In an ever-changing and complex world, it can be hard to find love. But there’s a new company called TruLove, and they offer people a chance to take a few tests and receive a list of the top ten people on the planet that they could be happy with. No more of this ‘one person in the world for each person.’ TruLove has been growing ever more popular as more and more people decide to get their lists, reach out to their connections, and go in search of love.
Arden was forced to take the TruLove test as a teenager by her heartbroken mother who didn’t want Arden to be miserable like her. But it’s not until Arden gets injured as an adult and has no one to come to the hospital that her list is actually revealed to her against her wishes. People begin to show up, wanting to meet their connection, but Arden isn’t interested.
Freya only took the test because her partner at the time convinced her to do it. After finding out they weren’t on each other’s lists, that partner left Freya heartbroken and hating TruLove and everything it stood for. When she later gets a call telling her that one of her connections is in the hospital, Freya doesn’t know what to do. Deciding to see Ardern after all, she can’t seem to stay away now.
The only problem is that TruLove might not be about love at all. And when Arden discovers that, it puts her and Freya in unexpected danger.
NOTE: While TruLove is a prequel to SoulMatch, it takes place centuries earlier, so there are no repeat characters in this world’s origin story.
Nicole Pyland is a bestselling author of lesbian romance novels, including No After You, All the Love Songs, and the series like Chicago, San Francisco, Tahoe, Sports, Boston, and more. Since 2017, she’s published over 30 novels (not including her What Happened After shorts), and more books are on their way!
Nicole grew up in Indiana, studying English & Film and then getting a MS in Behavior Analysis and moving to California, working by day as a Head of Training at a start-up. She lives with her wife and their opinionated cat, who spends his evenings helping her write stories by occupying half the chair.
'Arc provided by The Author in exchange for an unbiased review'
**'When a writer write any of their storyline carefully even dangling relatable characters and not use words/sentences repetitively -- only then will their storytelling be deem satisfactory..'
Nice read! rtc....another interesting story and i'll say it again -- Pyland keeps upping her craftiness by weaving into telling scifi-ish love stories. A recommended book!
The second book in the TruLove universe. The books can be read as standalone.
After reading the first book I was hoping Pyland would fine her “sci-fi” groove and really dig into it. This book doesn’t qualify as a science fiction read, it is much more your standard romance. I am mildly disappointed in how Pyland set up this mystery in the book and having one of the mains trying to uncover all sorts of things on a company behind a dating app extraordinaire. Towards the end it really amps up and then bam we have an epilogue that is set after it all went down. I think the middle part could have been shorter and the end with the resolution and uncovering of the company could have been more fleshed out. I would have preferred that over the way it is now.
Overall it’s a fine read, just a bit standard and missed opportunities 🤷🏻♀️
Arden isn’t looking for love especially from some list. Freya had her life turned upside down by the list. Great sci-fi story with love and passion. This is one of those stories you have to read for yourself and be amazed. There are a few heart stopping moments and a whole lot of heat between the main characters. I love this new world Nicole has created.
TruLove is a slow-burn romance that explores the concept of finding your perfect match through science. It is set in the same universe as Nicole Pyland’s previous book SoulMatch, but it can be read as a stand-alone novel. The story follows Arden, who has never been interested in taking the TruLove test that claims to find her ten best matches. Her mother signed her up for it when she was a teenager, but she never looked at her list. However, a curious nurse decides to meddle with her fate and sends out a message to her matches. Arden reluctantly agrees to meet some of them, and friendships are formed, but she only feels a connection with Freya, who she starts chatting with through the app. Freya has a different perspective on TruLove. She hates the company and the test, because they ruined her last relationship. Her ex-girlfriend left her after finding out they were not on each other’s lists. When Freya spot’s Arden from a distance, the attraction is undeniable. When they finally meet, both women feel it. But their romance is not without complications, as they get involved in a dangerous plot to expose the corruption within TruLove. Freya and Arden are both strong, independent, and likable characters, who have to overcome their doubts and fears to be together. Pyland’s writing is engaging and captivating, as she balances the romance with the suspense and the intrigue. TruLove is a great read for fans of sci-fi, romance, and drama.
TruLove by Nicole Pyland is an age-gap Sci-Fi Romance that immerses readers in a futuristic world. From the first chapter onwards, this book held my attention with its immersive storytelling and interesting narrative, making it a very engrossing read.
Arden, after undertaking the TruLove tests at fourteen, has chosen not to peruse the results of her top ten potential romantic matches. In the event of an unfortunate accident, the individuals listed are contacted. Freya is among the contacts; nevertheless, her association with the company TruLove leaves much to be desired, and she is less than impressed at being contacted.
The captivating emotional connection and chemistry between Arden and Freya create a strong sense of empathy and a compelling yearning for their shared future. The reader is skilfully transported into the heart of the action through vivid and detailed scene setting.
Another thought provoking and memorable read from Nicole, fingers crossed for more of this series.
While SoulMatch: a TruLove Universe book was released first, and I gushed about that book, this one is pretty great too. Same alt-U as SoulMatch but the setting is way before hand. I'd argue you could def read them out of order if you wanted. I've read nearly everything by this author and yet was completely blown away by this alt-U, sorta not really, sci-fi lite series that she's started. It's such a departure but wow is it really good. I'm not going to spoil anything but recommend that folks give it a try.
Oh Freya and Arden, you were so sweet. The TruLove Universe really captured my attention, I feel as though there was so much that could be explored in the book but we barely got started! I am not always a fan of insta love but it worked here. I recommend to all that enjoy Scify and romance!
TruLove is the second book in the sci-fi universe that Pyland has created with her last two books. This is not a series so it can be read as a standalone novel.
I liked the premise of the novel. Take a test and you get a top 10 list of people who you are compatible with. Basically taking one of the more difficult parts of online dating out of the equation.
Arden took her test when she was younger since her mom brought her along with her when she was tested and Freya only went along with getting tested when her partner wanted to take the test to prove that they were on the same list. Both of the main characters aren’t sold on the lists for different reasons but when Arden is injured a nurse reaches out to all her matches and sets the story in motion.
I enjoy reading most if not all of Pyland’s novels and TruLove is no exception. The romance between the two characters is genuine and steamy. I did find after reading SoulMatch that the corporation takedown in this one fell a little flat in comparison. I would’ve liked a little more in depth with regard to that but overall it still was a good read. I recommend it to anyone who enjoys Pyland’s work.
ARC received from the author in exchange for an honest review.
As this is the second book set in the TruLove Universe, I was expecting more of a SciFi/dystopian feel to it like the previous book. However, as this book is a standalone, it occurs a lot earlier in the “TruLove Universe” history than the previous book. It had a lot less of a SciFi/dystopian feel and more of a standard romance with a cautionary futuristic vibe. The story between Arden and Freya focuses on a dating app that is “science” based and uses your DNA to match you with a list of 10 matches that you can be equally happy with.
This book is definitely a slow burn, as it takes a while for Freya and Arden to actually meet in person. With both characters having reservations about the accuracy of their “list”, neither of them put any real faith in finding their true love through the app. I really feel like this book has two stories/plots combined into one. The first is the love story between Arden and Freya. The second plot, which I won’t go into much detail so I don’t spoil anything, is deeper throughout the book and involves taking down a greedy corporation. The last half of the book is filled with action and suspense.
Overall, while I love Nicole Pyland’s writing and I did really enjoy this book, I do wish it was released before Soul Match.
The characters are compelling, the story line is intriguing and the sex is absolutely HOT!!! This is a must read!
TruLove takes on finding love in the future supposedly using more than questions and answers, but DNA. People then are given a list of 10 potential TruLove’s, there is no order to the list just than any one on the list could be your one and only. Arden took the test when she was 14 because her mother forced her too, but she never looked at the list nor did she update it as she got older, but her mother did and upon her death, the information was transferred to Arden, who still didn’t want to look at list of potential love because she didn’t believe a list could do that for anyone. Freya also took the test but with her love at the time because her love wanted to prove they were meant to be, but alas they were not on each other’s list and eventually her love left her, leaving Freya bitter about the whole thing. A chance meeting and an instance connection between Arden and Freya have them questioning if TrueLove is real.
This is the second book in the TruLove Universe. While you don’t have to read SoulMatch first I recommend it because it helps understand where (and just how far) this book is going. TruLove is set in a fictional future world… which in a slightly scary way, could very well be realistic someday. From the start you get introduced to Trulove as the dating app of the future. Then the fun starts. In a way I feel like this is two books in one. The first part of the book is all about how and when Arden and Freya actually meet. Then the second part is so much more that you’ll have to find out when you read it. ( I don’t want to spoil it.) All I can say is that it was a very exciting/nail-bitting second part of the book. The creativity that goes into this series is amazing. I love this new world that Pyland has created where we still get that perfect love story she knows how to write but we also get a little bit more of an adventure while reading. This was such a fun read! Dive into this Universe, you won’t regret it!
Trulove is the prequel to Soulmatch and if you haven’t read it, you totally should. This story is set way before where you can see how things are changing in the world. Trulove is a company that by just taking a written test and physical exam they give you a list with 10 people that can be your true love. Taking the searching work out and saving you from basically wasting time. While that all sounds amazing some people can’t seem to just be happy with the person they’re with because they become interested in meeting everyone from their list. Like maybe they didn’t pick the right person. Arden and Freya both took the test but not really because they wanted to but from being at the wrong at the wrong time you get to go on this journey of unfortunate events where they do meet and they are on each others list.
I really enjoyed this book. It really had me hooked. Such a great love story but with an unexpected event that leaves wanting to read more to find out what happens.
Freya meets Arden after a nurse gets a bit too liberal while notifying family of an accident. They each have a list of potential TruLoves but neither quite believes in the fairy tale that they were sold, especially as Arden starts finding connections to other nefarious activities. This was not my favorite Pyland, I had a hard time connecting to these two characters. I liked the first book in this series and was hoping for a fun dive into this future world but most of the story is centered around their romance with quite a lot of the book just leading up to their initial meeting. Once they meet it progresses very quickly and the insta love just wasn't what I had hoped for. I really liked the mystery that Arden is investigating and reporting on but I was hoping for a bit more detail there, it was a tad too vague for me. I generally love Pyland's books though and I did like the first one, chalking this one up to just not being quite right for me.
Freya and Arden find themselves listed as mutual matches on the TruLove app, despite both having had negative experiences with it. They have chosen to live their love lives independently of the app. However, after a chance encounter involving an accident and a noisy nurse, they get to know each other, and their journey towards love begins.
This book is a slow-burn romance that accompanies both Freya and Arden on their journey to find true love. However, not everything is as it seems, and Arden is on the verge of discovering the truth about the company behind the TruLove app.
The relationship between Freya and Arden was undeniably sweet, but for me, it lacked a bit of depth. Having read many of Nicole Pyland's books, I must admit that this one didn't quite make it to the top of my favorites list.
This is an interesting and enjoyable read. It feels like 2 stories in one book. First, you’ve got a sweet romance between two very likable characters, a standard Nicole Pyland plot. After a couple of stumbles, their love story progresses quickly. Then, as things begin to heat up between the main characters a second deeper story emerges. This a a story of intrigue and scandal. I enjoyed the sweet and sexy romance, but I found the secondary story very compelling. It is futuristic but still realistic. Like SoulMatch, it is a look at the evils of corporate greed and questionable scientific research. I love all of this author’s romance stories but I am very much enjoying the added depth of her recent books. I highly recommend this book for both the romance and the deeper story.
"Trulove" by Nicole Pyland is a captivating journey through the complexities of love and self-discovery. Pyland skillfully weaves together a narrative that explores the depths of relationships, blending heartwarming moments with genuine emotion. The main characters, Freya and Arden as are well-developed, making it easy for readers to connect with their struggles and triumphs. The author's writing style is engaging, with a perfect balance of humor and tenderness. "Trulove" is a delightful read that immerses readers in a world of romance, friendship, and personal growth. Nicole Pyland continues to shine in the realm of Romance and fiction, delivering a story that is both heartfelt and uplifting.
Another fascinating dystopian love story from Nicole Pyland
This is a good story with a dose of cautionary tale. While a bit slow to start, the plot takes the reader through several twists before the exciting end.
We meet LOTS of characters through the course of the story. Generally, I love Nicole Pyland’s character development. Unfortunately, with so many cameo like appearances, I didn’t feel like I got to know many of characters very well.
Like SoulMatch, the author presents compelling questions related to the business of love. I appreciate authors who can make me think.
Another fantastic book from Nicole Pyland! Trulove makes you question if genetics play a role in your love life or if a test can determine who you most likely match is. Arden is forced to take a test she doesn't believe in and yet it ends up being the reason she is connects to what will be one of the most important people in her life. Freya while not believing in the list takes the test and loses her girlfriend at the time. The list of ten people who you are most compatible with, brings a joy to some and heartache to others. Would you let this list define your life? Read the book and see if Arden and Freya let the list define theirs.
After reading both books of this series, I think I do like this second book a bit better purely based off of the chemistry of the main characters. Freya and Arden are so sweet, and loved the slow angst in the beginning with the hesitancy from Freya's end. To me, it made the flow of the book a bit better. However, books in the series are equally well written.
I'm not a big sci-fi person, so it was a good intro for me into the genre. Overall, great stories and can't wait for the revisits to her other genres later this year!
I received an ARC from the author in exchange for an honest review.
I don't think I'll ever be disappointed in a Nicole Pyland book. Any genre any style I always get sucked in! This book is no exception. It was interesting in the fact that so many people in the book believe you can find your one true love from a list of 10 people. No Matter where in the world they are. Yet the 2 MC's didn't really believe, until what I would guess to be that first hug. This book goes alot deeper then finding your one true love. You never know what the future may hold! Give this book and all her others a read as well! Happy reading!
TruLove brings me back to when I first picked up a Nicole Pyland book. The story its self is a well paced F/F romance with an intriguing investigative plot woven throughout the story. This book made me feel nostalgia and brought me back to the first time I ever read The Fire (prequel of Chicago series). If you love a good romance with an investigative driving plot line definitely pick this up because I couldn’t put it down.
This one is different enough from most of the others that it's worth reading on that aspect alone. I've always enjoyed the authors work for the most part, but this one was different.
First of all it takes place in a futuristic setting. Second of all, once the two main characters get together, it's like nothing you've ever seen. Definitely a bit of thriller and suspense in the story.
Nicole, you are beyond prolific. I don’t recall any of your earlier works getting as dramatic (murder and cops, etc.) as these two latest sci-fi books. I like it though, they’re so amazing.
I know you write fast so I should not have to wait very long for the nail-biter…Great job!
Another great book by Nicole Pyland. In a world where more people are dying comes amazing women who search for and find the truth. Arden and Darcy break the story connecting more companies then anyone would have guessed. Through it all Arden finds Freya at the right time to keep them all safe.
Nicole’s dipping into sci-fi again and what a ride it is. Can you truly find love through an app? Read this book and find out. Nicole’s characters take us on an exciting adventure full of murder, love and of course her signature steamy sex! I enjoyed this work, even though it started out a bit slow, hang on and read through, wow, does it get better.
Wow this series is really amazing Nicole pyland writes with so much depth in each character no matter how small they are in the story, you just feel connected to them all this story is no different it was perfection I couldn't put it down definitely must read congratulations
Nicole Pyland is such a talented writer. I love the depth of her characters and the intricacies of her storyline. TruLove is the first book of hers that I've read that is set a little in the future. Great perspective and believable truths.
I don’t often comment, but this is a really good book. Great story. Well written. My only objection are a couple of grammar and punctuation issues (I want to say errors, but I suspect that they’ll pass the checkers).
This story took an unexpected turn from the beginning. Stories exposing big bad companies, literally running for their lives and finding love. Soulmates don’t need a list. Enjoy this HEA.