What do you think?
Rate this book
Forever: A Lobster Kind of Love
When a drunk truck driver claimed Lydia’s husband and son, her world shattered. The small town that once embraced her was now her personal hell. She made the decision to leave her hometown of Nazareth, Pennsylvania and move to Eastport, Maine, to start over in the last happy place she ever knew.
When the sea tried to claim Ryan, he was left a broken man. Starting over in a wheelchair was the last thing he expected to do. Ryan was born to be a lobster fisherman, not a buoy. When Lydia became his home care nurse, he never expected her to be the light at the end of his tunnel.
Will their broken hearts survive a second chance or will they remain locked in their cages?
Lobsters mate for life. Lobster love is forever.
When the sea tried to claim Ryan, he was left a broken man. Starting over in a wheelchair was the last thing he expected to do. Ryan was born to be a lobster fisherman, not a buoy. When Lydia became his home care nurse, he never expected her to be the light at the end of his tunnel.
Will their broken hearts survive a second chance or will they remain locked in their cages?
Lobsters mate for life. Lobster love is forever.
Paperback
First published June 7, 2015
6 people are currently reading
395 people want to read
About the author
Jody Pardo
16 books129 followersJody was born and raised in New York City and is an only child of an English professor. After 9/11/2001 and a line of duty injury, she left her role as an EMT with FDNY-EMS for a quieter life. She pursued Bachelor's degrees at Arizona State University in Molecular Biosciences and English. Her love of books and introduction to the Indie book world led to many wonderful friendships, and the drive to write and publish was ignited. Jody loves to travel and meet new people and has lived in four states and has visited 48 out of 50 US states.
Jody currently resides in Oklahoma teaching the fifth grade and is a single mom to her daughter Ariel Elizabeth and her cat, Bullet.
Follow Jody on Facebook: www.facebook.com/jodypardoauthor
Follow Jody on Instagram: @authorjodypardo
Jody currently resides in Oklahoma teaching the fifth grade and is a single mom to her daughter Ariel Elizabeth and her cat, Bullet.
Follow Jody on Facebook: www.facebook.com/jodypardoauthor
Follow Jody on Instagram: @authorjodypardo
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 73 reviews
June 25, 2015
Wow, I don't even know where to start. I absolutely loved this book! If it wasn't for work getting in the way I would have read it in one setting lol.
This story was so down to earth and real that you are just sucked right into the story line. The characters and story line are very well developed and have a depth to them that people can relate to. I loved that it wasn't a insta-romance, it had build up to that point that made it realistic.
Lydia's character was easy to relate to to and seemed very human, her grief over the loss of her family and how she dealt with it made her and strong female lead and very relate-able to real life. She took her time dealing with her grief thought out the book. I adored her character.
Ryan's character was also well written. I just wanted to hug him, I felt so bad for him when he first got home and was all alone. I loved that his character was strong and didn't dwell on his injury, just accepted it and moved on to enjoy life.
The story line flowed perfectly though out the book, wasn't rushed at all. This book pulls on your heart strings and makes you fall in love with the love story. My only problem is that the it was getting so good, the romance had started, the steaminess was kicking then, then the book ended! NO!! There needs to be more lol.
I would highly recommend this book to everyone to read!!! We need more of Lydia and Ryan ASAP.
ARC received in exchanged for an honest review
This story was so down to earth and real that you are just sucked right into the story line. The characters and story line are very well developed and have a depth to them that people can relate to. I loved that it wasn't a insta-romance, it had build up to that point that made it realistic.
Lydia's character was easy to relate to to and seemed very human, her grief over the loss of her family and how she dealt with it made her and strong female lead and very relate-able to real life. She took her time dealing with her grief thought out the book. I adored her character.
Ryan's character was also well written. I just wanted to hug him, I felt so bad for him when he first got home and was all alone. I loved that his character was strong and didn't dwell on his injury, just accepted it and moved on to enjoy life.
The story line flowed perfectly though out the book, wasn't rushed at all. This book pulls on your heart strings and makes you fall in love with the love story. My only problem is that the it was getting so good, the romance had started, the steaminess was kicking then, then the book ended! NO!! There needs to be more lol.
I would highly recommend this book to everyone to read!!! We need more of Lydia and Ryan ASAP.
ARC received in exchanged for an honest review
June 6, 2015
I received an ARC cope of this book in exchange for an honest review.
Ryan caught in a storm on his boat wakes to find himself in the hospital with his legs paralyzed. Months of therapy and they are ready to send him home in his wheelchair. Lydia a home nurse is packing up her life to move After the death of her husband and son. She is finding it hard to pick up the pieces of her life. Keeping herself drugged with prescription medications isn't the way to heal. She is off to start a new life in Eastport Maine. A small town her husband and her had visited once.
The book is a slow build to the romance. Not in a bad way. It takes you through what each character is going through. Ryan leaning to deal with his handicap, getting sent home with a day nurse to help out. Lydia learning to live without her family. Building a new life in a new place. Lots of emotions floating around. Ryan and Lydia start with a work relationship, then friendship and it goes from there. It is more realistic. I know we read romance to escape reality but in this case it works. A quick romance wouldn't have worked. There is so much I want to say but I don't want to ruin the book for anyone else. It is one of the books where I went to bed thinking to read a few chapters and found myself at 3 am reading the last page then letting out a big Sad it was over, but happy with the ending.
Ryan caught in a storm on his boat wakes to find himself in the hospital with his legs paralyzed. Months of therapy and they are ready to send him home in his wheelchair. Lydia a home nurse is packing up her life to move After the death of her husband and son. She is finding it hard to pick up the pieces of her life. Keeping herself drugged with prescription medications isn't the way to heal. She is off to start a new life in Eastport Maine. A small town her husband and her had visited once.
The book is a slow build to the romance. Not in a bad way. It takes you through what each character is going through. Ryan leaning to deal with his handicap, getting sent home with a day nurse to help out. Lydia learning to live without her family. Building a new life in a new place. Lots of emotions floating around. Ryan and Lydia start with a work relationship, then friendship and it goes from there. It is more realistic. I know we read romance to escape reality but in this case it works. A quick romance wouldn't have worked. There is so much I want to say but I don't want to ruin the book for anyone else. It is one of the books where I went to bed thinking to read a few chapters and found myself at 3 am reading the last page then letting out a big Sad it was over, but happy with the ending.
June 8, 2015
** ARC provided by the author for an honest review.**
4.5 stars!
Great first novel, about two people who lost so much in their lives. Thank you for this story!
Review to come!
***********************************************************************
Forever : A lobster Kind of love was a beautiful, moving and sweet story about two people, both grieving and trying to heal from their loss, reunited by circumstances of life. I really don't know what to expect from this book; but I was taken by surprise, getting to love it, as its history has unfolded.
This story could be falling into pathos, with two characters, Lynda and Ryan; one was grieving the death of her husband and son and the other a seaman who survives a tragic accident, only to find out paralyzed, but it wasn't! The plot was brilliant, with a sincerity, and a lightness that makes the story so endearing and so easy to love.
After his reeducation, Ryan needed to adjust to his new life, where he has no idea gonna lead him. And then, the parts about his doubts, the realization that we would never walk again, the loss of all he had, was moving. He was a fighter and a survivor. He wasn't wallowing in self pity, being surrounded by family and medical staff, proving that he could make it, with a lot of training, but life's worth it.
Lydia was hiring as his nurse. Seeing how she had to deal with the pain, sorrow was heartbreaking. Having Ryan as a client was a beginning of something new. Like they clicked.
She was a fighter too, definitely wanted to move on, but the wounds were still deeply opened. She has no idea how she's gonna survive.
The magic happened when she came to this town, where people were caring for each other and stick together.
Lydia and Ryan have a great and entertaining banter. I liked their sarcastic and humorous tone, the way I testified the evolution of their relationship; from nurse-client, to friends and then as a couple.
Lydia was definitely struggling to remain professional, but could she pass the opportunity for a second chance at love?
It wasn't like insta love; but more as they were healing together, helped them along the path to a better life. They were strong together.
I couldn't put it down, totally enhanced by their story, with lovers reunited by a forever lobster kind of love! It was the perfect blend of sexy and funny moments, emotional ones, and a great off the charts chemistry!
4.5 stars!
Great first novel, about two people who lost so much in their lives. Thank you for this story!
Review to come!
***********************************************************************
Forever : A lobster Kind of love was a beautiful, moving and sweet story about two people, both grieving and trying to heal from their loss, reunited by circumstances of life. I really don't know what to expect from this book; but I was taken by surprise, getting to love it, as its history has unfolded.
This story could be falling into pathos, with two characters, Lynda and Ryan; one was grieving the death of her husband and son and the other a seaman who survives a tragic accident, only to find out paralyzed, but it wasn't! The plot was brilliant, with a sincerity, and a lightness that makes the story so endearing and so easy to love.
After his reeducation, Ryan needed to adjust to his new life, where he has no idea gonna lead him. And then, the parts about his doubts, the realization that we would never walk again, the loss of all he had, was moving. He was a fighter and a survivor. He wasn't wallowing in self pity, being surrounded by family and medical staff, proving that he could make it, with a lot of training, but life's worth it.
Lydia was hiring as his nurse. Seeing how she had to deal with the pain, sorrow was heartbreaking. Having Ryan as a client was a beginning of something new. Like they clicked.
She was a fighter too, definitely wanted to move on, but the wounds were still deeply opened. She has no idea how she's gonna survive.
The magic happened when she came to this town, where people were caring for each other and stick together.
Lydia and Ryan have a great and entertaining banter. I liked their sarcastic and humorous tone, the way I testified the evolution of their relationship; from nurse-client, to friends and then as a couple.
Lydia was definitely struggling to remain professional, but could she pass the opportunity for a second chance at love?
It wasn't like insta love; but more as they were healing together, helped them along the path to a better life. They were strong together.
I couldn't put it down, totally enhanced by their story, with lovers reunited by a forever lobster kind of love! It was the perfect blend of sexy and funny moments, emotional ones, and a great off the charts chemistry!
June 8, 2015
This is a great story that had me laughing, crying, and enjoying every second!!!
Lydia had the life many dream of; a loving husband, a sweet son, and a job she enjoyed. Then one day it was taken away in the blink of an eye. A drunk driver annihilated any dreams she had of growing old with her husband and watching her two year old son grow up, graduate high-school, get married, and have a family of his own. She became a shell of her former self and decided she had to do something, had to move on.
Ryan was living his dream as the captain of his own fishing boat, with a crew that was more like family than shipmates. His life too was suddenly upended when a freak storm hit, throwing him off the boat and nearly taking his life. He must now learn how to live life as a paraplegic and not drown in his own sorrows.
Somehow, maybe it was fate or maybe it was a sign from those above, Lydia and Ryan became a part of one another's lives. Lydia being an in-home nurse and Ryan needing the help, were put together by the agency Lydia transferred to upon her move from PA to ME. Through their time together they get to know one another and their relationship blossoms into more than just the normal nurse-client ever would. They realize they have real feelings for each other and must decide where they want things to go and how to proceed.
This is a story that meant the world to me and touched me in a place in my heart that very few books have. My hero, my very dear cousin who is more like a sister, was in an accident nearly 8 years ago and lost the use of her legs as well. She hasn't let this stop her though she learned to thrive, like Ryan, and is the light of every room she enters.
Lydia had the life many dream of; a loving husband, a sweet son, and a job she enjoyed. Then one day it was taken away in the blink of an eye. A drunk driver annihilated any dreams she had of growing old with her husband and watching her two year old son grow up, graduate high-school, get married, and have a family of his own. She became a shell of her former self and decided she had to do something, had to move on.
Ryan was living his dream as the captain of his own fishing boat, with a crew that was more like family than shipmates. His life too was suddenly upended when a freak storm hit, throwing him off the boat and nearly taking his life. He must now learn how to live life as a paraplegic and not drown in his own sorrows.
Somehow, maybe it was fate or maybe it was a sign from those above, Lydia and Ryan became a part of one another's lives. Lydia being an in-home nurse and Ryan needing the help, were put together by the agency Lydia transferred to upon her move from PA to ME. Through their time together they get to know one another and their relationship blossoms into more than just the normal nurse-client ever would. They realize they have real feelings for each other and must decide where they want things to go and how to proceed.
This is a story that meant the world to me and touched me in a place in my heart that very few books have. My hero, my very dear cousin who is more like a sister, was in an accident nearly 8 years ago and lost the use of her legs as well. She hasn't let this stop her though she learned to thrive, like Ryan, and is the light of every room she enters.
June 8, 2015
Wow Forever: A Lobster Kind of Love is a great read. It's great inspirational story. I was expecting a romance novel but this story is way more than a romance novel.
Ryan is a fisherman who loves the sea. He suffers an accident which leaves him able to walk. He is a strong and independent guy. His new situation of being stuck in a wheelchair does not sit well with him, he struggles to come to terms with it.
Lydia has lost her husband and son in an accident. She's a mess and needs a change of scenery. She moved to Maine. She is a nurse. When Ryan returns home form rehab, Lydia is his nurse. Lydia is an amazing nurse and go above and beyond to make sure Ryan gets the things he needs.
This story is very well written. The character seem so real. One of the biggest part that really made the story for me was how when Ryan returns home and he realizes that he can't get his chair into some of his rooms. At that point I was sold on this amazing story. The authors did a wonderful job bringing to light things like doorways that without experience with a wheelchair you take for granted.
I fell in love with Ryan and Lydia's story. I was waiting for the romance between them to spark. Of course when the spark of romance becomes more there are some bumps in the road for them.
This amazing story is a must read!!
A copy was received for a review.
Ryan is a fisherman who loves the sea. He suffers an accident which leaves him able to walk. He is a strong and independent guy. His new situation of being stuck in a wheelchair does not sit well with him, he struggles to come to terms with it.
Lydia has lost her husband and son in an accident. She's a mess and needs a change of scenery. She moved to Maine. She is a nurse. When Ryan returns home form rehab, Lydia is his nurse. Lydia is an amazing nurse and go above and beyond to make sure Ryan gets the things he needs.
This story is very well written. The character seem so real. One of the biggest part that really made the story for me was how when Ryan returns home and he realizes that he can't get his chair into some of his rooms. At that point I was sold on this amazing story. The authors did a wonderful job bringing to light things like doorways that without experience with a wheelchair you take for granted.
I fell in love with Ryan and Lydia's story. I was waiting for the romance between them to spark. Of course when the spark of romance becomes more there are some bumps in the road for them.
This amazing story is a must read!!
A copy was received for a review.
June 8, 2015
A Great Debut Novel
I am really glad that I got the chance to review this book. It truly is a beautiful story, full of emotions, and so well written that you get the feeling that you are experiencing with the characters, not just reading about them. It really is s unique storyline which I totally loved. It is a very slow building sweet romance, between two people who have both been struggling in the aftermath of tragedy. I absolutely fell in love with Ryan and Lydia. Ryan is sweet, and witty, and strong in that he refuses to let his handicap take him over. And Lydia is such a strong woman, a fighter after being broken by the tragic loss if her family. Bravo to these authors, they have really created something special! I was given a complimentary copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
I am really glad that I got the chance to review this book. It truly is a beautiful story, full of emotions, and so well written that you get the feeling that you are experiencing with the characters, not just reading about them. It really is s unique storyline which I totally loved. It is a very slow building sweet romance, between two people who have both been struggling in the aftermath of tragedy. I absolutely fell in love with Ryan and Lydia. Ryan is sweet, and witty, and strong in that he refuses to let his handicap take him over. And Lydia is such a strong woman, a fighter after being broken by the tragic loss if her family. Bravo to these authors, they have really created something special! I was given a complimentary copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
September 11, 2019
DNF at 49%
My opinion and why it did not work for me.
Too much detail about everything. All the information was given to 36% could have been explained in 4 pages. The hero and heroine do not even meet until 36%. I got bored and annoyed with all the details. Even after the hero and heroine meet, there was still so much info that was irreverent to the story.
There was more dialogue with secondary characters than with the MCs. How can I connect?!?!? The author was probably trying to set up the story with all the info, but it took too long. The characters’ feelings about irrelevant things could have been explained in a few pages.
At first, I was worried that the heroine would be pining the entire book, but that was not even an issue. She missed her family, but all her sorrow got lost in useless dialogue.
Call an editor!
My opinion and why it did not work for me.
Too much detail about everything. All the information was given to 36% could have been explained in 4 pages. The hero and heroine do not even meet until 36%. I got bored and annoyed with all the details. Even after the hero and heroine meet, there was still so much info that was irreverent to the story.
There was more dialogue with secondary characters than with the MCs. How can I connect?!?!? The author was probably trying to set up the story with all the info, but it took too long. The characters’ feelings about irrelevant things could have been explained in a few pages.
At first, I was worried that the heroine would be pining the entire book, but that was not even an issue. She missed her family, but all her sorrow got lost in useless dialogue.
Call an editor!
June 13, 2015
I finished this book right before bedtime and let me just say... This story is one you need to drop what you are doing for.
The story of Ryan and Lydia is one told by author who know what they are talking about. Ryan is brought to life. I kid you not, I was like who is he and where can I find him I need to hug him. I need to tell him his story of strength and determination is inspiring.
The dynamic duo, Jody Pardo and Jennifer Tocheny have given us more than a book boyfriend. Ryan will be remembered for years to come.
Lydia is a strong and well written character who has a past. One she needs a fresh start from. Her salvation is Ryan. Funny because she's there to help him.
Ladies, thank you for writing a book that is worthy of our time. Thank you for writing from the heart and thank you for showing people with disabilities dignity.
Bravo, you chicas kicked ass.
#5stars
#AbsolutelyMustRead
The story of Ryan and Lydia is one told by author who know what they are talking about. Ryan is brought to life. I kid you not, I was like who is he and where can I find him I need to hug him. I need to tell him his story of strength and determination is inspiring.
The dynamic duo, Jody Pardo and Jennifer Tocheny have given us more than a book boyfriend. Ryan will be remembered for years to come.
Lydia is a strong and well written character who has a past. One she needs a fresh start from. Her salvation is Ryan. Funny because she's there to help him.
Ladies, thank you for writing a book that is worthy of our time. Thank you for writing from the heart and thank you for showing people with disabilities dignity.
Bravo, you chicas kicked ass.
#5stars
#AbsolutelyMustRead
June 12, 2015
Forever: A Lobster Kind of Love is a story about two people starting over for different reasons. For Ryan, life as he knew it has changed and Lydia is seeking a fresh start after a tragic event. If you are looking for an refreshing read then add this to you to be read list.
June 9, 2015
My Rating: B
My Review:
I'm always nervous when I agree to read and review a debut novel. Sometimes the gamble pays off and I have a fabulous read and sometimes I have to write that dreaded DNF letter that I hate. Luckily, this book was a great gamble. I really enjoyed this story.
Ryan is a lobster fisherman who ends up as a paraplegic after a boating accident. The story starts with him waking up after his accident and chronicles the next year and a half to two years of his life.
Lydia is a home health nurse whose husband and son were killed in a drunk driving accident. She's from Pennsylvania and not coping well, so she moves to Maine to start over and Ryan is her full-time job.
The book has a fairly slow start as Ryan and Lydia don't meet until about a quarter of the way into the book. But that works because it gives the reader a chance to get to know the characters and the issues that they are each dealing with. And they both have pretty horrible and painful back stories, but that makes the payoff when they begin to settle together and have real fun more satisfying. I loved getting to see that development as they each moved back to happy again.
The book is chock-full of little gems that made me smile:
*Ryan's obsession with peanut butter
*Lydia's reading and little easter eggs of other author books
*the authors really integrated the lives of their cover models into their book and I loved that...both Craig's Rise to Alpha initiative and Watts Construction for Jami...I smiled every time I came across one of these gems
*and the Rise to Alpha needs its own focus. I loved how Craig modified Ryan's house. The visuals of all the bars and him using them were fabulous.
*oh, and I really loved the little town and Lydia's landlord...such a sweet little lady. The town is fabulous in how they welcoming they are...although, that seemed at odds with the fact that Ryan just got home and didn't have a single person come by to check on him those first few days.
The book is told in alternating 1st person POV's, which I love. I really like this style because it gives the reader a chance to get to know both the main characters really well. Although be warned, if you're a writing nazi, there were a few problem tense issues (switching between present and past) in the writing...nothing major, but that first 15% of the book was a tiny bit rougher than the rest when you could see the authors finally settled into their groove. It does smooth out, so give the book a chance and keep reading.
Overall, this was an amazing debut novel for this author pairing. There were a few minor issues that just come from lack of experience, but the story was entertaining and engaging and way overshadowed those minor things. I think both these authors have a GREAT future in store. I definitely plan to keep my eye on what they are doing.
I received a complimentary copy of this book in return for an honest review.
My Review:
I'm always nervous when I agree to read and review a debut novel. Sometimes the gamble pays off and I have a fabulous read and sometimes I have to write that dreaded DNF letter that I hate. Luckily, this book was a great gamble. I really enjoyed this story.
Ryan is a lobster fisherman who ends up as a paraplegic after a boating accident. The story starts with him waking up after his accident and chronicles the next year and a half to two years of his life.
Lydia is a home health nurse whose husband and son were killed in a drunk driving accident. She's from Pennsylvania and not coping well, so she moves to Maine to start over and Ryan is her full-time job.
The book has a fairly slow start as Ryan and Lydia don't meet until about a quarter of the way into the book. But that works because it gives the reader a chance to get to know the characters and the issues that they are each dealing with. And they both have pretty horrible and painful back stories, but that makes the payoff when they begin to settle together and have real fun more satisfying. I loved getting to see that development as they each moved back to happy again.
The book is chock-full of little gems that made me smile:
*Ryan's obsession with peanut butter
*Lydia's reading and little easter eggs of other author books
*the authors really integrated the lives of their cover models into their book and I loved that...both Craig's Rise to Alpha initiative and Watts Construction for Jami...I smiled every time I came across one of these gems
*and the Rise to Alpha needs its own focus. I loved how Craig modified Ryan's house. The visuals of all the bars and him using them were fabulous.
*oh, and I really loved the little town and Lydia's landlord...such a sweet little lady. The town is fabulous in how they welcoming they are...although, that seemed at odds with the fact that Ryan just got home and didn't have a single person come by to check on him those first few days.
The book is told in alternating 1st person POV's, which I love. I really like this style because it gives the reader a chance to get to know both the main characters really well. Although be warned, if you're a writing nazi, there were a few problem tense issues (switching between present and past) in the writing...nothing major, but that first 15% of the book was a tiny bit rougher than the rest when you could see the authors finally settled into their groove. It does smooth out, so give the book a chance and keep reading.
Overall, this was an amazing debut novel for this author pairing. There were a few minor issues that just come from lack of experience, but the story was entertaining and engaging and way overshadowed those minor things. I think both these authors have a GREAT future in store. I definitely plan to keep my eye on what they are doing.
I received a complimentary copy of this book in return for an honest review.
June 8, 2015
This was a great debut novel. It's an entertaining read, great for the beach or poolside. Romance lovers will enjoy this story.
Lydia and Ryan are both facing major life changes. Lydia's husband and son were killed in an accident, and she makes the decision to move to a small town in Maine. Ryan is injured in a boating accident, and after about a year in rehab, he is heading home, partially paralyzed. Lydia happens to be a nurse and her move coincides with Ryan's homecoming, so she is placed with him. Their story unfolds and they find their attraction is becoming hard to put aside. The story is sweet with a little bit of steam. It's a story of survival and learning to accept things and move on with your life.
There were several strengths to the story and the writing style. Even though the story is told from the first person point of view, you never lost sight of who was speaking. It was very well organized, which was much appreciated. What I enjoyed most was even though the characters were down on their luck and in really rough spots in their lives, they weren't angst-ridden and whiny about it. They both had decent attitudes, and even the occasional breakdown didn't make you want to slit your wrists. Lydia finds strength in her friends, and with the help of the boardinghouse owner, she finds her place in the community. Ryan is the kind of guy that you can't help but have a crush on. He has an amazing can-do attitude that just makes you smile.
I think there are a few places the plot could have been expanded to explain a little more and I would have liked to see more interactions between Ryan and Lydia as they gave into their attraction. I also think the tag line "Lobsters mate for life. Lobster love is forever" could have been somehow incorporated into the story. Ryan was a lobster fisherman before the accident, and this would have been a great thing to add into the story. To be honest I was expecting it and was a little disappointed that it wasn't mentioned at all.
I give this story a solid 4.5 out of 5 stars. If other novels were written, say, about Lydia's two best friends, I would definitely pick them up.
I received a copy of this story in exchange for an honest review.
Lydia and Ryan are both facing major life changes. Lydia's husband and son were killed in an accident, and she makes the decision to move to a small town in Maine. Ryan is injured in a boating accident, and after about a year in rehab, he is heading home, partially paralyzed. Lydia happens to be a nurse and her move coincides with Ryan's homecoming, so she is placed with him. Their story unfolds and they find their attraction is becoming hard to put aside. The story is sweet with a little bit of steam. It's a story of survival and learning to accept things and move on with your life.
There were several strengths to the story and the writing style. Even though the story is told from the first person point of view, you never lost sight of who was speaking. It was very well organized, which was much appreciated. What I enjoyed most was even though the characters were down on their luck and in really rough spots in their lives, they weren't angst-ridden and whiny about it. They both had decent attitudes, and even the occasional breakdown didn't make you want to slit your wrists. Lydia finds strength in her friends, and with the help of the boardinghouse owner, she finds her place in the community. Ryan is the kind of guy that you can't help but have a crush on. He has an amazing can-do attitude that just makes you smile.
I think there are a few places the plot could have been expanded to explain a little more and I would have liked to see more interactions between Ryan and Lydia as they gave into their attraction. I also think the tag line "Lobsters mate for life. Lobster love is forever" could have been somehow incorporated into the story. Ryan was a lobster fisherman before the accident, and this would have been a great thing to add into the story. To be honest I was expecting it and was a little disappointed that it wasn't mentioned at all.
I give this story a solid 4.5 out of 5 stars. If other novels were written, say, about Lydia's two best friends, I would definitely pick them up.
I received a copy of this story in exchange for an honest review.
June 7, 2015
4 Lobster Stars
As a debut book, I didn’t know what to expect when I picked this up. I was blown away with the unique storyline and captivating characters. It’s refreshing to read something different and unique when you read so many stories with the same concept of a story.
Ryan is a fisherman who becomes handicapped while at sea. Lydia is a widow and mother grieving for her family.
‘Sometimes the best thing you can do is not think, not wonder, not imagine, and not obsess. Just breathe and have faith that everything will work out for the best.’
Both Ryan and Lydia have lots to overcome. Both have their own fears and need to basically start over the best they know how but together they have the potential to help each other come back to the land of the living.
This story is about how Ryan learns to cope and live as a handicapped man and how Lydia learns to live after grieving and move forward like her family would want.
The town of Eastport, Maine is where I would love to live. The people are so welcoming, caring and sweet. Like Ethel, Lydia’s new landlady. She’s an old woman with wisdom beyond Lydia’s years.
“Life changes every minute, every day. You look for love, you find love, you lose love, you laugh, you cry, you have your ups and downs. You love life, you hate life. But in all of everything, you find yourself going on with life, no matter what is thrown at you.”
Lydia and Ryan’s story was sweet. It was a slow build up. They went on a journey of sorts to find themselves and each other.
‘Today when he looked at me with those steel blue eyes, I saw a hungry man, a lustful man who hungered for me.’
“Now do you see me? This is what you do to me. I’m a grown ass man, Lydia. I’m a man who wants to f**k you out of your thoughts until there is no doubts of my intentions. I want you with me all the time.”
Can you say hot? Ryan’s an Alpha male at his finest.
For a debut novel Jennifer and Jody did an excellent job. They captivated me from the beginning till the very end and I fell in love with Lydia and Ryan’s story.
As a debut book, I didn’t know what to expect when I picked this up. I was blown away with the unique storyline and captivating characters. It’s refreshing to read something different and unique when you read so many stories with the same concept of a story.
Ryan is a fisherman who becomes handicapped while at sea. Lydia is a widow and mother grieving for her family.
‘Sometimes the best thing you can do is not think, not wonder, not imagine, and not obsess. Just breathe and have faith that everything will work out for the best.’
Both Ryan and Lydia have lots to overcome. Both have their own fears and need to basically start over the best they know how but together they have the potential to help each other come back to the land of the living.
This story is about how Ryan learns to cope and live as a handicapped man and how Lydia learns to live after grieving and move forward like her family would want.
The town of Eastport, Maine is where I would love to live. The people are so welcoming, caring and sweet. Like Ethel, Lydia’s new landlady. She’s an old woman with wisdom beyond Lydia’s years.
“Life changes every minute, every day. You look for love, you find love, you lose love, you laugh, you cry, you have your ups and downs. You love life, you hate life. But in all of everything, you find yourself going on with life, no matter what is thrown at you.”
Lydia and Ryan’s story was sweet. It was a slow build up. They went on a journey of sorts to find themselves and each other.
‘Today when he looked at me with those steel blue eyes, I saw a hungry man, a lustful man who hungered for me.’
“Now do you see me? This is what you do to me. I’m a grown ass man, Lydia. I’m a man who wants to f**k you out of your thoughts until there is no doubts of my intentions. I want you with me all the time.”
Can you say hot? Ryan’s an Alpha male at his finest.
For a debut novel Jennifer and Jody did an excellent job. They captivated me from the beginning till the very end and I fell in love with Lydia and Ryan’s story.
June 15, 2015
This story is written in both Ryan and Lydia’s point of view. And we can feel her anguish over the loss of her boys, and his determination to not let the loss of his legs rob him of life. And in this there is a very valuable lesson. His body is broken but his spirit is strong, and her body is strong but her spirit is broken. And though she thinks she’s helping him out, he’s doing so much to mend her spirit.
There are characters outside of these two that I love. I LOVE the way they portrayed Craig Geirish. (A real man BTW!) He cracked me up. Eat, sleep, work out. LAWL! Also, loved Ethel. That old lady had some spunk!
The writing duo of Jody Pardo and Jennifer Tocheny is really well meshed. They’re styles are so similar that I couldn’t tell you who wrote what. Maybe given some time, I might be able to pick up the subtle differences, but otherwise, this book flows very smoothly. And they tackled a very uncommon story. Rarely have I ever seen a story where a person has a disability such as paralysis in the book, let alone in the hero of the story. And I think they did a great job at handling issue without making it something that either hindered him to the point of being lifeless, or making him so superhuman that he overcame it. They allowed him to struggle and to overcome it on his own. And that was a nice journey in this book that wasn’t expected. So would I recommend...(https://textuallove.wordpress.com/201...) Read the rest of the review behind the link.
There are characters outside of these two that I love. I LOVE the way they portrayed Craig Geirish. (A real man BTW!) He cracked me up. Eat, sleep, work out. LAWL! Also, loved Ethel. That old lady had some spunk!
The writing duo of Jody Pardo and Jennifer Tocheny is really well meshed. They’re styles are so similar that I couldn’t tell you who wrote what. Maybe given some time, I might be able to pick up the subtle differences, but otherwise, this book flows very smoothly. And they tackled a very uncommon story. Rarely have I ever seen a story where a person has a disability such as paralysis in the book, let alone in the hero of the story. And I think they did a great job at handling issue without making it something that either hindered him to the point of being lifeless, or making him so superhuman that he overcame it. They allowed him to struggle and to overcome it on his own. And that was a nice journey in this book that wasn’t expected. So would I recommend...(https://textuallove.wordpress.com/201...) Read the rest of the review behind the link.
June 12, 2015
Forever, a Lobster kind of love really strikes at your heart. It is emotional and heart breaking but also shows the inner strengths of people you often don't see until they are out in a situation they never expect.
Ryan awakens in a hospital bed, unable to do anything for himself. A boating accident has left him handicapped. Months of Therapy and rehab get him back into his home but he still requires daily assistance.
Lydia has left her hometown seeking a new beginning, left widowed and motherless after a drunk driver steals her family from her. Though she is still suffering through her loss, Lydia recognizes she had to walk away from her previous life if she has any chance of finding happy again.
When Lydia and Ryan meet, it's instant friendship. She wants to help him any way she can and Ryan wants to appreciate all things in his life. As time goes on, Ryan finds himself feeling more for the sweet nurse.
I really enjoyed how this story showed a slow build up for these two. Both hurting in their own ways, they needed time to grieve their pasts and also to allow themselves to move on.
I really loved the side characters, but most especially Ethel. She really added an extra touch to the small town feel.
This story was emotional, sweet, funny, painful and a whole gamut of other feelings evoked upon reading. I felt heart-touched and warm at finishing this beautiful story.
Ryan awakens in a hospital bed, unable to do anything for himself. A boating accident has left him handicapped. Months of Therapy and rehab get him back into his home but he still requires daily assistance.
Lydia has left her hometown seeking a new beginning, left widowed and motherless after a drunk driver steals her family from her. Though she is still suffering through her loss, Lydia recognizes she had to walk away from her previous life if she has any chance of finding happy again.
When Lydia and Ryan meet, it's instant friendship. She wants to help him any way she can and Ryan wants to appreciate all things in his life. As time goes on, Ryan finds himself feeling more for the sweet nurse.
I really enjoyed how this story showed a slow build up for these two. Both hurting in their own ways, they needed time to grieve their pasts and also to allow themselves to move on.
I really loved the side characters, but most especially Ethel. She really added an extra touch to the small town feel.
This story was emotional, sweet, funny, painful and a whole gamut of other feelings evoked upon reading. I felt heart-touched and warm at finishing this beautiful story.
June 9, 2015
What a heartwarming contemporary romance with a different twist than your normal book.
Ryan wakes up with his legs not working after a fishing accident, he now has to learn to live from a wheel chair, without his legs.
Lydia recently lost her husband and baby boy to a drunk truck driver, she has to learn to live without them. She packs up her things and moves to Maine where she becomes an in-home nurse to Ryan.
This story gives you warm fuzzies right from the start, you just want to grab onto Ryan and Lydia and take all their pain and injuries away. The bond formed between the two makes this story a very delightful read. All the new town family are wonderful and would be great to get a more complete back ground in series about these lobster fishermen. and to get a lobster roll, because now i want to try one :P
A few things that bothered me were in wording. Characters were described several times, once is enough. Lydia is always referenced as a nurse, yet is doing more of a home health aide's job. A nurse is not hired to clean and cook, these are the jobs of a less well paid for aide. My grandfather spent years bedridden as a vegetable and had an array of nurses and Aides in. the nurse is for things that need education, like medication, catheters, iv's, etc. Paying her 10 hrs a day to clean and cook is not going to fly by any insurance company.
Ryan wakes up with his legs not working after a fishing accident, he now has to learn to live from a wheel chair, without his legs.
Lydia recently lost her husband and baby boy to a drunk truck driver, she has to learn to live without them. She packs up her things and moves to Maine where she becomes an in-home nurse to Ryan.
This story gives you warm fuzzies right from the start, you just want to grab onto Ryan and Lydia and take all their pain and injuries away. The bond formed between the two makes this story a very delightful read. All the new town family are wonderful and would be great to get a more complete back ground in series about these lobster fishermen. and to get a lobster roll, because now i want to try one :P
A few things that bothered me were in wording. Characters were described several times, once is enough. Lydia is always referenced as a nurse, yet is doing more of a home health aide's job. A nurse is not hired to clean and cook, these are the jobs of a less well paid for aide. My grandfather spent years bedridden as a vegetable and had an array of nurses and Aides in. the nurse is for things that need education, like medication, catheters, iv's, etc. Paying her 10 hrs a day to clean and cook is not going to fly by any insurance company.
June 10, 2015
Five Star Read
I was given a complimentary cooy in exchange for an honest review.
Lydia's life came to halt when her husband and son was killed by a drunk driver.
Leaving behind painful memories she returns to the one happy place she knows and thats Eastport Maine.
Starting over in a wheelchair is the last thing Ryan ever expected to have happen to him.
A lobster fisherman for life he expects to be out on the ocean not acting as a buoy.
When Lydia becomes his home care nurse he never realized that Lydia might be the light at the end of his tunnel.
Can Ryan and Lydia mend there broken hearts and be together?
Or will they forever be locked in a cage?
Lobsters mate for life and love forever.
This is an amazing sweet read about overcoming tragedies and finding unexpected love where you least expect it.
Ryan even though he is in a wheelchair has a pretty good sense of humor.
Poor Lydia what she went thru ripped my heart out.
All in all this was a wonderful story about second chances and finding your lobster kind of love.
Ryan really never let him being in a wheelchair bring him down and found some creative ways to take care of himself till Lydia became his nurse.
The secondary characters really added to the storyline. They didn't overshadow Ryan and Lydia story.
Reviewed by Heather S.
I was given a complimentary cooy in exchange for an honest review.
Lydia's life came to halt when her husband and son was killed by a drunk driver.
Leaving behind painful memories she returns to the one happy place she knows and thats Eastport Maine.
Starting over in a wheelchair is the last thing Ryan ever expected to have happen to him.
A lobster fisherman for life he expects to be out on the ocean not acting as a buoy.
When Lydia becomes his home care nurse he never realized that Lydia might be the light at the end of his tunnel.
Can Ryan and Lydia mend there broken hearts and be together?
Or will they forever be locked in a cage?
Lobsters mate for life and love forever.
This is an amazing sweet read about overcoming tragedies and finding unexpected love where you least expect it.
Ryan even though he is in a wheelchair has a pretty good sense of humor.
Poor Lydia what she went thru ripped my heart out.
All in all this was a wonderful story about second chances and finding your lobster kind of love.
Ryan really never let him being in a wheelchair bring him down and found some creative ways to take care of himself till Lydia became his nurse.
The secondary characters really added to the storyline. They didn't overshadow Ryan and Lydia story.
Reviewed by Heather S.
June 14, 2015
4 out of 5 stars
This book was short and sweet. I finished it in a day and really loved how the characters came together and found the path they were meant for thru each other.
Ryan is in a boating accident and loses the use of his legs as a result. He spends a great deal of time in the hospital and rehab facility before going home and needing a full time nurse to help him at home.
Lydia has dealt with her share of tragedy as well. Her young son and husband were killed by a drunk driver and she feels the only way she’ll get beyond it is to move away from the small town gossip and make a new life for herself.
They come together out of necessity, but they really found each other over time. I loved watching their worlds combine and seeing how much they truly cared for each other.
If I had a complaint, it would be that I felt it was a little rushed. I think there would have been a little more struggle for Ryan and I think Lydia would have had to tell him more about her past before they really moved anywhere with things, BUT that being said, I really enjoyed the story and connections.
I had all the feelings with this book and hope to read more about some of the other characters in the future.
This book was short and sweet. I finished it in a day and really loved how the characters came together and found the path they were meant for thru each other.
Ryan is in a boating accident and loses the use of his legs as a result. He spends a great deal of time in the hospital and rehab facility before going home and needing a full time nurse to help him at home.
Lydia has dealt with her share of tragedy as well. Her young son and husband were killed by a drunk driver and she feels the only way she’ll get beyond it is to move away from the small town gossip and make a new life for herself.
They come together out of necessity, but they really found each other over time. I loved watching their worlds combine and seeing how much they truly cared for each other.
If I had a complaint, it would be that I felt it was a little rushed. I think there would have been a little more struggle for Ryan and I think Lydia would have had to tell him more about her past before they really moved anywhere with things, BUT that being said, I really enjoyed the story and connections.
I had all the feelings with this book and hope to read more about some of the other characters in the future.
June 10, 2015
Where do I begin ??!!
This is a fabulous story from two brand new authors. Kudos girls... what a fabulous job you did here. Ryan and Lydia are just amazing. They have both been through tremendous heartache and pain in their lives and separately they each wondered if they should just give up... but together .... OH MY GOD !! They make you laugh, cry, scream and then laugh some more. Ryan's sense of humor is just amazing, you cant help but love him.
Lydia, well i usually hate chicks, but you really cant hate Lydia. Shes been through hell but she isnt a whiny annoying woman you want to smack. She lives and grows and learns to be strong without become an uber-toad b**ch from hell.
The story is very well written and the characters work so well together. Everything makes sense and nothing goes out of its timeline. And much to my surprise, the medical lingo is spot on. I found nothing written wrong or out of place.
The grammar and spelling are spot on and its just an enjoyable flow and nothing forced or out of place. its just an really enjoyable read and you can do this without the aide of alcohol and donuts (Wink)
I would absolutely recommend this book and i cant wait for more from these two ladies
This is a fabulous story from two brand new authors. Kudos girls... what a fabulous job you did here. Ryan and Lydia are just amazing. They have both been through tremendous heartache and pain in their lives and separately they each wondered if they should just give up... but together .... OH MY GOD !! They make you laugh, cry, scream and then laugh some more. Ryan's sense of humor is just amazing, you cant help but love him.
Lydia, well i usually hate chicks, but you really cant hate Lydia. Shes been through hell but she isnt a whiny annoying woman you want to smack. She lives and grows and learns to be strong without become an uber-toad b**ch from hell.
The story is very well written and the characters work so well together. Everything makes sense and nothing goes out of its timeline. And much to my surprise, the medical lingo is spot on. I found nothing written wrong or out of place.
The grammar and spelling are spot on and its just an enjoyable flow and nothing forced or out of place. its just an really enjoyable read and you can do this without the aide of alcohol and donuts (Wink)
I would absolutely recommend this book and i cant wait for more from these two ladies
June 7, 2015
Lydia and Ryan have both had to overcome adversity and a terrible hand of cards life has thrown at them. For Lydia, she lost the love of her life and only son to a drunk driver. Ryan, captain of a ship, was paralyzed doing what he loved on the sea. Dealing with life’s uncertainties, these two trudge into a brand new world, with brand new lives.
Moving to Maine to start over, Lydia, meets Ryan when she is assigned his hoe health nurse. From the very beginning, sparks fly between the two. It’s so detrimental to Lydia, however, to remain professional, no matter what she is feeling.
Overcoming adversity in life, both go through trials and tribulations, finding pieces of each other that had been missing for a long time, and fitting pieces into the puzzle of life. The plot flows beautifully and the characters are so well written, you love them from the beginning. As a reader, you are rooting for the two to realize what is right in front of them: their forever lobster. These two hit it out of the park and this is one you won’t want to put down once you start (I surely didn’t!!).
Review by Rosalie Belle with Guilty Pleasures Book Reviews
Moving to Maine to start over, Lydia, meets Ryan when she is assigned his hoe health nurse. From the very beginning, sparks fly between the two. It’s so detrimental to Lydia, however, to remain professional, no matter what she is feeling.
Overcoming adversity in life, both go through trials and tribulations, finding pieces of each other that had been missing for a long time, and fitting pieces into the puzzle of life. The plot flows beautifully and the characters are so well written, you love them from the beginning. As a reader, you are rooting for the two to realize what is right in front of them: their forever lobster. These two hit it out of the park and this is one you won’t want to put down once you start (I surely didn’t!!).
Review by Rosalie Belle with Guilty Pleasures Book Reviews
June 9, 2015
I recieved an arc to read and review.
I am a total sucker for a love story and when there's drama involved it intrigues me even more.
Sure the title is a little unusual, but I think its really a sweet notion about lobsters.
Ryan's struggle with his tragic life changing accident is harrowing to read, it makes you really feel for him. How awful must that be to handle? To have your entire life change like that? To feel like you have no future? Jody and Jennifer totally captured the feelings and helped to answer those exact questions.
Lydia's devastating circumstances hit home a little more with me because I have kids and a husband that I love dearly and it actually upset me reading the book and wondering how it would feel to go through that traumatic experience. Again Jody and Jennifer embraced how this would effect someone and it really affected me making me cry in places.
Overall I found this a lovely story to read. It's well written and an emotional rollercoaster at times, which I actually enjoy. And a hea which is always appreciated and loved.
A lovely heartwarming book that I would recommend most definitely.
I am a total sucker for a love story and when there's drama involved it intrigues me even more.
Sure the title is a little unusual, but I think its really a sweet notion about lobsters.
Ryan's struggle with his tragic life changing accident is harrowing to read, it makes you really feel for him. How awful must that be to handle? To have your entire life change like that? To feel like you have no future? Jody and Jennifer totally captured the feelings and helped to answer those exact questions.
Lydia's devastating circumstances hit home a little more with me because I have kids and a husband that I love dearly and it actually upset me reading the book and wondering how it would feel to go through that traumatic experience. Again Jody and Jennifer embraced how this would effect someone and it really affected me making me cry in places.
Overall I found this a lovely story to read. It's well written and an emotional rollercoaster at times, which I actually enjoy. And a hea which is always appreciated and loved.
A lovely heartwarming book that I would recommend most definitely.
June 13, 2015
This was an amazing surprise. A very different love story.
There is something amazing when stories of loss come around and people find their purpose in the sudden changes in their lives. Lydia finds herself a widow all of a sudden and doesn't know how to move on. The only way she finds it in her to do it is to move, so getting a transfer from her company she moves to Eastport, Maine, where her life will never be the same.
There is also a great thing about overcoming adversities. Ryan is a very hardworking man, a fisherman that has an accident and finds himself having to get used to a new life full of obstacles. But this man is stubborn and this trait may help him with more than his handicap down the road
Jody and Jenn bring us just that a very different, but great story of love loss and overcoming adversity.
This is a first for this two, but I sure as heck hope is not the only book they decide to write. This are two amazingly talented women, that took a chance on writing a unique story and it is a great success I can asure.
Love this and hope to read more from you in a near future.
There is something amazing when stories of loss come around and people find their purpose in the sudden changes in their lives. Lydia finds herself a widow all of a sudden and doesn't know how to move on. The only way she finds it in her to do it is to move, so getting a transfer from her company she moves to Eastport, Maine, where her life will never be the same.
There is also a great thing about overcoming adversities. Ryan is a very hardworking man, a fisherman that has an accident and finds himself having to get used to a new life full of obstacles. But this man is stubborn and this trait may help him with more than his handicap down the road
Jody and Jenn bring us just that a very different, but great story of love loss and overcoming adversity.
This is a first for this two, but I sure as heck hope is not the only book they decide to write. This are two amazingly talented women, that took a chance on writing a unique story and it is a great success I can asure.
Love this and hope to read more from you in a near future.
June 8, 2015
A Sweet Read About Overcoming Life's Tragedies
Forever: A Lobster Kind of Love was a sweet surprise, as it not only told a beautiful story about a growing relationship, but it focused on opening ones heart and mind to rising above tragedy and looking at all life has to offer. I appreciated the stages of the relationship that gave a realistic perspective to a powerful romance and love that could withstand the test of time.
Lydia has lost her husband and young son to an automobile accident. Searching for a new start and a possibility to move on and heal, she leaves her life behind to move to Eastport, Maine, to work at a home health care nurse.
Ryan is a lobster fisherman who suffers a tragic accident at sea that leaves him paralyzed. After a year of rehabilitation, Ryan must return home to learn how to live and care for himself in a new way. As the two are pulled together in a working relationship, the friendship and support they show for one another builds, offering a new life neither one expected.
I was given an ARC for my honest review.
Forever: A Lobster Kind of Love was a sweet surprise, as it not only told a beautiful story about a growing relationship, but it focused on opening ones heart and mind to rising above tragedy and looking at all life has to offer. I appreciated the stages of the relationship that gave a realistic perspective to a powerful romance and love that could withstand the test of time.
Lydia has lost her husband and young son to an automobile accident. Searching for a new start and a possibility to move on and heal, she leaves her life behind to move to Eastport, Maine, to work at a home health care nurse.
Ryan is a lobster fisherman who suffers a tragic accident at sea that leaves him paralyzed. After a year of rehabilitation, Ryan must return home to learn how to live and care for himself in a new way. As the two are pulled together in a working relationship, the friendship and support they show for one another builds, offering a new life neither one expected.
I was given an ARC for my honest review.
June 8, 2015
I received an ARC cope of this book in exchange for an honest review.
Let me just start out saying I am pleasanlty surprised by this book. It is just a wonderful story and I truly loved it.
Ryan has had an accident when his boat is caught in a storm, he has been paralyzed. After he endures months oif therapy he is sent home in a wheelchair. Lydia has moved to Eastport to pick up the pieces after she loses her husband and son in a tragic accident. This story is a much more realistic look at romance. It's a slow build up to the romance between Lydia and Ryan. She is his at home nurse, they start their working relationship, and then a friendship that slowly turns into a romantic one. There are soi many emotions you feel with this story and I think it's amazing to be able to read it and feel it at the same time. Once I syarted I just couldn't put it down. I was sad to send it end but am very happy with the ending. I would definitely recommend this for everyone to read.
Review done by Cat for Cat's Guilty Pleasure
http://www.facebook.com/catherinewrig...
Let me just start out saying I am pleasanlty surprised by this book. It is just a wonderful story and I truly loved it.
Ryan has had an accident when his boat is caught in a storm, he has been paralyzed. After he endures months oif therapy he is sent home in a wheelchair. Lydia has moved to Eastport to pick up the pieces after she loses her husband and son in a tragic accident. This story is a much more realistic look at romance. It's a slow build up to the romance between Lydia and Ryan. She is his at home nurse, they start their working relationship, and then a friendship that slowly turns into a romantic one. There are soi many emotions you feel with this story and I think it's amazing to be able to read it and feel it at the same time. Once I syarted I just couldn't put it down. I was sad to send it end but am very happy with the ending. I would definitely recommend this for everyone to read.
Review done by Cat for Cat's Guilty Pleasure
http://www.facebook.com/catherinewrig...
June 7, 2015
Wow!!! I truly didn't know what to expect from this debut novel. But I got more brilliance than I could ever have hoped for. The storyline of this book is so unique, I read a lot and I haven't come across anything else similar to it. So bravo a unique book is hard to find!! I loved both main characters Ryan is full of fun and wit the manner in which he deals with his accident is awe inspiring. I am stealing some of his strength to help with my own disability!!! Lydia has had to deal with loss no Mother should ever have to go through, yet she does it with a silent strength and warm heart. This book is a wonderful slow burner in the area of love, however this is just as it should be for 2 characters whose lives have changed so dramatically. I love all the personal parts you have written into the story very special!! Jody + Jennifer you have both done an excellent job with this book but get writing I need more lol. Happy to award this debut novel 5 wonderful stars!
June 10, 2015
I thoroughly enjoyed reading this lovely story. I was drawn into the story from the first page, I found the narrative to be flowing and totally engrossing.
The story follows Lydia, a widow, grieving for her husband and son, who is moving to a new town to try and rebuild her shattered life. Ryan a Lobster fisherman, who has been paralysed in an accident on his trawler, has to learn to live a life without the use of his legs. Their story joins up when Lydia is designated as his at home nurse after his rehab finishes. Their story continues from there....
I thought the characters of Lydia and Ryan were really likable, they were very real and well written. The story takes you by the hand and leads you on, wrapping you up in their story. I loved Ethel, Lydia's new landlady, I thought she was lovely.
This is a beautiful story, I did cry at times but then I am an emotional reader. If you want lovely heart warming romantic story then this is a definite must read.
The story follows Lydia, a widow, grieving for her husband and son, who is moving to a new town to try and rebuild her shattered life. Ryan a Lobster fisherman, who has been paralysed in an accident on his trawler, has to learn to live a life without the use of his legs. Their story joins up when Lydia is designated as his at home nurse after his rehab finishes. Their story continues from there....
I thought the characters of Lydia and Ryan were really likable, they were very real and well written. The story takes you by the hand and leads you on, wrapping you up in their story. I loved Ethel, Lydia's new landlady, I thought she was lovely.
This is a beautiful story, I did cry at times but then I am an emotional reader. If you want lovely heart warming romantic story then this is a definite must read.
June 7, 2015
Forever: A Lobster Kind of Love is about Ryan, a seaman who survives an accident at sea only to find out he is paralyzed, and Lydia, a woman who is trying to move on from the pain in her past.
I fell in love with Ryan and his quick wit right away. He is funny, sweet and a fighter. Even after losing the ability to walk, Ryan did not give up. He fought to overcome his disability, refusing to wallow in self pity even though he missed life at sea.
Lydia has her own issues she is struggling against. She moved to the small town in Maine where Ryan lived to begin a new life after the death of her family. She seems broken at first, but she is a fighter also.
Once I started reading this book, I couldn't put it down. I absolutely adored everything about it, from the characters in the small town to the captivating story line. I highly recommend it to everyone!
I fell in love with Ryan and his quick wit right away. He is funny, sweet and a fighter. Even after losing the ability to walk, Ryan did not give up. He fought to overcome his disability, refusing to wallow in self pity even though he missed life at sea.
Lydia has her own issues she is struggling against. She moved to the small town in Maine where Ryan lived to begin a new life after the death of her family. She seems broken at first, but she is a fighter also.
Once I started reading this book, I couldn't put it down. I absolutely adored everything about it, from the characters in the small town to the captivating story line. I highly recommend it to everyone!
June 9, 2015
Forever: A Lobster Kind of Love
My Rating 4.5 Lobster Stars
New Authors for me, and boy did they not disappoint this story has romance, and life tragedies that are written with such heartfelt emotion. I enjoyed this story of two people who are trying to get themselves
through what life has thrown at them. The writing is so well done you feel all the emotions of Ryan and Lydia. This book was a page turner and I couldn’t put it down. I read cover to cover it’s that good. This is an excellent debut novel, you would have thought these two ladies have been writing together forever. Jody & Jennifer knocked it out of the park. I recommend you take the time to read this book. I’m looking forward to more Jody & Jennifer!
Received an Advanced copy in exchange for my honest review.
Reviewer for Hellmouth’s Bookblog & Reviews.
My Rating 4.5 Lobster Stars
New Authors for me, and boy did they not disappoint this story has romance, and life tragedies that are written with such heartfelt emotion. I enjoyed this story of two people who are trying to get themselves
through what life has thrown at them. The writing is so well done you feel all the emotions of Ryan and Lydia. This book was a page turner and I couldn’t put it down. I read cover to cover it’s that good. This is an excellent debut novel, you would have thought these two ladies have been writing together forever. Jody & Jennifer knocked it out of the park. I recommend you take the time to read this book. I’m looking forward to more Jody & Jennifer!
Received an Advanced copy in exchange for my honest review.
Reviewer for Hellmouth’s Bookblog & Reviews.
June 9, 2015
I just finished this book a few days ago. It is a great book but I wish it had ended a little differently. I wouldn't call it a cliffhanger but it's almost as annoying. The ending did leave it open for a number two, which I'm hoping is in the works. I love the dynamics of the characters Lydia and Ryan. Their story is actually believable and could happen in real life, I loved that about it. I loved that Lydia moved from one small town to another one, but she fit better in her new home than in her old one. It has a lot to do with the death of her boys. Her heart and soul was broken and the steps she took to fix them were great and very believable. I love that the build up of the relationship was so slow. The book was written very well. I really hope there is going to be a second book. I give this one 5 stars it's a really great book.
June 10, 2015
Tragedy can strike and take away everything you ever loved. But can it make you stronger? Yes! Can it bring you to a future you never thought you would have? Fate it's funny right.
This romance is simply more than just that, it is a story of surviving an overcoming tragedy. The rewards it gives you and the love you can get from you sorrow.
Ryan has lost the use of his legs, with that he has gained a frustration that threatens to overflow.
Lydia has lost her husband and her son. She moves to find a new purpose. Now as Ryan's nurse she finds that purpose and together they find a way to overcome their tragedies.
Inspiring! this book is just that is brings you into their darkness and shows you how they healed each other.
I loved every single sleepless minute of my book hangover!
This romance is simply more than just that, it is a story of surviving an overcoming tragedy. The rewards it gives you and the love you can get from you sorrow.
Ryan has lost the use of his legs, with that he has gained a frustration that threatens to overflow.
Lydia has lost her husband and her son. She moves to find a new purpose. Now as Ryan's nurse she finds that purpose and together they find a way to overcome their tragedies.
Inspiring! this book is just that is brings you into their darkness and shows you how they healed each other.
I loved every single sleepless minute of my book hangover!
June 12, 2015
So Jody Pardo & Jennifer Tocheny’s debut novel Forever: A Lobster Kind of Love was wonderful. You are drawn into Ryan and Lydia’s life from the get go you feel for the loses that they have both sustained. You have Ryan who wants to be seen as more than a man that needs help. You have Lydia who wants a new life but feels like she is cheating on her own. They are both healing in their own way which happens to bring their lives together in Eastport, Maine a small town that the people look out for their own. This book had my emotions from the start I was sad for Lydia’s loss, I could feel the anger and determination in Ryan, then the love that the community shares it was just a great book. Can’t wait till the next this is a five star book all the way.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 73 reviews