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Lifetime #1
In a Lifetime
When Matt lays eyes on Ella, it’s love at first sight. At the very least, lust. But when fate steps in, Matt ends up playing Good Samaritan and losing the girl he wants to his best friend, Sam.
When Ella and Sam marry, Matt leaves the country, desperate to get over the deep feelings he has for his friend’s wife. When he returns, he finds a couple struggling with infertility; cracks appearing in their relationship. Making things worse, his feelings for Ella have intensified.
When you’re in love with your best friend’s wife, whose side do you take when everything falls apart?
When Ella and Sam marry, Matt leaves the country, desperate to get over the deep feelings he has for his friend’s wife. When he returns, he finds a couple struggling with infertility; cracks appearing in their relationship. Making things worse, his feelings for Ella have intensified.
When you’re in love with your best friend’s wife, whose side do you take when everything falls apart?
ebook
First published December 1, 2015
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694 people want to read
About the author
Ariadne Wayne
25 books152 followersNew Zealand writer. Giving writing a go after a very long break. Letting my imagination run free after so long is a bit scary, but here goes!
I can usually be found at my blog, on Twitter or on Facebook. Come and chat! I love stories about real people, with a bit of drama and sometimes a touch of spice. My stories are usually based in little old NZ. :)
I can usually be found at my blog, on Twitter or on Facebook. Come and chat! I love stories about real people, with a bit of drama and sometimes a touch of spice. My stories are usually based in little old NZ. :)
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 53 reviews
July 28, 2019
Matt & Sam have been best friends since they were young and have pretty much inseparable since they met. One night they are hosting a party at their flat and Matt drew the short straw to be the designated sober driver for anyone who needs a ride home. As he watches everyone feel the effects of the alcohol they are enjoying and making out with each other, including Sam, he notices a pretty girl sitting in the corner. As he makes his way over to introduce himself, duty calls. A young woman has had too much to drink and needs a ride home.
As Matt makes his way back to the party, all he can think about is that pretty girl he saw and he hopes she is still there when he returns. To his delight she is but unfortunately she is not alone, she is tangled up with Sam, his best mate. This night is just the beginning of the relationship between Ella and Sam. A love story that Matt will now be a spectator too, wishing it was his own.
Ella is the kindest, sweetest girl that Matt has ever met and no matter what he does, he cannot stop feeling what he does for her. Sam is completely head over heels for Ella and he knows she is the girl he wants to spend the rest of his life with. The three of them end up living together as flat mates until Matt decides enough is enough and heads off overseas to clear his mind and hopefully his attachment to Ella.
Sam & Ella settle into marriage and like most young couples, stumble over a few road bumps along the way. However, things seem to be getting worse for them and neither of them are particularly happy. When Matt returns from his trip after being away for two years, he is shocked to see how unhappy his friends are. It upsets him to see Ella so sad and bereft. He is also disappointed in Sam’s attitude towards it all.
When things come to a head between Sam & Ella, Matt is there for her. Yes, he still has feelings for her and would love to make her his but at the forefront of his mind is taking care of her as she grieves what she has lost with Sam. Matt is the polar opposite of Sam and Ella’s wellbeing is all that matters right now, even it means walking away from the only girl he has ever truly loved.
There is so much more to this story that I haven’t mentioned here, lots of angst that kept me turning the pages and ignoring everything else going on around me :) I love that this story is set in my home country, New Zealand and that the author was influenced by a song written by I Am Giant. My husband is a huge fan of the band and a photo of us kissing features in the music video of the song she listened to writing this book. I have had this book for a few years and I’m so glad I finally found time to read it and I have no regrets about spending my Sunday inhaling this addictive story.
As Matt makes his way back to the party, all he can think about is that pretty girl he saw and he hopes she is still there when he returns. To his delight she is but unfortunately she is not alone, she is tangled up with Sam, his best mate. This night is just the beginning of the relationship between Ella and Sam. A love story that Matt will now be a spectator too, wishing it was his own.
Ella is the kindest, sweetest girl that Matt has ever met and no matter what he does, he cannot stop feeling what he does for her. Sam is completely head over heels for Ella and he knows she is the girl he wants to spend the rest of his life with. The three of them end up living together as flat mates until Matt decides enough is enough and heads off overseas to clear his mind and hopefully his attachment to Ella.
Sam & Ella settle into marriage and like most young couples, stumble over a few road bumps along the way. However, things seem to be getting worse for them and neither of them are particularly happy. When Matt returns from his trip after being away for two years, he is shocked to see how unhappy his friends are. It upsets him to see Ella so sad and bereft. He is also disappointed in Sam’s attitude towards it all.
When things come to a head between Sam & Ella, Matt is there for her. Yes, he still has feelings for her and would love to make her his but at the forefront of his mind is taking care of her as she grieves what she has lost with Sam. Matt is the polar opposite of Sam and Ella’s wellbeing is all that matters right now, even it means walking away from the only girl he has ever truly loved.
There is so much more to this story that I haven’t mentioned here, lots of angst that kept me turning the pages and ignoring everything else going on around me :) I love that this story is set in my home country, New Zealand and that the author was influenced by a song written by I Am Giant. My husband is a huge fan of the band and a photo of us kissing features in the music video of the song she listened to writing this book. I have had this book for a few years and I’m so glad I finally found time to read it and I have no regrets about spending my Sunday inhaling this addictive story.
December 3, 2015
This book... This book is why I love being a blogger! When you sign up for a book....You never know what you're going to get until you start to read it.
Sure... You have the synopsis giving you an idea of what your going to read. But sometimes that doesn't live up to the story.
But, sometimes you run into an unexpected gem.
Something new comes along and just sweeps you off of your feet!
This book is my little gem!
The way this book is told was just so realistic. The way everything unfolded was so spot on. I felt everything these characters went through.
This author did a fantastic job drawing you in and keeping you interested. I totally went into this book thinking one thing and got something totally different.
And I just love that! That after all these books I've read that I can still be surprised and swept off my feet.
In the beginning... I went into this book thinking how it was all going to be played out. When she picked the guy she wanted I felt good about it. Sad for the other guy. But it had been a clean pick.
As I kept reading little things started to pop up here and there. The cracks started to show.
I started to really see all the little differences between the two best friends. And I think Ella did too.
When I found out her side of how she came to pick who she wanted to be with. I was conflicted. I really wished she would have came up with a better system.
Because I felt she was playing both side.
And what I mean by that.... Is Sam would do something or say something she didn't like... Ella would lean on Matt. Plus she would sometimes act like a jealous girlfriend towards Matt. I hated when she would ask Matt personal questions. Or when they had their moments. Because I felt she knew what she was doing.
And it would be so hard on Matt.
Because she was so committed to Sam.
I know it's harsh to say...
But, I felt like she had buyers remorse picking Sam over Matt.
Sam....
Oh boy. I knew right away that he wasn't the one she should have picked. I mean... What he was doing before he met Ella should have given her a clue not to pick him! She saw everything. So it was hard for me to feel sorry for her in the middle of this book (when they got married and when they just started to have their problems). She knew what she was asking for and settling with before she even talked to him.
As I kept reading I truly started to feel for her. And I really started to hate Sam. What he did and the way he acted. I was so shocked!
Sam was acting like big A-Hole.
But, both Matt and Ella should have just opened up their mouths. Who cares how Sam was acting. Like it or not... He would have to be in there lives forever! Ella should've opened her mouth and told sam.
Matt.... I loved him. He was everything. He truly loved Ella. Would do anything for her. And he proved it. Not only to her but to her family.
There was one thing I wished there was more of in this book. I wished we got more about Sam after everything. I mean we get answers. But I wanted more details.
Other than that. I loved this book. I will definitely be telling EVERYONE about this book!
*ARC provided for an honest review*
-Michelle
Sure... You have the synopsis giving you an idea of what your going to read. But sometimes that doesn't live up to the story.
But, sometimes you run into an unexpected gem.
Something new comes along and just sweeps you off of your feet!
This book is my little gem!
The way this book is told was just so realistic. The way everything unfolded was so spot on. I felt everything these characters went through.
This author did a fantastic job drawing you in and keeping you interested. I totally went into this book thinking one thing and got something totally different.
And I just love that! That after all these books I've read that I can still be surprised and swept off my feet.
In the beginning... I went into this book thinking how it was all going to be played out. When she picked the guy she wanted I felt good about it. Sad for the other guy. But it had been a clean pick.
As I kept reading little things started to pop up here and there. The cracks started to show.
I started to really see all the little differences between the two best friends. And I think Ella did too.
When I found out her side of how she came to pick who she wanted to be with. I was conflicted. I really wished she would have came up with a better system.
Because I felt she was playing both side.
And what I mean by that.... Is Sam would do something or say something she didn't like... Ella would lean on Matt. Plus she would sometimes act like a jealous girlfriend towards Matt. I hated when she would ask Matt personal questions. Or when they had their moments. Because I felt she knew what she was doing.
And it would be so hard on Matt.
Because she was so committed to Sam.
I know it's harsh to say...
But, I felt like she had buyers remorse picking Sam over Matt.
Sam....
Oh boy. I knew right away that he wasn't the one she should have picked. I mean... What he was doing before he met Ella should have given her a clue not to pick him! She saw everything. So it was hard for me to feel sorry for her in the middle of this book (when they got married and when they just started to have their problems). She knew what she was asking for and settling with before she even talked to him.
As I kept reading I truly started to feel for her. And I really started to hate Sam. What he did and the way he acted. I was so shocked!
Sam was acting like big A-Hole.
But, both Matt and Ella should have just opened up their mouths. Who cares how Sam was acting. Like it or not... He would have to be in there lives forever! Ella should've opened her mouth and told sam.
Matt.... I loved him. He was everything. He truly loved Ella. Would do anything for her. And he proved it. Not only to her but to her family.
There was one thing I wished there was more of in this book. I wished we got more about Sam after everything. I mean we get answers. But I wanted more details.
Other than that. I loved this book. I will definitely be telling EVERYONE about this book!
*ARC provided for an honest review*
-Michelle
January 19, 2024
I received an ARC of this book in exchange for an honest review.
WARNING: This review may be slightly spoilery, but I just couldn't help it! Read at your own risk!
First of all...I just want to say that I am in LOVE with this cover. It's absolutely gorgeous and I can't stop staring at it!
Matt sees Ella from across the room at a party he and his roommate Sam are throwing. He is immediately attracted to her and wants nothing more than to talk to her, but he has to bring one of the drunk partygoers home. By the time he gets back, the party is over and he finds Ella and Sam getting to know each other. In the biblical sense. Ella and Sam fall into a serious relationship and Matt, being the great guy that he is, does nothing but be a great friend to both Ella and Sam. He watches the woman he loves build a life with his best friend.
I absolutely ADORED Matt and my heart broke for him throughout the whole book. He may have lost the girl, but Matt moves on with his life. He gets a job after graduation. Gets his own place after Ella and Sam move in together. The three still spend time together, but it's not as often. At this point Matt is so in love with Ella, just being around her hurts too much, but he does it because he's a good friend. Matt still dates now and then and even meets someone who he brings to dinner with Ella and Sam (Talk about a big step!) It's at that dinner Matt learns that Ella and Sam are engaged. He thinks he does a good job of playing it off, but later that night he has this conversation with his girlfriend:
**sigh** I just wanted to give him a big hug. It's not like he isn't trying!!!
Fast forward to Ella and Sam's wedding. Of course Matt is the best man and it turns out he fits in with Ella's family way more than Sam ever did/will. Even Ella's sister Vanessa sees how much Matt cares for Ella. But soon after the wedding Matt not only leaves town, but he leaves the country. Let's just call it self preservation. While he is away, he has minimal contact with people back home. When Matt finally returns, he finds Ella and Sam's marriage is in trouble and things get interesting.
One would think that Matt would jump at a chance with Ella, but he is not that guy. Matt is Ella's friend first and foremost. And Sam is practically his brother. He may not be happy with Sam and their friendship could end up severely fractured, but he would never betray him in that way. So Matt does what he knows best. He becomes Ella's friend again. He even gives her MONTHS of space to help figure things out. And of course he is going to be there for her when she makes a decision. He loves her.
Poor Ella. I never doubted her love for Sam (don't get me started on that guy!), but I knew deep she felt more for Matt than what was on the surface. And I think that Sam really did love her, just in his own way. Unfortunately for him, it wasn't the right way and it came back to bite him in the ass. And just when things seemed to be falling into place, her world fell apart. I just kept my fingers crossed that she was going to get a happily ever after, but because she deserved it.
I just loved everything about this book!!! It took a while to get to "the good stuff", but that was a necessary evil. And Matt's grand gesture to get Ella back in his life on a permanent basis...SWOON CITY. Actually pretty much everything Matt did when it came to Ella made me swoon.
Oh! One more thing. VANESSA. I loved her. Despite the age difference (9 years), she was a wonderful friend to Matt. After realizing he had feelings for Ella she quickly became an important ally for him. She never really cared for Sam and had no problem hopping on Team Matt & Ella. Plus she was good comic relief when things seemed to get too tense. Great secondary character!
I really could go on and on, but just do yourself a favor and go buy the book! GO! GO! GO!
WARNING: This review may be slightly spoilery, but I just couldn't help it! Read at your own risk!
First of all...I just want to say that I am in LOVE with this cover. It's absolutely gorgeous and I can't stop staring at it!
Matt sees Ella from across the room at a party he and his roommate Sam are throwing. He is immediately attracted to her and wants nothing more than to talk to her, but he has to bring one of the drunk partygoers home. By the time he gets back, the party is over and he finds Ella and Sam getting to know each other. In the biblical sense. Ella and Sam fall into a serious relationship and Matt, being the great guy that he is, does nothing but be a great friend to both Ella and Sam. He watches the woman he loves build a life with his best friend.
I absolutely ADORED Matt and my heart broke for him throughout the whole book. He may have lost the girl, but Matt moves on with his life. He gets a job after graduation. Gets his own place after Ella and Sam move in together. The three still spend time together, but it's not as often. At this point Matt is so in love with Ella, just being around her hurts too much, but he does it because he's a good friend. Matt still dates now and then and even meets someone who he brings to dinner with Ella and Sam (Talk about a big step!) It's at that dinner Matt learns that Ella and Sam are engaged. He thinks he does a good job of playing it off, but later that night he has this conversation with his girlfriend:
“So, how long have you been in love with her?”
I froze, the question punching me in the face.
“Christie, I …”
“You love her.” Christie’s voice sounded so small.
“Don’t do this. You know I want to be with you.”
I was lost in those deep, dark eyes. They were sad, and I knew the simple act of responding the way I had to Ella’s announcement had broken her heart. I could see it.
“Do you?”
“Taking you to meet my friends was a really big thing. I haven’t taken a girlfriend to meet them before. Hell, I’ve not had anyone who I’ve called my girlfriend in ages.”
“Because you love her.”
I grasped my forehead with my fingers, rubbing it, knowing I’d have to be completely honest or find a better way to lie. So far, she’d seen right through me.
My mouth was dry as the desert, and I licked my lips, trying to summon up some courage. “When I first met Ella, I had feelings for her. But she’s with Sam, and now they’re getting married. I’m with you.”
“So you don’t have feelings for her anymore?” I could tell from her tone that Christie already knew the answer.
“I’d be lying if I said I didn’t. But I’m happy for her and Sam. Their happiness means just as much to me.” I flicked a lock of straight brown hair from her shoulder. “The feelings I have for you are growing all the time.”
“You can’t say you love me yet, though.” She had that puppy-dog look, the hopeful one, the one that had made me ask her out in the first place.
“Only because it’s been six weeks. I like what we have; I’m enjoying us getting to know one another.”
Christie frowned. “What if Ella and Sam break up later on? What about me?”
“Maybe we need to not overthink things, and see how it all goes.” I slid my fingers under her chin. “You’re amazing.”
She smiled a little, but I could see it in her eyes—she wasn’t sure if she should stick around to see what happened. She took a deep breath. “You’re pretty awesome yourself. That’s why I don’t know if I can do this.”
I shook my head. “No. This isn’t the way to deal with this. I’m here with you, right where I want to be.”
“Because she’s with him.”
I could try my hardest to fight this, but she was right, and not giving an inch. It wasn’t because I didn’t care about Christie, and I wasn’t lying about wanting to be with her, but there was someone who was that much more important to me. Someone who, despite my attempts to keep my distance from, I’d still come running to if she clicked her fingers.
I hated this feeling, and I loved it, torn between my heart that told me she might one day still be mine, and my head which told me the only way that would happen would be for Sam’s heart to break. That was the last thing I wanted to happen.
Christie backed out of my arms and my bed, and as she dressed and walked away in silence, I knew there was nothing more I could do.
So I let her go.
**sigh** I just wanted to give him a big hug. It's not like he isn't trying!!!
Fast forward to Ella and Sam's wedding. Of course Matt is the best man and it turns out he fits in with Ella's family way more than Sam ever did/will. Even Ella's sister Vanessa sees how much Matt cares for Ella. But soon after the wedding Matt not only leaves town, but he leaves the country. Let's just call it self preservation. While he is away, he has minimal contact with people back home. When Matt finally returns, he finds Ella and Sam's marriage is in trouble and things get interesting.
One would think that Matt would jump at a chance with Ella, but he is not that guy. Matt is Ella's friend first and foremost. And Sam is practically his brother. He may not be happy with Sam and their friendship could end up severely fractured, but he would never betray him in that way. So Matt does what he knows best. He becomes Ella's friend again. He even gives her MONTHS of space to help figure things out. And of course he is going to be there for her when she makes a decision. He loves her.
Poor Ella. I never doubted her love for Sam (don't get me started on that guy!), but I knew deep she felt more for Matt than what was on the surface. And I think that Sam really did love her, just in his own way. Unfortunately for him, it wasn't the right way and it came back to bite him in the ass. And just when things seemed to be falling into place, her world fell apart. I just kept my fingers crossed that she was going to get a happily ever after, but because she deserved it.
I just loved everything about this book!!! It took a while to get to "the good stuff", but that was a necessary evil. And Matt's grand gesture to get Ella back in his life on a permanent basis...SWOON CITY. Actually pretty much everything Matt did when it came to Ella made me swoon.
Oh! One more thing. VANESSA. I loved her. Despite the age difference (9 years), she was a wonderful friend to Matt. After realizing he had feelings for Ella she quickly became an important ally for him. She never really cared for Sam and had no problem hopping on Team Matt & Ella. Plus she was good comic relief when things seemed to get too tense. Great secondary character!
I really could go on and on, but just do yourself a favor and go buy the book! GO! GO! GO!
December 3, 2015
This book... This book is why I love being a blogger! When you sign up for a book....You never know what you're going to get until you start to read it.
Sure... You have the synopsis giving you an idea of what your going to read. But sometimes that doesn't live up to the story.
But, sometimes you run into an unexpected gem.
Something new comes along and just sweeps you off of your feet!
This book is my little gem!
The way this book is told was just so realistic. The way everything unfolded was so spot on. I felt everything these characters went through.
This author did a fantastic job drawing you in and keeping you interested. I totally went into this book thinking one thing and got something totally different.
And I just love that! That after all these books I've read that I can still be surprised and swept off my feet.
In the beginning... I went into this book thinking how it was all going to be played out. When she picked the guy she wanted I felt good about it. Sad for the other guy. But it had been a clean pick.
As I kept reading little things started to pop up here and there. The cracks started to show.
I started to really see all the little differences between the two best friends. And I think Ella did too.
When I found out her side of how she came to pick who she wanted to be with. I was conflicted. I really wished she would have came up with a better system.
Because I felt she was playing both side.
And what I mean by that.... Is Sam would do something or say something she didn't like... Ella would lean on Matt. Plus she would sometimes act like a jealous girlfriend towards Matt. I hated when she would ask Matt personal questions. Or when they had their moments. Because I felt she knew what she was doing.
And it would be so hard on Matt.
Because she was so committed to Sam.
I know it's harsh to say...
But, I felt like she had buyers remorse picking Sam over Matt.
Sam....
Oh boy. I knew right away that he wasn't the one she should have picked. I mean... What he was doing before he met Ella should have given her a clue not to pick him! She saw everything. So it was hard for me to feel sorry for her in the middle of this book (when they got married and when they just started to have their problems). She knew what she was asking for and settling with before she even talked to him.
As I kept reading I truly started to feel for her. And I really started to hate Sam. What he did and the way he acted. I was so shocked!
Sam was acting like big A-Hole.
But, both Matt and Ella should have just opened up their mouths. Who cares how Sam was acting. Like it or not... He would have to be in there lives forever! Ella should've opened her mouth and told sam.
Matt.... I loved him. He was everything. He truly loved Ella. Would do anything for her. And he proved it. Not only to her but to her family.
There was one thing I wished there was more of in this book. I wished we got more about Sam after everything. I mean we get answers. But I wanted more details.
Other than that. I loved this book. I will definitely be telling EVERYONE about this book!
*ARC provided for an honest review*
(This same review is on my blog Goodreads account)
Sure... You have the synopsis giving you an idea of what your going to read. But sometimes that doesn't live up to the story.
But, sometimes you run into an unexpected gem.
Something new comes along and just sweeps you off of your feet!
This book is my little gem!
The way this book is told was just so realistic. The way everything unfolded was so spot on. I felt everything these characters went through.
This author did a fantastic job drawing you in and keeping you interested. I totally went into this book thinking one thing and got something totally different.
And I just love that! That after all these books I've read that I can still be surprised and swept off my feet.
In the beginning... I went into this book thinking how it was all going to be played out. When she picked the guy she wanted I felt good about it. Sad for the other guy. But it had been a clean pick.
As I kept reading little things started to pop up here and there. The cracks started to show.
I started to really see all the little differences between the two best friends. And I think Ella did too.
When I found out her side of how she came to pick who she wanted to be with. I was conflicted. I really wished she would have came up with a better system.
Because I felt she was playing both side.
And what I mean by that.... Is Sam would do something or say something she didn't like... Ella would lean on Matt. Plus she would sometimes act like a jealous girlfriend towards Matt. I hated when she would ask Matt personal questions. Or when they had their moments. Because I felt she knew what she was doing.
And it would be so hard on Matt.
Because she was so committed to Sam.
I know it's harsh to say...
But, I felt like she had buyers remorse picking Sam over Matt.
Sam....
Oh boy. I knew right away that he wasn't the one she should have picked. I mean... What he was doing before he met Ella should have given her a clue not to pick him! She saw everything. So it was hard for me to feel sorry for her in the middle of this book (when they got married and when they just started to have their problems). She knew what she was asking for and settling with before she even talked to him.
As I kept reading I truly started to feel for her. And I really started to hate Sam. What he did and the way he acted. I was so shocked!
Sam was acting like big A-Hole.
But, both Matt and Ella should have just opened up their mouths. Who cares how Sam was acting. Like it or not... He would have to be in there lives forever! Ella should've opened her mouth and told sam.
Matt.... I loved him. He was everything. He truly loved Ella. Would do anything for her. And he proved it. Not only to her but to her family.
There was one thing I wished there was more of in this book. I wished we got more about Sam after everything. I mean we get answers. But I wanted more details.
Other than that. I loved this book. I will definitely be telling EVERYONE about this book!
*ARC provided for an honest review*
(This same review is on my blog Goodreads account)
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December 27, 2017
Oooh my god I'm lost for words I don't want to give anything away so I won't let's just say Sweet,Loving hot fun powerful sad and so so good come fall in love with Ella,Matt and Sam just as much as I did I couldn't put it down. The passion and emotion I felt while reading and meeting these Charcters was just Wow❤❤❤❤❤
May 25, 2017
This book was pretty amazing at the start! However I found the sex scenes were unnecessary. However the story line was great!!!
November 10, 2018
Ella is such an amazing person!! She has to overcome so much but is such a strong person.
June 15, 2021
Wow! This story was better than I expected. This story had so much heart, and I was glad how this story ended. Without giving to much away I’m glad Ella found the happiness she deserved. 🤍
December 13, 2015
I was given this book as a ARC and all i can say is i feel so lucky to have been given this book in return for this hidden diamond of a book. But if you are like me and really get into your books and characters make sure you have tissues to her as it got me in floods of tears.
When fate comes into our life it can be a good thing or a bad thing.
We meet Matt meets Ella he falls for her hook, line and sinker the only problem is so does his best friend Sam.
Matt decides the best thing he can do is to step aside and let his best friend have the girl despite the feelings he has developed for Ella. Sam and Ella end up marrying and shortly after they marry Matt moves country as he cant bear to see the woman he loves with another man.
Matt finally returns , but doesn't expect to find what is going on when he get returns home, Sam and Ella are struggling to to start their much longed for family, If that isn't enough to contend with Matt's feelings for Ella haven't disappeared in fact they have grown.
This put Matt into a difficult situation whose side does he choose when things fall apart the woman he loves or his best friend
When fate comes into our life it can be a good thing or a bad thing.
We meet Matt meets Ella he falls for her hook, line and sinker the only problem is so does his best friend Sam.
Matt decides the best thing he can do is to step aside and let his best friend have the girl despite the feelings he has developed for Ella. Sam and Ella end up marrying and shortly after they marry Matt moves country as he cant bear to see the woman he loves with another man.
Matt finally returns , but doesn't expect to find what is going on when he get returns home, Sam and Ella are struggling to to start their much longed for family, If that isn't enough to contend with Matt's feelings for Ella haven't disappeared in fact they have grown.
This put Matt into a difficult situation whose side does he choose when things fall apart the woman he loves or his best friend
November 18, 2015
In A Lifetime. I was given this book as a gift by this amazing author, and fellow New Zealander. And it was everything I hoped for and more. This book was amazing and so special. I loved everything about it. I had been waiting a while to read this and it left me happy and content. Ella and Matt had an initial connection yet circumstances changed their course. I was hurting with Matt when he watched the love of his life love his best friend. He was everything she needed yet ignored and her family adored him to bits. And Ella. Poor Ella. Her happily ever after ended in a cruel nightmare. Struggling to have a family and keep her husband happy. My heart was with her too. I was just feeling every single emotion taken place in this novel. I swear I was an emotional wreck. I was so glad when they screwed on their heads properly and finally be together. This book was about fighting for what you want and finding the happiness you've been looking for. Amazing job, Ariadne. Absolutely beautiful.
December 17, 2015
This was a beautiful tale of true love, and true friendship, that had me hooked from the start. Getting to know the characters was easily done, with clear scene settings and descriptive writing. Matt is a genuine gentleman and Ella's knight in shining armour and their story is wondrous.
November 29, 2015
Received an advanced copy for my honest review.
Good heartfelt book about what happens when everything you have falls apart. Great chemistry between all of the characters. Story line really flows. Really great book by a new to me author
Good heartfelt book about what happens when everything you have falls apart. Great chemistry between all of the characters. Story line really flows. Really great book by a new to me author
November 20, 2015
A Definite Must Read!!! Great Second Chance Love Story!!!
Ariadne Wayne, You did an Outstanding Job!!!
**Received ARC for review.**
Ariadne Wayne, You did an Outstanding Job!!!
**Received ARC for review.**
December 18, 2018
I'm giving this 4.5 stars.
I instantly loved Matt. The first page, I was so drawn to him as a character. He was the first to spot Ella. But due to the fact that he and his roommate that one of them had to be sober during their parties and also D.D. Fate has a way of being exceptionally cruel. So he wound up taking a drunk girl home after telling his roommate to keep an eye on her to make sure she didn't leave. Fate is even worse to him when he comes back home and sees the girl that his sights were set on in the "throws of passion" with his best friend.
My heart broke for Matt. He stood by for years. Watched his best friend marry the girl that he was deeply in love with. I understood why he left. He couldn't stand by. When he does finally come back, it's like WOAH!! He finally sees what's been going on between Sam and Ella. The once totally in love couple is now broken. When Sam finally screws up, it's like I knew he would. Sam didn't know a good thing when he had it. He didn't know that despite the hard times, something good will come out of it. Ella and Matt finally get together months after Sam is out of the picture. When the two finally get together it was like the choir sang!
I loved that this story was mainly about Matt. Yes this book switched over to Sam and Ella, but it was mainly Matt's story. This story had the HEA with the could that I rooted for from the beginning.
I instantly loved Matt. The first page, I was so drawn to him as a character. He was the first to spot Ella. But due to the fact that he and his roommate that one of them had to be sober during their parties and also D.D. Fate has a way of being exceptionally cruel. So he wound up taking a drunk girl home after telling his roommate to keep an eye on her to make sure she didn't leave. Fate is even worse to him when he comes back home and sees the girl that his sights were set on in the "throws of passion" with his best friend.
My heart broke for Matt. He stood by for years. Watched his best friend marry the girl that he was deeply in love with. I understood why he left. He couldn't stand by. When he does finally come back, it's like WOAH!! He finally sees what's been going on between Sam and Ella. The once totally in love couple is now broken. When Sam finally screws up, it's like I knew he would. Sam didn't know a good thing when he had it. He didn't know that despite the hard times, something good will come out of it. Ella and Matt finally get together months after Sam is out of the picture. When the two finally get together it was like the choir sang!
I loved that this story was mainly about Matt. Yes this book switched over to Sam and Ella, but it was mainly Matt's story. This story had the HEA with the could that I rooted for from the beginning.
July 6, 2018
A beautiful love story
A love triangle between two best friends, Matt and Sam, and Ella. They both spot her on the same night, but fate steps in and it’s Sam she meets first and falls for. Matt, who was smitten with her straight away, can only watch as his best friend falls in love with the woman of his dreams.
Happy just to have her in his life, he settles for being her friend. He watches as Sam and Ella build a life together, but when they finally marry, he’s had enough and decides to travel overseas.
When he returns two years later, he finds a very different couple. Consumed with trying for a baby, Sam and Ella are falling apart with the stress of it all. He hardly recognises the people he knew.
He tries to resume their friendship, but it’s difficult. His feelings for Ella are as intense as they’ve ever been. When the marriage fails, is it finally Matt’s turn to be happy?
The book is an emotional roller coaster of feelings. You experience everything right along with the characters. There is so much pain, longing and love oozing from every page.
The characters are well defined and interesting, the storyline is handled extremely well, and I was conflicted as to whose side I was on. I empathised with each character in turn. A brilliant book I’m glad I read.
A love triangle between two best friends, Matt and Sam, and Ella. They both spot her on the same night, but fate steps in and it’s Sam she meets first and falls for. Matt, who was smitten with her straight away, can only watch as his best friend falls in love with the woman of his dreams.
Happy just to have her in his life, he settles for being her friend. He watches as Sam and Ella build a life together, but when they finally marry, he’s had enough and decides to travel overseas.
When he returns two years later, he finds a very different couple. Consumed with trying for a baby, Sam and Ella are falling apart with the stress of it all. He hardly recognises the people he knew.
He tries to resume their friendship, but it’s difficult. His feelings for Ella are as intense as they’ve ever been. When the marriage fails, is it finally Matt’s turn to be happy?
The book is an emotional roller coaster of feelings. You experience everything right along with the characters. There is so much pain, longing and love oozing from every page.
The characters are well defined and interesting, the storyline is handled extremely well, and I was conflicted as to whose side I was on. I empathised with each character in turn. A brilliant book I’m glad I read.
March 18, 2018
Wow truly amazing!!!
This book was truly amazing. It was emotionally driven.
It starts off with Matt seeing Ella across the room at a party he and his best friend was hosting. He falls totally in love with her at first sight. Before he can approach her, he has to leave the party.
While he is away Ella gets together with Sam, Matt's best friend.
He is disappointed but hides his feelings.
When Ella and Sam get married, Matt decides to leave the country to help him get over his feelings.
2 years later things aren't as perfect as it was when he left. Cracks have appeared in Ella and Sam's life.
Matt realises his feelings are even stronger now.
How will he help his friends in their troubles and what will become of his feelings towards the unattainable Ella.
I loved this story. I loved Matt and Ella as a couple. I was rooting for them all the way through. I loved the supporting characters, especially Vanessa, Ella's younger sister.
It was heartbreaking to see Ella go through so much pain and anguish in her marriage to Sam.
I found Sam to be a 'douchbag' as Vanessa called him. He was literally lowest of the low. You could tell they were right for each other but Ella was too much in love to see the reality.
Fantastic book filled with lots of emotions.
This book was truly amazing. It was emotionally driven.
It starts off with Matt seeing Ella across the room at a party he and his best friend was hosting. He falls totally in love with her at first sight. Before he can approach her, he has to leave the party.
While he is away Ella gets together with Sam, Matt's best friend.
He is disappointed but hides his feelings.
When Ella and Sam get married, Matt decides to leave the country to help him get over his feelings.
2 years later things aren't as perfect as it was when he left. Cracks have appeared in Ella and Sam's life.
Matt realises his feelings are even stronger now.
How will he help his friends in their troubles and what will become of his feelings towards the unattainable Ella.
I loved this story. I loved Matt and Ella as a couple. I was rooting for them all the way through. I loved the supporting characters, especially Vanessa, Ella's younger sister.
It was heartbreaking to see Ella go through so much pain and anguish in her marriage to Sam.
I found Sam to be a 'douchbag' as Vanessa called him. He was literally lowest of the low. You could tell they were right for each other but Ella was too much in love to see the reality.
Fantastic book filled with lots of emotions.
June 25, 2018
After reading the first lines of the first chapter that I wasn’t sure when I started this book that I was going to like it. And I have learned to stick with a book because I have learned that sometimes first impressions can be wrong. That is the case with this book. It turned out to be such a good read. The book was so well written. There were a lot of twists and turns. The further I got into the book the harder it was to put down. I love all the characters that make up this book. Ella and Matt along with Sam were the star characters in this book. However my favorite was Venessa sister of Ella. She is very instrumental in making sure the connection between Ella and Matt did not become lost. I also enjoyed Finn and Georgia their children. One of the things we learn in this book that there is a big difference between a Father and a Dad. And sometimes the Father and the Daddy are two different people. Sam is the father of Finn simply by providing the seed that created him. But Matt is Finn’s Daddy because he is the one who loves him and raise him. I also enjoyed the parents of both Ella and Matt; especially her Dad.
I thought in the beginning that this book might be filled with profanity and overly graphic sexual narratives; but it wasn’t. It was surprisingly clean and not overly graphic. I appreciated that.
I look forward to reading more of this Author’s works.
I thought in the beginning that this book might be filled with profanity and overly graphic sexual narratives; but it wasn’t. It was surprisingly clean and not overly graphic. I appreciated that.
I look forward to reading more of this Author’s works.
December 8, 2018
Sweet - but not exciting
I like a little more drama in these types of stories. It was a very sweet storyline, and I’m happy with how it ended, but I think the time jumps could have provided more opportunity for exciting scenes. It was simply Matt pining after Ella the entire time and there was never any truly detailed parts where he was trying to move on with his life. I even lost interest when he and Ella finally ended up together. It almost felt weird that she suddenly realized how much she cared for him when she supposedly only had eyes for Sam during the entire time they’d known each other. I think there could have been a better timeline throughout the story that could have helped it play out better, but I did like the premise. I’m also glad that the author touched on infertility issues. It’s a heartbreaking topic that people tend to steer away from because of how controversial and sensitive it is, but it is necessary to shed light on the struggles that result from it.
I like a little more drama in these types of stories. It was a very sweet storyline, and I’m happy with how it ended, but I think the time jumps could have provided more opportunity for exciting scenes. It was simply Matt pining after Ella the entire time and there was never any truly detailed parts where he was trying to move on with his life. I even lost interest when he and Ella finally ended up together. It almost felt weird that she suddenly realized how much she cared for him when she supposedly only had eyes for Sam during the entire time they’d known each other. I think there could have been a better timeline throughout the story that could have helped it play out better, but I did like the premise. I’m also glad that the author touched on infertility issues. It’s a heartbreaking topic that people tend to steer away from because of how controversial and sensitive it is, but it is necessary to shed light on the struggles that result from it.
May 23, 2017
I struggled with this book a little bit, even though it was a quick read. I had a hard time with Sam being so quick to make a move on Ella even though his best friend tells him to watch over her till he gets back from saving another girl. I found it weird how quickly the two "fell in love" and moved right in. How everything seems so perfect and yet falls apart so quickly. Sam is like everyone's creepy uncle at odd points in the book. Matt was the only redeeming character in the book, and I felt bad for how he was treated.
I did like the supporting characters and Ella's family was very idyllic. While the end result was good it just seemed a little too anti-climactic for me. Don't get me wrong though it was a decent read. As my friend Steph would say it passed the time just fine.
I did like the supporting characters and Ella's family was very idyllic. While the end result was good it just seemed a little too anti-climactic for me. Don't get me wrong though it was a decent read. As my friend Steph would say it passed the time just fine.
September 22, 2018
Loved this book.... has a few changes of heart whilst reading.
First I hoped she got with Matt, But then felt really sorry for her and Sam when they were struggling for baby.... although I felt it was all focused on her. It touched on Sam but we need to remember we expect men to our rock so there for they have it twice as hard and that should of been a bit more recognised I think as I can imagine a lot of people hating Sam now.
And I didn’t agree with her not telling him... I would of told in from of Petra bitch when she smirk at her and got one back! Hahahaha
I love a good book that you get right into and want to climb into to sort the characters out and this did just that for me. Can’t wait to continue the series :-)
First I hoped she got with Matt, But then felt really sorry for her and Sam when they were struggling for baby.... although I felt it was all focused on her. It touched on Sam but we need to remember we expect men to our rock so there for they have it twice as hard and that should of been a bit more recognised I think as I can imagine a lot of people hating Sam now.
And I didn’t agree with her not telling him... I would of told in from of Petra bitch when she smirk at her and got one back! Hahahaha
I love a good book that you get right into and want to climb into to sort the characters out and this did just that for me. Can’t wait to continue the series :-)
March 30, 2021
I was a little split with this book. I liked the story in general but it felt more like reading a love triangle book sometimes (which I'm not fond of) the story sometimes focused too much in Sam and Elle and was kind of uncomfortable to read their intimate moments and her love for Sam when you know she is going to end with Matt, also felt she move on to quickly to Matt even thought they had feelings to each other the time she went from Sam to Matt felt a little rushed. But it was a good story in general and realistic in a way.
December 30, 2019
Ridiculously dull book
All three main characters are affiliated with the same weird quirk. "Waggling their eyebrows." The author uses this phrase to allude to sex___---over and over and over. Originally it defines the sexual intent of the "sleaze" character but the author lazily begins to. Use it to define toe sexual intimation of both the hero and then the sluty but innocent heroine. This book is in need of an editor. Don't. Bother.
All three main characters are affiliated with the same weird quirk. "Waggling their eyebrows." The author uses this phrase to allude to sex___---over and over and over. Originally it defines the sexual intent of the "sleaze" character but the author lazily begins to. Use it to define toe sexual intimation of both the hero and then the sluty but innocent heroine. This book is in need of an editor. Don't. Bother.
June 29, 2017
Could've turned into Should've and led to HEA
FYM author list.
First time read of Ms. Wayne's work and while unconventional I have to say I enjoyed the story. Sometimes the wait is truly worth it.
Minimal NZ'isms so it didn't put me of 😉 so much so that the story could be set in any town.
FYM author list.
First time read of Ms. Wayne's work and while unconventional I have to say I enjoyed the story. Sometimes the wait is truly worth it.
Minimal NZ'isms so it didn't put me of 😉 so much so that the story could be set in any town.
October 23, 2017
it was ok only thing that bothers me is whyyyy be hung over a women who isn't NOT ONCE yours ! made me mad at times because damn everybody knows being a third-wheel sucks but that one? deserves the award for best third-wheel lmao geez
March 30, 2018
Great read
What a great book. This book is one about fate and sometimes how timing plays a large role in relationships. Sam, Matt, and Ella are all great characters bit the watching their relationships change is huge.
What a great book. This book is one about fate and sometimes how timing plays a large role in relationships. Sam, Matt, and Ella are all great characters bit the watching their relationships change is huge.
January 18, 2019
I enjoyed this book and it was my first time reading this author. I absolutely loved Matt and his patience and perseverance throughout the book. Ella's character and pain with infertility was sad and very believable.
June 20, 2017
4.5 stars.
December 22, 2017
Great read
This book is one of the best I have read in a while. Keeps you wondering what is going to happen next.
This book is one of the best I have read in a while. Keeps you wondering what is going to happen next.
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