ- I truly feel this is your best novel yet!
March 16, 2023
This suspenseful romance is the first book in a new series. Paisley is the sweet and beloved member of the Painted Daisies. She connected with Jonas after working closely on her band's album two years ago. The two friends have spent the last two years texting and talking from long distance. They can’t wait to see each other again and finally move forward with their relationship, but someone doesn’t want them to be together, including Paisley’s sister Landry. When Landry is murdered everything changes. Paisley disappears. When she comes back, she’s changed. When Jonas finds out she's planning to offer herself as bait to bring out the killer, he knows he can't stop her and refuses to let her do it alone.
This is a great start to a wonderful new series and introduces the Painted Daisies. There are several crossover characters connected to Jonas and the music studio. A few times that I needed I had a little more backstory. Some things I figured out, but there were still some gaps.
With a plot that builds up to something big and a time hop you see quite a lot of growth with Paisley. I loved the intrigue and touch of mystery. I was invested in Jonas and Paisley’s story from the prologue. Paisley suffers from anxiety and Jonas has a past, there were authentic feelings and doubts.
A touch of first love and a second chance, Paisley and Jonas have a relationship from the beginning, but the ups and downs and the push/pull felt like a slow burn. The strength and passion of Paisley and Jonas’ deep love is beautiful. Their story has heartbreak, grief, and some twists.
I can’t wait to see what’s in store for this all-female rock band. Ech book in the series will feature a different member of Painted Daisies with the overarching mystery of Landry’s murder. Paisley and Jonas get a HEA, but the book ends on a cliffhanger.
This is a great start to a wonderful new series and introduces the Painted Daisies. There are several crossover characters connected to Jonas and the music studio. A few times that I needed I had a little more backstory. Some things I figured out, but there were still some gaps.
With a plot that builds up to something big and a time hop you see quite a lot of growth with Paisley. I loved the intrigue and touch of mystery. I was invested in Jonas and Paisley’s story from the prologue. Paisley suffers from anxiety and Jonas has a past, there were authentic feelings and doubts.
A touch of first love and a second chance, Paisley and Jonas have a relationship from the beginning, but the ups and downs and the push/pull felt like a slow burn. The strength and passion of Paisley and Jonas’ deep love is beautiful. Their story has heartbreak, grief, and some twists.
I can’t wait to see what’s in store for this all-female rock band. Ech book in the series will feature a different member of Painted Daisies with the overarching mystery of Landry’s murder. Paisley and Jonas get a HEA, but the book ends on a cliffhanger.
March 15, 2023
"𝑰'𝒎 𝒋𝒖𝒔𝒕 𝒚𝒐𝒖𝒓 𝒂𝒗𝒆𝒓𝒂𝒈𝒆 𝑱𝒐𝒆, 𝑷𝒂𝒊𝒔𝒍𝒆𝒚. 𝒀𝒐𝒖...𝒚𝒐𝒖'𝒓𝒆 𝒑𝒖𝒓𝒆 𝒎𝒂𝒈𝒊𝒄. 𝑳𝒊𝒌𝒆 𝒕𝒉𝒆 𝒔𝒉𝒊𝒎𝒎𝒆𝒓 𝒐𝒇 𝒄𝒐𝒍𝒐𝒓𝒔 𝒂𝒍𝒐𝒏𝒈 𝒕𝒉𝒆 𝒘𝒂𝒕𝒆𝒓 𝒂𝒕 𝒔𝒖𝒏𝒔𝒆𝒕. 𝑳𝒊𝒌𝒆...𝒉𝒐𝒍𝒅𝒊𝒏𝒈 𝒂 𝒓𝒂𝒊𝒏𝒃𝒐𝒘 𝒊𝒏 𝒚𝒐𝒖𝒓 𝒉𝒂𝒏𝒅."
𝐒𝐰𝐞𝐞𝐭 𝐌𝐞𝐦𝐨𝐫𝐲 by LJ Evans | The Painted Daises Book 1
3.5 Maple Leafs | 2 Flames
Jonas and Paisley have been pining over each other for two years and are finally back together in the same town and are determined to see if they can make something of their attraction until their world is turned upside down. Two years later, Paisley is back in Golden Orchard and this time Jonas is not letting her go.
I was looking forward to a new book by LJ Evans and The Painted Daises series for a while and unfortunately, I struggled with this one. I felt that Landry, Paisley's sister, and the suspense part of the story overshadowed everything else. I felt bad for Jonas as everything always seemed to be blamed on him.
I do think that this is a great premise for a series where each band member gets their happily ever after all while the murder mystery spans the entire series.
I am hoping that I have better luck with the next books in the series as I love books by LJ Evans.
Get ready for... small town, musician (rockstar), second chance, virgin, romantic suspense, hurt/comfort
POV... dual first-person
Content... murder, death of a family member, anxiety
*A copy was kindly provided to Canadian Girl Book Blog*
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𝐒𝐰𝐞𝐞𝐭 𝐌𝐞𝐦𝐨𝐫𝐲 by LJ Evans | The Painted Daises Book 1
3.5 Maple Leafs | 2 Flames
Jonas and Paisley have been pining over each other for two years and are finally back together in the same town and are determined to see if they can make something of their attraction until their world is turned upside down. Two years later, Paisley is back in Golden Orchard and this time Jonas is not letting her go.
I was looking forward to a new book by LJ Evans and The Painted Daises series for a while and unfortunately, I struggled with this one. I felt that Landry, Paisley's sister, and the suspense part of the story overshadowed everything else. I felt bad for Jonas as everything always seemed to be blamed on him.
I do think that this is a great premise for a series where each band member gets their happily ever after all while the murder mystery spans the entire series.
I am hoping that I have better luck with the next books in the series as I love books by LJ Evans.
Get ready for... small town, musician (rockstar), second chance, virgin, romantic suspense, hurt/comfort
POV... dual first-person
Content... murder, death of a family member, anxiety
*A copy was kindly provided to Canadian Girl Book Blog*
Follow → ❤️ Facebook 🖤 Instagram ❤️ TikTok 🖤 Twitter ❤️ Blog
March 15, 2023
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️.5
I could not put Sweet Memory down. This book had me reading into the wee morning hours. What began as the sweetest love story between two of the most loveable main characters I have ever encountered quickly morphed into an intense drama of suspense and tragedy. I spent half of my time rooting for Jonas and Paisely to fight for their chance at love and the other half trying to figure out who was behind the tragic and horrific actions which had all of the characters on edge in a state of hyper-surveillance.
Sweet Memory is the cornerstone book in a series of five. The stars of this series are the members of a girl band - The Painted Daises. As the foundation piece, this book has quite a bit happening. LJ Evans does a superb job of leaving me with a happy ending and solving one set of mysterious circumstances while whetting my appetite to figure out who is behind other tragic events in the book.
I love the melody LJ Evans wove with her words for Jonas and Paisely. She captivated me in the opening measures with their innocence and budding friendship. Their song grew to be a powerful transformative force, only to be interrupted by grievous acts that forever change their lives. I absolutely adore the way their love for each other is a muted refrain until the ending measures where it crescendos in an unforgettable and clear outro that left me breatheless and smiling with its strength.
I truly enjoyed getting to know each member of the Painted Daisy family. I love their diversity and loyalty to each other. It will be a pleasant adventure to see where each of these characters finds themselves in the next four books. I also can't wait to know if my theory regarding the culprit of the ongoing mystery will hold strong.
I could not put Sweet Memory down. This book had me reading into the wee morning hours. What began as the sweetest love story between two of the most loveable main characters I have ever encountered quickly morphed into an intense drama of suspense and tragedy. I spent half of my time rooting for Jonas and Paisely to fight for their chance at love and the other half trying to figure out who was behind the tragic and horrific actions which had all of the characters on edge in a state of hyper-surveillance.
Sweet Memory is the cornerstone book in a series of five. The stars of this series are the members of a girl band - The Painted Daises. As the foundation piece, this book has quite a bit happening. LJ Evans does a superb job of leaving me with a happy ending and solving one set of mysterious circumstances while whetting my appetite to figure out who is behind other tragic events in the book.
I love the melody LJ Evans wove with her words for Jonas and Paisely. She captivated me in the opening measures with their innocence and budding friendship. Their song grew to be a powerful transformative force, only to be interrupted by grievous acts that forever change their lives. I absolutely adore the way their love for each other is a muted refrain until the ending measures where it crescendos in an unforgettable and clear outro that left me breatheless and smiling with its strength.
I truly enjoyed getting to know each member of the Painted Daisy family. I love their diversity and loyalty to each other. It will be a pleasant adventure to see where each of these characters finds themselves in the next four books. I also can't wait to know if my theory regarding the culprit of the ongoing mystery will hold strong.
March 29, 2023
This is book 1 in the Painted Daisies series and it’s off to a great start.
Rock band romances are a hard sell for me, but this author is one who is quickly becoming an automatic 1-click author because of her unique style of blending romance, angst with unexpected heart wrenching twists.
So I went into this read blindly and overall it was a pleasant surprise!
This is a female rock band focusing on young Paisley and her heartthrob interest Jonas. They’re young, they met 2 years prior and upon seeing each other again, things they never expected happen.
In the midst of their very slow burn, coming of age budding romance, something terrible happens that gave the story a certain edge to make it more interesting.
The build up and how this story evolved was captivating but also too slow paced for me. I have to say there were a few times where I felt lost in some scenes because I felt I was missing something about the characters history with each other. It felt like I should have known something about the characters history from a prior story. It didn’t take away my enjoyment but it did feel like I missed something.
Nonetheless, I enjoyed this story and there was a murder mystery that kept me curious about whodunnit. The ending was unexpected and left more questions unanswered.
Rock band romances are a hard sell for me, but this author is one who is quickly becoming an automatic 1-click author because of her unique style of blending romance, angst with unexpected heart wrenching twists.
So I went into this read blindly and overall it was a pleasant surprise!
This is a female rock band focusing on young Paisley and her heartthrob interest Jonas. They’re young, they met 2 years prior and upon seeing each other again, things they never expected happen.
In the midst of their very slow burn, coming of age budding romance, something terrible happens that gave the story a certain edge to make it more interesting.
The build up and how this story evolved was captivating but also too slow paced for me. I have to say there were a few times where I felt lost in some scenes because I felt I was missing something about the characters history with each other. It felt like I should have known something about the characters history from a prior story. It didn’t take away my enjoyment but it did feel like I missed something.
Nonetheless, I enjoyed this story and there was a murder mystery that kept me curious about whodunnit. The ending was unexpected and left more questions unanswered.
March 23, 2023
Jonas and Paisley
Wow!! Talk about a book that had me at the edge of my seat this book definitely took me there. It is packed full of suspense and surprises. Painted Daisies is an all-girl rock band with Paisley being the shyest but also the one who has a big part in the band. I loved the connection between Paisley and Jonas. Everything was turned upside down when the unthinkable happened.
This book was a real page turner and I cannot wait to see what comes next.
Wow!! Talk about a book that had me at the edge of my seat this book definitely took me there. It is packed full of suspense and surprises. Painted Daisies is an all-girl rock band with Paisley being the shyest but also the one who has a big part in the band. I loved the connection between Paisley and Jonas. Everything was turned upside down when the unthinkable happened.
This book was a real page turner and I cannot wait to see what comes next.
March 10, 2023
Just as I finished this book, the song No One Dies From Love by Tove Lo came on and one of the chorus lyrics are “Are the memories too stained with blood now” and that honestly is the best summary of Jonas and Paisley’s story. Their beginning was heartbreaking, emotional and oh so sad to see two young kids who fell in love dealing with something so strong as the guilt that surrounded them.
When Paisley lost her sister, she went back into herself and I loved how we see how much she’s grown after that day and all the ways she’s become the person her sister always knew she could be.
Jonas has my heart, from his anger issues, to his fear of abandonment, everything that happened to him and Paisley in this book made my heart break for him and I cried so many times while reading his POV. He has such amazing friends and an amazing support group outside of the band that he just stole the show for me.
The band as a whole has me so excited for the rest of the series! I can’t wait to read all their stories, as they are all so different but work together so well. Final note, the song “The Legacy” in the book made me cry so hard every time they sang it. This book was amazing and everything I love about LJ Evans’ books!
When Paisley lost her sister, she went back into herself and I loved how we see how much she’s grown after that day and all the ways she’s become the person her sister always knew she could be.
Jonas has my heart, from his anger issues, to his fear of abandonment, everything that happened to him and Paisley in this book made my heart break for him and I cried so many times while reading his POV. He has such amazing friends and an amazing support group outside of the band that he just stole the show for me.
The band as a whole has me so excited for the rest of the series! I can’t wait to read all their stories, as they are all so different but work together so well. Final note, the song “The Legacy” in the book made me cry so hard every time they sang it. This book was amazing and everything I love about LJ Evans’ books!
March 14, 2023
What an awesome start to a new series!
I have loved all of LJ’s books and was anxiously awaiting this book. Jonas and Paisley’s story of love gained, lost and found again is epic and consuming. It takes the reader on a journey involving a mystery (that continues throughout the series), an epic love story, and development of a cast of characters that I can’t wait to read more about.
If you love music, romance and mystery, grab this book and start your journey with the Painted Daises. You won’t regret it!
I have loved all of LJ’s books and was anxiously awaiting this book. Jonas and Paisley’s story of love gained, lost and found again is epic and consuming. It takes the reader on a journey involving a mystery (that continues throughout the series), an epic love story, and development of a cast of characters that I can’t wait to read more about.
If you love music, romance and mystery, grab this book and start your journey with the Painted Daises. You won’t regret it!
March 11, 2023
I'm always amazed by LJ's talent. The way her words create this beautiful, heart wrenching story that breaks your heart, then slowly mends it back together is pure magic. I can't wait to read the rest of the Painted Dausy series!
I was lucky to be on LJ's ARC team.
I was lucky to be on LJ's ARC team.
March 23, 2023
When I started reading Sweet Memory, I expected an angsty love story between two teens on the cusp of adulthood. And that’s what it was…until it wasn’t.
Paisley, Lil’ Bit to the band members, is the youngest member of the Painted Daisies. But it’s Paisley’s words and music that make the songs the band records. Her sister Landry started the band and makes the decisions on what they sing and how it’s going to be arranged. Paisley’s tired of being treated like a child and would like her voice to be heard in these decisions, but she’s too timid and scared to step up and tell anyone, and she’s afraid of her sister’s reaction.
Jonas has had a troubled past. His mother has always been absent from his life, and he’s been in and out of trouble often. But when he left Texas and moved to Grand Orchard he vowed to change and work on his temper; he wanted to do more with his life. Now he’s working with the recording studio, learning how to run the equipment, going to college, and making something of himself. That’s where he and Paisley first meet and connect with each other.
Paisley and Jonas have been texting and calling each other for the past 2 years while she toured with The Painted Daisies. When the Daisies arrived back in Grand Orchard to record their latest album, Paisley is excited and anxious to see Jonas, to find out if what they have between them in texts and phone calls, is real. But when she sees him, they both feel the same excitement for each other. When they hook pinkies, it’s like their souls are joined. Landry doesn’t like Jonas and doesn’t want him to be with Paisley, but Paisley won’t be deterred and spends as much time as she can with Jonas.
When the band starts getting threatening letters, everyone is scared and Landry is convinced it’s because of Jonas and something or someone in his past. As the relationship between Paisley and Jonas grows, her relationship with Landry becomes more and more strained until finally it blows up and Paisley leaves with Jonas. When tragedy happens the same night, everything changes. Paisley no longer wants to be with Jonas and she retreats into herself. The rest of the Daisies drift off into their own lives and Jonas is left alone and heartbroken.
This is first love, finding your way, and second chance story all rolled into one. The author has done a good job of weaving mystery into the story that will carry through the series. I was not expecting the direction the story went, but I loved it and couldn’t stop reading until I was finished. You definitely want to read Sweet Memory before book 2, Green Jewel is released next month!
Paisley, Lil’ Bit to the band members, is the youngest member of the Painted Daisies. But it’s Paisley’s words and music that make the songs the band records. Her sister Landry started the band and makes the decisions on what they sing and how it’s going to be arranged. Paisley’s tired of being treated like a child and would like her voice to be heard in these decisions, but she’s too timid and scared to step up and tell anyone, and she’s afraid of her sister’s reaction.
Jonas has had a troubled past. His mother has always been absent from his life, and he’s been in and out of trouble often. But when he left Texas and moved to Grand Orchard he vowed to change and work on his temper; he wanted to do more with his life. Now he’s working with the recording studio, learning how to run the equipment, going to college, and making something of himself. That’s where he and Paisley first meet and connect with each other.
Paisley and Jonas have been texting and calling each other for the past 2 years while she toured with The Painted Daisies. When the Daisies arrived back in Grand Orchard to record their latest album, Paisley is excited and anxious to see Jonas, to find out if what they have between them in texts and phone calls, is real. But when she sees him, they both feel the same excitement for each other. When they hook pinkies, it’s like their souls are joined. Landry doesn’t like Jonas and doesn’t want him to be with Paisley, but Paisley won’t be deterred and spends as much time as she can with Jonas.
When the band starts getting threatening letters, everyone is scared and Landry is convinced it’s because of Jonas and something or someone in his past. As the relationship between Paisley and Jonas grows, her relationship with Landry becomes more and more strained until finally it blows up and Paisley leaves with Jonas. When tragedy happens the same night, everything changes. Paisley no longer wants to be with Jonas and she retreats into herself. The rest of the Daisies drift off into their own lives and Jonas is left alone and heartbroken.
This is first love, finding your way, and second chance story all rolled into one. The author has done a good job of weaving mystery into the story that will carry through the series. I was not expecting the direction the story went, but I loved it and couldn’t stop reading until I was finished. You definitely want to read Sweet Memory before book 2, Green Jewel is released next month!
March 13, 2023
What a tremendous way to start a new series! Sweet Memory, book one in The Painted Daisies series, is everything I had hoped it would be, but so much more. Ms. Evans has not only given us the incredible and endearing love story of Paisley and Jonas; she has also crafted a masterful mystery with an impressive list of suspects we are only beginning to learn about. The suspense of this book was captivating! I absolutely can't wait for the second book in the series, Green Jewel, which releases in April!
One of my favorite things about all of Ms. Evans's books is the way in which she crafts her characters, and how she allows us to get to know them, to like and then love them, as she builds their stories. In Sweet Memory, she gives us Paisley, "Little Bit", the youngest of The Painted Daisies all-female rock band, and Jonas, a young up-and-coming music producer with a troubled past. Their love story is sweet, and then sad, and then overwhelmingly beautiful, as they lift the other up with acceptance, encouragement, and unconditional love. As much as I am so in love with both of them, I am also so invested in almost every other character in this book. (Even some who I did not like at some point in the book). Each of the Daisies will find their way into your heart, and I look forward to learning more about each one of them in their own upcoming stories.
I highly recommend Sweet Memory! It's a beautiful love story, and a fantastic mystery, I'll not soon forget!
I received an ARC at my request.
One of my favorite things about all of Ms. Evans's books is the way in which she crafts her characters, and how she allows us to get to know them, to like and then love them, as she builds their stories. In Sweet Memory, she gives us Paisley, "Little Bit", the youngest of The Painted Daisies all-female rock band, and Jonas, a young up-and-coming music producer with a troubled past. Their love story is sweet, and then sad, and then overwhelmingly beautiful, as they lift the other up with acceptance, encouragement, and unconditional love. As much as I am so in love with both of them, I am also so invested in almost every other character in this book. (Even some who I did not like at some point in the book). Each of the Daisies will find their way into your heart, and I look forward to learning more about each one of them in their own upcoming stories.
I highly recommend Sweet Memory! It's a beautiful love story, and a fantastic mystery, I'll not soon forget!
I received an ARC at my request.
April 3, 2023
Wow!!! So impressed with this book 1 of LJ Evans’s new series!!!
Absolutely loved all the mystery surrounding these beautiful, raw, and oh so relatable characters!!!
This was definitely a different kind of story than I normally read, but it was so worth taking a chance on!!! I’d even go so far as to say it’s one of my top reads of the year!
I’m so excited to get my hands on book 2 now!!!! Outstanding writing LJ Evans!!! I highly recommend Sweet Memory!!
Absolutely loved all the mystery surrounding these beautiful, raw, and oh so relatable characters!!!
This was definitely a different kind of story than I normally read, but it was so worth taking a chance on!!! I’d even go so far as to say it’s one of my top reads of the year!
I’m so excited to get my hands on book 2 now!!!! Outstanding writing LJ Evans!!! I highly recommend Sweet Memory!!
March 30, 2023
I’ll do my best to give a review that is spoiler free, but it’ll be hard!
This book is book 1 of a series of 5 that is about an all girl rock band. There is a tragedy that happens and the story sure that will continue through the books.
This story had been wonderful character development and I highly recommend that you read these!
This book is book 1 of a series of 5 that is about an all girl rock band. There is a tragedy that happens and the story sure that will continue through the books.
This story had been wonderful character development and I highly recommend that you read these!
March 21, 2023
Sweet Memory is the thrilling and suspenseful start to a new series by LJ Evans. A slow burn and riveting story that unfolds amid the notes of music and the mystery of a murder. It has all the ingredients that made me fall in love with the author's writing. Yet, this book takes it to an even higher level.
Paisley Kim is the keyboardist of The Painted Daisies, an all-female rock band. Her older sister Landy is the face of the group, yet Paisley is the soul. Her songwriting is heartfelt and raw and speaks to everyone. She feels a strong connection with music producer Jonas Riccoli when she meets him, and they build a friendship that slowly evolves into more as she goes on the road.
Their story has been made of texts and phone calls for the past two years. They will finally see each other again and be together as the band gets ready to record its newest album. But Landry warns Paisley to stay away from Jonas, who has a less-than-stellar reputation. And someone is really against them because, suddenly, Landry is murdered.
The loss of her sister changes Paisley and forces her to grow up even more. Grief changes her. But Jonas is set on being by her side and ensuring nothing happens to her. These two are so made for each other. She is the calm to his troubled past. He is her sounding board.
The atmosphere, unforeseen twists, and questions make this story alluring and addictive, creating a magnetic thirst for what will come. While Sweet Memory focuses on this couple, the mystery will be carried over to the following books. I'm excited to discover the missing pieces.
Paisley Kim is the keyboardist of The Painted Daisies, an all-female rock band. Her older sister Landy is the face of the group, yet Paisley is the soul. Her songwriting is heartfelt and raw and speaks to everyone. She feels a strong connection with music producer Jonas Riccoli when she meets him, and they build a friendship that slowly evolves into more as she goes on the road.
Their story has been made of texts and phone calls for the past two years. They will finally see each other again and be together as the band gets ready to record its newest album. But Landry warns Paisley to stay away from Jonas, who has a less-than-stellar reputation. And someone is really against them because, suddenly, Landry is murdered.
The loss of her sister changes Paisley and forces her to grow up even more. Grief changes her. But Jonas is set on being by her side and ensuring nothing happens to her. These two are so made for each other. She is the calm to his troubled past. He is her sounding board.
The atmosphere, unforeseen twists, and questions make this story alluring and addictive, creating a magnetic thirst for what will come. While Sweet Memory focuses on this couple, the mystery will be carried over to the following books. I'm excited to discover the missing pieces.
July 12, 2023
If you like soap-opera levels of melodrama, this book is for you. There’s absolutely no chemistry between the MCs, which makes lines like this sound really corny - “There’s no way we can hide from each other because we’re really one soul in two bodies.” Seriously. The lines in this book look like they were borrowed from Dynasty. At least that show was mildly entertaining.
At the beginning of the book, we see snippets of text messages between Paisley and Jonas. Are we supposed to extrapolate a whole relationship from a few lines of text? There’s literally nothing that showed readers how their relationship developed. We’re just supposed to take the author on her word that they’re madly in love with each other. I’m so annoyed that I wasted my time on this, banking on the supposed suspense in the story to make up for the lack of romance. Even that was a disappointment…
At the beginning of the book, we see snippets of text messages between Paisley and Jonas. Are we supposed to extrapolate a whole relationship from a few lines of text? There’s literally nothing that showed readers how their relationship developed. We’re just supposed to take the author on her word that they’re madly in love with each other. I’m so annoyed that I wasted my time on this, banking on the supposed suspense in the story to make up for the lack of romance. Even that was a disappointment…
March 8, 2023
It’s been quite some time since I’ve read anything written by L.J. Evans, and what a joy it was to have an opportunity to ARC read this book for her! This story was very emotional. Tons of angst and heartbreak. I had zero expectations going in, so a lot of the story came as a big shock to me. I grew to love the characters and enjoyed the twists and turns of the suspense plot too!
Our heroine, Paisley is eighteen at the beginning of the story. She’s texting with Jonas, our hero, and it’s clear they have a friendship and potential budding romance. It was within the first 20% of the book that I started questioning whether or not this was truly a standalone. Although it’s marketed as such, I found myself confused and a little lost a few different times throughout the book. In my opinion, it should be recommended to read the other book that these two are first introduced in (I don’t know the title of that book OR which series it is - sorry!!!) so that the reader isn’t lost.
Due to not having read that other book and having no back story or true context about why Landry (Paisley’s older sister) hated Jonas so much, I found Landry extremely insufferable. Everyone else had their quirks and Paisley’s chemistry with Jonas was off the charts, but Landry really put a damper on things for the first half of the novel. She was my only real complaint ☺️ The beautiful connection Paisley shared with Jonas, innocent in its inception and then passionate and explosive when they got older, was the dynamite this story needed. It’s often times difficult to find authors who can write both naive, almost childlike adoration and vehement adult love equally well. L.J. does just that in this story. Paisley experiences a huge loss and blossoms into a strong, brave woman who still loves Jonas with her whole heart. It was amazing to witness that transformation.
I cannot wait for the next book in the series! The foundation for this amazing, all-female rock band series mixed with suspense and loads of chemistry was simply spectacular. I’m thrilled to see where L.J. Evans takes these characters and this suspense plot next. Until book 2!💋
⭐️⭐️⭐️.75
🔥🔥
3.75 stars ⭐️ RTC!
Rockstar romance
Friends to lovers
Second chance
Romantic suspense
⚠️TW: on-page murder, stalking
Our heroine, Paisley is eighteen at the beginning of the story. She’s texting with Jonas, our hero, and it’s clear they have a friendship and potential budding romance. It was within the first 20% of the book that I started questioning whether or not this was truly a standalone. Although it’s marketed as such, I found myself confused and a little lost a few different times throughout the book. In my opinion, it should be recommended to read the other book that these two are first introduced in (I don’t know the title of that book OR which series it is - sorry!!!) so that the reader isn’t lost.
Due to not having read that other book and having no back story or true context about why Landry (Paisley’s older sister) hated Jonas so much, I found Landry extremely insufferable. Everyone else had their quirks and Paisley’s chemistry with Jonas was off the charts, but Landry really put a damper on things for the first half of the novel. She was my only real complaint ☺️ The beautiful connection Paisley shared with Jonas, innocent in its inception and then passionate and explosive when they got older, was the dynamite this story needed. It’s often times difficult to find authors who can write both naive, almost childlike adoration and vehement adult love equally well. L.J. does just that in this story. Paisley experiences a huge loss and blossoms into a strong, brave woman who still loves Jonas with her whole heart. It was amazing to witness that transformation.
I cannot wait for the next book in the series! The foundation for this amazing, all-female rock band series mixed with suspense and loads of chemistry was simply spectacular. I’m thrilled to see where L.J. Evans takes these characters and this suspense plot next. Until book 2!💋
⭐️⭐️⭐️.75
🔥🔥
3.75 stars ⭐️ RTC!
Rockstar romance
Friends to lovers
Second chance
Romantic suspense
⚠️TW: on-page murder, stalking
March 6, 2023
Sweet Memory is Book One in the new series (The Painted Daisies) by LJ. Evans. The series follows an all girl rock band who are widely know around the world. Each full length novel has a different HEA and a completed suspense plot but is best read in order to keep up to date with the overarching murder mystery. A different book from the series will be released each month for the next 5 month.
Book one follows the youngest in the band, Paisley as she reconnects with the boy who gets her, who understands her and brings out her best self. Paisley isn’t like her other band mates. She’s full of anxiety and has to do things in a certain way before she can do certain things. Her sister Landry is her self appointed protector. Always helping and protecting even if it is a little too much especially when it comes to Jonas.
Jonas has a past, he made a bad decision and it still haunts him to this day. Almost every day is a struggle in his mind and with his anger. It’s hard, it’s a lot but Jonas will do anything to make things better and that’s exactly what he does throughout the book. He tries and tries and tries some more. There’s nobody that calms his inner voice down more than Paisley. She makes him see he’s not the monster he thinks he is.
Watching these two throughout the book has been interesting. I liked seeing how different they are with each other compared to others. I liked how easy it is with them.
Now the storyline..I did not expect that but I loved it!
I can NOT wait to see what the other girls in the bands books are going to be about and I NEED to know exactly who did it!!
This is the first book I’ve read from this author and I’m excited to see what happens next. Sweet Memory has been a fun yet sad read. It’s full of twists you won’t see coming and shocking events that’ll have you gasping.
Book one follows the youngest in the band, Paisley as she reconnects with the boy who gets her, who understands her and brings out her best self. Paisley isn’t like her other band mates. She’s full of anxiety and has to do things in a certain way before she can do certain things. Her sister Landry is her self appointed protector. Always helping and protecting even if it is a little too much especially when it comes to Jonas.
Jonas has a past, he made a bad decision and it still haunts him to this day. Almost every day is a struggle in his mind and with his anger. It’s hard, it’s a lot but Jonas will do anything to make things better and that’s exactly what he does throughout the book. He tries and tries and tries some more. There’s nobody that calms his inner voice down more than Paisley. She makes him see he’s not the monster he thinks he is.
Watching these two throughout the book has been interesting. I liked seeing how different they are with each other compared to others. I liked how easy it is with them.
Now the storyline..I did not expect that but I loved it!
I can NOT wait to see what the other girls in the bands books are going to be about and I NEED to know exactly who did it!!
This is the first book I’ve read from this author and I’m excited to see what happens next. Sweet Memory has been a fun yet sad read. It’s full of twists you won’t see coming and shocking events that’ll have you gasping.
March 5, 2023
So many highs and so many lows in this book, I can't even put what I'm feeling into words. This is the beginning of The Painted Daisies series, each book following one of the band members as they try to unravel the mystery of their bandmate's murder and finding love along the way. The story of Paisley and Jonas is full of pain, devotion, tenderness, and strength.
Paisley and Jonas were friends as 16 year-olds, texting each other for years, slowly growing their relationship, and both wanting more eventually. When they meet again when the Painted Daisies are in town again to record their next album, sparks fly. Unfortunately, Landry, Paisley's sister and figurehead of the band doesn't think Jonas is good for Paisley. Then, after Landry is killed, Paisley retreats into herself and pushes Jonas away. Time passes and when their paths cross again, Jonas is not about to let Paisley put her life at risk without being by her side.
"You make me feel seen for the first time in my life, " she told him softly. "Not as a daughter or a little sister or a teen rock star, but as Paisley." Jonas loves Paisley with so much purity and devotion, it jumps off the pages. Paisley loves Jonas, but is so caught up in her pain and thoughts about what Landry would want, that she can't deal with any feelings. This is an emotional rollercoaster with plot twists and complex layers of storytelling that will keep you reading into the wee hours of the morning. In all honesty, there were parts of the story that were so heavy, I had to set the book aside for a few minutes before I could continue, but I didn't want to put it down all at the same time. Listening to the playlist song for each chapter before I read it really helped set the stage for the chapter. Kudos to LJ Evans for packing such a punch with her song selections and intricate plotlines! I can't wait for the next book!
Paisley and Jonas were friends as 16 year-olds, texting each other for years, slowly growing their relationship, and both wanting more eventually. When they meet again when the Painted Daisies are in town again to record their next album, sparks fly. Unfortunately, Landry, Paisley's sister and figurehead of the band doesn't think Jonas is good for Paisley. Then, after Landry is killed, Paisley retreats into herself and pushes Jonas away. Time passes and when their paths cross again, Jonas is not about to let Paisley put her life at risk without being by her side.
"You make me feel seen for the first time in my life, " she told him softly. "Not as a daughter or a little sister or a teen rock star, but as Paisley." Jonas loves Paisley with so much purity and devotion, it jumps off the pages. Paisley loves Jonas, but is so caught up in her pain and thoughts about what Landry would want, that she can't deal with any feelings. This is an emotional rollercoaster with plot twists and complex layers of storytelling that will keep you reading into the wee hours of the morning. In all honesty, there were parts of the story that were so heavy, I had to set the book aside for a few minutes before I could continue, but I didn't want to put it down all at the same time. Listening to the playlist song for each chapter before I read it really helped set the stage for the chapter. Kudos to LJ Evans for packing such a punch with her song selections and intricate plotlines! I can't wait for the next book!
June 4, 2023
Thanks to That’s What She Said publishing for the eARC and to the author for sending me a beautiful paperback copy—it’s an honor to provide my candid review.
Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ (0-5)
Steam: 🔥🔥🔥 (0-5)
What I’m Starry-Eyed Over:
🤩 Suspense romance—more interesting and exciting as it went on.
🤩 Rock-star romance.
🤩 Second chance romance.
🤩 Slow burn that’s so worth it. The way they need and get lost in each other is so good.
🤩 Music in books.
🤩 Self-defense moves!
🤩 MMC Jonas is amazing, swoon-worthy, and resilient.
🤩 Heart-wrenching and emotional: I was so annoyed with Landry (Paisley’s sister), uneasy with the anticipation of knowing Paisley would die, and so frustrated with Paisley in her depression. I think these are intended reader responses caused by good writing.
What I’m Wishing/Dizzy About:
💫 I had to “pause for now” when I started this book back in April because the heaviness just wasn’t good for me during a time of extra stress in my life from health issues and procedures. But, when I picked it back up today, I couldn’t stop.
💫 It’s totally a case of “It’s not you, it’s me.” I feel strongly and get my heart wrenched easily, so I prefer more laughs to help me get through the other strong feelings in books. I could have used a few more light-hearted and funny moments to soothe my soul. For fans of Abbey Jiminez and Colleen Hoover, this one will wreck you like you love to be wrecked.
Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ (0-5)
Steam: 🔥🔥🔥 (0-5)
What I’m Starry-Eyed Over:
🤩 Suspense romance—more interesting and exciting as it went on.
🤩 Rock-star romance.
🤩 Second chance romance.
🤩 Slow burn that’s so worth it. The way they need and get lost in each other is so good.
🤩 Music in books.
🤩 Self-defense moves!
🤩 MMC Jonas is amazing, swoon-worthy, and resilient.
🤩 Heart-wrenching and emotional: I was so annoyed with Landry (Paisley’s sister), uneasy with the anticipation of knowing Paisley would die, and so frustrated with Paisley in her depression. I think these are intended reader responses caused by good writing.
What I’m Wishing/Dizzy About:
💫 I had to “pause for now” when I started this book back in April because the heaviness just wasn’t good for me during a time of extra stress in my life from health issues and procedures. But, when I picked it back up today, I couldn’t stop.
💫 It’s totally a case of “It’s not you, it’s me.” I feel strongly and get my heart wrenched easily, so I prefer more laughs to help me get through the other strong feelings in books. I could have used a few more light-hearted and funny moments to soothe my soul. For fans of Abbey Jiminez and Colleen Hoover, this one will wreck you like you love to be wrecked.
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