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Second Chances #1
Always You
Lucas was all I ever wanted, but he was the man I could never have.
All we had was friendship and my silly hope for more.
When he left and took all of that with him, I moved on. Settled. I figured that happiness wasn't in the cards for me. Until, one night of drinks with an old "friend" gives me a hope I never expected, but don't know what to do with.
This time, I have the chance I always dreamed about—but I'm not free to take it.
***
Ten years ago, Samantha was only a friend, a sweet girl I never wanted to hurt.
Now, she's everything I want and nothing I can have.
She belongs with me, even if she's not really mine, and I can’t settle for anything less than all of her. Now that I’ve got a second chance, I'm grabbing it with both hands.
Why did it take so long to realize that it was Always You?
All we had was friendship and my silly hope for more.
When he left and took all of that with him, I moved on. Settled. I figured that happiness wasn't in the cards for me. Until, one night of drinks with an old "friend" gives me a hope I never expected, but don't know what to do with.
This time, I have the chance I always dreamed about—but I'm not free to take it.
***
Ten years ago, Samantha was only a friend, a sweet girl I never wanted to hurt.
Now, she's everything I want and nothing I can have.
She belongs with me, even if she's not really mine, and I can’t settle for anything less than all of her. Now that I’ve got a second chance, I'm grabbing it with both hands.
Why did it take so long to realize that it was Always You?
252 pages, Kindle Edition
First published March 24, 2015
623 people are currently reading
2832 people want to read
About the author
Stephanie Rose
30 books2,945 followersStephanie Rose is a badass New Yorker, a wife, a mother, and lover of all things chocolate. Most days you'll find her trying to avoid standing on discarded LEGO or deciding which book to read next. Her debut novel, Always You, released in 2015 and since then she's written several more—some of which will never see completion—and has ideas for hundreds to come.
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Displaying 1 - 29 of 290 reviews
March 19, 2015
4.5 Stars
A wonderfully engaging debut novel from Stephanie Rose that will pull at your heart strings and leave you in awe, of the power of love.
Sexy and meek, Samantha O'Rourke has had a crush on her best friend's cousin, Lucas Hunter, forever. Lusting after him throughout college was heartbreaking. Samantha's never had the courage to tell Lucas about her feelings. Lucas is now moving to California for a job and Samantha will never get the chance to express herself to Lucas. Leaving well enough alone, Samantha moves on but never lets go.
More than ten years later, Lucas returns to NY because of another job and he connects with Samantha. Samantha was always beautiful to Lucas. She is the girl that got away. The girl that would have wanted more, at a time when Lucas wanted to live life and wasn't ready for commitment. Returning home, Lucas is amazed at the sexy and meek young girl that has grown into a sassy, full of confidence woman. Even though Samantha is married with a cute little daughter, Bella, Lucas can't stop the feelings and raw emotions that overcome him when he is around her.
“I know I’m not supposed to think about you all day long. I know I’m not supposed to want to talk to you every minute of the day, or touch you, or kiss you. But, fuck—” Lucas
As Lucas and Samantha rekindle the easy going friendship they had in college, months fly by and they build a friendship that becomes unbreakable and a slow burning desire that is quickly becoming an inferno.
Samantha Christensen is leading an unhappy life. Her husband is a miserable fool, that thinks his wife and daughter are inconveniences to his "young boy" party lifestyle. Bella was introverted because her father always yelled at her and never had time for her. Always making it seem as if Bella was a problem. She didn't have a relationship with her father. When Lucas came into her life, gradually she became a boisterous little girl full of life and energy. Happy and delighted about every thing. Bella also took a piece of Lucas's heart.
As Samantha and Marc's marriage comes to an end, there is a clusterfuck of drama that ensues. Both Lucas and Samantha try their best to handle the situations as best as they can. It was such a very realistic story, the turmoil of an unhappy marriage and custody battle. Lucas was there every step of the way. Giving support and showing his undying and unwavering love for both Sam and especially, Bella. Lucas became both Sam and Bella's superhero. He saved them.
"Superheroes need a girl they can save, so she can save them right back."
*ARC provided on behalf of the author for an honest review* Thanks!!
A wonderfully engaging debut novel from Stephanie Rose that will pull at your heart strings and leave you in awe, of the power of love.
Sexy and meek, Samantha O'Rourke has had a crush on her best friend's cousin, Lucas Hunter, forever. Lusting after him throughout college was heartbreaking. Samantha's never had the courage to tell Lucas about her feelings. Lucas is now moving to California for a job and Samantha will never get the chance to express herself to Lucas. Leaving well enough alone, Samantha moves on but never lets go.
More than ten years later, Lucas returns to NY because of another job and he connects with Samantha. Samantha was always beautiful to Lucas. She is the girl that got away. The girl that would have wanted more, at a time when Lucas wanted to live life and wasn't ready for commitment. Returning home, Lucas is amazed at the sexy and meek young girl that has grown into a sassy, full of confidence woman. Even though Samantha is married with a cute little daughter, Bella, Lucas can't stop the feelings and raw emotions that overcome him when he is around her.
“I know I’m not supposed to think about you all day long. I know I’m not supposed to want to talk to you every minute of the day, or touch you, or kiss you. But, fuck—” Lucas
As Lucas and Samantha rekindle the easy going friendship they had in college, months fly by and they build a friendship that becomes unbreakable and a slow burning desire that is quickly becoming an inferno.
Samantha Christensen is leading an unhappy life. Her husband is a miserable fool, that thinks his wife and daughter are inconveniences to his "young boy" party lifestyle. Bella was introverted because her father always yelled at her and never had time for her. Always making it seem as if Bella was a problem. She didn't have a relationship with her father. When Lucas came into her life, gradually she became a boisterous little girl full of life and energy. Happy and delighted about every thing. Bella also took a piece of Lucas's heart.
As Samantha and Marc's marriage comes to an end, there is a clusterfuck of drama that ensues. Both Lucas and Samantha try their best to handle the situations as best as they can. It was such a very realistic story, the turmoil of an unhappy marriage and custody battle. Lucas was there every step of the way. Giving support and showing his undying and unwavering love for both Sam and especially, Bella. Lucas became both Sam and Bella's superhero. He saved them.
"Superheroes need a girl they can save, so she can save them right back."
*ARC provided on behalf of the author for an honest review* Thanks!!
July 22, 2016
A sweet, low angst romance with what some people would label as cheating, but not me. You can't cheat on a cheater!! End of.
Loved the epilogue and fabulous relationship Lucas had with Bella.
3.75 stars
Loved the epilogue and fabulous relationship Lucas had with Bella.
3.75 stars
July 9, 2021
I really didn't expect this at all but I actually enjoyed this book a lot and I read it in one day!
I haven't read many books with the single parent trope but, for the most part, I liked this one a lot. Lucas (H) and Samantha (h) were perfect for each other and Bella (Samantha's daughter from her marriage) was an adorable little kid. Lucas and Bella's bond was definitely something special and I'm really glad all of them found their HEA.
The only thing that I didn't like in this book is that there's cheating in it (Samantha cheated on her husband with Lucas). Granted, Marc (Samantha's husband) probably did the same thing for years but I think it would be better if Samantha broke up with him before she slept with Lucas since she had feelings for him. I know their marriage was already shattered and I understand that it's difficult to break up with your husband when you have a child together but if she had done before she got involved with Lucas she would have been the perfect heroine for me.
This book was such a surprise for me! I loved the author's writing style and I'm definitely going to read the rest of her books and of course Bella's story.
July 13, 2016
Samantha O'Rourke has had a crush on Lucas all throughout college, and yet he always saw her as a friend and nothing more.
Lucas knew Samantha was beautiful but, because he has plans after college, he can't and won't start anything with her or anyone else.
Fast forward, and a Facebook friend request to Samantha gets the ball rolling again and man, is Lucas ever happy he sent that request! When he asks Sam to coffee, never did he expect to see how much more beautiful Sam is now, and it gets his blood pumping.
I won't go more into what happens or how it ends, just know that it had me on the edge of my seat, sweating and hoping Sam gets her HEA. Lucas, oh Lucas, he had me swooning hard especially over how he treated Bella....Loved this beautiful story of friendship, loss, hope, love and, when given a second chance at love, taking it by the horns and not letting it go!! ~ Kara, 5 Beautiful stars
~~~
Second chances at true love… is there anything better? Always You was such a sweet, romantic, sexy story about taking a chance on the one who you were always meant to be with.
Samantha had a crush on Lucas for the last three years of college. He was a fantastic friend to her, but she always wanted more.
“He was a true friend in every sense, except for the fact I would spend half of our time together fantasizing how it would feel to explore his mouth with my tongue.”
Never having the courage to tell him, Samantha and Lucas say good-bye when he leaves for a job in California.
Flash-forward some years and when Lucas Facebook friends her, she jumps at the chance to become friends again. A seemingly simple friendship quickly becomes more.
“I know I’m not supposed to think about you all day long. I know I’m not supposed to want to talk to you every minute of the day, or touch you, or kiss you. But, fuck—” Lucas closed the space between us and grabbed me by the nape of my neck, pulling me towards him. “That’s all I ever want to do, Sam.”
The connection between the two of them is intense and combustible.
“Right now, you’re mine. And nothing else matters to me except how beautiful you look every time I make you come.”
The relationship between Lucas and Bella was one of my favorite parts of this book. I was so thankful that Lucas showed Bella how a man is supposed to be. This story had the perfect blend of romance, drama, sexiness, and love. Find out if Samantha settles for her current life or if she finally gets her happily ever after. ~ Tiffany, 4 stars
Lucas knew Samantha was beautiful but, because he has plans after college, he can't and won't start anything with her or anyone else.
Fast forward, and a Facebook friend request to Samantha gets the ball rolling again and man, is Lucas ever happy he sent that request! When he asks Sam to coffee, never did he expect to see how much more beautiful Sam is now, and it gets his blood pumping.
I won't go more into what happens or how it ends, just know that it had me on the edge of my seat, sweating and hoping Sam gets her HEA. Lucas, oh Lucas, he had me swooning hard especially over how he treated Bella....Loved this beautiful story of friendship, loss, hope, love and, when given a second chance at love, taking it by the horns and not letting it go!! ~ Kara, 5 Beautiful stars
~~~
Second chances at true love… is there anything better? Always You was such a sweet, romantic, sexy story about taking a chance on the one who you were always meant to be with.
Samantha had a crush on Lucas for the last three years of college. He was a fantastic friend to her, but she always wanted more.
“He was a true friend in every sense, except for the fact I would spend half of our time together fantasizing how it would feel to explore his mouth with my tongue.”
Never having the courage to tell him, Samantha and Lucas say good-bye when he leaves for a job in California.
Flash-forward some years and when Lucas Facebook friends her, she jumps at the chance to become friends again. A seemingly simple friendship quickly becomes more.
“I know I’m not supposed to think about you all day long. I know I’m not supposed to want to talk to you every minute of the day, or touch you, or kiss you. But, fuck—” Lucas closed the space between us and grabbed me by the nape of my neck, pulling me towards him. “That’s all I ever want to do, Sam.”
The connection between the two of them is intense and combustible.
“Right now, you’re mine. And nothing else matters to me except how beautiful you look every time I make you come.”
The relationship between Lucas and Bella was one of my favorite parts of this book. I was so thankful that Lucas showed Bella how a man is supposed to be. This story had the perfect blend of romance, drama, sexiness, and love. Find out if Samantha settles for her current life or if she finally gets her happily ever after. ~ Tiffany, 4 stars
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July 19, 2016I'll refrain from rating this book since I was nowhere near the end when I put it down for the last time. I marked this as a dnf at 48%.
I'm sorry, but I just couldn't do it any more. Life is just too short to read a story that's not only cliche, but written in such a boring way that I just didn't care. I mean, if you find yourself skimming at just 10% into the book, it's a bad sign.
Here's what I didn't like. It's just the same old cliches all over again. Here's one of the NA recipes: manwhore/player H+ insecure/socially awkward/abused h+ gay best friend+ some angst about the past+ undefined relationship status+ current miscommunication leading to more angst. Lucas, the H, is the player. He knows he's hot and he also knows that the h deserves more than something casual, which is about all he can give her at the beginning of he book. So he just sleeps around the whole time they're at the same school (him getting a grad and her getting an undergrad degree) and then he moves away. He comes back to NYC, finds out that she's married, but unhappily so, and convinces her to start "hanging out", not that she needed a lot of convincing. The h is insecure, has pretty low self esteem and doesn't realize how beautiful she is because her husband has been verbally abusing her for years. The H and h end up sleeping together and she files for separation from her husband, all within the first quarter of the book.
Now, you might think that I take exception to the fact that there's cheating in this book. And while that may not be my favorite element in this story, that's not why I couldn't bring myself to read any more of this. The reason that I can't torture myself anymore is because there was almost no build up to their affair. I mean, there was some pining when she was younger, she got married, had a child with someone else, the marriage starts falling apart, the H moves back to town, they reconnect, and all of a sudden (it was really a couple of months, but only took place within two-three chapters of the book), she's sleeping with him. The first person narratives from both MCs made me want to scream. The inner monologues sounded very young. And then there were the random appearances of old hook-ups and acquaintances, and I was about done. I couldn't stand how easy the h fell back in love with the H. I couldn't stand the dialogue, the monologue, or the boring plot. I just couldn't.
I'm sorry, but I just couldn't do it any more. Life is just too short to read a story that's not only cliche, but written in such a boring way that I just didn't care. I mean, if you find yourself skimming at just 10% into the book, it's a bad sign.
Here's what I didn't like. It's just the same old cliches all over again. Here's one of the NA recipes: manwhore/player H+ insecure/socially awkward/abused h+ gay best friend+ some angst about the past+ undefined relationship status+ current miscommunication leading to more angst. Lucas, the H, is the player. He knows he's hot and he also knows that the h deserves more than something casual, which is about all he can give her at the beginning of he book. So he just sleeps around the whole time they're at the same school (him getting a grad and her getting an undergrad degree) and then he moves away. He comes back to NYC, finds out that she's married, but unhappily so, and convinces her to start "hanging out", not that she needed a lot of convincing. The h is insecure, has pretty low self esteem and doesn't realize how beautiful she is because her husband has been verbally abusing her for years. The H and h end up sleeping together and she files for separation from her husband, all within the first quarter of the book.
Now, you might think that I take exception to the fact that there's cheating in this book. And while that may not be my favorite element in this story, that's not why I couldn't bring myself to read any more of this. The reason that I can't torture myself anymore is because there was almost no build up to their affair. I mean, there was some pining when she was younger, she got married, had a child with someone else, the marriage starts falling apart, the H moves back to town, they reconnect, and all of a sudden (it was really a couple of months, but only took place within two-three chapters of the book), she's sleeping with him. The first person narratives from both MCs made me want to scream. The inner monologues sounded very young. And then there were the random appearances of old hook-ups and acquaintances, and I was about done. I couldn't stand how easy the h fell back in love with the H. I couldn't stand the dialogue, the monologue, or the boring plot. I just couldn't.
February 12, 2015
I’m so honored to have received an advance copy of this book from the author. Thank you!! I swooned hard over the love story of Sam and Lucas. I’m a sucker for a second chance romance, and Stephanie Rose did not disappoint. The start of their relationship is heartbreaking and unconventional, but you can’t help root for them through it all.
At the heart of it all, this book is about believing you deserve more - believing you’re worthy of an all-consuming, lifetime kind of love. There were so many swoon-worthy moments and platinum sex scenes. Yes, I said platinum (cough, cough, kitchen, cough, cough)!
I highly recommend this beautiful love story and I can’t wait to see what Stephanie Rose has in store for us next!!
At the heart of it all, this book is about believing you deserve more - believing you’re worthy of an all-consuming, lifetime kind of love. There were so many swoon-worthy moments and platinum sex scenes. Yes, I said platinum (cough, cough, kitchen, cough, cough)!
I highly recommend this beautiful love story and I can’t wait to see what Stephanie Rose has in store for us next!!
February 7, 2017
I loved Lucas. He was so good with Bella. I actually read her story first and decided to go back and get her parents' story.
March 16, 2017
Second chance romances are one of my very favorite tropes, and Stephanie Rose never disappoints! I actually read this series of interconnected standalones out of order, but all of the books in the Second Chances series can truly be enjoyed without reading the others first. Always You introduces us to Lucas and Samantha and the story is told from both of their points of view.
I loved Sam and Lucas together. They each have their baggage and fears, but when they're together it's amazing. I do wish that Sam would have been less of a doormat and thrown her terrible husband to the curb a long time ago, but I loved watching her grow into the stronger, more confident version of herself. Lucas was equal parts arrogant and sexy, but also sweet and devoted. Even though he had commitment issues in the past, I loved that once he made up his mind about Sam, he was all in. It's true also, that of all the author's men, Lucas is definitely the dirtiest talker. ;)
There is some angst and drama in the story, but the main issues that arise are for our hero and heroine together, not against each other. The secondary characters, like I cannot possibly loathe him more Marc, were just as developed and amazing as our hero and heroine. The progression of the story is fairly predictable, but the characters and emotions were so relatable, that you can't help but fall in love with Sam, Lucas, and Bella. Speaking of Bella, she was definitely a highlight in the book and I was glad to find out more of her back story and history, since the first book I read by this author was actually Finding Me (Bella's spin off book when she is older).
Always You is a wonderfully sweet and enjoyable romance and the epilogue will have you grinning ear to ear. You definitely don't want to miss any of Stephanie Rose's books!
I loved Sam and Lucas together. They each have their baggage and fears, but when they're together it's amazing. I do wish that Sam would have been less of a doormat and thrown her terrible husband to the curb a long time ago, but I loved watching her grow into the stronger, more confident version of herself. Lucas was equal parts arrogant and sexy, but also sweet and devoted. Even though he had commitment issues in the past, I loved that once he made up his mind about Sam, he was all in. It's true also, that of all the author's men, Lucas is definitely the dirtiest talker. ;)
There is some angst and drama in the story, but the main issues that arise are for our hero and heroine together, not against each other. The secondary characters, like I cannot possibly loathe him more Marc, were just as developed and amazing as our hero and heroine. The progression of the story is fairly predictable, but the characters and emotions were so relatable, that you can't help but fall in love with Sam, Lucas, and Bella. Speaking of Bella, she was definitely a highlight in the book and I was glad to find out more of her back story and history, since the first book I read by this author was actually Finding Me (Bella's spin off book when she is older).
Always You is a wonderfully sweet and enjoyable romance and the epilogue will have you grinning ear to ear. You definitely don't want to miss any of Stephanie Rose's books!
November 26, 2015
Actual Rating: 4.5 Stars!
Always You follows the story of Samantha and Lucas. Samantha has had a crush on Lucas for as long as she has remembered, but he has never once looked her way. When Lucas gets an opportunity to move to the west coast, Sam finally decides that it’s time to move on. She moves on with Marc. At first things seem wonderful. He’s the perfect guy. They fall in love, get married and have a baby. Now, many years later, Sam and Marc’s marriage is slowly deteriorating. He’s jobless, mean and just plain lazy. He’s out all the time and doesn’t even take his wife into consideration. And worst of all, he acts as though his child is a burden. Why, oh why does Sam stay with Marc, you wonder? The answer is simple. She does it for her daughter.
Lucas has always had feelings for Sam. He’s always treasured her and felt the need to protect her, but the timing was never right. Years later, Lucas finds himself back home. When he meets Samantha again, he finally sees what he’s been missing all along. Only the problem is that she’s married. The more time they spend together,the more they fall into the easy friendship that they’ve always had. They’re both trying to fight what they’re feeling, but are both falling hard. When life throws Lucas and Samantha the opportunity for happiness, will they grab on to it with both hands? Will Samantha finally get the life that she deserves?
What an amazing debt novel by Stephanie Rose. The writing in this story is so captivating, so real, so palpable. When I read words like these:
“No!” Lucas yelled as a tear ran down his cheek. “You’re mine, Samantha–and I’m yours. You, me, Bella. We’re a family. My family. This is not what you think it is. I would never hurt you like that. I love you so much. Always you. You’re my life, my everything, my fucking world. I’ll never let you go. I can’t. I won’t.”
I couldn’t help but be hooked. This is one of those stories that sucks you and you can’t help but read every last word. I devoured this book. I savored every last word. I was rooting so hard for Samantha to get the life and love that she always deserved.
“I love you because of the way you look at me–like I’m a superhero who can do anything. I love you because I can’t picture my life without you”
“Superheros need a girl they can save, so she can save them right back.”
Lucas and Samantha’s road to HEA was not an easy one. They had so many obstacles and insecurities to overcome. I was hoping and praying that things would work out for them. They are exactly what a second chance romance should be.
Always You is such an amazing read. I have been looking for a really good, angsty read and this one more than delivered. I loved the characters. They were so real and easy to relate to. Their situations captivating, pulling at my heart and never letting go. Always You is a beautiful story of friendship, love, finding that second chance and never giving up. The perfect amount of angst and romance. As I said before, this is an amazing debut novel and I can not wait to read more from this author in the future!
*I received an ARC copy of this book, in exchange for an honest review*
You can also see my review here at: http://onceuponabookblog.com/2015/04/...
Always You follows the story of Samantha and Lucas. Samantha has had a crush on Lucas for as long as she has remembered, but he has never once looked her way. When Lucas gets an opportunity to move to the west coast, Sam finally decides that it’s time to move on. She moves on with Marc. At first things seem wonderful. He’s the perfect guy. They fall in love, get married and have a baby. Now, many years later, Sam and Marc’s marriage is slowly deteriorating. He’s jobless, mean and just plain lazy. He’s out all the time and doesn’t even take his wife into consideration. And worst of all, he acts as though his child is a burden. Why, oh why does Sam stay with Marc, you wonder? The answer is simple. She does it for her daughter.
Lucas has always had feelings for Sam. He’s always treasured her and felt the need to protect her, but the timing was never right. Years later, Lucas finds himself back home. When he meets Samantha again, he finally sees what he’s been missing all along. Only the problem is that she’s married. The more time they spend together,the more they fall into the easy friendship that they’ve always had. They’re both trying to fight what they’re feeling, but are both falling hard. When life throws Lucas and Samantha the opportunity for happiness, will they grab on to it with both hands? Will Samantha finally get the life that she deserves?
What an amazing debt novel by Stephanie Rose. The writing in this story is so captivating, so real, so palpable. When I read words like these:
“No!” Lucas yelled as a tear ran down his cheek. “You’re mine, Samantha–and I’m yours. You, me, Bella. We’re a family. My family. This is not what you think it is. I would never hurt you like that. I love you so much. Always you. You’re my life, my everything, my fucking world. I’ll never let you go. I can’t. I won’t.”
I couldn’t help but be hooked. This is one of those stories that sucks you and you can’t help but read every last word. I devoured this book. I savored every last word. I was rooting so hard for Samantha to get the life and love that she always deserved.
“I love you because of the way you look at me–like I’m a superhero who can do anything. I love you because I can’t picture my life without you”
“Superheros need a girl they can save, so she can save them right back.”
Lucas and Samantha’s road to HEA was not an easy one. They had so many obstacles and insecurities to overcome. I was hoping and praying that things would work out for them. They are exactly what a second chance romance should be.
Always You is such an amazing read. I have been looking for a really good, angsty read and this one more than delivered. I loved the characters. They were so real and easy to relate to. Their situations captivating, pulling at my heart and never letting go. Always You is a beautiful story of friendship, love, finding that second chance and never giving up. The perfect amount of angst and romance. As I said before, this is an amazing debut novel and I can not wait to read more from this author in the future!
*I received an ARC copy of this book, in exchange for an honest review*
You can also see my review here at: http://onceuponabookblog.com/2015/04/...
March 3, 2015
You need to watch out for this debut author! This book is going to pluck those heart strings and warm up your cold nights!
I had the honor of reading Always You when it was just a thought in Stephanie's mind...I am so proud of her for sticking through and putting her dream to paper!
Always You is a beautiful, relatable tale about true love, second chances, starting over and never giving up on your dream. Sam is every modern woman of today...REAL and Lucas...oh, Lucas you are the total book boyfriend package. And lets not forget Bella...she stole my heart the way she stole Lucas's! I particularly loved how Stephanie incorporated Lucas and Bella's relationship into this because, lets face it, if a man can't love a woman and everything that comes with her, then he's not the right man after all.
Without giving anything away, I encourage you to take the journey by reading this refreshing and heartwarming debut novel by the talented Mrs. Rose!
I had the honor of reading Always You when it was just a thought in Stephanie's mind...I am so proud of her for sticking through and putting her dream to paper!
Always You is a beautiful, relatable tale about true love, second chances, starting over and never giving up on your dream. Sam is every modern woman of today...REAL and Lucas...oh, Lucas you are the total book boyfriend package. And lets not forget Bella...she stole my heart the way she stole Lucas's! I particularly loved how Stephanie incorporated Lucas and Bella's relationship into this because, lets face it, if a man can't love a woman and everything that comes with her, then he's not the right man after all.
Without giving anything away, I encourage you to take the journey by reading this refreshing and heartwarming debut novel by the talented Mrs. Rose!
March 26, 2015
A firm believer that everyone deserves their happily ever after, a lot of my favorite books are second chance love stories. Always You does not disappoint. It's not an easy ride for Samantha, with her past decisions ending in regret. Thankfully, Sam's character is strong and determined. She doesn't give up easily and wants nothing more than to follow her heart.
The highlight of this story for me is Samantha's daughter, Bella. Watching her come out of her shell was truly worth every ounce of sadness she's had to go through. Her relationship with Lucas is so special. He's a real man who takes care of what's his - a father in every way that matters. Their relationship is the breath of fresh air that makes this story come alive.
I look forward to reading more from Stephanie Rose in the future.
The highlight of this story for me is Samantha's daughter, Bella. Watching her come out of her shell was truly worth every ounce of sadness she's had to go through. Her relationship with Lucas is so special. He's a real man who takes care of what's his - a father in every way that matters. Their relationship is the breath of fresh air that makes this story come alive.
I look forward to reading more from Stephanie Rose in the future.
June 26, 2019
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January 10, 2018
Always Lucas!
I loved this book! Lucas was so hot with his alpha tendencies! Samantha had a crush on Lucas in college, but the man he is now has Sam feeling a while lot more. Lucas always thought of Sam as just a friend, until he sees her all grown up. Lucas was so romantic, and so patient as Sam dealt with her past. He truly was her knight in shining armor. I'm looking forward to reading Only You next.
I loved this book! Lucas was so hot with his alpha tendencies! Samantha had a crush on Lucas in college, but the man he is now has Sam feeling a while lot more. Lucas always thought of Sam as just a friend, until he sees her all grown up. Lucas was so romantic, and so patient as Sam dealt with her past. He truly was her knight in shining armor. I'm looking forward to reading Only You next.
April 9, 2015
* A review copy was provided by the author for the Blog Tour *
~ 5 Always You Stars ~
Always You is the debut novel for Stephanie Rose and I have to say she knocked it out of the park. I thoroughly enjoyed this book. I loved that it was a cross between a second chance romance and a friends to lovers type story. I will say it leaned more towards the friends to lovers story because the main couple were never really together in the past…the heroine just had a major crush on him but was afraid to tell him, but that all changes when they are reunited 10 years later.
I thought this was a really sweet love story. The storyline was engaging and held my attention all the way through. I felt that this story was very well written. There was never a time that I was rolling my eyes or felt it was dragging. I really liked that there wasn't an over abundance of drama. Don't get me wrong there was some drama, but it was usually short lived and not dragged out throughout the whole book. I also liked that the author didn't drag out getting the main couple together. It was sort of a insta-love but it worked in this case because they had a history together.
I will warn you…..that if cheating is a hard limit for you, then you might want to pass on this book. Normally I don't like cheating in books AT ALL, but for some reason it worked in this story and I wasn't bothered by it. I think that had to do with the fact that the author made it clear from the beginning what a DBag the husband of the heroine's was. There was never a time that I rooted for Samantha and Marc (the DBag husband) to ever work it out. You knew from the beginning that Lucas was meant to be with Samantha and just bad timing and other circumstances kept them apart.
We meet Samantha (Sam) and Lucas in this book. Like I said, Lucas and Sam have a past. They went to college together and Lucas was Sam's advisor. They met when Sam was a Freshman and Lucas was older. During the three years they were in college, they remained good friends, but Sam carried a secret torch for Lucas the whole time. She wanted to tell him but when she finally had the guts, something got in the way. After college Lucas left New York and moved to California. Sam's life moved on and she married Marc and had a child named Bella. Fast forward 10 years and Lucas comes back to New York for work and reunites with Sam. What happens after that is a really sweet friends to lovers story and also a story about learning to follow your heart and knowing what is best for you. I loved watching Lucas and Sam reconnect. And watching Lucas with Bella was heartwarming and totally swoon worthy. Lucas truly does make an amazing Book Boyfriend. As for Sam….I loved watching her come out of her shell and realize she deserved to be happy. I enjoyed watching her get a back bone when it came to Marc and his mother.
I would 100% recommend this book to anyone who enjoys a second chance romance or a friends to lovers story. This book will have you giggling, crying, smiling and blushing, but overall it will leave you with a HUGE smile on your face. This is definitely one I will read again in the future!!!! I look forward to more book by this author.
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~ 5 Always You Stars ~
Always You is the debut novel for Stephanie Rose and I have to say she knocked it out of the park. I thoroughly enjoyed this book. I loved that it was a cross between a second chance romance and a friends to lovers type story. I will say it leaned more towards the friends to lovers story because the main couple were never really together in the past…the heroine just had a major crush on him but was afraid to tell him, but that all changes when they are reunited 10 years later.
I thought this was a really sweet love story. The storyline was engaging and held my attention all the way through. I felt that this story was very well written. There was never a time that I was rolling my eyes or felt it was dragging. I really liked that there wasn't an over abundance of drama. Don't get me wrong there was some drama, but it was usually short lived and not dragged out throughout the whole book. I also liked that the author didn't drag out getting the main couple together. It was sort of a insta-love but it worked in this case because they had a history together.
I will warn you…..that if cheating is a hard limit for you, then you might want to pass on this book. Normally I don't like cheating in books AT ALL, but for some reason it worked in this story and I wasn't bothered by it. I think that had to do with the fact that the author made it clear from the beginning what a DBag the husband of the heroine's was. There was never a time that I rooted for Samantha and Marc (the DBag husband) to ever work it out. You knew from the beginning that Lucas was meant to be with Samantha and just bad timing and other circumstances kept them apart.
We meet Samantha (Sam) and Lucas in this book. Like I said, Lucas and Sam have a past. They went to college together and Lucas was Sam's advisor. They met when Sam was a Freshman and Lucas was older. During the three years they were in college, they remained good friends, but Sam carried a secret torch for Lucas the whole time. She wanted to tell him but when she finally had the guts, something got in the way. After college Lucas left New York and moved to California. Sam's life moved on and she married Marc and had a child named Bella. Fast forward 10 years and Lucas comes back to New York for work and reunites with Sam. What happens after that is a really sweet friends to lovers story and also a story about learning to follow your heart and knowing what is best for you. I loved watching Lucas and Sam reconnect. And watching Lucas with Bella was heartwarming and totally swoon worthy. Lucas truly does make an amazing Book Boyfriend. As for Sam….I loved watching her come out of her shell and realize she deserved to be happy. I enjoyed watching her get a back bone when it came to Marc and his mother.
I would 100% recommend this book to anyone who enjoys a second chance romance or a friends to lovers story. This book will have you giggling, crying, smiling and blushing, but overall it will leave you with a HUGE smile on your face. This is definitely one I will read again in the future!!!! I look forward to more book by this author.
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March 21, 2015
Every once in a while when I'm done reading a book, I sit back in a thoughtful moment and simply think "damn...I wish I wrote that." That happened earlier today when I finished an ARC of Always You by Stephanie Rose.
Always You is a believable second-chance love story that will have you rooting for Samantha and Lucas from page one. I loved how I was instantly connected to the characters, drawn into the plot with her writing and dialogue, and found myself wanting to throw my kindle at the crux of the storyline. Poignant and heartfelt, this book will make you feel the full spectrum of emotions.
Lucas has rightfully earned a place on my book boyfriend shelf and I can't wait to see what Stephanie Rose crafts next!!! She has a lifelong reader in me.
Always You is a believable second-chance love story that will have you rooting for Samantha and Lucas from page one. I loved how I was instantly connected to the characters, drawn into the plot with her writing and dialogue, and found myself wanting to throw my kindle at the crux of the storyline. Poignant and heartfelt, this book will make you feel the full spectrum of emotions.
Lucas has rightfully earned a place on my book boyfriend shelf and I can't wait to see what Stephanie Rose crafts next!!! She has a lifelong reader in me.
February 22, 2016
3.5 stars
A very sweet second chances romance. I really liked Sam, Lucas and Bella. Such wonderful characters with so much heart and love. I had some trouble connecting with Sam and Lucas. I felt I was missing more build up to their relationship. Some more wooing and courting but maybe that's just me. Sam was one strong kick ass woman who doesn't talk crap from anyone. I loved that! Lucas stole my heart with his love for Sam and her daughter, Bella. His chemistry with Sam was hot and he's got a dirty mouth at times;-)
A very fast and at times predictable story but great none the less.
3.5 BadAssBeautifulButterflyStars
A very sweet second chances romance. I really liked Sam, Lucas and Bella. Such wonderful characters with so much heart and love. I had some trouble connecting with Sam and Lucas. I felt I was missing more build up to their relationship. Some more wooing and courting but maybe that's just me. Sam was one strong kick ass woman who doesn't talk crap from anyone. I loved that! Lucas stole my heart with his love for Sam and her daughter, Bella. His chemistry with Sam was hot and he's got a dirty mouth at times;-)
A very fast and at times predictable story but great none the less.
3.5 BadAssBeautifulButterflyStars
February 15, 2016
3.5 Enjoyable second chance story . Samantha and Lucas met in college through her best friend who happens to be Lucas's cousin. She always had a crush on Lucas who was know to be a ladies man, but never acted upon it as she thought he was out of her league. Lucas got a job offer and relocated to California. Ten years later and Samantha receives a friend request from Lucas, he's back. Very sweet, swoon worthy read.
November 15, 2020
Melodrama
I couldn't get into this one for some reason. Everyone else gave it rave reviews. I just kept sighing and listening for the violins. Some authors sell tears and pat HEAs. I like a touch of realism in a story.
I couldn't get into this one for some reason. Everyone else gave it rave reviews. I just kept sighing and listening for the violins. Some authors sell tears and pat HEAs. I like a touch of realism in a story.
Want to read
March 27, 2020🎁 FREE on Amazon today (6/26/2019)! 🎁
March 22, 2015
Always You is the best second chance at love book I've read in a very long time. From page one I was captivated with the writing, the characters, and the story. I was completely taken with Samantha. She was in love with her good friend, Lucas, who was leaving to go work in California. She had worked up the nerve a couple of times to tell him how she felt but always chickened out before she was able to tell him. She knew Lucas looked at her as just a friend and a sister type. But she couldn't quit thinking of and wanting him.
Lucas moved away and Samantha married Marc whom she knew from school. Settling is never a good thing and that's exactly what Samantha did; she settled for Marc and his womanizing ways. He ignored her, left her and their daughter at home while he went drinking and sleeping around, and couldn't hold down a job for anything.
Lucas moved back to town and wanted to reconnect with his old friends. When he facebooked Samantha and asked her out to drinks he never expected to have all those feelings from years ago to resurface. Samantha was just as beautiful, sexy, and feisty as her remembered. For months they text, met for lunch, and sometimes met for drinks at night. Those feelings kept getting stronger and stronger and Lucas didn't know if it was just one sided or if Samantha actually had feelings for him, too.
Yes, this is a story of second chance love. Granted, the beginning of their relationship was a little unconventional but it didn't stop me from rooting for them and wanting things to work out in their favor. Samantha needed to be loved and cherished and Lucas was just the guy to do that. Samantha's daughter deserved to see her mother treated right by a man, Lucas was the one to do that. But will Marc give up his marriage? Nevermind, he did all the sleeping around but he didn't want to be humiliated or lose his marriage. Would he stay in a loveless marriage just to save face? Would he walk away peacefully or would he make trouble for everyone involved?
This is a great contemporary second chance romance. Lucas didn't have to redeem himself or reform his ways. There wasn't a lot of back and forth; they both knew what they wanted and they fought for it. A loveless marriage isn't something we dream of as little girls but, unfortunately, sometimes it happens. Settling also isn't something we dream of but life gets in the way and we, eventually, have to settle. Samantha settled but found her voice and fought for her happily ever after.........will she get it? Does true love always win out? Can you really get that second chance and make it count?
I fell completely in love with Always You and Stephanie Rose. She is a very talented author whom I will be reading for years to come. I can't wait for you to read and fall in love just as hard as I did. Thank you, Stephanie, for sending me an ARC and sharing your talent with all of us lucky readers.
Lucas moved away and Samantha married Marc whom she knew from school. Settling is never a good thing and that's exactly what Samantha did; she settled for Marc and his womanizing ways. He ignored her, left her and their daughter at home while he went drinking and sleeping around, and couldn't hold down a job for anything.
Lucas moved back to town and wanted to reconnect with his old friends. When he facebooked Samantha and asked her out to drinks he never expected to have all those feelings from years ago to resurface. Samantha was just as beautiful, sexy, and feisty as her remembered. For months they text, met for lunch, and sometimes met for drinks at night. Those feelings kept getting stronger and stronger and Lucas didn't know if it was just one sided or if Samantha actually had feelings for him, too.
Yes, this is a story of second chance love. Granted, the beginning of their relationship was a little unconventional but it didn't stop me from rooting for them and wanting things to work out in their favor. Samantha needed to be loved and cherished and Lucas was just the guy to do that. Samantha's daughter deserved to see her mother treated right by a man, Lucas was the one to do that. But will Marc give up his marriage? Nevermind, he did all the sleeping around but he didn't want to be humiliated or lose his marriage. Would he stay in a loveless marriage just to save face? Would he walk away peacefully or would he make trouble for everyone involved?
This is a great contemporary second chance romance. Lucas didn't have to redeem himself or reform his ways. There wasn't a lot of back and forth; they both knew what they wanted and they fought for it. A loveless marriage isn't something we dream of as little girls but, unfortunately, sometimes it happens. Settling also isn't something we dream of but life gets in the way and we, eventually, have to settle. Samantha settled but found her voice and fought for her happily ever after.........will she get it? Does true love always win out? Can you really get that second chance and make it count?
I fell completely in love with Always You and Stephanie Rose. She is a very talented author whom I will be reading for years to come. I can't wait for you to read and fall in love just as hard as I did. Thank you, Stephanie, for sending me an ARC and sharing your talent with all of us lucky readers.
March 9, 2015
"""He was more than just a crush, or the man of my dreams. He was the other half of my soul, my Superman who would always rescue me—even from myself....... He completed me in every way possible."""
5 baby girl superman stars
I'm lucky enough to received an ARC of this debit book by ms Rose and gosh I love it so much. Always you is one great story of second chance love, friendship, never losing hope and a journey in finding your happy ever after and true love.
Sam and LuCAS story felt all REAL. The scenes, the emotions, the development of characters and oh don't forget the hot sexy scenes I really enjoyed. And ladies look out for our LUCAS HUNTER.! He'll definitely melt your heart and make you swoon. I swear his term of endearment to Sam which is "BABY GIRL" made my heart all mushy and awwww I can't help to fall in love with him more.
I really adore Samantha and how she able to stand up and fight to have her achieve her own happiness. Their journey is not always about heart and flowers,... They encountered a lots of bumps and stop thru their journey but at the end of the road they still didn't the way to makes all things right.
Always you is one great read that I really enjoyed. I laugh, swoon, it made my heart ache for all the bad circumstance Sam has to face but in the end this book teach me MORE about life and Love. That EVERYONE DESERVES MORE in LIFE, that we're all worthy of having our own happy ever after and not Settle for anything less. And we all have our Superman that will save us and complete us someday
5 baby girl superman stars
I'm lucky enough to received an ARC of this debit book by ms Rose and gosh I love it so much. Always you is one great story of second chance love, friendship, never losing hope and a journey in finding your happy ever after and true love.
Sam and LuCAS story felt all REAL. The scenes, the emotions, the development of characters and oh don't forget the hot sexy scenes I really enjoyed. And ladies look out for our LUCAS HUNTER.! He'll definitely melt your heart and make you swoon. I swear his term of endearment to Sam which is "BABY GIRL" made my heart all mushy and awwww I can't help to fall in love with him more.
I really adore Samantha and how she able to stand up and fight to have her achieve her own happiness. Their journey is not always about heart and flowers,... They encountered a lots of bumps and stop thru their journey but at the end of the road they still didn't the way to makes all things right.
Always you is one great read that I really enjoyed. I laugh, swoon, it made my heart ache for all the bad circumstance Sam has to face but in the end this book teach me MORE about life and Love. That EVERYONE DESERVES MORE in LIFE, that we're all worthy of having our own happy ever after and not Settle for anything less. And we all have our Superman that will save us and complete us someday
April 7, 2015
I really enjoyed this book. It was a pretty easy read and I was engrossed through every page. This was just an honest to god {second chance} love story. I needed a book like this.
"You gave me the courage to fight for what I wanted, and I never wanted anything more than you. Always you.”
I feel like it needs to be said that I don't condone cheating in any form or fashion. It's wrong and hurtful to everyone involved. BUT... Marc was a grade-A asshole and I honestly don't feel bad for him at all.
I adored Samantha and Lucas's characters. And sweet little Bella was a perfect addition. Lucas was an amazing hero. I would have loved his character regardless, but his relationship with Bella was the icing on the cake.
"When I wasn’t looking, Bella had flown right into my heart—and no matter what happened, she would never leave."
4.5 stars
"You gave me the courage to fight for what I wanted, and I never wanted anything more than you. Always you.”
I feel like it needs to be said that I don't condone cheating in any form or fashion. It's wrong and hurtful to everyone involved. BUT... Marc was a grade-A asshole and I honestly don't feel bad for him at all.
I adored Samantha and Lucas's characters. And sweet little Bella was a perfect addition. Lucas was an amazing hero. I would have loved his character regardless, but his relationship with Bella was the icing on the cake.
"When I wasn’t looking, Bella had flown right into my heart—and no matter what happened, she would never leave."
4.5 stars
March 14, 2015
4 Stars...
This was a great debut novel from a new author! Some of the topics in this book are hard to write about and do them justice, I think Stephanie Rose nailed it!
Not to mention, there is a new bookboyfriend in town... Lucas Hunter is sweet, loving, sexy, and oh-so-swoon worthy!
Lucas looked like he was fighting with himself to pull away.
"Tell me to stop. Tell me to stop kissing you and I will..."
I look forward to reading more from this author!
This was a great debut novel from a new author! Some of the topics in this book are hard to write about and do them justice, I think Stephanie Rose nailed it!
Not to mention, there is a new bookboyfriend in town... Lucas Hunter is sweet, loving, sexy, and oh-so-swoon worthy!
Lucas looked like he was fighting with himself to pull away.
"Tell me to stop. Tell me to stop kissing you and I will..."
I look forward to reading more from this author!
February 13, 2015
I was honored to receive an ARC from the author. It is hard to believe this is Stephanie Rose's debut book. The plot line moves effortlessly, leaving the reader craving more. I COULD NOT put it down. I loved the characters. The author developed them beautifully throughout the story. They grow, they change, they are flawed, and they are completely believable. So much of this book captured my heart, and had me gripping my chest. I can't wait to read more from Stephanie Rose. (less)
February 21, 2020
I'm so glad that she got what she wanted in the end. The guy she was married to was a complete ass. I'm surprised she stayed with him that long. You knew it was bad when the daughter didn't even care if she saw him again or not. Thankfully the right man came along and showed both of them what a real man looks like.
Read
March 16, 2015Great debut novel! Review to come on the blog :)!
April 17, 2017
Reviewed on behalf of KU Book Reviews
RATING: BUY IT
“The only woman for me is you. The only woman I’ve ever loved is you. Always you.”
I may not have read her books before, but I’ve been a fan of Stephanie Rose for a while. Her covers, her blurbs, her reviews—all of it has made me want to get my hands on her books. However, in the way of most bloggers/reviewers/bookworms, my intimidating TBR stopped me from being able to do so.
Until now.
When Ms. Rose participated in #BedtimeStoryInTheKorner in KU Korner recently, I was practically giddy with excitement. I loved each one of the three stories she shared, and I knew… it was finally time to stop being intimidated by my TBR and get to reading, so I grabbed Always You (Second Chances Book 1)…
…and immediately fell in love. Which leaves me to wonder, WHY DIDN’T I READ THIS SOONER?!
Always You is the story of Lucas + Samantha. I loved that their second chance was their first time at love—they were friends once, but time and distance came between them—and I loved how effortless it was. Their connection was storybook perfect, even if the world around them was not. Even if the world around them was tense and strained.
Lucas + Sam (+ Bella) were like the eye of the storm, the center of the madness, and as life raged around them, I found happiness and comfort and love in them. This story is one that is beautiful, sexy and achingly tender, surprisingly low angst and yet, still utterly engaging.
I have to be honest and admit that it wasn’t perfect—I occasionally found some of the dialogue a touch stilted—but it didn’t matter. Not to me, and it shouldn’t to you, either. I was too invested, too in love, too swoony for Lucas (all facets of Lucas—kind Lucas, panty-dropping-smile Lucas, good with Bella Lucas, Alpha Lucas…), too wrapped up in feels to care.
In fact, the only thing I cared about was how soon I could get started on Only You (Second Chances Book 2), because one book by Ms. Rose simply wasn’t enough.
“Do you know how much I want you? How long I’ve waited to touch you like this?”
RATING: BUY IT
“The only woman for me is you. The only woman I’ve ever loved is you. Always you.”
I may not have read her books before, but I’ve been a fan of Stephanie Rose for a while. Her covers, her blurbs, her reviews—all of it has made me want to get my hands on her books. However, in the way of most bloggers/reviewers/bookworms, my intimidating TBR stopped me from being able to do so.
Until now.
When Ms. Rose participated in #BedtimeStoryInTheKorner in KU Korner recently, I was practically giddy with excitement. I loved each one of the three stories she shared, and I knew… it was finally time to stop being intimidated by my TBR and get to reading, so I grabbed Always You (Second Chances Book 1)…
…and immediately fell in love. Which leaves me to wonder, WHY DIDN’T I READ THIS SOONER?!
Always You is the story of Lucas + Samantha. I loved that their second chance was their first time at love—they were friends once, but time and distance came between them—and I loved how effortless it was. Their connection was storybook perfect, even if the world around them was not. Even if the world around them was tense and strained.
Lucas + Sam (+ Bella) were like the eye of the storm, the center of the madness, and as life raged around them, I found happiness and comfort and love in them. This story is one that is beautiful, sexy and achingly tender, surprisingly low angst and yet, still utterly engaging.
I have to be honest and admit that it wasn’t perfect—I occasionally found some of the dialogue a touch stilted—but it didn’t matter. Not to me, and it shouldn’t to you, either. I was too invested, too in love, too swoony for Lucas (all facets of Lucas—kind Lucas, panty-dropping-smile Lucas, good with Bella Lucas, Alpha Lucas…), too wrapped up in feels to care.
In fact, the only thing I cared about was how soon I could get started on Only You (Second Chances Book 2), because one book by Ms. Rose simply wasn’t enough.
“Do you know how much I want you? How long I’ve waited to touch you like this?”
July 25, 2017
Beautiful Second Chance
I absolutely loved this book.
Possible Spoiled...
Samantha and Lucas were so adorable together. I do not normally read books with any hint to cheating however this book was written so tastefully that I think it showed a very real aspect of today's society without being over done. I also loved that Sam and Lucas had real life struggles for a couple in their 30s. Having to deal with divorce and custody made this book more real.
Ms Rose is a new to me author and I cannot wait to read more
I absolutely loved this book.
Possible Spoiled...
Samantha and Lucas were so adorable together. I do not normally read books with any hint to cheating however this book was written so tastefully that I think it showed a very real aspect of today's society without being over done. I also loved that Sam and Lucas had real life struggles for a couple in their 30s. Having to deal with divorce and custody made this book more real.
Ms Rose is a new to me author and I cannot wait to read more
Read
January 7, 2025DNF @30%
I really didn’t enjoy the writing or the execution. It felt all over the place with no depth. Since this is my first book by this author I’ll give it another chance with some other book.
I really didn’t enjoy the writing or the execution. It felt all over the place with no depth. Since this is my first book by this author I’ll give it another chance with some other book.
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