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When I Knew You
When Ash Wells and Nat Braithwaite are thrown together after seventeen years apart, old resentments and passions are rekindled. The days of their heady teenage relationship are long gone—or are they? As they put aside their differences to honor the memory of a friend, Ash and Nat learn that sometimes, to build a future, you have to be willing to let go of the past.
240 pages, Kindle Edition
First published March 15, 2016
9 people are currently reading
200 people want to read
About the author
K.E. Payne
9 books52 followersKE Payne was born in Bath, the English city, not the tub, and after leaving school she worked for the British government for fifteen years, which probably sounds a lot more exciting than it really was.
Fed up with spending her days moving paperwork around her desk and making models of the Taj Mahal out of paperclips, she packed it all in to go to university in Bristol and graduated as a mature student in 2006 with a degree in linguistics and history.
After graduating, she worked at a university in the Midlands for a while, again moving all that paperwork around, before finally leaving to embark on her dream career as a writer.
She moved to the idyllic English countryside in 2007 where she now lives and works happily surrounded by dogs and guinea pigs.
Fed up with spending her days moving paperwork around her desk and making models of the Taj Mahal out of paperclips, she packed it all in to go to university in Bristol and graduated as a mature student in 2006 with a degree in linguistics and history.
After graduating, she worked at a university in the Midlands for a while, again moving all that paperwork around, before finally leaving to embark on her dream career as a writer.
She moved to the idyllic English countryside in 2007 where she now lives and works happily surrounded by dogs and guinea pigs.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 41 reviews
December 27, 2018
It is well known that angsty romances are not for everyone, but personally I like these stories where the protagonists really have to work hard through the pain and earn their happily ever after.
When I Knew You is a very angsty story -- one big lovely angst-fest -- so beware! For angst lovers this is a must read, because the "quality" of angst and heartfelt emotion in this book is among the most powerful I have read.
On top of that, the writing is very good, the plot interesting and unique (the eight wishes), and the characterization excellent -- every single character is well-developed and believable. Even the character who is no longer alive.
All in all, a great book, but not for everyone.
4.5 stars
*ARC provided by publisher via NetGalley*
When I Knew You is a very angsty story -- one big lovely angst-fest -- so beware! For angst lovers this is a must read, because the "quality" of angst and heartfelt emotion in this book is among the most powerful I have read.
On top of that, the writing is very good, the plot interesting and unique (the eight wishes), and the characterization excellent -- every single character is well-developed and believable. Even the character who is no longer alive.
All in all, a great book, but not for everyone.
4.5 stars
*ARC provided by publisher via NetGalley*
November 11, 2017
Ok writing but i was a little confuse at times with the way this storyline was heading. Way too long in the details and even long dialogues..nay on their chemistry and the storytelling. Puzzling storyline where someone breaks up back when they were 18 years old,then try to get back together now that they are older like 30 years--i got so lost in this story..
February 25, 2016
It's very easy to decide whether this book is for you or not. If you love angst--intense, overpowering and maddeningly drawn-out angst--then you are in for one of the most heart-squeezing, chest-aching rides of your life. Of course, you'll also need the patience of Job to enjoy it. :)
I was piqued by the book's rather unusual premise. Two former and long-estranged lovers Ash and Nat, meet up once again after not seeing each other for 16 years...at the funeral of their mutual best friend Livvy. Livvy left each of them a series of her last 'wishes'--basically a bucket list of things that they had at one time, planned to do when the three of them were still in their teens and virtually inseparable. To honor her wishes, Ash and Nat are to accomplish the tasks set forth in the bucket list with Livvy's teenage daughter Chloe.
But Ash and Nat aren't just any old pair of ex-lovers. Their breakup or more accurately, Nat's breakup with Ash had been one of the most devastating I've ever read in lesfic. It completely shattered all of Ash's dreams, while Nat has seemingly gone on to become a very successful doctor with a lengthy trail of letters after her name. Just imagine the extreme unresolved emotional baggage that these two have been carrying around for the past 16 years (anger for Ash and guilt for Nat), and you can just imagine how much angst-lovers are in for a treat. :) Now that Livvy has posthumously guilt-tripped the two into chaperoning Chloe around London and rural Cornwall, they have no choice but to face their old demons and we readers are in for the ultimate angst-trip of our lives.
At this point I'm pretty sure I've either sold you on the book or repelled you completely. So the rest of my review won't really matter anymore except for people who've actually read the book. So it all goes under the
4.4 stars
ARC from Netgalley / BSB
I was piqued by the book's rather unusual premise. Two former and long-estranged lovers Ash and Nat, meet up once again after not seeing each other for 16 years...at the funeral of their mutual best friend Livvy. Livvy left each of them a series of her last 'wishes'--basically a bucket list of things that they had at one time, planned to do when the three of them were still in their teens and virtually inseparable. To honor her wishes, Ash and Nat are to accomplish the tasks set forth in the bucket list with Livvy's teenage daughter Chloe.
But Ash and Nat aren't just any old pair of ex-lovers. Their breakup or more accurately, Nat's breakup with Ash had been one of the most devastating I've ever read in lesfic. It completely shattered all of Ash's dreams, while Nat has seemingly gone on to become a very successful doctor with a lengthy trail of letters after her name. Just imagine the extreme unresolved emotional baggage that these two have been carrying around for the past 16 years (anger for Ash and guilt for Nat), and you can just imagine how much angst-lovers are in for a treat. :) Now that Livvy has posthumously guilt-tripped the two into chaperoning Chloe around London and rural Cornwall, they have no choice but to face their old demons and we readers are in for the ultimate angst-trip of our lives.
At this point I'm pretty sure I've either sold you on the book or repelled you completely. So the rest of my review won't really matter anymore except for people who've actually read the book. So it all goes under the
4.4 stars
ARC from Netgalley / BSB
March 31, 2016
WOW – When I Knew You would have to take the gold medal for ‘most angst in a novel’ that I’ve ever read. I’m usually not a fan of angst filled novels - my usual preference is fluffy romances where I can float away and immerse myself into the sappy storyline for a few feel good hours. Don’t get me wrong, I completely immersed myself into When I Knew You, just in a different way. Who knew I’d actually love such an angst filled book – I certainly didn’t.
Ash Wells and Nat Braithwaite dated in high school, however their relationship didn’t end well. Nat remained in London, went to medical school and became a doctor like she (and Ash) had always planned. Deeply hurt and in pain, Ash failed her final exams and took off travelling. She threw her dreams and plans of becoming a doctor to the wind and got as far away from London as she could. She finally settled in Cornwall in an old fisherman’s cottage, overlooking the sea.
Seventeen years after their break up both ladies attend the funeral of their other best friend, Livvy Fancourt, and during the following days discover Livvy has a plan for them. She would like them to take her 14yo daughter, Chloe, and complete eight wishes (four in London and four in Cornwall) from the ‘wish list’ the three best friends put together when they were teenagers. Ash and Nat reluctantly agree to honor the wishes of their late friend and that’s where the adventure begins…
I love, love, loved this story and the characters. The book was well written and the emotion, pain and love leapt off the pages. Call me cold-hearted or whatever – I usually don’t cry in books. However, this one had me wiping away a few stray tears, especially reading Livvy’s letters to ‘Flash’ (Ash) and ‘Crackles’ (Nat) at the beginning of the book. Yes, only a few pages into the book and I was reaching for the tissue box! Well done, Ms Payne, well done!
If you love angst filled novels then you’ll have a field day with this one. It’s a great story well deserving of 5 stars! Bravo!
*ARC provided by publisher via NetGalley*
Ash Wells and Nat Braithwaite dated in high school, however their relationship didn’t end well. Nat remained in London, went to medical school and became a doctor like she (and Ash) had always planned. Deeply hurt and in pain, Ash failed her final exams and took off travelling. She threw her dreams and plans of becoming a doctor to the wind and got as far away from London as she could. She finally settled in Cornwall in an old fisherman’s cottage, overlooking the sea.
Seventeen years after their break up both ladies attend the funeral of their other best friend, Livvy Fancourt, and during the following days discover Livvy has a plan for them. She would like them to take her 14yo daughter, Chloe, and complete eight wishes (four in London and four in Cornwall) from the ‘wish list’ the three best friends put together when they were teenagers. Ash and Nat reluctantly agree to honor the wishes of their late friend and that’s where the adventure begins…
I love, love, loved this story and the characters. The book was well written and the emotion, pain and love leapt off the pages. Call me cold-hearted or whatever – I usually don’t cry in books. However, this one had me wiping away a few stray tears, especially reading Livvy’s letters to ‘Flash’ (Ash) and ‘Crackles’ (Nat) at the beginning of the book. Yes, only a few pages into the book and I was reaching for the tissue box! Well done, Ms Payne, well done!
If you love angst filled novels then you’ll have a field day with this one. It’s a great story well deserving of 5 stars! Bravo!
*ARC provided by publisher via NetGalley*
February 16, 2020
Nat broke up with Ash to 'focus on her studies' now sixteen years later, they are pushed together to carry out their recently deceased best friend's wishes. I know they were young or whatever but the reason of the breakup bothered me a lot in the first half. I also wish we were shown more flashbacks of them together.. I liked the second half of the book much better especially after the dinner at Nat's. Nat was easily my favourite character. Overall it was an okay read.
February 15, 2016
When I Knew You by KE Payne is angst filled roller coaster. When I say angst, let me clarify, this is the ultimate angst fest and it was so good.
Ashley "Ash" Wells runs a tourist boat tour in Cornwall (yup in the UK). She never intended to come back to her hometown of London, but the death of her childhood best friend forces her hand. Ash has not returned to London since she fled the city when she was eighteen. Why did she run? Her girlfriend, Natalie Braithwaite broke her heart, and Ash has never recovered.
Dr. Natalie "Nat" Braithwaithe is a well respected, highly skilled heart surgeon. You would think she has it all, great career, tons of money, but no. While Nat may look like her would be ideal, she is literally coming apart at the seams. Panic attacks have left her in a constant state of stress and anxiety. Her one regret in life, letting her parents talk her into breaking up with Ash all those years ago.
This angst fest was a delight to read. It's well written, the characters are interesting, and KE Payne really lets the reader feel their pain. These two ladies have one foot in the past and one in the present. Their breakup sixteen years ago has defined their lives in so many ways. So, when their friend that passed on, Livvy, asks them to fulfill her final wishes. They have no choice but to confront each other, no the pain they both carry.
Great book, I throughly enjoyed reading Ash and Nat's journey. I love a good amount of angst in my stories, so this was spot on a fantastic way to spend some downtime. I will say, the angstyness goes way into the book, 80-plus percent. So, if that's not your thing you may become frustrated. I throughly loved it, but maybe I'm just a weirdo though (no way I'm totally hip & cool).
Ashley "Ash" Wells runs a tourist boat tour in Cornwall (yup in the UK). She never intended to come back to her hometown of London, but the death of her childhood best friend forces her hand. Ash has not returned to London since she fled the city when she was eighteen. Why did she run? Her girlfriend, Natalie Braithwaite broke her heart, and Ash has never recovered.
Dr. Natalie "Nat" Braithwaithe is a well respected, highly skilled heart surgeon. You would think she has it all, great career, tons of money, but no. While Nat may look like her would be ideal, she is literally coming apart at the seams. Panic attacks have left her in a constant state of stress and anxiety. Her one regret in life, letting her parents talk her into breaking up with Ash all those years ago.
This angst fest was a delight to read. It's well written, the characters are interesting, and KE Payne really lets the reader feel their pain. These two ladies have one foot in the past and one in the present. Their breakup sixteen years ago has defined their lives in so many ways. So, when their friend that passed on, Livvy, asks them to fulfill her final wishes. They have no choice but to confront each other, no the pain they both carry.
Great book, I throughly enjoyed reading Ash and Nat's journey. I love a good amount of angst in my stories, so this was spot on a fantastic way to spend some downtime. I will say, the angstyness goes way into the book, 80-plus percent. So, if that's not your thing you may become frustrated. I throughly loved it, but maybe I'm just a weirdo though (no way I'm totally hip & cool).
November 30, 2017
I enjoyed listening to this book on my commute. It is well written, the characters were likable and the adventures around London and Cornwall were entertaining. As the other reviews have mentioned, it is notably angsty.
March 21, 2022
The angst lover in me really loved reading When I Knew You. Second chance romance between Natalie and Ashley, who became friends when they started school back in Year 7 (11/12 y/o). Together with Livvy, all three formed a friendship and were thick as thieves until they were not. Nat left Ash before they left school for uni as she didn’t want any distractions from achieving her goal of being a doctor and pressure from her parents. All 3 went their separate ways, Livvy to Oxford as the 3 friends originally planned while Nat went to Edinburgh and Ash off travelling in Europe to lick her wounds. Nat and Ash didn’t meet again until almost 17 years later when Livvy passed on, and they had to work together to fulfil 8 of Livvy’s wishes.
I so loved the journey that Nat and Ash went through to fulfil Livvy’s dying wishes. And how can the journey not rekindle the feelings that they both had and still have for each other? Livvy’s letters were bittersweet and one can’t help to drop a tear or two while reading it.
4.5 ⭐️
February 22, 2016
Ashley and Natalie haven't spoken to each other for seventeen years, not since their relationship fell apart. Now their mutual best friend Livvy has died leaving a final request that will force Nat and Ash to work together to honour Livvy's wishes. Both have moved on with their lives with varying success. Forcing them together is going to open old wounds but Ash and Nat agree to set aside the past and accept Livvy's request.
***Warning: There may be spoiler-ish comments in the following review. Read at your own risk**
I liked the concept of this novel and enjoyed the story in spite of the mixed and often conflicting emotions rolling off the two leading ladies. They are on a quest to honour their late friend but Ash and Natalie find themselves on a journey of discovery and hopefully some resolution to past wrongs. While the plot is entertaining, the character study drives the novel.
Natalie is a highly respected researcher, surgeon and a bundle of insecurities. I have come to expect the surgeons in my real and fictional (*cough* Radclyffe ) worlds to be arrogant, confident and at times detached. Here we have a woman about to return to general surgery yet she suffers from panic attacks. It twisted my brain a bit to imagine that the past has impacted her life to this degree and still she considers returning to the operating theatre. I love a complex character like Nat.
Ashley is an entertaining and eclectic character. She has remained true to her self in her need to behave and to think independently. She doesn't follow cultural norms, but lives her life wearing the clothes and attitude she chooses. She also cannot forgive or forget how devastated she was with Natalie's rejection of their love as teenagers. Cannot, will not, even when she weakens she is too stubborn to admit she still has feelings for Natalie. This does wear a bit thin and I found myself wanting to shake her occasionally, but that I assume was the author's intent.
Mixed emotional vibes aside, I love a book that begs to be picked up and read and When I Knew You was a pleasure to read. Whether I bought into the emotional rollercoaster experienced by our leading ladies or not, I really enjoyed the ride.
ARC provided with thanks by Bold Strokes Books via NetGalley for review.
***Warning: There may be spoiler-ish comments in the following review. Read at your own risk**
I liked the concept of this novel and enjoyed the story in spite of the mixed and often conflicting emotions rolling off the two leading ladies. They are on a quest to honour their late friend but Ash and Natalie find themselves on a journey of discovery and hopefully some resolution to past wrongs. While the plot is entertaining, the character study drives the novel.
Natalie is a highly respected researcher, surgeon and a bundle of insecurities. I have come to expect the surgeons in my real and fictional (*cough* Radclyffe ) worlds to be arrogant, confident and at times detached. Here we have a woman about to return to general surgery yet she suffers from panic attacks. It twisted my brain a bit to imagine that the past has impacted her life to this degree and still she considers returning to the operating theatre. I love a complex character like Nat.
Ashley is an entertaining and eclectic character. She has remained true to her self in her need to behave and to think independently. She doesn't follow cultural norms, but lives her life wearing the clothes and attitude she chooses. She also cannot forgive or forget how devastated she was with Natalie's rejection of their love as teenagers. Cannot, will not, even when she weakens she is too stubborn to admit she still has feelings for Natalie. This does wear a bit thin and I found myself wanting to shake her occasionally, but that I assume was the author's intent.
Mixed emotional vibes aside, I love a book that begs to be picked up and read and When I Knew You was a pleasure to read. Whether I bought into the emotional rollercoaster experienced by our leading ladies or not, I really enjoyed the ride.
ARC provided with thanks by Bold Strokes Books via NetGalley for review.
March 20, 2019
A very slow burn story about long lost love finding it's way home again. Nat and Ash are in their 30s and were each others first loves as teenagers, until family pressures got to be too much and broke their relationship, never to see one another again until the funeral of their best friend 16 years later. Really good yet appropriate angst throughout as we find what these reasons entail.
This book really gripped me for the first half, and I had much empathy for both Nat and Ash. After their friend died, Nat and Ash found out that her last wishes were for them to complete 8 bucket list wishes together with her teenage daughter, forcing Nat and Ash to communicate about their pasts and where their feelings lie now. This was a neat twist! We readers find out how each of them coped and struggled respectively after their breakup, which was actually really well done and deeply personal.
About half way in however, I got bored. The story dragged and became quite repetitive. I just needed them to get on with it already. The slow burn? No purchase. I was already at 93% and there still was no intimacy, and after a loooong lead up with details about their past and the growing sparks, I was really hoping for a raw, sensual, passionate end. Not that kinda story. Bummer.
All in all it was a well written, sweet, emotional yet predictable read, however could have been shorter.
This book really gripped me for the first half, and I had much empathy for both Nat and Ash. After their friend died, Nat and Ash found out that her last wishes were for them to complete 8 bucket list wishes together with her teenage daughter, forcing Nat and Ash to communicate about their pasts and where their feelings lie now. This was a neat twist! We readers find out how each of them coped and struggled respectively after their breakup, which was actually really well done and deeply personal.
About half way in however, I got bored. The story dragged and became quite repetitive. I just needed them to get on with it already. The slow burn? No purchase. I was already at 93% and there still was no intimacy, and after a loooong lead up with details about their past and the growing sparks, I was really hoping for a raw, sensual, passionate end. Not that kinda story. Bummer.
All in all it was a well written, sweet, emotional yet predictable read, however could have been shorter.
February 22, 2016
Ash Wells and Nat Braithwaite were lovers at high school, their intense friendship rounded out by a third, Livvy. The trio were known as the Untouchables, because nothing ever got in the way of their friendship. In the last week of school however, Nat, pushed by her parents, ended her grand passion with Ash, determined to focus on her studies to become a surgeon. Destroyed by the love of her life, Ash tanked her finals and bolted overseas.
Seventeen years later, and Ash and Nat meet at Livvy’s funeral. The heat is still there, but so is the pain and the anger. Both Ash and Nat appear to be successful in their own lives, but perhaps things are more complicated than that.
This was a much more clever book than I anticipated. The characters were gutsy and intelligent, and there was definite heat generated on the page between them. The authors have created a much more sympathetic character in Ash, who is strong and bold. I had a bit of trouble with the speed at which she seemed to lose such intense anger, but perhaps she’s a better person than me. And Nat did come across as fairly selfish at the start, but the authors were clever in how they opened up the possibilities between the characters. The plotting was clear, I really liked Ash, and the story worked for the characters.
This was fun to read, and a clever, entertaining diversion.
Advanced reading copy provided by NetGallery for an honest review.
Seventeen years later, and Ash and Nat meet at Livvy’s funeral. The heat is still there, but so is the pain and the anger. Both Ash and Nat appear to be successful in their own lives, but perhaps things are more complicated than that.
This was a much more clever book than I anticipated. The characters were gutsy and intelligent, and there was definite heat generated on the page between them. The authors have created a much more sympathetic character in Ash, who is strong and bold. I had a bit of trouble with the speed at which she seemed to lose such intense anger, but perhaps she’s a better person than me. And Nat did come across as fairly selfish at the start, but the authors were clever in how they opened up the possibilities between the characters. The plotting was clear, I really liked Ash, and the story worked for the characters.
This was fun to read, and a clever, entertaining diversion.
Advanced reading copy provided by NetGallery for an honest review.
February 17, 2016
I really enjoyed this read despite the fact that it is 90% angst. K.E.Payne did a fantastic job to create two likable characters with realistic self doubt. What I really liked about this book was that we were shown the point of view from both characters who are strong and successful women but have a huge amount self doubt when it comes to their relationship. This was displayed so well by having one character see how beautiful the other was whilst the other is thinking how plain they are. I think that is a big part of love seeing all the best parts of a person and K.E.Payne did a fantastic job displaying this.
I loved the story line concept and found myself not wanting to put the book down wanting to know what the next wish was. I thought all the secondary characters were great additions to the book. I would have liked to see Chloe at the end as I felt she was such an important part of the journey these two women have taken to find each other again.
Great book and if you can stick out the angst it is definitely enjoyable!
I was given this book by NetGalley for an honest review.
I loved the story line concept and found myself not wanting to put the book down wanting to know what the next wish was. I thought all the secondary characters were great additions to the book. I would have liked to see Chloe at the end as I felt she was such an important part of the journey these two women have taken to find each other again.
Great book and if you can stick out the angst it is definitely enjoyable!
I was given this book by NetGalley for an honest review.
May 8, 2016
You should not expect a fair review from me this time, because I'm highly partial to angsty love stories. Anyway, I'll do my best in giving you an honest review.
I don't understand romance without angst. Most of the times, stories that have no angst seem fluffy to me, and hardly credible, because we all know how rare love is and much it hurts. However writting an angsty love story is neither an easy task, because angst needs also to be credible and justified.
While this book was no masterpiece, I found myself completely captured by this lovely love story. I enjoyed the fact that the main characters where sweetly flawed and I enjoyed the slow pace settled by author through the series of letters.
The only complain I have, as regards this book, is the fact that we know almost nothing about the secondary characters, which is specially critical if we bear in mind that that we hardly know anything about Livvy or her daughter Chloe who are the main reason behind the letters and our couple's second chance at love.
I don't understand romance without angst. Most of the times, stories that have no angst seem fluffy to me, and hardly credible, because we all know how rare love is and much it hurts. However writting an angsty love story is neither an easy task, because angst needs also to be credible and justified.
While this book was no masterpiece, I found myself completely captured by this lovely love story. I enjoyed the fact that the main characters where sweetly flawed and I enjoyed the slow pace settled by author through the series of letters.
The only complain I have, as regards this book, is the fact that we know almost nothing about the secondary characters, which is specially critical if we bear in mind that that we hardly know anything about Livvy or her daughter Chloe who are the main reason behind the letters and our couple's second chance at love.
June 10, 2016
If you love angst and second chance stories, then this is perfect for you.
March 22, 2016
First, let me start by saying that I'd like to give this book 4.5 stars, but I can't.
I love any book that speaks of a past together, one that tells of characters sweet and sour memories. So of course When I Knew You hit a very soft spot in my heart. What a sweet story of old friendships, broken hearts, and misconceptions of people you truly thought you knew. This book delved into issues I believe many people deal with: unrealistic expectations, anxieties, feeling as if you'll never be good enough- this story was so relatable at times, I almost found it therapeutic in a way. Every character, even the deceased one, was developed well and were entertaining. The only reason I rounded down as opposed to up with my half-star, was because of the constant tug of war going on between the characters. That's purely a personal preference though. It was very back and forth between Ash and Nat, which many readers may find appealing, but for me it's not my preferred play of conflict. Other than that, I felt transported to England, I felt loss, I felt love, and I felt like slapping these two women upside the head!
I would gladly and highly recommend this book to any romance reader. The biggest problem I face now is trying to shake the accent that has managed to wedge its way into my subconscious. Tally ho!
I love any book that speaks of a past together, one that tells of characters sweet and sour memories. So of course When I Knew You hit a very soft spot in my heart. What a sweet story of old friendships, broken hearts, and misconceptions of people you truly thought you knew. This book delved into issues I believe many people deal with: unrealistic expectations, anxieties, feeling as if you'll never be good enough- this story was so relatable at times, I almost found it therapeutic in a way. Every character, even the deceased one, was developed well and were entertaining. The only reason I rounded down as opposed to up with my half-star, was because of the constant tug of war going on between the characters. That's purely a personal preference though. It was very back and forth between Ash and Nat, which many readers may find appealing, but for me it's not my preferred play of conflict. Other than that, I felt transported to England, I felt loss, I felt love, and I felt like slapping these two women upside the head!
I would gladly and highly recommend this book to any romance reader. The biggest problem I face now is trying to shake the accent that has managed to wedge its way into my subconscious. Tally ho!
March 8, 2016
When I read the other reviews about this book being angst filled I had my doubts about reading it. I thought I didn't like angst filled books but I think they've grown on me.
17 years after a not so nice break up Nat and Ash are thrown together after a close friends death. In order to follow this friends last wishes they are going to have to spend a lot of time together.
This is angst filled, there's no doubt about it. Watching both of these women attempting to work through past issues in order to move forward was tough. Especially Ash who didn't see the break up coming and who's university and planned out life was thrown completely off course. Nat has her own family and self esteem issues, add all of this together and you have angst.
The characters of this book were really well developed, I even felt like I knew Livvy who had passed away. The romance was nicely done and I'd definitely recommend it.
ARC received from publisher via NetGalley
17 years after a not so nice break up Nat and Ash are thrown together after a close friends death. In order to follow this friends last wishes they are going to have to spend a lot of time together.
This is angst filled, there's no doubt about it. Watching both of these women attempting to work through past issues in order to move forward was tough. Especially Ash who didn't see the break up coming and who's university and planned out life was thrown completely off course. Nat has her own family and self esteem issues, add all of this together and you have angst.
The characters of this book were really well developed, I even felt like I knew Livvy who had passed away. The romance was nicely done and I'd definitely recommend it.
ARC received from publisher via NetGalley
June 9, 2017
What happens when you substitute extreme teenage angst for a perfectly good story? "When I knew you" happens. (TLDR: 35year olds behaving like 14year olds, - read this for the angst only.) Unless you are a major fan of angst you REALLY won't like this. I love angst and my YA reads are usually riddled with this stuff, but I still found it somewhat boring due to lack of an interesting story. With that said, I did like it. It's just a huge angst-y overkill, and if all of this sound enticing to you, this is your kind of read!
It's a fragile 3star, somewhere in the middle I found myself wanting it to just be over already since little to nothing ever happens. Near the end Chloe asks "what happened", Ash says "long story." It really isn't though, it's an incredibly short story and that sums it up pretty nicely. Because it's about the only thing that happens in the book. Which says a lot about the lacking story. With nothing further to fuel the story or the angst train that's so wholly overdone to little effect, the story turns plain boring. It runs on an empty fuel tank so to speak. That said, I liked some of the book. The sad reminiscing start was good and the ending left me feeling decent, but otherwise it felt lacking.
Not really having grown apart after 16years, it's also evident they never grew up either as they both behave like teenagers through the entire (lack of) story. The book is filled with angst all the way, but it's rather mild, and far from heart-wrenching. It's more of a small ache that eventually proves more annoying than painful. It's way too repetitive with angst conclusions all over, and with no development to really spark them so it feels a little redundant. It forms a really repetitive and predictable pattern that always starts in a positive situation that for no reason spirals into negative thought patterns as if both protagonists are troubled with severe depression. Only Nat has the backstory for anxiety and even then there is no triggers, it just goes off; I was going to say "willy-nilly," but at the end of each perspective switch is rather more correct... Again, extremely predictable.
I'm not a fan of perspective switching, it often takes away anticipation and mystery, always knowing the state of mind of the other, especially when its done TWICE a chapter, killing the suspense. On top of this all the talk about them knowing each other is borderline delusional, they wouldn't know a spark between themselves if the other one was douched in gasoline and set on fire. After love confessions and right-out pleads for the other to stay they still turn 180 and go all "next week she will be gone, not giving me a second thought." It got even more annoying when the book ironically addressed this itself (at p233) as Gabe put it: "It's time you grew up, you two aren't teenagers anymore." There is NO complexity what so ever apart from extreme teenage level romance angst.
It's a fragile 3star, somewhere in the middle I found myself wanting it to just be over already since little to nothing ever happens. Near the end Chloe asks "what happened", Ash says "long story." It really isn't though, it's an incredibly short story and that sums it up pretty nicely. Because it's about the only thing that happens in the book. Which says a lot about the lacking story. With nothing further to fuel the story or the angst train that's so wholly overdone to little effect, the story turns plain boring. It runs on an empty fuel tank so to speak. That said, I liked some of the book. The sad reminiscing start was good and the ending left me feeling decent, but otherwise it felt lacking.
Not really having grown apart after 16years, it's also evident they never grew up either as they both behave like teenagers through the entire (lack of) story. The book is filled with angst all the way, but it's rather mild, and far from heart-wrenching. It's more of a small ache that eventually proves more annoying than painful. It's way too repetitive with angst conclusions all over, and with no development to really spark them so it feels a little redundant. It forms a really repetitive and predictable pattern that always starts in a positive situation that for no reason spirals into negative thought patterns as if both protagonists are troubled with severe depression. Only Nat has the backstory for anxiety and even then there is no triggers, it just goes off; I was going to say "willy-nilly," but at the end of each perspective switch is rather more correct... Again, extremely predictable.
I'm not a fan of perspective switching, it often takes away anticipation and mystery, always knowing the state of mind of the other, especially when its done TWICE a chapter, killing the suspense. On top of this all the talk about them knowing each other is borderline delusional, they wouldn't know a spark between themselves if the other one was douched in gasoline and set on fire. After love confessions and right-out pleads for the other to stay they still turn 180 and go all "next week she will be gone, not giving me a second thought." It got even more annoying when the book ironically addressed this itself (at p233) as Gabe put it: "It's time you grew up, you two aren't teenagers anymore." There is NO complexity what so ever apart from extreme teenage level romance angst.
August 28, 2016
Angst filled book, like every page of it.
The two keeps on pushing and pulling.
It's seriously annoying! They're like stuck at 18. I think they never grew up.
I like angst once in a while but too much of it is frustrating.
The ONLY person i like in this book is Gabe, well.. aside from Liv the dead friend.
I really tried to understand Ash here.
She's bitter, STUBBORN, immature and hard to understand. Her thoughts are different from what she's doing.
Although she also manages to reach out towards the end of the book.
On the other hand, Nat is easily intimidated. She has low self confidence. She often worries how to please her parents, and also like Ash, she tends to overthink everything.
I wouldn't blame everything on her, well she made a decision base on what she thought is right at that time. And they were like what? 17? 18? Although they have suffered both on that decision, it doesn't necessarily mean it's all her fault.
Actually, if you'll look into it, Nat suffered more than Ash.
She lost her love, she's full of regrets, she have to endure her very controlling parents, and I don't even know if she really likes to be a Doctor or that's just what her parents want for her. Well, for me she's a bit tolerable than Ash.
The two keeps on pushing and pulling.
It's seriously annoying! They're like stuck at 18. I think they never grew up.
I like angst once in a while but too much of it is frustrating.
The ONLY person i like in this book is Gabe, well.. aside from Liv the dead friend.
I really tried to understand Ash here.
She's bitter, STUBBORN, immature and hard to understand. Her thoughts are different from what she's doing.
Although she also manages to reach out towards the end of the book.
On the other hand, Nat is easily intimidated. She has low self confidence. She often worries how to please her parents, and also like Ash, she tends to overthink everything.
I wouldn't blame everything on her, well she made a decision base on what she thought is right at that time. And they were like what? 17? 18? Although they have suffered both on that decision, it doesn't necessarily mean it's all her fault.
Actually, if you'll look into it, Nat suffered more than Ash.
She lost her love, she's full of regrets, she have to endure her very controlling parents, and I don't even know if she really likes to be a Doctor or that's just what her parents want for her. Well, for me she's a bit tolerable than Ash.
February 28, 2016
Still Waters Run Deep
Nat, Ash and Livvy were thick as thieves in school. Nat and Ash has a secret from Livvy, they were lovers with a once in a lifetime sort of love. They had their future all planned out together until Nat broke things off. Sixteen years later and Livvy is dead. Her final wishes are for Nat and Ash to take her daughter on eight adventures that they did not have the time to take. Will Nat and Ash be able to put the pain of the past behind them to hounor their friend or is the past just too painful?
Beautifully written, this story is wonderful. It is gentle and quiet like a great romantic drama should be. At first I hated Nat but it didn't take long before I began to sympathize with her. With the pressures her parents placed on her gave her a vulnerability and I began to care for her just as much as I did Ash.
I enjoyed watching the women struggle to overcome their breakup as they tried to get along as friends while their love for each other rekindled and grew into something more than it had been when they were teens. The peaceful resolution of the story filled me with contentment and as I closed the book I could not help but to say “awww” This is one of my new favourite books.
Nat, Ash and Livvy were thick as thieves in school. Nat and Ash has a secret from Livvy, they were lovers with a once in a lifetime sort of love. They had their future all planned out together until Nat broke things off. Sixteen years later and Livvy is dead. Her final wishes are for Nat and Ash to take her daughter on eight adventures that they did not have the time to take. Will Nat and Ash be able to put the pain of the past behind them to hounor their friend or is the past just too painful?
Beautifully written, this story is wonderful. It is gentle and quiet like a great romantic drama should be. At first I hated Nat but it didn't take long before I began to sympathize with her. With the pressures her parents placed on her gave her a vulnerability and I began to care for her just as much as I did Ash.
I enjoyed watching the women struggle to overcome their breakup as they tried to get along as friends while their love for each other rekindled and grew into something more than it had been when they were teens. The peaceful resolution of the story filled me with contentment and as I closed the book I could not help but to say “awww” This is one of my new favourite books.
January 5, 2020
Well, I truly loved this book - written with a real feel of urban and rural England. Highly recommended.
March 26, 2016
You can get whiplash reading this book. By the end I was really ready for the girl to get the girl. Amazing how Ash and Nat could both change their minds mid paragraph. I loved the story, and the use of their mutual friends death wishes. A couple of times I wanted to shake Ash and tell her she was being a fool, then I remembered that their history fueled this back and forth. Then I really wanted to shake Nat for making such poor decisions. I enjoy stories where a history of the characters is told, while building a future. I find this type of writing more difficult, because as a reader we have to be able to jump back in time without it being difficult to follow. K.E. Payne did a wonderful job. I recommend this book, and though it isn’t a favorite, it is one I would reread.
~copy provided by NetGalley for honest review~
~copy provided by NetGalley for honest review~
September 9, 2016
Loved it! Angst from the first to the last chapter :)
This one seems to go out of the traditional romance formula a bit, so that was refreshing.
The characters seem real and honest which I appreciate in a romance. There is no sexual content in this novel, which is unusual for a romance story but something I also appreciate. I’m more interested in their story, not what they’re doing behind closed doors.
I really liked this novel. I wish it had been longer, it would have been nice to see more flashbacks of their relationship as teenagers. But even at 240ish pages the author had space to tell a complete story.
This is the first novel I’ve read by K.E. Payne and it was a nice surprise.
This one seems to go out of the traditional romance formula a bit, so that was refreshing.
The characters seem real and honest which I appreciate in a romance. There is no sexual content in this novel, which is unusual for a romance story but something I also appreciate. I’m more interested in their story, not what they’re doing behind closed doors.
I really liked this novel. I wish it had been longer, it would have been nice to see more flashbacks of their relationship as teenagers. But even at 240ish pages the author had space to tell a complete story.
This is the first novel I’ve read by K.E. Payne and it was a nice surprise.
March 3, 2016
Only thing I'm going to say I'm glad they finally got together just getting through the book was a love/hate read :)
Arc given by NetGalley for a honest review
Arc given by NetGalley for a honest review
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
June 29, 2017
A feel good romance under pretty tight premise. The idea is to bring back protagonists together after years of separation. However, there is too little about supporting characters, places, romantic encounters etc. which makes it little dragged and boring. Obviously, writer did not explore all the possibility that can make a book quite fascinating to read. Having said that, the storyline seem to reflect writer's personnel choices and opinions rather than telling a story to entertain readers.
May 8, 2017
Note: I received an advanced readers’ copy of the book from NetGalley in exchange for my honest review. What follows is said honest review.
Once upon a time, Ash and Nat were best friends and lovers, but the two haven’t exchanged so much as an email since Nat broke Ash’s heart over fifteen years ago. When their third musketeer, Livvy dies suddenly, however, the pair find themselves thrown together. Livvy leaves behind a sort of posthumous bucket list for her daughter, Chloe, who never got to do these things with her mother. Livvy’s final wish is that Ash and Nat show Chloe the places they used to love growing up. The more time Ash and Nat spend together, however, the closer old feelings float to the surface, leaving them to question whether there might be something in the ashes of their relationship.
I sailed through this book quickly and enjoyed it. It’s a light romance but chocked full of feels, and the plot moved at a good pace and the well-written prose served to keep me involved in the story and engaged with the characters. I always appreciate well-crafted dialogue, as it flows nicely. It keeps me in the story where I want to be, and has the added benefit of not making me cringe in awkwardness, so two thumbs up for readable and realistic conversations.
There are, perhaps, a few contrived moments, but it’s a cute love story, so it doesn’t diminish the emotion at all. The back and forth between the two main characters went on just a tad long for my taste, but the buildup did make me anticipate the payoff that much more.
It reminded me a tiny bit of Getting Back by Cindy Rizzo, old flames coming together as adults, getting to know each other as adults and trying to decide if there’s anything left of what they once had and if the potential of happiness is enough to risk guarded and scarred hearts.
If you’re looking for something easy to read, sappy, and heartwarming, definitely check this one out. No sex, or rather, there are no sex scenes, so if you’re not into that, then this will be right up your alley as well. I’d give it a PG(ish) rating, but there are still some hot moments, intense in their passion.
Once upon a time, Ash and Nat were best friends and lovers, but the two haven’t exchanged so much as an email since Nat broke Ash’s heart over fifteen years ago. When their third musketeer, Livvy dies suddenly, however, the pair find themselves thrown together. Livvy leaves behind a sort of posthumous bucket list for her daughter, Chloe, who never got to do these things with her mother. Livvy’s final wish is that Ash and Nat show Chloe the places they used to love growing up. The more time Ash and Nat spend together, however, the closer old feelings float to the surface, leaving them to question whether there might be something in the ashes of their relationship.
I sailed through this book quickly and enjoyed it. It’s a light romance but chocked full of feels, and the plot moved at a good pace and the well-written prose served to keep me involved in the story and engaged with the characters. I always appreciate well-crafted dialogue, as it flows nicely. It keeps me in the story where I want to be, and has the added benefit of not making me cringe in awkwardness, so two thumbs up for readable and realistic conversations.
There are, perhaps, a few contrived moments, but it’s a cute love story, so it doesn’t diminish the emotion at all. The back and forth between the two main characters went on just a tad long for my taste, but the buildup did make me anticipate the payoff that much more.
It reminded me a tiny bit of Getting Back by Cindy Rizzo, old flames coming together as adults, getting to know each other as adults and trying to decide if there’s anything left of what they once had and if the potential of happiness is enough to risk guarded and scarred hearts.
If you’re looking for something easy to read, sappy, and heartwarming, definitely check this one out. No sex, or rather, there are no sex scenes, so if you’re not into that, then this will be right up your alley as well. I’d give it a PG(ish) rating, but there are still some hot moments, intense in their passion.
February 22, 2016
Ash Wells fled from London at eighteen because she had her heart broken by her then girlfriend, Nat Braithwaithe. Currently running a tourist boat in Cornwall, she returns to her hometown in London due to the death of her best friend, Livvy. Ash, still heartbroken over the breakup 17 years before, finds it hard to forget the past and let Nat in again. Nat, a well respected doctor, appears to be confident and well put together on the outside but really, she regularly sees a therapist and suffers from panic attacks. Old and new feelings surface as Ash and Nat are thrown together to complete a wish list made by Livvy.
What I enjoyed most about the book was both of the main characters personality and growth throughout the book. From Ash's reluctance to give in to her feelings for Nat and learning to forget the past to Nat's vulnerability and finally finding the courage to do what will make her happy. The love they had for each other shone through and I found myself wanting to know about their past. Their new found love for each other in the present was sweet.
I felt that the supporting characters were also strong in this book. There was the voice of reason (but not pushy) in Ash's friend Gabe and the spirit of Livvy in the letters.
When I Knew You is a nice, slow burning romance that keeps you reading page after page.
Review also posted here: http://wp.me/p4Pp9O-7Z
I was given a copy of this book from the publisher via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
What I enjoyed most about the book was both of the main characters personality and growth throughout the book. From Ash's reluctance to give in to her feelings for Nat and learning to forget the past to Nat's vulnerability and finally finding the courage to do what will make her happy. The love they had for each other shone through and I found myself wanting to know about their past. Their new found love for each other in the present was sweet.
I felt that the supporting characters were also strong in this book. There was the voice of reason (but not pushy) in Ash's friend Gabe and the spirit of Livvy in the letters.
When I Knew You is a nice, slow burning romance that keeps you reading page after page.
Review also posted here: http://wp.me/p4Pp9O-7Z
I was given a copy of this book from the publisher via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
March 1, 2016
When I Knew You by K.E. Payne
A sweet story about high school sweethearts who reconnect after a terrible tragedy that occurs sixteen years after their horrible break up.
I thought the story was well written, but not terrible creative. It did have some unexpected elements in throughout the story, but was very predictable.
Also, the author seemed to shy away from mentioning any sort of intimate relationship between Ash and Nat, granted this story is not a steamy romance novel; however, it is a romantic story and the lack of a sexual component between the two main characters makes this story more about a friendship than an romantic relationship. I don’t say that to mean you friendship isn’t a valuable component to a relationship, what I mean is this story could be about high school friends reconnecting after sixteen years and just catching up and not two high school sweethearts who are trying to get over the past.
There is mention of passion and intimately but not much to make me believe it. And when they finally do kiss it felt awkward to me. I didn’t feel/sense a real connection with the characters.
A sweet story about high school sweethearts who reconnect after a terrible tragedy that occurs sixteen years after their horrible break up.
I thought the story was well written, but not terrible creative. It did have some unexpected elements in throughout the story, but was very predictable.
Also, the author seemed to shy away from mentioning any sort of intimate relationship between Ash and Nat, granted this story is not a steamy romance novel; however, it is a romantic story and the lack of a sexual component between the two main characters makes this story more about a friendship than an romantic relationship. I don’t say that to mean you friendship isn’t a valuable component to a relationship, what I mean is this story could be about high school friends reconnecting after sixteen years and just catching up and not two high school sweethearts who are trying to get over the past.
There is mention of passion and intimately but not much to make me believe it. And when they finally do kiss it felt awkward to me. I didn’t feel/sense a real connection with the characters.
January 31, 2020
Story of teenage lovers torn apart and reuniting at adults.
February 7, 2016
This is an honest review thanks to NetGalley. This book was extremely sweet and heartwarming, the heartbreak and missed opportunities between the two jumped off the page and pulled at my heartstrings. The death of a friend bringing these two both together and how the letters finally made the two women spend time together, spill their hearts out and fall in love once again. this was a great read and I can't wait to read more by this author.
September 19, 2018
The story takes place in the UK split between London and Cornwall. A picturesque setting of contrasts indeed. After Livvy's passing, three once BFFs are now two-- who happen to have also been deeply in love. That was many years ago and now the two are forced to face the past, the feelings, and eventually the future.
I started reading and initially thought this book wasn't right for me. Then it suddenly took off and I found it to be the most enjoyable, albeit bittersweet experience. KE Payne delicately handles difficult life situations with expert care and passion. Nat and Ash are in good hands.
Payne brings to life the location, the seasons, the feelings and the memories in a way that keeps them haunting-- hovering in your mind between reading sessions. Life is the antagonist here, not Ash or Nat. It's time they embrace it and make life work for them.
I received a copy from the publisher through NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
I started reading and initially thought this book wasn't right for me. Then it suddenly took off and I found it to be the most enjoyable, albeit bittersweet experience. KE Payne delicately handles difficult life situations with expert care and passion. Nat and Ash are in good hands.
Payne brings to life the location, the seasons, the feelings and the memories in a way that keeps them haunting-- hovering in your mind between reading sessions. Life is the antagonist here, not Ash or Nat. It's time they embrace it and make life work for them.
I received a copy from the publisher through NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
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