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A Time Apart

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They say, in time, true love comes to us all. But in what time, you just can never be sure.

It was the vacation from Hell. Dylan Foster was a middle-class Atlanta suburbanite vacationing with his family on Florida’s scenic Gulf Coast for a week. Only thing was, since they’d been there, they’d been trapped inside their beach house for four solid days by monsoon-like weather. And after four days in close quarters, Dylan needed to get out, if for nothing else, to get a coffee and donuts. For the truth was, despite all appearances, Dylan’s marriage to his wife Gina was slowly falling apart, as an extramarital affair, years of indifference and inability to compromise slowly ate away at the foundation. Being shut in with each other in such a claustrophobic situation only reminded them of the charade they were living. It was so bad he was willing to strike out in the midst of a drenching deluge to escape the discomfort.

But this storm was no ordinary storm, and its violent intensity soon had him regretting his decision. After an almost apocalyptic crash of lightning sent a mysterious jolt of energy coursing through him, he quickly sought shelter at the first place he came to, a run-down souvenir store on a strangely unfamiliar stretch of the beach. If that wasn’t peculiar enough, what he found really made him scratch his head. Like a VW microbus in the parking lot straight out of Woodstock. Or the fact that the inventory inside looked like it hadn’t been updated since Nixon was president. Even the beautiful young lady who owned the place looked like she’d just stepped off the screen of a campy 70’s sitcom.

But any port in a storm, right? And the young lady, Sadie had hot coffee and dry clothes, not to mention an infectious personality that made riding out the storm with her a lot quite pleasant. But as the afternoon fades to evening and the storm rages on, two become comfortable and more at ease. An inevitable attraction begins to develop between two very lonely people. And before the night is over, choices will be made that will ripple across both time and space with far-reaching consequences.

A Time Apart isn’t a sci-fi story. It’s a love story, first and foremost, with just the right twist of sci-fi to flavor it perfectly. Not too much and just enough to enjoy. Pop a top on one today and taste for yourself.

141 pages, Kindle Edition

Published September 13, 2018

2 people are currently reading
11 people want to read

About the author

J. Morgan Woodall

22 books106 followers
J. Morgan Woodall is an author of adult sci-fi, fantasy and paranormal romance. To date, he has published five full-length novels, three novellas and several short stories, including two series. His subject matter ranges from vampires and demons to time and space travel to holiday erotica. His works include “A Time Apart,” “Like A Fox on the Run,” “Southern Born, Southern Bled,” “The Haints of Hickory Holler,” and his most successful release to date, “Li’l Red.”

J. M. resides in the Birmingham, Alabama area. When not writing, he enjoys traveling, music, Auburn Tiger and New Orleans Saints football, the beach, movies, and, of course, reading. He reads true crime, military history, men’s adventure, dieselpunk and science fiction. His favorite writers are Wilbur Smith, Larry McMurtry and Robert R. McCammon. An avid history fan and nostalgia geek, he enjoys collecting conversation pieces from bygone eras and has a cookie jar collection that numbers well over one hundred.

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5 stars
25 (83%)
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3 (10%)
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2 (6%)
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Displaying 1 - 23 of 23 reviews
1,149 reviews7 followers
November 27, 2018
This was my first J. Morgan Woodall book and what a fun introduction. Dylan is in an unhappy marriage. He has his wife and stepkids on vacation and after spending 4 days cooped up in the house he sets off to go any where. He stops to get out of the storm and meets Sadie at a run down tourist shop. That stormy day will change their lives forever.

I felt so bad for Dylan knowing that his wife was cheating on him and raising her ungrateful children. I wanted him to get his chance at happy.

This was such a fun romance with a twist. The bulk of the story took place on just one stormy day but a lot was packed into those hours. Sadie was such a fun character you couldn't help but want to hang out with her. I am looking forward to checking out more by this author.
Profile Image for Stephanie.
198 reviews2 followers
May 31, 2019
I finished this book last night and it left me in tears. I didn't want to do a review right away because this book touched my heart so much. I wanted to think about how to tell you that this book is a book you MUST read. This book will pull at your heart, make you cry, make you laugh and possibly feel nostalgic. Sometimes in life you meet someone who you just connect with. The time you spend together may be hours or months or years. However long the time you spend together, this person has such an impact on your soul. The time you have together is a gift. This book reminded me so much of a special gift I was given many years ago. A gift to make me see the good in myself and that I am worthy of something special. So, I am asking that you please read this book. You won't be disappointed.
Profile Image for Raven Canely.
8 reviews5 followers
October 31, 2018
This would be my first book of J.Morgan Woodall's and I am very pleased that it is. I must say that it does start off as a heart-wrenching tale of a broken family. Dylan Foster finds the need to escape his life for a brief moment and is brought into the word of Sadie. I don't want to go further into details, as it could give away some of the story. I will say that it does have a mighty big twist at the end.
I thoroughly enjoyed every moment that the story had to offer and would recommend it to all of you. If you haven't read the works of J. Morgan Woodall, this would be the book to start with. I'm hooked.
Profile Image for Natalie Johnson.
283 reviews5 followers
September 30, 2019
The greatest love. One that is soul deep and reaches across space and time. This is the type of love that Dylan and Sadie had. A split second decision separating them forever except in their memories.

There are a few stories that we read that affects us on a deep level and this is one of those for me. The theory of quantum mechanics and alternate-parallel universes has fascinated me. I think this story shows that the consequences of our actions, in a split second, can change everything. I highly recommend this book. It provides you with a steaminess that you will love, the sorrow of loss and it provides you with hope for the future. The perfect story.


Profile Image for Patti.
1,502 reviews13 followers
October 26, 2018
Overall rating: 4.8

A heart wrenching depiction of opportunity knocking just once. This storyline left me pondering all kinds of “what if’s”. The portrayal of one of the main characters humdrum existence was so very spot on and truly felt realistic. Couple that with a hot, steamy fantasy come to life and you have a page turner worthy of more than one read through. Definitely worth recommending to any reader looking for a mature content read that is tastefully done. All my reviews are always voluntarily written.
Profile Image for Tania Fitzgerald.
103 reviews1 follower
September 25, 2018
A totally different direction for this writer, and he does it brilliantly.
It’s a story that leaves you entranced, it’s poignant, sweet, and yes may even make you cry.
The characters are wonderful, the twist is great, but heartbreaking when you realise it. The scenes between the two main characters are smoulderingly sexy. When the book ends you want more, you know there could be more.
Well written and a wonderful read by this terrific author.
4 reviews
April 13, 2022
AN ABSOLUTE MUST READ
♡♡♡♡♡

This book is an absolute must read.

I absolutely love the story between Sadie and Dylan.
They met by chance one stormy night, and fell in love.
This story is beautifully heart touching.
I laughed, I cried and I longed for more.

This is a beautiful romance story.
An Amazing book written by an Amazing Author.

If I could give this story more than five stars I would!!!
Profile Image for Katrina.
75 reviews8 followers
September 20, 2018
I loved this story. All the emotions are there. Even a steamy scene you won’t forget.
This story touches everyone’s life in some way. Whether it be angst, the excitement of a first encounter, finding a moment of happiness or consequences of choices we make, this story has it all.
Profile Image for Tanis Owen.
Author 7 books7 followers
September 7, 2019
I loved this book, but it was so sad. I almost know how he feels, life wise, but there are no do overs. I wish he would've stayed too, but I'll give the author credit that it is better and more interesting this way. Awesome story 💜
2,617 reviews25 followers
October 26, 2018
to say this was a strange book! he is on a vacation and not having fun. than he goes for a drive and meets her. only something is just not right. you have to find out what happens.
Profile Image for Lori Hammons.
2,824 reviews28 followers
November 1, 2018
This story is incredible! The best part is Ed telling Dylan Sadie's story. It's a mind blower, and an excellent read.
Profile Image for Mabel Mumbles.
277 reviews2 followers
February 11, 2019
I loved the idea for the story, and the way the characters developed, I have to admit I struggled with Sadies turns of phrases, but enjoyed the story, a pleasant read. With a nice message.
33 reviews1 follower
October 17, 2018
A poignant love story

I wasn't sure what to expect from this book when I sat down to read it. It's not my usual genre and I admit to being a little apprehensive. Once I started, I couldn't put it down...and then I found myself dragging it out because I didn't want it to end. I went through a gamut of emotions. I felt sad and frustrated for Dylans relationship with his wife and step kids. I really just wanted him to be happy. When Sadie came in and did that, my heart soared! By the end of the book, I was shocked and wrung out emotionally. I cried for all of them and a little bit for myself because I was at the end. I would love to see a sequel and maybe even a HEA for this couple. I can't wait to read my next J Morgan Woodall book....hopefully I will have all the feels with that one too!
41 reviews1 follower
July 22, 2019
My new all time favorite

I've read a few of J Morgan Woodalls books, but this novella really blew me away. I'm having a difficult time writing this review, because I'm all emotion right now. The way his mind works, the story, the highest level of emotion are all good reasons to one click. Outside of that, one click because this novella will take you on quite a ride, and have you believing in the impossible. I know I'll always have this book close by for those times I need help believing.
31 reviews4 followers
January 5, 2022
Original review posted to amazon on 7/4/19.
OMG! I'm so emotional right now. This love story is one I can't help but wish truly exists. In my own life I've had the bad unfulfilling marriage this story talks about. I only wish that meeting someone like Dylan is in my future. Perfect uninhibited love. I won't spoil the story but just know when you read this story you'll be crying just like I am. I love J Morgan's writing like nothing I've read in a very long time. Please keep the stories coming J!!
203 reviews7 followers
September 13, 2018
A differently ever after

This book seemed to capture real life. Discontent with what he has, contemplating life, wondering why, fleeting moment of true happiness, sadness, surprise and a totally unexpected ending. Although I suppose the ending was not so unexpected, life is most certainly not what is expected.
Profile Image for Staci Black.
556 reviews4 followers
September 21, 2018
Bittersweet romance with very heated scenes. 

We all have those moments in life. Things just get too crowded and overwelming. Taking a moment to ourselves to clear the mind. What if we stepped right into the storm? What magic could happen? Would it forever change our life? Who would we be after such a moment?
Profile Image for Debbie Alvarado .
196 reviews3 followers
September 6, 2019
Loved this !

I kinda went into this one blind. I only read a short portion of the blurb, then charged into it.
I totally loved it! I wasn’t aware as I said of all that would be going on. However sometimes that’s best!
I can say I devoured this book in one sitting. It’s a real page turner! Definitely put it on your list!
Profile Image for Marguerite Robinson.
572 reviews3 followers
September 13, 2019
This book was truly amazing. My emotions were all over the place, it touched apart of me and brought the pain of my past to light. Many tears shed but was also a pure cleansing of my soul. Time Apart is definetly a must read. Thank you for amazing writing.
Profile Image for Kat.
76 reviews
October 5, 2019
Beautiful!!!

I loved this book!!! Sexy and erotic, full of emotion with a dabble of fantasy. Beautifully written!!! Would love to read about meeting her on a sunny day dancing across the sandbar.
Profile Image for Joy Boutwell.
1,607 reviews16 followers
June 27, 2019
This is an amazing book with an intriguing story. Dylan's relationship and the events that take place captivates you as you read, but the twist at the end will blow your mind.
Displaying 1 - 23 of 23 reviews

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