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Keeping Skylar
Skylar Grant, a dedicated teacher and devoted wife, thought she had the ideal life—the beautiful house, a close-knit circle of family and friends, and a sexy, loving husband. That is, until one night, she discovers a string of intimate messages on her husband’s hidden phone, unveiling months upon months of lies and deceit.
Shattered and heartbroken, Skylar makes the one decision she knows will wound him most, and ensure he never follows. With nothing but a car full of her belongings, she drives away from her life in Sydney, moving across states to the beachy suburb of Brightly Bay, Melbourne.
As Skylar navigates life as an independent woman for the first time in a decade, she is overwhelmed by heartache and loneliness, struggling to cope with the grief and loss of her marriage and past life. But a swift decision to take in a roommate one night turns out to be the most life-altering choice she ever makes.
Will her new beginning in Brightly Bay leave her more lost and heartbroken than before, or will it lead her to the life and happiness she truly deserves?
Shattered and heartbroken, Skylar makes the one decision she knows will wound him most, and ensure he never follows. With nothing but a car full of her belongings, she drives away from her life in Sydney, moving across states to the beachy suburb of Brightly Bay, Melbourne.
As Skylar navigates life as an independent woman for the first time in a decade, she is overwhelmed by heartache and loneliness, struggling to cope with the grief and loss of her marriage and past life. But a swift decision to take in a roommate one night turns out to be the most life-altering choice she ever makes.
Will her new beginning in Brightly Bay leave her more lost and heartbroken than before, or will it lead her to the life and happiness she truly deserves?
333 pages, Kindle Edition
Published August 25, 2025
372 people are currently reading
150 people want to read
About the author
J.A. Greenwood
1 book21 followersJ.A. Greenwood is a contemporary romance author from Sydney, Australia, who has a deep passion for writing emotionally charged love stories that tug—and sometimes tear—at the heartstrings. When she’s not immersed in fictional worlds, she’s doting on her four cheeky rabbits, travelling to cities inspired by the books she’s read, or enjoying time with her husband and family.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 71 reviews
September 27, 2025
ABSO-FUCKING-LUTLY NOT!
62% in and the “REAL HERO” goes home with 2 OW because he has feeling for the h and she isn’t ready after HER DOUCHE BAG HUSBAND CHEATED ON HER WITH HER BEST FRIEND FOR 6 MONTHS!
ARE YOU FUCKING KIDDING AUTHOR!?
FIRST HALF OF THE BOOK IS SEX SCENES W HER HUSBAND AND OW.
NOW THAT IM ROOTING FOR REAL AND BETTER MAN YOU GIVE ME A MANWHORE!? WHO is about to have a THREESOME w OW.!? ON PAGE!!!!!
OH AND HE SAID IT HAS BEEN A WHILE SINCE HE HAD SEX AND THAT HE HAS GROWN… well THAT JUST GOT BLOWN OUT OF THE WATER!? Omg fuck this fuck this fuck this! I’m sooooo pissed😡
Ok fuck this. First this was boring as shit. The author messed up the timing and spent to much time w the cheater and the reasons the h stayed for weeks and suffered were fucking pathetic.
Now this!?
‼️He leaves h at the bar and leaves w 2 OW goes to their hotel. And full on page makes out, gets fully naked in bed, watches OW eat out the other while he strokes himself and plays w the girls nipples and then is getting ready to fuck when he THEN DECIDES ITS A BAD IDEA!? 🤯🤯🤯🤯🤯🤯🤯🤯🤯🤯
What the actual fuck!? HE EVEN KISSES OW AFTER SHE ATE OUT OW AND THINKS… WONDER WHAT THE h PUSSY TASTES LIKE… 🤯🤯🤯🤯🤯🤯🤯
And somehow the h is all happy he didn’t do the actual deed w these woman! Like pay him on the back and give him praise 🤮😳😡. Is this what we want for ourselves and woman out there? No! And definitely not for our poor h that was cheated on!!!!!!
‼️First author we don’t want a on page scene w OW with our “REAL” hero after what she just went through w her husband. WE WANT SOMEONE BETTER.
A man not a WHORE or - man ruled by his dick.
NEVER AGAIN! I will not touch this author again.
But besides all that this had MAJOR issues.
Boring
Pathetic stupid h
Way to much time w the cheater and his whore
Pathetic douche of a real H
To much filler
Wasted boring time w her friends and day to day interactions that’s BORED ME
‼️Now for those that want to know. The H does get better… he wasn’t a total wash …but after the OW scene and his mentality behind it I just couldn’t have cared less about him.
‼️This is my favorite trope. h leaves cheater for a new and better man… cheater gets what’s coming to him while h is off happy w new man.
BUT you have to make him BETTER THEN THE CHEATING EX. THE NEW H CANNOT EVEN LOOK AT OW AFTER MEETING THE h. HE NEEDS TO SHOW HER SHE CAN TRUST HIM AND OPEN HER HEART TO HIM. This H was NOT better for me in this trope. AFTER the ON PAGE almost threesome it was a quick descent into the first puts of Hell! There was no coming back.
62% in and the “REAL HERO” goes home with 2 OW because he has feeling for the h and she isn’t ready after HER DOUCHE BAG HUSBAND CHEATED ON HER WITH HER BEST FRIEND FOR 6 MONTHS!
ARE YOU FUCKING KIDDING AUTHOR!?
FIRST HALF OF THE BOOK IS SEX SCENES W HER HUSBAND AND OW.
NOW THAT IM ROOTING FOR REAL AND BETTER MAN YOU GIVE ME A MANWHORE!? WHO is about to have a THREESOME w OW.!? ON PAGE!!!!!
OH AND HE SAID IT HAS BEEN A WHILE SINCE HE HAD SEX AND THAT HE HAS GROWN… well THAT JUST GOT BLOWN OUT OF THE WATER!? Omg fuck this fuck this fuck this! I’m sooooo pissed😡
Ok fuck this. First this was boring as shit. The author messed up the timing and spent to much time w the cheater and the reasons the h stayed for weeks and suffered were fucking pathetic.
Now this!?
‼️He leaves h at the bar and leaves w 2 OW goes to their hotel. And full on page makes out, gets fully naked in bed, watches OW eat out the other while he strokes himself and plays w the girls nipples and then is getting ready to fuck when he THEN DECIDES ITS A BAD IDEA!? 🤯🤯🤯🤯🤯🤯🤯🤯🤯🤯
What the actual fuck!? HE EVEN KISSES OW AFTER SHE ATE OUT OW AND THINKS… WONDER WHAT THE h PUSSY TASTES LIKE… 🤯🤯🤯🤯🤯🤯🤯
And somehow the h is all happy he didn’t do the actual deed w these woman! Like pay him on the back and give him praise 🤮😳😡. Is this what we want for ourselves and woman out there? No! And definitely not for our poor h that was cheated on!!!!!!
‼️First author we don’t want a on page scene w OW with our “REAL” hero after what she just went through w her husband. WE WANT SOMEONE BETTER.
A man not a WHORE or - man ruled by his dick.
NEVER AGAIN! I will not touch this author again.
But besides all that this had MAJOR issues.
Boring
Pathetic stupid h
Way to much time w the cheater and his whore
Pathetic douche of a real H
To much filler
Wasted boring time w her friends and day to day interactions that’s BORED ME
‼️Now for those that want to know. The H does get better… he wasn’t a total wash …but after the OW scene and his mentality behind it I just couldn’t have cared less about him.
‼️This is my favorite trope. h leaves cheater for a new and better man… cheater gets what’s coming to him while h is off happy w new man.
BUT you have to make him BETTER THEN THE CHEATING EX. THE NEW H CANNOT EVEN LOOK AT OW AFTER MEETING THE h. HE NEEDS TO SHOW HER SHE CAN TRUST HIM AND OPEN HER HEART TO HIM. This H was NOT better for me in this trope. AFTER the ON PAGE almost threesome it was a quick descent into the first puts of Hell! There was no coming back.
not-for-me
September 5, 2025Just read Miki’s review
SPOILERS
When I read a book about the heroine leaving her cheating husband (with her best friend nonetheless), I want her to UPGRADE!!!
Get with someone better 😐
Not someone who’s a manwhore and goes HOME with two women to have an ON PAGE threesome
But it’s “okay” because he doesn’t completely go through with it 🙄
He only watches them go down on each other and then kisses one of them with the other woman’s juices on her lips 🥴🥴🥴🥴
Not to worry though!!! Because he questions what the heroine’s juices must taste like and THATS what gets him to stop 🥴🥴🥴🤢🤢🤢
And he’s a better hero than her cheating husband?!?!
Yup. I can totally believe he’s gonna be faithful to the heroine when his first answer to “try” to get over her is to be in a threesome.
Soooo swoony 🥴🥴🥴🙄🙄🙄🙄
SPOILERS
When I read a book about the heroine leaving her cheating husband (with her best friend nonetheless), I want her to UPGRADE!!!
Get with someone better 😐
Not someone who’s a manwhore and goes HOME with two women to have an ON PAGE threesome
But it’s “okay” because he doesn’t completely go through with it 🙄
He only watches them go down on each other and then kisses one of them with the other woman’s juices on her lips 🥴🥴🥴🥴
Not to worry though!!! Because he questions what the heroine’s juices must taste like and THATS what gets him to stop 🥴🥴🥴🤢🤢🤢
And he’s a better hero than her cheating husband?!?!
Yup. I can totally believe he’s gonna be faithful to the heroine when his first answer to “try” to get over her is to be in a threesome.
Soooo swoony 🥴🥴🥴🙄🙄🙄🙄
December 14, 2025
3 - 3.5 Stars
Continuing my cheating books era.
The angst hit the spot (which is really all I'm here for if I'm being honest lol), and I liked how everything unfolded. I do think her recovery romance was a little rushed though.
Continuing my cheating books era.
The angst hit the spot (which is really all I'm here for if I'm being honest lol), and I liked how everything unfolded. I do think her recovery romance was a little rushed though.
August 31, 2025
The most amazingly realistic, heartache, gut-twisting story of a husband’s betrayal, and the woman who has the guts and brains to get out, move on, and keep her sanity with a shattered heart!!!
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️WoW⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
I absolutely loved this, no fluff, straight to the goods, real by chance happenings (cause that’s how life works), real ego + attitude + deceit, even the good times were believable & welcome❣️
📗 Looking forward to Book#2- Losing Mila📗
In Part 1:
🤎A true BFF “She’s my rock, my ride-or-die—the kind of friend who’d show up with a baseball bat in one hand and a shovel in the other if anyone ever dared to hurt those she cared about.”
😡 OMG… he is such a douchebag (Wife vs Mistress) “I just hope, in the end, that the woman I choose to keep. . . will be the right choice for me.”
In Part 2:
My fav moment: “Make a wish, duchess” 🎂 He was such an upgrade in so many ways💙
🤨 Isn’t Hannah & Nate’s baby -Luca a little too close to Kadens mistress name -Lucia/Luce/Lucy … like, really??!! 🙄 (considering this is my only 🙄, that’s pretty good!! lol😆)
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️WoW⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
I absolutely loved this, no fluff, straight to the goods, real by chance happenings (cause that’s how life works), real ego + attitude + deceit, even the good times were believable & welcome❣️
📗 Looking forward to Book#2- Losing Mila📗
In Part 1:
🤎A true BFF “She’s my rock, my ride-or-die—the kind of friend who’d show up with a baseball bat in one hand and a shovel in the other if anyone ever dared to hurt those she cared about.”
😡 OMG… he is such a douchebag (Wife vs Mistress) “I just hope, in the end, that the woman I choose to keep. . . will be the right choice for me.”
In Part 2:
My fav moment: “Make a wish, duchess” 🎂 He was such an upgrade in so many ways💙
🤨 Isn’t Hannah & Nate’s baby -Luca a little too close to Kadens mistress name -Lucia/Luce/Lucy … like, really??!! 🙄 (considering this is my only 🙄, that’s pretty good!! lol😆)
September 16, 2025
Skylar's husband was such a cheating POS, arrogant asshole. The audacity of that man. He just couldn't keep his dick out of the heroine's best friend, even after getting busted. I enjoyed the ragey feels and the comeuppance the cheating slimebag husband ended up getting. This was an enjoyable read for me.
September 5, 2025
Imagine downgrading after being cheated on 😭
August 27, 2025
Excellent Debut Novel!
This book was so good it shows you a strong woman healing from being cheated on by her husband. Then she finds Heath (swoon) they have a few misunderstandings from not communicating but it works out especially when it's true love. As for Kaden and Lucia karma found them!
This book was so good it shows you a strong woman healing from being cheated on by her husband. Then she finds Heath (swoon) they have a few misunderstandings from not communicating but it works out especially when it's true love. As for Kaden and Lucia karma found them!
September 5, 2025
Ohhhhh, this book 😂😂😂 It's like a battered and deep fried Twinkie! Absolutely unnecessarily over-the-top and makes you feel slightly nauseated, but somehow the novelty and layers of indulgence cause you to devour the whole thing as quickly as possible! The fact it was split in two parts, with the first being her navigating the relationship with her husband while secretly knowing about the affair and planning her escape was brilliant. The writing, the relationship and character development were not good, yet I found myself titillated and excited for the next page! This was the perfect book for my mood and totally encapsulated everything I was looking for, even if I rolled my eyes at how the relationship between the MC's developed and the needless drama and miscommunication between them. I feel like it's my modern day "Jersey Shore" and I'm tempted to read the next book!
September 27, 2025
Nothing new…
This is well written but frankly, there’s nothing really original about this. The tropes are stereotypical and while the characters are interesting, they don’t do anything out of the ordinary.
The ending doesn’t even have a twist that is unusual. As the OW, Lucia is just a desperate wh0re who targets any man she feels like. She’s pathetic…
KU read. Fine but nothing out of the ordinary.
This is well written but frankly, there’s nothing really original about this. The tropes are stereotypical and while the characters are interesting, they don’t do anything out of the ordinary.
The ending doesn’t even have a twist that is unusual. As the OW, Lucia is just a desperate wh0re who targets any man she feels like. She’s pathetic…
KU read. Fine but nothing out of the ordinary.
August 2, 2025
So, so good! This is the author's debut book, but you would never know it! It was very well written, and I was able to connect with the characters right from the beginning of the book, which is important to me.
The betrayal was gut-wrenching because not only did her husband cheat, but he cheated with her best friend. And the husband, Kaden, was the biggest narcissistic A-hole I've read about in a long time! I hated him so much. He never owned up to his betrayal. The excuses he came up with made me want to pvnch him in the face. It was that well written.
There was absolutely no grovel by the husband, so if you're looking for that. you won't find it.
Having said that, there was no need for him to grovel because Skylar has a new man! And he is a dreamy, perfect alpha male.
DO NOT MISS this book when it comes out. It's a ragey read and oh so worth the wait!
I can't wait for the next one!
The betrayal was gut-wrenching because not only did her husband cheat, but he cheated with her best friend. And the husband, Kaden, was the biggest narcissistic A-hole I've read about in a long time! I hated him so much. He never owned up to his betrayal. The excuses he came up with made me want to pvnch him in the face. It was that well written.
There was absolutely no grovel by the husband, so if you're looking for that. you won't find it.
Having said that, there was no need for him to grovel because Skylar has a new man! And he is a dreamy, perfect alpha male.
DO NOT MISS this book when it comes out. It's a ragey read and oh so worth the wait!
I can't wait for the next one!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 13, 2025
I received this book as an ARC.
I enjoyed the book and the story. I definitely felt rage at Skylar's husband and going into the book, be prepared that there is no grovel. The man hardly regretted any of his choices. Luckily our girl does not end up with him. I do feel like Skylar herself could have used some therapy because she didn't give herself time to heal from her spouse's betrayal.
The writing style was fast paced, almost a little too fast at times. It was easy enough to keep up with, with a few minor inconsistencies that I was able to overlook. I did think some of the dialouge felt a bit stiff. As the debut novel, it is understandable but it did pull me out of the story a few times because it was not how people would casually talk with each other. I did skim a few chapters from the 45-55% area because it felt repetitive, but the story picked up again. Despite that, I would read more books from this author. Overall I enjoyed the story, the multi povs, and the ending.
I enjoyed the book and the story. I definitely felt rage at Skylar's husband and going into the book, be prepared that there is no grovel. The man hardly regretted any of his choices. Luckily our girl does not end up with him. I do feel like Skylar herself could have used some therapy because she didn't give herself time to heal from her spouse's betrayal.
The writing style was fast paced, almost a little too fast at times. It was easy enough to keep up with, with a few minor inconsistencies that I was able to overlook. I did think some of the dialouge felt a bit stiff. As the debut novel, it is understandable but it did pull me out of the story a few times because it was not how people would casually talk with each other. I did skim a few chapters from the 45-55% area because it felt repetitive, but the story picked up again. Despite that, I would read more books from this author. Overall I enjoyed the story, the multi povs, and the ending.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 26, 2025
I received an ARC in exchange for an HONEST review.. So, here goes.
I went into this book blind. I didn't even try to find spoilers. Just that it has cheating and a new H.
As a reader, the first 3 to 5 chapters are crucial for me. These chapters sets the mood of the entire story and the the mood of the reader as well. It sets the stage, in a way that can either keep the reader's interest or tag it as DNF.
POSSIBLE SPOILERS incoming~
Skylar (the heroine) is just.. I dunno. I felt so disconnected with her. I love a cheating trope for the pain, hurt and angst the h could trigger in me but Skylar was so.. Empty. She felt too 1 dimensional for me to connect with her. She was simple someone the author says got cheated on and feels hurt. Nothing more.
Kaden (H1, ex husband) was written as an a*hole, selfish, cheating j₱rk. Thing is, I didn't hate him. I couldn't feel his remorse, nor his regret in what he did. Again, I couldn't feel a connection.
Heath (H2, new H) was too.. Perfect? He didn't feel.. Real. You that feeling when you know someone is lying to you but you still just.. Nod and pretend like you don't? That's how he makes me feel.
All kn all, the story was more of a tell rather than show. It had the potential to be an awesome book but the execution was weak. The dialogue is so-so. Like when someone is telling you a story about someone they know but a stranger to you--i refer to this as a 3rd degree gossip--and you have no choice but to listen and simply nod like you can relate to what they're saying. That's how this one felt.
I am giving it a 2⭐ for the potential and a 1.5⭐ for the execution.
I went into this book blind. I didn't even try to find spoilers. Just that it has cheating and a new H.
As a reader, the first 3 to 5 chapters are crucial for me. These chapters sets the mood of the entire story and the the mood of the reader as well. It sets the stage, in a way that can either keep the reader's interest or tag it as DNF.
POSSIBLE SPOILERS incoming~
Skylar (the heroine) is just.. I dunno. I felt so disconnected with her. I love a cheating trope for the pain, hurt and angst the h could trigger in me but Skylar was so.. Empty. She felt too 1 dimensional for me to connect with her. She was simple someone the author says got cheated on and feels hurt. Nothing more.
Kaden (H1, ex husband) was written as an a*hole, selfish, cheating j₱rk. Thing is, I didn't hate him. I couldn't feel his remorse, nor his regret in what he did. Again, I couldn't feel a connection.
Heath (H2, new H) was too.. Perfect? He didn't feel.. Real. You that feeling when you know someone is lying to you but you still just.. Nod and pretend like you don't? That's how he makes me feel.
All kn all, the story was more of a tell rather than show. It had the potential to be an awesome book but the execution was weak. The dialogue is so-so. Like when someone is telling you a story about someone they know but a stranger to you--i refer to this as a 3rd degree gossip--and you have no choice but to listen and simply nod like you can relate to what they're saying. That's how this one felt.
I am giving it a 2⭐ for the potential and a 1.5⭐ for the execution.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
October 22, 2025
Just when you are comfortable in life, you find out your perfect life with your perfect husband is not what it seems. Also maybe when you run away from that not so perfect life, youll open yourself up to new friends, new experiences and a new love .
Thats the main premise of this book and I was glad that taking a chance on this book that came up as a KU recommendation for me paid off (because mist of the time the KIndle recommendations based on my reading jusr arent for ne.
I thought that the plot was interesting, the characters were well developed and I woukd definitely recommend this book especially if up like when the heroine escapes her cheating ex and finds someone who deserves her ( her friends brother and her new roommate)
Thats the main premise of this book and I was glad that taking a chance on this book that came up as a KU recommendation for me paid off (because mist of the time the KIndle recommendations based on my reading jusr arent for ne.
I thought that the plot was interesting, the characters were well developed and I woukd definitely recommend this book especially if up like when the heroine escapes her cheating ex and finds someone who deserves her ( her friends brother and her new roommate)
October 22, 2025
4 stars
This was a good read. Typical cheating- wife leaves - meets a better and “hotter”man - husband regrets- gets kicked to the curb.
I always appreciate this storyline. The writing was engaging. Although I have to admit the sex scenes between Kaden, the cheating husband, and the OW were a bit much. I cringed when Skylar saw them on his desk. Kaden was all bad things I love to hate- gross and selfish in his cheating and how he shacked up with the OW while looking for his wife, a complete moron for believing the OW just made a new “friend” and didn’t care he was leaving for weeks, and pathetic for believing Skylar was going to take him back after everything he did. I did like that the first time he cheated that he cried and threw up but that didn’t stop him so….that negated any good will he earned by doing that.
I also liked that Skylar and Heath’s relationship wasn’t perfect. Lots of misunderstandings and jealousy.
Nice easy read. Nothing too crazy but I liked it!
This was a good read. Typical cheating- wife leaves - meets a better and “hotter”man - husband regrets- gets kicked to the curb.
I always appreciate this storyline. The writing was engaging. Although I have to admit the sex scenes between Kaden, the cheating husband, and the OW were a bit much. I cringed when Skylar saw them on his desk. Kaden was all bad things I love to hate- gross and selfish in his cheating and how he shacked up with the OW while looking for his wife, a complete moron for believing the OW just made a new “friend” and didn’t care he was leaving for weeks, and pathetic for believing Skylar was going to take him back after everything he did. I did like that the first time he cheated that he cried and threw up but that didn’t stop him so….that negated any good will he earned by doing that.
I also liked that Skylar and Heath’s relationship wasn’t perfect. Lots of misunderstandings and jealousy.
Nice easy read. Nothing too crazy but I liked it!
October 16, 2025
I skimmed through most of the book. It’s well written and a good story, I think it was just a me thing that I wasn’t really connecting.
I read a bunch of reviews that talked about the new H almost having a threesome after he’s met and connected with the h. I am not a big fan of that kind of thing in romance books so I was bracing myself. And yeah, it was off putting but I think I understand why the author did it.
She was using that situation to illustrate that Heath (new H), even though he was single and would technically have been doing nothing wrong, was able to walk away from two naked and willing women while having a raging hard on because he couldn’t stop thinking of Skylar (h).
Compared to her slimeball husband who never even tried to resist fucking his slut OW, I guess it was supposed to show how committed Heath was before he was even involved with Skylar.
So I get it but at the same time, it really wasn’t needed and was actually a pretty gross scene in my opinion. We as readers don’t want or need to see that to understand the new H is better.
Even though I didn’t really connect with the book, I’m kind of wanting to read the second book when it comes out which is about Skylar’s sister and the best friend of Skylar’s ex. They both get with other people though so that’s going to suck.
I read a bunch of reviews that talked about the new H almost having a threesome after he’s met and connected with the h. I am not a big fan of that kind of thing in romance books so I was bracing myself. And yeah, it was off putting but I think I understand why the author did it.
She was using that situation to illustrate that Heath (new H), even though he was single and would technically have been doing nothing wrong, was able to walk away from two naked and willing women while having a raging hard on because he couldn’t stop thinking of Skylar (h).
Compared to her slimeball husband who never even tried to resist fucking his slut OW, I guess it was supposed to show how committed Heath was before he was even involved with Skylar.
So I get it but at the same time, it really wasn’t needed and was actually a pretty gross scene in my opinion. We as readers don’t want or need to see that to understand the new H is better.
Even though I didn’t really connect with the book, I’m kind of wanting to read the second book when it comes out which is about Skylar’s sister and the best friend of Skylar’s ex. They both get with other people though so that’s going to suck.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
September 28, 2025
2 and a half stars
The story starts when the h finds out her husband of six years who she's been with for a decade is cheating on her with a close friend and colleague.
She's understably heartbroken but she keeps the knowledge to herself until she has a plan to leave in place.
The story focuses more on how she gets away, makes new friends and meets a new man. The reason she needed an escape route is because her husband apparently doesnt know how to let go. Alot of his red flags are mentioned but there's not really any showing of his toxic behavior. There is alot of on page cheating and multiple pov's for the h, the husband and the new H.
The story flow didn't work for me and the writing was a little disjointed. Misunderstandings abound between the h and her new man but they are quickly solved.
It was an okay read, but not particularly compelling.
The story starts when the h finds out her husband of six years who she's been with for a decade is cheating on her with a close friend and colleague.
She's understably heartbroken but she keeps the knowledge to herself until she has a plan to leave in place.
The story focuses more on how she gets away, makes new friends and meets a new man. The reason she needed an escape route is because her husband apparently doesnt know how to let go. Alot of his red flags are mentioned but there's not really any showing of his toxic behavior. There is alot of on page cheating and multiple pov's for the h, the husband and the new H.
The story flow didn't work for me and the writing was a little disjointed. Misunderstandings abound between the h and her new man but they are quickly solved.
It was an okay read, but not particularly compelling.
August 17, 2025
I received this as an ARC and I really enjoyed the book. The betrayal to the h is pretty devastating and the husband is a pretty disgusting person. Everything works out for th h in the end. She gets her happily ever after. I would highly recommend this book and look forward to
The authors future work.
The authors future work.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
September 4, 2025
Lost interest and stopped at 53%/Chapter 20.
November 13, 2025
Holy shit, the author genuinely thought the new man was an upgrade? After finding out my husband is cheating on me with my BFF, if I pack up all my shit and move away, I definitely wouldn’t be entertaining a guy who’s got feelings for me but happily runs off to have a threesome with OW.
But you know, how dare women have standards.
But you know, how dare women have standards.
October 12, 2025
PPC I found on KU
September 4, 2025
Excellent first novel from this author. Looking forward to Mila’s story next!
September 25, 2025
Fuck heath for that scene where he took those two girl for a threesome but stopped any penetration because he was getting a hard on for Skylar. But diddnt stop himself watching the two girls get it on and share kisses with one of them when she ate the other girl out ew.
And fuck Kaden he deserved that shitty ending. He was delusional throughout the book to think that any sane woman would take him back after his adultery and the decisions he made after Skylar left him.
The 4 star was for Skylar I’m gonna pretend heath wasn’t the one who proposed to her but someone actually decent.
I mean Heath doesn’t seem like the greatest guy like yeah sure he was there for her and he’s hot and all. But there really was nothing that made him stood out for me. But it feels like Skylar really rushed with him. Who’s to say he won’t and up like Kaden 10 years time? Wasn’t Kaden the same at the start of their relationship? Idk there wasn’t anything that really solidified for me that he would do anything for her.
And lastly Kaden. That ending was so satisfying having to find out the woman he cheated with cheated on him and got pregnant with someone else. Pure karma gold. Love that. Was also another reason for the 4 star. You feed me karma shit like that and I’ll eat it up.
And fuck Kaden he deserved that shitty ending. He was delusional throughout the book to think that any sane woman would take him back after his adultery and the decisions he made after Skylar left him.
The 4 star was for Skylar I’m gonna pretend heath wasn’t the one who proposed to her but someone actually decent.
I mean Heath doesn’t seem like the greatest guy like yeah sure he was there for her and he’s hot and all. But there really was nothing that made him stood out for me. But it feels like Skylar really rushed with him. Who’s to say he won’t and up like Kaden 10 years time? Wasn’t Kaden the same at the start of their relationship? Idk there wasn’t anything that really solidified for me that he would do anything for her.
And lastly Kaden. That ending was so satisfying having to find out the woman he cheated with cheated on him and got pregnant with someone else. Pure karma gold. Love that. Was also another reason for the 4 star. You feed me karma shit like that and I’ll eat it up.
September 5, 2025
This was such a strong debut! It’s a raw and visceral story of betrayal on the deepest and most primal of levels. In the midst of this heartbreaking fallout, Skylar is the epitome of grace and strength. I loved witnessing her healing and ability to let love in again.
August 29, 2025
Wonderful story 💜
I loved everything about the book. Beautifully written story of love, betrayal, strength, and finding love again. Each character perfectly fits. Heath and Sky are so cute together. A definite must read book 💜💜
I loved everything about the book. Beautifully written story of love, betrayal, strength, and finding love again. Each character perfectly fits. Heath and Sky are so cute together. A definite must read book 💜💜
August 25, 2025
Great book!!
Really enjoyed this book. The betrayal was a gut punch, something I personally like. The pacing was good. The fmc was strong and not a doormat. I can’t wait to read future books in this series
*I received a complimentary Advanced Reader Copy (ARC) of Keeping Skylar by J.A. Greenwood in exchange for an honest review
Really enjoyed this book. The betrayal was a gut punch, something I personally like. The pacing was good. The fmc was strong and not a doormat. I can’t wait to read future books in this series
*I received a complimentary Advanced Reader Copy (ARC) of Keeping Skylar by J.A. Greenwood in exchange for an honest review
November 10, 2025
Not bad…
I enjoyed this. The writing was smooth and the author did a good job portraying a true cake eater. This wasn’t OTT and was more grounded than other types. I prefer that instead of all the ridiculous OTT antics.
3.5 stars
I enjoyed this. The writing was smooth and the author did a good job portraying a true cake eater. This wasn’t OTT and was more grounded than other types. I prefer that instead of all the ridiculous OTT antics.
3.5 stars
August 8, 2025
Keeping Skylar
First time I am reading this author(but not the last!).
The story opens with Skylar, our heroine, finding her husband Kaden’s burner phone. Now, unless you are secretly a spy, there is no reason to have a burner phone…SPOILER ALERT…..he is not a spy!!! In addition to this, he cheated on his wife with someone she considered a friend, so yeah, it’s a double betrayal/heartbreak.
Now, Skylar has a choice to make…does she come forward with what she knows or does she take time to regroup and plan…One friend may have betrayed her, but she has others there to support her.
The first half of the book is Skylar biding her time til she is ready to strike. So, there is lots of cheating going on during this time and you will be amazed how much he disregards his marriage vows. We get to see Kaden’s thoughts, and the man may be pretty on the outside but he becomes very unattractive when we know what makes him tick. You will find him irredeemable! That’s ok, the author doesn’t intend to for you to get attached. Basically, Kaden is a controlling Narcissist intent on pleasing himself. He is married to a good woman, who he says he loves, while saying he loves another as well. He has his moments of fear, not guilt…he tries to reel his wife back in when he thinks he is losing her and at the same time he has to keep his harpy happy as well. When the wife is confronted with the live version of what she had previously seen on his phone, she has had enough.
She plans her escape with the help of her bff and sister. The hero is blindsided, and has no way to plead his case as she has left him with no forwarding information, only a folder full of his misdeeds. He starts heavily drinking and moves in with the harpy. Shockingly being with the harpy isn’t quite as thrilling anymore.
Meanwhile, the h restarts her life elsewhere. Her faith is restored in men, or should I say one man! (Heath!❤️)Kaden comes back around thinking he can reclaim his wife, but it is too late, and she isn’t interested. She lets him know that a divorce will proceed. There are a couple of minor bumps for Heath and Skylar, but the author makes quick work of them getting resolved instead of trying to add unnecessary drama.
We get a glimpse into her future with the epilogue and some closure with the fates of other characters in the book. Let’s just say not everyone gets what they wanted, but they definitely get what they deserved! I do believe her sister could possibly be getting a book.
This story seemed to move quite quickly with the author’s style of writing. This is definitely a story that will make you angry at the unbelievable behaviors of those who swear to love you. In the end the author is able to soothe my ruffled feathers with a satisfying wrap up. I was able to receive this story as an arc, and I look forward to future works from the author.
First time I am reading this author(but not the last!).
The story opens with Skylar, our heroine, finding her husband Kaden’s burner phone. Now, unless you are secretly a spy, there is no reason to have a burner phone…SPOILER ALERT…..he is not a spy!!! In addition to this, he cheated on his wife with someone she considered a friend, so yeah, it’s a double betrayal/heartbreak.
Now, Skylar has a choice to make…does she come forward with what she knows or does she take time to regroup and plan…One friend may have betrayed her, but she has others there to support her.
The first half of the book is Skylar biding her time til she is ready to strike. So, there is lots of cheating going on during this time and you will be amazed how much he disregards his marriage vows. We get to see Kaden’s thoughts, and the man may be pretty on the outside but he becomes very unattractive when we know what makes him tick. You will find him irredeemable! That’s ok, the author doesn’t intend to for you to get attached. Basically, Kaden is a controlling Narcissist intent on pleasing himself. He is married to a good woman, who he says he loves, while saying he loves another as well. He has his moments of fear, not guilt…he tries to reel his wife back in when he thinks he is losing her and at the same time he has to keep his harpy happy as well. When the wife is confronted with the live version of what she had previously seen on his phone, she has had enough.
She plans her escape with the help of her bff and sister. The hero is blindsided, and has no way to plead his case as she has left him with no forwarding information, only a folder full of his misdeeds. He starts heavily drinking and moves in with the harpy. Shockingly being with the harpy isn’t quite as thrilling anymore.
Meanwhile, the h restarts her life elsewhere. Her faith is restored in men, or should I say one man! (Heath!❤️)Kaden comes back around thinking he can reclaim his wife, but it is too late, and she isn’t interested. She lets him know that a divorce will proceed. There are a couple of minor bumps for Heath and Skylar, but the author makes quick work of them getting resolved instead of trying to add unnecessary drama.
We get a glimpse into her future with the epilogue and some closure with the fates of other characters in the book. Let’s just say not everyone gets what they wanted, but they definitely get what they deserved! I do believe her sister could possibly be getting a book.
This story seemed to move quite quickly with the author’s style of writing. This is definitely a story that will make you angry at the unbelievable behaviors of those who swear to love you. In the end the author is able to soothe my ruffled feathers with a satisfying wrap up. I was able to receive this story as an arc, and I look forward to future works from the author.
August 1, 2025
Skylar’s husband Kaden is more than a little controlling and she has never been able to get past her love for him. When she comes across a hidden phone, she discovers her husband’s affair she knows it is over.
Completely heartbroken by the betrayal she quietly puts into place a plan to leave Kaden without telling him and ensuring that he cannot follow her. On her own for the first time in a long time Skylar grapples with feelings of loneliness and inadequacy. Slowly pulling herself together she makes the life changing decision to take in a boarder.
This book is about the damage that infidelity leaves in its wake to everyone it touches. It is about a woman taking back control of her life and choosing herself for the first time in a long time. Just when things start to look up Skylar’s past comes back to confront her. The question is will she have the strength to stand strong or will she turn back to her past.
This is a gripping read and once you start you will not be able to put it down. Skylar is an amazing character that is realistically portrayed. Kaden show’s no remorse for what he has done, and he is a character you are going to have no trouble not liking. J.A Greenwood has delivered a painfully raw and realistic look at infidelity and its lasting effects on all involved in it.
I cannot say enough about how amazing this book is. The book is due out on the 25th August so mark it in your calendars you are not going to want to miss this one.
Completely heartbroken by the betrayal she quietly puts into place a plan to leave Kaden without telling him and ensuring that he cannot follow her. On her own for the first time in a long time Skylar grapples with feelings of loneliness and inadequacy. Slowly pulling herself together she makes the life changing decision to take in a boarder.
This book is about the damage that infidelity leaves in its wake to everyone it touches. It is about a woman taking back control of her life and choosing herself for the first time in a long time. Just when things start to look up Skylar’s past comes back to confront her. The question is will she have the strength to stand strong or will she turn back to her past.
This is a gripping read and once you start you will not be able to put it down. Skylar is an amazing character that is realistically portrayed. Kaden show’s no remorse for what he has done, and he is a character you are going to have no trouble not liking. J.A Greenwood has delivered a painfully raw and realistic look at infidelity and its lasting effects on all involved in it.
I cannot say enough about how amazing this book is. The book is due out on the 25th August so mark it in your calendars you are not going to want to miss this one.
September 24, 2025
Complicated, Heartbreaking, and So Worth Reading.
This book hooked me from the very first page. The betrayal hits harder than a gut punch, and as much as I despised Skylar’s husband, I appreciated that the author gave us his perspective, even in all its delusion, because it added complexity to the story.
Skylar herself is a phenomenal heroine: resilient, kind, and compassionate - walking the line between strength and grace without ever becoming a victim. I couldn’t put it down and read it all in one evening.
Spoilers-ish…
‼️ - Yikes! - ‼️
I’m glad I didn’t read the 1-star reviews before reading this book because I’m not sure I would have given it a chance. Everyone is entitled to their own interpretation of the story but the context of what some readers feel is the new hero “cheating,” matters.
I agree his choice was disappointing, but given that they were NOT in a relationship, I’m not sure how that is interpreted as cheating.
Poor judgment? Sure.
‼️ But - he had only known Skylar for three weeks. ‼️
Yes, there was chemistry, but there wasn’t a relationship yet—he intentionally held back because they were roommates, his sister had asked him not to pursue her, and he knew she was still reeling from her husband’s betrayal. Going home with those girls was absolutely a bad call, and it went further than it should have, but he did leave—and it wasn’t cheating because he and Skylar weren’t together.
This book hooked me from the very first page. The betrayal hits harder than a gut punch, and as much as I despised Skylar’s husband, I appreciated that the author gave us his perspective, even in all its delusion, because it added complexity to the story.
Skylar herself is a phenomenal heroine: resilient, kind, and compassionate - walking the line between strength and grace without ever becoming a victim. I couldn’t put it down and read it all in one evening.
Spoilers-ish…
‼️ - Yikes! - ‼️
I’m glad I didn’t read the 1-star reviews before reading this book because I’m not sure I would have given it a chance. Everyone is entitled to their own interpretation of the story but the context of what some readers feel is the new hero “cheating,” matters.
I agree his choice was disappointing, but given that they were NOT in a relationship, I’m not sure how that is interpreted as cheating.
Poor judgment? Sure.
‼️ But - he had only known Skylar for three weeks. ‼️
Yes, there was chemistry, but there wasn’t a relationship yet—he intentionally held back because they were roommates, his sister had asked him not to pursue her, and he knew she was still reeling from her husband’s betrayal. Going home with those girls was absolutely a bad call, and it went further than it should have, but he did leave—and it wasn’t cheating because he and Skylar weren’t together.
November 21, 2025
I really enjoyed Keeping Skylar. From the first few chapters, I was pulled into Skylar’s world and didn’t want to put the book down. Skylar's characters feel so genuine. A bit flawed, but still hopeful, and easy to connect with. There were moments that made me laugh, others that were heartbreaking, and plenty that had me flipping pages just to see what would happen next. Many late nights because I couldn't wait until morning to read what happened next.
What stood out most for me was how real the relationships felt. Messy and complicated, but in a relatable way.
Honestly, I could see this being a perfect pick for Reese Witherspoon’s book club. It has that mix of heartfelt storytelling and strong character focus that her choices usually have, and I think readers would have a lot to talk about after finishing it.
If you’re looking for something emotional but uplifting, this one’s worth picking up! I can't wait to read the next one in the series.
What stood out most for me was how real the relationships felt. Messy and complicated, but in a relatable way.
Honestly, I could see this being a perfect pick for Reese Witherspoon’s book club. It has that mix of heartfelt storytelling and strong character focus that her choices usually have, and I think readers would have a lot to talk about after finishing it.
If you’re looking for something emotional but uplifting, this one’s worth picking up! I can't wait to read the next one in the series.
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