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Young Love
Sometimes you need to let yourself fall… Recently divorced Sienna Porter has the life she’s supposed to. A house, career, even a hot young contractor working upstairs to distract her. At thirty-eight, she’s entitled to a little fun (according to her best friend, anyway). Pain, though— it’s so clever in the way it infects hope and poisons happiness. Jace Beckett should be flying high. Talented, driven, and disciplined, he’s far beyond his twenty-three years. He’s used to the game, the attention his looks and highly trained body get from women. Doesn’t mean he likes to play. Doesn’t mean his own secrets aren’t intent on tearing him down. It’s just a fling. Sexy. Temporary. It’s not supposed to last. It’s not supposed to transform into love. It’s certainly not supposed to become the air you breathe and everything worth fighting for.
302 pages, Paperback
First published July 25, 2018
104 people are currently reading
506 people want to read
About the author
Alyson Santos
21 books946 followersI’m a writer, musician, and cat lover. Not always in that order.
I write what needs to come out, whether it’s pain, tears, or laughter. I write people and relationships, about the beauty and horror of what we do to ourselves and each other. I write Love. Vengeance. Compassion. Cruelty. Trust. Betrayal. Forgiveness. Darkness, and the incredible way humans destroy and heal each other.
I like to eradicate barriers, refusing to be confined by the laws of physics or limitations of reality. I will befriend a vast population of possibilities and introduce them in ways that might surprise you.
I write what needs to come out, whether it’s pain, tears, or laughter. I write people and relationships, about the beauty and horror of what we do to ourselves and each other. I write Love. Vengeance. Compassion. Cruelty. Trust. Betrayal. Forgiveness. Darkness, and the incredible way humans destroy and heal each other.
I like to eradicate barriers, refusing to be confined by the laws of physics or limitations of reality. I will befriend a vast population of possibilities and introduce them in ways that might surprise you.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 114 reviews
July 16, 2018
Once in a while a person comes along who changes your entire outlook on life and how you view yourself. For Sienna that person is Jace who changes her life irrevocably. Up until she meets Jace her life has been pretty mundane. Sienna is divorced and doesn’t have a good relationship with her ex, her work is now her only constant with her being a consultant and has a knack for numbers. The people in her life, her friend Karen and her mother, only criticize and puts her down so her self esteem is at her lowest.
When Jace enters her life Sienna is cautious but soon feels that this twenty three year old man has something special about him.
Their friendship and relationship as lovers is based upon respect and bringing out the best in one another. Jace doesn’t like the word “can’t” in his vocabulary and does everything to teach Sienna the same. Nothing is impossible.
Jace is such an enigmatic man but when he lets Sienna inside she sees what a special and strong man he truly is. The responsibility he takes on for the people that matters the most to him.
The growth and evolution Sienna embarks upon thanks to Jace is incredible and worth reading and experiencing. She goes from a timid to a powerful woman where once she sits her mind on something it’s going to be achieved.
Alyson Santos masters contemporary romance with a flawless ease and has created likable and captivating characters. Young Love is so much more than age being hindrance for love. This is all about the characters and their journey. Together and individually.
4 BadAssDirtyDon’tHoldBackStars
** Young Love was generously provided by Give Me Book Promotions in exchange for my honest review **
When Jace enters her life Sienna is cautious but soon feels that this twenty three year old man has something special about him.
Their friendship and relationship as lovers is based upon respect and bringing out the best in one another. Jace doesn’t like the word “can’t” in his vocabulary and does everything to teach Sienna the same. Nothing is impossible.
Jace is such an enigmatic man but when he lets Sienna inside she sees what a special and strong man he truly is. The responsibility he takes on for the people that matters the most to him.
The growth and evolution Sienna embarks upon thanks to Jace is incredible and worth reading and experiencing. She goes from a timid to a powerful woman where once she sits her mind on something it’s going to be achieved.
Alyson Santos masters contemporary romance with a flawless ease and has created likable and captivating characters. Young Love is so much more than age being hindrance for love. This is all about the characters and their journey. Together and individually.
4 BadAssDirtyDon’tHoldBackStars
** Young Love was generously provided by Give Me Book Promotions in exchange for my honest review **
February 21, 2020
DNF at 35%
I love "younger man" trope so I was excited about this book but it is a huge disappointment...
My recommendation about this book is, even if you are a huge fan of the "younger man" trope like me, don't even bother about reading it. Go read "Kiss My Ash by Leddy Harper", " All Grown up" by Vi Keeland or "Milf: Wrong Kind of Love" by Erin Noelle. This book is not only a lame attempt at writing a younger man & older woman book, it is a very unsuccessful attempt at writing a romance book in general.
The writing is awful... It's bad, really bad. The characterization is terrible. The dialogues are stupid.
There is this couple with no chemistry between them. And because all sex scenes are "fade to black" scenes, there sure is no passion there, either.
There is a "boring-as-hell" plot line that should never be merged with this trope. The guy has an abusive step-father who treats him really badly. Our guy has a plan but until he makes his move, he lets the step-father humiliate him and even physically abuse him.
The woman is recently divorced and she lacks self- confidence. She still lets her ex husband come and treat her as a doormat or even less. And when she tries to be a confident woman with the hero, she sounds awkward. She is also obsessed with numbers but it is also very dumb the way it is used.
Oh, well, everything is silly. As I said, don't even bother.
I love "younger man" trope so I was excited about this book but it is a huge disappointment...
My recommendation about this book is, even if you are a huge fan of the "younger man" trope like me, don't even bother about reading it. Go read "Kiss My Ash by Leddy Harper", " All Grown up" by Vi Keeland or "Milf: Wrong Kind of Love" by Erin Noelle. This book is not only a lame attempt at writing a younger man & older woman book, it is a very unsuccessful attempt at writing a romance book in general.
The writing is awful... It's bad, really bad. The characterization is terrible. The dialogues are stupid.
There is this couple with no chemistry between them. And because all sex scenes are "fade to black" scenes, there sure is no passion there, either.
There is a "boring-as-hell" plot line that should never be merged with this trope. The guy has an abusive step-father who treats him really badly. Our guy has a plan but until he makes his move, he lets the step-father humiliate him and even physically abuse him.
The woman is recently divorced and she lacks self- confidence. She still lets her ex husband come and treat her as a doormat or even less. And when she tries to be a confident woman with the hero, she sounds awkward. She is also obsessed with numbers but it is also very dumb the way it is used.
Oh, well, everything is silly. As I said, don't even bother.
June 15, 2018
J'Adore
I absolutely adore this book and will never forget what I just read.
I fell in love with Alyson Santos' beautiful writing and real conflicts in her Night Shifts Black series, and with Young Love she's showing how she's already evolved into being able to write anything.
Sienna Porter is hilarious, sarcastic, sweet, and uptight. Her self-confidence is non-existent thanks to an overbearing mother and a dominant, good-for-nothing ex husband who left her for someone else.
In her door barges the antithesis of anything Sienna thinks she deserves, and everything social norms tell her not to accept... in the shape of the young--very young--troubled hunk, Jace Beckett.
Alyson Santos has packed scorching chemistry into a gorgeous package of angsty could-bes and can't-bes. The story is so real, you sit at the edge of your seat, until you finally understand, together with the characters, how their ever-after needs to be.
I promise laughter. So much laughter.
I promise nail-biting.
I promise tears of grief and tears of joy.
Alyson has forever cemented herself as one of my always-authors. Because that's how she rolls. That's how she wields her pen, with the certainty of someone who turns words into magic.
I absolutely adore this book and will never forget what I just read.
I fell in love with Alyson Santos' beautiful writing and real conflicts in her Night Shifts Black series, and with Young Love she's showing how she's already evolved into being able to write anything.
Sienna Porter is hilarious, sarcastic, sweet, and uptight. Her self-confidence is non-existent thanks to an overbearing mother and a dominant, good-for-nothing ex husband who left her for someone else.
In her door barges the antithesis of anything Sienna thinks she deserves, and everything social norms tell her not to accept... in the shape of the young--very young--troubled hunk, Jace Beckett.
Alyson Santos has packed scorching chemistry into a gorgeous package of angsty could-bes and can't-bes. The story is so real, you sit at the edge of your seat, until you finally understand, together with the characters, how their ever-after needs to be.
I promise laughter. So much laughter.
I promise nail-biting.
I promise tears of grief and tears of joy.
Alyson has forever cemented herself as one of my always-authors. Because that's how she rolls. That's how she wields her pen, with the certainty of someone who turns words into magic.
July 11, 2018
A page turner from the start, I found Young Love to be highly addictive and couldn't put it down. This author's ability to create such believable characters never ceases to amaze me, and Jace and Sienna are no exception. I can't get enough of Alyson Santos and am anxiously awaiting her next sure-to-be-spectacular creation!
July 18, 2018
Li com muitas expectativas por abordar um dos argumentos que adoro em livros (Romance entre personagens com grande diferença de idade) mas não foi tudo que esperava, mesmo o livro tendo sido bem escrito.
De um lado temos Sienna, uma mulher de trinta e oito anos divorciada, solitária e rodeada de pessoas que a deixam para baixo e a criticam o tempo inteiro. Do outro Jace, um homem de 23 anos com sérios problemas em casa com seu padrasto e grandes preocupações com sua mãe e seu irmão mais novo.
Sienna conhece Jace quando ele vai trabalhar na reforma de sua casa e logo uma conexão se forma, fazendo com que a vida de ambos mude. Ela ganha mais atitude a respeito da maldades que aceitava escutar e também permite-se experimentar e retomar atividades que sempre fizeram parte de seu interesse pessoal. Já Jace ganha uma companheira que o ajuda a lidar com seus problemas e responsabilidades que ganhou desde que seu pai faleceu.
Gostei de ambos os personagens, do jeito mais sensível e crente de Sienna e todo o mistério de Jace, sua maturidade e atitude, mas acho que faltou química entre eles. O romance ocorreu de forma muito instantânea, não consegui me envolver com eles e nem com os conflitos que surgiam e se resolvem depois que eles já estavam juntos.
O final também foi muito corrido e não conseguiu me envolver. A impressão que deu é que a autora quis inserir muitas coisas onde não precisava e não conseguiu desenvolver todos os elementos como mereciam, mesmo ela escrevendo bem e sabendo conduzir a história.
Arc gentilmente cedido pela autora e Give-me books. Obrigada.
De um lado temos Sienna, uma mulher de trinta e oito anos divorciada, solitária e rodeada de pessoas que a deixam para baixo e a criticam o tempo inteiro. Do outro Jace, um homem de 23 anos com sérios problemas em casa com seu padrasto e grandes preocupações com sua mãe e seu irmão mais novo.
Sienna conhece Jace quando ele vai trabalhar na reforma de sua casa e logo uma conexão se forma, fazendo com que a vida de ambos mude. Ela ganha mais atitude a respeito da maldades que aceitava escutar e também permite-se experimentar e retomar atividades que sempre fizeram parte de seu interesse pessoal. Já Jace ganha uma companheira que o ajuda a lidar com seus problemas e responsabilidades que ganhou desde que seu pai faleceu.
Gostei de ambos os personagens, do jeito mais sensível e crente de Sienna e todo o mistério de Jace, sua maturidade e atitude, mas acho que faltou química entre eles. O romance ocorreu de forma muito instantânea, não consegui me envolver com eles e nem com os conflitos que surgiam e se resolvem depois que eles já estavam juntos.
O final também foi muito corrido e não conseguiu me envolver. A impressão que deu é que a autora quis inserir muitas coisas onde não precisava e não conseguiu desenvolver todos os elementos como mereciam, mesmo ela escrevendo bem e sabendo conduzir a história.
Arc gentilmente cedido pela autora e Give-me books. Obrigada.
June 24, 2018
You know when you're trying to write a review and your nose starts tingling and you have tears well up in your eyes thinking of the book? Yeah, that's exactly what's happening right now to me trying to come up with the words for this book.
What do you say when the love of your life is standing in front of you and asking what you want but you're afraid to answer because of what others might think or say? Are you going to have the courage to answer what you really want or are you too scared? What if the answer you give is going to break both of your hearts? If only you could look in the future and see what it was to make your answer easy.
"One: the number of lives we have. Zero: the number of regrets we can afford."
I know when I read one of Alyson's books I'm going to get absolutely nothing else done until I'm done with the book, I'm going to laugh, have some "oh no!" moments and I'm going to cry. Absolutely love her writing style and stories!!!
What do you say when the love of your life is standing in front of you and asking what you want but you're afraid to answer because of what others might think or say? Are you going to have the courage to answer what you really want or are you too scared? What if the answer you give is going to break both of your hearts? If only you could look in the future and see what it was to make your answer easy.
"One: the number of lives we have. Zero: the number of regrets we can afford."
I know when I read one of Alyson's books I'm going to get absolutely nothing else done until I'm done with the book, I'm going to laugh, have some "oh no!" moments and I'm going to cry. Absolutely love her writing style and stories!!!
July 16, 2018
5 Cranky Stars
8 hours I was lost in this world
7 the number of times I sighed and rooted for them
6 the number of times I called her mom some unsavory names
5 the number of times my heart broke
4 the number of times I was raging angry
3 the number of times I wanted to really punch her ex (probably more)
2 the number of times I said darn I want to learn Karate
1 day was all it took me to read the story of Sienna and Jace
Sienna is a divorcee whose mother and ex-husband really did a number on her mentally. She forever doubts herself and gives up her art for numbers because numbers don’t lie. Forever told she’s not enough. Not pretty enough, not good enough and her personality just isn’t enough. She maintains the worst friendship ever with Karen (that witch) just to say she has a friend. She’s now 38 and living the safest life possible until Jace enters and rocks her world. The only thing holding her back is the nagging voice in her head and the 15-year age difference between the two. When she finally succumbs, her world is rocked on its foundation and she starts to take risks.
Jace is just trying to get by and shield his baby brother from the wrath that is Louis and from seeing his mother slowly fall into mental insanity. He becomes the target for Louis and earns his place in Aidens life by essentially being a slave for him. He has so many hopes and aspirations and his only outlet is karate and his music but he’s barely treading water. Jace wasn’t looking for anyone especially Sienna but she gives him hope and someone to stand by him despite it all. He doesn’t see the age difference he only sees all the beauty and intelligence that Sienna possesses.
Sweet puppies this book. Once again Alyson Santos takes such heavy topics and gives you hope. Hope that if you keep pushing you’ll end up on the other side a better wiser person. I’m the same age as Sienna and I kind of feel it is an age that can be like purgatory. Too old for one thing but too young for others. Sienna is the kind of woman we need. She gives us hope that we are NEVER too young to achieve something and take a risk. Jace is just everything. I don’t have words for him and seriously that’s a first for me. He’s wise beyond his years and oh so sexy but honest and hardworking. Karen well I spotted her a mile away because I once was in that spot. Holding onto a friendship for the sake of the fact we had been friends forever. Also, can we talk about karate?
I mean Alyson had me wanting to try my hand at it which wouldn’t be wise with my condition but nonetheless I wanted to be a karate chopping kick butt mofo. Ms. Santos in the immortal words of that song from the Karate Kid…..you’re the best around nothings gonna ever keep you down.
8 hours I was lost in this world
7 the number of times I sighed and rooted for them
6 the number of times I called her mom some unsavory names
5 the number of times my heart broke
4 the number of times I was raging angry
3 the number of times I wanted to really punch her ex (probably more)
2 the number of times I said darn I want to learn Karate
1 day was all it took me to read the story of Sienna and Jace
Sienna is a divorcee whose mother and ex-husband really did a number on her mentally. She forever doubts herself and gives up her art for numbers because numbers don’t lie. Forever told she’s not enough. Not pretty enough, not good enough and her personality just isn’t enough. She maintains the worst friendship ever with Karen (that witch) just to say she has a friend. She’s now 38 and living the safest life possible until Jace enters and rocks her world. The only thing holding her back is the nagging voice in her head and the 15-year age difference between the two. When she finally succumbs, her world is rocked on its foundation and she starts to take risks.
Jace is just trying to get by and shield his baby brother from the wrath that is Louis and from seeing his mother slowly fall into mental insanity. He becomes the target for Louis and earns his place in Aidens life by essentially being a slave for him. He has so many hopes and aspirations and his only outlet is karate and his music but he’s barely treading water. Jace wasn’t looking for anyone especially Sienna but she gives him hope and someone to stand by him despite it all. He doesn’t see the age difference he only sees all the beauty and intelligence that Sienna possesses.
Sweet puppies this book. Once again Alyson Santos takes such heavy topics and gives you hope. Hope that if you keep pushing you’ll end up on the other side a better wiser person. I’m the same age as Sienna and I kind of feel it is an age that can be like purgatory. Too old for one thing but too young for others. Sienna is the kind of woman we need. She gives us hope that we are NEVER too young to achieve something and take a risk. Jace is just everything. I don’t have words for him and seriously that’s a first for me. He’s wise beyond his years and oh so sexy but honest and hardworking. Karen well I spotted her a mile away because I once was in that spot. Holding onto a friendship for the sake of the fact we had been friends forever. Also, can we talk about karate?
I mean Alyson had me wanting to try my hand at it which wouldn’t be wise with my condition but nonetheless I wanted to be a karate chopping kick butt mofo. Ms. Santos in the immortal words of that song from the Karate Kid…..you’re the best around nothings gonna ever keep you down.
July 17, 2018
**Young Love generously provided in exchange for an honest review.**
3 "Numbers never failed." Stars
I just recently became of this author with her Night Shifts Black series and was interested in reading more of her book. With this book I found myself falling for it much later than I expected. The unconventional yet beautiful relationship started really fast and it took me a while to really feel the basis of that connection beyond the superficial. The first probably 35-40% felt a little disconnected and disjointed in the direction the book was seemingly taking. Once over that hurdle when the depth of feelings and histories of those characters really started to take root and shine I was enamored with the couple and felt big things. The conflict surrounding both main characters really hit it home for me and doubled to truly solidify their purpose and connection.
Sienna and Jace are an unlikely pair not only because of where there are in their lives but also because of the vast differences in their personalities. The shining star here really leans to be Sienna, a woman torn between who she thinks she is and who she wants to be. With Jace providing so much she blossoms. There was a point when I questioned whether her actions were just wrapped around this man without any fore thought on becoming her own woman but as Santos moves us along the story we really feel the steady uprise of Sienna and believe in her as herself. The love between them flourishes as a result and we see the soulful, heart breaking connection they overcome.
With some story telling areas that felt off to me I still ended up really enjoying this book. Alyson Santos writes in the first person with a concise and consistent manner of constantly moving her characters forward. This was a different kind of book for a multitude of reasons something I find fascinating about her style. She doesn't blend into the romance genre instead creating plots and characters who don't fit in the typical molds and for that alone her stories hold interest.
3 "Numbers never failed." Stars
I just recently became of this author with her Night Shifts Black series and was interested in reading more of her book. With this book I found myself falling for it much later than I expected. The unconventional yet beautiful relationship started really fast and it took me a while to really feel the basis of that connection beyond the superficial. The first probably 35-40% felt a little disconnected and disjointed in the direction the book was seemingly taking. Once over that hurdle when the depth of feelings and histories of those characters really started to take root and shine I was enamored with the couple and felt big things. The conflict surrounding both main characters really hit it home for me and doubled to truly solidify their purpose and connection.
Sienna and Jace are an unlikely pair not only because of where there are in their lives but also because of the vast differences in their personalities. The shining star here really leans to be Sienna, a woman torn between who she thinks she is and who she wants to be. With Jace providing so much she blossoms. There was a point when I questioned whether her actions were just wrapped around this man without any fore thought on becoming her own woman but as Santos moves us along the story we really feel the steady uprise of Sienna and believe in her as herself. The love between them flourishes as a result and we see the soulful, heart breaking connection they overcome.
With some story telling areas that felt off to me I still ended up really enjoying this book. Alyson Santos writes in the first person with a concise and consistent manner of constantly moving her characters forward. This was a different kind of book for a multitude of reasons something I find fascinating about her style. She doesn't blend into the romance genre instead creating plots and characters who don't fit in the typical molds and for that alone her stories hold interest.
July 13, 2018
I love this author's writing style, each book gives you something to think about, an insight into the thoughts that go through our heads and how powerful they can be.
Sienna is 38, a divorcee surrounded by toxic people who put her down and generally make her feel less. Jace is only 24 but his life experiences have left him strong, self assured and knowing what his priorities are. Judged by all as they come together they seem to be overcoming all the negativity in their lives, but facing them are difficult choices and I found this part particularly hard. I felt every emotion as their relationship developed, the highs and the lows.
You never get an average love story from Ms Santos, its always something deeper, a reminder to live life to its fullest, to find what you love and pursue it, to never give up. Relatable characters that you are still thinking about long after the book is finished.
By the end of this book I was so proud of Sienna, the changes she made in her life to bring the colour. I would love to have Sienna as a friend, strong and beautiful inside and out, a reminder to never let anyone dull your sparkle.
Sienna is 38, a divorcee surrounded by toxic people who put her down and generally make her feel less. Jace is only 24 but his life experiences have left him strong, self assured and knowing what his priorities are. Judged by all as they come together they seem to be overcoming all the negativity in their lives, but facing them are difficult choices and I found this part particularly hard. I felt every emotion as their relationship developed, the highs and the lows.
You never get an average love story from Ms Santos, its always something deeper, a reminder to live life to its fullest, to find what you love and pursue it, to never give up. Relatable characters that you are still thinking about long after the book is finished.
By the end of this book I was so proud of Sienna, the changes she made in her life to bring the colour. I would love to have Sienna as a friend, strong and beautiful inside and out, a reminder to never let anyone dull your sparkle.
August 1, 2018
‘He cups my face, trapping my gaze on his. Melting me. Drowning me. I just want. There it is again, that terrifying four-letter word. “What do you want?” I whisper
“Real.”
This is our fourth book by Alyson Santos and if there’s one thing we’ve learned from her writing, it’s the absolute passion she brings to her stories. Alyson writes from the heart and it shows. It shows in the protectiveness of her characters, and in the way she tells their story. It’s all about the emotion, the characters. Young Love isn’t some hot forbidden romp between a 38 year old divorcee and a 23 year old man, it’s a story of self-discovery, responsibility, loyalty, and love, about healing and taking risks with your heart.
‘Fairytales, they’re what shape moments like this. Dreams, fantasies, idealized versions of history that lie after the smoothing effect of time. My heart wants desperately to believe. Hope. Accept that maybe Jace is right and wanting something is enough to make it happen.
But this is no epic love story, and we certainly don’t live in a magical kingdom. No, this is reality, where hearts shatter and princes fall.’
Alyson Santos doesn’t shy away from delivering honesty in her stories, and as such Young Love is a raw peek into a love that seemed thwarted at every turn – by judgment, insecurities, and baggage from the past and present on both sides.
Sienna Porter is a 38 year old divorcee who seems to have lost her spark and her identity following her acrimonious marriage breakup. Sienna is surrounded by toxic people and plagued by echoes of negativity lauded on her by her ex, Joe and her mother Carol. Their constant criticisms ring in her ears in every decision she makes. She’s existing day by day and her best friend Karen seems to delight in Sienna’s misery and heartache.
When Sienna hires a contracting firm to renovate her Victorian terrace, Louis and his stepson, 23 year old Jace Beckett turn up. Sienna feels an instant attraction to Jace, yet chides herself for experiencing an awakening of feelings she hasn’t felt for a long time, if ever. The attraction is mutual and some sweet harmless flirting ensues, much to the ire of Jace’s arsehole stepfather.
Sienna and Jake soon embark on a secret tryst that becomes so much more, though both have barriers standing in the way of their relationship as it develops. Jace with his deep responsibility to his eight year old brother Aiden, and Sienna weighing up the prejudicial voices in her head.
It is when their backstories unfolded that we began to really experience the connection between Sienna and Jace, as wounds and feelings are laid bare, Jace gives Sienna the self-confidence she so sorely lacks, Sienna provides Jace with the strength he desperately needs.
“Don’t hold back.”
Alyson Santos is a very expressive author, which we love, yet there were times through the middle of the story where some aspects felt a little drawn out. However, there were other times where we sat on tenterhooks whilst she broke our hearts because Sienna and Jace’s struggle felt so real.
A heartfelt story with an epilogue that was everything, we devoured it! A beautiful, meaningful and perfect way to complete Sienna and Jace’s story. “I think I’m ready to kick life’s ass.” You go girl!
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July 14, 2018
Oh. My. Goodness.
This book.
The story told within these pages is so much more than a "simple" love story between a man and a woman. It is full of heart and fear and hope.
Ms Santos has once again wrung me out emotionally and put me back together again with this touchingly beautiful story.
I adored her characters. I adored their connection.
Bottom line? I adored this book.
I voluntarily reviewed an advanced reader copy of this book.
This book.
The story told within these pages is so much more than a "simple" love story between a man and a woman. It is full of heart and fear and hope.
Ms Santos has once again wrung me out emotionally and put me back together again with this touchingly beautiful story.
I adored her characters. I adored their connection.
Bottom line? I adored this book.
I voluntarily reviewed an advanced reader copy of this book.
May 29, 2021
Young Love by Alyson Santos is one of those rare gems of a book that not only has a beautiful heartfelt storyline, but also one that helps each of us remember that there is more. We don’t have to settle. We don’t have to hold ourselves back.
Sienna Porter has experienced life. She has been in love and has also had her own world shattered.
Jace Beckett’s life has not been easy. He maybe what many would consider young. But at heart he is an old soul who puts others ahead of himself. Even if it means sacrificing his own dreams.
Both of these amazing characters will go through more than they thought possible. The question will be, will they ever be able to find their way together?
I love that Santos gives us characters that we can relate to, and learn from. It’s a reminder to each of us that we are stronger than we think and to never give up!
“Sometimes you need to let yourself fall ... “
“Don’t hold back”
5 Huge Stars!!!
Sienna Porter has experienced life. She has been in love and has also had her own world shattered.
Jace Beckett’s life has not been easy. He maybe what many would consider young. But at heart he is an old soul who puts others ahead of himself. Even if it means sacrificing his own dreams.
Both of these amazing characters will go through more than they thought possible. The question will be, will they ever be able to find their way together?
I love that Santos gives us characters that we can relate to, and learn from. It’s a reminder to each of us that we are stronger than we think and to never give up!
“Sometimes you need to let yourself fall ... “
“Don’t hold back”
5 Huge Stars!!!
August 25, 2018
‘He cups my face, trapping my gaze on his. Melting me. Drowning me. I just want. There it is again, that terrifying four-letter word. “What do you want?” I whisper
“Real.”
This is our fourth book by Alyson Santos and if there’s one thing we’ve learned from her writing, it’s the absolute passion she brings to her stories. Alyson writes from the heart and it shows. It shows in the protectiveness of her characters, and in the way she tells their story. It’s all about the emotion, the characters. Young Love isn’t some hot forbidden romp between a 38 year old divorcee and a 23 year old man, it’s a story of self-discovery, responsibility, loyalty, and love, about healing and taking risks with your heart.
‘Fairytales, they’re what shape moments like this. Dreams, fantasies, idealized versions of history that lie after the smoothing effect of time. My heart wants desperately to believe. Hope. Accept that maybe Jace is right and wanting something is enough to make it happen.
But this is no epic love story, and we certainly don’t live in a magical kingdom. No, this is reality, where hearts shatter and princes fall.’
Alyson Santos doesn’t shy away from delivering honesty in her stories, and as such Young Love is a raw peek into a love that seemed thwarted at every turn – by judgment, insecurities, and baggage from the past and present on both sides.
Sienna Porter is a 38 year old divorcee who seems to have lost her spark and her identity following her acrimonious marriage breakup. Sienna is surrounded by toxic people and plagued by echoes of negativity lauded on her by her ex, Joe and her mother Carol. Their constant criticisms ring in her ears in every decision she makes. She’s existing day by day and her best friend Karen seems to delight in Sienna’s misery and heartache.
When Sienna hires a contracting firm to renovate her Victorian terrace, Louis and his stepson, 23 year old Jace Beckett turn up. Sienna feels an instant attraction to Jace, yet chides herself for experiencing an awakening of feelings she hasn’t felt for a long time, if ever. The attraction is mutual and some sweet harmless flirting ensues, much to the ire of Jace’s arsehole stepfather.
Sienna and Jake soon embark on a secret tryst that becomes so much more, though both have barriers standing in the way of their relationship as it develops. Jace with his deep responsibility to his eight year old brother Aiden, and Sienna weighing up the prejudicial voices in her head.
It is when their backstories unfolded that we began to really experience the connection between Sienna and Jace, as wounds and feelings are laid bare, Jace gives Sienna the self-confidence she so sorely lacks, Sienna provides Jace with the strength he desperately needs.
“Don’t hold back.”
Alyson Santos is a very expressive author, which we love, yet there were times through the middle of the story where some aspects felt a little drawn out. However, there were other times where we sat on tenterhooks whilst she broke our hearts because Sienna and Jace’s struggle felt so real.
A heartfelt story with an epilogue that was everything, we devoured it! A beautiful, meaningful and perfect way to complete Sienna and Jace’s story. “I think I’m ready to kick life’s ass.” You go girl!
YOUNG LOVE is now available to purchase below
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July 13, 2018
Love. That’s what this book is about.
Who to love.
How to love.
Why to love.
When to love.
Thirty-eight year old Sienna has struggled to love herself just about her whole life. Then she settled with a man who then struggled to love her enough. When he rolls out and she’s left alone, and her only friend has a not so friendly agenda.
So, imagine her surprise when the contractors she’s hired to do renovations on her home show up and the gorgeous 23 year old carpenter, Jace, is interested in her.
Jace has had a rough life. His struggles are different than Sienna’s but no less consuming. But what’s most inspiring about Jace is his outlook on life. For being so young, his soul is so wise. He opens Sienna’s mind to all of the things she never knew she could be.
There is so much love, strength, healing and growth that both of these characters go through. My heart pounded and fluttered and broke at least a dozen times while reading this story.
I loved this beautiful love story.
Who to love.
How to love.
Why to love.
When to love.
Thirty-eight year old Sienna has struggled to love herself just about her whole life. Then she settled with a man who then struggled to love her enough. When he rolls out and she’s left alone, and her only friend has a not so friendly agenda.
So, imagine her surprise when the contractors she’s hired to do renovations on her home show up and the gorgeous 23 year old carpenter, Jace, is interested in her.
Jace has had a rough life. His struggles are different than Sienna’s but no less consuming. But what’s most inspiring about Jace is his outlook on life. For being so young, his soul is so wise. He opens Sienna’s mind to all of the things she never knew she could be.
There is so much love, strength, healing and growth that both of these characters go through. My heart pounded and fluttered and broke at least a dozen times while reading this story.
I loved this beautiful love story.
July 24, 2018
4 Sweet & Sexy Stars!
From the moment I began reading this novel, I was swept away into a captivating world that only Alyson Santos can create. Her words and beautiful writing, weaving their way into my mind, ensuring that I would devour each and every bit.
Sienna Porter is 38, beautiful, smart, witty and sweet. She is a bit timid though due to a domineering ex-husband who left her for another woman.
Jace Beckett is 23, sexy, talented, driven and troubled, dealing with an abusive stepfather while trying to gain custody of his younger brother.
Young Love is brilliantly written and is a heartwarming romance. It is a story about devotion and hope. It is a story of loss and heartache. It is a story about living and never wasting a moment. It is a story of forgiveness. It is a book that will remain with you long after you reach the end.
From the moment I began reading this novel, I was swept away into a captivating world that only Alyson Santos can create. Her words and beautiful writing, weaving their way into my mind, ensuring that I would devour each and every bit.
Sienna Porter is 38, beautiful, smart, witty and sweet. She is a bit timid though due to a domineering ex-husband who left her for another woman.
Jace Beckett is 23, sexy, talented, driven and troubled, dealing with an abusive stepfather while trying to gain custody of his younger brother.
Young Love is brilliantly written and is a heartwarming romance. It is a story about devotion and hope. It is a story of loss and heartache. It is a story about living and never wasting a moment. It is a story of forgiveness. It is a book that will remain with you long after you reach the end.
June 22, 2018
Forget the cookie-cutter romances… Young Love is a powerful book that smashes preconceived notions about relationships, age, and the things we think we deserve. Jace and Sienna are so relatable, and their story reminds us that it’s never too late—or too early—to find The One.
July 31, 2019
Oh Mylanta! I thought that this was gonna be another older woman/younger man romance.
But oh mylanta Jace Beckett totally stole my heart
He didn’t just want to be just any younger man that had an older woman drooling and oogoling over him! Oh no siree!He was determined that Sienna Porter to know all about him! But no romance comes without some ups and downs,jealous best friend ,unavailable Mom and asshole of a stepdad and that is just what Beckett deals with.Sienna recently divorced and thrown away because she was (broken) by her asshole of an ex husband has her demons to deal with also. Have been raised by a judgemental uptight shrew of a Mother ,Sienna questions everything about herself...
Just go read this beautiful story!
But oh mylanta Jace Beckett totally stole my heart
He didn’t just want to be just any younger man that had an older woman drooling and oogoling over him! Oh no siree!He was determined that Sienna Porter to know all about him! But no romance comes without some ups and downs,jealous best friend ,unavailable Mom and asshole of a stepdad and that is just what Beckett deals with.Sienna recently divorced and thrown away because she was (broken) by her asshole of an ex husband has her demons to deal with also. Have been raised by a judgemental uptight shrew of a Mother ,Sienna questions everything about herself...
Just go read this beautiful story!
July 24, 2018
I’m so in love with Young Love. Santos blew this one out the water. So, so good.
July 30, 2018
First book by this author.
This was my first book by this author. It had a great storyline characters were great and Jace he was super swoony. My only issue was I wanted more steam.
This was my first book by this author. It had a great storyline characters were great and Jace he was super swoony. My only issue was I wanted more steam.
July 25, 2018
Alyson never fails to impress me with her words and I am always waiting impatiently for her next book.
What she has delivered with ‘Young Love’ is a beautiful, addictive book that will have you hooked from beginning to end.
Sienna and Jace were the definition of soulmates and their love was absolutely breathtaking.
In a world of ‘cant’ and ‘shouldn’t’ they proved that they ‘can’. They have each other hope and showed that you should never ‘hold back’ on the things that make you happy, even if it isn’t the ‘norm’.
I really did enjoy this book and could’ve quite happily kept reading long after it had finished.
What she has delivered with ‘Young Love’ is a beautiful, addictive book that will have you hooked from beginning to end.
Sienna and Jace were the definition of soulmates and their love was absolutely breathtaking.
In a world of ‘cant’ and ‘shouldn’t’ they proved that they ‘can’. They have each other hope and showed that you should never ‘hold back’ on the things that make you happy, even if it isn’t the ‘norm’.
I really did enjoy this book and could’ve quite happily kept reading long after it had finished.
July 25, 2018
I hate to admit this but this was my first book by Alyson and I will for FREAKIN’ sure be going to read all of her other books.
The older woman and younger man forbidden romance are my new favorite reads and this one did not disappoint. This book has me on a roller coaster of emotion! Laughing, crying, swooning... all the feels!
I’m happy they get their amazing HEA but I won’t lie I was very heartbroken before this.
I can’t wait to read more of Alyson’s books!
The older woman and younger man forbidden romance are my new favorite reads and this one did not disappoint. This book has me on a roller coaster of emotion! Laughing, crying, swooning... all the feels!
I’m happy they get their amazing HEA but I won’t lie I was very heartbroken before this.
I can’t wait to read more of Alyson’s books!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
December 16, 2018
*** ARC kindly provided for an honest review. ***
I’m a sucker for Alyson Santos’ stories. The topic covered, a relationship between a divorcee who fell for a younger man and the hardships they had to overcome all along the way as a couple but also as individuals was moving, gut-wrenching and inspiring.
A self discovering journey for Sienna who lived for a long time in a planned life, well hidden behind numbers, something comforting, always being denigrated for years by her family and friends and made her lost her confidence in the way. After a failed marriage, it was time to live again. What she didn’t expect was to meet a man who’s gonna change her life forever.
Jace might be younger but he was so wise beyond his age and experienced somehow. When he first met Sienna, he felt the connection and wasn’t afraid to go for it. Book boyfriend material, sensitive, caring, so swoon worthy… le freaking sigh.
A beautiful soul who was constantly fighting and never holding back.
Between Sienna and Jace it was beyond the physical and learnt more from themselves everyday. Despite of people’s assumptions, they never cease to prove they wrong and to fight, to support the other. No matter what.
This story was told with such maturity and genuineness. A magnificent story building a powerful emotional connection between the main characters.
It was emotional for sure, but damn if that book didn’t make me smile so hard. It warmed my heart. So much!
I’ve already said it earlier, but it was inspiring indeed and the author made a great job to pass on positive values to the readers, in which people have to excel, evolve and progress.
Definitely one of my favorite reads for this year.
July 12, 2018
Five stars!
Could this book be any more beautiful?! The answer is no!
This is a story of finding your self worth in the most unexpected place. Figuring out that you don’t have to HOLD BACK.
Sienna Porter is newly divorced after her husband ‘met someone else’. She’s got a beautiful house that needs some work. And she just happens to find a special someone when the work starts.
What she thought was just lust turned into something so much more. There is an age difference... but I love that saying that the heart wants what the hearts wants.
In this story these two fight and endure a lot of situations that wouldn’t be easy for anyone. But together they grow, the DON’T HOLD BACK. She ‘can’ and he ‘does’. Both these characters will fill your heart with love. Both meant for one another and each fight for that to happen.
Sienna and Jace have a love that will have you flipping the pages to find out how their story ends. And what a beautiful ending to an absolutely beautiful book.
I would highly recommend this book to any romance lover.
~Andrea B~
Reviewer for Everything Marie Book Blog
**I was given an advanced copy of this book by the author/publisher in exchange for an honest review**
Could this book be any more beautiful?! The answer is no!
This is a story of finding your self worth in the most unexpected place. Figuring out that you don’t have to HOLD BACK.
Sienna Porter is newly divorced after her husband ‘met someone else’. She’s got a beautiful house that needs some work. And she just happens to find a special someone when the work starts.
What she thought was just lust turned into something so much more. There is an age difference... but I love that saying that the heart wants what the hearts wants.
In this story these two fight and endure a lot of situations that wouldn’t be easy for anyone. But together they grow, the DON’T HOLD BACK. She ‘can’ and he ‘does’. Both these characters will fill your heart with love. Both meant for one another and each fight for that to happen.
Sienna and Jace have a love that will have you flipping the pages to find out how their story ends. And what a beautiful ending to an absolutely beautiful book.
I would highly recommend this book to any romance lover.
~Andrea B~
Reviewer for Everything Marie Book Blog
**I was given an advanced copy of this book by the author/publisher in exchange for an honest review**
July 13, 2018
I was lucky to have won an ARC of Young Love in a contest,as I was so excited to read Alyson's new book. She knocked it out of the park again with her outstanding ability to develop characters and a storyline the are so deep and relatable. Sienna's character really touched me personally. Seeing her self doubt change to confidence was awe inspiring. Coming from such a verbally abusive relationship, having zero support from those whom you would expect it from, yet able to find herself after all was said and done made me really sit back and think. Jace, that man was just absolutely dream worthy. What we would all do to have a man sacrifice it all for love. His love was deep and palpable. Even the moments when I just wanted to jump in and fight his battles for him!! In the beginning I questioned his motives, not particularly because of how the story was written, but more from personal history. Once it was clear he was a man of his word, he stole my heart!! I struggled during their break but seeing Sienna get her act together solidified to me the importance of finding yourself and being happy with you before committing to a relationship. Can't became Can, self doubt became self appreciation and love became a forever. Blown away! Touched my soul! Life lessons were learned reading this! Thank you so much Alyson for sharing this story with us. It was definitely a light switched on moment in a blackout. A definite must read!!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 23, 2018
**4.5 Blushes**
Sienna Porter is a woman in suspended animation. Unable to move forward I'm her life after she is left broken by the betrayal of a husband that swore to love her always.
Jace Beckett is in much the same position. Betrayed by a mother incapable of living in reality. He is left to do whatever must be done to protect his little brother.
A 38 year old woman. A 23 year old "boy"? Yet Jace is making her feel things Sienna hasn't felt - ever. There's no possible way this could work between them! The scrutiny. The ridicule. The knowing stares from strangers. This palpable thing between then just can't happen. It has no future. Or does it?
Don't get it twisted - Alyson Santos has given us a love story. One where two people test the boundaries of what that word really means. Would you fight with everything in you to keep the one you love or would you let him/her go for the greater good.
That's the question at the center of Young Love. I found the age difference became back story. How Sienna and Jace navigate these waters absolutely killed me. We get the quirky, the funny, the heartbreak, the sexy & the happy in full doses.
The angst! Oh the angst is in full effect in Young Love! At the end of it I was a crying mess. Was the ride worth the fall? If you ask me.....every day of the week and twice on Sunday.
Sienna Porter is a woman in suspended animation. Unable to move forward I'm her life after she is left broken by the betrayal of a husband that swore to love her always.
Jace Beckett is in much the same position. Betrayed by a mother incapable of living in reality. He is left to do whatever must be done to protect his little brother.
A 38 year old woman. A 23 year old "boy"? Yet Jace is making her feel things Sienna hasn't felt - ever. There's no possible way this could work between them! The scrutiny. The ridicule. The knowing stares from strangers. This palpable thing between then just can't happen. It has no future. Or does it?
Don't get it twisted - Alyson Santos has given us a love story. One where two people test the boundaries of what that word really means. Would you fight with everything in you to keep the one you love or would you let him/her go for the greater good.
That's the question at the center of Young Love. I found the age difference became back story. How Sienna and Jace navigate these waters absolutely killed me. We get the quirky, the funny, the heartbreak, the sexy & the happy in full doses.
The angst! Oh the angst is in full effect in Young Love! At the end of it I was a crying mess. Was the ride worth the fall? If you ask me.....every day of the week and twice on Sunday.
July 23, 2018
This is the first book by Alyson I have read and I loved it. This book is one heck of an emotional rollercoaster ride. This is an older woman younger man romance. While Jace maybe 10+ younger than Sienna he is so much wiser in most ways. He has been through so much in his young life. He lives in the now and doesn’t let things hold him back. He doesn’t let societies rules and such dictate his life. He does what he wants. Sienna is a divorced woman in her late 30’s. She has lived her whole life a certain way. Brought down by how other people see her and what they think of her. Jace shows her she doesn’t have to live that way and that she can do what she wants. Jace and Sienna’s relationship faces many challenges and not just their age difference. I can’t say enough about this book. It is a must read for sure. The characters are fantastic and the story makes you feel so much. I look forward to reading more books by Alyson in the future.
July 20, 2018
Alyson does it again. She truly has a way with words. She can portray so much in a book and you don't feel like you're reading it but living it.
Jace Becket is younger than Sienna Porter, but they have this connection.
Sienna Porter I'd scared because she's been hurt by her ex husband and she truly deserves someone to be there for her and love her without judgment !!!
Jace is always the one standing up for those he loves and carrying the weight of the world on his shoulders
Will life, judgment, and others get in the way of happiness? Will they give up or go with the motto
"Don't Give Up"
I definitely recommend this book. It is a standalone. There is so much angst and emotion in this book.
I know this review isnt doing it justice. Its got me all in my feels right now. Releasing July 25, 2018
Jace Becket is younger than Sienna Porter, but they have this connection.
Sienna Porter I'd scared because she's been hurt by her ex husband and she truly deserves someone to be there for her and love her without judgment !!!
Jace is always the one standing up for those he loves and carrying the weight of the world on his shoulders
Will life, judgment, and others get in the way of happiness? Will they give up or go with the motto
"Don't Give Up"
I definitely recommend this book. It is a standalone. There is so much angst and emotion in this book.
I know this review isnt doing it justice. Its got me all in my feels right now. Releasing July 25, 2018
July 16, 2018
5+ Stars
I. Am. Sobbing! What a mess, snot and tears, this book has mangled my heart. I got so much heartache with these two characters, their situations pulled me inside out, there were times my heart was so full of love, then bursting with rage, followed with complete desolation. I think I'm broken.
Sienna is so downtrodden by everyone! Mother, ex-husband, friend... I wanted to hug her and fight her battles for her. I love how she grows into a confident tigress. Jace, well he is just perfect; mature for his age, strong, sexy, selfless and so caring. You can't help but fall in love with him. He has so many talents that make you fall even more.
This is my first book by Alyson Santos and I couldn't get enough. Every word was beautifully heart rending. I highly recommend this book, in fact, I'm going to search Amazon for more from her.
I. Am. Sobbing! What a mess, snot and tears, this book has mangled my heart. I got so much heartache with these two characters, their situations pulled me inside out, there were times my heart was so full of love, then bursting with rage, followed with complete desolation. I think I'm broken.
Sienna is so downtrodden by everyone! Mother, ex-husband, friend... I wanted to hug her and fight her battles for her. I love how she grows into a confident tigress. Jace, well he is just perfect; mature for his age, strong, sexy, selfless and so caring. You can't help but fall in love with him. He has so many talents that make you fall even more.
This is my first book by Alyson Santos and I couldn't get enough. Every word was beautifully heart rending. I highly recommend this book, in fact, I'm going to search Amazon for more from her.
July 13, 2018
I received Young Love by Alyson Santos as an Advanced Reader Copy in exchange for an honest review. I started it last night and stayed up way past my bedtime reading it. I was hooked! Sienna is a 38 year old, recently divorced woman who finds a kindred spirit in Jace...almost 15 years her junior. I don’t want to give too much away, but let me just say that I loved both characters. Jace was playful at times, yet selflessness; his soul seemingly far beyond his 23 years. I also loved the transformation of Sienna, as she finally found her voice and realized that yes, she can! This novel is the second Alyson Santos novel that I read & I loved this one just as much as I loved the first. Young Love releases on July 25th and is definitely a must read!
July 25, 2018
Young Love was a great read but I didn't expect any less from the mind and hands of Alyson Santos.
Sienna,our heroine,at 38 years old she discovers her self-worth and thanks to Jace she finds the courage to be free and live her life to the fullest and definitely leave the cage the society has put her in years before.She finally feels comfotable into her own skin.
Read this book because in its pages you won't only find a love relationship between a 38 years old woman and a much more younger man,but you will appreciate the relatability to these characters and you will feel their story really deeply.
This novel made me think a lot about life,love and happiness and I hope Sienna will forgive me if from now on "Don't Hold Back" is my mantra too.
Copy kindly provided by the Publisher/Author.
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