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Time After Time
She waited in the quiet moments.
He heard her in every silence.
When astrophysicist ( charmingly nerdy) Ember Rousseau arrives at her family’s lavish New Year’s retreat in a luxury chalet in Chamonix, she’s expecting champagne toasts, cozy fires, and a well-earned break from academia.
What she’s not expecting is Dr. Ransom Marchand—renowned neurosurgeon, longtime family friend, and the man who shattered her heart five years ago by saying she was too immature for him.
Ransom is remembering how Ember—brilliant, warm, and generous—once made him feel, and it’s making it hard for him to look away from her.
Maybe bringing his glamorous friend-with-benefits to the Alps was a mistake?
As the snow falls and the clock ticks toward midnight and a New Year, old sparks ignite. In the magic of a winter wonderland, can Ransom and Ember rewrite their ending before the final fireworks fade?
Time After Time is A Modern Vintage Romance, bringing you all the feels of classic Mills & Boon novels with a modern, dual POV, steamy touch. It features your favorite
🎄 Second Chance
🎄 Age Gap (15 years)
🎄 Holiday
🎄 Other Woman Drama
🎄 Overheard
🎄 Brother’s Best Friend
🎄 Medical (he's a doctor)
🎄 STEM Heroine
🎄 No Cheating
🎄 Complete Standalone
He heard her in every silence.
When astrophysicist ( charmingly nerdy) Ember Rousseau arrives at her family’s lavish New Year’s retreat in a luxury chalet in Chamonix, she’s expecting champagne toasts, cozy fires, and a well-earned break from academia.
What she’s not expecting is Dr. Ransom Marchand—renowned neurosurgeon, longtime family friend, and the man who shattered her heart five years ago by saying she was too immature for him.
Ransom is remembering how Ember—brilliant, warm, and generous—once made him feel, and it’s making it hard for him to look away from her.
Maybe bringing his glamorous friend-with-benefits to the Alps was a mistake?
As the snow falls and the clock ticks toward midnight and a New Year, old sparks ignite. In the magic of a winter wonderland, can Ransom and Ember rewrite their ending before the final fireworks fade?
Time After Time is A Modern Vintage Romance, bringing you all the feels of classic Mills & Boon novels with a modern, dual POV, steamy touch. It features your favorite
🎄 Second Chance
🎄 Age Gap (15 years)
🎄 Holiday
🎄 Other Woman Drama
🎄 Overheard
🎄 Brother’s Best Friend
🎄 Medical (he's a doctor)
🎄 STEM Heroine
🎄 No Cheating
🎄 Complete Standalone
354 pages, Kindle Edition
Published November 17, 2025
1135 people are currently reading
207 people want to read
About the author
Maya Alden
52 books1,093 followersA top 20 Amazon Bestselling Author, Maya Alden pens angsty contemporary romances.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 249 reviews
November 22, 2025
So we have Ransom a 45 year old doctor, immature and emotionally broken, that had a year long relationship with Ember, a 30 year old astrophysicistm shy and introvert and way too mature from Ransom, 5 years ago that ended with Ransom asking for break up because she was too young. Well Ransom behaves not like a 45 or 25 year old guy but like a teenager. BUT as it is fiction we forgive him as he realises what he has missed and eventually he gives up his doctor position for a lesses position just to be with her.
Also I loved loved loved Margot and Jean!!! I loved their banter and their attitude! And all the things that Margot arranged for Christmas and New Year's Eve? OMG I wish I was there! Especially for the Poirot night!
Also I loved loved loved Margot and Jean!!! I loved their banter and their attitude! And all the things that Margot arranged for Christmas and New Year's Eve? OMG I wish I was there! Especially for the Poirot night!
November 18, 2025
Hero is an idiot. He's a kindergartner in the mean stakes and doesn't even compare to the H in Best Served Cold. Sadly stupidity can still hurt.
He dumps the 15v year younger heroine because she's so young and immature. Goes on to date a social x-ray whose worst sin is being unlikeable. You've got Trouble in River City when you empathize with the OW. He invites her for a two week vacation with a group that are like family to him then he can't understand that she thought they had something more then friends with benefits. He dumps her, has someone else deal with getting her out of town, then tells the h's family how much he loves her. I was done then. A real alpha! Maybe the h didn't them to know she slept with you, that you dumped her? Just maybe you should have spoken to her.
Best part of the book were the details about Chamonix, France. Here's some pretty picture.
He dumps the 15v year younger heroine because she's so young and immature. Goes on to date a social x-ray whose worst sin is being unlikeable. You've got Trouble in River City when you empathize with the OW. He invites her for a two week vacation with a group that are like family to him then he can't understand that she thought they had something more then friends with benefits. He dumps her, has someone else deal with getting her out of town, then tells the h's family how much he loves her. I was done then. A real alpha! Maybe the h didn't them to know she slept with you, that you dumped her? Just maybe you should have spoken to her.
Best part of the book were the details about Chamonix, France. Here's some pretty picture.
Read
December 3, 2025DNF
They dated for a year 5 years ago. He's close to some of her family so joins them on a holiday and takes a friend's with benefits with him... sounds like an excellent idea esp when the other woman tells everyone he's soon to propose.
He broke things off because of the age gap but prefers the shallow woman he's now with, except he doesn't, then he does after all the heroine is too young for him but he loves her, then he doesn't, whiplash yet?
It's okay though because his 'soon to be fiance' is sharing his bed but nothing is happening. It's been 3 days what a guy.
Really not my thing.
Both have been with others in separation but hes ruined her for all other men.... sigh.
He was divorced when he was with heroine originally so was right off commitment and marriage.
At 40%ish the other woman gets too much and he sends her away and decides he's loved the heroine all along and wants to show her.
They dated for a year 5 years ago. He's close to some of her family so joins them on a holiday and takes a friend's with benefits with him... sounds like an excellent idea esp when the other woman tells everyone he's soon to propose.
He broke things off because of the age gap but prefers the shallow woman he's now with, except he doesn't, then he does after all the heroine is too young for him but he loves her, then he doesn't, whiplash yet?
It's okay though because his 'soon to be fiance' is sharing his bed but nothing is happening. It's been 3 days what a guy.
Really not my thing.
Both have been with others in separation but hes ruined her for all other men.... sigh.
He was divorced when he was with heroine originally so was right off commitment and marriage.
At 40%ish the other woman gets too much and he sends her away and decides he's loved the heroine all along and wants to show her.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
December 28, 2025
Can anyone write a book that doesn’t nosedive after 50%…. I think it would be better to just chop books like this off and end them at 50 % when they’re still interesting. I read half and got bored. Skimmed to the end. 40 ish famous surgeon and 20 something brainiac scientist. Rich family friends. They had a secret affair 5 years ago- guessing. The families spend vacations together. Cue up the Swiss Christmas vacation where the H brings along his fk buddy bimbo blonde- of course he did. All the romantic Christmas markets in the world couldn’t save this mediocre book.
November 19, 2025
This one is a lot better than other recent MA books. For example, she doesn’t overhear the H having sex with the OW. That’s a win. He doesn’t attempt to make her jealous by letting her think that his female cousin is his girlfriend. Her family doesn’t completely abandon her and immediately side with the H. Another good thing. His immaturity and character flaws are called out by others and he seems to listen to it this.
Ultimately, this is a story about a man who at almost half a century finally grows up and realizes that he won’t end up in a bad marriage like his first because he’s a different person and the h is not his ex-wife. Congratulations, buddy.
At the end of the book it seems like he’s learned his lesson and he convinces the h to give him another chance. He’s still an idiot, but the h loves him and it seems highly unlikely that he’ll disappoint her romantically in the future.
I agree with vintage that the OW got a raw deal. She has been brought to spend the holidays with the H, whom she has been seeing several times a week for a while. Even if he claims he never gave her any promises, she can be forgiven for reading the room incorrectly. When they get there, he treats her with less and less consideration and very obviously turns his attention to another woman. He doesn’t seem to care that her interactions with the rest of the people are very uncomfortable and it’s clear that they are starting to align against her. Once they split up, he has someone else get her out of town in the shabbiest way possible. She didn’t deserve this just because she was superficial and sometimes petty.
I’m giving it 3 1/2 stars for readability.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 31, 2025
As always great writing and development of the location.
I loved the family and their interactions. I did not like the H much but in the end I believed he loved her and she definitely was in love with him so happy she got her HEA.
I did not like that they were separated for 5 years and he was with different women. He was in love with the h but broke up with her because in his mind their age gap would not work long term.
I was glad she had been with at least one other guy but would have liked it if she had a good relationship instead of a guy who cheated. I did not like the H’s character he is 45 years old supposed to be super smart but he resorted to HS games and brought OW to Xmas with the h and her family in case she did come. He used the OW who yes was not nice but him doing that says more about him than her. He also was nasty to h before he pulled his head out of his ass talking to her about how she spoke to OW.
Then the brutal overheard scene which the OW knew h was there and he flipped breaks off their situation but the OW was 100% right she did not tell him what to say about the h. That was all him. His excuse to the h on why was lame. She forgave him way too quickly. They also went bare even though he had prior to the trip been with OW condoms are not 100% safe.
I did love the h. So again I was happy for her. He did do a grand gesture and went all in. I might have liked him better if it had not taken him 5 years to realize he loved the h.
I loved the family and their interactions. I did not like the H much but in the end I believed he loved her and she definitely was in love with him so happy she got her HEA.
I did not like that they were separated for 5 years and he was with different women. He was in love with the h but broke up with her because in his mind their age gap would not work long term.
I was glad she had been with at least one other guy but would have liked it if she had a good relationship instead of a guy who cheated. I did not like the H’s character he is 45 years old supposed to be super smart but he resorted to HS games and brought OW to Xmas with the h and her family in case she did come. He used the OW who yes was not nice but him doing that says more about him than her. He also was nasty to h before he pulled his head out of his ass talking to her about how she spoke to OW.
Then the brutal overheard scene which the OW knew h was there and he flipped breaks off their situation but the OW was 100% right she did not tell him what to say about the h. That was all him. His excuse to the h on why was lame. She forgave him way too quickly. They also went bare even though he had prior to the trip been with OW condoms are not 100% safe.
I did love the h. So again I was happy for her. He did do a grand gesture and went all in. I might have liked him better if it had not taken him 5 years to realize he loved the h.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
November 17, 2025
I was hoping for more
I really wish all these main characters didn't have to shoulder the emotional load of making up for the guys' screw-ups. They never do anything but whine about getting their feelings hurt and blubber apologies for two pages, then the females say, "Oh you're so dreamy." Cue body betrayal, and everything's magically better with sex.
I really wish all these main characters didn't have to shoulder the emotional load of making up for the guys' screw-ups. They never do anything but whine about getting their feelings hurt and blubber apologies for two pages, then the females say, "Oh you're so dreamy." Cue body betrayal, and everything's magically better with sex.
November 18, 2025
Same old same old. Everyone's rich, educated, and stuffy, but our herione of course didn't get the good looks from her super model mother. The H is 15 year's older and bff's with her brother. They have a year together without anyone knowing. He dumps her because she's too young etc. They meet back up 5 years later at her family's annual Switzerland Christmas trip. He shows with a mean ow. Blonde and blue eyed of course 🙄. He says some awful things about our perfect h. He kicks ow out and then starts his grovel Maya Alden style. Completely formulaic and predicable. Though her family was funny in parts. First 50% was good then I skimmed. I ignored her political mumbojumbo etc. Take that out and it was decent enough. I was more interested in her December release and made a mistake thinking this was it. That book seems more up my alley with marriage in trouble with cheating with a kiss with ow.
November 18, 2025
Sometimes the greatest gift the universe can give you is a second chance to right a wrong, all you have to do is take it.
Ransom is Ember’s brother best friend and as such a member of her family. Five years ago, they entered into secret relationship that lasted a year. Ransom thinking he was doing the right thing breaks up with Ember. His reasoning their age difference he is forty she is twenty five, she is too immature for him, she is not his equal, he has been where she is she needs to experience life, she was not really his type. Em does the only thing she can she moves away and puts up walls between them.
The universe in all its infinite wisdom does not agree with Ransom decision and conspires to bring the two of them together again the week before Christmas at her parents’ home. When Ransom hears her family talking about her past boyfriend and the fact that she wants a baby he almost goes supernova. With his reasons for wanting to breakup crumbling he desperately clings to his lifeline Calypso the friend he bought with him to prove he has moved on.
Calypso sensing who Ransom’s north star really is starts to make comic waves. Not willing to accept her place in this little cosmos she confronts Ransom and in trying to deflect her Ransom rains down a metor shower and unfortunately Ember takes a few direct hits. She is devastated by what she hears. Ransom is also devastated to realise how much he hurt her with his words.
Ransom the renowned neurosurgeon finally locates his own brain and realises just what he has so callously thrown away. Suddenly faced with the realisation that he may have just pushed Ember out of his orbit for good he starts to form a plan. All he now needs to do is convince Ember that together they can create their own universe Big Bang and all.
You are going to want to throttle Ransom at times and other times you are going to be asking yourself how the hell can some this smart be as dense as a black hole. Ember is a character that you are going to fall in love with. Even with her heart breaking she is grace personified. Her family are going to have you cackling.
I don’t know how Maya Alden does it but damn if she doesn’t each and every time. Head off to Amazon now and preorder this book now you are not going to want to miss out on reading it.
Ransom is Ember’s brother best friend and as such a member of her family. Five years ago, they entered into secret relationship that lasted a year. Ransom thinking he was doing the right thing breaks up with Ember. His reasoning their age difference he is forty she is twenty five, she is too immature for him, she is not his equal, he has been where she is she needs to experience life, she was not really his type. Em does the only thing she can she moves away and puts up walls between them.
The universe in all its infinite wisdom does not agree with Ransom decision and conspires to bring the two of them together again the week before Christmas at her parents’ home. When Ransom hears her family talking about her past boyfriend and the fact that she wants a baby he almost goes supernova. With his reasons for wanting to breakup crumbling he desperately clings to his lifeline Calypso the friend he bought with him to prove he has moved on.
Calypso sensing who Ransom’s north star really is starts to make comic waves. Not willing to accept her place in this little cosmos she confronts Ransom and in trying to deflect her Ransom rains down a metor shower and unfortunately Ember takes a few direct hits. She is devastated by what she hears. Ransom is also devastated to realise how much he hurt her with his words.
Ransom the renowned neurosurgeon finally locates his own brain and realises just what he has so callously thrown away. Suddenly faced with the realisation that he may have just pushed Ember out of his orbit for good he starts to form a plan. All he now needs to do is convince Ember that together they can create their own universe Big Bang and all.
You are going to want to throttle Ransom at times and other times you are going to be asking yourself how the hell can some this smart be as dense as a black hole. Ember is a character that you are going to fall in love with. Even with her heart breaking she is grace personified. Her family are going to have you cackling.
I don’t know how Maya Alden does it but damn if she doesn’t each and every time. Head off to Amazon now and preorder this book now you are not going to want to miss out on reading it.
November 17, 2025
Need A Story Where An MMC In His 40s Doesn't Need To Change, Just Needs To Be Told To Change, Then Somehow Doing The Same Thing Wins The Vaccuous FMC Around?
The Daddy Dick Mes are here to normalise Age Gaps again, which is a traumatising for the woman involved, as if she smoked heavily.
Gawd I wish her family had taught her her worth.
And a family that saw him mistreat Calypso on purpose too.
And imagine a family normalising a man with degraded sperm, predating on her in the Era of Epstein? Enforcers of the Epstein Era.
Even her nerdiness was empty. Just stars. No motivations, just stars.
As someone who likes astrophysics, I was soundly disappointed by her shallow, stereotypical nerdiness.
Yet Again Maya's MMC Is An Emotionally And Socially Abusive Cunt And Never Has To Learn Patience Or Forfeiting Control Of Their Relationship, She Immediately Submits
Taylor AI Swift?
Really? How behind are you? She's basically considered aligned with Trumpler now, the guy murdering people.
Fuck normies like.
Yet again hes a shallow, misogynistic cunt who brings women he isn't emotionally open with, to family events and then pretends to not know why people think hes serious.
As always, shes a fucking doormat whose mother encourages her to go for a rat scumbag cunt who emotionally and socially abuses her.
But of course, Maya uses words to pretend hes not a fake cunt but he is and Tanya's a bitch for giving him hints.
I await the day when hes forced to give up and only then, can she actually process what hes done.
But as always, Maya hides the Unseen, Unloved and utterly Unfucked women think Love Bombing Anecdotes is a substitute for a lifelong demonstration that you aren't a narcissistic windbag.
I want to see a man work for it, and the way a man works for it, is sitting there and taking the consequences, and then rebuilding trust.
Instead, he gets to treat her like an object to win, and says so to the audience several times.
Being "won back" is fucking stunted.
But as always, man throws money at problem.
Sorry, ski-ing is so unrelateable, I hate people who ruin areas for resorts, I think they are toxic.
This is like when Ana Steel flies in that vaccuous plane.
Imagine he had depth imagine he could force a proximity.
Gawd these people are so communally abusive.
AND the he moves without telling her.
How stunted.
Life choices without talking to her.
Wow, you women that like that shit, imagine he was mature about it.
Fuck I hate him, he doesn't change.
So bored of the Cult of Fragilitys obsession with being told they are small and tight during sex.
Is this hot?
Feels like hes fucking an infant.
Like what the fuck?
"I take a sip of wine, its softened since its opened."
Save me from boring people.
Also, age gaps suck.
Imagine bonding with someone fifteen years younger than you.
Don't take Tylenol when Pregnant Ember, you got the old man sperm ready to increase risks of ADHD by 50%.
I really hate communal dynamics that normalise power dynamics.
I really am glad when an older man is shunned from out community for predating on small, young, tight pussies with his crusted scrotum.
Her sex scenes infantilised her so much.
Ugh hes so unattractive.
But Tanya needs headbutt.
He gets called out on using Calypso as a shield but then nobody says anything when he uses kids to manipulate her?
Oh fuck off to the moon you degraded spwrm cunt.
The Daddy Dick Mes are here to normalise Age Gaps again, which is a traumatising for the woman involved, as if she smoked heavily.
Gawd I wish her family had taught her her worth.
And a family that saw him mistreat Calypso on purpose too.
And imagine a family normalising a man with degraded sperm, predating on her in the Era of Epstein? Enforcers of the Epstein Era.
Even her nerdiness was empty. Just stars. No motivations, just stars.
As someone who likes astrophysics, I was soundly disappointed by her shallow, stereotypical nerdiness.
Yet Again Maya's MMC Is An Emotionally And Socially Abusive Cunt And Never Has To Learn Patience Or Forfeiting Control Of Their Relationship, She Immediately Submits
Taylor AI Swift?
Really? How behind are you? She's basically considered aligned with Trumpler now, the guy murdering people.
Fuck normies like.
Yet again hes a shallow, misogynistic cunt who brings women he isn't emotionally open with, to family events and then pretends to not know why people think hes serious.
As always, shes a fucking doormat whose mother encourages her to go for a rat scumbag cunt who emotionally and socially abuses her.
But of course, Maya uses words to pretend hes not a fake cunt but he is and Tanya's a bitch for giving him hints.
I await the day when hes forced to give up and only then, can she actually process what hes done.
But as always, Maya hides the Unseen, Unloved and utterly Unfucked women think Love Bombing Anecdotes is a substitute for a lifelong demonstration that you aren't a narcissistic windbag.
I want to see a man work for it, and the way a man works for it, is sitting there and taking the consequences, and then rebuilding trust.
Instead, he gets to treat her like an object to win, and says so to the audience several times.
Being "won back" is fucking stunted.
But as always, man throws money at problem.
Sorry, ski-ing is so unrelateable, I hate people who ruin areas for resorts, I think they are toxic.
This is like when Ana Steel flies in that vaccuous plane.
Imagine he had depth imagine he could force a proximity.
Gawd these people are so communally abusive.
AND the he moves without telling her.
How stunted.
Life choices without talking to her.
Wow, you women that like that shit, imagine he was mature about it.
Fuck I hate him, he doesn't change.
So bored of the Cult of Fragilitys obsession with being told they are small and tight during sex.
Is this hot?
Feels like hes fucking an infant.
Like what the fuck?
"I take a sip of wine, its softened since its opened."
Save me from boring people.
Also, age gaps suck.
Imagine bonding with someone fifteen years younger than you.
Don't take Tylenol when Pregnant Ember, you got the old man sperm ready to increase risks of ADHD by 50%.
I really hate communal dynamics that normalise power dynamics.
I really am glad when an older man is shunned from out community for predating on small, young, tight pussies with his crusted scrotum.
Her sex scenes infantilised her so much.
Ugh hes so unattractive.
But Tanya needs headbutt.
He gets called out on using Calypso as a shield but then nobody says anything when he uses kids to manipulate her?
Oh fuck off to the moon you degraded spwrm cunt.
November 18, 2025
Oh boy, I'm literally lost for words ........
DNF @72%
DNF @72%
Read
November 22, 2025Wow, this did not work for me.
He’s 45, supposedly a brilliant neurosurgeon and dumb as a rock. Everything about him frustrated and annoyed me, from the obnoxious date for the holidays to his 180 when he decides he wants her back after 5 years and after keeping their previous relationship secret, he feels the need to over share with everyone without discussing anything with her.
Yeah, this was a no.
He’s 45, supposedly a brilliant neurosurgeon and dumb as a rock. Everything about him frustrated and annoyed me, from the obnoxious date for the holidays to his 180 when he decides he wants her back after 5 years and after keeping their previous relationship secret, he feels the need to over share with everyone without discussing anything with her.
Yeah, this was a no.
November 18, 2025
No
I waited for this book to come out. Counting down the days. It definitely was not worth waiting for, the book was so long and boring. Maya Alden are usually good, some very good and a very few not so good, but this book should be a hard pass! Shirley
I waited for this book to come out. Counting down the days. It definitely was not worth waiting for, the book was so long and boring. Maya Alden are usually good, some very good and a very few not so good, but this book should be a hard pass! Shirley
November 17, 2025
dnf @ 67%
November 19, 2025
It wasn’t horrible it wasn’t great either.
Dare I say it was so detail packed it got boring to the point I stopped halfway through, read another book then came back and skimmed to the end. I just struggle with a romance and HEA that had the first 50% oof the book with the Hero with the ow. Then I was waiting for the overheard gut punch and it was very tame, I wondered what the issue was. Her didn’t really say anything that her mother and Aunt hadn’t alluded to. It’s another case rinse and repeat just in a another country and this time with a supportive family behind her
Dare I say it was so detail packed it got boring to the point I stopped halfway through, read another book then came back and skimmed to the end. I just struggle with a romance and HEA that had the first 50% oof the book with the Hero with the ow. Then I was waiting for the overheard gut punch and it was very tame, I wondered what the issue was. Her didn’t really say anything that her mother and Aunt hadn’t alluded to. It’s another case rinse and repeat just in a another country and this time with a supportive family behind her
November 19, 2025
My rating: 4 stars
What I loved: I loved how Ransom(H) finally got his head out his butt and made the ow leave. I especially loved how Ember’s(h) brother punched Ransom when he told her family.
What I didn’t like: I want to know what happened with the ow after she left. I love ow drama and I wanted more.
***Major Spoilers/ Details/Triggers/Tropes: Age gap, dated secretly in the past, ow drama, overheard the H saying hurtful things about the h, second chance. In the past the H and h dated 5 years ago for a year without telling anyone. H broke up with h because he felt she was too young for him. He didn’t think she would fit into his life. To him the h was unsophisticated, weird and too immature. In the present the h’s parent host their annual Christmas gathering and the H who is a close family friend is also invited. H brings ow. H and ow are friends with benefits but the ow wants more. Ow tells the h’s mom that she just knows the H will propose to her soon. Ow seeing how the H can’t stop looking at the h becomes jealous and starts saying means things to the h. Ow tells h that the h means nothing to the H. h confronts the H about him telling the ow about them. Later, H asks the ow about it and the h overhears the H tell the ow that he doesn’t love the h. The reason they broke up was because of her age. Ow calls the h dull and mousy and the H agrees. When h drops the bottle of pills, the H realizes that she heard everything. H upset because he knows that he didn’t mean anything he said to the ow. H realizes he is still in love with the h and he wants her back. H makes the ow leave and tells the h’s family about their relationship 5 years ago. He tells them he wants the h and that he loves her. h’s family let him have it. H goes about fixing his mistake and wins the h back. H tells the h that he was afraid in the past to fall in love. HEA with the H moving in with the h and him proposing in front of her family.
Final thoughts: I enjoyed reading Ransom and Ember’s story. It’s nice when the heroine’s family is close and are there for each other. Now I need to go look to see if I missed any of the siblings books.
What I loved: I loved how Ransom(H) finally got his head out his butt and made the ow leave. I especially loved how Ember’s(h) brother punched Ransom when he told her family.
What I didn’t like: I want to know what happened with the ow after she left. I love ow drama and I wanted more.
***Major Spoilers/ Details/Triggers/Tropes: Age gap, dated secretly in the past, ow drama, overheard the H saying hurtful things about the h, second chance. In the past the H and h dated 5 years ago for a year without telling anyone. H broke up with h because he felt she was too young for him. He didn’t think she would fit into his life. To him the h was unsophisticated, weird and too immature. In the present the h’s parent host their annual Christmas gathering and the H who is a close family friend is also invited. H brings ow. H and ow are friends with benefits but the ow wants more. Ow tells the h’s mom that she just knows the H will propose to her soon. Ow seeing how the H can’t stop looking at the h becomes jealous and starts saying means things to the h. Ow tells h that the h means nothing to the H. h confronts the H about him telling the ow about them. Later, H asks the ow about it and the h overhears the H tell the ow that he doesn’t love the h. The reason they broke up was because of her age. Ow calls the h dull and mousy and the H agrees. When h drops the bottle of pills, the H realizes that she heard everything. H upset because he knows that he didn’t mean anything he said to the ow. H realizes he is still in love with the h and he wants her back. H makes the ow leave and tells the h’s family about their relationship 5 years ago. He tells them he wants the h and that he loves her. h’s family let him have it. H goes about fixing his mistake and wins the h back. H tells the h that he was afraid in the past to fall in love. HEA with the H moving in with the h and him proposing in front of her family.
Final thoughts: I enjoyed reading Ransom and Ember’s story. It’s nice when the heroine’s family is close and are there for each other. Now I need to go look to see if I missed any of the siblings books.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
December 22, 2025
Ok I’m officially obsessed w this author!!! Are all of her books very toxic and messy? YES. If you don’t like OTT drama and angst, then don’t read it.
Tb I’ve gotten so bored with most romance novels these days, so this drama is soooo yummy! I am devouring these… they are short and have no fluff. Just lots of angst and are addictive.
Ngl I’ve read like 3 of her books a day for the last few days 🤣. Sooo easy and quick !
BUT BE WARNED- they are toxic!! The endings are happy for me, but I can see how some people would be pissed w her MMCs. In the real world, I’d never forgive these MMCs but getting their POVs in this FICTIONAL story is good enough for me
Tb I’ve gotten so bored with most romance novels these days, so this drama is soooo yummy! I am devouring these… they are short and have no fluff. Just lots of angst and are addictive.
Ngl I’ve read like 3 of her books a day for the last few days 🤣. Sooo easy and quick !
BUT BE WARNED- they are toxic!! The endings are happy for me, but I can see how some people would be pissed w her MMCs. In the real world, I’d never forgive these MMCs but getting their POVs in this FICTIONAL story is good enough for me
November 26, 2025
Another Good Read
An age-gap second chance romance. Lots of hi jinx from the secondary characters. Lots drama, steam and funny moments.
Both main characters were likeable and you root for them as they journey their to their HEA.
An age-gap second chance romance. Lots of hi jinx from the secondary characters. Lots drama, steam and funny moments.
Both main characters were likeable and you root for them as they journey their to their HEA.
November 17, 2025
Loved this book! It got me ready for the holidays! All the talk about the snow, all that yummy wine made me wish I was a part of Ember’s fam and living it up with them lol!
The overheard scene was really good too! I loved how Ransom showed how much he loved her by actually uprooting his life! The ending was so sweet too!
Great read! Recommend!!
The overheard scene was really good too! I loved how Ransom showed how much he loved her by actually uprooting his life! The ending was so sweet too!
Great read! Recommend!!
November 17, 2025
Guys, this might be my favorite Maya Alden book this year. Seriously, the setting, the chemistry, the amazing family, the self centered OW, and the beautiful Christmas time frame all culminated to create such a fantastic story. The emotional toll this book took on me was real lol. Ember, our FMC, has my heart. She took Ransom’s breakup with class even though it broke her heart and has been avoiding him and maintaining her distance ever since. Then Ransom shows up to family Christmas (him being a very close family friend) with his F-Buddy, Calypso. I was so ready to strangle him and obviously this is a tiny dagger in Ember’s heart, but she knows she has no hold on him and he’s moving on so what can she do?
The OW drama was hard to read at times, because Ember is smart and has quiet strengths, but she’s still a scholar and she’s up against Calypso, a fashion editor that’s constantly cutting her down in passive aggressive ways. It was written so well, the emotions it evoked in me… I wanted to hug Ember so bad and all of Calypso’s snide little remarks felt like death by a thousand cuts. At one point, Ransom actually wants Ember to *try harder* to help her fit in to the fold! I was thinking, the audacity of this man…I’d push him off the slopes lol. See if his “ski champion” girlfriend can save him lol. You’ll get that joke once you read the Time After Time.
Ember’s family, especially her siblings- Freja and Aksel are fiercely protective and constantly have her back. The siblings don’t let Calypso cut their sister down and Ember calmly shuts down her bs a time or time when she’s being disparaging towards them as well. Honestly that is all that woman does is put others down to make herself feel more confident. Ransom is having second thoughts about bringing Calypso from nearly the beginning, but only internally, and those thoughts increase the more she strung out she gets. Ransom and Calypso are very very casual, but bringing your F-buddy to a family Christmas does send entirely the wrong message, even if he’s selfishly doing as a barrier to keep himself from giving in to his feelings for Ember.
The family Christmas traditions were so fun and I want to be adopted by the Rousseau’s immediately! The perfect warm family that loves deeply and embraces each individual being exactly who they are, plus the Christmas setting in Chamonix, France was so vividly described that I could feel the snowflakes tingling my skin. Honestly, this whole story felt like a warm hug, but with some prickly hitchhikers that need to be pried off and cast in to the lovely snow.
After Ransom messes up EVEN worse, can he show Ember that she was ever the only one for him? On the beautiful slopes of Chamonix at Christmas, he only has five days to prove it… I was satisfied with his turnaround and his grovel. His actions show that he knows Ember, that he values her, and I liked that he was very open about his feelings once he realizes he may have lost the only woman he’s ever truly loved.
Be prepared to cry, because I definitely did. You’ll be mad, you’ll cry, you’ll absolutely laugh with her family and bask in their holiday traditions (I’m definitely stealing some for myself) and then fall in love with Ransom. It was such a perfect read! I went back immediately and read it again. That’s how much I loved it. Chest clutching my kindle in happiness! Thanks Maya for another awesome read!
The OW drama was hard to read at times, because Ember is smart and has quiet strengths, but she’s still a scholar and she’s up against Calypso, a fashion editor that’s constantly cutting her down in passive aggressive ways. It was written so well, the emotions it evoked in me… I wanted to hug Ember so bad and all of Calypso’s snide little remarks felt like death by a thousand cuts. At one point, Ransom actually wants Ember to *try harder* to help her fit in to the fold! I was thinking, the audacity of this man…I’d push him off the slopes lol. See if his “ski champion” girlfriend can save him lol. You’ll get that joke once you read the Time After Time.
Ember’s family, especially her siblings- Freja and Aksel are fiercely protective and constantly have her back. The siblings don’t let Calypso cut their sister down and Ember calmly shuts down her bs a time or time when she’s being disparaging towards them as well. Honestly that is all that woman does is put others down to make herself feel more confident. Ransom is having second thoughts about bringing Calypso from nearly the beginning, but only internally, and those thoughts increase the more she strung out she gets. Ransom and Calypso are very very casual, but bringing your F-buddy to a family Christmas does send entirely the wrong message, even if he’s selfishly doing as a barrier to keep himself from giving in to his feelings for Ember.
The family Christmas traditions were so fun and I want to be adopted by the Rousseau’s immediately! The perfect warm family that loves deeply and embraces each individual being exactly who they are, plus the Christmas setting in Chamonix, France was so vividly described that I could feel the snowflakes tingling my skin. Honestly, this whole story felt like a warm hug, but with some prickly hitchhikers that need to be pried off and cast in to the lovely snow.
After Ransom messes up EVEN worse, can he show Ember that she was ever the only one for him? On the beautiful slopes of Chamonix at Christmas, he only has five days to prove it… I was satisfied with his turnaround and his grovel. His actions show that he knows Ember, that he values her, and I liked that he was very open about his feelings once he realizes he may have lost the only woman he’s ever truly loved.
Be prepared to cry, because I definitely did. You’ll be mad, you’ll cry, you’ll absolutely laugh with her family and bask in their holiday traditions (I’m definitely stealing some for myself) and then fall in love with Ransom. It was such a perfect read! I went back immediately and read it again. That’s how much I loved it. Chest clutching my kindle in happiness! Thanks Maya for another awesome read!
August 29, 2025
Ember and Ransom were lovers but he left her because of their age difference (15 years) and his residual bad feelings from his first marriage. Ember is devastated. Five years later they are celebrating Christmas with her family (Ember’s brother is Ransom’ best friend.), and he brings a date. She is devastated again, especially since his date, Calypso is not nice (insert b#$&h). It doesn’t help that Ember is a nerdy introvert and just avoids being around the couple as much as possible. Ember does have a wonderful supportive family who understand her needs. She is especially close to her siblings who always have her back. The story revolves around Ember and Ransom finding out if they should be together again.
Overall, this is a great romance. I found the first 3rd of the book a bit slow. Ransom tells himself one way that he feels about Ember but still acts like Calypso is his love when around others in the party. He can’t seem to nail down his feelings. Ember is full of angst, heartache, and anxiety about the whole Ransom/Calypso situation and those 2 situations are the main talking point of that part of the book. BUT, when Ransom realizes how he feels, the story talks a different tone and is much more enjoyable to read. I’m just not into angst but if you are, you’ll love this book.
In many ways Ember is a strong female role model professionally-astrophysicist, and really has some great qualities personally, too, very likable as a character. She always acts with grace even when Ransom and Calypso are not so kind.
Ransom is real romantic once he gets his head straight. And his inner dialogue is the wish of every woman from her lover. His insights into his feelings and how he sees Ember warm the heart.
Again, this is a great read and part of Alden’s A Modern Vintage Romance series which are similar to the classic Mills & Boon novels. You do not have to read the other books to enjoy this one.
Overall, this is a great romance. I found the first 3rd of the book a bit slow. Ransom tells himself one way that he feels about Ember but still acts like Calypso is his love when around others in the party. He can’t seem to nail down his feelings. Ember is full of angst, heartache, and anxiety about the whole Ransom/Calypso situation and those 2 situations are the main talking point of that part of the book. BUT, when Ransom realizes how he feels, the story talks a different tone and is much more enjoyable to read. I’m just not into angst but if you are, you’ll love this book.
In many ways Ember is a strong female role model professionally-astrophysicist, and really has some great qualities personally, too, very likable as a character. She always acts with grace even when Ransom and Calypso are not so kind.
Ransom is real romantic once he gets his head straight. And his inner dialogue is the wish of every woman from her lover. His insights into his feelings and how he sees Ember warm the heart.
Again, this is a great read and part of Alden’s A Modern Vintage Romance series which are similar to the classic Mills & Boon novels. You do not have to read the other books to enjoy this one.
August 27, 2025
I loved Ember and her family. We love a supportive family. Wasn’t the biggest fan of the Male lead, his 360 was way to sudden but ember is easy to live with clear boundaries. This was a good read. Maya is fantastic at giving us characters who are loveable
August 26, 2025
❄️ This is a Holiday age gap Romance with lots of great Scenery that makes you wish you were there! ⛷️
Ransom and Ember were in Love 5 years ago but he thought he needed a more Mature woman ( he’s 15 years older ) so he broke her heart when he left her.
now Ember’s on Vacation with her Family when Ransom shows up with his girlfriend, he did not know she would be there, but soon knows he is not over her! ☃️
❄️ at first I didn’t like Ransom in the way he treated Ember, but I felt like He did this so no one would know how he really felt about her! her brother is his best friend and he doesn’t want to cause a rift in her family, his Girlfriend soon realizes he has feelings for Ember and treats her horribly!
but Ransom can’t stay away from her and wants to ask Ember for a second chance, but she overhears sonething shes not meant to and believes he doesn’t care for her, so there insues alot of groveling on Ransoms part! he does break it off with girlfriend and sends her packing! he also made it plain to her he only invited her there as a friend! ☃️
❄️ Ransom follows Ember back home and pulls out all the stops to win her back! I did wonder how they would work out with their jobs so far apart but he Showed her how much he truly loved her with what he did!
the scenery and descriptions are truly fantastic in this book! I felt Ransom did everything right the second time around and he truly regretted what happened before. and I was so Happy they got their HEA! please give this book a chance as it’s a great Holiday Read! available on November 17th. ☃️
❄️ I received this book as an Arc and this is my own Opinion.
Ransom and Ember were in Love 5 years ago but he thought he needed a more Mature woman ( he’s 15 years older ) so he broke her heart when he left her.
now Ember’s on Vacation with her Family when Ransom shows up with his girlfriend, he did not know she would be there, but soon knows he is not over her! ☃️
❄️ at first I didn’t like Ransom in the way he treated Ember, but I felt like He did this so no one would know how he really felt about her! her brother is his best friend and he doesn’t want to cause a rift in her family, his Girlfriend soon realizes he has feelings for Ember and treats her horribly!
but Ransom can’t stay away from her and wants to ask Ember for a second chance, but she overhears sonething shes not meant to and believes he doesn’t care for her, so there insues alot of groveling on Ransoms part! he does break it off with girlfriend and sends her packing! he also made it plain to her he only invited her there as a friend! ☃️
❄️ Ransom follows Ember back home and pulls out all the stops to win her back! I did wonder how they would work out with their jobs so far apart but he Showed her how much he truly loved her with what he did!
the scenery and descriptions are truly fantastic in this book! I felt Ransom did everything right the second time around and he truly regretted what happened before. and I was so Happy they got their HEA! please give this book a chance as it’s a great Holiday Read! available on November 17th. ☃️
❄️ I received this book as an Arc and this is my own Opinion.
August 27, 2025
I love Ember (FMC). Love her family. Love stories set at Christmas time. Love second chance romances. Loved this book.
But Ransom (MMC) is TSTL for most of it!
Prior to the start of the book, Ransom and Ember dated secretly for a year. There is a big age gap (15 years), and Ransom, ultimately, breaks up with Ember by saying she was too young and immature - even when he admits to himself that he hasn't seen this immaturity!!!! He has this idea in his mind that he needs a woman his own age who is settled and "mature" without drama. (huge eye roll!)
The book starts right before Christmas when Ransom joins Ember's family (he is friends with her older siblings) and brings along his current lady. He has all these explanations for why he brought her, but basically he brought her as a buffer because he was worried about seeing her. All the while saying he was over her and didn't love her. Have to love MMCs that won't recognize good when they have it.
As expected, OW makes trouble. And goads Ransom into saying things that Ember overheard.
I won't give it all away, but Ransom finally figures his sh*t out and starts the work to reconcile with Ember. He completely redeems himself by making a huge sacrifice at the end that puts Ember's needs and dreams over his.
I got the privilege of reading an ARC for Time After Time and I loved it and recommend it for anyone who loves Christmas, age gap, and second chances ❤️
But Ransom (MMC) is TSTL for most of it!
Prior to the start of the book, Ransom and Ember dated secretly for a year. There is a big age gap (15 years), and Ransom, ultimately, breaks up with Ember by saying she was too young and immature - even when he admits to himself that he hasn't seen this immaturity!!!! He has this idea in his mind that he needs a woman his own age who is settled and "mature" without drama. (huge eye roll!)
The book starts right before Christmas when Ransom joins Ember's family (he is friends with her older siblings) and brings along his current lady. He has all these explanations for why he brought her, but basically he brought her as a buffer because he was worried about seeing her. All the while saying he was over her and didn't love her. Have to love MMCs that won't recognize good when they have it.
As expected, OW makes trouble. And goads Ransom into saying things that Ember overheard.
I won't give it all away, but Ransom finally figures his sh*t out and starts the work to reconcile with Ember. He completely redeems himself by making a huge sacrifice at the end that puts Ember's needs and dreams over his.
I got the privilege of reading an ARC for Time After Time and I loved it and recommend it for anyone who loves Christmas, age gap, and second chances ❤️
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 26, 2025
Would it be a Maya Alden book if I didn’t want to cause the MMC physical pain at least once while reading it? I think not! When I receive the ARC of this book, I wasn’t expecting to feel so protective of a fictional FMC but Ember made me want to yell at my kindle because from the start she was criticized and took it like a queen. I love how her sister jumped right in each time and eventually her whole family stood behind her (aside from the LASIK recommendations 😂) without even knowing what she was truly hiding and dealing with. Can you imagine being in a secret year long relationship with your brothers best friend and him ending it because you’re too young then spending 5 years avoiding any situations that you know would cause drama only for him to show up on your Christmas family vacation with some random “fwb” who is all about causing drama and marking her territory? The fact that it took him so long to finally see what the OW was doing and ended up shattering Ember all over again in the process really sent me in this book. All the while Ember (too young and immature according to Ransom) was the only one in this triangle that actually showed any real maturity and held it all in so that it wouldn’t ruin the holiday for her family. I won’t spoil more but just know that he had to work to put back the pieces he broke and the ending made it all worth while!
November 18, 2025
good not great
I guess I’d say this is a forced proximity second chance romance. Mmc has epiphany that he loves and missed Fmc after his fwb partner treats fmc horribly over the course of several days. Fmc and mmc haven’t spent any significant amount of time around each other since he broke up w her 5 years prior and now they’re spending 2 weeks w fmc’s family for Christmas and new years. If they hadn’t been around each other he wouldn’t have sought her out to get back together. When they do decide to get back together and have s*x they do so w out protection. Mmc says he’s clean (he’s never gone w out a condom) however it’s not like he got tested in the 2 weeks he was there on vacation. So I don’t buy it. Very over described rooms, clothes, food and wine. Seems to be how the author writes. Skim a page or 2 and look for dialogue to know when to start reading again. All of the fmc’s family are great characters.
I guess I’d say this is a forced proximity second chance romance. Mmc has epiphany that he loves and missed Fmc after his fwb partner treats fmc horribly over the course of several days. Fmc and mmc haven’t spent any significant amount of time around each other since he broke up w her 5 years prior and now they’re spending 2 weeks w fmc’s family for Christmas and new years. If they hadn’t been around each other he wouldn’t have sought her out to get back together. When they do decide to get back together and have s*x they do so w out protection. Mmc says he’s clean (he’s never gone w out a condom) however it’s not like he got tested in the 2 weeks he was there on vacation. So I don’t buy it. Very over described rooms, clothes, food and wine. Seems to be how the author writes. Skim a page or 2 and look for dialogue to know when to start reading again. All of the fmc’s family are great characters.
December 6, 2025
DNF
I hate writing bad reviews, but I need to get this off my chest. I’ve read quite a few of this author’s books, and about 60% of the time I strongly dislike them. My problem with this book (and many of the second-chance books this author writes) is how pathetic the FMC looks. I feel like these books could be so beautiful and impactful if the FMC either didn’t end up with the POS MMC, or if he at least groveled properly. And the FMC’s family having the MMC’s back, knowing what he did, is absolutely disgusting and insane. I’m sorry, but if I found out my sister was going through what Ember was, I would literally pour human 💩 on her ex. The fact that Ember’s family gives him grief for such a short amount of time and then kind of becomes “fine” with what happened is crazy work. Also, why is it always OWD and never any real OMD? Like, WTF?
I just can’t get over how hurt the FMC was—from the breakup, to seeing the MMC with his new girl, to the new girl being an absolute bitch, to watching them kiss and touch all the time, to hearing what he said about her—only for her to want to be with him again in such little time. It’s disgusting and really shows that the FMC didn’t actually have any self-respect. Yes, the heart wants what it wants, but girl, STAND UP. I also hated the constant comments about the FMC’s looks. I get that it’s part of the storyline, but it felt so pointless in the long run.
The constant comparisons between all the MMC’s past girlfriends/wife/f-buddies were also insane. I hate that in books. What’s the point? Why can’t you just say you’ve never really dated anyone like the FMC before or after your time together? Why comment on her looks and personality in a way that has such bad undertones.
I’ve read a lot of books by this author that I truly loved and would definitely read again, but so much of her work leaves a bad taste in my mouth and makes me want to slap the FMC and tell her, “Get your shit together, girl.”
If there’s one thing I would tell the author, it would be to take more time focusing on the FMC and her overall self-respect, because that is so important—especially in a world where women lose so much of it to men every single day. I would also love to see a story where the FMC takes more of a badass role, doesn’t accept shit from ANYONE, and has a backbone strong enough to stand up to the OW. Maybe next time she’s the one who brings her new man/f-buddy on the trip instead of the MMC.
I apologize if this was harsh, and I mean no disrespect to the author. This is just my personal opinion and not an attack on the author’s talents
I hate writing bad reviews, but I need to get this off my chest. I’ve read quite a few of this author’s books, and about 60% of the time I strongly dislike them. My problem with this book (and many of the second-chance books this author writes) is how pathetic the FMC looks. I feel like these books could be so beautiful and impactful if the FMC either didn’t end up with the POS MMC, or if he at least groveled properly. And the FMC’s family having the MMC’s back, knowing what he did, is absolutely disgusting and insane. I’m sorry, but if I found out my sister was going through what Ember was, I would literally pour human 💩 on her ex. The fact that Ember’s family gives him grief for such a short amount of time and then kind of becomes “fine” with what happened is crazy work. Also, why is it always OWD and never any real OMD? Like, WTF?
I just can’t get over how hurt the FMC was—from the breakup, to seeing the MMC with his new girl, to the new girl being an absolute bitch, to watching them kiss and touch all the time, to hearing what he said about her—only for her to want to be with him again in such little time. It’s disgusting and really shows that the FMC didn’t actually have any self-respect. Yes, the heart wants what it wants, but girl, STAND UP. I also hated the constant comments about the FMC’s looks. I get that it’s part of the storyline, but it felt so pointless in the long run.
The constant comparisons between all the MMC’s past girlfriends/wife/f-buddies were also insane. I hate that in books. What’s the point? Why can’t you just say you’ve never really dated anyone like the FMC before or after your time together? Why comment on her looks and personality in a way that has such bad undertones.
I’ve read a lot of books by this author that I truly loved and would definitely read again, but so much of her work leaves a bad taste in my mouth and makes me want to slap the FMC and tell her, “Get your shit together, girl.”
If there’s one thing I would tell the author, it would be to take more time focusing on the FMC and her overall self-respect, because that is so important—especially in a world where women lose so much of it to men every single day. I would also love to see a story where the FMC takes more of a badass role, doesn’t accept shit from ANYONE, and has a backbone strong enough to stand up to the OW. Maybe next time she’s the one who brings her new man/f-buddy on the trip instead of the MMC.
I apologize if this was harsh, and I mean no disrespect to the author. This is just my personal opinion and not an attack on the author’s talents
August 21, 2025
Maya Alden never disappoints. I know I read this in August, but it was a beautiful Christmas tale. I kind of want to spend my Christmases in Chamonix now. The chalet was a beautiful and romantic setting. Ember was a strong character and I loved that she wouldn’t bow to anyone’s opinion and was unapologetically herself. I loved the way Freja and Aksel looked out for her and their relationship. Unlike other stories, I loved her whole family and their entire dynamic!
Ransom made me a little crazy at times. I was not a fan of Calypso and found him a little cruel for bringing her and shoving her in Ember’s face. It was apparent from the beginning that he never got over Ember, which made it a little easier to forgive him. I love the overheard betrayal trope and this one didn’t disappoint. Ransom really messed up and I’ve got to be honest, hearing the words he said would hurt a lot. Ember was better and more mature than him throughout. It took him a bit to get off his high horse and realize that maturity doesn’t always come with age. That was apparent just with his behavior.
I was up in the air on his grovel until the end. His final act won me over and I finally thought he had proven himself to Ember and to me.
I got a ARC of this for an honest review. I would recommend this for anyone looking for a beautiful holiday tale with a second chance for love and a strong heroine who knows her worth. Maya Alden is one of my favorite authors and I’ve yet to find a book of hers that I haven’t loved. 💜
Ransom made me a little crazy at times. I was not a fan of Calypso and found him a little cruel for bringing her and shoving her in Ember’s face. It was apparent from the beginning that he never got over Ember, which made it a little easier to forgive him. I love the overheard betrayal trope and this one didn’t disappoint. Ransom really messed up and I’ve got to be honest, hearing the words he said would hurt a lot. Ember was better and more mature than him throughout. It took him a bit to get off his high horse and realize that maturity doesn’t always come with age. That was apparent just with his behavior.
I was up in the air on his grovel until the end. His final act won me over and I finally thought he had proven himself to Ember and to me.
I got a ARC of this for an honest review. I would recommend this for anyone looking for a beautiful holiday tale with a second chance for love and a strong heroine who knows her worth. Maya Alden is one of my favorite authors and I’ve yet to find a book of hers that I haven’t loved. 💜
September 10, 2025
I think this is one of my favourite books that Maya has written to date. It’s such a beautifully written book with everything people want including other women drama, but this is the first book in a while that I fell just as in love with the family members as I did with one of the MC’s!
Ember is a scientist and is one of those people who is quiet and enjoys her own company. Random is a heart surgeon and her older brothers best friend. They shared a year under the radar together when Random decided she was too young and immature for him so he cut her loose. Ember being the bigger person didn’t make a scene but she cut him from her life and moved to another city. Every year her family goes to their amazing chalet for Christmas. Usually Random doesn’t go if Ember is there but this year and after 5 years of not seeing each other he goes and brings the girl he is dating. Even though Ember is still hurt by what happened with them, she tries once again to be the bigger person. However this is where the other woman drama starts. Loved that Ember’s sister and brother literally have her back no matter what! It’s such a good story!!
Ember is a scientist and is one of those people who is quiet and enjoys her own company. Random is a heart surgeon and her older brothers best friend. They shared a year under the radar together when Random decided she was too young and immature for him so he cut her loose. Ember being the bigger person didn’t make a scene but she cut him from her life and moved to another city. Every year her family goes to their amazing chalet for Christmas. Usually Random doesn’t go if Ember is there but this year and after 5 years of not seeing each other he goes and brings the girl he is dating. Even though Ember is still hurt by what happened with them, she tries once again to be the bigger person. However this is where the other woman drama starts. Loved that Ember’s sister and brother literally have her back no matter what! It’s such a good story!!
August 22, 2025
What a beautiful story and such an immersive way to tell it! There are moments where I felt i was right there with the hero and heroine. Maya is an amazing storyteller and in this book, she took me on a beautiful emotional and visual ride. the H and h had a 1 yr fling years ago, and they meet up again during the Christmas season at her family's holiday home in Chamonix where he was invited because he's a very close family friend. I absolutely loved Ember, the h, and her whole family! The H brought a fwb as his +1 and sure enough, he regretted it because throughout the story, he saw how he should have never let the h go. Ember is still in love with Ransom, the H, but hides it and pretends she's over it. There is some OW drama in this, some overheard but no cheating and the H and h end up together with a hea, but the road there includes some self-reflection by the H. I loved the storytelling and all the warm feels it gave me. I cried but had some laugh out loud moments, especially with the helium balloons scene! loved it! Thank you Maya for allowing me to get a copy of this ARC in exchange for my review. I strongly recommend it.
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