Do you take this woman to be your lawfully wedded wife,
Sage Foster-Reed is frustrated and not at all content with her life or marriage. She’s restless and there’s nothing she can seemingly do about it.
Her wife, Jules, has been asked to officiate a friend’s wedding, pulling them to a hotel out of town for three days.
In Good Times and Bad, In Sickness and in Health …
When Sage goes to run an errand, she encounters Cat, a sexy stranger who seems to appear everywhere after their chance encounter. Cat brings Sage out her fog of misery and now Sage must make a decision- work on her marriage and go forward with the woman she’s built a life with, or run off to chase an uncertain future with Cat.
Fretting the decision to be made, Sage finds herself at a crossroads- until Fate steps in and makes the decision for her, and one of the two women she is torn between winds up dead. Is it a terrible accident, or did jealousy culminate in murder?
I think this was a fine read though I felt the plot was very predictable, it still did leave a bitter taste for me. The annoying part was on the one hand the blatant pretending and on the other the complete ignorance of the situation or perhaps a refusal to see the truth. It was just whether I had the patience to wait for the mic drop to happen.
The story was messy sad and depressing because of the conflicting signals Sage gave herself and I just couldn't get over the actual tragedy, and the ending wasn't bad per se, it just felt a little underwhelming.
If you've read Marisa's books before, you can be sure it's going to be a pain to read one of her books.
Still I'm easily pleased and I found it to be a page turner and turn the pages I did!
I received a free copy from Booksirens in exchange for a voluntary review.
Oh my gosh I loved this book. Sage and Jules are at a rocky patch in their marriage and Sage’s meeting of a stranger, compounded with Jules inability to put Sage first in their marriage causes Sage to make a huge mistake, and for Jules to make an even bigger one.
I say this a lot about books that i read- the characters have to make me feel something. I need to be invested in them to care about what happens next, and this book has that in spades. While I can’t say that Sage is perfect, or that she is blameless in what happens between her and Jules, I really did care about her. And I admire her choices in the end.
I would absolutely read more by this author. A thoroughly enjoyable read.
This book had a lot of potential and a cool concept, but it wasn’t quite there yet. Here are some things that would’ve taken this book from a 3 star read to a 5 star read:
1. Flashback scenes. Our protagonist and her wife are experiencing marital issues, and all we see is them not getting along and then her lamenting on how great they used to be together. Considering their bickering it was hard to believe these 2 were ever in love. We could’ve benefitted from seeing their life before this weekend occurred.
2. Multiple POVs. I think it would’ve really contributed to the mystery of it all if we got a look into some of the other character’s perspectives. Frankly the narrator of this book was very unlikable.
3. Like 200 more pages of character, plot & world development. And maybe a crazier ending. This one was too predictable.
Sometimes, someone comes into your life, and everything changes in an instant. Sage Foster-Reed experiences this first-hand in Author Marisa Billions' newest novel, "Till Death Do You Part." As Sage begins what is supposed to be a simple weekend wedding for friends, she quickly finds out that it won't be that ordinary. With her wife, Jules, as the wedding officiant, Sage is obligated to attend but often finds herself alone. As a series of events play out, starting with meeting a captivating stranger, Sage finds herself on a rollercoaster of emotions. While on the cusp of contemplating the direction of her life, a tragedy happens, changing her path forever.
Marisa Billion writes a compelling page-turner every time, and "Till Death Do You Part" is no exception. I read this novel in one day and couldn't get enough. I've also read her other 3 novels: "This Too Shall Pass," "Like Sapphire Blue," and "Into the Blue Again".
This book blew my mind. I’ve been looking for a book filled with angst and twists and turns and just so many feelings! From the word go this story is just so real, so raw so freaking deep that I couldn’t help but fall headlong into it. I FELT SO MUCH, like I was going through it with Sage instead of just reading it. It’s been a very long time since a book has left me reeling and my heart is literally all over the place right now. I don’t know why this book isn’t hyped up more than it is. If you’re looking for angst and feelings and mature, flawed characters this is the book for you. I cannot wait to recover enough so I can read it again!
I received this book as an arc and I loved it! It grabbed me and had me hooked wanting more! It has a really good story line with characters that I wished were real! I loved her writing style. I’m a fan and will be checking out her other books!
I was slow to start this ARC read, but wow! I couldn't wait to read more and see what would happen next! So much great detail. I really loved the characters and how they all fell together in interesting ways. Read this book!
Absolutely loved this book! Could not put it down! Not your typical LGBT smut romance novel. It has a really good story line as well as some well written characters that you wish were real! Wish I could erase my mind so I could read it for the first time again for the twists!!
They have an idyllic marriage—the envy of all their friends. But lately, Sage Foster-Reed’s happiness has been wavering. Maybe the lack of intimacy or Jules’ blatant rejection made her feel frustrated and unloved. Perhaps it was simply a rough patch that the women could work through by taking some time to reconnect.
A weekend away was the perfect opportunity to rekindle the spark. When Jules is asked to officiate a friend’s wedding at a swanky Orange County venue, Sage is hopeful for a romantic reunion. But things get complicated when Cat, an alluring stranger, enters the picture and takes an interest in Sage. As Jules’ wedding responsibilities keep pulling her away, Cat swoops in, sending Sage’s heart aflutter. Could Cat provide her with all the things Jules has been neglecting? Should Sage resist this sexy stranger’s advances and work things out with Jules?
Those desperate questions have an expiration date, though. A dark shadow looms over the weekend. Tragedy strikes, and only one of Sage’s suitors is left standing.
Marisa Billions, author of “Till Death Do You Part,” has done it again! She’s managed to completely reel me into another one of her propelling sapphic love thrillers, where I am engaged and (willingly) held hostage until the final page. This addictive novel boasts themes of love, identity, and revenge, bolstered by multi-dimensional characters – some I loved and others I loved to hate.
How well do you really know the person you married? You think you know all their quirks, desires— and secrets, but could you be missing something? While compulsively reading this thrilling novel, the author will stealthily plant doubt in the reader’s mind as she deftly illustrates the unraveling of a seemingly healthy relationship. To their friends and family, Sage and Jules have an enviable relationship. Still, a storm is brewing beneath, causing cracks in the proverbial foundation. Resentment, lies, and jealousy steer the ship, leading them to choppy waters. Sage has grown tired of being Jules’ sidekick and is losing sight of herself; Jules keeps putting Sage’s needs on the back burner. Marisa Billions highlights a classic case of complacency in marriage, and oftentimes, nothing can be more destructive!
Beyond delving deep into the inner workings of a marriage, Billions’ ability to create palpable chemistry between characters is unmatched. The moment Sage lays eyes on the sexy, brooding Cat, it is game over—by the way her body is responding, she knows she’s in trouble. Every encounter between the women builds on that first shock of electricity. From longing glances across the room to (not so) innocent flirtations loaded with innuendo, I held my breath, waiting for the characters to let their guards down and the unwavering yearning to take over.
A caveat to readers: you won’t be able to put this book down, so don’t plan on doing anything important. From the moment I received “Till Death Do You Part,” by Marissa Billions I was absorbed, and much to the chagrin of my family, I neglected all my responsibilities so I could binge-read in peace. This book has “bestseller” written all over it—a twisty, thrilling plot, complex characters, and swoon-worthy rendezvous.
These chapters is an emotional rollercoaster. There is an MAJOR twist in the plot and I Can't tell you what it is,you must read the book.
When I found out the twist I could not believe what was going on,I felt so bad for Sage. The ending of the epilogue is cute though.
I loved how in the story there is the mention of Instagram and tiktok.
Another touch down for Marisa . Oh speaking of touch down really Drew Brees lol.
This is my third book by Melissa Billions and this is my honest review
If you have never read my reviews before I like to read 5 chapters and review and repeat the process until I finish the book,but not with this story this story has part 1 and part 2. I just finished reading part 1 and will review part 2 after I'm finished with the book. I also like to have pictures in my head of the characters, I use actors/actress',Broadway actors/actress' and wrestlers.
I see Sage as Janel Parrish(Pretty Little Liars/Hallmark) I see Jules as Ashley Benson(Pretty Little Liars) I see Catherine(Cat) as Christina Ricci(Casper) I see Mitch as Andrew Walker(Hallmark) I see Mina as Jen Lilley(Hallmark) I see Aunt Lillian as Jasmine Guy(A Different World) I see Detective Rossi as Viv Leacock(When Calls the Heart)
Part 1
Just the title alone tells you We are about to be invited to a wedding.We have a married couple trying to spend more time together.We also have one half of the couple being pulled into parts,one with her wife and one with the bride. One half of the married couple is the person who will officiate the ceremony.
The other half of the married couple is caught in the middle of her own confusion.She is married but she also meets someone that she feels sparks with at Target and then at the wedding. Everytime she turns around at the wedding this woman is there.It turns out the person is cousin of the groom.
The wedding preparation seems to be riping the married couple away and pushing one half of the married couple and the target girl together. Sage and Jules are the married couple and Sage meets a girl at Target who she sees again at the wedding of Mich and Minia and Catherine (Cat) is Mich's cousin.
Sage is a struggling writer and stuck in her marriage and all she wants is Jules to pay attention to her,but Jules is so wrapped up in the wedding. When they are together there are always calls that something needs to be fixed or Jules is belittling Sage.
Sage is struggling with her feelings and she feels pulled toward Cat.The feelings are not just one sided and that can spell trouble.Even at the Wedding Sage and Jules are snippy with each other .Cat and .Mitch's aunt tells Sage a secret and Sage is confused by what she tells her . Speaking of trouble there is trouble in Cat's hotel room.
Sage is getting tired and is mad at Jules and she takes it out on Cat.When Sage leaves to go find Jules and try to fix their marriage,someone goes to the roof to find Sage,but she is not there and oh no there has been an accident Sage has been telling the Detectives everything from the beginning until the accident happened.
What was the accident and who got in the accident? Sage is taken back to her room and falls asleep next to who?
Suspenseful romance that keeps you guessing 'til the end. A story of soulmates, death, and finding yourself again.
Sage has been married to her wife Jules for over a decade. On the outside, the two are the "IT" couple and envy of friends. But for the last few years, the marriage has been crumbling on the inside and Sage is unhappy. Unhappy with herself, her marriage, and her life.
After a chance meeting with a stranger at Target sparks something in her, she begins to ask questions she had been too afraid to ask herself. When that stranger turns up at the same wedding her wife is officiating, the two have an undeniable connection and the fight within Sage begins. Does she stay with her long-term partner, or does she take a chance on the woman she can't stop thinking about since their hands touched on the same cart? The choice is made for her when someone plummets to their death, but who is it? Billions builds you up to the moment of truth on an emotional rollercoaster. And it's well worth the ride.
This book had me hooked from the beginning. I love Billions' writing style. It grabs you and the dialogue is clean to me. I'm a fan and I'll be checking out her other books.
From the first page I was mesmerised. The intrigue was very well written. The plot and them clearly defined and adhered to throughout the book. And the sexual tension is palpable.
The unfolding of Sage and Jules relationship, on rocky ground for some time, comes to a head during a trip away to a friend's wedding that Jules is officiating at. Stranger, chef Cat enters the scene and Sage is instantly drawn in.
The dynamics between Sage and Jules were dramatically retold by Sage I kept wondering what Jules's secret was. Why was she holding back so much? Why didn't she compromise with Sage? The story led me to believe that there was going to be an explosive secret explaining her actions. But there wasn't.
True, there were plenty of other intriguing secrets rising to the surface, but not the one I expected. In fact, I felt that Jules was a little hard done by, especially at the ending. it made me reassess all I thought about Sage and I came to the conclusion that she was actually the puppet master behind all the intrigue, not the hard done by wife she made herself out to be. And I didn't like her one little bit!
I received this book as a beta read. I’m not going to lie. The book starts off a little slow. Not bad slow, just comfortable and relaxing slow. Despite knowing something bad has happened, you still feel safe in the beginning. You hit a certain point though and suddenly you’re on a rollercoaster. I remember a point near the end where the main character mentions her stomach was in knots… so was mine with all the tension! I was on the edge of my seat waiting to see how everything played out. Not only does the author suck you into an amazing story, but she has some amazing lines about love. She talks about how soulmate doesn’t mean just one person forever bc we aren’t the same people forever. Sometimes we take different paths that lead us away from someone we loved. Doesn’t make that love any less special. This was such a wonderful read and I’m so glad I got the privilege of being a beta reader.
Till Death Do You Part is utterly compelling in its everyday depiction of a seemingly idyllic marriage, a most relatable relationship, the perfect backdrop for this intense, gripping story. Sage's emotional turmoil drew me in like a magnet. Would she stay loyal to Jules or succumb to the alluring Cat? The palpable tension between the characters electrifies as Marisa Billions masterfully unravels the complexities of marriage, the dangers of complacency, love, and identity, and the thin line between desire and betrayal, putting paid to my plans to tidy the spare room. I would have wrestled to the ground anyone who tried to take my Kindle from me before I knew the outcome of that fateful weekend. If you appreciate deep, multidimensional characters and a thrilling, emotional ride, Till Death Do You Part delivers the goods and then some. I can’t wait to read more by the intriguing Ms. Billions.
A very well-written story full of suspense, interesting characters amidst a complex love triangle. I loved the flow of this story, had my attention right from the start. Although I was no fan of Sage (and disliked her even more as the story went on, am sure other readers would disagree... read the book and find out if you are team Sage or not, lol). I liked Cat and Jule's dedication towards hard work and responsibilities (that was about it though, lol). And I enjoyed reading about other characters. Anyways this story was high in suspense so I can't write too much about it only that I read this book in a few days, enjoyed the story and would highly recommend it for a good weekend read :)
This book had it all and took my emotions on a roller coaster! It just was.
The book was well written and I just lost myself in it! I was up till 2 am yesterday because I could NOT put it down... I mean those love scenes 🔥 WHEW.
The deep longing that Sage felt to be shown she was wanted and cherished and to be listened to was absolutely palpable. The intense push/pull attraction at war inside of her with the sense of right/wrong. The shock and gut wrenching revelation. Then at the end having chosen herself and what was right as the light out of the situation.
At what should be a joyous occasion, a woman leaps/falls to her death.
But did she jump, or was she pushed?
Jules and Sage's marriage is in trouble, so when she finds herself attracted to a new woman, Cat, she is pulled in. The two have a short fling, but Sage is torn about what to do.
Then SPOILERS happen.
Now Sage has to figure out what happened, and decide what to do about it.
Good, solid read. Sage is a interesting if flawed heroine, and the plot was engaging. 4/5 stars.
As someone who has dealt with marital issues, I can totally sympathize with Sage. She didn’t know what to do when new feelings arose. But that decision was taken away from her with the tragedy. I can’t even imagine having to deal with that type of guilt. I don’t want to give anything away but if you like romance with a little bit of thrill and suspense, try this book out. You won’t regret it.
Don't let the dedication and foreword fool you. This is not a sappy story.
The first chapter started off with a bang. Like, what did I just read within the first chapter. Marisa really touches on some good points to where you could see yourself in every character's shoes. This also has a little witchy vibe, which I love.
It's a quick read with only 200+ pages, but if it resonates with you, you won't stop thinking about it.
This book keeps you guessing what happens next. Sage is so torn between her wife Jules of ten years or Cat who she meets at a store. The back and forth between the characters are perfect. You see things through Sage thoughts how she is trying to pull her life back together for herself. She is the one who gets to choose until that choice is taken away. Don't want to give to much but what a wonderful story to read make the right choice and read the book
First time reading a book by this author. I love the flow, I didn't want to put this down! I love the writing style. I recommend this if you like suspense type books. The book has a great storyline & is written well. I love books that put out a but of before/after if it's written well. This author absolutely kept my interest the entire book!
I liked so much of this book--until I didn't. The first several chapters were riveting, but I quickly became bored with the attitude of the main character. For a thriller, it lacked thrills and mystery. But the real irritation for me was the ad nauseum heavy use of "can we talk?" between characters. I wish this was more clever in plot, dialogue, and characters. Oh well.
This is an unbelievable story! Loved it! You started to feel as if you really knew the main character Sage. There were parts where she was arguing and I got mad too lol! I do wish there were a little more details at the end. That’s the only reason I gave 4 instead of 5 stars. But this book is definitely worth diving into.
"Till Death Do You Part" was an interesting book. The beginning of it gave me vibes of old mystery movies. It starts in the middle of the story and then goes back to tell you what happened before the death and then after the death. I did have a hard time getting into the book, but once I did, I couldn't put it down. Although I like the book, I think it would make a better movie.
I really love this book, it is the first book that I have read by Marisa, but it will most certainly not be the last. It sucked me and right from the beginning. I absolutely loved the main character, Sage, and it was an absolute page turner. Buy it today, you won’t regret it!
Another page-turner from Marisa Billions, opening with a gripping scene before diving into flashbacks. This suspenseful thriller is rich in detail about middle-class Southern California life and romance. I especially enjoyed the New Orleans references, which added depth to the setting, and appreciated that the romantic scenes were subtle rather than explicit.
I would’ve liked more insight into the protagonist’s emotional journey—particularly her sense of being underappreciated and losing her identity. Some of the marital arguments felt a bit stilted, while the chemistry with the new love interest was compelling, though it made me reflect on the line between genuine attraction and limerence.
After reading four of Billions’ books, I have to ask: where can I find a successful lesbian who’s emotionally available and not prone to jealous rage?
Sage is discontent with her life and her marriage, and when her wife, Jules, was asked to officiate at a friend’s wedding they both considered this a weekend to reconnect and fall back in love again. But it didn’t work out like that. Jules was busy with the wedding preparations and Sage found herself alone. In steps Cat, and Sage’s interest is piqued. But she knows she has a decision to make – stay in an unhappy marriage, or find love again with this woman who has cast a spell over her. The decision is not hers to make, though and one of the two women in Sage’s life is now dead. I had a lot of sympathy for Sage. She’s a great character and I was cheering for her to run off with Cat. And, although she only played a small part in the story, I loved Aunt Lilian. I’d love to know her story. Marisa Billions is an excellent writer. She invites you in, introduces these wonderful characters to you, and doesn’t let you leave until you’ve reached the last page.