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Ardor Creek #2
Illusions Unveiled
Sometimes you squander all your second chances…
Peter Stratford fell in love at seven years old with the only woman who would ever claim his heart. But Carrie represented Ardor Creek, the town Peter detested. Determined to make something of himself in New York City, he leaves her behind, breaking both their hearts.
Carrie Longwood accepted that Peter would never love her enough to stay. Embracing her inner strength, she married another and had her precious boys before her messy divorce. Alone in Ardor Creek, she builds her life around her small family unit.
When Peter returns to Ardor Creek, battered and broken from addiction, he begins to heal, knowing Carrie will never forgive him. But Carrie kept her own secrets and, whether they’re ready or not, all of their illusions will be unveiled…
Welcome back to Ardor Creek! If you love second chance romance, this book is for you! As with all of Ayla’s books, there’s a slight holiday theme, and this one ends with a lovely Thanksgiving. The main character is a recovered addict whose addictions are discussed openly so please consider before reading. Enjoy!
Peter Stratford fell in love at seven years old with the only woman who would ever claim his heart. But Carrie represented Ardor Creek, the town Peter detested. Determined to make something of himself in New York City, he leaves her behind, breaking both their hearts.
Carrie Longwood accepted that Peter would never love her enough to stay. Embracing her inner strength, she married another and had her precious boys before her messy divorce. Alone in Ardor Creek, she builds her life around her small family unit.
When Peter returns to Ardor Creek, battered and broken from addiction, he begins to heal, knowing Carrie will never forgive him. But Carrie kept her own secrets and, whether they’re ready or not, all of their illusions will be unveiled…
Welcome back to Ardor Creek! If you love second chance romance, this book is for you! As with all of Ayla’s books, there’s a slight holiday theme, and this one ends with a lovely Thanksgiving. The main character is a recovered addict whose addictions are discussed openly so please consider before reading. Enjoy!
196 pages, ebook
Published October 27, 2020
143 people are currently reading
310 people want to read
About the author
Ayla Asher
12 books584 followersAyla Asher is the pen name for a USA Today bestselling author who writes steamy fantasy romance under a different pseudonym. However, she loves a spicy, fast-paced contemporary romance too! Therefore, she's decided to share some of her contemporary stories, hoping to spread a little joy one HEA at a time.
She would love to connect with you on social media, where she enjoys making dorky TikToks, FB/IG posts and fun book trailers!
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Email: authoraylaasher@gmail.com
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She would love to connect with you on social media, where she enjoys making dorky TikToks, FB/IG posts and fun book trailers!
Facebook: https://bit.ly/3vUlqmU
Instagram: https://bit.ly/3jGhwcq
TikTok: http://bit.ly/3bz1gF7
Email: authoraylaasher@gmail.com
Newsletter: subscribepage.com/aylaasher
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 103 reviews
February 8, 2021
If I had to describe this book in one word, it would be “heartwarming.” Peter and Carrie’s second chance at love has been a long time coming. She was the preacher’s kid. He struggled with addiction. I love a good second-chance romance where the characters have taken a beating, matured into better versions of themselves, and are truly ready to put the best versions of themselves forward, correcting past mistakes. Seeing Peter and Carrie now as mature adults with Carrie’s kids in the picture made for a great dynamic. “Illusions Unveiled” also examines the complex struggles of everyday life. As someone with chronic medical issues, I especially loved that this book puts an authentic and sensitive focus on a serious genetic kidney condition and examines how it affects everyone in the family. Carrie’s son Sebastian is sick, and Peter has a chance to show he’s ready to be the husband and father this family needs this time around. I love all the characters and relationships in this series so much and it’s wonderful getting to see them grow together and appear in scenes even after their HEA (Ashlyn and Scott!!) I can’t wait to discover whose story I’ll get to read in book three.
Please excuse typos/name misspellings. Entered on screen reader.
Please excuse typos/name misspellings. Entered on screen reader.
October 25, 2020
**** 4.5 stars ****
ARC received in exchange of an honest review
It's the second book in the Ardor Creek series. And I loved this more than the previous one.
The emotions involved were so strong that in some scene I had tears in my eyes.
⚫ Characters are really amazing.
Peter is a fucked up character who really messed up his relationship with Carie but she on the other hand is so amazing that after 4 decades she was still ready to have him.
⚫Their past is so tangled with their overbearing parents, need to explore, get out of the small town etc etc...
But fatefully the future was on their side.
⚫ Writing style of the author is so simple yet attractive. The easy way the story flowed was something very rare authors could make happen.
It was short yet satisfying. I loved this thing too.... that being a short novel it had explained almost every segment in depth.
ARC received in exchange of an honest review
It's the second book in the Ardor Creek series. And I loved this more than the previous one.
The emotions involved were so strong that in some scene I had tears in my eyes.
⚫ Characters are really amazing.
Peter is a fucked up character who really messed up his relationship with Carie but she on the other hand is so amazing that after 4 decades she was still ready to have him.
⚫Their past is so tangled with their overbearing parents, need to explore, get out of the small town etc etc...
But fatefully the future was on their side.
⚫ Writing style of the author is so simple yet attractive. The easy way the story flowed was something very rare authors could make happen.
It was short yet satisfying. I loved this thing too.... that being a short novel it had explained almost every segment in depth.
April 24, 2021
Moving Passed Addiction and Secrets
4.5 stars - I really like Carrie and Peter's story. It's very realistic and revisits their tumultuous pasts. The heartbreak, secrets, and addiction all bubble to the surface multiple times and in different ways. There's a lot of fear and redemption in this second chance romance. There's also some immensely gratifying adult times that are muy caliente! 🔥💥🎉
This story is poignant, adorable, heartbreaking, and wonderful with an HEA that is incredibly cute. We also got to see little peeks into how Scott and Ashlyn from book one of the series are doing.
I listened to a free copy of the audio. The narrators are Wen Ross and Kai Kennicott, both of whom I really like. I love that all of the male voices are done by Wen and Kai does all of the females regardless of whose chapter it is.
Story: 4.5 stars
Narration: 4 stars
4.5 stars - I really like Carrie and Peter's story. It's very realistic and revisits their tumultuous pasts. The heartbreak, secrets, and addiction all bubble to the surface multiple times and in different ways. There's a lot of fear and redemption in this second chance romance. There's also some immensely gratifying adult times that are muy caliente! 🔥💥🎉
This story is poignant, adorable, heartbreaking, and wonderful with an HEA that is incredibly cute. We also got to see little peeks into how Scott and Ashlyn from book one of the series are doing.
I listened to a free copy of the audio. The narrators are Wen Ross and Kai Kennicott, both of whom I really like. I love that all of the male voices are done by Wen and Kai does all of the females regardless of whose chapter it is.
Story: 4.5 stars
Narration: 4 stars
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July 16, 2023Notes for my own reference:
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 9, 2023
I’ve been looking forward to Carrie and Peter’s story since I met them in Hearts Reclaimed. Carrie was a vivacious, funny, stalwart single mom of two rambunctious boys with deep-seated love and wariness about returned to town, recovering addict and childhood sweetheart Peter. As the star of her own story she is confident, cautious, kind and in full mom mode when one of her children, Sebastian, inherits an illness from her mother. This illness serves to not only change the life of her son, but those around her as her past comes back to smack her into reality with a flourish.
Sebastian’s illness serves as a catalyst for Peter to own up to the way he’d treated Carrie when they were young and put the emotional tools he’s learned as a recovering addict to good use. As he works to prove to Carrie he isn’t the antsy, cold, scared young boy of his youth, he discovers everything he wants is within his grasp if only he can get Carrie to believe him and trust him again.
I really liked how Peter doesn’t shy away from admitting he’s an addict. He’s open about the temptations that come with him working in the city and maintains it’s one of the reasons he’s happy to forge a home in Ardor Creek. His ability to keep a level head in moments of shock and tremendous upheaval is commendable and proves he’s grown and matured with age and experience.
Carrie has also changed for the better. She is no longer starry-eyed and amenable to Peter now she has two boys who need her to be strong. After her disastrous divorce with a nasty husband, she bounced back with a spine of steel and isn’t afraid to say what she needs. She does let fear get in her way when it comes to Peter though, almost to her own self-sabotage.
I love the moment of humor woven into the serious circumstances and how Carrie and Peter were able to still laugh together.
I really enjoyed how these characters were on the cusp of turning forty and their lives consisted of mature discussions and decisions. They know each other well so their bedroom fun was sexy and inventive, another great thing about this is it shows older characters still being active and fun in the bedroom and aren’t afraid to ask for what they need from their partner.
I really liked Sebastian and Charlie. They were cute kids who weren’t written to be older than their years. They had appropriate outbursts and reluctance and were great kids. Their burgeoning relationship with Peter was lovely to read.
I really enjoy reading Ayla’s books. They’re emotional and funny, each character goes on a healing journey and the relationships between all the characters are tight-knit and authentic.
I received an advanced copy of this from the author in exchange for an honest review.
Sebastian’s illness serves as a catalyst for Peter to own up to the way he’d treated Carrie when they were young and put the emotional tools he’s learned as a recovering addict to good use. As he works to prove to Carrie he isn’t the antsy, cold, scared young boy of his youth, he discovers everything he wants is within his grasp if only he can get Carrie to believe him and trust him again.
I really liked how Peter doesn’t shy away from admitting he’s an addict. He’s open about the temptations that come with him working in the city and maintains it’s one of the reasons he’s happy to forge a home in Ardor Creek. His ability to keep a level head in moments of shock and tremendous upheaval is commendable and proves he’s grown and matured with age and experience.
Carrie has also changed for the better. She is no longer starry-eyed and amenable to Peter now she has two boys who need her to be strong. After her disastrous divorce with a nasty husband, she bounced back with a spine of steel and isn’t afraid to say what she needs. She does let fear get in her way when it comes to Peter though, almost to her own self-sabotage.
I love the moment of humor woven into the serious circumstances and how Carrie and Peter were able to still laugh together.
I really enjoyed how these characters were on the cusp of turning forty and their lives consisted of mature discussions and decisions. They know each other well so their bedroom fun was sexy and inventive, another great thing about this is it shows older characters still being active and fun in the bedroom and aren’t afraid to ask for what they need from their partner.
I really liked Sebastian and Charlie. They were cute kids who weren’t written to be older than their years. They had appropriate outbursts and reluctance and were great kids. Their burgeoning relationship with Peter was lovely to read.
I really enjoy reading Ayla’s books. They’re emotional and funny, each character goes on a healing journey and the relationships between all the characters are tight-knit and authentic.
I received an advanced copy of this from the author in exchange for an honest review.
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June 22, 2022🎧Now on Audio!🎧
Narrated by Kai Kennicott & Wen Ross!
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Or, you can always download review copies of all of Ayla's audiobooks on StoryOrigin if you are are an ARC listener and enjoy leaving reviews.💕
Happy listening!
Narrated by Kai Kennicott & Wen Ross!
Audible US: http://adbl.co/2Lt4roY
Audible UK: http://adbl.co/3twaav5
iTunes: https://apple.co/31K29q4
Kobo: http://bit.ly/2KHVZ4l
Google Play: http://bit.ly/37GT4SA
Scribd: http://bit.ly/3plGAWn
Chirp: http://bit.ly/2WKvVsc
Barnes & Noble Audio: https://bit.ly/34vThJp
Authors Direct: http://bit.ly/39gRZAC
Hoopla: https://bit.ly/3D0LDmR
Or, you can always download review copies of all of Ayla's audiobooks on StoryOrigin if you are are an ARC listener and enjoy leaving reviews.💕
Happy listening!
December 27, 2020
Wonderful Story & Narration🎧 A Heartfelt Delight!
Illusions Unveiled
Ardor Creek, Book 2
By: Ayla Asher
Narrated by: Kai Kennicott, Wen Ross
This is a wonderful second chance romance, this is the second book of the “Ardor Creek” series and the story is as beautifully written as the first book. The storylines are interesting and contain a whole lot of heart, the story grabbed my attention right from the start and captivated it the entire book. I am loving how realistic and relatable the characters in this series are, the two lead characters are first introduced in the first book “Hearts Reclaimed”, each book features a different couple in Ardor Creek, a small town in PA. I recommend reading and/or listening to that book before this because you will get more out of this book if you do, plus that book is just as wonderful as this. Peter Stratford wanted out of Ardor Creek, small town life was not enough for him neither was Carrie Longwood, his friend turned girlfriend. She was the preachers daughter and they knew each other since they were kids. Carrie made a life for herself in Ardor Creek, she is now divorced after marrying the wrong man, a man whom Peter practically pushed her towards. She has no regrets because she came out with two wonderful sons. Peter lived the fast life for years, until it caught up to him and he landed in hot water. He cleaned up his act and came back to Ardor Creek, he works with Scott Grillo and is trying to make mends with Carrie. He now knows she is the love of his life and it has always been her. But she has trust issues, he broker her heart once before what is to say he will not do it again. When she is faced with a life changing decision she must reveal a secret, one that no one knows. I will no say much about it other than my heart went out to them. I loved how everything plays out in this book, the story is well plotted and there is never a dull moment. The author does a great job covering and handling real life situations, addictions, recovery, health issues and crappy upbringings. There is plenty of drama, heartfelt and emotional moments, a surprising twist, just a touch of angst and a wonderful romance. Ayla Asher, thank you for another wonderful story.
I listened to the audiobook edition, Kia Kennicott and Wen Ross are fabulous narrators and voice artists. They bring these characters to life, humanize them, give them their voices and their personality. Their portrayal of the characters is spot on, Kai Kennicott played Carrie’s role with perfections, as Wen Ross did for Peter. You could hear how much heart they put into their work as they capture the characters emotions and project them into their performance. They are entertaining storyteller and a pleasure to listen to. Thank you for another wonderful listen🎧
Illusions Unveiled
Ardor Creek, Book 2
By: Ayla Asher
Narrated by: Kai Kennicott, Wen Ross
This is a wonderful second chance romance, this is the second book of the “Ardor Creek” series and the story is as beautifully written as the first book. The storylines are interesting and contain a whole lot of heart, the story grabbed my attention right from the start and captivated it the entire book. I am loving how realistic and relatable the characters in this series are, the two lead characters are first introduced in the first book “Hearts Reclaimed”, each book features a different couple in Ardor Creek, a small town in PA. I recommend reading and/or listening to that book before this because you will get more out of this book if you do, plus that book is just as wonderful as this. Peter Stratford wanted out of Ardor Creek, small town life was not enough for him neither was Carrie Longwood, his friend turned girlfriend. She was the preachers daughter and they knew each other since they were kids. Carrie made a life for herself in Ardor Creek, she is now divorced after marrying the wrong man, a man whom Peter practically pushed her towards. She has no regrets because she came out with two wonderful sons. Peter lived the fast life for years, until it caught up to him and he landed in hot water. He cleaned up his act and came back to Ardor Creek, he works with Scott Grillo and is trying to make mends with Carrie. He now knows she is the love of his life and it has always been her. But she has trust issues, he broker her heart once before what is to say he will not do it again. When she is faced with a life changing decision she must reveal a secret, one that no one knows. I will no say much about it other than my heart went out to them. I loved how everything plays out in this book, the story is well plotted and there is never a dull moment. The author does a great job covering and handling real life situations, addictions, recovery, health issues and crappy upbringings. There is plenty of drama, heartfelt and emotional moments, a surprising twist, just a touch of angst and a wonderful romance. Ayla Asher, thank you for another wonderful story.
I listened to the audiobook edition, Kia Kennicott and Wen Ross are fabulous narrators and voice artists. They bring these characters to life, humanize them, give them their voices and their personality. Their portrayal of the characters is spot on, Kai Kennicott played Carrie’s role with perfections, as Wen Ross did for Peter. You could hear how much heart they put into their work as they capture the characters emotions and project them into their performance. They are entertaining storyteller and a pleasure to listen to. Thank you for another wonderful listen🎧
January 4, 2021
Ayla Asher does it again. She pulls me into her stories and won't let me out until the very end. The Ardor Creek series is not only entertaining, but Asher has woven in incredibly realistic characters. This story lets us meet Peter and Carrie, high school sweethearts, destined to be married until Peter decides he needs to get out Ardor Creek. Unwilling to leave, Carrie starts her new life, falls in love and has two beautiful children, living in her home town. But life is never easy, and Carrie now divorced is starting over. Peter lived the fast life in New York City, finding himself at rock bottom. He cleaned up his act and has returned to Ardor Creek. He and Carrie begin to mend their friendship, and as he wants more, she is hesitant. Trust is important and Carrie has been burnt. Just as things begin to go right, a tragedy hits, and Carrie is forced to make decisions that could change all their lives. Will Peter come through for her? Will their love be strong enough to be the glue they need? I have to say, Carrie is a strong woman. At times I was frustrated with both of them, each not willing to give in when it came to where they live. But I love how their love prevails, and the outcome of their story. It's unexpected and beautiful. I know that last scene had me tearing up! It's a wonderful addition to the series and I am excited for book 3.
Kai Kennicott and Wen Ross continue their narration of the series. It's no secret how much I love this team. Their chemistry flow through to the characters, yet they are able to separate the changing emotions so the it all seems real. Kennicott is perfectly cast as Carrie and Kai's portrayal of a mother has all the feels. Ross truly comes through as Peter. He is genuine and brings his feelings to the table. It's emotional and wonderful, a narration you will love.
Kai Kennicott and Wen Ross continue their narration of the series. It's no secret how much I love this team. Their chemistry flow through to the characters, yet they are able to separate the changing emotions so the it all seems real. Kennicott is perfectly cast as Carrie and Kai's portrayal of a mother has all the feels. Ross truly comes through as Peter. He is genuine and brings his feelings to the table. It's emotional and wonderful, a narration you will love.
March 7, 2021
Warning, steamy scenes: for mature audiences.
Second chances don't come around often, but Peter and Carrie have a chance. Can they move past the events that tore them apart and survive the newly uncovered secret? Anything is possible in Ardor Creek!
I loved this story by Ayla Asher. Her characters are so real and relatable. I found myself really hoping that things would work out.
Kai Kennicott and Wen Ross did a decent job with the narration. It flowed smoother than in the first book of the series and there were fewer interactions that seemed forced.
I was given this free review copy audiobook at my request and I have voluntarily left this review.
Second chances don't come around often, but Peter and Carrie have a chance. Can they move past the events that tore them apart and survive the newly uncovered secret? Anything is possible in Ardor Creek!
I loved this story by Ayla Asher. Her characters are so real and relatable. I found myself really hoping that things would work out.
Kai Kennicott and Wen Ross did a decent job with the narration. It flowed smoother than in the first book of the series and there were fewer interactions that seemed forced.
I was given this free review copy audiobook at my request and I have voluntarily left this review.
March 5, 2021
I've been listening to this series on audio, so I don't know if it's the narrator or just the writing that make Carrie come across as a bitch. Maybe she was supposed to be in times that I thought of her that way.
I understand that she was hurt by Peter in the past, but when you forgive someone you aren't supposed to throw it in their faces every chance you get.
I hated that Peter just kept taking her abuse all because he loved her.
On the other hand I also thought Peter should have made better decisions considering she was honest about her hang ups with them possibly trying again.
They were both flawed individuals, who came to some pretty deep realizations about themselves and this relationship along the way.
I understand that she was hurt by Peter in the past, but when you forgive someone you aren't supposed to throw it in their faces every chance you get.
I hated that Peter just kept taking her abuse all because he loved her.
On the other hand I also thought Peter should have made better decisions considering she was honest about her hang ups with them possibly trying again.
They were both flawed individuals, who came to some pretty deep realizations about themselves and this relationship along the way.
January 14, 2021
This is book 2 in the Ardor Creek and can be enjoyed as a standalone.
This was such a sweet, heartfelt second chance romance with all the feels.
Kai Kennicott and Wen Ross was absolutely perfect in this. Their narration really brought out the characters and the essence in this story.
I loved hearing Carrie and Peter's story. I was curious about them when we were first introduced to them in the previous book and their story didn't dissapoint in the least.
This book was definitely an enjoyable listen overall. If you like second chance romance with heart definitely give this one a go.
This was such a sweet, heartfelt second chance romance with all the feels.
Kai Kennicott and Wen Ross was absolutely perfect in this. Their narration really brought out the characters and the essence in this story.
I loved hearing Carrie and Peter's story. I was curious about them when we were first introduced to them in the previous book and their story didn't dissapoint in the least.
This book was definitely an enjoyable listen overall. If you like second chance romance with heart definitely give this one a go.
September 23, 2024
A good story about how sometimes the timing just isn't right for a couple, but eventually everything just falls into place. I fluctuated between 3 and 4 stars but ultimately decided on 3 because of the fact I felt like Carrie had quite a bit of immaturity at times that made me cringe. It's a personal deal, but too much unnecessary drama and angst tends to irk me. But I was glad Peter and Carrie finally got their HEA, and the boys were great additions to the story. Narrators did good job bringing the story to life.
January 18, 2021
Hope in a book!
I was given a listener code in exchange for an honest review.
Many say the human spirit is resilient and there is no better example than Peter Stratford. In book 2 of the Ardor Creek Series we learn Peter and Carrie's story. Word to the wise pls ensure you are able to read/listen to at least the 1st 8 chapters.......can you say plot twist???
I really enjoyed all the back stories sprinkled within the story. This really helped understand the struggles Peter has gone through as well as why Carrie is so guarded. This 2nd chance romance is a heart felt story about 2 individuals and their struggles, their come backs and the new adventure they are about to embark on.
The duet style narration is my fave style of narration and Kai Kennicott and Wen Ross once again are amazing. The kids characters really do add a fun twist to the story and the narrators nail it! I am looking fwd to Chad's story......who doesn't love the reformed playboy right?
I was given a listener code in exchange for an honest review.
Many say the human spirit is resilient and there is no better example than Peter Stratford. In book 2 of the Ardor Creek Series we learn Peter and Carrie's story. Word to the wise pls ensure you are able to read/listen to at least the 1st 8 chapters.......can you say plot twist???
I really enjoyed all the back stories sprinkled within the story. This really helped understand the struggles Peter has gone through as well as why Carrie is so guarded. This 2nd chance romance is a heart felt story about 2 individuals and their struggles, their come backs and the new adventure they are about to embark on.
The duet style narration is my fave style of narration and Kai Kennicott and Wen Ross once again are amazing. The kids characters really do add a fun twist to the story and the narrators nail it! I am looking fwd to Chad's story......who doesn't love the reformed playboy right?
June 27, 2021
ARC received in exchange for an honest review
I really loved this book! It was a book full of emotions; tough, scary, sad, painful, exciting and heartwarming.
I can say that at first I thought the characters would be good and interesting because of the previous book they appeared in but the depth and layers revealed in this book for Peter and Carrie it made them so much more then “good” characters.
The book was so different from the usual friends to lovers we all know. There were parts that we learned the past through their memories and that was important to understand both Carrie and Peter. To know their childhood love and the reasons they were both heartbroken.
This is no ordinary story of friends for lovers.
This is not even an ordinary second-chance story.
As in the previous book in the series, it does not happen within a week or a month. There is a story here that goes on behind the scenes for decades and in the story itself we go through months upon months of development and struggles.
It's a story about forgiveness, addiction, grief and dreams that came true and dreams that destroyed them.
It's a story of two people who for decades have been in each other's hearts.
It's a story of change and hope.
This is a special and exciting story that made me smile at the end. Big goofy smile of love and hope.
I really loved this book! It was a book full of emotions; tough, scary, sad, painful, exciting and heartwarming.
I can say that at first I thought the characters would be good and interesting because of the previous book they appeared in but the depth and layers revealed in this book for Peter and Carrie it made them so much more then “good” characters.
The book was so different from the usual friends to lovers we all know. There were parts that we learned the past through their memories and that was important to understand both Carrie and Peter. To know their childhood love and the reasons they were both heartbroken.
This is no ordinary story of friends for lovers.
This is not even an ordinary second-chance story.
As in the previous book in the series, it does not happen within a week or a month. There is a story here that goes on behind the scenes for decades and in the story itself we go through months upon months of development and struggles.
It's a story about forgiveness, addiction, grief and dreams that came true and dreams that destroyed them.
It's a story of two people who for decades have been in each other's hearts.
It's a story of change and hope.
This is a special and exciting story that made me smile at the end. Big goofy smile of love and hope.
December 30, 2024
I enjoy reading romances with flawed characters, and Peter and Carrie were certainly that. Peter had worked very hard to overcome addiction and was quite self-aware of his foibles and vulnerabilities which, for a reader with access to his internal thoughts, was very compelling. He was also steadfast in his goal to ‘win back’ his sweetheart, who he readily admitted he had wronged in so many ways (there were well-placed flashbacks to give the reader a more complete picture of their difficult past). For Carrie's part, the journey of forgiveness but wariness was very believable, especially with two children to consider. The plot twist; the progression of the romance; the parenting challenges and family overtones; and the banter/conversation (even the spicy parts) were all just really, really well done. Beautifully written and full of heart.
January 1, 2021
I received an ALC in exchange for an honest review for the audiobook of Illusions Unveiled
I'm always excited to listen to the next Ayla Asher book and this one was again narrated by two of my favourites Kai Kennicott and Wen Ross. I was not disappointed by the second book in the Ardor Creek series. We met Carrie and her two boys in book 1 and I was so looking forward to hearing her story. Carrie and Peter's story is a wonderful story of forgiveness and redemption and it was told in such a believable and honest way. But that it the trademark of Ayla Asher books.
She seamlessly weaves the emotions of the characters into the story. I really felt their struggles to overcome the past, and their ever present passion and undeniable connection. This was a wonderful listen with fantastic narrators. Five stars from me and a definite listen/read!
I'm always excited to listen to the next Ayla Asher book and this one was again narrated by two of my favourites Kai Kennicott and Wen Ross. I was not disappointed by the second book in the Ardor Creek series. We met Carrie and her two boys in book 1 and I was so looking forward to hearing her story. Carrie and Peter's story is a wonderful story of forgiveness and redemption and it was told in such a believable and honest way. But that it the trademark of Ayla Asher books.
She seamlessly weaves the emotions of the characters into the story. I really felt their struggles to overcome the past, and their ever present passion and undeniable connection. This was a wonderful listen with fantastic narrators. Five stars from me and a definite listen/read!
December 25, 2020
*review for the audiobook version*
Narrated my Kai Kennicott and Wen Ross
I'm always saying after I listen to an Ayla Asher audiobook, that this is my favorite one yet. And I'll say it again, this one truly is my favorite. Carrie and Peter's story is unforgettable and absolutely memorable. This author always brings it with everything that she writes. The emotions, the struggles to overcome the past, the scorching passion and undeniable connection with this couple, make my heart swell over and over again. Truly a beautiful listen with amazing narrators. Must listen/read!
Narrated my Kai Kennicott and Wen Ross
I'm always saying after I listen to an Ayla Asher audiobook, that this is my favorite one yet. And I'll say it again, this one truly is my favorite. Carrie and Peter's story is unforgettable and absolutely memorable. This author always brings it with everything that she writes. The emotions, the struggles to overcome the past, the scorching passion and undeniable connection with this couple, make my heart swell over and over again. Truly a beautiful listen with amazing narrators. Must listen/read!
January 6, 2021
Fantastic. Definitely different from her usual storyline but just as fun. Had a spin with the plot too. Love reading about older adults who aren't perfect and have a past, its much more realistic that way.
Another fantastic book by Ayla Asher! Cannot wait to read the rest of the series!
Another fantastic book by Ayla Asher! Cannot wait to read the rest of the series!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
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May 14, 2024DNF
February 9, 2021
This is book 2 in Asher's Ardor Creek series (can be read as a stand alone) and what a great addition to this series. This beautifully well written and narrated romance is the story of Peter and Carrie. These two have been in love since first sight - at like age 10 or something. But their time was never right and Peter has hurt Carrie beyond repair - or at least that what he believes until he finds out about the secret she's been keeping. A second, third or more chance - these two will have to be strong and open with each other going forward...will past hurts be too much to move forward or will their love be enough for a HEA?!? I absolutely LOVE the strength these characters have individually as well as together and I love the open communication between them as well. Narration was beautifully done by both and I love how these two narrators are able to combine to being the story and characters to life as I listen. LOVE, love, LOVE it! Can't wait for more in this Ardor Creek series!
This book was given to me for free at my request and I provided this voluntary review.
*this review is based on the audio version of this read
This book was given to me for free at my request and I provided this voluntary review.
*this review is based on the audio version of this read
February 17, 2021
OVERALL: I’ve read most of Asher’s Manhattan Holiday series, and this is book 2 in the Ardor Creek series. I love series that circle around a group of people that we get to know better in each book. Book 1 in the Ardor Creek is a widower’s story and his second chance at love. Book 2 is similar in that it is a second chance at love, but one where the characters needed time to mature in order to re-find each other later on and forgive each other.
STORYLINE: This story is incredibly realistic. Despite it being a short audiobook, it’s incredibly detailed, and I don’t feel like I was “shorted” on anything. What I do love about this book is the flashbacks in the story. I think those being peppered throughout the book really help shine a light on who these two characters are and why they are the way they are today.
CHARACTERS: I think creating characters is where Asher really shines. All of her characters feel “real,” and Peter and Carrie are no different. Yes, there is drama and history between these characters, but it doesn’t feel unnatural or forced. Peter is broken. Carrie is an “Asher woman,” patient, independent, and loving. She, unsurprisingly, has trust issues with Peter, since he left her so many years ago. Peter, a recovering addict, is written so well. He’s aware and honest about his situation, and that’s pretty refreshing. These two characters have been through the wringer over the years, and I would have hoped they would have emerged as mature, better versions of themselves. Here’s my main issue with them: when issues arise with these two, they seem to be unable to deal with them as mature adults. There’s a real disconnect with communication, which isn’t something I’ve noticed in any other Asher book. Typically, her characters feel a little more adult and capable of having an appropriate and honest dialogue with each other. When they are separate, Peter and Carrie feel like they’re able to do these things, but when they get together, their history stunts their growth, and they roll back into old habits.
NARRATION: I’ve now listened to four books narrated by Wen Ross and Kai Kennicott, and I have started actively looking for more books narrated by either/both of them. Together, they have fantastic chemistry that is enhanced by the duet narration style that Asher has in all of her books. They are both easy to listen to and quickly engage the listeners in the story.
Trigger warnings & a spoiler:
STORYLINE: This story is incredibly realistic. Despite it being a short audiobook, it’s incredibly detailed, and I don’t feel like I was “shorted” on anything. What I do love about this book is the flashbacks in the story. I think those being peppered throughout the book really help shine a light on who these two characters are and why they are the way they are today.
CHARACTERS: I think creating characters is where Asher really shines. All of her characters feel “real,” and Peter and Carrie are no different. Yes, there is drama and history between these characters, but it doesn’t feel unnatural or forced. Peter is broken. Carrie is an “Asher woman,” patient, independent, and loving. She, unsurprisingly, has trust issues with Peter, since he left her so many years ago. Peter, a recovering addict, is written so well. He’s aware and honest about his situation, and that’s pretty refreshing. These two characters have been through the wringer over the years, and I would have hoped they would have emerged as mature, better versions of themselves. Here’s my main issue with them: when issues arise with these two, they seem to be unable to deal with them as mature adults. There’s a real disconnect with communication, which isn’t something I’ve noticed in any other Asher book. Typically, her characters feel a little more adult and capable of having an appropriate and honest dialogue with each other. When they are separate, Peter and Carrie feel like they’re able to do these things, but when they get together, their history stunts their growth, and they roll back into old habits.
NARRATION: I’ve now listened to four books narrated by Wen Ross and Kai Kennicott, and I have started actively looking for more books narrated by either/both of them. Together, they have fantastic chemistry that is enhanced by the duet narration style that Asher has in all of her books. They are both easy to listen to and quickly engage the listeners in the story.
Trigger warnings & a spoiler:
February 9, 2021
True love finds a way
Wow, it’s hard to imagine a relationship like Peter & Carrie’s. They’re each other’s first love and best friends since they were little kids. They have had a l-o-n-g relationship. And like all relationships spanning that many years, it’s had it’s ups and downs. Love and heartbreak, trust and betrayal. Both have a lot of baggage, especially Peter. But if they can get past it, the true friendship and love might shine through.
Sweet, but sometimes frustrating story. Seems like the same issues just come up over and over, and instead of truly working through them and being open & honest, they both kinda act like the kids they were when their problems first started.
Kai & Wen both did a great job with the narration. They really play off each other well and make books come to life. You almost feel like you’re right there with the characters.
Wow, it’s hard to imagine a relationship like Peter & Carrie’s. They’re each other’s first love and best friends since they were little kids. They have had a l-o-n-g relationship. And like all relationships spanning that many years, it’s had it’s ups and downs. Love and heartbreak, trust and betrayal. Both have a lot of baggage, especially Peter. But if they can get past it, the true friendship and love might shine through.
Sweet, but sometimes frustrating story. Seems like the same issues just come up over and over, and instead of truly working through them and being open & honest, they both kinda act like the kids they were when their problems first started.
Kai & Wen both did a great job with the narration. They really play off each other well and make books come to life. You almost feel like you’re right there with the characters.
June 25, 2023
Pluses and Minuses
Audiobook Review:
In this second book of the Ardor Creek series, we learn about the past and see the second chance for a couple briefly seen in the first book. They first met as young children and developed a romantic relationship as teens. They broke up when he decided to pursue a career in the big city, and she wanted to remain in their small town. It's now ten years later, and she's divorced with two young boys, and he's a recovering alcoholic and substance user. Their past is more complicated than he even knows, but everything must come out in the open to help save a life. I found the hero and heroin to be complex, interesting characters. Not all of their interactions were wholly believable. This is now the second book I've listened to by this author, and this has been a problem in each book so far. Basically, characters fly off the handle nearly immediately when they have a problem and just want to break everything off despite all they've been through for one relatively small thing. The author needed to either show this as a massive trigger before the incendiary scenes or dial it back a little to make it more realistic. A couple shouldn't constantly be threatening to break it off over things that have little to do with their relationship but other aspects of their lives, like work. Reasonable adults talk about things and attempt to work them out.
I am an addiction nurse, and I didn't always like how addiction and recovery were portrayed in this book. Some of that's in the nitty-gritty details. For instance, cocaine users aren't typically called “junkies,” a very pejorative term for heroin users. It rankled every time I heard it. The character has been in recovery for several years. When that's the case, they have a much less chance of relapsing than someone who's only a few weeks, a couple of months, or even a year into the recovery process—especially if they have coping mechanisms in place, as the hero did. It also bothered me that the heroine seemed to throw his addiction past in his face when he wasn't remotely exhibiting any signs of relapse; she was more fearful of it happening than it was actually happening. That kind of treatment can actually be a trigger for someone to relapse.
The book had another medical error. The heroine’s mother died from kidney problems caused by diabetes, yet she somehow thought that her son’s kidney issues were inherited. While diabetes can have a genetic component—though it’s often more about nurture than nature—the particular complications of diabetes certainly are not inherited! That’s very individual, and complications typically take a long time to manifest. Even if the child were a type 1 diabetic, it would be highly unlikely that both kidneys would fail at age 10.
I felt like the book was divided into two somewhat disjointed parts, the part about the need to save a life and then the couple trying to figure out if they will stay together. There should have been a more natural flow between the parts. Since kids were involved and invested in their relationship, the H&h should have acted a bit more maturely toward each other.
I received a promo code for this audiobook, but that did not affect my review.
Audiobook Review:
In this second book of the Ardor Creek series, we learn about the past and see the second chance for a couple briefly seen in the first book. They first met as young children and developed a romantic relationship as teens. They broke up when he decided to pursue a career in the big city, and she wanted to remain in their small town. It's now ten years later, and she's divorced with two young boys, and he's a recovering alcoholic and substance user. Their past is more complicated than he even knows, but everything must come out in the open to help save a life. I found the hero and heroin to be complex, interesting characters. Not all of their interactions were wholly believable. This is now the second book I've listened to by this author, and this has been a problem in each book so far. Basically, characters fly off the handle nearly immediately when they have a problem and just want to break everything off despite all they've been through for one relatively small thing. The author needed to either show this as a massive trigger before the incendiary scenes or dial it back a little to make it more realistic. A couple shouldn't constantly be threatening to break it off over things that have little to do with their relationship but other aspects of their lives, like work. Reasonable adults talk about things and attempt to work them out.
I am an addiction nurse, and I didn't always like how addiction and recovery were portrayed in this book. Some of that's in the nitty-gritty details. For instance, cocaine users aren't typically called “junkies,” a very pejorative term for heroin users. It rankled every time I heard it. The character has been in recovery for several years. When that's the case, they have a much less chance of relapsing than someone who's only a few weeks, a couple of months, or even a year into the recovery process—especially if they have coping mechanisms in place, as the hero did. It also bothered me that the heroine seemed to throw his addiction past in his face when he wasn't remotely exhibiting any signs of relapse; she was more fearful of it happening than it was actually happening. That kind of treatment can actually be a trigger for someone to relapse.
The book had another medical error. The heroine’s mother died from kidney problems caused by diabetes, yet she somehow thought that her son’s kidney issues were inherited. While diabetes can have a genetic component—though it’s often more about nurture than nature—the particular complications of diabetes certainly are not inherited! That’s very individual, and complications typically take a long time to manifest. Even if the child were a type 1 diabetic, it would be highly unlikely that both kidneys would fail at age 10.
I felt like the book was divided into two somewhat disjointed parts, the part about the need to save a life and then the couple trying to figure out if they will stay together. There should have been a more natural flow between the parts. Since kids were involved and invested in their relationship, the H&h should have acted a bit more maturely toward each other.
I received a promo code for this audiobook, but that did not affect my review.
February 12, 2024
This is book two of the Ardor Creek series and brings together Peter Stratford and Carrie Longwood. They first met each at age seven in school, when she came to comfort him after he was injured by a mean boy during a game of dodgeball. He fell in love with her there and then, and as they grew into teenagers it turned into a romance, but one not approved of by her father, the local preacher! Carrie wanted them to get married and have kids, making a family in the small town, but he was lured by the thoughts of New York City and was really nasty to her before he left and even pushed her into the arms of the man she did marry, Jeff. She had two boys during her marriage, but eventually got a messy divorce a few years ago. City life and its fast pace led Peter to succumb to drugs and alcohol, being a really bad addict, until he finally realised he was destroying himself. He went through detox a few years ago and moved back to Ardor Creek, to avoid all the temptations of the city and fast paced life, and started to make his amends to those he had hurt. The main person he hurt was Carrie, when he was so nasty to her the last time they had seen each other. He has been clean now for nearly three years and whilst Carrie may have accepted his apology, their relationship has never become what it was in the past.
But Carrie has been holding a huge secret for the last ten years, which she has never told a soul. When a serious illness pulls her happy world apart, she has to reveal her secret and asks Peter for his help. He still loves her, he always has and would do anything for her, but this news comes out of the blue. She may have forgiven him for the past, but she had never let him back into her heart after all the hurt he did to her. He had to leave because of all the pain staying in Ardor Creek represented to him back then, his abusive father, a mother that stayed with his father and even Carrie’s father’s refusal to accept him. He presumed the whole town thought of him in reference to his drunken father and he felt he could never escape that reputation. His demons drove him away from town and he refused to tie himself to that place when he was younger, even if it would have meant he could have the love of his life. It wasn’t enough to keep him there and Carrie had to put up with hurtful words every time they reconnected. She doesn’t know if he will ever really want to settle in town. He has been there whilst his mother was ill, but she died a month ago, and there isn’t really any reason for him to stay. He knows if he returns to the big city, his addictive personality will easily fall back into bad habits, which after a few near death experiences, isn’t something he wants anymore. Carrie is certainly going to make him go through more than a few hoops before she will be convinced he will stick around for ever. Their chemistry together is exactly as strong as it was when they were younger and now they have an even stronger connection between them! It will be hard at times, but love is never easy, it is something that has to be worked at, always. I received an ARC copy of this book from BookSprout and I have freely given my own opinion of the book above.
But Carrie has been holding a huge secret for the last ten years, which she has never told a soul. When a serious illness pulls her happy world apart, she has to reveal her secret and asks Peter for his help. He still loves her, he always has and would do anything for her, but this news comes out of the blue. She may have forgiven him for the past, but she had never let him back into her heart after all the hurt he did to her. He had to leave because of all the pain staying in Ardor Creek represented to him back then, his abusive father, a mother that stayed with his father and even Carrie’s father’s refusal to accept him. He presumed the whole town thought of him in reference to his drunken father and he felt he could never escape that reputation. His demons drove him away from town and he refused to tie himself to that place when he was younger, even if it would have meant he could have the love of his life. It wasn’t enough to keep him there and Carrie had to put up with hurtful words every time they reconnected. She doesn’t know if he will ever really want to settle in town. He has been there whilst his mother was ill, but she died a month ago, and there isn’t really any reason for him to stay. He knows if he returns to the big city, his addictive personality will easily fall back into bad habits, which after a few near death experiences, isn’t something he wants anymore. Carrie is certainly going to make him go through more than a few hoops before she will be convinced he will stick around for ever. Their chemistry together is exactly as strong as it was when they were younger and now they have an even stronger connection between them! It will be hard at times, but love is never easy, it is something that has to be worked at, always. I received an ARC copy of this book from BookSprout and I have freely given my own opinion of the book above.
December 16, 2024
Hero had an abusive father and was the bad boy, heroine was the preacher’s daughter. They dated, fell in love, after college he wanted her to go with him to ny, because he felt uncomfortable in that small town. She refused. He left and came back to her other times trying to persuade her. This is one of those times where I hated the heroine too. Had she really loved him she would have gone with him everywhere since she didn’t have one single reason to stay in that small town. She didn’t even talk to her father anymore. But she was adamant. So both failed, but he had more reasons to leave than she had to stay, he had only bad memories and wanted to make a life for himself. She should have gone with him.
She refused him times and again. She eventually married another man and had two sons. Hero came back and had to be in rehab.
He knew she didn’t want him anymore but he tried to stay near her because he still loves her. Heroine divorced her husband that was a cheater and quite on the abusive side too. Guess what the big secret is. I won’t tell. But her older son needs a kidney transplant and the hero gives him one of his.
He wants the heroine back, she’s afraid he will leave again. The book is not bad, the writing is good and the hero is a changed man. In ny he became an addict and risked his life. He went on like that for a decade. It is quite surprising that he could win his addiction in barely one month and I understand the heroine fear that he will relapse. This often happens especially for people with the hero’s past.
He did not.
But of course I was also disappointed that he had a decade of living a high life( literally) made of women, booze, drugs and money while the heroine only had shitty men. Her husband was shitty, unfaithful and violent, and an ex boyfriend was a shitty one too. Why can’t for once women have a decent man, why? Is the hero, an ex junkie and a man who dumped her and treated her like shit, her only option to be happy?
For once I wished that the heroine married a decent and honest man, they exist, truly.
Sadly is always the same old, he had lot of women and great sex she had only cringy sex with two men. Please, stop this narrative. It’s not like that in real life, thank god, why authors keep writing things like this?
In the end when they reconcile they’re 40, he’s been away for almost two decades to have his fun. No, thanks but no.
She refused him times and again. She eventually married another man and had two sons. Hero came back and had to be in rehab.
He knew she didn’t want him anymore but he tried to stay near her because he still loves her. Heroine divorced her husband that was a cheater and quite on the abusive side too. Guess what the big secret is. I won’t tell. But her older son needs a kidney transplant and the hero gives him one of his.
He wants the heroine back, she’s afraid he will leave again. The book is not bad, the writing is good and the hero is a changed man. In ny he became an addict and risked his life. He went on like that for a decade. It is quite surprising that he could win his addiction in barely one month and I understand the heroine fear that he will relapse. This often happens especially for people with the hero’s past.
He did not.
But of course I was also disappointed that he had a decade of living a high life( literally) made of women, booze, drugs and money while the heroine only had shitty men. Her husband was shitty, unfaithful and violent, and an ex boyfriend was a shitty one too. Why can’t for once women have a decent man, why? Is the hero, an ex junkie and a man who dumped her and treated her like shit, her only option to be happy?
For once I wished that the heroine married a decent and honest man, they exist, truly.
Sadly is always the same old, he had lot of women and great sex she had only cringy sex with two men. Please, stop this narrative. It’s not like that in real life, thank god, why authors keep writing things like this?
In the end when they reconcile they’re 40, he’s been away for almost two decades to have his fun. No, thanks but no.
November 1, 2022
I listened to the audible version of this book - and let me say right off... if the narrator/s are not good it ruins the whole story. In this case, the narrators (a man and a woman) were FANTASTIC. They altered their voices perfectly so that the listener could tell if it was a narrative being spoken or a dialog being spoken. Lots of emotion in their speech and they even did 2 little boys' voices which also sounded perfect. This makes for a very enjoyable story to listen to. I am not sure it would have been as heart-rendering if I had read it. (thanks to the narrators).
For the story: It "tells" the story of Peter and Carrie who had "fallen in love" at the age of 7 in the small town of Ardor Creek. Later in life, Carrie wanted to stay in Andor Creek and live a "simple life", while Peter wanted to go to New York and live the "big city" life. They quarrel, he leaves, and for 7 years, they are not in touch at all. After he leaves, Carrie marries, but later divorces. Peter gets in with a high-powered investment company, making tons of money and then gets involved with drugs and drinking. He kicks both habits in rehab and returns to Andor Creek to care for his mother - and of course, meets up with Carrie again. Carrie's oldest son needs a liver transplant and... guess who it the father? This starts the ball rolling - Peter wants Carrie back NOW since he has changed and she insists on waiting and seeing "how things go" since he left her the first time. and she felt she couldn't trust him to stay around.
My review: I REALLY enjoyed this story a lot - it was hard to stop listening! It was a pleasant change to have a story about 2 "normal" people just trying to live and get by and make things work instead of a billionaire trying to convince a donut shop girl to love him or 'hot sexy guy meets hot, sexy girl and saves the day", etc. The storyline in this book could actually happen in real life so it was nice to see how they dealt with the many issues they had. I think Peter changed more than Carrie - she kind of changed him to see things "her way" and he finally figured out that maybe her way was better than his and he finds out that he does want the 'simple life" and not the chaos of the big city life and likes "her way" of doing things!. I tend to agree with Carrie. I think I would have done the same things she did and for the same reasons. Trust is a major part in a relationship and getting burned a time or two will instill that in you to be prepared for the next time. It is also about how Carrie and Peter dealt with the 2 boys and their accepting him as their father and Peter learning how to be a Dad and that it isn't all fun and games. Also, Peter has to learn about what a family means - the good and bad, the happy and the sad and figure out if that is really what he wants for his life. If you want to read a book that you can identify with as an actual person and still enjoy it, this book is for you. I won't give a spoiler and say how it ends as that is part of the understanding and emotion of the book - to see how they do or don't get through the many problems and is it all worth a "happily ever after" ending. ... or not
FYI: It does have a lot of graphic sexual scenes and related comments.
My opinion: They are more graphic than necessary and slide over the borderline of "to much", that it almost overtook the story as being the "main objective". However, you can skip past them as I did. Reading it doesn't enhance the story nor does not reading it weaken the story. It is just whether you want to read all the sex scenes or not - and there are a lot of them.
For the story: It "tells" the story of Peter and Carrie who had "fallen in love" at the age of 7 in the small town of Ardor Creek. Later in life, Carrie wanted to stay in Andor Creek and live a "simple life", while Peter wanted to go to New York and live the "big city" life. They quarrel, he leaves, and for 7 years, they are not in touch at all. After he leaves, Carrie marries, but later divorces. Peter gets in with a high-powered investment company, making tons of money and then gets involved with drugs and drinking. He kicks both habits in rehab and returns to Andor Creek to care for his mother - and of course, meets up with Carrie again. Carrie's oldest son needs a liver transplant and... guess who it the father? This starts the ball rolling - Peter wants Carrie back NOW since he has changed and she insists on waiting and seeing "how things go" since he left her the first time. and she felt she couldn't trust him to stay around.
My review: I REALLY enjoyed this story a lot - it was hard to stop listening! It was a pleasant change to have a story about 2 "normal" people just trying to live and get by and make things work instead of a billionaire trying to convince a donut shop girl to love him or 'hot sexy guy meets hot, sexy girl and saves the day", etc. The storyline in this book could actually happen in real life so it was nice to see how they dealt with the many issues they had. I think Peter changed more than Carrie - she kind of changed him to see things "her way" and he finally figured out that maybe her way was better than his and he finds out that he does want the 'simple life" and not the chaos of the big city life and likes "her way" of doing things!. I tend to agree with Carrie. I think I would have done the same things she did and for the same reasons. Trust is a major part in a relationship and getting burned a time or two will instill that in you to be prepared for the next time. It is also about how Carrie and Peter dealt with the 2 boys and their accepting him as their father and Peter learning how to be a Dad and that it isn't all fun and games. Also, Peter has to learn about what a family means - the good and bad, the happy and the sad and figure out if that is really what he wants for his life. If you want to read a book that you can identify with as an actual person and still enjoy it, this book is for you. I won't give a spoiler and say how it ends as that is part of the understanding and emotion of the book - to see how they do or don't get through the many problems and is it all worth a "happily ever after" ending. ... or not
FYI: It does have a lot of graphic sexual scenes and related comments.
My opinion: They are more graphic than necessary and slide over the borderline of "to much", that it almost overtook the story as being the "main objective". However, you can skip past them as I did. Reading it doesn't enhance the story nor does not reading it weaken the story. It is just whether you want to read all the sex scenes or not - and there are a lot of them.
October 2, 2024
An amazing plot with an unexpected turn. The twist always seems to pop out when you least expect it.
As with the previous installment in the "Ardor Creek" series, this second installment is a lovely second chance romance with equally lovely writing. The novel attracted me from the beginning and kept it throughout the book since the plots are intriguing and have a lot of heart. In the first book, "Hearts Reclaimed," we meet the two main protagonists; in subsequent books, we follow a new couple as they navigate life in Ardor Creek, a sleepy Pennsylvania village. The characters are so believable and easy to relate to.
Neither the tiny town life nor his new love, Carrie Longwood, were enough for Peter Stratford, so he sought to leave Ardor Creek. Their friendship dated back to their childhoods; she was the daughter of the preacher. Despite Carrie's success in Ardor Creek, she is now divorced from the guy she married despite Peter's efforts to steer her toward a different man. She emerged with two fantastic boys, so she has no qualms about it. Peter got himself into a lot of trouble after years of living the high life. Returning to Ardor Creek, he is now working with Scott Grillo and attempting to heal fences with Carrie after cleaning up his act. It has always been her, but now he knows she is his soulmate. However, she struggles with trust difficulties. He has once broken her heart, so there's no guarantee he won't do it again. A choice that might alter the course of her life forces her to divulge a secret that no one else is aware of.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
As with the previous installment in the "Ardor Creek" series, this second installment is a lovely second chance romance with equally lovely writing. The novel attracted me from the beginning and kept it throughout the book since the plots are intriguing and have a lot of heart. In the first book, "Hearts Reclaimed," we meet the two main protagonists; in subsequent books, we follow a new couple as they navigate life in Ardor Creek, a sleepy Pennsylvania village. The characters are so believable and easy to relate to.
Neither the tiny town life nor his new love, Carrie Longwood, were enough for Peter Stratford, so he sought to leave Ardor Creek. Their friendship dated back to their childhoods; she was the daughter of the preacher. Despite Carrie's success in Ardor Creek, she is now divorced from the guy she married despite Peter's efforts to steer her toward a different man. She emerged with two fantastic boys, so she has no qualms about it. Peter got himself into a lot of trouble after years of living the high life. Returning to Ardor Creek, he is now working with Scott Grillo and attempting to heal fences with Carrie after cleaning up his act. It has always been her, but now he knows she is his soulmate. However, she struggles with trust difficulties. He has once broken her heart, so there's no guarantee he won't do it again. A choice that might alter the course of her life forces her to divulge a secret that no one else is aware of.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
October 19, 2024
Unlike all of the other books in the Ardor Creek series, Illusions Unveiled was an uncomfortable read and difficult to believe in a happy ending. Carrie Longwood and Peter Stratford fell in love when they were seven and Carrie thought they were in love until the day that Peter left her behind to make something of himself. He made himself into an addict, but he came back one last time, only to yell at her and scream at her that she needs to marry another man. But right before he leaves, he has her in bed again. At this point, I'm so tired of the cruelty that came out of his mouth, that I didn't care if they ever saw each other again, let alone have a happy ending. Long story short.....Carrie has two sons (spoiler...one of them is his from that "last time"), a messy marriage and a divorce on her hands when Peter comes back. He knows that Carrie will never forgive him for how horribly he treated her, and she shouldn't. He seemed to want to be together and he loved her little boys (he did find out that Sebastian was his) yet he keeps things from her, goes behind her back to close big deals and gets upset when she kicks him out of the house for putting everybody else first....again! Yeah, I'm just not feeling it for this couple and I really hope that Carrie can find someone who deserves her.
The incredible Kai Kennicott and Wen Ross do an amazing job portraying the characters, bringing them to life and humanizing them with their emotions, attitude and personality. They do more than giving their characters their voices, they fall into the roles and become the character.
The incredible Kai Kennicott and Wen Ross do an amazing job portraying the characters, bringing them to life and humanizing them with their emotions, attitude and personality. They do more than giving their characters their voices, they fall into the roles and become the character.
September 11, 2022
My opinion on this book is one of indifference. I’ve struggled to find anything I like or dislike about it, and I can’t think of anything major. I found it unbearably slow, but I think that was to do with listening to it at 2.0x speed on Authors Direct, as opposed to my usual 2.55x speed. Kids made an appearance in the story and I loathe those little cretins with all my being, but they weren’t a constant.
While Peter is an ex junkie, I knew the story would have a happy ending, so there was never any worry that he’d go back to his old life, even though the story hinted that he could. Carrie is believable as a single mother who has put up with terrible men all her life, I just don’t find her interesting as a person.
As far as writing goes, it was written as well as any other Ayla Asher novel, it’s just not my thing.
As for the narration, I’d say both narrators did an incredible job. As always, they bring the characters they narrate to life and play off of each other very well.
NOTE: This copy was provided to me free of charge as a digital review copy. The opinions stated in this review are mine and mine alone, I was not paid or requested to give this book a certain rating, suggestion, or approval.
While Peter is an ex junkie, I knew the story would have a happy ending, so there was never any worry that he’d go back to his old life, even though the story hinted that he could. Carrie is believable as a single mother who has put up with terrible men all her life, I just don’t find her interesting as a person.
As far as writing goes, it was written as well as any other Ayla Asher novel, it’s just not my thing.
As for the narration, I’d say both narrators did an incredible job. As always, they bring the characters they narrate to life and play off of each other very well.
NOTE: This copy was provided to me free of charge as a digital review copy. The opinions stated in this review are mine and mine alone, I was not paid or requested to give this book a certain rating, suggestion, or approval.
January 31, 2023
Peter Strafford has been in love with Carrie Longwood since he was 7 years old and she comforted after he was hit on the neck during a dodgeball game. Their love was doomed almost from the beginning. She was the preacher's daughter filled with kindness and sunshine and was loved by all. He was the son of a man who used Peter's arm for an ashtray and beat him until Peter grew large enough to fight back.
Carrie never wanted to move from Ardor Creek. She wanted to raise a family there. Peter couldn't wait to leave town and no way did he ever want kids. So they parted ways.
Peter moved to Manhattan and made partner at at investment firm. But he was still chasing after something and became involved with alcohol and drugs. He's now returned and has been clean for 3 years.
He'd love to start to start over with Carrie and her 2 sons but he's failed her time after time. How can she think it would be different this time? But this time there's so much more at stake. She's kept a secret from him and he's the only one who can help in her hour of need. Will he step up to help? Can she finally truly forgive him for the past?
I received a copy of this book from the author via Booksprout. I am voluntarily leaving this review.
Carrie never wanted to move from Ardor Creek. She wanted to raise a family there. Peter couldn't wait to leave town and no way did he ever want kids. So they parted ways.
Peter moved to Manhattan and made partner at at investment firm. But he was still chasing after something and became involved with alcohol and drugs. He's now returned and has been clean for 3 years.
He'd love to start to start over with Carrie and her 2 sons but he's failed her time after time. How can she think it would be different this time? But this time there's so much more at stake. She's kept a secret from him and he's the only one who can help in her hour of need. Will he step up to help? Can she finally truly forgive him for the past?
I received a copy of this book from the author via Booksprout. I am voluntarily leaving this review.
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