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The Game #16
The Memories We Made: Remembering Us, Part I
The Game Series, #16 • Standalone Duet • Book 1 of 2 • Hurt/Comfort • Family • Dom/Dom • Opposites Attract • Angst
Ash and Nathan’s story begins on a blistering day in Philadelphia, with a rough-around-the-edges scaffolder yelling outside the office of a trauma specialist. Psychology major Nate decides to give this brute a piece of his mind.
The friends who told me to move on didn’t have a clue what they were talking about. Moving on wasn’t happening—and I knew that better than anyone after being trapped at the bottom of a heartbreak for an excruciating year now, where I had nothing but crippling anxiety and our memories to torture me. Everything we’d built, the family we’d created, the pictures, that damn National Parks passport, the ring on my finger, echoes of laughter and promises… I’d been there, watching you, being your test subject, as you’d become the rope rigger you were today. With amusement glinting in your eyes, you’d called me the OG bondage bunny. Me, the primal predator, who thought about chasing brats through the woods, your bondage bunny.
We’d given each other laugh lines. We’d loved so damn hard. We’d stood in front of our friends and family and vowed to fight for us forever.
Almost twenty years together. Four beautiful children.
What the hell happened, Nate?
You didn’t have to tell me. I already knew. I was a coward. I’d let my fears hold us back.
The question now was if I still stood a chance, because…frankly, living without you was impossible.
I’d do anything to get you back.
Ash and Nathan’s story begins on a blistering day in Philadelphia, with a rough-around-the-edges scaffolder yelling outside the office of a trauma specialist. Psychology major Nate decides to give this brute a piece of his mind.
The friends who told me to move on didn’t have a clue what they were talking about. Moving on wasn’t happening—and I knew that better than anyone after being trapped at the bottom of a heartbreak for an excruciating year now, where I had nothing but crippling anxiety and our memories to torture me. Everything we’d built, the family we’d created, the pictures, that damn National Parks passport, the ring on my finger, echoes of laughter and promises… I’d been there, watching you, being your test subject, as you’d become the rope rigger you were today. With amusement glinting in your eyes, you’d called me the OG bondage bunny. Me, the primal predator, who thought about chasing brats through the woods, your bondage bunny.
We’d given each other laugh lines. We’d loved so damn hard. We’d stood in front of our friends and family and vowed to fight for us forever.
Almost twenty years together. Four beautiful children.
What the hell happened, Nate?
You didn’t have to tell me. I already knew. I was a coward. I’d let my fears hold us back.
The question now was if I still stood a chance, because…frankly, living without you was impossible.
I’d do anything to get you back.
282 pages, Kindle Edition
Published March 4, 2026
About the author
Cara Dee
101 books4,177 followers
I'm often stoically silent or, if the topic interests me, a chronic rambler. In other words, I can discuss writing forever and ever. Fiction, in particular. The love story—while a huge draw and constantly present—is secondary for me, because there's so much more to writing romance fiction than just making two (or more) people fall in love and have hot sex. There's a world to build, characters to develop, interests to create, and a topic or two to research thoroughly. Every book is a challenge for me, an opportunity to learn something new, and a puzzle to piece together. I want my characters to come to life, and the only way I know to do that is to give them substance—passions, history, goals, quirks, and strong opinions—and to let them evolve. Additionally, I want my men and women to be relatable. That means allowing room for everyday problems and, for lack of a better word, flaws. My characters will never be perfect.
Wait…this was supposed to be about me, not my writing.
I'm a writey person who loves to write. Always wanderlusting, twitterpating, kinking, and geeking. There's time for hockey and cupcakes, too. But mostly, I just love to write.
I'm often stoically silent or, if the topic interests me, a chronic rambler. In other words, I can discuss writing forever and ever. Fiction, in particular. The love story—while a huge draw and constantly present—is secondary for me, because there's so much more to writing romance fiction than just making two (or more) people fall in love and have hot sex. There's a world to build, characters to develop, interests to create, and a topic or two to research thoroughly. Every book is a challenge for me, an opportunity to learn something new, and a puzzle to piece together. I want my characters to come to life, and the only way I know to do that is to give them substance—passions, history, goals, quirks, and strong opinions—and to let them evolve. Additionally, I want my men and women to be relatable. That means allowing room for everyday problems and, for lack of a better word, flaws. My characters will never be perfect.
Wait…this was supposed to be about me, not my writing.
I'm a writey person who loves to write. Always wanderlusting, twitterpating, kinking, and geeking. There's time for hockey and cupcakes, too. But mostly, I just love to write.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 92 reviews
March 9, 2026
Duplicate review as the previous edition is apparently no longer available for review!
I absolutely loved this but it's not a 5* read for me because - honestly - I'm not sure why it's been split into two books.
I know Cara talked about the length of it meaning she needed to split it, but this one's only around 280 odd pages (on my Kindle count anyway) and it only took me a couple of hours to read it (and yes I am a fast reader).
However, as this is all the lead up to the point at which we know Ash and Nathan from the previous The Game books, I can accept that it makes sense to split at this point and then the second half of the story be how they find their way back to each other.
It's beautifully written, it's an angsty journey because you know you're reading them falling in love and then getting the journey of how they came to be apart at the current state of play in this series.
It's heartbreaking because you can empathise and sympathise with both men, neither is right, neither is wrong, their relationship has hit an impasse that seems impossible to resolve and yet both men are still blindingly in love with each other.
There's some ideas of where the narrative might be going to go and I have to say I am definitely here for that and I am so looking forward to seeing just how Cara manages to guide these two back together and into their new look family future.
#ARC kindly received from the author via Give Me Books, I am voluntarily leaving a review
I absolutely loved this but it's not a 5* read for me because - honestly - I'm not sure why it's been split into two books.
I know Cara talked about the length of it meaning she needed to split it, but this one's only around 280 odd pages (on my Kindle count anyway) and it only took me a couple of hours to read it (and yes I am a fast reader).
However, as this is all the lead up to the point at which we know Ash and Nathan from the previous The Game books, I can accept that it makes sense to split at this point and then the second half of the story be how they find their way back to each other.
It's beautifully written, it's an angsty journey because you know you're reading them falling in love and then getting the journey of how they came to be apart at the current state of play in this series.
It's heartbreaking because you can empathise and sympathise with both men, neither is right, neither is wrong, their relationship has hit an impasse that seems impossible to resolve and yet both men are still blindingly in love with each other.
There's some ideas of where the narrative might be going to go and I have to say I am definitely here for that and I am so looking forward to seeing just how Cara manages to guide these two back together and into their new look family future.
#ARC kindly received from the author via Give Me Books, I am voluntarily leaving a review
March 13, 2026
3.5 stars
March 6, 2026
Omg Cara Dee!!! You have outdone yourself. Love and all its ecstatic highs and devastating debilitating lows across time. What a thing to read and witness. How beautiful is Ash and Nate’s story.
These two - I love them, how unbelievably young when they meet, how floored they are with each other tumbling head on into lust love and friendship. Building a life, growing together. But there are cracks in that foundation that never got addressed - cause life life is just moving and running and taking over as it does
I think what really got me is how relatable how believable their journey is. The author explores the nuances in a relationship so perfectly - no mater how strong the love is how it can bend and break.
It’s no secret that I love the Game Series and this is definitely a kinky romance with all the found family and kink exploration and dynamics we love and expect from the series. And like all the books in the series Cara Dee gives this one a fresh relationship to follow a new lens to look at love in all it’s forms with all it’s permissiblity.
There is no way encompass the experience of reading this into a right coherent review so I’m just going to touch on some more things I loved
Obviously Ash’s energy and big heart and dominance. Nate’s caring love and deep waters and courage. The family they built, those kids are precious. James and Jordan——- LOVE THEM. House McLean and seeing Noa and Cam and KC and Colt and Greer again, seeing their journey over time too. Kyle 🥰. The pacing is sublime, so much packed into this story and it flows seamlessly. I’ll say it again - OUTDONE YOURSELF.
I am dying to see the rest of the journey, I miss Nate and Ash and everyone else already 😭😭. This book is so emotional in such a real way, I knew it was going to hurt but not this much and I need some of that comfort that’s coming
This has turned into quite a ramble.
TLDR: highly recommend reading if you love hurt comfort love across time watching a relationship unfold and soulmates find each other, tonnes of pining, kink, white hot sexy times and found family, beautifully written, relationship in crisis, HEA coming next.
These two - I love them, how unbelievably young when they meet, how floored they are with each other tumbling head on into lust love and friendship. Building a life, growing together. But there are cracks in that foundation that never got addressed - cause life life is just moving and running and taking over as it does
I think what really got me is how relatable how believable their journey is. The author explores the nuances in a relationship so perfectly - no mater how strong the love is how it can bend and break.
It’s no secret that I love the Game Series and this is definitely a kinky romance with all the found family and kink exploration and dynamics we love and expect from the series. And like all the books in the series Cara Dee gives this one a fresh relationship to follow a new lens to look at love in all it’s forms with all it’s permissiblity.
There is no way encompass the experience of reading this into a right coherent review so I’m just going to touch on some more things I loved
Obviously Ash’s energy and big heart and dominance. Nate’s caring love and deep waters and courage. The family they built, those kids are precious. James and Jordan——- LOVE THEM. House McLean and seeing Noa and Cam and KC and Colt and Greer again, seeing their journey over time too. Kyle 🥰. The pacing is sublime, so much packed into this story and it flows seamlessly. I’ll say it again - OUTDONE YOURSELF.
I am dying to see the rest of the journey, I miss Nate and Ash and everyone else already 😭😭. This book is so emotional in such a real way, I knew it was going to hurt but not this much and I need some of that comfort that’s coming
This has turned into quite a ramble.
TLDR: highly recommend reading if you love hurt comfort love across time watching a relationship unfold and soulmates find each other, tonnes of pining, kink, white hot sexy times and found family, beautifully written, relationship in crisis, HEA coming next.
May 18, 2026
Two Knuckleheads
I don’t think I’ve read any of the previous books, but if they are utter heartbreakers like this one I’ll have to take a breather before I go there. Plus there is a sequel to this one.
I loved how Ash and Nate met when they were in their mid twenties and they weren’t slow in falling in love with each other.
They had to fight so long and hard since they met for the right to marry and adopt children, to build their own family. They succeeded so well in all that.
As soon as they started looking at joining the Kink community, I felt alarm bells ringing, no matter what rules they made between them regarding their different ‘kink needs’. Nate was more into that lifestyle than Ash, even though his interest didn’t involve physical intimacy with another, I didn’t like the way he badgered Ash into going when he didn’t want to. Ash’s kink did risk emotional and physical involvement. So Nate still went on his own, with Ash’s agreement. Of course trouble entered the marriage eventually. Over time Nate kept bringing up the subject, words were said that couldn’t be taken back, and it became painful listening to their talks when they both said the opposite of what they really wanted.
It became so frustrating to me once they started in on the separation talks. Nate in particular, because he refused to accept Ash’s misgivings about the possible risks with third party involvement. After two years living separately the divorce is now the next step and Nate is buckling under the strain of losing the man he loves forever. I find it hard to rouse a lot of sympathy for him.
Author Cara Dee has written a very gut punching, emotional story that was well worth the read despite my annoyances with the characters stubbornness. I can’t wait to start ‘The Time We Have Left” which continues their story, and I’m hoping they both take their heads out of the sand and put their family back together.
Cliffhanger🤬.
I don’t think I’ve read any of the previous books, but if they are utter heartbreakers like this one I’ll have to take a breather before I go there. Plus there is a sequel to this one.
I loved how Ash and Nate met when they were in their mid twenties and they weren’t slow in falling in love with each other.
They had to fight so long and hard since they met for the right to marry and adopt children, to build their own family. They succeeded so well in all that.
As soon as they started looking at joining the Kink community, I felt alarm bells ringing, no matter what rules they made between them regarding their different ‘kink needs’. Nate was more into that lifestyle than Ash, even though his interest didn’t involve physical intimacy with another, I didn’t like the way he badgered Ash into going when he didn’t want to. Ash’s kink did risk emotional and physical involvement. So Nate still went on his own, with Ash’s agreement. Of course trouble entered the marriage eventually. Over time Nate kept bringing up the subject, words were said that couldn’t be taken back, and it became painful listening to their talks when they both said the opposite of what they really wanted.
It became so frustrating to me once they started in on the separation talks. Nate in particular, because he refused to accept Ash’s misgivings about the possible risks with third party involvement. After two years living separately the divorce is now the next step and Nate is buckling under the strain of losing the man he loves forever. I find it hard to rouse a lot of sympathy for him.
Author Cara Dee has written a very gut punching, emotional story that was well worth the read despite my annoyances with the characters stubbornness. I can’t wait to start ‘The Time We Have Left” which continues their story, and I’m hoping they both take their heads out of the sand and put their family back together.
Cliffhanger🤬.
March 9, 2026
The Memories We made
The Game part 16
Cara Dee
Ash & Nate
Standalone Duet
Book 1 of 2
Dom /Dom
Hurt / Comfort
Family
Opposites Attract
Angst
Wow, so yeah this hurt, a lot.
Sheesh. This series has been so good. I just adore the found family and community this series has.
This was so good getting to know these two and how they started out, and everything they have been through.
In the other book we only got small bits of these two.
Sheesh, my heart. This was good but it hurt for sure.
These two needed way better communication.
I honestly can’t wait for the next book.
I need to see how they figure this out badly.
Fantastic book as usual by Cara Dee
Stunningly written, beautifully done.
The Game part 16
Cara Dee
Ash & Nate
Standalone Duet
Book 1 of 2
Dom /Dom
Hurt / Comfort
Family
Opposites Attract
Angst
Wow, so yeah this hurt, a lot.
Sheesh. This series has been so good. I just adore the found family and community this series has.
This was so good getting to know these two and how they started out, and everything they have been through.
In the other book we only got small bits of these two.
Sheesh, my heart. This was good but it hurt for sure.
These two needed way better communication.
I honestly can’t wait for the next book.
I need to see how they figure this out badly.
Fantastic book as usual by Cara Dee
Stunningly written, beautifully done.
March 5, 2026
Emotional, beautiful, heartbreaking. But hope at the end of the tunnel. I loved seeing all of Ash and Nathan’s memories and I can’t wait to see what they become in book 2!
March 6, 2026
I love Dee's The Game Series and one of the things that keeps me coming back is the anticipation that characters we get intriguing sketches of in other books would someday take center stage in a book of their own. Ash has been one of those characters particularly in a few of the more recent releases. In this first book in a planned duology, we get the twenty year love story of Ash and Nathan. The first meeting. The immediate connection. The marriage and becoming fathers. And... the exploration of kink. These two get on really well and compliment each other in all ways except they're both Doms and that they don't have common kinks. Nathan is one to explore his passion and over the years becomes an expert Rigger. Ash meanwhile has shoved his Daddy Dom into a corner and hasn't even tried to explore it. This is the crux of the problem with these two. Nathan wants his husband to be a full and fulfilled person especially because he believes wholeheartedly that he and Ash can tackle any possible complications or issues as they're super strong. Ash is the complete opposite and is so paralysed by possible complications that he's never willing to try and thinks it doesn't/hasn't had an effect on his relationship with Nathan but it has. Over the years this divide widens. Nathan and Ash as great fathers to their four adopted children and successful in their jobs but they are growing apart as a couple.
I found this book interesting in that the conflict is not a very common one in romance but is probably very common in life. I think we all to a large degree wall off parts of ourselves in order to go along even if we know we're not fulfilled. I loved that Nathan cared enough about Ash, their family and himself to want more for Ash. I do wish that we got more exploration of how Ash's unexpressed dominance made Nathan feel. Also, Ash's fear makes him afraid to really communicate with his husband and leads to prideful and rash decisions. It was a bit hinted at that Nathan didn't care to be put in a somewhat submissive role but I think the story could've benefitted from more examples of how and why Nathan felt so strongly in his position. It could seem that Nathan was nitpicking but that's only because that aspect, which again is the crux of their problems, wasn't explored or explained enough. When this book ends, the two have been together twenty years and are heading for divorce, which is sad because we've gone on this journey with them. I'm really looking forward to book 2 so that Ash can get his head out of his bum and see why Nathan was so adamant and then despondent when he got nothing from Ash for years. I want book 2 NOW because these two love and need each other. June feels so far away! Recommend.
I found this book interesting in that the conflict is not a very common one in romance but is probably very common in life. I think we all to a large degree wall off parts of ourselves in order to go along even if we know we're not fulfilled. I loved that Nathan cared enough about Ash, their family and himself to want more for Ash. I do wish that we got more exploration of how Ash's unexpressed dominance made Nathan feel. Also, Ash's fear makes him afraid to really communicate with his husband and leads to prideful and rash decisions. It was a bit hinted at that Nathan didn't care to be put in a somewhat submissive role but I think the story could've benefitted from more examples of how and why Nathan felt so strongly in his position. It could seem that Nathan was nitpicking but that's only because that aspect, which again is the crux of their problems, wasn't explored or explained enough. When this book ends, the two have been together twenty years and are heading for divorce, which is sad because we've gone on this journey with them. I'm really looking forward to book 2 so that Ash can get his head out of his bum and see why Nathan was so adamant and then despondent when he got nothing from Ash for years. I want book 2 NOW because these two love and need each other. June feels so far away! Recommend.
March 6, 2026
Unfortunately this wasn’t the book for me. Which is surprising since Cara is usually one of my go to writers. I found the story forced. That the problem between Ash and Nate was manufactured and fake. A problem that they both bought into just for the sake of drama.
Eh not all books resonate with everyone. Won’t stop me from picking up a different book from her in the future!
Eh not all books resonate with everyone. Won’t stop me from picking up a different book from her in the future!
March 4, 2026
As always, Cara Dee delivers a beautifully devastating story, one that breaks your heart and somehow makes you smile through the tears. She has this incredible ability to balance heavy, emotional moments with humor and lightness, and this book hits hard in all the right places.
The longing and pining between Ash and Nate is on another level. You feel every glance, every hesitation, every unspoken word. Cara writes in a way that makes you experience every tiny emotion alongside the characters and it’s immersive in the best (and most painful) way.
True to her style, she seamlessly threads connections to beloved characters from The Game Series while bringing in fresh perspectives that keep the story feeling new and exciting. I especially loved seeing familiar characters through new POVs, it adds so much depth to a world that already feels rich and lived in.
The Game Series has become one of my ultimate comfort series because every character feels like a friend. This book is no exception.
Highly recommend but just make sure you have tissues ready.
The longing and pining between Ash and Nate is on another level. You feel every glance, every hesitation, every unspoken word. Cara writes in a way that makes you experience every tiny emotion alongside the characters and it’s immersive in the best (and most painful) way.
True to her style, she seamlessly threads connections to beloved characters from The Game Series while bringing in fresh perspectives that keep the story feeling new and exciting. I especially loved seeing familiar characters through new POVs, it adds so much depth to a world that already feels rich and lived in.
The Game Series has become one of my ultimate comfort series because every character feels like a friend. This book is no exception.
Highly recommend but just make sure you have tissues ready.
March 10, 2026
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
The Memories We Made absolutely wrecked me in the best possible way. This book dives into their past, showing the moments that shaped them and the relationship that grew between them long before we ever met them in the present timeline where theh are divorced. Knowing where things eventually end up makes every moment hit harder, and the emotional weight of their history is impossible to ignore.
We’ve caught small glimpses of these characters in previous books, but never enough to really know them. Still, they definitely caught my attention back then, and I’ve been curious about them ever since. Getting to finally see their story,or at least the beginning of it , felt incredibly rewarding. Cara Dee took those brief appearances and turned the characgers into something so rich and emotional that you instantly understand why their story needed to be told.
Cara Dee has a way of writing relationships that feel incredibly real, and this one pulls you straight into the characters’ hearts. The vulnerability, the longing, the quiet moments of connection, it all builds into something that feels deeply personal. More than once I found myself completely caught up in the emotions, feeling every step of their journey with them.
And honestly… it’s almost diabolical that this is only part one. Ending it where she did and making us wait for the continuation should be illegal. The story is so gripping that the moment it ended I just wanted to immediately dive into part two.
This might honestly be Cara Dee’s best book yet. If I could give it more than five stars I absolutely would! And Infinity stars for the emotional damage and the brilliant storytelling.
The Memories We Made absolutely wrecked me in the best possible way. This book dives into their past, showing the moments that shaped them and the relationship that grew between them long before we ever met them in the present timeline where theh are divorced. Knowing where things eventually end up makes every moment hit harder, and the emotional weight of their history is impossible to ignore.
We’ve caught small glimpses of these characters in previous books, but never enough to really know them. Still, they definitely caught my attention back then, and I’ve been curious about them ever since. Getting to finally see their story,or at least the beginning of it , felt incredibly rewarding. Cara Dee took those brief appearances and turned the characgers into something so rich and emotional that you instantly understand why their story needed to be told.
Cara Dee has a way of writing relationships that feel incredibly real, and this one pulls you straight into the characters’ hearts. The vulnerability, the longing, the quiet moments of connection, it all builds into something that feels deeply personal. More than once I found myself completely caught up in the emotions, feeling every step of their journey with them.
And honestly… it’s almost diabolical that this is only part one. Ending it where she did and making us wait for the continuation should be illegal. The story is so gripping that the moment it ended I just wanted to immediately dive into part two.
This might honestly be Cara Dee’s best book yet. If I could give it more than five stars I absolutely would! And Infinity stars for the emotional damage and the brilliant storytelling.
June 14, 2026
Rating: 4
Steam: 2
PoV: dual, 1st person
Genre: contemporary romance, BDSM, MM
Tropes / tags: opposites attract, hurt / comfort, kink
I can't get enough of this community and found family, and Nathan and Ash's story was a highly anticipated read for me!
I didn't fully know what to expect with Nate and Ash, as they've mostly been background characters and talked about throughout the series, but I was very curious about them. This part of their duet was a bit of a fast forward of their relationship, from them meeting and falling for each other, instant connection, opposites attract and all. Them planning and building a life together, so sure that they'd found the love of their lives with each other. I adored seeing them together, even if I was a bit hesitant since I knew what was coming.
There were so many precious moments between these two, and I loved seeing their little family, their routines and traditions. They were both stubborn men, and when it came to kink they had different priorities. It was heartbreaking to see the cracks starting to form, it was obvious how much they loved each other and after seeing them building a life together… it definitely became an emotional read.
Nate and Ash were both loveable characters, and it didn't take me long to become invested in their story. I enjoyed seeing Ash's dominance and how soft he could be when it came to Nate, these two were completely gone for each other, and it made the conflict even more difficult to read. The pining and yearning from both of them were really intense at times, and there were moments where I wanted to yell at them or lock them in a room so they could talk everything through.
The Memories We Made was both a beautiful and heart wrenching romance, and I was honestly a little relieved that I waited to read this one until the second part of their story was on my Kindle. Ash and Nate were clearly meant to be together, and I can’t wait to see more of them!
Steam: 2
PoV: dual, 1st person
Genre: contemporary romance, BDSM, MM
Tropes / tags: opposites attract, hurt / comfort, kink
I can't get enough of this community and found family, and Nathan and Ash's story was a highly anticipated read for me!
I didn't fully know what to expect with Nate and Ash, as they've mostly been background characters and talked about throughout the series, but I was very curious about them. This part of their duet was a bit of a fast forward of their relationship, from them meeting and falling for each other, instant connection, opposites attract and all. Them planning and building a life together, so sure that they'd found the love of their lives with each other. I adored seeing them together, even if I was a bit hesitant since I knew what was coming.
There were so many precious moments between these two, and I loved seeing their little family, their routines and traditions. They were both stubborn men, and when it came to kink they had different priorities. It was heartbreaking to see the cracks starting to form, it was obvious how much they loved each other and after seeing them building a life together… it definitely became an emotional read.
Nate and Ash were both loveable characters, and it didn't take me long to become invested in their story. I enjoyed seeing Ash's dominance and how soft he could be when it came to Nate, these two were completely gone for each other, and it made the conflict even more difficult to read. The pining and yearning from both of them were really intense at times, and there were moments where I wanted to yell at them or lock them in a room so they could talk everything through.
The Memories We Made was both a beautiful and heart wrenching romance, and I was honestly a little relieved that I waited to read this one until the second part of their story was on my Kindle. Ash and Nate were clearly meant to be together, and I can’t wait to see more of them!
June 20, 2026
2.5 stars rounded up.
This read like an overview and it was hard to get emotionally attached to either character or understand detonating a 20-year marriage with four adopted kids over an unexplored kink.
If the writing had shown several flashback examples of Ash burying his Daddy Dom side, or illustrated how it was affecting his mental health, or the marriage, I would have been more on board emotionally speaking. This fell really flat, I felt like I was missing something the entire time.
This ends on a major cliffie, you need part two to get their HEA.
MC Names: Ash (26-46) & Nathan (23-43)
Add full tags later: KU, part of a series/background reading recommended, 1 of 2 duology, hurt/comfort, marriage-in-crisis, bondage, rope play, foster care background, Philadelphia, Boston, London, adoption (×4), cliffie
This read like an overview and it was hard to get emotionally attached to either character or understand detonating a 20-year marriage with four adopted kids over an unexplored kink.
If the writing had shown several flashback examples of Ash burying his Daddy Dom side, or illustrated how it was affecting his mental health, or the marriage, I would have been more on board emotionally speaking. This fell really flat, I felt like I was missing something the entire time.
This ends on a major cliffie, you need part two to get their HEA.
MC Names: Ash (26-46) & Nathan (23-43)
Add full tags later: KU, part of a series/background reading recommended, 1 of 2 duology, hurt/comfort, marriage-in-crisis, bondage, rope play, foster care background, Philadelphia, Boston, London, adoption (×4), cliffie
March 6, 2026
This book will gobble you up and in the best way possible.
I’m talking nonstop tears. There were so many moments where I just sat there thinking, why are they doing this to us?
The super cute way they meet. The author somehow managed to captures nearly two decades of love, pain, growth, and devotion into this 300 pages of book and it was chef’s kiss.
I loved each and every bit piece of Nathan and Ash story and before this Ash was my favorite. But after reading this Nathan, my love — you’re the one.
I feel like he’s so misunderstood by the others. He’s such a deep hearted person and his love for Ash goes beyond.
This is a full-on heartache romance and If you’re looking for something that will make you cry and whisper “why, why, why” to yourself at 2 a.m., this is it.
I’m definitely going to be thinking about this book nonstop until the next one comes up.
I’m talking nonstop tears. There were so many moments where I just sat there thinking, why are they doing this to us?
The super cute way they meet. The author somehow managed to captures nearly two decades of love, pain, growth, and devotion into this 300 pages of book and it was chef’s kiss.
I loved each and every bit piece of Nathan and Ash story and before this Ash was my favorite. But after reading this Nathan, my love — you’re the one.
I feel like he’s so misunderstood by the others. He’s such a deep hearted person and his love for Ash goes beyond.
This is a full-on heartache romance and If you’re looking for something that will make you cry and whisper “why, why, why” to yourself at 2 a.m., this is it.
I’m definitely going to be thinking about this book nonstop until the next one comes up.
March 8, 2026
So, I'm rating this book four stars for the character depth, pacing, the fact that it's well written, mostly kept my interest till the end, and that I was invested in the characters. The fact that Nate raised my blood pressure, well that's something else altogether.
I really tried to understand Nate's point of view, especially since he's a psychologist who, no doubt, places great value in knowing and exploring oneself. On the other hand, his whole insistence that Ash That man was perfectly fine being a husband and father and meeting up with kinky friends here and there. Whether or not that changed in the future could have been managed with a, 'Ok, if you ever feel like you want to blah blah, promise me you'll come to me and we'll have a conversation about it. Lasagna ok for dinner?" That's it!! Nate's insistence made no sense at all, was frankly weird, and then he had the gall to be upset when Ash finally started putting himself out there. Umm isn't that what YOU wanted?? Ash gave him multiple chances to just scrap the whole thing and for them to be together. The whole thing pissed me off. Now that I think about it, it makes me dislike Nate even more; the fact that he's a psychologist makes the whole thing even more egregious.
It's always weird when I get to a point in a book where I stop loving the relationship and I'm perfectly fine with one of the partners being with someone else, and that's how I feel here. Ash deserves better. Alas, he still loves Nate, so I guess I'll have to power through Book 2 where they find their way back to each other, with modifications. I guess we'll find out.
Either way, kudos for a book that had my emotions running high, even if it was me being pissed off at times lol. After about 60%, I stopped reading the italics at the end of each chapter. I was too annoyed.
I really tried to understand Nate's point of view, especially since he's a psychologist who, no doubt, places great value in knowing and exploring oneself. On the other hand, his whole insistence that Ash That man was perfectly fine being a husband and father and meeting up with kinky friends here and there. Whether or not that changed in the future could have been managed with a, 'Ok, if you ever feel like you want to blah blah, promise me you'll come to me and we'll have a conversation about it. Lasagna ok for dinner?" That's it!! Nate's insistence made no sense at all, was frankly weird, and then he had the gall to be upset when Ash finally started putting himself out there. Umm isn't that what YOU wanted?? Ash gave him multiple chances to just scrap the whole thing and for them to be together. The whole thing pissed me off. Now that I think about it, it makes me dislike Nate even more; the fact that he's a psychologist makes the whole thing even more egregious.
It's always weird when I get to a point in a book where I stop loving the relationship and I'm perfectly fine with one of the partners being with someone else, and that's how I feel here. Ash deserves better. Alas, he still loves Nate, so I guess I'll have to power through Book 2 where they find their way back to each other, with modifications. I guess we'll find out.
Either way, kudos for a book that had my emotions running high, even if it was me being pissed off at times lol. After about 60%, I stopped reading the italics at the end of each chapter. I was too annoyed.
Read
March 9, 2026I'm thinking it would have been a lot better to read this book right before the second one came out so I could read them both together. As it stands, I'm not really agreeing with what other reviewers are saying about this being so emotional and heartbreaking and etc. I am confused. It seems like Nathan caused all these problems because of the way the story has been written. Nathan says that Ash is repressing his daddy side, but we never see that on the page. Nathan says that Ash is going to lash out and pick at him and be mean to him because Ash is in pain, but we never see that on the page. The decision to separate was really quick and seemingly came from nowhere. And it didn't really make sense because we never saw any of these problems Nathan is saying there is on the page. Ash asks Nathan to get back together three times in this book, and Nathan says he can't because Ash is repressing himself. And yet in all the time they were apart, Ash still never tried to do what Nathan thinks he needs to do to be, I don't know, better than who he is now? There isn't really anything about kink in this book besides saying that Ash is a primal daddy or whatever and Nathan likes rope. So maybe it makes sense in the author's head, but it didn't come across on the page. I wasn't feeling it, and I don't know what was so heartbreaking or emotional about this when it doesn't really make sense. That's the difference between telling and showing. I think I'll read the next one and then maybe I can revise the opinion on this book but probably not, because she made the choice to split them up this way and I don't think it worked.
March 12, 2026
Overall, it was 3.5 stars. I rounded down because Nate’s viewpoint was illogical. He was pushing Ash too hard which caused their marriage to collapse. He said he was miserable, but whenever Ash made attempts to get back together Nate was jerk. Ash was quite happy living a vanilla life with his family and Nate forced him away. Nate was not a logical or likeable person in this book.
The last chapter seemed forced at the end. They were talking about Ash’s birthday and the Masquerade Ball like they were going to do something together even though they both had resigned themselves to the divorce. Too much contradiction and bitterness at the end, especially from Nate. He seemed so resentful, yet he was the one who caused the situation.
The last chapter seemed forced at the end. They were talking about Ash’s birthday and the Masquerade Ball like they were going to do something together even though they both had resigned themselves to the divorce. Too much contradiction and bitterness at the end, especially from Nate. He seemed so resentful, yet he was the one who caused the situation.
March 12, 2026
Omg i need part 2 or I may die 😭😭😭😭😭
March 6, 2026
My heart just hurts! Nate and Ash just were so beautiful and sweet until their problem grew and infected the rest of their life but their love never faded, never diminished. While they are fighting the good fight in politics and becoming dads, my heart soared and it hurt. This story starts off in the past from where the games are taking place pretty far, and we get to see Nate and Ash’s story start in Philly and take them to Boston before coming to the outskirts of DC, where we first met them. They are on the front lines of the equal rights fights and politics, to fight for their right to get married and have a family. Their struggles are many and great but through it all, they have each other. But these guys are two Tops, two Doms, and they don’t want a third, so trying to mesh their wants and dreams with their core kinks is hard, harder for Ash than for Nate but still hard all the same. Their journey is so beautiful, I absolutely loved it and felt their struggle so hard. These two are perfect for each other and I can’t wait to see what is in store for them and the healing they may find. I devoured this book, I could not put it down, stayed up til 4am to finish and then wrote my thoughts really quickly before finally succumbing to sleep, and honestly I’m still stuck with these guys, I’m not ready to move on. I want more (and can’t wait to get it). Wonderfully written, as always Cara Dee never disappoints me, I love the game series, I can’t get enough of Mclean House and all the brats and sadists and every other kinky member.
June 2, 2026
Left me wanting more, and not in a good way
It took me an inhuman amount of time to actually pick up this book, as I hold the opinion that Cara’s writing has declined heavily since Book 7 of this series. But Ash and Nathan peaked my interest - in the past, Cara has done angst and longing very well. You don’t have to look far in her vast portfolio of works to see that angst and action are something she has nearly always hit on the mark.
What I was expecting: a medium heat, high angst book that would set up the history and emotional turmoil that we would expect out of two soulmates who have been married for the better part of two decades. I was expecting to feel that sharp ouchy pain in my heart as I empathized with these two souls who want nothing more than to see the love of their life be happy, even at the cost of their marriage. I expected to leave this book with a clear understanding of “what’s next”, as a Part 1 in a book sequence is usually used to prime the reader and make them wonder what will happen in Part 2.
What I got: a low heat, nearly no angst… timeline? Essentially, I ended this book knowing the backstory that would be important for book 2, but it didn’t invest me in the characters at all. Ash starts out witty, funny, full of spunk and spark. But he’s lacking in yearning - yearning for children that would make their adoption battle that much more emotional, yearning for dreams, and eventually yearning for his husband. And Nathan had so much potential. He was a sass master, but in a way that utilized timing more than words. Yet by the end of the book, he was so damn exhausted in a way that would make nearly anyone resentful. And yet we see exactly two fights on page, and neither one of them was particularly invested. He just… shuts down, but readers aren’t told or shown the lead up that GOT him there. We go from “oh I’m so happy and in love” to “suddenly Nathan can’t fathom a world where Ash isn’t a Daddy Dom playing into his dynamic that he has verbally and mentally told the audience he sees as a non-essential lifestyle.” There are absolutely no indicators to show the audience that Ash is miserable with this issue, he himself is in such deep denial about it being an issue that he’s accidentally an unreliable narrator, and we get Nathan’s POV where he’s actually talking about his feelings and what’s going on outside of the kids so minimally that it’s really hard to nail down exactly *why* he’s so upset. Followed by half of a book that, for all intents and purposes, should be filled to the brim with gobsmackingly heartfelt angst. And instead it’s… what? A few snide comments, the two of them physically separated, a single weird moment, and that’s it?
Once again, as with many of her more recent books, this book felt rushed and incomplete. Not because it’s a part 1 and I’m missing the part 2 - but because the characters aren’t telling a story here. It’s more like… a bunch of really really vague journal entries every couple of years in the diary you forget you have but can’t seem to part with. Lacking a ton of context and even more clarity, disjointed and chronologically organized but contextually a mess, and with little to no reader priming leaving me with very little - if any - desire to read the second part of this story.
It took me an inhuman amount of time to actually pick up this book, as I hold the opinion that Cara’s writing has declined heavily since Book 7 of this series. But Ash and Nathan peaked my interest - in the past, Cara has done angst and longing very well. You don’t have to look far in her vast portfolio of works to see that angst and action are something she has nearly always hit on the mark.
What I was expecting: a medium heat, high angst book that would set up the history and emotional turmoil that we would expect out of two soulmates who have been married for the better part of two decades. I was expecting to feel that sharp ouchy pain in my heart as I empathized with these two souls who want nothing more than to see the love of their life be happy, even at the cost of their marriage. I expected to leave this book with a clear understanding of “what’s next”, as a Part 1 in a book sequence is usually used to prime the reader and make them wonder what will happen in Part 2.
What I got: a low heat, nearly no angst… timeline? Essentially, I ended this book knowing the backstory that would be important for book 2, but it didn’t invest me in the characters at all. Ash starts out witty, funny, full of spunk and spark. But he’s lacking in yearning - yearning for children that would make their adoption battle that much more emotional, yearning for dreams, and eventually yearning for his husband. And Nathan had so much potential. He was a sass master, but in a way that utilized timing more than words. Yet by the end of the book, he was so damn exhausted in a way that would make nearly anyone resentful. And yet we see exactly two fights on page, and neither one of them was particularly invested. He just… shuts down, but readers aren’t told or shown the lead up that GOT him there. We go from “oh I’m so happy and in love” to “suddenly Nathan can’t fathom a world where Ash isn’t a Daddy Dom playing into his dynamic that he has verbally and mentally told the audience he sees as a non-essential lifestyle.” There are absolutely no indicators to show the audience that Ash is miserable with this issue, he himself is in such deep denial about it being an issue that he’s accidentally an unreliable narrator, and we get Nathan’s POV where he’s actually talking about his feelings and what’s going on outside of the kids so minimally that it’s really hard to nail down exactly *why* he’s so upset. Followed by half of a book that, for all intents and purposes, should be filled to the brim with gobsmackingly heartfelt angst. And instead it’s… what? A few snide comments, the two of them physically separated, a single weird moment, and that’s it?
Once again, as with many of her more recent books, this book felt rushed and incomplete. Not because it’s a part 1 and I’m missing the part 2 - but because the characters aren’t telling a story here. It’s more like… a bunch of really really vague journal entries every couple of years in the diary you forget you have but can’t seem to part with. Lacking a ton of context and even more clarity, disjointed and chronologically organized but contextually a mess, and with little to no reader priming leaving me with very little - if any - desire to read the second part of this story.
May 26, 2026
The Memories of is the first in Ash & Nathan’s story and part of the Game Series
This is your vibe if you like
Hurt/comfort
Opposites attract
Family/marriage
Dom/Dom
I’ve been hanging for Ash & Nathan more and more with every book because we get small pieces of other couples/dynamics throughout each book. But I wasn’t prepared for how much this book would suck me in.
Right from the beginning of their relationship I was hooked on needing to know how they got this place.
Now I have the agonising wait til the next book comes out…ok I might be a little dramatic there. But I can see where their story is headed and I cannot wait for it!
This is your vibe if you like
Hurt/comfort
Opposites attract
Family/marriage
Dom/Dom
I’ve been hanging for Ash & Nathan more and more with every book because we get small pieces of other couples/dynamics throughout each book. But I wasn’t prepared for how much this book would suck me in.
Right from the beginning of their relationship I was hooked on needing to know how they got this place.
Now I have the agonising wait til the next book comes out…ok I might be a little dramatic there. But I can see where their story is headed and I cannot wait for it!
March 6, 2026
How can a read be so beautiful and still crack my heart? When this author writes it, that’s how..
They had everything, well almost. The wanted children and it was a difficult road. But they had them, four children! They wanted to explore their kinks together.
Fuck, stop pushing, please!
I’m gonna cry and won’t recover until book two of this duet is out!!
They had everything, well almost. The wanted children and it was a difficult road. But they had them, four children! They wanted to explore their kinks together.
Fuck, stop pushing, please!
I’m gonna cry and won’t recover until book two of this duet is out!!
June 11, 2026
I have no words. I felt in love with Ash and Nate ~ see them grow and being happy. I felt that break up through my bones 🥹
I wanted them to be happy SO much.
I understood Ash’s pain, being put in a corner because he feared he might lose the love of his life. 🥹🥹🥹
I am jumping on part 2 because my heart can’t stand it.
I love this serie so much and Cara’s writing SO SO MUCH !
I wanted them to be happy SO much.
I understood Ash’s pain, being put in a corner because he feared he might lose the love of his life. 🥹🥹🥹
I am jumping on part 2 because my heart can’t stand it.
I love this serie so much and Cara’s writing SO SO MUCH !
Did Not Finish
June 5, 2026This would’ve been maybe 1.5 stars if I finished. The drama is just so clearly manufactured for no reason. Like there are so many clear options for handling Nate’s worry? And he’s a therapist and never thought they should try a couples or sex therapist before divorce?
I usually love this author’s books, but this one just felt really strange.
I usually love this author’s books, but this one just felt really strange.
June 20, 2026
3⭐️
The only reason this book lands at three stars for me is my love for this author and this series. Otherwise, this book had me wanting to throw my Kindle across the room more than once.
At the risk of sounding harsh, I spent most of this book feeling like it should have been titled The Consequences of Nate's Actions.
My biggest frustration was Nate's repeated decision to make choices for Ash while convincing himself he was acting in Ash's best interest. Throughout the story, Ash repeatedly states what he wants. He wants his marriage. He wants their family. He wants Nate. Time and time again, he makes it clear that if given the choice, those things matter more to him than pursuing a specific dynamic or kink. Whether readers agree with that choice isn't really the point. The point is that Ash is making that choice for himself.
And yet Nate continually refuses to believe him.
For a series that spends so much time discussing kink, boundaries, consent, wants, needs, and limits, I found it incredibly frustrating that Nate repeatedly dismissed Ash's own words about what he wanted for his life. Instead, Nate decided he knew better and proceeded to blow up their marriage and family based on what he believed Ash should want rather than what Ash was actually saying, time and time again.
What made this even harder for me to accept was the scale of the consequences compared to the actual conflict. This isn't a marriage ending because of infidelity, abuse, dishonesty, addiction, or a complete breakdown of love and respect. In fact, one of the most frustrating aspects of the story is that both men still very clearly love each other. Instead, Nate is willing to dismantle a marriage, split up a family, and put their children through the fallout because he has convinced himself that Ash is denying himself something essential. The problem is that Ash repeatedly tells him otherwise. Again and again, Ash says he wants his marriage, his family, and his husband. Whether that choice is ultimately right or wrong isn't the issue. It's still Ash's choice to make.
My frustration only grew because Nate is a psychologist. You're telling me that a trained psychologist watched his marriage deteriorate for years, recognized the same conflict over and over again, and never seriously pursued therapy or counseling? Even their parents eventually suggest talking to someone, yet it never seems to occur to Nate that there might be options between "stay miserable forever" and "end my marriage"?
As a result, Nate's internal monologue became increasingly repetitive. Every time I thought we were making progress, he circled back to the same assumptions, fears, and justifications. Instead of feeling sympathy, I often found myself wanting to shake him and tell him to listen to the words coming out of Ash's mouth.
Then comes the irony that pushed my frustration over the edge.
For most of the book, Nate is the one saying no. Nate is the one pushing for separation. Nate is the one refusing to accept Ash's stated choices. Yet by the end, Nate begins lamenting that Ash isn't fighting for the marriage. I honestly wanted to yell at my Kindle!!
Because from my perspective, Ash has been fighting. Ash is the one repeatedly asking for the marriage. Ash is the one asking Nate if he can come home. Ash is the one insisting that he wants their family intact. Meanwhile, Nate is the one saying no.
Watching Nate accuse Ash of not fighting hard enough after repeatedly rejecting Ash's efforts to save the relationship felt incredibly unfair and became one of the most frustrating aspects of the entire book.
Then, the moment Nate begins to see signs that Ash might eventually move forward with his life, he suddenly becomes angry, hurt, and resentful.
At that point, again all I could think was: these are the consequences of your actions!!
And yet... I still couldn't stop reading. A huge part of that comes down to my love for this series and the community that has been built throughout it. Seeing familiar faces like Noa, KC, and the members of McLean House reminded me why I fell in love with this world in the first place. The friendships, chosen family dynamics, support systems, and sense of community often became the highlight of the book for me. Every time one of those characters appeared on the page, it felt like a breath of fresh air.
This book ends very much as the first half of a larger story rather than a complete one. There are still conversations left to have, wounds left to unpack, and emotional growth that desperately needs to happen. Despite spending most of this book frustrated, I will absolutely be reading the next installment.
Partly because I trust this author.
Partly because I love this community.
And partly out of spite, because after spending an entire book arguing with Nate, I need to see that he finally learns the lesson this story has been trying to teach him.
And when the next book proves that Ash is happier embracing this side of himself, that's fine. But I hope the story doesn't confuse Nate being right about the outcome with being right about the decision.
Because even if Ash ultimately thrives in a dynamic he spent years denying himself, that doesn't erase the fact that Nate made the choice to end their marriage over that. It doesn't erase the years of hurt, the damage done to their relationship, or the pain inflicted on their family in the process.
Being right that something matters to your partner is not the same thing as being right to decide what your partner should do about it.
That's the distinction I spent this entire book struggling with, and it's the reason I'm so invested in seeing how this story ultimately resolves.
The only reason this book lands at three stars for me is my love for this author and this series. Otherwise, this book had me wanting to throw my Kindle across the room more than once.
At the risk of sounding harsh, I spent most of this book feeling like it should have been titled The Consequences of Nate's Actions.
My biggest frustration was Nate's repeated decision to make choices for Ash while convincing himself he was acting in Ash's best interest. Throughout the story, Ash repeatedly states what he wants. He wants his marriage. He wants their family. He wants Nate. Time and time again, he makes it clear that if given the choice, those things matter more to him than pursuing a specific dynamic or kink. Whether readers agree with that choice isn't really the point. The point is that Ash is making that choice for himself.
And yet Nate continually refuses to believe him.
For a series that spends so much time discussing kink, boundaries, consent, wants, needs, and limits, I found it incredibly frustrating that Nate repeatedly dismissed Ash's own words about what he wanted for his life. Instead, Nate decided he knew better and proceeded to blow up their marriage and family based on what he believed Ash should want rather than what Ash was actually saying, time and time again.
What made this even harder for me to accept was the scale of the consequences compared to the actual conflict. This isn't a marriage ending because of infidelity, abuse, dishonesty, addiction, or a complete breakdown of love and respect. In fact, one of the most frustrating aspects of the story is that both men still very clearly love each other. Instead, Nate is willing to dismantle a marriage, split up a family, and put their children through the fallout because he has convinced himself that Ash is denying himself something essential. The problem is that Ash repeatedly tells him otherwise. Again and again, Ash says he wants his marriage, his family, and his husband. Whether that choice is ultimately right or wrong isn't the issue. It's still Ash's choice to make.
My frustration only grew because Nate is a psychologist. You're telling me that a trained psychologist watched his marriage deteriorate for years, recognized the same conflict over and over again, and never seriously pursued therapy or counseling? Even their parents eventually suggest talking to someone, yet it never seems to occur to Nate that there might be options between "stay miserable forever" and "end my marriage"?
As a result, Nate's internal monologue became increasingly repetitive. Every time I thought we were making progress, he circled back to the same assumptions, fears, and justifications. Instead of feeling sympathy, I often found myself wanting to shake him and tell him to listen to the words coming out of Ash's mouth.
Then comes the irony that pushed my frustration over the edge.
For most of the book, Nate is the one saying no. Nate is the one pushing for separation. Nate is the one refusing to accept Ash's stated choices. Yet by the end, Nate begins lamenting that Ash isn't fighting for the marriage. I honestly wanted to yell at my Kindle!!
Because from my perspective, Ash has been fighting. Ash is the one repeatedly asking for the marriage. Ash is the one asking Nate if he can come home. Ash is the one insisting that he wants their family intact. Meanwhile, Nate is the one saying no.
Watching Nate accuse Ash of not fighting hard enough after repeatedly rejecting Ash's efforts to save the relationship felt incredibly unfair and became one of the most frustrating aspects of the entire book.
Then, the moment Nate begins to see signs that Ash might eventually move forward with his life, he suddenly becomes angry, hurt, and resentful.
At that point, again all I could think was: these are the consequences of your actions!!
And yet... I still couldn't stop reading. A huge part of that comes down to my love for this series and the community that has been built throughout it. Seeing familiar faces like Noa, KC, and the members of McLean House reminded me why I fell in love with this world in the first place. The friendships, chosen family dynamics, support systems, and sense of community often became the highlight of the book for me. Every time one of those characters appeared on the page, it felt like a breath of fresh air.
This book ends very much as the first half of a larger story rather than a complete one. There are still conversations left to have, wounds left to unpack, and emotional growth that desperately needs to happen. Despite spending most of this book frustrated, I will absolutely be reading the next installment.
Partly because I trust this author.
Partly because I love this community.
And partly out of spite, because after spending an entire book arguing with Nate, I need to see that he finally learns the lesson this story has been trying to teach him.
And when the next book proves that Ash is happier embracing this side of himself, that's fine. But I hope the story doesn't confuse Nate being right about the outcome with being right about the decision.
Because even if Ash ultimately thrives in a dynamic he spent years denying himself, that doesn't erase the fact that Nate made the choice to end their marriage over that. It doesn't erase the years of hurt, the damage done to their relationship, or the pain inflicted on their family in the process.
Being right that something matters to your partner is not the same thing as being right to decide what your partner should do about it.
That's the distinction I spent this entire book struggling with, and it's the reason I'm so invested in seeing how this story ultimately resolves.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
March 6, 2026
4.25 Stars!
Nathan and Ash's story is split into two books, this being the first part. You could read this as a standalone since it really focuses on Nathan and Ash's relationship from its start to its current state. If you're a fan of the author, you have probably been waiting for this story; many in the community believe these two belong together and occasionally mention it. The story spans 20 years, so be ready for time jumps as we get to see them at the various stages of their relationship.
I won't say that this was an easy story to read, as it lays out years of building and breaking down a relationship. I loved how early on they were good about communicating and working together, but it was easy to see where the cracks were probably going to form. Their love is so strong, and it was hard to watch their relationship suffer and start falling apart. They have been through so much and have always been each other's strength, but this lingering, long, festering denial is metaphorically killing them both. I didn't find myself disliking either Nathan or Ash; instead hoping that they find their way forward together in the next book. I was equally mad at both of them at times for the lack of communication when they could have used it the most. They lived busy lives with their family, and they were great parents, but they needed to embrace and find ways to be whole. Like many characters in this series, finding the way to fulfill their wants and needs isn't always easy or straightforward, and they were fracturing instead of working together like they had for so long. It was hard to see a relationship so beautiful and strong fall apart.
I can't say that I left the book with hope, but based on past reads from the author, I have no doubt that she will find a way for these two to deal with their roadblocks and be stronger together than ever. If ever two people deserved a happily ever after, it's Nate and Ash. I can't wait for their second book and the rest of their story.
*Copy provided to Bayou Book Junkie for my reading pleasure. A review wasn't a requirement.*
Nathan and Ash's story is split into two books, this being the first part. You could read this as a standalone since it really focuses on Nathan and Ash's relationship from its start to its current state. If you're a fan of the author, you have probably been waiting for this story; many in the community believe these two belong together and occasionally mention it. The story spans 20 years, so be ready for time jumps as we get to see them at the various stages of their relationship.
I won't say that this was an easy story to read, as it lays out years of building and breaking down a relationship. I loved how early on they were good about communicating and working together, but it was easy to see where the cracks were probably going to form. Their love is so strong, and it was hard to watch their relationship suffer and start falling apart. They have been through so much and have always been each other's strength, but this lingering, long, festering denial is metaphorically killing them both. I didn't find myself disliking either Nathan or Ash; instead hoping that they find their way forward together in the next book. I was equally mad at both of them at times for the lack of communication when they could have used it the most. They lived busy lives with their family, and they were great parents, but they needed to embrace and find ways to be whole. Like many characters in this series, finding the way to fulfill their wants and needs isn't always easy or straightforward, and they were fracturing instead of working together like they had for so long. It was hard to see a relationship so beautiful and strong fall apart.
I can't say that I left the book with hope, but based on past reads from the author, I have no doubt that she will find a way for these two to deal with their roadblocks and be stronger together than ever. If ever two people deserved a happily ever after, it's Nate and Ash. I can't wait for their second book and the rest of their story.
*Copy provided to Bayou Book Junkie for my reading pleasure. A review wasn't a requirement.*
March 24, 2026
MY FREAKING HEART
The only thing not okay with this book is the fact that we have to wait until June for part two because what do you mean you’re just going to leave me like this???
This book was all I could think about last night.
This story is so beautiful and so painful at the same time. It spans almost 20 years of Nate and Ash. We see everything. How they fall in love, the life they build together, their marriage, their kids, the struggles, the doubts, the slow shift in their dynamic, and the way they start exploring kink.
And somehow, even knowing where this was going because of the other books in the series…
It still broke my heart.
Watching them love each other so deeply and still not make it work? That hurt.
Like actually hurt.
You can feel how much they love each other in every stage of their lives, and that is what makes everything hit ten times harder when things start falling apart.
I had moments where I genuinely wanted to cry, especially when Nathan’s memos showed up. That man loves Ash so much and you feel it in your chest. And Ash loves Nate so much but is so scared!
And the worst part?
They are not together at the end.
Which again, we knew… but knowing does NOT make it easier.
I need part two immediately because I need to see how Cara is going to bring them back to each other. I need to see how their relationship evolves, what they become, and what kind of dynamic they are going to settle into.
Because at this point?
I will take anything. Healing. Chaos. Maybe even something unconventional. Just give them their way back to each other.
This was emotional, layered, intimate, and painfully real.
And I am not okay.
The only thing not okay with this book is the fact that we have to wait until June for part two because what do you mean you’re just going to leave me like this???
This book was all I could think about last night.
This story is so beautiful and so painful at the same time. It spans almost 20 years of Nate and Ash. We see everything. How they fall in love, the life they build together, their marriage, their kids, the struggles, the doubts, the slow shift in their dynamic, and the way they start exploring kink.
And somehow, even knowing where this was going because of the other books in the series…
It still broke my heart.
Watching them love each other so deeply and still not make it work? That hurt.
Like actually hurt.
You can feel how much they love each other in every stage of their lives, and that is what makes everything hit ten times harder when things start falling apart.
I had moments where I genuinely wanted to cry, especially when Nathan’s memos showed up. That man loves Ash so much and you feel it in your chest. And Ash loves Nate so much but is so scared!
And the worst part?
They are not together at the end.
Which again, we knew… but knowing does NOT make it easier.
I need part two immediately because I need to see how Cara is going to bring them back to each other. I need to see how their relationship evolves, what they become, and what kind of dynamic they are going to settle into.
Because at this point?
I will take anything. Healing. Chaos. Maybe even something unconventional. Just give them their way back to each other.
This was emotional, layered, intimate, and painfully real.
And I am not okay.
March 5, 2026
**I received an electronic ARC via BookSprout.**
Cara Dee returns to The Game universe with Part I of Nathan and Ash's story, The Memories We Made: Remembering Us. This is book 16 in the series and would be best enjoyed with prior reading. This portion of Nathan and Ash's story tells readers the story of how the pair got to the point where we know them to be in the present. The story is told in vignette-type moments of peering into their shared lives at various points along the timeline leading to current day.
This story is the hurt portion of the hurt-comfort. I wouldn't blame anyone at all for waiting for both parts to be available since this portion is emotionally heavy as it navigates Nathan and Ash's separation. It is evident to the reader that these men belong together, but are being hardheaded on both sides. There is a lot of fear on Ash's part with navigating newness and risking his relationship with Nathan. Meanwhile, Nathan doesn't know how to ensure that Ash gets the satisfaction he needs without pushing for change. It's the strangest of Catch-22s with an obvious solution. It simply isn't easy. Nathan and Ash also navigate co-parenting as they attempt to figure out their places in each others' lives.
There is no satisfying ending here. Part II will undoubtedly supply that. But this book provides all the background and set up required to make Nathan and Ash's story not only make sense, but also resonant emotionally.
I will certainly be sat and eagerly awaiting Part II.
Cara Dee returns to The Game universe with Part I of Nathan and Ash's story, The Memories We Made: Remembering Us. This is book 16 in the series and would be best enjoyed with prior reading. This portion of Nathan and Ash's story tells readers the story of how the pair got to the point where we know them to be in the present. The story is told in vignette-type moments of peering into their shared lives at various points along the timeline leading to current day.
This story is the hurt portion of the hurt-comfort. I wouldn't blame anyone at all for waiting for both parts to be available since this portion is emotionally heavy as it navigates Nathan and Ash's separation. It is evident to the reader that these men belong together, but are being hardheaded on both sides. There is a lot of fear on Ash's part with navigating newness and risking his relationship with Nathan. Meanwhile, Nathan doesn't know how to ensure that Ash gets the satisfaction he needs without pushing for change. It's the strangest of Catch-22s with an obvious solution. It simply isn't easy. Nathan and Ash also navigate co-parenting as they attempt to figure out their places in each others' lives.
There is no satisfying ending here. Part II will undoubtedly supply that. But this book provides all the background and set up required to make Nathan and Ash's story not only make sense, but also resonant emotionally.
I will certainly be sat and eagerly awaiting Part II.
March 11, 2026
This arc was provided to me free of charge in return for an honest review. These opinions are my own.
On the surface this isn't the sort of book I'd normally gravitate towards. I am not generally someone who likes/wants to read about the intricacies or a marriage and raising children. That said, I have read Cara Dee's work many times in the past. I like her character work a lot and I'm a big fan of this series.
Like with the previous books, I think she created a great couple. I like that we get to know them as individuals and together. While I don't particularly care about marriage troubles, I cared about theirs. They were a compelling pair and their struggles were heartbreaking. Particularly as they're trying to figure things out. I do appreciate that it wasn't all sadness though. It could've been easy to make this a very depressing book.
My one grievance, and it's a bit of a big one, is that it feels incomplete. I acknowledge that it's largely in part because it is a duology. However, the way that it's written as a countdown implies a lead up to something we don't see. Also, because of that approach, it feels less like a cliffhanger and like more an abrupt stop. This particular choice might work for some people but I didn't particularly like it. That said - I will absolutely be back to see where it goes because I do want to see how it plays out. So I suppose if that was the goal Cara Dee succeeded.
On the surface this isn't the sort of book I'd normally gravitate towards. I am not generally someone who likes/wants to read about the intricacies or a marriage and raising children. That said, I have read Cara Dee's work many times in the past. I like her character work a lot and I'm a big fan of this series.
Like with the previous books, I think she created a great couple. I like that we get to know them as individuals and together. While I don't particularly care about marriage troubles, I cared about theirs. They were a compelling pair and their struggles were heartbreaking. Particularly as they're trying to figure things out. I do appreciate that it wasn't all sadness though. It could've been easy to make this a very depressing book.
My one grievance, and it's a bit of a big one, is that it feels incomplete. I acknowledge that it's largely in part because it is a duology. However, the way that it's written as a countdown implies a lead up to something we don't see. Also, because of that approach, it feels less like a cliffhanger and like more an abrupt stop. This particular choice might work for some people but I didn't particularly like it. That said - I will absolutely be back to see where it goes because I do want to see how it plays out. So I suppose if that was the goal Cara Dee succeeded.
March 12, 2026
Ash and Nathan’s story begins on a scorching day in Philadelphia, when a rough‑edged scaffolder shouting outside a trauma specialist’s office pushes psychology major Nate to confront him. From there, Ash’s perspective reveals the depth of his heartbreak: after nearly twenty years together, four children, and a lifetime of shared memories, he’s been drowning in anxiety and grief since their split. He blames himself for letting fear sabotage their marriage, and living without Nate has become unbearable. Now, desperate and determined, Ash is ready to fight for the man he still loves — hoping it isn’t too late to win him back.
This story was absolutely packed with emotion. The deep love between Ash and Nathan is undeniable, and that’s what makes the heartbreak hit even harder — because this isn’t a story with a happy ending, at least not yet. Their determination to be good parents, to protect their children from the fallout of their broken relationship, was powerful and beautifully written. I loved how clearly their feelings came through on the page. Every emotion — grief, longing, regret, love — was so easy to feel and understand. The writing made their pain real, and their devotion to their family even more moving. It’s a heartbreaking story, but one that completely pulled me in. I can’t wait to read the next book in this duology and see where their journey leads. This was an MM story with mature content and BDSM-like dynamics.
This story was absolutely packed with emotion. The deep love between Ash and Nathan is undeniable, and that’s what makes the heartbreak hit even harder — because this isn’t a story with a happy ending, at least not yet. Their determination to be good parents, to protect their children from the fallout of their broken relationship, was powerful and beautifully written. I loved how clearly their feelings came through on the page. Every emotion — grief, longing, regret, love — was so easy to feel and understand. The writing made their pain real, and their devotion to their family even more moving. It’s a heartbreaking story, but one that completely pulled me in. I can’t wait to read the next book in this duology and see where their journey leads. This was an MM story with mature content and BDSM-like dynamics.
March 8, 2026
Nearly all of the books I choose to read have happy endings, and while I know ultimately Nate and Ash will get theirs, Part I of their story is precisely why second chance is one of my favorite tropes.
I was giddy and smitten alongside Ash after his first encounter with Nate. I swooned with Nate when he realized how far Ash would go just to spend an evening together (20 pizzas!). I marched right next to them in their fight for equality, and cried (then celebrated!) with them through all the heartbreak that led them to fatherhood. I watched them as new fathers..the perfect team. I watched their kids grow up. I saw firsthand, over time, as a small crack in their foundation slowly became a chasm neither one knew how to repair. I was there for every part of their relationship and how it shaped them into who they are today.
I prefer to read books that I know will have a happy ending. And while technically The Memories We Made did not end with an HEA, I already know that because Cara took us on this journey of their lives together, the happy ending will feel so much sweeter and so much more meaningful after witnessing the beginning and (almost) ending of their love story. I cannot wait until these two find their way back to each other for good.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I was giddy and smitten alongside Ash after his first encounter with Nate. I swooned with Nate when he realized how far Ash would go just to spend an evening together (20 pizzas!). I marched right next to them in their fight for equality, and cried (then celebrated!) with them through all the heartbreak that led them to fatherhood. I watched them as new fathers..the perfect team. I watched their kids grow up. I saw firsthand, over time, as a small crack in their foundation slowly became a chasm neither one knew how to repair. I was there for every part of their relationship and how it shaped them into who they are today.
I prefer to read books that I know will have a happy ending. And while technically The Memories We Made did not end with an HEA, I already know that because Cara took us on this journey of their lives together, the happy ending will feel so much sweeter and so much more meaningful after witnessing the beginning and (almost) ending of their love story. I cannot wait until these two find their way back to each other for good.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
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