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Embers in Our Past
What should you do when the life you've always wanted seems hopelessly out of reach?
Clay Nichols thought he was living his happily ever after with Abby, his wife that he pictured forever with. Loving her was effortless. No matter what obstacles they faced, they navigated them as a team. Having a baby was taking a long time, but they were exploring all their options together. Until the day Abby suddenly left it all behind.
Eighteen months ago, Abby walked away from her husband and her life in Boston. Unable to give Clay the family they dreamed of, she sacrificed her own happiness, allowing him a chance at the future he always wanted. A fresh start in California was exactly what she needed…or was it?
When Abby shows up one night at Clay's local bar on the arm of a fellow firefighter, things get heated. Clay is ready to stop at nothing to put his life and his marriage back together. Can he win her back, or will everything fall apart once again?
Clay Nichols thought he was living his happily ever after with Abby, his wife that he pictured forever with. Loving her was effortless. No matter what obstacles they faced, they navigated them as a team. Having a baby was taking a long time, but they were exploring all their options together. Until the day Abby suddenly left it all behind.
Eighteen months ago, Abby walked away from her husband and her life in Boston. Unable to give Clay the family they dreamed of, she sacrificed her own happiness, allowing him a chance at the future he always wanted. A fresh start in California was exactly what she needed…or was it?
When Abby shows up one night at Clay's local bar on the arm of a fellow firefighter, things get heated. Clay is ready to stop at nothing to put his life and his marriage back together. Can he win her back, or will everything fall apart once again?
296 pages, ebook
Published December 9, 2024
3 people are currently reading
101 people want to read
About the author
Stefanie Castro
8 books80 followersAs a first-generation American, born and raised in Southern California, Stefanie found a love for writing after she had built her career in nursing. She continues to work as a full-time nurse in a remote position, but has incorporated writing into her routine, writing at night and when possible during the weekend. She also enjoys reading when time allows. This was never something she imagined possible, but it has opened up a world of connection with readers all across the world. Romance writing is something that has filled her cup and has brought immense joy to her life. Stefanie currently resides in Southern California, with her husband, two kids, and their Cavalier King Charles dog.
Instagram ⇢ @stefaniecastro.author
Email ⇢ stefanie.castro.writes@gmail.com
Instagram ⇢ @stefaniecastro.author
Email ⇢ stefanie.castro.writes@gmail.com
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 76 reviews
February 4, 2025
“I would have walked the surface of the sun if it meant she was waiting for me on the other side.”
Embers in our Past was such a heartbreakingly beautiful story of love, loss and rediscovering happiness. This is the second book in the series and I loved the first book so much, I was so excited to get into this one!
Abby and Clay’s journey is filled with raw emotion while they navigate life after separation. Abby’s journey although difficult and infuriating to me in the beginning, turned out so beautifully written. Her character growth from beginning to end of the book was truly a journey. Clay is 100% the most perfect book boyfriend. Regardless of the hurt Abby had put him through he knew she was the one and he was never going to give up on her. The rekindling and the passion between the two was palpable from the pages.
The author does such a great job at portraying realistic and raw feelings between the characters. There were some really tough topics in this book and I felt that they were handled with care, but with the painful reality of it all. This book is addicting! Once you start you can’t put it down. I also really loved seeing all the characters we met in the previous book, and the BANTER! Literally had me laughing out loud.
I would very highly recommend this book to all my book besties who love heart breaking second chances, firefighters and aren’t afraid to shed a few tears!
Thank you SO much to the author for gifting me the physical copy of the book and to the authors agency for the E-ARC! 🫶🏻
Embers in our Past was such a heartbreakingly beautiful story of love, loss and rediscovering happiness. This is the second book in the series and I loved the first book so much, I was so excited to get into this one!
Abby and Clay’s journey is filled with raw emotion while they navigate life after separation. Abby’s journey although difficult and infuriating to me in the beginning, turned out so beautifully written. Her character growth from beginning to end of the book was truly a journey. Clay is 100% the most perfect book boyfriend. Regardless of the hurt Abby had put him through he knew she was the one and he was never going to give up on her. The rekindling and the passion between the two was palpable from the pages.
The author does such a great job at portraying realistic and raw feelings between the characters. There were some really tough topics in this book and I felt that they were handled with care, but with the painful reality of it all. This book is addicting! Once you start you can’t put it down. I also really loved seeing all the characters we met in the previous book, and the BANTER! Literally had me laughing out loud.
I would very highly recommend this book to all my book besties who love heart breaking second chances, firefighters and aren’t afraid to shed a few tears!
Thank you SO much to the author for gifting me the physical copy of the book and to the authors agency for the E-ARC! 🫶🏻
February 3, 2025
Arc copy review.
I really enjoyed Clay and Abby’s book their journey through their marriage was so relatable, and I imagine a lot of couples go through the same struggles.
•pregnancy trope
•fertility issues
•second chance
•firefighter
Please check trigger warnings, this book discusses fertility issues.
I really enjoyed Clay and Abby’s book their journey through their marriage was so relatable, and I imagine a lot of couples go through the same struggles.
•pregnancy trope
•fertility issues
•second chance
•firefighter
Please check trigger warnings, this book discusses fertility issues.
January 25, 2025
This was a heartfelt tale of love, loss, and the courage to rediscover happiness after heartbreak. This story beautifully explores second chances, especially when life doesn’t go as planned. Abby and Clay’s journey is filled with raw emotion as they navigate the pain of separation, the lingering spark of love, and the hope of rekindling what they thought was lost forever.
I adored the theme of finding love again after divorce—it’s both tender and inspiring. Stefanie Castro masterfully captures the complexities of relationships, proving that even in the ashes of our past, love can burn brighter than ever. A must-read for anyone who believes in the power of second chances! ❤️
4.5 stars rounded to 5!
I adored the theme of finding love again after divorce—it’s both tender and inspiring. Stefanie Castro masterfully captures the complexities of relationships, proving that even in the ashes of our past, love can burn brighter than ever. A must-read for anyone who believes in the power of second chances! ❤️
4.5 stars rounded to 5!
February 4, 2025
✨eARC Review✨
SO GOOD!! What a beautiful story. I loved it so much!
Abby and Clay are college sweethearts and married living in Boston. Abby is struggling with fertility issues and is so broken that she decides to leave Clay and move back to California. This story is about fertility issues, struggling in relationships and finding your way back to each other!
I loved Clay’s character SO MUCH… shall i say book husband of the year! 😘 he loved her so much and just wanted her to be happy, but also missed her so much. I loved that they couldn’t stay away from each other. 5 freaking stars!!!
🤰pregnancy | fertility issues | second chance romance | firefighter
SO GOOD!! What a beautiful story. I loved it so much!
Abby and Clay are college sweethearts and married living in Boston. Abby is struggling with fertility issues and is so broken that she decides to leave Clay and move back to California. This story is about fertility issues, struggling in relationships and finding your way back to each other!
I loved Clay’s character SO MUCH… shall i say book husband of the year! 😘 he loved her so much and just wanted her to be happy, but also missed her so much. I loved that they couldn’t stay away from each other. 5 freaking stars!!!
🤰pregnancy | fertility issues | second chance romance | firefighter
February 6, 2025
A heartfelt story that takes you through heartbreak, discovering oneself again and getting a second chance at love.
Once you start you can not put it down! From the moment Abby and Clay end their marriage to them finding themselves and with a surprise nonetheless its a journey that you see both of them grow especially Abby knowing how she struggled with how she thought about herself when she was unable to conceive.
They keep you going as you see how they are different in that time apart yet that spark they brought them together is still there. It's easy to fall for them along with everyone else from funny crazy twin brothers to new and old friends because there is never a boring moment with this family.
Embers in Our Past as well as Embers in the Outfield make this series a must add!
Once you start you can not put it down! From the moment Abby and Clay end their marriage to them finding themselves and with a surprise nonetheless its a journey that you see both of them grow especially Abby knowing how she struggled with how she thought about herself when she was unable to conceive.
They keep you going as you see how they are different in that time apart yet that spark they brought them together is still there. It's easy to fall for them along with everyone else from funny crazy twin brothers to new and old friends because there is never a boring moment with this family.
Embers in Our Past as well as Embers in the Outfield make this series a must add!
January 27, 2025
This was book number 2 in the series. This was about abbey and Clay. The story was uplifting, heartfelt and sweet. It is down to earth with real life issues that hit home with many people. Once I started reading I could not put the book down! Can not wait for the next book!!
November 25, 2025
I love second chance especially when it's a marriage. Clay and Abby's story was so good. What broke them was heartbreaking but what brought them back together was beautiful. The chemistry was good and it was well written.
February 2, 2025
For Cassy; YES. Just read my next sentence first.
I must warn you - this story deals with infertility & the mental health tolls it takes to both parties involved. So that's your warning.
This book was intriguing, infuriating, & so freaking addicting. The passion that the author poured into this story is evident, & I felt every emotion while on this journey.
The way that the author literally broke my heart at the beginning of this story was exceptionally rude. She just said eff it & stabbed me in my feels. I don't think I've ever started a romance novel, so jaded. I loved it. I continued to read because I needed to heal, & she did this.
Abigail (Abby) infuriated me at so many points in this (in the best ways). She was such a kind-hearted person that my jaded heart actually understood & appreciated that she broke me. Her personal turmoil is truly devastating, & there is no way for me to relate at any point, which is why - please stab me as many times as you need to Abby. I'll heal. It's fine.
The way that she rebuilt herself to be a better version is truly admirable & quite beautiful. She needed that time.
Clay. What can I say about Clay?
Gosh, darn, he is the epitome of perfection! He's also fictional, so let me simmer down . . .
Ok, I'm ready. Clay is patient, kind, possessive, protective, & charming AF.
The way he "My Wife" in that bar scene? Ooo weee
They way he "My P*ssy" in quite a few scenes? MHM YES
But the way that he also steps back to give Abby space. The way that he moves aside to be her support. The way that he just shows up for her & woo's her all over again. I love it. I absolutely adore this man.
The chemistry between Abby & Clay is clearly so organic & fluid that there's no forcing their connection. You can feel it even in the scene that breaks me to pieces at the start. But their deep connection is the balm that soothes the pain. You can feel the magnetic pull & you just know that the happily ever after will be worth it. And it was.
Stefanie rights such hard-hitting love stories that are full of so much depth & I can't get enough
I must warn you - this story deals with infertility & the mental health tolls it takes to both parties involved. So that's your warning.
This book was intriguing, infuriating, & so freaking addicting. The passion that the author poured into this story is evident, & I felt every emotion while on this journey.
The way that the author literally broke my heart at the beginning of this story was exceptionally rude. She just said eff it & stabbed me in my feels. I don't think I've ever started a romance novel, so jaded. I loved it. I continued to read because I needed to heal, & she did this.
Abigail (Abby) infuriated me at so many points in this (in the best ways). She was such a kind-hearted person that my jaded heart actually understood & appreciated that she broke me. Her personal turmoil is truly devastating, & there is no way for me to relate at any point, which is why - please stab me as many times as you need to Abby. I'll heal. It's fine.
The way that she rebuilt herself to be a better version is truly admirable & quite beautiful. She needed that time.
Clay. What can I say about Clay?
Gosh, darn, he is the epitome of perfection! He's also fictional, so let me simmer down . . .
Ok, I'm ready. Clay is patient, kind, possessive, protective, & charming AF.
The way he "My Wife" in that bar scene? Ooo weee
They way he "My P*ssy" in quite a few scenes? MHM YES
But the way that he also steps back to give Abby space. The way that he moves aside to be her support. The way that he just shows up for her & woo's her all over again. I love it. I absolutely adore this man.
The chemistry between Abby & Clay is clearly so organic & fluid that there's no forcing their connection. You can feel it even in the scene that breaks me to pieces at the start. But their deep connection is the balm that soothes the pain. You can feel the magnetic pull & you just know that the happily ever after will be worth it. And it was.
Stefanie rights such hard-hitting love stories that are full of so much depth & I can't get enough
February 12, 2025
I was initially really was drawn to this book by the front cover - I mean come on - firefighter vibes just had me right there.
When I spotted it was a book 2 of the Boston Embers series, I was a little worried that I might be a little lost in terms of character development - but this really wasn't the case at all.
This book focusses on Clay and Abby who may or may not have been mentioned in book 1 - but this story definitely reads just fine as a standalone and didn't leave me feeling like I'd missed out on anything previously.
This story was so beautiful - but an emotional rollercoaster and with some tough topics explored, it's best to check out the content warnings before reading, just in case.
When Abby and Clay struggle to start a family, Abby leaves the relationship to allow Clay to find his happiness with someone else - what she didn't do was communicate this with Clay, who would have done anything to keep her by his side!
I found this such a heartbreaking story and spent a good amount of time frustrated and wishing that the pair had just communicated things properly!
But the rekindling of their relationship just had me in pieces.
I loved both characters (eventually!) - Abby put Clay through some tough times - but her development was stunning and Clay was just the most committed - knowing from day one that Abby was it for him!
The writing style was captivating and had me hooked from start to finish!
Dealing with the tough events so sensitively but also adding in some light-hearted fun and banter along the way to keep this well balanced throughout.
I am obsessed and absolutely have to get my hands on book one to catch up on the series - this should tide me over whilst awaiting the next release ....
When I spotted it was a book 2 of the Boston Embers series, I was a little worried that I might be a little lost in terms of character development - but this really wasn't the case at all.
This book focusses on Clay and Abby who may or may not have been mentioned in book 1 - but this story definitely reads just fine as a standalone and didn't leave me feeling like I'd missed out on anything previously.
This story was so beautiful - but an emotional rollercoaster and with some tough topics explored, it's best to check out the content warnings before reading, just in case.
When Abby and Clay struggle to start a family, Abby leaves the relationship to allow Clay to find his happiness with someone else - what she didn't do was communicate this with Clay, who would have done anything to keep her by his side!
I found this such a heartbreaking story and spent a good amount of time frustrated and wishing that the pair had just communicated things properly!
But the rekindling of their relationship just had me in pieces.
I loved both characters (eventually!) - Abby put Clay through some tough times - but her development was stunning and Clay was just the most committed - knowing from day one that Abby was it for him!
The writing style was captivating and had me hooked from start to finish!
Dealing with the tough events so sensitively but also adding in some light-hearted fun and banter along the way to keep this well balanced throughout.
I am obsessed and absolutely have to get my hands on book one to catch up on the series - this should tide me over whilst awaiting the next release ....
February 3, 2025
This was my first book by Stefanie Castro and will absolutely NOT be my last. I adored Embers in Our Past and I have to get my hands on book one so I can catch up! Please note - this CAN be read as a standalone.
Stefanie wrote about the heartbreak and soul-shattering world of infertility in such a beautiful way. If you've never dealt with it, or maybe you have ... she put words to emotions in a way that was so eloquent and relatable. Easier to understand, perhaps. It is an incredibly heavy topic, and was handled as such - but not just the hard parts. The coming out on the other side and finding yourself, as the person it directly affects, AND as a partner experiencing the same situations, but in a completely different way.
Abby and Clay became real to me - in their downward spiral, I found myself always rooting for them. Their journey as the past, present, and new versions of themselves was the trip of a lifetime. I could never articulate how much this book broke me, then put me back together. It was so inspiring and romantic and bittersweet and ALL of the things.
Thank you so much to The Author Agency and Stefanie Castro for the opportunity to read and review Embers in Our Past with my honest thoughts and opinions.
Stefanie wrote about the heartbreak and soul-shattering world of infertility in such a beautiful way. If you've never dealt with it, or maybe you have ... she put words to emotions in a way that was so eloquent and relatable. Easier to understand, perhaps. It is an incredibly heavy topic, and was handled as such - but not just the hard parts. The coming out on the other side and finding yourself, as the person it directly affects, AND as a partner experiencing the same situations, but in a completely different way.
Abby and Clay became real to me - in their downward spiral, I found myself always rooting for them. Their journey as the past, present, and new versions of themselves was the trip of a lifetime. I could never articulate how much this book broke me, then put me back together. It was so inspiring and romantic and bittersweet and ALL of the things.
Thank you so much to The Author Agency and Stefanie Castro for the opportunity to read and review Embers in Our Past with my honest thoughts and opinions.
February 10, 2025
αяᴄ яєνιєω
This is book two of the Boston Embers series. I had the pleasure of arc reading book one and knew I had to arc this one as well! I couldn’t thank Stefanie enough for choosing me again.
I’m not big on the second chance or friends to lovers tropes. I like them forbidden and enemies, but this was PERFECTION! Stefanie has a way with words, her stories are raw and feel utterly relatable and real. The first chapter had me, broken. Never have I read a book with a start like this…I dived right in and devoured it in hours. Her books are quick, heartfelt reads. This story touches on love, loss, heartbreak, and rediscovery. It’s beautiful and a must read for all second chance lovers.
Abby and Clay are both to die for! Their chemistry is truly organic. They love strong and hard, you feel it in your soul.
“It was like the biggest dream in the most devastating of circumstances.”
Clay - I’m in love with a fictional man, with dimples! The way he is patient, protective and obsessive is just 🫠! He had me at “What are you doing here with my wife, Malloy?” Ooof! I’m in awe of the ways Clay will forever show up for his girl.
I just couldn’t get enough! You fall in love with every character in Boston. Marissa - I need her in real life! Shes the friend everyone wants and needs. And the way this book ends - mic drop with the book three teaser. Malloy, I’m ready!
Thank you again, Stefanie for this wonderful read. And congrats on the success of book ✌🏻!
This is book two of the Boston Embers series. I had the pleasure of arc reading book one and knew I had to arc this one as well! I couldn’t thank Stefanie enough for choosing me again.
I’m not big on the second chance or friends to lovers tropes. I like them forbidden and enemies, but this was PERFECTION! Stefanie has a way with words, her stories are raw and feel utterly relatable and real. The first chapter had me, broken. Never have I read a book with a start like this…I dived right in and devoured it in hours. Her books are quick, heartfelt reads. This story touches on love, loss, heartbreak, and rediscovery. It’s beautiful and a must read for all second chance lovers.
Abby and Clay are both to die for! Their chemistry is truly organic. They love strong and hard, you feel it in your soul.
“It was like the biggest dream in the most devastating of circumstances.”
Clay - I’m in love with a fictional man, with dimples! The way he is patient, protective and obsessive is just 🫠! He had me at “What are you doing here with my wife, Malloy?” Ooof! I’m in awe of the ways Clay will forever show up for his girl.
I just couldn’t get enough! You fall in love with every character in Boston. Marissa - I need her in real life! Shes the friend everyone wants and needs. And the way this book ends - mic drop with the book three teaser. Malloy, I’m ready!
Thank you again, Stefanie for this wonderful read. And congrats on the success of book ✌🏻!
February 6, 2025
Embers In Our Past is a beautifully heartbroken book. There is so much raw emotion throughout and Stefanie really showed the real life struggles of infertility and marriage through her writing. The emotion in this book hit me right in the chest and I felt like I wasn’t reading a book but seeing a friend’s struggle right in front of my eyes. Clay and Abby’s journey through life after divorce is filled with so much realistic and raw feelings, they showed us what life is really like for some and the struggles people face. I loved that Abby got to go off and find herself again after struggling so much and that once she finally let Clay in on her true emotions behind their infertility they could really see each other in a different light. Getting back to their new normal together wasn’t easy for either of them especially when you throw in an accidentally pregnancy, they had to face their past and overcome their internal battles. I loved seeing them come together again and welcome their baby
Arc Review
Arc Review
January 31, 2025
This book was an emotional journey and I had a good time reading it. It tackled some tough situations in what I felt like was a way that was comparable to what real life is like for some people. The journey of infertility and the heartbreak and stress that comes with it was so hard for Abby and Clay in this book, and as a reader you felt that with them. Losing herself among the robotic routine of IVF was slowly chipping away at who she was. But the journey Abby has to take to find herself again was not free of relationship casualties. Clay’s love for Abby was well written in this book and you really feel for him and what he also ends up going through. It is clear they are meant for each other and that their paths were always meant to intertwine and stay connected. Might not have gone how they expected it, but life isn’t always what we think it will be. Their story of redemption made a great book.
February 4, 2025
Love isn’t roses and rainbows all the time, sometimes there is heartache and loss…but also the opportunity for a second chance at love too. This book is an emotional, contemporary romance that takes you on one heck of a roller coaster ride but leaves you with all the smiles at the last page (hello, HEA!). Clay has always been steadfast and loyal and is absolutely devastated when his wife, Abby takes some for herself. When she comes back into his life after their divorce, they work through all their feels, raw emotions and ALL. THE. THINGS. As a reader, I was so amazed at how I related to these characters: I felt sad, angry, happy, swoony and giddy…I was REALLY rooting for them to go from friends to lovers (again). Love, heartache and loss and second chances- I was here for it and loved it.
Thanks to the author and The Author Agency for an eARC-thoughts are mine, honest and voluntary.
Thanks to the author and The Author Agency for an eARC-thoughts are mine, honest and voluntary.
February 6, 2025
This was a beautiful second chance story between Clay & Abby. They were happily married until they were struggling with fertility. One day, Abby just couldn't handle it anymore and ran. 18 months later, she's back in Boston and when she runs into Clay things get interesting.
These two absolutely broke my heart. Sweet Clay.. he was so devoted to her even though she left him. Even though it took a long time, I loved seeing them work through all their issues and there were definitely a lot of them. I loved how Stefanie wove in real life situations that people struggle with every single day. The emotions were so raw and so real. I'm so glad they got their second chance together. They deserved it!
I would definitely check your TW before reading this one! Thank you so much to Stefanie Castro & The Author Agency for this ARC. This is my honest review.
These two absolutely broke my heart. Sweet Clay.. he was so devoted to her even though she left him. Even though it took a long time, I loved seeing them work through all their issues and there were definitely a lot of them. I loved how Stefanie wove in real life situations that people struggle with every single day. The emotions were so raw and so real. I'm so glad they got their second chance together. They deserved it!
I would definitely check your TW before reading this one! Thank you so much to Stefanie Castro & The Author Agency for this ARC. This is my honest review.
February 7, 2025
I was so looking forward to Clay's story when we met him in book one of the series. He and Abby were married and in love but because she couldn't give him the family she thought he deserved, she left and moved across the country. This is a wonderfully portrayed second chance romance about a divorced couple that found their way back to each other because their spark never died. This book does discuss fertility issues and Abby's struggles which is why she had pushed Clay away. In a way she thought he would be happier without her. This is a very heartfelt emotional read and a beautiful love story. I highly recommend this author's books. She really knows how to pull your heartstrings with her beautiful romances.
February 10, 2025
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🌶️🌶️🌶️
🚒Second chance
💗love after divorce
🚒firefighter MMC
💗Surprise Pregnancy
🚒It’s always been you
💗Mental health rep
🚒 Infertility rep
💗Friends to lovers (again)
🚒Found family
“Some stories don’t burn out - they smolder, waiting for the right moment to ignite again.”
“I would have walked the surface of the sun if it meant she was waiting for me on the other side.”
First off can I just say that Malloy MADE this book for me!! 😂💗 I seriously can’t WAIT for his book.
Ok now seriously…..I have to preface this by saying this book hit differently because I read it while I was experiencing my own miscarriage over the week I chose to read it. There was something cathartic about the devastation and heartbreak coming through the pages as Abby and Clay traversed the world of infertility while I was experiencing my own similar devastation and heartbreak over my own loss.
This story will rip your heart open and then slowly begin to sew it back together. It is definitely on the heavier side which I think is part of why I loved the light hearted aspect that Malloy and even Clay’s twin brought into the story to break up the heavy moments. I highly recommend reading so long as you go into it knowing that infertility, divorce, and pregnancy are all very strong themes and to hold yourself gently if any or all of those themes are triggering for you. 💗
Thank you so much to Stefanie and her team for the ARC of this beautiful story! I’m sorry my review is a couple days late. I’ve been navigating a lot lately ❤️🩹
🌶️🌶️🌶️
🚒Second chance
💗love after divorce
🚒firefighter MMC
💗Surprise Pregnancy
🚒It’s always been you
💗Mental health rep
🚒 Infertility rep
💗Friends to lovers (again)
🚒Found family
“Some stories don’t burn out - they smolder, waiting for the right moment to ignite again.”
“I would have walked the surface of the sun if it meant she was waiting for me on the other side.”
First off can I just say that Malloy MADE this book for me!! 😂💗 I seriously can’t WAIT for his book.
Ok now seriously…..I have to preface this by saying this book hit differently because I read it while I was experiencing my own miscarriage over the week I chose to read it. There was something cathartic about the devastation and heartbreak coming through the pages as Abby and Clay traversed the world of infertility while I was experiencing my own similar devastation and heartbreak over my own loss.
This story will rip your heart open and then slowly begin to sew it back together. It is definitely on the heavier side which I think is part of why I loved the light hearted aspect that Malloy and even Clay’s twin brought into the story to break up the heavy moments. I highly recommend reading so long as you go into it knowing that infertility, divorce, and pregnancy are all very strong themes and to hold yourself gently if any or all of those themes are triggering for you. 💗
Thank you so much to Stefanie and her team for the ARC of this beautiful story! I’m sorry my review is a couple days late. I’ve been navigating a lot lately ❤️🩹
February 15, 2025
EMBERS IN OUR PAST by Stefanie Castro
This was just what I needed. This was Abby & Clay’s story and it was a second chance romance. This was such an emotionally packed romance. The emotional connection these two had was incredible. The work they both had to get through and work on to get through the hurt. Abby was hurting feeling that she had failed Clay as a woman and a wife si she takes the easy way out in my opinion and ends her marriage. Sure in her mind she thought she es doing the brave right thing but in reality she was taking the easy route and running away. Clay is super hurt by her walking away. The fact that Clay was still able to love Abby regardless of the pain he endured at her hand was amazing I could never yet he is willing to give it his all and do the work which he has been willing to do all along. It was. Great book and one I really enjoyed. Loved Marisa she was super fun and definitely someone everyone could use as a friend. Loved Kennedy she was super fun too and loved her new friendship with Abby and her sister friend relationship with Clay. This is definitely a book I would recommend for sure.
This was just what I needed. This was Abby & Clay’s story and it was a second chance romance. This was such an emotionally packed romance. The emotional connection these two had was incredible. The work they both had to get through and work on to get through the hurt. Abby was hurting feeling that she had failed Clay as a woman and a wife si she takes the easy way out in my opinion and ends her marriage. Sure in her mind she thought she es doing the brave right thing but in reality she was taking the easy route and running away. Clay is super hurt by her walking away. The fact that Clay was still able to love Abby regardless of the pain he endured at her hand was amazing I could never yet he is willing to give it his all and do the work which he has been willing to do all along. It was. Great book and one I really enjoyed. Loved Marisa she was super fun and definitely someone everyone could use as a friend. Loved Kennedy she was super fun too and loved her new friendship with Abby and her sister friend relationship with Clay. This is definitely a book I would recommend for sure.
February 13, 2025
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️{4}
🌶️🌶️🫑{2.5}
This is book 2 in the Boston Embers series! While they are independent standalones, I do think you’d get more from the story if you started out with the first one! This one follows the story of Clay and Abby and was so cute and heartwarming! Their journey as a couple and getting through being unable to conceive and then divorce to finding their way back together as they navigate an accidental pregnancy was lovely! And when they come *𝘵𝘰𝘨𝘦𝘵𝘩𝘦𝘳* again.. 😜😏😮💨🥵 I feel like the sensitive topic of the difficulties that can come with conceiving children was handled so well and I loved the therapy rep so much. I’m DYINGGGG for Malloy’s story next! He’s seriously my fave after this book!
⚠️𝘗𝘭𝘦𝘢𝘴𝘦 𝘣𝘦 𝘮𝘪𝘯𝘥𝘧𝘶𝘭 𝘰𝘧 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘱𝘰𝘴𝘴𝘪𝘣𝘭𝘦 𝘛𝘞 𝘧𝘰𝘳 𝘵𝘩𝘰𝘴𝘦 𝘴𝘵𝘳𝘶𝘨𝘨𝘭𝘪𝘯𝘨 𝘸𝘪𝘵𝘩 𝘧𝘦𝘳𝘵𝘪𝘭𝘪𝘵𝘺, 𝘧𝘶𝘭𝘭 𝘭𝘪𝘴𝘵 𝘰𝘧 𝘤𝘰𝘯𝘵𝘦𝘯𝘵 𝘸𝘢𝘳𝘯𝘪𝘯𝘨𝘴 𝘰𝘯 𝘚𝘵𝘦𝘧𝘢𝘯𝘪𝘦’𝘴 𝘸𝘦𝘣𝘴𝘪𝘵𝘦⚠️
𝓡𝓮𝓪𝓭 𝓲𝓯 𝔂𝓸𝓾 𝓵𝓸𝓿𝓮:
🔥 dual pov
💦 firefighter MMC
🔥 mental health rep
💦 it’s always been you
🔥 love after divorce
💦 surprise pregnancy
🔥 friends to lovers (again!)
𝓕𝓪𝓿𝓸𝓻𝓲𝓽𝓮 𝓺𝓾𝓸𝓽𝓮𝓼:
“𝘌𝘷𝘦𝘯 𝘵𝘩𝘰𝘶𝘨𝘩 𝘐 𝘬𝘯𝘰𝘸 𝘐 𝘯𝘦𝘦𝘥 𝘵𝘰 𝘴𝘵𝘢𝘳𝘵 𝘥𝘢𝘵𝘪𝘯𝘨, 𝘐 𝘥𝘰𝘯’𝘵 𝘸𝘢𝘯𝘵 𝘵𝘰. 𝘐𝘵’𝘴 𝘦𝘹𝘩𝘢𝘶𝘴𝘵𝘪𝘯𝘨, 𝘢𝘯𝘥 𝘐 𝘫𝘶𝘴𝘵 𝘥𝘰𝘯’𝘵 𝘧𝘦𝘦𝘭 𝘭𝘪𝘬𝘦 𝘥𝘰𝘪𝘯𝘨 𝘪𝘵 𝘢𝘨𝘢𝘪𝘯. 𝘐 𝘩𝘢𝘵𝘦 𝘨𝘰𝘪𝘯𝘨 𝘰𝘯 𝘥𝘢𝘵𝘦𝘴 𝘢𝘯𝘥 𝘱𝘰𝘴𝘴𝘪𝘣𝘭𝘺 𝘦𝘯𝘥𝘶𝘳𝘪𝘯𝘨 𝘸𝘦𝘪𝘳𝘥 𝘴𝘪𝘭𝘦𝘯𝘤𝘦𝘴.”
“𝘈𝘭𝘴𝘰, 𝘳𝘦𝘨𝘢𝘳𝘥𝘪𝘯𝘨 𝘺𝘰𝘶 𝘣𝘦𝘪𝘯𝘨 𝘮𝘺 𝘨𝘪𝘳𝘭.. 𝘠𝘰𝘶 𝘸𝘪𝘭𝘭 𝘢𝘭𝘸𝘢𝘺𝘴 𝘣𝘦 𝘮𝘪𝘯𝘦. 𝘋𝘰𝘯’𝘵 𝘧𝘰𝘳𝘨𝘦𝘵 𝘸𝘩𝘰𝘴𝘦 𝘣𝘢𝘣𝘺 𝘺𝘰𝘶’𝘳𝘦 𝘤𝘢𝘳𝘳𝘺𝘪𝘯𝘨, 𝘴𝘸𝘦𝘦𝘵𝘩𝘦𝘢𝘳𝘵.”
“𝘓𝘪𝘧𝘦 𝘪𝘴 𝘵𝘰𝘰 𝘴𝘩𝘰𝘳𝘵 𝘧𝘰𝘳 𝘵𝘩𝘪𝘴 𝘱𝘦𝘵𝘵𝘺 𝘥𝘳𝘢𝘮𝘢.”
🌶️🌶️🫑{2.5}
This is book 2 in the Boston Embers series! While they are independent standalones, I do think you’d get more from the story if you started out with the first one! This one follows the story of Clay and Abby and was so cute and heartwarming! Their journey as a couple and getting through being unable to conceive and then divorce to finding their way back together as they navigate an accidental pregnancy was lovely! And when they come *𝘵𝘰𝘨𝘦𝘵𝘩𝘦𝘳* again.. 😜😏😮💨🥵 I feel like the sensitive topic of the difficulties that can come with conceiving children was handled so well and I loved the therapy rep so much. I’m DYINGGGG for Malloy’s story next! He’s seriously my fave after this book!
⚠️𝘗𝘭𝘦𝘢𝘴𝘦 𝘣𝘦 𝘮𝘪𝘯𝘥𝘧𝘶𝘭 𝘰𝘧 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘱𝘰𝘴𝘴𝘪𝘣𝘭𝘦 𝘛𝘞 𝘧𝘰𝘳 𝘵𝘩𝘰𝘴𝘦 𝘴𝘵𝘳𝘶𝘨𝘨𝘭𝘪𝘯𝘨 𝘸𝘪𝘵𝘩 𝘧𝘦𝘳𝘵𝘪𝘭𝘪𝘵𝘺, 𝘧𝘶𝘭𝘭 𝘭𝘪𝘴𝘵 𝘰𝘧 𝘤𝘰𝘯𝘵𝘦𝘯𝘵 𝘸𝘢𝘳𝘯𝘪𝘯𝘨𝘴 𝘰𝘯 𝘚𝘵𝘦𝘧𝘢𝘯𝘪𝘦’𝘴 𝘸𝘦𝘣𝘴𝘪𝘵𝘦⚠️
𝓡𝓮𝓪𝓭 𝓲𝓯 𝔂𝓸𝓾 𝓵𝓸𝓿𝓮:
🔥 dual pov
💦 firefighter MMC
🔥 mental health rep
💦 it’s always been you
🔥 love after divorce
💦 surprise pregnancy
🔥 friends to lovers (again!)
𝓕𝓪𝓿𝓸𝓻𝓲𝓽𝓮 𝓺𝓾𝓸𝓽𝓮𝓼:
“𝘌𝘷𝘦𝘯 𝘵𝘩𝘰𝘶𝘨𝘩 𝘐 𝘬𝘯𝘰𝘸 𝘐 𝘯𝘦𝘦𝘥 𝘵𝘰 𝘴𝘵𝘢𝘳𝘵 𝘥𝘢𝘵𝘪𝘯𝘨, 𝘐 𝘥𝘰𝘯’𝘵 𝘸𝘢𝘯𝘵 𝘵𝘰. 𝘐𝘵’𝘴 𝘦𝘹𝘩𝘢𝘶𝘴𝘵𝘪𝘯𝘨, 𝘢𝘯𝘥 𝘐 𝘫𝘶𝘴𝘵 𝘥𝘰𝘯’𝘵 𝘧𝘦𝘦𝘭 𝘭𝘪𝘬𝘦 𝘥𝘰𝘪𝘯𝘨 𝘪𝘵 𝘢𝘨𝘢𝘪𝘯. 𝘐 𝘩𝘢𝘵𝘦 𝘨𝘰𝘪𝘯𝘨 𝘰𝘯 𝘥𝘢𝘵𝘦𝘴 𝘢𝘯𝘥 𝘱𝘰𝘴𝘴𝘪𝘣𝘭𝘺 𝘦𝘯𝘥𝘶𝘳𝘪𝘯𝘨 𝘸𝘦𝘪𝘳𝘥 𝘴𝘪𝘭𝘦𝘯𝘤𝘦𝘴.”
“𝘈𝘭𝘴𝘰, 𝘳𝘦𝘨𝘢𝘳𝘥𝘪𝘯𝘨 𝘺𝘰𝘶 𝘣𝘦𝘪𝘯𝘨 𝘮𝘺 𝘨𝘪𝘳𝘭.. 𝘠𝘰𝘶 𝘸𝘪𝘭𝘭 𝘢𝘭𝘸𝘢𝘺𝘴 𝘣𝘦 𝘮𝘪𝘯𝘦. 𝘋𝘰𝘯’𝘵 𝘧𝘰𝘳𝘨𝘦𝘵 𝘸𝘩𝘰𝘴𝘦 𝘣𝘢𝘣𝘺 𝘺𝘰𝘶’𝘳𝘦 𝘤𝘢𝘳𝘳𝘺𝘪𝘯𝘨, 𝘴𝘸𝘦𝘦𝘵𝘩𝘦𝘢𝘳𝘵.”
“𝘓𝘪𝘧𝘦 𝘪𝘴 𝘵𝘰𝘰 𝘴𝘩𝘰𝘳𝘵 𝘧𝘰𝘳 𝘵𝘩𝘪𝘴 𝘱𝘦𝘵𝘵𝘺 𝘥𝘳𝘢𝘮𝘢.”
February 4, 2025
Arc review!✨
I’m so happy I got this as an arc! This was soo good! I started reading it and immediately couldn’t put it down. I read it all in 3 or 4 hours??
I love that it talks about the struggles of IVF and what women go through. Abby’s character development was great and I love the way she ended up. I wish Clay would have went after Abby but glad they still worked out!! Overall I really enjoyed the book and can’t wait to read more by Stefanie! Also hope that Tucker & Baylee get their happy ending too🥹💚
I’m so happy I got this as an arc! This was soo good! I started reading it and immediately couldn’t put it down. I read it all in 3 or 4 hours??
I love that it talks about the struggles of IVF and what women go through. Abby’s character development was great and I love the way she ended up. I wish Clay would have went after Abby but glad they still worked out!! Overall I really enjoyed the book and can’t wait to read more by Stefanie! Also hope that Tucker & Baylee get their happy ending too🥹💚
February 5, 2025
This second chance romance was so good!! Clay & Abby’s relationship & struggles were emotional to follow. A sincere story of love, loss, and the fight to come back to happiness. I felt deeply for both of them throughout the whole book. The devotion to what they thought was best was a beautiful thing to behold (even if they were wrong a lot of the time). I am happy they got this second chance at forever, it's what they deserved. Stefani did an amazing job capturing the depth of this relationship in such a way that felt raw & true. Thank you for sharing this with us!
February 6, 2025
A second chance at love for Clay and Abby. This book dives into some heavy topics so be sure to check trigger warnings before reading! A Beautiful story of a heartbroken and tired couple. Abby pushes Clay away so he could have a chance at everything he’s always wanted, the dream they wanted together that Abby doesn’t think will ever happen. A year or so later Clay is out at a bar with his brother & friends when Abby happens to walk in on the arm of a firefighter. Obviously even with time those feelings are still there. Their second chance at love is emotional but beautiful!
February 7, 2025
5 ⭐️
I have been loving my firefighter books lately 😍😩👏 I am in absolute love with sweet man clay 🥺 I also love Abby. I love the second chance they had, and it really felt like fate brought them together again, and that seems to always be a factor in this series (in my opinion) because the first of the series had me SOBBING with fate bringing clay’s brother & his wife together 😩 (their book is embers in the outfield) 💘 I love Abby & clay, and I think this shows real life stuff that happens, especially with the infertility aspect. I love that they found their way back and got their hea 🥺💘
I have been loving my firefighter books lately 😍😩👏 I am in absolute love with sweet man clay 🥺 I also love Abby. I love the second chance they had, and it really felt like fate brought them together again, and that seems to always be a factor in this series (in my opinion) because the first of the series had me SOBBING with fate bringing clay’s brother & his wife together 😩 (their book is embers in the outfield) 💘 I love Abby & clay, and I think this shows real life stuff that happens, especially with the infertility aspect. I love that they found their way back and got their hea 🥺💘
February 3, 2025
ARC REVIEW ✨ 4.5⭐️ this one hit home. Being my spouse is a firefighter and we’ve known each other since we were kids. Clay & Abby’s love was real. I love second chance romances. I know what it is like struggling with fertility having multiple MCs but being told you only have a 5% chance of getting pregnant must be tough. They were able to overcome this hardship and find their love back to each other. I absolutely loveeeee River and Kennedy! And cannot wait for Mallory’s story.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
February 5, 2025
I’ll give this book a solid 4 stars. The reason Abby divorced clay was….absurd. Luckily for her, he was still obsessed with his ex wife. This book touches on infertility and the struggles in marriage that can come along with that. This book was raw, real and emotional. Clay and Abby were truly soul mates who never stopped loving each other. The way they rekindled their failed marriage was beautiful. Thank you TAA for the early e copy to read and review!
February 6, 2025
4 ⭐️| 2 🌶️
Clay and Abby’s story is a raw tale about the struggles of love ❤️, marriage 💍, infertility 🤰, divorce 💔, pregnancy 👶, and the eventual rekindling of a love they thought was lost. It also has an amazing plot with a found family and the deep bonds that form through life’s challenges 🤗. This beautifully written narrative addresses many sensitive issues, so be sure to check for trigger warnings ⚠️
Clay and Abby’s story is a raw tale about the struggles of love ❤️, marriage 💍, infertility 🤰, divorce 💔, pregnancy 👶, and the eventual rekindling of a love they thought was lost. It also has an amazing plot with a found family and the deep bonds that form through life’s challenges 🤗. This beautifully written narrative addresses many sensitive issues, so be sure to check for trigger warnings ⚠️
February 6, 2025
ARC Review — What an emotional story. Abby and Clay were meant to be together no matter their past and troubles. I loved how the story touched on troubles through marriage and infertility. I really wish it gave more background as who the previous life of Abby and Clay. Yes, it was told they were destined to be together but why? Super glad they got their happy ending. Solid 4 star.
Thank you TAA and Stefanie Castro for the ARC opportunity!
Thank you TAA and Stefanie Castro for the ARC opportunity!
February 8, 2025
This heartwarming and heartbreaking tale of love, loss, second chances, and the struggles that must be faced was one heck of a read. It doesn’t start out slow it jumps straight in and not letting up until the very end. Clay steals my heart as he doesn’t want to give up , he loves Abby so much he doesn’t want to let her go. Abby going through her own struggles unsure if she is doing what’s best by Clay and herself. The second chance these two get is perfect and I absolutely loved the story.
February 7, 2025
This book changed my views on some tropes I normally don’t enjoy, it was that good! I really enjoyed Clay and Abby’s story. Very complex characters and written so well! Once I started, I didn’t want it to end! Can’t wait to read more in the series!
I received an advance copy of Embers in Our Past, all opinions are my own.
I received an advance copy of Embers in Our Past, all opinions are my own.
February 8, 2025
this book played with all of my heartstrings but it was beyond perfect! Abby and Clay go through so much it breaks them but they never stopped loving each other. Their story really hits on the sometimes it just not the right time and the future is forever changing. I cried and laughed during this book because I could truly feel what they were going through and man was it good!
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