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Lake Spark Inn #3
Should Have Been
A second chance romance that the Lake Spark world never saw coming...Full blurb coming soon. Should Have Been is the third standalone book in the Lake Spark Inn series, part of the Lake Spark world. For lovers of small-town romance with a hint of sports.
258 pages, Paperback
Published August 7, 2024
About the author
Evey Lyon
65 books454 followersEvey writes heartwarming romances with steamy moments, often in small-town settings with an element of sports. An American from the Midwest, she now lives in a tiny country in Europe where it rains a lot. That is probably why she occupies her days typing away on her laptop with music on repeat and slow-roast coffee nearby. Oh, and she vows to never break up with cake.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 70 reviews
August 23, 2024
3 stars
An emotional second-chance-romance set in the most complicated of circumstances, this heartfelt love story is a really sweet read. This is the third and final standalone in the Lake Spark Inn series (part of the wider Lake Spark world), and it’s the story of ex hockey player Nash, and the love of his life, his brother’s widow, Summer.
Nash, Zac and Summer grew up together, and while Summer and Zac were best friends, it was Nash that she fell in love with. Nash loved her right back, and the two of them had a secret relationship that was everything. Now, it’s years later, Zac has died, leaving behind his wife, Summer, and their young baby. The terms of Zac’s will state that he wants Nash to move in with Summer and little Bo for a defined period, which puts the two of them in a wildly awkward situation.
It's an emotional set-up, for sure, and I was feeling the tension from the very beginning. Of course, Nash and Summer are both still grieving, but there’s questions and unresolved hurt between them, and I loved watching them bicker and snark at each other after years of limited contact, getting it all out and finally starting to unravel everything that went down. And as they open up to each other and reveal their secrets, everything starts to change.
It’s complex, and I was nervous how this one was going to be navigated, but it’s handled really well. I could feel the connection between Nash and Summer, I could feel their grief over Zac’s death, and I understood where they were at, and enjoyed watching them find their way back to each other.
If you’re on the fence about this book because of the relationship dynamics, here’s what you need to know… .
But while they’re figuring it all out, there’s a lot of guilt and confusion, and they also have to deal with the perception of others who don’t understand the situation, and that’s where a lot of the drama comes.
As much as I love a second-chance-romance, I didn’t feel this one as much as I was hoping. I was a bit frustrated at events from their past, some of which was a bit unclear, and I wish they had fought for each other when they were younger. But that’s the decision they made, and the whole point of this story is we get to witness them deal with those consequences.
I did enjoy the book though. I liked the connection between Nash and Summer, I enjoyed their playfulness and the depth of their love for each other, and was glad to see them get their happy ending.
3 stars.
An Advanced Review Copy was generously provided by the author for an honest review.
An emotional second-chance-romance set in the most complicated of circumstances, this heartfelt love story is a really sweet read. This is the third and final standalone in the Lake Spark Inn series (part of the wider Lake Spark world), and it’s the story of ex hockey player Nash, and the love of his life, his brother’s widow, Summer.
Nash, Zac and Summer grew up together, and while Summer and Zac were best friends, it was Nash that she fell in love with. Nash loved her right back, and the two of them had a secret relationship that was everything. Now, it’s years later, Zac has died, leaving behind his wife, Summer, and their young baby. The terms of Zac’s will state that he wants Nash to move in with Summer and little Bo for a defined period, which puts the two of them in a wildly awkward situation.
It's an emotional set-up, for sure, and I was feeling the tension from the very beginning. Of course, Nash and Summer are both still grieving, but there’s questions and unresolved hurt between them, and I loved watching them bicker and snark at each other after years of limited contact, getting it all out and finally starting to unravel everything that went down. And as they open up to each other and reveal their secrets, everything starts to change.
“I’m not letting you go.”
It’s complex, and I was nervous how this one was going to be navigated, but it’s handled really well. I could feel the connection between Nash and Summer, I could feel their grief over Zac’s death, and I understood where they were at, and enjoyed watching them find their way back to each other.
It’s a constant battle of following what everyone expects but wanting to scream that there is another way that’s helping me. Gluing tiny pieces together.
If you’re on the fence about this book because of the relationship dynamics, here’s what you need to know… .
But while they’re figuring it all out, there’s a lot of guilt and confusion, and they also have to deal with the perception of others who don’t understand the situation, and that’s where a lot of the drama comes.
“Our little world, remember that, okay? For now, that’s what helps, and in time it might make sense.”
As much as I love a second-chance-romance, I didn’t feel this one as much as I was hoping. I was a bit frustrated at events from their past, some of which was a bit unclear, and I wish they had fought for each other when they were younger. But that’s the decision they made, and the whole point of this story is we get to witness them deal with those consequences.
True love is when you let someone find their path to you on their own terms.
I did enjoy the book though. I liked the connection between Nash and Summer, I enjoyed their playfulness and the depth of their love for each other, and was glad to see them get their happy ending.
3 stars.
An Advanced Review Copy was generously provided by the author for an honest review.
August 30, 2024
We are back in Lake Spark and get ready for an emotional one. Second chances for Nash and Summer had me all over the place, and one of the bumpier roads to an HEA in a while. But SO worth it.
There are secrets, heartbreak, and sacrifices. Summer is mourning the loss of her husband and father to her son, when his brother shows up. There is a history there, and a stipulation in his brother’s will. Does forced proximity cause lines to be crossed?
This is probably the most complex and emotional book I have read by this author. I am thrilled she challenges herself with each book she writes.
Thank you to the Author for the advanced copy; this is my voluntary review
There are secrets, heartbreak, and sacrifices. Summer is mourning the loss of her husband and father to her son, when his brother shows up. There is a history there, and a stipulation in his brother’s will. Does forced proximity cause lines to be crossed?
This is probably the most complex and emotional book I have read by this author. I am thrilled she challenges herself with each book she writes.
Thank you to the Author for the advanced copy; this is my voluntary review
August 30, 2024
This one was emotional and gave you all the feels! Summer and Nash’s past is catching up to them and it just so happens to be after her husband has passed. This one definitely had me in tears but worth it.
September 3, 2024
💚 Brother’s Widow
💚 Single Mom
💚 Second Chance
💚 Enemies to Lovers
💚 Forced Proximity
💚 Retired Hockey Player
💚 He Falls First
💚 Love after loss
💚 Steamy
💚 Small town
💚 Last book in the Lake Spark World, can be read as a Standalone
Spice: 🌶🌶🌶
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐
“I’ve made sure that you have everything that you’ll need, I promise.”
Summer - a widower who lost her husband and her best friend, and is left to raise her infant son alone and does not want to open herself up to get hurt again.
Nash - retired hockey player who lost his brother, and is determined to get his second chance AND his girl back this time
Zac - Summer’s husband, best friend, Bo’s dad, and Nash’s brother. I also like pulling strings and making moves from beyond. We see you Zac…….and we are here for it.
Summer and the Nix brothers grew up together and have always had a complicated relationship. Zac loves Summer, Summer loves Nash, Nash loves Summer and nobody wants to hurt Zac. They were best friends and would do anything for one another. They had a great childhood with lots of memories and stories, that always involved the 3 of them. The nostalgic part of the book I liked, was being able to get a sneak peek back at their friendship early on. There was also heartbreak for Summer and Nash, as Nash gave up his girl to his brother to not hurt him. He hides behind the excuse of being drafted into the NHL. Ultimately Zac and Summer marry and have a son, Bo. But neither Summer nor Nash forgot each other or what they had.
After Zac passes away Summer is left with their son, a house to live in, and the biggest surprise of all: NASH. Zac asks Nash via his will to move in with Summer and Bo for 6 weeks to look after them. This is when, for me, the story took off.
You can feel the chemistry and tension between Nash and Summer jumping off the page, from the very beginning. These two were it from the very first moment they were reconnected. Everyone saw it except those two. Nash took to Bo right away and it was so cute to see, that Bo had his uncle and that father figure in Nash. After a lot of pushback from Summer, Nash and her fell into a routine, with Bo and themselves. They start living as a family, and the feelings start bubbling to the surface. I could see the hesitation in Summer, I could see the turmoil she was going through, what everyone would say and think. Is she ready to start over? Can her heart handle it? Is Nash here for good? Is he doing it because he feels guilty because Zac died, or is it me he really wants? I also felt Nash’s push and pull. He loves Summer so much and wants her to know it's her he wants and it's for her that he’s here, but he wants her to come to those conclusions on her own. The patience this man has for this woman is for the books. I was glad to see he didn’t rush her into anything, it was good to see that he loved her enough to let her see what she wanted was him.
This was a good story about love and loss. Even if the love that Summer had for Zac was not the same love she had for Nash, she still loved him and lost him. It was about second chances allowing your heart to heal from past hurts and allowing your heart to open itself again to that person. And also about forgiveness. Forgiving yourself for not being there enough, or for not being enough. Always remember that you are allowed to give yourself grace for what you can handle. It was good to see that Nash and Summer gave themselves the grace they deserved.
“‘For someone who loves treasure, I ensured she got her crown jewel. I was her first husband, but you’ll be her last.’”
💚 Single Mom
💚 Second Chance
💚 Enemies to Lovers
💚 Forced Proximity
💚 Retired Hockey Player
💚 He Falls First
💚 Love after loss
💚 Steamy
💚 Small town
💚 Last book in the Lake Spark World, can be read as a Standalone
Spice: 🌶🌶🌶
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐
“I’ve made sure that you have everything that you’ll need, I promise.”
Summer - a widower who lost her husband and her best friend, and is left to raise her infant son alone and does not want to open herself up to get hurt again.
Nash - retired hockey player who lost his brother, and is determined to get his second chance AND his girl back this time
Zac - Summer’s husband, best friend, Bo’s dad, and Nash’s brother. I also like pulling strings and making moves from beyond. We see you Zac…….and we are here for it.
Summer and the Nix brothers grew up together and have always had a complicated relationship. Zac loves Summer, Summer loves Nash, Nash loves Summer and nobody wants to hurt Zac. They were best friends and would do anything for one another. They had a great childhood with lots of memories and stories, that always involved the 3 of them. The nostalgic part of the book I liked, was being able to get a sneak peek back at their friendship early on. There was also heartbreak for Summer and Nash, as Nash gave up his girl to his brother to not hurt him. He hides behind the excuse of being drafted into the NHL. Ultimately Zac and Summer marry and have a son, Bo. But neither Summer nor Nash forgot each other or what they had.
After Zac passes away Summer is left with their son, a house to live in, and the biggest surprise of all: NASH. Zac asks Nash via his will to move in with Summer and Bo for 6 weeks to look after them. This is when, for me, the story took off.
You can feel the chemistry and tension between Nash and Summer jumping off the page, from the very beginning. These two were it from the very first moment they were reconnected. Everyone saw it except those two. Nash took to Bo right away and it was so cute to see, that Bo had his uncle and that father figure in Nash. After a lot of pushback from Summer, Nash and her fell into a routine, with Bo and themselves. They start living as a family, and the feelings start bubbling to the surface. I could see the hesitation in Summer, I could see the turmoil she was going through, what everyone would say and think. Is she ready to start over? Can her heart handle it? Is Nash here for good? Is he doing it because he feels guilty because Zac died, or is it me he really wants? I also felt Nash’s push and pull. He loves Summer so much and wants her to know it's her he wants and it's for her that he’s here, but he wants her to come to those conclusions on her own. The patience this man has for this woman is for the books. I was glad to see he didn’t rush her into anything, it was good to see that he loved her enough to let her see what she wanted was him.
This was a good story about love and loss. Even if the love that Summer had for Zac was not the same love she had for Nash, she still loved him and lost him. It was about second chances allowing your heart to heal from past hurts and allowing your heart to open itself again to that person. And also about forgiveness. Forgiving yourself for not being there enough, or for not being enough. Always remember that you are allowed to give yourself grace for what you can handle. It was good to see that Nash and Summer gave themselves the grace they deserved.
“‘For someone who loves treasure, I ensured she got her crown jewel. I was her first husband, but you’ll be her last.’”
August 16, 2024
Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️💫
Spice: 🌶️🌶️.5
Tropes:
😍 Second chance
🏡 Single Mom
🩷 Brothers widow
👫 Forced proximity
💕 Small town
🏒 Retired hockey player
🥰 Enemies to lovers
Should Have Been takes you on a roller coaster ride between Summer and Nash. It’s definitely an emotional page turner that will 100% aim straight for your heart. It’ll give you all the feels. A little back story, Summer, Nash and Nash’s brother, Zac were all close friends growing up. Summer and Zac were best friends, all three of them hung out all the time. Summer and Zac get married. Now, Summer is newly widowed and with a baby boy, Bo to care for all by herself. Soon after she finds out that her late husband had a very unusual request, that Nash come and stay with Summer and Bo to help them for 6 weeks. Soon after we find out Summer and Nash had a secret relationship in the past. Nothing could go wrong or get complicated now!!
Summer and Nash are both suffering from the loss of someone whom they both love very much. They are both struggling to deal with the loss and trying to sort through past feelings, new feelings, and trying to move on. The more time they spent together the more in step they became, they learned to live with each other, started reminiscing about their past. I love that we got a glimpse into the past of Summer and Nash, and even a little of Zac. Evey did an amazing job stringing that in so we weren’t confused or left with questions. Summer and Nash soon realize things aren’t as they seemed, secrets are brought to light. Summer feels she hasn’t grieved enough, not enough time has passed, she’s rushing into things, etc. Evey does an amazing job highlighting tough topics when it comes to loss, like there is no right or wrong way to grieve and no specific time limit. Nash was amazing, from the moment he walked into Lake Spark he was 100% committed to helping Summer and Bo. He stepped up for them and was the sweetest Uncle to Bo.
Summer and Nash were perfect together; they just needed to not worry about what everyone else thinks. Nash and Summer’s banter was awesome. Their chemistry was on fire. The way they turned into a well oiled machine taking care of the day to day chores, taking care of Bo, etc. Summer and Nash helped each other grieve the loss of Zac and also helped each other realize that their feelings are real and they deserved a love this strong.
“For someone who loves treasure, I ensured she got her crown jewel. I was her first husband, but you’ll be her last.”
.
Spice: 🌶️🌶️.5
Tropes:
😍 Second chance
🏡 Single Mom
🩷 Brothers widow
👫 Forced proximity
💕 Small town
🏒 Retired hockey player
🥰 Enemies to lovers
Should Have Been takes you on a roller coaster ride between Summer and Nash. It’s definitely an emotional page turner that will 100% aim straight for your heart. It’ll give you all the feels. A little back story, Summer, Nash and Nash’s brother, Zac were all close friends growing up. Summer and Zac were best friends, all three of them hung out all the time. Summer and Zac get married. Now, Summer is newly widowed and with a baby boy, Bo to care for all by herself. Soon after she finds out that her late husband had a very unusual request, that Nash come and stay with Summer and Bo to help them for 6 weeks. Soon after we find out Summer and Nash had a secret relationship in the past. Nothing could go wrong or get complicated now!!
Summer and Nash are both suffering from the loss of someone whom they both love very much. They are both struggling to deal with the loss and trying to sort through past feelings, new feelings, and trying to move on. The more time they spent together the more in step they became, they learned to live with each other, started reminiscing about their past. I love that we got a glimpse into the past of Summer and Nash, and even a little of Zac. Evey did an amazing job stringing that in so we weren’t confused or left with questions. Summer and Nash soon realize things aren’t as they seemed, secrets are brought to light. Summer feels she hasn’t grieved enough, not enough time has passed, she’s rushing into things, etc. Evey does an amazing job highlighting tough topics when it comes to loss, like there is no right or wrong way to grieve and no specific time limit. Nash was amazing, from the moment he walked into Lake Spark he was 100% committed to helping Summer and Bo. He stepped up for them and was the sweetest Uncle to Bo.
Summer and Nash were perfect together; they just needed to not worry about what everyone else thinks. Nash and Summer’s banter was awesome. Their chemistry was on fire. The way they turned into a well oiled machine taking care of the day to day chores, taking care of Bo, etc. Summer and Nash helped each other grieve the loss of Zac and also helped each other realize that their feelings are real and they deserved a love this strong.
“For someone who loves treasure, I ensured she got her crown jewel. I was her first husband, but you’ll be her last.”
.
August 29, 2024
Talk about a story that gives you all the feels and has your emotions all over the place. Ms. Lyon pulls on your heartstrings with this beautifully written, gripping and thought-provoking romance where two people are given a second chance at love. The road to their happiness was not smooth, there was heartbreak, secrets and doubt. Should Have Been is the third book in the Lake Spark Inn series and for me, it was the most emotional of the three. Can you imagine marrying your best friend, having a baby with them and then they die before you have lived a life, or that they got to see their son? Talk about heartbreak and having your life shattered. Well, that is exactly what happened to Summer when she married Zac, her best friend but not the man who she was in love with, Nash his brother.
As I read her story, my heart was breaking for her however the more I read the more I understood why she did what she did but that did not make losing her husband easier. Now she is thrown into a whirlwind of confusion when his will states that his brother, Nash, has to live with Summer and her baby boy Bo for six weeks. They have a history full of fire but something happened to cause that fire to go out and hearts to break. When Zac asked her to marry him there were extenuating circumstances for the proposal. Nash and Summer have a hate to love relationship since their fire grew cold and having to live with one another sees them full of anger but for different reasons. Will the forced proximity see the feelings that they have suppressed come back to the surface? When secrets are revealed, will they forgive one another? Can they get past the fact that a few months ago, Summer lost her husband and Nash lost his brother, but their hearts are playing with their minds? How will everyone see the spark that is trying to ignite between them?
Ms. Lyon, you have given your readers a beautiful love story of second chances, sacrifices, and a love that survived the test of time.
As I read her story, my heart was breaking for her however the more I read the more I understood why she did what she did but that did not make losing her husband easier. Now she is thrown into a whirlwind of confusion when his will states that his brother, Nash, has to live with Summer and her baby boy Bo for six weeks. They have a history full of fire but something happened to cause that fire to go out and hearts to break. When Zac asked her to marry him there were extenuating circumstances for the proposal. Nash and Summer have a hate to love relationship since their fire grew cold and having to live with one another sees them full of anger but for different reasons. Will the forced proximity see the feelings that they have suppressed come back to the surface? When secrets are revealed, will they forgive one another? Can they get past the fact that a few months ago, Summer lost her husband and Nash lost his brother, but their hearts are playing with their minds? How will everyone see the spark that is trying to ignite between them?
Ms. Lyon, you have given your readers a beautiful love story of second chances, sacrifices, and a love that survived the test of time.
August 23, 2024
💙🌿 𝚂𝚑𝚘𝚞𝚕𝚍 𝙷𝚊𝚟𝚎 𝙱𝚎𝚎𝚗 🌿💙
𝚋𝚢 @eveylyonbooks
🄰🅁🄲 🅁🄴🅅🄸🄴🅆
4/5 ⭐️
↓↓
This emotional second chance will have you all in your feels. Summer and Nash find themselves in a delicate complicated situation. They have to figure out the best way to navigate their second chance of love through grief and so much more while having the least amount of fall out for everyone involved.
Summer, Nash and his brother Zac, had pretty much been inseparable ever since Summer wiggled her way into Zac's life when they were teens once she found out he had cancer and wanted to be there for him during that time. During one summer Summer and Nash begin seeing each other in secret. Zac confessed his feelings to Nash about Summer and Nash decided to back off and let Zac have the girl. Flash forward years later and Zac has passed from the cancer, leaving behind Summer and their baby Bo.
This was such an emotional read for sure. Finding out the truth about Summer and Zac's relationship was an eye opener for Nash and decided he was going to finally get his girl. Summer was so conflicted with her feelings about Nash while also just becoming a widower and losing her best friend, his brother. There was a lot of back and forth for her and thoughts on how people would see her for moving on so quickly with the brother of her late husband.
This was such a tricky situation but Evey did a wonderful job in the way that it was handled. Summer and Nash had such a beautiful connection and they really helped each other grieve the loss of Zac. Their banter was also top notch. Great ending to the series.
𝘍𝘰𝘳 𝘴𝘰𝘮𝘦𝘰𝘯𝘦 𝘸𝘩𝘰 𝘭𝘰𝘷𝘦𝘴 𝘵𝘳𝘦𝘢𝘴𝘶𝘳𝘦, 𝘐 𝘦𝘯𝘴𝘶𝘳𝘦𝘥 𝘴𝘩𝘦 𝘨𝘰𝘵 𝘩𝘦𝘳 𝘤𝘳𝘰𝘸𝘯 𝘫𝘦𝘸𝘦𝘭. 𝘐 𝘸𝘢𝘴 𝘩𝘦𝘳 𝘧𝘪𝘳𝘴𝘵 𝘩𝘶𝘴𝘣𝘢𝘯𝘥, 𝘣𝘶𝘵 𝘺𝘰𝘶’𝘭𝘭 𝘣𝘦 𝘩𝘦𝘳 𝘭𝘢𝘴𝘵. 😭
𝕋𝕣𝕠𝕡𝕖𝕤 / 𝕎𝕙𝕒𝕥 𝕥𝕠 𝔼𝕩𝕡𝕖𝕔𝕥
💙 Second Chance
🌿 Brother's Widow
💙 Single Mom
🌿 Small Town
💙 Retired hockey player
🌿 Forced Proximity
💙 Enemies to Lovers
#ShouldHaveBeen #EveyLyon #LakeSparkInnSeries #wordsmithpublicity #romance #secondchanceromance #SmallTownRomance
𝚋𝚢 @eveylyonbooks
🄰🅁🄲 🅁🄴🅅🄸🄴🅆
4/5 ⭐️
↓↓
This emotional second chance will have you all in your feels. Summer and Nash find themselves in a delicate complicated situation. They have to figure out the best way to navigate their second chance of love through grief and so much more while having the least amount of fall out for everyone involved.
Summer, Nash and his brother Zac, had pretty much been inseparable ever since Summer wiggled her way into Zac's life when they were teens once she found out he had cancer and wanted to be there for him during that time. During one summer Summer and Nash begin seeing each other in secret. Zac confessed his feelings to Nash about Summer and Nash decided to back off and let Zac have the girl. Flash forward years later and Zac has passed from the cancer, leaving behind Summer and their baby Bo.
This was such an emotional read for sure. Finding out the truth about Summer and Zac's relationship was an eye opener for Nash and decided he was going to finally get his girl. Summer was so conflicted with her feelings about Nash while also just becoming a widower and losing her best friend, his brother. There was a lot of back and forth for her and thoughts on how people would see her for moving on so quickly with the brother of her late husband.
This was such a tricky situation but Evey did a wonderful job in the way that it was handled. Summer and Nash had such a beautiful connection and they really helped each other grieve the loss of Zac. Their banter was also top notch. Great ending to the series.
𝘍𝘰𝘳 𝘴𝘰𝘮𝘦𝘰𝘯𝘦 𝘸𝘩𝘰 𝘭𝘰𝘷𝘦𝘴 𝘵𝘳𝘦𝘢𝘴𝘶𝘳𝘦, 𝘐 𝘦𝘯𝘴𝘶𝘳𝘦𝘥 𝘴𝘩𝘦 𝘨𝘰𝘵 𝘩𝘦𝘳 𝘤𝘳𝘰𝘸𝘯 𝘫𝘦𝘸𝘦𝘭. 𝘐 𝘸𝘢𝘴 𝘩𝘦𝘳 𝘧𝘪𝘳𝘴𝘵 𝘩𝘶𝘴𝘣𝘢𝘯𝘥, 𝘣𝘶𝘵 𝘺𝘰𝘶’𝘭𝘭 𝘣𝘦 𝘩𝘦𝘳 𝘭𝘢𝘴𝘵. 😭
𝕋𝕣𝕠𝕡𝕖𝕤 / 𝕎𝕙𝕒𝕥 𝕥𝕠 𝔼𝕩𝕡𝕖𝕔𝕥
💙 Second Chance
🌿 Brother's Widow
💙 Single Mom
🌿 Small Town
💙 Retired hockey player
🌿 Forced Proximity
💙 Enemies to Lovers
#ShouldHaveBeen #EveyLyon #LakeSparkInnSeries #wordsmithpublicity #romance #secondchanceromance #SmallTownRomance
August 12, 2024
I love a good second chance romance and when I read the blurb for Should Have Been, I needed to read it!
I haven't ever read anything by this author before and I always love discovering new authors. This book started with a sombre tone and right away your heart goes out to Summer. She's newly widowed and has a young baby.
She soon finds out that her late husband had an unusual request and is now living with her brother-in-law, albeit temporarily. It isn't long that we find out that both Nash and Summer have had a past, one that no one really knew about.
They are both suffering a loss, while also trying to work through past feelings and find a way to move forward.
Watching these two navigate the first few weeks made me chuckle and feel awkward for them at the same time. Summer was quite angry with the situation and did lash out a few times. I can't imagine it would be easy. They soon find a rhythm, and start reminiscing about the past. We do get a glimpse of what transpired all those years ago and it helped put things into context.
Both Summer and Nash try to navigate their feelings and they soon realise that all is not as it seemed on the surface. Secrets come to light and understanding dawns.
Summer is confused by what's acceptable and what isn't and I think the author does a good job of highlighting that there is no right or wrong way or no specific time limit on grief. Everyone is different and grief looks different for everyone.
I liked the fact that Nash did step up and really made an effort to be there for Summer and Bo. The dynamics between the two were good. There were a few moments throughout the story I got a bit lost with wording, certain sentences not feeling relevant or words that weren't needed. Overall though, I really enjoyed this story, it was a nice change to the last few I've read.
I haven't ever read anything by this author before and I always love discovering new authors. This book started with a sombre tone and right away your heart goes out to Summer. She's newly widowed and has a young baby.
She soon finds out that her late husband had an unusual request and is now living with her brother-in-law, albeit temporarily. It isn't long that we find out that both Nash and Summer have had a past, one that no one really knew about.
They are both suffering a loss, while also trying to work through past feelings and find a way to move forward.
Watching these two navigate the first few weeks made me chuckle and feel awkward for them at the same time. Summer was quite angry with the situation and did lash out a few times. I can't imagine it would be easy. They soon find a rhythm, and start reminiscing about the past. We do get a glimpse of what transpired all those years ago and it helped put things into context.
Both Summer and Nash try to navigate their feelings and they soon realise that all is not as it seemed on the surface. Secrets come to light and understanding dawns.
Summer is confused by what's acceptable and what isn't and I think the author does a good job of highlighting that there is no right or wrong way or no specific time limit on grief. Everyone is different and grief looks different for everyone.
I liked the fact that Nash did step up and really made an effort to be there for Summer and Bo. The dynamics between the two were good. There were a few moments throughout the story I got a bit lost with wording, certain sentences not feeling relevant or words that weren't needed. Overall though, I really enjoyed this story, it was a nice change to the last few I've read.
August 12, 2024
They have a past, one she would like to forget, but it becomes nearly impossible to do when he shows up on her doorstep and tells her he is there is fulfill his brother's dying wish. She just lost the father to her child and love is about the last thing on her mind, but having Nash so close makes her start to question things.
Should Have Been is an emotional page-turner that will hit you straight in the heart. Nash and Summer knew way back then that they had something special between them, but it never really worked out. Now they find themselves living under the same roof and questioning every move the other makes. Both grieving their loss, both confused about what is happening between them, and struggling to make sense of it all. It's an impossible situation to come out of unscathed, a situation that neither was prepared for, but both want to hold on to in any way that they can.
This one will really do a number on your heart, these characters once cared deeply for one another, but life took them in different directions and now they find themselves reunited and dealing with the rush of all those all feelings that they thought were gone. But soon learn they were only lost temporarily. A part of them wants to embrace all their feeling, but loyalties and interfering family members make it hard to do so, and cause they to push one another away. My heart broke for both of them so many times, it was such a touching and emotionally rich story. Highly recommend you take a chance on this one, it comes brimming with all the feels to torture you heart in all the best of ways!
I requested an advanced copy of this title from the publisher and I am voluntarily leaving my honest and unbiased opinion.
Should Have Been is an emotional page-turner that will hit you straight in the heart. Nash and Summer knew way back then that they had something special between them, but it never really worked out. Now they find themselves living under the same roof and questioning every move the other makes. Both grieving their loss, both confused about what is happening between them, and struggling to make sense of it all. It's an impossible situation to come out of unscathed, a situation that neither was prepared for, but both want to hold on to in any way that they can.
This one will really do a number on your heart, these characters once cared deeply for one another, but life took them in different directions and now they find themselves reunited and dealing with the rush of all those all feelings that they thought were gone. But soon learn they were only lost temporarily. A part of them wants to embrace all their feeling, but loyalties and interfering family members make it hard to do so, and cause they to push one another away. My heart broke for both of them so many times, it was such a touching and emotionally rich story. Highly recommend you take a chance on this one, it comes brimming with all the feels to torture you heart in all the best of ways!
I requested an advanced copy of this title from the publisher and I am voluntarily leaving my honest and unbiased opinion.
September 11, 2024
SHOULD HAVE BEEN By Evey Lyon
Nash didn't plan on living with his brother's widow. Or that he may finally get his chance to win me back.
I ended up with the wrong brother. Now, he has passed away, leaving me a widow with a baby. But then his brother Nash walks back into our small town and my life. My disdain for the former hockey player is apparent, yet still, he moves in to care for my son and me, claiming it was his estranged brother's dying wish. But having Nash close stirs memories of when we may have had a chance. In truth, he always lingered in my thoughts. And it takes one kiss to cause turmoil.
Because nothing appears as it seems.
The relationship that develops is inevitable; we have a past, after all. But the dilemmas we reveal may tear us apart. Even with guilt for moving on, a fire between us feels near eternal. And the trail we create in the fallout of our romance makes me realize that Nash and I? We're something long ago that always should have been…
😊What i liked -
✔ Forced Proximity/Single Parent/Small Town/Second Chance/He Falls First.
✔ I loved the then and now between Nash & Summer.
✔ Loved the friendship between Zac & Summer. Though i really tried to hate Zac but just could not because of the way he plays Cupid.
✔ This story just tugged at all the feeling strings inside. I was laughing as well as crying.
✔ Loved the tension and the chemistry between the two.
✔ A perfect story of Love and Loss.
🤔What could have been better-
✔ I hate hating parents even if was just for a second.
📚Who Should read :
👶Beginners
💝Romance Lover
💕Forced Proximity Romance
🏡Small Town Romance
📈My Rating : 4/5
Thank you, Evey Lyon & Wordsmith Publicity, for a copy.
Nash didn't plan on living with his brother's widow. Or that he may finally get his chance to win me back.
I ended up with the wrong brother. Now, he has passed away, leaving me a widow with a baby. But then his brother Nash walks back into our small town and my life. My disdain for the former hockey player is apparent, yet still, he moves in to care for my son and me, claiming it was his estranged brother's dying wish. But having Nash close stirs memories of when we may have had a chance. In truth, he always lingered in my thoughts. And it takes one kiss to cause turmoil.
Because nothing appears as it seems.
The relationship that develops is inevitable; we have a past, after all. But the dilemmas we reveal may tear us apart. Even with guilt for moving on, a fire between us feels near eternal. And the trail we create in the fallout of our romance makes me realize that Nash and I? We're something long ago that always should have been…
😊What i liked -
✔ Forced Proximity/Single Parent/Small Town/Second Chance/He Falls First.
✔ I loved the then and now between Nash & Summer.
✔ Loved the friendship between Zac & Summer. Though i really tried to hate Zac but just could not because of the way he plays Cupid.
✔ This story just tugged at all the feeling strings inside. I was laughing as well as crying.
✔ Loved the tension and the chemistry between the two.
✔ A perfect story of Love and Loss.
🤔What could have been better-
✔ I hate hating parents even if was just for a second.
📚Who Should read :
👶Beginners
💝Romance Lover
💕Forced Proximity Romance
🏡Small Town Romance
📈My Rating : 4/5
Thank you, Evey Lyon & Wordsmith Publicity, for a copy.
August 31, 2024
I recently finished Should Have Been, and I have to say, it was a delightful read that truly captured my heart. This installment in the Lake Spark Inn series beautifully intertwines the themes of love and second chances, following the journey of Nash and Summer as they navigate their complicated relationship.
Lyon's writing style is incredibly engaging, pulling me right into the lives of the characters. I felt a strong connection to Nash and Summer, whose chemistry was palpable throughout the story. Their struggles felt relatable, and I found myself rooting for them every step of the way. The pacing was just right, balancing moments of tension with tender scenes that kept me invested in their journey.
What I appreciated most was the emotional depth of the story. Lyon delves into the complexities of love, regret, and redemption, making the characters’ experiences resonate on a personal level. I loved how the author explored their growth and the challenges they faced, which added a layer of authenticity to the romance.
That said, I did find some plot elements a bit predictable. While the story followed a familiar romance formula, the execution and character dynamics were strong enough to keep me engaged. I was willing to overlook the predictability because the emotional payoff was so rewarding.
Overall, Should Have Been is a beautifully crafted romance that captures the essence of love and second chances. I would give it a solid four stars for its engaging writing, relatable characters, and heartfelt themes. If you enjoy romances that blend emotional depth with charm, this book is definitely worth picking up!
Lyon's writing style is incredibly engaging, pulling me right into the lives of the characters. I felt a strong connection to Nash and Summer, whose chemistry was palpable throughout the story. Their struggles felt relatable, and I found myself rooting for them every step of the way. The pacing was just right, balancing moments of tension with tender scenes that kept me invested in their journey.
What I appreciated most was the emotional depth of the story. Lyon delves into the complexities of love, regret, and redemption, making the characters’ experiences resonate on a personal level. I loved how the author explored their growth and the challenges they faced, which added a layer of authenticity to the romance.
That said, I did find some plot elements a bit predictable. While the story followed a familiar romance formula, the execution and character dynamics were strong enough to keep me engaged. I was willing to overlook the predictability because the emotional payoff was so rewarding.
Overall, Should Have Been is a beautifully crafted romance that captures the essence of love and second chances. I would give it a solid four stars for its engaging writing, relatable characters, and heartfelt themes. If you enjoy romances that blend emotional depth with charm, this book is definitely worth picking up!
September 2, 2024
Should Have Been wraps up the Lake Spark Inn series with Nash and Summer's story. It's complicated and messy, but at the end, it is a heartfelt second-chance romance.
As teenagers, Summer, and brothers Zac and Nash, were best friends. Zac was always ill, having battled cancer for most of his life. And while Summer loved Zac as a best friend, she was *in love* with Nash, and he her. But their relationship took a turn when Nash broke Summer's heart, eventually leading her to marry Zac and give birth to their son, Bo. Now it's years later, and Zac's final wish was that Nash come back to Lake Spark and live with Summer and Bo for six weeks....
There are so many emotions in this story. Heartbreak, grief, resentment, guilt, and so much love. It takes a while for Summer and Nash to get to a place where they can even be in the same room without sniping at one another -- he can't get past the fact that she married his brother, and she is still so hurt by their breakup years ago. Things aren't always as they seem, however, and once they hammer out their issues of the past, Summer and Nash fall into an easy relationship...
But it's a secret one. How will the town react to her moving on so quickly? How will Nash's parents respond? There is a lot to be navigated before they can get to their HEA, but in the end, it always Should Have Been Summer and Nash.
I received an advanced copy and voluntarily left a review.
As teenagers, Summer, and brothers Zac and Nash, were best friends. Zac was always ill, having battled cancer for most of his life. And while Summer loved Zac as a best friend, she was *in love* with Nash, and he her. But their relationship took a turn when Nash broke Summer's heart, eventually leading her to marry Zac and give birth to their son, Bo. Now it's years later, and Zac's final wish was that Nash come back to Lake Spark and live with Summer and Bo for six weeks....
There are so many emotions in this story. Heartbreak, grief, resentment, guilt, and so much love. It takes a while for Summer and Nash to get to a place where they can even be in the same room without sniping at one another -- he can't get past the fact that she married his brother, and she is still so hurt by their breakup years ago. Things aren't always as they seem, however, and once they hammer out their issues of the past, Summer and Nash fall into an easy relationship...
But it's a secret one. How will the town react to her moving on so quickly? How will Nash's parents respond? There is a lot to be navigated before they can get to their HEA, but in the end, it always Should Have Been Summer and Nash.
I received an advanced copy and voluntarily left a review.
September 14, 2024
ʟᴀᴋᴇ ꜱᴘᴀʀᴋ #3 ꜱʜᴏᴜʟᴅ ʜᴀᴠᴇ ʙᴇᴇɴ - ᴇᴠᴇʏ ʟʏᴏɴ - 4⭐️
After the death of his brother (Zac), Nash returns to Lake Spark. Because of Zac’s last wish, he even moves in with his widow and single mom Summer, with whom Nash shares a past. Living together doesn’t make it easy to ignore the presence of the other. They reconnect and off course feelings burried deep inside of them come to the surface. It’s difficult to forget the past, but Summer is also afraid of what people will think about the switch of brothers… She needs time to adapt to the possibility. Nash is very sweet and lets her have it, but he is sure about them and knows very quickly he isn’t gonna leave Summer behind a second time!
Lovely story about getting a second chance. With some flashbacks to the past you can see the moments, attraction and love they shared. But also that they loved Zac. I think it’s nice to see that there is in no way any cheating or some of that kind. It’s actually more that the love they felt for Zac made them make some decisions with consequences. But also gave Zac the possibility to experience life.
It was a good ending of the Lake Spark series. Like the others it was filled with beautiful moments and off course some spicy ones 😉 Next up is the Everhope Series which we already got a sneak peek at the end of this story.
Thnx for the review copy @wordsmithpublicity @eveylyonbooks.
🏷️ Amazon, Forced proximity, Single mom, Small Town, Second Chance, Banter, Steamy
After the death of his brother (Zac), Nash returns to Lake Spark. Because of Zac’s last wish, he even moves in with his widow and single mom Summer, with whom Nash shares a past. Living together doesn’t make it easy to ignore the presence of the other. They reconnect and off course feelings burried deep inside of them come to the surface. It’s difficult to forget the past, but Summer is also afraid of what people will think about the switch of brothers… She needs time to adapt to the possibility. Nash is very sweet and lets her have it, but he is sure about them and knows very quickly he isn’t gonna leave Summer behind a second time!
Lovely story about getting a second chance. With some flashbacks to the past you can see the moments, attraction and love they shared. But also that they loved Zac. I think it’s nice to see that there is in no way any cheating or some of that kind. It’s actually more that the love they felt for Zac made them make some decisions with consequences. But also gave Zac the possibility to experience life.
It was a good ending of the Lake Spark series. Like the others it was filled with beautiful moments and off course some spicy ones 😉 Next up is the Everhope Series which we already got a sneak peek at the end of this story.
Thnx for the review copy @wordsmithpublicity @eveylyonbooks.
🏷️ Amazon, Forced proximity, Single mom, Small Town, Second Chance, Banter, Steamy
August 25, 2024
Should Have Been: A Small Town Second Chance Romance (The Lake Spark World Book 9) by Evey Lyon takes place after Summer has been left a widow with a young baby under a year old to raise after losing her doctor husband to cancer. As a stipulation of his will, Zac wanted his older brother, retired hockey player Nash, to move in with Summer and baby Bo for six weeks to help her in any way she needed. Nash and Summer had a romantic history dating back seven years prior that also triggered a tragic accident when Nash broke up with her. Afterward, Nash just left to pursue a career in the NHL. After being left broken, Zac stepped up and offered her marriage. Not all love and romance are in their marriage, but they care for each other. Once Nash moves in with Summer and Bo, their old feelings surface as they both deal with the grief of losing Zac. Evey Lyon writes a beautiful 2nd chance romance in Should Have Been. Whether it is ghosts of the past or ghost cookies at the Dizzy Duck, there is drama and parental interference with the cutest baby ever added in. Should Had Been reflects Nash, Zac’s, and Summer’s past. Summer and Nash try to navigate an unknown future to find out what is right for them and Bo, regardless of the consequences. Evey Lyon writes down-to-earth characters who live through issues that readers can relate to.
August 4, 2024
Should Hve Been by E. Lyon, is book 3 and the conclusion in the Lark Spark Inn Trilogy and book 9 inn the Lark Spark world.
Yes, therer are cross overs to previous books, I recommend to read in order.
Summer, Nash and Zac, a little boy, that are the main characters. Semms easy, but isn't. O contraire it's very complex. So lets drösel it up. Nash and Summer were friends and more at one time. Zac was Nash's brother, he married Summer for reasons. And for reasons Nash stepped back, conjured his sports career. Now that everything has changed, maybe he has his chance at hea. Lean back, enjoy and lets see.
Blurb: Nash didn't plan on living with his brother's widow. Or that he may finally get his chance to win me back.
I ended up with the wrong brother. Now, he has passed away, leaving me a widow with a baby. But then his brother Nash walks back into our small town and my life. My disdain for the former hockey player is apparent, yet still, he moves in to care for my son and me, claiming it was his estranged brother's dying wish.
The relationship that develops is inevitable; we have a past, after all. But the dilemmas we reveal may tear us apart. And the trail we create in the fallout of our romance makes me realize; we're something that always should have been.
Yes, therer are cross overs to previous books, I recommend to read in order.
Summer, Nash and Zac, a little boy, that are the main characters. Semms easy, but isn't. O contraire it's very complex. So lets drösel it up. Nash and Summer were friends and more at one time. Zac was Nash's brother, he married Summer for reasons. And for reasons Nash stepped back, conjured his sports career. Now that everything has changed, maybe he has his chance at hea. Lean back, enjoy and lets see.
Blurb: Nash didn't plan on living with his brother's widow. Or that he may finally get his chance to win me back.
I ended up with the wrong brother. Now, he has passed away, leaving me a widow with a baby. But then his brother Nash walks back into our small town and my life. My disdain for the former hockey player is apparent, yet still, he moves in to care for my son and me, claiming it was his estranged brother's dying wish.
The relationship that develops is inevitable; we have a past, after all. But the dilemmas we reveal may tear us apart. And the trail we create in the fallout of our romance makes me realize; we're something that always should have been.
September 1, 2024
*Just about 4 stars*
This is the third book in this series but can be read as a standalone. I gotta say that it took me a while before getting into the story and find my footing with it as I was a bit lost but then it picked up and I started to enjoy the relationship between Nash & Summer. I definitely liked their connection and how the story progressed. I liked their interaction and banter. It was a sometimes a complicated situation but I liked the characters. A great read!
As Summer tries to deal with her husband's passing, his last request turns her world upside down as his brother, Nash, is back in town and will be staying in their house for the next few weeks. It's nothing like she suspected but with their connected past, it's not easy to be around him after all this time. As Nash comes back into town, his brother's request leaves me baffled, but it's a request he's willing to fulfill. He has always loved Summer and their connection still seems strong, even though she tries to stay out of his way but he's committed to being there for her and her son. As time goes on, her walls are starting to break down but it still feels too early to move on. Will they find their way back to each other in the end?...
This is the third book in this series but can be read as a standalone. I gotta say that it took me a while before getting into the story and find my footing with it as I was a bit lost but then it picked up and I started to enjoy the relationship between Nash & Summer. I definitely liked their connection and how the story progressed. I liked their interaction and banter. It was a sometimes a complicated situation but I liked the characters. A great read!
As Summer tries to deal with her husband's passing, his last request turns her world upside down as his brother, Nash, is back in town and will be staying in their house for the next few weeks. It's nothing like she suspected but with their connected past, it's not easy to be around him after all this time. As Nash comes back into town, his brother's request leaves me baffled, but it's a request he's willing to fulfill. He has always loved Summer and their connection still seems strong, even though she tries to stay out of his way but he's committed to being there for her and her son. As time goes on, her walls are starting to break down but it still feels too early to move on. Will they find their way back to each other in the end?...
August 14, 2024
Who would be the better person? The one that clears a path or the one that sets the board for you to win? Both?? It might not seem so at the moment when you start to read this book. You might think that Nash got the short end of the stick so to speak when he gave his brother the ultimate gift of stepping aside. Yeah, men can be stupid. However the right thing to do is never clear when you love with all your heart. And so our story is set to show us the stupidity of men and the one woman they both love, Sunmer.
If you feel that what I have disclosed is confusing, just think how our two lovers feel? Nash and Summer two people with history, two people who loved the third person in their history and now they are two people in mourning and lost in how to handle the new reality they are faced with. This is where our author excels, impossible situations with a clarity of hearts filled with love. This is what makes her books so enticing to read. Books that you can’t put down once you started, well at least for me they aren’t.
So we journey back to Dizzy Duck Inn and Lake Spark for some more of our retired hockey players to fall in love!
If you feel that what I have disclosed is confusing, just think how our two lovers feel? Nash and Summer two people with history, two people who loved the third person in their history and now they are two people in mourning and lost in how to handle the new reality they are faced with. This is where our author excels, impossible situations with a clarity of hearts filled with love. This is what makes her books so enticing to read. Books that you can’t put down once you started, well at least for me they aren’t.
So we journey back to Dizzy Duck Inn and Lake Spark for some more of our retired hockey players to fall in love!
August 29, 2024
’Well make it to the other side of the cloud, I promise.’
Evey Lyon pulls out all the emotional stops with ‘Should Have Been’, the final and perhaps most captivating installment in The Lake Spark World Series. Across nine books, Ms Lyon has delivered nine deeply emotional reads that linger in your heart, each one deserving of a perfect five-star rating. But Nash and Summer’s story, centered around a resilient single mom, is the emotional crescendo, the sweet, aching finale that truly stands out.
In this final book, we’re drawn into the poignant life of Summer, who is still grappling with the recent loss of her husband. Just when she thinks she’s beginning to find her footing, she’s hit with a request from beyond the grave—a request that could alter the course of her life and her baby Bo’s forever. Her late husband’s last wish? For his brother Nash, the man who was once Summer’s secret love, to live with them for six weeks.
What unfolds is a story brimming with heartache and healing, where old secrets resurface, and the past must be faced head-on. It’s a journey through what might have been, a navigation through outside forces, and, ultimately, a rediscovery of love.
Evey Lyon couldn’t have packed more soul-stirring moments into this novel if she tried. *Should Have Been* is a heartwarming, unique conclusion to a series that has left an indelible mark on its readers. A truly unforgettable end to a wonderful series, this book is a celebration of love, healing, and the courage it takes to embrace a second chance.
August 29, 2024
I received an ARC of this book from Wordsmith Publicity. All thoughts are my own.
I'm beyond words with this one. I'm not ready for Lake Spark to end. I have so enjoyed this quirky little town, it's fun residents and perfect locales. But we did end on a good note. A sad start to an even sadder story. A sister caught between two brothers - and the inevitable broken hearts.
Nash Nix thought he had it all. There was just one thing - the object of his brother's love. Nash loved Summer first, but he gave her up because Zac also loved her. And he loved his brother. Fast forward to the end of Nash's hockey career. Zac has passed away and left some specific instructions in his will. He requests that Nash move in with Summer and her infant son.
Nash and Summer are on a collision course straight back to each other. But how will everyone else in their lives feel about that? But most importantly, can they fall back into each other like they were before? This emotional tale will have you shedding a few tears. The HEA was so hard fought, and I know it was the perfect wrap-up to this series. I just wish there was more.
I'm beyond words with this one. I'm not ready for Lake Spark to end. I have so enjoyed this quirky little town, it's fun residents and perfect locales. But we did end on a good note. A sad start to an even sadder story. A sister caught between two brothers - and the inevitable broken hearts.
Nash Nix thought he had it all. There was just one thing - the object of his brother's love. Nash loved Summer first, but he gave her up because Zac also loved her. And he loved his brother. Fast forward to the end of Nash's hockey career. Zac has passed away and left some specific instructions in his will. He requests that Nash move in with Summer and her infant son.
Nash and Summer are on a collision course straight back to each other. But how will everyone else in their lives feel about that? But most importantly, can they fall back into each other like they were before? This emotional tale will have you shedding a few tears. The HEA was so hard fought, and I know it was the perfect wrap-up to this series. I just wish there was more.
August 23, 2024
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🔥🔥🔥🔥
💙 Second Chance
💙Single Mom
💙Forced Proximity
💙Love After Loss
💙He Falls First
Oh this book has all the feels! Summer and Nash together are just everything. This was my first Evey Lyon book and I can say I am hooked!!!! I’m so looking forward to reading all of her other books!
Summer and Nash have known each for years. Growing up together, Nash’s brother Zan was Summer’s best friend. Summer and Nash definitely had a relationship of their own that Zac didn’t fully understand….or did he?
One thing leads to another and now Zac is gone, Summer is a widow and Nash is back at the request of his late brother. With him living with Summer and his nephew, sparks fly between these two former flames. This book just had me alternating between tears and laughter. I thought Nash and Zac’s love for Summer was so sweet. And sweet Summer, who puts everyone else’s feelings before her own. Definitely don’t miss this read! And be assured there is absolutely no cheating involved in this love story.
Thank you to Evey Lyon and Wordsmith Publicity for the ARC of this book.
🔥🔥🔥🔥
💙 Second Chance
💙Single Mom
💙Forced Proximity
💙Love After Loss
💙He Falls First
Oh this book has all the feels! Summer and Nash together are just everything. This was my first Evey Lyon book and I can say I am hooked!!!! I’m so looking forward to reading all of her other books!
Summer and Nash have known each for years. Growing up together, Nash’s brother Zan was Summer’s best friend. Summer and Nash definitely had a relationship of their own that Zac didn’t fully understand….or did he?
One thing leads to another and now Zac is gone, Summer is a widow and Nash is back at the request of his late brother. With him living with Summer and his nephew, sparks fly between these two former flames. This book just had me alternating between tears and laughter. I thought Nash and Zac’s love for Summer was so sweet. And sweet Summer, who puts everyone else’s feelings before her own. Definitely don’t miss this read! And be assured there is absolutely no cheating involved in this love story.
Thank you to Evey Lyon and Wordsmith Publicity for the ARC of this book.
August 29, 2024
Oh my gosh this series really does just keep getting better and better . It’s not often I come across a series that has captivated me quite the way this one has . That has played on all my emotions to the point there were moments I was completely speechless and others I was yelling outta pure frustration. That had the ability to make me smile , laugh out loud and cry like a baby all at once . But this series has done it all in spades . I’ve genuinely loved every book and every couple but something about Nash and Summers epic love story just touched my heart so completely. A story about being in love with someone and not being able to be with them . But circumstances and tragedy bring these two together when they least expect it not to mention need each other the most . Could this be their chance to be together? Well it’s definitely not an easy journey and they have many obstacles to overcome but then again love and relationships take work . This is without a doubt a journey you absolutely need to experience for yourself to fully appreciate. It’s so beautiful and emotional 💜💜💜💜
August 31, 2024
Mixed Feelings
I was anxiously waiting for Nash and Summer’s story. I knew there was history but gosh I am not sure I liked the hand they were dealt. I feel like they were robbed but at the same time they gave their love away. It seems like they both catered to Zac who was built up like the fragile brother who needed protecting and I’m sorry but I feel like he milked it. Did he mean harm, no I don’t think so but he caused harm nonetheless. Nash knew how much Summer loved him and he loved her too. I was ticked off that he made a decision to leave for both of them based on Zac’s confession of love for Summer. I think that Nash should have been honest with Summer. She deserved that from him. Then the audacity of him to feel some kind of way about her and Zac when he’s the one who left her. I found myself getting irritated with the entire situation. The history only made me more aggravated. Needless to say that this was not my favorite book in the series. I found that I loved the ending but I can’t get over all the stuff that got them there.
I was anxiously waiting for Nash and Summer’s story. I knew there was history but gosh I am not sure I liked the hand they were dealt. I feel like they were robbed but at the same time they gave their love away. It seems like they both catered to Zac who was built up like the fragile brother who needed protecting and I’m sorry but I feel like he milked it. Did he mean harm, no I don’t think so but he caused harm nonetheless. Nash knew how much Summer loved him and he loved her too. I was ticked off that he made a decision to leave for both of them based on Zac’s confession of love for Summer. I think that Nash should have been honest with Summer. She deserved that from him. Then the audacity of him to feel some kind of way about her and Zac when he’s the one who left her. I found myself getting irritated with the entire situation. The history only made me more aggravated. Needless to say that this was not my favorite book in the series. I found that I loved the ending but I can’t get over all the stuff that got them there.
April 16, 2026
There are so many emotions tied up in this book. On one hand, you have heartache, anger, sadness, manipulation, love, remorse, happiness, shame, and lust. And all because Summer was best friends with Zac, the brother working toward becoming a doctor, who was her ride or die. However, her heart belonged to Nash Zac’s older hockey-playing brother. Due to Zac’s medical condition, I feel he used it to manipulate his brother. Knowing full well that Summer and Nash were having a relationship. He wanted her for himself. So, he got Nash to hurt her, so he wouldn’t have to be the one hurting. He went as far as getting her to marry him and then talked her into letting him buy her, and their baby not yet born, a home. Yet, in his will, he asked Nash to move in with her for six weeks to help her with Bo, their baby, and anything around the house. It was an interesting read, that is for sure. I hated the way Nash’s father talked about and to Summer. For me, Nash waited several beats too long before he defended her. Words like those never go away.
August 17, 2024
I am in love with this small town, and this series has become one of my favorites. I was excited about Summer's book and wanted to know about her equation with the Nix brothers. Just as expected from Evey, this read was every bit of an emotional rollercoaster. I was engrossed in the read from the first page. I could not help but fall for Summer, Nash, and their story tugged at my heart strings. Getting to know their past helped me get to know them and their love better. I was an emotional mess and rooting for Nash to win Summer once again. The spice was off the charts, and their chemistry was sizzling hot. Sometimes, some people are meant to be, and Summer, Nash, were that. I loved how much Nash connected with Bo. As always, having a glimpse of some of my favorites was an added bonus. I am excited for Keats book next and hopefully will get a glimpse of all my favorites. Thanks to Evey and Wordsmith Publicist, for the advanced copy of this spellbounding read.
August 29, 2024
I didn't expect it to go in this direction. After reading Should Have Run, the previous book, and reading Summer a little, I could notice some elements of her story but I didn't imagine her story would turn this way.
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In this book we see how Summer is trying to get over a Nix brother, but not the one who just died a few months ago, the father of her son and her husband, but her brother. Nash returned to his hometown of Lake Spark to fulfill his brother's last wishes, to take care of his wife and months-old son for a couple of weeks.
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What his brother never knew is that Summer and Nash were more than just acquaintances through him, long before he had feelings for her. But when her brother starts his NHL career and leaves town, Zac is the one who stays close to Summer and the one that end up marrying her.
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You can feel the angst running and going through the pages but also the scenes where they remember the relationship they had when they were younger and instead of suffering for what was not it, becomes a story of finding the way to what they can be and going through the challenges remembering what brought them together
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It's sad that it's the last story in Lake Spark but I think Evey Leyon is already thinking about the next beautiful quirky and small town.
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Thanks to Evey Lyon and her team for give me a copy of this beautiful book in exchange for my honest and voluntary opinion.
.
In this book we see how Summer is trying to get over a Nix brother, but not the one who just died a few months ago, the father of her son and her husband, but her brother. Nash returned to his hometown of Lake Spark to fulfill his brother's last wishes, to take care of his wife and months-old son for a couple of weeks.
.
What his brother never knew is that Summer and Nash were more than just acquaintances through him, long before he had feelings for her. But when her brother starts his NHL career and leaves town, Zac is the one who stays close to Summer and the one that end up marrying her.
.
You can feel the angst running and going through the pages but also the scenes where they remember the relationship they had when they were younger and instead of suffering for what was not it, becomes a story of finding the way to what they can be and going through the challenges remembering what brought them together
.
It's sad that it's the last story in Lake Spark but I think Evey Leyon is already thinking about the next beautiful quirky and small town.
.
Thanks to Evey Lyon and her team for give me a copy of this beautiful book in exchange for my honest and voluntary opinion.
September 4, 2024
This is the third and last book in the series about Lake Spark Inn and we find Summer, who we know from the previous books and Nash, the part owner of the Inn who returns to town now.
Nash returns because his brother, Summer's dead husband, ask for it as one of his last wishes, to help her with their baby. But what nobody knows is that Nash and Summer have history, they had a secret relationship before she started dating his brother and he became a famous hockey player.
Now they are older and wiser? and they have to try to grieve and to be civil with each other while Nash get to be an uncle and finally get the woman of his dreams.
I enjoyed this book and how we get to know their relationship with the dual time line, and how the now side characters still appear to give them advice or just give them a cookie.
This is a single mom, forbidden?/secret relationship, second chance small town romance with open door spice.
- arc read-
Nash returns because his brother, Summer's dead husband, ask for it as one of his last wishes, to help her with their baby. But what nobody knows is that Nash and Summer have history, they had a secret relationship before she started dating his brother and he became a famous hockey player.
Now they are older and wiser? and they have to try to grieve and to be civil with each other while Nash get to be an uncle and finally get the woman of his dreams.
I enjoyed this book and how we get to know their relationship with the dual time line, and how the now side characters still appear to give them advice or just give them a cookie.
This is a single mom, forbidden?/secret relationship, second chance small town romance with open door spice.
- arc read-
November 30, 2024
Oh My! I've volunteered to review this book for United Indie Book Blog. This is my first time reading something from Evey Lyon, Should Have Been is the ninth book in the Lake Spark Inn series. This is Nash and Summer's story. . This was a lovely second chance romance set in wonderful little town of Lake Spark. Nash and Summer were so good. OMG I swear you can feel the chemistry come through each page. Nash is a former hockey player, who comes back to his hometown after his brother’s passes, while Summer is left a widow with a small baby. I definitely liked their connection and how the story progressed. I liked their interaction and banter. Make sure that you have a box of tissue next to you while reading. I know i needed one. Cause, there are so many emotions in this story. Heartbreak, grief, resentment, guilt, and so much love. I can't wait to go back and read the rest of this series. Keep up the amazing work! It's a MUST READ!!!
August 30, 2024
Review:
🏒Should Have Been🏒
Lake Spark Inn series #3
By Evey Lyon
⭐5/5 ❤️5/5 🌶️4/5
🏒 Second Chance
🏒 Single Mom
🏒 Small Town Romance
Saved the best for last
Summer
A widow who doesn't want to get hurt again
Nash
Determined to get his second chance AND the girl this time
Saved the best for last was my first thought after finishing the story of Summer and Nash. But really? The whole series was just amazing. They only got better and better.
As we follow this story we see all the emotions needed for this one. Hurt, anger, fear, grief and of course love.
Selflessness brought them apart once. A growing love story without enough time to expand.
Now years later sad circumstances bring them together again. But those years also drove a wedge between them and now hurt, anger and mistrust reign.
Nash has a wish to fulfill and while doing that proofing himself worthy of a second chance.
Summer is torn between wanting Nash and not doing the right thing by being with him again.
But their story is complicated and with all the secrets, past and now, only keeps getting more difficult.
But is there a right or wrong when it comes to true love and the way it has chosen?
It is an emotional rollercoaster. The characters are well described with flaws and issues. Relatable and to feel for and with.
Appreciated appearances from the former couples.
Spiked with spicy scenes and bickering and bantering. Perfect ending for this series but I am also sad to say goodbye.
🏒Should Have Been🏒
Lake Spark Inn series #3
By Evey Lyon
⭐5/5 ❤️5/5 🌶️4/5
🏒 Second Chance
🏒 Single Mom
🏒 Small Town Romance
Saved the best for last
Summer
A widow who doesn't want to get hurt again
Nash
Determined to get his second chance AND the girl this time
Saved the best for last was my first thought after finishing the story of Summer and Nash. But really? The whole series was just amazing. They only got better and better.
As we follow this story we see all the emotions needed for this one. Hurt, anger, fear, grief and of course love.
Selflessness brought them apart once. A growing love story without enough time to expand.
Now years later sad circumstances bring them together again. But those years also drove a wedge between them and now hurt, anger and mistrust reign.
Nash has a wish to fulfill and while doing that proofing himself worthy of a second chance.
Summer is torn between wanting Nash and not doing the right thing by being with him again.
But their story is complicated and with all the secrets, past and now, only keeps getting more difficult.
But is there a right or wrong when it comes to true love and the way it has chosen?
It is an emotional rollercoaster. The characters are well described with flaws and issues. Relatable and to feel for and with.
Appreciated appearances from the former couples.
Spiked with spicy scenes and bickering and bantering. Perfect ending for this series but I am also sad to say goodbye.
August 29, 2024
Wow! I absolutely loved this book. Amazing characters and wonderful plot. Very beautifully written and easy to read.
Nash is an ex hockey player. Summer is the love of his life. She’s also his brother’s widow. Nash, Zac and Summer grew up together. Zac and Summer were best friends, Nash and Summer fell in love with each other and had a secret relationship. Now, years later, Nash is forced to move in with summer and his nephew, Bo for a period of time and it’s been, for both of them.
Their story was full of tension and emotions. I loved how he seamlessly loved Bo and became a part of their family. I loved the chemistry and passion between Nash and Summer. They were made for each other.
Overall I loved this book very much. If you’re looking for a single mother, second chance, forced proximity romance then you’re going to love it.
Nash is an ex hockey player. Summer is the love of his life. She’s also his brother’s widow. Nash, Zac and Summer grew up together. Zac and Summer were best friends, Nash and Summer fell in love with each other and had a secret relationship. Now, years later, Nash is forced to move in with summer and his nephew, Bo for a period of time and it’s been, for both of them.
Their story was full of tension and emotions. I loved how he seamlessly loved Bo and became a part of their family. I loved the chemistry and passion between Nash and Summer. They were made for each other.
Overall I loved this book very much. If you’re looking for a single mother, second chance, forced proximity romance then you’re going to love it.
September 2, 2024
Summer married her best friend Zac and even if it wasn’t the romance she has dreamed of they shared a life and a son. Now that he has passed away it will force her to face the feelings she had for Nash, her first love and Zac’s brother as one of her husband’s last requests was that Nash be there for her and their son following his death.
Nash loved Summer but he also loved his brother so caught in an untenable position he had a choice to make which hurt them both. When they find themselves living together to honor his brother it will force them to face the events of the past and decide where they go from here.
Nash and Summer take us on a journey that is filled with emotion and love that hasn’t diminished over time. They have a lot of challenges and turmoil to overcome as they try to deal with their feelings for each other as well as the loss they both share.
Nash loved Summer but he also loved his brother so caught in an untenable position he had a choice to make which hurt them both. When they find themselves living together to honor his brother it will force them to face the events of the past and decide where they go from here.
Nash and Summer take us on a journey that is filled with emotion and love that hasn’t diminished over time. They have a lot of challenges and turmoil to overcome as they try to deal with their feelings for each other as well as the loss they both share.
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