What do you think?
Rate this book
Memoir in the Making
The first day of her junior year in college was supposed to go off without a hitch. But when Ainsley Jacobs sat in her memoir class with a professor she’d never had before, her life took an unexpected turn. She couldn’t get her well-dressed professor, Meredith Frenz, out of her head.
Meredith had lived a lonely yet comfortable life for the past fifteen years, and despite flings here and there, she had no desire to jump head first into a relationship, especially one with her student. Despite all her thwarted efforts, Meredith was determined to keep to herself and push Ainsley away.
Forbidden love is often the most attractive.
Meredith had lived a lonely yet comfortable life for the past fifteen years, and despite flings here and there, she had no desire to jump head first into a relationship, especially one with her student. Despite all her thwarted efforts, Meredith was determined to keep to herself and push Ainsley away.
Forbidden love is often the most attractive.
229 pages, Kindle Edition
First published May 1, 2015
10 people are currently reading
292 people want to read
About the author
Adrian J. Smith
77 books420 followersAdrian J. Smith has been publishing since 2013 but has been writing nearly her entire life. With a focus on women loving women fiction, AJ jumps genres from action-packed police procedurals to the seedier life of vampires and witches to sweet romances with a May-December twist. She loves writing and reading about women in the midst of the ordinariness of life. Two of her novels, For by Grace and Memoir in the Making, received honorable mentions with the Rainbow Awards.
AJ currently lives in Cheyenne, WY, although she moves often and has lived all over the United States. She loves to travel to different countries and places. She currently plays the roles of author, wife, and mother to two rambunctious kids, occasional handy-woman. Connect with her on Facebook, Twitter, or her blog.
AJ currently lives in Cheyenne, WY, although she moves often and has lived all over the United States. She loves to travel to different countries and places. She currently plays the roles of author, wife, and mother to two rambunctious kids, occasional handy-woman. Connect with her on Facebook, Twitter, or her blog.
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 42 reviews
May 25, 2022
A Professor of English and a college student feature in this age gap romance which shouldn't work but does - beautifully! Ms. Smith's storyline which sparks from inception is a realistic bump filled ride infused with heat and a determined lead character Ainsley refusing to give up on her love for the woman she sees as her soul mate, Meredith. I read slowly appreciating the nuances in the plot, looking forward to a HEA.
Worthy of 5 stars and on my re-read shelf.
Worthy of 5 stars and on my re-read shelf.
March 21, 2016
More than excellent!
A great love story with hot encounters. Meredith is struggling with her attraction to a younger woman. The sparks flew the minute they met. Meredith never counted on falling in love again. She tries hard to fight her desire but could she resist her? They have to overcome a lot of obstacles and not only the age difference. All of a sudden everything is so complicated. The characters are very realistic, you really care what happened to them and you going to love Ainsley. She is brave, knows what she want and has a positive attitude. This is in contrast to Meredith. She is uncertain about everything and leans heavily on her friend Sam. But she is also the one who has the most to lose. The storyline is excellent and well written. I wish that there were more stories about older women. I definitely recommend this to everyone.
A great love story with hot encounters. Meredith is struggling with her attraction to a younger woman. The sparks flew the minute they met. Meredith never counted on falling in love again. She tries hard to fight her desire but could she resist her? They have to overcome a lot of obstacles and not only the age difference. All of a sudden everything is so complicated. The characters are very realistic, you really care what happened to them and you going to love Ainsley. She is brave, knows what she want and has a positive attitude. This is in contrast to Meredith. She is uncertain about everything and leans heavily on her friend Sam. But she is also the one who has the most to lose. The storyline is excellent and well written. I wish that there were more stories about older women. I definitely recommend this to everyone.
August 23, 2023
Everything was the right amount. Right amount of conflict, romance, angst, length, and sex scenes. It’s such a perfect neatly packaged story that was so comfortable to read.
I daresay the age gap was quite significant between Ainslie and Meredith. However, the author cut through the bs and bureaucracy and successfully highlighted love as the core of story. If you caught it there’s just no way for anyone to hide from it or runaway, for the characters at least.
May 4, 2015
First let me say this, I haven’t read many f/f romance novels but I have been searching for one that would open my eyes and give me a beautiful love story between 2 woman and I think I have found that book. I love the m/m genre for the roughness, primal male testosterone that it provides, but I wanted something softer and sensual and I knew that I could find that in the f/f romance genre however it’s so hard to find one and I am so happy that I was able to read this little gem that Adrian J. Smith gave to us. It’s beautiful, sensual, sexy and breathtaking.
Professor Meredith Frenz is a strong and beautiful older woman who has been broken from a past relationship and knows that they are not for her. She lives her life everyday doing the same thing. Professor during the day, secret author at night she doesn’t take chances or live on the wild side. She has just a few close friends and her life is pretty boring. All it took was one look from a student to shake her world and turn everything upside down.
Free spirited Ainsley is living the college life. Hanging out with friends, attending parties, and studying. She is bright and outgoing. Funny and honest to a fault. She is strong and doesn’t back down from something she wants. She is a fighter and loves with her whole heart. Wise beyond her years she is truly an old soul. Her heart skips a bet with one look into Meredith’s eyes and she knows that this semester just got interesting.
The chemistry between Meredith and Ainsley right off the bat was off the charts. It was a instant type of lust that just wouldn’t go away. You tell someone not to look down and the first thing they do is look down, well, that is exactly how their secret affair started. One look, one lingering eye sweep is all it took to take these 2 down the road of a forbidden romance that wouldn’t go away. The sexual tension was thick. It was a constant struggle between right and wrong. A struggle of following your heart or listening to reason and knowing that acting on their desires and needs would lead to life altering changes.
Sparks will fly when they both finally give in to what they are feeling. Age difference be damned, right and wrong be damned, they will give in to their bodies desires and discovery feelings that they never knew existed. They will fight hard but love harder. They will give and take. They will simply learn how to love for the very first time or learn how to love all over again.
I was in complete and total awe by this story. It’s not raunchy, it’s simply beautiful. It’s a story of 2 woman who have to learn how to follow their hearts no matter what. It’s a story about learning to let go of the past and look toward the future. It’s a story of taking chances and knowing that if you fall there will someone there to pick you up. When Meredith and Ainsley are together their connection to one another is strong enough to withstand anything. There will be fighting and tears but there will be the fun part of making up too.
Adrian J. Smith gave us a beautiful love story where you can forget about the gender, age, race, religion, everything and focus on the love. Love has no gender, it has no color or age or race it is simple 2 hearts beating for each other. Love is beautiful is any form and she did a wonderful job giving us just that. Just love between 2 souls. I hope that with Memoir in the Making it will make a name for f/f romance and we will continue to see more of this genre. So to you Adrian J. Smith thank you for giving me a beautiful and pure love story to read. Thank you for taking me on this adventure and keeping my interest from start to finish. Great job. If you are looking for a great f/f romance to read than I strongly encourage you to grab Memoir in the Making and fall in love with love!
Professor Meredith Frenz is a strong and beautiful older woman who has been broken from a past relationship and knows that they are not for her. She lives her life everyday doing the same thing. Professor during the day, secret author at night she doesn’t take chances or live on the wild side. She has just a few close friends and her life is pretty boring. All it took was one look from a student to shake her world and turn everything upside down.
Free spirited Ainsley is living the college life. Hanging out with friends, attending parties, and studying. She is bright and outgoing. Funny and honest to a fault. She is strong and doesn’t back down from something she wants. She is a fighter and loves with her whole heart. Wise beyond her years she is truly an old soul. Her heart skips a bet with one look into Meredith’s eyes and she knows that this semester just got interesting.
The chemistry between Meredith and Ainsley right off the bat was off the charts. It was a instant type of lust that just wouldn’t go away. You tell someone not to look down and the first thing they do is look down, well, that is exactly how their secret affair started. One look, one lingering eye sweep is all it took to take these 2 down the road of a forbidden romance that wouldn’t go away. The sexual tension was thick. It was a constant struggle between right and wrong. A struggle of following your heart or listening to reason and knowing that acting on their desires and needs would lead to life altering changes.
Sparks will fly when they both finally give in to what they are feeling. Age difference be damned, right and wrong be damned, they will give in to their bodies desires and discovery feelings that they never knew existed. They will fight hard but love harder. They will give and take. They will simply learn how to love for the very first time or learn how to love all over again.
I was in complete and total awe by this story. It’s not raunchy, it’s simply beautiful. It’s a story of 2 woman who have to learn how to follow their hearts no matter what. It’s a story about learning to let go of the past and look toward the future. It’s a story of taking chances and knowing that if you fall there will someone there to pick you up. When Meredith and Ainsley are together their connection to one another is strong enough to withstand anything. There will be fighting and tears but there will be the fun part of making up too.
Adrian J. Smith gave us a beautiful love story where you can forget about the gender, age, race, religion, everything and focus on the love. Love has no gender, it has no color or age or race it is simple 2 hearts beating for each other. Love is beautiful is any form and she did a wonderful job giving us just that. Just love between 2 souls. I hope that with Memoir in the Making it will make a name for f/f romance and we will continue to see more of this genre. So to you Adrian J. Smith thank you for giving me a beautiful and pure love story to read. Thank you for taking me on this adventure and keeping my interest from start to finish. Great job. If you are looking for a great f/f romance to read than I strongly encourage you to grab Memoir in the Making and fall in love with love!
November 23, 2015
The writing is superb and the emotions each woman feels will pull on your heartstrings, but there is something (which may entirely just be me and how I see things) that keeps this from being a five star book.
I love May/December romances and, of the two female leads, Meredith Frenz is a wonderful woman and someone more than worthy of love. Though the age difference is huge (over thirty years) it is more the student/teacher dynamics and Ainsley herself that trouble me. Ainsley, who is supposedly mature way beyond her years, is still a college student who drinks and parties and I have to wonder what on earth the very responsible and intelligent Meredith sees in her.
Still, I would highly recommend Memoir in the Making for its sincerity and for the way it makes you want to keep on reading, despite how you may personally feel about the situation and the characters.
I love May/December romances and, of the two female leads, Meredith Frenz is a wonderful woman and someone more than worthy of love. Though the age difference is huge (over thirty years) it is more the student/teacher dynamics and Ainsley herself that trouble me. Ainsley, who is supposedly mature way beyond her years, is still a college student who drinks and parties and I have to wonder what on earth the very responsible and intelligent Meredith sees in her.
Still, I would highly recommend Memoir in the Making for its sincerity and for the way it makes you want to keep on reading, despite how you may personally feel about the situation and the characters.
September 29, 2020
2★
I don't really know how I feel about this, I didn't love it and I didn't hate it, it was just meh.
This is the story of Ainsley who falls in love with her professor Meredith, who is 30 years older than her. This is the biggest age gap I've yet to read and I don't know, I feel like they didn't really talk about it as much as they should've in the book. I also feel like we didn't really get to know the characters enough, I would've loved more scenes with them just like talking about stuff, going on dates etc, but I felt they just did the same thing over and over and nothing really happened.
I ended up rating it 2★, I just don't think this was my cup of tea sadly.
I don't really know how I feel about this, I didn't love it and I didn't hate it, it was just meh.
This is the story of Ainsley who falls in love with her professor Meredith, who is 30 years older than her. This is the biggest age gap I've yet to read and I don't know, I feel like they didn't really talk about it as much as they should've in the book. I also feel like we didn't really get to know the characters enough, I would've loved more scenes with them just like talking about stuff, going on dates etc, but I felt they just did the same thing over and over and nothing really happened.
I ended up rating it 2★, I just don't think this was my cup of tea sadly.
May 14, 2015
This is my first read by this author and it certainly won't be my last as this was a beautiful well written story.
This is the story of Meredith a professor and her student Ainsley. There are obstacles in their path such as quite a big age difference. The author shows us that age and gender doesn't matter when it comes to true love.
I found this to be a beautiful f/f romance. I really enjoyed this story and hope to read more like this from the author in the future. Loved it.
This is the story of Meredith a professor and her student Ainsley. There are obstacles in their path such as quite a big age difference. The author shows us that age and gender doesn't matter when it comes to true love.
I found this to be a beautiful f/f romance. I really enjoyed this story and hope to read more like this from the author in the future. Loved it.
November 24, 2015
Erk. This is one of those 'what am I missing' books - no disrespect intended but I honestly have no idea how this book has attracted 4 and 5 star reviews.
The prose is amateurish and it has multiple typos. All tell not show with some over-explaining to boot. The characters were one note, as was the plot.
I might have given this 2 stars if it was free. Maybe. However as full price novel there is no way I can recommend this piece.
The prose is amateurish and it has multiple typos. All tell not show with some over-explaining to boot. The characters were one note, as was the plot.
I might have given this 2 stars if it was free. Maybe. However as full price novel there is no way I can recommend this piece.
December 19, 2015
*sigh*
This could have been so much better. I can't pinpoint why it didn't work for me. This was definitely better than the other student-teacher book I've read. But the fact is, this kind of story already have known issues. We know that there are going to be issues regarding the school, their age, etc. but I wish this was written better - given more umph. To be honest, I skipped a lot of the fluff. Maybe it was the writing itself that didn't capture my interest that much, since the plot was okay by me. If you have suggestions on age gap and/or student-teacher (f2f) books that are better than this one, please help me find them. Lol
This could have been so much better. I can't pinpoint why it didn't work for me. This was definitely better than the other student-teacher book I've read. But the fact is, this kind of story already have known issues. We know that there are going to be issues regarding the school, their age, etc. but I wish this was written better - given more umph. To be honest, I skipped a lot of the fluff. Maybe it was the writing itself that didn't capture my interest that much, since the plot was okay by me. If you have suggestions on age gap and/or student-teacher (f2f) books that are better than this one, please help me find them. Lol
March 22, 2021
Marvelous Quick Read
I guess I call it quick when I can't put it down, just have to go all the way through to the end. This was that kind of book for me and I enjoyed every page.
I was an English major so that setting was welcome and familiar. Questioning what love is and isn't also rings familiar. Two great characters who also have intriguing side stories is a nice surprise.
I recommend this to anyone who loves a good age gap lesbian romance. It hits all the right marks. Give it a read.
I guess I call it quick when I can't put it down, just have to go all the way through to the end. This was that kind of book for me and I enjoyed every page.
I was an English major so that setting was welcome and familiar. Questioning what love is and isn't also rings familiar. Two great characters who also have intriguing side stories is a nice surprise.
I recommend this to anyone who loves a good age gap lesbian romance. It hits all the right marks. Give it a read.
May 15, 2021
Spoiler
This is big age gap 30 years and I'm here for it. Forbidden romance between a professor and junior in college. There is a best friend that is struggling through a sick partner.
Jaes SRC:
character is a book lover
character is a teacher or professor
age gap romance
new-to-you author
Unicorn:
character over 40
This is big age gap 30 years and I'm here for it. Forbidden romance between a professor and junior in college. There is a best friend that is struggling through a sick partner.
Jaes SRC:
character is a book lover
character is a teacher or professor
age gap romance
new-to-you author
Unicorn:
character over 40
July 13, 2016
My interest was captured from the first page. I will admit, romance isn’t my favorite genre. I tend to like character-based, plot-driven stories more than the more emotional/psychological storytelling of most romance. However, I felt this one struck a nice balance. Though my preference would have been for more action (it’s why I read her other books, after all), this was much better than the usual heavy, dramatic tone most love stories carry.
I wanted to know more about these women. I have to admit, I have a strong preference for women of a certain age, so I was thrilled with Meredith. She’s intelligent, classy, and mature without being condescending or snobby. Though she has a number of years on me, I still felt like I could relate to her in a lot of ways.
The sensuality is lovely and not at all over-the-top. It fits well with the overall sweet, tender feel of the novel while still being wonderfully steamy. Both women remain true to themselves even as they find something fresh with each other.
Ms. Smith delivers a captivating story every time—whether that’s urban fantasy, realistic police action, or sweet romance.For fans of gently flowing romance, May-December stories, and f/f fiction, this is definitely one to add to your shelf.
I wanted to know more about these women. I have to admit, I have a strong preference for women of a certain age, so I was thrilled with Meredith. She’s intelligent, classy, and mature without being condescending or snobby. Though she has a number of years on me, I still felt like I could relate to her in a lot of ways.
The sensuality is lovely and not at all over-the-top. It fits well with the overall sweet, tender feel of the novel while still being wonderfully steamy. Both women remain true to themselves even as they find something fresh with each other.
Ms. Smith delivers a captivating story every time—whether that’s urban fantasy, realistic police action, or sweet romance.For fans of gently flowing romance, May-December stories, and f/f fiction, this is definitely one to add to your shelf.
May 10, 2015
I was a little hesitant and not really sure what to expect with this book seeing as it is my first foray into the F/F genre. However I needn’t have worried as this was a sensual and sensitive love story of two women that crossed barriers such as age and the teacher/student taboo.
Ainsley is your typical college student, out looking for fun in between studying but when she meets her new professor, Ms Frenz (Meredith) she becomes her sole focus in life.
Meredith is a beautiful, smart older woman and after living a lonely life for the past fifteen years, she finds herself secretly drawn to the new student in her class, Ainsley. As a respected professor she knows she needs to tread carefully and understand this sudden yearning she has for this gorgeous younger woman.
This was an emotional and often passionate read and as my first F/F, I don’t think I could have chosen better to ‘dip my toe’ into. I would definitely recommend if you are wanting to open yourself to a new genre. A sensitively written and crafted read. Four stars.
Ainsley is your typical college student, out looking for fun in between studying but when she meets her new professor, Ms Frenz (Meredith) she becomes her sole focus in life.
Meredith is a beautiful, smart older woman and after living a lonely life for the past fifteen years, she finds herself secretly drawn to the new student in her class, Ainsley. As a respected professor she knows she needs to tread carefully and understand this sudden yearning she has for this gorgeous younger woman.
This was an emotional and often passionate read and as my first F/F, I don’t think I could have chosen better to ‘dip my toe’ into. I would definitely recommend if you are wanting to open yourself to a new genre. A sensitively written and crafted read. Four stars.
January 2, 2020
Age gap romances are my favorite subject to read. That being said, I found this story disappointing. For me, the age gap was a little bit to much. What 20 year old girl has this instant crush on her 51 year old professor. I found that unrealistic. I've had crushes on teachers, they never knew about them. But the age difference was not that long. Once they started having sex, that was pretty much it. If this relationship is supposed to work, I know it's been a long time for Meredith, but wouldn't you try and get to know the person, do things together. I do like a little reality in my stories.
Read
February 27, 2019Perfect in every way
This is easily the best book I have ever read. I have read roughly 1500 Les books and this is by far the best. I rarely reread a book, however, this marks the 6th reread of this one. I wish there were a sequel to this beautiful work so i could see the rest of their love story.
This is easily the best book I have ever read. I have read roughly 1500 Les books and this is by far the best. I rarely reread a book, however, this marks the 6th reread of this one. I wish there were a sequel to this beautiful work so i could see the rest of their love story.
January 27, 2022
Love is love
A beautiful age gap romance. The MC’s are engaging and the story weaves it’s way through the challenges that face them. Society would like to make rules about how things should be, but the heart tells us what is best for us. Change is scary for most people and this truly lovely story is about love over coming fear and what others think is right.
A beautiful age gap romance. The MC’s are engaging and the story weaves it’s way through the challenges that face them. Society would like to make rules about how things should be, but the heart tells us what is best for us. Change is scary for most people and this truly lovely story is about love over coming fear and what others think is right.
December 15, 2015
Memoir in the Making by Adrian J. Smith: http://reviews-and-ramblings.dreamwid... 2015 Rainbow Awards Honorable Mention (5* from at least 1 judge)
July 13, 2024
Hmm. This one was weird for me. I'd been putting off reading this novel for a while since I really didn't like Don't Quit Your Daydream, the only book from Smith I'd read. Unfortunately this one disappointed me too, albeit in a completely different way.
But first, the positives: I liked that there was an actual age gap between Meredith and Ainsley (31 years). They were both pretty likeable people, and so were the supporting characters (more or less). Though it could have been executed better, the plotline of definitely added some necessary emotion into the story.
On the flip side.. the entire book felt quite half-baked. There were some random plot inconsistencies, like Ainsley saying she will come early to Meredith's place to help set up a party, but then Meredith is surprised when it happens. Additionally, the major plot point of Ainsley telling her family about her relationship happens off-page, which felt like a massive missed opportunity to give the leads some challenges to work through.
On the subject of challenges, though, my biggest issue with this novel is the angst. There are ample natural sources for conflict and tension between Ainsley and Meredith, like the former's aforementioned family, and Meredith breaking the rules of her job. However, all of the real conflict that occurs only vaguely touches on these points, resulting in it feeling artificially constructed. When I was reading through the biggest argument the leads had, I was completely confused as to what it was supposed to be about. Like, I understand that sometimes emotions spill over and you argue about nothing, but that wasn't how this scene was written. It doesn't help that neither Ainsley nor Meredith are good communicators, with both of them ignoring each other's texts and phone calls several times.
Overall I was left a bit dissatisfied with this book. I think the bones of a good story were there, and the characters could have really shined if the execution had been better.
But first, the positives: I liked that there was an actual age gap between Meredith and Ainsley (31 years). They were both pretty likeable people, and so were the supporting characters (more or less). Though it could have been executed better, the plotline of definitely added some necessary emotion into the story.
On the flip side.. the entire book felt quite half-baked. There were some random plot inconsistencies, like Ainsley saying she will come early to Meredith's place to help set up a party, but then Meredith is surprised when it happens. Additionally, the major plot point of Ainsley telling her family about her relationship happens off-page, which felt like a massive missed opportunity to give the leads some challenges to work through.
On the subject of challenges, though, my biggest issue with this novel is the angst. There are ample natural sources for conflict and tension between Ainsley and Meredith, like the former's aforementioned family, and Meredith breaking the rules of her job. However, all of the real conflict that occurs only vaguely touches on these points, resulting in it feeling artificially constructed. When I was reading through the biggest argument the leads had, I was completely confused as to what it was supposed to be about. Like, I understand that sometimes emotions spill over and you argue about nothing, but that wasn't how this scene was written. It doesn't help that neither Ainsley nor Meredith are good communicators, with both of them ignoring each other's texts and phone calls several times.
Overall I was left a bit dissatisfied with this book. I think the bones of a good story were there, and the characters could have really shined if the execution had been better.
August 28, 2024
Stars: 3
Format: Digital
Series: Stand Alone
Steam Level: Spicy
This book is a very early work of Adrian J. Smith and it shows. The pacing is off, scenes seem disjointed, character motivations feel clunky, and there are typos that spellcheck would miss because the spelling is correct though it’s the wrong word, BUT this has the bones of how wonderful Adrian J. Smith’s writing would become. It’s always fascinating to read a very early work of an author who I love and see where they started and how much they’ve grown. And she’s grown A LOT since this.
Quick Thoughts:
- I am a complete SUCKER for Age Gap romances
- It’s a bit of a slog in spots
- At times Meredith gave me emotional whiplash and left me scratching my head on why she reacted certain ways
- Apparently I’m also a sucker for teacher/student romances
- At times I wanted to smack the crap out of Adam AND Meredith (for different reasons of course)
- Feels like there are some story plot points left hanging
- Wish there was an epilogue set after Ainsley graduated
- Do people really drink that much wine?
Overall I enjoyed this book and am glad I read it even with the issues I mentioned above. Unless you’re a fan (or a completionist like I am) I’d recommend skipping this one and starting with one of her later books. Still fun though.
Format: Digital
Series: Stand Alone
Steam Level: Spicy
This book is a very early work of Adrian J. Smith and it shows. The pacing is off, scenes seem disjointed, character motivations feel clunky, and there are typos that spellcheck would miss because the spelling is correct though it’s the wrong word, BUT this has the bones of how wonderful Adrian J. Smith’s writing would become. It’s always fascinating to read a very early work of an author who I love and see where they started and how much they’ve grown. And she’s grown A LOT since this.
Quick Thoughts:
- I am a complete SUCKER for Age Gap romances
- It’s a bit of a slog in spots
- At times Meredith gave me emotional whiplash and left me scratching my head on why she reacted certain ways
- Apparently I’m also a sucker for teacher/student romances
- At times I wanted to smack the crap out of Adam AND Meredith (for different reasons of course)
- Feels like there are some story plot points left hanging
- Wish there was an epilogue set after Ainsley graduated
- Do people really drink that much wine?
Overall I enjoyed this book and am glad I read it even with the issues I mentioned above. Unless you’re a fan (or a completionist like I am) I’d recommend skipping this one and starting with one of her later books. Still fun though.
September 10, 2024
Heartwarming, intimate, and honest; this slow burn romance delivers sweetness, satisfaction, and intense sensuality. Two women; one a middle-aged teacher scarred by being cut off by her wife and their children, the second a student who’s just turned legan and never been in love before fall hard for each other. Meredith and Ainsley are both creative, practical, and ethical; trying to argue themselves out of what’s happening; while discovering how perfectly in synch they are as a couple; emotionally, intellectually, and sexually. Their developing bond speaks for itself in swelling power, drowning out conventional values, making them ring with a generic hollowness for these particular people. No one quite understands, not even their gay best friends; although both Sam and Adam get it with time, becoming more supportive. Love reveals how beautifully it can blossom and triumph over conventional considerations in this story, blooming between two people drawn together by a compatibility few are fortunate enough to have. It was an optimistic, hopeful, and thought-provoking read, along with one of the most satisfying romances I’ve been fortunate enough to enjoy.
June 10, 2023
This was a very interesting story of Meredith, a fifty-two year old English professor of creative writing and Ainsley, one of her students, on the cusp of turning twenty-one. Very early on, the prof realizes the writing talent shown by Ainsley and encourages her to enter a memoir contest. The more time they spend together, the more they become attracted to one another and realize they just can't fight it.
The plot is very good with lots of interesting baggage from their pasts and emotional grit in the writing flow. What I found special was that each of these women had a male best friend and confidante. I really loved their relationships and they provided great sounding boards to help the main characters face their fears.
I've only read a couple of Adrian's books, but this one was riddled with spelling and grammar mistakes so as much as I liked the story, I cannot give it a five! The more I read today, the more I'm positive that there is a great need for good proofreaders. Maybe your ARC team can help you!
The plot is very good with lots of interesting baggage from their pasts and emotional grit in the writing flow. What I found special was that each of these women had a male best friend and confidante. I really loved their relationships and they provided great sounding boards to help the main characters face their fears.
I've only read a couple of Adrian's books, but this one was riddled with spelling and grammar mistakes so as much as I liked the story, I cannot give it a five! The more I read today, the more I'm positive that there is a great need for good proofreaders. Maybe your ARC team can help you!
September 15, 2021
I loved reading this book and I enjoyed it. I know age gap love stories are not easy and many people have different opinions about it, but this book was a great escape. I do think however that with more conversations between Ainsley and Meredith, I would have rated it 5stars.
I see books as a different universe and I try to enjoy them without overthinking stuff and trying to change plots and stuff. A 30+ years gap between a student and her professor may seem way to unrealistic, but I think that's what I loved about it. It's not a story where what you want is what u get from a book. You simply read it and enjoy it for what it is, an awesome sincere read.
I see books as a different universe and I try to enjoy them without overthinking stuff and trying to change plots and stuff. A 30+ years gap between a student and her professor may seem way to unrealistic, but I think that's what I loved about it. It's not a story where what you want is what u get from a book. You simply read it and enjoy it for what it is, an awesome sincere read.
March 29, 2023
I’ll always have a soft spot for this book as it’s honestly one of the first LGBTQ books I ever read. The age gap is a little too large for my liking but moving past that I enjoyed re reading this book! I remember reading this a good few times when I first had my hands on it! It was amazing to read some romance involving two women.
There’s so much more out there now but this one will always have a place in my heart for making me feel so understood in regards to my sexuality and how feeling this way about a women was so natural.
There’s so much more out there now but this one will always have a place in my heart for making me feel so understood in regards to my sexuality and how feeling this way about a women was so natural.
July 31, 2023
Had this on my kindle for a while now and finally got around to reading it…seriously my TBR is out of control!
I enjoyed it but had a slight problem with the age gap.it didn’t take away from the book though…actually I think it helped a bit with the doubts the characters had. I only took a star off as the side characters kinda made me mad. Yes it’s an age gap, yes it’s a teacher/student issue but when you know you know. Overall I’m kinda miffed I left it so long to read it.
I enjoyed it but had a slight problem with the age gap.it didn’t take away from the book though…actually I think it helped a bit with the doubts the characters had. I only took a star off as the side characters kinda made me mad. Yes it’s an age gap, yes it’s a teacher/student issue but when you know you know. Overall I’m kinda miffed I left it so long to read it.
October 29, 2021
I'm a bit conflicted about this. I loved the back and forth, the struggle, the age-gap, all of that. And yet somehow, especially the beginning, seemed a bit too fast for my liking. Not exactly rushed, but it felt like any struggle was easily forgotten and sped through. Still a really nice read :D
March 18, 2025
I found the writing to be rather repetitive and uninspired. The premise is really hot and there is some fun smut in there. I’m glad I only paid 7$ for the book but it just wasn’t my cup of tea at the end of the day.
June 3, 2015
A different love story that is very normal….
Meredith Frenz is a writer and university professor who is also a mother, a mentor and a friend. Drawn to a student in her memoir class, she happily, scarily, realizes that her feelings are returned. Ainsley Jacobs is twenty years old but mature enough to realize that not everything in life fits into a neatly prescribed box. A teacher-student relationship is only one of the obstacles that they will need to work through as they both try to define what they are to each other and what that means to their lives.
Real life problems don’t go away when people fall in love and, often, things get more complicated. I love how this love story emphasizes the everyday normality of love in one of its many forms. The author has written an f/f love story that shines from its casual, but honest, portrayal of the struggle we all have to find that elusive someone. There are issues here that are found in any relationship. A thirty year age difference, I don’t care who you are, is not a trivial thing. That is a huge gap in life experience and even expectations to deal with yet I love how Ainsley seems to bring the more mature voice to the relationship. That brings a wonderful twist to the younger/older love scenario. Any new love is uncertain so when you throw in family and friendship pressures, and a relationship that contravenes employment rules,you have some serious trouble to contend with. Throw in some best friends who are struggling themselves and you have a rich story that reads way too quickly.
Their story is honest and heartfelt while the steam between the two burns. This was a great Sunday afternoon read and I look forward to more!
~Diane
Meredith Frenz is a writer and university professor who is also a mother, a mentor and a friend. Drawn to a student in her memoir class, she happily, scarily, realizes that her feelings are returned. Ainsley Jacobs is twenty years old but mature enough to realize that not everything in life fits into a neatly prescribed box. A teacher-student relationship is only one of the obstacles that they will need to work through as they both try to define what they are to each other and what that means to their lives.
Real life problems don’t go away when people fall in love and, often, things get more complicated. I love how this love story emphasizes the everyday normality of love in one of its many forms. The author has written an f/f love story that shines from its casual, but honest, portrayal of the struggle we all have to find that elusive someone. There are issues here that are found in any relationship. A thirty year age difference, I don’t care who you are, is not a trivial thing. That is a huge gap in life experience and even expectations to deal with yet I love how Ainsley seems to bring the more mature voice to the relationship. That brings a wonderful twist to the younger/older love scenario. Any new love is uncertain so when you throw in family and friendship pressures, and a relationship that contravenes employment rules,you have some serious trouble to contend with. Throw in some best friends who are struggling themselves and you have a rich story that reads way too quickly.
Their story is honest and heartfelt while the steam between the two burns. This was a great Sunday afternoon read and I look forward to more!
~Diane
June 24, 2015
A different love story that is very normal….
Meredith Frenz is a writer and university professor who is also a mother, a mentor and a friend. Drawn to a student in her memoir class, she happily, scarily, realizes that her feelings are returned. Ainsley Jacobs is twenty years old but mature enough to realize that not everything in life fits into a neatly prescribed box. A teacher-student relationship is only one of the obstacles that they will need to work through as they both try to define what they are to each other and what that means to their lives.
Real life problems don’t go away when people fall in love and, often, things get more complicated. I love how this love story emphasizes the everyday normality of love in one of its many forms. The author has written an f/f love story that shines from its casual, but honest, portrayal of the struggle we all have to find that elusive someone. There are issues here that are found in any relationship. A thirty year age difference, I don’t care who you are, is not a trivial thing. That is a huge gap in life experience and even expectations to deal with yet I love how Ainsley seems to bring the more mature voice to the relationship. That brings a wonderful twist to the younger/older love scenario. Any new love is uncertain so when you throw in family and friendship pressures, and a relationship that contravenes employment rules,you have some serious trouble to contend with. Throw in some best friends who are struggling themselves and you have a rich story that reads way too quickly.
Their story is honest and heartfelt while the steam between the two burns. This was a great Sunday afternoon read and I look forward to more!
~Diane
Meredith Frenz is a writer and university professor who is also a mother, a mentor and a friend. Drawn to a student in her memoir class, she happily, scarily, realizes that her feelings are returned. Ainsley Jacobs is twenty years old but mature enough to realize that not everything in life fits into a neatly prescribed box. A teacher-student relationship is only one of the obstacles that they will need to work through as they both try to define what they are to each other and what that means to their lives.
Real life problems don’t go away when people fall in love and, often, things get more complicated. I love how this love story emphasizes the everyday normality of love in one of its many forms. The author has written an f/f love story that shines from its casual, but honest, portrayal of the struggle we all have to find that elusive someone. There are issues here that are found in any relationship. A thirty year age difference, I don’t care who you are, is not a trivial thing. That is a huge gap in life experience and even expectations to deal with yet I love how Ainsley seems to bring the more mature voice to the relationship. That brings a wonderful twist to the younger/older love scenario. Any new love is uncertain so when you throw in family and friendship pressures, and a relationship that contravenes employment rules,you have some serious trouble to contend with. Throw in some best friends who are struggling themselves and you have a rich story that reads way too quickly.
Their story is honest and heartfelt while the steam between the two burns. This was a great Sunday afternoon read and I look forward to more!
~Diane
May 21, 2015
Ainsley is bold, assertive and usually knows exactly how to accomplish her goals. However, she suddenly realizes that something quite new – is drawing her into uncharted territory. Quickly, a raging passion arises within her as she yearns to reach out for this new found desire…love!
Inside, Meredith’s heart is broken and hardened by years of pain due to a horrendous breakup. Her temperament comes off as standoffish toward some, yet, toward most, she boasts confidence.
A very interesting secret of Meredith’s is disclosed and leads to surprising circumstances.
“Memoir In The Making” is touching and the characters are dynamic. This story is not a simple “woman-meets-woman hook-up” formula. It’s a refreshing read with impressive depth, with just enough sizzle to make it exciting. Interactions with other people, and descriptions of scenes, etc. – truly contribute to this well rounded story.
While reading, you will experience an array of emotions. For example, I felt anger at a particular point – then passion and intrigue at other times. I had to remind myself that this was fiction. I found myself obsessed, thinking about the characters even while I wasn't reading.
Author, Adrian J. Smith – creates the points of view clearly, making the dialog, etc. flow easily and sets the pace to an unrushed, completely thought out plot.
To find out more, go get the book.
Thanks to Ena Amanda for inviting me to this tour – and for introducing the wonderful Author, Adrian J. Smith to me – and to you.
Inside, Meredith’s heart is broken and hardened by years of pain due to a horrendous breakup. Her temperament comes off as standoffish toward some, yet, toward most, she boasts confidence.
A very interesting secret of Meredith’s is disclosed and leads to surprising circumstances.
“Memoir In The Making” is touching and the characters are dynamic. This story is not a simple “woman-meets-woman hook-up” formula. It’s a refreshing read with impressive depth, with just enough sizzle to make it exciting. Interactions with other people, and descriptions of scenes, etc. – truly contribute to this well rounded story.
While reading, you will experience an array of emotions. For example, I felt anger at a particular point – then passion and intrigue at other times. I had to remind myself that this was fiction. I found myself obsessed, thinking about the characters even while I wasn't reading.
Author, Adrian J. Smith – creates the points of view clearly, making the dialog, etc. flow easily and sets the pace to an unrushed, completely thought out plot.
To find out more, go get the book.
Thanks to Ena Amanda for inviting me to this tour – and for introducing the wonderful Author, Adrian J. Smith to me – and to you.
April 28, 2015
Ainsley Jacobs is a twenty-year-old student with a bright future and the confidence to go after the things she wants. Living away from her family she has her best friend Adam by her side for support, guidance and all-important drinking buddy.
Meredith Frenz is a well-respected professor who teaches the Literary Memoir class. She is professional, dedicated and committed to her job and her students. As the new semester begins, however, so does a chain of events that rock her well-organised life and make her question her sanity.
Is it possible that there comes a time when age is just a number? When social pressure no longer brings into question the reason why two souls are drawn to each other? Is love worth risking everything for? This story makes the reader contemplate these questions and more. It’s impossible not to feel Ainsley and Meredith’s pain and anxiety, their passion and love, eventually hoping that they can make it through the turbulent maze.
On the surface “Memoir in the Making” would seem to be the typical “Cougar” love story between a young student and the older professor. But this is no typical romance. The characters are beautifully crafted and the depth of emotion bleeds from the page. Ms Smith writes with passion and angst in equal measure. The reader can’t help but be swept up in the growing sexual tension and the frustration that reverberates through every chapter.
Meredith Frenz is a well-respected professor who teaches the Literary Memoir class. She is professional, dedicated and committed to her job and her students. As the new semester begins, however, so does a chain of events that rock her well-organised life and make her question her sanity.
Is it possible that there comes a time when age is just a number? When social pressure no longer brings into question the reason why two souls are drawn to each other? Is love worth risking everything for? This story makes the reader contemplate these questions and more. It’s impossible not to feel Ainsley and Meredith’s pain and anxiety, their passion and love, eventually hoping that they can make it through the turbulent maze.
On the surface “Memoir in the Making” would seem to be the typical “Cougar” love story between a young student and the older professor. But this is no typical romance. The characters are beautifully crafted and the depth of emotion bleeds from the page. Ms Smith writes with passion and angst in equal measure. The reader can’t help but be swept up in the growing sexual tension and the frustration that reverberates through every chapter.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 42 reviews