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Wardham #1
What Once Was Perfect
Teacher, carpenter, and his small town’s favourite son, Kyle Nixon has a pretty sweet life. But he’s never forgiven himself for breaking Laney Calhoun's heart a decade earlier when she was accepted into medical school. So when she returns to Wardham for Christmas, he goes over to Evening Lane Farm to see her. Just to say hi, maybe. And maybe to deal with some of their complicated history.
Laney loves everything about her new life in Chicago. Everything except for the weird feeling she gets when she thinks about her high school sweetheart. So when Kyle turns up on her mother’s doorstep, she does her best to ignore the way he makes her feel. But he’s just down the road, and they keep bumping into each other. Then there’s the small matter that he still takes her breath away, still makes her laugh, and still sees all of her secret desires. And he seems intent on proving to her that he’s a different kind of man now.
But is a week of holidays enough time to for a second chance at love?
Laney loves everything about her new life in Chicago. Everything except for the weird feeling she gets when she thinks about her high school sweetheart. So when Kyle turns up on her mother’s doorstep, she does her best to ignore the way he makes her feel. But he’s just down the road, and they keep bumping into each other. Then there’s the small matter that he still takes her breath away, still makes her laugh, and still sees all of her secret desires. And he seems intent on proving to her that he’s a different kind of man now.
But is a week of holidays enough time to for a second chance at love?
166 pages, Kindle Edition
First published June 15, 2013
1028 people are currently reading
3520 people want to read
About the author
Zoe York
125 books1,344 followersNew York Times and USA Today bestselling author Zoe York is a busy working mom of two young boys, wife to a very understanding soldier, and creator of modern, sexy, small town contemporary romances.
She lives in London, Ontario and is currently chugging Americanos, wiping sticky fingers, and dreaming of heroes in and out of uniform.
She lives in London, Ontario and is currently chugging Americanos, wiping sticky fingers, and dreaming of heroes in and out of uniform.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 321 reviews
March 3, 2016
This book is really called "Carmen reads something that she has no idea how it got on her Kindle or when." Seriously, I have no idea how this got on there.
ANYWAY. This book is so full of feelings. If you are one of those readers who loves having their heart stomped into a bloody pulp underneath an author's heel, this is for you.
Almost everyone has one: THE EX. Not just any ex, but The Ex who you don't know what you would do if you saw him/her again. Cry? Fall into bed with him? Not say anything, looking at the ground with a beet-red face? You pray that you never see him again, because if you saw him again your heart might explode. You know. THE EX. The one you still have feelings for on some level, the one ex you never fully got over.
What happens when that person comes back into your life?
Laney hasn't allowed herself to have a real relationship in 12 years, ever since her one true love, Kyle, dumped her in college. She has sex-only relationships, but has never allowed anyone in her heart. He fucked her up, and he fucked her up but GOOD. She has a hard time even saying the word "boyfriend."
Now, home in Canada for Christmas, she has to face Kyle, who lives just down the road. He's still hot for her, she's still hot for him. That's typical with THE EX. You know sex with him would be SO GOOD.
But I don't have to tell you, having sex with your ex (not just any ex, mind you, THE EX) is a really, really bad idea and this insanely bad idea leads to all sorts of things. Tearful conversations, people's hearts being ripped out, old hurts, new hurts, the book is fucking brutal.
I know this looks like a happy little Christmas story, or something, but don't be fooled by the sweet cover.
I have NO IDEA how Laney holds it together for most of the book. I would NOT be able to handle having sex with THE EX. I would just be sobbing, and having sex with him knowing it's just a weekend fling (after once being Boyfriend) would just KILL ME. At one point he gives her, as a present, his old swim team T-shirt that she liked to sleep in.
Oh, low blow, man. I mean, are you TRYING to tear her heart out and feed it to her for breakfast? I mean, who the fuck would think this is a good idea?!!?!?! I would have started bawling. But then again, I would never allow myself to have sex with THE EX. I'm not that stupid. Laney is very stupid to open up this can of worms again, especially considering that he did a real number on her and basically fucked-up any chance at her having a normal relationship in the last 12 years.
How's the sex, Carmen?
The sex is good and well-described but I couldn't enjoy any of it because I was too anxious about the characters and too emotionally distraught.
Tl;dr - Anyway, if you want a book that's going to slam you into the ground with feelings and that's what you're looking for in a romance, this is a perfect little Christmas novel for you. It's all shades of fucked-up, the kind of fucked-up that can only be reached by decided to start becoming physically and romantically involved with THE EX again.
I don't know if my heart can take another book like this, OMG. Too anxiety-producing. Hopefully my other "what's in the jungles of Carmen's Kindle" discoveries will be a little less emotionally devastating.
THREE REAL STARS, FOUR ROMANCE STARS
P.S. Although this is self-published, it is very smooth. No spelling or grammatical errors that I could see.
ANYWAY. This book is so full of feelings. If you are one of those readers who loves having their heart stomped into a bloody pulp underneath an author's heel, this is for you.
Almost everyone has one: THE EX. Not just any ex, but The Ex who you don't know what you would do if you saw him/her again. Cry? Fall into bed with him? Not say anything, looking at the ground with a beet-red face? You pray that you never see him again, because if you saw him again your heart might explode. You know. THE EX. The one you still have feelings for on some level, the one ex you never fully got over.
What happens when that person comes back into your life?
Laney hasn't allowed herself to have a real relationship in 12 years, ever since her one true love, Kyle, dumped her in college. She has sex-only relationships, but has never allowed anyone in her heart. He fucked her up, and he fucked her up but GOOD. She has a hard time even saying the word "boyfriend."
Now, home in Canada for Christmas, she has to face Kyle, who lives just down the road. He's still hot for her, she's still hot for him. That's typical with THE EX. You know sex with him would be SO GOOD.
But I don't have to tell you, having sex with your ex (not just any ex, mind you, THE EX) is a really, really bad idea and this insanely bad idea leads to all sorts of things. Tearful conversations, people's hearts being ripped out, old hurts, new hurts, the book is fucking brutal.
I know this looks like a happy little Christmas story, or something, but don't be fooled by the sweet cover.
I have NO IDEA how Laney holds it together for most of the book. I would NOT be able to handle having sex with THE EX. I would just be sobbing, and having sex with him knowing it's just a weekend fling (after once being Boyfriend) would just KILL ME. At one point he gives her, as a present, his old swim team T-shirt that she liked to sleep in.
Oh, low blow, man. I mean, are you TRYING to tear her heart out and feed it to her for breakfast? I mean, who the fuck would think this is a good idea?!!?!?! I would have started bawling. But then again, I would never allow myself to have sex with THE EX. I'm not that stupid. Laney is very stupid to open up this can of worms again, especially considering that he did a real number on her and basically fucked-up any chance at her having a normal relationship in the last 12 years.
How's the sex, Carmen?
The sex is good and well-described but I couldn't enjoy any of it because I was too anxious about the characters and too emotionally distraught.
Tl;dr - Anyway, if you want a book that's going to slam you into the ground with feelings and that's what you're looking for in a romance, this is a perfect little Christmas novel for you. It's all shades of fucked-up, the kind of fucked-up that can only be reached by decided to start becoming physically and romantically involved with THE EX again.
I don't know if my heart can take another book like this, OMG. Too anxiety-producing. Hopefully my other "what's in the jungles of Carmen's Kindle" discoveries will be a little less emotionally devastating.
THREE REAL STARS, FOUR ROMANCE STARS
P.S. Although this is self-published, it is very smooth. No spelling or grammatical errors that I could see.
Want to read
April 7, 2015
FREE on Amazon US today (3/10/2015)
BLURB:
She shuttered her heart and walked away...
Heading home always stirs up mixed emotions for Laney Calhoun. Twelve years ago she left for graduate school, broken-hearted. She's found professional success, but positive personal relationships have proved elusive. Running into her ex-boyfriend fans flames she thought long extinguished, and causes a renewed interest in love. Not with Kyle, of course. Never again. But as sparks fly and items of clothing disappear, she scrambles to keep her emotions in check.
...Now he has a second chance to get it right.
Kyle Nixon let Laney slip away once. Their chemistry together is undeniable, but steamy sex is not enough to convince her to let him back into her heart. Even if she did trust him again, her career as a paediatric surgeon is five hundred kilometers away from the hometown that he loves, and the life he once chose over her.
Come home to Wardham. Come home to love.
http://www.amazon.com/What-Once-Was-P...
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July 23, 2016
3.5 stars.
I'm a freebie whore so I thought I'd grab this one as a trial fluffy filler in between my heavier reads. I honestly thought I'd read enough just to sample it before discarding and moving onto my next fluffy filler sample, but I guess I didn't stop reading till the end and actually enjoyed myself.
From looking at the feel-good cover and blurb received via Amazon Australia, I admittedly expected a chick-lit worthy, fluffy bubble of wholesomeness where the sex scenes are faded to black. I am happy to report that this was not the case with this story and I was excitedly surprised to get me some sexy nookie for my greedy mind. It's probably also the reason why I kept reading this book, but I digress.
Told in dual third person POV, there were times when I felt that the writing wasn't very clear on whether to be angsty or lighthearted thus, confusing the pace of some scenes at crucial times. Other than that; it was still a pretty easy, light, contemporary 2nd chance love story with some surprisingly hot smut. Standalone story and book #1 in a continuing series with HEA.
I'm a freebie whore so I thought I'd grab this one as a trial fluffy filler in between my heavier reads. I honestly thought I'd read enough just to sample it before discarding and moving onto my next fluffy filler sample, but I guess I didn't stop reading till the end and actually enjoyed myself.
From looking at the feel-good cover and blurb received via Amazon Australia, I admittedly expected a chick-lit worthy, fluffy bubble of wholesomeness where the sex scenes are faded to black. I am happy to report that this was not the case with this story and I was excitedly surprised to get me some sexy nookie for my greedy mind. It's probably also the reason why I kept reading this book, but I digress.
Told in dual third person POV, there were times when I felt that the writing wasn't very clear on whether to be angsty or lighthearted thus, confusing the pace of some scenes at crucial times. Other than that; it was still a pretty easy, light, contemporary 2nd chance love story with some surprisingly hot smut. Standalone story and book #1 in a continuing series with HEA.
Want to read
June 5, 2020🎁 FREE on Amazon today (5/24/2019)! 🎁
June 11, 2013
What Once Was Perfect
by Zoe York
Genre: Adult, Romance
The author gave an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
"This could be our every night. This could be our forever."
"This is perfect, I'd like to stay in this moment forever."
"It's not such a big risk when you know it's the real deal."
H: Kyle was determined to get the girl of his dreams back, for them to share forever. He didnt let his past mistake ruin their future.
h: Laney was sure of herself but guarded. She doesnt want to get hurt again but she over came her hang ups to get her happily ever after.
There are oodles and oodles of hot, sexy, steamy scenes in this book. You'll surely have your fix!
This is a short read but I wish the transition between their fears and doubts to moving on and conquering their uncertainty should've been smoother like a defining moment (or something), that they were better together than apart.
An awesome debut by Zoe York!
by Zoe York
Genre: Adult, Romance
The author gave an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
"This could be our every night. This could be our forever."
"This is perfect, I'd like to stay in this moment forever."
"It's not such a big risk when you know it's the real deal."
H: Kyle was determined to get the girl of his dreams back, for them to share forever. He didnt let his past mistake ruin their future.
h: Laney was sure of herself but guarded. She doesnt want to get hurt again but she over came her hang ups to get her happily ever after.
There are oodles and oodles of hot, sexy, steamy scenes in this book. You'll surely have your fix!
This is a short read but I wish the transition between their fears and doubts to moving on and conquering their uncertainty should've been smoother like a defining moment (or something), that they were better together than apart.
An awesome debut by Zoe York!
December 7, 2014
4.5 mildly smutty stars
This was my first Zoe York novel and it fulfilled exactly what I want from escapist romance: steamy sex scenes, a convincing likeability for and between the H and h, and some bang-up writing [and by that, I mean some of the best structured writing I've found in a romance novel in a very long time].
A little Harlequin-esque [nothing wrong with that - Harlequin wrote the book (LOL) on romance], the story is small-town-turned-big-city girl [Laney] is still heartbroken over her first and lost love, Kyle. Maybe she should be a little more over it all, but Ms. York manages to convey Laney's stalled emotions authentically, and the situation underscores just how much Laney loves Kyle still. Of course, everything works out in a well-executed HEA, just as every romance should! [My edition featured excerpts from others in the Wardham series, giving me a taste that, I imagine, I will spend some lazy winter days sampling.]
This was my first Zoe York novel and it fulfilled exactly what I want from escapist romance: steamy sex scenes, a convincing likeability for and between the H and h, and some bang-up writing [and by that, I mean some of the best structured writing I've found in a romance novel in a very long time].
A little Harlequin-esque [nothing wrong with that - Harlequin wrote the book (LOL) on romance], the story is small-town-turned-big-city girl [Laney] is still heartbroken over her first and lost love, Kyle. Maybe she should be a little more over it all, but Ms. York manages to convey Laney's stalled emotions authentically, and the situation underscores just how much Laney loves Kyle still. Of course, everything works out in a well-executed HEA, just as every romance should! [My edition featured excerpts from others in the Wardham series, giving me a taste that, I imagine, I will spend some lazy winter days sampling.]
November 14, 2015
Another book that reminded me of a sappy hallmark movie. Not a bad read.
August 5, 2014
Originally posted at Bedroom Bookworms book blog.
What Once was Perfect is a book that has been on my Kindle for ages. For once in my life, I was caught up on ARCs and I needed a palate cleanser after Lick (because nothing was going to compete with it) and I thought I’d give it a try. I enjoyed it, but it was just a little bit slow-paced for me. It reads a lot like a traditional harlequin romance, but with slightly steamier smut. It worked well as the palate cleanser I needed, but I wouldn’t call it “appointment reading.”
Overall Rating: 3.5 Stars: Worth a few minutes before bedtime.
Laney and Kyle were college sweethearts who didn’t survive a long distance relationship. We meet them again as Laney comes back home for the holidays. It’s a completely believable tale. It’s sweet, it’s romantic, it’s even pretty hot. But something about it just didn’t grab me by the Feels and draw me in.
I liked Laney. She’s a doctor and a good person. I liked her bull-by-the-horns attitude. I respect any woman who pretty much says “screw the rules. I want him.” She’s also a good aunt, sister and daughter. She’s completely likeable.
Kyle is a nice guy, too. An idiot occasionally (aren’t they all?) but a nice guy. I appreciated his ability to admit his mistakes and his willingness to risk it all for Laney. Plus he has a great dog. Who can resist?
The store is also sweet. I think what the story lacks is any great conflict. Sure, Laney is a little scarred from being hurt. But she doesn’t do anything angsty or dramatic. And sure, Kyle does give us a grand gesture in the end. But none of it made me chew at my fingernails or really worry. They were just good people meant to be together.
What Once was Perfect is a well-written, quick read that leaves you smiling. But it’s more like ice cream than a great steak; sweet, but not all that fulfilling.
Smut Factor: 3 stars - Not Bad
Character likability: 4 stars - I wish we were friends.
Storytelling: 4 stars - Totally bought it.
Writing and editing quality: 5 stars - Excellent!
What Once was Perfect is a book that has been on my Kindle for ages. For once in my life, I was caught up on ARCs and I needed a palate cleanser after Lick (because nothing was going to compete with it) and I thought I’d give it a try. I enjoyed it, but it was just a little bit slow-paced for me. It reads a lot like a traditional harlequin romance, but with slightly steamier smut. It worked well as the palate cleanser I needed, but I wouldn’t call it “appointment reading.”
Overall Rating: 3.5 Stars: Worth a few minutes before bedtime.
He was her first love...
Heading home always stirs up mixed emotions for Laney Calhoun. Twelve years ago she left for graduate school, broken-hearted. Now she's determined to step outside her comfort zone, right after a week in Wardham for the Christmas holidays. But running into her first love puts the plan into overdrive, and as sparks fly and items of clothing disappear, she scrambles to keep her emotions in check.
...and she's always owned a piece of his heart.
Kyle Nixon let Laney slip away once. Their chemistry together is undeniable, but steamy sex is not enough to convince her to let him back into her heart. Even if she did trust him again, her medical career is five hundred miles away from the hometown that he loves, and the life that he once chose over her. But giving her up again just isn't an option.
Come home to Wardham. Come home to love.
Laney and Kyle were college sweethearts who didn’t survive a long distance relationship. We meet them again as Laney comes back home for the holidays. It’s a completely believable tale. It’s sweet, it’s romantic, it’s even pretty hot. But something about it just didn’t grab me by the Feels and draw me in.
"Laney, sweetheart, that's not a good idea." It's brilliant, asshole, shut up.
I liked Laney. She’s a doctor and a good person. I liked her bull-by-the-horns attitude. I respect any woman who pretty much says “screw the rules. I want him.” She’s also a good aunt, sister and daughter. She’s completely likeable.
Kyle is a nice guy, too. An idiot occasionally (aren’t they all?) but a nice guy. I appreciated his ability to admit his mistakes and his willingness to risk it all for Laney. Plus he has a great dog. Who can resist?
"You've got fifteen seconds to come on my hand, sweetheart."
The store is also sweet. I think what the story lacks is any great conflict. Sure, Laney is a little scarred from being hurt. But she doesn’t do anything angsty or dramatic. And sure, Kyle does give us a grand gesture in the end. But none of it made me chew at my fingernails or really worry. They were just good people meant to be together.
What Once was Perfect is a well-written, quick read that leaves you smiling. But it’s more like ice cream than a great steak; sweet, but not all that fulfilling.
He was lost forever in a sea of Laney.
Smut Factor: 3 stars - Not Bad
Character likability: 4 stars - I wish we were friends.
Storytelling: 4 stars - Totally bought it.
Writing and editing quality: 5 stars - Excellent!
October 17, 2013
I am happy to announce that I am officially out of my reading slump.
After finishing Leap of Faith, I was somewhat vary about reading this book because I really did not want to go back to the dark place, so I started this book with a heavy dose of skepticism and a tiny fledgling of hope.
I was not disappointed. There were a lot of things that could have gone wrong with this book but the author pulled through. While there were some things that didn’t work for me, I was rather happy with the outcome.
Like their relationship. It could have gone so absolutely wrong. I mean they broke up 12 years ago and the last time they saw each other was 2 years ago at her father’s funeral. Think about the amount of angst that could have ensued or the fictional amount of time they could have spent avoiding each other?
Thankfully they acted like the adults they were and even though things were slightly awkward they actually sat down to talk about it. And let me just say this because I personally believe it’s a big deal, it was the chic (Laney) who took initiative NOT THE GUY! Do you know how big of a deal this is? You know what’s even bigger a deal? They actually talked through what went wrong the first time around (kind of) and came to peace with the actual break up (it’s about time anyway, 12 years is a long long time). We also had someone take the blame, while I usually hate it when one person takes the blame for a relationship gone south, I must agree that Kyle really did make it a whole lot worse.
They don’t exactly agree to give it another shot but they decide to enjoy their short time together. They realize that they have grown up and matured since the last time they were together so while the chances of them having a real relationship are next to impossible the live in different countries), they can still enjoy the time they do have.
The relationship was the strong point of the book for me, the characters, not so much. I liked them but they could have been a whole lot better.
Laney had me vary right off the bat. She hasn’t been in a real relationship since her breakup and doesn’t believe in love. The only real relationship she had had was with Kyle, which was over 12 years ago when she was still young and somewhat naïve. That tells me that she never matured emotionally which is rather important in a character isn’t it? How do I like a character that defines all relationships by a failed one? If Kyle really had been the center of her universe she should have stayed instead of going off to Harvard right?
Kyle was still better than Laney because at least he attempted other relationships. What I didn’t like about him (this contradicts what I said earlier when I was talking about their relationship but I am trying to separate the relationship and the characters here because it makes more sense to me) was the fact that he took all the blame. He spent years blaming Laney for the break up (which was obviously the wrong thing to do) and then he suddenly decides that it was his fault? He also goes as far as taking blame for Laney’s ruined idea about love/relationships. NO! It’s not your fault! She should be smart enough to realize otherwise, because, I am quoting what she said here,
If she realizes that and has made peace with it, so should you dammit!
I am not going to dwell into the actual cause of the breakup because it would be wrong for me to judge these characters on their past mistakes when they have obviously grown since then and realized what went wrong.
All in all this was a pretty fun read. It was light and had good romance. You cannot ask for much more.
This review has also been posted on my blog
After finishing Leap of Faith, I was somewhat vary about reading this book because I really did not want to go back to the dark place, so I started this book with a heavy dose of skepticism and a tiny fledgling of hope.
I was not disappointed. There were a lot of things that could have gone wrong with this book but the author pulled through. While there were some things that didn’t work for me, I was rather happy with the outcome.
Like their relationship. It could have gone so absolutely wrong. I mean they broke up 12 years ago and the last time they saw each other was 2 years ago at her father’s funeral. Think about the amount of angst that could have ensued or the fictional amount of time they could have spent avoiding each other?
Thankfully they acted like the adults they were and even though things were slightly awkward they actually sat down to talk about it. And let me just say this because I personally believe it’s a big deal, it was the chic (Laney) who took initiative NOT THE GUY! Do you know how big of a deal this is? You know what’s even bigger a deal? They actually talked through what went wrong the first time around (kind of) and came to peace with the actual break up (it’s about time anyway, 12 years is a long long time). We also had someone take the blame, while I usually hate it when one person takes the blame for a relationship gone south, I must agree that Kyle really did make it a whole lot worse.
They don’t exactly agree to give it another shot but they decide to enjoy their short time together. They realize that they have grown up and matured since the last time they were together so while the chances of them having a real relationship are next to impossible the live in different countries), they can still enjoy the time they do have.
The relationship was the strong point of the book for me, the characters, not so much. I liked them but they could have been a whole lot better.
Laney had me vary right off the bat. She hasn’t been in a real relationship since her breakup and doesn’t believe in love. The only real relationship she had had was with Kyle, which was over 12 years ago when she was still young and somewhat naïve. That tells me that she never matured emotionally which is rather important in a character isn’t it? How do I like a character that defines all relationships by a failed one? If Kyle really had been the center of her universe she should have stayed instead of going off to Harvard right?
Kyle was still better than Laney because at least he attempted other relationships. What I didn’t like about him (this contradicts what I said earlier when I was talking about their relationship but I am trying to separate the relationship and the characters here because it makes more sense to me) was the fact that he took all the blame. He spent years blaming Laney for the break up (which was obviously the wrong thing to do) and then he suddenly decides that it was his fault? He also goes as far as taking blame for Laney’s ruined idea about love/relationships. NO! It’s not your fault! She should be smart enough to realize otherwise, because, I am quoting what she said here,
“Not that young. Too young to make it work, maybe, but not too young to know what it was”
If she realizes that and has made peace with it, so should you dammit!
I am not going to dwell into the actual cause of the breakup because it would be wrong for me to judge these characters on their past mistakes when they have obviously grown since then and realized what went wrong.
All in all this was a pretty fun read. It was light and had good romance. You cannot ask for much more.
This review has also been posted on my blog
July 31, 2014
4.5 Sweetest Stars Ever
Returning to her hometown for the holidays, after years of avoidance, isn't an easy task for Laney. Laney left and didn't return for a good reason - ex boyfriend Kyle. Kyle was her first and only love. After he broke her heart, she had sworn herself to never get hurt again and to lock her heart down. Now, being in her hometown it is inevitable to not come across Kyle. When he suddenly (thanks to her mom) knocks on her door she's dumbfounded and doesn't know right away what to do, say, react or think. Laney is still heart broken after all those years because both left things unspoken and it literally tore them apart.
After Kyle made the first step and invited her to his new home for some coffee, Laney finds herself shortly knocking at his door. Kyle was facing the same struggle as Laney; he never loved someone as much as he did her and regretted his stupid decision 12 years ago. He wanted to explain so much, make things right with Laney -but will she let him? Will she open up to him again, risking to get hurt again? Or is this just going to be a vacation fling with him? Kyle knows he hurt her so deeply it will be a hard task to win her over. Is he even ready to invest again in this once cherished young love with Laney? Find out for yourself ;)
Both fully enjoy Laney's short vacation back home - but are those 10 days enough? Enough for her to let him in, in her heart to consume her with his love as he used to do?
"She couldn't give him forever, but she could give him an unforgettable right now."
10 days fly by very fast and Laney has to head back to work and into her real world -without a Kyle in it. On their last night realization hit her as she was recalling there time together while watching a naked sleeping Kyle:
Time stood still as he loved her with his mouth, then his hands, and finally with his whole body, hip to hip, chest to chest, mouth to mouth. He held his gaze as he thrust into her again and again, sure and steady, as if to say, this could be our every night. This should be our forever. Matching tremours wrecked through their bodies, as if his orgasm triggered hers and vice versa. As if they were one.
This love story was by far the sweetest and most real story I've read in a very long time; if I even read such a story ever. It wasn't too long or too short. I loved this story and only put it down because I had to sleep. As you might know I'm not such a big fan of romance stories, if it isn't mixed into a paranormal,fantasy, etc story -but this, your story my dear Zoe was pure bliss to read. I was smiling and in constant awe. Why I loved this story so much, here is why: The story and characters felt real, I could totally relate to them and understood every action and thought. There was no unnecessary drama, bitching around or awkwardness. It felt real, all the time, and that's what I like in a story. Even the side characters felt real, no super perfect people -only perfect in the eye who loved them- and no extreme twists and turns; exactly how this story should be.
Kyle is a dream, for real. I was smiling and yeah even giggling- he is perfect and normal to the same time. Laney, a woman standing with both feet in life, was joy to read. Another plus was that you could read from both Kyle as well as Laney's perspective. I really enjoyed it.
All I say is that there is no cliffhanger and yes I loved the end. If I would recommend this story? Of course!! It's pure joy to read their love story.
*I was given a copy by the author for an honest review*
For more reviews visit our blog: http://hookmeupbookblog.blogspot.com.au/
Returning to her hometown for the holidays, after years of avoidance, isn't an easy task for Laney. Laney left and didn't return for a good reason - ex boyfriend Kyle. Kyle was her first and only love. After he broke her heart, she had sworn herself to never get hurt again and to lock her heart down. Now, being in her hometown it is inevitable to not come across Kyle. When he suddenly (thanks to her mom) knocks on her door she's dumbfounded and doesn't know right away what to do, say, react or think. Laney is still heart broken after all those years because both left things unspoken and it literally tore them apart.
After Kyle made the first step and invited her to his new home for some coffee, Laney finds herself shortly knocking at his door. Kyle was facing the same struggle as Laney; he never loved someone as much as he did her and regretted his stupid decision 12 years ago. He wanted to explain so much, make things right with Laney -but will she let him? Will she open up to him again, risking to get hurt again? Or is this just going to be a vacation fling with him? Kyle knows he hurt her so deeply it will be a hard task to win her over. Is he even ready to invest again in this once cherished young love with Laney? Find out for yourself ;)
Both fully enjoy Laney's short vacation back home - but are those 10 days enough? Enough for her to let him in, in her heart to consume her with his love as he used to do?
"She couldn't give him forever, but she could give him an unforgettable right now."
10 days fly by very fast and Laney has to head back to work and into her real world -without a Kyle in it. On their last night realization hit her as she was recalling there time together while watching a naked sleeping Kyle:
Time stood still as he loved her with his mouth, then his hands, and finally with his whole body, hip to hip, chest to chest, mouth to mouth. He held his gaze as he thrust into her again and again, sure and steady, as if to say, this could be our every night. This should be our forever. Matching tremours wrecked through their bodies, as if his orgasm triggered hers and vice versa. As if they were one.
This love story was by far the sweetest and most real story I've read in a very long time; if I even read such a story ever. It wasn't too long or too short. I loved this story and only put it down because I had to sleep. As you might know I'm not such a big fan of romance stories, if it isn't mixed into a paranormal,fantasy, etc story -but this, your story my dear Zoe was pure bliss to read. I was smiling and in constant awe. Why I loved this story so much, here is why: The story and characters felt real, I could totally relate to them and understood every action and thought. There was no unnecessary drama, bitching around or awkwardness. It felt real, all the time, and that's what I like in a story. Even the side characters felt real, no super perfect people -only perfect in the eye who loved them- and no extreme twists and turns; exactly how this story should be.
Kyle is a dream, for real. I was smiling and yeah even giggling- he is perfect and normal to the same time. Laney, a woman standing with both feet in life, was joy to read. Another plus was that you could read from both Kyle as well as Laney's perspective. I really enjoyed it.
All I say is that there is no cliffhanger and yes I loved the end. If I would recommend this story? Of course!! It's pure joy to read their love story.
*I was given a copy by the author for an honest review*
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July 5, 2013
5 STARS
ABSOLUTELY LOVED!!!!!!
"Love is Overrated"........Laney didn't do emotional entanglements, they were banned from her life a long time ago. She barely did physical relationships, only agreeing into a sexual arrangement if interested party understood several criteria which many men ran once they heard these terms.
Twelve years ago, she was left broken hearted by her first and only love, Kyle. When deciding to go to graduate school 12 years ago, Kyle decided he could not do a long distance relationship and broke up with Laney. Left totally devasted, she decided to put all her energy into school and work toward her career as a doctor. This has been her life for 12 years.
Returning home for the holidays, Laney runs into Kyle. Every emotion and feeling she has buried for 12 years are suddenly in front of her. She has never forgotten or forgiven him for breaking her heart. This is why Laney makes no attempts for romantic relationships because she never wants to feel what she felt the day Kyle walked away. When Kyle shows up at her doorstep, both are speechless but Kyle attempts to make small talk and invites her to visit his house which is next door to her mom's farm. Evie, Laney's sister, trying to convince Laney to talk with Kyle in order to move on with her life.
"You've got stuff there you need to work through, and it's not happening if you pretend he doesn't exist."
Laney refuses to believe there is anything to work through but does admit it's awkward because it didn't "end amicably and it wasn't healthy to be tense about a college boyfriend a decade later". Then she decides maybe it would be good for them to talk about what happened and clear the air.
Kyle has continued to live his life and follow his dreams of being a teacher after Laney went away to grad school. He knows the mistake of his life was letting her go and has tried everything possible to forget her. But every relationship he encounters falls apart because no one will ever be the one but Laney. After he takes a break from dating for two years, Laney is back.......and OMG! This is where all the fun, steamy hot sex comes in.....Both of them agree to enjoy the holidays with no strings attached.....but can they do that knowing how strong their feelings are for one another.........even if she wanted something more it would be impossible because after the holidays she will return to her life in Chicago as a plastic surgeon. Kyle once gave her up for his career and life in Wardham, will he make this mistake again?
"There weren't any promises of a future life together, either, but he didn't need to live like a monk anymore. Two years was more than enough time for soul-searching and penance. As long as Laney was close enough to touch, to breath in, to taste like his g..damn last meal, he would take whatever she offered and not ask any questions about what it might cost him when she inevitably left."
I truly fell in love with Laney's family: Claire (Laney's mom) and Evie (Laney's sister). Leave it to family to tell you like it is..........
"I hate to suggest that you just have a fling, but you're a grown up. Just because Kyle lives here doesn't mean he can't make the drive to Chicago. And I'd love it if you visit more, even if your primary reason was a booty call." .....(Claire)
This is one of those good ole' love stories.......but of course with lots of hot yummy sex!!!!!!!. So entertaining with all the small town gossip, family issues, and of course love hate relationship between Laney and Kyle.
Awesome Job Zoe York.....Keep up the good work!
*Review by Kim
June 1, 2016
Laney Calhoun broke up with her college boyfriend Kyle Nixon when he wanted her to marry him after going away to college. Problem is he thought she broke up with him.
Twelve years later, she’s back in town for Christmas.
And back in Kyle’s bed.
***
I am digging in the dungeon of my kindle.
I can’t work out why they broke up. The most devastating event of her life… it seems. She said she had to go to Harvard and he said a year apart was too long. And… that was it. No talk? I’m confused.
Oh, good god NO - not the altoid blowjob myth. EEEK.
http://www.snopes.com/risque/aphrodis...
And for fuck’s sake do NOT do that to a woman ‘in return’ as Kyle offered. That’s a fast track to thrush and yeast infections. Keep the food and sugar away from the vagina, people.
Also this character is supposed to be a medical doctor. An Assistant Professor of Medicine. Board-certified surgeon. She ought to know this stuff. NO. I repeat. HELL NO!
I dunno… seems like a good idea to me. What the hell is wrong with this woman???
I dislike the main character. He texts her and she can’t reply because she can’t ‘summon her inner flirt’ ffs just say hello or thanks, or something normal. A relationship is not about flirting all the time. She’s supposed to be an adult.
I skimmed to the end… where he proposes again.
Meh.
2 stars
Twelve years later, she’s back in town for Christmas.
And back in Kyle’s bed.
***
I am digging in the dungeon of my kindle.
I can’t work out why they broke up. The most devastating event of her life… it seems. She said she had to go to Harvard and he said a year apart was too long. And… that was it. No talk? I’m confused.
Oh, good god NO - not the altoid blowjob myth. EEEK.
http://www.snopes.com/risque/aphrodis...
And for fuck’s sake do NOT do that to a woman ‘in return’ as Kyle offered. That’s a fast track to thrush and yeast infections. Keep the food and sugar away from the vagina, people.
Also this character is supposed to be a medical doctor. An Assistant Professor of Medicine. Board-certified surgeon. She ought to know this stuff. NO. I repeat. HELL NO!
“Why on earth would you want me to be with him?”
“Because he obviously makes you happy.”
And damned if that wasn’t the wildcard of truth. Laney shook her head. “That’s the worst reason I could think of.” (p. 81).
I dunno… seems like a good idea to me. What the hell is wrong with this woman???
I dislike the main character. He texts her and she can’t reply because she can’t ‘summon her inner flirt’ ffs just say hello or thanks, or something normal. A relationship is not about flirting all the time. She’s supposed to be an adult.
I skimmed to the end… where he proposes again.
Meh.
2 stars
August 19, 2013
What Once Was Perfect by Zoe York has just pole-vaulted its way into my heart and onto my favorites list. I adored this book. When I first picked it up, I assumed it would be a sweet romance about life in a small town. It is, and it is so much more. Don't be fooled by the sweet cover- this book is hot. The chemistry and subsequent sex between Kyle and Laney is scorching, as it would be for lost loves who rediscover each other quite by accident. Ms. York took me on an emotional roller coaster ride and I hated putting this book down. Not only did Zoe York play with my heart strings, she ripped my heart out of my chest and dangled it in front of me. I apologize for the gruesome imagery, but that is how I felt. I wanted so badly for this couple to be together, especially after past trials and present logistics problems. Yes, in many ways, this was a quiet story about lovers learning what is most important. There are no big action scenes or over-the-top characters. Much of the conflict is internal, but boy, this author kept me flipping pages so quickly my Kobo almost burned out. I fell in love with Kyle, the teacher with heart, and rooted for Laney, the doctor who is devoted to her career. When it looked as if all was lost, I cried for them. And when Ms. York presented her wonderful resolution, I cheered. I will be adding any future books by Zoe York to my TBR list, and when they are released, they will automatically jump to the top of my pile. This was that good.
September 15, 2014
Ehh, its was just one of those guilty pleasure reads that I got for free on my Kindle. It was 80% 'erotica' and 20% stupid story. I liked the flashbacks and how they went with the present situation. I did also like the setting though and that the story line had potential...it was just never met. All the characters annoyed me and like I said, a lot of the parts were stupid. I guess there's more books and Im totally not going to read them! Like I said, just a guilty pleasure kind of read.
December 12, 2014
DNF at 39%. Could not get past the history drama of this couple. They were kids. At least he TRIED to move on. Laney just comes off as a bitter woman scorned. And I doubt it gets any better from here. At nearly forty percent and I am not invested in these characters at all. This one is a no go for me. Thank god it was free.
October 30, 2023
I am loving this small town series and I don't typically like small town series so much, but this one works mainly because it also contains a lot of heat. I do adore a second chance romance and Kyle was a moron and fully at fault for their original breakup and I'm glad he eventually realized he was at fault and not Laney. Secondly, I had feared the book would be resolved with Laney choosing to move back to their small town and compromise by giving up her big city dreams and career aspirations (she's a surgeon) but I was so pleasantly surprised when Kyle chooses to move to Chicago for Laney and go back to school to get his masters so he can continue his teaching career there. I loved that resolution so much!
December 23, 2013
********I received an ARC copy of this book in exchange for an honest review********
4.5 stars
I have had this book on my review pile for a while, and after reading it I’m cross with myself that I didn’t read it sooner. I’m such a sucker for a second chance romance story, and this book was a perfect read on a Saturday afternoon.
Returning home to her home town of Wardham Canada for the Christmas holiday Delaney Calhoun finds herself face to face with Kyle Nixon her ex boyfriends who left her broken hearted twelve years ago when he ended their relationship. Laney now lives in Chicago and has moved on with her life, but the break up affect her emotionally she is very guarded, as she doesn’t want to get hurt again. Laney had relationships, but she never lets anyone get too close.
“Laney had banned emotional entanglement from her life a long time ago. Never again would she be vulnerable and give her heart to someone. It wasn’t worth the pain”
Kyle one biggest regret is letting Laney go, he too has had relationships, but deep down he always knew Laney was the only one for him. After twelve, years, sparks fly, strong intense emotions of love, but also anger return, and the chemistry is undeniable. Kyle wants Laney back, he knows he hurt her he wants to make thing right, and get her to trust him again.
“I’m an idiot, so I didn’t realize it until I was twenty-two, and then I let you go, a bonehead move that I will always regret.”~ Kyle
I liked the storyline told in from Laney and Kyle’s POV about second chances and family. It was romantic, charming, and funny. Loved the Christmas morning Pilate’s scene. It had just the right amount angst. Laney and Kyle are likeable, and well develop characters. Two people that you know are meant to be together. The chemistry between them meant there were plenty of steamy scenes.
“She once believed that love and chemistry were one and the same, and she blocked both out of her life, but today she blew that idea out of the water”.
“She didn’t need to play the seductress, or any other game. They wanted each other with honest abandon, and neither of them would fight it”
I like that Laney and Kyle are honest with each other about their feelings, regarding the past and possible future. Their emotions are real as they try to overcome the issues that could keep them apart for the second time around.
“The agony here? I don’t like to feel that. And it’s inevitable, so this?” She pointed at her heart. “That’s off limits. To everyone.”
“That’s my fault, then, and I’m sorry. To you, and all the men out there that’s probably want to love you. They’re missing out.”~ Kyle
Loved the secondary characters, Laney’s mum, sister, and her nephews, there was something about them. They have such a heartwarming relationship. Loved that it was set in a small town, the nosiness and the gossiping of the locals was very funny.
"I hate to suggest that you just have a fling, but you're a grown up. Just because Kyle lives here doesn't mean he can't make the drive to Chicago. And I'd love it if you visit more, even if your primary reason was a booty call." Claire Laney’s mum
Overall I really enjoyed this book it was a short read, but well written, and I liked the pace of the book. It had the feel of a made- for -TV Christmas movie that I loved to watch at this time of year. This was the first book I have read by Zoe York, and I will definitely be reading more. In fact, as soon as I finished this one, I added all her other books to my TBR list. I liked Zoe’s writing style. There was no cliffhanger just a sweet happy ending.
If you loved second chance romance stories, that are steamy, will make you laugh and smile then What Once Was Perfect is just what you need so go one click today.
4.5 stars
I have had this book on my review pile for a while, and after reading it I’m cross with myself that I didn’t read it sooner. I’m such a sucker for a second chance romance story, and this book was a perfect read on a Saturday afternoon.
Returning home to her home town of Wardham Canada for the Christmas holiday Delaney Calhoun finds herself face to face with Kyle Nixon her ex boyfriends who left her broken hearted twelve years ago when he ended their relationship. Laney now lives in Chicago and has moved on with her life, but the break up affect her emotionally she is very guarded, as she doesn’t want to get hurt again. Laney had relationships, but she never lets anyone get too close.
“Laney had banned emotional entanglement from her life a long time ago. Never again would she be vulnerable and give her heart to someone. It wasn’t worth the pain”
Kyle one biggest regret is letting Laney go, he too has had relationships, but deep down he always knew Laney was the only one for him. After twelve, years, sparks fly, strong intense emotions of love, but also anger return, and the chemistry is undeniable. Kyle wants Laney back, he knows he hurt her he wants to make thing right, and get her to trust him again.
“I’m an idiot, so I didn’t realize it until I was twenty-two, and then I let you go, a bonehead move that I will always regret.”~ Kyle
I liked the storyline told in from Laney and Kyle’s POV about second chances and family. It was romantic, charming, and funny. Loved the Christmas morning Pilate’s scene. It had just the right amount angst. Laney and Kyle are likeable, and well develop characters. Two people that you know are meant to be together. The chemistry between them meant there were plenty of steamy scenes.
“She once believed that love and chemistry were one and the same, and she blocked both out of her life, but today she blew that idea out of the water”.
“She didn’t need to play the seductress, or any other game. They wanted each other with honest abandon, and neither of them would fight it”
I like that Laney and Kyle are honest with each other about their feelings, regarding the past and possible future. Their emotions are real as they try to overcome the issues that could keep them apart for the second time around.
“The agony here? I don’t like to feel that. And it’s inevitable, so this?” She pointed at her heart. “That’s off limits. To everyone.”
“That’s my fault, then, and I’m sorry. To you, and all the men out there that’s probably want to love you. They’re missing out.”~ Kyle
Loved the secondary characters, Laney’s mum, sister, and her nephews, there was something about them. They have such a heartwarming relationship. Loved that it was set in a small town, the nosiness and the gossiping of the locals was very funny.
"I hate to suggest that you just have a fling, but you're a grown up. Just because Kyle lives here doesn't mean he can't make the drive to Chicago. And I'd love it if you visit more, even if your primary reason was a booty call." Claire Laney’s mum
Overall I really enjoyed this book it was a short read, but well written, and I liked the pace of the book. It had the feel of a made- for -TV Christmas movie that I loved to watch at this time of year. This was the first book I have read by Zoe York, and I will definitely be reading more. In fact, as soon as I finished this one, I added all her other books to my TBR list. I liked Zoe’s writing style. There was no cliffhanger just a sweet happy ending.
If you loved second chance romance stories, that are steamy, will make you laugh and smile then What Once Was Perfect is just what you need so go one click today.
January 6, 2015
This review was originally posted to Jen in Bookland
3.5 stars
What Once Was Perfect was a good read. It was hot and continued my theme of holiday stories where the people work through whatever issues and finally get together. The difference was this time they had dated in the past. They both were in love, but they both ended up broken hearted.
Laney and Kyle grew up in the same town and fell in love in college. They have obvious chemistry and they both wanted to be together forever, but Kyle messed that up. It has been twelve years since they broke up, since Laney left for graduate school broken hearted. She has not seen Kyle since then and really she has not let anyone else in. She doesn't want to fall in love again. It hurts too much. She just wants to work and coast through life. She just doesn't want to move on.
Kyle didn't want to wait for Laney to finish her graduate schooling. He didn't want to spend a year apart, and that ended things between them. For a long time he considered Laney the girl who broke his heart when she did not come back after she finished school. It is not until her family sets him straight that he realizes he is not the only one suffering. He has tried to move on, tried to have a life with someone else, but it just doesn't work out. He needs closure with Laney and when she comes home for Christmas he is hoping they might be able to get that.
When Laney first sees Kyle she is not ready for all that she feels. She is still attracted to him, but she can't do anything more. Their mutual attraction is hot! They still go well together, and Kyle definitely wants more. Kyles wants Laney forever if he can just find a way to convince her to give him another chance and figure out how to make it work. After all she does live a good ways away and they don't want a long distance thing.
While I liked both of them together, Kyle can be a bit..he just doesn't think about what he says and how that will come off to Laney. He is not really stupid, but he makes some stupid decisions. I didn't love him, but I did want Laney to be happy so it worked. It was still a good read and I enjoyed watching the two of them work through everything that happened and start a new.
3.5 stars
What Once Was Perfect was a good read. It was hot and continued my theme of holiday stories where the people work through whatever issues and finally get together. The difference was this time they had dated in the past. They both were in love, but they both ended up broken hearted.
Laney and Kyle grew up in the same town and fell in love in college. They have obvious chemistry and they both wanted to be together forever, but Kyle messed that up. It has been twelve years since they broke up, since Laney left for graduate school broken hearted. She has not seen Kyle since then and really she has not let anyone else in. She doesn't want to fall in love again. It hurts too much. She just wants to work and coast through life. She just doesn't want to move on.
Kyle didn't want to wait for Laney to finish her graduate schooling. He didn't want to spend a year apart, and that ended things between them. For a long time he considered Laney the girl who broke his heart when she did not come back after she finished school. It is not until her family sets him straight that he realizes he is not the only one suffering. He has tried to move on, tried to have a life with someone else, but it just doesn't work out. He needs closure with Laney and when she comes home for Christmas he is hoping they might be able to get that.
When Laney first sees Kyle she is not ready for all that she feels. She is still attracted to him, but she can't do anything more. Their mutual attraction is hot! They still go well together, and Kyle definitely wants more. Kyles wants Laney forever if he can just find a way to convince her to give him another chance and figure out how to make it work. After all she does live a good ways away and they don't want a long distance thing.
While I liked both of them together, Kyle can be a bit..he just doesn't think about what he says and how that will come off to Laney. He is not really stupid, but he makes some stupid decisions. I didn't love him, but I did want Laney to be happy so it worked. It was still a good read and I enjoyed watching the two of them work through everything that happened and start a new.
October 29, 2013
From: http://saaratis.wordpress.com/2013/10...
I got a copy of the book from the author in exchange for an honest review.
What Once Was Perfect by Zoe York is the first in her contemporary romance series Wardham. Delaeny Calhoun is a plastic surgeon working in Chicago. She still hasn't gotten over her first love, and her relationships are short lived arrangements. Will this Christmas at her hometown Wardham turn over a tide for Laney?
Kyle Nixon made a mistake. He let the girl he loved the most slip away. And he blamed her for a long while for the end of their relationship. But is it too late to rectify what was the worst mistake of his life?
This time when she returns home, Kyle has decided to clear things out with Laney, with of course a little push from her mother. Laney is finally ready to hear what he has to say after twelve years,during which she pined for him, but never let herself be vulnerable. To anyone.
Kyle is not going to let her go this time. He'll take what he can get. Even if it's just an occasional romp in the sheets. But neither of them thought they'd fall in love with each other all over again. But this time Laney isn't as free with her heart as she was all those years ago. Which means, Kyle has his work cut out for him.
What Once Was Perfect shows a couple who have always been in love overcome the heartbreak and mistakes of the past and start over a new clean slate. How they learn from the mistakes they made, and promise to do better this time around. It was a well written novel, bittersweet with some really hot love scenes. Actually a lot of love scenes. But if never edged over to erotic. A bittersweet romance that makes you feel good at the end of the day. The loved the characters. They were real, they were mistaken. They were just human. I was looking forward to seeing Ian and Carrie, but they just had a blink and you miss it scene.
A 3.5/5 starer book. I really look forward to the next book in the series
I got a copy of the book from the author in exchange for an honest review.
What Once Was Perfect by Zoe York is the first in her contemporary romance series Wardham. Delaeny Calhoun is a plastic surgeon working in Chicago. She still hasn't gotten over her first love, and her relationships are short lived arrangements. Will this Christmas at her hometown Wardham turn over a tide for Laney?
Kyle Nixon made a mistake. He let the girl he loved the most slip away. And he blamed her for a long while for the end of their relationship. But is it too late to rectify what was the worst mistake of his life?
This time when she returns home, Kyle has decided to clear things out with Laney, with of course a little push from her mother. Laney is finally ready to hear what he has to say after twelve years,during which she pined for him, but never let herself be vulnerable. To anyone.
Kyle is not going to let her go this time. He'll take what he can get. Even if it's just an occasional romp in the sheets. But neither of them thought they'd fall in love with each other all over again. But this time Laney isn't as free with her heart as she was all those years ago. Which means, Kyle has his work cut out for him.
What Once Was Perfect shows a couple who have always been in love overcome the heartbreak and mistakes of the past and start over a new clean slate. How they learn from the mistakes they made, and promise to do better this time around. It was a well written novel, bittersweet with some really hot love scenes. Actually a lot of love scenes. But if never edged over to erotic. A bittersweet romance that makes you feel good at the end of the day. The loved the characters. They were real, they were mistaken. They were just human. I was looking forward to seeing Ian and Carrie, but they just had a blink and you miss it scene.
A 3.5/5 starer book. I really look forward to the next book in the series
August 7, 2021
I managed to make it almost halfway into this book before I couldn't take anymore. Laney falls under the category of "Book characters who need therapy". She and Kyle broke up 12 years ago (and it was a weird ambiguous break-up at that...) and this woman is still not over it. She seems bitter and obsessive, living a half-life because a high school relationship fell apart when she left for college. This has apparently left her so emotionally scarred that she hasn't had a real relationship in 12 years - just hookups. I think this is a device used by authors to signal there there is only One True Lurve™ for their MC and this sort of behavior is just a recognition of that. But if someone did this IRL and you were their friend, you would tell them to get over it/see a therapist because this shit is just unhealthy.
Anyway, she returns to her hometown and of course sees Kyle again. It takes like 30 seconds for them to . Don't get me started on the melodramatic "single tear tracking down her face" when she sees a picture of him with an ex-girlfriend while he's standing right next to her. It's been 12 FREAKING YEARS! And she's crying in front of him over a photo?
As for Kyle, wtf dude?
Anyhoo, aside from a ridiculous setup and characters who need serious emotional help, there was no plot in this story - just a series of them .
Anyway, she returns to her hometown and of course sees Kyle again. It takes like 30 seconds for them to . Don't get me started on the melodramatic "single tear tracking down her face" when she sees a picture of him with an ex-girlfriend while he's standing right next to her. It's been 12 FREAKING YEARS! And she's crying in front of him over a photo?
As for Kyle, wtf dude?
Anyhoo, aside from a ridiculous setup and characters who need serious emotional help, there was no plot in this story - just a series of them .
September 10, 2016
This is a sweet contemporary romance perfect for curling up on the couch on a rainy day. I say that because the time frame is Christmas, and being that it's so hot here on the East Coast lately I feel like I live on the surface of the sun-it was a great escape.
Laney left home 12 years ago for med school and never looked back. She has a successful career and a few friends with benefits relationships since having her heart broken by the only man who ever really had access to it. Not wanting to take the risk of having her heart broken again, Laney has spent the past 12 years holding herself back from any real relationships. When she goes home for the holidays, she runs into Kyle, the boy who is now a man and sparks long gone fire up again in his presence, along with unwanted and unresolved feelings.
Kyle hasn't stopped kicking himself for letting Laney get away so many years ago, and he hasn't ever really gotten over losing her.
The characters are fun, and well developed. I really liked that they lived in a small town and everyone was giving their opinions which was cute and funny. This is the first in a series and I will look forward to reading the next one as, I really enjoyed the character of Evie, Laney's sister.
This is a stand alone book however without a cliffhanger, which I appreciated- and a great HEA!
Laney left home 12 years ago for med school and never looked back. She has a successful career and a few friends with benefits relationships since having her heart broken by the only man who ever really had access to it. Not wanting to take the risk of having her heart broken again, Laney has spent the past 12 years holding herself back from any real relationships. When she goes home for the holidays, she runs into Kyle, the boy who is now a man and sparks long gone fire up again in his presence, along with unwanted and unresolved feelings.
Kyle hasn't stopped kicking himself for letting Laney get away so many years ago, and he hasn't ever really gotten over losing her.
The characters are fun, and well developed. I really liked that they lived in a small town and everyone was giving their opinions which was cute and funny. This is the first in a series and I will look forward to reading the next one as, I really enjoyed the character of Evie, Laney's sister.
This is a stand alone book however without a cliffhanger, which I appreciated- and a great HEA!
December 15, 2013
OMG! Great book!
Laney Calhoun had her heart broken 12 years ago and as a result she is closed off to ever having another close relationship. Laney is a successful pediatric reconstructive surgeon andi part it was working to become this successful te education to get to this place inher life is what cost her the relationship she had with Kyle Nixon!
Kyle is still in Wardham , moving on with his life trying to over the past12 years hav relationships but they fail he has ajob he loves teaching , he has bought the old school house and is re doing it , into a lovely home just missing the one thing someone to share it with..
Laney comes home to Wardham to visit for the holidays and thanks to a meddling mom , Kyle is thrown in her path.
How to talk to the man who broke your heart ,especially when part of you hates him and the other part of you is instantly turned on. The attraction that still exists after all th years is not one sided , overthe next week the two will talk and embark on what starts out as a fling , but stirs up do much more.
These two are hi and heavy and the sex is like setting fire to dry timber, it burns hot and bright. Great story line with thee two trying to resolve issues but trust is. Tricky thing and Kyle is going to have to work very hard at it!
Laney Calhoun had her heart broken 12 years ago and as a result she is closed off to ever having another close relationship. Laney is a successful pediatric reconstructive surgeon andi part it was working to become this successful te education to get to this place inher life is what cost her the relationship she had with Kyle Nixon!
Kyle is still in Wardham , moving on with his life trying to over the past12 years hav relationships but they fail he has ajob he loves teaching , he has bought the old school house and is re doing it , into a lovely home just missing the one thing someone to share it with..
Laney comes home to Wardham to visit for the holidays and thanks to a meddling mom , Kyle is thrown in her path.
How to talk to the man who broke your heart ,especially when part of you hates him and the other part of you is instantly turned on. The attraction that still exists after all th years is not one sided , overthe next week the two will talk and embark on what starts out as a fling , but stirs up do much more.
These two are hi and heavy and the sex is like setting fire to dry timber, it burns hot and bright. Great story line with thee two trying to resolve issues but trust is. Tricky thing and Kyle is going to have to work very hard at it!
April 6, 2016
2.5 Stars
I'm a huge fan of Ainsley Booth, and when I discovered she also wrote books as Zoe York, I wanted to read all of her other books.
What Once Was Perfect was about a second chance for Kyle and Lanie.
I must say that the narrator was a bit flat for my liking. I had to rewind the beginning a few times to get into the story.
The story itself was about Lanie struggling to love someone after she and Kyle broke up so many years before. Lanie and Kyle bump into each other while Lanie is in town and they reconnect.
I must say I had a hard time connecting to the characters. There is this scene when Lanie and Kyle have a talk about their break up, and Lanie is crying about it....and then they're kissing. It happened so fast, I missed the transition!
Bottom line: the audio is not my favorite and the story was entertaining but predictable.
**Audiobook given by author for honest review. **
I'm a huge fan of Ainsley Booth, and when I discovered she also wrote books as Zoe York, I wanted to read all of her other books.
What Once Was Perfect was about a second chance for Kyle and Lanie.
I must say that the narrator was a bit flat for my liking. I had to rewind the beginning a few times to get into the story.
The story itself was about Lanie struggling to love someone after she and Kyle broke up so many years before. Lanie and Kyle bump into each other while Lanie is in town and they reconnect.
I must say I had a hard time connecting to the characters. There is this scene when Lanie and Kyle have a talk about their break up, and Lanie is crying about it....and then they're kissing. It happened so fast, I missed the transition!
Bottom line: the audio is not my favorite and the story was entertaining but predictable.
**Audiobook given by author for honest review. **
September 1, 2014
Laney is so devastated by the boy who broke her heart twelve years earlier that she can't love anyone. Kyle truly believe she is the reason things didn't work out but has not quite ever moved on. He can't quite commit to anyone and it's all Laney's fault. Laney goes home for the holidays and runs in to her old love and there once and for all needs to be some closure. I liked how their story played out until the end. I felt it was rushed. The author took a lot of time with their reunion but when it was time for her to go home, it just didn't feel right. Overall, good story, steamy romance, likable characters.
August 31, 2014
Far from perfect...not even a close call. Sappy at best. Characters lacked physical definition, terrible editing and unresolved scenes. Attempts to be emotional but winds up emotionless. The only romantic thing about this romance was the brief description of the sleepy little town of Wardham.
December 10, 2015
Loved this little second chance Christmas romance.
December 24, 2017
there's a reason this book is free on kindle...
November 18, 2019
I loved this book. I’m not always a fan of second chance romances where it’s the same couple having the second chance, but I have to say I loved this. I really liked Kyle and how we were shown how he had grown and matured over the years and then decided to fight for what he wants.
I really enjoyed how they tried to look at the pros and cons and to see how they could make the relationship work, ultimately I loved that Kyle wasn’t threatened by Laney being a strong independent career driven women and instead he embraced it and encouraged her. That moment where he was waiting in her apartment lobby was the best.
I’m loving this series and can’t wait to read more.
I really enjoyed how they tried to look at the pros and cons and to see how they could make the relationship work, ultimately I loved that Kyle wasn’t threatened by Laney being a strong independent career driven women and instead he embraced it and encouraged her. That moment where he was waiting in her apartment lobby was the best.
I’m loving this series and can’t wait to read more.
September 15, 2019
This was OK - I liked the family and small town aspect, but wasn't into the leading lady and that clouded my feelings for the story overall. She ran too hot/cold for me and I didn't like how she willfully ignored her true feelings in favor of pursing a casual hookup. I would have preferred more substance/plot and less sex. Not my favorite from Zoe York, but I believe this was her first full length novel, so considerations for that.
January 2, 2021
Love never goes away!
Delaney and Kyle was in love while attending college but when their lives went different ways Kyle got scared and broke things off but 12 yrs later they reunite and talk about what happened but when it was time to go back to their lives neither could do it without missing each other. An Delaney was always afraid he would chicken out and hurt her again.
Delaney and Kyle was in love while attending college but when their lives went different ways Kyle got scared and broke things off but 12 yrs later they reunite and talk about what happened but when it was time to go back to their lives neither could do it without missing each other. An Delaney was always afraid he would chicken out and hurt her again.
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