Meant To Be Different

Meant To Be #2

by Amelia Foster

As a teen, I had my life figured out: graduate and make my dream of being a bull riding champion a reality. That is right up until the goth girl transferred to my school. Georgia laid the snark on as thick as her eyeliner, but I saw through the toughened façade and fell for her. Hard.

She was willing to give up her own dream to follow me as I pursued my passion, but I couldn’t let her do that. So, I made the hardest decision of my life…and walked away.

It’s been twelve years since I left home without her and the all-grown-up Georgia is just as feisty and fiery as she was back then. It’s clear she has no intention of making redemption easy for me. Thankfully, I’m a patient man who knows what he wants. I’ve never stopped loving her, and I know she feels the same.

Back then I was a rhinestone cowboy, and she was a dark angel, complete opposites, yet we fell in love anyway. We weren’t meant to be like every other cookie cutter couple, we were meant to be different.

Genres: Romance, Contemporary Romance, Contemporary

302 pages, Kindle Edition

First published July 9, 2019

Reviews

[Evie Drae · Rating 5 out of 5]

Okay, my lovelies, unless you’ve been living under a rock you already know how much I love and adore Amelia Foster. As an author, as a person, and as a friend. I feel like one of the luckiest humans alive to call Ms. Foster my bestie, but don’t think I’m writing this review with bias coloring my words. I first read for her long before we developed the friendship we have today, and part of what made me fall in love was her gorgeous knack for the written word. And Meant to be Different is a shining example of her talent.

This is book two in the Meant to Be series, with each book staring a new and edibly delicious Carlisle boy. But before you go getting any thoughts, I’d like it to be known this particular Carlisle is MINE. Yes, you heard me right. Wyatt Carlisle is my numero uno book boyfriend. So, hands off, folks! I only let Gigi have a piece because she’s so dang cute… and I’m married… so someone’s gotta give the boy what he needs. 😁

The Meant to Be series is on the sweet, gently steamy side of romance. It’s exactly what you need for a pick-me-up summer read. And this second chances romance will positively melt you into a puddle. Wyatt makes some mistakes, just like our beloved Tanner does in book one, but both Carlisle boys prove they were raised right by going out of their way to make it up to the loves of their lives. And… *fans self*… Wyatt does it in a cowboy hat. What more could a gal ask for??

If you’re looking for a feel good romance that will grip you by the readerly heartstrings and keep you turning the page until that all-too-perfect HEA brings a sigh of relief, then this should top your TBR list!

[Lu Bielefeld]

DNF 36% - same old BS

[Pelusa Rivera · Rating 3 out of 5]

I didn't love the book, didn't hate it but I was expecting something a little different or a little more. I didn't get or agree with all the stars it had gotten and maybe that was my error since I had read the reviews I was probably expecting to get more. We meet Georgia and Wyatt who as teenagers really loved each other and thought that they were the one and would be together forever. However Wyatt leaves without Georgia and returns a decade later and thinks she is just going to fall in his arms, well that kind of happened. Even though Georgia claims that she will not give Wyatt a chance and she is going to stick to her guns since she can not seem to pick the right men and she was giving up on them. While having to spend time with Wyatt since her company is hired by him, she pretty much jumps in the bed with him even though she claims it will be simply friends with benefits but that is now how it turns out. Yet even though Wyatt claims he will never leave her the minute he has a problem he pushes her away, that would have been in it, yet he comes up with some sort of way to ask for forgiveness and done.

Rcvd and ARC at no cost to author..(netgalley) Voluntarily reviewed with my own thoughts and opinions

[T.K. Barber · Rating 5 out of 5]

I enjoyed this book so much. Gigi and Wyatt have some amazing chemistry and some sexxxxxy times. Her story was so heartbreaking, and even though it was the last thing (she thought) she wanted, she found love in a "stupid freaking cowboy."
Some deep feel punches in here, some funny bits, some intentionally cringey bits, hot bits, and such a wonderful ending!

[Felicia Grossman · Rating 5 out of 5]

I loved this book so much! I adored the dual timelines so you got to see who Georgia and Wyatt were and who they became, and do the compare and contrast with their original love story and their second chance. Their arc in the present was so perfect and drawn-out and well done, and really showed their growth as people as well as their amazing chemistry. They are just wonderful together, and their FAMILIES--all the side characters were so charismatic and unique and distinct, this is just such a sweet and lovely and warm book to read and enjoy.

[Etta Silby · Rating 5 out of 5]

Oh my gosh, you guys. This romance is just... it's everything. Wyatt might be my official favorite book boyfriend ever. He's sexy, rugged, and sweet. His charm is off the scales, and his love for Gigi gives me all the happiest of sighs. This was one of those reads I just wanted to dive inside and never resurface. It was a definite one-sitting read. I can't seem to get enough of Foster's gorgeous storytelling and am so thankful this is only book two in a series with more Carlisle men hotness to come!

[Jennifer · Rating 5 out of 5]

Back in January I read and reviewed Amelia Foster’s debut novel, Meant to Be Kept, and just in case you have forgotten, I loved it! So, of course, I am crazy excited to bring you my review of the next installment in her Meant to Be series, Meant to Be Different. You don’t need to have read Meant to Be Kept in order to enjoy this one, but if you did, you will remember that Tanner’s major screw-up occurred while on the road with his rodeo/cowboy brother, Wyatt. This is Wyatt’s story. Told in dual POV’s between Wyatt and his high school love, Georgia, this is a beautiful story about an unexpected couple, an unexpected love story, and love that stands the tests of time.

After a life of fame as a rodeo star, Wyatt decides to retire and the only thing on his mind is to return home to Asheville (after 12 years) to start a rodeo training program and to see Georgia again, of course. Georgia and Wyatt met in high school when she moved to Asheville from Tampa and she was the unusual goth girl, whereas, Wyatt was the epitome of southern charm, cowboy, and gentlemen wrapped all up in a pretty package. But alas, he broke her heart. When Georgia first sees Wyatt again after the way he left, she is reluctant to trust him, but it doesn’t take long to realize that all of those old feelings never really went away.

Ladies, prepare yourselves for Wyatt Carlisle because, my goodness, this man is a charmer! He’s sweet, sexy, mannerly, and so on, but the thing that truly gripped my heart was that he was just that way naturally. There was no added flair, acting, etc. This character hat Amelia Foster created was just honestly that good of a person.

Georgia (Gigi) was also an amazing character and believe when I say that this women had been through hell and back in the span of 12 or so years. Constantly battling whether to take care of her family or take care of herself, this woman still managed to maintain a fantastic sense of humor and I adored her for it.

Much like Foster’s debut novel, this one has a lot to do with forgiveness. Although the subject matter in Meant to Be Different is nothing like its predecessor, Meant to Be Kept, there is still the ongoing theme regarding forgiveness. Moreover, Foster clearly celebrates those unlikely or somewhat mismatched couples, which I loved! While growing up, Wyatt didn’t care about her dark eyeliner, fishnets, and Doc Martens and how they strongly contrasted with his cowboy boots and hat. This story is about finding your person, regardless of the package they may come in, loving them with every fiber of your soul, and learning to forgive and move on when one or the other screws up.

As I reflect on this novel, I can’t say that I truly adored it as much as Amelia Foster’s debut, however, this one was wonderful nonetheless. I realize that I shouldn’t compare the two because it’s not as if it were a sequel, so just as it is, it’s a highly recommended read. Especially for those who love second-chance romances, you will eat this one up.

*A special thanks to Amelia Foster for providing this ARC in exchange for my honest review!

[Kat · Rating 3 out of 5]

I absolutely LOVE this cover! It gives all the perfect feels for a cozy, country romance.

If you love second chances and extra slow-burn, this one might be for you! There really wasn't as much heat between the two characters until the last few pages. You could feel their true passion for each other leaving me on the edge of my seat until they FINALLY get together. 

One of my favorite parts in this love story is the nicknames they have for each other. I don't know what it is about them, but it completely gives me all the heartwarming feels. 

I gave this one 3 out of 5 stars. If you are looking for a smaller heat level with all the intensity, this romance might be for you!

[Deana Birch · Rating 5 out of 5]

If you love perfect banter, this is your book.


These characters have so much depth, so much perfectly integrated backstory, so much hurt one has to get past.

What a perfect journey. I totally need more. Like babies and puppies - can't wait for book three of this series just to hear Wyatt again.

[Brandy Roberts · Rating 4 out of 5]

Meant to be different would be the second story in the meant to be series and van be read as a standalone but would recommend that you read them in order . I'm a sucker for a second chance romance I always love seeing how to couple come back to one another sometimes my heart hurts that they were separated in the first place but overjoyed when they finally get back together . There wasn't anything I didn't like about this story everything was just perfect and the flow was done really well . I can't wait to read more by the author I expect greatness in future reads .

[Lydia's Bookshelf · Rating 5 out of 5]

Guys, I am obsessed with this series and this is only book #2! I absolutely loved book 1, Meant to be Kept, so I immediately purchased book 2, Meant to be Different, on release day. If you have not read book 1, you don't need to do so in order to enjoy this one, but I highly recommend you do because it's amazing!! Seriously, get it. Book 1 follows Tanner's story (Wyatt's brother).

Okay, so having already "met" Wyatt, I was beyond ready for his book. I sure do love a sexy bull-riding cowboy, so to say I was excited would be an understatement, and Ms. Foster delivered!

Wyatt and Gigi met in high school and when people say "opposites attract," they have these two in mind. Wyatt was a cowboy-hat-wearing future bull rider and Gigi was a black-lipstick-wearing goth girl. But they clicked, and right off the bat, their chemistry was very much there. It was undeniable and I loved how much they "got" each other and how they were there, truly there, for each other in times of need and celebration.

Normally, I am not a huge fan of time jumps (past to present to past to present again) because I'm just not a patient human, but the way Amelia Foster developed this story WORKED (same goes for book 1). It allowed me to fully walk the emotional journey that was Wyatt and Gigi's relationship and feel all the emotions: anger, passion, heartbreak, panic, and love. I got to see first hand why some decisions were made and fall in love with the characters even more. Wyatt had done what he thought was best for Georgia 12 years ago, and now, trying to rekindle that love and earn her trust once more proved to be a challenge, but well worth the heartache. THE. FEELS. You guys, Wyatt is a charmer and let me tell ya, get ready because he will make you swoon.

I loved both Wyatt and Gigi and loved, LOVED, even more, their relationship. This was an addictive second-chance romance I highly recommend! A top 2019 fave! FIVE STARS!

[Yolanda McGee~Veronica's Reading Vault · Rating 4 out of 5]

Meant To Be Different is a refreshing, hilarious and enjoyable second chance romance. It’s a slow burn romance with a great storyline and once I started it, I couldn’t put it down. The comedic banter between Wyatt and Georgia really did it for me and made me laugh out loud a lot. Especially Georgia with her smart mouth and feisty personality, I loved that she didn’t hold back one bit. It was obvious that Wyatt loved Georgia’s fiery demeanor and he gave just as much as he got. Their chemistry, dialogue and endearing nicknames for each other made for a very entertaining book.

Meant To Be Different is the second book about the Carlisle brothers and can definitely be read as a stand-alone. I’m hopeful that Ms. Foster will write books for the other two brothers, Connor and Dean. I definitely recommend reading this book.

[Barbara · Rating 4 out of 5]

Book two in the Meant To Be series a well written story about a second chance for Georgia and Wyatt after twelve years apart. I enjoyed reading this book. I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Romance4thebeach · Rating 4 out of 5]

What can I say about this series other than that you should read it? Amelia Foster is a master storyteller who allows us a glimpse into teen love, second chances, and even emotional heartbreak. This sequel in the “Meant to Be” series holds up just as strongly to the premier novel, which is really saying something considering that was also a beautiful roller-coaster of a read that gave me all the feels. Something I’ve appreciated with this series so far is that while we see a continuation of certain themes, such as the brilliant use of flashbacks and alternating points of view between the lead characters, each novel really is distinct.

It never felt as though this second book was merely a repeat of the one which came before it. Wyatt and Gigi’s story is unique to them in a way that sets them apart from the couple of the first novel, even though that one featured Wyatt’s older brother. It feels as though we are once again witnessing a true romance play out between two very real people that we’ve come to know intimately through the author’s words. Wyatt and Gigi demonstrate that their teenage love which ended 12 years ago may not be entirely over, but simply paused. This rhinestone cowboy may have just found a second chance at love with his dark angel.

While the consistent use of flashbacks might not have been as mind-blowingly spectacular as their use in book one, they still served a very important and alluring purpose of highlighting the foundation of Wyatt and Gigi’s relationship all those years ago. They seemed like polar opposites when they first met in high school. She was the new goth girl in town, and he was the popular wannabe rodeo stud that all the girls drooled over. Somehow this rhinestone cowboy is able to draw this dark angel out of her shell, and they find love together. But this story is more than just a simple teenage romance. We discover that Gigi’s surly attitude at moving to this small North Carolina town is born of the fact that her mother is in the last stages of cancer, and it’s just a matter of time before she’s gone from this world.

Heavy stuff, I know. The beauty though of her relationship with Wyatt is that he manages to pull her out of the constant limbo she’s experiencing at home, bouncing constantly between life and the imminent arrival of her mother’s death, to find an escape where she can simply be herself. To find a few days a week where she doesn’t have to be constantly worrying about her mother’s illness, or how her dad is struggling with losing the love of his life. What started as a simple dalliance to take her mind off the harsh realities of life soon turns into an example of true love. Wyatt stands by Gigi in everything, and she too supports him through some of his own life’s struggles. They might experience a few bumps in the road, just like with any new relationship, but they soon discover the key to their love is always being open with each other when life tries to get in the way. Wyatt especially acknowledges that the depth of their love isn’t like every other typical teenage romance. It’s real. They’ll make it through anything life throws at them, and they’ll be together past their teenage years, because their love is meant to be different. Or is it?

We know pretty much from the opening page, actually from the synopsis itself, that Wyatt left Gigi behind all those years ago to pursue his dreams of becoming a rodeo star bull rider. It seems that in spite of all their vows that their love was “meant to be different”, it seems to have succumbed to defeat just like any other teenage romance. Throughout the novel we see a constant switch back and forth of Wyatt trying to win Gigi back in the present, while simultaneously seeing how their love played out in the past. As we see how deep of a connection these two had when they were young, we see that their teenage romance in fact wasn’t merely just a passing fancy. They meant everything to each other. So where did it all go wrong, and more importantly, will Wyatt be able to convince Gigi that he’s worth a second chance? When they first met he had to fight for her to see how good they could be together, and all these years later he’s going through that same fight of trying to win her trust.

Something that really did surprise me as we saw the love between Wyatt and Gigi play out in both the past and the present, was that we never witnessed that one key moment where Wyatt decided to leave. We hear his explanation to Gigi when they reconnect, but we never actually get a flashback scene where we see him drive off into the sunset. I was kind of confused at first, but the more I thought about it, the more I realized that the purpose of these flashbacks was not to build up to the point where he left. Instead, it was to show the development of their love up until that point. To demonstrate how Wyatt was there for Gigi through every hardship, including standing as a pillar when her mother eventually died. He also succeeded in showing her that life was still worth living amidst such pain. His decision to leave was not out of selfishness. As we uncover his reasoning behind the decision we realize it may have been the most selfless decision of his life. What mattered most was not that we saw how or when he left, but rather that he came back. The author manages to convince us through these flashbacks that Wyatt is in fact worthy of a second chance in the present, and we can only hold our breath in anticipation that Gigi remembers why their love is worth fighting for.

[Jess Heyle · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book is the second in the series. The first, Meant to be Kept, was a beautiful tale of taking love for granted. This book, however, has so many interwoven story-lines that keep your interest right from the start, full to the brim with emotion, without becoming overwhelming or confusing. This story touches on so many different areas from loss, betrayal, longing, grief and of course love. And that's not even getting into the relatable, snarky, sassy, beautiful characters who make you fall a little more in love with every page.

Wyatt and Gigi are my favourite kind of couple, hearts and romance combined with sass and sarcasm. Seeing the growth of them as individuals and their interactions from teens to adults is really well done. The writing of the story is beautiful, similarly to the prequel, there are so many phrases and sections I would deem 'quotable' that make you stop for a minute just to appreciate the beauty of the wording.

Romance is my happy place, but finding a book that has characters and a story line that draw me in combined with a writing style that I adore is like magic. This has all three and more!

[Momma Says: To Read or Not to Read · Rating 4 out of 5]

Meant to Be Different is what I would call a steamy-lite but still sexy, second chance romance. We also get a healthy dose of opposites attract with Wyatt and Georgia, which is always fun. This is the second book in Foster's Meant To Be series, and it's done similarly to the first book with the story moving back and forth in the timeline. I've seen that done a lot to get important backstory across without info dumps, and depending on how it's done, the story can either sink or swim - this one swims with style. Amelia Foster may be new to this writing gig, but she knows her stuff because it all just works. We not only get Wyatt and Georgia's story from the beginning, we also get it in dual points of view. The transitions are smooth and both parts of the story are equally interesting.
As far as our romantic couple, Wyatt and Georgia have a chemistry that is off the charts. It's impossible not to love Wyatt whether he's being sweet or silly, and Georgia's sass is the perfect compliment to his determination to win her back. The story is sexy without being explicit, and I particularly like the way the emotional bond between Wyatt and Georgia shines through without all the steam. I would've liked a little more of the family dynamic between Wyatt and his brothers. We did get a fair amount of Wyatt in the first book, but there have only been small bits of the other two brothers. We get a good look at Georgia's family and what's going on there, but I really wanted more of Wyatt's family, which is the only real drawback for me with this one. Nevertheless, I surely do love this couple, and I enjoyed their story.
All in all, this second book from Amelia Foster is sweet, sexy, witty, and angsty. It certainly has its share of heartbreak, but it's wonderfully tempered with hope. The Meant To Be series is a must read and I can't wait to see what this shining star does next.

[Sheila · Rating 4 out of 5]

Loved Wyatt and Gigi's story about heartbreaking sacrifice and second chances. They were high school sweethearts but he wanted to follow the rodeo so he leaves to follow is passion but returns twelve years later. This is so emotional and the chemistry between Wyatt and Gigi is just too sexy and they are made for each other.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Heather W · Rating 4 out of 5]

I enjoyed this second chance romance. Georgia and Wyatt went their separate ways after high school but twelve years later he comes back and wants a second chance. She is not going to make it easy on him.

The characters are charming and the banter between them is a lot of fun. The story is nice and flows well. I liked the flashbacks because it shows their characters present and past.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[poppy · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is a really sweet second chance romance. This is the second book in the series and is Georgia and Wyatt's book I just loved the banter between these two it had me laughing out loud you will want to comfy before starting this book because once you start it you won't want to put it down this is a super read I would definitely recommend it.

[KL Cassanello · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wyatt's ready to retire from the rodeo circuit, and go after the one thing he really wants: the girl he gave up 12 years ago. Georgia has thrown herself into her work, and has a successful career to show for it. They couldn't be more different. And yet, the chemistry between them is undeniable. He wants her back, and she's not going to let him in. Well, maybe not. Well, maybe... if he really jumps through hoops for her. These are two strong and hard-headed people, not sure it they want the same thing anymore, but trying to move forward. I really liked this book - I do have a soft spot for a hot cowboy. This is my first book from this author - will go back and read the other one in the series, and look for more from her in the future.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Jen · Rating 4 out of 5]

I enjoyed reading this story, meet Georgia and Wyatt. In high school, these two were the least likely people seen as a successful couple. Georgia was into the goth theme back then and Wyatt was a cowboy just waiting to school to finish so that he could go out and become a bull rider champion. After graduation, Wyatt knew that Georgia would follow him but he didn't want that for her. He wanted to see her chase her dreams. He split town and didn't look back until twelve years later and he is back. Now Wyatt wants Georgia back in his life.........Georgia is not even close to being ready to let him back into her heart again! This was a really entertaining story that I absolutely enjoyed, I especially loved the feisty Georgia and the humor. I was unaware that this book was part of a series, I did not read book one and found that this book could be read as a standalone.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Kimberly · Rating 4 out of 5]

The book is a good romance read. The story has a good story line. The characters are good, and they have good chemistry. The story is an enjoyable second chance romance read.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Pamela · Rating 4 out of 5]

Georgia and Wyatt are from completely different worlds but the attraction between them can't be denied. This was a sweet, sassy romance with a cute couple. I enjoyed reading this story.

I received a copy of this book and am leaving a review.

[Lisa · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wyatt and Gigi were lucky enough to get a second chance. Emotional, sad at times, amazing chemistry, second chances. Better than 5 stars.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Read.Review.Repeat Blog · Rating 5 out of 5]

Meant to be Different is the second book in the Meant to be series, and I loved reading every bit. I enjoyed this second chance romance for Wyatt and Georgia. After being separated for over ten years Wyatt is ready to start again with the one woman who has always held his heart. I love this series and look forward to reading more by this author.

[Dawn Foster · Rating 5 out of 5]

Meant to be Different is the second book in the Meant to be series, and I loved reading every bit. I enjoyed this second chance romance for Wyatt and Georgia. After being separated for over ten years Wyatt is ready to start again with the one woman who has always held his heart. I love this series and look forward to reading more by this author.

[Wendy Livingstone · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is the second book in this series, and can be read as a standalone. Georgia and Wyatt were high school sweethearts, until he left to follow his dream, leaving Gigi heartbroken behind. Now 12 years later Wyatt has retired from his rodeo life, and returns home, hoping to redeem himself to Gigi. My heart broke for Gigi and all that she endured through her life. This is a well written story which is told in dual POV, and is a raw, gritty, heartbreaking, and humorous second chance romance. I look forward to reading more from this talented author, whose work I recommend.

[Katie (readingaboutlove) · Rating 4 out of 5]

When I read the synopsis for this book, I knew I had to read it! Opposites attract, second chance romance, and just the right amount of angst! This book has it all! And it definitely delivers! This couple proves that opposites create for one explosive story with lots and lots of banter! I never knew how much I needed a book like this in my life and I’m glad I decided to try out a new author!

Throughout this story, we see into Wyatt and Georgia’s past relationship as they reconnect in the present time. I love that we are able to actually read about and experience the first time these characters fell for each other instead of a short retelling which normally happens in books. It’s really refreshing to understand more about why the couple fell in love, to begin with, and it makes for an even better second chance! And let me tell you, these characters will take you on a rollercoaster of emotions as they find their way back to each other. But when they finally do, it’s explosive just like them.

This book is the second book in The Meant To Be Series, but it can absolutely be read as a standalone. This was the first book I read in the series and I will definitely be going back to read book one and counting down the days until book three!

[AnneKR · Rating 5 out of 5]

Second chances

Wyatt & Georgia were high school sweethearts, and when Wyatt left her behind she had no choice but to move on broken-hearted. Years later Wyatt’s returned home to start building a life with his Gigi by his side, but she’s no longer the girl who stood by him & would do anything for him. She has a great career, is focused, but still stubborn & sassy as ever. She remembers how she felt when Wyatt left her & she is not eager to go down that road again. But she will soon realize the heart wants who it wants & she is helpless to stop it. A good second chance told in both POV’s with flashbacks to their past. Looking forward to reading more from this author!

[Chronic Chihuahua · Rating 1 out of 5]

Thats It? Wow, She Forgave Him So Easy I Now Don't Believe Anything Happens In Her Life

Evidently this woman is not a carer, for she falls for bullshit so easy.

Imagine believing he loves you when he abandoned you for over a decade.

Wheres the consistent choices that facilitate love?

His Narcissistic longing isn't love.

The way Tanner normalises abandonment, means I can't trust he won't forgice Wyatt for abandoning people again.

Ugh.

I wanted blood.