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Winter Blues
Winter Blues is not a story of a love beginning, but a love surviving. It’s a story of imperfections and frustrations. A story that’s rarely told but often lived. A sometimes unpretty story, but then real stories normally are...
Away from all that they know, all that brought them together, Darlene and Reid find the only troubles their marriage has ever faced in their new home of Chicago. They find a test of loyalties, of strength, of love, when all that they expected to find was their happy ever after.
Where Reid finds their new life a breeze, Darlene finds it a storm. Reid powers ahead in his new publishing job, reveling in his success while he fails at home. Darlene is jobless, friendless, and increasingly Reid-less; trapped in a perpetual winter when all she craves is the warmth she’s grown accustomed to.
She finds comfort in music that has been such a huge part of her life, eventually performing at a local bar and striking up a friendship with its owner. That friendship threatens to expand into something more when everything Darlene is lacking in their marriage is offered to her in the form of the irresistible Blue.
Will she deny the consequences and accept him? Or will Reid fight the odds and find a way to recharge their relationship?
Happy ever afters are for fairytales...
Away from all that they know, all that brought them together, Darlene and Reid find the only troubles their marriage has ever faced in their new home of Chicago. They find a test of loyalties, of strength, of love, when all that they expected to find was their happy ever after.
Where Reid finds their new life a breeze, Darlene finds it a storm. Reid powers ahead in his new publishing job, reveling in his success while he fails at home. Darlene is jobless, friendless, and increasingly Reid-less; trapped in a perpetual winter when all she craves is the warmth she’s grown accustomed to.
She finds comfort in music that has been such a huge part of her life, eventually performing at a local bar and striking up a friendship with its owner. That friendship threatens to expand into something more when everything Darlene is lacking in their marriage is offered to her in the form of the irresistible Blue.
Will she deny the consequences and accept him? Or will Reid fight the odds and find a way to recharge their relationship?
Happy ever afters are for fairytales...
Unknown Binding
First published November 1, 2013
10 people are currently reading
471 people want to read
About the author
Jade Goodmore
3 books52 followersI'm an unashamed dreamer who has rooted deep and found the balls to try and cut it as an indie author.
If I'm not writing I'm reading and always looking for THAT book. I welcome any recommendations, in fact, I insist!
Occasionally, I venture out of my book cave and be a mum to two gorgeous but devilish boys, and housewife to my devilish but gorgeous partner.
If you want to get in touch you can catch me either on here, my twitter with the address somewhere below, my blog which I think is detailed here, or my facebook page - facebook.com/jadegoodmore
Thank you for even looking thus far!
If I'm not writing I'm reading and always looking for THAT book. I welcome any recommendations, in fact, I insist!
Occasionally, I venture out of my book cave and be a mum to two gorgeous but devilish boys, and housewife to my devilish but gorgeous partner.
If you want to get in touch you can catch me either on here, my twitter with the address somewhere below, my blog which I think is detailed here, or my facebook page - facebook.com/jadegoodmore
Thank you for even looking thus far!
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 39 reviews
April 5, 2017
4 ★'s
"I hate what you did, but what if your actions saved us? It's like we've been recharged."
So another cheating book, of course, I just can't seem to stay away although TBH, this isn't exactly my favorite type of cheating. However, if you're looking for angsty and don't mind cheating, then you certainly need to read this.
Reid and Darlene have been together for seven years but have recently moved to Chicago from the LA area for Reid's career. Darlene is a music teacher and coming in after the start of the school year has left her without a job and she finds herself in a rut.
Reid is waaayyyy too busy with his career to notice Darlene's struggles but it becomes painfully obvious from the beginning of the book. This was one of my issues with the story because Reid is one sharp cookie...how could he not have noticed? ~Sigh~
Darlene comes across a bar on the way home that has open mic night and decides to give it a go...and we all know where this is going to go.
Blue provides all the attention that a starving Darlene needs and more...she just can't see it at first. It's easy to see the problems when you can be objective. I was surprised at how fast she saw through things.
On the other hand, I'm not sure how I feel about how Reid handled things. Don't get me wrong, I loved all the things he did for Darlene...it's just what he didn't tell her that concerned me. But it certainly made things interesting in the end.
And I loved how that came together, even if it had me a bit worried. The whole full circle thing was quite clever too.
"I hate what you did, but what if your actions saved us? It's like we've been recharged."
So another cheating book, of course, I just can't seem to stay away although TBH, this isn't exactly my favorite type of cheating. However, if you're looking for angsty and don't mind cheating, then you certainly need to read this.
Reid and Darlene have been together for seven years but have recently moved to Chicago from the LA area for Reid's career. Darlene is a music teacher and coming in after the start of the school year has left her without a job and she finds herself in a rut.
Reid is waaayyyy too busy with his career to notice Darlene's struggles but it becomes painfully obvious from the beginning of the book. This was one of my issues with the story because Reid is one sharp cookie...how could he not have noticed? ~Sigh~
Darlene comes across a bar on the way home that has open mic night and decides to give it a go...and we all know where this is going to go.
Blue provides all the attention that a starving Darlene needs and more...she just can't see it at first. It's easy to see the problems when you can be objective. I was surprised at how fast she saw through things.
On the other hand, I'm not sure how I feel about how Reid handled things. Don't get me wrong, I loved all the things he did for Darlene...it's just what he didn't tell her that concerned me. But it certainly made things interesting in the end.
And I loved how that came together, even if it had me a bit worried. The whole full circle thing was quite clever too.
December 2, 2013
Whew! To quote cliche romance books, I just released a breath I didn't realize I was holding. Hehe
But seriously - I LOVE THIS BOOK. A lot. Many people will compare it to Arsen. And I suppose in a way, they're alike. Both women are unhappy in their marriages, but for vastly different reasons. And, as everyone knows, I never liked Cathy once the crap hit the fan. Thankfully, Darlene redeemed herself in Winter Blues. That alone is different. There are many more differences as well - namely that of the "other man".
The story begins a few months into a big move for the married couple, Darlene and Reid. They packed up and moved from California to Chicago (woot, woot!) and Darlene is having a hard time adjusting. With no job and no friends she is basically stuck indoors awaiting the daily return of her husband. Sounds like a problem, right? For Darlene it is. She's always been fiercely independent and now feels as though she isn't the same person. So initially it's easy to understand how miserable she must be. The key word: initially. One thing about books with an unhappy partner that will ALWAYS drive me crazy is the lack of communication. Of course it does happen in real life, but it's still absolutely frustrating to watch someone prepare to destroy another human being.
Anyway, we witness the steady FURTHER decline of Reid and Darlene's marriage. I forgot to mention above that Darl (her book nickname) is also quite the singer - she grew up with parents in a band and even sang with them for awhile. (This was actually how she and Reid met.)
She comes across a blues club and now comes the waiting period. Because you know what's going to happen. It's inevitable. And whose fault is it? The club owner, Blue? Douche. Darlene, miserable wife? Wretch. Reid, the hardworking, supportive husband? *le sigh* To be honest, it's a mixture of all three. Yes, Darlene is selfish often. However, I also could understand her issues (AT TIMES). There were many times when Reid was so focused on his work that you wanted to strangle him in order to open his eyes to what was bound to happen. The guy did try, though. I just felt like Darlene made it harder than she had to! Example:
"Regardless of what they were meant to be they were obviously a last minute thought. There's no denying flowers that have been purchased at a gas station. I guess it's the thought that counts."
SO FREAKING WHAT???? It was this moment when I didn't think I'd ever be able to like Darlene again. He is trying. And maybe it's not an expensive bouquet from a high-end florist, but dammit! Cut him some slack. He works himself to the bone in order to support them and she comes off as completely ungrateful. I may or may not have growled.
Then there's Blue. I hate him. There was never a point in the book that I actually liked or felt sorry for him. From the start of things he is trouble. For me it wasn't in a sexy, "OMG, I hope they sleep together!" way. No. For me it was a, "Ugh, are you kidding me? You're gonna fall for this d bag?" way. I'm sure everyone thinks I'm being too harsh. I wish that was the case. Want an example? After allowing Darlene to drink and refusing her money, she makes a comment that she'll have to pay for all of her drinks at some point. His response? Oh wait - this is a gem.
"Oh, you will, eventually."
And for that matter, just put your entire bank account in that jar. TOOL!! Some may find it cute or sexy or confident. I find it despicable especially since he KNOWS she's married. He goes out of his way to continually pursue her. He fully admits to not caring that she's married. I know what everyone is thinking. She's just as much at fault as good ole Blue. I agree. And if Reid had done a few things differently, perhaps this wouldn't have gone down the way it did. Nah, I doubt that's the case. Darlene was on a one-way track headed to
and there was no stopping her.
Winter Blues is written from both points of view. This was brilliant because I feel like you always need to hear both sides in a story of this magnitude. You'll like then hate then be okay with Darlene. You'll fall in love with Reid, pity him, and wish him all the happiness. You'll hopefully hate Blue with the fire of a thousand suns.
I enjoyed the ending, even if I felt I was left hanging a bit. I did truly enjoy this book, though, regardless of all the face-punching I wanted to do while reading it.
But seriously - I LOVE THIS BOOK. A lot. Many people will compare it to Arsen. And I suppose in a way, they're alike. Both women are unhappy in their marriages, but for vastly different reasons. And, as everyone knows, I never liked Cathy once the crap hit the fan. Thankfully, Darlene redeemed herself in Winter Blues. That alone is different. There are many more differences as well - namely that of the "other man".
The story begins a few months into a big move for the married couple, Darlene and Reid. They packed up and moved from California to Chicago (woot, woot!) and Darlene is having a hard time adjusting. With no job and no friends she is basically stuck indoors awaiting the daily return of her husband. Sounds like a problem, right? For Darlene it is. She's always been fiercely independent and now feels as though she isn't the same person. So initially it's easy to understand how miserable she must be. The key word: initially. One thing about books with an unhappy partner that will ALWAYS drive me crazy is the lack of communication. Of course it does happen in real life, but it's still absolutely frustrating to watch someone prepare to destroy another human being.
Anyway, we witness the steady FURTHER decline of Reid and Darlene's marriage. I forgot to mention above that Darl (her book nickname) is also quite the singer - she grew up with parents in a band and even sang with them for awhile. (This was actually how she and Reid met.)
She comes across a blues club and now comes the waiting period. Because you know what's going to happen. It's inevitable. And whose fault is it? The club owner, Blue? Douche. Darlene, miserable wife? Wretch. Reid, the hardworking, supportive husband? *le sigh* To be honest, it's a mixture of all three. Yes, Darlene is selfish often. However, I also could understand her issues (AT TIMES). There were many times when Reid was so focused on his work that you wanted to strangle him in order to open his eyes to what was bound to happen. The guy did try, though. I just felt like Darlene made it harder than she had to! Example:
"Regardless of what they were meant to be they were obviously a last minute thought. There's no denying flowers that have been purchased at a gas station. I guess it's the thought that counts."
SO FREAKING WHAT???? It was this moment when I didn't think I'd ever be able to like Darlene again. He is trying. And maybe it's not an expensive bouquet from a high-end florist, but dammit! Cut him some slack. He works himself to the bone in order to support them and she comes off as completely ungrateful. I may or may not have growled.
Then there's Blue. I hate him. There was never a point in the book that I actually liked or felt sorry for him. From the start of things he is trouble. For me it wasn't in a sexy, "OMG, I hope they sleep together!" way. No. For me it was a, "Ugh, are you kidding me? You're gonna fall for this d bag?" way. I'm sure everyone thinks I'm being too harsh. I wish that was the case. Want an example? After allowing Darlene to drink and refusing her money, she makes a comment that she'll have to pay for all of her drinks at some point. His response? Oh wait - this is a gem.
"Oh, you will, eventually."
And for that matter, just put your entire bank account in that jar. TOOL!! Some may find it cute or sexy or confident. I find it despicable especially since he KNOWS she's married. He goes out of his way to continually pursue her. He fully admits to not caring that she's married. I know what everyone is thinking. She's just as much at fault as good ole Blue. I agree. And if Reid had done a few things differently, perhaps this wouldn't have gone down the way it did. Nah, I doubt that's the case. Darlene was on a one-way track headed to
and there was no stopping her.
Winter Blues is written from both points of view. This was brilliant because I feel like you always need to hear both sides in a story of this magnitude. You'll like then hate then be okay with Darlene. You'll fall in love with Reid, pity him, and wish him all the happiness. You'll hopefully hate Blue with the fire of a thousand suns.
I enjoyed the ending, even if I felt I was left hanging a bit. I did truly enjoy this book, though, regardless of all the face-punching I wanted to do while reading it.
May 31, 2014
Love is easy, marriage is hard, but trust? Trust is the hardest.’
Jenny: I think I read Winter Blues through gritted teeth a lot of the time. Oh don’t get me wrong, I think the author did a splendid job of bringing Darlene and Reids story to life and she certainly put me through my paces as I experienced moments of anger, annoyance, frustration and angst aplenty where I continually found myself shouting at my Kindle for these to communicate!
“….Because I miss us”
Jade Goodmore delivered a well written story that elicited some strong emotions and tested my resolve where we meet two people experiencing difficulties in their marriage after relocating to Chicago. I felt the contempt, misery and neglect experienced by Darlene and Reid, but their actions so frustrated me and Darlene tested my every nerve. I found I couldn’t relate to her at all and I think my dislike of her affected how I felt about the story.
Gitte: Yeah, I can’t actually say I enjoyed reading this story all that much, such was the strength of my emotions and frustrations. Don’t get me wrong, it was very well written, the emotional aspects were brilliant and I just could not put it down.
‘To feel loved is the richest feeling in the world, but when that love is taken away it takes much more than it ever gave.’
However, I really didn’t like the heroine Darlene at all. I was pretty pissed off whilst reading this story from beginning till end, I have to say. Now, this is not because I have a problem with the subject nor the consequence of a troublesome neglected marriage. No, Darlene’s behaviour was incredibly defeatist, selfish and quite frankly childish at times. That coupled with Reid’s non-communicative ways it was a recipe for marital disaster really. Though, I will say that Reid was a brilliantly written character despite his inability to communicate. So, it was a real shame the heroine was so unlikeable as she quite frankly just gave up at the first marital hurdle, enjoyed a side-order of infidelity then passed the blame when confronted by the truth.
‘…love is tainted with the hurt…’
Saying this, I do actually have to give Jade Goodmore props because I just couldn’t put this book down, I had to read on till the end to see what happened next! This is one of those times where I’m conflicted as to whether a book is really good because of how strong my emotions were from the brilliant writing or whether it just wasn’t for me because of my intense dislike for the heroine? I honestly don’t know, Jenny!
Jenny: It was evident from the outset that despite being in a rut and despite the hurt, impatience and condescending tones they took with one another, Darlene and Reid were in love. But a marriage without nurturing and attention will most certainly suffer the consequences.
“We’re falling in love again.” “I already love you.” “Not enough.”
Whilst I understood and initially (and I say initially because that soon waned) and sympathised with Darlene’s feelings of despair and loneliness that soon changed as her decisions became calculated and selfish. Instead of working through their problems, she chose to do what was best for her as opposed what was best for their marriage and she grated on my every nerve and I disliked her immensely!
‘I’ve mentally put the space between us and I want to fun back. I will do anything but it feels impossible, because I don’t belong here.’
My sympathies did lie with Reid through Winter Blues, but towards the end, I felt his stance and the way he went about repairing their marriage only exacerbated the situation.
“I’m going to show you every day, in one way or the other, that I love you.”
Like you Gitte, my feelings for Winter Blues are conflicted. This was definitely a well written story that I couldn’t put down, but I too feel my enjoyment of the story was hindered by my dislike of the heroine. Fans of love triangles, who love their stories with plenty of angst in their stories will enjoy this one.
**ARC provided by author in exchange for an honest review**
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December 3, 2013
I found myself attached to this book from the beginning. This story is different from a lot of books i've read.
The choices you make when all you want is someone to love you.The attention you will do anything to get can persuade you to make some bad decisions. Well Darlene makes those bad decisions. Oh lord that woman drove me insane. She's right up there with Kiera (Thoughtless Series). I really wanted to reach in and shake her at times.
Darlene and Reid's marriage is a roller coaster of mistakes and lies. Work takes all of Reid's time which leaves Darlene with nothing to do in this new city. Moving from LA to Chicago is a big change. She knows no one. Growing up around Music she luckly finds a local bar that hosts open mic nights. She starts spending more time there and meets new people. Drinking, singing and dancing she finally feels like she is a part of something. She's getting all the right attention in the wrong place. She finds Blue. Oh yummy Blue. Oh the things...(get it together woman!) Sorry, daydreaming took over. Anyways, Darlene finds herself making bad decisions after bad decisions. There are temptations out there. Question is, do you act on them? Do you ever ask yourself that? Anywho, Things get hot! Then they get messy.
I feel like i'm rambling but I don't know what else to say but go read it. Jade knows how to keep you glued. You will want to crawl into the book like I wanted to. Oh and the piano scene! That's one of the moments I wish I was in Darlene's shoes. A sexy man singing to you will make any woman melt. I don't care who you are. This story tugged at my heart strings at times. I found myself really thinking what if? Oh Jade girl you are good. Thanks for giving me the opportunity to read and review this. Hopefully everyone who reads this goes and buys your book. If you are a reader and a lover of good love stories like me and decide to read this please email me and let me know what you think. I would love to see if anyone feels like me after reading Winter Blues.
Happy Reading!
The choices you make when all you want is someone to love you.The attention you will do anything to get can persuade you to make some bad decisions. Well Darlene makes those bad decisions. Oh lord that woman drove me insane. She's right up there with Kiera (Thoughtless Series). I really wanted to reach in and shake her at times.
Darlene and Reid's marriage is a roller coaster of mistakes and lies. Work takes all of Reid's time which leaves Darlene with nothing to do in this new city. Moving from LA to Chicago is a big change. She knows no one. Growing up around Music she luckly finds a local bar that hosts open mic nights. She starts spending more time there and meets new people. Drinking, singing and dancing she finally feels like she is a part of something. She's getting all the right attention in the wrong place. She finds Blue. Oh yummy Blue. Oh the things...(get it together woman!) Sorry, daydreaming took over. Anyways, Darlene finds herself making bad decisions after bad decisions. There are temptations out there. Question is, do you act on them? Do you ever ask yourself that? Anywho, Things get hot! Then they get messy.
I feel like i'm rambling but I don't know what else to say but go read it. Jade knows how to keep you glued. You will want to crawl into the book like I wanted to. Oh and the piano scene! That's one of the moments I wish I was in Darlene's shoes. A sexy man singing to you will make any woman melt. I don't care who you are. This story tugged at my heart strings at times. I found myself really thinking what if? Oh Jade girl you are good. Thanks for giving me the opportunity to read and review this. Hopefully everyone who reads this goes and buys your book. If you are a reader and a lover of good love stories like me and decide to read this please email me and let me know what you think. I would love to see if anyone feels like me after reading Winter Blues.
Happy Reading!
February 1, 2014
She hasn't been herself for so long, and in turn, neither have I. My anchor is lost and I am finding myself adrift." - Reid
I'm really struggling with my review of this book. I started off loving it, like REALLY LOVING it but as the story progressed I became more and more conflicted about it. I enjoyed the writing, so, so much. Jade's talent is obvious but my disdain for Darlene, the heroine of the story, aw crap, I can't even call her that, the main female in the story .... after a while, I just couldn't stomach her.
Darlene and Reid's marriage is in trouble. The great thing about this book is that it's told from both points of view so it is clear they share the blame. And the worst part is that they NEVER talk about it. Oh look .... our failing marriage .... it's the elephant in the room we'll just ignore until one of us does something really stupid. Which one of them does. And it just goes downhill from there.
It's difficult to review this book without giving anything away and I don't want to do that .... spoilers suck. Besides, experiencing the evolution of Reid and Darlene's story first hand is a wonderful thing, even if the story itself pisses you off (which it very much did me). Do I wish Darlene wasn't such a selfish witch? OMGosh, YES!!!! Do I wish Reid would've grown some balls when it came to Darlene? YES!!!!!!
In the end, the story ended how I had hoped it would and I was still not happy. I'm not sure how that even happens. A big part of me wants to slam this book because it left a very bad taste in my mouth but that wouldn't be just. You see, the fact that I couldn't stop reading this book .... the fact that I hated every last minute of it yet I still could not turn my back on it shows just how good it really is.
I'm really struggling with my review of this book. I started off loving it, like REALLY LOVING it but as the story progressed I became more and more conflicted about it. I enjoyed the writing, so, so much. Jade's talent is obvious but my disdain for Darlene, the heroine of the story, aw crap, I can't even call her that, the main female in the story .... after a while, I just couldn't stomach her.
Darlene and Reid's marriage is in trouble. The great thing about this book is that it's told from both points of view so it is clear they share the blame. And the worst part is that they NEVER talk about it. Oh look .... our failing marriage .... it's the elephant in the room we'll just ignore until one of us does something really stupid. Which one of them does. And it just goes downhill from there.
It's difficult to review this book without giving anything away and I don't want to do that .... spoilers suck. Besides, experiencing the evolution of Reid and Darlene's story first hand is a wonderful thing, even if the story itself pisses you off (which it very much did me). Do I wish Darlene wasn't such a selfish witch? OMGosh, YES!!!! Do I wish Reid would've grown some balls when it came to Darlene? YES!!!!!!
In the end, the story ended how I had hoped it would and I was still not happy. I'm not sure how that even happens. A big part of me wants to slam this book because it left a very bad taste in my mouth but that wouldn't be just. You see, the fact that I couldn't stop reading this book .... the fact that I hated every last minute of it yet I still could not turn my back on it shows just how good it really is.
February 21, 2014
OMG! Amazing! I absolutely loved this book. I loved the characters. I loved that it was about an established couple. We didn't have to go through the meeting and falling in love. We got to go through the falling back in love. This story hits home to so many relationships. I felt this story therefore I loved this story.
Reid- He is sweet, yes he got sidetracked but he is amazing.
Darlene- Though she does "wrong" she is a perfect example of an everyday woman going through a truly hard time. I liked her.
Blue- Sexy & swoon worthy...
I honestly hope we get more of these characters because they are addicting!
Reid- He is sweet, yes he got sidetracked but he is amazing.
Darlene- Though she does "wrong" she is a perfect example of an everyday woman going through a truly hard time. I liked her.
Blue- Sexy & swoon worthy...
I honestly hope we get more of these characters because they are addicting!
December 2, 2013
I have written this review in my minds eye 1000x, but have not had the courage to actually write it - until now.
I am terrified of writing this review.
I'm scared my words won't do this story justice.
Let me start off by saying that after reading this book I literally ran to my husband hugged him and kissed him while I cried. I told him I loved him. Which I do all the time, but I just needed to be sure that he knew again that very moment. I say this jokingly but it's true, sometimes the soul needs a good cry. But this book, this book gave my soul new food. It fed my soul the renewed knowledge of ...
"Never take for granted what you have".
If we were all in college majoring in Romantic Relationships, Winter Blues, would be on the syllabus under MUST read Classroom material.
Our Professor would instruct us to dissect this story and look at it as a social experiment on a couple's marriage. The end of this marriage.
This book is a perfect example of what happens when communication, which is one of the most essential parts of a relationship, is lacking between people. The whole time I was reading this story, I felt like I was peeking into their house window. These emotions, these events were so private, so personal and so raw I almost felt wrong being a witness to all of it.
This story is about Reid and Darlene who have been married for about five years. They were college sweethearts. This young couple love each other fiercely, but are going to a tough time in their marriage. Both are feeling the affects of a move from California to Chicago. Reid has landed a great opportunity for his career and as a couple they decide to move. The problem is that Darlene has not been able to find herself in Chicago. She is struggling with feelings of unworthiness. She's use to feeling free and independent, and her jobless state in Chicago is making her feel less than what she really is. Now in Chicago, she's finding herself relying more and more on Reid's attention. The problem with this is that read it extremely busy at his job right now. He works well into the night and has to often break dates and meetings with her. She feels unloved by him and underappreciated.
This is where things in their marriage start getting out-of-control. Cue in- another man- who lavishes her with some much needed attention and it is a recipe for disaster in this marriage or is it?
Never in a million years did I ever believe I would be saying this, but I think after reading this book, I think it might be possible that an affair can save a marriage.
Yes. I said it. But hold on. Calm down. I'm not saying if your marriage is on the rocks go out and have an affair. NOT saying that. I am saying, I hope I never have to experience that, but if I do, and my marriage is worth saving, I want to be able to walk away from that situation and learn something.
One of my favorite line:
"I want to miss him and be eager to be with him. I want to treasure us like I failed to treasure us before. I want a fresh start."
I honestly believe this story is the Exception to the rule.
Once a cheater always a cheater... that's the rule.
Well, Darlene and Reid are the exception. For them, in their story, something good came out of their experience. Reid chose to love her more than he hated her. What Darlene did was the unthinkable. Reid love for her overcame that, At least, that's what I hope.
So what I'm trying to say, in a very long way, just go and read it!
Everyone needs this book in their life as a what not to do - example.
5++++ and BEYOND!!!
I am terrified of writing this review.
I'm scared my words won't do this story justice.
Let me start off by saying that after reading this book I literally ran to my husband hugged him and kissed him while I cried. I told him I loved him. Which I do all the time, but I just needed to be sure that he knew again that very moment. I say this jokingly but it's true, sometimes the soul needs a good cry. But this book, this book gave my soul new food. It fed my soul the renewed knowledge of ...
"Never take for granted what you have".
If we were all in college majoring in Romantic Relationships, Winter Blues, would be on the syllabus under MUST read Classroom material.
Our Professor would instruct us to dissect this story and look at it as a social experiment on a couple's marriage. The end of this marriage.
This book is a perfect example of what happens when communication, which is one of the most essential parts of a relationship, is lacking between people. The whole time I was reading this story, I felt like I was peeking into their house window. These emotions, these events were so private, so personal and so raw I almost felt wrong being a witness to all of it.
This story is about Reid and Darlene who have been married for about five years. They were college sweethearts. This young couple love each other fiercely, but are going to a tough time in their marriage. Both are feeling the affects of a move from California to Chicago. Reid has landed a great opportunity for his career and as a couple they decide to move. The problem is that Darlene has not been able to find herself in Chicago. She is struggling with feelings of unworthiness. She's use to feeling free and independent, and her jobless state in Chicago is making her feel less than what she really is. Now in Chicago, she's finding herself relying more and more on Reid's attention. The problem with this is that read it extremely busy at his job right now. He works well into the night and has to often break dates and meetings with her. She feels unloved by him and underappreciated.
This is where things in their marriage start getting out-of-control. Cue in- another man- who lavishes her with some much needed attention and it is a recipe for disaster in this marriage or is it?
Never in a million years did I ever believe I would be saying this, but I think after reading this book, I think it might be possible that an affair can save a marriage.
Yes. I said it. But hold on. Calm down. I'm not saying if your marriage is on the rocks go out and have an affair. NOT saying that. I am saying, I hope I never have to experience that, but if I do, and my marriage is worth saving, I want to be able to walk away from that situation and learn something.
One of my favorite line:
"I want to miss him and be eager to be with him. I want to treasure us like I failed to treasure us before. I want a fresh start."
I honestly believe this story is the Exception to the rule.
Once a cheater always a cheater... that's the rule.
Well, Darlene and Reid are the exception. For them, in their story, something good came out of their experience. Reid chose to love her more than he hated her. What Darlene did was the unthinkable. Reid love for her overcame that, At least, that's what I hope.
So what I'm trying to say, in a very long way, just go and read it!
Everyone needs this book in their life as a what not to do - example.
5++++ and BEYOND!!!
November 26, 2013
Darlene and Reid are a married couple who have recently moved to Chicago from LA due to Reid getting a great job offer. Darlene finds it hard to find work in her field, and is having a rough time making the adjustment to a new city. Reid seems to find the transition easier, but his new job is quickly turning out to be very demanding of nearly all his time and energy. As they celebrate their 5 year anniversary they each see that their relationship is almost not recognizable from what they had prior to moving. They barely speak and never touch. Both are sad and unsure of how or whether they can put things back together.
Darlene begins to find happiness as she discovers a local bar where she can reconnect with a music scene that used to be so much a part of her life, and make some friends. Her desperate loneliness and boredom is quickly replaced by her performing music and meeting Blue- the owner of the bar and fellow performer. They had an instant chemistry both physical and musical, and from the start he is offering her everything she is missing with Reid.
This story was such a pleasant surprise. It deals with issues that are very real and very difficult. There are never any clear right and wrong answers and it is rare that anyone involved in a situation similar to this one would come out unscathed. I was hooked into the emotions and connected to the characters right from the beginning. We get to experience both Darlene's and Reid's point of view and many times it was a difficult position to be in as the reader, seeing what they both wanted so badly, but weren't able to figure out. It was also really interesting to see how if we just look at a story from one point of view it would be easy to believe there was someone in the right and someone in the wrong and decide what we think should be done. I definitely still had my own opinions about choices that I did and didn't agree with, but everything was so much more challenging when you could feel things from both perspectives. I experienced a broad range of emotions while reading this, and many of the feelings very uncomfortable ones However, when a book can suck me in like that and get me questioning some pretty profound topics and analyzing things in a new way- I consider that a job well done on the part of the author. There were a couple little things that I felt were a bit over-the-top, but not so much that it took away from what was really a fresh and interesting take on some very common issues and problems. I would gladly read more by this author in the future. 4.5 stars
Darlene begins to find happiness as she discovers a local bar where she can reconnect with a music scene that used to be so much a part of her life, and make some friends. Her desperate loneliness and boredom is quickly replaced by her performing music and meeting Blue- the owner of the bar and fellow performer. They had an instant chemistry both physical and musical, and from the start he is offering her everything she is missing with Reid.
This story was such a pleasant surprise. It deals with issues that are very real and very difficult. There are never any clear right and wrong answers and it is rare that anyone involved in a situation similar to this one would come out unscathed. I was hooked into the emotions and connected to the characters right from the beginning. We get to experience both Darlene's and Reid's point of view and many times it was a difficult position to be in as the reader, seeing what they both wanted so badly, but weren't able to figure out. It was also really interesting to see how if we just look at a story from one point of view it would be easy to believe there was someone in the right and someone in the wrong and decide what we think should be done. I definitely still had my own opinions about choices that I did and didn't agree with, but everything was so much more challenging when you could feel things from both perspectives. I experienced a broad range of emotions while reading this, and many of the feelings very uncomfortable ones However, when a book can suck me in like that and get me questioning some pretty profound topics and analyzing things in a new way- I consider that a job well done on the part of the author. There were a couple little things that I felt were a bit over-the-top, but not so much that it took away from what was really a fresh and interesting take on some very common issues and problems. I would gladly read more by this author in the future. 4.5 stars
December 27, 2013
4.5 wonderful stars ***** I had the pleasure of being a beta reader for this author. What I liked about this book is that there are twists in it that you don't see coming and I had a hard time putting it down because of the emotion in it but also how real this story truly is.
The story is totally relatable and I felt for Darlene and her plight. I could see myself being her in that position. I would want for the same things that she did too. Her plight is very conceivable as a woman. Without her family and friends close, but also in a new area with just her loving husband, she is basically alone. She has nary a friend in her new surroundings and her husband, Reid, is the only person she has to turn to for support. She wants her husband to spend time with her and not be so obsessed with his burgeoning career. However, it seems like she's almost invisible to him as he continues to go through the motions but not really seeing Darlene.
However, that all changes when she decides to give her singing voice a go at a local neighborhood pub. You see, Darlene can sing well and used do some gigs in college. She loved singing and this gives her a sense of belonging and purpose! Then, she meets the panty melting Blue *swoon swoon*. He's the owner and he has many talents too!! It wasn't hard to know that Blue would be playing a part in her and Reid's story before long. There's an immediate connection between Darlene and Blue that can not be denied. Blue connects with a part of Darlene that gives her passion and fulfillment, her singing but also he wants her for himself. However, once Darlene keeps spending more time at the pub and then getting seen with Blue, unbeknown to her, he decides to fight for her love and affection all over!
This was a really great read that I thoroughly enjoyed and would highly recommend. There is many emotions in this story. You see its a roller coaster ride of sorts. So if you love a great story with angst, yearning, passion, lust and confusion then you must read it!
The story is totally relatable and I felt for Darlene and her plight. I could see myself being her in that position. I would want for the same things that she did too. Her plight is very conceivable as a woman. Without her family and friends close, but also in a new area with just her loving husband, she is basically alone. She has nary a friend in her new surroundings and her husband, Reid, is the only person she has to turn to for support. She wants her husband to spend time with her and not be so obsessed with his burgeoning career. However, it seems like she's almost invisible to him as he continues to go through the motions but not really seeing Darlene.
However, that all changes when she decides to give her singing voice a go at a local neighborhood pub. You see, Darlene can sing well and used do some gigs in college. She loved singing and this gives her a sense of belonging and purpose! Then, she meets the panty melting Blue *swoon swoon*. He's the owner and he has many talents too!! It wasn't hard to know that Blue would be playing a part in her and Reid's story before long. There's an immediate connection between Darlene and Blue that can not be denied. Blue connects with a part of Darlene that gives her passion and fulfillment, her singing but also he wants her for himself. However, once Darlene keeps spending more time at the pub and then getting seen with Blue, unbeknown to her, he decides to fight for her love and affection all over!
This was a really great read that I thoroughly enjoyed and would highly recommend. There is many emotions in this story. You see its a roller coaster ride of sorts. So if you love a great story with angst, yearning, passion, lust and confusion then you must read it!
December 28, 2013
I found myself attached to this book from the beginning. This story is different from a lot of books i've read.
The choices you make when all you want is someone to love you.The attention you will do anything to get can persuade you to make some bad decisions. Well Darlene makes those bad decisions. Oh lord that woman drove me insane. She's right up there with Kiera (Thoughtless Series). I really wanted to reach in and shake her at times.
Darlene and Reid's marriage is a roller coaster of mistakes and lies. Work takes all of Reid's time which leaves Darlene with nothing to do in this new city. Moving from LA to Chicago is a big change. She knows no one. Growing up around Music she luckly finds a local bar that hosts open mic nights. She starts spending more time there and meets new people. Drinking, singing and dancing she finally feels like she is a part of something. She's getting all the right attention in the wrong place. She finds Blue. Oh yummy Blue. Oh the things...(get it together woman!) Sorry, daydreaming took over. Anyways, Darlene finds herself making bad decisions after bad decisions. There are temptations out there. Question is, do you act on them? Do you ever ask yourself that? Anywho, Things get hot! Then they get messy.
I feel like i'm rambling but I don't know what else to say but go read it. Jade knows how to keep you glued. You will want to crawl into the book like I wanted to. Oh and the piano scene! That's one of the moments I wish I was in Darlene's shoes. A sexy man singing to you will make any woman melt. I don't care who you are. This story tugged at my heart strings at times. I found myself really thinking what if? Oh Jade girl you are good. Thanks for giving me the opportunity to read and review this. Hopefully everyone who reads this goes and buys your book. If you are a reader and a lover of good love stories like me and decide to read this please email me and let me know what you think. I would love to see if anyone feels like me after reading Winter Blues.
Happy Reading!
The choices you make when all you want is someone to love you.The attention you will do anything to get can persuade you to make some bad decisions. Well Darlene makes those bad decisions. Oh lord that woman drove me insane. She's right up there with Kiera (Thoughtless Series). I really wanted to reach in and shake her at times.
Darlene and Reid's marriage is a roller coaster of mistakes and lies. Work takes all of Reid's time which leaves Darlene with nothing to do in this new city. Moving from LA to Chicago is a big change. She knows no one. Growing up around Music she luckly finds a local bar that hosts open mic nights. She starts spending more time there and meets new people. Drinking, singing and dancing she finally feels like she is a part of something. She's getting all the right attention in the wrong place. She finds Blue. Oh yummy Blue. Oh the things...(get it together woman!) Sorry, daydreaming took over. Anyways, Darlene finds herself making bad decisions after bad decisions. There are temptations out there. Question is, do you act on them? Do you ever ask yourself that? Anywho, Things get hot! Then they get messy.
I feel like i'm rambling but I don't know what else to say but go read it. Jade knows how to keep you glued. You will want to crawl into the book like I wanted to. Oh and the piano scene! That's one of the moments I wish I was in Darlene's shoes. A sexy man singing to you will make any woman melt. I don't care who you are. This story tugged at my heart strings at times. I found myself really thinking what if? Oh Jade girl you are good. Thanks for giving me the opportunity to read and review this. Hopefully everyone who reads this goes and buys your book. If you are a reader and a lover of good love stories like me and decide to read this please email me and let me know what you think. I would love to see if anyone feels like me after reading Winter Blues.
Happy Reading!
April 24, 2015
Although I was loving this book, I am not one to be unfaithful, so with that said, I was upset with Darl, letting the lust take control of her body. I know that her and her husband was not where they needed to be, but marriage is not always puppy dogs and rainbows. Although in another time, Blue would have been the perfect guy, yes he was almost perfect.
I think Reid might have let his marriage slip a little, but it was only because he was making a better life, and starting a new job. I'm glad they found there way back, they had a great few months, until Blue busted up the party. But what Darl did because of that was really uncalled for. She was sooooooo wrong for that, and then, the way it ended about killed me. So what now? What happens? Do they ever get together, have kids? Where did they end up living together? Although it wasn't a true cliffhanger, it still was similar. I loved the book, but truly hated the ending. After such a great read for it to end that way was very disappointing.
I would still recommend it, endings doesn't matter to some people like it does to me.
I think Reid might have let his marriage slip a little, but it was only because he was making a better life, and starting a new job. I'm glad they found there way back, they had a great few months, until Blue busted up the party. But what Darl did because of that was really uncalled for. She was sooooooo wrong for that, and then, the way it ended about killed me. So what now? What happens? Do they ever get together, have kids? Where did they end up living together? Although it wasn't a true cliffhanger, it still was similar. I loved the book, but truly hated the ending. After such a great read for it to end that way was very disappointing.
I would still recommend it, endings doesn't matter to some people like it does to me.
December 8, 2013
Loved this story!
This is a heartbreaking tale with real characters, and real life emotions. The pacing and dialog hold your hand through the two main characters POV’s.
The author details the feelings of her characters so well you feel their pain, anger, joy and grief. You’ll care about Darlene and Reid, and also hate them at times. It’s a story that can happen between any couple.
I enjoyed every moment of it. Well done Jade Goodmore.
This is a heartbreaking tale with real characters, and real life emotions. The pacing and dialog hold your hand through the two main characters POV’s.
The author details the feelings of her characters so well you feel their pain, anger, joy and grief. You’ll care about Darlene and Reid, and also hate them at times. It’s a story that can happen between any couple.
I enjoyed every moment of it. Well done Jade Goodmore.
May 30, 2014
Love is easy, marriage is hard, but trust? Trust is the hardest.’
Jenny: I think I read Winter Blues through gritted teeth a lot of the time. Oh don’t get me wrong, I think the author did a splendid job of bringing Darlene and Reids story to life and she certainly put me through my paces as I experienced moments of anger, annoyance, frustration and angst aplenty where I continually found myself shouting at my Kindle for these to communicate!
“….Because I miss us”
Jade Goodmore delivered a well written story that elicited some strong emotions and tested my resolve where we meet two people experiencing difficulties in their marriage after relocating to Chicago. I felt the contempt, misery and neglect experienced by Darlene and Reid, but their actions so frustrated me and Darlene tested my every nerve. I found I couldn’t relate to her at all and I think my dislike of her affected how I felt about the story.
Gitte: Yeah, I can’t actually say I enjoyed reading this story all that much, such was the strength of my emotions and frustrations. Don’t get me wrong, it was very well written, the emotional aspects were brilliant and I just could not put it down.
‘To feel loved is the richest feeling in the world, but when that love is taken away it takes much more than it ever gave.’
However, I really didn’t like the heroine Darlene at all. I was pretty pissed off whilst reading this story from beginning till end, I have to say. Now, this is not because I have a problem with the subject nor the consequence of a troublesome neglected marriage. No, Darlene’s behaviour was incredibly defeatist, selfish and quite frankly childish at times. That coupled with Reid’s non-communicative ways it was a recipe for marital disaster really. Though, I will say that Reid was a brilliantly written character despite his inability to communicate. So, it was a real shame the heroine was so unlikeable as she quite frankly just gave up at the first marital hurdle, enjoyed a side-order of infidelity then passed the blame when confronted by the truth.
‘…love is tainted with the hurt…’
Saying this, I do actually have to give Jade Goodmore props because I just couldn’t put this book down, I had to read on till the end to see what happened next! This is one of those times where I’m conflicted as to whether a book is really good because of how strong my emotions were from the brilliant writing or whether it just wasn’t for me because of my intense dislike for the heroine? I honestly don’t know, Jenny!
Jenny: It was evident from the outset that despite being in a rut and despite the hurt, impatience and condescending tones they took with one another, Darlene and Reid were in love. But a marriage without nurturing and attention will most certainly suffer the consequences.
“We’re falling in love again.” “I already love you.” “Not enough.”
Whilst I understood and initially (and I say initially because that soon waned) and sympathised with Darlene’s feelings of despair and loneliness that soon changed as her decisions became calculated and selfish. Instead of working through their problems, she chose to do what was best for her as opposed what was best for their marriage and she grated on my every nerve and I disliked her immensely!
‘I’ve mentally put the space between us and I want to fun back. I will do anything but it feels impossible, because I don’t belong here.’
My sympathies did lie with Reid through Winter Blues, but towards the end, I felt his stance and the way he went about repairing their marriage only exacerbated the situation.
“I’m going to show you every day, in one way or the other, that I love you.”
Like you Gitte, my feelings for Winter Blues are conflicted. This was definitely a well written story that I couldn’t put down, but I too feel my enjoyment of the story was hindered by my dislike of the heroine. Fans of love triangles, who love their stories with plenty of angst in their stories will enjoy this one.
**ARC provided by author in exchange for an honest review**
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January 29, 2014
Reviewed by Heather- 4.5 smooches
Darlene and Reid are in a very rocky place. Reid got a new job and they moved across the country for a better life. Things didn’t quite turn out as expected for Darlene. She has no friends, has not been able to find a job, and her husband is always at work. Darlene is sinking deeper and deeper into a depression. Reid is clueless! He doesn’t realize or refuses to see just how badly his wife is coping with this move and carries on with his life, business as usual.
Darlene tries to find her own happiness. She starts playing music again, which has always been a huge part of her life and befriends the owner of the bar she is playing at. Blue appreciates her music and provides the friendship and attention that she has been lacking for so long. And here is where things really start to spiral out of control. I’m sure you can see where this is going and it is no secret that this friendship leads to something more. Will it mean the end of their marriage?
Darlene is losing herself. She hates the person she is becoming but can’t seem to stop it. Blue fancies himself in love with her and Reid... well he just may be too late.
Winter Blues is not an easy read. I would compare it in many ways to Thoughtless or Arsen. If you enjoyed either of those books then I believe you will love this one as well. Winter Blues dissects a marriage falling apart. You can easily see the faults in both parties and how simple communication could have saved a lot of hurt. It is a book that will make you wish you could jump inside and shake or slap some sense into these characters. It is a book that has made me appreciate my own marriage and it is a reminder to never take that for granted.
The only thing keeping Winter Blues from being a 5 star read for me are a few of the choices that Darlene makes, especially the one at the end of the book. You will have to read it to find out what that choice was! If you are like me and enjoy a book that ties you in knots and makes you FEEL then this is the book for you! Jade is an excellent writer. I seriously wanted to quote half of the book. But, I won’t spoil it for you. You need to read! The very first chapter was genius and had me HOOKED.
…instead of fighting for our relationship it feels like we are simply accepting its decline.
Darlene and Reid are in a very rocky place. Reid got a new job and they moved across the country for a better life. Things didn’t quite turn out as expected for Darlene. She has no friends, has not been able to find a job, and her husband is always at work. Darlene is sinking deeper and deeper into a depression. Reid is clueless! He doesn’t realize or refuses to see just how badly his wife is coping with this move and carries on with his life, business as usual.
Darlene tries to find her own happiness. She starts playing music again, which has always been a huge part of her life and befriends the owner of the bar she is playing at. Blue appreciates her music and provides the friendship and attention that she has been lacking for so long. And here is where things really start to spiral out of control. I’m sure you can see where this is going and it is no secret that this friendship leads to something more. Will it mean the end of their marriage?
To feel loved is the richest feeling in the world, but when that love is taken away it takes much more than it ever gave. It takes a part of who you are.
Darlene is losing herself. She hates the person she is becoming but can’t seem to stop it. Blue fancies himself in love with her and Reid... well he just may be too late.
If I was his friend I’d slap him on the back. If it wasn’t my wife he was confessing his love to I’d congratulate him on his huge balls. If I wasn’t scared to death that his subtle declaration was working I’d admire his creativity. As it happens, I want to take his guitar and crush it into his skull. Repeatedly. ~Reid
Winter Blues is not an easy read. I would compare it in many ways to Thoughtless or Arsen. If you enjoyed either of those books then I believe you will love this one as well. Winter Blues dissects a marriage falling apart. You can easily see the faults in both parties and how simple communication could have saved a lot of hurt. It is a book that will make you wish you could jump inside and shake or slap some sense into these characters. It is a book that has made me appreciate my own marriage and it is a reminder to never take that for granted.
The only thing keeping Winter Blues from being a 5 star read for me are a few of the choices that Darlene makes, especially the one at the end of the book. You will have to read it to find out what that choice was! If you are like me and enjoy a book that ties you in knots and makes you FEEL then this is the book for you! Jade is an excellent writer. I seriously wanted to quote half of the book. But, I won’t spoil it for you. You need to read! The very first chapter was genius and had me HOOKED.
Love is easy, marriage is hard, but trust? Trust is the hardest.
July 29, 2016
The first thing I want to mention is the first chapter, now Jade Goodmore knows how to start a book off right. That first chapter sucked me in, grabbed me by its hooks, and didn't let me go until the very last chapter.
Now the story….Winter Blues is not for everyone. The synopsis flat out tells you that it’s not the story of a love beginning, but a love surviving. The marriage quite frankly is in trouble. There is NO communication in this marriage, and I mean none…zilch, notta. Both of these characters are to be blamed for drifting apart in their marriage and the lies that are told, and we are able to see this since the story is told through both of their POV’s.
To feel loved is the richest feeling in the world, but when that love is taken away it takes much more than it ever gave. It takes a part of who you are.
Instead of communicating and working on this wedge in their marriage, Reid buries himself in work and Darlene starts playing music again. At the bar Darlene plays music at, she friends Blue the owner, and they develop a friendship and Blue is able to offer Darlene something her marriage with Reid is lacking. I’m not going to tell you where things go from here, I’m sure you can probably guess this on your own. I will say that at first I thought the author was really skimming over some crucial scenes with Blue in them, but the more I talked to my book bestie we realized that she probably wanted the focus to be more on Darlene and Reid’s relationship than anything she had with Blue. So Darlene and Reid are left with choices….pick up the pieces of their marriage left in shambles or throw in the towel…is their love worth the fight?
Love is easy. It requires no thought, just feeling. What you do with that love is up to you. You can shut it out, refuse it, and live the rest of your life looking for it again, or you can embrace it and work through the issues that accompany it. Most issues are resolved easily, then when the timing is right, well then there’s marriage.
Like I mentioned above this book is not for everyone. If you can’t deal with infidelity…then nope, not for you. To me, this is a work of fiction, and I was pleasantly surprised at Jade Goodmore’s writing skills and ability to suck me in to the story….she made me FEEL, she made me think, she broke my heart, and she made me want to squeeze my husband a little tighter tonight.
Love is easy, marriage is hard, but trust? Trust is the hardest.
*Reviewed by Brandi
Now the story….Winter Blues is not for everyone. The synopsis flat out tells you that it’s not the story of a love beginning, but a love surviving. The marriage quite frankly is in trouble. There is NO communication in this marriage, and I mean none…zilch, notta. Both of these characters are to be blamed for drifting apart in their marriage and the lies that are told, and we are able to see this since the story is told through both of their POV’s.
To feel loved is the richest feeling in the world, but when that love is taken away it takes much more than it ever gave. It takes a part of who you are.
Instead of communicating and working on this wedge in their marriage, Reid buries himself in work and Darlene starts playing music again. At the bar Darlene plays music at, she friends Blue the owner, and they develop a friendship and Blue is able to offer Darlene something her marriage with Reid is lacking. I’m not going to tell you where things go from here, I’m sure you can probably guess this on your own. I will say that at first I thought the author was really skimming over some crucial scenes with Blue in them, but the more I talked to my book bestie we realized that she probably wanted the focus to be more on Darlene and Reid’s relationship than anything she had with Blue. So Darlene and Reid are left with choices….pick up the pieces of their marriage left in shambles or throw in the towel…is their love worth the fight?
Love is easy. It requires no thought, just feeling. What you do with that love is up to you. You can shut it out, refuse it, and live the rest of your life looking for it again, or you can embrace it and work through the issues that accompany it. Most issues are resolved easily, then when the timing is right, well then there’s marriage.
Like I mentioned above this book is not for everyone. If you can’t deal with infidelity…then nope, not for you. To me, this is a work of fiction, and I was pleasantly surprised at Jade Goodmore’s writing skills and ability to suck me in to the story….she made me FEEL, she made me think, she broke my heart, and she made me want to squeeze my husband a little tighter tonight.
Love is easy, marriage is hard, but trust? Trust is the hardest.
*Reviewed by Brandi
August 3, 2014
I don't know what I thought about this book.
Reid is a husband that seems to be more interested in his work, than he is in his wife Darlene. That bothered me, it's not super off the wall that a man would be a work a holic. What bugged me was that his THOUGHTS were all about how his wife wasn't paying attention to him, how much he wanted her, how much he wanted to find a way to make things better, to make his marriage work with her. But his actions never changed..
Until he was being competitive, which really turned me off on him.
Blue is a bit of a player, he is a man that Darlene meets at a bar during an open mic night. He becomes a good friend for her, but we know clearly that something more has to happen here.
I liked Blue more, I kind of wanted them to end up together. I won't spoil the ending, but it didn't seem like we got all this information in the book to be given the ending we were.
Reid is a husband that seems to be more interested in his work, than he is in his wife Darlene. That bothered me, it's not super off the wall that a man would be a work a holic. What bugged me was that his THOUGHTS were all about how his wife wasn't paying attention to him, how much he wanted her, how much he wanted to find a way to make things better, to make his marriage work with her. But his actions never changed..
Until he was being competitive, which really turned me off on him.
Blue is a bit of a player, he is a man that Darlene meets at a bar during an open mic night. He becomes a good friend for her, but we know clearly that something more has to happen here.
I liked Blue more, I kind of wanted them to end up together. I won't spoil the ending, but it didn't seem like we got all this information in the book to be given the ending we were.
January 2, 2014
I just finished this book and I mean I just finished it. With tears in my eyes and emotions thrown in different directions, but these emotions are good and bad. I don't want to give the story away. I don't like it when I am reading a review and they tell you about the story. I want to find out on my own. I don't like spoilers. So with that being said. I didn't like some of the choices that were made but I see how this does happen and how the outcome can be. I felt for the two main characters and saw that Love is still there. This book for me as I see it is a lesson on communication, trust, honesty, and love in a marriage or any other relationship. When your relationship is down or at a standstill what are you going to do to put back on track or on a better track?
September 3, 2016
3.5*
I always find reading these types of books, that a cheating spouse always happens because of lack of communication between a husband and wife, so I wasn't surprised that the cheating in here happened because of that - the lack of communication between Reid and Darlene.
By the end, I wasn't much of a fan of Darlene's, not so much of a fan of Reid's either, he was too much of a pussy! Where the hell was his balls!?! There were so many things that pissed me off about their relationship that I felt like pulling my freaking hair out!
By the end though I did become a fan of the author, loved the writing, loved how she got the feels going so my rating is purely based on that.
I always find reading these types of books, that a cheating spouse always happens because of lack of communication between a husband and wife, so I wasn't surprised that the cheating in here happened because of that - the lack of communication between Reid and Darlene.
By the end, I wasn't much of a fan of Darlene's, not so much of a fan of Reid's either, he was too much of a pussy! Where the hell was his balls!?! There were so many things that pissed me off about their relationship that I felt like pulling my freaking hair out!
By the end though I did become a fan of the author, loved the writing, loved how she got the feels going so my rating is purely based on that.
June 12, 2014
This was a nice surprise! I love it when a Amazon freebie turns out so well. I get so me duds on the freebie so it is refreshing to get a great read. This was a really great book on second chances and a married couple. I don't read many books with married couples but I loved this one. It was great to see this couple work through growing apart to an affair and then to mending. Loved the angst and steam in this book.
Good read!
Good read!
Read
June 11, 2014What can I say...Beautifully written.
I wanted to strangle Reid for being such an ass and manipulating, however Darlene was just closed off and running. Blue was wrong in all areas but yet used by Darlene. This story frustrates you, put you on an emotional roller coaster and the frustrates you even more. I will say that I'm not sure if true love conquered all in this story but it sure as hell tries.
I wanted to strangle Reid for being such an ass and manipulating, however Darlene was just closed off and running. Blue was wrong in all areas but yet used by Darlene. This story frustrates you, put you on an emotional roller coaster and the frustrates you even more. I will say that I'm not sure if true love conquered all in this story but it sure as hell tries.
December 28, 2013
I had the pleasure of beta reading this slice of heaven, I couldn't put it down, it hooks you in and doesn't let go. All I have to say is, your my boy Blue! I'm so in love with him in every way. Reid wasn't a bad guy, but he and I got off on the wrong foot. You'll have to read the story and make your choice, either way the story is lovely and a must read.
January 27, 2014
GOD!! I wanted to smack Darlene and shake the life out of Reid!!
Why is it so hard to show someone you truly love them? Read this and you might see why.
I enjoyed Winter Blues tho! I'm hoping for a Part2!!! (Fingers crossed)
Why is it so hard to show someone you truly love them? Read this and you might see why.
I enjoyed Winter Blues tho! I'm hoping for a Part2!!! (Fingers crossed)
January 5, 2014
4.5 stars!
June 10, 2014
OMFG I actually stopped reading the last pages fearing the end. WTF Blue? What a jerk
June 11, 2014
LOVE IT!
This is a really good book with ups and downs. The story and the situation felt so real. What I love the most is how relatable the book is.
This is a really good book with ups and downs. The story and the situation felt so real. What I love the most is how relatable the book is.
June 16, 2014
Wow this book is a must read I'm not going into details, but this book was amazing
June 20, 2014
Is a great book to read
June 16, 2014
"Love is easy, marriage is hard, but trust? Trust is the hardest." quote from this book couldn't have been said any better.
February 9, 2017
Amazing!!!
What can I say. The writing blew me away. Great character development, great pace, and great story!!!! Enjoyed it from beginning to end ❤️.
What can I say. The writing blew me away. Great character development, great pace, and great story!!!! Enjoyed it from beginning to end ❤️.
April 27, 2014
3.99-4 Believable Stars
I'm still mixed on this book!
The author is a dear friend of mines and the writing was ON POINT as expected because she's an amazing author!
The story is about Darlene and her husband Reid who moved to Chicago because of his job and now his wife Darlene is fighting to occupy her time and starts to miss how her life use to be before the move. Six months ago....
But the story killed me and I have to say that the characters pissed me off! First off the way the story was written and the character development was perfection. I love the way it started and from that point it hooked you....
But then the book started to piss me off quickly and there were times that I wanted to slam my iPad on the fucking floor YOU HAVE NO IDEA!
A lot of times You want to punch the chick in the face- which I wanted to do with the main character Darlene endless amounts of time.
She was just a blubbering mess and for someone who doesn't cry a lot cried did a whole lot because of her "mistake." She was a whiny baby who instead of doing something sought the easy way out, or the not-so-great-what-the-fuck-are-you-doing way out.
I didn't feel like her character was a strong woman but one of trying to do something because she was lonely. She has to understand that moving someplace is new and I don't know if she knew that this was new for him (her husband Reid) as it was for her. I don't think she went fully wanting to start this new chapter of her life because she missed everything back home. I think she should've put her big girl panties on and dealt with it. I felt like she went out to try and find something to excite her which was back to her music and performing but even knowing that was going down was going to be a mistake she still went for it. She welcomed it fully.
ONE WORD TO DESCRIBE HER
I think the only thing I really loved about Darlene was her love for music....
The music in the book is freaking awesomeness!!!
Reid. Reid. Reid. What can say about him except-----WHERE THE FUCK WERE HIS BALLS!?!?
It was like he tucked them between his legs and dealt with the stupidness that he clearly knew what was going on. Okay so I know he LOVES HER but really.....fucking really.....you're woman is a slut and ur fine with that. R u fucking kidding me?! I want to punch him like I want to punch her, maybe even a little more! This hard working man, trying to better the life of his wife and himself is perfectly-not perfect with what is going on under his nose. It takes time to build a new life and he is working extremely hard for things. Yes he made mistakes about not spending time wit her, or canceling dates but again I think she should understand especially if he wasn't always like this for them. I think the whole fighting for your love and marriage is a wonderful thing...it's something people should do more often but I somehow feel like he went about it to the wrong way...idk maybe it's just me...
And Mr.Blue. I thought he was actually okay. Sexy, singer, bartender who every girls wants. He kept it real and probably was the ONLY character I didn't want to punch hard. I feel bad for him in a weird way because I don't think he was to blame, although he went with the flow and had to know which side this was going. Although he was a semi main character I didn't think there was much of him in the book.
The book held interest and let me just say the Epilogue or even the last chapter before the epilogue. I think that killed it for me in a way. I don't feel like Darlene should have had a say in anything and the way she went about it.......I'll say it: REID COULD DO WAYYYYY BETTER THAN DARLENE.
PS- The book as I said was well even perfectly written and I am happy I got to read another book by the wonderful Jade! There was minor fillers for me but it didn't take away the feel from the book. But this is something that truly goes on in true life(or at some parts) and for that it was extremely BELIEVABLE. The story was vividly played in my mind, I love when I'm reading and I can watch the movie!!!!!!! My love you did great and I enjoy extremely and let me just say how much you pissed me off! It's nice to read what was in ur head. Congratulations my love....I totally recommend this book for everyone because it's relatable and real.
I'm still mixed on this book!
The author is a dear friend of mines and the writing was ON POINT as expected because she's an amazing author!
The story is about Darlene and her husband Reid who moved to Chicago because of his job and now his wife Darlene is fighting to occupy her time and starts to miss how her life use to be before the move. Six months ago....
But the story killed me and I have to say that the characters pissed me off! First off the way the story was written and the character development was perfection. I love the way it started and from that point it hooked you....
But then the book started to piss me off quickly and there were times that I wanted to slam my iPad on the fucking floor YOU HAVE NO IDEA!
A lot of times You want to punch the chick in the face- which I wanted to do with the main character Darlene endless amounts of time.
She was just a blubbering mess and for someone who doesn't cry a lot cried did a whole lot because of her "mistake." She was a whiny baby who instead of doing something sought the easy way out, or the not-so-great-what-the-fuck-are-you-doing way out.
I didn't feel like her character was a strong woman but one of trying to do something because she was lonely. She has to understand that moving someplace is new and I don't know if she knew that this was new for him (her husband Reid) as it was for her. I don't think she went fully wanting to start this new chapter of her life because she missed everything back home. I think she should've put her big girl panties on and dealt with it. I felt like she went out to try and find something to excite her which was back to her music and performing but even knowing that was going down was going to be a mistake she still went for it. She welcomed it fully.
ONE WORD TO DESCRIBE HER
I think the only thing I really loved about Darlene was her love for music....
The music in the book is freaking awesomeness!!!
Reid. Reid. Reid. What can say about him except-----WHERE THE FUCK WERE HIS BALLS!?!?
It was like he tucked them between his legs and dealt with the stupidness that he clearly knew what was going on. Okay so I know he LOVES HER but really.....fucking really.....you're woman is a slut and ur fine with that. R u fucking kidding me?! I want to punch him like I want to punch her, maybe even a little more! This hard working man, trying to better the life of his wife and himself is perfectly-not perfect with what is going on under his nose. It takes time to build a new life and he is working extremely hard for things. Yes he made mistakes about not spending time wit her, or canceling dates but again I think she should understand especially if he wasn't always like this for them. I think the whole fighting for your love and marriage is a wonderful thing...it's something people should do more often but I somehow feel like he went about it to the wrong way...idk maybe it's just me...
And Mr.Blue. I thought he was actually okay. Sexy, singer, bartender who every girls wants. He kept it real and probably was the ONLY character I didn't want to punch hard. I feel bad for him in a weird way because I don't think he was to blame, although he went with the flow and had to know which side this was going. Although he was a semi main character I didn't think there was much of him in the book.
The book held interest and let me just say the Epilogue or even the last chapter before the epilogue. I think that killed it for me in a way. I don't feel like Darlene should have had a say in anything and the way she went about it.......I'll say it: REID COULD DO WAYYYYY BETTER THAN DARLENE.
PS- The book as I said was well even perfectly written and I am happy I got to read another book by the wonderful Jade! There was minor fillers for me but it didn't take away the feel from the book. But this is something that truly goes on in true life(or at some parts) and for that it was extremely BELIEVABLE. The story was vividly played in my mind, I love when I'm reading and I can watch the movie!!!!!!! My love you did great and I enjoy extremely and let me just say how much you pissed me off! It's nice to read what was in ur head. Congratulations my love....I totally recommend this book for everyone because it's relatable and real.
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