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It Never Was
Ivy Darling's debut novel - It Never Was
Ryen McKenny has lived her whole life in her small town of Washington. Taking care of her emotionally distraught alcoholic mother since her father left them when she was four years old.
While having to grow up too fast, she never felt like she got to be a child and have the time to find who she truly was herself because she always puts others first. And at the age of twenty-two, she is still putting everyone first.
She is now attending college, working at the same coffee shop she was hired at when she was eleven years old.
Ryen's relationship with her boyfriend, Devon, has gone from lustful love to fear.
When a new pastry cook, Parker, comes to work unexpectedly. She can't help but feel a burst of attraction the second her eyes meet with his smoky gray eyes.
But guilt eats at her with every draw that pulls her closer to this out of nowhere desire that she feels for Parker, because of her love for long time boyfriend Devon. Even with their relationship being in its own whirl of emotions and troubles.
Lines get crossed and Ryen’s world starts to spin. Ryen has to wonder if it is just her longing for attention or does Parker feel this pull the same way she does?
Navigating relationships, responsibilities, and her own emotions Ryen is forced to make a choice....a choice for herself.
Ryen McKenny has lived her whole life in her small town of Washington. Taking care of her emotionally distraught alcoholic mother since her father left them when she was four years old.
While having to grow up too fast, she never felt like she got to be a child and have the time to find who she truly was herself because she always puts others first. And at the age of twenty-two, she is still putting everyone first.
She is now attending college, working at the same coffee shop she was hired at when she was eleven years old.
Ryen's relationship with her boyfriend, Devon, has gone from lustful love to fear.
When a new pastry cook, Parker, comes to work unexpectedly. She can't help but feel a burst of attraction the second her eyes meet with his smoky gray eyes.
But guilt eats at her with every draw that pulls her closer to this out of nowhere desire that she feels for Parker, because of her love for long time boyfriend Devon. Even with their relationship being in its own whirl of emotions and troubles.
Lines get crossed and Ryen’s world starts to spin. Ryen has to wonder if it is just her longing for attention or does Parker feel this pull the same way she does?
Navigating relationships, responsibilities, and her own emotions Ryen is forced to make a choice....a choice for herself.
398 pages, Kindle Edition
First published June 28, 2024
32 people are currently reading
417 people want to read
About the author
Ivy Darling
5 books84 followersIvy Darling is a romance indie author by night.
She lives in California with her husband and child, along with their 2 dogs and 3 cats.
If she isn't writing spicy scenes you can catch her reading them instead, or crocheting another beanie for her cats.
She enjoys spending time with her little family as well as the voices in her head that just won't stop talking ( so many voices! ). She hopes that everyone enjoys her stories and gets something out of them, may it be laughs, tears, or the tingles.
She lives in California with her husband and child, along with their 2 dogs and 3 cats.
If she isn't writing spicy scenes you can catch her reading them instead, or crocheting another beanie for her cats.
She enjoys spending time with her little family as well as the voices in her head that just won't stop talking ( so many voices! ). She hopes that everyone enjoys her stories and gets something out of them, may it be laughs, tears, or the tingles.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 88 reviews
March 7, 2025
Our FMC Ryen has been with her boyfriend for 5 years but the last few years haven’t been much fun for her, he’s slowly taken her soul piece by piece until he breaks her completely. On the outside no-one would know what she’s going through, what she went through in the past…she chose to stay with the wrong guy. Her nature is of the ‘keep them happy, be unseen and quiet’.
A new pasty chef is employed at her work, he’s tall and handsome, Ryen still believing she’s in love with her boyfriend/ex doesn’t see Parker as anything other than a work colleague that all changes when he is privy to her treatment one night. Their relationship starts to build but will it all crash down on them?
It was an enjoyable read, slow to start but building up. I do think it needs a proofread as there were quite a few errors such as ‘advert’ in place of ‘avert’ to name one, if these don’t bother you and you can skip them then I say go ahead and give it a go.
A new pasty chef is employed at her work, he’s tall and handsome, Ryen still believing she’s in love with her boyfriend/ex doesn’t see Parker as anything other than a work colleague that all changes when he is privy to her treatment one night. Their relationship starts to build but will it all crash down on them?
It was an enjoyable read, slow to start but building up. I do think it needs a proofread as there were quite a few errors such as ‘advert’ in place of ‘avert’ to name one, if these don’t bother you and you can skip them then I say go ahead and give it a go.
June 20, 2024
This book was so different from what I expected. For a debut novel I thought this was great. I will say it covers incredibly heavy and triggering topics so make sure to check those trigger warnings.
I think this book was very unique in the POVs it provided (specifically including Devon’s POV was unique to me from what I’ve read before).
I love Parker so much! He somehow always said and did the right thing and just made my heart melt!
This book also had me gripped! Like my own paranoia grew with Ryens as the book went on! I think the pacing was great though and never felt dull.
One thing that did throw me off though was that there were some grammatical errors that at times got distracting while reading.
But if that doesn’t bother you and you like a dark romance you should check this out. I think it was a good and unique story!
I think this book was very unique in the POVs it provided (specifically including Devon’s POV was unique to me from what I’ve read before).
I love Parker so much! He somehow always said and did the right thing and just made my heart melt!
This book also had me gripped! Like my own paranoia grew with Ryens as the book went on! I think the pacing was great though and never felt dull.
One thing that did throw me off though was that there were some grammatical errors that at times got distracting while reading.
But if that doesn’t bother you and you like a dark romance you should check this out. I think it was a good and unique story!
June 23, 2024
This book was beautifully written and I loved every moment of it!!
The FMC goes through so much trauma and the MMC is so patient with her. He does everything he can to make her feel safe and it’s perfection!
Devon is a pile of trash… I’ve never hated a book character more than I hate him. The WORST!
It is a super slow burn but the spice is worth the wait!! Definitely recommend this one!
🌶️🌶️/5
The FMC goes through so much trauma and the MMC is so patient with her. He does everything he can to make her feel safe and it’s perfection!
Devon is a pile of trash… I’ve never hated a book character more than I hate him. The WORST!
It is a super slow burn but the spice is worth the wait!! Definitely recommend this one!
🌶️🌶️/5
June 9, 2024
Wow….just wow! I received this first debit book by Ivy Darling as an ARC reader. I became engulfed in this novel. The story has become one of my favourites as it resonated with me at a personal level. For me as a reader there has been so much healing and allowed space for my own grief. I cried, laughed, and felt awe through the story. I could not put this down. The way Ivy writes holds your full attention. It is direct and concise each moment having a point or reason. 10/10 would recommend. Please read trigger warnings adult book 18+ due to theme content.
Congratulations Ivy Darling! Thank you for this book.
Congratulations Ivy Darling! Thank you for this book.
June 6, 2024
I have been impatiently waiting to read this book for over a year I think… a very long time. I’ve been following Ivy on social media and have been hooked since.
I literally read the book in two days. I couldn’t and didn’t want to put it down. I had also had stopped reading the book I was reading when I got the email.
I honestly wish I could read this book again for the first time.
And after finishing I couldn’t resist I messaged Ivy and told her I loved it at 3:40am.
This is by far a 5 star read. And will be in my top favorites for this year. And I NEED book trophy of this soon!
The emotions she wrote into this book. The layers of the characters.
Parker is my new favorite book bf. I mean tall dark and yummy and pastries. What’s not to love.
The twist threw me off. But it was fitting for the story.
I’m terrible at writing reviews but if you couldn’t tell already I Loved the book. A lot.
I literally read the book in two days. I couldn’t and didn’t want to put it down. I had also had stopped reading the book I was reading when I got the email.
I honestly wish I could read this book again for the first time.
And after finishing I couldn’t resist I messaged Ivy and told her I loved it at 3:40am.
This is by far a 5 star read. And will be in my top favorites for this year. And I NEED book trophy of this soon!
The emotions she wrote into this book. The layers of the characters.
Parker is my new favorite book bf. I mean tall dark and yummy and pastries. What’s not to love.
The twist threw me off. But it was fitting for the story.
I’m terrible at writing reviews but if you couldn’t tell already I Loved the book. A lot.
July 11, 2024
Definitely a book you need to check trigger warnings for! However, it is the first book I have devoured in less than 2 days! I loved every part of it! Being my first ARC I was a little apprehensive starting but I am so glad I was picked to read this!! Ryen is a girl you just want to wrap your arms around a give the biggest hug to with having such a hard up bringing and then dealing with her douchbag boyfriend Devon (who you just cant help but hate) when Parker comes along making Ryen see that she can be treated much better!! I think Parker is my new book boyfriend!! I can’t wait to read more from Ivy Darling.
March 25, 2024
I beta this book and it is absolutely amazing!! 10000/10 recommend!! The main characters are perfection. I am obsessed with Parker. He is the definition of the perfect man. His patience for Ryen after everything she went through was everything she needed. I am seriously so in love with them. I don’t want to spoil anything but seriously this book is a must read!!
July 27, 2024
Ryen’s father left the family when she was four, and her mother become a complete alcoholic in his absence, bringing men into their home, uncaring about her responsibilities as a parent. To compensate for her mother’s lack of financial support, Ryen gets a job at the local bakery, at age 10, earning money to purchase food and things she needs. With the death of the bakery’s pastry chef, Ryen’s boss hires the over-qualified Parker to take the job- which would be fine if Ryen wasn’t so attracted to him.
Ryen’s dating Devon, and has been for about 6 years. Devon has taken their relationship from normal to abusive, so slowly over the years, carefully molding Ryen into a submissive girlfriend with low self esteem, questioning her own sanity against Devon’s abuses. Now Ryen is fearful more than she’s happy, and Devon gets off on that.
Ryen isn’t the only one with attraction feelers, Parker is also attracted to Ryen, and he notices the way she cowers with her boyfriend and the sadness in her eyes. Parker wants to help Ryen heal, and make her his own. Devon isn’t ok with Parker entering the picture, and he refuses to let Ryen go.
This was way deeper than I was expecting. Ryen’s trauma’s are many, and this book really lays them on thick, handling it in a realistic way. So I’d say check the triggers of abuse is a no go for you.
I couldn’t tell that this was a debut novel!! And I’m so looking forward to reading more by this author. The story moved along quickly, never a dull moment. The second half moved much quicker than the first half, with a strong edge of your seat ending.
I, personally, wanted more Devon. He was fucking crazy and it gave the story that thriller quality. He seems to almost fade into the background though, punishing Ryen with his absence. It’s kind of a mind fuck in that way. His abuse had lasting effects for Ryen in his absence. She’d question whether they were together after being ignored for a week or two at a time, feeling horrible for even enjoying Parker’s company. That, to me, was frustrating- Devon being there but not. I didn’t want Ryen to go through more abuse, but I expected Devon to exert more crazy, so this ended up feeling different from the typical dark romance.
4.5 Stars
Ryen’s dating Devon, and has been for about 6 years. Devon has taken their relationship from normal to abusive, so slowly over the years, carefully molding Ryen into a submissive girlfriend with low self esteem, questioning her own sanity against Devon’s abuses. Now Ryen is fearful more than she’s happy, and Devon gets off on that.
Ryen isn’t the only one with attraction feelers, Parker is also attracted to Ryen, and he notices the way she cowers with her boyfriend and the sadness in her eyes. Parker wants to help Ryen heal, and make her his own. Devon isn’t ok with Parker entering the picture, and he refuses to let Ryen go.
This was way deeper than I was expecting. Ryen’s trauma’s are many, and this book really lays them on thick, handling it in a realistic way. So I’d say check the triggers of abuse is a no go for you.
I couldn’t tell that this was a debut novel!! And I’m so looking forward to reading more by this author. The story moved along quickly, never a dull moment. The second half moved much quicker than the first half, with a strong edge of your seat ending.
I, personally, wanted more Devon. He was fucking crazy and it gave the story that thriller quality. He seems to almost fade into the background though, punishing Ryen with his absence. It’s kind of a mind fuck in that way. His abuse had lasting effects for Ryen in his absence. She’d question whether they were together after being ignored for a week or two at a time, feeling horrible for even enjoying Parker’s company. That, to me, was frustrating- Devon being there but not. I didn’t want Ryen to go through more abuse, but I expected Devon to exert more crazy, so this ended up feeling different from the typical dark romance.
4.5 Stars
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
June 6, 2024
Im highly recommending this book to anyone who likes small town romance, looking for healing, or anyone that enjoyed Hunting Adeline after she was found.
This book starts with the love interest being toxic af but then you meet Parker. Parker makes the whole story go ROUND. I loved this story, Ryen growth is everything, I think I would have liked to see just a little more, but the growth is still amazing.
Paul aka Papa Smurf (only to me) is the father figure I wanted to see for our girl Ryen!
The ending of this book is everything you need to help you process the characters and what needs to happen, and they had it coming (you’ll know what I mean when you read it).
This book starts with the love interest being toxic af but then you meet Parker. Parker makes the whole story go ROUND. I loved this story, Ryen growth is everything, I think I would have liked to see just a little more, but the growth is still amazing.
Paul aka Papa Smurf (only to me) is the father figure I wanted to see for our girl Ryen!
The ending of this book is everything you need to help you process the characters and what needs to happen, and they had it coming (you’ll know what I mean when you read it).
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
June 17, 2024
The fastest book I’ve read in a long time… less than 24 hours. It was also my first e-book and my first ARC!
It was the authors first book, and in some parts I found the writing was a little clunky, especially in the first half.
I don’t say this often but I think it could have been longer, and more in between scenes built between Parker and Ryen as the “I love you” seemed to come quickly for people who make coffee and pastries together IMO.
My jaw was on the FLOOR when the twist puts the pieces together which really saved this book for me.
It was the authors first book, and in some parts I found the writing was a little clunky, especially in the first half.
I don’t say this often but I think it could have been longer, and more in between scenes built between Parker and Ryen as the “I love you” seemed to come quickly for people who make coffee and pastries together IMO.
My jaw was on the FLOOR when the twist puts the pieces together which really saved this book for me.
July 2, 2024
✨️Arc review✨️
It never was by Ivy Darling
✨️Workplace Romance
✨️Slow Burn
✨️He falls first
✨️Multi POV
✨️Protective MMC
✨️Healing FMC
✨️Dark Aspects
✨️Trauma healing
✨️Forced proximity
Ryen is going through alot with work, her home life, and doing her best to graduate college all while dealing with her abusive boyfriend. Can she manage to get out of his grip or fall deeper in his web of lies?
Parker, new pastry chef at Morning Cup and the ultimate golden retriever, he works alongside Ryen and little by little he sees she's in over her head with everything. All he wants to do is make her life easier and make her happy. Will he be able to do that or will her circumstances keep them apart?
Wow!! This was so beautiful, dark, and tells the story of how thr fmc deals with trauma. Amazing debut and cant wait to read more from Ivy!!
Thank you so much for letting me arc read this!!
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🌶🌶
Available Now!!
It never was by Ivy Darling
✨️Workplace Romance
✨️Slow Burn
✨️He falls first
✨️Multi POV
✨️Protective MMC
✨️Healing FMC
✨️Dark Aspects
✨️Trauma healing
✨️Forced proximity
Ryen is going through alot with work, her home life, and doing her best to graduate college all while dealing with her abusive boyfriend. Can she manage to get out of his grip or fall deeper in his web of lies?
Parker, new pastry chef at Morning Cup and the ultimate golden retriever, he works alongside Ryen and little by little he sees she's in over her head with everything. All he wants to do is make her life easier and make her happy. Will he be able to do that or will her circumstances keep them apart?
Wow!! This was so beautiful, dark, and tells the story of how thr fmc deals with trauma. Amazing debut and cant wait to read more from Ivy!!
Thank you so much for letting me arc read this!!
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🌶🌶
Available Now!!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 23, 2024
Absolutely beautiful!
For a debut novel I thought this novel was amazing. It does cover very triggering topics & dark content so definitely go in aware of these things. Check your trigger warnings & don’t just dive in blindly. I loved every minute of this wild ride. The female main character struggled & goes through so much trauma & overcame so much. The male main character was so patient & attentive with her, he was absolutely perfection.
It is a super slow burn but so worth it!
I can’t wait to see what else Ivy Darling has in store for us!
For a debut novel I thought this novel was amazing. It does cover very triggering topics & dark content so definitely go in aware of these things. Check your trigger warnings & don’t just dive in blindly. I loved every minute of this wild ride. The female main character struggled & goes through so much trauma & overcame so much. The male main character was so patient & attentive with her, he was absolutely perfection.
It is a super slow burn but so worth it!
I can’t wait to see what else Ivy Darling has in store for us!
September 15, 2024
Amazing first novel for bestie! I related to the main character on a personal level so i shed a few tears here and there 🥹
July 16, 2025
Well, the trauma and abuse was set up nicely but I wish this book was longer.
• Trauma healing
• Workplace forced proximity
• He falls first and HARD
• Slow burn
• Burn down the world for her
• Dark aspects
One of my fav parts:
• Trauma healing
• Workplace forced proximity
• He falls first and HARD
• Slow burn
• Burn down the world for her
• Dark aspects
One of my fav parts:
It should not be wandering.
I told myself this the minute I saw her look up at me from her chair when I came for my interview that I would not cross that line, not in the workplace. But when she looked up at me through her lashes, the look behind her deep green eyes made my whole body respond.
Fuck, she is drop dead gorgeous, and she doesn't even know.
How can she not know how absolutely breathtaking she is? The way she smiles at the customers, her voice, the way her eyes light up when she gets in the zone making coffee orders, and how everyone is drawn to her. I mean fuck, the way she was moving her body this morning when she didn't realize I had come in for my shift. Even the way she was sipping her americano as she started her movements in work mode with her friend Willow. There is no way she can't see all this.
"Of course I noticed, how could I not?" His hand jolted up as a strand of hair released from behind my ear, I recoiled at the quick movement. His hand paused midair and retreated into his apron pockets. Looking remorseful as he rocked on the heels of his feet.
"Sorry." My voice barely a whisper, I was surprised it didn't crack as I apologized. Logically I knew he wasn't going to hurt me, but those triggers were something I couldn't stop. He looked so disappointed, hurt even. His eyes snapped at me as the word set in, locking those ash filled hues with mine.
"Don't apologize for wounds you didn't create Ryen. I am just mad at myself…" His eyes dropped to the floor, and I was more confused than ever. What did he have to be mad at himself for? "I shouldn't have tried to touch you." My heart dipped in my chest.
"No, Parker it's me—"
"Don't do that Ryen." He interjected, "Don't blame yourself. I just want you to feel safe with me, I want you, your mind, your body…" His eyes trailed down my frame, my stomach turned from the hot gaze he was giving me, "I want to make you feel safe." His eyes shot back to meet mine, "I don't want you to feel safe because I am telling you to feel safe." His gaze grew intense.
"I know what you are trying to say…" I take a deep breath in, "and thank you
November 7, 2024
This was a really good book. I devoured it. Please check your triggers on this book. This was my first book by Ivy Darling and it did not disappoint. I loved this story line there were multiple POVs. The only thing I wish was for more POVs from Parker and Devon. My heart broke for Ryen, everything she had been through and was going through. Ryen’s mom was something else though. All I can say is Devon is a creep. I had a bad feeling about him from the get go. The other thing I really liked about this book is Ryen’s boss Paul took her in when she was 11 and gave her a job and pretty much took care of her. I kept screaming at Ryen to tell people what was going on with her and Devon and she just kept quiet about it until Parker. I love Parker so much, he was just a light for Ryen and showed her what unconditional love was. He took her broken pieces and put them back together. I honestly feel like this book was beautifully written and it was tasteful. You feel the real emotion of each character.
June 23, 2024
It Never Was is Ivy Darling’s debut novel and is so well written. The plot and character development is 🤌🏼 This is a dark romance so please check the trigger warnings before reading, this digs deep into some heavy topics. Ryen and Devon’s relationship hasn’t been good in a long time, but Ryen keeps hanging onto it. I think partly because of history and her undeniable attraction to him, definition of a trauma bond. Then Parker starts as the new pastry chef at the coffee shop she works at and she questions everything she thought she wanted. I love that the author gives us multiple POVs, not just Ryen and Parker but we get Devon’s POV also. Devon is a real jerk and saying he has major issues is an understatement!! Parker is swoon worthy and the little twist at the end just brought the whole book together. This is just so well written, it drew me in and I couldn’t put it down. I’m excited to see what else Ivy has to offer, I will definitely bring reading her future book.
June 30, 2024
Ivy released a solid debut novel! She created a great story that had me riveted for most of the journey.
I felt for Ryen so much in this story and felt incredible anger towards Devon with his gaslighting and general behavior. I just kept thinking that I wanted to pull a “Goodbye Earl” on him.
Parker~fabulous, amazing man! Touch her and d— but also a gentle, caring guy.
I was born and raised and still live in Washington, not far from where this story is set so it was also nice to read about a place that I can visualize. The only thing that bothered me with that was this book kinda gave small town vibes and where the college is located is not a small town.
I really enjoyed this book overall. Some of the writing was a little clunky with some parts moving too fast and others moving too slowly. I think Ivy has a ton of potential, great storyteller and she did a great job with her first book.
I felt for Ryen so much in this story and felt incredible anger towards Devon with his gaslighting and general behavior. I just kept thinking that I wanted to pull a “Goodbye Earl” on him.
Parker~fabulous, amazing man! Touch her and d— but also a gentle, caring guy.
I was born and raised and still live in Washington, not far from where this story is set so it was also nice to read about a place that I can visualize. The only thing that bothered me with that was this book kinda gave small town vibes and where the college is located is not a small town.
I really enjoyed this book overall. Some of the writing was a little clunky with some parts moving too fast and others moving too slowly. I think Ivy has a ton of potential, great storyteller and she did a great job with her first book.
August 5, 2024
I have been in a proverbial book slump and this book pulled me out and threw me back in with a vengeance. A book has not made me stop in a LONG time. And this is not a discredit to Ivy whatsoever. Every trigger is listed and my dumb ^ss was like "watch me". It Never Was helped heal something that I didn't know needed to be fixed. It was the perfect cocktail of trauma and healing and I am still in awe that I found a book that could address those feelings I hid in the back of my mind closet.
*Potential Spoiler but it IS listed in the TW*
As a survivor, it can be hard to find books that describe that feeling of dread, numbness, and sexuality that comes with re-discovering yourself and finding peace post trauma. Ivy does this beautifully and I cannot thank you enough, personally.
While this book is over, I am eager to see what she releases next. Must read, be mindful of your triggers.
*Potential Spoiler but it IS listed in the TW*
As a survivor, it can be hard to find books that describe that feeling of dread, numbness, and sexuality that comes with re-discovering yourself and finding peace post trauma. Ivy does this beautifully and I cannot thank you enough, personally.
While this book is over, I am eager to see what she releases next. Must read, be mindful of your triggers.
June 9, 2024
I LOVED this book, please check your trigger warnings though as there are triggers in it.
First of all I HATE Devon and Suzie, they both definitely have a screw loose. They both got what was coming to them. I was definitely stunned to say the least. That was one hell of a plot twist. Ryen was such a sweetheart throughout the book who didn’t deserve the cards dealt to her. Now freaking Parker on the other hand, where can I find one of him. The patience and support he gave Ryen after figuring out what was going on between her and Devon had me swooning. The tension between him and Ryen was ahhhh chefs kiss!! This book definitely took you on a rollar coaster ride between all the events that occurred. Let me just throw this in here real quick everyone needs a Willow!!
Rating
4.5/5⭐️
2.5/5🌶️
Would I recommend? YESSSS
June 23, 2024
4.25⭐
This is a deeply emotional story with some dark and traumatic content.
⚠️Please read the trigger warnings⚠️
I read this book in a day, couldn't put it down. What a great debut novel!
I was so engaged and connected to the characters. Ryen was dealt a traumatic hand from childhood, and you could feel this unhealed trauma in how she allowed her boyfriend Devon to treat her. Devon was just all sorts of effed up. The more we learned about her the more proud I was of her for taking charge of her life and trying to make something of herself.
Parker was a breath of fresh air in all the heaviness of this story. His "touch her and die" vibes were a nice balance to his softness with Ryen.
If you are ok with the trigger warnings, I definitely recommend this book!
Thank you to the author for the ARC!
This is a deeply emotional story with some dark and traumatic content.
⚠️Please read the trigger warnings⚠️
I read this book in a day, couldn't put it down. What a great debut novel!
I was so engaged and connected to the characters. Ryen was dealt a traumatic hand from childhood, and you could feel this unhealed trauma in how she allowed her boyfriend Devon to treat her. Devon was just all sorts of effed up. The more we learned about her the more proud I was of her for taking charge of her life and trying to make something of herself.
Parker was a breath of fresh air in all the heaviness of this story. His "touch her and die" vibes were a nice balance to his softness with Ryen.
If you are ok with the trigger warnings, I definitely recommend this book!
Thank you to the author for the ARC!
June 24, 2024
WOW
What a rollercoaster! This is an incredible book! Ivy Darling did a fantastic job telling this story and it was so heartbreaking but so beautiful. This book was very healing for me and i feel like i will forever have a very close connection to this book and to ryen. As someone who has shared trauma's with this story it was difficult to read at times but definitely so therapeutic as well and just incredibly beautiful. This book will forever be in my heart I will love these characters and I will cherish this book forever it is definitely in my top three for the year. And Parker is everything and I am so happy to have gotten to know him in this book he was such a beautifully written character and made this book so healing. What an amazing story i am so grateful for Ivy's beautifully written words.
What a rollercoaster! This is an incredible book! Ivy Darling did a fantastic job telling this story and it was so heartbreaking but so beautiful. This book was very healing for me and i feel like i will forever have a very close connection to this book and to ryen. As someone who has shared trauma's with this story it was difficult to read at times but definitely so therapeutic as well and just incredibly beautiful. This book will forever be in my heart I will love these characters and I will cherish this book forever it is definitely in my top three for the year. And Parker is everything and I am so happy to have gotten to know him in this book he was such a beautifully written character and made this book so healing. What an amazing story i am so grateful for Ivy's beautifully written words.
June 28, 2024
If you know me, you'd know that me and slow burns have a love dislike with each other, BUT Ivy sucked me in from the very beginning. When the spice happened, it was absolutely perfect. There is definitely enough going on throughout the book that keeps you entertained without making you feel overwhelmed. And I appreciated the wait for that moment more so.
Even tho I LOATH Devon and wanted to yeet him out of the whole damn book 🤣... I do appreciate how Ivy let us see his POV. I've never seen-read that before in a book. I think it helped better understand his mind set a bit. He does make my top 5 book character crap list, lol.
There was so much Ryen went through that's absolutely heartbreaking. I connected with her in that we both have alcoholic mothers who are just mean. Even tho I did break down a bit, it was worth pushing through. It Never Was is a phenomenal read and, as of right now, making my top 5 reads of the year. I see Ivy becoming one of my must read Authors!
Even tho I LOATH Devon and wanted to yeet him out of the whole damn book 🤣... I do appreciate how Ivy let us see his POV. I've never seen-read that before in a book. I think it helped better understand his mind set a bit. He does make my top 5 book character crap list, lol.
There was so much Ryen went through that's absolutely heartbreaking. I connected with her in that we both have alcoholic mothers who are just mean. Even tho I did break down a bit, it was worth pushing through. It Never Was is a phenomenal read and, as of right now, making my top 5 reads of the year. I see Ivy becoming one of my must read Authors!
July 3, 2024
This book was so gooodd!! I love everything about this book. I read it in one sitting. Parker is EVERYTHING. He is everything that Ryen needs, and she is everything that Parker needs. I love that he is so patient with her and wants her to feel safe with him.
I loved the side characters in this book, especially Gabe and Willow. Gabe and Willow added a little nice comic relief to the story just because it was a little heavy on the trauma, so it was nice to have them. Overall, I had a great time reading this book. I 100% recommend. I can’t wait to see more from Ms. Darling, and what she has up her sleeve for us. Without a doubt, I'll be reading whatever she releases in the future.
Tropes:
💗Trauma healing
💗Workplace forced proximity
💗He falls first and HARD
💗Slow burn
💗Burn down the world for her
💗Dark aspects
**Please always check trigger warnings**
I loved the side characters in this book, especially Gabe and Willow. Gabe and Willow added a little nice comic relief to the story just because it was a little heavy on the trauma, so it was nice to have them. Overall, I had a great time reading this book. I 100% recommend. I can’t wait to see more from Ms. Darling, and what she has up her sleeve for us. Without a doubt, I'll be reading whatever she releases in the future.
Tropes:
💗Trauma healing
💗Workplace forced proximity
💗He falls first and HARD
💗Slow burn
💗Burn down the world for her
💗Dark aspects
**Please always check trigger warnings**
June 21, 2024
eARC Review:
**This book was very emotional and triggering so make sure you read the trigger warnings because it can get very heavy.
Parker was a walking green flag and this man made the book. The way he treats Ryen and lets her express her feelings in her own time is so sweet. The walk-in fridge scene broke my heart because I felt that. Devon is trash and very irritating when he takes over as the narrator. That man got what he deserved in the end but I wish it would have happened sooner to be honest. The ending was for sure not what I was expecting but it was equal parts terrifying, suspenseful, and heartbreaking. Definitely a must-read but you have to be strong enough to handle the heaviness because it is throughout the book and gets discussed in detail.
**This book was very emotional and triggering so make sure you read the trigger warnings because it can get very heavy.
Parker was a walking green flag and this man made the book. The way he treats Ryen and lets her express her feelings in her own time is so sweet. The walk-in fridge scene broke my heart because I felt that. Devon is trash and very irritating when he takes over as the narrator. That man got what he deserved in the end but I wish it would have happened sooner to be honest. The ending was for sure not what I was expecting but it was equal parts terrifying, suspenseful, and heartbreaking. Definitely a must-read but you have to be strong enough to handle the heaviness because it is throughout the book and gets discussed in detail.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
June 23, 2024
This book hits hard. There are heavy topics in this story, but do not let this detour you from reading.
Ivy did an amazing job with her debut book: It Never Was. This is raw, and real, and emotional. Ryen is such an amazing and strong FMC who discovers who finds her own strength. And Parker! Ooooh that man is everything, and more. Those two together is so so sweet and passionate. I definitely recommend this for everyone and anyone.
The only thing I would like to address is that I wish the author made a way to decipher when a character is having a flashback. That was the only thing that threw me off.
With that said, check the trigger warnings. But read this if you can! It is so so good!
Thank you to Ivy for the eARC.
Ivy did an amazing job with her debut book: It Never Was. This is raw, and real, and emotional. Ryen is such an amazing and strong FMC who discovers who finds her own strength. And Parker! Ooooh that man is everything, and more. Those two together is so so sweet and passionate. I definitely recommend this for everyone and anyone.
The only thing I would like to address is that I wish the author made a way to decipher when a character is having a flashback. That was the only thing that threw me off.
With that said, check the trigger warnings. But read this if you can! It is so so good!
Thank you to Ivy for the eARC.
June 26, 2024
It Never Was is the debut novel by Ivy Darling! 🖤 It is a *dark* romance with some big trigger warnings, so please read at your own discretion.
I’ve been trying to read books outside my comfort zone, and this was honestly a challenge. I almost stopped reading because it was a lot, but I’m happy I stuck with it and finished the book.
There was a good balance of light and dark in this book. Parker is the sweetest man and I love how gentle and patient he is with Ryen. And while the dark moments are definitely dark, Ivy’s writing is so intense and so well written. I loved the twists and turns of this story and I was compelled to keep reading to the very end!
For lovers of dark romance, this one is definitely for you! 🖤
I’ve been trying to read books outside my comfort zone, and this was honestly a challenge. I almost stopped reading because it was a lot, but I’m happy I stuck with it and finished the book.
There was a good balance of light and dark in this book. Parker is the sweetest man and I love how gentle and patient he is with Ryen. And while the dark moments are definitely dark, Ivy’s writing is so intense and so well written. I loved the twists and turns of this story and I was compelled to keep reading to the very end!
For lovers of dark romance, this one is definitely for you! 🖤
July 2, 2024
Received as an ARC.
🖤 Traumatic past
🖤 Forced proximity
🖤 Workplace romance
🖤 Trigger heavy
🖤 He falls first
🖤 Slow burn
Ok this was one heavy debut novel but what a debut it was, it was so well written and truly conveyed the turmoil Ryen endured through her life. Parker was the perfect MMC to help her overcome everything she went through to come out the other side smiling, he is the new book boyfriend that everyone needs.
This one is a traumatic read in places so check your triggers if that’s an issue for you, personally I felt all subject matters were handled well and with the upmost sensitivity. They don’t feel like they were in the story just for shock value which was nice to see. Well done Eva on all counts.
🖤 Traumatic past
🖤 Forced proximity
🖤 Workplace romance
🖤 Trigger heavy
🖤 He falls first
🖤 Slow burn
Ok this was one heavy debut novel but what a debut it was, it was so well written and truly conveyed the turmoil Ryen endured through her life. Parker was the perfect MMC to help her overcome everything she went through to come out the other side smiling, he is the new book boyfriend that everyone needs.
This one is a traumatic read in places so check your triggers if that’s an issue for you, personally I felt all subject matters were handled well and with the upmost sensitivity. They don’t feel like they were in the story just for shock value which was nice to see. Well done Eva on all counts.
June 17, 2024
It Never Was is a dark, emotional read. The plot and the story are well thought out and the pace towards the end does pick up and provides the reader with some twists.
Personally, I found this read to be intense, however, the intensity did not phase me (be considerate of the TWs before reading). I enjoyed it, but I was not fully captivated by it. While there were moments that had me drawn in and unable to put the book down, other moments just felt disconnected.
Overall, this is a book I will likely read again if and when the mood strikes and I would recommend it, but it did not blow my mind. For a debut novel, this was commendable.
Personally, I found this read to be intense, however, the intensity did not phase me (be considerate of the TWs before reading). I enjoyed it, but I was not fully captivated by it. While there were moments that had me drawn in and unable to put the book down, other moments just felt disconnected.
Overall, this is a book I will likely read again if and when the mood strikes and I would recommend it, but it did not blow my mind. For a debut novel, this was commendable.
June 26, 2024
It Never Was is a debut novel from Ivy Darling, it is a dark romance with heavy topics/content
Be mindful of the TW/CW as scenes/topics may not be suitable for some.
For a debut Ivy did a really great job, the story/plot and characters were well written and there were twists which kept me intrigued, this was an emotional read with dark and traumatic content. The story really made you feel for Ryen and all she has been through. It’s in multiple POV which I always enjoy because I love seeing everyone’s perspectives. Overall it was a good read and I recommend to all the lovers of dark romance with heavy topics.
Be mindful of the TW/CW as scenes/topics may not be suitable for some.
For a debut Ivy did a really great job, the story/plot and characters were well written and there were twists which kept me intrigued, this was an emotional read with dark and traumatic content. The story really made you feel for Ryen and all she has been through. It’s in multiple POV which I always enjoy because I love seeing everyone’s perspectives. Overall it was a good read and I recommend to all the lovers of dark romance with heavy topics.
July 2, 2024
I can’t believe this is a debut!
First and foremost, please check content warnings as this deals with highly sensitive on-page scenes.
This book broke and repaired my heart so many times. Ryen is an amazing character who has recovered from and is dealing with so much! The way this story is written kept me engaged to the point that I flew through it. The majority of the book is from Ryen’s POV but, in a super smart move, we also get short chapters from both Parker and Devon’s viewpoint. I loved that so much. If you are looking for a high angst, highly emotional book full of suspense, this is the book for you!
First and foremost, please check content warnings as this deals with highly sensitive on-page scenes.
This book broke and repaired my heart so many times. Ryen is an amazing character who has recovered from and is dealing with so much! The way this story is written kept me engaged to the point that I flew through it. The majority of the book is from Ryen’s POV but, in a super smart move, we also get short chapters from both Parker and Devon’s viewpoint. I loved that so much. If you are looking for a high angst, highly emotional book full of suspense, this is the book for you!
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