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Now #3
Now and Forever
Now that Emma and Layla Carson have landed the men of their dreams, it’s time for happily ever after. Or is it?
Emma’s with childhood crush Cole Marlowe, and Layla finally found Mr. Right in alpha cop Ben Montrose. But both couples face unexpected obstacles that will test their relationships. Layla and Emma find solace in each other as battle lines are drawn, and they rediscover the close friendship they lost over Cole.
It’s all on the line as the sisters struggle to find the answer to the most difficult question they’ve ever faced: is the love they have now meant to last forever?
Emma’s with childhood crush Cole Marlowe, and Layla finally found Mr. Right in alpha cop Ben Montrose. But both couples face unexpected obstacles that will test their relationships. Layla and Emma find solace in each other as battle lines are drawn, and they rediscover the close friendship they lost over Cole.
It’s all on the line as the sisters struggle to find the answer to the most difficult question they’ve ever faced: is the love they have now meant to last forever?
203 pages, Unknown Binding
First published March 9, 2014
41 people are currently reading
973 people want to read
About the author
Brenda Rothert
91 books2,266 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 96 reviews
March 11, 2014
** ARC provided by author in exchange of honest review**
Now and Forever is the final conclusion of the Now Series. It is highly recommended that you must read this series in order. This third installment chronicles Layla and Emma Carson as their relationships as sisters and their respective partners are tested. Can the Carson sisters finally get their Now and Forever? Or is the fairytale ending only possible for one sister?
Emma and Cole are finally on the right track. Emma has finally fulfilled her dreams of opening her pastry shop and Cole is a successful attorney. Miss independent Layla finally found someone who can stand up to her in Ben. Both Ben and Layla compliment each other. So it seems this foursome are on the way of a HEA… Well appearances can be deceiving.
Well for Emma an unplanned pregnancy and Cole’s legal troubles at work, puts this happy couple in a financial dilemma. And when Cole proposes to her, Emma rejects him. She worries that Cole is asking her hand in marriage out of obligation for their baby or is it because he wants to marry her. As for Layla, her career is finally taking off and she found peace and happiness with Ben. When Ben proposed to her, Layla couldn’t wait to settle down with him. But Layla’s happy bubble is interrupted when she finds out Ben and her wants different things when it comes to raising their future kids. Layla is engaged. Emma is pregnant. Shouldn’t the Carson sisters be on cloud nine? Luckily for Layla and Emma, their relationship problems didn’t interfere with their sibling relationship. It seems that Carson sisters are finally mending their relationship. Will the sisters finally get their HEA?
Can I say that I’m sad to say goodbye to Layla and Ben.. They were indeed my favorite couple of the Now series!! As much as I like Emma and Cole, Ben and Layla’s chemistry was just a tad bit more passionate than Emma and Cole. They had this magnetic pull that I felt was much stronger than Em and Cole. Yes, I think Em and Cole are perfect for each other but in Now and Forever felt more driven with Layla and Ben’s storyline. I found myself wanting more Layla and Ben scenes. Needless to say, Em and Cole relationship showed how strong indeed their love was especially with all financial, legal troubles, and pregnancy. Overall, I thought Brenda did an excellent job in showcasing multiple POVs between the four main characters. She was able to combine two couples into one story-line that flowed naturally. Ms. Rothert- can you please bring back Layla and Ben and make another story with this couple? I absolutely love and adore them.
Now and Forever is the final conclusion of the Now Series. It is highly recommended that you must read this series in order. This third installment chronicles Layla and Emma Carson as their relationships as sisters and their respective partners are tested. Can the Carson sisters finally get their Now and Forever? Or is the fairytale ending only possible for one sister?
Emma and Cole are finally on the right track. Emma has finally fulfilled her dreams of opening her pastry shop and Cole is a successful attorney. Miss independent Layla finally found someone who can stand up to her in Ben. Both Ben and Layla compliment each other. So it seems this foursome are on the way of a HEA… Well appearances can be deceiving.
Well for Emma an unplanned pregnancy and Cole’s legal troubles at work, puts this happy couple in a financial dilemma. And when Cole proposes to her, Emma rejects him. She worries that Cole is asking her hand in marriage out of obligation for their baby or is it because he wants to marry her. As for Layla, her career is finally taking off and she found peace and happiness with Ben. When Ben proposed to her, Layla couldn’t wait to settle down with him. But Layla’s happy bubble is interrupted when she finds out Ben and her wants different things when it comes to raising their future kids. Layla is engaged. Emma is pregnant. Shouldn’t the Carson sisters be on cloud nine? Luckily for Layla and Emma, their relationship problems didn’t interfere with their sibling relationship. It seems that Carson sisters are finally mending their relationship. Will the sisters finally get their HEA?
Can I say that I’m sad to say goodbye to Layla and Ben.. They were indeed my favorite couple of the Now series!! As much as I like Emma and Cole, Ben and Layla’s chemistry was just a tad bit more passionate than Emma and Cole. They had this magnetic pull that I felt was much stronger than Em and Cole. Yes, I think Em and Cole are perfect for each other but in Now and Forever felt more driven with Layla and Ben’s storyline. I found myself wanting more Layla and Ben scenes. Needless to say, Em and Cole relationship showed how strong indeed their love was especially with all financial, legal troubles, and pregnancy. Overall, I thought Brenda did an excellent job in showcasing multiple POVs between the four main characters. She was able to combine two couples into one story-line that flowed naturally. Ms. Rothert- can you please bring back Layla and Ben and make another story with this couple? I absolutely love and adore them.
March 10, 2014
I was lucky enough to get to beta read this gem.
This is the third book in the Now series. Please do not read out of order. This book is meant to conclude the stories from the first two books.
***Warning: spoilers if you haven't read the first 2 books***
A little recap first. In the first book, we meet Emma and Cole. Childhood friends that fall in love later on in life. We also meet Layla who is Emma's sister. Initially, Layla thought Cole would be perfect for herself not even thinking about her younger sister. At the end of the first book we get a happy ending for Emma and Cole but no so much for Emma and Layla. In the second book, we get Layla's story. Layla is a pistol but she does an about face in this book as she realizes she has to change her promiscuous ways. She meets Ben, alpha male to her alpha woman. We get to see a happy ending for Layla and Ben. And the two sisters are starting to find their way back to each other.
***********Spoilers over*************
In Now and Forever do we finally get to see both couples get their happily ever after?? Each couple has their own struggles as they try to make things work out. I'm not even going to hint at what the struggles are because I don't want to spoil anything for the reader. Let's just say there were roadblocks that even I didn't see coming.
This was an enjoyable read on so many levels. For starters, this book had a little bit of everything. Romance, humor, mystery and drama. All the makings for a good book. Brenda has really found her way in writing a good romance (can we say steamy???). And if you liked this series you need to check out her Fire on Ice series too. Okay, shameless plug is over.
Another thing I liked about this book was the multiple POV's. We get the rotating voice of all four main characters. And all four characters have a unique voice. It was seamless to go from one to the next. Brenda's writing style is easy to follow. It's easy to fall into the story and forget about anything else.
****Copy provided by the fabulous Brenda Rothert in exchange for my honest opinion***
This is the third book in the Now series. Please do not read out of order. This book is meant to conclude the stories from the first two books.
***Warning: spoilers if you haven't read the first 2 books***
A little recap first. In the first book, we meet Emma and Cole. Childhood friends that fall in love later on in life. We also meet Layla who is Emma's sister. Initially, Layla thought Cole would be perfect for herself not even thinking about her younger sister. At the end of the first book we get a happy ending for Emma and Cole but no so much for Emma and Layla. In the second book, we get Layla's story. Layla is a pistol but she does an about face in this book as she realizes she has to change her promiscuous ways. She meets Ben, alpha male to her alpha woman. We get to see a happy ending for Layla and Ben. And the two sisters are starting to find their way back to each other.
***********Spoilers over*************
In Now and Forever do we finally get to see both couples get their happily ever after?? Each couple has their own struggles as they try to make things work out. I'm not even going to hint at what the struggles are because I don't want to spoil anything for the reader. Let's just say there were roadblocks that even I didn't see coming.
This was an enjoyable read on so many levels. For starters, this book had a little bit of everything. Romance, humor, mystery and drama. All the makings for a good book. Brenda has really found her way in writing a good romance (can we say steamy???). And if you liked this series you need to check out her Fire on Ice series too. Okay, shameless plug is over.
Another thing I liked about this book was the multiple POV's. We get the rotating voice of all four main characters. And all four characters have a unique voice. It was seamless to go from one to the next. Brenda's writing style is easy to follow. It's easy to fall into the story and forget about anything else.
****Copy provided by the fabulous Brenda Rothert in exchange for my honest opinion***
March 14, 2014
I was a little hesitant to read this book at first. After all, Emma and Cole were finally together at the end of Now and Then, and Layla and Ben had also found true love in Now and Again. Why write another story about them?
But after reading Now and Forever, I changed my mind. After all, reality is not exactly happily ever after. Every relationship has its up and downs and every couple has to face challenges in their relationship. I loved how Brenda Rothert wrote this story. I was guessing what would happen when I was reading the start of the story and I was happily surprised that it was completely from what I thought would happen.
I was a little irritated with Emma several times in the book and I thought Ben was a little too chauvinistic but these actually make the story more real and make the characters more human. Sad to finish the end of a great series. Looking forward to more of Brenda Rothert's books.
But after reading Now and Forever, I changed my mind. After all, reality is not exactly happily ever after. Every relationship has its up and downs and every couple has to face challenges in their relationship. I loved how Brenda Rothert wrote this story. I was guessing what would happen when I was reading the start of the story and I was happily surprised that it was completely from what I thought would happen.
I was a little irritated with Emma several times in the book and I thought Ben was a little too chauvinistic but these actually make the story more real and make the characters more human. Sad to finish the end of a great series. Looking forward to more of Brenda Rothert's books.
July 25, 2016
I can not sing my praises of Author Brenda Rothert loud enough!
Now and Then (Book 1) brought us Cole and Ema. We enjoyed their hot chemistry and sweet romance that took more than a decade to come to light. Now and Again (Book 2) dived into the story of Ben and Layla. Two different personalities collided and gave us dominance and passion. Now and Forever has taken the stories of these two couples and given them the forever that they all deserve.
~No major spoilers, but read with caution~
-Cole is faced with an accusation in this installment that has him in fear of losing his career and his ability to be all that he wants to be to Emma. He knows for certain that she is his happily ever after and just needs to convince her that current events are not what is pushing him to make her his forever.
-Emma knows, and probably always has known that Cole is the kind of man she has always wanted. She struggles with taking the leap because she wants to be sure that Cole wants a forever with her for all the right reasons. With the future success of the bakery in question, working long hours, and Cole's current situation, Emma is uncertain of what her future holds.
-Ben continues to be the dominate alpha male in this book. Layla is what he wants and is determined to have her whether they agree or disagree about how they will deal with their future together. He decides that they will take a step back with their physical relationship in order to strengthen their bond which leaves them both frustrated in more ways than one.
-Layla remains as head strong as ever. She values her career as an attorney and feels that Ben doesn't fully understand what it means to her and have pride in all that she does. She questions whether or not they can make their relationship work when they have such varying views on what their future will look like. She doesn't want to lose Ben, but she also refuses to lose herself.
Brenda intertwined the stories of both of these couples beautifully and gave us the happily ever after they both deserved. This installment is told in multiple POV's. We were able to experience what each person was thinking and feeling. She writes her characters realistically with every day issues and brings them to a resolution that the reader can relate to. She has a smooth style that makes for easy reading. With this series, she gave us love, passion, suspense, uncertainty, lust and pure happiness. I will miss these couples, but I am happy with the conclusion we were given and know that both couples will have the future they were meant to have.
I highly recommend this series! Begin with book one - Now and Then. I promise you will enjoy the journey!
Now and Then (Book 1) brought us Cole and Ema. We enjoyed their hot chemistry and sweet romance that took more than a decade to come to light. Now and Again (Book 2) dived into the story of Ben and Layla. Two different personalities collided and gave us dominance and passion. Now and Forever has taken the stories of these two couples and given them the forever that they all deserve.
~No major spoilers, but read with caution~
-Cole is faced with an accusation in this installment that has him in fear of losing his career and his ability to be all that he wants to be to Emma. He knows for certain that she is his happily ever after and just needs to convince her that current events are not what is pushing him to make her his forever.
-Emma knows, and probably always has known that Cole is the kind of man she has always wanted. She struggles with taking the leap because she wants to be sure that Cole wants a forever with her for all the right reasons. With the future success of the bakery in question, working long hours, and Cole's current situation, Emma is uncertain of what her future holds.
-Ben continues to be the dominate alpha male in this book. Layla is what he wants and is determined to have her whether they agree or disagree about how they will deal with their future together. He decides that they will take a step back with their physical relationship in order to strengthen their bond which leaves them both frustrated in more ways than one.
-Layla remains as head strong as ever. She values her career as an attorney and feels that Ben doesn't fully understand what it means to her and have pride in all that she does. She questions whether or not they can make their relationship work when they have such varying views on what their future will look like. She doesn't want to lose Ben, but she also refuses to lose herself.
Brenda intertwined the stories of both of these couples beautifully and gave us the happily ever after they both deserved. This installment is told in multiple POV's. We were able to experience what each person was thinking and feeling. She writes her characters realistically with every day issues and brings them to a resolution that the reader can relate to. She has a smooth style that makes for easy reading. With this series, she gave us love, passion, suspense, uncertainty, lust and pure happiness. I will miss these couples, but I am happy with the conclusion we were given and know that both couples will have the future they were meant to have.
I highly recommend this series! Begin with book one - Now and Then. I promise you will enjoy the journey!
March 14, 2014
An ARC was given to me by the author for my honest review #Spoilers in this review #
I was a little sad to finish reading this last book in the series. Over the last three books I have come to love the characters and watch them grow. Emma and Layla's relationship flourishes as does their fiancés . Emma finally gets her dream of the bakery up and running just in a time for her world to come crashing down. She finds out she's pregnant, Cole gets arrested for embezzling money at his firm, and her dad basically disowns her when the news of her pregnancy gets around. Cole pops the question but Emma refuses because she thinks he is only asking because of the pregnancy. She eventually comes around and actually proposes to Cole in the end. Layla and Ben get engaged but Ben makes the mistake of basically wanting Layla to stay home barefoot and pregnant. Needless to say that does not go over well. There are other small obstacles that both couples overcome but eventually get their HEA. In the end, both couples get married in a small ceremony in Figi with just family and close friends. It was a very nice touch. Emma has the baby and all is well. I really enjoyed this trilogy and recommend it to anyone.
I was a little sad to finish reading this last book in the series. Over the last three books I have come to love the characters and watch them grow. Emma and Layla's relationship flourishes as does their fiancés . Emma finally gets her dream of the bakery up and running just in a time for her world to come crashing down. She finds out she's pregnant, Cole gets arrested for embezzling money at his firm, and her dad basically disowns her when the news of her pregnancy gets around. Cole pops the question but Emma refuses because she thinks he is only asking because of the pregnancy. She eventually comes around and actually proposes to Cole in the end. Layla and Ben get engaged but Ben makes the mistake of basically wanting Layla to stay home barefoot and pregnant. Needless to say that does not go over well. There are other small obstacles that both couples overcome but eventually get their HEA. In the end, both couples get married in a small ceremony in Figi with just family and close friends. It was a very nice touch. Emma has the baby and all is well. I really enjoyed this trilogy and recommend it to anyone.
March 25, 2014
What are the odds that you have 3 books in a series and every single one is freaking amazing. I absolutely admire the author, she does amazing writing. She gets me hooked. I don't want to do anything actually I got nothing accomplished in two days other than reading. I didn't want to cook,clean or anything. I was too consumed, I had to know more and more. I loved Layla and Ben and I looooved Cole and Emma.
This book is about both couples, their struggles, their lives, marriage, babies everything. It once again gives you the adrenaline boost and had your heart bearing from your chest. The moments of intensity that you may need a very cold shower and the simple awe moments. The only thing I could think to say is I could still read more of both couples. It is just simply amazing and fulfilling.
I will definitely be reading the other books the author has.
This book is about both couples, their struggles, their lives, marriage, babies everything. It once again gives you the adrenaline boost and had your heart bearing from your chest. The moments of intensity that you may need a very cold shower and the simple awe moments. The only thing I could think to say is I could still read more of both couples. It is just simply amazing and fulfilling.
I will definitely be reading the other books the author has.
March 23, 2014
What a great conclusion to an amazing series. But I still want more Brenda Rothert!!! I will miss Ben and Cole (oh and Emma and Layla, lol).
I loved the drama and emotional ride from this story. I wanted to smack Layla a couple of times (just like always!) but I loved it!! I LOVE Caveman Ben!!!
I loved the drama and emotional ride from this story. I wanted to smack Layla a couple of times (just like always!) but I loved it!! I LOVE Caveman Ben!!!
August 8, 2021
This didn't make any sense to me. So Emma's dad had no problem with Emma and Cole living together but when Emma got pregnant he was all mad and then hated Cole? What in the heck, what the heck did he think they were doing? playing monopoly? And Emma was the good daughter. Yet he had no problem paying for Layla's wedding to Ben, when Layla, slept with all of Chicago, I mean that girl went around town, and was known for it. Hypocritical. Then we have Ben, dude he is a cave man, wanting Layla to quit he job and just take of her kids, what in the heck.. Anyway, it all worked out in the end...I know a lot of people weren't crazy about Cole after the second book, which I am sorry, but I understood him to feel that way with knowing how slutty Layla was, yes he was wrong and he admitted so I love him and he loves Emma and he did right by her, so to me he is the best in this series.
January 26, 2018
Good ending to the series.
March 21, 2014
Brenda Rothert is such a rare gem and has that amazing ability to draw you in with her imagination and cleverness.
This 3rd book is the culmination and tying together of 2 sisters' romantic journeys to find love and how they intermix and interact is integral to the success of this last book.
I received an ARC for my honest feedback and have in no way been coerced, bribed or otherwise influenced into providing this commentary and feedback.
I was wondering how she would convincingly and fully explore both couples, giving them ample time to evolve before I hoped they achieved their HEAs.
Emma Carson and Cole Marlowe have history from their childhood but it was not all rainbows and roses. Basically, Emma blossoms into a swan and Cole and her reconnect in an earlier book. This book propels us into their here and now, setting the tone for the future. Reading this, you wanted to believe they would make it through their trials and tribulations, and without giving specifics away they do find their way through the quagmire and landmines planted by others in a most fulfilling manner.
Layla Carson and Ben Montrose are very different in temperament, expectations, etc from Emma and Cole and that is precisely why this works so well for me. Layla is a firecracker, hot-blooded, vehemently passionate about her profession and held onto her idea of 'Mr. Right' for far too long. She was mostly influenced by the flash and material possessions, but you see her transform through the storyline and grow into someone she can be proud of. Ben is a working class alpha male with lots of emotional baggage from his formative years and together, they tackle the 'baggage carousel' of a relationship and come out richer for it. They both independent and strong individuals who work well together.
The sisters are very different and this book really shows the exploration of their sisterly bonds that is reformed through support of one another, and by finding their own happiness. Emma grew up in Layla's shadow as the younger sister, yet Layla comes to appreciate her younger sister in ways she hadn't previously, and the same is true for Emma concerning Layla. I enjoyed seeing the relationship dynamics between them with Cole and Ben, and yes folks..they ultimately get their HEAs. They grow as individuals, as well as, couples.
The only thing I can really say constructively is I would like to have experienced the "Emma and Cole" POV for one very big scene in the book.
This book is a fun and sexy read and was woven together masterfully. Quite enjoyable!
No cliffhanger here either.
Two thumbs up, loved this series.
This 3rd book is the culmination and tying together of 2 sisters' romantic journeys to find love and how they intermix and interact is integral to the success of this last book.
I received an ARC for my honest feedback and have in no way been coerced, bribed or otherwise influenced into providing this commentary and feedback.
I was wondering how she would convincingly and fully explore both couples, giving them ample time to evolve before I hoped they achieved their HEAs.
Emma Carson and Cole Marlowe have history from their childhood but it was not all rainbows and roses. Basically, Emma blossoms into a swan and Cole and her reconnect in an earlier book. This book propels us into their here and now, setting the tone for the future. Reading this, you wanted to believe they would make it through their trials and tribulations, and without giving specifics away they do find their way through the quagmire and landmines planted by others in a most fulfilling manner.
Layla Carson and Ben Montrose are very different in temperament, expectations, etc from Emma and Cole and that is precisely why this works so well for me. Layla is a firecracker, hot-blooded, vehemently passionate about her profession and held onto her idea of 'Mr. Right' for far too long. She was mostly influenced by the flash and material possessions, but you see her transform through the storyline and grow into someone she can be proud of. Ben is a working class alpha male with lots of emotional baggage from his formative years and together, they tackle the 'baggage carousel' of a relationship and come out richer for it. They both independent and strong individuals who work well together.
The sisters are very different and this book really shows the exploration of their sisterly bonds that is reformed through support of one another, and by finding their own happiness. Emma grew up in Layla's shadow as the younger sister, yet Layla comes to appreciate her younger sister in ways she hadn't previously, and the same is true for Emma concerning Layla. I enjoyed seeing the relationship dynamics between them with Cole and Ben, and yes folks..they ultimately get their HEAs. They grow as individuals, as well as, couples.
The only thing I can really say constructively is I would like to have experienced the "Emma and Cole" POV for one very big scene in the book.
This book is a fun and sexy read and was woven together masterfully. Quite enjoyable!
No cliffhanger here either.
Two thumbs up, loved this series.
December 10, 2014
I loved the first two books and I was definitely more team Emma/Cole than Layla/Ben, well I changed teams this book!
Emma and Cole love each other but are working hard in their respective careers and their relationship is suffering a bit. Add a little surprise and a false accusation to the mix and things really get interesting for them. Would their love and commitment to each other be enough to save the relationship?
Layla and Ben definitely love each other, their love fests in the bedroom are off the charts and their new found commitment to one another seals their love story…or not? Ben chauvinistic ways might be a bit too much for Layla. Can their love survive when one person wants to dictate the other one’s future?
Brenda is a great storyteller and I loved the way she intertwined the stories of these two couples. I loved Cole from the beginning but this time around maybe a bit more. Emma on the other hand, there were times I wanted to smack her outside the head and ask her what was wrong with her, she annoyed me a bit, but redeemed herself at the end. I was on team Layla 100% this time around, while I knew she loved Ben with all her being, I completely understood her reservations on moving forward with him after what she found out. Ben is a loving man with a strong personality and an old around alpha male. He loves Layla but he will need to give in certain things as well to understand that Layla is not a woman who will be following his orders like the guys around the precinct.
Brenda leads you through the story with a fluidity that makes you live and enjoy the story along with the characters. I love that she brought their stories full circle, and also the fact that even though some of the things they dealt with were serious issues, she made it easier for the reader to stay on top of the story. I would recommend that you read the first two books of this series before you read this one but I’ll promise it will be worth it. I can’t wait to see what Brenda comes out with next, I’m a fan for life…
Emma and Cole love each other but are working hard in their respective careers and their relationship is suffering a bit. Add a little surprise and a false accusation to the mix and things really get interesting for them. Would their love and commitment to each other be enough to save the relationship?
Layla and Ben definitely love each other, their love fests in the bedroom are off the charts and their new found commitment to one another seals their love story…or not? Ben chauvinistic ways might be a bit too much for Layla. Can their love survive when one person wants to dictate the other one’s future?
Brenda is a great storyteller and I loved the way she intertwined the stories of these two couples. I loved Cole from the beginning but this time around maybe a bit more. Emma on the other hand, there were times I wanted to smack her outside the head and ask her what was wrong with her, she annoyed me a bit, but redeemed herself at the end. I was on team Layla 100% this time around, while I knew she loved Ben with all her being, I completely understood her reservations on moving forward with him after what she found out. Ben is a loving man with a strong personality and an old around alpha male. He loves Layla but he will need to give in certain things as well to understand that Layla is not a woman who will be following his orders like the guys around the precinct.
Brenda leads you through the story with a fluidity that makes you live and enjoy the story along with the characters. I love that she brought their stories full circle, and also the fact that even though some of the things they dealt with were serious issues, she made it easier for the reader to stay on top of the story. I would recommend that you read the first two books of this series before you read this one but I’ll promise it will be worth it. I can’t wait to see what Brenda comes out with next, I’m a fan for life…
March 20, 2014
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Brenda Rothert’s Now series is one of those fantastic indie author series that I wish more people knew about. I don’t know that I would have ever learned about it if not for signing up to do the tour for Now and Then, but I’m glad I did, because I hate to think what I’d be missing if I hadn’t.
Now and Forever brings this fantastic series to a satisfying close, but not before putting the characters… and the reader… through some serious emotional turmoil first. All of my Now series favorites are in this book and that was, perhaps, my favorite part. The obstacles each couple faces are many and varied and I’m not going to tell you what they are for fear of spoiling this experience for you. This book is sometimes sexy, often romantic and always amazing. At just over 200 pages, it was a quick read that made me laugh and cry. It definitely did justice to the characters and their stories and I think any fan of the series will be happy to see where life has taken Emma, Cole, Layla and Ben.
I wasn’t the biggest fan of Layla in the first book, but she grew nicely in the second and has really come into her own in this book. Ben, as always, is alpha, protective and stubborn as hell, but I mean that all in the best way possible. Emma frustrated me some in this book, but only early on and her actions were understandable, even if they did make me want to tear my hair out. Cole… my beloved Cole. He has the toughest time of all the characters in this book and my heart ached for him. Brenda made me fall in love with each of these characters all over again in Now and Forever.
This book was incredibly satisfying to me. I only wish it had been a little bit longer. Not because it ended oddly or because it felt rushed – it didn’t – but because I’m greedy and I adore these characters and I want more. :)
I received a copy of this book from the author in exchange for an honest review.
Brenda Rothert’s Now series is one of those fantastic indie author series that I wish more people knew about. I don’t know that I would have ever learned about it if not for signing up to do the tour for Now and Then, but I’m glad I did, because I hate to think what I’d be missing if I hadn’t.
Now and Forever brings this fantastic series to a satisfying close, but not before putting the characters… and the reader… through some serious emotional turmoil first. All of my Now series favorites are in this book and that was, perhaps, my favorite part. The obstacles each couple faces are many and varied and I’m not going to tell you what they are for fear of spoiling this experience for you. This book is sometimes sexy, often romantic and always amazing. At just over 200 pages, it was a quick read that made me laugh and cry. It definitely did justice to the characters and their stories and I think any fan of the series will be happy to see where life has taken Emma, Cole, Layla and Ben.
I wasn’t the biggest fan of Layla in the first book, but she grew nicely in the second and has really come into her own in this book. Ben, as always, is alpha, protective and stubborn as hell, but I mean that all in the best way possible. Emma frustrated me some in this book, but only early on and her actions were understandable, even if they did make me want to tear my hair out. Cole… my beloved Cole. He has the toughest time of all the characters in this book and my heart ached for him. Brenda made me fall in love with each of these characters all over again in Now and Forever.
This book was incredibly satisfying to me. I only wish it had been a little bit longer. Not because it ended oddly or because it felt rushed – it didn’t – but because I’m greedy and I adore these characters and I want more. :)
I received a copy of this book from the author in exchange for an honest review.
March 20, 2014
Now and Forever is an amazing can I just say amazing conclusion to the two most craziest couples I have ever read about. Lord when I started on this journey all I could think about was jumping in the book and killing Layla. Layla was a selfish self centered biatch that needed to take down a few notches. She treated her sister like crap and walked all over everyone. Layla was a nasty piece of work but then Brenda did something to me that few authors have ever done she made me feel bad for Layla and I did not want to but I did. As for my favorite sister Emma she is my girl. She had to be tough and learn to stand up for herself and she had to decide she was going to go after what she wanted and who she wanted even if her sister hated her in the end.
Emma and Cole have come so far in their relationship but their relationship is put to the yest one more time and Emma will have to decide whether or not she is going to give her heart to Cole once and for all or will she back pedal and protect herself from being hurt again? Cole is going through something at work and all he wants to do is clear his name and move on with the love of his life. But Cole is scared that Emma will not move past her pain and hurts and he is afraid he will lose the love of his life. Will Emma break the walls down and let Cole in totally?
Layla is a hard arse and she wants what she wants no matter what. She has Ben and he loves her and he is the ultimate alpha but he knows he is in for a war with Layla because she is so head strong. The one thing I love about Ben is that he knows what he wants and he is willing to work to keep it. Ben and Layla have their ups and downs but at the end of the day Layla will have to decide is it worth it to give your heart over to the one you love and surrender your crazy alpha female tendencies to have that one shot at true love?
This is a must read series that will leave you breathless. You will need some tissues for some parts and then get out your drinks because there are parts that drove me to drink.... tehehehe
Emma and Cole have come so far in their relationship but their relationship is put to the yest one more time and Emma will have to decide whether or not she is going to give her heart to Cole once and for all or will she back pedal and protect herself from being hurt again? Cole is going through something at work and all he wants to do is clear his name and move on with the love of his life. But Cole is scared that Emma will not move past her pain and hurts and he is afraid he will lose the love of his life. Will Emma break the walls down and let Cole in totally?
Layla is a hard arse and she wants what she wants no matter what. She has Ben and he loves her and he is the ultimate alpha but he knows he is in for a war with Layla because she is so head strong. The one thing I love about Ben is that he knows what he wants and he is willing to work to keep it. Ben and Layla have their ups and downs but at the end of the day Layla will have to decide is it worth it to give your heart over to the one you love and surrender your crazy alpha female tendencies to have that one shot at true love?
This is a must read series that will leave you breathless. You will need some tissues for some parts and then get out your drinks because there are parts that drove me to drink.... tehehehe
May 21, 2015
5 Beautifully Wrapped Up Stars
TITLE~ Now and Forever (Now #3)
AUTHOR~ Brenda Rothert
GENRE~ Romance
DATE PUB.~ March 9th 2014
COST/PURCHASED~ ARC
MY RATING~ 5
MY THOUGHTS~ I received an arc for review.
This third and final book in Brenda Rothert's Now series is a beautiful addition to the series that wraps it all up so nicely. I really enjoyed this book. A lot of times I think I build up a "final" book of a series in my mind to the point that I am disappointed when it doesn't quite measure up to my expectations once I read it. This was NOT the case with Now & Forever! Brenda Rothert did an excellent job of weaving the stories of both couples together and fully told both their stories. I am very impressed with how smoothly she did this.
The only thing I didn't like was that we didn't get to hear Emma & Cole's POV on one particular big event in the book. Making up for it though, they did get their own special POV scene on another equally big event later on. If you've read this, you probably know what I'm talking about. If not, READ READ READ this book! I hate to post spoilers, so I will leave this where it's at and stay vague!
Overall, this book was amazing and as I said, Brenda Rothert really wrapped up the series and both couples' story beautifully. I never expect anything less from this author. She really is an amazing writer. This book, as well as all the others of hers that I've read, was very well written, well thought out, the characters were well described and made you feel like you knew them, and she really never disappoints! I can't wait for her next new book!
TITLE~ Now and Forever (Now #3)
AUTHOR~ Brenda Rothert
GENRE~ Romance
DATE PUB.~ March 9th 2014
COST/PURCHASED~ ARC
MY RATING~ 5
MY THOUGHTS~ I received an arc for review.
This third and final book in Brenda Rothert's Now series is a beautiful addition to the series that wraps it all up so nicely. I really enjoyed this book. A lot of times I think I build up a "final" book of a series in my mind to the point that I am disappointed when it doesn't quite measure up to my expectations once I read it. This was NOT the case with Now & Forever! Brenda Rothert did an excellent job of weaving the stories of both couples together and fully told both their stories. I am very impressed with how smoothly she did this.
The only thing I didn't like was that we didn't get to hear Emma & Cole's POV on one particular big event in the book. Making up for it though, they did get their own special POV scene on another equally big event later on. If you've read this, you probably know what I'm talking about. If not, READ READ READ this book! I hate to post spoilers, so I will leave this where it's at and stay vague!
Overall, this book was amazing and as I said, Brenda Rothert really wrapped up the series and both couples' story beautifully. I never expect anything less from this author. She really is an amazing writer. This book, as well as all the others of hers that I've read, was very well written, well thought out, the characters were well described and made you feel like you knew them, and she really never disappoints! I can't wait for her next new book!
March 18, 2014
**ARC provided by author in exchange for honest review**
This is the third installment of the Now series, it continues the story of Emma and Layla Carson and their found loves. I was glad to see that both sisters love lives were still in tact going into this installment. But that didn't mean it stayed there.
Emma and Cole started almost immediately to unravel, with an unexpected/unplanned pregnancy and a snake in Cole's office causing unforeseen legal problems. I liked the twist of who Ms. Rothert made the snake, I did not see that coming. Before we could get past that, Layla and Ben show up at the family dinner at the Carson house with news of their own. Ben has proposed and put a ring on it causing Emma and Cole to withhold their news only to have it blow up in their face later on.
Both couples despite having normally happy news continued to deal with unforeseen drama, from the unplanned pregnancy, financial issues and legal troubles for Emma and Cole. For Ben and Layla it was the Chauvinistic, and competition for Layla's attention. I was shocked at the reaction of Mr. Carson when Emma and Cole announced their pregnancy and Layla's reaction to the conversation between her dad and Ben.
This installment had a ton of drama leaving me anxious to see if either of the Carson sisters would keep their HEA.
Great job Brenda, I love all four of these characters would love to see an update later on with the Marlowe's and the Montrose's.
This is the third installment of the Now series, it continues the story of Emma and Layla Carson and their found loves. I was glad to see that both sisters love lives were still in tact going into this installment. But that didn't mean it stayed there.
Emma and Cole started almost immediately to unravel, with an unexpected/unplanned pregnancy and a snake in Cole's office causing unforeseen legal problems. I liked the twist of who Ms. Rothert made the snake, I did not see that coming. Before we could get past that, Layla and Ben show up at the family dinner at the Carson house with news of their own. Ben has proposed and put a ring on it causing Emma and Cole to withhold their news only to have it blow up in their face later on.
Both couples despite having normally happy news continued to deal with unforeseen drama, from the unplanned pregnancy, financial issues and legal troubles for Emma and Cole. For Ben and Layla it was the Chauvinistic, and competition for Layla's attention. I was shocked at the reaction of Mr. Carson when Emma and Cole announced their pregnancy and Layla's reaction to the conversation between her dad and Ben.
This installment had a ton of drama leaving me anxious to see if either of the Carson sisters would keep their HEA.
Great job Brenda, I love all four of these characters would love to see an update later on with the Marlowe's and the Montrose's.
August 30, 2015
Emma and Layla may have found the men of their dreams in Cole and Ben but perfect men don’t mean perfect life. Emma and Cole face challenges that I didn’t see coming.
Unexpected life turns, evils of others, and struggles to communicate all stare Emma and Cole straight in the face. I have to say that I was a little sad that Emma never returns to her art. Although I enjoyed the challenges of the bakery and the direction the story took. It definitely showed a different side of Cole that wasn’t attractive.
Layla and Ben face challenges of a different sort, assumptions of future desires for lifestyles being a major hang up for this couple. Together less than a year, they know they love each other but is that enough when they have differing ideas of their future.
I enjoyed this book but not as much as book 2. The first half of this book was a pretty easy read but the second half was jumping back and forth between the couples every few paragraphs. Some of those transitions weren’t as smooth as they could have been. I would recommend the book because it’s a good read but you will need to have read books 1 & 2 to really appreciate the path that these two couples have traveled.
Unexpected life turns, evils of others, and struggles to communicate all stare Emma and Cole straight in the face. I have to say that I was a little sad that Emma never returns to her art. Although I enjoyed the challenges of the bakery and the direction the story took. It definitely showed a different side of Cole that wasn’t attractive.
Layla and Ben face challenges of a different sort, assumptions of future desires for lifestyles being a major hang up for this couple. Together less than a year, they know they love each other but is that enough when they have differing ideas of their future.
I enjoyed this book but not as much as book 2. The first half of this book was a pretty easy read but the second half was jumping back and forth between the couples every few paragraphs. Some of those transitions weren’t as smooth as they could have been. I would recommend the book because it’s a good read but you will need to have read books 1 & 2 to really appreciate the path that these two couples have traveled.
March 22, 2014
Now and Forever is the 3rd book in the Now series. It is also the final book. It wraps up the series in a cute way. There was drama, love, weddings, babies, and surprises. In the first two books you were introduced to Emma and Cole and then to Layla and Ben. This books puts a pretty bow on both couples and where the end up. Although, it is not all sunshine and roses right away.
I don't want to give away this book, because if you haven't read the first two, you might not want to know what happens in the third. But there is some high drama in book 3. Both couples endure some obstacles that test their relationships in a huge way. Watching them deal with their obstacles, will keep you engrossed in this book. Also, the relationship between Layla and Emma has changed and is becoming closer. It is nice to see the sisters become closer and actually turn to each other for help. Like true sisters.
If you are a fan of this series, you will love how this third book ends. It will leaves fans of the series happy and satisfied. I know I was.
I don't want to give away this book, because if you haven't read the first two, you might not want to know what happens in the third. But there is some high drama in book 3. Both couples endure some obstacles that test their relationships in a huge way. Watching them deal with their obstacles, will keep you engrossed in this book. Also, the relationship between Layla and Emma has changed and is becoming closer. It is nice to see the sisters become closer and actually turn to each other for help. Like true sisters.
If you are a fan of this series, you will love how this third book ends. It will leaves fans of the series happy and satisfied. I know I was.
August 13, 2014
What a finish to an Amazing Trilogy - Beautifully written.
Read the series in order to get the full effect.
Book 1 Now & Then is Emma & Cole's story.. after a decade of wanting Cole her dreams finally come to life in this story. You will also meet Em's sister Layla the Power Hungry Lawyer.
Book 2 Now & Again is Layla & Ben's story.. After 7 months of no men and concentrating on herself and her career Layla meets Police Sergeant Ben and is drawn to this 6'5 hunk of hotness.. Very Alpha
Book 3 Now & Forever is the continuation of both couples relationship, struggles, marriage and family. I wasn't sure either couple were going to survive their struggles intact but the author spun a tale so beautifully that each couple overcame adversity and found their HEA.
For 3 days I have done NOTHING... I was consumed by these stories and the character in them.. I could not put my Nook down.. I had to know..
Beautifully written.. I will definitely be checking out other books by this author.. This was my first time reading this author and I must say she just made it to my favorites list..
Read the series in order to get the full effect.
Book 1 Now & Then is Emma & Cole's story.. after a decade of wanting Cole her dreams finally come to life in this story. You will also meet Em's sister Layla the Power Hungry Lawyer.
Book 2 Now & Again is Layla & Ben's story.. After 7 months of no men and concentrating on herself and her career Layla meets Police Sergeant Ben and is drawn to this 6'5 hunk of hotness.. Very Alpha
Book 3 Now & Forever is the continuation of both couples relationship, struggles, marriage and family. I wasn't sure either couple were going to survive their struggles intact but the author spun a tale so beautifully that each couple overcame adversity and found their HEA.
For 3 days I have done NOTHING... I was consumed by these stories and the character in them.. I could not put my Nook down.. I had to know..
Beautifully written.. I will definitely be checking out other books by this author.. This was my first time reading this author and I must say she just made it to my favorites list..
September 13, 2016
I love this whole series!!!! I BIG RED HEART Brenda Rothert!!!! I know I've said this many times but this has to be one of my top favorite series!!!
Brenda has made me fall in love with Emma and Cole. Has made me hate Layla and then make me cheer her on. How she does it??? I'm not sure. She gets in my brain and makes me want to learn more about these characters.
Now and Forever is the third book to this series and I love how she combined Emma/Cole and Layla/Ben's stories. I love a little drama in every story and she added that too for me ;) For me this book has all that I look for in a book.
**Thank you Brenda for sending me the ARC of this book!!**
Brenda has made me fall in love with Emma and Cole. Has made me hate Layla and then make me cheer her on. How she does it??? I'm not sure. She gets in my brain and makes me want to learn more about these characters.
Now and Forever is the third book to this series and I love how she combined Emma/Cole and Layla/Ben's stories. I love a little drama in every story and she added that too for me ;) For me this book has all that I look for in a book.
**Thank you Brenda for sending me the ARC of this book!!**
March 16, 2014
I loved how Brenda Rothert wrapped up this series. The book had a bit of suspense in it which I enjoyed so much. Ben and Layla are like fire and ice with such fun and sexy chemistry. Emma's emotions were on a roller coaster and Cole's response made you love him even more. I loved how the characters were portrayed throughout the three books and I will miss reading about them. It is always like that with good books because you never want the book to end! Another great book that the reader will not be disappointed. Click and download today!
May 1, 2016
It was insane! I loved all three books and I literally can't put it down! I finished all three books in three days. Anyway, the book was great and my theories of how they would end up was like a zig zag road. I wish that the wedding part (SPOILER ALERT) would've been a constant exchange of thoughts of Layla's and Emma's because it was both their day and the narration was mostly fixed on Layla's. And also, I think it needed a little more about the family during the wedding getaway. But still it was beautiful and I loved it.
March 11, 2014
Loved it! I could not wait for this book to come out and it did not disappoint! This book is the perfect conclusion to the Now series. I love how the characters have evolved through all 3 books - they are really well developed characters and I'm sad this is the last book with them. This was my favorite book out of this series - it had a little drama and suspense but it wasn't overly done. I really enjoyed this book and I highly recommend this whole series.
March 29, 2014
The author did a great job wrapping up the series with this final book. Both sisters may have found their happily ever after with their guys, Cole and Ben but things were never smooth sailing. Their relationships were tested where extraneous factors derailed and put pressure on their relationships. Situations and beliefs that tested the love they have for their guys. I enjoyed reading the distinctly different personalities of the two sisters and the two men who were crazy in love with them.
August 30, 2014
I really enjoyed this book. I was happy to see that Emma's older sister, Layla, had transformed to a loving and supportive sister and their relationship in this book (as opposed to in the 1st book of the series) had become more genuine and much less high school-ish and back-stabbing. Emma is such a warm and grounded character, who I connected with, who deserved more than the likes of her sister.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
April 2, 2014
I have loved this series from the start.Emma and Cole stole my heart but Layla and Ben are still my favorite. Even though they all go thru hard times they wind up together and who doesnt love a HEA. I know I do. I am now a BIG fan of Brenda's and cant wait for what comes next....Great read and great characters.
April 14, 2014
Now and forever
oh my!! a lot of drama allot of tears and great felt moments I loved the book of course my all time favorite is Emma and Cole but her sister is a close second maybe because I read Emma story first who knows anyways loved the story of both couples in this book the challenges the love and struggles great book
oh my!! a lot of drama allot of tears and great felt moments I loved the book of course my all time favorite is Emma and Cole but her sister is a close second maybe because I read Emma story first who knows anyways loved the story of both couples in this book the challenges the love and struggles great book
March 11, 2014
This is the 3rd in the series. Its Emma and Cole, and Layla and Ben's ups and downs. Emma and Cole have to struggle to stay together, while Layla and Ben fight over what they want to stay together. This is another smash for Brenda!!!
March 19, 2014
ARC Review This book has two couples who deal with old fashion values that don't go as planned. This realistic telling of how relationships may not always be perfect and full of potholes can be worth the fight.
August 4, 2016
A great ending to a story of Emma and Cole/Layla and Ben. I completely adored reading about the honest struggles and road blocks these two couples survived. It is refreshing to read romance that is real yet comes with a happy ever after. Keep writing, Ms. Rothert!
June 17, 2014
Simply Amazing!!!
this is the first time I commented on a book and I just had to comment on this one! This was soon amazing and touching... the two previous books was also great, this author is great at what she does keep it up!!
this is the first time I commented on a book and I just had to comment on this one! This was soon amazing and touching... the two previous books was also great, this author is great at what she does keep it up!!
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