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Thirty-Eight #5
With The First Goodbye
Bros before hoes or so the saying goes.
However, Maxwell Sheridan threw that saying out the window the minute he hooked up with his best friend, Alex’s, poisonous ex. The moment he slept with her, he was hooked. Sloppy seconds was not his style, but she was a cruel addiction he couldn’t overcome. He thought his days of betraying his best friends were behind him. But Max learnt the hard way that history had a way of repeating itself.
That was until one moment on a bridge would change it all.
Josephine Faulkner is struggling. Mentally, physically, and emotionally. Life has caused her to grow up. Gone are the wild days, black hair, and dating men her ambassador father would never approve of. But juggling work and life has meant that university hasn't been high on her priority list.
When Maxwell Sheridan finds her on a bridge, dropping small stones into the lake, a friendship and connection between them blooms.
He offers to tutor her.
She offers him her compassion.
But their undeniable attraction and friendship will be tested.
And her name…
Andrea Wallace.
COVER REVEAL COMING SOON
However, Maxwell Sheridan threw that saying out the window the minute he hooked up with his best friend, Alex’s, poisonous ex. The moment he slept with her, he was hooked. Sloppy seconds was not his style, but she was a cruel addiction he couldn’t overcome. He thought his days of betraying his best friends were behind him. But Max learnt the hard way that history had a way of repeating itself.
That was until one moment on a bridge would change it all.
Josephine Faulkner is struggling. Mentally, physically, and emotionally. Life has caused her to grow up. Gone are the wild days, black hair, and dating men her ambassador father would never approve of. But juggling work and life has meant that university hasn't been high on her priority list.
When Maxwell Sheridan finds her on a bridge, dropping small stones into the lake, a friendship and connection between them blooms.
He offers to tutor her.
She offers him her compassion.
But their undeniable attraction and friendship will be tested.
And her name…
Andrea Wallace.
COVER REVEAL COMING SOON
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About the author
Len Webster
34 books813 followersAvid English Breakfast tea sipper and romance author, Len Webster spends most of her days writing, saying good morning to her dogs with kisses or trying to explain how the internet renamed her to Leonard Webster.
The cities of the world might have inspired her, but her entire being is content and at home in a gorgeous, small pinned dot on the map of Melbourne, Australia where every beat, crack, and scar of her heart has influenced the way she tells her stories.
Away from the tea leaves and written words, Len can be found immersed in the food and culture of brand new cities on #TheLenFoodTour or forgetting that her framed Bachelor of Business and Commerce from Monash University still awaits its place on the hook on her wall—sorry, Mum!
FOLLOW LEN:
Facebook: @lennwebster
Twitter: @lennwebster
Instagram: @lennwebster
www.lenwebster.com
The cities of the world might have inspired her, but her entire being is content and at home in a gorgeous, small pinned dot on the map of Melbourne, Australia where every beat, crack, and scar of her heart has influenced the way she tells her stories.
Away from the tea leaves and written words, Len can be found immersed in the food and culture of brand new cities on #TheLenFoodTour or forgetting that her framed Bachelor of Business and Commerce from Monash University still awaits its place on the hook on her wall—sorry, Mum!
FOLLOW LEN:
Facebook: @lennwebster
Twitter: @lennwebster
Instagram: @lennwebster
www.lenwebster.com
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 43 reviews
January 27, 2018
I loved the references to the Gilmore Girls series.
I loved the heroine's roommate.
Our hero betrayed the trust of two of his best friends, first having sex with one's girlfriend and then kissing the girlfriend of another. How shameful of him.
He can not resist Sarah's advances and is still very attracted to Andrea. He looks like a disoriented cockroach who does not know where he's going! And the guilt for his behavior is consuming his soul.
Our heroine is facing her mother's terminal cancer, studying law school and being in love with a complicated guy. She also has abandonment and daddy issues. It's a very volatile mix.
Max professes eternal love for our heroine but shortly afterwards he is already scheduled to travel to Boston along with Andrea leaving our heroine behind. He put everything and everyone first than our heroine.
Our hero makes a bad decision that breaks the heart of our heroine and puts in check all the confidence she had in him.
I confess that I lost interest in the next book and I think two books are unnecessary. It's too much drama that ends up tiring the reader.
Another unfinished series for my list.
If anyone wants to tell me how the second book ends, feel free.
I loved the heroine's roommate.
Our hero betrayed the trust of two of his best friends, first having sex with one's girlfriend and then kissing the girlfriend of another. How shameful of him.
He can not resist Sarah's advances and is still very attracted to Andrea. He looks like a disoriented cockroach who does not know where he's going! And the guilt for his behavior is consuming his soul.
Our heroine is facing her mother's terminal cancer, studying law school and being in love with a complicated guy. She also has abandonment and daddy issues. It's a very volatile mix.
Max professes eternal love for our heroine but shortly afterwards he is already scheduled to travel to Boston along with Andrea leaving our heroine behind. He put everything and everyone first than our heroine.
Our hero makes a bad decision that breaks the heart of our heroine and puts in check all the confidence she had in him.
I confess that I lost interest in the next book and I think two books are unnecessary. It's too much drama that ends up tiring the reader.
Another unfinished series for my list.
If anyone wants to tell me how the second book ends, feel free.
Until one drunken night when Sarah had told him that she and Alex were over. It had been a lie. And for almost seven years, he had kept his deep, dark secret from seeing the light. Alex still didn’t know.
Until I met Andrea. The thought had Max wincing. Andrea Wallace had been the woman Noel had dated to try to get over Clara. It had been a stupid bet.
Having kept Sarah a secret all these years hurt, but keeping what he had with Andrea a secret was killing him alive.
He had betrayed Alex when he slept with his girlfriend, Sarah. And he had betrayed Noel when he had kissed Andrea.
Max had done a lot of bad things in his life, but sleeping with Sarah had been the worst. Trying to hook up with Andrea came close.
“Say it. Say you want me. Like you’ve always wanted me.” His heart thudded violently. Inside him, all his resolve broke into sharp fragments that embedded within him. “Fuck you, Sarah,” he growled. Then he grabbed her hips and slammed her back into the wall behind her. Sarah let out a moan at his forcefulness. “There you are,” she breathed and unzipped his pants.
“Have a great life, Sarah. You will never find someone who loves you as I did,” Max revealed and grasped the door handle. With a twist, he pulled it open and walked out of her apartment.
Sarah. Memories of when they were kids collided with the struggling beats of his heart. He thought he was clean of her. But the emerging pain that intensified throughout him was proof he wasn’t.
Sarah understood his personal life. Andrea understood his career. But Josie? Josie understood both.
“I watched the start of season four. I don’t want to be the Max to your Lorelai. I want to be Luke,” Max revealed. “Your Luke.”
The hope that radiated from seeing an email from her sickened him. She played and toyed with his emotions. She had left him a wreck.
he saw Andrea’s email waiting for him. Max’s breathing heaved as he noticed it was an email from her personal account and not her work address. A cold sweat blanketed him as he hovered the cursor over her name. His head told him to delete it. To forget her completely. But a small piece of his heart wanted closure.
“There’s not,” he said. Suddenly, his heart clenched in a pain he had never known. He had lied to her. It was the first. There was a but. And her name … Andrea Wallace.
Andrea. I made the mistake of letting you go. He was tempted. For a single moment, he fell back into his old ways and was tempted.
“What?” He shook his head. “Go and get closure, Max. She’s emailed you more than once in the past month, and you’ve kept that from me. Obviously, there are things left unsaid, and you deserve closure. And I don’t deserve just parts of your heart when I gave you all mine last night. So go.”
“I’m sorry,” he whispered. She didn’t believe him. He was selfish. So selfish. He had no idea what sorry was. “I have to go with her.” He was choosing Andrea. She hated him. So much.
He had insulted her. He had insulted her mother. But most importantly … He had insulted her love for him.
He left. Just like her father had done many times before. And just like her mother had. Her mother. Her warm, loving mother had left her.
“You ended us the morning I found out my mother’s cancer was terminal and she was put on life support,” she revealed.
Kiss me like you miss me when I’m with you.”
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
September 28, 2017
LOVE, it makes us do and say things that will ultimately affect the rest of our lives as well as others close to us.
Max and Josie's story had me consuming more chocolate and popcorn than I usually do. One moment I'm cringing, laughing and bawling then smiling like a fool.
I wanted Max to finally feel what it meant to be free of secrets and regrets. And Josie, how I wanted her to feel for once happy and not be afraid of what the future held for her.
Len Webster, you had my emotions all over the place and they were getting whiplashed!! Len you have a way of bringing words out to life that truly felt like I was right there with Max & Josie. That ending!!! Arghhhhh, I just can't!!!
This was such a breathtaking emotional book that has stayed with me. Be prepared to be blown away and fall in love wit Max & Josie! 5 Breathtaking Stars
Max and Josie's story had me consuming more chocolate and popcorn than I usually do. One moment I'm cringing, laughing and bawling then smiling like a fool.
I wanted Max to finally feel what it meant to be free of secrets and regrets. And Josie, how I wanted her to feel for once happy and not be afraid of what the future held for her.
Len Webster, you had my emotions all over the place and they were getting whiplashed!! Len you have a way of bringing words out to life that truly felt like I was right there with Max & Josie. That ending!!! Arghhhhh, I just can't!!!
This was such a breathtaking emotional book that has stayed with me. Be prepared to be blown away and fall in love wit Max & Josie! 5 Breathtaking Stars
September 27, 2017
The book title should have been a clue that I would cry and I did a lot I really wasn’t prepared for all the feels this book would give me.
I haven’t read the previous books in the series but I managed to follow the story but I will be going back to read them.
Maxwell made a mistake and he can’t let go of the guilt. Josephine has so much on her shoulders she’s struggling to live her life, family college friends there’s no time left for herself.
I really enjoyed this story but both main characters infuriated me no joke if they’d been in front of me I think I would have slapped them. They don’t talk to each other there are huge things going on and they don’t tell each other. aaaahhh
She didn’t tell him about ......
He just .......
I need book two ASAP
reviewed by Sweet Spot Sisterhood
I haven’t read the previous books in the series but I managed to follow the story but I will be going back to read them.
Maxwell made a mistake and he can’t let go of the guilt. Josephine has so much on her shoulders she’s struggling to live her life, family college friends there’s no time left for herself.
I really enjoyed this story but both main characters infuriated me no joke if they’d been in front of me I think I would have slapped them. They don’t talk to each other there are huge things going on and they don’t tell each other. aaaahhh
She didn’t tell him about ......
He just .......
I need book two ASAP
reviewed by Sweet Spot Sisterhood
October 10, 2017
I didn't even notice this was a part of a series and honestly the author did a great job and making it a stand alone. Well actually I can't say that because I'm dying for the book that comes after this. This story ripped me up. I don't know what I was expecting but it wasn't for my heart to hurt so badly. The chapters definitely needed to have some sense knocked into them and part of my emotional distress was over not being able to yell at them. But it was definitely a story that completely had my full attention. I can't wait for the next part of this story and will go back to read the first four books.
reviewed for Sweet Spot Sisterhood
reviewed for Sweet Spot Sisterhood
September 27, 2017
This was my first read by Len Webster and I loved it. With the First Goodbye is the first book in Maxwell and Josie’s story. And what a story it was! Emotional and heartbreaking.
Max is haunted by his past and decisions he has made. Though he has tried to move forward, his past always seems to catch up to him. He broke my heart. He felt so much guilt over his past.
Josie’s life has not been easy. She is drained, but is a caring and loyal person. Even with disappointment in her life, she remained strong, though careful with her heart.
When Max and Josie meet, they form a strong friendship. But friendship is all they need and want, or so they thought. As their friendship grows, Max begins to see a possible future. But both Josie and Max have been hurt in the past and were very guarded. When Max’s past returns, will they be able to survive or will it be goodbye?
This was a very emotional story that I devoured. That ending just about killed me! I cannot wait to read book two! In the meantime, I am going to go back and read the other books in the series. Though With the First Goodbye is a standalone within the series.
Read and reviewed for Sultry Sirens Book Blog.
Happy reading!
Max is haunted by his past and decisions he has made. Though he has tried to move forward, his past always seems to catch up to him. He broke my heart. He felt so much guilt over his past.
Josie’s life has not been easy. She is drained, but is a caring and loyal person. Even with disappointment in her life, she remained strong, though careful with her heart.
When Max and Josie meet, they form a strong friendship. But friendship is all they need and want, or so they thought. As their friendship grows, Max begins to see a possible future. But both Josie and Max have been hurt in the past and were very guarded. When Max’s past returns, will they be able to survive or will it be goodbye?
This was a very emotional story that I devoured. That ending just about killed me! I cannot wait to read book two! In the meantime, I am going to go back and read the other books in the series. Though With the First Goodbye is a standalone within the series.
Read and reviewed for Sultry Sirens Book Blog.
Happy reading!
May 18, 2020
I have read and loved The First Touch of Sunlight so when the opportunity came for this I was excited. All the excitement short-lived sadly, I didn't find this book as good as I thought it was going to be and I was honestly disappointed. I have had this book on my mind the more I think about it the more I dislike it.
Let's start with the characters, I didn't connect with any of them, except maybe Stella. I'll get to her later. So let's start with Max, he annoyed me so much. I could not see the attraction with him, and I was fine for the first few chapter and then whenever this guilt thing came up of being with two people his friends had been with, it drove me crazy. I couldn't stand it, just the way he went on and on and on and on, it would have been easier enough to say to his two friends, I banged your bird and I kissed one, especially as they were now in happy relationships but no he didn't. He kept it a secret even longer. His guilt was so annoying and kind of misplaced because most men just get over it when they are told things like that. It really drove me mental I couldn't stand it.
Josephine, now she wasn't awful so to speak but she fell in love with Max, well they both fell in love with each other, but anyway I liked her determination when it came to being in law school and just trying especially as her mother was going through cancer. But she wasn't honest with him either, she kept the fact her mother was ill to herself rather than sharing the burden with him. Like I don't understand how she can love him and yet not tell him. So that annoyed me with her.
Stella, I think she is the only one I liked and she wasn't even in it that much she was Josephine's rumour and she was so funny and I loved her character, I also loved her obsession with Gilmore Girls, like I'm with you girl.
I'm really sad that I didn't like this story as I say it had its good points but I just I didn't like it very much and honestly the plot didn't really keep me that much invested like I don't think I could care what will happen to the characters. I'm going to read the 2nd book of Max and Josephine and hope it is better than this one.
Let's start with the characters, I didn't connect with any of them, except maybe Stella. I'll get to her later. So let's start with Max, he annoyed me so much. I could not see the attraction with him, and I was fine for the first few chapter and then whenever this guilt thing came up of being with two people his friends had been with, it drove me crazy. I couldn't stand it, just the way he went on and on and on and on, it would have been easier enough to say to his two friends, I banged your bird and I kissed one, especially as they were now in happy relationships but no he didn't. He kept it a secret even longer. His guilt was so annoying and kind of misplaced because most men just get over it when they are told things like that. It really drove me mental I couldn't stand it.
Josephine, now she wasn't awful so to speak but she fell in love with Max, well they both fell in love with each other, but anyway I liked her determination when it came to being in law school and just trying especially as her mother was going through cancer. But she wasn't honest with him either, she kept the fact her mother was ill to herself rather than sharing the burden with him. Like I don't understand how she can love him and yet not tell him. So that annoyed me with her.
Stella, I think she is the only one I liked and she wasn't even in it that much she was Josephine's rumour and she was so funny and I loved her character, I also loved her obsession with Gilmore Girls, like I'm with you girl.
I'm really sad that I didn't like this story as I say it had its good points but I just I didn't like it very much and honestly the plot didn't really keep me that much invested like I don't think I could care what will happen to the characters. I'm going to read the 2nd book of Max and Josephine and hope it is better than this one.
September 25, 2017
🌟 5 La Vie En Rose Stars! 🌟
Oh my lord.
This story is perfection and I am pacing a hole in my room for the second part to come out. I usually preferred reading standalone for contemporary romance novels but Len Webster has managed to convert me into a serial romance reader and I'm killing it now!
So many emotions coursing through my heart right now that I'm rendered speechless, therefore I'm going to take the time off to ponder about what to do next in life. Yeap, it was that KIND of book. *cries in a corner while waiting for book 2*
Maxwell made a lot of bad decisions when it comes to women but all he ever wanted was to find true love, he just didn't know how. Until Josephine Faulkner appeared and did the unthinkable, she brought him back to life. As their relationship grew and Max is moving on with his life, a blast from the past threatens to destroy his future and the one woman he loves. Will love prevail?
The writing was beautiful as the author walked us through each of Max's heartbreak and how each relationship has affected him in more ways than one. I adore Josie for being a big-hearted woman who loved fiercely and passionately. Their romance was a slow burn yet igniting everything that stood in between.
I can't wait for book 2 especially after that cliffhanger ending! I am desperate for more of Max and Josie, and to know how their story would end.
I am officially a hardcore Len Webster fan.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an ARC of this book provided by LWoodsPR and the author. Thank you so much for the reviewing opportunity!
Oh my lord.
This story is perfection and I am pacing a hole in my room for the second part to come out. I usually preferred reading standalone for contemporary romance novels but Len Webster has managed to convert me into a serial romance reader and I'm killing it now!
So many emotions coursing through my heart right now that I'm rendered speechless, therefore I'm going to take the time off to ponder about what to do next in life. Yeap, it was that KIND of book. *cries in a corner while waiting for book 2*
Maxwell made a lot of bad decisions when it comes to women but all he ever wanted was to find true love, he just didn't know how. Until Josephine Faulkner appeared and did the unthinkable, she brought him back to life. As their relationship grew and Max is moving on with his life, a blast from the past threatens to destroy his future and the one woman he loves. Will love prevail?
The writing was beautiful as the author walked us through each of Max's heartbreak and how each relationship has affected him in more ways than one. I adore Josie for being a big-hearted woman who loved fiercely and passionately. Their romance was a slow burn yet igniting everything that stood in between.
I can't wait for book 2 especially after that cliffhanger ending! I am desperate for more of Max and Josie, and to know how their story would end.
I am officially a hardcore Len Webster fan.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an ARC of this book provided by LWoodsPR and the author. Thank you so much for the reviewing opportunity!
September 24, 2017
One of my top favorite books that was worth the wait!
I waited over a year and a half to get my hands on this baby and it was worth the wait! I'm a picky reader and like to nitpick at things here and there, but not with this book; It met my expectations and so much more. I FLOVED it and didn't want it to end.
With The First Goodbye is the sixth book in the Thirty-Eight series. Although it could be read as a standalone, I would recommend you start from the beginning to get a better background of all the characters and avoid a lot of spoilers as it's an interconnected series.
If you've read the previous books, then you know Maxwell Sheridan harbors guilt, secrets and regrets for not making the best decisions when it came to his love life. He had been pursuing the wrong women, until he met Josephine Faulkner.
Josie was used to being disappointed and abandoned, but had a pure heart. Both had insecurities due to having a life full of rejections and they didn't want to get risk getting hurt again, but there was a connection they both couldn't deny.
Although this book is lengthy, it's in no way boring; It is a slow burn type of book filled with sweet love. You get to see both Max and Josie fall in love and overcome some of their obstacles, but not all because it ends in a cliffy! I'm not mad though ;) I'm actually very excited and dying for the conclusion of Max and Josie's story. Can't wait for With The Last Goodbye!
I waited over a year and a half to get my hands on this baby and it was worth the wait! I'm a picky reader and like to nitpick at things here and there, but not with this book; It met my expectations and so much more. I FLOVED it and didn't want it to end.
With The First Goodbye is the sixth book in the Thirty-Eight series. Although it could be read as a standalone, I would recommend you start from the beginning to get a better background of all the characters and avoid a lot of spoilers as it's an interconnected series.
If you've read the previous books, then you know Maxwell Sheridan harbors guilt, secrets and regrets for not making the best decisions when it came to his love life. He had been pursuing the wrong women, until he met Josephine Faulkner.
Josie was used to being disappointed and abandoned, but had a pure heart. Both had insecurities due to having a life full of rejections and they didn't want to get risk getting hurt again, but there was a connection they both couldn't deny.
Although this book is lengthy, it's in no way boring; It is a slow burn type of book filled with sweet love. You get to see both Max and Josie fall in love and overcome some of their obstacles, but not all because it ends in a cliffy! I'm not mad though ;) I'm actually very excited and dying for the conclusion of Max and Josie's story. Can't wait for With The Last Goodbye!
October 3, 2017
What a story! This was my first Len Webster book and it will certainly not be my last. With that being said p, again I played Russian Roulette with starting in the middle of a series and won! This for sure can be read as a stand alone, but I recommend reading this before the next installment.
The first Goodbye is a story two people that have found each other when they needed someone the most. This story grabs you from word one. It's an amazing tale of how you can always escape your past, but sometimes you must conquer it in order to gain control of your future.
Max Sheridan has been looking for love in all the wrong place, but when he came across Joe one night during his friends wedding he instantly knew he found exactly what he was looking for, his everything. Unfortunately for him his past has a way of come back to haunt him. Will he be able to correct the wrongs he has done in life to ensure he is able to get his happily ever after?
Joe isn't looking for love when she begins talking to Max. She knows he is need of something, a friend. However as time goes on she begins to understand that what Max needs most in the world is her unconditional love. When she is finally able to let all her walls down and let him in, he heart is shattered. His past transgressions come to destroy any chance they have at happily ever after.
Although the book does begin to slow down for me in the middle, it is a great story of two people that are able to find themselves by being friends with the other. I love that Webster doesn't have these two jump directly into a relationship, but ensures they both have a solid foundation as individuals before they become a couple. I personally cannot wait for the next installment to see what Webster has in store for this couple.
*** I have received this ARC in exchange for an honest review ***
The first Goodbye is a story two people that have found each other when they needed someone the most. This story grabs you from word one. It's an amazing tale of how you can always escape your past, but sometimes you must conquer it in order to gain control of your future.
Max Sheridan has been looking for love in all the wrong place, but when he came across Joe one night during his friends wedding he instantly knew he found exactly what he was looking for, his everything. Unfortunately for him his past has a way of come back to haunt him. Will he be able to correct the wrongs he has done in life to ensure he is able to get his happily ever after?
Joe isn't looking for love when she begins talking to Max. She knows he is need of something, a friend. However as time goes on she begins to understand that what Max needs most in the world is her unconditional love. When she is finally able to let all her walls down and let him in, he heart is shattered. His past transgressions come to destroy any chance they have at happily ever after.
Although the book does begin to slow down for me in the middle, it is a great story of two people that are able to find themselves by being friends with the other. I love that Webster doesn't have these two jump directly into a relationship, but ensures they both have a solid foundation as individuals before they become a couple. I personally cannot wait for the next installment to see what Webster has in store for this couple.
*** I have received this ARC in exchange for an honest review ***
September 25, 2017
Heartbreakingly beautiful....
For most of the book I was kinda in limbo. One hand I was totally loving it and the next hand kinda confused. For a standalone I feel cheated because I haven't read the other books in the series. Is it a standalone? Yes.... I guess but I got lost several times when other characters were brought up and their stories. There was actually a lot of that and yes I am going to go back and read their stories because I loved everything I've learned about these people. It is actually full of great characters and the author has you definitely pulled me in and has me very intrigued. It is part of a duet and with the ending of this first book I'm screaming for more. I have to know what happens next, I didn't get enough and I really did like it. This is my first book by this author, I loved her writing and the way she told her story.
For most of the book I was kinda in limbo. One hand I was totally loving it and the next hand kinda confused. For a standalone I feel cheated because I haven't read the other books in the series. Is it a standalone? Yes.... I guess but I got lost several times when other characters were brought up and their stories. There was actually a lot of that and yes I am going to go back and read their stories because I loved everything I've learned about these people. It is actually full of great characters and the author has you definitely pulled me in and has me very intrigued. It is part of a duet and with the ending of this first book I'm screaming for more. I have to know what happens next, I didn't get enough and I really did like it. This is my first book by this author, I loved her writing and the way she told her story.
September 28, 2017
Heart-wrenching, complex, emotional and beautiful love story between two broken people that believe and are looking for true love.
Since he was a little boy Maxwell Sheridan was caring and loving. As he grew up, the only thing he wanted was to love somebody until his very last breath and to this same person to love him bac. He thought he found his true love two times in the past. Not only this women were bad for him but also made him betrayed his best friends. He didn’t want to be someone revenge plan or regret, he wanted to be loved. He thought his love life was destined to be ruined until he met Josie.
“She made him better. She accepted and understood the wrongs of his past.”
On the other hand, Josie is also broken. Problems with her father since she was eight years old change the way she acted as she grew older. Now when tragedy has knock down her door and enter her life, Josie is determined to get her life in order and make things right. She is studying law school and working, but with such little time for her to enjoy, the only thing in her mind is her mother and finishing university. Her grades are not good and everything that surrounds her seems coming downhill, until she meets Max and he offers to tutor her. Together they find a path that will heal their broken past.
“No, Josie. You gotta trust that not every man will let you down. Some will, and some won’t. I’ve done a lot of that. I was that guy. I might still be that guy,” he confessed. Then he reached over and grasped her left hand in his. “I just don’t want to disappoint anyone anymore. And if you’d let me be honest for a single moment, you’d know you’re the person I’m scared to let down the most.”
I really loved this book. I liked how it all started as a friendship. She was the only one that understand him.
“You don’t have to be afraid to be who you are around me. There’s no shame in the man who you are. I quite like Maxwell Sheridan. Nothing I have learnt about you has changed how I look at you. I’m honoured you trust me enough to reveal parts of yourself that you haven’t before.”
Their connection is undeniable. Both of them are heartbreaking beautiful. You can feel the raw emotions every time they spoke to each other. You can feel the emotions all through your body as you read each word. But not everything in this love story is color of roses. Max has someone in his past that will put their relationship in perspective and maybe turn them.
If you have read a book by Len Webster before or maybe not you need to know that her books are filled with heartbreaking and emotional moments. The book are filled with angst but at the very end everything is beautiful, the path is rocky but as you climb to the top you can see the real true meaning a magnificent love story. Max and Josie are far from perfect but together they are amazing. He is not your typical alpha male and she is not the damsel in distress but their story is unique and worth reading.
This is the first book in the story. Even though this is the fifth book in the series you can read the story even if you haven’t read the previous books. Every previous book tells the story of a different couple. You have to keep in mind this book is left in a cliffhanger. I can´t wait for the next one.
I really recommend this book to everyone that is looking for a emotional but profound. This also has references to the Gilmore Girls and the Vie en Rose which made the read even more perfect. I hope you enjoyed it like I did. When you read it this lyrics will make more sense and love this precious song even more than you did.
“Hold me close and hold me fast
The magic spell you cast
This is la vie en rose
When you kiss me, Heaven sighs
And though I close my eyes
I see la vie en rose
When you press me to your heart
I’m in a world apart
A world where roses bloom
And when you speak
Angels sing from above
Every day words
Seem to turn into love songs
Give your heart and soul to me
And life will always be
La vie en rose”
Since he was a little boy Maxwell Sheridan was caring and loving. As he grew up, the only thing he wanted was to love somebody until his very last breath and to this same person to love him bac. He thought he found his true love two times in the past. Not only this women were bad for him but also made him betrayed his best friends. He didn’t want to be someone revenge plan or regret, he wanted to be loved. He thought his love life was destined to be ruined until he met Josie.
“She made him better. She accepted and understood the wrongs of his past.”
On the other hand, Josie is also broken. Problems with her father since she was eight years old change the way she acted as she grew older. Now when tragedy has knock down her door and enter her life, Josie is determined to get her life in order and make things right. She is studying law school and working, but with such little time for her to enjoy, the only thing in her mind is her mother and finishing university. Her grades are not good and everything that surrounds her seems coming downhill, until she meets Max and he offers to tutor her. Together they find a path that will heal their broken past.
“No, Josie. You gotta trust that not every man will let you down. Some will, and some won’t. I’ve done a lot of that. I was that guy. I might still be that guy,” he confessed. Then he reached over and grasped her left hand in his. “I just don’t want to disappoint anyone anymore. And if you’d let me be honest for a single moment, you’d know you’re the person I’m scared to let down the most.”
I really loved this book. I liked how it all started as a friendship. She was the only one that understand him.
“You don’t have to be afraid to be who you are around me. There’s no shame in the man who you are. I quite like Maxwell Sheridan. Nothing I have learnt about you has changed how I look at you. I’m honoured you trust me enough to reveal parts of yourself that you haven’t before.”
Their connection is undeniable. Both of them are heartbreaking beautiful. You can feel the raw emotions every time they spoke to each other. You can feel the emotions all through your body as you read each word. But not everything in this love story is color of roses. Max has someone in his past that will put their relationship in perspective and maybe turn them.
If you have read a book by Len Webster before or maybe not you need to know that her books are filled with heartbreaking and emotional moments. The book are filled with angst but at the very end everything is beautiful, the path is rocky but as you climb to the top you can see the real true meaning a magnificent love story. Max and Josie are far from perfect but together they are amazing. He is not your typical alpha male and she is not the damsel in distress but their story is unique and worth reading.
This is the first book in the story. Even though this is the fifth book in the series you can read the story even if you haven’t read the previous books. Every previous book tells the story of a different couple. You have to keep in mind this book is left in a cliffhanger. I can´t wait for the next one.
I really recommend this book to everyone that is looking for a emotional but profound. This also has references to the Gilmore Girls and the Vie en Rose which made the read even more perfect. I hope you enjoyed it like I did. When you read it this lyrics will make more sense and love this precious song even more than you did.
“Hold me close and hold me fast
The magic spell you cast
This is la vie en rose
When you kiss me, Heaven sighs
And though I close my eyes
I see la vie en rose
When you press me to your heart
I’m in a world apart
A world where roses bloom
And when you speak
Angels sing from above
Every day words
Seem to turn into love songs
Give your heart and soul to me
And life will always be
La vie en rose”
September 18, 2017
What four letter word is associated with both weakness and strength and can empower as easily as it can destroy? That tricky dichotomy known as LOVE! When it comes to love there is no logic, because love is based on emotion, not state of mind. With the First Goodbye takes a look at both sides of the scenario. Len Webster turns a tragic chain of events into an inspiring tale of hindsight and heartache. Maxwell has experienced love at it's most toxic and is learning what pure love really feels like. Will his happy ending pay the price for his past indiscretions? Josephine and Max teeter on the the brink of forever and never. Which will they choose?
October 2, 2017
I have been a fan of this series since the beginning so I knew how both beautiful and heartbreaking With The First Goodbye would be. Max and Josie form a connection from the start. Max is fighting with things that he has done in his past. Josie keeps being disappointed by her father as well as having to be there for her Mom's health battle. Max and Josie become friends and from there become more. The ending is heartbreaking with a cliffhanger. Although With The First Goodbye is apart of The Thirty Eight Series it can be read as a stand alone. I highly recommend this book!
September 25, 2017
Wow just wow talk about book hangover With the first goodbye it really drew me in while crushing my heart . There was no sleep for me and then once I got to the end it took me an hour to find a restless sleep just WOW . AHHHH the ending THE ENDING that's all you guys are getting I can't say much more just be prepared . definite must copy provided for honest review .
December 18, 2017
I just knew I would love Max's book.
I can't wait for his next book❤❤
I can't wait for his next book❤❤
September 22, 2017
I thought I could do it...I thought I would make it through the whole book without tears but I was wrong. It started when the title finally clicked. With The First Goodbye...
I'm a newbie to this series. I didn't even realize it was book 5. You can still read, enjoy, and love the characters without reading 1-4 but it would strengthen the bonds between characters and yourself.
It starts with a wedding and ends at an engagement party. Seems like everyone around them is happy. Yet, both Josephine and Maxwell are outside of the party. One simple encounter changes them both...
It's sweet, conflicted, and all sorts of sigh inducing. The kick in the butt though...you need more. Lots more...a whole other book more. I feel 3/4 empty without...well you will see.
I am eager for With The Last Goodbye but also hesitant because I need to to be everything I want and more.
reviewed for Naughty Book Blog
I'm a newbie to this series. I didn't even realize it was book 5. You can still read, enjoy, and love the characters without reading 1-4 but it would strengthen the bonds between characters and yourself.
It starts with a wedding and ends at an engagement party. Seems like everyone around them is happy. Yet, both Josephine and Maxwell are outside of the party. One simple encounter changes them both...
It's sweet, conflicted, and all sorts of sigh inducing. The kick in the butt though...you need more. Lots more...a whole other book more. I feel 3/4 empty without...well you will see.
I am eager for With The Last Goodbye but also hesitant because I need to to be everything I want and more.
reviewed for Naughty Book Blog
February 3, 2018
This breaks my heart. I almost never give 2 star reviews let alone 1. But in order for me to be honest with myself and my fellow readers, I must be true to my opinion.
Let me start with what worked. I loved how focused and driven both were in regard to her education and his work. I enjoyed the easy friendship that Max and Josie developed. It was especially nice to witness them find like-minded and equally broken people within each other and provide support they obviously didn't feel they could get from their other relationships. They finally had someone to understand and accept them. I also liked Josie and Max's friends. They were the voices of reason and provided great advice to the main characters, even though they rarely listened.
I thought the storyline was decent, but it needed a lot of cutting. I believe this duet could have been one book with a lot less angst and internal monologues. I got bored with all the superfluous information and self-deprecating attitudes by Max and Josie. At first, Max came off as a bit of a douche. He obviously had a history of poaching his friends’ girls, even if they weren’t in good relationships. And what was worse is that the boyfriends weren’t aware while some of his other friends knew. It definitely made things awkward. Thankfully, Max was able to redeem himself in my eyes after some time with the care he showed Josie. However, Max’s misplaced and unending guilt related to his past indiscretions became redundant and beyond annoying. I just wanted him to fess up and dump the burden! And Josie was especially frustrating with her need to hide everything. No doubt her roommate and life-long friend, Stella, had it right that she’s self-destructive. I couldn’t understand why she kept her mother’s illness from her friends and instructors. It all increased her stress and added to her inability to fully engage in relationships with others. These characters acted more like teenagers than well-educated 20 somethings.
I honestly didn’t want to continue reading after only a quarter of the book. At that point, I started skimming to the pertinent parts. But once we moved into the last third of the book and they started to open up more, I thought we were finally getting somewhere. Boy was I wrong. Max and Josie could never move beyond all their baggage and accept the love they had for one another. In the end, I was left angry and screaming in frustration. I can honestly say that if I wasn't reading this duet as an advanced copy, I would have stopped completely. I had no desire to continue on to the conclusion of their tragic tale.
Side note: I got a little overwhelmed at the start with the number of acquaintances. All these names and relationships were thrown out, and I felt lost and disconnected. I know this book is part of a larger series, so maybe if I’d read the others first, I might have had a clue and been better able to understand the dynamics and relationships. Luckily, I was able to get them straight in the end.
I voluntarily reviewed an Advance Readers Copy of this book.
Let me start with what worked. I loved how focused and driven both were in regard to her education and his work. I enjoyed the easy friendship that Max and Josie developed. It was especially nice to witness them find like-minded and equally broken people within each other and provide support they obviously didn't feel they could get from their other relationships. They finally had someone to understand and accept them. I also liked Josie and Max's friends. They were the voices of reason and provided great advice to the main characters, even though they rarely listened.
I thought the storyline was decent, but it needed a lot of cutting. I believe this duet could have been one book with a lot less angst and internal monologues. I got bored with all the superfluous information and self-deprecating attitudes by Max and Josie. At first, Max came off as a bit of a douche. He obviously had a history of poaching his friends’ girls, even if they weren’t in good relationships. And what was worse is that the boyfriends weren’t aware while some of his other friends knew. It definitely made things awkward. Thankfully, Max was able to redeem himself in my eyes after some time with the care he showed Josie. However, Max’s misplaced and unending guilt related to his past indiscretions became redundant and beyond annoying. I just wanted him to fess up and dump the burden! And Josie was especially frustrating with her need to hide everything. No doubt her roommate and life-long friend, Stella, had it right that she’s self-destructive. I couldn’t understand why she kept her mother’s illness from her friends and instructors. It all increased her stress and added to her inability to fully engage in relationships with others. These characters acted more like teenagers than well-educated 20 somethings.
I honestly didn’t want to continue reading after only a quarter of the book. At that point, I started skimming to the pertinent parts. But once we moved into the last third of the book and they started to open up more, I thought we were finally getting somewhere. Boy was I wrong. Max and Josie could never move beyond all their baggage and accept the love they had for one another. In the end, I was left angry and screaming in frustration. I can honestly say that if I wasn't reading this duet as an advanced copy, I would have stopped completely. I had no desire to continue on to the conclusion of their tragic tale.
Side note: I got a little overwhelmed at the start with the number of acquaintances. All these names and relationships were thrown out, and I felt lost and disconnected. I know this book is part of a larger series, so maybe if I’d read the others first, I might have had a clue and been better able to understand the dynamics and relationships. Luckily, I was able to get them straight in the end.
I voluntarily reviewed an Advance Readers Copy of this book.
September 29, 2017
5 HONEY stars! This is a sweet book that will melt your heart. Be prepared for one of the best friends to lovers romance!
Dear Lord! I still taste the sweetness after reading this book. My soul is over the moon. I do not consider myself as a romantic girl but this book made me reconsider it. Who wants hearts and flowers? Women, they do and men rarely want them. I could be wrong but there are few men who really want a serious relationship. However there are some exceptions.
I shall say that this is the first time I read something from Len_Webster. Her writing was classy and proper. With the First Goodbye melted my heart. She delivered a beautiful and heart-warming story with amazing characters that will steal a piece of you.
The author gift us a man who is consumed by guilt and despite of his mistakes, he wants to find the woman capable of warm his heart and soul. Those mistakes are eating him alive and the only way he could find love is by healing every wound of his soul. Maxwell is just a man who wants love. The same kind of love that his best friends found.
Sometimes our mistakes are so big that you think you do not deserve redemption. We are human so we make mistake. It is in our nature. We are not perfect machines and less when feelings are involved. This is something that Max will learn with the help of Josephine. She will change his life like a sweet tornado.
At first sight Josephine seems a delicate woman but as you carry on reading you will discover a strong heroine. She only has her mother and her best friend Stella. She is a smart student. And as every woman, she has dreams. She has worked so hard to become a good lawyer and nothing will stop her. Not even her father issues. Because of her father she feels abandoned and she does not trust men easily.
Meeting Max will be bittersweet. They will start as friends but fate has other plans for them. Can friends become lovers? Yes, can lovers become friends? No. It is simply as mathematics. Josie will heal Max’s wounds and Max will make Josie stronger and confident. Everyone around them see the attraction and devotion that their eyes express when they are together. They are perfect for each other.
I highly recommend you this book. It is perfect for those who are romantic. This is one of those books that are good when it is rainy outside. Rainy days make the perfect scene for this book. Rain will wash the mistakes and give redemption for those who need it.
(ARC courtesy of author in exchange for an honest review)
Dear Lord! I still taste the sweetness after reading this book. My soul is over the moon. I do not consider myself as a romantic girl but this book made me reconsider it. Who wants hearts and flowers? Women, they do and men rarely want them. I could be wrong but there are few men who really want a serious relationship. However there are some exceptions.
I shall say that this is the first time I read something from Len_Webster. Her writing was classy and proper. With the First Goodbye melted my heart. She delivered a beautiful and heart-warming story with amazing characters that will steal a piece of you.
The author gift us a man who is consumed by guilt and despite of his mistakes, he wants to find the woman capable of warm his heart and soul. Those mistakes are eating him alive and the only way he could find love is by healing every wound of his soul. Maxwell is just a man who wants love. The same kind of love that his best friends found.
“One action affected the other. The ripple effect. Life’s cruel tricks. One mistake led to another and then another.”
Sometimes our mistakes are so big that you think you do not deserve redemption. We are human so we make mistake. It is in our nature. We are not perfect machines and less when feelings are involved. This is something that Max will learn with the help of Josephine. She will change his life like a sweet tornado.
“You have no idea what really meeting you has done to my life. You better it. You made me look at myself and realise I made poor choices”
At first sight Josephine seems a delicate woman but as you carry on reading you will discover a strong heroine. She only has her mother and her best friend Stella. She is a smart student. And as every woman, she has dreams. She has worked so hard to become a good lawyer and nothing will stop her. Not even her father issues. Because of her father she feels abandoned and she does not trust men easily.
“I’m not someone’s first choice, Stella. I will never...”
Meeting Max will be bittersweet. They will start as friends but fate has other plans for them. Can friends become lovers? Yes, can lovers become friends? No. It is simply as mathematics. Josie will heal Max’s wounds and Max will make Josie stronger and confident. Everyone around them see the attraction and devotion that their eyes express when they are together. They are perfect for each other.
“You and your words don’t play fair.”
I highly recommend you this book. It is perfect for those who are romantic. This is one of those books that are good when it is rainy outside. Rainy days make the perfect scene for this book. Rain will wash the mistakes and give redemption for those who need it.
(ARC courtesy of author in exchange for an honest review)
September 27, 2017
The First Goodbye is book #5 in the Thirty-Eight Series by Australian author Len Webster. I wished I’d known it was the fifth book in a series, the only thing I knew about the book was the blurb I read, and I was totally thrown off by the number of characters in the story and I really felt so confused trying to keep up with who they were. Honestly, at one point, I was so frustrated that I wondered whether to continue reading. This is definitely not a Standalone. Once I got into the story it all became easier to follow and I really liked it, except for the ending, due to a pet peeve of mine. I’ll post what some consider (I don’t) a spoiler alert, at the end of this review.
Josephine “Josie” Faulkner and Maxwell Sheridan meet and feel a connection at their best friend’s wedding. Both of them have some personal baggage that have kept them from having serious relationships in the past. Josie tells Max she’s available, if he needs someone to talk to, as a friend. Josie’s a law student, about to graduate, and Max is a lawyer working at the most prestigious law firm, owned by his dad, so he offers her tutoring should she need it. With constant reminders that they’re friends, and nothing more, it soon becomes obvious there’s more than just a friendship.
“You gotta trust that not every man will let you down. Some will, and some won’t. I’ve done a lot of that. I was that guy. I might still be that guy. I just don’t want to disappoint anyone anymore. And if you’d let me be honest for a single moment, you’d know you’re the person I’m scared to let down the most.”
Yes, Max has been that guy. He’s done some things he’s really ashamed of. Josie is going through some very serious issues, too. I was cheering for both of them, hoping there wouldn’t be any more heartache for them. This is a very slow burn story, there’s no action until the last 85% of the story, but it’s a good build up for those of us who love Slow-Burn.
Just something that bothered me while readig: I didn’t like the “hit-us-over-the-head” reminder that they were friends, and ONLY friends. After a few dozen times, it becomes overkill. I actually counted the times the word “friend/friends/friendly/friendship” was used to describe them (because it was kinda annoying me) and it was fifty-four times (I may have missed a few)! The redeeming factor that made me overlook it was the references to the TV show, The Gilmore Girls! Any book that can include the characters in that show, to describe the principle characters in the story, is one I want to read!
Okay, here’s the ******Spoiler****** I mentioned at the beginning: It ends in a cliffhanger!
Josephine “Josie” Faulkner and Maxwell Sheridan meet and feel a connection at their best friend’s wedding. Both of them have some personal baggage that have kept them from having serious relationships in the past. Josie tells Max she’s available, if he needs someone to talk to, as a friend. Josie’s a law student, about to graduate, and Max is a lawyer working at the most prestigious law firm, owned by his dad, so he offers her tutoring should she need it. With constant reminders that they’re friends, and nothing more, it soon becomes obvious there’s more than just a friendship.
“You gotta trust that not every man will let you down. Some will, and some won’t. I’ve done a lot of that. I was that guy. I might still be that guy. I just don’t want to disappoint anyone anymore. And if you’d let me be honest for a single moment, you’d know you’re the person I’m scared to let down the most.”
Yes, Max has been that guy. He’s done some things he’s really ashamed of. Josie is going through some very serious issues, too. I was cheering for both of them, hoping there wouldn’t be any more heartache for them. This is a very slow burn story, there’s no action until the last 85% of the story, but it’s a good build up for those of us who love Slow-Burn.
Just something that bothered me while readig: I didn’t like the “hit-us-over-the-head” reminder that they were friends, and ONLY friends. After a few dozen times, it becomes overkill. I actually counted the times the word “friend/friends/friendly/friendship” was used to describe them (because it was kinda annoying me) and it was fifty-four times (I may have missed a few)! The redeeming factor that made me overlook it was the references to the TV show, The Gilmore Girls! Any book that can include the characters in that show, to describe the principle characters in the story, is one I want to read!
Okay, here’s the ******Spoiler****** I mentioned at the beginning: It ends in a cliffhanger!
September 27, 2017
With the first Goodbye is the fifth book by Thirty-Eight series by Len Webster, but this is the first book I’ve read from the author and the experience was really positive, for being a standalone book inside a series, the author had the responsibility to situate us, in the begin seems confused, a lot of characters, but as long as you’re reading, the reading develop so well that you have the full idea what she’s talking about.
The story hinges on Maxwell Sheridan, a lawyer who works hard for his success. Has many friends and betrayed some. Bros before hoes or so the saying goes, right? But Max isn’t that so evil, he just let himself go, and the girls who stayed with him, wanted to be, so there’s not guilty. It was the heat of the moment!
But a wedding party by his friends comes up in the beginning and a character shows up, Josephine Faulkner, a mutual friend by his friends and a law student. And from there, they create and grow a beautiful friendship that later, in their need from each other, take them for love.
A story really well written that got me stuck in reading and in the characters. The ending is amazing and I'm still scared The next book is With the last Goodbye will chart another great story that can put Max and Josephine's love to the test.
A light novel, intense, genuine and pure. For many times I thought I was reading a regency novel by the tone guided in the book. If you know Luke and Lorelai (yep, Gilmore Girls detected!) you know exactly what I’m talking about.
Len Webster’s writing follows the same line that her story. A beautiful writing, with slight Australian slangs that glows the iD of the author. Is a huge recommendation!
PS: This book is my La Vie En Rose
The story hinges on Maxwell Sheridan, a lawyer who works hard for his success. Has many friends and betrayed some. Bros before hoes or so the saying goes, right? But Max isn’t that so evil, he just let himself go, and the girls who stayed with him, wanted to be, so there’s not guilty. It was the heat of the moment!
But a wedding party by his friends comes up in the beginning and a character shows up, Josephine Faulkner, a mutual friend by his friends and a law student. And from there, they create and grow a beautiful friendship that later, in their need from each other, take them for love.
A story really well written that got me stuck in reading and in the characters. The ending is amazing and I'm still scared The next book is With the last Goodbye will chart another great story that can put Max and Josephine's love to the test.
A light novel, intense, genuine and pure. For many times I thought I was reading a regency novel by the tone guided in the book. If you know Luke and Lorelai (yep, Gilmore Girls detected!) you know exactly what I’m talking about.
Len Webster’s writing follows the same line that her story. A beautiful writing, with slight Australian slangs that glows the iD of the author. Is a huge recommendation!
PS: This book is my La Vie En Rose
September 27, 2017
This is the 5th book in a series but the first one I have read...and while getting to know the other characters could have been nice I didn't feel lost while reading it...also this is not a standalone as it ends on a slight cliffhanger. (So this can be considered book 1 of 2).
Max wants to find true love like all of his friends...but yet he keeps making bad choices and going after people he shouldn't, until he meets Josie. But he doesn't think he deserves it either because of his past choices.
Josie has a hard and busy life and doesn't have time to date. Her mom is sick, she is in law school and she has a job. But a chance meeting (TWICE) with Max has her questioning everything. Max is everything she could want in a guy.
They are determined to stay friends, and so as feelings change, they both want more and yet think the other doesn't, and that they aren't good enough. But this is such a sweet love story because it kindof just happens, you see their feelings progress throughout their friendship until things change. Josie doesn't look down on Max for his past with Andrea and Sarah and she is willing to accept him for who he is. Josie though doesn't divulge about her mom so I am hoping that stuff comes up in book 2.
This ends on a slight cliffhanger, and in a way I saw it coming from the description of the book and yet I didn't because I need more!! The writing is smooth and flows nicely and you really learn to enjoy both of these characters as well as their friends/her roommate. I love all the Gilmore Girl references as well, but I am team Logan. A great story and I can not wait for part 2.
Max wants to find true love like all of his friends...but yet he keeps making bad choices and going after people he shouldn't, until he meets Josie. But he doesn't think he deserves it either because of his past choices.
Josie has a hard and busy life and doesn't have time to date. Her mom is sick, she is in law school and she has a job. But a chance meeting (TWICE) with Max has her questioning everything. Max is everything she could want in a guy.
They are determined to stay friends, and so as feelings change, they both want more and yet think the other doesn't, and that they aren't good enough. But this is such a sweet love story because it kindof just happens, you see their feelings progress throughout their friendship until things change. Josie doesn't look down on Max for his past with Andrea and Sarah and she is willing to accept him for who he is. Josie though doesn't divulge about her mom so I am hoping that stuff comes up in book 2.
This ends on a slight cliffhanger, and in a way I saw it coming from the description of the book and yet I didn't because I need more!! The writing is smooth and flows nicely and you really learn to enjoy both of these characters as well as their friends/her roommate. I love all the Gilmore Girl references as well, but I am team Logan. A great story and I can not wait for part 2.
January 23, 2018
Diving head first into a book that isn’t a standalone and where you haven’t read any of the previous books in the series, is not ideal, as I discovered when I read an ARC of With the First Goodbye by Len Webster. This book in #5 in the series and I have to warn you, there are a lot of characters in here from those previous books. Some many, it was hard to know what was going on to begin with.
Still, for all that, once I got them straight in my head, it was easier to read.
This is Josie and Max’s story. They met during the wedding of their best friends, the connection is instant, but they are both troubled and find it hard to have long-term relationships. Josie is a in college studying for her law degree and tells Max she can be his friend.
Max works for his dad’s prestigious law firm and decides to act as Josie’s mentor, if she wants him too. She agree, but it soon becomes apparent that being ‘only’ friends is harder than they think. Josie worries about being let down and left with her heart broken, and she knows Max has done that to other women before, so she’s more than waary of taking things further, even when Max swears not to hurt her.
The story took a lot of time to build and gave plenty of insight into their heads, but they until practically the endon’t even get together until the book in nearly finished. Not a bad thing I guess when this is part of a duet, and left of with a cliffhanger.
Still, for all that, once I got them straight in my head, it was easier to read.
This is Josie and Max’s story. They met during the wedding of their best friends, the connection is instant, but they are both troubled and find it hard to have long-term relationships. Josie is a in college studying for her law degree and tells Max she can be his friend.
Max works for his dad’s prestigious law firm and decides to act as Josie’s mentor, if she wants him too. She agree, but it soon becomes apparent that being ‘only’ friends is harder than they think. Josie worries about being let down and left with her heart broken, and she knows Max has done that to other women before, so she’s more than waary of taking things further, even when Max swears not to hurt her.
The story took a lot of time to build and gave plenty of insight into their heads, but they until practically the endon’t even get together until the book in nearly finished. Not a bad thing I guess when this is part of a duet, and left of with a cliffhanger.
September 27, 2017
Len Webster has written an emotional beautiful story that will captivate your attention from the very first page of the story. I love the way that the story is a slow burn type of love between the main characters and the way that the author writes the story in a way that it is enjoyable from start to finish.
I feel a lot for the main female character Josephine who is currently experiencing a hard time with her family, friends and collage.
Max is currently harbouring a lot of guilt for what he did with his friends girlfriends behind their back. It is obvious how much he cares for his friends and the people that he loves.
With the first goodbye looks at the betrayals and struggles that people experience within their lives and how they deal with it.
Len Webster really knows how to write an emotional story and write a storyline that really captures your attention. I loved this story so much and the ending of the book really had me speechless with how well it was written. This is definitely a must read for everyone.
I feel a lot for the main female character Josephine who is currently experiencing a hard time with her family, friends and collage.
Max is currently harbouring a lot of guilt for what he did with his friends girlfriends behind their back. It is obvious how much he cares for his friends and the people that he loves.
With the first goodbye looks at the betrayals and struggles that people experience within their lives and how they deal with it.
Len Webster really knows how to write an emotional story and write a storyline that really captures your attention. I loved this story so much and the ending of the book really had me speechless with how well it was written. This is definitely a must read for everyone.
September 27, 2017
4.5 STARS
First off this is my first read from this author and I was impressed. Coming into this 5th book I thought oh-no I am going to be lost. I really wasn't it is ok as a stand alone...however I will be going to Amazon to grab the others just so I can get all the background on the characters.
Max and Josie lovely people, I loved them individually and as a couple. Max has always been looking for true love but did not know how to do that...you know it happens with men sometimes right? well along comes Josie and changes his life....a past issue threatens Max and he is worried he is going to lose the one woman he loves. Is their relationship strong enough to withstand it?
I loved the writing, the story the characters and Author Len Webster left me wanting more with the cliff-hanger!!! Wowza!!! Like I said earlier I am going to read all the books in this series and can't wait for the next one!!!
I volunteered to review an Advance Reader Copy of this book for Rockstar Book Muse
First off this is my first read from this author and I was impressed. Coming into this 5th book I thought oh-no I am going to be lost. I really wasn't it is ok as a stand alone...however I will be going to Amazon to grab the others just so I can get all the background on the characters.
Max and Josie lovely people, I loved them individually and as a couple. Max has always been looking for true love but did not know how to do that...you know it happens with men sometimes right? well along comes Josie and changes his life....a past issue threatens Max and he is worried he is going to lose the one woman he loves. Is their relationship strong enough to withstand it?
I loved the writing, the story the characters and Author Len Webster left me wanting more with the cliff-hanger!!! Wowza!!! Like I said earlier I am going to read all the books in this series and can't wait for the next one!!!
I volunteered to review an Advance Reader Copy of this book for Rockstar Book Muse
September 22, 2017
Oh My Word! With The First Goodbye, I was hooked and completely taken over by this story. The real world had to be put on hold until I was done reading this book. Max was misunderstood. Judged by a mistake he made one night. He tried to let go of his past, but it always seems to catch up with him. I felt that he had the world on his shoulders and he was just settling on the idea of being alone. Josie enters in his life ( or maybe he enters hers on he bridge ) and suddenly Max is coming to new feelings. These two are my favorite people. I thought that they would be strong and make it through. Until real drama unfolds and comes threating the one real good thing Max has really ever known.
With The First Goodbye, you can read this book as a standalone. I am for one going to have to backtrack in this series and start with book one. This book has made me a fan of Len Webster.
With The First Goodbye, you can read this book as a standalone. I am for one going to have to backtrack in this series and start with book one. This book has made me a fan of Len Webster.
September 26, 2017
With The First Goodbye is an enchanting tale of family, friendships, and love. This story is beautifully written and flows straight from the heart. With The First Goodbye is captivating and charming, yet emotional and heartbreaking. This story will make you feel. You are guaranteed to fall in love with all of the characters who are so raw, so honest, and so authentic. They will steal your heart, as they pull at your heartstrings and leave you begging for more.
With The First Goodbye is timeless and breathtakingly beautiful. I got swept away in moments that made me laugh, and the bittersweet moments that brought tears to my eyes. I am cheering for Max and Josie, and can't wait for the next book in this amazing series. This was my first book by Len Webster, but it won't be my last!
Jen ♡
LipSmackin' GoodBooks
With The First Goodbye is timeless and breathtakingly beautiful. I got swept away in moments that made me laugh, and the bittersweet moments that brought tears to my eyes. I am cheering for Max and Josie, and can't wait for the next book in this amazing series. This was my first book by Len Webster, but it won't be my last!
Jen ♡
LipSmackin' GoodBooks
September 27, 2017
With the First Goodbye is beautifully written and so darn good that I didn't even mind the cliffy. Max and Josie's story is emotionally charged with friendship, heartbreak, and love. There were so many wonderful things about this one, but it's hard to give details without spoilers. I'll just say that this compelling read is one that will stay with me. It is a standalone, but there were several times that other characters entered the tale and I was a bit lost on their stories. That aside, I was quite impressed with Webster's writing and will be anxiously awaiting the next book in Max and Josie's sweet love story.
November 5, 2017
Comme toujours les histoires de Len Webster nous emmènent vers des relations un peu compliquées et semées de malentendus. On peut donc s'attendre à ce que le premier volet de Max et Josie suit cette trame. Les puristes préfèreraient sans aucun doute du nouveau, mais j'apprécie ses histoires qui semblent se ressembler.
Quoiqu'il en soit, j'espère qu'en tout cas le dernier livre de la série se terminera bien.
Petite remarque perso, l'auteure semble aimer le français. Et pour ma part, il est de temps en temps étrange d'en lire quelques mots dans ses livres au milieu de l'anglais.
Bonne lecture.
Quoiqu'il en soit, j'espère qu'en tout cas le dernier livre de la série se terminera bien.
Petite remarque perso, l'auteure semble aimer le français. Et pour ma part, il est de temps en temps étrange d'en lire quelques mots dans ses livres au milieu de l'anglais.
Bonne lecture.
September 27, 2017
Max's past "relationships" came about from misunderstandings and manipulations that lead to secrecy and guilt. What Max thought was love has led to betrayal. Josie has grown up experiencing heartbreak. She knows of guilt. When Max and Josie meet an attraction/connection forms but past events leads to an offering of friendship only.
An emotional story of friendship, love and relationships. A beautiful story of seeing truths and setting oneself free.
My first read by this author, won't be my last as I await the second part to this story
An emotional story of friendship, love and relationships. A beautiful story of seeing truths and setting oneself free.
My first read by this author, won't be my last as I await the second part to this story
September 9, 2017
Reviewed for SNS
Max made a huge mistake. One that might cost him everything. Josie hasn’t had the easiest life. The drama with her mom and her dad is real. When their best friends get married, Alex realizes that he cannot get her off his mind. She is the only one that has cared about his wellbeing in a long time. Josie really likes him. Can they work all the in between out and be together or will Max and his past, haunt him forever? Excellent read.
Max made a huge mistake. One that might cost him everything. Josie hasn’t had the easiest life. The drama with her mom and her dad is real. When their best friends get married, Alex realizes that he cannot get her off his mind. She is the only one that has cared about his wellbeing in a long time. Josie really likes him. Can they work all the in between out and be together or will Max and his past, haunt him forever? Excellent read.
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