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The Thick of Things

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Life has a way of going awry when you least expect it, and Khalila Skyers learns this lesson the hard way. In one devastating blow after another, she loses her cosy existence. Then Douglas Blythe overtakes her life like a flood, and she's not equipped to deal with an attraction that seems forbidden and overwhelming. But her body and heart want what they want, and leave her wondering if she ever knew herself at all.

Douglas is determined to help Khalila move beyond her obsession with the past and reach for love a second time. No matter how long it takes. No matter the distance. He’s going to prove he's worth the risk.

224 pages, Kindle Edition

Published March 16, 2018

105 people are currently reading
99 people want to read

About the author

J.L. Campbell

110 books307 followers
J.L. Campbell is fascinated with Jamaican flora and has hundreds of photos in her collection. She writes contemporary and sweet romance, romantic suspense, women's fiction, as well as new and young adult novels.

Campbell, who features Jamaican culture in her stories, has written over forty books. She is also a certified editor.

Feel free to join her mailing list for news and updates https://sendfox.com/lp/1rk5gx or connect with her on social media.

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5 stars
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 31 reviews
Profile Image for Arlena.
3,486 reviews1 follower
April 4, 2018
Title: The Thick of Things
Author: J. L. Campbell
Publisher: Garden Avenue Press
Series: In Medias Res Book 1
Reviewed By: Arlena Dean
Rating: Five
Review:

"The Thick of Things" by J. L. Campbell

My Thoughts.....

Good story with some interesting characters...from Khalila, Trent, Douglas and Corinne who will gave this story some depth that will keep you turning the pages. From a horrible tragedy [death of her son] to a divorce will Khalila be able to ever have the life that she wanted? Well it looks like things are really looking up for Khalila meets Douglas who was simply a wonderful person. Will Khalila be able to move from her past issues to a new life with Douglas? Thank God Khalila had a wonderful friend like Corinne who was their for her through it all from her up and down times. Will Khalila be able to come out of that dark place? From the title "The Thick of Things" will these two Khalila & Douglas [older couple] get a second chance at love? This would definitely be a sunshine from the dark period that had been their for Khalila. Will she be able to finally feel the joy she so desired? I am not so sure I liked Khalila's father. He was indeed a strange bird. I love the patience that Douglas had for Khalila in not taking 'no for an answer but wanting to show her just how good he could be for her.' It was beautiful seeing Khalila working on her issues and climbing out of that depressed state. By the end this author gives the reader a good story with some emotional drama and let's not leave out the hot sexy scenes and in the end it looks like a HEAFN. To find out how it all goes down you will have to pick up the good read to see how this author presents it so well to the reader.











Profile Image for CoCoFierce .
118 reviews4 followers
March 20, 2018
This was my first read by this author and this book felt like nostalgia for me. For me this book was romance at its truest form. Yes there was a hint of drama but it didn’t over take the story. Khalila is stuck in limbo. She is trying to hold onto a marriage that’s dead and certain parts of her past she has yet to find peace with. Douglas is a true man! He is a gentleman but knows what he wants. I loved that he was so blunt with Khalilia.

As a reader we got to see these two really date and the courtship process. Let me say home girl went on some good dates and the night caps!!!! I understood with Khalila wasn’t so trusting, her ex was a piece of work. I wanted a times to be like this man is genuinely asking about you why don’t you just tell him? I did not like that she was so hung up with the opinions of others. This is why I think she and Douglas made such a good match, he really was an example of truly living. Some parts the book kind of dragged a bit and I wished for a bit more of a climax. For instance when the ex comes over that whole scene and her reaction. That was a perfect point to release that burden of the past. I wanted a little more from the ending but I felt it was real. These characters don’t have it figured out and Khalilia is growing but not fully there yet. I would love to see more from these characters almost like a finally chapter. All in all I really enjoyed this book it was old school romance for me. Ladies if you are looking for a read that will have you smiling and so relatable this is the read for you.

** ARC GIVEN IN EXCHANGE FOR AN HONEST REVIEW
Profile Image for 'The Book Queen'.
6,043 reviews116 followers
March 22, 2018
Nice story

I liked the story until it just ended abruptly. Otherwise, the story was about a mature couple, the story was nicely done. 4stars good...
Profile Image for Natalya | TheIslandReader.
283 reviews11 followers
March 21, 2018
Khalila has experienced tragedy and is in the midst of a divorce when she sees Douglas Blythe again at an annual golf tournament in Jamaica where she volunteers. She’s seen him at the same tournament in the past and there was always a slightly underlying attraction between them. This time, he’s ready to make a move and while she’s not completely ready to move on, she’s able to accept some of his advances.

Douglas was patient and understanding with Khalila as she struggled to figure out how to stand on her own again and move past her tragedy and failed marriage. He entered her life at the right time because Khalila was at a point in her life where grief was threatening to swallow her whole. It didn’t’ seem that she didn’t want to take steps forward even though she paid her friend and others lip service.

The Thick of Things was a mature romance, which was a refreshing change for me. Khalila and Douglas took things slow, though admittedly there were times when it was a bit too slow. If it were up to Douglas, they would’ve been a couple from the beginning but he gave her enough space to come to him and understand that he only had her best interest at heart. I respected that.

The Thick of Things is a novel about second chances, sunshine after a period of darkness and a reminder that it’s okay to feel joy again after immense pain.
Profile Image for Danielle.
807 reviews43 followers
March 22, 2018
Khalila is in a transition period in her life. She is still hurting from the death of her son and is in the process getting a divorce from her husband when Douglas comes into her life. He is definitely not what Khalila wants to deal with right now. She senses an attraction to him but she just isn't in a place to start something new. Douglas also feels the pull towards Khalila but he is determined to not take no for an answer and wants to show her how good he can be for her. I liked this book. It was a little different than ones I have read lately in that it featured an older couple and Khalila had a little more traditional values than I'm used to reading about. She was very concerned about what others think of her. Even though she was at the end of her marriage, it was still in the back of her mind making her not want to move further with Douglas. I really liked Douglas. He was interested in Khalila but he wasn't pushy with her. He was so sweet and kind and exactly what Khalila needed. I really liked these two together. Khalila still had a lot of issues to deal with in her divorce and moving forward with her sons death. I really like how the author addressed these issues and allowing Khalila to find the love she deserved again. I would recommend this one to others. 3 stars
Profile Image for Suze.
1,884 reviews1,298 followers
May 31, 2018
Khalila is heartbroken because of a terrible loss. Her husband wasn't able to support her and that means Khalila is also going through a divorce. The last thing she expects is to fall in love again. She thought she'd be numb forever, but Douglas manages to reawaken feelings in Khalila that she thought she'd never experience again. She isn't ready to deal with the changes his presence brings and tries to keep her distance. Douglas is persistent though. Will he be able to win Khalila's heart?

The Thick of Things is a moving romantic story. Khalila is grieving and this means she's just going through the motions. She is trying to survive each day and that's all she can manage. Douglas is kindhearted, patient, chivalrous, passionate and sweet. He truly listens and his gentle personality is exactly what Khalila needs to start healing. He's a wonderful man and Khalila deserves nothing less. She's a talented and smart woman who's been through a lot. She deserves some happiness after everything that happened to her and I couldn't turn the pages quickly enough to find out if she'd give Douglas a chance.

J.L. Campbell has a vivid writing style. I loved how she makes Khalila's emotions come to life. The Thick of Things is an impressive story filled with hope, true love and silver linings. Khalila will never be the woman she used to be, but being with Douglas and feeling attractive again gives her strength. I loved this honest and open approach of a difficult topic. J.L. Campbell writes with empathy and compassion. The Thick of Things is a beautiful love story that greatly affected me.
440 reviews
March 21, 2018
This is written in the first person narrative which is well carried out.

This is a contemporary novel set in Jamaica, some might call it ‘second chance’ genre. Khalila is soon to be divorced and still regards herself as a married woman. She meets Douglas while volunteering at a golf tournament and the attraction she feels surprises her after a long marriage and a traumatic and tragic event in her life has led her to become introspective. Her great friend helped her a lot through this time to see there is life to be lived if only she can comes to term with the past.

Now Douglas surprises her all the time but there are some issues in the way.

This is a well written, nicely paced novel with good characterisations of all the people in the book. The sensual/sexy scenes are well written, emotional and erotic without being coarse and lewd. This puts the book ‘up there’ in my estimation as opposed to others I have read that I’ve had to skip those parts. Well done, J.L. Campbell.

4 1/2 *
Profile Image for Tina Hayes.
Author 10 books57 followers
May 23, 2018
The Thick of Things by J.L. Campbell is a wonderful new novel that needs to be on everyone's 'Must Read' list. Khalila Skyers is reluctant to make necessary changes and decisions that will take her life in a new direction. Breaking emotional ties to the past is a painful process she would rather avoid, so she's thrown for a loop when fate steps in wearing golf shoes and a handsome smile.

Khalila's divorce is almost final when Douglas Blythe crosses her path at a golf tournament. After he sweeps her off her feet during a night of romance she will never forget, Khalila is so shocked by her own behavior that she tries her best to avoid Douglas as well as her feelings for him. You'll have to read the book to see what happens next on her emotional journey. I loved this story and highly recommend it!

The Thick of Things is steamy contemporary romance with a main character that is easy to relate to and root for. Set in Jamaica and Florida, the story takes you on a literary vacation full of sunshine and culture no matter what time of year you read it.
Profile Image for Celeste .
582 reviews6 followers
November 26, 2018
Khalila and Douglas

I have now read this story twice, and felt I could give it a non judgmental review. As someone whose never been married or lost a child, I cannot say how someone should cope with such a loss. I will say J.L. took me on a journey with this story. Had me looking at divorce differently. And the process of separation.

I was glad to see how Corrine was able to be a great sister friend to Khalila. We need more relationships like that. And as tough as it was to grasp Trent as being a good person. At the core of the matter he was. That was the revelation I got on this second read.

Khalila had emotionally and mentally shutdown and that is something I believe we can all relate.

Thus the Thick of Things had compounding layers. I recommend that you do what I had to do while reading this story: have compassion and empathy. Don't prejudge and form your own biases. Recognize that while it may not be your truth, it is so many others.

In all relationships we must do the work. Especially when an unthinkable storm comes.
152 reviews
August 19, 2018
Not bad

I was looking forward to this book. Not only is it written by a woman of colour, but it is also a mature romance, something I would like to see more of. But despite my enthusiasm, my feelings for this book were a bit lukewarm. I will admit I was slightly uncomfortable with the fact that the book begins while Kahlila was still married. Nevertheless she *is* in the final days of a dead marriage, and one of the sad facts about mature love is that it's rarely as neat as "first love". My real problem is that Kally and Doug never quite come alive. While I finished the book, there was very little spark between the couple. They just never came off the page the way I wanted them to. I hope the next book is about Kally's friend Corrinne. I am going to see if I maybe like that one better.
1,215 reviews3 followers
June 26, 2018
This was a cool read. Kahlila struggled to let herself be open to change and anything good after some major devesating and life altering events. She had a really good best friend that was a little too much in her business but it came from a genuine place of love and it help to keep Kahlila afloat. She needed a direct, kind sweet, loving and very patient man like Douglas to show her that she is strong enough swim on her own and along side someone else. I love how he encouraged her to go after her dreams and to open herself up to the possibilities.

I know she started in a tough place but there were a few times i was like girl do you need a virtual slap or a good shake. It nice to see her slow and realistic transformation.
Profile Image for D.
1,069 reviews
March 17, 2018
The Thick of Things

The Thick of Things is a great story of moving forward, second chances, and letting go of pain and sorrow. It was music for my soul, and I loved everything about it. Khalila got on my nerves a bit, but I understood why she was the she was and why she did the things she did. Loss and pain can make one gun shy and unsure of themselves. But Douglas was willing to allow her to set the pace of their relationship. I loved him because he did not give up and he understood those times when Khalila tried to run away from him, but he did not let her go. The melody of this story was brilliant and everynote was a perfect pitch. I highly recommend this book.

Profile Image for V. Rena.
1,662 reviews17 followers
June 3, 2018
Relentless pursuit

This is my first book to read by this author. Khalila had been in a depressed state for awhile, but her encounter with Douglas women her out of that state. With his love, encouragement, support, and care, she was able to find herself again and started to live life fully again. She ran from him as much as she could, but Douglas was very relentless in his pursuit of Khalila. By getting to know Douglas better, Khalila was able to let go of things that was holding her hostage, found herself and her passion again, and found love again when she least expected or wanted. She allowed herself to be happy again.
Profile Image for Shannan Harper.
2,470 reviews28 followers
April 1, 2018
This was not my first read by this author, and it definitely won't be my last. I have to say that I really enjoyed the chemistry between Douglas and Khalila. But I have to say my favorite character was Khalila's best friend, Corinne. She is one of those wild friends that every woman needs in their life. And the nerve of Trent, her soon to be ex husband. He needed to be knocked down a peg. I also enjoyed the growth of Khalila from the beginning to the end. Not to mention there was such detail, I might have to plan a trip to Montego Bay one day soon
Profile Image for Ruby.
648 reviews2 followers
June 2, 2018
Good Story!!!

Ms. Campbell has written a beautiful story for a mature couple who has been given a second chance at love. Douglas and Khalila met when Khalila was at a low point in her life. Despite Khalila resistance, Douglas did not give up on her. From Montego Bay, Jamaica and Miani, this couple relationship developed by them getting to know each other better first. Ms. Campbell has done a great job with this book and I hope we will learn more about Douglas and Khalila in the next book in the series.
Profile Image for Michele Hallahan.
260 reviews6 followers
November 25, 2018
Nice love story

This was a pretty nice read. A second chance kinda romance with a patient Hero, and a heroine that needs a little push to get out of the heartbreaking hole she's dug for herself. A bit slow at times, and not full of the steam I'm used to, but it was a nice, bring her out of her shell type of love story. I will be looking for their conclusion when it comes out. I'm interested in seeing if he's as good as he seems, and if she has any setbacks.
Profile Image for Geri Evans.
673 reviews
July 2, 2018
What A Story!!

We should all be so blessed to have a Douglas in our life who knows what he wants and goes after it and a Corinne who sticks by your side through the thick of things! This is a great book on a mature relationship that endures heartache, lost love and found passion. I highly recommend this story!
50 reviews
September 11, 2024
Heartfelt

This is truly a heartfelt story. I have never been through the hurt of losing a child but the way this story was written I could actually feel her pain. I loved the way the author took me through the different stages of her grief. Then the book was also a great love story. I recommend this book for reading.
Profile Image for Sharon Simmons.
828 reviews7 followers
March 18, 2025
Great story!

This was a great book! I love Douglas and how determined he was. Khalila was definitely an over thinker. I laughed and cried while reading this book. Corinne was a great friend and always kept it real. I'm glad I bought all three books! Off to start Book 2! Buy the series you won't be disappointed!
Profile Image for Pamelon.
933 reviews18 followers
March 24, 2018
The Thick of Things....loved it!!💖

This was a great story about life and it's ups and down.... Sadness, happiness, betrayal, loyalty and love. The characters were relatable and the storyline was enjoyable.
Profile Image for Brenda  Larnell.
442 reviews26 followers
April 1, 2018
I liked this story of second chances. Khalila Skyers is slowly reclaiming her life and Douglas Blythe is the catalyst who helps her do it. It is a slow process for the heroine, but the hero hangs in there with the patience of Job. Good story and I recommend it.
606 reviews
April 7, 2018
The Thick of Things

I chose this book because I enjoy this writer’s work. I thought this book was a slow start and really had a storyline that could have been told without a lot of drawn out drama. There was not much depth to the characters so I was a bit disappointed.
Profile Image for Helen Bowen.
42 reviews
May 11, 2018
Nice read but I wanted something more

Khalila & Douglas took me through their journey sometimes wanting to shake them! I wonder what the future will bring... I really want a lot for them!
Profile Image for Tikia.
409 reviews
June 7, 2018
Loved it!

Who says your first marriage is the one to last. Don't stay in limbo if you are not happy try to figure out a way to get your happy back. Khalila did just that and found her Douglas.
Profile Image for Sassha Reads❤️❤️.
2,066 reviews21 followers
February 26, 2019
It Was Okay

This was an okay read to me. It was too drawn out for me and I don't understand why things couldn't be summed up in one book. I skipped through some of the long drawn out conversations.
35 reviews
May 31, 2018
Great book

This was a great storyline. Characters well thought out. Gives hope to someone in the pit of depression. There has to be a book 2 for Corrine's story.
Profile Image for Denise Henry.
130 reviews
June 15, 2018
Unexpectedly good

I really enjoyed the mature romance. I would read this author again. Worth the read. My book club would enjoy this one.
Profile Image for Cassandra Johnson.
133 reviews1 follower
May 30, 2020
A good read

This is the second book I’ve read by this author and I thought this was a good romance novel with real life issues.
32 reviews1 follower
March 7, 2019
This was a story of life’s ups and downs. There was sadness and depression in Khalila, but she had inner strength. All she needed was someone to help bring that strength forward, and Douglas was just what the doctor ordered. A shoutout to her best friend Corrine. There’s much depth in this story. A great read.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 31 reviews

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