Memories, they say, last for a lifetime… but what if it’s only temporary?
Adulting for Berkeley So’Lei Carson started at a young age due to childhood traumas that crippled her ability to grow past her roots. When Berkeley is attacked and loses her memory, she has a chance to plant again. Longing to put her past behind her, she embarks on a journey of self-preservation. Will she harvest the right seeds in this new season of drought and disaster, or will the rain of the past yield results for the future?
Iceland “Ice” Jones's love for planes made intersecting runways a no brainer... Until his flight landed on an island fueled by the wildfires and desires of his soulmate, Berkeley So’Lei Carson. A catastrophe separated their soul tie, leaving behind the distant memories of a true soul connection. Will Iceland fight to rebuild what once brought them together, or will he leave the wasteland never to return?
Iceland and Berkeley travel up and down, faster than the speed of sound, Back Down Memory Lane. Both realizing that what once was, will always be, even if it’s forgotten in the moment.
Lamartz Brown: Author, Poetic Pen Lyricist, and Emerging Entertainment Mogul
From the vibrant streets of Paterson, New Jersey, emerges Lamartz Brown, a literary force reshaping the landscape of Contemporary Urban Literature. Graduating magna cum laude from Berkeley College, Lamartz's journey took flight with "Built On Broken Pieces," a gripping exploration of family dynamics and urban realities. Followed by the soul-stirring "Blank Canvas of You," his narrative brush stroked the transformative power of love amidst life's chaos. Most recently, "Back Down Memory Lane" further delves into the raw complexities of memory, trauma, and personal growth.
Behind these narratives lies not just a storyteller, but an architect of emotions and a champion of voices. As the founder of Life Lyrics Entertainment and the Poetic Pen Lyricist, Lamartz nurtures emerging talents, sculpting platforms for the unheard to resonate.
Beyond the inked pages, Lamartz embraces the roles of husband and father, grounding his pursuit of literary excellence in the enduring beauty of family. With each word penned, he forges a legacy that transcends pages, painting a vivid tapestry of urban life, love, and resilience.
Title: Back Down Memory Lane Author: Lamartz Brown Genre: Romance Pages: 339 Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
I promise you can’t trust nobody! Not even the people that you’re supposed to trust without a doubt. Family will show you every time that although blood is thicker than water, if the water is looking murky you can’t trust it.
I loved Berkeley and Iceland’s relationship. In love since they were young, they had a plan to be together forever. Although Berkeley was tasked with taking care of her mom and sister, Iceland was there for all of it. He not only loved her unconditionally, but he extended that same love to Berkeley’s ill mother and little sister. An unfortunate event changed the course of their journey, but as the old saying goes: if it’s yours it will come back.
Urban, Berkeley’s cousin was a mess. Like, sis. 🤦🏾♀️ Really? One thing for sure and two things for certain, people will have their own and still want yours. She got everything that was coming to her and her mama. 🙄
Mykel! Mykel! Mykel! If salted needed a mascot, he’s perfect for the position. 😂 How did he think he was going to get away with that?
This was a really good read. It read like a love song, very poetic almost. Not in a rhyming kind of way, but the love just poured off of the pages.
The ending was a very pleasant surprise, and a thug may have shed a tear 😢 😂
Lamartz you did a great job with this. My first book by this author, but definitely not my last.
Berkeley and Iceland had a beautiful young love until it was ripped away with a tragic assault that left her with no memory of who he was. He was going off to do something for his career but when asked her if she wanted him to stay, she didn't tell him to which led to them going their separate ways. Time passed by but he never forgot her so when he comes back to town for another situation that occurred he wants to try to at least be friends with her but remind her of who he was to her.
After time had passed, she did wind up getting a new boo, Mykel but I didn't like him from jump so when he got his downfall I was happy because what sir. Her cousin Urban was annoying and grimy and only about herself so I was happy that she got what she deserved as well. As I read this book I was rooting for the two of them to get back together because I felt they were a perfect fit for each other. When they were younger Iceland was always there for her and her sister and even her mom and I really felt he stepped up when she needed him the most. Watching them make their way back to each other was nice to see because it was very organic and wasn't forced but Iceland definitely knew how to satisfy her in more ways than one. I was glad we got the ending we did with these two because they were meant to be.
Berkeley and Iceland were together since they were 7 years old. They grew up together and really grew up and in love together, it was like destiny from the moment they met! Urban was always jealous and she let that jealousy destroy so much! It was like Iceland always knew they would one-day be husband and wife and even though so many bad things happened, in the end they finally got their HEA! Mykel got dragged into his crazy brother Dezmond and Urban's foolishness which was so sad and he truly needed some deep counseling! Sydney also went through a whole lot but Berkeley and Iceland had her from the beginning! This novel was a testament to what real love really looks like! A great read!!!
I fully enjoyed this book! From a bout of amnesia to reconnections and shady family members this story kept me enthalled from the beginning to the end. The number of times I laughed or said WTF & IKYFL can't be measured. I am going to have to dive into some of his other titles.
This is my first read from this author. Berkeley and Iceland. Wow had a love that transcended time. Wille and Pearl. Wow. Urban though. I cant wait to see what the author comes up with next. Awesome read.
They say keep your friends close but your enemies closer . . . But what do you do when the enemy is your family?
This was my first book by the author and it definitely won’t be my last. It had a slow start but was so worth the read. Of all the characters I loved Iceland cause talk about loyalty bae gave it‼️
When Berkeley lost her memory things between her and Ice drastically changed. The fact that he held on to hope and his love for her the entire time was so romantic. But Berkeley irked my nerves a little bit the way she pushed him away after the incident. Like sis you have no recollection of what happened or who anyone is the last thing you wanna do is push people you’ll end up needing away.
I also didn’t like Berkeley with Mykel from the moment his character was introduced. He was giving off this aggressively controlling energy. Her sister Syd did not let up off him either I know she wanted to slap some sense back into Berkeley. Then when fate brought Iceland and Berkeley back together Mykel was so pressed because he knew he was gonna lose her. AND DID‼️ Oh and let’s not forget the author gave the right amount of spice with this one too.
Overall, I enjoyed it this isn’t your typical romance and definitely recommend. The timeline jumps which I liked and there was a major plot twist you may or may not see coming. This was giving romance, messy family drama, loss, rekindled relationships, betrayal, and a little mystery. If you’re looking for a new indie author to add to your radar you found one‼️
Lamartz Brown never ceases to amaze me! This book hands down is his best work thus far. This is the 3rd book I’ve read of his and he definitely didn’t come to disappoint.
This book will have you having different types of emotions. Berkeley and Iceland’s relationship even thru tragic events still holds alot of weight! Let me tell you Iceland will do whatever it takes to be there for Berkeley. Through all of the trials they go thru Iceland will be put to the test that will show you how much he truly loves Berkeley….. let’s not forget abt Berkeley’s sister either she definitely had a strong and beautiful bond with Iceland as well!
This book is some amazing work and I can’t wait for what’s next!!
This was my first read from Lamartz Brown and I have to say I had a good time. Talk about a story where the hearts truly connect…..despite everything thrown their way. This is a second chance romance between Berkeley(Sole)and Iceland.
They are childhood sweethearts and deeply in love with each other, you could feel that immediately. Unfortunately one night Sole is attacked and when she ways up she doesn’t remember anything, not even Ice. She wants to heal and essentially focus on starting her life over so they separate. A few years pass and a tragedy brings Ice back into Sole’s world and that’s really where things start.
I love second chance romance books but usually both/all characters remember the good times and the bad. This was not that and I think that might be why I enjoyed it so much. Ice knows he and Sole belong together and she doesn’t. Her heart does but her mind won’t allow her to remember what they shared. We really got to see them fall in love again and it felt right.
Now I will say it got a little wordy at times but that could also just be me adjusting to the writers style. Nonetheless the story, the characters (even the side ones) had me completely invested. I wasn’t expecting the mystery aspect but I liked it and I was truly not expecting everything to go down the way it did.
This might have been my first Lamartz Brown read but it certainly won’t be my last. Thank you to Lamartz for the ARC, all thoughts and feelings are my own.
Omgggg this book had given me every emotion known to man. The highs and the lows was worth it. We all want that pure kind of love that Iceland gave Berkely, at least i know i do. Just the fact that he was able to show his feelings and vulnerability was unmatched! I loved the life’s lessons that he continued to pour into her on a daily basis to help keep her strong. If i could, i would give this book and author 100 stars!
This was my first introduction to the author and I can honestly say I was pretty satisfied with the story as a whole. As someone who reads quite a bit of romance, I found the story line to be fresh, which kept me reading. It wasn’t your typical “boy meets girl” story. When we meet Berkeley and Iceland, they’re already a couple and in love. Unfortunately, Berkeley gets attacked and ends up losing her memory including all knowledge of the love she shares with Iceland. We witness as they go their separate ways before eventually finding their way back into each other lives.
This story kept me on my toes, kicking off like something out of a movie. I must say at one point, I forgot I was reading a romance because there were some mystery/thriller elements introduced. I found myself wanting more of that aspect or maybe a better balance of romance and mystery because I found the “whodunit” part to be just as interesting as the love story.
All in all, this was a solid read for me. The story kept my attention and it offered a great mix of characters that each had interesting backgrounds which added to the story. If you like urban romance, action, and mystery, you definitely want to check this one out.
My Thoughts: From being to end, I was here for this story. The title itself meant so much more after reading this book.
I love the playlist. Being able to listen to it while reading this book made it so much more inviting. It created an atmosphere as though I was a part of the story. Throughout the books, there were lyrics from the songs, which took me back down memory lane.
Your play on words in this book was magnificent, and I loved it. IYKYK 😉 💬“You focus on the road while I sing on this mic real quick.” 💬"You singing on that shit, Sole.”
The love. The tragedies. The deception. The romance. The twist. The second chances. I was here for all of that and so much more. When I initially read the synopsis, I was interested. After reading this book, I was in ah and left with a smile on my face. It did what it came to do. I had so many reactions, but there was a look that I had throughout this book that had me mesmerized. 😉😜
Even though this was the first book that I read by Lamartz Brown, it will not be my last.
Berkeley and Iceland’s love story was full of trials and tribulations, but I love the fact he never gave up on her. Iceland didn’t come back and demand Sole remember who he was to her, and that, to me, solidified his willingness to wait for his forever love, regardless of how long it took.
Mykel, Dezmond, and that doggone Urban got what they deserved. Syieda don’t get brownie points from me either, because at the end of the day she should have took care of her sister instead of placing the burden on her ten year old niece.
Thoughts: This was my first book by this author. I am a sucker for a second chance romance and the way that this was written, I thoroughly enjoyed their bond. The connection that they had was witnessed and felt by all that were around them. The lengths that Iceland went through to make sure that Sole was good reminded me of my own husband. Iceland was a man who knew what he wanted, and he never acted out on his emotions. He was always in check with himself, and I admired that. I am glad that Lamartz wrote him this way and it was awesome to have a male to write this love in this way.
Secondly, the suspense aspect. I really love a romantic suspense where its the love story and something that has happened that I need to figure out why. I was stressed out with why my girl Sole stopped home before going to her initial destination, however, the author did his job because you are to ask questions. You are to be so involved that you are the investigator trying to get answers. I had a good idea of who was behind it but the reason why was also something that I needed to understand as well. I am glad that I was able to speak about this with the author to make sure I didnt overlook anything.
Thirdly, I enjoyed a story that wasn't about a millionaire or anything street related. My guy Iceland wanted to be a pilot. The characters were normal people with normal dreams. I loved that as basic as it may seem. I know many people read to escape, as I do too, however, I love realistic components as well. The author gave me that in this book.
I felt that this story did well with not having a skewed view on love. The relationship between Icelands parents was another bond that was a hilarious one. You could see the love between the two even with their banter. Ms. Pearl was HILARIOUS!! And she was about that life ..Period!!
I think that this was a great book and it is definitely worth the read. I hope all enjoy this the same way that I did. I look forward to reading more from this author as his writing was poetic to me.
Whewww how I loved everything about this book from the prologue until the epilogue which had me shed a few ones lol.
Berkeley and Ice were destined for each other and I’m glad despite how Berkeley grew up, she was able to find a love that outlast all obstacles that were in her way. Her family was certified except my boo Sydney who did a lot of growing up to do because her attitude was crazy (I understood her pain though). Ice was blessed with truly a wonderful dynamic who consisted of his parents. Lady Pearl and Mr. Willie was made for each other and they raised such a gentleman.
Ice didn’t play about his So’Lei and even due to a dramatic event, he was still ten toes behind her no matter what. This book had some twists and turns that I never expected but it made the book so captivating leaving you wanting. Family will either do two things for betray you or love you and protect you and you will see both play out but everyone got what they deserved.
I can’t wait to see what this author has in store in the future because his storytelling has you wanting more!!!
I must admit that when I heard the title of this book and saw the cover, I did not expect to read the book in its entirety nor was I expecting to like it as much as I did. Berkley and Iceland's love was a true representation of 1 Corinthians 13:4-8, we should all be so lucky to find our soulmate. There love sustained tragedy, family issues, and being on separate continents. It shows that when you really find your person for life, the love is an action that "protects, trusts, hopes, and perseveres".
This was a NTMA and I really enjoyed reading about Ice & Berkley. It was a slow burn but I enjoyed the build up. I wish there was more information given on Ms. Penny and her situation of how Sydney was conceived but that's cuz I'm extra nosey like that🤷🏽♀️🤣. It doesn't take anything away from the story. Great job 👏
This book wss soo good, i love the fact that ice never gave up on Berkeley despite everything that was going on. Syd was definitely her sister keeper this book was simply amazing and i loved it, the plot was plotting and the twist was twisting i definitely recommend this book! 5 stars spice level 2 but the love through these pages was 10.
I needed that cousin on a t-shirt or six feet under. That's how much I disliked her. The FMC & the MMC I liked but the trauma that surrounded them was great. All because of jealousy.
Iceland and Berkeley for the win. What a journey these two took. Loved Iceland and all his wisdom as well as his gangsta. Definition of a man's man. Loved Berkeley's bravery to do it scared and stand up for herself. Sidney, Willie, Ms. Pearl! Rock stars! Great read. Hoping to see more of the Jones'.
This was my first read by this author. I really enjoyed it. I got immersed in the journey of the two main characters - Iceland and Berkeley. The way that Iceland loved on Berkeley was inspiring. We should all be so lucky to have someone love us like that.
When this book was recommended to me, I had no idea what it was about, just that it was a romance written by a Black man. Okay simple, wrong! This was nothing like I imagined but that’s not a bad thing. The twists and turns that came out of a story about a woman losing her memory and forgetting her love had me gagged! I read this book as a case study to see how men write about love and I’m pleased. I love how the MMC was written and the way he showed his unconditional love. I had a good time reading this and the ending was beautiful.
This was a good read. I just really hate when someone loses their memory and takes forever to gain it back 😩 but I knew what to expect going in and gave it a try.
Aunty did right cause that demon child of hers. Just knocking people off left and right. The things people will do for money. All I here is ' Back down memory lane' singing
We all cherish the good memories that we have in life and the good memories are the things that keep us wanting to live or stay alive. The bad times that we all will experience leave marks and scars and the good memories wash those feelings away, even if only temporarily. That is why good memories, important moments and love that is passionate, are the wind beneath our wings and our sustenance. Love is supposed to make everything better. Love is supposed to be the anchor that keeps us upright and not broken. Love is a feeling that when performed properly and in a healthy manner “keeps hope alive” and brightens our heart, soul, and comforts our days.
Iceland and Berkeley’s love is just that experience that everyone who wants to be in love, wants to have. They are perfect for each other. They completed each other and they not only need each other, but cannot live without the other. Unfortunately, life did not present the fairy tale that they intended to have. Although their love was endless, they came up against obstacles that strained and broke their “unbreakable” bond.
Even love when challenged can go from “forever” to “over”. These two lovers became strangers when a violent incident changed both of their lives. All I could think of after that was how Iceland and Berkeley would be able to “Find their way Back” like the Jaheim song. Or will the scars that are left and circumstances of new loves ever allow them to heal enough to be able to “get that old thing” back and “pick up where they left off?
“Back Down Memory Lane” by Lamartz Brown, is a love story with all the trimmings of romance and “meant to be” and all the tragedy of “breakups” and “disaster”. You will love this book and the love will not die. The question is will theirs be able to be rebirth and will they finally get their “happy ever after?” You will enjoy the suspense and root for them to make it, but in the back of your mind you will know that sometimes love does go.
“Back Down Memory Lane” weaves beautiful imagery with harsh reality. It takes you back to your first love and to a time when you thought it would last. Every emotion you can feel is felt and every hope of a brighter day is wished for. Reality is pushed aside for fantasy and human nature, betrayal and deceit rears its ugly head. Lamartz does an incredible just with the suspense and numerous climaxes in this novel. I must say it is another canvas that he has turned into a nostalgic masterpiece.
Iceland (Ice) and Berkeley (Sole) loved each other since they were 9 years old. They had a beautiful love story until jealousy of her intervened causing her to have a traumatic accident. After the accident, Ice and Sole went their separate ways and went on with their lives ending up with them being separated for 5 years. Once Ice had to return to town because of a tragedy, he and Sole are drawn to each other again despite what Sole had going on. Sole was surrounded by sinister snakes and Ice returning home helped her to cut their heads off. Ice wasn't playing about his Sole and he made sure that he was there to protect her and Sydney. There were so many characters that I loved in this book: Ice, Sole when she came to her senses, Sydney, Lady Pearl and Willie. I couldn't stand all of the snakes in the book and I was glad they got what they deserved. I really enjoyed reading this romantic suspense book that contained treachery, jealousy, psychological issues along with passion, chemistry and a deep abiding love. Ice and Willie affirmation to each other was also a great part of the story that showed their love for one another. This book drew me in from the beginning and held my attention the whole time I was reading. If you haven't read this book yet, you need to because this is romantic suspense at its finest.
Sole and Ice had a love that was admired, which also led to the downfall of their relationship. Sole lost her memory due to an incident, and Ice lost the love of his life. Years later, Sole is in a new relationship. She is working on gaining what she has lost and building a business to help others. Ice has finally accomplished his dream of being a pilot, but he still misses the love of his life. Returning home after losing his mother, he finds out that their is more going on in Sole life. The twists and secrets that happened in this book were unexpected. Sole just wanted to be in love, live her life, and take care of family, but sometimes family is not there for you like they should be. Ice was a man who was raised to love his woman, and it showed. Even though him and Sole were apart for a while, he knew she was his forever. This was a great read of love, family, deceit, and jealousy, but also showed that with the right people in your corner, you will be OK. All I'm going to say, Mykel, Urban and and Dez can all take a long dirt nap!!
This is the third book by Author Lamartz Brown and he honestly did not disappoint! This book displays the talent and growth of this up and coming writer. The book is about two people whose names are Berkeley and Iceland who just seem to be destined to be together for the rest of their lives. The love they have for one another is quite surreal at times but it is something that is truly genuine. An unfortunate and traumatic event ultimately leads to the lovers separating for a period of time only for them to cross paths again. Once they do cross paths it’s crystal clear that the chemistry is undeniable between the two, but their current circumstances prove to be a challenge for them to reconnect. This book has all the makings of a true urban romance! There is love, passion, crime, plot twists and betrayal that makes the story just come alive!! Not to mention the supporting characters add all types of witty banter that just adds a deeper level to the storyline. I honestly feel Lamartz did his thing with this book and I will continue to look forward to his future work!
This book is so good. I love a good second chance romance, and this one was done right. Berkeley and Iceland were destined to be together since they were children. Berkeley had an accident and lost her memory, making her push Iceland away. They reunite 5 years later, and they begin their love story again. The suspense part of this book had me locked in, and I was not expecting all the betrayal that came to Berkeley. I loved the little sister Sydney. She was so wise to be so young, and she needs her own story. Iceland was such a good man and loved Berkeley and Iceland down. It was an amazing read, and I can't wait to read more from the author.