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Against All Odds
Will he fight against all odds to win her back?
Sable Nees has spent her whole married life being a doormat and blending into the background. When her husband leaves her for a younger woman, she reclaims her confidence. She buys a local bar, ditches her mundane job, and starts living her life on her terms.
Heath Falkner, freshly divorced, is still navigating his new normal. His ex-wife may have orchestrated his move to her hometown of Aspen, hoping for a second chance, but it’s Sable who unexpectedly captures his heart.
When their romance ignites, the town erupts in scandal, and Sable is unfairly branded a homewrecker.
With Heath trying to keep the peace with his ex and Sable struggling to keep her business afloat, their worlds collide. When Heath hesitates to put her first, Sable has had enough. She walks away.
Heath has to deal with the empty space Sable leaves behind as he learns too late that she is his second chance at love and happiness.
Against All Odds is A Modern Vintage Romance. Get a dose of classic Mills & Boon romance vibes with dual POV and a sexy touch. Indulge in your favorite tropes…
🍁 Second Chance At Love
🍁 Other Woman Drama
🍁 Single Dad
🍁 Small Town
🍁 Later In Life (40s)
🍁 Betrayal & Grovel
🍁 Complete Standalone
🍁 No Cheating
Trigger Mention of fertility issues and past miscarriages.
Sable Nees has spent her whole married life being a doormat and blending into the background. When her husband leaves her for a younger woman, she reclaims her confidence. She buys a local bar, ditches her mundane job, and starts living her life on her terms.
Heath Falkner, freshly divorced, is still navigating his new normal. His ex-wife may have orchestrated his move to her hometown of Aspen, hoping for a second chance, but it’s Sable who unexpectedly captures his heart.
When their romance ignites, the town erupts in scandal, and Sable is unfairly branded a homewrecker.
With Heath trying to keep the peace with his ex and Sable struggling to keep her business afloat, their worlds collide. When Heath hesitates to put her first, Sable has had enough. She walks away.
Heath has to deal with the empty space Sable leaves behind as he learns too late that she is his second chance at love and happiness.
Against All Odds is A Modern Vintage Romance. Get a dose of classic Mills & Boon romance vibes with dual POV and a sexy touch. Indulge in your favorite tropes…
🍁 Second Chance At Love
🍁 Other Woman Drama
🍁 Single Dad
🍁 Small Town
🍁 Later In Life (40s)
🍁 Betrayal & Grovel
🍁 Complete Standalone
🍁 No Cheating
Trigger Mention of fertility issues and past miscarriages.
334 pages, Kindle Edition
Published April 17, 2025
1300 people are currently reading
379 people want to read
About the author
Maya Alden
53 books1,111 followersA top 20 Amazon Bestselling Author, Maya Alden pens angsty contemporary romances.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 301 reviews
April 19, 2025
So, Maya Alden has a formula… sweet/nice heroine, dumbass hero, mean girl OW/family.
Definitely readable but a bit wash, rinse, repeat.
Definitely readable but a bit wash, rinse, repeat.
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April 18, 2025I was ready for the angst & pain but this book left me unsatisfied I fear
April 21, 2025
It was good. It had the proper angst, not too much and the much needed grovel.
August 12, 2025
3.5 Stars
I read this last month and never got around to writing a review. It follows the same formula as her other books, h with a sad story, H that acts badly, witchy acting OW, and a betrayal. Here we have Sable, who managed to grow into a great human being despite having shitty parents, neglectful foster parents, getting bullied by a gaggle of mean girls, and living in a town of snooty assholes.
Heath wasn’t as terrible as some of her other H’s, but his “black moment/F-up” was pretty epic and delivered quite the gut punch.
➕ The best part of the book (for me) was Sable’s vulnerability and all the yummy heartache we got to experience because she was willing to tell Heath how much he hurt her. YUM.
➖ The weakest part of the book (for me) was the lack of development behind Heath’s sudden change of feelings. This is an ongoing grump for me, I love that the H’s churn up drama from being jerks or blind dumbasses, but they typically do 180’s on a dime and it’s jarring. Here, Heath mid-sentence just decides he’s in forever love with her out of the blue mid-book when nothing leading up to that point supported it. He goes all out to make amends, it just didn’t feel super authentic because he was so wishy washy and blind before.
Bottom Line- I liked it but had the same issues I usually do. I’m never satisfied with the H’s about face or the comeuppance of the manipulative OW. They always get off way too easily. Alexa was never even called out for her behavior, and if it weren’t for the daughter being forced to do the adulting, I’m not sure anything would’ve changed.
I read this last month and never got around to writing a review. It follows the same formula as her other books, h with a sad story, H that acts badly, witchy acting OW, and a betrayal. Here we have Sable, who managed to grow into a great human being despite having shitty parents, neglectful foster parents, getting bullied by a gaggle of mean girls, and living in a town of snooty assholes.
Heath wasn’t as terrible as some of her other H’s, but his “black moment/F-up” was pretty epic and delivered quite the gut punch.
➕ The best part of the book (for me) was Sable’s vulnerability and all the yummy heartache we got to experience because she was willing to tell Heath how much he hurt her. YUM.
➖ The weakest part of the book (for me) was the lack of development behind Heath’s sudden change of feelings. This is an ongoing grump for me, I love that the H’s churn up drama from being jerks or blind dumbasses, but they typically do 180’s on a dime and it’s jarring. Here, Heath mid-sentence just decides he’s in forever love with her out of the blue mid-book when nothing leading up to that point supported it. He goes all out to make amends, it just didn’t feel super authentic because he was so wishy washy and blind before.
Bottom Line- I liked it but had the same issues I usually do. I’m never satisfied with the H’s about face or the comeuppance of the manipulative OW. They always get off way too easily. Alexa was never even called out for her behavior, and if it weren’t for the daughter being forced to do the adulting, I’m not sure anything would’ve changed.
March 19, 2025
I received an ARC of this book.
I absolutely loved it!! It had drama, angst, and a really good grovel from the Hero. So many emotions from this book. The characters are in their 40’s. I like that they are a more mature age but are not perfect. Very relatable. Maya is good at putting you through the wringer and giving you a very nice HEA.
I absolutely loved it!! It had drama, angst, and a really good grovel from the Hero. So many emotions from this book. The characters are in their 40’s. I like that they are a more mature age but are not perfect. Very relatable. Maya is good at putting you through the wringer and giving you a very nice HEA.
March 21, 2025
I loved this book. I made the mistake of starting to read it while I was traveling for business and I had to put it down, much to my annoyance. Learn from my mistake, clear your schedule before you start this book because you are not going to want to stop reading.
Heath and Sable are both in their forties and divorced when they meet. Heath is trying to co-parent with his God-awful ex-wife. Sable is trying to move on after divorcing her God-awful ex-husband.
Life has not been kind to Sable and neither have the people of Aspen. Despite all that she is kind and generous. I fell in love with her, and I am positive you are going to as well.
Heath is another story altogether. There were points throughout that I loved him and points where I did not. He was not wilfully awful he is just unwilling to deal with conflict and that puts Sable right in the line of fire, from the town and his ex-wife. He compounds this by jumping to conclusions and hurting Sable in a way that leaves her devasted. He realises his feelings run deeper than he thought a little too late. Queue the betrayal, panic, angst and grovel.
In typical Maya fashion the supporting cast in this novel are top notch, both the ones you are going to love and hate. If you like Second chance at love, OWD and later in life reads then yeah you are going to love this book.
I really cannot recommend this novel enough it is due to be publish on the 17th April so pre order now. Please read the trigger warnings at the start on this book, Maya and her team want to ensure that your mental health comes first.
If you have yet to try Maya’s books then you don’t know what you are missing out on head on over to Amazon now and grab one.
I received an ARC copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
Heath and Sable are both in their forties and divorced when they meet. Heath is trying to co-parent with his God-awful ex-wife. Sable is trying to move on after divorcing her God-awful ex-husband.
Life has not been kind to Sable and neither have the people of Aspen. Despite all that she is kind and generous. I fell in love with her, and I am positive you are going to as well.
Heath is another story altogether. There were points throughout that I loved him and points where I did not. He was not wilfully awful he is just unwilling to deal with conflict and that puts Sable right in the line of fire, from the town and his ex-wife. He compounds this by jumping to conclusions and hurting Sable in a way that leaves her devasted. He realises his feelings run deeper than he thought a little too late. Queue the betrayal, panic, angst and grovel.
In typical Maya fashion the supporting cast in this novel are top notch, both the ones you are going to love and hate. If you like Second chance at love, OWD and later in life reads then yeah you are going to love this book.
I really cannot recommend this novel enough it is due to be publish on the 17th April so pre order now. Please read the trigger warnings at the start on this book, Maya and her team want to ensure that your mental health comes first.
If you have yet to try Maya’s books then you don’t know what you are missing out on head on over to Amazon now and grab one.
I received an ARC copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
April 25, 2025
Didn't believe in the love
Hero was an ass and I seriously did not wnt her to go BACK to him. I hated Alexa and there is no way she could change her disgusting personality that fast. Juno was a good kid and I was glad she liked sable. Sable had a pretty shitty life and I was glad to see her fight her way out of her background. I just didn't believe his love. He had terrible thoughts about her and I truly hated the smarmy sex scenes. This just wasn't for me. I may have to take a break from romance again.
Hero was an ass and I seriously did not wnt her to go BACK to him. I hated Alexa and there is no way she could change her disgusting personality that fast. Juno was a good kid and I was glad she liked sable. Sable had a pretty shitty life and I was glad to see her fight her way out of her background. I just didn't believe his love. He had terrible thoughts about her and I truly hated the smarmy sex scenes. This just wasn't for me. I may have to take a break from romance again.
May 11, 2025
Maya Alden is just the queen of the drama, grovel, all the hurt feels. Honestly her books are just such an escape, and they hook you from the start!
This is a “high school never ends” romance with the golden boy and the girl from the wrong side of the track - who are now in their forties. Both recently divorced and starting over in a small town, they hit it off and decide to try casually dating. All the small town drama ensues - and I love it. Like please, I want you to keep punching me in the chest with heartbreak, I love it.
This is a “high school never ends” romance with the golden boy and the girl from the wrong side of the track - who are now in their forties. Both recently divorced and starting over in a small town, they hit it off and decide to try casually dating. All the small town drama ensues - and I love it. Like please, I want you to keep punching me in the chest with heartbreak, I love it.
April 18, 2025
This book will have you going hell no about the H to hell yes. H is a divorced dad with a teenage daughter. He followed his ex to her home town to be in his daughter’s life on a consistent basis. The issues were already there but the H did not realize it as he wanted his daughter to have parents who got along and were friends. The ex wanted him back.
The H meets the h who was divorced because her husband had cheated and thought he had gotten the younger woman pregnant. She decides to quit her job and buy a local tavern as a new start. Her life in the small town was not easy and the H’s ex and sister were her HS bullies. Not only that they had a part in a boy having sex with her and taping it. It was the h’s first time but it destroyed her reputation and she was called a slut etc.
So when her and H start spending time together he tells her he wants nothing serious just friends, companionship and sex. She agrees. The ex flips and starts making scenes calling the h home wrecker. The H does not handle these issues in the right way instead he tries to pacify the ex. The ex gets her Dad involved to hurt her new business. She starts losing customers and tries to tell the H who dismisses it.
The daughter likes the h and they get along well. It all comes to a head at the farmers market and the H hurts the h by using her past against her and takes the ex’s side basically in front of the whole town. It was annoying that he did not realize how wrong he was on his own, instead it took his daughter calling him out among other people. He realizes he loves her. He starts to help get her business back on track. Talks to his ex and her father and lays it out to stop.
He makes a public apology at a town event and starts to work on getting her back. Letters and laying it all out. She agrees to try. There is some minor drama from h’s ex. H’s ex does not get a real public set down but she does improve and makes changes for her daughter. I would have liked to have seen her show true remorse with a heartfelt apology but that would have been tricky with her character. We see the daughter graduate from college H and h are married no children and the H’s ex is engaged.
This was an entertaining read with a good redemption. I really did believe the H loved the h. I wanted their HEA. I would have loved for them to have had a surprise baby just because h’s ex partly I think cheated because they were having issues having a baby. That being said it also makes sense with her past that she would not want to go down that road. Highly recommend.
The H meets the h who was divorced because her husband had cheated and thought he had gotten the younger woman pregnant. She decides to quit her job and buy a local tavern as a new start. Her life in the small town was not easy and the H’s ex and sister were her HS bullies. Not only that they had a part in a boy having sex with her and taping it. It was the h’s first time but it destroyed her reputation and she was called a slut etc.
So when her and H start spending time together he tells her he wants nothing serious just friends, companionship and sex. She agrees. The ex flips and starts making scenes calling the h home wrecker. The H does not handle these issues in the right way instead he tries to pacify the ex. The ex gets her Dad involved to hurt her new business. She starts losing customers and tries to tell the H who dismisses it.
The daughter likes the h and they get along well. It all comes to a head at the farmers market and the H hurts the h by using her past against her and takes the ex’s side basically in front of the whole town. It was annoying that he did not realize how wrong he was on his own, instead it took his daughter calling him out among other people. He realizes he loves her. He starts to help get her business back on track. Talks to his ex and her father and lays it out to stop.
He makes a public apology at a town event and starts to work on getting her back. Letters and laying it all out. She agrees to try. There is some minor drama from h’s ex. H’s ex does not get a real public set down but she does improve and makes changes for her daughter. I would have liked to have seen her show true remorse with a heartfelt apology but that would have been tricky with her character. We see the daughter graduate from college H and h are married no children and the H’s ex is engaged.
This was an entertaining read with a good redemption. I really did believe the H loved the h. I wanted their HEA. I would have loved for them to have had a surprise baby just because h’s ex partly I think cheated because they were having issues having a baby. That being said it also makes sense with her past that she would not want to go down that road. Highly recommend.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
November 15, 2025
So I'm probably going to say something in this review that's going to get a lot of flack and you don't have to like it. But this author is so formulaic and tiring with the exact same MMCs and the exact same FMCs. Also, if you don't like white men why do you make most, if not all of your heroes white? Then say in the next sentence white man bad? I'm really tired of it. Everyone is described almost the same way. The plot almost always the same. I don't know. Maybe make your heroes come in a variety of different shapes, sizes, and colors? They're carbon cutouts of each other. The FMCs as well. And all the mean girls are white with blond hair. I had a bully growing up, and she didn't look like this. Anyways, I digress because it's annoying AF. As far as this story went? Good start then went downhill which is always the problem I have with this author. The H's feelings completely unbelievable. He just all of a sudden out of left field says he knows he loves Sable. I call bullshit. As for Sable? I will admit I liked. She acted like I expected giving her background of being in foster care. But probably the best and most responsible character in this book was Heath's daughter Juno. Little lady needed a medal being around adults like these. And why is there never any comeuppance for any of the ow's this author writes? Maybe a slap on the wrist and that's about it. So unsatisfying.
April 19, 2025
I honestly don't know why I read this. I'm just ALWAYS taken in by Maya Alden books because of the grovel trope. EVEN THOUGH, she doesn't even write it very well unfortunately. The MMCS do the most unforgivable stupid shit ever and then do the bloody bare minimum when it comes to the grovelling. This one followed the same formula as her other books, a FMC treated poorly by EVERYONE and in the most disgusting way too. And then a stupid MMC who literally needs to die for the way they treat the lady they supposedly love. 🙄 It also doesn't help that the FMC is such a doormat and needs to stand up and move on with her life.
So yes I wasn't impressed. However I will say that this one was a little better then her other onces. 🤏 Just a little. 🤷🏻♀️
But the author definitely should've made her characters younger like in their twenties at least in this book. It was just ridiculous how a bunch of 40 year olds were acting in this book. Immature and stupid. 💀🙄
So yes I wasn't impressed. However I will say that this one was a little better then her other onces. 🤏 Just a little. 🤷🏻♀️
But the author definitely should've made her characters younger like in their twenties at least in this book. It was just ridiculous how a bunch of 40 year olds were acting in this book. Immature and stupid. 💀🙄
April 17, 2025
Surprising twists and strong characters
This book was full of surprises. Just when you think you have Maya's style of writing and the way she portrays her characters figured out, she throws in a few curve-balls! I don't like spoilers so I'm not going into specifics but this was a great read with a gutsy heroine who overcame a lot. (Alot!) Living in a small town, pidgeon-holed by those who perceived themselves to be better than her. Sable rose above it all with grace and class. ( I loved the break-up scene with her ex-husband) Heath was a Dad, first and foremost. (And boy did his awesome daughter put him in his place.) But he did own his mistakes and fought to make things right. The side characters really added an extra dimension to the story. And some if them also seemed to have a depth you weren't expecting. I really enjoyed the twists and turns of this book.
This book was full of surprises. Just when you think you have Maya's style of writing and the way she portrays her characters figured out, she throws in a few curve-balls! I don't like spoilers so I'm not going into specifics but this was a great read with a gutsy heroine who overcame a lot. (Alot!) Living in a small town, pidgeon-holed by those who perceived themselves to be better than her. Sable rose above it all with grace and class. ( I loved the break-up scene with her ex-husband) Heath was a Dad, first and foremost. (And boy did his awesome daughter put him in his place.) But he did own his mistakes and fought to make things right. The side characters really added an extra dimension to the story. And some if them also seemed to have a depth you weren't expecting. I really enjoyed the twists and turns of this book.
January 13, 2025
This book was everything I didn't know I needed. This book hurt me in the best way possible but Maya has a talent for doing that. I even loved the groveling. I couldn't recommend this book enough!!
March 19, 2025
I love a book where the cheating spouse (not H) is caught by karma and this book did not disappoint.
When Sable learns of her husband’s affair and his mistresses subsequent pregnancy, Sable takes the news in and calmly asks for a divorce.
Months later as Sable moves on with her life, making positive changes, she meets fellow diviorcee Heath and they are both instantly attracted to each other. However Heath has an ex-wife who doesn’t want to let go, and Heath’s desire to keep the peace has distressing effects on Sable and her new business.
In a town where Sable has always been treated as ‘less than’, can she flourish or will her past always be thrown in her face? This story was amazing, the side characters were great and I loved that they had Sable’s back and became her people, I especially loved that Juno was a mature teen who could see the faults in her parents behaviour and called them out on it.
I loved this story, as with nearly every book of Maya’s I couldn’t put it down. Maya really is the Queen of betrayal, angst and grovel. I liked that Heath recognised the damage he’d done and I felt that he redeemed himself through his actions and grovel.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
When Sable learns of her husband’s affair and his mistresses subsequent pregnancy, Sable takes the news in and calmly asks for a divorce.
Months later as Sable moves on with her life, making positive changes, she meets fellow diviorcee Heath and they are both instantly attracted to each other. However Heath has an ex-wife who doesn’t want to let go, and Heath’s desire to keep the peace has distressing effects on Sable and her new business.
In a town where Sable has always been treated as ‘less than’, can she flourish or will her past always be thrown in her face? This story was amazing, the side characters were great and I loved that they had Sable’s back and became her people, I especially loved that Juno was a mature teen who could see the faults in her parents behaviour and called them out on it.
I loved this story, as with nearly every book of Maya’s I couldn’t put it down. Maya really is the Queen of betrayal, angst and grovel. I liked that Heath recognised the damage he’d done and I felt that he redeemed himself through his actions and grovel.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
March 19, 2025
I was given the opportunity to read this book as an ARC reader. I just have to say that Maya did not disappoint. I like to read a story that hooks me from the beginning and keeps me enthralled until the end and Maya does that. I love how she touches on topics that shows the ugly side of people and how we can rise up above the bullying and hate with her strong fmc. She had me on a roller coaster of emotions from the beginning and I would have to say that Maya is my favorite author of all time because her stories have heart her topics are something we all can learn from.
April 17, 2025
I can't recommend this book enough!
I haven't been able to put it down. Sable and Heath honestly have my heart and both of them deserve the world. Everything Maya Alden writes is excellent and I patiently wait for the next one. But this is genuinely one of my favourites. So make sure you read this book as it will stay in your heart forever ❤
I haven't been able to put it down. Sable and Heath honestly have my heart and both of them deserve the world. Everything Maya Alden writes is excellent and I patiently wait for the next one. But this is genuinely one of my favourites. So make sure you read this book as it will stay in your heart forever ❤
April 28, 2025
Wow. It's 1.43 am, and I'm reviewing the book.. shows how good the book was.. both the main characters r divorced when they meet. Both r in their 40s!!!! So they've seen life n are responsible, mature citizens!!!
He, Heath, is rich. She, Sable, was from the trailer side of the world! So the world is not kind to her..she experienced it, is used to it, still, she has managed to collect herself n move ahead come what may.. she is ok, financially...
The hero was really sweet and mature and understanding..ok maybe up to 50% of the book..then it all becomes interesting when he misjudged a situation and blames the heroine. The heroine is hurt but is used to it. She continues with her life.
The hero is made aware of his mistakes, and he grovels and has to do a lot of things to win her back, and it is beautiful! A very satisfying grovel!!!!
We meet some characters who were not good in the past but are ready to apologise n be better now
The owd is from the hero's ex wife, Alexa, ... and her ex husband, Jack, is one special egoistic idiot..read the book to know more about him/them!!
The hero's friends/ family looks good..
The cutest character was the hero's daugther, Juno. in her teens and so so mature!! Yet so sweet..
Theres one incident involving a Chanel bag and it was kind of funny and amusing..dont worry ..soon the book wil release and you all will get to read evenrything about it!!
I dont know how many of the characters we will meet again, but the good ones definitely left their mark n were interesting n I'd love to read more about them !!!
There's a TW at the start , pls go through it.
Maya has delivered yet again n Sable n Heath were absolutely lovely n beautiful together as a couple!!
I'd recommend everyone to read this book n have a good time!!!
He, Heath, is rich. She, Sable, was from the trailer side of the world! So the world is not kind to her..she experienced it, is used to it, still, she has managed to collect herself n move ahead come what may.. she is ok, financially...
The hero was really sweet and mature and understanding..ok maybe up to 50% of the book..then it all becomes interesting when he misjudged a situation and blames the heroine. The heroine is hurt but is used to it. She continues with her life.
The hero is made aware of his mistakes, and he grovels and has to do a lot of things to win her back, and it is beautiful! A very satisfying grovel!!!!
We meet some characters who were not good in the past but are ready to apologise n be better now
The owd is from the hero's ex wife, Alexa, ... and her ex husband, Jack, is one special egoistic idiot..read the book to know more about him/them!!
The hero's friends/ family looks good..
The cutest character was the hero's daugther, Juno. in her teens and so so mature!! Yet so sweet..
Theres one incident involving a Chanel bag and it was kind of funny and amusing..dont worry ..soon the book wil release and you all will get to read evenrything about it!!
I dont know how many of the characters we will meet again, but the good ones definitely left their mark n were interesting n I'd love to read more about them !!!
There's a TW at the start , pls go through it.
Maya has delivered yet again n Sable n Heath were absolutely lovely n beautiful together as a couple!!
I'd recommend everyone to read this book n have a good time!!!
April 18, 2025
I think that with the author posting the whole betrayal scene as spoilers and teasers kind of ruins, the gut punch moment for me.
3 it's probably me stars
3 it's probably me stars
April 20, 2025
Writing was repetitive and just a bit cringy in dialogue because it was just so cliche. The mmc was awful.
March 19, 2025
I was very fortunate to receive ARC for Against All Odds and read it in one sitting. Where do I even start with this masterpiece? Sable...I relate so much to her especially on what she went through with those who bullied her in school. I was also the poor kid and didn't have much and there were many who made sure I knew that. It's hard to deal with and as you get older your faith in others is diminished because you are never sure of their intentions. Sable went through that but she opened her self up to Heath and unfortunately he made a very epic mistake which had her go back to that place. Heath...I wasn't a fan at first only because of how he approached Sable with how he wanted their relationship to go but he was honest at least. Then he starts making the mistake of adhering to his ex-wife, Alexa, demands on how he should conduct his relationship with Sable. You know that is a disaster waiting to happen! Thank goodness for Juno is all I will say. Once he realizes or should I say shown the bonehead mistake he makes, then the groveling is beyond beautiful. My heart swooned all over it. Heath and Sable were couple goals in the end. The last sentence at end of book....had to fan myself. Please do not hesitate to grab this book. Again, you will never be disappointed with another Maya Alden masterpiece.
January 2, 2026
2.5 stars- this was a bit too cliche.. I had a good time during parts but it got a bit weird hahaha. The ending was satisfying though!!
It had some good angst as well, which I’ve been craving lately
It had some good angst as well, which I’ve been craving lately
April 20, 2025
I do like the angst in MA's books, but I seem to always feel the h could have - and should have - got a better H in the end.
April 17, 2025
My rating: 4 stars
What I loved: I loved how Heath’s(H) daughter told him how wrong he was. I like when a child puts their parents in their places and she did just that. Im glad that Heath ex’s did better at the end. I loved how Sable(h) ex got what he deserved. Lastly, it was great to see Sable get friends who were there for her. The way Heath went to them for help was sweet.
What I didn’t like: I didn’t like how horrible the town’s people were to Sable. Kinda of wish the ex’s fathers found some major karma, especially going after Sable’s business.
***Major Spoilers/ Details/Triggers: (h is cheated on by her husband, h was bullied by the H’s ex and her sister, h had a sex tape made of her first time without her knowing (which was shown to her classmates) h’s parents were addicts and overdosed, and H makes assumptions and yells at the h in public.) h just found out that her husband got another woman pregnant. h gets a divorce and decides to buy a local tavern. H has been divorced for over two years and has a daughter from that marriage. H’s ex still wants him. H meets the h and likes what he sees. H asks h out on a date and because it is a small town people find out. Once the H’s ex finds out, she goes to the H telling him how dating the town’s whore will damage his daughter. H decides not to broadcast the relationship with the h. They sticks to seeing each other at their homes, all the while the H still goes on dinner dates with the ex and their daughter. Ex tells the town that the h is trying to ruin her family and the ex’s father tells people to boycott the tavern the h now owns. h starts losing money and people start saying rude things to her. When she tells the H he basically brushes her off. When H shows up at the farmer’s market he over hears the h putting the ex in her place. H thinking the h is in the wrong for being rude to his ex and causing a scene in front of his daughter, tells the h that she is the problem. H tells her that she deserved all that she got in high school, and that they are over. When H gets home with his daughter she lets him know how wrong he was and that the h was sticking up for her. H realizes he messed up. h decides she wants to move and sell the tavern. H finally realizes he loves the h and goes about making things right. H goes to the h to apologize but h isn’t having any of it. H tells his ex father in law and his friends to stop boycotting the tavern, his also tells his ex that they are never getting back together and she needs to be a better person. H talks to the h’s friends and ask for help to get the h to stay. He tells the whole town how great the h’s tavern is and sends the tourists there. h finds out that her ex’s girlfriend left him and the baby wasn’t his (best part ever lol) Ex wants her back but h tells him no. H at his event, makes a public speech apologizing to the h in front of everyone. h tells the H that she is scared to be hurt again and leaves. H starts to writes notes to the h and they finally get back together. h’s ex causes some issues but the H’s ex helps out. HEA with the h moving in with the H.
Final thoughts: I really liked this book. Hoping the H’s brother gets a book.
What I loved: I loved how Heath’s(H) daughter told him how wrong he was. I like when a child puts their parents in their places and she did just that. Im glad that Heath ex’s did better at the end. I loved how Sable(h) ex got what he deserved. Lastly, it was great to see Sable get friends who were there for her. The way Heath went to them for help was sweet.
What I didn’t like: I didn’t like how horrible the town’s people were to Sable. Kinda of wish the ex’s fathers found some major karma, especially going after Sable’s business.
***Major Spoilers/ Details/Triggers: (h is cheated on by her husband, h was bullied by the H’s ex and her sister, h had a sex tape made of her first time without her knowing (which was shown to her classmates) h’s parents were addicts and overdosed, and H makes assumptions and yells at the h in public.) h just found out that her husband got another woman pregnant. h gets a divorce and decides to buy a local tavern. H has been divorced for over two years and has a daughter from that marriage. H’s ex still wants him. H meets the h and likes what he sees. H asks h out on a date and because it is a small town people find out. Once the H’s ex finds out, she goes to the H telling him how dating the town’s whore will damage his daughter. H decides not to broadcast the relationship with the h. They sticks to seeing each other at their homes, all the while the H still goes on dinner dates with the ex and their daughter. Ex tells the town that the h is trying to ruin her family and the ex’s father tells people to boycott the tavern the h now owns. h starts losing money and people start saying rude things to her. When she tells the H he basically brushes her off. When H shows up at the farmer’s market he over hears the h putting the ex in her place. H thinking the h is in the wrong for being rude to his ex and causing a scene in front of his daughter, tells the h that she is the problem. H tells her that she deserved all that she got in high school, and that they are over. When H gets home with his daughter she lets him know how wrong he was and that the h was sticking up for her. H realizes he messed up. h decides she wants to move and sell the tavern. H finally realizes he loves the h and goes about making things right. H goes to the h to apologize but h isn’t having any of it. H tells his ex father in law and his friends to stop boycotting the tavern, his also tells his ex that they are never getting back together and she needs to be a better person. H talks to the h’s friends and ask for help to get the h to stay. He tells the whole town how great the h’s tavern is and sends the tourists there. h finds out that her ex’s girlfriend left him and the baby wasn’t his (best part ever lol) Ex wants her back but h tells him no. H at his event, makes a public speech apologizing to the h in front of everyone. h tells the H that she is scared to be hurt again and leaves. H starts to writes notes to the h and they finally get back together. h’s ex causes some issues but the H’s ex helps out. HEA with the h moving in with the H.
Final thoughts: I really liked this book. Hoping the H’s brother gets a book.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
March 20, 2025
‘Against all odds’ - This was a very relatable story with plenty of challenges and emotions while staying grounded and believable. An overall gentle read for me, but others may find some events triggering (be sure to check the warnings prior).
Stable was a great character to understand and connect with; a product of her circumstances and acquiescent with what she was deserving and worthy of with her lot in life whilst weighed down by her silent struggles of self-doubt and fear of failure before finding the strength to overcome her own obstacles.
What I connected with most about this book was when Stable describes wearing a mask throughout her life; to be what she thought she needed to fulfil her expectations of what it means to be happy. But at what cost?
I genuinely enjoyed Stable and Heath's story and the progression of their relationship, all throughout rife with difficulties, conflict and challenges… helped no less by Heath's own obliviousness towards general happenings.
I liked his aha moment when the light bulb finally switched on and I was nodding along the whole time when his daughter let him have it.
Maya is easily one of my favourite authors. What draws me back over and over again is how much I can relate to so many of her stories. Her work always feels so grounded with no frills and embellishments, just raw emotions at its best.
Stable was a great character to understand and connect with; a product of her circumstances and acquiescent with what she was deserving and worthy of with her lot in life whilst weighed down by her silent struggles of self-doubt and fear of failure before finding the strength to overcome her own obstacles.
What I connected with most about this book was when Stable describes wearing a mask throughout her life; to be what she thought she needed to fulfil her expectations of what it means to be happy. But at what cost?
I genuinely enjoyed Stable and Heath's story and the progression of their relationship, all throughout rife with difficulties, conflict and challenges… helped no less by Heath's own obliviousness towards general happenings.
I liked his aha moment when the light bulb finally switched on and I was nodding along the whole time when his daughter let him have it.
Maya is easily one of my favourite authors. What draws me back over and over again is how much I can relate to so many of her stories. Her work always feels so grounded with no frills and embellishments, just raw emotions at its best.
March 20, 2025
If you love, heartache, grovel and getting your heart mended all in the span of one book, this is the book for you!
I've loved Maya's books since the first book I read of hers, but this book tops has become my new favourite book of all time!
The hate I had for the MMC, I couldn't understand how the FMC could ever trust him again.. but the grovel was just *chefs kiss* and the not in the over the top, none realistic way (IMO)
The OW annoyed me so much and while I wanted her to get beaten up or run out of town, again, it was handled in the most realistic way that I've read and again, I loved that.
This book made me smile, made me cry and made heal and I don't know how any other book will top this one (until I read Maya's next one I'm sure!)
If I could give this 100 stars I would!
(Read it as an ARC but this is my honest opinion)
I've loved Maya's books since the first book I read of hers, but this book tops has become my new favourite book of all time!
The hate I had for the MMC, I couldn't understand how the FMC could ever trust him again.. but the grovel was just *chefs kiss* and the not in the over the top, none realistic way (IMO)
The OW annoyed me so much and while I wanted her to get beaten up or run out of town, again, it was handled in the most realistic way that I've read and again, I loved that.
This book made me smile, made me cry and made heal and I don't know how any other book will top this one (until I read Maya's next one I'm sure!)
If I could give this 100 stars I would!
(Read it as an ARC but this is my honest opinion)
March 20, 2025
Another one. I was lucky to get an early arc for this book and just like all of the Maya books I’ve read this one is just as good. Sable, absolutely loved her. Her strength, love and compassion is truly beautiful. Heath, love to dislike him. Grovelling was soo good in this book but I’m still jaded with him. (Personal feelings 😂) his growth and development was great, even Alexa surprised me alittle bit. JUNO that girl was everything, she was so wise beyond her years. Definitely a good book highly recommend! Thank you Maya for another awesome book!
April 19, 2025
3.5-4 stars
It was a decent read. Angst and a strong h who stands her ground with a pitiful H who lets his ex manipulate him.
I am going to say that I need to stop reading the spoilers in Mayas newsletter because it softened the omph and gut punch moment.
It was a decent read. Angst and a strong h who stands her ground with a pitiful H who lets his ex manipulate him.
I am going to say that I need to stop reading the spoilers in Mayas newsletter because it softened the omph and gut punch moment.
March 19, 2025
ARC REVIEW
I love it ❣️❣️ I loved Sable, one of my favorite protagonists. I liked the flow of the plot; the way the interactions between the characters developed felt very real.
Some of my fav quotes:
"My love is bigger than my fear"
"Taylor’s got some wisdom, doesn’t she? Like she says, you just gotta ‘shake it off."
I love it ❣️❣️ I loved Sable, one of my favorite protagonists. I liked the flow of the plot; the way the interactions between the characters developed felt very real.
Some of my fav quotes:
"My love is bigger than my fear"
"Taylor’s got some wisdom, doesn’t she? Like she says, you just gotta ‘shake it off."
March 20, 2025
Poor sable had it so bad, nearly everyone has done her wrong 😭 I low key hated health for the first half of the book, I wasn’t sure if he would be able to redeem himself!
Maya has done it again with another 10/10 book
Maya has done it again with another 10/10 book
March 20, 2025
Arc Reader!!
I cannot put into words how much I loved this book. It's strange to read a book where the main characters are in their late 30s early 40s, and honestly it felt like a breath of fresh air.
Definitely recommend reading !
I cannot put into words how much I loved this book. It's strange to read a book where the main characters are in their late 30s early 40s, and honestly it felt like a breath of fresh air.
Definitely recommend reading !
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