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What We Could Have Been
In this richly imagined novel, perfect for fans of Kristin Hannah and Taylor Jenkins Reid, a terrible betrayal triggers a feud that casts its shadow over the fates of two families in a small Florida fishing community. When a hunt for the truth rekindles a forbidden alliance, these families must choose to unearth more deception or finally claim redemption.
Bluebelle Shea and Enzo Castellari are hardly more than children when they fall in love, despite the objections of their families, who have been at war for years. They don’t know the reason for the brutal rift, but nothing matters except the way they feel. Their hopeful plan for the future is shattered the night Blue’s mother drowns—and her father is arrested for murder.
Ten years later, fleeing a disastrous marriage, Blue returns to Bliss with her young son, Murphy. As she settles into the community once more, chance throws her together with Enzo, and she is startled by the rekindled attraction he stirs inside her.
Drawn together time and again, Blue and Enzo try to untangle years of conflicting emotions and bittersweet memories. When a frightening crisis strikes, Enzo doesn’t hesitate to come to Blue’s aid. Resolved to put the past behind them, they fight to learn not only what really happened the night Blue’s mother died, but the truth behind the destructive clash between their families.
At its heart, What We Could Have Been explores the bonds between families, friends, and lovers, and poignantly illustrates the ways we can heal after betrayal. Suffused with detail and sentiment, this is a novel that will resonate with anyone who has ever fought for their own happy ending.
Bluebelle Shea and Enzo Castellari are hardly more than children when they fall in love, despite the objections of their families, who have been at war for years. They don’t know the reason for the brutal rift, but nothing matters except the way they feel. Their hopeful plan for the future is shattered the night Blue’s mother drowns—and her father is arrested for murder.
Ten years later, fleeing a disastrous marriage, Blue returns to Bliss with her young son, Murphy. As she settles into the community once more, chance throws her together with Enzo, and she is startled by the rekindled attraction he stirs inside her.
Drawn together time and again, Blue and Enzo try to untangle years of conflicting emotions and bittersweet memories. When a frightening crisis strikes, Enzo doesn’t hesitate to come to Blue’s aid. Resolved to put the past behind them, they fight to learn not only what really happened the night Blue’s mother died, but the truth behind the destructive clash between their families.
At its heart, What We Could Have Been explores the bonds between families, friends, and lovers, and poignantly illustrates the ways we can heal after betrayal. Suffused with detail and sentiment, this is a novel that will resonate with anyone who has ever fought for their own happy ending.
330 pages, Kindle Edition
First published January 1, 2023
27 people are currently reading
13369 people want to read
About the author
Jess Sinclair
1 book207 followersJess Sinclair writes award winning book club and women's fiction with relatable, everywoman characters. Her stories are an emotional rollercoaster ride centered around friends and family, romance, heartache, intrigue, and, ultimately, growth. Told with honesty and grit in Jess's own unique, lyrical style, her books make readers laugh and cry, sometimes simultaneously.
Jess splits her time between Michigan and Florida's Gulf Coast, lives with her husband Joe, and has three children. She is also the Edgar nominated mystery author, Tracy Gardner.
Jess splits her time between Michigan and Florida's Gulf Coast, lives with her husband Joe, and has three children. She is also the Edgar nominated mystery author, Tracy Gardner.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 175 reviews
July 11, 2023
“You are the entire ocean in a drop.”
This is a fantastic book centered around endearing characters who are fighting for a happy ending.
It’s wonderfully addictive and emotional and tells of a 27-year-old, Bluebell Shea, returning to Bliss, a small Florida fishing town after she fled as a teen 10 years ago. She left with no warning, a week into her senior year of high school and has had no contact with her family, friends, or boyfriend she left behind.
There are several reasons she’s returning home, but I don’t want to ruin anything for readers. I was addicted to Sinclair’s exploration of family and neighbourhood drama and needed to discover if Blue’s search for the truth provided an opportunity for redemption and if she was able to repair any of the broken relationships she left in her wake.
I really loved the characters in this book and felt a strong connection to them all … even the nasty ones! The warning about the danger of being oblivious to the disparity between how we see ourselves and how others see us was poignant. I appreciated the message about the effects of the struggle to be someone others think you should be rather than living authentically.
This is Jess’s debut novel under this pen name. She has written cozy mysteries under the name Tracy Gardner. I’m really impressed with this women’s fiction debut and will definitely be on the lookout for future titles under this name. Congratulations on a terrific debut and wonderful cover!
I was gifted this copy by Alcove Press and NetGalley and was under no obligation to provide a review
This is a fantastic book centered around endearing characters who are fighting for a happy ending.
It’s wonderfully addictive and emotional and tells of a 27-year-old, Bluebell Shea, returning to Bliss, a small Florida fishing town after she fled as a teen 10 years ago. She left with no warning, a week into her senior year of high school and has had no contact with her family, friends, or boyfriend she left behind.
There are several reasons she’s returning home, but I don’t want to ruin anything for readers. I was addicted to Sinclair’s exploration of family and neighbourhood drama and needed to discover if Blue’s search for the truth provided an opportunity for redemption and if she was able to repair any of the broken relationships she left in her wake.
I really loved the characters in this book and felt a strong connection to them all … even the nasty ones! The warning about the danger of being oblivious to the disparity between how we see ourselves and how others see us was poignant. I appreciated the message about the effects of the struggle to be someone others think you should be rather than living authentically.
This is Jess’s debut novel under this pen name. She has written cozy mysteries under the name Tracy Gardner. I’m really impressed with this women’s fiction debut and will definitely be on the lookout for future titles under this name. Congratulations on a terrific debut and wonderful cover!
I was gifted this copy by Alcove Press and NetGalley and was under no obligation to provide a review
August 30, 2023
What We Could Have Been has a little bit of everything including love, loss, friendship and mystery. Rather than bog down the story with too much going on it all flowed seamlessly and that's a credit to the writing. Given the setup it was easy to feel invested in the main character from the get go and maintain that interest as she deals with her past, present and future.
Bluebelle Shea left her hometown ten years ago, soon after her mother died. With her marriage in shambles, Bluebelle takes her young son, Murphy, and flees to the small fishing community where she grew up. Even though she's been estranged from her father for many years, he allows his daughter and grandson to move in with him. One person surprised to find out Bluebelle is in town is her childhood friend, Enzo. He hasn't been in contact with her since she left and let's just say they have plenty of history together.
Even though the story deals with some serious subjects, it's not darkness all the time. There's a nice balance of light moments so it didn't feel like such an overwhelming heavy read. (However, that's just my perspective so check out trigger warnings ahead of time if there are topics you prefer to avoid.) The drama doesn't feel manufactured and as a reader even if you haven't gone thru what some of these characters have faced, you can still relate to them on some level.
Simply put, it was a good read.
Thank you to the author, Kristyn, and Negalley for providing an advance digital copy! All thoughts expressed are my honest opinion.
Bluebelle Shea left her hometown ten years ago, soon after her mother died. With her marriage in shambles, Bluebelle takes her young son, Murphy, and flees to the small fishing community where she grew up. Even though she's been estranged from her father for many years, he allows his daughter and grandson to move in with him. One person surprised to find out Bluebelle is in town is her childhood friend, Enzo. He hasn't been in contact with her since she left and let's just say they have plenty of history together.
Even though the story deals with some serious subjects, it's not darkness all the time. There's a nice balance of light moments so it didn't feel like such an overwhelming heavy read. (However, that's just my perspective so check out trigger warnings ahead of time if there are topics you prefer to avoid.) The drama doesn't feel manufactured and as a reader even if you haven't gone thru what some of these characters have faced, you can still relate to them on some level.
Simply put, it was a good read.
Thank you to the author, Kristyn, and Negalley for providing an advance digital copy! All thoughts expressed are my honest opinion.
October 8, 2023
WHAT WE COULD HAVE BEEN is a story about love and loss. I really did like Bluebelle and Enzo and I was rooting for them the entire time. The mystery around what happened between their families was a sad one. But I'm happy Bluebelle finally got the answers she was looking for. The ending was perfection! Definitely pick up this book if you are looking for a romance to escape into for a day.
Many thanks to NetGalley and Dreamscape Media for my gifted copy.
This review will be shared to my Instagram (@coffee.break.book.reviews) in the near future.
Many thanks to NetGalley and Dreamscape Media for my gifted copy.
This review will be shared to my Instagram (@coffee.break.book.reviews) in the near future.
October 23, 2023
This book.... I fell in love with the characters that Murphy boy he's something else. The fairy garden was my favorite part of the whole story. I will be thinking about this story for a long time. I highly recommend this book.
The Mary Reader received this book from the publisher for review. A favorable review was not required, and all views expressed are our own.
The Mary Reader received this book from the publisher for review. A favorable review was not required, and all views expressed are our own.
October 11, 2023
𝗣𝗨𝗕 𝗗𝗔𝗬 𝗔𝗨𝗗𝗜𝗢𝗕𝗢𝗢𝗞 𝗥𝗘𝗩𝗜𝗘𝗪
Happy pub day to the wonderful @jesssinclair.writes 🎉
And a huge thanks to @dreamscape_media for my gifted ALC and Jess for my envelope of goodies! 💕
𝗪𝗵𝗮𝘁 𝗪𝗲 𝗖𝗼𝘂𝗹𝗱 𝗛𝗮𝘃𝗲 𝗕𝗲𝗲𝗻
𝗝𝗲𝘀𝘀 𝗦𝗶𝗻𝗰𝗹𝗮𝗶𝗿
𝟭𝟬/𝟭𝟬/𝟮𝟬𝟮𝟯
⭐⭐⭐⭐💫
✨FOLLOW ME ON BOOKSTAGRAM ✨
I chose to listen to this audiobook the second I saw Nan McNamara as the narrator. I loved her work on The Paper Palace and just knew she would bring this story to life.... she most certainly did! Debut novel What We Could Have Been is a wonderful women's fiction / romance novel set in the most charming, picturesque fishing town of Bliss, Florida. We follow Bluebelle and Enzo, childhood sweethearts who were driven apart by their rivaling families and a life-changing event that drove Blue out of town, never to return.... Until ten years later, when her marriage to an abusive man implodes and she and her son head to her aging father's home in Bliss, ready for a fresh start. Though history is never far from the surface, and as long-ago secrets bubble up, Blue and Enzo must come to terms with both their past and present.
This is the loveliest mashup of a decade-old mystery, a second-chance romance, and a heartbreaking family drama, and I enjoyed every second. I was completely swept away in the best possible way, and binged this in half a day. Jess Sinclair is an author to watch!
Happy pub day to the wonderful @jesssinclair.writes 🎉
And a huge thanks to @dreamscape_media for my gifted ALC and Jess for my envelope of goodies! 💕
𝗪𝗵𝗮𝘁 𝗪𝗲 𝗖𝗼𝘂𝗹𝗱 𝗛𝗮𝘃𝗲 𝗕𝗲𝗲𝗻
𝗝𝗲𝘀𝘀 𝗦𝗶𝗻𝗰𝗹𝗮𝗶𝗿
𝟭𝟬/𝟭𝟬/𝟮𝟬𝟮𝟯
⭐⭐⭐⭐💫
✨FOLLOW ME ON BOOKSTAGRAM ✨
I chose to listen to this audiobook the second I saw Nan McNamara as the narrator. I loved her work on The Paper Palace and just knew she would bring this story to life.... she most certainly did! Debut novel What We Could Have Been is a wonderful women's fiction / romance novel set in the most charming, picturesque fishing town of Bliss, Florida. We follow Bluebelle and Enzo, childhood sweethearts who were driven apart by their rivaling families and a life-changing event that drove Blue out of town, never to return.... Until ten years later, when her marriage to an abusive man implodes and she and her son head to her aging father's home in Bliss, ready for a fresh start. Though history is never far from the surface, and as long-ago secrets bubble up, Blue and Enzo must come to terms with both their past and present.
This is the loveliest mashup of a decade-old mystery, a second-chance romance, and a heartbreaking family drama, and I enjoyed every second. I was completely swept away in the best possible way, and binged this in half a day. Jess Sinclair is an author to watch!
May 18, 2023
Blue ran away from home at 17, after her Mothers drowning. She ends up hundreds of miles away, living with her Aunt and finding out she’s pregnant. Now 10 years later her husband leaves her, asking for a divorce, just after losing her Aunt so she returns home.
This new beginning for her and her son Murph, leaves her wondering whether or not she wants to be home or go back to her abusive relationship.
A small fishing town in Florida, beautiful sunsets, secrets from the past go full steam ahead as Blue searches for answers that ruined her life to run at 17. Two families torn apart from these secrets, denial and heartache. You will absolutely love the writing, the families, the friendships. It’s a sweet romance with drama like Lifetime movies and magical PG feels like Hallmark.
Thank you Netgally, Jess Sinclair
This new beginning for her and her son Murph, leaves her wondering whether or not she wants to be home or go back to her abusive relationship.
A small fishing town in Florida, beautiful sunsets, secrets from the past go full steam ahead as Blue searches for answers that ruined her life to run at 17. Two families torn apart from these secrets, denial and heartache. You will absolutely love the writing, the families, the friendships. It’s a sweet romance with drama like Lifetime movies and magical PG feels like Hallmark.
Thank you Netgally, Jess Sinclair
January 19, 2024
Wow what an emotional and beautiful story! I have to say, I’m really coming around to the second chance romance trope and with stories as raw as this, it’s no wonder my heart has opened up to them. This book has been recommended by so many of my book friends, and I can see why. It has everything from a story of friendship and love to loss, and every emotion.
The narration was so good and I highly recommend this format!
*many thanks to the publisher and Netgalley for the gifted copy for review
The narration was so good and I highly recommend this format!
*many thanks to the publisher and Netgalley for the gifted copy for review
August 27, 2023
Fleeing an abusive marriage, Bluebelle Shea returns to the one place she swore she’d never go again- home. But going back to her Floridian hometown has its own set of baggage. For one, there’s the estranged relationship she has with her father. And there’s the fact she’s not returning alone as her nine year old son, Murphy, will be accompanying her.
Enzo Castellari was Bluebelle’s one true love. He also happens to be the father of Murphy. But their feuding families, and one night filled with unforgivable events, tore the young lovebirds apart. Now, not only does Bluebelle have to face all that she ran away from, she also has to tell Enzo what he never knew- he’s a father.
What We Could Have Been is a moving story rooted in second chances and salvation. The early love story of Bluebelle and Enzo gave off Romeo and Juliet vibes with its forbidden familial undercurrent. But there was a surprising second layer to this novel- the mystery revolving around what really happened to destroy so many relationships all those years ago.
What We Could Have Been is a poignant reminder of the importance of redemption in the pursuit of happy endings. Big thanks to debut author, @jesssinclair.writes for providing me with a copy of this wonderful book to review.
Enzo Castellari was Bluebelle’s one true love. He also happens to be the father of Murphy. But their feuding families, and one night filled with unforgivable events, tore the young lovebirds apart. Now, not only does Bluebelle have to face all that she ran away from, she also has to tell Enzo what he never knew- he’s a father.
What We Could Have Been is a moving story rooted in second chances and salvation. The early love story of Bluebelle and Enzo gave off Romeo and Juliet vibes with its forbidden familial undercurrent. But there was a surprising second layer to this novel- the mystery revolving around what really happened to destroy so many relationships all those years ago.
What We Could Have Been is a poignant reminder of the importance of redemption in the pursuit of happy endings. Big thanks to debut author, @jesssinclair.writes for providing me with a copy of this wonderful book to review.
November 21, 2023
Actual Rating: 4.5 Stars
See the full review & more at HarlequinJunkie
From gut wrenching losses to the kind of love we dream about–one that also stood the test of time–WHAT WE COULD HAVE BEEN was an emotional novel that will surely find a special place with readers.
I’m definitely a fan of women’s fiction that layers in big emotions while exploring relationships–familial or romantic–all while being completely swept up in a poignant storyline. That, in a nutshell, was What We Could Have Been. Author Jess Sinclair did such a fantastic job with the careful way she handled the darker themes. And boy did it pull at my heartstrings! Read More
See the full review & more at HarlequinJunkie
From gut wrenching losses to the kind of love we dream about–one that also stood the test of time–WHAT WE COULD HAVE BEEN was an emotional novel that will surely find a special place with readers.
I’m definitely a fan of women’s fiction that layers in big emotions while exploring relationships–familial or romantic–all while being completely swept up in a poignant storyline. That, in a nutshell, was What We Could Have Been. Author Jess Sinclair did such a fantastic job with the careful way she handled the darker themes. And boy did it pull at my heartstrings! Read More
January 13, 2024
This was a story that pulled me in from the opening scene and didn’t let go until the end. It seamlessly blended together adolescent romance, family drama and secrets, second chance romance, and a small town mystery.
The novel starts when Bluebell Shea returns to the fishing town where she grew up before running away at age 17. Her 9 year old son is with her, and she’s in the process of getting divorced.
It will be the first time in ten years that she’s seen her widowed father. There’s someone else she hasn’t seen during that time and she’s afraid to face— her childhood sweetheart, Enzo Castellari.
The Shea’s and the Castellari’s used to be close family friends until some mysterious events happened that tore them apart and made them bitter enemies. A resulting tragedy led to Blue fleeing her hometown, leaving Enzo heartbroken and devastated.
There was a lot of warmth and tenderness to the story, while also dealing with some heavier topics like abusive relationships, adultery, and toxic families.
What We Could Have Been was really well written, and an engaging story with a very satisfying ending. The only thing I didn’t like about it was the amount of strong language in it.
Many thanks to the author for a copy.
The novel starts when Bluebell Shea returns to the fishing town where she grew up before running away at age 17. Her 9 year old son is with her, and she’s in the process of getting divorced.
It will be the first time in ten years that she’s seen her widowed father. There’s someone else she hasn’t seen during that time and she’s afraid to face— her childhood sweetheart, Enzo Castellari.
The Shea’s and the Castellari’s used to be close family friends until some mysterious events happened that tore them apart and made them bitter enemies. A resulting tragedy led to Blue fleeing her hometown, leaving Enzo heartbroken and devastated.
There was a lot of warmth and tenderness to the story, while also dealing with some heavier topics like abusive relationships, adultery, and toxic families.
What We Could Have Been was really well written, and an engaging story with a very satisfying ending. The only thing I didn’t like about it was the amount of strong language in it.
Many thanks to the author for a copy.
October 7, 2023
I won this book in a giveaway the author ran. I was very excited to read it. I started reading it last night and I couldn’t put it down. I loved the characters especially the MCs, Blue and Enzo, and also Mitch, Murphy and their pets. This was a book where even though I knew little about the career of commercial fishing, it drew me in and I wanted to know more. The hint of Irish folklore was also a pleasant addition. It reminded me of my grandparents so it warmed my heart.
April 30, 2024
This book made me want to keep reading. I enjoyed it very much
June 2, 2023
Thank you to @netgalley, Alcove Press and Jess Sinclair for an ARC of this book in exchange for my honest review. Available October 10!
4/5 - An engaging, suspenseful and emotional read! Bluebelle is young and in love with her childhood friend Enzo - but then her mother dies, her father is accused, the town turns against her family and Blue runs away with a secret of her own. 10 years later she is back home, child in tow, fleeing a disastrous home life and ultimately determined to find out the truth about the past. Told in present day between Blue and Enzo, this gripping story kept me turning page after page!
This is book is absolutely a drama - feuding families, tragedy, small town scandal, so many secrets, forbidden love, deep friendships and abusive relationships. It’s part family drama, part love story too. The combo is fun and a little unexpected and I gotta say, I haven’t read much like this lately!
I loved the sleepy beach town and quirky (albeit large) cast of characters. The core of the store is about relationships - platonic, familial and romantic - and the far reaching consequence of holding on to secrets and simmering resentments.
I’m a hugeeee second chance romance fan and really enjoyed that component of the story, too. There are definitely some heavier topics/themes but the book didn’t feel emotionally weighty, if that makes sense. A great summer read for sure!
4/5 - An engaging, suspenseful and emotional read! Bluebelle is young and in love with her childhood friend Enzo - but then her mother dies, her father is accused, the town turns against her family and Blue runs away with a secret of her own. 10 years later she is back home, child in tow, fleeing a disastrous home life and ultimately determined to find out the truth about the past. Told in present day between Blue and Enzo, this gripping story kept me turning page after page!
This is book is absolutely a drama - feuding families, tragedy, small town scandal, so many secrets, forbidden love, deep friendships and abusive relationships. It’s part family drama, part love story too. The combo is fun and a little unexpected and I gotta say, I haven’t read much like this lately!
I loved the sleepy beach town and quirky (albeit large) cast of characters. The core of the store is about relationships - platonic, familial and romantic - and the far reaching consequence of holding on to secrets and simmering resentments.
I’m a hugeeee second chance romance fan and really enjoyed that component of the story, too. There are definitely some heavier topics/themes but the book didn’t feel emotionally weighty, if that makes sense. A great summer read for sure!
October 18, 2023
What a beautiful family drama! Bluebell Shea has just separated from her husband and moved back to her hometown with her young son. She doesn’t really tell anyone for this, but it takes some time for her father to warm up to his daughter and grandson. Their disagreement stems from her father’s hatred of the Castellari family and didn’t approve of Bluebell dating Enzo.
As she’s dealing with this, she also runs into her former love… and the father of Murphy her son. But Enzo was never told about Murphy and doesn’t know. They get close again despite Enzo’s engagement and eventually Bluebell tells Enzo the truth. Their families still aren’t over the past and they blame each other for the death of Bluebell’s mother.
If you like family drama, this is one for you. I thought the Florida location and the fishing boats were a fun plot. I also enjoyed that Bluebell’s family is very Irish and has a lot of traditions. It did have a lot of characters and it felt like so much happened. Looking forward to more from this author.
Thank you @suzyapprovedbooktours @jesssinclair.writes and @alcovepress for my gifted book. This is out now!
As she’s dealing with this, she also runs into her former love… and the father of Murphy her son. But Enzo was never told about Murphy and doesn’t know. They get close again despite Enzo’s engagement and eventually Bluebell tells Enzo the truth. Their families still aren’t over the past and they blame each other for the death of Bluebell’s mother.
If you like family drama, this is one for you. I thought the Florida location and the fishing boats were a fun plot. I also enjoyed that Bluebell’s family is very Irish and has a lot of traditions. It did have a lot of characters and it felt like so much happened. Looking forward to more from this author.
Thank you @suzyapprovedbooktours @jesssinclair.writes and @alcovepress for my gifted book. This is out now!
October 30, 2023
I know a book is good when I can read it in a day and a half! What We Could Have Been by Jess Sinclair is a women’s fiction type novel that’s filled with family drama and a lifelong love affair between two of the main characters. It’s a story about two families whose parents start off as friends but after tragedy become enemies. All except for two of their children who fall so madly in love but due to circumstances end up going their separate ways. This story had everything, it captured my attention right from the beginning and it kept me reading because I had to know how it was all going to play out. And it sure didn’t disappoint! I loved how it ended and everything fell into place. This is a really great book, one I enjoyed immensely and I would love to read other books along these lines. I was surprised to learn that it was the authors debut novel and I can’t wait to read what she writes next. It’s certainly a book I’ll be recommending and I’m giving it a 5 star rating. I’d like to thank Alcove Press for accepting my request and NetGalley for the arc to read, review and enjoy.
October 7, 2023
What We Could Have Been is an impressive debut in women's fiction.
Ten years after fleeing her small hometown, Bluebelle, returns with her 9 year old son in tow. At the age of 26,
she is forced to confront her past and everything she ran from after her mom died.
In this small fishing town, there are lies, corruption and heartbreak. There is also the love of Blue's life, a boy she loved since she was just a little girl. The boy she ran from 10 years ago and hasn't spoken to since.
Jess Sinclair is a fantastic writer. She expertly crafted a story that weaved mystery, family drama and romance into one heartfelt story. She even got me choked up in the acknowledgements. I look forward to whatever she writes next.
Ten years after fleeing her small hometown, Bluebelle, returns with her 9 year old son in tow. At the age of 26,
she is forced to confront her past and everything she ran from after her mom died.
In this small fishing town, there are lies, corruption and heartbreak. There is also the love of Blue's life, a boy she loved since she was just a little girl. The boy she ran from 10 years ago and hasn't spoken to since.
Jess Sinclair is a fantastic writer. She expertly crafted a story that weaved mystery, family drama and romance into one heartfelt story. She even got me choked up in the acknowledgements. I look forward to whatever she writes next.
March 5, 2024
This reminded me of a combination of Same Time Next Summer and the River Runs South. Enjoyable read!
May 15, 2023
A perfect summer read! An idyllic setting in a small Gulf Coast town, full of secrets and intrigue, with a backdrop of family drama and a Romeo-and-Juliet-esque romance. Some truly beautiful relationships -- genuine friendships, grandparent/grandchild, and blended families. TW for the suggestion of domestic abuse, though it's not prevalent.
Thanks to the publisher and NetGalley for the ARC!
Thanks to the publisher and NetGalley for the ARC!
August 13, 2024
5 million stars
What We Could Have Been is one of those books that I just want to hug. It's full of second chances, loss, grief, love, friendship, family, and a little bit of mystery. The characters were flawed but so real, and I couldn't help but fall in love with all of them and the small town atmosphere. The writing was beautiful and kept the story moving effortlessly.
I adored Bluebelle and loved her story and how she got closure about what happened years ago. While this book deals with many dark things, it's still such a warm and loving book. If you like Tracey Lange books, then you MUST read this one! ❤️🥺
One of the best books I've read in 2024!
What We Could Have Been is one of those books that I just want to hug. It's full of second chances, loss, grief, love, friendship, family, and a little bit of mystery. The characters were flawed but so real, and I couldn't help but fall in love with all of them and the small town atmosphere. The writing was beautiful and kept the story moving effortlessly.
I adored Bluebelle and loved her story and how she got closure about what happened years ago. While this book deals with many dark things, it's still such a warm and loving book. If you like Tracey Lange books, then you MUST read this one! ❤️🥺
One of the best books I've read in 2024!
June 11, 2024
4.25⭐️
A really great summer read! I was very invested by the end… I wish it was longer!!!!
A really great summer read! I was very invested by the end… I wish it was longer!!!!
March 27, 2023
After her mother dies and her father is charged in her death, Bluebelle Shea leaves behind the only home (and childhood sweetheart, Enzo) she’s ever known and builds a new life elsewhere. 10 years later, she comes home and of course, her return isn’t welcomed by everyone
This story was very unexpected for me. It doesn’t fit easily into any box. To me It is equal parts thriller, romance, and domestic drama. It has suspense, forbidden love, and some surprises!
I do think the story could have been a bit less character heavy. Enzo has several brothers and I struggled to keep them straight. The writing left something to be desired for me as well. Some of the story lines had me questioning how certain characters could just accept something with absolutely no negative emotion at all. In some ways it seemed that instead of working on development more some of the storylines were just accepted as they were to make it fit the overall ending the author was working toward.
Overall, this was a quick, fairly easy read for me and I enjoyed the characters and the fishing village/beach setting. If you’re looking for a very deep, life-altering story this may not be the book for you, but If you enjoy drama, love, and some twists you will devour What We Could Have Been.
Thank you to NetGalley and Alcove Press for allowing me to read this ARC.
This story was very unexpected for me. It doesn’t fit easily into any box. To me It is equal parts thriller, romance, and domestic drama. It has suspense, forbidden love, and some surprises!
I do think the story could have been a bit less character heavy. Enzo has several brothers and I struggled to keep them straight. The writing left something to be desired for me as well. Some of the story lines had me questioning how certain characters could just accept something with absolutely no negative emotion at all. In some ways it seemed that instead of working on development more some of the storylines were just accepted as they were to make it fit the overall ending the author was working toward.
Overall, this was a quick, fairly easy read for me and I enjoyed the characters and the fishing village/beach setting. If you’re looking for a very deep, life-altering story this may not be the book for you, but If you enjoy drama, love, and some twists you will devour What We Could Have Been.
Thank you to NetGalley and Alcove Press for allowing me to read this ARC.
September 16, 2023
Jess Sinclair reached out to me with the opportunity to read an ARC of her book in exchange for a review. I couldn't resist the chance to read the book once she described a bit of the backstory.
I absolutely adored this book and had a hard time putting it down on the nights I read it before going to sleep. Just last night, I was up until 3:00 a.m. because I just needed to know what happened next.
Bluebell (Blue) has recently left her husband, taking her son with her, and decided to return to the home she grew up in. She is unsure of how her father will react to seeing her and her son, but her limited finances leave her with no other option. From the onset of the book, her father is quite the curmudgeon, yet he allows her to stay. Since Blue's mom passed away, her father has not been the same and has become nearly impossible to be around.
There is an interesting backstory involving mysterious events from the past that caused a rift between her family and the Castellaris. The families were very close for a long time until something happened that drove a wedge between them. The situation is further complicated because Enzo Castellari was Blue’s first love. I don't want to give away too much of the storyline — you REALLY need to read this book!
This book made me laugh, cry, and even get frustrated at times, but it kept me hooked until the very end. I highly recommend it — you'll love it. It is a fantastic piece of contemporary fiction with a touch of mystery. If you are a pet lover, you’ll adore the dog and cat featured in the story.
I absolutely adored this book and had a hard time putting it down on the nights I read it before going to sleep. Just last night, I was up until 3:00 a.m. because I just needed to know what happened next.
Bluebell (Blue) has recently left her husband, taking her son with her, and decided to return to the home she grew up in. She is unsure of how her father will react to seeing her and her son, but her limited finances leave her with no other option. From the onset of the book, her father is quite the curmudgeon, yet he allows her to stay. Since Blue's mom passed away, her father has not been the same and has become nearly impossible to be around.
There is an interesting backstory involving mysterious events from the past that caused a rift between her family and the Castellaris. The families were very close for a long time until something happened that drove a wedge between them. The situation is further complicated because Enzo Castellari was Blue’s first love. I don't want to give away too much of the storyline — you REALLY need to read this book!
This book made me laugh, cry, and even get frustrated at times, but it kept me hooked until the very end. I highly recommend it — you'll love it. It is a fantastic piece of contemporary fiction with a touch of mystery. If you are a pet lover, you’ll adore the dog and cat featured in the story.
September 28, 2023
This was a #BookstagramMadeMeDoIt read, and I’m so thankful to @marenreads and @jjsbookcase for putting it on my radar. I absolutely loved it.
I’ve seen the author’s writing compared to TJR, and I agree – but the real comparison I found was to Tracey Lange’s books. If you have a heart connection, like I do, to 𝘞𝘦 𝘢𝘳𝘦 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘉𝘳𝘦𝘯𝘯𝘢𝘯𝘴 or 𝘛𝘩𝘦 𝘊𝘰𝘯𝘯𝘦𝘭𝘭𝘺𝘴 𝘰𝘧 𝘊𝘰𝘶𝘯𝘵𝘺 𝘋𝘰𝘸𝘯, you absolutely can not miss this one. I finished it and immediately started texting people with “OMG YOU HAVE TO READ THIS!”
In these pages we have secondhand romance, motherhood, grief, pet love, family drama and an element of suspense. The characters are relatable, and I was just drawn in completely by the storytelling.
According to the author’s website, she writes mysteries as @tracygardnerbooks, and 𝘞𝘩𝘢𝘵 𝘞𝘦 𝘊𝘰𝘶𝘭𝘥 𝘏𝘢𝘷𝘦 𝘉𝘦𝘦𝘯 is her debut contemporary fiction as @jesssinclair.writes. I’ll definitely be checking out those mystery titles and eagerly awaiting the next contemporary fiction.
I did listen to this title on audiobook, and I have to commend the narrator @nanmcnamara. She voiced a full cast of characters masterfully. Add her to my top five narrators!
This would make a fabulous book club pick and the perfect read to curl up with on a lazy day. HIGHLY RECOMMEND!
My thanks to @dreamscape_media and @netgalley for the opportunity to read and review this book before its publication date.
I’ve seen the author’s writing compared to TJR, and I agree – but the real comparison I found was to Tracey Lange’s books. If you have a heart connection, like I do, to 𝘞𝘦 𝘢𝘳𝘦 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘉𝘳𝘦𝘯𝘯𝘢𝘯𝘴 or 𝘛𝘩𝘦 𝘊𝘰𝘯𝘯𝘦𝘭𝘭𝘺𝘴 𝘰𝘧 𝘊𝘰𝘶𝘯𝘵𝘺 𝘋𝘰𝘸𝘯, you absolutely can not miss this one. I finished it and immediately started texting people with “OMG YOU HAVE TO READ THIS!”
In these pages we have secondhand romance, motherhood, grief, pet love, family drama and an element of suspense. The characters are relatable, and I was just drawn in completely by the storytelling.
According to the author’s website, she writes mysteries as @tracygardnerbooks, and 𝘞𝘩𝘢𝘵 𝘞𝘦 𝘊𝘰𝘶𝘭𝘥 𝘏𝘢𝘷𝘦 𝘉𝘦𝘦𝘯 is her debut contemporary fiction as @jesssinclair.writes. I’ll definitely be checking out those mystery titles and eagerly awaiting the next contemporary fiction.
I did listen to this title on audiobook, and I have to commend the narrator @nanmcnamara. She voiced a full cast of characters masterfully. Add her to my top five narrators!
This would make a fabulous book club pick and the perfect read to curl up with on a lazy day. HIGHLY RECOMMEND!
My thanks to @dreamscape_media and @netgalley for the opportunity to read and review this book before its publication date.
September 30, 2023
You can't go home again! That's what the great Thomas Wolfe wrote. But, maybe you can.
This is Bluebell Shea's story. She left town suddenly just as she was finishing high school without a word to anyone. Ten years later she's back again.
Present story and back story. The back story is a bit of a mystery unravelling. The present story speaks for itself.
There are a lot of things happening in this story. There is love, forgiveness, reconciliation, family drama, feuding, and a Fairy Garden. It all comes together nicely.
The characters are believable. There are even two characters that I loved to dislike. Our girl, Blue has some issues but underneath it all, she is a strong woman. I had some problems with her name….who names their child Bluebell? It sounds like it’s left over from the hippie days. But, it did go along with the Fairy Garden.
I like the setting, a small fishing town on the Gulf Coast of Florida. In, fact, the fishing industry is also part of the story. The setting gives a great book cover. Sunset and pier.
Favourite quote from the the book: You are the entire ocean in a drop. (I know, it's a little bit corny but I like it!)
Quick, easy and entertaining read. Enough drama to keep the reader turning pages.
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for the Advance Readers Copy.
This is Bluebell Shea's story. She left town suddenly just as she was finishing high school without a word to anyone. Ten years later she's back again.
Present story and back story. The back story is a bit of a mystery unravelling. The present story speaks for itself.
There are a lot of things happening in this story. There is love, forgiveness, reconciliation, family drama, feuding, and a Fairy Garden. It all comes together nicely.
The characters are believable. There are even two characters that I loved to dislike. Our girl, Blue has some issues but underneath it all, she is a strong woman. I had some problems with her name….who names their child Bluebell? It sounds like it’s left over from the hippie days. But, it did go along with the Fairy Garden.
I like the setting, a small fishing town on the Gulf Coast of Florida. In, fact, the fishing industry is also part of the story. The setting gives a great book cover. Sunset and pier.
Favourite quote from the the book: You are the entire ocean in a drop. (I know, it's a little bit corny but I like it!)
Quick, easy and entertaining read. Enough drama to keep the reader turning pages.
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for the Advance Readers Copy.
November 2, 2023
I loved that this book had family drama, a second chance romance, and a bit of a decade old mystery.
It has dislikable and shady characters. It also has some characters who embody people we all need in our corner.
It is set on the Gulf Coast in Florida and gives the reader a look into the fishing industry there.
The story centers around Blue and Enzo and their families. They were best friends and then more from Kindergarten through high school. There is an incident where the families of Blue and Enzo go from close to enemies. Then Blue’s mother dies tragically, her dad is held responsible, and much of the town including Enzo and his parents aren’t there for Blue. Blue leaves town at 17.
Ten years later, Blue returns with a son after she has left an unhealthy marriage. Blue is a nurse and she treats Enzo in the ER after he accidentally hurts his eye. Enzo is with his fiancée and Blue sees clearly that he has moved on with his life.
Enzo is shaken to the core after seeing Blue.
Blue has come home to start fresh with her son, but at the same time she wants the truth about her mother’s death.
This book kept me reading long past my bedtime (which I usually only do for thrillers) as the layers are unpeeled about the past. I also couldn’t stop the pages from turning as I wanted to see the outcome with all these phenomenally written characters.
It has dislikable and shady characters. It also has some characters who embody people we all need in our corner.
It is set on the Gulf Coast in Florida and gives the reader a look into the fishing industry there.
The story centers around Blue and Enzo and their families. They were best friends and then more from Kindergarten through high school. There is an incident where the families of Blue and Enzo go from close to enemies. Then Blue’s mother dies tragically, her dad is held responsible, and much of the town including Enzo and his parents aren’t there for Blue. Blue leaves town at 17.
Ten years later, Blue returns with a son after she has left an unhealthy marriage. Blue is a nurse and she treats Enzo in the ER after he accidentally hurts his eye. Enzo is with his fiancée and Blue sees clearly that he has moved on with his life.
Enzo is shaken to the core after seeing Blue.
Blue has come home to start fresh with her son, but at the same time she wants the truth about her mother’s death.
This book kept me reading long past my bedtime (which I usually only do for thrillers) as the layers are unpeeled about the past. I also couldn’t stop the pages from turning as I wanted to see the outcome with all these phenomenally written characters.
Want to read
September 28, 2023Blue's back home at her father's house with her young son Murphy- it's not easy because her father hasn't been the same since her mother drowned 10 years ago. It's also hard because Enzo is in town as well Enzo, her first love and a man more important than she wants to admit. Unfortunately, their families have never gotten along What happened the night her mom died? It's key to the story but no spoilers from me. This is all about second chances- not just in romance but in life- and about family. Thanks to netgalley for the ARC. A good read.
May 5, 2023
What We Could Have Been is an entrancing read. It combines the best aspects of mystery, romance and thrillers for a uniquely captivating story that is achingly heartfelt and shimmering with hope.
Bluebell leaves her abusive husband and returns to her coastal Florida hometown with her son in tow. Back home with her father after running away ten years ago as a pregnant teenager, Blue has to confront the many questions she’d left behind. What happened that night when her father carried her mother home, crying and bleeding, from the Castellaris’ house? Was her father really to blame for her mother’s drowning death two years later? Was she right to abandon Enzo Castellari, her first (and perhaps only) love, without a goodbye? And what should Blue do, now that Enzo is engaged and her husband is threatening to take her away once more?
Jess Sinclair’s setting is rich with sensual detail, and her characters are emotionally vivid and compelling. I hope you'll enjoy What We Could Have Been as much as I did.
Bluebell leaves her abusive husband and returns to her coastal Florida hometown with her son in tow. Back home with her father after running away ten years ago as a pregnant teenager, Blue has to confront the many questions she’d left behind. What happened that night when her father carried her mother home, crying and bleeding, from the Castellaris’ house? Was her father really to blame for her mother’s drowning death two years later? Was she right to abandon Enzo Castellari, her first (and perhaps only) love, without a goodbye? And what should Blue do, now that Enzo is engaged and her husband is threatening to take her away once more?
Jess Sinclair’s setting is rich with sensual detail, and her characters are emotionally vivid and compelling. I hope you'll enjoy What We Could Have Been as much as I did.
June 3, 2023
Bluebelle Shea heads back to Bliss, FL with her son Murphy after leaving 10 years earlier, following the drowning death of her mother and her father is arrested for her murder. Blue is also trying to escape her abusive husband, who has just asked for a divorce. She feels lost, alone and scared. She shows up at her father’s house, not knowing if he’ll even let her in - she hasn’t been in contact with him for all those years. The story is very interesting, pulling you into the emotional turmoil of abuse, secrets, relationships, etc. I found it to be a fairly good paced story, weaving romance and some mystery throughout. The characters were interesting and well written. Even though you could guess where the story might be going, I still found it drawing me in. I recommend this book, it’s a quick and enjoyable read. I give it 4 out of 5 stars.
Thank you to the publisher and NetGalley for this digital ARC in exchange for an honest review.
Thank you to the publisher and NetGalley for this digital ARC in exchange for an honest review.
April 12, 2023
I absolutely loved this book. I couldn't put it down. I could relate to the things Blue had been through with her soon to be ex husband. So it made those parts relatable for me. I loved how this was equal parts thriller, romance, and domestic drama. It has suspense, forbidden love, and some surprises! I felt like this was very fast paced and I wanted more after it was over. This is now my favorite read of the year and I hope I get to read more books by Jess Sinclair. I highly recommend this book.
Thanks NetGalley and Alcove Press for allowing me to read this ARC in advance for my honest opinion.
Thanks NetGalley and Alcove Press for allowing me to read this ARC in advance for my honest opinion.
September 27, 2023
This was a good Romeo and Juliet-esque type story. Blue and Enzo were in love at 17 but their families became enemies and they were torn from each other. Blue comes back 10 years later with a young son in tow because she's running away from an abusive marriage.
I really like the way that a some of the town people never blamed Blue's family for what happened to her mother but sad that there were still people that could not stand her coming back. I like the fairy garden and what is said in the messages that they get through the fairy garden like "You are the entire ocean in a drop". Second chances grow out of Blue and Enzo seeing each other again. They were able to solve the mystery as to why their families were so at war and what really happened years back. The ending lessons were beautiful.
I really like the way that a some of the town people never blamed Blue's family for what happened to her mother but sad that there were still people that could not stand her coming back. I like the fairy garden and what is said in the messages that they get through the fairy garden like "You are the entire ocean in a drop". Second chances grow out of Blue and Enzo seeing each other again. They were able to solve the mystery as to why their families were so at war and what really happened years back. The ending lessons were beautiful.
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