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Until We Break
USA Today bestselling author Violet Paige delivers a new second chance romance in a small town world full of family secrets. This steamy, military, romance brings heart, angst, and an unforgettable HEA.
I’m haunted by the summers, but mostly by him.
My life is in ruins.
Leaving the city to return to the island where I spent my summers as the new owner of a rundown marina and cottage is not what I need after a breakup, a huge career failure, and the loss of my dad. But here I am, utterly alone trying to pick up the fragments of my life in a place where memories flood me at every turn.
A terrible accident on the water with a nameless little boy, brings me face to face with Caleb O’Connor—the one—well, I thought he was the one, once. Now he’s a rescue swimmer for the Coast Guard and together we keep vigil for the child, hoping his parents claim him.
It’s hard to ignore how different he is now. The chiseled biceps. The confidence. The fact that he’s in danger every single day he wakes up. It would be easier to run, but something about Caleb makes it impossible to walk away. Yet.
He says he can’t do relationships. I should listen. Maybe he’s right. Maybe there are too many secrets between us. Too much history. But when his hands are in my hair and he pulls me close to him, all the years fade away and I feel a dangerous sense of hope.
I don’t believe in second chances. He’s already shattered my heart once, why should I believe he won’t do it again? But what if I stay?
**Until We Break is the first book in the Island Shores Series. If you love military romance, second chance love, and a tear-your-heart-out story, then make sure you download Until We Break so you can fall just as hard for Caleb and Margot.
I’m haunted by the summers, but mostly by him.
My life is in ruins.
Leaving the city to return to the island where I spent my summers as the new owner of a rundown marina and cottage is not what I need after a breakup, a huge career failure, and the loss of my dad. But here I am, utterly alone trying to pick up the fragments of my life in a place where memories flood me at every turn.
A terrible accident on the water with a nameless little boy, brings me face to face with Caleb O’Connor—the one—well, I thought he was the one, once. Now he’s a rescue swimmer for the Coast Guard and together we keep vigil for the child, hoping his parents claim him.
It’s hard to ignore how different he is now. The chiseled biceps. The confidence. The fact that he’s in danger every single day he wakes up. It would be easier to run, but something about Caleb makes it impossible to walk away. Yet.
He says he can’t do relationships. I should listen. Maybe he’s right. Maybe there are too many secrets between us. Too much history. But when his hands are in my hair and he pulls me close to him, all the years fade away and I feel a dangerous sense of hope.
I don’t believe in second chances. He’s already shattered my heart once, why should I believe he won’t do it again? But what if I stay?
**Until We Break is the first book in the Island Shores Series. If you love military romance, second chance love, and a tear-your-heart-out story, then make sure you download Until We Break so you can fall just as hard for Caleb and Margot.
320 pages, Kindle Edition
Published April 3, 2025
44 people are currently reading
1950 people want to read
About the author
Violet Paige
71 books299 followersUSA Today Bestselling author, Violet Paige, lives in North Carolina and would rather be by the water than anywhere else, maybe it’s because she’s from OBX, yes that OBX. Writing full-time, mom’ing full time and taking any stray dog that walks by the porch keep her inspired, busy and mostly exhausted, let’s be honest. She writes hot, edgy and angsty romances with strong heroines and fierce loves.
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Displaying 1 - 21 of 21 reviews
April 6, 2025
3.5 rounded up to 4…I enjoyed this story but I didn’t realize it wasn’t a standalone. Caleb and his Coast Guard job had me thinking of the movie The Guardian with Ashton Kutcher. I really felt his heartbreak over Margot leaving years ago. I kind of feel like Margot’s character was a little unfinished in this one. She’s so pessimistic and anxious but we don’t really know why. We don’t know why she left so abruptly seven years ago. They had just fallen in love again and the ending was a little abrupt. I can’t wait to see where we go in the next book!
May 5, 2025
I won this book through a Goodreads giveaway in exchange for an honest review. Thanks for choosing me.
My time on Marshoak Island has come to an end for now, but I know I'll be back soon - I'll most likely be counting down the days till the 15th. 🙃 Caleb and Margot's story was beautiful. I only wish it had been longer so that I could spend more time with them. Their journey back to one another was emotional, sweet and tender, and somehow intense at the same time. There should have been a better apology on Margot's side. She should have had to grovel a little bit before Caleb accepted her back into his life, but I am definitely happy they found their way back to one another. I couldn't see either of them without the other.
Emotions ran high, and I teared up a little. I also giggled and kicked my feet like a schoolgirl with a crush. Margot's backstory hit home, it was personal. I connected with her on a level I haven't connected with a character in a while. Her grief isn't front and center, its touched upon lightly, but it is enough to remind me of my own journey with grief after losing my dad to cancer. I cried with her as she relived it all. Caleb's strength and determination were the perfect balance to her emotional turmoil. I love that he didn't make her feel less than for letting her emotions show. I love that he was just there for her no questions asked, letting her fall apart without judgment and being her steadfast support. He's definitely top-tier book boyfriend material. 😋 ❤️
I'll be adding the rest of the authors books to my TBR as well. The way she writes her stories makes them come to life inside my head while tugging at my heartstrings, and I can't wait to read more of her work. 😊
My time on Marshoak Island has come to an end for now, but I know I'll be back soon - I'll most likely be counting down the days till the 15th. 🙃 Caleb and Margot's story was beautiful. I only wish it had been longer so that I could spend more time with them. Their journey back to one another was emotional, sweet and tender, and somehow intense at the same time. There should have been a better apology on Margot's side. She should have had to grovel a little bit before Caleb accepted her back into his life, but I am definitely happy they found their way back to one another. I couldn't see either of them without the other.
Emotions ran high, and I teared up a little. I also giggled and kicked my feet like a schoolgirl with a crush. Margot's backstory hit home, it was personal. I connected with her on a level I haven't connected with a character in a while. Her grief isn't front and center, its touched upon lightly, but it is enough to remind me of my own journey with grief after losing my dad to cancer. I cried with her as she relived it all. Caleb's strength and determination were the perfect balance to her emotional turmoil. I love that he didn't make her feel less than for letting her emotions show. I love that he was just there for her no questions asked, letting her fall apart without judgment and being her steadfast support. He's definitely top-tier book boyfriend material. 😋 ❤️
I'll be adding the rest of the authors books to my TBR as well. The way she writes her stories makes them come to life inside my head while tugging at my heartstrings, and I can't wait to read more of her work. 😊
April 12, 2025
Emege yourself in a world where life is hard, it’s not always sunshine and the prince isn’t coming to save the day. For 7 years Margot can’t forget the one summer where she felt a connection, but walked away from him. Then life leaves her without her mother, then father, her boyfriend kicks her out, her life dream crashes around her and the topping was inheriting a sinking marina on an island that holds too many memories. There is not reaching the surface from this sinking ship, except one bright star in the man who she never forgot.
They never said it would be easy, only that it will be worth it. As Margot figure out her next steps Caleb just might be the light at the end of the tunnel.
A second chance that sharks hope, and the unyielding determination to make more out of life. Caleb and Margot are characters you can relate to and the struggles they endure keep you devouring the pages. I am a bit sad and excited that there is more to come, would’ve loved the HEA now, but we get to delve into more of their lives and keep that hope that this second chance will become so much more.
I received a free copy of this book via Cherrylily ARCs and am voluntarily leaving a review.
They never said it would be easy, only that it will be worth it. As Margot figure out her next steps Caleb just might be the light at the end of the tunnel.
A second chance that sharks hope, and the unyielding determination to make more out of life. Caleb and Margot are characters you can relate to and the struggles they endure keep you devouring the pages. I am a bit sad and excited that there is more to come, would’ve loved the HEA now, but we get to delve into more of their lives and keep that hope that this second chance will become so much more.
I received a free copy of this book via Cherrylily ARCs and am voluntarily leaving a review.
April 4, 2025
This is the 1st story in the Island Shores Series that gives us a 2nd chance at love for Margot and Caleb. When Margot returns years later to inherit her uncles Marina she’s shocked of the mess. Years ago one summer as kids she fell in love then left Caleb behind. When Caleb discovers Margot has returned he’s not sure what it means for his heart as he’s never moved on. As Margot deals with the Marina her relationship with Caleb becomes something more that makes them both happy. When an accident on the water occurs involving a young boy they work together that ends up causing Caleb to be put in an unprofessional position. As adults their journey will allow them a chance to heal the past, rediscover their love and what the future may bring them!
April 4, 2025
3.5/5⭐️
Margot and Caleb first met seven years ago during the summer holidays. When she left the island, it broke Caleb’s heart. Fast forward to the present, she is back again to inherit her Uncle Walt’s estate which includes the Blue Heron Marina.
Despite the heartbreak he went through, Caleb cannot help but be attracted to Margot. They are forced to help one another when Margot unexpectedly saves a little boy during a boating accident.
As they spend more and more time together, she finally shares about the heartaches she went through in recent years. I would have loved to know why she suddenly disappeared seven years ago, and hopefully that will be explored in the next book. Do note that this book ends on a cliffhanger.
Margot and Caleb first met seven years ago during the summer holidays. When she left the island, it broke Caleb’s heart. Fast forward to the present, she is back again to inherit her Uncle Walt’s estate which includes the Blue Heron Marina.
Despite the heartbreak he went through, Caleb cannot help but be attracted to Margot. They are forced to help one another when Margot unexpectedly saves a little boy during a boating accident.
As they spend more and more time together, she finally shares about the heartaches she went through in recent years. I would have loved to know why she suddenly disappeared seven years ago, and hopefully that will be explored in the next book. Do note that this book ends on a cliffhanger.
April 2, 2025
wow, this is a nice second chance romance. but not just that it's a small town romance too.
best of both worlds, we could say, Margot has been delt a crap hand. now that she's the soul beneficiary to her uncles marina, can she finally find herself? and maybe the one guy she never really forgot.
Caleb has been quietly missing her after she disappeared without warning 7 years ago. though she's back now but is it for good? he hopes this time around, he can get her story stay
want to know more well, grab a copy, and settle in for an emotional trip for both of them
I can't wait to read book 2 to see what comes next for this couple
best of both worlds, we could say, Margot has been delt a crap hand. now that she's the soul beneficiary to her uncles marina, can she finally find herself? and maybe the one guy she never really forgot.
Caleb has been quietly missing her after she disappeared without warning 7 years ago. though she's back now but is it for good? he hopes this time around, he can get her story stay
want to know more well, grab a copy, and settle in for an emotional trip for both of them
I can't wait to read book 2 to see what comes next for this couple
April 3, 2025
This is the first in a new series and this is Margot and Caleb’s story.
Margot is having a tough time when she finds out that she is the sole beneficiary to her uncle’s rundown marina and cottage, which will bring her back to place where she spent her summers. Caleb is a rescue swimmer for the coast guards, and an accident with a little boy brings him face to face with Margot.
This is a well written emotionally roller coaster story, which has a family saga, star crossed lovers, secrets, angst, loss, second chances, and love, which leads to an entertaining, small town military romance.
I look forward to reading more from this talented author whose work I highly recommend.
Margot is having a tough time when she finds out that she is the sole beneficiary to her uncle’s rundown marina and cottage, which will bring her back to place where she spent her summers. Caleb is a rescue swimmer for the coast guards, and an accident with a little boy brings him face to face with Margot.
This is a well written emotionally roller coaster story, which has a family saga, star crossed lovers, secrets, angst, loss, second chances, and love, which leads to an entertaining, small town military romance.
I look forward to reading more from this talented author whose work I highly recommend.
April 21, 2025
The Blue Heron
This is only the beginning of Margot and Caleb's second chance. Inheriting her uncles business brings another kind of headache. However, book 1 sets up their past, background a d present situation to some degree but still has some unanswered questions. I can't wait for the next book to see if it all works out.
I received a free copy of this book via Cherrylily ARCs and am voluntarily leaving a review.
This is only the beginning of Margot and Caleb's second chance. Inheriting her uncles business brings another kind of headache. However, book 1 sets up their past, background a d present situation to some degree but still has some unanswered questions. I can't wait for the next book to see if it all works out.
I received a free copy of this book via Cherrylily ARCs and am voluntarily leaving a review.
April 26, 2025
This is the first installment in the Island Shores series. It's a well written and engaging second chance romance. Caleb and Margot's story has family drama, emotions, angst, love loss, and secrets which lead to an entertaining and heartfelt page turner. The story ends in a cliffhanger so I can't wait to read the next book in the series. Definitely recommend reading.
I received a free copy of this book via Cherrylily ARCs and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Cherrylily ARCs and am voluntarily leaving a review.
August 12, 2025
A quietly poignant romance that slowly unfolds the chemistry between two characters figuring out their past wounds. The emotional sincerity is the highlight—there’s a soft realism in how they learn to lean on each other. But at times, the pacing drags, and the conflict feels a bit too gentle for the heartache it tries to evoke. Still, if you're in for a soft, introspective healing kind of story, it offers enough warmth to stick with.
April 3, 2025
Wow! I absolutely loved this book. Amazing characters and wonderful plot. Very beautifully written and easy to read.
I read this book in one sitting and I loved every second of it. The chemistry and passion between Caleb and Margot was undeniable and sizzling.
Overall I loved this book very much. If you’re looking for a military, second chance romance then you’re going to love it.
I read this book in one sitting and I loved every second of it. The chemistry and passion between Caleb and Margot was undeniable and sizzling.
Overall I loved this book very much. If you’re looking for a military, second chance romance then you’re going to love it.
April 4, 2025
Margot and Caleb are second chance romance couple goals!
Violet did a great job of showing how they originally met and how they got to where they are now.
I don’t always like second chance romance because I feel there is only so much that can be done with that trope, but Until We Break went above and beyond.
I highly recommend this book!
Violet did a great job of showing how they originally met and how they got to where they are now.
I don’t always like second chance romance because I feel there is only so much that can be done with that trope, but Until We Break went above and beyond.
I highly recommend this book!
April 10, 2025
The author has given us an emotional story that pulls us into the lives of Margot and Caleb. The story keeps us turning the pages with a shared past, secrets, connection and second chances. The story ends with a cliffhanger leading into the next book.
I received a free copy of this book via Cherrylily ARCs and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Cherrylily ARCs and am voluntarily leaving a review.
April 15, 2025
I feel so bad for Margot because she has just went through some life changing experiences. Now she's back where she was 7 years ago and she has some decisions to make about the marina and Caleb her lost love. Wonderfully written.
I received a free copy of this book via Cherrylily ARCs and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Cherrylily ARCs and am voluntarily leaving a review.
April 9, 2025
Loved this book. Caleb and Margot were together for a summer than she just left and now after seven years away she's back. Will Caleb forgive her and will they get a second chance?.
I received a free copy of this book via Cherrylily ARCs and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Cherrylily ARCs and am voluntarily leaving a review.
April 11, 2025
Good read but leaves some questions unanswered. Caleb is good for Margot, particularly when she gets caught in her own head. The mystery of Lucas isn't as pronounced as expected when the blurb.
I received a copy of this book from the author for an honest review.
I received a copy of this book from the author for an honest review.
April 1, 2025
I love second chance romances and this one did not disappoint. A definite must read.
This is a voluntary review.
This is a voluntary review.
April 4, 2025
Arc review For a honest review in my own words on a book I read. Beautiful second chance with caleb and margot in a small town with her familie's marina the Blue Haron. Loved this story.
April 11, 2025
Margot and Caleb had me flipping pages with their beautifully written story. They gave me all the feels and touched my heart and soul. I can't wait for more stories in this series.
April 11, 2025
This was a well written emotional rollercoaster! Please note, this does end in a cliffhanger.
❤️ second chance
❤️ military
❤️ small town
❤️ second chance
❤️ military
❤️ small town
April 10, 2025
The author has given us an emotional story that pulls us into the lives of Margot and Caleb. The story keeps us turning the pages with a shared past, secrets, connection and second chances. The story ends with a cliffhanger leading into the next book.
I received a free copy of this book via Cherrylily ARCs and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Cherrylily ARCs and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Displaying 1 - 21 of 21 reviews