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Wounded Hearts #1
Before She Was Mine
(6 hours and 56 minutes )
An accident isn’t always a mistake.
One heartbeat to fall in love with my best friend’s little sister.
One more to know I could never, ever let it show.
I was still good back then. Still honorable. Still whole.
I did the right thing and left her behind.
I went to war. I played with fire. The fire won.
She was never supposed to walk back into the wreckage of my life.
She was never supposed to see me like this.
Bad. Burned. Broken.
But it’s too late now. All it takes is one hot, reckless kiss to change everything.
And this time? I can’t walk away.
An accident isn’t always a mistake.
One heartbeat to fall in love with my best friend’s little sister.
One more to know I could never, ever let it show.
I was still good back then. Still honorable. Still whole.
I did the right thing and left her behind.
I went to war. I played with fire. The fire won.
She was never supposed to walk back into the wreckage of my life.
She was never supposed to see me like this.
Bad. Burned. Broken.
But it’s too late now. All it takes is one hot, reckless kiss to change everything.
And this time? I can’t walk away.
7 pages, Audible Audio
First published February 18, 2018
2891 people are currently reading
3634 people want to read
About the author
Amelia Wilde
158 books3,532 followersAmelia Wilde is a USA TODAY and Amazon Top 100 bestselling author of steamy contemporary romance and loves it a little too much. She lives in Michigan with her husband and daughters. She spends most of her time typing furiously on an iPad and appreciating the natural splendor of her home state from where she likes it best: inside.
Amelia does not negotiate with targeted harassment campaigns, but she appreciates the valuable time spent thinking about her books.
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Amelia does not negotiate with targeted harassment campaigns, but she appreciates the valuable time spent thinking about her books.
Subscribe to Amelia’s private mailing list for updates, giveaways, and regular chats by heading to readerlinks.com/l/525541.
Follow her on Facebook at readerlinks.com/l/525539 for all the latest giveaways, announcements, and funny jokes.
Follow Amelia on Instagram for photographic goodness at readerlinks.com/l/525542!
Click the big yellow button and follow Amelia on Amazon for new release updates at readerlinks.com/l/525544.
Want to see Amelia live? Join her exclusive reader group! Consider this your personal invitation. Here’s where to go: readerlinks.com/l/525538!
Don’t forget BookBub! Follow Amelia at readerlinks.com/l/525543.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 291 reviews
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December 3, 2018DNF @ 50% Not for me.
July 22, 2019
Boring.
February 17, 2018
"There was no before, I was always yours."
Holy binge reading batman!!! I started this book at 10:30 at night and then finished it by 2 the next afternoon! (but that's only because a girl has to sleep sometime) I am always a fan of the "brother's best friend" stories, but I really felt like this one took it to a whole other level! I felt like Summer was a very strong woman and exactly the kind of woman that Dayton needed to kick his butt into shape! But of coarse he did not feel like he was deserving of her attention (a fact that her own brother helped to drill into his brain). But she doesn't let him push her away. She keeps on him, pushing him to being the man that he should be, not the one that he made himself into after coming out of the army. It was a bit of a slow start for me, so I was quite surprised when all of the sudden I COULD NOT PUT IT DOWN!!! I HAD to know what was going to happen next. I had not read anything by Amelia Wilde before, but I am totally a fan now!
Holy binge reading batman!!! I started this book at 10:30 at night and then finished it by 2 the next afternoon! (but that's only because a girl has to sleep sometime) I am always a fan of the "brother's best friend" stories, but I really felt like this one took it to a whole other level! I felt like Summer was a very strong woman and exactly the kind of woman that Dayton needed to kick his butt into shape! But of coarse he did not feel like he was deserving of her attention (a fact that her own brother helped to drill into his brain). But she doesn't let him push her away. She keeps on him, pushing him to being the man that he should be, not the one that he made himself into after coming out of the army. It was a bit of a slow start for me, so I was quite surprised when all of the sudden I COULD NOT PUT IT DOWN!!! I HAD to know what was going to happen next. I had not read anything by Amelia Wilde before, but I am totally a fan now!
March 16, 2019
La verdad no se cuantas veces eh tratado de hacer esta review y se me borra todo ,pero bueno..
comenzemos todo esto se lleva a cabo en la ciudad de newyork que pienso visitar un futuro no muy legano ♥
Dayton es amigo de infancia de summer y su hermano tanto asi que se va a la guerra con el pero al volver son personas completamente diferente empezando por que dayton ya no tiene una piernaaaaaaaaa llorooo enserio jamas habia leido sobre un prota sin un miembro de su cuerpo pero summer es parte del programa ayuda a los veteranos y x asares del destino se vuelven a encontrar y ella le ayuda a encontrar trabajo y conseguir una mejor protesis enserio ame ah este hombre una vez encontro su camino hacia summer todo lo que paso y sufrio aunque batalle un poco con la lectura x que la autora dejaba muchos espacios en blancos en las historias o si no se brincaba de una cosa a otra y tu te quedas como WHAT pero obvio si puedes leerla sin perderte
otra cosa que me encanto es que hablo sobre los army man amo eso
Summer esta chica me gusto su personalidad y determinacion hacia su relacion y de tener la pelotas por llevar los pantalones aunque obvio si hubo partes donde decia valorate poquito pero en si una vez embarazada de dayton me encanto toda esas conversacion o cotidianidad que tenian mutuamente me encanto una vez nacio juanary ♥
y con ese final creo qe si leere el del hermano que se llevo los anillos y haber que pasa con winter la ex companera de cuarto de summer y mejor amiga de universidad
comenzemos todo esto se lleva a cabo en la ciudad de newyork que pienso visitar un futuro no muy legano ♥
Dayton es amigo de infancia de summer y su hermano tanto asi que se va a la guerra con el pero al volver son personas completamente diferente empezando por que dayton ya no tiene una piernaaaaaaaaa llorooo enserio jamas habia leido sobre un prota sin un miembro de su cuerpo pero summer es parte del programa ayuda a los veteranos y x asares del destino se vuelven a encontrar y ella le ayuda a encontrar trabajo y conseguir una mejor protesis enserio ame ah este hombre una vez encontro su camino hacia summer todo lo que paso y sufrio aunque batalle un poco con la lectura x que la autora dejaba muchos espacios en blancos en las historias o si no se brincaba de una cosa a otra y tu te quedas como WHAT pero obvio si puedes leerla sin perderte
otra cosa que me encanto es que hablo sobre los army man amo eso
Summer esta chica me gusto su personalidad y determinacion hacia su relacion y de tener la pelotas por llevar los pantalones aunque obvio si hubo partes donde decia valorate poquito pero en si una vez embarazada de dayton me encanto toda esas conversacion o cotidianidad que tenian mutuamente me encanto una vez nacio juanary ♥
y con ese final creo qe si leere el del hermano que se llevo los anillos y haber que pasa con winter la ex companera de cuarto de summer y mejor amiga de universidad
April 26, 2018
Reviews and other fun stuff posted on the Romance Rehab blog: http://www.romancerehab.com/
There was some stuff here that really worked for me, and some stuff that REALLY didn’t. I’ll start with the good:
1. I love a good second-chance romance. And overall, this one worked.
2. The writing was good and the story kept up a nice pace, even with some flashback scenes. (Note: I normally despise flashback scenes, but these were short and sweet and actually helped move the story along.)
3. There was a gritty realism to the story that I enjoyed. The PTSD, the struggles with getting a prosthetic that fit right, finding work after being injured during war time...it all felt very genuine. Nothing was really glossed over, and I appreciated the “truthiness” of the story.
Here’s what didn’t work for me:
1. Summer is just too damn perfect for my liking. Even when her own life (and the life of her unborn child) is threatened, she’s more concerned with helping others than she is with saving herself. I would’ve liked to see her go all momma bear on the “bad guy” like I imagine any pregnant lady in real life would have. I mean, if anyone had held a gun on me when I was nine months pregnant, they’d still be searching for pieces of that unfortunate asshat YEARS later.
2. I personally don’t mind the fact that Dayton was a hot mess when he reunited with Summer. A lot of shit happened to him, and it was OK that he wasn’t 100% whole. (And I don’t mean the missing leg. I mean emotionally whole) What wasn’t OK with me was the emotional distance and secrets he kept from Summer. If he would have spilled his guts early on about what was going on with him, I would’ve loved him as a hero. But because he kept secrets--secrets that could’ve endangered Summer--I found myself wanting to kick his ass from time to time.
3. The climax of the story was just too unrealistic for my liking. I won’t give anything away, but I seriously doubt things would’ve gone down like THAT in real life.
4. This is what I call a “stuffed” book. That means that the real story ends at about 25% on your Kindle, and the rest of the book is filler. You’ve got an extra book in there, and some snippets and other stuff that I didn’t buy the book for. I can’t speak for authors, of course, but it’s my opinion that authors in Kindle “stuff” their books because they get paid for pages read. (The more “stuff” in your book, the more people read, the more you get paid.) I don’t blame the author for this, but as a reader, it annoys the crap out of me. If I wanted your other books, I’d buy them! This to me is just further evidence that the KU system is broken and in need of adjustments ASAP.
But, minor gripes notwithstanding, this was a decent second chance romance. Fans of the whole “best friend’s sister” trope would probably really enjoy this one.
There was some stuff here that really worked for me, and some stuff that REALLY didn’t. I’ll start with the good:
1. I love a good second-chance romance. And overall, this one worked.
2. The writing was good and the story kept up a nice pace, even with some flashback scenes. (Note: I normally despise flashback scenes, but these were short and sweet and actually helped move the story along.)
3. There was a gritty realism to the story that I enjoyed. The PTSD, the struggles with getting a prosthetic that fit right, finding work after being injured during war time...it all felt very genuine. Nothing was really glossed over, and I appreciated the “truthiness” of the story.
Here’s what didn’t work for me:
1. Summer is just too damn perfect for my liking. Even when her own life (and the life of her unborn child) is threatened, she’s more concerned with helping others than she is with saving herself. I would’ve liked to see her go all momma bear on the “bad guy” like I imagine any pregnant lady in real life would have. I mean, if anyone had held a gun on me when I was nine months pregnant, they’d still be searching for pieces of that unfortunate asshat YEARS later.
2. I personally don’t mind the fact that Dayton was a hot mess when he reunited with Summer. A lot of shit happened to him, and it was OK that he wasn’t 100% whole. (And I don’t mean the missing leg. I mean emotionally whole) What wasn’t OK with me was the emotional distance and secrets he kept from Summer. If he would have spilled his guts early on about what was going on with him, I would’ve loved him as a hero. But because he kept secrets--secrets that could’ve endangered Summer--I found myself wanting to kick his ass from time to time.
3. The climax of the story was just too unrealistic for my liking. I won’t give anything away, but I seriously doubt things would’ve gone down like THAT in real life.
4. This is what I call a “stuffed” book. That means that the real story ends at about 25% on your Kindle, and the rest of the book is filler. You’ve got an extra book in there, and some snippets and other stuff that I didn’t buy the book for. I can’t speak for authors, of course, but it’s my opinion that authors in Kindle “stuff” their books because they get paid for pages read. (The more “stuff” in your book, the more people read, the more you get paid.) I don’t blame the author for this, but as a reader, it annoys the crap out of me. If I wanted your other books, I’d buy them! This to me is just further evidence that the KU system is broken and in need of adjustments ASAP.
But, minor gripes notwithstanding, this was a decent second chance romance. Fans of the whole “best friend’s sister” trope would probably really enjoy this one.
February 15, 2018
"This book surpassed all my expectations!!! An exquisite, evocative, heart-cracking romance with the most incredible ending."
"I received a complimentary copy of this book and have volunteered to leave a review."
Book rates: 5+stars
Plot: 5+stars
Characters: 5+starts
Writing: 5+stars
Pacing: 5+stars
Cover: 5+stars
My last read was again one of Amelia's Wilde earlier written books. As I have mentioned it on my review for Hate Loving You, the author has improved her writing skills since then and this is clearly visible in her latest books. For me, Before She Was Mine is one of her best books after Undone, for many reasons.
Let's make a little sum about what is going on in the story. I promise you not to reveal much. Dayton Nash and Summer Sullivan have a past. They grown up together even if Day is older than her pre few years. Best friend of her brother he meant to stay away from her. A kiss and eight years after back to civilization, half body and a broken soul, he sees Summer again. She meant to help him out with his life whereas she became much more than that. But Day had a raw past, a past that still hunts him. It's a deadly threat putting Summer into the fire zone before they even have their second chance. What is going to happen to her? What is going to happen to him? Well, if someone tries to read through the title Before She Was Mine while reading the book they would understand that it is a hell of a brainteaser!
I was thoroughly hooked by this story! I still feel the anxiety and turmoil hanging into my mind even after finish reading it; and the title is the cause of these feelings! My love for Summer and Dayton was instant! I didn't want them not to finally have the end they deserved. The author does a great job portray both characters with the most delicate approach. Summer is a heck of a character. I totally adore her!!! I could literally be in her shoes. I admired her inner power and the unfathomable love for all things worthy putting herself behind... The same goes for Day. He is created having the humanly aura of a man who had a raw life, having no chance for a nice future, trying to lighten his flaws. I admire his commitment to be a better man. For me, Day is the most thoughtful, loving man I ever seen in a book.
If I called Before She Was Mine a gripping story it might be the understatement of the year. Maybe riveting is more fitting. The story while unfolds is breathtaking. The plot unbelievable exquisite and action-packed. The romance steamy hot. The end incredible heartwarming. You want more? (*sigh) Before She Was Mine is exactly what I look for a book.
I hope I intrigued your imagination a little and make you grab the book, finding out what's really happening because there is no way to tell you myself.
Until next time, enjoy your free time reading great books with the most unforgettable stories.
Vivi
March 3, 2018
So, I only gave this book 2 stars because I really liked Summer. She was smart and brave and caring despite Dayton being a bit of a mess. To be honest though, I loved Dayton too. He was troubled and he was in pain but he looked past it all to make sure Summer got what she deserved. In the end, that's what we all want. No matter what you're going through, we want the person we love to be happy. Dayton proved he could be a great dad and I know he would be a wonderful husband.
What I didn't expect was the way this book ended. I like my HEA to actually have an ending. Instead we got part of it and a segway into Wes' story. Wes, who, by the way, I DO NOT like at all. I didn't see why he had to keep Summer and Dayton apart for so long. Kinda seemed stupid to me.
What I didn't expect was the way this book ended. I like my HEA to actually have an ending. Instead we got part of it and a segway into Wes' story. Wes, who, by the way, I DO NOT like at all. I didn't see why he had to keep Summer and Dayton apart for so long. Kinda seemed stupid to me.
October 20, 2021
2 1/2 stars.
May 31, 2020
I read this one awhile back. Dayton and Sunny grew up together. (he was her brothers BFF) We’ve seen this before…he’s overprotective which turns into love, but the brother is totally against a relationship. They share a kiss just before he and her bro deploy; he’s injured (amputated knee down) and doesn’t return home. They run into each other a few years later when he’s trying to get his life back on track. There’s a side plot of an angry criminal who’s set on revenge. Ok, it was fairly short and a freebie.
February 20, 2018
Amelia Wilde is a new author for me and she certainly will become a regular! Before She Was Mine hit all of my sweet spots in that it's a: military romance, best friend's little sister trope, and something else that would be too spoilery ;)
The Story. Dayton is coasting through life and embracing the punishment he feels that he deserves after a tragic accident in Afghanistan left him without part of his leg. Day's body is starting to protest all of the back breaking work that he enforces on it daily, and finds himself walking into Heroes on the Homefront in order to get leads on a decent job. What he doesn't expect is to find is Summer, his best friend's little sister, whom he hasn't seen in years. Summer is determined to help her childhood friend however she can, but she quickly realizes that Afghanistan has changed Dayton. Summer still gets glimpses of the man she used to know, and is willing to bring him back. The minute she locked eyes with her first crush, she knew she wouldn't stop until she made him hers. Should be easy right? Except her brother hates Dayton now, Dayton's past is surfacing in a dark way, and there is an unexpected surprise in store for Summer and Dayton. Life keeps throwing these two curveballs, but they are determined to make it through it.
Dayton. Dayton is broken and healing. He keeps living in the past, but life is making him move forward. Day is an honorable, sweet man who has made his fair share of mistakes, but he is beautiful. I loved Day and thought the journey that he took was so very real and heartbreaking, but so worth it in the end. Yes, sometimes his flight instinct kicked in, but he always came back to face the problem head on.
Summer. Summer was a fun character who was never quite able to let go of the first guy she ever loved. I was so happy and excited for Summer when she was reunited with Dayton. She was a persistent, stubborn woman who wanted to give Dayton the life he deserved. Summer is a hero in her own right and I thoroughly enjoyed her.
I recommend this book to those who love: quick reads, military romance, best friend's little sister, broken, strong heroes, and feisty, persistent heroines.
Overall Rating: 4/5 Stars!
Blog: www.radbabesread.com
The Story. Dayton is coasting through life and embracing the punishment he feels that he deserves after a tragic accident in Afghanistan left him without part of his leg. Day's body is starting to protest all of the back breaking work that he enforces on it daily, and finds himself walking into Heroes on the Homefront in order to get leads on a decent job. What he doesn't expect is to find is Summer, his best friend's little sister, whom he hasn't seen in years. Summer is determined to help her childhood friend however she can, but she quickly realizes that Afghanistan has changed Dayton. Summer still gets glimpses of the man she used to know, and is willing to bring him back. The minute she locked eyes with her first crush, she knew she wouldn't stop until she made him hers. Should be easy right? Except her brother hates Dayton now, Dayton's past is surfacing in a dark way, and there is an unexpected surprise in store for Summer and Dayton. Life keeps throwing these two curveballs, but they are determined to make it through it.
Dayton. Dayton is broken and healing. He keeps living in the past, but life is making him move forward. Day is an honorable, sweet man who has made his fair share of mistakes, but he is beautiful. I loved Day and thought the journey that he took was so very real and heartbreaking, but so worth it in the end. Yes, sometimes his flight instinct kicked in, but he always came back to face the problem head on.
Summer. Summer was a fun character who was never quite able to let go of the first guy she ever loved. I was so happy and excited for Summer when she was reunited with Dayton. She was a persistent, stubborn woman who wanted to give Dayton the life he deserved. Summer is a hero in her own right and I thoroughly enjoyed her.
I recommend this book to those who love: quick reads, military romance, best friend's little sister, broken, strong heroes, and feisty, persistent heroines.
Overall Rating: 4/5 Stars!
Blog: www.radbabesread.com
Want to read
January 10, 2020🎁 FREE on iBooks today (1/10/2020)! 🎁
February 20, 2018
OMFG!!! THIS is a First Time Author for me & Amelia Wilde DID NOT Disappoint!! From the moment I stared Before She Was Mine, it captured me & did not let me go!
Summer & Dayton story left a mark on my Soul. I LOVED how Amelia gives you glimpses of their past throughout the book since Summer's brother Wes is Best friends with Dayton while growing up.
Mr. Nash..a wounded warrior with a broken mind meets a veteran's service woman for replacement work- Heroes on the Homefront which turns out to someone he thought he lost long ago. Dayton is surprised to see Summer trying to help him out even though He feels unworthy. She is happy to see him which she thought she never would considering the fallout from your brother- his best friend. When Dayton see Summer again, it makes him want to be a Better Man but he has a dark shadow haunting him. Then One Missed appointment, a false address, alittle bit of Stalking, Heated Chemistry and you get One Big Life Changing Moment!
I am Not going give ANY Spoilers because this Book is Beautifully written, Funny, Sexy and deals with Depression/PTSD. It is a Second chance/ Best Friend Sister Romance. I LOVED THIS BOOK & its Rollercoaster Ride of Raw Emotions! THIS IS A MUST READ BOOK!!! 🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟
♡♡♡♡♡♡♡♡♡♡♡♡♡♡♡♡♡♡♡♡♡♡♡
His eyes go wide. “Are you sure about that?” He takes a deep breath. “That’s a big deal, Sunny. That’s—” Day sits up straight. “I don’t want to mess this up. He laughs a little. “The form, I mean. So if you’re not sure—
”“Day.”
“Yeah?”
“I’m sure about you. I waited for you for a decade. And every single one of those years was worth it.”
He looks faux-offended. “Only a decade?”
“I’d wait a thousand years if it meant being with you.” I’m deadly serious, on the verge of tears.
Dayton softens. “Sunny, I’d wait forever.” He leans in and kisses me. All the pain melts away under the possessive softness of his lips.
Summer & Dayton story left a mark on my Soul. I LOVED how Amelia gives you glimpses of their past throughout the book since Summer's brother Wes is Best friends with Dayton while growing up.
Mr. Nash..a wounded warrior with a broken mind meets a veteran's service woman for replacement work- Heroes on the Homefront which turns out to someone he thought he lost long ago. Dayton is surprised to see Summer trying to help him out even though He feels unworthy. She is happy to see him which she thought she never would considering the fallout from your brother- his best friend. When Dayton see Summer again, it makes him want to be a Better Man but he has a dark shadow haunting him. Then One Missed appointment, a false address, alittle bit of Stalking, Heated Chemistry and you get One Big Life Changing Moment!
I am Not going give ANY Spoilers because this Book is Beautifully written, Funny, Sexy and deals with Depression/PTSD. It is a Second chance/ Best Friend Sister Romance. I LOVED THIS BOOK & its Rollercoaster Ride of Raw Emotions! THIS IS A MUST READ BOOK!!! 🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟
♡♡♡♡♡♡♡♡♡♡♡♡♡♡♡♡♡♡♡♡♡♡♡
His eyes go wide. “Are you sure about that?” He takes a deep breath. “That’s a big deal, Sunny. That’s—” Day sits up straight. “I don’t want to mess this up. He laughs a little. “The form, I mean. So if you’re not sure—
”“Day.”
“Yeah?”
“I’m sure about you. I waited for you for a decade. And every single one of those years was worth it.”
He looks faux-offended. “Only a decade?”
“I’d wait a thousand years if it meant being with you.” I’m deadly serious, on the verge of tears.
Dayton softens. “Sunny, I’d wait forever.” He leans in and kisses me. All the pain melts away under the possessive softness of his lips.
February 21, 2018
I am in-between on this story. I am not big on second chance stories but I love Amelia's books. This is an emotional story and it hits some war issues.
Dayton has PTSD and is dealing with a lot. So when he sees Summer- his best friends sister- all grown up, desire decides to rear its head.
Summer is the strong person in this relationship as there is one. Since Dayton has a lot going on, she seems to be the stable one. Like I said I am on the fence with this story.
For all of Amelia's books, this one is just okay. I voluntarily read an advance reader copy for my honest review.
Dayton has PTSD and is dealing with a lot. So when he sees Summer- his best friends sister- all grown up, desire decides to rear its head.
Summer is the strong person in this relationship as there is one. Since Dayton has a lot going on, she seems to be the stable one. Like I said I am on the fence with this story.
For all of Amelia's books, this one is just okay. I voluntarily read an advance reader copy for my honest review.
February 17, 2018
OH! MY! GOSH!! What a book!!! The crush on Dayton from Summer was so cute as she was so much younger than him. When they met again later on in life, WOW!!!! I loved that part of the book!!!! The struggles that Day has since he had returned, was so heart wrenching, but so heart warming when he realised what he could have!! I Loved what Amelia did with each character and even Alexi! The twists were amazing and weren't over the top either! There were enough and not overboard with things that were happening in the book. SO happy that Wes came around in the end too! And what happens to Wes? I hope there's another book with his story!! Why was he in Newark? LOL! Hopefully we find out in another book for him!
February 24, 2018
I voluntarily reviewed an Advance Reader Copy of this book. Wow, this was a beautiful story. Amelia really captures a young Summer’s love crush for Dayton. Her brother Wes and Dayton were best friends since childhood and even went in the Marines together.
It was fate that they see each other after many years later. I loved the storyline’s unique concept and the characters were also well written.
I love reading about an underdog finding happiness and a purpose to live a more satisfying life. This book definitely has everything I love in a romance book. The ending of the book will leave craving for more.
It was fate that they see each other after many years later. I loved the storyline’s unique concept and the characters were also well written.
I love reading about an underdog finding happiness and a purpose to live a more satisfying life. This book definitely has everything I love in a romance book. The ending of the book will leave craving for more.
nope
December 3, 2018Nope because of all the reasons listed here:
https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
February 6, 2025
It was sort of adorable, but I can't say it was a contemporary read or met my expectations. I read It quite fast, the characters were relatable, but the book for me seemed almost clinical - a bunch of facts following one another through a certain timeline, the characters had "relationship" in the name of the definition, but I did not feel the spark between them and the ending felt off. I get that the author tried to sell off the series, but it was more their wedding day and should have been more about them not like ending the book saying - a person is missing. There is no connection there whatsoever. I don't think I will be picking up this author's book any time soon if ever.
December 27, 2022
What was the plot?
dnf-2024
November 14, 2024boring
February 18, 2024
I feel bamboozled. I don't like accidental pregnancies.
This whole thing is about accidental pregnancy. No warning anywhere in the synopsis. I only finished it, cause I paid full price and wasn't going to waste the money.
It's also about some really horrible thing Dey had done, that was sad and tragic but by no means his fault. Still, he was very emo about it.
Also not a fan of parallel storytelling though here, admittedly, it wasn't as annoying and was pretty quickly ended. However, I found it pretty icky that an 11yo girl was having sexual feelings about a 14yo boy. Made me cringe.
But despite all of this the biggest problem is, I have no idea why those two fell for each other. They met after a few years and it was all a sudden BOOM - here comes love. We got a few snippets of the past situations which involved them ant that was it. I think that maybe instead of half the sex scenes the author could maybe work more on that.
Big plus for representation, though. As someone who had a family member with a leg prothesis, I found this pretty accurate.
This whole thing is about accidental pregnancy. No warning anywhere in the synopsis. I only finished it, cause I paid full price and wasn't going to waste the money.
It's also about some really horrible thing Dey had done, that was sad and tragic but by no means his fault. Still, he was very emo about it.
Also not a fan of parallel storytelling though here, admittedly, it wasn't as annoying and was pretty quickly ended. However, I found it pretty icky that an 11yo girl was having sexual feelings about a 14yo boy. Made me cringe.
But despite all of this the biggest problem is, I have no idea why those two fell for each other. They met after a few years and it was all a sudden BOOM - here comes love. We got a few snippets of the past situations which involved them ant that was it. I think that maybe instead of half the sex scenes the author could maybe work more on that.
Big plus for representation, though. As someone who had a family member with a leg prothesis, I found this pretty accurate.
February 17, 2025
This had potential, but the pregnancy trope after the first night together? No.
What about the car accident? The police didn’t investigate? Day just ran? Someone d*ed and no one investigated the crash? This book makes zero sense.
What about the car accident? The police didn’t investigate? Day just ran? Someone d*ed and no one investigated the crash? This book makes zero sense.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
May 10, 2021
She fights for him a lot, He doesn’t...
It gets painful to read at some point...
It gets painful to read at some point...
February 22, 2018
This story is one full of emotions about Dayton and Summer. Dayton is a couple years older than Summer and is best friends with her brother, Wes. Day has always seemed larger than life and was there for Summer over the years without a word. Wes and Day join the service and prior to leaving from celebrating with his family after training he kisses Summer and Wes loses it! They serve their time and while in Afghanistan things go wrong and cause permanent damage, to their friendship and their bodies. Summer has been in love with Day forever and never thought he wanted anything to do with her. Years later while Summer is working at Heroes on the Homefront for veterans she finds Day sitting in her waiting room and is overcome with happiness! Dayton has had many struggles once he returns and holds onto the shame and blame of what has happened in his life. Once he hears Summer out does he think there might be something good. Summer fights to get Day to accept her help to get a better job and will not let him walk away from her again! I loved the connection between them along with how hot and sexy they are together. Once Day’s past catches up with him does he reach out to one who will have his back and help him. Will the overwhelming sadness of one cause Day to lose his chance at forever with his girl? The ending is great and I must say Amelia has set this story up to be the beginning of an outstanding series! Where oh where could Wes be??? I voluntarily reviewed an Advanced Reader Copy of this book.
February 21, 2018
My brother’s best friend, the hero...4.5 stars!
Dayton “Day” Nash never expected to run into his past. He’s back after a tour in Afghanistan with real injuries and suffering from PTSD. When he meets Summer Sullivan at Heroes On the Homefront as acting placement coordinator, he can’t get over how grown she is.
Everything that’s happened in his life seems to melt away in remembrance of his childhood. Summer, his best friend, Wes, and he were constant companions. And Summer never forgot about Day, her very first crush. Now every bit as confident and independent, Summer is determined to help her childhood friend. But Afghanistan has changed Dayton, and he’s fighting his demons and struggles with the loss of his legs. Day has made some bad choices that result in him living in squalor and he needs to hide this from Summer. I was heartbroken for Day. As they spend time together, the passion and desires are rekindled and it’s a chance to find happiness and love together.
Before She Was Mine is filled with heartache, drama, and emotion. I enjoyed that Ms. Wilde included backstory of Summer and Day to get the sense of the history they had together. A story with passion and heartwarming ending. Just forewarned the epilogue segues into the next book. I received and voluntarily reviewed an advance reader copy of this book.
Dayton “Day” Nash never expected to run into his past. He’s back after a tour in Afghanistan with real injuries and suffering from PTSD. When he meets Summer Sullivan at Heroes On the Homefront as acting placement coordinator, he can’t get over how grown she is.
Everything that’s happened in his life seems to melt away in remembrance of his childhood. Summer, his best friend, Wes, and he were constant companions. And Summer never forgot about Day, her very first crush. Now every bit as confident and independent, Summer is determined to help her childhood friend. But Afghanistan has changed Dayton, and he’s fighting his demons and struggles with the loss of his legs. Day has made some bad choices that result in him living in squalor and he needs to hide this from Summer. I was heartbroken for Day. As they spend time together, the passion and desires are rekindled and it’s a chance to find happiness and love together.
Before She Was Mine is filled with heartache, drama, and emotion. I enjoyed that Ms. Wilde included backstory of Summer and Day to get the sense of the history they had together. A story with passion and heartwarming ending. Just forewarned the epilogue segues into the next book. I received and voluntarily reviewed an advance reader copy of this book.
January 23, 2021
BEFORE SHE WAS MINE was recommended to me by my own husband. I buy so many books for the Kindle and too many stay not read. So I'm glad my husband recommended this one to me. It was really good.
Summer Sullivan had a huge crush on her older brother's best friend from a very early age. She would dream of the day that Dayton Nash would see her as more than a little sister. But her big brother, Wes, had warned every boy that his younger sister was off limits. That included his best friend Dayton. It was the night before Wes and Dayton left for boot camp that Summer sought out Dayton because she just wanted to say good-bye to him before he left. What she had not planned was for Dayton to give her a good-bye kiss. Her first kiss and the one that told her that Dayton was the only one for her. Her brother didn't react well to see them kissing. It tore the friendship apart and left Summer estranged from her brother.
Six years would pass without a word from Dayton. Until fate would bring them together. Summer was working as a Career Placement Coordinator at a Home-front Veteran Services office. When she saw him in the waiting room and he was her next client, she ran across the room to hug him. She had noway to know that being in Afghanistan had changed him drastically. He had lost half of his leg and had PTSD that left him with nightmares and trouble sleeping. Since his return home he had made some bad decisions. He thought he was never good enough for an angel like Summer. He didn't know that Summer Sullivan was not one to back down. She was going to help him and nothing would stop her. A wonderful story of a couple over coming a lot of obstacles standing in their way. Before She Was Mine? “There was no before. I've always been yours.”
Summer Sullivan had a huge crush on her older brother's best friend from a very early age. She would dream of the day that Dayton Nash would see her as more than a little sister. But her big brother, Wes, had warned every boy that his younger sister was off limits. That included his best friend Dayton. It was the night before Wes and Dayton left for boot camp that Summer sought out Dayton because she just wanted to say good-bye to him before he left. What she had not planned was for Dayton to give her a good-bye kiss. Her first kiss and the one that told her that Dayton was the only one for her. Her brother didn't react well to see them kissing. It tore the friendship apart and left Summer estranged from her brother.
Six years would pass without a word from Dayton. Until fate would bring them together. Summer was working as a Career Placement Coordinator at a Home-front Veteran Services office. When she saw him in the waiting room and he was her next client, she ran across the room to hug him. She had noway to know that being in Afghanistan had changed him drastically. He had lost half of his leg and had PTSD that left him with nightmares and trouble sleeping. Since his return home he had made some bad decisions. He thought he was never good enough for an angel like Summer. He didn't know that Summer Sullivan was not one to back down. She was going to help him and nothing would stop her. A wonderful story of a couple over coming a lot of obstacles standing in their way. Before She Was Mine? “There was no before. I've always been yours.”
February 20, 2018
This is a really good book! Summer has been crushing on her brother's best friend Dayton before she even understood what she felt for him. Dayton has always known that Summer was special but he's never felt good enough for her. Her brother Wes has been telling her for years to stay away from Dayton, that he's dangerous but Summer knows that Dayton is a good guy and he's always been her hero! After Day and Wes join the military, Summer and Day drift apart and go on with their lives until he shows up when she least expects him too. Dayton carries a lot of guilt and pain from past events and he's doing everything he can to avoid help and having a better life because he doesn't think he deserves it but Summer isn't gonna sit back and let that continue! He's always had her heart and now he has her on his side, helping him heal and showing him that he is the hero she always knew he was! Life throws some curve balls, the past comes back to haunt them and loyalties are tested but love always comes out on top! A really emotional story that makes you appreciate who and what you have in your life!
February 17, 2018
Amelia Wilde usually writes fun, fluffy, light-hearted rom-com. Before She Was Mine is a departure from that comedic trope and deals with the serious issue of PTSD. This is a second chance/brother's (former) best friend romance. Summer has crushed on her big brother's best friend, Dayton, since she was 8 years old. Her crush turns into unrequited first love when Dayton saves her from total embarrassment at their high school dance. But her brother, Wes, warns the two off of each other. And then Wes and Dayton enlist. And Dayton kisses Summer...
Three tours later, Dayton is discharged and like so many other vets, feels displaced, alone, and guilty. He and Summer reconnect when he has an appointment at her place of business. Every one of Wes's threats are forgotten as they give in to their buried desires.
The author explores the unrelenting guilt and unworthiness of PTSD. Although it is a heavy subject, Amelia lightens the tension with Whitney, Summer's best friend. Secrets, danger, and a decade-long twisted misunderstanding all race to a stunning conclusion. Or is there more?
Three tours later, Dayton is discharged and like so many other vets, feels displaced, alone, and guilty. He and Summer reconnect when he has an appointment at her place of business. Every one of Wes's threats are forgotten as they give in to their buried desires.
The author explores the unrelenting guilt and unworthiness of PTSD. Although it is a heavy subject, Amelia lightens the tension with Whitney, Summer's best friend. Secrets, danger, and a decade-long twisted misunderstanding all race to a stunning conclusion. Or is there more?
February 20, 2018
Woah.
That. Just. Happened.
*I have goosebumps!*
More than just a brother's best friend romance, the visceral emotional wreckage that wraps around Dayton and Summer is a tantalizing, heartbreaking, and suspense building!
EEK! Oh, the butterflies I have fluttering!
When Dayton walks into Summers office, not looking for the help he's told is needed, Dayton would never have expected to see Summer again, much less be the one to give him the spiel he does not want to hear.
Now that she was though... He can't, he is broken, dangerous and doesn't deserve someone like her. Her brother Wes would agree.
Summer has other ideas...
Amelia Wilde rolled out the red carpet for us on this one!
So much goes- folks- I could talk about this story all day!
You gotta read about these two beautifully broken loves and the high heat, heart-jerking, edge of your seat ride they go on to find their way to become one!
I cannot wait for Wes's story! * Excited *
I wish I could give this more than 5 Stars!!
That. Just. Happened.
*I have goosebumps!*
More than just a brother's best friend romance, the visceral emotional wreckage that wraps around Dayton and Summer is a tantalizing, heartbreaking, and suspense building!
EEK! Oh, the butterflies I have fluttering!
When Dayton walks into Summers office, not looking for the help he's told is needed, Dayton would never have expected to see Summer again, much less be the one to give him the spiel he does not want to hear.
Now that she was though... He can't, he is broken, dangerous and doesn't deserve someone like her. Her brother Wes would agree.
Summer has other ideas...
Amelia Wilde rolled out the red carpet for us on this one!
So much goes- folks- I could talk about this story all day!
You gotta read about these two beautifully broken loves and the high heat, heart-jerking, edge of your seat ride they go on to find their way to become one!
I cannot wait for Wes's story! * Excited *
I wish I could give this more than 5 Stars!!
February 22, 2018
I voluntarily reviewed an Advance Reader Copy of this book
Oh my goodness...what a fantastic, emotional, heartwarming/heartbreaking story. Yes I needed the tissues and yes it made me laugh but most of all it was a pleasure to read.
Summer and Dayton...wow. If ever there was a woman who loved with a passion it is Summer. She has always loved Dayton, her brothers best friend , even from a young age but never in a million years did she expect to see him at her workplace.....Heroes on the Homefront. Help for veterans and in this case from Afghanistan. She will do anything she can to love him, help him, support him. Dayton Nash does love Summer (Sunny) but doesn’t think he is good enough but when danger threatens he will do anything to protect her . A story that made you want more and the ending...oh boy!!!!
A fantastic story, loved it.
Oh my goodness...what a fantastic, emotional, heartwarming/heartbreaking story. Yes I needed the tissues and yes it made me laugh but most of all it was a pleasure to read.
Summer and Dayton...wow. If ever there was a woman who loved with a passion it is Summer. She has always loved Dayton, her brothers best friend , even from a young age but never in a million years did she expect to see him at her workplace.....Heroes on the Homefront. Help for veterans and in this case from Afghanistan. She will do anything she can to love him, help him, support him. Dayton Nash does love Summer (Sunny) but doesn’t think he is good enough but when danger threatens he will do anything to protect her . A story that made you want more and the ending...oh boy!!!!
A fantastic story, loved it.
February 21, 2018
This book was so good! Sunny and Dayton are friends as kids through her brother Wes. He protects her and at some point she realizes she has feelings for him as a teenager. Her brother forbids this connection, and they try to respect that. They can't stop their attraction, and it causes a rift in the friendship. Wes and Dayton join the army and leave her behind. When Dayton returns home, he is not the same. In a chance meeting, they are reunited, but Dayton still tries to stay away. Can they overcome their differences?
This is a great book. I was rooting for them right from the beginning. Great characters, great storyline. I will definitely read more from this author. I voluntarily received an ARC of the book.
This is a great book. I was rooting for them right from the beginning. Great characters, great storyline. I will definitely read more from this author. I voluntarily received an ARC of the book.
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