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The Evolution of Us
They say most people meet the person they will marry while in high school. Balancing one another perfectly, Holly Ryan and Declan James were together through most of college—until their relationship blew up, leaving Declan with more questions than answers.
For the past two years, Declan has tried everything he can think of to earn Holly’s forgiveness, but even if he manages to help her let go of the past and give them another chance at happiness, she still has a secret. Not to mention, she can’t get over the revolving door of women he seems to have coming in and out of his apartment.
Declan is desperate to prove to Holly she’s the one for him and isn’t above using his celebrity status or enlisting the help of their friends to win her back. All’s fair in love and war, right?
*Mature Content- This book contains situations not intended for persons under the age of 18. Including, but not limited to - sexual situations, cursing, alcohol and/or drug use, and possible triggers.*
For the past two years, Declan has tried everything he can think of to earn Holly’s forgiveness, but even if he manages to help her let go of the past and give them another chance at happiness, she still has a secret. Not to mention, she can’t get over the revolving door of women he seems to have coming in and out of his apartment.
Declan is desperate to prove to Holly she’s the one for him and isn’t above using his celebrity status or enlisting the help of their friends to win her back. All’s fair in love and war, right?
*Mature Content- This book contains situations not intended for persons under the age of 18. Including, but not limited to - sexual situations, cursing, alcohol and/or drug use, and possible triggers.*
336 pages, Kindle Edition
First published October 11, 2017
105 people are currently reading
465 people want to read
About the author
D. Kelly
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Author page - https://www.facebook.com/dkellyauthor
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if that link doesn't work @DeeKelly
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 170 reviews
October 14, 2017
I so wanted to like this book, and it was good only a few mistakes simple ones that an editor would have found but over all it was a decent read.
Now here is where I have a problem. THE HERO! what a DB (douchebag) seriously.
SPOILERS ********
so he over hears the h having a conversation with her bestie and breaks things off with her. in less than a week he has banged some random chic already. so than 6 months later he realizes his mistake and how he misconstrued the conversation and tries to talk to the h. Only she just found out that same day that the H has been sleeping with anything that has a vajaja. So she sets up a date to move on. and here lies my problem. He loves her (so he says) he wants her back (so he says) but in the 1 and half years he tries to win her back he is still sleeping his way through the "Pu*** Squad" (that was what the h dubbed the women he slept with. ) So the DB is trying to prove to the h he loves her but he is still sleeping with other women. 🙄 SERIOUSLY did I mention he lives across the hall from her? So the h gets to see his progression of women. Yeah that would make me want to get back with the guy I love if I saw 77 women he has been randomly banging come and go from his place. (and yes he admitted to the h he had slept with 78 women since they had broken up)
over all the story was ok. No real shock for me to know she had kept her pregnancy a secret (she wanted to surprise him on their anniversary with the news) and that her crazy mum tried to kill her and her sister which resulted in her loosing the baby. that was the big angst and what caused the break up. S
I really wished I could like the story but the H ruined it for me. He was a little boy trying to wear a grown up suit and it just did not fit for me. I will read other things from this author cause her writing is good.
Now here is where I have a problem. THE HERO! what a DB (douchebag) seriously.
SPOILERS ********
so he over hears the h having a conversation with her bestie and breaks things off with her. in less than a week he has banged some random chic already. so than 6 months later he realizes his mistake and how he misconstrued the conversation and tries to talk to the h. Only she just found out that same day that the H has been sleeping with anything that has a vajaja. So she sets up a date to move on. and here lies my problem. He loves her (so he says) he wants her back (so he says) but in the 1 and half years he tries to win her back he is still sleeping his way through the "Pu*** Squad" (that was what the h dubbed the women he slept with. ) So the DB is trying to prove to the h he loves her but he is still sleeping with other women. 🙄 SERIOUSLY did I mention he lives across the hall from her? So the h gets to see his progression of women. Yeah that would make me want to get back with the guy I love if I saw 77 women he has been randomly banging come and go from his place. (and yes he admitted to the h he had slept with 78 women since they had broken up)
over all the story was ok. No real shock for me to know she had kept her pregnancy a secret (she wanted to surprise him on their anniversary with the news) and that her crazy mum tried to kill her and her sister which resulted in her loosing the baby. that was the big angst and what caused the break up. S
I really wished I could like the story but the H ruined it for me. He was a little boy trying to wear a grown up suit and it just did not fit for me. I will read other things from this author cause her writing is good.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
January 13, 2018
****3.5 STARS****
D. Kelly fans asked for a lighter book and that's what they got. As she is known for writing more heavy and heart wrenching books, her fans wanted her to give them a little something more clean , so to speak.
I knew that going in b/c I stalk her on social media. I am a fangirl and I not trying to hide it.
That being said, I let this one hang out on my Kindle for awhile before reading it. I wanted to wait until I was in the mood for a light story. Since I have been working on my podcast for my blog, Pretty Mess Reading, I needed to wet my whistle with a book that I knew wouldn't be shit but also would take me out of my head for a few days. For that, D. Kelly did not disappoint.
I don't have the ability to write an in depth review at the moment as I need to get back to my podcast. I will tell you that D. Kelly will be on the show and we'll talk about this book in relation to her others.
Do I recommend this book? Yes. It's the perfect rainy day read.
Will I read another book by this author? Always.
Stalk all things messy. . .
D. Kelly fans asked for a lighter book and that's what they got. As she is known for writing more heavy and heart wrenching books, her fans wanted her to give them a little something more clean , so to speak.
I knew that going in b/c I stalk her on social media. I am a fangirl and I not trying to hide it.
That being said, I let this one hang out on my Kindle for awhile before reading it. I wanted to wait until I was in the mood for a light story. Since I have been working on my podcast for my blog, Pretty Mess Reading, I needed to wet my whistle with a book that I knew wouldn't be shit but also would take me out of my head for a few days. For that, D. Kelly did not disappoint.
I don't have the ability to write an in depth review at the moment as I need to get back to my podcast. I will tell you that D. Kelly will be on the show and we'll talk about this book in relation to her others.
Do I recommend this book? Yes. It's the perfect rainy day read.
Will I read another book by this author? Always.
Stalk all things messy. . .
nope
December 18, 2017The hero is so in love with heroine. Lmao.
NOT
https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
NOT
https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
March 7, 2019
DNF
There is just something about this book that i can not understand. I also can not find my chemistry with the characters.
DNF
There is just something about this book that i can not understand. I also can not find my chemistry with the characters.
DNF
April 5, 2020
Zero respect for both characters. Professing your love doesn’t necessarily translate into soulmates. Couples harbour secrets...minor, major not every detail requires a grand reveal. Grandstanding and desertion on the basis of withheld information is juvenile. Individuals are flawed - when confronted with cheating they move past if invested in an effort to salvage their relationship. In this situation Declan sought an excuse to experience his smorgasbord of women and compounded his lack of character by flaunting his conquests.
He publicly live-streams his self-destructive behaviour by discussing his relationship faux pas, dating disasters…Holly, foolishly loved him despite his antics and relationship-altering idiocy.
He boasts to his audience, his failure to be reasonable at the expense of his relationship. Too much alcohol, overhearing a private conversation taken out of context and his decision to be single.
He fell in love with his best friend, the girl next door, his prom date, his first. Years later, he uses the ‘secret’ as an excuse to sample the single life.
I cannot find a redeeming quality for a man with a revolving bedroom door and a passive aggressive h. Simply unremarkable. They were flawed characters.
He was a hypocrite having revealed his epic claim of seventy-eight encounters yet resentful of her wanting to explore her romantic options. She was spineless.
My favourite references, albeit crude was ‘p**sy parade, p**sy posse and blonde bombshell-ville.
He publicly live-streams his self-destructive behaviour by discussing his relationship faux pas, dating disasters…Holly, foolishly loved him despite his antics and relationship-altering idiocy.
He boasts to his audience, his failure to be reasonable at the expense of his relationship. Too much alcohol, overhearing a private conversation taken out of context and his decision to be single.
He fell in love with his best friend, the girl next door, his prom date, his first. Years later, he uses the ‘secret’ as an excuse to sample the single life.
I cannot find a redeeming quality for a man with a revolving bedroom door and a passive aggressive h. Simply unremarkable. They were flawed characters.
He was a hypocrite having revealed his epic claim of seventy-eight encounters yet resentful of her wanting to explore her romantic options. She was spineless.
My favourite references, albeit crude was ‘p**sy parade, p**sy posse and blonde bombshell-ville.
July 1, 2023
Another book recommended somewhere, another reread.
1. NA is not my thing.
2. He’s an absolute dirtbag.
Childhood sweethearts break up over a half heard conversation. 6 months later he regrets breaking up, he’s spent those 6 months manwhoring and wants her back. She’s finally trying to move on. Does he stop with the blondes? No, but he does eventually move in across the hall from her—to win her back. Does he stop the revolving door of other women? Nope, he only stops when she agrees to date him exclusively. Please tell me what self respecting woman would do this??
Am I the only person that finds this to be a rage read??
2 stars only because I knew the story and reread it anyway, and it’s proof that I’m way too old for NA BS.
1. NA is not my thing.
2. He’s an absolute dirtbag.
Childhood sweethearts break up over a half heard conversation. 6 months later he regrets breaking up, he’s spent those 6 months manwhoring and wants her back. She’s finally trying to move on. Does he stop with the blondes? No, but he does eventually move in across the hall from her—to win her back. Does he stop the revolving door of other women? Nope, he only stops when she agrees to date him exclusively. Please tell me what self respecting woman would do this??
Am I the only person that finds this to be a rage read??
2 stars only because I knew the story and reread it anyway, and it’s proof that I’m way too old for NA BS.
April 21, 2024
Now y’all, I do love reading a good angsty cheating book… and per the H - Declan he didn’t cheat because they were broken up. Declan and Holly had been together 8 years, since they were 14/15. They have been broken up 2 years and are now 25. So at 23 after living together for years a drunken Declan over hears a snippet of conversation and assumes Holly is either cheating or wants to test the waters with others. They were each others firsts. With absolutely zero conversation to clarify what he overheard he breaks up with her and goes on a 2 year fkfest. This is where the story opens. Declan loves Holly so much that he stalked her and moved in across the hall from her(6 month into breakup he found out he misunderstood convo he overheard)so she can see the continual parade of blonde bombshell ons entering and leaving his apartment. What a champ! Yeah what a selfish prick- he’s so in love with Holly he wants to be close to her and to show her he fks 78 blonde bombshells on her front door step. I can’t even with this guy— he is so immature in his thinking. He’s telling Holly she’s always been his soul mate,once in a life time forever —but screwing everything with two legs—he confesses to 78 ow. Most of them while living right across the hall with walls so thin he hears when Holly stubs her toe— literally this happens. Granted the 78 Blondes are told as history so not on page. Also he tells Holly multiple times that dating other people is going to make them stronger as they become a couple again. This guy!!! I guess his dick muscle got stronger with all that exercise! I think Holly should have found a sexy older guy and dumped this child man. Daddy kink/ age gap anyone????🤣 Well forget that lifeline. Dumb Holly takes this Prince Charming back and they live hea. He’s so charming he’s in my top 5 worst hero’s! Time for a new shelf!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
October 10, 2017
This was an emotional love story that alternates between the past and present to weave together the story of childhood friends to lovers, Declan and Holly. This stand alone second chance romance by D. Kelly had me both laughing and crying at times. I couldn't read the pages fast enough to discover what went wrong between this seemingly perfect pair.
I'm really torn about our hero, Declan. On the one hand, he is incredibly sweet, loving, and thoughtful. On the other, however, he is quick tempered and selfish. It's no secret that the manwhore hero is one of my least favorite. I really wanted so badly to love Declan, but his behavior was difficult for me to look completely beyond. It contrasted so dramatically with the image that was painted of him in the past. Everything leading up to the break-up pointed to an understanding, patient, and caring boyfriend, that would do anything for Holly. I understand that people change (I mean, the book is called The Evolution of Us), but I still can't understand how he could claim to only love and want to win Holly back and yet act the way he did while they were apart. The misunderstanding and secrets that caused the fateful break-up also confused me at how things spiraled so completely out of control so quickly. I was very invested in these characters though at that point and couldn't help but want them to find their way back to each other.
The secondary characters were awesome and I really enjoyed the comic relief and voice of reason that both Sage and Bax provided. They are the BFF's we all hope to have - loyal, supportive, honest, and have your back through thick and thin. I especially hope that we see Bax again and find out more about "he who shall not be named". Overall, an entertaining second chance love story that will give you all the feels!
*I voluntarily read an advance reader copy of this book*
I'm really torn about our hero, Declan. On the one hand, he is incredibly sweet, loving, and thoughtful. On the other, however, he is quick tempered and selfish. It's no secret that the manwhore hero is one of my least favorite. I really wanted so badly to love Declan, but his behavior was difficult for me to look completely beyond. It contrasted so dramatically with the image that was painted of him in the past. Everything leading up to the break-up pointed to an understanding, patient, and caring boyfriend, that would do anything for Holly. I understand that people change (I mean, the book is called The Evolution of Us), but I still can't understand how he could claim to only love and want to win Holly back and yet act the way he did while they were apart. The misunderstanding and secrets that caused the fateful break-up also confused me at how things spiraled so completely out of control so quickly. I was very invested in these characters though at that point and couldn't help but want them to find their way back to each other.
The secondary characters were awesome and I really enjoyed the comic relief and voice of reason that both Sage and Bax provided. They are the BFF's we all hope to have - loyal, supportive, honest, and have your back through thick and thin. I especially hope that we see Bax again and find out more about "he who shall not be named". Overall, an entertaining second chance love story that will give you all the feels!
*I voluntarily read an advance reader copy of this book*
October 2, 2017
Review Originally Posted On: Taylor Fenner's Bookish World
In true D. Kelly fashion (at least from the books I've read by this author) this story flips back and forth between the present and the past. Holly and Declan went to school together, fell in love and were together through college before a drunken misunderstanding ruined everything.
Now Declan will do anything to get Holly back and makes a public declaration of love on his life stream YouTube channel. Holly misses Declan but she's not sure she can get past the parade of women in and out of Declan's apartment since they broke up or if she's able to forgive him for not hearing her out two years earlier.
When Declan makes a bet with her that they'll end up together and coaxes her into going on a series of dates with him Holly reluctantly accepts, making Declan promise that "when" things don't work out he'll move out of her building and leave her alone. But with the sexual chemistry still smoldering between them and Holly's feelings toward Declan growing once more, she's not sure she can resist her charming ex.
Can these two get a second chance at love? Or will the secret Holly's been hiding destroy them again - possibly forever this time?
I'll be honest: this was not my favorite D. Kelly book. The story seemed... lacking in a way and a little one dimensional. After reading about the Weston brothers in the Just An Illusion series I was expecting a male lead like Noah or Sawyer but Declan just didn't do it for me. He was so... agreeable and he kind of acted like a chick in the beginning. All the whining about wanting Holly back while Holly acted like she didn't care. And Declan's "celebrity status" didn't make much sense to me either. I know people make money making videos for YouTube but the blurb made me think he was a musician or an actor or someone legitimately famous and finding out what he really did for a living was a letdown.
I also couldn't get into the secondary characters, Baxter and Sage. Their interactions and humor just didn't jive for some reason.
I kind of predicted Holly's big secret just from reading the blurb so it didn't surprise me that I was right, although the circumstances were different than I expected.
I didn't care for how the story kept jumping back and forth between the present and the past. Usually I don't mind that, I love seeing backstories woven into the present, but it felt out of place in this book. I know it was meant to show the "evolution" of their relationship but seeing their teen selves went back a little too far for NA. And the ending of this book reminded me of others by this author.
Overall, this book was okay, if not a little cheesy on the romance. If you're looking for a quick romance this is your book, but it just didn't do anything for me.
In true D. Kelly fashion (at least from the books I've read by this author) this story flips back and forth between the present and the past. Holly and Declan went to school together, fell in love and were together through college before a drunken misunderstanding ruined everything.
Now Declan will do anything to get Holly back and makes a public declaration of love on his life stream YouTube channel. Holly misses Declan but she's not sure she can get past the parade of women in and out of Declan's apartment since they broke up or if she's able to forgive him for not hearing her out two years earlier.
When Declan makes a bet with her that they'll end up together and coaxes her into going on a series of dates with him Holly reluctantly accepts, making Declan promise that "when" things don't work out he'll move out of her building and leave her alone. But with the sexual chemistry still smoldering between them and Holly's feelings toward Declan growing once more, she's not sure she can resist her charming ex.
Can these two get a second chance at love? Or will the secret Holly's been hiding destroy them again - possibly forever this time?
I'll be honest: this was not my favorite D. Kelly book. The story seemed... lacking in a way and a little one dimensional. After reading about the Weston brothers in the Just An Illusion series I was expecting a male lead like Noah or Sawyer but Declan just didn't do it for me. He was so... agreeable and he kind of acted like a chick in the beginning. All the whining about wanting Holly back while Holly acted like she didn't care. And Declan's "celebrity status" didn't make much sense to me either. I know people make money making videos for YouTube but the blurb made me think he was a musician or an actor or someone legitimately famous and finding out what he really did for a living was a letdown.
I also couldn't get into the secondary characters, Baxter and Sage. Their interactions and humor just didn't jive for some reason.
I kind of predicted Holly's big secret just from reading the blurb so it didn't surprise me that I was right, although the circumstances were different than I expected.
I didn't care for how the story kept jumping back and forth between the present and the past. Usually I don't mind that, I love seeing backstories woven into the present, but it felt out of place in this book. I know it was meant to show the "evolution" of their relationship but seeing their teen selves went back a little too far for NA. And the ending of this book reminded me of others by this author.
Overall, this book was okay, if not a little cheesy on the romance. If you're looking for a quick romance this is your book, but it just didn't do anything for me.
April 17, 2024
For me. This story just doesn't work in the real world. The miscommunication etc. Ridiculous. There's no way someone would keep that shit to themselves because they were so called ashamed. Then let their boyfriend walk away thinking the worst. Then him turning himself into a manwhore for two years. This story was weak.
avoid-and-run-away
January 14, 2019Note to myself==> Review Here
October 10, 2017
This heartwarming story is full of important lessons. How to treat others; deal with life’s surprises both good and very bad and how one should never jump to conclusions. Most of all the affirmation that love can truly conquer all. Declan and Holly, best friends and soul mates since the age of 14 have been estranged for the past 2 years when we meet them as adults and are taken through their journey going between past and present seamlessly. With the couple’s bff’s Baxter and Sage along for the entire ride, providing the comic relief and sometimes not so subtle push, this story will leave you feeling all warm and fuzzy.
October 11, 2017
For me this book fell flat I just found the premise unbelievably childish.The story is told both in the past and present which I liked as we saw how they became a couple.
Holly and Declan become best friends at a young age and that evolves into love. They leave school, go to college and move into their first flat. I enjoyed this part of the story but then on the back of an overhead conversation he splits up with her and becomes a man whore.
From that point the story lost me, he comes across as childish and Holly was too accepting for me. His efforts to get her back just didn’t win me over. I just lost interest in the characters and in the end thought they deserved each other.
I like this author but this one was just not for me.
reviewed by Sweet Spot Sisterhood
Holly and Declan become best friends at a young age and that evolves into love. They leave school, go to college and move into their first flat. I enjoyed this part of the story but then on the back of an overhead conversation he splits up with her and becomes a man whore.
From that point the story lost me, he comes across as childish and Holly was too accepting for me. His efforts to get her back just didn’t win me over. I just lost interest in the characters and in the end thought they deserved each other.
I like this author but this one was just not for me.
reviewed by Sweet Spot Sisterhood
November 18, 2017
D. Kelly is a genius of her craft...and this is a genius story
“The Evolution of Us” is such an amazing and beautiful story of Declan and Holly...again...a second chance at love with one another. D. Kelly absolutely nailed it with this book. I was gripped emotionally, mentally, and found myself unable to take my eyes and thoughts away from this incredible love story. It was heartwarming, had me wiping tears at the corner of my eyes, giggling, smiling, caring, wanting...I mean what else could you want? I couldn’t quit thinking about Declan and Holly, similar to themselves not being able to stop thinking of one another. I felt like they could’ve been friends of mine, and I could feel so much through these pages. When I read words written on a page, and they can make me FEEL something, they can bring emotion and a realness to the reader, that’s when I know it’s AMAZING. D. Kelly, you made me FEEL, you made me WANT, you made me LOVE...and I didn’t want Declan and Holly’s love story to end. I loved “The Evolution of Us”, and I can’t wait to read my next D. Kelly book. Brilliant, genius, gorgeous...absolute LOVE!
“The Evolution of Us” is such an amazing and beautiful story of Declan and Holly...again...a second chance at love with one another. D. Kelly absolutely nailed it with this book. I was gripped emotionally, mentally, and found myself unable to take my eyes and thoughts away from this incredible love story. It was heartwarming, had me wiping tears at the corner of my eyes, giggling, smiling, caring, wanting...I mean what else could you want? I couldn’t quit thinking about Declan and Holly, similar to themselves not being able to stop thinking of one another. I felt like they could’ve been friends of mine, and I could feel so much through these pages. When I read words written on a page, and they can make me FEEL something, they can bring emotion and a realness to the reader, that’s when I know it’s AMAZING. D. Kelly, you made me FEEL, you made me WANT, you made me LOVE...and I didn’t want Declan and Holly’s love story to end. I loved “The Evolution of Us”, and I can’t wait to read my next D. Kelly book. Brilliant, genius, gorgeous...absolute LOVE!
October 8, 2017
"The Evolution of Us" is the new contemporary romance novel by D. Kelly. Compared to her previous series Just an Illusion, is shorter, but it doesn't mean it isn't as intense. After reading all the books by this author, I can say that she's a guarantee when it comes to this genre.
The Evolution of Us is the story of Declan and Holly, two people who met during their teen years but separated at some point. The book alternates between their POVs and between different moments of their love story without being confusing. I think the title is fitting for this romance novel because is really shows how the story evolves and lets the reader into the minds of both characters to find out what led them to say or do something.
When the story starts, Holly and Dec are apart, and we find out slowly what happened. They are different people compared to what they were when they met and were together, and of course some things changed, but not their love for each other.
Holly is your girl next door. Good, genuine, but not stupid. If there is a thing I like about female characters in D. Kelly's books is that they are not weak heroines, but they stand up for themselves even if that may hurt them in the process. Holly is level-headed and knows what she wants.
Dec is a guy with a heart of gold that is determined and faithful. He wants to get Holly back and he'll do whatever he can to show her that things have changed.
I really like that the story was a mix between past and present, because using the first part of the book to write a flashback can be tiring, so an alternation between what's been and what's happening is great to compare the growth of the characters and the current situations. And for those who read the series "Just and Illusion", there's even a mention. It's awesome when an author connects the books she writes in her writing. The book flows well and you'll want to turn the pages until the end and I love the banter between the characters, there are a lot of funny lines. Too bad that it wasn't as long as other books by this author, but I think that D. Kelly may want to write other books about characters in TEOU, right? Because I'd love to know if Sage and Baxter will ever find love... :)
You can't miss this book if you love contemporary romance.
The Evolution of Us is the story of Declan and Holly, two people who met during their teen years but separated at some point. The book alternates between their POVs and between different moments of their love story without being confusing. I think the title is fitting for this romance novel because is really shows how the story evolves and lets the reader into the minds of both characters to find out what led them to say or do something.
When the story starts, Holly and Dec are apart, and we find out slowly what happened. They are different people compared to what they were when they met and were together, and of course some things changed, but not their love for each other.
Holly is your girl next door. Good, genuine, but not stupid. If there is a thing I like about female characters in D. Kelly's books is that they are not weak heroines, but they stand up for themselves even if that may hurt them in the process. Holly is level-headed and knows what she wants.
Dec is a guy with a heart of gold that is determined and faithful. He wants to get Holly back and he'll do whatever he can to show her that things have changed.
I really like that the story was a mix between past and present, because using the first part of the book to write a flashback can be tiring, so an alternation between what's been and what's happening is great to compare the growth of the characters and the current situations. And for those who read the series "Just and Illusion", there's even a mention. It's awesome when an author connects the books she writes in her writing. The book flows well and you'll want to turn the pages until the end and I love the banter between the characters, there are a lot of funny lines. Too bad that it wasn't as long as other books by this author, but I think that D. Kelly may want to write other books about characters in TEOU, right? Because I'd love to know if Sage and Baxter will ever find love... :)
You can't miss this book if you love contemporary romance.
October 10, 2017
Friends, secrets, and second chances. Declan and Holly have been best friends since they were young so they knew each other and grew to love each other vowing there would not be anyone or anything that could ever come between them. The only thing was that secrets can destroy some of the strongest relationships, even theirs. Who has the secret that they will not divulge to the other and will separation ever resolve what their real issue really was?
I received this book as an ARC for a freely given and honest review.
I received this book as an ARC for a freely given and honest review.
October 11, 2017
The Evolution of Us is just another reason I will continue to jump on every opportunity to read and review Ms. Kelly's books. I adored this standalone second-chance romance, even though I had a couple of 'wtb's near the end. ("want to buys" - nothing serious, just a wishlist really)
Let's start with our main couple.
Holly is tired. Tired of living alone, tired of living with secrets, tired of living across the hall from her ex, Declan... yeah, you saw that correctly. After dealing with their crushing breakup two years earlier, he moved into her building, and won't leave her alone.
She just wants to move on and get over him already. But he won't let it go. There's too much mud they'd have to wade through if they ever got back together, and Holly isn't ready for any of that. She figures Declan isn't either, and the best way to deal with it is to stay on course. Push him away and keep focused forwards.
Declan knows he has a lot to overcome if he wants Holly back. The main stumbling block is his parade of bimbos - a lot of them strutted right past her door. Wearing her down is his main strategy, that and using their friends and his YouTube viewers for advice. Okay, so he doesn't have a great plan, but he's trying.
His opening finally comes via a hinky elevator, bottled water, and chocolate chip cookies. Declan might be charming, but he's gonna have to bring it hardcore in order to win Holly's heart back. And hopefully he'll get her to open up about whatever she's been keeping hidden from everyone.
.....................................
As I just alluded to, there's a bit of a mystery that unfolds purposefully and methodically over the course of the entire book. It's shown to us via past and present flashes, and it's done really nicely. Not drawn out too much, but not given to us in an infodump.
I also love the dual POV format along with the little flashbacks. Getting to see the story from both sides makes for a much more balanced perspective. There's definitely the whole miscommunication thing that works against them the entire way - so those things have to be discussed at some point. It's getting there that seems to be the issue.
Baxter and Sage were great BFFs. They were "split up" in the breakup, but kept in touch. I thought the dynamic between Declan and Baxter particularly was touching and lovely. Especially in the High-School era moments.
Overall, this was a great standalone story. Unlike The Illusion Series, this book is entirely self-contained, which means less character development. It's not a bad thing, I just found myself wanting a little more content near the end of the book. I mean that in a complementary way - I just *wanted more* of it!
I give The Evolution of Us Four solid "sexy man-kiss" stars.
November 1, 2017
Read this and other reviews on my blog: The Discerning Couch Potato.
The Evolution of Us is a second chance romance set in present time, but also told through flashbacks to the couple’s teenage years and early twenties. Declan and Holly have been friends since childhood. Then they were lovers. Then a horrible fight broke them up. Declan‘s grief sent him into one hookup after another, trying to forget the love of his life. Now he’s tired of playing around and wants her back.
I’ve read several D. Kelly books. Most I’ve liked, a couple I’ve had problems with (I’m still a fan, D!). This one falls into the latter category. I liked the characters well enough, but I felt that Kelly was glancing over the parts of the story where she should have delved deeper and spent too much time on things that didn’t shape the story.
For example, Declan has a really close relationship with Holly’s dad. I would’ve liked to see more interaction between the two of them. How did Pops take the breakup? Also, it is mentioned that Holly’s dad and Declan’s mom are dating, but no effort is given to exploring how/if that changes the couple’s relationship or how Holly even feels about it. It made me wonder why it was brought up in the first place.
Much time is spent on a “secret” that Holly is keeping from Declan. Sadly, I guessed the secret from the beginning and felt so very let down at the end of the book. It was predictable.
And that’s my biggest complaint with this novel (and, coincidentally, with the other D. Kelly novels I didn’t love): Points were predictable and others too convenient. I wish some parts of this story would’ve taken less obvious routes.
That said I’m still glad I read it. I liked Declan. Do I think the reason and way he broke up with Holly was stupid? Yes! But I liked that he was honest and straight but not narrow. His friendship with his gay best friend, Baxter, is fun and refreshing. I loved the two of them. I don’t feel like I got to know Holly very well though. I would’ve like to have learned more about her friendship with her friend, Sage, and more about what it felt like to have a mother with addiction issues.
The Evolution of Us is a total beach read. It’s light and fun. Which is great. But I think the story had an opportunity to make the reader think and maybe feel more deeply. But it was an opportunity missed. As Randy Jackson would say on American Idol, “It was just ok for me.”
The Evolution of Us is a second chance romance set in present time, but also told through flashbacks to the couple’s teenage years and early twenties. Declan and Holly have been friends since childhood. Then they were lovers. Then a horrible fight broke them up. Declan‘s grief sent him into one hookup after another, trying to forget the love of his life. Now he’s tired of playing around and wants her back.
I’ve read several D. Kelly books. Most I’ve liked, a couple I’ve had problems with (I’m still a fan, D!). This one falls into the latter category. I liked the characters well enough, but I felt that Kelly was glancing over the parts of the story where she should have delved deeper and spent too much time on things that didn’t shape the story.
For example, Declan has a really close relationship with Holly’s dad. I would’ve liked to see more interaction between the two of them. How did Pops take the breakup? Also, it is mentioned that Holly’s dad and Declan’s mom are dating, but no effort is given to exploring how/if that changes the couple’s relationship or how Holly even feels about it. It made me wonder why it was brought up in the first place.
Much time is spent on a “secret” that Holly is keeping from Declan. Sadly, I guessed the secret from the beginning and felt so very let down at the end of the book. It was predictable.
And that’s my biggest complaint with this novel (and, coincidentally, with the other D. Kelly novels I didn’t love): Points were predictable and others too convenient. I wish some parts of this story would’ve taken less obvious routes.
That said I’m still glad I read it. I liked Declan. Do I think the reason and way he broke up with Holly was stupid? Yes! But I liked that he was honest and straight but not narrow. His friendship with his gay best friend, Baxter, is fun and refreshing. I loved the two of them. I don’t feel like I got to know Holly very well though. I would’ve like to have learned more about her friendship with her friend, Sage, and more about what it felt like to have a mother with addiction issues.
The Evolution of Us is a total beach read. It’s light and fun. Which is great. But I think the story had an opportunity to make the reader think and maybe feel more deeply. But it was an opportunity missed. As Randy Jackson would say on American Idol, “It was just ok for me.”
October 9, 2017
I had the pleasure of receiving an ARC of this book for an honest review. This is my first book by D. Kelly and I must say that I was highly impressed.
The Evolution of Us is the story of Declan and Holly, two people who became friends as children, fell in love as teenagers, and broke each other as adults. It is told from both Declan and Holly's POV and jumps from past to present, showing us their story over a span of eleven years.
Declan and Holly became neighbors and great friends as children. Growing up together they fell in love and became each others first everything. While in collage they broke up due to a misunderstanding. When you first start the story it is two years after the break up and Declan has sworn to do anything to get Holly back. Including moving across the hall from her apartment and declaring his love for her on his live stream YouTube channel. Holly misses and still loves Declan but she is not sure how to get past the hurt he has caused her and get over the parade of women he has had since they broke up. Declan makes a deal with Holly that if she goes on a series of dates with him and gives him a second chance that if it does not work out he will move out of his apartment and finally leave her alone. Reluctantly Holly accepts his offer once Declan agrees to abstain from any sexual encounters of any kind. Can they get the second chance they deserve? Or will their past and a secret Holly has been keeping destroy them?
The secondary characters also played a big role in this book. I absolutely loved Declan and Holly's best friends, Baxter and Sage. Both were extremely over the top crude people and the humor that they added to the story made it such a fun read. I am crossing my fingers that later on down the road that they will also have their own books as well!
The Evolution of Us is the story of Declan and Holly, two people who became friends as children, fell in love as teenagers, and broke each other as adults. It is told from both Declan and Holly's POV and jumps from past to present, showing us their story over a span of eleven years.
Declan and Holly became neighbors and great friends as children. Growing up together they fell in love and became each others first everything. While in collage they broke up due to a misunderstanding. When you first start the story it is two years after the break up and Declan has sworn to do anything to get Holly back. Including moving across the hall from her apartment and declaring his love for her on his live stream YouTube channel. Holly misses and still loves Declan but she is not sure how to get past the hurt he has caused her and get over the parade of women he has had since they broke up. Declan makes a deal with Holly that if she goes on a series of dates with him and gives him a second chance that if it does not work out he will move out of his apartment and finally leave her alone. Reluctantly Holly accepts his offer once Declan agrees to abstain from any sexual encounters of any kind. Can they get the second chance they deserve? Or will their past and a secret Holly has been keeping destroy them?
The secondary characters also played a big role in this book. I absolutely loved Declan and Holly's best friends, Baxter and Sage. Both were extremely over the top crude people and the humor that they added to the story made it such a fun read. I am crossing my fingers that later on down the road that they will also have their own books as well!
October 10, 2017
Some people are meant to be together and find their way back to each other when the time is right.
I will say that when I started reading, I was sure that I'd missed something because it started midway through them meeting up again. However, once I got through this I quickly realised that this was the author's way of telling the story. It had more impact with Holly rejecting Declan and him declaring his intent. As the story unfolds and we see them become closer together despite Holly's intentions to stay well away from him, we get glimpses into their past to see what happened to drive them apart in the first place. They come to the realisation that not everything is as appears and that jumping to conclusions is not the smartest way of resolving concerns.
I liked the fact that they came to realise that if they hadn't separated when they did in the heat of their relationship, they would likely have grown apart and never felt the burning desire to find out what was missed. The increased maturity and life experiences of both have better equipped them for the long term. I loved the fact that Declan was single minded in his pursuit of Holly and was prepared to admit his mistakes. I loved the strength of Holly in not giving in easily to him, as it would have been so easy to do but I wish she had felt confident enough to explain the past to Declan sooner as this would have enabled her healing to happen sooner.
This was a very well written, engaging read. I loved Holly and Declan but I equally loved their best friends as supporting characters.
***Reviewed for LBM Book Blog***
I will say that when I started reading, I was sure that I'd missed something because it started midway through them meeting up again. However, once I got through this I quickly realised that this was the author's way of telling the story. It had more impact with Holly rejecting Declan and him declaring his intent. As the story unfolds and we see them become closer together despite Holly's intentions to stay well away from him, we get glimpses into their past to see what happened to drive them apart in the first place. They come to the realisation that not everything is as appears and that jumping to conclusions is not the smartest way of resolving concerns.
I liked the fact that they came to realise that if they hadn't separated when they did in the heat of their relationship, they would likely have grown apart and never felt the burning desire to find out what was missed. The increased maturity and life experiences of both have better equipped them for the long term. I loved the fact that Declan was single minded in his pursuit of Holly and was prepared to admit his mistakes. I loved the strength of Holly in not giving in easily to him, as it would have been so easy to do but I wish she had felt confident enough to explain the past to Declan sooner as this would have enabled her healing to happen sooner.
This was a very well written, engaging read. I loved Holly and Declan but I equally loved their best friends as supporting characters.
***Reviewed for LBM Book Blog***
October 11, 2017
*****ARC received for honest review*****
Dee has done it again with her latest, The Evolution of Us, which features the main characters of Declan and Holly who are each other's first loves. They live next door to one another and find an early, "Happily Until" a misunderstanding has them break up for 2 long and painful years. During this time, Declan achieves great success professionally and becomes quite familiar with the ladies. Holly, on the other hand, takes a more subdued approach to moving on with her life, though she finally brush off the dust and hit the dating scene which seems full of frogs rather than princes.
Neither finds anyone who lights them on fire like the other one does. Declan decides to woo back his woman and this is the story and backstory of how that comes to pass, what led up to the misunderstanding and hijinks along the way. I always enjoy the banter between characters in Dee's books, and this one is no different. I loved the supporting characters, and while the main characters are deeply in love and subsequently hurt, they each have their 'other' best friend to help support them during the break-up. Baxter is simply a hoot and worthy of his own story, while Sage is a little fireball herself. Each character is rich, yet together they are somehow even more.
Pick up this gem, I power read this over a Sunday..what a way to spend my day.
Thank you, Dee, for giving me the chance to read your ARCs.
Dee has done it again with her latest, The Evolution of Us, which features the main characters of Declan and Holly who are each other's first loves. They live next door to one another and find an early, "Happily Until" a misunderstanding has them break up for 2 long and painful years. During this time, Declan achieves great success professionally and becomes quite familiar with the ladies. Holly, on the other hand, takes a more subdued approach to moving on with her life, though she finally brush off the dust and hit the dating scene which seems full of frogs rather than princes.
Neither finds anyone who lights them on fire like the other one does. Declan decides to woo back his woman and this is the story and backstory of how that comes to pass, what led up to the misunderstanding and hijinks along the way. I always enjoy the banter between characters in Dee's books, and this one is no different. I loved the supporting characters, and while the main characters are deeply in love and subsequently hurt, they each have their 'other' best friend to help support them during the break-up. Baxter is simply a hoot and worthy of his own story, while Sage is a little fireball herself. Each character is rich, yet together they are somehow even more.
Pick up this gem, I power read this over a Sunday..what a way to spend my day.
Thank you, Dee, for giving me the chance to read your ARCs.
October 12, 2017
I immediately felt like I knew these characters. Declan and Holly felt like old friends that I’d watched break up, long for each other while they lived in pain for years, and then wanted so desperately to clear the air and finally mend their broken relationship and hearts.
I loved the way the author told Declan and Holly’s story. Not only do we get the dual perspectives, but she expertly wove the past and present together to help us fall in love with these two as a couple both in the beginning and through their new start. And who can resist a friends to lovers trope intertwined with a second chance romance? Definitely not me!
This story was sweet and heartfelt. I equally adored Declan and Holly and appreciated how their story was delivered. There's a tiny bit of angst but not enough to make me roll my eyes. The only negative was the reason behind their breakup. I know why and understood the reason, but I struggled a little with the fact that it took Holly so long to come clean with her secret. I won't say more, because I don't want to spoil it for you.
Oh how I loved Baxter and Sage!!! These two gave this book so much laughter and lightness. And the banter the four of them had with each other was epic. It was awesome to witness their friendships and support of one another. I especially loved how fiercely Declan had Baxter’s back. And I really hope we get more stories out of this crew.
I voluntarily reviewed an Advance Readers Copy of this book.
I loved the way the author told Declan and Holly’s story. Not only do we get the dual perspectives, but she expertly wove the past and present together to help us fall in love with these two as a couple both in the beginning and through their new start. And who can resist a friends to lovers trope intertwined with a second chance romance? Definitely not me!
This story was sweet and heartfelt. I equally adored Declan and Holly and appreciated how their story was delivered. There's a tiny bit of angst but not enough to make me roll my eyes. The only negative was the reason behind their breakup. I know why and understood the reason, but I struggled a little with the fact that it took Holly so long to come clean with her secret. I won't say more, because I don't want to spoil it for you.
Oh how I loved Baxter and Sage!!! These two gave this book so much laughter and lightness. And the banter the four of them had with each other was epic. It was awesome to witness their friendships and support of one another. I especially loved how fiercely Declan had Baxter’s back. And I really hope we get more stories out of this crew.
I voluntarily reviewed an Advance Readers Copy of this book.
October 11, 2017
*** I received a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review ***
The Evolution of Us by D. Kelly was a quick, light read perfect for a lazy afternoon. Holly and Declan were best friends and high school sweetheart, who were together throughout their college years. They were probably the couple who would be voted “most likely to get married”. However, one drunken night full of misunderstanding and secrets suddenly put an end to that quote. And now two years later Declan will do anything he can to win back the heart of Holly his first love and the girl who has his heart.
“Dec isn’t just any man. Once upon a time, he was my world.”
“My heart knows hers intimately, and no one else will ever compare.”
I enjoyed the storyline I’m a big fan of second chance romance. Holly and Declan were sweet together. I liked that the story is told in the past and present as the past gives you the full background on Holly and Declan, their relationship, family and friends. Their best friends Baxter and Sage made me giggle at times and where two characters worthy of their own story.
Overall, I liked this one, the writing was good, it flowed well and the connection with the author’s last series "Just an Illusion" made me smile. If you’re looking for a heart-warming second chance love on the angst, then this one fits the bill.
The Evolution of Us by D. Kelly was a quick, light read perfect for a lazy afternoon. Holly and Declan were best friends and high school sweetheart, who were together throughout their college years. They were probably the couple who would be voted “most likely to get married”. However, one drunken night full of misunderstanding and secrets suddenly put an end to that quote. And now two years later Declan will do anything he can to win back the heart of Holly his first love and the girl who has his heart.
“Dec isn’t just any man. Once upon a time, he was my world.”
“My heart knows hers intimately, and no one else will ever compare.”
I enjoyed the storyline I’m a big fan of second chance romance. Holly and Declan were sweet together. I liked that the story is told in the past and present as the past gives you the full background on Holly and Declan, their relationship, family and friends. Their best friends Baxter and Sage made me giggle at times and where two characters worthy of their own story.
Overall, I liked this one, the writing was good, it flowed well and the connection with the author’s last series "Just an Illusion" made me smile. If you’re looking for a heart-warming second chance love on the angst, then this one fits the bill.
October 11, 2017
D. Kelly is quickly becoming a must-read author for me. The Illusion series is one of my top favorite of all time. In The Evolution of Us we get a second chance romance that is funny, sexy, heartwarming and heartbreaking.
Declan and Holly have been friends since they were fourteen. They went from friends to first love and were together through most of college. Then a misunderstanding causes them to break up.
Apart for two years, Declan has been doing all he can to get Holly back. He wants to show her she is the one for him. But all Holly sees now are the women that have come in and out of his apartment since their breakup. Declan is an internet celebrity and uses this to declare his love. After some back and forth, Holly agrees to a few dates. Declan wants to win her back, but Holly wants to get him to move out and finally leave her alone.
This story is essentially the evolution of their relationship. Told in both point of views and takes you through the present and the past to show how they ended up where they did.
The Evolution of Us had it all. It was a second chance romance that was emotional, humorous. heartbreaking and hopeful. My favorite kind of stories. Holly and Declan had a lot to work through, but even so they had a lot of chemistry and some great banter between the two.
Happy reading.
Declan and Holly have been friends since they were fourteen. They went from friends to first love and were together through most of college. Then a misunderstanding causes them to break up.
Apart for two years, Declan has been doing all he can to get Holly back. He wants to show her she is the one for him. But all Holly sees now are the women that have come in and out of his apartment since their breakup. Declan is an internet celebrity and uses this to declare his love. After some back and forth, Holly agrees to a few dates. Declan wants to win her back, but Holly wants to get him to move out and finally leave her alone.
This story is essentially the evolution of their relationship. Told in both point of views and takes you through the present and the past to show how they ended up where they did.
The Evolution of Us had it all. It was a second chance romance that was emotional, humorous. heartbreaking and hopeful. My favorite kind of stories. Holly and Declan had a lot to work through, but even so they had a lot of chemistry and some great banter between the two.
Happy reading.
October 11, 2017
***ARC received in exchange for honest review***
Ms. Kelly has done it again!!! Another amazing story of second chances, friends and growing up.
What I loved about this book is that the the build up of the romance was portrayed in a differently. That you saw their love grow through flashback in the story. The alternating between the past and present was perfect. Just when you have a question of what happened you are thrown into the flashback and you question is answered.
Holly and Declan where highs school sweathearts and all through college, things were on the perfect track to their happily ever after Until one night the unforseen exploesion of their relationship sent them on different journeys. Some good and some not so good. But for the past couple of years Declan has been trying everything to win Holly back. As he slowly wears her down she still holds a secret that can destroy the progress they are making.
Holy and Declan best friends provided this story with comic relief and just pulls this story together. All the little parts and all the little life lessons shine through thtoughout this story.
Ms. Kelly has done it again!!! Another amazing story of second chances, friends and growing up.
What I loved about this book is that the the build up of the romance was portrayed in a differently. That you saw their love grow through flashback in the story. The alternating between the past and present was perfect. Just when you have a question of what happened you are thrown into the flashback and you question is answered.
Holly and Declan where highs school sweathearts and all through college, things were on the perfect track to their happily ever after Until one night the unforseen exploesion of their relationship sent them on different journeys. Some good and some not so good. But for the past couple of years Declan has been trying everything to win Holly back. As he slowly wears her down she still holds a secret that can destroy the progress they are making.
Holy and Declan best friends provided this story with comic relief and just pulls this story together. All the little parts and all the little life lessons shine through thtoughout this story.
October 10, 2017
This was a fast, funny, loving, heart breaking story ALL wrapped into one !! Declan and Holly's story starts out as years of best friends hanging out .. not just them but Baxter and Sage too .. can four individual single friends grow up together with out drama ?? And you know there will be drama in some way in a heart breaking story. When you mix love ❤️ friendship and addiction you get The Evolution of Us !!
When one misunderstanding .. assumption .. betrayal .. ever turn around !! But when the heart knows what the heart wants you will stop at NOTHING to get your girl .. love of your life. .. the other half of you back you go all out and wait as long as it takes !!
When Declan over hears only 1/2 of a conversation he goes to the extreme .. when he finally comes to his senses will it be too late .. will Holly already find her one true LOVE or will she already have found him.
The banter between these 4 friends is humorous, loving and sometime just down right crude .... you will laugh cry and love right along with them !!
Great character chemistry !! ❤️
When one misunderstanding .. assumption .. betrayal .. ever turn around !! But when the heart knows what the heart wants you will stop at NOTHING to get your girl .. love of your life. .. the other half of you back you go all out and wait as long as it takes !!
When Declan over hears only 1/2 of a conversation he goes to the extreme .. when he finally comes to his senses will it be too late .. will Holly already find her one true LOVE or will she already have found him.
The banter between these 4 friends is humorous, loving and sometime just down right crude .... you will laugh cry and love right along with them !!
Great character chemistry !! ❤️
October 12, 2017
4.5 stars
At this moment, I am rocking the biggest, swooniest (totally a new word) grin ever. A happy rolling in glee and unicorn farts kind of smile. The perpetually getting bigger till your face hurts but your too happy to care smile.
The Evolution of Us is an absolute joy to read. It's fun, snarky, and sweet. There's just enough discord to show the "real" of this perfect love story.
Boy next door, first love, and all the awesomeness!
An epic meltdown and years go by. Until a weak moment...
It makes your heart squeeze, your eyes squint, and your face tremble. The Evolution of Us is beautiful. Just perfect!
reviewed for Naughty Book Blog
At this moment, I am rocking the biggest, swooniest (totally a new word) grin ever. A happy rolling in glee and unicorn farts kind of smile. The perpetually getting bigger till your face hurts but your too happy to care smile.
The Evolution of Us is an absolute joy to read. It's fun, snarky, and sweet. There's just enough discord to show the "real" of this perfect love story.
Boy next door, first love, and all the awesomeness!
An epic meltdown and years go by. Until a weak moment...
It makes your heart squeeze, your eyes squint, and your face tremble. The Evolution of Us is beautiful. Just perfect!
reviewed for Naughty Book Blog
October 9, 2017
Apparently Goodreads REALLY wants me to work for this review (4th time posting)...
I was thrilled to get my hands on this latest book from D Kelly. I've thoroughly enjoyed the author's other works and am happy to report this one did not disappoint. While very different from her last series (Just an Illusion), Evolution of Us is very well written with fully developed characters.
I encourage you to add this one to your must read list and follow along as Declan tries to win back Holly after an unfortunate and untimely misunderstanding. This book has a great mix of serious content and silly antics - Dec and Holly's BFFs are hilarious! When I first finished the book, I was a little annoyed by the original conflict between D/H...upon further reflection I think that's part of what makes this a good book - it's REAL. Humans have silly misunderstandings and make mistakes (poor choices). It's how we move forward that really counts.
Well done, Ms Kelly, well done.
I was thrilled to get my hands on this latest book from D Kelly. I've thoroughly enjoyed the author's other works and am happy to report this one did not disappoint. While very different from her last series (Just an Illusion), Evolution of Us is very well written with fully developed characters.
I encourage you to add this one to your must read list and follow along as Declan tries to win back Holly after an unfortunate and untimely misunderstanding. This book has a great mix of serious content and silly antics - Dec and Holly's BFFs are hilarious! When I first finished the book, I was a little annoyed by the original conflict between D/H...upon further reflection I think that's part of what makes this a good book - it's REAL. Humans have silly misunderstandings and make mistakes (poor choices). It's how we move forward that really counts.
Well done, Ms Kelly, well done.
October 17, 2017
**Reviewed for CherryOBlossoms Promotions**
I gave this book 4.5 stars!!
This book had me with synopsis to find out if Declan could win Holly back. From the start we read about Declan confessing his dying love for Holly on his show and we read that Holly isn't sure if she wants to open that can of hurt again. When Declan makes an offer Holly agrees hesitantly at his attentions. But after a few good weeks and she know that she is going to have to tell him her secret and she is afraid that all the work that they have done to get back to this point will be over. Can Holly find the courage to tell Declan the truth or will Declan see red and leave Holly forever?
I found I really enjoyed reading this book not only the main characters but the secondary characters at time had me in stitches. I hope that we will see them in a future book!!! I felt everyone emotions in this book, You will go on a roller coaster.
This is the first book for D that I have read, but certainty will not be my last!
I gave this book 4.5 stars!!
This book had me with synopsis to find out if Declan could win Holly back. From the start we read about Declan confessing his dying love for Holly on his show and we read that Holly isn't sure if she wants to open that can of hurt again. When Declan makes an offer Holly agrees hesitantly at his attentions. But after a few good weeks and she know that she is going to have to tell him her secret and she is afraid that all the work that they have done to get back to this point will be over. Can Holly find the courage to tell Declan the truth or will Declan see red and leave Holly forever?
I found I really enjoyed reading this book not only the main characters but the secondary characters at time had me in stitches. I hope that we will see them in a future book!!! I felt everyone emotions in this book, You will go on a roller coaster.
This is the first book for D that I have read, but certainty will not be my last!
May 3, 2019
Have you ever said or did something that you regretted, and then was unsure how to fix it. Well Declan and Holly had been friends 1st, then boy/girlfriends for more years, until one of those big misunderstandings. Words said, some misconstrued, feelings hurt, hateful comments, throw in alcohol, and you have horrible consequences bound to happen. Anger, hurt, blame, lies by omission, left to people torn wounded beyond repair, no matter how much love they had for each other. This is a truly amazing story, my heart was breaking for both! A must read!! ❤️
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