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Now #1
Now and Then
Now Emmaline Carson is a sharp, settled graphic designer who loves painting, cooking and girls’ night out with her older sister Layla. But then – in the years before she went to art school in Paris – she was a shy, awkward teenager with frizzy hair, a flat chest and a massive crush on the boy across the street, Cole Marlowe. Too bad her incredibly hot neighbor only had eyes for Layla.
Cole is now a confident, laid-back attorney who’s even hotter than he used to be. He’s planning to stay single while working his way up the corporate ladder – until he’s knocked off course by a chance run-in with Emma.
Everything is different between Cole and Emma now. He finally sees her in a way she only dreamed of, and their hot chemistry is fueled by a growing friendship. But Emma’s deception of her sister – who wants Cole for herself – and the secret Cole’s been keeping for more than a decade threaten to tear apart what’s only just begun. Because sometimes the only thing standing in the way of now is then.
Cole is now a confident, laid-back attorney who’s even hotter than he used to be. He’s planning to stay single while working his way up the corporate ladder – until he’s knocked off course by a chance run-in with Emma.
Everything is different between Cole and Emma now. He finally sees her in a way she only dreamed of, and their hot chemistry is fueled by a growing friendship. But Emma’s deception of her sister – who wants Cole for herself – and the secret Cole’s been keeping for more than a decade threaten to tear apart what’s only just begun. Because sometimes the only thing standing in the way of now is then.
231 pages, Kindle Edition
First published August 4, 2013
651 people are currently reading
5547 people want to read
About the author
Brenda Rothert
90 books2,264 followersBrenda Rothert is the author of more than thirty Contemporary Romance novels. You can learn more about her books at her website, www.brendarothert.com, which features teasers, excerpts and trailers for her books. Follow her here:
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 491 reviews
November 5, 2013
I love the whole childhood crush turned to lover trope. Gets me every time. And Now and Then was no exception.
Brenda Rothert is a new to me author, but is now someone that is going straight to my auto-buy list.
Emmaline Carson was always the shy and awkawrd sister. How could she ever compare with her perfect, confident, and sexy sister Layla. So even though it's not a shock to her when the object of her teenage crush seems more interested in Layla, it's no less devastating.
But that was then. Now Emmaline is settling in good life and a job as a graphic designer, even though she'd much rather spent her time painting. She's no longer the shy and awkward teenager she once was. It was great to get a heroine that wasn't still the mousy and shy virgin. Emmaline was a woman that was confident in her own way, and she was not a stranger to men. Her time studying abroad in Paris changed her. But what happens when a chance run in with the crush from her childhood turns into something a little more?
Cole Marlowe is not a successful attorney. But his high school dating years and childhood were not quite what Emma always thought them to be. Although the last thing on Cole's mind is a relationship during his climb up the corporate latter, he can't seem to keep his mind off Emma.
Now things are different. Now Emma is receiving the type of attention she always dreamed of from Cole. There's just one problem; she's still convinced that she will lose his interest to Layla.
Layla
was a bitch. A huge one! Everything that came out of her mouth made me want to beat her with my kindle. Usually when I read about a character like this, the last thing I'd want to do is read a book with her as a heroine. But here's the shocker, I cannot wait to read about her and see her fall head over platform heels. The fact that Brenda Rothert managed to do this is no small feat.I really loved the way that the past and present were interwoven flawlessly in the story. It added a little something to the book, the writing style was one of my favorite things about it.
So what kept this from being a 5 star read for me? Unfortunately Emma drove me up the wall with her behavior and thought process throughout the book. Her constant doubting of Cole, of herself, of Cole's feelings grated with me. It took her almost until the very end to finally get her shit together. Cole was just wonderful. His treatment of Emma made his feelings so glaringly obvious. And the fact that Emma would chose the word of her sister over his almost made me lose it.
All that aside, this was still a very solid 4 star read, and I did enjoy it. I still can't believe how much I'm looking forward to Layla's story. Hope the hero really gives her a run for her money. The bitch deserves it. LOL!!
**ARC courtesy of author in exchange for an honest review**
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June 7, 2014
1 1/2 stars then and now.
Where do I start with this book?
First off I'd like to say I was terribly mislead once again by reading the reviews. I'm highly unsure how everyone else loved this book and I'm left being the black sheep.
This book wasn't super boring or have spelling errors, so why the low rating?
Mother effing Emma!
I despise her so much I'd likely punch a person in the face simply because her name was...Emma.
She was winey and repetitive, she often flip-flopped so hard I suffered from whiplash.
She was in love with a neighbor boy.
He was too old for her. Then.
Ten years later and they meet again.
...Too bad Emma is still stuck with her 14 year old brain.
I think the only reason I added a half star was because of her childhood friend Dani, her words of wisdom really stuck close to what I felt.
..."Em, its not sharing. That happened like ten years ago. That's forever. Sharing would be if you did one night and she did him the next."
..."what's your problem, Emma? He's crazy about you, you're crazy about him...what more do you want?"...
Thank you, Dani. And get over it, Emma!
I tried to feel bad for Cole, the long lost crush but in the end I was like, "What an idiot."
He put up with her shit for to long, but like Dani, he also had moments of wisdom.
..."All this 'history' stuff is bullshit, and you know it."
So ten years ago he took her sister to prom. AAAAAaaand?
..."I have no interest in her."
>>>Here is the whole book in Emma's eyes.<<<
"But you used to."
"That was forever ago, Em. I think we should put this whole thing to rest"...
If this was the only time this conversation took place, I could have dealt. But no.
"You like having me in your bed?"
"Yes, very much.
And three pages from this rare moment of normalcy, we go back to the same inane dribble from before.
"Are we...in a relationship?" she asked hesitantly.
"I hope so"...
"I know, but it's...Complicated with Layla"...
I'll end my rant on a good note.
One from my favorite character, Dani.
..."I think you're hung up on something stupid. Sorry if that's mean, but I do."
Would I recommend this book? Absolutely not. Not because of the writers ability, just her particular character in this book.
Where do I start with this book?
First off I'd like to say I was terribly mislead once again by reading the reviews. I'm highly unsure how everyone else loved this book and I'm left being the black sheep.
This book wasn't super boring or have spelling errors, so why the low rating?
Mother effing Emma!
I despise her so much I'd likely punch a person in the face simply because her name was...Emma.
She was winey and repetitive, she often flip-flopped so hard I suffered from whiplash.
She was in love with a neighbor boy.
He was too old for her. Then.
Ten years later and they meet again.
...Too bad Emma is still stuck with her 14 year old brain.
I think the only reason I added a half star was because of her childhood friend Dani, her words of wisdom really stuck close to what I felt.
..."Em, its not sharing. That happened like ten years ago. That's forever. Sharing would be if you did one night and she did him the next."
..."what's your problem, Emma? He's crazy about you, you're crazy about him...what more do you want?"...
Thank you, Dani. And get over it, Emma!
I tried to feel bad for Cole, the long lost crush but in the end I was like, "What an idiot."
He put up with her shit for to long, but like Dani, he also had moments of wisdom.
..."All this 'history' stuff is bullshit, and you know it."
So ten years ago he took her sister to prom. AAAAAaaand?
..."I have no interest in her."
>>>Here is the whole book in Emma's eyes.<<<
"But you used to."
"That was forever ago, Em. I think we should put this whole thing to rest"...
If this was the only time this conversation took place, I could have dealt. But no.
"You like having me in your bed?"
"Yes, very much.
And three pages from this rare moment of normalcy, we go back to the same inane dribble from before.
"Are we...in a relationship?" she asked hesitantly.
"I hope so"...
"I know, but it's...Complicated with Layla"...
I'll end my rant on a good note.
One from my favorite character, Dani.
..."I think you're hung up on something stupid. Sorry if that's mean, but I do."
Would I recommend this book? Absolutely not. Not because of the writers ability, just her particular character in this book.
November 25, 2013
So…this book rocked! I stared it one night before bed and before I knew it, I was done and it was past 3am. I just couldn’t put it down.
I’m a huge sucker for childhood crush or high school sweetheart stories, so this book appealed right away. And I wasn’t the least bit disappointed with it.
From page 1, I liked Emma. Even though she kept calling herself flighty, I didn’t see that in her. Yes, she could lose herself in her painting, but I just saw that as losing track of time while doing something you love (like me and reading).
I have to say that like Emma, I was completely smitten with Cole. He was such a good guy. He never wavered in what he wanted. Once they ran into each other in the coffee shop, he couldn’t stop thinking about her…and he admitted that. He went after what he wanted immediately. He didn’t play games. He was upfront with Emma that he wanted her. He never wavered in that. Emma was the one with doubts and while I found her doubts a little irritating at times, they ended up being well founded.
And that brings me to Layla. I really didn’t like her. From the first time she showed up in the book, I hated her. And this wasn’t a case of horrible best friend. No, Emma had the misfourtine of having Layla for a sister. And after seeing how Layla treated Emma in the past…I would have been scared to tell her I fell in love with and was dating the guy she was plotting to marry. Emma’s fears were valid because when Layla found out…let’s just say it wasn’t pretty.
I’ll definitely read the next book, but I’ll admit that I’m not looking forward to a full book of Layla. However, you can’t go wrong with this book (and this author) so go read it!
I’m a huge sucker for childhood crush or high school sweetheart stories, so this book appealed right away. And I wasn’t the least bit disappointed with it.
From page 1, I liked Emma. Even though she kept calling herself flighty, I didn’t see that in her. Yes, she could lose herself in her painting, but I just saw that as losing track of time while doing something you love (like me and reading).
I have to say that like Emma, I was completely smitten with Cole. He was such a good guy. He never wavered in what he wanted. Once they ran into each other in the coffee shop, he couldn’t stop thinking about her…and he admitted that. He went after what he wanted immediately. He didn’t play games. He was upfront with Emma that he wanted her. He never wavered in that. Emma was the one with doubts and while I found her doubts a little irritating at times, they ended up being well founded.
And that brings me to Layla. I really didn’t like her. From the first time she showed up in the book, I hated her. And this wasn’t a case of horrible best friend. No, Emma had the misfourtine of having Layla for a sister. And after seeing how Layla treated Emma in the past…I would have been scared to tell her I fell in love with and was dating the guy she was plotting to marry. Emma’s fears were valid because when Layla found out…let’s just say it wasn’t pretty.
I’ll definitely read the next book, but I’ll admit that I’m not looking forward to a full book of Layla. However, you can’t go wrong with this book (and this author) so go read it!
August 12, 2016
Here, Emma. These GIFs are all for you. You deserve them.
My thoughts throughout the book:
“What the hell?”
“Emma, get over the freaking past already.”
“UGH EMMA.”
“What on Earth?”
"Freaking Emma."
“Seriously, Emma? Seriously.”
“She did not just say that.”
“Thought you said you’d spent years waiting for him! Now would you please just stop being so insecure? Mother of God.........”
“Emma, why are you so bloody stupid?”
___________________________________
It was 10 years ago. Emma was such a ninny it pissed me off so much. Hell na.
My thoughts throughout the book:
“What the hell?”
“Emma, get over the freaking past already.”
“UGH EMMA.”
“What on Earth?”
"Freaking Emma."
“Seriously, Emma? Seriously.”
“She did not just say that.”
“Thought you said you’d spent years waiting for him! Now would you please just stop being so insecure? Mother of God.........”
“Emma, why are you so bloody stupid?”
___________________________________
“Layla had slept with him.”
"He'd slept with Layla."
"It's not just that, it's also the history."
"You know you have nothing to worry about, right? I have no interest in her." "But you used to."
It was 10 years ago. Emma was such a ninny it pissed me off so much. Hell na.
November 30, 2025
Now and Then is boring. That is my first impression of this book. I was disappointed. The book is quite long and... I just feel I want to skip a whole lot of chapters just trying to finish it.
2 stars
2 stars
September 30, 2013
COPY PROVIDED BY AUTHOR FOR HONEST REVIEW
Now and Then by Brenda Rothert is a compelling story of two childhood friends reunited who became lovers. As with any love story, misunderstanding, fear of rejection, lies, and sibling rivalry stands in their way of happiness.
When Emma Carson was a shy naive and awkward teenager, she had a major crush on the older boy next door, Cole Marlowe. Emma was simply infatuated and longed for the attention of Cole but was always overshadowed by her older beautiful spunky sister, Layla. Fast forward to the present, Emma always felt she couldn't compete with her sister since Layla was beautiful, smart, a lawyer and had men always fawning over her. When Emma accidentally bumps into Cole, memories and feelings of her teenage crush emerges. But this time around, Cole finally takes notice of Emma. Cole is instantly attracted to Emma and vice-versa. He sets his sights on Emma and pursues a relationship with her. Emma's once unrequited love becomes a reality when Cole and her makes a deep connection.
"You bring light into my life," he said. "I can't believe the most beautiful, smart, compassionate girl in the world lived across the street from me when I was younger and I was too blind to see it. I'm sorry."
Emma secretly sees Cole behind her sister's back. She fears what would Layla think since she knows Layla is still interested in Cole. Mostly Emma lets the past history of Layla and Cole dictate her future romance with him. Her insecurities simply causes the rift and affects her relationship with Cole. So when Layla discovers her sister was lying to her for months, a cat-fight ensues between the two sisters. Hurtful words were exchanged.
Personally, I know many readers find Layla simply as the mean girl or the manipulative bitch but I don't think Layla is all to blame. Emma could have avoided unnecessary sibling rivalry if she was simply straightforward with her sister from the beginning. Yes, I understand that Emma was afraid to hurt Layla's feelings or how she would react but to simply continue going behind her back and make Layla think she has a chance with Cole is also just as hurtful and mean. I'm not saying Layla is innocent but I can understand her since every sibling goes through a time of being jealous and selfish with one another.
Overall, I enjoyed reading Now and Then. I was happy that the sisters were able to work things out and try understand each other from their perspective. It was sweet to see a girl's teenage crush finally coming to a reality. I am thankful that this book had no cliffhanger.
I am looking forward to reading the next book, Now and Again to see what's in store for Layla. Behind the tough confident facade Layla puts on, I know deep down she just a vulnerable girl looking for love and I hope she finds it in the next book.
Brenda Rothert
Now and Then by Brenda Rothert is a compelling story of two childhood friends reunited who became lovers. As with any love story, misunderstanding, fear of rejection, lies, and sibling rivalry stands in their way of happiness.
When Emma Carson was a shy naive and awkward teenager, she had a major crush on the older boy next door, Cole Marlowe. Emma was simply infatuated and longed for the attention of Cole but was always overshadowed by her older beautiful spunky sister, Layla. Fast forward to the present, Emma always felt she couldn't compete with her sister since Layla was beautiful, smart, a lawyer and had men always fawning over her. When Emma accidentally bumps into Cole, memories and feelings of her teenage crush emerges. But this time around, Cole finally takes notice of Emma. Cole is instantly attracted to Emma and vice-versa. He sets his sights on Emma and pursues a relationship with her. Emma's once unrequited love becomes a reality when Cole and her makes a deep connection.
"You bring light into my life," he said. "I can't believe the most beautiful, smart, compassionate girl in the world lived across the street from me when I was younger and I was too blind to see it. I'm sorry."
Emma secretly sees Cole behind her sister's back. She fears what would Layla think since she knows Layla is still interested in Cole. Mostly Emma lets the past history of Layla and Cole dictate her future romance with him. Her insecurities simply causes the rift and affects her relationship with Cole. So when Layla discovers her sister was lying to her for months, a cat-fight ensues between the two sisters. Hurtful words were exchanged.
Personally, I know many readers find Layla simply as the mean girl or the manipulative bitch but I don't think Layla is all to blame. Emma could have avoided unnecessary sibling rivalry if she was simply straightforward with her sister from the beginning. Yes, I understand that Emma was afraid to hurt Layla's feelings or how she would react but to simply continue going behind her back and make Layla think she has a chance with Cole is also just as hurtful and mean. I'm not saying Layla is innocent but I can understand her since every sibling goes through a time of being jealous and selfish with one another.
Overall, I enjoyed reading Now and Then. I was happy that the sisters were able to work things out and try understand each other from their perspective. It was sweet to see a girl's teenage crush finally coming to a reality. I am thankful that this book had no cliffhanger.
I am looking forward to reading the next book, Now and Again to see what's in store for Layla. Behind the tough confident facade Layla puts on, I know deep down she just a vulnerable girl looking for love and I hope she finds it in the next book.
Brenda Rothert
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January 4, 2014FREE today on Amazon US (1/3/2014).
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August 7, 2013
Now and Then (Now #1) by Brenda Rothert
Rated: 4-4.5 Stars
Genre: New Adult
Purchase Now and Then (Now Series)
NO CLIFFHANGER
"Maybe I'm not apologizing to the woman standing in front of me today, but to the girl I disappointed. I'll never disappoint you again, Em, I promise."
This book was such a surprise! I loved the blurb, but had never heard of the author so I took a chance and one-clicked. Boy am I happy I did! Now and Then was such an amazing book filled with love, angst, jealousy, family secrets and a playboy turned perfect book boyfriend. It almost felt like Cinderella with the mean sister, Layla, getting everything and Emma always hiding in her shadow. LOVE, LOVE, LOVE this book!
I'm a sucker for childhood friends becoming lovers. That's how this story starts out. Emma is 2 years younger than her beautiful, popular sister and they are both in love with their 15 year old neighbor Cole. He's popular, sweet and attractive, and he doesn't even know Emma exists. But let's be honest, no 15 year old boy would really notice a 12 year old girl that way. So her sister Layla goes after him, and Cole who uses girls to fill the void in his family issues has no problem dating her a couple times. Layla was mean and cruel at times to Emma. She knew Emma liked Cole so when she got home from Prom with Cole she made sure to rub in all the details.
Their parents and Cole's parents were best friends and always hoped Layla and Cole would marry one day. So when they all go their separate ways to college and grow up it was a complete surprise to Cole that he wanted Emma after running into her one morning years later. Cole saw her as a beautiful, confident, sweet and sexy woman, not the shy girl he knew back in high school. Emma was still hopelessly infatuated with Cole and didn't believe he actually wanted her and not her sister.
Cole has a successful career at a law firm, a nice house, nice car, any woman he wants, but he has secrets and no real relationship. He thought that was enough, until Emma stumbled into his life...
Emma feels like she is betraying Layla by dating Cole since Layla has made it clear she wants Cole. "And Layla always gets what she wants." Emma and Cole have a secret relationship that Cole is fighting to make public. He doesn't want to hide their relationship and gets frustrated with Emma's guilt over hurting Layla.
I loved this book so much. You have the villain, Layla, whom you will love to hate. The geek turned beauty who wants to please her family instead of herself for fear of hurting her mean sister. The amazingly Hott guy who grew up to become a successful lawyer in spite of his family's big secret. And an extremely sweet relationship that was so unexpected and heartwarming that I LITERALLY couldn't put this book down!
"You bring light into my life," he said. "I can't believe the most beautiful, smart, compassionate girl in the world lived across the street from me when I was younger and I was too blind to see it. I'm sorry."
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Jenee's Book Blog
Rated: 4-4.5 Stars
Genre: New Adult
Purchase Now and Then (Now Series)
NO CLIFFHANGER
"Maybe I'm not apologizing to the woman standing in front of me today, but to the girl I disappointed. I'll never disappoint you again, Em, I promise."
This book was such a surprise! I loved the blurb, but had never heard of the author so I took a chance and one-clicked. Boy am I happy I did! Now and Then was such an amazing book filled with love, angst, jealousy, family secrets and a playboy turned perfect book boyfriend. It almost felt like Cinderella with the mean sister, Layla, getting everything and Emma always hiding in her shadow. LOVE, LOVE, LOVE this book!
I'm a sucker for childhood friends becoming lovers. That's how this story starts out. Emma is 2 years younger than her beautiful, popular sister and they are both in love with their 15 year old neighbor Cole. He's popular, sweet and attractive, and he doesn't even know Emma exists. But let's be honest, no 15 year old boy would really notice a 12 year old girl that way. So her sister Layla goes after him, and Cole who uses girls to fill the void in his family issues has no problem dating her a couple times. Layla was mean and cruel at times to Emma. She knew Emma liked Cole so when she got home from Prom with Cole she made sure to rub in all the details.
"His parents might not be here to celebrate this moment with him, but she would. And if not her, another girl. It didn't really matter who it was, he just needed someone to want him tonight."
"A bitch is a bitch. I think that's inscribed in hieroglyphics on some pyramid somewhere. And hotness does not make up for it."
Their parents and Cole's parents were best friends and always hoped Layla and Cole would marry one day. So when they all go their separate ways to college and grow up it was a complete surprise to Cole that he wanted Emma after running into her one morning years later. Cole saw her as a beautiful, confident, sweet and sexy woman, not the shy girl he knew back in high school. Emma was still hopelessly infatuated with Cole and didn't believe he actually wanted her and not her sister.
Cole has a successful career at a law firm, a nice house, nice car, any woman he wants, but he has secrets and no real relationship. He thought that was enough, until Emma stumbled into his life...
"Fuck me. I'm in trouble, he thought as he looked at her. God, he wanted to be responsible for that light flush on her ivory cheeks."
Emma feels like she is betraying Layla by dating Cole since Layla has made it clear she wants Cole. "And Layla always gets what she wants." Emma and Cole have a secret relationship that Cole is fighting to make public. He doesn't want to hide their relationship and gets frustrated with Emma's guilt over hurting Layla.
"He sure as hell didn't want her seeing anyone else, and he couldn't play it cool anymore."
I loved this book so much. You have the villain, Layla, whom you will love to hate. The geek turned beauty who wants to please her family instead of herself for fear of hurting her mean sister. The amazingly Hott guy who grew up to become a successful lawyer in spite of his family's big secret. And an extremely sweet relationship that was so unexpected and heartwarming that I LITERALLY couldn't put this book down!
"You bring light into my life," he said. "I can't believe the most beautiful, smart, compassionate girl in the world lived across the street from me when I was younger and I was too blind to see it. I'm sorry."
Visit my Blog for more awesome reviews and tons of Signed Giveaways!
Jenee's Book Blog
October 16, 2013
Emma has been in her sister's shadow her whole life. Having always felt like she was in second place, Emma is finally in a place in her life that she is happy with – she has a job that she loves, good friends, and great family. What more could she ask for? After a chance run in with her high school crush, Emma's feelings of awkwardness and longing all come rushing back. Until Cole makes it clear that he no longer sees her as the young girl she used to be.
I really like Emma. I can completely relate to her, having two older sisters of my own who were seemingly perfect. Like Emma and Layla, I never felt I could live up to them and their accomplishments. Emma eventually learned she had to find her own place in the world, and once she did she blossomed into a strong, independent woman. Her fear of Layla not supporting her decisions was hard to watch, especially because of how close they were now that they were grown up. Like them, my sisters and I are closer now that we are older, and I like to think they would supportive of me and would want to see me happy, no matter what. To come right out and say it, Layla was a bitch. Sure she had her moments, but I hated her and the way she treated Emma.
Told in the present with bits of the past thrown in, Now and Then is a sweet, sexy story. The flashbacks were a great addition to the story, as they showed the way the characters' past experiences molded them into who they are in the present. Throw in some angst and hair pulling catfights, and it was a great story. I received a free copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
I really like Emma. I can completely relate to her, having two older sisters of my own who were seemingly perfect. Like Emma and Layla, I never felt I could live up to them and their accomplishments. Emma eventually learned she had to find her own place in the world, and once she did she blossomed into a strong, independent woman. Her fear of Layla not supporting her decisions was hard to watch, especially because of how close they were now that they were grown up. Like them, my sisters and I are closer now that we are older, and I like to think they would supportive of me and would want to see me happy, no matter what. To come right out and say it, Layla was a bitch. Sure she had her moments, but I hated her and the way she treated Emma.
Told in the present with bits of the past thrown in, Now and Then is a sweet, sexy story. The flashbacks were a great addition to the story, as they showed the way the characters' past experiences molded them into who they are in the present. Throw in some angst and hair pulling catfights, and it was a great story. I received a free copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
October 17, 2013
Back then Emmalina Carson was the shy teenager who had a big crush on her neighbor Cole Marlowe, he was 3 years older than her, and seemed more interested in her older sister Layla. Fast forward to now Emma, and Cole bump into in a coffee shop Cole, for Emma all the feelings she had for Cole come flooding back, and for Cole, he now sees Emma in a new light she is so not that young awkward shy neighbor that he used to know. However, there is a problem, and would be Emma’s sister Layla who has history will Cole and want him for herself.
Cole Marlow hadn’t crossed her mind in a while. But just one look in to those blue gray eyes and she was weak in the knees again.
Layla wasn’t the Carson sister who would be on his mind all afternoon.
Emma is independent, confident, friendly, and working as a graphic designer, but painting is her real passion. I like Emma, but she was frustrating at times, and I really wanted to scream at her because of some of decision and choices she made. She is too worried about upsetting Layla she kept on putting Layla happiness before her own. Some things could have been avoided if Emma just said what she was thinking.
If she allowed herself to dip her toe into the water with Cole, she knew she would find herself struggling for air soon after. His effect on her had been the same for 12 years; he panties practically fell to the ground when he walked in the room.
Cole is good-looking, confident, caring and is working as a lawyer who has his own family secret. Cole wants to be with Emma wants to be more than friends; he doesn’t care what his or her family thinks. I loved Cole, I loved how he never gives up, he is determined to show Emma that they should be together, even when Emma tries to push him away. I could feel his frustration at times with Emma
“I can't fucking stay away from you…… You’re all I think about, Em By the time I get through with you, you won’t want to see anyone else”~ Cole
“I want you. Not just sex. I only want you, and not just tonight. Be with me” ~Cole,
I loved chemistry and the passion between Emma and Cole, they were really sweet together, the attraction was instant, but I liked how the friendship they have slowly developed into more. They had their ups and down due to some misunderstandings, lack of communication, and family drama and I felt sorry for them at times.
“I can’t believe the most beautiful, smart, compassionate girl in the world lived across the street from me when I was younger and I was too blind to see it” ~ Cole
Emma was breathless when she pulled away, looking up at him in a daze. She knew it wasn’t her high school crush, but the man standing before her now, who was affecting her so deeply.
I enjoyed the storyline it was heart warming with some angst. It jumps between Now (the present) and Then (the past) which works really well, I felt I was really able to get to know Emma ad Cole and connect with their emotions.
Secondary charters like Dani and Emma and Cole’s parents were great, and I liked them a lot, but as for Layla, I wasn’t really a fan didn’t like the games she was playing, and the word bitch came to mind. She somewhat redeemed herself by the end but only slightly. But I have to admit their sibling rivalry did make me smile. Loved the Christmas Eve scene that made me really laugh, and so reminded me of an episode between my two sisters.
Friends tell you what you want to here, …..Real friends tell you what you need to hear ~Dani
When you girls get ready to settle down, I want you to remember how important it is that you choose a man who will be your partner in every way” ~ Em’s mum
Overall this was a fun sweet sexy read that I didn’t want to put down. I had not read any of Brenda Rothert books before, and I’m really impressed. I liked the writing style. I thought the story flowed well and that he created characters that I warmed to. There was no cliffhanger ending, but also no epilogue, I didn’t mind so much as I normally would because everything was tied up, and I was happy also I think we will get more of Emma and Cole in the next book Now and Again which is Layla's story, and if I’m honest even though I wasn’t a fan of Layla I’m looking forward to reading.
Cole Marlow hadn’t crossed her mind in a while. But just one look in to those blue gray eyes and she was weak in the knees again.
Layla wasn’t the Carson sister who would be on his mind all afternoon.
Emma is independent, confident, friendly, and working as a graphic designer, but painting is her real passion. I like Emma, but she was frustrating at times, and I really wanted to scream at her because of some of decision and choices she made. She is too worried about upsetting Layla she kept on putting Layla happiness before her own. Some things could have been avoided if Emma just said what she was thinking.
If she allowed herself to dip her toe into the water with Cole, she knew she would find herself struggling for air soon after. His effect on her had been the same for 12 years; he panties practically fell to the ground when he walked in the room.
Cole is good-looking, confident, caring and is working as a lawyer who has his own family secret. Cole wants to be with Emma wants to be more than friends; he doesn’t care what his or her family thinks. I loved Cole, I loved how he never gives up, he is determined to show Emma that they should be together, even when Emma tries to push him away. I could feel his frustration at times with Emma
“I can't fucking stay away from you…… You’re all I think about, Em By the time I get through with you, you won’t want to see anyone else”~ Cole
“I want you. Not just sex. I only want you, and not just tonight. Be with me” ~Cole,
I loved chemistry and the passion between Emma and Cole, they were really sweet together, the attraction was instant, but I liked how the friendship they have slowly developed into more. They had their ups and down due to some misunderstandings, lack of communication, and family drama and I felt sorry for them at times.
“I can’t believe the most beautiful, smart, compassionate girl in the world lived across the street from me when I was younger and I was too blind to see it” ~ Cole
Emma was breathless when she pulled away, looking up at him in a daze. She knew it wasn’t her high school crush, but the man standing before her now, who was affecting her so deeply.
I enjoyed the storyline it was heart warming with some angst. It jumps between Now (the present) and Then (the past) which works really well, I felt I was really able to get to know Emma ad Cole and connect with their emotions.
Secondary charters like Dani and Emma and Cole’s parents were great, and I liked them a lot, but as for Layla, I wasn’t really a fan didn’t like the games she was playing, and the word bitch came to mind. She somewhat redeemed herself by the end but only slightly. But I have to admit their sibling rivalry did make me smile. Loved the Christmas Eve scene that made me really laugh, and so reminded me of an episode between my two sisters.
Friends tell you what you want to here, …..Real friends tell you what you need to hear ~Dani
When you girls get ready to settle down, I want you to remember how important it is that you choose a man who will be your partner in every way” ~ Em’s mum
Overall this was a fun sweet sexy read that I didn’t want to put down. I had not read any of Brenda Rothert books before, and I’m really impressed. I liked the writing style. I thought the story flowed well and that he created characters that I warmed to. There was no cliffhanger ending, but also no epilogue, I didn’t mind so much as I normally would because everything was tied up, and I was happy also I think we will get more of Emma and Cole in the next book Now and Again which is Layla's story, and if I’m honest even though I wasn’t a fan of Layla I’m looking forward to reading.
May 21, 2018
The book was a pretty good read of a girl who used to have a crush on a boy back when she was 12 and he was 15, but her older sister liked him and they dated and went to his senior prom together. Years later she is back home from being away in Paris where lived as an artist. There were a few things about this story that I didn't like:
I'm not sure if I will read the 2nd or 3rd book. I think Emma and Cole weren't great characters. She seemed a bit flaky and so insecure and he seemed a bit wimpy because he let her dictate the relationship - . I guess I like my heroes to be alpha males and even if they are a bit demanding and asshole-y that is better than wimpy (at least to me).
I'm not sure if I will read the 2nd or 3rd book. I think Emma and Cole weren't great characters. She seemed a bit flaky and so insecure and he seemed a bit wimpy because he let her dictate the relationship - . I guess I like my heroes to be alpha males and even if they are a bit demanding and asshole-y that is better than wimpy (at least to me).
December 17, 2013
Growing up Emmaline Carson always had a crush on neighbor Cole Marlowe. Cole was three years older and more interested in her sister Layla at the time, but that torch always burned brightly for her secret crush. It didn't help that Emma was the epitome of gawky teenager, but the years have been kind and the confidence she didn't have in her teen years has blossomed with her time studying in Paris.
Now Emma is an artist and graphic designer who mistakenly bumps into Cole years later. Cole is an attorney who happens to work close to her office and now he has a reason to visit his family who still live across the street from Emma. Although Cole knows he should not start up something with Emma, for if it didn't work it would cause awkwardness with the families but he has never met a woman who brings out not only the protective instinct but has killed his interest in other women.
Emma believes that Layla has first claim on Cole. After all they went to Prom together years ago and now that Cole is back in their families life she has made her intentions known that she wants Cole as a future husband prospect. Having a turbulent relationship growing up, Emma keeps her feelings and secret dating with Cole quiet but Cole wants to announce to everyone that he is with the woman who seems oblivious of her own worth.
This was pretty good, I thought Layla was a spoiled brat who even at the end I did not like. Emma need to wake up a little but I think having grown up in her sisters shadow she easily fell into that role. However I never quite understood why her mother didn't intervene a bit. Cole was a great character who you see grow to being in lust to love with Emma. If you like second chance/ugly duckling stories this is a gem.
Now Emma is an artist and graphic designer who mistakenly bumps into Cole years later. Cole is an attorney who happens to work close to her office and now he has a reason to visit his family who still live across the street from Emma. Although Cole knows he should not start up something with Emma, for if it didn't work it would cause awkwardness with the families but he has never met a woman who brings out not only the protective instinct but has killed his interest in other women.
Emma believes that Layla has first claim on Cole. After all they went to Prom together years ago and now that Cole is back in their families life she has made her intentions known that she wants Cole as a future husband prospect. Having a turbulent relationship growing up, Emma keeps her feelings and secret dating with Cole quiet but Cole wants to announce to everyone that he is with the woman who seems oblivious of her own worth.
This was pretty good, I thought Layla was a spoiled brat who even at the end I did not like. Emma need to wake up a little but I think having grown up in her sisters shadow she easily fell into that role. However I never quite understood why her mother didn't intervene a bit. Cole was a great character who you see grow to being in lust to love with Emma. If you like second chance/ugly duckling stories this is a gem.
July 21, 2013
Emma grew up harboring a crush on her neighbor Cole. But her sister, Layla, was more in Cole's league. They were the popular kids and Emma was not. Emma grew up feeling like she lived in Layla's shadow.
Fast forward several years and Emma is all grown up and living in Chicago. She has lived in Paris. Become an artist. She has come into her own. What will happen when she runs into Cole again?
"Sometime the only thing standing in the way of now is then."
This was a fun read. It was emotional and angsty at times. It was hard to put down at times. And I love that this is going to be a series. I can't wait for Layla's book b/c she was a real bitch at times.
Edited to add that I was fortunate to be a beta reader for this book.
Fast forward several years and Emma is all grown up and living in Chicago. She has lived in Paris. Become an artist. She has come into her own. What will happen when she runs into Cole again?
"Sometime the only thing standing in the way of now is then."
This was a fun read. It was emotional and angsty at times. It was hard to put down at times. And I love that this is going to be a series. I can't wait for Layla's book b/c she was a real bitch at times.
Edited to add that I was fortunate to be a beta reader for this book.
October 18, 2013
I can honestly say, I'm a fan of Brenda Rothert...she is one talented woman! Review to come with my tour date on 10/17.
**FULL REVIEW**
Then:
“He was the cutest boy she’d ever seen. When he’d smiled at her, she’d felt like her insides were melting. Maybe it was okay that her new neighbor was a boy after all.”
Now:
“As she left the coffee shop, she exhaled deeply, trying to calm her thudding heart. Cole Marlowe hadn’t crossed her mind in a while. But just one look into those blue-gray eyes and she was weak in the knees again. She thought of his broad smile and deep, warm voice the entire way up to her office.”
How do you know when a childhood crush is really just a future to your past? Emmaline Carson used to be a shy girl, with dark frizzy hair and a petite frame. Not athletic, but artistic; living in the shadow of her older sister, Layla. When the Marlowe’s moved in across the street, Emma wanted nothing more than to really be seen instead of passed over for her sister; who was smart, beautiful, athletic and very determined. Emma knew that she would never measure up to Layla and there was no way a boy three + years older than her would ever see her as more than just a “kid sister”…then she grew up.
After high school, Emma spread her wings with her art and moved to Paris. Living there for four years and just being free; free to be herself, no one to compete with or overshadowed by. Emma soared; she became the confident, beautiful woman everyone else already saw. Moving back home to once again be close to her family, Emma found a job that almost showcases her talent and continues to paint on her own time. Still ever the quiet, shy girl; Emma’s social life is pretty much non-existent. The bright side is that being close to her family, she can see them frequently for dinners and the relationship with her sister is stronger than it’s ever been. What she never counted on was running into the one person who could change everything…
“Having him see her, really see her in this most intimate way, had been worth all the years of waiting.”
Now, to break the news to their families…who had been rooting for Layla to end up with Cole all this time. Dealing with underlying insecurities and family secrets creates tension neither Cole or Emma was prepared for. It’s not every day, the woman wants to keep a relationship under wraps…usually she wants to shout it from the rooftops; especially when it’s with someone like Cole! Emma is too worried about how everyone else feels she neglects the most important person, herself.
“Em,” Cole said, his expression serious as he met her eyes, “You have to stop thinking that way. You’re not a teenager with a crush on an older boy anymore. You’re a beautiful, smart, incredible woman. I’m the lucky one, not you.”
Brenda Rothert has mixed the perfect amount of like, lust, love and crazy into this story. I am definitely a forever fan of hers. Now and Then is one of those books you can just keep on reading; like good movie that you could watch over and over again…even if you’ve already watched it once (or twice) that day. I thoroughly enjoy her writing style, her characters, and the little twists she adds that are all her own and original. Great read full of flawed characters, real issues, family ties, steamy love scenes, and proof that childhood dreams do really come true.
**4 Sometimes You Have to Just Do You Stars**
**FULL REVIEW**
Then:
“He was the cutest boy she’d ever seen. When he’d smiled at her, she’d felt like her insides were melting. Maybe it was okay that her new neighbor was a boy after all.”
Now:
“As she left the coffee shop, she exhaled deeply, trying to calm her thudding heart. Cole Marlowe hadn’t crossed her mind in a while. But just one look into those blue-gray eyes and she was weak in the knees again. She thought of his broad smile and deep, warm voice the entire way up to her office.”
How do you know when a childhood crush is really just a future to your past? Emmaline Carson used to be a shy girl, with dark frizzy hair and a petite frame. Not athletic, but artistic; living in the shadow of her older sister, Layla. When the Marlowe’s moved in across the street, Emma wanted nothing more than to really be seen instead of passed over for her sister; who was smart, beautiful, athletic and very determined. Emma knew that she would never measure up to Layla and there was no way a boy three + years older than her would ever see her as more than just a “kid sister”…then she grew up.
After high school, Emma spread her wings with her art and moved to Paris. Living there for four years and just being free; free to be herself, no one to compete with or overshadowed by. Emma soared; she became the confident, beautiful woman everyone else already saw. Moving back home to once again be close to her family, Emma found a job that almost showcases her talent and continues to paint on her own time. Still ever the quiet, shy girl; Emma’s social life is pretty much non-existent. The bright side is that being close to her family, she can see them frequently for dinners and the relationship with her sister is stronger than it’s ever been. What she never counted on was running into the one person who could change everything…
“Having him see her, really see her in this most intimate way, had been worth all the years of waiting.”
Now, to break the news to their families…who had been rooting for Layla to end up with Cole all this time. Dealing with underlying insecurities and family secrets creates tension neither Cole or Emma was prepared for. It’s not every day, the woman wants to keep a relationship under wraps…usually she wants to shout it from the rooftops; especially when it’s with someone like Cole! Emma is too worried about how everyone else feels she neglects the most important person, herself.
“Em,” Cole said, his expression serious as he met her eyes, “You have to stop thinking that way. You’re not a teenager with a crush on an older boy anymore. You’re a beautiful, smart, incredible woman. I’m the lucky one, not you.”
Brenda Rothert has mixed the perfect amount of like, lust, love and crazy into this story. I am definitely a forever fan of hers. Now and Then is one of those books you can just keep on reading; like good movie that you could watch over and over again…even if you’ve already watched it once (or twice) that day. I thoroughly enjoy her writing style, her characters, and the little twists she adds that are all her own and original. Great read full of flawed characters, real issues, family ties, steamy love scenes, and proof that childhood dreams do really come true.
**4 Sometimes You Have to Just Do You Stars**
August 8, 2013
Emma is a shy awkward teenager who has always been in her sister's shadow. She had a major crush on Cole Marlowe, a popular attractive boy that lives next door. She likes him but thinks he's out of her league and sadly he seemed more interested in her beautiful sister Layla..
Fast forward Several Years later, Cole saw Emma and was completely shock to find her beautiful, and confident, not the shy awkward girl he knew back in high school...
Okay... I'm a sucker for unrequited/childhood friends became lovers story, so I was really looking forward to this book! Love the cover, the plot sounded awesome but sadly it was just an okay book for me.
Well everything was good, story line was solid with some interesting characters to love with.. Our hero Cole is very loveable.. I like that he's straight forward and tells you what he really wants. He doesn't do guessing game like some other heroes. However, in my opinion, when it came to the heroine's character, there were some spots that could have been done better.
At first I feel for this woman.. I mean who doesn't? She was shy and always being overshadowed by her sister. The way she doubt herself and felt she couldn't compete with her sister was a little heartbreaking to read. I don't mind that she secretly sees Cole behind her sister's back.. but throughout the book she kept putting it off that I felt so frustrated. I get it.. you feel guilty.. but seriously half of the book was all about her saying Layla this.. Layla that.. I mean.. come on!!!
She makes some unnecessary decision that I just couldn't understand. If you feel bad about dating a guy that your sister likes then just don't do it.. AT ALL. But what she did was date Cole behind her sister's back and when Cole asked her that he doesn't want to hide their relationship anymore? Oh she'll make some dumb excuse that made me want to hurt her. LOL!
I'm all into the stories that the shy awkward sister gets the hot guy theme but this book just dragged on and on about her not wanting to hurt her mean bitch sister that I lost interest halfway of the book.
I wonder if Layla is getting her own story? Because to be honest even though she was a bitch here I like her more than Emma.
Overall.. I don't love nor hate this book.. it was an okay for me and despite my little rant I finished it.
I'm giving this 4 stars and that's mainly for Cole!
Fast forward Several Years later, Cole saw Emma and was completely shock to find her beautiful, and confident, not the shy awkward girl he knew back in high school...
Okay... I'm a sucker for unrequited/childhood friends became lovers story, so I was really looking forward to this book! Love the cover, the plot sounded awesome but sadly it was just an okay book for me.
Well everything was good, story line was solid with some interesting characters to love with.. Our hero Cole is very loveable.. I like that he's straight forward and tells you what he really wants. He doesn't do guessing game like some other heroes. However, in my opinion, when it came to the heroine's character, there were some spots that could have been done better.
At first I feel for this woman.. I mean who doesn't? She was shy and always being overshadowed by her sister. The way she doubt herself and felt she couldn't compete with her sister was a little heartbreaking to read. I don't mind that she secretly sees Cole behind her sister's back.. but throughout the book she kept putting it off that I felt so frustrated. I get it.. you feel guilty.. but seriously half of the book was all about her saying Layla this.. Layla that.. I mean.. come on!!!
She makes some unnecessary decision that I just couldn't understand. If you feel bad about dating a guy that your sister likes then just don't do it.. AT ALL. But what she did was date Cole behind her sister's back and when Cole asked her that he doesn't want to hide their relationship anymore? Oh she'll make some dumb excuse that made me want to hurt her. LOL!
I'm all into the stories that the shy awkward sister gets the hot guy theme but this book just dragged on and on about her not wanting to hurt her mean bitch sister that I lost interest halfway of the book.
I wonder if Layla is getting her own story? Because to be honest even though she was a bitch here I like her more than Emma.
Overall.. I don't love nor hate this book.. it was an okay for me and despite my little rant I finished it.
I'm giving this 4 stars and that's mainly for Cole!
October 14, 2013
Now and Then is such a great story about love and the complex relationships of siblings. Can you imagine living in the shadow of your sister? Well I can so I totally related to this story in that aspect.Emma has lived her whole life living in the shadow of her spoiled and selfish sister Layla. They live next door to Cole and Layla wants him and Emma loves him. She has had a crush on him for the longest time and no one can compare or stand up to her crush for him.
Emma has traveled and come back home and she is now a graphic designer. When she comes home and she sees Cole again she is reminded that her heart still belongs to him. Emma wants no one else she wants Cole and maybe now that they are older she can have him. The only thing is is that Layla wants him and she is determined to get Cole. So Emma does what she has been doing for the longest and that is pinning for Cole from afar.
Cole is every womens wet dream guy. He is gorgeous and smart and he is an attorney. He is also closed off in the love department because he wants to advance in his career and make a name for himself be fore he will even consider settling down. But fate is a bitch and she has other things in mind for him and when he runs into the gorgeous Emma his life is about to change and change in ways he never thought. Cole can't seem to get Emma out of his mind and his heart. He never intended to fall in love with her but he has and now that he knows Emma loves him to they start a relationship but have to keep it a secret from Layla. She is evil and vile and vindictive so they have to do a down low relationship. But what happens when past things come back to haunt them and threaten to break their very fragile relationship? Will Cole still stand by Emma's side or will he bolt?
Emma has traveled and come back home and she is now a graphic designer. When she comes home and she sees Cole again she is reminded that her heart still belongs to him. Emma wants no one else she wants Cole and maybe now that they are older she can have him. The only thing is is that Layla wants him and she is determined to get Cole. So Emma does what she has been doing for the longest and that is pinning for Cole from afar.
Cole is every womens wet dream guy. He is gorgeous and smart and he is an attorney. He is also closed off in the love department because he wants to advance in his career and make a name for himself be fore he will even consider settling down. But fate is a bitch and she has other things in mind for him and when he runs into the gorgeous Emma his life is about to change and change in ways he never thought. Cole can't seem to get Emma out of his mind and his heart. He never intended to fall in love with her but he has and now that he knows Emma loves him to they start a relationship but have to keep it a secret from Layla. She is evil and vile and vindictive so they have to do a down low relationship. But what happens when past things come back to haunt them and threaten to break their very fragile relationship? Will Cole still stand by Emma's side or will he bolt?
December 31, 2013
This is one of those novels that you become emotionally attached to. I felt like I relived high school right alongside the characters, while watching them become amazing professionals in their own fields. I laughed, I cringed, I cried ‘aww’ and squealed like a little girl. Rothert’s writing style is down to earth and very well put together. It allows her readers to flow easily from one scene to the next. I really enjoyed how Rothert works the ‘Now’ & ‘Then’ sections into her writing. The differences in time are easy to follow and remain distinctly separate. The writing style and tone shifts slightly, highlighting the differences in the characters from high school to the professional world. I also appreciate how this story was about more than just a couple. Entire families and their relationships come into play. It makes everything that much more intense and believable.
And don’t even get me started on the characters. The main couple were phenomenal. I loved that they weren’t perfect, but were perfect for each other. They were thoroughly developed in all their brilliance and deficiencies. The supporting cast was also quite well developed. I came to love them and feel like part of their families by the end.
Overall, this was a brilliant read that I would definitely read again. I can’t wait to delve further into this series and get to know the rest of the characters more intimately.
Please note that I received this novel free of charge from the author in exchange for an honest review.
And don’t even get me started on the characters. The main couple were phenomenal. I loved that they weren’t perfect, but were perfect for each other. They were thoroughly developed in all their brilliance and deficiencies. The supporting cast was also quite well developed. I came to love them and feel like part of their families by the end.
Overall, this was a brilliant read that I would definitely read again. I can’t wait to delve further into this series and get to know the rest of the characters more intimately.
Please note that I received this novel free of charge from the author in exchange for an honest review.
December 22, 2013
Ok, Brenda this has got to stop. Randomly, I started this book not paying attention to who the author was. I just gave "Bound", my favorite book of the year when I discovered why I enjoyed this book so much....you wrote this also. Why I say that I have to have it stop is because I fall for your guys, I cheer for the girls, and pretty much am not getting ready for Christmas cause I can't put your books down. Thanks, now pass the scotch tape I got presents to wrap before I start any more books! Ps. The scene when she paints and he "helps" was awesome and extremely hot.
dnf
April 6, 2015DNF at 15%
This plot doesn't make any sense whatsoever. Emma's sister decides she will marry Cole (without having any feelings for him whatsoever) because it's time for her to get married and Emma doesn't tell her that he's interested in her instead? WTH? I also don't like how Emma keeps bringing the sister up over and over when Cole is clearly not interested.
Also, I'm not liking the flashbacks to the past. They are not interesting at all.
This plot doesn't make any sense whatsoever. Emma's sister decides she will marry Cole (without having any feelings for him whatsoever) because it's time for her to get married and Emma doesn't tell her that he's interested in her instead? WTH? I also don't like how Emma keeps bringing the sister up over and over when Cole is clearly not interested.
Also, I'm not liking the flashbacks to the past. They are not interesting at all.
October 14, 2013
Find this review and more on my blog...
I love books about characters with a crush or an attraction that started in high school or college and comes to a head when the characters are reacquainted later in life. Even better if the person in question happens to have been dating a friend or a relative way back when. The object of the crush is forbidden fruit. That is absolutely the case here. Emma has always had a crush on Cole, the boy next door. But, Cole was dating her sister, Layla, and she didn’t stand a chance… then. Now’s a different story.
Emma has grown out of the shy, awkward teenager she once was. She spent time at art school in Paris. She dated and slept around. She’s a successful graphic designer now. Emma’s one major flaw is that she continues to seek the approval of her sister, Layla. Layla is a royal bitch. She’s selfish. I found no redeeming qualities in Layla. She’s used to getting what she wants, regardless of who might get hurt in the process. What she wants now is a husband. Sure, she’s content to sleep around until she finds a husband, and that’s fine, though it makes her more than a little hypocritical later in the story. When Cole enters the sisters’ lives again, Layla decides they’re long overdue for a reunion. She’ll get him.
There’s one big obstacle in her way, however: Emma. When Cole and Emma run into each other in the present day, he realizes she’s so much more than “Layla’s little sister.” But, he knew she should be off-limits. Their families are very close friends and it seems as though both sets of parents are secretly hoping Cole and Layla will get back together. He can’t deny the pull he feels to Emma, though. They begin to hang out innocently enough, at first, but it doesn’t take long for their chemistry and feelings for each other to overrule their better judgement. Emma insists they keep their relationship a secret. She doesn’t want to hurt her sister or disappoint her family. Cole’s hurt, but he agrees to play along. For awhile anyhow.
Emma’s insistence on keeping their relationship a secret seemed silly to me – just like it did to her friend, Dani. Cole’s a catch. He’s a hot-shot lawyer, he’s gorgeous, he treats Emma well and he wants to make their relationship public. They have a deep attraction and a ton of chemistry. But, Emma’s still seeking her sister’s approval and she doesn’t want anything to get in the way of that. Not that Layla deserves a man like Cole, but that’s just my opinion. Layla can play her sister like a fiddle. She lies and manipulates. She doesn’t know that Emma and Cole are dating, but she sees that he pays more attention to Emma than she likes. She grossly exaggerates any interactions she has with him and Emma is soon doubting Cole’s feelings and intentions. This puts a strain on their relationship. As you can well imagine, secrets don’t stay secret for long. Layla’s been lying to her sister for years. Emma’s been lying to Layla and her parents about Cole. Cole has been keeping a secret about his sister from Emma.
To say I enjoyed this book would be a gross understatement. I was enthralled with it. I admired Emma. I lusted after Cole. I wanted to slap Layla silly. Each of these characters brought something unique to the story. This one gave me everything I want in a book: love, friendship, lust, lies, family and STEAM! I know the next book in the series, Now and Again, is Layla’s book. I have reservations about this one just because I felt so strongly against her in this book. But, I enjoy Brenda’s writing so much that I simply have to read it. Maybe I’ll find something about Layla that I can appreciate. Plus, hopefully there will be an appearance or two by Emma and Cole.
I received a copy of this book from the author in exchange for an honest review.
I love books about characters with a crush or an attraction that started in high school or college and comes to a head when the characters are reacquainted later in life. Even better if the person in question happens to have been dating a friend or a relative way back when. The object of the crush is forbidden fruit. That is absolutely the case here. Emma has always had a crush on Cole, the boy next door. But, Cole was dating her sister, Layla, and she didn’t stand a chance… then. Now’s a different story.
“A bitch is a bitch. I think that’s inscribed in hieroglyphics on a pyramid somewhere. And hotness does not make up for it.”
Emma has grown out of the shy, awkward teenager she once was. She spent time at art school in Paris. She dated and slept around. She’s a successful graphic designer now. Emma’s one major flaw is that she continues to seek the approval of her sister, Layla. Layla is a royal bitch. She’s selfish. I found no redeeming qualities in Layla. She’s used to getting what she wants, regardless of who might get hurt in the process. What she wants now is a husband. Sure, she’s content to sleep around until she finds a husband, and that’s fine, though it makes her more than a little hypocritical later in the story. When Cole enters the sisters’ lives again, Layla decides they’re long overdue for a reunion. She’ll get him.
“When you girls get ready to settle down, I want you to remember how important it is that you choose a man who will be your partner in every way,” their mother said earnestly. “Don’t settle for attraction or money, because you’ll be sorry if you do. Choose someone who’s your best friend.”
There’s one big obstacle in her way, however: Emma. When Cole and Emma run into each other in the present day, he realizes she’s so much more than “Layla’s little sister.” But, he knew she should be off-limits. Their families are very close friends and it seems as though both sets of parents are secretly hoping Cole and Layla will get back together. He can’t deny the pull he feels to Emma, though. They begin to hang out innocently enough, at first, but it doesn’t take long for their chemistry and feelings for each other to overrule their better judgement. Emma insists they keep their relationship a secret. She doesn’t want to hurt her sister or disappoint her family. Cole’s hurt, but he agrees to play along. For awhile anyhow.
“Are you nuts? He wants you to claim him, Emma. Men need that. Be proud he’s yours. If I was with Cole, I’d be wearing a t-shirt with his picture on it while tap dancing his name in Morse code.”
“Layla’s a lying bitch,” he said. “But if you choose to believe her over me, fine. I didn’t lie to you, but if you don’t trust me, we’ve got nothing left to talk about.”
Emma’s insistence on keeping their relationship a secret seemed silly to me – just like it did to her friend, Dani. Cole’s a catch. He’s a hot-shot lawyer, he’s gorgeous, he treats Emma well and he wants to make their relationship public. They have a deep attraction and a ton of chemistry. But, Emma’s still seeking her sister’s approval and she doesn’t want anything to get in the way of that. Not that Layla deserves a man like Cole, but that’s just my opinion. Layla can play her sister like a fiddle. She lies and manipulates. She doesn’t know that Emma and Cole are dating, but she sees that he pays more attention to Emma than she likes. She grossly exaggerates any interactions she has with him and Emma is soon doubting Cole’s feelings and intentions. This puts a strain on their relationship. As you can well imagine, secrets don’t stay secret for long. Layla’s been lying to her sister for years. Emma’s been lying to Layla and her parents about Cole. Cole has been keeping a secret about his sister from Emma.
To say I enjoyed this book would be a gross understatement. I was enthralled with it. I admired Emma. I lusted after Cole. I wanted to slap Layla silly. Each of these characters brought something unique to the story. This one gave me everything I want in a book: love, friendship, lust, lies, family and STEAM! I know the next book in the series, Now and Again, is Layla’s book. I have reservations about this one just because I felt so strongly against her in this book. But, I enjoy Brenda’s writing so much that I simply have to read it. Maybe I’ll find something about Layla that I can appreciate. Plus, hopefully there will be an appearance or two by Emma and Cole.
I received a copy of this book from the author in exchange for an honest review.
July 10, 2014
I read a couple of other books by Ms. Rothert, Bound and Captive and WAS most suitably impressed. When I saw Now and Then was free at Amazon, well, I almost laughed at how much of a given it was that I would get it.
Emma Carson has been overshadowed all her life by her older, more beautiful, more popular sister. As a result, she has an overdeveloped inferiority complex as far as Layla, her sister goes. She has recently returned from Paris where she took an art course and is a much more confident person now. That is until she runs into Cole Marlowe, her neighbor when she was growing up and someone she’s had a crush on since they first met. I mentioned in a recent review that had the same theme, childhood crush that I totally ‘got’ it as I had one myself that lasted for years. So I get how thrown off she gets years later when she literally runs into him in a coffee shop and her heart goes pitty pat. He’s now a successful lawyer. While he was kind to Emma when they were young, now he notices that she has become gorgeous over the years since they last saw one another and he is definitely interested in getting to know this new and improved version of Emma, at first in only a physical way, but then as he gets to know her better, he wants more. But the specter of Kayla raises its ugly head. You see, Kayla had dated Cole many years ago when they were young and has decided he’s the right candidate to fit into her plans and wants him for herself. Emma and Kayla are very close friends as well as sisters now and Emma is torn between going for Cole herself considering the fact that’s she’s been half in love with him for years or thinking that now Kayla is interested, she, Emma, doesn’t stand a chance.
I think some people may have issues and get frustrated with Emma and her defeatist attitude but I had no trouble getting it at all. Sister dynamics can get weird sometimes. Having two sisters myself I know this and feeling secondary to Kayla has been a lifelong pattern with Emma and very hard to break. Plus Kayla has a temper and has no problem expressing it when she doesn’t get her way so as Emma and Cole grow closer, Emma becomes more and more leery of letting her sister know that she and Cole are an item. On top of that her parents and Cole’s parents have been friends for years and would love to see Cole and Kayla together so poor Emma is getting it from a number of sides.
This book just really worked on all cylinders for me. I felt for Emma and her issues and I loved Cole. He’s keeping something from Emma which has also had a huge impact on who he is and why he is the way he is. I did not like Kayla one single bit, but then I don’t think we are supposed to. She is the heroine in the next book and I’m really looking forward to seeing how the author redeems her. The characters are written very well, not perfect, but good, flawed people – well not Kayla but her time is coming.
I’m almost giddy with excitement over finding this author and the fact that she has more books on her list. If I don’t already have them, I will soon. She is 3 for 3 for this happy reader. As I said at the first, this is a freebie, so if you have an ereader or a tablet, GET IT!! Even if you are one of the ones who becomes so frustrated Emma you want to smack her, still it won’t cost you anything and you may find yourselves a new author. You can get either through Kindle or Kobo. I know this because I checked because I’m that keen on this book. So, give it a try says I!
Emma Carson has been overshadowed all her life by her older, more beautiful, more popular sister. As a result, she has an overdeveloped inferiority complex as far as Layla, her sister goes. She has recently returned from Paris where she took an art course and is a much more confident person now. That is until she runs into Cole Marlowe, her neighbor when she was growing up and someone she’s had a crush on since they first met. I mentioned in a recent review that had the same theme, childhood crush that I totally ‘got’ it as I had one myself that lasted for years. So I get how thrown off she gets years later when she literally runs into him in a coffee shop and her heart goes pitty pat. He’s now a successful lawyer. While he was kind to Emma when they were young, now he notices that she has become gorgeous over the years since they last saw one another and he is definitely interested in getting to know this new and improved version of Emma, at first in only a physical way, but then as he gets to know her better, he wants more. But the specter of Kayla raises its ugly head. You see, Kayla had dated Cole many years ago when they were young and has decided he’s the right candidate to fit into her plans and wants him for herself. Emma and Kayla are very close friends as well as sisters now and Emma is torn between going for Cole herself considering the fact that’s she’s been half in love with him for years or thinking that now Kayla is interested, she, Emma, doesn’t stand a chance.
I think some people may have issues and get frustrated with Emma and her defeatist attitude but I had no trouble getting it at all. Sister dynamics can get weird sometimes. Having two sisters myself I know this and feeling secondary to Kayla has been a lifelong pattern with Emma and very hard to break. Plus Kayla has a temper and has no problem expressing it when she doesn’t get her way so as Emma and Cole grow closer, Emma becomes more and more leery of letting her sister know that she and Cole are an item. On top of that her parents and Cole’s parents have been friends for years and would love to see Cole and Kayla together so poor Emma is getting it from a number of sides.
This book just really worked on all cylinders for me. I felt for Emma and her issues and I loved Cole. He’s keeping something from Emma which has also had a huge impact on who he is and why he is the way he is. I did not like Kayla one single bit, but then I don’t think we are supposed to. She is the heroine in the next book and I’m really looking forward to seeing how the author redeems her. The characters are written very well, not perfect, but good, flawed people – well not Kayla but her time is coming.
I’m almost giddy with excitement over finding this author and the fact that she has more books on her list. If I don’t already have them, I will soon. She is 3 for 3 for this happy reader. As I said at the first, this is a freebie, so if you have an ereader or a tablet, GET IT!! Even if you are one of the ones who becomes so frustrated Emma you want to smack her, still it won’t cost you anything and you may find yourselves a new author. You can get either through Kindle or Kobo. I know this because I checked because I’m that keen on this book. So, give it a try says I!
December 29, 2013
I had to gather my thoughts before writing a review for Now and Then.
I really, really liked it. I really, really loved Cole. I really, really wanted to knock Layla out about 100% of the time. I really, really wanted to shake Emma a couple of times as well, regardless of how stinking adorable she was.
Cole and Emma grew up as neighbors. Cole was three years older than Emma when he first moved in across the street. Emma had insta-love going on when she first laid eyes on Cole - although she was at an awkward phase in her life. Layla, Emma's sister, was what we call the "perfect" one. She was gorgeous, an extrovert and had her eyes on Cole since he moved in across the street as well.
Fast forward ten years later and Emma bumps into Cole (literally) at a coffee shop. And it was full speed ahead from there.
What I loved about Cole - he was down right honest. No games. No testing the waters with other females to make Emma jealous. He knew he wanted her after seeing her with a fresh pair of adult eyes and he did everything in his power to make that happen.
"I love you," he said, reaching his hands around her hips. "I'm in love with you, Em, and I want us to be together."
"You bring light into my life," he said. "I can't believe the most beautiful, smart, compassionate girl in the world lived across the street from me when I was younger and I was too blind to see it. I'm sorry."
What I loved about Emma - she laid all her cards out on the table. She confessed to him her childhood crush (and still going strong ten years later) and allowed herself to accept that her fantasy of being with Cole Marlowe was finally happen (like for real, for real!).
Emma breathlessly took in the sight of him. He work a black suit, with the jacket slung over the back of his chair and his tie loosened. A candle on the table flickered it's soft light on the handsome face she had fantasized about as a teen. She had ached for Cole Marlowe to notice her.
Enter Layla - gosh. I honestly, I wanted to knock her lights out. The mental & emotional torment she put Emma through in hopes of getting Cole years later was just brutal. And yes. She was your class A bitch.
Layla's a lying bitch," he said. "But if you choose to believe her over me, fine. I didn't lie to you, but if you don't trust me, we've got nothing left to talk about.
Moving on...
What I did not like about Emma - she cared wayyyyy too much what Layla would think about her relationship with Cole. Personally, I would told her this is what is and you just have to deal with it (as Cole told her many times).
The drama the couple have to deal with is not necessary. Emma brings it on with her feelings of not wanting to hurt Layla (honestly, I wouldn't care. She had COLE MARLOWE!!!!)
In the end - after Layla throws a mega bitch temper tantrum after she finds out about Cole and Emma - all is well that ends well.
As much as there were some frustrating parts of the story, it was worth the HEA.
Brenda - you're 2/2 for now with books that you have written that I love!!!
AND - as much as I really don't like Layla at the moment, I am moving forward with Now and Again in hopes that she may redeem herself. Hopefully.
September 30, 2013
I received a copy of Now and Then in exchange for an honest review.
Emmaline's teenage years were spent in the shadow of her beautiful older sister, Layla. In high school, Layla was one of the popular cheerleaders, hanging with the football team while Emma, 2 years younger than Layla, spent her time with the art students and crushing on her older neighbor, Cole, who happened to the be the star of the football team that Layla also wanted to date.
After high school, Emma spent time studying art in Paris where she finally feels that she has escaped the stigma of just being "Layla's little sister" and when she comes back home, she finds work as a graphic designer by day, and enjoys her art in her spare time. Layla has graduated from law school and Cole has moved back home and he too has graduated from law school.
Emma and Cole literally bump into each other at a coffeeshop, near to their work and unbeknownst to each other, both of them feel a strong attraction to each other. Emma has a strong loyalty to her sister and is afraid to act on her feelings for the boy that her sister had dibs on during their teenage years and Cole realizes that at 17 and 14, they were worlds apart but that at 27 and 24, the timing may be right for them to get to know each other again, despite something that may be holding him back.
I generally enjoy stories where an unrequited crush in high school has the chance to turn into a relationship years later and Now and Then is no exception for me. I loved almost everything about Emmaline, although I did often share Cole's frustration when Emmaline would put Layla's happiness before her own. I just wanted her to be able to accept that it wasn't on her to make her sister happy. I absolutely loved Cole and as I got to know him, I could easily understand how Emma's crush for the teenage Cole could grow as she got to know the 27 year old Cole.
This was the first book that I've read by Brenda Rothert, but I am looking forward to reading Now and Again, which is Layla's story.
Emmaline's teenage years were spent in the shadow of her beautiful older sister, Layla. In high school, Layla was one of the popular cheerleaders, hanging with the football team while Emma, 2 years younger than Layla, spent her time with the art students and crushing on her older neighbor, Cole, who happened to the be the star of the football team that Layla also wanted to date.
After high school, Emma spent time studying art in Paris where she finally feels that she has escaped the stigma of just being "Layla's little sister" and when she comes back home, she finds work as a graphic designer by day, and enjoys her art in her spare time. Layla has graduated from law school and Cole has moved back home and he too has graduated from law school.
Emma and Cole literally bump into each other at a coffeeshop, near to their work and unbeknownst to each other, both of them feel a strong attraction to each other. Emma has a strong loyalty to her sister and is afraid to act on her feelings for the boy that her sister had dibs on during their teenage years and Cole realizes that at 17 and 14, they were worlds apart but that at 27 and 24, the timing may be right for them to get to know each other again, despite something that may be holding him back.
I generally enjoy stories where an unrequited crush in high school has the chance to turn into a relationship years later and Now and Then is no exception for me. I loved almost everything about Emmaline, although I did often share Cole's frustration when Emmaline would put Layla's happiness before her own. I just wanted her to be able to accept that it wasn't on her to make her sister happy. I absolutely loved Cole and as I got to know him, I could easily understand how Emma's crush for the teenage Cole could grow as she got to know the 27 year old Cole.
This was the first book that I've read by Brenda Rothert, but I am looking forward to reading Now and Again, which is Layla's story.
October 7, 2013
I’m such a sucker for happy ever after love stories!!
I loved the characters; Emma is smart, quiet and towards the end a fighter; Cole is a hottie with brains and a body!! He fights for what he wants and he wants Emma. You can’t help but root for Emma when it comes to her sister Layla.
The story flows well; the pace is pretty fast with a few twists and the editing is great. The chapters alternate between Emma and Cole’s POV. A nice sweet love story; between childhood friends and a sister who had outshined the other while growing up.
Several spots in the story that were very touching and several quotes I really liked.
“I have to open the door, sex on legs is in my hallway. F!
“Is it possible I can drive him as crazy as he drives me?”
“You smell to f-ing good, Em, he said, forcing her back against the car as he pressed his body against hers”
“F. me! I’m trouble, he thought as he looked at her”
This is the first book I read from this author and she didn’t disappoint, I will be adding her to my favorite authors list and I’m looking forward to reading the next book in the series “Now and Again #2” which is out now!! I love that I don’t have to wait for the next one!!
I received a complimentary copy of this book in exchange for my honest opinion and review.
Title: Now and Then (Now #1)
Author: Brenda Rothert
Format: eBook 546 epgs
Length: 19 Chapters
Genre: New Adult Contemporary Romance
Published: 8/1/2013
Cover: 4 stars
Tense: First Person Present
Setting: Present day Chicago
Characters: Emmaline & Cole
Rating: 5 stars
Series: Yes!!
https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
http://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/now-a...
http://www.amazon.com/Now-Then-Series...
I loved the characters; Emma is smart, quiet and towards the end a fighter; Cole is a hottie with brains and a body!! He fights for what he wants and he wants Emma. You can’t help but root for Emma when it comes to her sister Layla.
The story flows well; the pace is pretty fast with a few twists and the editing is great. The chapters alternate between Emma and Cole’s POV. A nice sweet love story; between childhood friends and a sister who had outshined the other while growing up.
Several spots in the story that were very touching and several quotes I really liked.
“I have to open the door, sex on legs is in my hallway. F!
“Is it possible I can drive him as crazy as he drives me?”
“You smell to f-ing good, Em, he said, forcing her back against the car as he pressed his body against hers”
“F. me! I’m trouble, he thought as he looked at her”
This is the first book I read from this author and she didn’t disappoint, I will be adding her to my favorite authors list and I’m looking forward to reading the next book in the series “Now and Again #2” which is out now!! I love that I don’t have to wait for the next one!!
I received a complimentary copy of this book in exchange for my honest opinion and review.
Title: Now and Then (Now #1)
Author: Brenda Rothert
Format: eBook 546 epgs
Length: 19 Chapters
Genre: New Adult Contemporary Romance
Published: 8/1/2013
Cover: 4 stars
Tense: First Person Present
Setting: Present day Chicago
Characters: Emmaline & Cole
Rating: 5 stars
Series: Yes!!
https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
http://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/now-a...
http://www.amazon.com/Now-Then-Series...
December 7, 2013
This was an amazing read !!!! I had a friend suggest this and I'm so glad she did ... Cole and Em's story is so realistic ... I can see this in every day life... I think that's why I love Brenda's writing so well. When a author can make me feel that it is real like this one , then I know she's awesome at what she does..Cole the hot football player and popular in school always had everything going for him . The perfect life !!! Sometimes things can look deceiving...Emily the school art geek with the frizzy hair,nerd glasses and never going to fill out like other girls... . Cole and Emma's family were long time family friends. Cole moved in across from her family when he was young. She had a instant crush on him the day she saw him moving in. Keeping it a secret because her older sister Layla also liked Cole .. Layla always got what she wanted being the beautiful one ... They all grew up and moved away and went in their own direction .....Years later they bumping into each other and I mean literally bumping into each other... Cole couldn't believe what he was seeing . The young geeky girl was no longer...The beauty he saw in her just wowed him!!!... The attraction was still there for Em.. Cole was just a grown up version of hotness of his younger self !!! Reconnecting Cole realizes he wants her more than just a friend. She has always wanted him to be more . Keeping it a secret form her sister afraid she would go after him was what she tried to do but it didn't work ... Growing closer to one another Emma knew it had to stay a secret .. She didn't want her sister to find out and end up hating her ... Sometimes keeping secrets turn out worse than telling them .... This was AMAZING !!! LOVED IT !!!!!
August 13, 2016
Should've been called "Bland Love Story: Heavy on the F-bombs".
Because that's ALL it was.
It was long. A very long, LONG read that didn't go anywhere that it wasn't going on page three or page six or page thirty-eight or page gotta-be-bazillion-by-now.
Two sisters crushing on the same guy all their lives, the elder always getting the younger's goat. But finally, guy comes back to town and falls for younger sister... who doesn't want her family to know - ESPECIALLY not her sister, who still wants him. So the whole book is "please let's keep our love and constant string of sex scenes a secret", while big sis makes up stuff about him, and... it was just a LONG time until the reveal. Which was basically a four-letter word fest until the parents intervene and Big sis lets it go... the end.
And the formatting sucked. We shift from "THEN" to "NOW" throughout the book, but they aren't separate sections with decently formatted page breaks, they just show up in the middle of scenes, making the passages look cut off... and then two thirds of the way thru we have our first chapter (Chapter 16. There's also a Chapter 19 sometime later... not sure if they were 'THEN' or 'NOW'.) It was just a MESS.
There was no taste, no class, no plot, no depth of characters... the only thing the book had was a LOT of F-bombs. Heck, halfway thru the author forgot Big Sis and Guy were both attorneys, and had Guy explaining to his pro bono partner what a junior attorney is. (!?!?) Don't ask. Just skip it.
Another stinker off my eReader.
Because that's ALL it was.
It was long. A very long, LONG read that didn't go anywhere that it wasn't going on page three or page six or page thirty-eight or page gotta-be-bazillion-by-now.
Two sisters crushing on the same guy all their lives, the elder always getting the younger's goat. But finally, guy comes back to town and falls for younger sister... who doesn't want her family to know - ESPECIALLY not her sister, who still wants him. So the whole book is "please let's keep our love and constant string of sex scenes a secret", while big sis makes up stuff about him, and... it was just a LONG time until the reveal. Which was basically a four-letter word fest until the parents intervene and Big sis lets it go... the end.
And the formatting sucked. We shift from "THEN" to "NOW" throughout the book, but they aren't separate sections with decently formatted page breaks, they just show up in the middle of scenes, making the passages look cut off... and then two thirds of the way thru we have our first chapter (Chapter 16. There's also a Chapter 19 sometime later... not sure if they were 'THEN' or 'NOW'.) It was just a MESS.
There was no taste, no class, no plot, no depth of characters... the only thing the book had was a LOT of F-bombs. Heck, halfway thru the author forgot Big Sis and Guy were both attorneys, and had Guy explaining to his pro bono partner what a junior attorney is. (!?!?) Don't ask. Just skip it.
Another stinker off my eReader.
July 25, 2013
Sometimes the only thing standing in the way of now, is then.
When Brenda approached me about swapping pages, I was a little hesitant. Bringing a new critique partner in my life didn't seem like it was what I needed.
Then I read the first few pages of Now and Then and I was HOOKED.
Emma is the typical, little sister who has now grown up but still feels like she is hiding in her sister's shadow. But then Cole Marlow (literally) pummels into her life. She's had a crush on him ever since they were younger, but he always seemed more in her sister, Layla's leage.
Cole has his own cross to bear. He's never been in a relationship because there are some secrets he's been hiding (And no, it's not like anything else I've read in a NA book. But he can't help but fall for the girl that Emma has become...and fall on top of her...over and over again.
This is a sweet, sexy read that was hard for me to put down. I'd recommend it if you're in the mood for something different with a little bit of extra steam.
When Brenda approached me about swapping pages, I was a little hesitant. Bringing a new critique partner in my life didn't seem like it was what I needed.
Then I read the first few pages of Now and Then and I was HOOKED.
Emma is the typical, little sister who has now grown up but still feels like she is hiding in her sister's shadow. But then Cole Marlow (literally) pummels into her life. She's had a crush on him ever since they were younger, but he always seemed more in her sister, Layla's leage.
Cole has his own cross to bear. He's never been in a relationship because there are some secrets he's been hiding (And no, it's not like anything else I've read in a NA book. But he can't help but fall for the girl that Emma has become...and fall on top of her...over and over again.
This is a sweet, sexy read that was hard for me to put down. I'd recommend it if you're in the mood for something different with a little bit of extra steam.
October 8, 2013
*I received this book for free in exchange for an honest review*
Honestly, I did not expect to like this book as much as I did. The cover is not cohesive with the story and the idea of flipping to the past and then back to the present really didn't appeal to me.
However, this book captivated me from the very first chapter. I finished it in two nights and the only reason it wasn't finished in one is because I wasn't feeling well. It was truly great. I loved the dysfunctional relationship that Emma had with Layla. As much as I didn't like Layla she was a great character, bitchy and captivating.
The format of the book (past and present) was very well done. I love the depth it brought to the characters. I feel like it was a simple and effective way to get the readers involved in the characters.
Cole.... need I say more?
Honestly, I did not expect to like this book as much as I did. The cover is not cohesive with the story and the idea of flipping to the past and then back to the present really didn't appeal to me.
However, this book captivated me from the very first chapter. I finished it in two nights and the only reason it wasn't finished in one is because I wasn't feeling well. It was truly great. I loved the dysfunctional relationship that Emma had with Layla. As much as I didn't like Layla she was a great character, bitchy and captivating.
The format of the book (past and present) was very well done. I love the depth it brought to the characters. I feel like it was a simple and effective way to get the readers involved in the characters.
Cole.... need I say more?
September 30, 2013
copy given in exchange for an honest review
Now and Then tells the story of 2 childhood friends who lost touch then reconnect later in life and fall in love. As with any romance story there are obstacles that they both have to face the main one being sibling rivalry.
I really enjoyed reading this book, the story had me from the start and I was hooked and could not put it down until I was finished which would have been fine had I not started to read it at 3.30am when being woken up by my baby! lol
This story had a good pace to it and thankfully didn't end with any cliff hangers like most books have been doing lately, I really enjoyed Emma's and Cole's story and can't wait to read the next book in this series to see what happens with Layla.
Now and Then tells the story of 2 childhood friends who lost touch then reconnect later in life and fall in love. As with any romance story there are obstacles that they both have to face the main one being sibling rivalry.
I really enjoyed reading this book, the story had me from the start and I was hooked and could not put it down until I was finished which would have been fine had I not started to read it at 3.30am when being woken up by my baby! lol
This story had a good pace to it and thankfully didn't end with any cliff hangers like most books have been doing lately, I really enjoyed Emma's and Cole's story and can't wait to read the next book in this series to see what happens with Layla.
March 27, 2016
3.5 Stars
I really liked this book, but the heroine, Emma, was grating on my nerves. If I had a man like Cole in my life, I would be shouting it from the rooftops. I'm glad she kept their relationship a secret at first, but the closer Emma and Cole got, she still thought it would be best to keep it a secret. As for the reasoning behind it, it was dumb. Maybe I'm just a jaded person in general, but I would've told my sister way sooner especially when said sister was a psycho bitch. Just sayin...
I really liked this book, but the heroine, Emma, was grating on my nerves. If I had a man like Cole in my life, I would be shouting it from the rooftops. I'm glad she kept their relationship a secret at first, but the closer Emma and Cole got, she still thought it would be best to keep it a secret. As for the reasoning behind it, it was dumb. Maybe I'm just a jaded person in general, but I would've told my sister way sooner especially when said sister was a psycho bitch. Just sayin...
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