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The Apple Tree
Meet me in the meadow in twelve years.
Drew Caldwell’s life plan begins to spiral when her best friend, River Mahlon, tells her he won’t be attending college in the fall. The last time her world was shaken up like this was back in fourth grade, when River moved from Hawaii to her sleepy town of Rockwood, Washington.
On the evening of Drew’s eighteenth birthday, River reveals that his spontaneous plan will take him away from her, and for the first time in nearly a decade, she will be left on her own. Before they part, they devise a plan: No matter what, they will meet again in twelve years in the meadow they discovered together, where they will reclaim special objects they have hidden in a rustic barn and wild apple tree.
In college, Drew learns that her dreams about adulthood were not exactly prophetic—boys, school, and friends are nothing like she had imagined. As the years go by, River becomes more and more of a distant, mysterious phantom—until the unexpected happens.
Drew Caldwell thought she knew exactly how her life would play out, but the more that time went on, the more she found that life had a way of taking her by surprise. A story revolving around growth and meaning, The Apple Tree is an emotional, fulfilling journey with the uplifting message to keep moving forward and upward, no matter what unexpected twists and turns alter your course.
Drew Caldwell’s life plan begins to spiral when her best friend, River Mahlon, tells her he won’t be attending college in the fall. The last time her world was shaken up like this was back in fourth grade, when River moved from Hawaii to her sleepy town of Rockwood, Washington.
On the evening of Drew’s eighteenth birthday, River reveals that his spontaneous plan will take him away from her, and for the first time in nearly a decade, she will be left on her own. Before they part, they devise a plan: No matter what, they will meet again in twelve years in the meadow they discovered together, where they will reclaim special objects they have hidden in a rustic barn and wild apple tree.
In college, Drew learns that her dreams about adulthood were not exactly prophetic—boys, school, and friends are nothing like she had imagined. As the years go by, River becomes more and more of a distant, mysterious phantom—until the unexpected happens.
Drew Caldwell thought she knew exactly how her life would play out, but the more that time went on, the more she found that life had a way of taking her by surprise. A story revolving around growth and meaning, The Apple Tree is an emotional, fulfilling journey with the uplifting message to keep moving forward and upward, no matter what unexpected twists and turns alter your course.
- GenresRomance
339 pages, Kindle Edition
Published February 2, 2019
1600 people are currently reading
424 people want to read
About the author
Kayla Rose
6 books38 followersI wrote some books in my twenties. I hope you like them. My website is kaylarosebooks.wordpress.com.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 175 reviews
June 25, 2020
“I love you, Drew.” He let the breeze carry my hair out of his hand, through his fingers. “Things don’t have to be complex. I don’t want to leave you, ever.” “I don’t want to leave you, either.” “I want you to be mine.” “I want that, too.”
Drew and River are best friends since elementary school but they are secretly in love with each other. River is on the mind of Drew for as long a she can remember, the moment she lays eyes on him, her world is torn upside down. River like the smell of spring, the anticipation of summer and the beauty in pain..He is evetything to her and more, she feels incompete without having him by her side. The two have made a impact to travel to the Apple tree where their memories become on and they can reminisnice about what was and what has come to be. Although the two move on from teenagers to young adults, they are connected in every part of thier life. Drew is not able to let go of the thought of him, despite her moving on with her life whether it is in a romantic sense or not.
The letters that bind them together is the glue that keeps their love strong and enduring. Teenage angst, passion and desire are are all what is used to describe this gem of a book.
Teenage angst
I never yearned so much about my childhood after reading this. All the memories I had of high school kept flowing back reading this... It was like I was taken back to the days when I did not worry so much about finances, starting a career and how to manage on my own. I knew these characters, they were my friends, associates and collegues.
Passion and Desire
This book was so full of romance that it was hard not to get any butterflies reading it. I always been a hopeless romantic, this book stirred my heart strings like no other book. I love how romantic yet delicate this book was, it was not rauncy or overdramtic like some other romantic novels. The author took her time describing this characters personalities and flaws. It was very romantic and thereaputic to read through the chapters.
This is by far the best romantic and favorite book I read this year.. It has exceeded every expectation and have left me wanting more and more of these characters. I truly did not want to let them go after I finished this book.
Do yourself a favor.. Read it and read it NOW!
Drew and River are best friends since elementary school but they are secretly in love with each other. River is on the mind of Drew for as long a she can remember, the moment she lays eyes on him, her world is torn upside down. River like the smell of spring, the anticipation of summer and the beauty in pain..He is evetything to her and more, she feels incompete without having him by her side. The two have made a impact to travel to the Apple tree where their memories become on and they can reminisnice about what was and what has come to be. Although the two move on from teenagers to young adults, they are connected in every part of thier life. Drew is not able to let go of the thought of him, despite her moving on with her life whether it is in a romantic sense or not.
The letters that bind them together is the glue that keeps their love strong and enduring. Teenage angst, passion and desire are are all what is used to describe this gem of a book.
Teenage angst
I never yearned so much about my childhood after reading this. All the memories I had of high school kept flowing back reading this... It was like I was taken back to the days when I did not worry so much about finances, starting a career and how to manage on my own. I knew these characters, they were my friends, associates and collegues.
Passion and Desire
This book was so full of romance that it was hard not to get any butterflies reading it. I always been a hopeless romantic, this book stirred my heart strings like no other book. I love how romantic yet delicate this book was, it was not rauncy or overdramtic like some other romantic novels. The author took her time describing this characters personalities and flaws. It was very romantic and thereaputic to read through the chapters.
This is by far the best romantic and favorite book I read this year.. It has exceeded every expectation and have left me wanting more and more of these characters. I truly did not want to let them go after I finished this book.
Do yourself a favor.. Read it and read it NOW!
Want to read
February 6, 2019🎁 FREE on Amazon today (2/6/2019)! 🎁
Blurb:
Meet me in the meadow in twelve years.
Drew Caldwell’s life plan begins to spiral when her best friend, River Mahlon, tells her he won’t be attending college in the fall. The last time her world was shaken up like this was back in fourth grade, when River moved from Hawaii to her sleepy town of Rockwood, Washington.
On the evening of Drew’s eighteenth birthday, River reveals that his spontaneous plan will take him away from her, and for the first time in nearly a decade, she will be left on her own. Before they part, they devise a plan: No matter what, they will meet again in twelve years in the meadow they discovered together, where they will reclaim special objects they have hidden in a rustic barn and wild apple tree.
In college, Drew learns that her dreams about adulthood were not exactly prophetic—boys, school, and friends are nothing like she had imagined. As the years go by, River becomes more and more of a distant, mysterious phantom—until the unexpected happens.
Drew Caldwell thought she knew exactly how her life would play out, but the more that time went on, the more she found that life had a way of taking her by surprise. A story revolving around growth and meaning, The Apple Tree is an emotional, fulfilling journey with the uplifting message to keep moving forward and upward, no matter what unexpected twists and turns alter your course.
Blurb:
Meet me in the meadow in twelve years.
Drew Caldwell’s life plan begins to spiral when her best friend, River Mahlon, tells her he won’t be attending college in the fall. The last time her world was shaken up like this was back in fourth grade, when River moved from Hawaii to her sleepy town of Rockwood, Washington.
On the evening of Drew’s eighteenth birthday, River reveals that his spontaneous plan will take him away from her, and for the first time in nearly a decade, she will be left on her own. Before they part, they devise a plan: No matter what, they will meet again in twelve years in the meadow they discovered together, where they will reclaim special objects they have hidden in a rustic barn and wild apple tree.
In college, Drew learns that her dreams about adulthood were not exactly prophetic—boys, school, and friends are nothing like she had imagined. As the years go by, River becomes more and more of a distant, mysterious phantom—until the unexpected happens.
Drew Caldwell thought she knew exactly how her life would play out, but the more that time went on, the more she found that life had a way of taking her by surprise. A story revolving around growth and meaning, The Apple Tree is an emotional, fulfilling journey with the uplifting message to keep moving forward and upward, no matter what unexpected twists and turns alter your course.
October 9, 2019
3.5. I didnt love it but didnt hate it. It had its moments where it was slow and others where i was invested in it. It is a coming of age, finding yourself kind of book. I really enjoyed some parts and it did make me feel sad and happy. But it wasnt anything groundbreaking or that i loved to pieces. It was an enjoyable read but i did skim a little at the end. The cover is gorgeous though but it i do wish that the story couldve kept me invested the whole way through and that i didnt have to skim a few times.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
May 20, 2019
The best book I've read in a very long time.
I read a lot of books and rarely write reviews, but this book really deserves 5 stars. The romance is otherworldly, the kind that touches your soul. I cannot believe this is her 1st book. I am a forever fan and can't wait for her next book.
I read a lot of books and rarely write reviews, but this book really deserves 5 stars. The romance is otherworldly, the kind that touches your soul. I cannot believe this is her 1st book. I am a forever fan and can't wait for her next book.
June 20, 2019
Beautiful story about love and interesting events in love and death
River and Riley find each other in elementary school and never want to be apart. The characters have been described in a manner that keeps the reader wanting more about them. Love is deep and never ending. A must read.
River and Riley find each other in elementary school and never want to be apart. The characters have been described in a manner that keeps the reader wanting more about them. Love is deep and never ending. A must read.
May 21, 2019
Awesome book
The Apple Tree is one of the best books I've ever read! It had me laughing, it had me crying. It was all around a great read. couldn't put it down. Thank you Kayla Rose for writing such a good book! I highly recommend The Apple Tree!
The Apple Tree is one of the best books I've ever read! It had me laughing, it had me crying. It was all around a great read. couldn't put it down. Thank you Kayla Rose for writing such a good book! I highly recommend The Apple Tree!
April 22, 2020
Tears
I could not put this book down. While reading I would say "can't you see he loves you. Toward the end of the book I was in tears no I was crying. Read this beautiful book.
I can read and feel your heart went into this book.
Please write a second part. Connie
I could not put this book down. While reading I would say "can't you see he loves you. Toward the end of the book I was in tears no I was crying. Read this beautiful book.
I can read and feel your heart went into this book.
Please write a second part. Connie
May 6, 2019
I loved this book!
I wasn't sure what to expect from the title. I was very pleasantly surprised! Kayla has become my new favorite author.
I wasn't sure what to expect from the title. I was very pleasantly surprised! Kayla has become my new favorite author.
May 7, 2019
Beautiful story
Such a sweet story. I loved the relationship between Drew and River. Well written and touching. Life goes on and we must live it.
Such a sweet story. I loved the relationship between Drew and River. Well written and touching. Life goes on and we must live it.
May 10, 2019
Wonderful
This book has so many ups and downs. Emotions came then changed so fast it left you exhausted when it was over. This book was the best I have read in a long time.
This book has so many ups and downs. Emotions came then changed so fast it left you exhausted when it was over. This book was the best I have read in a long time.
May 22, 2019
Gave me chills
This was a nice sweet book that made me smile. I hope there will be a follow up book. Loved it!
This was a nice sweet book that made me smile. I hope there will be a follow up book. Loved it!
May 26, 2019
5 stars
Great book...highly recommend. It made me smile and cry and reaffirms the fact that you should live each day to the fullest.
Great book...highly recommend. It made me smile and cry and reaffirms the fact that you should live each day to the fullest.
May 28, 2019
Beautiful
This gentle story of love and growth and life is superb. The many layers of love are often untold. A definite must read
This gentle story of love and growth and life is superb. The many layers of love are often untold. A definite must read
January 18, 2024
Talk about a wholesome story! I love the symbolism of the Apple Tree and the role that it plays from start to finish. The first chapter hooks you immediately and you do not get resolution until the final chapter of the book! This is one of the fastest stories I’ve ever read, it was engaging from start to finish.
I absolutely adored Drew, the main character. The author did an incredible job creating such a deep character, I felt like I really knew Drew AND could also see her growth as a person throughout the story.
A few unexpected plot twists that make the story that much better!
Definitely worth a read!
I absolutely adored Drew, the main character. The author did an incredible job creating such a deep character, I felt like I really knew Drew AND could also see her growth as a person throughout the story.
A few unexpected plot twists that make the story that much better!
Definitely worth a read!
February 12, 2025
DNF. I bought this book because of the pretty artwork on the cover and the promising storyline. I tried to get into it - forced myself to read the first seven chapters. I eventually gave up, realizing it was a waste of my time. While the premise sounded sweet and romantic, I found The Apple Tree to be pretty boring. You can tell it's written by an amateur. The story feels shallow and drags along, the characters are uninteresting and lack depth, and the dialogue is clunky and kind of cringe. Maybe the story gets better further along in the book, but I don't have the patience to find out.
May 26, 2020
3.5 maybe 4? I don’t know, I enjoyed it. It feels like a story I’ve read before or movie I’ve watched before. Sort of predictable storyline, a few things I would change, but overall I liked it.
April 26, 2022
This was a step above the average romance. I like the characters.
February 23, 2022
This was on a blog for fun books to read for Valentine’s Day and I read it on my kindle at my parent’s house. It was a coming of age story that was really sweet but the ending was most definitely not what I need at this point in my life.
June 14, 2020
GreAt Reaf
This was one of the best books I have read in a while. Believable with a surprise that had me crying and an ending that have me hope.
This was one of the best books I have read in a while. Believable with a surprise that had me crying and an ending that have me hope.
April 9, 2020
Sweet book about two teenagers, River and Drew, and their friendship,about going their separate ways, then coming back together again. It’s about living life. I thought the writing was a bit sluggish at times, but enjoyed it.
May 21, 2020
Delightful
I totally enjoyed the story. The characters, the time frame, the experiences were all poignant and beautiful. It made me laugh, it made me cry, it made me weep, made me whole. Beautiful writing about coming of age, about loving and not realizing it, about how beautiful and how painful it can be at times. I loved every page!
I totally enjoyed the story. The characters, the time frame, the experiences were all poignant and beautiful. It made me laugh, it made me cry, it made me weep, made me whole. Beautiful writing about coming of age, about loving and not realizing it, about how beautiful and how painful it can be at times. I loved every page!
March 19, 2020
I did like this book. It was very sweet and the characters were "heartfelt". It did seem a bit over embellished in "sweetness" and not always believable. The author did a great job in portraying her message that "we are more than dust while we are here" Altho' the read was not "compelling", it was a decent story with a lot of feeling and compassion developed through the characters. I think this was the author's first book and for that I would say it was very well done !
I would definitely consider reading another book written by her.
I would definitely consider reading another book written by her.
May 27, 2019
For a first novel, this story was good. However, it was predictable and I found myself skimming the majority of it. Once River and Drew kept meeting, I knew they were going to get married and from the first scene, it was obvious that she was returning to the meadow alone. I wanted to love this book- the cover it beautiful, it's interesting, but it straddles the line between YA and New Adult and didn't feel like either. It felt like it needed to be edited and refined before putting it out there.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
September 4, 2019
Love and sorrow
This book is about a girl, Drew, and a boy, River. They met in the 4th grade when his family moved from Hawaii. They soon become good friends and he was around her family so much that he became a part of her family.
After graduating from high school Drew went to nursing school and River left to explore the world.
River loved Drew but never told her. Drew loved River but didn't realize it.
Read this book to learn about their budding romance and also the sorrow but bitter sweetness in the end.
This book is about a girl, Drew, and a boy, River. They met in the 4th grade when his family moved from Hawaii. They soon become good friends and he was around her family so much that he became a part of her family.
After graduating from high school Drew went to nursing school and River left to explore the world.
River loved Drew but never told her. Drew loved River but didn't realize it.
Read this book to learn about their budding romance and also the sorrow but bitter sweetness in the end.
June 7, 2019
Wonderful!
One of the best books I've read recently. The characters are full of depth, it takes you along their journey and history without being maudlin, adding not and fun along the way. The way the characters developed from children to adulthood was so well.portrayed. I will be keeping this.for a while to re-read. Great story!
One of the best books I've read recently. The characters are full of depth, it takes you along their journey and history without being maudlin, adding not and fun along the way. The way the characters developed from children to adulthood was so well.portrayed. I will be keeping this.for a while to re-read. Great story!
April 14, 2020
This is such an heart-wrenching book about love. This book portrayed the themes of patience and hope. Throughout the story, I sympathized with the characters and hoped they'd meet up again. The cruel and sad ending portrayed the message that even though it's hard to move on, sometimes the best thing to do is to move on and continue living knowing your loved one is still with you.
February 9, 2019
Beautiful
I can't say enough great things about this book. I loved it from the beginning to the very end. It was a clean, sweet, pure love story. I haven't cried like that reading a story in a long time. Amazing job!!! I could read this again.
I can't say enough great things about this book. I loved it from the beginning to the very end. It was a clean, sweet, pure love story. I haven't cried like that reading a story in a long time. Amazing job!!! I could read this again.
June 10, 2019
Love comes around in full circle
Absolutely the best reading I have had in a long time. The sweetness and innocence of the story is heart warming.
Absolutely the best reading I have had in a long time. The sweetness and innocence of the story is heart warming.
July 9, 2019
Pure enjoyment
If you want a book that moves you this is a book for you. Extremely well written and I enjoyed it all.
If you want a book that moves you this is a book for you. Extremely well written and I enjoyed it all.
December 23, 2019
Absolutely amazing book! It definitely has some twist in it and will make you look at life with fresh eyes. To say much more would spoil the book, but I would highly recommend reading this book!
Displaying 1 - 30 of 175 reviews