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Forgotten Sweethearts
High school sweethearts, struggling with marriage and two children.. on the outside everything looks perfect..
What happens behind closed doors?
They fight. They yell and scream. There's insults, and accusations of cheating thrown around. Separate rooms and ignoring each other. It's constant bickering. They've grown apart and realised that true love doesn't always keep people together.
He's cold and arrogant, and she's a hot blooded Italian.
Fed up.. no longer willing to fight, they assume there's only way one to end it all.. Divorce is the only option, and for someone to move out.
That was the plan until a surprise holiday is sprung on them and they have to keep their act up for a little while longer.. Until they realise that they're not faking it at all.. they're doing everything they never used to, from talking and making the effort...
Finally, they realise that.. they've started to fall in love all over again.
What happens behind closed doors?
They fight. They yell and scream. There's insults, and accusations of cheating thrown around. Separate rooms and ignoring each other. It's constant bickering. They've grown apart and realised that true love doesn't always keep people together.
He's cold and arrogant, and she's a hot blooded Italian.
Fed up.. no longer willing to fight, they assume there's only way one to end it all.. Divorce is the only option, and for someone to move out.
That was the plan until a surprise holiday is sprung on them and they have to keep their act up for a little while longer.. Until they realise that they're not faking it at all.. they're doing everything they never used to, from talking and making the effort...
Finally, they realise that.. they've started to fall in love all over again.
Paperback
First published January 1, 2014
129 people are currently reading
1260 people want to read
About the author
Melissa Bender
19 books339 followersI'm wife to a FIFO miner. Mother of three. Passionate foodie, and a vivid dreamer. Living in a small beach town in the lovely Tasmania. I spend my time between home and down at the beach… making memories, and capturing the moments.
When I'm not glued to my laptop, I'm either in the kitchen creating recipes, cooking, or having a Netflix binge session. Often, I find myself drifting off into the world of make believe, getting lost inside the stories I write.. I write because it's my passion. I want to create a world for my readers to get lost in.. For them to swoon, and fall in love the way I do with each character made.. Oh, and I love starbursts!
Sweetly, Mel.
When I'm not glued to my laptop, I'm either in the kitchen creating recipes, cooking, or having a Netflix binge session. Often, I find myself drifting off into the world of make believe, getting lost inside the stories I write.. I write because it's my passion. I want to create a world for my readers to get lost in.. For them to swoon, and fall in love the way I do with each character made.. Oh, and I love starbursts!
Sweetly, Mel.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 67 reviews
March 3, 2018
***FOUR STARS***
This was totally my kind of story. A happily married couple, who find themselves drifting apart after having a couple of kids, and totally taking each other for granted. Brody is never home, he works nights, weekends and misses out on all the family activities he says he will show up for. Gabby, exhausted from basically being a full time single parent, bitches relentlessly at Brody when he finally does make an appearance at home. Brody acts like a dick back to Gabby, and the fighting begins.
This story had so much drama, from the shitty and destructive relatives on both sides of the family
to the slutty whore that works with Brody, doing everything in her power to get Brody to fall into bed with her. Shit hits the fan when Gabby walks into Brody’s office and sees how hard this slut is trying to seduce Brody, and Brody isn’t exactly fighting her off.
Then the magical words are uttered:
And the drama was just beginning. It was all delicious, from the angst of Gabby and Brody not knowing what will happen to their family in the beginning, all the way to fantastic ugly drama meltdown, and then the resolving of their problems by the end. My only complaint with this story is
I totally recommend this one to people who enjoy this type of story.
November 13, 2018
I love marriage-in-trouble stories, so I didn't hesitate on this one. H/h began dating when they were 15 in HS, married young, had kids, and H on a fast track at work. H/h were immature and didn't evolve/grow in their relationship. They grew as people and were sidetracked by life and individual lives/jobs - taking care of home and kids or working all the time to succeed. While not growing and maturing together, H/h got stuck in a rut of silence or childish arguing and not communicating with each other as adults or a couple in love. This was a solid 4 star as the couple started to try and work at their relationship. However, unnecessary drama was thrown in - and I mean a lot of unnecessary drama from multiple sources - secretary at work, his family, her family, past secrets - that I got annoyed. Some drama is ok. Real drama is when 2 people are trying to work out problems in a long-term marriage and have stumbles (real human stuff) along the way. Not unnecessary and ludicrous crap. So, 3 just barely stars
May 4, 2022
2 ⭐⭐ - Meh!
==============
The couple's life is a big farce for friends and family to see.
The sex life is horrible, he treats his children and wife very coldly. There is a co-worker who sees his smiles and good humor more than his family.
And out of nowhere they start having sex like rabbits ... Very unbelievable and meaningless. Nothing convincing. Meh!
==============
The couple's life is a big farce for friends and family to see.
The sex life is horrible, he treats his children and wife very coldly. There is a co-worker who sees his smiles and good humor more than his family.
And out of nowhere they start having sex like rabbits ... Very unbelievable and meaningless. Nothing convincing. Meh!
December 14, 2021
Toxic angst, bad romance.
Imbalanced story, I felt more hate than love.
I love angst but it's not the only factor for my rating.
First half is soon-to-be-married person's nightmare. 😅
Late 20s married MCs with 2 kids, lovers since highschool, each other's first and only, survived toxic fam, financially stable with hubby's nice career, a nice house, a nice life in general..
BUT how come they never had an open and healthy communication?? They never trusted each other, they never listened and just jumped into conclusions, they kept sensitive secrets to themselves, there were no assurances of love and commitment or any real and sincere love languages, their egos were bigger than their marriage, their screams of anger were louder than their "love," they used passionless sex to brush off their problems. I was so ready for them to divorce around 40% into the book.
Ugh! It was toxic and repetitive.😑
One last hurrah near the end of the book. H thought h cheated on him with another man, refused to hear any explanation, kicked h out of their house like yesterday's trash. Reconciled days later, no grovel cuz that'd be a waste of time when they'd rather have make-up sex. 🙃
The only thing I like? They put their kids' interests first and I did feel their deep love for them.
Imbalanced story, I felt more hate than love.
I love angst but it's not the only factor for my rating.
First half is soon-to-be-married person's nightmare. 😅
Late 20s married MCs with 2 kids, lovers since highschool, each other's first and only, survived toxic fam, financially stable with hubby's nice career, a nice house, a nice life in general..
BUT how come they never had an open and healthy communication?? They never trusted each other, they never listened and just jumped into conclusions, they kept sensitive secrets to themselves, there were no assurances of love and commitment or any real and sincere love languages, their egos were bigger than their marriage, their screams of anger were louder than their "love," they used passionless sex to brush off their problems. I was so ready for them to divorce around 40% into the book.
Ugh! It was toxic and repetitive.😑
One last hurrah near the end of the book. H thought h cheated on him with another man, refused to hear any explanation, kicked h out of their house like yesterday's trash. Reconciled days later, no grovel cuz that'd be a waste of time when they'd rather have make-up sex. 🙃
The only thing I like? They put their kids' interests first and I did feel their deep love for them.
November 23, 2018
Wow that was intense
I am going through a period where I am liking marriage in peril books more than usual. I have a very important rule though, no cheating! I can't read those. This one is intense and there were times I hated the hero Brody. He was a complete jerk. When he asked for the divorce I was shocked and he basically said I love you but I am not in love with you. How painful to hear that. His constant belittling of her role in life, his anger, his behavior was atrocious. Then they make up, only to break up again. The second one was brutal and I cried. I did get mad too because it was the notorious communication error, where he said something and she thought it was something else and she tried to explain, but not hard enough and it was a constant battle between them. They filed for divorce, he kicked her out and would not talk to her. He was mean to the kids and he told the kids she didn't want them and I really was disgusted by him. Their families were majorly dysfunctional, and so many secrets and lies and it was overwhelming sometimes. I had to set it down but I couldn't stop reading it. There are so many toxic people in their lives it was just too much at times to take. And then they discover sex again
I am going through a period where I am liking marriage in peril books more than usual. I have a very important rule though, no cheating! I can't read those. This one is intense and there were times I hated the hero Brody. He was a complete jerk. When he asked for the divorce I was shocked and he basically said I love you but I am not in love with you. How painful to hear that. His constant belittling of her role in life, his anger, his behavior was atrocious. Then they make up, only to break up again. The second one was brutal and I cried. I did get mad too because it was the notorious communication error, where he said something and she thought it was something else and she tried to explain, but not hard enough and it was a constant battle between them. They filed for divorce, he kicked her out and would not talk to her. He was mean to the kids and he told the kids she didn't want them and I really was disgusted by him. Their families were majorly dysfunctional, and so many secrets and lies and it was overwhelming sometimes. I had to set it down but I couldn't stop reading it. There are so many toxic people in their lives it was just too much at times to take. And then they discover sex again
September 20, 2025
I was enjoying all the to and fro drama until it swung out of control at the 2/3 point. Like that one loose-swinging wheel on a supermarket trolley. Swishing around on its own axis. Causing movement in the wrong direction. Just chaotic and frustrating. And the last part of the book is distressingly unedited.
What an irritating h.
→Despite MANY opportunities to open up about the sexual harassment she’s been experiencing by her brother in law - the H’s brother - she doesn’t say a damn thing. For years.
→Instead, she lies by omission - so that, amongst other ridiculous excuses, she can spare herself the humiliation of admitting it to her husband.
→Of course things blow up in her face when the hero
→The author left it brewing to culminate in the 3 act breakup.
→Which would’ve been hilarious if it wasn’t so painful to see a grown ass woman act like a weak lazy fool who couldn’t even stand up for herself and her kids.
→She finally decides to open her mouth at the exact minute his lawyer tells her to sign on the dotted line🤦🏼♀️
The hero is no better:
→Belittling her.
→Gaslighting.
→Not being present for major occurrences and flying off the handle like a damn hormonal teenager. →Assumptions and misunderstandings and all sorts of crap got tiring after a while.
→Working long hours and allowing his office twit to make herself comfy around him. Lying about his involvement with her although he wasn’t cheating and has no inclination nor intention of cheating.
The Hxh are both hotheads:
→ Jealous and suspicious of each other
→Bitching and chucking glasses around throughout their story but actual truths only come out near the end
→Very wattpad-ish
NTS:
Neaten review esp tenses
What an irritating h.
→Despite MANY opportunities to open up about the sexual harassment she’s been experiencing by her brother in law - the H’s brother - she doesn’t say a damn thing. For years.
→Instead, she lies by omission - so that, amongst other ridiculous excuses, she can spare herself the humiliation of admitting it to her husband.
→Of course things blow up in her face when the hero
→The author left it brewing to culminate in the 3 act breakup.
→Which would’ve been hilarious if it wasn’t so painful to see a grown ass woman act like a weak lazy fool who couldn’t even stand up for herself and her kids.
→She finally decides to open her mouth at the exact minute his lawyer tells her to sign on the dotted line🤦🏼♀️
The hero is no better:
→Belittling her.
→Gaslighting.
→Not being present for major occurrences and flying off the handle like a damn hormonal teenager. →Assumptions and misunderstandings and all sorts of crap got tiring after a while.
→Working long hours and allowing his office twit to make herself comfy around him. Lying about his involvement with her although he wasn’t cheating and has no inclination nor intention of cheating.
The Hxh are both hotheads:
→ Jealous and suspicious of each other
→Bitching and chucking glasses around throughout their story but actual truths only come out near the end
→Very wattpad-ish
NTS:
Neaten review esp tenses
March 17, 2021
4.5 Stars
Marriage in Trouble
High-school Sweethearts
Together 11 yrs. Married with 2 children (7 & 8).
I've said it many times before: I love the marriage in trouble trope. I'm constantly searching Goodreads, raiding friends' shelves, looking for a good post-HEA story. I'm happy to add 'Forgotten Sweethearts' to that list.
What did I think?
Gabby & Brody kept it angsty—a must in my romance. It had the perfect kind of angst, the kind that keeps me glued to the pages without me internally screaming for sedatives. Thank goodness! In a nutshell: The problem with Gabby & Brody was their failure to communicate. These two neglected their relationship for years; rarely communicating their feelings, desires, or insecurities. There was a lot of accusations of cheating from both sides. Gabby felt unappreciated and alone because Brody invested more time focused on work than his family. She also convinced herself he was cheating on her with his assistant. Spoiler Alert: He wasn't. Needless to say, these two found themselves at a point where their constant arguing and unhappiness led them to spell out the big word—DIVORCE. It was their wakeup call. Could they actually go through with it, or could they turn their marriage around? I was rooting for them! These two deserved a second chance.
MAJOR SPOILERS AHEAD
I was highly invested in their story up until the 70ish% mark, when they seemed to resolve their issues. After that the story ran out of steam. Nevertheless, I really enjoyed this story. I know I will read this again in the future. I love this trope too much and the story had a lot of what I enjoy in a romance.
HEA: Yes
No infidelity. Brody and Gabby only had eyes for each other.
It ends at 92%. There's a sample of another book by the author.
Marriage in Trouble
High-school Sweethearts
Together 11 yrs. Married with 2 children (7 & 8).
I've said it many times before: I love the marriage in trouble trope. I'm constantly searching Goodreads, raiding friends' shelves, looking for a good post-HEA story. I'm happy to add 'Forgotten Sweethearts' to that list.
What did I think?
Gabby & Brody kept it angsty—a must in my romance. It had the perfect kind of angst, the kind that keeps me glued to the pages without me internally screaming for sedatives. Thank goodness! In a nutshell: The problem with Gabby & Brody was their failure to communicate. These two neglected their relationship for years; rarely communicating their feelings, desires, or insecurities. There was a lot of accusations of cheating from both sides. Gabby felt unappreciated and alone because Brody invested more time focused on work than his family. She also convinced herself he was cheating on her with his assistant. Spoiler Alert: He wasn't. Needless to say, these two found themselves at a point where their constant arguing and unhappiness led them to spell out the big word—DIVORCE. It was their wakeup call. Could they actually go through with it, or could they turn their marriage around? I was rooting for them! These two deserved a second chance.
MAJOR SPOILERS AHEAD
I was highly invested in their story up until the 70ish% mark, when they seemed to resolve their issues. After that the story ran out of steam. Nevertheless, I really enjoyed this story. I know I will read this again in the future. I love this trope too much and the story had a lot of what I enjoy in a romance.
HEA: Yes
No infidelity. Brody and Gabby only had eyes for each other.
It ends at 92%. There's a sample of another book by the author.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 6, 2022
I'm just glad this one was over.
My main problem wasn't the story or the plot (they were lacking but I read worse ) but the main character.
I just found her pov so annoying and I can't pinpoint why 😪
My main problem wasn't the story or the plot (they were lacking but I read worse ) but the main character.
I just found her pov so annoying and I can't pinpoint why 😪
November 7, 2016
Honestly I just don't know what to write about this book....I am speechless....this was one of the amazing books I have ever read... I can't buy it but I will recommend this book to everyone I know......it taught something which I value a lot even if u feel like everything is falling apart with some hope you could build it back maybe even better than before
Dear @Melissa all the very best....i m sorry I couldn't buy it...but I will always support your growth and I promise once i m able to buy books I will buy yours....You are the best author we have ever got.....Love yaaaa
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
November 18, 2015
SOME SPOILERS.
This is about two people that are married, and are trying to save their marriage.
This book is not boring, it's very interesting how
After that, they decide to take a divorce but this not what they do. No.
Overall, I would read it again. The end is a
This book contains a lot of sex. If it's not your thing, or your age, I do not recommend it.
This is about two people that are married, and are trying to save their marriage.
This book is not boring, it's very interesting how
After that, they decide to take a divorce but this not what they do. No.
Overall, I would read it again. The end is a
This book contains a lot of sex. If it's not your thing, or your age, I do not recommend it.
March 13, 2019
2.5
I felt like a lot of the story was done for stories sake. Don't get me wrong, I love good OTT drama. But this felt contrived and not finished. Completely unpolished.
The whole part of kicking her out and then taking her back just happened too quickly and no depth and no continuity. It wasn't really believable. It doesn't make sense and it was jagged.
The brother situation was just flat. And weird.
Him treating her the way he did and her taking the blame and all of that and him loving her and it all just didn't feel right.
I've also read a lot HP books and when people have said that the h was a doormat, I rarely agreed. I would mostly see the strength or the growth etc. This h was a doormat. The husband did and said some really bad shit. Including saying to the kids that their mother didn't want them. She just brushed over it. Definite doormat. TSTL. (first time ever used that acronym).
In saying all that. It was quite well written and I didn't skim it therefore it until near the end. But as it got to the end it became weaker and weaker and more and more contrived and the characters became less believable than more.
I felt like a lot of the story was done for stories sake. Don't get me wrong, I love good OTT drama. But this felt contrived and not finished. Completely unpolished.
The whole part of kicking her out and then taking her back just happened too quickly and no depth and no continuity. It wasn't really believable. It doesn't make sense and it was jagged.
The brother situation was just flat. And weird.
Him treating her the way he did and her taking the blame and all of that and him loving her and it all just didn't feel right.
I've also read a lot HP books and when people have said that the h was a doormat, I rarely agreed. I would mostly see the strength or the growth etc. This h was a doormat. The husband did and said some really bad shit. Including saying to the kids that their mother didn't want them. She just brushed over it. Definite doormat. TSTL. (first time ever used that acronym).
In saying all that. It was quite well written and I didn't skim it therefore it until near the end. But as it got to the end it became weaker and weaker and more and more contrived and the characters became less believable than more.
September 13, 2021
My first read for 2018, and I loved it! Since marriage-in-trouble stories are one of my favorite genres, I immediately grabbed this one. I was hooked from the start that I actually ended up finishing this one past my bedtime. I thoroughly enjoyed this story. It was full of angst, drama, and passion. It was maddening, irritating, yet satisfying!
December 22, 2023
I'm lowering the rating. The herione annoyed me a lot more this time around. Punishing a child because they are rightfully mad at their parent is bullshit. They are allowed to have feelings, and refusing to hug someone is not disrespectful. Honestly, the dad deserved a kick to the junk.
2.5 I wish I didn't own this because I'm probably never going to read it again, stars😂😅
2.5 I wish I didn't own this because I'm probably never going to read it again, stars😂😅
November 27, 2016
3.5 stars
I loved the 1st half, but after that the story dragged and dragged. So, all in all, a good read by totally new author for me.
I loved the 1st half, but after that the story dragged and dragged. So, all in all, a good read by totally new author for me.
February 13, 2017
Discovered Author
So I just recently discovered this author and I can't get enough of her writing I'm really in awe of her writing
So I just recently discovered this author and I can't get enough of her writing I'm really in awe of her writing
March 3, 2018
It's not bad,but.... It's not good.
I know hitting and families who are conservative is still prevelant in parts of the world, but to bring that in a romance book,just takes out the charm of the book.
Additionally the hero being a major @ssh0le most of the time did not make it any easier to read.
The plot held promise, but the writing needed a tad bit improvement.
And the major thing that pissed me off was the continuous reference of heroine being a housewife and non earning member, although it was written to make an opposite point,like housewife being a hardworking member,which is in fact true, I couldn't help but feel the author didn't really believe what she wrote.
But to be fair I was on a search for books that were such,with heroine and hero on the verge of breaking up with a bit of harlequin vibe, but what I felt cheated on was -a bit of drama of health,like heroine almost hurt etc... And lots and lots of grovelling as the hero was indeed a major d**k and no the blame was not equal on both .
I know hitting and families who are conservative is still prevelant in parts of the world, but to bring that in a romance book,just takes out the charm of the book.
Additionally the hero being a major @ssh0le most of the time did not make it any easier to read.
The plot held promise, but the writing needed a tad bit improvement.
And the major thing that pissed me off was the continuous reference of heroine being a housewife and non earning member, although it was written to make an opposite point,like housewife being a hardworking member,which is in fact true, I couldn't help but feel the author didn't really believe what she wrote.
But to be fair I was on a search for books that were such,with heroine and hero on the verge of breaking up with a bit of harlequin vibe, but what I felt cheated on was -a bit of drama of health,like heroine almost hurt etc... And lots and lots of grovelling as the hero was indeed a major d**k and no the blame was not equal on both .
October 19, 2016
I was hooked on this book from the start. While we all want our HEA, this books explores what happens when you get your HEA and then some.
While they were childhood sweethearts, life seems very different to them now than what both of them expected. The drifting apart as work and children get into the way of couple time; until it comes to a point where the horrendous "D" word is brought up and both parties are trying to come to terms with it.
Sometimes, it is great to have meddling family members to help put back the pieces and realise why you fell in love in the first place. Will Tommy and Gabby get their forever HEA or will the strain of everything that is unspoken prove too much?
While they were childhood sweethearts, life seems very different to them now than what both of them expected. The drifting apart as work and children get into the way of couple time; until it comes to a point where the horrendous "D" word is brought up and both parties are trying to come to terms with it.
Sometimes, it is great to have meddling family members to help put back the pieces and realise why you fell in love in the first place. Will Tommy and Gabby get their forever HEA or will the strain of everything that is unspoken prove too much?
November 25, 2016
I absolutely loved this book. It had me thinking of my own marriage and our communication with each other. How you wish it could go back to the way it use to be, but with 3 kids a grandson whose 2, my husband works, I stay at home. It's almost like the book except for the fighting. This author is a great writer and this is not the first book that I've read of hers. They are all good.
November 7, 2016
Three out of five
This was an great book to read, what I can say is it will leave you happy and sad at some of the chapters of the book but over all a amazing story. I love the relationship they had with their kids even so they was going through a tough time with their marriage
This was an great book to read, what I can say is it will leave you happy and sad at some of the chapters of the book but over all a amazing story. I love the relationship they had with their kids even so they was going through a tough time with their marriage
August 31, 2019
The book was confusing. First his family was abusive and 5 minutes later they adored her. Over and over again. Also, the author shouldn't use google translate! Her italian frases were horribly wrong! A waste of time
October 23, 2016
Hook, line and sinker an absolutely amazing book
October 26, 2016
I've read this book! It's a fantastic book! A real page turner. I read it on watt pad. I love Mel's books. They are great books and she's got a lot of story lines, etc. Keep up the fab work Mel. Cxx
October 17, 2022
Reread 18.10.22
⭐️ 4
🔥 2/3
I love the plot but the miscommunication was getting annoying.
⭐️ 4
🔥 2/3
I love the plot but the miscommunication was getting annoying.
October 21, 2017
This book reel me in on the first chapter and i was eager to finish it but toward the ending my interest significantly decreased in one specific event that remind me of Emma Chase's second book of Tangled, the event are so similar, my reactions is slightly different, i'm able to keep reading it though i want to throw this book because of it, glad it's not dragged like in Tangled second book where just give up and i skim even skip it until i read the idiotic hero finally make appearance again in front of the heroine. If you read Tangled then you know what i meant.
Around the middle of the book i think the hero has some anger management issues, he show some tendencies to have it even the author point on it in some chapter, thank you dear author for not ignoring it. I think it have to do with stress he has at work and he bring it home, no there's no physical abuse here though maybe there's some unintentional verbal abuse towards each other when they're at it. the Hero could be SO intense when he's mad, turn out the heroine isn't unfamiliar with abusive family, she grown up from abusive family that she doesn't even notice it and she feels confused when she accidentally slap hero but he doesn't slap him back. My reaction: "GIRL PLEASE WAKE UP!" thankfully i think she finally notice that the abuse her family inflict isn't a normal thing and she doesn't apply it to her family, she's against violent/abuse.
Honestly it's a good book, i was ready to give it 3.5 - 4 stars BUT that scene i mention earlier about the hero highly idiotic decision RUIN IT and makes me give 3 stars (if it's possible i would like to give this book 2.8 stars). The characters are okay, they have their own strong point and flaws, deep down the hero is a good man, a good husband & father that would do anything to provide his family a good and happy life but he's been so busy and stress at work he neglect his wife's needs that makes them keep fighting with each other everyday until finally they don't and work it out. the heroine is insecure with herself since her husband changing his behavior into a cold man that neglect her and doesn't show affection like he used too but finally she get her own strength and stand up for herself when people attack her. I'm glad they could work their marriage intact.
Overall it's a good book, if want to read about contemporary romance regarding marriage life conflict i would recommended it though i have one specific scene that i hate.
Around the middle of the book i think the hero has some anger management issues, he show some tendencies to have it even the author point on it in some chapter, thank you dear author for not ignoring it. I think it have to do with stress he has at work and he bring it home, no there's no physical abuse here though maybe there's some unintentional verbal abuse towards each other when they're at it. the Hero could be SO intense when he's mad, turn out the heroine isn't unfamiliar with abusive family, she grown up from abusive family that she doesn't even notice it and she feels confused when she accidentally slap hero but he doesn't slap him back. My reaction: "GIRL PLEASE WAKE UP!" thankfully i think she finally notice that the abuse her family inflict isn't a normal thing and she doesn't apply it to her family, she's against violent/abuse.
Honestly it's a good book, i was ready to give it 3.5 - 4 stars BUT that scene i mention earlier about the hero highly idiotic decision RUIN IT and makes me give 3 stars (if it's possible i would like to give this book 2.8 stars). The characters are okay, they have their own strong point and flaws, deep down the hero is a good man, a good husband & father that would do anything to provide his family a good and happy life but he's been so busy and stress at work he neglect his wife's needs that makes them keep fighting with each other everyday until finally they don't and work it out. the heroine is insecure with herself since her husband changing his behavior into a cold man that neglect her and doesn't show affection like he used too but finally she get her own strength and stand up for herself when people attack her. I'm glad they could work their marriage intact.
Overall it's a good book, if want to read about contemporary romance regarding marriage life conflict i would recommended it though i have one specific scene that i hate.
September 14, 2021
J'ai jamais vu un personnage se faire autant victime que Gabriella ... Jvous jure.
La meuf, c'est une victime pour sa famille, sa (fausse lol) meilleure amie, son connard de mari, ses saloperies de rejeton, la famille de son mari, la secrétaire de son mari, le voisin, la maîtresse de son fils, le type qui passe à 9h01 devant sa maison en faisant son jogging ...
Et là subitement, la nana se réveille à 90%, et décide de montrer qu'elle a des couilles. Bah non, meuf. Tu fais juste tiép en fait.
Son connard de mari ? Ça fait longtemps que je l'aurais quitté.
Ses gosses ? Ils s'en seraient prise une petite dans la gueule depuis longtemps.
Ses parents ? À quel moment t'es mariée et mère de deux enfants, et tu laisses tes parents te rabaisser toi, ton mari et tes gosses, et avec le sourire en plus ?
Le frère de son mari ? Mdr mais ???? Meuf, va porter plainte wesh.
Sa meilleure amie ? Elle veut se taper son mari.
SON GROS CONNARD DE MARI ? Mdr mais la blague du siècle. Le mec il est suspect af, et si on n'avait pas eu deux pauvres chapitres minables de son pdv, tout le monde penserait encore qu'il la trompait ... J'y crois encore d'ailleurs.
Il se réveille à 70% pour la défendre, puis la vire de la baraque en 2-2 pcq il est trop débile et préfère croise son abruti de frère qui a pratiquement violé sa meuf. Tu le saurais si tu l'avais écouté depuis toutes ces années.
Je suis tendue, je suis sur les nerfs en ce moment mdr, et ça se ressent. Pffff.
La meuf, c'est une victime pour sa famille, sa (fausse lol) meilleure amie, son connard de mari, ses saloperies de rejeton, la famille de son mari, la secrétaire de son mari, le voisin, la maîtresse de son fils, le type qui passe à 9h01 devant sa maison en faisant son jogging ...
Et là subitement, la nana se réveille à 90%, et décide de montrer qu'elle a des couilles. Bah non, meuf. Tu fais juste tiép en fait.
Son connard de mari ? Ça fait longtemps que je l'aurais quitté.
Ses gosses ? Ils s'en seraient prise une petite dans la gueule depuis longtemps.
Ses parents ? À quel moment t'es mariée et mère de deux enfants, et tu laisses tes parents te rabaisser toi, ton mari et tes gosses, et avec le sourire en plus ?
Le frère de son mari ? Mdr mais ???? Meuf, va porter plainte wesh.
Sa meilleure amie ? Elle veut se taper son mari.
SON GROS CONNARD DE MARI ? Mdr mais la blague du siècle. Le mec il est suspect af, et si on n'avait pas eu deux pauvres chapitres minables de son pdv, tout le monde penserait encore qu'il la trompait ... J'y crois encore d'ailleurs.
Il se réveille à 70% pour la défendre, puis la vire de la baraque en 2-2 pcq il est trop débile et préfère croise son abruti de frère qui a pratiquement violé sa meuf. Tu le saurais si tu l'avais écouté depuis toutes ces années.
Je suis tendue, je suis sur les nerfs en ce moment mdr, et ça se ressent. Pffff.
May 8, 2025
I absolutely love this book. Forgotten Sweethearts is one of those rare stories I keep returning to again and again, and it never loses its magic. Melissa Pender beautifully captures the complexity of love and marriage through two compelling protagonists whose interactions feel both deeply intimate and achingly real.
What struck me most is how the book explores the reality that while marriage may begin with love, that love requires nurturing. Romance isn’t something that simply lasts on its own—it can fade if not cared for. The book powerfully illustrates how couples must continue to grow together, talk through their days, and share the small moments that keep a relationship alive. It’s a reminder that love is an ongoing choice and effort.
It also thoughtfully addresses the broader realities of marriage—how it’s not just about two people, but also about families, in-laws, and all the dynamics that come with them. That layer of realism adds depth without taking away from the warmth and heart of the story.
This book is beautiful, heartfelt, and wise. I never get tired of reading it.
What struck me most is how the book explores the reality that while marriage may begin with love, that love requires nurturing. Romance isn’t something that simply lasts on its own—it can fade if not cared for. The book powerfully illustrates how couples must continue to grow together, talk through their days, and share the small moments that keep a relationship alive. It’s a reminder that love is an ongoing choice and effort.
It also thoughtfully addresses the broader realities of marriage—how it’s not just about two people, but also about families, in-laws, and all the dynamics that come with them. That layer of realism adds depth without taking away from the warmth and heart of the story.
This book is beautiful, heartfelt, and wise. I never get tired of reading it.
December 31, 2016
This is the first book I have read from this author. I did enjoy it and would read other books from her. As for this story there were a few things I didn't care for.
Yes I understand they still loved each other and had just disconnected and didn't know how to make that connection again. I didn't like how Brody talked to Gabby, yes she gave it right back to him but I didn't care for it. Then for her to turn around and accommodate him when he wants sex....NO WAY!
She was to forgiving and should have made him work for it more. Then when he accuses her of cheating and kicks her out of the house should have been the last chance. Brody was to hot and cold. He couldn't make up his mind what he wanted. They needed to learn to communicate. If Gabby just would have been honest with what was happening from the beginning. They both just kept to many things inside instead of sharing and helping each other out.
Yes I understand they still loved each other and had just disconnected and didn't know how to make that connection again. I didn't like how Brody talked to Gabby, yes she gave it right back to him but I didn't care for it. Then for her to turn around and accommodate him when he wants sex....NO WAY!
She was to forgiving and should have made him work for it more. Then when he accuses her of cheating and kicks her out of the house should have been the last chance. Brody was to hot and cold. He couldn't make up his mind what he wanted. They needed to learn to communicate. If Gabby just would have been honest with what was happening from the beginning. They both just kept to many things inside instead of sharing and helping each other out.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
February 6, 2023
Not a fan. 10y relationship and 8y of that has been bad.
Beta hero and unlikable h. Half the book there was this big secret about h and Hs brother. "I still remember that night" etc. So reader is left wondering what happend 9 years ago. Did she sex the brother? Did he rape her?
Nah. He just filmed her in the shower. And aparently h went to court etc. BUT nobody knows. She never tells H, because brother will say h come onto him and H would believe her.
Ofc she never tells H, brother tells himself and makes up a version. H believes brother, because h did not say anything 9y .. even when brother was harrasing her the whole time, she had to knee himin the balls etc
And how and why H takes the mega harrassment from OW is crazy. Like how he cant do anything, when he has all the proof with text, photos
Next level how not to communicate
Beta hero and unlikable h. Half the book there was this big secret about h and Hs brother. "I still remember that night" etc. So reader is left wondering what happend 9 years ago. Did she sex the brother? Did he rape her?
Nah. He just filmed her in the shower. And aparently h went to court etc. BUT nobody knows. She never tells H, because brother will say h come onto him and H would believe her.
Ofc she never tells H, brother tells himself and makes up a version. H believes brother, because h did not say anything 9y .. even when brother was harrasing her the whole time, she had to knee himin the balls etc
And how and why H takes the mega harrassment from OW is crazy. Like how he cant do anything, when he has all the proof with text, photos
Next level how not to communicate
March 15, 2024
Why am I such a masochist?! I go looking for angst and pain like there's no mañana. What joy do I get from these books ya ask?! Heck if I know! And do I reach for any good reads? Naw no no no no, mediocrity ! Mediocrity is what I crave! So what has it got to do with this book? Good question! Nothing! Not a thing! Why?! I'll tell ya why! So there's this hero, who can be as rude as he can be to his kids, to his wife, to the tom, Dicks and Harrys but not the office t***p, no siree he can't. He loves his wife but he wants to divorce her, (not once but twice), he can't but yell at her, break things around her, and whose definition of marriage is the amounts of f**** per day and nothing else. And the heroine is so happy with the scraps she gets. And all this drama in front of the kids, woot woot! I can't even!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 25, 2024
Dude. Husband receives explicit texts from his secretary and the wife never holds him accountable. He couldn’t block the number of his useless secretary? Why not?
At one point the husband throws her out of the house (!!) when he previously said he would always take care of her. The reason he threw her out is because she apparently was assaulted by his brother when she was a teenager and because she visited a doctor and he assumed she was cheating (?). This is what we call projection because he’s the one carrying on the inappropriate relationship with his secretary.
At one point the husband throws her out of the house (!!) when he previously said he would always take care of her. The reason he threw her out is because she apparently was assaulted by his brother when she was a teenager and because she visited a doctor and he assumed she was cheating (?). This is what we call projection because he’s the one carrying on the inappropriate relationship with his secretary.
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