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Sooner Than You Think

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Mackenzie

When I first met Ryland Bennett, I was a blubbering mess.

When I quite literally ran into him the second time, he took me to the ER.

When we had seen each other the third time, that was our moment. The one that changed both of our lives.

The last 6 years have been the most difficult, and lonely, of my life. Moving to Charleston to help open a bakery that my best friend Talia had started, was the only thing keeping me going after tragedy had struck.

Then I met Ryland, and I don’t think falling in love had ever been easier. But as quickly as we fell in love, the end was dangling in front of us. A clock counting down. Both of us staring down the barrel of a gun, unsure if it was loaded, with a finger on the trigger.

I had to learn quickly that if you want something bad enough, you have to fight for it.


Ryland

Moments. Life is all collective moments in time that define you. And I’ve gone through several in my life that have changed me. Some for the worse, some for the better.

Mackenzie was a better. Actually, she was the best moment ever brought into my life. Just like every one of my moments with her have been. These are the ones I find myself hanging onto with every fiber of my soul now.

Because the good things in life are taken away sooner than you think.

181 pages, ebook

First published July 9, 2019

26 people are currently reading
119 people want to read

About the author

K. Michelle

3 books64 followers

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5 stars
29 (46%)
4 stars
19 (30%)
3 stars
7 (11%)
2 stars
5 (8%)
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2 (3%)
Displaying 1 - 23 of 23 reviews
Profile Image for Melanie (mells_view).
1,919 reviews392 followers
July 9, 2019
3.5 “Your ugly is beautiful Ry, whether you like it or not. Because your good makes getting through your ugly worth it.”

I can’t say too much about this story without spoiling it, but what I will say is prepare your heart.

Sooner Than You Think is a love story, and like any good love story it starts simply and with a sweet meet cute. But of course life happens. Real things happen to these characters and STYT is a REAL love story, that reminds you that when you find love you hold on to it no matter how many obstacles are thrown in the way. This story is one about the type of love that can help you navigate through nearly anything. Will everything be perfect? No, but love can persevere through the hardest of times. This is also a story that no matter how unexpectedly harsh life can be it can also be unexpectedly beautiful too. Don’t let the harsh and ugly make the beautiful times any less so.

This was a good debut novel for K. Michelle. The story is sweet yet DEEPLY emotional. There is some content that could be triggering for readers so I’ll include it under a spoiler tag below. All in all a good read.





*ARC
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Profile Image for The Worst Book Club.
6 reviews13 followers
July 16, 2019


* SPOILERS AHEAD - DO NOT READ IF YOU HAVEN'T FINISH THE WHOLE BOOK *


Did we ever tell you why we call ourselves "The Worst Book Club"? When we started thinking about creating the book club we listed our favorite books and stories and quickly realised we loved the ones full of heartbreak, pain, love, friendship, loses and, suffering. The impossible love? The cheating bastard? The friend who stole your man? Unexpected accidents and diseases? You name it, we got it all covered.

The minute we received the arc for Sooner Than You Think by K. Michelle we thought we were going to catch a break from those books and this one was going to be our happy book of the year.

Little did we now...

From the start Mac and Ry's chemistry was instant and undeniable, you could tell they had this connection and wanted to get closer. Even though both of them were overcoming personal struggles and had their fair amount of pain, their love was something they couldn't control or stop, it was like they were meant to be, meant to find each other and erase all the sad moments in their lives by creating new ones, bigger and special ones.



We fell in love quickly and deep with Ry and his need to protect Mackenzie from everything. We love him even more when he became her rock and refused to let her give up on her life. Tali-babes was another thing worth remembering about this book, this character was so much fun, kind and sweet, even though her life was nothing but that (ps. we can't wait for her book, we know it's gonna be AWESOME). The friendship Mac and Tali had was so amazing and comforting, they were more than friends, they were sisters, they were each other's strength and hope.

Overall this book gave us EVERYTHING we look for in our book club. We laughed, we cried and it surely left us wanting more of it. We totally recommend reading the first born baby book from the amazing K. Michelle and also, make sure you keep a few Kleenex next to you if you don't wanna end up looking like a sobbing mess. A total of ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ from us!



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Profile Image for Elsa Gomes (BookishAurora).
2,417 reviews301 followers
August 21, 2019
Rate: 4 / 5 stars

I started this after Broken Knight and it might have not been such a bright idea but I had no idea this book was gonna be such an emotional ride too. Mackenzie and Ryland had the cuttest love story. I loved how they met each other and got into a relationship. They gave me all the warm and fuzzy feels.

I can't say too much or I'll spoil the story but be prepared for anything, have tissues ready because this is an emotional, deep ride than will definitely hurt. Mackenzie and Ryalnd's love can withstand all, the journey isn't easy and it's one hurdle after the other but these two can overcome it all. Their love is deep and strong and you'll wish nothing but the best possible outcome for these two.

K. Michelle did an outstanding job with her debut novel. It has heart and soul and tells a deeply moving story that although it may break your heart is worth all the tears.

➳ARC kindly provided by author, in exchange for an honest review.

➳ Order at: Amazon UKAmazon US

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Profile Image for K. Michelle.
Author 3 books64 followers
June 27, 2019
I wrote it, I think it's great! :D

This was so special to me. I sat on it a while and then decided to take a wack at it. I'm so glad I did. I hope you all truly enjoy it.
Profile Image for Katie (readingaboutlove).
217 reviews
May 24, 2020
I’m writing this review as I sit here in tears over this heartbreakingly beautiful masterpiece of a book. There’s a warning in the synopsis of the book and I should’ve taken it seriously. Because whew. This book made me sob so many different times. Mackenzie and Ryland's story is gut-wrenching and glorious. It’s definitely a story that you should go into prepared to come out completely gobsmacked.

Mackenzie moved back to Charleston after her parents and little sister died in a tragic car accident. Six years later, she’s working at her best friend Talia’s bakery still struggling from the loneliness of her loss. When Ryland walks in one day to get coffee before work, Mackenzie finds herself struggling for words and completely tripping over herself at his good looks. When fate keeps throwing them together, Ryland ends up convincing Mackenzie to go on a date with him. The more time they spend together the more you see they are a perfect match and totally hilarious together! It seems like nothing can get in the way of the perfect couple, right?

Wrong. So wrong it will leave you clutching your book and cursing K. Michelle. Their story is raw and gritty. It’s full of sadness and the reality of a horrible thing that so many people have to face. I won’t spoil it and tell you what this couple endures, but I will tell you that this couple is one of the strongest I’ve ever read about. Their love for each other runs deep and it is so clearly shown throughout this book. I will remind you to remember that every couple's HEA is different and can change at the most inopportune of times. And Madison and Ryland’s HEA is one that is truly heartbreaking but worthy of many reads.

This is soon to be the first book in a series with Talia’s book coming next. Talia is such a dynamic character and I can’t wait to see her story pan out in Later Than You Think.
Profile Image for Melissa.
194 reviews3 followers
July 27, 2019
There were some parts about this book I loved and some parts that bored me. The storyline was great.... heartbreaking!
But there was way too many song titles listed and food items described in detail!
Profile Image for Marina.
80 reviews1 follower
May 4, 2020
WHAT? WHAT? WHAT?
Oh, I’m sorry did I repeat myself?!

Well I did not EXPECT THIS! This book took a turn in a whole new direction that I did NOT SEE COMING!

Well.. I CANNOT WAIT TO READ THE NEXT.

Jesus, the ending of all endings.

I’m exhausted.. I have to work tomorrow and my mind wants to read it again. But I know I have to sleep!

NOO, I’m going FOR IT! I HAVE TO!





2 reviews1 follower
July 18, 2019
I started reading at 7pm and finished at about 2am. I couldn't put it down.

The writer managed to make me laugh...make me blush...and make me cry all in one go. This book is extremely discriptive and this made me feel like I was there in every scene. I could smell the characters...I could feel what they were feeling and I could hear what they were hearing.

This is a love story...that everyone can relate to in some way, shape or form. Nothing is ever perfect...even though it might seem like it is from the outside. This book reminded me that you never know what someone else is going through...so always be kind and considerate.

I am blown away by the fact that this is the author's debut novel. She is extremely talented and I can't wait to see what she has in store for us next.
Profile Image for Julie-Blue Monday Girl Blog.
105 reviews21 followers
December 11, 2019
OMG, this book was something I wasn't expecting at all when I started reading it.
It's heartbreaking but it's also REAL and that's what I loved the most about it.
Both met in a very particular way and connect instantly, but that isn't what I loved the most about this. It was the fact that he was with her through EVERYTHING she had to endure and I think this is what it makes this story so special.
I sobbed like a crazy person while reading it, such a great job from the author.
I have no doubt her upcoming books will be as good at this one or even better.
Profile Image for Mybookscafe.
484 reviews14 followers
August 10, 2019
O.M.G!!!!!
This book was everything I didn't know, I was looking for. Mackenzie and Ryland will have you laughing, crying and then laughing again.
Overall the story was good. It flowed perfect throughout. The secondary characters were also entertaining. The friendship between Mackenzie and Talia is what every woman needs in their life, one true friend that is more a sister than friend.
Can't wait to read the second book
2 reviews
July 2, 2019
You get wrapped up in their perfect romance from the moment you start this book!

I was glued to these pages finding out how the story of Mackenzie and Ryland would unfold. The emotions that consume you while reading will Tear. You. Apart.

I was laughing, bawling, and getting mad right along side the characters and I would gladly go through it all again!
Profile Image for Aroha Spark.
266 reviews
September 8, 2019
Omg just wow

Beautifully written made me want to cry my heart out, lovely story of love and life and the struggles cancer pts go though wonderful strong characters just so worth the read peoples it was so touching thanks. I’ll be reading everything else you’ve ever wrote now that was so well done.
3 reviews1 follower
June 28, 2019
RYLAND, RYLAND, RYLAND! I need more of him.

This book definitely has all the feels. From the hurtful backstories, the romance, the unknown future. I loved every second of it.
1 review
July 10, 2019
The Characters are so easy to connect with, they keep your attention with anticipation and will take you on an emotional journey so grab your tissues! IT’S A MUST READ!
2 reviews
July 14, 2019
This is an amazing book in every way. Emotional and beautiful. Love the characters and you can feel the love between them all.
Cannot wait for the next one!!
23 reviews2 followers
December 29, 2020
Let's be honest, my review will not do this book justice. The author has poured her heart into this book and you can feel it in every word. This is Mackenzie and Ryland's story and its a love story that is funny, sweet and passionate as well as heartbreakingly raw, devastating and believable. The characters are beautifully written and realistic and i loved the banter between the main characters and their best friends. I'm not going to discuss the storyline as i think you should discover this beautiful book for yourself but be warned, its not an easy read but there is beauty within it and lots of it. Definitely Recommend.
Profile Image for J..
Author 2 books17 followers
April 12, 2020
Di I cry? Yes, yes I did. I was warned and I still shed some tears! It was such a cute and easy, quick read. Although it took a little time to get into the story, it gets very emotional and real which makes it all worth the while! I truly enjoyed this beautiful work!
Profile Image for Rachel Hager.
1,006 reviews14 followers
September 15, 2019
This is not a HEA. I know I always promised that to you guys, but this author asked me to read and review her books, and I couldn’t say no. Mackenzie and Ryland’s story is heart-wrenching. You won’t walk away unscathed. I’m in shambles right now…I’m starting book 2 because I don’t know what else to do with myself. How can I grieve? How can I move forward when so much was lost?

I always read the ending of the book before I start. Contrary to what most of you may believe, it doesn’t ruin it for me. It helps me prepare for the inevitable. I learned at a very young age that if things don’t go the way I expect them to, I lose my ability to function. I’m surprised I’ve kept my day job for as long as I have with the amount of sick days I’ve had to take for my mental health. I often wonder if people identify with characters and their emotional intelligence the way I do? The moment I read the dedication that Michelle wrote before the book began, I knew I’d be wrecked. I just didn’t realize the extent of the damage.

Mackenzie is an inspiration. Her strength to move forward through her life when she basically had nothing left, after her family died, plays a significant role in her relationship with Ryland. When she is diagnosed with cancer, her spirit falters a bit, but she never loses her drive. She’s a force to be reckoned with. Yes, this is a love story and cancer is involved. Hello? Nicholas Sparks? Is that you?

These stories are important. They are real life. People experience things like this: love and loss, every single day. It's not pretty and it's usually not very happy either...it leaves you uncomfortable. But nothing grows when you water the same spot over and over again. Allowing yourself be vulnerable and open to these types of stories only keeps you human. Beautifully emotional. Give this novel a chance; just make sure you have tissues.

Mackenzie meets Ryland when he steps into the bakery that she works at, and it’s love at first sight. Both of them can’t stop thinking about the other for days after that first meeting. Then, as fate would have it, Ryland bumps into Mackenzie again (like he physically pushes her over) and he ends up taking her to the hospital (foreshadowing?) Afterwards…the romance truly begins. And it’s a whirlwind. When you know, you know, right? They play it safe for so long, it almost feels like they missed out on time they could have been intimate together, if they hadn't been so worried about taking that next step. Ryland wanted to do things the “right way”…but I don’t think there is one certain path that every relationship should follow. Cancer certainly doesn’t allow for cautious optimism.

This story is about learning to accept and appreciate the time you’ve been given in this life. This story is about forgiveness. It’s about loss and grief and the choices that frame your existence. If you’re not ready to face the uncertainty that is death, think before you decide to dive into this journey. Time doesn’t heal all wounds, it just gives you perspective. The wounds remain.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Profile Image for Egle (readingfreakquotes).
113 reviews6 followers
September 1, 2019
“Life is all collective moments in time that define you”


Before picking this book read synopsis very careful and I mean it. I totally ignored some of the story twists hiding in the synopsis and even though I totally enjoyed the story, I don't think I would have picked this book if I paid closer attention to what was coming, just because I am a very sensitive reader. Don't get me wrong, I'm glad I didn't know what is coming and read this story, as it's totally worth it.

Mackenzie and Ryland’s love story is one of the most beautiful stories I have witnessed in the books in a long time. They both had a decent slice of life struggle and sadness before they meet each other, and no one else deserves happiness more than these two shattered souls. Even though Ryland had no intentions to open his broken heart to anyone any time soon, Mackenzie managed to break his protective walls brick by brick and build a strong long-lasting fort of love they both shared and cherished as long as it was meant to be.

Their story is rough but it is so real, full of moments that unfortunately some of us have experienced before and we don’t realise how painful and gritty it is until it affects you or your loved one. I can’t give you more details without spoiling the story, but if you are a sensitive reader you might want to consider and research this story well before starting to read the book. It’s so emotional, full of all kinds of feelings, weepy, hurtful, but so beautiful and romantic, it will pay all the tears you shed.

This is a debut novel, and even though some parts were a bit distracting and annoying, I couldn’t get my attention off this book until I finished the story. The author has amazing storytelling skills, totally enjoyable and well-developed characters had built an unforgettable and emotional story. The story that will crawl under your skin and will sit there for a while.

It’s a standalone book in a series with interconnecting characters. Can be read on its own, but if you read it, which I recommend you to do, you will be longing for the rest of the books in the series. Only then you will be able to breathe ;-)

Inhale
Exhale
Profile Image for Jay.
190 reviews
August 18, 2019
An instant love, and a whirlwind of emotions. This story will grab you and not let go. K. Michelle is a new to me author, and this is her debut. As her first book, it brings the feels and is well written.

Mackenzie is an awkward, sweet, tough, woman who has dealt with major loss. Ryland is a sweet, caring, loving man who has been burned in his past. The attraction between these two is instant and undeniable. Sparks fly, and feelings develop quickly. While their story is just beginning they are hit with a tough hurdle.

This book is filled with emotion, that I could feel through the writing. I could feel Mackenzie’s pain, her fight, and the love between her and Ryland. While this book was heartbreaking, it was a beautiful love story. It also had a strong friendship between Mackenzie and Talia.

Some love stories don’t have that forever love. Some stories are shorter, but you are lucky for having had the time you did, however long that may be. K. Michelle showed that in a lovely way.

This story will touch your heart and leave an impact. I would recommend you give this book a chance. “You got me?”
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Profile Image for Melinda.
517 reviews
August 20, 2019
Good read

Told in dual POV is a sweet love story. Mackenzie and Ryland have Insta chemistry and face lots of highs and lows with each other. I would guess this book is close to the authors heart and it bleeds and laughs right along with Mac and Ry.
Displaying 1 - 23 of 23 reviews

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