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Love Me At My Worst
Three… Two… One… BOO!
Isla Walsh is a prankster, and her favorite person to pull one over on has to be her principal, Andry Murphey. But Isla isn’t all fun and games, and her sixth grade students will attest to that. Behind every prank Isla plays hides a secret she hasn’t shared since she moved to Cheyenne. She’s not the happy person she seems to be. In fact, she’s pretty certain everyone will leave her.
Andry Murphey moved to Cheyenne because of a woman, and two years after her marriage ended, she hasn’t found who she is other than a principal. For two years all she could handle was the basics of life, until her favorite teacher ups the ante on the pranks. In each trick, she finds joy again, and Andry wonders what it would be like if she could fall in love again.
Follow two broken hearts in this sensual age gap romance as Isla and Andry rediscover themselves and what it means to love others through their worst.
Let the prank wars commence!
Isla Walsh is a prankster, and her favorite person to pull one over on has to be her principal, Andry Murphey. But Isla isn’t all fun and games, and her sixth grade students will attest to that. Behind every prank Isla plays hides a secret she hasn’t shared since she moved to Cheyenne. She’s not the happy person she seems to be. In fact, she’s pretty certain everyone will leave her.
Andry Murphey moved to Cheyenne because of a woman, and two years after her marriage ended, she hasn’t found who she is other than a principal. For two years all she could handle was the basics of life, until her favorite teacher ups the ante on the pranks. In each trick, she finds joy again, and Andry wonders what it would be like if she could fall in love again.
Follow two broken hearts in this sensual age gap romance as Isla and Andry rediscover themselves and what it means to love others through their worst.
Let the prank wars commence!
347 pages, Kindle Edition
Published June 30, 2023
140 people are currently reading
560 people want to read
About the author
Adrian J. Smith
76 books417 followersAdrian J. Smith has been publishing since 2013 but has been writing nearly her entire life. With a focus on women loving women fiction, AJ jumps genres from action-packed police procedurals to the seedier life of vampires and witches to sweet romances with a May-December twist. She loves writing and reading about women in the midst of the ordinariness of life. Two of her novels, For by Grace and Memoir in the Making, received honorable mentions with the Rainbow Awards.
AJ currently lives in Cheyenne, WY, although she moves often and has lived all over the United States. She loves to travel to different countries and places. She currently plays the roles of author, wife, and mother to two rambunctious kids, occasional handy-woman. Connect with her on Facebook, Twitter, or her blog.
AJ currently lives in Cheyenne, WY, although she moves often and has lived all over the United States. She loves to travel to different countries and places. She currently plays the roles of author, wife, and mother to two rambunctious kids, occasional handy-woman. Connect with her on Facebook, Twitter, or her blog.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 67 reviews
June 27, 2023
When I have read the first book in this series I developed a soft spot for Isla (Lynda‘s stepdaughter). I felt like there is so much about her I would like to know more about. So I was very excited to read her story. Personally I feel like it makes sense to read the books in order, and if you haven’t read the other ones I would start there. But of course that’s up to every reader. 😊
If you have read book one you already know a lot about what happened in Isla‘s past. You got Lynda‘s perspective but getting Isla‘s felt like finding a missing puzzle piece. We get to know about her feelings and what brought her to the point of not speaking anymore with her stepmother. Most of all we get to see her in a very low point in her life. One of the only things that seems to bring her joy are the pranks she plays, all directed at her principal and work friend Andry. But not even these seem to do a lot anymore. Her life basically is getting through her days any way she can.
Andry has her own things to deal with. Raising her 16 years old daughter alone after getting a divorce and having to get along with her ex for the sake of her daughter. She isn’t really looking for a dates or a relationship but something about Isla draws her in. I liked how they slowly spent more time together and how they got closer through it. How they slowly let each other in and due to that their trust grew. Bottling up what bothered me is something I did a lot as well, so I totally related to that part. I know how much it helps to finally talk about something and I think that’s why I loved to see how Isla slowly opened up and started to talk.
Their transition from friendship to more was beautiful to witness. Every fan of slow burn romances will definitely be very happy. Which doesn’t mean that you don’t get any heat because their chemistry definitely is amazing.
There is also a part with one of Isla‘s students that touched me deeply. I don’t believe in coincidences and for me it felt like this had to happen for Isla to help her heal. Of course I know it’s only fiction but I still felt this way. If you read it you will understand.
For me Adrian J. Smith has written another wonderful book that totally grabbed me and I just loved the whole journey of these two.
I received an advance reader copy from the author and voluntarily leaving a review.
If you have read book one you already know a lot about what happened in Isla‘s past. You got Lynda‘s perspective but getting Isla‘s felt like finding a missing puzzle piece. We get to know about her feelings and what brought her to the point of not speaking anymore with her stepmother. Most of all we get to see her in a very low point in her life. One of the only things that seems to bring her joy are the pranks she plays, all directed at her principal and work friend Andry. But not even these seem to do a lot anymore. Her life basically is getting through her days any way she can.
Andry has her own things to deal with. Raising her 16 years old daughter alone after getting a divorce and having to get along with her ex for the sake of her daughter. She isn’t really looking for a dates or a relationship but something about Isla draws her in. I liked how they slowly spent more time together and how they got closer through it. How they slowly let each other in and due to that their trust grew. Bottling up what bothered me is something I did a lot as well, so I totally related to that part. I know how much it helps to finally talk about something and I think that’s why I loved to see how Isla slowly opened up and started to talk.
Their transition from friendship to more was beautiful to witness. Every fan of slow burn romances will definitely be very happy. Which doesn’t mean that you don’t get any heat because their chemistry definitely is amazing.
There is also a part with one of Isla‘s students that touched me deeply. I don’t believe in coincidences and for me it felt like this had to happen for Isla to help her heal. Of course I know it’s only fiction but I still felt this way. If you read it you will understand.
For me Adrian J. Smith has written another wonderful book that totally grabbed me and I just loved the whole journey of these two.
I received an advance reader copy from the author and voluntarily leaving a review.
July 6, 2023
This is a age gap romance between Isla a sixth grade teacher and Andry the principal at Isla’s elementary school. Isla suffers from depression and anxiety and is working hard to overcome her childhood trauma. Eventually she opens up to Andry about her past and Andry is a source of comfort to her.
Both. characters resonated with me. I could appreciate Isla troubled childhood and feelings of loneliness. And Andry’s relationship with her alcoholic ex.
The fun pranks that they played on each other throughout the book added a lighthearted element to the story. Overall this was well written and very similar to real life with two relatable characters.
Both. characters resonated with me. I could appreciate Isla troubled childhood and feelings of loneliness. And Andry’s relationship with her alcoholic ex.
The fun pranks that they played on each other throughout the book added a lighthearted element to the story. Overall this was well written and very similar to real life with two relatable characters.
July 4, 2023
I've learned over time that Adrian J. Smith cannot be pigeon-holed and I love that!
Smith's latest book is a slow, well executed romance and much, much more. We were introduced to Isla Walsh as a teenager then adult in When the Past Finds You, now we delve deeper and learn more of her story. A 6th grade teacher with a healthy appetite for playing pranks - Isla hides deep hurt behind a happy mask and her students adore her. School Principal and single mom to a 16 year old daughter, Andry Murphey bears the brunt of Isla's pranks. She has her own burden of hurt to work through and her friendship with Isla is important. I wanted more than friendship for the two women.
This storyline from Smith goes beyond a mere romance - dealing with difficult topics of trauma and depression with sensitivity. Therapy, discussion and a willingness to talk, enables healing and understanding with individuals and is a major part of this book together with humor and trust and a slow growth and movement from friendship to love.
Firmly on my favorites shelf, I recommend LMAMW without reservation.
Smith's latest book is a slow, well executed romance and much, much more. We were introduced to Isla Walsh as a teenager then adult in When the Past Finds You, now we delve deeper and learn more of her story. A 6th grade teacher with a healthy appetite for playing pranks - Isla hides deep hurt behind a happy mask and her students adore her. School Principal and single mom to a 16 year old daughter, Andry Murphey bears the brunt of Isla's pranks. She has her own burden of hurt to work through and her friendship with Isla is important. I wanted more than friendship for the two women.
This storyline from Smith goes beyond a mere romance - dealing with difficult topics of trauma and depression with sensitivity. Therapy, discussion and a willingness to talk, enables healing and understanding with individuals and is a major part of this book together with humor and trust and a slow growth and movement from friendship to love.
Firmly on my favorites shelf, I recommend LMAMW without reservation.
November 21, 2023
Heartwarming slow burn. Two women finding each other through communication and many, many pranks.
The longing to be cared for and to care for someone.
Find the one that understands your struggles and knows what your pain feels like. Someone that "sees you".
My heart went to Isla and I am so relieved she finally found happiness, and worked through her traumatic past.
The key is always opening up and sharing your pain. Keeping it all inside will only delay the storm within yourself.
Find the people that care about you and give second chances to the ones you thought never cared.
I liked the mix between mental health struggles and the lightening up with the pranks. Even the pranks screamed for need of attention. Another way of showing that you care for someone.
Good age gap novel. I did enjoy more When The Past Finds You, because it was more of the type of passion I love to read about, but I enjoyed Love Me At My Worst too a lot. I grew fond of Isla from the first book and I felt protective of her.
I see how smart Adrian J Smith is doing it with these novels... because now I want to make sure Chris finds her way back to life and happiness.
So yeah, I am so going to read Inside These Halls, and the next one that will be about her. Apparently Adrian J Smith will write it. It's gonna be intense!
The longing to be cared for and to care for someone.
Find the one that understands your struggles and knows what your pain feels like. Someone that "sees you".
My heart went to Isla and I am so relieved she finally found happiness, and worked through her traumatic past.
The key is always opening up and sharing your pain. Keeping it all inside will only delay the storm within yourself.
Find the people that care about you and give second chances to the ones you thought never cared.
I liked the mix between mental health struggles and the lightening up with the pranks. Even the pranks screamed for need of attention. Another way of showing that you care for someone.
Good age gap novel. I did enjoy more When The Past Finds You, because it was more of the type of passion I love to read about, but I enjoyed Love Me At My Worst too a lot. I grew fond of Isla from the first book and I felt protective of her.
I see how smart Adrian J Smith is doing it with these novels... because now I want to make sure Chris finds her way back to life and happiness.
So yeah, I am so going to read Inside These Halls, and the next one that will be about her. Apparently Adrian J Smith will write it. It's gonna be intense!
October 25, 2023
3.5 ⭐
If you are in the mood for a light read with sparks, don’t pick this book. It tackles the topic of mental issue and grief, and complicated family relationship, and Smith did it well. I liked how well it’s showed that depression it’s not something monochrome, it’s a lot of work, and people aren’t just totally sad or totally happy. Isla and Andry both have a lot of baggages. It was very sweet to see them find each other. I liked how the relationship is slowly building up, with a lot of mutual support, communication and patience. It’s very balanced and healthy.
At first had a bit trouble getting invested in the story : for a master of pranks, the first ones were a bit basic despite them saying it was the best pranks Isla ever pulled. Eventually, in the end, they pulled pranks that matches her reputation. I also found that the first moments of their mutual attraction felt a bit forced. But once they were on track, it became more natural and eventually I got invested with them. Overall, I appreciated Isla and Andry’s story.
PS: I didn't read *When the past finds you* first and I think it's better before reading this one
If you are in the mood for a light read with sparks, don’t pick this book. It tackles the topic of mental issue and grief, and complicated family relationship, and Smith did it well. I liked how well it’s showed that depression it’s not something monochrome, it’s a lot of work, and people aren’t just totally sad or totally happy. Isla and Andry both have a lot of baggages. It was very sweet to see them find each other. I liked how the relationship is slowly building up, with a lot of mutual support, communication and patience. It’s very balanced and healthy.
At first had a bit trouble getting invested in the story : for a master of pranks, the first ones were a bit basic despite them saying it was the best pranks Isla ever pulled. Eventually, in the end, they pulled pranks that matches her reputation. I also found that the first moments of their mutual attraction felt a bit forced. But once they were on track, it became more natural and eventually I got invested with them. Overall, I appreciated Isla and Andry’s story.
PS: I didn't read *When the past finds you* first and I think it's better before reading this one
October 29, 2024
I picked this up with high hopes for the perfect Halloween read, but unfortunately, it didn’t quite hit the mark for me. The blurb is a bit misleading—the first 35% (about 11 chapters) leans heavily into themes of grief, past trauma, and a lot of heart-to-heart moments. It’s a very slow burn, with little momentum to push the story forward. I found myself thinking, “If they don’t kiss in this chapter, I’m giving up” because it just dragged on that much. And when Isla and Andry finally did get together, it was more of a “we need to wait” situation, to the point I audibly sighed. This book could have benefitted from tighter editing; instead of stretching to 347 pages, it would’ve worked better at a lean 270. By chapter 20, I felt done, but my stubbornness (and the money I’d spent on the book) got me through all 40 chapters.
On a brighter note, the cover is stunning, and though it took its time getting there, the ending was satisfying, tying up all the familial and romantic relationship issues well. I appreciated how Isla and Andry’s relationship wasn’t sugar-coated—there were real intimacy and trust issues that were portrayed honestly. Their journey was a long one, but that length allowed all the complexities of their relationship to be worked through in a way that felt authentic. The pacing gave each hurdle more than enough space to breathe, so by the end, it really felt like nothing was left unresolved and you believed in their HEA.
On a brighter note, the cover is stunning, and though it took its time getting there, the ending was satisfying, tying up all the familial and romantic relationship issues well. I appreciated how Isla and Andry’s relationship wasn’t sugar-coated—there were real intimacy and trust issues that were portrayed honestly. Their journey was a long one, but that length allowed all the complexities of their relationship to be worked through in a way that felt authentic. The pacing gave each hurdle more than enough space to breathe, so by the end, it really felt like nothing was left unresolved and you believed in their HEA.
June 30, 2023
this is MY girl's book!!! isla has been my fav since the first book and i love her still. my sweet angel and my ray of sunshine :( i hope she's immensely happy rn. (Alexa play Hope ur ok by Olivia Rodrigo) 🌤️🤍💐
June 30, 2025
Great novel; it’s a 4-5 star situation and I rounded.
This story is less about the romance than I expected and focuses heavily on characters working through trauma and communication issues, so set your expectations accordingly. It takes place following “When The Past Finds You” and I think that this novel benefits a lot from reading that one first. This is a character-drivel novel for sure with a dual POV, and each character was very well written and developed, with a satisfying and complete character arc. The cast of side characters add a lot to the novel, and in true Adrian J. Smith fashion a few of them get their own novels to carry on the plotlines that were started here (I’m looking at Chris specifically, and Maybe Someday is on hell of an experience as well).
No specific downsides for this novel, other than it dragged a little bit at times. A lot of this novel lacked a bit of impact. I’m not sure if it was too long or if it just didn’t have enough happening; this certainly was a slow burn in the romance department and there wasn’t a lot of plot. There were also a lot of “pranks” being pulled throughout the novel (one of the main premises) and I couldn’t help rolling my eyes at how incredibly lame most of them were; there wasn’t a single original prank that I haven’t heard of a thousand times and no amount of suspension of disbelief would have me believe that they laughed that loudly for a few of them.
This story is less about the romance than I expected and focuses heavily on characters working through trauma and communication issues, so set your expectations accordingly. It takes place following “When The Past Finds You” and I think that this novel benefits a lot from reading that one first. This is a character-drivel novel for sure with a dual POV, and each character was very well written and developed, with a satisfying and complete character arc. The cast of side characters add a lot to the novel, and in true Adrian J. Smith fashion a few of them get their own novels to carry on the plotlines that were started here (I’m looking at Chris specifically, and Maybe Someday is on hell of an experience as well).
No specific downsides for this novel, other than it dragged a little bit at times. A lot of this novel lacked a bit of impact. I’m not sure if it was too long or if it just didn’t have enough happening; this certainly was a slow burn in the romance department and there wasn’t a lot of plot. There were also a lot of “pranks” being pulled throughout the novel (one of the main premises) and I couldn’t help rolling my eyes at how incredibly lame most of them were; there wasn’t a single original prank that I haven’t heard of a thousand times and no amount of suspension of disbelief would have me believe that they laughed that loudly for a few of them.
June 26, 2023
Interesting that this book fell on my lap at a time I am personally facing a friend with depression.
Yes, this book deals a bit with depression, but please don't be put out by this because it is mostly about coming out of depression rather than depression itself.
The way Isla and Andry deal with it is amazing and uplifting. With every curve ball thrown at them they somehow manage to get over the setback and turn them into something that helps them to overcome depression (Isla) or get a different perspective (Andry).
If you have a friend who is depressed, please read this.
In fact, we should all read this because not only this book is full of hidden wisdom, but also many around us are depressed, we just don't know it. For that matter they may not even know it themselves.
This book taught me to never underestimate someone with depression. Being depressed or not, anything traumatic that has happened to us can be used to help oneself and others if you are willing to see things with a new mindset.
This is a very insightful book. I found so many one liner of wisdom (at least they were to me). There is one sentence that will now always stay with me: "family is an adventure in communication"
Yes, this book deals a bit with depression, but please don't be put out by this because it is mostly about coming out of depression rather than depression itself.
The way Isla and Andry deal with it is amazing and uplifting. With every curve ball thrown at them they somehow manage to get over the setback and turn them into something that helps them to overcome depression (Isla) or get a different perspective (Andry).
If you have a friend who is depressed, please read this.
In fact, we should all read this because not only this book is full of hidden wisdom, but also many around us are depressed, we just don't know it. For that matter they may not even know it themselves.
This book taught me to never underestimate someone with depression. Being depressed or not, anything traumatic that has happened to us can be used to help oneself and others if you are willing to see things with a new mindset.
This is a very insightful book. I found so many one liner of wisdom (at least they were to me). There is one sentence that will now always stay with me: "family is an adventure in communication"
August 20, 2023
A nice slow burn that followed a proper timeline for grief, trauma and heartbreak. The complexities of interpersonal relationship was thoroughly exposed and dissected in the stories of the women who dared explore a tentative friendship. Their story is captivating. I’m just sorry I didn’t read the book before this one to begin with.
June 30, 2023
I loved Isla and Andry’s story. While there is a lot of fun, behind that Isla is trying to figure out how to move forward alone now that her longest friendship is seemingly in peril. Andry is trying to move forward after her ex and their divorce, her daughter is ever closer to being a grown up, and her prankster employee is drawing her ever closer. Andry sees Isla but breaking down Isla’s walls while also letting Isla through hers is tough. Their relationship is lovely to see grow and become the support and love they both need to overcome difficult relationships. As they navigate their new relationship, they may also find closure for the struggles of their pasts.
June 30, 2023
Releases 30 June!
Trauma in childhood and/or adolescence still affects us as adults
Therapists ask the tough questions that’ll help us admit what’s really and truly bothering us. Addressing the core issues is what helps us heal. Yes, it is a process, it can be difficult, and it drains us. But it is soooo worth it!
When we see someone in pain (whether it be a family member, friend, co-worker, neighbor, acquaintance, or a stranger), please don’t ignore it. For those of us who are not therapy professionals, we can still offer some assistance. With permission, of course.
Being seen and being heard can provide people just the amount of dignity, hope, and self-esteem needed for them to pick themselves up a wee bit. Knowing somebody cares and that they are not alone in their pain can provide just the boost they need to speak with a professional. Maybe not right then, maybe not tomorrow. But showing them where the path is located, that there IS a path, is a compassionate thing to do.
People need touch (in general) as part of normal, human interaction. Not going into the science of emotional well-being, but there are times that we need adult-to-adult contact in order to be comforted. Words get in the way and social cues aren’t always the most reliable, so a hand gently placed in an appropriate place and with permission can make a huge difference.
We can give our approval/blessing for something even if we’re not okay with it. But it IS important that we define and communicate what we mean by approval/blessing and if there are any boundaries that will help give us space to process the situation. Example: If I’m the one with the problem, then why should you two have to wait around? Just please don’t tell me every single day what you do, where you go, what you ate, etc. To be balanced, I’ll occasionally ask how things are going. Then slowly, slowly things will either organically improve or we’ll address stuff once I got a better handle on my problem.
As far as stepparents go…
My family has probably had more of them than most. My maternal grandmother; both parents; various cousins are, have, and are married to stepparents. My father remarried when I was an adult, etc. Personally, I’m on my third round of being a non-custodial step-parent – the first when I was twenty-one and the other two times to adults.
But none of that familial familiarity or personal experience could ever ever ever prepare anybody to become the ONLY parent after stepping in as an additional or side parent (depending on the family). Especially, not in the midst of grieving a beloved and suddenly-deceased spouse.
As much as I think that the orphaned children/teens take priority, I cannot be judgmental of Lynda at all in any way whatsoever. Life is difficult & messy at its best, and adults don’t handle bleak situations perfectly because humans are not perfect. All she and Isla can do is to communicate with compassion, respect boundaries & the other’s mindset, and be patient.
The author brought up a very valid point that can happen between pretty much anybody:
‘When there’s a slow degradation of a relationship, we’re stuck in the midst of it barely even noticing its falling apart around us.’
May we all find peace from our past broken relationships and endeavor to cherish the present & future ones.
I’ve already enjoyed the previous books in this series (‘When The Past Finds You’ and ‘Don't Quit Your Daydream’) as well as some of the author’s other series. Definitely plan on continuing them all…starting with ‘Inside These Halls’ in August.
Trauma in childhood and/or adolescence still affects us as adults
Therapists ask the tough questions that’ll help us admit what’s really and truly bothering us. Addressing the core issues is what helps us heal. Yes, it is a process, it can be difficult, and it drains us. But it is soooo worth it!
When we see someone in pain (whether it be a family member, friend, co-worker, neighbor, acquaintance, or a stranger), please don’t ignore it. For those of us who are not therapy professionals, we can still offer some assistance. With permission, of course.
Being seen and being heard can provide people just the amount of dignity, hope, and self-esteem needed for them to pick themselves up a wee bit. Knowing somebody cares and that they are not alone in their pain can provide just the boost they need to speak with a professional. Maybe not right then, maybe not tomorrow. But showing them where the path is located, that there IS a path, is a compassionate thing to do.
People need touch (in general) as part of normal, human interaction. Not going into the science of emotional well-being, but there are times that we need adult-to-adult contact in order to be comforted. Words get in the way and social cues aren’t always the most reliable, so a hand gently placed in an appropriate place and with permission can make a huge difference.
We can give our approval/blessing for something even if we’re not okay with it. But it IS important that we define and communicate what we mean by approval/blessing and if there are any boundaries that will help give us space to process the situation. Example: If I’m the one with the problem, then why should you two have to wait around? Just please don’t tell me every single day what you do, where you go, what you ate, etc. To be balanced, I’ll occasionally ask how things are going. Then slowly, slowly things will either organically improve or we’ll address stuff once I got a better handle on my problem.
As far as stepparents go…
My family has probably had more of them than most. My maternal grandmother; both parents; various cousins are, have, and are married to stepparents. My father remarried when I was an adult, etc. Personally, I’m on my third round of being a non-custodial step-parent – the first when I was twenty-one and the other two times to adults.
But none of that familial familiarity or personal experience could ever ever ever prepare anybody to become the ONLY parent after stepping in as an additional or side parent (depending on the family). Especially, not in the midst of grieving a beloved and suddenly-deceased spouse.
As much as I think that the orphaned children/teens take priority, I cannot be judgmental of Lynda at all in any way whatsoever. Life is difficult & messy at its best, and adults don’t handle bleak situations perfectly because humans are not perfect. All she and Isla can do is to communicate with compassion, respect boundaries & the other’s mindset, and be patient.
The author brought up a very valid point that can happen between pretty much anybody:
‘When there’s a slow degradation of a relationship, we’re stuck in the midst of it barely even noticing its falling apart around us.’
May we all find peace from our past broken relationships and endeavor to cherish the present & future ones.
I’ve already enjoyed the previous books in this series (‘When The Past Finds You’ and ‘Don't Quit Your Daydream’) as well as some of the author’s other series. Definitely plan on continuing them all…starting with ‘Inside These Halls’ in August.
July 1, 2023
I hadn’t read any others in the group but don’t feel that hampered my enjoyment of this one. I loved this book! It did take a wee bit for me to get totally involved, (possibly because I hadn’t read the other?) but once I warmed up, my ardour never cooled.
I didn’t quite get the hilarity of the prank but the first chapter certainly left me with questions so I am keen to keep reading and find answers.
I’m not sure what the barriers to the relationship are, apart from boss/subordinate but that doesn’t seem to be being mentioned as an issue. I’m still not quite sure what the back story with one main is, but I am interested in finding out. Still don’t get the pranks tho!
I’m also not quite seeing the chemistry with the two mains. The heartfelt conversation between one main and her stepmom is so well written. I found it very moving so perhaps the mains just haven’t got to the chemistry bit yet. The same with the same main and her bestie.
The mains do move forward, and again it is when a major issue in one’s life, that they kept hidden from others is revealed they move closer. Again a pivotal conversation and again very well written.
Oh my goodness. This writer has me in bits. Again not an interaction between the mains, but an interaction that will have an impact on the mains.
The scene where the two mains have dinner with a significant person in one of their lives captures what I imagine to be reality beautifully. I am loving this book!
Another plot problem, signposted, yes, but only in hindsight. So good!
I didn’t quite get the hilarity of the prank but the first chapter certainly left me with questions so I am keen to keep reading and find answers.
I’m not sure what the barriers to the relationship are, apart from boss/subordinate but that doesn’t seem to be being mentioned as an issue. I’m still not quite sure what the back story with one main is, but I am interested in finding out. Still don’t get the pranks tho!
I’m also not quite seeing the chemistry with the two mains. The heartfelt conversation between one main and her stepmom is so well written. I found it very moving so perhaps the mains just haven’t got to the chemistry bit yet. The same with the same main and her bestie.
The mains do move forward, and again it is when a major issue in one’s life, that they kept hidden from others is revealed they move closer. Again a pivotal conversation and again very well written.
Oh my goodness. This writer has me in bits. Again not an interaction between the mains, but an interaction that will have an impact on the mains.
The scene where the two mains have dinner with a significant person in one of their lives captures what I imagine to be reality beautifully. I am loving this book!
Another plot problem, signposted, yes, but only in hindsight. So good!
July 18, 2023
This was definitely my favorite of the three in this series, I believe!! I loved Wil and Lynda, but at the same time felt kind of strange about it. “Don’t Quit Your Daydream” was really good, but it was far more dramatic without the lighthearted bits. This was perfect. A wonderful balance between the conflict and the pranks, which eased the tension marvelously!!
I think my complaint from the other two still stands: these books repeat themselves far too much. A character talks through something, thinks through it, talks through it, thinks through it, and talks through it again, all with slightly varied phrasing. Not that it is bad, necessarily — if anything, it is realistic. I know, personally, it is easy to belabor a point, especially over the course of weeks / months. But reading it multiple times does become rather tedious.
I think my complaint from the other two still stands: these books repeat themselves far too much. A character talks through something, thinks through it, talks through it, thinks through it, and talks through it again, all with slightly varied phrasing. Not that it is bad, necessarily — if anything, it is realistic. I know, personally, it is easy to belabor a point, especially over the course of weeks / months. But reading it multiple times does become rather tedious.
March 16, 2024
This book presents well-developed characters, benefiting from their ties to the author's broader literary universe. However, the chemistry felt lacking between the main characters.
Isla's prank-based persona came across as cringeworthy and contrived, lacking authenticity.
While the pacing was initially enjoyable, boredom set in around the halfway mark due to unnecessary story elements and drawn-out scenes
Isla's prank-based persona came across as cringeworthy and contrived, lacking authenticity.
While the pacing was initially enjoyable, boredom set in around the halfway mark due to unnecessary story elements and drawn-out scenes
July 14, 2023
great read!
I can’t believe how much I had in common with these characters and I love that they live in my home town! Great character development and story.
I can’t believe how much I had in common with these characters and I love that they live in my home town! Great character development and story.
June 22, 2024
A better title would be "We Are Just the Worst."
Another option, based on all the facial tics with lips quirking and curling and brows furrowing, "Coping with Tardive Dyskinesia"
I was disappointed with the initial offering of "When the Past Finds You", so I shouldn't be surprised; but I did not expect to dislike Isla more than her stepmother, Lynda. Lynda, in the first book, abused her position of power to exploit a relationship with/then have sex with a subordinate named Wil. A woman she knew and half-raised from when Wil was 8 and Lynda was 29. From an "eww" factor, yes Lynda is worse, but having to deal with Isla the Pill, could have broken her.
In "the Worst", Isla is (I think totally unintentionally on the author's part) an unreliable narrator. Yes, her mother died when she was 4 and her father died when she was 12 or 13, but she comes off as if she was raised in a rundown trailer, padlocked in her room every night, and forced to fight her sister for the Pop Tart breakfast and the nightly Hot Pocket. Instead, it seems she had a rather normal middle-class upbringing by a step-mother who, while not doting and calling her brilliant (as her love interest Andry does incessantly) kept the home and cared for her in a situation that a less pathologically selfish person would have recognized as a terrible situation for all of them. Her chapters cannot be trusted.
How do we know this? Isla's sister, Ashlyn? Ashling? Acelyn? Aishling (I don't know, I had the audiobook and the narrator pronounced it a few ways)--she seemed fine with it. She called Lynda "Mom" without hesitation. Granted Ash seemed to have bad relationships because she was straight and, really, she doesn't make a physical appearance in this book (and only as a mute child in the previous book). So, it's possible she is a group delusion. In fact, if she had died with the father and was a ghost/mass hallucination, that would have made this book far more interesting.
However, as it is, a friend and I have decided that this book is actually a one woman play where Isla is locked in a padded room playing with dolls in her closet named Wil, Andry, Lynda, Ash$%@, Alice and so forth.
Anyway, to further support the notion that this is a fever dream, Isla is renowned as a prankster, yet the majority of the pranks committed are pathetic--literally of the "boo" variety. Andry enables Isla by telling her that pranks such as these are "brilliant". Isla is blown away by Andry's sophistication when she puts tape over Isla's mouse to subtly make it stop working. Isla is such a great prankster; she traps herself in the room where she set up the surprise then curls up into a ball and cries. Why? Lynda texted her! Can you imagine the horror of it all? A text! I'm surprised she didn't call 911. Admittedly, Isla's pranks escalate, but sadly not into the horror genre. First, she puts up hundreds of copies of photos of Andry across the school and in EVERY classroom. Then she gift wraps Andry's office--completely. EVERY item. Later, she fills Andry's car with what must be thousands of little rubber balls. Somewhere in there, she has her students risk explusion by faking
a fight simply to break into "Happy Birthday, Andry". We are supposed to believe everyone loves this stuff and isn't annoyed to the point of an aneurysm. I will say Andry's retaliatory pranks are more intelligent...but far fewer.
If this book was called "Prank War!", this would make sense. But Isla is an elementary school teacher. They don't make much money and they don't have a lot of free time during the school year. Yet, the amount of time and money she invests in carrying out those later pranks is mind-boggling. If she spent that time and resources into helping her students, she might actually be as great a teacher as they claim. Then again, they claim she is a great prankster, and she is not that either. I mean, I understand why the kids would love her since he behaves like a child and repeatedly ropes them into participating in pranks on the principal.
How bad is Isla as a teacher? This one subplot in the story makes it clear. A student named Alice has her father die from cancer (he dies unexpectedly yet has had it for years? I'm not sure Adrian understands how cancer works). Anyway, he dies during the school day and Andry wants Isla present as she is her primary teacher and has experienced the death of a parent as a child. This seems reasonable. Yet Isla (and Andry it seems) are shocked to hear about the death. A "great" teacher probably would have known that one of her children's parents was dying. Yet, Adrian writes it as if not even Alice's friends know what is happening. Regardless, Isla watches as the news is broken to Alice and instead of comforting the child, she makes it about herself and her ancient memory of her father, and flees outside so she can cry. Forgivable, perhaps, if she can pull herself together and go back inside--but no. She figures she can be there for Alice tomorrow (as if Alice was going to go to school the very next day). Then she spends the rest of the day being depressed (FOR HERSELF) which brings Andry over to coddle her and tell her how strong she is for running away from a grieving young girl.
That's bad enough. However, eventually she does talk to Alice and tells her about her mom dying and then her dad. She says it's not, but in part it does come across like some sort of childish, "I've had it worse than you, crybaby!" Still, she says she understands Alice's grief and will be there for her.
ASIDE: Isla, and be extension Adrian, declares to Andry that Alice will be angry with her father. Alice does reveal she is, indeed, angry with her father for dying. What pop psychology crap was Adrian reading that led her to think everyone gets angry at the person who died? At best, it's a lazy movie cliche. If the person died because of their bad decisions or reckless behavior, I'd understand being angry with them at times. However, if the person was murdered, died from negligence of others, or an "act of god" like a disease or tornado then...no. Angry at the unfairness of life or the stupidity and cruelty of others sure. Sustained anger at the victim? No. Unlessssss-- one is pathologically selfish and self-obsessed and takes random events as personal attacks.
Now, Isla tells Alice she will be there for her. Okay, that's a good start. Alice's mom thanks Isla (off-page). So, what happens the first time Alice needs her? Let's see: Alice comes to Isla crying. Not about her father, but because her best friend is leaving her too. Oh no! But wait, this bestie doesn't go to their school. She goes to a school across town because her mom is a teacher there, and they are leaving because the father is military and being PCS'd (Permanent Change of Station).
Does Isla comfort Alice? Nope. She immediately stops thinking about Alice and starts plotting. There's an opening at this other school! She has the inside track because it's not even announced yet! She applies IMMEDIATELY. She is shocked when she learns that the principal at this school is Chris, Andry's ex-wife. GASP! Much like her lack of knowledge of Alice's father dying, Isla who has known Andry for 8 years and lusted for her for months, doesn't know where Chris works? There are only 30 elementary schools in Cheyenne, Wyoming and barely a 3% LGBTQ population. Yet, two of the schools are headed up by lesbians who have doctorates. Isla has been a part of this educational system for as long as she's known Andry. This is something that people would have mentioned, especially when the divorce happened. Teachers talk.
So, even though her kids adore her, and Alice has lost her father and is losing her best friend, the "great teacher" who knows exactly how traumatic such a loss can be, convinces herself that her leaving mid-year after making promises to be there, is "for the best". For whom? Oh, for Isla of course. There's not even a scene where she explains this to her students or simply says goodbye. She simply doesn't come back after the break. Andry enables once again. She admits, after she thinks their unethical relationship might be revealed, that doing the move before the summer was "incredibly stupid" but once she learns Chris will keep the secret to herself, she's okay again. She couldn't be happier that Isla is leaving and Isla couldn't be happier to be leaving. Neither mentions that, "Oh, Isla's students don't have a teacher." "Oh, Isla's students will probably be devastated." "Oh, Alice's very life may be in jeopardy from a third traumatic loss in as many months."
None of that happens. All that happens--ALL that matters--is that Isla and Andry can have sex without fear of losing their jobs. Andry says Isla is passionate about her kids, yet the first time she is pressured, she couldn't sacrifice a few months and behave like a caring adult because having sex was more important.
Picking nits: As noted at the beginning, the author uses repetitive phrases. Brows are furrowed at least once a page it seems. Lips curl into smiles every damn time. The less said about "Forever Friend" the better. Apart from repetitious, phrases like "lips curl into a smile" are bloated. There is no need to describe the visual mechanics of a smile. A smile, by definition, has lips curling. Why say lips at all? What other body part would smile? Use words to describe the smile (sardonic, wry, half whatever) but don't describe how the smile happens. Now, if her "nose curled into a smile" I might be intrigued at the body horror.
Another option, based on all the facial tics with lips quirking and curling and brows furrowing, "Coping with Tardive Dyskinesia"
I was disappointed with the initial offering of "When the Past Finds You", so I shouldn't be surprised; but I did not expect to dislike Isla more than her stepmother, Lynda. Lynda, in the first book, abused her position of power to exploit a relationship with/then have sex with a subordinate named Wil. A woman she knew and half-raised from when Wil was 8 and Lynda was 29. From an "eww" factor, yes Lynda is worse, but having to deal with Isla the Pill, could have broken her.
In "the Worst", Isla is (I think totally unintentionally on the author's part) an unreliable narrator. Yes, her mother died when she was 4 and her father died when she was 12 or 13, but she comes off as if she was raised in a rundown trailer, padlocked in her room every night, and forced to fight her sister for the Pop Tart breakfast and the nightly Hot Pocket. Instead, it seems she had a rather normal middle-class upbringing by a step-mother who, while not doting and calling her brilliant (as her love interest Andry does incessantly) kept the home and cared for her in a situation that a less pathologically selfish person would have recognized as a terrible situation for all of them. Her chapters cannot be trusted.
How do we know this? Isla's sister, Ashlyn? Ashling? Acelyn? Aishling (I don't know, I had the audiobook and the narrator pronounced it a few ways)--she seemed fine with it. She called Lynda "Mom" without hesitation. Granted Ash seemed to have bad relationships because she was straight and, really, she doesn't make a physical appearance in this book (and only as a mute child in the previous book). So, it's possible she is a group delusion. In fact, if she had died with the father and was a ghost/mass hallucination, that would have made this book far more interesting.
However, as it is, a friend and I have decided that this book is actually a one woman play where Isla is locked in a padded room playing with dolls in her closet named Wil, Andry, Lynda, Ash$%@, Alice and so forth.
Anyway, to further support the notion that this is a fever dream, Isla is renowned as a prankster, yet the majority of the pranks committed are pathetic--literally of the "boo" variety. Andry enables Isla by telling her that pranks such as these are "brilliant". Isla is blown away by Andry's sophistication when she puts tape over Isla's mouse to subtly make it stop working. Isla is such a great prankster; she traps herself in the room where she set up the surprise then curls up into a ball and cries. Why? Lynda texted her! Can you imagine the horror of it all? A text! I'm surprised she didn't call 911. Admittedly, Isla's pranks escalate, but sadly not into the horror genre. First, she puts up hundreds of copies of photos of Andry across the school and in EVERY classroom. Then she gift wraps Andry's office--completely. EVERY item. Later, she fills Andry's car with what must be thousands of little rubber balls. Somewhere in there, she has her students risk explusion by faking
a fight simply to break into "Happy Birthday, Andry". We are supposed to believe everyone loves this stuff and isn't annoyed to the point of an aneurysm. I will say Andry's retaliatory pranks are more intelligent...but far fewer.
If this book was called "Prank War!", this would make sense. But Isla is an elementary school teacher. They don't make much money and they don't have a lot of free time during the school year. Yet, the amount of time and money she invests in carrying out those later pranks is mind-boggling. If she spent that time and resources into helping her students, she might actually be as great a teacher as they claim. Then again, they claim she is a great prankster, and she is not that either. I mean, I understand why the kids would love her since he behaves like a child and repeatedly ropes them into participating in pranks on the principal.
How bad is Isla as a teacher? This one subplot in the story makes it clear. A student named Alice has her father die from cancer (he dies unexpectedly yet has had it for years? I'm not sure Adrian understands how cancer works). Anyway, he dies during the school day and Andry wants Isla present as she is her primary teacher and has experienced the death of a parent as a child. This seems reasonable. Yet Isla (and Andry it seems) are shocked to hear about the death. A "great" teacher probably would have known that one of her children's parents was dying. Yet, Adrian writes it as if not even Alice's friends know what is happening. Regardless, Isla watches as the news is broken to Alice and instead of comforting the child, she makes it about herself and her ancient memory of her father, and flees outside so she can cry. Forgivable, perhaps, if she can pull herself together and go back inside--but no. She figures she can be there for Alice tomorrow (as if Alice was going to go to school the very next day). Then she spends the rest of the day being depressed (FOR HERSELF) which brings Andry over to coddle her and tell her how strong she is for running away from a grieving young girl.
That's bad enough. However, eventually she does talk to Alice and tells her about her mom dying and then her dad. She says it's not, but in part it does come across like some sort of childish, "I've had it worse than you, crybaby!" Still, she says she understands Alice's grief and will be there for her.
ASIDE: Isla, and be extension Adrian, declares to Andry that Alice will be angry with her father. Alice does reveal she is, indeed, angry with her father for dying. What pop psychology crap was Adrian reading that led her to think everyone gets angry at the person who died? At best, it's a lazy movie cliche. If the person died because of their bad decisions or reckless behavior, I'd understand being angry with them at times. However, if the person was murdered, died from negligence of others, or an "act of god" like a disease or tornado then...no. Angry at the unfairness of life or the stupidity and cruelty of others sure. Sustained anger at the victim? No. Unlessssss-- one is pathologically selfish and self-obsessed and takes random events as personal attacks.
Now, Isla tells Alice she will be there for her. Okay, that's a good start. Alice's mom thanks Isla (off-page). So, what happens the first time Alice needs her? Let's see: Alice comes to Isla crying. Not about her father, but because her best friend is leaving her too. Oh no! But wait, this bestie doesn't go to their school. She goes to a school across town because her mom is a teacher there, and they are leaving because the father is military and being PCS'd (Permanent Change of Station).
Does Isla comfort Alice? Nope. She immediately stops thinking about Alice and starts plotting. There's an opening at this other school! She has the inside track because it's not even announced yet! She applies IMMEDIATELY. She is shocked when she learns that the principal at this school is Chris, Andry's ex-wife. GASP! Much like her lack of knowledge of Alice's father dying, Isla who has known Andry for 8 years and lusted for her for months, doesn't know where Chris works? There are only 30 elementary schools in Cheyenne, Wyoming and barely a 3% LGBTQ population. Yet, two of the schools are headed up by lesbians who have doctorates. Isla has been a part of this educational system for as long as she's known Andry. This is something that people would have mentioned, especially when the divorce happened. Teachers talk.
So, even though her kids adore her, and Alice has lost her father and is losing her best friend, the "great teacher" who knows exactly how traumatic such a loss can be, convinces herself that her leaving mid-year after making promises to be there, is "for the best". For whom? Oh, for Isla of course. There's not even a scene where she explains this to her students or simply says goodbye. She simply doesn't come back after the break. Andry enables once again. She admits, after she thinks their unethical relationship might be revealed, that doing the move before the summer was "incredibly stupid" but once she learns Chris will keep the secret to herself, she's okay again. She couldn't be happier that Isla is leaving and Isla couldn't be happier to be leaving. Neither mentions that, "Oh, Isla's students don't have a teacher." "Oh, Isla's students will probably be devastated." "Oh, Alice's very life may be in jeopardy from a third traumatic loss in as many months."
None of that happens. All that happens--ALL that matters--is that Isla and Andry can have sex without fear of losing their jobs. Andry says Isla is passionate about her kids, yet the first time she is pressured, she couldn't sacrifice a few months and behave like a caring adult because having sex was more important.
Picking nits: As noted at the beginning, the author uses repetitive phrases. Brows are furrowed at least once a page it seems. Lips curl into smiles every damn time. The less said about "Forever Friend" the better. Apart from repetitious, phrases like "lips curl into a smile" are bloated. There is no need to describe the visual mechanics of a smile. A smile, by definition, has lips curling. Why say lips at all? What other body part would smile? Use words to describe the smile (sardonic, wry, half whatever) but don't describe how the smile happens. Now, if her "nose curled into a smile" I might be intrigued at the body horror.
February 11, 2024
2.5-3 stars.
Love Me At My Worst was my first Adrian J. Smith book. I have the first of the series as an audiobook waiting... I hope it's better because the author has multiple books I'm interested in reading. This book did not impress me.
First of all, the timeline of Andry's life does not make sense. She's 40/41, has 17/18 year old daughter, started dating her ex at 19, has doctor level degree, worked under her ex-wife but changed schools so they could date... It just does not add up realistically. Did she start working as a teacher before she was 19 or what? She should have been at least 5 years older but I guess the author didn't want make Isla too old to keep the age gap reasonable. Why did the kid need to be 18 years old to make the story to work?
Secondly, those 'pranks' the main characters executed were both ridiculous and childish. Completely unrealistic as well. I guess I'm both too serious and humourless, and anxious about carefree spending of resources (stuff like balls made of plastic and balloon).
Love Me At My Worst was my first Adrian J. Smith book. I have the first of the series as an audiobook waiting... I hope it's better because the author has multiple books I'm interested in reading. This book did not impress me.
First of all, the timeline of Andry's life does not make sense. She's 40/41, has 17/18 year old daughter, started dating her ex at 19, has doctor level degree, worked under her ex-wife but changed schools so they could date... It just does not add up realistically. Did she start working as a teacher before she was 19 or what? She should have been at least 5 years older but I guess the author didn't want make Isla too old to keep the age gap reasonable. Why did the kid need to be 18 years old to make the story to work?
Secondly, those 'pranks' the main characters executed were both ridiculous and childish. Completely unrealistic as well. I guess I'm both too serious and humourless, and anxious about carefree spending of resources (stuff like balls made of plastic and balloon).
June 30, 2023
Adrian J. Smith
Love Me At My Worst
Arc
New Release
Isla was feeling completely lost ever since her best friend started dating her stepmother. Without her, she felt an overwhelming sense of loneliness and a desperate need to make new connections.
Andry, on the other hand, was also going through a major transition in her life. With her only daughter about to leave for college, she was grappling with the idea of an empty house and the imminent adjustment to life without her. As she applied for schools herself, the thought of her daughter's absence weighed heavily on her.
In an attempt to sort out her complicated emotions, Isla turned to therapy. The change in her relationship with her best friend was difficult to accept. She longed to preserve their bond, but couldn't seem to move beyond the feeling of betrayal.
Isla's backstory added another layer of pain to her current situation. Abandoned as a young girl after her father's passing, she struggled to find solace in her stepmother's inability to cope with the loss. Now, with her best friend dating her stepmother, Isla felt isolated and alone. But Andry, with her kindness, gentleness, and understanding, had the potential to pull her out of the darkness.
The chemistry between Isla and Andry was undeniable, and as their story progressed, it became increasingly difficult for them to deny their feelings. As they opened up to each other and shared their struggles, their connection grew deeper. However, their relationship faced challenges due to their professional roles – Andry being the principal while Isla was her subordinate.
This story delved into the complexities of trauma from childhood and its lasting impact on adulthood. It reminded readers that the pain we experience as children often carries with us into our adult lives, despite our attempts to deny it.
The book also explored the concept of perspective in life. Each person's view of situations, relationships, places, and even things is unique due to their individual backgrounds and experiences. It emphasized the importance of empathy and understanding for what others have been through.
I must say, this book was a magnificent work of art. The author's previous works have always resonated with me, but this one struck a chord in a different way. It tackled real-life struggles that we all face in today's society. I highly recommend this recently released book, available on Amazon. It is a rich and captivating story that I believe you will thoroughly enjoy.
Love Me At My Worst
Arc
New Release
Isla was feeling completely lost ever since her best friend started dating her stepmother. Without her, she felt an overwhelming sense of loneliness and a desperate need to make new connections.
Andry, on the other hand, was also going through a major transition in her life. With her only daughter about to leave for college, she was grappling with the idea of an empty house and the imminent adjustment to life without her. As she applied for schools herself, the thought of her daughter's absence weighed heavily on her.
In an attempt to sort out her complicated emotions, Isla turned to therapy. The change in her relationship with her best friend was difficult to accept. She longed to preserve their bond, but couldn't seem to move beyond the feeling of betrayal.
Isla's backstory added another layer of pain to her current situation. Abandoned as a young girl after her father's passing, she struggled to find solace in her stepmother's inability to cope with the loss. Now, with her best friend dating her stepmother, Isla felt isolated and alone. But Andry, with her kindness, gentleness, and understanding, had the potential to pull her out of the darkness.
The chemistry between Isla and Andry was undeniable, and as their story progressed, it became increasingly difficult for them to deny their feelings. As they opened up to each other and shared their struggles, their connection grew deeper. However, their relationship faced challenges due to their professional roles – Andry being the principal while Isla was her subordinate.
This story delved into the complexities of trauma from childhood and its lasting impact on adulthood. It reminded readers that the pain we experience as children often carries with us into our adult lives, despite our attempts to deny it.
The book also explored the concept of perspective in life. Each person's view of situations, relationships, places, and even things is unique due to their individual backgrounds and experiences. It emphasized the importance of empathy and understanding for what others have been through.
I must say, this book was a magnificent work of art. The author's previous works have always resonated with me, but this one struck a chord in a different way. It tackled real-life struggles that we all face in today's society. I highly recommend this recently released book, available on Amazon. It is a rich and captivating story that I believe you will thoroughly enjoy.
April 23, 2025
Stars: 5 Stars
Format: Audiobook
Narrator: Lori Prince and Quinn Riley
Series: When the Past Finds You Book 3
Steam Level: Steamy
I read this for the I Heart Sapphic 2025 Reading Challenge for the prompt Divorced Character.
This was an absolutely wonderful book. I zoomed through this audiobook to the point that I stayed up on a work night to finish it. No regrets.
Quick Thoughts:
- Something that I just can’t get over is how working through personal trauma done, and how much CONSTANT WORK Isla puts into working through her issues with Lynda, the trauma of her childhood, and her shifting friendship with Wil. It’s not a one and done everything is perfect, it’s messy and takes a conscious effort to improve
- With this book you REALLY need to read “When the Past Finds You” first to understand everything that is happening
- I didn’t know how to feel about Chris at first. I accidentally read “Inside These Halls” (the next book) early last year and liked her. I eventually ended up liking her here too in the end
- This book does not pull any punches with depicting the issues that comes from a failed marriage that suffered from alcohol abuse
- Isla and Andry are perfectly matched in a way that I can’t imagine anyone else better for them
- I absolutely loved the pranks that were pulled. They were wholesome, fun, and brought others into that fun. Too much entertainment depict pranks as mean and humiliating so these were fantastic (except the spider one, I have nightmares about that one)
- No third act break up!
- Adrian J. Smith writes such heartwarming epilogues (I gasped at the thing given)
- Yay Lori Prince and Quinn Riley are back! I love these two together because they both have distinctive voices (tone and diction) that makes it easy to instantly know which character’s POV you’re following. And they are just so much fun to listen to
Overall this book was fun, full of heart, and had a solid core of hope for the future. I am going to lose a lot of sleep to read the rest of this series as fast as I can. Good thing I stocked up on energy drinks.
Format: Audiobook
Narrator: Lori Prince and Quinn Riley
Series: When the Past Finds You Book 3
Steam Level: Steamy
I read this for the I Heart Sapphic 2025 Reading Challenge for the prompt Divorced Character.
This was an absolutely wonderful book. I zoomed through this audiobook to the point that I stayed up on a work night to finish it. No regrets.
Quick Thoughts:
- Something that I just can’t get over is how working through personal trauma done, and how much CONSTANT WORK Isla puts into working through her issues with Lynda, the trauma of her childhood, and her shifting friendship with Wil. It’s not a one and done everything is perfect, it’s messy and takes a conscious effort to improve
- With this book you REALLY need to read “When the Past Finds You” first to understand everything that is happening
- I didn’t know how to feel about Chris at first. I accidentally read “Inside These Halls” (the next book) early last year and liked her. I eventually ended up liking her here too in the end
- This book does not pull any punches with depicting the issues that comes from a failed marriage that suffered from alcohol abuse
- Isla and Andry are perfectly matched in a way that I can’t imagine anyone else better for them
- I absolutely loved the pranks that were pulled. They were wholesome, fun, and brought others into that fun. Too much entertainment depict pranks as mean and humiliating so these were fantastic (except the spider one, I have nightmares about that one)
- No third act break up!
- Adrian J. Smith writes such heartwarming epilogues (I gasped at the thing given)
- Yay Lori Prince and Quinn Riley are back! I love these two together because they both have distinctive voices (tone and diction) that makes it easy to instantly know which character’s POV you’re following. And they are just so much fun to listen to
Overall this book was fun, full of heart, and had a solid core of hope for the future. I am going to lose a lot of sleep to read the rest of this series as fast as I can. Good thing I stocked up on energy drinks.
December 2, 2025
a sensible, sentimental romance where there's nothing really taboo or dramatic happening
yeah, I didn't expect it from this author either
I mean yes, Andra is the principal and Isla is one of her teachers, which isn't great. but once they realise what's happening Isla starts looking to transfer to a new school before it affects them professionally. they perhaps move a little faster in the relationship than HR would like while Isla is working on transferring out, but it's all very above board for an Adrian J Smith novel. though I'm pretty sure everyone at the school recognised that Isla and Andra's elaborate and deeply personally involved pranks were not the actions of two women who aren't in love with each other
on the personal side of things, Isla and Andra both have stuff and they support each other with said stuff in a very reasonable and supportive way, like you'd expect two people in love to do. Isla has everything following on from When The Past Finds You - there's no self-help book on your stepmum dating your lifelong best friend, not to mention all the parental stuff with Lynda. and Andra is negotiating co-parenting with her ex-wife. and it's all very sappy and sane and reasonable
one conversation I did feel like I was missing is Isla talking to Alice about transferring out of the school? I mean I assume they exchanged contact details or something, it just felt like Isla was a support person for Alice and then almost immediately transferred out of the school
yeah, I didn't expect it from this author either
I mean yes, Andra is the principal and Isla is one of her teachers, which isn't great. but once they realise what's happening Isla starts looking to transfer to a new school before it affects them professionally. they perhaps move a little faster in the relationship than HR would like while Isla is working on transferring out, but it's all very above board for an Adrian J Smith novel. though I'm pretty sure everyone at the school recognised that Isla and Andra's elaborate and deeply personally involved pranks were not the actions of two women who aren't in love with each other
on the personal side of things, Isla and Andra both have stuff and they support each other with said stuff in a very reasonable and supportive way, like you'd expect two people in love to do. Isla has everything following on from When The Past Finds You - there's no self-help book on your stepmum dating your lifelong best friend, not to mention all the parental stuff with Lynda. and Andra is negotiating co-parenting with her ex-wife. and it's all very sappy and sane and reasonable
one conversation I did feel like I was missing is Isla talking to Alice about transferring out of the school? I mean I assume they exchanged contact details or something, it just felt like Isla was a support person for Alice and then almost immediately transferred out of the school
February 22, 2024
Isla's bright, energetic, and mischievous persona in the schoolroom masks the pain she carries from recent upheavals and long-term grief. Andry, her principal, is learning to navigate her life post-divorce and as the mother of a soon-to-be college student. Their growing friendship outside the school relieves the loneliness both women feel, but it also opens the door to attraction, tenderness, and the threat of heartache.
Love Me At My Worst is a warm and moving story about emotional healing, the complexities of various relationships, and the power of choosing vulnerability with the right person. Isla and Andry are wonderfully authentic characters with real and relatable challenges that endear them to the reader. As their romance slowly grows, it isn't difficult to see how well they fit. But unlike with some romances, the connection between Isla and Andry is not portrayed as a blanket solution to all of their problems, but rather as a catalyst for the growth and healing they each must do as individuals. Andry still must come to terms with her broken marriage, and Isla still has to make peace with the past and her family (her stepmother Linda and best friend Wil). The way they learn to take these difficult journeys with help from each other rather than doing it alone is truly beautiful.
Any reader who enjoys sapphic romances with depth, passion, and a splash of humor will adore Love Me At My Worst.
Love Me At My Worst is a warm and moving story about emotional healing, the complexities of various relationships, and the power of choosing vulnerability with the right person. Isla and Andry are wonderfully authentic characters with real and relatable challenges that endear them to the reader. As their romance slowly grows, it isn't difficult to see how well they fit. But unlike with some romances, the connection between Isla and Andry is not portrayed as a blanket solution to all of their problems, but rather as a catalyst for the growth and healing they each must do as individuals. Andry still must come to terms with her broken marriage, and Isla still has to make peace with the past and her family (her stepmother Linda and best friend Wil). The way they learn to take these difficult journeys with help from each other rather than doing it alone is truly beautiful.
Any reader who enjoys sapphic romances with depth, passion, and a splash of humor will adore Love Me At My Worst.
December 18, 2025
#Slow Burn
#Friends To Lovers
#Workplace Romance
#Dealing with Grief
#Complicated Family life
#Age Gap
#Sapphic Romance
Officially in Book-Hangover mode!
Where to begin...
“Love Me At My Worst” Is a heartbreakingly wonderful story that deals with grief and trauma in such a delicately beautiful way, with humour, trust and true connection.
My heart broke many times over for Isla. Someone so full of love and light- hearted pranks carrying the heaviest weight beneath the surface. Hiding her grief behind a mask until she can’t.
Andry’s steady presence and friendship is beautifully written, and when their relationship blossoms into something more, it sinks deep into your soul!
Author, Adrian J Smith has managed to take the aches of the heart and deliver it to the world in a breath-taking way.
Everyone processes grief differently, but I felt every bite of it in this story, and it’s stayed with me long after finishing the audiobook.
Don’t get me wrong, I also laughed over the pranks, and adored the way Isla and Andry’s relationship builds, it’s not all heavy! But the tone of healing is powerful.
The way Quinn Riley and Lori Prince, breathe life into these characters is incredible. Their genuineness and empathy just oozes out of them, and you find yourself wanting to reach in to the book and just hug them.
#SapphicRomance
#Bookhangover
#Friends To Lovers
#Workplace Romance
#Dealing with Grief
#Complicated Family life
#Age Gap
#Sapphic Romance
Officially in Book-Hangover mode!
Where to begin...
“Love Me At My Worst” Is a heartbreakingly wonderful story that deals with grief and trauma in such a delicately beautiful way, with humour, trust and true connection.
My heart broke many times over for Isla. Someone so full of love and light- hearted pranks carrying the heaviest weight beneath the surface. Hiding her grief behind a mask until she can’t.
Andry’s steady presence and friendship is beautifully written, and when their relationship blossoms into something more, it sinks deep into your soul!
Author, Adrian J Smith has managed to take the aches of the heart and deliver it to the world in a breath-taking way.
Everyone processes grief differently, but I felt every bite of it in this story, and it’s stayed with me long after finishing the audiobook.
Don’t get me wrong, I also laughed over the pranks, and adored the way Isla and Andry’s relationship builds, it’s not all heavy! But the tone of healing is powerful.
The way Quinn Riley and Lori Prince, breathe life into these characters is incredible. Their genuineness and empathy just oozes out of them, and you find yourself wanting to reach in to the book and just hug them.
#SapphicRomance
#Bookhangover
April 1, 2024
I really enjoyed this book and I wish I hadn't put it off as long as I did. The whole concept of a prank war just seemed so juvenile. The actual pranks were almost all very wholesome and sweet though. They definitely weren't typical pranks for the most part, and I enjoyed them quite a bit. I loved getting to know Isla after reading about her is Wil's book a while back. Andry was a very enjoyable character as well. It would have been nice to get to know some of the other side characters better as well, maybe to actually interact with Isla's sister for once, but the book still held its own.
It was amazing and wonderful to see Isla work through her family drama and for healing to take place between her and her stepmom. Especially after reading how bad things were between them all in the first book. Also, glad to see therapy and healthy mental health choices being made and represented positively.
No third act breakup! Yay! Everything developed in a much more slowburn manner and there wasn't really a need for one. Just very sweet, wholesome pranks and lovely kisses and pining to tide you through the book.
It was amazing and wonderful to see Isla work through her family drama and for healing to take place between her and her stepmom. Especially after reading how bad things were between them all in the first book. Also, glad to see therapy and healthy mental health choices being made and represented positively.
No third act breakup! Yay! Everything developed in a much more slowburn manner and there wasn't really a need for one. Just very sweet, wholesome pranks and lovely kisses and pining to tide you through the book.
July 31, 2025
This was an enjoyable age gap, work proximity sapphic romance. I get the impression that this is part of a series but not 100% sure, if there is a connected story that may have been slightly good to read but I didn’t feel it impaired the storey.
We have Isla a slightly troubled teacher, I say troubled loosely as she is dealing with her best friend dating her step mother and feeling generally lost with a touch of anxiety and depression. She works for Andry her principal who just continues to recover for her divorce, being an adult ex-wife with a teenage daughter whilst trying to deal with Chris her ex-wife drinking not ideal.
Throughout the story they grow closer and bam a relationship blossoms. It is gentle with two people struggling to recover from their pasts relationships wife, step mother and forever friend. This is well written but I really wanted this to have a bit more action and get to the point it just seems to drag the same issues throughout! Plus there are pranks which is a nice side story but a tad random! Enjoyable but maybe try the other books first for this one!
We have Isla a slightly troubled teacher, I say troubled loosely as she is dealing with her best friend dating her step mother and feeling generally lost with a touch of anxiety and depression. She works for Andry her principal who just continues to recover for her divorce, being an adult ex-wife with a teenage daughter whilst trying to deal with Chris her ex-wife drinking not ideal.
Throughout the story they grow closer and bam a relationship blossoms. It is gentle with two people struggling to recover from their pasts relationships wife, step mother and forever friend. This is well written but I really wanted this to have a bit more action and get to the point it just seems to drag the same issues throughout! Plus there are pranks which is a nice side story but a tad random! Enjoyable but maybe try the other books first for this one!
July 5, 2023
I've never read a book by this author I didn't fall in love with but I think this has made it's way into my top 5 of hers.
I absolutely adored these characters, especially Andry. She had been through a lot and her love and care for her daughter is just so palpable.
Isla's pranks were just so awesome. The amount of planning and her execution was on point! I love how she thought of ways to best make Andry laugh.
This books tackles a couple of heavy issues but in a really sensitive and non-judgmental manner. I enjoyed how Isla's issues were worked through and she grew as a person. The story makes you laugh a lot and cry a little. it's so heart-warming in so many ways
This is such a good read and ties in well with Don't Quit Your Daydream and When the Past Finds You. They are all fabulous books!
I absolutely adored these characters, especially Andry. She had been through a lot and her love and care for her daughter is just so palpable.
Isla's pranks were just so awesome. The amount of planning and her execution was on point! I love how she thought of ways to best make Andry laugh.
This books tackles a couple of heavy issues but in a really sensitive and non-judgmental manner. I enjoyed how Isla's issues were worked through and she grew as a person. The story makes you laugh a lot and cry a little. it's so heart-warming in so many ways
This is such a good read and ties in well with Don't Quit Your Daydream and When the Past Finds You. They are all fabulous books!
July 9, 2023
A Definite Slow Burn Love Story!
So I realized half way in I should have read “When The Past Finds You” to understand Wil and Lynda’s relationship to Isla. That’s okay I will now. But this story had a lot going for it. Isla, a single teacher in her late twenties is a prankster. They hide the constant turmoil her life is in. She loves to pull them on her principal, Andry. Andry is a forty year old divorced mother of a seventeen year old. With all that she has been going through with her ex wife, the pranks that Isla pulls are the highlight of her life right now. As these two get closer and feelings develop, both are going through some heavy stuff. Is it worth it? Adrian J Smith captures two emotionally charged women who want more in their life but not sure if their worth the trouble, in a wonderful love story.
So I realized half way in I should have read “When The Past Finds You” to understand Wil and Lynda’s relationship to Isla. That’s okay I will now. But this story had a lot going for it. Isla, a single teacher in her late twenties is a prankster. They hide the constant turmoil her life is in. She loves to pull them on her principal, Andry. Andry is a forty year old divorced mother of a seventeen year old. With all that she has been going through with her ex wife, the pranks that Isla pulls are the highlight of her life right now. As these two get closer and feelings develop, both are going through some heavy stuff. Is it worth it? Adrian J Smith captures two emotionally charged women who want more in their life but not sure if their worth the trouble, in a wonderful love story.
January 22, 2024
Intense, in a good way
Adrian J Smith does not mess around. Her characters are real, real people with real people baggage. What I love about her work is that she shows us how they work through that baggage, not just the mental part, but the action part too.
This is a great novel about two women slowly falling in love while dealing with life issues. There's no third act manufactured bullsh*t with an abrupt HEA afterwards. Instead, we watch them take risks, decide to respond differently than they've done before, oh, and, communicate. Yes, wonder of wonders, they actually talk about their trauma and fears. Who knew that works! (eyeroll)
So, if you'd like to read a novel about two women overcoming fears, working through trauma, falling in love, and pranking each other silky, read on!
Adrian J Smith does not mess around. Her characters are real, real people with real people baggage. What I love about her work is that she shows us how they work through that baggage, not just the mental part, but the action part too.
This is a great novel about two women slowly falling in love while dealing with life issues. There's no third act manufactured bullsh*t with an abrupt HEA afterwards. Instead, we watch them take risks, decide to respond differently than they've done before, oh, and, communicate. Yes, wonder of wonders, they actually talk about their trauma and fears. Who knew that works! (eyeroll)
So, if you'd like to read a novel about two women overcoming fears, working through trauma, falling in love, and pranking each other silky, read on!
October 18, 2025
A sweet age gap workplace romance presenting emotional healing and, dare I say, even transformation…
While there are conflicts in this book, they are not really the barriers standing in the couple's path to happiness. They have to work on their own acceptance of their life circumstances before they get together, which they do. It shows personal development and growth, and it's beautiful. But the only conflict standing in their way is solved quite simply.
So, no complexity or hardship here, the relationship itself just needed time. I wish real-life could be so easy 😀
The pacing was good but the plot did not peak at any point. I found it quite flat, occasionally interrupted by a prank tale... I didn't get engaged in the story because of that, it didn't grab me that much…
Rating: 3 stars
While there are conflicts in this book, they are not really the barriers standing in the couple's path to happiness. They have to work on their own acceptance of their life circumstances before they get together, which they do. It shows personal development and growth, and it's beautiful. But the only conflict standing in their way is solved quite simply.
So, no complexity or hardship here, the relationship itself just needed time. I wish real-life could be so easy 😀
The pacing was good but the plot did not peak at any point. I found it quite flat, occasionally interrupted by a prank tale... I didn't get engaged in the story because of that, it didn't grab me that much…
Rating: 3 stars
November 5, 2025
Adrian J. Smith molded the writing for this book to perfectly fit the MC’s, Isla, and Andry.
To understand the dynamic between Isla, Wil, and Lynda in this book, you would need to have read the book, When the Past Finds You.
Isla is a twenty something teacher and Andry is a forty something principal, divorced with a teenage daughter.
Isla loves to play practical pranks, plays them on her principle, and uses them to hide her pain. Her students love her, and she involves them helping her with the pranks.
Andry is still dealing with troublesome ex wife and is trying to keep the peace between her daughter and her ex-wife.
This story is funny, sad, and will have you laughing aloud.
Join in the fun and sometimes the sadness of the MC’s!
I received an ARC from the author
This review was posted awhile back under a different email address that can't be accessed anymore!
To understand the dynamic between Isla, Wil, and Lynda in this book, you would need to have read the book, When the Past Finds You.
Isla is a twenty something teacher and Andry is a forty something principal, divorced with a teenage daughter.
Isla loves to play practical pranks, plays them on her principle, and uses them to hide her pain. Her students love her, and she involves them helping her with the pranks.
Andry is still dealing with troublesome ex wife and is trying to keep the peace between her daughter and her ex-wife.
This story is funny, sad, and will have you laughing aloud.
Join in the fun and sometimes the sadness of the MC’s!
I received an ARC from the author
This review was posted awhile back under a different email address that can't be accessed anymore!
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