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Heart of Hope #5
Eight Long Years
April and I have been torn apart for eight years.
I didn’t think she’d leave me after I joined the military.
But her letter shredded me into pieces.
She’d clearly told me that we weren’t meant to be.
That everything we felt for each other was meaningless.
I didn’t believe her.
And I shouldn’t have.
There was something else at play.
April is my best friend’s little sister and he’s overprotective of her.
There’s still time to find out the truth.
Because I’m returning home.
And April is no longer just my ex girlfriend.
She’s also my employee.
My forbidden, tempting, and gorgeous employee.
And she’s hiding a secret.
A huge secret that I should’ve known about years ago.
I don’t think I could forgive her for keeping it from me.
But first… I have to find out what kept us apart.
And how I can make her mine forever.
A full-length second chance secret baby romance. Best friend’s li’l sister, secret baby, boss employee relationship…this one checks all the forbidden boxes. The perfect HEA and absolutely no cliff-hanger! ‘Eight Long Years’ is a part of the Heart of Hope series but stands alone. Books do not have to be read in order.
I didn’t think she’d leave me after I joined the military.
But her letter shredded me into pieces.
She’d clearly told me that we weren’t meant to be.
That everything we felt for each other was meaningless.
I didn’t believe her.
And I shouldn’t have.
There was something else at play.
April is my best friend’s little sister and he’s overprotective of her.
There’s still time to find out the truth.
Because I’m returning home.
And April is no longer just my ex girlfriend.
She’s also my employee.
My forbidden, tempting, and gorgeous employee.
And she’s hiding a secret.
A huge secret that I should’ve known about years ago.
I don’t think I could forgive her for keeping it from me.
But first… I have to find out what kept us apart.
And how I can make her mine forever.
A full-length second chance secret baby romance. Best friend’s li’l sister, secret baby, boss employee relationship…this one checks all the forbidden boxes. The perfect HEA and absolutely no cliff-hanger! ‘Eight Long Years’ is a part of the Heart of Hope series but stands alone. Books do not have to be read in order.
222 pages, Kindle Edition
Published September 4, 2020
660 people are currently reading
348 people want to read
About the author
Ajme Williams
139 books482 followersAjme Williams - mother, wife, daughter, dreamer, an avid reader and a writer.
When she's not writing romance, Ajme can be seen sipping coffee, gorging on dark chocolate, exercising, or travelling with family and friends. Cooking is therapeutic for her and she drools over Italian food...and men.
What to expect from her books?
Ajme loves variety, so expect a lot of second chances, secret babies, office romances, big fat fake weddings, curvy heroines and alpha heroes. HEA? Always, baby!
If you're a fan of emotional angsty contemporary romance, then you'll enjoy Ajme Williams.
When she's not writing romance, Ajme can be seen sipping coffee, gorging on dark chocolate, exercising, or travelling with family and friends. Cooking is therapeutic for her and she drools over Italian food...and men.
What to expect from her books?
Ajme loves variety, so expect a lot of second chances, secret babies, office romances, big fat fake weddings, curvy heroines and alpha heroes. HEA? Always, baby!
If you're a fan of emotional angsty contemporary romance, then you'll enjoy Ajme Williams.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 107 reviews
September 4, 2020
There were so many moments i wanted to yank my hair out with Jude and Aoril. There was major suspense, lack of trust, lies, betrayal, and years of deception. However, gratefully they FINALLY got through it all to give us a happily ever after.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
September 16, 2022
DNF at 71%
i don’t want to talk about it.
i don’t want to talk about it.
June 27, 2023
I can usually buy into keeping a child a secret for a decent enough reason. April thought she had told Jude in her letters. Jude got a Dear John letter instead so he has no idea that he has a kid or why April broke his heart. Someone has interfered in their relationship big time.
When Jude comes back into her life after 8 years… April just starts sleeping with him again very quickly. This enraged me for three reasons;
1. Thinking he’d dumped her while pregnant. She has no true answers about what happened but she also hasn’t forgiven him for what she believes to be true.
2. She believes he rejected their child and still continues to fuck him. 🤬
3. When she finally cottons on to the fact he isn’t aware of their daughter… she still doesn’t tell him. But again still continues to sleep with him. Jude only finds out by sheer accident. This disgusted me beyond belief.
Your more concerned about sex then you are your daughter having a father. I. CAN’T. EVEN!!!???
For 8 years April blamed Jude for not being in their lives, blamed him for abandoning her while pregnant, for her daughter not having a father & when he’s back… she still denies her child her Daddy. April had no right to hold anything against Jude anymore. I really don’t buy the excuse your protecting your kid from being hurt or rejected by their father but your still allowing him into your life by sleeping with him. How could this not make things a million times more complicated? Why does April get to have Jude in her life but her daughter doesn’t? It’s SELFISH!
It gets worse… when they finally figure out who interfered with their romance/family (April’s brother & supposed friend of Jude’s) April stands up for her brother after he did some truly deplorable things especially to Jude. It’s because of her brother her child & Jude missed out on 8 years together. While her brother got to play Daddy for her. 😡😡
I am so sick of relatives being forgiven just because their “blood” family. If my either of my brothers did that to me, my partner & my kid… I’d be perfectly fine to cut him out of my life forever. Who needs enemies when you have that kind of family? Christ!
I gave this book 1 ⭐️ just for the scene when Jude meets his daughter. That was so precious.
When Jude comes back into her life after 8 years… April just starts sleeping with him again very quickly. This enraged me for three reasons;
1. Thinking he’d dumped her while pregnant. She has no true answers about what happened but she also hasn’t forgiven him for what she believes to be true.
2. She believes he rejected their child and still continues to fuck him. 🤬
3. When she finally cottons on to the fact he isn’t aware of their daughter… she still doesn’t tell him. But again still continues to sleep with him. Jude only finds out by sheer accident. This disgusted me beyond belief.
Your more concerned about sex then you are your daughter having a father. I. CAN’T. EVEN!!!???
For 8 years April blamed Jude for not being in their lives, blamed him for abandoning her while pregnant, for her daughter not having a father & when he’s back… she still denies her child her Daddy. April had no right to hold anything against Jude anymore. I really don’t buy the excuse your protecting your kid from being hurt or rejected by their father but your still allowing him into your life by sleeping with him. How could this not make things a million times more complicated? Why does April get to have Jude in her life but her daughter doesn’t? It’s SELFISH!
It gets worse… when they finally figure out who interfered with their romance/family (April’s brother & supposed friend of Jude’s) April stands up for her brother after he did some truly deplorable things especially to Jude. It’s because of her brother her child & Jude missed out on 8 years together. While her brother got to play Daddy for her. 😡😡
I am so sick of relatives being forgiven just because their “blood” family. If my either of my brothers did that to me, my partner & my kid… I’d be perfectly fine to cut him out of my life forever. Who needs enemies when you have that kind of family? Christ!
I gave this book 1 ⭐️ just for the scene when Jude meets his daughter. That was so precious.
September 4, 2020
Williams, Ajme . . . 8 Long Years
April first met Jude when she was 11 and her older brother brought him home. At that time, she thought he was like all boys, boring and annoying. By 13 she was starting to notice boys. AT sixteen she was full on, head over heels in love with Jude. AT 18, her feelings for Jude were as strong as ever.
When her brother, August, was away at college for 4 years, Jude . would come over to their house and help with things that August had done. April and Jude became friends. Then one day IT happened.
When Jude left Bismarck, he had all intentions of coming back, being with April and having a family. But as they say . . . the best laid plans of mice and men . . . He had never gotten over April but when it was clear they didn’t have a future he had joined the military. As a matter of fact, he had feelings for her before she had seduced him those 8 long years ago. Then when she confessed her feelings for him their love affair began. They had been the best months of his life.
The final straw was when August found out about them. He really flipped out more than Jude expected. From then on, even though August still treated him like a friend, he felt August thought less of him because of his lower social status and that he wasn’t “right” for April. But to hear him say it was a killer. But couldn’t Jude find a way to be worthy? The way he found was to join the Navy for the 4 years April was in college.
Then THE letter came from April saying they weren’t a good fit . . . and his 4 years turned into 8. And now, he was back.
The year April was to go to college
1. Her parents were killed on one of their week end away trips.
2. Auggie assumed control of their parent’s assets and trust fund for the both of them.
3. He was good at managing the money but was so controlling over everything
4. He found out about Jude and the proverbial “shit hit the fan” with him telling her Jude wasn’t good enough for her and would never amount for anything.
5. Jude then told her he was going to do to make something of himself, which she knew was Auggies doing.
6. Then she finds out she’s pregnant with her daughter Maya.
*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*
April
1. Dark haired, hazel eyes, full figured
2. Lived in Bismarck, North Dakota along the Missouri River.
3. Has a daughter, Maya.
August
1. Freshman in high school when his sister was 11 years old.
2. Brought Jude home to play video games when his sister was 11.
3. As a freshman in high school he was the proverbial nerd with big glasses, scrawny build and more interested in cerebral activities than sports.
4. He and Jude were complete opposites.
Jude Mason
1. Dark blonde hair, light blue eyes,
2. August’s best friend. Jude was his complete opposites:
a. Came from a poor/dysfunctional family.
b. Strong, natural athlete but an outsider in school.
c. Smart, a little rough around the edges and nice.
3. The guys from the neighborhood he grew up with seemed to either flunk out of school or end up in jail.
4. Growing up school had been his sanctuary from his parents who hated each other and took it out on him.
5. He was an athlete in school but didn’t fit in with the jock crowd and he was smart but the nerds were afraid of him until he and August got together their freshman year.
6. Joined the Navy for 4 years, ended up being in for 8 and a SEAL.
Cyrus
1. Had been a SEAL with Jude.
2. He and Jude decided to start their own security firm.
3. From Chicago but they were planning to start the business in Bismarck.
April first met Jude when she was 11 and her older brother brought him home. At that time, she thought he was like all boys, boring and annoying. By 13 she was starting to notice boys. AT sixteen she was full on, head over heels in love with Jude. AT 18, her feelings for Jude were as strong as ever.
When her brother, August, was away at college for 4 years, Jude . would come over to their house and help with things that August had done. April and Jude became friends. Then one day IT happened.
When Jude left Bismarck, he had all intentions of coming back, being with April and having a family. But as they say . . . the best laid plans of mice and men . . . He had never gotten over April but when it was clear they didn’t have a future he had joined the military. As a matter of fact, he had feelings for her before she had seduced him those 8 long years ago. Then when she confessed her feelings for him their love affair began. They had been the best months of his life.
The final straw was when August found out about them. He really flipped out more than Jude expected. From then on, even though August still treated him like a friend, he felt August thought less of him because of his lower social status and that he wasn’t “right” for April. But to hear him say it was a killer. But couldn’t Jude find a way to be worthy? The way he found was to join the Navy for the 4 years April was in college.
Then THE letter came from April saying they weren’t a good fit . . . and his 4 years turned into 8. And now, he was back.
The year April was to go to college
1. Her parents were killed on one of their week end away trips.
2. Auggie assumed control of their parent’s assets and trust fund for the both of them.
3. He was good at managing the money but was so controlling over everything
4. He found out about Jude and the proverbial “shit hit the fan” with him telling her Jude wasn’t good enough for her and would never amount for anything.
5. Jude then told her he was going to do to make something of himself, which she knew was Auggies doing.
6. Then she finds out she’s pregnant with her daughter Maya.
*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*
April
1. Dark haired, hazel eyes, full figured
2. Lived in Bismarck, North Dakota along the Missouri River.
3. Has a daughter, Maya.
August
1. Freshman in high school when his sister was 11 years old.
2. Brought Jude home to play video games when his sister was 11.
3. As a freshman in high school he was the proverbial nerd with big glasses, scrawny build and more interested in cerebral activities than sports.
4. He and Jude were complete opposites.
Jude Mason
1. Dark blonde hair, light blue eyes,
2. August’s best friend. Jude was his complete opposites:
a. Came from a poor/dysfunctional family.
b. Strong, natural athlete but an outsider in school.
c. Smart, a little rough around the edges and nice.
3. The guys from the neighborhood he grew up with seemed to either flunk out of school or end up in jail.
4. Growing up school had been his sanctuary from his parents who hated each other and took it out on him.
5. He was an athlete in school but didn’t fit in with the jock crowd and he was smart but the nerds were afraid of him until he and August got together their freshman year.
6. Joined the Navy for 4 years, ended up being in for 8 and a SEAL.
Cyrus
1. Had been a SEAL with Jude.
2. He and Jude decided to start their own security firm.
3. From Chicago but they were planning to start the business in Bismarck.
September 4, 2020
This was a quick read that held my interest throughout. There was a lot going on as we get to know the characters. This is April and Jude's story but there are a lot of important secondary characters who add to the story and strengthen it. April's daughter and brother, her best friend Petal and Jude's best friend and business partner add more layers to the story as we get to know the characters and their needs a little at a time.
Jude had been April's brother's best friend throughout high school even though Jude came from the wrong side of the tracks. That ended eight years before when he decided to make something of himself and joined the military and ultimately became a SEAL. But April doesn't know much of anything as she finds out when Jude and April unexpectedly meet at the restaurant she was waitressing at when he came back to start his security consulting business with fellow SEAL, Cyrus. They do realize their feelings for each other still exist no matter what transpired during those years they were apart.
There were a lot of twists and turns, many of which were steamy. April would be strong one moment and weak the next. She had a major secret but didn't think he deserved to know. What happens when they find out the truth of what happened eight years ago, who put their own spin on it and the outcome and fallout? I loved how Maya, the young child, was wise beyond her years with some of her comments. There was nice closure and a happily ever after especially with the epilogue that takes place one year after the story ends. At the end of the book there was an excerpt of Friends to Lovers, the story with Cyrus and Petal center stage. I can't wait to read more.
Ms. Williams is an author whose books I look forward to reading. There are always complications and a lot of between the sheet moments, sometimes which are too hot for me to handle and outside of my comfort zone, but I always return for more.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Jude had been April's brother's best friend throughout high school even though Jude came from the wrong side of the tracks. That ended eight years before when he decided to make something of himself and joined the military and ultimately became a SEAL. But April doesn't know much of anything as she finds out when Jude and April unexpectedly meet at the restaurant she was waitressing at when he came back to start his security consulting business with fellow SEAL, Cyrus. They do realize their feelings for each other still exist no matter what transpired during those years they were apart.
There were a lot of twists and turns, many of which were steamy. April would be strong one moment and weak the next. She had a major secret but didn't think he deserved to know. What happens when they find out the truth of what happened eight years ago, who put their own spin on it and the outcome and fallout? I loved how Maya, the young child, was wise beyond her years with some of her comments. There was nice closure and a happily ever after especially with the epilogue that takes place one year after the story ends. At the end of the book there was an excerpt of Friends to Lovers, the story with Cyrus and Petal center stage. I can't wait to read more.
Ms. Williams is an author whose books I look forward to reading. There are always complications and a lot of between the sheet moments, sometimes which are too hot for me to handle and outside of my comfort zone, but I always return for more.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
September 9, 2020
I received this book with the understanding that I could leave a voluntary and honest review.
In this book we meet April Davidsons and Jude Mason. Eight years ago April knew that he brother's best friend Jude was planning on coming over to see him when he came home for a visit from college. She however has no plans on telling him that her brother isn't actually coming until he comes to the house. At that point she plans on putting her plan in action. See she has been in love with Jude for a long time and she plans on that being the night she gives him everything. The thing is she didn't know that summer would change everything for her. Now eight years later she is under he brother's thumb she has a little girl she adores and her father just came back into town and she doesn't know what to do about that. After all if he couldn't acknowledge them when she told him she was pregnant what is she supposed to do about it now? Jude knew he would see the one woman he could never get out of his head when he moved back to Bismarck. He just didn't know he would still feel so betrayed. He thought they had plans until he received her letter ripping him apart. She may not want or love him but he has never gotten over her. Will these two find a way to the HEA they both want with the other or will the past make that impossible?
This is another amazing hit by this author. It does have its ups and downs I really want to tell you about. However I don't want to ruin the story for any other readers. I will say this book will have you hooked from the first word to the very end. I would highly recommend it to anyone and everyone.
In this book we meet April Davidsons and Jude Mason. Eight years ago April knew that he brother's best friend Jude was planning on coming over to see him when he came home for a visit from college. She however has no plans on telling him that her brother isn't actually coming until he comes to the house. At that point she plans on putting her plan in action. See she has been in love with Jude for a long time and she plans on that being the night she gives him everything. The thing is she didn't know that summer would change everything for her. Now eight years later she is under he brother's thumb she has a little girl she adores and her father just came back into town and she doesn't know what to do about that. After all if he couldn't acknowledge them when she told him she was pregnant what is she supposed to do about it now? Jude knew he would see the one woman he could never get out of his head when he moved back to Bismarck. He just didn't know he would still feel so betrayed. He thought they had plans until he received her letter ripping him apart. She may not want or love him but he has never gotten over her. Will these two find a way to the HEA they both want with the other or will the past make that impossible?
This is another amazing hit by this author. It does have its ups and downs I really want to tell you about. However I don't want to ruin the story for any other readers. I will say this book will have you hooked from the first word to the very end. I would highly recommend it to anyone and everyone.
September 4, 2020
This book is a great addition to the Heart of Hope collection from Ajme Williams. The story line is not one that I've seen in other books that I've read recently.
As always Ajme has provided readers with a well written book; plenty of details, plenty of story, plenty of sex, plenty of characters, plenty of upset, plenty of everything to keep every reader reading to the last page.
The two main characters have great growth and progression through the story. They are both really well drawn for the reader through the authors descriptive writing which provides their steamy chemistry that rises from the pages. Whilst the secondary cast are essential they more one dimensional.
This book threw up a few Americanisms for me that I found weird such as using a microwave to make a cup of tea and not a kettle and a 7 year old going to day camp and not school!!!
I loved this book, as I have all of Ajme's books, and totally recommend that you add it to your Kindle library xx
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
As always Ajme has provided readers with a well written book; plenty of details, plenty of story, plenty of sex, plenty of characters, plenty of upset, plenty of everything to keep every reader reading to the last page.
The two main characters have great growth and progression through the story. They are both really well drawn for the reader through the authors descriptive writing which provides their steamy chemistry that rises from the pages. Whilst the secondary cast are essential they more one dimensional.
This book threw up a few Americanisms for me that I found weird such as using a microwave to make a cup of tea and not a kettle and a 7 year old going to day camp and not school!!!
I loved this book, as I have all of Ajme's books, and totally recommend that you add it to your Kindle library xx
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
September 4, 2020
This is fresh take on 2nd chance at love for Jude and April. August is April’s older brother whose best friend is Jude. April falls for Jude and ends up getting him to take her virginity at 18 and they start a secret relationship until August finds out about it. Both August and April are left to deal with losing their parents. August confronts Jude letting him know he is not good enough for his sister so Jude leaves to go in the military with plans to return and the unthinkable occurs and both April and Jude are heartbroken for it. Eight years later Jude returns having retired as a Seal and starts his own business and is extremely happy to see April and unsure why she is working as a waitress. April is shocked and hurt when she sees Jude and their paths keep crossing so they pick up where they left off with April hiding one very important secret. How everyone deals with the fall out of that secret is a twist with deceit and hurt with the hope love wins! I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
September 6, 2020
Eight Long Years by Ajme Williams is a second chance/secret baby/Brothers Bestfriend romance story of Jude and April..Jude is a hot,smart and gorgeous from the wrong side of the track who fell in love with his besfriend little sister and left to join to be a seal but make a promise to the girl he love he going to come back for her and to prove to his bestfriend that his good enough for his sister but unbeknowst to him he left not only the girl he love but also their unborn baby..April is a single mom,sweet and curvy,she became a teen mother when her boyfriend left to join the seal and didnt know that he got her pregnant after all the letters and email she sent to him and without any answer and then after eight long years he came back as if nothing happend and we found out the one family she had is the one betrayed us..a capptivating,emotional,steamy filled with drama,passion,romance and betrayal that you will love and enjoy! well done!
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
September 8, 2020
An interesting premise for a second chance romance. Jude and April were in a secret relationship until her brother, his best friend, August finds out. What August does to these two with a baby in mind is somewhat unforgivable. At least something that would take more than a week to firgive.
The story does flow well and character development is well done. Jude is a boy who became a man in the military and knows what he wants - April. April takes a little getting to like. A teenage mom who has been under her brothers thumb and wants to get free but keeps going back and forth. Even after she discovers what he did, she can't get angry with him.
There are some great secondary characters - Petal April's bff, Cyrus, Judge's business partner and Maya the secret baby. August is the one you won't enjoy and I was surprised at how easily everyone just reasoned away what he did to April and Jude.
There is your steamy parts, HEA, and a lot of bumpy road to get to the HEA.
This is an honest voluntary review
The story does flow well and character development is well done. Jude is a boy who became a man in the military and knows what he wants - April. April takes a little getting to like. A teenage mom who has been under her brothers thumb and wants to get free but keeps going back and forth. Even after she discovers what he did, she can't get angry with him.
There are some great secondary characters - Petal April's bff, Cyrus, Judge's business partner and Maya the secret baby. August is the one you won't enjoy and I was surprised at how easily everyone just reasoned away what he did to April and Jude.
There is your steamy parts, HEA, and a lot of bumpy road to get to the HEA.
This is an honest voluntary review
September 2, 2020
Eight Long Years By Ajme Williams
Jude and August were complete opposites Jude came from a poor dysfunctional family and he was athletic,smart, strong whereas August came from a rich loving family and he was scrawny a nerd but bullied in school. They became friends when Jude stepped in when he was being bullied also when they were paired up in science class. Everything seemed great for years until August discovers Jude has been sleeping with his younger sister April. August steps in and changes the life of everyone.Jude learns fast that August isn't the friend he claimed to be..... Fast forward eight years later when Jude returns home to discover his ex-girlfriend was hiding a big secret. There journey has betrayal,secrets, heartache, hurt,anger,pain, misunderstanding,joy, happiness, forgiveness, passion and love.
4.5 ⭐⭐⭐⭐
I received an ARC from the author through Booksprout for my honest review.
Jude and August were complete opposites Jude came from a poor dysfunctional family and he was athletic,smart, strong whereas August came from a rich loving family and he was scrawny a nerd but bullied in school. They became friends when Jude stepped in when he was being bullied also when they were paired up in science class. Everything seemed great for years until August discovers Jude has been sleeping with his younger sister April. August steps in and changes the life of everyone.Jude learns fast that August isn't the friend he claimed to be..... Fast forward eight years later when Jude returns home to discover his ex-girlfriend was hiding a big secret. There journey has betrayal,secrets, heartache, hurt,anger,pain, misunderstanding,joy, happiness, forgiveness, passion and love.
4.5 ⭐⭐⭐⭐
I received an ARC from the author through Booksprout for my honest review.
September 5, 2020
April is the younger sister to August, from a rich family and as she hits her teens has a crush on her brothers best friend, Jude. Jude is from a dysfunctional poor family , athletic and smart, but doesn't seek attention and as freshmen, befriends August from a bully. When April turns eighteen, she successfully seduces Jude. Jude leaves Bismark to make his way in the world so he can come back and makes their dreams come true. After eight years, Jude returns with his best friend. Cyrus, a fellow Navy seal. They intend to open a security company, but Jude's hoping to reconnect with April. He wants to know what went wrong eight years ago. Secrets, death, jealousy, heartbreak, lies and an unknown daughter all play a part of the roadblocks facing the two. Can dreams come true. Read this page turner, fast moving story to find out what happens to April and Jude
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
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September 25, 2020This is book 5 in the Heart of Hope series and another brilliant book, if you haven't read books 1-4 you can buy them singularly or in a box set, they are all heart-warming and sexy, like all Ajme's books they are very well written and draw you into the story from page one and keeps you turning the pages till the end. I highly recommend them.
eight years ago April and Jude were in love but her brother said he wasn't good enough for her so they made plans and he joined the military, while he was gone he received a letter from her saying it was over, which totally broke him, at the same time she found out she was pregnant and wrote to tell him and didn't get any reply so thought he didn't care.
Eight years on he is back and he still loves and wants April, can they find out the truth, can they make it together as a family or will someone still stand in their way.
I loved this book and cant wait for Cyrus and Petal's story.
eight years ago April and Jude were in love but her brother said he wasn't good enough for her so they made plans and he joined the military, while he was gone he received a letter from her saying it was over, which totally broke him, at the same time she found out she was pregnant and wrote to tell him and didn't get any reply so thought he didn't care.
Eight years on he is back and he still loves and wants April, can they find out the truth, can they make it together as a family or will someone still stand in their way.
I loved this book and cant wait for Cyrus and Petal's story.
June 28, 2021
April and Jude finally got the happy ending they've wanted. April has always loved Jude, but he was her older brother's best friend. Determined to get rid of her v-card before going to college, April seduces Jude. They end up hiding their relationship until August finds out. When April and August's parents pass away, their world is upended and August becomes controlling, dictating how to April should live her life and raise her daughter Maya. Eight years later, Jude returns to Bismarck. A former SEAL, Jude and his friend Cyrus open a security consulting firm. When Jude and April meet up again, there's lots of animosity based on assumptions of each other. As Jude learns about what happened when he left eight years ago, he and April realize just how much control August exerted over April. They finally got their HEA after eight long years.
I received an advance copy of this book at my request and voluntarily left this review.
I received an advance copy of this book at my request and voluntarily left this review.
September 4, 2020
I really liked reading Eight Long Years by Ajme Williams because it was such a fantastic and heart swooning book about April and Jude. April and Jude were in love when she was 18. He was a little bit older than her and her brother's best friend at the time. Jude had left to go into the military. But something happened and things got complicated and there were some misunderstandings between April and Jude. They saw each other again and the feelings were still there, but so were the misunderstandings. They were still hot and steamy with each other, but there were other factors in this relationship that complicated matters between them. I loved reading this book and I highly recommend reading it. It definitely gave me all the feels.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
September 5, 2020
This story is the perfect continuation of the heart of hope series. Jude and April are two characters that entice you to learn about them from the start. Jude is best friends with April's older brother but begins to have feelings for her when she's sixteen. April can't find someone as handsome as Jude. When Jude leaves to join the military he promises April to come back for her after four years, but that doesn't happen. Eight years after he left town Jude returns and comes across April. Neither of them can believe that they're looking at the other. April is at war with herself, her head is telling her to believe something while her heart is saying something else. Jude believes April wouldn't hide something from him, but he's wrong. Will April and Jude come out together or will everything push them apart? How will Jude be able to forgive April after what she kept from him for 8 years?
September 5, 2020
It’s been Eight Long Years and you’d think they would have forgotten but the chemistry is still there. April’s first love was her brothers best friend. It didn’t start out like that though. When you’re 11 you think most boys are annoying. When she started noticing that boys might not be that bad Jude drew her eye. He eventually captivated all of her. When he joins the SEAL’s the last thing he expects is a “Dear John” letter.
Eight years later they bump into each other again. April is torn, she still has feelings but she also has a huge secret. I love how the characters meshed together and also loved the supporting cast. Sometimes the side characters were given their own room to shine.
This is book 5 in the series but can be enjoyed as a stand alone.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Eight years later they bump into each other again. April is torn, she still has feelings but she also has a huge secret. I love how the characters meshed together and also loved the supporting cast. Sometimes the side characters were given their own room to shine.
This is book 5 in the series but can be enjoyed as a stand alone.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
September 9, 2020
I have read and enjoyed this story. It was exciting and romantic. I was captivated and emotionally involved with the characters. Jude and April had been friends through her brother August. But something happened eight years ago that kept them apart. Jude went on to become a Navy Seal. People told him he was a nobody and needed to make something of himself. Coming back to his hometown after 8 years, Jude was excited to see April but there was the issue of her rejection letter she wrote him. He was determined to find out if she still cared for him. His promise was to come back for her. He didn't realize she had a secret. This is a great romance story added to the Heart of Hope series! I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review. *** I voluntarily read a Review Copy of this book. All opinions stated are solely my own and no one else’s. ***
September 14, 2020
Beautiful love story with a touch of drama.
I loved this second chance love story which because of April's brother & Jude's best friend stopped it happening the first time. When Jude came back from his 8 tears as a Navy SEAL the last person he expected to see was April & it was not a happy meeting as each of them thought the other had left them which wasn't true. When they finally started talking & he found out about Maya he was livid that she hadn't told him but then August's evil doings came to light which instead of bringing them together almost stopped as any chance of them being a family & getting their happy ever after. I'm so glad April stood up for herself against August & I can't wait to read the next book with him & Petal.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I loved this second chance love story which because of April's brother & Jude's best friend stopped it happening the first time. When Jude came back from his 8 tears as a Navy SEAL the last person he expected to see was April & it was not a happy meeting as each of them thought the other had left them which wasn't true. When they finally started talking & he found out about Maya he was livid that she hadn't told him but then August's evil doings came to light which instead of bringing them together almost stopped as any chance of them being a family & getting their happy ever after. I'm so glad April stood up for herself against August & I can't wait to read the next book with him & Petal.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
September 3, 2020
Jude and August were friends even though they were polar opposites. Jude liked being at August home since his home life was lacking and he loved the parents and sister April. April was attracted to Jude and the older she got she wanted him for herself. They started an affair and when August finds out he goes ballistic saying Jude is not good enough for April. Jude leaves to make something of himself to prove otherwise but since the death of their parents August begins to control April's life. Fast forward, Judecreturns home to find April again, only to discover lies and how devious August was secrets that were kept for eight years. Ajme weaves her story telling again in this great story.
September 4, 2020
This story is about a second chance. It was beautiful. April is in love with her brother best friend since she was 14 years old. April is smart,beautiful, sweet and loving. In the years they been apart she has been through alot. Jude is also has feelings for April but doesn't want to mess up his relationship with her brother. Jude is different, sexy, smart,and sweet. Jude been through some things but trying to make it right. When April have the house to herself for a weekend she decides to seduce Jude. What will happen next?
The writing was done beautifully and flows throughout the book. Her writing was raw and emotions were high. Amazing work again Ajme Williams!
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
The writing was done beautifully and flows throughout the book. Her writing was raw and emotions were high. Amazing work again Ajme Williams!
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
September 9, 2020
A sweet second chance
April has loved Jude forever, she even seduced him for her first time. They swore to be together forever, even when he went into the service to make something of himself for her. When she sent him a letter telling him she was pregnant, she heard nothing back from him. Now he’s back in town. Why? And why doesn’t he ever ask about their child, like she never existed?
Jude wanted nothing more than to be worthy of April. He wanted forever with her. When he got the letter from her telling him she was done with him it devastated him. But he did make something of himself and now he’s back to show her what she let go. But why is she working in the local diner? What’s going on?
April has loved Jude forever, she even seduced him for her first time. They swore to be together forever, even when he went into the service to make something of himself for her. When she sent him a letter telling him she was pregnant, she heard nothing back from him. Now he’s back in town. Why? And why doesn’t he ever ask about their child, like she never existed?
Jude wanted nothing more than to be worthy of April. He wanted forever with her. When he got the letter from her telling him she was done with him it devastated him. But he did make something of himself and now he’s back to show her what she let go. But why is she working in the local diner? What’s going on?
September 4, 2020
Claiming A Lost Family -
Wow! Reading this book was like nothing I had ever experienced before. An author’s talent is shown, when the reader feels like they actually part of the story. At times I just want to shout ‘ARE YOU F**KING SERIOUS?’. I felt like I went through a different emotion every few pages I turned, but I was still rooting for all of them (including August) to come together as a family. If you have never read one of Ajme’s books, I recommend you start now, as they are wonderful works of realistic fiction. I am really looking forward to reading the next book Ajme publishes.
I received an ARC of this book from Booksprout and I am voluntarily leaving a review.
Wow! Reading this book was like nothing I had ever experienced before. An author’s talent is shown, when the reader feels like they actually part of the story. At times I just want to shout ‘ARE YOU F**KING SERIOUS?’. I felt like I went through a different emotion every few pages I turned, but I was still rooting for all of them (including August) to come together as a family. If you have never read one of Ajme’s books, I recommend you start now, as they are wonderful works of realistic fiction. I am really looking forward to reading the next book Ajme publishes.
I received an ARC of this book from Booksprout and I am voluntarily leaving a review.
September 4, 2020
Ajme Williams has given us another wonderful story full of misunderstandings, angst and love. Her characters are well rounded and well thought out. In Eight Long Years we meet April and her brother August. August has been there for April after their parents died and through her pregnancy with Maya. Unfortunately for April, August, did some horrible things that got in her way with her romance with Jude and it took eight years for her to find out about it. Will she side with her brother against Jude or will she go with the love of her life and finally find love with Jude after eight long years.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
September 5, 2020
I really want to enjoy reading the book. The story is about a second chance and secret baby which both are my favorite tropes. But I am frustrated by April's naivete about her brother. I am sorry but she forgives him so easily. Of course, I know that he is her brother but what he did to her and Jude was so HUGE! And Jude, he is a good guy who deserve to be loved and April keeps ruining him by her false decisions (that is why I think she is naivete too.) And since naivete seems to be one of April's personalities so I feel frustrated through the end of the book which is why I give the book 4 stars.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
April 21, 2021
This was just . . . it was so bad.
The writing, especially the dialogue, was juvenile and the book as a whole could have used a better editor.
Also, as a military spouse myself, the constant reminder that Jude was a Navy SEAL felt forced and trite. This plot point was never used to explain any lingering effects from his time in service, but rather as a way to make him seem “worthy” and masculine. Like, huh? There is so much more to being a good man.
Further to that, toward the end it seemed each chapter was going to be the last, only to turn a page and find it drag on.
I really wanted to love this, but I really didn’t and would not recommend it.
The writing, especially the dialogue, was juvenile and the book as a whole could have used a better editor.
Also, as a military spouse myself, the constant reminder that Jude was a Navy SEAL felt forced and trite. This plot point was never used to explain any lingering effects from his time in service, but rather as a way to make him seem “worthy” and masculine. Like, huh? There is so much more to being a good man.
Further to that, toward the end it seemed each chapter was going to be the last, only to turn a page and find it drag on.
I really wanted to love this, but I really didn’t and would not recommend it.
September 10, 2021
Loved!
Great novel!
A great romance without the wimpy, oh so sweet!
I liked that it was all over one individual worry about himself that caused the conflict for the Hero and Heroine!
Yet, fear ruled him, and caused serious issues overcome by the main characters!
And while the Heroine seems to come across as brow beaten and unwilling to change in the beginning, she realizes the need and makes changes well before the Hero completely enters the novel, again.
Now you need to read about these two individuals that belong together, and all the issues, some they simply were unaware of, that they overcome!
Cannot wait for the next in the series!
Loved it!
Karen
Great novel!
A great romance without the wimpy, oh so sweet!
I liked that it was all over one individual worry about himself that caused the conflict for the Hero and Heroine!
Yet, fear ruled him, and caused serious issues overcome by the main characters!
And while the Heroine seems to come across as brow beaten and unwilling to change in the beginning, she realizes the need and makes changes well before the Hero completely enters the novel, again.
Now you need to read about these two individuals that belong together, and all the issues, some they simply were unaware of, that they overcome!
Cannot wait for the next in the series!
Loved it!
Karen
October 4, 2023
Jude came from a dysfunctional family and befriending August brought him as close to a family that he could have. He and April's brother were friends but April was drawn to Jude. When she finally got up the nerve to seduce him, he tried to wave her off but in the end passion won out. When August found out he came between them by manipulating April. It has been eight years and now Jude is back and ready to start life outside of the military. Seeing April opened old wounds considering he never got over her. Will they get a chance to rekindle their love for a second chance at happiness?
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
September 3, 2020
Another great read by Ms. Williams. This is a story of Jude and April that is absolutely going to have you on an emotional roller coaster. This is a book that will have you turning the pages to find out how if they can work out their differences and rekindle their relationship. This book is a hot steamy book that is full of secrets, heartache, deceit, anger, misunderstanding, passion, love, and forgiveness.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
September 4, 2020
This may be a trope that has been used before but Eight Long Years by Ajme Williams has a fresh feel to it. Jude and April were in love when he joined the Navy and she promised to wait for him. Tragic circumstances and a huge misunderstanding convinced April to break up with Jude. He was devasted but so was she. Once he was discharged, he was determined to find out the real reason for the breakup. Ajme is an excellent author and never disappoints. This book is raw, angsty, and tingly with excitement.
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