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Everlasting #1

Everlasting Love

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Shane

The army took more from me than I’d like to admit—even to myself.

I’m still trying to navigate my new normal while taking care of the people I feel indebted to …

Because while I came home, one of my best friends didn’t.

And I can’t help but feel responsible.



My life has been passing me by in still frames and black and white …

Until the moment I see her.

I’m captivated.

I don’t deserve her when all I do is fail the people around me.

But life keeps throwing me in her path …

That has to mean something, right?



Violet

My life isn’t going the way I planned.

I thought I was getting my happily ever after but the man I thought was my forever turned out to be nothing more than a waste of my time.

The only silver lining in that mistake?



I got my sweet daughter, my world, out of it.



When I meet Shane, I’m not looking for anything …

But the way he makes me feel with just one glance—it’s impossible to ignore.

The cherry on top?

He and my daughter have an instant connection that makes me believe better things are on the horizon.



Everlasting love is hard to come by …

Especially when we both have demons in our pasts that threaten to ruin our future.



Grab this emotional, steam-filled contemporary romance about a damaged cinnamon roll veteran who believes he’s undeserving of the sexy single mom with a sweet daughter even though they may be exactly what he needs.

490 pages, Kindle Edition

First published January 7, 2024

32 people are currently reading
119 people want to read

About the author

Debra St. James

16 books315 followers
Debra St James is an author of spicy, slow-burn contemporary romance that features cinnamon roll heroes who listen to their women’s hearts and their words. She takes her time to weave a detailed tapestry of genuine characters, real-life struggles, love, and romance to create engaging stories that will have you so immersed in the story that you’ll never want to leave. Her stories are always guaranteed to take you on an emotional journey that ultimately ends with a HEA!

Debra loves to read romance. She can often be found with her nose stuck in her iPad, swooning over her latest book boyfriend. She writes part-time from her Perth home, which she shares with Mr. St James and their two sons, whose antics often make her roll her eyes and laugh in equal measure. Debra loves to eat cheese and chocolate (not together), and cheese and chocolate love Debra’s thighs so much, they never want to leave!

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5 stars
51 (63%)
4 stars
22 (27%)
3 stars
5 (6%)
2 stars
1 (1%)
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1 (1%)
Displaying 1 - 30 of 30 reviews
Profile Image for Dora Koutsoukou .
2,282 reviews731 followers
January 11, 2024
3,5 ♥️♥️🤔🌟s

This read was a severe test of my tolerance and endurance…

If you only knew how many times I was close to dnf it…
But the writing was so wonderful and the characters amazing, so I kept reading till the last page!!!!

Shane and Violet’s journey was substantial, tough, soul stirring, traumatic with some heartbreaking times, yet their hea was so heartwarming!
The secondary characters were a remarkable addition to the story and especially Jasmine, Violet’s little daughter, was the highlight of the cast.

The slow burn and pace wore me out and Shane’s trauma and healing was longwinded.

I don’t regret reading it however I wish it wasn’t that lengthy.
Profile Image for Katie Hill.
27 reviews4 followers
January 15, 2024
Deb has done it again ❤️

From the second I read “I thought my mind was stronger” I could hear the despair in Shane’s voice in my head throughout the entire book. I love that Shane fixed multiple relationships while healing himself throughout this story. Instead of focusing on only his relationship with Violet, he works to gain his strength to face parts of himself he sees in his father, to face his best friend and come clean about his experiences, to face judgement from the people he holds the most dear. The internal struggle is extremely relatable and the subtle but ever present support system feels so organic in the way it comes about.

I love the partial recap hearing part of Tony and Cassia’s story through Shane’s eyes. I don’t think the story could have been as powerful if it didn’t have Shane’s thoughts from that other timeline.

Shane himself is amazing, but I love that Deb doesn’t fixate on the things that he does, the bike restoration, the support of Hope and Evan. His story remains about him and Deb does an amazing job of not letting her characters accomplishments overshadow their internal character.

The SPICE y’all. OMFG let me tell you, Shane is not anyone that is like, so out there that he’s going to have you like “am I into that?” But he DE-LI-VERS 100% and I’m here for it.

The bit with the “show me” and the pictures during spicy time had me instantly texting my own hubby like HEY. This. Tonight.

I love Shane, if it isn’t obvious, but I love Violet and Jasmine too. They’re so genuine and supportive and realistic and it’s so easy to love them and watch Shane fall in love with his family ❤️❤️❤️

I absolutely cannot wait to have this paperback on my shelf!!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Profile Image for T. Maree.
Author 18 books33 followers
January 7, 2024
When I say I have been biting at the bit to get my hands on this book, I am NOT lying. It was a year in the making, and SO worth the wait! Debra St James has always had a way with words, she creates characters that are realistic and lovable.
We met Shane in the Summer Twins books, and I knew back then that he was deserving of his own story, and I couldn’t wait. Shane is everything a woman could want in a man. He’s caring, loving, selfless, constantly striving to bring those around him comfort and protection. His smaller gestures are everything, and show just how truly amazing he is. He’s the epitome of a cinnamon roll hero with just the right touch of alpha that will make you swoon. His battle-hardened mind is tuned to every possible danger, but it has not hardened his heart, especially not to Violet and her adorable baby girl, Jas.
What I love about this couple is the twist on the norm. Usually, we see the male character fight and strive for the relationship, pursuing the reluctant or previously hurt woman as she figures out how to let her guard down again, but not this time. Yes, Violet has her own baggage (doesn’t everyone?) but Shane is the one with the wall between them because—in his words—"they deserve better."
No words could be further from the truth.
Violet knows he wants her just as she wants him, and the way he treasures her little girl when her own father couldn't care less is enough to make any woman’s ovaries weep. She doesn’t let a good thing slip out of her grasp because she’s scared. She fights for what she wants, she is persistent and understanding, and in this readers opinion, exactly what Shane needs.
I LOVED this story, thank you so much Debra St James for writing it. I can’t wait to see what you come out with next.
8 reviews
January 7, 2024
This book.. this book had me in the FEELS SO BAD. First off, HIGHLY RECOMMEND you first read Second Chance Summer, it’s the backstory of Toby and Cassia, I feel like you get more out of this book if you read that one. So first off, Shane is definitely my favourite character out of the books I’ve read this far from Debra St James. He has so much character development throughout the book, and he’s so interesting. I love his interactions with his mom, but more importantly I love All of the interactions he shares with Jasmine. It’s right away that you see him with her, and it’s just the cutest thing ever!!!!! Honestly if you’re a cryer, just be prepared to cry already on chapter 6. Chapter 6 I cried like a baby, I will not spoil anything, but it had my heart so warm, and I just love the way the whole chapter was written. Solid 10/10. ALSO another chapter that you will 100% cry on is chapter 24, it’s a beautifully written chapter with Shane, Violet and Jasmine, talking about Shane’s past, which made me SOB! This book is so wonderful. This is the 4th book I’ve read from Debra St James, and I will not turn back!!! I love her writing style, the spice is 🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️ and everything is perfect. I’m involved so fast!! Please give this book a read! I was in a book coma after finishing, I couldn’t find one that compared!
42 reviews
January 5, 2024
First ARC review of 2024! - I started my new year by diving into the world of Shane and Violet and let me tell you, what a world it was! Shane is former military that only allows himself to observe from afar. However, Violet, being the strong spitfire he needs, helps him realize he deserves the best things in life. Add in plenty of banter and a feisty little girl and you will fall in love with this book as I did! Go ahead and pre-order your copy of Everlasting Love today so you are all set for release on January 7th!
Profile Image for Mary.
330 reviews
January 14, 2024
Fantastic Book

I love this.book. Violet and Shane relationship is gripping and I loved how Shane eventuality stands up to his dad.


Littlee Jasmine will steal your heart. A brilliant read. I highly this book
Profile Image for Belinda.
1,164 reviews15 followers
January 13, 2024
Simply wonderful!! Oh my Shane was so divine and I thoroughly enjoyed reading this addictive book by Debra. We got to know a little bit about Shane in previous books about The Summer twins but nothing could have prepared me for how divine he is. Violet is so perfect for him but the show stealer is Jasmine. This little girl will leave you with a smile on your face as you read this delightful story. Shane’s story is at times heartbreaking but the strength and courage he shows his loved ones is just wonderful. I was hooked from the beginning and I devoured this well written book and at times I had tears as he struggles to work through his demons. Debra is a wonderful storyteller and has become a favourite author of mine. If you love books that have a damaged cinnamon roll hero and a single mum with an adorable little girl then do yourself a favour and read this one. I received this book as an arc for my honest opinion but trust me you need to read this one!
640 reviews9 followers
January 14, 2024
I think that this book is one of the most beautifully writtem and just plain beautiful books that I have every read.

I always enjoy reading Debra St James books and I've been waiting as patiently as possible for Shanes book. Oh boy was it worth it. Everlasting Love is everything I've been waiting for and so much more.

This story gave me all the feels and I think that I was probably in love with both Shane and Violet before I even picked up their story, but certainly after the first few chapters.

I can highly recommend this book. It can be read as a standalone, but is oh so much better for having read all of Debra's books previously.
Profile Image for Chaos.
3,666 reviews119 followers
January 9, 2024
This book was so beautiful in its delivery of trauma, guilt, and healing. Shane's story is heartbreaking. Everything he went through overseas and the guilt he holds from the death of his best friend. I cried, hearing his despair. Wanting him to understand he had nothing to feel guilty for and that he deserves good things. He fought himself so much. The journey he takes to healing is incredible. For that alone is why I rated this book as high as I did.

I also love Violet and the strength she showed throughout the story. All the characters were amazing, actually. I love the journey both Violet and Shane took, both together and separately. I hated what Violets ex did to her heart and to her confidence. Her kindness and her heart are the best parts of her. And to see her down and doubting herself and who she is. Well, it hurt badly. I'm so glad that Shane and Violet worked out.

The only reason this book isn't 5 stars for me is the length. I got about halfway through and was wanting to story to be over. I think it's partly because of the first 130 pages taken place in the past. It really threw me for a loop and continued to bother throughout the rest of the book.

It's still a gorgeous story of healing and coming back from horrific trauma! I look forward to more from this author.
Profile Image for Stephanie.
782 reviews
January 5, 2024
Everlasting Love
Amazing!

Tough subjects to write
Ms. ST.James has done so very eloquently.

Spousal abuse is hard to go through and come out the other side

Soldiers that have been through war and loss of friends have survivors guilt.
As this story runs parallel to Toby and Cassias story in Second Chance Summer. It will make more sense if you read this first.
Part 2 starts up 2 years after Toby and Cassias book ends.

Shane has the weight of the world on his shoulders and blames himself for everything that goes wrong as his personal failure which inhibits him from moving on and accepting love

Violet feels inadequate, but ultimately goes after what she desires most.

I love the interactions and characters that grow and elvove with each new story we get to see bits and pieces along the way that makes you take notice of each one that has come before.
John Wayne international airport is real I googled it. Lol
Profile Image for Ashley's Novel Idea.
495 reviews25 followers
January 25, 2024
I enjoyed this book overall. The writing was wonderful, and the characters were deep and diverse, and the secondary characters provided the breath of fresh air that I needed. This book is a very slow-moving book. So have patience. It's definitely worth it to stick it out in the end.

If you like raw, angsty books with a lot of emotional turmoil you will really enjoy this book. This is my first from this author and won't be my last.
Profile Image for Kim.
464 reviews18 followers
January 12, 2024
4.5 stars.
very good book. I think my only complaint would be It felt like a little was left unanswered though when it came to main male characters family issues with his dad. But putting that aside, I really did enjoy this Single mom romance.
Profile Image for A.K. Otsana.
Author 3 books21 followers
January 20, 2024
This is a book I’ve been patiently waiting for ever since Second Chance Summer. Deborah St. James, once again, did not disappoint! Her ability to create such a real and emotionally raw book, so relatable to real life, it gives the opportunity to connect with the characters on a deeper level.
So many times, we play a part to fulfill that missing piece in our life. And often, we are left so damaged. With Shane and Vi’s book, this is a gentle reminder that love can come in all forms. The right person will love every scar and every tear-soaked moment. I loved watching their relationship grow into a deeper connection.
All Vi wanted was a happily ever after. To be a wife and mother. The ideal and simple fantasy and to be wanted in the same way. Unfortunately, things didn’t work out how she expected. Divorced and left to raise her daughter on her own, she takes on each day with her head held high. And then she is introduced to Shane. Without realizing this man will become everything she ever wanted. For her and her daughter.
Shane has become accustomed to staying in the background of life. Happily providing his services to protecting his best friend, and superstar Toby Summer. Using his abilities from his time in the Army, being a bodyguard has provided him with the best use of his time. His time in the service has left him with more scars than you can’t see. Not until Vi. Violet and her sweet daughter Jasmine have turned his life upside down. Now, he would do anything for them. And he would give everything to have a future with them.
I absolutely love this book from start to finish! Such an amazing, slow-burning journey.
I received an advanced reader copy and I am leaving my honest review.
Profile Image for Kelchickbooklover.
2,095 reviews67 followers
January 8, 2024
If you are looking for an emotional, beautifully written, strangers to lovers romance that deserves more than 5 stars, look no further. Ms. St. James delivers it with Everlasting Love. This storyline deals with military trauma and mental spousal abuse, but at the same time, it gives us a story of true love, healing and a connection that no matter what happens or who gets involved never seems to break.
Shane and Violet had this instant chemistry but they both were fighting it. He was dealing with survival guilt after coming back from the war. Violet was dealing with leaving her verbally abusive and cheating husband. The worst part for Violet was the fact that her ex treated their beautiful little girl, Jasmine, with so much cruelty that it turned my stomach sour. I just wanted to reach into the book and have him meet his maker. The way that Shane put both of his girls on a pedestal and did anything and everything he could to prove to them that they were worth everything. He definitely was swoon-worthy. I loved the way that Violet was strong with everything she dealt with but also she went after exactly what she wanted. Be ready because Jasmine will steal your heart right from the start.
I highly recommend picking up this amazing and riveting book that you will not be able to put down. Ms. St. James never disappoints with her books. I suggest reading Second Chance Summer before Everlasting Love, although they are both standalones. Congratulations Ms. St. James.
167 reviews7 followers
January 5, 2024
Worth the wait! Couldn't love this book more!

What to expect:
Single mom
Friends to lovers
Aversion to touch
Dual POV
Plenty of steam with camera action
she falls first, he falls harder
former military man turned bodyguard
close proximity
a scarred cinnamon roll Hero
a heroine who wears her heart on her sleeve
secrets unveiled
self-forgiveness
no third-act breakup
🌶️🌶️🌶️
HEA

Everyone is going to fall in love with Shane, Violet, and Jasmine! The characters Debra created have stayed with me long after I finished reading! I loved how the first part gives us Shane and Violet’s perspective from the events from Second Chance Summer but then expands into their story. (Everlasting Love is a standalone but you might want to start with Second Chance Summer for some backstory!) This was such a heartbreaking story from all 3 characters and she captured it beautifully! There were so many times where i couldnt help but cry for them. Shane from the war, Violet from her disaster of a marriage, and finally from the innocent little girl who knew her father didn't want her. This book is all about healing and letting yourself move forward and be happy! I can't wait to have my own copy to put on my bookshelf! I'm honored to have received an arc and I'm leaving an honest review!
872 reviews8 followers
January 13, 2024
Absolutely fantastic!!

I have never read a book by Debra St.James that has been anything less than stellar. Everlasting Love is outstanding, even for her. I love the way her book-world is so intertwined; it makes it so realistic. It is so much fun when characters from earlier stories come out, not just to visit, but to be a vital part of the current story.

I saw this pairing coming from their first meeting in Second Chance Summer, but I hadn't realized just how VERY much these characters needed -- not just 'wanted', but NEEDED -- each other. They make a 'family by choice' long before legal relationships make them a huge, happy and loving family, full of acceotance and inclusion.

I am always left amazed by the deftness and sensitivity with which Ms.St.James approaches the characters' flaws and scars. Debra has such a kind approach to their situations that creates healing for her characters, leaving them open to accept the HEA offered to them. PTSD and survivor's guilt are huge, heavy, ugly issues that society is trying to deal with. Debra shows how we can offer kindness and acceptance to one single person at a time, and how those little acts, offered with sensitivity, authenticity, and consistency can heal the most wounded soul.

I received an ARC copy of this story directly from the author and voluntarily chose to share my review.
155 reviews2 followers
January 14, 2024
What a beautiful story about a scarred Cinnamon Roll and a lovely single mother.

Shane was an absolute pleasure to read. His relationship with Jas was wonderful to read, and his relationships with all the other characters around him proved a lot.

Violet, although she has an awful marriage, manages to break down Shane's walls and prove to him that he is loveable. She was a strong independent woman who wore her heart on her sleeve.

It was such a beautiful story that I cried on multiple occasions

Debra, you certainly have a way with words.
Profile Image for Amanda Martin.
194 reviews4 followers
January 10, 2024
This book is all about finding love when you need it most, realizing that family..even a found one…can change everything, and joy and happiness can be found in an adorable little girl.

Shane struggled with situations from his past that shaped him into the man he is today. Violet had a hard journey of love and at the end of each day she wanted someone to love her for her. The chemistry between these two flowed even before they became official. Add in an adorable and feisty little girl named Jasmine and you know it’s a recipe for a beautiful family.
Profile Image for Amy Judkins.
243 reviews42 followers
January 13, 2024
WOW! Author Debra St. James has knocked another one right out of the park!!
Do I recommend this book? YES, a MILLION times YES!! So beautifully written with every single trope woven together to bring us one hell of a story!
I loved how the two main characters, Shane and Violet, interacted with one another. They are like EVERYTHING they should be and more!
If I could give Everlasting Love more then 5 stars I would! It is that darn good.
Profile Image for Janet Hammons.
2,070 reviews8 followers
January 16, 2024
5 stars

An emotional story. Loss of all kinds and forms. I loved every word. Shane has been through hell. Violet was in a verbally abusive relationship in which her ex husband actually verbal abused their daughter. I am not a fan of Allen and actually wished I would read that he got a giant violent dose of karma. But the book was amazing without Allen being harmed. I love the kids. They make the book entertaining. The funny things they say and do. Couldn't put it down.
Profile Image for Aroha Spark.
268 reviews
June 9, 2024
fantastic hot, emotional read.

I so enjoyed this read, fully recommend it, seriously these characters are so easy to fall for this story was such a good journey. These 2 were made for each other and their love the way they grew was amazing and so easy to read. It definitely was hot also sad and heart breaking but heart warming to. Jas is adorable and I just fully enjoyed it and being back with this crew. I cant wait for the next books Deb writes.
10 reviews
January 9, 2024
Wow, you’ve done it again!

What can I say. This is a very very great book. Shane, Vi & Jas were just meant to be. The way these characters face the issues in they’re lives is a great reminder to us, as to how we should handle similar issues. Just holding someone while they cry does more than anyone realises. You’ve given us another brilliant book Deb.
Profile Image for Tonya Parker.
445 reviews3 followers
January 13, 2024
Debra St. James has brought us another 5 star read!
Shane has such a horrific past. Violet has had her share of troubles also. I love how Debra has weaved this beautiful story of trauma, heartbreak, angst, and love together for us.
This is a HEA, single parent, friends to lovers, and slow burn that will melt your heart and heat your core. This is a slow burn spicy read with some teasing and spicy bits thrown in! Loved this book so much! Thank you Debra for always taking us on a great ride!
Profile Image for Heather Burnett.
159 reviews6 followers
January 14, 2024
This book was so emotional and fantastic I couldn't put in down. So worth the read. Loved the protectiveness and passion in this story. The storyline was great. LOVED THE CHARACTERS. GOOD HEA.

I received an ARC copy of this story directly from the author and voluntarily chose to share my review.
482 reviews3 followers
January 8, 2024
This is worth the read!! 💙💜

It's such an incredible story of struggle and love.  I think Shane and Violet are perfect together.  I loved watching them find their way to each other.  This was such a moving story. 
Profile Image for Lisa Estabrook.
45 reviews
January 16, 2024
This is a book that is a definite need to read. The story is beautifully written, I won’t give out any of the story spoilers but you will not be disappointed. It’s one of those books the break you then put you back together. It is written with a duel POV, which is my favorite.
Profile Image for Torey.
318 reviews6 followers
June 23, 2024
Great story, I can just feel the pain in Shane and his battle to overcome his trauma.

The slow burn was a bit too slow for me but it was so great once it ended. I do wish we got to see their wedding.
873 reviews
September 17, 2025
A lot of traumas to unpack in this slow burn love story. I loved the characters, and the author had me rooting for them all along. The story dragged for me in places when Shane just could not get out of his own way to happiness. Overall, amazing love story with characters that felt real.
455 reviews2 followers
January 15, 2024
Shane is hero perfection. He is broken & damaged, trying to hide from the world and himself. Luckily for him, Violet makes him realize what his future could hold. Together they work through trauma and emotional distress to find them selves stronger. The writing is poignant heartfelt & emotional. The depth of the characters is outstanding. A book from Debra St. James never disappoints.
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