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Willow Brook Falls #2
Twisted Fate
Delilah Jones was once my saving grace. Now, she might just become my ruin.
Normally I’d do everything to avoid her in our small town of Willow Brook Falls, but that's impossible since she's now my daughter’s new nanny. She’s also way too young for me, and completely off limits.
But there's just one problem. Even after all this time, I still can’t seem to resist her.
I haven’t thought about another woman since I lost my wife, let alone wanting to touch one.
But that all changes the moment Delilah’s lips touch mine.
With time, her affection for my child grows but so does our attraction… and the complication that comes with it.
Because Delilah isn't just any nanny, she’s my daughter's mother. And that may just ruin the both of us.
Twisted Fate is a complete standalone with no cliffhanger and a guaranteed HEA
*This book includes sensitive subject matter that may be difficult for some readers. Please refer to the author's website for a list of TWs.
Normally I’d do everything to avoid her in our small town of Willow Brook Falls, but that's impossible since she's now my daughter’s new nanny. She’s also way too young for me, and completely off limits.
But there's just one problem. Even after all this time, I still can’t seem to resist her.
I haven’t thought about another woman since I lost my wife, let alone wanting to touch one.
But that all changes the moment Delilah’s lips touch mine.
With time, her affection for my child grows but so does our attraction… and the complication that comes with it.
Because Delilah isn't just any nanny, she’s my daughter's mother. And that may just ruin the both of us.
Twisted Fate is a complete standalone with no cliffhanger and a guaranteed HEA
*This book includes sensitive subject matter that may be difficult for some readers. Please refer to the author's website for a list of TWs.
388 pages, Kindle Edition
First published July 6, 2023
549 people are currently reading
1541 people want to read
About the author
Ashley Cade
18 books927 followersAshley is a USA Today Bestselling author who likes her small town romance extra spicy with a touch of angst and a splash of humor. Her swoon worthy heroes will melt your kindles (along with your undergarments). She resides in Ohio with her husband and two sons where she pens emotionally gripping love stories about imperfect people who find their happily ever after.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 146 reviews
November 24, 2024
SPOILERS...............SPOILERS..................SPOILERS (nts edit this review, sheesh)
1.
10/10 Best Growth and Redemption of a hero. Kudos to the author.
2.
His push-pull yo-yo master puppeteer antics broke her heart and nearly crushed her spirit entirely. I hate him for that.
3.
The h resembles his wife 99.99%. Only he and her family can tell the difference. The living breathing spitting image of his dead wife in looks, mannerisms, voice.
4.
He’s obsessed with the h
S
P
O
I
L
E
R
S
Delilah was in her second year of college when she was drugged and raped by her ex-bf. (At least she thinks it’s him but never reports it.)
It was a triple blow because she realized she was pregnant, had to leave college and decided the better option for her baby would be to have her adopted.
After the birth and adoption, she was in a very very dark place for a while but with therapy, her mom’s - and to a certain extent her close-knit extended family’s support - she resumed her studies and obtained her degree in Education. Despite the open adoption and the many invitations to be in her daughter’s life, she has never healed enough to endure being near her daughter; was never in a place to fully deal with the trauma of the rape and its consequences.
It’s now 4 years later, the h is back in her hometown and her daughter’s adoptive mom - Delilah’s cousin, Sarah has just passed away. Sarah’s husband, Vance (the hero), and little Charlotte (Charlie) are grief stricken. Sarah and Delilah’s family are devastated, and they mourn together.
Vance and Delilah haven’t spent much time in each other’s company. Sarah was in her late twenties when they adopted Charlotte and Delilah is much younger than her. What Delilah did see is that Vance adored Sarah and that they were soulmates, meant to be together forever.
Vance saw how much Delilah resembled Sarah, how close the cousins were, and he was grateful to her for choosing them to adopt Charlie.
The Hxh’s first meet up after 3.5 years is at the funeral. It’s deeply intense from the get-go.
See point 3 above.
That connection between them never lets up from this point on.
Hec. Tic.
My palms were literally sweating.
I struggled to read slowly and stay in the moment because I desperately needed to find out where the author was going with this.
The author uses her words well.
Not once did I swipe, speed read, skip back & forward. For once I didn’t read the last page first nor did I get spoilers beforehand. I’m glad I approached their story this way.
In a nutshell:
Charlotte is not coping without Sarah and was asked to leave 2 preschools because of her behavioral issues.
Delilah feels guilty that she couldn’t make time for Sarah and Charlotte. She’s finally ready, desperate, in fact, to be with her daughter, so she offers to be her nanny and tutor for a few days a week until Charlotte is okay to go back to school.
Vance is 100% against the idea:
She resembles his wife too much, she’s too young, she’s a threat to his relationship with his daughter, etc. etc. The list is endless.
But he doesn’t have a choice.
So, these 3 have to deal with their new realities and this is where - even when no progress is made - I was glued to the pages that bring their story to life.
It’s stop-start, one step forward, 10 steps back. Tears, anxiety, sleepless nights and endless days of pain and trauma. Anger and hopelessness and every other negative emotion related to the loss of a wife, mother, family member. The bittersweet re-connecting of a mother and daughter. The realization that you’re attracted to the very much alive carbon copy of your dead wife. The fact that you desire and yearn for your dead cousin’s husband when no one else has managed to break past your barriers in this respect.
These are just a FEW of the issues this book deals with.
There's always one character who does too much, who feels more, who has the most to lose. In this case it’s the h. She makes all the sacrifices and all the adjustments. She gives so much to both Charlie and Vance even while she’s trying to become whole herself. She’s more than the nanny in their lives: she mothers and cooks and teaches. She boosts him up and endures his pitiful hurtful advance and retreat cycle. His kindness and cruelness. She’s beautiful and brave and vulnerable. I felt her pain the most. Everyone suffers their own torment, yes, but kids are resilient, husbands have already had their soulmates but traumatized, betrayed, downtrodden young girls like Delilah have to overcome anguish on another scale entirely. Her very existence is a balm and a burden to those closest to her. I also don’t like Delilah’s pain and suffering at the hands of the two men she allowed into her life.
His soul is in torture.
He’s half the man he was and misses his wife with his whole being. He doesn’t want to live without her. She’s his beginning and end & he always thinking about her or crying for her. Mourning the other half of his soul.
So, their daughter is the one thing he has left of her and he’s holding on tightly.
He’s also guilt-ridden about what he perceives is his part in her early demise. They fought over her texting - inappropriately - with another man; his jealousy got the better of him and he stormed off. That was the last time he saw her alive and probably what contributed to her aneurism which resulted in her death.
He has many other issues he doesn’t confront until it’s too late.
The most painful part is where he compares the h to his wife and how he sees his wife in her. Constantly. Every chapter, every day they’re together. Not once, however, during their actual sexy intimate moments does he mistake her for his wife. I admit I would’ve stopped reading at that point, no matter how invested I was.
I’m breathless just thinking about the spiral and the eventual fallout.
It’s front and center and I felt it all. Their struggle to overcome. His resistance. His capitulation. The tabooness. The passion. The laughter. The tenderness.
I’m very rarely taken by surprise by third act angst because I’m expecting it and more or less know how it’ll be executed.
Not this time.
Is it possible to do a double take while reading? Because that’s what I felt I did. One minute I’m finally feeling fulfilled with this book at this sweet sexy titillating yet wholesome point in their lives and the next thing..
((((WHAM))))
I didn’t see it coming.
He went from lazily sexy to evil personified within a span of seconds.
His words and thoughts and deeds are fucking awful. Vicious and cruel. All the more impactful because it’s in his POV as well and the reader knows he believes every hateful hurtful harmful word he’s spewing. He disgusted me from that moment on and even now I wish she never forgave him.
“Did you think I wouldn’t notice?” he seethed.
“I-I don’t know what—”
“How could you do this?”
“Do what?” I asked, confusion turning to irritation. What does he think I did?
“Steal Sarah’s necklace!” Stunned disbelief had me shaking my head. “I didn’t. This is mine,” I declared, clutching the silver charm dangling from its chain.
…
“Dear God,” he whispered, the color draining from his face.
“You’re trying to replace her, aren’t you?”
Pain sliced through me at the accusation.
“What? No! I would never—”
“Has that been your plan all along? Was it just about me, or was this some sick, twisted attempt to get Charlie back?”
“Vance, listen to me,” I began, begging for him to think rationally as my heart slowly cracked open. How could he think that?
“You’re not going to take her from me.”
“I’m not trying to. I swear.”
“And you will never replace Sarah.” A sob ripped from my throat.
…
Tears rolled down my cheeks as he stared at me like I was a stranger. Like he didn’t know me at all. And I realized, he didn’t. If he thought I was capable of doing what he accused me of, then he never really knew me at all.
…
“You need to leave,” he said, his expression turning to stone. “Vance.” My voice was weak, all the fight dissolving from my body. “Now,” he demanded, his tone low and menacing, brokering no argument.
…
I couldn’t believe she had the nerve to take Sarah’s necklace. When had she gone into my room to get it? Did she really think I wouldn’t notice she was wearing my dead wife’s jewelry? She was seriously demented if that was what she thought.
…
She played her part well; I’d give her that. She had become so enmeshed in our lives, I no longer questioned her intentions. I even included her in decisions about Charlie, letting the fact that she was Charlie’s biological mom cloud my judgment. I trusted her, and she broke that trust when she went into my room and took something that belonged to my wife, the wife she knew I was still mourning. That’s what I get for sleeping with the nanny.
Then the ridiculous excuse of an apology:
“I accused you of some pretty terrible things,” he continued. “And I was wrong. So damn wrong.”
“Why did you say those things?” I asked, my voice cracking.
“I thought you were wearing Sarah’s necklace. I believed you’d gone into our room and taken it.”
“I told you I didn’t do that. Why didn’t you believe me?”
“I don’t know. But I believe you now. I’m so sorry.”
“Why?”
“Why what?”
“Why do you believe me now?” I doubted he suddenly had an epiphany and realized I wasn’t a thief and imposter.
He glanced away, shame washing over his features. “Because I found the necklace.”
My strong heroine:
“The words you spoke in anger were the silent thoughts you never gave voice to.”
“I’m tired of being a poor man’s substitute for the woman you really want. And I won’t let anyone treat me like their backup plan anymore. I deserve to be someone’s first choice.”
His come-to-Jesus-moment:
As much as I hated to admit it, I hadn’t taken the time to properly grieve Sarah’s death. I was lonely and devastated and needed a reprieve from the pain, even if it was temporary, and she’d been a soothing balm to the deep ache left by the loss of my wife. That didn’t negate my feelings for Delilah, but I came to her a broken man. I wasn’t whole, and I needed to put myself back together before I could love someone the way they deserved.
So, he works on himself.
Grief counselling, spending time with family, setting boundaries with his interfering mother, letting Charlie continue to see Delilah.
He visits Sarah’s grave and unburdens himself after which he felt lighter. More at peace.
Charlie and I talked about Sarah all the time so I could keep her memory alive. But at some point, we had to move on. We couldn’t dwell on the past and relive the heartache of losing her. There was a future for us. We were still here, still breathing, and we owed it to Sarah to make the most of this life.
…
The one thing I didn’t seek absolution for was falling in love with Delilah. I regretted not waiting and for rushing into a relationship with her before my heart was ready, but I could never regret loving her. My only regret was hurting her the way I did.
He becomes a better man and partner and, while to my mind, she gives in too easily, he proves himself worthy in her eyes. In her family’s eyes.
“I’ve waited one hundred and eighty-seven days to tell you how I feel. I’ll wait another one hundred and eighty-seven more if that’s how long it takes for you to give me another chance. Hell, I'll wait a thousand if I have to. But I want you. I want only you. You are my first choice, my everything. I am completely at your mercy.”
…
She needed to know I would always be on her side, that I’d always protect her, and aside from Charlie, she was my number one priority.
…
“I want a real relationship with you, not the sneaking around and stolen kisses we had before. I don’t want to hide what we are to each other. I’m not ashamed of loving you.”
He then proceeds over time to do just that and more. Oh, she’s loved and cherished, indeed.
His growth and redemption are next level BUT I want MORE for Delilah.
Maybe an outtake with his continued loyalty, commitment and increasing love will change my mind?
I doubt it, because I don’t like the epilogue where they’re leaving his and Sarah’s home to start afresh in their own one:
…It didn’t mean I would ever forget Sarah or stop loving her, but I could love Delilah too. It was hard to reconcile both feelings existing simultaneously at first. That was why I fought so hard not to fall for Delilah. How could I love another woman when my heart wouldn’t forget the first? Then I realized, it didn’t have to.
…
just when you thought you’d given it all to one person, another came along and showed you there was more than enough to go around.
…
Excited as I was to start this new chapter of my life, I was sad about what I was leaving behind. The home I’d built with Sarah and Charlie, the memories we made in that house, good and bad.
I didn't need to read that in an epilogue.
The focus on my last page of any Romance I read must be on the Hxh not on the ow and Hxh.
I love the relatable family bonds and interaction between the aunts and cousins and sisters - one of my favourite parts of the book.
I love that Vance is obsessed with Delilah
I love little Charlie and how she and Delilah come together and their forever bond
Everyone cries
All the time
I cried
Minus 1 star but I should deduct more:
No comeuppance for the vile om
No clarity on the ow’s affair
No absolute solid HEA
Does she tell Vance who Charlie’s bio dad is?
Anyway, I’m going to reread this book sans the epilogue, something I haven’t been tempted to do with any new reads lately.
1.
10/10 Best Growth and Redemption of a hero. Kudos to the author.
2.
His push-pull yo-yo master puppeteer antics broke her heart and nearly crushed her spirit entirely. I hate him for that.
3.
The h resembles his wife 99.99%. Only he and her family can tell the difference. The living breathing spitting image of his dead wife in looks, mannerisms, voice.
4.
He’s obsessed with the h
S
P
O
I
L
E
R
S
Delilah was in her second year of college when she was drugged and raped by her ex-bf. (At least she thinks it’s him but never reports it.)
It was a triple blow because she realized she was pregnant, had to leave college and decided the better option for her baby would be to have her adopted.
After the birth and adoption, she was in a very very dark place for a while but with therapy, her mom’s - and to a certain extent her close-knit extended family’s support - she resumed her studies and obtained her degree in Education. Despite the open adoption and the many invitations to be in her daughter’s life, she has never healed enough to endure being near her daughter; was never in a place to fully deal with the trauma of the rape and its consequences.
It’s now 4 years later, the h is back in her hometown and her daughter’s adoptive mom - Delilah’s cousin, Sarah has just passed away. Sarah’s husband, Vance (the hero), and little Charlotte (Charlie) are grief stricken. Sarah and Delilah’s family are devastated, and they mourn together.
Vance and Delilah haven’t spent much time in each other’s company. Sarah was in her late twenties when they adopted Charlotte and Delilah is much younger than her. What Delilah did see is that Vance adored Sarah and that they were soulmates, meant to be together forever.
Vance saw how much Delilah resembled Sarah, how close the cousins were, and he was grateful to her for choosing them to adopt Charlie.
The Hxh’s first meet up after 3.5 years is at the funeral. It’s deeply intense from the get-go.
See point 3 above.
That connection between them never lets up from this point on.
Hec. Tic.
My palms were literally sweating.
I struggled to read slowly and stay in the moment because I desperately needed to find out where the author was going with this.
The author uses her words well.
Not once did I swipe, speed read, skip back & forward. For once I didn’t read the last page first nor did I get spoilers beforehand. I’m glad I approached their story this way.
In a nutshell:
Charlotte is not coping without Sarah and was asked to leave 2 preschools because of her behavioral issues.
Delilah feels guilty that she couldn’t make time for Sarah and Charlotte. She’s finally ready, desperate, in fact, to be with her daughter, so she offers to be her nanny and tutor for a few days a week until Charlotte is okay to go back to school.
Vance is 100% against the idea:
She resembles his wife too much, she’s too young, she’s a threat to his relationship with his daughter, etc. etc. The list is endless.
But he doesn’t have a choice.
So, these 3 have to deal with their new realities and this is where - even when no progress is made - I was glued to the pages that bring their story to life.
It’s stop-start, one step forward, 10 steps back. Tears, anxiety, sleepless nights and endless days of pain and trauma. Anger and hopelessness and every other negative emotion related to the loss of a wife, mother, family member. The bittersweet re-connecting of a mother and daughter. The realization that you’re attracted to the very much alive carbon copy of your dead wife. The fact that you desire and yearn for your dead cousin’s husband when no one else has managed to break past your barriers in this respect.
These are just a FEW of the issues this book deals with.
There's always one character who does too much, who feels more, who has the most to lose. In this case it’s the h. She makes all the sacrifices and all the adjustments. She gives so much to both Charlie and Vance even while she’s trying to become whole herself. She’s more than the nanny in their lives: she mothers and cooks and teaches. She boosts him up and endures his pitiful hurtful advance and retreat cycle. His kindness and cruelness. She’s beautiful and brave and vulnerable. I felt her pain the most. Everyone suffers their own torment, yes, but kids are resilient, husbands have already had their soulmates but traumatized, betrayed, downtrodden young girls like Delilah have to overcome anguish on another scale entirely. Her very existence is a balm and a burden to those closest to her. I also don’t like Delilah’s pain and suffering at the hands of the two men she allowed into her life.
His soul is in torture.
He’s half the man he was and misses his wife with his whole being. He doesn’t want to live without her. She’s his beginning and end & he always thinking about her or crying for her. Mourning the other half of his soul.
So, their daughter is the one thing he has left of her and he’s holding on tightly.
He’s also guilt-ridden about what he perceives is his part in her early demise. They fought over her texting - inappropriately - with another man; his jealousy got the better of him and he stormed off. That was the last time he saw her alive and probably what contributed to her aneurism which resulted in her death.
He has many other issues he doesn’t confront until it’s too late.
The most painful part is where he compares the h to his wife and how he sees his wife in her. Constantly. Every chapter, every day they’re together. Not once, however, during their actual sexy intimate moments does he mistake her for his wife. I admit I would’ve stopped reading at that point, no matter how invested I was.
I’m breathless just thinking about the spiral and the eventual fallout.
It’s front and center and I felt it all. Their struggle to overcome. His resistance. His capitulation. The tabooness. The passion. The laughter. The tenderness.
I’m very rarely taken by surprise by third act angst because I’m expecting it and more or less know how it’ll be executed.
Not this time.
Is it possible to do a double take while reading? Because that’s what I felt I did. One minute I’m finally feeling fulfilled with this book at this sweet sexy titillating yet wholesome point in their lives and the next thing..
((((WHAM))))
I didn’t see it coming.
He went from lazily sexy to evil personified within a span of seconds.
His words and thoughts and deeds are fucking awful. Vicious and cruel. All the more impactful because it’s in his POV as well and the reader knows he believes every hateful hurtful harmful word he’s spewing. He disgusted me from that moment on and even now I wish she never forgave him.
“Did you think I wouldn’t notice?” he seethed.
“I-I don’t know what—”
“How could you do this?”
“Do what?” I asked, confusion turning to irritation. What does he think I did?
“Steal Sarah’s necklace!” Stunned disbelief had me shaking my head. “I didn’t. This is mine,” I declared, clutching the silver charm dangling from its chain.
…
“Dear God,” he whispered, the color draining from his face.
“You’re trying to replace her, aren’t you?”
Pain sliced through me at the accusation.
“What? No! I would never—”
“Has that been your plan all along? Was it just about me, or was this some sick, twisted attempt to get Charlie back?”
“Vance, listen to me,” I began, begging for him to think rationally as my heart slowly cracked open. How could he think that?
“You’re not going to take her from me.”
“I’m not trying to. I swear.”
“And you will never replace Sarah.” A sob ripped from my throat.
…
Tears rolled down my cheeks as he stared at me like I was a stranger. Like he didn’t know me at all. And I realized, he didn’t. If he thought I was capable of doing what he accused me of, then he never really knew me at all.
…
“You need to leave,” he said, his expression turning to stone. “Vance.” My voice was weak, all the fight dissolving from my body. “Now,” he demanded, his tone low and menacing, brokering no argument.
…
I couldn’t believe she had the nerve to take Sarah’s necklace. When had she gone into my room to get it? Did she really think I wouldn’t notice she was wearing my dead wife’s jewelry? She was seriously demented if that was what she thought.
…
She played her part well; I’d give her that. She had become so enmeshed in our lives, I no longer questioned her intentions. I even included her in decisions about Charlie, letting the fact that she was Charlie’s biological mom cloud my judgment. I trusted her, and she broke that trust when she went into my room and took something that belonged to my wife, the wife she knew I was still mourning. That’s what I get for sleeping with the nanny.
Then the ridiculous excuse of an apology:
“I accused you of some pretty terrible things,” he continued. “And I was wrong. So damn wrong.”
“Why did you say those things?” I asked, my voice cracking.
“I thought you were wearing Sarah’s necklace. I believed you’d gone into our room and taken it.”
“I told you I didn’t do that. Why didn’t you believe me?”
“I don’t know. But I believe you now. I’m so sorry.”
“Why?”
“Why what?”
“Why do you believe me now?” I doubted he suddenly had an epiphany and realized I wasn’t a thief and imposter.
He glanced away, shame washing over his features. “Because I found the necklace.”
My strong heroine:
“The words you spoke in anger were the silent thoughts you never gave voice to.”
“I’m tired of being a poor man’s substitute for the woman you really want. And I won’t let anyone treat me like their backup plan anymore. I deserve to be someone’s first choice.”
His come-to-Jesus-moment:
As much as I hated to admit it, I hadn’t taken the time to properly grieve Sarah’s death. I was lonely and devastated and needed a reprieve from the pain, even if it was temporary, and she’d been a soothing balm to the deep ache left by the loss of my wife. That didn’t negate my feelings for Delilah, but I came to her a broken man. I wasn’t whole, and I needed to put myself back together before I could love someone the way they deserved.
So, he works on himself.
Grief counselling, spending time with family, setting boundaries with his interfering mother, letting Charlie continue to see Delilah.
He visits Sarah’s grave and unburdens himself after which he felt lighter. More at peace.
Charlie and I talked about Sarah all the time so I could keep her memory alive. But at some point, we had to move on. We couldn’t dwell on the past and relive the heartache of losing her. There was a future for us. We were still here, still breathing, and we owed it to Sarah to make the most of this life.
…
The one thing I didn’t seek absolution for was falling in love with Delilah. I regretted not waiting and for rushing into a relationship with her before my heart was ready, but I could never regret loving her. My only regret was hurting her the way I did.
He becomes a better man and partner and, while to my mind, she gives in too easily, he proves himself worthy in her eyes. In her family’s eyes.
“I’ve waited one hundred and eighty-seven days to tell you how I feel. I’ll wait another one hundred and eighty-seven more if that’s how long it takes for you to give me another chance. Hell, I'll wait a thousand if I have to. But I want you. I want only you. You are my first choice, my everything. I am completely at your mercy.”
…
She needed to know I would always be on her side, that I’d always protect her, and aside from Charlie, she was my number one priority.
…
“I want a real relationship with you, not the sneaking around and stolen kisses we had before. I don’t want to hide what we are to each other. I’m not ashamed of loving you.”
He then proceeds over time to do just that and more. Oh, she’s loved and cherished, indeed.
His growth and redemption are next level BUT I want MORE for Delilah.
Maybe an outtake with his continued loyalty, commitment and increasing love will change my mind?
I doubt it, because I don’t like the epilogue where they’re leaving his and Sarah’s home to start afresh in their own one:
…It didn’t mean I would ever forget Sarah or stop loving her, but I could love Delilah too. It was hard to reconcile both feelings existing simultaneously at first. That was why I fought so hard not to fall for Delilah. How could I love another woman when my heart wouldn’t forget the first? Then I realized, it didn’t have to.
…
just when you thought you’d given it all to one person, another came along and showed you there was more than enough to go around.
…
Excited as I was to start this new chapter of my life, I was sad about what I was leaving behind. The home I’d built with Sarah and Charlie, the memories we made in that house, good and bad.
I didn't need to read that in an epilogue.
The focus on my last page of any Romance I read must be on the Hxh not on the ow and Hxh.
I love the relatable family bonds and interaction between the aunts and cousins and sisters - one of my favourite parts of the book.
I love that Vance is obsessed with Delilah
I love little Charlie and how she and Delilah come together and their forever bond
Everyone cries
All the time
I cried
Minus 1 star but I should deduct more:
No comeuppance for the vile om
No clarity on the ow’s affair
No absolute solid HEA
Does she tell Vance who Charlie’s bio dad is?
Anyway, I’m going to reread this book sans the epilogue, something I haven’t been tempted to do with any new reads lately.
January 31, 2024
Not only is she the biological mother of his plot moppet, but she's a twinalike of his dead wife. I can usually buy into a widower moving on, but not here.
February 12, 2024
Single dad/Nanny
Small Town Romance
Age Gap
Admito que leí este libro por una frase que leí un video de Tiktok.
Vance a perdido a su esposa, su vida se ha puesto patas pa´arriba y para el colmo su hija de 3 años la han devuelto de varias guarderías y ahora no tiene quien la cuide, la mejor opción es Dalilah la prima de su difunta esposa, ya que ella es maestra y no tiene trabajo completo, el problema es que ella se parece demasiado a su esposa y es la madre biólogica de Charlie, ya que ellos no podían tener hijos y Dalilah se las dio en adopción.
Dalilah ve eso como una oportunidad de conocer a su hija y estar cerca de ella, su intención no es recuperarla, solo conocerla.
Ella es producto de un abuso, era sólo una estudiante y sabía que su prima le daría una mejor vida.
Fue una lectura bastante rápida y entretenida, tuvo el drama justo.
En muchas ocasiones si me causaba issues que ella era la prima de la esposa muerta, que se parecieran tanto y que iba a ser el plato de consolación.
Tuvo sus momentos bonitos, sobre todo de Dalilah con Charlie y también tuvo un final bonito.
Small Town Romance
Age Gap
Admito que leí este libro por una frase que leí un video de Tiktok.
Vance a perdido a su esposa, su vida se ha puesto patas pa´arriba y para el colmo su hija de 3 años la han devuelto de varias guarderías y ahora no tiene quien la cuide, la mejor opción es Dalilah la prima de su difunta esposa, ya que ella es maestra y no tiene trabajo completo, el problema es que ella se parece demasiado a su esposa y es la madre biólogica de Charlie, ya que ellos no podían tener hijos y Dalilah se las dio en adopción.
Dalilah ve eso como una oportunidad de conocer a su hija y estar cerca de ella, su intención no es recuperarla, solo conocerla.
Ella es producto de un abuso, era sólo una estudiante y sabía que su prima le daría una mejor vida.
Fue una lectura bastante rápida y entretenida, tuvo el drama justo.
En muchas ocasiones si me causaba issues que ella era la prima de la esposa muerta, que se parecieran tanto y que iba a ser el plato de consolación.
Tuvo sus momentos bonitos, sobre todo de Dalilah con Charlie y también tuvo un final bonito.
April 11, 2024
No. No. No. This book gave me all sorts of icks for so many reasons. I love the fall in love with your nanny trope. In this one, it did not fit for so many reasons. One of the biggest reasons was that Delilah was Charlie's biological mom..and the reason Delilah is needed as a "nanny" is because Delilah's cousin, Sarah, who adopted Charlie from Delilah died. And Delilah looks exactly like Sarah and everyone is saying so. That's just weird. Then Vance is constantly comparing the two, and yet, he suddenly is in love with Delilah? Just doesn't work. It's all to confusing and just plain weird. I dont think Vance actually gives two shits about Delilah with how much he compares her to Sarah. Then accusing Delilah of trying to replace Sarah and that Delilah stole things from him? No. She shouldn't have forgiven him. She deserves so much better. Yeah this book didn't work.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 9, 2023
Twisted Fate by Ashley Cade 🌷
Delilah and Vince have done their best to avoid each other, which was happening until something tragic happened. Now Delilah is the new nanny to his daughter and it will be impossible to avoid each other. The more time they spend together the harder it becomes to resist their chemistry. Vince hasn't thought about wanting another woman since his wife passed away, but Delilah ends up changing that. He tries to ignore their connection though because she isn't just his daughter's nanny, Delilah's her birth mother.
I've been loving nanny romances lately and the twist the came with this one made it such a unique read! Delilah goes through some terrible things in the first few chapters of the book which gives the back story of how and why she decided to give her daughter up for adoption leading to Vince and his then wife to adopt the little girl. I was curious at the start how all it was going to be handled since the dynamic between Vince, Delilah, and the daughter is unique. I really like how things were handled though! They were both aware of and thinking about what was best for the situation they were in.
Vince is dealing with grief from losing his wife and Delilah is undergoing an internal battle with getting to know her daughter but trying to keep her relationship at a nanny level. Vince and Delilah find comfort in each other and they become this really cute trio. I liked how despite having physical chemistry they fight it and get to know each other on more of an emotional level first. There's some pushing and pulling from them both but they end up breaking down the walls and trusting each other with their deepest secrets.
I loved their communication up until the third act breakup. What happened seemed a little out of character in my opinion. However there was proper groveling which I appreciated. If you're looking for a quick, nanny romance read with a twist pick this one up.
Please check the authors website for a list of TWs before reading!
Tropes:
👧 nanny romance with a twist
🏘️ small town romance
🫧 age gap
👨👦 single dad
dual POV
4/5 stars ⭐️
2.5/5 spice level 🌶️
Delilah and Vince have done their best to avoid each other, which was happening until something tragic happened. Now Delilah is the new nanny to his daughter and it will be impossible to avoid each other. The more time they spend together the harder it becomes to resist their chemistry. Vince hasn't thought about wanting another woman since his wife passed away, but Delilah ends up changing that. He tries to ignore their connection though because she isn't just his daughter's nanny, Delilah's her birth mother.
I've been loving nanny romances lately and the twist the came with this one made it such a unique read! Delilah goes through some terrible things in the first few chapters of the book which gives the back story of how and why she decided to give her daughter up for adoption leading to Vince and his then wife to adopt the little girl. I was curious at the start how all it was going to be handled since the dynamic between Vince, Delilah, and the daughter is unique. I really like how things were handled though! They were both aware of and thinking about what was best for the situation they were in.
Vince is dealing with grief from losing his wife and Delilah is undergoing an internal battle with getting to know her daughter but trying to keep her relationship at a nanny level. Vince and Delilah find comfort in each other and they become this really cute trio. I liked how despite having physical chemistry they fight it and get to know each other on more of an emotional level first. There's some pushing and pulling from them both but they end up breaking down the walls and trusting each other with their deepest secrets.
I loved their communication up until the third act breakup. What happened seemed a little out of character in my opinion. However there was proper groveling which I appreciated. If you're looking for a quick, nanny romance read with a twist pick this one up.
Please check the authors website for a list of TWs before reading!
Tropes:
👧 nanny romance with a twist
🏘️ small town romance
🫧 age gap
👨👦 single dad
dual POV
4/5 stars ⭐️
2.5/5 spice level 🌶️
July 2, 2023
This book was intense but in a good way. Poor Delilah had a bad start which ultimately ended up being the best thing for her cousin. Fast forward and she’s now the Nanny to Charlie and a brilliant one at that. Poor Vance is caught up between grief and love and doesn’t know what to do. Things get tough and one misunderstanding leads to heartache for both of them. Time passes and Delilah and Vance are back in each others lives much to little Charlie’s happiness. Realising that spark hasn’t gone out they start over again and boom we get our HEA. Another book brilliantly written by Ashley and cannot recommend it enough, you won’t want to put it down, I know I didn’t.
June 28, 2023
3.5 ⭐️
Finished this in one sitting! It honestly hooked me from the start.
I’ve never read a book like this before and although it hooked me from the start I did find it a bit hard to connect with. I personally felt like maybe the book could’ve been longer to help understand the connection between Vance and Delilah.
Check TW before reading!!
I definitely recommend this book if you like:
✨wife’s cousin
✨grief
✨age gap
✨nanny
✨secret mom
Finished this in one sitting! It honestly hooked me from the start.
I’ve never read a book like this before and although it hooked me from the start I did find it a bit hard to connect with. I personally felt like maybe the book could’ve been longer to help understand the connection between Vance and Delilah.
Check TW before reading!!
I definitely recommend this book if you like:
✨wife’s cousin
✨grief
✨age gap
✨nanny
✨secret mom
June 28, 2023
4.5 ⭐️
I could not put this book down! I will admit, once the story started to unfold I was wondering if I would be able to cheer on Delilah and Vance. I had my reservations but Ashley did it! She delivered this story in a way that made me want to see them succeed no matter the obstacles thrown their way. Be sure to pay attention to the trigger warnings if you are sensitive to those.
Delilah had a horrific experience in college and struggles with the aftermath. She hasn’t shared her story with anyone currently in her life. She pushed many people away in fear that her secret would be discovered and they’d want her to report what happened. She wasn’t willing to risk her daughter’s happiness and would protect her at all costs.
Vance just lost his wife. He’s lost, lonely, and struggling with grief and guilt. He hasn’t been able to focus on anything or anyone except work and his daughter. Charlie is only three and struggling herself. She’s grieving the loss of her mom and doesn’t know how to deal with these big feelings. Enter Delilah. She becomes Charlie’s nanny and Vance’s saving grace.
Vance and Delilah fight the chemistry between them for as long as they can. When they finally give in they also confide in each other the secrets they both carry. Charlie will steal your heart from the start!
I took off half a star because I would have loved to see more of an emotional connection/friendship develop between Vance and Delilah. It is hinted at a couple times but you see them connect more once they give in to their desires.
I could not put this book down! I will admit, once the story started to unfold I was wondering if I would be able to cheer on Delilah and Vance. I had my reservations but Ashley did it! She delivered this story in a way that made me want to see them succeed no matter the obstacles thrown their way. Be sure to pay attention to the trigger warnings if you are sensitive to those.
Delilah had a horrific experience in college and struggles with the aftermath. She hasn’t shared her story with anyone currently in her life. She pushed many people away in fear that her secret would be discovered and they’d want her to report what happened. She wasn’t willing to risk her daughter’s happiness and would protect her at all costs.
Vance just lost his wife. He’s lost, lonely, and struggling with grief and guilt. He hasn’t been able to focus on anything or anyone except work and his daughter. Charlie is only three and struggling herself. She’s grieving the loss of her mom and doesn’t know how to deal with these big feelings. Enter Delilah. She becomes Charlie’s nanny and Vance’s saving grace.
Vance and Delilah fight the chemistry between them for as long as they can. When they finally give in they also confide in each other the secrets they both carry. Charlie will steal your heart from the start!
I took off half a star because I would have loved to see more of an emotional connection/friendship develop between Vance and Delilah. It is hinted at a couple times but you see them connect more once they give in to their desires.
July 1, 2023
This was beautifully written in a way that makes you feel all the feelings of our two main characters.
Delilah has been THROUGH it with the best support system anyone could ask for. She's really trying to separate the facts of biology and what's happened as a direct result of her decisions. She shows incredible maturity I don't think I would be able to.
Vance lost one of the most important people in his life and is a bit rough around the edges for very good reasons. He's protective and strong.
I love his aggression towards her. He's allowing himself to feel all his feelings about all the details involved in this situation they find themselves in. It's hot and cold. The sexual tension is thick.
Add in Charlie and you're completely rooting for them!
**Trigger Warning**
Delilah has been THROUGH it with the best support system anyone could ask for. She's really trying to separate the facts of biology and what's happened as a direct result of her decisions. She shows incredible maturity I don't think I would be able to.
Vance lost one of the most important people in his life and is a bit rough around the edges for very good reasons. He's protective and strong.
I love his aggression towards her. He's allowing himself to feel all his feelings about all the details involved in this situation they find themselves in. It's hot and cold. The sexual tension is thick.
Add in Charlie and you're completely rooting for them!
**Trigger Warning**
January 30, 2024
Yo entiendo que este es una historia pero señor, si eres igual a tu prima muerta y más encima eras la madre biológica de la hija que ella y su marido mayor adoptaron es evidente que eres un miserable reemplazo de ella. Huyan de esas dinamicasssss.
July 1, 2023
This story was heartbreaking and heartwarming all at the same time. I loved Vance and Delilah's story!
January 28, 2024
I’m very conflicted on this. I feel like Vance’s feelings towards Delilah aren’t genuine. The whole they’re identical, cousins, and the third act break up just solidify in mind that it doesn’t work
February 3, 2024
Overall ⭐️⭐️⭐️/5
Spicy content 🌶🌶🌶/5
Spice quality 🔥🔥🔥🔥/5
I enjoyed this book, but there was just something lacking for me.
I have tried to write this in a non confusing way, but I can't seem to, haha. But we follow Delilah, Vance, and Charlie (little girl).
So, Vance is Charlie's father, and Delilah is the nanny but is also Charlie's biological mother! So what happens when Vance starts getting feelings for the nanny?
This book is an emotional one and does have some topics that people may find triggering, so please be wary.
I loved the development between Vance and Delilah, but I feel that she was treated very poorly and constantly comparing that Delilah looks like his ex-wife is not okay. When his daughter looks the same but he doesn't mention her at all.
And there is no grovelling at all when he hurts her. It's a semi heart felt apology and some therapy that is very much needed but shouldn't change the fact that he hurt her.
I did like the ending, but I really would have loved an epilogue to just tie everything up!
Check out tashie_leereads for my bookstagram! :)
Spicy content 🌶🌶🌶/5
Spice quality 🔥🔥🔥🔥/5
I enjoyed this book, but there was just something lacking for me.
I have tried to write this in a non confusing way, but I can't seem to, haha. But we follow Delilah, Vance, and Charlie (little girl).
So, Vance is Charlie's father, and Delilah is the nanny but is also Charlie's biological mother! So what happens when Vance starts getting feelings for the nanny?
This book is an emotional one and does have some topics that people may find triggering, so please be wary.
I loved the development between Vance and Delilah, but I feel that she was treated very poorly and constantly comparing that Delilah looks like his ex-wife is not okay. When his daughter looks the same but he doesn't mention her at all.
And there is no grovelling at all when he hurts her. It's a semi heart felt apology and some therapy that is very much needed but shouldn't change the fact that he hurt her.
I did like the ending, but I really would have loved an epilogue to just tie everything up!
Check out tashie_leereads for my bookstagram! :)
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
February 26, 2024
I had a lot of feelings about this one... idk
will-not-read
October 22, 2024This honestly sounds like torture to me 🙃
May 13, 2024
3.75⭐️
January 29, 2026
CONTENT/TRIGGER WARNING: This book contains sensitive subject matter that may be difficult for some readers, including, but not limited to: adoption, grief, death of a spouse/family member, and rape (resulting in an unplanned pregnancy).
Twisted Fate, Book 2 of the Willow Brook Falls mini-series, was about 24-year-old Delilah "Lilah" Jones, a college student with a degree in early childhood education, and 33-year-old Vance (occupation unknown).
Side Note: The prologue of this book picked up a few months after a scene from Book 1, where all of the "crew" from high school got together in a bar one night to enjoy some time together. This was the same scene where the reader was briefly introduced to some of the characters in both books, including Chad. The MMC from Book 1 had already gotten "bad vibes" just from looking at the guy.
When she was in her second year of college, Delilah had been drugged and S.A.'d, which resulted in her getting pregnant. (It was believed to have been her ex-boyfriend, Chadwick "Chad" Townsend. Since she was drugged, she couldn't say for certain it was him, which was why it was never reported.) Forced to leave college, she determined the best course of action would be to give her baby up for adoption, which she did. However, Delilah's life began to spiral out of control, and she spent quite some time struggling to survive. Only with therapy, her mom's help, and some support from her close-knit extended family did she eventually return to school and earn her degree in education. While it had been an open adoption (her cousin and her cousin's husband accepted the baby as their own), Delilah had never spent any time with her daughter because she had never healed enough to endure being near her. She was never in a place to fully deal with the trauma of the rape.
Four years later, Delilah returned to her hometown, but it wasn't without some sadness. Delilah's cousin Sarah (the woman who adopted her daughter) had passed away from an aneurysm, leaving her widowed husband alone to take care of the now three-and-a-half-year-old Charlotte "Charlie". (It needs to be made clear at this point that Delilah, while several years younger than the late Sarah, was the spitting image of her cousin...their mothers were twins.) While attending the funeral, Delilah's daughter mistook her for her dead mother, until she got close enough to recognize the difference. Even Vance had to do a double-take before realizing she wasn't his wife.
A few months after the funeral, Lilah learned that Vance was having difficulty keeping Charlie in daycare. Prompted by spontaneity, Lilah offered to be the child's nanny. Vance took umbrage at that at first, resenting the fact that she had cut ties with him and Sarah after they adopted her baby, and he had a moment where he thought perhaps this was her way of trying to take Charlie away from him. Eventually, he reluctantly agreed.
Their relationship slowly developed over the next 8 months. He (and his mother) still had doubts about Lilah's motives for volunteering to be Charlie's nanny. His mother felt she was trying to replace Sarah completely and planted that seed of doubt in his mind almost from the moment Lilah began working for him. When she was leaving for home on a Friday night without sharing the dinner she had made for them, he asked her why not. She told him she had a date. When the date took a turn for the worse, the only person available to help was Vance. Once he took her home, he berated her. Their argument turned into a spicy scene. They talked later and decided they wanted to continue their spicy relationship...but no one could know about it. One day, he told her that on the three days that she worked for him, she should start spending the night rather than leaving and returning each time. Her first night staying over at his place, both Vance and Lilah shared their confessions with each other. She told him about how Charlie came to be, and he told her how he felt responsible for his wife's untimely death.
The weekend after Thanksgiving, life went to hell in a handbasket for Lilah. Vance accused her of stealing a necklace that had belonged to his late wife. When she tried to explain that all of the female cousins and cousins-in-law had been given identical necklaces from their grandmother, he didn't listen and kicked her out after accusing her of trying to replace his late wife and take Charlie away from him. She left without taking any of her things with her. A few days later, Vance's mother-in-law confronted him with the truth. That night, as he was putting Charlie to bed, she confessed to taking her mother's necklace. Vance went to Lilah's house to apologize, but when he told her why he was there, it didn't end as well as he'd hoped it would.
There was plenty of angst, drama, conflict, push/pull, and an emotional rollercoaster filled with more than the usual twists and turns. The storyline was adequate, although too long because the author filled it with so much unnecessary clutter that it brought the flow of the story almost to a screeching halt.
While both main characters were well-developed and mature, there was a ton of grief that hadn't been dealt with before they began their relationship, and that stunted their growth for a while. I liked how the author gave them the time to do so, but the way she chose to do it only added to the overflowing information dumping. Another irritating thing was the fact that so many issues went unresolved.
One of my biggest pet peeves regarding authors who include young children in their stories is the age-appropriate language of said child. Unfortunately, this author switched back and forth between language that was too old for the 3-and-a-half year old little girl and what a child that age would normally talk like. It was aggravating.
I could only give this a three-star rating because it did not earn anything higher. The book was too long, too full of fluff-n-stuff, and dragged on for too long.
Twisted Fate, Book 2 of the Willow Brook Falls mini-series, was about 24-year-old Delilah "Lilah" Jones, a college student with a degree in early childhood education, and 33-year-old Vance (occupation unknown).
Side Note: The prologue of this book picked up a few months after a scene from Book 1, where all of the "crew" from high school got together in a bar one night to enjoy some time together. This was the same scene where the reader was briefly introduced to some of the characters in both books, including Chad. The MMC from Book 1 had already gotten "bad vibes" just from looking at the guy.
When she was in her second year of college, Delilah had been drugged and S.A.'d, which resulted in her getting pregnant. (It was believed to have been her ex-boyfriend, Chadwick "Chad" Townsend. Since she was drugged, she couldn't say for certain it was him, which was why it was never reported.) Forced to leave college, she determined the best course of action would be to give her baby up for adoption, which she did. However, Delilah's life began to spiral out of control, and she spent quite some time struggling to survive. Only with therapy, her mom's help, and some support from her close-knit extended family did she eventually return to school and earn her degree in education. While it had been an open adoption (her cousin and her cousin's husband accepted the baby as their own), Delilah had never spent any time with her daughter because she had never healed enough to endure being near her. She was never in a place to fully deal with the trauma of the rape.
Four years later, Delilah returned to her hometown, but it wasn't without some sadness. Delilah's cousin Sarah (the woman who adopted her daughter) had passed away from an aneurysm, leaving her widowed husband alone to take care of the now three-and-a-half-year-old Charlotte "Charlie". (It needs to be made clear at this point that Delilah, while several years younger than the late Sarah, was the spitting image of her cousin...their mothers were twins.) While attending the funeral, Delilah's daughter mistook her for her dead mother, until she got close enough to recognize the difference. Even Vance had to do a double-take before realizing she wasn't his wife.
A few months after the funeral, Lilah learned that Vance was having difficulty keeping Charlie in daycare. Prompted by spontaneity, Lilah offered to be the child's nanny. Vance took umbrage at that at first, resenting the fact that she had cut ties with him and Sarah after they adopted her baby, and he had a moment where he thought perhaps this was her way of trying to take Charlie away from him. Eventually, he reluctantly agreed.
Their relationship slowly developed over the next 8 months. He (and his mother) still had doubts about Lilah's motives for volunteering to be Charlie's nanny. His mother felt she was trying to replace Sarah completely and planted that seed of doubt in his mind almost from the moment Lilah began working for him. When she was leaving for home on a Friday night without sharing the dinner she had made for them, he asked her why not. She told him she had a date. When the date took a turn for the worse, the only person available to help was Vance. Once he took her home, he berated her. Their argument turned into a spicy scene. They talked later and decided they wanted to continue their spicy relationship...but no one could know about it. One day, he told her that on the three days that she worked for him, she should start spending the night rather than leaving and returning each time. Her first night staying over at his place, both Vance and Lilah shared their confessions with each other. She told him about how Charlie came to be, and he told her how he felt responsible for his wife's untimely death.
The weekend after Thanksgiving, life went to hell in a handbasket for Lilah. Vance accused her of stealing a necklace that had belonged to his late wife. When she tried to explain that all of the female cousins and cousins-in-law had been given identical necklaces from their grandmother, he didn't listen and kicked her out after accusing her of trying to replace his late wife and take Charlie away from him. She left without taking any of her things with her. A few days later, Vance's mother-in-law confronted him with the truth. That night, as he was putting Charlie to bed, she confessed to taking her mother's necklace. Vance went to Lilah's house to apologize, but when he told her why he was there, it didn't end as well as he'd hoped it would.
There was plenty of angst, drama, conflict, push/pull, and an emotional rollercoaster filled with more than the usual twists and turns. The storyline was adequate, although too long because the author filled it with so much unnecessary clutter that it brought the flow of the story almost to a screeching halt.
While both main characters were well-developed and mature, there was a ton of grief that hadn't been dealt with before they began their relationship, and that stunted their growth for a while. I liked how the author gave them the time to do so, but the way she chose to do it only added to the overflowing information dumping. Another irritating thing was the fact that so many issues went unresolved.
One of my biggest pet peeves regarding authors who include young children in their stories is the age-appropriate language of said child. Unfortunately, this author switched back and forth between language that was too old for the 3-and-a-half year old little girl and what a child that age would normally talk like. It was aggravating.
I could only give this a three-star rating because it did not earn anything higher. The book was too long, too full of fluff-n-stuff, and dragged on for too long.
July 6, 2023
This was a very beautiful and emotional read I've read so far this year! It was very well written.
I wasn't sure on how it started but once I got further along I was hooked by Vance and Delilah's story.
Check TW before reading!
Delilah had a very bad experience in college and it resulted in her emotional despair.
Vance lost his wife who was Delilah's cousin and was dealing with his grief and guilt while trying to raise his three year old daughter.
Delilah and Vance agree for her to be his nanny while he works. Their connection and chemistry is explosive but they try to fight it for awhile until they can't. Delilah relationship with his daughter, Charlie, develops well as they connect. Delilah works with Charlie's emotions and behaviors from missing her mom and it helps Charlie so much.
I loved how Vance and Delilah finally told each other their their biggest fears/secrets and how they were able to work on themselves before getting their HEA.
I would definitely recommend if you love: age-gap, single dad, nanny w/a twist, emotional, and steamy.
I wasn't sure on how it started but once I got further along I was hooked by Vance and Delilah's story.
Check TW before reading!
Delilah had a very bad experience in college and it resulted in her emotional despair.
Vance lost his wife who was Delilah's cousin and was dealing with his grief and guilt while trying to raise his three year old daughter.
Delilah and Vance agree for her to be his nanny while he works. Their connection and chemistry is explosive but they try to fight it for awhile until they can't. Delilah relationship with his daughter, Charlie, develops well as they connect. Delilah works with Charlie's emotions and behaviors from missing her mom and it helps Charlie so much.
I loved how Vance and Delilah finally told each other their their biggest fears/secrets and how they were able to work on themselves before getting their HEA.
I would definitely recommend if you love: age-gap, single dad, nanny w/a twist, emotional, and steamy.
September 24, 2023
Twisted Fate is definitely a top read of 2023!
I was able to connect with Delilah and could really feel her hurt. This book packs a lot into it. Despite all the circumstances it will have you rooting for Delilah and Vance. And Charlie is adorable!
This book is for anyone who loves second chances (and I am not talking about the romantic kind) when it comes to family.
The spice level was on fire as well and that angst 🔥.
I honestly need more, the only way this story could of been more perfect for me would of been if the Author dug deeper into the trauma of both Vance & Delilah and we got to see deeper into both of their healing process and made the story a duet. I could read about this couple all day!
PS, we are gonna need an additional bonus epilogue for when Charlie finds out about her bio mom 😉
The author does provide trigger warnings for this book:
Sexual assault (occurs off-page) resulting in unplanned pregnancy, death of a spouse, grief, infertility, and adoption.
I was able to connect with Delilah and could really feel her hurt. This book packs a lot into it. Despite all the circumstances it will have you rooting for Delilah and Vance. And Charlie is adorable!
This book is for anyone who loves second chances (and I am not talking about the romantic kind) when it comes to family.
The spice level was on fire as well and that angst 🔥.
I honestly need more, the only way this story could of been more perfect for me would of been if the Author dug deeper into the trauma of both Vance & Delilah and we got to see deeper into both of their healing process and made the story a duet. I could read about this couple all day!
PS, we are gonna need an additional bonus epilogue for when Charlie finds out about her bio mom 😉
The author does provide trigger warnings for this book:
Sexual assault (occurs off-page) resulting in unplanned pregnancy, death of a spouse, grief, infertility, and adoption.
July 2, 2023
I absolutely love Ashley Cades work, so going into this read i knew i was going to love it. Delilah is such a strong character. The beginning did have me crying at everything she went through and overcame. Having to watch her baby grow up knowing she gave her up for adoption broke my heart.
But everything was done with her heart in the right spot to help her cousin who wanted a child but was unable to get pregnant. Them the tragic accident occurred turning everyones world upside down including little charlie when her mom dies unexpectedly. Vance in need of a nanny hires Delilah to help out and that when the connection begins. Vance is definitely a swoon worthy character and will have you adding him to top bookfriend!
But everything was done with her heart in the right spot to help her cousin who wanted a child but was unable to get pregnant. Them the tragic accident occurred turning everyones world upside down including little charlie when her mom dies unexpectedly. Vance in need of a nanny hires Delilah to help out and that when the connection begins. Vance is definitely a swoon worthy character and will have you adding him to top bookfriend!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
March 7, 2024
I only liked the Madeline rep in this book as that was my favourite too. But other than that it wasn’t good.
I can read the books in which a widower falls in love with their dead-spouse’s sibling/relative/best friend… etc etc. But Delilah in this book was a literal replacement of Sarah. Exact Copies. Everything she did .. Sarah had done it before. Vance compared them at every chance he got and it was pathetic. Then he had to go and say the actual truth about Delilah replacing sarah and they broke up but no grovelling afterwards. I hated his mother too.
Also he moved on too soon after his wife’s death bro .. C’mon wasn’t she the love your life ?? TOO SOON!!!!!!! Did he ever actually love her or was he just guilty that they fought and she died the same day ??
I can read the books in which a widower falls in love with their dead-spouse’s sibling/relative/best friend… etc etc. But Delilah in this book was a literal replacement of Sarah. Exact Copies. Everything she did .. Sarah had done it before. Vance compared them at every chance he got and it was pathetic. Then he had to go and say the actual truth about Delilah replacing sarah and they broke up but no grovelling afterwards. I hated his mother too.
Also he moved on too soon after his wife’s death bro .. C’mon wasn’t she the love your life ?? TOO SOON!!!!!!! Did he ever actually love her or was he just guilty that they fought and she died the same day ??
July 8, 2023
it was an act of twisted fate…
It’s 2 am, my eyes are burning but I refused to put my kindle down till those two words THE END.
Twisted Fate is beautiful a story about love, loss, healing dealing with unconditional and unconventional love.
I loved Reckless Abandon (book 1 in this series) and I honestly didn’t think a book could top that and then Ashley Cade said hold my beer and Vance entered the scene.
Cade wasted absolutely no time pulling at readers hearts and stomping on the broken pieces. I knew by chapter 3 I was addicted to this book. I wasn’t ready for it to end.
readers should absolutely add it to their tbr!
It’s 2 am, my eyes are burning but I refused to put my kindle down till those two words THE END.
Twisted Fate is beautiful a story about love, loss, healing dealing with unconditional and unconventional love.
I loved Reckless Abandon (book 1 in this series) and I honestly didn’t think a book could top that and then Ashley Cade said hold my beer and Vance entered the scene.
Cade wasted absolutely no time pulling at readers hearts and stomping on the broken pieces. I knew by chapter 3 I was addicted to this book. I wasn’t ready for it to end.
readers should absolutely add it to their tbr!
July 25, 2025
Delilah and her roommate Dani were heading out with friends to a frat party. Dani is her best friend at her college and if she could,, she’d bundle her up and take her home to Willow Brook Falls, small town Virginia. “I just want to go out and have fun. I’m not interested in hooking up with anybody,” she told Dani. Not to get laid. She wanted to have fun with her friends. It had been a few months since she’d broken up with Chad, and she was in no hurry to jump into something else, even if it was just casual. “You’re not still hung up on preppy boy, are you?”
She shot her a glare, and she held up her hands. “I’m just asking.” Her feelings for Chadwick Townsend–heir to the Townsend fortune and future millionaire–were complicated. She’d once fancied herself in love with him, but realized she’d been blinded by extravagant gifts and lavish trips. She always seemed to be at the forefront of his mind, and at first, he’d treated her like a queen. But then something shifted. He became overly possessive and incredibly jealous, especially when they were around her friends.
The tipping point came this summer after they had dinner with her friends back in Willow Brook Falls. He accused her of sleeping with one of her oldest friends, Cameron, and grabbed her arm hard enough to leave a mark. He apologized, of course, but the encounter left her unsettled. Still, she gave him another chance and a few weeks later, it happened again. He didn’t put his hands on her that time but caged her in with his arms, her back against the wall and swore that he owned her, and no other man was ever to touch her again.
She knew she needed to get out. He would hurt her or someone she loved if they continued on this path. She waited until he was back home and called him to tell him she was ending things. He went ballistic, yelling and screaming that she couldn’t do this to him and that they were soul mates. It got ugly, and they were both crying by the end, but it had to be done. They were laughing with a couple of the fraternity brothers when the door opened, letting in a cool gust of wind along with three guys who looked like they’d gotten lost.
The laughter fell from her lips when a familiar blond head popped into the foyer. Sh-t. What was he doing here? This wasn’t his scene. He didn’t “lower” himself by going to frat parties. “Um, isn’t that your ex?” Dani asked, leaning into her. “Yep,” she answered and drained the rest of her drink. After two full cups of whatever concoction her friends made, she needed a restroom. Once she was finished in the restroom, she pushed through the door. The steps creaked and groaned as someone ascended, and she stopped dead in her tracks when she saw who it was.
A slow smile curved Chad’s lips. “Delilah,” he crooned, “I didn’t know you would be here.” I got the impression he knew full well I’d be at this party and that was the only reason he was here. He never came to these before, practically turning his nose up at the prospect. That was why she quit going. He made her feel trashy for wanting to hang out with her friends. She only attended cocktail hours at fancy hotels or country clubs while she dated him. “Didn’t you?” She challenged, crossing my arms. His lips quirked in a charmingly crooked smile–his signature dimples dented his cheeks as he looked at her from beneath his lashes.
“I was hoping we could at least be friends. I miss having you in my life.” Unease crawled up her spine, and the hairs on the back of her neck stood on end. His calm, rational demeanor was setting off warning bells. She needed to get away from him and fast. “That’s not a good idea. Our relationship became toxic and unhealthy. And judging by the way you acted toward the end, I don’t think you’ll ever settle for being just friends. It’s best if we both just move on.” Shock washed over his features, but he schooled them quickly, an air of finely honed arrogance sliding over his face.
“If that’s what you want,” he offered. She found her favorite bottle of wine among the scattered bottles of booze. Only half of it was gone, so she grabbed the bottle and upended it into a plastic cup. Delilah poured the deep, blood-red wine into her cup. Soon the alcohol was coursing through her body, began to take full effect. Her vision blurred, and her head swam. Damn, she hadn’t realized she’d drank that much. Soon she began looking for somewhere to rest. Leaving Dani to dance with their friends and pushed through the crowd.
She stumbled up the stairs to the second floor, looking for somewhere to lay her head down for a few minutes. Delilah just needed a moment to gather herself. Giving in to the fatigue, she fell back and focused on the ceiling fan as she fought to stay awake. She lost the battle, her lids falling closed. They popped open at the sound of the door clicking shut. Someone was in there with her. It was hard to find the strength to lift her head. A heavy weight settled over her and panic rose in her throat like a scream, but when she opened her mouth, nothing came out. “Shhh,” the intruder soothed. He SA’d her.
“It’s okay. It’s just me.” Nine months later she was giving birth and giving her baby girl to her cousin Sarah and her husband Vance who were unable to have a child. When out of nowhere Sarah passes away. Vance is in need of help. Harper his daughter is acting out at preschool and has been kicked out of her second one. They need help, so she says she will help if he would like her to. The thing is she looks just like Sarah except Delilah has blue eyes and Sarah had brown eyes. Watch the slow burn romance unfold.
She shot her a glare, and she held up her hands. “I’m just asking.” Her feelings for Chadwick Townsend–heir to the Townsend fortune and future millionaire–were complicated. She’d once fancied herself in love with him, but realized she’d been blinded by extravagant gifts and lavish trips. She always seemed to be at the forefront of his mind, and at first, he’d treated her like a queen. But then something shifted. He became overly possessive and incredibly jealous, especially when they were around her friends.
The tipping point came this summer after they had dinner with her friends back in Willow Brook Falls. He accused her of sleeping with one of her oldest friends, Cameron, and grabbed her arm hard enough to leave a mark. He apologized, of course, but the encounter left her unsettled. Still, she gave him another chance and a few weeks later, it happened again. He didn’t put his hands on her that time but caged her in with his arms, her back against the wall and swore that he owned her, and no other man was ever to touch her again.
She knew she needed to get out. He would hurt her or someone she loved if they continued on this path. She waited until he was back home and called him to tell him she was ending things. He went ballistic, yelling and screaming that she couldn’t do this to him and that they were soul mates. It got ugly, and they were both crying by the end, but it had to be done. They were laughing with a couple of the fraternity brothers when the door opened, letting in a cool gust of wind along with three guys who looked like they’d gotten lost.
The laughter fell from her lips when a familiar blond head popped into the foyer. Sh-t. What was he doing here? This wasn’t his scene. He didn’t “lower” himself by going to frat parties. “Um, isn’t that your ex?” Dani asked, leaning into her. “Yep,” she answered and drained the rest of her drink. After two full cups of whatever concoction her friends made, she needed a restroom. Once she was finished in the restroom, she pushed through the door. The steps creaked and groaned as someone ascended, and she stopped dead in her tracks when she saw who it was.
A slow smile curved Chad’s lips. “Delilah,” he crooned, “I didn’t know you would be here.” I got the impression he knew full well I’d be at this party and that was the only reason he was here. He never came to these before, practically turning his nose up at the prospect. That was why she quit going. He made her feel trashy for wanting to hang out with her friends. She only attended cocktail hours at fancy hotels or country clubs while she dated him. “Didn’t you?” She challenged, crossing my arms. His lips quirked in a charmingly crooked smile–his signature dimples dented his cheeks as he looked at her from beneath his lashes.
“I was hoping we could at least be friends. I miss having you in my life.” Unease crawled up her spine, and the hairs on the back of her neck stood on end. His calm, rational demeanor was setting off warning bells. She needed to get away from him and fast. “That’s not a good idea. Our relationship became toxic and unhealthy. And judging by the way you acted toward the end, I don’t think you’ll ever settle for being just friends. It’s best if we both just move on.” Shock washed over his features, but he schooled them quickly, an air of finely honed arrogance sliding over his face.
“If that’s what you want,” he offered. She found her favorite bottle of wine among the scattered bottles of booze. Only half of it was gone, so she grabbed the bottle and upended it into a plastic cup. Delilah poured the deep, blood-red wine into her cup. Soon the alcohol was coursing through her body, began to take full effect. Her vision blurred, and her head swam. Damn, she hadn’t realized she’d drank that much. Soon she began looking for somewhere to rest. Leaving Dani to dance with their friends and pushed through the crowd.
She stumbled up the stairs to the second floor, looking for somewhere to lay her head down for a few minutes. Delilah just needed a moment to gather herself. Giving in to the fatigue, she fell back and focused on the ceiling fan as she fought to stay awake. She lost the battle, her lids falling closed. They popped open at the sound of the door clicking shut. Someone was in there with her. It was hard to find the strength to lift her head. A heavy weight settled over her and panic rose in her throat like a scream, but when she opened her mouth, nothing came out. “Shhh,” the intruder soothed. He SA’d her.
“It’s okay. It’s just me.” Nine months later she was giving birth and giving her baby girl to her cousin Sarah and her husband Vance who were unable to have a child. When out of nowhere Sarah passes away. Vance is in need of help. Harper his daughter is acting out at preschool and has been kicked out of her second one. They need help, so she says she will help if he would like her to. The thing is she looks just like Sarah except Delilah has blue eyes and Sarah had brown eyes. Watch the slow burn romance unfold.
September 9, 2024
I need to stop reading widowed MMCs
I just felt sorry for Delilah. She's always going to be second. At no point did I feel like Vance genuinely loved her. She was just a replacement for his dead ex.
I should know better at this point. I don't think I've ever read a romance where the mmc has a dead wife and I liked it. It's like authors can't help but make the men compare at every step and then say the most heinous things to the FMC. Making them number 2 in their own love story.
I just felt sorry for Delilah. She's always going to be second. At no point did I feel like Vance genuinely loved her. She was just a replacement for his dead ex.
I should know better at this point. I don't think I've ever read a romance where the mmc has a dead wife and I liked it. It's like authors can't help but make the men compare at every step and then say the most heinous things to the FMC. Making them number 2 in their own love story.
May 13, 2024
I normally have no issues with single dad/widower tropes. But this one just didn’t sit right. I also skipped over the spicy scenes a few times cause just ugh. I only finished the book so it could go towards my reading challenge
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
March 8, 2024
Skimmed through the rest of the book @ the 70% mark.
I was bored, so so bored. I wanted angst, longing, yearning and grovelling. I got none of that.
I was bored, so so bored. I wanted angst, longing, yearning and grovelling. I got none of that.
September 10, 2024
No wtf.. this is why you can't trust booktok.. I should have resisted to read this book..
March 17, 2025
NOPE. DNF.
September 15, 2023
Title: Twisted Fate (Willow Brook Falls Book 2)
Author: Ashley Cade
Hero/Heroine: Vance & Delilah
Tropes: Single Dad, Age Gap, Small Town, Forbidden, Widower,
tw/cw: sexual assault (on page), pregnancy off the back of sexual assault, multiple mentions of adoption, death of a spouse/family member, detailed description of grief, depression, mention of IVF,
✨the good ✨
Seriously, did Ashley Cade put crack in this?? I started reading Twisted Fate yesterday and refused to go to sleep until I’d finished it (all I can say is thank god it’s Friday, the bags under my eyes could rival Heathrow baggage claim). When I say that I loved this story I mean, I LOVED this story. Vance and Delilah’s story was so unbelievably beautiful and heartbreaking in equal measure.
After being violated in one of the worse ways possible during a college party, Delilah moves back home, but not before finding out that she’s pregnant. What occurs from this point on was a series of circumstances that brought Delilah back into her child’s life. Honestly, I’ve never read a book with this storyline before, and I’ve read a lot of books in my lifetime. It had me in the biggest chokehold ever, especially when Vance entered the picture. His and Delilah’s situation was so off the wall and unexpected, however they just seemed to work, despite the forbidden aspect of it.
I’m not going into too much detail as I want you to go into this book somewhat blind, and just go with it. When I say that it’s completely consuming, I mean it. The characters, the storyline, the whole concept came together in a story that was so addictive, it was worth the late night and bags under my eyes.
✨ the bad ✨
Chad. Absolutely vile creature. I would have taken great joy in seeing him get the ultimate comeuppance. Also, Vivian. She got right on my tits.
Thank you to the author for providing me with a copy of this to read. This is my honest review.
✨overall thoughts: absolutely spellbinding, adored this story
✨ heat level: 🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️
✨ star rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Author: Ashley Cade
Hero/Heroine: Vance & Delilah
Tropes: Single Dad, Age Gap, Small Town, Forbidden, Widower,
tw/cw: sexual assault (on page), pregnancy off the back of sexual assault, multiple mentions of adoption, death of a spouse/family member, detailed description of grief, depression, mention of IVF,
✨the good ✨
Seriously, did Ashley Cade put crack in this?? I started reading Twisted Fate yesterday and refused to go to sleep until I’d finished it (all I can say is thank god it’s Friday, the bags under my eyes could rival Heathrow baggage claim). When I say that I loved this story I mean, I LOVED this story. Vance and Delilah’s story was so unbelievably beautiful and heartbreaking in equal measure.
After being violated in one of the worse ways possible during a college party, Delilah moves back home, but not before finding out that she’s pregnant. What occurs from this point on was a series of circumstances that brought Delilah back into her child’s life. Honestly, I’ve never read a book with this storyline before, and I’ve read a lot of books in my lifetime. It had me in the biggest chokehold ever, especially when Vance entered the picture. His and Delilah’s situation was so off the wall and unexpected, however they just seemed to work, despite the forbidden aspect of it.
I’m not going into too much detail as I want you to go into this book somewhat blind, and just go with it. When I say that it’s completely consuming, I mean it. The characters, the storyline, the whole concept came together in a story that was so addictive, it was worth the late night and bags under my eyes.
✨ the bad ✨
Chad. Absolutely vile creature. I would have taken great joy in seeing him get the ultimate comeuppance. Also, Vivian. She got right on my tits.
Thank you to the author for providing me with a copy of this to read. This is my honest review.
✨overall thoughts: absolutely spellbinding, adored this story
✨ heat level: 🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️
✨ star rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
March 11, 2025
The story was different from what I usually read, but it was captivating, so I finished it in less than a day. Delilah was mentioned in the previous book, and after reading the blurb, I was eager to learn about her relationship with Vance and how things would unfold between them. Initially, things were awkward between them, especially since Delilah was Charlie's biological mother and resembled Vance's late wife, also her cousin.
Delilah didn't remember anything from the party she suffered abuse. Later, she discovered she was pregnant, and since her cousin and husband couldn't have children, she allowed them to adopt her daughter and provide her with a life she couldn't. They wanted her to be a part of their lives, but she wasn't in the right headspace, so she stayed away for four years until her cousin passed away, forcing her to confront Vance and her daughter.
Vance and his late wife had some issues in their marriage, leading Vance to believe he was responsible for her death. Consequently, he concentrated on his daughter and his job. Charlie was having difficulty at daycare, and his family tried to support him as much as possible. Since he needed a nanny, Delilah offered her help to be close to Charlie. They bonded from the very beginning, and it was nice to read how Delilah finally had the opportunity to connect with Charlie and heal from her trauma.
Delilah and Vance's chemistry grew despite their initial tension; they tried to stay apart but they couldn't deny their attraction and the pull that grew with every moment they spent together. Despite the drama, I loved how they took time to heal and work on each other before getting back together. Vance finally put his guilt behind him and could give Delilah a new version of himself that she deserved.
Their story was different, but I enjoyed reading it. I loved how things worked out for Vance and Delilah, how they moved on and focused on the family they were creating.
Next up is Shayla's book. I can't wait to read her story and read more about everyone in their small town.
Delilah didn't remember anything from the party she suffered abuse. Later, she discovered she was pregnant, and since her cousin and husband couldn't have children, she allowed them to adopt her daughter and provide her with a life she couldn't. They wanted her to be a part of their lives, but she wasn't in the right headspace, so she stayed away for four years until her cousin passed away, forcing her to confront Vance and her daughter.
Vance and his late wife had some issues in their marriage, leading Vance to believe he was responsible for her death. Consequently, he concentrated on his daughter and his job. Charlie was having difficulty at daycare, and his family tried to support him as much as possible. Since he needed a nanny, Delilah offered her help to be close to Charlie. They bonded from the very beginning, and it was nice to read how Delilah finally had the opportunity to connect with Charlie and heal from her trauma.
Delilah and Vance's chemistry grew despite their initial tension; they tried to stay apart but they couldn't deny their attraction and the pull that grew with every moment they spent together. Despite the drama, I loved how they took time to heal and work on each other before getting back together. Vance finally put his guilt behind him and could give Delilah a new version of himself that she deserved.
Their story was different, but I enjoyed reading it. I loved how things worked out for Vance and Delilah, how they moved on and focused on the family they were creating.
Next up is Shayla's book. I can't wait to read her story and read more about everyone in their small town.
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