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Poison & Wine
It’s funny how differently we view life when we’re young.
Everything feels possible- limitless.
If only things could stay that way forever.
Then maybe life wouldn’t be so complicated.
Maybe Jace would still be the same ten-year-old boy I fell in love with.
Maybe I’d still be that same girl too.
The girl who believed that there wasn’t anything we couldn’t overcome.
But I’m not that girl anymore.
Time has beaten me down, broken me, taken everything from me.
And it’s taken even more from Jace.
I naively believed that I could save him¬…
From his dad. From his anger. From his addiction.
And I nearly died trying.
It’s taken me four years to rebuild my life.
To piece my shattered heart back together.
But it all goes up in flames the moment I find myself face to face with the one person I never thought I’d see again.
He’s determined to prove he’s changed.
I’m terrified to let him try.
Because no matter how sweet it tastes, with Jace Matthews you never truly know if what you’re drinking is poison or wine, until it’s already too late.
Poison & Wine is a complete standalone, second chance romance.
Everything feels possible- limitless.
If only things could stay that way forever.
Then maybe life wouldn’t be so complicated.
Maybe Jace would still be the same ten-year-old boy I fell in love with.
Maybe I’d still be that same girl too.
The girl who believed that there wasn’t anything we couldn’t overcome.
But I’m not that girl anymore.
Time has beaten me down, broken me, taken everything from me.
And it’s taken even more from Jace.
I naively believed that I could save him¬…
From his dad. From his anger. From his addiction.
And I nearly died trying.
It’s taken me four years to rebuild my life.
To piece my shattered heart back together.
But it all goes up in flames the moment I find myself face to face with the one person I never thought I’d see again.
He’s determined to prove he’s changed.
I’m terrified to let him try.
Because no matter how sweet it tastes, with Jace Matthews you never truly know if what you’re drinking is poison or wine, until it’s already too late.
Poison & Wine is a complete standalone, second chance romance.
364 pages, Paperback
Published December 11, 2020
158 people are currently reading
351 people want to read
About the author
Melissa Toppen
55 books1,815 followersMelissa Toppen is a USA Today Bestselling Author who specializes in New Adult and Contemporary Romance. She is a lover of books and enjoys nothing more than losing herself in a good novel. She has a soft spot for romance and focuses her writing in that direction; writing what she loves to read.
For more information on Melissa and her books, visit www.melissatoppen.com
For more information on Melissa and her books, visit www.melissatoppen.com
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 100 reviews
February 20, 2021
"Addiction isn’t something you’re just cured of. It’s something you have to work for every single second of every day."
Poison and Wine is a moving story about addiction and second chances. It's a pretty straight forward book---no shocking revelations or crazy twists---about what a person must go through to overcome the demons that cause them to relapse time and time again.
"Sobriety is a choice. And today, I choose to live my life of sound mind and body. I choose to kiss the girl I love and feel the softness of her lips rather than the numbness of the drugs. I choose to watch my daughter with clear vision and a full heart. I choose this life."
I enjoyed this book, but I didn't feel as much for the characters as I would have liked. We see some of their past through flashbacks, but those scenes felt more like a glimpse at Jace's (the hero) downward spiral and less about his relationship with Oakley (the heroine.) I think a few more flashback scenes to them falling in love and just being happy together would have made me feel more for them in the present, when Oakley is fighting her feelings for Jace and Jace is fighting to stay clean.
“Never you. I would never give up on you. You are the only reason that this is still beating.” I lift her hand and flatten it against my chest where I know she can feel the thud of my heart against my ribs. “You own this, Oakley. You own me. You always have.”
This was my first read by this author, and it definitely won't be my last.
3.5-4 🌟
(TW: drug use/abuse)
Poison and Wine is a moving story about addiction and second chances. It's a pretty straight forward book---no shocking revelations or crazy twists---about what a person must go through to overcome the demons that cause them to relapse time and time again.
"Sobriety is a choice. And today, I choose to live my life of sound mind and body. I choose to kiss the girl I love and feel the softness of her lips rather than the numbness of the drugs. I choose to watch my daughter with clear vision and a full heart. I choose this life."
I enjoyed this book, but I didn't feel as much for the characters as I would have liked. We see some of their past through flashbacks, but those scenes felt more like a glimpse at Jace's (the hero) downward spiral and less about his relationship with Oakley (the heroine.) I think a few more flashback scenes to them falling in love and just being happy together would have made me feel more for them in the present, when Oakley is fighting her feelings for Jace and Jace is fighting to stay clean.
“Never you. I would never give up on you. You are the only reason that this is still beating.” I lift her hand and flatten it against my chest where I know she can feel the thud of my heart against my ribs. “You own this, Oakley. You own me. You always have.”
This was my first read by this author, and it definitely won't be my last.
3.5-4 🌟
(TW: drug use/abuse)
February 9, 2021
3.5-4 ⭐'s
This is a story of childhood sweethearts dealing with addiction. It's not necessarily my favorite plot but I was hoping for some good ol' angst to be involved.
Jace and Oakley grow up together and that friendship involves into a romance. Jace's home life is pretty awful so he spends a lot of time in Oakley's tree house. Their senior year, Jace starts changing and soon Oakley finds out he's taking pills and worse.
He keeps promising to quit but continues behind her back and one night while high, he causes a wreck and he takes off. Oakley doesn't hear from him for four years.
Jace is in rehab for the third time and this time he's doing everything for it to stick. He asks Oakley to come so he can apologize to her and it draws her right back in.
She has to be smart this time and she keeps him accountable, however, her heart is totally soft for him so when he needs help, she is there for him. This causes people in her life to be upset.
Oakley has also been keeping something from Jace and while it could've been much more angsty, it was handled rather well.
There are some flashbacks to the past...they were okay. I think it would have been great to have some flashbacks to what was going on with Jace in their four years apart.
There was also some drama towards the end. It's hard to believe that one of the issues was they never exchanged phone numbers. However, the epilogue was great and I loved the surprise.
This is a story of childhood sweethearts dealing with addiction. It's not necessarily my favorite plot but I was hoping for some good ol' angst to be involved.
Jace and Oakley grow up together and that friendship involves into a romance. Jace's home life is pretty awful so he spends a lot of time in Oakley's tree house. Their senior year, Jace starts changing and soon Oakley finds out he's taking pills and worse.
He keeps promising to quit but continues behind her back and one night while high, he causes a wreck and he takes off. Oakley doesn't hear from him for four years.
Jace is in rehab for the third time and this time he's doing everything for it to stick. He asks Oakley to come so he can apologize to her and it draws her right back in.
She has to be smart this time and she keeps him accountable, however, her heart is totally soft for him so when he needs help, she is there for him. This causes people in her life to be upset.
Oakley has also been keeping something from Jace and while it could've been much more angsty, it was handled rather well.
There are some flashbacks to the past...they were okay. I think it would have been great to have some flashbacks to what was going on with Jace in their four years apart.
There was also some drama towards the end. It's hard to believe that one of the issues was they never exchanged phone numbers. However, the epilogue was great and I loved the surprise.
January 16, 2021
4.5 Stars
Well, just read this in 1 sitting! I couldn't put it down. Maybe because this story sits close to my heart living with someone who battles addiction everyday of their lives.
This story gives me hope that this disease can be overcome. I know, I know that it's just a story but the author nailed this...the thoughts that went through Oakley loving someone who chose drugs over her...to Jace who battled every day between the love he had for Oakley to the love he had for that high.
Emotional...
Well, just read this in 1 sitting! I couldn't put it down. Maybe because this story sits close to my heart living with someone who battles addiction everyday of their lives.
This story gives me hope that this disease can be overcome. I know, I know that it's just a story but the author nailed this...the thoughts that went through Oakley loving someone who chose drugs over her...to Jace who battled every day between the love he had for Oakley to the love he had for that high.
Emotional...
November 23, 2020
Poison & Wine by Melissa Toppen had me on edge from start till finish. It grabbed my heart and gave it a twist, then a squeeze, before allowing it to burst free! I was taken on an emotional journey, hoping for love to win out, but totally understanding the ramifications of the choices and the risk that was involved.
Jace and Oakley have a beautiful love story with tragic moments that stole my breath away. Their struggles are real, their strength—incredible. Oakley wanted nothing more than to save Jace from his demons, but sometimes love just isn’t enough. Sometimes you have to walk away. Sometimes the only thing left for you to do is the hardest thing of all. Watching someone fall to their lowest of lows and praying for the day they find the strength to rise up and live again was Oakley's truth. There was nothing she wanted more, but nothing she feared more. She never fell out of love, she did what she had to do, so when those blue eyes meet hers again years later, time seems to stand still and she is faced with some tough decisions.
Loving an addict is the hardest love of all. Watching the one you love throw everything away and leave you in a crumbled, broken version of yourself is the greatest pain of all. Protecting yourself and learning to trust again—is it possible? I actually loved how strong of a heroine Oakley is. At a very young age, she matures and becomes a fierce, protective mama bear who puts her child first and knows when it is time to walk away.
Poison & Wine is a must-read. A stand-alone, second chance romance that will tear at your heartstrings every step of the way. The author gives us dual POV as well as flashback chapters, which build the reader’s relationship to the couple and helps to endear them to our hearts. The dual POV gives us the important emotional element of each character. It lets us see their thoughts, their fears, their dreams. I highly recommend you pick up Poison & Wine today.
Jace and Oakley have a beautiful love story with tragic moments that stole my breath away. Their struggles are real, their strength—incredible. Oakley wanted nothing more than to save Jace from his demons, but sometimes love just isn’t enough. Sometimes you have to walk away. Sometimes the only thing left for you to do is the hardest thing of all. Watching someone fall to their lowest of lows and praying for the day they find the strength to rise up and live again was Oakley's truth. There was nothing she wanted more, but nothing she feared more. She never fell out of love, she did what she had to do, so when those blue eyes meet hers again years later, time seems to stand still and she is faced with some tough decisions.
Loving an addict is the hardest love of all. Watching the one you love throw everything away and leave you in a crumbled, broken version of yourself is the greatest pain of all. Protecting yourself and learning to trust again—is it possible? I actually loved how strong of a heroine Oakley is. At a very young age, she matures and becomes a fierce, protective mama bear who puts her child first and knows when it is time to walk away.
Poison & Wine is a must-read. A stand-alone, second chance romance that will tear at your heartstrings every step of the way. The author gives us dual POV as well as flashback chapters, which build the reader’s relationship to the couple and helps to endear them to our hearts. The dual POV gives us the important emotional element of each character. It lets us see their thoughts, their fears, their dreams. I highly recommend you pick up Poison & Wine today.
August 20, 2022
I have been wanting to read a book with this EXACT plot for probably years and was never able to find one. I actually had no memory of downloading this on my audible so I went into it completely blind. And I only made it past the first chapter before I was hooked.
The writing is super sharp and the characters likeable. Even Jace who obviously had his issues. Super great book and an easy 5 star rating.
My only complaint is that the girl narrator on audible did something weird with the voice of Ellie. But that is minor compared to how freaking good this book is.
The writing is super sharp and the characters likeable. Even Jace who obviously had his issues. Super great book and an easy 5 star rating.
My only complaint is that the girl narrator on audible did something weird with the voice of Ellie. But that is minor compared to how freaking good this book is.
December 12, 2020
I’ve read books like this before. I guess I want to see that there can be a happy ending. What I missed here is their love connection. I didn’t see the whole crazy in love here. it was in pass chapters that I would see this but basically just all was about him and his vices.
I did read this all the way thru. I haven’t been able to do that in a long time.
I did read this all the way thru. I haven’t been able to do that in a long time.
July 7, 2023
I really enjoyed Jace and Oakley’s story!! It was a messy and raw and gritty tale of first love, first heartbreak and overcoming addictions. Those are the hardest to read.
Jace and Oak grew up as best friends since they were young. They both had a messed up childhood so they only had each other to rely on. But it wasn’t enough for young Jace. He turned to drugs that eventually led him down a very dark road.
Which led to a very twisty, windy and emotional rollercoaster for Oak. She loved him but sometimes, love doesn’t conquer all….
I enjoyed all the past chapters that wove into the present, to get a better sense of their friendship/love. Lots of surprises and lots of emotional whiplash for these two but I was happy with how it all eventually turned out for them. Jace was a beautiful, complex soul who had a lot of flaws, but he took accountability and turned his life around for Oakley. It wasn’t all sunshine and roses, but he owned up to his shit and realized the most important thing in his life was about to close the door on them forever and he made a conscious choice to make something of his life. Melissa did a great job showing the effects of drug/alcohol addiction. It’s downright brutal and dangerous. But she did a great job at showing redemption as well. Jace was a swoony hero!
Oakley was an amazing soul. I loved how she was always there for Jace as kids/teenagers. However, as an adult, she stood her ground when it was time to give him an ultimatum and not let him walk all over her anymore. She was done cleaning up his mess. I was proud of her and how she handled certain situations. I love these non-doormat type heroines.
All in all, I enjoyed their story, as messy as it was. It was true to real life and I appreciated that.
Jace and Oak grew up as best friends since they were young. They both had a messed up childhood so they only had each other to rely on. But it wasn’t enough for young Jace. He turned to drugs that eventually led him down a very dark road.
Which led to a very twisty, windy and emotional rollercoaster for Oak. She loved him but sometimes, love doesn’t conquer all….
I enjoyed all the past chapters that wove into the present, to get a better sense of their friendship/love. Lots of surprises and lots of emotional whiplash for these two but I was happy with how it all eventually turned out for them. Jace was a beautiful, complex soul who had a lot of flaws, but he took accountability and turned his life around for Oakley. It wasn’t all sunshine and roses, but he owned up to his shit and realized the most important thing in his life was about to close the door on them forever and he made a conscious choice to make something of his life. Melissa did a great job showing the effects of drug/alcohol addiction. It’s downright brutal and dangerous. But she did a great job at showing redemption as well. Jace was a swoony hero!
Oakley was an amazing soul. I loved how she was always there for Jace as kids/teenagers. However, as an adult, she stood her ground when it was time to give him an ultimatum and not let him walk all over her anymore. She was done cleaning up his mess. I was proud of her and how she handled certain situations. I love these non-doormat type heroines.
All in all, I enjoyed their story, as messy as it was. It was true to real life and I appreciated that.
November 16, 2020
Addiction is a difficult subject to write about but I felt the mistrust and the hurt in this story, it really hit me hard. The topic is really well written and made me see both sides; from the person dealing with the addict and one trying to recover from the addiction. It’s a very tough thing to know how to deal with and this story brought it all out into the open really well. I was torn though between feeling should I trust, should she trust, I do want to... oh, the dilemma.
Jace and Oakley had been in love since they were kids. Neither of the parents were worth the title and these two so desperately wanted to get out of their town and get their HEA. Life threw so much at them; his addiction was the biggest test and what ultimately broke them. Four years and a good try at rehab had Jace trying so hard to fight his demons and make amends. The feeling that Oakley got when she worried about him and his possible relapse was exactly as I felt reading her feelings. What a hard decision.
The story is a real gut-wrencher and definitely worth a read. It’s hard to believe how people survive this lifestyle.
Jace and Oakley had been in love since they were kids. Neither of the parents were worth the title and these two so desperately wanted to get out of their town and get their HEA. Life threw so much at them; his addiction was the biggest test and what ultimately broke them. Four years and a good try at rehab had Jace trying so hard to fight his demons and make amends. The feeling that Oakley got when she worried about him and his possible relapse was exactly as I felt reading her feelings. What a hard decision.
The story is a real gut-wrencher and definitely worth a read. It’s hard to believe how people survive this lifestyle.
December 14, 2021
3.5 Stars
*spoilers below*
This was a decent and well-written story.
I enjoy romances with characters battling addictions because I’m a sucker for books with angst and toxic relationships, and these types of stories usually deliver on those fronts. This was one of the milder books I’ve read with this theme.
The story takes place post-addiction, when the hero Jace and the heroine Oakley have been apart four years. Jace recently finished his recovery program and the two of them have reconnected. Oakley gave birth to Jace’s daughter after they had their falling out, but has been keeping her a secret to protect herself and her daughter from Jace and his addiction. The story is focused on the aftermath of everything and the rekindling of the romance between these two childhood sweethearts who were torn apart by Jace’s battle with drugs. He wanted to earn her trust back and be a part of her life again for good.
I enjoyed the story but felt like it lacked the emotional punch it needed to really be outstanding. It would have been so much more impactful if the story was longer and more fleshed out so we could see the entire span of the relationship and Jace’s addiction. Even though this could be considered a second chance romance, it’s hard to feel that way about it because we weren’t present for the ‘before’ era of their romance aside from a few brief flashback scenes. So it was harder to be emotionally invested, as much as I wanted to. Had the book started when they were falling in love as kids, progressed to show Jace develop the addiction and his struggle with it, and THEN went on to focus on the recovery, it would have been a lot more satisfying and complete, in my opinion. But this book felt surprisingly light and low angst considering the context. For a recovering addict, Jace didn’t appear to struggle much with temptation or thoughts that I would assume a long-term drug user would inevitably have difficulty with. Don’t get me wrong, the story was bittersweet and I was rooting for these two to finally work things out. But I think I need a little more drama and intensity to really love a book and consider it memorable. There wasn’t really a climax to the story and even Jace finding out about his daughter was a bit lackluster. It was heartwarming to see these two get their HEA, but I would have preferred to see a more challenging road to get there.
*spoilers below*
This was a decent and well-written story.
I enjoy romances with characters battling addictions because I’m a sucker for books with angst and toxic relationships, and these types of stories usually deliver on those fronts. This was one of the milder books I’ve read with this theme.
The story takes place post-addiction, when the hero Jace and the heroine Oakley have been apart four years. Jace recently finished his recovery program and the two of them have reconnected. Oakley gave birth to Jace’s daughter after they had their falling out, but has been keeping her a secret to protect herself and her daughter from Jace and his addiction. The story is focused on the aftermath of everything and the rekindling of the romance between these two childhood sweethearts who were torn apart by Jace’s battle with drugs. He wanted to earn her trust back and be a part of her life again for good.
I enjoyed the story but felt like it lacked the emotional punch it needed to really be outstanding. It would have been so much more impactful if the story was longer and more fleshed out so we could see the entire span of the relationship and Jace’s addiction. Even though this could be considered a second chance romance, it’s hard to feel that way about it because we weren’t present for the ‘before’ era of their romance aside from a few brief flashback scenes. So it was harder to be emotionally invested, as much as I wanted to. Had the book started when they were falling in love as kids, progressed to show Jace develop the addiction and his struggle with it, and THEN went on to focus on the recovery, it would have been a lot more satisfying and complete, in my opinion. But this book felt surprisingly light and low angst considering the context. For a recovering addict, Jace didn’t appear to struggle much with temptation or thoughts that I would assume a long-term drug user would inevitably have difficulty with. Don’t get me wrong, the story was bittersweet and I was rooting for these two to finally work things out. But I think I need a little more drama and intensity to really love a book and consider it memorable. There wasn’t really a climax to the story and even Jace finding out about his daughter was a bit lackluster. It was heartwarming to see these two get their HEA, but I would have preferred to see a more challenging road to get there.
March 11, 2021
I enjoyed this. I like the depth it went into, bits were missed and bits went too slow/too quick but overall I enjoyed this. Especially as it’s something a bit different than the normal which I liked.
December 15, 2020
I'm no stranger to addiction and the scars it leaves behind, and this book tackles this topic in one of the most *real* ways I've ever read. How far can you drag yourself to save someone who has no intention of being saved? How long do you destroy your heart watching the person you love more than anything be so careless with their own life -- and yours? How do you stay when you both love and hate whay the addict has become? How do you stay when there is nothing left of yourself?
Growing up in an addiction - riddled household, this book was tough for me to read. I saw so much of myself in these characters, and even though I wanted to hate Jace and all the horrible things he did, my heart just broke for him. Addiction consumes all the good in your life: all the happy, bright and shiny places are now devoid, dark and hollow. It grips your soul in its grasp so tightly that the only way you think you can ever be happy is to keep using, to keep chasing that high. They just never tell you how decimating the free fall is.
Oakley killed me. She had so much strength, even if she didn't see herself that way. She is giving her young daughter the best life possible, even if that means keeping her away from the one man she will always love. When Jace tries to make contact with them -- after getting sober -- Oakley had to decide on whether or not she can risk him not only breaking her heart all over again, but their daughters as well. And I love, LOVE, that even though there were times where she wanted to give in, she always put her daughter first until Jace continuously proved himself to them both. Gosh, is anyone's eyes leaning here, or is it just me?!
This is not an easy book to read, but it's such an important one. Their journey isn't rainbows and butterflies, but shows the reality of life and how one decision can change the entire course of your future. I cannot recommend this book enough!
**I received an ARC of this book and these are my honest opinions!**
Growing up in an addiction - riddled household, this book was tough for me to read. I saw so much of myself in these characters, and even though I wanted to hate Jace and all the horrible things he did, my heart just broke for him. Addiction consumes all the good in your life: all the happy, bright and shiny places are now devoid, dark and hollow. It grips your soul in its grasp so tightly that the only way you think you can ever be happy is to keep using, to keep chasing that high. They just never tell you how decimating the free fall is.
Oakley killed me. She had so much strength, even if she didn't see herself that way. She is giving her young daughter the best life possible, even if that means keeping her away from the one man she will always love. When Jace tries to make contact with them -- after getting sober -- Oakley had to decide on whether or not she can risk him not only breaking her heart all over again, but their daughters as well. And I love, LOVE, that even though there were times where she wanted to give in, she always put her daughter first until Jace continuously proved himself to them both. Gosh, is anyone's eyes leaning here, or is it just me?!
This is not an easy book to read, but it's such an important one. Their journey isn't rainbows and butterflies, but shows the reality of life and how one decision can change the entire course of your future. I cannot recommend this book enough!
**I received an ARC of this book and these are my honest opinions!**
March 2, 2021
I absolutely loved this story! It isn’t often that you get to read a book that deals with addiction and the aftermath of the choices a character makes during the lowest time in their life. Jace’s road to recovery isn’t easy, especially when he’s left a wake of broken promises to the only girl he has ever loved. Now clean and ready for a second chance, Jace is determined to make amends for his past and reclaim his girl.
Oakley may have moved on physically but mentally and emotionally, her heart has always belonged to her first love, Jace. With him back in town and in her life, Oakley has to make one of the hardest decisions of her life. Can she forgive Jace for a past that has broken her trust in him and if she does, will she ever be able to trust him again?
This story was so good. It will hit you right in the feels. For anyone who has ever dealt with addiction or has someone in their family struggling with addiction, this story will definitely hit close to home.
I listened to this on audiobook and it was my first time hearing Stevi Incremona. She really did an amazing job telling this story. This book is told in dual POV; however, the narrator tells both Jace and Oakley’s POV and honestly does an incredible job!!
Oakley may have moved on physically but mentally and emotionally, her heart has always belonged to her first love, Jace. With him back in town and in her life, Oakley has to make one of the hardest decisions of her life. Can she forgive Jace for a past that has broken her trust in him and if she does, will she ever be able to trust him again?
This story was so good. It will hit you right in the feels. For anyone who has ever dealt with addiction or has someone in their family struggling with addiction, this story will definitely hit close to home.
I listened to this on audiobook and it was my first time hearing Stevi Incremona. She really did an amazing job telling this story. This book is told in dual POV; however, the narrator tells both Jace and Oakley’s POV and honestly does an incredible job!!
December 12, 2020
🌹 Melissa toppen
🍾 Poison& whine
🌹 This book flooded me with a lot of emotions it goes deep into my heart
I could not put the book down
🍾 This is a story about a second chance story love
Jace and Oacley
Young people who were unlucky and had to separate
🌹 Their story is sweet, painful, poignant, heartbreakin This emotional story will strike you all with a wide range of feelings
🍾It's a story that has a lot of real story from ours life
It touches on drug addiction and how bad it is and adversely changes the lives of entire families
🌹I'll be honest and say when I read this book. I often felt that mayby they could fight differently but
But who am I to judge?
🍾 The romance of this couple is not sparks and rainbows. The way they had to fight was not wine and roses
🌹There are no easy answers and things are never black or white because there is a lot of gray here
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐from my bottom heart ♥️
I highly recommend🌹
December 11, 2020
HOLY HELL! I was not expecting Poison & Wine to hit like it did, and because of that, I'm not trying to give much description or naming names. This story was chalk full of so much emotional turmoil that every last one of my emotions were out running amok. My heart splintered, my eyes went rogue to flood my blanket, and the pain just seeped out of my kindle so I was wrapped up in like it was my own. I mean, what a gift Melissa Toppen has to convey what she did so realistically that I'll never be the same to be honest. Trying to help the person we love who is on a path of destruction to the aftermath of addiction when it comes to the people who love them, and that frustrating task of repairing the damage & trust. So yeah, get your tissues ready & hit those one click buttons for an emotional ride! HIGHLY HIGHLY HIGHLY RECOMMEND!
December 12, 2020
Jace has loved Oakley since she was a child and due to their less than idyllic childhoods they were each other’s everything. The choices that Jace made to numb the pain he was in was destructive not only to him but to Oakley as well. It sent him into a downward spiral and Oakley felt helpless and believed that the only way to save both of them was to leave
Four years later Oakley has created a new life for herself when Jace reaches out and brings up all the pain and hurt she has tried to bury for so long. They are no longer the people they used to be but the love between them hasn’t diminished over time but is it enough to overcome the pain of the past?
This story takes you on an emotional journey that won’t leave you untouched. Jace wants to prove that Oakley can trust him but only she can decide if the reward of being with him is worth the risk.
Four years later Oakley has created a new life for herself when Jace reaches out and brings up all the pain and hurt she has tried to bury for so long. They are no longer the people they used to be but the love between them hasn’t diminished over time but is it enough to overcome the pain of the past?
This story takes you on an emotional journey that won’t leave you untouched. Jace wants to prove that Oakley can trust him but only she can decide if the reward of being with him is worth the risk.
January 28, 2021
"I knew from the first moment I laid eyes on Jace Matthews that he would be the boy to ruin me for everyone else. And I was right."
Addiction paired with a second chance made for an emotional and heart crushing stand-alone read, this couple's story may require both tissues and a few thrown objects, but it lent insight on the carnage it causes, the long, seemingly impossible road of sobriety, and the hope, love, and regaining trust that was previously shattered. So many mountains to climb, it's a journey for both of them, with multiple unexpected events along the way. I cried, I smiled, I felt the rush of romance, the heat of attraction, and the satisfaction of all things working themselves out by the end. A tough, engaging, and memorable read!!
Addiction paired with a second chance made for an emotional and heart crushing stand-alone read, this couple's story may require both tissues and a few thrown objects, but it lent insight on the carnage it causes, the long, seemingly impossible road of sobriety, and the hope, love, and regaining trust that was previously shattered. So many mountains to climb, it's a journey for both of them, with multiple unexpected events along the way. I cried, I smiled, I felt the rush of romance, the heat of attraction, and the satisfaction of all things working themselves out by the end. A tough, engaging, and memorable read!!
December 28, 2020
Wow! This was such a deep and meaningful story! The struggles were shown from both perspectives! Intriguing and heart breaking! So realistic and very well written! Melissa Toppen brings real life issues to the forefront in such a touching way! Awesome read!
December 12, 2020
A roller coaster of emotions that will have you cheering every step of the way.
November 14, 2020
Jace and Oakley’s story takes you on an emotional rides. Their story is real and raw. It’s not all sunshine and flowers, but it is one about hitting the bottom and rising from the ashes. It is a must read!
November 15, 2020
This book went beyond my expectations. I do not know how Melissa continues to write such moving stories. This book had it all from love, disappointment, grief, addiction, and starting over. I literally could not put this book down as I felt like I was in the story. We get to follow Oakley and Jace from childhood to adulthood and everything that happens in between. I love that we get to hear from both sides of the story. The realness that I got from this book was off the charts. This is a must-read book and I will be a lifelong supporter of Melissa's work!
December 11, 2020
I knew this story was going to be a tough read when I read the 1st chapter. Addiction is a very hard subject and most of us know someone who has been in that battle.
Once again Melissa takes a tough subject and make into an interesting story. This book is about Jace & Oakley. They grew up as young friends that become a couple during their teens and continue their relationship as young adults. Both Jace & Oakley grow up in disfunctional families. Jace unfortunately deals with abuse in his home and leans on his friendship with Oakley. She becomes his “safe haven”. But as he get into his teens he starts drinking to deal and then starts getting high. This begins his downfall and the start of becoming an addict.
We begin the story 4 years later and Oakley is on her way to see Jace who’s been in a Rehab Facility for awhile. He had written her a letter asking here to come. She goes for closure and he is willing to let her go after he apologizes to her. But their lives collide when tragedy strikes his life and she’s the one there to give him support as friend. She even tells him “Let me help you”
Some chapters take you back into their past where you’ll read how things began to fall apart for Jace & Oakley was always trying to be there to pick up the pieces till it almost kills her. But that tragedy has her making a decision to leave town and begin her new life.
This book has secrets revealed, sobriety, trust and new beginnings. It’s a rough road to travel to get to their HEA.
Once you start reading, you will not want to put this book down. Hooked from the first chapter. Once again Melissa you’ve written another 5 Star book!
Once again Melissa takes a tough subject and make into an interesting story. This book is about Jace & Oakley. They grew up as young friends that become a couple during their teens and continue their relationship as young adults. Both Jace & Oakley grow up in disfunctional families. Jace unfortunately deals with abuse in his home and leans on his friendship with Oakley. She becomes his “safe haven”. But as he get into his teens he starts drinking to deal and then starts getting high. This begins his downfall and the start of becoming an addict.
We begin the story 4 years later and Oakley is on her way to see Jace who’s been in a Rehab Facility for awhile. He had written her a letter asking here to come. She goes for closure and he is willing to let her go after he apologizes to her. But their lives collide when tragedy strikes his life and she’s the one there to give him support as friend. She even tells him “Let me help you”
Some chapters take you back into their past where you’ll read how things began to fall apart for Jace & Oakley was always trying to be there to pick up the pieces till it almost kills her. But that tragedy has her making a decision to leave town and begin her new life.
This book has secrets revealed, sobriety, trust and new beginnings. It’s a rough road to travel to get to their HEA.
Once you start reading, you will not want to put this book down. Hooked from the first chapter. Once again Melissa you’ve written another 5 Star book!
December 11, 2020
5 Break My Heart Stars!!! Melissa takes a difficult subject and tells it with so much clarity. Amazing book!
Jace & Oakley have been in love since they were children and they are just trying to get through life, so that they can get out of their town and be together. Unfortunately Jace's addictions just couldn't keep their relationship together. But after going to rehab and building himself back up after 4 years, he's ready to win his girl back. But is Oakley ready to let the man back in her life?
Melissa took a difficult subject and made it so beautiful. Coming from someone who lost someone very close to me to addiction, I felt for Oakley... it's hard watching someone you love destroy themselves. I loved the power and dynamic relationship between these two. This book definitely has it's tough moments, but it's so beautifully told!!
November 7, 2020
It’s funny how differently we view life when we’re young.
Everything feels possible- limitless.
If only things could stay that way forever.
Then maybe life wouldn’t be so complicated.
Maybe Jace would still be the same ten-year-old boy I fell in love with.
Maybe I’d still be that same girl too.
The girl who believed that there wasn’t anything we couldn’t overcome.
But I’m not that girl anymore.
Time has beaten me down, broken me, taken everything from me.
And it’s taken even more from Jace.
I naively believed that I could save him¬…
From his dad. From his anger. From his addiction.
And I nearly died trying.
It’s taken me four years to rebuild my life.
To piece my shattered heart back together.
But it all goes up in flames the moment I find myself face to face with the one person I never thought I’d see again.
He’s determined to prove he’s changed.
I’m terrified to let him try.
Because no matter how sweet it tastes, with Jace Matthews you never truly know if what you’re drinking is poison or wine, until it’s already too late.
Poison & Wine is a complete standalone, second chance romance.
Holy freaking cow! What an amazing read! Loved every page ofJace and Oakey's story. Beautifully written heartfelt. Be prepared because their journey is not an easy one and will take you on an emotional journey like no other.
Everything feels possible- limitless.
If only things could stay that way forever.
Then maybe life wouldn’t be so complicated.
Maybe Jace would still be the same ten-year-old boy I fell in love with.
Maybe I’d still be that same girl too.
The girl who believed that there wasn’t anything we couldn’t overcome.
But I’m not that girl anymore.
Time has beaten me down, broken me, taken everything from me.
And it’s taken even more from Jace.
I naively believed that I could save him¬…
From his dad. From his anger. From his addiction.
And I nearly died trying.
It’s taken me four years to rebuild my life.
To piece my shattered heart back together.
But it all goes up in flames the moment I find myself face to face with the one person I never thought I’d see again.
He’s determined to prove he’s changed.
I’m terrified to let him try.
Because no matter how sweet it tastes, with Jace Matthews you never truly know if what you’re drinking is poison or wine, until it’s already too late.
Poison & Wine is a complete standalone, second chance romance.
Holy freaking cow! What an amazing read! Loved every page ofJace and Oakey's story. Beautifully written heartfelt. Be prepared because their journey is not an easy one and will take you on an emotional journey like no other.
January 1, 2021
Jace did not have the best upbringing at all, but he found a friend and the love of his life!! When addiction takes control of your life, it is hard to regain control and maintain it. Jace has been struggling for years but something is different this time, he makes amends with everyone including Oakley. But seeing her and his brother are the start of a long process he wants!!! Recovery is hard, scary and a lifelong commitment, will Jace make it? Can he get a second chance with Oakley?
Oakley just wanted to move away from her hometown with Jace and follow their dreams. But one night changed everything for her. She had new priorities and a new outlook that she had to keep!! So when she gets the call and request to come to rehab for Jace, it is a hard and difficult decision to make. Seeing Jace stirs up every emotion in her, but she has a daughter to protect!! Can Jace be the man they all need? Can she help him stay sober?
This is a fantastic second chance read. I loved it!!! You will go through a lot of different emotions and it is worth it!! The struggle is real and this book will show you the ups and downs that come along with that. I received an ARC of this book from the author.
Oakley just wanted to move away from her hometown with Jace and follow their dreams. But one night changed everything for her. She had new priorities and a new outlook that she had to keep!! So when she gets the call and request to come to rehab for Jace, it is a hard and difficult decision to make. Seeing Jace stirs up every emotion in her, but she has a daughter to protect!! Can Jace be the man they all need? Can she help him stay sober?
This is a fantastic second chance read. I loved it!!! You will go through a lot of different emotions and it is worth it!! The struggle is real and this book will show you the ups and downs that come along with that. I received an ARC of this book from the author.
November 9, 2020
This is the type of read that inspires so many feelings in the reader. This is Oakley and Jace's second chance at love. Their story is sweet, painful, poignant, heartbreaking and hopeful. This emotional tale will hit everyone in the feels but for those readers that have have an up-close and personal, skin-in-the-game, relationship with addiction, it is really going to hit close to home and I count myself as one of those readers. So I'll be honest and say my own feelings were all over the place as I read this book. I often felt very torn over these characters, their choices and their whole situation. And you know what? I truly felt that was how you should feel. This couple's romance is not sparkles and rainbows. The path they have to travel is far from smooth, there are no easy answers and things are never simply black or white because there is in fact a whole lot of gray. If you enjoy reads that will have your emotions in a whirl and characters that are skillfully created with flaws that make them incredibly realistic, then you should grab a copy of this book and prepare yourself for the monumental journey it will take you on. I am electing to post a candid review.
November 13, 2020
Second chances are hit and miss for me.
Add in a drug addiction that the heroine just wouldn't see past and this one was hard for me.
I loved and hated this one. I love when a character has a HUGE character flaw to overcome. What I didn't like was the heroine just couldn't. I get her apprehension, I 100% do. But lord girl give the guy just a hint of a chance. How he hung on is beyond me. But I guess the same could be said for Oakley and how long she stayed when the drinking turned to drugs. Jace was a real life character for me. I could see him. I could see his struggles
I was waiting for some big thing b/c of the past books by Ms. Toppen. I was ready for tears and snot. This one didn't have that. And that's not a BAD thing, just that I was waiting for it. Maybe it was that I was waiting for something to be going on with Lance and Kiera. Cheating is a HUGE no for me. I can't do cheating and while I didn't like the relationship Lance and Oakley had, it would have been big for me. So maybe that is what had me on edge.
I loved Ellie, I wanted more of her. I hated the lie. I almost stopped reading.
Add in a drug addiction that the heroine just wouldn't see past and this one was hard for me.
I loved and hated this one. I love when a character has a HUGE character flaw to overcome. What I didn't like was the heroine just couldn't. I get her apprehension, I 100% do. But lord girl give the guy just a hint of a chance. How he hung on is beyond me. But I guess the same could be said for Oakley and how long she stayed when the drinking turned to drugs. Jace was a real life character for me. I could see him. I could see his struggles
I was waiting for some big thing b/c of the past books by Ms. Toppen. I was ready for tears and snot. This one didn't have that. And that's not a BAD thing, just that I was waiting for it. Maybe it was that I was waiting for something to be going on with Lance and Kiera. Cheating is a HUGE no for me. I can't do cheating and while I didn't like the relationship Lance and Oakley had, it would have been big for me. So maybe that is what had me on edge.
I loved Ellie, I wanted more of her. I hated the lie. I almost stopped reading.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
November 30, 2020
Poison & Wine is a fantastic second chance read. I loved every moment of this one and could not put this down. The array of emotions you go through in this one will just break you and put you back together again. You will take a journey through the struggle of addiction and what it does to families and friends. This book is everything. Jace will take your heart as he struggles and grows. As Jace works on healing and bettering himself you see such amazing strength. Oakley is an amazing single mom. She works hard to give her daughter everything even if that means sheltering her from Jace. Oakley and Jace childhood friends turned sweethearts have had years of ups and downs. You feel for the choices Oakley has to make to keep her and her daughter safe. You feel for her love for Jace and having to put aside all the negative around her and pull him into the positive light. I love Jace and Oakley together. You feel the struggles and the love between them. You get so much out of this one and makes you want to hug those you know struggling with addiction even more. You need to experience Oakley and Jace for yourself.
November 22, 2020
Follow Oakley and Jace on this roller coaster ride full of emotions. Young and in love Jace made too many mistakes and almost killed the love of his life Oakley when he made a wrong decision to use drugs. Oakley walks away from Jace and gets a new life with Lance. She is happy and in love until Jace is in rehab and needs to see Oakley. She goes to the rehab center where Jace apologizes and said that he hopes someday Oakley can forgive him. She says she does and after leaving and seeing Jace the four years that they were apart seems like just yesterday. All the emotions come flowing back to Oakley. She now can’t get her mind off Jace. Wondering if he will stay clean? An accident happens and Oakley must help Jace. She moves him into her guest house and knows that this is not a good idea. She can’t keep her mind off of their old life and the happiness they once shared. What will happen with Oakley and Jace? Will he relapse in his drug addition? Will they end up happy? Don’t miss this 5 star read by Melissa Toppen ...Poison &Wine!
December 13, 2020
This story was emotional from beginning to the epilogue. Jace and Oakley were childhood best friends turned lovers and then turned not enemies but more like strangers. Jace grew up in a home where he was abused and as things progressed he became an addict. Sadly it was him and his brother that both became victims of this sickness. Oakley tried her best with Jace being there for him until things turned bad. Fast forward couple years and he’s clean. But Jace doesn’t want to drag her back into his madness. They both do still love each other and stayed away. Then something tragic happens and Oakley can’t help but be there for Jace. But things aren’t as easy since she has trust issues when it comes to his addiction. And she also has a little surprise for Jace. These two were strong for their young age but were so amazing but yet so emotional. I love how things didn’t happen overnight and how Oakley didn’t trust him immediately. Jace struggled but he knew what he had to fight for. Such an emotional story and the epilogue was amazing. They deserved this peace and happiness.
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