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Some Kind of Love
I hadn’t planned to ever return to the small town of my childhood.It suffocated me. It also had Freddy Bale and I definitely didn’t plan on seeing him again.He broke my eighteen year old heart and left me with secrets which have weighed heavy on my soul.
Now I’m back. I have no choice but to be here. Back with secrets.
What if there’s a chance for us though? What if we could have a life, a future together? The time that I spend with him makes me think we could be something.The problem is my heart belongs to someone else, someone I will always love more than Freddy. Someone who could ruin any chance I have with the man I was meant to be with.
Life is never easy and love is even harder.
Now I’m back. I have no choice but to be here. Back with secrets.
What if there’s a chance for us though? What if we could have a life, a future together? The time that I spend with him makes me think we could be something.The problem is my heart belongs to someone else, someone I will always love more than Freddy. Someone who could ruin any chance I have with the man I was meant to be with.
Life is never easy and love is even harder.
336 pages, Kindle Edition
Published February 28, 2023
855 people are currently reading
1091 people want to read
About the author
Anna Bloom
82 books755 followersRomance without limits!
A book hoarder and coffee addict at heart Anna's main existence in life is to create beautiful words about exquisitely flawed characters. She's a slow burn Princess and all about working for that happy ever after, but she guarantees when you get it, you'll fall so hard you might never want to surface again.
Be prepared to oooh and aaah and squeal with delight as Anna takes you on a journey you are unlikely to forget.
Anna lives at in Surrey, the UK, with her husband and three children. She happiest writing (thinking of ways to make you swoon), drinking coffee and snuggling up on the sofa in the evenings for a binge of her favourite shows or reading in bed. She loves to chat with her readers on social media so if you love the words come and find her, she sure loves to talk.
Sign up for Anna's newsletter here and receive a FREE NOVEL The Truth About Love: https://www.subscribepage.com/AnnaBloom
A book hoarder and coffee addict at heart Anna's main existence in life is to create beautiful words about exquisitely flawed characters. She's a slow burn Princess and all about working for that happy ever after, but she guarantees when you get it, you'll fall so hard you might never want to surface again.
Be prepared to oooh and aaah and squeal with delight as Anna takes you on a journey you are unlikely to forget.
Anna lives at in Surrey, the UK, with her husband and three children. She happiest writing (thinking of ways to make you swoon), drinking coffee and snuggling up on the sofa in the evenings for a binge of her favourite shows or reading in bed. She loves to chat with her readers on social media so if you love the words come and find her, she sure loves to talk.
Sign up for Anna's newsletter here and receive a FREE NOVEL The Truth About Love: https://www.subscribepage.com/AnnaBloom
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 72 reviews
July 22, 2022
While the writing itself wasn't the worst I've read, I'm still not understanding all the high ratings here. The heroine made this book a true chore to get through and these days it's the rule rather than the exception that heroines are portrayed in a largely unfavourable light. I just don't get it. I don't relate to such women and I daresay I'm far from the only one with this issue.
This particular heroine, Amber, was a stupid, slovenly cow who never seemed to grow past the mental age of 14.
Indeed.
A sampling of her dialogue -
'Uh.'
'Duh.'
And my personal favourite -
'Bleugh'...or was it 'bleurgh'?
Either way, what the FUCK kind of shite is that and who even says it?
I'll tell you who.
Nobody.
And why are readers expected to feel sisterhood with a fat, slobby heroine who wears pj's in public, falls down all the time and has the vocabulary of a moron?
That's a huge ask and that's before also taking into account her incessantly adolescent behaviour and questionable personal hygiene. Who goes for months without shaving or forgets if they put on deodorant? My teenaged son gets a pass for that shit but not a woman of nearly 30 years. The only thing more appalling than this heroine being responsible for raising another human being is a hot, fit hero being completely in love with her.
News flash:
Girls like Amber don't get guys like Freddy.
But this is Romanceland, where a heroine can have a heroes baby, keep him a secret for 10 FUCKING YEARS, allow another man to raise the child as his own and never have to answer for it. She claimed to always put her son first but her actions were born of cowardice rather than maternal instinct. When the hero finally learns he's a father he's told that the boy can't know the truth. Wasn't bad enough that she deprived father and son of knowing one another. She also made Freddy deal with another man calling the shots and having visitation rights and gave Freddy no rights at all.
There was a lot more to dislike about this book but that would give it more time than it deserves. Unrelatable, sloppy heroine, Mary Sue hero, no character growth and a lot of unnecessary angst that does nothing to improve the story. For anyone older than 30 I'd advise skipping it.
This particular heroine, Amber, was a stupid, slovenly cow who never seemed to grow past the mental age of 14.
Indeed.
A sampling of her dialogue -
'Uh.'
'Duh.'
And my personal favourite -
'Bleugh'...or was it 'bleurgh'?
Either way, what the FUCK kind of shite is that and who even says it?
I'll tell you who.
Nobody.
And why are readers expected to feel sisterhood with a fat, slobby heroine who wears pj's in public, falls down all the time and has the vocabulary of a moron?
That's a huge ask and that's before also taking into account her incessantly adolescent behaviour and questionable personal hygiene. Who goes for months without shaving or forgets if they put on deodorant? My teenaged son gets a pass for that shit but not a woman of nearly 30 years. The only thing more appalling than this heroine being responsible for raising another human being is a hot, fit hero being completely in love with her.
News flash:
Girls like Amber don't get guys like Freddy.
But this is Romanceland, where a heroine can have a heroes baby, keep him a secret for 10 FUCKING YEARS, allow another man to raise the child as his own and never have to answer for it. She claimed to always put her son first but her actions were born of cowardice rather than maternal instinct. When the hero finally learns he's a father he's told that the boy can't know the truth. Wasn't bad enough that she deprived father and son of knowing one another. She also made Freddy deal with another man calling the shots and having visitation rights and gave Freddy no rights at all.
There was a lot more to dislike about this book but that would give it more time than it deserves. Unrelatable, sloppy heroine, Mary Sue hero, no character growth and a lot of unnecessary angst that does nothing to improve the story. For anyone older than 30 I'd advise skipping it.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 17, 2022
Theirs was an instant attraction that quickly turned into much more. Then tragedy struck and as a result, Freddy Bale made a really bad decision that cost him dearly. Amber French was hurt by his rejection and left town without any notice. No happy ending for these young lovers in round one.
Ten years later, Amber’s dad has died, and her mother now suffers from early onset Alzheimer’s requiring Amber to return home to help in caring for her. Round two finds Freddy still waiting and hoping for her return – and a second chance to make things right. But nothing is ever quite the same. Ten years brings lots of life changes. And Amber is holding onto secrets that could turn everything topsy-turvy.
One of those second chance love stories where you could tell what was going to happen from a mile away. Nothing readers haven’t seen or experienced before but still a solid read. Characters make this one worthwhile – even though Amber frustrated me on many levels.
This is an entertaining story that ran the gamut of emotions. A young couple experience their firsts together ending in heartbreak. Then, after years of separation amid the trials of life, find that oh so precious second chance for happily-ever-after.
NOTE: "Where the Wisteria Grows" - a new standalone by Anna Bloom release date is 12/8/22
Ten years later, Amber’s dad has died, and her mother now suffers from early onset Alzheimer’s requiring Amber to return home to help in caring for her. Round two finds Freddy still waiting and hoping for her return – and a second chance to make things right. But nothing is ever quite the same. Ten years brings lots of life changes. And Amber is holding onto secrets that could turn everything topsy-turvy.
One of those second chance love stories where you could tell what was going to happen from a mile away. Nothing readers haven’t seen or experienced before but still a solid read. Characters make this one worthwhile – even though Amber frustrated me on many levels.
This is an entertaining story that ran the gamut of emotions. A young couple experience their firsts together ending in heartbreak. Then, after years of separation amid the trials of life, find that oh so precious second chance for happily-ever-after.
NOTE: "Where the Wisteria Grows" - a new standalone by Anna Bloom release date is 12/8/22
March 9, 2025
No.
First, I don’t love continuous flashbacks that last chapters with a time jump that made me queasy.
I couldn’t care less because if you want to focus in the past you have to first write about the past, then about the present.
While the book was like, a few chapters in the present then a few chapters in the past somewhere.
Nah.
Second, the heroine nursed to health the hero when she was just 18 and he broke up with her because they were too young. Well, to me this would mean you’re dead. I don’t give such kind of second chances. Oh he wanted to be the noble one because he didn’t want her to regret him, so after she spent months nursing him he just ended with her.
She left. She found out she was pregnant.
She never told him and went back home ten years later because her mother was sick. I don’t agree with this. She was 18 and pregnant. She should have come back as soon as she found out and she should have expected that he helped her both financially and emotionally. No matter what. Why those women are always that stupid. So while he had the time of his life she was raising his child . Just no.
Then she got married to a guy who, imo was hundreds time better than the loser hero, but she didn’t love him so after ten years she just filed for divorce and expected that he leave the kid he raised with her, because she had reconnected with the hero. Just awful.
Safety is murky. We know she was married to om, but about the hero, who claims he always loved her and just her, we don’t have anything, but I would bet my right hand that he wasn’t celibate since both characters here are awful, especially the hero.
It’s implied he looked for her after some time, maybe some months, but her parents never told him where she was, but who cares. He had broken up with her in the first place so he can go eff himself.
Third, the heroine’s mother suffers from dementia, probably Alzheimer’s. She leaves her alone and the woman dies after burning the house. This was simply criminal, in my country you go to jail if you leave a person who’s not capable to look after themselves alone.
And the heroine should be back because her mother needed her, but she was out having fun with the hero instead. What can I say.
First, I don’t love continuous flashbacks that last chapters with a time jump that made me queasy.
I couldn’t care less because if you want to focus in the past you have to first write about the past, then about the present.
While the book was like, a few chapters in the present then a few chapters in the past somewhere.
Nah.
Second, the heroine nursed to health the hero when she was just 18 and he broke up with her because they were too young. Well, to me this would mean you’re dead. I don’t give such kind of second chances. Oh he wanted to be the noble one because he didn’t want her to regret him, so after she spent months nursing him he just ended with her.
She left. She found out she was pregnant.
She never told him and went back home ten years later because her mother was sick. I don’t agree with this. She was 18 and pregnant. She should have come back as soon as she found out and she should have expected that he helped her both financially and emotionally. No matter what. Why those women are always that stupid. So while he had the time of his life she was raising his child . Just no.
Then she got married to a guy who, imo was hundreds time better than the loser hero, but she didn’t love him so after ten years she just filed for divorce and expected that he leave the kid he raised with her, because she had reconnected with the hero. Just awful.
Safety is murky. We know she was married to om, but about the hero, who claims he always loved her and just her, we don’t have anything, but I would bet my right hand that he wasn’t celibate since both characters here are awful, especially the hero.
It’s implied he looked for her after some time, maybe some months, but her parents never told him where she was, but who cares. He had broken up with her in the first place so he can go eff himself.
Third, the heroine’s mother suffers from dementia, probably Alzheimer’s. She leaves her alone and the woman dies after burning the house. This was simply criminal, in my country you go to jail if you leave a person who’s not capable to look after themselves alone.
And the heroine should be back because her mother needed her, but she was out having fun with the hero instead. What can I say.
April 13, 2024
Some Kind of Love was about 28-year-old Amber (French) Williamson, a writer, and 30-year-old Fred "Freddy" Bale, the middle Bale brother, and the owner of a local garage.
Freddy and Amber met when she was 17 (he was 19) after her car had broken down on a cold, snowy night, which was the beginning of their relationship. A year later, Freddy was recovering from being hurt in an accident. It took him a minimum of six months to recover, during which Amber was at his side as much as possible to help and support him. On the day of her senior prom, she learned that he had been moved to a convalescing room in the hospital because he had improved enough that he was able to stand using crutches (sticks is what they called it). It was during the visit that she presented him with an acceptance letter to a local college. Before the accident, she had planned to attend a school far from their small town, but she made a different choice so that she could stay close to the boy she loved. Although she hadn't wanted to attend prom without him, he had convinced her to do so. But then she got the shock of her life when he showed up to dance with her. There was just one problem. Freddy wasn't smiling, and he seemed to be struggling with something. When she asked him about it, he told her he needed to take a break from their relationship and "see what else is out there in the world before we settle. So we're sure". The reason he gave her was that their love was "too easy" and that no one finds their HEA at 18 and 20 years of age. The way he worded things told her that her mother had gotten to him because she recalled a conversation between her and her mother where she was told she needed to "wait ten years before settling down". Even though Freddy denied it, she knew the other woman had gotten to him and interfered with their relationship. However, try as she might, Freddy didn't change his mind, so she told him there would be no second chances for the two of them. If he chose to search for other options, they were over for good. After telling her he wouldn't change his mind, they said their final goodbyes and she walked away, leaving not only Freddy behind but also her family and the small town she'd known her entire life. It would be ten years before they would see each other again, but things would never be the same.
Amber returned home to a mother who was succumbing to early onset dementia (her father had passed away the year before), a house that had fallen into disrepair (and could have made an excellent episode of the television show "Hoarders"), a nine-year-old son who didn't know his real father and a former BFF to whom she hadn't spoken in ten years. The only thing that wasn't made clear until much later was the fact she was that her husband hadn't agreed to a divorce.
The following day, she ran into her former BFF at the grocery store, who she learned had married Freddy's youngest brother, Grant. A few hours later, the doorbell rang, only for her to open the door and come face to face with Freddy. He welcomed her back home, using the name he used to call her "Amber French" (he always seemed to call her by her first and last names). She corrected him, then slammed the door in his face. The encounter threw her into a flashback of how their relationship started.
Her BFF showed up later that day with wine, and they chatted for a while. Amber later learned from her son that Freddy had returned while she was visiting with her friend, only for her mother to send him away with some very harsh words.
I hated that the story was told only from Amber's POV because then we didn't get to know what was going on with Freddy. There was also the fact that for the first 13 chapters of the story, the two main characters were rarely ever together and, when they were, they hardly said anything of significance. Then Freddy showed up after her estranged husband left, pulled her outside, told her he didn't care if she was married, and that he had been waiting for her to come home. Then he kissed her?! Which got interrupted by a freaking flashback and never returned to the scene?! No explanations, no conversation, nada! WTF?! It was frustrating as hell. Then there was the fact that, although she was separated and her son called the man "Dad", he was only mentioned but rarely took part in the story.
The night after they shared a kiss, Freddy showed up again, kissed her senseless...and met her son for the first time, they finally had the first intelligent and honest conversation they had ever shared in the entire book so far (and that's saying something because the FMC wasn't very articulate. She could barely string two words together to form a complete sentence. Why do authors write some of their characters to be stupid?!).
The story was okay. It had plenty of angst and more than enough drama, but it lacked in every other way. The emotional rollercoaster had very few twists and turns. There were no surprises to pique the reader's interest. Even the spice level was almost non-existent. The push/pull between the two main characters was weak and felt contrived. Any contention was like a paper towel that disintegrated at the first sign of water.
Neither of the main characters felt fully developed, and they certainly weren't mature for the ages they were supposed to be. The fact that the 9-year-old son was allowed to denigrate his mother was disappointing too, and he did it for most of the times he was in the story.
The language of the book was dated, making it feel like the characters were from the 1970s or 1980s, which was uncomfortable, to say the least. And, BOY, did I detest the timing of each flashback! Every. Single. One. Came at the worst possible time. They were not only disruptive, but they were out of place for the most part. Some of them didn't fit with the subject that the present timing ended before they flashed back. They also made the book longer than necessary. The flashbacks took time away from what could have been spent with the two main characters reconnecting, they were longer than the portions of the story that took place in the present. Everything told about the past could have been whittled down and told during conversations between the MMC and the FMC. I hated that Amber's BFF kept blaming her for how things went sideways 10 years earlier. Sure, she didn't have to leave the way she did, and she probably could/should have let her know she was okay. But it was Freddy who pushed her away. The fact that she was still an impressionable 18-year-old didn't help either. She wasn't the only one who made mistakes. Her BFF didn't make it easy on her by not supporting her relationship with Freddy when they first got together. Another huge issue was when Freddy learned he was Isaac's father, Amber demanded that no one should know...not even Isaac. She tried to pass it off as being worried about asking her son to bear too many burdens for a child his age, but the truth was she didn't want him to look at her differently. That was so very wrong. She let Isaac continue to call her estranged husband "Dad" (even though he knew he wasn't) when his REAL dad was standing in front of him.
There were too many things wrong with this book for it to be given a full five-star rating. I couldn't even honestly give it a four-star rating, and I struggled with whether or not to do three stars. I ended up giving it two-and-a-half stars, rounded up to three.
Freddy and Amber met when she was 17 (he was 19) after her car had broken down on a cold, snowy night, which was the beginning of their relationship. A year later, Freddy was recovering from being hurt in an accident. It took him a minimum of six months to recover, during which Amber was at his side as much as possible to help and support him. On the day of her senior prom, she learned that he had been moved to a convalescing room in the hospital because he had improved enough that he was able to stand using crutches (sticks is what they called it). It was during the visit that she presented him with an acceptance letter to a local college. Before the accident, she had planned to attend a school far from their small town, but she made a different choice so that she could stay close to the boy she loved. Although she hadn't wanted to attend prom without him, he had convinced her to do so. But then she got the shock of her life when he showed up to dance with her. There was just one problem. Freddy wasn't smiling, and he seemed to be struggling with something. When she asked him about it, he told her he needed to take a break from their relationship and "see what else is out there in the world before we settle. So we're sure". The reason he gave her was that their love was "too easy" and that no one finds their HEA at 18 and 20 years of age. The way he worded things told her that her mother had gotten to him because she recalled a conversation between her and her mother where she was told she needed to "wait ten years before settling down". Even though Freddy denied it, she knew the other woman had gotten to him and interfered with their relationship. However, try as she might, Freddy didn't change his mind, so she told him there would be no second chances for the two of them. If he chose to search for other options, they were over for good. After telling her he wouldn't change his mind, they said their final goodbyes and she walked away, leaving not only Freddy behind but also her family and the small town she'd known her entire life. It would be ten years before they would see each other again, but things would never be the same.
Amber returned home to a mother who was succumbing to early onset dementia (her father had passed away the year before), a house that had fallen into disrepair (and could have made an excellent episode of the television show "Hoarders"), a nine-year-old son who didn't know his real father and a former BFF to whom she hadn't spoken in ten years. The only thing that wasn't made clear until much later was the fact she was that her husband hadn't agreed to a divorce.
The following day, she ran into her former BFF at the grocery store, who she learned had married Freddy's youngest brother, Grant. A few hours later, the doorbell rang, only for her to open the door and come face to face with Freddy. He welcomed her back home, using the name he used to call her "Amber French" (he always seemed to call her by her first and last names). She corrected him, then slammed the door in his face. The encounter threw her into a flashback of how their relationship started.
Her BFF showed up later that day with wine, and they chatted for a while. Amber later learned from her son that Freddy had returned while she was visiting with her friend, only for her mother to send him away with some very harsh words.
I hated that the story was told only from Amber's POV because then we didn't get to know what was going on with Freddy. There was also the fact that for the first 13 chapters of the story, the two main characters were rarely ever together and, when they were, they hardly said anything of significance. Then Freddy showed up after her estranged husband left, pulled her outside, told her he didn't care if she was married, and that he had been waiting for her to come home. Then he kissed her?! Which got interrupted by a freaking flashback and never returned to the scene?! No explanations, no conversation, nada! WTF?! It was frustrating as hell. Then there was the fact that, although she was separated and her son called the man "Dad", he was only mentioned but rarely took part in the story.
The night after they shared a kiss, Freddy showed up again, kissed her senseless...and met her son for the first time, they finally had the first intelligent and honest conversation they had ever shared in the entire book so far (and that's saying something because the FMC wasn't very articulate. She could barely string two words together to form a complete sentence. Why do authors write some of their characters to be stupid?!).
The story was okay. It had plenty of angst and more than enough drama, but it lacked in every other way. The emotional rollercoaster had very few twists and turns. There were no surprises to pique the reader's interest. Even the spice level was almost non-existent. The push/pull between the two main characters was weak and felt contrived. Any contention was like a paper towel that disintegrated at the first sign of water.
Neither of the main characters felt fully developed, and they certainly weren't mature for the ages they were supposed to be. The fact that the 9-year-old son was allowed to denigrate his mother was disappointing too, and he did it for most of the times he was in the story.
The language of the book was dated, making it feel like the characters were from the 1970s or 1980s, which was uncomfortable, to say the least. And, BOY, did I detest the timing of each flashback! Every. Single. One. Came at the worst possible time. They were not only disruptive, but they were out of place for the most part. Some of them didn't fit with the subject that the present timing ended before they flashed back. They also made the book longer than necessary. The flashbacks took time away from what could have been spent with the two main characters reconnecting, they were longer than the portions of the story that took place in the present. Everything told about the past could have been whittled down and told during conversations between the MMC and the FMC. I hated that Amber's BFF kept blaming her for how things went sideways 10 years earlier. Sure, she didn't have to leave the way she did, and she probably could/should have let her know she was okay. But it was Freddy who pushed her away. The fact that she was still an impressionable 18-year-old didn't help either. She wasn't the only one who made mistakes. Her BFF didn't make it easy on her by not supporting her relationship with Freddy when they first got together. Another huge issue was when Freddy learned he was Isaac's father, Amber demanded that no one should know...not even Isaac. She tried to pass it off as being worried about asking her son to bear too many burdens for a child his age, but the truth was she didn't want him to look at her differently. That was so very wrong. She let Isaac continue to call her estranged husband "Dad" (even though he knew he wasn't) when his REAL dad was standing in front of him.
There were too many things wrong with this book for it to be given a full five-star rating. I couldn't even honestly give it a four-star rating, and I struggled with whether or not to do three stars. I ended up giving it two-and-a-half stars, rounded up to three.
July 15, 2022
“You once told me you thought our love was too easy…is it hard enough for you now?”
Amber French and Freddy Bale’s love was written in the stars. High school sweethearts who seemed destined to be together forever until a turn of events sees Amber flee their smalltown without a peep until her return some ten years later.
Now, twenty-eight, Amber French must face the love of her life. The boy who has invaded her thoughts and dreams for the last ten years, and the catalyst for everything that has happened during her absence. Amber returns with secrets that could cause further pain for all concerned.
“We could have been everything.”
“Freddy, we are everything…”
Some Kind of Love is a second-chance smalltown romance with a wonderful hero in Freddy Bale. This man’s patience and ability to forgive are beyond measure. Many a man would have handled Amber’s deceit somewhat differently.
Although Freddy was responsible for their breakup ten years earlier, his heart was in the right place at the time, but he couldn’t have envisaged the fallout his words would generate. Young Freddy thought he was doing the right thing for Amber but would soon learn the devastating consequences of his actions.
“Why?”
“Why what?”
Why do you love me?
“Because for ten, very long years, I couldn’t forget the smallest bit of you. You’re mapped into my soul.”
We adore Anna Bloom’s stories. This author always finds a way to burrow into our hearts and some parts of this story did just that. We loved the Bale family and Amber’s friend Dani, who brought another dimension to Freddy and Amber’s second chance love story. We’d love to hear more of the Bale brothers in future books, that’s for sure.
Amber had us feeling conflicting emotions. On the one hand, we felt for this young girl who had to learn to survive on her own at such a tender age, whose heart was obliterated by the boy she loved with every fibre of her being, but Amber frustrated us in so many ways.
Amber’s secret and its eventual revelation caused us to groan at the way she handled it once it was divulged. We felt she asked way too much of Freddy, and we became frustrated when he bent to her will time and time again. Her treatment of her best friend also left us shaking our heads. Here was a girl who stood by Amber, who welcomed her back with open arms, yet Amber seemed to drop snide comments about her husband constantly. It wore a little thin with us.
But there were so many other elements to the book which we loved, and by the end, we were willing to overlook the annoyance we felt towards Amber and her actions. After all, she was young and impressionable and left to her own devices to survive, which wouldn’t have been easy.
“This love of ours wasn’t meant to be easy, Amber. I get that now. I don’t think any love is.”
Anna Bloom is a #1Click author for us and in her latest offering, she really captured the heartbreak of first love, the emotion of second chance love, and the friendliness and familiarity of smalltown living as well as the pain and happiness of recapturing those missed years.
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July 14, 2022
“You once told me you thought our love was too easy…is it hard enough for you now?”
Amber French and Freddy Bale’s love was written in the stars. High school sweethearts who seemed destined to be together forever until a turn of events sees Amber flee their smalltown without a peep until her return some ten years later.
Now, twenty-eight, Amber French must face the love of her life. The boy who has invaded her thoughts and dreams for the last ten years, and the catalyst for everything that has happened during her absence. Amber returns with secrets that could cause further pain for all concerned.
“We could have been everything.”
“Freddy, we are everything…”
Some Kind of Love is a second-chance smalltown romance with a wonderful hero in Freddy Bale. This man’s patience and ability to forgive are beyond measure. Many a man would have handled Amber’s deceit somewhat differently.
Although Freddy was responsible for their breakup ten years earlier, his heart was in the right place at the time, but he couldn’t have envisaged the fallout his words would generate. Young Freddy thought he was doing the right thing for Amber but would soon learn the devastating consequences of his actions.
“Why?”
“Why what?”
Why do you love me?
“Because for ten, very long years, I couldn’t forget the smallest bit of you. You’re mapped into my soul.”
We adore Anna Bloom’s stories. This author always finds a way to burrow into our hearts and some parts of this story did just that. We loved the Bale family and Amber’s friend Dani, who brought another dimension to Freddy and Amber’s second chance love story. We’d love to hear more of the Bale brothers in future books, that’s for sure.
Amber had us feeling conflicting emotions. On the one hand, we felt for this young girl who had to learn to survive on her own at such a tender age, whose heart was obliterated by the boy she loved with every fibre of her being, but Amber frustrated us in so many ways.
Amber’s secret and its eventual revelation caused us to groan at the way she handled it once it was divulged. We felt she asked way too much of Freddy, and we became frustrated when he bent to her will time and time again. Her treatment of her best friend also left us shaking our heads. Here was a girl who stood by Amber, who welcomed her back with open arms, yet Amber seemed to drop snide comments about her husband constantly. It wore a little thin with us.
But there were so many other elements to the book which we loved, and by the end, we were willing to overlook the annoyance we felt towards Amber and her actions. After all, she was young and impressionable and left to her own devices to survive, which wouldn’t have been easy.
“This love of ours wasn’t meant to be easy, Amber. I get that now. I don’t think any love is.”
Anna Bloom is a #1Click author for us and in her latest offering, she really captured the heartbreak of first love, the emotion of second chance love, and the friendliness and familiarity of smalltown living as well as the pain and happiness of recapturing those missed years.
Ebook
March 12, 2025
**Title: A Heartfelt Journey into Love – A Must-Read! 🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟**
I recently finished "Some Kind of Love" by Anna Bloom, and I am absolutely blown away! This beautifully crafted novel takes you on a profound journey through the complexities of love and relationships, showcasing Bloom's incredible talent for character development and emotional storytelling.
From the first page, I was drawn into the lives of the characters, each one vividly portrayed with relatable struggles and desires. The author has a remarkable ability to weave intricate emotions into every scene, making you feel as though you are living the story alongside them. The chemistry between the protagonists is palpable, and their journey together is both heartwarming and heartbreakingly real.
What I particularly loved about this book is its exploration of the different forms love can take – from romantic to platonic, familial to self-love. Bloom captures the essence of what it means to truly connect with others, while also emphasizing the importance of understanding oneself. The writing is poignant and lyrical, with moments that will have you laughing one minute and reaching for the tissues the next.
The pacing is spot-on, and the plot twists are expertly woven into the narrative, keeping me captivated until the very last page. This is a story that will linger in your heart and mind long after you’ve finished reading.
If you're looking for a beautifully written, emotionally resonant love story, look no further than "Some Kind of Love." Anna Bloom has created a masterpiece that deserves all five stars and more. I can't wait to see what she comes up with next!
I recently finished "Some Kind of Love" by Anna Bloom, and I am absolutely blown away! This beautifully crafted novel takes you on a profound journey through the complexities of love and relationships, showcasing Bloom's incredible talent for character development and emotional storytelling.
From the first page, I was drawn into the lives of the characters, each one vividly portrayed with relatable struggles and desires. The author has a remarkable ability to weave intricate emotions into every scene, making you feel as though you are living the story alongside them. The chemistry between the protagonists is palpable, and their journey together is both heartwarming and heartbreakingly real.
What I particularly loved about this book is its exploration of the different forms love can take – from romantic to platonic, familial to self-love. Bloom captures the essence of what it means to truly connect with others, while also emphasizing the importance of understanding oneself. The writing is poignant and lyrical, with moments that will have you laughing one minute and reaching for the tissues the next.
The pacing is spot-on, and the plot twists are expertly woven into the narrative, keeping me captivated until the very last page. This is a story that will linger in your heart and mind long after you’ve finished reading.
If you're looking for a beautifully written, emotionally resonant love story, look no further than "Some Kind of Love." Anna Bloom has created a masterpiece that deserves all five stars and more. I can't wait to see what she comes up with next!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
September 4, 2025
A very emotional book. If you're just looking for a happy little read or a spicy little read I wouldn't recommend, but if you're looking for something more involved then it might be your cup of tea.
The book does some present, some past and then some present again. The flashbacks are all grouped together so there's no confusedly jumping between times.
Amber was in a high school sweetheart romance, then became a single teenaged mum who had cut contact with her entire support network and then enter into an unfulfilling marriage before eventually making her way back to her home town to care for her mother who is suffering with dementia.
There's a lot of regret in the book, and a lot of missed chances for the characters. Some characters seem to forgive insanely easily, some hold grudges, some (looking at you Henry) were consistent dickheads the entire book.
I'm not sure enjoyable is the correct word for the reading experience, given the contents, and I would warn people that there are some upsetting elements in there - car crashes, comas, dealing with dementia, death. But I think it was handled in a sensitive way, for the most part. But all in all it was a good read, and it was engaging
The book does some present, some past and then some present again. The flashbacks are all grouped together so there's no confusedly jumping between times.
Amber was in a high school sweetheart romance, then became a single teenaged mum who had cut contact with her entire support network and then enter into an unfulfilling marriage before eventually making her way back to her home town to care for her mother who is suffering with dementia.
There's a lot of regret in the book, and a lot of missed chances for the characters. Some characters seem to forgive insanely easily, some hold grudges, some (looking at you Henry) were consistent dickheads the entire book.
I'm not sure enjoyable is the correct word for the reading experience, given the contents, and I would warn people that there are some upsetting elements in there - car crashes, comas, dealing with dementia, death. But I think it was handled in a sensitive way, for the most part. But all in all it was a good read, and it was engaging
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 11, 2024
Enh. It was fine. Nothing wrong with it. Nothing special either.
Actually, there was something wrong with it. The heroine was unlikable and the author did no effort to help us like her. UGH!
I love rom-coms, romance novels, and love stories. So I read a lot of them. This is great fun for me, but it means that my personal "market" is oversaturated. It will take a truly great romance to get more than three stars. In case you are interested:
Relyn's personal rom-com & romance novel rating system
5 stars - This book is excellent. It stands out from the hundreds of other love stories I've read, and I loved it.
4 stars - Oh, I really, really liked this one.
3 stars - This was a good, entertaining book and I'm glad I read it.
2 stars - Meh - boring, or overdone, or in some other way just not a good fit for me
1 star - This one stunk.
Actually, there was something wrong with it. The heroine was unlikable and the author did no effort to help us like her. UGH!
I love rom-coms, romance novels, and love stories. So I read a lot of them. This is great fun for me, but it means that my personal "market" is oversaturated. It will take a truly great romance to get more than three stars. In case you are interested:
Relyn's personal rom-com & romance novel rating system
5 stars - This book is excellent. It stands out from the hundreds of other love stories I've read, and I loved it.
4 stars - Oh, I really, really liked this one.
3 stars - This was a good, entertaining book and I'm glad I read it.
2 stars - Meh - boring, or overdone, or in some other way just not a good fit for me
1 star - This one stunk.
November 12, 2025
This is the last time I get sucked in by a tiktok promo for a book. I got hooked by an angsty snippet, and then I read the book, and what a disappointment.
The h is utterly unlikeable, and the author doesn't even do anything for you to like her at all. She acts like a bubbling idiot from the very moment she and the H officially meets and continues to do that until they meet again 10 years later after he broke up with her because he thought falling inlove with her was too easy (doesn't help that her mom didn't like him and probably had something to do with his decision to break up with her) and then you have her running away (becauseshe felt embarrassedthat he broke up with her and couldn't face him or the town)and falling pregnant just to return and tell the H the son can never know that he is his dad because her ex husband is a father to him already mind you the son actually knows that her ex isn't his biological dad. So please explain to me why this man can't have a say in his sons life ?
H pissed me the fuck off because tell me why you broke up with her and the she returns and you immediately want her back knowing she's married (h made him believe she was still married) then you decided to tell her you don't care that she's married and then proceed to kiss her.
also, while the h's mother was despicable and treated her horrible, and she later came back to take care of her mother, who has dementia. Why would you leave someone with this illness for longer periods of time so you can live your best life for the H? Knowing its unsafe for them and then causing her death ultimately because you were negligent.
The h constantly forgets about everything when she is in a relationship with the H. It's like she loses braincells when he is around because omg his so hot.
Both of them were shitting f*cking people and honestly deserve each other.
The h is utterly unlikeable, and the author doesn't even do anything for you to like her at all. She acts like a bubbling idiot from the very moment she and the H officially meets and continues to do that until they meet again 10 years later after he broke up with her because he thought falling inlove with her was too easy (doesn't help that her mom didn't like him and probably had something to do with his decision to break up with her) and then you have her running away (becauseshe felt embarrassedthat he broke up with her and couldn't face him or the town)and falling pregnant just to return and tell the H the son can never know that he is his dad because her ex husband is a father to him already mind you the son actually knows that her ex isn't his biological dad. So please explain to me why this man can't have a say in his sons life ?
H pissed me the fuck off because tell me why you broke up with her and the she returns and you immediately want her back knowing she's married (h made him believe she was still married) then you decided to tell her you don't care that she's married and then proceed to kiss her.
also, while the h's mother was despicable and treated her horrible, and she later came back to take care of her mother, who has dementia. Why would you leave someone with this illness for longer periods of time so you can live your best life for the H? Knowing its unsafe for them and then causing her death ultimately because you were negligent.
The h constantly forgets about everything when she is in a relationship with the H. It's like she loses braincells when he is around because omg his so hot.
Both of them were shitting f*cking people and honestly deserve each other.
April 4, 2024
The characters in this book are so immature that they make my moody hormonal teenager look like an angel sent from the Lord himself .
June 30, 2022
There are some authors you just have to read, Anna Bloom is one of mine. I just love her writing and characters. Her characters are real, and flawed, and draw you in along with the storylines.
Some Kind of Love is a second-chance romance. It has lots of feels in it ❤️.
The story fluctuates from the present to throwbacks to Amber at 18 and Freddy at 20, and it took me right back to falling in love, yep teenage love vibes.
I loved the teenage love, but the grown-up passion and pull of Freddy and Amber was even better.
Life has ups and downs and issues that need dealing with like a husband you've separated from and don't love, an uprooted son, and a parent with dementia.
I was rooting for these two, Freddy was so caring, patient, and sexy, with a touch of bad boy. Basically a dreamboat of a book boyfriend.
The ending of the book was perfect, then there was an epilogue and the ending of that made my heart swell and smile too!
5 stars.
Some Kind of Love is a second-chance romance. It has lots of feels in it ❤️.
The story fluctuates from the present to throwbacks to Amber at 18 and Freddy at 20, and it took me right back to falling in love, yep teenage love vibes.
I loved the teenage love, but the grown-up passion and pull of Freddy and Amber was even better.
Life has ups and downs and issues that need dealing with like a husband you've separated from and don't love, an uprooted son, and a parent with dementia.
I was rooting for these two, Freddy was so caring, patient, and sexy, with a touch of bad boy. Basically a dreamboat of a book boyfriend.
The ending of the book was perfect, then there was an epilogue and the ending of that made my heart swell and smile too!
5 stars.
June 26, 2022
Some Kind of Love is a wonderful second chance romance story which brought out all the emotions in me.
Anna Bloom always writes the most incredible leading men, and Freddy Bale is up there with my favourites. There is nothing I didn’t love about him. He always puts others before himself but sometimes even the best of intentions can lead to devastating consequences. My heart broke for him and Amber when they both made decisions that with maturity and hindsight could have prevented many years of unhappiness and heartache for them both.
Amber goes through so much during this narrative, and like Freddy, I wish she had made different choices. Her story shows the importance of communication and understanding. Her journey is one that will hurt your heart at times, but there are also some fabulous heart-warming scenes that will make you smile too.
This is a story about love, loss, heartache, secrets, friendships, families and misunderstandings. I love the twists in this narrative - there’s nothing I enjoy more than anticipating a story to go down one path for it only to take an unexpected turn. I love the connection and chemistry between Freddy and Amber. They truly are soul mates. I only wish that their history had followed a different journey.
Amber’s story is beautifully told using her own POV and periodically goes from past to present times. This gave me a greater understanding of what she was going through and how the decisions made when both she and Freddy were young, altered the path that they were expecting to follow. Anna Bloom enables us to deduce Freddy’s feelings and reasons perfectly throughout the book too.
I highly recommend Some Kind of Love to you to read. I adore the Bale family, and I hope that one day the author will consider writing other family member’s stories.
5 stars.
Anna Bloom always writes the most incredible leading men, and Freddy Bale is up there with my favourites. There is nothing I didn’t love about him. He always puts others before himself but sometimes even the best of intentions can lead to devastating consequences. My heart broke for him and Amber when they both made decisions that with maturity and hindsight could have prevented many years of unhappiness and heartache for them both.
Amber goes through so much during this narrative, and like Freddy, I wish she had made different choices. Her story shows the importance of communication and understanding. Her journey is one that will hurt your heart at times, but there are also some fabulous heart-warming scenes that will make you smile too.
This is a story about love, loss, heartache, secrets, friendships, families and misunderstandings. I love the twists in this narrative - there’s nothing I enjoy more than anticipating a story to go down one path for it only to take an unexpected turn. I love the connection and chemistry between Freddy and Amber. They truly are soul mates. I only wish that their history had followed a different journey.
Amber’s story is beautifully told using her own POV and periodically goes from past to present times. This gave me a greater understanding of what she was going through and how the decisions made when both she and Freddy were young, altered the path that they were expecting to follow. Anna Bloom enables us to deduce Freddy’s feelings and reasons perfectly throughout the book too.
I highly recommend Some Kind of Love to you to read. I adore the Bale family, and I hope that one day the author will consider writing other family member’s stories.
5 stars.
June 22, 2022
I adore Freddy Bale. I adored him the first time I met him in This Love and I love him even more in this rewrite. He is just that simple reminder of how much true love can keep a hold on a person.
It's been 10 years. 10 years of hurt, pain, and anger. 10 years of lost time. There is so much holding Amber back. Yet Freddy doesn't care. He can't stay away. 5 minutes after it's known that Amber is back in town Freddy is at her door. No matter how many times she closes the door in his face, no matter how many times she says "just friends" nothing will stop this man from loving her. They both made mistakes. Stupid youthful mistakes. Mistakes we all might make. But in the end love prevails.
I'll be honest and say Amber drove me insane. It bothered me how she let Elliot manipulate her. I feel bad for him but it seriously irritated me how they couldn't be adults and work their divorce out. Her constant belief that her and Freddy could never be was another thing that bothered me. Stuff keeps happening because you won't let the good in! It also bothered me that she refused to tell anyone who Isaac's father was and that she wouldn't tell Issac the truth. He deserved to know.
Of course Freddy can do no wrong in my opinion.... kidding. He made me mad when he broke up with her. Seriously?! She was by your side the entire time you were in the hospital. You get out and push her away?! I don't blame her for leaving! But he redeemed himself... and kept redeeming himself. I love Freddy Bale.
This story was everything I hoped it would be and more. It was full of love and hope. I couldn't ask for more.
*I voluntarily read an advanced copy of this book for my honest and unbiased review*
It's been 10 years. 10 years of hurt, pain, and anger. 10 years of lost time. There is so much holding Amber back. Yet Freddy doesn't care. He can't stay away. 5 minutes after it's known that Amber is back in town Freddy is at her door. No matter how many times she closes the door in his face, no matter how many times she says "just friends" nothing will stop this man from loving her. They both made mistakes. Stupid youthful mistakes. Mistakes we all might make. But in the end love prevails.
I'll be honest and say Amber drove me insane. It bothered me how she let Elliot manipulate her. I feel bad for him but it seriously irritated me how they couldn't be adults and work their divorce out. Her constant belief that her and Freddy could never be was another thing that bothered me. Stuff keeps happening because you won't let the good in! It also bothered me that she refused to tell anyone who Isaac's father was and that she wouldn't tell Issac the truth. He deserved to know.
Of course Freddy can do no wrong in my opinion.... kidding. He made me mad when he broke up with her. Seriously?! She was by your side the entire time you were in the hospital. You get out and push her away?! I don't blame her for leaving! But he redeemed himself... and kept redeeming himself. I love Freddy Bale.
This story was everything I hoped it would be and more. It was full of love and hope. I couldn't ask for more.
*I voluntarily read an advanced copy of this book for my honest and unbiased review*
May 18, 2024
I knew this author was not my cup of tea from the beggining but wanted to give this book a try because of what? Freaking tiktok. Big mistake because I ended up frustrated with our FMC. I understand the science of making an imperfect MC, male or female. We are supposed to see them grow and improve as people during the story.
Our girl wasn't that at all. Here's the list:
- Couldn't stop making herself look dumb in public. From being incapable of forming sentient words to straight up falling all the time to going outside in her pijamas. With this ish she doesn't look quircky or innocent, she just looks like a damn fool.
- Except for the initial breakup (thank god for that one), she has zero self respect. There is a freaking list of this, but some examples: she can't stop checking the dude out in public in an apparently obvious way (girl at least be effing discreet), makes out with the MMC the second or third time they see each other after she comes back (they have exchanged barely two sentences but she already has heart eyes like a cartoon character, but she hates him, sure Jan), right before or after they make out (don't remember) he tells her that he doesn't mind that she is married (what?!) and she eats it up.
- Makes really dumb or selfish decissions during the book in general and she really doesn't have to answer for them.
I saw this in another review and my fellow reviewer was spot on. The flashbacks are put in places where they mess with the pace of the book. Pivotal scene happen, ends abruptly, flashback is inserted, the pivotal scene has passed and our girl is messing up somewhere else, rinse, repeat.
And by the way, Freddy is a moron and the kid is really unlikeable.
Wasn't enjoyable in general...
Our girl wasn't that at all. Here's the list:
- Couldn't stop making herself look dumb in public. From being incapable of forming sentient words to straight up falling all the time to going outside in her pijamas. With this ish she doesn't look quircky or innocent, she just looks like a damn fool.
- Except for the initial breakup (thank god for that one), she has zero self respect. There is a freaking list of this, but some examples: she can't stop checking the dude out in public in an apparently obvious way (girl at least be effing discreet), makes out with the MMC the second or third time they see each other after she comes back (they have exchanged barely two sentences but she already has heart eyes like a cartoon character, but she hates him, sure Jan), right before or after they make out (don't remember) he tells her that he doesn't mind that she is married (what?!) and she eats it up.
- Makes really dumb or selfish decissions during the book in general and she really doesn't have to answer for them.
I saw this in another review and my fellow reviewer was spot on. The flashbacks are put in places where they mess with the pace of the book. Pivotal scene happen, ends abruptly, flashback is inserted, the pivotal scene has passed and our girl is messing up somewhere else, rinse, repeat.
And by the way, Freddy is a moron and the kid is really unlikeable.
Wasn't enjoyable in general...
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 2, 2022
Some Kind Of Love By Anna Bloom is a sweet second chance romance. This is an improved and updated rewrite of This Love, the tale of Freddy Bale and Amber French. The author takes us from young love to adult desire. It is a journey filled with misunderstandings and secrets kept over the years. Can they resolve all the issues they now face and have the future together that they should have originally had or will their mistakes and regrets overshadow their love for each other.
"Life is never easy and love is even harder."
This couple originally meet as teenagers and it is a real case of love at first sight for both of them.
However, even being soul mates doesn’t guarantee an easy path to a HEA. Their story starts with the most intense teenage love, a true love that is pushed to the limits by a unexpected event. This results in them making some heartbreaking decisions which leads to them both suffering years of unhappiness. Then we fast forward ten years when circumstances change and Amber finds herself back home to help look after her mother. She tries to avoid Freddy but he has other ideas about that!
His love for Amber never went away and he always regretted his decisions back then. At the time he was positive he was doing what he did for all the right reasons and didn’t fully consider the repercussions. Now he has a second chance there is no way he is letting her go again. All his life he has done what he thinks is best for everyone else and finally realises it is time for what he wants.
Can they put the past behind them especially when Freddy finds out what has kept her away all these years. I didn’t always agree with the choices Amber made and felt cross she didn’t always consider other peoples feelings. Lack of communication and repairing the damage of the secrets and lies she’s told is a big problem, but I did sympathise with her over some of the reasons she did what she did. Her love for her son Isaac really stood out and he was an adorable little boy.
Having their story told in both the past and the present, definitely helps to understand what went on and how what happened still affects them as adults. The love they have for each other was never in question, it was just what they had to go through to get the HEA they should have always had. Freddy will break your heart but luckily he puts it back together with his thoughtful and considerate ways. I loved how determined he was to show Amber that his love will prevail over the hurt, anger and remorse they are both feeling.
Having had experience with Dementia, I thought Anna portrayed the problems associated with caring for someone affected by this terrible disease, in a very realistic way and showed great empathy. The ending and epilogue bring this couple’s story to a lovely conclusion and left me feeling really happy for them both. Their path to happiness isn’t an easy one but I recommend you accompany them on it, as you will find it full of love and hope.
Merged review:
Some Kind Of Love By Anna Bloom is a sweet second chance romance. This is an improved and updated rewrite of This Love, the tale of Freddy Bale and Amber French. The author takes us from young love to adult desire. It is a journey filled with misunderstandings and secrets kept over the years. Can they resolve all the issues they now face and have the future together that they should have originally had or will their mistakes and regrets overshadow their love for each other. "Life is never easy and love is even harder."
This couple originally meet as teenagers and it is a real case of love at first sight for both of them.
However, even being soul mates doesn’t guarantee an easy path to a HEA. Their story starts with the most intense teenage love, a true love that is pushed to the limits by a unexpected event. This results in them making some heartbreaking decisions which leads to them both suffering years of unhappiness. Then we fast forward ten years when circumstances change and Amber finds herself back home to help look after her mother. She tries to avoid Freddy but he has other ideas about that!
His love for Amber never went away and he always regretted his decisions back then. At the time he was positive he was doing what he did for all the right reasons and didn’t fully consider the repercussions. Now he has a second chance there is no way he is letting her go again. All his life he has done what he thinks is best for everyone else and finally realises it is time for what he wants.
Can they put the past behind them especially when Freddy finds out what has kept her away all these years. I didn’t always agree with the choices Amber made and felt cross she didn’t always consider other peoples feelings. Lack of communication and repairing the damage of the secrets and lies she’s told is a big problem, but I did sympathise with her over some of the reasons she did what she did. Her love for her son Isaac really stood out and he was an adorable little boy.
Having their story told in both the past and the present, definitely helps to understand what went on and how what happened still affects them as adults. The love they have for each other was never in question, it was just what they had to go through to get the HEA they should have always had. Freddy will break your heart but luckily he puts it back together with his thoughtful and considerate ways. I loved how determined he was to show Amber that his love will prevail over the hurt, anger and remorse they are both feeling. Having had experience with Dementia, I thought Anna portrayed the problems associated with caring for someone affected by this terrible disease, in a very realistic way and showed great empathy. The ending and epilogue bring this couple’s story to a lovely conclusion and left me feeling really happy for them both. Their path to happiness isn’t an easy one but I recommend you accompany them on it, as you will find it full of love and hope.
"Life is never easy and love is even harder."
This couple originally meet as teenagers and it is a real case of love at first sight for both of them.
However, even being soul mates doesn’t guarantee an easy path to a HEA. Their story starts with the most intense teenage love, a true love that is pushed to the limits by a unexpected event. This results in them making some heartbreaking decisions which leads to them both suffering years of unhappiness. Then we fast forward ten years when circumstances change and Amber finds herself back home to help look after her mother. She tries to avoid Freddy but he has other ideas about that!
His love for Amber never went away and he always regretted his decisions back then. At the time he was positive he was doing what he did for all the right reasons and didn’t fully consider the repercussions. Now he has a second chance there is no way he is letting her go again. All his life he has done what he thinks is best for everyone else and finally realises it is time for what he wants.
Can they put the past behind them especially when Freddy finds out what has kept her away all these years. I didn’t always agree with the choices Amber made and felt cross she didn’t always consider other peoples feelings. Lack of communication and repairing the damage of the secrets and lies she’s told is a big problem, but I did sympathise with her over some of the reasons she did what she did. Her love for her son Isaac really stood out and he was an adorable little boy.
Having their story told in both the past and the present, definitely helps to understand what went on and how what happened still affects them as adults. The love they have for each other was never in question, it was just what they had to go through to get the HEA they should have always had. Freddy will break your heart but luckily he puts it back together with his thoughtful and considerate ways. I loved how determined he was to show Amber that his love will prevail over the hurt, anger and remorse they are both feeling.
Having had experience with Dementia, I thought Anna portrayed the problems associated with caring for someone affected by this terrible disease, in a very realistic way and showed great empathy. The ending and epilogue bring this couple’s story to a lovely conclusion and left me feeling really happy for them both. Their path to happiness isn’t an easy one but I recommend you accompany them on it, as you will find it full of love and hope.
Merged review:
Some Kind Of Love By Anna Bloom is a sweet second chance romance. This is an improved and updated rewrite of This Love, the tale of Freddy Bale and Amber French. The author takes us from young love to adult desire. It is a journey filled with misunderstandings and secrets kept over the years. Can they resolve all the issues they now face and have the future together that they should have originally had or will their mistakes and regrets overshadow their love for each other. "Life is never easy and love is even harder."
This couple originally meet as teenagers and it is a real case of love at first sight for both of them.
However, even being soul mates doesn’t guarantee an easy path to a HEA. Their story starts with the most intense teenage love, a true love that is pushed to the limits by a unexpected event. This results in them making some heartbreaking decisions which leads to them both suffering years of unhappiness. Then we fast forward ten years when circumstances change and Amber finds herself back home to help look after her mother. She tries to avoid Freddy but he has other ideas about that!
His love for Amber never went away and he always regretted his decisions back then. At the time he was positive he was doing what he did for all the right reasons and didn’t fully consider the repercussions. Now he has a second chance there is no way he is letting her go again. All his life he has done what he thinks is best for everyone else and finally realises it is time for what he wants.
Can they put the past behind them especially when Freddy finds out what has kept her away all these years. I didn’t always agree with the choices Amber made and felt cross she didn’t always consider other peoples feelings. Lack of communication and repairing the damage of the secrets and lies she’s told is a big problem, but I did sympathise with her over some of the reasons she did what she did. Her love for her son Isaac really stood out and he was an adorable little boy.
Having their story told in both the past and the present, definitely helps to understand what went on and how what happened still affects them as adults. The love they have for each other was never in question, it was just what they had to go through to get the HEA they should have always had. Freddy will break your heart but luckily he puts it back together with his thoughtful and considerate ways. I loved how determined he was to show Amber that his love will prevail over the hurt, anger and remorse they are both feeling. Having had experience with Dementia, I thought Anna portrayed the problems associated with caring for someone affected by this terrible disease, in a very realistic way and showed great empathy. The ending and epilogue bring this couple’s story to a lovely conclusion and left me feeling really happy for them both. Their path to happiness isn’t an easy one but I recommend you accompany them on it, as you will find it full of love and hope.
June 26, 2022
WOW.....amazing, it is so much and more, Anna always seems to tear my heart out and then put it back, there is so much feeling and so many emotions in this book, I loved the story and fell in love with Freddy.
After Amber breaking down she heads into Bale and Son's mechanics to get help, this is where she meets Freddy Bale, and falls head over heals in love with him, and they start a romance, then Freddy has a crash while racing and Amber is by his side as much as she can to help him recover, to learn to walk again, but on graduation night he tells her he needs space, so she doe the only thing she can think of and that is to run!
Ten years later Amber has to return home to look after her mum, bringing her soon Isaac with her, who is Freddy's son but neither of them know it. After seeing her best friend Dani again it isn't long till Freddy is knocking on the door, wanting to put the past behind them, telling her that he never stopped loving her, Amber is hesitant after what she did and the lies she has told to both Freddy and Isaac, but as the days and weeks go by she remembers more and more of what life was like, and looking forward to the journey ahead.
This story at the start goes back between then and now, filling in all the details of what happened before and what they are feeling now.
After Amber breaking down she heads into Bale and Son's mechanics to get help, this is where she meets Freddy Bale, and falls head over heals in love with him, and they start a romance, then Freddy has a crash while racing and Amber is by his side as much as she can to help him recover, to learn to walk again, but on graduation night he tells her he needs space, so she doe the only thing she can think of and that is to run!
Ten years later Amber has to return home to look after her mum, bringing her soon Isaac with her, who is Freddy's son but neither of them know it. After seeing her best friend Dani again it isn't long till Freddy is knocking on the door, wanting to put the past behind them, telling her that he never stopped loving her, Amber is hesitant after what she did and the lies she has told to both Freddy and Isaac, but as the days and weeks go by she remembers more and more of what life was like, and looking forward to the journey ahead.
This story at the start goes back between then and now, filling in all the details of what happened before and what they are feeling now.
July 5, 2022
What started as a first love in high school ended abruptly when Freddy told Amber to go on to college. Broken hearted, Amber left. After ten years, she returns because her mother is in poor health. Immediately Freddy shows up searching her out. Unfortunately, Amber is married, has brought Isaac with her and does not want to see Freddy.
Opinion
I'm going to state right now that I have claimed Freddy as my book boyfriend first. All the rest of you can go find someone else. He is quite a catch with how his world revolves around his lady (Amber.)
Amber, on the other hand, is free to let my book boyfriend go. Her character is great, I'd just rather step in.
The story is all about misunderstandings and how the characters work through them. I'm sure we all have some in our lives and we could take a page from them and try to work them out.
Many thanks to Bare Naked Words for providing me with an ARC of this book.
Opinion
I'm going to state right now that I have claimed Freddy as my book boyfriend first. All the rest of you can go find someone else. He is quite a catch with how his world revolves around his lady (Amber.)
Amber, on the other hand, is free to let my book boyfriend go. Her character is great, I'd just rather step in.
The story is all about misunderstandings and how the characters work through them. I'm sure we all have some in our lives and we could take a page from them and try to work them out.
Many thanks to Bare Naked Words for providing me with an ARC of this book.
June 3, 2025
This book put me through the ringer, but in the best way! The characters are flawed, in the best way, which makes them so much more relatable. I personally didn't like the back-and-forth time jumps between the past and present as it just irritated me. I would have much rather all of the past with a time jump into the present, but I can see why, to some extent, the author chose to do that. I just didn't like it as much and was very happy when I got to the part of the book that was back and stayed in the present. Even with that, I loved this book! It made me feel joy, sadness, heartbreak, shock, excitement, and most of love. I laughed, giggled, cried tears of heartbreak and sadness, vented my frustration and anger, and cried tears of joy and happiness! If you want a book that has depth and makes you feel; this is 100% the book for you! This is a book about second chances and love of family, friends, and that special someone who just makes you whole again!
August 16, 2024
Be so for real about this one.
Immediately judging every one who gave this 4-5 stars lmao.
I haven’t even gotten 25% in and I’m already annoyed and not finishing this.
Firstly, the main female character. Wtf kind of 28 year old acts and speaks like this???
Also, I don’t mind 2nd chance romance w/ a secret baby if it makes sense but like…. This is just stupidity at its finest. And the whole story line …. Like WHAT DO YOU MEAN, SHES 28 AND STILL HUNG UP ON HER BF FROM 17 LMAAAOOOOOO and she can’t even talk or function around him when she’s a whole grown woman ??? Like is she actually not all there? Who tf knows and cares. I’m annoyed I wasted time starting this so just gonna delete it and move on. Ugh.
Immediately judging every one who gave this 4-5 stars lmao.
I haven’t even gotten 25% in and I’m already annoyed and not finishing this.
Firstly, the main female character. Wtf kind of 28 year old acts and speaks like this???
Also, I don’t mind 2nd chance romance w/ a secret baby if it makes sense but like…. This is just stupidity at its finest. And the whole story line …. Like WHAT DO YOU MEAN, SHES 28 AND STILL HUNG UP ON HER BF FROM 17 LMAAAOOOOOO and she can’t even talk or function around him when she’s a whole grown woman ??? Like is she actually not all there? Who tf knows and cares. I’m annoyed I wasted time starting this so just gonna delete it and move on. Ugh.
December 29, 2024
what a love story
This was a Beautiful, tear jerking, heartfelt read! It’s been a long time since I fell in love with a second chance romance. This one is top notch. A first love , that grips you and comes to burning halt full of misunderstandings. I am a huge notebook love story girl and this was beautiful. The male lead is perfect maybe a little too perfect. Anyway he’s a green flag. And he’s never stopped loving Amber. Amber is hiding a huge secret that’s instantly revealed. It’s a nice surprise that the secret didn’t have big blow up consequences, hence Mr green flag. This was low angst. But it was a yearning love. I loved it, devoured it in one day, Bloom is a new author to me, I can’t wait to read more of her.
This was a Beautiful, tear jerking, heartfelt read! It’s been a long time since I fell in love with a second chance romance. This one is top notch. A first love , that grips you and comes to burning halt full of misunderstandings. I am a huge notebook love story girl and this was beautiful. The male lead is perfect maybe a little too perfect. Anyway he’s a green flag. And he’s never stopped loving Amber. Amber is hiding a huge secret that’s instantly revealed. It’s a nice surprise that the secret didn’t have big blow up consequences, hence Mr green flag. This was low angst. But it was a yearning love. I loved it, devoured it in one day, Bloom is a new author to me, I can’t wait to read more of her.
July 1, 2022
I loved this story! Freddy and amber have a love that is easy, they both fall hard, but then life pushes them a part and amber runs.
10 years later she returns to love after her mum and try as she might she can’t stop all things Freddy.
Gah! I understand why it happened, I understand it had to happen BUT why did Anna bloom have to break my heart the way she did!
Everyone wants a love like Freddy and amber, and some are lucky enough to find it young. Freddy is every bit of man but with real emotions and amber is every bit of woman but with thoughts that make her think she did everything wrong.
I loved it, it was perfect.
10 years later she returns to love after her mum and try as she might she can’t stop all things Freddy.
Gah! I understand why it happened, I understand it had to happen BUT why did Anna bloom have to break my heart the way she did!
Everyone wants a love like Freddy and amber, and some are lucky enough to find it young. Freddy is every bit of man but with real emotions and amber is every bit of woman but with thoughts that make her think she did everything wrong.
I loved it, it was perfect.
July 2, 2022
This is a Second Chance Romance and it is Amber and Freddy's story and omg it is definitely a must read. Wow Wow Wow this book takes you on a roller coaster ride of emotions and it breaks you apart and then put you back together but not before Amber and Freddy have to go through all the ups and downs, secrets, anger, mistakes, pain, lies, regrets and trust issue's but I still couldn't put this book down and had to keep turning the pages to see what the outcome would be and what an ending it was. Anna Bloom is an amazing author and writer and I can't wait to read more of her book's.
I Voluntarily Reviewed a Copy of This Book.
I Voluntarily Reviewed a Copy of This Book.
July 15, 2022
Freddy Bale made an absolutely wonderful book boyfriend. Second chance romance is so much fun and steamy.
What did I like? Freddy and Amber were just plain meant to be. After a ten year separation it feels like no time has passed when they meet again. So many hurdles to go through to the end game but a wonderful story and a great HEA.
Would I recommend or buy? This one just sucks you in. There’s a bit of back and forth on ten years ago and now chapters which is a irritation for some. I enjoyed Freddy and Ambers story and would love to read the other Bale men too. Five stars!
I received a complimentary copy to read and voluntarily shared this opinion.
What did I like? Freddy and Amber were just plain meant to be. After a ten year separation it feels like no time has passed when they meet again. So many hurdles to go through to the end game but a wonderful story and a great HEA.
Would I recommend or buy? This one just sucks you in. There’s a bit of back and forth on ten years ago and now chapters which is a irritation for some. I enjoyed Freddy and Ambers story and would love to read the other Bale men too. Five stars!
I received a complimentary copy to read and voluntarily shared this opinion.
March 11, 2024
What a beautifully written, heartwarming story. This book took me on such a rollercoaster of emotions from cackling with laughter to sobbing and feeling like my heart was breaking. All the characters are so well written and relatable that it was easy to become invested and lost in their story. I need a Freddy Bale in my life, thats for sure!
I read this on the back end of a book hangover after seeing an advertisement for it on social media. Whilst I knew that this book would potentially shatter me, it was the perfect palette cleanser! The undeniable love story that this told was so touching.
Would definitely recommend!
I read this on the back end of a book hangover after seeing an advertisement for it on social media. Whilst I knew that this book would potentially shatter me, it was the perfect palette cleanser! The undeniable love story that this told was so touching.
Would definitely recommend!
April 27, 2024
Something was missing…
I just felt the story was missing more dialogue. The dialogue was short and very bitty, I just wanted them to have a long conversation….it started then stopped, started then stopped. It just didn’t give me much to hold onto and I missed the meaningful interactions with depth of emotions.
Dialogue brings meaning to the characters, we need to know what they are saying to each other, not just what a person is thinking.
Also what was Freddy doing in the those ten years? There was no content at all….it left me feeling a bit flat.
I just wanted more…..more dialogue, more emotion, more context.
I just felt the story was missing more dialogue. The dialogue was short and very bitty, I just wanted them to have a long conversation….it started then stopped, started then stopped. It just didn’t give me much to hold onto and I missed the meaningful interactions with depth of emotions.
Dialogue brings meaning to the characters, we need to know what they are saying to each other, not just what a person is thinking.
Also what was Freddy doing in the those ten years? There was no content at all….it left me feeling a bit flat.
I just wanted more…..more dialogue, more emotion, more context.
June 25, 2024
A second chance romance from Anna Bloom, full of misunderstandings, lost time and love.
As soon and Amber met Freddy there was an instant chemistry and soon their relationship turned into so much more but when they are torn apart Amber leaves without looking back.
Now 10 years later and Amber has no choice but to return home and back into the path of Freddy.
I was rooting for these two, Freddy was so caring, patient, and sexy, with a touch of bad boy. Basically a dreamboat of a book boyfriend.
The ending of the book was perfect, then there was an epilogue and the ending of that made my heart swell and smile too!
As soon and Amber met Freddy there was an instant chemistry and soon their relationship turned into so much more but when they are torn apart Amber leaves without looking back.
Now 10 years later and Amber has no choice but to return home and back into the path of Freddy.
I was rooting for these two, Freddy was so caring, patient, and sexy, with a touch of bad boy. Basically a dreamboat of a book boyfriend.
The ending of the book was perfect, then there was an epilogue and the ending of that made my heart swell and smile too!
October 22, 2025
Read on Kindle Unlimited
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Wow — this story truly tugs at the heartstrings. Amber returns to the small town she once fled and to the one man she never forgot, Freddy Bale. But between them lie a decade of pain, secrets, and the unexpected reality that Amber’s heart belongs to someone else. 
Amber and Freddy’s reconnection is slow and emotional, filled with regret, hope, and the possibility of a love that never really died. The past-and-present structure deepens their journey and lets us feel not just what they lost, but what they might still salvage. 
What I loved: the raw honesty, the second-chance romance, the way the secrets don’t just vanish but must be faced. Freddy is the kind of hero you root for, patient and true. Amber is flawed, human—and her journey hit me hard. I laughed, I cried, I held my breath.
If you’re looking for a romance that’s more than surface-sweet, one with emotional depth and characters worth rooting for, this is a gem. Highly recommend.
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Wow — this story truly tugs at the heartstrings. Amber returns to the small town she once fled and to the one man she never forgot, Freddy Bale. But between them lie a decade of pain, secrets, and the unexpected reality that Amber’s heart belongs to someone else. 
Amber and Freddy’s reconnection is slow and emotional, filled with regret, hope, and the possibility of a love that never really died. The past-and-present structure deepens their journey and lets us feel not just what they lost, but what they might still salvage. 
What I loved: the raw honesty, the second-chance romance, the way the secrets don’t just vanish but must be faced. Freddy is the kind of hero you root for, patient and true. Amber is flawed, human—and her journey hit me hard. I laughed, I cried, I held my breath.
If you’re looking for a romance that’s more than surface-sweet, one with emotional depth and characters worth rooting for, this is a gem. Highly recommend.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
June 26, 2022
A five-star read that you will hate to love. This has it all, and so much more, there is passion and romance and love, but there is hurt and heartbreak, and characters like Amber who you will adore, but on the flip, she will drive you insane with the need to tell her to wake up and smell the roses. This author has done a fantastic job at pulling you in and making you care about the characters, care so deep you feel their pain and confusion. This is a great story and one you need to read to get the whole thing, as there are so many sides and points that I can’t do it justice.
July 8, 2022
A second chance romance from Anna Bloom, full of misunderstandings, lost time and love.
As soon and Amber met Freddy there was an instant chemistry and soon their relationship turned into so much more but when they are torn apart Amber leaves without looking back.
Now 10 years later and Amber has no choice but to return home and back into the path of Freddy.
The love these two shared never went away but how will they react when they see each other again and they finally get to be honest with each other.
A great story that I would highly recommend.
As soon and Amber met Freddy there was an instant chemistry and soon their relationship turned into so much more but when they are torn apart Amber leaves without looking back.
Now 10 years later and Amber has no choice but to return home and back into the path of Freddy.
The love these two shared never went away but how will they react when they see each other again and they finally get to be honest with each other.
A great story that I would highly recommend.
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