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Camelot #4
Making It Last
RITA finalist Ruthie Knox returns with a brand-new eBook original novella, the finale of her delightfully sexy Camelot series!
A hotel bar. A sexy stranger. A night of passion. There’s a part of Amber Mazzara that wants those things, wants to have a moment — just one — where life isn’t a complicated tangle of house and husband and kids and careers. Then, after a long, exhausting “vacation” with her family, her husband surprises her with a gift: a few days on the beach . . . alone.
Only she won’t be alone long, because a handsome man just bought her a drink. He’s cool, he’s confident, and he wants to take Amber to bed and keep her there for days. Lucky for them both, he’s her husband. He’s only got a few days in Jamaica to make her wildest desires come true, but if he can pull it off, there’s reason to believe that this fantasy can last a lifetime.
A hotel bar. A sexy stranger. A night of passion. There’s a part of Amber Mazzara that wants those things, wants to have a moment — just one — where life isn’t a complicated tangle of house and husband and kids and careers. Then, after a long, exhausting “vacation” with her family, her husband surprises her with a gift: a few days on the beach . . . alone.
Only she won’t be alone long, because a handsome man just bought her a drink. He’s cool, he’s confident, and he wants to take Amber to bed and keep her there for days. Lucky for them both, he’s her husband. He’s only got a few days in Jamaica to make her wildest desires come true, but if he can pull it off, there’s reason to believe that this fantasy can last a lifetime.
151 pages, Kindle Edition
First published July 15, 2013
17 people are currently reading
1251 people want to read
About the author
Ruthie Knox
47 books1,402 followersRuthie Knox is the critically acclaimed, New York Times bestselling author of more than a dozen novels. She writes both mystery and romance, usually with co-author Annie Mare. You can find Ruthie's books under the pen names Ruthie Knox (mystery and het romance), Mae Marvel (queer romance), and Robin York (New Adult romance). Ruthie and Annie are married and live with two teenagers, two dogs, multiple fish, two glorious cats, four hermit crabs, and a bazillion plants in a very old house with a garden.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 234 reviews
July 22, 2013
5 Stars! What an emotional journey!
A wonderful portrayal of a married couple that lose each other to the stress and demands of everyday life. This was like a punch to the gut for me and I could relate to it on so many levels.
I loved Tony and Amber in How to Misbehave, and to see where they were at 13+ years later, broke my heart. Although still very much in love, they were living separate lives, not intentionally, but it’s what happens when real life interferes with the fairytale. It’s so easy to lose sight of what’s really important, think you’re doing what’s best for your spouse and family, when sometimes less is more.
Initially I thought Amber was being a bit selfish, but as the story plays out and she tells Tony how she feels about him, what she wants out of life, I knew she had his best interest at heart. Through talking, listening and intimacy…very hot intimate time…Tony and Amber find their way back to each other. Tony begins to understand that Amber needs more out of life than being a wife and mother. He also begins to realize that Amber wants him, not a big house; she wants her husband and the father of her children to be a part of their lives, not someone just passing through.
I thought Ruthie did great job bringing real life circumstances into the story, the economy and the crash of the housing market and the impact that it had on businesses and families. Marriage is hard work without all the extras, but when children enter the picture and finances go awry, it can wreak havoc. Only the strong and the couples willing to compromise survive, and I was happy to see Tony and Amber get their happily ever after!
This series was truly unique, in that it started out with Tony and Amber and ended with them, both novellas, and my two favorite books in the series!
So, now I need to know, are we going to hear about Patrick?? Please Ruthie, I need his story!
August 10, 2014
"I wanted to write about how, in many marriages, there are these pausing points - ten, twenty, thirty years in - when two people who have committed to each other are forced to stop and think. To decide. Would they choose each other again? Will they?
And I wanted to show how this choice - if made correctly, with awareness and love and open communication - can give two people the courage to reframe their notions of themselves, so they can face the next stretch of road in front of them stronger, better, and more capable of handling whatever challenges come their way."
From A Note From the Author
This book was brilliance. I loved it, I loved it, I loved it!!! Not everyone who is married will go through the emotions that this couple is going through, but I'd say the vast majority of them do. Without prattling on about my own personal experiences, I can say that I relate to this couple very well. I have three daughters very close in age and have been married for over a decade. A marriage goes through stages...some are wonderful, some make you want to commit murder.
Ruthie Knox takes on a subject that maybe not a lot of romance readers want to read about. What happens after the happy ever after? What happens when the real world steps in and your fairy tale ending and the passion of a new love turns into the daily grind? What happens when you have to make sacrifices to your children, your husband, your job, the rest of your family and responsibilities...and you put yourself last? It happens, quite often actually.
I don't necessarily believe that it's an easy thing to fall out of love with someone. What's easy is to allow yourself to put them last, to believe that the marriage vows you took are a binding and rock solid guarantee that they will always be there. And we neglect each other, we stop empathizing, we stop taking care of both our spouse and ourselves.
Amber and Tony's story is a little emotionally exhausting to read at times, possibly because it's easy for me to relate to it. It's not as if these two don't love each other any more. It's partly because of Tony's hours at work, partly because Amber just doesn't have any clue as to who she is besides mom and wife. Along with a thousand other reasons, each adding to a jumbled mess of a marriage between two wonderful people. It seems to be on this precipice...stay or go. Does she want to stay or go? Does he? Is there any saving it? Any getting back to what they used to have?
Even more wonderful than this novella is the fact that Ruthie Knox actually sat down to write this...what author writes about the really nitty gritty parts of romance? Not many. A huge thank you from me to her, not that it matters but I wish more authors would take the plunge like this because this, my friends, is what love is REALLY all about.
I'm blathering. I could go on and on and on and never say anything, so what I will say is READ THIS BOOK! I loved it, it's going to my favorites! Read it.
"I believe that the romance of marriage is about these moments of choosing - these anniversary affirmations that, yes, you're the one I want. Still. Even now. Especially now.
Only you." (Note from the author)
And I wanted to show how this choice - if made correctly, with awareness and love and open communication - can give two people the courage to reframe their notions of themselves, so they can face the next stretch of road in front of them stronger, better, and more capable of handling whatever challenges come their way."
From A Note From the Author
This book was brilliance. I loved it, I loved it, I loved it!!! Not everyone who is married will go through the emotions that this couple is going through, but I'd say the vast majority of them do. Without prattling on about my own personal experiences, I can say that I relate to this couple very well. I have three daughters very close in age and have been married for over a decade. A marriage goes through stages...some are wonderful, some make you want to commit murder.
Ruthie Knox takes on a subject that maybe not a lot of romance readers want to read about. What happens after the happy ever after? What happens when the real world steps in and your fairy tale ending and the passion of a new love turns into the daily grind? What happens when you have to make sacrifices to your children, your husband, your job, the rest of your family and responsibilities...and you put yourself last? It happens, quite often actually.
I don't necessarily believe that it's an easy thing to fall out of love with someone. What's easy is to allow yourself to put them last, to believe that the marriage vows you took are a binding and rock solid guarantee that they will always be there. And we neglect each other, we stop empathizing, we stop taking care of both our spouse and ourselves.
Amber and Tony's story is a little emotionally exhausting to read at times, possibly because it's easy for me to relate to it. It's not as if these two don't love each other any more. It's partly because of Tony's hours at work, partly because Amber just doesn't have any clue as to who she is besides mom and wife. Along with a thousand other reasons, each adding to a jumbled mess of a marriage between two wonderful people. It seems to be on this precipice...stay or go. Does she want to stay or go? Does he? Is there any saving it? Any getting back to what they used to have?
Even more wonderful than this novella is the fact that Ruthie Knox actually sat down to write this...what author writes about the really nitty gritty parts of romance? Not many. A huge thank you from me to her, not that it matters but I wish more authors would take the plunge like this because this, my friends, is what love is REALLY all about.
I'm blathering. I could go on and on and on and never say anything, so what I will say is READ THIS BOOK! I loved it, it's going to my favorites! Read it.
"I believe that the romance of marriage is about these moments of choosing - these anniversary affirmations that, yes, you're the one I want. Still. Even now. Especially now.
Only you." (Note from the author)
June 20, 2013
4.5 Stars
Making It Last reunites us with Amber and Tony from How to Misbehave thirteen years later and to say their relationship has changed is an understatement. Now married with three boys all ten and under, Amber and Tony find themselves in a relationship rut. Tony’s working fifteen hour days in order to keep his construction company going during a struggling economy and Amber’s life revolves around taking care of the boys and their home. The only time the two really get to connect is the twenty minutes right before they go to bed and the lack of alone time as a couple is starting to take its toll on their relationship. Add to that Amber’s growing dissatisfaction with her life in general and they’re left with a marriage that could use some work. Thanks to Amber’s brother’s Jamaican wedding and a few meddling relatives, Tony and Amber are finally given the opportunity to reconnect.
This story works because it could be about any couple trying to raise a family, juggle the demands of work and still try to keep the spark alive in their relationship. It’s relatable and it’s real. Amber’s given up her dreams of having a career in order to raise her sons and while she doesn’t regret becoming a mother, she wishes there was something in her life that was just for her. What stay at home mom hasn’t felt that way at some point? Tony, sensing Amber pulling into herself more and more, wants to help but doesn’t know how or even why she’s becoming increasingly distant. As Tony presses her to open up and talk about what she really wants out of her life, Amber starts to realize Tony desperately wants to be a partner in their relationship and that gives her the freedom to be honest about her needs.
Though this book didn’t have a whole lot of light hearted moments, there were a few sexy scenes involving Amber and Tony role playing as “Jennifer” and “Steve” that were most definitely hot. The real beauty of this story is watching Amber evolve and realize she’s always had control of her life as well as a man who loves her enough to want that for her. She just needed to take charge, find out what she really wanted for her future and, with the help of her family, make it happen.
ARC courtesy of Random House (Loveswept) via NetGalley
Making It Last reunites us with Amber and Tony from How to Misbehave thirteen years later and to say their relationship has changed is an understatement. Now married with three boys all ten and under, Amber and Tony find themselves in a relationship rut. Tony’s working fifteen hour days in order to keep his construction company going during a struggling economy and Amber’s life revolves around taking care of the boys and their home. The only time the two really get to connect is the twenty minutes right before they go to bed and the lack of alone time as a couple is starting to take its toll on their relationship. Add to that Amber’s growing dissatisfaction with her life in general and they’re left with a marriage that could use some work. Thanks to Amber’s brother’s Jamaican wedding and a few meddling relatives, Tony and Amber are finally given the opportunity to reconnect.
This story works because it could be about any couple trying to raise a family, juggle the demands of work and still try to keep the spark alive in their relationship. It’s relatable and it’s real. Amber’s given up her dreams of having a career in order to raise her sons and while she doesn’t regret becoming a mother, she wishes there was something in her life that was just for her. What stay at home mom hasn’t felt that way at some point? Tony, sensing Amber pulling into herself more and more, wants to help but doesn’t know how or even why she’s becoming increasingly distant. As Tony presses her to open up and talk about what she really wants out of her life, Amber starts to realize Tony desperately wants to be a partner in their relationship and that gives her the freedom to be honest about her needs.
Though this book didn’t have a whole lot of light hearted moments, there were a few sexy scenes involving Amber and Tony role playing as “Jennifer” and “Steve” that were most definitely hot. The real beauty of this story is watching Amber evolve and realize she’s always had control of her life as well as a man who loves her enough to want that for her. She just needed to take charge, find out what she really wanted for her future and, with the help of her family, make it happen.
ARC courtesy of Random House (Loveswept) via NetGalley
August 9, 2013
Book #1 gave us Tony and Amber's romance and how perfect to end this series ten years into their marriage, demonstrating how time along with everyday responsibilities affects a relationship. Normally, I like stopping at the HEA and skipping over the real life situations. However, Ruthie Knox did a great job making this work.
Tony and Amber now have three sons. The demands of parenting, Tony working long hours due to unforeseen financial strain, and the many other thousand little things that command their attention has taken its toll. Not only has Amber lost sight of her dreams but also the essence of who she is. And on top of all those feelings, their relationship has been neglected leaving Amber very unhappy.
Making It Last picks up years after the HEA and gives us a glimpse into the real world. As Amber and Tony sit back and re-evaluate their marriage, their journey back to each other became a very pleasurable read. The love they share and their commitment is still strong and having a husband like Tony is only a win situation. Once again, I found him to be the shining star of the story.
Having been married for a gazillion years myself, I completely related to their situation as will most women. While this is short and sexy, Ms. Knox packs a lot into this novella making it very realistic, relatable, and an emotional read.
A big Thank You to Bama for leading me to this one:)!
Tony and Amber now have three sons. The demands of parenting, Tony working long hours due to unforeseen financial strain, and the many other thousand little things that command their attention has taken its toll. Not only has Amber lost sight of her dreams but also the essence of who she is. And on top of all those feelings, their relationship has been neglected leaving Amber very unhappy.
Making It Last picks up years after the HEA and gives us a glimpse into the real world. As Amber and Tony sit back and re-evaluate their marriage, their journey back to each other became a very pleasurable read. The love they share and their commitment is still strong and having a husband like Tony is only a win situation. Once again, I found him to be the shining star of the story.
Having been married for a gazillion years myself, I completely related to their situation as will most women. While this is short and sexy, Ms. Knox packs a lot into this novella making it very realistic, relatable, and an emotional read.
A big Thank You to Bama for leading me to this one:)!
July 6, 2020
This is part 2 of Amber & Tony's story.
Subtitle: The Grind
Subsubtitle: How the invisible work of parenting and marriage make you unrecognizable
So, this isn't fluff. And that cover isn't doing justice to what feels like some pretty hefty and uncomfortable realities about love and marriage. It's a very sexy, very uncomfortable story. It asks important questions: what's worth your time?
It was very very relatable as a wife and mother. Painfully so.
Subtitle: The Grind
Subsubtitle: How the invisible work of parenting and marriage make you unrecognizable
So, this isn't fluff. And that cover isn't doing justice to what feels like some pretty hefty and uncomfortable realities about love and marriage. It's a very sexy, very uncomfortable story. It asks important questions: what's worth your time?
It was very very relatable as a wife and mother. Painfully so.
July 29, 2013
This is what I have been waiting for again from Ruthie. While I loved How to Misbehave, the rest of the Camelot series hasn't knocked me off my feet. They've all been good, but I've come to expect great from Ms. Knox. Well, the rest of Amber and Tony's story didn't disappoint.
While this most certainly is a romance, this book is so, so much more. It's for every woman who's felt ignored, defeated, worn out, exhausted, lost, and just plain old beat up by life's day to day moments--the moments that turn into weeks that turn into months that turn into years. I'm not sure there wasn't a passage, a thought or emotion that Amber had that I hadn't experienced at one point or another. So much of this story hit home. I had nearly thirty passages highlighted (in a NOVELLA!) because so much of it spoke to me.
And while this story made me ache in the most beautiful way, had me crying already at 7%, it was also funny. Ruthie has an amazing talent for blending humor and emotion, and she did it beautifully in this book. Of course, it helped that Tony is my favorite (FAVORITE!), and I loved his sense of humor.
This book is going down as one of my favorites for the year. And I plan to reread. Very soon.
Thank you for writing this, Ruthie, and for reminding us moms that we aren't the only one to have ever felt lost.
While this most certainly is a romance, this book is so, so much more. It's for every woman who's felt ignored, defeated, worn out, exhausted, lost, and just plain old beat up by life's day to day moments--the moments that turn into weeks that turn into months that turn into years. I'm not sure there wasn't a passage, a thought or emotion that Amber had that I hadn't experienced at one point or another. So much of this story hit home. I had nearly thirty passages highlighted (in a NOVELLA!) because so much of it spoke to me.
And while this story made me ache in the most beautiful way, had me crying already at 7%, it was also funny. Ruthie has an amazing talent for blending humor and emotion, and she did it beautifully in this book. Of course, it helped that Tony is my favorite (FAVORITE!), and I loved his sense of humor.
This book is going down as one of my favorites for the year. And I plan to reread. Very soon.
Thank you for writing this, Ruthie, and for reminding us moms that we aren't the only one to have ever felt lost.
June 16, 2013
PREPARE A BOX OF TISSUES, it's that heartbreakingly sweet.
God, I forgot how much I love Tony and Amber. This story, not even a third way through made my heart soar and clench all at the same time.
Amber is lost. She's depressed and losing her own identity to her marriage and motherhood. Tony is just as lost, but doing everything he thinks is right to support his family. He just doesn't realize that by doing that he's losing touch with his wife. Losing that intense connection they share during their first years together. At Caleb's wedding in Jamaica Amber breaks down which prompts Tony to act.
Marriage is hard, it turns out (nothing new under the sun) and routine will wear you out. It takes work, and attentiveness and so much love and patience towards each other. So when Tony realizes Amber is lost, he goes out to find her and heal them both. Because what they have is worth more than anything either he or Amber herself ever thought.
I loved how through the challenges put forth by their kids, Tony understood the seriousness of the situation. Ruthie using the children's fears to mirror the issues was a brilliant move, whether it was deliberate or not.
I rarely read the "notes from the author" part at the end of books, but being a Ruthie's-words-addict, I did this time. And everyone should take the time at the end of this story to read it. It's golden.
Being so affected reading it at this point in my life (single and childless), I can't imagine reading this being married for a few years. The sob-fest would be amplified ten fold, I'm sure.
And with every book by her that I read, I feel like words will never hit the mark better than when shot from Ruthie's pen. And the whole Camelot series is a gem.
This advanced copy is courtesy of the publisher I exchange for an honest review. Thank you!
God, I forgot how much I love Tony and Amber. This story, not even a third way through made my heart soar and clench all at the same time.
Amber is lost. She's depressed and losing her own identity to her marriage and motherhood. Tony is just as lost, but doing everything he thinks is right to support his family. He just doesn't realize that by doing that he's losing touch with his wife. Losing that intense connection they share during their first years together. At Caleb's wedding in Jamaica Amber breaks down which prompts Tony to act.
Marriage is hard, it turns out (nothing new under the sun) and routine will wear you out. It takes work, and attentiveness and so much love and patience towards each other. So when Tony realizes Amber is lost, he goes out to find her and heal them both. Because what they have is worth more than anything either he or Amber herself ever thought.
I loved how through the challenges put forth by their kids, Tony understood the seriousness of the situation. Ruthie using the children's fears to mirror the issues was a brilliant move, whether it was deliberate or not.
I rarely read the "notes from the author" part at the end of books, but being a Ruthie's-words-addict, I did this time. And everyone should take the time at the end of this story to read it. It's golden.
Being so affected reading it at this point in my life (single and childless), I can't imagine reading this being married for a few years. The sob-fest would be amplified ten fold, I'm sure.
And with every book by her that I read, I feel like words will never hit the mark better than when shot from Ruthie's pen. And the whole Camelot series is a gem.
This advanced copy is courtesy of the publisher I exchange for an honest review. Thank you!
July 14, 2013
Readers had the chance to read about Tony and Amber in How to Misbehave and witness the beginning of their love story but what happens after the happily ever after? All the kids, financial burdens? Making It Last is a novella that delves deeper into marriage.
Tony and Amber have been together thirteen years and married for ten. They have three kids and Tony works all the time because of the economy and Amber is left alone, ever since her youngest started school. She feels like nothing, like she is disappearing and on her brother Caleb's wedding in Jamaica Tony witnesses her distress and tells her to take a break.
This book is not all hearts and roses, it makes you ache, seeing Amber's loneliness, her inability to voice what she is feeling meanwhile Tony is doing everything he can to support his family. He knows something is wrong and the fear pushes him to go to Jamaica.
I have to admit I really enjoyed this book, it was one filled with emotion and showed that marriage needs hard-work and communication something that Amber and Tony had lost along the way. Amber was struggling and needed to tell Tony what she felt and find something for herself. Tony meanwhile had to learn to let go of some things. We see them struggle and prove that their love is still alive and well.
Making It Last proves that Ruthie Knox knows how to write complex characters and why she has become an auto buy for me.
ARC provided by the publisher through Netgalley.
Tony and Amber have been together thirteen years and married for ten. They have three kids and Tony works all the time because of the economy and Amber is left alone, ever since her youngest started school. She feels like nothing, like she is disappearing and on her brother Caleb's wedding in Jamaica Tony witnesses her distress and tells her to take a break.
This book is not all hearts and roses, it makes you ache, seeing Amber's loneliness, her inability to voice what she is feeling meanwhile Tony is doing everything he can to support his family. He knows something is wrong and the fear pushes him to go to Jamaica.
I have to admit I really enjoyed this book, it was one filled with emotion and showed that marriage needs hard-work and communication something that Amber and Tony had lost along the way. Amber was struggling and needed to tell Tony what she felt and find something for herself. Tony meanwhile had to learn to let go of some things. We see them struggle and prove that their love is still alive and well.
Making It Last proves that Ruthie Knox knows how to write complex characters and why she has become an auto buy for me.
ARC provided by the publisher through Netgalley.
July 12, 2013
Review posted: Happily Ever After - Reads
Blog rating: A
Amber and Tony (How To Misbehave) have been together and married for nearly fourteen years. They have three boys, Tony’s construction business is barely hanging on with the downturn in the economy and he’s working long days to try and make ends meet. Their youngest son is now in school and Amber is losing herself. She’s all alone in their house everyday and she feels like she has no purpose or passion. Yes, she loves her boys and will do anything for them, but she has nothing that just hers. She feels almost invisible and with Tony working long hours, they have about 15 minutes every night to talk about the day, go through the motions and repeat the same cycle day in and day out. Tony’s worried he’s losing his wife and that she’s thinking about divorce, so during a trip to Jamaica for Amber’s brother’s wedding, as the family is set to leave, it’s been arranged so Amber can stay and enjoy a few days in paradise. She’s excited until she finds out that she’s staying by herself. Tony has to get back to his job and Amber’s mother and Aunt will be there to help watch the boys. Amber doesn’t know what to say, so she stays.
This story hooked me in from the very start, which is saying something considering it opens with Amber and Tony’s youngest son throwing up in a potted plant in Jamaica. Within just the first few pages of seeing how their sons test both their patience, makes it clear the stress that both parents are under. Add in Amber’s lost feeling, the pressure Tony’s under with paying their mortgage and being estranged from his brother Patrick, their marriage is definitely being tested right now. Tony gets another wakeup call thanks to his mother-in-law who tells him that Amber is fading away and he needs to get his priorities in line, quick. He makes the decision to put Amber and his marriage first over his struggling business and goes back to Jamaica to try and get his wife back.
When a role playing scene between Amber and Tony, pretending to be two strangers when Tony tries to pick her up at a bar, starts to hit some nerves, they’re finally able to start getting to the heart of their problems. I felt the desperation that Tony was going through when his worst fear of losing Amber is his current reality and the despair that Amber is feeling when she can’t even figure out what she wants – she’s lost and while it maybe could have come off as “poor me”, I felt for her. I wanted her to find some passion again, be it running like she used to do, or working again, she needed something to look forward to instead of the same isolated feeling she’s been living with for so long.
I loved the moments when Amber and Tony really talked about the things going on, things that scared them, things that they each needed to get off their chests; it’s emotional, some parts made me tear up, but it’s their reality and by finally talking about the stresses they’re under, it lightened each of the loads on them and it gave them a chance to finally move forward in more positive way.
This was a story I couldn’t put down. Part of me wishes it was longer than a novella, but with how emotional and heavy the scenes were, it ended up being just the right length. I started the story and didn’t stop until I was done and even though the ending nicely wraps up their story and journey, I wouldn’t mind at some point if Ruthie Knox gives us another little update for them and seeing the changes they talked about making in their lives.
Blog rating: A
Amber and Tony (How To Misbehave) have been together and married for nearly fourteen years. They have three boys, Tony’s construction business is barely hanging on with the downturn in the economy and he’s working long days to try and make ends meet. Their youngest son is now in school and Amber is losing herself. She’s all alone in their house everyday and she feels like she has no purpose or passion. Yes, she loves her boys and will do anything for them, but she has nothing that just hers. She feels almost invisible and with Tony working long hours, they have about 15 minutes every night to talk about the day, go through the motions and repeat the same cycle day in and day out. Tony’s worried he’s losing his wife and that she’s thinking about divorce, so during a trip to Jamaica for Amber’s brother’s wedding, as the family is set to leave, it’s been arranged so Amber can stay and enjoy a few days in paradise. She’s excited until she finds out that she’s staying by herself. Tony has to get back to his job and Amber’s mother and Aunt will be there to help watch the boys. Amber doesn’t know what to say, so she stays.
This story hooked me in from the very start, which is saying something considering it opens with Amber and Tony’s youngest son throwing up in a potted plant in Jamaica. Within just the first few pages of seeing how their sons test both their patience, makes it clear the stress that both parents are under. Add in Amber’s lost feeling, the pressure Tony’s under with paying their mortgage and being estranged from his brother Patrick, their marriage is definitely being tested right now. Tony gets another wakeup call thanks to his mother-in-law who tells him that Amber is fading away and he needs to get his priorities in line, quick. He makes the decision to put Amber and his marriage first over his struggling business and goes back to Jamaica to try and get his wife back.
When a role playing scene between Amber and Tony, pretending to be two strangers when Tony tries to pick her up at a bar, starts to hit some nerves, they’re finally able to start getting to the heart of their problems. I felt the desperation that Tony was going through when his worst fear of losing Amber is his current reality and the despair that Amber is feeling when she can’t even figure out what she wants – she’s lost and while it maybe could have come off as “poor me”, I felt for her. I wanted her to find some passion again, be it running like she used to do, or working again, she needed something to look forward to instead of the same isolated feeling she’s been living with for so long.
I loved the moments when Amber and Tony really talked about the things going on, things that scared them, things that they each needed to get off their chests; it’s emotional, some parts made me tear up, but it’s their reality and by finally talking about the stresses they’re under, it lightened each of the loads on them and it gave them a chance to finally move forward in more positive way.
This was a story I couldn’t put down. Part of me wishes it was longer than a novella, but with how emotional and heavy the scenes were, it ended up being just the right length. I started the story and didn’t stop until I was done and even though the ending nicely wraps up their story and journey, I wouldn’t mind at some point if Ruthie Knox gives us another little update for them and seeing the changes they talked about making in their lives.
July 17, 2013
I love it when authors give us a hero and a heroine who are already established. Even better, Ruthie Knox earlier this year gave us a novella showing us how Amber and Tony meet and fall in love in How to Misbehave (I gave it a B+ just like this book). Now we get this couple again, ten years later. Three kids later. And the magic of brand new love has worn off.
Amber is lost. She loves Tony and her kids but she is empty inside. Tony works really hard and very, very long hours in his construction business to keep the family afloat. Amber finds herself now with three kids in school full-time, a big custom home that feels more like a prison, and no ambition for anything.
She’d lost whatever sun she’d once orbited around, and without it – without that feeling of knowing herself, of being known – there was a part of her that never warmed. A part of her that was always shivering and cold, right on the verge of tears, and loud in its misery.
She remarks that if she were to make a list of ten things she really wants, she could only think of three. She is stuck, a little panicked and on the verge of tears all the time. Her brother is getting married in Jamaica and Amber envisions grand plans of relaxation, fruity drinks and rejuvenating her spirit. Instead, it’s burgers, kids fighting and barely seeing her husband. As they get on the shuttle to head home, she can’t stop a few tears from falling and Tony sees this and realizes Amber needs a break. So he throws himself and the kids in the shuttle and lets Amber stay by herself at the resort for a few days. Quote 158, 408
But once home, Tony is truly fearful Amber might not come back. He knows they need to work on some issues. He loves her so much, and knows real life has intruded into their marriage too much. Back at the resort, Amber is still feeling lost. But then she turns around and there is a very sexy man staring at her. Tony has come back for her, and he is not leaving until some things have changed.
Oh this is such a good story. Ruthie Knox gives them such realistic marital problems. Nothing as serious like they are contemplating divorce or anything. But just ten years of kids and laundry, and life – sometimes you need to spice things up. I love that she still makes Tony sexy – no beer gut for this guy *wink* But even with a sexy body, it doesn’t guarantee marital bliss (shocking, right?!). I love that Amber yearns for something but she can’t quite communicate it. I love that Tony shows up on the island and they play a little game of pretending to be strangers to each other. It’s hot and really sexy.
Most of all, I love that at the end of the story, things are better yet they still have work to do. Amber still needs to work on communicating. Tony still needs to work on being home more for his family. The kids are still…kids. Just because they have three hot days together on an island, is not a magic cure of for the build-up of the crud in their marriage. It’s better, but they still need work. It felt very realistic to me.
I highly recommend you read How to Misbehave first, so you can see how they fall in love and then jump to this one. They are both quick reads and currently $.99.
Rating: B+
Amber is lost. She loves Tony and her kids but she is empty inside. Tony works really hard and very, very long hours in his construction business to keep the family afloat. Amber finds herself now with three kids in school full-time, a big custom home that feels more like a prison, and no ambition for anything.
She’d lost whatever sun she’d once orbited around, and without it – without that feeling of knowing herself, of being known – there was a part of her that never warmed. A part of her that was always shivering and cold, right on the verge of tears, and loud in its misery.
She remarks that if she were to make a list of ten things she really wants, she could only think of three. She is stuck, a little panicked and on the verge of tears all the time. Her brother is getting married in Jamaica and Amber envisions grand plans of relaxation, fruity drinks and rejuvenating her spirit. Instead, it’s burgers, kids fighting and barely seeing her husband. As they get on the shuttle to head home, she can’t stop a few tears from falling and Tony sees this and realizes Amber needs a break. So he throws himself and the kids in the shuttle and lets Amber stay by herself at the resort for a few days. Quote 158, 408
But once home, Tony is truly fearful Amber might not come back. He knows they need to work on some issues. He loves her so much, and knows real life has intruded into their marriage too much. Back at the resort, Amber is still feeling lost. But then she turns around and there is a very sexy man staring at her. Tony has come back for her, and he is not leaving until some things have changed.
Oh this is such a good story. Ruthie Knox gives them such realistic marital problems. Nothing as serious like they are contemplating divorce or anything. But just ten years of kids and laundry, and life – sometimes you need to spice things up. I love that she still makes Tony sexy – no beer gut for this guy *wink* But even with a sexy body, it doesn’t guarantee marital bliss (shocking, right?!). I love that Amber yearns for something but she can’t quite communicate it. I love that Tony shows up on the island and they play a little game of pretending to be strangers to each other. It’s hot and really sexy.
Most of all, I love that at the end of the story, things are better yet they still have work to do. Amber still needs to work on communicating. Tony still needs to work on being home more for his family. The kids are still…kids. Just because they have three hot days together on an island, is not a magic cure of for the build-up of the crud in their marriage. It’s better, but they still need work. It felt very realistic to me.
I highly recommend you read How to Misbehave first, so you can see how they fall in love and then jump to this one. They are both quick reads and currently $.99.
Rating: B+
July 10, 2013
Review posted at: Swept Away By Romance
5 Stars!
It is no secret that I am a huge fan of Ruthie Knox, and Making It Last perfectly showcases all the reasons why. Making It Last is an honest, real, and candid look at the joys, pitfalls, and challenges of marriage. I honestly believe it is Ruthie’s finest work to date.
We first met Amber and Tony in the novella, (and first book in the Camelot series), How To Misbehave. It’s now almost 14 years later. Work demands, a big mortgage, and “life” have all taken a toll on their marriage.
Tony, Amber, and all three boys have traveled to Montego Bay, Jamaica for Caleb and Ellen’s wedding (from Along Came Trouble). It’s been anything but a vacation for Amber, and in a desperate move to give Amber some much needed rest, relaxation, and rejuvenation, Tony gets Amber to agree to extend her vacation in Jamaica for a few more days….alone. As soon as Tony gets back to Camelot, he realizes the fragile state that their marriage is in, and quickly boards a plane back to Jamaica.
I absolutely loved this book. Maybe it’s because this book hits close to home or maybe it’s because it’s one of the most realistic love stories I’ve ever read, but whatever reason, this book spoke to me.
This is a sensual novella with a scorching love scene, but more than anything, it’s an intimate look at marriage. The main point that I take away from this book is that true and lasting love comes down to choice. In this novella, we see (in poignant detail) a couple that has the choice to either continue on the road towards isolation and resentment, or make the choice to pause, reflect on choices made, change course, and recommit to the promise they made years ago to love one another for a lifetime.
For me personally, marriage to the man I love for the past 15 years has definitely had its ups and downs. As I look back, the choice to “hang in there” through those difficult times has made all the difference. I remember during particularly painful time when I wanted to quit. A dear friend told me “Your full story hasn’t been written. This is a sad chapter, but if you end this marriage now, you’ll never get to the beautiful epilogue.” The truth of that statement has taken up residence inside me and I’m so grateful that I fought to hold on and made the choice to fall in love with him all over again.
This quote is from my favorite movie and it fits this book as well:
“So it's not gonna be easy. It's going to be really hard; we're gonna have to work at this everyday, but I want to do that because I want you. I want all of you, forever, everyday. You and me... everyday.”
― Nicholas Sparks, The Notebook
5 Stars!
It is no secret that I am a huge fan of Ruthie Knox, and Making It Last perfectly showcases all the reasons why. Making It Last is an honest, real, and candid look at the joys, pitfalls, and challenges of marriage. I honestly believe it is Ruthie’s finest work to date.
We first met Amber and Tony in the novella, (and first book in the Camelot series), How To Misbehave. It’s now almost 14 years later. Work demands, a big mortgage, and “life” have all taken a toll on their marriage.
Tony, Amber, and all three boys have traveled to Montego Bay, Jamaica for Caleb and Ellen’s wedding (from Along Came Trouble). It’s been anything but a vacation for Amber, and in a desperate move to give Amber some much needed rest, relaxation, and rejuvenation, Tony gets Amber to agree to extend her vacation in Jamaica for a few more days….alone. As soon as Tony gets back to Camelot, he realizes the fragile state that their marriage is in, and quickly boards a plane back to Jamaica.
I absolutely loved this book. Maybe it’s because this book hits close to home or maybe it’s because it’s one of the most realistic love stories I’ve ever read, but whatever reason, this book spoke to me.
This is a sensual novella with a scorching love scene, but more than anything, it’s an intimate look at marriage. The main point that I take away from this book is that true and lasting love comes down to choice. In this novella, we see (in poignant detail) a couple that has the choice to either continue on the road towards isolation and resentment, or make the choice to pause, reflect on choices made, change course, and recommit to the promise they made years ago to love one another for a lifetime.
For me personally, marriage to the man I love for the past 15 years has definitely had its ups and downs. As I look back, the choice to “hang in there” through those difficult times has made all the difference. I remember during particularly painful time when I wanted to quit. A dear friend told me “Your full story hasn’t been written. This is a sad chapter, but if you end this marriage now, you’ll never get to the beautiful epilogue.” The truth of that statement has taken up residence inside me and I’m so grateful that I fought to hold on and made the choice to fall in love with him all over again.
This quote is from my favorite movie and it fits this book as well:
“So it's not gonna be easy. It's going to be really hard; we're gonna have to work at this everyday, but I want to do that because I want you. I want all of you, forever, everyday. You and me... everyday.”
― Nicholas Sparks, The Notebook
July 16, 2013
5 Wonderful, Amazing and Emotional Stars
OMG OMG OMG I GOT IT
I really don't have words to describe how much i enjoyed reading this book. I absolutely loved it. Such a beautiful story and emotional. And i am not even married or have kids, but this book it's such an awesome example for every1 out there who is married, never to give up on love and to fight for they marriage.
With every book Ruthie Knox becomes a even better writer and delight us with her stories.
I recommend this book to every one who loves to read romance books, you won't regret it.
ARC courtesy to Random House Publishing Group - Loveswept via NetGalley
OMG OMG OMG I GOT IT
I really don't have words to describe how much i enjoyed reading this book. I absolutely loved it. Such a beautiful story and emotional. And i am not even married or have kids, but this book it's such an awesome example for every1 out there who is married, never to give up on love and to fight for they marriage.
With every book Ruthie Knox becomes a even better writer and delight us with her stories.
I recommend this book to every one who loves to read romance books, you won't regret it.
ARC courtesy to Random House Publishing Group - Loveswept via NetGalley
April 30, 2013
I bawled from the minute I started straight through. A powerful story about finding the person you love, day after day, year after year. It's Ruthie's best book yet. Powerful. Heartbreaking and absolutely beautiful.
July 27, 2015
5 stars. And a (hug) for Ruthie Knox for being so amazing.
You can see this review (and lots of others) on Pretty Sassy Cool .
I have to admit that I haven't read any of the other books in the Camelot Series, but that is something that I am going to remedy right away. I asked the lovely Eleanor if I could read out of order, and she said I could but that I had to read the rest asap. Even though I absolutely love About Last Night (with one of my favorite swoony guys), Ride with Me, and Big Boy, I had almost forgotten how much I love Ruthie Knox.
Her words and stories and characters and situations are all just so real. I didn't know anything about Amber and Tony when I started reading this novella, but I immediately identified with and understood exactly where they were in life. I empathized with both of them and wanted to help. That's the power of Ruthie Knox. Don't dismiss her as just another author with hot bare-chested guys on her covers (not that I'm complaining lol). She's a genius, and definitely one of the most under-appreciated authors out there.
Ten years into marriage with three young boys, Tony and Amber are in Jamaica for his brother's wedding. The kids are all restless and Tony's aggravated when he notices Amber looks defeated. He makes a quick decision for her to stay in Jamaica for another few days.
So, she stays, all alone on vacation at an all-inclusive resort in a luxury suite while her husband goes back home with the kids. He can't afford to miss anymore work, since he owns a construction company and times are hard. He loves his family, but he works eighty hour-weeks and barely has time to connect at all, let alone on any intimate level. At home, his mother-in-law gives him some advice.
Realizing he can't lose his wife, he heads back to the resort, intent to reconnect and fix whatever their problems are. Typical man--sometimes things aren't an easy "fix". Tony and Amber have drifted apart because of life, not because anyone did any one thing wrong.
I loved this story, mostly because of how real it is. As a mom, I know it's hard not to let kids and crazy schedules and homework get in the way of what you want or who you are (besides being a mom). I could also identify with Tony, who felt like everything he was doing was for the betterment of his family. Marriage takes work, and it's easy to get off course. I love the intimacy of this story, and I love the sweetness, too.
Sometimes, you just need to hear that. I wish I could get my husband to read this. Is that TMI? I guess it's enough to know that I'm not alone in feeling the way I domost of thesome times. Thank you, Ruthie, for reminding us that it's okay to continue to hope and dream and feel lost and want more, even when you already have everything you could ever wish for.
You can see this review (and lots of others) on Pretty Sassy Cool .
I have to admit that I haven't read any of the other books in the Camelot Series, but that is something that I am going to remedy right away. I asked the lovely Eleanor if I could read out of order, and she said I could but that I had to read the rest asap. Even though I absolutely love About Last Night (with one of my favorite swoony guys), Ride with Me, and Big Boy, I had almost forgotten how much I love Ruthie Knox.
Her words and stories and characters and situations are all just so real. I didn't know anything about Amber and Tony when I started reading this novella, but I immediately identified with and understood exactly where they were in life. I empathized with both of them and wanted to help. That's the power of Ruthie Knox. Don't dismiss her as just another author with hot bare-chested guys on her covers (not that I'm complaining lol). She's a genius, and definitely one of the most under-appreciated authors out there.
Ten years into marriage with three young boys, Tony and Amber are in Jamaica for his brother's wedding. The kids are all restless and Tony's aggravated when he notices Amber looks defeated. He makes a quick decision for her to stay in Jamaica for another few days.
"You can stay," he said. "If you want to."
"What?"
"I want you to stay here a few more days. Take a break."
"Where is this coming from?"
...Tony took her by the shoulder and firmly steered her back around to face him.
"It was Jamila's idea, but she's right. This vacation sucked for you. I think--I think a lot of things must suck for you, and I can't usually do anything about it."
So, she stays, all alone on vacation at an all-inclusive resort in a luxury suite while her husband goes back home with the kids. He can't afford to miss anymore work, since he owns a construction company and times are hard. He loves his family, but he works eighty hour-weeks and barely has time to connect at all, let alone on any intimate level. At home, his mother-in-law gives him some advice.
"I can't go to Jamaica," he said. "I'll get fired off this job I'm doing in Dublin."
"So you lose the job. Isn't Amber more important?"
Realizing he can't lose his wife, he heads back to the resort, intent to reconnect and fix whatever their problems are. Typical man--sometimes things aren't an easy "fix". Tony and Amber have drifted apart because of life, not because anyone did any one thing wrong.
I loved this story, mostly because of how real it is. As a mom, I know it's hard not to let kids and crazy schedules and homework get in the way of what you want or who you are (besides being a mom). I could also identify with Tony, who felt like everything he was doing was for the betterment of his family. Marriage takes work, and it's easy to get off course. I love the intimacy of this story, and I love the sweetness, too.
"...Because you're my wife, and I love you, and I wouldn't have married you if you weren't also the smartest, most capable, most interesting, hottest chick I'd ever met."
Sometimes, you just need to hear that. I wish I could get my husband to read this. Is that TMI? I guess it's enough to know that I'm not alone in feeling the way I do
June 24, 2013
Sometimes you read something that makes you feel not quite so alone in the world.
That happened with this novella.
Amber and Tony have been married for 10 years. During that time, they have had 3 sons and Tony's construction business has been hit hard by the recession. Times are hard and he is working 15+ hour days.
While he is working to provide for his family, Amber is left to handle the chaos that only 3 high-spirited children can provide. She is wife and cheerleader and teacher and doctor and mother and substitute father and cook and cleaner and chauffeur and whatever other role needs to be fulfilled.
And all the while she is being whoever she needs to be, she forgets how to be Amber.
I have so been there -- and reading this novella brought it all screaming back. The feels. OMG, the feels. It was like looking in a mirror of words and seeing my reflections on the pages.
One hazard of reading romance novels is the risk of comparing truth to fiction...but if everybody's life was like the books we love so much, we wouldn't need to read them. Making It Last reminds us that marriage and relationships aren't always the fairytale story, but that just because things are hard doesn't mean the romance is gone.
Sometimes you just have to knock down walls to find it.
And that it is most definitely worth the effort.
Thank you, Ms. Knox for reminding us what it is all about. And that we aren't alone.
That happened with this novella.
Amber and Tony have been married for 10 years. During that time, they have had 3 sons and Tony's construction business has been hit hard by the recession. Times are hard and he is working 15+ hour days.
While he is working to provide for his family, Amber is left to handle the chaos that only 3 high-spirited children can provide. She is wife and cheerleader and teacher and doctor and mother and substitute father and cook and cleaner and chauffeur and whatever other role needs to be fulfilled.
And all the while she is being whoever she needs to be, she forgets how to be Amber.
I have so been there -- and reading this novella brought it all screaming back. The feels. OMG, the feels. It was like looking in a mirror of words and seeing my reflections on the pages.
One hazard of reading romance novels is the risk of comparing truth to fiction...but if everybody's life was like the books we love so much, we wouldn't need to read them. Making It Last reminds us that marriage and relationships aren't always the fairytale story, but that just because things are hard doesn't mean the romance is gone.
Sometimes you just have to knock down walls to find it.
And that it is most definitely worth the effort.
Thank you, Ms. Knox for reminding us what it is all about. And that we aren't alone.
November 30, 2014
I actually finished this yesterday but it has taken me awhile to figure out what to say about this book. In the last 4 yrs I've been through something extremely similar to this book. Except my husband at the time made different decisions. I understand every single thought Amber had. I had 3 children very close together and it was like we were in a foxhole together for years. It was hard and at the time our marriage could not withstand the pressure. Life just happened. As it turns out, my ex and I are no longer exes. We are back together and its a really great thing. We have the "luxury" of having all of the resentment and anger in our rear view mirror. Like Tony and Amber- we understand what we could be doing better NOW. I wouldn't change any of it really... we know what matters now.
This book took my breath away and made me cry because I got it. I'm so glad Ms. Knox wrote this book. I don't think any of us realize how imperfect marriage is and can be.... no one will admit it. I found that out and more the past fews years. I also found out that many, many couples do have issues and do address them. The communication Ms. Knox wrote about with Tony and Amber was the truth. Ask the questions and tell the truth to each other.
Loved it.
This book took my breath away and made me cry because I got it. I'm so glad Ms. Knox wrote this book. I don't think any of us realize how imperfect marriage is and can be.... no one will admit it. I found that out and more the past fews years. I also found out that many, many couples do have issues and do address them. The communication Ms. Knox wrote about with Tony and Amber was the truth. Ask the questions and tell the truth to each other.
Loved it.
July 7, 2013
Wow, what a strange but intriguing take on a finale for a series. Though I haven’t read any of the full length novels that come before this novella in the series, I will say this story was interesting and a unique take on the romance genre. The series seems to be very fascinating and I would like to go back and read the previous novels, but even without reading them I can say this author has grabbed my attention.
Making It Last is a follow-up about the couple that came together in the first story in the series, set 14 years later. Amber and Tony have built a life, including raising three rambunctious boys, building their dream home and trying to find their niches in their lives. But as their children have grown and Amber has watched those around her also find love, she has lost herself. She loves her husband and is happy with her family, but lately she has found herself feeling overwhelmed and adrift. When her husband gives her the chance for her own mini vacation, trying to ease her unhappiness, Amber finds herself at a crossroads, trying to decide how she’ll deal with finding herself in her marriage.
Tony is scared he is losing his wife, the love of his life, mother of his children, and the only reason he has for everything he’s worked so hard to achieve for his family. Determined to give everything he has to rebuilding their relationship and bringing back the pieces of Amber that have disappeared from her eyes, Tony crashes her vacation, working to rekindle their passions. But as they both handle the changes in their lives and try to find the lust that lead to their love so long again, things become extremely emotional as they break down the walls the lives have built between them over the years.
Though I’m not used to reading these types of follow-up stories, ones so full of dysfunction and family issues after the ending of my romance novels, I will say I liked the story. There was of course the requisite passion and sexiness, but oh man there was a huge amount of emotional angst, fear, and stark sadness as they worked through their fears. I found myself crying a lot but in the end, I was left with the feeling that everything will be happy for Tony and Amber in the end, even if they have to tear down and rebuild, their foundation is solid and I can see their love will last forever.
If you haven’t read the rest of the novels in this series, I recommend you do that before you read this novella. I certainly plan to go back and read Tony and Amber’s love story. However, even if you just happen to grab this novella you will not be disappointed. There is plenty of back-story and you don’t feel lost at all. Overall a great ending to a series that I imagine was wonderful to read. I am definitely going to read more by Ruthie Knox.
Rating: 3.5 stars
Making It Last is a follow-up about the couple that came together in the first story in the series, set 14 years later. Amber and Tony have built a life, including raising three rambunctious boys, building their dream home and trying to find their niches in their lives. But as their children have grown and Amber has watched those around her also find love, she has lost herself. She loves her husband and is happy with her family, but lately she has found herself feeling overwhelmed and adrift. When her husband gives her the chance for her own mini vacation, trying to ease her unhappiness, Amber finds herself at a crossroads, trying to decide how she’ll deal with finding herself in her marriage.
Tony is scared he is losing his wife, the love of his life, mother of his children, and the only reason he has for everything he’s worked so hard to achieve for his family. Determined to give everything he has to rebuilding their relationship and bringing back the pieces of Amber that have disappeared from her eyes, Tony crashes her vacation, working to rekindle their passions. But as they both handle the changes in their lives and try to find the lust that lead to their love so long again, things become extremely emotional as they break down the walls the lives have built between them over the years.
Though I’m not used to reading these types of follow-up stories, ones so full of dysfunction and family issues after the ending of my romance novels, I will say I liked the story. There was of course the requisite passion and sexiness, but oh man there was a huge amount of emotional angst, fear, and stark sadness as they worked through their fears. I found myself crying a lot but in the end, I was left with the feeling that everything will be happy for Tony and Amber in the end, even if they have to tear down and rebuild, their foundation is solid and I can see their love will last forever.
If you haven’t read the rest of the novels in this series, I recommend you do that before you read this novella. I certainly plan to go back and read Tony and Amber’s love story. However, even if you just happen to grab this novella you will not be disappointed. There is plenty of back-story and you don’t feel lost at all. Overall a great ending to a series that I imagine was wonderful to read. I am definitely going to read more by Ruthie Knox.
Rating: 3.5 stars
July 13, 2013
When I read How to Misbehave, I loved Amber and Tony and really wanted to see them make it. Throughout the other two, full-length novels in the Camelot series we've seen glimpses of them. Married, with kids and a dog. But that's about all we got. I was ecstatic when I saw there was going to be a follow-up novella.
This book ripped my guts out, over and over and over again. It had me near tears for the entire first 65%. You might wonder how that's a good thing, but the book totally paid off.
Amber and Tony's marriage is going along quite like a lot of people's, I imagine. They have kids, responsibilities, Tony's working a lot to make up for the down construction-housing market, Amber's last baby just started school so now she's home alone...and she doesn't quite remember who she is. After nearly 10 years of putting everyone else first, never thinking of herself, she's not even sure where to start to get herself back. And it doesn't help that Tony's so caught up in his job, and his brother who seems to be spiraling out of control, that he doesn't really try to help Amber. He takes for granted that his marriage is the one part of his life he doesn't need to worry about, because Amber'll be fine.
When they are getting ready to leave Jamaica and Tony sees Amber wiping tears he decides to give her some time to relax and have a real vacation. Amber doesn't know what to say, so she accepts it. After he's gone the thought that runs through her mind is that she wanted to spend time with him, not alone.
I can't even get into what all is in this book, because I think I might start crying again. This book shows that marriages are work. It's not all a fairy-tale after the HEA at the end of the book. People have to put in the time and care and love to a relationship, commit to each other and pulling through tough patches, and make sure they talk about what they need and want.
I loved this book. Loved it, so much. It was heart-wrenching, beautiful, real, and incredibly romantic. A man goes back to Jamaica to save his marriage - will he be in time?
Previous Thoughts: 4.5 stars. Fantastic, probably one of the most realistic looks into a relationship in trouble. I related so easily to this. In fact I think I've had very similar feelings as both Tony and Amber did in this story - I think nearly anyone that's been in a long relationship and feels it falling about will be able to relate.
It was especially nice to see them recommit, and make it work. The author's note at the end just made me happy and nod along.
Review to come.
This book ripped my guts out, over and over and over again. It had me near tears for the entire first 65%. You might wonder how that's a good thing, but the book totally paid off.
Amber and Tony's marriage is going along quite like a lot of people's, I imagine. They have kids, responsibilities, Tony's working a lot to make up for the down construction-housing market, Amber's last baby just started school so now she's home alone...and she doesn't quite remember who she is. After nearly 10 years of putting everyone else first, never thinking of herself, she's not even sure where to start to get herself back. And it doesn't help that Tony's so caught up in his job, and his brother who seems to be spiraling out of control, that he doesn't really try to help Amber. He takes for granted that his marriage is the one part of his life he doesn't need to worry about, because Amber'll be fine.
When they are getting ready to leave Jamaica and Tony sees Amber wiping tears he decides to give her some time to relax and have a real vacation. Amber doesn't know what to say, so she accepts it. After he's gone the thought that runs through her mind is that she wanted to spend time with him, not alone.
I can't even get into what all is in this book, because I think I might start crying again. This book shows that marriages are work. It's not all a fairy-tale after the HEA at the end of the book. People have to put in the time and care and love to a relationship, commit to each other and pulling through tough patches, and make sure they talk about what they need and want.
I loved this book. Loved it, so much. It was heart-wrenching, beautiful, real, and incredibly romantic. A man goes back to Jamaica to save his marriage - will he be in time?
Previous Thoughts: 4.5 stars. Fantastic, probably one of the most realistic looks into a relationship in trouble. I related so easily to this. In fact I think I've had very similar feelings as both Tony and Amber did in this story - I think nearly anyone that's been in a long relationship and feels it falling about will be able to relate.
It was especially nice to see them recommit, and make it work. The author's note at the end just made me happy and nod along.
Review to come.
July 11, 2013
Making it Last by Ruthie Knox is a Kensington / Loveswept publication. This is short story/Novella. This is an update on Tony and Amber after ten years of marriage. I think the first novel they were featured in was "How to Misbehave". This book is set for a July 15th, 2013 release.
When Tony's brother gets married in a tropical location, the whole family is invited. Things don't work out for Amber the way she had hoped. No spa treatments, no time alone, no fun. Tony spent the whole time on the phone conducting business and their three boys kept Amber busy the whole time.
When it was time to go back home, Amber's mom generously offered to let Amber and Tony stay a few more days on her dime. But, Tony misinterprets the gesture, thinking Amber needed time alone. But, when his mother-in-law sets him straight, he goes to get his wife.
This was a great romantic love story. If you are in a committed relationship/marriage and have kids, a demanding career and all the other things life throws at you, you will relate to this couple's struggle to keep their own identities outside of the roles as spouse, mother etc. The rut Amber and Tony find themselves in is an easy trap to walk into. When our parents age and their health declines, we have kids with allergies , and insecurities, plus money problems and career pressures, not to mention in this case a terrible family tragedy.
If you are a mom, you know the kids become a priority in a marriage and all the conversations you have are about them or work or family.
This story reminds us that sometimes, no matter what money issues or whatever else is going on, you have to make time to remember you and your significant other. Yes, it may mean that Gran has to babysit or that you miss out on a little overtime pay or something, but in the end saving a good marriage is worth the extra effort.
Thankfully, this couple gets a chance to have some time to alone to deal with the issues they never have the time to talk about at home. I loved the game they played. It gave them a chance to tell his or her side of things without accusations and bitterness and pity parties and so on. It was showed that hot sex can still happen even after ten years of marriage and three kids.
This was a real warm and fuzzy feeling book with some pretty sizzling sex, for an old married couple. (Grin)
Highly recommend even if are a newlywed and you think this will never happen to you. I rate this one an A.
When Tony's brother gets married in a tropical location, the whole family is invited. Things don't work out for Amber the way she had hoped. No spa treatments, no time alone, no fun. Tony spent the whole time on the phone conducting business and their three boys kept Amber busy the whole time.
When it was time to go back home, Amber's mom generously offered to let Amber and Tony stay a few more days on her dime. But, Tony misinterprets the gesture, thinking Amber needed time alone. But, when his mother-in-law sets him straight, he goes to get his wife.
This was a great romantic love story. If you are in a committed relationship/marriage and have kids, a demanding career and all the other things life throws at you, you will relate to this couple's struggle to keep their own identities outside of the roles as spouse, mother etc. The rut Amber and Tony find themselves in is an easy trap to walk into. When our parents age and their health declines, we have kids with allergies , and insecurities, plus money problems and career pressures, not to mention in this case a terrible family tragedy.
If you are a mom, you know the kids become a priority in a marriage and all the conversations you have are about them or work or family.
This story reminds us that sometimes, no matter what money issues or whatever else is going on, you have to make time to remember you and your significant other. Yes, it may mean that Gran has to babysit or that you miss out on a little overtime pay or something, but in the end saving a good marriage is worth the extra effort.
Thankfully, this couple gets a chance to have some time to alone to deal with the issues they never have the time to talk about at home. I loved the game they played. It gave them a chance to tell his or her side of things without accusations and bitterness and pity parties and so on. It was showed that hot sex can still happen even after ten years of marriage and three kids.
This was a real warm and fuzzy feeling book with some pretty sizzling sex, for an old married couple. (Grin)
Highly recommend even if are a newlywed and you think this will never happen to you. I rate this one an A.
July 15, 2013
My Review:
As someone who's been married for twenty-one years, I'll admit there were moments when this book was tough to read because it struck so many chords with me. This book is about Amber & Tony, the hero/heroine from book #1 in the Camelot series. In that book, their love/attraction was new and shiny and perfect. This book takes place 14 years later, ten years into their marriage and things between them aren't so shiny and happy anymore. This book is real, but that doesn't make it any less beautiful. Because despite how tough marriage is with the day-to-day grime and kids and stress, these are two people who are still in love, although they both have moments of doubt.
Up front, I will say, "Wow, I am impressed that Ruthie Knox wrote this book." This is not your typical romance novel and honestly I'm surprised that Random House published it. BRAVO for them, because it may not be typical, but it is still beautiful and yes, even romantic. It just takes a bit to get there. I loved getting to see Amber and Tony again, even when my heart was breaking for them as they negotiate this huge stumbling block in their marriage. They're real, but even in that reality, they are absolutely in love.
I challenge any reader who's been in a long term relationship to not be affected by this book.It's inspiring to watch these two characters work through this tough time and come out stronger in the end. I personally loved what Ruthie did here. Because the reality is that marriage is tough. It's not all romance and flowers and rainbows. It's kids and finances and problems and stress and it's so easy to lose sight of the love and the romance in the midst of all that. This book is a beautiful reminder of that. The fact that all that stress isn't worth it if you lose the things that matter most. It's about refocusing on those you love and not the day to day details that can suck the life and love out of a relationship.
It was a beautiful way to end the series and I highly recommend the story!
I received a complimentary copy of this book in return for an honest review.
As someone who's been married for twenty-one years, I'll admit there were moments when this book was tough to read because it struck so many chords with me. This book is about Amber & Tony, the hero/heroine from book #1 in the Camelot series. In that book, their love/attraction was new and shiny and perfect. This book takes place 14 years later, ten years into their marriage and things between them aren't so shiny and happy anymore. This book is real, but that doesn't make it any less beautiful. Because despite how tough marriage is with the day-to-day grime and kids and stress, these are two people who are still in love, although they both have moments of doubt.
Up front, I will say, "Wow, I am impressed that Ruthie Knox wrote this book." This is not your typical romance novel and honestly I'm surprised that Random House published it. BRAVO for them, because it may not be typical, but it is still beautiful and yes, even romantic. It just takes a bit to get there. I loved getting to see Amber and Tony again, even when my heart was breaking for them as they negotiate this huge stumbling block in their marriage. They're real, but even in that reality, they are absolutely in love.
I challenge any reader who's been in a long term relationship to not be affected by this book.It's inspiring to watch these two characters work through this tough time and come out stronger in the end. I personally loved what Ruthie did here. Because the reality is that marriage is tough. It's not all romance and flowers and rainbows. It's kids and finances and problems and stress and it's so easy to lose sight of the love and the romance in the midst of all that. This book is a beautiful reminder of that. The fact that all that stress isn't worth it if you lose the things that matter most. It's about refocusing on those you love and not the day to day details that can suck the life and love out of a relationship.
It was a beautiful way to end the series and I highly recommend the story!
I received a complimentary copy of this book in return for an honest review.
August 11, 2017
I just read and reviewed How to Misbehave by Ruthie Knox almost a week ago. I think one of the last things I mentioned in the review was that I would like to read another one of her books but that I wasn't going to rush right into that. I enjoyed the story but it was this sexy, little, fun book but not particularly deep or memorable, or so I thought. ;) I started thinking about it and I'm not really one to leave a story unfinished, so when I discovered that the 4th book in the series was a novella that told the story of Amber and Tony almost 14 years later, I got curious. Then I read my friend Mandy's review, from Straight Shootin' Book Reviews and it was so heartfelt that she convinced me to read it right away. (Yes, I book skipped.) Another thing I must say quickly is that I LOVE that I've pulled back from doing any blog tours or requests from authors. This allows me freedom to just pick up whatever I want, on a whim. My library has a great selection of ebooks by Ruthie Knox so I made the decision and BAM! I was reading it.
I don't want to say much about the story because it's a 100 page novella and if I say too much it will really ruin it for you, but I thought How to Misbehave was really a surface-level book, and this was so much more. Perhaps it was the topic of the story: a couple who have been together a long time and realize that they've lost the magic of being together. It was very heartfelt and real and really resonated with me. I'm not going to tie this into my own personal relationship but I will say that it really makes you think. I thought at first that it was going to be a tough read but it wasn't. It was emotional, yes, but it was also full of hope. It really made me think about how it's important to be in control of your life and your decisions if you're open to it. Tony and Amber have grown as characters in this book. They weren't just horny, young lovers getting to know each other. This was real life stuff and I really enjoyed it.
I don't want to say much about the story because it's a 100 page novella and if I say too much it will really ruin it for you, but I thought How to Misbehave was really a surface-level book, and this was so much more. Perhaps it was the topic of the story: a couple who have been together a long time and realize that they've lost the magic of being together. It was very heartfelt and real and really resonated with me. I'm not going to tie this into my own personal relationship but I will say that it really makes you think. I thought at first that it was going to be a tough read but it wasn't. It was emotional, yes, but it was also full of hope. It really made me think about how it's important to be in control of your life and your decisions if you're open to it. Tony and Amber have grown as characters in this book. They weren't just horny, young lovers getting to know each other. This was real life stuff and I really enjoyed it.
November 10, 2013
4.5/5; 5 stars; A
I was really touched by this story. I think the author nailed it when it comes to demonstrating how time and the ups and downs of life can erode even the strongest of marriages. I am fond of a romantic element in the stories I read and many 'pure romances' deliver a HEA at the end of the book. However, most don't look back at the couple 5, 10, or 20 years down the road because that's the 'fade to fantasy' aspect of romantic fiction.
If you don't like the gritty facts of real life intruding on that 'fantasy' aspect of romance then you might not like this book. I found it touching and inspiring though. We re-visit Tony and Amber, the couple from the very first Camelot book, after they've had some kids and 'done life' for a few years. Life has worn them down and brought them to a crisis point. This story is about Tony and Amber figuring out how to get back on track and revitalize their relationship. It was an awesome love story.
I was really touched by this story. I think the author nailed it when it comes to demonstrating how time and the ups and downs of life can erode even the strongest of marriages. I am fond of a romantic element in the stories I read and many 'pure romances' deliver a HEA at the end of the book. However, most don't look back at the couple 5, 10, or 20 years down the road because that's the 'fade to fantasy' aspect of romantic fiction.
If you don't like the gritty facts of real life intruding on that 'fantasy' aspect of romance then you might not like this book. I found it touching and inspiring though. We re-visit Tony and Amber, the couple from the very first Camelot book, after they've had some kids and 'done life' for a few years. Life has worn them down and brought them to a crisis point. This story is about Tony and Amber figuring out how to get back on track and revitalize their relationship. It was an awesome love story.
June 16, 2013
5 stars
I am a huge fan of Ruthie Knox, I've read all her work and I have to say Making it Last might be my fav to date.
I don't know if it's the subject matter or just that Amber and Tony are close to my heart but I loved every word.
So many married couples go through what Amber and Tony are going through and I have to admit with 3 children I felt Amber's inner turmoil.
Seeing them reconnect made me tear up.
I'm so happy for them and for their gorgeous boys.
They make a wonderful family.
Thank you Ruthie Knox for writing this story and for showing that married life has it's ups and downs but as long as we keep the lines of communication open everything can be worked out.
Thank you NetGalley and Random House for the ARC in exchange for my honest review.
I am a huge fan of Ruthie Knox, I've read all her work and I have to say Making it Last might be my fav to date.
I don't know if it's the subject matter or just that Amber and Tony are close to my heart but I loved every word.
So many married couples go through what Amber and Tony are going through and I have to admit with 3 children I felt Amber's inner turmoil.
Seeing them reconnect made me tear up.
I'm so happy for them and for their gorgeous boys.
They make a wonderful family.
Thank you Ruthie Knox for writing this story and for showing that married life has it's ups and downs but as long as we keep the lines of communication open everything can be worked out.
Thank you NetGalley and Random House for the ARC in exchange for my honest review.
December 22, 2019
Don't expect an escapist romance. It is really a story about everyday people and everyday problem, which is sounds like a criticism but it's not. It's good.
Tony and Amber are both doing their best to care for their family. Tony is a builder, but with the housing market down, he has to work long hours to support his family. Amber is handling the kids, meals, and house but feels lost now that her three kids are in school and she is alone in the big house.
Oh, the feelings. Ms. Knox hit us hard at the beginning and did not quite have enough room in this short book to create a true happy ending. It is a happy-for-now-plan-for-the-best type. Despite all that, it leaves me quite content.
Tony and Amber are both doing their best to care for their family. Tony is a builder, but with the housing market down, he has to work long hours to support his family. Amber is handling the kids, meals, and house but feels lost now that her three kids are in school and she is alone in the big house.
Oh, the feelings. Ms. Knox hit us hard at the beginning and did not quite have enough room in this short book to create a true happy ending. It is a happy-for-now-plan-for-the-best type. Despite all that, it leaves me quite content.
July 16, 2013
Actually 4.5. I LOVED this novella, but I'm taking off .5 points because I was disappointed that it ended at 89% on my Kindle. I wasn't ready for it to end. I wanted and still want more. But maybe that's the sign of a truly wonderful story...
May 18, 2022
Esta es una novela muy buena, lo que pasa es que acongoja. Resulta incómoda de leer precisamente por lo bien escrita que está, por lo realista que suena todo. Estamos en un relato breve, ciento y pico páginas, con el tópico «matrimonio en crisis».
Amber y Tony se casaron enamoradísimos, pero han pasado los años. El mete muchas horas en el trabajo, ella curra en casa y tienen tres niños insufribles. Un viaje a Jamaica, solos, sin niños, será la oportunidad de desconectar. Empiezan con un juego de rol, una fantasía, de dos desconocidos que se enrollan una noche; eso estuvo muy bien, realmente hot. Pero no va de eso, sino de que, aunque se quieren, no tienen claro cómo seguir adelante. Aunque nos quisiéramos mucho en su momento, y ahora seguimos teniéndonos un profundo cariño, ¿es seguir con esta persona lo que quiero para el futuro? Y yo, la verdad, no leo romántica para este tipo de historias.
Crítica más extensa, en mi blog.
Amber y Tony se casaron enamoradísimos, pero han pasado los años. El mete muchas horas en el trabajo, ella curra en casa y tienen tres niños insufribles. Un viaje a Jamaica, solos, sin niños, será la oportunidad de desconectar. Empiezan con un juego de rol, una fantasía, de dos desconocidos que se enrollan una noche; eso estuvo muy bien, realmente hot. Pero no va de eso, sino de que, aunque se quieren, no tienen claro cómo seguir adelante. Aunque nos quisiéramos mucho en su momento, y ahora seguimos teniéndonos un profundo cariño, ¿es seguir con esta persona lo que quiero para el futuro? Y yo, la verdad, no leo romántica para este tipo de historias.
Crítica más extensa, en mi blog.
July 8, 2020
If you are a twenty-something or less, are a bachelor, don't have children, are not married, this may not be a good book for you. Maybe be it would be, because it would give you a hindsight on what probably lies ahead in your life and make you more aware about how to deal with it for the best.
If you're like me, older, married or with someone, with children, with or without a job, you will most likely read this book totally relating to it, feeling like you're reading the story of your life.
We already saw the protagonists in Flirting with disaster, how they met, how they fell in love, the romance part where usually the story ends, leaving you imagining a happy ever after.
Making it last is what happened after. The marriage. Two sons. An economical crisis. One more son, the most difficult one. The trouble with the parents growing old and falling sick or worse. How a woman can completely lose herself in this life and fade in the distance, only existing for others. Supporting them, giving them her strength, and not having any left for her. And the husband/father, realizing that what he thought he was doing for his wife, for his family, is what threatens to blow everything apart ? The lack of communication, not because you don't want to talk, you just forget how to as the years pass ? How do you see your life in ten years ? Do you think you'll be living with the same man ? Will you have left, hoping to make things easier, to find some needed space for you ? Do you even think about what your life will be then ? Do you have the strength to face it ?
I know right now, with the sun, the heat, the summer finally here (maybe too hot), this might not be the kind of book you want to read, you'll want something lighter, steamier, something that keeps reality at bay, one book at a time. That's what I'm looking for in books, why I opened this blog. But believe me, even if this is a very emotional read - I had to keep a handkerchief close at hand and I HATE to keep a handkerchief close at hand when I read a book ! - you will adore it. When the story ends, everything is not solved, but it has the possibility to be solved.
Because it says that life is a bitch, but it gives you hope that you finally can make something out of it, find yourself again, find your loved one again, find a way to make it better.
Because someone who usually writes romance novels had it at heart to write what happens next and not make it pretty and shiny and pink.
Ruthie Knox, you did a wonderful job. From deep in my heart : THANK YOU !!
Quotes :
"It kept going. Her chest got tight and achy. Her eyes hurt in that tired, watery way, like she'd been staring at the roadway of her life through the high beams for too long, and she just wanted to close them. She wanted to rest."
"She hated that she'd become the kind of woman who looked forward to the next time she could be alone to cry."
"She and Tony didnt have the kind of problem that could be fixed with a gesture or a glorious truth delivered at exactly the right moment. They had a dead ember. A light that had gone out.
It wasn't his fault of hers. It wasn't anyone's fault. It had just happened, somewhere along the line. They'd been preoccupied with raising their kids and paying the mortgage, and they'd lost each other."
"She picked up her purse and stood, hooking the wine bottle between two fingers. "Come on", she said. "Bring your cockiness this way, Jennifer will show you where to put it."
"It was the sexiest thing he'd ever seen, wired directly to the space behind his balls with a focused, hot, melting pressure, because he hadn't known. He hadn't known. He'd had no idea she had this whole sexual life separate from him. That she could fuck herself until the tips of her ears flushed pink and she went spent and limp. It made him wonder what else she could do."
"They didn't know what it was like to love someone so much that you lived for those ten minutes before bed, and when you burned bright for ten years - when you poured all the love you had into your family, all the energy into feeding and changing and cleaning up after your babies, caring about their school field trips and their bake sale cupcakes, listening to your husband complain about his job, worry about his brother, and you piled on top of it all your own worries - when you did that not for a month or two months but for a year, and then another year, and then another year and another baby - eventually you ran out of light."
"She loved fiercely - loved hard - and he felt an affinity to her he'd never felt before, because it couldn't be easy to be Janet. It was painful to feel like everything you loved was walking around vulnerable, and you were the only thing standing between it and disaster. Your vigilance. Your protective work.
So inadequate, but all you had."
"She was wrong about love, though. Love wasn't mean. It was life that was mean.
Love was where you found the strength to deal with it."
And quotes from Ruthie Knox herself at the end of the book :
"The hope in any marriage - and the promise inherent in most romance novels' happy endings - is that the couple in question will be better off coping with life together than they would have been alone."
"I wrote it because I wanted to tell a story about how life happens to love. About how hard it is for men who are working at supporting their families and women who are working at raising their children to keep track of who they are and what matters most to them.
I wanted to write about how, in many marriages, there are these pausing points - ten, twenty, thirty years in - when two people who have committed to each other are forced to stop and think. To decide. Would they choose each other again ? Will they ?"
If you're like me, older, married or with someone, with children, with or without a job, you will most likely read this book totally relating to it, feeling like you're reading the story of your life.
We already saw the protagonists in Flirting with disaster, how they met, how they fell in love, the romance part where usually the story ends, leaving you imagining a happy ever after.
Making it last is what happened after. The marriage. Two sons. An economical crisis. One more son, the most difficult one. The trouble with the parents growing old and falling sick or worse. How a woman can completely lose herself in this life and fade in the distance, only existing for others. Supporting them, giving them her strength, and not having any left for her. And the husband/father, realizing that what he thought he was doing for his wife, for his family, is what threatens to blow everything apart ? The lack of communication, not because you don't want to talk, you just forget how to as the years pass ? How do you see your life in ten years ? Do you think you'll be living with the same man ? Will you have left, hoping to make things easier, to find some needed space for you ? Do you even think about what your life will be then ? Do you have the strength to face it ?
I know right now, with the sun, the heat, the summer finally here (maybe too hot), this might not be the kind of book you want to read, you'll want something lighter, steamier, something that keeps reality at bay, one book at a time. That's what I'm looking for in books, why I opened this blog. But believe me, even if this is a very emotional read - I had to keep a handkerchief close at hand and I HATE to keep a handkerchief close at hand when I read a book ! - you will adore it. When the story ends, everything is not solved, but it has the possibility to be solved.
Because it says that life is a bitch, but it gives you hope that you finally can make something out of it, find yourself again, find your loved one again, find a way to make it better.
Because someone who usually writes romance novels had it at heart to write what happens next and not make it pretty and shiny and pink.
Ruthie Knox, you did a wonderful job. From deep in my heart : THANK YOU !!
Quotes :
"It kept going. Her chest got tight and achy. Her eyes hurt in that tired, watery way, like she'd been staring at the roadway of her life through the high beams for too long, and she just wanted to close them. She wanted to rest."
"She hated that she'd become the kind of woman who looked forward to the next time she could be alone to cry."
"She and Tony didnt have the kind of problem that could be fixed with a gesture or a glorious truth delivered at exactly the right moment. They had a dead ember. A light that had gone out.
It wasn't his fault of hers. It wasn't anyone's fault. It had just happened, somewhere along the line. They'd been preoccupied with raising their kids and paying the mortgage, and they'd lost each other."
"She picked up her purse and stood, hooking the wine bottle between two fingers. "Come on", she said. "Bring your cockiness this way, Jennifer will show you where to put it."
"It was the sexiest thing he'd ever seen, wired directly to the space behind his balls with a focused, hot, melting pressure, because he hadn't known. He hadn't known. He'd had no idea she had this whole sexual life separate from him. That she could fuck herself until the tips of her ears flushed pink and she went spent and limp. It made him wonder what else she could do."
"They didn't know what it was like to love someone so much that you lived for those ten minutes before bed, and when you burned bright for ten years - when you poured all the love you had into your family, all the energy into feeding and changing and cleaning up after your babies, caring about their school field trips and their bake sale cupcakes, listening to your husband complain about his job, worry about his brother, and you piled on top of it all your own worries - when you did that not for a month or two months but for a year, and then another year, and then another year and another baby - eventually you ran out of light."
"She loved fiercely - loved hard - and he felt an affinity to her he'd never felt before, because it couldn't be easy to be Janet. It was painful to feel like everything you loved was walking around vulnerable, and you were the only thing standing between it and disaster. Your vigilance. Your protective work.
So inadequate, but all you had."
"She was wrong about love, though. Love wasn't mean. It was life that was mean.
Love was where you found the strength to deal with it."
And quotes from Ruthie Knox herself at the end of the book :
"The hope in any marriage - and the promise inherent in most romance novels' happy endings - is that the couple in question will be better off coping with life together than they would have been alone."
"I wrote it because I wanted to tell a story about how life happens to love. About how hard it is for men who are working at supporting their families and women who are working at raising their children to keep track of who they are and what matters most to them.
I wanted to write about how, in many marriages, there are these pausing points - ten, twenty, thirty years in - when two people who have committed to each other are forced to stop and think. To decide. Would they choose each other again ? Will they ?"
April 1, 2017
This was such a surprisingly emotional read for a novella. Amber & Tony made my heart ache and I loved watching them work through a difficult time in their marriage. And oh my goodness, Jacob. What a precious little cinnamon roll! <3
June 28, 2013
Originally published at Book Harbinger.
Amber is slipping off course, and she can’t easily explain when or how or why. For one, the housing bubble popped and her husband Tony started working long hours. Then her brother-in-law Patrick quit Tony’s construction business. Lastly, her youngest son started full-day school, leaving her home alone during the day. Amidst all this their vacation to Jamaica for a family wedding was supposed to a treat, a luxury. But Tony still doesn't have time for her, even on vacation, and it’s been wearing on both of them for longer than she knows. Amber herself has nothing left to give, and Tony can see it in her eyes. So before they embark on their long car ride back to the airport with sick kids in tow, Tony hands Amber a return ticket and tells her to stay for an extra few days while he takes the kids back to their home in Ohio. But as it turns out Tony senses something more serious is at work, and can’t bear to leave her alone. He returns to surprise her a few days later by role-playing as “Steve”, an attractive man at the bar who sees Amber as only the sexy woman she is in a last-ditch attempt to find her and save their marriage.
I owe my discovery of the romance enovella and Ruthie Knox to Angie. The romance enovellas I read last year by authors like Courtney Milan and Jill Shalvis provided the needed pick-me-up when I was stressed or found myself in a reading slump. So when she reviewed Knox’s novella Big Boy, I took her stamp of approval to heart. I downloaded Big Boy the minute I needed a quick, indulgent read. And while I’m not as passionate about the story overall as Angie is, several passages spoke to me and my every day, specific life as a mother that no other book ever has. Maybe I’ve just been reading the wrong books, but I doubt that feeling could occur more regularly. What’s more, is that Knox’s fourth novella Making It Last resonated with me in the same way but even stronger, because the main character is married and has multiple kids. From the opening scene of her son’s vomiting, I suspected that I would connect to Amber’s situation. Undoubtedly, any mother will, but I’m surprised by the number of readers who aren’t mothers that are just as affected. Bear with me because I’m going to do a lot of quoting from here out. From the first few pages:
As it is for books that you’re passionate about, there are often no words that will do justice to the beautiful truth found in the author’s words themselves. More words about where being both a wife and a mother can leave you:
And my favorite metaphor for Amber:
I love the way Knox illuminatingly articulates how a woman’s identity can be lost in the overwhelming roles of mother and wife. How she also manages to pack all this refreshing and much needed insight on what life does to a marriage into novella format is beyond me. Knox is a master at not only what happens after the happily ever after but the complicated feelings that go along with motherhood as well as the steamy sex scenes of her genre. She is a must read for any reader of contemporary romance and I look forward to anything she writes.
Amber is slipping off course, and she can’t easily explain when or how or why. For one, the housing bubble popped and her husband Tony started working long hours. Then her brother-in-law Patrick quit Tony’s construction business. Lastly, her youngest son started full-day school, leaving her home alone during the day. Amidst all this their vacation to Jamaica for a family wedding was supposed to a treat, a luxury. But Tony still doesn't have time for her, even on vacation, and it’s been wearing on both of them for longer than she knows. Amber herself has nothing left to give, and Tony can see it in her eyes. So before they embark on their long car ride back to the airport with sick kids in tow, Tony hands Amber a return ticket and tells her to stay for an extra few days while he takes the kids back to their home in Ohio. But as it turns out Tony senses something more serious is at work, and can’t bear to leave her alone. He returns to surprise her a few days later by role-playing as “Steve”, an attractive man at the bar who sees Amber as only the sexy woman she is in a last-ditch attempt to find her and save their marriage.
I owe my discovery of the romance enovella and Ruthie Knox to Angie. The romance enovellas I read last year by authors like Courtney Milan and Jill Shalvis provided the needed pick-me-up when I was stressed or found myself in a reading slump. So when she reviewed Knox’s novella Big Boy, I took her stamp of approval to heart. I downloaded Big Boy the minute I needed a quick, indulgent read. And while I’m not as passionate about the story overall as Angie is, several passages spoke to me and my every day, specific life as a mother that no other book ever has. Maybe I’ve just been reading the wrong books, but I doubt that feeling could occur more regularly. What’s more, is that Knox’s fourth novella Making It Last resonated with me in the same way but even stronger, because the main character is married and has multiple kids. From the opening scene of her son’s vomiting, I suspected that I would connect to Amber’s situation. Undoubtedly, any mother will, but I’m surprised by the number of readers who aren’t mothers that are just as affected. Bear with me because I’m going to do a lot of quoting from here out. From the first few pages:
If she was lucky, Jacob wouldn’t throw up in her lap, all their flights would be on time, the kids wouldn’t embarrass her on the plane, and she’d have a few minutes between all their demands to read a magazine.
Maybe she could actually sit by Tony and talk to him about something other than the boys. Or the work he needed to do in the coming week. Or how worried he was about his brother Patrick.
Yeah, right.
As it is for books that you’re passionate about, there are often no words that will do justice to the beautiful truth found in the author’s words themselves. More words about where being both a wife and a mother can leave you:
Tony thought about Amber’s day. Amber’s life. There were no boundaries in it anywhere. Just kids who needed her all the time, no matter whether she was supposed to be on or off duty. Him, coming home late, needing conversation or comfort in the middle of the night.
And my favorite metaphor for Amber:
She’d lost whatever sun she’d once orbited around, and without it – without that feeling of knowing herself, of being known – there was a part of her that never warmed. A part of her that was always shivering and cold, right on the verge of tears, and loud in its misery. Loud. So that the real work of her days … became keeping it quiet. Shushing it sternly, yelling at it if she had to, because if she didn't keep it in check, she ended up crying in the kitchen in the middle of the day with no one around but the dog to notice, and that wouldn’t do.
I love the way Knox illuminatingly articulates how a woman’s identity can be lost in the overwhelming roles of mother and wife. How she also manages to pack all this refreshing and much needed insight on what life does to a marriage into novella format is beyond me. Knox is a master at not only what happens after the happily ever after but the complicated feelings that go along with motherhood as well as the steamy sex scenes of her genre. She is a must read for any reader of contemporary romance and I look forward to anything she writes.
June 27, 2013
5 Stars
We first meet Amber and Tony in How to Misbehave, and have seen snippets of them in the other Camelot books. In Making It Last Amber and Tony have been married for ten years and have three active boys. Their life is not what they dreamed what it would be way back when they fell in love. Money is tight, Amber works hard at keeping her family happy and Tony works long hours to keep his business running and provide for his family. The stress is taking its toll and Amber’s Mom encourages Amber and Tony to take a few days to themselves; Tony feels he can’t get away from work, if he loses the contract he might lose their house and keeping a roof over his family’s head is his top priority. That is until his oldest son questions if Mom will ever come home.
“Amber was getting smaller. Taking up less and less space inside the house, inside herself.”
This novella is incredible! This is what goes on after you finish the last page of the romance book and there is a HEA, this is marriage - this is long lasting love but with realism. It is not always the lure of someone else that challenges a marriage, sometimes it is life itself; and I applaud Ruthie Knox for taking this challenging aspect of a HEA on. There were times I sighed, times I cried, and there were times I swore I was reading about myself. Ruthie Knox made the characters work for their relationship and not just fix everything with roses and champagne. I adored Amber and Tony’s inner dialogs, and their honesty with each other. Tears were in my eyes this whole novella. I love this couple; they are easily in my top five favorite couples of all time. If there is a Camelot #5 I hope we see them thriving in their stronger relationship.
“He didn’t believe leaving could ever be an act of grace. He thought the acts of grace happened when you stayed. When you found something you thought you’d lost, gave something you’d forgotten you had, got something back that you didn’t even know you needed.”
So happy I got the privileged of reading this book. This will be a book that will always live on my Kindle, and one I will come back to again and again. It may be a novella but it is easily one of the best pieces of writing I have read in 2013!
I received this book from the publisher for my honest review.
We first meet Amber and Tony in How to Misbehave, and have seen snippets of them in the other Camelot books. In Making It Last Amber and Tony have been married for ten years and have three active boys. Their life is not what they dreamed what it would be way back when they fell in love. Money is tight, Amber works hard at keeping her family happy and Tony works long hours to keep his business running and provide for his family. The stress is taking its toll and Amber’s Mom encourages Amber and Tony to take a few days to themselves; Tony feels he can’t get away from work, if he loses the contract he might lose their house and keeping a roof over his family’s head is his top priority. That is until his oldest son questions if Mom will ever come home.
“Amber was getting smaller. Taking up less and less space inside the house, inside herself.”
This novella is incredible! This is what goes on after you finish the last page of the romance book and there is a HEA, this is marriage - this is long lasting love but with realism. It is not always the lure of someone else that challenges a marriage, sometimes it is life itself; and I applaud Ruthie Knox for taking this challenging aspect of a HEA on. There were times I sighed, times I cried, and there were times I swore I was reading about myself. Ruthie Knox made the characters work for their relationship and not just fix everything with roses and champagne. I adored Amber and Tony’s inner dialogs, and their honesty with each other. Tears were in my eyes this whole novella. I love this couple; they are easily in my top five favorite couples of all time. If there is a Camelot #5 I hope we see them thriving in their stronger relationship.
“He didn’t believe leaving could ever be an act of grace. He thought the acts of grace happened when you stayed. When you found something you thought you’d lost, gave something you’d forgotten you had, got something back that you didn’t even know you needed.”
So happy I got the privileged of reading this book. This will be a book that will always live on my Kindle, and one I will come back to again and again. It may be a novella but it is easily one of the best pieces of writing I have read in 2013!
I received this book from the publisher for my honest review.
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