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After You Were Gone
Their young love ended in tragedy. Now he's back for the forgiveness only she can give.
Mitchell Tucker has come back to the small Texas town of Gila Rock looking for something Julianne Boyce has no intention of giving him: forgiveness. It’s been eight years since Mitch went to jail for starting a fire that claimed her husband’s life... and longer still since Juli and Mitch fell into a forbidden first love that their feuding families brought to an end. She’s lost too much because of his thoughtlessness to let herself fall under that familiar spell again.
But no matter how much she ignores him, Mitch isn’t leaving. Soon he’s helping out at her farm and her new store, trying to make amends, melting the cold shell Juli’s built around her heart. There’s a world of hurt and mistrust between them—but there’s also one last chance to uncover the truths that might bring them back together once more...
Mitchell Tucker has come back to the small Texas town of Gila Rock looking for something Julianne Boyce has no intention of giving him: forgiveness. It’s been eight years since Mitch went to jail for starting a fire that claimed her husband’s life... and longer still since Juli and Mitch fell into a forbidden first love that their feuding families brought to an end. She’s lost too much because of his thoughtlessness to let herself fall under that familiar spell again.
But no matter how much she ignores him, Mitch isn’t leaving. Soon he’s helping out at her farm and her new store, trying to make amends, melting the cold shell Juli’s built around her heart. There’s a world of hurt and mistrust between them—but there’s also one last chance to uncover the truths that might bring them back together once more...
258 pages, Kindle Edition
Published February 7, 2017
222 people are currently reading
407 people want to read
About the author
Alexis Harrington
18 books185 followersI've been a self-employed working novelist for the past twenty years. Of all the books I've written I've had just one foreign sale, and that was THE IRISH BRIDE, which was translated into Norwegian, where I understand it was a big hit.
I also make jewelry and I'm a fine needlework artist, specializing in embroidery, thread crochet, and sewing. I love to cook, read, entertain friends, decorate, and pursue various crafts.
I live in the Pacific Northwest near the Columbia River, still within 10 miles of my old high school. I have a Great Pyrenees dog, one cat, a finch, and three chickens who all seem to want to be in my small office while I'm trying to work (except the chickens, although they'd be thrilled to get into the house if I let them). Getting up to step around them is like maneuvering an obstacle course, but they are my children and so dear to me. My hours are kind of goofy--I'm just not a morning person and tend to be up late when the rest of the world is sleeping--and QUIET. No phones, faxes, distractions. Just the kids and me, candles burning, and the elevator music coming out of my CD player.
Before I made the leap to full-time writer, I spent about 12 years working for consulting civil engineers. Riprap, anyone? How about a nice detention pond?
I also make jewelry and I'm a fine needlework artist, specializing in embroidery, thread crochet, and sewing. I love to cook, read, entertain friends, decorate, and pursue various crafts.
I live in the Pacific Northwest near the Columbia River, still within 10 miles of my old high school. I have a Great Pyrenees dog, one cat, a finch, and three chickens who all seem to want to be in my small office while I'm trying to work (except the chickens, although they'd be thrilled to get into the house if I let them). Getting up to step around them is like maneuvering an obstacle course, but they are my children and so dear to me. My hours are kind of goofy--I'm just not a morning person and tend to be up late when the rest of the world is sleeping--and QUIET. No phones, faxes, distractions. Just the kids and me, candles burning, and the elevator music coming out of my CD player.
Before I made the leap to full-time writer, I spent about 12 years working for consulting civil engineers. Riprap, anyone? How about a nice detention pond?
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 71 reviews
July 25, 2022
Well let’s say that if you want to catch a girl’s favor one of the things you must never do is to burn her barn with her husband in it.
Especially when she’s pregnant and then she loses her child because of the trauma.
Ok, I’m joking here but not so much. I’m sorry for my dark humor…
There’s a very emotional story, a bit like Romeo and Juliet because the families of the hero and the heroine had been rival for decades even if at the moment nobody knows why.
But as in Romeo and Juliet the hero and the heroine fall in love during high school and thinks about marriage.
It’s not easy, they don’t come from rich people, especially the hero who has a father and two younger brothers who are basically living in a shack and doing nothing more than occasional jobs.
The heroine has a sick father who wants her securely married because he knows he’s dying, so the heroine asks the hero to hurry up and marry her.
He’s good at football and hopes to be chosen but he messes up because he’s a wild child and he can’t be trusted.
He asks the heroine to wait some more but alas, she can’t.
So the heroine leaves him and marries a young kind man her father chose for her.
The hero resents her greatly and of course his brothers helps him with his revenge plans.
They behave like petty bullies, making snide remarks every time they meet her. Very unpleasant.
When he find out the heroine is pregnant he goes crazy and gets drunk.
There’s a fire in the heroine’s barn and her husband who was inside it dies.
The hero goes to jail for years.
Then he comes back to town.
He needs closure with the heroine but she’s embittered and angry for what she lost.
The hero can’t even find a job because nobody will hire an ex con especially in the same town.
Then he asks the heroine if he can help her with her new shop, and he tries to make amends for what he did.
Turns out that he wasn’t alone, he was so drunk than he couldn’t even remember what he did and he didn’t know there was her husband in the barn.
His brothers helped him.
But he never told anyone to protect them.
And there are other truths to be revealed that I don’t want to spoil too much because it’s the better and more emotional part of the book.
All is very well in the end, the hero gets the girl and he’s redeemed completely so they can live in their town together.
It’s an emotional story, a second chance where both characters suffers and it’s not even their faults.
I liked it, even if there was much angst and drama, but the hea was really good.
Especially when she’s pregnant and then she loses her child because of the trauma.
Ok, I’m joking here but not so much. I’m sorry for my dark humor…
There’s a very emotional story, a bit like Romeo and Juliet because the families of the hero and the heroine had been rival for decades even if at the moment nobody knows why.
But as in Romeo and Juliet the hero and the heroine fall in love during high school and thinks about marriage.
It’s not easy, they don’t come from rich people, especially the hero who has a father and two younger brothers who are basically living in a shack and doing nothing more than occasional jobs.
The heroine has a sick father who wants her securely married because he knows he’s dying, so the heroine asks the hero to hurry up and marry her.
He’s good at football and hopes to be chosen but he messes up because he’s a wild child and he can’t be trusted.
He asks the heroine to wait some more but alas, she can’t.
So the heroine leaves him and marries a young kind man her father chose for her.
The hero resents her greatly and of course his brothers helps him with his revenge plans.
They behave like petty bullies, making snide remarks every time they meet her. Very unpleasant.
When he find out the heroine is pregnant he goes crazy and gets drunk.
There’s a fire in the heroine’s barn and her husband who was inside it dies.
The hero goes to jail for years.
Then he comes back to town.
He needs closure with the heroine but she’s embittered and angry for what she lost.
The hero can’t even find a job because nobody will hire an ex con especially in the same town.
Then he asks the heroine if he can help her with her new shop, and he tries to make amends for what he did.
Turns out that he wasn’t alone, he was so drunk than he couldn’t even remember what he did and he didn’t know there was her husband in the barn.
His brothers helped him.
But he never told anyone to protect them.
And there are other truths to be revealed that I don’t want to spoil too much because it’s the better and more emotional part of the book.
All is very well in the end, the hero gets the girl and he’s redeemed completely so they can live in their town together.
It’s an emotional story, a second chance where both characters suffers and it’s not even their faults.
I liked it, even if there was much angst and drama, but the hea was really good.
February 7, 2017
This was an excellent small town romance that showed the tougher side to small town life. Few opportunities, a lot of hard work, and people with long memories and little else to keep them occupied. Mitchell Tucker returns to Gila Rock, Tx after getting out of prison. The only thing he really wants is to see Julianne Boyce and ask for her forgiveness. Once young loves, the memories of her is all that got him through the long days of prison. Julianne has no desire to see Mitchell again but he slowly shows her that he may be the one person she can depend on. This book was very well written and these characters really stuck with me long after I finished reading their story. I would definitely recommend this one.
January 6, 2017
I requested this book from Netgalley because the premise sounded exciting.
Mitchell Tucker has come back to the small Texas town of Gila Rock looking for something Julianne Boyce has no intention of giving him: forgiveness. It’s been eight years since Mitch went to jail for starting a fire that claimed her husband’s life…and longer still since Juli and Mitch fell into a forbidden first love that their feuding families brought to an end. She’s lost too much because of his thoughtlessness to let herself fall under that familiar spell again. (...)
Unfortunately, I couldn't connect with the main characters. I think the main problem was that this is one of those books that is more focused on telling than showing. Also, all the events happening in the present are a consequence of the past of the main and secondary characters. Furthermore, everything happening in the present was also a consequence of some decisions made by characters that were not even in the picture. So, the reader has to go through all those paragraphs of telling what and what not happened in the past in order to understand what was taking place in the story.
Anyway, what I did really like was the writing style of the author. Superb job in setting the mood for a Texas/Southern story. From the point of view of an European (me) that knows little about any of that, I could picture everything easily.
Last but not least, my lack of connection with the main characters, or better said with their romance, was majorly because I couldn't really understand the female MC. This is a second chance romance, as you can tell from the blurb. But, my question is: would you let the man that you believe responsible for the death of your husband work in your farm? Even if it's for free and you really need the help. Even if you were in love with that man once upon a time. Even if you sent that man to jail for 7 years when you testified in the trial.
Hum, I don't think I would.
*I received an eARC of this book from the publisher via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.*
Mitchell Tucker has come back to the small Texas town of Gila Rock looking for something Julianne Boyce has no intention of giving him: forgiveness. It’s been eight years since Mitch went to jail for starting a fire that claimed her husband’s life…and longer still since Juli and Mitch fell into a forbidden first love that their feuding families brought to an end. She’s lost too much because of his thoughtlessness to let herself fall under that familiar spell again. (...)
Unfortunately, I couldn't connect with the main characters. I think the main problem was that this is one of those books that is more focused on telling than showing. Also, all the events happening in the present are a consequence of the past of the main and secondary characters. Furthermore, everything happening in the present was also a consequence of some decisions made by characters that were not even in the picture. So, the reader has to go through all those paragraphs of telling what and what not happened in the past in order to understand what was taking place in the story.
Anyway, what I did really like was the writing style of the author. Superb job in setting the mood for a Texas/Southern story. From the point of view of an European (me) that knows little about any of that, I could picture everything easily.
Last but not least, my lack of connection with the main characters, or better said with their romance, was majorly because I couldn't really understand the female MC. This is a second chance romance, as you can tell from the blurb. But, my question is: would you let the man that you believe responsible for the death of your husband work in your farm? Even if it's for free and you really need the help. Even if you were in love with that man once upon a time. Even if you sent that man to jail for 7 years when you testified in the trial.
Hum, I don't think I would.
*I received an eARC of this book from the publisher via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.*
March 7, 2017
It was a little bit of a struggle for me to get through it. The main characters had SOOOOO much baggage that it depressed me. Maybe others will like it better than I did. Happy reading.
January 30, 2017
3.75/4. Well-written contemporary romance, set in Gila Rock , a small deadbeat Texan town full of deadbeat psychopathic characters, which makes for a mighty depressing setting. Julianne Boyce and Mitchell Tucker both grew up in this little township and yet managed to retain their sanity and decency if nothing else. Unfortunately, they did not see beyond the town and appeared content to continue down their pre-destined un-ambitious paths except for their stolen moments of passion as teenagers, thereby defying their longstanding family feud. For Julianne, pragmatism replaced youthful feelings of love and she gave into her dying father's wishes to marry a virtual stranger. Mitchell took it hard and lived even harder afterwards, until one fateful night when his hard living resulted in the death of another - Juli's husband. After eight years in jail paying penance, he returns back to Gila Rock seeking salvation and forgiveness from Juli, before he can finally move on with his life. There is drama galore as they fight the past, each others, their family, and a bunch of maniacs.
I do like the writing style of Alexis Harrington, having read and enjoyed previously a historical romance from her. What I don't get is, why Juli insisted on marrying at 17. Also I find Gila Rock completely devoid of charm unlikely other little small town novel settings. If there are nice lovely but quirky characters, the author forgot to give them a mention, because the people are all unpleasant and either judgmental and narrow-minded or just unambitious bottom-feeders. So that begs the question as to why Juli would want to stay on. All very bleak and not quite a feel-good read.
This book is an ARC provided by Netgalley in exchange for an unbiased review.
I do like the writing style of Alexis Harrington, having read and enjoyed previously a historical romance from her. What I don't get is, why Juli insisted on marrying at 17. Also I find Gila Rock completely devoid of charm unlikely other little small town novel settings. If there are nice lovely but quirky characters, the author forgot to give them a mention, because the people are all unpleasant and either judgmental and narrow-minded or just unambitious bottom-feeders. So that begs the question as to why Juli would want to stay on. All very bleak and not quite a feel-good read.
This book is an ARC provided by Netgalley in exchange for an unbiased review.
October 11, 2021
data la bravura dell'autrice che mi ha sempre conquistata con i suoi libri, mi aspettavo di più da questo plot che invece risolve piuttosto velocemente i notevoli drammi del passato, senza troppo penare.
December 26, 2021
3,5 stars
March 11, 2017
I received a copy from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
‘After You Were Gone’ by Alexis Harrington is a second chance romance wth some interesting twists. For me this was a 3.5 star read.
Julianne and Mitchell have a long history and are from families that also have a history of feuding however that didn't stop them from at one time falling in love with one another.
Mitchell is returning to his small town in the hope of finding forgiveness. After spending eight years in jail for the causing the death of Juli’s husband Mitchell wants to return home.
Although she needs help and there are a few twists in the tale I was a little unconvinced by the story of second chance romance as I am not sure I would move forward with a man who I at one believed was responsible for my husbands death.
I really struggled with writing this review because although I was a bit unsure of the second chance romance between these two I thought it was really well written. The story flows naturally and carries you along with ease but I just didn't connect with the characters. That being said I will be reading more from Alexis Harrington.
‘After You Were Gone’ by Alexis Harrington is a second chance romance wth some interesting twists. For me this was a 3.5 star read.
Julianne and Mitchell have a long history and are from families that also have a history of feuding however that didn't stop them from at one time falling in love with one another.
Mitchell is returning to his small town in the hope of finding forgiveness. After spending eight years in jail for the causing the death of Juli’s husband Mitchell wants to return home.
Although she needs help and there are a few twists in the tale I was a little unconvinced by the story of second chance romance as I am not sure I would move forward with a man who I at one believed was responsible for my husbands death.
I really struggled with writing this review because although I was a bit unsure of the second chance romance between these two I thought it was really well written. The story flows naturally and carries you along with ease but I just didn't connect with the characters. That being said I will be reading more from Alexis Harrington.
February 7, 2017
Book Info
Paperback, 256 pages
Expected publication: February 7th 2017 by Montlake Romance
ISBN 1503941752 (ISBN13: 9781503941755)
Edition Language English
Other Editions (1)
Source:Netgalley EARC
Buy book from
Amazon
B&N
Mitchell Tucker has come back to the small Texas town of Gila Rock looking for something Julianne Boyce has no intention of giving him: forgiveness. It’s been eight years since Mitch went to jail for starting a fire that claimed her husband’s life…and longer still since Juli and Mitch fell into a forbidden first love that their feuding families brought to an end. She’s lost too much because of his thoughtlessness to let herself fall under that familiar spell again.
But no matter how much she ignores him, Mitch isn’t leaving. Soon he’s helping out at her farm and her new store, trying to make amends, melting the cold shell Juli’s built around her heart. There’s a world of hurt and mistrust between them—but there’s also one last chance to uncover the truths that might bring them back together once more…
Second chance romance set in a small town where everyone knows each other's business and gossip flies faster than the speed of sound.
When read the book kept in mind the information provided in the blurb, even knowing ahead of time that this would end up with Mitchell and Julianne together still was not fully prepared for them to reconnect.
For me everyone deserves a second chance, however some things are harder to overlook or forgive than others.
What Mitchell spent 7 years in prison for before returning to Gila Rock 8 years later would be hard to get past, and Julianne did have a tough time to say the least in the beginning.
My problem with the pair actually getting past that obstacle is more a personal feeling that maybe the past should have taught the couple that playing with fire literally gets one burned. Luckily they chose to ignore that lesson in favor of following their hearts.
An easy to follow and easy to read story that is not easy to process without being judgmental about the characters actions or motivations.
Despite my early reservations as to the advisability of Julianne and Mitchell getting their new beginning together when all was revealed it actually gave a new perspective on the couples love for each other.
Although if things had worked out differently years ago they probably never would have been parted in the first place but in the end love carried the day.
Paperback, 256 pages
Expected publication: February 7th 2017 by Montlake Romance
ISBN 1503941752 (ISBN13: 9781503941755)
Edition Language English
Other Editions (1)
Source:Netgalley EARC
Buy book from
Amazon
B&N
BOOK BLURB
Mitchell Tucker has come back to the small Texas town of Gila Rock looking for something Julianne Boyce has no intention of giving him: forgiveness. It’s been eight years since Mitch went to jail for starting a fire that claimed her husband’s life…and longer still since Juli and Mitch fell into a forbidden first love that their feuding families brought to an end. She’s lost too much because of his thoughtlessness to let herself fall under that familiar spell again.
But no matter how much she ignores him, Mitch isn’t leaving. Soon he’s helping out at her farm and her new store, trying to make amends, melting the cold shell Juli’s built around her heart. There’s a world of hurt and mistrust between them—but there’s also one last chance to uncover the truths that might bring them back together once more…
My Thoughts
Second chance romance set in a small town where everyone knows each other's business and gossip flies faster than the speed of sound.
When read the book kept in mind the information provided in the blurb, even knowing ahead of time that this would end up with Mitchell and Julianne together still was not fully prepared for them to reconnect.
For me everyone deserves a second chance, however some things are harder to overlook or forgive than others.
What Mitchell spent 7 years in prison for before returning to Gila Rock 8 years later would be hard to get past, and Julianne did have a tough time to say the least in the beginning.
My problem with the pair actually getting past that obstacle is more a personal feeling that maybe the past should have taught the couple that playing with fire literally gets one burned. Luckily they chose to ignore that lesson in favor of following their hearts.
An easy to follow and easy to read story that is not easy to process without being judgmental about the characters actions or motivations.
Despite my early reservations as to the advisability of Julianne and Mitchell getting their new beginning together when all was revealed it actually gave a new perspective on the couples love for each other.
Although if things had worked out differently years ago they probably never would have been parted in the first place but in the end love carried the day.
[EArc from Netgalley in exchange for honest review]
February 7, 2017
Eight years ago, Mitchell Tucker was convicted of starting a fire that killed a man. Having served his time, Mitch returns to Gila Rock, Texas seeking forgiveness from the widow, Julianne Boyce. Julianne doesn’t want to forgive Mitch because there is simply too much history between them. But Mitch is persistent and begins helping her around her store in hopes of paying her back for the damage he caused in her life. In the meantime, a series of escalating acts of vandalism aimed at Julianne begin to occur. Gradually accepting that Mitch isn’t to blame, Julianne tries to ignore her heart, which is falling in love with her high school sweetheart once again. Who is committing the vandalism? Will Julianne and Mitch become lovers again despite their turbulent history?
There is a lot going on in this book but it makes for a very gripping and emotional romance. First there is the romantic history between Mitch and Julianne. There is the story of him seeking forgiveness for the crimes he committed. There is also an ongoing family feud between Mitch’s family and Julianne’s. Harrington does an excellent job of weaving the different stories together and giving readers a very satisfying conclusion.
A lot of the book focuses on how Mitch and Julianne’s lives didn’t turn out as they planned. Mitch wanted to play professional baseball and was even scouted by several major league teams. But when that dream didn’t come true, Mitch also gave up in his dream of marrying Julianne. However, Mitch never told Julianne that he wanted to marry her and she instead married another man. The whole book really makes you think how one small decision can affect the trajectory of so many lives.
The suspense part of the book involving the vandalism left me guessing until the end. Like Julianne, I first suspected Mitch, because he after all had a reason. When it was revealed who was actually involved, I have to say I was pretty surprised that one of the characters had a hand in it.
After You Were Gone is a gripping, emotional romance that will stay with you long after the book is over. Featuring a heartbreaking story of love, loss, and redemption, this book is perfect for any reader who enjoys a gritty contemporary romance.
*ARC provided via NetGalley.
** Review also on:
https://www.facebook.com/SoManyReads/
There is a lot going on in this book but it makes for a very gripping and emotional romance. First there is the romantic history between Mitch and Julianne. There is the story of him seeking forgiveness for the crimes he committed. There is also an ongoing family feud between Mitch’s family and Julianne’s. Harrington does an excellent job of weaving the different stories together and giving readers a very satisfying conclusion.
A lot of the book focuses on how Mitch and Julianne’s lives didn’t turn out as they planned. Mitch wanted to play professional baseball and was even scouted by several major league teams. But when that dream didn’t come true, Mitch also gave up in his dream of marrying Julianne. However, Mitch never told Julianne that he wanted to marry her and she instead married another man. The whole book really makes you think how one small decision can affect the trajectory of so many lives.
The suspense part of the book involving the vandalism left me guessing until the end. Like Julianne, I first suspected Mitch, because he after all had a reason. When it was revealed who was actually involved, I have to say I was pretty surprised that one of the characters had a hand in it.
After You Were Gone is a gripping, emotional romance that will stay with you long after the book is over. Featuring a heartbreaking story of love, loss, and redemption, this book is perfect for any reader who enjoys a gritty contemporary romance.
*ARC provided via NetGalley.
** Review also on:
https://www.facebook.com/SoManyReads/
February 15, 2017
Mitchell comes back to that small Texas town to set right wrongs from the past and ask for forgiveness from Juli, the love he couldn't forget and whose husband he was convicted of killing. These two fight against adversity and old family feud to find the path for their future. A new book that I enjoyed from a familiar author .
Ebook from Netgalley and publishers with thanks. Opinions are entirely my own.
Ebook from Netgalley and publishers with thanks. Opinions are entirely my own.
February 7, 2017
This is a small town second chance romance with very mild suspense and a predictable plot.
Julianne is selling the pig farm that has been in her family for generations. She’s moving into town to renovate and open a small store left to her by her uncle. She was widowed 8 years ago when an ex-boyfriend, Mitchell, killed her husband in a barn fire on their property.
Mitchell went to prison for 7 years for manslaughter. He returns to his hometown looking for Julianne’s forgiveness. He’s never forgotten her or stopped loving her. When she posts a help wanted ad around town for a handyman, he shows up on her doorstep offering to work for free as penance. Reluctantly, after her hired hand is injured, she lets him help her.
Vandalizing incidents start happening after Mitchell returns to town. Her store is destroyed more than once. Julianne isn’t sure if Mitchell is behind them. Mitchell and Julianne’s families have a long standing feud going. The only one who knows why is Mitchell’s dad, and he isn’t talking.
This story moves very slowly and you see everything coming before it happens. Bad guys are easily picked out early on. I just didn’t connect with these characters. I had a hard time believing Julianne would let someone convicted of burning her husband alive anywhere near her, much less let him work for her or fall in love with him.
I voluntarily reviewed an ARC provided by NetGalley.
Julianne is selling the pig farm that has been in her family for generations. She’s moving into town to renovate and open a small store left to her by her uncle. She was widowed 8 years ago when an ex-boyfriend, Mitchell, killed her husband in a barn fire on their property.
Mitchell went to prison for 7 years for manslaughter. He returns to his hometown looking for Julianne’s forgiveness. He’s never forgotten her or stopped loving her. When she posts a help wanted ad around town for a handyman, he shows up on her doorstep offering to work for free as penance. Reluctantly, after her hired hand is injured, she lets him help her.
Vandalizing incidents start happening after Mitchell returns to town. Her store is destroyed more than once. Julianne isn’t sure if Mitchell is behind them. Mitchell and Julianne’s families have a long standing feud going. The only one who knows why is Mitchell’s dad, and he isn’t talking.
This story moves very slowly and you see everything coming before it happens. Bad guys are easily picked out early on. I just didn’t connect with these characters. I had a hard time believing Julianne would let someone convicted of burning her husband alive anywhere near her, much less let him work for her or fall in love with him.
I voluntarily reviewed an ARC provided by NetGalley.
February 7, 2017
Covers are hugely important when I choose a book and this was a fabulous pick. I can't resist a cowboy. This was a new author for me and she didn't disappoint. A heartbreaking love story, a family feud, an ex-con and a lovable stray dog made this one of the best books of the year, so far. The characters were full of passion, some for love others for hatred, and told a rich story. It's unfortunate when another's feud takes over the next generation, they just accept it without knowing, and it ruins lives. Full of second chances and gripping suspense this book has something for everyone. I was on the edge and found myself speed reading to find out what happens. I received an advanced copy through Netgalley and have written my review voluntarily.
March 28, 2021
Small Town Romance WITHOUT The Usual “Chicken Soup For The Reader’s Soul” Feel
This is my first experience with Ms. Harrington’s writings and I have to conclude that it was a story worth reading. Small town settings have always been a draw for me primarily due to the fact that life always appeared more comfortable, simplistic and authentic with colorful characters supportive of each other. The stories would be classified as a “feel good” novel. That being said, if you are looking for this type of read in THIS story, you would be sadly mistaken.
Ms. Harrington penned a heart wrenching story of a town struggling to gain the interesting of tourists and to become viable. There appears to be little opportunity for personal growth and advancement. There is a family feud, secrets, young hearts destined for a painstaking journey to their HEA, poverty, and dysfunctional families. Ms. Harrington does a great job characterizing and developing an individual’s sociopathic behavior as well as depicting individuals with amazing resiliency. Each of these elements weave an intricate web and are masterfully crafted by the author creating a satisfying read. This story is captivating, though at times passages are repetitive.
Ms. Harrington’s novel did not explicitly write profanity though use of profanity was eluded to. Also the sex scenes were tastefully written lacking detailed, descriptive narratives. Yet readers would find her writing style satisfying and not lacking in creating “feels” essential for reading enjoyment.
The climax and conclusion had me breathing a sigh of relief and an inward cheer that good things come to good people and justice prevails.
The Audible companion to this book is stellar!!!! Without a doubt adds to the storytelling. I would recommend this book (and Audible) and I’ve discovered a new author to add to my collection.
This is my first experience with Ms. Harrington’s writings and I have to conclude that it was a story worth reading. Small town settings have always been a draw for me primarily due to the fact that life always appeared more comfortable, simplistic and authentic with colorful characters supportive of each other. The stories would be classified as a “feel good” novel. That being said, if you are looking for this type of read in THIS story, you would be sadly mistaken.
Ms. Harrington penned a heart wrenching story of a town struggling to gain the interesting of tourists and to become viable. There appears to be little opportunity for personal growth and advancement. There is a family feud, secrets, young hearts destined for a painstaking journey to their HEA, poverty, and dysfunctional families. Ms. Harrington does a great job characterizing and developing an individual’s sociopathic behavior as well as depicting individuals with amazing resiliency. Each of these elements weave an intricate web and are masterfully crafted by the author creating a satisfying read. This story is captivating, though at times passages are repetitive.
Ms. Harrington’s novel did not explicitly write profanity though use of profanity was eluded to. Also the sex scenes were tastefully written lacking detailed, descriptive narratives. Yet readers would find her writing style satisfying and not lacking in creating “feels” essential for reading enjoyment.
The climax and conclusion had me breathing a sigh of relief and an inward cheer that good things come to good people and justice prevails.
The Audible companion to this book is stellar!!!! Without a doubt adds to the storytelling. I would recommend this book (and Audible) and I’ve discovered a new author to add to my collection.
January 16, 2019
WOW! This book keeps you reading from beginning to end because of the many twist and turns in the lives of the main characters. A devastating fire in which a young husband is killed and the former secret boyfriend of the wife is charged with arson and manslaughter and is sentenced to seven years in prison. His sentence served he returns to his home town to seek forgiveness from the young widow. She wants nothing to do with him and most of the town "hates" him being there because of the reputation for meanness of his family. The widow has been left both the farm where the fire occurred and an old, rundown store in town. She is moving to the apartment of the store and wants to redo the store and start over again, herself. But the mean family that has been feuding with the girls for ages and a couple of other characters do everything that they can to destroy her efforts. In the meantime, she is beginning to once again trust the young man and things are also happening to him by those who don't want them to be together. Of course, in any romance novel, the story ends as they marry and open an Bed and Breakfast on the farm property, repair all the damage done to the store and they start their new life in love. You will enjoy this book.
December 1, 2024
This one was tough - it's really damn well written and the plot clips along like nobody's business. It was engaging with interesting characters and some gasp-worthy drama bombs and reveals going on.
But first and foremost I am a romance addict, and I am 100% here for the love story. The problem I had was, well, the hero was way too much of a loser. He let the heroine down *badly* when he was younger, he didn't have her back, he was immature and reckless and took her for granted.
Then as an adult, he *still* lets her down badly. He tries to make her feel bad for choices she made when she was young, he seemed really unbothered that he had lost a daughter, he refused (even after an argument) to go with her to keep her safe when she begged him to, he was OK with calling the dog knucklehead and didn't understand why she wanted to give it a loving name, he lost faith in her and blamed her right away when he lost his baseball gig, he flounced off to have a fight after she begged him not to (even after telling him her husband died after flouncing off and her begging him not to)...
Urgh...
It was all just so much loser, let-down, not ever being enough of a good man for her. I felt like she settled with the shittest man in town.
But first and foremost I am a romance addict, and I am 100% here for the love story. The problem I had was, well, the hero was way too much of a loser. He let the heroine down *badly* when he was younger, he didn't have her back, he was immature and reckless and took her for granted.
Then as an adult, he *still* lets her down badly. He tries to make her feel bad for choices she made when she was young, he seemed really unbothered that he had lost a daughter, he refused (even after an argument) to go with her to keep her safe when she begged him to, he was OK with calling the dog knucklehead and didn't understand why she wanted to give it a loving name, he lost faith in her and blamed her right away when he lost his baseball gig, he flounced off to have a fight after she begged him not to (even after telling him her husband died after flouncing off and her begging him not to)...
Urgh...
It was all just so much loser, let-down, not ever being enough of a good man for her. I felt like she settled with the shittest man in town.
May 25, 2017
One of the best things about preparing for an author signing is meeting new authors. I had never heard of Alexis Harrington until she popped up on the PiP list. I have to admit some of her books were not my cup of tea, but this one was right up my alley.
Alexis Harrington did not disappoint. The paperback has been ordered to take to Portland. I cannot wait to go all fan girl.
One of the things about this book that I really liked multiple villains. The deeper I got into to the story, the more curious I became. Who the heck was really after Julianne? Where they after Mitchell? How far would they go? Apparently pretty far.
This is a second chance romance, that I didn't think had a chance in a million. Persistence is the key. Mitchell's devotion was never in doubt. Everything else was up to question. Seven years in prison helped him mature. Seven years in prison made his heart grow fonder. Seven years in prison gave him lots of knowledge about human behavior. Seven years in prison gave him an inner strength that he will have to call on time and again. Seven years away did not lesson Julianne's hatred. Mitchell will have to do that now. But how????
Alexis Harrington did not disappoint. The paperback has been ordered to take to Portland. I cannot wait to go all fan girl.
One of the things about this book that I really liked multiple villains. The deeper I got into to the story, the more curious I became. Who the heck was really after Julianne? Where they after Mitchell? How far would they go? Apparently pretty far.
This is a second chance romance, that I didn't think had a chance in a million. Persistence is the key. Mitchell's devotion was never in doubt. Everything else was up to question. Seven years in prison helped him mature. Seven years in prison made his heart grow fonder. Seven years in prison gave him lots of knowledge about human behavior. Seven years in prison gave him an inner strength that he will have to call on time and again. Seven years away did not lesson Julianne's hatred. Mitchell will have to do that now. But how????
April 15, 2019
Good story!
Well told story, nicely paced, knowable characters. I liked that the main lady character was no girly girl but a realistic woman. The chemistry between main characters was obvious and easy. I pretty much read it in one sitting. I started out listening to the audiobook and was very pleased with the narration. I switched to reading so I could get the story faster, and it means a lot to me that the book was proofread and professionally written.
I did deduct one star over a personal beef of mine, which would probably not matter to most readers. I was a clinical social worker, and did some work in the prison system. There were inaccurate perceptions on that, and at one point domestic violence “batterers” were categorized with drug offenders. It reminded me I was reading a made up story, as inmates, in my experience, don’t categorize those two together. Yeah...I’m nitpicking. The rest of the story was so realistic that part glared at me.
Overall, very fine book!
Well told story, nicely paced, knowable characters. I liked that the main lady character was no girly girl but a realistic woman. The chemistry between main characters was obvious and easy. I pretty much read it in one sitting. I started out listening to the audiobook and was very pleased with the narration. I switched to reading so I could get the story faster, and it means a lot to me that the book was proofread and professionally written.
I did deduct one star over a personal beef of mine, which would probably not matter to most readers. I was a clinical social worker, and did some work in the prison system. There were inaccurate perceptions on that, and at one point domestic violence “batterers” were categorized with drug offenders. It reminded me I was reading a made up story, as inmates, in my experience, don’t categorize those two together. Yeah...I’m nitpicking. The rest of the story was so realistic that part glared at me.
Overall, very fine book!
March 23, 2023
5/5 stars!
This is one of the best books Iv read on my Kindle for a long time! Kindle Unlimited has so many gems. This book is so hot, romantic, angsty, intense, full of drama! I could not put this down it was insanely good. This book has all the best tropes up it sleeve. Lovers to enemies to lovers, forbidden romance, small town romance. I love every twist and turn even down to the romance being perfect. The pacing was just right and you could feel how Julianne and Mitch loved each other. The tension right from the start was immaculate. So attentive with each other.
I loved the thrill to this book as well with the intense stalking and pranking (even though who was doing it was very obvious I knew a certain character couldn’t be trusted from the beginning) that was even more added intrigue. I was never bored the pacing in general was just right. I really want to read a similar book to this and even explore what more to read from this author defiantly a gem!
This is one of the best books Iv read on my Kindle for a long time! Kindle Unlimited has so many gems. This book is so hot, romantic, angsty, intense, full of drama! I could not put this down it was insanely good. This book has all the best tropes up it sleeve. Lovers to enemies to lovers, forbidden romance, small town romance. I love every twist and turn even down to the romance being perfect. The pacing was just right and you could feel how Julianne and Mitch loved each other. The tension right from the start was immaculate. So attentive with each other.
I loved the thrill to this book as well with the intense stalking and pranking (even though who was doing it was very obvious I knew a certain character couldn’t be trusted from the beginning) that was even more added intrigue. I was never bored the pacing in general was just right. I really want to read a similar book to this and even explore what more to read from this author defiantly a gem!
November 29, 2017
Another great read by Alexis Harrington. I have enjoyed many of her books and was excited to read her new release. I won a copy of this book through Goodreads Giveaways.
This is an excellent story of romance, heartbreak, tragedy, and forgiveness. Juli and Mitchell fall in love at a very young age, but are unable to be open about it due to a family feud they know nothing about. Then tragedy strikes and both of their lives are changed forever. After Mitchell is released from prison he goes back to find Juli and ask for forgiveness so he can move on. Little does Mitchell know what he is in for by going back to his home town. There is one struggle after another for both Juli and Mitchell, but secrets are finally revealed and eventually wrongs are righted.
There are a lot of twists and turns that keep the story interesting and exciting. A quick, clean romantic mystery/suspense.
This is an excellent story of romance, heartbreak, tragedy, and forgiveness. Juli and Mitchell fall in love at a very young age, but are unable to be open about it due to a family feud they know nothing about. Then tragedy strikes and both of their lives are changed forever. After Mitchell is released from prison he goes back to find Juli and ask for forgiveness so he can move on. Little does Mitchell know what he is in for by going back to his home town. There is one struggle after another for both Juli and Mitchell, but secrets are finally revealed and eventually wrongs are righted.
There are a lot of twists and turns that keep the story interesting and exciting. A quick, clean romantic mystery/suspense.
February 16, 2017
I received an ARC but the review is all mine. The story was set in Texas, and everything from the characters, the description of the land, the people, cars, etc... were well drawn. It was obvious from the beginning that the boy and girl were going to find love with each other again, but the journey down that dusty road was not disappointing. Nor was everything predictable. It wasn't a complete love story / romance either. There was intrigue, a crime to solve, apprehension over mounting danger, and a concern that justice might not be done. In my opinion, the cover doesn't do it justice. It made me think Harlequin Romance when it should have been more John Grisham. Without giving the story away, I can recommend reading Alexis Harrington's latest book.
January 27, 2018
i've always enjoyed reading books from this author...for this one, I was totally hooked to the storyline, while there is also mystery and suspense thrown in, it was very different than what i had been reading so far...small town rural setup...hardship and struggles to keep life/job afloat...i liked the characters of both Mitch and Juli, i felt that these were two good people with unfavourable circumstances...i was rooting for these two to get some break in their lives, otherwise it seemed like nothing was ever going right for them...so happy for their HEA:-), will definitely read more books from author!
November 23, 2023
I enjoyed AYWG as I do most of Harington's books. I liked the premise, it was different and I liked that the characters were flawed and gritty. I can't stand the trend of current books where the heros are all billionaires by the age of 25 and no one has any real struggles. These characters felt more authentic and relatable to an extent. I liked the back story and how the H/h used to be in love and were forced apart. I did feel that the feud was stupid and was hoping for a more substantial reason for the families to hate each other. The book does have a bit of a dated feel to it but I enjoyed it and give it 3.75 stars, rounding up to 4.
May 20, 2017
Alexis Harrington is well known for her historicals, like The Bridal Veil which I highly enjoyed, but she also did a very good job of writing her first contemporary book. It's not an easy story to read but don't let that stop you from picking it up. Highly recommended!
August 28, 2017
won this from goodreads for honest review...
Julianne and Mitchell have a long history and are from families that also have a history of feuding. Once young loves, the memories of her is all that got him through the long days of prison. Mitchell is returning to his small town in the hope of finding forgiveness. He spent eight years in prison for killing her husband.
I thought it was really well written I just didn't connect with the characters.
Julianne and Mitchell have a long history and are from families that also have a history of feuding. Once young loves, the memories of her is all that got him through the long days of prison. Mitchell is returning to his small town in the hope of finding forgiveness. He spent eight years in prison for killing her husband.
I thought it was really well written I just didn't connect with the characters.
March 22, 2020
This was an interesting book. Had never read anything by Alexis Harrington until this one. She is very good I think. She doesn't mess around and tells the story without a lot of bells and whistles. In other words she gets to the point without long, flowery descriptions or lengthy, meaningless dialogues. She also develops her main characters along the way and you either like them or you don't.
I intend to read more of her stories.
I intend to read more of her stories.
May 20, 2024
The first half was decent: deeply betrayed woman is approached by her former love. She’s hostile at first but he’s determined to make amends. He slowly wins her over and she eventually forgives him. The second half was full of a bunch of outside drama that took the focus off of what could have been a deeply moving story. I skimmed a good chunk of the second half because I lost interest.
March 9, 2017
Received as a Goodreads Giveaway....
A quick read, intriguing and interesting. Storyline was interesting and while it started to feel predictable- it did not actually turn out that way. Characters were easy to like and to dislike. An easy read.
A quick read, intriguing and interesting. Storyline was interesting and while it started to feel predictable- it did not actually turn out that way. Characters were easy to like and to dislike. An easy read.
March 20, 2017
This is a book that once you start reading, you can't put it down, so well written. The characters are so engaging and Juliane is one of the strongest women I have ever read about. Mitchell was always of the belief that it was his fault for the fire that killed Julianne's husband Wes and now that he is out of jail, he is going to do everything he can to try to put matters right.
Not that you can ever bring someone's husband back, but he will support her in any way he can, that's if she will let him on her property without killing him at first site.
Thanks to Netgalley for the opportunity to read and review.
Not that you can ever bring someone's husband back, but he will support her in any way he can, that's if she will let him on her property without killing him at first site.
Thanks to Netgalley for the opportunity to read and review.
November 13, 2017
Loved it
I haven't read Harrington since she wrote the Regency novel. I didn't know she was writing realistic fiction /mystery. I was complexly engage. Well done. Great characters. Very exciting plot.
I haven't read Harrington since she wrote the Regency novel. I didn't know she was writing realistic fiction /mystery. I was complexly engage. Well done. Great characters. Very exciting plot.
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