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This Time Around
Nora Montgomery left home and heartbreak behind in South Carolina when she moved to New York City after her high school graduation. Now, four years later, she returns home and is forced to confront the past she left behind and the reckless boy who broke her heart. It’s not long before the pieces of her past begin to blur with the present and she realizes that the feelings she had for her first love never really went away. As old dreams resurface and new truths come to light, she begins to question the future she's always planned on.
Jake Harris has spent four years regretting the night he let her get away. When she finally reappears in his life, he is determined to win her back and prove how much he’s changed. She might never forgive him for that night, but if he tells her the truth about what really happened it will shatter the world she thought she knew. If he doesn’t, he might not get a second chance. He’s already lost her once and he won’t lose her again.
They come from two different worlds that are threatening to tear them apart…can they make it this time around?
Jake Harris has spent four years regretting the night he let her get away. When she finally reappears in his life, he is determined to win her back and prove how much he’s changed. She might never forgive him for that night, but if he tells her the truth about what really happened it will shatter the world she thought she knew. If he doesn’t, he might not get a second chance. He’s already lost her once and he won’t lose her again.
They come from two different worlds that are threatening to tear them apart…can they make it this time around?
227 pages, Kindle Edition
First published July 14, 2013
90 people are currently reading
1726 people want to read
About the author
Ellie Grace
3 books248 followersI'm an avid reader and overall book lover. I love to write, and when a story popped into my head that I couldn't seem to ignore, I decided to take a shot at self-publishing with my first book, “This Time Around.” Now, much of my time is spent dreaming up new characters and planning for the next books that I hope to write. When I’m not writing, I’m usually curled up with my Kindle, reading book-after book-after book from all of my favorite authors (which is a very long list!)
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 149 reviews
August 6, 2013
Sweet sugary southern belle stars ! I love first love second chances ! This was a cute fun read with sexy.
Review to come. Book binge on !! ❤
Review to come. Book binge on !! ❤
July 19, 2013
In addition to being a bookworm, I’m also a movie buff so I can’t help but compare books I read to movies. Ellie Grace’s This Time Around reminded me of a mix between Sweet Home Alabama and The Notebook with its premise of a small town girl returning home after a self-imposed exile prompted by a bad breakup. The shared memories of protagonists, Nora and Jake, may be tinged with heartache but This Time Around is a story about forgiveness and redemption with an overall air of hopefulness. Being privy to the feelings of both protagonists through their dual perspectives helped me to better connect with their characters and support their rekindled romance.
This story of young lovers torn apart by unfortunate circumstances captured my interest immediately – one because I had to know the reason for their relationship’s demise, and two because I was anxious for their inevitable reunion, complete with nervous butterflies and remnants of old feelings. I liked that the author didn’t draw out the will they/won’t they aspect of the relationship, instead centering the conflict on the future of their relationship. There’s no denying that Nora and Jake have a special connection with an undeniable chemistry, but the question is whether or not they can withstand the outside forces working against them.
Of the two protagonists, Nora is the more indecisive about her feelings, which is frustrating at times. I almost wanted to make the decision for her because it’s obvious that Jake cares for her despite what happened in the past. This is perhaps why I gravitated more toward Jake, whose bad rep as a teen unfairly clouds his adult life. Aside from his questionable taste in former booty calls, I’m a fan of Jake’s sweet and charming underdog character. I also like the relaxed and sensual side of Nora that emerges whenever Jake is around. Fun fact: four years of pent-up longing and desire make for frequent and steamy love scenes.
Overall, This Time Around is a quick, entertaining read with a sophisticated writing style that is impressive considering this is Ellie Grace’s first book. I’d recommend the story for the sweet romance between Nora and Jake, who are genuinely enjoyable protagonists. Ellie Grace hints at a possible romance between new characters in the epilogue and I’m eager to see how she progresses with her writing as well as with the characters, new and old.
This story of young lovers torn apart by unfortunate circumstances captured my interest immediately – one because I had to know the reason for their relationship’s demise, and two because I was anxious for their inevitable reunion, complete with nervous butterflies and remnants of old feelings. I liked that the author didn’t draw out the will they/won’t they aspect of the relationship, instead centering the conflict on the future of their relationship. There’s no denying that Nora and Jake have a special connection with an undeniable chemistry, but the question is whether or not they can withstand the outside forces working against them.
Of the two protagonists, Nora is the more indecisive about her feelings, which is frustrating at times. I almost wanted to make the decision for her because it’s obvious that Jake cares for her despite what happened in the past. This is perhaps why I gravitated more toward Jake, whose bad rep as a teen unfairly clouds his adult life. Aside from his questionable taste in former booty calls, I’m a fan of Jake’s sweet and charming underdog character. I also like the relaxed and sensual side of Nora that emerges whenever Jake is around. Fun fact: four years of pent-up longing and desire make for frequent and steamy love scenes.
Overall, This Time Around is a quick, entertaining read with a sophisticated writing style that is impressive considering this is Ellie Grace’s first book. I’d recommend the story for the sweet romance between Nora and Jake, who are genuinely enjoyable protagonists. Ellie Grace hints at a possible romance between new characters in the epilogue and I’m eager to see how she progresses with her writing as well as with the characters, new and old.
December 9, 2014
Read 45% of this book
I am not feeling this book. This gif expresses my frustration. With this book, and with myself. I've been reading it for three hours already, and I keep finding myself reading the same page twice, or reading but thinking of other things. And let me tell you, there is nothing technically wrong with this book. I am completely serious. But Nora suffered, I didn't feel it. She was jealous, I didn't buy it. Jake didn't want to have sex with her (I am completely disturbed), I got mad at him. I WANTED TO FEEL SOMETHING. But when they flirted, I thought it wasn't real. Do you know that feeling when you read/see a book and they are in love, they are happy, they are going out and stuff, but you don't buy them? Or they seem too good to be true? That's what I am feeling. They are just too imaginary. Too unreal for me. I don't buy their fights, I don't buy the reasoning at the beginning of the book. I don't buy anything. I knew I had to stop reading it when I got mad at Nora because she spoke too correctly. Like, what is wrong with me?
I don't think I should give this book less then 3 stars, though. It wouldn't feel right, because I didn't finish it. Heck, I didn't even reached the middle of the book. It may get better, it may get worse. But I don't know right now. And I'm sad, because I wanted to feel something for this book. I don't think everyone will feel this way, though, so I wouldn't say "don't read this book". It didn't work for me, but I am a little weird.
I am not feeling this book. This gif expresses my frustration. With this book, and with myself. I've been reading it for three hours already, and I keep finding myself reading the same page twice, or reading but thinking of other things. And let me tell you, there is nothing technically wrong with this book. I am completely serious. But Nora suffered, I didn't feel it. She was jealous, I didn't buy it. Jake didn't want to have sex with her (I am completely disturbed), I got mad at him. I WANTED TO FEEL SOMETHING. But when they flirted, I thought it wasn't real. Do you know that feeling when you read/see a book and they are in love, they are happy, they are going out and stuff, but you don't buy them? Or they seem too good to be true? That's what I am feeling. They are just too imaginary. Too unreal for me. I don't buy their fights, I don't buy the reasoning at the beginning of the book. I don't buy anything. I knew I had to stop reading it when I got mad at Nora because she spoke too correctly. Like, what is wrong with me?
I don't think I should give this book less then 3 stars, though. It wouldn't feel right, because I didn't finish it. Heck, I didn't even reached the middle of the book. It may get better, it may get worse. But I don't know right now. And I'm sad, because I wanted to feel something for this book. I don't think everyone will feel this way, though, so I wouldn't say "don't read this book". It didn't work for me, but I am a little weird.
December 28, 2013
I received an ARC copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
Nora Montgomery fled to New York four years ago after she was left heartbroken and confused by the actions of her boyfriend at the time Jake Harris. Now she is returning home to Beaufort, South Carolina for the first time since she left to be maid of honor at her best friend Susie’s wedding. It isn’t long before Nora sees Jake again, as he is not only the best friend of the groom to be Ethan but also his best man. It's pretty clear when they first meet the feelings and the chemistry that they have for each other is still there. Nora and Jake are going to have to confront their past if they have a chance for a future.
Nora has been making choices that have made her parents happy rather than herself. She went to study Law because the father wanted her to instead of music, which was her passion. She was a strong and confident character, who wanted to take back control of her life, and I loved her, but every so often she did frustrate me when she was a little uncertain of feelings and didn’t stand up to her parents.
Jake Harris, was a sweetheart, he is patient and caring. He made one silly choice four years ago that wasn’t honestly his fault, but he has regretted ever since, he has made lots of changes in his life and now with Nora back home he was going to make things right. Jake is so in love with Nora she was and is his world. He was so romantic I loved the secretive dates that he planned for Nora.
I like the storyline it was one about second chances and forgiveness, it was low on the drama and angst, had a few anxious moments, plenty of humor and some sexy bedroom scenes. It was told from Nora and Jake’s POV, which as you know is a favorite of mine. I thick I enjoyed reading Jake POV more that Nora’s as you got to see how heartbroken he was and what he went through after Nora left.
This wasn’t a long book, and that always worries me as I have said before I tend to find that when a book is shorter, the story can feel rushed, and bits are missing, but with this one I didn’t have those feelings. That meant that any drama or misunderstandings were sorted out quite quickly. I liked that you found out early into the story what happened on that night four years ago, it wasn’t drawn out over lots of chapters. I must admit that I have a sneaking suspicion about what may have occurred, that didn’t make my enjoyment of the book any less. The story wasn’t one about will or won't they get back together it was about what choices, changes and decision they are going to make in order to have the future together that they both know they want.
This one had some secondary characters that I loved such as Susie and Ethan the type of best friends that you want. Jake’ parents are lovely they have such a great relationship also giving Jake such wonderful words of advice. However Nora’s parents I didn’t warm at the start as her father is too controlling and Lindsey I just wanted to punch.
Overall this was an enjoyable easy read Ellie Grace debut novel was one of those books that after I had finished it I was left with a big fat grin on my face. There wasn't a big cliffhanger just one sweet epilogue and HEA. If like me, you have been reading a lot of books lately heavy storylines and big cliffhangers then I highly recommend This Time Around. It will be a refreshing change, and I don’t think you will be disappointed. Ellie also leaves you with details about her next book Break Away that is Olivia’s story Nora’s friend from New York. But what really made me add this one to my TBR list was that is also about Dex Porter a sexy tattoo former marine. Enough said ☺
This time around gets 4 stars from me.
Some quotes.
“In that moment I could feel all the walls that I’d built up around me over the last four years begin to crack and crumble. Everything just felt…. right. For the first time since I left Beaufort I felt like I was exactly where I was supposed to be.” ~ Nora
‘Baby I was broken. I was completely shattered! There was not a single day that went by that I didn’t think of you. I’ve been yours since the day we met…. yours and only yours,” ~ Jake
‘Didn’t anyone tell you that love doesn’t make sense? Sometimes when you meet the right person, you just know; and you stop looking for anything else ‘cause you know you have already found her,” Jake’s dad
Nora Montgomery fled to New York four years ago after she was left heartbroken and confused by the actions of her boyfriend at the time Jake Harris. Now she is returning home to Beaufort, South Carolina for the first time since she left to be maid of honor at her best friend Susie’s wedding. It isn’t long before Nora sees Jake again, as he is not only the best friend of the groom to be Ethan but also his best man. It's pretty clear when they first meet the feelings and the chemistry that they have for each other is still there. Nora and Jake are going to have to confront their past if they have a chance for a future.
Nora has been making choices that have made her parents happy rather than herself. She went to study Law because the father wanted her to instead of music, which was her passion. She was a strong and confident character, who wanted to take back control of her life, and I loved her, but every so often she did frustrate me when she was a little uncertain of feelings and didn’t stand up to her parents.
Jake Harris, was a sweetheart, he is patient and caring. He made one silly choice four years ago that wasn’t honestly his fault, but he has regretted ever since, he has made lots of changes in his life and now with Nora back home he was going to make things right. Jake is so in love with Nora she was and is his world. He was so romantic I loved the secretive dates that he planned for Nora.
I like the storyline it was one about second chances and forgiveness, it was low on the drama and angst, had a few anxious moments, plenty of humor and some sexy bedroom scenes. It was told from Nora and Jake’s POV, which as you know is a favorite of mine. I thick I enjoyed reading Jake POV more that Nora’s as you got to see how heartbroken he was and what he went through after Nora left.
This wasn’t a long book, and that always worries me as I have said before I tend to find that when a book is shorter, the story can feel rushed, and bits are missing, but with this one I didn’t have those feelings. That meant that any drama or misunderstandings were sorted out quite quickly. I liked that you found out early into the story what happened on that night four years ago, it wasn’t drawn out over lots of chapters. I must admit that I have a sneaking suspicion about what may have occurred, that didn’t make my enjoyment of the book any less. The story wasn’t one about will or won't they get back together it was about what choices, changes and decision they are going to make in order to have the future together that they both know they want.
This one had some secondary characters that I loved such as Susie and Ethan the type of best friends that you want. Jake’ parents are lovely they have such a great relationship also giving Jake such wonderful words of advice. However Nora’s parents I didn’t warm at the start as her father is too controlling and Lindsey I just wanted to punch.
Overall this was an enjoyable easy read Ellie Grace debut novel was one of those books that after I had finished it I was left with a big fat grin on my face. There wasn't a big cliffhanger just one sweet epilogue and HEA. If like me, you have been reading a lot of books lately heavy storylines and big cliffhangers then I highly recommend This Time Around. It will be a refreshing change, and I don’t think you will be disappointed. Ellie also leaves you with details about her next book Break Away that is Olivia’s story Nora’s friend from New York. But what really made me add this one to my TBR list was that is also about Dex Porter a sexy tattoo former marine. Enough said ☺
This time around gets 4 stars from me.
Some quotes.
“In that moment I could feel all the walls that I’d built up around me over the last four years begin to crack and crumble. Everything just felt…. right. For the first time since I left Beaufort I felt like I was exactly where I was supposed to be.” ~ Nora
‘Baby I was broken. I was completely shattered! There was not a single day that went by that I didn’t think of you. I’ve been yours since the day we met…. yours and only yours,” ~ Jake
‘Didn’t anyone tell you that love doesn’t make sense? Sometimes when you meet the right person, you just know; and you stop looking for anything else ‘cause you know you have already found her,” Jake’s dad
July 19, 2013
This was a refreshingly simple and sweet love story with a side of hot and steamy! It's nice to break away from the heavy stories that shatter your emotions or wreak havoc on your nerves, and This Time Around was a great escape. Looking for a heartwarming story to get lost in with characters that are easy to love? You've found it!
Nora's return to her hometown, back to the man who'd broken her heart and the parents who had her whole life planned out for her, was destined to be challenging. She braced herself for the moment when she'd have to face him again, knowing that it would break her heart all over again even with the anger she was holding onto. I was really glad to have duel point of view with this story, because we see how torn up Jake was over Nora, too. Theirs was one of those situations where a little communication years ago could have saved them a ton of heartache, but thankfully they were like moths to the flame and just couldn't stay away from each other for long!!
There wasn't a lot of drama or big roadblocks that were keeping Nora and Jake from walking off into the sunset together. Jake's revelation about why he never showed up that fateful night wasn't earth-shattering, but it changed her perspective on things and they did have their issues to work through. Set to go back to New York and start law school just like daddy wanted, Nora was torn about what she should choose for her future. Jake wouldn't be there, and the last time she'd left that hadn't worked out too well for them. And Jake was still working on getting his career set up, so things were pretty up in the air for where life would take either of them. Nora really had to come into her own and be her own person first, but Jake was the ultimate selfless sweetheart when it came to her. If only more men could be like this!!
I really enjoyed this story and I plan to look out for more in this series! With the heart of a long-lost romance and lots of steamy moments to please, Nora and Jake's story was a great light romance that's sure to satisfy!
Quotes:
Now that I was actually here it was easy to remember why I fled to New York and stayed away for so long. Everything about this place made me think of him. Jake. ~Loc 35
What happened to that girl? Now I was a pushover who went along with Daddy's plans and always played it safe. I felt like I had become a disappointment to the girl I was before. ~ Loc 432
We separated from each other and I was relieved to see that Susie and Ethan were resting up on the beach, unaware of our little show in the water. As I climbed out I noticed that Jake had stayed in.
"Are you coming?"
"Interesting choice of words," he said deviously. "I'm just going to stay in here for a couple minutes...otherwise out friends are going to get an eyeful." ~Loc 1554
Nora's return to her hometown, back to the man who'd broken her heart and the parents who had her whole life planned out for her, was destined to be challenging. She braced herself for the moment when she'd have to face him again, knowing that it would break her heart all over again even with the anger she was holding onto. I was really glad to have duel point of view with this story, because we see how torn up Jake was over Nora, too. Theirs was one of those situations where a little communication years ago could have saved them a ton of heartache, but thankfully they were like moths to the flame and just couldn't stay away from each other for long!!
There wasn't a lot of drama or big roadblocks that were keeping Nora and Jake from walking off into the sunset together. Jake's revelation about why he never showed up that fateful night wasn't earth-shattering, but it changed her perspective on things and they did have their issues to work through. Set to go back to New York and start law school just like daddy wanted, Nora was torn about what she should choose for her future. Jake wouldn't be there, and the last time she'd left that hadn't worked out too well for them. And Jake was still working on getting his career set up, so things were pretty up in the air for where life would take either of them. Nora really had to come into her own and be her own person first, but Jake was the ultimate selfless sweetheart when it came to her. If only more men could be like this!!
I really enjoyed this story and I plan to look out for more in this series! With the heart of a long-lost romance and lots of steamy moments to please, Nora and Jake's story was a great light romance that's sure to satisfy!
Quotes:
Now that I was actually here it was easy to remember why I fled to New York and stayed away for so long. Everything about this place made me think of him. Jake. ~Loc 35
What happened to that girl? Now I was a pushover who went along with Daddy's plans and always played it safe. I felt like I had become a disappointment to the girl I was before. ~ Loc 432
We separated from each other and I was relieved to see that Susie and Ethan were resting up on the beach, unaware of our little show in the water. As I climbed out I noticed that Jake had stayed in.
"Are you coming?"
"Interesting choice of words," he said deviously. "I'm just going to stay in here for a couple minutes...otherwise out friends are going to get an eyeful." ~Loc 1554
February 19, 2015
This book is another New Adult novel, and if you know me you know that I love New Adult novels! However I am sad to say that I was bored about 70% of this book. Nothing major was really happening, there was no suspense throughout the whole book. No gasps of "Oh no!" and absolutely no doubt in my mind that the book was going to end with them together.
When I first read that her reasoning for not coming home, a place she absolutely loved, for 4 years because a boy stood her up once I was so annoyed. She came off super dramatic. I say "came off" because after this she wasn't dramatic again. Her 4 years of unhappiness was her fault also. She didn't confront Jake and asked what happened or tried to contact him whatsoever. She didn't even stop to think maybe something happened to him that made it impossible for him to come. All she thought about was herself. I've been stood up before and my first reaction isn't to avoid coming home for 4 years.
Also, if her "best friend" Susie had known about his reasoning why he couldn't make it that night then why didn't she tell her? I get the whole "he should tell his own story, it's not my story to tell" blah blah nonsense but hello you're her BEST FRIEND? You're suppose to try and help her out of her unhappiness and if telling her that helped her why wouldn't a best friend do that?
Another thing that was annoying was that when she first ran into him when she came back into town she seemed really mad but then the second time around she acted like nothing ever happened between them...what? From then on it seemed like there was no problems between them at all.
Other than that event that happened 4 years ago that got resolved in what seemed like 2 seconds there was nothing else that happened in the book. The only question left remaining throughout the whole book was if she was going to stay or not. It was so obvious what her answer was going to be that it wasn't a suspenseful page turning event whatsoever. The other little problems that happened in this book weren't that entertaining. The only reason I was reading this book quickly was because I hoped that something would happen that would cause a huge conflict but nope.
When I first read that her reasoning for not coming home, a place she absolutely loved, for 4 years because a boy stood her up once I was so annoyed. She came off super dramatic. I say "came off" because after this she wasn't dramatic again. Her 4 years of unhappiness was her fault also. She didn't confront Jake and asked what happened or tried to contact him whatsoever. She didn't even stop to think maybe something happened to him that made it impossible for him to come. All she thought about was herself. I've been stood up before and my first reaction isn't to avoid coming home for 4 years.
Also, if her "best friend" Susie had known about his reasoning why he couldn't make it that night then why didn't she tell her? I get the whole "he should tell his own story, it's not my story to tell" blah blah nonsense but hello you're her BEST FRIEND? You're suppose to try and help her out of her unhappiness and if telling her that helped her why wouldn't a best friend do that?
Another thing that was annoying was that when she first ran into him when she came back into town she seemed really mad but then the second time around she acted like nothing ever happened between them...what? From then on it seemed like there was no problems between them at all.
Other than that event that happened 4 years ago that got resolved in what seemed like 2 seconds there was nothing else that happened in the book. The only question left remaining throughout the whole book was if she was going to stay or not. It was so obvious what her answer was going to be that it wasn't a suspenseful page turning event whatsoever. The other little problems that happened in this book weren't that entertaining. The only reason I was reading this book quickly was because I hoped that something would happen that would cause a huge conflict but nope.
July 22, 2013
This Time Around is a totally and amazingly written story. I could not believe it was the author's debut book because HOLY Jake I could not get enough. I loved everything about this story from the way it tugged at my heart to the ending which was SPECTACULAR in my eyes!
Have you ever loved someone and they were so perfect for you in your eyes but your parents didn't agree? Your parents did not like him so they did everything in their powers to keep you two apart? Well welcome to Nora's world only she doesn't know it at the time. Nora and Jake are perfect for each other. They love each other and have been together for years. Jake is ready to take it to another level after high school graduation and Nora is excited. Only what happens is that after graduation Jake disappears leaving Nora with a broken heart.
Nora decides she is ready to leave her small town and move on from the hurt and the pain she is suffering. So she goes to college in New York. She studies hard and loves college but her heart wants what it wants and she can't get over Jake. So when he best friend calls her and tells her she is getting married and needs her help she goes back home where she has not been in four years.
When she gets home what she is greeted with is a surprise because she sees Jake and her feelings come flowing back to her ten fold and she can't understand why because it has been four years and she should be over him but she is not. Then to make matters worse Jake wants Nora back and has been waiting for her and he is determined to do what ever it takes to get her back. But Jake has kept a secret for four years and telling Nora just may break her. So what will he do? Will he tell her the secret or keep it? Will she believe him and take him back?
This is a must read for the summer on the beach in your car on the train in the plane wherever this is a MUST READ! ~Team Jake all the way!
Have you ever loved someone and they were so perfect for you in your eyes but your parents didn't agree? Your parents did not like him so they did everything in their powers to keep you two apart? Well welcome to Nora's world only she doesn't know it at the time. Nora and Jake are perfect for each other. They love each other and have been together for years. Jake is ready to take it to another level after high school graduation and Nora is excited. Only what happens is that after graduation Jake disappears leaving Nora with a broken heart.
Nora decides she is ready to leave her small town and move on from the hurt and the pain she is suffering. So she goes to college in New York. She studies hard and loves college but her heart wants what it wants and she can't get over Jake. So when he best friend calls her and tells her she is getting married and needs her help she goes back home where she has not been in four years.
When she gets home what she is greeted with is a surprise because she sees Jake and her feelings come flowing back to her ten fold and she can't understand why because it has been four years and she should be over him but she is not. Then to make matters worse Jake wants Nora back and has been waiting for her and he is determined to do what ever it takes to get her back. But Jake has kept a secret for four years and telling Nora just may break her. So what will he do? Will he tell her the secret or keep it? Will she believe him and take him back?
This is a must read for the summer on the beach in your car on the train in the plane wherever this is a MUST READ! ~Team Jake all the way!
August 25, 2015
This Time Around is a cute and fun summer read. I was really excited to read this story because the focus is on two former flames getting back together. This type of storyline is always appeals to me because it promises a lot of tension and angst. There wasn't a ton of either, but I still thought it was a good read.
Nora Montgomery comes from a privileged family - the daughter of the town lawyer, while Jake Harris is the town bad boy. Nora was the last person Jake thought he would fall for, but they fell for each other. Hard and fast. Something happened that broke them apart during their senior year and they broke up. Nora ran as far away as she could and didn't look back for 4 years. Nora and Jake thought they had lost their chance to be together. Their mutual friends' wedding may be just the right thing to bring them back to each other.
Nora is a strong and independent woman, and I loved that about her. In the beginning, it was clear that she was still hurting from her heartbreak in high school. She never really moved on after Jake Harris and no one else could compare to the way he made her feel. She was blindly going down the road her father had paved for her - to law school. After law school, she planned to join her father's law firm, but this wasn't what her true passion was - she loved singing. I loved seeing her evolve and change throughout the novel. By the end, she learned who she was and what she wants and I really enjoyed that
I was just a puppet in my dad's show. He was behind the scenes pulling my strings and making me perform the scenes that he'd chose. And I'd let him.
Not anymore.
Nora wasn't the only person who changed since high school. Jake went to architecture school and got a degree. He wanted to be the man that Nora deserved and wanted nothing more than to support and take care of her. I loved that about him. He deeply cared for her and wanted to make Nora feel treasured and loved. After they reunited you could feel how much in love remained after so long apart. The romantic things Noah did for Nora were very sweet. I enjoyed watching the two of them reconnect. It was almost as if no time had passed. I loved the fact that Jake's parents supported him as he pursued Nora.
When I read I always pay close attention to the setting and the characters' environment. It helps me immerse myself in the story. I loved the setting in This Time Around. The book is set in Beaufort, South Carolina surrounded by southern mansions and the Carolina coast. I loved the contrast between New York City, where Nora went to college, and the more slow-paced feel of Beaufort. The descriptions of the setting made me want to visit and sit by the ocean with a glass of iced tea.
I enjoyed this sweet romance. However, what didn't work for me was the pacing. There was very little time in between when Nora comes back into town and when she and Noah get back together. I would have liked there to be more tension in the beginning for the two main characters. There were no surprises for me, as I had a good idea of how everything was going to play out. Nonetheless, this was a cute and light read. This is the perfect read that won't mess with your mind or cause you to want to throw your Kindle.
Favorite Quotes:
"All I ever wanted to do was make her happy. There was still a chance she could end up breaking my heart in a couple months, but I would just have to have faith in her - in us."
"When you find your right person, everything becomes exciting. Even the most mundane things are interesting when you experience it with the person who sets your world on fire."
"I am with you no matter where you go."
_________________________
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July 10, 2013
3 stars - a sweet story of love found again that had never died
They met in high school and fell hard for each other. But something happened that had her leaving for college without talking to him. Now she's back, diploma in hand, for her best friends wedding. She's gonna just be friends or get him out of her system, but then she's headed back to New York for Law school. Too bad her heart didn't get the memo and he had never stopped loving her. This summer is gonna be fun.
Nora is strong and determined, all things I love about her. She struggles with decisions but she does grow a lot in the book. The law school thing is her fathers dream and it's so clear that music is hers but she gave that up when she left for college. It's hard to be strong and stand up for your dreams to your parents especially when you have good ones like Nora's. It's clear they have her best interest at heart but her father is too controlling and I will admit to wanting to give him a piece of my mind. By the end, though I loved him and Nora both.
Jake. I always loved Jake. He kinda screwed up right before Nora left for college but it so wasn't his fault. Totally loved the boy. He's passionate and caring. Even though I really couldn't stand Lindsay at all, I loved that he wasn't mean to her. Jake has been hurt, a lot. But he has picked himself up and gone to school. He worked construction and went to night classes, determined to make something of himself. I admired that so much in him. I love that he has a dog named Max. I love his relationship with his parents. I love that he gets moody when he's frustrated and upset. He needs some space. I love that he's willing to give space to others when they need it. I love that he stood up to someone (I can't tell you who) finally. I love his secretive dates that he plans so well. I love that he's patient with his loving. He's one sexy guy in the bedroom - or anywhere else for that matter. Just love Jake.
There were a few things that bugged me in this book. One was the cover. While I love the cover, it doesn't really go with the book. This story takes place in a southern, country town and that's as close as you get. This book is about lawyers and architects maybe some construction but no farming equipment. It is a sweet cover, though, and that part fits.
The authors writing style took a bit for me to get used to. There was a lot of summarizing mixed in between the more current scenes. While that style can be very effective, it's not something I'm used to. By the end, I was okay with it.
I did see things coming but it was a still a sweet, quick journey that had me satisfied.
This is a sweet New Adult with plenty of sexy to it. If that's what you enjoy, give this one a lookie.
They met in high school and fell hard for each other. But something happened that had her leaving for college without talking to him. Now she's back, diploma in hand, for her best friends wedding. She's gonna just be friends or get him out of her system, but then she's headed back to New York for Law school. Too bad her heart didn't get the memo and he had never stopped loving her. This summer is gonna be fun.
Nora is strong and determined, all things I love about her. She struggles with decisions but she does grow a lot in the book. The law school thing is her fathers dream and it's so clear that music is hers but she gave that up when she left for college. It's hard to be strong and stand up for your dreams to your parents especially when you have good ones like Nora's. It's clear they have her best interest at heart but her father is too controlling and I will admit to wanting to give him a piece of my mind. By the end, though I loved him and Nora both.
Jake. I always loved Jake. He kinda screwed up right before Nora left for college but it so wasn't his fault. Totally loved the boy. He's passionate and caring. Even though I really couldn't stand Lindsay at all, I loved that he wasn't mean to her. Jake has been hurt, a lot. But he has picked himself up and gone to school. He worked construction and went to night classes, determined to make something of himself. I admired that so much in him. I love that he has a dog named Max. I love his relationship with his parents. I love that he gets moody when he's frustrated and upset. He needs some space. I love that he's willing to give space to others when they need it. I love that he stood up to someone (I can't tell you who) finally. I love his secretive dates that he plans so well. I love that he's patient with his loving. He's one sexy guy in the bedroom - or anywhere else for that matter. Just love Jake.
There were a few things that bugged me in this book. One was the cover. While I love the cover, it doesn't really go with the book. This story takes place in a southern, country town and that's as close as you get. This book is about lawyers and architects maybe some construction but no farming equipment. It is a sweet cover, though, and that part fits.
The authors writing style took a bit for me to get used to. There was a lot of summarizing mixed in between the more current scenes. While that style can be very effective, it's not something I'm used to. By the end, I was okay with it.
I did see things coming but it was a still a sweet, quick journey that had me satisfied.
This is a sweet New Adult with plenty of sexy to it. If that's what you enjoy, give this one a lookie.
February 14, 2016
A sweet and short romance book.
Nora and Jake were girlfriend and boyfriend, until one fateful evening when Jake didn't show up during a very important date. Nora left for college and didn't come back. Until now that is.
I really liked Nora, she was a really great girl and though I wish she had gone against her dad more. Not let herself be shipped off away from home that easily. But I really liked her how she acted, how friendly she was and how quickly she forgave Jake, when she found out why he never showed up. (which btw, was nothing earth-shattering, so nothing of him cheating or whatsoever (which I kind of expected though, knowing Jake's past)).
Jake, ah Jake, I really liked him, though I wish he was a bit more honest with things. Instead of letting things just happen, I wish he tried more, tried to communicate with Nora. Not only about that thing that broke them apart, but also about a certain girl that popped in his life during that break-up time).
The side-characters: Susie and Ethan, were really lovely and I liked that they were prominent in the story. They seem to be a perfect couple and I really loved the wedding. Especially Susie, she was a wonderful friend and I love her and Nora's conversations about various things.
I really disliked Nora's parents, for what they did, and for being not letting her go, they just have to control every aspect of her life. Sorry, but your daughter has grown up, let her go. Let her decide what she wants. And not only trying to control her, but they are also trying to get rid of Jake in many ways as possible. Tsk, sad that parents are sometimes like this.
Also I loved the dual POVs, really nice to get to know them both instead of seeing it only from one POV.
I however skipped over the sex scenes or various times that Jake's hard erection were mentioned. There weren't that many in the beginning but around the middle things just started to heat up more, and I was like no thank you, no thank you at all. :\ I should have know not to read NA unless I was sure there wouldn't be too much of this.
All in all I would rate this book 3 stars.
Nora and Jake were girlfriend and boyfriend, until one fateful evening when Jake didn't show up during a very important date. Nora left for college and didn't come back. Until now that is.
I really liked Nora, she was a really great girl and though I wish she had gone against her dad more. Not let herself be shipped off away from home that easily. But I really liked her how she acted, how friendly she was and how quickly she forgave Jake, when she found out why he never showed up. (which btw, was nothing earth-shattering, so nothing of him cheating or whatsoever (which I kind of expected though, knowing Jake's past)).
Jake, ah Jake, I really liked him, though I wish he was a bit more honest with things. Instead of letting things just happen, I wish he tried more, tried to communicate with Nora. Not only about that thing that broke them apart, but also about a certain girl that popped in his life during that break-up time).
The side-characters: Susie and Ethan, were really lovely and I liked that they were prominent in the story. They seem to be a perfect couple and I really loved the wedding. Especially Susie, she was a wonderful friend and I love her and Nora's conversations about various things.
I really disliked Nora's parents, for what they did, and for being not letting her go, they just have to control every aspect of her life. Sorry, but your daughter has grown up, let her go. Let her decide what she wants. And not only trying to control her, but they are also trying to get rid of Jake in many ways as possible. Tsk, sad that parents are sometimes like this.
Also I loved the dual POVs, really nice to get to know them both instead of seeing it only from one POV.
I however skipped over the sex scenes or various times that Jake's hard erection were mentioned. There weren't that many in the beginning but around the middle things just started to heat up more, and I was like no thank you, no thank you at all. :\ I should have know not to read NA unless I was sure there wouldn't be too much of this.
All in all I would rate this book 3 stars.
July 27, 2013
I cannot describe exactly how much I really loved this book! the author outdid themselves with this well written emotion packed book.
although I've read books with a similar storyline of how teenage soul mates break apart due to secrets and find there way back to each other years after, this separated from the same category because as other readers have mentioned that basically the author doesn't beat around the Bush whilst waiting way into the storyline to discover what really kept them apart, which I loved because we could move on from the past and see their relationship develop.
This book just wouldn't be such a success without the characters! I loved learning how a group of friends became as close as Nora, Jake, Susie and Eathan became..
Eathan and Jake have been best friends since kindergarten and then they met his present fiancee Susie and her best friend Nora in high school. After Eathan and Susie began dating Nora and Jake discovered their attraction for each other however Nora made him work for it which I loved! After the rest of school dating the relationship came to an end when the original plan was for their relationship to continue even though Nora went to new york to attend Law school but a few nights before Nora was due to leave she had planned the night that she would loose her virginity to Jake however he stood her up and never showed. Heartbroken Nora left for new York and never returned untill four years later to attend her best friends wedding where she comes face to face with Jake and learns why he didn't show that night.
I loved how Nora and Jake's relationship as adults grew and how they battle through all the tricky situations thrown at them. I really enjoy this story line so much!
definitely a reread type of book, and I totally recommend this novel packed with an emotional roller coaster ride!
although I've read books with a similar storyline of how teenage soul mates break apart due to secrets and find there way back to each other years after, this separated from the same category because as other readers have mentioned that basically the author doesn't beat around the Bush whilst waiting way into the storyline to discover what really kept them apart, which I loved because we could move on from the past and see their relationship develop.
This book just wouldn't be such a success without the characters! I loved learning how a group of friends became as close as Nora, Jake, Susie and Eathan became..
Eathan and Jake have been best friends since kindergarten and then they met his present fiancee Susie and her best friend Nora in high school. After Eathan and Susie began dating Nora and Jake discovered their attraction for each other however Nora made him work for it which I loved! After the rest of school dating the relationship came to an end when the original plan was for their relationship to continue even though Nora went to new york to attend Law school but a few nights before Nora was due to leave she had planned the night that she would loose her virginity to Jake however he stood her up and never showed. Heartbroken Nora left for new York and never returned untill four years later to attend her best friends wedding where she comes face to face with Jake and learns why he didn't show that night.
I loved how Nora and Jake's relationship as adults grew and how they battle through all the tricky situations thrown at them. I really enjoy this story line so much!
definitely a reread type of book, and I totally recommend this novel packed with an emotional roller coaster ride!
July 23, 2013
This Time Around was perfect and that is exactly the reason why it wasn’t for me.
Perfect guy, perfect girl, perfect relationship that blossoms as soon as they meet again, perfect jobs, almost-perfect parents that at the end turn out perfect.
When I read the summary, I thought that there would be a little more conflict between the two of them since Nora was heart broken all these years. But right when she gets back home, Jake and her patch things up right away and everyone is happy. Of course, the author wanted to show some sort of emotional rollercoaster so there was problem with Nora’s parents and a bitch named Lindsey who was jealous of Nora’s and Jake’s love. But of course it doesn’t stop them with being in puppy-love stage most of the time.
Writing was enjoyable except some of the conversations that they had felt force and unreal. Again, might not be a problem for some people but if you’re someone that’s really picky when it comes to the book, you might notice this as well.
I did enjoy the book but would loved to see more spice, more raw emotions and not just lovey-dovey kisses. This story did remind me of Notebook (which I loved) but it felt more natural then This Time Around, even if it was very sweet.
Perfect guy, perfect girl, perfect relationship that blossoms as soon as they meet again, perfect jobs, almost-perfect parents that at the end turn out perfect.
When I read the summary, I thought that there would be a little more conflict between the two of them since Nora was heart broken all these years. But right when she gets back home, Jake and her patch things up right away and everyone is happy. Of course, the author wanted to show some sort of emotional rollercoaster so there was problem with Nora’s parents and a bitch named Lindsey who was jealous of Nora’s and Jake’s love. But of course it doesn’t stop them with being in puppy-love stage most of the time.
Writing was enjoyable except some of the conversations that they had felt force and unreal. Again, might not be a problem for some people but if you’re someone that’s really picky when it comes to the book, you might notice this as well.
I did enjoy the book but would loved to see more spice, more raw emotions and not just lovey-dovey kisses. This story did remind me of Notebook (which I loved) but it felt more natural then This Time Around, even if it was very sweet.
November 20, 2014
This Time Around is a wonderful summer read that resembles the feel of Sweet Home Alabama. Two teens are in love but get separated after high school. A wedding forces them to interact again a few years later. Despite the pain, they try to keep their feelings from each other, yet are still drawn to each other. Jake is a super sweet, romantic man and Nora is a strong woman. In the midst of the two reconnecting and trying to figure out the future, lies are uncovered that could change everything they know.
I would have liked a bit more to their story, or a prologue to the book, but honestly that is my only complaint. This Time Around was sweet and romantic, yet had some heart-stopping angst. I loved their steamy scenes and the humor that definitely balanced out the book. The romance is the real-life relatable kind that makes you smile when you are done reading.
Overall, I would definitely recommend this book!
I would have liked a bit more to their story, or a prologue to the book, but honestly that is my only complaint. This Time Around was sweet and romantic, yet had some heart-stopping angst. I loved their steamy scenes and the humor that definitely balanced out the book. The romance is the real-life relatable kind that makes you smile when you are done reading.
Overall, I would definitely recommend this book!
July 22, 2013
I had the opportunity to beta read this book and I loved getting to know these characters. While their story isn't overly complicated and the angst is light, I found their love story endearing and steamy. I was stunned that this was a debut novel and I can't wait to see more from Ellie Grace! Definitely check this one if you're looking for a lighter, steamy romance!
July 29, 2013
This was a sweet second chance love story.
April 20, 2022
⭐️⭐️⭐️
I was torn on rating this either 2.5 or 3 stars.
I’ve been in a bit of a reading slump so I thought another light read romance would be a nice.
Again this is something that I didn’t love but also didn’t hate.
I did enjoy this and read it easily within a half a day.
The only thing I do have to say is the pacing of the book is so fast. There doesn’t appear to be any time between when the two main characters become involved again. This also means there was hardly any angst involved in this. I think more tension between the characters would of made this so much better as I think it is a key component to a second chance romance.
However this was still an sweet and light easy read. I found it a good little read during my reading slump as it didn’t have me overthinking or mess with my head 🤣.
I was torn on rating this either 2.5 or 3 stars.
I’ve been in a bit of a reading slump so I thought another light read romance would be a nice.
Again this is something that I didn’t love but also didn’t hate.
I did enjoy this and read it easily within a half a day.
The only thing I do have to say is the pacing of the book is so fast. There doesn’t appear to be any time between when the two main characters become involved again. This also means there was hardly any angst involved in this. I think more tension between the characters would of made this so much better as I think it is a key component to a second chance romance.
However this was still an sweet and light easy read. I found it a good little read during my reading slump as it didn’t have me overthinking or mess with my head 🤣.
February 7, 2014
2.5 - 3 Stars
Read this and other reviews at Madison Says!
By the title alone it’s pretty easy to deduce that this is yet again another second chance romance. Ellie Grace’s debut novel, This Time Around, was just a little too perfect for my liking. It’s a sweet story, easy to read, but leaves you craving just a bit more.
Now that I was actually here it was easy to remember why I fled to New York and stayed away for so long. Everything about this place made me think of him.
Jake.
Nora Montgomery scooped up her broken heart and moved from North Carolina to NYC to attend college. She’d been dating Jake Harris. She had thought he was her forever. Only, he didn’t seem to share that idea.
Four years later…
Nora is back in North Carolina for the summer. Her best friend is getting married, and she’s in the wedding party. Guess who else is in the wedding party? Uh huh, you know it. Jake. After four long years of avoiding her home town, Nora is pretty much forced to face her past. Naturally, she never got over Jake. When she runs into him, it would appear that he’s never gotten over her either.
Yay for misunderstandings! I guess way back when, Jake and Nora were supposed to bump uglies for the first time. Gah, that is such a hideous term for sexing it up. Jake never shows and Nora takes that as him essentially dumping her. That was his M.O. in the past when trying to rid himself of a girl. But it’s not so cut and dry. Jake had a reason for not showing up that night – a dumb one, but a reason none the less. Instead of talking it out with Jake, Nora leaves for college early. DUMB. If this man is your “everything,”wouldn’t you want to talk to him and see what they hell is going on? I know I would. Well, four years later she fiiiiiiiinally does. What she finds out seems to shock her, but she quickly forgives Jake and moves on. Uhhhh… too simple.
Jake had told me once that he’d never actually broken up with any of the girls he “dated”; he just stopped calling and ignored them until they got the hint that he was done with them. He always told me that I was “special,” so I never considered that he would do that to me. Obviously, I was wrong. About everything.
While they were apart for the four years, Nora was never with anyone else. No one gave her that feeling deep down in her gut. Jake on the other hand, slept with his best friend’s cousin who is gah-ross and will not leave him alone. She also happened to hate Nora when they were in high school. Good move, Jake! To be honest, I thought there would be more drama revolving around that whole situation, but it was pretty mild. I have a love/hate relationship with these types of things. I want the drama, but hate it all at the same time. I know. Odd.
Really, a good chunk of the story is about Nora finding out that she needs to be true to herself. That, I totally dug. I love when a character wakes up and realize that making someone else in their life happy when they themselves aren’t being totally true to….themselves, is no way to live. Nora’s dad wants her to become a lawyer, work for and eventually take over his firm. That’s all well and good. Actually, she seems to like law, but she’s also got this overwhelming love of music. In the end, she’s able to do what she loves, of course.
This story is so sweet it hurts my teeth. Jake is a great guy who doesn’t feel worthy of Nora. He’s stuck in this mindset that he’s some worthless playboy, when he’s not. He’s smart, hardworking – you know, the whole damn package. This is the type of story you read after something deep and depressing. This Time Around may not have been my cup of tea, but I am excited to see what Ellie Grace rolls out with next.
Read this and other reviews at Madison Says!
By the title alone it’s pretty easy to deduce that this is yet again another second chance romance. Ellie Grace’s debut novel, This Time Around, was just a little too perfect for my liking. It’s a sweet story, easy to read, but leaves you craving just a bit more.
Now that I was actually here it was easy to remember why I fled to New York and stayed away for so long. Everything about this place made me think of him.
Jake.
Nora Montgomery scooped up her broken heart and moved from North Carolina to NYC to attend college. She’d been dating Jake Harris. She had thought he was her forever. Only, he didn’t seem to share that idea.
Four years later…
Nora is back in North Carolina for the summer. Her best friend is getting married, and she’s in the wedding party. Guess who else is in the wedding party? Uh huh, you know it. Jake. After four long years of avoiding her home town, Nora is pretty much forced to face her past. Naturally, she never got over Jake. When she runs into him, it would appear that he’s never gotten over her either.
Yay for misunderstandings! I guess way back when, Jake and Nora were supposed to bump uglies for the first time. Gah, that is such a hideous term for sexing it up. Jake never shows and Nora takes that as him essentially dumping her. That was his M.O. in the past when trying to rid himself of a girl. But it’s not so cut and dry. Jake had a reason for not showing up that night – a dumb one, but a reason none the less. Instead of talking it out with Jake, Nora leaves for college early. DUMB. If this man is your “everything,”wouldn’t you want to talk to him and see what they hell is going on? I know I would. Well, four years later she fiiiiiiiinally does. What she finds out seems to shock her, but she quickly forgives Jake and moves on. Uhhhh… too simple.
Jake had told me once that he’d never actually broken up with any of the girls he “dated”; he just stopped calling and ignored them until they got the hint that he was done with them. He always told me that I was “special,” so I never considered that he would do that to me. Obviously, I was wrong. About everything.
While they were apart for the four years, Nora was never with anyone else. No one gave her that feeling deep down in her gut. Jake on the other hand, slept with his best friend’s cousin who is gah-ross and will not leave him alone. She also happened to hate Nora when they were in high school. Good move, Jake! To be honest, I thought there would be more drama revolving around that whole situation, but it was pretty mild. I have a love/hate relationship with these types of things. I want the drama, but hate it all at the same time. I know. Odd.
Really, a good chunk of the story is about Nora finding out that she needs to be true to herself. That, I totally dug. I love when a character wakes up and realize that making someone else in their life happy when they themselves aren’t being totally true to….themselves, is no way to live. Nora’s dad wants her to become a lawyer, work for and eventually take over his firm. That’s all well and good. Actually, she seems to like law, but she’s also got this overwhelming love of music. In the end, she’s able to do what she loves, of course.
This story is so sweet it hurts my teeth. Jake is a great guy who doesn’t feel worthy of Nora. He’s stuck in this mindset that he’s some worthless playboy, when he’s not. He’s smart, hardworking – you know, the whole damn package. This is the type of story you read after something deep and depressing. This Time Around may not have been my cup of tea, but I am excited to see what Ellie Grace rolls out with next.
July 28, 2013
This book was a sweet read with a solid story and some great characters, however, I only wish there was a little more angst and drama…
Moving back home for the summer, Nora expects to run in to Jake at some point, however what she didn’t expect was to feel just as hurt and betrayed by him as she did the last night she was in town. Not wanting to end up hurt again, she tells herself that they can be friends as after the summer she will be going back to New York, however, she soon finds that the chemistry they shared 4 years ago is still there and its not so easy to move on when she doesn’t know why Jake ended their relationship in the first place.
I found Nora to be an incredibly relatable character. She was smart, and responsible, while still knowing exactly how to let her hair down and have a good time. The relationship between Nora and her parents was the thing that frustrated me (in the best way) the most while I was reading this book. Although with everyone else Nora is self assured and confident, when it comes to her parents she becomes a little girl, letting them control her life and her decisions. Although I could totally see why she wouldn’t want to do it, I was desperate for her to stand up to her them and live her own life.
Jake is incredibly sweet in this book and nothing but attentive to Nora, he knew that he had messed up last time and desperately wanted to prove himself to her. He was constantly being romantic and surprising her, and was the kind of boyfriend that every girl would love.
“…I’ve never had to worry about what happens afterwards, but with you it’s completely different. If you do what you’ve always done, then you’ll get what you’ve always got…and I don’t want just a one-time thing with you. I don’t want to ever let you go.”
The only thing that annoyed me a little was when Nora first gets back in to town. I hated how he initially acted like nothing was wrong between them and was flirting like nothing had changed, I wanted him to work for it a little bit as at the end of the day it was his stupid choice to leave Nora in the first place.
I really liked the relationship between Nora and Jake and found it to be very realistic. They were incredibly sweet together from the very beginning and there was never any doubt in my mind that they would end up back with each other.
“…I’ve been yours since the day we met…yours and only yours…”
However, saying that, I would have liked if the author had dragged out Jake’s explanation as to why he broke up with her years before a little bit more. It kind of felt like I was barely even in to the story before I found out what had happened. It would have been nice for the angst and wonder over it to be carried on at least a little bit longer and for Nora to be a little less open to him so quickly so that Jake would have had to work for it a little more. It all seemed a little too easy for things to happen how they did and it disappointed me a little.
All about choices and forgiveness, this book is a nice light, easy read with some great characters. I liked this book and would definitely recommend it to someone who’s looking for something not too heavy, with a solid story and a HEA! Personally I like books with a little more angst and drama but still found this book to be a nice change from my usual reads!
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Moving back home for the summer, Nora expects to run in to Jake at some point, however what she didn’t expect was to feel just as hurt and betrayed by him as she did the last night she was in town. Not wanting to end up hurt again, she tells herself that they can be friends as after the summer she will be going back to New York, however, she soon finds that the chemistry they shared 4 years ago is still there and its not so easy to move on when she doesn’t know why Jake ended their relationship in the first place.
I found Nora to be an incredibly relatable character. She was smart, and responsible, while still knowing exactly how to let her hair down and have a good time. The relationship between Nora and her parents was the thing that frustrated me (in the best way) the most while I was reading this book. Although with everyone else Nora is self assured and confident, when it comes to her parents she becomes a little girl, letting them control her life and her decisions. Although I could totally see why she wouldn’t want to do it, I was desperate for her to stand up to her them and live her own life.
Jake is incredibly sweet in this book and nothing but attentive to Nora, he knew that he had messed up last time and desperately wanted to prove himself to her. He was constantly being romantic and surprising her, and was the kind of boyfriend that every girl would love.
“…I’ve never had to worry about what happens afterwards, but with you it’s completely different. If you do what you’ve always done, then you’ll get what you’ve always got…and I don’t want just a one-time thing with you. I don’t want to ever let you go.”
The only thing that annoyed me a little was when Nora first gets back in to town. I hated how he initially acted like nothing was wrong between them and was flirting like nothing had changed, I wanted him to work for it a little bit as at the end of the day it was his stupid choice to leave Nora in the first place.
I really liked the relationship between Nora and Jake and found it to be very realistic. They were incredibly sweet together from the very beginning and there was never any doubt in my mind that they would end up back with each other.
“…I’ve been yours since the day we met…yours and only yours…”
However, saying that, I would have liked if the author had dragged out Jake’s explanation as to why he broke up with her years before a little bit more. It kind of felt like I was barely even in to the story before I found out what had happened. It would have been nice for the angst and wonder over it to be carried on at least a little bit longer and for Nora to be a little less open to him so quickly so that Jake would have had to work for it a little more. It all seemed a little too easy for things to happen how they did and it disappointed me a little.
All about choices and forgiveness, this book is a nice light, easy read with some great characters. I liked this book and would definitely recommend it to someone who’s looking for something not too heavy, with a solid story and a HEA! Personally I like books with a little more angst and drama but still found this book to be a nice change from my usual reads!
SEE THIS REVIEW ON MY BLOG/LIKE BLAME IT ON THE RAIN REVIEWS ON FACEBOOK/FOLLOW ME ON TWITTER
November 24, 2013
Favorite Quote(s):
“I’d wondered before if we were kidding ourselves with the idea that things between us could ever be as good as they were before, and it was true. We couldn’t go back to the way things were, and it would never be the same as it was.”
Favorite Character: Jake. He was persistent.
First Line:
“When I first set foot outside the airport and got a taste of the fresh South Carolina air, I felt like I could finally breath again.”
My Musings: If I’m going to be completely honest, this was yet again one of the books that I took an interest in mainly because of the cover. I know, very shallow of me. But then with the synopsis, I just had to give it a try. So when Ellie granted my review request, I was so excited!
This Time Around follows Nora as she ventures back to her home town four years after college for her best friend’s wedding. But of course, still residing in that town is the guy who broke her heart four years prior. But Nora is determined not to fall again. But when everything she thought happened proved to be false, will Nora finally give into the temptation?
Nora was a good character. She was spunky and devious. I enjoyed her resolve to not fall for Jake when she journeyed home. I always like it when the girl puts up a fight and doesn’t instantly fall into a guys arms swooning. But unfortunately, it didn’t last as long as I would have liked. Regardless, it was refreshing for a bit!
“Even though he’d told me he loved me and promised to make it work, he’d clearly had a change of heart. That had been his way of ending it. What else could it have been?”
Something that I didn’t like about her, though, was the fact that she was an assumer. She assumed about almost everything, and it was kind of irritating at times.
“‘Jake,’ he chuckled, ‘Didn’t anyone ever tell you that love doesn’t make any sense? Sometimes when you meet the right person, you just know; and you stop looking for anything else ’cause you know you already found her.’”
I don’t have much to say about Jake. I mean, he was an okay character, nothing really extraordinary. He was determined, though, to get Nora back. He really came a long way from the teenager that he was four years prior.
“The feel of the cool coastal breeze on your face, the quiet shade of the towering live oak trees, and swinging off a rope into the refreshing water of the river on a hot day…there was nothing quite like it.”
Something I enjoyed about this novel was the setting. My oh my! The way that the setting of the story was described was beautiful. It was easy to picture the places in the novel in my head. I was a nice touch, seeing as it wasn’t the most intricate writing in the world. But if there’s anything that Ellie Grace is good at, it’s writing a fantastic setting!
A few things I didn’t like. There was a bit of info dumping at points throughout the novel. Not too much to where it was overwhelming, but it was noticeable. But I think perfecting it will come with time! Another this was that it was a very dramatic novel. So much to where it was kind of corny. Definitely had some rolling my eyes moments. That was probably in part due to the excessive use of exclamation points. That’s what really bothered me. It made it seem as if they were telling everything they said. This novel was also more sex oriented than I thought it would be. At first it wasn’t, but once they got together, there was more than I thought there would be. It was just strange to me.
Overall, This Time Around was your average novel. It wasn’t, or course, terrible, and it is something I definitely would recommend for anyone who enjoys NA contemporaries. But it wasn’t extraordinary either. The potential is there, and I can’t wait to see what else Ellie had up her sleeve.
“I’d wondered before if we were kidding ourselves with the idea that things between us could ever be as good as they were before, and it was true. We couldn’t go back to the way things were, and it would never be the same as it was.”
Favorite Character: Jake. He was persistent.
First Line:
“When I first set foot outside the airport and got a taste of the fresh South Carolina air, I felt like I could finally breath again.”
My Musings: If I’m going to be completely honest, this was yet again one of the books that I took an interest in mainly because of the cover. I know, very shallow of me. But then with the synopsis, I just had to give it a try. So when Ellie granted my review request, I was so excited!
This Time Around follows Nora as she ventures back to her home town four years after college for her best friend’s wedding. But of course, still residing in that town is the guy who broke her heart four years prior. But Nora is determined not to fall again. But when everything she thought happened proved to be false, will Nora finally give into the temptation?
Nora was a good character. She was spunky and devious. I enjoyed her resolve to not fall for Jake when she journeyed home. I always like it when the girl puts up a fight and doesn’t instantly fall into a guys arms swooning. But unfortunately, it didn’t last as long as I would have liked. Regardless, it was refreshing for a bit!
“Even though he’d told me he loved me and promised to make it work, he’d clearly had a change of heart. That had been his way of ending it. What else could it have been?”
Something that I didn’t like about her, though, was the fact that she was an assumer. She assumed about almost everything, and it was kind of irritating at times.
“‘Jake,’ he chuckled, ‘Didn’t anyone ever tell you that love doesn’t make any sense? Sometimes when you meet the right person, you just know; and you stop looking for anything else ’cause you know you already found her.’”
I don’t have much to say about Jake. I mean, he was an okay character, nothing really extraordinary. He was determined, though, to get Nora back. He really came a long way from the teenager that he was four years prior.
“The feel of the cool coastal breeze on your face, the quiet shade of the towering live oak trees, and swinging off a rope into the refreshing water of the river on a hot day…there was nothing quite like it.”
Something I enjoyed about this novel was the setting. My oh my! The way that the setting of the story was described was beautiful. It was easy to picture the places in the novel in my head. I was a nice touch, seeing as it wasn’t the most intricate writing in the world. But if there’s anything that Ellie Grace is good at, it’s writing a fantastic setting!
A few things I didn’t like. There was a bit of info dumping at points throughout the novel. Not too much to where it was overwhelming, but it was noticeable. But I think perfecting it will come with time! Another this was that it was a very dramatic novel. So much to where it was kind of corny. Definitely had some rolling my eyes moments. That was probably in part due to the excessive use of exclamation points. That’s what really bothered me. It made it seem as if they were telling everything they said. This novel was also more sex oriented than I thought it would be. At first it wasn’t, but once they got together, there was more than I thought there would be. It was just strange to me.
Overall, This Time Around was your average novel. It wasn’t, or course, terrible, and it is something I definitely would recommend for anyone who enjoys NA contemporaries. But it wasn’t extraordinary either. The potential is there, and I can’t wait to see what else Ellie had up her sleeve.
May 11, 2016
This is definitely not the most original take on This Time Around. In fact, I actually read it in another review first but it is so freaking true.
The Notebook
+
Sweet Home Alabama
=
This Time Around
Let's recap, shall we?
We have a couple madly in love
Who are forced apart
Add in some meddling parents
And then the girl comes home back South from the big city
And sparks fly once again
Could certain obstacles keep them apart?
Or will they get their happy ending?
Oh, and don't forget the house he built for her
And his visit to the big city that makes him decide to be better for her
And her unhappiness with her current life
And the meddling parent's emotional revelation
Admit it. You love these two movies as much as I do. They're well loved, and while nothing in This Time Around will truly surprise, you'll love it as much as I love these two movies.
The Notebook
+
Sweet Home Alabama
=
This Time Around
Let's recap, shall we?
We have a couple madly in love
Who are forced apart
Add in some meddling parents
And then the girl comes home back South from the big city
And sparks fly once again
Could certain obstacles keep them apart?
Or will they get their happy ending?
Oh, and don't forget the house he built for her
And his visit to the big city that makes him decide to be better for her
And her unhappiness with her current life
And the meddling parent's emotional revelation
Admit it. You love these two movies as much as I do. They're well loved, and while nothing in This Time Around will truly surprise, you'll love it as much as I love these two movies.
July 26, 2013
Nora Montgomery left her family and her friends behind for college in New York City. But she was also running from the heartbreak of her high school sweetheart, Jake Harris, leaving her high and dry without any explanation. The heartbreak was so bad that she hasn't set foot in her hometown once since she's been gone. But that's all about to change as the comes home for the summer and her best friend's wedding. She may think she's over Jake, but Jake has something to prove to her. This time around he's not going to let town rumors and prejudices keep him from the only girl he's ever loved.
I've been vacillating on what I felt about this book. There are times I really liked the second chance at love storyline and was happy Nora and Jake could make a go of it the second time. But then at other times I was really bugged at the fact Nora pretty much just picked up where things left off years before. Forget the heartbreak, heartache and the fact that she had avoided her hometown, family and friends because of what happened with Jake. Practically the minute she sees Jake she lets the past go and picks up where they left off. That bugged me. Nora gave into Jake too easily. When she discovered what her parents did, she was quick to be angry, leave and eventually have it out with her father, but it never felt like she ever really stood up for herself and Jake. In the end, she did, but in my opinion, it should have been something she did right away, rather than run away to Jake's apartment to hide out. Stand up for your man!
I really liked Jake. He got the raw end of the deal when it came to his relationship with Nora. Labeled a kid from the wrong end of town he could do no right in the eyes of a lot of people in town, including Nora's parents. He always felt Nora would be better with someone else, but he loved her. When he was confronted by Nora's father on the night he was supposed to meet her, he did something he knew would not only devastate Nora, but also himself, all in the hopes that Nora would get what she wanted out of life. Sure, he should have talked to Nora rather than believe her father, but at eighteen when an elder tells you letting the girl you love pursue her dreams without you is for the best, you tend to believe them (even if you don't really believe them yourself). Jake stayed local, earned a degree and was a very productive member of town, but he still had that troublemaker label by some...which really bothered me. But Jake persevered. He knew what he wanted and he was going to work for it and make sure everyone knew he was worth the woman he loved and she was worthy of him.
Despite my feelings about Nora, this was a solid read with a great second chance romance. Jake is a little swoon worthy and makes up for what I didn't like in Nora.
I've been vacillating on what I felt about this book. There are times I really liked the second chance at love storyline and was happy Nora and Jake could make a go of it the second time. But then at other times I was really bugged at the fact Nora pretty much just picked up where things left off years before. Forget the heartbreak, heartache and the fact that she had avoided her hometown, family and friends because of what happened with Jake. Practically the minute she sees Jake she lets the past go and picks up where they left off. That bugged me. Nora gave into Jake too easily. When she discovered what her parents did, she was quick to be angry, leave and eventually have it out with her father, but it never felt like she ever really stood up for herself and Jake. In the end, she did, but in my opinion, it should have been something she did right away, rather than run away to Jake's apartment to hide out. Stand up for your man!
I really liked Jake. He got the raw end of the deal when it came to his relationship with Nora. Labeled a kid from the wrong end of town he could do no right in the eyes of a lot of people in town, including Nora's parents. He always felt Nora would be better with someone else, but he loved her. When he was confronted by Nora's father on the night he was supposed to meet her, he did something he knew would not only devastate Nora, but also himself, all in the hopes that Nora would get what she wanted out of life. Sure, he should have talked to Nora rather than believe her father, but at eighteen when an elder tells you letting the girl you love pursue her dreams without you is for the best, you tend to believe them (even if you don't really believe them yourself). Jake stayed local, earned a degree and was a very productive member of town, but he still had that troublemaker label by some...which really bothered me. But Jake persevered. He knew what he wanted and he was going to work for it and make sure everyone knew he was worth the woman he loved and she was worthy of him.
Despite my feelings about Nora, this was a solid read with a great second chance romance. Jake is a little swoon worthy and makes up for what I didn't like in Nora.
July 31, 2013
This book is just what this small town girl needed. I loved it! It was hot, sexy and beautiful. It was full of pure passion that for some never seems to die. It is about a small town girl not only trying to find her way in the world but to find the love in her heart that she left behind when she went to the big city.
Nora seemed to have her life planned out from her, up next… law school and joining her dad’s firm when she was done. She had already made the decision to do all of these just four years before when she headed off to NYU. But as we learn, sometimes what is expected of us may not be what we want in our heart.
But there’s the problem… four years ago, he broke her heart. Jake broke her heart. They were supposed to be together forever and she felt it deep down. But right before she left to go to college, he abandoned her. She was left alone and she was hurting. Four years of hurt and ache and she finally returns to her small hometown for the summer and for her best friend’s wedding.
But what she finds when she returns home is Jake. Jake is still in love with her. He knows it. But how does he let her know what really happened before she left that had him running in the other direction, away from the one thing he truly would never be complete without?
When Nora learns the truth she is so completely hurt and she doesn’t know what to do. Suddenly torn between the people she loves, she is lost… Jake is perfect for her, but with the clouds of the past hurt hovering nearby, will Nora be able to go after what she truly wants and loves or will she be forced to choose between those she loves?
This book had such a small town feel to it; I couldn’t help but love it. Nora and Jake were so amazing when they were together; I spent a lot of the book wondering what the four years were like for them when they were apart.
I loved the first person feel of this book. Both perspectives were represented and it was done very well. I am always a bit apprehensive reading two perspectives in one book, but this was done in such a way, that it did not distract me. I was eager to see the same situation from both perspectives.
This book had passion, love and angst. It had them all in the right amount. I didn’t feel overwhelmed and like the book was more one than the other. I truly appreciated the circumstances and the passion of the characters in this book and I cannot wait for the next book by Ellie Grace. I am so excited to continue on with Jake and Nora and their friends.
*I received a complimentary copy of This Time Around in exchange for an honest review*
Nora seemed to have her life planned out from her, up next… law school and joining her dad’s firm when she was done. She had already made the decision to do all of these just four years before when she headed off to NYU. But as we learn, sometimes what is expected of us may not be what we want in our heart.
But there’s the problem… four years ago, he broke her heart. Jake broke her heart. They were supposed to be together forever and she felt it deep down. But right before she left to go to college, he abandoned her. She was left alone and she was hurting. Four years of hurt and ache and she finally returns to her small hometown for the summer and for her best friend’s wedding.
But what she finds when she returns home is Jake. Jake is still in love with her. He knows it. But how does he let her know what really happened before she left that had him running in the other direction, away from the one thing he truly would never be complete without?
When Nora learns the truth she is so completely hurt and she doesn’t know what to do. Suddenly torn between the people she loves, she is lost… Jake is perfect for her, but with the clouds of the past hurt hovering nearby, will Nora be able to go after what she truly wants and loves or will she be forced to choose between those she loves?
This book had such a small town feel to it; I couldn’t help but love it. Nora and Jake were so amazing when they were together; I spent a lot of the book wondering what the four years were like for them when they were apart.
I loved the first person feel of this book. Both perspectives were represented and it was done very well. I am always a bit apprehensive reading two perspectives in one book, but this was done in such a way, that it did not distract me. I was eager to see the same situation from both perspectives.
This book had passion, love and angst. It had them all in the right amount. I didn’t feel overwhelmed and like the book was more one than the other. I truly appreciated the circumstances and the passion of the characters in this book and I cannot wait for the next book by Ellie Grace. I am so excited to continue on with Jake and Nora and their friends.
*I received a complimentary copy of This Time Around in exchange for an honest review*
July 29, 2013
Into the Night Reviews
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If you're looking for a sweet, uncomplicated love story then This Time Around is a perfect choice. The book tells the story of Nora and Jake, high school sweethearts who broke up just before Nora left to got to NYU. For four years the two lived their lives apart, but never really recovered from the break up or moved on from their feelings for each other. As best friends Susie and Ethan are set to wed, Nora returns to her hometown of Beaufort and must prepare herself for seeing Jake again for the first time in four years. What follows is a beautiful story about finding love that both Nora and Jake had thought lost and discovering the courage to follow dreams that really matter.
Nora is a bright young woman, talented song writer and singer and four years into her law degree. With a loving family and a father who has very high expectations, Nora has never seriously considered a future other than becoming a lawyer in her fathers firm - apart from a brief time when she was re-evaluating her plans to go to college which would take her away from Jake. But the break up shook those thoughts from her mind and she followed the path expected of her.
Jake on the other hand is a bit of a rough diamond, who has not been able to shake his reputation as a 'bad kid'. The break up with Nora hit him hard and he had a rough patch for a while, but managed to pull himself together and finish a degree in architecture. Working for his father's construction company he is exploring options to pursue his career, but is clearly not complete.
As the two re-connect their feelings are still evident and they must work through issues associated with their break up so they can build a future together. This presents more of a challenge for Nora than Jake as she struggles with meeting her father's expectations and doing what she wants to do. Unlike many books, there is a not mountain of drama in this story. It is a very realistic scenario that plays out and it is written well. This approach was a refreshing change for me and I really enjoyed reading This Time Around as a consequence.
Written from both Nora and Jake's point of view we get to see things from each perspective. I've said before that I am a big fan of this style as it always helps me to connect with both characters. This Time Around is a short, sweet read that left me feeling good at the end of it. I think it is definitely worth picking up.
Web: http://intothenightbookreviews.blogsp...
Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/IntoTheNightR...
for great book reviews, new release updates, giveaways and more!!
If you're looking for a sweet, uncomplicated love story then This Time Around is a perfect choice. The book tells the story of Nora and Jake, high school sweethearts who broke up just before Nora left to got to NYU. For four years the two lived their lives apart, but never really recovered from the break up or moved on from their feelings for each other. As best friends Susie and Ethan are set to wed, Nora returns to her hometown of Beaufort and must prepare herself for seeing Jake again for the first time in four years. What follows is a beautiful story about finding love that both Nora and Jake had thought lost and discovering the courage to follow dreams that really matter.
Nora is a bright young woman, talented song writer and singer and four years into her law degree. With a loving family and a father who has very high expectations, Nora has never seriously considered a future other than becoming a lawyer in her fathers firm - apart from a brief time when she was re-evaluating her plans to go to college which would take her away from Jake. But the break up shook those thoughts from her mind and she followed the path expected of her.
Jake on the other hand is a bit of a rough diamond, who has not been able to shake his reputation as a 'bad kid'. The break up with Nora hit him hard and he had a rough patch for a while, but managed to pull himself together and finish a degree in architecture. Working for his father's construction company he is exploring options to pursue his career, but is clearly not complete.
As the two re-connect their feelings are still evident and they must work through issues associated with their break up so they can build a future together. This presents more of a challenge for Nora than Jake as she struggles with meeting her father's expectations and doing what she wants to do. Unlike many books, there is a not mountain of drama in this story. It is a very realistic scenario that plays out and it is written well. This approach was a refreshing change for me and I really enjoyed reading This Time Around as a consequence.
Written from both Nora and Jake's point of view we get to see things from each perspective. I've said before that I am a big fan of this style as it always helps me to connect with both characters. This Time Around is a short, sweet read that left me feeling good at the end of it. I think it is definitely worth picking up.
August 7, 2013
First of all I have to say that I am absolutely in love with this cover. It just too perfect, sweet, and just fits the characters so well. This is a debut book for author Ellie Grace and I think she did a fabulous job with it. The characters were very likeable; the story was sweet and believable. I thoroughly enjoyed reading this and it is a perfect read for the summer, wish I would have bought it with me to the beach.
We meet Nora as she’s on her way back to her hometown after being gone for four years (left with a broken heart to college in the big city). It’s the summer before she goes back to start Law school, her best friend is getting married and she’s going to be there every step of the way, even if she might run into her ex that broke her heart. Nora seems to me like a character that really does have a good head on her shoulders but seems to always want to please everyone before pleasing herself which is very evident in the way she is around her parents. When she gets back into town the inevitable happens and she runs into Jake (her ex), and there are still sparks there on both sides and even though he left her high and dry she still gives him another chance.
They pretty much pick up where they left off, but the more time they spend together the more they realized that they have missed out on so much, all due to an overbearing parent who thinks he knows best. This is a typical story that can really happen to anyone and it definitely gives me the advice of letting your kids go with the way they feel, because in the end it’s essentially their life and sometimes there will be heartache and hard times but it’s definitely going to have to be their decision. The interactions between Jake and Nora are very special and I know that I enjoyed their scenes together, but I will say this it is just my personal preference but I can’t stand when people call other people Baby, sounds so cliché and it was used a lot. But I know some people like that, just not me.
Jake spends a long time trying to prove himself to Nora’s dad and to everyone around him, he has worked hard in the past four years and believes that even though he still might not be what she deserves he knows that he wants to be with her and will definitely fight for Nora’s happiness. But there are obstacles in the way and it’s all about how the two of them overcome them both together and separately. Again this was just a really sweet read that was much appreciated. It was light, and just a perfect summer read, reading a book about someone else’s summer and how fast and quickly things can change. Gives you hope.
PS I’m in love with this cover.
We meet Nora as she’s on her way back to her hometown after being gone for four years (left with a broken heart to college in the big city). It’s the summer before she goes back to start Law school, her best friend is getting married and she’s going to be there every step of the way, even if she might run into her ex that broke her heart. Nora seems to me like a character that really does have a good head on her shoulders but seems to always want to please everyone before pleasing herself which is very evident in the way she is around her parents. When she gets back into town the inevitable happens and she runs into Jake (her ex), and there are still sparks there on both sides and even though he left her high and dry she still gives him another chance.
They pretty much pick up where they left off, but the more time they spend together the more they realized that they have missed out on so much, all due to an overbearing parent who thinks he knows best. This is a typical story that can really happen to anyone and it definitely gives me the advice of letting your kids go with the way they feel, because in the end it’s essentially their life and sometimes there will be heartache and hard times but it’s definitely going to have to be their decision. The interactions between Jake and Nora are very special and I know that I enjoyed their scenes together, but I will say this it is just my personal preference but I can’t stand when people call other people Baby, sounds so cliché and it was used a lot. But I know some people like that, just not me.
Jake spends a long time trying to prove himself to Nora’s dad and to everyone around him, he has worked hard in the past four years and believes that even though he still might not be what she deserves he knows that he wants to be with her and will definitely fight for Nora’s happiness. But there are obstacles in the way and it’s all about how the two of them overcome them both together and separately. Again this was just a really sweet read that was much appreciated. It was light, and just a perfect summer read, reading a book about someone else’s summer and how fast and quickly things can change. Gives you hope.
PS I’m in love with this cover.
September 13, 2013
Nora returns home to South Carolina after graduating from NYU. During those four years she hasn't been home, preferring to have family and friend visit her. Being home means running into her ex-boyfriend Jake, something that's bound to happen when living in a small town and your best friend is marrying his best friend. When Nora does see Jake, the old feelings quickly resurface. Should she revive old hurts and listen to her heart or keep her distance since she's returning to New York City to attend law school in the fall?
This Time Around is a sweet, romantic falling back in love story. Nora and Jake are a great couple, madly in love with each other and neither has been able to move on with someone else during their time apart. I'm so accustomed to New Adult books having characters full of angst and strife, I was surprised by how quickly this couple rekindled their relationship. I was expecting a bit more conflict but I suppose waiting to see each other after four years and keeping those feelings contained for so long, a couple destined to be together would do exactly what they needed to in order to be together again.
I always enjoy reading dual point-of-view and here I learn how both Nora and Jake feel and where they're coming from. She's a rich girl following in her father's footsteps, knowing he wants to make her a partner in his firm in the future. She's a good girl and follows her parents' direction, but she wasn't always like that. There was a time when Nora easily spoke her mind, was a bit wild, and wanted to write songs and perform them. Jake has a reputation for being a 'bad boy' for some acts committed in his teens. He is now an architect and working for his dad's construction company while renovating a family fishing cabin. He doesn't think he deserves a woman like Nora. Is he right?
This Time Around is an easy read featuring two individuals who must rise against their obstacles--whether it's an overbearing father or breaking away from a town's expectations--and seek their own paths in life. Both have graduated college and love this towns and each other, they need to now live for themselves. The writing is easy to read and the romance sweet. I liked both characters despite Nora's occasional bouts of indecisiveness. There were a few spots where the characters told the reader too much about their past and their feelings and the dialogue seemed a bit forced in a few places. I still enjoyed this romance, despite its lack of conflict, and found myself rooting for these two soul mates to have their HEA.
(http://www.readergirlsblog.com/2013/0...)
This Time Around is a sweet, romantic falling back in love story. Nora and Jake are a great couple, madly in love with each other and neither has been able to move on with someone else during their time apart. I'm so accustomed to New Adult books having characters full of angst and strife, I was surprised by how quickly this couple rekindled their relationship. I was expecting a bit more conflict but I suppose waiting to see each other after four years and keeping those feelings contained for so long, a couple destined to be together would do exactly what they needed to in order to be together again.
I always enjoy reading dual point-of-view and here I learn how both Nora and Jake feel and where they're coming from. She's a rich girl following in her father's footsteps, knowing he wants to make her a partner in his firm in the future. She's a good girl and follows her parents' direction, but she wasn't always like that. There was a time when Nora easily spoke her mind, was a bit wild, and wanted to write songs and perform them. Jake has a reputation for being a 'bad boy' for some acts committed in his teens. He is now an architect and working for his dad's construction company while renovating a family fishing cabin. He doesn't think he deserves a woman like Nora. Is he right?
This Time Around is an easy read featuring two individuals who must rise against their obstacles--whether it's an overbearing father or breaking away from a town's expectations--and seek their own paths in life. Both have graduated college and love this towns and each other, they need to now live for themselves. The writing is easy to read and the romance sweet. I liked both characters despite Nora's occasional bouts of indecisiveness. There were a few spots where the characters told the reader too much about their past and their feelings and the dialogue seemed a bit forced in a few places. I still enjoyed this romance, despite its lack of conflict, and found myself rooting for these two soul mates to have their HEA.
(http://www.readergirlsblog.com/2013/0...)
November 19, 2015
'This Time Around' was a sweet, fun and quick read.
We meet Nora as she heads to her hometown after 4 years of being at college for her best friends wedding. Four years is a long time when you were escaping a broken heart and a shattered dream of taking the next step in your relationship with the one you love.
Nora and Jake met in high school because their best friends were together (the same best friends whose wedding they are about to be maid of honour and best man at). They fell hard and fast for each other, and Nora was completely shattered when Jake just disappears from her life without any explanation, which leads her to leaving early for college and not even returning for any holidays.
When Nora arrives home she realises after seeing Jake again that she never got over him and her feelings still run deep, but she longs for an explanation for what happened on that fateful day four years ago.
Jake regrets his actions and makes it clear straight away that he isn't letting Nora go this time. He has changed a lot in the four years they have been apart but one thing that hasn't changed is his love for Nora. Jake is a beautiful character who puts Nora's needs and happiness before his own and always has done, he is honest in his feelings and has turned himself into a man who isn't afraid to stand up for what he believes in and what he wants....
"There's nothing that could or will ever take me away from you. You're all I want, and now that I finally have you back I'm never letting you go. I love you so much, Nora."
After discovering the reason for their break up Nora is flawed by what happened to rip them apart and it leads her on a journey of self discovery about what it is she wants from life and not what others expect of her. I loved the way that Nora was so open and understanding to Jake's confession and doesn't hold his decision against him. I also really loved that Nora was a strong character, she wasn't whiny or overbearing, she went along with a life that was planned for her until she decided that it wasn't what she wanted and made a stand to make her dreams come true.
This story flowed so well and keep my interest peaked constantly, so much so that before I knew it, it was over and I have to say that the ending was absolutely beautiful and completely perfect for these two lovers. I'm a big fan of dual POV from characters, I love getting into the guys head, and for me this really made the story that much better.
I can't wait for the next book in the series, it will definitely be a must read for me :)
We meet Nora as she heads to her hometown after 4 years of being at college for her best friends wedding. Four years is a long time when you were escaping a broken heart and a shattered dream of taking the next step in your relationship with the one you love.
Nora and Jake met in high school because their best friends were together (the same best friends whose wedding they are about to be maid of honour and best man at). They fell hard and fast for each other, and Nora was completely shattered when Jake just disappears from her life without any explanation, which leads her to leaving early for college and not even returning for any holidays.
When Nora arrives home she realises after seeing Jake again that she never got over him and her feelings still run deep, but she longs for an explanation for what happened on that fateful day four years ago.
Jake regrets his actions and makes it clear straight away that he isn't letting Nora go this time. He has changed a lot in the four years they have been apart but one thing that hasn't changed is his love for Nora. Jake is a beautiful character who puts Nora's needs and happiness before his own and always has done, he is honest in his feelings and has turned himself into a man who isn't afraid to stand up for what he believes in and what he wants....
"There's nothing that could or will ever take me away from you. You're all I want, and now that I finally have you back I'm never letting you go. I love you so much, Nora."
After discovering the reason for their break up Nora is flawed by what happened to rip them apart and it leads her on a journey of self discovery about what it is she wants from life and not what others expect of her. I loved the way that Nora was so open and understanding to Jake's confession and doesn't hold his decision against him. I also really loved that Nora was a strong character, she wasn't whiny or overbearing, she went along with a life that was planned for her until she decided that it wasn't what she wanted and made a stand to make her dreams come true.
This story flowed so well and keep my interest peaked constantly, so much so that before I knew it, it was over and I have to say that the ending was absolutely beautiful and completely perfect for these two lovers. I'm a big fan of dual POV from characters, I love getting into the guys head, and for me this really made the story that much better.
I can't wait for the next book in the series, it will definitely be a must read for me :)
July 23, 2013
3.5 STARS!
to post on www.shhmomsreading.com
This time around was a sweet, romantic debut novel by Ellie Grace that I truly enjoyed.
Nora is home visiting Beaufort, SC after 4 years of college in NYC. She is home to attend her best friend Susie's wedding. What we learn is that Nora fled her hometown after high school because of a bad breakup with town bad boy and first love of her life, Jake Harris.
When she sees Jake for the first time, not only can you feel her anxiety at seeing him but the reader can also see that the attraction and love that they once felt for each other is still there. I will admit that this story reminded me of the movie, The Notebook. A small town rich girl and the boy from the wrong side of the tracks. Though it reminded me of the movie, I still enjoyed this second chance love story.
Nora never understood why Jake didn't show up that fateful day prior to her leaving for college. As the story unfolds, we learn what those reasons are and I can't help but feel that there was so much unnecessary lost time to make up for.
What I completely love about Jake is how hard he worked to prove that he was and has always been the man for her. Though I would have done things differently and communicated more about the obstacles that came in between them, I appreciated his hard work and dedication to do right by the woman he loves.
"You can't always make decisions with your head, there are times you have to listen to your heart and trust that it will steer you in the right direction. We don't choose our path in life, sometimes it chooses us. It might not be the smoothest ride, but you will end up where you're meant to be. Do what makes you happy, no matter what, and don't worry about the details. Details have a way of working themselves out in the end."
Will Nora be able to forgive Jake and put her trust in him again? With her attending law school in NYC and Jake's job in South Carolina, will this be another obstacle in their way or will they be able to go the distance to make it work?
You will have to read this book to find out!
I truly enjoyed these characters. Not only was the love and passion between these two HOT but it was tangible and I could feel it. I enjoyed Ellie's writing style and look forward to reading more from her in the future.
Great job on your debut novel!
to post on www.shhmomsreading.com
This time around was a sweet, romantic debut novel by Ellie Grace that I truly enjoyed.
Nora is home visiting Beaufort, SC after 4 years of college in NYC. She is home to attend her best friend Susie's wedding. What we learn is that Nora fled her hometown after high school because of a bad breakup with town bad boy and first love of her life, Jake Harris.
When she sees Jake for the first time, not only can you feel her anxiety at seeing him but the reader can also see that the attraction and love that they once felt for each other is still there. I will admit that this story reminded me of the movie, The Notebook. A small town rich girl and the boy from the wrong side of the tracks. Though it reminded me of the movie, I still enjoyed this second chance love story.
Nora never understood why Jake didn't show up that fateful day prior to her leaving for college. As the story unfolds, we learn what those reasons are and I can't help but feel that there was so much unnecessary lost time to make up for.
What I completely love about Jake is how hard he worked to prove that he was and has always been the man for her. Though I would have done things differently and communicated more about the obstacles that came in between them, I appreciated his hard work and dedication to do right by the woman he loves.
"You can't always make decisions with your head, there are times you have to listen to your heart and trust that it will steer you in the right direction. We don't choose our path in life, sometimes it chooses us. It might not be the smoothest ride, but you will end up where you're meant to be. Do what makes you happy, no matter what, and don't worry about the details. Details have a way of working themselves out in the end."
Will Nora be able to forgive Jake and put her trust in him again? With her attending law school in NYC and Jake's job in South Carolina, will this be another obstacle in their way or will they be able to go the distance to make it work?
You will have to read this book to find out!
I truly enjoyed these characters. Not only was the love and passion between these two HOT but it was tangible and I could feel it. I enjoyed Ellie's writing style and look forward to reading more from her in the future.
Great job on your debut novel!
January 26, 2014
Read this last year and forgot to post my review! So here it is!
This Time Around was a great little read. Like most NA books there's a lot of the similar characteristics you get in other books. But this one was a specially good one.
I was pretty gripped from the start, and I really enjoyed all the characters that we were introduced to. Nora goes back to her small town for the summer, where she hooks back up with her high school sweetheart Jake. After 4 years of not knowing how each other were doing, Nora and Jake slowly get back into their rhythm and make up for lost time. It starts off as 'just friends' but when can soul mates really be 'just friends'? they can't, so this in turn creates for the future events that come to pass in the book.
Ellie Grace is a wonderful writer, with clear descriptions, a developed plot and developed characters. The story-although short-was all there and it was a story that needed to be told from day one. As a debut novel by Ellie Grace, she has done extremely well and I was very impressed. I looked over a few of the spelling mistakes or missing words, but I put that down to not having an editor just yet. Aside from that, Ellie wrote a wonderful story.
This Time Around is about second chances. Realising who you are, helping others realise their true potential. A story of love, trust and friendship. I'm leaving this a short review, as it'll just be a lot of gushing otherwise. But This Time Around is a very cute summer read that you must give a go. If you're a fan of NA and love sexy males (like Jake) and enjoy reading about characters finding themselves and giving each other second chances, then pick this book up. It's a delightful little read, that will most certainly leave you wanting more. Lucky for us! There will be a book 2 :) so I eagerly anticipate that one. Book 2 moves on from Nora and Jake so there is no need to worry about a cliffhanger, they have their HEA.
This book is NA, and due to sexual situations (which are SUPER hot!) and language it is recommended for 17+ ages.
Note: I received an ARC copy of this from the author in exchange for an honest review.
This Time Around was a great little read. Like most NA books there's a lot of the similar characteristics you get in other books. But this one was a specially good one.
I was pretty gripped from the start, and I really enjoyed all the characters that we were introduced to. Nora goes back to her small town for the summer, where she hooks back up with her high school sweetheart Jake. After 4 years of not knowing how each other were doing, Nora and Jake slowly get back into their rhythm and make up for lost time. It starts off as 'just friends' but when can soul mates really be 'just friends'? they can't, so this in turn creates for the future events that come to pass in the book.
Ellie Grace is a wonderful writer, with clear descriptions, a developed plot and developed characters. The story-although short-was all there and it was a story that needed to be told from day one. As a debut novel by Ellie Grace, she has done extremely well and I was very impressed. I looked over a few of the spelling mistakes or missing words, but I put that down to not having an editor just yet. Aside from that, Ellie wrote a wonderful story.
This Time Around is about second chances. Realising who you are, helping others realise their true potential. A story of love, trust and friendship. I'm leaving this a short review, as it'll just be a lot of gushing otherwise. But This Time Around is a very cute summer read that you must give a go. If you're a fan of NA and love sexy males (like Jake) and enjoy reading about characters finding themselves and giving each other second chances, then pick this book up. It's a delightful little read, that will most certainly leave you wanting more. Lucky for us! There will be a book 2 :) so I eagerly anticipate that one. Book 2 moves on from Nora and Jake so there is no need to worry about a cliffhanger, they have their HEA.
This book is NA, and due to sexual situations (which are SUPER hot!) and language it is recommended for 17+ ages.
Note: I received an ARC copy of this from the author in exchange for an honest review.
July 25, 2013
This Time Around is a very sweet love story and beautifully told.
Jake and Nora were high school sweethearts but days before Nora was to leave to go away to college, everything changed. Four years later, Nora is returning to home town to help out her best friend plan her wedding. Nora never returned home during her college years because there were too many memories and she just wanted to move on.
“He’d abandoned me. It was as simple as that. He made me fall in love with him and then he’d broken me. I wasn’t the same after that.”
Jake just received his degree in architecture and was working with his dad until he found a job. He knew that Nora would be coming back in town for their friend’s wedding. He has never been able to get over how things ended between them but he was hoping that they could at least be friends again.
When these two run into each other at the bar – it’s obvious that neither one has been able to move past their feelings for one another. Nora may fight it but she knows that Jake has always had a special place in her heart and no-one will be able take his place. Jake let Nora get away the first time – he won’t make the same mistake this time around.
“When Nora was around it was impossible to notice anyone but her.”
The chemistry between these two is so hot – I am surprised my kindle didn’t catch fire. Jake and Nora have such a heated passion for one another that they completely forget about their surroundings when in each other presence. And speaking of heat – WOW!!! Hot, sweaty, sexy, steamy sex – hot damn! And Jake – *SWOON* – he is so sensitive and loves to show Nora how much she means to him. I want Jake – no I need Jake!!!
“Baby, I was broken. I was completely shattered! There was not a single day that went by that I didn’t think of you. I’ve been yours since the day we met…yours and only yours. You own me, Nora.”
Beautiful love story – great summer read!
***VISIT WWW.LOVENBOOKS.COM FOR MORE REVIEWS***
Jake and Nora were high school sweethearts but days before Nora was to leave to go away to college, everything changed. Four years later, Nora is returning to home town to help out her best friend plan her wedding. Nora never returned home during her college years because there were too many memories and she just wanted to move on.
“He’d abandoned me. It was as simple as that. He made me fall in love with him and then he’d broken me. I wasn’t the same after that.”
Jake just received his degree in architecture and was working with his dad until he found a job. He knew that Nora would be coming back in town for their friend’s wedding. He has never been able to get over how things ended between them but he was hoping that they could at least be friends again.
When these two run into each other at the bar – it’s obvious that neither one has been able to move past their feelings for one another. Nora may fight it but she knows that Jake has always had a special place in her heart and no-one will be able take his place. Jake let Nora get away the first time – he won’t make the same mistake this time around.
“When Nora was around it was impossible to notice anyone but her.”
The chemistry between these two is so hot – I am surprised my kindle didn’t catch fire. Jake and Nora have such a heated passion for one another that they completely forget about their surroundings when in each other presence. And speaking of heat – WOW!!! Hot, sweaty, sexy, steamy sex – hot damn! And Jake – *SWOON* – he is so sensitive and loves to show Nora how much she means to him. I want Jake – no I need Jake!!!
“Baby, I was broken. I was completely shattered! There was not a single day that went by that I didn’t think of you. I’ve been yours since the day we met…yours and only yours. You own me, Nora.”
Beautiful love story – great summer read!
***VISIT WWW.LOVENBOOKS.COM FOR MORE REVIEWS***
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