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Always Been You #2
The Winter We Chose Us
Is love enough to keep someone from drowning?
Tobias is trying his best. Therapy. Staying busy at work. Focusing on the life he and Elijah are building together. But healing isn’t a straight line, and the thoughts he’s buried only grow louder under the weight of stress.
Elijah is doing everything he can to hold them both together. Navigating a new relationship isn’t easy, especially with distance between them, but he’s determined to prove to Tobias that he’s not going anywhere. Not this time.
When the winter grows cold and the ghosts of Tobias’s past creep into the present, they realize they have a choice: face the shadows together or risk slipping under and losing everything they’ve fought for.
Tobias is trying his best. Therapy. Staying busy at work. Focusing on the life he and Elijah are building together. But healing isn’t a straight line, and the thoughts he’s buried only grow louder under the weight of stress.
Elijah is doing everything he can to hold them both together. Navigating a new relationship isn’t easy, especially with distance between them, but he’s determined to prove to Tobias that he’s not going anywhere. Not this time.
When the winter grows cold and the ghosts of Tobias’s past creep into the present, they realize they have a choice: face the shadows together or risk slipping under and losing everything they’ve fought for.
- GenresM M Romance
425 pages, Paperback
Published December 9, 2025
104 people are currently reading
445 people want to read
About the author
Ella Kit
5 books181 followersElla Kit is a writer of LGBTQA+ romance novels who loves giggling and kicking her feet over charming characters, crying happy tears over love declarations, and celebrating those hard-earned happily-ever-afters.
Through her stories, she brings to life heartfelt romances that dive deep into love, growth, and self-discovery.
When Ella isn’t writing, you can find her reading, exploring new adventures, and chatting with readers who adore sweet love stories as much as she does.
Through her stories, she brings to life heartfelt romances that dive deep into love, growth, and self-discovery.
When Ella isn’t writing, you can find her reading, exploring new adventures, and chatting with readers who adore sweet love stories as much as she does.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 56 reviews
March 10, 2026
3.5⭐️
they are so cute😭🙏
they are so cute😭🙏
December 9, 2025
4/5 stars 3.5/5 spice
I’m delighted to see Elijah and Tobias get their happy ever after. These two were so in love with each other. Their love language was definitely touch/intimacy. Whenever they had an intimate moment you could feel just how much they needed one another.
Elijah had some personal growth in this book. He had his moments where we acted a little selfish and impulsive but once he got his head on straight and realised he needed to fight for Tobias he changed for the better. Tobias was sweet as always, treating Elijah like his entire world. He did make some stupid decisions in regard to his father and lying to Elijah about it but he was also under a lot of stress and pressure at such a young age. I’m glad they both decided to put the work in to make their relationship last and be more healthy.
I really liked Gabe’s character (minus his mistake) and the little hints we were given about him and his foster brother. That’s a story I’m really looking forward to reading.
- Found family
- Long distance relationship
- Restaurant co-owners
- Codependency
- Grief
- Dangerous father on the run
- Traumatic past
I’m delighted to see Elijah and Tobias get their happy ever after. These two were so in love with each other. Their love language was definitely touch/intimacy. Whenever they had an intimate moment you could feel just how much they needed one another.
Elijah had some personal growth in this book. He had his moments where we acted a little selfish and impulsive but once he got his head on straight and realised he needed to fight for Tobias he changed for the better. Tobias was sweet as always, treating Elijah like his entire world. He did make some stupid decisions in regard to his father and lying to Elijah about it but he was also under a lot of stress and pressure at such a young age. I’m glad they both decided to put the work in to make their relationship last and be more healthy.
I really liked Gabe’s character (minus his mistake) and the little hints we were given about him and his foster brother. That’s a story I’m really looking forward to reading.
- Found family
- Long distance relationship
- Restaurant co-owners
- Codependency
- Grief
- Dangerous father on the run
- Traumatic past
January 20, 2026
❄️You're all I've ever wanted. It's always been you. It will always be you🐦⬛
"As long as I'm his best friend, I'll make sure I'll always be there to pull him out of the deep end. Every. Single. Time."
"He has this overwhelming effect on me that makes me numb to everything else. My mind, my soul, and my body don't want him to leave. He can't leave. Not now. Not ever."
"It's like he's an anchor. When he's near, it doesn't feel like I'm floating away."
"Every second away from you hurts."
"My home is a pair of blue ocean eyes, and a warm solid chest. Everything else will figure itself out. Right now, I need to be home. Right now, I need Tobias."
"I love you, Tobias. All of you. Every single part. Even the parts you hate about yourself. I almost love those the most."
"This is what love is supposed to feel like. Terrifying. Fragile. And completely unconditional. This is real love. Flaws and all."
"He keeps choosing me again and again, even when it's hard. Even when it's down right painful. As much as I wanted to keep my pain away from him, it caught up to us. And yet, he's still here."
"You're all I've ever wanted. It's always been you. It will always be you."
"Life hasn't always been kind to me. There were days, a lot of days, I thought I wouldn't make it through. Days I felt small, or broken, or like I wasn't built for this world. But then there was you. And you saw me...all of me...and you loved me anyway. Loving you has never hurt. It's never been hard. It's the easiest thing I've ever done."
What a perfect ending to this duet. This was a gut-wrenching and wild ride that kept me engaged until the very last page. I cried a lot, laughed, screamed, had anxiety, smiled, and swooned. I love this author's writing style, flow, and the emotions she evokes in her stories. There was so much trauma, darkness, and pain in this duet. But there was also love, growing, and so much healing. These boys were everything and are definitely now one of my favorite couples ever written. I love how we got flashbacks of when they were kids. The prologue alone made me emotional 😭. The mental health aspects in this story were handled so well. I truly felt these characters' struggles. I was on the edge of my seat towards the end. I was terrified how this would end. Thankfully it has an HEA! The spice in this was delicious and spicin 🔥🔥🔥🔥.
This story picks up at the end of the last book. We follow the relationship between Tobias and Elijah. Elijah goes back to school, so we see them struggle with being apart and long distance. Tobias is still getting threats from his father and he hides it from everyone. Tobias is so stressed with the lies he tells, his father breathing down his neck, struggling to maintain the business by himself that he falls into depression badly. He hides it so well from Elijah. Elijah is busy with school, so he doesn't see through Tobias as much as he should. Elijah lets his jealousy get the better of him and he takes space from Tobias, which makes everything even worse. Can these two survive between the lies and miscommunication? Will Derrick finally destroy everything Tobias loves? Can the promises these two make still hold true?
I love these broken boys so much. Tobias ugh, my heart and soul bled for this boy 😭. He continues to struggle and deal with so many demons. I understand why he kept things from Elijah, but at the same time, I'm like Nooooo tell him! I love how these boys love each other so fiercely. Yes, they're codependent, but they have grown so much from the first book. I love how Elijah took the caretaker role in this book. He stepped up and really knew what Tobias needed. I loved how Elijah accepted and supported Tobias unconditionally. Seeing both of these boys heal and grow together was everything. This was one of the most hard earned HEAs I've ever read. I was scared towards the end, not gonna lie 😂😂. The epliogue made me smile and made my heart so happy. These boys were truly best friends at the heart of their relationship. I will be thinking about these boys for a while.
I loved the side characters in this book. Gwen was my favorite side character. She did everything for her boys and continued to support them 🥹. Gabe and Wyatt. I need that book now! I feel their story will have so much pain and tears 😫. I loved the found family they created with their restaurant. I also love how they kept Jude's memory alive. Anything with Jude made me bawl 😭. And Derrick. I'm glad that mf finally got his! I've never hated a villain so much in my life! If you're looking for a book that's filled with broken boys, trauma, crying, healing, lots of growth, spice, and all the swoony/pining moments, then this duet is for you. 🏞🌻🪻📸🐦⬛🍋🎶🎄❄️💙🤎
"As long as I'm his best friend, I'll make sure I'll always be there to pull him out of the deep end. Every. Single. Time."
"He has this overwhelming effect on me that makes me numb to everything else. My mind, my soul, and my body don't want him to leave. He can't leave. Not now. Not ever."
"It's like he's an anchor. When he's near, it doesn't feel like I'm floating away."
"Every second away from you hurts."
"My home is a pair of blue ocean eyes, and a warm solid chest. Everything else will figure itself out. Right now, I need to be home. Right now, I need Tobias."
"I love you, Tobias. All of you. Every single part. Even the parts you hate about yourself. I almost love those the most."
"This is what love is supposed to feel like. Terrifying. Fragile. And completely unconditional. This is real love. Flaws and all."
"He keeps choosing me again and again, even when it's hard. Even when it's down right painful. As much as I wanted to keep my pain away from him, it caught up to us. And yet, he's still here."
"You're all I've ever wanted. It's always been you. It will always be you."
"Life hasn't always been kind to me. There were days, a lot of days, I thought I wouldn't make it through. Days I felt small, or broken, or like I wasn't built for this world. But then there was you. And you saw me...all of me...and you loved me anyway. Loving you has never hurt. It's never been hard. It's the easiest thing I've ever done."
What a perfect ending to this duet. This was a gut-wrenching and wild ride that kept me engaged until the very last page. I cried a lot, laughed, screamed, had anxiety, smiled, and swooned. I love this author's writing style, flow, and the emotions she evokes in her stories. There was so much trauma, darkness, and pain in this duet. But there was also love, growing, and so much healing. These boys were everything and are definitely now one of my favorite couples ever written. I love how we got flashbacks of when they were kids. The prologue alone made me emotional 😭. The mental health aspects in this story were handled so well. I truly felt these characters' struggles. I was on the edge of my seat towards the end. I was terrified how this would end. Thankfully it has an HEA! The spice in this was delicious and spicin 🔥🔥🔥🔥.
This story picks up at the end of the last book. We follow the relationship between Tobias and Elijah. Elijah goes back to school, so we see them struggle with being apart and long distance. Tobias is still getting threats from his father and he hides it from everyone. Tobias is so stressed with the lies he tells, his father breathing down his neck, struggling to maintain the business by himself that he falls into depression badly. He hides it so well from Elijah. Elijah is busy with school, so he doesn't see through Tobias as much as he should. Elijah lets his jealousy get the better of him and he takes space from Tobias, which makes everything even worse. Can these two survive between the lies and miscommunication? Will Derrick finally destroy everything Tobias loves? Can the promises these two make still hold true?
I love these broken boys so much. Tobias ugh, my heart and soul bled for this boy 😭. He continues to struggle and deal with so many demons. I understand why he kept things from Elijah, but at the same time, I'm like Nooooo tell him! I love how these boys love each other so fiercely. Yes, they're codependent, but they have grown so much from the first book. I love how Elijah took the caretaker role in this book. He stepped up and really knew what Tobias needed. I loved how Elijah accepted and supported Tobias unconditionally. Seeing both of these boys heal and grow together was everything. This was one of the most hard earned HEAs I've ever read. I was scared towards the end, not gonna lie 😂😂. The epliogue made me smile and made my heart so happy. These boys were truly best friends at the heart of their relationship. I will be thinking about these boys for a while.
I loved the side characters in this book. Gwen was my favorite side character. She did everything for her boys and continued to support them 🥹. Gabe and Wyatt. I need that book now! I feel their story will have so much pain and tears 😫. I loved the found family they created with their restaurant. I also love how they kept Jude's memory alive. Anything with Jude made me bawl 😭. And Derrick. I'm glad that mf finally got his! I've never hated a villain so much in my life! If you're looking for a book that's filled with broken boys, trauma, crying, healing, lots of growth, spice, and all the swoony/pining moments, then this duet is for you. 🏞🌻🪻📸🐦⬛🍋🎶🎄❄️💙🤎
December 2, 2025
This was an enjoyable read. I liked finishing up Tobias and Elijah’s story.
Tobias and Elijah were likable. Both young adults navigating what’s already a difficult time in life with added challenges like grief of losing a parent/parent figure, another parent’s criminality, and being thrown into restaurant management and college on top of it all. Initially the first few chapters felt very spice heavy, but once the plot picked up it caught my attention. Especially towards the end of the book when things finally started ramping up with Derrick. He got the ending he deserved.
While overall I did like this there were a few things that I didn’t enjoy so much. Some bits felt added for dramatizing the story and didn’t add much to the plot or story itself. A few times things happen that should be red flags for Gwen and Elijah in regard to Tobias and it gets glossed over. It just doesn’t fit Gwen’s mother hen character to ignore these red flags (fainting, asking about legal advice). Also it was never brought up that Tobias stole money from the restaurant. It was not a small amount of money (not a duffle bag full with enough to obtain a car) and doesn’t seem realistic that it’s just forgotten about without consequence.
I also personally didn’t like the miscommunication bits with Gabe and Elijah it felt forced. I did like Gabe’s character so I’m disappointed we didn’t get more of his and his foster brother’s story in this. While
I’m glad they’ll get their book I wish there had been a bit more added to this one of them.
Thank you Ella Kit for this arc!
Tobias and Elijah were likable. Both young adults navigating what’s already a difficult time in life with added challenges like grief of losing a parent/parent figure, another parent’s criminality, and being thrown into restaurant management and college on top of it all. Initially the first few chapters felt very spice heavy, but once the plot picked up it caught my attention. Especially towards the end of the book when things finally started ramping up with Derrick. He got the ending he deserved.
While overall I did like this there were a few things that I didn’t enjoy so much. Some bits felt added for dramatizing the story and didn’t add much to the plot or story itself. A few times things happen that should be red flags for Gwen and Elijah in regard to Tobias and it gets glossed over. It just doesn’t fit Gwen’s mother hen character to ignore these red flags (fainting, asking about legal advice). Also it was never brought up that Tobias stole money from the restaurant. It was not a small amount of money (not a duffle bag full with enough to obtain a car) and doesn’t seem realistic that it’s just forgotten about without consequence.
I also personally didn’t like the miscommunication bits with Gabe and Elijah it felt forced. I did like Gabe’s character so I’m disappointed we didn’t get more of his and his foster brother’s story in this. While
I’m glad they’ll get their book I wish there had been a bit more added to this one of them.
Thank you Ella Kit for this arc!
December 3, 2025
✨ARC Review✨
My girl Ella has done it again with this one. This is the ending that Tobias & Elijah deserved.
I’ve read many books with a villain, however, Derrick Voss was written in the way that instilled fear in me. Knowing the damage he has cause, the fear he has induced, nothing made me happier than reading the end of this book knowing that my boys were safe. Although this book contains one of my least favorite tropes (keeping secrets for safety), understanding the kind of awful human Derrick was made it sooo much more believable.
It’s nice to read an MM romance that the primary focus is the love that these two have for each other and not purely smut (although there is a good bit of that too). I often times become bored with MM romances that push the narrative that men are simple sex obsessed, but this book was not that.
Overall, I loved this book, and am so glad these boys got their happily ever after.
As a Patreon member too, I can’t wait to see what Ella cooks up for Gabe & Wyatt! 🩷
My girl Ella has done it again with this one. This is the ending that Tobias & Elijah deserved.
I’ve read many books with a villain, however, Derrick Voss was written in the way that instilled fear in me. Knowing the damage he has cause, the fear he has induced, nothing made me happier than reading the end of this book knowing that my boys were safe. Although this book contains one of my least favorite tropes (keeping secrets for safety), understanding the kind of awful human Derrick was made it sooo much more believable.
It’s nice to read an MM romance that the primary focus is the love that these two have for each other and not purely smut (although there is a good bit of that too). I often times become bored with MM romances that push the narrative that men are simple sex obsessed, but this book was not that.
Overall, I loved this book, and am so glad these boys got their happily ever after.
As a Patreon member too, I can’t wait to see what Ella cooks up for Gabe & Wyatt! 🩷
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
December 9, 2025
This is an ARC review.
The Winter We Chose Us - Can love be enough?
Throughout this book, you see how hard Tobias tries to show how he’s changing and trying to stay afloat.
We’ve almost all been there in some fashion.
Bless him, Elijah keeps pushing them forward. The insecurities are THERE, ok!?
They have to choose each other every single time.
The miscommunication was hard to get through but it’s my least favorite trope.
I think this book shows how sometimes love is hard but worth it. And fun in the bedroom 🤭
Great book!
The Winter We Chose Us - Can love be enough?
Throughout this book, you see how hard Tobias tries to show how he’s changing and trying to stay afloat.
We’ve almost all been there in some fashion.
Bless him, Elijah keeps pushing them forward. The insecurities are THERE, ok!?
They have to choose each other every single time.
The miscommunication was hard to get through but it’s my least favorite trope.
I think this book shows how sometimes love is hard but worth it. And fun in the bedroom 🤭
Great book!
November 25, 2025
I have been waiting for the rest of their story and this book did not disappoint! I received at ARC of this book and I could not put it down. Ella Kit is such an awesome author and a pleasure to communicate with. This author will forever be on my automatic read list!
March 14, 2026
The Winter We Chose Us
After finishing the first book, I wasn’t entirely convinced this story needed to be a duet. Now that I’ve read The Winter We Chose Us, I’d say my feelings are pretty much the same. Like the first book, I’d give this one 4 stars. It was good and I enjoyed it, but there was definitely room for improvement.
One of the biggest issues for me—again—was the editing. There were quite a few sentences that felt messy or confusing, to the point where I had to reread them several times just to understand what the author meant. I noticed the same thing in book one, and it honestly felt at times like the rough drafts made it to publication without a thorough edit.
That said, I still genuinely enjoyed Tobias and Elijah’s love story. They really are great together, and their connection still feels strong and believable. However, this book didn’t really add much that felt essential to their story. After finishing the first book, everything already felt pretty well wrapped up, and this sequel mostly reinforced that feeling.
There were also moments in this book where both Tobias and Elijah became a little unlikable, which was frustrating at times. Thankfully, they were redeemed and ultimately found their way back to the people we rooted for in the first book.
The emotional core of this book really centers around Tobias and the trauma he endured from Derrick. Even after the fire, Tobias was still trapped in that control psychologically. That aspect of the story felt incredibly raw and real. Trauma like that doesn’t disappear overnight, and watching him struggle to break free from it was one of the more powerful parts of the book.
In the end, I was happy to see Tobias and Elijah get their HEA and find peace together. After everything they went through, they absolutely deserved it.
I’m also really curious about where the author might go next. The epilogue hints that Gabe and Elijah may actually be on friendly terms now, which was interesting to see after everything that happened earlier in the story. And Wyatt remains a complete mystery, which makes me even more intrigued. I’d definitely be interested in seeing a future book exploring Gabe’s story and learning more about Wyatt.
Overall, this was a solid conclusion to the duet, even if it didn’t entirely feel necessary. Still, if you enjoyed Tobias and Elijah in the first book, it’s worth reading to see them finally get the happiness they fought so hard for.
After finishing the first book, I wasn’t entirely convinced this story needed to be a duet. Now that I’ve read The Winter We Chose Us, I’d say my feelings are pretty much the same. Like the first book, I’d give this one 4 stars. It was good and I enjoyed it, but there was definitely room for improvement.
One of the biggest issues for me—again—was the editing. There were quite a few sentences that felt messy or confusing, to the point where I had to reread them several times just to understand what the author meant. I noticed the same thing in book one, and it honestly felt at times like the rough drafts made it to publication without a thorough edit.
That said, I still genuinely enjoyed Tobias and Elijah’s love story. They really are great together, and their connection still feels strong and believable. However, this book didn’t really add much that felt essential to their story. After finishing the first book, everything already felt pretty well wrapped up, and this sequel mostly reinforced that feeling.
There were also moments in this book where both Tobias and Elijah became a little unlikable, which was frustrating at times. Thankfully, they were redeemed and ultimately found their way back to the people we rooted for in the first book.
The emotional core of this book really centers around Tobias and the trauma he endured from Derrick. Even after the fire, Tobias was still trapped in that control psychologically. That aspect of the story felt incredibly raw and real. Trauma like that doesn’t disappear overnight, and watching him struggle to break free from it was one of the more powerful parts of the book.
In the end, I was happy to see Tobias and Elijah get their HEA and find peace together. After everything they went through, they absolutely deserved it.
I’m also really curious about where the author might go next. The epilogue hints that Gabe and Elijah may actually be on friendly terms now, which was interesting to see after everything that happened earlier in the story. And Wyatt remains a complete mystery, which makes me even more intrigued. I’d definitely be interested in seeing a future book exploring Gabe’s story and learning more about Wyatt.
Overall, this was a solid conclusion to the duet, even if it didn’t entirely feel necessary. Still, if you enjoyed Tobias and Elijah in the first book, it’s worth reading to see them finally get the happiness they fought so hard for.
March 20, 2026
This duet just solidified that trauma and hurt/comfort is my jam.
Tobias was going THROUGH IT. My poor boys. And Derrick….DERRICK🤬 I don’t think I’ve ever been so pissed at a character.
Tobias and Elijah are at the top of my favorite MM couples. Right with Bran and Niko, Kyran and Avi and Devon and Maddox🥹
Tobias was going THROUGH IT. My poor boys. And Derrick….DERRICK🤬 I don’t think I’ve ever been so pissed at a character.
Tobias and Elijah are at the top of my favorite MM couples. Right with Bran and Niko, Kyran and Avi and Devon and Maddox🥹
March 16, 2026
Ok this part stressed me. How much more can Tobias take!
Yeah no I didn’t want to live with him all those BS.
Elijah character development was amazing. You see the kid who became a young adult then realizing his flaws and making thinks right.
Their happy ending is lovely and gosh yes I love them!
Yeah no I didn’t want to live with him all those BS.
Elijah character development was amazing. You see the kid who became a young adult then realizing his flaws and making thinks right.
Their happy ending is lovely and gosh yes I love them!
March 17, 2026
A good continuation, but not much more than that for me. I still feel a lot for the main characters’ love story, but unfortunately it felt like there was a lot of repetition in the same types of conversations throughout, and at times it dragged a bit. However, it had a beautiful ending.
March 11, 2026
Didn’t really care by the end. Beautiful story tho.
March 11, 2026
Borderline 4.5 stars. Oh. My. God. Gorgeous. Angsty. FULL of love and boys being DUMB. I loved it.
March 3, 2026
Like the first book in the series, this one also blew my mind. The depth of emotion you feel for these characters is incredible. It’s an emotional roller coaster throughout the whole book. It truly couldn’t have ended better.
March 1, 2026
3.75⭐️
The writing in this book is so much better than in the first it flows so much better
The writing in this book is so much better than in the first it flows so much better
February 18, 2026
I had the absolute pleasure of doing an ARC read for this amazing book!! I cannot recommend it enough.
The Winter We Chose Us is the second installment in the Always Been You Series. Please read The Summer We Found Us first to understand how Tobia and Elijah found their way back to each other.
In Winter We Chose Us we once again fall in love with Eli & Tobias. Eli is away at school and Tobias is at home running Jude's Place and trying to hold it together to be strong for Eli while he is away. However, in the midst of trying to protect Elijah, Tobias' demons from the past are trying to ruin his happiness and it is beginning to take a toll on him physically and mentally. This book is absolute perfection it has hurt/comfort troupes, found family, great friends and mental health struggles and of course an HEA.
The Winter We Chose Us is the second installment in the Always Been You Series. Please read The Summer We Found Us first to understand how Tobia and Elijah found their way back to each other.
In Winter We Chose Us we once again fall in love with Eli & Tobias. Eli is away at school and Tobias is at home running Jude's Place and trying to hold it together to be strong for Eli while he is away. However, in the midst of trying to protect Elijah, Tobias' demons from the past are trying to ruin his happiness and it is beginning to take a toll on him physically and mentally. This book is absolute perfection it has hurt/comfort troupes, found family, great friends and mental health struggles and of course an HEA.
January 25, 2026
4.5 stars!!!!
This book is easily one of the most beautifully written queer love stories I’ve read, and the way Ella Kit handles mental health is thoughtful, intentional, and full of care without ever draining the joy from the story.
Tobias and Elijah feel painfully real. Their love isn’t perfect or easy, but it’s steady and choosing and showing up even when things get complicated. It’s the kind of love that feels like home. The kind that anchors you when your mind starts drifting too far out to sea.
I usually hate the miscommunication trope, but it actually worked here. The silence, the secrets, and the fear of being a burden made sense for who these boys are. It felt human instead of frustrating.
There’s a lot of pain and trauma in this book, especially surrounding Tobias, but it’s balanced with so much queer joy, healing, and found family. Nothing feels rushed or romanticized. The mental health rep is raw, respectful, and handled with care.
Their love is devoted, tender, and deeply unconditional. Best friends at the core, soulmates through and through. The HEA was hard-earned and incredibly satisfying.
This book is easily one of the most beautifully written queer love stories I’ve read, and the way Ella Kit handles mental health is thoughtful, intentional, and full of care without ever draining the joy from the story.
Tobias and Elijah feel painfully real. Their love isn’t perfect or easy, but it’s steady and choosing and showing up even when things get complicated. It’s the kind of love that feels like home. The kind that anchors you when your mind starts drifting too far out to sea.
I usually hate the miscommunication trope, but it actually worked here. The silence, the secrets, and the fear of being a burden made sense for who these boys are. It felt human instead of frustrating.
There’s a lot of pain and trauma in this book, especially surrounding Tobias, but it’s balanced with so much queer joy, healing, and found family. Nothing feels rushed or romanticized. The mental health rep is raw, respectful, and handled with care.
Their love is devoted, tender, and deeply unconditional. Best friends at the core, soulmates through and through. The HEA was hard-earned and incredibly satisfying.
February 4, 2026
What a beautiful emotional roller coaster! I have nothing bad to say about either of these two precious characters wow
December 9, 2025
I was blessed to be on Ella Kit's ARC team and read about Tobias and Elijah. Two precious boys with insecurities, grief, pain, and so much more but with a love that's meant to last a lifetime. We read our boys go through so many hard obstacles that could have torn them apart and almost did in book 1.From best friends, to one sided enemies then to friends again but then so much more. They fought hard but in this book they're fighting even harder for each other even when it feels like they're drowning. Especially Tobias. Gosh my poor sweet Tobias really went through it AGAIN in this book as if he didn't go through enough already 😭 (looking at you Ella! 👀 lol) He's finally got the restaurant running again, he's dealing with his grief about losing the only man who was ever a father to him and running his dad's legacy alone while Elijah starts school again after taking the year off. Now they have to combat the distance, missing each other like crazy, and ghosts from their past that aren't ready to leave them alone yet. You'll cry, scream, laugh, swoon and have to fan yourself more than a few times along with Tobias and Elijah. When their heads get too loud and everything feels like it's falling apart around them these boys do what they do best and come together and show each other that they're not alone and it's always been them. Since they were kids and even when they weren't talking they've always been meant to be and they prove that by messing up and not communicating to not burden each other yet showing up anyway especially when they need it the most time and time again. They also have such great support system behind them as well. (Gwen, my beautiful girl I'm talking about you mostly) I adored quite a few side characters but mainly I loved going on this journey of love, healing and forever with Tobias and Elijah and they will forever hold a place in my heart.
January 22, 2026
A beautiful ending for this duet! I already loved Tobias and Elijah and their story from the first book, and this book very quickly made me love them even more. Our sweet Tobias, ugh. My heart hurts so much for everything he has been through and continues to go through throughout the book. I love them together and love their love, even if it is pretty all-consuming for them most of the time. But, it works for them. The ending was so special. I wish I could say more about it here, but spoilers. All I will say is have some tissues at the ready.
I also want to highlight and appreciate the focus on building (and leaning on when needed!) a support system, healing, and the therapy rep.
Once I read the bonus chapter at the end from Gabe’s POV, the one incident with him (leaving it vague here) made much more sense. I am so excited for Gabe’s and Wyatt’s story. I can already tell their story is going to hurt. 🥺
It was also so beautiful to see author Ella Kit’s growth in writing between the two books. I can’t wait to read more from her and follow along as she continues to write.
4.5⭐️
I also want to highlight and appreciate the focus on building (and leaning on when needed!) a support system, healing, and the therapy rep.
Once I read the bonus chapter at the end from Gabe’s POV, the one incident with him (leaving it vague here) made much more sense. I am so excited for Gabe’s and Wyatt’s story. I can already tell their story is going to hurt. 🥺
It was also so beautiful to see author Ella Kit’s growth in writing between the two books. I can’t wait to read more from her and follow along as she continues to write.
4.5⭐️
December 9, 2025
Please read book one in this duet BEFORE PROCEEDING!!! This book is quite literally going to rip your heart out however in true Ella fashion it beautifully mends itself. Ella is a one click author for me - she writes and I read. Anytime. Tobias and Elijah are one of my absolute favorite couples. They’re so meant for each other it isn’t even funny.
Tobias is really struggling in this book. With his emotions (Elijah is away at college) , with his sperm donor - with work. With gosh life in general. Bad thoughts start seeping through little by little and he holds it all in until well he can’t anymore. Such a beautiful broken man.
Gabe irked me for a while andI wanted him to be good and I kept debating with myself on whether he was. But I can’t wait for Gabe and his broody man’s book - if that tells you anything 🤪 as long as he’s not messing with my boys then we are on good terms 😂
Elijah had HUGE character growth in this book I feel - in his emotions and his thought processes. Him as a person in general. I’m proud of him. Overall so proud of him. And so thankful Tobias has him around. I’d be lying if I said their love story is anything except messy and beautiful. That’s the best explanation. So messy. So so beautiful.
And let’s talk about Gwen- the beautiful angel she is. 😭 she deserves the best in life. She is one of the most pure characters I’ve ever encountered and I’m so thankful she was there for the boys.
I refuse to dedicate any large part of this review to Tobias’s sperm donor just know - I’m pleased with how it turns out 😂
Thank you Ella for pouring your heart into these books and sharing them with the world. You’re a beautiful soul and I’m so proud of you!!!
Tobias is really struggling in this book. With his emotions (Elijah is away at college) , with his sperm donor - with work. With gosh life in general. Bad thoughts start seeping through little by little and he holds it all in until well he can’t anymore. Such a beautiful broken man.
Gabe irked me for a while andI wanted him to be good and I kept debating with myself on whether he was. But I can’t wait for Gabe and his broody man’s book - if that tells you anything 🤪 as long as he’s not messing with my boys then we are on good terms 😂
Elijah had HUGE character growth in this book I feel - in his emotions and his thought processes. Him as a person in general. I’m proud of him. Overall so proud of him. And so thankful Tobias has him around. I’d be lying if I said their love story is anything except messy and beautiful. That’s the best explanation. So messy. So so beautiful.
And let’s talk about Gwen- the beautiful angel she is. 😭 she deserves the best in life. She is one of the most pure characters I’ve ever encountered and I’m so thankful she was there for the boys.
I refuse to dedicate any large part of this review to Tobias’s sperm donor just know - I’m pleased with how it turns out 😂
Thank you Ella for pouring your heart into these books and sharing them with the world. You’re a beautiful soul and I’m so proud of you!!!
December 9, 2025
Ella had done it again. I absolutely love this duet. These books make you smile, laugh, cry your eyes out and utterly destroy you at time, but I love them. It’s not often a book can make me cry but these two managed it. They make you feel very emotion possible. They truly take you on an emotional rollercoaster. They break your heart and put it back together again.
I could not wait to see how Elijah and Tobias story ended and I am so thankful I got to read their story early.
At times I wanted to shake some sense into them but most of the time I just wanted to hug them and keep them safe. They go through so much turmoil. Everything Tobias goes though brakes my heart no one deserves that. The way he feels about himself as a consequence is so sad, he has such a good heart and so much love to give but does feel he deserves love in return or that anyone could possibly love him.
I love how despite the unhealthy codependency but it works for them they are truly there for one another. They are each other’s biggest supporters and only want what’s best for the other and will to do anything to make sure they get it.
They are each other’s family, sole mates and best friends all in one.
Despite all they endured they managed to create their own found family. People who love and support them.
I love these books and these two broken boys trying to navigate life together, fighting their own demons with the love and support of the other. I am so glad they got their happy ending.
I could not wait to see how Elijah and Tobias story ended and I am so thankful I got to read their story early.
At times I wanted to shake some sense into them but most of the time I just wanted to hug them and keep them safe. They go through so much turmoil. Everything Tobias goes though brakes my heart no one deserves that. The way he feels about himself as a consequence is so sad, he has such a good heart and so much love to give but does feel he deserves love in return or that anyone could possibly love him.
I love how despite the unhealthy codependency but it works for them they are truly there for one another. They are each other’s biggest supporters and only want what’s best for the other and will to do anything to make sure they get it.
They are each other’s family, sole mates and best friends all in one.
Despite all they endured they managed to create their own found family. People who love and support them.
I love these books and these two broken boys trying to navigate life together, fighting their own demons with the love and support of the other. I am so glad they got their happy ending.
December 1, 2025
Ella! You absolutely did it again! Your ability to write messy, tender moments of love and self-discovery is truly top tier. You create characters who feel real, and I can’t wait to see what you share next!
I loved catching up with Tobias and Elijah. Their moments of confronting past fears and navigating vulnerability felt so authentic that I found myself rooting for them every step of the way. The way this book focuses on their personal journeys, while still delivering the tenderness and love we’ve come to expect from you, is just perfect.
Tobias’ growth, self-reflection, and courage to face his past and recognize his own worth is everything. The development of trust - not just between the couple, but within themselves - made the emotional payoff incredibly satisfying. Watching Tobias learn to lean on others for support, with Elijah doing his best to be there for him, was a crucial and beautifully handled part of his healing. I also loved how the secondary characters were woven in seamlessly, creating the found family Tobias needed without overshadowing the main story.
Overall, this is a beautifully crafted story about love, healing, and the courage to choose yourself - and each other. I’m so glad Tobias finally gets his happy ending and a life of freedom from Derrick.
I loved catching up with Tobias and Elijah. Their moments of confronting past fears and navigating vulnerability felt so authentic that I found myself rooting for them every step of the way. The way this book focuses on their personal journeys, while still delivering the tenderness and love we’ve come to expect from you, is just perfect.
Tobias’ growth, self-reflection, and courage to face his past and recognize his own worth is everything. The development of trust - not just between the couple, but within themselves - made the emotional payoff incredibly satisfying. Watching Tobias learn to lean on others for support, with Elijah doing his best to be there for him, was a crucial and beautifully handled part of his healing. I also loved how the secondary characters were woven in seamlessly, creating the found family Tobias needed without overshadowing the main story.
Overall, this is a beautifully crafted story about love, healing, and the courage to choose yourself - and each other. I’m so glad Tobias finally gets his happy ending and a life of freedom from Derrick.
December 9, 2025
I was gifted a free eARC of this book by the author, but my opinions are my own and are in no way influenced by the gift.
This is my third book by Ella Kit and I would say that it is probably my favorite so far. I really enjoyed the first book in this duet, which ended on somewhat of a cliffhanger, so I was glad to get to read this one to find out what happened to our MMC's.
Elijah and Tobias are best friends turned enemies turned back to best friends, then lovers, which I particularly enjoyed reading. I liked the pacing of the book, and the spice level was great in my opinion. Their story drew me in from the beginning. Tobias has a terribly abusive father, which I feel like Ella handled with perfect sensitivity. She never revealed too much detail about the abuse, only enough so that we understood. Tobias in particular will live rent free in my head for a long time to come.
Elijah and Tobias' story was both heartbreaking and heartwarming all at once. Ella writes really well-balanced, yet flawed and human characters, and she did a great job with character growth for Tobias and Elijah. This book wraps up their story so well.
I hope we get to see these two boys again in the near future (IYKYK).
This is my third book by Ella Kit and I would say that it is probably my favorite so far. I really enjoyed the first book in this duet, which ended on somewhat of a cliffhanger, so I was glad to get to read this one to find out what happened to our MMC's.
Elijah and Tobias are best friends turned enemies turned back to best friends, then lovers, which I particularly enjoyed reading. I liked the pacing of the book, and the spice level was great in my opinion. Their story drew me in from the beginning. Tobias has a terribly abusive father, which I feel like Ella handled with perfect sensitivity. She never revealed too much detail about the abuse, only enough so that we understood. Tobias in particular will live rent free in my head for a long time to come.
Elijah and Tobias' story was both heartbreaking and heartwarming all at once. Ella writes really well-balanced, yet flawed and human characters, and she did a great job with character growth for Tobias and Elijah. This book wraps up their story so well.
I hope we get to see these two boys again in the near future (IYKYK).
December 14, 2025
This book made me feel everything. The love these two have is the kind that feels strong, steady, burning, and impossibly tender. They love each other with a kind of single-minded devotion that’s rare and beautiful. All they see is each other.
But strong love doesn’t mean simple love. Their insecurities and fears still creep in at moments, and there were times I wanted to shake them both and scream, “Please just make different decisions!”
Yet those stumbles make their bond feel even more real. Their relationship is this gorgeous mix of heat, longing, soft touches, and raw vulnerability. They’re learning each other in deeper, messier ways, and it makes every moment between them hit harder.
The found family aspect of this book will have you wanting to apply for a job at Jude’s Place. They continue to support each other in the most beautiful way.
There is tension and suspense threaded through their story that will have you holding your breath and parts of the story that get dark so remember to check your TW's.
If you love MCs with unwavering, unconditional love, life struggles, found family warmth and a romance that will warm your heart, then The Winter We Chose Us is absolutely a must-read. Prepare to fall in love with Elijah and Tobias just like I have.
But strong love doesn’t mean simple love. Their insecurities and fears still creep in at moments, and there were times I wanted to shake them both and scream, “Please just make different decisions!”
Yet those stumbles make their bond feel even more real. Their relationship is this gorgeous mix of heat, longing, soft touches, and raw vulnerability. They’re learning each other in deeper, messier ways, and it makes every moment between them hit harder.
The found family aspect of this book will have you wanting to apply for a job at Jude’s Place. They continue to support each other in the most beautiful way.
There is tension and suspense threaded through their story that will have you holding your breath and parts of the story that get dark so remember to check your TW's.
If you love MCs with unwavering, unconditional love, life struggles, found family warmth and a romance that will warm your heart, then The Winter We Chose Us is absolutely a must-read. Prepare to fall in love with Elijah and Tobias just like I have.
December 5, 2025
* ARC Review
This book is the second duet to “The Summer We Found Us” and continues to follow the two mmc Elijah and Tobias overcoming difficulties and past / current trauma while also navigating a brief long distance relationship.
I was SALIVATING for this book after I had finished the first one and it did not disappoint. I love how more in depth Tobias story was this time around and my poor boy, I just wanted to hold him the entire time while reading.
I wanted to throw a brick at Derrick every single time he came up like EEYUK go away (I was so glad he got what he deserved in the end).
This story was a journey, filled with heartbreak and overcoming trauma while also navigating life in general. Healing isn’t leaner, therapy magically doesn’t fix you and you can’t unlearn trauma overnight. And, I loved Ella portrayed that in this book.
This book was so beautiful and during the end I was a weeping mess. The proposal and the wedding? Oh I was emotional. 🥹 I love my boys so much!! 🩵
- TROPES
🤍 MM
❄️ Co-dependency
🤍 Mental Health Rep
❄️ Hurt / comfort
🤍 Physical touch
❄️ No Third Act Breakup
🤍 HEA
Spice: 🌶️🌶️🌶️
This book is the second duet to “The Summer We Found Us” and continues to follow the two mmc Elijah and Tobias overcoming difficulties and past / current trauma while also navigating a brief long distance relationship.
I was SALIVATING for this book after I had finished the first one and it did not disappoint. I love how more in depth Tobias story was this time around and my poor boy, I just wanted to hold him the entire time while reading.
I wanted to throw a brick at Derrick every single time he came up like EEYUK go away (I was so glad he got what he deserved in the end).
This story was a journey, filled with heartbreak and overcoming trauma while also navigating life in general. Healing isn’t leaner, therapy magically doesn’t fix you and you can’t unlearn trauma overnight. And, I loved Ella portrayed that in this book.
This book was so beautiful and during the end I was a weeping mess. The proposal and the wedding? Oh I was emotional. 🥹 I love my boys so much!! 🩵
- TROPES
🤍 MM
❄️ Co-dependency
🤍 Mental Health Rep
❄️ Hurt / comfort
🤍 Physical touch
❄️ No Third Act Breakup
🤍 HEA
Spice: 🌶️🌶️🌶️
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
December 3, 2025
If I said The Summer We Found Us broke me, then I honestly don’t even know what to say about this book. Because this… this book was a true emotional rollercoaster. It shattered my heart into a million tiny pieces again and again, only to carefully glue it back together each time. What these two boys went through over the course of the story was heartbreaking.
The secrecy, the longing for each other when they weren’t together, the miscommunication, Tobias’s father, the blackmail, the threats, and in the middle of it all that immeasurable love they felt for one another… I honestly don’t even know what to say.
These two boys fit together like two perfect puzzle pieces. If anyone, they are the ones who can only function and exist by being together — it simply couldn’t have worked any other way.
They deserved the most beautiful happily ever after, and they had to fight so, so hard to get it.
It was a wonderful conclusion to the duology, and I’m incredibly happy I got to be part of the early reader team.
An ARC copy of this book was kindly provided by @ellakitauthor and this is my honest and voluntary review.
The secrecy, the longing for each other when they weren’t together, the miscommunication, Tobias’s father, the blackmail, the threats, and in the middle of it all that immeasurable love they felt for one another… I honestly don’t even know what to say.
These two boys fit together like two perfect puzzle pieces. If anyone, they are the ones who can only function and exist by being together — it simply couldn’t have worked any other way.
They deserved the most beautiful happily ever after, and they had to fight so, so hard to get it.
It was a wonderful conclusion to the duology, and I’m incredibly happy I got to be part of the early reader team.
An ARC copy of this book was kindly provided by @ellakitauthor and this is my honest and voluntary review.
December 13, 2025
The Winter We Chose Us gave Elijah and Tobias the HEA I’d been waiting (and stressing) for — and it was so worth it.
These two love hard. Their connection is rooted in touch and intimacy, and every quiet moment between them felt loaded with how much they need each other. Elijah had real growth here — yes, he messed up, but watching him finally choose Tobias and fight for them was incredibly satisfying. Tobias, meanwhile, broke my heart. He’s so young, carrying so much pressure and trauma, and even when he makes mistakes, you can feel how desperately he just wants to be loved.
Is their codependency healthy? Maybe not on paper but for them, it works. They’re each other’s safe place, best friend, and family, and seeing them build a found family around that love was everything.
This duet put me through the emotional wringer; I cried, I wanted to shake them, and I wanted to hug them both — but I wouldn’t change a thing. Ella Kit absolutely delivered, and I’m so grateful these boys got the ending they deserved.
Found family, grief, long-distance love, trauma, growth — and a hard-earned HEA. 💙
These two love hard. Their connection is rooted in touch and intimacy, and every quiet moment between them felt loaded with how much they need each other. Elijah had real growth here — yes, he messed up, but watching him finally choose Tobias and fight for them was incredibly satisfying. Tobias, meanwhile, broke my heart. He’s so young, carrying so much pressure and trauma, and even when he makes mistakes, you can feel how desperately he just wants to be loved.
Is their codependency healthy? Maybe not on paper but for them, it works. They’re each other’s safe place, best friend, and family, and seeing them build a found family around that love was everything.
This duet put me through the emotional wringer; I cried, I wanted to shake them, and I wanted to hug them both — but I wouldn’t change a thing. Ella Kit absolutely delivered, and I’m so grateful these boys got the ending they deserved.
Found family, grief, long-distance love, trauma, growth — and a hard-earned HEA. 💙
January 24, 2026
Wow.Simply Wow This one was a page turner that had me emotional through 60-70 percent of story. Easily a top 3 read for MM romance for me.
December 7, 2025
Where do I even begin? I have been so excited to finish Tobias and Elijah’s journey since finishing The Summer We Found Us, and now that it’s complete I have no words. This book really does a phenomenal job of shinning a light on mental health, and delivering the message that healing is not linear.
This book picks up right where book one leaves off and we follow Tobias and Elijah as they try to navigate life as a young couple. There are many obstacles they face along the way that make them really have to stop and think about if the dreams they had for themselves is still what they truly want.
I felt a connection with these two from book one and the connection only grew stronger in this book. The emotions that Tobias and Elijah’s love story will pull from you is like no other, so make sure you have tissues ready. And in true Ella fashion the messages that are portrayed in this book have the power to help many people. These two will always have a place in my heart and I truly enjoyed their hard earned HEA. I hope others love the beauty that is Elijah and Tobias as much as I do.
This book picks up right where book one leaves off and we follow Tobias and Elijah as they try to navigate life as a young couple. There are many obstacles they face along the way that make them really have to stop and think about if the dreams they had for themselves is still what they truly want.
I felt a connection with these two from book one and the connection only grew stronger in this book. The emotions that Tobias and Elijah’s love story will pull from you is like no other, so make sure you have tissues ready. And in true Ella fashion the messages that are portrayed in this book have the power to help many people. These two will always have a place in my heart and I truly enjoyed their hard earned HEA. I hope others love the beauty that is Elijah and Tobias as much as I do.
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