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Always and Forever #1
Always the One (Always and Forever Series)
Friendships are defined as a bond between two people, a building of a strong connection and like for one another. Usually excluding romantic or sexual feelings. Now what occurs when the typical doesn’t happen and friendship turns to love?
Trey Adams spends his days working with music and pining over his longtime best friend, Shayla Donovan. The only thing holding him back is his past, a past where love only hurts and leaves you. To love Shayla the way he desires may be a long, arduous road.
Shayla Donovan has lived thirteen years of her life with a secret she is ready to confess. Pushing her fear aside may be the only way she can move forward in helping Trey learn the meaning of true love.
On their journey to finding love, these two souls will fight battles bigger than they could ever imagine.
*This novel contains mature subject matter, such as explicit sexual situations and coarse language, please refrain from reading if these things offend you. This story is not suitable for anyone under the age of 18. Hot, sensitive, alpha male, with an HEA.
Trey Adams spends his days working with music and pining over his longtime best friend, Shayla Donovan. The only thing holding him back is his past, a past where love only hurts and leaves you. To love Shayla the way he desires may be a long, arduous road.
Shayla Donovan has lived thirteen years of her life with a secret she is ready to confess. Pushing her fear aside may be the only way she can move forward in helping Trey learn the meaning of true love.
On their journey to finding love, these two souls will fight battles bigger than they could ever imagine.
*This novel contains mature subject matter, such as explicit sexual situations and coarse language, please refrain from reading if these things offend you. This story is not suitable for anyone under the age of 18. Hot, sensitive, alpha male, with an HEA.
310 pages, Paperback
First published August 1, 2016
234 people are currently reading
1152 people want to read
About the author
C.C. Monroe
24 books915 followersAuthor CC Monroe was born in the sunshine state of California. Now residing in Utah with her real life book husband and beautiful sons; she spends her days working and her nights locked away writing the stories her readers can’t get enough of!
Writing angst filled, plot driven, insanely sexy stories just the way we like it. CC has mad one liners, can be witty on the spot and curses like a sailor. Her best friend is coffee with a side of sarcasm.
Meet your new go to author—CC Monroe.
Writing angst filled, plot driven, insanely sexy stories just the way we like it. CC has mad one liners, can be witty on the spot and curses like a sailor. Her best friend is coffee with a side of sarcasm.
Meet your new go to author—CC Monroe.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 88 reviews
July 26, 2017
CC. Monroe nailed her debut book. This was a fabulous contemporary romance. The plot wasn't anything new or original but the characters made me enjoy this story. They were the heart and soul. There wasn't one character I didn't like, well of course douche bag Evan but for obvious reasons. Also Trey and Shayla's mothers but enough about them. This story was all about the sexy and insecure Trey and his best friend Shayla, her brother Kingston and her best friend Lana.
I really enjoyed these four people. Their group dynamics were spot on. Shayla and Trey were amazing. It was funny to see them both trying to be around one another while keeping their feelings to themselves. Once they finally decided to take a chance to be together as a couple was when the real emotions kicked in. I loved the build up towards them finally being intimate. It only strengthened their bond as friends and lovers but also my connection to them as well.
Trey had trust issues because of his absent mother and they definitely came into play with his relationship to Shayla. Their chemistry was intoxicating and especially Trey's need to be with her. He definitely got some skills in the sack:) Shayla surprised me despite her inexperience she proved to be strong, determined and supportive when it really mattered.
Kingston and Lana's relationship was very interesting too. They also had much history between them as Trey and Shayla. I definitely want more of them.
The story ends on a cliffhanger and I can't wait to continue my journey with these four fabulous people. This might have been a debut book but I certainly couldn't tell. The writing was great and the pace of the story flowed perfectly. I'm so excited to see what the future holds for CC. Monroe
4 BadAssDirtyI'mYoursStars
I really enjoyed these four people. Their group dynamics were spot on. Shayla and Trey were amazing. It was funny to see them both trying to be around one another while keeping their feelings to themselves. Once they finally decided to take a chance to be together as a couple was when the real emotions kicked in. I loved the build up towards them finally being intimate. It only strengthened their bond as friends and lovers but also my connection to them as well.
Trey had trust issues because of his absent mother and they definitely came into play with his relationship to Shayla. Their chemistry was intoxicating and especially Trey's need to be with her. He definitely got some skills in the sack:) Shayla surprised me despite her inexperience she proved to be strong, determined and supportive when it really mattered.
Kingston and Lana's relationship was very interesting too. They also had much history between them as Trey and Shayla. I definitely want more of them.
The story ends on a cliffhanger and I can't wait to continue my journey with these four fabulous people. This might have been a debut book but I certainly couldn't tell. The writing was great and the pace of the story flowed perfectly. I'm so excited to see what the future holds for CC. Monroe
4 BadAssDirtyI'mYoursStars
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January 10, 2021🎁 FREE on Amazon today (5/24/2019)! 🎁
April 5, 2021
CC Monroe's books are full of truth, love, heartbreak, and sexy time. You can't ask for anything more.
I love CC and her writing, she makes a story so real and breathtaking.
No one writes real love, pain, struggle, and heartbreak like CC Monroe.
I recommend this to everyone who loves romance, CC Monroe is just a master at creating real people, real love, and life in these novels.
I love CC and her writing, she makes a story so real and breathtaking.
No one writes real love, pain, struggle, and heartbreak like CC Monroe.
I recommend this to everyone who loves romance, CC Monroe is just a master at creating real people, real love, and life in these novels.
September 25, 2016
**4.5 stars
This was a cute friends to lovers book. I loved Trey, he was such a sweetheart. Kings too, I hope he gets a book. I'm nervous to see where this goes next.
This was a cute friends to lovers book. I loved Trey, he was such a sweetheart. Kings too, I hope he gets a book. I'm nervous to see where this goes next.
August 25, 2016
This is the debut novel from CC Monroe and what a debut novel it is. The story is about Trey and Shayla, two friends who were best friends since they were children and now they are in their early twenties we see them trying to fight the attraction they feel for each other.
Trey is this alpha male, which I love in a character. And he has this past that makes him hard to open up his heart to love , even with his best friend, Shayla. Trey goes thru women like they are candy yet when it comes to Shayla, he is super possessive and obsessed with her; with her he doesn’t know if he can do what it takes to try for a relationship and show her his heart. Oh and Shayla, let me say, this woman has her heart on her sleeve for her man. Even though she too has things in her past that keep her from committing, she wants to put herself out there for Trey. Oh I loved how real the characters felt, I loved how the struggles came across-it was like I was right there along with Shayla, when she was hurting and didn’t know how to go on or when she and Trey connected finally. It was real, believable and emotionally satisfying. What a great friends to lovers romance –and the nail biting question was “would Trey let Shayla in, would he finally admit he needs her love and will she let Trey be his alpha-ness with her ?” Well the questions get answered and more.
This story had everything that made me want to keep reading- friendship, good friends, great supporting cast, passion, angst, heartfelt emotions, very believable storyline, Passion, one hot alpha male and one spirited heroine. You wont go wrong with this story and I cannot wait to see what the author has up for her next book because I definitely would love to read it.
My rating: 4.5 stars ****
**I was given an ARC by A4Alpha B4Books in exchange for an honest review***
Trey is this alpha male, which I love in a character. And he has this past that makes him hard to open up his heart to love , even with his best friend, Shayla. Trey goes thru women like they are candy yet when it comes to Shayla, he is super possessive and obsessed with her; with her he doesn’t know if he can do what it takes to try for a relationship and show her his heart. Oh and Shayla, let me say, this woman has her heart on her sleeve for her man. Even though she too has things in her past that keep her from committing, she wants to put herself out there for Trey. Oh I loved how real the characters felt, I loved how the struggles came across-it was like I was right there along with Shayla, when she was hurting and didn’t know how to go on or when she and Trey connected finally. It was real, believable and emotionally satisfying. What a great friends to lovers romance –and the nail biting question was “would Trey let Shayla in, would he finally admit he needs her love and will she let Trey be his alpha-ness with her ?” Well the questions get answered and more.
This story had everything that made me want to keep reading- friendship, good friends, great supporting cast, passion, angst, heartfelt emotions, very believable storyline, Passion, one hot alpha male and one spirited heroine. You wont go wrong with this story and I cannot wait to see what the author has up for her next book because I definitely would love to read it.
My rating: 4.5 stars ****
**I was given an ARC by A4Alpha B4Books in exchange for an honest review***
August 25, 2016
Shayla Donovan has been in love with her brothers' best friend for thirteen years, without ever telling him. She knows all about the demons he fights, and she really wants to teach him the meaning of true love, but she has to swallow her fear first. Trey Adams has grown up believing that love only hurts and leaves you, so he's made sure to only do hookups. However, he's had a thing for Shayla for a while, but his demons keep him convinced he will only screw things up, and then he would lose her friendship as well. And he would rather have her just as a best friend, than to not have her at all. Will Shayla ever fess up to her feelings so she and Trey could have a shot at something amazing?
My past week in reviews has been stories that have me dramatic girly girl emotions flying everywhere! And Always the One is no exception. The character development is great, with an awesome cast of secondaries, that I CANNOT WAIT to get their stories (hint hint)! Shayla and Trey's flammable chemistry simmers for a long time before finally exploding into SCORCHIN' HOT sexy scene goodness that had me cheering. C.C. Monroe's talented writing style had the emotions of this group of people flying out of my kindle to almost choke me, as I was transported into the story. The mistakes of the characters were very realistic, but they started to become a bit much, as Trey kept making the same ones over and over to the point I found myself calling him names. That doesn't change the fact that the overall story is an addictive read that I devoured in one sitting, and I cannot wait to read more, so I HIGHLY recommend!
My past week in reviews has been stories that have me dramatic girly girl emotions flying everywhere! And Always the One is no exception. The character development is great, with an awesome cast of secondaries, that I CANNOT WAIT to get their stories (hint hint)! Shayla and Trey's flammable chemistry simmers for a long time before finally exploding into SCORCHIN' HOT sexy scene goodness that had me cheering. C.C. Monroe's talented writing style had the emotions of this group of people flying out of my kindle to almost choke me, as I was transported into the story. The mistakes of the characters were very realistic, but they started to become a bit much, as Trey kept making the same ones over and over to the point I found myself calling him names. That doesn't change the fact that the overall story is an addictive read that I devoured in one sitting, and I cannot wait to read more, so I HIGHLY recommend!
August 23, 2016
Shayla just graduated high school and about to move to Settle with her best friend Lana her brother and Trey her brother's best friend who she has had a crush on for years. Lana tells Shayla she needs to tell Trey how she feels but she knows Trey doesn't do love or relationships because of his mother. What happens though when one day Trey has grown up and omits his feelings he feels towards Shayla? Will Shayla be able to handle Trey being the alpha male that he is? Will Trey finally find the void and love he needs to finally be happy? Great book about friends turning lovers. This book doesn't rush things and explores trust issues and lots of love 5/5 stars Reviewed for Sweet & Spicy Reads - ARC provided for a honest review ***
August 28, 2016
Love!
So good! Always the one had a little of everything I love in my books...Trey is a total alpha & Shayla is full of sassy. So she give it right back when he was being the big alpha that I love. I love the friendship that they have in each other and in King & Lana. I CAN NOT WAIT FOR MY KINGS BOOK!
So good! Always the one had a little of everything I love in my books...Trey is a total alpha & Shayla is full of sassy. So she give it right back when he was being the big alpha that I love. I love the friendship that they have in each other and in King & Lana. I CAN NOT WAIT FOR MY KINGS BOOK!
August 28, 2016
This was such a phenomenal friends to lovers story! I will forever love these kinds of stories and this book just made me so happy. Everything about this book was so well done. The writing, the amazing characters, the story, the subject, the emotions it pulled from me, everything! It was all perfect! I can't recommend this book enough, read this now you will not be disappointed.
September 2, 2019
3.5/3.75
This book is more like a well written fanfiction i and love fanfiction so it was amazing reading one and being able to add it to my reading challenge. Also, it was a old school fanfiction, with all the clichès and tropes that I like. It’s problematic, I have to be honest, but sometimes I need this kind of things.
This book is more like a well written fanfiction i and love fanfiction so it was amazing reading one and being able to add it to my reading challenge. Also, it was a old school fanfiction, with all the clichès and tropes that I like. It’s problematic, I have to be honest, but sometimes I need this kind of things.
August 18, 2016
I really enjoyed the relationships between the characters, very well written and very believable, story line is heartfelt, loving, very funny in parts, this is a must read. It is a great book to take on a trip will make the travel time bearable. Very excited for more.
October 14, 2016
Love was always there
I really enjoyed this book. Shayla and Trey both have not always had it easy growing up. Trey's mom totally walked out of his life and Shayla's mom has been in and out of hers. Shayla and Trey have been best friends for a long time and have always loved each other. But should they go to the next step? What if it ruins their friendship? They are a couple who a truly made for each other. Relationships aren't always easy, but if you don't give up, it can be magical. I fell in love with Trey and Shayla. They are very strong and fight for what is theirs. I cannot wait to see what happens next. I would definitely recommend this book to everyone
I really enjoyed this book. Shayla and Trey both have not always had it easy growing up. Trey's mom totally walked out of his life and Shayla's mom has been in and out of hers. Shayla and Trey have been best friends for a long time and have always loved each other. But should they go to the next step? What if it ruins their friendship? They are a couple who a truly made for each other. Relationships aren't always easy, but if you don't give up, it can be magical. I fell in love with Trey and Shayla. They are very strong and fight for what is theirs. I cannot wait to see what happens next. I would definitely recommend this book to everyone
November 13, 2016
**5+ Stars***
Oh CC. Oh my darlin' CC. How could I NOT love this friends to lovers story. It's passionate, well written, steamy and suspenseful all at the same time! This is my first book by CC Monroe, and after the ending of this one, it DEFINITELY will not be my last!!
Shayla is a sweet, shy, but strong willed woman.....who is head over heels for her best friend, (who also happens to be her big brothers best friend) Trey--The best friend-- is head over heels for Shayla. For so long EVERYONE has known it but them. Hello oblivious! .
I love that it doesn't take the whole book for the two to get together, it's a really nice way to play the book, because honestly that is the norm these days with Friends to Lovers book.
oh I love him, oh I love her, let's wait till ten minutes left in the book to tell each other our feelings BORRRRRINNNNGGGG
This book is not like that, in fact it's the opposite. I loved watching their relationship grow, and I hurt for Trey, and for Shayla. I wanted nothing but love for them, but of course, (like most men) he keeps fucking it up..... *Sigh*
I was IN LOVE WITH KINGSTON! The best big brother, the best, Best Friend, and an absolutely pig-headed, flowers and chocolates, PERFECT man for L..... I cried for L.... No really. I cried for her, because I've been in her shoes, and it fucking sucks. To know she had Shayla, Trey and King in her corner, makes me so damn happy for her.
Now.... the sex. OH FUCKING BOY! CC Monroe, has a way of pulling you into the damn bedroom with the characters....and no...you're NOT sitting on the sidelines. You ARE Shayla. You feel everything she feels physically and emotionally. It's HOT, HOT, HOT. Oh man... I had to fan myself one, or twelve times.... No joke. (Thank God it's 26 degrees today!)
This was SUCH a fantastic read for me, and I loved it from beginning to end. The side characters were just as important as the main ones, and they were amazing. I loved Pops, and as I will reiterate, I have a MAJOR crush on Kingston..... fuck....I want him......
Anywho! I HIGHLY HIGHLY suggest, if you're looking for a great AWWWWW book (with a little suspense and broken noses thrown in) Pick up your copy of Always The One. You WON'T regret it!
ARC provided by Author in exchange for an honest bitchin’ review.
Reviewed by The Royal Bitch from Bitches N’ Books
Oh CC. Oh my darlin' CC. How could I NOT love this friends to lovers story. It's passionate, well written, steamy and suspenseful all at the same time! This is my first book by CC Monroe, and after the ending of this one, it DEFINITELY will not be my last!!
Shayla is a sweet, shy, but strong willed woman.....who is head over heels for her best friend, (who also happens to be her big brothers best friend) Trey--The best friend-- is head over heels for Shayla. For so long EVERYONE has known it but them. Hello oblivious! .
I love that it doesn't take the whole book for the two to get together, it's a really nice way to play the book, because honestly that is the norm these days with Friends to Lovers book.
oh I love him, oh I love her, let's wait till ten minutes left in the book to tell each other our feelings BORRRRRINNNNGGGG
This book is not like that, in fact it's the opposite. I loved watching their relationship grow, and I hurt for Trey, and for Shayla. I wanted nothing but love for them, but of course, (like most men) he keeps fucking it up..... *Sigh*
I was IN LOVE WITH KINGSTON! The best big brother, the best, Best Friend, and an absolutely pig-headed, flowers and chocolates, PERFECT man for L..... I cried for L.... No really. I cried for her, because I've been in her shoes, and it fucking sucks. To know she had Shayla, Trey and King in her corner, makes me so damn happy for her.
Now.... the sex. OH FUCKING BOY! CC Monroe, has a way of pulling you into the damn bedroom with the characters....and no...you're NOT sitting on the sidelines. You ARE Shayla. You feel everything she feels physically and emotionally. It's HOT, HOT, HOT. Oh man... I had to fan myself one, or twelve times.... No joke. (Thank God it's 26 degrees today!)
This was SUCH a fantastic read for me, and I loved it from beginning to end. The side characters were just as important as the main ones, and they were amazing. I loved Pops, and as I will reiterate, I have a MAJOR crush on Kingston..... fuck....I want him......
Anywho! I HIGHLY HIGHLY suggest, if you're looking for a great AWWWWW book (with a little suspense and broken noses thrown in) Pick up your copy of Always The One. You WON'T regret it!
ARC provided by Author in exchange for an honest bitchin’ review.
Reviewed by The Royal Bitch from Bitches N’ Books
March 7, 2022
I overall just didn't care for this book. I felt like the main characters had chemistry but the dramatic shift in the way Trey felt from the prologue to the first didn't seem realistic to me. It was really hard to get behind the characters as a couple because of the continued back and forth between them. It just generally wasn't my cup of tea, but that's just my preference.
August 25, 2016
Shayla Donovan is living her dream in Seattle, with her favourite people in the world. Co-owning her store, CC Chic Boutique, with her best friend Lana means the world to her, and with an investor interested in their plans, their business is about to take off. And with her brother Kingston and his best friend Trey living upstairs from them, things are almost perfect. Almost. The only thing missing from her life is love, and there is only one person Shayla wants and that's Trey. But Trey has always said that love was not for him, due to some serious issues in his past. But can she take the risk of losing their friendship and the possibility of heartbreak?
Trey Adams wants Shayla so badly it hurts, and he can no longer stand to one side anymore. Claiming her for his own is everything he has ever dreamed of and more. But when jealousy raises its head, Shayla worries that Trey's past will destroy their future. Abandoned by his cruel mother when he was eight, Trey and his dad have the closest relationship and his dad worries that Trey will lose Shayla because of his issues. Throw in the tense atmosphere between Lana and Kingston, and the atmosphere is becoming very difficult. But life is never simple. And when things take a turn for the worst, can Shayla and Trey be there for each other at their time of need?
ALWAYS THE ONE by C.C. Monroe is the first book in the Always and Forever Series, and Shayla and Trey's story will continue in the second book. This erotic tale is a story of friendship and love and having to fight for what you want. Watching Trey and Shayla's friendship become more was lovely, and their chemistry is off the charts. And Lana and Kingston's troubled relationship also adds an extra element to the story that just works. Sometimes Shayla's naivete got on my nerves, I still liked her as a character. The sex scenes are steamy and intense if a little cringe at times. Overall I enjoyed ALWAYS THE ONE by C.C. Monroe and look forward to reading the next book in the series.
*Book received from A4Alpha B4Books in exchange for an honest review
Trey Adams wants Shayla so badly it hurts, and he can no longer stand to one side anymore. Claiming her for his own is everything he has ever dreamed of and more. But when jealousy raises its head, Shayla worries that Trey's past will destroy their future. Abandoned by his cruel mother when he was eight, Trey and his dad have the closest relationship and his dad worries that Trey will lose Shayla because of his issues. Throw in the tense atmosphere between Lana and Kingston, and the atmosphere is becoming very difficult. But life is never simple. And when things take a turn for the worst, can Shayla and Trey be there for each other at their time of need?
ALWAYS THE ONE by C.C. Monroe is the first book in the Always and Forever Series, and Shayla and Trey's story will continue in the second book. This erotic tale is a story of friendship and love and having to fight for what you want. Watching Trey and Shayla's friendship become more was lovely, and their chemistry is off the charts. And Lana and Kingston's troubled relationship also adds an extra element to the story that just works. Sometimes Shayla's naivete got on my nerves, I still liked her as a character. The sex scenes are steamy and intense if a little cringe at times. Overall I enjoyed ALWAYS THE ONE by C.C. Monroe and look forward to reading the next book in the series.
*Book received from A4Alpha B4Books in exchange for an honest review
August 20, 2016
Reviewed on behalf of 2 girls who love books blog.
Always the One is the debut novel from C.C. Monroe and what a debut it is! This is definitely an author to watch out for!!
I seem to find that books that feature an alpha male follow a similar pattern, he likes the girl, she has issues, he sweeps her off her feet and away from any danger but this book is different! In fact its refreshingly different.
The story is about Trey and Shayla, best friends since they were children and now in their twenties they are still trying to fight their attraction by not letting on to each other how they feel.
Trey is an alpha-male but with a past like he has he is particularly vulnerable when it comes to opening his heart to love. It takes Shayla a lot to put aside her own fears to try and show Trey what it truly means to be loved. This story definitely shows love at its very best.
I loved Trey - I just wanted to give him a big hug, he had such a sad past that has left him feeling vulnerable and unloved and the ending (an emotional cliffhanger may I add) had me in tears. On the flip side to Trey's vulnerability was his scorching hot alpha-male prowess in the bedroom! He certainly knows how to please in that department!!
Shayla's character was likeable and she really was such an important part of Trey's life and her sassy independence really came through well in the story.
I think for a debut novel the author has done an amazing job - I really enjoyed it and I'm eagerly awaiting the next book to see what happens with Trey and Shayla. Hopefully we might find out a bit more into Kingston and Lana's story!
I give Always the One by C.C Malone 4 stars.
Always the One contains some pretty steamy sex scenes so is intended for mature audiences only.
Always the One is the debut novel from C.C. Monroe and what a debut it is! This is definitely an author to watch out for!!
I seem to find that books that feature an alpha male follow a similar pattern, he likes the girl, she has issues, he sweeps her off her feet and away from any danger but this book is different! In fact its refreshingly different.
The story is about Trey and Shayla, best friends since they were children and now in their twenties they are still trying to fight their attraction by not letting on to each other how they feel.
Trey is an alpha-male but with a past like he has he is particularly vulnerable when it comes to opening his heart to love. It takes Shayla a lot to put aside her own fears to try and show Trey what it truly means to be loved. This story definitely shows love at its very best.
I loved Trey - I just wanted to give him a big hug, he had such a sad past that has left him feeling vulnerable and unloved and the ending (an emotional cliffhanger may I add) had me in tears. On the flip side to Trey's vulnerability was his scorching hot alpha-male prowess in the bedroom! He certainly knows how to please in that department!!
Shayla's character was likeable and she really was such an important part of Trey's life and her sassy independence really came through well in the story.
I think for a debut novel the author has done an amazing job - I really enjoyed it and I'm eagerly awaiting the next book to see what happens with Trey and Shayla. Hopefully we might find out a bit more into Kingston and Lana's story!
I give Always the One by C.C Malone 4 stars.
Always the One contains some pretty steamy sex scenes so is intended for mature audiences only.
August 25, 2016
C.C. is going out there with her first book as an author and I believe she has a hit on her hands! She really knew how to build up and show feelings through her words. This book is a best friends become lovers story.
Shayla at the beginning of the book had just graduated high school and was ready to start her future. That included moving to Seattle with her best friend Lana, whom she started her business with. Now her business is thriving and doing better than they thought. She has harbored a secret for years that she is in love with her brother's (Kingston) best friend.
Trey is Kingston's best friend and they decided to move to Seattle to start a music studio. At first, their business was slow but now it's booming with major artists coming to record with them. He has always been afraid of commitment after his mom just up and left his dad and him when he was younger. Deep down he's always felt a strong connection to his best friend's little sister and one day he decides to go all in.
Shayla and Trey start slow at building their relationship because Trey doesn't know what to do. But over time he learns and their relationship becomes strong fast. They are pretty much inseparable unless they are working. They work on trusting each other and seeing what the future holds for them.
Does Trey's past with trust and abandonment issues make thing harder for Shayla and him? Does Shayla reach a point where she can longer do it? Will love overcome all for them?
This was a great first book for this author! The writing style was done in dual POVs which I personally love. You get to see both sides to the story. Amazing job C.C.!
Shayla at the beginning of the book had just graduated high school and was ready to start her future. That included moving to Seattle with her best friend Lana, whom she started her business with. Now her business is thriving and doing better than they thought. She has harbored a secret for years that she is in love with her brother's (Kingston) best friend.
Trey is Kingston's best friend and they decided to move to Seattle to start a music studio. At first, their business was slow but now it's booming with major artists coming to record with them. He has always been afraid of commitment after his mom just up and left his dad and him when he was younger. Deep down he's always felt a strong connection to his best friend's little sister and one day he decides to go all in.
Shayla and Trey start slow at building their relationship because Trey doesn't know what to do. But over time he learns and their relationship becomes strong fast. They are pretty much inseparable unless they are working. They work on trusting each other and seeing what the future holds for them.
Does Trey's past with trust and abandonment issues make thing harder for Shayla and him? Does Shayla reach a point where she can longer do it? Will love overcome all for them?
This was a great first book for this author! The writing style was done in dual POVs which I personally love. You get to see both sides to the story. Amazing job C.C.!
February 13, 2022
Slow Insta Love… Who knew!?
4.5 stars - includes some spoilers
Let me start by saying, I LOVE insta love, it’s the majority of what I read. The main difference between this story and others is that it’s longer than I expected for an Insta Love. I don’t say this as a bad thing, if anything it’s great! We get all the intricate details and relationship growth that we don’t typically get in Insta love! Most that I read range from 150-200 pages. As a result, I found myself getting anxious and waiting for the other shoe to drop for most of Shay and Trey’s story! They have such a long history and an already established relationship. As a result they get together rather early on in the story, hence the Insta love. So from 20% to about 80% I kept panicking and wondering when things were going to blow up!!
In all, CC does an amazing job of growing both of these characters, and the supporting characters. (I’m looking at you L and Kings!). Instead of growing a relationship, they are growing individually and figuring out how they fit into and already established relationship but with new dynamics. It was such a fresh take on Insta love.
Spoilers…..
I was ecstatic when I read the conversation between shay and her dad! Finally, someone was telling her all the things I was yelling at the two of them throughout the book! It’s when I had my proud momma moment with the characters. The loved, the learned, the grew and were better off for it!
Now, onto book two so I can see the outcome of the Devi stating news Trey for at the end! I hope our boy Trey and Pops are okay!
4.5 stars - includes some spoilers
Let me start by saying, I LOVE insta love, it’s the majority of what I read. The main difference between this story and others is that it’s longer than I expected for an Insta Love. I don’t say this as a bad thing, if anything it’s great! We get all the intricate details and relationship growth that we don’t typically get in Insta love! Most that I read range from 150-200 pages. As a result, I found myself getting anxious and waiting for the other shoe to drop for most of Shay and Trey’s story! They have such a long history and an already established relationship. As a result they get together rather early on in the story, hence the Insta love. So from 20% to about 80% I kept panicking and wondering when things were going to blow up!!
In all, CC does an amazing job of growing both of these characters, and the supporting characters. (I’m looking at you L and Kings!). Instead of growing a relationship, they are growing individually and figuring out how they fit into and already established relationship but with new dynamics. It was such a fresh take on Insta love.
Spoilers…..
I was ecstatic when I read the conversation between shay and her dad! Finally, someone was telling her all the things I was yelling at the two of them throughout the book! It’s when I had my proud momma moment with the characters. The loved, the learned, the grew and were better off for it!
Now, onto book two so I can see the outcome of the Devi stating news Trey for at the end! I hope our boy Trey and Pops are okay!
November 7, 2016
This debut novel by CC Monroe made me a fan for life. I love friends to lovers romances and she absolutely nailed this one!
This book is about the love that has formed over the years between best friends and the struggles that they each face when they take their relationship to the next level. Those insecurities and pains that weighs on one's heart doesn't have the same effect when you are "just friends" but when love is involved it takes it to a whole new level. For Trey that pain lies in his fear of abandonment. His love for Shayla almost crippled him to the point of self-destruction. Shayla has issues and fears of her own but she is one strong woman.
This story is mainly about Trey and Shayla but it also opens up the relationship between Shayla's best friend Lana and Shayla's brother Kingston, who is also Trey's best friend and business partner. Kingston and Lana's relationship is explosive and I'm anxious to see where it goes in future books.
I love watching this story evolve. The characters were so real and relatable. The chemistry between Trey and Shayla was off the charts hot and you could feel the love they had for each other. Be prepared for some very intense moments.
This book ends on a cliffhanger that has me biting my nails wanting more. Five fantastic stars!
This book is about the love that has formed over the years between best friends and the struggles that they each face when they take their relationship to the next level. Those insecurities and pains that weighs on one's heart doesn't have the same effect when you are "just friends" but when love is involved it takes it to a whole new level. For Trey that pain lies in his fear of abandonment. His love for Shayla almost crippled him to the point of self-destruction. Shayla has issues and fears of her own but she is one strong woman.
This story is mainly about Trey and Shayla but it also opens up the relationship between Shayla's best friend Lana and Shayla's brother Kingston, who is also Trey's best friend and business partner. Kingston and Lana's relationship is explosive and I'm anxious to see where it goes in future books.
I love watching this story evolve. The characters were so real and relatable. The chemistry between Trey and Shayla was off the charts hot and you could feel the love they had for each other. Be prepared for some very intense moments.
This book ends on a cliffhanger that has me biting my nails wanting more. Five fantastic stars!
October 18, 2016
Always the One by CC Monroe was a fantastic debut! I one-clicked this simply on the cover alone, but I got so much more from it. It was unique and full of angst, hilarity and hotness! This story was one of a kind. Going in I expected the normal swoony romance story where the characters skirt around their feelings for each other until the end. But not this one, no Monroe dove right in with this friends to lovers story. Then you get the ups, downs, ends and outs of a relationship. She shared the risks and joys and the realness. It wasn't all sunshine and rainbows. I love stories that are so real! Monroe also captured the feelings of the characters in a very real and deep way. It wasn't superficial in any aspect. This was a wonderful read and I cannot wait for more and too see Monroe grow in her stories and writing!
September 14, 2016
Bitch!!!! <3
This is the debut novel for author CC Monroe & it's a doozy
Best friends to lovers don't always work, but in this case it was brilliant.
Absolutely loved the mix of their pasts being intertwined with their current journey. It was done in a sweet and unforced manner. A dream, a memory and a smile.
The storyline was sweet, edgy, funny and at times suspenseful. It was a great journey, although not always a smooth one. It was a journey you wanted to be on and wanted to see through to the end.
I cannot wait to read book 2!
I HIGHLY RECOMMEND THIS BOOK TO PEOPLE WHO LOVE A HEA, STEAMY READ AND LOVE FRIENDS TO LOVERS ROMANCE!
This is the debut novel for author CC Monroe & it's a doozy
Best friends to lovers don't always work, but in this case it was brilliant.
Absolutely loved the mix of their pasts being intertwined with their current journey. It was done in a sweet and unforced manner. A dream, a memory and a smile.
The storyline was sweet, edgy, funny and at times suspenseful. It was a great journey, although not always a smooth one. It was a journey you wanted to be on and wanted to see through to the end.
I cannot wait to read book 2!
I HIGHLY RECOMMEND THIS BOOK TO PEOPLE WHO LOVE A HEA, STEAMY READ AND LOVE FRIENDS TO LOVERS ROMANCE!
August 19, 2016
There are different phases to every relationship. How can a simple four letter word cause misunderstanding and hurt? Always the One gets down in the trenches and delivers what LOVE really means. It's not always sunshine and waterfalls. Love is about looking beyond the exterior and getting to know all pieces even the dark and hurtful ones. I applaud Ms. Monroe for her gritty and at times toxic portrayal of all angles of the emotion. Trey and Shayla gave a collision course of wisdom on the matter.
December 28, 2017
Review of Always the One
After a couple of dark reads this book was just what I needed.
It's not without its darkness or heartache but it also has laugh out loud moments and a good storyline.
Best friends embarking on a new start in life.
Their lives so intertwined it's a shock and struggle to start with and understanding where each other is coming from............ Without letting any secrets out il say that I will be requesting to review book 2 and that book 1 leaves you with tears in your eyes and an ache in your heart
After a couple of dark reads this book was just what I needed.
It's not without its darkness or heartache but it also has laugh out loud moments and a good storyline.
Best friends embarking on a new start in life.
Their lives so intertwined it's a shock and struggle to start with and understanding where each other is coming from............ Without letting any secrets out il say that I will be requesting to review book 2 and that book 1 leaves you with tears in your eyes and an ache in your heart
December 13, 2016
Great book! I want the next one now!!!!
4.5/ 5 stars
I really loved this book (the only reason it's not 5 stars is because it ends in a CLIFFHANGER:()!
The characters were hilarious and lovable. I totally want a brother like Kingston!!!
The story is well written and has (for me) the perfect amount of ups and downs. I like that for the most part Shayla & Trey can figure out their shit, but that they still have to have real conversations to work it out.
For real though.....why the cliffhanger???? Gahhhh. Please, please, please hurry up with book 2!!!!!!
4.5/ 5 stars
I really loved this book (the only reason it's not 5 stars is because it ends in a CLIFFHANGER:()!
The characters were hilarious and lovable. I totally want a brother like Kingston!!!
The story is well written and has (for me) the perfect amount of ups and downs. I like that for the most part Shayla & Trey can figure out their shit, but that they still have to have real conversations to work it out.
For real though.....why the cliffhanger???? Gahhhh. Please, please, please hurry up with book 2!!!!!!
December 28, 2016
Best Friends always there for each other. Their feeling have moved pass loving each other as friends, but can they take their relationship to the next level as lovers and not ruin what they have shared for years. They each bring baggage in to this new relationship, will Trey's trust and jealousy issues tear them apart. Will Shayla and Trey stand strong together even when it's threatened by another person trying to take what isn't theirs. Can these Soul Mates find they Happy Ever After. I have to say for this being CC Monroe debut Novel it's and incredible story.
November 28, 2016
This was an amazing friend's to lovers romance, which is one of my favorite genres! This has definitely made the list!
Trey is such an alpha and so sexy! I loved how much he loved Shayla and how possessive he was! I just loved them together!
Shayla is so sassy and I loved her! I loved her friendship with Lana. I also loved her relationship with her brother Kingston!
I can't wait to read more about them and hopefully a book about Kingston and Lana!
Trey is such an alpha and so sexy! I loved how much he loved Shayla and how possessive he was! I just loved them together!
Shayla is so sassy and I loved her! I loved her friendship with Lana. I also loved her relationship with her brother Kingston!
I can't wait to read more about them and hopefully a book about Kingston and Lana!
August 30, 2016
This was such a phenomenal friends to lovers story! I will forever love these kinds of stories and this book just made me so happy. Everything about this book was so well done. The writing, the amazing characters, the story, the subject, the emotions it pulled from me, everything! It was all perfect! I can't recommend this book enough, read this now you will not be disappointed.
September 21, 2016
ATTENTION: CONTAINS SPOILERS!!!!
Loved the characters in this book, strong when needed but also showing their weaker sides. The relationship between Shayla and Trey started from a young friendship shows a true unbreakable love. But so sad that he lost his dad.
Loved the characters in this book, strong when needed but also showing their weaker sides. The relationship between Shayla and Trey started from a young friendship shows a true unbreakable love. But so sad that he lost his dad.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
September 29, 2016
Fall in love with Shayla!!!
Such a great read!! CC has written a love story to fall head over hills for!! Grab it and go on Shayla's journey to find love!!!
Such a great read!! CC has written a love story to fall head over hills for!! Grab it and go on Shayla's journey to find love!!!
January 15, 2021
I enjoy Friends-to-Lovers and I love when you get an Alpha male that is possessive with a little issues. And this book has got that, and I enjoyed it but with that said, by the end of the book, I was contemplating DNF-ing the book. I kept pushing through hoping for it to get better but then it ended with a kind-of cliffhanger, and honestly it made me not interested in continuing the series. I might change my mind later but that's a discussion for another day.
Pros
- Strong-ish, sassy MC female (Shayla) that won't put up with alpha MC (Trey)
- Alpha Male - enough said there cause all alpha males are hot
- Quality supporting friends & Family
Cons
- per the words of another review I read, written like a well written Fan Fiction, and don't get me wrong I like a good fanfiction but unfortunately it just took the degree of a published book down for me.
- Don't really deal with any of the issues that the MC's have. Both have issues with their mom's but they don't really do anything to solve/discuss the issues. At the beginning of the book it's implied the Shayla's mom isn't involved in her life really, but then to have her call and think she has any power over who her daughter is dating, is off putting to me. And obvious, mom leaving Trey is going to cause trust issues but there is only so much you can put behind that when she left at 8 years old, in my opinion. I think it would have been more issue formulating to the extent he seems to have, if she had left when he was older, but that's more personal opinion.
Pros
- Strong-ish, sassy MC female (Shayla) that won't put up with alpha MC (Trey)
- Alpha Male - enough said there cause all alpha males are hot
- Quality supporting friends & Family
Cons
- per the words of another review I read, written like a well written Fan Fiction, and don't get me wrong I like a good fanfiction but unfortunately it just took the degree of a published book down for me.
- Don't really deal with any of the issues that the MC's have. Both have issues with their mom's but they don't really do anything to solve/discuss the issues. At the beginning of the book it's implied the Shayla's mom isn't involved in her life really, but then to have her call and think she has any power over who her daughter is dating, is off putting to me. And obvious, mom leaving Trey is going to cause trust issues but there is only so much you can put behind that when she left at 8 years old, in my opinion. I think it would have been more issue formulating to the extent he seems to have, if she had left when he was older, but that's more personal opinion.
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