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Always
International bestselling author London Saint James’ first installment from Two Hearts, One Soul Duet is the epic tale of abiding love, heart-wrenching loss, and an astonishing bond that will find a way to endure.
Winter Perri never truly understood love until she met Austin Carlyle—the man who would rock her world to its foundations and give her something to believe in. But the night before they were to be married, the fairytale shattered.
Thirteen years later Winter is pulled out of her seclusion only to have a painful past confront her, and when it does, she’s left questioning reality, because the impossible is looking back at her with the face of a destroying angel, and piercing eyes in too familiar shades of blue.
Winter Perri never truly understood love until she met Austin Carlyle—the man who would rock her world to its foundations and give her something to believe in. But the night before they were to be married, the fairytale shattered.
Thirteen years later Winter is pulled out of her seclusion only to have a painful past confront her, and when it does, she’s left questioning reality, because the impossible is looking back at her with the face of a destroying angel, and piercing eyes in too familiar shades of blue.
312 pages, Kindle Edition
Published April 6, 2017
3 people are currently reading
33 people want to read
About the author
London Saint James
33 books188 followersLondon Saint James has lived in many places, but never felt “at home” until she met the real-life man of her dreams and settled down in the beautiful Smoky Mountains of Tennessee. London lives with her husband and their fat cat who thinks he owns them.
As an award-winning, international bestselling author, London is living her childhood dream. She knew all the scribbling she did, that big imagination of hers, and all those clamoring characters running around in her head would pay off someday.
As an award-winning, international bestselling author, London is living her childhood dream. She knew all the scribbling she did, that big imagination of hers, and all those clamoring characters running around in her head would pay off someday.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 34 reviews
April 27, 2018
Overall Rate: 4
Performance Rate: 4
Story Rate: 4
Always is a well constructed romance (Book one of a duet) initially focussing on the blossoming romance of Winter and Austin. Their love story begins in college, and after several years of dating they are about to be married when an accident changes the path of Winter’s life. Winters story is then set 13 years in the future (In the present time). Winter receives a call that makes her past, present and future collide.
Tor Thom and Charley Ongel work really well together (This was my first experience of their work) and they do a good job of keeping the story and emotion flowing throughout. They differentiate the different characters and their personalities well. One criticism that I do have is that the English accent wasn’t great but with that exception it is nicely narrated.
One thing I really disliked was the sound effects. I don’t think they are necessary and they do interrupt the flow of the story.
This is a well written, emotional story, a second chance romance with a difference. I look forward to the story continuing in part two of this duet.
I received these audiobooks as part of my participation in a blog tour with Audiobookworm Promotions. The tour is being sponsored by London Saint James. The gifting of these audiobooks did not affect my opinion of them.
Performance Rate: 4
Story Rate: 4
Always is a well constructed romance (Book one of a duet) initially focussing on the blossoming romance of Winter and Austin. Their love story begins in college, and after several years of dating they are about to be married when an accident changes the path of Winter’s life. Winters story is then set 13 years in the future (In the present time). Winter receives a call that makes her past, present and future collide.
Tor Thom and Charley Ongel work really well together (This was my first experience of their work) and they do a good job of keeping the story and emotion flowing throughout. They differentiate the different characters and their personalities well. One criticism that I do have is that the English accent wasn’t great but with that exception it is nicely narrated.
One thing I really disliked was the sound effects. I don’t think they are necessary and they do interrupt the flow of the story.
This is a well written, emotional story, a second chance romance with a difference. I look forward to the story continuing in part two of this duet.
I received these audiobooks as part of my participation in a blog tour with Audiobookworm Promotions. The tour is being sponsored by London Saint James. The gifting of these audiobooks did not affect my opinion of them.
April 5, 2017
The story has several ups and downs, making me feel like I was on an emotional roller coaster, you know the kind you can’t wait to get back on again. I can't wait to read what happens in the next book!
Always is an exceptional romance that I would recommend again and again! http://thetbrpile.weebly.com/reviews/...
Always is an exceptional romance that I would recommend again and again! http://thetbrpile.weebly.com/reviews/...
March 26, 2017
Absolutely brilliant! Ms. St. James has written a masterpiece that will have you laughing, crying, hoping, and believing in the beauty of true love.
October 6, 2017
WOW the audio book is great
I got the book as audio it is full size book it had 60 chapter and what the book is about waitress/ college student who was working as a waitress to make money for school.Well the girl is all way running late with classes she runs to her dorm room lucky i only have me and it a mess so what no room mate.Well winter why i have the name i don.t know but it OK.
Winter work in restaurant and the boss was a ass in half . Well she get to work an then her boss who is total jerk say your working to closing and your going to not say nothing oh well.I go to a table and then the guys are some rich high tech jerks they thing they own every thing and any body they brag on all and any thing.
Well winter ask them if they were finished and then they say yea but they are making side bets on who going to take her home. Winter said to them well none won and they are ticked well winter has to put up with the boss ,Wow a hunk walk in and his name is Austin and he a hunk and friend of the boss.
Well Austin ask Winter out and then she said yes you see Austin was not play boy he want to find love and now he think he might have found the one
LIKE I SAID THE BOOK IS GREAT BOOK AND KEEP YOU IN TO THE BOOK I LOVE THE WAY THE BOOK WAS WRITTEN AND NARRIIATED
I got the book as audio it is full size book it had 60 chapter and what the book is about waitress/ college student who was working as a waitress to make money for school.Well the girl is all way running late with classes she runs to her dorm room lucky i only have me and it a mess so what no room mate.Well winter why i have the name i don.t know but it OK.
Winter work in restaurant and the boss was a ass in half . Well she get to work an then her boss who is total jerk say your working to closing and your going to not say nothing oh well.I go to a table and then the guys are some rich high tech jerks they thing they own every thing and any body they brag on all and any thing.
Well winter ask them if they were finished and then they say yea but they are making side bets on who going to take her home. Winter said to them well none won and they are ticked well winter has to put up with the boss ,Wow a hunk walk in and his name is Austin and he a hunk and friend of the boss.
Well Austin ask Winter out and then she said yes you see Austin was not play boy he want to find love and now he think he might have found the one
LIKE I SAID THE BOOK IS GREAT BOOK AND KEEP YOU IN TO THE BOOK I LOVE THE WAY THE BOOK WAS WRITTEN AND NARRIIATED
October 4, 2017
This has been quite a roller coaster! A love story about heartbreaks and second chances. Winter Perri and Austin Carlyle had it good when they started seeing each other, I thought there's was quite romantic and sensational.. Until everything shattered to pieces on the eve of their wedding day, and I thought I wouldn't be able to recover myself.
I really thought there's nothing more that would make me cry the moment Winter Perri's body had gone limp upon hearing the news about her beloved. My heart bled out to oblivion. When I continued with the story, I was expecting a lighter mood surrounding Winter. But lo and behold, Chandler and Cayden Cain's involvement in this frozen fairytale got me shocked and gutted. I told myself, this better not be another new lovestory destined to end in doom. But as the pages went, my eyes continued to go misty until I got to the last page and my eyes were already dripping and my nose swollen and my mouth quivering. Gosh, I couldn't stop my ugly crying!
This story had been long and winding, I thought I wouldn't be able to finish it. But I did. And I'm glad I did even though I cried 90% of the time. I'm glad I read this because it reminded me about life, about the people we love, about how precious every second of time is. This has been really a powerful book, something that I would cherish forever and always.
This is my first London Saint James book, and even though she had me wailing like a harpy, I am looking forward to reading more of her books soon!
I really thought there's nothing more that would make me cry the moment Winter Perri's body had gone limp upon hearing the news about her beloved. My heart bled out to oblivion. When I continued with the story, I was expecting a lighter mood surrounding Winter. But lo and behold, Chandler and Cayden Cain's involvement in this frozen fairytale got me shocked and gutted. I told myself, this better not be another new lovestory destined to end in doom. But as the pages went, my eyes continued to go misty until I got to the last page and my eyes were already dripping and my nose swollen and my mouth quivering. Gosh, I couldn't stop my ugly crying!
This story had been long and winding, I thought I wouldn't be able to finish it. But I did. And I'm glad I did even though I cried 90% of the time. I'm glad I read this because it reminded me about life, about the people we love, about how precious every second of time is. This has been really a powerful book, something that I would cherish forever and always.
This is my first London Saint James book, and even though she had me wailing like a harpy, I am looking forward to reading more of her books soon!
April 9, 2017
I think I've got a case of whiplash from how hard the theme changed smack bang in the middle of this book. The first half was the sweetest, fluffiest romance I've ever read... seriously, I was reading a lot of it with raised eyebrows, wondering where the heck the conflict was going to come from, or if there was even going to be any.
And then BAM.
Without any warning, all that sweet fluffiness is ripped away, and the entire second half of the book is basically just one massive storm of angst. I actually enjoyed the second half a lot better; the first was way too sickly for my taste.
I think I'd have liked this book a lot better if it had started in the middle, with Winter being reluctant to return to New York, and we'd had her and Austin's story told in flashbacks. As it was, they just felt too sickly-perfect to be real, and we didn't get to meet Cayden - technically the real love interest in the book - until 70% of the way through. We never really got to know him. In fact, I thought the 'man in the elevator' who turned out to be Cayden's BROTHER - was going to end up being the love interest.
The sort-of reincarnation thing that was going on actually made me feel slightly icky. Cayden was 10 when the accident happened and he basically got 'taken over' without his will or consent.
I feel like this would have been a much better story if it was a true 'second-chance romance' rather than a contrived supernatural solution. It was pretty well-written, though with a few editing issues like "our body's moved together" where it should obviously be 'bodies', and a few cases of hysterically overblown prose... I mean that literally, I had a laughing fit at the description of a cherry tomato as a 'round red temptress'.
I didn't hate this, but it wasn't really my cup of tea, and I think a darn good editing to rearrange the emotional themes of the book it would be a lot better. I'm giving it three stars.
Disclaimer: I received a copy of this book for review through ReadingAlley.
And then BAM.
Without any warning, all that sweet fluffiness is ripped away, and the entire second half of the book is basically just one massive storm of angst. I actually enjoyed the second half a lot better; the first was way too sickly for my taste.
I think I'd have liked this book a lot better if it had started in the middle, with Winter being reluctant to return to New York, and we'd had her and Austin's story told in flashbacks. As it was, they just felt too sickly-perfect to be real, and we didn't get to meet Cayden - technically the real love interest in the book - until 70% of the way through. We never really got to know him. In fact, I thought the 'man in the elevator' who turned out to be Cayden's BROTHER - was going to end up being the love interest.
The sort-of reincarnation thing that was going on actually made me feel slightly icky. Cayden was 10 when the accident happened and he basically got 'taken over' without his will or consent.
I feel like this would have been a much better story if it was a true 'second-chance romance' rather than a contrived supernatural solution. It was pretty well-written, though with a few editing issues like "our body's moved together" where it should obviously be 'bodies', and a few cases of hysterically overblown prose... I mean that literally, I had a laughing fit at the description of a cherry tomato as a 'round red temptress'.
I didn't hate this, but it wasn't really my cup of tea, and I think a darn good editing to rearrange the emotional themes of the book it would be a lot better. I'm giving it three stars.
Disclaimer: I received a copy of this book for review through ReadingAlley.
October 13, 2017
Winter Perri was living her life without really living, but all that changed when he came into her life. He loved her more than life itself and strives to show just how special she is, how beautiful she is, how loved she is every single day. He opened her eyes to a life full of hope, love, and dreams.
Everything was coming together just as he promised her it would and couldn't wait to start their life together as husband and wife.
But then her life gets turned upside and sends her into a tailspin. Finally like a part of her soul is forever gone, she leaves behind everything and starts a more secluded life. Life will never be the same but this change makes it somewhat more manageable.
When she receives an unexpected call, her life is about to be turned upside once again. Will she be able to handle this turn of events? Will this be just too much for her broken heart? Or can this be the one thing that will bring her broken pieces back together?
First off I must advise before you pick up Always you need to get a box or two of tissues.
Seriously, Always is a read that will make you smile, make you swoon, break your heart, and then slowly mend your heart and give you hope.
I love how Austin approached his relationship with Winter right from the start. His devotion to her is phenomenal and will make you weak in the knees. There really isn't anything he wouldn't do for her.
Winter is stunning and I really connected with her. She comes into herself under Austin's praise and support. What I love is that she is so much stronger then she believes she is. She's been through tough times and good, but survives is all.
The emotions that are filled in this read will take the reader on a journey that will take their breath away. I enjoy reading a story that will captivate you and stick with you long after you finish.
The ending is brilliant, Winter's past is standing in her front of her and it leaves you wondering what will happen next in Forever & Always.
So if you want a book that will leave you with a serious book hangover and reminds you to love your loved one today because you never know what tomorrow will bring, then I highly recommend you pick up Always.
Everything was coming together just as he promised her it would and couldn't wait to start their life together as husband and wife.
But then her life gets turned upside and sends her into a tailspin. Finally like a part of her soul is forever gone, she leaves behind everything and starts a more secluded life. Life will never be the same but this change makes it somewhat more manageable.
When she receives an unexpected call, her life is about to be turned upside once again. Will she be able to handle this turn of events? Will this be just too much for her broken heart? Or can this be the one thing that will bring her broken pieces back together?
First off I must advise before you pick up Always you need to get a box or two of tissues.
Seriously, Always is a read that will make you smile, make you swoon, break your heart, and then slowly mend your heart and give you hope.
I love how Austin approached his relationship with Winter right from the start. His devotion to her is phenomenal and will make you weak in the knees. There really isn't anything he wouldn't do for her.
Winter is stunning and I really connected with her. She comes into herself under Austin's praise and support. What I love is that she is so much stronger then she believes she is. She's been through tough times and good, but survives is all.
The emotions that are filled in this read will take the reader on a journey that will take their breath away. I enjoy reading a story that will captivate you and stick with you long after you finish.
The ending is brilliant, Winter's past is standing in her front of her and it leaves you wondering what will happen next in Forever & Always.
So if you want a book that will leave you with a serious book hangover and reminds you to love your loved one today because you never know what tomorrow will bring, then I highly recommend you pick up Always.
September 30, 2017
5 Stars
Always, Book one in the Two Hearts One Soul Duet, was my first book by London Saint James and it will NOT be my last. London does a fantastic job of making us fall head over heels for both Winter and Austin as a couple. This story is narrated by Tor Thom and Charley Ongel and they are also "New To Me" narrators. They do a fantastic job bringing these two to life in grand form. Always is Winter's story, a story of a great love and even greater loss. Our sweet Winter finds what every woman on planet Earth wishes to have when it comes to Love. Love comes in the form of Austin, our poetic actor, and all around swoony Austin. Winter and Austin find a story book, ooey gooey love and the world is sunshine, rainbows, and roses....... until it's not. After the unthinkable tragedy strikes, Winter must find a way to live with herself and the key word is live. Enter Cayden..... oh Cayden. And I refuse to give you anymore than that. Read The Book! I am heading now to One Click Book 2 in this magnificent Duet.
Always, Book one in the Two Hearts One Soul Duet, was my first book by London Saint James and it will NOT be my last. London does a fantastic job of making us fall head over heels for both Winter and Austin as a couple. This story is narrated by Tor Thom and Charley Ongel and they are also "New To Me" narrators. They do a fantastic job bringing these two to life in grand form. Always is Winter's story, a story of a great love and even greater loss. Our sweet Winter finds what every woman on planet Earth wishes to have when it comes to Love. Love comes in the form of Austin, our poetic actor, and all around swoony Austin. Winter and Austin find a story book, ooey gooey love and the world is sunshine, rainbows, and roses....... until it's not. After the unthinkable tragedy strikes, Winter must find a way to live with herself and the key word is live. Enter Cayden..... oh Cayden. And I refuse to give you anymore than that. Read The Book! I am heading now to One Click Book 2 in this magnificent Duet.
March 25, 2017
I must say I’ve read this book in one day – so that must say something. I did enjoy it very much, especially towards the end. This emotional story about knowing love, loss and healing is breathtaking. Though I have to admit there were some parts that were not to my taste, I hereby offer my 4 stars.
The romance developed between our main character – whose POV we’re offered – and Austin. She feels this instant attraction and need to have him close. They develop something that many of us would only dream of having: a perfect life, next to our soul mate. When one life altering event occurs, she is lost; she cannot find reasons to keep going. But sometimes, things have a way of arranging themselves in the proper way. Full of emotions of all kind, this book is truly a complex work.
Speaking of complexions, aside from the romance, there are also other themes present in the book and I think this is what motivated me to keep the rating. First we have a near-rape scene – a traumatic event which can be overcome only with the help of the loved ones. Second, we have family – the idea of building a future, being with the person one loves and being able to find that balance between career and family. Being able to share every moment with the most important person in your heart. Last, but not least, the struggles that even famous people have, with the constant intrusions in their private lives. Definitely, the most important aspect is the equivalence as base of life and love. Some things might just never die. Read about it till the end, and you’ll understand what I mean.
The book is divided in three parts. First one deals with how Winter and Austin meet, how they fall in love and how they plan a life together. Part two is much more emotional and will definitely make you shed a tear. Part three brings a turnaround and here I could also feel some small glimpses into our author’s life. I somehow could feel her presence through Winter’s eyes and actions. While I enjoyed much more the second and last parts, for the first one I felt the action was dragged and with too many unnecessary descriptions. I would have wanted a little more emphasis on some scenes, and less on some others. This is my reason for one star less.
To summarize, I do believe this was a great read. If you prefer emotional stories, this is a great choice. If you are into a love that can last beyond tragedy - this is also a perfect book for you.
The romance developed between our main character – whose POV we’re offered – and Austin. She feels this instant attraction and need to have him close. They develop something that many of us would only dream of having: a perfect life, next to our soul mate. When one life altering event occurs, she is lost; she cannot find reasons to keep going. But sometimes, things have a way of arranging themselves in the proper way. Full of emotions of all kind, this book is truly a complex work.
Speaking of complexions, aside from the romance, there are also other themes present in the book and I think this is what motivated me to keep the rating. First we have a near-rape scene – a traumatic event which can be overcome only with the help of the loved ones. Second, we have family – the idea of building a future, being with the person one loves and being able to find that balance between career and family. Being able to share every moment with the most important person in your heart. Last, but not least, the struggles that even famous people have, with the constant intrusions in their private lives. Definitely, the most important aspect is the equivalence as base of life and love. Some things might just never die. Read about it till the end, and you’ll understand what I mean.
The book is divided in three parts. First one deals with how Winter and Austin meet, how they fall in love and how they plan a life together. Part two is much more emotional and will definitely make you shed a tear. Part three brings a turnaround and here I could also feel some small glimpses into our author’s life. I somehow could feel her presence through Winter’s eyes and actions. While I enjoyed much more the second and last parts, for the first one I felt the action was dragged and with too many unnecessary descriptions. I would have wanted a little more emphasis on some scenes, and less on some others. This is my reason for one star less.
To summarize, I do believe this was a great read. If you prefer emotional stories, this is a great choice. If you are into a love that can last beyond tragedy - this is also a perfect book for you.
August 24, 2019
Audio book review
Book 1 in the series. Wow what more can I say . This story is my first by the author . I like how the author built up the story with the two characters it shows what they are going through before the hero and heroine connect .
The story is more believable that way . There was an issue with Winter the heroine that Austin the hero helped her overcome. There was a hot chemistry between them . There was other issues that had them go their separate ways . Grab it and see what happens
What can I say about Tor and Charley. They are perfect together. Their performance is spot on. Their tone for the characters and happening in the story is strong, true and clear
Book 1 in the series. Wow what more can I say . This story is my first by the author . I like how the author built up the story with the two characters it shows what they are going through before the hero and heroine connect .
The story is more believable that way . There was an issue with Winter the heroine that Austin the hero helped her overcome. There was a hot chemistry between them . There was other issues that had them go their separate ways . Grab it and see what happens
What can I say about Tor and Charley. They are perfect together. Their performance is spot on. Their tone for the characters and happening in the story is strong, true and clear
October 13, 2017
Some stories just grab a hold of your from the beginning and don't let go even after the last page. This is one of those stories that blends sweet and angsty romance in a way that tugs your emotions from endearing to energetic.
When student Winter meets Austin by chance, they fall in love in such a beautiful way, nothing and no one separating them. But just before they are meant to get married, Austin is killed in an accident.
Winter is devastated and withdraws into the fictional world of writing books.
Years later she is invited back to the city she had escaped from, the city full of memories she would rather forget, for a work/movie project. Things take a bizarre turn when she meets the star of the movie who reminds her of the one person who still owns her heart.
Will Winter ever be able to get over her loss? Is there a chance for her to find love again?
You're going to have to read this beautiful book to find out what happens. Be prepared for an emotional ride. I loved Winter, her resilience, her strength, and I really wanted her to find happiness. I can't wait to find out how it all concludes in the final book.
When student Winter meets Austin by chance, they fall in love in such a beautiful way, nothing and no one separating them. But just before they are meant to get married, Austin is killed in an accident.
Winter is devastated and withdraws into the fictional world of writing books.
Years later she is invited back to the city she had escaped from, the city full of memories she would rather forget, for a work/movie project. Things take a bizarre turn when she meets the star of the movie who reminds her of the one person who still owns her heart.
Will Winter ever be able to get over her loss? Is there a chance for her to find love again?
You're going to have to read this beautiful book to find out what happens. Be prepared for an emotional ride. I loved Winter, her resilience, her strength, and I really wanted her to find happiness. I can't wait to find out how it all concludes in the final book.
September 24, 2017
Listened to the audio book. It was fabulous! Loved the narrators too!
October 5, 2017
Be ready to feel every emotion when you pick up this book! London Saint James has created a world of young love, tragedy, grieving and new chances at love. Winter and Austin are a young couple that meet and have that instant love at first sight connection. When tragedy hits, and Winter is faced with going on without Austin, she ends up just going through the motions, not getting over her grief. When a new light comes forward, it's up to Winter to decide what is real, and how her life will continue. It is amazing how this book can take you from the warmth and happiness of love to complete and total despair, then to bringing you hope. It is an emotional roller coaster that is an incredible ride and will leave you wanting the second part of this duet to find out how things work out for her. Be prepared for the book hangover!
Charley Ongel and Tor Thom give an incredibly emotional performance for this book. From start to finish, you are right there with these characters finding their way. When narrators can make you feel the elation and the pain in the story, you know it is something special. These two have given this book that performance, keeping you emotionally involved in their story.
Charley Ongel and Tor Thom give an incredibly emotional performance for this book. From start to finish, you are right there with these characters finding their way. When narrators can make you feel the elation and the pain in the story, you know it is something special. These two have given this book that performance, keeping you emotionally involved in their story.
September 12, 2017
This is an emotional story all about knowing love, loss and healing and was a truly emotional read.
Winter feels an instant attraction to Austin and they have what many of us could only dream of having. When something tragic happens she can't find the reasons to go on but things that are meant to be end up re-arranging. This book is truly full of emotion with so much detail that you are definitely drawn into their lives and you will be left still thinking about it after you have finished.
Winter feels an instant attraction to Austin and they have what many of us could only dream of having. When something tragic happens she can't find the reasons to go on but things that are meant to be end up re-arranging. This book is truly full of emotion with so much detail that you are definitely drawn into their lives and you will be left still thinking about it after you have finished.
July 3, 2017
“The moment I looked into his eyes, my world shifted. Somehow, I knew he would be the one I was meant to love.”
In some cases it is the little things that make a story unique while in others the story makes an impact to the reader due to some very important events that happened in it. For “Always” it is a mixture of both cases, there is the big twist towards the end of the book that made this book memorable to me and keeps me excited for the next installment. But there are also all the small details that kept me reading and helped with the overall impression that this book left me.
The hero and the heroine had a nice chemistry and their romance was really sweet. I liked the fact that we saw them spend plenty of time together, getting to know each other and not just having sex every time that they found some time to be alone.
I enjoyed reading about their relationship and that was because there was communication between them and there was no overdrawn drama, just a real connection. Of course it helped that the hero was very sweet, it has become very popular for romance stories to have a torture hero who treats badly the heroine and pushes her away, but I do not see why. Austin has definitely won me over with all those romantic things he did for the heroine.
As with every book though, there are some flaws in this one too. For starters, there were the chapters that seemed to me as if they started and ended at random moments and not at the end of a scene or somewhere in the middle just to create tension.
There was also the fact that the theme of the attempted rape was not handled as it should be, but was there instead to make Austin seem more heroic. The heroine might have been scared at the beginning, but a few hours later she somehow managed to feel sexual attraction to the hero and put behind her that incident without having any flashbacks or even mentioning it ever again for the rest of the book.
Finally, there is the fact that I am not sure if the hero was as devoted as the heroine was to their relationship.
If the hero was not as devoted then that means that this book has double standards about the devotion that women and men must have to their partner. Since the story doesn’t clearly show if the hero remained devoted or not I choose to believe that he did, but if I find any evidence for the opposite in the next book I will probably change my rating.
I voluntarily reviewed the free copy that i received via Reading Alley.
August 30, 2017
This was my first book by this author. I enjoyed the book but I will say that it took a bit for me to get into it as I felt the first part was a bit too sweet. People are always looking for their soulmate and they clearly found it but it just seemed like everything was wonderful and they lived in a bubble.
The author wrote Winter in such a way that the reader will feel each emotion that she is going through. You will be happy, shed tears and be amazed when love returns.
The hero is written well but there are times that I wasn't sure if he felt they were soul mates as much as she did.
I will read other books by this author and think this would be a good introduction to the author for anyone looking for a new author.
I was given this book and am leaving an honest voluntary review.
The author wrote Winter in such a way that the reader will feel each emotion that she is going through. You will be happy, shed tears and be amazed when love returns.
The hero is written well but there are times that I wasn't sure if he felt they were soul mates as much as she did.
I will read other books by this author and think this would be a good introduction to the author for anyone looking for a new author.
I was given this book and am leaving an honest voluntary review.
April 21, 2017
Oh my God! Damn what a book. Now that I composed myself I think I can honestly review this book now. This book this extremely well-crafted. It has a good flow and is easy to read.
This book is about winter Perry. In her great love for Austin. I need to warn you. You will need a full box of tissues for this book. It is a sweet and wonderful stories love, Los and love again. But halfway through this book, tragedy strikes. And if you're a sappy person like me you'll be crying so have those tissues handy the love winter has for Austin is true soul mates kind of love. A love that she thought she would never feel again. But then something truly amazing happens and I won’t say what but I was like holy hell when I read the bonus scene. And a little ticked off at one character in the book as he knew all this time he knew. I need book 2 now London's site say June and I cannot wait.
Now before I ruin this for you I will leave off here. I hope you enjoy this book as much as I did. If you do like this book, please consider leaving a review. The Authors really like it when you do; they value your opinions too
This book is about winter Perry. In her great love for Austin. I need to warn you. You will need a full box of tissues for this book. It is a sweet and wonderful stories love, Los and love again. But halfway through this book, tragedy strikes. And if you're a sappy person like me you'll be crying so have those tissues handy the love winter has for Austin is true soul mates kind of love. A love that she thought she would never feel again. But then something truly amazing happens and I won’t say what but I was like holy hell when I read the bonus scene. And a little ticked off at one character in the book as he knew all this time he knew. I need book 2 now London's site say June and I cannot wait.
Now before I ruin this for you I will leave off here. I hope you enjoy this book as much as I did. If you do like this book, please consider leaving a review. The Authors really like it when you do; they value your opinions too
May 12, 2017
I'm just going to say it. I loved this book. I love the authors writing style and creativity. Although it is a bit difficult for me to talk about the plot of this story without giving spoilers, I will attempt all the same. This story is essentially about love and love surviving all that life throws at it. It's about a woman who was lucky enough to find true love in the first place. Then, that love is shattered to pieces in an instant and her dealing with a broken heart until her past becomes present and haunts her.
Seriously. Such a good read. The author takes the reader on an emotional rollercoaster and I cannot wait for the next book!
For my full review, go to:
http://bookjunkiemom.blogspot.com/201...
Seriously. Such a good read. The author takes the reader on an emotional rollercoaster and I cannot wait for the next book!
For my full review, go to:
http://bookjunkiemom.blogspot.com/201...
April 29, 2018
What made the experience of listening to Always the most enjoyable?
I would have to say that Mr. Thom and Ms. Ongel are what made this story come to life. I can honestly say that I have a major crush on this couple. One thing that was a surprise, and at first caught me off guard, was the use of sound effects.
What other book might you compare Always to and why?
I can't compare. It's not fair to those that narrate or to the authors. Plus you would have to read a book where the plot is similar in order to do that. And that might take a while in finding just the right combination in order to see the similiarities or differences between the two books. The only thing you could do is to compare this to the second book in the series.
What does Charley Ongel and Tor Thom bring to the story that you wouldn’t experience if you just read the book?
I have no trouble imagining our narrators as Winter and Austin. They help me picture what our characters may look and act like. If there had been two other voice actors my experience may not have been the same. Now that I've heard them, I can't picture anyone else in the role.
Was there a moment in the book that particularly moved you?
There was a moment that did move me but if I tell you than it may ruin your own experience. I had the perfect experience and I can't wait to get to part two - oh wait, as I write this I'm already listening to "Forever & Always".
Any additional comments?
This is a story that starts when our couple is in college and we get to see what life is like for them as they "age". It's a reminder that our lives are not set in stone and that things can happen to change our course. And it shows that some things may be possible. Would I go back and read the book? I don't know how I could because I loved this experience. It's an experience I hope to enjoy more than once - especially after I get finished with part two.
I did have an issue with the sound on this. I don't think it was an issue the the book itself but it could have been my iPod. That was the only distraction that I had while listening but not something that I could avoid. There's a need to think of something else, or in this case listen to something else, as you do an activity that you really get no joy from. You need to have a way to distract the mind from a mindless task and I can't think of a better book or better narrators to help do that.
I voluntarily reviewed an Audiobook copy of this book.
I would have to say that Mr. Thom and Ms. Ongel are what made this story come to life. I can honestly say that I have a major crush on this couple. One thing that was a surprise, and at first caught me off guard, was the use of sound effects.
What other book might you compare Always to and why?
I can't compare. It's not fair to those that narrate or to the authors. Plus you would have to read a book where the plot is similar in order to do that. And that might take a while in finding just the right combination in order to see the similiarities or differences between the two books. The only thing you could do is to compare this to the second book in the series.
What does Charley Ongel and Tor Thom bring to the story that you wouldn’t experience if you just read the book?
I have no trouble imagining our narrators as Winter and Austin. They help me picture what our characters may look and act like. If there had been two other voice actors my experience may not have been the same. Now that I've heard them, I can't picture anyone else in the role.
Was there a moment in the book that particularly moved you?
There was a moment that did move me but if I tell you than it may ruin your own experience. I had the perfect experience and I can't wait to get to part two - oh wait, as I write this I'm already listening to "Forever & Always".
Any additional comments?
This is a story that starts when our couple is in college and we get to see what life is like for them as they "age". It's a reminder that our lives are not set in stone and that things can happen to change our course. And it shows that some things may be possible. Would I go back and read the book? I don't know how I could because I loved this experience. It's an experience I hope to enjoy more than once - especially after I get finished with part two.
I did have an issue with the sound on this. I don't think it was an issue the the book itself but it could have been my iPod. That was the only distraction that I had while listening but not something that I could avoid. There's a need to think of something else, or in this case listen to something else, as you do an activity that you really get no joy from. You need to have a way to distract the mind from a mindless task and I can't think of a better book or better narrators to help do that.
I voluntarily reviewed an Audiobook copy of this book.
April 20, 2018
I finished listening to this book the other day and I’m still not sure how to write this review for such an extraordinary story. I love the narrating duo of Charley Ongel and Tor Thom. This is not the first book I have listened to by these two narrators, but it is the first book I have read by London Saint James. I’ve already started on book two as this is one author I want to read more from.
Winter Perri is not your usual female leading character and I can’t really say too much without giving spoilers away. Yes, the book is told completely in her point of view so the duel narration is really great to have both a female and male character talking within the same scene it helps with the mindset of the characters. It is awesome. It really enhances the listening experience and the way these narrators changed up their voices for different male or female characters made it very easy to follow the story. I love how there were even various sound effects in the audio. The emotions the narrators portrayed really made it feel as if I were in the story. Is this an emotional book, yes, yes, it is and will you want to have some tissues handy, yes, yes you do. There are a some dark moments as well as those tearful moments but there are plenty of fun times, too. There is so much I would love to say about this story, but I can’t without giving spoilers. I can say that I loved how the author really developed the characters and their relationships. This story takes place over many years and it is not a simple quick listen as there is so much meat packed in here. From the synopsis I wasn’t really sure about wanting to listen to the book, but when I saw who the narrators were, I couldn’t pass it up and I am so glad to have had the opportunity to have listened to it. There were many things I didn’t expect or see coming. I knew of one event that was going to happen from the synopsis and wondered about another which kept me guessing which just added to the enjoyment of the is story and it was so not what I expected. Yes, this story is very much about two hearts and one soul.
Winter Perri is not your usual female leading character and I can’t really say too much without giving spoilers away. Yes, the book is told completely in her point of view so the duel narration is really great to have both a female and male character talking within the same scene it helps with the mindset of the characters. It is awesome. It really enhances the listening experience and the way these narrators changed up their voices for different male or female characters made it very easy to follow the story. I love how there were even various sound effects in the audio. The emotions the narrators portrayed really made it feel as if I were in the story. Is this an emotional book, yes, yes, it is and will you want to have some tissues handy, yes, yes you do. There are a some dark moments as well as those tearful moments but there are plenty of fun times, too. There is so much I would love to say about this story, but I can’t without giving spoilers. I can say that I loved how the author really developed the characters and their relationships. This story takes place over many years and it is not a simple quick listen as there is so much meat packed in here. From the synopsis I wasn’t really sure about wanting to listen to the book, but when I saw who the narrators were, I couldn’t pass it up and I am so glad to have had the opportunity to have listened to it. There were many things I didn’t expect or see coming. I knew of one event that was going to happen from the synopsis and wondered about another which kept me guessing which just added to the enjoyment of the is story and it was so not what I expected. Yes, this story is very much about two hearts and one soul.
March 28, 2017
Prepare To Cry Your Eyes Out!
Oh, wow. Where to begin with this book review?
It's really hard to describe the plot of the book without giving away the story, so I will be a bit vague about it. What it is about is true love that endures all. The kind that every woman dreams about and would sell their soul to find in any lifetime. It's about how one woman found it through sheer luck at first, and through a miracle the next.
Author London St James took me on one great roller coaster romance ride and now my husband thinks he married a nut, because while reading this book, I laughed, I cried, and I sighed a lot. Suffice to say that you should have a box of tissues ready before you read this book. You have been warned.
What is not to love about the characters? They are oh-so-endearing and they will probably make you feel quite sentimental or hopeful. Regardless, they will surely make you feel like a hopeless romantic with each page. The pace is quite good. I opened the book intending to read only a few pages, but ended up finishing everything in one sitting.
There was a moment in the latter part of the book where I thought the development for the new character was out of whack, but boy-oh-boy, was I glad I'm wrong. When I read the Bonus scene, all I could manage to whisper was, "Daaaang." Yep.
If you're a believer of possibilities, you will definitely enjoy this book; and I would definitely recommend this to anyone who knows or wants to know how it is to feel really head over heels in love.
*I was provided with a free copy in exchange for an honest and unbiased review.
Oh, wow. Where to begin with this book review?
It's really hard to describe the plot of the book without giving away the story, so I will be a bit vague about it. What it is about is true love that endures all. The kind that every woman dreams about and would sell their soul to find in any lifetime. It's about how one woman found it through sheer luck at first, and through a miracle the next.
Author London St James took me on one great roller coaster romance ride and now my husband thinks he married a nut, because while reading this book, I laughed, I cried, and I sighed a lot. Suffice to say that you should have a box of tissues ready before you read this book. You have been warned.
What is not to love about the characters? They are oh-so-endearing and they will probably make you feel quite sentimental or hopeful. Regardless, they will surely make you feel like a hopeless romantic with each page. The pace is quite good. I opened the book intending to read only a few pages, but ended up finishing everything in one sitting.
There was a moment in the latter part of the book where I thought the development for the new character was out of whack, but boy-oh-boy, was I glad I'm wrong. When I read the Bonus scene, all I could manage to whisper was, "Daaaang." Yep.
If you're a believer of possibilities, you will definitely enjoy this book; and I would definitely recommend this to anyone who knows or wants to know how it is to feel really head over heels in love.
*I was provided with a free copy in exchange for an honest and unbiased review.
March 17, 2018
This audio was very well performed for a story that I believe was a bit too long. The blurb about the story does not prepare you for what actually happens. Which is not a bad thing, I was definitely surprised. The first third of this listen is sweet and a bit slow. It’s all about Winter finding her soulmate Austin. They have such an easy connection that I think the anticipation of the drama is what made it seem prolonged to me.
Once the second half started BAM it all turns and emotions get real. (Cue tears) lots of them.
The third half is Winter, years later, returning to a city full of memories that she would rather forget. This is where everything turns direction and I feel the story goes into a different genre. I definitely cannot wait for the second audio. I don’t want to spoil it for anyone else so I won’t say anything further than that. However I have lots of questions and I need answers. I’m not sure I’ll be able to forget this audio until I get them. I definitely cannot wait for the conclusion and part two to come out.
Once the second half started BAM it all turns and emotions get real. (Cue tears) lots of them.
The third half is Winter, years later, returning to a city full of memories that she would rather forget. This is where everything turns direction and I feel the story goes into a different genre. I definitely cannot wait for the second audio. I don’t want to spoil it for anyone else so I won’t say anything further than that. However I have lots of questions and I need answers. I’m not sure I’ll be able to forget this audio until I get them. I definitely cannot wait for the conclusion and part two to come out.
April 24, 2018
This book started out great. A bit long on the beginning of Austin and Winter's love. Then the tragedy. Very sad. But, when Caden comes into the picture and is 13 years Winter's junior, I was rooting for Chandler, more her age. Winter as a cougar ? I know, I know, "soul mates", but I still had trouble with their relationship. I know the "Bonus Scene" ties it all together. I would have preferred the "Bonus Scene" being earlier in the book. Overall, other than it being a bit too long for my liking, it was good and I will have to buy the next book just to see if it changes my opinion of this first book. I can't help my feelings on Winter's love life, but Caden just doesn't seem right. The narrators did a great job with the characters.
November 12, 2017
I can honestly say this book wrecked me emotionally. I haven't had a book do that to me in quite awhile. I bawled my eyes out for a solid half hour and couldn't stop crying once I started. The book is beautifully done. I can't bring myself to spoil anything that happened in the book. Grab a box of tissues and happy reading!
January 11, 2018
I rate it 3.5 Stars. I overall enjoyed the book. Pretty good storyline. Some parts were a little out there to me though. This book definitely has originality and even though there were subtle hints I hadn’t quite figured out where it was going until it was revealed at the end. I would definitely check out book 2. I hope it comes to audible soon! The narrators did a good job.
March 12, 2018
Always (Two Hearts, One Soul Duet: Book One by London Saint James was a great read. This book takes you on a roller coaster of emotions. This is a book that once it males you happy completely guts you. Winter Perri has lived a life of love as well as tragic loss. Winter obtained and lost her true love and soul mate. I loved reading this book and can't wait to read the rest of this series.
August 2, 2018
Excellent Narration Style!!!!
If I could, I would only choose books with this narration style. The narrators were great.
Book two had potential but I could not relate. I was a bit disappointed, the story did not have merit like the 1st one had. It was a bit superficial. And honestly, I really battled to finish this one.
If I could, I would only choose books with this narration style. The narrators were great.
Book two had potential but I could not relate. I was a bit disappointed, the story did not have merit like the 1st one had. It was a bit superficial. And honestly, I really battled to finish this one.
September 29, 2018
The reviews were so good, that I trudged through to about 80% of the way. I just couldn't get what was so brilliant and beautiful about Winter, the main character. Other than her looks of course. It was corny and waxing lyrical about how much they loved each other. So if you like over the top romance then maybe this would suit. It recapped too much for my liking too.
October 30, 2017
I have to agree with some of the reviews that this was a roller coaster of a read. Just when I thought I was gonna get my fluffy feel good romance read damn if it didnt take a sharp turn in the other directions. I love when a book can do that.
March 21, 2020
book of duology itroduse sweat and hearbreaking love story of austin ans winter
than continuing her live after tragedy full of grey dull colors i recommend many tissues
as it really hearbreaking at times while reading this my favorite of the two books
than continuing her live after tragedy full of grey dull colors i recommend many tissues
as it really hearbreaking at times while reading this my favorite of the two books
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