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Maybe... #3
Maybe Forever
Is the honeymoon over…?
Now married with two children, Laney and Mads are finding their life together isn’t as simple as it used to be. While Laney struggles with motherhood, Mads is so focused on chasing success that he loses sight of promises he’s made.
Better apart…?
When frustration gets the better of her, Laney takes the kids and goes to the US, hoping to find solace with her aunt Cecily, a former school teacher who now teaches yoga and meditation in Florida.
Will Laney and Mads find a way back to one another…or is it too late?
Now married with two children, Laney and Mads are finding their life together isn’t as simple as it used to be. While Laney struggles with motherhood, Mads is so focused on chasing success that he loses sight of promises he’s made.
Better apart…?
When frustration gets the better of her, Laney takes the kids and goes to the US, hoping to find solace with her aunt Cecily, a former school teacher who now teaches yoga and meditation in Florida.
Will Laney and Mads find a way back to one another…or is it too late?
175 pages, Kindle Edition
First published May 1, 2015
4 people are currently reading
1103 people want to read
About the author
Kim Golden
23 books268 followersI grew up in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, and spent most of my summers in Smithfield, Virginia.
I first realized I wanted to be a writer while attending the George Washington Carver High School for Engineering & Science – yes, there was a time when I wanted to be an architect, at least I thought I did. Then, one day, I couldn't take the boredom of another chemistry class and decided to write a novel. It was passed around to all of my classmates, who loved it. I did this several times and realized I had zero talent in math, science, or architecture. I was much better at writing, so I focused on that when I went to university.
In 1995, I chucked living in the US for the good life in Sweden with my Swedish husband.
I first realized I wanted to be a writer while attending the George Washington Carver High School for Engineering & Science – yes, there was a time when I wanted to be an architect, at least I thought I did. Then, one day, I couldn't take the boredom of another chemistry class and decided to write a novel. It was passed around to all of my classmates, who loved it. I did this several times and realized I had zero talent in math, science, or architecture. I was much better at writing, so I focused on that when I went to university.
In 1995, I chucked living in the US for the good life in Sweden with my Swedish husband.
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Displaying 1 - 27 of 27 reviews
May 5, 2015
**I received an ARC from the author in exchange for an honest review.**
The long awaited sequel to Maybe Baby. In the first book we met Laney who desperately wanted a child. Preferably with her then live in boyfriend Niklas, but when he decided that he wasn’t in the market for a second round of fatherhood (he had 2 children with his ex-wife), Laney decided she would settle for a sperm donor. The natural way. Enters Mads. Who was supposed to be just her sperm donor but they fell in love and had an affair. Laney left Niklas for Mads, got pregnant and married the love of her life. Yay. Ends book 1.
In Maybe forever we get to know what happens after the honeymoon is over. It’s 5 years later and Mads and Laney have 2 daughters. Mads is doing extremely well with his furniture company, working overtime and Laney is on maternity leave taking care of the kids. Laney is feeling overwhelmed and in desperate need of a break. She misses her man, whose focus is seemingly solely on his booming business and when he's finally home, on his daughters. Not so much on his wife. And it seems like everyone notice that all is not well with Laney but Mads.
Throw in insecurities issues from both spouses, poor communication, temptation at work (yup, there is always that hussy who wants who’s not hers) and all you get is: trouble in paradise.
It is a romance, so there will be a HEA but only after Laney takes drastic measures and Mads stops being so self involved and does some serious damage control.
What I liked:
- That it was so normal. No excessive drama. I mean, we all know that relationships need work. All what Laney and Mads went through are just your ordinary real life challenges. I would love to read more books that tackles what happens after the ‘I love you’s and we will live HEA’.
- That Kim Golden has mad story telling skills and makes you genuinely care about the characters. Speaking of those, I loved the secondary characters (with a special shout out to Willem, my fellow Dutchie ☺ who told the before mentioned man-stealer vixen off, good for him!). The secondary characters were key in helping the couple overcome their problems. And cousins Eddy and Henrik will get their own story, looking forward to that one too.
- That the story is set in Europe, Denmark specifically. I have much love for the Scandinavian region and will be visiting Copenhagen this year. Will make sure to visit Hotel Kong Arthur, the place where ‘Mads and Laney’ started ☺
The long awaited sequel to Maybe Baby. In the first book we met Laney who desperately wanted a child. Preferably with her then live in boyfriend Niklas, but when he decided that he wasn’t in the market for a second round of fatherhood (he had 2 children with his ex-wife), Laney decided she would settle for a sperm donor. The natural way. Enters Mads. Who was supposed to be just her sperm donor but they fell in love and had an affair. Laney left Niklas for Mads, got pregnant and married the love of her life. Yay. Ends book 1.
In Maybe forever we get to know what happens after the honeymoon is over. It’s 5 years later and Mads and Laney have 2 daughters. Mads is doing extremely well with his furniture company, working overtime and Laney is on maternity leave taking care of the kids. Laney is feeling overwhelmed and in desperate need of a break. She misses her man, whose focus is seemingly solely on his booming business and when he's finally home, on his daughters. Not so much on his wife. And it seems like everyone notice that all is not well with Laney but Mads.
Throw in insecurities issues from both spouses, poor communication, temptation at work (yup, there is always that hussy who wants who’s not hers) and all you get is: trouble in paradise.
It is a romance, so there will be a HEA but only after Laney takes drastic measures and Mads stops being so self involved and does some serious damage control.
What I liked:
- That it was so normal. No excessive drama. I mean, we all know that relationships need work. All what Laney and Mads went through are just your ordinary real life challenges. I would love to read more books that tackles what happens after the ‘I love you’s and we will live HEA’.
- That Kim Golden has mad story telling skills and makes you genuinely care about the characters. Speaking of those, I loved the secondary characters (with a special shout out to Willem, my fellow Dutchie ☺ who told the before mentioned man-stealer vixen off, good for him!). The secondary characters were key in helping the couple overcome their problems. And cousins Eddy and Henrik will get their own story, looking forward to that one too.
- That the story is set in Europe, Denmark specifically. I have much love for the Scandinavian region and will be visiting Copenhagen this year. Will make sure to visit Hotel Kong Arthur, the place where ‘Mads and Laney’ started ☺
May 18, 2015
To say I loved this story and this series would be a gross understatement. If you have not yet read Maybe Baby and Maybe Tonight, I strongly suggest you start with book 1, Maybe Baby, and enjoy the journey because you will fall in love with Laney and Mads as I have. Their coupling originated in the most unconventional way then blossomed into this organic love that came out of nowhere. In Maybe Forever, their forever is seriously tested, and I was on pins and needles the entire read hoping that karma didn’t come back to bit them in the arse.
In this installment, Laney and Mads have been married for four years and now have two young, beautiful daughters, Liv and Freya (I just love those names btw!) But all is not harmonious and happily ever after. Mads has become this workaholic who still he has to prove that he’s a better man for Laney than her dick of an ex Niklas. Niklas was successful and very wealthy and could give Laney anything she wanted-except the two children he ultimately fathered with her, but being a man, his ego wouldn’t allow him to see that. His quest for success led to long working nights, forgotten promises made to his children, and neglecting his wife. All of this culminates into Laney saying “Fuck this shit, I’m out…” And the fallout is…devastating: for Laney, for Mads, but more importantly, their kids. NOOOOOOO!!!!
This story is so wonderfully written because it’s so damn real. You feel as if you’re a fly on the wall witnessing it all go down. From Copenhagen to Florida and back, you’re transported across the globe and back as this couple, having real-life problems, try to work it out. You hurt for Laney’s feeling neglected on top of trying to be both mother and father to her kids while trying to salvage her marriage and her career. Mads on the other hand doesn’t realize what he’s had until it’s gone. The writing is so smooth and lulling and totally engrossing. Sooo good, click it up!
In this installment, Laney and Mads have been married for four years and now have two young, beautiful daughters, Liv and Freya (I just love those names btw!) But all is not harmonious and happily ever after. Mads has become this workaholic who still he has to prove that he’s a better man for Laney than her dick of an ex Niklas. Niklas was successful and very wealthy and could give Laney anything she wanted-except the two children he ultimately fathered with her, but being a man, his ego wouldn’t allow him to see that. His quest for success led to long working nights, forgotten promises made to his children, and neglecting his wife. All of this culminates into Laney saying “Fuck this shit, I’m out…” And the fallout is…devastating: for Laney, for Mads, but more importantly, their kids. NOOOOOOO!!!!
This story is so wonderfully written because it’s so damn real. You feel as if you’re a fly on the wall witnessing it all go down. From Copenhagen to Florida and back, you’re transported across the globe and back as this couple, having real-life problems, try to work it out. You hurt for Laney’s feeling neglected on top of trying to be both mother and father to her kids while trying to salvage her marriage and her career. Mads on the other hand doesn’t realize what he’s had until it’s gone. The writing is so smooth and lulling and totally engrossing. Sooo good, click it up!
March 27, 2016
I have enjoyed this series immensely and this book felt like the ideal completion. Maybe Forever has fast-forwarded a bit in the life of Laney and Mads, they're a few years down the line. For me, this has been a real strength of the series, seeing them from their first meeting to a life complicated by real life.
Laney and Mads are experiencing an impasse in their relationship. They're not connecting on a partnership level, physically or emotionally. It's a mess. Young children complicate this situation. Oh, how I could identify with this. Most people in a long term relationship with kids would identify on some level with where Laney was. I felt her pain but I also empathised with Mads. Mads had humility, alongside his stupidity. My love for his character did not wane one bit in this book. I love reading a book with married couples and the fact that I have been able to follow these two through years has been a bonus.
Kim Golden has impressed me with the concept for this series, her writing and execution have been consistently good. I look forward to more from her in the future.
The author provided a copy of this book in return for an honest review.
Reviewed for Jo&IsaLoveBooks Blog.
Laney and Mads are experiencing an impasse in their relationship. They're not connecting on a partnership level, physically or emotionally. It's a mess. Young children complicate this situation. Oh, how I could identify with this. Most people in a long term relationship with kids would identify on some level with where Laney was. I felt her pain but I also empathised with Mads. Mads had humility, alongside his stupidity. My love for his character did not wane one bit in this book. I love reading a book with married couples and the fact that I have been able to follow these two through years has been a bonus.
Kim Golden has impressed me with the concept for this series, her writing and execution have been consistently good. I look forward to more from her in the future.
The author provided a copy of this book in return for an honest review.
Reviewed for Jo&IsaLoveBooks Blog.
October 1, 2015
This is the third book in Kim Golden’s Maybe series, and I loved it. When I finished book one, Maybe Baby, I immediately downloaded Maybe Tonight. So, I have been anticipating the release of book three -- the continuation of the love story between Mads and Laney. It was very interesting to read both perspectives in the unfolding drama. Golden brings forth the realism of expat life and the challenges of having a family and maintaining the balance in relationships. Looking forward to her next work in the series. I am hooked!
February 9, 2016
This one was nice, I mean this is totally something that people go through. I found myself saying goodness I can relate! I love that Mag was like HELL NO I am going to fight for my wife.. for a minute I was like OH S*** please don't let him mess up!!!!
Overall nice read, I enjoyed this one much better than the first... I guess when you just deal with life issues and remove the whole big circle of cheating... makes me interested :)
Lata folks!
Overall nice read, I enjoyed this one much better than the first... I guess when you just deal with life issues and remove the whole big circle of cheating... makes me interested :)
Lata folks!
April 28, 2016
This book is the perfect ending to this series. It was less a traditional romance and more a love story about the very real struggles of staying in love with two little ones.
Golden does a great job of portraying the struggles of a new mother at home with her kids--the baby blues headed toward depression, the new balances of affection in the family, and the constant demands of very young kids. Laney struggles with all of these things, along with obstacles specific to expat parents--like the fact that her daughter isn't fully fluent in English, so their communication doesn't go as smoothly as it goes with her daughter and Mads.
Then Mads's long hours get longer, and their relationship takes a turn for the worse, prompting Laney to flee with the kids to Florida. Yes, this happens in real life, too, and Golden touches on a lot of the issues that come with this kind of decision. Both Laney and Mads have to work to reshape their relationship now that they have a family, but ultimately they come out stronger--both in their own relationship and in their relationships with both their families.
I've enjoyed this series from start to finish, and I'm sad it's over! As someone who has lived in Scandinavia, both the setting and the issues that Golden addresses felt real and compelling. Maybe she'll write about another North American/Scandinavian couple? I'm crossing my fingers!
Golden does a great job of portraying the struggles of a new mother at home with her kids--the baby blues headed toward depression, the new balances of affection in the family, and the constant demands of very young kids. Laney struggles with all of these things, along with obstacles specific to expat parents--like the fact that her daughter isn't fully fluent in English, so their communication doesn't go as smoothly as it goes with her daughter and Mads.
Then Mads's long hours get longer, and their relationship takes a turn for the worse, prompting Laney to flee with the kids to Florida. Yes, this happens in real life, too, and Golden touches on a lot of the issues that come with this kind of decision. Both Laney and Mads have to work to reshape their relationship now that they have a family, but ultimately they come out stronger--both in their own relationship and in their relationships with both their families.
I've enjoyed this series from start to finish, and I'm sad it's over! As someone who has lived in Scandinavia, both the setting and the issues that Golden addresses felt real and compelling. Maybe she'll write about another North American/Scandinavian couple? I'm crossing my fingers!
December 23, 2015
Full disclosure, I'm in love with Laney and Mads. After I read Maybe Baby for the third or fifth time, and sailed through the follow-up novella, Maybe Tonight, I waited impatiently for Maybe Forever. I knew that Kim would show us the reality of Mads and Laney's whirlwind romance, and that it would be painful, often infuriating, but ultimately uplifting.
The book picks up four years after Mads swept into Laney's life, and her heart, and gave her everything she didn't even know she'd been missing. They live in Copenhagen, with their two adorable little girls, and Mads' business is starting to really take off. But all is not well in Denmark. Insecurities abound, on both sides of the relationship. Coupled with fatigue and (here's the frustrating part!) miscommunication, the modern day fairy tale begins to unravel. What follows is a heartbreaking glimpse into how something so good can go very, very wrong if you don't work at it.
I don't want to spoil your experience with their journey. All I can promise is that you won't regret the ride.
The book picks up four years after Mads swept into Laney's life, and her heart, and gave her everything she didn't even know she'd been missing. They live in Copenhagen, with their two adorable little girls, and Mads' business is starting to really take off. But all is not well in Denmark. Insecurities abound, on both sides of the relationship. Coupled with fatigue and (here's the frustrating part!) miscommunication, the modern day fairy tale begins to unravel. What follows is a heartbreaking glimpse into how something so good can go very, very wrong if you don't work at it.
I don't want to spoil your experience with their journey. All I can promise is that you won't regret the ride.
May 24, 2015
It was good to catch up with Mads and Laney, who are now the parents of two children. I felt Laney went a little overboard with her reason for leaving Mads and not telling him where she was, but women are emotional creatures so it is what it is. I am interested to see what happens next with Eddy's story . I enjoyed this story but I felt like I wanted more , a deeper reason for Laney to leave and a more in-depth description of Mads working so hard, him reasoning with himself why he was never home. I want to visit Sweden one day just from reading these books.
June 9, 2015
Loved It
This book had the perfect balance of everything. I loved it. Can't wait for the cousins story. This is my first time reading this authors works. I'm pleasantly surprised.
This book had the perfect balance of everything. I loved it. Can't wait for the cousins story. This is my first time reading this authors works. I'm pleasantly surprised.
July 7, 2015
This was good. It was a good closure to Mads and Laney's story.
October 3, 2015
Happy that it was shown that even a loving relationship can go through trials and tribulations and come out fresh and intact with more love.
May 12, 2015
For someone who continually says she's not a big fan of series stories, I flock to some of them like my life depends on it! LOL! “Maybe Forever”, the latest work by Kim Golden, is one of those. It's the continuation of the love story of Laney Halliwell and Mads Rassmussen, whom we first met in “Maybe Baby.” (And “Maybe Tonight” - Mads' POV.)
It's four years later for the now married Copenhagen couple, who met initially because of Laney's desire to be a mother. Now, they're parents to two little girls – four year old Liv and seven month old Freya. Laney is definitely worse for the wear. Even though Mads took time off work to help, he's back to work full throttle. When Mads IS home, he's a great father, but most days, he leaves home early, returns late, and Laney feels abandoned, unworthy, and over whelmed.
To be fair, ANY woman who's given birth has had a dose of the blues, and they're only worse if you have another young child to care for. But compile that with Laney's own difficult childhood and adolescence, plus her past relationship, and she's an accident looking for a place to happen. Attempts to reach out to Mads usually end up in heated arguments, and after he misses a truly important date with her, Laney makes a decision.
This is where Kim Golden ripped my heart from my chest and laughed – Laney took the girls and left. We're not talking about going to a hotel or friend's house, SHE LEFT THE COUNTRY! I believe I was more devastated than either Laney or Mads.
And that is why this story delivers. It makes you feel. The author isn't telling you a story. She unzips the fabric of these characters lives and allows you to slip inside. You feel Laney's depression. You hurt as she sits in a restaurant alone...waiting. Mads' frustration throws you off balance, and his heartache makes you rub your chest. You squeeze your eyes shut while shaking your head, not wanting these two to be apart. You want to smack them both and yell, “Snap out of it!” ala Cher and Nicolas Cage in “Moonstruck.” You're pissed that the author “took you there”, and wonder if this marriage can be “fixed.” Laney and Mads are meant to be together – can't they see that?
That's where supporting characters enter. It seems everyone in Laney and Mads' lives saw this coming, and they want it fixed, too. “Seeing” these faces again pulls the reader in and makes them feel like part of the Rassmussen's support network. Eddy and Henrik, Benjamin, Alma, Anton and Ingrid all need for Mads to fix this. Yes, Mads. The burden is on him. You find out why as the story unfolds, but in Mads' defense (because I'll always defend him...hehehe), he wasn't just another male workaholic trying to conquer the business world. There was a method to Mads' madness. He has his own demons still shadowing him that cause him to lose focus. Don't give up on him...yet. We get to know Eddy's mom, Cecily. She took Laney in after her father abandoned her when Laney's mom died, and is still doing a fantastic job as mom and “gramma”. Speaking of dear old dad, we get to meet him too.
You “could” read “Maybe Forever” as a standalone, but I do not recommend it. The current story loses too much meaning if you don't know the back story. Read “Maybe Baby” first – you'll be glad you did. If you've read book 1, one click now – Laney and Mads are waiting for you!
(I received an ARC copy of "Maybe Forever" in exchange for an honest review.)
It's four years later for the now married Copenhagen couple, who met initially because of Laney's desire to be a mother. Now, they're parents to two little girls – four year old Liv and seven month old Freya. Laney is definitely worse for the wear. Even though Mads took time off work to help, he's back to work full throttle. When Mads IS home, he's a great father, but most days, he leaves home early, returns late, and Laney feels abandoned, unworthy, and over whelmed.
To be fair, ANY woman who's given birth has had a dose of the blues, and they're only worse if you have another young child to care for. But compile that with Laney's own difficult childhood and adolescence, plus her past relationship, and she's an accident looking for a place to happen. Attempts to reach out to Mads usually end up in heated arguments, and after he misses a truly important date with her, Laney makes a decision.
This is where Kim Golden ripped my heart from my chest and laughed – Laney took the girls and left. We're not talking about going to a hotel or friend's house, SHE LEFT THE COUNTRY! I believe I was more devastated than either Laney or Mads.
And that is why this story delivers. It makes you feel. The author isn't telling you a story. She unzips the fabric of these characters lives and allows you to slip inside. You feel Laney's depression. You hurt as she sits in a restaurant alone...waiting. Mads' frustration throws you off balance, and his heartache makes you rub your chest. You squeeze your eyes shut while shaking your head, not wanting these two to be apart. You want to smack them both and yell, “Snap out of it!” ala Cher and Nicolas Cage in “Moonstruck.” You're pissed that the author “took you there”, and wonder if this marriage can be “fixed.” Laney and Mads are meant to be together – can't they see that?
That's where supporting characters enter. It seems everyone in Laney and Mads' lives saw this coming, and they want it fixed, too. “Seeing” these faces again pulls the reader in and makes them feel like part of the Rassmussen's support network. Eddy and Henrik, Benjamin, Alma, Anton and Ingrid all need for Mads to fix this. Yes, Mads. The burden is on him. You find out why as the story unfolds, but in Mads' defense (because I'll always defend him...hehehe), he wasn't just another male workaholic trying to conquer the business world. There was a method to Mads' madness. He has his own demons still shadowing him that cause him to lose focus. Don't give up on him...yet. We get to know Eddy's mom, Cecily. She took Laney in after her father abandoned her when Laney's mom died, and is still doing a fantastic job as mom and “gramma”. Speaking of dear old dad, we get to meet him too.
You “could” read “Maybe Forever” as a standalone, but I do not recommend it. The current story loses too much meaning if you don't know the back story. Read “Maybe Baby” first – you'll be glad you did. If you've read book 1, one click now – Laney and Mads are waiting for you!
(I received an ARC copy of "Maybe Forever" in exchange for an honest review.)
May 15, 2015
**I was provided an ARC of this novel from the author in exchange for an honest review. **
Maybe Forever is the follow up to Maybe Baby by author Kim Golden. Laney, desperate to have a child met Mads through an agency that would potentially help her have a child with or without her then long time boyfriend Niklas. They fall in love, have an affair, Mads leaves Niklas and the two are married with children and living a life of perceived bliss. Laney has everything she has ever wanted-- a man who is deeply in love with her and children.
Four years later, Laney is trying desperately to hold on to the fairy tale she thought she was living. She and Mads are on child number two. Mads is on the verge of great success with his furniture design company. Laney is at home with two young children and feels alone, on edge, desperate for a break. And it seems like everyone sees it but Mads.
In an attempt to make things better, Mads sets up a date for the two of them. A lovely restaurant, a night at a hotel, an overnight sitter. Excited that this could mean the return of her husband and the passion they shared before the children and the heavy cloak of spouse-and-parenthood descended upon them.
But Mads doesn't show up. "I'll be there in fifteen minutes," turns into a over an hour and still no Mads. Knowing he's at his workshop, Laney goes to find him and comes upon a scene that is any wife's nightmare.
Laney disappears, leaves Denmark and heads to the US without telling her husband where she's gone and taken their children. Something inside her is broken. The marriage, the love, the fairy tale is broken. It is up to Mads to wake up and repair it and hope that he can reach Laney before the damage is irreparable.
A few weeks ago some online friends of mine were having something of a vent session. As a single person, it's hard for me to put myself in the shoes of a person who has always had to put others in front of herself. Husband, children even pets. It's always just been me- I don't even have plants-- so I sit back and I take in the frustrations of wives and mothers, those who are expected to be nurturing and selfless and giving, who take care of everything, because if it's left undone, it'll stay undone.
I can imagine that the job of wife and mother can be thankless even when you have a lot of help. When your spouse is never home and when he IS home, he pays more attention to the children than you, and then collapses into bed talking of work and is gone before you awaken again... it tends to sound like a prison. All this to say, that I'm SINGLE and I understand Laney's feelings and her reactions, her near madness at the situation.
I can't imagine if I was living it. I read this book with my thumbnail in my mouth. Dreading Mads not waking up. Hoping he does. And turning page after page and letting the story unfold.
I loved that this story was realistic. I think romance needs more stories that are about husbands and wives stoking the home fires, keeping the love and passion alive after the I Love You, After The I Do. What happens during the Happily Ever After? Is it always happy?
A great read from a talented author.
At the end of this book is a hint toward's July's release, Maybe Tomorrow. I'm REALLY looking forward to this novel because I think Eddy has put up with QUITE enough and I'm looking forward to her Happily Ever After.
Maybe Forever is the follow up to Maybe Baby by author Kim Golden. Laney, desperate to have a child met Mads through an agency that would potentially help her have a child with or without her then long time boyfriend Niklas. They fall in love, have an affair, Mads leaves Niklas and the two are married with children and living a life of perceived bliss. Laney has everything she has ever wanted-- a man who is deeply in love with her and children.
Four years later, Laney is trying desperately to hold on to the fairy tale she thought she was living. She and Mads are on child number two. Mads is on the verge of great success with his furniture design company. Laney is at home with two young children and feels alone, on edge, desperate for a break. And it seems like everyone sees it but Mads.
In an attempt to make things better, Mads sets up a date for the two of them. A lovely restaurant, a night at a hotel, an overnight sitter. Excited that this could mean the return of her husband and the passion they shared before the children and the heavy cloak of spouse-and-parenthood descended upon them.
But Mads doesn't show up. "I'll be there in fifteen minutes," turns into a over an hour and still no Mads. Knowing he's at his workshop, Laney goes to find him and comes upon a scene that is any wife's nightmare.
Laney disappears, leaves Denmark and heads to the US without telling her husband where she's gone and taken their children. Something inside her is broken. The marriage, the love, the fairy tale is broken. It is up to Mads to wake up and repair it and hope that he can reach Laney before the damage is irreparable.
A few weeks ago some online friends of mine were having something of a vent session. As a single person, it's hard for me to put myself in the shoes of a person who has always had to put others in front of herself. Husband, children even pets. It's always just been me- I don't even have plants-- so I sit back and I take in the frustrations of wives and mothers, those who are expected to be nurturing and selfless and giving, who take care of everything, because if it's left undone, it'll stay undone.
I can imagine that the job of wife and mother can be thankless even when you have a lot of help. When your spouse is never home and when he IS home, he pays more attention to the children than you, and then collapses into bed talking of work and is gone before you awaken again... it tends to sound like a prison. All this to say, that I'm SINGLE and I understand Laney's feelings and her reactions, her near madness at the situation.
I can't imagine if I was living it. I read this book with my thumbnail in my mouth. Dreading Mads not waking up. Hoping he does. And turning page after page and letting the story unfold.
I loved that this story was realistic. I think romance needs more stories that are about husbands and wives stoking the home fires, keeping the love and passion alive after the I Love You, After The I Do. What happens during the Happily Ever After? Is it always happy?
A great read from a talented author.
At the end of this book is a hint toward's July's release, Maybe Tomorrow. I'm REALLY looking forward to this novel because I think Eddy has put up with QUITE enough and I'm looking forward to her Happily Ever After.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
December 17, 2015
Thank you to Kim Golden for this ARC. Let's get down to the review, shall we...
I have absolutely fallen in love with the “Maybe Baby” series and the real, flawed yet hopeful characters that Kim Golden has created. Kim's idea of a black woman in Europe, making a home for herself, exploring relationships, deepening friendships and familial bonds, and involving herself with a man, who himself was originally involved in a situation that most women would never fathom or could handle, compelled me. Not because it's an original concept for black women to exist in a Scandinavian country, but rather because I've never personally known a black woman who has. And in this series it isn't a big deal. She's dating (white men), and working (with white men), and dumping (white men), and me explaining this right now is making a bigger deal about the interracial relationships and storylines Kim has cultivated than the books and characters ever did. And the series’ absence of that focus is refreshing.
Enough gushing over the series, let’s get down to business: "Maybe Forever". Book three in the continuance of Mads and Laney’s life together brings the realness, y'all. A bit of past angst and jealousy and miscommunication have been trumped by their love for one another, and now they are building a life for themselves and their growing family. Well, love is great and all, but as Miss Tina Turner so aptly sang: What’s love got to do with it! You need more than love. You need commitment, appreciation, honor. Some may argue those qualities (and then some) are more important than love when it comes to having a successful relationship, as our two homieloverfriends soon find out. Mads and Laney now have two baby girls that they adore, but the emotional struggle is real. And to top it off some heifer is lurking around the corner, shameless, beguiling, and in need of a good read (the throwing shade kind of read). And that's all I'm going to say about the plot, because it truly needs to be read, experienced and imagined in your own personal way.
I highly recommend this book, the series, anything Kim Golden has written, if you haven’t figured that out already. There's a genuine quality to her words that make it so easy to see these people in my mind. And she wrote this during NaNoWriMo... The dedication!
Enjoy.
On a side note: When I read "Maybe Baby", the first book in the series, I said I didn't think there needed to be a continuance to Laney and Mads's story. I am so glad I was wrong!
August 29, 2015
Adequate communication is important for the success and upkeep of a marriage. Until the birth of their second daughter, Freya, Laney and Mads enjoyed a good marital relationship.
A depressed and guilt-ridden, Laney does not appear to engage as often with Freya as she did with her eldest daughter, Liv. I believe post-partum depression is one of the culprits in Laney feeling bankrupt.
Mads is a loving, hands-on dad, providing quality, but limited time with his children. In addition, he doesn’t spend time with Laney.
Laney’s dire need to feel loved and protected stems from her father, Lionel, not giving her the love and protection she required as a child.
Frustrated, Laney needs to feel she is still loved and wanted, and that Mads is supportive of her full-time job with their two high-spirited toddlers. Unlike Laney’s father, Mads is not emotionally remote with his daughters.
Mads wants to prove he is a good provider; his furniture design and woodworking are now in demand. Therefore, he spends less time at home. He often makes promises to Laney and their girls, which are inadvertently broken because of outside contract commitments.
Laney is disillusioned with Mads behavior. Yet, if, in marriage, you believe your mate should do everything you want, to be everything you would like him or her to be, you are bound to be disappointed.
In Mads case, Laney’s disillusionment is palpable and recognized. You feel her pain when Mads disappoints her. You feel it with her father’s abrasive and caustic mien.
The antagonist is named Benny. An intern at Mads’ firm, her inappropriate behavior towards him causes Laney to doubt her husband. However, Benny appears to be a cog in this fast-paced story.
You are not bored or
I love Kim Golden’s series on Laney and Mads.
I enjoyed that real family issues and values are at the forefront, and steamy scenes between husband and wife are well written, but brief.
I liked how the author provided individual chapters in Maybe Forever for both Laney and Mads to discuss their sentiments in first-person.
The description of the characters seemed real life, and some scenes were memorable and vivid with Laney, Mads, their children, gentle Aunt Cecily and the confrontation between Laney and her father.
A depressed and guilt-ridden, Laney does not appear to engage as often with Freya as she did with her eldest daughter, Liv. I believe post-partum depression is one of the culprits in Laney feeling bankrupt.
Mads is a loving, hands-on dad, providing quality, but limited time with his children. In addition, he doesn’t spend time with Laney.
Laney’s dire need to feel loved and protected stems from her father, Lionel, not giving her the love and protection she required as a child.
Frustrated, Laney needs to feel she is still loved and wanted, and that Mads is supportive of her full-time job with their two high-spirited toddlers. Unlike Laney’s father, Mads is not emotionally remote with his daughters.
Mads wants to prove he is a good provider; his furniture design and woodworking are now in demand. Therefore, he spends less time at home. He often makes promises to Laney and their girls, which are inadvertently broken because of outside contract commitments.
Laney is disillusioned with Mads behavior. Yet, if, in marriage, you believe your mate should do everything you want, to be everything you would like him or her to be, you are bound to be disappointed.
In Mads case, Laney’s disillusionment is palpable and recognized. You feel her pain when Mads disappoints her. You feel it with her father’s abrasive and caustic mien.
The antagonist is named Benny. An intern at Mads’ firm, her inappropriate behavior towards him causes Laney to doubt her husband. However, Benny appears to be a cog in this fast-paced story.
You are not bored or
I love Kim Golden’s series on Laney and Mads.
I enjoyed that real family issues and values are at the forefront, and steamy scenes between husband and wife are well written, but brief.
I liked how the author provided individual chapters in Maybe Forever for both Laney and Mads to discuss their sentiments in first-person.
The description of the characters seemed real life, and some scenes were memorable and vivid with Laney, Mads, their children, gentle Aunt Cecily and the confrontation between Laney and her father.
October 14, 2015
How does a marriage fall apart? Is it possible to repair it? Mads and Laney drifted apart. They'd remarried for four years, had two daughters, and lived in Denmark. She's American; he's Danish. He works hard, long hours with a tempting intern. She feels like a single parent, suffering with post partum depression.
It takes a drastic measure by Laney to cause Mads to think about what is most important to him. It's a journey to remember and rekindle their love before it's too late.
I fell for Laney and Mads and Liv and Freya. The power of love to heal and bond. I liked that both Mads and Laney's POV were included. It took two to get them in the situation they were in. Love was not enough. It would take time together, choosing family over work, and finally communicating with each other. It felt real.
I also liked the mix of the two nationalities: Danish and American. Some Danish words and culture were sprinkled throughout. Can two from different backgrounds make it?
This is the first book by this author that I have read, thanks to eBook Discovery Read and Review Club. I received a copy for free in exchange for my honest review. This is that review.
I didn't realize that this was not a standalone until I finished reading it and saw the preview for another book in the series. I'm looking forward to reading another in this series.
It takes a drastic measure by Laney to cause Mads to think about what is most important to him. It's a journey to remember and rekindle their love before it's too late.
I fell for Laney and Mads and Liv and Freya. The power of love to heal and bond. I liked that both Mads and Laney's POV were included. It took two to get them in the situation they were in. Love was not enough. It would take time together, choosing family over work, and finally communicating with each other. It felt real.
I also liked the mix of the two nationalities: Danish and American. Some Danish words and culture were sprinkled throughout. Can two from different backgrounds make it?
This is the first book by this author that I have read, thanks to eBook Discovery Read and Review Club. I received a copy for free in exchange for my honest review. This is that review.
I didn't realize that this was not a standalone until I finished reading it and saw the preview for another book in the series. I'm looking forward to reading another in this series.
December 22, 2017
The endless love of Mads and Laney
This was an awesome end to a heartwarming love story! Mads and Laney stole my heart! I feel lost now that we’ve come to the end. Wish we had more time with them Kim Golden, you have breathed life into some amazing characters!
Their love is a testament that even when you truly love someone, you can lose your way. Mads was so focused on trying to give his wife a life like she had in the past that he lost sight of what was most important. Like Laney said, “If I wanted that life I wouldn’t have chose you!” Laney was struggling because she couldn’t shake the postpartum depression that had her doubting her love for her baby girl. With Mads so focused on building his business and making the money so he could provide for his family, they stopped listening to each other and what the other person needed. As much as they loved each other, they both still had deep seated insecurities that kept them blind to their situation. This allowed temptation to creep in and further put strain on their marriage. It took Laney leaving along with the help of their closest friends to get Mads to see where he was going wrong. Once Laney had her say with her father, she was able to heal. Both Mads and Laney with the help of their babies, Liv and Freya, were able to move forward with their fathers and make new memories
This was an awesome end to a heartwarming love story! Mads and Laney stole my heart! I feel lost now that we’ve come to the end. Wish we had more time with them Kim Golden, you have breathed life into some amazing characters!
Their love is a testament that even when you truly love someone, you can lose your way. Mads was so focused on trying to give his wife a life like she had in the past that he lost sight of what was most important. Like Laney said, “If I wanted that life I wouldn’t have chose you!” Laney was struggling because she couldn’t shake the postpartum depression that had her doubting her love for her baby girl. With Mads so focused on building his business and making the money so he could provide for his family, they stopped listening to each other and what the other person needed. As much as they loved each other, they both still had deep seated insecurities that kept them blind to their situation. This allowed temptation to creep in and further put strain on their marriage. It took Laney leaving along with the help of their closest friends to get Mads to see where he was going wrong. Once Laney had her say with her father, she was able to heal. Both Mads and Laney with the help of their babies, Liv and Freya, were able to move forward with their fathers and make new memories
December 31, 2015
Goodreads Signed Win
What should be a happy time in their lives turns into a nightmare. Laney is struggling with raising her two young daughters and maintaining a the household. Her husband Mads finds himself chasing a career that he forgets the promises he made to his wife.
Along the way, he forgets what is most important to him as he gets distracted with long hours at work. He does not notice that his wife is struggling with the kids and post baby depression until it is too late.
What was supposed to be an early anniversary date turns out to be the last straw as she is left waiting at the restaurant for over an hour. She leaves and decides to visit her husband work and catches him with a co worker who was kissing him.
Having enough, the next morning she takes her daughters and flies to America to stay with her aunt needing space. She does not tell him where they are but that they are safe.
During the time a part he realizes that he is at fault and that he loves her and his daughters. That he has taken her for granted and that people around her notice her sadness.
Will he get his chance to make it up to Laney or is it too late? In life we take things for granted.
What should be a happy time in their lives turns into a nightmare. Laney is struggling with raising her two young daughters and maintaining a the household. Her husband Mads finds himself chasing a career that he forgets the promises he made to his wife.
Along the way, he forgets what is most important to him as he gets distracted with long hours at work. He does not notice that his wife is struggling with the kids and post baby depression until it is too late.
What was supposed to be an early anniversary date turns out to be the last straw as she is left waiting at the restaurant for over an hour. She leaves and decides to visit her husband work and catches him with a co worker who was kissing him.
Having enough, the next morning she takes her daughters and flies to America to stay with her aunt needing space. She does not tell him where they are but that they are safe.
During the time a part he realizes that he is at fault and that he loves her and his daughters. That he has taken her for granted and that people around her notice her sadness.
Will he get his chance to make it up to Laney or is it too late? In life we take things for granted.
May 4, 2015
I was so lucky to receive an ARC of this book after devouring Maybe Baby and Maybe Tonight in two days.
I was sucked in to Mads and Laney's story and needed to know what happened. I needed more and I got it.
This is my favourite out of the three. You get both Laney and Mads POV which I truly think give this book something extra. You see the story unfold from both of them and this works, I think you’d otherwise be left with half of the story missing and it would be a frustrating read.
You’ll yell at your kindle and sigh in contentment when you reach the end. You’ll love Mads more by the end. Trust Kim in this story telling, you won't be disappointed!
Kim writes a clever and real story. I adore it.
I was sucked in to Mads and Laney's story and needed to know what happened. I needed more and I got it.
This is my favourite out of the three. You get both Laney and Mads POV which I truly think give this book something extra. You see the story unfold from both of them and this works, I think you’d otherwise be left with half of the story missing and it would be a frustrating read.
You’ll yell at your kindle and sigh in contentment when you reach the end. You’ll love Mads more by the end. Trust Kim in this story telling, you won't be disappointed!
Kim writes a clever and real story. I adore it.
July 12, 2015
I love this couple, and I almost had a heart attack while reading this book. I was expecting more happily ever after, great sex, Mads making me adore him even more,but that was not the case. This couples drama got a little realistic, and had me on edge with my fingers crossed. I needed oxygen after reading this book. I was holding my breath at times, cursing Mads like he was the devil, and shaking my head. I enjoyed this read, it's written in a way that gives a males perspective as to why they do the dumb 'ISH' that they do sometimes.
Definately a Good Read, and a Great Series.
Definately a Good Read, and a Great Series.
May 11, 2015
Maybe Forever by Kim Golden is a real love story. While reading I felt as if I was looking into Laney and Mads life. I felt their love and also their pain and struggle. Laney is feeling adrift as mommy to two young ones and Mads is so focused on providing for her, he cannot see or understand what she's going through. So much so he risks her and we see them struggle to maintain themselves. Maybe Forever is real and poignant storytelling and Ms. Golden gave us true to life, modern characters we can immerse ourselves into. I loved every single word. Brava. Angelia Vernon Menchan
October 11, 2015
Another really good read in the Maybe Serie. Simply heartwarming and realistic. Mads and Laney's marriage were in trouble. Laney suffered from postpartum depression while Mads was distracted by his work and the gorgeous Benny. There were quite a few arguements and disagreements that caused them to pull away from each other. We get to see their marriage fall apart and the effort it took to put it back together. Looking forward to Book 4.
February 12, 2017
4.5/5.0
Beautifully written! Author Kim Golden wove a tale of an authentic relationship complete with the rawness and vulnerabilities of a new-again mother.
Read full review in the 2016 February issue of InD'tale Magazine.
Beautifully written! Author Kim Golden wove a tale of an authentic relationship complete with the rawness and vulnerabilities of a new-again mother.
Read full review in the 2016 February issue of InD'tale Magazine.
October 30, 2020
This was a nice conclusion to the series. The only complaint I have is just how long it took Mads to hop his butt on a plane to go and save his marriage. It just made me really anxious and eager to see Laney and Mads come together and resolve their issues. I also liked that there was a modicum of closure between Laney and her father - the no good deadbeat. Needless to say, I really loved it this series and highkey recommend.
December 14, 2017
4.5 Stars
June 6, 2016
We are proud to announce that MAYBE FOREVER by Kim Golden is a B.R.A.G. Medallion Honoree. This tells a reader that this book is well worth their time and money!
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