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Of Love and Madness #3
All I Ever Wanted
Unable to overcome the loss and betrayal she’s faced, Kate Donaldson knows there’s only one way for her to heal—and that’s to walk away from everything and pick up the pieces of her shattered life.
Cutting herself off from everyone she loves, Kate settles in on the rocky coast of southern Maine. At first wanting nothing more than to be left alone, she eventually learns to confront all her hurts except one—Billy, her estranged husband.
But when her past comes roaring back, Kate must choose between her head and her heart.
Billy McDonald has hit rock bottom. When his wife disappears, he is forced to confront his demons. Winning that battle brings success, and for the first time in more than two decades, his music career is finally about to take off. But without Katie by his side, it’s a bitter victory.
What do you do when the thing you thought you wanted isn’t really what you wanted after all?
All I Ever Wanted is the third book in the Of Love and Madness trilogy, and the conclusion of a love story that defied the odds for twenty five years. But for Kate and Billy, it’s up to them to decide if it’s the end, or only the beginning.
Cutting herself off from everyone she loves, Kate settles in on the rocky coast of southern Maine. At first wanting nothing more than to be left alone, she eventually learns to confront all her hurts except one—Billy, her estranged husband.
But when her past comes roaring back, Kate must choose between her head and her heart.
Billy McDonald has hit rock bottom. When his wife disappears, he is forced to confront his demons. Winning that battle brings success, and for the first time in more than two decades, his music career is finally about to take off. But without Katie by his side, it’s a bitter victory.
What do you do when the thing you thought you wanted isn’t really what you wanted after all?
All I Ever Wanted is the third book in the Of Love and Madness trilogy, and the conclusion of a love story that defied the odds for twenty five years. But for Kate and Billy, it’s up to them to decide if it’s the end, or only the beginning.
432 pages, Paperback
First published May 13, 2017
192 people are currently reading
312 people want to read
About the author
Karen Cimms
13 books439 followersKaren Cimms writes contemporary romance and romantic comedy.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 146 reviews
January 17, 2018
4.5 ★'s
“You are my only addiction.”
The last book kind of killed me a little but I knew I just had to be patient and have hope.
And really, this book is about healing. Katie's gone off to do quite a bit of healing herself...and she really needs it except she's scared and instead withdraws even more. Thank goodness for Tommy not letting her get away with it.
I really enjoyed reading about Katie finding herself and her new neighbor, Harold, was a hoot! I laughed so hard about the lobsters because I am the exact same way! Ugh... ;)
I was also happy to see the progress Billy has made and it was no surprise that he took the bull by the horns. And I LOVED his patience with Katie. And Katie with the soap? That was perfect!
Katie's relationships with her kids were also very sweet. I was happy that Rhiannon finally let down her guard! It was sooo needed.
And it was flippin' awesome that Katie was able to serve up some karma. Yes!
Everything wrapped up pretty nicely. I thought the Foundation was a pretty insightful cause and it was great how everyone was able to be hands on.
Overall, pretty amazing, sweet, romantic, angsty love story that you can't helped but be dragged into and love every minute of it. The best part was the depth of the story...it just made things so much richer and more enjoyable.
“You are my only addiction.”
The last book kind of killed me a little but I knew I just had to be patient and have hope.
And really, this book is about healing. Katie's gone off to do quite a bit of healing herself...and she really needs it except she's scared and instead withdraws even more. Thank goodness for Tommy not letting her get away with it.
I really enjoyed reading about Katie finding herself and her new neighbor, Harold, was a hoot! I laughed so hard about the lobsters because I am the exact same way! Ugh... ;)
I was also happy to see the progress Billy has made and it was no surprise that he took the bull by the horns. And I LOVED his patience with Katie. And Katie with the soap? That was perfect!
Katie's relationships with her kids were also very sweet. I was happy that Rhiannon finally let down her guard! It was sooo needed.
And it was flippin' awesome that Katie was able to serve up some karma. Yes!
Everything wrapped up pretty nicely. I thought the Foundation was a pretty insightful cause and it was great how everyone was able to be hands on.
Overall, pretty amazing, sweet, romantic, angsty love story that you can't helped but be dragged into and love every minute of it. The best part was the depth of the story...it just made things so much richer and more enjoyable.
March 10, 2019
3.5 stars
Initially, I struggled to get through the first 50% of this book - basically until Billy found Kate and he re-entered the story. I was a little bored with Kate's progress through therapy and her selfishness regarding no contact with anyone in her family for a year or more. Can you imagine if your mother or wife had a nervous breakdown, left town and gave instructions through an attorney that you are to stay away and give her space for that long of time? I would think that the therapist would have forced the issue for family therapy much sooner. The kids were worried and angry. And Billy was dealing with some jail time, community service, and alcohol rehab. Yet, we only get little glimpses of Billy's recovery and endless minutiae of Kate doing boring, everyday things and not giving a sh*t about her family - the kids and the love of her life. I almost DNF'd. But, my OCD to finish books kept me going. I was never so grateful when Billy found out where Kate was living and dropped everything to go to her. And at this point, the story picked up so I wanted to continue.
Billy was dedicated to his recovery - not for just himself, but to be worthy of Kate - he truly loved her. He used his time writing music, etc. The ending is a little sappy - but a nice story about a couple overcoming pain and coming out stronger individually and together on the other end. They do set out to try and help others in the end.
I didn't round this one because of the first 50% of the book.
Initially, I struggled to get through the first 50% of this book - basically until Billy found Kate and he re-entered the story. I was a little bored with Kate's progress through therapy and her selfishness regarding no contact with anyone in her family for a year or more. Can you imagine if your mother or wife had a nervous breakdown, left town and gave instructions through an attorney that you are to stay away and give her space for that long of time? I would think that the therapist would have forced the issue for family therapy much sooner. The kids were worried and angry. And Billy was dealing with some jail time, community service, and alcohol rehab. Yet, we only get little glimpses of Billy's recovery and endless minutiae of Kate doing boring, everyday things and not giving a sh*t about her family - the kids and the love of her life. I almost DNF'd. But, my OCD to finish books kept me going. I was never so grateful when Billy found out where Kate was living and dropped everything to go to her. And at this point, the story picked up so I wanted to continue.
Billy was dedicated to his recovery - not for just himself, but to be worthy of Kate - he truly loved her. He used his time writing music, etc. The ending is a little sappy - but a nice story about a couple overcoming pain and coming out stronger individually and together on the other end. They do set out to try and help others in the end.
I didn't round this one because of the first 50% of the book.
July 18, 2020
To confess, I lack the discipline to read any series in the correct sequence but to do it with this one - about the lives of the same couple over two decades - is idiotic, to say the least. I am a little intrigued by book #1 (their early life) and the novella, but I don't think I would ever read read book #2 - where many horrible things happen.
So, my view on Kate and Billy maybe myopic but I get the sense of a couple, completely in love - quite a feat as one is a mostly away from home rockstar. They have always had a tumultuous marriage, with him away and she frustrated as an unappreciated mother and wife, managing alone and always low on funds. They fight but always make up.
Now, with their children grown up (daughter married and has twins, son away to college) major crises happen, one after the other to make her leave her old life and family behind to come live in a house left to her by her dearest and dead friend (another constant of her life), on the Maine coast. Without informing anyone.
This is where the book opens.
So, my view on Kate and Billy maybe myopic but I get the sense of a couple, completely in love - quite a feat as one is a mostly away from home rockstar. They have always had a tumultuous marriage, with him away and she frustrated as an unappreciated mother and wife, managing alone and always low on funds. They fight but always make up.
Now, with their children grown up (daughter married and has twins, son away to college) major crises happen, one after the other to make her leave her old life and family behind to come live in a house left to her by her dearest and dead friend (another constant of her life), on the Maine coast. Without informing anyone.
This is where the book opens.
April 6, 2020
“Do you think he’s telling the truth?” Kate asked after Billy had left her and Liz alone.
"That would be hard for me to assess fairly. What did you think?”
"I think he was, but he’s lied before. I want to believe him, but that doesn’t change the fact that he cheated in the first place.” Liz placed her hands on Kate’s arms.
“The night of your friend’s funeral, he raped you, right?”
She shook her head insistently. “That was different. He didn’t know what he was doing. I told you what he said.”
“You did. And the night he cheated, what was different about that night?”
“It’s not the same.”
“No? Was he under the influence of drugs and alcohol?”
“When?”
“Both nights? Either night?”
“Yes.”
“What I’m saying is that you forgave him for doing something horrible because he was under the influence of drugs and alcohol. If you’re going to judge him for something he did more than twenty years ago, maybe you should use the same ruler.”
“You’re saying I should forgive him?”
“No. All I’m saying is that you should apply the same rules. Is it unfair to excuse his behavior for one thing because he was on drugs but not for another? Think about what may be preventing you from applying the same logic to both incidents. Only you know what you’re capable of forgiving and forgetting, and only you know if you love him enough to bother.”
“I’m still so confused. I don’t want to forgive him only because I’m lonely and—you know.” She’d shared a lot with Liz over the past few months, but telling her she was horny wasn’t something she was comfortable saying outright. Liz seemed to understand perfectly.
“I don’t think you’ll do that.”
................
I don't know what the rules are for psychologists in other countries. I don't know what psychologists this "writer" talked to to develop this character. But at least IN MY COUNTRY a psychologist NEVER and I say NEVER would encourage a woman to stay with her ABUSER !! These authors should think twice before sending this type of message to readers. That excuse for a man should be in jail. All aspects of this relationship call for CODEPENDENCE AND TOXITY. There is NOTHING of love in any of their attitudes. I don't know if this story is based on the way this "writer" perceives this type of situation and if this is the case she needs PSYCHIATRIC HELP more than an editor.
"That would be hard for me to assess fairly. What did you think?”
"I think he was, but he’s lied before. I want to believe him, but that doesn’t change the fact that he cheated in the first place.” Liz placed her hands on Kate’s arms.
“The night of your friend’s funeral, he raped you, right?”
She shook her head insistently. “That was different. He didn’t know what he was doing. I told you what he said.”
“You did. And the night he cheated, what was different about that night?”
“It’s not the same.”
“No? Was he under the influence of drugs and alcohol?”
“When?”
“Both nights? Either night?”
“Yes.”
“What I’m saying is that you forgave him for doing something horrible because he was under the influence of drugs and alcohol. If you’re going to judge him for something he did more than twenty years ago, maybe you should use the same ruler.”
“You’re saying I should forgive him?”
“No. All I’m saying is that you should apply the same rules. Is it unfair to excuse his behavior for one thing because he was on drugs but not for another? Think about what may be preventing you from applying the same logic to both incidents. Only you know what you’re capable of forgiving and forgetting, and only you know if you love him enough to bother.”
“I’m still so confused. I don’t want to forgive him only because I’m lonely and—you know.” She’d shared a lot with Liz over the past few months, but telling her she was horny wasn’t something she was comfortable saying outright. Liz seemed to understand perfectly.
“I don’t think you’ll do that.”
................
I don't know what the rules are for psychologists in other countries. I don't know what psychologists this "writer" talked to to develop this character. But at least IN MY COUNTRY a psychologist NEVER and I say NEVER would encourage a woman to stay with her ABUSER !! These authors should think twice before sending this type of message to readers. That excuse for a man should be in jail. All aspects of this relationship call for CODEPENDENCE AND TOXITY. There is NOTHING of love in any of their attitudes. I don't know if this story is based on the way this "writer" perceives this type of situation and if this is the case she needs PSYCHIATRIC HELP more than an editor.
March 4, 2019
This rating is for all three books and I need to think straight b4 I review. Big emotions, very good characterization and many triggers made this a 3 part series I won't forget soon. My only quibble is that maybe TOO much happened to our h for me to give it 5 stars, I'll have to think 😂. I literally read straight through all of them, so emotions are still too close to the surface.
September 12, 2019
Wow oh wow, after trying to clean the house and take the kids to sport and carrying this book around the house just trying to finish, as I just COULDN'T PUT IT DOWN.
It's the conclusion to "At this moment" the first half of the book finds Kate with post traumatic stress trying to cope day to day and seeing a Psychiatrist not much is really mentioned about Billy and her family. Then finally the book comes together when Kate gets in touch with her son. I didn't cry through any of the books but at 75% tears were dripping on the kindle. Such a beautiful love story. ❤️Just loved Billy. Just read it, I'm sure you will love it as much as I did.
It's the conclusion to "At this moment" the first half of the book finds Kate with post traumatic stress trying to cope day to day and seeing a Psychiatrist not much is really mentioned about Billy and her family. Then finally the book comes together when Kate gets in touch with her son. I didn't cry through any of the books but at 75% tears were dripping on the kindle. Such a beautiful love story. ❤️Just loved Billy. Just read it, I'm sure you will love it as much as I did.
May 21, 2018
Ok, deep breath.....damn, this series put me through the ringer! BUT SO WORTH IT!!!! I read this last book in less than 24 hours.
I loved this final book in the series. There was a lot of healing, forgiveness, and patience needed from all parties to get to a point of resolution.
So very well done. This series is definitely a favorite of mine for the year. Thank you Karen Cimms!
For any of you who were hesitant to continue the series after book 1 like I was, please take the plunge! The story is definitely worth all the angst!
I loved this final book in the series. There was a lot of healing, forgiveness, and patience needed from all parties to get to a point of resolution.
So very well done. This series is definitely a favorite of mine for the year. Thank you Karen Cimms!
For any of you who were hesitant to continue the series after book 1 like I was, please take the plunge! The story is definitely worth all the angst!
May 1, 2023
Reread April '23.......same ⬇ 😍
Reread Aug. '20...totally in love with Katie and Billy...so excited to read the final installment!
**********************************
Ok, so I really loved this story!! Billy and Kate went through a lot in their lives, both individually and together. It sucked me in from the beginning and I couldn't stop until I finished all 3 books. The reason this only got four stars is because of the fade to black scenes (which I hate) and I sometimes felt lost with the time frame and there was no epilogue.
Reread Aug. '20...totally in love with Katie and Billy...so excited to read the final installment!
**********************************
Ok, so I really loved this story!! Billy and Kate went through a lot in their lives, both individually and together. It sucked me in from the beginning and I couldn't stop until I finished all 3 books. The reason this only got four stars is because of the fade to black scenes (which I hate) and I sometimes felt lost with the time frame and there was no epilogue.
November 20, 2017
I just read this trilogy in a weekend. And now I'm suffering. From a book hangover. Wow. Book one honestly didn't grab me. I was thinking will I continue? Thank fuck I did. Book two and three were amazing. Not that book one was bad..I just didn't fully connect, wasn't sure where we were going. The last 20% I was so taken by events that were taking place that I knew I had to keep going. So grateful I did. Beautiful love story, that encompasses all life can bring and more. The journey these two embarked on was stunningly portrayed, even in third person!! So glad I dove in.
June 29, 2020
Books 1-3 Of Love And Madness Series
For quite some time the Of Love And Madness series has been registering on my radar, but this was the first opportunity I had to sit down and read it. This went beyond a binge read and entered into meaningful and captivating territory after the first page of book one, At This Moment. In this series Ms. Cimms gives her audience an all-encompassing love story where every hug was enveloping and every kiss was soul sealing.
The leads in this work had a presence that reached far beyond the pages they occupied and the singular draw they felt toward each other easily translated to this writer's readers. Billy and Kate were full of imperfections, there were times that they both made choices that gave reader's reasons to question their appeal yet despite their lows there were just as many highs and what emerged were two incredible characters that offered so much in their frailty that it ultimately became their biggest strength. Details gave reader's a chance to form complicated opinions and showed the depth of this author's portrayals to their advantage. This couple's relationship was stripped down, and the emotions were raw, real and lingering. Ms. Cimms showed Billy and Kate at their most vulnerable making no attempt to glamorize their bond and in doing so made them accessible to each other and reader's alike. The clarity this author had in expressing her characters miscommunications and misguided need to protect each other was done compassionately and expertly. A standout and memorable secondary cast not only enhanced but contributed significantly to this series.
The insight, intimacy and devotion Ms. Cimms had with her portrayals was rare and touching. She guided them through the best and worst of times and stayed true to her characters, never glossing over their flaws and never deserting them in their worst moments even as she elevated them in their best. This was an emotional read with no shortage of heartbreaking moments and full on sobs. If you are looking for a series to invest your time and heart into Karen Cimms' Of Love And Madness series is a must!
*Other than the first book in this series the works in this series are not stand alone.*
For quite some time the Of Love And Madness series has been registering on my radar, but this was the first opportunity I had to sit down and read it. This went beyond a binge read and entered into meaningful and captivating territory after the first page of book one, At This Moment. In this series Ms. Cimms gives her audience an all-encompassing love story where every hug was enveloping and every kiss was soul sealing.
The leads in this work had a presence that reached far beyond the pages they occupied and the singular draw they felt toward each other easily translated to this writer's readers. Billy and Kate were full of imperfections, there were times that they both made choices that gave reader's reasons to question their appeal yet despite their lows there were just as many highs and what emerged were two incredible characters that offered so much in their frailty that it ultimately became their biggest strength. Details gave reader's a chance to form complicated opinions and showed the depth of this author's portrayals to their advantage. This couple's relationship was stripped down, and the emotions were raw, real and lingering. Ms. Cimms showed Billy and Kate at their most vulnerable making no attempt to glamorize their bond and in doing so made them accessible to each other and reader's alike. The clarity this author had in expressing her characters miscommunications and misguided need to protect each other was done compassionately and expertly. A standout and memorable secondary cast not only enhanced but contributed significantly to this series.
The insight, intimacy and devotion Ms. Cimms had with her portrayals was rare and touching. She guided them through the best and worst of times and stayed true to her characters, never glossing over their flaws and never deserting them in their worst moments even as she elevated them in their best. This was an emotional read with no shortage of heartbreaking moments and full on sobs. If you are looking for a series to invest your time and heart into Karen Cimms' Of Love And Madness series is a must!
*Other than the first book in this series the works in this series are not stand alone.*
September 6, 2019
I don't often write reviews but just have to gush about the "Of Love and Madness" trilogy because I have been left with a serious book hangover, which rarely happens. I am on a rockstar-trope binge and have finally come across a realistic narrative where the rise to megastardom doesn't happen overnight; it's a story spanning twenty-five years. We are thrown into the lives of Billy and Kate, a couple desperately in love who are trying to survive the many pitfalls that accompany the lives of would-be rockstars and their families.
We experience their highs and lows as Billy, the talented, handsome musician H, is desperately trying to establish his foothold in the cut-throat, decadent music industry that is known for decimating relationships, and destroying people's sanity and self-esteem. Billy is a flawed yet loyal, loving man who makes so many mistakes throughout the first two books because he simply doesn't know any better and because the forces of evil are too often working against him and his beautiful Katie. Kate, the h, is a quietly strong, devoted wife and mother who stands by her rocker man for 24 years until the day that Billy's lifestyle and their bad-luck drive them apart.
This story is everything. It's angsty, tragic, bitterly sad, redeeming, beautiful, and joyous. The supporting characters are also everything. Joey, Devin, Rhiannon, Doug, the twins, Tom, Harold, Jeff, Denny, Billy and Kate's parents, and the myriad of other characters help to bring this powerful story to life. And what can I say about our beautiful Joey?! His wit alone makes it worth reading all three books.
I love, love, love this trilogy and commend Ms. Cimms' vivid portrayal of Billy and Kate's lives and epic love story.
We experience their highs and lows as Billy, the talented, handsome musician H, is desperately trying to establish his foothold in the cut-throat, decadent music industry that is known for decimating relationships, and destroying people's sanity and self-esteem. Billy is a flawed yet loyal, loving man who makes so many mistakes throughout the first two books because he simply doesn't know any better and because the forces of evil are too often working against him and his beautiful Katie. Kate, the h, is a quietly strong, devoted wife and mother who stands by her rocker man for 24 years until the day that Billy's lifestyle and their bad-luck drive them apart.
This story is everything. It's angsty, tragic, bitterly sad, redeeming, beautiful, and joyous. The supporting characters are also everything. Joey, Devin, Rhiannon, Doug, the twins, Tom, Harold, Jeff, Denny, Billy and Kate's parents, and the myriad of other characters help to bring this powerful story to life. And what can I say about our beautiful Joey?! His wit alone makes it worth reading all three books.
I love, love, love this trilogy and commend Ms. Cimms' vivid portrayal of Billy and Kate's lives and epic love story.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
June 24, 2019
This 3-book series started out just mediocre for me. At times I had a hard time staying with it. The author was new-to-me and there were many things about her writing that kept me glued to the pages, so I forged forward. The second book picked up the pace and I was really falling into the rocker and his sweetheart's sad tale -- almost like a "Romeo and Juliet" woefully written story. By this third installment, I was completely enthralled and tears and smiles followed me through each of the pages. These characters were definitely imperfect, flawed and at times lost to the demons that chased them, but the love was always there through the good, bad and ugly.
Turns out Karen Cimms saved the best for last -- as should be for a romance novel. I'm so glad I stuck with the series and couldn't have wished for a better final performance.
Turns out Karen Cimms saved the best for last -- as should be for a romance novel. I'm so glad I stuck with the series and couldn't have wished for a better final performance.
October 11, 2019
10 stars ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
One of the best love stories I’ve read since the notebook. Made me relate, made me laugh and made me cry. I highly recommend if you’re a romantic at heart!
One of the best love stories I’ve read since the notebook. Made me relate, made me laugh and made me cry. I highly recommend if you’re a romantic at heart!
August 7, 2019
5++ stars This series is a MUST read!! I’m all about the storytelling and this was masterful. I truly went into this not expecting to get past the sample. Not only did I devour all 4 books in a few days but I could read 4 more because I was so invested in this love story. Billy and Katie will take you on a wild, heartbreaking but beautiful journey that spans over 25 yrs. The writing is flawless and the story is so true to life it just felt so real. It was literally like I was holding my breath the entire series. Definitely in my top, top favorites. I loved everything about this. Also I live in central Jersey next to New Brunswick so it was cool hearing about the local references.
November 3, 2017
I'm going to copy and paste this review onto all
the books in the series, as I feel this is really just
one big book. I loved this series. I laughed, I
cried (I mean I really cried) I wanted to throw
my kindle across the room, and I wanted to
slow down, because I didn't want this to end.
Billy and his Katie. I have so many emotions,
and so many words, and I know that any
thing I write will not do this book justice.
This romance spanned about 20 years
and it had it all. Addiction, betrayal,
angst, friendship, family, death, but
most of all, and in front and center
it had love.
Rarely do I read a book about 2 very
imperfect people, that has me craving
the next word. I love how Ms. Cimms
got to the heart of rock and roll, and
not the glamours part. The dirty,
sad, gritty, lonely, heartbreaking
part. Billy was the perfect, imperfect
hero. From the start I had not one
doubt that Kate was it for him.
She filled a hole in him. He
absolutely lived for her.
We got to see Kate grow from a
very young girl to one of the most
kick ass heroines I have ever read.
She literally gave everything up
for Billy. We see her survive so
much tragedy, so much heart ache
and in the end we get to see her
rise up and fight for herself.
My favorite book would be book
3. We see 2 soulmates find out how
hard they will fight to be with each
other. We get to see the best of them.
All the secondary characters were just
amazing. They added such depth to
the story. The feeling of family was
so strong that at the end I had happy
tears rolling down my face. (and I
very RARELY cry while reading a
book). I also had the song "I'll
Be There For You" by BonJovi
playing on a reel in my head!
From now on this song will remind
of Billy, and his Katie!!
I will absolutely read more by
this author!!!
July 22, 2017
I am not sure I have the right words to convey how much I LOVED this series - Book one made me curious about how this would go and as a reader of hundreds of rock star romances I unfairly thought that it would be Billy being a jerk - how would they stay together etc etc BOY WAS I WRONG .......
As soon as you start book two you know this is going to be something different -Book two - well I was so engrossed that I didn't want to do anything but read (see reviews for both) the emotional ringer I was put through had me starting book 3 in the middle of the night -
Now to Book 3 - Karen Cimms - You asked us to trust you - and I am soo very glad I did In fact you could probably ask me to go rob a bank with you and I would say sure why not. This book is soo powerful and realistic that not only will you learn about the meaning of forgiveness but you might learn something about yourself and how you see things. You will cry, laugh and cry some more - however the feelings I had when I was finished will stay with me forever - Billy & Katie I hate to see you go but I am looking forward to your Novella in October -
As soon as you start book two you know this is going to be something different -Book two - well I was so engrossed that I didn't want to do anything but read (see reviews for both) the emotional ringer I was put through had me starting book 3 in the middle of the night -
Now to Book 3 - Karen Cimms - You asked us to trust you - and I am soo very glad I did In fact you could probably ask me to go rob a bank with you and I would say sure why not. This book is soo powerful and realistic that not only will you learn about the meaning of forgiveness but you might learn something about yourself and how you see things. You will cry, laugh and cry some more - however the feelings I had when I was finished will stay with me forever - Billy & Katie I hate to see you go but I am looking forward to your Novella in October -
May 25, 2017
Review to follow
I finished this series late last night and wanted to take a few before I started my review. First let me say that I REALLY like this series. It spans 25 years, two people find each other and we watch them fall in love, have that love tested time and time again to come whole at the other side.
The one thing that I liked about this story is while the two main characters. truly love each other, sometimes that is just not enough.
Both of them have childhoods while different, are similar none the less. One emotional and one physical. They struggle to stay together until drugs, alcohol and their insecurities get in the way.
We watch our female character find her way back and in the process helps her man and her family heal as well.
I enjoyed all the books but I think that I liked the second....We All Fall Down the best. Recommend these books for anyone that enjoys reading about characters that struggle through hard times and come out whole on the other side.
I finished this series late last night and wanted to take a few before I started my review. First let me say that I REALLY like this series. It spans 25 years, two people find each other and we watch them fall in love, have that love tested time and time again to come whole at the other side.
The one thing that I liked about this story is while the two main characters. truly love each other, sometimes that is just not enough.
Both of them have childhoods while different, are similar none the less. One emotional and one physical. They struggle to stay together until drugs, alcohol and their insecurities get in the way.
We watch our female character find her way back and in the process helps her man and her family heal as well.
I enjoyed all the books but I think that I liked the second....We All Fall Down the best. Recommend these books for anyone that enjoys reading about characters that struggle through hard times and come out whole on the other side.
April 14, 2022
mixed emotions
I’ve just spent the last 4 days consumed by this trilogy. I have some many mixed feelings. I’m torn- Karen created two characters that really loved each other. In fact I don’t think I’ve read about 2 characters that love each other more but I do have a hard time because if this was real life I would believe that over 25 years his actions would show otherwise.
I believed he redeemed himself but at what cost. I don’t want to spoil anything but there’s something that happens and I just don’t know how she could get past it.
Maybe that’s what makes this story so great though. It’s soul bearing and ugly. It’s questionable and not black and white.
It just leaves a big question for me though. I believe he really loved her but do I believe if you really love someone you would make all his mistakes?
I’ve just spent the last 4 days consumed by this trilogy. I have some many mixed feelings. I’m torn- Karen created two characters that really loved each other. In fact I don’t think I’ve read about 2 characters that love each other more but I do have a hard time because if this was real life I would believe that over 25 years his actions would show otherwise.
I believed he redeemed himself but at what cost. I don’t want to spoil anything but there’s something that happens and I just don’t know how she could get past it.
Maybe that’s what makes this story so great though. It’s soul bearing and ugly. It’s questionable and not black and white.
It just leaves a big question for me though. I believe he really loved her but do I believe if you really love someone you would make all his mistakes?
April 10, 2019
Love & Madness
While I almost read this in one sitting, I didn’t quite pull it off. But I wanted too. The love story of Katie and Billy was both heartbreaking and epic. They endured so much and yet loved so hard. And as individuals they grew and developed. It was a story that kept me turning the pages and had me invested. To say more would ruin the ride and it’s a ride worth taking.
While I almost read this in one sitting, I didn’t quite pull it off. But I wanted too. The love story of Katie and Billy was both heartbreaking and epic. They endured so much and yet loved so hard. And as individuals they grew and developed. It was a story that kept me turning the pages and had me invested. To say more would ruin the ride and it’s a ride worth taking.
August 31, 2020
What a freaking trilogy.... was it good the whole way? Nope... I actually thought book 1 was the worst but this book was the best. I'll give short reviews on book 1 & 2 on their pages, but here is a detailed review for the trilogy as a whole.
This story is about Kate and Billy. She goes out one night in college and meets Billy, a guy in a band. In book 1, Kate leaves her family as she finds a journal outlining how her mother never wanted her and moves in with Billy. They get married and in the end of book 1 (SPOILERS AHEAD!!!) he cheats on her by getting a BJ by the biggest agent in the industry.
He feels so guilty he pukes afterwards and 20 years later, he's never made the mistake again.
Book 2 starts off 20 years later. And in THIS book, things go bad to horrible. Billy is a drug addict and alcoholic. He loves his wife insanely, but he's a horrible husband. His alcohol and drugs making him do and say things he doesn't mean. By the end of this book, she leaves and wants to work on her. She doesn't let her family know where she is and just needs to focus on herself.
Book 3 (this book) starts off with their recovery. Now I must say, the reason I'm giving this book a 4stars is because I am SURPRISED at how much I loved their recovery. I LOVED that the author didn't sugar coat, or write their recovery with rose-coloured glasses, AKA she gloss over the hurt and pain, and make their way back to each other an easy one like MANY authors do these days.
I LOVED Kate in this book. Her leaving was not selfish. It was probably the first thing she's ever done since getting married to Billy, that was for herself. And after reading book 2, I did not understand how she didn't break earlier.
I loved she had her own life with the old man next door (Eekkk forgot if his name was Howard?) and his son Jeff!
I loved that she slowly got better with her recovery.
Billy - I loved that he FINALLY went to rehab. Admitted his mistakes. Became GOOD so he can become WORTHY FOR HER. I love that I finished this book feeling like this man WORSHIPS this woman and will never repeat the same mistakes. I loved watching them behave like silly teenagers at 40 years old. I really did believe in this couple's fall, their recovery, and their HEA.
For my safety gals, he cheats in the end of book 1, but he does NOT take it lightly. He feels guilt every day and I believed in his forgiveness and his atonement (and hello, if you knew me, you know I despite cheaters).
So the above would be the positive. For the negatives?
As much as I loved book 2 and 3 and felt their depth, book 1 to me was very detached. It felt like I was being told the events as opposed to shown. I actually couldn't connect to the couple or their relationship until book 2 & 3. Book 1 lacked that passion, that storytelling ability to make me FALL for their love. It happened in book 2 and 3, and I was actually so surprised the same author wrote book 1 because books 2 & 3 were full of passion and emotion.
Also, and this is another spoiler, I would love further clarification on this, even if it comes from the author (I love discussing books respectfully) or even with other readers of this book. In book 2, the hardest scene for me to read was when Billy hit & raped Kate.... What I loved about this book is that EVERY SINGLE THING about the cheating was fleshed out and we UNDERSTOOD what happened and it was brought up over and over again. I loved that. Because it made me understand fully what went on, and it allowed ME to get over the incident as the reader. Unfortunately, the slap / rape scene was dismissed and glossed over. I don't mean that it should've hurt Kate as much as cheating. It's her right if him being with another woman hurts her more than that incident. But it needed to be discussed more. In fact, even in book 2 it's glossed over. I'm not sure how after that incident she was never scared of him? Not even for a second? So here's the thing. I know he was on crystal meth - but he always took drugs so I had a few questions about that scene. Crystal meth is horrible - makes you into a disgusting human (again, this is from my own knowledge and not the book cause it's not really discussed), but what made him react like that?
It was never discussed. And why didn't he at least tell US or Kate that he'll never touch that drug again after what he did to Kate? And since he didn't, why was Kate never scared of him after? Specially knowing he was still not sober? If it was the drug that turned him disgusting, how was she sure he wouldn't take crystal meth again? How was she sure he wouldn't attack her again? IT was so glossed over and I needed a bit more emphasis on it.
I still believe in their HEA, as he's sober and all, but it needed to be discussed. I didn't feel like I read enough of his guilt over it. He also slapped her.
I would've loved if the author made us understand that moment more. He thought she was sleeping with Tom at the time, did he become violent because his dad was violent and doing crystal meth drugged up the worst thoughts and he became violent? We don't know the answer and so I felt VERY unsatisfied with that aspect.
At one point, Even Billy was like "let's speak about that night" and they never do. Kate says "it was the drugs" but he's been on drugs before. So was it his first time on meth? See my confusion? It's kind of never explained. SO I'm not so sure I understand why Devin did that or more importantly, what drove him to do that.
I would love if the author could clarify on this in potentially another book with a summary of Billy's point of view. Including his reflection during rehab.
And then this leads to another negative, the therapist at the end tells Kate that she forgave Billy for the rape / hit cause he was on drugs but not cheating even though it was the same circumstance. I would have to disagree as he was on coke when he got the BJ and he remembered everything whereas he was meth when the rape / abuse happened and it's a very different drug. And all I'm saying is, if the author tried to imply he was in the same headspace during both incidents, than I can't forgive Billy because he was aware / coherent / awake after the BJ but passed out after the rape /abuse and forgot everything. I know it's the former, that the meth was a lot worse (even reading the scene and so), but didn't want the author to imply that he was in the same headspace. He was not otherwise, he could've stopped the rape / hit scene just like he ran out and puked after the BJ.
In a whole... & despite the negatives (and of course there will be negatives! each book is around 400 pages :P), I do believe in their love and their HEA. I found it admirable that the author took the time to get them back together. He worships this woman and I'm happy they found their way back together.
I loved Kate's healing. Billy's recovery to being a good husband. And 5 stars for Joey. I loved him and my heart hurt when he was gone.... really hurt.
This story is about Kate and Billy. She goes out one night in college and meets Billy, a guy in a band. In book 1, Kate leaves her family as she finds a journal outlining how her mother never wanted her and moves in with Billy. They get married and in the end of book 1 (SPOILERS AHEAD!!!) he cheats on her by getting a BJ by the biggest agent in the industry.
He feels so guilty he pukes afterwards and 20 years later, he's never made the mistake again.
Book 2 starts off 20 years later. And in THIS book, things go bad to horrible. Billy is a drug addict and alcoholic. He loves his wife insanely, but he's a horrible husband. His alcohol and drugs making him do and say things he doesn't mean. By the end of this book, she leaves and wants to work on her. She doesn't let her family know where she is and just needs to focus on herself.
Book 3 (this book) starts off with their recovery. Now I must say, the reason I'm giving this book a 4stars is because I am SURPRISED at how much I loved their recovery. I LOVED that the author didn't sugar coat, or write their recovery with rose-coloured glasses, AKA she gloss over the hurt and pain, and make their way back to each other an easy one like MANY authors do these days.
I LOVED Kate in this book. Her leaving was not selfish. It was probably the first thing she's ever done since getting married to Billy, that was for herself. And after reading book 2, I did not understand how she didn't break earlier.
I loved she had her own life with the old man next door (Eekkk forgot if his name was Howard?) and his son Jeff!
I loved that she slowly got better with her recovery.
Billy - I loved that he FINALLY went to rehab. Admitted his mistakes. Became GOOD so he can become WORTHY FOR HER. I love that I finished this book feeling like this man WORSHIPS this woman and will never repeat the same mistakes. I loved watching them behave like silly teenagers at 40 years old. I really did believe in this couple's fall, their recovery, and their HEA.
For my safety gals, he cheats in the end of book 1, but he does NOT take it lightly. He feels guilt every day and I believed in his forgiveness and his atonement (and hello, if you knew me, you know I despite cheaters).
So the above would be the positive. For the negatives?
As much as I loved book 2 and 3 and felt their depth, book 1 to me was very detached. It felt like I was being told the events as opposed to shown. I actually couldn't connect to the couple or their relationship until book 2 & 3. Book 1 lacked that passion, that storytelling ability to make me FALL for their love. It happened in book 2 and 3, and I was actually so surprised the same author wrote book 1 because books 2 & 3 were full of passion and emotion.
Also, and this is another spoiler, I would love further clarification on this, even if it comes from the author (I love discussing books respectfully) or even with other readers of this book. In book 2, the hardest scene for me to read was when Billy hit & raped Kate.... What I loved about this book is that EVERY SINGLE THING about the cheating was fleshed out and we UNDERSTOOD what happened and it was brought up over and over again. I loved that. Because it made me understand fully what went on, and it allowed ME to get over the incident as the reader. Unfortunately, the slap / rape scene was dismissed and glossed over. I don't mean that it should've hurt Kate as much as cheating. It's her right if him being with another woman hurts her more than that incident. But it needed to be discussed more. In fact, even in book 2 it's glossed over. I'm not sure how after that incident she was never scared of him? Not even for a second? So here's the thing. I know he was on crystal meth - but he always took drugs so I had a few questions about that scene. Crystal meth is horrible - makes you into a disgusting human (again, this is from my own knowledge and not the book cause it's not really discussed), but what made him react like that?
It was never discussed. And why didn't he at least tell US or Kate that he'll never touch that drug again after what he did to Kate? And since he didn't, why was Kate never scared of him after? Specially knowing he was still not sober? If it was the drug that turned him disgusting, how was she sure he wouldn't take crystal meth again? How was she sure he wouldn't attack her again? IT was so glossed over and I needed a bit more emphasis on it.
I still believe in their HEA, as he's sober and all, but it needed to be discussed. I didn't feel like I read enough of his guilt over it. He also slapped her.
I would've loved if the author made us understand that moment more. He thought she was sleeping with Tom at the time, did he become violent because his dad was violent and doing crystal meth drugged up the worst thoughts and he became violent? We don't know the answer and so I felt VERY unsatisfied with that aspect.
At one point, Even Billy was like "let's speak about that night" and they never do. Kate says "it was the drugs" but he's been on drugs before. So was it his first time on meth? See my confusion? It's kind of never explained. SO I'm not so sure I understand why Devin did that or more importantly, what drove him to do that.
I would love if the author could clarify on this in potentially another book with a summary of Billy's point of view. Including his reflection during rehab.
And then this leads to another negative, the therapist at the end tells Kate that she forgave Billy for the rape / hit cause he was on drugs but not cheating even though it was the same circumstance. I would have to disagree as he was on coke when he got the BJ and he remembered everything whereas he was meth when the rape / abuse happened and it's a very different drug. And all I'm saying is, if the author tried to imply he was in the same headspace during both incidents, than I can't forgive Billy because he was aware / coherent / awake after the BJ but passed out after the rape /abuse and forgot everything. I know it's the former, that the meth was a lot worse (even reading the scene and so), but didn't want the author to imply that he was in the same headspace. He was not otherwise, he could've stopped the rape / hit scene just like he ran out and puked after the BJ.
In a whole... & despite the negatives (and of course there will be negatives! each book is around 400 pages :P), I do believe in their love and their HEA. I found it admirable that the author took the time to get them back together. He worships this woman and I'm happy they found their way back together.
I loved Kate's healing. Billy's recovery to being a good husband. And 5 stars for Joey. I loved him and my heart hurt when he was gone.... really hurt.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
March 22, 2018
The perfect ending, to a wonderful trilogy.
This final book wasn't always easy to read, but it shouldn't be easy to read about someone hitting rock bottom. I'm not 100% sure how to write this review, but I will say after being torn apart, I have been fully put back together. Katie's journey back to the light was so realistically written that I felt like I was there with her. It was heart wrenching, and soul crushing, and finally when all seemed lost there was a tiny ray of sunlight that allowed Katie to find her way back.
This was the perfect ending to Billy and Katie's love story. And yes I believe it's truly a love story, it may not be your typical romance story, but to me the fact that it was realistic made it better. Real people are selfish, and jealous, and insecure, and unsure of how to express themselves, they make mistakes, and do and say the wrong things, they run when they should stay, and they say things they shouldn't and keep yelling at times when they should know better and walk away. Sometimes love alone just isn't enough, and this final book in the trilogy shows us that, it shows us that relationships, and family take hard work, and communication, it takes ripping yourself open and showing someone the dirty truth of who you are in the inside, and it shows that if your willing to do all that, that maybe, just maybe, love is in fact enough.
Do yourself a favor and read this trilogy, I promise that even though you'll want to shake some sense into them, that you'll love Billy, Katie, Joey, Rhiannon, Devon, Henry, and even Charlie as much as I do.
I have a huge tbr and I read a review on a blog I read that suggested these books, I'm so glad I put my list on hold and read them.
This final book wasn't always easy to read, but it shouldn't be easy to read about someone hitting rock bottom. I'm not 100% sure how to write this review, but I will say after being torn apart, I have been fully put back together. Katie's journey back to the light was so realistically written that I felt like I was there with her. It was heart wrenching, and soul crushing, and finally when all seemed lost there was a tiny ray of sunlight that allowed Katie to find her way back.
This was the perfect ending to Billy and Katie's love story. And yes I believe it's truly a love story, it may not be your typical romance story, but to me the fact that it was realistic made it better. Real people are selfish, and jealous, and insecure, and unsure of how to express themselves, they make mistakes, and do and say the wrong things, they run when they should stay, and they say things they shouldn't and keep yelling at times when they should know better and walk away. Sometimes love alone just isn't enough, and this final book in the trilogy shows us that, it shows us that relationships, and family take hard work, and communication, it takes ripping yourself open and showing someone the dirty truth of who you are in the inside, and it shows that if your willing to do all that, that maybe, just maybe, love is in fact enough.
Do yourself a favor and read this trilogy, I promise that even though you'll want to shake some sense into them, that you'll love Billy, Katie, Joey, Rhiannon, Devon, Henry, and even Charlie as much as I do.
I have a huge tbr and I read a review on a blog I read that suggested these books, I'm so glad I put my list on hold and read them.
August 26, 2019
Amazing
I honestly want to cry. This series by far was the most brilliant story I honestly can say I've ever read. It gutted me and torn my heart apart and I recovered and gutted again. Definitely a rollercoaster. I love and missed Joey so much like he was my best friend and even from heaven he helped heal his beautiful friend. There were times Kate ticked me off because I was Kate once and always making excuses for our husbands poor behavior, the punching bags so to speak but as jerks could also show why they were loved so much. I could identify with this 25-year toxic relationship but Katie and Billy went through the unthinkable and came out so much stronger. This story will stay with me for a long time. I am so in need of another heart gripping story now I know I will have a book hangover lol. Read this book!!!
I honestly want to cry. This series by far was the most brilliant story I honestly can say I've ever read. It gutted me and torn my heart apart and I recovered and gutted again. Definitely a rollercoaster. I love and missed Joey so much like he was my best friend and even from heaven he helped heal his beautiful friend. There were times Kate ticked me off because I was Kate once and always making excuses for our husbands poor behavior, the punching bags so to speak but as jerks could also show why they were loved so much. I could identify with this 25-year toxic relationship but Katie and Billy went through the unthinkable and came out so much stronger. This story will stay with me for a long time. I am so in need of another heart gripping story now I know I will have a book hangover lol. Read this book!!!
May 19, 2018
I just finished reading the Of Love and Madness series. I could not put each book down. The series is about Katies and Billy's love story over a 25 year span. Billy's rock star lifestyle takes its toll on Katie and the whole family and friends. I chuckled, I was angry and cried a lot. I rooted for them both throughout the book and their roller coaster of emotions. I loved the books and highly recommend them. When I finished All I Ever Wanted, I wanted another book in the series. That is a true testament for a great book(s) and their author.
May 18, 2018
Wonderfully heartwrenching
Real life is hard and sometimes debilitating. This book is the conculsion of an emotional triology. The series is about love, loss, and the simple things that make life worth fighting for. This book will take you on an emotional roller coaster. Then leave you wanting more.
Real life is hard and sometimes debilitating. This book is the conculsion of an emotional triology. The series is about love, loss, and the simple things that make life worth fighting for. This book will take you on an emotional roller coaster. Then leave you wanting more.
November 19, 2019
This book was so emotional for me. It was all about healing and hope for the future and I’m so glad Katie and Billy got their HEA. After all the hard times they really became the best versions of themselves and I’m so thankful I got to read this series. This series has turned out to be one of my favorites.
December 7, 2019
Best books ever
These 3 books are some of the best I’ve ever read. I laughed and I cried and just couldn’t put them down. These are the first books I e read by this author and will definitely be adding her to my list of favorites. Now I’m going to search for more of her books!
These 3 books are some of the best I’ve ever read. I laughed and I cried and just couldn’t put them down. These are the first books I e read by this author and will definitely be adding her to my list of favorites. Now I’m going to search for more of her books!
August 19, 2020
Billy and Kate
After three books feeling their struggles, deep love, heartbreak and then both almost dying plus the year apart working on themselves in hysterical bliss with leaky eyes at the ending. I'm going to miss them horribly! Excellent series!
After three books feeling their struggles, deep love, heartbreak and then both almost dying plus the year apart working on themselves in hysterical bliss with leaky eyes at the ending. I'm going to miss them horribly! Excellent series!
August 19, 2020
Spunky N Sassy Rating: 4.0
~~~~~~~~~~Lindsey's ⭐⭐⭐⭐ Review~~~~~~~~~~
Great Book
This book was absolutely worth the read. I was hooked until the very last page.
~~~~~~~~~~Lindsey's ⭐⭐⭐⭐ Review~~~~~~~~~~
Great Book
This book was absolutely worth the read. I was hooked until the very last page.
August 21, 2021
Wow
Wow…..just wow!!! ❤️ well worth the read, keep tissues nearby! What an amazing writer. This book brings out so many emotions.
Wow…..just wow!!! ❤️ well worth the read, keep tissues nearby! What an amazing writer. This book brings out so many emotions.
January 17, 2022
Beyond words!
This book series was totally unreal. I have cried, laughed, screamed and wondered if they were going to make it together. Such losses they went thru but managed to come out on top. Wonderful!
This book series was totally unreal. I have cried, laughed, screamed and wondered if they were going to make it together. Such losses they went thru but managed to come out on top. Wonderful!
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