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Brightwater #1
Lessons in Love
I want nothing to do with my reclusive, scarred neighbor—but an unexpected deal forces us together.
I don’t have a plan—just a backpack, a bus ticket, and the desperate need to put a few hundred miles between me and my ex-husband. Fate sends me to the picturesque small town of Brightwater, Oregon. The bacon burgers are delicious, and the landladies are kind, but no money, no high school diploma, and a scorned ex hot on my heels make this fresh start an uphill battle.
And then there’s Quentin Avery, a scarred high school teacher who lives next door. A veteran, handsome in the brooding kind of way, but arrogant and rude as hell.
He keeps to himself, which is fine by me because I have no interest in getting to know him. I have enough on my plate already and no time for entanglements.
Problems start when my new boss demands I get my high school diploma by the end of the year.
Our landlady has her heart in the right place, but she has this weird idea that Quentin and I would make a great couple, and she ropes us into a tutoring arrangement neither of us wants.
Now I have to deal with this obnoxious know-it-all once a week. He’s supposed to help me pass my exam, and I have to admit he’s a pretty good teacher, so why can’t I focus more on the study materials and less on his intense amber eyes or the way my heart skips a beat every time our hands touch?
A medium spicy slow burn dislike-to-lovers small town romance with an HEA, set in Oregon. Book one of the Brightwater series, but can be read as a standalone.
I don’t have a plan—just a backpack, a bus ticket, and the desperate need to put a few hundred miles between me and my ex-husband. Fate sends me to the picturesque small town of Brightwater, Oregon. The bacon burgers are delicious, and the landladies are kind, but no money, no high school diploma, and a scorned ex hot on my heels make this fresh start an uphill battle.
And then there’s Quentin Avery, a scarred high school teacher who lives next door. A veteran, handsome in the brooding kind of way, but arrogant and rude as hell.
He keeps to himself, which is fine by me because I have no interest in getting to know him. I have enough on my plate already and no time for entanglements.
Problems start when my new boss demands I get my high school diploma by the end of the year.
Our landlady has her heart in the right place, but she has this weird idea that Quentin and I would make a great couple, and she ropes us into a tutoring arrangement neither of us wants.
Now I have to deal with this obnoxious know-it-all once a week. He’s supposed to help me pass my exam, and I have to admit he’s a pretty good teacher, so why can’t I focus more on the study materials and less on his intense amber eyes or the way my heart skips a beat every time our hands touch?
A medium spicy slow burn dislike-to-lovers small town romance with an HEA, set in Oregon. Book one of the Brightwater series, but can be read as a standalone.
- GenresRomance
288 pages, Kindle Edition
Published October 7, 2024
9 people are currently reading
127 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 175 reviews
October 7, 2024
This was a 2.5⭐️ for me.
I received an advanced copy and these are my thoughts:
This story had a lot of potential but I didn’t love it as much as I would have liked.
The story revolves around Kelsey, a woman who runs away from an abusive relationship and ends up becoming the neighbour of a war veteran, who was injured in combat and severely scarred. Their initial animosity turns to friendship and eventually, they fall in love.
The premises was promising but the characters - especially Kelsey, could have done with a little more development. She felt immature and made some regrettable decisions - what she said to Quentin was just not nice. She might not have liked the truth he was telling her, but there was no need to be cruel.
Quentin was the best character in this story. He had a hard time trusting people and I felt so sorry for him when Kelsey hurt him. At least he made her wait a while before he decided to forgive her.
I feel the story could have done with some more editing. Since this is the author’s debut, I would be curious to see how her writing evolves in her coming books.
I received an advanced copy and these are my thoughts:
This story had a lot of potential but I didn’t love it as much as I would have liked.
The story revolves around Kelsey, a woman who runs away from an abusive relationship and ends up becoming the neighbour of a war veteran, who was injured in combat and severely scarred. Their initial animosity turns to friendship and eventually, they fall in love.
The premises was promising but the characters - especially Kelsey, could have done with a little more development. She felt immature and made some regrettable decisions - what she said to Quentin was just not nice. She might not have liked the truth he was telling her, but there was no need to be cruel.
Quentin was the best character in this story. He had a hard time trusting people and I felt so sorry for him when Kelsey hurt him. At least he made her wait a while before he decided to forgive her.
I feel the story could have done with some more editing. Since this is the author’s debut, I would be curious to see how her writing evolves in her coming books.
Read
October 11, 2024official DNF at like 78%
I tried to get through this one. I realllly like Quentin, but Kelsey’s choices at this point in the book blew my mind. I couldn’t get behind it. Aside from these actions that I’m not quite sure how you come back from with 20% left but the grammar and errors were astounding.
I truly believe if this was edited better, I could finish it and possibly enjoy it. But until then I just couldn’t do it.
I tried to get through this one. I realllly like Quentin, but Kelsey’s choices at this point in the book blew my mind. I couldn’t get behind it. Aside from these actions that I’m not quite sure how you come back from with 20% left but the grammar and errors were astounding.
I truly believe if this was edited better, I could finish it and possibly enjoy it. But until then I just couldn’t do it.
September 26, 2024
I requested this expecting to love it. The cover is gorgeous and the premise had tons of potential. But unfortunately I had some issues with this book.
The FMC Kelsey is extremely rude to the eventual MMC Quentin in a way that is hard to forgive and not challenged enough in my opinion (I am okay with unlikeable heroines that have some things to learn but she says some of these things about his appearance wayyy too late in the game). Honestly I found everyone’s reactions to Quentin not accurate to real life.
This FMC is 34 but I really think should have been aged way down. Her voice is extremely young and not just in a sheltered naive way from how her husband treated her she just really doesn’t seem to me like someone who has 10 years of married life experience.
This has quite a bit of insta-love. I was honestly so shocked because a lot of the relationship building is off page which is so sad because that’s what I read romance for.
And yet with all that supposed love the 3rd act conflict went a bit too far in my opinion. I didn’t feel the portrayal of DV was given the gravity it deserved. I felt that some side characters in those moments were just chess pieces to move around and not acting like how actual real people would. Plus again the FMC said some unforgivable things.
There were also some plot holes that if that was all and I otherwise enjoyed the story I could overlook but all these added up for this rating. Some plot holes included her wanting to go to college before having kids (which would take over 5 years because she’s on the part time track, you can of course have children nearing 40 but she’s been wanting kids and multiple since like age 20 so why would she wait that long?), non-US phrasing used like sports “match” and multiple “knackered”s, and the FMC is somewhere for 2 days but later it’s referenced as a week. Again, these are things I can ignore but I also had the above characterization and plot issues as well.
Thank you to the author for this eARC. I appreciate the opportunity.
The FMC Kelsey is extremely rude to the eventual MMC Quentin in a way that is hard to forgive and not challenged enough in my opinion (I am okay with unlikeable heroines that have some things to learn but she says some of these things about his appearance wayyy too late in the game). Honestly I found everyone’s reactions to Quentin not accurate to real life.
This FMC is 34 but I really think should have been aged way down. Her voice is extremely young and not just in a sheltered naive way from how her husband treated her she just really doesn’t seem to me like someone who has 10 years of married life experience.
This has quite a bit of insta-love. I was honestly so shocked because a lot of the relationship building is off page which is so sad because that’s what I read romance for.
And yet with all that supposed love the 3rd act conflict went a bit too far in my opinion. I didn’t feel the portrayal of DV was given the gravity it deserved. I felt that some side characters in those moments were just chess pieces to move around and not acting like how actual real people would. Plus again the FMC said some unforgivable things.
There were also some plot holes that if that was all and I otherwise enjoyed the story I could overlook but all these added up for this rating. Some plot holes included her wanting to go to college before having kids (which would take over 5 years because she’s on the part time track, you can of course have children nearing 40 but she’s been wanting kids and multiple since like age 20 so why would she wait that long?), non-US phrasing used like sports “match” and multiple “knackered”s, and the FMC is somewhere for 2 days but later it’s referenced as a week. Again, these are things I can ignore but I also had the above characterization and plot issues as well.
Thank you to the author for this eARC. I appreciate the opportunity.
September 28, 2024
Kelsey is running away from her old life as a housewife to an abusive husband. In need of a fresh start, she decides to settle in the small Oregon town of Brightwater. Kelsey finds housing in the town and moves in next to Quentin, her high-school teacher neighbour whose very guarded and has had a past he keeps to himself. Kelsey finds herself in need of work however, without her diploma, she is unwanted. When the owner at the local diner gives her a shot, it comes with the condition of completing her GED. It's been over a decade Kelsey has been in school, where does she even start? She decides to ask Quentin for his help in this new challenge in her life. Will the teaching agenda stay in school lessons or will they discover Lessons in Love?
.
Kelsey's character growth was truly a saviour for this read. When we first start reading this novel, we see a woman who has never known anything in her life expect for a forced agenda from an abusive husband. She comes from a past where it wasn't an easy upbringing and she truly is lost in her life. Due to this, she's incredibly impulsive and no-filter but in the worse possible ways. As she learns more about herself and how to stand-up for herself, she grows and is more confident in herself. Quentin is extremely reserved, for all the right reasons and him finding Kelsey brings out the best in him. These two work so well as a couple because they help each other grow. Great and easy read from Sybil Kelton and can't wait for the next novel!
Favourite Chapter: n/a
Favourite Quote: "I thought I had loved Ryan when I married him, but in hindsight, I realized that was mere infatuation - with him and with the promises he'd made. Loving Quentin was entirely different. He was my safe haven. My home. My lover, my biggest supporter, and my best friend."
.
Kelsey's character growth was truly a saviour for this read. When we first start reading this novel, we see a woman who has never known anything in her life expect for a forced agenda from an abusive husband. She comes from a past where it wasn't an easy upbringing and she truly is lost in her life. Due to this, she's incredibly impulsive and no-filter but in the worse possible ways. As she learns more about herself and how to stand-up for herself, she grows and is more confident in herself. Quentin is extremely reserved, for all the right reasons and him finding Kelsey brings out the best in him. These two work so well as a couple because they help each other grow. Great and easy read from Sybil Kelton and can't wait for the next novel!
Favourite Chapter: n/a
Favourite Quote: "I thought I had loved Ryan when I married him, but in hindsight, I realized that was mere infatuation - with him and with the promises he'd made. Loving Quentin was entirely different. He was my safe haven. My home. My lover, my biggest supporter, and my best friend."
October 8, 2024
#Review: *Lessons in Love* - ARC - Sybil Kelton [16+]
4.6/5✨
1/5🌶️
Another book I've randomly found on Instagram🤭. I was lucky to be accepted by Sybil Kelton to receive an e-ARC and I need to thank her for this awesome opportunity!
Kelsey has concluded that her glass was full of her husband's continuous criticism and mockery. He never believed in her and always treated her like a slave, always to be available for everything he wishes. That's why Kelsey is now on her way to an unknown destination, where she can rebuild her life without having that constant reminder that she isn't enough.
She ends up far away from home, in Brightwater, Oregon where she meets the right people to help her settle in. A big part in this story will be played by the old lady, Arlene, who will rent her an apartment. She had the greatest personality and always got her way with things, even with Kelsey 🤭- she considered herself the best matchmaker.
Quentin is one of Kesley's neighbors and also a teacher. He will help Kelsey with something very important to her and this will bring them closer. But Quentin had so many struggles with his own body, because he had many burning scars, which weren't the most eye pleasing parts of him. In spite of this, Kesley was still very attracted to this grumpy, mysterious, scared man. But would he be confident enough to make her his and keep her close to him, especially when her past is constantly lurking in? This is something you'll find out by reading this book.
Overall, it was a beautiful book, from which you can definitely learn some things and see how bad one life can be, if you're not choosing the right man and friends with whom to spend the life with. It's about discovering yourself and how strong one person can be if they spread their wings.
✨Tropes:
#StrangersToLovers
#TorturedLead
#CloseProximity
#Neighbors
#HeFallsFirst
#SoulMates
4.6/5✨
1/5🌶️
Another book I've randomly found on Instagram🤭. I was lucky to be accepted by Sybil Kelton to receive an e-ARC and I need to thank her for this awesome opportunity!
Kelsey has concluded that her glass was full of her husband's continuous criticism and mockery. He never believed in her and always treated her like a slave, always to be available for everything he wishes. That's why Kelsey is now on her way to an unknown destination, where she can rebuild her life without having that constant reminder that she isn't enough.
She ends up far away from home, in Brightwater, Oregon where she meets the right people to help her settle in. A big part in this story will be played by the old lady, Arlene, who will rent her an apartment. She had the greatest personality and always got her way with things, even with Kelsey 🤭- she considered herself the best matchmaker.
Quentin is one of Kesley's neighbors and also a teacher. He will help Kelsey with something very important to her and this will bring them closer. But Quentin had so many struggles with his own body, because he had many burning scars, which weren't the most eye pleasing parts of him. In spite of this, Kesley was still very attracted to this grumpy, mysterious, scared man. But would he be confident enough to make her his and keep her close to him, especially when her past is constantly lurking in? This is something you'll find out by reading this book.
Overall, it was a beautiful book, from which you can definitely learn some things and see how bad one life can be, if you're not choosing the right man and friends with whom to spend the life with. It's about discovering yourself and how strong one person can be if they spread their wings.
✨Tropes:
#StrangersToLovers
#TorturedLead
#CloseProximity
#Neighbors
#HeFallsFirst
#SoulMates
September 28, 2024
Thank you to the author, Sybil Kelton, for an ARC copy of this book in exchange for my honest review.
It’s clear that Sybil has a talent for writing and has a lot of potential, but this story just felt a little unpolished. The premise was good and the overall cast of characters was rounded out fairly well, but I think this book tried to do a lot in not a lot of pages. I would have liked to see this story split into 2 books spending more time on the protagonists character development to give the story more depth. Our FMC, Kelsey, just came across as flaky and she was honestly just downright mean to Quentin for a good portion of this book, which was a hard pill to swallow.
The book itself is entertaining, but I just wish we lingered for a little longer in the different phases of the relationship between Kelsey and Quentin - it would have been more satisfying to spend more time as enemies then have them slowly come to realize their feelings for each other rather than shoving them together with insta love.
I’m interested in seeing how this author grows her skills and what she produces next as I think she laid a solid foundation with this book.
It’s clear that Sybil has a talent for writing and has a lot of potential, but this story just felt a little unpolished. The premise was good and the overall cast of characters was rounded out fairly well, but I think this book tried to do a lot in not a lot of pages. I would have liked to see this story split into 2 books spending more time on the protagonists character development to give the story more depth. Our FMC, Kelsey, just came across as flaky and she was honestly just downright mean to Quentin for a good portion of this book, which was a hard pill to swallow.
The book itself is entertaining, but I just wish we lingered for a little longer in the different phases of the relationship between Kelsey and Quentin - it would have been more satisfying to spend more time as enemies then have them slowly come to realize their feelings for each other rather than shoving them together with insta love.
I’m interested in seeing how this author grows her skills and what she produces next as I think she laid a solid foundation with this book.
November 6, 2024
A story about overcoming the past and finding love in unexpected ways.
Kelsey moves to Brightwater to escape the shadows of a toxic marriage. Without a high school diploma, she soon realizes just how challenging life can be—especially when her boss insists she get her GED. Feeling she’s hit rock bottom, Kelsey reluctantly turns to her new neighbor, Quentin, for help. Their first encounter is anything but friendly, yet he becomes her only solution. Quentin, a veteran of Afghanistan, is scarred inside and out. Forced into tutoring his new neighbor by his lovely landlord, he finds his patience tested in unexpected ways.
Rating: 💜• 🫦
🌟 This debut novel was beautifully crafted, focusing not only on romance but also on the powerful journeys of self-love and self-discovery for both Kelsey and Quentin. The dual POV allowed each character’s growth and struggles to unfold in a genuine way before they finally came together. Despite a few minor typos, Lessons in Love wrapped me in the charm of its small-town setting. Kelsey’s actions sometimes frustrated me, but the groveling and the hard-earned lessons made up for it beautifully. Her backstory and relationship with a narcissist were portrayed with authenticity. And Quentin? His resilience and gentle nature were truly moving—he’s the type of character you want to protect! (As for Ryan—no comment; let’s just say, I hate him!)
🪷 And yes, true to form, I cried! The rawness and emotional intensity of Sybil’s writing created a deep, realistic connection between Kelsey and Quentin. Their relationship developed with patience and understanding, along with a few missteps, making it all feel incredibly genuine. Kelsey’s harsh words to Quentin stung real bad, and I still want to protect him (still mad at her to be honest). There were moments that made me swoon and others that had me reaching for tissues!
🍃 Heartfelt, reflective, inspiring
📖 “Why do you have this?” “I like looking at it.” I raised an eyebrow. “You like looking at us at a baseball game?” “Not us. You.” “You do?” “Of course. You’re beautiful.”
Kelsey moves to Brightwater to escape the shadows of a toxic marriage. Without a high school diploma, she soon realizes just how challenging life can be—especially when her boss insists she get her GED. Feeling she’s hit rock bottom, Kelsey reluctantly turns to her new neighbor, Quentin, for help. Their first encounter is anything but friendly, yet he becomes her only solution. Quentin, a veteran of Afghanistan, is scarred inside and out. Forced into tutoring his new neighbor by his lovely landlord, he finds his patience tested in unexpected ways.
Rating: 💜• 🫦
🌟 This debut novel was beautifully crafted, focusing not only on romance but also on the powerful journeys of self-love and self-discovery for both Kelsey and Quentin. The dual POV allowed each character’s growth and struggles to unfold in a genuine way before they finally came together. Despite a few minor typos, Lessons in Love wrapped me in the charm of its small-town setting. Kelsey’s actions sometimes frustrated me, but the groveling and the hard-earned lessons made up for it beautifully. Her backstory and relationship with a narcissist were portrayed with authenticity. And Quentin? His resilience and gentle nature were truly moving—he’s the type of character you want to protect! (As for Ryan—no comment; let’s just say, I hate him!)
🪷 And yes, true to form, I cried! The rawness and emotional intensity of Sybil’s writing created a deep, realistic connection between Kelsey and Quentin. Their relationship developed with patience and understanding, along with a few missteps, making it all feel incredibly genuine. Kelsey’s harsh words to Quentin stung real bad, and I still want to protect him (still mad at her to be honest). There were moments that made me swoon and others that had me reaching for tissues!
🍃 Heartfelt, reflective, inspiring
📖 “Why do you have this?” “I like looking at it.” I raised an eyebrow. “You like looking at us at a baseball game?” “Not us. You.” “You do?” “Of course. You’re beautiful.”
September 26, 2024
2.5 ⭐️
I usually enjoy a fast-paced story, but sadly, in this case, it had the characters and storyline all over the place. At times, it also felt that it focused more on other stuff rather than the main characters and their relationship, which I still don’t know how I feel about…
There's so much the story had to work with in regards to angst. I mean a scarred, ex war veteran mmc whose life only revolves around work and helping his mother, and a fmc that’s starting over in her 30's after leaving her toxic (soon to be) ex husband. It had a lot going for it but fell flat in most aspects.
I adored Quentin. I think he deserved a lot better than Kelsey because her uncalled for and mean outbursts made her a very unlikeable character. Her actions gave me a bit of whiplash, especially with the drama nearing the end; it was completely unnecessary and just made her seem like the biggest bit*h. What she said to Quentin was just so out of pocket that I was sitting there in total disbelief at how easily she gave up as well when there was no indication of doubt about how she felt about her husband.
I just feel that the things that needed to be focused on more were entirely neglected.
The beauty and heartache behind the story were there. It was just completely lost between the rushed writing, one dimensional characters, and surface level writing. I understand where the author was going, but the structuring needed a lot more attention for this to tickle my fancy. It's not the worst by any means for a debut! I did want to know how it will all play out in the end, I just think there needs to be a lot more editing regarding the character context and a not so rushed direction could've added much more depth to the story.
what you can expect:
• small town
• slow burn
• scarred hero
• forced proximity
• next-door neighbors
• fund family
• tutoring
*𝘵𝘩𝘢𝘯𝘬 𝘺𝘰𝘶 𝘵𝘰 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘢𝘶𝘵𝘩𝘰𝘳 𝘧𝘰𝘳 𝘱𝘳𝘰𝘷𝘪𝘥𝘪𝘯𝘨 𝘮𝘦 𝘸𝘪𝘵𝘩 𝘢𝘯 𝘦-𝘢𝘳𝘤 𝘪𝘯 𝘦𝘹𝘤𝘩𝘢𝘯𝘨𝘦 𝘧𝘰𝘳 𝘢𝘯 𝘩𝘰𝘯𝘦𝘴𝘵 𝘳𝘦𝘷𝘪𝘦𝘸*
I usually enjoy a fast-paced story, but sadly, in this case, it had the characters and storyline all over the place. At times, it also felt that it focused more on other stuff rather than the main characters and their relationship, which I still don’t know how I feel about…
There's so much the story had to work with in regards to angst. I mean a scarred, ex war veteran mmc whose life only revolves around work and helping his mother, and a fmc that’s starting over in her 30's after leaving her toxic (soon to be) ex husband. It had a lot going for it but fell flat in most aspects.
I adored Quentin. I think he deserved a lot better than Kelsey because her uncalled for and mean outbursts made her a very unlikeable character. Her actions gave me a bit of whiplash, especially with the drama nearing the end; it was completely unnecessary and just made her seem like the biggest bit*h. What she said to Quentin was just so out of pocket that I was sitting there in total disbelief at how easily she gave up as well when there was no indication of doubt about how she felt about her husband.
I just feel that the things that needed to be focused on more were entirely neglected.
The beauty and heartache behind the story were there. It was just completely lost between the rushed writing, one dimensional characters, and surface level writing. I understand where the author was going, but the structuring needed a lot more attention for this to tickle my fancy. It's not the worst by any means for a debut! I did want to know how it will all play out in the end, I just think there needs to be a lot more editing regarding the character context and a not so rushed direction could've added much more depth to the story.
what you can expect:
• small town
• slow burn
• scarred hero
• forced proximity
• next-door neighbors
• fund family
• tutoring
*𝘵𝘩𝘢𝘯𝘬 𝘺𝘰𝘶 𝘵𝘰 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘢𝘶𝘵𝘩𝘰𝘳 𝘧𝘰𝘳 𝘱𝘳𝘰𝘷𝘪𝘥𝘪𝘯𝘨 𝘮𝘦 𝘸𝘪𝘵𝘩 𝘢𝘯 𝘦-𝘢𝘳𝘤 𝘪𝘯 𝘦𝘹𝘤𝘩𝘢𝘯𝘨𝘦 𝘧𝘰𝘳 𝘢𝘯 𝘩𝘰𝘯𝘦𝘴𝘵 𝘳𝘦𝘷𝘪𝘦𝘸*
October 7, 2024
This was an arc giving to me by the author. It was a beautiful read, the story was powerful and it shown personal growth and strength. If you love small town romance and a personal connection in some ways this is for you
September 27, 2024
Kelsey decides to leave her abusive husband and settle in the small town of Brightwater. There she meets her handsome and annoying neighbor, Quentin, who is also the local high school teacher. She starts working as a waitress, but her boss finds out she doesn't have a GED diploma and her only solution is to ask Quentin for help. They start as enemies, but spending time together turns them into friends...and, after a while, into lovers.
Kelsey's development as a character within the story was perfect. After so many years under her husband's abuse, she finally decided to take her life in her own hands. She deserves to be happy and to be loved. With the help of Quentin, she blooms like a flower. Even though he was annoying to her in the beginning, with time she saw how gentle Quentin was. Under all those layers, there was a good and caring man, capable of love and being loved. His scars weren't only on the outside, they were deep within him. Kelsey coming into his life was the best thing that happened to him.
There were some things that I didn't agree with when it comes to Kelsey's decision-making, but thankfully she fixed those mistakes on time.
I love small town stories and I really enjoyed reading "Lessons in Love".
***I received an ARC from the author and my review is given voluntarily***.
Kelsey's development as a character within the story was perfect. After so many years under her husband's abuse, she finally decided to take her life in her own hands. She deserves to be happy and to be loved. With the help of Quentin, she blooms like a flower. Even though he was annoying to her in the beginning, with time she saw how gentle Quentin was. Under all those layers, there was a good and caring man, capable of love and being loved. His scars weren't only on the outside, they were deep within him. Kelsey coming into his life was the best thing that happened to him.
There were some things that I didn't agree with when it comes to Kelsey's decision-making, but thankfully she fixed those mistakes on time.
I love small town stories and I really enjoyed reading "Lessons in Love".
***I received an ARC from the author and my review is given voluntarily***.
October 7, 2024
Kelsey runs away from her abusive husband and tries to start over in a new town. She gets a job at the local diner but in order to keep it, she needs to get her GED because she never finished high school. She gets set up with her next door neighbor & local high school teacher, Quentin, for tutoring sessions. Quentin is a war veteran, who sustained burns to his face & body, and keeps to himself.
This was a sweet story of Kelsey and Quentin each helping each other to lower their guards, be vulnerable and find real love. They dislike each other at first but with each interaction, the coldness between them slowly starts to melt away. Kelsey doesn't think Quentin is attracted to her because she has little to offer & Quentin thinks there's no way a beautiful girl like her would go for him. Little do they know, they're each falling head over heels for each other. I think this story was beautifully written. There were so many sweet interactions between Kelsey and Quentin & I couldn't wait for them to finally get together. It made me chuckle at times, and it was also super swoony, which I love in a book! If you like small towns, drama, slow burns & a HEA, I highly recommend picking this up. Thank you to Sybil for sending me an advanced reader copy for review.
This was a sweet story of Kelsey and Quentin each helping each other to lower their guards, be vulnerable and find real love. They dislike each other at first but with each interaction, the coldness between them slowly starts to melt away. Kelsey doesn't think Quentin is attracted to her because she has little to offer & Quentin thinks there's no way a beautiful girl like her would go for him. Little do they know, they're each falling head over heels for each other. I think this story was beautifully written. There were so many sweet interactions between Kelsey and Quentin & I couldn't wait for them to finally get together. It made me chuckle at times, and it was also super swoony, which I love in a book! If you like small towns, drama, slow burns & a HEA, I highly recommend picking this up. Thank you to Sybil for sending me an advanced reader copy for review.
October 8, 2024
I received this book as an ARC for my honest review.
2.5/5⭐️
The premise of this book was one of the reasons I chose to apply for the ARC - I love a small town romance. But I feel as if it just fell flat.
Kelsey, the FMC, was an a-hole. The whole book. When she first encountered Quentin, the night of the fireworks and his too loud music - she was actually a whole jerk when talking to him. I was soured immediately from even caring. The redeeming qualities? None. She was unkind most of the book.
Quentin was a great MMC and I liked his backstory. His character development was great. He’s a great character. Arlene was also one of my favorites.
The story was good and had a lot of potential. The holes in the plot were pretty easy to look over but it nagged in the back of my mind. It was a bumpy ride, but not necessarily a miserable one. We just need to smooth out the roads a bit.
Overall the premise was there, the story was ripe, and then the execution wasn’t what I expected. I can see this author excelling in the future once she gets the kinks out.
2.5/5⭐️
The premise of this book was one of the reasons I chose to apply for the ARC - I love a small town romance. But I feel as if it just fell flat.
Kelsey, the FMC, was an a-hole. The whole book. When she first encountered Quentin, the night of the fireworks and his too loud music - she was actually a whole jerk when talking to him. I was soured immediately from even caring. The redeeming qualities? None. She was unkind most of the book.
Quentin was a great MMC and I liked his backstory. His character development was great. He’s a great character. Arlene was also one of my favorites.
The story was good and had a lot of potential. The holes in the plot were pretty easy to look over but it nagged in the back of my mind. It was a bumpy ride, but not necessarily a miserable one. We just need to smooth out the roads a bit.
Overall the premise was there, the story was ripe, and then the execution wasn’t what I expected. I can see this author excelling in the future once she gets the kinks out.
October 10, 2024
Unfortunately, this book was just not it for me. There could have been so much done right and it just went left due to one thing: the fmc. There was a lot of immature characteristic she had for a woman who was 34/35 years old. I tried to have some grace thinking "she just got out of an abusive relationship" but even that abusive relationship becomes semi null & void in her brain and it's just her character flaws that show. The even bigger kicker was, that as time went on, her was zero growth. Her language and verbiage stayed juvenile and rude at times to the point where I could not believe I was reading a grown woman speaking to a grown man. Quentin growing his back bone was great but I also wish he stuck to his word in regards to his feelings/his reaction to Kelsey's disrespect. He just seemed to settle for her.
I was really anticipating this to be a beautiful romance but it was just ..... not.
I was really anticipating this to be a beautiful romance but it was just ..... not.
September 25, 2024
ARC review: This was such a lovely story of personal growth, overcoming insecurities, and finding the love we deserve. I really enjoyed the tenderness and strength of the main characters, as well as the connection they had with the minor characters in the town. Overall a very sweet and touching story!
October 7, 2024
I received an ARC of this book from the author in exchange for my honest review.
I was really excited to read this after checking out Sybil Kelton's novella. Plus, the cover art is absolutely stunning!
Favorite Quote - "I recently came to the conclusion that being scared and happy is better than being safe and unhappy."
This book follows Quentin and Kelsey on a story of finding themselves and true love. I loved the amount of growth that the characters had - I just wish there was more of it. I felt happy, sad, and I got REALLY angry at her mom, Ryan (her soon to be ex-husband), and his friends. I needed more of Quentin and Kelsey as a lot of their relationship development seemed to happen off-page.
Kelsey definitely seems like she should be mid-20s with the way she treats Quentin at times. It makes me question at times if she really had 10 years of marriage experience, especially in a DV relationship, when she treats Quentin the way she does. However, I do love that she stands up for herself with her mother and Ryan!
I enjoyed the work overall and I think there is a lot of potential for Sybil in her future works, but there were just some things that distracted me from the story that made it difficult for me to follow.
-Throughout the book there were many typos, and even one author note it seems like. The paragraph had said, "Fine, if he decided to be an ass Most Americans would use "ass." about this, I would take my complaints to..." which makes it seem like there is a note for editing included in the book.
-Sometimes there were "w's" in place of "a's"
-The author refers to a social media platform called ConnectBook, but then switches to Facebook and then back to ConnectBook all within the same paragraph.
-Another paragraph there was a discrepancy of how many children there were - "For a while, I was a dirt-poor single mother of three. You have to learn to become self-sufficient fast if four little ones depend on you..."
-Another time that I noticed was when the author refers to the color of the dress Kelsey is wearing, from dark green to light blue? I didn't know if that was the same date or different one...
Even though it seems like I had more problems than good things with the story, I did like it overall!
I was really excited to read this after checking out Sybil Kelton's novella. Plus, the cover art is absolutely stunning!
Favorite Quote - "I recently came to the conclusion that being scared and happy is better than being safe and unhappy."
This book follows Quentin and Kelsey on a story of finding themselves and true love. I loved the amount of growth that the characters had - I just wish there was more of it. I felt happy, sad, and I got REALLY angry at her mom, Ryan (her soon to be ex-husband), and his friends. I needed more of Quentin and Kelsey as a lot of their relationship development seemed to happen off-page.
Kelsey definitely seems like she should be mid-20s with the way she treats Quentin at times. It makes me question at times if she really had 10 years of marriage experience, especially in a DV relationship, when she treats Quentin the way she does. However, I do love that she stands up for herself with her mother and Ryan!
I enjoyed the work overall and I think there is a lot of potential for Sybil in her future works, but there were just some things that distracted me from the story that made it difficult for me to follow.
-Throughout the book there were many typos, and even one author note it seems like. The paragraph had said, "Fine, if he decided to be an ass Most Americans would use "ass." about this, I would take my complaints to..." which makes it seem like there is a note for editing included in the book.
-Sometimes there were "w's" in place of "a's"
-The author refers to a social media platform called ConnectBook, but then switches to Facebook and then back to ConnectBook all within the same paragraph.
-Another paragraph there was a discrepancy of how many children there were - "For a while, I was a dirt-poor single mother of three. You have to learn to become self-sufficient fast if four little ones depend on you..."
-Another time that I noticed was when the author refers to the color of the dress Kelsey is wearing, from dark green to light blue? I didn't know if that was the same date or different one...
Even though it seems like I had more problems than good things with the story, I did like it overall!
September 29, 2024
Lessons in Love follows Kelsey, a woman trying to rebuild her life in the quiet town of Bridgewater, Oregon, after escaping a toxic marriage. Her new neighbour, Quentin, is a reclusive teacher bearing emotional and physical scars from a traumatic past. Their initial tension gradually softens into something deeper as the two are forced together by circumstance, leading them to confront their vulnerabilities—and ultimately, the possibility of healing through love.
At first glance, I expected this to be a heartwarming small-town romance, rich in emotion and personal growth. While the premise is solid and the story itself an easy, pleasant read, it didn’t quite live up to its potential for me.
Quentin, as the male lead, is a standout character. He's kind, thoughtful, and layered with complexities. His struggles with PTSD and his reclusive nature provided some powerful moments, and I appreciated how the author gently peeled back the layers of his trauma. That said, I wish his past had been explored more thoroughly. Quentin’s emotional scars deserved more depth, and delving further into his PTSD would have made his healing journey feel more impactful. Still, I found myself rooting for him from start to finish.
On the other hand, Kelsey’s character was difficult to connect with. She’s introduced as a woman escaping an abusive relationship, which offered so much potential for growth and empowerment. However, her behaviour often felt immature and unnecessarily harsh, especially in the third act. While it’s clear the author intended to showcase her flaws, her actions toward Quentin—particularly during a pivotal, hurtful moment—were hard to sympathize with and left me feeling disconnected from her journey.
One element I truly enjoyed was the setting of Bridgewater. The small-town charm, the close-knit community, and the local diner felt vividly real and added warmth to the story. The side characters and the town’s atmosphere were lovely touches, giving me that quintessential small-town romance vibe I was craving.
Overall, Lessons in Love is a light, easy read with some sweet moments, but it lacks the depth I was hoping for in both character development and emotional payoff.
Thank you to the author for the opportunity to read this ARC in exchange for an honest review.
Follow me on Instagram for more bookish reviews and content:
https://www.instagram.com/bookish_kat...
At first glance, I expected this to be a heartwarming small-town romance, rich in emotion and personal growth. While the premise is solid and the story itself an easy, pleasant read, it didn’t quite live up to its potential for me.
Quentin, as the male lead, is a standout character. He's kind, thoughtful, and layered with complexities. His struggles with PTSD and his reclusive nature provided some powerful moments, and I appreciated how the author gently peeled back the layers of his trauma. That said, I wish his past had been explored more thoroughly. Quentin’s emotional scars deserved more depth, and delving further into his PTSD would have made his healing journey feel more impactful. Still, I found myself rooting for him from start to finish.
On the other hand, Kelsey’s character was difficult to connect with. She’s introduced as a woman escaping an abusive relationship, which offered so much potential for growth and empowerment. However, her behaviour often felt immature and unnecessarily harsh, especially in the third act. While it’s clear the author intended to showcase her flaws, her actions toward Quentin—particularly during a pivotal, hurtful moment—were hard to sympathize with and left me feeling disconnected from her journey.
One element I truly enjoyed was the setting of Bridgewater. The small-town charm, the close-knit community, and the local diner felt vividly real and added warmth to the story. The side characters and the town’s atmosphere were lovely touches, giving me that quintessential small-town romance vibe I was craving.
Overall, Lessons in Love is a light, easy read with some sweet moments, but it lacks the depth I was hoping for in both character development and emotional payoff.
Thank you to the author for the opportunity to read this ARC in exchange for an honest review.
Follow me on Instagram for more bookish reviews and content:
https://www.instagram.com/bookish_kat...
October 15, 2024
✨A R C R E V I E W✨
Title: Lessons in Love
Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️.75/⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
I want to start off by saying thank you to Sybil Kelton for the wonderful chance to read this ARC! It has been such a pleasure and experience! My review is made of entirely my own thoughts and opinions!
What a journey this book was! It truly felt like I was on a rollercoaster with so many emotions I had along the way! I loved watching the progression of Kelsey and Quentin budding friendship and relationship. It was definitely more slow burn with some obstacles they had to face to finally be able to have their happy ending!
While there was a journey you could see between Kelsey and Quentin along with her being in a new place and making new friends, she is such a strong character with a growth of self discovery and belief in herself that she had lost from her husband who I really didn’t like!
Escaping that relationship to find herself I loved the deep connection between her and Quentin especially with the deeper emotions and physical scars he bares. They were the perfect person for each other to grow together and show that love is more deeper than just what you see!
When I say it was a rollercoaster I mean quite literally the emotions were all over the place sometimes! I did feel some annoyance to Kelsey later on in the book that made me want to shake her but she needed that time to really understand the importance of her budding relationship with Quentin and essentially find her way back to him herself because she loves him and wants to be with him!
This is a perfect read to get though quite quickly with so much packed into it, the plot was really engaging and I loved watching the friendships and romance form! I managed to read this book in one day so I’d say it’s quite an easy read!
I really liked this one, this had the small town vibes with some angst sprinkled in for these dislike to lovers pair!
Lessons in Love is available to read now!💜
You can also find my review on my bookstagram: _romanticallybookish_ ☺️
Title: Lessons in Love
Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️.75/⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
I want to start off by saying thank you to Sybil Kelton for the wonderful chance to read this ARC! It has been such a pleasure and experience! My review is made of entirely my own thoughts and opinions!
What a journey this book was! It truly felt like I was on a rollercoaster with so many emotions I had along the way! I loved watching the progression of Kelsey and Quentin budding friendship and relationship. It was definitely more slow burn with some obstacles they had to face to finally be able to have their happy ending!
While there was a journey you could see between Kelsey and Quentin along with her being in a new place and making new friends, she is such a strong character with a growth of self discovery and belief in herself that she had lost from her husband who I really didn’t like!
Escaping that relationship to find herself I loved the deep connection between her and Quentin especially with the deeper emotions and physical scars he bares. They were the perfect person for each other to grow together and show that love is more deeper than just what you see!
When I say it was a rollercoaster I mean quite literally the emotions were all over the place sometimes! I did feel some annoyance to Kelsey later on in the book that made me want to shake her but she needed that time to really understand the importance of her budding relationship with Quentin and essentially find her way back to him herself because she loves him and wants to be with him!
This is a perfect read to get though quite quickly with so much packed into it, the plot was really engaging and I loved watching the friendships and romance form! I managed to read this book in one day so I’d say it’s quite an easy read!
I really liked this one, this had the small town vibes with some angst sprinkled in for these dislike to lovers pair!
Lessons in Love is available to read now!💜
You can also find my review on my bookstagram: _romanticallybookish_ ☺️
October 5, 2024
3.5 ⭐️
Lessons In Love is Sybil’s debut novel and I really enjoyed reading it.
The character development in this was amazing I loved watching Kelsey find her independence again after escaping an abusive marriage and overcome everything that way thrown her way. Also seeing Quention heal from his own traumas and insecurities was really emotional. Such a sweet and kind loving man with such a tough exterior and for good reasons! I loved their chemistry and the slow burn made it worth it in the end.
Thankyou Sybil for the arc ❤️
Lessons In Love is Sybil’s debut novel and I really enjoyed reading it.
The character development in this was amazing I loved watching Kelsey find her independence again after escaping an abusive marriage and overcome everything that way thrown her way. Also seeing Quention heal from his own traumas and insecurities was really emotional. Such a sweet and kind loving man with such a tough exterior and for good reasons! I loved their chemistry and the slow burn made it worth it in the end.
Thankyou Sybil for the arc ❤️
Read
October 10, 2024I decided to DNF this book when the FMC "realized" she was in love with the MMC out of absolutely nowhere.
Read
October 17, 2024Review to come
October 3, 2024
This was a quick and engaging read!
Kelsey is determined to escape her controlling husband, with no real plan in mind, letting fate guide her next steps. Though her decisions are often impulsive and at times frustrating, her journey toward self-discovery and independence is admirable. As the story progresses, Kelsey grows more confident in herself, and her transformation is one of the highlights of the book.
Quentin, a war veteran living in solitude, is deeply affected by how others perceive his scars. His quiet strength and devotion, especially in caring for his mother, make him a sympathetic and endearing character. Both Kelsey and Quentin experience significant personal growth, and their connection feels authentic, with each helping the other evolve in meaningful ways.
For fans of contemporary and second-chance romances, this novel offers a satisfying and heartfelt read.
Looking forward to Sybil’s next book!
Kelsey is determined to escape her controlling husband, with no real plan in mind, letting fate guide her next steps. Though her decisions are often impulsive and at times frustrating, her journey toward self-discovery and independence is admirable. As the story progresses, Kelsey grows more confident in herself, and her transformation is one of the highlights of the book.
Quentin, a war veteran living in solitude, is deeply affected by how others perceive his scars. His quiet strength and devotion, especially in caring for his mother, make him a sympathetic and endearing character. Both Kelsey and Quentin experience significant personal growth, and their connection feels authentic, with each helping the other evolve in meaningful ways.
For fans of contemporary and second-chance romances, this novel offers a satisfying and heartfelt read.
Looking forward to Sybil’s next book!
October 3, 2024
Thank you, Sybil Kelton for this advanced copy in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own.
This is a really sweet and hope filled story. I have a soft spot for Quentin. He’s such a cinnamon roll type character and I wanted so badly for him to be happy. To see Kelsey so beaten down by her gaslighting, mentally abusive husband was so sad. Ryan is horrible and made me cringe with his blatant manipulation. Unlike Ryan who tears Kelsey down to keep her, Quentin builds her up. I loved how Quentin and Kelsey both grow to know their worth. Their love story is sweet. This is a quick read that you can read in one sitting, but longer than a novella. I enjoyed this read and would recommend it!
As an ARC I saw a number of typos which I’m sure will be fixed in the published version. One thing I wanted to point out was that the social media site in the beginning is referred to as ConnectBook, but one time Facebook was written instead.
This is a really sweet and hope filled story. I have a soft spot for Quentin. He’s such a cinnamon roll type character and I wanted so badly for him to be happy. To see Kelsey so beaten down by her gaslighting, mentally abusive husband was so sad. Ryan is horrible and made me cringe with his blatant manipulation. Unlike Ryan who tears Kelsey down to keep her, Quentin builds her up. I loved how Quentin and Kelsey both grow to know their worth. Their love story is sweet. This is a quick read that you can read in one sitting, but longer than a novella. I enjoyed this read and would recommend it!
As an ARC I saw a number of typos which I’m sure will be fixed in the published version. One thing I wanted to point out was that the social media site in the beginning is referred to as ConnectBook, but one time Facebook was written instead.
October 3, 2024
It was a lovely start to the bright water series, I definitely felt like Kelsey and Quentin had a lot of growth in the book and overcoming insecurities and self-doubt.
The small town setting and the communication between the two were perfect, but sometimes I felt like Kelsey needed a talking to from the way she did things in the book.
Quentin is definitely a man I would want in my life, caring towards his mother, cleanliness, and just outright gentlemen. What more can you ask for?
The book also touches on some heavy subjects, so be wary.
Thank you Sybil Kelton for giving me a chance to read this arc 💕
The small town setting and the communication between the two were perfect, but sometimes I felt like Kelsey needed a talking to from the way she did things in the book.
Quentin is definitely a man I would want in my life, caring towards his mother, cleanliness, and just outright gentlemen. What more can you ask for?
The book also touches on some heavy subjects, so be wary.
Thank you Sybil Kelton for giving me a chance to read this arc 💕
October 6, 2024
ARC review💕
•
Lessons in Love by @sybil.kelton.author
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️/5
•
This was a cute small town romance where the FMC Kelsey leaves a mentally abusive marriage and picks a random place to live. She meets the veteran MMC Quentin. I loved Quentin, however sometimes Kelsey kinda got on my nerves. This one was a slow burn and I really enjoyed their relationship coming together! If you’ve read Safe Haven by Nicholas Sparks (loved) it kinda gives off those vibes which I like!
•
Thank you so much @sybil.kelton.author for being so kind and sending me an ARC! I loved it, and I hope it does well💕
•
Lessons in Love by @sybil.kelton.author
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️/5
•
This was a cute small town romance where the FMC Kelsey leaves a mentally abusive marriage and picks a random place to live. She meets the veteran MMC Quentin. I loved Quentin, however sometimes Kelsey kinda got on my nerves. This one was a slow burn and I really enjoyed their relationship coming together! If you’ve read Safe Haven by Nicholas Sparks (loved) it kinda gives off those vibes which I like!
•
Thank you so much @sybil.kelton.author for being so kind and sending me an ARC! I loved it, and I hope it does well💕
September 28, 2024
One thing is for certain.... Kelsey should have sought therapy after leaving her marriage. It did a number on her. She talked down about herself all through this book, even after she got her HEA. Therapy was needed for her.
I enjoyed the story, I just wish there was more to the feelings and connections. There just wasn't any there. I was hoping for character growth with Kelsey, but it fell flat.
It was hard to get to know Kelsey underneath years and years of mental and verbal abuse. Kelsey was a shell. She used hurtful words against Quentin, and honestly, he deserves better than Kelsey.
Quentin was a shy recluse. He only communicated with those he felt close with or had to. Quentin was injured during his duty and had been scarred severely. He went his whole life, allowing the scars to make the person he was. Which is understandable. He was shy and nervous about his feelings for Kelsey.
It was hard to witness the words that Kelsey said to Quentin when she chose to go back to her husband. 😔 Unforgivable in my opinion.
I enjoyed the story, I just wish there was more to the feelings and connections. There just wasn't any there. I was hoping for character growth with Kelsey, but it fell flat.
It was hard to get to know Kelsey underneath years and years of mental and verbal abuse. Kelsey was a shell. She used hurtful words against Quentin, and honestly, he deserves better than Kelsey.
Quentin was a shy recluse. He only communicated with those he felt close with or had to. Quentin was injured during his duty and had been scarred severely. He went his whole life, allowing the scars to make the person he was. Which is understandable. He was shy and nervous about his feelings for Kelsey.
It was hard to witness the words that Kelsey said to Quentin when she chose to go back to her husband. 😔 Unforgivable in my opinion.
December 1, 2024
ARC REVIEW
Quentin is an ex-soldier turned social sciences teacher 🍎. You pick up Kelsey story at the point in which she is in the process of getting away from her husband 💍 or soon to be ex-husband.
During the story, you unravel their back stories with their own histories and their childhood, which lead to the decisions they find themselves currently. Through the book, Kelsey is trying to rebuild herself a life with independence for the first time in her life and also a way from her ex.
You can tell that this is a small-town romance as the community in which she steps into and creates who helps her in her way to create this new independent life is so cute 💜. But in that small town, she meets Arlene. Well, every story needs a meddler 🤭. She tried her hardest and now looking back on the book as a whole she was trying to work her vision from first meeting Kelsey, the only empty unit so how happened to be right next to Quentin (I see you Arlene) 🤫.
Kelsey is meant to be in her 30 however I felt that she never acted her age instead felt to be of a age must younger than she was. The way in which she treats Quentin, it is no wonder that he has trust issues. The whole 3rd act instead was entirely unnecessary and the consequences of the 3rd act felt so rushed after just to end the story on a happy note.
Quentin is an ex-soldier turned social sciences teacher 🍎. You pick up Kelsey story at the point in which she is in the process of getting away from her husband 💍 or soon to be ex-husband.
During the story, you unravel their back stories with their own histories and their childhood, which lead to the decisions they find themselves currently. Through the book, Kelsey is trying to rebuild herself a life with independence for the first time in her life and also a way from her ex.
You can tell that this is a small-town romance as the community in which she steps into and creates who helps her in her way to create this new independent life is so cute 💜. But in that small town, she meets Arlene. Well, every story needs a meddler 🤭. She tried her hardest and now looking back on the book as a whole she was trying to work her vision from first meeting Kelsey, the only empty unit so how happened to be right next to Quentin (I see you Arlene) 🤫.
Kelsey is meant to be in her 30 however I felt that she never acted her age instead felt to be of a age must younger than she was. The way in which she treats Quentin, it is no wonder that he has trust issues. The whole 3rd act instead was entirely unnecessary and the consequences of the 3rd act felt so rushed after just to end the story on a happy note.
October 13, 2024
First off, thank you to the author for the ARC copy of this book.
I signed up for this book expecting to love it. The premise had be hooked right away. Unfortunately, it was a huge miss for me.
Kelsey was very unlikeable to me. She grated on my nerves. From start to finish. She read as being a woman in her early 20s, not a 34 year old woman. I found her to be whiny and annoying. There was no way of convincing my brain that she was in her 30s with the way she was written.
Quentin, on the other hand, I didn’t mind, to put it simply.
The pacing felt too fast with the type of events that were taking place. The flow from one thing to the next was clunky and didn’t really read as seamlessly as I would have liked. There is not a chance that someone (Quentin in this case) would quickly get over the downright terrible things that were said to them. Especially, from a love interest. No way. The ending was rushed. We go from Kelsey coming back, to Quentin practically forgiving her at the drop of a hat and them being totally okay. It was very unbelievable for me. I cringed and rolled my eyes.
This book had SO much potential. I hung on hoping for it to get better, but I kind of wish I DNF’ed. (Side note: there were SO MANY errors that also took away from the story for me.)
I’m sorry. I look forward to seeing how the author grows moving forward.
I signed up for this book expecting to love it. The premise had be hooked right away. Unfortunately, it was a huge miss for me.
Kelsey was very unlikeable to me. She grated on my nerves. From start to finish. She read as being a woman in her early 20s, not a 34 year old woman. I found her to be whiny and annoying. There was no way of convincing my brain that she was in her 30s with the way she was written.
Quentin, on the other hand, I didn’t mind, to put it simply.
The pacing felt too fast with the type of events that were taking place. The flow from one thing to the next was clunky and didn’t really read as seamlessly as I would have liked. There is not a chance that someone (Quentin in this case) would quickly get over the downright terrible things that were said to them. Especially, from a love interest. No way. The ending was rushed. We go from Kelsey coming back, to Quentin practically forgiving her at the drop of a hat and them being totally okay. It was very unbelievable for me. I cringed and rolled my eyes.
This book had SO much potential. I hung on hoping for it to get better, but I kind of wish I DNF’ed. (Side note: there were SO MANY errors that also took away from the story for me.)
I’m sorry. I look forward to seeing how the author grows moving forward.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
September 28, 2024
Lessons in Love
By Sybil Kelton
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🌶
💜 Second Chance small town Romance
💜 He falls first and harder
💜 She is running from her past
💜 Slow Burn
💜 Scarred hero
This beautifully written slow burn story introduces Kelsey, the female lead, who is fleeing from her emotionally abusive husband, Ryan. With only a backpack and a dream of a fresh start, she impulsively chooses a destination on a map and embarks on a journey to Brightwater, a small, close-knit town.
In Brightwater, Kelsey encounters Quentin, a reclusive war veteran known for his kind and gentle nature. As Kelsey begins to build a new life for herself, the question arises: will her past resurface and threaten the peace she has found?
This is a great book for people into I would say contemporary/second chance romances, and also want to say the author Sybil is also a neurologist, and as someone who has to see a neurologist constantly, it makes a nice change to actually be able to understand something coming from a neurologist 😉😆 no big medical words in here! AND IT'S IN ENGLISH 🤣🤣 If you know you know 🖤🖤🖤
Lessons in Love is available on Amazon now in Paperback form 😘💜
By Sybil Kelton
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🌶
💜 Second Chance small town Romance
💜 He falls first and harder
💜 She is running from her past
💜 Slow Burn
💜 Scarred hero
This beautifully written slow burn story introduces Kelsey, the female lead, who is fleeing from her emotionally abusive husband, Ryan. With only a backpack and a dream of a fresh start, she impulsively chooses a destination on a map and embarks on a journey to Brightwater, a small, close-knit town.
In Brightwater, Kelsey encounters Quentin, a reclusive war veteran known for his kind and gentle nature. As Kelsey begins to build a new life for herself, the question arises: will her past resurface and threaten the peace she has found?
This is a great book for people into I would say contemporary/second chance romances, and also want to say the author Sybil is also a neurologist, and as someone who has to see a neurologist constantly, it makes a nice change to actually be able to understand something coming from a neurologist 😉😆 no big medical words in here! AND IT'S IN ENGLISH 🤣🤣 If you know you know 🖤🖤🖤
Lessons in Love is available on Amazon now in Paperback form 😘💜
October 24, 2024
This was a challenging read for me because, though, I recognize everyone handles trauma differently, the FMC was emotionally immature but also quite cruel. I could not connect to her, even to the point of becoming angry with the MMC for putting up with it. Once you squeeze the toothpaste out of a tube you can clean it up, but you can’t get it back in the tube…and some of the ways she behaved were just abhorrent.
Her poor behavior continued almost up to the very end and ultimately their connection felt awkward and forced and like settling for them both.
Mostly, as a therapist, I was sad at the missed opportunity for growth for both characters. Trauma can make you prickly and prickly people can still be loveable-but there were no real indicators of any lessons here for me. I felt the FMC never took true accountability and sadly a list of excuses is not an apology.
I get what the author was trying to do and if this is a series, I so hope these characters will have progressed in some way.
Stars are hard for me here, because the writing itself wasn’t bad (despite some errors) and it’s all subjective anyway.
Her poor behavior continued almost up to the very end and ultimately their connection felt awkward and forced and like settling for them both.
Mostly, as a therapist, I was sad at the missed opportunity for growth for both characters. Trauma can make you prickly and prickly people can still be loveable-but there were no real indicators of any lessons here for me. I felt the FMC never took true accountability and sadly a list of excuses is not an apology.
I get what the author was trying to do and if this is a series, I so hope these characters will have progressed in some way.
Stars are hard for me here, because the writing itself wasn’t bad (despite some errors) and it’s all subjective anyway.
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