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Perfectly Aligned
Ten years.
It had been ten years since Corwin Rogers saw Hailee Samuels at their high school graduation. Hailee, on the other hand, saw Corwin frequently in her dreams. Despite their lack of contact, Corwin’s gorgeous face haunted her mind, and in its idle hours of the night, it always reverted back to the image of the teenage boy she loved in secret years ago.
They’d been classmates during those four years, forging a limited friendship and bond over their struggles. Hailee never told him how she felt, and she wasn't sure if the feelings were reciprocated either, because while Corwin shared most of himself with her, there was still distance between them. When she runs into him ten years later, the two are given another fateful opportunity to be everything for each other.
Hailee starts to believe that her inexplicable dreams meant something and that her ties to Corwin were stronger than she ever believed, but when secrets are kept and the truth emerges, it challenges their chance at finally being perfectly aligned.
It had been ten years since Corwin Rogers saw Hailee Samuels at their high school graduation. Hailee, on the other hand, saw Corwin frequently in her dreams. Despite their lack of contact, Corwin’s gorgeous face haunted her mind, and in its idle hours of the night, it always reverted back to the image of the teenage boy she loved in secret years ago.
They’d been classmates during those four years, forging a limited friendship and bond over their struggles. Hailee never told him how she felt, and she wasn't sure if the feelings were reciprocated either, because while Corwin shared most of himself with her, there was still distance between them. When she runs into him ten years later, the two are given another fateful opportunity to be everything for each other.
Hailee starts to believe that her inexplicable dreams meant something and that her ties to Corwin were stronger than she ever believed, but when secrets are kept and the truth emerges, it challenges their chance at finally being perfectly aligned.
- GenresContemporaryAdultRomance
388 pages, Kindle Edition
First published October 20, 2015
3 people are currently reading
187 people want to read
About the author
Stephanie Alba
8 books57 followersStephanie Alba lives in Miami, Florida with her husband, her toddler and their two dogs, Milo and Van Gogh. She's obsessed with Disney, British history, traveling, romances novels, movies, and Halloween. When she's not glued to her laptop or writing in her notebook, she's either: running, planning her next vacation, binge-watching Netflix, reading, or chasing her toddler.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 38 reviews
October 21, 2015
5 "YOU'RE MY DENSITY" STARS ♥
Stephanie Alba did it again. With her second release you can tell how much she has grown up as a writer. This book was beautifully written.
Perfectly Aligned has all the characteristics for us romance readers to fall in love.
Corwin & Hailee lost contact for ten years. Fate reunited them again and that is when the love story begins.
This was not insta love, this book has a slow but sweet build up in the story. With all the moments of catching up, stealing touches and conversations, Stephanie Alba makes you live vicariously through them, makes you feel the moment their relationship changed, when the friendship line was broken to give love a chance.
We know that not all the relationships are perfect there is always something lurking in the dark, waiting to mess up everything. Unfortunately, it was Corwin the one who failed. I did understood him but he did the wrong thing. Instead of protect his relationship with Hailee, he hurt her. He put both Hailee & me away. Because I did loved that woman so much! I felt a connection with her. She wanted what all girls want included me, a man who loves her the same way she does. She gave him all she had to give and in return, he did not give her what she deserved. That broke my heart.
I abso-fucking-lutely loved this story from beginning to end. I laughed, I sighed, I fell in love, I cried my eyes out and fell in love again.
If you are looking for a sweet and romantic story with not to much drama, just go for this book.
Stephanie Alba did it again. With her second release you can tell how much she has grown up as a writer. This book was beautifully written.
Perfectly Aligned has all the characteristics for us romance readers to fall in love.
Corwin & Hailee lost contact for ten years. Fate reunited them again and that is when the love story begins.
This was not insta love, this book has a slow but sweet build up in the story. With all the moments of catching up, stealing touches and conversations, Stephanie Alba makes you live vicariously through them, makes you feel the moment their relationship changed, when the friendship line was broken to give love a chance.
We know that not all the relationships are perfect there is always something lurking in the dark, waiting to mess up everything. Unfortunately, it was Corwin the one who failed. I did understood him but he did the wrong thing. Instead of protect his relationship with Hailee, he hurt her. He put both Hailee & me away. Because I did loved that woman so much! I felt a connection with her. She wanted what all girls want included me, a man who loves her the same way she does. She gave him all she had to give and in return, he did not give her what she deserved. That broke my heart.
I abso-fucking-lutely loved this story from beginning to end. I laughed, I sighed, I fell in love, I cried my eyes out and fell in love again.
If you are looking for a sweet and romantic story with not to much drama, just go for this book.
October 29, 2015
Advance Readers Copy (ARC) provide for my blog for an honest review by the lovely author Stephanie Alba
Title: Perfectly Aligned
Author: Stephanie Alba
Pages: 384
Genre: Contemporary Chick-Lit
Age Group: New Adult
Characters: Corwin Rogers, Hailee Samuels
Point of View: First
Release Date: October 27th, 2015
Date Read: October 26th, 2015
Overall Rating: 3.5 Stars
I felt this story was just an okay read. I just couldn't connection to the characters but I enjoyed the plotline to the story.
Title: Perfectly Aligned
Author: Stephanie Alba
Pages: 384
Genre: Contemporary Chick-Lit
Age Group: New Adult
Characters: Corwin Rogers, Hailee Samuels
Point of View: First
Release Date: October 27th, 2015
Date Read: October 26th, 2015
Overall Rating: 3.5 Stars
I felt this story was just an okay read. I just couldn't connection to the characters but I enjoyed the plotline to the story.
October 6, 2015
Perfectly Aligned is a stand-alone novel from Stephanie Alba. With her second release you can tell she's developed her voice and style as an author.
PA is a friends to lovers romance with a bit of a twist, as Alba has described it. The connection our two characters has takes you on an emotional ride of friendship, love, heartbreak and joy.
The thing I enjoyed most about this book (other than it takes place in the greater Seattle area and I can easily picture surroundings) is that both characters are equal. I know that's vague and I can't explain too much more without giving away any spoilers but they're both written with equal amounts of personality, flaws, and enthusiasm.
Although Alba turned the romance up a notch, this is still a sweet get-to-know-you romance novel. It's not instalove, it's a story of a couple that falls in love over time and learns to accept the differences and pasts of each other. Another stellar job by one of my favorite debut authors in 2015!
PA is a friends to lovers romance with a bit of a twist, as Alba has described it. The connection our two characters has takes you on an emotional ride of friendship, love, heartbreak and joy.
The thing I enjoyed most about this book (other than it takes place in the greater Seattle area and I can easily picture surroundings) is that both characters are equal. I know that's vague and I can't explain too much more without giving away any spoilers but they're both written with equal amounts of personality, flaws, and enthusiasm.
Although Alba turned the romance up a notch, this is still a sweet get-to-know-you romance novel. It's not instalove, it's a story of a couple that falls in love over time and learns to accept the differences and pasts of each other. Another stellar job by one of my favorite debut authors in 2015!
October 28, 2015
Originally posted on Daydreaming Books.
**I received an eARC of this book from IndieSage PR as apart of this blog tour in exchange for an honest review.**
This book was incredibly beautiful, it had so many heartfelt emotions which totally consumed me. There was a permanent smile plastered over my face while I was reading this, I laughed, I cried, I could feel what the characters were feeling and it took me for an emotional ride which I wholeheartedly loved.
Let me start by giving a short synopsis as always. Corwin and Hailee had been friends since high school and they connected on an emotional level during their college years. They have always been there for each other. But after college they lost contact although Hailee dreamt about him almost every night and craved his friendship. After ten years they accidentally meet again and this time they are reluctant to pass up on the second chance that fate provided. But both of them have a past and it has a way of catching up, it depends on Hailee and Corwin, if they are willing to push past their insecurities and embrace their present or risk loosing one another forever.
I have no words to explain how much I enjoyed this story, although I'm going to try my best here. It was simply so beautiful. Hailee and Corwin had been good friends in college and they shared their secrets with each other. When his mother was diagnosed with cancer, Hailee stood beside him firmly at that time, supporting him in every way. They both had feelings for one another but neither of them had the courage to declare that for the fear that they would loose this invaluable friendship. Nonetheless, they lost contact after this and they accidentally meet after ten years! The plot was simple so sweet. This book portrayed flashbacks from the past which connected with the future events and it was executed perfectly.
Their relationship evolved with time, it was so great to see them connect after the long span of ten years. I loved the fact that they took their time before taking the huge step, they slowly got to know each other again in a new light. Of course they faced quite a few problems but they never gave up on each other, they would always find their way back. I loved how they both fought for each other which made their relationship more stronger than ever.
The characters were so realistic and relatable. I loved Hailee, she was simple, sweet and dedicated. She had been in love with Corwin since forever and when she got another chance with him after ten years, she took it. Her insecurities, the problems she faced made her character more realistic and prominent. I immensely loved Corwin. He was a perfect gentleman and a great friend. It was clear that he felt deeply for Hailee though he took his time before taking a step. Gosh, it was so clear that these two people were meant for each other yet they were conflicted if they should act on their feelings or not. I was soooo glad when he finally kissed her. I loved their romance, it was so passionate and sweet and full of love and devotion. Their connection didn't feel forced in any way and I loved the small and intimate moments they spend with each other. Emilia, Hailee's friend was pretty awsome as well. She was another of my favourite character in this book. She was a great and loving friend and always wished the best for Hailee.
The writing was simple yet so beautiful. I easily fell into the comfortable rhythm of this book, not for a second did I feel bored. The pace was even throughout the book, neither too slow nor too fast. Perfectly Aligned was seriously addicting and it was pretty hard for me to stop reading and put it down, so although this book was a little big, not that I minded and I finished it quite easily in 2 days.
Overall, I fell in love with Perfectly Aligned , this book was literally perfection. I loved how the relationship between Hailee and Corwin evolved with the story. All the characters were pretty great, they were relatable and realistic. The romance was perfect in this book and it was slowly build up. I also loved the friendship aspect of this book. The writing was smooth and beautiful and the pace was even throughout the book. I definitely looking forward to read more works by this author.
Recommend it?
Definitely yes!
**I received an eARC of this book from IndieSage PR as apart of this blog tour in exchange for an honest review.**
This book was incredibly beautiful, it had so many heartfelt emotions which totally consumed me. There was a permanent smile plastered over my face while I was reading this, I laughed, I cried, I could feel what the characters were feeling and it took me for an emotional ride which I wholeheartedly loved.
Let me start by giving a short synopsis as always. Corwin and Hailee had been friends since high school and they connected on an emotional level during their college years. They have always been there for each other. But after college they lost contact although Hailee dreamt about him almost every night and craved his friendship. After ten years they accidentally meet again and this time they are reluctant to pass up on the second chance that fate provided. But both of them have a past and it has a way of catching up, it depends on Hailee and Corwin, if they are willing to push past their insecurities and embrace their present or risk loosing one another forever.
I have no words to explain how much I enjoyed this story, although I'm going to try my best here. It was simply so beautiful. Hailee and Corwin had been good friends in college and they shared their secrets with each other. When his mother was diagnosed with cancer, Hailee stood beside him firmly at that time, supporting him in every way. They both had feelings for one another but neither of them had the courage to declare that for the fear that they would loose this invaluable friendship. Nonetheless, they lost contact after this and they accidentally meet after ten years! The plot was simple so sweet. This book portrayed flashbacks from the past which connected with the future events and it was executed perfectly.
Their relationship evolved with time, it was so great to see them connect after the long span of ten years. I loved the fact that they took their time before taking the huge step, they slowly got to know each other again in a new light. Of course they faced quite a few problems but they never gave up on each other, they would always find their way back. I loved how they both fought for each other which made their relationship more stronger than ever.
The characters were so realistic and relatable. I loved Hailee, she was simple, sweet and dedicated. She had been in love with Corwin since forever and when she got another chance with him after ten years, she took it. Her insecurities, the problems she faced made her character more realistic and prominent. I immensely loved Corwin. He was a perfect gentleman and a great friend. It was clear that he felt deeply for Hailee though he took his time before taking a step. Gosh, it was so clear that these two people were meant for each other yet they were conflicted if they should act on their feelings or not. I was soooo glad when he finally kissed her. I loved their romance, it was so passionate and sweet and full of love and devotion. Their connection didn't feel forced in any way and I loved the small and intimate moments they spend with each other. Emilia, Hailee's friend was pretty awsome as well. She was another of my favourite character in this book. She was a great and loving friend and always wished the best for Hailee.
The writing was simple yet so beautiful. I easily fell into the comfortable rhythm of this book, not for a second did I feel bored. The pace was even throughout the book, neither too slow nor too fast. Perfectly Aligned was seriously addicting and it was pretty hard for me to stop reading and put it down, so although this book was a little big, not that I minded and I finished it quite easily in 2 days.
Overall, I fell in love with Perfectly Aligned , this book was literally perfection. I loved how the relationship between Hailee and Corwin evolved with the story. All the characters were pretty great, they were relatable and realistic. The romance was perfect in this book and it was slowly build up. I also loved the friendship aspect of this book. The writing was smooth and beautiful and the pace was even throughout the book. I definitely looking forward to read more works by this author.
Recommend it?
Definitely yes!
October 14, 2015
So... I've got mixed emotions. This book is a standalone, but lengthier compared to others. The author's words are just beautiful that I've found so many striking lines along the way. It also has a slow build up in the story, but all of that was totally fine with me. I think the more detailed description of how Corwin and Hailee reunited after cutting all ties for ten years captured my heart the most. All those catching up, hanging out, treading the waters part of their relationship was something I enjoyed. It showed how the strength of the foundation of their relationship as friends, partners and lovers was built or rather, rebuilt. And I indeed loved the flashbacks too. But then when secrets started popping out, everything between the two became rocky as hell. Love, trust, and even friendship were tested.
Corwin and Hailee's story is a huge kismet. When they reunited, I was so giddy and excited that they found each other again, knowing that they had so much unfinished business. I loved Corwin Rogers so much in the beginning. He was all too wonderfully sweet and pleasant and such a perfect gentleman. But then as time passes by, you start sensing that there's something big he's holding back. And that's where I started losing my grip on him. I didn't want to, but his actions pushed me farther away. Every time he held Hailee at arms length, it just made me pull away from him. I hated how he handled and reacted to things. I know he was scared and was protecting something, but it came out all too selfish for me and that he forgot to include Hailee in all of it. To me, it felt like he was giving importance to something else than his girl and that made me ache for Hailee. There's not a doubt that he loves that girl with his entire being, but he was just so lost. I think he just didn't know his priorities all that well and I found it so unfair for Hailee. And all that girl ever wanted was for the boy/man of her dreams to love her the way she does him. She's been dreaming and pining for him without even knowing it for ten years, and this is what she gets. I felt her pain every time she and Corwin gets into a fight, during the times she feels isolated and left out, the times when she feels all her insecurities dragging her down. I know not all relationships are perfect and bumps along the way are unavoidable, but Corwin just made her hurt too much.
That being said, I wasn't that into the ending as much as I wanted to. It just started dwindling down ever since Corwin started messing up, though it just made me love Hailee Samuels so much more. Don't get me wrong, this story ends on such a happy note. Believe me, it is as happy as I could think it could be. But Corwin still left me confused and that made me feel disconnected somehow. In the end, I still don't know whether I love him or hate him or accept his redemption. He still makes me feel so torn. I love the second chance at love kind of stories, but this one left me a bit baffled. I embraced the build, but when that other shoe dropped and things got complicated, it was a chaos of thoughts and emotions.
Corwin and Hailee's story is a huge kismet. When they reunited, I was so giddy and excited that they found each other again, knowing that they had so much unfinished business. I loved Corwin Rogers so much in the beginning. He was all too wonderfully sweet and pleasant and such a perfect gentleman. But then as time passes by, you start sensing that there's something big he's holding back. And that's where I started losing my grip on him. I didn't want to, but his actions pushed me farther away. Every time he held Hailee at arms length, it just made me pull away from him. I hated how he handled and reacted to things. I know he was scared and was protecting something, but it came out all too selfish for me and that he forgot to include Hailee in all of it. To me, it felt like he was giving importance to something else than his girl and that made me ache for Hailee. There's not a doubt that he loves that girl with his entire being, but he was just so lost. I think he just didn't know his priorities all that well and I found it so unfair for Hailee. And all that girl ever wanted was for the boy/man of her dreams to love her the way she does him. She's been dreaming and pining for him without even knowing it for ten years, and this is what she gets. I felt her pain every time she and Corwin gets into a fight, during the times she feels isolated and left out, the times when she feels all her insecurities dragging her down. I know not all relationships are perfect and bumps along the way are unavoidable, but Corwin just made her hurt too much.
That being said, I wasn't that into the ending as much as I wanted to. It just started dwindling down ever since Corwin started messing up, though it just made me love Hailee Samuels so much more. Don't get me wrong, this story ends on such a happy note. Believe me, it is as happy as I could think it could be. But Corwin still left me confused and that made me feel disconnected somehow. In the end, I still don't know whether I love him or hate him or accept his redemption. He still makes me feel so torn. I love the second chance at love kind of stories, but this one left me a bit baffled. I embraced the build, but when that other shoe dropped and things got complicated, it was a chaos of thoughts and emotions.
August 18, 2021
Hasta que AL FIN.... igual perdí mi tiempo :/
Qué terrible este libro (de maloso, fastidioso, estúpido... y pare de contar)
Tantas cosas malas por decir de este libro que ni sé cómo comenzar... pero aquí voy:
1. Se me hizo E-TER-NO... fue muy lento, la forma de escribir de esta autora no ayuda, muy descriptivo y muchas veces se vuelve redundante.
2. Los protagonistas :
O sea, este Corwin fue es uno de los peores protagonistas que he leído en mucho tiempo... todas sus actitudes lo hacían ver como el antiheroe... fue un falso, un imbécil, un bipolar, me cayó super mal!! Y eso es mucho decir, pues el libro estaba escrito desde el POV de Hailee y ella lo tenía siempre en un pedestal, enamorada como una TONTA de él.... todavía así no me gustó el tipo.
Y ella me pareció muuuuy tonta, eso de pasar 10 años soñando con un chico es como
Porque además la última vez que lo vio eran adolescentes, ahora tiene 28 años (aunque esta autora es tan inconsistente en los detalles que en el libro ponen que ella tiene 27 ¬¬) ya ha tenido novios y sigue "y que soñando con un muchachito
Me parece algo poco probable y muuuuuy LOCO! Pero en fin esta es ella... así que tampoco fue de mi agrado.... porque con su enamoramiento se dejaba pisotear por Corwin y le aceptaba y perdonaba todas sus idioteces. Y sí, ella también tuvo sus fallas y le mintió en algo importante que debía conocer si iban a ir en serio con su relación...así que al final los dos fallaron.
3. La trama es MALA... no me gustó cómo se desarrollaron las cosas y agregando algunas incoherencias en el libro, como mencionaba más arriba, lo terminan de completar. Y los problemas a causa de las informaciones que omitieron... me pareció estúpido... porque entonces no se amaban lo suficiente para que hubiera esa confianza de decirse algo importante y que va a afectar su vida como pareja.... no vi un amor fuerte ahí!
4. Por último, el razonamiento de los últimos capítulos antes del epílogo.... PATETICO.
Me esperaba algo más contundente... porque no me creí el amor de este por la protagonista "y que desde que tenía 15 años" pfff
Al final yo como Hailee no le hubiera esperado como una idiota después de la última embarrada que hizo... le hubiera dado una patada por ese culo y listo!!
y eso es todo!!
Qué terrible este libro (de maloso, fastidioso, estúpido... y pare de contar)
Tantas cosas malas por decir de este libro que ni sé cómo comenzar... pero aquí voy:
1. Se me hizo E-TER-NO... fue muy lento, la forma de escribir de esta autora no ayuda, muy descriptivo y muchas veces se vuelve redundante.
2. Los protagonistas :
O sea, este Corwin fue es uno de los peores protagonistas que he leído en mucho tiempo... todas sus actitudes lo hacían ver como el antiheroe... fue un falso, un imbécil, un bipolar, me cayó super mal!! Y eso es mucho decir, pues el libro estaba escrito desde el POV de Hailee y ella lo tenía siempre en un pedestal, enamorada como una TONTA de él.... todavía así no me gustó el tipo.
Y ella me pareció muuuuy tonta, eso de pasar 10 años soñando con un chico es como
Porque además la última vez que lo vio eran adolescentes, ahora tiene 28 años (aunque esta autora es tan inconsistente en los detalles que en el libro ponen que ella tiene 27 ¬¬) ya ha tenido novios y sigue "y que soñando con un muchachito
Me parece algo poco probable y muuuuuy LOCO! Pero en fin esta es ella... así que tampoco fue de mi agrado.... porque con su enamoramiento se dejaba pisotear por Corwin y le aceptaba y perdonaba todas sus idioteces. Y sí, ella también tuvo sus fallas y le mintió en algo importante que debía conocer si iban a ir en serio con su relación...así que al final los dos fallaron.
3. La trama es MALA... no me gustó cómo se desarrollaron las cosas y agregando algunas incoherencias en el libro, como mencionaba más arriba, lo terminan de completar. Y los problemas a causa de las informaciones que omitieron... me pareció estúpido... porque entonces no se amaban lo suficiente para que hubiera esa confianza de decirse algo importante y que va a afectar su vida como pareja.... no vi un amor fuerte ahí!
4. Por último, el razonamiento de los últimos capítulos antes del epílogo.... PATETICO.
Me esperaba algo más contundente... porque no me creí el amor de este por la protagonista "y que desde que tenía 15 años" pfff
Al final yo como Hailee no le hubiera esperado como una idiota después de la última embarrada que hizo... le hubiera dado una patada por ese culo y listo!!
y eso es todo!!
September 29, 2015
I was given an ARC copy for an honest review—
‘We’d somehow met in the middle after all those years and it seemed all was as it should have been. Those years no longer felt wasted. Instead they felt like pages of our history that tied us closer together.”
I absolutely loved Corwin and Hailee’s story from beginning to end. Perfectly Aligned was sweet, romantic, swoony, and wonderfully written. I laughed, I cried, my heart skipped a beat over Corwin Rogers. Stephanie Alba, thank you for writing such a beautiful book and using one of my all-time favorite 80’s movies, Back to the Future- it just made me love Hailee Samuels even more!
‘We’d somehow met in the middle after all those years and it seemed all was as it should have been. Those years no longer felt wasted. Instead they felt like pages of our history that tied us closer together.”
I absolutely loved Corwin and Hailee’s story from beginning to end. Perfectly Aligned was sweet, romantic, swoony, and wonderfully written. I laughed, I cried, my heart skipped a beat over Corwin Rogers. Stephanie Alba, thank you for writing such a beautiful book and using one of my all-time favorite 80’s movies, Back to the Future- it just made me love Hailee Samuels even more!
Read
November 11, 2015Another feel good story from Ms. Stephanie Alba.
Do you believe in destiny?? that things are meant to be?? In second chances?? if Yes... then you will love this story. If No... this story will make you believe in destiny.
Hailee and Corwin story is beautiful. They learn to accept what they lost, finding out themselves, grabbing the second chances life has given them to be happy. They moved forward together.
Im looking forward to Stephanie's future works.
Do you believe in destiny?? that things are meant to be?? In second chances?? if Yes... then you will love this story. If No... this story will make you believe in destiny.
Hailee and Corwin story is beautiful. They learn to accept what they lost, finding out themselves, grabbing the second chances life has given them to be happy. They moved forward together.
Im looking forward to Stephanie's future works.
Read
October 20, 2015It's live!
October 22, 2015
Hailee Samuels love life has been a fleeting one , trying to find Mr. Perfect - the one she knows that once she meets him she will be spending the rest of her life with him. There is only one man that she has ever imagined her life being with and so far she has never got the chance despite the fact that for the past ten years he has not only plagued her thoughts but he also haunts her dreams and has been recurring. Is this a sign for something amazing to happen ? Ten years ago, Hailee met Corwin - the two became best friends and Hailee had the biggest crush on Corwin , but never told him how she felt and she sat on the sidelines as he dated girl after girl. The two though were close and Corwin shared things with Hailee that he never told anybody else - things that he normally would keep hidden from others , but with Hailee he felt comfortable to open up and share his deepest and darkest secrets. Now ten years later, Hailee runs into Corwin at the local Farmers Market as he has moved back home . Is this Fate trying to tell them something ? Over the next few weeks Hailee and Corwin will start dating and things will seem like they have been perfectly aligned and that this is meant to be . What will happen though when Hailee discovers that Corwin hasn't been truthful about his past and Hailee feels betrayed ? Has her dream of a HEA shattered and her memory of Corwin been tainted ? Or is this just fate and destiny playing with them in order for their love lives to become perfectly aligned as one couple in order to have a no-holds barred true love. If you love true-love and second chance romance reunion stories, then Perfectly Aligned by Stephanie Alba is the book for you.
October 21, 2015
3.5 - 4 stars
I was given an ARC for an honest review.
Perfectly Aligned is a friends to lovers romance with a bit of drama. A story about a second chance at love.
When I first began reading I was instantly intrigued with the idea of high school friends having a connection toward each other but never having the chance to fully explore those feelings.
Hailee and Corwin spend their high school years getting to know each other. 4 years of attraction that they didn’t act on. Losing touch after graduation, Hailee is left wondering whatever happened with Corwin. Especially after spending night after night dreaming of him.
Ten years later, she finally gets the chance to find out what Corwin has been up to these passed couple years. Both spend their days trying to catch up on what they’ve missed. Instantly rekindling their connection from all those years ago.
The story felt a bit too slow for me, but I get the slow build up. Having missed ten years of each other’s life’s, I understand why is had to be unhurried. The only thing I really wanted more of was the chance to be inside Corwin’s head a bit longer. The bit of drama I mentioned earlier was unexpected for me. I felt like I should of known something like that was going to happen. Lol it added a bit of excitement to the story. One moment I was swooning, the next I was beyond pissed and jealous!!!
If you’re looking for a sweet story about friendship and love, with some drama. Give Perfectly Aligned a chance. <3
I was given an ARC for an honest review.
Perfectly Aligned is a friends to lovers romance with a bit of drama. A story about a second chance at love.
When I first began reading I was instantly intrigued with the idea of high school friends having a connection toward each other but never having the chance to fully explore those feelings.
Hailee and Corwin spend their high school years getting to know each other. 4 years of attraction that they didn’t act on. Losing touch after graduation, Hailee is left wondering whatever happened with Corwin. Especially after spending night after night dreaming of him.
Ten years later, she finally gets the chance to find out what Corwin has been up to these passed couple years. Both spend their days trying to catch up on what they’ve missed. Instantly rekindling their connection from all those years ago.
The story felt a bit too slow for me, but I get the slow build up. Having missed ten years of each other’s life’s, I understand why is had to be unhurried. The only thing I really wanted more of was the chance to be inside Corwin’s head a bit longer. The bit of drama I mentioned earlier was unexpected for me. I felt like I should of known something like that was going to happen. Lol it added a bit of excitement to the story. One moment I was swooning, the next I was beyond pissed and jealous!!!
If you’re looking for a sweet story about friendship and love, with some drama. Give Perfectly Aligned a chance. <3
September 27, 2015
I am completely blown away. Stephanie Alba has an outstanding way with words. She sucks you in immediately to her stories and doesn't let you go. This story was no exception. I smiled, I laughed, and I cried. I felt every emotion possible while reading this fabulous book. Corwin and Hailee's story was a beautiful tale of fate and love. Of believing that things that are meant to be will be. Of two people overcoming obstacles in life while still ending up with the love of their lives at the end. Of showing that two people can experience heartbreak and loss, while still seeing the light at the end of the tunnel. And of course, knowing when the right person crosses your path, there is no one else for you. So you fight for that person through the good and the bad. Knowing that in the end, no one will make you as happy as that one person.
This story completely overwhelmed me from beginning to end. I felt everything these characters felt and I wouldn't have had it any other way. I highly recommend this book to anyone and everyone because everyone needs Stephanie Alba's books in their lives.
This story completely overwhelmed me from beginning to end. I felt everything these characters felt and I wouldn't have had it any other way. I highly recommend this book to anyone and everyone because everyone needs Stephanie Alba's books in their lives.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
October 8, 2015
I was given an arc a while about but I took a while to see how I really felt about the book.
Truth is, I didn't finish it. No matter how many times I tried.
At first I thought I couldn't get into the book because of a book funk, so I decided to wait a while. I had read other books instead, but when I tried getting back to it and I couldn't get into it at all. I found myself easily distracted, and putting the book down for any little reason.
It was a slow build up kind of book, which is fine. But there wasn't much going on to keep me interested. I did like the beginning and their first encounters but after that it kind of fell flat and the characters seemed less appealing to me. I started to find Hailee's attraction to Corwin to be all-consuming. So all-consuming that I wondered what else she had going for her. As for Corwin, his personality seemed forced.
If you read the book, I hope you find enjoyment out of it. But this book wasn't for me.
Truth is, I didn't finish it. No matter how many times I tried.
At first I thought I couldn't get into the book because of a book funk, so I decided to wait a while. I had read other books instead, but when I tried getting back to it and I couldn't get into it at all. I found myself easily distracted, and putting the book down for any little reason.
It was a slow build up kind of book, which is fine. But there wasn't much going on to keep me interested. I did like the beginning and their first encounters but after that it kind of fell flat and the characters seemed less appealing to me. I started to find Hailee's attraction to Corwin to be all-consuming. So all-consuming that I wondered what else she had going for her. As for Corwin, his personality seemed forced.
If you read the book, I hope you find enjoyment out of it. But this book wasn't for me.
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October 31, 2015Perfectly Sweet and Loving Story
Stephanie Alba knows how to write such pure love stories; the kind you find in Disney movies! It's such a refreshing writing style!
Perfectly Aligned is the story of a couple that fell in love when they were young and find themselves in each other 10 years later.
Corbin Rogers has not connected with anyone as much as he did with Hailee. She was his strength during during difficult times, and shared his laughs during the happy times.
Hailee Samuels has never loved anyone so deeply as she has Corwin. He was her light. But over time she felt like she was not enough and kept her feelings bottled up always wondering whether or not Corwin felt the same way.
This story is about the healing power of true love and how it withstands the challenges of time and life when it is truly real. Stephanie Alba outdid herself!
Stephanie Alba knows how to write such pure love stories; the kind you find in Disney movies! It's such a refreshing writing style!
Perfectly Aligned is the story of a couple that fell in love when they were young and find themselves in each other 10 years later.
Corbin Rogers has not connected with anyone as much as he did with Hailee. She was his strength during during difficult times, and shared his laughs during the happy times.
Hailee Samuels has never loved anyone so deeply as she has Corwin. He was her light. But over time she felt like she was not enough and kept her feelings bottled up always wondering whether or not Corwin felt the same way.
This story is about the healing power of true love and how it withstands the challenges of time and life when it is truly real. Stephanie Alba outdid herself!
February 9, 2016
I always enjoy books about second chances of love. This book was that, but not really. These two were friends from high school, but were never lovers, I think, no, I know that they could have been, but fears and life kept that from happening. Ten years later, fate, or whatever you like to call it leads these two back into one another's path. I loved them together. First, the friendship that was first formed and then slowly building up to their mutual love and desire for each other. I loved that there was fear there and issues, it made it more real! I really enjoyed this book, my only regret was how long it took me to read it!
September 25, 2015
I was given a copy of this for an honest review. I loved Corwin and Hailee's story. He's the man we all wish for in our men. Sexy, smart, super romantic. He has a secret though. One that might tear them apart. Hailee had a secret of her own as well, dreaming of Corwin for 10 years before they were reunited. He really was the man of her dreams! As with her last book, when Stephanie tells you a story, she goes into detail. It never bores you. It's kind of like reading an old friend's diary. Another amazing book from this author, and I can't wait for more!
October 24, 2015
I was lucky enough to be gifted by one friend. And let me tell you this book is just beyond romantic and second chances worth it. If you are looking for a great and romantic read this is the book. The first book that I read of the author and she don’t disappoint me. The story have everything, Stephanie sucked me into the story and I found myself saying one more chapter. The story is well written filled with plenty of emotions. Wow a great story of love to be read. I recommend 100%. An stellar job!!!
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October 30, 20155 STAR READ!!! (Because I cannot rate higher)
I freaking loved this book so freaking much. I'm a huge fan of second chance romances and this one lands in my top favorites. The relationship between Hailee and Corwin flowed perfectly and I found myself cheering through most of the book for him to kiss her!! The only thing I wanted was for the book to be in dual POV because I would've loved to get into his head and seen what his feelings and thoughts were. I cannot wait to read more from Stephanie!
I freaking loved this book so freaking much. I'm a huge fan of second chance romances and this one lands in my top favorites. The relationship between Hailee and Corwin flowed perfectly and I found myself cheering through most of the book for him to kiss her!! The only thing I wanted was for the book to be in dual POV because I would've loved to get into his head and seen what his feelings and thoughts were. I cannot wait to read more from Stephanie!
October 24, 2015
Stephanie, you've done it again! You had me obsessed with your book for 2 days. I contemplated calling in sick to work to finish it. I fell in love with Hailee and Corwin and the love story you created. I felt so many emotions throughout the book and it had me crying several times. Please, please keep writing and sharing your gift with others! I can't wait to read more of your works. You've easily become one of my favorite authors!
January 6, 2016
I really loved how this book was so real. How Hailee & Corwin's relationship was of real struggles & trials that couples often go through. There were a few times when I was irritated with Hailee because of the trouble she would cause Corwin but then I realize that most females are like that. We're so selfish with our man that were protective of them just as much as they are with us. I give this book 4.5 stars. Absolutely loved it. Looking forward to more books from this author.
October 5, 2015
Corwin and Hailee's story sends you on a roller coaster of feels, but it is so beautiful. I loved it and can not wait for more from Stephanie Alba.
December 14, 2015
#Cringe
July 27, 2019
Capítulo 20 y es uno de los libros más aburridos, abandono... tal vez lo termine algún día
April 28, 2018
¡Es demasiado lindo!
October 18, 2015
Full review to come
February 25, 2020
Perfectly Aligned is a sweet friends-to-lovers type romance. I say sweet because, for much of the book, Hailee and Corwin have the type of relationship you might expect more from innocent high schoolers than from experienced adults–one rife with timidity and miscommunication.
“I found a secret, foolish pleasure in the thought that his dog liked me.”
Oh, and also that silly tendency we all had when we were younger (I mean…I certainly don’t do things like this now. Uh uh. Nope. Not this lady…) to try to find meaning and secret signs in every little action and interaction.
“I recognized that he no longer felt alone in life, and by knowing his secret, neither did I.”
At times, I found this juvenile dynamic incredibly frustrating and unrealistic, especially in an adult romance novel. As I thought more about it, however, I realized that the author was attempting to establish a parallel between the relationship Hailee and Corwin had as teenagers and the budding romance they are discovering as adults. By creating this parallel, and then intersecting them with the stabilizing presence of honesty (through secrets revealed), she forges a relationship that can defy all odds and withstand all storms.
That being said, and although I was finally able to discern the author’s possible intent, I do think that there was an overwhelming and, at times, distracting authorial presence in this book. Often, because of awkward tones and phrasing, I’d find myself aware of how the words were being crafted in an attempt to create a certain response or image, rather than actually feeling the intended emotion or connection to the characters and story.
Because I know that authorial presence is a pet peeve of mine, and because I can be a bit picky about incorrect vocabulary usage, I give the book a pass on those points. I think that, despite these things, Stephanie Alba succeeded in creating a story that captures the beauty of a love that transcends missed opportunities and past mistakes.
“I found a secret, foolish pleasure in the thought that his dog liked me.”
Oh, and also that silly tendency we all had when we were younger (I mean…I certainly don’t do things like this now. Uh uh. Nope. Not this lady…) to try to find meaning and secret signs in every little action and interaction.
“I recognized that he no longer felt alone in life, and by knowing his secret, neither did I.”
At times, I found this juvenile dynamic incredibly frustrating and unrealistic, especially in an adult romance novel. As I thought more about it, however, I realized that the author was attempting to establish a parallel between the relationship Hailee and Corwin had as teenagers and the budding romance they are discovering as adults. By creating this parallel, and then intersecting them with the stabilizing presence of honesty (through secrets revealed), she forges a relationship that can defy all odds and withstand all storms.
That being said, and although I was finally able to discern the author’s possible intent, I do think that there was an overwhelming and, at times, distracting authorial presence in this book. Often, because of awkward tones and phrasing, I’d find myself aware of how the words were being crafted in an attempt to create a certain response or image, rather than actually feeling the intended emotion or connection to the characters and story.
Because I know that authorial presence is a pet peeve of mine, and because I can be a bit picky about incorrect vocabulary usage, I give the book a pass on those points. I think that, despite these things, Stephanie Alba succeeded in creating a story that captures the beauty of a love that transcends missed opportunities and past mistakes.
September 30, 2019
At the beginning this book was very nice, but as I was moving forward I didn't know the couple felt very annoying and the story is beautiful but I think that the theme of soulmates is not very realistic for me.
October 17, 2015
5-you're-my-density-stars for this wonderful beauty ❤
At first I want to thank Stephanie for personally giving me a advanced reader copy, I have been jealous of people who received the ARC, everytime I saw someone make a teaser for this book, I was like why not me? After I read the book I realized that I had every right to be jealous.
This book is apsolutely amazing, from the beginning to the very end, but it has a slow build up in the story, which was was fine with me. What I really loved about this story is the detailed description of how Corwin and Hailee reunted after losing contact for ten years. All those moments of catching up, hanging out, and how they moved past friendship line, I fell in love with those moments. It really showed how their friendship started to rebuiled, it showed the strenght of their relationship as friends, partners and as lovers. My most favorite moments were the flashback.
Everything was going great at beginning of their new relationship, but slowly secrets started to come out and their solid relationship became rocky as hell. All is tested, their trust, their love even their friendship.
The beginnig we are introduced to Hailee Samuels who dreams about her high school crush almost every night. The moment they reunited, I was so happy for Hailee because I knew how much she loves him. I loved Corwin so much in the beginning, he was so sweet and such a perfect gentleman {every girls dream}. But as the time passes Corwin changes. You will start the there is something big he's holding back. And as he changed, I slowly lost my grip on him, I reallly didn't want to, but I had to. Because the way he acted pushed me away. Everytime he acted strange toward Hailee, he pushed me away. I know that he was protecting something, and I know that he was scared, but I think that he should have included Hailee, he was so selfish towards her. I really hate how he handled things, really much. He acted as something else was more important than Hailee, even though I knew he loved her with his entire being. All Hailee wanted when they started their relationship, was for the man from her dreams to love her the way he did in her dreams, and to love her as much as she loves him. I felt her pain everytime they fought, every ime she felt isolated and left out I felt her pain everytime her insecutities came to the surface, her insecurities were dragging her down, making her feel like she's not good enough for Corwin. She's been dreaming and pining for Corwin for the past ten years, wishing that some day she will meet him again, and this is what she gets, the hurt, the pain, she really didn't deserve that.
Not all relationship are perfect and I know that there will be time when love and trust will tested, but I couldn't understand how could Corwin hurt her so much.
I didn't like how in the end Corwin started messing up and isolating Hailee. I love how Hailee handled Corwin's every little mishaps, which made me love her so much. I didn't know in the end if I should love Corwin or hate him, which made me confused. I don't know how many second chances at love stories I have read, but I can tell you that this one is unique and so much different than any others. The build up and the flashbacks made me fall in love with the story.
This story ends on such a happy note, and I highly recommend it to all.
The book releases on October 20th but you can pre-order it on Amazon.
ARC provide for my blog for an honest review by the lovely author Stephanie Alba
At first I want to thank Stephanie for personally giving me a advanced reader copy, I have been jealous of people who received the ARC, everytime I saw someone make a teaser for this book, I was like why not me? After I read the book I realized that I had every right to be jealous.
This book is apsolutely amazing, from the beginning to the very end, but it has a slow build up in the story, which was was fine with me. What I really loved about this story is the detailed description of how Corwin and Hailee reunted after losing contact for ten years. All those moments of catching up, hanging out, and how they moved past friendship line, I fell in love with those moments. It really showed how their friendship started to rebuiled, it showed the strenght of their relationship as friends, partners and as lovers. My most favorite moments were the flashback.
Everything was going great at beginning of their new relationship, but slowly secrets started to come out and their solid relationship became rocky as hell. All is tested, their trust, their love even their friendship.
The beginnig we are introduced to Hailee Samuels who dreams about her high school crush almost every night. The moment they reunited, I was so happy for Hailee because I knew how much she loves him. I loved Corwin so much in the beginning, he was so sweet and such a perfect gentleman {every girls dream}. But as the time passes Corwin changes. You will start the there is something big he's holding back. And as he changed, I slowly lost my grip on him, I reallly didn't want to, but I had to. Because the way he acted pushed me away. Everytime he acted strange toward Hailee, he pushed me away. I know that he was protecting something, and I know that he was scared, but I think that he should have included Hailee, he was so selfish towards her. I really hate how he handled things, really much. He acted as something else was more important than Hailee, even though I knew he loved her with his entire being. All Hailee wanted when they started their relationship, was for the man from her dreams to love her the way he did in her dreams, and to love her as much as she loves him. I felt her pain everytime they fought, every ime she felt isolated and left out I felt her pain everytime her insecutities came to the surface, her insecurities were dragging her down, making her feel like she's not good enough for Corwin. She's been dreaming and pining for Corwin for the past ten years, wishing that some day she will meet him again, and this is what she gets, the hurt, the pain, she really didn't deserve that.
Not all relationship are perfect and I know that there will be time when love and trust will tested, but I couldn't understand how could Corwin hurt her so much.
I didn't like how in the end Corwin started messing up and isolating Hailee. I love how Hailee handled Corwin's every little mishaps, which made me love her so much. I didn't know in the end if I should love Corwin or hate him, which made me confused. I don't know how many second chances at love stories I have read, but I can tell you that this one is unique and so much different than any others. The build up and the flashbacks made me fall in love with the story.
This story ends on such a happy note, and I highly recommend it to all.
The book releases on October 20th but you can pre-order it on Amazon.
ARC provide for my blog for an honest review by the lovely author Stephanie Alba
November 8, 2015
Omg... This book... Where do I start.
First off...This book started of extremely slow... So slow.. I had to really push myself to keep reading. The way it was written... I wasn't really feeling it either.
In a way... It seemed kind of dated. Really old fashioned. I just didn't care for it.
Hailee had been having dreams of Corwin for years! 10 yeas to be exact! Building this guy up so high...
So when they run into each other at a farmers market...
Things started between them.
Just really... Really slow.
In the beginning of this book Hailee needed to open her mouth and just tell Corwin she has had a crush on him since high school.
And be done with it.
And Corwin need to man up and just tell Hailee that he has always liked her.
They both acted like young teenagers! It was so ridiculous!
The whole dancing around not telling each other how they felt went on way to long! Over 40%!
When they finally did cross the line...it didn't feel all warm and fuzzy. Then Corwin started acting weird...
Hailee kept sweeping it under the rug... She would question him... But never went full on with it. Or demand answers.
Now this part got to me. The first time they slept together... She saw he had tattoos. Not once did she ask him about it. They were dates.
If I was laying naked with my lover... I would ask him right away...
Why... Because I would want to know everything about the man I'm sleeping with. What made those dates so important to him to have him tattoo it onto him.
But Hailee... Just made a mental note to ask him later... And that was it... She never brought it up!
ughhh...irritating!
Also... The whole thanksgiving argument would have been a deal breaker too.
She clearly knew he was hiding something from her.
Once again... She swept it under the rug.
When we finally find out his big secret (he has a kid!) 70% in.
Omg... There was no way I would take him back! They were seeing each other for 3 months! That should have come up within the first month! And the fact that he kept it from her and used his family as an excuse all the times he wasn't with her...
That alone would be to much to let that all go!
Also too...
I'm sorry... When he flipped it to say she was keeping something from him...
I just about lost it.
He lied... Not her.
And another thing that bugged me...
Corwin is a lawyer. The mother of his child kept his daughter a secret from him for 3 years! For Corwin to tell Hailee that he had to abide by Lucy's strict rules about seeing his daughter... Was absolutely ludicrous!
If anything... He had the upper hand! And Lucy only saw it fit to bring his daughter into his life only after she heard he had a good job in a prestigious law firm!
Omg!
He was an idiot!
I would have respected Hailee more if she would have broken up with Corwin and just been friends with him. Being with someone else LIKE AIDEN!
But the fact that she forgave him then later broke up with him and promised she will still wait for him... And for him to take all the time he needed!
Just further confirmed this book was not for me at all.
I like strong MC. Hailee was not one of them.
It felt so wrong that they ended up together.
And you should not feel like that about a love story.
*ARC provided for an honest review*
First off...This book started of extremely slow... So slow.. I had to really push myself to keep reading. The way it was written... I wasn't really feeling it either.
In a way... It seemed kind of dated. Really old fashioned. I just didn't care for it.
Hailee had been having dreams of Corwin for years! 10 yeas to be exact! Building this guy up so high...
So when they run into each other at a farmers market...
Things started between them.
Just really... Really slow.
In the beginning of this book Hailee needed to open her mouth and just tell Corwin she has had a crush on him since high school.
And be done with it.
And Corwin need to man up and just tell Hailee that he has always liked her.
They both acted like young teenagers! It was so ridiculous!
The whole dancing around not telling each other how they felt went on way to long! Over 40%!
When they finally did cross the line...it didn't feel all warm and fuzzy. Then Corwin started acting weird...
Hailee kept sweeping it under the rug... She would question him... But never went full on with it. Or demand answers.
Now this part got to me. The first time they slept together... She saw he had tattoos. Not once did she ask him about it. They were dates.
If I was laying naked with my lover... I would ask him right away...
Why... Because I would want to know everything about the man I'm sleeping with. What made those dates so important to him to have him tattoo it onto him.
But Hailee... Just made a mental note to ask him later... And that was it... She never brought it up!
ughhh...irritating!
Also... The whole thanksgiving argument would have been a deal breaker too.
She clearly knew he was hiding something from her.
Once again... She swept it under the rug.
When we finally find out his big secret (he has a kid!) 70% in.
Omg... There was no way I would take him back! They were seeing each other for 3 months! That should have come up within the first month! And the fact that he kept it from her and used his family as an excuse all the times he wasn't with her...
That alone would be to much to let that all go!
Also too...
I'm sorry... When he flipped it to say she was keeping something from him...
I just about lost it.
He lied... Not her.
And another thing that bugged me...
Corwin is a lawyer. The mother of his child kept his daughter a secret from him for 3 years! For Corwin to tell Hailee that he had to abide by Lucy's strict rules about seeing his daughter... Was absolutely ludicrous!
If anything... He had the upper hand! And Lucy only saw it fit to bring his daughter into his life only after she heard he had a good job in a prestigious law firm!
Omg!
He was an idiot!
I would have respected Hailee more if she would have broken up with Corwin and just been friends with him. Being with someone else LIKE AIDEN!
But the fact that she forgave him then later broke up with him and promised she will still wait for him... And for him to take all the time he needed!
Just further confirmed this book was not for me at all.
I like strong MC. Hailee was not one of them.
It felt so wrong that they ended up together.
And you should not feel like that about a love story.
*ARC provided for an honest review*
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
November 3, 2015
This was so refreshing to read. It's a second chance, friends to lovers romance that is slow to start, slow to build, and slow to end.
But
don't take that to mean it's a horrible story.
Ten years is a really long time between people. Things have happened. Their lives have changed. They have changed. With so much ground to cover, I don't want an instalust/instalove story. I want something that will engage me, pull me into each character's life, make me feel like I'm there with them.
Corwin and Hailee were once high school friends. Hailee had the biggest crush on Corwin but couldn't bring herself to admit it. Instead, she sat back and watched the boy of her dreams date everyone else but her. Ten years later, they're reunited and it seems the attraction she felt for him then is still alive and well. They spend time getting reacquainted and explore the new/renewed feelings between them.
Their relationship wasn't sunshine and rose petals though. Corwin was holding back about something. At first it was subtle, hesitation at changing his weekend schedule, refusing to elaborate about that schedule. But then, as they grew closer together, I wondered at it. I hated how he pushed her away but not as much as him refusing to explain anything to her. It was cruel the way Hailee found out and I wished Corwin told her sooner that he was a father.
But sometimes things like that make people stronger, fight harder, live and love harder. The decision to separate was Hailee's idea but it was the push Corwin needed to really get the things he deserved. The month apart did wonders for him and he was able to share them with Hailee when they reconnected, which made a future together look so much brighter.
The beauty of this story isn't so much the romance or the happy ending but how Corwin and Hailee got there. From that farmer's market meeting to a baby on the way, they went through ups and downs that are familiar to some modern day couples. Yet they never gave up, even when it felt like they were. They never denounced their love for one another, even when it felt like nothing was reconcilable. Mistakes were made, apologies given, heartfelt promises to do better were sworn. It took a lot (and I do mean a lot) of work, time and patience for them to get their happy ending, but it was worth waiting for.
A great story that explores the workings of a relationship ten years waiting to happen. Pace aside, this really was a romance worth reading.
Received from IndieSage PR for an honest review
Ten years is a really long time between people. Things have happened. Their lives have changed. They have changed. With so much ground to cover, I don't want an instalust/instalove story. I want something that will engage me, pull me into each character's life, make me feel like I'm there with them.
Corwin and Hailee were once high school friends. Hailee had the biggest crush on Corwin but couldn't bring herself to admit it. Instead, she sat back and watched the boy of her dreams date everyone else but her. Ten years later, they're reunited and it seems the attraction she felt for him then is still alive and well. They spend time getting reacquainted and explore the new/renewed feelings between them.
Their relationship wasn't sunshine and rose petals though. Corwin was holding back about something. At first it was subtle, hesitation at changing his weekend schedule, refusing to elaborate about that schedule. But then, as they grew closer together, I wondered at it. I hated how he pushed her away but not as much as him refusing to explain anything to her. It was cruel the way Hailee found out and I wished Corwin told her sooner that he was a father.
But sometimes things like that make people stronger, fight harder, live and love harder. The decision to separate was Hailee's idea but it was the push Corwin needed to really get the things he deserved. The month apart did wonders for him and he was able to share them with Hailee when they reconnected, which made a future together look so much brighter.
The beauty of this story isn't so much the romance or the happy ending but how Corwin and Hailee got there. From that farmer's market meeting to a baby on the way, they went through ups and downs that are familiar to some modern day couples. Yet they never gave up, even when it felt like they were. They never denounced their love for one another, even when it felt like nothing was reconcilable. Mistakes were made, apologies given, heartfelt promises to do better were sworn. It took a lot (and I do mean a lot) of work, time and patience for them to get their happy ending, but it was worth waiting for.
A great story that explores the workings of a relationship ten years waiting to happen. Pace aside, this really was a romance worth reading.
Received from IndieSage PR for an honest review
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