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Wherever We Go #1
Just You & Me
Wherever we go, it’s just Layla and me.
I can trick myself into thinking that I’m giving my five-year-old the experience of a lifetime.
Except, the truth is, we are running for our lives.
South Carolina is supposed to be temporary, at least that’s the plan.
To deviate from the plan is to risk my little girl.
It doesn’t matter that Jackson, Marcus, Jude and Leo have earned my daughter’s trust.
Or that they have broken down my walls one smile, one kiss…one laugh at a time.
It doesn’t matter how badly we want to stay,
What matters is staying one step ahead of Layla’s father.
It’s just supposed to be Layla and me…
Even if my heart belongs to four handsome men who love my daughter like their own.
Staying is not an option.
Authors Note:
This is a standalone single-mom why-choose novel, meaning ALL of these characters won’t have to choose between each other. MMMMF romance featuring MPOV, and dark content.
Each book will feature a cameo lead and a set of new characters!
If you have read my work before…just know the spice has definitely kicked up a notch!
Trigger Warning:
Each book is recommended for those 18+ due to sexual content and references to domestic violence (Physical & emotional). Other triggers include PTSD, Trauma Responses (mother & daughter), and Estranged Familial Relations.
A further detailed list will be included in the forward.
I can trick myself into thinking that I’m giving my five-year-old the experience of a lifetime.
Except, the truth is, we are running for our lives.
South Carolina is supposed to be temporary, at least that’s the plan.
To deviate from the plan is to risk my little girl.
It doesn’t matter that Jackson, Marcus, Jude and Leo have earned my daughter’s trust.
Or that they have broken down my walls one smile, one kiss…one laugh at a time.
It doesn’t matter how badly we want to stay,
What matters is staying one step ahead of Layla’s father.
It’s just supposed to be Layla and me…
Even if my heart belongs to four handsome men who love my daughter like their own.
Staying is not an option.
Authors Note:
This is a standalone single-mom why-choose novel, meaning ALL of these characters won’t have to choose between each other. MMMMF romance featuring MPOV, and dark content.
Each book will feature a cameo lead and a set of new characters!
If you have read my work before…just know the spice has definitely kicked up a notch!
Trigger Warning:
Each book is recommended for those 18+ due to sexual content and references to domestic violence (Physical & emotional). Other triggers include PTSD, Trauma Responses (mother & daughter), and Estranged Familial Relations.
A further detailed list will be included in the forward.
278 pages, Kindle Edition
Published November 28, 2023
344 people are currently reading
364 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 72 reviews
December 6, 2023
Hmmmmm
This contemporary RH was okay. Rylee and Layla were lovely together, and the guys were…sweet and protective.
**SPOILERS**
Rylee is a single mom with a 5 yr old daughter on the run from her abusive ex. He has been “hunting them” determined to get his daughter back and punish/kill Rylee for her defiance and for “turning his kid against him.”
Rylee settles in a nice beach cottage, having taken over the tail end of a lease. She and her daughter never stay in one place for more than 3-4 months before they move again. However…fate has some things in store for her and her lovely daughter, Layla.
Leo and Marcus are long time lovers. They have only been with men before but apparently are gender “fluid” and wouldn’t mind adding a woman into the mix. They are instantly attracted to Rylee and delighted by her daughter, but their first meeting doesn’t go to well because both Rylee and Layla are rightly wary of their attention. After leaving, Rylee meets a surfer named Jude, and his annoyed because he instantly hits on her. Turns out that Jude is best friends with Jackson who owns the cottage that she’s leasing. Ohhhh…and it also so happens that Jude and Jackson are friends with Leo and Marcus and yeah, they all sleep together. But Jude and Jackson fall for Rylee and Layla too, and all four guys decide to “woo” the wary single mom.
This wasn’t an awful contemporary RH, but it could’ve been so much better. The evil ex…well the ending where he shows up is seriously anticlimactic. Also, Rylee’s detective brother just “showing up” was really rather random and came kind of late in the book. I also wasn’t thoroughly sold on the guys relationship with Rylee. Frankly they all thought she was beautiful the second they met her, and just like that decided that they wanted to “add” her to their foursome (yeah the guys are all together). Rylee “fell” for them a little too quickly in my opinion, and I also thought the there was a definite imbalance in the relationships. Honestly I didn’t feel that Rylee was as important as the guys partners. There were like two “date scenes” and then she’s joining them in an “orgy.” She watches all the guys with one another, is fine with everything (honestly I thought she’d be more traumatized by her past) and then is like, “thanks for the relief.” The guys are angry because they expected that she’d know the sex meant more to them, that she’d want to be a part of their foursome…but, uhm, why?! How was she supposed to know it was serious for them. Marcus and Leo had introduced themselves and long time boyfriends/partners and Jackson and Jude were obviously about to hook up (Jude was already hooking up with Leo and Marcus).
I think my biggest issue with this book was that it felt as if Rylee just sorta “insta-lust/love” fell for these guys who came off as much more gay than bisexual or gender fluid. As much as the author tried to show how attracted they were to Rylee, it always seemed that yes they had chemistry with Rylee, but the true intimacy was reserved for their male lovers.
All-in-all it was an okay RH if you’re okay with a lot more time spent on the m/m/m/m aspect both physically (sex) and emotionally. Because there’s a lot of time spent talking about how Leo and Marcus want to be be 100% with Jude and Jackson but both of those guys have hang ups, even though they’re all f*cling one another. Sometimes (a lot of times) Rylee felt like an afterthought, and I wasn’t crazy about that. I almost preferred just reading the chapters where it was Rylee and Layla ALONE and healing and strong together!! I felt as if the 4-way bisexual male pairing with the single mom would’ve worked much better if this had been a duology, or if there had been more time spent ONE-ON-ONE with each guy getting to KNOW Rylee, and less orgy like sex scenes where Rylee was with one guy watching the others go at it. Again, felt imbalanced. Because of this imbalance the ending felt FORCED and definitely rushed! And It didn’t come off as believable that they’d all end up HEA living all together as a m/m/m/m/f “family”. It also seemed AWFUL FAST!!
So yes, it was actually an easy book to read. The author states triggers, but honestly they’re not bad an all. Rylee is “healed” physically by the time she meets the guys if not emotionally. But even emotionally she seems to “get over her hang ups” pretty fast when the 4 guys are introduced. So no, the book wasn’t “dark,” nor was it really violent (save for the very end). It was a pleasant enough read, with characters that had potential but could’ve been so much better developed…especially the guys. I truly wished Y.V. Larson spent as much time developing and showing the same “emotional” intimacy…and love between Leo, Marcus, Jackson and Jude TOWARD Rylee…heck knows she deserved it.
This contemporary RH was okay. Rylee and Layla were lovely together, and the guys were…sweet and protective.
**SPOILERS**
Rylee is a single mom with a 5 yr old daughter on the run from her abusive ex. He has been “hunting them” determined to get his daughter back and punish/kill Rylee for her defiance and for “turning his kid against him.”
Rylee settles in a nice beach cottage, having taken over the tail end of a lease. She and her daughter never stay in one place for more than 3-4 months before they move again. However…fate has some things in store for her and her lovely daughter, Layla.
Leo and Marcus are long time lovers. They have only been with men before but apparently are gender “fluid” and wouldn’t mind adding a woman into the mix. They are instantly attracted to Rylee and delighted by her daughter, but their first meeting doesn’t go to well because both Rylee and Layla are rightly wary of their attention. After leaving, Rylee meets a surfer named Jude, and his annoyed because he instantly hits on her. Turns out that Jude is best friends with Jackson who owns the cottage that she’s leasing. Ohhhh…and it also so happens that Jude and Jackson are friends with Leo and Marcus and yeah, they all sleep together. But Jude and Jackson fall for Rylee and Layla too, and all four guys decide to “woo” the wary single mom.
This wasn’t an awful contemporary RH, but it could’ve been so much better. The evil ex…well the ending where he shows up is seriously anticlimactic. Also, Rylee’s detective brother just “showing up” was really rather random and came kind of late in the book. I also wasn’t thoroughly sold on the guys relationship with Rylee. Frankly they all thought she was beautiful the second they met her, and just like that decided that they wanted to “add” her to their foursome (yeah the guys are all together). Rylee “fell” for them a little too quickly in my opinion, and I also thought the there was a definite imbalance in the relationships. Honestly I didn’t feel that Rylee was as important as the guys partners. There were like two “date scenes” and then she’s joining them in an “orgy.” She watches all the guys with one another, is fine with everything (honestly I thought she’d be more traumatized by her past) and then is like, “thanks for the relief.” The guys are angry because they expected that she’d know the sex meant more to them, that she’d want to be a part of their foursome…but, uhm, why?! How was she supposed to know it was serious for them. Marcus and Leo had introduced themselves and long time boyfriends/partners and Jackson and Jude were obviously about to hook up (Jude was already hooking up with Leo and Marcus).
I think my biggest issue with this book was that it felt as if Rylee just sorta “insta-lust/love” fell for these guys who came off as much more gay than bisexual or gender fluid. As much as the author tried to show how attracted they were to Rylee, it always seemed that yes they had chemistry with Rylee, but the true intimacy was reserved for their male lovers.
All-in-all it was an okay RH if you’re okay with a lot more time spent on the m/m/m/m aspect both physically (sex) and emotionally. Because there’s a lot of time spent talking about how Leo and Marcus want to be be 100% with Jude and Jackson but both of those guys have hang ups, even though they’re all f*cling one another. Sometimes (a lot of times) Rylee felt like an afterthought, and I wasn’t crazy about that. I almost preferred just reading the chapters where it was Rylee and Layla ALONE and healing and strong together!! I felt as if the 4-way bisexual male pairing with the single mom would’ve worked much better if this had been a duology, or if there had been more time spent ONE-ON-ONE with each guy getting to KNOW Rylee, and less orgy like sex scenes where Rylee was with one guy watching the others go at it. Again, felt imbalanced. Because of this imbalance the ending felt FORCED and definitely rushed! And It didn’t come off as believable that they’d all end up HEA living all together as a m/m/m/m/f “family”. It also seemed AWFUL FAST!!
So yes, it was actually an easy book to read. The author states triggers, but honestly they’re not bad an all. Rylee is “healed” physically by the time she meets the guys if not emotionally. But even emotionally she seems to “get over her hang ups” pretty fast when the 4 guys are introduced. So no, the book wasn’t “dark,” nor was it really violent (save for the very end). It was a pleasant enough read, with characters that had potential but could’ve been so much better developed…especially the guys. I truly wished Y.V. Larson spent as much time developing and showing the same “emotional” intimacy…and love between Leo, Marcus, Jackson and Jude TOWARD Rylee…heck knows she deserved it.
June 21, 2025
Re-read June 2025
I loved the story.
There was SOMETHING missing. I can't put my finger on it but other than that, it was a great book.
December 21, 2023
amazingly written
Where to even start.. Y.V. Larson wrote an absolutely fantastic story about a single mom and her 5 year old daughter finding happiness and love. The story doesn’t gloss over the hard parts of moving on from a tumultuous relationship. She shows the grieving, hardships, trauma bonds..all the above that goes with the territory of finally being free.
The men in Rylee’s life don’t downplay her trauma, they support her through it and allow her to be the most true version of herself. This book will be on my bookshelf soon, as not only is the story phenomenal but the cover is absolutely gorgeous.
There is some great spice, I’d say it rates a 3.5 on average but don’t think it’s spineless, those scenes are HOT!!!
You can’t go wrong picking this book up, I for sure will be reading this again soon!
Where to even start.. Y.V. Larson wrote an absolutely fantastic story about a single mom and her 5 year old daughter finding happiness and love. The story doesn’t gloss over the hard parts of moving on from a tumultuous relationship. She shows the grieving, hardships, trauma bonds..all the above that goes with the territory of finally being free.
The men in Rylee’s life don’t downplay her trauma, they support her through it and allow her to be the most true version of herself. This book will be on my bookshelf soon, as not only is the story phenomenal but the cover is absolutely gorgeous.
There is some great spice, I’d say it rates a 3.5 on average but don’t think it’s spineless, those scenes are HOT!!!
You can’t go wrong picking this book up, I for sure will be reading this again soon!
November 8, 2023
Heat level: 3/5. I had the pleasure of editing for this author for the first time ever. This was also the first book I've read by her. Now, I had read a couple of MM scenes before this, but it's not really my thing to go out looking for it. This book may be changing my mind. Each character has their own voice and personality, this is a slow burn (somewhat) with the MMCs and the FMC but delivers some MM before that. The story was interesting and keeps you turning to the next page. There is voyeurism/exhibitionism, some Dom/Sub vibes, and praise. Check those TWs though because this single mom is on the run from an abusive husband with her little girl. I can't wait to get my hands on the next one!
July 31, 2024
DNF @ 10% 4 chapters
Ehhhh idk I think I am not a fan of this writing style.
Ehhhh idk I think I am not a fan of this writing style.
June 15, 2024
Soooo where to even start…
So so cringe and so many ew moments. Way too much emphasis on the "im so scared factor". It's becoming annoying and unrealistic. Also what is the mess right off the bat with the men? Actually, the whole damn plot and story was a mess, with crying and extra dramatic reactions. Everything had to be written down. Nothing was left to the imagination, which just destroys some of the magic of reading and becomes quite annoying when you can deduce the reactions and expressions, not everything needs to be said.
The author wanted to talk about too much and ended up talking about nothing. We don’t know anything about any of the protagonist, even when the author purposely wrote it down like girly I know it has to be slow burn, but they can’t be sleeping with each other while knowing absolutely nothing about each other. Beats the whole point of it. The only reveal we got was some surface trauma dump at complete random to never be heard of again…Definitely not a fan.
It only got extra points for girl dinner.
So so cringe and so many ew moments. Way too much emphasis on the "im so scared factor". It's becoming annoying and unrealistic. Also what is the mess right off the bat with the men? Actually, the whole damn plot and story was a mess, with crying and extra dramatic reactions. Everything had to be written down. Nothing was left to the imagination, which just destroys some of the magic of reading and becomes quite annoying when you can deduce the reactions and expressions, not everything needs to be said.
The author wanted to talk about too much and ended up talking about nothing. We don’t know anything about any of the protagonist, even when the author purposely wrote it down like girly I know it has to be slow burn, but they can’t be sleeping with each other while knowing absolutely nothing about each other. Beats the whole point of it. The only reveal we got was some surface trauma dump at complete random to never be heard of again…Definitely not a fan.
It only got extra points for girl dinner.
October 15, 2024
I liked the storyline of this book & the characters but I felt that the book was lacking something. This book was also a quick and easy read. Normally when I read a book I like an emotional connection but I couldn’t feel any emotions from this book. I felt like it was too rushed and the story needs to be developed a bit more. All the characters basically fall for Rylee just by looking at her. I did like the storyline of Rylee and her daughter being on the run! And Jude & JJ both meeting in foster care, I wished that we had found out more about that time! I did like Tate’s character but will probably skip the book as I’m not a fan of the writing style!
November 28, 2023
Sometimes, you find authors whose writing just speaks to your very soul. Y.V. Larson is one of those authors for me. Her characters exude so much emotion that you can feel it seeping from the page and surrounding you...until you find yourself holding your breath, cringing, crying and laughing right alongside them. This book, like her previous, deals with some uncomfortable subject matter, so of course watch the warnings, but know that it's the love and bonds between family found that shine here and not the trauma of the past.
December 7, 2023
SO sweet
Y.V. managed to capture so many sweet individual relationships in one book and twine them all together without it being confusing or too much. I think sometimes RH books can feel too short or like there wasn’t enough information but this didn’t feel like that at all and knowing we’ll continue to see this family in book 2 is just the cherry on top. If you like ultra sweet RH with already-established MM relationships you’ll love this
Y.V. managed to capture so many sweet individual relationships in one book and twine them all together without it being confusing or too much. I think sometimes RH books can feel too short or like there wasn’t enough information but this didn’t feel like that at all and knowing we’ll continue to see this family in book 2 is just the cherry on top. If you like ultra sweet RH with already-established MM relationships you’ll love this
November 13, 2023
Hooked from the beginning. This book just reeled me in.
I just finished it couldn’t put it down. It was amazing. Just wow. I love ALL the characters. Riley is a single mom who loves her daughter Layla with everything she has. Riley is always on the run trying to protect her daughter from her psycho abusive husband. They both are very protective of each other. It’s awesome to see Riley meet her new friend Gabby. Riley doesn’t trust easily. She is trying to let go and trust all the support she has around her. The guys are awesome. Marcus our Alpha trouble maker, Jackson another Alpha who protects everyone he loves, Leo the kind sweet sensitive man, and Jude the fun surfer boy sorta player. They all band together around Riley and Layla to bring them out of their shell and to give them all love that they deserve. I went through lot of different emotions with this book. Thank you for another amazing book. Can’t wait for Tate’s book. Love all your books.
I just finished it couldn’t put it down. It was amazing. Just wow. I love ALL the characters. Riley is a single mom who loves her daughter Layla with everything she has. Riley is always on the run trying to protect her daughter from her psycho abusive husband. They both are very protective of each other. It’s awesome to see Riley meet her new friend Gabby. Riley doesn’t trust easily. She is trying to let go and trust all the support she has around her. The guys are awesome. Marcus our Alpha trouble maker, Jackson another Alpha who protects everyone he loves, Leo the kind sweet sensitive man, and Jude the fun surfer boy sorta player. They all band together around Riley and Layla to bring them out of their shell and to give them all love that they deserve. I went through lot of different emotions with this book. Thank you for another amazing book. Can’t wait for Tate’s book. Love all your books.
December 3, 2023
This was a lovely standalone. I really enjoyed the characters and seeing them work through their dynamics. I did feel like most of the focus was on the guys' relationships (and the spice scenes), but this was great. I loved the little girl and seeing all the guys melt for her. Excited for the second book in this series!
November 19, 2023
I have been dying to get my hands on Just You & Me. I can’t even tell you how excited I was when she announced this new book! And it was EVERYTHING , I loved every single thing about this book. This was an absolutely fabulous quick pace single mom why choose standalone! Perfection. 5 ⭐️
November 22, 2023
Loved it! Little layla just stole my heart ❤️. Can’t wait for book 2
May 26, 2025
5⭐️⭐️ ugh this book was perfect!! i can not wait to read the next book!!
January 15, 2024
5 STARS
⭐ didn't like/DNF
⭐⭐ was okay but I probably won't look for any sequels
⭐⭐⭐ it was good I'll likely read the next one
⭐⭐⭐⭐ I thoroughly enjoyed it. It was great and I'll definitely be looking for any sequels
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ I loved it so much I'm adding it to my cart to buy paperback
--
Yesterday I told myself I'd do my cat's litter, my physio exercises for my back and write some of my book. Did I do any of those? No, no I did not. From the moment I got home from work, sat down and downloaded this book I was glued to it.
I stayed up late (sorry not sorry, worth it) and finished it practically in one sitting.
The relationship between the guys, the guys and Rylee as well as the guys and Layla was just amazing.
This is a standalone and finishes once Ry on a HFN (I say that because really they're just getting started and whilst book 2 is her brother and his found family they will be right alongside them so we will get to see their relationship grow in the next installment)
⭐ didn't like/DNF
⭐⭐ was okay but I probably won't look for any sequels
⭐⭐⭐ it was good I'll likely read the next one
⭐⭐⭐⭐ I thoroughly enjoyed it. It was great and I'll definitely be looking for any sequels
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ I loved it so much I'm adding it to my cart to buy paperback
--
Yesterday I told myself I'd do my cat's litter, my physio exercises for my back and write some of my book. Did I do any of those? No, no I did not. From the moment I got home from work, sat down and downloaded this book I was glued to it.
I stayed up late (sorry not sorry, worth it) and finished it practically in one sitting.
The relationship between the guys, the guys and Rylee as well as the guys and Layla was just amazing.
This is a standalone and finishes once Ry on a HFN (I say that because really they're just getting started and whilst book 2 is her brother and his found family they will be right alongside them so we will get to see their relationship grow in the next installment)
December 11, 2023
This book was decent. There wasn't anything that was really "wow" but it was a good sweet reverse harem romance with an abusive ex coming after the girl.
There were some things that made me realize that this author just isn't for me. (This is the second book I've read by Larson.) There is nothing wrong with her writing style, the editing is great, the plot is well thought out. She just doesn't fit my vibe which is fine, I'm sure there are other people that her books are perfect for so I want to go over why that is so others can decide if it works for them.
The characters were okay. But there were certain things about each of them that were kind of... annoying? I personally like very strong possessive alpha vibes with my mmcs.. This is the second book by Larson that I've read and she definitely writes more sensitive mmcs. If you like more sensitive almost weepy? mmcs then this would be perfect, but it wasn't my preference. For example, at one point Rylee is opening up about her traumatic past which causes one of the guys to completely break down. To the point where Rylee doesn't know if she should stop and comfort him. I get that he is caring about what she went through, but it kind of brought the attention to him while she is bearing herself to them all...
When it came to Rylee she was the complete opposite. I found her to be insensitive to the guys feelings. She would "see the hurt in his eyes" and turn away from it and continue doing the things that put the hurt there... She was also super cold towards people but that was because she was tying to protect herself but it added to her harshness towards the mmcs. Honestly it kind of made there be a lack of chemistry because why would they pursue a woman that is rude and doesn't want anything serious? Because you liked her smile when she was looking at her daughter?
My favorite part of this book was when Rylee said "I'm not gonna be one of those girls that leaves to protect the guys" or something like that.. because that is pretty obnoxious when girls do that... but then the guys keep EXTREMELY important information from her later on that ultimately puts her in danger... We traded one annoying trope for another unfortunately.
There were some things that made me realize that this author just isn't for me. (This is the second book I've read by Larson.) There is nothing wrong with her writing style, the editing is great, the plot is well thought out. She just doesn't fit my vibe which is fine, I'm sure there are other people that her books are perfect for so I want to go over why that is so others can decide if it works for them.
The characters were okay. But there were certain things about each of them that were kind of... annoying? I personally like very strong possessive alpha vibes with my mmcs.. This is the second book by Larson that I've read and she definitely writes more sensitive mmcs. If you like more sensitive almost weepy? mmcs then this would be perfect, but it wasn't my preference. For example, at one point Rylee is opening up about her traumatic past which causes one of the guys to completely break down. To the point where Rylee doesn't know if she should stop and comfort him. I get that he is caring about what she went through, but it kind of brought the attention to him while she is bearing herself to them all...
When it came to Rylee she was the complete opposite. I found her to be insensitive to the guys feelings. She would "see the hurt in his eyes" and turn away from it and continue doing the things that put the hurt there... She was also super cold towards people but that was because she was tying to protect herself but it added to her harshness towards the mmcs. Honestly it kind of made there be a lack of chemistry because why would they pursue a woman that is rude and doesn't want anything serious? Because you liked her smile when she was looking at her daughter?
My favorite part of this book was when Rylee said "I'm not gonna be one of those girls that leaves to protect the guys" or something like that.. because that is pretty obnoxious when girls do that... but then the guys keep EXTREMELY important information from her later on that ultimately puts her in danger... We traded one annoying trope for another unfortunately.
May 24, 2025
I absolutely loved Layla—she was hands-down the standout character for me. Honestly, Layla and Jude were the best part of the entire book. If it had been just the two of them, with maybe Gaby joining in to adopt Layla and ride off into the sunset together, I would’ve been perfectly happy. Okay, I know that’s not the actual story and wouldn’t make sense plot-wise, but that’s how strongly I felt about them!
As for Mason and Rylee… The whole “thrown out by their wealthy families” plot didn’t quite add up for me. In reality, old-money families would likely have rushed them into marriage before the baby arrived—especially to avoid scandal. That’s what typically happens, and it’s sad but true. The situation just didn’t feel fully believable, and that took me out of the story a bit. The abuse now that adds up. Especially with the older guy , younger woman trope. BUT having them be married and him holding the money and all the power would have been more realistic.
Now, here’s where it gets tricky in this story: I didn’t fully feel the love between Rylee and guys the way I felt the love between them. Their bond was deep and emotional—I truly believed them. Maybe that’s why the romantic part with Rylee didn’t resonate with me as strongly. It felt like they loved Layla more than they loved her, and while that may not have been the author’s intention, it’s how it came across to me.
Overall, the story had emotional beats and lovable characters (especially Layla!), but I couldn’t quite connect with the central romance. I found myself more invested in the friendships and the love between the men than in Rylee’s arc. Still, Layla stole the show for me—and for that alone, the book was worth reading. Also the backdrop of a South Carolina Beach town was just so sweet. 😊
As for Mason and Rylee… The whole “thrown out by their wealthy families” plot didn’t quite add up for me. In reality, old-money families would likely have rushed them into marriage before the baby arrived—especially to avoid scandal. That’s what typically happens, and it’s sad but true. The situation just didn’t feel fully believable, and that took me out of the story a bit. The abuse now that adds up. Especially with the older guy , younger woman trope. BUT having them be married and him holding the money and all the power would have been more realistic.
Now, here’s where it gets tricky in this story: I didn’t fully feel the love between Rylee and guys the way I felt the love between them. Their bond was deep and emotional—I truly believed them. Maybe that’s why the romantic part with Rylee didn’t resonate with me as strongly. It felt like they loved Layla more than they loved her, and while that may not have been the author’s intention, it’s how it came across to me.
Overall, the story had emotional beats and lovable characters (especially Layla!), but I couldn’t quite connect with the central romance. I found myself more invested in the friendships and the love between the men than in Rylee’s arc. Still, Layla stole the show for me—and for that alone, the book was worth reading. Also the backdrop of a South Carolina Beach town was just so sweet. 😊
November 30, 2023
It’s really interesting that I even picked up this book after dumping and not even being able to finish Larson’s previous book “never moving on.” A quick scroll through “never moving on”’s review showed I wasn’t the only one who found the book ridiculous and terrible. Typically when an author starts off that bad I don’t pick up their second or third or even fourth book-I wait a while to see if there’s writing/content/trope growth maybe a couple years later. So I don’t know what compelled me to even give Larson’s 3rd book a try but I did. And I was incredibly surprised. It’s like a completely different person wrote this book. (The book I DNF’d was published in Aug and this book dropped in November) The story flowed well, the characters were funny and semi relatable, the trauma porn was way way toned down and the writing was far less clunky. Yes the odds of the FMC being in a relationship with 4 dudes and ALSO her 18 year old brother being in a relationship with 3 dudes-is absolutely ridiculous. JJ, Marcus, Jude and Leo are unbelievable in their perfection and the way they talk to each other but I went along with it because it worked for the overall over the top vibe of the book. But I also found the story oddly good. (Now the author inserting her own clearly hurt feelings over her own bad reviews into the FMC was ridiculous and I rolled my eyes every time it came up on the page-you’ve got to develop a thicker skin, letting it leak out into your books feels unprofessional and honestly I almost DNF’d the book soley over that) If this is the kind of growth that Larson managed to pull off in just a few months-I definitely will be picked up her next book.
January 21, 2024
this was fine. i had a good time reading it, but i just wish it were a little more. the guys are lovely, rylee is doing her best to heal from her trauma, and layla and gabby are excellent bits of fun and sunshine sprinkled in.
i don’t really have any major criticisms here, but it’s more just that the emotional issues everyone suffers from aren’t really balanced.
everyone likes and cares for each other, but you don’t really get a solid grip on why? especially when it comes to rylee? she’s rather brash and rude to all of the guys as they meet her, which makes sense since it’s a defense mechanism. but it’s rather strange that all these guys take one look at her and are like “hmm she’s pretty rude and acting a little strange…i want to date her.”
this whole book could just use a little more warmth and playful energy. i get that it’s a recovery narrative, and i don’t expect those to be the happiest books, but i do expect a little more fleshing out of the characters, about what they love about each other.
it kinda just feels like the guys love rylee because she’s a good mom, and rylee loves them because they’re nice to her and layla. which, obviously, are good things…they’re just not enough reason to fall in love as deeply as we’re supposed to understand that they do.
i don’t really have any major criticisms here, but it’s more just that the emotional issues everyone suffers from aren’t really balanced.
everyone likes and cares for each other, but you don’t really get a solid grip on why? especially when it comes to rylee? she’s rather brash and rude to all of the guys as they meet her, which makes sense since it’s a defense mechanism. but it’s rather strange that all these guys take one look at her and are like “hmm she’s pretty rude and acting a little strange…i want to date her.”
this whole book could just use a little more warmth and playful energy. i get that it’s a recovery narrative, and i don’t expect those to be the happiest books, but i do expect a little more fleshing out of the characters, about what they love about each other.
it kinda just feels like the guys love rylee because she’s a good mom, and rylee loves them because they’re nice to her and layla. which, obviously, are good things…they’re just not enough reason to fall in love as deeply as we’re supposed to understand that they do.
November 29, 2023
This book had me from the first chapter.
The stories pace is perfect, it will have you finishing the book and wishing it didn't end!
Rylees story was such a pleasure to read, I was teary eyed in some scenes, laughing at others, I had the biggest smile.
Layla was just the cutest thing. A strong and sassy little girl who did made sure her mom and the boys were kept busy!
The interactions between all the character was amazing.
And the spicy scenes were 🌶🌶🌶🌶 needed to step outside for some cool air 😅🤣
The men, JJ, Jude, Leo and Marc, oh my! They took such care in trying to break down Rylees walls, and find a way to get through and be a part of their lives.
I'll take one of each 😅
The best friend Pixie, yes we all have our wine o clock besties who know exactly when they are needed and her timing was perfect each time!
I don't want to mention any spoilers in this review, because you just have to go read the book, I will be recommending this to all of my friends who enjoy reading.
If you love Whychoose, MMMMF, guys fall first, protective men, with some grovelling in, then this is 100% a book you must read.
This book is one for the bookshelf! I cannot wait for your next book! I may just need to read it again because I enjoyed it that much!
The stories pace is perfect, it will have you finishing the book and wishing it didn't end!
Rylees story was such a pleasure to read, I was teary eyed in some scenes, laughing at others, I had the biggest smile.
Layla was just the cutest thing. A strong and sassy little girl who did made sure her mom and the boys were kept busy!
The interactions between all the character was amazing.
And the spicy scenes were 🌶🌶🌶🌶 needed to step outside for some cool air 😅🤣
The men, JJ, Jude, Leo and Marc, oh my! They took such care in trying to break down Rylees walls, and find a way to get through and be a part of their lives.
I'll take one of each 😅
The best friend Pixie, yes we all have our wine o clock besties who know exactly when they are needed and her timing was perfect each time!
I don't want to mention any spoilers in this review, because you just have to go read the book, I will be recommending this to all of my friends who enjoy reading.
If you love Whychoose, MMMMF, guys fall first, protective men, with some grovelling in, then this is 100% a book you must read.
This book is one for the bookshelf! I cannot wait for your next book! I may just need to read it again because I enjoyed it that much!
January 19, 2024
Fantastic read
I absolutely loved this book. Please make sure to read the author's note and triggers because there are some. This is a standalone book but the next ones will be interconnected. Rylee is running from her abusive husband with her five-year-old daughter. She makes sure to make it fun for her daughter, like an adventure but Rylee isn't comfortable long anywhere. Layla is so cute and I swear wise beyond her years.
When she moves to South Carolina, she meets Gabby, a pink hair bubbly girl who I think is a perfect friend for Rylee. Along the way, she also meets four different men Leo, Marcus, Jude, and Jackson. Each so different than tje other but have been friends as well as some lovers for awhile.
They are intrigued by Rylee but she is guarded and they just want to break down her walls. Along with caring for the spitfire Layla.
This book had me in tears during parts that almost broke my heart and fanning myself on other parts. Who boy there's some steamy scenes.
Cannot wait for next book.
I absolutely loved this book. Please make sure to read the author's note and triggers because there are some. This is a standalone book but the next ones will be interconnected. Rylee is running from her abusive husband with her five-year-old daughter. She makes sure to make it fun for her daughter, like an adventure but Rylee isn't comfortable long anywhere. Layla is so cute and I swear wise beyond her years.
When she moves to South Carolina, she meets Gabby, a pink hair bubbly girl who I think is a perfect friend for Rylee. Along the way, she also meets four different men Leo, Marcus, Jude, and Jackson. Each so different than tje other but have been friends as well as some lovers for awhile.
They are intrigued by Rylee but she is guarded and they just want to break down her walls. Along with caring for the spitfire Layla.
This book had me in tears during parts that almost broke my heart and fanning myself on other parts. Who boy there's some steamy scenes.
Cannot wait for next book.
October 1, 2024
FMC: Rylee
MMCs: Jackson, Marcus, Jude, and Leo
Tropes: why choose, single mom, m/m/m/m, past domestic violence and abuse, fresh start, trauma, ptsd
Spice Rating: 3
Series: Yes - Interconnected Standalone Series Wherever We Go - Book One
POV: Multiple
Cliffhanger: No
I’ve enjoyed books by this author before but I’m not sure this particular one was for me. It had an interesting story but it seemed a bit out of sorts. Mainly, the why choose aspect of it. Most that I’ve read primarily focus on the female. Some might include some m/m scenes and sword crossing which is fine. However, this one felt like there was a lot going on for the group in the sense it didn’t truly feel like a reverse harem and is definitely more of a “why choose” all around. I don’t know if I’m making sense but think pre-existing relationships among the guys that are unresolved and then throw in a single mom and her daughter on the run. It wasn’t cohesive in the way the other books I’ve read by this author have been.
MMCs: Jackson, Marcus, Jude, and Leo
Tropes: why choose, single mom, m/m/m/m, past domestic violence and abuse, fresh start, trauma, ptsd
Spice Rating: 3
Series: Yes - Interconnected Standalone Series Wherever We Go - Book One
POV: Multiple
Cliffhanger: No
I’ve enjoyed books by this author before but I’m not sure this particular one was for me. It had an interesting story but it seemed a bit out of sorts. Mainly, the why choose aspect of it. Most that I’ve read primarily focus on the female. Some might include some m/m scenes and sword crossing which is fine. However, this one felt like there was a lot going on for the group in the sense it didn’t truly feel like a reverse harem and is definitely more of a “why choose” all around. I don’t know if I’m making sense but think pre-existing relationships among the guys that are unresolved and then throw in a single mom and her daughter on the run. It wasn’t cohesive in the way the other books I’ve read by this author have been.
November 28, 2023
Great Book.
This book is a polyamorous MMMMF romance written in first person and mainly told from the FMC and MMCs points of view, although there are a few place we are given the FMCs daughters perspective. Personally I think this book is a medium burn with low-medium spice. I loved how much of a momma bear the FMC was and how she and her daughter both looked out for each other. I also enjoyed watching the relationships develop between not just the FMC and the MMCs but between all the MMCs as well. Overall, even though this book really put me through an emotional ringer, I enjoyed reading as much as other books of Y V Larsons’ that I’ve read and I found myself connecting with the characters and empathising with what they were going through which felt like a roller coaster at times.
This book is a polyamorous MMMMF romance written in first person and mainly told from the FMC and MMCs points of view, although there are a few place we are given the FMCs daughters perspective. Personally I think this book is a medium burn with low-medium spice. I loved how much of a momma bear the FMC was and how she and her daughter both looked out for each other. I also enjoyed watching the relationships develop between not just the FMC and the MMCs but between all the MMCs as well. Overall, even though this book really put me through an emotional ringer, I enjoyed reading as much as other books of Y V Larsons’ that I’ve read and I found myself connecting with the characters and empathising with what they were going through which felt like a roller coaster at times.
November 29, 2023
Y V Larson has struck again. I absolutely adore this story but it moved too quickly and left me wanting more about this family of six.
Jackson, Marcus, Jude and Leo have their own issues they need to work out. But once they get their own relationship figured out can they find the perfect girl. Riley and her daughter are on the run from her ex and never stay any where for very long. Can these four men change that? What happens when Riley's ex catches up to them? Do these six get a happily ever after?
I adored the story and I look forward to reading the next book even though it doesn't revolve around these same characters. It is a unique world and the characters were good. The plot was different and it was well paced. I had some issues with the flow of the story though so it wasn't a perfect book but it was pretty damn close.
Jackson, Marcus, Jude and Leo have their own issues they need to work out. But once they get their own relationship figured out can they find the perfect girl. Riley and her daughter are on the run from her ex and never stay any where for very long. Can these four men change that? What happens when Riley's ex catches up to them? Do these six get a happily ever after?
I adored the story and I look forward to reading the next book even though it doesn't revolve around these same characters. It is a unique world and the characters were good. The plot was different and it was well paced. I had some issues with the flow of the story though so it wasn't a perfect book but it was pretty damn close.
January 2, 2024
Never now what you find at the end of the 🌈 or a pixie lol
I loved the book. I did however find it to much for someone who had PTSD. I Thought the guys pushed to much. They had no right to demand answers and I thought she gave in to easily. I've been where she is and it's not easy and yes everyone has their own coping but seriously she told them to Mind their business and liking her or not shouldnt of pushed. I ment what I said and loved the book. I loved the multi POVS even with her daughter and friend in the POVS too.. and I absolutly loved that Tate came into the picture and had POVs and he was the one that took out the monster to save his sister and I can't wait for Tates story i wish we would of got to see the dinner with Tates guys and them being introduced atleast and I can't wait to see more of these guys as the author has suggested.
I loved the book. I did however find it to much for someone who had PTSD. I Thought the guys pushed to much. They had no right to demand answers and I thought she gave in to easily. I've been where she is and it's not easy and yes everyone has their own coping but seriously she told them to Mind their business and liking her or not shouldnt of pushed. I ment what I said and loved the book. I loved the multi POVS even with her daughter and friend in the POVS too.. and I absolutly loved that Tate came into the picture and had POVs and he was the one that took out the monster to save his sister and I can't wait for Tates story i wish we would of got to see the dinner with Tates guys and them being introduced atleast and I can't wait to see more of these guys as the author has suggested.
December 7, 2023
first book by this author and I’m hooked.
Rylee and Layla have been through so much but still push through to get through the day.
If I were Rylee I just don’t think I could do what she does. But she just proves what being a mom is. The love of a child is amazing! And Layla is such a sweet special girl!!
Marcus, Leo, Jude, and Jackson are one of a kind and I absolutely love their love story! Individually and together. I love them all and that one look at Rylee and Layla and they were there for them no questions asked….. well almost not asked 😂 cough cough Jackson.
And Gabby and that friendship is to die for!! I love it.
Clearly I just love it all!!
Can’t wait to read Tates story!!!
Rylee and Layla have been through so much but still push through to get through the day.
If I were Rylee I just don’t think I could do what she does. But she just proves what being a mom is. The love of a child is amazing! And Layla is such a sweet special girl!!
Marcus, Leo, Jude, and Jackson are one of a kind and I absolutely love their love story! Individually and together. I love them all and that one look at Rylee and Layla and they were there for them no questions asked….. well almost not asked 😂 cough cough Jackson.
And Gabby and that friendship is to die for!! I love it.
Clearly I just love it all!!
Can’t wait to read Tates story!!!
November 28, 2023
Just You and Me is another great read from Y. V. Larson complete with a fiery redhead coming into her own, a precocious little girl, a pixie and 4 mouth watering guys! The individual relationships between all of the characters were intricate and beautifully written and left me wanting more. I can’t wait for book 2-this book does have a HEA (I was a little worried for awhile that there wouldn’t be one at the end) and I have it on good authority that there is more of these characters to come in the next book! Please read the triggers carefully before reading. Τhere characters have been through a lot and Y. V. Larson really pulls at your heart with this one.
February 21, 2024
3/5 stars
This book is hard to rate. I got very close to DNFing at one point, but I pushed through and finished it and I am glad that I did. This book had a good plot but I just found myself wanting to put it down at times. I felt that it raised awareness, and covered those heavier topics well.
I feel that the ending was pretty rushed. It don’t feel rushed, but the main conflict was wrapped up in a page or two. I will also say that some of the things or the way that the characters acted didn’t feel natural all of the time.
Overall I really did like the characters, and I am happy with the ending of the book :)
This book is hard to rate. I got very close to DNFing at one point, but I pushed through and finished it and I am glad that I did. This book had a good plot but I just found myself wanting to put it down at times. I felt that it raised awareness, and covered those heavier topics well.
I feel that the ending was pretty rushed. It don’t feel rushed, but the main conflict was wrapped up in a page or two. I will also say that some of the things or the way that the characters acted didn’t feel natural all of the time.
Overall I really did like the characters, and I am happy with the ending of the book :)
April 19, 2024
Now, I know I gave it a low rating compared to what I usually give books but hear me out!!
Although this was so sweet and the hurt/comfort trope was done wonderfully (which is exactly what I wanted from this book so I'm satisfied) I felt like there was something missing.
I'm going to sound like a lunatic but this would have been better without the guys??? What? I know this is insane.
It's just that the growth and healing journey of Layla (omg almost my name) and her lovely momma Ry was so heart-wrenching and real, I almost felt as if the guys were intruding or something???
IDK YA'LL I enjoyed it so whatever, lord knows I'm not a good critic, BUT THE SMUT WAS GOOD!
Although this was so sweet and the hurt/comfort trope was done wonderfully (which is exactly what I wanted from this book so I'm satisfied) I felt like there was something missing.
I'm going to sound like a lunatic but this would have been better without the guys??? What? I know this is insane.
It's just that the growth and healing journey of Layla (omg almost my name) and her lovely momma Ry was so heart-wrenching and real, I almost felt as if the guys were intruding or something???
IDK YA'LL I enjoyed it so whatever, lord knows I'm not a good critic, BUT THE SMUT WAS GOOD!
November 26, 2023
Just You & Me was an amazing book to read, it does have some trauma related triggers (see blurb) but it opened my eyes to a whole other concept of emotion. This book not only had hilarious character banter happening, but it also showed how these characters can encounter real life emotional situations. It was a beautiful story. But it was also super steamy with sexy parts too and I mean come on the guys all sounded super hot also!!! Definitely a must read if you love a good emotional story mixed with some sexy, steamy parts and then of course an HEA!!
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