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The Life We Left Behind
Trace Farrington was the love of my teenage life, until his family ran me out of town, heartbroken and pregnant. They told me he didn’t want me any more. When he never came to find me, I had no choice but to believe them.
Now my father has passed away, and I have to return to Willowbrook. The old farmhouse needs closing up and the funeral arrangements made. It’s the least I can do for the man who always supported me.
But returning to Willowbrook means facing the Farringtons and seeing Trace again.
I should be angry with him. I shouldn’t want anything to do with him, but when we meet, old feelings resurface and I’m lost. We aren’t teenagers anymore, and with age has come wisdom and maybe even forgiveness.
Trace wants a second chance, but I have no idea what I want anymore. I’m a mother now, and starting over isn’t just about me.
Emotions and tempers are running high. Can we put the past behind us, or are there larger things at play keeping us apart? Things set into motion all those years ago.
Now my father has passed away, and I have to return to Willowbrook. The old farmhouse needs closing up and the funeral arrangements made. It’s the least I can do for the man who always supported me.
But returning to Willowbrook means facing the Farringtons and seeing Trace again.
I should be angry with him. I shouldn’t want anything to do with him, but when we meet, old feelings resurface and I’m lost. We aren’t teenagers anymore, and with age has come wisdom and maybe even forgiveness.
Trace wants a second chance, but I have no idea what I want anymore. I’m a mother now, and starting over isn’t just about me.
Emotions and tempers are running high. Can we put the past behind us, or are there larger things at play keeping us apart? Things set into motion all those years ago.
384 pages, Kindle Edition
Published February 6, 2025
205 people are currently reading
298 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 168 reviews
February 7, 2025
4.05!
For a debut this was amazing and so well written that it honestly did not feel like it was a debut and I actually went to goodreads to see if she had any other books. I feel like this story was so easy to read and addicting and I feel that the writing style helped this book so much. I was invested from the very first page, the way she started this book with grief was also a nice and surprising way. The pacing on this book was something that affected my rating because the starting and ending's pacing was perfect, it was not fast nor was it slow just enough to keep me invested and while the middle dragged for some time and though it did not loose my interest it did affect my mood a little bit.
I am a little conflicted with Delaney's characters because I did not understand how she literally went to Trace's bed after their second meeting because I think she missed the where she was to hate me him lol but I feel like coming back to where she lived and dealing with loss may have made it her think and want that but it still was little weird to read but I liked how much her character grew from the girl we saw in the prologue , her relationship with Cade was so good and I loved how she raised him so well on her own....then we had our male main character Trace who was alrighttt, I liked him but after the 40% mark and I think that was the authors intentions so it well worked!!
The romance was well done, I loved the yearning and the angst and I also liked the spice, I loved how they reconnected, worked their problems and fell in love again. I also love how loving Trace was!
Overall, it was a fun read!
___
I've like 50% of this book and I am really enjoying it so far. For a debut, this authors writing is amazing!
*Thank you to Grey's promotion for an E-Arc*
For a debut this was amazing and so well written that it honestly did not feel like it was a debut and I actually went to goodreads to see if she had any other books. I feel like this story was so easy to read and addicting and I feel that the writing style helped this book so much. I was invested from the very first page, the way she started this book with grief was also a nice and surprising way. The pacing on this book was something that affected my rating because the starting and ending's pacing was perfect, it was not fast nor was it slow just enough to keep me invested and while the middle dragged for some time and though it did not loose my interest it did affect my mood a little bit.
I am a little conflicted with Delaney's characters because I did not understand how she literally went to Trace's bed after their second meeting because I think she missed the where she was to hate me him lol but I feel like coming back to where she lived and dealing with loss may have made it her think and want that but it still was little weird to read but I liked how much her character grew from the girl we saw in the prologue , her relationship with Cade was so good and I loved how she raised him so well on her own....then we had our male main character Trace who was alrighttt, I liked him but after the 40% mark and I think that was the authors intentions so it well worked!!
The romance was well done, I loved the yearning and the angst and I also liked the spice, I loved how they reconnected, worked their problems and fell in love again. I also love how loving Trace was!
Overall, it was a fun read!
___
I've like 50% of this book and I am really enjoying it so far. For a debut, this authors writing is amazing!
*Thank you to Grey's promotion for an E-Arc*
February 6, 2025
I am irrationally mad this is a debut novel and this author does not have a backlist for me to binge. 🤣
You know when you read a book and the writing style just clicks with you and you know they’re going to be an auto read author. Piper Wylde is added to my list.
This was so good!⭐️
So freaking consuming.
I had to force myself to go to sleep but still managed to read this in less than 24 hours.
Trace & Delaney (&Cade)
Small town
Second chance: high school sweethearts
Single parent
Drama: side characters you will hate with a passion!!🔪
Returning home
Secrets & lies
Cute kid
It’s always been you💕
Groveling
I may have cried the first 3%…
Read the blurb for this book please!
Boy am I also excited for the rest of the Farrington boys.
Arc review ✨
You know when you read a book and the writing style just clicks with you and you know they’re going to be an auto read author. Piper Wylde is added to my list.
This was so good!⭐️
So freaking consuming.
I had to force myself to go to sleep but still managed to read this in less than 24 hours.
Trace & Delaney (&Cade)
Small town
Second chance: high school sweethearts
Single parent
Drama: side characters you will hate with a passion!!🔪
Returning home
Secrets & lies
Cute kid
It’s always been you💕
Groveling
I may have cried the first 3%…
Read the blurb for this book please!
Boy am I also excited for the rest of the Farrington boys.
Arc review ✨
February 12, 2025
Typical frozen heroine for 10 years, while the hero had a great sex life and married the h’s bff. What’s wrong with these authors? Double standards instantly get 1 star from now on. Sick and tired of this trope.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
March 27, 2025
You could just feel if an author hates a strong woman. You can see it in her writing, her characterization of her female characters, her journey, the decisions they made. And this book is a great example of that.
Also almost all of the 4/5 stars have one common word in them: ARC
This is why I ain’t ever trusting ARC readers for a really “honest review”
Also almost all of the 4/5 stars have one common word in them: ARC
This is why I ain’t ever trusting ARC readers for a really “honest review”
March 17, 2025
Ugh. Should’ve got more spoilers before touching this one because I DO NOT do the of women and certainly not of men by his 😡 Most unpleasant
Lazy, lazy, Beeg🤔
Hth a 26 year old woman knowingly allows 10 years ago is beyond me. Sigh.
And hth a man can care about and even ? Sheesh
Lazy, lazy, Beeg🤔
Hth a 26 year old woman knowingly allows 10 years ago is beyond me. Sigh.
And hth a man can care about and even ? Sheesh
February 2, 2025
4.75⭐️ | 2.5🌶
Wow! I had no idea this was a debut. It certainly didn't read or feel like one. this was fantastic. the pain, the guilt, regret and searing sorrow and every emotion was depicted so vividly. I loved Trace, Delaney and Cade's story. Everything about them just... fit. they were fantastic. there is miscommunication in this story, but i promise, it's 1000% worth it. Booker, Xander and Gage, they are all enigmas but especially Gage. I hate what Regina did (truth be told, I just generally hate Regina as a person). The time lost between Barrett, Delaney and Cade and the latter two and Trace was heartbreaking. I wish things were different especially with Barrett but it was a fantastic story nonetheless. And Blake! Oh mu goodness, she was EVERYTHING! Cannot wait to read more about Willowbrook.
Wow! I had no idea this was a debut. It certainly didn't read or feel like one. this was fantastic. the pain, the guilt, regret and searing sorrow and every emotion was depicted so vividly. I loved Trace, Delaney and Cade's story. Everything about them just... fit. they were fantastic. there is miscommunication in this story, but i promise, it's 1000% worth it. Booker, Xander and Gage, they are all enigmas but especially Gage. I hate what Regina did (truth be told, I just generally hate Regina as a person). The time lost between Barrett, Delaney and Cade and the latter two and Trace was heartbreaking. I wish things were different especially with Barrett but it was a fantastic story nonetheless. And Blake! Oh mu goodness, she was EVERYTHING! Cannot wait to read more about Willowbrook.
cheater-mmc
August 9, 2025Note : not safe
Never trust arc readers
Hero kissed fmc's bff 10 years ago aka he cheated on her( she kissed him and he kissed her back )
Fmc left because she got pregnant and thought the mmc didnt want her ( she didnt know about the cheating )
10 years later she's back to find the mmc had married the bff that he cheated on her with and who broke them up
But don't worry guys he's always loved the fmc despite marrying another woman
Never trust arc readers
Hero kissed fmc's bff 10 years ago aka he cheated on her( she kissed him and he kissed her back )
Fmc left because she got pregnant and thought the mmc didnt want her ( she didnt know about the cheating )
10 years later she's back to find the mmc had married the bff that he cheated on her with and who broke them up
But don't worry guys he's always loved the fmc despite marrying another woman
October 27, 2025
Skimmed a little but overall decent read. I did question the h a couple of times. Like why on earth was she not even a little angry still and who sleeps with the guy who
You believe did you wrong when you were 16 and pregnant then married your a$$hole of an ex BFF..
just have a bit of self respect and at least have the conversation first.
You believe did you wrong when you were 16 and pregnant then married your a$$hole of an ex BFF..
just have a bit of self respect and at least have the conversation first.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
February 1, 2025
This was honestly a beautiful emotional read and it definitely brought a tear to my eye from the first few chapters. The wave of emotions you feel reading this book is next level and it had be invested from the beginning. Both Delaney and Trace’s backstory and past was heart breaking at times and yet their growth especially Delaney’s was a testament to her resilience and strength. The way Trace was with Delaney after her return to her hometown was amazing even after everything that had happened. This is a small town second chance romance. I thoroughly enjoyed this book and would highly recommend it. I received a complementary copy from the author.
January 28, 2025
Childhood sweethearts, return to hometown and second-chance romance...I couldn't ask for more.
I went into this book with few Expectations, but it just surprised me. I cried, giggled, angry with certain characters' actions, and I felt a lot of emotions while reading it —mostly happy ones. Trace was such a nice guy. He wasn't cold with Delaney. The way he dealt with the situation when he found out about his son...I was very pleased. And Delaney is such a sweetheart. She didn't hold a grudge against Trace and tried to understand him without being overbearing and overreacting.
Cade's character is so innocent and nice. I loved him a lot.
The writing of his book was so easy and flowy. I'll surely continue this series and read more of this author's books.
Thank you so much, Piper Wylde and the publishers for providing this ARC
I went into this book with few Expectations, but it just surprised me. I cried, giggled, angry with certain characters' actions, and I felt a lot of emotions while reading it —mostly happy ones. Trace was such a nice guy. He wasn't cold with Delaney. The way he dealt with the situation when he found out about his son...I was very pleased. And Delaney is such a sweetheart. She didn't hold a grudge against Trace and tried to understand him without being overbearing and overreacting.
Cade's character is so innocent and nice. I loved him a lot.
The writing of his book was so easy and flowy. I'll surely continue this series and read more of this author's books.
Thank you so much, Piper Wylde and the publishers for providing this ARC
February 6, 2025
"You have to feel your feelings, otherwise they make big angry balls of energy inside you."
Normally I will quote one of the main characters but this quote from little Cade is just absolute perfection. He is a little scene stealer with some of the stuff that came out of his mouth. I loved him.
Trace and Delaney, a second chance that shouldn't have even happened because they were meant to be. Soulmates from the very beginning and the best counterparts of the other. The connection they had 10 years ago has only intensified in over the years, in my opinion. The evidence is there clear as the blue sky the first time they come face to face. No matter what conspiring went on to tear them apart the love they share was truly underestimated and I loved seeing them prove the haters wrong.
Delaney has always been end game for Trace. He will do whatever it takes to keep her and Cade in his life. There are so many times he takes a stand with this fierceness and protectiveness that he proves his love for them. That kind of love is what they all three deserve as a family.
I walked away from this with my heart overflowing. So many heartbreaking moments from beginning to end but it is balanced out so well with the humor sprinkled in (especially when Blake and Cade are together) and the pure love that flows out of both Delaney and Trace.
Normally I will quote one of the main characters but this quote from little Cade is just absolute perfection. He is a little scene stealer with some of the stuff that came out of his mouth. I loved him.
Trace and Delaney, a second chance that shouldn't have even happened because they were meant to be. Soulmates from the very beginning and the best counterparts of the other. The connection they had 10 years ago has only intensified in over the years, in my opinion. The evidence is there clear as the blue sky the first time they come face to face. No matter what conspiring went on to tear them apart the love they share was truly underestimated and I loved seeing them prove the haters wrong.
Delaney has always been end game for Trace. He will do whatever it takes to keep her and Cade in his life. There are so many times he takes a stand with this fierceness and protectiveness that he proves his love for them. That kind of love is what they all three deserve as a family.
I walked away from this with my heart overflowing. So many heartbreaking moments from beginning to end but it is balanced out so well with the humor sprinkled in (especially when Blake and Cade are together) and the pure love that flows out of both Delaney and Trace.
January 31, 2025
This book had everything I love in a contemporary romance—small-town charm, deep friendships, and a love story that felt both real and emotional. The portrayal of best friends was beautifully done. I also adored the main character, a strong and confident single mum.
If you love small-town romances with heart, well-developed friendships, and second chance romance this book is definitely worth reading!
If you love small-town romances with heart, well-developed friendships, and second chance romance this book is definitely worth reading!
February 11, 2025
I could not put this book down!! I read it in a day. It is Piper’s debut, and I really enjoyed her writing style. She was tugging at my heart strings from page one. Second chance between childhood sweethearts is my absolute favorite, add in some small town secrets and drama, and I’m all in. I loved the characters and how the story unfolded, although there were a couple of moments when I wanted to ask them what the heck they were thinking. But it’s full of undeniable chemistry, great angst, and lots of love. Trace and Delaney are everything! And the side characters are going to make for some great upcoming stories. I am excited to see what happens in Willowbrook next!
Read if you like ⇣
•Small town romance
•Second chance
•Single mom
•Childhood sweethearts
•Return to hometown
•Dual POV
•Spice
Thank you Grey’s Promo and Piper Wylde for the eARC!
Read if you like ⇣
•Small town romance
•Second chance
•Single mom
•Childhood sweethearts
•Return to hometown
•Dual POV
•Spice
Thank you Grey’s Promo and Piper Wylde for the eARC!
July 22, 2025
DNF at 30%
This was so disappointing. I actually really enjoyed the first few chapters. I thought Delaney had a strong head on her shoulders. I was gutted for her when her Dad died and having to deal with the fallout of losing her last family member apart from her son. Having to return home to deal with their farm, house and small town. But especially having to face her child’s father and his powerful, rich family that ran her out of town 10 years prior.
But the second Delaney goes back home and runs into her ex Trace again… it’s like his rejection of their child was nothing but a blip. She’s not even back in town for 24 hours and she’s already fucking the guy. The supposed love of her life who got her pregnant at 16, dumped her, had his parents blackmail her into having an abortion or leaving town to have the child he didn’t want to know so she’s raised him alone. Trace is the reason she avoided coming home for 10 years and lost time with her father. But none of that matters because she only remembers the good memories of their relationship and immediately jumps back into bed with him. I could not believe it. I lost all respect for Delaney. I hate when books don’t respect the passage of time. They had a teenage romance, now they are adults. Act like it. But nope. Sex is all that is important here… not the fact a child has grown up without his Dad.
The fact that Delaney wasn’t even mad with Trace at all was weird. I get trying to be mature but she wasn’t. She avoided talking about their issues and then thought sex would heal all. Puh-lease. I couldn’t believe how quick she was to forgive him, to forget their past and just want to be with him again. Without any apologies, any explanations or any realistic conversations.
And some other things just didn’t make sense to me at all. I was really left scratching my head at Delaney.
- How was she not fucking furious with Chelsea for betraying her? Chelsea was the one who told Trace’s mother she was pregnant.
- Why would she let the family that ran her out of town & try to blackmail her… buy her families farm? I would have been fighting tooth and nail to make sure their grubby paws were kept of my father’s legacy?
- Why bring your son to a town you know has no knowledge of him because you signed a document at 16 to protect that families reputation and yet Cade looks exactly like his father so everyone will find out? She also doesn’t talk to the kids Dad before he shows up? I can’t believe she even thinks of getting back together Trace without even mentioning their kid. I can’t even. I have to stop. The amount of eye rolling from the stupidity is giving me a migraine.
This was so disappointing. I actually really enjoyed the first few chapters. I thought Delaney had a strong head on her shoulders. I was gutted for her when her Dad died and having to deal with the fallout of losing her last family member apart from her son. Having to return home to deal with their farm, house and small town. But especially having to face her child’s father and his powerful, rich family that ran her out of town 10 years prior.
But the second Delaney goes back home and runs into her ex Trace again… it’s like his rejection of their child was nothing but a blip. She’s not even back in town for 24 hours and she’s already fucking the guy. The supposed love of her life who got her pregnant at 16, dumped her, had his parents blackmail her into having an abortion or leaving town to have the child he didn’t want to know so she’s raised him alone. Trace is the reason she avoided coming home for 10 years and lost time with her father. But none of that matters because she only remembers the good memories of their relationship and immediately jumps back into bed with him. I could not believe it. I lost all respect for Delaney. I hate when books don’t respect the passage of time. They had a teenage romance, now they are adults. Act like it. But nope. Sex is all that is important here… not the fact a child has grown up without his Dad.
The fact that Delaney wasn’t even mad with Trace at all was weird. I get trying to be mature but she wasn’t. She avoided talking about their issues and then thought sex would heal all. Puh-lease. I couldn’t believe how quick she was to forgive him, to forget their past and just want to be with him again. Without any apologies, any explanations or any realistic conversations.
And some other things just didn’t make sense to me at all. I was really left scratching my head at Delaney.
- How was she not fucking furious with Chelsea for betraying her? Chelsea was the one who told Trace’s mother she was pregnant.
- Why would she let the family that ran her out of town & try to blackmail her… buy her families farm? I would have been fighting tooth and nail to make sure their grubby paws were kept of my father’s legacy?
- Why bring your son to a town you know has no knowledge of him because you signed a document at 16 to protect that families reputation and yet Cade looks exactly like his father so everyone will find out? She also doesn’t talk to the kids Dad before he shows up? I can’t believe she even thinks of getting back together Trace without even mentioning their kid. I can’t even. I have to stop. The amount of eye rolling from the stupidity is giving me a migraine.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
February 11, 2025
Piper Wylde's debut novel is a charming and delicious second chance romance. Wylde's writing feels effortless and easily draws the reader into this small town and the characters that enliven the space. Wylde has created this interesting corner of the universe (Willowbrook) that has some very intriguing secrets that are sure to drive this series through its highs and lows. Her characters all feel dynamic and like people I want to continue to get to know; and this story, while it ends with a happily ever after feel, it is very clear that there are still many things that will come to light so there is an openness about the finality of the main families dynamics. Wylde is very smart to leave this crack as a way to draw readers back into her world when the next novel comes out.
The Life We Left Behind is at heart a soul mate romance, in which actions from adults separate two people who are each other's strength and hope. When Delaney finds herself pregnant at 16 and no word from her boyfriend Trace, her world takes a turn and she leaves her small town, only to return 10 years after her father's death. This romance is about secrets, things left unsaid, and finding strength in oneself. This romance is about rediscover, taking a stand, and choosing the family you want. This novel balances heavy topics with the joys of family and friends. This novel is sensually sexy as Trace and Delaney see that their love can overcome anything. This novel is ultimately a truly beautiful start to want will hopefully be an illustrious career!
I love discovering new authors, and Piper Wylde is one of those authors I will be keeping an eye out for! Definitely check this novel out if you are like me and love to take a chance on a new author!
Thank you so much to Grey's Promotions for an eARC, all thoughts and opinions are my own.
The Life We Left Behind is at heart a soul mate romance, in which actions from adults separate two people who are each other's strength and hope. When Delaney finds herself pregnant at 16 and no word from her boyfriend Trace, her world takes a turn and she leaves her small town, only to return 10 years after her father's death. This romance is about secrets, things left unsaid, and finding strength in oneself. This romance is about rediscover, taking a stand, and choosing the family you want. This novel balances heavy topics with the joys of family and friends. This novel is sensually sexy as Trace and Delaney see that their love can overcome anything. This novel is ultimately a truly beautiful start to want will hopefully be an illustrious career!
I love discovering new authors, and Piper Wylde is one of those authors I will be keeping an eye out for! Definitely check this novel out if you are like me and love to take a chance on a new author!
Thank you so much to Grey's Promotions for an eARC, all thoughts and opinions are my own.
February 4, 2025
✨ ARC REVIEWS ✨
🌶️ : 1/5
RELEASE DATE: 06/02/25
EMOTIONAL ROLLERCOASTER!!!
I WAS SO CONFUSED THROUGHOUT READING THIS BOOK...
At first i was so sad and sobbing and I felt like my heart was breaking with Delaney...
And then i was happy ... Then i was laughing at her antics and Blake.. and then i'm sad again ... And then while i'm sobbing i'm laughing again ...
AND THEN COMES TRACE AND WE FELL IN LOVE AGAIN ... AND WE'RE HURT AGAIN...
It's an endless cycle...
LIKE THIS BOOK WAS A JOURNEY..... 🥲🥲
The plot keeps coming at a steady pace it's not in your face and will attack you all of a sudden but you know it's coming and it did not disappoint!! 💖
I love Delaney's relationship with Blake so muchh... AND I NEED HER HAPPY ENDING SOON!!! 🥲🥲 I NEED THIS GIRL TO BE HAPPY!! 🥲
And Cade GODDAMN THAT KID IS PROBABLY A GOLDEN KID FOR SURE 🥲🥲
Like he would be the blueprint of what every boy mama would want their 9 YO be like 🤣🤣 He's such a gooden retriever AND YES.. JUST LIKE HIS DAD!! 🥲🥲
This book hits close to home and i can relate with Delaneys story soo mucchh and I LOVE piper writing!!
AAKKHH truly obsessed!!!
The spice was such some extra sprinkles here and there and it's PERFECT !!!
I KNOOOWW IT'S SUCH A SHOCKER TO ME TOO!!! 🤣🤣
BUT TBF..
I need a match between Blake and THE wicked bitch of the west I NEED THAT ITCH TO BE SOLVED!! SHE WAS LET GO TOO EASILY 🥲🥲
I NEED THAT DRAMAA AND I KNOW BLAKE CAN DELIVER !!🤣🤣
Over all such an amazing book!! 💖💖
Book Contains:
- Single Mom
- Second Chance
- Highschool Sweethearts
- Small Town Romance
- Grief and Loss
- Parents Meddling
- Abuse
🍑 HAPPY READING YALL!!!! 🍑
🌶️ : 1/5
RELEASE DATE: 06/02/25
EMOTIONAL ROLLERCOASTER!!!
I WAS SO CONFUSED THROUGHOUT READING THIS BOOK...
At first i was so sad and sobbing and I felt like my heart was breaking with Delaney...
And then i was happy ... Then i was laughing at her antics and Blake.. and then i'm sad again ... And then while i'm sobbing i'm laughing again ...
AND THEN COMES TRACE AND WE FELL IN LOVE AGAIN ... AND WE'RE HURT AGAIN...
It's an endless cycle...
LIKE THIS BOOK WAS A JOURNEY..... 🥲🥲
The plot keeps coming at a steady pace it's not in your face and will attack you all of a sudden but you know it's coming and it did not disappoint!! 💖
I love Delaney's relationship with Blake so muchh... AND I NEED HER HAPPY ENDING SOON!!! 🥲🥲 I NEED THIS GIRL TO BE HAPPY!! 🥲
And Cade GODDAMN THAT KID IS PROBABLY A GOLDEN KID FOR SURE 🥲🥲
Like he would be the blueprint of what every boy mama would want their 9 YO be like 🤣🤣 He's such a gooden retriever AND YES.. JUST LIKE HIS DAD!! 🥲🥲
This book hits close to home and i can relate with Delaneys story soo mucchh and I LOVE piper writing!!
AAKKHH truly obsessed!!!
The spice was such some extra sprinkles here and there and it's PERFECT !!!
I KNOOOWW IT'S SUCH A SHOCKER TO ME TOO!!! 🤣🤣
BUT TBF..
I need a match between Blake and THE wicked bitch of the west I NEED THAT ITCH TO BE SOLVED!! SHE WAS LET GO TOO EASILY 🥲🥲
I NEED THAT DRAMAA AND I KNOW BLAKE CAN DELIVER !!🤣🤣
Over all such an amazing book!! 💖💖
Book Contains:
- Single Mom
- Second Chance
- Highschool Sweethearts
- Small Town Romance
- Grief and Loss
- Parents Meddling
- Abuse
🍑 HAPPY READING YALL!!!! 🍑
February 9, 2025
Delaney returns to the small town she grew up in after her father's death. Her memories here were no longer happy because of her teenage love, Trace Farrington. They were once in love, but when she got pregnant with her son, his family and he chased her out of town. Or it only looked like he didn't want the baby.
Now years later, when they meet again, his attitude towards her is not one of hate. He is actually really sweet and good with her. Surprisingly, even after all he'd done, she doesn't hate him. Her being back was the perfect opportunity for them to unravel the past. Their path to doing that was definitely not easy. There was so much misunderstanding, so much lost time, that at one point I really wondered if they would finally have their happily ever after. But their love was even stronger now, and they wanted to fight for their love and their little family. Cade was definitely his father's son. This kid surprised me in so many ways, and he was a literal mastermind. I felt so much satisfaction that the people who broke them apart finally got what they deserved.
The story was written really well because it definitely caught my attention. At one point during reading, I had the feeling that the story was literally flying. The spice was actually quite nice. The heat between Trace and Delaney was still there after so many years apart and now was flowing even more 🌶️.
Overall, I enjoyed reading "The Life We Left Behind"
***I received an ARC from Grey's Promotion, and my review is given voluntarily.***
Now years later, when they meet again, his attitude towards her is not one of hate. He is actually really sweet and good with her. Surprisingly, even after all he'd done, she doesn't hate him. Her being back was the perfect opportunity for them to unravel the past. Their path to doing that was definitely not easy. There was so much misunderstanding, so much lost time, that at one point I really wondered if they would finally have their happily ever after. But their love was even stronger now, and they wanted to fight for their love and their little family. Cade was definitely his father's son. This kid surprised me in so many ways, and he was a literal mastermind. I felt so much satisfaction that the people who broke them apart finally got what they deserved.
The story was written really well because it definitely caught my attention. At one point during reading, I had the feeling that the story was literally flying. The spice was actually quite nice. The heat between Trace and Delaney was still there after so many years apart and now was flowing even more 🌶️.
Overall, I enjoyed reading "The Life We Left Behind"
***I received an ARC from Grey's Promotion, and my review is given voluntarily.***
February 21, 2025
Piper Wylde has been added to my automatic buy and read list for authors. This first novel of the Willowbrook series was an absolute hit! It was an emotional rollercoaster that I honestly thought I would struggle with considering it revolves around the death of the FMCs father. I have a very close relationship with my own father who is unfortunately getting older, and I dread the day it comes where I won't be able to talk to him anymore. I read this in one sitting, completely engrossed in the words. All consuming, I couldn't sleep until the story ended AND NOW> will have to wait for the next book. Which brother will it be??? I want all of their stories; I want to live in Willowbrook.
I want to tell you all about this story but then it would spoil it.
This book is a must read if you love small town romances, second chances, secrets and lies, twists and turns, quirky best friends and a brooding brother just to name a few things about this book.
The only thing I dislike is now I have to wait for the next one. I can't binge read the rest of the series!!!!
I want to tell you all about this story but then it would spoil it.
This book is a must read if you love small town romances, second chances, secrets and lies, twists and turns, quirky best friends and a brooding brother just to name a few things about this book.
The only thing I dislike is now I have to wait for the next one. I can't binge read the rest of the series!!!!
February 6, 2025
Thank you @valentine_pr_, @greyspromo and @piperwyldeauthor for the opportunity to read and review!!
❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️ - loved it so much
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ - my rating
😍😍😍 - romance
😂😂 - funny moments
🌶️ - spice
Releases tomorrow!!!
Ugh I LOVE second chance romances!!! Especially if they were together back in high school or middle school days. This books starts out with Delaneys POV of how and why she left town in the first place. And let’s just say I DO NOT like Traces mom! Uuugh! Right off the bat I knew wouldn’t like Chelsea either and I was right!! But thankfully Trace takes what he wants. All the feelings this book brought me! Definitely give it a read!!
❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️ - loved it so much
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ - my rating
😍😍😍 - romance
😂😂 - funny moments
🌶️ - spice
Releases tomorrow!!!
Ugh I LOVE second chance romances!!! Especially if they were together back in high school or middle school days. This books starts out with Delaneys POV of how and why she left town in the first place. And let’s just say I DO NOT like Traces mom! Uuugh! Right off the bat I knew wouldn’t like Chelsea either and I was right!! But thankfully Trace takes what he wants. All the feelings this book brought me! Definitely give it a read!!
February 3, 2025
3.5 / 4 i don’t know yet ?
It took me 10 days to get through this book because i got a severe flu 🤒 but i loved it!
This book had all my favorite tropes : single mom, found family, small town, second chance.
loveeeed it : Trace, Cade and Denaley are the sweetest people and they deserve all the good things in the world!
I’ll remove a star because i think the end was too long ? like the inner thoughts were just too many when all we wanted is happy family moments
It took me 10 days to get through this book because i got a severe flu 🤒 but i loved it!
This book had all my favorite tropes : single mom, found family, small town, second chance.
loveeeed it : Trace, Cade and Denaley are the sweetest people and they deserve all the good things in the world!
I’ll remove a star because i think the end was too long ? like the inner thoughts were just too many when all we wanted is happy family moments
September 23, 2025
3.75
Well written and engaging for the most part. The hero was a bit too passive for my taste. Call me petty, but I would have preferred if the villains in the story had received some kind of comeuppance.
Well written and engaging for the most part. The hero was a bit too passive for my taste. Call me petty, but I would have preferred if the villains in the story had received some kind of comeuppance.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
February 9, 2025
Emotional and heartbreaking romance book with secrets, betrayal, meddling family, and misunderstandings! Recommend this story of a young couple in love that should last a lifetime, but unfortunate circumstances kept them apart! Trace and Delaney have an incredible relationship!
February 6, 2025
Amazon US / Amazon Worldwide
Delaney and Trace had that beautiful kind of love that first love usually is. She thought they were heading into a happy future together, until his wealthy family, apparently with his approval, ran her out of town and tried to buy her off so she'd keep herself and their soon to come baby away from their "upstanding" family. Since then she, with the help and support of her best friend, have raised Cade, and she's tried her best to get over Trace. But she's back in her hometown now that her father has passed, and running into Trace again has brought up all those old feelings again...
Trace never got over his first and only love leaving him. But when she comes back home to deal with her father's estate, he sees a second chance he never thought he'd have, and the possibility of even more - a family. Delaney's his soulmate, now it's time to make her remember that again.
I cannot believe this is a debut novel! It's so well written, so beautifully told that it's hard to believe this is Piper's first. Delaney is a strong woman with a huge heart, her son is an adorable little guy who's practically his father's mini me. And then there's Trace, the sweetest Golden Retriever hero who had never gotten over his first love. Their chemistry had only strengthened in the decade they'd been apart, but it took some work on both their parts to get past all the pain they'd both suffered. Lest I forget about Delaney's ride or die best friend, Blake, I have to mention how much I loved her character. Not only is she the most loyal, supportive friend, she's absolutely hilarious. I just know she's got an interesting backstory, one I am hoping will come soon, along with Trace's awesome brothers' stories. I'm officially a fan of Piper's now, and can't wait for more Willowbrook falling in love.
ARC provided by Grey's Promotions for an honest review.
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February 17, 2025
So I have mixed feelings about this. I was crying the first 2 chapters and I was enjoying the reading so much, but then the story arrived to a point in which everything changed for me and not in a good way.
There was too much drama and miscommunication for me. So many things happened in the past and too many secrets. Delaney delayed “the talk” with Trace for too long and everything seemed forced.
I am very excited about the other brothers’ stories. I hope that their story will be much better than this one.
There was too much drama and miscommunication for me. So many things happened in the past and too many secrets. Delaney delayed “the talk” with Trace for too long and everything seemed forced.
I am very excited about the other brothers’ stories. I hope that their story will be much better than this one.
June 13, 2025
Nothing New Here
Totally predictable plot that has been done to death. Author repeats information ( how is this missed? Does anyone proofread) . SPOILER: Not realistic. She does not see her BF for ten years thinking he knows he has a son but when they reunite she does not mention her son for literally half the book. Makes the whole story line awkward and disjointed. I skimmed most of this book
Totally predictable plot that has been done to death. Author repeats information ( how is this missed? Does anyone proofread) . SPOILER: Not realistic. She does not see her BF for ten years thinking he knows he has a son but when they reunite she does not mention her son for literally half the book. Makes the whole story line awkward and disjointed. I skimmed most of this book
August 5, 2025
I had a lot of hope. This story was a great idea and could go in so many directions. The characters had tons of potential. Unfortunately, nothing really happened. I kept waiting for one of the obvious plot twists to happen and they didn’t. Honestly, I only finished because my hope held strong. I got to the acknowledgment page and was shocked because…nothing ever happened. Maybe my expectations are wrong but yeah disappointing.
May 10, 2025
Too many unanswered questions
Where’s Chelsea. When is she getting her comeuppance. Is the next book still from their pov or another brother because I hate when that happens. Changing the narrative to a different character while there are still unresolved issues
Where’s Chelsea. When is she getting her comeuppance. Is the next book still from their pov or another brother because I hate when that happens. Changing the narrative to a different character while there are still unresolved issues
Read
May 3, 2025[dnf @ 32%]
February 3, 2025
This was such a great debut novel! It was also an amazing introduction to Willowbrook and all the fun people in town.
This story had me feeling so many emotions throughout, and I loved it so much. It had quite a few twists and turns that I wasn’t expecting, and it kept me hooked until the end because I never knew what secret would come out next. Delaney was such a great mom to Cade, and Cade was the most adorable and hilarious kid. I loved their relationship with Blake; she was a rock in both of their lives, but she also kept them laughing when they needed it. Delaney always did what was best for Cade in this story, and it was nice to see her listen to him and talk to him like a person rather than just a kid. Cade was only 9, but it was great to see Delaney take his opinions and thoughts into account, especially when it came to being and staying in Willowbrook. Trace Farrington was down bad for Delaney 10 years ago, and nothing changed, honestly, because as soon as she came back to town, Trace was ready to do whatever it took to have her back in his life. It was great to see that Trace was willing to wait for Delaney if that was what she needed because he wanted to earn her trust and her love again.
One thing I loved about this story was that, even though there were a lot of secrets that came out between Delaney and Trace, they were always willing to sit down and talk through them so that they understood each other as adults. It was hard because they found out that a lot of people lied to them through the years and did things that forced them apart, but watching them work through it together was amazing. They were both willing to do the work it took to find their way back to each other as adults, and to find their way to being together again.
This was such a great story and it’s hard to believe it’s a debut novel! There were so many emotions evoked during this story, but everything pieced itself together in the end. It was great to see Delaney and Trace find their way back to each other during this story. If you’re looking for a small town, second chance romance that will have you in your feels, please pick this one up! I can’t wait to see what happens next in Willowbrook!
Quotes I Loved:
"It had always been like this between us. Delaney was this impossible force of nature that drew me in until I begged for her to never let me go." -Trace
"I was a moth, and she was the moon. I couldn't resist her light." -Trace
"...that kiss in the pasture? It felt like the start of something. I still held that same blissful addiction from when we were teenagers. It reminded me how good it had felt to be loved by Trace Farrington." -Delaney
"There had never been anything as perfect as the time I spent with Delaney. It shattered my soul and remade me into a better man every single time." -Trace
Delaney: You did all this for me?
Trace: I'd capture the stars and fill the pond with them if you wanted me to.
Thank you, Piper and Grey's Promotions, for providing me with an ARC!
This story had me feeling so many emotions throughout, and I loved it so much. It had quite a few twists and turns that I wasn’t expecting, and it kept me hooked until the end because I never knew what secret would come out next. Delaney was such a great mom to Cade, and Cade was the most adorable and hilarious kid. I loved their relationship with Blake; she was a rock in both of their lives, but she also kept them laughing when they needed it. Delaney always did what was best for Cade in this story, and it was nice to see her listen to him and talk to him like a person rather than just a kid. Cade was only 9, but it was great to see Delaney take his opinions and thoughts into account, especially when it came to being and staying in Willowbrook. Trace Farrington was down bad for Delaney 10 years ago, and nothing changed, honestly, because as soon as she came back to town, Trace was ready to do whatever it took to have her back in his life. It was great to see that Trace was willing to wait for Delaney if that was what she needed because he wanted to earn her trust and her love again.
One thing I loved about this story was that, even though there were a lot of secrets that came out between Delaney and Trace, they were always willing to sit down and talk through them so that they understood each other as adults. It was hard because they found out that a lot of people lied to them through the years and did things that forced them apart, but watching them work through it together was amazing. They were both willing to do the work it took to find their way back to each other as adults, and to find their way to being together again.
This was such a great story and it’s hard to believe it’s a debut novel! There were so many emotions evoked during this story, but everything pieced itself together in the end. It was great to see Delaney and Trace find their way back to each other during this story. If you’re looking for a small town, second chance romance that will have you in your feels, please pick this one up! I can’t wait to see what happens next in Willowbrook!
Quotes I Loved:
"It had always been like this between us. Delaney was this impossible force of nature that drew me in until I begged for her to never let me go." -Trace
"I was a moth, and she was the moon. I couldn't resist her light." -Trace
"...that kiss in the pasture? It felt like the start of something. I still held that same blissful addiction from when we were teenagers. It reminded me how good it had felt to be loved by Trace Farrington." -Delaney
"There had never been anything as perfect as the time I spent with Delaney. It shattered my soul and remade me into a better man every single time." -Trace
Delaney: You did all this for me?
Trace: I'd capture the stars and fill the pond with them if you wanted me to.
Thank you, Piper and Grey's Promotions, for providing me with an ARC!
Read
February 12, 20252 ⭐
Antes de decidirme a leerlo, me puse a ver las reseñas y me siento engañada. Es la típica historia en la que el protagonista lastima a la protagonista, se separan, no se ven durante años, y cuando se reencuentran, ella olvida cómo le rompió el corazón e inmediatamente lo perdona, lanzándose a sus brazos.
Spoilers:
Delaney y Trace fueron novios en la adolescencia. La relación resultó en un embarazo, y él hizo que su familia solucionara el "problema" ofreciéndole dinero a cambio de que abortara, o en caso de querer tener al bebé, tenía que irse del pueblo, no exigirle nada y permitir que él firmara la renuncia a su hijo. En este punto, no todo es lo que parece, pero Delaney pasó 10 años creyendo que eso había sido lo que sucedió.
Como mencioné, pasaron una década separados, y ella tuvo que regresar a su pueblo natal para arreglar el funeral de su padre. Al reencontrarse con Trace, olvida todo lo que él le hizo y, al poco (la segunda vez que lo ve) terminan teniendo sexo, e incluso se imagina a los tres siendo una familia. Después de que él la abandonara estando embarazada, renunciara a sus derechos porque no quería conocer al niño, aún cree que todo se puede solucionar porque se siguen amando. No tiene sentido, y me enojó que no protegiera a su hijo, ya que para ella era más importante un hombre. Además, la familia de él (su madre) era mala, sabía que repudiaría al niño, le haría la vida imposible, lo insultaría y, a pesar de eso, Delaney quería que su hijo pasara por todo eso por un hombre que no valía la pena. Me desesperó que fuera tan estúpida y sumisa.
Ambos sentían que querían estar juntos y que todo sería maravilloso hasta que él vio al niño y se alejó porque estaba celoso de que ella siguiera con su vida y tuviera un hijo. (Así es, él no sabía sobre el bebé). Desde el punto de vista de Delaney, esto se vio doblemente mal, ya que reafirmaba que él no quería a su hijo. Pensé que eso sería suficiente para que se alejara y le diera prioridad al niño, pero no. Al volver a verlo, terminó de nuevo en su cama.
Después de esto, finalmente decidieron hablar y se descubre la verdad: él pensaba que ella lo había dejado porque se enteró de su infidelidad con Chelsea (quien más adelante se convertiría en su esposa). En realidad, todo fue parte de un plan doble : el padre de ella y la madre de él, junto con Chelsea. La supuesta mejor amiga de Delaney vio la oportunidad de quedarse con Trace y formó una alianza con ambos padres, sin decirles.
Luego todo es arcoíris y unicornios y son felices para siempre.
Me falto mencionar que mientras él siguió con su vida, se casó y todo eso, ella jamás tuvo novio, salió con otros o se acostó con alguien más. 🙄
Todos los personajes me cayeron mal, lo que no puedo creer es que la violenta de Chelsea no terminara en la cárcel.
Antes de decidirme a leerlo, me puse a ver las reseñas y me siento engañada. Es la típica historia en la que el protagonista lastima a la protagonista, se separan, no se ven durante años, y cuando se reencuentran, ella olvida cómo le rompió el corazón e inmediatamente lo perdona, lanzándose a sus brazos.
Spoilers:
Delaney y Trace fueron novios en la adolescencia. La relación resultó en un embarazo, y él hizo que su familia solucionara el "problema" ofreciéndole dinero a cambio de que abortara, o en caso de querer tener al bebé, tenía que irse del pueblo, no exigirle nada y permitir que él firmara la renuncia a su hijo. En este punto, no todo es lo que parece, pero Delaney pasó 10 años creyendo que eso había sido lo que sucedió.
Como mencioné, pasaron una década separados, y ella tuvo que regresar a su pueblo natal para arreglar el funeral de su padre. Al reencontrarse con Trace, olvida todo lo que él le hizo y, al poco (la segunda vez que lo ve) terminan teniendo sexo, e incluso se imagina a los tres siendo una familia. Después de que él la abandonara estando embarazada, renunciara a sus derechos porque no quería conocer al niño, aún cree que todo se puede solucionar porque se siguen amando. No tiene sentido, y me enojó que no protegiera a su hijo, ya que para ella era más importante un hombre. Además, la familia de él (su madre) era mala, sabía que repudiaría al niño, le haría la vida imposible, lo insultaría y, a pesar de eso, Delaney quería que su hijo pasara por todo eso por un hombre que no valía la pena. Me desesperó que fuera tan estúpida y sumisa.
Ambos sentían que querían estar juntos y que todo sería maravilloso hasta que él vio al niño y se alejó porque estaba celoso de que ella siguiera con su vida y tuviera un hijo. (Así es, él no sabía sobre el bebé). Desde el punto de vista de Delaney, esto se vio doblemente mal, ya que reafirmaba que él no quería a su hijo. Pensé que eso sería suficiente para que se alejara y le diera prioridad al niño, pero no. Al volver a verlo, terminó de nuevo en su cama.
Después de esto, finalmente decidieron hablar y se descubre la verdad: él pensaba que ella lo había dejado porque se enteró de su infidelidad con Chelsea (quien más adelante se convertiría en su esposa). En realidad, todo fue parte de un plan doble : el padre de ella y la madre de él, junto con Chelsea. La supuesta mejor amiga de Delaney vio la oportunidad de quedarse con Trace y formó una alianza con ambos padres, sin decirles.
Luego todo es arcoíris y unicornios y son felices para siempre.
Me falto mencionar que mientras él siguió con su vida, se casó y todo eso, ella jamás tuvo novio, salió con otros o se acostó con alguien más. 🙄
Todos los personajes me cayeron mal, lo que no puedo creer es que la violenta de Chelsea no terminara en la cárcel.
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