In The End

by Kelsey Whitney

Mitch Beckman has always questioned his family dynamics, particularly why he and his dad were never truly able to connect. Searching through the things his father left behind, he comes across a photo that might explain it all.

In 1983, Jack and Darcy are engaged to be married but hesitant to pull the trigger. When Jack is offered a job in Mount Pleasant, South Carolina, the two leave their West Virginia home in search of a better life. Hoping that a change of scenery will take the edge off their tense relationship, Darcy reluctantly agrees to the move. Jack settles in quickly, but soon realizes that there's nothing he can do to make Darcy happy. As they get to know the couple next door, the lines get blurred and boundaries are crossed.

Three decades later, Mitch Beckman really just wants to know: what happened when his parents were younger, and who is his father?

Genres: Romance

295 pages, Paperback

First published June 6, 2022

About the author

Kelsey Whitney is a West Virginian with a heart for the coast. In her debut novel, Whitney joins the ranks of authors who know for certain, the Carolinas are a place to call home.

Reviews

[Madison Wright · Rating 5 out of 5]

✨ORIGINAL, HEARTWARMING SUMMER READ✨

This book gives you everything you could want in a summer romance—beach setting, vintage vibes, sunset kisses. This book gives ALL THE FEELS.

The story flips back and forth between the past and present, leaving you wondering exactly what led to the events going on today. Everything connects in the most satisfying of ways!

In The End is perfect for fans of Elin Hilderbrand and Kristy Woodson Harvey!

Read if you love:
* summer vibes ☀️
* love letters to the eighties
* cinnamon roll heroes
* dual pov
* polaroids 📷
* sweet, closed door romance

[Megan Rohrbach · Rating 4 out of 5]

this was such a sweet, heart warming beach read. the way my heart ached the entire time is unreal! this is the kind of love story that will make you believe that true love is everlasting.

this story is fast paced and told from three POVs over two timelines, which i really liked. we start in the present, then get transported to 35 years ago where everything began.

this is a quick read so if you’re looking for in depth detail and a drawn out, slow burn love story with a lot of spice, this might not be for you. i wish the love story was a little more slow paced, but i really loved the ending.

if you’re looking for a heart wrenching love story with a beautiful south carolina setting, this is perfect summer read for you.

thank you netgalley for the e-arc! all opinions are my own.

[Dakota · Rating 5 out of 5]

What a gorgeous book! Not only is the cover so aesthetically pleasing, but the southern romance within will have your heart warming instantly. I loved these characters so much and I felt so invested in their lives, rooting for their happiness. Jack and Alice are adorable together but had to go through so many hurdles to finally be together and doesn't that just make for the perfect love story? When, against all odds, two people inevitably make their way back to one another.

I absolutely adored the setting of this and Kelsey does a lovely job of transporting you to the waters of South Carolina. The little cottages, boat rides, even mention of classic southern dishes. It made me yearn for my American home of NC. But until I can visit, I'll just keep thinking about this beautiful debut. Congrats, Kelsey. My booksta bestie. You did it. You wrote a book and it is a stunner!

[Haley Ara H. · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was such a tear jerkingly beautiful and sad story! I loved every second of it! While I may not have agreed with Alice’s choices I think they absolutely elevated the story to an even more emotional level.

I am such a sucker for a Now and Then timeline and I really loved how this one was set up! Even though the “past” pages were only a few years before I was born, it still had a vintage summer charm to it and gave Nicholas Sparks “The Notebook” vibes!

Overall, I absolutely loved this one! A huge thank you to author Kelsey Whitney for gifting me a copy :)

[Shawna ~ The Wonderer Shawna Monroe · Rating 4 out of 5]

A very sweet and romantic debut novel that’s set in 3 amazing states.

[Faith · Rating 4 out of 5]

You know for having two tropes I’m not the biggest fan of, this book was really good! It was emotional and touching. I can’t wait to see what else Kelsey writes!

[srharmon]

It all works out in the end…a sweet read about love lost and then found again. A book club friend brought this book to my attention, and I’m glad she did! A good summer read with all the feels! And I’m a sucker for a debut novel!

[Katie Golightly · Rating 4 out of 5]

I loved this! It was so angsty and delightful. Made me forget I was in an airport for a 7hr layover. Truly a great summer read! I normally pass on some of the tropes in this but the context made everything wonderful. What a lovely debut!

[Lauren Gail · Rating 3 out of 5]

Thank you, Partner, @bookedwiththeemilys! This book published on May 24th and is available in paperback and on Kindle Unlimited!

This story starts out in present day Charleston South Carolina, when 30-something playboy Mitch finds a Polaroid photo of his parents. There is another surprising figure in the photo - a man Mitch has never seen before. He asks his mother about the photo, and we’re sent back to 1989 and a love story between Alice and Jack. Jack has just moved from West Virginia to South Carolina, and befriends Alice, his next door neighbor who is mostly ignored by her physician husband. As their story unfolds, we learn secrets that Alice has kept for over 30 years - secrets that will change lives.

This book is a great summer read! From the charming southern setting to the instalove, it’s got all the makings for a great beach read. The book has multiple POV and a dual timeline, but much of the story takes place over the summer of 1989 - cue the nostalgia! The romance is all closed door. As much as I didn’t agree with some of the decisions the characters made, they were all characters I was rooting for. Be sure to pack this one in your beach bag 🏖️

[Emily | booksandbedtime · Rating 5 out of 5]

“I now know what love truly is, and I think that’s what matters in the end.”

This book broke my heart and healed it. 🫶

Synopsis:
Mitch has never been able to connect with his dad. But after he passes, Mitch finds an old Polaroid that includes his mom, dad and another man. But who is the other man? And why was his arm draped around his mom?

My Thoughts:
I could not put this book down. It’s an easy binge while pulling on all the heartstrings. It has all my favorite things - summer beach setting, messy, second chance romance, all the love and feels. Jack and Alice’s love story was so raw and real and I just felt all the things.

I adored it so much. Perfect summer read!!

What You’ll Find:
⌚️Dual Timeline
3️⃣ Multiple POVs
💗 Instalove
🚤 Second chance romance
🏡 Neighbors
😉 Winks
☀️ Summer vibes
📸 Polaroids

[Shawn · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was one of my most anticipated reads of the year. Between the cover and the promise for a unique story, I knew my chances of enjoying this debut were high, and I was not disappointed!

Whitney crafted a unique and organic story, weaving together warm summer vibes, vintage charm, relatable characters (my personal favorite feature in romance), and a plot that propels you eagerly through the story. This closed door romance is exactly the kind of love story I was looking for. I don’t need a fist-full of spice, I’m here for character growth that makes you feel like you’ve made friends with the characters by the time you’ve finished reading. Which was absolutely the case with in the end. The setting is just as worthy of mention, painted beautifully for the reader to dive right in.

If you haven’t already, move this one to the top of your TBR pile while you’ve still got some summer left to enjoy this awesome beach read!

[Laura · Rating 5 out of 5]

Such a lovely book! I really enjoyed Jack and Alice’s story and was happy that the story ended the way it did. It’s an easy summer read that was pretty predictable but so enjoyable. You’ll love it too!!

[kelseareads · Rating 4 out of 5]

3.5⭐️

This was such a great, emotional story about love, family and second chances. I went into this book blind and I really enjoyed the experience. I listened to the audiobook and the narrator did an incredible job. I recommend this if you’re looking for a fast-paced book full of romance and family secrets.

[Stephanie | read_renew_repeat · Rating 3 out of 5]

Upgraded to 3.5⭐️

[Lisa Nicole · Rating 3 out of 5]

3.5

[Stephanie · Rating 4 out of 5]

3.5⭐️

This was a really cute story! I loved the story taking place in the past and present and from multiple POV’s! I also appreciated how fast paced and short this was! There wasn’t much fluff or extra.

As cute of a story as it was, I was SO disappointed by Alice’s decision (trying not to spoil) and it just ruined the rest of the story. We did get a happy and satisfying ending but Alice made such a poor choice that I was just so bothered :/ Obviously this was the point of the story and what made it “the story” but ugh I was frustrated hard.

[Brittany · Rating 5 out of 5]

A sweet, coastal love story peppered with West Virginia charm — the perfect summer read.

[Susie · Rating 5 out of 5]

Hard to put down! Wanted it to keep on going!

[Jessica Ward · Rating 4 out of 5]

I loved this. It kind of reminded me of The Notebook. I was a little torn on the relationship but still loved the story and the writing style.

[Marie Girulat · Rating 4 out of 5]

Thank you @bookedwiththeemilys for the #gifted book.

I couldn't put this book down. It's a powerful, emotional story that grips you from the start.

When Alice and her new neighbor Jack meet, you can feel the connection between them. But Alice is trapped in a marriage with Ray, who is not the best partner. When she discovers Ray's infidelity, she kicks him out and turns to Jack for support. Their bond grows into an epic love story filled with heartbreak. Alice's decision to leave Jack with just a note has a lasting impact on both of them.

The story is narrated from the perspectives of Alice, Jack, and Alice's son, Mitch, which adds depth and continuity. Despite being somewhat predictable, the story is sweet and captivating. The satisfying happily ever after at the end warmed my heart.

If you enjoy romance, this is a must-read for a quick, engaging beach escape.

[Jenifer Stretch · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was the first book I've read that you start in present day and then jump back to the past and that's where the majority of the story takes place, only to come back to present day for the big ending. I definitely felt like it was watching a film of someone's memories and I loved that aspect. I love a book that makes me want to comment out loud at the characters while reading and Alice's choices definitely had me commentating throughout the last half of the book. Also, Jack is wonderful.

[Annalee Thomasson · Rating 5 out of 5]

BRB, moving to Charleston. Love the way this book defines love, and true love. Don’t miss this one!

[Jenny · Rating 1 out of 5]

DNF

[Chelsea | chelseadennreads Dennison · Rating 4 out of 5]

Okay wow! This story may be short but it packs a punch and will tug on your heart strings. I’m gonna be honest: I was a little unsure of how I would feel about this story because there was a big plot point that I don’t love and always gives me anxiety (can DM me if you want to know but want to keep it minimum because it’s kinda spoilery) but I ended up really enjoying this story.

Jack was phenomenal. He was hardworking, encouraging, and such a sweetheart. Alice seemed like someone so fun and that you would just want as your best friend. I feel like their love story was told with such a sense of nostalgia about it and it was the epitome of what I think of regarding falling in love in the summer. Alice made a really tough decision, that honestly most people might find frustrating. But I felt like I could really empathize with her. I’ve never been in her shoes but honestly, if I had grown up like Alice had, I probably would have easily believed the lies of others as well as longed for security for those I loved. I think this story is also a reminder that good things can come out of wrong or questionable choices (not an excuse to do something we know as wrong, but a comfort in that if we do go about something the wrong way, it can still be used for good).

This was a really beautifully written story and I’m excited to read more of Kelsey’s works in the future!

This is a closed door romance with no language.

Content Warnings: verbal abuse, others that are potential spoilers (can DM me)

[Mary Watson · Rating 3 out of 5]

3⭐️ Many firsts with this book! This was my first book by Kelsey Whitney, and my first story set in the 80s. I loved the nostalgia of it! Polaroid cameras, no cellphones, letters in the mail, diners. All the things. The storyline reminded me of a Nicholas Sparks film. It had the small town, coastal charm, and a whirlwind romance. The main characters, Jack and Alice, were both so sweet. You just feel for them. You will fall in love with them, but they will also break your heart. There were just so many emotions I felt while reading. Mostly frustration and anger ha.

And it was my first romance where infidelity is involved. Soooo that leads up to a couple of things I had a hard time with. Obviously, first and foremost, the infidelity. I understand why Alice felt the need to find comfort in someone who actually loved her, but she should have divorced her dumb husband and then pursued a relationship. Infidelity is never right, no matter how you slice it. She looked weak and would have made out to be a stronger character if she would have left her husband, even with the prospect of ending up like her mother. An impoverished single mother. She should have given Jack the benefit of the doubt.

Also, the no talking and miscommunication! And seriously, Alice going back to her abusive husband was a knife to the heart. Jack missed out on 30 years of a life with Alice and his son because they didn't talk! I will say, it had a heartwarming ending that wrapped up well. But I still think Jack forgave way too easily and Alice bothered me with her decisions. All in all, I think the romance would have been sooo much better without all the cheating. So, not my fave, but it was okay.

Read if you enjoy:
- Dual POV
- Then and now
- Second chance romance
- Small town
- Cinnamon roll MMC
- Summer vibes
- Closed-door/kisses only/implied intimacy

TW⚠️:
- Infidelity
- Verbally abusive spouse

[Jenna · Rating 4 out of 5]

I now know what love truly is, and I think that’s what matters in the end.

Thanks to @bookedwiththeemilys @authorkelseywhitney or the #gifted copy of this book. All thoughts are my own!

In the End is a nostalgic beach read that will leave your heart aching with just cruel the universe can be, but also happy with how things can turn out in the end.

In this short novel, we open up with Mitch, a man who feels a little lost in his life and unsure of why he never had a solid relationship with his late father. When going through his dad’s things, he finds a polaroid of his parents from the 80s, but there is a mysterious man in the picture as well. When he asks his mother who the man is, his mother tells him the story of the summer of 1989.

We then follow alternating chapters between Jack and Alice, two next door neighbors on coastal South Carolina who are both feeling a little lost themselves as they spend a summer getting closer to each other than either intended.

This book is such a quick read that you’ll get through it in one day or even one sitting. I loved the coastal setting of Mount Pleasant and it was easy to place myself in 1989 with these two to follow their love story. I do wish we had gotten a little bit more of a backstory of Ray and Alice and how they originally met, but maybe that’s just me. Regardless, I enjoyed this read and I plan on checking out other works by this author.

[Crystal Boyer · Rating 5 out of 5]

“In The End” by Kelsey Whitney is a poignant and beautifully crafted novel that resonated with me deeply. The story’s exploration of family secrets and the complexities of love across decades was both compelling and emotionally rich. I was particularly moved by the character of Mitch Beckman, whose quest to understand his father’s past and its impact on their relationship added a layer of introspection that is often missing in contemporary fiction.

The dual timeline narrative was skillfully handled, seamlessly intertwining the past and present in a way that kept me guessing and eager to uncover the truth. Whitney’s portrayal of the South Carolina coast was so vivid that I could almost feel the warm breeze and hear the waves crashing against the shore. The romance between Jack and Alice was tender and bittersweet, a testament to the enduring power of love.

What I loved most about this book was its ability to evoke a sense of nostalgia while also delivering a fresh and engaging story. It’s a novel that celebrates the beauty of second chances and the courage it takes to reveal one’s true self. “In The End” is a memorable read that left a lasting impression on me, and I’m sure it will touch the hearts of all who dive into its pages.

[Meaghan · Rating 4 out of 5]

Thank you to @bookedwiththeemilys and the author for the #gifted copy of this book.

This romance story is equal parts sweet and sad. It's best to go into this one blind, but know there's a time split, where the book starts in current time, and spends a good chunk in 1989. Multiple characters narrate from their POV which I always enjoy. And the initial plot element that propels the story is a discovered photograph; I love this idea and in general the memory-keeping, family history, uncovered stories, genealogy thread woven into the book.

The thing that struck me in reading this book is we forget nowadays with cell phones and location trackers and the vast information collective that is the internet and our world.... But it used to be very reasonable to simply lose track of people. If someone relocated or missed a message, you couldn't Facebook stalk them or search Google.

So the entire premise of this book was believable in 1989... that two people could spend a summer together and then through a few circumstances, not connect with each other for 30 years. If you are looking for an easy to read, heartfelt romance, with themes of family and forgiveness, definitely give In the End a try!

[The Closed Door Book Nook · Rating 5 out of 5]

☕️ In the End is the debut novel of @authorkelseywhitney and follows the story of Mitch (present day) who is struggling in his current relationship and also still caught up on the fact that he never had a good relationship with his dad. When he finds a Polaroid of his mom Alice with his Dad and another man he doesn’t recognize, the narrative changes to a past POV of Jack and Alice. Will the story that unfolds across three decades of time give Mitch the understanding he needs to right his relationships (past, present, and future)?

☕️ In the End is a such a great second-chance romance that truly dives into some deep content. It gave me “The Notebook” vibes and honestly I wish it would have been a little longer to go more into Alice’s story. It is a quick read!! I think it’s a beautiful picture of a mother’s love/sacrifice and just how true love really does know no end.

☕️Content warnings: Emotional/verbal abuse by spouse, infidelity, death of a parent

A huge THANK YOU to @bookedwiththeemilys for letting me be a part of this book tour 🎉 Grab your copy of In The End on Amazon now!!

#intheend #bookedwiththeemilys #bookreview #bookstagram #bookworm #closeddoorromance #cleanreads

[SH · Rating 4 out of 5]

Mitch Beckman never felt that his father and he had anything in common. When going through his father’s possessions after his death, Mitch comes across a photo that might explain it all. Realizing his mother is the only person who might have some answers, he confronts her with the photo, only to discover a secret that has been kept for thirty years.
In 1989, after a broken engagement, Jack Wells leaves his West Virginia home in search of a better life on the South Carolina coast. When he meets the couple next door, he knows that all is not well between Alice Beckman and her husband. Thirty years later, Alice decides it is finally time tell her son her secrets, knowing that she may not be forgiven by either Mitch or Jack.
An enjoyable read, that held my attention. I found that all the characters were quite believable but thought that the ending was wrapped up a bit too conveniently, given the thirty years that had passed for both Alice and Jack.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book from NetGalley. All thoughts and opinions are my own.