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Beyond The Pale
My whole life I’ve known Finn Jeffries and Brady Sterling would be my undoing.
The three of us were inseparable, but growing up with two boys as your best friends comes with it’s own certain type of growing pains.
As a child, Finn was wild and free, and grew up to be a devilishly handsome man with a smirk that frustrated me as much as it did other things to me.
Brady was brave and loyal, and the kind of man he grew into didn't surprise me a bit: devoted and gallant, with a handsome, trustworthy face that made my heart beat faster.
We went our separate ways for college, but now it’s eight years later and a pact we made back then has brought us back to our hometown.
Back to the complicated situation we ran from.
Back to the love triangle we never really escaped.
I love them both, and it’s time for me to make a choice.
I’ve always known one of them would be my forever, I just never knew which one.
And I still don’t.
284 pages, Kindle Edition
First published January 1, 2019
327 people are currently reading
740 people want to read
About the author
Jennifer Millikin
26 books2,087 followersJennifer Millikin is a two-time recipient of the Readers Favorite award. She writes contemporary fiction with elements of romance, emotion, and hard-learned lessons. Her characters are flawed and authentic, and some parts of her stories are more fact than fiction.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 78 reviews
October 20, 2019
***Actual Rating: 4/5 Gut-Feeling Stars***
Remember how I usually don’t go for books with love triangles? Well, I’m really glad I decide to make a change this time and pick this book up. Before giving this book a try, I knew it’d be about an antsy love triangle among three best childhood friends, Brady, Finn, and Lennon. The inseparable threesome. Brady is always this considerate, sweet cinnamon-roll boy-next-door who has a privileged upbringing and was born with a silver spoon in his mouth.
His entire life has been incredibly successful–went to a private high school when his other two best friends went to a local school and got in some prestigious college and became one of the best lawyers in the country–on the contrary, Finn, the rebellious, smartass guy who lives in a trailer with his cancer-battling uncle. He just lost his job as an app developer and has yet to fight his way back in the competitive field of technology. He’s also the kid who shoplifted when he was little because he could barely sustain basic human necessities and doesn’t have much to offer when it comes to Lennon, the girl whom both of them so desperately want to claim.
What I love most about Lennon, Brady, and Finn’s story is that these characters aren’t flawless. Despite the fact that Brady seems to be the most perfect guy compared to Finn, his inner persona conflicts a lot due to the images he’s forced to keep and the true essence of who he actually is under the surface. Undoubtedly, he’s the most natural, most at ease when being around Finn and Lennon, but the majority of him still has to carry the baggage of being the son of a well-known, influential father.
As for Finn, awww, he’s like the modern version of Heathcliff, in my opinion. Even though his story isn’t as tragic as our beloved classic character’s, the hardship and obstacles between him and Lennon he has to deal with truly move me deeply as his love/loyalty to the girl he covets never wavers. He works hard, pursues his dreams hard, and falls in love harder than anybody else, and I really admire him for all his endeavor.
*Ugh, all the feels and heartaches.* Since this book is all about love triangle and tough decision for Lennon, we can’t escape the forthcoming heartbreaks and devastation for either of the guy…or both. Interestingly, much to my surprise, Jennifer manages to beautifully depict those heartbreaking moments and weaves the shattered pieces of hearts into something profoundly touching and human. That’s why this story still stays with me long after I’m finished.
Last but definitely not least, I’d like to wrap up my review with my most favorite quote among all. The above quote is so incredibly relatable to me and I’m sure with each passing day, and every single journey we’ve experienced, or are all experiencing, we will feel the same and truly grasp the meaningfulness of this life we’re living and breathing.
Throughout Lennon, Finn, and Brady’s story, they not only show me how amazing life is because you may reunite with the ones you love even after all those years filled with ups and downs, but they also demonstrate what our hearts are comprised of. All I’m saying is that Jennifer impresses me with her previous work, Good on Paper, and now she surprises me with a love triangle story with the trope of childhood-friends-turn-lovers once again. I’m quite certain she will not fail to continue catching me off-guard in the future.
Besides, her next novel, One Good Thing, which will be released on April 7th, 2020, will be someone’s (one of our lovely main characters’) happily-ever-after, and I seriously cannot wait to read it!! Therefore, without further hesitation, please go give this book a try because I promise you’ll be in love with Lennon, Brady, and Finn as much as I do. ❤
***Huge thanks to InkSlinger PR and the author for providing me with an e-ARC in exchange for an honest review.***
beyond the pale:
outrageous and intolerable. Outside the limits of acceptable behavior.
Remember how I usually don’t go for books with love triangles? Well, I’m really glad I decide to make a change this time and pick this book up. Before giving this book a try, I knew it’d be about an antsy love triangle among three best childhood friends, Brady, Finn, and Lennon. The inseparable threesome. Brady is always this considerate, sweet cinnamon-roll boy-next-door who has a privileged upbringing and was born with a silver spoon in his mouth.
His entire life has been incredibly successful–went to a private high school when his other two best friends went to a local school and got in some prestigious college and became one of the best lawyers in the country–on the contrary, Finn, the rebellious, smartass guy who lives in a trailer with his cancer-battling uncle. He just lost his job as an app developer and has yet to fight his way back in the competitive field of technology. He’s also the kid who shoplifted when he was little because he could barely sustain basic human necessities and doesn’t have much to offer when it comes to Lennon, the girl whom both of them so desperately want to claim.
Or would we be in a fucked-up triangle, never moving forward, just buzzing along our axis and stopping when we bumped into each other at our shared forty-five-degree angles?
What I love most about Lennon, Brady, and Finn’s story is that these characters aren’t flawless. Despite the fact that Brady seems to be the most perfect guy compared to Finn, his inner persona conflicts a lot due to the images he’s forced to keep and the true essence of who he actually is under the surface. Undoubtedly, he’s the most natural, most at ease when being around Finn and Lennon, but the majority of him still has to carry the baggage of being the son of a well-known, influential father.
As for Finn, awww, he’s like the modern version of Heathcliff, in my opinion. Even though his story isn’t as tragic as our beloved classic character’s, the hardship and obstacles between him and Lennon he has to deal with truly move me deeply as his love/loyalty to the girl he covets never wavers. He works hard, pursues his dreams hard, and falls in love harder than anybody else, and I really admire him for all his endeavor.
No longer was Lennon in my arms, but in her place, I held her apology.
*Ugh, all the feels and heartaches.* Since this book is all about love triangle and tough decision for Lennon, we can’t escape the forthcoming heartbreaks and devastation for either of the guy…or both. Interestingly, much to my surprise, Jennifer manages to beautifully depict those heartbreaking moments and weaves the shattered pieces of hearts into something profoundly touching and human. That’s why this story still stays with me long after I’m finished.
Maybe that’s how life goes. Perhaps we aren’t a collection of the hearts we break, the love we fall into, or the experiences we have. We start out whole, and as we go through life, we carve out pieces of ourselves and leave them behind. Maybe we pick up pieces of others, and stitch them onto us, until we are a fabric made of everyone else.
Last but definitely not least, I’d like to wrap up my review with my most favorite quote among all. The above quote is so incredibly relatable to me and I’m sure with each passing day, and every single journey we’ve experienced, or are all experiencing, we will feel the same and truly grasp the meaningfulness of this life we’re living and breathing.
Throughout Lennon, Finn, and Brady’s story, they not only show me how amazing life is because you may reunite with the ones you love even after all those years filled with ups and downs, but they also demonstrate what our hearts are comprised of. All I’m saying is that Jennifer impresses me with her previous work, Good on Paper, and now she surprises me with a love triangle story with the trope of childhood-friends-turn-lovers once again. I’m quite certain she will not fail to continue catching me off-guard in the future.
Besides, her next novel, One Good Thing, which will be released on April 7th, 2020, will be someone’s (one of our lovely main characters’) happily-ever-after, and I seriously cannot wait to read it!! Therefore, without further hesitation, please go give this book a try because I promise you’ll be in love with Lennon, Brady, and Finn as much as I do. ❤
***Huge thanks to InkSlinger PR and the author for providing me with an e-ARC in exchange for an honest review.***
July 29, 2020
Beyond the pale is an idiomatic expression which means outside the bounds of normal or acceptable behavior. For me, this would also describe the kind of friendship the three main characters of this story have. Lennon Davies. Finn Jeffries. Brady Sterling. Outrageous and intolerable. Finn and Brady are bestfriends since grade school. In third grade, they met Lennon. She became the third member of the group. From then on, they were inseparable and have always been there for each other through thick and thin, but all that changed when something happened on the night of their high school graduation. These three went on their separate ways until their paths crossed again when Lennon's mom died. When Lennon goes back to Agua Mesa, Finn and Brady are bound to be there too. What would their reunion be like? Are things going to be like they were before?
I remember feeling varied emotions when I was reading this story. It invoked a lot of feelings. I mostly felt for Lennon. She has a crappy home life. She doesn't feel loved by her mom. But I think, she also has the best friends in the whole wide world - Finn and Brady. These two would bring down the moon for her if she asks them to. That's how thick these three are. Their friendship is to be envied.
Of all the books of Millikin that I've read, this is probably the most shocking and most surprising. On the first chapter alone, I already felt the tension, the apprehension and the drama that is going to unfold. I was pulled helplessly into the love triangle and the intertwined and complicated relationship of these three main characters. I felt like their reunion is going to bring back old wound, things that were left unspoken will be hinted at and things that were left alone or were swept under the rug will likely to be unearthed. I felt that electrifying and live tension in the air. It felt like I too was walking on eggshells.
I would say that this story had me asking a lot of questions after it ended. I had this sudden urge to find and talk to someone who've just read the story and ask, "WHAT THE F%%% JUST HAPPENED?" (Yes, all in CAPS.) We have to compare notes. I had to go back to the last few pages or probably the last two chapters to make sure I got it right and that my reaction was justified. And I did get it right. I wasn't hallucinating or even imagining. That was the part that did me in. That was the part which made this book "Oh, so beyond the pale." Until now, months after reading this book, I still feel like at a loss. I still can't believe it. It made me ask myself, "what if I were Lennon, would that experience shape me to be a better person or mess me up more? Would it change the way I see life in general? Would I be thankful for it or would it make me loathe myself? These are just a few of the questions running through my head. At the same time, I was also in awe as to the lengths one would go in the name of friendship and love. And I don't blame them. If I Brady or Finn, I would have probably done anything in my power to save Lennon from any more heartaches and desperation. I think, for once in our life, we all experience that one moment where we are called to do something beyond the pale. Something that is maybe beyond the bounds of reason. I call it something you do or a decision born out of a moment of temporary madness. Or if you're insane most of the time, something you do on a very rare lucid interval. Something you might actually regret but if you're asked if you would do it again, you would still do it without a moment's hesitation. It's one of those decisions which you might not ever dream of making but then you will commit to it again, a thousand times over because you know you're doing it for someone you love more than your life. I have once been on that kind of situation and I would say, if I had to go through that again, I'd still do it - a thousand times over. Just like a hero willing to go through that painful and gruesome death over and over again even in the next lifetime, only because he knows that the sacrifice would be so worth it.
With that said, I give this book 5/5 Lincoln's. The five-dollar bill is so significant in this story because it somehow marked the start of that unbreakable bond between Finn and Lennon. Who Lennon ends up with is also one of the many questions I asked. Who could the lucky guy be - Finn or Brady? I had my own bet and how I came up with that was by imagining "if I were Lennon", which actually happened a lot in the course of reading this story. I think, you won't get the full experience of this wonderful tale if you've never ever felt like you were actually Lennon. It's a requirement. At some point, you not only need to empathize with Lennon but you have be her in order to fully understand the dynamics between the characters and the essence of the story. You have to experience Lennon at some point and only then are you allowed to judge how and why the characters are who they are. If you were just a bystander unable to partake in the intimate experience, then you have not fully grasped the intention of this book. So yes, it would take a while for you to debrief after reading this. You will end up with a lot of questions as I have. And believe me, you will try to analyze the events of the story like it's the most important thing in the universe because you have to make sure that you understand what's really written between the lines and what has been implied. Yes, this is probably one of the best-written stories that had stayed with me days or even months after because I can't seem to get over it. It sticks with you like that stubborn gum in your shoe that you can't seem to wipe off.
Maybe that's how life goes. Perhaps we aren't a collection of the hearts we break, the love we fail into, or the experiences we have. We start out whole, and as we go through life, we carve out pieces of ourselves and leave them behind. Maybe we pick up the pieces of others, and stitch them onto us, until we are a fabric made of everyone else.
- Jennifer Millikin, Beyond the Pale -
Thanks again, Jennifer Millikin for the ARC. I had a great time reading this story and I think this is your best story yet.
I remember feeling varied emotions when I was reading this story. It invoked a lot of feelings. I mostly felt for Lennon. She has a crappy home life. She doesn't feel loved by her mom. But I think, she also has the best friends in the whole wide world - Finn and Brady. These two would bring down the moon for her if she asks them to. That's how thick these three are. Their friendship is to be envied.
Of all the books of Millikin that I've read, this is probably the most shocking and most surprising. On the first chapter alone, I already felt the tension, the apprehension and the drama that is going to unfold. I was pulled helplessly into the love triangle and the intertwined and complicated relationship of these three main characters. I felt like their reunion is going to bring back old wound, things that were left unspoken will be hinted at and things that were left alone or were swept under the rug will likely to be unearthed. I felt that electrifying and live tension in the air. It felt like I too was walking on eggshells.
I would say that this story had me asking a lot of questions after it ended. I had this sudden urge to find and talk to someone who've just read the story and ask, "WHAT THE F%%% JUST HAPPENED?" (Yes, all in CAPS.) We have to compare notes. I had to go back to the last few pages or probably the last two chapters to make sure I got it right and that my reaction was justified. And I did get it right. I wasn't hallucinating or even imagining. That was the part that did me in. That was the part which made this book "Oh, so beyond the pale." Until now, months after reading this book, I still feel like at a loss. I still can't believe it. It made me ask myself, "what if I were Lennon, would that experience shape me to be a better person or mess me up more? Would it change the way I see life in general? Would I be thankful for it or would it make me loathe myself? These are just a few of the questions running through my head. At the same time, I was also in awe as to the lengths one would go in the name of friendship and love. And I don't blame them. If I Brady or Finn, I would have probably done anything in my power to save Lennon from any more heartaches and desperation. I think, for once in our life, we all experience that one moment where we are called to do something beyond the pale. Something that is maybe beyond the bounds of reason. I call it something you do or a decision born out of a moment of temporary madness. Or if you're insane most of the time, something you do on a very rare lucid interval. Something you might actually regret but if you're asked if you would do it again, you would still do it without a moment's hesitation. It's one of those decisions which you might not ever dream of making but then you will commit to it again, a thousand times over because you know you're doing it for someone you love more than your life. I have once been on that kind of situation and I would say, if I had to go through that again, I'd still do it - a thousand times over. Just like a hero willing to go through that painful and gruesome death over and over again even in the next lifetime, only because he knows that the sacrifice would be so worth it.
With that said, I give this book 5/5 Lincoln's. The five-dollar bill is so significant in this story because it somehow marked the start of that unbreakable bond between Finn and Lennon. Who Lennon ends up with is also one of the many questions I asked. Who could the lucky guy be - Finn or Brady? I had my own bet and how I came up with that was by imagining "if I were Lennon", which actually happened a lot in the course of reading this story. I think, you won't get the full experience of this wonderful tale if you've never ever felt like you were actually Lennon. It's a requirement. At some point, you not only need to empathize with Lennon but you have be her in order to fully understand the dynamics between the characters and the essence of the story. You have to experience Lennon at some point and only then are you allowed to judge how and why the characters are who they are. If you were just a bystander unable to partake in the intimate experience, then you have not fully grasped the intention of this book. So yes, it would take a while for you to debrief after reading this. You will end up with a lot of questions as I have. And believe me, you will try to analyze the events of the story like it's the most important thing in the universe because you have to make sure that you understand what's really written between the lines and what has been implied. Yes, this is probably one of the best-written stories that had stayed with me days or even months after because I can't seem to get over it. It sticks with you like that stubborn gum in your shoe that you can't seem to wipe off.
Maybe that's how life goes. Perhaps we aren't a collection of the hearts we break, the love we fail into, or the experiences we have. We start out whole, and as we go through life, we carve out pieces of ourselves and leave them behind. Maybe we pick up the pieces of others, and stitch them onto us, until we are a fabric made of everyone else.
- Jennifer Millikin, Beyond the Pale -
Thanks again, Jennifer Millikin for the ARC. I had a great time reading this story and I think this is your best story yet.
June 23, 2020
A really attention-getting triangle. A story that surprised me and frustrated me at times and finally I just loved.
FULL REVIEW WHEN I'M CAUGHT UP ON LIFE.
FULL REVIEW WHEN I'M CAUGHT UP ON LIFE.
October 12, 2019
Holy hades, my reader friends, this one has devastating heartbreak written all over it, but the story is magnificent! Brady, Finn and Lennon have been best friends since she was the new kid in third grade. After high school graduation they go their separate ways, still keeping in touch, only to return home and be together again when Lennon's mother dies. The guys are just as in love with Lennon as they've always been, and they're doing their best not to force her to choose between them. Lennon loves them both and can't imagine her life without Brady and Finn in it.
Love triangles are always a challenge for me to read because I know at least one broken heart is inevitable. It certainly can take the shine off of a happily ever after knowing that desolate, rejected soul might go through life alone. And yet, somehow Millikin had me devouring these pages, falling for these characters and eager for more.
Told with poignant scenes from the past, Lennon's story is touching, endearing and authentically human. Brady and Finn couldn’t be more different, both in personality and upbringing, but their friendship and love for Lennon unites them. As Lennon revisits pieces of her troubled past and learns the secrets her mother kept from her, Brady and Finn are both beside her, supporting and helping her every step of the way.
I suspect we haven’t seen the last of these characters, which makes me very happy because I adore them all. Yes, Lennon and one of these guys get their HEA, but the ending left me with my mouth agape, thinking, “Holy carp, what just happened?!” Millikin has perfected the literary mic drop with one small sentence and now I’m dying for more! If you like your romance leaning towards the wholesome but with unexpected turns, shocking twists, a bit of angst and tons of emotion, you'll absolutely love this touching, heartfelt, phenomenal book!
Love triangles are always a challenge for me to read because I know at least one broken heart is inevitable. It certainly can take the shine off of a happily ever after knowing that desolate, rejected soul might go through life alone. And yet, somehow Millikin had me devouring these pages, falling for these characters and eager for more.
Told with poignant scenes from the past, Lennon's story is touching, endearing and authentically human. Brady and Finn couldn’t be more different, both in personality and upbringing, but their friendship and love for Lennon unites them. As Lennon revisits pieces of her troubled past and learns the secrets her mother kept from her, Brady and Finn are both beside her, supporting and helping her every step of the way.
I suspect we haven’t seen the last of these characters, which makes me very happy because I adore them all. Yes, Lennon and one of these guys get their HEA, but the ending left me with my mouth agape, thinking, “Holy carp, what just happened?!” Millikin has perfected the literary mic drop with one small sentence and now I’m dying for more! If you like your romance leaning towards the wholesome but with unexpected turns, shocking twists, a bit of angst and tons of emotion, you'll absolutely love this touching, heartfelt, phenomenal book!
October 15, 2019
‘Beyond The Pale’ by Jennifer Millikin was an amazing book! This story had me hooked from the first few pages until the very last sentence!!! I literally could not put it down.
This book tells the story of Lennon Davies, and her two best friends Finn & Brady, both of whom are completely in love with her. One of the main focuses of the story was Lennon’s internal struggle, knowing that she’d have to make a heart breaking choice one day....Finn or Brady. This is a love triangle that doesn’t disappoint.
The story is told from the ‘Now’ perspective, 8 years after high school graduation when the three go their separate ways, and the ‘Then’ perspective, which spans from when they first meet at age 8, up through high school graduation. I felt the book flowed nicely.
This is also so much more than a simple love triangle story. The characters were well developed and the plot seemed well thought out. There were twists and turns I never saw coming, even up to the last sentence, that left me with my mouth hanging wide open in surprise.
‘Beyond The Pale’ is a complete 5 star read!! Do not miss your chance to read this book!
Reviewed by: Lynne J.
This book tells the story of Lennon Davies, and her two best friends Finn & Brady, both of whom are completely in love with her. One of the main focuses of the story was Lennon’s internal struggle, knowing that she’d have to make a heart breaking choice one day....Finn or Brady. This is a love triangle that doesn’t disappoint.
The story is told from the ‘Now’ perspective, 8 years after high school graduation when the three go their separate ways, and the ‘Then’ perspective, which spans from when they first meet at age 8, up through high school graduation. I felt the book flowed nicely.
This is also so much more than a simple love triangle story. The characters were well developed and the plot seemed well thought out. There were twists and turns I never saw coming, even up to the last sentence, that left me with my mouth hanging wide open in surprise.
‘Beyond The Pale’ is a complete 5 star read!! Do not miss your chance to read this book!
Reviewed by: Lynne J.
October 20, 2019
Beautifully written and unique, this was my first read from Jennifer, and it sure won't be my last. LOVED IT.
*Copy kindly given in exchange for an honest review, thank you so much*
*Copy kindly given in exchange for an honest review, thank you so much*
January 20, 2024
This one wasn’t for me. For a bunch of reasons. And I probably should have known it from the beginning. But I usually enjoy Jennifer Millikin’s books so I hung with it far past when I should have.
My issues? First, I’m not usually a fan of past and present storylines, especially if they take us back to teenage years. Second, I just can’t believe these three people would let the love triangle go on for so long, even if they spent the past eight years apart. And to me, it’s just not romantic to be in love with someone and not do something about it.
But I do have to give the author props for the mic drop ending line of the book. No preamble, just BAM. Well done, Ms. Millikin, well done!
My issues? First, I’m not usually a fan of past and present storylines, especially if they take us back to teenage years. Second, I just can’t believe these three people would let the love triangle go on for so long, even if they spent the past eight years apart. And to me, it’s just not romantic to be in love with someone and not do something about it.
But I do have to give the author props for the mic drop ending line of the book. No preamble, just BAM. Well done, Ms. Millikin, well done!
July 14, 2024
Beyond The Pale - Jennifer Millikin
*Book Rec*
𝑰’𝒍𝒍 𝒈𝒐 𝒉𝒐𝒎𝒆 𝒕𝒐 𝑨𝒈𝒖𝒂 𝑴𝒆𝒔𝒂. 𝑰’𝒍𝒍 𝒇𝒂𝒄𝒆 𝒘𝒉𝒂𝒕𝒆𝒗𝒆𝒓 𝒊𝒕 𝒊𝒔 𝒘𝒂𝒊𝒕𝒊𝒏𝒈 𝒇𝒐𝒓 𝒎𝒆 𝒕𝒉𝒆𝒓𝒆, 𝒊𝒏𝒄𝒍𝒖𝒅𝒊𝒏𝒈 𝒕𝒉𝒆 𝒍𝒐𝒗𝒆 𝒕𝒓𝒊𝒂𝒏𝒈𝒍𝒆 𝒘𝒆 𝒍𝒆𝒇𝒕 𝒃𝒆𝒉𝒊𝒏𝒅.
I went right into another Jennifer book after The Day He Went Away and I am SO happy I did. This love triangle stressed me out right til the end 😆 This was a quick read that left me on the edge of my seat. Again, while spice wasn't in it, it didn't make it any less amazing. I think when the story is SO good that you don't realize spice isn't there that's telling of how good the author is.
𝑰𝒕’𝒔 𝒇𝒖𝒏𝒏𝒚 𝒉𝒐𝒘 𝒕𝒘𝒐 𝒗𝒆𝒓𝒚 𝒅𝒊𝒇𝒇𝒆𝒓𝒆𝒏𝒕 𝒎𝒆𝒏 𝒄𝒂𝒏 𝒘𝒆𝒂𝒓 𝒕𝒉𝒆 𝒔𝒂𝒎𝒆 𝒍𝒐𝒐𝒌. 𝑳𝒐𝒏𝒈𝒊𝒏𝒈, 𝒄𝒐𝒏𝒇𝒖𝒔𝒊𝒐𝒏, 𝒅𝒆𝒔𝒊𝒓𝒆, 𝒘𝒊𝒕𝒉 𝒂 𝒉𝒊𝒏𝒕 𝒐𝒇 𝒔𝒂𝒅𝒏𝒆𝒔𝒔 𝒄𝒍𝒊𝒏𝒈𝒊𝒏𝒈 𝒕𝒐 𝒕𝒉𝒆 𝒆𝒅𝒈𝒆𝒔.
Finn, Brady and Lennon were all friends as kids and one day the boys realized they were vying for Lennon's attention in more ways then friends. Lennon truly loved both of these boys and they decided to go their separate ways while in college. Lennon's mothers death leads them all back to home where Lennon needs to decide whole she loves and who she's IN love with.
𝑺𝒐𝒖𝒍 𝒎𝒂𝒕𝒆𝒔 𝒅𝒐𝒏’𝒕 𝒉𝒂𝒗𝒆 𝒕𝒐 𝒃𝒆 𝒃𝒆𝒔𝒕-𝒇𝒊𝒕𝒕𝒊𝒏𝒈. 𝑴𝒂𝒚𝒃𝒆 𝒔𝒐𝒖𝒍𝒔 𝒄𝒉𝒐𝒐𝒔𝒆 𝒆𝒂𝒄𝒉 𝒐𝒕𝒉𝒆𝒓 𝒅𝒆𝒔𝒑𝒊𝒕𝒆 𝒕𝒉𝒆 𝒑𝒂𝒓𝒕𝒔 𝒐𝒇 𝒕𝒉𝒆𝒎 𝒕𝒉𝒂𝒕 𝒅𝒐𝒏’𝒕 𝒇𝒊𝒕 𝒕𝒐𝒈𝒆𝒕𝒉𝒆𝒓.
🖤Love Triangle
💜Secrets
🖤Childhood Friends
*Book Rec*
𝑰’𝒍𝒍 𝒈𝒐 𝒉𝒐𝒎𝒆 𝒕𝒐 𝑨𝒈𝒖𝒂 𝑴𝒆𝒔𝒂. 𝑰’𝒍𝒍 𝒇𝒂𝒄𝒆 𝒘𝒉𝒂𝒕𝒆𝒗𝒆𝒓 𝒊𝒕 𝒊𝒔 𝒘𝒂𝒊𝒕𝒊𝒏𝒈 𝒇𝒐𝒓 𝒎𝒆 𝒕𝒉𝒆𝒓𝒆, 𝒊𝒏𝒄𝒍𝒖𝒅𝒊𝒏𝒈 𝒕𝒉𝒆 𝒍𝒐𝒗𝒆 𝒕𝒓𝒊𝒂𝒏𝒈𝒍𝒆 𝒘𝒆 𝒍𝒆𝒇𝒕 𝒃𝒆𝒉𝒊𝒏𝒅.
I went right into another Jennifer book after The Day He Went Away and I am SO happy I did. This love triangle stressed me out right til the end 😆 This was a quick read that left me on the edge of my seat. Again, while spice wasn't in it, it didn't make it any less amazing. I think when the story is SO good that you don't realize spice isn't there that's telling of how good the author is.
𝑰𝒕’𝒔 𝒇𝒖𝒏𝒏𝒚 𝒉𝒐𝒘 𝒕𝒘𝒐 𝒗𝒆𝒓𝒚 𝒅𝒊𝒇𝒇𝒆𝒓𝒆𝒏𝒕 𝒎𝒆𝒏 𝒄𝒂𝒏 𝒘𝒆𝒂𝒓 𝒕𝒉𝒆 𝒔𝒂𝒎𝒆 𝒍𝒐𝒐𝒌. 𝑳𝒐𝒏𝒈𝒊𝒏𝒈, 𝒄𝒐𝒏𝒇𝒖𝒔𝒊𝒐𝒏, 𝒅𝒆𝒔𝒊𝒓𝒆, 𝒘𝒊𝒕𝒉 𝒂 𝒉𝒊𝒏𝒕 𝒐𝒇 𝒔𝒂𝒅𝒏𝒆𝒔𝒔 𝒄𝒍𝒊𝒏𝒈𝒊𝒏𝒈 𝒕𝒐 𝒕𝒉𝒆 𝒆𝒅𝒈𝒆𝒔.
Finn, Brady and Lennon were all friends as kids and one day the boys realized they were vying for Lennon's attention in more ways then friends. Lennon truly loved both of these boys and they decided to go their separate ways while in college. Lennon's mothers death leads them all back to home where Lennon needs to decide whole she loves and who she's IN love with.
𝑺𝒐𝒖𝒍 𝒎𝒂𝒕𝒆𝒔 𝒅𝒐𝒏’𝒕 𝒉𝒂𝒗𝒆 𝒕𝒐 𝒃𝒆 𝒃𝒆𝒔𝒕-𝒇𝒊𝒕𝒕𝒊𝒏𝒈. 𝑴𝒂𝒚𝒃𝒆 𝒔𝒐𝒖𝒍𝒔 𝒄𝒉𝒐𝒐𝒔𝒆 𝒆𝒂𝒄𝒉 𝒐𝒕𝒉𝒆𝒓 𝒅𝒆𝒔𝒑𝒊𝒕𝒆 𝒕𝒉𝒆 𝒑𝒂𝒓𝒕𝒔 𝒐𝒇 𝒕𝒉𝒆𝒎 𝒕𝒉𝒂𝒕 𝒅𝒐𝒏’𝒕 𝒇𝒊𝒕 𝒕𝒐𝒈𝒆𝒕𝒉𝒆𝒓.
🖤Love Triangle
💜Secrets
🖤Childhood Friends
September 29, 2024
An intense love triangle between 3 best friends and the h chooses in the end. The last sentence in this book was so satisfying. I have had this author in my "To BE Read" for awhile and after reading What We Keep, I am devouring her book list.
Want to read
January 4, 2021🎁 FREE on Amazon today (1/4/2021)! 🎁
November 10, 2020
When life throws you a curveball, you have to make decisions you've been putting off for years. Facing your past and deciding the future. Kind of a slow read, with a couple twists. Interested to see what happens in book 2, especially after the heartstrings were tugged so much in book 1.
November 2, 2023
I don't usually go for love triangle books... but I loved this one! I really enjoy Jennifer's writing, having devoured the Hayden family series before this one and it did not disappoint.
February 9, 2020
4 stars. I wish there was some more time with their actual relationships - such potential.
October 21, 2019
Jennifer Millikin, ‘Beyond the Pale’.
As an ARC reader I received this book for free. And promised an honest review. Here it is. English isn’t my first language. Sorry for errors.
Rating: 4,5 (out of 5 stars).
In general: An original love triangle.
The main characters in this book are: Lennon, Brady and Finn.
They know each other since elementary school. Lennon was a new girl in Agua Mesa; Brady and Finn helped her to settle in her new small hometown. They became an unit of three persons during their youth, despite their very different social background. Lennon was raised by a religious mom and had a pastor as a stepfather; so appearances were important; Brady’s dad was a judge, so for him too no social misbehaving, Finn lived in a mobile home camp and was hardly accepted by Lennon and Brady’s parents.
During their teens both boys develop a secret crush on the beautiful Lennon. She suspects something sometimes but she loves both and cannot make a choice and avoids to do so for Brady and Finn are good friends. During high school they realise that they will leave the suffocating atmosphere of their small home town. But they promise solemnly to return together when one of them is forced to return to Agua Mesa. After their departure from their homes they keep in contact by digital communication.
After about seven years Lennon’s mom dies. So she has to return. She calls Brady and Finn and they promise immediately to help her with the consequences of her mom’s death.
The author, Jennifer Millikin, describes - in a very original plot - how the relationship between the three (now adults) develops. Wonderful characters, striking sketches of a small town community, credible dialogues and a surprising ending resulted in a book that - for me - was an easy to read page turner I hardly couldn’t put away.
Only Lennon’s long postponing of looking into the essentials of her mom’s legacy was - for me - a bit difficult to understand. But it ensured an exciting ending.
R. Huiszoon.
As an ARC reader I received this book for free. And promised an honest review. Here it is. English isn’t my first language. Sorry for errors.
Rating: 4,5 (out of 5 stars).
In general: An original love triangle.
The main characters in this book are: Lennon, Brady and Finn.
They know each other since elementary school. Lennon was a new girl in Agua Mesa; Brady and Finn helped her to settle in her new small hometown. They became an unit of three persons during their youth, despite their very different social background. Lennon was raised by a religious mom and had a pastor as a stepfather; so appearances were important; Brady’s dad was a judge, so for him too no social misbehaving, Finn lived in a mobile home camp and was hardly accepted by Lennon and Brady’s parents.
During their teens both boys develop a secret crush on the beautiful Lennon. She suspects something sometimes but she loves both and cannot make a choice and avoids to do so for Brady and Finn are good friends. During high school they realise that they will leave the suffocating atmosphere of their small home town. But they promise solemnly to return together when one of them is forced to return to Agua Mesa. After their departure from their homes they keep in contact by digital communication.
After about seven years Lennon’s mom dies. So she has to return. She calls Brady and Finn and they promise immediately to help her with the consequences of her mom’s death.
The author, Jennifer Millikin, describes - in a very original plot - how the relationship between the three (now adults) develops. Wonderful characters, striking sketches of a small town community, credible dialogues and a surprising ending resulted in a book that - for me - was an easy to read page turner I hardly couldn’t put away.
Only Lennon’s long postponing of looking into the essentials of her mom’s legacy was - for me - a bit difficult to understand. But it ensured an exciting ending.
R. Huiszoon.
October 28, 2025
Beyond The Pale by Jennifer Millikin is an interesting take on a love triangle. I won’t say too much and give away the ending… the “winner” I should say in this trio of best friends.
Brady and Finn. The boys who saved me. The men who ruined me for any chance at falling in love with someone who isn’t them.
Since grade school it’s always been Brady, Finn, and Lennon. As they get older the boys fall in love with Lennon and hard. She loves them too but she is IN love with only one. She just doesn’t know who yet.
It’s been years since she has seen the guys. They have all moved across the country since graduating high school but made a pact years ago if one returns to their hometown they all go. Lennon gets the call her mom has died and so the three are reunited.
The story takes place over a couple of weeks while Lennon sorts out her mother’s estate. Theresa are glimpses of the past but the story mostly focuses on the present and the relationship between the three. As I read. I sort of saw who Lennon really loved and I was right! Both men are amazing but I was partial to Brady.
Lennon was an interesting character. She has a dark cloud over her due to her mother and how she was raised. She had a lot to overcome and the book did focus a lot on her overcoming her past and discovering things about her mom she didn’t know.
I liked that the story focused a lot on that and wasn’t this messy love triangle. Which don’t get me wrong. It was messy. And at times I was like “jeez, poor Lennon two amazing men love you”… it was a bit much at times… she totally let both men on and even kissing both the same day… ugh.
I did enjoy the book and characters and that last sentence of how the book ended. Wowzers!!! Loved it!! I think Lennon picked the right guy for her.
I give Beyond The Pale by Jennifer Millikin 4 stars.
“I lied,” he murmurs. “I was so damn scared you wouldn’t choose me. And a life without you, Lennon? I couldn’t see it. In my mind are pictures of what my life is supposed to look like, and you’re in every one of them.”
Brady and Finn. The boys who saved me. The men who ruined me for any chance at falling in love with someone who isn’t them.
Since grade school it’s always been Brady, Finn, and Lennon. As they get older the boys fall in love with Lennon and hard. She loves them too but she is IN love with only one. She just doesn’t know who yet.
It’s been years since she has seen the guys. They have all moved across the country since graduating high school but made a pact years ago if one returns to their hometown they all go. Lennon gets the call her mom has died and so the three are reunited.
The story takes place over a couple of weeks while Lennon sorts out her mother’s estate. Theresa are glimpses of the past but the story mostly focuses on the present and the relationship between the three. As I read. I sort of saw who Lennon really loved and I was right! Both men are amazing but I was partial to Brady.
Lennon was an interesting character. She has a dark cloud over her due to her mother and how she was raised. She had a lot to overcome and the book did focus a lot on her overcoming her past and discovering things about her mom she didn’t know.
I liked that the story focused a lot on that and wasn’t this messy love triangle. Which don’t get me wrong. It was messy. And at times I was like “jeez, poor Lennon two amazing men love you”… it was a bit much at times… she totally let both men on and even kissing both the same day… ugh.
I did enjoy the book and characters and that last sentence of how the book ended. Wowzers!!! Loved it!! I think Lennon picked the right guy for her.
I give Beyond The Pale by Jennifer Millikin 4 stars.
“I lied,” he murmurs. “I was so damn scared you wouldn’t choose me. And a life without you, Lennon? I couldn’t see it. In my mind are pictures of what my life is supposed to look like, and you’re in every one of them.”
October 21, 2019
I couldn't put this book down, guys! If you like love triangles and angst, this is the one for you!
Lennon first met Brady and Finn in the 3rd grade when the was the "new girl" in Agua Mesa, Arizona. They have been the best of friends ever since. So much so, that they made a pact 8 years ago that if one of them went back to Agua Mesa, the other two would go along in solidarity and support. When Lennon's mother unexpectedly dies of a heart attack, she is forced to go back home to handle the arrangements. Lennon had a terrible home life growing up, so she doesn't really feel any sort of loss. However, she is once again faced with the painful events of the past that she has tried and failed to outrun ever since. And the hardest part of it all is that her two best friends that she loves, Brady and Finn, are now men who are both in love with her. Brady, the steady, level-headed young lawyer who grew up with everything handed to him, but would still give anyone the shirt off of his back. Finn, an app developer and hard worker, has been stealing kisses with Lennon since they were teenagers, and he isn't afraid to profess his love to her. Raised by his uncle in a trailer on the wrong side of town, he was not handed anything like Brady. He is also fiercely protective of Lennon. Being in constant close proximity to both men is cause for some very angst-filled romance, my friends. The romance is actually quite tame throughout the book, but Millikin definitely knows how to amp up the passion, through tender scenes with stolen kisses in this impossibly difficult love triangle. Lennon knows that she loves both Brady and Finn, and she always will. But, which one is she in love with?
You'll have to read it and find out. I don't want to give away any more of the plot, and you'll thank me for that later. I loved this story and can hardly wait for the next book in the series (One Good Thing) to come out in Spring 2020. The cliffhanger on this one, though. Jeesh, everything was going along just fine and then the last sentence...Boom!
Thank you to InkSlinger PR for the review copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
Lennon first met Brady and Finn in the 3rd grade when the was the "new girl" in Agua Mesa, Arizona. They have been the best of friends ever since. So much so, that they made a pact 8 years ago that if one of them went back to Agua Mesa, the other two would go along in solidarity and support. When Lennon's mother unexpectedly dies of a heart attack, she is forced to go back home to handle the arrangements. Lennon had a terrible home life growing up, so she doesn't really feel any sort of loss. However, she is once again faced with the painful events of the past that she has tried and failed to outrun ever since. And the hardest part of it all is that her two best friends that she loves, Brady and Finn, are now men who are both in love with her. Brady, the steady, level-headed young lawyer who grew up with everything handed to him, but would still give anyone the shirt off of his back. Finn, an app developer and hard worker, has been stealing kisses with Lennon since they were teenagers, and he isn't afraid to profess his love to her. Raised by his uncle in a trailer on the wrong side of town, he was not handed anything like Brady. He is also fiercely protective of Lennon. Being in constant close proximity to both men is cause for some very angst-filled romance, my friends. The romance is actually quite tame throughout the book, but Millikin definitely knows how to amp up the passion, through tender scenes with stolen kisses in this impossibly difficult love triangle. Lennon knows that she loves both Brady and Finn, and she always will. But, which one is she in love with?
You'll have to read it and find out. I don't want to give away any more of the plot, and you'll thank me for that later. I loved this story and can hardly wait for the next book in the series (One Good Thing) to come out in Spring 2020. The cliffhanger on this one, though. Jeesh, everything was going along just fine and then the last sentence...Boom!
Thank you to InkSlinger PR for the review copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
October 16, 2019
I enjoy a lot of different types of romance novels. I will admit that it took me a little longer to warm up to the contemporary romance field, especially as it is written today in this wide-open, anyone-can-publish book marketplace created by Amazon and perpetuated with other online booksellers. I don’t mind angsty romance. I usually like a second chance romances and don't mind love triangles if they are well written. Unfortunately, in the case of this book, I found myself completely turned off by the profanity. That is one of my problems with contemporary romance and other modern novels; I just do not believe that heavy profanity is needed in any book, and it is a major turnoff for in any novel. I found myself very distracted by it. I wish the author had stated in the book description that this level of profanity was used (over 50 F-bombs), and I would have skipped the book completely.
The story itself had some twists and turns, some expected and some not, but the author did not reveal who the woman would choose until the very literal end of the book. Honestly, I just dislike that about a book, too. Something needs to follow the answer to the primary question besides just a tease about the next book in the series. The story needs time to breathe and wind down for it to feel like the promise of the book has been fulfilled.
I think this book had potential because the characters and their story were interesting. I did enjoy the weaving back and forth between the present time and when they were younger. I just couldn't get beyond their profanity and the unsatisfying ending.
I did receive a free copy of this book, but that did not affect my review.
The story itself had some twists and turns, some expected and some not, but the author did not reveal who the woman would choose until the very literal end of the book. Honestly, I just dislike that about a book, too. Something needs to follow the answer to the primary question besides just a tease about the next book in the series. The story needs time to breathe and wind down for it to feel like the promise of the book has been fulfilled.
I think this book had potential because the characters and their story were interesting. I did enjoy the weaving back and forth between the present time and when they were younger. I just couldn't get beyond their profanity and the unsatisfying ending.
I did receive a free copy of this book, but that did not affect my review.
October 17, 2019
From the moment Brady and Finn came into her life Lennon knew she had just met two special people, two friends that would be in her life forever. Each brought something different to her life, Finn always with calming words and Brady with his supportive hugs they always kept her afloat. They were the bright spots in her often dim world, and she loved them both... which she knew would eventually create a problem. But they were young, and not ready for all the feelings and love brewing between them... so they went their separate ways, and planned to remain friends.
After eight years of being away from one another they are all about to reunite for the first time, this time much older, wiser, and ready to finally settle the uncertainty between them. Lennon has no idea who to choose, she loves them both for different reasons, and she can't bare to lose either of them. It's an impossible decision!
Beyond the Pale is a heart-string tugging tale that will reek havoc on your emotions and leave you dying in anticipation... Lennon darn near killed me with her indecision! I am a sucker for love triangles stories and this one did not disappoint, it had the angst and emotional turmoil I crave, and characters that completely stole my heart. I look forward to coming back to them and seeing how the rest of their story plays out, I have high hopes their is another happily ever after to be discovered. I really enjoyed this one, the words squeezed my heart in all the right places, and it's characters kept me thoroughly entertained from beginning to end!! Highly recommend!
I requested an advanced copy of this title from the publisher, and I am voluntarily leaving my honest opinion.
After eight years of being away from one another they are all about to reunite for the first time, this time much older, wiser, and ready to finally settle the uncertainty between them. Lennon has no idea who to choose, she loves them both for different reasons, and she can't bare to lose either of them. It's an impossible decision!
Beyond the Pale is a heart-string tugging tale that will reek havoc on your emotions and leave you dying in anticipation... Lennon darn near killed me with her indecision! I am a sucker for love triangles stories and this one did not disappoint, it had the angst and emotional turmoil I crave, and characters that completely stole my heart. I look forward to coming back to them and seeing how the rest of their story plays out, I have high hopes their is another happily ever after to be discovered. I really enjoyed this one, the words squeezed my heart in all the right places, and it's characters kept me thoroughly entertained from beginning to end!! Highly recommend!
I requested an advanced copy of this title from the publisher, and I am voluntarily leaving my honest opinion.
October 29, 2019
Pros: This book pulled me in and kept my attention: great storyline, good characters (they had mistakes, motives, and mystery), and the love triangle wasn’t too obnoxious. I usually steer clear of love triangles, but this one was a lot of friendship which made it better to me. I really liked Finn and Brady any sympathized with them. I liked Lennon as a person but didn’t connect with Lennon as much, mainly because she left these two great guys hanging for SO LONG. That is so inconsiderate.
Cons: a lot of angst, so if you don’t like that, this book isn’t for you. The storyline wasn’t completely believable, but that doesn’t really bother me most of the time. It felt a bit contrary because this book was very serious a lot, and then the storyline was like - how likely is that to happen?? But I actually enjoy surprises and twists in a novel that aren’t likely, as long as the characters stay in-character.
I would have loved to see an Epilogue that was a couple years later, focusing more on Lennon and the one she chose. Instead, it focused on the boy she didn’t choose and was obviously a teaser for the next book. I don’t really enjoy it when authors do this, I want to finish their story, then add a teaser and call it that.
I give this 4/5 stars, I really really liked it, but the cons I mentioned still stand. I would definitely read another book by this author!
I received a free copy of this book in exchange for my honest review.
Cons: a lot of angst, so if you don’t like that, this book isn’t for you. The storyline wasn’t completely believable, but that doesn’t really bother me most of the time. It felt a bit contrary because this book was very serious a lot, and then the storyline was like - how likely is that to happen?? But I actually enjoy surprises and twists in a novel that aren’t likely, as long as the characters stay in-character.
I would have loved to see an Epilogue that was a couple years later, focusing more on Lennon and the one she chose. Instead, it focused on the boy she didn’t choose and was obviously a teaser for the next book. I don’t really enjoy it when authors do this, I want to finish their story, then add a teaser and call it that.
I give this 4/5 stars, I really really liked it, but the cons I mentioned still stand. I would definitely read another book by this author!
I received a free copy of this book in exchange for my honest review.
September 13, 2024
𝑩𝒆𝒚𝒐𝒏𝒅 𝒕𝒉𝒆 𝑷𝒂𝒍𝒆 𝒃𝒚 𝑱𝒆𝙣𝙣𝙞𝙛𝙚𝙧 𝑴𝙞𝙡𝙡𝙞𝙠𝙞𝙣
♾️⭐️
🌶️ 1/6
📖𝑅𝑒𝑎𝑑
Why in the world is this book not more popular?‽‽ I actually wish this book was longer, and I don’t say that often. I loved every single moment of it. I immediately fell for all three of them, Lennon, Brady, and Finn. Their friendship is such a beautiful thing. I really enjoyed that it was told in dual timelines all the way from the first day of their friendship and now. Seeing their relationship grow and strengthen over the years only added depth and made me love them more.
Even though Finn and Brady knew they were both in love with Lennon, they don’t let it come between them. I loved how protective both men were of Lennon. Even at seven years old, their instincts were to protect her. I loved them both for different reasons. Brady is calm, and level headed, and the way that he befriended her made me tear up. Finn is fun, playful, charming, the bad boy of the two, but sweet and respectful to Lennon. I can understand why she loves them both, buuuuttt, I cannot be more happy with how it ends.
This is going to be a book I think about for the rest of my life. I am going to tell anyone who’ll listen about it, because this story deserves waaaaay more love and hype! It’s not typical love triangle, there no nastiness between characters. Please just read it 🙏🏻
𝐓𝐑𝐎𝐏𝐄𝐒:
❣️Love triangle
❣️Childhood best friends
❣️Multiple POVs
❣️Dual timelines
❣️Who will she choose
❣️Touch her & 💀
❣️Angst
❣️Witty banter
❣️HEA
♾️⭐️
🌶️ 1/6
📖𝑅𝑒𝑎𝑑
Why in the world is this book not more popular?‽‽ I actually wish this book was longer, and I don’t say that often. I loved every single moment of it. I immediately fell for all three of them, Lennon, Brady, and Finn. Their friendship is such a beautiful thing. I really enjoyed that it was told in dual timelines all the way from the first day of their friendship and now. Seeing their relationship grow and strengthen over the years only added depth and made me love them more.
Even though Finn and Brady knew they were both in love with Lennon, they don’t let it come between them. I loved how protective both men were of Lennon. Even at seven years old, their instincts were to protect her. I loved them both for different reasons. Brady is calm, and level headed, and the way that he befriended her made me tear up. Finn is fun, playful, charming, the bad boy of the two, but sweet and respectful to Lennon. I can understand why she loves them both, buuuuttt, I cannot be more happy with how it ends.
This is going to be a book I think about for the rest of my life. I am going to tell anyone who’ll listen about it, because this story deserves waaaaay more love and hype! It’s not typical love triangle, there no nastiness between characters. Please just read it 🙏🏻
𝐓𝐑𝐎𝐏𝐄𝐒:
❣️Love triangle
❣️Childhood best friends
❣️Multiple POVs
❣️Dual timelines
❣️Who will she choose
❣️Touch her & 💀
❣️Angst
❣️Witty banter
❣️HEA
October 20, 2019
Who to choose, who to choose!?! An absolute must read!
Beyond The Pale by Jennifer Millikin is an exceptionally well written book full of wonderful characters, a seamless blend of past and present as well as intrigue.
This author has created an amazing read. I love how she tells Lennon, Finn and Brady’s stories from their past as well as their present in a way that is effortless and very natural to the story. It just flows so nicely.
The storyline of their love triangle is also extremely intriguing and of course is a fantastic hook to get the readers fully invested. To be honest, Finn and Brady were so equal, I would have been happy with either outcome! Through Lennon’s eyes, the guys are eternally equal in all ways despite their unequal backgrounds.
All of the characters in this book, as with all of this author’s work that I have already read, are realistic, emotional and captivating. As is the plot, all emotion, relationships and ultimately a choice. Who will it be? You will just have to read it to find out for yourself and you won’t be disappointed. In addition to a very well written book, there’s a surprise revelational at the end! You don’t want to miss it!
Overall a very well written book that will take you through an emotional wringer, but provides a HEA.
I read an ARC of this book from Hidden Gems and voluntarily share my review.
Beyond The Pale by Jennifer Millikin is an exceptionally well written book full of wonderful characters, a seamless blend of past and present as well as intrigue.
This author has created an amazing read. I love how she tells Lennon, Finn and Brady’s stories from their past as well as their present in a way that is effortless and very natural to the story. It just flows so nicely.
The storyline of their love triangle is also extremely intriguing and of course is a fantastic hook to get the readers fully invested. To be honest, Finn and Brady were so equal, I would have been happy with either outcome! Through Lennon’s eyes, the guys are eternally equal in all ways despite their unequal backgrounds.
All of the characters in this book, as with all of this author’s work that I have already read, are realistic, emotional and captivating. As is the plot, all emotion, relationships and ultimately a choice. Who will it be? You will just have to read it to find out for yourself and you won’t be disappointed. In addition to a very well written book, there’s a surprise revelational at the end! You don’t want to miss it!
Overall a very well written book that will take you through an emotional wringer, but provides a HEA.
I read an ARC of this book from Hidden Gems and voluntarily share my review.
October 8, 2019
This has angst in spades but the good kind, not the repetitive whingy kind.
There's quite a lot of background to take in, in this tale, which is revealed bit by bit.
We have 3 childhood friends Lennon, Brady & Finn. All from different backgrounds however they form a strong bond which has lasted the years since they fled their hometown & making totally different lives.
They did also make a pledge that when one of them returns home they all will follow.
What the main issue is they both love her & she loves them both. So she needs to make a decision which is one of the main focuses in this story.
Of course this will come at a cost to their friendship. You float from each guy all the way through. Perhaps some will guess but that's the beauty of it as it's a long wait for the reveal. However while it's said that something will trigger her decision in a parting word, I found it happened a bit too quick after that for me. But I suppose it put us out of our misery.
I will say the loser (sigh - such a horrible word) will feature in the next book, which I'm eagerly awaiting.
Be prepared from for quite a few twists & a few I wasn't expecting!
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review. 4.5*
There's quite a lot of background to take in, in this tale, which is revealed bit by bit.
We have 3 childhood friends Lennon, Brady & Finn. All from different backgrounds however they form a strong bond which has lasted the years since they fled their hometown & making totally different lives.
They did also make a pledge that when one of them returns home they all will follow.
What the main issue is they both love her & she loves them both. So she needs to make a decision which is one of the main focuses in this story.
Of course this will come at a cost to their friendship. You float from each guy all the way through. Perhaps some will guess but that's the beauty of it as it's a long wait for the reveal. However while it's said that something will trigger her decision in a parting word, I found it happened a bit too quick after that for me. But I suppose it put us out of our misery.
I will say the loser (sigh - such a horrible word) will feature in the next book, which I'm eagerly awaiting.
Be prepared from for quite a few twists & a few I wasn't expecting!
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review. 4.5*
October 15, 2019
Reviewed for ‘A Book Need, a Bookseller, and a Bibliophile’:
‘Beyond The Pale’ by Jennifer Millikin was an amazing book! This story had me hooked from the first few pages until the very last sentence!!! I literally could not put it down.
This book tells the story of Lennon Davies, and her two best friends Finn & Brady, both of whom are completely in love with her. One of the main focuses of the story was Lennon’s internal struggle, knowing that she’d have to make a heart breaking choice one day....Finn or Brady. This is a love triangle that doesn’t disappoint.
The story is told from the ‘Now’ perspective, 8 years after high school graduation when the three go their separate ways, and the ‘Then’ perspective, which spans from when they first meet at age 8, up through high school graduation. I felt the book flowed nicely.
This is also so much more than a simple love triangle story. The characters were well developed and the plot seemed well thought out. There were twists and turns I never saw coming, even up to the last sentence, that left me with my mouth hanging wide open in surprise.
‘Beyond The Pale’ is a complete 5 star read!! Do not miss your chance to read this book!
‘Beyond The Pale’ by Jennifer Millikin was an amazing book! This story had me hooked from the first few pages until the very last sentence!!! I literally could not put it down.
This book tells the story of Lennon Davies, and her two best friends Finn & Brady, both of whom are completely in love with her. One of the main focuses of the story was Lennon’s internal struggle, knowing that she’d have to make a heart breaking choice one day....Finn or Brady. This is a love triangle that doesn’t disappoint.
The story is told from the ‘Now’ perspective, 8 years after high school graduation when the three go their separate ways, and the ‘Then’ perspective, which spans from when they first meet at age 8, up through high school graduation. I felt the book flowed nicely.
This is also so much more than a simple love triangle story. The characters were well developed and the plot seemed well thought out. There were twists and turns I never saw coming, even up to the last sentence, that left me with my mouth hanging wide open in surprise.
‘Beyond The Pale’ is a complete 5 star read!! Do not miss your chance to read this book!
October 21, 2019
Full Review posted at Book Lovin' Mamas
This book involves not only the love triangle but also something that happened to poor Lennon to almost break her in the past. Her best friends were the only ones that supported her, and she never wanted to ruin that friendship. Unfortunately, love triangles are always complicated, and Jennifer portrays it very well in this book. Eventually, Lennon chooses in the book, and I’m glad she chose the one she loved the most. She still loved the other but had different feelings for him. I had a feeling she would want the one person she did in the book, but it did break my heart that the other one didn’t get chosen. I’m glad that the person is going to get his book.
If you are looking for a love triangle book that involves best friends that is also a small-town romance, then this book is for you.
Story Rating: 4 stars
Steaminess Rating: 2 stars
Standalone or part of series: Standalone
Do I recommend this book? Yes.
Will I read other books from the author? Yes.
Tropes/Elements: Love Triangle; Friends-to-Lovers; Small Town Romance
This book involves not only the love triangle but also something that happened to poor Lennon to almost break her in the past. Her best friends were the only ones that supported her, and she never wanted to ruin that friendship. Unfortunately, love triangles are always complicated, and Jennifer portrays it very well in this book. Eventually, Lennon chooses in the book, and I’m glad she chose the one she loved the most. She still loved the other but had different feelings for him. I had a feeling she would want the one person she did in the book, but it did break my heart that the other one didn’t get chosen. I’m glad that the person is going to get his book.
If you are looking for a love triangle book that involves best friends that is also a small-town romance, then this book is for you.
Story Rating: 4 stars
Steaminess Rating: 2 stars
Standalone or part of series: Standalone
Do I recommend this book? Yes.
Will I read other books from the author? Yes.
Tropes/Elements: Love Triangle; Friends-to-Lovers; Small Town Romance
October 14, 2019
This is a story about three best friends who fall in love with one another. Lennon lives with her mother and stepfather growing up and has a troubled relationship with her mother. It’s a love hate relationship. Her best friends are Finn and Brady. As they grow up Lennon tells them how she hates her mother, and they see it in the way she treats her. When they graduate from high school something happens that changes Lennon. She carries a secret that only the three of them know besides her mother. Her mother calls her a liar, and Lennon leaves home only to return when she gets a call that her mother has died. Finn and Brady agree to return home with her to help her through the ordeal. They are adults now and Lennon loves both men and they love her in return. Will she be forced to make a choice between the two. This was a really good book about friends that will do anything for each other, and love that can’t be broken. Waiting to see what happens in the next book.
October 21, 2019
A love triangle that will keep you turning the pages long into the night. Lennon, Brady and Finn were all best friends. They both loved her and didn't push her to decide between them. She never could choose, because they were totally different people and she loved each one for different reasons. They go their separate ways after high school, staying in touch, and come back to their hometown when her mother dies.
Once she arrives, she knows, as well as they do, that she will have to make a choice at some point. She realizes that her mother kept some important information from her and with their help, she faces the truth head on. There are twists, turns, heart-felt emotions, and a shocking ending that will leave you wondering what you just read. One of the men gets his HEA with Lennon, leaving me wondering what happens to the other and can they all remain friends.
I highly recommend this book. I received an ARC in exchange for an honest, voluntary review.
Once she arrives, she knows, as well as they do, that she will have to make a choice at some point. She realizes that her mother kept some important information from her and with their help, she faces the truth head on. There are twists, turns, heart-felt emotions, and a shocking ending that will leave you wondering what you just read. One of the men gets his HEA with Lennon, leaving me wondering what happens to the other and can they all remain friends.
I highly recommend this book. I received an ARC in exchange for an honest, voluntary review.
April 7, 2020
Absolutely stunning
I love a good triangle.
I went into this one blind and hoping for the best. And that's just what I got the best. Jennifer Millikin has an amazing way with words and plays with my emotions in the most fascinating ways. The triangle between Lennon, Brady and Finn was perfection. They grew up together and after leaving for college 8 years ago they all went their separate ways. When Lennon's mom died and she had to go back home the boys don't even hesitate. Going home is hard after everything that happened with her parents when she was a teenager. I wasnt expecting the rumors to be what they were and I might have liked some clarity to what happened but that wasn't my main concern.
My main concern was going to be who she picked. I 10000% guessed who it was. I'm not sure that would've been my choice but I don't think my choice matters much.
I really loved this one and had a difficult time putting it down.
I love a good triangle.
I went into this one blind and hoping for the best. And that's just what I got the best. Jennifer Millikin has an amazing way with words and plays with my emotions in the most fascinating ways. The triangle between Lennon, Brady and Finn was perfection. They grew up together and after leaving for college 8 years ago they all went their separate ways. When Lennon's mom died and she had to go back home the boys don't even hesitate. Going home is hard after everything that happened with her parents when she was a teenager. I wasnt expecting the rumors to be what they were and I might have liked some clarity to what happened but that wasn't my main concern.
My main concern was going to be who she picked. I 10000% guessed who it was. I'm not sure that would've been my choice but I don't think my choice matters much.
I really loved this one and had a difficult time putting it down.
October 19, 2019
I read this long read all in one sitting ... I stayed up waaaay beyond a reasonable time. However, I was so entwined in this story, that I just had to keep reading to the end, to see how everything eventually unfolded. I must admit that, a first for me, I was three for three in knowing how things would unfold.
This story was well written, original and believable. The characterizations were excellently done, so much so, they seemed to appear to leap off the pages and demand the reader pay attention to them. There was great romance portrayed throughout this tale with very few sensual scenes enacted. Not saying there was a lack of sexual tension between the main characters; Ms. Millikin still kept the reader on their toes but without the use of many sensual scenes.
Highly recommended reading material
I voluntarily received a free copy of this novel via Voracious Readers Only and I am leaving an honest and unbiased review. I have no affiliation to this author.
This story was well written, original and believable. The characterizations were excellently done, so much so, they seemed to appear to leap off the pages and demand the reader pay attention to them. There was great romance portrayed throughout this tale with very few sensual scenes enacted. Not saying there was a lack of sexual tension between the main characters; Ms. Millikin still kept the reader on their toes but without the use of many sensual scenes.
Highly recommended reading material
I voluntarily received a free copy of this novel via Voracious Readers Only and I am leaving an honest and unbiased review. I have no affiliation to this author.
September 19, 2024
It was very predictable. I knew who she was going to choose after reading the first chapter essentially. It was very clear to me who was the one and I understood it by the way she was talking about him. I didn't particularly like Lennon. I found her very selfish and the whole choosing the one was very dull for me. She kept saying that she didn't know and she wasn't playing games with them but come on... Even after 8 years you don't know who you are in love with??? It was stupid end of it. About Finn and Brady what can I say, they were ok I guess, but they were unrealistic and the whole story was a little bit unreal, honestly. Nothing like that happens in real life, not this way I mean. The only thing that surprised me, but not so much if you thing about it, it's the final revelation. So, for me it's 3 star
October 15, 2019
I could not put this book down! I just had to know how it ended. It is the story of two best friends that love the same girl who also happens to be their best friend. Talk about complicated! Through an array of flashbacks you see the tangled web Jen weaves so elegantly. I did figure out about a third of the way through which man she should end up with and was happily surprised when I was right. Beyond the Pale exceeded my expectation and like a excellent cup of coffee, this book was good til the last drop. Be ready to pick your jaw off the floor when you read the last page. Not even I saw that coming. I had to read it aloud to my sister I was so shocked.
I was delighted to receive this as an ARC for an honest review.
I was delighted to receive this as an ARC for an honest review.
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