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Circling Back
A second chance is only the beginning…
Stella fled home at seventeen with a broken heart, an unplanned pregnancy, and a vow never to look back. Twenty years later, she has a career she enjoys and a solid relationship with the child she placed for open adoption. When that child goes in search of her birth father and calls for assistance, Stella is forced to return to her hometown and face the men who broke her heart, one of whom fathered her child.
Gavin and Holden raised a lot of hell as teenagers. They broke the law, broke their mothers’ hearts, and almost broke each other before they finally got their act together. Through all the ups and downs, they stuck by each other and managed to build a happy life together. The one thing they couldn’t do was forget the woman they’d loved and lost.
Forced to face the past and each other after so many years is no small feat. The trio does their best to make amends and put the past behind them while forging new bonds. Old feelings are rekindled and new emotions emerge from the ashes of their youthful indiscretions. Something remarkable could be on the horizon if they’re strong enough to navigate the pitfalls of a triad relationship and stand strong against the outside forces conspiring to bring them to their knees.
Stella fled home at seventeen with a broken heart, an unplanned pregnancy, and a vow never to look back. Twenty years later, she has a career she enjoys and a solid relationship with the child she placed for open adoption. When that child goes in search of her birth father and calls for assistance, Stella is forced to return to her hometown and face the men who broke her heart, one of whom fathered her child.
Gavin and Holden raised a lot of hell as teenagers. They broke the law, broke their mothers’ hearts, and almost broke each other before they finally got their act together. Through all the ups and downs, they stuck by each other and managed to build a happy life together. The one thing they couldn’t do was forget the woman they’d loved and lost.
Forced to face the past and each other after so many years is no small feat. The trio does their best to make amends and put the past behind them while forging new bonds. Old feelings are rekindled and new emotions emerge from the ashes of their youthful indiscretions. Something remarkable could be on the horizon if they’re strong enough to navigate the pitfalls of a triad relationship and stand strong against the outside forces conspiring to bring them to their knees.
178 pages, Kindle Edition
First published August 10, 2015
74 people are currently reading
227 people want to read
About the author
Amanda Young
130 books401 followersA bestselling author of erotic romance, Amanda Young penned her first romance at eighteen. That novel was promptly deleted before it could traumatize innocent readers. After several years of honing her craft, Amanda went on to receive her first publishing contract in 2006.
A vivid imagination and a passion for all the things that go bump in the night has led Amanda to create provocative stories that push boundaries and dare readers to expand their comfort zones. Since she tends to write whatever strikes her fancy, her novels fall into many different subgenres. Among her available titles you’ll find contemporary and paranormal settings, gay and straight themes alike.
Amanda Young lives in Virginia with her husband, daughter, and two pampered pooches. When she’s not writing, she can usually be found chasing after a mischievous toddler or daydreaming about the characters in her next book. She loves to hear from her readers, and can be found on Facebook and Twitter. Her website, www.amandayoung.org, is where you can find up-to-date information on all of Amanda’s current and upcoming releases.
A vivid imagination and a passion for all the things that go bump in the night has led Amanda to create provocative stories that push boundaries and dare readers to expand their comfort zones. Since she tends to write whatever strikes her fancy, her novels fall into many different subgenres. Among her available titles you’ll find contemporary and paranormal settings, gay and straight themes alike.
Amanda Young lives in Virginia with her husband, daughter, and two pampered pooches. When she’s not writing, she can usually be found chasing after a mischievous toddler or daydreaming about the characters in her next book. She loves to hear from her readers, and can be found on Facebook and Twitter. Her website, www.amandayoung.org, is where you can find up-to-date information on all of Amanda’s current and upcoming releases.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 36 reviews
December 13, 2023
Lots of Making Up for Lost Time
3.5 stars - I feel for Stella Moening and immediately think she may have been rash, but she made the best decision she could for a seventeen year-old with the information she had. Fast forward twenty years. As painful as it is to return to the "scene of the crime," so to speak, I like that she steps up to the plate to give Mae what she wants.
Holden Johnson / Moore and Gavin Johnson (honestly, their last names are inconsistent so I have no idea) are both good men and the second chance with Stella, while definitely not bump free, is sweet and sexy. Overall, I like the way things muddle along, how the individual connections are repaired, the high heat, and how truly adult they were when the truth came to light.
I listened to the audio book. The narrator is Logan McAllister. I like him, but a female counterpart would've been preferred. There are some editing mistakes and the audio quality isn't very crisp. All in all, it's a decent listen.
Story: 3.5 stars
Narration: 3.5 stars
Listening Speed: 1.6x
3.5 stars - I feel for Stella Moening and immediately think she may have been rash, but she made the best decision she could for a seventeen year-old with the information she had. Fast forward twenty years. As painful as it is to return to the "scene of the crime," so to speak, I like that she steps up to the plate to give Mae what she wants.
Holden Johnson / Moore and Gavin Johnson (honestly, their last names are inconsistent so I have no idea) are both good men and the second chance with Stella, while definitely not bump free, is sweet and sexy. Overall, I like the way things muddle along, how the individual connections are repaired, the high heat, and how truly adult they were when the truth came to light.
I listened to the audio book. The narrator is Logan McAllister. I like him, but a female counterpart would've been preferred. There are some editing mistakes and the audio quality isn't very crisp. All in all, it's a decent listen.
Story: 3.5 stars
Narration: 3.5 stars
Listening Speed: 1.6x
August 12, 2015
I love second chance romance books. If i had to describe this book in one sentence it would probably go something like... A sweet second chance love story with steamy hot moments.
Stella fled 20 years ago after finding out she was pregnant. during the last 20 years she has stayed away from Holden and Gavin as well as kept the secret of having a child whom she gave up for adoption. Mae wants to know who her father is and asks Stella to come back to her hometown and meet with them all to do a DNA test. When they are all in the same room you can feel the tension they are all carrying through the book. While waiting for the results of the DNA the three get re-acquainted with each other and it feels like no time has gone by. They are all still in love with one another but there are some people who not only disagree with the lifestyle the three have but are also against Holden and Gaven being together.
This book has it all, Second chance love, steamy bedroom scenes, drama, suspense. At any moment you are like what is going to happen next.
What happens when the results come back. Will one be jealous of the other for fathering a child or will they all work it out and be happy? Do Gavin and Holden have room in their relationship for Stella long term or do things die out after a time? One click this amazing read today and find out.
Stella fled 20 years ago after finding out she was pregnant. during the last 20 years she has stayed away from Holden and Gavin as well as kept the secret of having a child whom she gave up for adoption. Mae wants to know who her father is and asks Stella to come back to her hometown and meet with them all to do a DNA test. When they are all in the same room you can feel the tension they are all carrying through the book. While waiting for the results of the DNA the three get re-acquainted with each other and it feels like no time has gone by. They are all still in love with one another but there are some people who not only disagree with the lifestyle the three have but are also against Holden and Gaven being together.
This book has it all, Second chance love, steamy bedroom scenes, drama, suspense. At any moment you are like what is going to happen next.
What happens when the results come back. Will one be jealous of the other for fathering a child or will they all work it out and be happy? Do Gavin and Holden have room in their relationship for Stella long term or do things die out after a time? One click this amazing read today and find out.
April 5, 2020
Not what I expected...
Wsecond chance love story, twenty years after 3 teenagers separated because of a mistake. I expected remorse, trepidation on meeting again & mutual respect & understanding but there was little emotional connection, from my pov. The book was written in 2015, so not "out of date" but it really didn't feel like a contemporary novel. On several occasions the MF referred to herself as middleaged & to both MM the same! Now I am considerably older than the MCs but I definitely didn't think that I was "middle-aged @ 37! Neither is my daughter-in-law, a first time mother at the same age, along with thousands of others. This was a new author & the writing conveyed the story, but no" feels".
Wsecond chance love story, twenty years after 3 teenagers separated because of a mistake. I expected remorse, trepidation on meeting again & mutual respect & understanding but there was little emotional connection, from my pov. The book was written in 2015, so not "out of date" but it really didn't feel like a contemporary novel. On several occasions the MF referred to herself as middleaged & to both MM the same! Now I am considerably older than the MCs but I definitely didn't think that I was "middle-aged @ 37! Neither is my daughter-in-law, a first time mother at the same age, along with thousands of others. This was a new author & the writing conveyed the story, but no" feels".
August 1, 2015
I was given this book by Inked Rainbow Reads for an honest review.
This was my first book book to read by Amanda Young. I enjoyed her style of writing. The story read fast and flowed well. A cute love story of 2nd chances.
I thought the chemistry was good between Holden, Gavin and Stella, it seemed they could just take off where they left their relationship years back. The sex between the three was quite steamy. I would have liked a little more about Mae, there really wasn't much development of her character.
I did think it was a good read and will look to read more by this author.
July 23, 2019
DNF I know you shouldn't assume something about someone based on their name, but since my name is also Amanda, I assumed the writer was a woman as well. However, after reading roughly 50% of this book, I'm not so sure. Yes the concept of redemption in storytelling is always great, but this book did not have that.
A young woman at 17, who barely understands her own sexuality finds the two guys she's involved with together the very night she finds out she's pregnant, so she leaves and does what is best for her. 20 years later she's unhappily reunited with them. They had no idea why she left, and this is where the story starts to fall apart. The two men aren't surprised she knows they're in a relationship, they treat her like the villain for not wanting to be a teen mom (for which she unnecessarily apologized repeatedly) and after 20 years they don't ask about her life, if she's married, has other children, nothing. There is one confrontation and then all is forgiven, except for a dig at Stella from Holden.
" H-'I missed you too. You ripped my heart out when you disappeared.' S- I'm sorry. If I could go back...' H-Shh. No more apologies' "
Then why bring it up!!!! This doesn't feel like a story written by a woman. It feel like a book written by a man who wants women to just forgive and forget. I'm sorry but when we meet Stella she is jaded, emotional closed off, and withdrawn from living any sort of happy life. Then the very reason(s), the two men, are back in her life and she's suddenly full of life and joy. Give me a break!
A young woman at 17, who barely understands her own sexuality finds the two guys she's involved with together the very night she finds out she's pregnant, so she leaves and does what is best for her. 20 years later she's unhappily reunited with them. They had no idea why she left, and this is where the story starts to fall apart. The two men aren't surprised she knows they're in a relationship, they treat her like the villain for not wanting to be a teen mom (for which she unnecessarily apologized repeatedly) and after 20 years they don't ask about her life, if she's married, has other children, nothing. There is one confrontation and then all is forgiven, except for a dig at Stella from Holden.
" H-'I missed you too. You ripped my heart out when you disappeared.' S- I'm sorry. If I could go back...' H-Shh. No more apologies' "
Then why bring it up!!!! This doesn't feel like a story written by a woman. It feel like a book written by a man who wants women to just forgive and forget. I'm sorry but when we meet Stella she is jaded, emotional closed off, and withdrawn from living any sort of happy life. Then the very reason(s), the two men, are back in her life and she's suddenly full of life and joy. Give me a break!
December 1, 2017
A woman’s past catches up to her when the child she gave up for adoption wants to find not only her mother, but her father as well. Problem is, she ran from the father when she discovered the only two guys she slept with in high school were in love with each other. Hasn’t been back there since. What will happen when the three of them meet again?
I really enjoyed this! I adore the idea of a polyamorous relationship that works so well. I would have liked to see more of the daughter however. The reactions of the characters were quite believable, most people are completely unaware of polyamory and have never considered it. The steamy scenes between each couple and the triad were well done and super sexy. As an independent reviewer for Romance Authors that Rock, I gave it four hearts for awesomeness and entertainment!
I really enjoyed this! I adore the idea of a polyamorous relationship that works so well. I would have liked to see more of the daughter however. The reactions of the characters were quite believable, most people are completely unaware of polyamory and have never considered it. The steamy scenes between each couple and the triad were well done and super sexy. As an independent reviewer for Romance Authors that Rock, I gave it four hearts for awesomeness and entertainment!
September 22, 2018
It's a question of morals
I like Amanda young i think and I know I love a good menage. What I hate is betrayal from a person who supposedly loves another. I feel real love includes respect. So I didn't like these characters and did not finish the book. But.... I always appreciate the talent necessary to craft a three some lifestyle.
I like Amanda young i think and I know I love a good menage. What I hate is betrayal from a person who supposedly loves another. I feel real love includes respect. So I didn't like these characters and did not finish the book. But.... I always appreciate the talent necessary to craft a three some lifestyle.
August 10, 2015
3.5 star review to come
August 30, 2020
Pregnant and betrayed, Stella left home at 17, gave her daughter up for adoption and moved on with her life. Twenty years later, her daughter, seeking to find her father, reconnects Stella with the two men who broke her heart all those years ago. Can they move beyond past hurts and create a new life together?
First, the story. I do not expect much of relatively short erotica novels in terms of story and character development and as such, I found this storyline adequate. The author included a couple of interesting twists to keep things interesting and the characters were generally likeable, there was just very little depth to them. I would have liked to see more about Mae as she was the catalyst for the story. I liked that Stella was older, at 37, and was not the perfect size 6 girl but was a mature woman with curves and a few extra pounds like most of us. There were a number of very steamy scenes both MF and MM and MMF. I was disappointed that the only MF scenes were with Stella and Holden. Gavin often seemed like an afterthought, even in the menage scenes. I liked the relationship between Gavin and Holden. It really came across that they had been together for a long time. I was disappointed that the issue of their formal relationship as a trio was not really resolved. It was brought up when Gavin was in the hospital that Holden was his husband and Stella had no rights. They expressed their love for each other but never had any discussion about how to formalize their relationship. Other than moving in with them, there really was no commitment among them. Is Stella forever going to be an “add on” to their marriage?
I have listened to other stories by Amanda Young, and in fact grabbed this one based on past experience, and this was solidly in the middle of the pack.
Second, the narrator. Logan McAllister actually did a nice job with the narration. His voice was pleasing, with good inflection and he did well voicing the various characters. I think in a good recording he would have quite the sexy voice.
Lastly, the sound engineering. The sound on this audiobook was absolutely terrible. I really had to look beyond it to adequately rate the story and the narration. This really should be re-recorded. It is bad enough that I believe it is wrong to charge people for it. The audio consistently has a hollow, echoey sound, as one reviewer stated “like talking into a can”, that comes and goes. Even at the best of the recording, the sound is hollow. In addition there are over a dozen times when phrases are repeated…like there was a blip in the recording. Overall, bad job recording this and shame on the author for releasing such a subpar technical product. Do yourself a favor and grab the kindle book version instead.
***I received a free copy of this audiobook in exchange for my own unbiased review.***
First, the story. I do not expect much of relatively short erotica novels in terms of story and character development and as such, I found this storyline adequate. The author included a couple of interesting twists to keep things interesting and the characters were generally likeable, there was just very little depth to them. I would have liked to see more about Mae as she was the catalyst for the story. I liked that Stella was older, at 37, and was not the perfect size 6 girl but was a mature woman with curves and a few extra pounds like most of us. There were a number of very steamy scenes both MF and MM and MMF. I was disappointed that the only MF scenes were with Stella and Holden. Gavin often seemed like an afterthought, even in the menage scenes. I liked the relationship between Gavin and Holden. It really came across that they had been together for a long time. I was disappointed that the issue of their formal relationship as a trio was not really resolved. It was brought up when Gavin was in the hospital that Holden was his husband and Stella had no rights. They expressed their love for each other but never had any discussion about how to formalize their relationship. Other than moving in with them, there really was no commitment among them. Is Stella forever going to be an “add on” to their marriage?
I have listened to other stories by Amanda Young, and in fact grabbed this one based on past experience, and this was solidly in the middle of the pack.
Second, the narrator. Logan McAllister actually did a nice job with the narration. His voice was pleasing, with good inflection and he did well voicing the various characters. I think in a good recording he would have quite the sexy voice.
Lastly, the sound engineering. The sound on this audiobook was absolutely terrible. I really had to look beyond it to adequately rate the story and the narration. This really should be re-recorded. It is bad enough that I believe it is wrong to charge people for it. The audio consistently has a hollow, echoey sound, as one reviewer stated “like talking into a can”, that comes and goes. Even at the best of the recording, the sound is hollow. In addition there are over a dozen times when phrases are repeated…like there was a blip in the recording. Overall, bad job recording this and shame on the author for releasing such a subpar technical product. Do yourself a favor and grab the kindle book version instead.
***I received a free copy of this audiobook in exchange for my own unbiased review.***
July 2, 2019
Loved it so much
I feel in love from the beginning. We watch as a woman confronts the past and moves on with a future. We watch as they find the love they lost and how its even stronger.
I feel in love from the beginning. We watch as a woman confronts the past and moves on with a future. We watch as they find the love they lost and how its even stronger.
September 3, 2021
Hot and spicy three some. I loved every single minute, It is a pity it was not longer. I would have preferred if the story lasted until the baby arrive or an epilogue that gives an update of their lives after a few years but the story still rocks.
October 3, 2020
Great Book
I like your style, and the universe you have written into. Thank you for your hard work on this book.
I like your style, and the universe you have written into. Thank you for your hard work on this book.
August 25, 2021
I liked this one. I live menage and this one hit the spot for me.
September 13, 2022
⭐️⭐️⭐️ 1/2
June 24, 2024
Told in all 3 POVs with a HEA ending
December 23, 2025
This is a great second chance romance for this threesome. It’s a lovely sweet romance that will have you wanting more. A brilliant performance.
September 13, 2015
FourStars
This was my first book book to read by Amanda Young. I enjoyed her style of writing. The story read fast and flowed well. A cute love story of 2nd chances.
I thought the chemistry was good between Holden, Gavin and Stella, it seemed they could just take off where they left their relationship years back. The sex between the three was quite steamy. I would have liked a little more about Mae, there really wasn't much development of her character.
I did think it was a good read and will look to read more by this author.
I received a free copy of this book to read and review for Inked Rainbow Reads.
Sherry
FourStars
Let me start out by saying that I enjoyed the story so much, that I bumped the star rating up by 1. However, this book needs editing. There are so many incorrect words and misspellings, I actually thought to myself whether or not this had been edited at all. I found it distracting.
As for the actual content, it was a great, sweet story. I liked the fact that the story did not really dwell on the past, it was more about the right here and now. I really liked Stella's character and how she was able to put her own issues aside to help her daughter, Mae.
Then you have Holden and Gavin. Even before they knew what type of love they were looking for, they had found it in each other. But, young love is confusing and not always easy. I enjoyed how they had their own relationship, their own lives and supported each other wholeheartedly.
The chemistry between all three of them is steamy and I liked how realistic their relationship seemed. The mystery was not so much a mystery. I wish we would have heard more about the co-worker that Holden had and about Mae and the relationship between her and Stella, Holden and Gavin, but I understand that this was a story about the three of them.
I enjoyed that you also got to see the relationship between Holden and Gavin, separate from their relationship between them and Stella. It was nice that their relationship did not get lost in the shuffle.
Overall, like I said in the beginning, I enjoyed this story. It just needs a little more editing and it will be perfect.
I received a free copy of this book to read and review for Inked Rainbow Reads.
AvidReader
ThreeStar
I felt like I was missing something with this book. It had a neat little 2nd chances spin to it though.
There was an interesting dynamic between the three of the main characters. The men lived as a married gay couple, but once Stella comes back, they are only with her, which I didn't care for. It was never the two men together and her with them. They always were there to please her, which wouldn't work long term, not in most relationships anyway.
I have to say the plot was predictable and I saw every 'surprise' coming, however, I did like the author's style. It is what kept me reading through quite a few silly (and awkward) statements that weren't meant to be funny.
I'd likely try another book from this author in the hopes that it was just this book that didn't quite work for me because the writing style was so good.
I received a free copy of this book to read and review for Inked Rainbow Reads.
Renee
This was my first book book to read by Amanda Young. I enjoyed her style of writing. The story read fast and flowed well. A cute love story of 2nd chances.
I thought the chemistry was good between Holden, Gavin and Stella, it seemed they could just take off where they left their relationship years back. The sex between the three was quite steamy. I would have liked a little more about Mae, there really wasn't much development of her character.
I did think it was a good read and will look to read more by this author.
I received a free copy of this book to read and review for Inked Rainbow Reads.
Sherry
FourStars
Let me start out by saying that I enjoyed the story so much, that I bumped the star rating up by 1. However, this book needs editing. There are so many incorrect words and misspellings, I actually thought to myself whether or not this had been edited at all. I found it distracting.
As for the actual content, it was a great, sweet story. I liked the fact that the story did not really dwell on the past, it was more about the right here and now. I really liked Stella's character and how she was able to put her own issues aside to help her daughter, Mae.
Then you have Holden and Gavin. Even before they knew what type of love they were looking for, they had found it in each other. But, young love is confusing and not always easy. I enjoyed how they had their own relationship, their own lives and supported each other wholeheartedly.
The chemistry between all three of them is steamy and I liked how realistic their relationship seemed. The mystery was not so much a mystery. I wish we would have heard more about the co-worker that Holden had and about Mae and the relationship between her and Stella, Holden and Gavin, but I understand that this was a story about the three of them.
I enjoyed that you also got to see the relationship between Holden and Gavin, separate from their relationship between them and Stella. It was nice that their relationship did not get lost in the shuffle.
Overall, like I said in the beginning, I enjoyed this story. It just needs a little more editing and it will be perfect.
I received a free copy of this book to read and review for Inked Rainbow Reads.
AvidReader
ThreeStar
I felt like I was missing something with this book. It had a neat little 2nd chances spin to it though.
There was an interesting dynamic between the three of the main characters. The men lived as a married gay couple, but once Stella comes back, they are only with her, which I didn't care for. It was never the two men together and her with them. They always were there to please her, which wouldn't work long term, not in most relationships anyway.
I have to say the plot was predictable and I saw every 'surprise' coming, however, I did like the author's style. It is what kept me reading through quite a few silly (and awkward) statements that weren't meant to be funny.
I'd likely try another book from this author in the hopes that it was just this book that didn't quite work for me because the writing style was so good.
I received a free copy of this book to read and review for Inked Rainbow Reads.
Renee
August 3, 2015
Received a copy in exchange for an honest review
“Between one blink and the next, Holden was off the bed and heading out of the room. She ogled his sexy, retreating @ss and then crawled toward Gavin. She pressed her lips to the inside of his knee and kissed her way up his muscular thigh.”
4 stars. This book was a pretty sexy read. The relationship between the three characters, seemed so genuine and you could feel the love beaming off the page. Great book!
Stella fled home at seventeen with a broken heart, an unplanned pregnancy, and a vow never to look back. Twenty years later, she has a career she enjoys and a solid relationship with the child she placed for open adoption. When that child goes in search of her birth father and calls for assistance, Stella is forced to return to her hometown and face the men who broke her heart, one of whom fathered her child.
Gavin and Holden raised a lot of hell as teenagers. They broke the law, broke their mother's hearts, and almost broke each other before they finally got their act together. Through all the ups and downs, they stuck by each other and managed to build a happy life together. The one thing they couldn’t do was forget the woman they’d loved and lost.
Forced to face the past and each other after so many years is no small feat. The trio does their best to make amends and put the past behind them while forging new bonds. Old feelings are rekindled and new emotions emerge from the ashes of their youthful indiscretions. Something remarkable could be on the horizon if they’re strong enough to navigate the pitfalls of a triad relationship and stand strong against the outside forces conspiring to bring them to their knees.
Stella and her two male best friends Gavin and Holden were the closest anyone could be in high school. They shared everything, even if that meant each other. After one night of passion, Stella finds out she’s pregnant, excited to share the news with her boys, she heads over to tell them the great news. Once she gets there, she’s surprised to see that Gavin and Holden were engaged in their own little passionate affair. Humiliated she runs away and never tells them about the baby. Cut to 18 years later, Stella put her daughter up for adoption and she’s ready to find out who her biological father is. Agreeing to meet up with Gavin and Holden to get answers, she’s afraid of how they’ll react to her leaving them and never telling them about their daughter. Gavin and Holden are now lovers and living together but neither of the men can deny the attraction they still have for Stella. And well Stella can’t deny it either. After meeting together, they all decide to give their relationship a go again. But how will the world react to these three coming together?? They of course fall into problems and things try to come in between their budding romance…..will they survive??
**Received a copy in exchange for an honest review. Read and reviewed by Melissa for Alpha Book Club**
“Between one blink and the next, Holden was off the bed and heading out of the room. She ogled his sexy, retreating @ss and then crawled toward Gavin. She pressed her lips to the inside of his knee and kissed her way up his muscular thigh.”
4 stars. This book was a pretty sexy read. The relationship between the three characters, seemed so genuine and you could feel the love beaming off the page. Great book!
Stella fled home at seventeen with a broken heart, an unplanned pregnancy, and a vow never to look back. Twenty years later, she has a career she enjoys and a solid relationship with the child she placed for open adoption. When that child goes in search of her birth father and calls for assistance, Stella is forced to return to her hometown and face the men who broke her heart, one of whom fathered her child.
Gavin and Holden raised a lot of hell as teenagers. They broke the law, broke their mother's hearts, and almost broke each other before they finally got their act together. Through all the ups and downs, they stuck by each other and managed to build a happy life together. The one thing they couldn’t do was forget the woman they’d loved and lost.
Forced to face the past and each other after so many years is no small feat. The trio does their best to make amends and put the past behind them while forging new bonds. Old feelings are rekindled and new emotions emerge from the ashes of their youthful indiscretions. Something remarkable could be on the horizon if they’re strong enough to navigate the pitfalls of a triad relationship and stand strong against the outside forces conspiring to bring them to their knees.
Stella and her two male best friends Gavin and Holden were the closest anyone could be in high school. They shared everything, even if that meant each other. After one night of passion, Stella finds out she’s pregnant, excited to share the news with her boys, she heads over to tell them the great news. Once she gets there, she’s surprised to see that Gavin and Holden were engaged in their own little passionate affair. Humiliated she runs away and never tells them about the baby. Cut to 18 years later, Stella put her daughter up for adoption and she’s ready to find out who her biological father is. Agreeing to meet up with Gavin and Holden to get answers, she’s afraid of how they’ll react to her leaving them and never telling them about their daughter. Gavin and Holden are now lovers and living together but neither of the men can deny the attraction they still have for Stella. And well Stella can’t deny it either. After meeting together, they all decide to give their relationship a go again. But how will the world react to these three coming together?? They of course fall into problems and things try to come in between their budding romance…..will they survive??
**Received a copy in exchange for an honest review. Read and reviewed by Melissa for Alpha Book Club**
August 11, 2015
I received this book from Enticing Journey Book Promotions in return for a fair and honest review.
If asked to describe this book, I would say it's a sweet love story with steamy moments. The three main characters have all aged from when they first met and I loved that they were all 'normal'. Stella is described as "fat" at one point, she is immediately defended but still, it's nice to read about someone in their late 30's who isn't a skinny jim. Yes, I know there are some but bodies come in all shapes and sizes and it's wonderful to have a story that reflects that.
The storyline is simple enough - Stella witnesses something that destroys everything she believes at a young age and runs away to another part of the country, with help from her mum. Gavin and Holden are left behind and stay together. Stella gives her baby up for adoption but is able to have an open adoption and so is able to spend time with her daughter as she grows. When the time comes that Mae wants to know more, Stella has to take a trip down memory lane.
So, the good parts of the book is that the characters are all definitely believable. Gavin and Holden have, and maintain, a relationship both with and without Stella. The story moves along at a steady pace and is well-written.
The not so good parts (for me) is that although Mae is the catalyst that sets everything in motion, I didn't actually learn much about her. I know the story focussed on the 3 main characters but I still felt that Mae was sort of missed out, and the ending - with the words spoken by Gavin - reinforced that opinion. There are a few editing and grammatical errors in the book too, nothing to jarring but still noticeable.
If you want a sweet and steamy ménage with normal characters in a contemporary setting, then I can definitely recommend giving this one a go.
Merissa
Archaeolibrarian - I Dig Good Books!
If asked to describe this book, I would say it's a sweet love story with steamy moments. The three main characters have all aged from when they first met and I loved that they were all 'normal'. Stella is described as "fat" at one point, she is immediately defended but still, it's nice to read about someone in their late 30's who isn't a skinny jim. Yes, I know there are some but bodies come in all shapes and sizes and it's wonderful to have a story that reflects that.
The storyline is simple enough - Stella witnesses something that destroys everything she believes at a young age and runs away to another part of the country, with help from her mum. Gavin and Holden are left behind and stay together. Stella gives her baby up for adoption but is able to have an open adoption and so is able to spend time with her daughter as she grows. When the time comes that Mae wants to know more, Stella has to take a trip down memory lane.
So, the good parts of the book is that the characters are all definitely believable. Gavin and Holden have, and maintain, a relationship both with and without Stella. The story moves along at a steady pace and is well-written.
The not so good parts (for me) is that although Mae is the catalyst that sets everything in motion, I didn't actually learn much about her. I know the story focussed on the 3 main characters but I still felt that Mae was sort of missed out, and the ending - with the words spoken by Gavin - reinforced that opinion. There are a few editing and grammatical errors in the book too, nothing to jarring but still noticeable.
If you want a sweet and steamy ménage with normal characters in a contemporary setting, then I can definitely recommend giving this one a go.
Merissa
Archaeolibrarian - I Dig Good Books!
August 12, 2015
Circling Back is a second chance love story with a twist, as it involves three people not two. A lot of you will know that I love MMF ménage romances, so I was really looking forward to this book and it didn't disappoint. It is full of love and emotion and it also has some very steamy moments. The storyline is interesting and it flowed well. The characters were well rounded and their emotions felt real to me. It took me a couple of chapters to connect with and like the heroine, but I fell in love with the two heroes straight away. This is a sexy, enjoyable book and I would definitely read more from this author in the future.
When she was just seventeen Stella fled from her hometown with a broken heart and a baby on the way. She put her baby up for adoption, but remained involved in her life. Twenty years later Stella's daughter wants to find her father so Stella is forced to face the two men who broke her heart. Gavin and Holden are understandably shocked to discover that one of them fathered a child, and they are angry about missing so much of their daughter's life. Can they forgive Stella? And now they are older and wiser, can the three of them live happily together as a trio?
Initially I found it hard to forgive Stella for not giving the guys a chance to know that they had a child, but we discover that she had her reasons and of course she was very young. Gavin and Holden are just adorable and their relationship together was both sweet and hot - and it got even hotter when Stella rejoined them. I enjoyed this book, it's a nice easy read with a good balance of plot to sexy times. Four stars.
I received a copy of this book in exchange for a honest review.
When she was just seventeen Stella fled from her hometown with a broken heart and a baby on the way. She put her baby up for adoption, but remained involved in her life. Twenty years later Stella's daughter wants to find her father so Stella is forced to face the two men who broke her heart. Gavin and Holden are understandably shocked to discover that one of them fathered a child, and they are angry about missing so much of their daughter's life. Can they forgive Stella? And now they are older and wiser, can the three of them live happily together as a trio?
Initially I found it hard to forgive Stella for not giving the guys a chance to know that they had a child, but we discover that she had her reasons and of course she was very young. Gavin and Holden are just adorable and their relationship together was both sweet and hot - and it got even hotter when Stella rejoined them. I enjoyed this book, it's a nice easy read with a good balance of plot to sexy times. Four stars.
I received a copy of this book in exchange for a honest review.
August 3, 2015
Circling Back by Amanda Young
4 stars
I was given this book for an honest review by Inked Rainbow Reads.
Let me start out by saying that I enjoyed the story so much, that I bumped the star rating up by 1. However, this book needs editing. There are so many incorrect words and misspellings, I actually thought to myself whether or not this had been edited at all. I found it distracting.
As for the actual content, it was a great, sweet story. I liked the fact that the story did not really dwell on the past, it was more about the right here and now. I really liked Stella's character and how she was able to put her own issues aside to help her daughter, Mae.
Then you have Holden and Gavin. Even before they knew what type of love they were looking for, they had found it in each other. But, young love is confusing and not always easy. I enjoyed how they had their own relationship, their own lives and supported each other wholeheartedly.
The chemistry between all three of them is steamy and I liked how realistic their relationship seemed. The mystery was not so much a mystery. I wish we would have heard more about the co-worker that Holden had and about Mae and the relationship between her and Stella, Holden and Gavin, but I understand that this was a story about the three of them.
I enjoyed that you also got to see the relationship between Holden and Gavin, separate from their relationship between them and Stella. It was nice that their relationship did not get lost in the shuffle.
Overall, like I said in the beginning, I enjoyed this story. It just needs a little more editing and it will be perfect.
4 stars
I was given this book for an honest review by Inked Rainbow Reads.
Let me start out by saying that I enjoyed the story so much, that I bumped the star rating up by 1. However, this book needs editing. There are so many incorrect words and misspellings, I actually thought to myself whether or not this had been edited at all. I found it distracting.
As for the actual content, it was a great, sweet story. I liked the fact that the story did not really dwell on the past, it was more about the right here and now. I really liked Stella's character and how she was able to put her own issues aside to help her daughter, Mae.
Then you have Holden and Gavin. Even before they knew what type of love they were looking for, they had found it in each other. But, young love is confusing and not always easy. I enjoyed how they had their own relationship, their own lives and supported each other wholeheartedly.
The chemistry between all three of them is steamy and I liked how realistic their relationship seemed. The mystery was not so much a mystery. I wish we would have heard more about the co-worker that Holden had and about Mae and the relationship between her and Stella, Holden and Gavin, but I understand that this was a story about the three of them.
I enjoyed that you also got to see the relationship between Holden and Gavin, separate from their relationship between them and Stella. It was nice that their relationship did not get lost in the shuffle.
Overall, like I said in the beginning, I enjoyed this story. It just needs a little more editing and it will be perfect.
August 11, 2015
Holy hotness! This book has got some steamy scenes in it for sure. I would love to be Stella. This is the first book I've ready by Amanda Young and I will reading more from her in the future for sure.
I loved the relationship that Gavin and Holden have and how they are comfortable in it and don't let others bring them down about something that isn't accepted by a lot. Once Stella gets involved again, its like they were never apart.
With that said there is some tension at first since she fled and kept the major secret of having daughter by one of them and never telling them. All of a sudden they find out when she just shows up wanting to find out which one is the dad. Stella comes back to take the test because although she put Mae up for adoption she has stayed in contact and will do anything for her daughter. She has a pretty good idea who the father is but she does not want to go there and confront them. When she left she was devastated by the betrayal they did to her. They feel like she did the same to them and have some issues to work out. She must confess to them why she left them and they have some explaining to do themselves.
Which one is the father? Will they be able to move on from the past? How will one of them react when they find out they aren't the father? What does the future hold for the 3 of them? Is there room in Gavin and Holden's relationship for Stella anymore? I loved how this book played out. I don't typically read M/M/F books and will be checking out more from now on. I can say this for sure that you definitely won't be disappointed in this book.
I received an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
I loved the relationship that Gavin and Holden have and how they are comfortable in it and don't let others bring them down about something that isn't accepted by a lot. Once Stella gets involved again, its like they were never apart.
With that said there is some tension at first since she fled and kept the major secret of having daughter by one of them and never telling them. All of a sudden they find out when she just shows up wanting to find out which one is the dad. Stella comes back to take the test because although she put Mae up for adoption she has stayed in contact and will do anything for her daughter. She has a pretty good idea who the father is but she does not want to go there and confront them. When she left she was devastated by the betrayal they did to her. They feel like she did the same to them and have some issues to work out. She must confess to them why she left them and they have some explaining to do themselves.
Which one is the father? Will they be able to move on from the past? How will one of them react when they find out they aren't the father? What does the future hold for the 3 of them? Is there room in Gavin and Holden's relationship for Stella anymore? I loved how this book played out. I don't typically read M/M/F books and will be checking out more from now on. I can say this for sure that you definitely won't be disappointed in this book.
I received an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
December 9, 2016
Without a doubt, one of the most delightful romance novels I have read in quite a while.
It earns 5 stars and would get more if possible because:
1. The characters are multi-faceted. The three primary "actors" in our tale have motivations, desires, vices, interests, and evolve as the narrative progresses.
2. The plot is not cookie-cutter. It opens with a challenging situation, complications arise, and the denouement, while perhaps a little on-the-nose makes for a HEA that was rather pleasing.
3. The conflict and complications are largely realistic.
4. The eroticism (both homo-erotic and hetero-erotic) was handled in a very smooth manner. Put another way, these characters do not simply jump into bed out of nowhere. If this were a "smut" story, that would not matter, but this is a romance and.....damn it.....people need a reason to get naked.
5. The secondary characters, people we see in passing or who only affect the story in an ancillary way, still retain a certain depth which many writers would not provide.
Do not read this for "one-handed fiction" because it will not satisfy. But do read this for a genuinely believable and tasteful menage romance.
It earns 5 stars and would get more if possible because:
1. The characters are multi-faceted. The three primary "actors" in our tale have motivations, desires, vices, interests, and evolve as the narrative progresses.
2. The plot is not cookie-cutter. It opens with a challenging situation, complications arise, and the denouement, while perhaps a little on-the-nose makes for a HEA that was rather pleasing.
3. The conflict and complications are largely realistic.
4. The eroticism (both homo-erotic and hetero-erotic) was handled in a very smooth manner. Put another way, these characters do not simply jump into bed out of nowhere. If this were a "smut" story, that would not matter, but this is a romance and.....damn it.....people need a reason to get naked.
5. The secondary characters, people we see in passing or who only affect the story in an ancillary way, still retain a certain depth which many writers would not provide.
Do not read this for "one-handed fiction" because it will not satisfy. But do read this for a genuinely believable and tasteful menage romance.
September 13, 2015
ThreeStar
I felt like I was missing something with this book. It had a neat little 2nd chances spin to it though.
There was an interesting dynamic between the three of the main characters. The men lived as a married gay couple, but once Stella comes back, they are only with her, which I didn't care for. It was never the two men together and her with them. They always were there to please her, which wouldn't work long term, not in most relationships anyway.
I have to say the plot was predictable and I saw every 'surprise' coming, however, I did like the author's style. It is what kept me reading through quite a few silly (and awkward) statements that weren't meant to be funny.
I'd likely try another book from this author in the hopes that it was just this book that didn't quite work for me because the writing style was so good.
I received a free copy of this book to read and review for Inked Rainbow Reads.
I felt like I was missing something with this book. It had a neat little 2nd chances spin to it though.
There was an interesting dynamic between the three of the main characters. The men lived as a married gay couple, but once Stella comes back, they are only with her, which I didn't care for. It was never the two men together and her with them. They always were there to please her, which wouldn't work long term, not in most relationships anyway.
I have to say the plot was predictable and I saw every 'surprise' coming, however, I did like the author's style. It is what kept me reading through quite a few silly (and awkward) statements that weren't meant to be funny.
I'd likely try another book from this author in the hopes that it was just this book that didn't quite work for me because the writing style was so good.
I received a free copy of this book to read and review for Inked Rainbow Reads.
August 10, 2015
I really do enjoy a good second chance love story and Circling Back is definitely a good one. Stella leaves town with a broken heart and a baby on the way. The two guys that she grew up being best friends with and became even more than that had kept a secret from her. She leaves without a word and gives up her baby for adoption. I loved that it was an open adoption and she was able to have a relationship with her child. I also wasn't thrilled with the fact that she denied that same option to the father. When her daughter forces her hand years later, she comes home to face the men she left behind. To say they are shocked is mild which is totally understandable. This also makes the threesome clear the air on what happened years ago and realize that there are still feelings shared between them. I really enjoyed their story.
I give Circling Back 4 hearts!
I give Circling Back 4 hearts!
December 15, 2015
It was a'ight... I probably won't remember it eventually. It was a sweet second chance story about a girl who had been sleeping with her two best friends (separately, not together) in high school, and when she found out she was pregnant, she also found out they were closer than she had ever imagined. So she took off, had the baby and put it up for open adoption. Twenty years later, her daughter wants to know who her father is, so she has to re-open that relationship. The two guys are a couple now, and they've been looking for a third, but nobody ever fit. The girl is still attracted to them and vice versa, so she throws caution to the wind and has a menage with them. And the relationship grows. And there's a suspense element to it. It was entertaining enough, but I found myself skimming the sex scenes. :-/
February 9, 2017
Lacking
First, the characters, Stella, Holden and Gavin, are supposed to be in their late thirties, but they act and talk as if they were still teenagers. Then the reason for their original split and consequent reunion is completely rushed and glossed over. Instead, the author attempts to make a statement about homophobia and domestic violence but lacks the talent and finesse to pull it off. To me, the entire story is one big distasteful let down. Avoid this book and author as I will be doing in the future.
First, the characters, Stella, Holden and Gavin, are supposed to be in their late thirties, but they act and talk as if they were still teenagers. Then the reason for their original split and consequent reunion is completely rushed and glossed over. Instead, the author attempts to make a statement about homophobia and domestic violence but lacks the talent and finesse to pull it off. To me, the entire story is one big distasteful let down. Avoid this book and author as I will be doing in the future.
January 9, 2016
I enjoyed reading Circling Back. It was different from the ménage books I read. We are introduced to Stella, Gavin, and Holden. I've got to be honest. This book was lacking something overall. I want to say the realness of the characters. I just wasn't blown away after reading this book. It's a sweet, somewhat short read. Not a recommended read though.
November 17, 2015
Stella gets her second chance at love
Cute quick read , definitely a second chance at love. I did feel a like the relationship was very rushed at the beginning between the 3 of them. Overall a good read with a very hot in love trio. I really would love to read more of their story
Cute quick read , definitely a second chance at love. I did feel a like the relationship was very rushed at the beginning between the 3 of them. Overall a good read with a very hot in love trio. I really would love to read more of their story
November 16, 2017
A MMF novel, read as ebook, nice light reading for flights. Character development was decent, story line was good but predictable. Descriptions were spot on, but the sex scenes were somewhat repetitive.
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