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Aspen Friends #3
Life Rewired
For Falyn Shaw, life after prison isn't much better than life in prison. People she knew before want nothing to do with her. Anyone she meets now treats her with disdain as soon as they learn where she's been. Her job is lousy and the pay is pitiful. Worst of all, police consider her a suspect in anything vaguely similar to her previous crime.
A chance meeting with an old friend lets her leave all the unpleasantness behind. She moves to Aspen where no one knows her, takes up her former career as an electrician, and begins to reestablish her life as a decent citizen. Making friends is easy in this small town. One friend in particular, Molly Sokol, turns out to be a kindred spirit. Life is finally back on track. In fact, it may be better than ever as her relationship with Molly turns romantic. But when her past finally catches up with her, can she keep her new life without ruining her blossoming relationship and her friend's business? Or will that come at the expense of her freedom?
A chance meeting with an old friend lets her leave all the unpleasantness behind. She moves to Aspen where no one knows her, takes up her former career as an electrician, and begins to reestablish her life as a decent citizen. Making friends is easy in this small town. One friend in particular, Molly Sokol, turns out to be a kindred spirit. Life is finally back on track. In fact, it may be better than ever as her relationship with Molly turns romantic. But when her past finally catches up with her, can she keep her new life without ruining her blossoming relationship and her friend's business? Or will that come at the expense of her freedom?
260 pages, Paperback
First published May 21, 2013
35 people are currently reading
263 people want to read
About the author
Lynn Galli
19 books267 followersLynn Galli calls the Pacific Northwest home even though she's never written any software code, built an airplane, worn socks with sandals, or slung coffee. For the most part, she enjoys her real job but absolutely lives for the time she gets to spend writing.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 36 reviews
August 1, 2019
All I cared about when I decided to read Life Rewired was that it was the third book in Lynn Galli's Aspen Friends series and that I’d loved the first one and enjoyed the second one a lot too. I didn’t read the blurb, so I was a bit surprised (in a good way) to find that one of the MCs was Molly, who was a rather peripheral character in the previous stories and who totally deserved her own book.
Molly is a very sweet outdoors guide who keeps falling for rather feminine women. Not the gorgeous ones, the pretty ones. So when she meets Falyn, who is as butch as she is, all she sees is the opportunity for a new friendship. And they do become good friends, buddies who bike and hike together and drink beers while watching sports. Both women are taken by surprise at the chemistry a small goodnight peck reveals between them.
As unsettling as it is to realize what you thought you liked is not what you crave, they’re both wise enough to give it a shot and discover that easy friendship is a pretty good basis for a relationship.
I like how Lynn Galli seems not to be fooled by her own romances. Cliched Love: A Satirical Romance is the best example of that, as it’s both satirical and a real romance, but this state of mind filters in most of her novels. It’s rather flagrant in this one, especially in the parts told from Falyn’s POV. There’s also another dimension to Falyn’s character, in that she’s an ex-con, who is doing her best to turn her life around. As in the previous books, she meets the best people and everything goes well in a rather unrealistic way, but I don’t mind. It’s nice to see people finding peace and kindness sometimes.
Molly is a very sweet outdoors guide who keeps falling for rather feminine women. Not the gorgeous ones, the pretty ones. So when she meets Falyn, who is as butch as she is, all she sees is the opportunity for a new friendship. And they do become good friends, buddies who bike and hike together and drink beers while watching sports. Both women are taken by surprise at the chemistry a small goodnight peck reveals between them.
As unsettling as it is to realize what you thought you liked is not what you crave, they’re both wise enough to give it a shot and discover that easy friendship is a pretty good basis for a relationship.
I like how Lynn Galli seems not to be fooled by her own romances. Cliched Love: A Satirical Romance is the best example of that, as it’s both satirical and a real romance, but this state of mind filters in most of her novels. It’s rather flagrant in this one, especially in the parts told from Falyn’s POV. There’s also another dimension to Falyn’s character, in that she’s an ex-con, who is doing her best to turn her life around. As in the previous books, she meets the best people and everything goes well in a rather unrealistic way, but I don’t mind. It’s nice to see people finding peace and kindness sometimes.
December 29, 2021
genre : sapphic romance & crime???3.5 stars rounded down.
pairing : white butch lesbian x2
POV : dual 1st-person
location: USA
indie? : yes
keyword : butch/butch, ex-con, small-town
falyn (44) and molly (39) are so awesome together! there were so many sweet and awwwwww moments. i need more butch/butch pairing because honestly that’s just so good!
the thing that kind of bothered me was the writing? it was okay but at times vague, and molly’s pov was especially... bland but in a hilarious way (buddy this, buddy that). the pacing was a little bit off, especially since brock showed up from nowhere and then consumed the last quarter of the book. i am, however, glad that the relationship “conflict” didn’t happen late in the story, but rather around the 50%-mark.
i truly enjoyed the story, laughed out loud so many times, and toward the end was so anxious that i kept putting off reading. also, i loved the characters (the nice people)! they’re just such a wholesome construction crew.
content warnings: graphic sex, burglary, blackmailing, incarceration, prejudices against formerly incarcerated people
buddy read with gabriella!
January 7, 2021
Maturity at its best
This was one of those rare love stories where the two protagonists who are falling in love don't have immature outbursts, hissy fits, temper tantrums, and those pesky miscommunicated moments that leaves us in suspense, wondering when they're going to reunite and make-up.
Falyn was fresh out of prison and raw. She kept her guard up at all times, always expecting the worst just the around the corner. After securing a great job and a roof over her head, her walls slowly started to lower and she could breathe again. She was a hard worker with an intelligent mind. Her plan was to keep her head down, cash her pay-cheques, and go home at the end of the day all the while dodging horny women who bedded anything female within the towns limits. The town in this story had a sh*t-ton of lesbians/bisexual women, and the single ones seemed to have a high libido. A little far-fetched in my opinion. Falyn never showed real interest toward the women, maybe it was due to the fact that she was trying to be good, or maybe it was because she was older and craving a different taste. Falyn wasn't expecting Molly, a fellow butch who was definitely a different taste who also only dated femmes like Falyn once did. Inexplicably, in the beginning of her and Molly's budding friendship, she never looked at Molly that way, but soon over time, she found herself seeing her butch buddy in a much different light.
Watching Falyn and Molly fall for each other as they attempted to deny it, was so much fun. They were a great pair with excellent chemistry. Even when they were just hanging out, shootin' the breeze, it came so natural to them. So, when they finally acknowledged their attraction for one another after their unexpected kiss, it felt right. When Falyn's dark past caught up to her and she had to work with the lawyer while pretending to be working with an ex-con she once worked for before prison, instead of Molly jumping to conclusions after finding out, they both... *gasp!* talked. They actually talked and Falyn explained things to Molly. I could have wept because I was certain when Molly discovered Falyn acting shady in an alley with an old con, she was going to go running away, crying, boo-hooing. I was pleasantly surprised of the outcome. Maybe it was for the fact that both women were butch and they act and think differently from femmes.
Five stars! I'd add another just for the sex ;)
This was one of those rare love stories where the two protagonists who are falling in love don't have immature outbursts, hissy fits, temper tantrums, and those pesky miscommunicated moments that leaves us in suspense, wondering when they're going to reunite and make-up.
Falyn was fresh out of prison and raw. She kept her guard up at all times, always expecting the worst just the around the corner. After securing a great job and a roof over her head, her walls slowly started to lower and she could breathe again. She was a hard worker with an intelligent mind. Her plan was to keep her head down, cash her pay-cheques, and go home at the end of the day all the while dodging horny women who bedded anything female within the towns limits. The town in this story had a sh*t-ton of lesbians/bisexual women, and the single ones seemed to have a high libido. A little far-fetched in my opinion. Falyn never showed real interest toward the women, maybe it was due to the fact that she was trying to be good, or maybe it was because she was older and craving a different taste. Falyn wasn't expecting Molly, a fellow butch who was definitely a different taste who also only dated femmes like Falyn once did. Inexplicably, in the beginning of her and Molly's budding friendship, she never looked at Molly that way, but soon over time, she found herself seeing her butch buddy in a much different light.
Watching Falyn and Molly fall for each other as they attempted to deny it, was so much fun. They were a great pair with excellent chemistry. Even when they were just hanging out, shootin' the breeze, it came so natural to them. So, when they finally acknowledged their attraction for one another after their unexpected kiss, it felt right. When Falyn's dark past caught up to her and she had to work with the lawyer while pretending to be working with an ex-con she once worked for before prison, instead of Molly jumping to conclusions after finding out, they both... *gasp!* talked. They actually talked and Falyn explained things to Molly. I could have wept because I was certain when Molly discovered Falyn acting shady in an alley with an old con, she was going to go running away, crying, boo-hooing. I was pleasantly surprised of the outcome. Maybe it was for the fact that both women were butch and they act and think differently from femmes.
Five stars! I'd add another just for the sex ;)
September 30, 2022
This is the third in this Aspen series, and like the previous book, it's a bit too 'perfect'. This features MC Molly, a supporting character from the previous books. This one has an interesting premise, whereby the other main character, Falyn, is trying to make a new life for herself after getting out of prison, but as with the last book, falling into this group of friends provides everything she needs. Job? Check. Great place to stay? Check. Great friend who'll go out of their way to make sure you have all you need? Check. New girlfriend? Check.
There is a bit more drama to this story than the last one by virtue of Falyn not being able to completely outrun her past, but it's all smoothed over pretty easily. I liked both characters, and the fact that as with all of Galli's stories, the leads get to know each other first before they get together. I also give this props for being a butch/butch story, since there aren’t that many of these. If you read the others in this series, you’ll probably like this. 3.5 stars
There is a bit more drama to this story than the last one by virtue of Falyn not being able to completely outrun her past, but it's all smoothed over pretty easily. I liked both characters, and the fact that as with all of Galli's stories, the leads get to know each other first before they get together. I also give this props for being a butch/butch story, since there aren’t that many of these. If you read the others in this series, you’ll probably like this. 3.5 stars
December 30, 2014
Fallen heroines (coincidentally named Falyn?) or anti-heroines aiming for redemption have always held a certain kind of appeal for me. Jack from Elite Ops, Luc from Garoul, Weiss from Gun Brooke's space opera, to name a few. Guaranteed drama and angst. I'm not normally a Lynn Galli type of reader. I've read Mending Defects--everything about it is good--but its a bit too laid back for my taste. With a subject matter like this book tackles, though, i expected more emotional fireworks. This book did not disappoint. What surprised me was the nature of the attraction. Both the leading ladies like femmes and neither of
them are. I love that the author took time to develop their unlikely romance and make it plausible and believable. There is also a welcome bit of suspense as our heroine's shady past catches up to her. I love the way the pov shifts between the two leads as the story progresses. It makes for a much more enjoyable read (than a 1-person pov) but still allows us to get inside the characters' heads. Both of the characters are so well drawn, as are the supporting ones who run the gamut. I felt though that Vivian seemed too much of a saint--essentially allowing Natalie to hire an ex-con despite the possible risk to her 'designer to the rich and famous' reputation. But then I skipped the second book, which was about them (Viv and Nat) so I might have missed something there.
A side comment thats not related to the book quality--it did seem a bit strange that a self-identified 'butch' will let people call her 'Molly'. Not that i'm in favor of those obviously male names (e.g Jake, Pearce, Reese) that some authors assign to their characters as if there are ever moms who give their daughters names like that.
Still..Molly is just a tad too girly.
4.5 rating
them are. I love that the author took time to develop their unlikely romance and make it plausible and believable. There is also a welcome bit of suspense as our heroine's shady past catches up to her. I love the way the pov shifts between the two leads as the story progresses. It makes for a much more enjoyable read (than a 1-person pov) but still allows us to get inside the characters' heads. Both of the characters are so well drawn, as are the supporting ones who run the gamut. I felt though that Vivian seemed too much of a saint--essentially allowing Natalie to hire an ex-con despite the possible risk to her 'designer to the rich and famous' reputation. But then I skipped the second book, which was about them (Viv and Nat) so I might have missed something there.
A side comment thats not related to the book quality--it did seem a bit strange that a self-identified 'butch' will let people call her 'Molly'. Not that i'm in favor of those obviously male names (e.g Jake, Pearce, Reese) that some authors assign to their characters as if there are ever moms who give their daughters names like that.
Still..Molly is just a tad too girly.
4.5 rating
January 20, 2021
4.5 stars. Somehow, this book about two butches deeply affected me. I downloaded this book on a whim because it was for free for one day and because the plot sounded good, and because of Jude's review. What a great story!
The first pleasant surpise was that the book was told in the first person. I used to hate that POV in fanfics, but since I discovered E.J. Noyes (and this worked especially well for me for the audiobooks), I've realized there are some pretty good books in first person out there. And this ins one of them.
For the first part (about 33% of the book), we get the story told from Falyn's side.
Falyn is an electrician, an ex-con but absolutely reformed, and thankful to get the chance for a new start by her old friend Natalie, who runs a construction company in Aspen. So, Falyn is on her last pennies and moves from Denver to Aspen. Everything is a lot nicer than she'd ever expected: Natalie's welcome, the colleagues and friends of Natalie's who instantly include her, her flat, just about everything. For the small size of the town, there's an enormous amount of lesbians (but since this is the third book in a series, this probably has to be expected), but those who are not taken are either not suitable or not her type at all. Falyn becomes fast friends with Molly, who's just as butch as she is and who shares her love of sports and outdoors. When she crashes once again on Molly's couch after a night out, an innocent goodnight peck suddenly becomes heated - both to Falyn's and Molly's shock and surprise.
We get the "morning after" then told from Molly's side. It's funny how Falyn's and Molly's perception of each other, of who their type is (and who isn't) and of their night together totally match. It's also good now to get to know Molly, the outdoor guide, a little better. At the same time, Falyn gets hunted down by the police for something she hasn't done, and the lesbian police office can't be quick enough to reveal the "truth" about Falyn to Molly. When Molly asks Falyn about it, it's difficult for both of them. Molly feels betrayed that Falyn didn't tell her and she needs time to process.
I have so many feels for her and also for Falyn - they both are just miserable with the situation and Molly is clearly besotted and vulnerable. And then, as they finally get together again, I could literally feel their giddiness.
The last part of the book is basically about Falyn's past coming after her. I realize that there's probably some drama needed in the book, but I was glad this wasn't so long. It's not really angsty though and I was glad about that.
All in all, I really enjoyed this book and I was deeply touched by the characters. And by the way, this book is a great example that you can very well dive into the third part of a series without any regrets that you haven't read the first to books. For me it was actually perfect, to arrive just in the middle of a ready-made circle of friends.
The first pleasant surpise was that the book was told in the first person. I used to hate that POV in fanfics, but since I discovered E.J. Noyes (and this worked especially well for me for the audiobooks), I've realized there are some pretty good books in first person out there. And this ins one of them.
For the first part (about 33% of the book), we get the story told from Falyn's side.
Falyn is an electrician, an ex-con but absolutely reformed, and thankful to get the chance for a new start by her old friend Natalie, who runs a construction company in Aspen. So, Falyn is on her last pennies and moves from Denver to Aspen. Everything is a lot nicer than she'd ever expected: Natalie's welcome, the colleagues and friends of Natalie's who instantly include her, her flat, just about everything. For the small size of the town, there's an enormous amount of lesbians (but since this is the third book in a series, this probably has to be expected), but those who are not taken are either not suitable or not her type at all. Falyn becomes fast friends with Molly, who's just as butch as she is and who shares her love of sports and outdoors. When she crashes once again on Molly's couch after a night out, an innocent goodnight peck suddenly becomes heated - both to Falyn's and Molly's shock and surprise.
We get the "morning after" then told from Molly's side. It's funny how Falyn's and Molly's perception of each other, of who their type is (and who isn't) and of their night together totally match. It's also good now to get to know Molly, the outdoor guide, a little better. At the same time, Falyn gets hunted down by the police for something she hasn't done, and the lesbian police office can't be quick enough to reveal the "truth" about Falyn to Molly. When Molly asks Falyn about it, it's difficult for both of them. Molly feels betrayed that Falyn didn't tell her and she needs time to process.
I have so many feels for her and also for Falyn - they both are just miserable with the situation and Molly is clearly besotted and vulnerable. And then, as they finally get together again, I could literally feel their giddiness.
The last part of the book is basically about Falyn's past coming after her. I realize that there's probably some drama needed in the book, but I was glad this wasn't so long. It's not really angsty though and I was glad about that.
All in all, I really enjoyed this book and I was deeply touched by the characters. And by the way, this book is a great example that you can very well dive into the third part of a series without any regrets that you haven't read the first to books. For me it was actually perfect, to arrive just in the middle of a ready-made circle of friends.
December 29, 2021
3.5 stars — this was unexpectedly cute! The editing could have been better and the writing style didn’t always work for me, but it was a great feel-good read to round out 2021.
August 15, 2018
The MCs were nice people, kind and caring, which is so rare in romance books. But that was the only positive really. I hated their romance, with pet names like "foxy" and "hot stuff"... As well as their whole butch/top/controlling views on dating and sex. Amongst others that I really don't feel like listing.
October 14, 2023
I found this to be a lovely mature butch/butch friends to lovers story. Falyn is an exon looking to make a new start to her life thanks from the help of her old friend Natalie. And she meets her new friend Molly, as butch as she is. They become great friends ( though Molly doesn't know of Falyns' past). One night Falyn is sleeping over at Molly's again (on her couch) when a simple goodnight kiss ignites a spark in both women. I found this story to be refreshing with little angst between the 2 MCs. 5 stars!
October 9, 2013
I read ms. Galli's first book in the friends series and immediately bought the rest of her books. Initially, I thought I might not be able to identify with Falyn Shaw. The main character in the book is a convicted criminal who was recently released from prison for her crime of robbery. Thanks to her friend Natalie, she gets a job she loves and makes an effort to live a better life. Despite my initial misgivings, Ms. Galli had me rooting for this flawed main character and enjoying a visit with the old Aspen friends.
The book was well written and well edited. It made me wonder how I would react to learn that one of my friends/coworkers had served time in prison. Would I still want to associate with her or would my fear that she' d revert to her evil ways make me fearful to pursue a friendship. Perhaps a bit more of a struggle in this area would have made the story more realistic. However, let's remember it is a fictional romance and art doesn't always imitate life.
All in all, I enjoyed this book as I have the other Aspen Friends books.
The book was well written and well edited. It made me wonder how I would react to learn that one of my friends/coworkers had served time in prison. Would I still want to associate with her or would my fear that she' d revert to her evil ways make me fearful to pursue a friendship. Perhaps a bit more of a struggle in this area would have made the story more realistic. However, let's remember it is a fictional romance and art doesn't always imitate life.
All in all, I enjoyed this book as I have the other Aspen Friends books.
January 21, 2021
First book by this author, read with no expectations and I was pleasantly surprised. Butch ex-con Falyn just can't seem to escape from her past. A chance meeting with Natalie, a friend from before her troubles, gives Falyn a chance of a new job, a home and a fresh start. After meeting Molly, also butch, and with similar outdoor interests, the pair strike up a friendship and began spending increasing amounts of time together. One kiss is all it takes to unleash a torrent of attraction and emotions.
As butch women both were used to playing a certain role in relationships and both were usually attracted to women who expected them to act in a certain way, so it was interesting to read a butch / butch relationship as they tentatively feel their way forward to explore a new dynamic.
A figure from Falyn's past threatens to derail Falyn's newfound happiness and security, and it requires trust on both sides to overcome this threat.
This is part of a series however it can be read as a standalone. A great find.
As butch women both were used to playing a certain role in relationships and both were usually attracted to women who expected them to act in a certain way, so it was interesting to read a butch / butch relationship as they tentatively feel their way forward to explore a new dynamic.
A figure from Falyn's past threatens to derail Falyn's newfound happiness and security, and it requires trust on both sides to overcome this threat.
This is part of a series however it can be read as a standalone. A great find.
February 1, 2021
This was my first from Lynn Galli. I really enjoyed the story although I felt it had a few bumps. It’s the 3rd book in the series, and I didn’t feel lost reading it.
The POV alternated between the two MCs: Molly an outdoor guide and Fayln an excon electrician trying to live an honest life without trouble. The two are more of the butch type who usually fall for a more femme woman but fell for each other. I liked being able to get both perspectives while they were falling for each other, both being confused about the draw to someone that wasn’t their “type”.
Overall sweet story.
The POV alternated between the two MCs: Molly an outdoor guide and Fayln an excon electrician trying to live an honest life without trouble. The two are more of the butch type who usually fall for a more femme woman but fell for each other. I liked being able to get both perspectives while they were falling for each other, both being confused about the draw to someone that wasn’t their “type”.
Overall sweet story.
June 10, 2016
My ninth book by Galli. Probably my first involving an ex-con, at least in a romance. Well, yeah, I've read ex-con books before, but this is the first in a romance. One or two Georgette Heyer books involved criminals and those on the borderline of crime, but they were not ex-cons. Probably because, back then, they probably would have been hanged if caught.
Right. So. I'm fairly certain I've read butch-butch before. First time a big deal was made about it, though, since both were the kind of women who went the traditional butch-femme route. Traditional both in terms of lesbian pulp, and in terms of the real life history I've read about the lesbians of the 1930s to the 1960s. As in, the only way a butch and butch would couple up, is if one of them had switched to femme sometime before (as did, in fact, happen on occasion). At least according to oral history from Buffalo New York.
Molly, from the previous books in this series, stars in this book here. And, somewhat yet again, Galli presented me with a new take on point of views. As in, she's had one point of view - first person; two point of view, again first person - with both having full views being shown; two but limited, as in one is main, other is in some limited way (like diary or bdsm club scenes). Well, this time the book is divided into three parts. Everything in each part has one point of view. It doesn't change inside that part. Starts off with Falyn, the ex-con having part one. Then Molly with part II, then Falyn again for part three. Molly got to have the epilogue.
My fourth lesbian construction worker. Since that's the hook, the reason why Falyn is in Aspen. Long long ago, she was the one who looked after Natalie when she first worked in construction. So, when the two bumped into each other years later, and Natalie learned Falyn needed work, she gave her a job on her construction team. In between the first time they meet, and the time Natalie gave Falyn a job, Falyn had been away in prison. For burglary. Apparently she slid into a bad group of people. Figured stealing from the rich and giving to herself (and her bratty needy girlfriend) was the perfect thing to do. She was wrong. And now she has a second chance at life.
Molly showed up in the first two books in this series, though her presence built with each book. First she's barely there. More of a "oh, and there's this other lesbian, Molly, who works as a guide" type of reference. Second book she actually had some lines. Third book and she's front and center, co-star of her own little romance book.
Enjoyable book and characters.
Right. So. I'm fairly certain I've read butch-butch before. First time a big deal was made about it, though, since both were the kind of women who went the traditional butch-femme route. Traditional both in terms of lesbian pulp, and in terms of the real life history I've read about the lesbians of the 1930s to the 1960s. As in, the only way a butch and butch would couple up, is if one of them had switched to femme sometime before (as did, in fact, happen on occasion). At least according to oral history from Buffalo New York.
Molly, from the previous books in this series, stars in this book here. And, somewhat yet again, Galli presented me with a new take on point of views. As in, she's had one point of view - first person; two point of view, again first person - with both having full views being shown; two but limited, as in one is main, other is in some limited way (like diary or bdsm club scenes). Well, this time the book is divided into three parts. Everything in each part has one point of view. It doesn't change inside that part. Starts off with Falyn, the ex-con having part one. Then Molly with part II, then Falyn again for part three. Molly got to have the epilogue.
My fourth lesbian construction worker. Since that's the hook, the reason why Falyn is in Aspen. Long long ago, she was the one who looked after Natalie when she first worked in construction. So, when the two bumped into each other years later, and Natalie learned Falyn needed work, she gave her a job on her construction team. In between the first time they meet, and the time Natalie gave Falyn a job, Falyn had been away in prison. For burglary. Apparently she slid into a bad group of people. Figured stealing from the rich and giving to herself (and her bratty needy girlfriend) was the perfect thing to do. She was wrong. And now she has a second chance at life.
Molly showed up in the first two books in this series, though her presence built with each book. First she's barely there. More of a "oh, and there's this other lesbian, Molly, who works as a guide" type of reference. Second book she actually had some lines. Third book and she's front and center, co-star of her own little romance book.
Enjoyable book and characters.
February 29, 2016
So what's the deal when a butch meets another butch? A very unlikely couple, but it happened, everyone, it happened...
Molly is this woman who makes other non-lesbians confused about her real gender with an all-manly appearance (I wish the author hadn't repeated muscular so many times cos I kept imagining a female Schwarzenegger and my Asian taste disliked the image very much; however this is only one trivial problem). Molly is simple, sincere and straight forward like a big nice farmer guy. Still, deep down inside, she wants to be taken to climax, to be spooned, to be taken care of. And through Falyn's eyes, Molly is the most considerate, the most beautiful woman ever.
On the other hand, Falyn is much more complicated given her obscure history in jail. She is smart and a keen observer with an ability to understanding people so well. Yet she carries unmistakable shame and guilt about past mistake, thus putting everyone else on guard. Despite it all, Falyn tried her best to get back on track and live a worthy life again.
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Now some other thoughts evoked by the novel, just skip it if you don't like. This book reminds me of many Asian lesfics that put too much emphasis on the role playing thing between butch and femme, on dermining who's the husband and wife in a same sex relationship (really now??), and especially who's the dominant partner in bed (when one is always the doer and the other is always lying on the receiving end). Isn't love about both giving and receiving, especially while 2 people are connected through lovemaking? And if a woman wants a 'husband', why not go for the real thing instead of a man substitution?~~Then again even if I don't quite get it I understand that that people are different and have their own preference so I will shut my trap and stop being judgemental now. From now on I will put those books in the 'stuffs I can't related to no matter how hard I tried' catergories (not Life Rewired of course, this is rather another reason why I love it even more :)).
Molly is this woman who makes other non-lesbians confused about her real gender with an all-manly appearance (I wish the author hadn't repeated muscular so many times cos I kept imagining a female Schwarzenegger and my Asian taste disliked the image very much; however this is only one trivial problem). Molly is simple, sincere and straight forward like a big nice farmer guy. Still, deep down inside, she wants to be taken to climax, to be spooned, to be taken care of. And through Falyn's eyes, Molly is the most considerate, the most beautiful woman ever.
On the other hand, Falyn is much more complicated given her obscure history in jail. She is smart and a keen observer with an ability to understanding people so well. Yet she carries unmistakable shame and guilt about past mistake, thus putting everyone else on guard. Despite it all, Falyn tried her best to get back on track and live a worthy life again.
-----
Now some other thoughts evoked by the novel, just skip it if you don't like. This book reminds me of many Asian lesfics that put too much emphasis on the role playing thing between butch and femme, on dermining who's the husband and wife in a same sex relationship (really now??), and especially who's the dominant partner in bed (when one is always the doer and the other is always lying on the receiving end). Isn't love about both giving and receiving, especially while 2 people are connected through lovemaking? And if a woman wants a 'husband', why not go for the real thing instead of a man substitution?~~Then again even if I don't quite get it I understand that that people are different and have their own preference so I will shut my trap and stop being judgemental now. From now on I will put those books in the 'stuffs I can't related to no matter how hard I tried' catergories (not Life Rewired of course, this is rather another reason why I love it even more :)).
March 6, 2021
4.5/5
This book is split into three sections. Each section takes a first-person point-of-view switching from Falyn to Molly and back to Falyn for the ending. This book is also a romance between two butches, something I don’t see often and something I wish I saw more. It also involves Falyn being an ex-felon.
All of those things blended together to make a really good book. I was invested in the budding relationship between Falyn and Molly as soon as it began. It was nice to see the two characters handle their issues maturely and talk to their friends about their issues to get other viewpoints. It was also nice that none of their friends tried to talk them out of a relationship with another butch.
Molly is an outdoor guide who likes the feminine type. Not gorgeous but pretty. She also harbors feelings of sort for one of the other women in the friend group. Falyn is a newcomer to the area because an old friend offered her a job. As an ex-felon she’s used to life being hard and she’s tentative about taking the job offered to her, she doesn’t want to ruin her friend’s business. I didn’t really expect to care about Falyn. Not in a bad way just in a unrelatable way. I was pleasantly surprised. Reading the book from her point of view was an interesting experience and I found myself liking her quickly. Even the crimes she committed didn’t put me off her as a character. (Marking a spoiler but I’m going to tell you what crimes she committed in case it’s a make-or-break deal for you) Molly was also a really sweet character. Her and Falyn connected over doing outdoorsy things and became buddies.
The best part of the book, to me, was the catalyst that changed the relationship between the two and watching everything fall into place. Molly is a platonic kisser apparently and one peck when going to bed one day and the two were off. Both characters freely admit that the other person isn’t their type, but they found themselves enjoying being together. It was fun to read about. Fighting for dominance and knowing the moves the other was using. The two also had to come to terms with their changing tastes when they realize that their attraction wasn’t a one-off.
This book is really good. I had a few issues with grammar and wording and unnecessary additions but not much. It’s good and sweet and deals with something I’ve never read about before. It’s convinced me that I should read the other Aspen books and I’ll probably reread this one.
This book is split into three sections. Each section takes a first-person point-of-view switching from Falyn to Molly and back to Falyn for the ending. This book is also a romance between two butches, something I don’t see often and something I wish I saw more. It also involves Falyn being an ex-felon.
All of those things blended together to make a really good book. I was invested in the budding relationship between Falyn and Molly as soon as it began. It was nice to see the two characters handle their issues maturely and talk to their friends about their issues to get other viewpoints. It was also nice that none of their friends tried to talk them out of a relationship with another butch.
Molly is an outdoor guide who likes the feminine type. Not gorgeous but pretty. She also harbors feelings of sort for one of the other women in the friend group. Falyn is a newcomer to the area because an old friend offered her a job. As an ex-felon she’s used to life being hard and she’s tentative about taking the job offered to her, she doesn’t want to ruin her friend’s business. I didn’t really expect to care about Falyn. Not in a bad way just in a unrelatable way. I was pleasantly surprised. Reading the book from her point of view was an interesting experience and I found myself liking her quickly. Even the crimes she committed didn’t put me off her as a character. (Marking a spoiler but I’m going to tell you what crimes she committed in case it’s a make-or-break deal for you) Molly was also a really sweet character. Her and Falyn connected over doing outdoorsy things and became buddies.
The best part of the book, to me, was the catalyst that changed the relationship between the two and watching everything fall into place. Molly is a platonic kisser apparently and one peck when going to bed one day and the two were off. Both characters freely admit that the other person isn’t their type, but they found themselves enjoying being together. It was fun to read about. Fighting for dominance and knowing the moves the other was using. The two also had to come to terms with their changing tastes when they realize that their attraction wasn’t a one-off.
This book is really good. I had a few issues with grammar and wording and unnecessary additions but not much. It’s good and sweet and deals with something I’ve never read about before. It’s convinced me that I should read the other Aspen books and I’ll probably reread this one.
January 19, 2021
I loved it! It was sexy, beautiful, unexpected, some angst, but it was an awesome book.
Molly is a tour guide and Falyn is an electrician ex-con that got a job as a crew member on a friend's construction company. I loved all the side characters and how loyal and faithful Natalie is ad a friend to Falyn and how Vivian (Natalie's girlfriend) supported Natalie's decision to keep Falyn around, specially after what was going on.
Molly and Falyn's relationship evolves from buddies to an unexpected relationship and I simply loved how the author worked the story, their relationship and their development from wanting a femme to "holy smokes, my preference changed".
Give it a try, I did and I loved every single word of it.
Molly is a tour guide and Falyn is an electrician ex-con that got a job as a crew member on a friend's construction company. I loved all the side characters and how loyal and faithful Natalie is ad a friend to Falyn and how Vivian (Natalie's girlfriend) supported Natalie's decision to keep Falyn around, specially after what was going on.
Molly and Falyn's relationship evolves from buddies to an unexpected relationship and I simply loved how the author worked the story, their relationship and their development from wanting a femme to "holy smokes, my preference changed".
Give it a try, I did and I loved every single word of it.
August 21, 2021
It was just perfect.
I have no more words for this book.
I have no more words for this book.
March 21, 2017
3,5 stars
July 3, 2013
Ex con, Falyn Shaw is finding that life outside of prison isn’t much better for her than it was in prison. Her friends have disowned her. People have no respect for her once they know she’s served a prison sentence. She’s working in a job she hates for a pittance. Plus the police come round and question her each time a crime has been committed.
When Falyn meets up with her old friend Nat, she is offered a job at Nat’s construction company in Aspen, doing the work she loves and has trained for as an electrician. This is her chance to leave her old life behind and start anew.
Falyn is soon doing very well in Aspen, she’s enjoying her job and has found some new friends. No one knows of her shady past except Nat. When Falyn meets Molly Sokol, she finds a friend she has lots in common with. They begin to spend a lot of time together as buddies. Falyn’s life is finally back on track and is good. Better than good in fact. Her relationship with Molly develops into a sweet romance, that neither of them saw coming.
Unfortunately, it’s too good to be true when Falyn’s past catches up with her. Will Falyn be able to keep the past from ruining her new life and her future? Or will she have to walk away from all she’s just built, including the woman she’s grown to love?
Another well written page turner from Lynn Galli. We have some of the Aspen friends back, along with some new characters to keep the story burning brightly throughout.
I like the way Lynn sets her books amongst a group of friends and then introduces other characters and builds the storyline around the new character. In this book, Falyn is the central character and we see how her criminal past catches up with her. She had paid the price and served her sentence, but second chances are not easy to come by. Even though Falyn has learnt a valuable lesson, she still isn’t left alone to get on with her life. This is very true to real life too. I know I’ve been guilty of thinking, once a criminal always a criminal, instead of taking each case on it’s own merit. So, although this book is fiction, I do feel we can take something out of it for ourselves. This is also a story about second chances. There is a lot of wisdom packed into this sometimes serious, sometimes funny romance.
I always look forward to anything new from Lynn Galli. This has been well worth the wait.
When Falyn meets up with her old friend Nat, she is offered a job at Nat’s construction company in Aspen, doing the work she loves and has trained for as an electrician. This is her chance to leave her old life behind and start anew.
Falyn is soon doing very well in Aspen, she’s enjoying her job and has found some new friends. No one knows of her shady past except Nat. When Falyn meets Molly Sokol, she finds a friend she has lots in common with. They begin to spend a lot of time together as buddies. Falyn’s life is finally back on track and is good. Better than good in fact. Her relationship with Molly develops into a sweet romance, that neither of them saw coming.
Unfortunately, it’s too good to be true when Falyn’s past catches up with her. Will Falyn be able to keep the past from ruining her new life and her future? Or will she have to walk away from all she’s just built, including the woman she’s grown to love?
Another well written page turner from Lynn Galli. We have some of the Aspen friends back, along with some new characters to keep the story burning brightly throughout.
I like the way Lynn sets her books amongst a group of friends and then introduces other characters and builds the storyline around the new character. In this book, Falyn is the central character and we see how her criminal past catches up with her. She had paid the price and served her sentence, but second chances are not easy to come by. Even though Falyn has learnt a valuable lesson, she still isn’t left alone to get on with her life. This is very true to real life too. I know I’ve been guilty of thinking, once a criminal always a criminal, instead of taking each case on it’s own merit. So, although this book is fiction, I do feel we can take something out of it for ourselves. This is also a story about second chances. There is a lot of wisdom packed into this sometimes serious, sometimes funny romance.
I always look forward to anything new from Lynn Galli. This has been well worth the wait.
May 5, 2015
I really like the concept of this book. The idea of a criminal turnaround and have a second chance. The idea that even though you have a type in mind, sometimes, you'll fall in love with someone who is the total opposite. The idea that escaping a past mistake is not as easy like one thought.
What I don't like is how the conflict being resolved in this book, and the romance developments all come from two people who are way similar to each other. A lot of stereotypes being play in this one, but then again, some of the things being mentioned in this book also stray away from the usual stereotype.
This book gave me so much suspenses. I kept thinking something bad is gonna happen or something will go wrong with the plan etc. But then, everything just gone by smoothly, and all the excitement got shot down into nothingness.
The last few chapters only have Falyn dealing and solving all the problems by herself. The interaction between the main couple got cut short because of that. No climax actually going on beside the trust from Molly, and the moment when Molly found out who's Falyn is. The epilogue is probably the best part out of the entire book.
PS: Yolanda seems to be an intriguing character. Plus, I'm curious about the impending fall of Tessa and Kathleen's relationship.
Perhaps I should read Mending Defects and Something So Grant before this one. Since up until now, every of the author's books work fine as standalone. This one though, made me curious quite a bit about the other couples, especially Natalie and Vivian. I feel like I am missing out quite a bit with the skipping.
What I don't like is how the conflict being resolved in this book, and the romance developments all come from two people who are way similar to each other. A lot of stereotypes being play in this one, but then again, some of the things being mentioned in this book also stray away from the usual stereotype.
This book gave me so much suspenses. I kept thinking something bad is gonna happen or something will go wrong with the plan etc. But then, everything just gone by smoothly, and all the excitement got shot down into nothingness.
The last few chapters only have Falyn dealing and solving all the problems by herself. The interaction between the main couple got cut short because of that. No climax actually going on beside the trust from Molly, and the moment when Molly found out who's Falyn is. The epilogue is probably the best part out of the entire book.
PS: Yolanda seems to be an intriguing character. Plus, I'm curious about the impending fall of Tessa and Kathleen's relationship.
Perhaps I should read Mending Defects and Something So Grant before this one. Since up until now, every of the author's books work fine as standalone. This one though, made me curious quite a bit about the other couples, especially Natalie and Vivian. I feel like I am missing out quite a bit with the skipping.
January 24, 2021
3.75 stars.
The good:
- convincing and well-written butch-butch romance
- characters with ordinary jobs
- gorgeous, supportive friendship group
- somewhat disparaging look at the American police and prison systems
The bad:
- final conflict felt to me like it came a bit out of nowhere
- still uncritically accepts the punitive, retributive model of prison.
The main character even says outright that prison should be terrible, unexamined. I get that this isn't a treatise on political economy, psychology, black radicalism, theories of justice or prison abolition, but it would have been nice for these issues to be touched upon. As it is, it felt to me more like the prison system broke her into submission, rather than actually rehabilitating or changing her thought process through legitimate means. I didn't buy Falyn's strong rejection of her previous self, at least not for the reasons given.
The good:
- convincing and well-written butch-butch romance
- characters with ordinary jobs
- gorgeous, supportive friendship group
- somewhat disparaging look at the American police and prison systems
The bad:
- final conflict felt to me like it came a bit out of nowhere
- still uncritically accepts the punitive, retributive model of prison.
The main character even says outright that prison should be terrible, unexamined. I get that this isn't a treatise on political economy, psychology, black radicalism, theories of justice or prison abolition, but it would have been nice for these issues to be touched upon. As it is, it felt to me more like the prison system broke her into submission, rather than actually rehabilitating or changing her thought process through legitimate means. I didn't buy Falyn's strong rejection of her previous self, at least not for the reasons given.
November 17, 2021
Life Rewired … indeed
Falyn’s and Molly’s journey is one of discovering past beliefs in “types” are not always as they seem. That they found each other was serendipitous. That they fell in love was unavoidable. They connected as “buddies” but found there was more than just a friendship. Along with the power of understanding and trust, love was inevitable. I’m so proud of them for not letting labels define them. The secondary characters were strong and relatable. This novel blew stereotypes away. A very good read. I enthusiastically and unequivocally recommend this and any other works by this author. Thank you
Peace
Falyn’s and Molly’s journey is one of discovering past beliefs in “types” are not always as they seem. That they found each other was serendipitous. That they fell in love was unavoidable. They connected as “buddies” but found there was more than just a friendship. Along with the power of understanding and trust, love was inevitable. I’m so proud of them for not letting labels define them. The secondary characters were strong and relatable. This novel blew stereotypes away. A very good read. I enthusiastically and unequivocally recommend this and any other works by this author. Thank you
Peace
Read
February 4, 2022
Trigger & Content Warnings
Incarceration
Blackmail
Incarceration
Blackmail
October 9, 2022
Another Winner
I just reread this after reading #4 and it was another wonderful journey with these character. !lol forward to reading more.
I just reread this after reading #4 and it was another wonderful journey with these character. !lol forward to reading more.
December 28, 2021
A really entertaining story with an interesting plot! Galli has developed her characters well making some very likeable and others a real pain. I thought the dialogue was great and the story had a good pace.
The chemistry between the two MCs was so intriguing in the way it developed. No spoilers, just trust me that I think it’s a good story. I don’t think I need to say anything else.
The chemistry between the two MCs was so intriguing in the way it developed. No spoilers, just trust me that I think it’s a good story. I don’t think I need to say anything else.
January 5, 2017
Once again Lynn Galli delivers
I just love this series of books, the characters are relatable and the stories are heartwarming. Looking forward to my next Lynn Galli book.
I just love this series of books, the characters are relatable and the stories are heartwarming. Looking forward to my next Lynn Galli book.
September 30, 2022
Update: I went back and reread this right after I completed reading the prior story. As a result, I enjoyed it more than I had last time. It's still not one of my favorites but I was better engaged
I've read most of not all of Lynn Galli's books and typically I enjoy them. They are easy and engaging reads. This story was also easy and engaging, however, I personally didn't feel as engaged with either of the main characters Molly or Falyn. It's possible that was because it's been so long since I read the other stories that I found myself trying to place the other characters into context (Glory, Vivian, Mei etc) and in this instance it was a distraction (for me) from the main story. On the bright side it's made me want to go back and re-read "Mending Defects".
Overall this was a pleasant read but I didn't feel like it was as strong as plot as "Mending Defects" or "Blessed Twice"
I've read most of not all of Lynn Galli's books and typically I enjoy them. They are easy and engaging reads. This story was also easy and engaging, however, I personally didn't feel as engaged with either of the main characters Molly or Falyn. It's possible that was because it's been so long since I read the other stories that I found myself trying to place the other characters into context (Glory, Vivian, Mei etc) and in this instance it was a distraction (for me) from the main story. On the bright side it's made me want to go back and re-read "Mending Defects".
Overall this was a pleasant read but I didn't feel like it was as strong as plot as "Mending Defects" or "Blessed Twice"
July 1, 2013
Lynn Galli has a way of putting the reader right into the story and Life Rewired was no different. I truly enjoy her series work in that each book has a different insight into new characters while revisiting old ones. In Life Rewired, we get to see a bit more of Molly Sokol the outdoor enthusiast living in Aspen and taking tourists out to have a vacation adventure. When Falyn Shaw arrives, they are the perfect buddies- sharing the same perspective of a fun time, women, and friendship. It is the build-up of this friendship that creates the characters Lynn Galli is so good at delivering to the reader. The story itself brings to life the scenery, the supporting characters and the life of two great women as they determine that maybe expectations aren't what they are suppose to be and love is where you least expect it. Another great book in the Aspen Series that I recommend to all!
November 19, 2023
Nice distraction while waiting for Hild to arrive.
Galli uses the same basic formula and 1st person POVs she does in most her novels in this one. I'm not wild about it, but her characters usually make up for it.
I did enjoy the two main characters here but had a hard time keeping the characters from previous novels straight.
The conflict this time didn't seem forced but rather believable, that was nice and kind of made up for the usual sprinke of typos that unfortunately are always present in her books.
So yeah, when I do like the characters in her books I tend to be more forgiving in other areas and enjoy the book for the easy distraction it is meant to be.
Galli uses the same basic formula and 1st person POVs she does in most her novels in this one. I'm not wild about it, but her characters usually make up for it.
I did enjoy the two main characters here but had a hard time keeping the characters from previous novels straight.
The conflict this time didn't seem forced but rather believable, that was nice and kind of made up for the usual sprinke of typos that unfortunately are always present in her books.
So yeah, when I do like the characters in her books I tend to be more forgiving in other areas and enjoy the book for the easy distraction it is meant to be.
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