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Second Chances
Haley Cohen damned Jon Mercer the moment he left her at the altar. He embarrassed her, shamed her, and took what shred of dignity she had left. Reconstructing her life hasn’t been easy, in fact, there are things she’ll never be able to forget. Yet, Jon makes a sudden reappearance in her life, reminding her of all her losses. He’s demanding, irritating and has some kind of nerve sucking her into his drama.
As Jon endures his past sins against Haley, he can’t change what he’s done. He had reasons for leaving–damn good ones. Now, everything he strives to protect is falling apart. No matter his determination, betrayal is in the works, forgiveness desperate, and secrets more than he can stomach. As hell steps up, Jon must fight against the one thing he wants more than anything…Haley’s heart.
Author Note: Title previously known as Aftermath. After careful consideration, I have listened to my readers and revised the story. This story does not contain a cheating hero!
Story Tags: contemporary romance; suspense; novella; *no cheating*; reunited love
As Jon endures his past sins against Haley, he can’t change what he’s done. He had reasons for leaving–damn good ones. Now, everything he strives to protect is falling apart. No matter his determination, betrayal is in the works, forgiveness desperate, and secrets more than he can stomach. As hell steps up, Jon must fight against the one thing he wants more than anything…Haley’s heart.
Author Note: Title previously known as Aftermath. After careful consideration, I have listened to my readers and revised the story. This story does not contain a cheating hero!
Story Tags: contemporary romance; suspense; novella; *no cheating*; reunited love
Unknown Binding
First published January 25, 2014
33 people are currently reading
77 people want to read
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June 17, 2019Let me get this straight. The plot of a book gets an overhaul following complaints the hero cheated.
Interesting.
Too damn bad all the complaints in the world can't prompt a writer to create a heroine who isn't weak and an utter embarrassment to women with strength.
It would be AWESOME to not be inundated by heroine after heroine giving over their self-respect and free will to an arse hole when he smirks and overtakes her physically because the throbbing betwixt her legs scrambles her brain activity!
Christ on a crutch! How about, oh, I don't know, fighting back? Showing a little dignity and steel?
God, I fecking hate these whimpering, hormone-drugged cows that forget being betrayed and screwed over because 'he's so hot,' or sexy or WTF EVER.
I cringe - literally, actually cringe - when a heroine gets turned on by an insecure man-child - pardon me, a 'hero' - acts like a bell-end. Giving orders, stalking and being handcuffed to a bed and held against her will - wowza. What a prince among men!
🙄
Stupid, pathetic excuses for women. What an abominable example, and how brainless are they to believe that just because they shag like weasels almost constantly that constitutes a great love. Whatever, mate.
Seriously, who invented this shit? Why has it not fallen out of favour yet?
Call me crazy, but I always thought that your relationship with the one you love involves other things besides the physical... like actual conversations and engaging in activities OTHER than rolling around molesting one another and bumping uglies.
Nothing new here. Nothing worthy of interest, just nothing. You read one of these type books, you've read them all. The heroine is spineless and needy, the hero is controlling and 'godlike', he treats her like shite but she can't stand uo for herself due to her rogue p*ssy and soaked undies, and they f*ck approximately 3x per chapter.
The end.
Next...
Interesting.
Too damn bad all the complaints in the world can't prompt a writer to create a heroine who isn't weak and an utter embarrassment to women with strength.
It would be AWESOME to not be inundated by heroine after heroine giving over their self-respect and free will to an arse hole when he smirks and overtakes her physically because the throbbing betwixt her legs scrambles her brain activity!
Christ on a crutch! How about, oh, I don't know, fighting back? Showing a little dignity and steel?
God, I fecking hate these whimpering, hormone-drugged cows that forget being betrayed and screwed over because 'he's so hot,' or sexy or WTF EVER.
I cringe - literally, actually cringe - when a heroine gets turned on by an insecure man-child - pardon me, a 'hero' - acts like a bell-end. Giving orders, stalking and being handcuffed to a bed and held against her will - wowza. What a prince among men!
🙄
Stupid, pathetic excuses for women. What an abominable example, and how brainless are they to believe that just because they shag like weasels almost constantly that constitutes a great love. Whatever, mate.
Seriously, who invented this shit? Why has it not fallen out of favour yet?
Call me crazy, but I always thought that your relationship with the one you love involves other things besides the physical... like actual conversations and engaging in activities OTHER than rolling around molesting one another and bumping uglies.
Nothing new here. Nothing worthy of interest, just nothing. You read one of these type books, you've read them all. The heroine is spineless and needy, the hero is controlling and 'godlike', he treats her like shite but she can't stand uo for herself due to her rogue p*ssy and soaked undies, and they f*ck approximately 3x per chapter.
The end.
Next...
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
November 3, 2016
Wasted time. Spoilers below
I loved this book until around the 75% mark and I almost didn't finish it. as it was I did skim through the rest. The angst had been worth it because I knew he loved her so much but then bam. He had slept with someone else during the year apart. But guess what? It didn't mean anything! Okay I forgive you then. And even when her 'friend' told her he was drunk and neither one enjoyed it, that he kept saying the 'h's' name, I still say bull manure. He probably did love her but that ruined this novella for me. Totally ruined it. I don't care that he regretted it, I don't care that he was trying to save her life, I don't care they had their HEA, it didn't work for me. It actually sucked. It's a personal thing with me but it brought back some pain of my own. I am warning you so if that is your trigger avoid it. I wish someone would have warned me. It didn't need to be in the plot. There was enough there as it was. It just sucked.
I loved this book until around the 75% mark and I almost didn't finish it. as it was I did skim through the rest. The angst had been worth it because I knew he loved her so much but then bam. He had slept with someone else during the year apart. But guess what? It didn't mean anything! Okay I forgive you then. And even when her 'friend' told her he was drunk and neither one enjoyed it, that he kept saying the 'h's' name, I still say bull manure. He probably did love her but that ruined this novella for me. Totally ruined it. I don't care that he regretted it, I don't care that he was trying to save her life, I don't care they had their HEA, it didn't work for me. It actually sucked. It's a personal thing with me but it brought back some pain of my own. I am warning you so if that is your trigger avoid it. I wish someone would have warned me. It didn't need to be in the plot. There was enough there as it was. It just sucked.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
January 14, 2020
How about re-write it a third time with an heroine with a backbone and not a fucking traitor body???????
Frustrating.
Frustrating.
June 15, 2019
Thank you Ms. Mikell
I really appreciate the re-write. I love that you listen to your readers. It was awesome too. He really was a great hero in this book. Thank you again.
I really appreciate the re-write. I love that you listen to your readers. It was awesome too. He really was a great hero in this book. Thank you again.
January 13, 2020
There was too much going on for such a short book (133 pages). It felt rushed. I didn't buy the whole set up to compromise and humiliate Haley. The contradictions with explanations and events had me confused. Also, Haley forgave so much betrayal too quickly. The whole Trinity mess was a WTF for a couple of reasons. This book might have been better if it was longer so the characters, the suspense and the story could have been more developed. 2 stars.
maybe
April 22, 2017I hated 'Aftermath'. Maybe this might work for me if it's rewritten that the hero has some self control and can keep it in his pants during their separation.
Want to read
January 14, 2020Author Note: Title previously known as Aftermath. After careful consideration, I have listened to my readers and revised the story. This story does not contain a cheating hero!
Hats off to this author!!!! I'll purchase a copy just because of this! #nocheatinginromance
Hats off to this author!!!! I'll purchase a copy just because of this! #nocheatinginromance
March 31, 2020
Great
This was great. I didn’t expect the twists and turns and was pleasantly surprised when I read it. It was so worth all my time.
This was great. I didn’t expect the twists and turns and was pleasantly surprised when I read it. It was so worth all my time.
August 11, 2016
I very rarely ever sit down and finish a book in one sitting unless it's really short. However, I could not stop reading Aftermath until the very last word of the epilogue. I loved the story. The main character, Haley, had so much to deal with in the span of one year that it's hard not to be sympathetic toward her. She is a strong character that I felt I could easily cheer for. The main male lead, Jon, was confident and sexy, though I spent a good bit of the story p*ssed at him, mostly because I was so pro-Haley. I won't say anymore about the plot because I don't want to spoil anything. I found myself surprised several different times. I definitely recommend Aftermath!
June 12, 2014
I recieved this book from the author for an honest review. I enjoyed this book. It was fast paced, and well written with just the right amount of steam, with that bit if suspense that kept me turning the page. I wanted to hate Jon, but after everything came to light, I couldn't. I wanted Hayley to make him suffer a little more, but I get why she didn't. I did feel the chemistry between the two of them, which is what made it easier to understand the conflict and the forgiveness. All in all, it was a good story about love prevailing against the heartache and pain with everything stacked against it. Definitly a good read
October 12, 2016
More a notes session for me than review. 2.5-3.5 stars. Melodramatic in some places, confusing in others. Epilogue with attached email saved this one a tiny bit.
February 16, 2018
This book was not for me. I mostly skimmed this book, it was a little too silly.
December 14, 2023
Oldie
August 30, 2015
Reviewed by Amy W
Book provided by the publisher
Originally posted at Romancing the Book
From the first page, Beth Mikell grabs the reader’s attention with a gripping look into Haley Cohen’s life. In Aftermath, Haley is picking up the pieces after being left at the altar.
Through the use of flashbacks, the reader is taken through Haley’s relationship with Jonathan Mercer. The word “scorching” doesn’t even come close to describing this book. The raw, grief-filled emotion is apparent with every scene that flashes by. The flashbacks are woven smoothly into the story line without the choppiness that often comes with this approach. This is a riveting relationship from flirtation to consummation.
As Mikell creates the foundation to connect the reader to the story, she takes it a step farther by bringing Jonathan back into Haley’s life, a year after he had left her with no explanation.
What follows is an explosive story line brimming with energy. The chemistry between the two characters is visible in every encounter as they try to find common ground. The unexpected plot twist, coupled with passionate flashbacks, keeps the energy level sizzling.
It doesn’t take long to realize that Jon is going to use every resource at his disposal to ensure that his “Halo” understands that he will never let her go. Aftermath is an example of erotica at its best, minus the fact that it could use another edit. This wickedly naughty read will stay with you long after the last chapter is read.
Book provided by the publisher
Originally posted at Romancing the Book
From the first page, Beth Mikell grabs the reader’s attention with a gripping look into Haley Cohen’s life. In Aftermath, Haley is picking up the pieces after being left at the altar.
Through the use of flashbacks, the reader is taken through Haley’s relationship with Jonathan Mercer. The word “scorching” doesn’t even come close to describing this book. The raw, grief-filled emotion is apparent with every scene that flashes by. The flashbacks are woven smoothly into the story line without the choppiness that often comes with this approach. This is a riveting relationship from flirtation to consummation.
As Mikell creates the foundation to connect the reader to the story, she takes it a step farther by bringing Jonathan back into Haley’s life, a year after he had left her with no explanation.
What follows is an explosive story line brimming with energy. The chemistry between the two characters is visible in every encounter as they try to find common ground. The unexpected plot twist, coupled with passionate flashbacks, keeps the energy level sizzling.
It doesn’t take long to realize that Jon is going to use every resource at his disposal to ensure that his “Halo” understands that he will never let her go. Aftermath is an example of erotica at its best, minus the fact that it could use another edit. This wickedly naughty read will stay with you long after the last chapter is read.
February 19, 2014
***** EROTICA BOOK CLUB REVIEW ****
Aftermath
by Beth Mikell
When Jon Mercer left Hayley Cohen at the alter she was left devastated now a year later she has tried to put her life back together, then Jon reappears back into her life causing havoc. Hayley learns that the man she loved and was going to spend the rest of her life with has been lying to her from the very beginning of their relationship. Can Jon convince Hayley that he really does love her and get her to forgive him?
This is a really easy to read book and has a few twists in it that you won't see coming. It also has a really interesting and original plot but I didn't feel like I connected with the story or the characters, its not a boring read and there was enough going on to keep me reading and enjoy it. There just wasn't enough chemistry between myself and the story and the characters, its not badly written and has good sex scenes in it.
Hayley is in quite a mess and with good reason too and I just want her to have some happiness. I understand why Jon did what he did and how hard it must have been for him.
It was a nice read and I do not regret reading it at all just it was just missing the wow factor for my liking. I must also say the storyline ran smoothly and came together well.
There is no angst and its a HEA ending
I received a copy from the author in exchange for an honest review
3.5 stars for Amazon & 3 stars for Goodreads
~Jane~
Aftermath
by Beth Mikell
When Jon Mercer left Hayley Cohen at the alter she was left devastated now a year later she has tried to put her life back together, then Jon reappears back into her life causing havoc. Hayley learns that the man she loved and was going to spend the rest of her life with has been lying to her from the very beginning of their relationship. Can Jon convince Hayley that he really does love her and get her to forgive him?
This is a really easy to read book and has a few twists in it that you won't see coming. It also has a really interesting and original plot but I didn't feel like I connected with the story or the characters, its not a boring read and there was enough going on to keep me reading and enjoy it. There just wasn't enough chemistry between myself and the story and the characters, its not badly written and has good sex scenes in it.
Hayley is in quite a mess and with good reason too and I just want her to have some happiness. I understand why Jon did what he did and how hard it must have been for him.
It was a nice read and I do not regret reading it at all just it was just missing the wow factor for my liking. I must also say the storyline ran smoothly and came together well.
There is no angst and its a HEA ending
I received a copy from the author in exchange for an honest review
3.5 stars for Amazon & 3 stars for Goodreads
~Jane~
February 19, 2014
***** EROTICA BOOK CLUB REVIEW ****
Aftermath
by Beth Mikell
When Jon Mercer left Hayley Cohen at the alter she was left devastated now a year later she has tried to put her life back together, then Jon reappears back into her life causing havoc. Hayley learns that the man she loved and was going to spend the rest of her life with has been lying to her from the very beginning of their relationship. Can Jon convince Hayley that he really does love her and get her to forgive him?
This is a really easy to read book and has a few twists in it that you won't see coming. It also has a really interesting and original plot but I didn't feel like I connected with the story or the characters, its not a boring read and there was enough going on to keep me reading and enjoy it. There just wasn't enough chemistry between myself and the story and the characters, its not badly written and has good sex scenes in it.
Hayley is in quite a mess and with good reason too and I just want her to have some happiness. I understand why Jon did what he did and how hard it must have been for him.
It was a nice read and I do not regret reading it at all just it was just missing the wow factor for my liking. I must also say the storyline ran smoothly and came together well.
There is no angst and its a HEA ending
I received a copy from the author in exchange for an honest review
3.5 stars for Amazon & 3 stars for Goodreads
~Jane~
Aftermath
by Beth Mikell
When Jon Mercer left Hayley Cohen at the alter she was left devastated now a year later she has tried to put her life back together, then Jon reappears back into her life causing havoc. Hayley learns that the man she loved and was going to spend the rest of her life with has been lying to her from the very beginning of their relationship. Can Jon convince Hayley that he really does love her and get her to forgive him?
This is a really easy to read book and has a few twists in it that you won't see coming. It also has a really interesting and original plot but I didn't feel like I connected with the story or the characters, its not a boring read and there was enough going on to keep me reading and enjoy it. There just wasn't enough chemistry between myself and the story and the characters, its not badly written and has good sex scenes in it.
Hayley is in quite a mess and with good reason too and I just want her to have some happiness. I understand why Jon did what he did and how hard it must have been for him.
It was a nice read and I do not regret reading it at all just it was just missing the wow factor for my liking. I must also say the storyline ran smoothly and came together well.
There is no angst and its a HEA ending
I received a copy from the author in exchange for an honest review
3.5 stars for Amazon & 3 stars for Goodreads
~Jane~
August 27, 2016
I loved Aftermath, I could feel the pain that Haley felt. The author was bang on with Haley's feelings after the breakup; her struggles and weight loss. Funny how a story can be so relatable to a readers own experiences in life.
The authors writing is excellent; I love the descriptive words, sentences were well structured, paragraphs were the right length and there was flow throughout the novel.
Jon's character was easy to love for this reader. He reminded me of alot of Maya Banks strong men in her novels. I understood why he stayed away at the end with his injuries and I am very happy and satisfied with the ending.
This is a love story with lots of emotions, suspense, angst, and alternated between the past and the present. I enjoyed this back and forth way of telling a story.
Time well spent for this reader, and I was satisfied with the ending!
The author gifted this copy for honest review.
The authors writing is excellent; I love the descriptive words, sentences were well structured, paragraphs were the right length and there was flow throughout the novel.
Jon's character was easy to love for this reader. He reminded me of alot of Maya Banks strong men in her novels. I understood why he stayed away at the end with his injuries and I am very happy and satisfied with the ending.
This is a love story with lots of emotions, suspense, angst, and alternated between the past and the present. I enjoyed this back and forth way of telling a story.
Time well spent for this reader, and I was satisfied with the ending!
The author gifted this copy for honest review.
September 8, 2014
I'm a sucker for books where the hero hurts the heroine, and then has to make up for it, and earn her forgiveness. I'm usually disappointed. However, in this case, I thought the author did a good job giving reasonable explanations and details surrounding the events of the storyline. Yes, I was heartbroken for the h, and I wasn't thrilled with the way things happened, but I felt for the H too, and could see what he was trying to do. I liked the writing style, I thought intimate scenes were spicy and well done, and liked the fact the h had a relatively good backbone when it came to standing up to the H (she did not just give in because he touched her). I am still slightly confused with the deal with her brother and the restaurant, and I felt the story line wrapped up rather abruptly, but I did enjoy the book overall.
August 12, 2017
I simply love this book. The description does not do it justice. I literally stayed up all night reading it. I now want to read the next book . I highly recommend this book. I did not want to put any spoilers in this review because I want others to be pleasantly surprised by this story. I look forward to reading it again...many, many times!!
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January 29, 2021Author Note: Second Chances is the revised edition of Aftermath. This title is retired.
Aftermath has been retired. It is no longer available for purchase or giveaway by the author.
See blog post for the decision on retiring both titles. https://bethmikell.wixsite.com/bethmi...
Aftermath has been retired. It is no longer available for purchase or giveaway by the author.
See blog post for the decision on retiring both titles. https://bethmikell.wixsite.com/bethmi...
April 14, 2017
good book
Displaying 1 - 21 of 21 reviews