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Before & After
Rike and Peyton fell in love in college.A boy from the wrong side of the tracks, covered in ink and crooning in a bar is the last person a straight laced girl with a art major should fall for, but his rough edges made her jagged, alive, shaving away the coddled southern princess and revealing a soul wild and brilliant. They fell in love, despite her family and his past and all the reasons why it wouldn't work--and with their best friends, they made a life. Everyone was supposed to live happily ever after. They, more than anyone, knows that life doesn't go according to plan. Rike and Peyton fell in love in college. A boy with a guitar, and a poet's heart, and a girl with freckles dusted over her nose, a perfect fucking fairy tale. But what happens when the fairy tale doesn't fall apart--but is forgotten?
362 pages, Kindle Edition
First published July 27, 2015
14 people are currently reading
461 people want to read
About the author
Nazarea Andrews
46 books431 followersNazarea Andrews is an avid reader and tends to write the stories she wants to read. She loves chocolate and coffee almost as much as she loves books, but not quite as much as she loves her kids. She lives in south Georgia with her husband, daughters, and overgrown dog.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 63 reviews
November 14, 2018
Before and After slowly sneaked its way inside my heart. I was caught off guard because I didn't expect that Nazarea Andrews can play my emotions just like that! The moment I saw the cover of Before and After, I KNOW I have to read it. The blurb sounds like an outstanding drama and I've read a book by Andrews before and I was impressed. So why not? I'm glad that I wasn't disappointed. Swoon, drama and happy endings... I absolutely loved it.
I don't think you can read a book by Nazarea Andrews and NOT fall in love with her male leads. Rike wasn't an exception. He's the perfect mixture of sweet and hotness and yep, as expected, I can't get enough of him. I did have a love-hate relationship with him for a while though but most of the time, I was just fanning myself. Rike has that affect on you. Peyton surprised me because the blurb made me expect a meek girl but that was not what I met. But surprisingly, I adore her because of that.
The plot of Before and After is what I loved the most about this book. I found it unique, emotional and edgy. The whole book might have some flaws but the little things make up for it. The poems before Peyton's POV at NOW was really sweet. I recommend Before and After to every romance readers! It will surely be a favorite.
July 25, 2015
It's the night of Peyton's best friend Lindsey's bachelorette party and they are having an awesome time until tragedy strikes.. This is NOW.
The novel then jumps back three years, where Scott and Rike are working and strutting their stuff at Barrie's Bar as they are in a band and play their quite often when Rike spots a lovely red-head across the room , she is not the type of person who normally hangs out in this scene and she looks a bit out of place. Over time Rike strikes up a conversation with her - Her name is Peyton and the two of them start dating. Peyton's roommate Lindsey is a bit of a free spirit and has been having casual no-strings fun with Scott - Rike's best friend and soon Scott and Lindsey start dating as well. This is BEFORE.
Peyton has woken up in hospital and it seems that she is suffering amnesia as she cannot for the life of her , remember the past three years. In fact the last thing she remembers is when she was twenty, and all she can remember is her friend Lindsey - her "new" roommate. Lindsey on the other hand has her memory, but has been paralysed and what should have been the happiest day of her life walking down the aisle and celebrating her honeymoon with Scott has been dampened by the news that she will never walk again. This is AFTER
Can Rike help Peyton remember and will she even want her help as she can't remember who he is to her and why she would find herself with this group of "misfits" as she calls them as they aren't like the life she remembers ? Will Peyton regain her memory and learn to love her friends and life again, or will it be lost forever ?
Nazarea Andrews's book "Before & After" reminded me quite a lot of the movie "The Vow" starring Rachel McAdams and Channing Tatum where they had an accident and she lost her memory and could only remember her perfect life before him.
This is the perfect read for all those who love their Contemporary Romance New Adult Books - a Bit more on the Edgier and Gritter side of life.
The novel then jumps back three years, where Scott and Rike are working and strutting their stuff at Barrie's Bar as they are in a band and play their quite often when Rike spots a lovely red-head across the room , she is not the type of person who normally hangs out in this scene and she looks a bit out of place. Over time Rike strikes up a conversation with her - Her name is Peyton and the two of them start dating. Peyton's roommate Lindsey is a bit of a free spirit and has been having casual no-strings fun with Scott - Rike's best friend and soon Scott and Lindsey start dating as well. This is BEFORE.
Peyton has woken up in hospital and it seems that she is suffering amnesia as she cannot for the life of her , remember the past three years. In fact the last thing she remembers is when she was twenty, and all she can remember is her friend Lindsey - her "new" roommate. Lindsey on the other hand has her memory, but has been paralysed and what should have been the happiest day of her life walking down the aisle and celebrating her honeymoon with Scott has been dampened by the news that she will never walk again. This is AFTER
Can Rike help Peyton remember and will she even want her help as she can't remember who he is to her and why she would find herself with this group of "misfits" as she calls them as they aren't like the life she remembers ? Will Peyton regain her memory and learn to love her friends and life again, or will it be lost forever ?
Nazarea Andrews's book "Before & After" reminded me quite a lot of the movie "The Vow" starring Rachel McAdams and Channing Tatum where they had an accident and she lost her memory and could only remember her perfect life before him.
This is the perfect read for all those who love their Contemporary Romance New Adult Books - a Bit more on the Edgier and Gritter side of life.
July 29, 2015
I received an ARC of this book in exchange for an honest review.
Wow. This book was AMAZING. Nazarea Andrews does it again. Her writing style is so unique and definitely one of my favorite writers. Such a well written story. Rike and Peyton are such an inspiring couple. The things they go through and everything is just heartbreaking. Their love is absolutely incredible.
One of my favorite quotes from the book is:
"Always, Fish. You're it. My always. You forget me, and walk away and I would love you still."
She pulls back, and stares at me, eyes wide and searching. "Do you think I could forget you?"
I shrug. "Doesn't matter. I'll remember for both of us, and I'll make you remember too."
Let me just say I was in tears when reading this. Such a beautiful story. I love that it shows both of their points of view. Rike's is from Before and Peyton's is from After. I don't want to spoil anything because sometimes it's nice going into a book and not knowing what's going to happen. I highly recommend this book and it's definitely going on my favorites shelf.
Other works by Nazarea Andrews to read are The World Without End series, the fourth and final installment was released this May 2015. Definitely a good twist on the zombie apocalypse, and if you are a Walking Dead fan you will LOVE this series.
Wow. This book was AMAZING. Nazarea Andrews does it again. Her writing style is so unique and definitely one of my favorite writers. Such a well written story. Rike and Peyton are such an inspiring couple. The things they go through and everything is just heartbreaking. Their love is absolutely incredible.
One of my favorite quotes from the book is:
"Always, Fish. You're it. My always. You forget me, and walk away and I would love you still."
She pulls back, and stares at me, eyes wide and searching. "Do you think I could forget you?"
I shrug. "Doesn't matter. I'll remember for both of us, and I'll make you remember too."
Let me just say I was in tears when reading this. Such a beautiful story. I love that it shows both of their points of view. Rike's is from Before and Peyton's is from After. I don't want to spoil anything because sometimes it's nice going into a book and not knowing what's going to happen. I highly recommend this book and it's definitely going on my favorites shelf.
Other works by Nazarea Andrews to read are The World Without End series, the fourth and final installment was released this May 2015. Definitely a good twist on the zombie apocalypse, and if you are a Walking Dead fan you will LOVE this series.
August 3, 2015
2-2.5 stars
obviously judging by the title of this book the reader already knows this is told in past & present pov. our heroine peyton is the present (after) and rike, our hero holds the past pov (before).
i really wanted to love this book and was sold on the synopsis straight away. we know something big happens aka the before & after angle, but sadly i struggled to not skim from page 60 and it's only 160 pages long.
i did really like reading about rike and peyton falling for one another in the "before" but it is the "after" i didn't enjoy so much, it fell flat for me. we are pretty much learning things as peyton does in present day. it's hard to review this one without giving away things.
i think character wise we didn't find out enough history for rike or why peyton thought her parents so horrible, pushy yes but i felt that was all a bit run of the mill.. girl hates parents who from what i could tell just didn't agree with their daughters life choices. they didn't seem THAT horrible. yawn. it just felt a little shallow at times and i was bored. better editing was also needed, there's quite a few errors throughout.
even though it wasn't for me, i am sure it'll make those looking for a quick read happy. meh.
obviously judging by the title of this book the reader already knows this is told in past & present pov. our heroine peyton is the present (after) and rike, our hero holds the past pov (before).
i really wanted to love this book and was sold on the synopsis straight away. we know something big happens aka the before & after angle, but sadly i struggled to not skim from page 60 and it's only 160 pages long.
i did really like reading about rike and peyton falling for one another in the "before" but it is the "after" i didn't enjoy so much, it fell flat for me. we are pretty much learning things as peyton does in present day. it's hard to review this one without giving away things.
i think character wise we didn't find out enough history for rike or why peyton thought her parents so horrible, pushy yes but i felt that was all a bit run of the mill.. girl hates parents who from what i could tell just didn't agree with their daughters life choices. they didn't seem THAT horrible. yawn. it just felt a little shallow at times and i was bored. better editing was also needed, there's quite a few errors throughout.
even though it wasn't for me, i am sure it'll make those looking for a quick read happy. meh.
July 23, 2015
3.5 stars Good, quick read. Hero is really, really, really into heroine, which I loved. Sex scenes are crazy hot. Would have liked more resolution about other couple in the book (unless they're getting their own?)and didn't quite buy that heroine's parents were horrible people. Otherwise a really solid read.
October 2, 2015
I received an ARC of this book in exchange for an honest review.
I Loved this book. I loved the uniqueness of the writing style, the alternative POVS. I liked just getting a little piece of the puzzle at a time. At times it was frustrating because I wanted to know everything. But I think that's what makes this book so great is trying to guess what is going to happen next. Or past events. So if that sounds like your kind of book you'll enjoy this book. This is only the second book I have read by Nazarea Andrews she got me hooked after reading This Love
This booked hooked me from the beginning. From the prologue I was already trying to figure everything out, already guessing what event caused a Before & After set up for this book.
Rike and Peyton met in collage at a Bar that Rike and his best friend Scot play at. Right away Rike believes that Peyton is a good girl and that he doesn't deserve her. But everyone has a past and secrets and you can't judge someone based on what they look like or where they came from. Sometimes you'll be surprised.
There are two other secondary characters that play a big part of the story. Rike and Peyton's best friends Scot and Lindsey. They all need each other and they become their own family. Rike and Scot haven't had the best home life. And Peyton fights her own demons when it comes to her home life. Peyton is a strong woman, to still come out on top and to live her life to the fullest.
I am at a stopping point right now with my Review, I don't want to give to much away.
Peyton and Rike have this beautiful love. It's even more beautiful because of all that they have overcome to get it. This love that helps them discover their true self worth. But sometimes in life things happen and we don't know why, and life takes you off course. And you have a new path to take and you can try and make it back or go somewhere new.
For peyton she just wants to figure out who she is before she can figure out if she wants to go back or keep moving forward. And sweet Rike, bless his heart he is so patient with Peyton, because he believe in their love. That their one of a kind love with put Peyton back on the path to him. I just adored him.
So if you wanna take this Journey and find out what could possible tear these two apart give this book a chance when it is available.
I do have a few things I didn't like its minor didn't changed my like of the book. But I just can't get over how close the four of them were. I got the vibe of them being together more than just best friends. As I was reading I kept waiting for a Foursome sex scene thank goodness didn't happen. They weren't but that's the vibe I got, and didn't like it. But that's just my opinion don't let that scare you away. Because they book is so much more than just that.
Love this quote I hid it because I want to give you the choice if you want to spoil yourself.
You can find me on facebook and Instagram Facebook
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I Loved this book. I loved the uniqueness of the writing style, the alternative POVS. I liked just getting a little piece of the puzzle at a time. At times it was frustrating because I wanted to know everything. But I think that's what makes this book so great is trying to guess what is going to happen next. Or past events. So if that sounds like your kind of book you'll enjoy this book. This is only the second book I have read by Nazarea Andrews she got me hooked after reading This Love
This booked hooked me from the beginning. From the prologue I was already trying to figure everything out, already guessing what event caused a Before & After set up for this book.
Rike and Peyton met in collage at a Bar that Rike and his best friend Scot play at. Right away Rike believes that Peyton is a good girl and that he doesn't deserve her. But everyone has a past and secrets and you can't judge someone based on what they look like or where they came from. Sometimes you'll be surprised.
There are two other secondary characters that play a big part of the story. Rike and Peyton's best friends Scot and Lindsey. They all need each other and they become their own family. Rike and Scot haven't had the best home life. And Peyton fights her own demons when it comes to her home life. Peyton is a strong woman, to still come out on top and to live her life to the fullest.
I am at a stopping point right now with my Review, I don't want to give to much away.
Peyton and Rike have this beautiful love. It's even more beautiful because of all that they have overcome to get it. This love that helps them discover their true self worth. But sometimes in life things happen and we don't know why, and life takes you off course. And you have a new path to take and you can try and make it back or go somewhere new.
For peyton she just wants to figure out who she is before she can figure out if she wants to go back or keep moving forward. And sweet Rike, bless his heart he is so patient with Peyton, because he believe in their love. That their one of a kind love with put Peyton back on the path to him. I just adored him.
So if you wanna take this Journey and find out what could possible tear these two apart give this book a chance when it is available.
I do have a few things I didn't like its minor didn't changed my like of the book. But I just can't get over how close the four of them were. I got the vibe of them being together more than just best friends. As I was reading I kept waiting for a Foursome sex scene thank goodness didn't happen. They weren't but that's the vibe I got, and didn't like it. But that's just my opinion don't let that scare you away. Because they book is so much more than just that.
Love this quote I hid it because I want to give you the choice if you want to spoil yourself.
You can find me on facebook and Instagram Facebook
July 18, 2015
Received a copy in exchange for an honest review
“She’s pressed against me, all soft curves and rumpled skirt and sharp nails digging into my scalp and she tastes so f@cking sweet - sugar and sunshine as her tongue tangled with mine, fighting to control the kiss. Her nails sank down, yanking on my hair and I bite her lower lip, just enough to make her moan and sag against me.”
4 stars! I really enjoyed the writing and the characters were complex and interesting to read about.
Rike and Peyton fell in love in college.
A boy from the wrong side of the tracks, covered in ink and crooning in a bar is the last person a straight laced girl with a art major should fall for, but his rough edges made her jagged, alive, shaving away the coddled southern princess and revealing a soul wild and brilliant. They fell in love, despite her family and his past and all the reasons why it wouldn't work--and with their best friends, they made a life. Everyone was supposed to live happily ever after. They, more than anyone, knows that life doesn't go according to plan. Rike and Peyton fell in love in college. A boy with a guitar, and a poet's heart, and a girl with freckles dusted over her nose, a perfect fucking fairy tale. But what happens when the fairy tale doesn't fall apart--but is forgotten?
I loved Rike and Peyton’s relationship. Boy from the wrong side of the tracks and the girl with everything at her feet. Yes it’s a story that’s been told over and over, but it’s a story that I still love to this day!! I don’t want to give too much away except to say that this story is so beautifully written and so much fun to read!! Great, Great book!!!
**Received a copy in exchange for an honest review. Read and reviewed by Melissa for Alpha Book Club**
“She’s pressed against me, all soft curves and rumpled skirt and sharp nails digging into my scalp and she tastes so f@cking sweet - sugar and sunshine as her tongue tangled with mine, fighting to control the kiss. Her nails sank down, yanking on my hair and I bite her lower lip, just enough to make her moan and sag against me.”
4 stars! I really enjoyed the writing and the characters were complex and interesting to read about.
Rike and Peyton fell in love in college.
A boy from the wrong side of the tracks, covered in ink and crooning in a bar is the last person a straight laced girl with a art major should fall for, but his rough edges made her jagged, alive, shaving away the coddled southern princess and revealing a soul wild and brilliant. They fell in love, despite her family and his past and all the reasons why it wouldn't work--and with their best friends, they made a life. Everyone was supposed to live happily ever after. They, more than anyone, knows that life doesn't go according to plan. Rike and Peyton fell in love in college. A boy with a guitar, and a poet's heart, and a girl with freckles dusted over her nose, a perfect fucking fairy tale. But what happens when the fairy tale doesn't fall apart--but is forgotten?
I loved Rike and Peyton’s relationship. Boy from the wrong side of the tracks and the girl with everything at her feet. Yes it’s a story that’s been told over and over, but it’s a story that I still love to this day!! I don’t want to give too much away except to say that this story is so beautifully written and so much fun to read!! Great, Great book!!!
**Received a copy in exchange for an honest review. Read and reviewed by Melissa for Alpha Book Club**
June 21, 2018
I received an ARC of this book in exchange for an honest review.
I would just like to start this off by saying, I LOVED THIS BOOK! Not only is the cover beautiful, but the actual content is exemplary. I love the characters; the plot just brought on a bunch of feels! I felt slightly uncomfortable about certain scenes and details in the dialogue. Granted, this is the first real New Adult novel I have read in my life, so I shoved it aside. This was a book I could not put down, except to each lunch. And it left me wanting more!! As it should. http://haddieshaven.blogspot.com/2015...
I would just like to start this off by saying, I LOVED THIS BOOK! Not only is the cover beautiful, but the actual content is exemplary. I love the characters; the plot just brought on a bunch of feels! I felt slightly uncomfortable about certain scenes and details in the dialogue. Granted, this is the first real New Adult novel I have read in my life, so I shoved it aside. This was a book I could not put down, except to each lunch. And it left me wanting more!! As it should. http://haddieshaven.blogspot.com/2015...
December 27, 2015
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I've always enjoyed Nazarea's contemporary novels, so I wasn't at all surprised to find myself completely hooked on the characters and the story from the first few pages. I tend to avoid books where the main character is struggling with any type of memory loss. I just find it so horribly sad. The way this one was told, however, in the alternating Before and After, softened the blow. It was still emotional, but not overwhelmingly so.
I really liked both Rike and Peyton. Though, if I'm being honest, I liked Peyton more in the Before and Rike more in the After. However, I always liked them together, whether in Before or After. I enjoyed watching them get to know each other in the Before and Peyton try to get to know herself in the After. I don't want to say much for fear of ruining this story, but I thoroughly enjoyed them together. The secondary characters were pretty incredible, too. Now, I never got as much of a feel for Lindsay as I did Scott, but somehow this foursome was just perfect. Scott I loved. He was a little bit of a jerk sometimes, but there was no doubt how much he cared about those closest to him.
Before & After was a relatively quick read. Once I got wrapped up in Rike, Peyton and the struggle they were facing, I couldn't stop reading. It ended too soon for my liking (but only because I'm a greedy reader) but with a final sentence that packed an emotional punch. (I love perfect last lines in books.) This book was gritty and it wasn't without some seriously emotional moments. The love scenes – which they were plenty of in the second half of the story – were sexy to the point of being downright dirty. (And you know I love a good dirty talker.) I loved how Nazarea worked in poems and songs to the story. They were beautiful touches to an already fantastic story.
There were only a couple things I struggled with in this book and, while one might be a little spoilery, I have to mention it because it's something I feel strongly about. In the Before, there's a moment where reformed manwhore Rike gets annoyed with Peyton and decides he needs to sleep with someone else. WHY WHY WHY?! Why do we do this? I seriously considered putting the book down at that point, regardless of how much I was enjoying it up until then because that is right at the top of my literary no fly zone. There are few things that will turn me off to a book more than the guy (or girl) screwing someone else because they can't have/are mad at/other reasons the person they're interested in. UGH. It seriously makes me both ragey and twitchy and that's a bad combination. But, I am glad I soldiered through. This was the first time I saw what an amazing friend Scott was and how he really wasn't quite as selfish as I thought from previous scenes. Rike did have to work to get me back on his side though.
The other thing I struggled with is something I'm not even sure I should mention, but I will anyhow. I started off reading this book in eARC format, but there were a large number of grammatical and spelling errors. (I know, I know, we don't judge books by their unedited ARC and I would never base my rating on that.) I can usually force myself to look past them, but I was struggling with that here. Before I reviewed the book, I wanted to make sure they had been fixed in the final version – plus I was looking for an easier reading experience – so I bought it off Amazon and read the second half in final format. It was a smart move on my part. SO much more enjoyable and I found it even easier to get lost in the story that way.
So, despite the one moment where I wanted to throw my iPad across the room, I thoroughly enjoyed this book. It was easy to fall for the characters and cheer them on through the ups and downs. Plus, I'm a sucker for a good second chance story and I loved how the second chance was intertwined with the initial falling in love. I flew through this book. There might've even been tears. I do hope Nazarea writes more about Scott and Lindsay. I could use a good follow-up novella, at bare minimum, to see what happens with them.
I received a copy of this book from the author in exchange for an honest review.
I've always enjoyed Nazarea's contemporary novels, so I wasn't at all surprised to find myself completely hooked on the characters and the story from the first few pages. I tend to avoid books where the main character is struggling with any type of memory loss. I just find it so horribly sad. The way this one was told, however, in the alternating Before and After, softened the blow. It was still emotional, but not overwhelmingly so.
I really liked both Rike and Peyton. Though, if I'm being honest, I liked Peyton more in the Before and Rike more in the After. However, I always liked them together, whether in Before or After. I enjoyed watching them get to know each other in the Before and Peyton try to get to know herself in the After. I don't want to say much for fear of ruining this story, but I thoroughly enjoyed them together. The secondary characters were pretty incredible, too. Now, I never got as much of a feel for Lindsay as I did Scott, but somehow this foursome was just perfect. Scott I loved. He was a little bit of a jerk sometimes, but there was no doubt how much he cared about those closest to him.
Before & After was a relatively quick read. Once I got wrapped up in Rike, Peyton and the struggle they were facing, I couldn't stop reading. It ended too soon for my liking (but only because I'm a greedy reader) but with a final sentence that packed an emotional punch. (I love perfect last lines in books.) This book was gritty and it wasn't without some seriously emotional moments. The love scenes – which they were plenty of in the second half of the story – were sexy to the point of being downright dirty. (And you know I love a good dirty talker.) I loved how Nazarea worked in poems and songs to the story. They were beautiful touches to an already fantastic story.
There were only a couple things I struggled with in this book and, while one might be a little spoilery, I have to mention it because it's something I feel strongly about. In the Before, there's a moment where reformed manwhore Rike gets annoyed with Peyton and decides he needs to sleep with someone else. WHY WHY WHY?! Why do we do this? I seriously considered putting the book down at that point, regardless of how much I was enjoying it up until then because that is right at the top of my literary no fly zone. There are few things that will turn me off to a book more than the guy (or girl) screwing someone else because they can't have/are mad at/other reasons the person they're interested in. UGH. It seriously makes me both ragey and twitchy and that's a bad combination. But, I am glad I soldiered through. This was the first time I saw what an amazing friend Scott was and how he really wasn't quite as selfish as I thought from previous scenes. Rike did have to work to get me back on his side though.
The other thing I struggled with is something I'm not even sure I should mention, but I will anyhow. I started off reading this book in eARC format, but there were a large number of grammatical and spelling errors. (I know, I know, we don't judge books by their unedited ARC and I would never base my rating on that.) I can usually force myself to look past them, but I was struggling with that here. Before I reviewed the book, I wanted to make sure they had been fixed in the final version – plus I was looking for an easier reading experience – so I bought it off Amazon and read the second half in final format. It was a smart move on my part. SO much more enjoyable and I found it even easier to get lost in the story that way.
So, despite the one moment where I wanted to throw my iPad across the room, I thoroughly enjoyed this book. It was easy to fall for the characters and cheer them on through the ups and downs. Plus, I'm a sucker for a good second chance story and I loved how the second chance was intertwined with the initial falling in love. I flew through this book. There might've even been tears. I do hope Nazarea writes more about Scott and Lindsay. I could use a good follow-up novella, at bare minimum, to see what happens with them.
I received a copy of this book from the author in exchange for an honest review.
July 30, 2015
**This advanced copy was provided to me by the author in exchange for an honest review**
My Rating: 4 Coffee Cups!
I loved the fresh take and new spin on a kind of common storyline! Boy meets girl. Boy and girl fall in love. Girl get amnesia. Sounds kind of contrite and unoriginal right? Nope WRONG. Nazarea Andrews takes this and turns it up a whole bunch of notches. This story is about Rike and Peyton. Quite literally the before and the after. This story is told in a dual POV (which I absolutely ADORED).
The Before: pretty much the story of how these two individuals met and fell in love is told from Rike's perspective. He takes you through the emotions of not only the extremely significant moments in their story (from their first meeting to the first time they did the deed to the intimate sharing of their dark pasts) but you also get a look at their day to day. The little things they did, the smiles they shared, the "less significant" moments. But they are moments that open your heart to their story even more.
“I’m not good for you, Fish.” I say.
She blinks, startled. “Did you just call me a fish?”
I nod and roll us. “It’s a quote I heard once. ‘People say there are other fish in the sea. I say, fuck you, she was my sea.’” I shrug. “It stuck with me.”
She propped herself up on my chest and gives me a frown. “Wouldn’t that make me the sea? Not a fish.”
I slap her ass lightly and she yelps, her eyes flying wide. “Shut up. Fish sounds better.”
The After: the story of how these two individuals handle the fallout of a horrific accident. This is told in Peyton's POV. This accident has erased years of memories. All of which include Rike, her best friend Lindsay and her boyfriend Scotty. You see and feel the confusion that emanates from her when she wakes up in the hospital bed. She needs to re-learn what her life is now, starting with figuring out who the guy holding vigil by her bedside is. And it's heartbreaking.
The alternating POVs make it so.
You learn a little sliver of their love story from Rike, only to watch the confusion of it from her end. You feel Rike's feelings of loss and hurt and devastation. He loves her, but he is trying to give her space and be patient. But you're not upset or frustrated at all with Peyton because you see inside her head and her emotions- which are confused at best. This story tugs your heart like a yo-yo. And this isn't even taking into account Scotty and Lindsay. The four are more than just friends, they are a family. The accident caused a ripple in all of their lives and although this is Peyton and Rike's story, you get a small glimpse into the fall out on Lindsay and Scotty's end as well.
The Before is beautiful and painful and sweet and sexy. It makes everything that they are going through in The After worth it. Every painful non-memory, every struggle with self identity, every frustration that Peyton feels is equally balanced with beautiful scenes from their past. Moments of hardships won, love realized, emotional barriers being broken down (and not to mention some super steamy scenes ;)). And the last few line before the epilogue. Let's just say I teared up with happiness. Because you will get invested. Really invested.
"And all of us are broken, all of us are flawed,
All of us have battles, and times when we fall
And I will love you always, with scars and broken heart
You’re beautiful and broken, my perfect girl."
Originally posted at The Book Cafe
My Rating: 4 Coffee Cups!
I loved the fresh take and new spin on a kind of common storyline! Boy meets girl. Boy and girl fall in love. Girl get amnesia. Sounds kind of contrite and unoriginal right? Nope WRONG. Nazarea Andrews takes this and turns it up a whole bunch of notches. This story is about Rike and Peyton. Quite literally the before and the after. This story is told in a dual POV (which I absolutely ADORED).
The Before: pretty much the story of how these two individuals met and fell in love is told from Rike's perspective. He takes you through the emotions of not only the extremely significant moments in their story (from their first meeting to the first time they did the deed to the intimate sharing of their dark pasts) but you also get a look at their day to day. The little things they did, the smiles they shared, the "less significant" moments. But they are moments that open your heart to their story even more.
“I’m not good for you, Fish.” I say.
She blinks, startled. “Did you just call me a fish?”
I nod and roll us. “It’s a quote I heard once. ‘People say there are other fish in the sea. I say, fuck you, she was my sea.’” I shrug. “It stuck with me.”
She propped herself up on my chest and gives me a frown. “Wouldn’t that make me the sea? Not a fish.”
I slap her ass lightly and she yelps, her eyes flying wide. “Shut up. Fish sounds better.”
The After: the story of how these two individuals handle the fallout of a horrific accident. This is told in Peyton's POV. This accident has erased years of memories. All of which include Rike, her best friend Lindsay and her boyfriend Scotty. You see and feel the confusion that emanates from her when she wakes up in the hospital bed. She needs to re-learn what her life is now, starting with figuring out who the guy holding vigil by her bedside is. And it's heartbreaking.
The alternating POVs make it so.
You learn a little sliver of their love story from Rike, only to watch the confusion of it from her end. You feel Rike's feelings of loss and hurt and devastation. He loves her, but he is trying to give her space and be patient. But you're not upset or frustrated at all with Peyton because you see inside her head and her emotions- which are confused at best. This story tugs your heart like a yo-yo. And this isn't even taking into account Scotty and Lindsay. The four are more than just friends, they are a family. The accident caused a ripple in all of their lives and although this is Peyton and Rike's story, you get a small glimpse into the fall out on Lindsay and Scotty's end as well.
The Before is beautiful and painful and sweet and sexy. It makes everything that they are going through in The After worth it. Every painful non-memory, every struggle with self identity, every frustration that Peyton feels is equally balanced with beautiful scenes from their past. Moments of hardships won, love realized, emotional barriers being broken down (and not to mention some super steamy scenes ;)). And the last few line before the epilogue. Let's just say I teared up with happiness. Because you will get invested. Really invested.
"And all of us are broken, all of us are flawed,
All of us have battles, and times when we fall
And I will love you always, with scars and broken heart
You’re beautiful and broken, my perfect girl."
Originally posted at The Book Cafe
August 3, 2015
*Also posted at Oops! I Read A Book Again*
Thank you to Jessica of InkSlinger PR and Nazarea Andrews for the review copy. Receiving one did not affect my views of the novel.
What is it with Nazarea Andrews' books that just gets me reading? I wasn't initially planning on reading Before & After because the blurb sounded like your usual NA fare and I'm a bit over my new adult phase. But then that cover just called out to me and I am weak against pretty covers. I went into the book with no expectations, even though I highly enjoyed Girl Lost and Forever Found, Nazarea's Peter Pan new adult retellings. I don't know if I liked those because they are Peter Pan-based or because of the writing. With Before & After, I can now attest that Nazarea's writing just clicks with me.
Like I said, Before & After isn't something completely fresh and novel and it has the trope I hate the most -- amnesia. But surprisingly, as it seems to be the pattern with this book, I didn't even roll my eyes once with the amnesia. It's because we're immediately thrown into the set-up and faced right away with the conflict. This novel is told in two perspectives, Rike's first POV before Peyton's amnesia, and Peyton's after the amnesia. So we get to see how Rike and Peyton fell in love and how they tried to rebuild their relationship when Peyton can't remember him.
One thing I really appreciated with this novel though is that it touched upon how Rike and his best friend Scott shared a girl during sex. I mean, this is my first one that delved upon it and I am VERY PROUD. I know nothing about this preference but it's nice that it got exposure in here. In case you're curious, the steam factor in Before & After is through the roof! Just, prepare your panties!
All in all, Before & After was an entertaining read and one that kept me engaged in its story. Its plot might not be the most novel one out there in the new adult landscape, but it's still a story I'd recommend contemporary romance fans to read. Nazarea Andrews definitely knows how to write a book I just can't stop on reading.
Thank you to Jessica of InkSlinger PR and Nazarea Andrews for the review copy. Receiving one did not affect my views of the novel.
What is it with Nazarea Andrews' books that just gets me reading? I wasn't initially planning on reading Before & After because the blurb sounded like your usual NA fare and I'm a bit over my new adult phase. But then that cover just called out to me and I am weak against pretty covers. I went into the book with no expectations, even though I highly enjoyed Girl Lost and Forever Found, Nazarea's Peter Pan new adult retellings. I don't know if I liked those because they are Peter Pan-based or because of the writing. With Before & After, I can now attest that Nazarea's writing just clicks with me.
Like I said, Before & After isn't something completely fresh and novel and it has the trope I hate the most -- amnesia. But surprisingly, as it seems to be the pattern with this book, I didn't even roll my eyes once with the amnesia. It's because we're immediately thrown into the set-up and faced right away with the conflict. This novel is told in two perspectives, Rike's first POV before Peyton's amnesia, and Peyton's after the amnesia. So we get to see how Rike and Peyton fell in love and how they tried to rebuild their relationship when Peyton can't remember him.
One thing I really appreciated with this novel though is that it touched upon how Rike and his best friend Scott shared a girl during sex. I mean, this is my first one that delved upon it and I am VERY PROUD. I know nothing about this preference but it's nice that it got exposure in here. In case you're curious, the steam factor in Before & After is through the roof! Just, prepare your panties!
All in all, Before & After was an entertaining read and one that kept me engaged in its story. Its plot might not be the most novel one out there in the new adult landscape, but it's still a story I'd recommend contemporary romance fans to read. Nazarea Andrews definitely knows how to write a book I just can't stop on reading.
August 6, 2015
❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️. Full review to come
Merged review:
This review was originally posted on Cocktails and Books
BEFORE AND AFTER was one of the books that you couldn't put down. Told in alternating POVs between the past and present, Nazarea Andrews gave us an all encompassing view of the romance between Rike and Peyton. It was beautiful, painful and an absolute pleasure to follow.
I loved Rike and Peyton. They were both gritty and a bit beaten down by things from their pasts, but when they were together, nothing else matter but the two of them. So it broke my heart a little bit as the present story unfolded and I realized what an uphill climb this couple had. You understood, right away, what it cost Rike, even if Peyton didn't. This probably sounds very cryptic, but I don't want to give the story away. This is one of those books where the reader needs to experience it, from the very beginning, with a blank slate. You want to be surrounded by the pain, the building friendship, the love and the desperation of this couple as they work their way back to happily ever after.
Nazarea Andrews never disappoints me with her books. I always know I'm in for an emotional roller coaster, but this one was especially touching. If you're looking for a book with a shy, sexy hero who is willing to do whatever it takes to make sure he keeps the love of his life, BEFORE AND AFTER is definitely a book to pick up.
Reviewer information can be found under the Tags section of the post on our site.
Merged review:
This review was originally posted on Cocktails and Books
BEFORE AND AFTER was one of the books that you couldn't put down. Told in alternating POVs between the past and present, Nazarea Andrews gave us an all encompassing view of the romance between Rike and Peyton. It was beautiful, painful and an absolute pleasure to follow.
I loved Rike and Peyton. They were both gritty and a bit beaten down by things from their pasts, but when they were together, nothing else matter but the two of them. So it broke my heart a little bit as the present story unfolded and I realized what an uphill climb this couple had. You understood, right away, what it cost Rike, even if Peyton didn't. This probably sounds very cryptic, but I don't want to give the story away. This is one of those books where the reader needs to experience it, from the very beginning, with a blank slate. You want to be surrounded by the pain, the building friendship, the love and the desperation of this couple as they work their way back to happily ever after.
Nazarea Andrews never disappoints me with her books. I always know I'm in for an emotional roller coaster, but this one was especially touching. If you're looking for a book with a shy, sexy hero who is willing to do whatever it takes to make sure he keeps the love of his life, BEFORE AND AFTER is definitely a book to pick up.
Reviewer information can be found under the Tags section of the post on our site.
September 12, 2015
3-3.5 stars
This was an ok read for me. I loved the characters in this book. I was really feeling this story.
But… I just didn’t like how the book was written.
I always have a love hate thing when it comes to books with going back and forth between past and present.
Sometimes it works for me and sometimes it doesn’t. I just hate it when I’m into a certain part of the story….then it’s switches up. It’s hard for me to transition.
It messes up the flow for me. And it almost makes the story drag out.
I wasn���t really feeling it in this book. Every chapter switch back and forth.
And it was killing me.
The whole thing with Peyton was taking way to long to unfold. We get bits and pieces of both of her past and present. We still don’t know the whole story.
I’m just not feeling it at all. Which is sad. Because I like the concept of the story. Just not liking how it was executed.
I also felt it was a bit too rushed in the end.
I wanted more consistency between Peyton and Rike. I wanted to fall in love with their past fully all in one shot… Then move on to the present.
I loved how Rike no matter what stayed true to Peyton.
The whole Scott story line was to me a bit out of place. Especially that scene with Lindsay. I get that Rike and Scott are best friends and they do everything together.
But… I just wasn’t feeling it. Because even thought we get a glimpse of the past with all of them. I never felt that connection with him.
Overall this was an ok read for me.
*ARC provided for an honest review*
(This same review is on my blog goodreads account)
This was an ok read for me. I loved the characters in this book. I was really feeling this story.
But… I just didn’t like how the book was written.
I always have a love hate thing when it comes to books with going back and forth between past and present.
Sometimes it works for me and sometimes it doesn’t. I just hate it when I’m into a certain part of the story….then it’s switches up. It’s hard for me to transition.
It messes up the flow for me. And it almost makes the story drag out.
I wasn���t really feeling it in this book. Every chapter switch back and forth.
And it was killing me.
The whole thing with Peyton was taking way to long to unfold. We get bits and pieces of both of her past and present. We still don’t know the whole story.
I’m just not feeling it at all. Which is sad. Because I like the concept of the story. Just not liking how it was executed.
I also felt it was a bit too rushed in the end.
I wanted more consistency between Peyton and Rike. I wanted to fall in love with their past fully all in one shot… Then move on to the present.
I loved how Rike no matter what stayed true to Peyton.
The whole Scott story line was to me a bit out of place. Especially that scene with Lindsay. I get that Rike and Scott are best friends and they do everything together.
But… I just wasn’t feeling it. Because even thought we get a glimpse of the past with all of them. I never felt that connection with him.
Overall this was an ok read for me.
*ARC provided for an honest review*
(This same review is on my blog goodreads account)
August 7, 2015
Holy smokes this book was amazing. Whatever I had been expecting with this story was tossed to the side like a wet newspaper. Before and After is so completely awesome I am ashamed I thought this book could be anything less.
Rike and Peyton had a love at first sight moment. Rike and his best friend and roommate Scott are a two-piece band trying to make it big. Rike saw Peyton one day in a bar and he’s been hooked on her ever since. Finding out who she is and building a life together with her and Lindsay and Scott their best friends and family. Then one night changes everything and to Peyton and Rike the Before is gone and now they need to figure out their relationship for the After, because Peyton isn’t Peyton anymore she doesn’t know who she is at all.
So I seriously had no idea what this book was about going in besides Peyton and Rike’s love story. What I got from right off the bat was a great cast of characters who are best friends and everything to each other. The characters and story Nazarea Andrews created is so beautiful and well crafted it literally left me breathless and I couldn’t put this story down (which is saying a lot since I was on my honeymoon, oops).
I don’t want to say too much since it will be spoiler-y but I will say I enjoyed every aspect of this book. The characters, the story, the writing, the humor, the everything. Everything was beautiful so go grab this book.
Rike and Peyton had a love at first sight moment. Rike and his best friend and roommate Scott are a two-piece band trying to make it big. Rike saw Peyton one day in a bar and he’s been hooked on her ever since. Finding out who she is and building a life together with her and Lindsay and Scott their best friends and family. Then one night changes everything and to Peyton and Rike the Before is gone and now they need to figure out their relationship for the After, because Peyton isn’t Peyton anymore she doesn’t know who she is at all.
So I seriously had no idea what this book was about going in besides Peyton and Rike’s love story. What I got from right off the bat was a great cast of characters who are best friends and everything to each other. The characters and story Nazarea Andrews created is so beautiful and well crafted it literally left me breathless and I couldn’t put this story down (which is saying a lot since I was on my honeymoon, oops).
I don’t want to say too much since it will be spoiler-y but I will say I enjoyed every aspect of this book. The characters, the story, the writing, the humor, the everything. Everything was beautiful so go grab this book.
July 30, 2015
4.5 "Fish" & "Jokes" stars!!
This is my first book by Nazarea Andrews and it will not be my last! I loved this book and was pulled in right from the beginning.
Peyton and Rike fell in love when she was in college. She has this vibe of a straight-laced good girl and he is the boy with the bad past that is a rocker. But that is all on the surface. Below that, these two are pieces of a puzzle that belong together.
It is really hard to review this book without giving anything away. For that reason alone I have been struggling to write my review. I wrote one then erased it, only to start all over again.
This book is told in Rike and Peyton's POV. Rike is the voice for the Before part and Peyton tells us the After story. This was really unique and allows us to learn so much about both characters and I feel like we get to fall in love with them this way. This was a beautiful book and I cannot wait to read more from this author!
I do feel like I needed a little more at the end but am still happy with things. I think I just wasn't ready to say goodbye to these characters. I really want to learn more about Scott and Lindsay, too. I really liked these two just as much as I liked the MCs!
***ARC provided in exchange for my HONEST review. Thank you!***
This is my first book by Nazarea Andrews and it will not be my last! I loved this book and was pulled in right from the beginning.
Peyton and Rike fell in love when she was in college. She has this vibe of a straight-laced good girl and he is the boy with the bad past that is a rocker. But that is all on the surface. Below that, these two are pieces of a puzzle that belong together.
It is really hard to review this book without giving anything away. For that reason alone I have been struggling to write my review. I wrote one then erased it, only to start all over again.
This book is told in Rike and Peyton's POV. Rike is the voice for the Before part and Peyton tells us the After story. This was really unique and allows us to learn so much about both characters and I feel like we get to fall in love with them this way. This was a beautiful book and I cannot wait to read more from this author!
I do feel like I needed a little more at the end but am still happy with things. I think I just wasn't ready to say goodbye to these characters. I really want to learn more about Scott and Lindsay, too. I really liked these two just as much as I liked the MCs!
***ARC provided in exchange for my HONEST review. Thank you!***
July 31, 2015
I received an ARC in excange for an honest review. Follow the blo tour stop on http://milkywayofbooks.blogspot.gr/
I was surprised to see that Nazarea Andrews wrote a college contemporary novel! Since it's a stand alone I took the chance, especially after I saw that colorful, beautiful cover!
The story goes back and forth, changing between the POVs of Pey and Rike, giving a mystery on how their relationship was formed and what happened inbetween. I won't spoil you since this is the best part of the story but I must say that I never expected the twist. The best part?
There's no insta-love; many will think that because it's a standalone the main characters met and fell in love.
But no; there is a slow building and when it explodes it's truly sweet and heartbreaking.
I loved it and I believe that "Before & After" is from the few novels which should be more well known.
I was surprised to see that Nazarea Andrews wrote a college contemporary novel! Since it's a stand alone I took the chance, especially after I saw that colorful, beautiful cover!
The story goes back and forth, changing between the POVs of Pey and Rike, giving a mystery on how their relationship was formed and what happened inbetween. I won't spoil you since this is the best part of the story but I must say that I never expected the twist. The best part?
There's no insta-love; many will think that because it's a standalone the main characters met and fell in love.
But no; there is a slow building and when it explodes it's truly sweet and heartbreaking.
I loved it and I believe that "Before & After" is from the few novels which should be more well known.
August 4, 2015
this one just caught my eye I loved the cover art. Amazing story Rike and Peyton have the fairy tale story but in a flash it is forgotten. Peyton and her best friend Lindsey are out celebrating Lindsey and Scott's wedding with a bachelor party. A terrible accident sends both girls to the hospital. Half the book is the NOW from Peyton's POV and she has no memories. Rike is giving Peyton time to remember her life so the alternate chapters begin three years ago when they first see each other and meet. I love how the story unfolds Now and then from their different POV. Pretty incredible.
August 2, 2015
Get out the tissues
This is beautifully and creatively written and the journey this book takes you on is both heartbreaking and beautiful I could put it down
This is beautifully and creatively written and the journey this book takes you on is both heartbreaking and beautiful I could put it down
January 31, 2017
Review originally posted on my blog I Heart Fictional People
INITIAL THOUGHTS
I just had to read this book after seeing the cover. It’s such an awesome cover! And when I read what it was about, it reminded me of The Vow, and I have a soft spot for stories where someone forgets who they are and who their soulmate is. It’s heartbreaking but also compelling because I just HAVE to know what happens.
WHAT I LIKED
I really liked this book. Rike and Peyton are the ultimate couple that I look for in books. They each have not-so-pleasant pasts, and they learn to love and find comfort in each other. And the way Rike loves Peyton is that kind of love that us females dream about. Pretty perfect, if you ask me. And they have this them-against-the-world mentality, which is awesome because nothing can keep them apart. Of course, then the unthinkable happens, and Peyton loses her memory, so it is THE test for them.
Okay, let me elaborate on my love for Rike. First of all, that name. That oh-so-sexy name. That right there is enough to love him. But then he has to go and have an awesome personality too. It’s too much. Seriously. Why do the perfect boyfriends always end up being fictional? I digress. So he’s this sexy, rocker, bad boy with tattoos, and he may look tough on the outside, but he’s so vulnerable and just needs to be loved. And his terrible pick-up lines and jokes are just too cute for words. Plus, what makes him even more irresistible is how he doesn’t give up on Peyton, even after she forgets everything. He stands by her, gives her space, and is just the perfect boyfriend in my opinion. Ahh! I love it. I’m bummed that the book is over because I could read more Rike any day.
The romance is sweet. You root for them from beginning to end. And there were some steamy ass scenes in this book. I wasn’t really expecting that, but I’m definitely not complaining. It just took me off guard…in a good way :)
I also surprisingly liked how it went back and forth between before the accident and after the accident, one in Rike’s point of view and the other in Peyton’s point of view. It wasn’t in that annoying flashback kind of way, which I absolutely hate. This was definitely unique, and I loved it. So, kudos to the author for coming up with that brilliant idea!
WHAT I DIDN'T LIKE
My only complaint is that it was too short for me. Things seemed a bit rushed at times, and I think certain things like their past could have been explained more.
OVERALL THOUGHTS
It was so good. With unforgettable characters, an epic romance, and that book boyfriend we all want in real life, this is definitely a must-read. Trust me. You’ll enjoy it just as much as I did.
*I received an ARC in exchange for an honest review*
INITIAL THOUGHTS
I just had to read this book after seeing the cover. It’s such an awesome cover! And when I read what it was about, it reminded me of The Vow, and I have a soft spot for stories where someone forgets who they are and who their soulmate is. It’s heartbreaking but also compelling because I just HAVE to know what happens.
WHAT I LIKED
I really liked this book. Rike and Peyton are the ultimate couple that I look for in books. They each have not-so-pleasant pasts, and they learn to love and find comfort in each other. And the way Rike loves Peyton is that kind of love that us females dream about. Pretty perfect, if you ask me. And they have this them-against-the-world mentality, which is awesome because nothing can keep them apart. Of course, then the unthinkable happens, and Peyton loses her memory, so it is THE test for them.
Okay, let me elaborate on my love for Rike. First of all, that name. That oh-so-sexy name. That right there is enough to love him. But then he has to go and have an awesome personality too. It’s too much. Seriously. Why do the perfect boyfriends always end up being fictional? I digress. So he’s this sexy, rocker, bad boy with tattoos, and he may look tough on the outside, but he’s so vulnerable and just needs to be loved. And his terrible pick-up lines and jokes are just too cute for words. Plus, what makes him even more irresistible is how he doesn’t give up on Peyton, even after she forgets everything. He stands by her, gives her space, and is just the perfect boyfriend in my opinion. Ahh! I love it. I’m bummed that the book is over because I could read more Rike any day.
The romance is sweet. You root for them from beginning to end. And there were some steamy ass scenes in this book. I wasn’t really expecting that, but I’m definitely not complaining. It just took me off guard…in a good way :)
I also surprisingly liked how it went back and forth between before the accident and after the accident, one in Rike’s point of view and the other in Peyton’s point of view. It wasn’t in that annoying flashback kind of way, which I absolutely hate. This was definitely unique, and I loved it. So, kudos to the author for coming up with that brilliant idea!
WHAT I DIDN'T LIKE
My only complaint is that it was too short for me. Things seemed a bit rushed at times, and I think certain things like their past could have been explained more.
OVERALL THOUGHTS
It was so good. With unforgettable characters, an epic romance, and that book boyfriend we all want in real life, this is definitely a must-read. Trust me. You’ll enjoy it just as much as I did.
*I received an ARC in exchange for an honest review*
July 30, 2015
I signed up to read and review this book without even reading the blurb. I just saw the author and said that I want to read her next book because I had read Sweet Ruin, one of her other works, and loved it. Only when the time to read it came, I realized that this book might have been a second chance story (before and after their breakup) and that someone might have cheated. I thought that I had f-up, but once I read the blurb (finally!) I saw that wasn't the case and I panicked for no reason. The line at the end of the blurb stuck in my head and got me hooked. But what happens when the fairy tale doesn't fall apart--but is forgotten?
The cover looks like something Peyton could have created and it's something I as a reader appreciate because it's one of the covers that capture the essence of the book. The fact that I commented on a book cover should be by itself a big thing because I never comment on the cover of a book. I usually don't notice or I don't have an opinion on the cover.
The before chapters are being told from Rike's point of view and they are the flashback chapters that explain how they met and fell in love and the After chapters are being told from Peyton's and tell the story that's happened after the accident and in present time. I wanted them to switch for a chapter or two while I was reading the book, but now that I have finished it I can say that a chapter in present time from Rike's point of view could have ruined the story by spoiling it.
I fell in love with Rike by the end of chapter 2. I don't know how or why, but I did. I don't like his name though. (Sorry to all the Rike's out there) The story is quick and easy to read and I am recommending this to everyone.
Almost all the book is perfectly written. The pace is great, both the Before and After chapters satisfy you and leave you wanting more at the same time when the end and the characters develop (a little, but they do). Usually I hate it when a certain amount of time elapses and I still have the impression that it has been a month instead of three, but somehow I was okay with not knowing the exact amount of time that had elapsed in the chapters before. In the after chapters are more detailed i.e. Peyton says that she spends 2 weeks in the hospital.
But the 28th chapter and the epilogue felt rushed and poorly written compared to the others. For me the ending chapters matter the most because it's how the story wrap's up. The reader is going to remember the ending and it's not good to leave him with a bad impression. I would have liked a more detailed explanation about what happened with Scott and Lindsey and I think that's what bothered me the most. I get what brought Peyton's memories back and I would have loved a chapter about that.
The cover looks like something Peyton could have created and it's something I as a reader appreciate because it's one of the covers that capture the essence of the book. The fact that I commented on a book cover should be by itself a big thing because I never comment on the cover of a book. I usually don't notice or I don't have an opinion on the cover.
The before chapters are being told from Rike's point of view and they are the flashback chapters that explain how they met and fell in love and the After chapters are being told from Peyton's and tell the story that's happened after the accident and in present time. I wanted them to switch for a chapter or two while I was reading the book, but now that I have finished it I can say that a chapter in present time from Rike's point of view could have ruined the story by spoiling it.
I fell in love with Rike by the end of chapter 2. I don't know how or why, but I did. I don't like his name though. (Sorry to all the Rike's out there) The story is quick and easy to read and I am recommending this to everyone.
Almost all the book is perfectly written. The pace is great, both the Before and After chapters satisfy you and leave you wanting more at the same time when the end and the characters develop (a little, but they do). Usually I hate it when a certain amount of time elapses and I still have the impression that it has been a month instead of three, but somehow I was okay with not knowing the exact amount of time that had elapsed in the chapters before. In the after chapters are more detailed i.e. Peyton says that she spends 2 weeks in the hospital.
But the 28th chapter and the epilogue felt rushed and poorly written compared to the others. For me the ending chapters matter the most because it's how the story wrap's up. The reader is going to remember the ending and it's not good to leave him with a bad impression. I would have liked a more detailed explanation about what happened with Scott and Lindsey and I think that's what bothered me the most. I get what brought Peyton's memories back and I would have loved a chapter about that.
August 7, 2015
Ok, I’ve got to get this out of my system before I develop into the story further; while I loved the relationships in Before and After I honestly did not understand the kink in this instance, it felt a whole lot skeevy. The idea of co-dependency is another thing I struggle with, probably due to the fact that I have had to cope by myself more often than not.
Nazarea Andrews employs ingenious writing techniques within the narrative, not only is the story told in dual narrative but it also switches between the past and the present. While this can often cause confusion for the reader, Nazarea separates both brilliantly by giving Rike’s voice the past while Peyton gets the present. The past and the present are divided by a tragic accident leaving Peyton with memory loss.
The chemistry and deep connection between Rike and Payton is undeniable both in the past and in the present. Viewing their relationship from the two different perspectives and time frames allows the reader to connect the puzzle pieces of Peyton’s memory alongside her. The revelations are kept at a constant pace making the story un-put-downable.
First impression would make you assume Peyton and Rike are so different that any relationship between them would never work. That is until you dig below the surface, their pieces just fit. Peyton is fiercely independent, strong and sassy yet there is a constant underlying vulnerability that makes you want to protect her. Both Peyton and Rike are creative and artistic, passionate without being volatile. They give each other strength ♥
Rike and Peyton have suffered emotionally growing up and have a lot of barriers in place. Although it is as if the barriers don’t apply to each other for very long, the soul-mate principle in all it’s glory. The plot re-enforces the idea that the past can be overcome, you can choose your own future along with the people you want to share it with, blood relatives are not necessarily family.
Before and After shows true love can overcome any obstacle, and it most definitely has to be true love if you can fall in love with the same person not just once but twice ♥
Nazarea Andrews employs ingenious writing techniques within the narrative, not only is the story told in dual narrative but it also switches between the past and the present. While this can often cause confusion for the reader, Nazarea separates both brilliantly by giving Rike’s voice the past while Peyton gets the present. The past and the present are divided by a tragic accident leaving Peyton with memory loss.
The chemistry and deep connection between Rike and Payton is undeniable both in the past and in the present. Viewing their relationship from the two different perspectives and time frames allows the reader to connect the puzzle pieces of Peyton’s memory alongside her. The revelations are kept at a constant pace making the story un-put-downable.
First impression would make you assume Peyton and Rike are so different that any relationship between them would never work. That is until you dig below the surface, their pieces just fit. Peyton is fiercely independent, strong and sassy yet there is a constant underlying vulnerability that makes you want to protect her. Both Peyton and Rike are creative and artistic, passionate without being volatile. They give each other strength ♥
Rike and Peyton have suffered emotionally growing up and have a lot of barriers in place. Although it is as if the barriers don’t apply to each other for very long, the soul-mate principle in all it’s glory. The plot re-enforces the idea that the past can be overcome, you can choose your own future along with the people you want to share it with, blood relatives are not necessarily family.
Before and After shows true love can overcome any obstacle, and it most definitely has to be true love if you can fall in love with the same person not just once but twice ♥
August 2, 2015
4.5 stars!
I seriously picked a great book to be my first Nazarea Andrews book. There was just something about the blurb that caught my attention and that totally carried over to reading the book. I just ate it up. There's so much I loved about it! I didn't want it to end.
Rike and Peyton are so different yet so alike. I loved both of them so much. I loved Rike for how deeply he loved. I loved Peyton for her attitude. The two of them together was just right, even though it wouldn't appear from just looking at them. I loved how they didn't fit the mold. I loved how they fought for each other.
I think part of what makes this book so good is how it's set up. I was able to get into both Rike and Payton's heads, each in a different perspective offering me the best look into who they were. It was really easy to figure out who was doing the talking and what was going on in the story. I loved how it flowed. I loved seeing Peyton and Rike interact with their best friends, Lindsay and Scott. I also loved Peyton's interactions with her brother Brody.
As you can see there was a lot I loved about this book. Sometimes all the elements align and make magic. I'm having a hard time putting what worked in technical terms. This is a book I connected with on an emotional level. There were times when I smiled, times when I felt my heart clench, and even moments of tears. I really felt like I was there experiencing everything Rike and Peyton did. The only thing that could've made it better was if the story was longer. It felt like the ending was abrupt when compared to the pace of the story up to that point. I would've also liked for certain points to be addressed before the book ended.
I do hope Nazarea converts this stand alone to a series. There is so much more I'd like to read and know, especially about Peyton's siblings and parents. I wouldn't mind reading about Brody either. This book really impressed me. I wonder why I waited so long to read a book by Nazarea. Now that I have, I'm looking forward to checking out her back list and eager to see what she writes next.
I seriously picked a great book to be my first Nazarea Andrews book. There was just something about the blurb that caught my attention and that totally carried over to reading the book. I just ate it up. There's so much I loved about it! I didn't want it to end.
Rike and Peyton are so different yet so alike. I loved both of them so much. I loved Rike for how deeply he loved. I loved Peyton for her attitude. The two of them together was just right, even though it wouldn't appear from just looking at them. I loved how they didn't fit the mold. I loved how they fought for each other.
I think part of what makes this book so good is how it's set up. I was able to get into both Rike and Payton's heads, each in a different perspective offering me the best look into who they were. It was really easy to figure out who was doing the talking and what was going on in the story. I loved how it flowed. I loved seeing Peyton and Rike interact with their best friends, Lindsay and Scott. I also loved Peyton's interactions with her brother Brody.
As you can see there was a lot I loved about this book. Sometimes all the elements align and make magic. I'm having a hard time putting what worked in technical terms. This is a book I connected with on an emotional level. There were times when I smiled, times when I felt my heart clench, and even moments of tears. I really felt like I was there experiencing everything Rike and Peyton did. The only thing that could've made it better was if the story was longer. It felt like the ending was abrupt when compared to the pace of the story up to that point. I would've also liked for certain points to be addressed before the book ended.
I do hope Nazarea converts this stand alone to a series. There is so much more I'd like to read and know, especially about Peyton's siblings and parents. I wouldn't mind reading about Brody either. This book really impressed me. I wonder why I waited so long to read a book by Nazarea. Now that I have, I'm looking forward to checking out her back list and eager to see what she writes next.
August 24, 2015
Talk about an intense emotional roller coaster ride that I was not ready to get off of. Nazarea Andrews introduced me to a group of people that pulled me into their lives from the very beginning. When tragedy strikes there are only so many options for you to take, but sometimes even if it’s hard it’s all worth it in the end.
I was mesmerized by the intensity of these characters, their strong bond with one another making the four of them one strong family that each other needed. A family that was made stronger because each of them chose one another and it wasn’t one made out of obligation. We were first introduced to Peyton right after getting into an accident and losing all her memories. Throughout the book it was told from perspective of before the accident and after. It’s always tough when something tragic happens to anyone but I always believe it’s how you deal with it that matters.
Rike, Peyton’s man is trying really hard to give her space until the time she finally realizes who she is and what they are to one another. It’s definitely not easy for him or Lindsey and Scott because they too were affected in this accident that happened to Peyton and Lindsey. It’s just really tough all around. I wouldn’t mind seeing this from Lindsey and Scott’s perspective either. Would be interesting to learn more about them and just hear it firsthand.
Not only were the characters and their story very intense but so were there intimate moments, very intense, strong, freeing for both of them. I know I was very surprised when I first started reading those parts but still it was interesting and kept me more into the story because it really was true to each of their characters.
Overall this was a great quick intense ride that you will enjoy and want more from in the end. You just couldn’t help but root for these people to succeed after the hands they were dealt with in life. Great book, first time reading this author and I would definitely pick up another one to see if it’s just as good as this one was.
I was mesmerized by the intensity of these characters, their strong bond with one another making the four of them one strong family that each other needed. A family that was made stronger because each of them chose one another and it wasn’t one made out of obligation. We were first introduced to Peyton right after getting into an accident and losing all her memories. Throughout the book it was told from perspective of before the accident and after. It’s always tough when something tragic happens to anyone but I always believe it’s how you deal with it that matters.
Rike, Peyton’s man is trying really hard to give her space until the time she finally realizes who she is and what they are to one another. It’s definitely not easy for him or Lindsey and Scott because they too were affected in this accident that happened to Peyton and Lindsey. It’s just really tough all around. I wouldn’t mind seeing this from Lindsey and Scott’s perspective either. Would be interesting to learn more about them and just hear it firsthand.
Not only were the characters and their story very intense but so were there intimate moments, very intense, strong, freeing for both of them. I know I was very surprised when I first started reading those parts but still it was interesting and kept me more into the story because it really was true to each of their characters.
Overall this was a great quick intense ride that you will enjoy and want more from in the end. You just couldn’t help but root for these people to succeed after the hands they were dealt with in life. Great book, first time reading this author and I would definitely pick up another one to see if it’s just as good as this one was.
July 29, 2015
I have tried to devour every Nazarea Andrews book that I can get my hands on (a mission that I am close to accomplishing) and there is one reason why: BECAUSE SHE IS A BRILLIANT WRITER!
As just a side note, before I get into the book, I don’t think that I have ever seen just a versatile author such as Andrews. She can write an amazing zombie series, a haunting dystopian series, and follow it up with a brilliant, heartbreaking love story. She is hands down, one of the bests in my eyes.
On to the book…if I had to describe it in one word, that word would be a sounds. Just a sound because I cannot express to you my feelings of how beautiful, touching, heart wrenching, devastating, and amazing this book was. One of the things that stood out to be was that all of the Before scenes were told from Rike’s point of view. It allows the reader to know how much he loves Peyton and all that he is willing to do for her. All of the After scenes are told from Peyton’s point of view and it shows just how confusing and torturing it is to be in her position at the moment. A great idea to switch the characters out like such and let the reader get to know whom they are falling in love with.
From one reader to another, I found this book to be an emotional rollercoaster (and I love me some rollercoasters.) You get the best of one world (the Before) and the worst of the other (the After.) I found that I really wasn’t emotionally prepared for Andrews brought to the table but I ate it up. It was AHH-MAZING!
And while this story revolves mostly around Jokes (Rike) and Fish (Peyton), there is another couple that I was thoroughly interesting throughout the book. Linds and Scott were a great secondary couple that help bring Jokes and Fish to life.
If you didn’t catch it in my review above, I really loved this book. ☺ It is an absolute must read.
As just a side note, before I get into the book, I don’t think that I have ever seen just a versatile author such as Andrews. She can write an amazing zombie series, a haunting dystopian series, and follow it up with a brilliant, heartbreaking love story. She is hands down, one of the bests in my eyes.
On to the book…if I had to describe it in one word, that word would be a sounds. Just a sound because I cannot express to you my feelings of how beautiful, touching, heart wrenching, devastating, and amazing this book was. One of the things that stood out to be was that all of the Before scenes were told from Rike’s point of view. It allows the reader to know how much he loves Peyton and all that he is willing to do for her. All of the After scenes are told from Peyton’s point of view and it shows just how confusing and torturing it is to be in her position at the moment. A great idea to switch the characters out like such and let the reader get to know whom they are falling in love with.
From one reader to another, I found this book to be an emotional rollercoaster (and I love me some rollercoasters.) You get the best of one world (the Before) and the worst of the other (the After.) I found that I really wasn’t emotionally prepared for Andrews brought to the table but I ate it up. It was AHH-MAZING!
And while this story revolves mostly around Jokes (Rike) and Fish (Peyton), there is another couple that I was thoroughly interesting throughout the book. Linds and Scott were a great secondary couple that help bring Jokes and Fish to life.
If you didn’t catch it in my review above, I really loved this book. ☺ It is an absolute must read.
August 7, 2015
3-3.5 stars
This was an ok read for me. I loved the characters in this book. I was really feeling this story.
But… I just didn’t like how the book was written.
I always have a love hate thing when it comes to books with going back and forth between past and present.
Sometimes it works for me and sometimes it doesn’t. I just hate it when I’m into a certain part of the story….then it’s switches up. It’s hard for me to transition.
It messes up the flow for me. And it almost makes the story drag out.
I wasn’t really feeling it in this book. Every chapter switch back and forth.
And it was killing me.
The whole thing with Peyton was taking way to long to unfold. We get bits and pieces of both of her past and present. We still don’t know the whole story.
I’m just not feeling it at all. Which is sad. Because I like the concept of the story. Just not liking how is executed.
I also felt it was a bit too rushed in the end.
I wanted more consistency between Peyton and Rike. I wanted to fall in love with there past fully all in one shot… Then move on to the present.
I loved how Rike no matter what stayed true to Peyton.
The whole Scott story line was to me a bit out of place. Especially that scene with Lindsay. I get that Rike and Scott are best friends and they do everything together.
But… I just wasn’t feeling it. Because even thought we get a glimpse of the past with all of them. I never felt that connection with him.
Overall this was an ok read for me.
*ARC provided for an honest review*
-Michelle
This was an ok read for me. I loved the characters in this book. I was really feeling this story.
But… I just didn’t like how the book was written.
I always have a love hate thing when it comes to books with going back and forth between past and present.
Sometimes it works for me and sometimes it doesn’t. I just hate it when I’m into a certain part of the story….then it’s switches up. It’s hard for me to transition.
It messes up the flow for me. And it almost makes the story drag out.
I wasn’t really feeling it in this book. Every chapter switch back and forth.
And it was killing me.
The whole thing with Peyton was taking way to long to unfold. We get bits and pieces of both of her past and present. We still don’t know the whole story.
I’m just not feeling it at all. Which is sad. Because I like the concept of the story. Just not liking how is executed.
I also felt it was a bit too rushed in the end.
I wanted more consistency between Peyton and Rike. I wanted to fall in love with there past fully all in one shot… Then move on to the present.
I loved how Rike no matter what stayed true to Peyton.
The whole Scott story line was to me a bit out of place. Especially that scene with Lindsay. I get that Rike and Scott are best friends and they do everything together.
But… I just wasn’t feeling it. Because even thought we get a glimpse of the past with all of them. I never felt that connection with him.
Overall this was an ok read for me.
*ARC provided for an honest review*
-Michelle
July 31, 2015
I received an ARC of this book in exchange for an honest review (I also bought it because I truly enjoyed it).
What would happen if you met and fell in love with the person that, if you truly thought about it, you would not have hand picked yourself? - but then again, love works in ways that connects us with the people that get us, and help us, and those that need and want us. And then what would you do if that person that you found to love and fight with and have fun with and to share your life with - you could not remember?
This is the story of Peyton and Rike, and the love and life that they create together, only to have it disrupted by an accident that leaves Peyton with amnesia -forgetting her best friend, the family that she has grown to love and live with and the love for a man (Rike) that has helped heal them both.
Peyton battles through trying to remember who she was and her life over the past three years. She has a hard time reconciling the life that she is told that she has, with the one that she thought that she would have.
Is Peyton able to work through her frustrations and remember her life? Does she give up on those that have loved her and depended on her so that she can figure out her life and the choices she has been told that she has made?
You must read this story to find out what happens with Peyton and Rike, as well as their friends Lindsay and Scott.
Nazarea Andrews definitely pulls at your heart strings with this story.
What would happen if you met and fell in love with the person that, if you truly thought about it, you would not have hand picked yourself? - but then again, love works in ways that connects us with the people that get us, and help us, and those that need and want us. And then what would you do if that person that you found to love and fight with and have fun with and to share your life with - you could not remember?
This is the story of Peyton and Rike, and the love and life that they create together, only to have it disrupted by an accident that leaves Peyton with amnesia -forgetting her best friend, the family that she has grown to love and live with and the love for a man (Rike) that has helped heal them both.
Peyton battles through trying to remember who she was and her life over the past three years. She has a hard time reconciling the life that she is told that she has, with the one that she thought that she would have.
Is Peyton able to work through her frustrations and remember her life? Does she give up on those that have loved her and depended on her so that she can figure out her life and the choices she has been told that she has made?
You must read this story to find out what happens with Peyton and Rike, as well as their friends Lindsay and Scott.
Nazarea Andrews definitely pulls at your heart strings with this story.
December 6, 2015
Before & After is, at it's heart, a beautiful love story. Nazarea Andrews takes what should be a trite storyline and breathes new life into it. 2 boys (Rike and Scott) meet 2 girls (Peyton and Lindsay). At first they are happy (the "before"). Then tragedy strikes, leaving one girl paralyzed and one girl with amnesia (the "after"). The story is a roller coaster ride through all the characters' emotions, as we watch one of these couples (Rike and Peyron) work though the incredibly difficult, life-altering circumstances they find themselves in. Can they overcome amnesia? Will love find a way? Will Peyton and Rike find their way through and back to each other?
Rike is the epitome of a bad boy - grew up in the foster system, in and out of trouble all his life - a tattooed drummer/song-writer, living the life of a wannabe rock star. Peyton used to be the quintessential good girl - a politician's daughter who rebelled and fell into drugs, sex, and anorexia. These two damaged young people should have nothing in common....instead they bring out the best in each other. Their story is both lovely and heartbreaking, and I wouldn't have missed it for the world. I hope to see the rest of Scott and Lindsey's story in the next book.
I received an eARC of this book in exchange for an honest review.
Rike is the epitome of a bad boy - grew up in the foster system, in and out of trouble all his life - a tattooed drummer/song-writer, living the life of a wannabe rock star. Peyton used to be the quintessential good girl - a politician's daughter who rebelled and fell into drugs, sex, and anorexia. These two damaged young people should have nothing in common....instead they bring out the best in each other. Their story is both lovely and heartbreaking, and I wouldn't have missed it for the world. I hope to see the rest of Scott and Lindsey's story in the next book.
I received an eARC of this book in exchange for an honest review.
August 3, 2015
I love this story! And everything about it. I love the pacing and the dual POV (which sometimes I really can't stand in books but with this one it works extremely well!) the story isn't one I've read a hundred times before, it's gritty and raw and real. These characters are so relatable, and you just want to live in their world and hear the guys play their songs and hang out with Pey and Linds.
It's quirky and fun, which is why I say it's better to me than "The Vow" yes, that was a true story and it's not dismissing what that couple went through because I can only imagine the hell they went through and the long road it took to get them back together its just saying that this book deserves to have a place with stories that can affect you and make you think.
I saw this book while I was pre ordering another book and clicked on it because I thought the cover was beautiful it drew me right in, and I started it on a Sunday night when I was supposed to be spending quality time with my love, I kept sneaking chapters in here and there haha the story draws you right in is totally my excuse! And I was excited to wake up at 5;30 in the morning just so I could finish this amazing story. I highly recommend this book if you are looking for a refreshingly different read.
It's quirky and fun, which is why I say it's better to me than "The Vow" yes, that was a true story and it's not dismissing what that couple went through because I can only imagine the hell they went through and the long road it took to get them back together its just saying that this book deserves to have a place with stories that can affect you and make you think.
I saw this book while I was pre ordering another book and clicked on it because I thought the cover was beautiful it drew me right in, and I started it on a Sunday night when I was supposed to be spending quality time with my love, I kept sneaking chapters in here and there haha the story draws you right in is totally my excuse! And I was excited to wake up at 5;30 in the morning just so I could finish this amazing story. I highly recommend this book if you are looking for a refreshingly different read.
August 1, 2015
I received this galley in exchange for an honest review.
Before & After is told through the perspectives of the two main characters, Peyton and Rike. I am a huge fan of duel POV stories. The story was truly original in the way the author chose to write it. Peyton’s POV is set in the “after”, and Rike’s POV is set in “before”. I enjoyed reading how they met and fell in love in “before”, but it was “after” that broke my heart. We know a few things, but we pretty much learn what is going on at the same time that Peyton is learning them.
While I enjoyed the story, there were a few things that turned me off. I would have lied to learn more about Peyton’s and Rike’s past from before they met. We know Peyton hates her parents, but they didn’t seem all that bad to me. Sure they were overbearing and didn’t accept her life choices, but they weren’t the horrible people she made them out to be. Concerning Rike, we know the basics of his past and some of the things he went through, but I was definitely looking for more of his story.
Overall, I enjoyed Before & After. It was the first book I read from Nazarea Andrews, but I heard good things about her other works!
Before & After is told through the perspectives of the two main characters, Peyton and Rike. I am a huge fan of duel POV stories. The story was truly original in the way the author chose to write it. Peyton’s POV is set in the “after”, and Rike’s POV is set in “before”. I enjoyed reading how they met and fell in love in “before”, but it was “after” that broke my heart. We know a few things, but we pretty much learn what is going on at the same time that Peyton is learning them.
While I enjoyed the story, there were a few things that turned me off. I would have lied to learn more about Peyton’s and Rike’s past from before they met. We know Peyton hates her parents, but they didn’t seem all that bad to me. Sure they were overbearing and didn’t accept her life choices, but they weren’t the horrible people she made them out to be. Concerning Rike, we know the basics of his past and some of the things he went through, but I was definitely looking for more of his story.
Overall, I enjoyed Before & After. It was the first book I read from Nazarea Andrews, but I heard good things about her other works!
July 31, 2015
An amazing story that will break your heart
Ahhh the feels. If only we could all find a Rike. What would you do if you woke up not knowing the person you are? The person you've grown into the last three years. A family that would do anything for you that you don't even remember? Would you trust others or would you try to find that person on your own? "Do you think, that if a person doesn't remember where they came from, they're still bound by the decisions that they made before?" Oh dear Rike, to stand by and love someone so wholeheartedly, so unselfishly, just broke my heart. "If you need to be someone who isn't with me, I'll let you go, Peyton."
I have to say the alternating POVs made this book amazing. Getting to see Rike in Before, a boy who has never been shown love and Peyton in After, a girl who can't believe this is her life, made me want to cry for the both of them.
Ahhh the feels. If only we could all find a Rike. What would you do if you woke up not knowing the person you are? The person you've grown into the last three years. A family that would do anything for you that you don't even remember? Would you trust others or would you try to find that person on your own? "Do you think, that if a person doesn't remember where they came from, they're still bound by the decisions that they made before?" Oh dear Rike, to stand by and love someone so wholeheartedly, so unselfishly, just broke my heart. "If you need to be someone who isn't with me, I'll let you go, Peyton."
I have to say the alternating POVs made this book amazing. Getting to see Rike in Before, a boy who has never been shown love and Peyton in After, a girl who can't believe this is her life, made me want to cry for the both of them.
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