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Reckless Love #2
Before You
Every single moment before you came into my life pales in comparison after meeting you.
JJ Walker
I’ve spent nearly two and a half years simmering in regret because I allowed Marley to leave that night without getting her last name after falling hopelessly in love with her in the countryside of France. I look for her face in every crowd, hoping for another chance with the girl of my dreams, but for now, the letters I’ve written her are a window to my fracturing soul.
Marley Benson
I’m the first to admit I struggle trusting others.
Being the heiress set to inherit the billion dollar company my father runs, my entire future has been planned from the moment I was born. I’ve already broken the plan once by transferring from an Ivy League University to escape the pressures of my last name, to attend Beaumont University on the other side of the country. I can’t run forever, but I can avoid my fate a little longer.
The only thing I didn’t plan for was to run into JJ, the boy with eyes the color of spring, as my boyfriend, Trent, introduces me to his roommates.
Suddenly, everything I thought I knew, no longer makes sense.
JJ Walker
I’ve spent nearly two and a half years simmering in regret because I allowed Marley to leave that night without getting her last name after falling hopelessly in love with her in the countryside of France. I look for her face in every crowd, hoping for another chance with the girl of my dreams, but for now, the letters I’ve written her are a window to my fracturing soul.
Marley Benson
I’m the first to admit I struggle trusting others.
Being the heiress set to inherit the billion dollar company my father runs, my entire future has been planned from the moment I was born. I’ve already broken the plan once by transferring from an Ivy League University to escape the pressures of my last name, to attend Beaumont University on the other side of the country. I can’t run forever, but I can avoid my fate a little longer.
The only thing I didn’t plan for was to run into JJ, the boy with eyes the color of spring, as my boyfriend, Trent, introduces me to his roommates.
Suddenly, everything I thought I knew, no longer makes sense.
445 pages, Kindle Edition
Published August 29, 2025
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Did Not Finish
June 28, 2026dnf 45%
insta-love, too sweet for me and i just got bored.
insta-love, too sweet for me and i just got bored.
August 25, 2025
e-ARC review ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
I don’t know why, but when I was choosing my sign-ups in Love Notes PR, this book caught my attention. Maybe it was the title, or maybe the cover. Whatever the reason, the truth is that I ended up experiencing a real rollercoaster. I’m proud of myself because I completely stepped out of my comfort zone. I don’t usually read this kind of story with so many trigger warnings, and I’ll admit I was surprised. But most importantly, I’m really glad I did. Thank you to Love Notes PR and the author Laurea for the opportunity to read an early copy.
__________
At first glance, the premise seems very simple: a boy meets a girl. They don’t exchange numbers, they don’t share last names, just a fleeting encounter, and then they disappear from each other’s lives. Two years later, fate steps in: they meet again, but now she is the girlfriend of his roommate, who also happens to be the quarterback of the team he plays for. What looks like a straightforward story is actually much more. Our protagonist, Marley, carries the weight of a legacy she must honor and represent. He, JJ on the other hand, is a man scarred by the things he went through during those two years apart. The boy Marlene sees again is not the same one she met before, and that contrast is what makes the story much deeper than it first appears.
This is where the plot really takes shape. This book isn’t just about romance—it gives us so much more: love, acts of service, understanding, and a genuinely attentive male lead. She is a woman chasing her dreams, though weighed down by insecurities because of the legacy she must live up to. He is also fighting his own battles, but both of them share something very important: supportive parents. Marley is the heiress of a traditional family, while he is the second son of another well-regarded family. Their dreams are simple, almost ordinary, but very human: he dreams of mathematics and football; she dreams of learning to cook and of music. And it’s exactly that simplicity, that contrast between the weight of their legacy and the smallness of their desires, that gives the story its strength.
And here comes the big question: what makes this book so painful? The story is intense because JJ, our male protagonist, is struggling with a severe addiction. He is an addict, though he refuses to acknowledge it. And it’s not just a passing problem—it’s a family and psychological situation so deep that it leaves him completely lost within himself. The most heartbreaking part is that no one knows, except for his best friend Asher, who carries that secret and does his best to support him, even when JJ doesn’t want help. That’s where the story becomes painful, because it’s not just about romance or second chances, but about the inner fight of a character who is breaking apart from the inside.
In the end, this book is a reminder of something very important: mental health and the importance of communication. I’m not talking about just speaking, but truly expressing ourselves, not letting problems grow until they end up destroying us. This is a beautiful book, yes. Beautiful, but at the same time, painful. Dear author, what did you do? I’d like to say I forgive you, but I don’t. This was far too sad. Was it really necessary? Honestly, was it? I saw your post on Threads and I know you cried while writing it, but for me it was like a knife straight to the heart. I didn’t see it coming, I wasn’t prepared.
Thank you for this wonderful book. But tell me, that ending—why do I have to wait until next June to continue?
I don’t know why, but when I was choosing my sign-ups in Love Notes PR, this book caught my attention. Maybe it was the title, or maybe the cover. Whatever the reason, the truth is that I ended up experiencing a real rollercoaster. I’m proud of myself because I completely stepped out of my comfort zone. I don’t usually read this kind of story with so many trigger warnings, and I’ll admit I was surprised. But most importantly, I’m really glad I did. Thank you to Love Notes PR and the author Laurea for the opportunity to read an early copy.
__________
At first glance, the premise seems very simple: a boy meets a girl. They don’t exchange numbers, they don’t share last names, just a fleeting encounter, and then they disappear from each other’s lives. Two years later, fate steps in: they meet again, but now she is the girlfriend of his roommate, who also happens to be the quarterback of the team he plays for. What looks like a straightforward story is actually much more. Our protagonist, Marley, carries the weight of a legacy she must honor and represent. He, JJ on the other hand, is a man scarred by the things he went through during those two years apart. The boy Marlene sees again is not the same one she met before, and that contrast is what makes the story much deeper than it first appears.
This is where the plot really takes shape. This book isn’t just about romance—it gives us so much more: love, acts of service, understanding, and a genuinely attentive male lead. She is a woman chasing her dreams, though weighed down by insecurities because of the legacy she must live up to. He is also fighting his own battles, but both of them share something very important: supportive parents. Marley is the heiress of a traditional family, while he is the second son of another well-regarded family. Their dreams are simple, almost ordinary, but very human: he dreams of mathematics and football; she dreams of learning to cook and of music. And it’s exactly that simplicity, that contrast between the weight of their legacy and the smallness of their desires, that gives the story its strength.
And here comes the big question: what makes this book so painful? The story is intense because JJ, our male protagonist, is struggling with a severe addiction. He is an addict, though he refuses to acknowledge it. And it’s not just a passing problem—it’s a family and psychological situation so deep that it leaves him completely lost within himself. The most heartbreaking part is that no one knows, except for his best friend Asher, who carries that secret and does his best to support him, even when JJ doesn’t want help. That’s where the story becomes painful, because it’s not just about romance or second chances, but about the inner fight of a character who is breaking apart from the inside.
In the end, this book is a reminder of something very important: mental health and the importance of communication. I’m not talking about just speaking, but truly expressing ourselves, not letting problems grow until they end up destroying us. This is a beautiful book, yes. Beautiful, but at the same time, painful. Dear author, what did you do? I’d like to say I forgive you, but I don’t. This was far too sad. Was it really necessary? Honestly, was it? I saw your post on Threads and I know you cried while writing it, but for me it was like a knife straight to the heart. I didn’t see it coming, I wasn’t prepared.
Thank you for this wonderful book. But tell me, that ending—why do I have to wait until next June to continue?
September 2, 2025
#Review: *Before You* - Laurea Matthews - ARC [18+]
5/5✨
3/5🌶️
[Prepare some tissues]
The first book I've read by Laurea (Chasing after you) convinced me to apply to be part of her permanent ARC team and I'm super grateful that she accepted me🫶🏼. Thank you so much for this superb e-ARC!
JJ and Marley met each other for the 1st time in France, where they spent one perfect day together, one which made possible to learn so many things about each other, making them feel like they've known each other for more than a couple of hours. But once that day was over, their ways split and their regret was that they didn't share any info to be able to reach out. Things remained that way until JJ randomly found Marley, who was now the girlfriend of one of his hockey teammates, Trent. But he wasn't that faithful to Marley and that destroyed their relationship. Now JJ was able to make his dreams come true and be with the girl he stuck in his mind and soul for all those years since they've first met. But things won't be easy at all because JJ was confronting with some pretty heavy stuff, which deeply affected him. Will they be able to fight against those things and find their happy ending?
I wasn't prepared at all for what this book was hiding behind this wonderful cover.🥺 The level of angst was pretty high and there were multiple times where I got super emotional. I cannot find the right words to express how sorry I felt for JJ and how happy I was knowing that he had Marley in his corner. Even though JJ was a big and strong football player, he was such a tender and kind guy, who would have done anything to protect the one he loved most, Marley. That also meant for him to hide some important things from her, fact which might shatter all they had together.
I was totally mesmerized by this book, which broke my heart into pieces. It was super hard for me to keep my tears at bay, until they came so strong I could resist anymore. I'm such a sucker for these kind of angsty romance books and this one didn't disappoint me at all. I could barely put it down, constantly wanting to know what would happen next. All the characters had a huge place in my heart, becoming super attached to them and their amazing personalities. Please check the trigger list before starting to read this book.
✨Tropes
#ReunitedLovers
#SecondChance
#LoveAtFirstSight
#RightPersonWrongTime
#HeFallsHarder
#AngstyRomance
#SportsRomance
#Football
#VirginMMC
5/5✨
3/5🌶️
[Prepare some tissues]
The first book I've read by Laurea (Chasing after you) convinced me to apply to be part of her permanent ARC team and I'm super grateful that she accepted me🫶🏼. Thank you so much for this superb e-ARC!
JJ and Marley met each other for the 1st time in France, where they spent one perfect day together, one which made possible to learn so many things about each other, making them feel like they've known each other for more than a couple of hours. But once that day was over, their ways split and their regret was that they didn't share any info to be able to reach out. Things remained that way until JJ randomly found Marley, who was now the girlfriend of one of his hockey teammates, Trent. But he wasn't that faithful to Marley and that destroyed their relationship. Now JJ was able to make his dreams come true and be with the girl he stuck in his mind and soul for all those years since they've first met. But things won't be easy at all because JJ was confronting with some pretty heavy stuff, which deeply affected him. Will they be able to fight against those things and find their happy ending?
I wasn't prepared at all for what this book was hiding behind this wonderful cover.🥺 The level of angst was pretty high and there were multiple times where I got super emotional. I cannot find the right words to express how sorry I felt for JJ and how happy I was knowing that he had Marley in his corner. Even though JJ was a big and strong football player, he was such a tender and kind guy, who would have done anything to protect the one he loved most, Marley. That also meant for him to hide some important things from her, fact which might shatter all they had together.
I was totally mesmerized by this book, which broke my heart into pieces. It was super hard for me to keep my tears at bay, until they came so strong I could resist anymore. I'm such a sucker for these kind of angsty romance books and this one didn't disappoint me at all. I could barely put it down, constantly wanting to know what would happen next. All the characters had a huge place in my heart, becoming super attached to them and their amazing personalities. Please check the trigger list before starting to read this book.
✨Tropes
#ReunitedLovers
#SecondChance
#LoveAtFirstSight
#RightPersonWrongTime
#HeFallsHarder
#AngstyRomance
#SportsRomance
#Football
#VirginMMC
June 21, 2026
Overall I don't think I liked the book. I was entertained but there are a lot of little things that didn't convince me. The writing sadly didn't do it for me.
I didn't like the insta-love, the rushed romantic confessions, the cheesiness or being spoon-fed at times as if I couldn't come to a conclusion without it being spelled it out for me.
The premise of the book is solved in the first chapters and isn't even an issue per se. Trent was suddenly forgotten, never to be heard of again. Not even a conversation after sabotaging JJ, but okay.
The book took a rough turn at the end, I must say I got emotional. But I also expected to see more of the after, it ended too suddenly.
I didn't like the insta-love, the rushed romantic confessions, the cheesiness or being spoon-fed at times as if I couldn't come to a conclusion without it being spelled it out for me.
The premise of the book is solved in the first chapters and isn't even an issue per se. Trent was suddenly forgotten, never to be heard of again. Not even a conversation after sabotaging JJ, but okay.
The book took a rough turn at the end, I must say I got emotional. But I also expected to see more of the after, it ended too suddenly.
August 28, 2025
Ugh! This book was soooooooo good. I loved every second of it. I was so curious what would happen with JJ and Marley after they spent 14 hours together in France. The fact that JJ knew the moment he me Marley, he loved her, just made my heart so happy. They are truly meant for one another. My heart broke for JJ and all the weight he took upon himself. He had so many demons and struggled to get through each day. I’m so glad he had Marley by his side when he faced his best and his worst days. There was quite a twist that I never saw coming. Ugh!! This was amazing and I cannot wait for the next book!
November 15, 2025
It was so hard to get through this. The concept was nice but the execution wasn't. I read this in so many breaks because I just wasn't invested and got bored after a few moments.
The writing was all over the place. There was so flow to it. At first I thought it is this author's first book but I came and checked it isn't. Just having correct grammer or adding different languages does not make the writing good
Also there was the other thing about both of the main characters spending a day together and falling in love but we get no actual good scenes of that day? Nothing that shows much connection or why they got head over heals. It was really underwhelming and the 5 total flashback scenes we got were nothing special at all
And that trauma near the end was really unnecessary
The writing was all over the place. There was so flow to it. At first I thought it is this author's first book but I came and checked it isn't. Just having correct grammer or adding different languages does not make the writing good
Also there was the other thing about both of the main characters spending a day together and falling in love but we get no actual good scenes of that day? Nothing that shows much connection or why they got head over heals. It was really underwhelming and the 5 total flashback scenes we got were nothing special at all
And that trauma near the end was really unnecessary
September 5, 2025
ARC review
Before You follows JJ and Marley as they navigate love, loss, and second chances, while also dealing with heavy themes like addiction and grief. I really liked the main characters, their love story, and the way these difficult topics were explored with care.
However, despite these important themes and the strong premise, I struggled to fully connect with the story.
It was a good read, but it didn’t completely pull me in.
Before You follows JJ and Marley as they navigate love, loss, and second chances, while also dealing with heavy themes like addiction and grief. I really liked the main characters, their love story, and the way these difficult topics were explored with care.
However, despite these important themes and the strong premise, I struggled to fully connect with the story.
It was a good read, but it didn’t completely pull me in.
August 29, 2025
Mental health rep
Right person wrong time
V!rgin MMC
Slow burn
Insta love/friends to lovers
Second chance
Forced proximity
Family pressures
Emotional!!
Immense grief
Letters/songs/strong connection
Comfort/healing
Thank you Laurea Matthews and love notes PR for my ARC, these are truly my own opinions.
This is the second book in the reckless series filled with angst! Please check the TW
This book is filled with so many emotions putting me through it, taking me along the ride, and I was hooked! JJ is dealing with a lot, filling the pressure from his family and Marley is so sweet there for JJ threw it all, the good and the bad. And man JJ has so many inner demons I really felt for him.
I love their connection and their friendship, the strength they provided for one another in different ways.
Their second meet cute where they reconnected when JJ is dating… Her roommate!! Their friendship/relationship is so beautiful. This story was written so beautifully 100% recommend the story!
Right person wrong time
V!rgin MMC
Slow burn
Insta love/friends to lovers
Second chance
Forced proximity
Family pressures
Emotional!!
Immense grief
Letters/songs/strong connection
Comfort/healing
Thank you Laurea Matthews and love notes PR for my ARC, these are truly my own opinions.
This is the second book in the reckless series filled with angst! Please check the TW
This book is filled with so many emotions putting me through it, taking me along the ride, and I was hooked! JJ is dealing with a lot, filling the pressure from his family and Marley is so sweet there for JJ threw it all, the good and the bad. And man JJ has so many inner demons I really felt for him.
I love their connection and their friendship, the strength they provided for one another in different ways.
Their second meet cute where they reconnected when JJ is dating… Her roommate!! Their friendship/relationship is so beautiful. This story was written so beautifully 100% recommend the story!
September 7, 2025
i was skimming cause i was bored and ready to finish the book and suddenly someone died? like what
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 25, 2025
Thank you Laurea Matthews & LoveNotes PR for this ARC. 💙
I am in total awe of this book.
Laurea is a new to me author, and my new GO TO AUTHOR!
This book is the second in The Reckless Love Series.
**Check trigger warnings please**
It’s full of angst, the whole book is just full of it, from the very beginning to the very end.
Marley & JJ met, feel in love and didn’t know anything but each others name… Fast forward two years and it’s like nothing has changed. EXCEPT IT HAS.
JJ is dealing through a lot and has a lot of pressure on his shoulders. Sometimes likes gets to much and you just break. Marley knows the struggles and is there for him through it all.
Heartbreak and all.
This is real, raw, heartbreaking, heartwarming, and healing.
I fell in love with Marley & JJ.
Their love their struggles and their everything
AND EVERY-TIME SHE CALLS HIM “amore mio” gez I nearly cried I loved it so much.
They didn’t deserve everything that happened hut the healing is what made it all better.
I will never not recommend this book enough, it’s easily one of my favorites this year, I love meeting new authors and Laurea has just become a new favorite of mine.
Thank you for this ARC once again. And please go add to your TBR! Out on August 29
While you wait Chasing After You is out now.
I am in total awe of this book.
Laurea is a new to me author, and my new GO TO AUTHOR!
This book is the second in The Reckless Love Series.
**Check trigger warnings please**
It’s full of angst, the whole book is just full of it, from the very beginning to the very end.
Marley & JJ met, feel in love and didn’t know anything but each others name… Fast forward two years and it’s like nothing has changed. EXCEPT IT HAS.
JJ is dealing through a lot and has a lot of pressure on his shoulders. Sometimes likes gets to much and you just break. Marley knows the struggles and is there for him through it all.
Heartbreak and all.
This is real, raw, heartbreaking, heartwarming, and healing.
I fell in love with Marley & JJ.
Their love their struggles and their everything
AND EVERY-TIME SHE CALLS HIM “amore mio” gez I nearly cried I loved it so much.
They didn’t deserve everything that happened hut the healing is what made it all better.
I will never not recommend this book enough, it’s easily one of my favorites this year, I love meeting new authors and Laurea has just become a new favorite of mine.
Thank you for this ARC once again. And please go add to your TBR! Out on August 29
While you wait Chasing After You is out now.
August 30, 2025
I can’t say that I haven’t been crying for the past hour after finishing this story 🥹 it was an insanely good read! So much that I’ll have to give it 6 stars! You’ll laugh a lot your heart will break for JJ’s and Marley’s love for each other and you’ll fall in love with every single side character. Chapter 11 and 15 were my favorites. My heart is lowkey broken 💔 but I still love this story nonetheless 😭 The ending will leave you in tears but it’s worth it! There’s some spice but above anything this story is a romance story that will bring you to tears and not always of joy. Highly recommend only if you can bear it! 🤣🖤 Thank you Love Notes PR and Laurea for an eARC/Physical
Spice: 🌶️🌶️
Spice: 🌶️🌶️
September 4, 2025
ARC review - Before you 🩵
Firstly , I'm not a big fan of friends to lovers trope but this book proved me wrong 👀 . So we have JJ Walker ( The MMC ) and Maley Benson ( The FMC ) . JJ is a football player and Marley is Billionaire heiress . And the destiny pre decided but sometimes right people take time to get you .
Final verdict - I'm loving sport romances these days and you'll love this book 🩵
Rating - 4/5 ⭐
Firstly , I'm not a big fan of friends to lovers trope but this book proved me wrong 👀 . So we have JJ Walker ( The MMC ) and Maley Benson ( The FMC ) . JJ is a football player and Marley is Billionaire heiress . And the destiny pre decided but sometimes right people take time to get you .
Final verdict - I'm loving sport romances these days and you'll love this book 🩵
Rating - 4/5 ⭐
August 18, 2025
— ARC Review : 4 stars ✰
⋆˚࿔ this is my first book from laurea and i really enjoyed it! the story was better than i expected. i liked the storyline especially the backstory, the relationship growth and how both characters went through their healing journey. the connection between jj and marley felt real and not forced. the only thing for me is that the pacing and timeline felt abit too fast which made it slightly unrealistic. but overall it was a good read.
Thank you to Laurea Matthews & Love Note PR for the ARC in exchange for my honest review!
⋆˚࿔ this is my first book from laurea and i really enjoyed it! the story was better than i expected. i liked the storyline especially the backstory, the relationship growth and how both characters went through their healing journey. the connection between jj and marley felt real and not forced. the only thing for me is that the pacing and timeline felt abit too fast which made it slightly unrealistic. but overall it was a good read.
Thank you to Laurea Matthews & Love Note PR for the ARC in exchange for my honest review!
September 16, 2025
Holy cow…
Absolutely speechless one of my favorite reads of the year
soooooo this review will contain a LOT of spoilers because I need reminders for Baileys book which is next
They meet in France when she is lost and spend the day together they don’t exchange last names but instantly know that it is love at first sight
Almost THREE years later… she walks in to his college house dating his room mate.. whooooo the whole time had been cheating on her and the roommates didn’t know he even had a girlfriend (awesome scene where he JJ tells him he will ruin his career if he doesn’t leave her alone) she finds out about the cheating when she shows up to break up with him and he’s with another girl
She is mad at JJ for a bit because she feels like he lied to her but don’t worry her bestie Bria which is a awesome side character tells her that’s nonsense
JJ and Bria form a friendship first they run together
Asher and Bria the Main MMCs best fiends also start dating
JJ and Marley start off as friends he’s very respectful but he immediately starts buying her flowers which in their family is a proposal (Her Christmas gift that year was a gold flower necklace🥹🥹)
So the drama JJ had knee surgery the December before they met and became addicted to oxy. His sister had kind of thought something was up so he started being a hateful of her. He had told Asher it was Tylenol and then he goes to a party while he had taken a pill and drank, and Charleigh!! walked in, which was Asher’s cousin to a girl filling him up after he had said no he was interested and tried to push her away. He was high as a kite Charleigh!! took him home. He slept on the bathroom floor. She told Asher what was going on. Asher finally asked him what he was on. He finally told him the truth said he’d get rid of all the pills he did. It was sober for two months Bailey called which is his brother that left. Sidenote Bailey also burned down their family home and started a fire beside the beach house before he ran away saying everyone was a liar. It is stated that Bailey kissed Kaitlin and I think that had something to do with it because now Kaitlin is dating his twin brother Hunter, but sidetrack sorry one night when Bailey called. He had left a pill in his gym bag and he took it and went running. Bri went with him the next day. Asher called him out and Asher took him to an AA meeting. Thanks. Get better Bailey calls again instead he has a freak out and tells Asher he needs to go to a meeting while they’re headed to the meeting. They get in a car wreck and Asher dies… Bria had just admitted she liked him 🥹🥹 That’s how we end with her JJ admits to being an addict. The hospital had given him painkillers, and Marley had to tell them he was an addict, and then she called her parents and his parents. Her mom was a former addict and they all decide he should make the decision if he wants to go get help and he does. He spends six weeks and rehab. His sister and brother-in-law moved there to take care of him after he moves out and be his watch is kind of Marley’s dad was not OK with them staying together after this, but he understood why she wanted to because he’s in the same situation and instead he respects it and then he gets his company too the Uncle so she doesn’t have to run it and she can follow her dreams they stay together
One of the big takeaways he wrote her letters the three years they were apart kind of like a diary while he was in rehab. He told her mom to get them for her and she read them while he was gone, and it describes every feeling he went through his addiction all of it. It was kind of like his diary, but to her because he loved her.
In the epilogue, it’s seven months later we see them all at the beach house Mira is pregnant with twins JJ and Marley are about to leave to go to Europe when they open the door to leave Bailey staying in the kid and in the phone call he had said that he was living on the streets cause he didn’t deserve a home so I have no idea where we’re going with that
JJ Walker 🥹🥹 he’s everything the sweetest man ever
The flower shop that he went to was owned by an old man. His wife passed away. He also helped there. I’m telling you this guy was the sweetest thing.
-He’s a virgin, has has kissed girls but no one since he kissed her in France
-She had been with two people she was a virgin but decided she wasn’t going to find JJ again and slept with her friend Leo which we never met. And JJ roommate Trey.. 👎
We also need a Bria book!!!
Absolutely speechless one of my favorite reads of the year
soooooo this review will contain a LOT of spoilers because I need reminders for Baileys book which is next
They meet in France when she is lost and spend the day together they don’t exchange last names but instantly know that it is love at first sight
Almost THREE years later… she walks in to his college house dating his room mate.. whooooo the whole time had been cheating on her and the roommates didn’t know he even had a girlfriend (awesome scene where he JJ tells him he will ruin his career if he doesn’t leave her alone) she finds out about the cheating when she shows up to break up with him and he’s with another girl
She is mad at JJ for a bit because she feels like he lied to her but don’t worry her bestie Bria which is a awesome side character tells her that’s nonsense
JJ and Bria form a friendship first they run together
Asher and Bria the Main MMCs best fiends also start dating
JJ and Marley start off as friends he’s very respectful but he immediately starts buying her flowers which in their family is a proposal (Her Christmas gift that year was a gold flower necklace🥹🥹)
So the drama JJ had knee surgery the December before they met and became addicted to oxy. His sister had kind of thought something was up so he started being a hateful of her. He had told Asher it was Tylenol and then he goes to a party while he had taken a pill and drank, and Charleigh!! walked in, which was Asher’s cousin to a girl filling him up after he had said no he was interested and tried to push her away. He was high as a kite Charleigh!! took him home. He slept on the bathroom floor. She told Asher what was going on. Asher finally asked him what he was on. He finally told him the truth said he’d get rid of all the pills he did. It was sober for two months Bailey called which is his brother that left. Sidenote Bailey also burned down their family home and started a fire beside the beach house before he ran away saying everyone was a liar. It is stated that Bailey kissed Kaitlin and I think that had something to do with it because now Kaitlin is dating his twin brother Hunter, but sidetrack sorry one night when Bailey called. He had left a pill in his gym bag and he took it and went running. Bri went with him the next day. Asher called him out and Asher took him to an AA meeting. Thanks. Get better Bailey calls again instead he has a freak out and tells Asher he needs to go to a meeting while they’re headed to the meeting. They get in a car wreck and Asher dies… Bria had just admitted she liked him 🥹🥹 That’s how we end with her JJ admits to being an addict. The hospital had given him painkillers, and Marley had to tell them he was an addict, and then she called her parents and his parents. Her mom was a former addict and they all decide he should make the decision if he wants to go get help and he does. He spends six weeks and rehab. His sister and brother-in-law moved there to take care of him after he moves out and be his watch is kind of Marley’s dad was not OK with them staying together after this, but he understood why she wanted to because he’s in the same situation and instead he respects it and then he gets his company too the Uncle so she doesn’t have to run it and she can follow her dreams they stay together
One of the big takeaways he wrote her letters the three years they were apart kind of like a diary while he was in rehab. He told her mom to get them for her and she read them while he was gone, and it describes every feeling he went through his addiction all of it. It was kind of like his diary, but to her because he loved her.
In the epilogue, it’s seven months later we see them all at the beach house Mira is pregnant with twins JJ and Marley are about to leave to go to Europe when they open the door to leave Bailey staying in the kid and in the phone call he had said that he was living on the streets cause he didn’t deserve a home so I have no idea where we’re going with that
JJ Walker 🥹🥹 he’s everything the sweetest man ever
The flower shop that he went to was owned by an old man. His wife passed away. He also helped there. I’m telling you this guy was the sweetest thing.
-He’s a virgin, has has kissed girls but no one since he kissed her in France
-She had been with two people she was a virgin but decided she wasn’t going to find JJ again and slept with her friend Leo which we never met. And JJ roommate Trey.. 👎
We also need a Bria book!!!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
April 7, 2026
my gosh, Laurea has done it again! based on the first book, i never would have imagined all the weight that JJ was carrying on his shoulders. ALSO, ever since i read about JJ pining for this girl he met in France years ago in book 1, I HAVE BEEN INTRIGUED! and i think their love story is so perfect. the little cliffhanger in the epilogue has me wanting to go pay Laurea a little visit and snatch her computer because LET ME SEE WHAT HAPPENS PLEASE🧎🏻♀️➡️
╰┈➤ 𝙅𝙅 𝙒𝙖𝙡𝙠𝙚𝙧🏈 : wowie, this man really counted the days since he last saw Marley, in hopes of seeing her again one day. JJ was the first virgin mmc that i have ever read and it was everything! his love and kindness always felt so genuine and despite his struggles, i still found him to be so freaking strong.
╰┈➤ 𝙈𝙖𝙧𝙡𝙚𝙮 𝘽𝙚𝙣𝙨𝙤𝙣🎼 : i love how much marley reciprocated all of JJ’s efforts, she was truly such a sweet and strong girl. she also put other people’s needs and happiness before her own which broke my heart at times.
╰┈➤ 𝙅𝙅 𝙒𝙖𝙡𝙠𝙚𝙧🏈 : wowie, this man really counted the days since he last saw Marley, in hopes of seeing her again one day. JJ was the first virgin mmc that i have ever read and it was everything! his love and kindness always felt so genuine and despite his struggles, i still found him to be so freaking strong.
╰┈➤ 𝙈𝙖𝙧𝙡𝙚𝙮 𝘽𝙚𝙣𝙨𝙤𝙣🎼 : i love how much marley reciprocated all of JJ’s efforts, she was truly such a sweet and strong girl. she also put other people’s needs and happiness before her own which broke my heart at times.
September 14, 2025
I fear there were far too many things happening
September 4, 2025
𝐀𝐑𝐂 𝐑𝐞𝐯𝐢𝐞𝐰
JJ and Marley are messy, complicated, and imperfect but that’s what makes their love feel so real. It’s raw, it’s emotional, and it’s the kind of romance that lingers long after you put the book down.
𝗧𝗛𝗘 𝗦𝗧𝗢𝗥𝗬
Before You is a college romance filled with angst, longing, and the messy complications of fate. The story follows JJ Walker, a football player still haunted by a fleeting but unforgettable encounter with a girl he met years ago in France. When that girl—Marley Benson—suddenly reenters his life, he’s shocked to find she’s now dating his teammate and roommate, Trent. What unfolds is a tale of forbidden connection, hidden truths, and the fight between loyalty and love.
𝗧𝗛𝗘 𝗖𝗛𝗔𝗥𝗔𝗖𝗧𝗘𝗥𝗦
JJ is the heart of the story. He's layered with both strength and vulnerability. On the surface, he’s the typical college football star: talented, determined, and easygoing around his teammates. Beneath that, though, he carries scars both physical and emotional. His defining trait is loyalty especially to Marley. JJ is protective, self sacrificing, and yet reckless when it comes to risking his heart.
Marley is the daughter of a billionaire family, with a life mapped out for her that she isn’t sure she wants. She’s smart, creative, and passionate about music, but weighed down by family expectations. She wants to do the right thing but can’t deny what she feels. She’s gentle, strong, and caught in a tug of war between duty and desire.
𝗧𝗛𝗘 𝗥𝗘𝗟𝗔𝗧𝗜𝗢𝗡𝗦𝗛𝗜𝗣 & 𝗥𝗢𝗠𝗔𝗡𝗖𝗘
The romance in Before You isn’t just about attraction, it’s about soul deep connection. JJ and Marley’s bond feels bigger than circumstance, almost like fate keeps pushing them together. Their relationship is layered with longing, restraint, and an undeniable pull that makes every interaction feel charged. It’s not just about passion (though there’s plenty of that), it’s about the way they see and understand each other in ways no one else can.
What makes this love story stand out is how it blends sweetness with intensity. JJ and Marley don’t just flirt around the edges. There’s this constant tension between what they want and what they’re trying not to want, and that push and pull makes the slow burn so addictive. You can feel the ache of two people who know they belong together but can’t just reach for it.
The story also digs into real struggles. JJ is dealing with a knee injury and a growing reliance on painkillers, and that vulnerability makes his love for Marley even more powerful. She isn’t just a distraction or a fling, she’s his anchor, the person who reminds him of who he wants to be. In turn, Marley carries her own pressures from family expectations, but JJ gives her the space to just be herself. Their connection is both healing and consuming, showing how love can be both a refuge and a risk.
𝗙𝗜𝗡𝗔𝗟 𝗧𝗛𝗢𝗨𝗚𝗛𝗧𝗦
If you love slow burn, emotional romances with a heavy dose of angst and complicated love triangles, Before You is a must read. Laurea Matthews weaves together themes of fate, family, and forbidden love into a story that keeps your heart racing. JJ and Marley’s chemistry leaps off the page, and their love feels destined yet dangerous. Perfect for fans of college sports romance, heartfelt character development, and stories where love refuses to be forgotten.
ARC provided by Love Notes PR
JJ and Marley are messy, complicated, and imperfect but that’s what makes their love feel so real. It’s raw, it’s emotional, and it’s the kind of romance that lingers long after you put the book down.
𝗧𝗛𝗘 𝗦𝗧𝗢𝗥𝗬
Before You is a college romance filled with angst, longing, and the messy complications of fate. The story follows JJ Walker, a football player still haunted by a fleeting but unforgettable encounter with a girl he met years ago in France. When that girl—Marley Benson—suddenly reenters his life, he’s shocked to find she’s now dating his teammate and roommate, Trent. What unfolds is a tale of forbidden connection, hidden truths, and the fight between loyalty and love.
𝗧𝗛𝗘 𝗖𝗛𝗔𝗥𝗔𝗖𝗧𝗘𝗥𝗦
JJ is the heart of the story. He's layered with both strength and vulnerability. On the surface, he’s the typical college football star: talented, determined, and easygoing around his teammates. Beneath that, though, he carries scars both physical and emotional. His defining trait is loyalty especially to Marley. JJ is protective, self sacrificing, and yet reckless when it comes to risking his heart.
Marley is the daughter of a billionaire family, with a life mapped out for her that she isn’t sure she wants. She’s smart, creative, and passionate about music, but weighed down by family expectations. She wants to do the right thing but can’t deny what she feels. She’s gentle, strong, and caught in a tug of war between duty and desire.
𝗧𝗛𝗘 𝗥𝗘𝗟𝗔𝗧𝗜𝗢𝗡𝗦𝗛𝗜𝗣 & 𝗥𝗢𝗠𝗔𝗡𝗖𝗘
The romance in Before You isn’t just about attraction, it’s about soul deep connection. JJ and Marley’s bond feels bigger than circumstance, almost like fate keeps pushing them together. Their relationship is layered with longing, restraint, and an undeniable pull that makes every interaction feel charged. It’s not just about passion (though there’s plenty of that), it’s about the way they see and understand each other in ways no one else can.
What makes this love story stand out is how it blends sweetness with intensity. JJ and Marley don’t just flirt around the edges. There’s this constant tension between what they want and what they’re trying not to want, and that push and pull makes the slow burn so addictive. You can feel the ache of two people who know they belong together but can’t just reach for it.
The story also digs into real struggles. JJ is dealing with a knee injury and a growing reliance on painkillers, and that vulnerability makes his love for Marley even more powerful. She isn’t just a distraction or a fling, she’s his anchor, the person who reminds him of who he wants to be. In turn, Marley carries her own pressures from family expectations, but JJ gives her the space to just be herself. Their connection is both healing and consuming, showing how love can be both a refuge and a risk.
𝗙𝗜𝗡𝗔𝗟 𝗧𝗛𝗢𝗨𝗚𝗛𝗧𝗦
If you love slow burn, emotional romances with a heavy dose of angst and complicated love triangles, Before You is a must read. Laurea Matthews weaves together themes of fate, family, and forbidden love into a story that keeps your heart racing. JJ and Marley’s chemistry leaps off the page, and their love feels destined yet dangerous. Perfect for fans of college sports romance, heartfelt character development, and stories where love refuses to be forgotten.
ARC provided by Love Notes PR
September 4, 2025
You might think this book is just another sports romance but think again. It’s deep and it’s raw—showing a completely different (and REAL) side to the pressure of being an athlete. But woven in, is the romance that begins when a boy (JJ) meets a girl (Marley) and they spend ONE day together, only to go their separate ways.
BUT HERE’S THE TWIST: it’s two years later when they see each other again and she’s dating his roommate…who also happens to be his teammate. 𝘋𝘌𝘈𝘋.
JJ is the EXACT opposite of what you might expect from a collegiate football player at the top of his game. He’s layered—vulnerable and raw—carrying pain from an injury, the weight of a missing brother, and a quiet battle with a hidden addiction. Beneath the bravado is someone who feels 𝘦𝘷𝘦𝘳𝘺𝘵𝘩𝘪𝘯𝘨 too much and is just barely holding on. But, even in his silent suffering, he’s selfless to a fault, putting everyone else’s needs above his own.
And Marley isn’t just her last name—an heiress set to inherit her father’s billion dollar company. She’s just a girl who wants to figure out who she is—through music, friendships, and love. I loved her character for her softness in the tender moments, but her infallible courage against the VERY REAL secondary trauma that happens when dealing with addiction.
“𝙇𝙤𝙜𝙞𝙘𝙖𝙡𝙡𝙮, 𝙄 𝙠𝙣𝙤𝙬 𝙩𝙝𝙞𝙨 𝙞𝙨 𝙖 𝙗𝙖𝙙 𝙞𝙙𝙚𝙖, 𝙗𝙪𝙩 𝙛𝙤𝙧 𝙩𝙝𝙚 𝙨𝙚𝙘𝙤𝙣𝙙 𝙩𝙞𝙢𝙚 𝙞𝙣 𝙢𝙮 𝙡𝙞𝙛𝙚, 𝙄 𝙙𝙤𝙣’𝙩 𝙬𝙖𝙣𝙩 𝙩𝙤 𝙥𝙡𝙖𝙮 𝙞𝙩 𝙨𝙖𝙛𝙚. 𝙃𝙚 𝙢𝙖𝙠𝙚𝙨 𝙢𝙚 𝙬𝙖𝙣𝙩 𝙩𝙤 𝙗𝙚 𝙧𝙚𝙘𝙠𝙡𝙚𝙨𝙨.”
When these two find each other again—it’s beautiful and electric—and messy in all the best ways. There’s heartbreak, temptation, secrets, and tension that makes this the kind of slow burn that HURTS in the best way. The push and pull of belonging to someone else, the ache of what could have been, the quiet devastation of timing gone wrong—it all hits so hard.
“𝙄 𝙣𝙚𝙫𝙚𝙧 𝙝𝙖𝙙 𝙖 𝙙𝙤𝙪𝙗𝙩 𝙖𝙗𝙤𝙪𝙩 𝙛𝙞𝙣𝙙𝙞𝙣𝙜 𝙮𝙤𝙪, 𝙈𝙖𝙧𝙡𝙚𝙮. 𝙔𝙤𝙪’𝙧𝙚 𝙢𝙮 𝙤𝙣𝙘𝙚 𝙞𝙣 𝙖 𝙡𝙞𝙛𝙚𝙩𝙞𝙢𝙚.”
The side characters make this book even richer—Asher & Bria—they had me laughing. And the Walker family dynamic from the first book shined just as bright in this book. It gave the story the family depth I crave.
What made this book truly stand out is how it blended romance with heavier themes: addiction, mental health, family legacy, and the desperate, beautiful need for connection. By the end, I literally wanted throw up and cry of happiness ALL at the same time.
“𝙀𝙫𝙚𝙧𝙮 𝙨𝙞𝙣𝙜𝙡𝙚 𝙢𝙤𝙢𝙚𝙣𝙩 𝙗𝙚𝙛𝙤𝙧𝙚 𝙮𝙤𝙪 𝙘𝙖𝙢𝙚 𝙞𝙣𝙩𝙤 𝙢𝙮 𝙡𝙞𝙛𝙚 𝙥𝙖𝙡𝙚𝙨 𝙞𝙣 𝙘𝙤𝙢𝙥𝙖𝙧𝙞𝙨𝙤𝙣 𝙖𝙛𝙩𝙚𝙧 𝙢𝙚𝙚𝙩𝙞𝙣𝙜 𝙮𝙤𝙪.”
This sports romance isn’t just another trope…it FEELS. And book three, I have a feeling, is going to be even more devastating…bring on the emotional damage.
Thank you to Laurea Matthews & Love Notes PR for this arc opportunity!
BUT HERE’S THE TWIST: it’s two years later when they see each other again and she’s dating his roommate…who also happens to be his teammate. 𝘋𝘌𝘈𝘋.
JJ is the EXACT opposite of what you might expect from a collegiate football player at the top of his game. He’s layered—vulnerable and raw—carrying pain from an injury, the weight of a missing brother, and a quiet battle with a hidden addiction. Beneath the bravado is someone who feels 𝘦𝘷𝘦𝘳𝘺𝘵𝘩𝘪𝘯𝘨 too much and is just barely holding on. But, even in his silent suffering, he’s selfless to a fault, putting everyone else’s needs above his own.
And Marley isn’t just her last name—an heiress set to inherit her father’s billion dollar company. She’s just a girl who wants to figure out who she is—through music, friendships, and love. I loved her character for her softness in the tender moments, but her infallible courage against the VERY REAL secondary trauma that happens when dealing with addiction.
“𝙇𝙤𝙜𝙞𝙘𝙖𝙡𝙡𝙮, 𝙄 𝙠𝙣𝙤𝙬 𝙩𝙝𝙞𝙨 𝙞𝙨 𝙖 𝙗𝙖𝙙 𝙞𝙙𝙚𝙖, 𝙗𝙪𝙩 𝙛𝙤𝙧 𝙩𝙝𝙚 𝙨𝙚𝙘𝙤𝙣𝙙 𝙩𝙞𝙢𝙚 𝙞𝙣 𝙢𝙮 𝙡𝙞𝙛𝙚, 𝙄 𝙙𝙤𝙣’𝙩 𝙬𝙖𝙣𝙩 𝙩𝙤 𝙥𝙡𝙖𝙮 𝙞𝙩 𝙨𝙖𝙛𝙚. 𝙃𝙚 𝙢𝙖𝙠𝙚𝙨 𝙢𝙚 𝙬𝙖𝙣𝙩 𝙩𝙤 𝙗𝙚 𝙧𝙚𝙘𝙠𝙡𝙚𝙨𝙨.”
When these two find each other again—it’s beautiful and electric—and messy in all the best ways. There’s heartbreak, temptation, secrets, and tension that makes this the kind of slow burn that HURTS in the best way. The push and pull of belonging to someone else, the ache of what could have been, the quiet devastation of timing gone wrong—it all hits so hard.
“𝙄 𝙣𝙚𝙫𝙚𝙧 𝙝𝙖𝙙 𝙖 𝙙𝙤𝙪𝙗𝙩 𝙖𝙗𝙤𝙪𝙩 𝙛𝙞𝙣𝙙𝙞𝙣𝙜 𝙮𝙤𝙪, 𝙈𝙖𝙧𝙡𝙚𝙮. 𝙔𝙤𝙪’𝙧𝙚 𝙢𝙮 𝙤𝙣𝙘𝙚 𝙞𝙣 𝙖 𝙡𝙞𝙛𝙚𝙩𝙞𝙢𝙚.”
The side characters make this book even richer—Asher & Bria—they had me laughing. And the Walker family dynamic from the first book shined just as bright in this book. It gave the story the family depth I crave.
What made this book truly stand out is how it blended romance with heavier themes: addiction, mental health, family legacy, and the desperate, beautiful need for connection. By the end, I literally wanted throw up and cry of happiness ALL at the same time.
“𝙀𝙫𝙚𝙧𝙮 𝙨𝙞𝙣𝙜𝙡𝙚 𝙢𝙤𝙢𝙚𝙣𝙩 𝙗𝙚𝙛𝙤𝙧𝙚 𝙮𝙤𝙪 𝙘𝙖𝙢𝙚 𝙞𝙣𝙩𝙤 𝙢𝙮 𝙡𝙞𝙛𝙚 𝙥𝙖𝙡𝙚𝙨 𝙞𝙣 𝙘𝙤𝙢𝙥𝙖𝙧𝙞𝙨𝙤𝙣 𝙖𝙛𝙩𝙚𝙧 𝙢𝙚𝙚𝙩𝙞𝙣𝙜 𝙮𝙤𝙪.”
This sports romance isn’t just another trope…it FEELS. And book three, I have a feeling, is going to be even more devastating…bring on the emotional damage.
Thank you to Laurea Matthews & Love Notes PR for this arc opportunity!
August 30, 2025
At first, Before You seems like a classic sports romance setup. They meet, the boy loses her, and two years later fate brings them back together. Except now, she’s dating his roommate, who also happens to be his teammate😂😂 SCREAM WITH ME😂😂 AHHHH
JJ isn’t just the cocky football player we meet at the start. He’s layered and vulnerable, weighed down by pain, injury, and a missing brother he can’t stop worrying about. He’s also hiding an addiction that no one truly sees except for his best friend. Underneath the swagger is someone who’s struggling, who feels everything too much, and who clings desperately to the girl he thought he’d lost forever. (This man.)
Laurea, how do you manage to always write the most perfect men 😭
Marley, on the other hand, has her family’s legacy to deal with. She’s the billionaire heiress who should have everything, but really she’s just a girl who wants to figure out who she is, through music, through friendships, through love. What makes her stand out is that contrast: the pressure of her world vs the softness of her actual dreams.
When they find each other again, their chemistry is beautiful and electric and painful too. The tension of knowing she belongs to someone else, the heartbreak of JJ’s private struggles, the messiness of secrets and timing, it all builds into this aching, addictive slow burn.
The side characters also bring so much life to the story too. Asher, Bria, Mirabelle, they made the world feel full and alive. Some made me laugh, some made me cry, and some made me want to shake them.
But what really makes this book hit hard is it’s blends of romance with deeper themes: addiction, mental health, sibling bonds, and all. It’s a beautiful love story.
By the end, my chest physically hurt and Icl, I crewed😂😂 but I still couldn’t stop reading.
Easily a five-star read🩵
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
JJ isn’t just the cocky football player we meet at the start. He’s layered and vulnerable, weighed down by pain, injury, and a missing brother he can’t stop worrying about. He’s also hiding an addiction that no one truly sees except for his best friend. Underneath the swagger is someone who’s struggling, who feels everything too much, and who clings desperately to the girl he thought he’d lost forever. (This man.)
Laurea, how do you manage to always write the most perfect men 😭
Marley, on the other hand, has her family’s legacy to deal with. She’s the billionaire heiress who should have everything, but really she’s just a girl who wants to figure out who she is, through music, through friendships, through love. What makes her stand out is that contrast: the pressure of her world vs the softness of her actual dreams.
When they find each other again, their chemistry is beautiful and electric and painful too. The tension of knowing she belongs to someone else, the heartbreak of JJ’s private struggles, the messiness of secrets and timing, it all builds into this aching, addictive slow burn.
The side characters also bring so much life to the story too. Asher, Bria, Mirabelle, they made the world feel full and alive. Some made me laugh, some made me cry, and some made me want to shake them.
But what really makes this book hit hard is it’s blends of romance with deeper themes: addiction, mental health, sibling bonds, and all. It’s a beautiful love story.
By the end, my chest physically hurt and Icl, I crewed😂😂 but I still couldn’t stop reading.
Easily a five-star read🩵
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
August 29, 2025
UUGH!! I knew from the first chapter this book was going to break me in all the best ways. And while it did, it did NOT happen at ALL like I thought it was going to play out and for that I'm so grateful. And frankly, that made this read even better than I'd originally expected. I even put off reading this book on several occasions to help me be in the headspace I thought I needed to be in. This book is a continuation from Chasing After You - and while you don't have to read the first one - it does help set up alot of this storyline. We do also get to see the continuing story of the other Walker's in this book, which I love in a series.
MMC JJ is across the country from his family for football and is recovering from ACL surgery to start the season. FMC Marly just transferred - mostly to get away from the pressures and expectations of her family name. They reconnect for their second chance. I'm glad that they work out the initial problems (Marley's crappy ex)early in the story - so we watch their relationship develop and their growth arc - both as individuals and a couple. While Marley is battling family expectations - JJ is struggling with an addiction, as well as the weight of a family situation no young adult should have to shoulder alone. While his addiction struggle is a weight, the family dynamic was for me, even more of a knife to the heart. There was an story twist that I did not see coming that had me crying in my office at work while I was reading and really Laurea DID YOU HAVE TO DO THAT TO US! Overall, I loved this book - even more than the first one and I'm super sad that we're not going to get the next story in this series for almost a year.
Thank you Laurea Matthews and LoveNote PR for the chance to ARC read this beautiful story.
MMC JJ is across the country from his family for football and is recovering from ACL surgery to start the season. FMC Marly just transferred - mostly to get away from the pressures and expectations of her family name. They reconnect for their second chance. I'm glad that they work out the initial problems (Marley's crappy ex)early in the story - so we watch their relationship develop and their growth arc - both as individuals and a couple. While Marley is battling family expectations - JJ is struggling with an addiction, as well as the weight of a family situation no young adult should have to shoulder alone. While his addiction struggle is a weight, the family dynamic was for me, even more of a knife to the heart. There was an story twist that I did not see coming that had me crying in my office at work while I was reading and really Laurea DID YOU HAVE TO DO THAT TO US! Overall, I loved this book - even more than the first one and I'm super sad that we're not going to get the next story in this series for almost a year.
Thank you Laurea Matthews and LoveNote PR for the chance to ARC read this beautiful story.
September 3, 2025
4 stars
Book 2 of the Reckless Love series, follows Mira’s younger brother JJ during his junior year of college. JJ and Marley have a Nora Ephron meet cute in France. They spend one perfect day together only sharing their first names. The perfect day falling in love ends and they go their separate ways. Two years pass until they get their second meet cute. Marley transfers to JJs college and is dating the starting quarterback and JJs roommate. The spark is still there and after months of being just friends and one break up later, the spark ignites.
Besides their deep love for each other. The story focuses on JJ and the stress he carries for his family. His younger brother, Bailey, is a runaway and the only person he calls to check in every few months is JJ. He has to carry that burden and report back to his parents and siblings that he is no closer to finding Bailey or bringing him home. This stress along with chronic leg pain are the real backbone of the story.
Following the author on social media, the book heavily noted that there was no cheating between Marley and JJ. While true, it seems unnecessary. There were other tropes and storylines that were a larger focus of the story. The burden that JJ carries about his brother Bailey really drives the story.
My two "everyone's a critic”
~After finishing Chasing After You I was so excited to keep reading about the Walker siblings. Bailey was mentioned in book 1 as well and in book 2 he is still a background character that is an undertone of the book yet his story didn’t flush out further.
~The narrative of JJ’s leg pain and family stress felt repetitive.
Book 2 of the Reckless Love series, follows Mira’s younger brother JJ during his junior year of college. JJ and Marley have a Nora Ephron meet cute in France. They spend one perfect day together only sharing their first names. The perfect day falling in love ends and they go their separate ways. Two years pass until they get their second meet cute. Marley transfers to JJs college and is dating the starting quarterback and JJs roommate. The spark is still there and after months of being just friends and one break up later, the spark ignites.
Besides their deep love for each other. The story focuses on JJ and the stress he carries for his family. His younger brother, Bailey, is a runaway and the only person he calls to check in every few months is JJ. He has to carry that burden and report back to his parents and siblings that he is no closer to finding Bailey or bringing him home. This stress along with chronic leg pain are the real backbone of the story.
Following the author on social media, the book heavily noted that there was no cheating between Marley and JJ. While true, it seems unnecessary. There were other tropes and storylines that were a larger focus of the story. The burden that JJ carries about his brother Bailey really drives the story.
My two "everyone's a critic”
~After finishing Chasing After You I was so excited to keep reading about the Walker siblings. Bailey was mentioned in book 1 as well and in book 2 he is still a background character that is an undertone of the book yet his story didn’t flush out further.
~The narrative of JJ’s leg pain and family stress felt repetitive.
September 5, 2025
Title: Chasing After You
Author: Laurea Matthews
Genre: Sports Romance
Release Date: August 29, 2025
Rating: 4/5 stars ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Spice Level: 2.5/5 🌶️
“Before You” is the second book of the ‘Reckless Love’ series. It is the fourth book I’ve read by Laurea Matthews and my second ARC from her. It is a Sports Romance with subgenres being slow burn, friends to lovers, and right person wrong time. It deals with a lot of big topics around mental health.
Things that I love about this book is that it deals with struggles, but is still positive about them instead of shaming. It gives different perspectives on how different people deal with situations. The spice is there, but not too spicy and still lots of romance. The storyline is continuous with the other books before it and brings in characters periodically that were seen before. I love the characters and how nothing is stagnant, there’s always something happening to keep you captivated.
What made it 4 stars for me was that some of the expectations and timing were a bit unrealistic considering all that happened across the story. But overall this book was beautifully written with the use of different languages and romance. I really was not expecting the twists that appeared and it left me feeling emotional.
One of the best birthday presents (same as release date) I’ve gotten for sure! Excited to read the next story about Bailey because I am even more curious now after reading this book.
I received an ARC (Advanced Readers Copy) in exchange for an honest review. These thoughts are entirely my own! Thank you to Laurea Matthews and Love Notes PR for choosing me to receive an early copy! (:
Author: Laurea Matthews
Genre: Sports Romance
Release Date: August 29, 2025
Rating: 4/5 stars ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Spice Level: 2.5/5 🌶️
“Before You” is the second book of the ‘Reckless Love’ series. It is the fourth book I’ve read by Laurea Matthews and my second ARC from her. It is a Sports Romance with subgenres being slow burn, friends to lovers, and right person wrong time. It deals with a lot of big topics around mental health.
Things that I love about this book is that it deals with struggles, but is still positive about them instead of shaming. It gives different perspectives on how different people deal with situations. The spice is there, but not too spicy and still lots of romance. The storyline is continuous with the other books before it and brings in characters periodically that were seen before. I love the characters and how nothing is stagnant, there’s always something happening to keep you captivated.
What made it 4 stars for me was that some of the expectations and timing were a bit unrealistic considering all that happened across the story. But overall this book was beautifully written with the use of different languages and romance. I really was not expecting the twists that appeared and it left me feeling emotional.
One of the best birthday presents (same as release date) I’ve gotten for sure! Excited to read the next story about Bailey because I am even more curious now after reading this book.
I received an ARC (Advanced Readers Copy) in exchange for an honest review. These thoughts are entirely my own! Thank you to Laurea Matthews and Love Notes PR for choosing me to receive an early copy! (:
September 8, 2025
What to Expect:
Sports Romance
Friends to Lovers
Tortured Hero
Insta Love/Second Chance
No 3rd Act Breakup
Virgin MMC
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️.5
🌶️🌶️.5
This is the kind of love story that sticks with you long after you’ve finished the book. Marley and JJ are imperfect, with troubled pasts, and so very complicated. But like a moth to the flame, we are sucked right into it, because at the end of the day we love complicated.
We start with JJ Walker, a football player in college that can’t seem to get a girl he met years ago in France out of his mind. JJ is loyal, fiercely protected and weighed down by being the guy everyone in his family goes to with their families’ secrets. Out of the blue, Marley enters as his roommate’s new girlfriend which is a complete shock to JJ and cannot believe the girl he couldn’t get out of his head is right there in the flesh and back in his life – even if she’s currently dating his teammate. Prepare yourself for lingering glances, and undeniable connection, and all the angsty tension you can handle.
Marley Benson is patient, kind, and the one to always put others first before her own passions. She’s delicate, yet strong, creative and vulnerable through her music. The bond that Marley has with JJ is one that cannot be explained. Their love is electric and all consuming. This story is filled with struggles, and they really were handled with the utmost care.
This story is for readers that crave a slow burn, angsty, emotional romance that leaves you wanting more. I absolutely loved this book, thank you Laurea Matthew for writing this beautiful story, it was an absolute pleasure to read.
Sports Romance
Friends to Lovers
Tortured Hero
Insta Love/Second Chance
No 3rd Act Breakup
Virgin MMC
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️.5
🌶️🌶️.5
This is the kind of love story that sticks with you long after you’ve finished the book. Marley and JJ are imperfect, with troubled pasts, and so very complicated. But like a moth to the flame, we are sucked right into it, because at the end of the day we love complicated.
We start with JJ Walker, a football player in college that can’t seem to get a girl he met years ago in France out of his mind. JJ is loyal, fiercely protected and weighed down by being the guy everyone in his family goes to with their families’ secrets. Out of the blue, Marley enters as his roommate’s new girlfriend which is a complete shock to JJ and cannot believe the girl he couldn’t get out of his head is right there in the flesh and back in his life – even if she’s currently dating his teammate. Prepare yourself for lingering glances, and undeniable connection, and all the angsty tension you can handle.
Marley Benson is patient, kind, and the one to always put others first before her own passions. She’s delicate, yet strong, creative and vulnerable through her music. The bond that Marley has with JJ is one that cannot be explained. Their love is electric and all consuming. This story is filled with struggles, and they really were handled with the utmost care.
This story is for readers that crave a slow burn, angsty, emotional romance that leaves you wanting more. I absolutely loved this book, thank you Laurea Matthew for writing this beautiful story, it was an absolute pleasure to read.
August 27, 2025
that saying “not all those who wander are lost” reminds me a lot of marley & jj. they met in france, they wandered, and they hoped . . . for eight hundred and ninety two days (jj counted). because they hoped and they kept moving through their early adulthood, they were never lost. how could they be lost if the only paths in every timeline lead only to each other?
you wanna talk about yearning? look it up in a book lovers dictionary and alongside a select few other fictional men, you’ll find jj walker. his wandering was just manifestation. he writes to her, never knowing when they’ll ever see each other again, but also never questioning the “if” they ever see each other again. he knows and he goes.
marley is a stormy mix of loyal, caring, and headstrong. where jj writes letters, marley writes songs, her manifestation working in tandem with jj’s.
there’s no conceivable ending that disconnects one from the other. through immense grief, family pressure to do what is “right” (and who tf knows what that even means!), and difficult, courageous conversations about substance abuse, the two learn that they have choices, ones that their situations and their family make seem like long gone.
a sad, beautiful, tragic reminder that family isn’t always biological, but found family—who we actively choose to love every day—can be made of biological family if they’re willing to love who you are in every moment of time.
unhinged reilly time: ME WHEN I CRRRRYYYYYYYY 😭🥲😭😢 me when i CCCCCCRRRYYYYYYY
you wanna talk about yearning? look it up in a book lovers dictionary and alongside a select few other fictional men, you’ll find jj walker. his wandering was just manifestation. he writes to her, never knowing when they’ll ever see each other again, but also never questioning the “if” they ever see each other again. he knows and he goes.
marley is a stormy mix of loyal, caring, and headstrong. where jj writes letters, marley writes songs, her manifestation working in tandem with jj’s.
there’s no conceivable ending that disconnects one from the other. through immense grief, family pressure to do what is “right” (and who tf knows what that even means!), and difficult, courageous conversations about substance abuse, the two learn that they have choices, ones that their situations and their family make seem like long gone.
a sad, beautiful, tragic reminder that family isn’t always biological, but found family—who we actively choose to love every day—can be made of biological family if they’re willing to love who you are in every moment of time.
unhinged reilly time: ME WHEN I CRRRRYYYYYYYY 😭🥲😭😢 me when i CCCCCCRRRYYYYYYY
September 7, 2025
Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️/5
Spice: 🌶️🌶️/5
LAUREA, YOU RIPPED MY HEART OUT!!! 😭😭😭 I went through sooo many emotions. Tissues are an absolute must-have while reading. This is the best book yet! Please read the trigger warnings prior!
Before You is book 2 in the Reckless Love series. I highly recommend reading the series in chronological order. While the mc's of each book is different, the storyline continues throughout the books.
JJ and Marley are the sweetest. I wish nothing but endless happiness for these two. From the beginning, Marley is incredibly selfless, supportive, and empathetic. With JJ's help, she slowly learns how to stand up for what she wants. JJ has his own inner demons but his heart is always in the right place. He puts an immense amount of pressure on himself. He is very family-oriented and it broke my heart watching him struggle with his mental health. His unconditional love for Marley and his friendship with Asher allowed him to speak up and seek the help and support he needs. Marley and JJ overcame so many obstacles and after almost 3 years apart, finally found their way back to each other. The ending crushed my heart and absolutely destroyed me. Nevertheless, this was an incredible emotional rollercoaster and I will absolutely be continuing the series.
Laurea, you are too good at what you do! <3
"Fuck moving on. I'll wait forever for her to fall for me a second time."
"'Thank you for seeing me, and still loving me.' 'Loving you isn't a choice, JJ. It's part of who I am.'"
For fans of:
- sports romance
- slow burn
- right person, wrong time
- virgin mmc
- college romance
*Thank you to Love Notes PR and the author, Laurea Matthews, for an ARC. Opinions expressed are solely my own.
Spice: 🌶️🌶️/5
LAUREA, YOU RIPPED MY HEART OUT!!! 😭😭😭 I went through sooo many emotions. Tissues are an absolute must-have while reading. This is the best book yet! Please read the trigger warnings prior!
Before You is book 2 in the Reckless Love series. I highly recommend reading the series in chronological order. While the mc's of each book is different, the storyline continues throughout the books.
JJ and Marley are the sweetest. I wish nothing but endless happiness for these two. From the beginning, Marley is incredibly selfless, supportive, and empathetic. With JJ's help, she slowly learns how to stand up for what she wants. JJ has his own inner demons but his heart is always in the right place. He puts an immense amount of pressure on himself. He is very family-oriented and it broke my heart watching him struggle with his mental health. His unconditional love for Marley and his friendship with Asher allowed him to speak up and seek the help and support he needs. Marley and JJ overcame so many obstacles and after almost 3 years apart, finally found their way back to each other. The ending crushed my heart and absolutely destroyed me. Nevertheless, this was an incredible emotional rollercoaster and I will absolutely be continuing the series.
Laurea, you are too good at what you do! <3
"Fuck moving on. I'll wait forever for her to fall for me a second time."
"'Thank you for seeing me, and still loving me.' 'Loving you isn't a choice, JJ. It's part of who I am.'"
For fans of:
- sports romance
- slow burn
- right person, wrong time
- virgin mmc
- college romance
*Thank you to Love Notes PR and the author, Laurea Matthews, for an ARC. Opinions expressed are solely my own.
August 25, 2025
First off, the dedication will make anyone who can relate to it in the slightest way want to read this book. I was so excited to be an ARC reader for this book, I read Chasing After you for my first ARC read so im excited to be able to read the 2nd book as an ARC reader as well. The acknowledgments at the end were amazing and I’m so glad that it was written how it was. I usually do an overall review and then one with my reactions to certain parts but I’ve tried something different this time by doing just an overall review and it’s so hard not to write spoilers but here it is:
I absolutely loved JJ and Marley’s love story and the characters that they were. The respect he and love JJ has for Marley is the kind a girl can only dream of receiving in real life. The character development and the build up of the plot line is so amazing. Of course sometimes happily ever after stories do have tragedies in them and it broke my heart, but it helped JJ as a character in so many ways (this will make so much sense when you read it) and it was something no one wants but it’s need for the story.
The epilogue was just like the story heart warming because you see them (obviously), and then you see where Mirabelle and Henry’s relationship is at too. Then it takes opening a door to lead into the next story which I can’t wait to read.
It was an honor to be an ARC reader for book two of the Reckless Love Series and I hope to continue having the chance to for the rest of the series.
I absolutely loved JJ and Marley’s love story and the characters that they were. The respect he and love JJ has for Marley is the kind a girl can only dream of receiving in real life. The character development and the build up of the plot line is so amazing. Of course sometimes happily ever after stories do have tragedies in them and it broke my heart, but it helped JJ as a character in so many ways (this will make so much sense when you read it) and it was something no one wants but it’s need for the story.
The epilogue was just like the story heart warming because you see them (obviously), and then you see where Mirabelle and Henry’s relationship is at too. Then it takes opening a door to lead into the next story which I can’t wait to read.
It was an honor to be an ARC reader for book two of the Reckless Love Series and I hope to continue having the chance to for the rest of the series.
October 3, 2025
Listen, I have read my fair share of books and they have taken me on a rollercoaster of emotions. The last time I cried so hard was a book I was lucky enough to read as an arc reader a couple of months ago. This book though, it made my heart break. Not only is this story about love and two people reacquainting after two years, but it also talks about heavy topics. This book has a trigger warning list so you know ahead of time of what this book is about.
Marley and JJ meet in France and spend the day together. It was the perfect day between them and it felt like love at first sight. However, they only exchanged first names and the next day, went their separate ways. Fast forward, two years later, Marley decides to transfer to colleges and attend the same school as her boyfriend …. Who is also roommates with the one and only JJ.
The way you can literally feel the tension between these two and how they yearn for one another kept me at the edge of my seat. I was yelling in the background that they needed to be together bc what the heck 🤭🥹 however, apart from the romance aspect, it’s obvious that JJ was going through some heavy stuff and Laurea does a fantastic job on detailing what he is going through. And, sadly, hiding it from people bc JJ doesn’t want anyone knowing :/ this book really hits you so hard that you wish you can just hug JJ and chase the pain away.
Rating: 5/5
Steamy scenes: 🔥🔥🔥
Marley and JJ meet in France and spend the day together. It was the perfect day between them and it felt like love at first sight. However, they only exchanged first names and the next day, went their separate ways. Fast forward, two years later, Marley decides to transfer to colleges and attend the same school as her boyfriend …. Who is also roommates with the one and only JJ.
The way you can literally feel the tension between these two and how they yearn for one another kept me at the edge of my seat. I was yelling in the background that they needed to be together bc what the heck 🤭🥹 however, apart from the romance aspect, it’s obvious that JJ was going through some heavy stuff and Laurea does a fantastic job on detailing what he is going through. And, sadly, hiding it from people bc JJ doesn’t want anyone knowing :/ this book really hits you so hard that you wish you can just hug JJ and chase the pain away.
Rating: 5/5
Steamy scenes: 🔥🔥🔥
May 31, 2026
I almost skipped this one after my experience with book one.
I originally picked it up because I received book three as an ARC and wanted to understand Bailey's storyline before continuing the series. After the cliffhanger at the end of book one, I figured book two might fill in some gaps.
I'm so glad I didn't skip it.
While Bailey only makes brief appearances, JJ's story completely surprised me. I went in blind and wasn't expecting the emotional impact this book would have.
His struggles with feeling overlooked, carrying everyone else's burdens, and trying to keep the peace hit hard. As a middle child myself, I found a lot of his internal struggles relatable, which made his journey even more heartbreaking.
The writing felt stronger than in book one. The dialogue was still a little awkward at times, but the characters felt more mature and believable overall.
My biggest issue was that there was a lot going on, and some plot points (the letters & Asher) felt rushed or underdeveloped. There were a few moments that seemed like they should have carried more emotional weight than they ultimately did. Will there be a Bria story?? If not what was the point in bringing that Asher twist into this?
That said, the emotional core of JJ's story carried this book for me. His internal battles, self-justifications, and growth kept me invested from beginning to end.
A much stronger read than book one, and yes, it ends on another cliffhanger.
I originally picked it up because I received book three as an ARC and wanted to understand Bailey's storyline before continuing the series. After the cliffhanger at the end of book one, I figured book two might fill in some gaps.
I'm so glad I didn't skip it.
While Bailey only makes brief appearances, JJ's story completely surprised me. I went in blind and wasn't expecting the emotional impact this book would have.
His struggles with feeling overlooked, carrying everyone else's burdens, and trying to keep the peace hit hard. As a middle child myself, I found a lot of his internal struggles relatable, which made his journey even more heartbreaking.
The writing felt stronger than in book one. The dialogue was still a little awkward at times, but the characters felt more mature and believable overall.
My biggest issue was that there was a lot going on, and some plot points (the letters & Asher) felt rushed or underdeveloped. There were a few moments that seemed like they should have carried more emotional weight than they ultimately did. Will there be a Bria story?? If not what was the point in bringing that Asher twist into this?
That said, the emotional core of JJ's story carried this book for me. His internal battles, self-justifications, and growth kept me invested from beginning to end.
A much stronger read than book one, and yes, it ends on another cliffhanger.
August 17, 2025
Thank you to the author for providing me with an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
This book follows JJ Walker and Marley Benson as their lives collide again after years apart. JJ has been holding onto regret while Marley is working to find her independence away from her family’s expectations. When their paths cross, their story quickly takes off.
There were a lot of sweet details I really enjoyed — especially how genuine their connection felt. It didn’t come across as shallow or based on instant attraction, but instead had the heart of a second-chance romance. Those little moments between them gave the story warmth and made me root for their relationship.
That said, the pacing felt rushed to me. Their story moved forward so quickly that I didn’t always have the chance to sit with the emotions or feel the full weight of their reunion. I also wished there had been more time spent on some aspects of JJ’s journey and his life on the field.
However, the ending of this book made it worth the read for sure. It was an enjoyable read and Its absolutely perfect if you want something fast paced and swoon worthy to read.
Overall, this is a heartfelt college romance with genuine emotion at its core. If you enjoy second-chance love stories and emotional connections, this one is worth picking up.
Thank you so much to Laurea Matthews and LoveNotesPr for sending me this ARC copy!
This book follows JJ Walker and Marley Benson as their lives collide again after years apart. JJ has been holding onto regret while Marley is working to find her independence away from her family’s expectations. When their paths cross, their story quickly takes off.
There were a lot of sweet details I really enjoyed — especially how genuine their connection felt. It didn’t come across as shallow or based on instant attraction, but instead had the heart of a second-chance romance. Those little moments between them gave the story warmth and made me root for their relationship.
That said, the pacing felt rushed to me. Their story moved forward so quickly that I didn’t always have the chance to sit with the emotions or feel the full weight of their reunion. I also wished there had been more time spent on some aspects of JJ’s journey and his life on the field.
However, the ending of this book made it worth the read for sure. It was an enjoyable read and Its absolutely perfect if you want something fast paced and swoon worthy to read.
Overall, this is a heartfelt college romance with genuine emotion at its core. If you enjoy second-chance love stories and emotional connections, this one is worth picking up.
Thank you so much to Laurea Matthews and LoveNotesPr for sending me this ARC copy!
August 21, 2025
I was fortunate enough to receive an ARC of this book, so shoutout to author Laurea Matthews and LoveNote for that! I was completely captivated by Marley & JJ’s love story! I found both the main characters and their individual storylines and struggles to be extremely realistic and relatable, which is something that draws me into a book. I enjoyed the side characters and their storylines as well, which is something I don’t always get in books. Without spoiling anything specific, Chapters 41 and 42 were absolutely gut wrenching in the most realistic way. I found particularly JJ’s reaction to that event to be extremely well written and mirrored similar feelings I experienced in a similar situation.
I absolutely loved Book One, but I think this one was even better! The dynamic between JJ & Marley was heart warming and real and created such an enjoyable reading experience. They genuinely were each other’s perfect match, and I loved to see where they ended up as individuals and as a couple. My only “complaint” or criticism would be to move the content warnings to the front of the book, so that they are accessible without having to navigate to the end and risk spoiling something by clicking the wrong option on your device. Laurea Matthews has quickly become my favorite author in the sports romance genre!
I absolutely loved Book One, but I think this one was even better! The dynamic between JJ & Marley was heart warming and real and created such an enjoyable reading experience. They genuinely were each other’s perfect match, and I loved to see where they ended up as individuals and as a couple. My only “complaint” or criticism would be to move the content warnings to the front of the book, so that they are accessible without having to navigate to the end and risk spoiling something by clicking the wrong option on your device. Laurea Matthews has quickly become my favorite author in the sports romance genre!
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