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Love in Chaos #2
The Aftermath
According to Riley Mae Floss, life is a ten-page menu of possibilities. As the owner of a cupcake shop in small-town Missouri, she thrives on candies and rainbows and spreading joy every chance she gets. Even her hair is the color of bubble gum. Life is just the way she likes it, so why would she want anything to change now?
But when a tornado rips into Riley Mae’s southern town and destroys nearly everything in its path, her happy little life changes in less than forty-two seconds. Buildings gone. Homes carried away. People missing or even dead. Her bakery a shell of what it once was; also her life. Riley Mae’s picture-perfect world is shattered, and everyone she cares about has been hurt in the process.
According to insurance adjuster Chad Gamble, life always works out exactly the way it’s supposed to…for other people. As for him, life is a bit of a crapfest—one where he never wins the prize, makes the starting team, or gets the girl. He’s straight-laced, suit-and-tie, all-business, and sees the world for the color it is: muted gray with a little black around the edges.
So when Chad Gamble walks into Riley Mae’s ruined bakery to “assess the damages”—his words, not hers—he has no intention of getting bogged down by sentimental nonsense. Sparks immediately start to fly, and not the good kind. Who does this pushy, pink-haired chick think she is, treating him like an outsider when all he came to do was help? He can’t figure out why the locals like her so much.
Or worse, why he can’t stop thinking about her.
But when a tornado rips into Riley Mae’s southern town and destroys nearly everything in its path, her happy little life changes in less than forty-two seconds. Buildings gone. Homes carried away. People missing or even dead. Her bakery a shell of what it once was; also her life. Riley Mae’s picture-perfect world is shattered, and everyone she cares about has been hurt in the process.
According to insurance adjuster Chad Gamble, life always works out exactly the way it’s supposed to…for other people. As for him, life is a bit of a crapfest—one where he never wins the prize, makes the starting team, or gets the girl. He’s straight-laced, suit-and-tie, all-business, and sees the world for the color it is: muted gray with a little black around the edges.
So when Chad Gamble walks into Riley Mae’s ruined bakery to “assess the damages”—his words, not hers—he has no intention of getting bogged down by sentimental nonsense. Sparks immediately start to fly, and not the good kind. Who does this pushy, pink-haired chick think she is, treating him like an outsider when all he came to do was help? He can’t figure out why the locals like her so much.
Or worse, why he can’t stop thinking about her.
182 pages, Kindle Edition
First published September 1, 2019
52 people are currently reading
105 people want to read
About the author
Amy Matayo
26 books502 followersAmy Matayo is an award winning author of The Wedding Game, Love Gone Wild, Sway, In Tune With Love, A Painted Summer, and The End of the World. She graduated with barely passing grades from John Brown University with a degree in Journalism. But don't feel sorry for her--she's super proud of that degree and all the ways she hasn't put it to good use.
She laughs often, cries easily, feels deeply, and loves hard. She lives in Arkansas with her husband and four kids and is working on her next novel.
www.amymatayo
Twitter: @amymatayo
Instagram: @amymatayo.author
Facebook: www.facebook.com/amymatayo
She laughs often, cries easily, feels deeply, and loves hard. She lives in Arkansas with her husband and four kids and is working on her next novel.
www.amymatayo
Twitter: @amymatayo
Instagram: @amymatayo.author
Facebook: www.facebook.com/amymatayo
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 58 reviews
September 13, 2019
Riley Mae hasn't been handed the best cards in life, but she's sweet to the core and I loved the descriptions of her creative cupcakes at her bakery. This sugar-laden world came to a screeching halt when a massive tornado rips through town and I must say, I was chilled to the bone. Matayo does a great job of describing the fallout and I was swirled away and transported smack in the middle of Springfield, MO. My sister doesn't live far from there and I found myself getting upset, thinking about what my sister must be facing, only to realize--this is just a book! But it was that realistic
As an insurance man, Chad follows disaster, but the trail of help, hope, and light he leaves behind makes him one super amazing man! He goes above and beyond with his job responsibilities and his personality makes him perfect to diffuse any situation...except for those involving Riley Mae...because of his awkward compliments.
You'd think with all the devastation around, there would be no time for sparks, but that's completely wrong. A complete, yet subtle, attraction is fueled with good intentions, misunderstandings, a darling little girl, and lots and lots of cupcakes.
Even though there are some serious situations the characters find themselves in, the goodness, selflessness, and light radiating through these pages warmed my heart and slapped a smile on my face.
PS Can Teddy's story be next?
Content: mild romance with some light innuendo; mild-moderate moments of peril, danger, violence; mild+ language (mostly at the beginning)
*I received a complimentary copy from the publisher. All opinions expressed are my own and were voluntarily given.*
As an insurance man, Chad follows disaster, but the trail of help, hope, and light he leaves behind makes him one super amazing man! He goes above and beyond with his job responsibilities and his personality makes him perfect to diffuse any situation...except for those involving Riley Mae...because of his awkward compliments.
You'd think with all the devastation around, there would be no time for sparks, but that's completely wrong. A complete, yet subtle, attraction is fueled with good intentions, misunderstandings, a darling little girl, and lots and lots of cupcakes.
Even though there are some serious situations the characters find themselves in, the goodness, selflessness, and light radiating through these pages warmed my heart and slapped a smile on my face.
PS Can Teddy's story be next?
Content: mild romance with some light innuendo; mild-moderate moments of peril, danger, violence; mild+ language (mostly at the beginning)
*I received a complimentary copy from the publisher. All opinions expressed are my own and were voluntarily given.*
September 12, 2019
Wa-hoo! I love reading books by Amy Matayo! It is always so exciting when I sit down and get to open to that first page that will start me on a roller coaster of emotions with characters I will grow to love.
This book was so good. So full of grit and charm. There is tragedy and adversity with struggle around every turn. It's in those moments of struggle, when things seem to be at their worst, that the core of who we are really emerges. Riley is, at her core, generous and compassionate. She sees human need and gives of herself, whatever she can, to fill those empty places even when she is breaking apart too. I absolutely loved her.
"Rescuing people isn't always about pulling them from the depths. Sometimes it's about being there, being present, letting someone know you care without words or platitudes or even heroic acts of courage. Sometimes the most courageous thing you can do is just listen without walking away."
And Chad? He really is a man who shows up. Whatever the motivating factor, he shows up and acts like a man. A good man. Yes, please.
I loved the sparks. I loved the cupcakes. I loved the sense of triumph in tragedy. I loved seeing characters from the previous book in this series. I loved the love. The growing, palpable love. 💙💙 I was so invested, from beginning to end.
This book was so good. So full of grit and charm. There is tragedy and adversity with struggle around every turn. It's in those moments of struggle, when things seem to be at their worst, that the core of who we are really emerges. Riley is, at her core, generous and compassionate. She sees human need and gives of herself, whatever she can, to fill those empty places even when she is breaking apart too. I absolutely loved her.
"Rescuing people isn't always about pulling them from the depths. Sometimes it's about being there, being present, letting someone know you care without words or platitudes or even heroic acts of courage. Sometimes the most courageous thing you can do is just listen without walking away."
And Chad? He really is a man who shows up. Whatever the motivating factor, he shows up and acts like a man. A good man. Yes, please.
I loved the sparks. I loved the cupcakes. I loved the sense of triumph in tragedy. I loved seeing characters from the previous book in this series. I loved the love. The growing, palpable love. 💙💙 I was so invested, from beginning to end.
September 12, 2019
With the second story in Amy Matayo’s “Love in Chaos” series, The Aftermath tackles natural disasters, family baggage, dreams and purpose, and a romance in the chaos that ensues. This novel portrays an honest and realistic story of how life can change in an instant and be incredibly hard…. and how it can also be filled with joy, filled with people who continue to show up and care about you. I greatly appreciate its theme and message of how the past doesn’t have the final say. (And YAY for a story setting that’s close to me in real life! Springfield, MO!)
Did I mention there are CUPCAKES!? Cupcakes and a bakery that brings a community together. Amy Matayo gets it RIGHT when it comes to the hard behind-the-scenes work of such an endeavor (I’m a baker myself). And I really, really loved how scars are used as a metaphor for Riley. They mark pain and hard things, but they also heal and fade with time (or in Riley’s case, with bandaging from an, ahem, attractive “new friend” 😉 ) In the middle of all the sweet sugar, a sweet romance unfolds that finds the characters vulnerable and sharing their aches.
Once again, I appreciate how Amy Matayo’s stories absolutely cannot be categorized or put in a box. The lighthearted moments strike a contrast with the grit and emotion of Riley and Chad as they learn and grow through the aftermath of devastation. I recommend it to fans of (clean) new adult and inspirational fiction alike!
Thank you to the author for the advance review copy. This is my honest review.
Did I mention there are CUPCAKES!? Cupcakes and a bakery that brings a community together. Amy Matayo gets it RIGHT when it comes to the hard behind-the-scenes work of such an endeavor (I’m a baker myself). And I really, really loved how scars are used as a metaphor for Riley. They mark pain and hard things, but they also heal and fade with time (or in Riley’s case, with bandaging from an, ahem, attractive “new friend” 😉 ) In the middle of all the sweet sugar, a sweet romance unfolds that finds the characters vulnerable and sharing their aches.
Once again, I appreciate how Amy Matayo’s stories absolutely cannot be categorized or put in a box. The lighthearted moments strike a contrast with the grit and emotion of Riley and Chad as they learn and grow through the aftermath of devastation. I recommend it to fans of (clean) new adult and inspirational fiction alike!
Thank you to the author for the advance review copy. This is my honest review.
July 15, 2020
The first book in this series had a kind of serious undertone, I suppose, since the characters were fighting for their lives on a deserted island. But since it was a deserted island, it was also kind of escapist. Islands are good places to be. So, anyway, I went into this book expecting a lighter tone.
A lighter tone is not what I got. These aren't spoilers, since it happens in the first couple of chapters, but- in the first couple chapters, someone dies, someone goes missing, someone gets severely injured, and someone loses their home and livelihood!!!
So, if you want a thought-provoking story about people trying not merely survive, but pick up the pieces of life after a disaster, this is it.
Review first published on my blog: https://agencyofbooksandspies.blogspo...
A lighter tone is not what I got. These aren't spoilers, since it happens in the first couple of chapters, but- in the first couple chapters, someone dies, someone goes missing, someone gets severely injured, and someone loses their home and livelihood!!!
So, if you want a thought-provoking story about people trying not merely survive, but pick up the pieces of life after a disaster, this is it.
Review first published on my blog: https://agencyofbooksandspies.blogspo...
September 27, 2019
There's a special bond that can form between people who have been through a disaster or traumatic event together. Chad doesn't show up until immediately after the tornado, and it's almost as if he's seeking that feeling in his volunteering and work. He and Riley form that bond as an unlikely pair as they share in helping the people and community recover. With large catastrophes the statistics can sometimes lose meaning, but Riley and Chad find purpose in "rescuing" one person at a time, and to those individuals their efforts mean the world. I loved how the random meeting between Chad and Riley develops into friendship and deepens throughout the story, despite their initial hang-ups. The narration of their inner reflections is more thoughtful and profound than your usual contemporary romance, and this is something I love about this author's writing style.
(I received a complimentary copy of the book; all opinions in this review are my own)
(I received a complimentary copy of the book; all opinions in this review are my own)
March 22, 2020
Whew, so good!
And completely appropriate for the state of the chaos we’re living in March 2020. I haven’t highlighted a book this much in forever. Loved it so much!
And completely appropriate for the state of the chaos we’re living in March 2020. I haven’t highlighted a book this much in forever. Loved it so much!
January 13, 2020
This is a romance book, and romance isn’t my usual genre, but after reading most of this in one sitting, I’m so glad I have a friend who consistently writes such sweet, positive romances, and I think you will love them too, whether or not you normally read romances!
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This story is about a tornado that hits a small town and how it changes the lives of Riley Mae Floss and Chad Gamble (aren’t those great names?!). The adorable pink-haired Riley owns a bakery so I spent a lot of this novel hungry for cupcakes, and Chad is just charming and lovable from the start.
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The Aftermath is actually part of the “Love in Chaos” series Amy Matayo is writing, and I really enjoyed how she ties the three books together. If you want to read the whole series, they are all on Amazon: The Waves, The Aftermath, and The Last Shot.
•
This story is about a tornado that hits a small town and how it changes the lives of Riley Mae Floss and Chad Gamble (aren’t those great names?!). The adorable pink-haired Riley owns a bakery so I spent a lot of this novel hungry for cupcakes, and Chad is just charming and lovable from the start.
•
The Aftermath is actually part of the “Love in Chaos” series Amy Matayo is writing, and I really enjoyed how she ties the three books together. If you want to read the whole series, they are all on Amazon: The Waves, The Aftermath, and The Last Shot.
September 12, 2019
Amy Matayo has done it again with The Aftermath, the second in her Love in Chaos series.
Riley Mae likes what she's doing. She gets the chance to spread a little sunshine with her cupcakes and goodies in Springfield, Missouri. She likes adding personal touches for each of her customers, and she faces the world with a smile on her face and her hair dyed bubble-gum pink. All that changes in an instant when her town is devastated by a tornado.
Chad Gamble is the insurance adjuster who comes into town to take stock of the damages. He's used to living in his brother Liam's shadow and seeing good things happen...to other people. He never gets the girl or wins the prize, he just tries to do the right thing.
Neither of them know it, but they both carry a lot of hurt due to their life experiences. The tornado and its aftermath bring them together, and as sometimes happens, sparks fly in unexpected places. Can they work through the baggage of the past, pain inflicted on them by others, to find their own happy ending?
This book, y'all. Romance is not my normal jam. I'm a sci-fi/fantasy/mystery girl. But I enjoyed The Waves so much, I jumped at the chance to read an early copy of The Aftermath. And it does not disappoint. Ms. Matayo writes real, relatable characters that seem like people you could know in real life. They aren't perfect, they don't always say and do the right thing. They mess up, and they struggle to redeem themselves. You want to hug them, and you cheer for them, and you want to smack them. Ms. Matayo's words create a world that you become part of when you read her books.
And I can so relate to Riley Mae. When she says, "So many are hurt, and all I want to do is bake something"? YES, girl. I understand that desire to provide comfort through food. I love Riley Mae. I also like that we get to see more of Chad in this book. We first met him in The Waves, and he was kind of a whiny prat, not really very likable. If you've read The Waves, I think you'll understand (and like ) Chad a lot more after reading The Aftermath.
The Aftermath is a quick read, and a worthwhile one. I'm anxiously awaiting the next book in this series!
Disclaimer: I received a complimentary copy from the author. All opinions here are mine, and I don't say nice things about books I don't like.
Riley Mae likes what she's doing. She gets the chance to spread a little sunshine with her cupcakes and goodies in Springfield, Missouri. She likes adding personal touches for each of her customers, and she faces the world with a smile on her face and her hair dyed bubble-gum pink. All that changes in an instant when her town is devastated by a tornado.
Chad Gamble is the insurance adjuster who comes into town to take stock of the damages. He's used to living in his brother Liam's shadow and seeing good things happen...to other people. He never gets the girl or wins the prize, he just tries to do the right thing.
Neither of them know it, but they both carry a lot of hurt due to their life experiences. The tornado and its aftermath bring them together, and as sometimes happens, sparks fly in unexpected places. Can they work through the baggage of the past, pain inflicted on them by others, to find their own happy ending?
This book, y'all. Romance is not my normal jam. I'm a sci-fi/fantasy/mystery girl. But I enjoyed The Waves so much, I jumped at the chance to read an early copy of The Aftermath. And it does not disappoint. Ms. Matayo writes real, relatable characters that seem like people you could know in real life. They aren't perfect, they don't always say and do the right thing. They mess up, and they struggle to redeem themselves. You want to hug them, and you cheer for them, and you want to smack them. Ms. Matayo's words create a world that you become part of when you read her books.
And I can so relate to Riley Mae. When she says, "So many are hurt, and all I want to do is bake something"? YES, girl. I understand that desire to provide comfort through food. I love Riley Mae. I also like that we get to see more of Chad in this book. We first met him in The Waves, and he was kind of a whiny prat, not really very likable. If you've read The Waves, I think you'll understand (and like ) Chad a lot more after reading The Aftermath.
The Aftermath is a quick read, and a worthwhile one. I'm anxiously awaiting the next book in this series!
Disclaimer: I received a complimentary copy from the author. All opinions here are mine, and I don't say nice things about books I don't like.
September 12, 2019
Amy Matayo is quickly becoming a favorite author of mine! Her well-shaped characters and engaging storylines keep me coming back for more. Today, the second book in Matayo’s Love in Chaos series released.
The Aftermath continues the storyline of Chad Gamble (whom we met in book #1, The Waves). Chad hears about a tornado that rips through a small town in Missouri and hops on a plane to see how he can help. In his quest to help the destroyed town get back on its feet, Chad meets cupcake bakery owner Riley Mae Floss.
Riley Mae’s shop was destroyed in the tornado, and Chad, in his capacity as an insurance adjuster, offers to help. These two mix like oil in water throughout the story. However, they both work in their own ways to help this small Missouri town get back on its’ feet. As they both try to help, they continue to be drawn towards each other.
I absolutely loved reading Riley Mae and Chad’s story. I could see the characters in my mind’s eye as I read. With real emotion and an impactful storyline, The Aftermath shares a meaningful story about how people react to disasters, and how they can rebuild their lives in spite of them. Both Chad and Riley Mae have to learn to set aside past experiences that have greatly shaped how they think now. As they change their own thought patterns, they are drawn to one another, and the community they are serving.
Once I started reading The Aftermath, I couldn’t put it down!
I received a copy of this book from the author. This review is my own, honest opinion.
The Aftermath continues the storyline of Chad Gamble (whom we met in book #1, The Waves). Chad hears about a tornado that rips through a small town in Missouri and hops on a plane to see how he can help. In his quest to help the destroyed town get back on its feet, Chad meets cupcake bakery owner Riley Mae Floss.
Riley Mae’s shop was destroyed in the tornado, and Chad, in his capacity as an insurance adjuster, offers to help. These two mix like oil in water throughout the story. However, they both work in their own ways to help this small Missouri town get back on its’ feet. As they both try to help, they continue to be drawn towards each other.
I absolutely loved reading Riley Mae and Chad’s story. I could see the characters in my mind’s eye as I read. With real emotion and an impactful storyline, The Aftermath shares a meaningful story about how people react to disasters, and how they can rebuild their lives in spite of them. Both Chad and Riley Mae have to learn to set aside past experiences that have greatly shaped how they think now. As they change their own thought patterns, they are drawn to one another, and the community they are serving.
Once I started reading The Aftermath, I couldn’t put it down!
I received a copy of this book from the author. This review is my own, honest opinion.
October 5, 2019
Ms. Matayo has done it again! I've been a long time fan of her books and this latest one, takes the cake. Or shall I say cupcake?! ;)
We briefly meet Chad in The Waves as Dillon's admirer. And I, for one, felt sorry for him pining away after a girl who wasn't interested. The Aftermath gives Chad a second chance at finding himself and finding love.
Riley Mae is no stranger to love and loss. Mostly loss, really. And as you read this incredible story of resilience, your heart will be in a constant battle of joy and blessing to grief and blessing. While reading, you will feel like Riley's heart is in tune with your own.
Maybe it's just me but I can totally relate to Riley on so many levels. I won't spoil it for you but encourage you to READ THIS BOOK!
My last point is really just a compliment on the humanity shared in this story. It's truly amazing how in the midst of chaos and ruin, charity, grace, and compassion can reign. I think in today's society, it's a rare thing to find and Ms. Matayo showcased it very well.
I hope you enjoy it as much as I did!
Note: note, I received an advanced copy from the publisher. All opinions are my own.
We briefly meet Chad in The Waves as Dillon's admirer. And I, for one, felt sorry for him pining away after a girl who wasn't interested. The Aftermath gives Chad a second chance at finding himself and finding love.
Riley Mae is no stranger to love and loss. Mostly loss, really. And as you read this incredible story of resilience, your heart will be in a constant battle of joy and blessing to grief and blessing. While reading, you will feel like Riley's heart is in tune with your own.
Maybe it's just me but I can totally relate to Riley on so many levels. I won't spoil it for you but encourage you to READ THIS BOOK!
My last point is really just a compliment on the humanity shared in this story. It's truly amazing how in the midst of chaos and ruin, charity, grace, and compassion can reign. I think in today's society, it's a rare thing to find and Ms. Matayo showcased it very well.
I hope you enjoy it as much as I did!
Note: note, I received an advanced copy from the publisher. All opinions are my own.
September 11, 2019
The Aftermath is a romance, but it really got me thinking about how fragile our lives are, how things can turn on a dime, and how we so easily presume a certain predictability and stability to life that has no firm basis in reality.
Chad was a great character. He didn't come off as the most likable guy in The Waves, and the author did a good job of allowing the reader to see how his personality developed and letting him acknowledge his own weaknesses and peculiarities. Riley and her men-can't-be-trusted baggage was a good match for him.
I expected a bit more drama between the main characters instead of the slow, steady burn delivered. In The Aftermath, the drama comes courtesy of the tornado that sets the story in motion - literally - and I think that's where the story shines.
Amy Matayo's books are always readable. That sounds like a backhanded compliment, but I mean it in the best way. The books flow - as this one does - with easy dialogue and seamless transitions. It's one of those harder-than-it-looks skills.
I'm looking forward to seeing where the next book, which presumably features country music superstar Teddy Hayes, takes us!
Chad was a great character. He didn't come off as the most likable guy in The Waves, and the author did a good job of allowing the reader to see how his personality developed and letting him acknowledge his own weaknesses and peculiarities. Riley and her men-can't-be-trusted baggage was a good match for him.
I expected a bit more drama between the main characters instead of the slow, steady burn delivered. In The Aftermath, the drama comes courtesy of the tornado that sets the story in motion - literally - and I think that's where the story shines.
Amy Matayo's books are always readable. That sounds like a backhanded compliment, but I mean it in the best way. The books flow - as this one does - with easy dialogue and seamless transitions. It's one of those harder-than-it-looks skills.
I'm looking forward to seeing where the next book, which presumably features country music superstar Teddy Hayes, takes us!
September 12, 2019
The Aftermath (Love In Chaos Book 2) is an absolute MUST read!! Amy Matayo is an expert at developing characters that are deep, realistic, and very quickly become like friends. I finished this in one sitting because I could not put it down. I had to know the rest of the story between Chad and Riley Mae! The incredible depth of feeling developed in these two characters and the others that survived the tornado is incredible. The community that binds together to make it through is inspiring. And, the hope that you are left with after reading is real. Matayo is a gifted author that has a magical way of mixing pain and hurt with hope and love to create a story that is relatable, but doesn't leave you in a pit of despair. The reader is left with the hope of love and friendship which in the end is greater than all. I am thankful to have been given and advance copy of The Aftermath. The opinions I share are all my own.
September 12, 2019
I love how Amy Matayo can write stories around the true life, hard circumstances. This is an amazing story of hard times and triumph with a bit of personal connection when you didnt even know you were looking.
I received and advanced reader copy of this book and was able to read before the full release. This book walks through the connection made between two people that have suffered in their lives before they ever met and how a Tornado ripped through a small town bringing them together unexpectedly. Will they each be able to learn from their pasts and move forward or is there just too much damage, are you ready to find out?
I received and advanced reader copy of this book and was able to read before the full release. This book walks through the connection made between two people that have suffered in their lives before they ever met and how a Tornado ripped through a small town bringing them together unexpectedly. Will they each be able to learn from their pasts and move forward or is there just too much damage, are you ready to find out?
September 12, 2019
Oh boy just when I thought The Waves had sucked me in and got my emotions all crazy! The Aftermath moves in like a crazy tornado and takes my heart on a sugar filled rush! I loved Riley and Chads story it was amazing to see the struggles of Riley’s life and how Chad came to her rescue. Another amazing book Amy Matayo has wrote where she grabs her readers right at the start and takes them on a sweet journey. Glad to have received this ARC be sure to grab your copy as soon as it comes out! You will LOVE it!! 🥰🎉
January 9, 2020
I wasn’t sure how a series was going to work after book 1, but Amy Matayo has crafted it beautifully. Her character development makes me want to be friends with the characters at the end of the book, and I was sad to see them go. Amy is such a gifted storyteller and has written a romance novel that’s not cheesy or gross; it’s truly beautiful. The situations and characters seem real and her word pictures make it easy to imagine every detail. You won’t regret picking up this book. I can’t wait to see what this author writes next. I received an advanced copy of this book for review.
September 10, 2019
Once again, Amy Matayo wrote a book that I could not put down! I loved the first book in this series, but, Chad was a little annoying in that book. So I was pleasantly surprised to see that she was able to turn him around in this book, without ignoring his faults from book 1. This is another must read from Amy. You don't need to read the first book to enjoy this one, but by all means read that one too. It is just as good!
I received an advance reader copy from the publisher. All opinions are my own.
I received an advance reader copy from the publisher. All opinions are my own.
September 12, 2019
I received an advance copy of this book. Amy Matayo does such a good job of drawing you into the story. I didn’t want to put the book down until I finished it. THE AFTERMATH is my new favorite of her books! Living near Tornado Alley, I appreciated her story of finding good people doing good deeds in times of tragedy and who doesn’t love some romance!
September 8, 2019
I was given an ARC of this book. I loved the first book in the series but The Aftermath was even better. I loved Riley and Chad and how their story played out. This was a book of overcoming trials and failures. What a great read!
March 22, 2020
Needs so much editing. Plot was meh and predictable.
April 17, 2020
I loved this book. Amy always writes incredible books. They are not without sorrow but move and breathe and just suck you in.
Riley is the most giving but damaged heroine and Chad is her perfect match.
I recommend it highly!
Riley is the most giving but damaged heroine and Chad is her perfect match.
I recommend it highly!
September 26, 2019
It’s not often I have the opportunity to read a book in one sitting these days. Truth be told, I didn’t really have that opportunity when I picked up this book either, but somehow the pages kept turning themselves (that’s the excuse I’m going with, anyway), and before I knew it, I’d finished the whole book. It’s not that this story had me on the edge of my seat; more that the writing and the characters so completely sucked me into the world of the story that I lost track of any reality outside of the one I was reading about until there weren’t any more pages to turn.
As always with Matayo's writing, I loved the characters’ voices—vibrant and unique, but still carrying that distinct Matayo flavour of wry self-deprecation, wit, and sass. But I also loved who Riley Mae and Chad were underneath all that. They didn’t have rosy childhoods—quite the opposite in some ways—but that has made their care for others all the more fierce, even as they guard their own hearts against the risk of being hurt again. And what better way to showcase that than in the aftermath of the tornado that ripped through Springfield?
The romance develops subtly and without much ceremony, but there’s a lot of heart behind it—and the occasional bit of cheeky innuendo, because Chad’s a guy, after all! But most of all it’s a story about how “Rescuing people isn’t always about pulling them from the depths. Sometimes it’s about being there, being present, letting someone know you care without words or platitudes or even heroic acts of courage.” And sometimes it’s about cupcakes. And keeping promises, and being seen and loved for who you are.
But that’s enough from me. Just give us Teddy Hayes’ story already!
I received a copy of this novel from the author. This has not influenced the content of my review, which is my honest and unbiased opinion.
As always with Matayo's writing, I loved the characters’ voices—vibrant and unique, but still carrying that distinct Matayo flavour of wry self-deprecation, wit, and sass. But I also loved who Riley Mae and Chad were underneath all that. They didn’t have rosy childhoods—quite the opposite in some ways—but that has made their care for others all the more fierce, even as they guard their own hearts against the risk of being hurt again. And what better way to showcase that than in the aftermath of the tornado that ripped through Springfield?
The romance develops subtly and without much ceremony, but there’s a lot of heart behind it—and the occasional bit of cheeky innuendo, because Chad’s a guy, after all! But most of all it’s a story about how “Rescuing people isn’t always about pulling them from the depths. Sometimes it’s about being there, being present, letting someone know you care without words or platitudes or even heroic acts of courage.” And sometimes it’s about cupcakes. And keeping promises, and being seen and loved for who you are.
But that’s enough from me. Just give us Teddy Hayes’ story already!
I received a copy of this novel from the author. This has not influenced the content of my review, which is my honest and unbiased opinion.
September 18, 2019
Have you ever read a book that both wrings you out emotionally? From tragedy with touches of humor and the glimpses of hope amid despair, The Aftermath was that book for me.
Riley Mae is so likable from the first pages of the book. She’s friendly, good-naturedly teasing her customers, employees, and grandmother. I just wanted to be her BFF. Then, in an instant, her world comes crumbling down.
Readers met Chad Gamble in The Waves but get to delve deeper into what he hides from the world behind is adoration of Dillon. He wants to make a different choice than he has in the past. He wants to matter.
Amy Matayo wraps truths within these pages. While our devastation may not be a blatant as Riley Mae’s, kindness and generosity matter. No matter what we are going through, someone else has lost more than me, is grieving deeper than me, or has fallen on harder times. There are moments of hope and light in the darkest of times. It’s up to us to grab onto them until the hard season passes.
Disclosure statement:
I receive complimentary books from publishers, publicists, and/or authors, including NetGalley. I am not required to write positive reviews. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255.
Riley Mae is so likable from the first pages of the book. She’s friendly, good-naturedly teasing her customers, employees, and grandmother. I just wanted to be her BFF. Then, in an instant, her world comes crumbling down.
Readers met Chad Gamble in The Waves but get to delve deeper into what he hides from the world behind is adoration of Dillon. He wants to make a different choice than he has in the past. He wants to matter.
Amy Matayo wraps truths within these pages. While our devastation may not be a blatant as Riley Mae’s, kindness and generosity matter. No matter what we are going through, someone else has lost more than me, is grieving deeper than me, or has fallen on harder times. There are moments of hope and light in the darkest of times. It’s up to us to grab onto them until the hard season passes.
Disclosure statement:
I receive complimentary books from publishers, publicists, and/or authors, including NetGalley. I am not required to write positive reviews. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255.
September 12, 2019
I say this a lot, and I mean it every time I do...but this time I'm saying it with a little more passion and emphasis than usual. This book had me at chapter one (and then two, and then three). Because that's when I felt it. The quiet before the storm, the chaos in the middle of it, and the depth of sadness after. I felt every word.
Throw in a cute little five-yr-old, a hip & snarky grandmother I'd like to adopt as my own, and two memorable characters--one of which, surprisingly, has a head of cotton candy-pink hair, and the other's a stuffed-shirt who's not afraid to get his hands dirty--and you've got a recipe for a sweet story with a hell of a lot of heart.
Watching Riley and Chad come into their own, both separately and then as a couple, was a gentle reminder that no matter what happens in life, it's important to embrace the here and now. The world needs to be reminded of that, from time to time. And what better way than through Matayo's raw description of a tornado's aftermath, witty dialogue exchanges, and a hefty helping of peanut butter and chocolate cupcakes?
Throw in a cute little five-yr-old, a hip & snarky grandmother I'd like to adopt as my own, and two memorable characters--one of which, surprisingly, has a head of cotton candy-pink hair, and the other's a stuffed-shirt who's not afraid to get his hands dirty--and you've got a recipe for a sweet story with a hell of a lot of heart.
Watching Riley and Chad come into their own, both separately and then as a couple, was a gentle reminder that no matter what happens in life, it's important to embrace the here and now. The world needs to be reminded of that, from time to time. And what better way than through Matayo's raw description of a tornado's aftermath, witty dialogue exchanges, and a hefty helping of peanut butter and chocolate cupcakes?
September 13, 2019
The Aftermath by Amy Matayo is book 2 in the Love in Chaos series. I absolutely adored book 1 in this series, The Waves. I had great anticipation for this book and was not disappointed! I love that this book picks up the characters from the last book, but it can still be read as a standalone novel. This book could not be more different from the first book in the series in its setting and circumstances. However, it is absolute chaos that throws lives into upheaval and that is exactly the same as the first book. I love the characters in this book, I love the community that is found in the midst of disaster. I think no on writes a love story quite like Ms Matayo. She writes great romance. Overall, I was absolutely amazed by this book and I highly recommend it. I eagerly anticipate the next book in this series!! I received a digital copy of this book from the author with no obligations. These opinions are entirely my own. I also purchased a copy.
September 12, 2019
So Ms. Matayo does a great job with creating stories that touch the heart. She does it again with The Aftermath. I think this is my favorite book of hers to date due to the kind, sincere hearts of the characters.
Riley is an amazing girl, who has been through numerous trials during her life. I love her heart that when in the midst of losing everything she puts her needs and agenda aside to serve and invest in others.
Chad is a sweet soul just looking to help where needed to overcome his past hurts.
When these 2 join together they are a force to make awesome impact!
Thank you Amy for writing this inspiring novel in a time when people need to show kindness.
"Sometimes the most courageous thing you can do is just listen without walking away."
Riley is an amazing girl, who has been through numerous trials during her life. I love her heart that when in the midst of losing everything she puts her needs and agenda aside to serve and invest in others.
Chad is a sweet soul just looking to help where needed to overcome his past hurts.
When these 2 join together they are a force to make awesome impact!
Thank you Amy for writing this inspiring novel in a time when people need to show kindness.
"Sometimes the most courageous thing you can do is just listen without walking away."
January 1, 2020
Romance, clean; series but stand alone; mild faith elements
More of 3.5 for me as a reader, but great characters, and fun to see characters from the first book with brief moments in this one. Heartfelt characters, honest hearts, and kindness in the midst of chaos and confusion. Great chemistry between the two main characters, and beautiful fall for them. Loved the way things came together for them in the end!
More of 3.5 for me as a reader, but great characters, and fun to see characters from the first book with brief moments in this one. Heartfelt characters, honest hearts, and kindness in the midst of chaos and confusion. Great chemistry between the two main characters, and beautiful fall for them. Loved the way things came together for them in the end!
September 19, 2019
I loved this second book in Amy Matayo's Love in Chaos series. The book was hard to put down! The characters were fun and you could really feel what they were feeling. And there's always that touch of humor she throws into all her books... worth the read, for sure!
September 12, 2019
Awesome book
Amy Matayo never fails to deliver. This was an awesome read of love and loss. I highly recommend it and believe you will not be disappointed.
Amy Matayo never fails to deliver. This was an awesome read of love and loss. I highly recommend it and believe you will not be disappointed.
January 15, 2020
Watch for a full review of this series on FaithfullyBookish.com! I'm loving these short, sassy, and sweetly spicy romance stories!
September 10, 2020
That cover totally sucked me in - so good! The storyline and characters were just okay, though. There is more chemistry in that cover than in the entire book. The writing was super wordy with long internal monologues. I prefer to come to understand characters through their interactions and behavior rather than through their thoughts, which spell everything out for me in great detail. For instance, if someone has a history of being a victim of verbal abuse from their father, then instead of having to read about them thinking about it constantly and doing therapy in their head about how it has affected them and blah, blah, blah, I would rather have it mentioned once, maybe twice, in a high impact way (in a conversation is more powerful than in thoughts) and I can make further connections about how it affects them. Too much repetition just gets boring. I had to skim some of the mental counseling sessions when they kept coming at me. I think this is what people mean when they say Show Me, Don't Tell Me. Also, Chad was attractive at the beginning but lost his allure when I had to listen to all his insecurities and goals to "turn over a new leaf" in his head.
Content:
Language - no swear words
Sex - no sex scenes or innuendo. a couple tame kisses.
Violence - none. some people get hurt in the tornado.
I read this on Kindle Unlimited
Content:
Language - no swear words
Sex - no sex scenes or innuendo. a couple tame kisses.
Violence - none. some people get hurt in the tornado.
I read this on Kindle Unlimited
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