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Happily Ever Alpha World
Until Now
A Swift Family crossover
Tennessee Veterinarian Dominique Grant has a problem. The man who just walked into her life doesn’t fit her well-planned vision. How many red flags can be waving at once?
He’s geographically undesirable.
He’s never known parenthood.
He’s got a Harley and the swagger that goes with it.
But not all storms come to destroy. Some come to clear a path.
California contractor Maxen Ripley is about to discover what lies outside the comfort zone. A beautiful, smart woman has upended the familiar and now he sees a new world where he must choose a life, not settle for one.
For Dominique and Maxen there is no room for romances that require so much effort… Until Now.
Until Now is part of the Aurora Rose Reynolds' Happily Ever Alpha World. If you loved Until July, then you will want to read Until Now.
Tennessee Veterinarian Dominique Grant has a problem. The man who just walked into her life doesn’t fit her well-planned vision. How many red flags can be waving at once?
He’s geographically undesirable.
He’s never known parenthood.
He’s got a Harley and the swagger that goes with it.
But not all storms come to destroy. Some come to clear a path.
California contractor Maxen Ripley is about to discover what lies outside the comfort zone. A beautiful, smart woman has upended the familiar and now he sees a new world where he must choose a life, not settle for one.
For Dominique and Maxen there is no room for romances that require so much effort… Until Now.
Until Now is part of the Aurora Rose Reynolds' Happily Ever Alpha World. If you loved Until July, then you will want to read Until Now.
160 pages, Kindle Edition
Published January 29, 2021
186 people are currently reading
518 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 108 reviews
January 30, 2021
4.5 Stars!
Leslie Pike is brand spanking new to me and what better way to be introduced than my favorite author's world. I was a huge, huge fan of Until July so I was super pumped for this beauty. I mean what a cover and what a synopsis. I was all in before I even started this journey.
Until Now was a quick romance that packed a serious punch right to the heart and kept me hooked from the first word to the very last. Swoony, steamy, a fun read, all the good stuff. Dominique and Maxen stole my heart and had me all in my feelings. From their first meeting to the last chapter, yeah I just couldn't get enough.
If you are a fan of ARR and have enjoyed the Happily Ever Alpha World then you will adore this new romance.
I highly recommend this book.
Reviewed for Renee Entress's Blog.
Leslie Pike is brand spanking new to me and what better way to be introduced than my favorite author's world. I was a huge, huge fan of Until July so I was super pumped for this beauty. I mean what a cover and what a synopsis. I was all in before I even started this journey.
Until Now was a quick romance that packed a serious punch right to the heart and kept me hooked from the first word to the very last. Swoony, steamy, a fun read, all the good stuff. Dominique and Maxen stole my heart and had me all in my feelings. From their first meeting to the last chapter, yeah I just couldn't get enough.
If you are a fan of ARR and have enjoyed the Happily Ever Alpha World then you will adore this new romance.
I highly recommend this book.
Reviewed for Renee Entress's Blog.
January 29, 2021
Ok, so I have found that the "Until" series are very hit-and-miss for me. Rarely do they live up to Aurora Rose Reynolds original series and this was not one of them.
It starts off with a vet doc named Dominique who works with July Silver (nee Mason) at her practice. She is a widowed single mom with a 13 year old named Bing. Along comes Maxen, who is an old acquaintance of Wes (July's husband). He is in town for a short time taking care of his nephew Hunter, while his sister recovers from a bad car accident- which terribly killed their dog. This is how Dominique and Maxon meet.
The rest is pretty much about how their relationship develops and so on. He tries to leave and it doesn't happen. Nothing that exciting. Seriously.
Now here are the problems with this story:
- a lot of nonsense paragraphs, sentences and characters left me feeling like "so what?" No point to a lot of it, mainly page fillers and fluff. No, it is not necessary to have a page about Maxen going #2 in the bathroom and what he is thinking while doing this. No, we don't need to know every thought that comes into their heads, a lot of it being useless info.
- for a vet and grown woman, I found Dominique to be very immature. A lot of her internal dialogue was too "teenage drama" for me and again left me feeling like "so what?!" after a lot of her chapters.
- Why would you discuss your adult relationship problems with your 13 year old? From a mom perspective - none of it is their business. At all. Maybe that is why her son calls her "woman" when addressing her. And sorry, but giving the boys their own chapter just showed what jerks they are. And why leave 13 year olds alone for days at a time? Unrealistic.
- The sex scenes... not sexy at all. Too many cheesy lines and it made me cringe. It just wasn't sexy at all.
- The most important part of the entire "Until" series was missing. There was no Boom! I mean, sure they had a crush on each other and dated, but just no magic. It was such a letdown.
- I hate that she made my Asher Mason into a misogynist. No, watching Dirty Dancing will not turn you into a chick. Grow up. And I didn't recall Wes being such a jerk from his book.
This book was a mess and I feel terrible for being so excited about it.
It starts off with a vet doc named Dominique who works with July Silver (nee Mason) at her practice. She is a widowed single mom with a 13 year old named Bing. Along comes Maxen, who is an old acquaintance of Wes (July's husband). He is in town for a short time taking care of his nephew Hunter, while his sister recovers from a bad car accident- which terribly killed their dog. This is how Dominique and Maxon meet.
The rest is pretty much about how their relationship develops and so on. He tries to leave and it doesn't happen. Nothing that exciting. Seriously.
Now here are the problems with this story:
- a lot of nonsense paragraphs, sentences and characters left me feeling like "so what?" No point to a lot of it, mainly page fillers and fluff. No, it is not necessary to have a page about Maxen going #2 in the bathroom and what he is thinking while doing this. No, we don't need to know every thought that comes into their heads, a lot of it being useless info.
- for a vet and grown woman, I found Dominique to be very immature. A lot of her internal dialogue was too "teenage drama" for me and again left me feeling like "so what?!" after a lot of her chapters.
- Why would you discuss your adult relationship problems with your 13 year old? From a mom perspective - none of it is their business. At all. Maybe that is why her son calls her "woman" when addressing her. And sorry, but giving the boys their own chapter just showed what jerks they are. And why leave 13 year olds alone for days at a time? Unrealistic.
- The sex scenes... not sexy at all. Too many cheesy lines and it made me cringe. It just wasn't sexy at all.
- The most important part of the entire "Until" series was missing. There was no Boom! I mean, sure they had a crush on each other and dated, but just no magic. It was such a letdown.
- I hate that she made my Asher Mason into a misogynist. No, watching Dirty Dancing will not turn you into a chick. Grow up. And I didn't recall Wes being such a jerk from his book.
This book was a mess and I feel terrible for being so excited about it.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
January 24, 2021
This was such a great visit back to ARR’s Until world! Pike does a fantastic job giving a voice to Reynold’s beloved characters while making this story her own.
Maxen and Dominique lead very different lives but they want the same things out of it. When they meet, it’s clear that there is an attraction, a chemistry. As they grow closer, their lives become enmeshed with one another’s. I really enjoyed their journey and the way that they blended together. I was eager to find out how they’d make things work when the reality of their separate lives was facing them head on. Could they beat the odds or would they fizzle out?
On top of the romance and excitement between Maxen and Dominique, we were treated to our fave Until Series characters as well as a slew of new faces. While I did miss a bit of the danger and suspense I’m used to with ARR’s series, this was really fun and sweet. I was completely wrapped up in their story and will definitely be checking out more from Pike.
January 24, 2021
4* Sexy Fun Stars
This was a cute love story with a very sexy alpha Maxen and a loveable veterinarian single mom Dominique. Their attraction towards each other was instant and before they knew it, they were deep into a loving relationship that neither was looking for.
A big hurdle in the way of their relationship is that Maxen is only temporarily in Tennessee to look after his sister and nephew after they were involved in a terrible car accident. When it comes time for him to return to his business in California decisions have to be made that not only affect him and Dominique but the family that they have created.
The secondary characters were real and loveable and were pivotal to the happy ever after they were wanting. I really enjoyed this quick easy flowing sexy read.
An ARC was received, all opinions are my own.
This was a cute love story with a very sexy alpha Maxen and a loveable veterinarian single mom Dominique. Their attraction towards each other was instant and before they knew it, they were deep into a loving relationship that neither was looking for.
A big hurdle in the way of their relationship is that Maxen is only temporarily in Tennessee to look after his sister and nephew after they were involved in a terrible car accident. When it comes time for him to return to his business in California decisions have to be made that not only affect him and Dominique but the family that they have created.
The secondary characters were real and loveable and were pivotal to the happy ever after they were wanting. I really enjoyed this quick easy flowing sexy read.
An ARC was received, all opinions are my own.
February 6, 2021
Something about the story telling style didn’t work for me. First time for me to read something from this author.
It came off as stilted, bumpy, and somewhat rough. Maybe the pacing was off? I’m not sure. And while I’m normally a fan of dual POV stories, I think the transitions between Maxen and Dominique from chapter to chapter contributed to that choppiness.
It came off as stilted, bumpy, and somewhat rough. Maybe the pacing was off? I’m not sure. And while I’m normally a fan of dual POV stories, I think the transitions between Maxen and Dominique from chapter to chapter contributed to that choppiness.
January 29, 2021
I thoroughly enjoyed this book. I am a big fan of The Happily Ever Alpha series and this book is a great addition to that world. Maxen and Dominique were great lead characters. They were mature and had a real grown up relationship. They communicated often and weren’t afraid of letting their feelings for each other grow. It was great to see Asher and November and Wes and July again. The boys Bing and Hunter were also great side characters, it would be great to get books for them when they’re older. Maxen was completely swoon worthy. He went from a carefree bachelor to a family man seamlessly. He was incredibly mature and just went with the flow of life. Both characters dealt with their feelings and problems that popped up maturely and with consideration of others. This book was incredibly steamy. Dominique and Maxen had scorching hot chemistry and the sex scenes were so well done. I highly recommend this book. It was such a nice and happy read. This past year has been extremely tough and I really need to read more books like this.
I voluntarily read an arc copy for an honest review. All thoughts and feelings are mine and mine alone.
Safety and Spoilers
This book was completely safe. A little ow/om drama but it is really minor and nothing comes of it. The H and h communicated and didn’t let anything interfere with their relationship. H’s past wasn’t really mentioned except for an old ex and h was celibate for years due to raising her son and putting him first. She felt she wasn’t a ONS kind of woman and she never found anyone she really connected with. h is a widower who lost her husband ten years earlier. She had processed his passing and wasn’t hanging on to the past. There is no abuse of any kind.
I voluntarily read an arc copy for an honest review. All thoughts and feelings are mine and mine alone.
Safety and Spoilers
This book was completely safe. A little ow/om drama but it is really minor and nothing comes of it. The H and h communicated and didn’t let anything interfere with their relationship. H’s past wasn’t really mentioned except for an old ex and h was celibate for years due to raising her son and putting him first. She felt she wasn’t a ONS kind of woman and she never found anyone she really connected with. h is a widower who lost her husband ten years earlier. She had processed his passing and wasn’t hanging on to the past. There is no abuse of any kind.
February 5, 2021
This was a great little read. Not too short or long, perfect for the storyline. Leslie Pike’s writing is easy and always flows well. The story isn’t riddled with angst even tho hard decisions need to be made about the future. It’s what I would call enjoyable emotion because the story made my heart happy. Maxen and Dominique made for a great couple and I enjoyed seeing them get their HEA! The chemistry between them was undeniable and the story was fun. What more can you ask for in an afternoon escape?! :) I’ve enjoyed a lot of Leslie Pike’s stories and now I really want to go back and read Until July by ARR!
January 28, 2021
If you have ever read an ARR book then you will love this one. I loved getting back into this world.
Makes me wish I could go back and read all the books again, but knowing what happens 😊
Dominique is a vet and she and July works together. When she meets Maxen who is in town to look after his nephew after his sister was in an accident. But would it be worth it to start something if she doesn’t even know if he will be staying? But hey you only live once, right…
This had everything you would love in a short hot steamy alpha male book. And this is definitely going on my favourite Boom List. Maxen and Dominique had amazing chemistry and man were they hot together. Definitely a book you would want to add to your TBR list ♥ 😊
Read on behalf of
Fay's Corner
Makes me wish I could go back and read all the books again, but knowing what happens 😊
Dominique is a vet and she and July works together. When she meets Maxen who is in town to look after his nephew after his sister was in an accident. But would it be worth it to start something if she doesn’t even know if he will be staying? But hey you only live once, right…
This had everything you would love in a short hot steamy alpha male book. And this is definitely going on my favourite Boom List. Maxen and Dominique had amazing chemistry and man were they hot together. Definitely a book you would want to add to your TBR list ♥ 😊
Read on behalf of
Fay's Corner
January 13, 2021
This is a NEW to me author and books. I absolutely love the HEA world and have read them all so far. I try not to mention too much since these are intertwined and well worth diving into fully. Although I have read every single Aurora book and related, I would say that I think this can be a stand alone, but once the previous mention characters come out, then of course it would make it harder. I would suggest reading UNTIL JULY first (which was one of my favorites) that said, unfortunately I was not able to connect with the author's writing style but did enjoy the story. It was exciting and to see the previous characters a little more of them and all intertwined. It's a cute love story with a single-mom heroine and a single handsome early 40s hero, they fit well together and the world. Glad I was able to review another beautiful story!
January 30, 2021
4.5 Stars ⭐️
Dominique and Maxen have an instant attraction that quickly becomes more. The relationship happens fast, and in this story it worked for me. I still felt the emotions and the butterflies.
The writing is really great.
It’s super hot and steamy. Then, there’s fun and humorous banter and an amazing sense of “family” That family includes friends and adorable dogs.
I love the mix of raw sensuality and real emotions.
The secondary characters are great.
The boys add a fun and emotional aspect to the story.
It’s a very satisfying romance between adults navigating a relationship that has a few obstacles.
It gave me all the warm and happy feelings and it definitely served me some incredibly sexy times.
Maxen and Dominique have amazing chemistry!
Dominique and Maxen have an instant attraction that quickly becomes more. The relationship happens fast, and in this story it worked for me. I still felt the emotions and the butterflies.
The writing is really great.
It’s super hot and steamy. Then, there’s fun and humorous banter and an amazing sense of “family” That family includes friends and adorable dogs.
I love the mix of raw sensuality and real emotions.
The secondary characters are great.
The boys add a fun and emotional aspect to the story.
It’s a very satisfying romance between adults navigating a relationship that has a few obstacles.
It gave me all the warm and happy feelings and it definitely served me some incredibly sexy times.
Maxen and Dominique have amazing chemistry!
January 29, 2021
Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ / 5 stars.
Trigger Warnings: N/A.
Spoiler Free Review | ARC kindly provided by Give Me Books and Boom Factory Publishing, LLC in exchange of an honest review.
"Don't mistake that for indecision. I love you without hesitation, darling man."
I will try my best, but I don't think I can properly explain how cute, endearing, and absolutely BEAUTIFUL this book was. I am so happy that I read this, and I liked it much more than I expected. And that dog on the cover???? OH MY GOD!!!! This just bring forth all the feels.
So, for fans of the Until Series, this book will be perfect, especially if you like the vibes of Aurora Rose Reynolds' more recent books. With this I mean that even though the blurb compares it to Until July, it is much more similar to Until December. In my opinion, the only reason why they compare it to the former is because there are many cameos from July and Wes, which were a treat, but that doesn't mean that both books follow a similar dynamic.
**
Sometimes peer pressure is a positive thing.
**
I'll start off with what I didn't like, just to get it out of the way. I thought that most of the writing was a little weird. This is very much a sweet book, centered in family and healthy relationships. However, because it is part of the Happily Ever Alpha World, I think the author might've felt pressured to make the romance similar to those of the original series, but I didn't like the way she did it. Now, don't get me wrong, this only me assuming that that was her intention, and it wasn't badly written AT ALL. It just wasn't my cup of tea. I felt like many metaphors were forced, and other sentences were phrased in a strange way, but that's really it. It is definitely not something that discourage me from reading it or that affected my overall experience.
The plot was very homely and grounded. Dominique and Maxen's story relationship grows significantly throughout the books, they constantly manage it as adults, in a world in which they're plagued by responsibilities. I did like both these characters very much, particularly while they were getting to know each other. However, towards the middle point of the book, it became little dull because they had reached a certain comfort in their situation, but then when the final issue started to unravel, things picked up again. All in all, they were very cute and definitely worthy of being part of these group of characters that we love and cherish so much. Definitely worthy of the BOOM.
**
This will forever be known as The Afternoon of a Hundred Fights.
**
BUT, what was probably my favorite part of this book BY FAR were the kids. I was touched by both Hunter and Bing. I thought that their situation was unique, and their personalities were gorgeously developed. I am still very young, so it's still very fresh in my mind everything that I felt when I was their age. I can honestly and whole-heartedly say that they behaved like real teenagers. And then we got chapters from their POVs!!! (don't worry, not really a spoiler, I needed to mention it because I was very excited when it happened). I'm very impressed by Leslie Pike's job in this, she did wonderful.
Overall, this is, without a doubt, a short and cute romance novel about family and friendship. If you're looking for a light read that will make you happy and fuzzy inside, this is the book for you. Even though it's part of the Happily Ever Alpha World, this author's voice shines through, which gives it a unique vibe that is very hard to achieve most of the time.
Trigger Warnings: N/A.
Spoiler Free Review | ARC kindly provided by Give Me Books and Boom Factory Publishing, LLC in exchange of an honest review.
"Don't mistake that for indecision. I love you without hesitation, darling man."
I will try my best, but I don't think I can properly explain how cute, endearing, and absolutely BEAUTIFUL this book was. I am so happy that I read this, and I liked it much more than I expected. And that dog on the cover???? OH MY GOD!!!! This just bring forth all the feels.
So, for fans of the Until Series, this book will be perfect, especially if you like the vibes of Aurora Rose Reynolds' more recent books. With this I mean that even though the blurb compares it to Until July, it is much more similar to Until December. In my opinion, the only reason why they compare it to the former is because there are many cameos from July and Wes, which were a treat, but that doesn't mean that both books follow a similar dynamic.
**
Sometimes peer pressure is a positive thing.
**
I'll start off with what I didn't like, just to get it out of the way. I thought that most of the writing was a little weird. This is very much a sweet book, centered in family and healthy relationships. However, because it is part of the Happily Ever Alpha World, I think the author might've felt pressured to make the romance similar to those of the original series, but I didn't like the way she did it. Now, don't get me wrong, this only me assuming that that was her intention, and it wasn't badly written AT ALL. It just wasn't my cup of tea. I felt like many metaphors were forced, and other sentences were phrased in a strange way, but that's really it. It is definitely not something that discourage me from reading it or that affected my overall experience.
The plot was very homely and grounded. Dominique and Maxen's story relationship grows significantly throughout the books, they constantly manage it as adults, in a world in which they're plagued by responsibilities. I did like both these characters very much, particularly while they were getting to know each other. However, towards the middle point of the book, it became little dull because they had reached a certain comfort in their situation, but then when the final issue started to unravel, things picked up again. All in all, they were very cute and definitely worthy of being part of these group of characters that we love and cherish so much. Definitely worthy of the BOOM.
**
This will forever be known as The Afternoon of a Hundred Fights.
**
BUT, what was probably my favorite part of this book BY FAR were the kids. I was touched by both Hunter and Bing. I thought that their situation was unique, and their personalities were gorgeously developed. I am still very young, so it's still very fresh in my mind everything that I felt when I was their age. I can honestly and whole-heartedly say that they behaved like real teenagers. And then we got chapters from their POVs!!! (don't worry, not really a spoiler, I needed to mention it because I was very excited when it happened). I'm very impressed by Leslie Pike's job in this, she did wonderful.
Overall, this is, without a doubt, a short and cute romance novel about family and friendship. If you're looking for a light read that will make you happy and fuzzy inside, this is the book for you. Even though it's part of the Happily Ever Alpha World, this author's voice shines through, which gives it a unique vibe that is very hard to achieve most of the time.
January 20, 2021
Thanks to boomfactory publishing for providing me a free ARC in exchange for an honest review
Title: Until Now
Author: Leslie Pike
Release date: January 29th 2021
4⭐️
📚
Synopsis:
Maxen Ripley just moved from California to Tennessee. Again. Except this time, it wasn’t because Maxen was in love, but because his sister, Kim, was recently in a tragic car accident that left her broken, her son traumatized, and her dog dead. When Maxen heads to the local veterinary office to pick up the dog’s ashes, he never expects the immediate attraction between him and Dr. Dominique Grant. Turns out, they have mutual friends, a mutual love of motorcycles and furry critters, and a mutual interest in each other. Even though the sparks are flying, Dominique has a son, a support system, and a career in Tennessee and Maxen has a well established contractor business in California. As Kim starts to heal and Maxen can think about heading back home, will home still be in California?
📚
What I liked:
-This author and the HEA universe is new to me. While I could tell that many of the side characters clearly had their own stories elsewhere, it didn’t detract at all from Dominique and Maxen’s story. This book can definitely be read as a stand-alone and might make you want to pick up some other books in this universe.
-LOVED the family dynamic. It was so nice to watch the relationships develop between Dominique, Bing, Maxen, Hunter, and Kim. The author did a particularly beautiful job showing how the characters really grew to be a family and how their relationships helped them overcome challenges to become stronger people.
-There were some really humorous moments in this book. The secretary who announced Maxen’s arrival to Dominique the first time she meets him had my giggling away.
-The end of this book was really strong. I loved how the author switched to Bing and Hunter for the final few chapters to lead to the climax of the story. I also loved the epilogue.
What I didn’t like
-The relationship between Maxen and Dominique was instant-love. I personally don’t love the love-at-first-sight trope, but if you don’t mind it, it won’t detract from the book.
-The pacing in the beginning/middle of the book felt a little slow. Dominique and Maxen have an almost instantly beautiful relationship, but they have big issues to resolve as a couple that they ignore almost completely until the end of the novel.
📚
Final thoughts:
This was a pleasant, light-hearted, predictable, and super fast read. If you enjoy instant love stories and then watching how the characters learn to fit into each other’s lives knowing that they are going to get their happy ending, this would be a perfect read for you.
Title: Until Now
Author: Leslie Pike
Release date: January 29th 2021
4⭐️
📚
Synopsis:
Maxen Ripley just moved from California to Tennessee. Again. Except this time, it wasn’t because Maxen was in love, but because his sister, Kim, was recently in a tragic car accident that left her broken, her son traumatized, and her dog dead. When Maxen heads to the local veterinary office to pick up the dog’s ashes, he never expects the immediate attraction between him and Dr. Dominique Grant. Turns out, they have mutual friends, a mutual love of motorcycles and furry critters, and a mutual interest in each other. Even though the sparks are flying, Dominique has a son, a support system, and a career in Tennessee and Maxen has a well established contractor business in California. As Kim starts to heal and Maxen can think about heading back home, will home still be in California?
📚
What I liked:
-This author and the HEA universe is new to me. While I could tell that many of the side characters clearly had their own stories elsewhere, it didn’t detract at all from Dominique and Maxen’s story. This book can definitely be read as a stand-alone and might make you want to pick up some other books in this universe.
-LOVED the family dynamic. It was so nice to watch the relationships develop between Dominique, Bing, Maxen, Hunter, and Kim. The author did a particularly beautiful job showing how the characters really grew to be a family and how their relationships helped them overcome challenges to become stronger people.
-There were some really humorous moments in this book. The secretary who announced Maxen’s arrival to Dominique the first time she meets him had my giggling away.
-The end of this book was really strong. I loved how the author switched to Bing and Hunter for the final few chapters to lead to the climax of the story. I also loved the epilogue.
What I didn’t like
-The relationship between Maxen and Dominique was instant-love. I personally don’t love the love-at-first-sight trope, but if you don’t mind it, it won’t detract from the book.
-The pacing in the beginning/middle of the book felt a little slow. Dominique and Maxen have an almost instantly beautiful relationship, but they have big issues to resolve as a couple that they ignore almost completely until the end of the novel.
📚
Final thoughts:
This was a pleasant, light-hearted, predictable, and super fast read. If you enjoy instant love stories and then watching how the characters learn to fit into each other’s lives knowing that they are going to get their happy ending, this would be a perfect read for you.
January 28, 2021
Until Now by Leslie Pike is a standalone contemporary romance told in first person, dual POV. It's a crossover from her Swift series and is part of Aurora Rose Reynold's Happily Ever Alpha world.
Dominique is a Tennessee veterinarian and single mom. Maxen is a Harley-riding contractor from California. He's in town helping take care of his nephew while his sister is in the hospital recovering from an accident. When Dominique and Maxen meet, they have an instant attraction. As they spend time together, alone and with the kids, their lives soon become merged. What will happen when it's time for Maxen to go back home?
I enjoyed Dominique and Maxen's story. On the surface, I liked them as characters, along with their teens, Bing and Hunter, and I thought the storyline was enjoyable too. I write "on the surface" because for some reason, that's as deep as I was able to get while reading. I struggled to connect with the characters, and as I read the story, I didn't really feel anything. It's odd to say, but I felt most connected during the epilogue which was my favorite part. I have read and enjoyed Pike's Swift series, but have never read any of Reynold's HEA books. I'm not sure if I would have had a different reading experience if I had been familiar with the HEA world. Overall, I liked the story. It was a pleasant read.
*** I voluntarily read and reviewed an ARC. ***
Dominique is a Tennessee veterinarian and single mom. Maxen is a Harley-riding contractor from California. He's in town helping take care of his nephew while his sister is in the hospital recovering from an accident. When Dominique and Maxen meet, they have an instant attraction. As they spend time together, alone and with the kids, their lives soon become merged. What will happen when it's time for Maxen to go back home?
I enjoyed Dominique and Maxen's story. On the surface, I liked them as characters, along with their teens, Bing and Hunter, and I thought the storyline was enjoyable too. I write "on the surface" because for some reason, that's as deep as I was able to get while reading. I struggled to connect with the characters, and as I read the story, I didn't really feel anything. It's odd to say, but I felt most connected during the epilogue which was my favorite part. I have read and enjoyed Pike's Swift series, but have never read any of Reynold's HEA books. I'm not sure if I would have had a different reading experience if I had been familiar with the HEA world. Overall, I liked the story. It was a pleasant read.
*** I voluntarily read and reviewed an ARC. ***
January 27, 2021
Any author who can reference the classic Hollywood romance 'The Quite Man' story John Wayne and Maureen O'Hara, has my attention because that author is my type of author and so Leslie Pike had already won me over, but she cemented the deal by not only creating a brilliant couple in Dominique and Maxen but also basing her story around my fav couple in the original Until series July and Wes in 'Until July'.
Until Now is such a down to earth story - widow Dominique has brought up her 13-year old son Bing on her own since he was 3, and I really enjoyed the banter between the two as Bing shows all the normal traits of a 13 year - you know driving your mom crazy, not doing what you are told! Mazen is in town looking after his nephew Hunter after Hunter's mom was hurt in a car crash. Dominique is the local vet and that is how Mazen and Dominique's stories start - from nearly the moment they meet their romance started and so did a great friendship between Bing and Hunter. But Mazen is only in town for a short time and then he is returning to his home and life on the other side of the country. But as the time draws near from him to go some hard decisions need to be made one of which can a long-distance relationship really succeed!
I really did enjoy this book and worthy book in the Happily Ever After Series
Until Now is such a down to earth story - widow Dominique has brought up her 13-year old son Bing on her own since he was 3, and I really enjoyed the banter between the two as Bing shows all the normal traits of a 13 year - you know driving your mom crazy, not doing what you are told! Mazen is in town looking after his nephew Hunter after Hunter's mom was hurt in a car crash. Dominique is the local vet and that is how Mazen and Dominique's stories start - from nearly the moment they meet their romance started and so did a great friendship between Bing and Hunter. But Mazen is only in town for a short time and then he is returning to his home and life on the other side of the country. But as the time draws near from him to go some hard decisions need to be made one of which can a long-distance relationship really succeed!
I really did enjoy this book and worthy book in the Happily Ever After Series
January 30, 2021
Sweet story.
Happily Ever Alpha Kindle Worlds is based on the bestselling Until Series by Aurora Rose Reynolds.
The ARR connection is July.
Pets feature heavily.
The Hero and heroine meet and are both invited to a BBQ at July's house.
The heroine arrives with a date.
She has been seeing him 6 months, they are just friends, he'd like it to be more it she's not interested. She shuts down any physical contact with the other man.
I did feel although she says she's been clear about her feelings that calling him her date and it's been going on for 6 months was a bit misleading on her part.
And it painted in a way that he's not getting the message that she's not interested.
Small other woman drama, other woman express interest, the Hero refuses.
The heroine disputes the way he refused and they have a bit of a tiff over it.
No intimate scenes other than the Hero and heroine.
Single mother heroine, widowed 10 years ago.
HEA.
Epilogue.
Happily Ever Alpha Kindle Worlds is based on the bestselling Until Series by Aurora Rose Reynolds.
The ARR connection is July.
Pets feature heavily.
The Hero and heroine meet and are both invited to a BBQ at July's house.
The heroine arrives with a date.
She has been seeing him 6 months, they are just friends, he'd like it to be more it she's not interested. She shuts down any physical contact with the other man.
I did feel although she says she's been clear about her feelings that calling him her date and it's been going on for 6 months was a bit misleading on her part.
And it painted in a way that he's not getting the message that she's not interested.
Small other woman drama, other woman express interest, the Hero refuses.
The heroine disputes the way he refused and they have a bit of a tiff over it.
No intimate scenes other than the Hero and heroine.
Single mother heroine, widowed 10 years ago.
HEA.
Epilogue.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
February 3, 2021
A cute melding of Aurora Rose Reynolds World with Leslie Pikes Swift Family.
I liked Dominique, a widow who works as a veterinarian in a small town in Tennessee who meets and feels an instant connection with one of her patient's brother who is in town helping his sister recover from an accident. The two meet and feel this instant connection. For Maxen the last thing he had on his mind was finding love while in town for the next 3 months to help out his sister and nephew. But when he gets invited to a Fourth of July party and Dominique's son and his nephew hit it off, he finds every excuse to see the beautiful vet.
Maxen has been burned before by love. So when the end of the 3 months starts to sneak up on him, he has to decide whether this never before felt love is worth moving across the country for again.
I loved seeing the cameos from the Swift Family and really like Dominique and Maxen together. A cute insta love easy to read novella.
I liked Dominique, a widow who works as a veterinarian in a small town in Tennessee who meets and feels an instant connection with one of her patient's brother who is in town helping his sister recover from an accident. The two meet and feel this instant connection. For Maxen the last thing he had on his mind was finding love while in town for the next 3 months to help out his sister and nephew. But when he gets invited to a Fourth of July party and Dominique's son and his nephew hit it off, he finds every excuse to see the beautiful vet.
Maxen has been burned before by love. So when the end of the 3 months starts to sneak up on him, he has to decide whether this never before felt love is worth moving across the country for again.
I loved seeing the cameos from the Swift Family and really like Dominique and Maxen together. A cute insta love easy to read novella.
January 26, 2021
4.5 Stars for Until Now ( Happily Ever Alpha World ) by Leslie Pike
Leslie Pike is a new author to me but I love the HEA World so this book was always going to be on my radar and I have to say it was everything I expected and more.
If you love single mums and seriously hot alpha hero’s look no further than Maxen and Dominique’s story because this is a read with all the feels.....
Maxen is in town to look after his sister and nephew after they were involved in a car accident, he is only meant to be here temporarily so what happens when he meets and falls for the local vet Dominique, will he be prepared to stay or will his life in California pull him away......
Dominique should have known this man would be trouble after all he rides a Harley and walks with a seriously hot swagger but we can’t always control our heart and will Maxen break hers when he leaves town to go back home to his business in another state .....
A great read with all the feels, I fell hard and fast for Maxen and I adored Dominique, the chemistry is sizzling and the banter is witty and I need to check out more from the very talented Ms Pike.
Looking forward to more visits to the HEA World whilst finding new authors to follow.
Leslie Pike is a new author to me but I love the HEA World so this book was always going to be on my radar and I have to say it was everything I expected and more.
If you love single mums and seriously hot alpha hero’s look no further than Maxen and Dominique’s story because this is a read with all the feels.....
Maxen is in town to look after his sister and nephew after they were involved in a car accident, he is only meant to be here temporarily so what happens when he meets and falls for the local vet Dominique, will he be prepared to stay or will his life in California pull him away......
Dominique should have known this man would be trouble after all he rides a Harley and walks with a seriously hot swagger but we can’t always control our heart and will Maxen break hers when he leaves town to go back home to his business in another state .....
A great read with all the feels, I fell hard and fast for Maxen and I adored Dominique, the chemistry is sizzling and the banter is witty and I need to check out more from the very talented Ms Pike.
Looking forward to more visits to the HEA World whilst finding new authors to follow.
January 30, 2021
Until Now by Leslie Pike is part of Aurora Rose Reynolds' Happily Ever Alpha World. This is the story of Maxen Ripley and Dominique Grant. I liked how Maxen and Dominique started off as friends and their chemistry just grew from there. They talked, were open and not afraid to admit how they felt; definitely had no problems with letting the connection grow and see where things would blossom 🌸. I enjoyed reading how characters handled real life relationship problems which Maxen and Dominique handled with maturity and grace. The steamy scenes were written really well. Lots of sizzle. Great to see past characters like July, November , Asher and Wes make appearances. This is great addition to the HEA world series.
My Rating: 4.5 stars *******
My Rating: 4.5 stars *******
January 29, 2021
This is a sweet romance. This is my first book by Leslie Pike and I enjoyed reading it.
This is the story of Dominique, a single mom, and Maxen, who is in Tennessee to take care of her sister's family. It was only temporary for him, and the instant attraction he felt for Dominique was something he didn't expect. It's clear that they have different lives but as more time they spend together, their lives just somehow mesh together.
Between Dominique and Maxen, their chemistry was amazing. Then there's Dominique's relationship with his teen son. I loved that it's heavy on the family and friendship aspects, they have fun and witty banter. And because both of them are more mature characters, they don't go back and forth to figure things out. They know what they want and they go for it, especially their relationship.
This is the story of Dominique, a single mom, and Maxen, who is in Tennessee to take care of her sister's family. It was only temporary for him, and the instant attraction he felt for Dominique was something he didn't expect. It's clear that they have different lives but as more time they spend together, their lives just somehow mesh together.
Between Dominique and Maxen, their chemistry was amazing. Then there's Dominique's relationship with his teen son. I loved that it's heavy on the family and friendship aspects, they have fun and witty banter. And because both of them are more mature characters, they don't go back and forth to figure things out. They know what they want and they go for it, especially their relationship.
January 29, 2021
Dominique life is firmly entrenched in town between being a single mother to her teenage son Bing and her veterinary clinic. She may be attracted to Mazen however he isn’t in town permanently so is there any other way for this to end except in heartbreak?
Mazen is in town to help out his family after his sister’s accident. He has a life and a business in California but after meeting Dominique leaving may be the hardest thing he will ever have to do.
There is no denying the chemistry and connection between them but with their very different lives they must decide what and who they can’t live without.
Mazen is in town to help out his family after his sister’s accident. He has a life and a business in California but after meeting Dominique leaving may be the hardest thing he will ever have to do.
There is no denying the chemistry and connection between them but with their very different lives they must decide what and who they can’t live without.
January 28, 2021
3.5 stars
I’m always a little curious and a little worried when I pick up a book written in another author’s “world” - mainly because I’m not ever sure what to expect. Until Now is Ms Pike’s entry into a world created by Aurora Rose Reynolds, one I don’t know a whole lot about.
On one level, this was a book I really liked. The characters were interesting and like-able, their connection instant, and the developing relationship organic. I appreciated how both Dominique and Maxen were focused on family and seemed to have their priorities in order.
Where I struggled with Until Now is that I didn’t always hear Ms Pike’s “voice” in the story. It’s hard to put my finger on one particular moment, but there were places where the “world” and secondary characters seemed to overwhelm what was a really great story about getting a second chance at love.
January 31, 2021
Until Now gives us a boom with a slightly more gentle feel but no less intense. Dominique and Maxen’s story is one of chance, fate and taking a leap. Their story is emotional, passionate and heartfelt. It brings family to the forefront and has you enchanted by this couple and their story. As their chemistry and pull to each other grabs hold of your heart and soul you will be kept on the edge of your seat as the boom takes you to an ending that is explosive. A love story filled with an intensity and heat the you will feel deep under your skin.
February 2, 2021
Until Now by Leslie Pike is part of the Happily Ever Alpha World Series, but is a standalone book. This is the story of Maxen Ripley and Dominique Grant.
Maxen and Dominique are so opposite of each other with her being a single working mom in Tennessee and Dominque a single man from California who rides a motorcycle. Maxen is in town to help his sister who is hurt which leads him to Dominique. Although they are so different and start out in the friend zone we start to see that they may have a similar goal. This was a really enjoyable read...loved it.
Maxen and Dominique are so opposite of each other with her being a single working mom in Tennessee and Dominque a single man from California who rides a motorcycle. Maxen is in town to help his sister who is hurt which leads him to Dominique. Although they are so different and start out in the friend zone we start to see that they may have a similar goal. This was a really enjoyable read...loved it.
January 28, 2021
I loved this book! Leslie Pike does an amazing job of incorporating some of the Until Series characters by ARR. I loved seeing all the Maysons in this story. I loved the dialogue between characters and the multiple POVs.
Maxen is in town for a few months to help out his sister. Dominique is a veterinarian, and a single mom. They meet when Maxen comes into Dominique’s practice. Things heat up when their eyes meet. Their connection is instant and the relationship is fast paced. Maxen is an alpha and he makes it known that Dominique is his but what happens when he has to go back home? Will long distance love work or will the distance tear them apart?
*I read an early review copy of this book*
Maxen is in town for a few months to help out his sister. Dominique is a veterinarian, and a single mom. They meet when Maxen comes into Dominique’s practice. Things heat up when their eyes meet. Their connection is instant and the relationship is fast paced. Maxen is an alpha and he makes it known that Dominique is his but what happens when he has to go back home? Will long distance love work or will the distance tear them apart?
*I read an early review copy of this book*
January 28, 2021
This is a great addition to this series and is Dominique and Maxen’s journey. Maxen has a successful contracting business and he is only in town for a short time as he is there to help his sister and her son after a tragic car accident. Dominique is a single mom and the veterinarian in town, and from the moment she and Maxen meets, there is an instant attraction, and undeniable chemistry between them. There is an amazing group of secondary characters in this story. This is a well written story which is filled with emotions, drama, and is a steamy and all-consuming and addictive page turner. I look forward to reading more from this talented author whose work I highly recommend for all.
February 2, 2021
Wow! As with every Until book they just get better and better. I enjoyed each written word and the story coming together was brilliant. I enjoy this family and their love for each other and others. Beautiful story, wonderful author.
January 27, 2021
This is my first book from Leslie Pike and it certainly won’t be my last.
I love the HEA world and this book fits in beautifully while keeping her own style.
Maxen and Dominique are older characters, established in their careers.
I loved the progression of their sweet yet steamy love story, from insta love to HEA.
I’m off to to read The Curve (the first book in the crossover character series 👏🏻
I love the HEA world and this book fits in beautifully while keeping her own style.
Maxen and Dominique are older characters, established in their careers.
I loved the progression of their sweet yet steamy love story, from insta love to HEA.
I’m off to to read The Curve (the first book in the crossover character series 👏🏻
January 28, 2021
I enjoyed reading this book by Leslie which is part of the Until world by ARR. Maxen and Domenique are wonderful together and have that boom factor which I love. Add in a couple of teenage boys and some of the Mason clan and you have a great book. I was riveted from the start and at times I was laughing out loud at their antics. I was lucky enough to win an arc of this book.
January 29, 2021
This was a new to me author & her writing made this book a bit different than many of the Until series books, but still fits in well.
Dominique is sweet & Maxen is more hard, but these two work so well together. The attraction & chemistry was written so well. This temporary relationship turns into so, so much more than either of them expected. I’m a sucker for a single parent book & with Dominique being a single mom I was pulled in from the beginning.
I recommend this book. Told in dual POV.
Dominique is sweet & Maxen is more hard, but these two work so well together. The attraction & chemistry was written so well. This temporary relationship turns into so, so much more than either of them expected. I’m a sucker for a single parent book & with Dominique being a single mom I was pulled in from the beginning.
I recommend this book. Told in dual POV.
January 21, 2021
Review by: Jennifer
(4 stars)
A really good addition to the Happily Ever Alpha World, Maxen is in town to help take care of his sister and her son while she heals from a car accident. He is only here for a few months until she is back on her feet. Falling for the town vet was not in his game plan, but after the first meeting with Dominique something was pulling him in. Dominique has been a single mother for a long time, her world revolves around her job and her son. Maxen coming into the scene has Dominique wanting to explore more with him, but they both know they are on borrowed time. Will they be able to say goodbye when the time comes?
A very enjoyable read that gives us some drama, super hot naughty moments, and a bit of danger. I give this 4 stars.
(4 stars)
A really good addition to the Happily Ever Alpha World, Maxen is in town to help take care of his sister and her son while she heals from a car accident. He is only here for a few months until she is back on her feet. Falling for the town vet was not in his game plan, but after the first meeting with Dominique something was pulling him in. Dominique has been a single mother for a long time, her world revolves around her job and her son. Maxen coming into the scene has Dominique wanting to explore more with him, but they both know they are on borrowed time. Will they be able to say goodbye when the time comes?
A very enjoyable read that gives us some drama, super hot naughty moments, and a bit of danger. I give this 4 stars.
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