In Moonlight and Memories: Volume Three

In Moonlight and Memories #3

by Julie Ann Walker

From NYT and USA Today bestselling author Julie Ann Walker comes an epic tale of sacrifice, friendship, and the awe-inspiring power of love.

Maggie: Ten years ago, Cash Armstrong stole my heart. Then he promptly joined the army—dragging my best friend with him—and left me crying on the front porch in a red sequined prom dress. Now he's back. They're both back. Cash, the one who still has my heart. And Luc, the one who saved my life.

Cash: How do you know if you’re at the end of the beginning or the beginning of the end? That's what I've been trying to figure out since a traumatic brain injury made me "unfit to serve." I'm back in New Orleans, and picking up the shattered pieces of my past means I must confront where my life's journey began... and where it all might end.

Luc: Long ago, Maggie May was mine. Not mine in the way you might think. She was mine because she was my only friend. Then Cash came along and we became brothers by something stronger than blood. We became brothers by choice. When tragedy struck, I was forced to make a decision that changed all our lives. I thought, after ten years, it was safe to come back home. I was wrong...

Genres: Romance, Contemporary Romance, Contemporary, Amazon, Friends To Lovers, Romantic Suspense, Ebooks

298 pages, Kindle Edition

First published July 1, 2019

About the author

Julie Ann Walker is the New York Times and USA Today bestselling author. She has won the Book Buyers Best Award, been nominated for the National Readers Choice Award, the Australian Romance Reader Awards, and the Romance Writers of America's prestigious RITA award. Julie loves to travel the world looking for views to compete with her deadlines. And if those views happen to come with a blue sky and sunshine? All the better! When she's not writing, Julie enjoys camping, hiking, cycling, fishing, cooking, petting every dog that walks by her, and... reading, of course!

Be sure to sign up for Julie's occasional newsletter at: http://julieannwalker.com

Or follow her on Facebook: www.facebook.com/julieannwalkerauthor and/or Instagram: @julieannwalker_author.

In Moonlight and Memories:
#1 IN MOONLIGHT AND MEMORIES: VOLUME ONE
#2 IN MOONLIGHT AND MEMORIES: VOLUME TWO
#3 IN MOONLIGHT AND MEMORIES: VOLUME THREE

Black Knights Inc.:
#1 HELL ON WHEELS
#2 IN RIDES TROUBLE
#3 REV IT UP
#4 THRILL RIDE
#5 BORN WILD
#6 HELL FOR LEATHER
#7 FULL THROTTLE
#8 TOO HARD TO HANDLE
#9 WILD RIDE
#10 FUEL FOR FIRE
#11 HOT PURSUIT
#12 BUILT TO LAST

Deep Six:
#0.5 HOT AS HELL
#1 HELL OR HIGH WATER
#2 DEVIL AND THE DEEP
#3 RIDE THE TIDE
#4 DEEPER THAN THE OCEAN
#5 SHOT ACROSS THE BOW
#6 DEAD IN THE WATER

Black Knights Inc: Reloaded:
#1 BACK IN BLACK
#2 BLACK HEARTED
#3 MAN IN BLACK
#4 BLACK MOON RISING
#5 BLACK WIDOW
#6 FADE TO BLACK

Reviews

[Sarah · Rating 5 out of 5]

There is something I had suspected from pretty early on in the first volume that meant I had a rock in the bottom of my stomach from the minute I picked up this book. I went in expecting an emotional read but I honestly had no idea how much it would wreck me, I don't think I've ever read another book that has hit quite so close to home or made me sob so hard as this one. The fact that I'm tearing up again now just thinking about it and that I've been an emotion mess all day since finishing this in the early hours of the morning probably tells you how much it affected me.

That just proves how fantastically well this entire trilogy was written though, how invested I became in lives and friendships of these characters and how much I was rooting for them all to be happy. The last 30% of this book broke me and was gut wrenchingly painful to read but at the same time it was utterly beautiful and does leave you with a sense of hope at the end.

I really can't say much more than that because I don't want to give any spoilers but I will say this is probably the best contemporary romance series the I've ever read. It's definitely one that is going to stick with me for a very, very long time and I can't recommend it highly enough. Thank you Julie Ann Walker for one heck of a ride!

[Dianne · Rating 5 out of 5]

Julie Ann Walker’s finale to the tale of three friends whose relationships were so deeply intertwined is heart stopping, emotionally raw and for anyone who has experienced one of the major events, heart achingly real. This is both the beginning and the end of an epic love triangle where things we do for love are limitless.

I was gutted by the unselfishness, the emotional depth and gut-searing events to the point that I seriously believe this volume requires a trigger warning, not of darkness, not of cruelty but of the heart and its capacity to endure and move forward.

Ms. Walker handled events from the point of view of one who has lived it or was very close to the event. For that, I must thank her for her ability as an author to pull me into the story and relive things I am very familiar with. I also wish I had known ahead of time how raw I would be, in a way I never expected.

I received a complimentary ARC edition from Julie Ann Walker!

Trilogy: In Moonlight and Memories - Book 3
Publisher: Limerence Publications LLC (July 1, 2019)
Publication Date: July 1, 2019
Genre: Contemporary Romance
Print Length: 251 pages
Available from: Amazon | Barnes & Noble
For Reviews, Giveaways, Fabulous Book News, follow: http://tometender.blogspot.com

[Susan Jordens · Rating 5 out of 5]

There are not enough words in the world let alone the universe to describe how wonderful this book is.

This epic love story , set in the hustle and bustle of New Orleans is without any doubt the most beautiful and compassionate story I have ever read. It rates amongst the highest of the high. Words are simply not enough to describe how brilliant this is.

My heart ached, I had tears in my eyes as I read of the three friends. The love and devotion between them was incredible The descriptions were so intense I could feel the beat of the music, taste the aromas from the bistros and live the life of a New Orleans inhabitant.

I simply cannot recommend this book too highly. You have got to read it.

[Jewlsbookblog · Rating 5 out of 5]

Heading into the final volume of this trilogy, I thought I was mostly prepared for what was to come. Man, did I lie to myself! I’m not even going to bother summing this one up, because if you haven’t read the first two by now... well, you’re missing out on what has turned out to be a surprisingly beautiful story about love and friendship. I won’t lie though. Keep the Kleenex handy. By the the time I finished this book, I was crying like nobody’s business and feeling rather bereft, yet I was also left with a sense of joy and hope for new beginnings.

I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced reader copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

[Kodie Mackay · Rating 5 out of 5]

THE CONCLUSION

TRIGGER WARNING
This is not a standalone. DO.NOT.DO.IT. don't fucking ruin it for yourself.
- This is long winded. You're not getting any instant gratification here. Be patient.. I promise it's worth it.

Julie Ann Walker has gone done it. My cold stone heart legit broke into smithereens.

An epic tale of friendship and love, compassion and patience.
This truly is a heart wrenchingly beautiful broken story of three people who have to fight through their past in their present to have their future. It's messy and gut wrenchingly raw. Its about love at all costs through everything.

Maggie, Cash and Luc take you on a fucking journey through emotions you didn't know a story could make you feel. So overwhelming at times it's crippling. It's the kind of beautiful that hurts. These characters go through it. The author really stripped it all back bare and gave us the raw reality of what it's like to live and love. Nothing is ever perfect and for them their journey is all consuming. It's heartbreaking and beautiful. It selflessness and sacrifice. I felt their emotions, connected to the characters and related to their journey in some way.

I cannot comprehend the sheer amount of emotion this story makes you feel. I had a gut feeling something was about to happen but I could not of ever anticipated exactly what, or how much it would affect me. Their story is a masterpiece. Its not easy by any means and this final book hits home.

I cried a fucking river and back. I cursed this author for turning me into an emotional wreck and then I praised her like Jesus for writing a book that can drag my soul through the ringer.

"A story of friendship and sacrifice and redemtion and love. I don't suppose most folks could ask for more than that."

Truly I'm blown away. It's not often I'm left flabbergasted but this book did that and then some.


That epilogue took my soul.

"Our lives are as fragile as a butterfly's wings, as mysterious as the great beyond, and as brief as a human heartbeat. But despite it all, we go on. Because in the end, we know we'll always exist in moonlight and memories."

I laughed, loved, gasped in outrage and cried as my heart broke. This story is just. Let's say fate will break you before it make you and that ending whilst bittersweet was also absolutely perfect for them. Their journey is slow and powerful and I feel like it was written perfectly!. You will fall in love with these characters and their journey and even in the hard times route for their future. If you love a good angsty romance with a few unexpected turns then you will devour this!, you just need to be patient with them and all will work out in the end.

[Susan (susayq ~) · Rating 5 out of 5]

DO NOT TRY TO READ THIS WITHOUT READING THE PREVIOUS TWO BOOKS

Absolutely LOVED the conclusion to this trilogy! This picks up right where book 2 left off and it will leave you in tears. Julie Ann Walker has out done herself with this series. You won't be disappointed with this series.

[Dar · Rating 5 out of 5]

I sit her stunned, slayed, and overcome with emotion. This book wraps up this epic saga, this story of characters who became my friends, became real, and who allowed me the privilege of coming along with them as they journeyed through this part of their story. They had a lot of life happen, and I was there with them. For the highs, for the lows, and for the memories and moments. Their story packed an emotional punch, and will stay with long after I have read it, and long after I write this

Luc, Maggie, and Cash make some big decisions. Luc finally is unable to stand for less, waiting on the side. He asks for what he wants, and push for want he needs. He is respectful, and willing to back away, but he needs some answers. The characters mature past their childhood in their relationships with each other, but the one thing they all hang onto, is the deep and true love and bond they share

This story concludes with a wealth and wave of emotions, and is truly beautiful for it all

[Corinne · Rating 5 out of 5]

Beautifully written and emotional journey of Love

It hard to describe a book that encompasses true love and friendship so well. Three friends whose love for each other is timeless. Where friendship spans over a decade and where they were there when each needed it.
A journey of life and death. Love and Happiness, and of Living and Acceptance.

This trilogy is by far my favourite of 2019 and needs to be read by all.

[Sheryl · Rating 5 out of 5]

Just when you thought you were done putting your emotions through the wringer... WOW!

This book wrapped up this trilogy in the most perfect way.

What a beautifully written story of friendship, loyalty, love... it was everything!

[Claudine Lacerte · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wow! This is the last volume in the In Moonlight and Memories series. It’s the best volume. This volume has you feeling every emotion from pure joy to heartbreaking sadness. This is a great story and I highly recommend this series. Great job Julie Ann Walker!

[Sandy S · Rating 5 out of 5]

4.5 stars--

ABOUT THE BOOK: Release Date July 1, 2019.

From NYT and USA Today bestselling author Julie Ann Walker comes an epic tale of sacrifice, friendship, and the awe-inspiring power of love.

Maggie: Ten years ago, Cash Armstrong stole my heart. Then he promptly joined the army—dragging my best friend with him—and left me crying on the front porch in a red sequined prom dress. Now he's back. They're both back. Cash, the one who still has my heart. And Luc, the one who saved my life.

Cash: How do you know if you’re at the end of the beginning or the beginning of the end? That's what I've been trying to figure out since a traumatic brain injury made me "unfit to serve." I'm back in New Orleans, and picking up the shattered pieces of my past means I must confront where my life's journey began... and where it all might end.

Luc: Long ago, Maggie May was mine. Not mine in the way you might think. She was mine because she was my only friend. Then Cash came along and we became brothers by something stronger than blood. We became brothers by choice. When tragedy struck, I was forced to make a decision that changed all our lives. I thought, after ten years, it was safe to come back home. I was wrong.

••••••••••••

REVIEW: 4.5 stars--IN MOONLIGHT AND MEMORIES Volume 3 by Julie Ann Walker concludes the three part serial focusing on back story, history and present day struggle of three friends in New Orleans, Louisiana: twenty six year old, Magnolia ‘Maggie’ May Carter, and twenty-eight year olds, Cassius ‘Cash’ Armstrong, and Lucien ‘Luc’ Dubois.

Some background: Ten years earlier Maggie Carter’s life spiralled out of control when the boy that she loved disappeared on the night of her prom, never to be heard from until present day. His best friend Luc volunteered to take Maggie to prom but life as they knew it was about to come crashing down. Fast forward to present day wherein Luc and Cash have returned home from their years in the US Army, only to find themselves back in the past facing the same threats, secrets and lies as so many years before.

Told from three first person perspectives (Maggie, Cash and Luc) IN MOONLIGHT AND MEMORIES Volume 3 follows the culmination of a lifetime of friendship, love, secrets and lies. Cash Armstrong continues to fight the battle of his life, as he, Maggie and Luc put a plan into action to take down the men who have and continue to destroy so many lives. Secrets are revealed; hearts will be broken; betrayal and vengeance will seek retribution and more. As Maggie and Luc move forward with their plans, Cash struggles to remain in the here and now.

IN MOONLIGHT AND MEMORIES is a heart breaking, emotional and passionate three part serial focusing on three friends who live hard but love harder. An impassioned, raw and dramatic tale, IN MOONLIGHT AND MEMORIES will stay with you long after the story has ended.

Copy supplied for review

www.thereadingcafe.com

[Romantically Inclined Reviews · Rating 5 out of 5]

I received a copy of this series in exchange for an honest review, which I have copied from my romance novel review blog: romanticallyinclinedreviews.com

In Moonlight and Memories was such an interesting, captivating read. It isn't the Julie Ann Walker we've come to know and love--hot, spicy, sultry, and filthy--but a gentler, softer side that's drawn out over three spectacular novels.

This is a hard novel to review without spoilers (which y'all know I'm strongly against), so I won't speak too much in regards to the plot, but I'll warn you that if quick stories are your jam, then you won't find satisfaction here. Walker throws us into these character's lives and takes us on a journey of deep, troubling emotion. I don't know that I've ever sunk so deep into the minds of the characters or felt their pain, their love, or their angst quite as much as I was able to with Cash, Luc, and Maggie.

And with the end of the book came my tears.

Now, don't get me wrong. This is still a romance novel, though in a different sort of vein that we're used to, so it does have a happy ending. But the path we take to that happy ending dead ends a few times, weaves and turns until we can't remember which way we're supposed to be going. There is so much emotion wrapped up in these three books that I forgot I was reading a novel and thought that perhaps I was reading a memoir.

The long and short of it is that In Moonlight and Memories is a beautifully, soulfully written series that sets you straight down in the middle of a New Orleans' bayou (man, did I learn so much and interjects you into the lives of these troubled cast members. There's long buried secrets, first loves, new romance, and childhood friendships and we get a front row seat to all of it.

[Jillian · Rating 5 out of 5]

What an ending! It did throw me a little bit because it was so emotional and well written. You spend the whole series rooting for Maggie and Cash or Maggie and Luc. By the end you know Maggie and Luc were meant to be. They spend the whole series spinning around each other, with Maggie keeping her real emotions for him on the back burner. But once they figure it all out, you can really feel the love they have for one another and know that they were it. And then there's Cash. His diagnosis, and resulting death were devastating. But then all the hints he was dropping from the beginning started making a whole lot of sense. He did what he thought was right, while also living what little time he had left to the fullest. The way the last few chapters are written were so raw and real. The emotion of it all and the love that shines through is so touching. It was such lovely ending (despite the loss of Cash) to a truly well written trilogy.
I received and ARC of this book for an honest review.

[Speed · Rating 5 out of 5]

In the final volume of M&M series, I have to say that there are very few authors who leave me stunned, at a complete loss of words, as I sit here trying to write this review. I just don't know if I can put what I felt reading this into words but I am going to try. It is epic reading on a scale so large, so grandiose, that you are left emotionally bereft. I cried and cried some more and then I sighed as it ended. Just Wow! Now, I have read all of Ms. Walker's Black Knights Inc., series. Those books are what made me fall in love with you and I have to admit, I was a bit skeptical going into this series but you have done it again. Flawlessly, I might add. Ms. Walker please take a bow to a standing ovation, on another job very well done. 5 STUPENDOUS, OUTSTANDING, BEAUTIFULLY WRITTEN, GUT-WRENCHING STARS******
BRAVO MS. WALKER! BRAVO!!!!

****I voluntarily reviewed this book, provided by the author, in exchange for an honest review.****

[Dana · Rating 4 out of 5]

🌟🌟4 1/2🌟🌟

Now, we get the present. We have their history and now it’s time for the present. Now, I had a little feeling of what was going to happen; I still wasn’t prepared. Volume III was just pure perfection. It was hard to write a review on the previous two volumes because I knew that the third was waiting for me and the story wasn’t over in one or two.

Volume III was heartbreaking as a whole but only because of who was remaining. I highly recommend all three volumes.

Well done Ms. Walker!

[Patti · Rating 5 out of 5]

I don't think I can come up with the appropriate words for this final volume of an epic love story. I'm blown away by its power and intensity. Maggie, Cash and Luc are characters that you want to know. They are real, down to Earth, full of adventure and love for each other. Reading their story leaves an indelible mark that is to be treasured. Oh, and make sure the tissues are still close by, you are going to need them.

I voluntarily reviewed an Advance Reader Copy of this book.

[Angie ~aka Reading Machine~ · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is explosive finale will leave you breathless with all the feels, angst, and more. I was blown away by the depth of emotion. I won't do my traditional style of review because it would absolutely give too much away. Ms. Walker was a favorite author of mine already but she's cemented her status as one of my top favorite authors to read. Go to your nearest bookstore or favorite online retailer and get this series. You won't be disappointed by it.

[Janis F · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a truly amazing love story! Be sure to pick up all 3 books because it’s one continuous story.
Cash, Luc and Maggie’s friendship will forever live in my heart. I loved these characters from the moment I met them.
Their friendship and love was a joy to watch grow.
Julie’s writing style is wonderful. Her Black Nights series is one of my favorites but she gave me another to love.
Pick these books up today!!

[Jennifer · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is the third part of the story and yes you definitely have to read the previous.

There was a feeling I had from the first part that I knew what was going to happen. It took me on a roller coaster of emotions and broke me. It was beautifully written and while they all might not be the most appealing characters to start, I really felt connected to them in the end.

[K-BRC · Rating 5 out of 5]

This tale will put your heart through the wringer. But it will begin a healing process. I highly recommend you hop on this emotional roller coaster. Be sure to read all three together for the full journey. A five-star series.

[Emily Fantis · Rating 5 out of 5]

From start to finish with all three books they completely wrapped me up. I truly found them to be a masterpiece. Such an emotional journey with epic love and loss. Funny bits and warm touching bits. To truly immerse myself in a book, to feel the wind and hear the sounds was absolutely amazing!!!

[Kathy Davie · Rating 3 out of 5]

It's coming up on Mardi Gras in this third and last installment in the In Moonlight and Memories contemporary romance series that is revolving around three friends in New Orleans who are reaffirming and re-examining their relationships.

This eARC was sent to me by the author and Limerence Publications LLC for an honest review.

My Take
It's all about love, friendship, and sacrifice. In this third installment, we finally get to the truth of Dean's death. And it's not what I (nor Maggie) was expecting to hear. The truth of Cash's Plan also comes out. I should've known...

The series is primarily character-driven, focusing on Maggie, Cash, and Luc, and Walker uses third person triple protagonist point-of-view with these three giving their perspectives in alternating chapters, as the three of them struggle with their feelings. Maggie wants everything sweet and light for and with Luc and Cash. Cash wants his Plan to succeed even as he hates the idea of it. Luc...Luc is finally deciding he has worth. I felt so sorry for Luc with Maggie jerking him back and forth.

And it's this that makes me crazy as their emotions zigzag all over the place. Cash only makes things worse with his own introspection as well as the fact that...He. Never. Learns. WTF?? Yet again, he turns his back on his "dad".

The prose is to the point, but it's a slow pace with a lot of whining going on amongst the three. Luc's thoughts hurt the most. Maggie's make me want to hit her over the head. And Cash's? He makes me angry and yet so sad.

It's a time of peacemaking and clearing-up. Vee and Maggie. Maggie and Luc. Maggie and Cash. Cash with Luc. I did find it interesting that Cash finally realizes what Luc has been going through for so many years. And it's a tricky line Walker threads, keeping us wondering who will get Maggie in the end or if they both will. Auntie June chimes in with some advice for Maggie, based on her own past.

I do agree with Maggie about how little we care about the men and women who fight for our country. How is it that we send people to fight to keep all of us free and safe, but we don't care about them when they come back, torn up in limb and mind?

That funeral! Lol, it certainly was perfect...if ya gotta have one, and in New Orleans they are unique. As are a few myths Walker includes from the vampire brides shuttered into the convent to Jacques St Germain actually being Comte de Saint German. Ties right in with New Orleans being "the melting pot that other places in America only claim to be".

I'm with Cash: quality over quantity. And the way the ending comes together will make you cry...or you ain't right! There is so much that Walker finally lets loose, summing their lives up... I gotta find some Kleenex...

Do not skip Chapter Ninety-two. It's beautiful with a run of paragraphs that I'm thinking of printing out and putting on my bathroom mirror.

The Story
It's self-defense, but New Orleans isn't known for its fairness, which leaves Maggie on her own when she discovers Cash bleeding out in his house.

The Characters
Magnolia "Maggie" May Carter thinks she's still in love with Cash and maybe in love with Luc, her best friends. Yard is her three-legged dog. Leonard and Sheldon are her cats. Auntie June and Aunt Bea are actually Maggie's great-aunts who took her and Violet "Vee" Carter, her sister, in when their parents died. "Good Time" Jack Goudeau had been Auntie June's husband. Joseph Chatelain had been the love of Bea's life.

Jean-Pierre Marchand, a musician and neighbor, is Maggie's gay best friend while Eva Bell is her best girl friend. More friends include Lauren and her little sister, Kelsy.

Former-Master Sergeant (and Green Beret) Lucien “Luc” Dubois has been in love with Maggie since high school while Cash is closer than a brother. His very supportive mom, Helene Dubois, has her own salon in Shreveport.

Sergeant Cassius "Cash" Armstrong was wounded in Afghanistan and the pain is relentless. The corrupt and brutal Richard Armstrong is Cash's sperm donor; Cash refuses to grant him the title of father. Big Joe Armstrong is Cash's grandfather, the man from whom Richard learned to use his fists.

Bon Temps Rouler is…
…the bar Maggie bought with her parents' life insurance money. Chrissy and Gus are her bartenders. "Royal Earl" Greene is one of Maggie's regulars.

New Orleans PD
The too-totally corrupt Superintendent George Sullivan has been blackmailing people to stay in his position. Officer Florer is one of Sullivan's lackeys.

Broussard is the district attorney. David Abelman is Luc's lawyer. Gregory Allen Toussain, Esq, is Cash's lawyer. Dr Beckett is Cash's primary doctor for his head wound. Dr Sean Stevens is head of neurology at Johns Hopkins.

Braxton Academy was…
…the high school they all attended. Megan Jones threw a Halloween party. Dean Sullivan, George's son, disappeared years ago.

Rouses is the local grocery store. The homeless Maggie knows from the soup kitchen include Shortie, Doris, and Mr and Mrs Porto. Mr Emerson is a longtime French Quarter resident. His wife doesn't like Royal Earl. Mr and Mrs Monroe are the neighbors Maggie sometimes "borrows" from. The Fly is a park. Scarlet has her own CPA firm. Peter works at M.S. Rau Antiques, which is more of a museum than an antique store. Freddy Four Fingers is one of New Orleans' favorite trumpeters. Jean-Pierre's uncle Etienne does like his snipe. I never knew it was the hunt that was the joke... Harry is a mule. Mr Cormier may have a business proposition for Luc and Cash. Lucille Kidder is the biggest flirt in New Orleans, and she's not seeing Brett Davies anymore. Jasmine and Pam are nurses. Sergeant Wiley had been Cash's and Luc's drill sergeant.

It's Mardi Gras and the Krewes are out.

The Cover and Title
The cover repeats the pastel bayou at sunset with its dark silhouette of the trees in the background, purple clouds just above those trees, sliding into oranges, pale pinks, and sky blue with a patchy full moon on the left, and all of it mirrored in the water in which the silhouette of a man is standing, his arms upraised and spread, his right thumb touching the moon. It makes me think of Luc, his arms out to embrace his desires, to give thanks for what he has. All the text is in white, starting with an epigraph at the top while the series information is in an uneven script crossing the man's body with white sparkling stars scattered on his torso. Below that is the title in a sans-serif with an info blurb below that and the author's name at the bottom.

The title makes it easy to know where it falls in the overall book, even if it is quite unimaginative: Volume Three.

[Misty · Rating 5 out of 5]

In the third book of this trilogy, who knew that we were going to be so completely heartbroken by the turn of events. In the end we see how truly selfless and how much love Cash has for Maggie and Luc. I did not expect the need to go find tissues. This was such an amazing ending/conclusion for the trilogy and it shows the talent of Julie Ann Walker and her ability to create such amazing characters. All I've got is WOW and thank you for sharing such a heartbreaking story with your readers. The emotions are so raw and real that you feel what the characters are feeling and is something you don't expect.

Received ARC in exchange for honest voluntary review.

[Karen · Rating 5 out of 5]

Beautifully tragic!

A beautifully tragic love story that will leave you raw and in tears.

Cassius Clay Armstrong is a young man who is battling with his mind and his heart to give Magnolia May Carter the life she deserves, even if she is not aware that it’s also the life that she wants. Cassius “Cash” strolled into Magnolia “Maggie’s” life when she was but 15 and his heart found her and wouldn’t let go, but life has a way of tricking you sometimes. He knew that he was not good enough for her and he was also a young man who carried shame for his home life. He didn’t want Maggie to know that his father was a terrible man who had no love for him.

Magnolia May Carter was a young girl who had no felt alone in her world, until one boy found her in the library and helped her realize that life could continue even with the heartache that she was carrying around. At 14 Maggie thought that no cared, and she was so lonely and depressed that life had no meaning any longer, until Lucien Dubois walks into the library and finds her in the Harry Potter section. The find that they have a lot in common and their friendship starts strong and easy.

Lucien Dubois is the outcast of their school and always being bullied by the kids at school. He found peace when he was in the library, writing poetry, or playing his guitar and making music. A humble young man who lost his father at a young age, raised by his mom in the bayou, who worked hard so that she and Luc could survive. When his mother takes up with the Mayor of New Orleans and becomes the talk of the town due to a man who will go to any length to get what he wants. He is a man in power and uses that power to keep others under his thumb.

This is a story of life, love, loss, and tragedy. The characters are vulnerable, raw, and colorful. My favorite quote of all the books is from Cash in the final chapter, “A story of friendship and sacrifice and redemption and love. I don’t suppose most folks could ask for more than that.” This sums up the story completely for me. I’ve read Julie Ann Walker’s Black Knights Inc., series and loved them. I found this story to be so different from that series but loved it just as much. I give this story 5-stars and suggest you one-click this story and read it.

[Jez · Rating 5 out of 5]

I was given all three volumes in exchange for an honest review. This review is for all three volumes because there is no way you can read Volume 1 and stop. This book pulls at your heart strings and then kicks you in the gut. Its been a long time since I've read a book that made me cry with tears rolling down my cheeks but this one definitely did it. This is the story of a love triangle....that isn't.

The story itself takes place in New Orleans which truly becomes a fourth character in the story (and if you know anything about NoLa you know that is not unusual). Julie Ann Walker's previous stories have been full of tough military men and the suspense/mystery of who is the bad guy. Although this story doesn't fit into that mold on first glance, it still contains a great deal of suspense - trying to figure out what is going on from multiple aspects of the story.

The story centers around Cash, Maggie and Luc. The three met as teenagers and seemed to form an unbreakable bond. But for reasons unclear to Maggie Cash and Luc effectively disappear, running off to join the military. And then all of a sudden they are back. We are brought into the stories of the tragedies of each life (that we all experience in one way or another) and the mystery of what did really did happen. Then there is the mystery of what is happening now. You are trying to tie everything up in a pretty bow and instead there are a bunch of knots. You are easily wrapped up in the story that there is only one choice - to finish all three volumes. The emotions (and crying) I felt as Walker wrapped up this story were rough, raw and yet oh so beautiful. And right....and complete. Don't miss out on this epic saga of love, loss and life!

[Alisa Forpahl · Rating 5 out of 5]

OMG so damn good!!! I love this author so I was completely baffled why I was not hooked on book 1 but I kept on because as I stated I love Julie Ann Walkers books, book 2 got me more involved and book 3 almost broke me. The emotion is .... Maggie, Luc and Cash are friends and more. Maggie and Cash are sweethearts and Luc is their best friend. Cash and Luc leave Maggie and enter the military. There are a whole lot of reasons that we dont get until book 2ish. Maggie and Luc experience a tragic event together at prom when Cash sends Luc in his place. Flash forward and Cash is discharged from the military for an injury and Luc retires as well. They move back home and Cash has a plan to win Maggie back. Cash is dealing with a TBI and other issues and is self-medicating with Gentleman Jack (which pisses us off to no end- he in essensce becomes a functioning alcoholic) Luc, Cash and Maggie are confronted by an old nemesis' (sheriff- who has a grudge and is a power manipulator) and Cash's father (sperm donor- or abusive jack wagon we later discover) The trio live life, explore New Orleans and help Cash with his house rehab project- and the win back Maggies' love project. Cash struggles and Luc and Maggie have to cope. Eventually the trio will become a duo and the way that happens will make you bawl your eye out. I really love all of Julie Ann Walker's books. I really struggled reading book 1 and 2 but book 3 OMG. After reading book 3 the build up in books 1 and 2 make way more sense. The emotions, the passion, the pain and the love are incendiary. They will make you laugh, make you cheer for 1 at the same time wondering why you aren't cheering for the other, it will make you realize that you cannot take things on face value. That there are deep currents in everyone and that acceptance and love can work wonders. That life will go on- love and acceptance and above all the family you create, love and tend to can heal and bring love- whether its what you want but rather what you need. In the end I LOVED the series. I will wait awhile then do a re-read.

[Tami L West · Rating 5 out of 5]

I have to start by saying that I LOVE Julie Ann Walker's writing. I've devoured her Black Knights & Deep Six series & anxiously awaited each new installment. That being said, "In Moonlight and Memories" is nothing like those action-packed books but because of what an amazing writer she is, I was going through Walker withdrawals & I was anxious to get my hands on these books. They did not disappoint.

Though in three volumes, "In Moonlight and Memories" is really one continuous story of the love & friendship and highs & lows, between three friends, Maggie May, Cash & Luc. Though they are the main characters, you can't dismiss the fact the Ms. Walker has introduced a fourth character — New Orleans. She vividly captures the idiosyncrasies of that most unique of all American cities. It's New Orleans that sets the gentle, unhurried pace of the story, a story where the details matter. Unlike most books, the setting is important. The characters were shaped by the culture & geographic location of New Orleans so their actions & reactions are not so much predictable but understandable in that context.

I won't share the details of this epic story because you honestly need to read it for yourself. Knowing what will happen will make some readers impatient with the story‘s pace but the pace is important. It allows you to really feel what the characters are experiencing. The emotions you'll experience are the highs & lows of a roller coaster but a slow-moving one with beautiful scenery along the way. Carve out plenty of time to enjoy the ride. This is one you don't want to rush.

[Viktoria Hergovich · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a review for the trilogy In Moonlight and Memories (not for each Volume).
I’m a big fan of all books written by Julie Ann Walker, but when this trilogy came out, I was skeptical.
Why you ask? First, usually I avoid books with cliffhangers and second, I usually can’t stand a love triangle. But what they said, was right: Do not stop until you finish! 
Maggie, Cash and Luc – what a trio. Maggie and Luc were friends in high school, while Maggie and Cash were high school sweethearts. Maggie was the girl, who lost her parents way too early. Luc was the poetic guy and Cash a kind of a rebel. Together they go through thick and thin – until prom night – when Cash left Maggie and took their friend with him.
Ten years later, the boys are back in town and Cash has one hell of a plan.
Every chapter is told by one of the three characters, so it took me a while to adapt. This story is something you wouldn’t have known by Julie Ann Walker, but I’m sure, in the end you’ll love it!
Volume II took me on an emotional rollercoaster. Sometimes I was banned by pages and sometimes I thought I couldn’t keep up with this love triangle. I felt so torn – just like Maggie.
The last book in the triology was really a pageturner. I laughed and cried ugly tears. Oh, but they were worth it. In Moonlight and Memories is a saga you will keep in mind forever. Wonderfully written!

I was provided with an advanced readers copy by the author.

[Shelley C · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wow, I’m blown away❣️

It’s funny when you read certain genres of books by certain authors you have certain expectations. When I first saw these books in an email, I really wanted to get stuck into them but I was worried because after reading Black Knights so religiously would I enjoy this particular story? Right now, I’m blown away (and sniffling because yes I ugly cried for the last half hour😭) but this book will be one that forever stays in my memories and I know I will remember for a long time to come😍 I can certainly say that Julie is a master story spinner and I can’t wait to read more of her books 📚

Maggie, Cash and Luc have all been friends for years and after the boys disappeared and joined the military a decade ago, they are now back in New Orleans to stay. Friendships aplenty in these three volumes and laughs galore amongst them. These characters are absolutely amazing and I feel as though I was with them all through their various journeys and I felt their emotions as if I was seeing the events through their eyes 👀 I’m sorry to see it end but they will all live on in my memories😍

Thank you Julie for allowing me into this world you’ve created and I willingly leave my honest review for this epic story💕

[JKAF · Rating 5 out of 5]

Hang onto your socks for the finale!
Warning please have a tissue box handy!!!
Things aren't always what they seem especially with these 3 characters!

Possible SPOILERS








































Cash is getting worse not better and he's keeping a MAJOR secret from his friends but according to him it's for their own good...Cash needs the "plan" to work but it's slow going and things might need a nudge..
Between Cash ending up in the hospital and Luc being arrested Maggie is handling all the stress fairly well considering..
It's one step forward and several steps back with Luc and Maggie but all Luc wants is for Maggie to choose him...is that so hard??
The cottage is finished so the group heads out to celebrate but the noise is unbearable for Cash luckily he is able to tough it out to the end...that is until he sees her unfortunately though his mom is dead and that means he is seeing things. When Cash starts hallucinating he knows it's not good but with the addition of stars it's worse!
At the hospital Maggie and Luc learn the full hard truth about Cash's situation and it's grim!