Since the Day We Kissed

by Kerk Murray

First love, second chances, and secrets that could destroy it all.

When Ethan Bennett returns to Hadley Cove after twenty- two years, Kara Walker is forced to confront the past she thought she'd left behind. With his rescue dog, Hero, at his side, Ethan is stirring up more than just old memories.

As they navigate their tangled past, Kara and Ethan must decide: keep their secrets hidden and lose each other forever, or risk it all for a love they thought was lost.

When secrets begin to unravel, will the truth set them free? Or will it shatter their second chance at happiness?

Genres: Romance

294 pages, Kindle Edition

Published September 26, 2024

About the author

Kerk Murray is an Amazon Top 50 and Barnes & Noble bestselling author of clean contemporary romance. His series include Dog Lovers, Hadley Cove Sweet Romance, and Sugarberry Ridge Holiday Romance.

Fans of Rachel Hanna and Debbie Macomber will love his Southern small-town stories about second chances—featuring swoony heroes, strong heroines, and rescue animals that you'll fall in love with too.

Beyond writing, Kerk is the founder of The Lexi's Legacy Foundation, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit that helps animal rescues save more lives. A portion of his book proceeds supports this mission because every animal deserves a forever home.

Connect with Kerk and sign up for his newsletter at www.kerkmurray.com for new releases and exclusive sneak peeks of upcoming books.

For film and subsidiary rights inquiries: info@kerkmurray.com

Follow Kerk:
Goodreads: www.goodreads.com/author/show/2171938...
Bookbub: www.bookbub.com/profile/kerk-murray
Amazon: www.amazon.com/KerkMurray/e/B09C39NLYT
Instagram: www.instagram.com/kerkmurray
TikTok: www.tiktok.com/@kerkmurray
Facebook: www.facebook.com/kerkwrites

Reviews

[Gloria · Rating 5 out of 5]

Since the Day We Kissed is a return to Hadley Cove, a beach town on the Georgia coast, and the sweet love story of two people who parted with misunderstandings and hurt that was never resolved until now, twenty years later. Kara is a single mom running an animal rescue, but she never forgot about Ethan and the summer they fell in love. She lost her mom to an accident and Ethan left for the army at the same time. Ethan is back for a short time to close his father's estate. When Kara's daughter, arriving home from college, is involved in a car accident, Ethan is able to come to her aid. This is a story of rekindling a friendship and maybe romance with two hurting people who need healing and reconciliation and also one of secrets that need to be revealed so that that can happen. Lovely story added to the series., stories that can be read as a standalone.
I received a copy for the purpose of an honest review. These are my thoughts.

[Tamzin · Rating 5 out of 5]

Loved it 🥰 I was super excited to read the next instalment of the Hadley Cove series and I was not disappointed. Like others have said, it is a slow burn romance but definitely worth the read

[Glenda Bettin · Rating 3 out of 5]

It was good but I found it dragged in areas

[Natalia Devargas · Rating 5 out of 5]

I love Hadley Cove series this is book#3 and it's another hit. A sweet romantic feel me good novel about second chances. I moved into Hadley cove and I'm loving my time there. Can't wait to read the next book.

[Dawn Griffith · Rating 3 out of 5]

3.5 Stars! This was a sweet second-chance romance that pulls you right back into the emotional whirlwind of first loves and unfinished business. Ethan Bennett returns to Hadley Cove after twenty-two years, bringing along his adorable rescue dog, Hero (who totally steals the show, by the way). Kara Walker, the girl he left behind, is forced to face a past she thought was long buried—and let's just say, sparks fly.

Ethan and Kara’s chemistry is undeniable, but what really stood out was the emotional depth behind their reunion. They both have secrets, regrets, and all that complicated stuff that comes with reconnecting after two decades apart. You can feel the weight of their past, but also the hope for something new. It’s the kind of story that reminds you that love can survive time and distance—if you’re brave enough to let it.

There were some parts that felt a bit slow, especially when the characters were doing a lot of internal back-and-forth, but overall the pacing works for the story. The slower moments give space to really feel the tension and unresolved emotions between Ethan and Kara. By the end, it’s totally worth it as they finally figure out if they’re willing to risk it all for love.

If you're into emotional, slow-burn romance with characters that have a lot of history and heart, Since the Day We Kissed is definitely one to check out!

Thanks to NetGalley and Publisher for the opportunity to receive the ARC.

[Beyond the Pages with Eva K · Rating 4 out of 5]

Quick Summary: A second chance, PTSD story

My Review: Since the Day We Kissed by Kerk Murray is book #3 on the Hadley Cove Sweet Romance series. It was published in 2024.

About the Book: "First love, second chances, and secrets that could destroy it all. When secrets begin to unravel, will the truth set them free? Or will it shatter their second chance at happiness?"

In My Own Words: Young love that was never fully realized. Secrets and regrets. Tragedy and forgiveness. Truths and reconciliation. Rescues all around.

My Final Say: This novel had a whole lot of heart and some very big emotions. Ethan and Kara endured so much. Love helped them to overcome what stood against them. Their second chance story is a keeper.

Other: Hadley Cove is a special place with special people experiencing special circumstances.

Rating: 4/5
Recommend: Yes
Audience: A
Re-read: Yes
Keeper: Yes
Status/Level: 💛
Special Note: I would love to listen to this as an audiobook.

Sincere appreciation is extended to the author, to the publisher (BooksGoSocial), and to NetGalley. Thank you for granting me with an opportunity to review this meaningful work. It has been an absolute pleasure to meet the residents of Hadley Cove. I look forward to continuing with the series.

[Lia Lorimer · Rating 5 out of 5]

Second chances for humans and dogs 😊
Kara’s life’s work is in trying to find good homes for the dogs she cares for in her shelter. Reaching capacity amid financial constraints results in extra stress, which is worsened by discovering that her high-school boyfriend, Ethan, was back in town and had been the person to assist her daughter after an accident.
Kara knows she will have to expose old secrets but is shocked when she learns the true reasons for Ethan’s perceived desertion over twenty years ago.
This novel highlights the unwitting impact parents play on the lives of their children by parents when they attempt to control circumstances. The author uses an easy-to-read writing style, characters the reader is drawn to and a twist to the plot that keeps interest levels high right to the end of the novel.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

[Roberta Cox · Rating 5 out of 5]

I won this book in exchange for an honest review, so thank you, Kerk Murray for the opportunity.
First, the spoiler - all the dogs live happily ever after! Second, and one of the most phenomenal things, the purchase of his books helps a number of rescues listed in the very back of his books. That alone makes me feel guilty about winning his books. Everyone should buy copies for all your friends & family!

This is the third book in the Hadley Cove series and it looks like there are more to come! I don’t think they need to be read in order to follow what is happening with recurring characters. I do, however, suggest you read them all. They are clean, sweet books that end better than any fairy tale. If I didn’t have to work for a living, I would fly through them in no time!
Bonus - he’s included some recipes. Who doesn’t love to have a few new recipes?

[Ivana Dixon · Rating 4 out of 5]

A heart warming story of forgiveness and second chances. Kerk Murray's Since The Day We Kissed is second chance perfection. Kara knows all about second chances. She runs an animal rescue in small town Hadley Cove. Unfortunately, the rescue has seen better days. With adoptions down, no volunteers and bills stacking up, Kara is running out of options. Just when all hope seems lost, Ethan returns to Hadley Cove with some fresh ideas for the rescue and an old flame for Kara. Seems the rescues aren't the only ones looking for home.
This was a really good book and I absolutely fell in love with the main characters. Ethan and Kara had a lot to overcome. So many secrets that could have destroyed them. I was absolutely cheering on this sweet couple.

Thank you, Book Sirens and Magnolia Press for an ARC in exchange for an honest review.

[Kathy · Rating 5 out of 5]

Delightful story of young lovers separated due to many misunderstandings. The story starts with them as teenagers and a sudden split after her mother is killed in a car accident. Her father blames both of them (especially him), since they were out looking for Kara. Ethan goes into the miltary and makes it impossible for anyone (including his dad) to find him.
Over twenty years later, he is back in Hadley Cove and it's time for a second chance for them, just like Kara's rescue for pets. They both have a heart for doing pet rescues. There is another item that they both share as well. Her dad is still trying to keep them apart but life has other plans than that. HIs dad has passed away, so there isn't a second chance there but Ethan will find some resolution.
This story tugs at your heart.

I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Note: Original review was for a different book - sorry for the confusion.

[Lauren Fleischer · Rating 5 out of 5]

I was throughly engaged in the third book of the Hadley Cove Romance. The prior 2 books I loved just the same. Kerk's writing is so effortless to read and pulls you into Hadley Cove immediatley. Each page so flawlessly leads you to the next with the need to know how the love interests of each book will persevere in their relationship. While reading these love stories on ebook is not the same as holding the book, I was intrigued to keep reading to see how Ethan and Kara reunite. Kara's passion and life's work is one that is truly inspiring, heart-warming, and demanding. Despite the past decisions of characters in this story, redemption and starting over is shown to change each of them for the better. I strongly suggest reading each of Kerk's books for his writing style, development of characters, and compassionate heart for people and animals alike. You will not be disappointed. :)

[Melissa Woods · Rating 5 out of 5]

Kara is trying her best to keep her animal rescue for dogs going. But when she realises that Ethan, her first love is back in town, she is unsure of what to do.

Ethan has his own issues from being at war and dealing with the after effects of it. But helping Kara and the animals gives him peace. Especially once he gets the answers he is looking for at his Dad’s house.

But Kara has a secret that she is hiding in plain sight and wants to explain it.

Returning to Hadleys Cove was an enjoyable moment as I had a chance to reconnect with previous characters and of the animals.

Kerk has a way with words that allow you to feel what he is trying to project in the storyline.

[Melissa · Rating 5 out of 5]

I devoured this entire story. I read this book in one day! This was a beautiful story about a second chance. It touched on meaningful topics such as mental health and what veterans deal with on a daily basis. I loved Ethan and his dog Hero. His story was so captivating. I really adored Kara and her love for animals. I can relate to her on that for sure! She ran an animal rescue by herself and was in desperate need of help and funds. Ethan came back to town at the perfect time. The way they found each other again was quite the story. I loved this book from start to finish. I look forward to ready more books by Kerk Murray!

[Patty · Rating 4 out of 5]

Enjoyed!

This is the third book set in Hadley Cove, but reads like a standalone with no problem. Kara and Ethan have a history, but do they have a future?

So many things have kept these two apart for 20 years, but when they meet again, the feelings are still there. But so are the secrets that drove them apart in the first place.

This is a clean, easy read and I’m looking forward to the next book in this series.

Thanks to the author, publisher and NetGalley for the opportunity to read and review this book, but my opinions are my own.

[Ann-Maree · Rating 3 out of 5]

"Since the Day We Kissed" by Kerk Murray tells the captivating story of Ethan Bennett, who makes a sudden return to Hadley Cove after twenty-two years, bringing along his loyal rescue dog, Hero. This long-awaited homecoming compels Kara Walker, the woman he left behind, to confront a past she had long sought to bury. Ethan's reappearance reignites a whirlwind of emotions and memories for both Kara and Ethan, delving into themes of lost love, forgiveness, truth, and the possibility of second chances. If you're an animal lover, this is perfect for you.

[Zelia Gonsalves · Rating 5 out of 5]

Book 3 of the Hadley Cove series and I tried to read it slowly so it never ends😊I absolutely love this series and I want to never leave Hadley Cove. The characters are the sweetest and I enjoy seeing the other characters from the different books make an appearance. It’s like i get to visit my friends and catch up, am excited for book 4 ( which I already preordered) and the extra bonuses that Kerk Murray adds in his book is always a pleasant surprise. As an animal lover these books just melt my heart ❤️ so make sure you read this series!

[Karla · Rating 5 out of 5]

A captivating second chance for happily ever after love. This is also an emotional story for keeping the communication lines open between family members. You never know when you may not have the chance to make amends. Kara and Ethan were high school sweethearts. Tragedy strikes and they take different paths. Over twenty years later they meet again. An excellent read.

I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

[Barb Hegreberg · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is the third book I have read in the Hadley Cove series. Each book can be read as a standalone because the shared characters are reintroduced in a way appropriate to the current story. If you enjoy stories that feature man’s-best-friend, you won’t be disappointed here.

I received this book free from the author, publisher, or other source. My only obligation is to provide a fair and honest review.

[Becky Durstenfeld · Rating 4 out of 5]

I enjoyed this sweet romance. There was little drama in it. I was surprised that Kara excepted Ethan so easily without talking about what happened in the past. They did eventually. This is a happily ever after story for everyone, even the animals. It deals with some serious topics such as alcoholism, drunk driving, death, loss, forgiveness, etc. but it. is not a heavy book to read; it is more encouraging.

[CORINNE · Rating 4 out of 5]

I received an advanced reader copy of this book and am reviewing it voluntarily

This was quite a sad read all considered

How awful are parents interfering in their children’s lives in the way this father did I have experienced it to a degree myself they think they know better as you are young yet they cause such misery and heartbreak

In this case karma brought two your lovers back together in a strange way

A lovely heartwarming ending even though many years were lost to them

[Nancy · Rating 4 out of 5]

Since the Day We Kissed is part of the Hadley Cove series. I enjoyed it a lot and plan to get the first two in the series.
I like second chance romance books, and this one was so well written that I felt connected to the characters. Ethan and Kara’s had excellent chemistry.
I am grateful to have found a new author that writes sweet clean romance.
Thank you NetGalley, Kerk Murray and BooksGoSocial for the copy of the book Since the Day We Kissed. This is my personal review.

[Elaine · Rating 5 out of 5]

Several furry friends like Hero and Benny steal the show in another trip to Hadley Cove!

There are broken promises and dreams, alcoholism and abandonment, yet second chances come for both animals and people in this beautiful story which follows Kara, who owns Second Chance Animal Rescue and Ethan, who has returned after a 22 year absence.

Thoroughly recommend this - please read!

I received this advanced copy through BookSirens and this is my own opinion given voluntarily.

[Eris · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is a good book. The two main characters are Kara and Ethan. They dated in their teenage years, until some tragic event happened. Some twenty years later, they meet again. Kara runs an animal rescue, Ethan come to the rescue because they are having an event. The attraction is still there. They start seeing each other. They are at Kara’s dad pharmacy, when a robbery happens.. they are alright, but they realize they love each other still.

[Jacqueline Johnston Cotton · Rating 5 out of 5]

A wonderful second-chance romance that will warm your heart. This book had plenty of sweetness and forgiveness. You'll fall in love with the setting and characters. They are realistic and so well written. I loved the animal rescue element of the storyline. This really was a beautiful story. I enjoyed every page.

[Serenechaosnyc · Rating 5 out of 5]

What can I say...an animal lover and a romance? Sign me up. A sweet romance indeed, Ethan and Kara finally get their HEA after losing each other in the past. With Hero, the dog and Kara's animal shelter, animal lovers like myself get a healthy dose of animals to swoon over as well as the romance itself, which was well faced and oh so sweet I look forward to the next one!

[Taylor · Rating 4 out of 5]

I really enjoyed this novel! I think Kerk did great with letting the reader dive into Ethan’s past without making it too info dumpy and distracting to the overall storyline. The flashback scenes were really engaging. Just like Ethan’s story, Kara’s story was just as engaging and interesting. There are several scenes that will definitely be sticking with me!

[Ashlyn · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book was even better than the first two of the series and I didn’t think that could be possible! I’m in love with this series, the town it takes place in and the characters. I could not recommend this enough!

I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

[Ellen · Rating 5 out of 5]

Since the Day We Kissed by Kerk Murray is the third book in the Hadley Cove series. It is a well-written, clean romance based on Christian principles. The story is captivating, with realistic characters. It is an emotional story that touches your heart. It is a story that completely absorbs you, and you just want to know how it ends

[D.]

I really enjoyed this book with Kara and Ethan. They really had a lot to work through together and on their own. The story did not shy away from anything which really made them relatable. This was a great story. I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

[Jessica Hembree · Rating 5 out of 5]

Another absolutely wonderful and sweet story from Kerk! Loved it! Just like his others in this series, the main characters read like actual, real people. I love the inclusion of dogs in the story. I also love the recipes and book club questions at the end.