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The French Connection #3
Always Emilie: Sapphic Second-Chance Romance (The French Connection Book 3)
Charlie Baxter has it all. A beautiful house, successful company and a set of tattoos that light women on fire at the mere sight of them. Not to mention, she’s tall and gorgeous! Life is good… Well, that is until her old music teacher calls insisting she return to her old school to take part in their annual charity ball. Charlie left Pickerton Academy behind twenty years ago. She also left behind the heartache caused by the only girl she ever loved.
Emilie Martin is an international superstar. She’s had fame and fortune for the past two decades, but what she really wants now is a break. Maybe a couple of weeks in the English countryside and a visit to her old school is just what she needs. Sounds perfect, and it would be if it weren’t for the fact it meant seeing the one person Emilie has pined over for twenty years. The girl that got away. No, the girl Emilie threw away.
With both women on a collision course with their past, can they put all the hurt behind them and start again? Can they keep their hands off each other long enough to really figure out what they want?
Emilie Martin is an international superstar. She’s had fame and fortune for the past two decades, but what she really wants now is a break. Maybe a couple of weeks in the English countryside and a visit to her old school is just what she needs. Sounds perfect, and it would be if it weren’t for the fact it meant seeing the one person Emilie has pined over for twenty years. The girl that got away. No, the girl Emilie threw away.
With both women on a collision course with their past, can they put all the hurt behind them and start again? Can they keep their hands off each other long enough to really figure out what they want?
448 pages, Kindle Edition
Published May 23, 2023
159 people are currently reading
744 people want to read
About the author
Alyson Root
23 books227 followersAlyson was born and raised in the heart of England. She moved to Paris in 2015 when she met her wife. Together they moved to the west of France where they now live with their two dogs and pet bird. Alyson spends her time running a small campsite and holiday home. During her off time, she loves to read lesbian romance books, write and Scuba Dive.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 109 reviews
March 29, 2025
Enjoyable read!
A surprisingly much better coupling (Charlie & Emilie) and improve storytelling of 'The French Connection' series.
Recommended book and .....!
A surprisingly much better coupling (Charlie & Emilie) and improve storytelling of 'The French Connection' series.
Recommended book and .....!
July 1, 2023
Emilie and Charlotte attended the Pinkerton Academy, became lovers then split up to go in separate directions. The two were once part of the school girl band then Emilie went on to become a renown singer and Charlotte emerged as the famous hot, tattooed photographer Charlie Baxter. Twenty years have elapsed and a fundraiser is planned by the Academy featuring the girl band reunited and everyone involved says ok. Plainly put, Emilie needs a break to recharge and Charlie wants closure
Alyson Root's writing pulls you along and the humor, heat, angst and some intrigue is coupled with interesting side characters. Can Emilie handle sexy Charlie? Will unexpected twists add intrigue to the plot? Trust plays a big part. I wanted that second chance at love to lead to a HEA.
Root is a new author for me and this turned out to be a fun read with lots of heat.
Alyson Root's writing pulls you along and the humor, heat, angst and some intrigue is coupled with interesting side characters. Can Emilie handle sexy Charlie? Will unexpected twists add intrigue to the plot? Trust plays a big part. I wanted that second chance at love to lead to a HEA.
Root is a new author for me and this turned out to be a fun read with lots of heat.
February 28, 2025
4,5 ⭐️
Hot and streamy second-chance romance.
Hot and streamy second-chance romance.
September 23, 2024
Always Emilie by Alyson Root is an emotional and steamy second-chance love story that brings two former lovers back together after twenty years apart. With plenty of drama, intrigue, and a healthy dose of heartwarming moments, this audiobook is a delightful listen, especially if you’re a fan of sapphic romances with an edge of mystery and intense chemistry.
Charlie Baxter seems to have it all—success, beauty, and a set of tattoos that drive women wild. However, when she’s called back to her old school to attend a charity ball, she’s forced to face the one person she’s never been able to forget: Emilie Martin, the girl who broke her heart two decades ago. Emilie, an international superstar, is also dealing with her own feelings of regret over losing Charlie, the "one that got away." The result is a slow-burning, tension-filled reunion that simmers with unresolved emotions and undeniable attraction.
I absolutely loved the second-chance romance storyline in Always Emilie. There’s something so satisfying about watching two characters with shared history grapple with their past while trying to figure out if they can make things work in the present. Charlie and Emilie’s dynamic is filled with drama, and the emotional depth of their relationship really shines through in their interactions. The drama and intrigue surrounding their past—and how it continues to impact their future—keeps you hooked from start to finish.
The romance itself is sizzling, with just the right amount of steam. Root delivers some seriously steamy sapphic scenes, including a str@p-on scene that adds to the intensity of Charlie and Emilie’s reconnection. And let’s not forget the wonderful friendships and found family that surround these two characters, which help ground the story and give it even more heart. Spud, Charlie’s lovable canine sidekick, is an adorable addition that adds some lighthearted moments to balance out the drama.
Lila Green’s narration is, as in the previous audiobooks, solid. She captures the emotions and tension between Charlie and Emilie with great nuance, bringing their story to life in a way that makes it easy to connect with the characters. Green has been the voice of this series, and she delivers yet another strong performance in the conclusion of this trilogy.
If you’re a fan of second-chance romances with a lot of heat, a little mystery, and some heartfelt moments, Always Emilie is definitely worth a listen. The chemistry between Charlie and Emilie is palpable, the drama keeps you on your toes, and the friendships add an extra layer of warmth to this already captivating story. Alyson Root has crafted a beautiful finale to this series, and I’m excited to see what she writes next!
Charlie Baxter seems to have it all—success, beauty, and a set of tattoos that drive women wild. However, when she’s called back to her old school to attend a charity ball, she’s forced to face the one person she’s never been able to forget: Emilie Martin, the girl who broke her heart two decades ago. Emilie, an international superstar, is also dealing with her own feelings of regret over losing Charlie, the "one that got away." The result is a slow-burning, tension-filled reunion that simmers with unresolved emotions and undeniable attraction.
I absolutely loved the second-chance romance storyline in Always Emilie. There’s something so satisfying about watching two characters with shared history grapple with their past while trying to figure out if they can make things work in the present. Charlie and Emilie’s dynamic is filled with drama, and the emotional depth of their relationship really shines through in their interactions. The drama and intrigue surrounding their past—and how it continues to impact their future—keeps you hooked from start to finish.
The romance itself is sizzling, with just the right amount of steam. Root delivers some seriously steamy sapphic scenes, including a str@p-on scene that adds to the intensity of Charlie and Emilie’s reconnection. And let’s not forget the wonderful friendships and found family that surround these two characters, which help ground the story and give it even more heart. Spud, Charlie’s lovable canine sidekick, is an adorable addition that adds some lighthearted moments to balance out the drama.
Lila Green’s narration is, as in the previous audiobooks, solid. She captures the emotions and tension between Charlie and Emilie with great nuance, bringing their story to life in a way that makes it easy to connect with the characters. Green has been the voice of this series, and she delivers yet another strong performance in the conclusion of this trilogy.
If you’re a fan of second-chance romances with a lot of heat, a little mystery, and some heartfelt moments, Always Emilie is definitely worth a listen. The chemistry between Charlie and Emilie is palpable, the drama keeps you on your toes, and the friendships add an extra layer of warmth to this already captivating story. Alyson Root has crafted a beautiful finale to this series, and I’m excited to see what she writes next!
May 25, 2023
Five stars are nowhere near enough for this incredible book! Quite honestly this might be the best mix of WLW romance, mystery, action and crime I have ever read. It has it all, romance incredibly amazing characters whose personal development and responsible adult behaviour speaks of integrity and awareness rarely found in novels and also tells one hell of a lot about the author.
Having read the Kindle edition I just have to buy a non digital one now for my real Top Favourite Shelf.
Having read the Kindle edition I just have to buy a non digital one now for my real Top Favourite Shelf.
December 2, 2024
A brilliant ending to the French Connection Series!
These stories just keep getting better and better! I love how the narrator has been consistent in each character’s accent/personality throughout all three books. We have gotten to see how each couple has grown after about a year between each story. Particularly Sam and Anna as they are frequent flyers in the two subsequent books. Although each could be read as a standalone, I definitely recommend going in order because all three are wonderful as well as providing a deeper connection with the characters and couples.
These stories just keep getting better and better! I love how the narrator has been consistent in each character’s accent/personality throughout all three books. We have gotten to see how each couple has grown after about a year between each story. Particularly Sam and Anna as they are frequent flyers in the two subsequent books. Although each could be read as a standalone, I definitely recommend going in order because all three are wonderful as well as providing a deeper connection with the characters and couples.
February 23, 2025
I loved this Audiobook on Audible! I was waiting for Charlie’s love journey. I was so happy for her HEA. I really liked Emilie’s friend Jess and hope she gets a story of her own. She seems like a lost soul herself and needs that special someone. It’s sad that these so called friends would do such harm over jealousy and greed. Im happy that Charlie’s found family took Emilie in with open arms. 🤗 This was a quick, some angst, but a lovely story by Alyson Root. I do really hope that Jess gets a story of her own sometime soon. I don’t know why but this series seems unfinished till Jess gets her love story. I don’t like to think she is alone out there while everyone else is coupled up. I’m a hopeless romantic so I can’t help it. lol everyone should read/listen to the Connection series they all were good and the narrator is so awesome 👏 she does a fabulous job with the sound quality and the extra details of sound she adds in.
May 27, 2023
Charolette and Emilie were not only best friends at the Pinkerton Academy, they were also lovers, until they weren't. Charolette gave up the piano and went on to university for photography. She's now a renowned photographer Charlie Baxter. Emilie went on to be a superstar singer. Twenty years later the academy wants to bring back the band the girls were in for a fundraiser. Everyone agrees, and Charlie and Emilie see each other for the first time in 20 years. Sparks fly! Lydia, one of Emilie's friends from school hates this. And the fun begins. There is plenty of HOT sex, and a mystery to boot! This is the 3rd book of the series, and what a great series it is. 5 stars!
May 31, 2023
amazing
A mixture of joy, love lost and found. Jealousy and obsession breaks an initial young love but fate has other things planned. When you find the one that is meant for you, nothing can stop the power of love and forgiveness
towards a HEA.
A mixture of joy, love lost and found. Jealousy and obsession breaks an initial young love but fate has other things planned. When you find the one that is meant for you, nothing can stop the power of love and forgiveness
towards a HEA.
June 26, 2023
Good story about young love interrupted by a jealous classmate’s lies. This book flows well and the characters are fun and interesting enough to help keep the story moving right along. The storyline has a bit of everything, from wronged lovers reuniting, hot sexy times and even a bit of thriller to go along with the romance. I enjoyed this book and plan to read more by this author.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
August 3, 2024
Loved it
I've read all three books in the series and I think this one might be my favorite. Don't get me wrong the other two were great but I'm a sucker for second chance romances and this one was great. It helped that previous characters were in them and everything tied so beautifully. I'm kinda hoping Jess gets a story too.
Anyway, I really loved it and I can't wait to read more!
I've read all three books in the series and I think this one might be my favorite. Don't get me wrong the other two were great but I'm a sucker for second chance romances and this one was great. It helped that previous characters were in them and everything tied so beautifully. I'm kinda hoping Jess gets a story too.
Anyway, I really loved it and I can't wait to read more!
April 25, 2023
Well, an amusing start, in all honesty the first word hooked me in! The start certainly feels London based. Very refreshing to read. The whole of chapter one does everything a first chapter should. It leaves me wanting more information to add to the tidbits I have just read. It also amused and entertained me!
Chapter 2, introduced the other main properly and I was equally engrossed.
Interesting plot device in chapter 7! I didn’t see that coming.
The plot has surprised me several times. I am not sure who the baddy is!
Well, I literally got towards the end, still not sure.... That was great. Everything was wrapped up in the end but I was constantly second guessing myself. The writer laid a trail, and a few false ones.
I enjoyed both plot lines, the romance and the bit of intrigue. Strong 4 stars, the whole way through.
Chapter 2, introduced the other main properly and I was equally engrossed.
Interesting plot device in chapter 7! I didn’t see that coming.
The plot has surprised me several times. I am not sure who the baddy is!
Well, I literally got towards the end, still not sure.... That was great. Everything was wrapped up in the end but I was constantly second guessing myself. The writer laid a trail, and a few false ones.
I enjoyed both plot lines, the romance and the bit of intrigue. Strong 4 stars, the whole way through.
April 25, 2023
I have read all three of the books in this series. They are all good, but this one was by far my favorite. Charlie is a professional photographer that we are introduced to in the previous books, but we learn in this one that she has a past that she has kept secret from everyone. Her friends all come together to support her when she receives an invitation to attend an event at her former high school and has to face the girl who ripped her heart out all those years ago. Emilie is a superstar performer who has been going non-stop and is in desperate need of a break. Her life has become so overwhelming and hectic that she doesn't know where to turn or who to trust. The last thing on her to-do list before she gets a much needed break is an event she was roped into attending at her former high school. The second chance at romance is one of my favorite tropes, and this one was written excellently. There is just enough action to keep you glued to the page and wondering what is going to happen next without being too busy or too boring. I highly recommend this series, especially this third book!!!
May 4, 2023
I was so glad to be chosen to receive an ARC from the author. Alyson Root has done it again! Always Emilie is a beautiful love story. It's got angst, lust (very spicy sexy scenes), friendship, women empowerment, some jealousy & love. I've read the other two books in this series (A Dance Towards Forever & Diving Into Her) and I loved seeing Anna, Sam, Helene & Kim again as they help Charlie navigate her feelings of a love lost and hopefully found. I absolutely loved watching Charlie and Emilie build their new/old relationship as adults and how they've both grown separately and together over the course of the last 20 years. I couldn't put this book down and I devoured it in a few days. I thought that I had the twist figured out, but man was I wrong, that is why they call it a twist after all! I do hope that there will be more French Connection books, because they've all been immensely entertaining and I can't wait to see what comes next!
April 24, 2023
I couldn’t put this book down. It was everything all wrapped up in one book. I don’t know if it was the suspense, the love, the friendship, the sex, or the scenery, but it really doesn’t matter. Because the end result was simple awesome.
March 15, 2024
I’m not usually into second chances but I LOVED this story. It flowed so well and kept me guessing to the end. I had no clue it was the third book in a series and now I’ll have to read the first 2 asap!
June 26, 2024
Many shelves ticked in this lovely book that had me hooked from start to finish. A class act, thank you Alyson Root. Highly recommended
July 2, 2025
4.25⭐️
January 31, 2024
so dramatic and for what?
May 10, 2023
If you love celebrity romance, second chances, spice, and drama - then you definitely have to read Always Emilie by Alyson Root! This is the third book in her French Connections series and it is wonderful!
The story follows two characters who were high school sweethearts and found something special in each other. But when drama unfolded in their lives, trust was lost and hearts were broken. Emilie and Charlotte never thought they would see each other or speak to one another again. Charlotte reinvented herself. She stopped playing piano, became a photographer, and started going by Charlie. And she is one sexy, tattooed goddess! 🥵 Emilie continued to rise in fame and become an international sensation, writing songs and traveling the world to perform them for her adoring fans. But no matter how good their lives were going, something was still missing - the part of their hearts they left back in high school.
So when the school reaches out to them about performing with their old band mates at the upcoming Christmas Ball 20 years later, and tells them EVERYONE in the band will be coming…how can they say no to that? (Side note - I want to walk into a party one day like a badass the way Charlie Baxter walked into that ball!🔥)
Clearly no amount of time or distance could dim the spark between these two, though! It doesn’t take long before they are drawn back to one another, but that doesn’t mean the past is forgotten and they can just move forward like nothing happened. Hopefully a little time in Quebec at Emilie’s cabin will help them reconnect as friends, and maybe rekindle that fire, too. But Charlie isn’t the only one with their eyes set on this superstar…
Always Emilie is full of drama, intrigue, and mystery in addition to the beautiful, heartwarming, and steamy romance. Oh, and for those who want to know: str@p-0n scene included! 😉 Plus there’s an adorable dog. I mean, what more could you ask for?!
I highly recommend this book! You don’t have to read the previous books in the series for it to make sense, but the main characters from the previous books do play minor roles in the story line.
Thanks for the ARC, Alyson!
The story follows two characters who were high school sweethearts and found something special in each other. But when drama unfolded in their lives, trust was lost and hearts were broken. Emilie and Charlotte never thought they would see each other or speak to one another again. Charlotte reinvented herself. She stopped playing piano, became a photographer, and started going by Charlie. And she is one sexy, tattooed goddess! 🥵 Emilie continued to rise in fame and become an international sensation, writing songs and traveling the world to perform them for her adoring fans. But no matter how good their lives were going, something was still missing - the part of their hearts they left back in high school.
So when the school reaches out to them about performing with their old band mates at the upcoming Christmas Ball 20 years later, and tells them EVERYONE in the band will be coming…how can they say no to that? (Side note - I want to walk into a party one day like a badass the way Charlie Baxter walked into that ball!🔥)
Clearly no amount of time or distance could dim the spark between these two, though! It doesn’t take long before they are drawn back to one another, but that doesn’t mean the past is forgotten and they can just move forward like nothing happened. Hopefully a little time in Quebec at Emilie’s cabin will help them reconnect as friends, and maybe rekindle that fire, too. But Charlie isn’t the only one with their eyes set on this superstar…
Always Emilie is full of drama, intrigue, and mystery in addition to the beautiful, heartwarming, and steamy romance. Oh, and for those who want to know: str@p-0n scene included! 😉 Plus there’s an adorable dog. I mean, what more could you ask for?!
I highly recommend this book! You don’t have to read the previous books in the series for it to make sense, but the main characters from the previous books do play minor roles in the story line.
Thanks for the ARC, Alyson!
May 14, 2024
This is the last one of the series.
Again we already know one of the main characters, Charlie. She is Sam's best friend. She had a well known shitty childhood (that's a technical term) with crappy parents which has left her with many insecurities but also a trust fund and a mansion. Wealth does not automatically make people good parents.
Charlie wants to borrow the very pregnant Anna as her date for a school reunion. There is to be a high school band reunion. Charlie had changed her name since leaving school and had been a world renowned musician. And her old school girlfriend is now a mega pop star. They split up after an incident that Charlie was blamed for and they have not seen each other since.
Not only is there tension and anxiety about the reunion but they then embark on a getting to know you exercise and are eventually happily reunited.
However, this book also has additional tension with threats being made about Emilie. It is obvious that there must be someone close to Emilie involved with this due to nature and placing of the
threats.
This is not helped by Spud (the dog) dropping a stick at Charlie's feet - that is her signal that there is a bear nearby!
There are bears, violence, threatening notes, assault and an attempt to mow Charlie down in a car.
This is eventually traced back to a stalker of Emilie's, which feels a little unfair as she was a throwaway comment earlier in the story and thought to be still in prison. However she has help from one of Emilie's close circle.
But which one is it? You should read it for yourself and find out.
Epilogue - this is tying up all the loose ends so quite acceptable.
Anna is pregnant again!
Kim and Helen are married
Charlie proposes on stage to Emilie with Spud the dog carrying the ring on in a little basket
Again we already know one of the main characters, Charlie. She is Sam's best friend. She had a well known shitty childhood (that's a technical term) with crappy parents which has left her with many insecurities but also a trust fund and a mansion. Wealth does not automatically make people good parents.
Charlie wants to borrow the very pregnant Anna as her date for a school reunion. There is to be a high school band reunion. Charlie had changed her name since leaving school and had been a world renowned musician. And her old school girlfriend is now a mega pop star. They split up after an incident that Charlie was blamed for and they have not seen each other since.
Not only is there tension and anxiety about the reunion but they then embark on a getting to know you exercise and are eventually happily reunited.
However, this book also has additional tension with threats being made about Emilie. It is obvious that there must be someone close to Emilie involved with this due to nature and placing of the
threats.
This is not helped by Spud (the dog) dropping a stick at Charlie's feet - that is her signal that there is a bear nearby!
There are bears, violence, threatening notes, assault and an attempt to mow Charlie down in a car.
This is eventually traced back to a stalker of Emilie's, which feels a little unfair as she was a throwaway comment earlier in the story and thought to be still in prison. However she has help from one of Emilie's close circle.
But which one is it? You should read it for yourself and find out.
Epilogue - this is tying up all the loose ends so quite acceptable.
Anna is pregnant again!
Kim and Helen are married
Charlie proposes on stage to Emilie with Spud the dog carrying the ring on in a little basket
April 30, 2023
A copy of the book was provided to Sapphic Book Club in exchange for an honest review.
This is the 3rd book in the French Connection Series and follows Charlie, Sam's (from book 1) best friend and her second chance romance. Charlie loved Emilie back in school when everything exploded between them, resulting in a 20 year separation before meeting again at a school function. Emilie, a chart topping musician has regretted how everything went down between her and Charlie at school, and when an opportunity to reconnect present itself, she doesn't hesitate to take it. Sparks fly and the next thing Charlie knows, she has been hired by Emilie to be her personal photographer.
I like Charlie from the previous book and was happy to see her get her own story. I am also a big fan of second chance romance, which makes this one my favorite of the series. Second chance romances tend to avoid the unnecessary breakup scenario by having the characters work thru what broke them up in the first place. This story also has some mystery to it and while I won't spoil it, the mystery gives it a bit of a kick that the other books didn't have, and for which I greatly appreciated.
All in all, I found myself really liking this one and curious to see if any more books in the French Connection series will be released. I would like to see Jess get her story. I would recommend this to fans of second chance and celebrity romance. Side note- it can be read as a stand alone book but main characters from previous books makes appearances.
This is the 3rd book in the French Connection Series and follows Charlie, Sam's (from book 1) best friend and her second chance romance. Charlie loved Emilie back in school when everything exploded between them, resulting in a 20 year separation before meeting again at a school function. Emilie, a chart topping musician has regretted how everything went down between her and Charlie at school, and when an opportunity to reconnect present itself, she doesn't hesitate to take it. Sparks fly and the next thing Charlie knows, she has been hired by Emilie to be her personal photographer.
I like Charlie from the previous book and was happy to see her get her own story. I am also a big fan of second chance romance, which makes this one my favorite of the series. Second chance romances tend to avoid the unnecessary breakup scenario by having the characters work thru what broke them up in the first place. This story also has some mystery to it and while I won't spoil it, the mystery gives it a bit of a kick that the other books didn't have, and for which I greatly appreciated.
All in all, I found myself really liking this one and curious to see if any more books in the French Connection series will be released. I would like to see Jess get her story. I would recommend this to fans of second chance and celebrity romance. Side note- it can be read as a stand alone book but main characters from previous books makes appearances.
July 2, 2024
Due to a reading challenge, I came to this third part of a loose trilogy a little ‘back to front’. I’ve read book 1 (so know Sam and Anna and have met Helene) but skipped Helene and Kim’s story in book 2. I’ll have to go back to that soon!
This was a very enjoyable second chance love story largely set in Quebec, Canada. Sam’s best friend Charlie had a childhood romance with a girl who was an emerging singing star, but is now a superstar. Emilie accused Charlie of exposing them to the media and they broke up. Since then, Charlie has given up her first passion of piano playing and dramatically changed both her persona and her name. It transpires that Emilie has multiple regrets about what happened before and takes the chance on seeing Charlie again at a 20 year school reunion concert for the band they were both in. Emilie is hoping for forgiveness, at least, and when she sees Charlie again, perhaps more…
There was lots to like in this. Charlie’s friendship group are great, whilst you feel some reserve and distrust over Emilie’s. It’s not clear for some time who she can trust and who she really shouldn’t. There’s some drama and incident over threats to their fledgling second chance and I particularly liked that Charlie and Emilie talked out their problems, rather than there being a wholly unrealistic ‘break up before the make up’. Once they commit to being together, they don’t waver. This also had a loveable dog who’s hard to dislike, even with all the slobber!
N.B I did find myself wondering if Emilie had a French Canadian accent as, like Charlie, she seemed very British…just something I pondered!
This was a very enjoyable second chance love story largely set in Quebec, Canada. Sam’s best friend Charlie had a childhood romance with a girl who was an emerging singing star, but is now a superstar. Emilie accused Charlie of exposing them to the media and they broke up. Since then, Charlie has given up her first passion of piano playing and dramatically changed both her persona and her name. It transpires that Emilie has multiple regrets about what happened before and takes the chance on seeing Charlie again at a 20 year school reunion concert for the band they were both in. Emilie is hoping for forgiveness, at least, and when she sees Charlie again, perhaps more…
There was lots to like in this. Charlie’s friendship group are great, whilst you feel some reserve and distrust over Emilie’s. It’s not clear for some time who she can trust and who she really shouldn’t. There’s some drama and incident over threats to their fledgling second chance and I particularly liked that Charlie and Emilie talked out their problems, rather than there being a wholly unrealistic ‘break up before the make up’. Once they commit to being together, they don’t waver. This also had a loveable dog who’s hard to dislike, even with all the slobber!
N.B I did find myself wondering if Emilie had a French Canadian accent as, like Charlie, she seemed very British…just something I pondered!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
November 15, 2025
in which the third book in the series was time for a genre shift
so Charlie and Emilie was all playing out pretty much in line with Welcome to Ero-Tea-Ca and the previous two books in the series. We have... let's say economic comfort, crappy parents, complicated friend interactions especially involving a friend who does something over the line and then apologises and is forgiven, heightened emotional angst with backstory, and creative and varied sexual intercourse. then Charlie starts receiving threatening notes
I often complain when one of my romances turns into a thriller, and yeah I wasn't too into it here. though second chance is one of my favourite romance subgenres - I like the established intimacy, in-built angst, and the desperation it can inspire in the leads - and Emilie literally blocks the road with her car to keep Charlie from driving away at one point, so yeah that all worked. I also enjoyed Sam/Anna and Helene/Kim returning as Charlie's exuberant friend group, at least until things got all crime thrillery and they had to leave so Charlie and Emilie could fear for their lives
well, more than Charlie was already fearing for her life from bears
so Charlie and Emilie was all playing out pretty much in line with Welcome to Ero-Tea-Ca and the previous two books in the series. We have... let's say economic comfort, crappy parents, complicated friend interactions especially involving a friend who does something over the line and then apologises and is forgiven, heightened emotional angst with backstory, and creative and varied sexual intercourse. then Charlie starts receiving threatening notes
I often complain when one of my romances turns into a thriller, and yeah I wasn't too into it here. though second chance is one of my favourite romance subgenres - I like the established intimacy, in-built angst, and the desperation it can inspire in the leads - and Emilie literally blocks the road with her car to keep Charlie from driving away at one point, so yeah that all worked. I also enjoyed Sam/Anna and Helene/Kim returning as Charlie's exuberant friend group, at least until things got all crime thrillery and they had to leave so Charlie and Emilie could fear for their lives
well, more than Charlie was already fearing for her life from bears
June 19, 2023
Very enjoyable and engrossing.
I love Charlie. From the first "holymotherfuckingshitballs" she leaps off the page. Her friends are awesome and I didn't know there were books before this one and didn't feel like I'd missed out on not having read them.
Emelie wasn't as vivacious as Charlie and seemed a little delicate, emotionally. Which is not a bad thing at all, she just didn't come across with the same sparkle Charlie had.
I liked that their teenage break-up was over something teenage-y and not overly dramatic.
I enjoyed the entire scene at the school charity event, especially Charlie's entrance.
I loved the mystery stalker trope and how it brought Charlie and Emelie closer, and Charlie's humour is great and so well timed.
The bedroom scenes were hot.
I wish the stalker element had been played with a little darker, but I still really enjoyed my first Alyson Root.
I received a copy via BookSirens and all opinions are my own.
I love Charlie. From the first "holymotherfuckingshitballs" she leaps off the page. Her friends are awesome and I didn't know there were books before this one and didn't feel like I'd missed out on not having read them.
Emelie wasn't as vivacious as Charlie and seemed a little delicate, emotionally. Which is not a bad thing at all, she just didn't come across with the same sparkle Charlie had.
I liked that their teenage break-up was over something teenage-y and not overly dramatic.
I enjoyed the entire scene at the school charity event, especially Charlie's entrance.
I loved the mystery stalker trope and how it brought Charlie and Emelie closer, and Charlie's humour is great and so well timed.
The bedroom scenes were hot.
I wish the stalker element had been played with a little darker, but I still really enjoyed my first Alyson Root.
I received a copy via BookSirens and all opinions are my own.
July 7, 2023
Emilie and Charlotte get an invite to return to their high school to perform like they did when they attented it. Minor detail they used to be best friend and lovers until there was a huge betrayal and everything blew up.
Now Emilie is an even bigger popstar and Charlie is a talented photographer having her music career put aside after that desastrous fallout.
This is the cutest second chance romance if there ever is one. I love how they both have grown into adults and can see how past hurt sometimes get the upper hand and makes them lash out. They communicate and they grow together and it was all so cute to see.
The mystery of the attacks brings in something extra and it was nailbiting to not know until the end who was involved.
I loved the friends and it wasn't until the end that I figured out these might have their own books. I never realised this was book 3 in a series and now I can't wait to read the rest and revisit these characters in their journey to love.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Now Emilie is an even bigger popstar and Charlie is a talented photographer having her music career put aside after that desastrous fallout.
This is the cutest second chance romance if there ever is one. I love how they both have grown into adults and can see how past hurt sometimes get the upper hand and makes them lash out. They communicate and they grow together and it was all so cute to see.
The mystery of the attacks brings in something extra and it was nailbiting to not know until the end who was involved.
I loved the friends and it wasn't until the end that I figured out these might have their own books. I never realised this was book 3 in a series and now I can't wait to read the rest and revisit these characters in their journey to love.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
March 17, 2024
One thing about me is that I always buy books, then read them a lot later because I get anxious and scared to know if I will like them or not or if I made the right purchase.
I didn’t have to wait to find out if I made the right decision when I picked up this book. This whole book is incredible. The series is incredible. My heart belongs with Charlie and Emilie and it is so beautifully written. I think it’s well paced- there was some mid chapter time skips which I’m not usually fond of but it really did work well in this book. I loved the entire story line, and what I really appreciated is that this book didn’t do a “then” and “now” kind of thing where as I know a lot of other books with the second chance romance trope do.
If you’re like me, and sometimes hesitates to read the books you buy, or if you’re looking to buy a book, this book is definitely definitely definitely worth the read. I can’t stress it enough. You’ll be sure to fall in love with Charlie and Emilie and the whole lot of them.
I didn’t have to wait to find out if I made the right decision when I picked up this book. This whole book is incredible. The series is incredible. My heart belongs with Charlie and Emilie and it is so beautifully written. I think it’s well paced- there was some mid chapter time skips which I’m not usually fond of but it really did work well in this book. I loved the entire story line, and what I really appreciated is that this book didn’t do a “then” and “now” kind of thing where as I know a lot of other books with the second chance romance trope do.
If you’re like me, and sometimes hesitates to read the books you buy, or if you’re looking to buy a book, this book is definitely definitely definitely worth the read. I can’t stress it enough. You’ll be sure to fall in love with Charlie and Emilie and the whole lot of them.
November 20, 2023
Intense, hilarious, perfect
Wow, just wow. What a way to finish this incredible series! It was beyond amazing. It was a lot more intense than the other books of series, but damn it was wonderful.
Firstly, I was so excited through the entire book because Charlotte past was incredible, the first time Charlie and Emilie meet after 20 years was so thrilling and of course there is all the adrenaline from the big problem which I will not spoil but just wow.
The story and emotions were very intense. It was also so sweet, so precious, and so fun because of the interaction between our couple but also between our fabulous group of friends. The romance was also so hot, the scene with the mirror (you know exactly what scene I'm talking about) was genius, pure gold. The epilogue was absolutely perfect, I love it to death.
Really, this series is a gem. I'm a definite fan of the author now. I highly recommend it!
Wow, just wow. What a way to finish this incredible series! It was beyond amazing. It was a lot more intense than the other books of series, but damn it was wonderful.
Firstly, I was so excited through the entire book because Charlotte past was incredible, the first time Charlie and Emilie meet after 20 years was so thrilling and of course there is all the adrenaline from the big problem which I will not spoil but just wow.
The story and emotions were very intense. It was also so sweet, so precious, and so fun because of the interaction between our couple but also between our fabulous group of friends. The romance was also so hot, the scene with the mirror (you know exactly what scene I'm talking about) was genius, pure gold. The epilogue was absolutely perfect, I love it to death.
Really, this series is a gem. I'm a definite fan of the author now. I highly recommend it!
January 3, 2024
The Librarian Recommends...
The Grammar Snob...
Final Judgment?
I loved this book. The characters were fleshed out, spoke with their own voices, and had flaws that kept things from getting too sappy. The plot was a nice change from the 80% breakup point of most romance stories and the author wasn't afraid to let the story take its time (the mains don't get face-to-face until chapter 6!). There wasn't an overabundance of "gee whiz, look at all of my rich people stuff," just enough items to set the stage and give the whole thing a comfy atmosphere.
The Grammar Snob...
...will deduct a star for want of one more pass with the editor's red pen. Missing punctuation, abundant incorrect homonyms, and comma abuse brought me out of the story enough to be noticeable.
Final Judgment?
Get this book. Read it in a day, like I did. Can't recommend it enough. I'm going to go buy more of this author's works now. I'm really hoping that there will be an audiobook edition of this.
March 12, 2024
3.5 stars. I really liked the beginning, how both of their anxiety and nerves were portrait, how they met for the first time (again). Both main characters and most of side characters were likeable and interesting. There was a 5-star potential there. I usually like well written second chance romances.
I haven't read the two other books in the series but will check them out later. Especially Sam and Anna's story interests me.
What I would have hoped to read was slower burn or more contemplation before getting together. The history and the original break up should have made things more complex. With the setting and main characters professions, probably this was the way to go to keep the MCs in one town but something was misisng.
The suspense portion of the book was a nice surprise (if you like that kind).
The epilogue was...meh. I don't like this kind of juvenile big gestures. It was just awkward for me.
I haven't read the two other books in the series but will check them out later. Especially Sam and Anna's story interests me.
What I would have hoped to read was slower burn or more contemplation before getting together. The history and the original break up should have made things more complex. With the setting and main characters professions, probably this was the way to go to keep the MCs in one town but something was misisng.
The suspense portion of the book was a nice surprise (if you like that kind).
The epilogue was...meh. I don't like this kind of juvenile big gestures. It was just awkward for me.
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