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Mayson Grayne has witnessed all of her friends get their Happily Ever Afters, but Mayson doesn't believe in her own HEA. The one man she ever loved deserted her more than thirteen years ago after her best friend's tragic death. The only thing Mayson believes in is making it through each day, even though her past as an addict and her broken memories hang over her in a dark cloud.

When Grant Alexander, Mayson's ex, suddenly reappears, her carefully regimented life is disrupted. Old feelings are dredged up, as well as some distorted memories. Aware of her own instability, Mayson struggles with her past, her hot and cold feelings for Grant, and her drug addiction.

Most of Mayson's family and friends believe she is okay, but she doesn't feel okay. As some of her shadowed memories become more clear, one of them with the potential to completely knock her off of her axis, Mayson begins to understand that the truth is not always as she remembers it.

Unknown Binding

First published January 9, 2016

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558 people want to read

About the author

L.D. Davis

17 books1,519 followers
L.D. Davis is a New York Times Bestselling author residing on the east coast of the United States with her family, two cats, and fish. She enjoys wine, audio books, bursting into song like a Disney character, and lounging on the beach.

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Displaying 1 - 30 of 59 reviews
Profile Image for FMABookReviews.
637 reviews400 followers
January 14, 2016
TR teaser

3.5 Stars
Mayson’s character, (Emmy’s sassy cousin) had been a little elusive throughout all of the AOP series. We knew enough about her to know she was funny, sarcastic and in trouble - she is a drug addict, but that was about it. This is Mayson’s story, her backstory, present and future.
❝I’ve only won a few battles. I’m still fighting the war.❞

On her way to work, Mayson hears her name being called among a crowd of people. The last person she expects to find is her childhood friend, and former lover, Grant Alexander. He is back in town and wants Mayson back in his life. Mayson holds a great deal of anger toward him for leaving her all those years ago, as well, she has deep seated grief and guilt over the passing of her childhood friend. Add to all of that, being a former addict, she doesn’t feel worthy of love. The end of the road to each other seems too long and bumpy to reach.

Grant Alexander was a fantastic character. I craved his POV. His love and patience for Mayson was unwavering.
❝I am hungry for you, craving you like a man who has been starving for thirteen years, and you are the only one who can satiate my appetite.❞

Mayson doesn’t remember a lot of her past life. She was high most of the time, and what she does remember isn’t always the truth. She learns that things aren’t always what they seem, and giving people a chance is worth it.

It pains me to write anything other than a glowing review for an LD Davis book. Seriously, she is a go to author for me. I am captivated by her writing. I dubbed her the “Queen of Angst”, because she has the uncanny ability to play with my emotions in a way no one else can. Her dialogue is witty, mixed with a little humor and seriousness. I am always drawn into her stories and held prisoner by her characters. She crafts her character’s beautifully, you feel their emotions. You forget you are reading about them and you experience their pain, happiness, sadness and love. But not with Things Remembered. While I did like it, I didn’t love it. For me, it was missing her trademark angst. I found it lacking dialogue… a good part of the book read more like women's fiction, than a romance novel. This caused the book to drag for me. I did still experience "feels". There were parts that were still captivating, the beginning and about the last 25% were my favorite. I enjoyed the relationship which formed between Natalie, Alex and Mayson. Their interactions touched my heart. As well, once Mayson realized she was important and began fighting for what she believed, I couldn't help but root for her.

Things Remembered is a story of forgiveness and redemption. About learning to trust not only others, but yourself, too.

‘Things Remembered’ is a companion novel to the ‘Accidentally on Purpose’ series and while it can be read alone, if you have not read that series or the spin-off’s, I think you would get more understanding and appreciation of this book and other characters by reading them first.

ARC graciously provided in exchange for honest review!

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Profile Image for Michelle.
944 reviews218 followers
January 14, 2016
4.5 Stars
Wow! I loved this book. It was really good. I also loved that we got more of the gang throughout the book and even a few chapters with their POVs at the end. I even loved asshole Kyle more than I did after reading his story. He's come a long way!

Mayson is an angry woman. She doesn't like anyone except for her family and I mostly felt she just tolerated them. She hates kids unless they are her nieces and nephews. She has no filter and is quick to tell you to fuck off. I loved her!!!

After being clean for 11 years she relapses and starts using again. She quickly gets herself back in rehab (because of her job at Sterling Corp) and starts going to meetings. Kyle Sterling joins her at every meeting. Kyle is still his asshole self just like Mayson but you can tell that he's worried about his and his wife's friend.

Mayson walks to work every day and stops and gets coffee. She's always early to work because she doesn't want to run into any of her co-workers. One morning at the coffee shop she sees the man that she used to love years ago when she was a junkie. The man that left her after his sister (her Best friend) died of an overdose. Mayson almost died that night too. He told her he had to leave because he refuses to watch one more person die because of drugs. Mayson was not prepared to see Grant!

“You’ve totally disrupted my entire schedule over the past few days. I would like to get inside my office, avoid the clusterfuck of mommies that want to show me pictures and videos of their snot-nosed children, and enjoy my croissant and hot coffee. So, can you please just tell me why you shadowed me for three weeks like a fruitcake before revealing yourself so dramatically?”~Mayson

Grant was very sexy and sweet. I loved him so much! The way he was with his kids. The way he was with Mayson had me melting. The man was hot!!

“This is how I see you, Mayson. You are majestic and perfect. Authentic and strong. I know your past is dark and frightening, but you are beautiful and brave. I see you and see the prettiest wings…” His lips touched my neck. “Soft. Bright. Brilliant, and full of life.”~Grant (when they were younger)

Grant pushed his way into Maysons life again. You could tell that these two loved each other still after not seeing one another for 13 years. I loved that Mayson even started loving Grants kids. They were great kids.

It had become abundantly clear that Grant and his little minions filled the emptiness inside me. Somehow, the small family of three had adhered itself to my heart and soul.~Mayson

Maysons struggle was real. After Grant left her years ago she didn't have anyone. Her family pushed her away. She only had her junkie friends. She didn't have any reason to try to get clean and she hit rock bottom. It took something very bad to happen to her to get her to wake up and get clean. But even though her time when she was high is blurry certain things trigger her memory. Nightmares are still thick. Wanting to use drugs is still there.

I loved how Grant took things slow with her. Well....sort of slow. lol He wanted her in his house and his his bed sleeping. lol I loved that he didn't care about her past he still loved her and wanted her in his and his children's life. He made Mayson smile and laugh. I'm sure she hadn't smiled or laughed in years. He was really good for Mayson.

“What are you drawing?” I asked, my voice soft and sleepy. “Butterfly wings,” he said, smiling. “What color are my wings?” He watched his fingers sweep over my back. “It changes. Right now they’re blue, which means you’re calm and tranquil. A little while ago, they were blazing red with energy and passion. I like red. I like red almost as much, if not the same as yellow.” I raised an eyebrow. “What does yellow symbolize?” “Hope.” He met my eyes. “Happiness. Joy.” His fingers eased down my spine, making me shiver. “I love your pretty wings, even when they are black and seem to be too heavy for you to carry.”~Grant

All the feels came out during this read. I'm very happy that Mayson got her HEA!

I'm also so happy I was on GRs and seen this. I didn't even know about it. I loved it! I'm pretty sure if you loved The Accidentally On Purpose series then you will love this one. Hope you read it and enjoy it as much as I did!
Awesome job LD! Loved this series!
Profile Image for Ang C.
757 reviews115 followers
March 3, 2016
2.5 stars

I've been a fan of this series, walking away loving Luke (my favorite of the series), Kyle and Emmet's stories. I love the way Davis weaves an extreme amount of angst and emotion in all her reads. She's a great story teller. However, I had great difficulty with this novel. Honestly, I wanted to put it down and just walk away... several times. But I had to see it through. I had to see if the story would turn around and work for me. Sadly, it did not - and the sole reason falls on the shoulders of the MC, Mayson.

Mayson is a recovering heroine addict that had my sympathies for the pretty messed up things happen to her in the past, while strung out. Such great tragedies. But that's where my compassion and patience with her character end.

In general, she had absolutely no redeeming or likable qualities. No substance to her character that was lovable. And I desperately tried to justify and rationalize Grant's adoration of Mayson, his butterfly. I could not find one single thing. She was cruel, angry, bitter, selfish and insensitive. I get a tough chick. I get a woman so hurt that she has no choice but to construct walls to protect her heart. With that, there should be a time where the walls begin to crack and crumble, allowing the character to transform as love heals within the story line. That never happened here. Mayson's character showed no growth. Consistent bitterness and laying blame for her actions on other people was her MO. Instead of feeling sympathy for her loneliness and her broken relationships with family and friends...I resented how ungrateful she was towards Grant and her family. Mayson laid blame for all her mishaps at everyone's feet and takes no responsibility, what so ever, for the dysfunctional relationships she has with the important people in her life. No apologies for the cold and often cruel way she treated them. I get that she had a shitty life, but her bad attitude and the way she regarded people, was too over the top for me.

What I did like was seeing some old friends from prior installments pop into the story line. Kyle is heavily involved in her life, so we see his snarky character often. Luke, Emmet and Leo pop in with their ladies as well. I liked getting to know Grant, a sweet and sexy guy with two adorable kids, Alex and Nat. It's unfortunate that these highlights were not strong enough to overcome the shadow of Mayson's character.
Profile Image for ~♡AB♡~.
986 reviews682 followers
January 13, 2016
★★★ 3 Stars ★★★

Things Remembered is the last book in the Accidentally on Purpose series, and follows Mayson Grayne, cousin to Emmy and Tabitha. This is a companion novel however, so can be read as a standalone.

Mayson is a recovering heroine addict who struggles day to day not only with her addiction, but with her insecurities as a whole. She doesn't feel worthy of love or anything good.

"I don't have family. I don't have anyone. The only person I have is myself."

When she bumps into her first love, Grant Alexander who she hasn't' seen for 20 years, her life is turned upside down as his persistence to have her back in his life wears her down and she is no longer in control of her emotions.

I had mixed feelings reading this, I wasn't a huge fan of Mayson, I found her to be rude and unlike-able for the most part and whilst I understand all of her reasons for being guarded and closed off, I never really felt like I was gunning for her. Grant though, he was a total winner in my eyes, he was perfect.

"I have such ugly scars," I whispered, resting my hand on his.
"Good. That means that you won't forget your past and you won't forget where you came from."

Whilst it wasn't my favourite book in the set, it was still an emotional and relatively gripping read, I enjoyed seeing Mayson's development from cold to warm, especially the pivotal moment when she realised her true feelings for Grant and her sense of loneliness turning to a sense of belonging.

Overall, I liked it and look forward to seeing what LD Davis can bring us for the future outside of these characters.

Things Remembered is a standalone companion novel, told in the heroine's POV

ARC gratefully received from the author in exchange for an honest review

Profile Image for Jacqueline.
1,717 reviews154 followers
January 15, 2016
I loved the Accidentally on Purpose trilogy when I read it a couple of years ago, so when this new companion novel popped up I was straight in there.

I'd kind of forgotten how arse-clenchingly angsty this author's writing can be; reading with a sensation of dread is not that comfortable for me and I usually ditch and run, but I was so invested in Mayson, I couldn't look away.

We already know that Mayson struggles with her addiction and has a difficult relationship with her mum and with others. She's not always an easy person to understand, let alone like, but she's brutally honest. I cannot lie, I struggled with the flashback scenes, chronicling her descent into dependence aged just 14. It was heartbreaking, unflinchingly so, but balanced by warmer present day scenes, it was actually a fairly uplifting read in spite of some of that grim subject matter.

Grant was pretty damn perfect - gradually working towards bringing Mayson back to life, saying just the right thing at the right time, but being as hawt as hell too, with the whispered words on skin and soulful eyes. And yeah, ok, he's also generously blessed in the trouser snake department. Damn.

We even got more Kyle and he's as obnoxious as ever; I still love him.

Recommended series.

Profile Image for Bev .
2,232 reviews481 followers
March 14, 2016
5+++ pure book nirvana stars. Man I loved this book.

L.D. Davis did it yet again, grabbed me, hooked me and did not let me go from word one. I needed a book that would drag the feels out of me and this one did it in spades. Ms Davis, you tried so damn hard to make me dislike Mayson and that SO didn't happen ;). I absolutely LOVED this book, adored the characters, swooned over Grant - his care, understanding, patience, tolerance, acceptance, nurturing - I could go on and on and on. He is pure gorgeous perfection, just what an alpha Hero (with a capital H!) should be. My buddy Page said it in her review that Grant is one of the most perfect heroes she's ever read, damn straight girl!

Best bits - so many! But catching up with old friends from the previous books in the series was fantastic, seeing them years later still living the dream. Seeing how they are still so totally in love and in like with each other, listening and still getting each other, not taking each other for granted. LOVED this. And I can't forget my boy Kyle - I got loads of him in this book and he was beyond amazing. Shit I'm totally fangirling and gushing lol. That man just does it for me, you know? So much so I was sat there hugging my Kindle at times .... sigh.

Mayson really had to work to get her happy, she fought, she crawled and she clawed till she got there. She's strong and tenacious with a soft marshmallow centre that she hides so well, yet Grant "saw" her. That man gave me chills he was just so amazing. Ms. Davis doesn't pull any punches, it is what it is- raw, gritty with warts and all and I freaking loved it.

I really don't think the author could have brought one of my all time favourite series to a better end than she did with this book. Pure bloody genius!

Profile Image for Suzanne.
1,448 reviews24 followers
April 18, 2025
4.5 Stars
A dark, moving story of a young woman whose memories of the past and a drug addiction had taken her so far within herself it became toxic. A lot of time is spent working out why she is in the head space she is in and the struggle she faces to accept support to rise above it all.

Uneasy and dogged with the reoccurring battle to fight her heroin addiction, Mayson is forced into rehabilitation. Learning to put her past behaviour and negative personal feelings aside seem impossible even with the help of the friends she entrusts with the truth. The truth as Mayson knows it.

The power of words never ceases to amaze me and the writing evoked emotions that were palpable. Experiencing the weight of the dark cloud that hovered over the story as Mayson clenched and came close to letting go of her ability to not succumb to the lure of her addiction was believable. As dark as Mayson’s journey was Grant provided a realistic offer of hope and lit up the sombre mood in a slow, realistic manner. For a character, I was hesitant to trust initially I gradually warmed to him and appreciated his determination and ability to see beyond the walls Mayson erected.

I had no problem understanding and keeping up with the characters and storyline despite not having read all the Accidentally on Purpose Series. Things Remembered could easily be read as a standalone book.

It’s important to mention the trigger in this story, noting it underpins most of the battles Mayson faces. For a dark story, the darkness lifts subtly with no lingering gloom. I didn’t forget the dark elements of the story and felt uplifted how people used knowledge and experience to empower them. But be warned the content of the story and the journey to empowerment is not for the faint of heart.

Profile Image for Jena .
2,313 reviews2 followers
avoid
July 30, 2023
Self note pet peeves
- single dad H. H married and had 2 kids after being with the h.
- h was gang raped, became a drug addict while H was out making a family.
Profile Image for Liah B.
434 reviews3 followers
January 12, 2016
Ld. Davis has done it again! Hands down I think this was the best in the series. No spoilers given on this one. Just read it and enjoy all the drama.
Profile Image for MJLovestoRead.
2,272 reviews58 followers
January 11, 2016
This book. This entire series has been some of THE best writing I've ever read. With Things Remembered, LD Davis, gives us a finale that I won't soon forget. In fact, it makes me want to start all over and meet the entire crew of characters I don't want to ever leave!

This is Mayson's story. Emmy's smart-mouthed cousin who has battled her inner demons from a very early age. With a strong-willed mother determined to make her the perfect ballerina among other things, Mayson rebels and begins her long journey into the dark recesses of drugs and despair.

However, this book isn't one of doom and gloom or at least not all of it. Instead I like to think it's one of hope. Mayson truly is that beautiful butterfly, emerging from an ugly cocoon determined to fly high and be the best she can be, with Grant, the man she was destined to love by her side.

Mayson and Grant's love made me swoon. These two know how to love fiercely. Their deep affection and ultimate respect for one another was a joy to witness. The way Mayson stands up to her man, learns to love not only herself but him on such an intense level was overwhelming at times. Grant knew what he wanted and would stop at nothing to get it. To get his girl back, to experience her confessions, not wanting to let go no matter what she threw at him. A relationship that was a force of nature and no one and nothing would be in their path.

This book gives us a glimpse, happily,into the lives of the other Accidentily on Purpose couples we have loved from the very start. They are all there when Mayson retells the worst that life gave her and never let her fall again. I loved how loyal and loving this crew is. Even with all their teasing, their playful banter, beneath it all is a support system as solid as a rock.

And that man of mine, Kyle Sterling. He proves to be the surprise highlight of this book. He has come full circle and is Mayson's staunchest supporter. How I loved to watch him not only be her friend but her confidante. He listened without judgement and let her have it when necessary. He never gave up on Mayson, and instinctively knew when she needed him most. These two were like seasoned warriors and their battles could at one minute make you laugh and another make you cringe. A true bright spot whenever he filled a page or two.

If you are looking for the sort of book that captures your soul, that makes you honestly and completely feel every word that you read, then Things Remember is for you. LD Davis is the author for you and I strongly suggest you start at the beginning with Accidentally on Purpose and discover some of the most well-written characters you will ever encounter. This is a promise.

A huge 5+++ stars and a journey that warmed my heart.
139 reviews8 followers
May 30, 2020
This has to be my favourite book out of the whole series.


Big tough Mayson, I now understand you. What you've gone through to who you are now Wow!
Drug addiction is such a hard thing to live with because it can take one thing to make you slip up. I loved reading about Kyle and Lily as well.

Emmy and Luke pissed me off in this book. They were absolutely selfish. And then Emmett's pov pretty much forgot about his own child until the other child said something. That pissed me off.
But watching Mayson turn into a great stepmom, sister and wife well that was a real treat

But wow what a great book all together

Grant Alexander is an amazing man. He and his kids were amazing. I'm so glad Mayson got her happily ever after because she deserved it
Profile Image for Bozica.
707 reviews22 followers
January 15, 2016
Buddy Read with my fellow Angst Loving Bookworm - Nicole with whom I've read this entire brilliant 6 book series.

I am sad that this is the final book in the series but I loved the experience and the journey LD Davis took us through in each book. These wonderful characters will not be forgotten that's for certain.

This is Mayson's story and I can say here that she is all sorts of broken. A more broken heroine you will be hard pressed to find.

Mayson is Emmy's cousin and over the course of the series we do see glimpses of her. We know she is fiery, sarcastic, private and a former drug addict. She is definitely not a person you could warm to instantly because of the walls she has built around herself but I believe she is certainly worth the effort.

Her story is very sad, not only for what she lived through but also in the way she viewed herself and believed others viewed her. This flawed self perception made her do things that I think otherwise she would not have done. There were scenes with her cousins, Grant and her mum that just tore at me. I found them difficult and it left me very very sad.

Her best friend (ironically and hands down my absolute favorite character in this series) is Kyle Sterling. He features quite a lot in this book and that me all sorts of giddy and also confirmed to me what I have know all along - that he is a good guy. Their banter was hilarious and I actually giggled out loud on a couple of occasions, but their friendship and how much they supported each other was undoubted.

Grant Alexander is a man that we weren't made aware from the previous books but wow wow wow. He was perfect for Mayson and he was completely unwavering in his commitment and love for Mayson despite all her crazy. He helped her see what she wasn't able to for so many years and when the break through was made we see the true Mayson and like I said she is worth knowing and worthy of love.

We are reunited with the entire gang ( yes even Sam - Em's mum - I love her) in this book and the way it was delivered was perfect and I will miss them.

Thank you LD Davis on another wonderful and heartfelt journey this time with Mayson and Grant and I look forward to whatever you release next.



Profile Image for Laverne Brewster.
1,378 reviews18 followers
December 20, 2017
4.00 stars. I love this series and kudos to the author for featuring ethnically diverse characters. This is the third and final book of the Accidentally on Purpose Companion Novels. Kate Udall narrates this book and the author tells the story of Mayson Grayne and her dissension into drug abuse and her ascension from drug abuse and her reunion with the love of her life, Grant Alexander. Throughout the 5 prior books, there are snippets of Mayson; she and her first cousins Emmy and Tack are drinking and using drugs; the cousins get sober but Mayson continues abusing. This book tells Mayson's emotionally powerful and compelling journey: a child of loving dysfunctional parents: her father is a work-a-holic and her stoic unaffectant mother forces her into activities that she hates, an adolescent Mayson becames rebellious and self-destructive. At age 12, Mayson develops a crush on Grant who is 17 and the brother of her bestfriend. When she is 18 and he is 23, they fall in love; but he leaves when his sister overdoses and dies but Mayson continues to use and becomes a victim of gang rape. Thirteen years later, Grant returns to town as a business owner and a widower with 2 children, He and Mayson rekindle their romance, she confronts her mother and cousins about their mistreatment of her and sh establishes an organization to aide drug addicts and abused women. This book also updates the status of featured couples: Emma and Luke ponder having a 4th child, Emmett and Donya ponder relocating from Chicago to New York, Leo and Tabitha contend with a 19 year old's crush on Leo and Mayson and Grant marry. The order of my favorite couples are as follows: Emmet and Donya in TETHERED, Leo and Tabitha in GIRL CODE, Grant and Mayson in THINGS REMEMBERED, Emma and Luke is a settle for. I'd rather have had a story where Emma and Kyle work things out and marry. Can't have it all-I guess.
92 reviews
January 14, 2016
WOW.. just wow... I have so many feelings that it would be impossible to write them all down. The best book I have read in a while! (and I have read MANY greats).
Mayson is a recovering heroin addict with a lot of baggage and guilt. Grant Alexander is the man who loves her any ways, and THROUGH it all.
You will laugh, you will cry, you will hug it to your chest.
The final installment to the Accidentally on Purpose series, I cannot wait to see what our LD comes out with next <3
Simply beautiful.

"He said that Mayson was a butterfly. He said that even though drugs were doing ugly things to her, that she was beautiful and didn't know it yet. He said that she was in her ugly caterpillar stage, but when she was ready, she would begin to transition and emerge from her chrysalis a beautiful and brilliant butterfly"....
Profile Image for Genevieve Woods.
Author 12 books54 followers
January 16, 2016
Aweaom LD Davis

Amazing story for Mayson who has been a side character in all the AOP books. Come to find out, that was not lost on her. Mayson has been through some things, a lot of it was self-inflicted but all the same she has survived.
Now if you can't stand Kyle this book will bring the opportunity to your front door. (Since its fiction I Will let it keep ringing my doorbell..lol.)
Grant Alexander was a chocolate surprise but everything a woman could want. It is so many wonderful things I could say but you just have to read it for yourself.
If you have being missing Tabitha and Leo, Emmy and Luke, or Donya and Emmet, this book is for you.


Profile Image for Ermani.
693 reviews20 followers
April 15, 2016
I loved this book, how these characters were portrayed and their story. I had an issue with a few chapters about the other couples. While I love to catch up with them, the placement really disrupted the flow at the end for me. The scenes with Kyle were some of my favorites. When there is a character I literally can't stand, and over the course of the series you make me love him, you've done a seriously good job.

I love this whole series. So many flawed characters that eventually rally and get to a hea that you truly want for them in the end.
Profile Image for Naia.
69 reviews35 followers
January 12, 2016
I am once again blown away by L.D. Davis. How she brings her characters to life is truly gut-wrenching beautiful. I laughed, cried, cringe, & bulldozed my way through this book. I love everything about it. The heroine, the hero, the secondary characters, the storyline, the pace, the dog, & the kids. I also appreciate how the book came full circle at the end.
Profile Image for Lindsay C.
367 reviews15 followers
January 11, 2016
4.5 stars. Not a mass angst as her previous books in the series. I loved all the characters in the series and Kyle is still my favorite. They all got their shit together and love how real and raw it all felt.
Profile Image for Donna.
206 reviews
January 10, 2016
I can't believe the series is over. Will be one of my favorites
Profile Image for Wendy Moore.
1,332 reviews11 followers
May 20, 2016
L.D Davis is a great story teller...absolutely love this series!!
781 reviews7 followers
November 3, 2018
Unwanted Memories...

I have never read a novel by L.D. Davis that didn't deserve five stars, and "Things Remembered" is no exception. The story of the tortured and traumatized Mayson Grayne and her continued struggle to remain free of past demons in order to carve a future with former lover Grant. AWESOME story!!!
Profile Image for Jahlen.
108 reviews
July 5, 2024
Good read for family romance with the cousins... I am still hoping for a second generation book series for their children... 🥹
Profile Image for Three Chicks.
2,632 reviews419 followers
January 21, 2016
4.5 Stars
Review by Jen Skewes

The Accidentally on Purpose series has always been one of my favorite series. So while I absolutely loved this book I am sad to have to say goodbye to these characters that I fell in love with. Things Remembered is a beautiful and emotional story that just grabs you from the very beginning, not wanting to let go even at the very end. This is also a story of second chances which I love.

Mayson’s past is one that continues to haunt her no matter how hard she tries to move on. For her she is just living day to day trying to get past it all. She is a recovering drug addict who is still trying to piece together the lost memories from that dark time in her life. She has a mother who always pushed her to be the best and whom Mayson never really got along with. She also blames herself for certain tragic moments in her life. There is one person from her past who she loved and that was her best friend's brother, Grant. Together they had an amazing connection and loved each other. But when her friend died, Grant had to walk away. He couldn't stand by and watch Mayson continue to harm herself and most of all he couldn't lose someone else that he loved.

It’s been thirteen years since they have seen each other. But when they do the feelings that Grant had for Mayson is still there. Mayson on the other hand is a very bitter, and angry women with no filter. She says what she feels and does not hold back at all. Grant will do everything in his power to prove to Mayson how good they are together, how much he still loves her and needs her. But most of all he wants to prove to her that she is the beautiful butterfly that he saw her as many years ago. That she has the strength to fly high and be everything that she truly wants to be. And no matter how many times Mayson pushes him away or runs, and believe me she does, he will catch her. He is not giving up on their love no matter how hard she tries.

Grant was just pure perfection in every way. He has quickly become my favorite male character of Ms. Davis’. He sees something in Mayson that she herself cannot see. He sees her beauty, her strength and her love. He knows deep down that she has the ability to love and open up her heart again, he just needs to show her how. I cannot even express how much I loved this man. From the moment I met him I fell for him. The way he spoke to her, loved her and protected her just made me swoon. He truly loved this woman and you could see just how much.

Mayson is a bit of a tough woman which considering all that he has gone through it is understandable. She has been through hell and back. She doesn’t think she is good enough for Grant. He deserves better than her and all of her baggage. But what Mayson soon finds out with the help of Grant by her side, is that not everything is how she remembers it to be. And maybe once the truth comes out she sees exactly what it is that Grant sees.

I loved Grant and as tough and frustrating as she was I did love Mayson. But what I loved the most is the two of them together. Their love and their connection was just so beautiful and so intense that I loved watching their story unfold. Mayson grew so much from the person that we met in the beginning. I loved watching her be able to open up her heart and soul again to the only man that she has ever loved. But it wasn’t just about Grant, she became the woman that she truly was, the woman that Grant saw and somehow she managed to open up her heart to his two children as well. It was such a joy to watch and to see this broken girl finally get the happiness she deserved.

I have been a fan of LD Davi’s since first reading AOP. She put me through the wringer with that book so much, that any time I started a new book of hers I proceeded with caution, because you never know what you will get with her. She is the queen of angst. So of course throughout this entire book I waited for it. But Things Remembered is not like her other books. It doesn’t have that stomach dropping angst and honestly it did not need it. I think Mayson and Grant had enough drama that it was not needed at all. We saw the struggles that they both went through as a couple but we also got to experience Mayson’s past. We were there when she tried to figure it all out and fight her demons. And surpisingly we also got to see her friendship, if that’s what you can call it with Kyle Sterling. Yes you read that correctly. Aside from Mayson and Grant I think this is one of the highlights of this book for me. They have a love/hate relationship but you see how these two came together as friends and how in his own way Kyle cares.

Things Remembered was an amazing story of love, second chances, hope and finding yourself. I loved how in the end this series came full circle. The couples from the other books that we all love are very much apart of Mayson and Grant’s story. I loved ever minute of this book. Another fantastic job!
Profile Image for Lora.
1,330 reviews10 followers
January 28, 2016
Some spoilers ahead...
I always shy away from reading anymore LD Davis books because all her books slay me...I mean...they make me feel so much that sometimes I cant stomach reading them. But once I finish the book, I am so glad I read it because she truly has a gift with having the most amazing characters and wonderful plots and gut wrenching struggles. The pain you felt for Mayson was so unreal. You could feel her struggle daily throughout this book. I was able to accept and understand all her anger, even though you knew she had no right to be angry, even Mayson said the same thing in the book, she knew she had no right to feel that way...but she did. The author wrote it so beautifully that you really felt she did actually deserve to be angry. I had the same questions she did...Why did her mother treat her second daughter the way she should had treated Mayson? Why did Grant leave and not fight for her when he told her he would never leave her and fight for her? Why did her extended family never support her the way they should and belittle her struggles because they were different than everyone else's? Which brings up something that still irks me. I felt that her cousins never truly asked for forgiveness and I really felt they needed to. They always pushed her problems and life aside just because she didn't have kids. Her problems were never warranted because she wasn't a mom and in her cousins eyes, your life wasn't hard unless you had a toddler to struggle with. I was so glad when Mayson freaked out at them and told them how it was. How when she told her cousins she was struggling, they brushed her off and said you don't know struggle until you have kids. I felt so bad for her. But unless I missed the sentence, none of her cousins apologized. They said they would try harder to be there for her, but I don't think I ever read an I'm sorry. The only person who apologized was her cousins husband.
OK, I swear, I am almost done....lastly....Grant. I liked him...I did. But I felt he came on too strong and too suddenly. He pretty much left her for dead 15yrs ago and never looked back and then all of a sudden he is back, wants her to be with her and raise his kids with her. I just...I wish I knew more about him because I held a lot of resentment towards him and was never able to really let that go. I just couldn't understand why now?...why wait so long before even checking on her? Why marry someone else and have kids when you have only really loved her? I know he loves his kids and would not have wanted a life without them....but I still needed to get into Grants head to see why he truly did the things he did. Oh yea...and how did his ex wife die?...did I miss that?
Anyway....an amazing read...LD Davis is an exceptionally talented writer.
Profile Image for Megan.
146 reviews38 followers
December 20, 2016
I've read a good amount of the Accidentally on Purpose companion novels (Accidentally on Purpose, Tethered, Girl Code and now this). I wanted to read Worthy of Redemption but I really did not like Kyle (although this novel redeemed him a little. Because I never read WOR I never bothered with Worth the Fight, I might read it though.

Since I have read four books by L.D. Davis, all the same series I have come to expect a few things. 1) Good writing 2) Great storyline 3) Drama 4) Retelling other books. This is something that annoys me to no end with her. I read Tethered first then Girl Code. Both of those novels told what happened to Emmy, making me skip over good chunks, Girl Code spoiled a lot that happened with Donya and Emmett. I've read a few companion novels and series, there is no need to spoil other books. We actually don't need to know the full backstory on secondary characters. If a reader wants to read these secondary characters' book, they will. If a reader has already read their book, they might not want a quick reread.

As I've said, I love L.D. Davis and I am currently trying to get through Friction but a busy life might get in the way. A bit of annoyance is she gives her Black characters recessive traits. Donya was brown skin with "chocolate milk eyes", Mayson, although biracial, has gray eyes. I have read too many books by many different raced authors where Black women have gray, green, honey and various colored eyes, hair, or just not typical traits like freckles and red hair. Turn on your TV, we are on TV a little, that's not your typical Black woman. Sure, it can happen, but not everyday. I guess books are not written about gorgeous Black women with standard features.

Now on to the good stuff. Mayson has lived a very messed up existence. Forced to live as her mother's dream as a girl then falling into a whirlwind of illegal drugs as a preteen she never really had a handle on her life. Due to her decisions, Mayson has forgotten a lot of what happened in her past. She usually pieces it together with whatever little memories she has kept. Going through her typical schedule, Mayson's day is erupted by someone from her past. Someone who loved her enough to save her, and stay away from her. Mayson tries to steer clear, but as life would have it, they are pulled together like magnets. Only problem is, he has baggage she has never desired, which can be a huge deal breaker. This person however, helps Mayson paste the missing pieces back together for her.
Profile Image for Twinsie Talk Angie J.
1,809 reviews
January 12, 2016
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Things Remembered by LD Davis
I received this book from the author for an honest review.
I am such a fan of the original trilogy that I jump on any chance to catch a sneak peek at Kyle, Emmy and Luke (MY Baby Daddy in case you wondered). When I saw that this was Mayson’s book I was stoked. She is a frenemy of Kyle and well he is such a DB how can I not want to read. Now I have forgiven Kyle for everything he did to Em and Luke but still…ya know I wouldn’t mind a lick or two more pain and suffering for him. BUT DAMN! He is a good guy. I mean I forgave him and all but he really made me like him….GRRRRR!!!!
Mayson and Grant were in love. They never saw it coming and Mayson tried to hide from it but it happened. Unfortunately her drug addiction and her helping his sister die of heroin caused a major riff in the couple. SOOO Grant says Peace out and leaves our girl. Then out of nowhere he pops back in and wants back in. OH HELLS NO!! Yes I was snapping my fingers right along with Mayson. He abandoned us and the things that happened to her after he left us….unthinkable……
Grant, he is patient and he can read Mayson like a book. He knows when to push and when to pull but he knows what she needs before she even knows it. Mayson keeps insisting that her drug issue past in baggage but Grant has his own baggage in the shape of his son and daughter….well anti-children Mayson sees them as baggage. Grant refuses to give up and even forms an ally with Kyle to get his girl to listen to him.
Mayson’s past becomes a major part of her future. She uses her past trauma to help her heel but to also help others with their trauma. I loved seeing Mayson grow like the butterfly Grant always says she is.
The ending chapters of the book made my heart happy. We got to catch up on alllll the couples rom the spin off books to see how they are doing and how they are coping with everything they go through with Mayson plus past that drama that ensues.
Profile Image for buzy_reading.
2,660 reviews58 followers
January 25, 2016
Mayson is a recovering drug addict. This stories premise follows Mayson's journey from the twelve year old girl who wanted to live her own life. Mayson met Sharice when she was twelve. Sharice's brother Grant was seventeen at the time.
Mayson needs structure, routine, and an organized life to keep her head afloat. With her past behind her and a head clear of drugs Mayson focuses on her career. Mayson attends drug addiction meetings with Kyle. Mayson's character is full of hostility towards her mother.
Grant is Mayson's ex. They have not seen each other in thirteen years. Grant reappears into Mayson's life stirring up cravings she tried to repress.
This companion novel has a slow beginning. It's not what I expected from the Accidentally on Purpose series. I have not found the hook I need to stay glued or connected. The mood is drab. The only connection is the familiar names of past characters from the companion series.
Mayson is closing herself off from her mother and sister. Mayson feels bitter and undeserving of Grant saving her instead of saving Sharice. Mayson continues to harbor doubts about herself as a recovering drug addict and as a person unfit for motherhood. Mayson spent too much time under the fog of drugs that when the family and friends tried to support and comfort her she pushed them away. Mayson's memory was clouded with insecurities and doubts about her worth.
This story does not hold the same angst and excitement as her other stories. The story is stagnant and irritating. The story's premise for forgiveness and redemption are lost in the floods of self pity by Mayson. Mayson's drug addiction and inability to move past, her past mistakes, was tiresome.
The timeline travels from present to past. Much emphasis was placed on the fact that Mayson does not like kids nor does she want any. Too many times, as if it mattered, stating that Grant had dark skin. Grant's race was not relevant to the story.
Profile Image for --karen Green-berry.
558 reviews14 followers
January 12, 2016
Grant and Mayson

Things Remembered is one of those stories that reaches into your soul and tugs at every known emotion an individual can have. This is a companion novel to Accidentally on purpose, Tethered and Girl Code.

That being said, this was one of my most anticipated books and she didn't disappoint. Mayson has been to hell and back; from her sheltered childhood which led to her eventual rebellion; to her continued drug use for a long period of time. Her drug use led to terrible acts done to her which resulted in self loathing.

Grant is the brother of Mayson's best friend who died of a drug overdose at the same that she overdose. When Grant left, it devastated her. After thirteen years he returned and found himself just as much in love with her as ever. Needless to say, she was not having it even though she still found him irresistible.

The characters from all the previous novels made a significant appearance and it was beautiful. The dialogue and interaction was intense at times between Mayson and error mother, cousins nd even Grant at times. She was so broken by the things that happened to her as a result of her actions as well as the actions of others.

Will she let go and allow herself to find her HEA? Will she seek help to fix her broken soul and let love in? Will her family embrace her? All these questions are answered in great detail. The result is a page turning, sleep deprived experience in my quest to finish. I truly loved this book.
Profile Image for Nikki Costello ***Crazy Cajun Book Addicts Blog***.
2,079 reviews56 followers
January 10, 2016
***ARC given in exchange for an honest review***                             


Wow!!! What a fabulous read from LD Davis as always she sucks you in with her writing style and her great characters. Things Remembered is an Accidently on Purpose companion novel and is the last of the series, it's Mayson's Story. 


Mayson Grayne is a recovering drug addict and everyday is a struggle for her as she battles against the demons of her past. As she watches everyone around her get married and have kids she believes this is something that isn't on the cards for her but could that all be about to change with the re-apperance of Grant Alexander the only man she has ever really loved. Grant's re-apperance completely turns her world upside down and she finds that maybe the truth of her past isn't necessarily how she remembers it.


This book sent me on a major emotional rollercoaster and tissues will definitely be needed. We also catch up on the lives of all our favorite couples too, Emmy and Luke, Emmet and Donya, Tabitha and Leo and Kyle and Lily. Believe me when I say you won't want to put this book down until you reach the very end.


I would definitely recommend you read this series in order to fully appreciate this book.


Accidently on Purpose 

Worthy of Redemption 

Worth the Fight 

Tethered

Girl Code

Things Remembered 
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