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What's Not True
2022 Best Book Awards Finalist: Literary and Women's Fiction.
With the court date set for her divorce and the future she'd planned with a younger man presumably kaput, Kassie O'Callaghan shifts attention to reviving her stalled marketing career. But that goal gets complicated when she unexpectedly rendezvous with her former lover in Paris. After a chance meeting with a colleague and a stroll along Pont Neuf, Kassie receives two compelling proposals. Can she possibly accept them both?
Kassie's decision process screeches to a halt when her soon-to-be ex-husband has a heart attack, forcing her to fly home to Boston. There, she confronts his conniving and deceitful fiancée—a woman who wants not just a ring on her finger but everything that belongs to Kassie. In the ensuing battle to protect what's legally and rightfully hers, Kassie discovers that sometimes it's what's not true that can set you free.
With the court date set for her divorce and the future she'd planned with a younger man presumably kaput, Kassie O'Callaghan shifts attention to reviving her stalled marketing career. But that goal gets complicated when she unexpectedly rendezvous with her former lover in Paris. After a chance meeting with a colleague and a stroll along Pont Neuf, Kassie receives two compelling proposals. Can she possibly accept them both?
Kassie's decision process screeches to a halt when her soon-to-be ex-husband has a heart attack, forcing her to fly home to Boston. There, she confronts his conniving and deceitful fiancée—a woman who wants not just a ring on her finger but everything that belongs to Kassie. In the ensuing battle to protect what's legally and rightfully hers, Kassie discovers that sometimes it's what's not true that can set you free.
336 pages, Paperback
First published August 24, 2021
24 people are currently reading
6004 people want to read
About the author
Valerie Taylor
5 books345 followersValerie Taylor lives in Connecticut and considers herself a typical "average Jane." She might remind you of the reclusive neighbor who fancies herself a novelist. Unlike many of her peers whom she admires, she does NOT have a degree in literature. But she is the award-winning author of the romantic comedy trilogy: What's Not SAID, What's Not TRUE, What's Not LOST. The roots of those three novels, as well as the first two books in the Venus Bixby Mystery series—A WHALE OF A MURDER and SWITCHED AT DEATH—most likely took hold during her early years watching Carol Burnett, Jack Benny, Red Skelton, and The Twilight Zone. Her love of oldies music stems from hours listening and dancing to Elvis Presley and The Beatles, and being in the Bobby Darin fan club.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 93 reviews
January 24, 2023
Valerie Taylor, Author of “What’s Not True” has written a memorable, thought-provoking, and intriguing sequel to “What’s Not Said”. “What’s Not True” can be read as a stand-alone, but I recommend that you read both books. The Genres for this novel are Domestic Fiction, Women’s Fiction, and Romance. The timeline for this story is set in the present and goes to the past when it pertains to the characters or events. The author describes her colorful and dramatic characters as complex and complicated. There are betrayals, and complicated relationships, as well as twists and turns.
Kassie is waiting for her divorce to be final from Mike. She is trying to concentrate on her career and is trying to forget the younger man, Chris, that she had a relationship. Fate does bring Kassie and Chris back together in Paris. Kassie has done well and has a business relationship to consider as well. All may have to wait when Kassie finds out her husband has had a heart attack, and she is forced to go home.
I didn’t want to put the book down and kept reading to find out what was going on. Valerie Taylor has written a captivating novel that I highly recommend to other readers. I hope that there will be the third book in the series.
Kassie is waiting for her divorce to be final from Mike. She is trying to concentrate on her career and is trying to forget the younger man, Chris, that she had a relationship. Fate does bring Kassie and Chris back together in Paris. Kassie has done well and has a business relationship to consider as well. All may have to wait when Kassie finds out her husband has had a heart attack, and she is forced to go home.
I didn’t want to put the book down and kept reading to find out what was going on. Valerie Taylor has written a captivating novel that I highly recommend to other readers. I hope that there will be the third book in the series.
September 9, 2021
Valerie Taylor is back with a highly anticipated stand alone sequel to What’s Left Unsaid.
What’s Not True is a compelling and satisfying read full of heart, complex family dynamics, and a truly engaging women’s fiction written with such gusto. The characters are enjoyable to read and the intricate web of secrets, infidelity, and family drama will keep those fingers turning.
What’s Not True is a compelling and satisfying read full of heart, complex family dynamics, and a truly engaging women’s fiction written with such gusto. The characters are enjoyable to read and the intricate web of secrets, infidelity, and family drama will keep those fingers turning.
November 14, 2021
I was so happy to pick up Valerie Taylor’ sequel to her debut novel, WHAT’S NOT SAID, because I couldn’t wait to see what happened to the protagonist, Kassie O’Callaghan, and the characters who surrounded her. And I’m equally happy that there is another “What’s Not...” book in the pipeline. These characters stay with you. It speaks to Taylor’s skill as a writer, that even the most conniving of the characters still have redeeming features, and that the reader finds herself sometimes rooting for Mike, Kassie’s almost-ex-husband — even though he’s been a jerk—and sometimes wanting to yell at Kassie: “What were you thinking???” The plot is compelling and the ending satisfying, and it’s so much fun to read!
September 1, 2021
This is my first book by this author. While it's #2 in a series, I read it as a stand alone and loved it just the same. You might want to keep a scorecard when it comes to Mike and his antics. His soon to be ex wife, Kassie is no innocent wallflower either. This book will keep you turning the pages to see what happens next. Great story that keeps you on your toes!
August 19, 2021
"I’m having an affair with my husband's son"- Kassie O'Callaghan
What's Not True follows up immediately after its predecessor What's Not Said as its female protagonist Kassie O' Callaghan tries to answer the question, "Can I have love and a career?"
Valerie has done an amazing job of spinning an interwoven tale of forbidden love, marriage, infidelity, pregnancy, and family. I appreciated the many iterations of relationships from that of adoptive parents vs. biological parents, marriage vs. divorced, faithful vs. unfaithful.
Kassie is stereotypical- "I will put your needs above my own" type woman who has realized that at the age of fifty, maybe she should start living for herself? While her divorce from Mike, her husband of thirty years means signals the end of one chapter, two new opportunities on the horizon can seriously alter Kassie's future.
One of the things I enjoyed the most is that Kassie's love life is no fairy tale but rather a realistic and honest view of the insecurities that come from loving a younger man and the silent but constant pain of her impending divorce.
As if the soap opera of a love triangle between Kassie, Mike, and Chris(son of Mike) isn't enough, the story also follows the growing relationship between Mike and Karen (who happens to be Chris's biological mother) and Charlie and Sarah Gaines (Chris's adoptive parents) who just happen to be college friends of Mike and Karen.
I felt a sense of poetic justice within this book, if only because I felt like Mike got what he deserved. He enjoyed a loving faithful marriage to Kassie, a caring woman whom he cheated on, so it seems only right that he gets a Karen (haha) to use him for everything besides love.
All the relationships within this book are far from perfect, which adds to the realism that life isn't always black and white, but a nice grey in between.
What's Not True by Valerie Taylor was honest, raw, and powerful. I truly believe Valerie did an amazing job in portraying the hardships of marriage, infidelity, pregnancy, and family.
Thank you to the author Valerie Taylor and NetGalley for providing me with an arc in exchange for my review.
What's Not True follows up immediately after its predecessor What's Not Said as its female protagonist Kassie O' Callaghan tries to answer the question, "Can I have love and a career?"
Valerie has done an amazing job of spinning an interwoven tale of forbidden love, marriage, infidelity, pregnancy, and family. I appreciated the many iterations of relationships from that of adoptive parents vs. biological parents, marriage vs. divorced, faithful vs. unfaithful.
Kassie is stereotypical- "I will put your needs above my own" type woman who has realized that at the age of fifty, maybe she should start living for herself? While her divorce from Mike, her husband of thirty years means signals the end of one chapter, two new opportunities on the horizon can seriously alter Kassie's future.
One of the things I enjoyed the most is that Kassie's love life is no fairy tale but rather a realistic and honest view of the insecurities that come from loving a younger man and the silent but constant pain of her impending divorce.
As if the soap opera of a love triangle between Kassie, Mike, and Chris(son of Mike) isn't enough, the story also follows the growing relationship between Mike and Karen (who happens to be Chris's biological mother) and Charlie and Sarah Gaines (Chris's adoptive parents) who just happen to be college friends of Mike and Karen.
I felt a sense of poetic justice within this book, if only because I felt like Mike got what he deserved. He enjoyed a loving faithful marriage to Kassie, a caring woman whom he cheated on, so it seems only right that he gets a Karen (haha) to use him for everything besides love.
All the relationships within this book are far from perfect, which adds to the realism that life isn't always black and white, but a nice grey in between.
What's Not True by Valerie Taylor was honest, raw, and powerful. I truly believe Valerie did an amazing job in portraying the hardships of marriage, infidelity, pregnancy, and family.
Thank you to the author Valerie Taylor and NetGalley for providing me with an arc in exchange for my review.
August 13, 2021
Book Review: What’s not True by Valerie Taylor
Title: What’s Not True
Author: Valerie Taylor
Length: 269 Pages
Publisher: She Writes Press
Publication Date: 24 August 2021
Genre: Romance, Drama, Fiction
My Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐/5
Summary:
The book is a sequel to the not “What’s Not Said” and follows the journey of Kassie O’Callaghan, Mike Ricci, Karen and Chris. The book is an account of happenings following the previous novels revelations
My Review:
I thank Netgalley and the Publisher for providing me with an ARC to read and review this novel. All the views stated are my own.
To start with I wish I had read the prequel to this book which I surely am going to do. Book can be read standalone too as it still gives summary and glimpses of happenings of the prequel making you aware of the scenarios leading to this one.
I loved the protagonist Kassie and most definitely abhorred Karen for her cunningness. Chris is adorable for pampering Kassie. I loved the fact that the character traits are not changed during the course of the story and remains as they are. Mike has shades of grey which suited the book. Overall, the characters are believable except for Chris who is too good to be true. Maybe I need to read the prequel to understand him better.
The book is very slow till half way. Post that it picked up pace. I took almost 30 days to complete this book as I felt it dragged a lot initially. However, in the second part of the book, the scenes were justified. I like stories which are fast paced but this book is slow paced one but I won’t complain as the story is good.
I absolutely loved the climax and in my heart was praying for this ending. The final chapter does leave you satisfied and give you peace. The ending also paves a way for another sequel. We can wait for author to come up with an equally intriguing sequel to this one.
Overall verdict is I liked this book. Will recommend the book to those who can enjoy slow paced books with great intriguing storyline
Title: What’s Not True
Author: Valerie Taylor
Length: 269 Pages
Publisher: She Writes Press
Publication Date: 24 August 2021
Genre: Romance, Drama, Fiction
My Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐/5
Summary:
The book is a sequel to the not “What’s Not Said” and follows the journey of Kassie O’Callaghan, Mike Ricci, Karen and Chris. The book is an account of happenings following the previous novels revelations
My Review:
I thank Netgalley and the Publisher for providing me with an ARC to read and review this novel. All the views stated are my own.
To start with I wish I had read the prequel to this book which I surely am going to do. Book can be read standalone too as it still gives summary and glimpses of happenings of the prequel making you aware of the scenarios leading to this one.
I loved the protagonist Kassie and most definitely abhorred Karen for her cunningness. Chris is adorable for pampering Kassie. I loved the fact that the character traits are not changed during the course of the story and remains as they are. Mike has shades of grey which suited the book. Overall, the characters are believable except for Chris who is too good to be true. Maybe I need to read the prequel to understand him better.
The book is very slow till half way. Post that it picked up pace. I took almost 30 days to complete this book as I felt it dragged a lot initially. However, in the second part of the book, the scenes were justified. I like stories which are fast paced but this book is slow paced one but I won’t complain as the story is good.
I absolutely loved the climax and in my heart was praying for this ending. The final chapter does leave you satisfied and give you peace. The ending also paves a way for another sequel. We can wait for author to come up with an equally intriguing sequel to this one.
Overall verdict is I liked this book. Will recommend the book to those who can enjoy slow paced books with great intriguing storyline
June 23, 2021
I am grateful to have had the opportunity to read an Advanced Reader Copy of What’s Not True by Valerie Taylor. It comes out officially on August 24, 2021 and I highly recommend this sequel to What’s Not Said! Reading What’s Not True felt like reconnecting with old friends after getting to know the characters so well in book one. Kassie even carries her mother with her in such a beautiful way still as the character made her presence known during important moments. This time our friends brought us with them on a trip to beautiful Paris! I took French classes throughout high school and had fun recognizing some of the French words that were sprinkled into the dialogue! I really enjoyed how the new villain of this story made me feel more protective of the other characters, no matter their flaws. I loved book one, and somehow loved book 2 even more! Aside from the wonderful story, I also appreciate the nuggets of wisdom I will be able to always reflect on after reading this book like, when you say nothing you are actually saying more than you realize and keep your eye on the end goal. Book Club-Hosted by Heather Skinner voted in What’s Not Said as our May 2021 book of the month read and What’s Not True proves to be another great book to read in a book club setting with the discussion guide in the back. I do not recommend looking at the discussion guide before reading to avoid spoilers. There is also the continuing trademark of Valerie Taylor including a recommended Spotify playlist at the end to compliment the reading experience and I look forward to being reminded of the book each time I hear those songs on the radio! I am so excited to see what will happen next in this series and the next books Valerie Taylor will release for us to relish as well after that! –Heather Skinner
October 12, 2021
MY THOUGHTS ON THIS BOOK
My thoughts when reading this book were, ‘Oh what a tangled web we weave’ because Kassie’s story is just that. He life choices leads her into one bad issue after another. When she finally decides she is going to divorce her husband, she had the bomb dropped on her that her husband has a serious illness, no divorce wouldn’t look so well right now. Kassie is so back and forth with everything happening in her life, it’s hard to keep up with what she will do next and what the next issue will be. Following her story is interesting, that’s one thing for sure. There were lots of emotions flying around, lots of sadness that will make you shed a tear, then I would get frustrated at Kassie for being so wishy washy at times. For some reason, I just couldn’t connect with Kassie. Not to say the author didn’t do a good job creating characters, in fact the character were wonderfully created and I enjoyed their development as the story unfolded. The setting and the scenes were vivid and detailed.
What’s Not True is a pretty quick read, I wanted to get to the last page and see how it ended. And it was a surprising bombshell dropped at the end. Something I didn’t see coming. If you enjoy contemporary book with a pretty completed story, you will enjoy this one.
A special thanks to the author/publisher for a copy of this book. I am not required to write a positive review, the opinions here are mine alone. I am disclosing this with my review in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255
My thoughts when reading this book were, ‘Oh what a tangled web we weave’ because Kassie’s story is just that. He life choices leads her into one bad issue after another. When she finally decides she is going to divorce her husband, she had the bomb dropped on her that her husband has a serious illness, no divorce wouldn’t look so well right now. Kassie is so back and forth with everything happening in her life, it’s hard to keep up with what she will do next and what the next issue will be. Following her story is interesting, that’s one thing for sure. There were lots of emotions flying around, lots of sadness that will make you shed a tear, then I would get frustrated at Kassie for being so wishy washy at times. For some reason, I just couldn’t connect with Kassie. Not to say the author didn’t do a good job creating characters, in fact the character were wonderfully created and I enjoyed their development as the story unfolded. The setting and the scenes were vivid and detailed.
What’s Not True is a pretty quick read, I wanted to get to the last page and see how it ended. And it was a surprising bombshell dropped at the end. Something I didn’t see coming. If you enjoy contemporary book with a pretty completed story, you will enjoy this one.
A special thanks to the author/publisher for a copy of this book. I am not required to write a positive review, the opinions here are mine alone. I am disclosing this with my review in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255
September 14, 2021
Taylor is back and better than the first with this sequel to What's Not Said. I absolutely loved WNS and knew I couldn't wait to get my hands on this one. And, let me tell you, I flew through this one and loved every second of this page turner!
Taylor brings Mike and Kassie back as they near the finalization of their divorce. I felt myself once again being drawn to the drama that is their life. There were ups, there were downs, there were new revelations, and secrets, revealed. Things just might not be what they thought.
Following their story once again has me falling in love with these characters all over again. I felt every confused emotion, every loving emotion, every unsure moment that Kassie and Mike both felt. Taylor completely made me feel as if I was right there in the center, once again.
This is most definitely a 5 star worthy novel. It's page turning, heart capturing, breath taking. While this could be considered a stand alone, I do not recommend reading it as such. I highly recommend reading this behind What's Not Said, to fully experience the beautiful, captivating writing style of Valerie Taylor, and these beautiful characters.
* I received a complimentary copy of this book from Author/Publisher and was under no obligation to post a review, positive or negative.*
Taylor brings Mike and Kassie back as they near the finalization of their divorce. I felt myself once again being drawn to the drama that is their life. There were ups, there were downs, there were new revelations, and secrets, revealed. Things just might not be what they thought.
Following their story once again has me falling in love with these characters all over again. I felt every confused emotion, every loving emotion, every unsure moment that Kassie and Mike both felt. Taylor completely made me feel as if I was right there in the center, once again.
This is most definitely a 5 star worthy novel. It's page turning, heart capturing, breath taking. While this could be considered a stand alone, I do not recommend reading it as such. I highly recommend reading this behind What's Not Said, to fully experience the beautiful, captivating writing style of Valerie Taylor, and these beautiful characters.
* I received a complimentary copy of this book from Author/Publisher and was under no obligation to post a review, positive or negative.*
August 19, 2021
With her divorce from Mike almost finalized and her affair with his son Chris over, Kassie sets out to focus on her career. (𝘺𝘦𝘢𝘩, 𝘺𝘰𝘶’𝘭𝘭 𝘸𝘢𝘯𝘵 𝘵𝘰 𝘳𝘦𝘢𝘥 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘧𝘪𝘳𝘴𝘵 𝘣𝘰𝘰𝘬 𝘧𝘰𝘳 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘨𝘰𝘰𝘥𝘴 𝘰𝘯 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘧𝘢𝘵𝘩𝘦𝘳-𝘴𝘰𝘯 𝘵𝘩𝘪𝘯𝘨)!
That is until she and Chris meet up in Paris and start up all over again, and she receives a great career offer as well.
Meanwhile, Karen, Chris’s biological mom, tries hard to make sure she and Mike get a happily ever after. But people, including Mike, keep slipping up and comparing her to Kassie, and it’s making her mad. Karen is determined to weasel her way into Kassie’s place and kick Kassie to the curb.
Mike’s health becomes an issue once again, causing Chris and Kassie to come back from Paris. Now Karen’s claws are really out when she learns Kassie is back with her son and, yes, technically, still Mike’s wife.
If this sounds like a lot of drama, it ain't the half of it. In 𝐖𝐡𝐚𝐭’𝐬 𝐍𝐨𝐭 𝐓𝐫𝐮𝐞, Valerie Taylor masterfully intertwines characters and storylines with twisted family dynamics and many romantic dalliances. While I think the first book delved into deeper topics, the ending of this one has me very excited for book three.
Thank you to @suzyapprovedbooktours @shewritespress and @valerieetaylor for an invitation to the tour and a signed book.
That is until she and Chris meet up in Paris and start up all over again, and she receives a great career offer as well.
Meanwhile, Karen, Chris’s biological mom, tries hard to make sure she and Mike get a happily ever after. But people, including Mike, keep slipping up and comparing her to Kassie, and it’s making her mad. Karen is determined to weasel her way into Kassie’s place and kick Kassie to the curb.
Mike’s health becomes an issue once again, causing Chris and Kassie to come back from Paris. Now Karen’s claws are really out when she learns Kassie is back with her son and, yes, technically, still Mike’s wife.
If this sounds like a lot of drama, it ain't the half of it. In 𝐖𝐡𝐚𝐭’𝐬 𝐍𝐨𝐭 𝐓𝐫𝐮𝐞, Valerie Taylor masterfully intertwines characters and storylines with twisted family dynamics and many romantic dalliances. While I think the first book delved into deeper topics, the ending of this one has me very excited for book three.
Thank you to @suzyapprovedbooktours @shewritespress and @valerieetaylor for an invitation to the tour and a signed book.
August 25, 2021
What's Not True by Valerie Taylor is a story of lies and family dramas.
This is Kassie O'Callaghan story, and her messy journey to have it all. Kassie is waiting for her divorce to be final from Mike and is focusing on her career while trying to forget Chris, a younger man that she had a relationship.
She is working really hard every day till late at night aiming for more new clients and revenue. She is also volunteering to read to kids and work with animals and is trying to keep herself busy.
Kassie travels to Paris and while there she is given a business proposal and connects with Chris again and received another life-changing proposal. But she has to put a hold on both proposals and go back home to Mike who has a heart attack.
The story gets even more drama and excitement. I read this book in one sitting and I loved it.
I enjoyed the storyline with all its romantic relationships and twisted family interactions. The characters were perfectly chosen, I couldn’t really tell who was good or bad.
Many Thank to Suzy Approved Book Tours for having me on this tour.
This is Kassie O'Callaghan story, and her messy journey to have it all. Kassie is waiting for her divorce to be final from Mike and is focusing on her career while trying to forget Chris, a younger man that she had a relationship.
She is working really hard every day till late at night aiming for more new clients and revenue. She is also volunteering to read to kids and work with animals and is trying to keep herself busy.
Kassie travels to Paris and while there she is given a business proposal and connects with Chris again and received another life-changing proposal. But she has to put a hold on both proposals and go back home to Mike who has a heart attack.
The story gets even more drama and excitement. I read this book in one sitting and I loved it.
I enjoyed the storyline with all its romantic relationships and twisted family interactions. The characters were perfectly chosen, I couldn’t really tell who was good or bad.
Many Thank to Suzy Approved Book Tours for having me on this tour.
August 20, 2021
What's Not True.
By Valerie Taylor.
So this Book Picks up right were
[What's Not Said] Left off. I highly recommend reading that one first.
I personally Love both books.
Mike...The Husband
Recently received his transplant. The Divorce is in the works. Life can move forward. The new Love From the past.... is more than Mike ever dreamed of. Karen the old- new Love wants to clean out every thing that reminds her of Mike's soon to be Ex..
Kassie....The Wife.
While in pairs, working on her career, but a proposal or two comes up...life can be wonderful.
But also Complicating at the same time. While news from back home . Makes the Paris trip short.
Things change for kassie.
I want to say Oh so much more.
But I Never Spoil.... books ....
So Grab your copy .. Coming August 24th 2021... so Good...
Thank you. Valerie Taylor 🌹
By Valerie Taylor.
So this Book Picks up right were
[What's Not Said] Left off. I highly recommend reading that one first.
I personally Love both books.
Mike...The Husband
Recently received his transplant. The Divorce is in the works. Life can move forward. The new Love From the past.... is more than Mike ever dreamed of. Karen the old- new Love wants to clean out every thing that reminds her of Mike's soon to be Ex..
Kassie....The Wife.
While in pairs, working on her career, but a proposal or two comes up...life can be wonderful.
But also Complicating at the same time. While news from back home . Makes the Paris trip short.
Things change for kassie.
I want to say Oh so much more.
But I Never Spoil.... books ....
So Grab your copy .. Coming August 24th 2021... so Good...
Thank you. Valerie Taylor 🌹
December 5, 2021
I was so happy to be gifted Valerie Taylor's sequel to her debut novel, WHAT’S NOT SAID. I couldn’t wait to see what happened next to Kassie O’Callaghan. I’m happy that there is another “What’s Not...” book coming out soon. This book feels like you are front row in a soap opera as it has people you will be rooting for and those that you can't stand. Sometimes you will be laughing and sometimes you will want to slap Mike up side the head and be like really why would you do that? Chris seems like one person who is too good to be true as he is so kind, understanding, patient....Can Kassie and Chris make a relationship work? Guess we will have to read on in next book to find out.
August 8, 2021
In this awesome continuation of the What's Not series, this book is all about Kassie's quest for happiness and the complications that come along with that. Just like the first book, What's Not Said, this book reads like it's own little soap opera. It's wildly entertaining!
Kassie is still going through with the divorce and takes a trip to Paris to reconnect with an old flame. Reading through this made me feel like I was on the trip right along with them. Such a great sequel! I may have enjoyed this one even more than the first 🤫
Kassie is still going through with the divorce and takes a trip to Paris to reconnect with an old flame. Reading through this made me feel like I was on the trip right along with them. Such a great sequel! I may have enjoyed this one even more than the first 🤫
August 22, 2021
**Was given an ARC by the publisher via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review**
If you enjoyed the first book in this series, you will definitely enjoy book #2. Don't read this book if you haven't read the first one. FYI, there's a final book coming out to end this saga. I can't wait!! This us a long, detailed review, but I couldn't help myself!!
It's been a year since Kassie gave up on her dreams of a life with Chris. She selflessly helped her soon to be ex-husband, Mike, find a kidney donor, reconnected him with his first love, Karen, and the baby she gave up for adoption to her best friends in college. That's when Kassie got the shock of her life when she found out that the same man that she'd been having an affair with for the past 5 years, the one she was head over heels in love with, and was planning a life with, was Mike's biological son. So Kassie did the honorable thing and walked away. She moved out of their home, right into Annie's condo.
Kassie buried herself in her job. She worked late every night to make up for putting everyone else first, but her career. She wants to make partner. With her bringing in new clients and more revenue, she thinks she has a chance. Other than working herself to death, she spends time volunteering--reading to kids, working with animals, etc. Anything to keep her mind busy.
When Annie suggested they go back to Venice where she first met Chris to go get closure and move on, Kassie's says no. But after talking to her therapist, she realizes it's the only way that she can move on and enjoy the memories they once had.
Kassie and Annie arrive separately due to their schedules, but she never expected her best friend to conspire with Chris. Kassie was having a drink waiting for Annie at the same restaurant that she met Chris 5 years ago, when Chris shows up surprising her. They end up in bed that night and the following morning, Chris told her they were going to Paris, to have a new beginning in a new city.
When they arrive, Kassie has a letter from her boss, Tom, asking her to meet with the managing director of their Paris branch. Not knowing if what's going on between them is a fling in a foreign country or not, she just goes with it.
Meanwhile back home in Boston, life with Karen isn't what Mike thought it would be. He misses his wife and the life they had. He knows that he took her for granted and he regrets that. Karen uses her kidney donation as a tool for manipulation. So Mike lets her have his credit cards to shut down a marriage proposal; he's not even divorced yet. Secretly, she's looking for the big cash payout. Knowing that as his wife that she'll own the house, business, and bank accounts, she's bidding her time.
Since his transplant surgery, he's been feeling great. But lately he's been out of breath, waking up all sweaty, but he doesn't know what's going on.
When The Gaines' (Chris' adopted parents) come to Boston they stay at Mike's house for the first time, and things go downhill without his knowledge. Mike believes Kassie's 6th sense has rubbed off on him, making him see things he'd never look twice at before.
Before everyone wakes up the following day, he makes some last minute changes to his will and does some matchmaking at the same time, then leaves the house to make it official. That's when Karen tells Sarah and Charlie how she feels about them being involved in "her son's" life. When Mike walks in the door, Charlie and Sarah have already packed their bags, called a cab, and are leaving to stay to in a hotel. When he asks why and what happened, Karen just lies.
The next day, Mike takes Karen to the Cape. On the beach, she yells at him for not proposing marriage. So he gives her a shell from the shore to hold on to until he's divorced. But that night, she insists on spending the night alone in her apartment. That doesn't sit right with him, being newly engaged he thought she'd be eager to celebrate. When he catches her in a lie about Bill and baseball tickets and finds the evidence, he goes to her place to see if she'll tell him the truth. Instead, he sees her from his car make out with Charlie in the middle of the street.
Back in Paris, Chris gets down on one knee and proposes to Kassie but instead of saying "yes" she realizes that she's having an allergic reaction to something she had at dinner and panics when the itching and swelling becomes too much. Chris is confused, did she accept his proposal or not? But when he sees the hives and swelling, he knows it's bad and they table their moment. Kassie is freaking out, her big meeting is tomorrow morning and she now knows that she ruined his beautiful proposal.
The only thing bothering her for the past few days is the fact that she saw his passport stamped for Greece four months ago. She had asked him if he dated while they were apart and he said no. Yet he's been ignoring calls that have a certain ring tone.
The next morning, Kassie makes him repeat his proposal so she knows that it was indeed real, she accepts with the condition that they are "engaged to be engaged" until her divorce is final in 2 months.
Her meeting blows her away. It's everything she ever wanted and more. When she leaves 4 hours later, Chris is outside the building waiting for her with her luggage. Apparently, Mike had had a heart attack and Kassie is his next of kin, so they need to go home immediately. Kassie is upset over 2 things. She didn't have anything to write in for the meeting, so Chris gave her his notebook to borrow. On her way there in the car, Kassie decided to write down what she wanted to talk about. Instead she saw something that caught her attention. The name "Lexi" was written along with her pro's but so was Kassie's name and her pro's. She was so taken back, she closed the notebook. She didn't want to ruin her meeting.
Her meeting is everything she's ever wanted and more. The only problem is, Chris won't even entertain the idea. The firm is expanding to London. The managing director she just met with in Paris is pregnant with twins. They want her to run the Paris office for 9 months and then she'll come back to Boston for bigger things, like hopefully partner. She already said yes, but Chris won't even talk about it.
Back in Boston, Karen has been trying to get in touch with Mike, not knowing that she caused his heart attack. Thinking he's mad about the tickets and her lie, she drives to the house and sees an ambulance. She tries to rush to him, but Mike tells her to get out. She can't believe it, but Amelia and her mom, Teresa, are there with him blocking her way. The EMTs won't let her ride with him because he only wants Amelia to come. Meanwhile, Teresa suggests that they call Kassie, making Karen furious. Making Teresa point out the obvious fact, Kassie is his wife; Karen isn't.
Kassie and Chris go to the hospital to see Mike and he looks terrible. He congratulates them on their engagement and then asks to speak to her alone one last time. Then Mike apologizes for treating her the way he did. Telling her that his biggest regret was cheating her out of kids. Then he tells her everything that Karen did. Kassie was mad and disgusted that Karen did what she did to Bill. They part on good, loving terms; with a sweet kiss goodbye.
Five a.m. the following day the hospital call Kassie telling her that Mike had a massive heart attack and they couldn't revive him; he died. Kassie goes into complete shock. Chris takes over taking care of notifying everyone, but Kassie has the job of telling Karen. When she tells her, not a single tear was shed.
When Kassie calls Teresa to let her know, Teresa immediately told Kassie to hire a locksmith to change the locks on the house. The house belongs to Kassie now, as does the business and every single thing that Mike owned; but Karen doesn't know that yet.
Later that day, Kassie goes by the house to find Karen trying to jam her key in a lock that no longer works. Kassie asks her why she's there, she said because she has things in the house. After Kassie gets a bag for Karen's stuff, follows her very closely--not to Karen's liking, grabs Karen's stuff and tells her to go. Then she changes her mind (because she loved him too) and asks her to help her pick out a suit to bury him in. When Karen sees Kassie pull out Mike's secret lockbox full of jewelry and money, she's furious with herself that she never snooped before. Then Kassie pulls out a stack of hundred dollar bills, gives her 10 of them, and tells her to get out. That's when Karen realizes she needs to be nicer to her. So Karen asks her if she's getting more in his will, Kassie tells her to leave. She'd find out everything in a few days.
When Kassie had claimed Mike's body at the hospital, the doctors wanted permission to do an autopsy. She was against it immediately. But Chris talked her into it, so she did. It turned out that it actually paid off.
At the wake, Kassie spoke to everyone that Mike listed in his will. She is the majority owner of his advertising firm, Chris also owns a piece, alongside with Bill, who Mike hired 20 years ago. Karen hated Bill from day 1, she did everything she possibly could to make him look bad; but it backfired in the worst way. When it came time to talk to Karen, Chris got an email from the hospital. That email changed everything in her world.
Kassie told Chris about Karen and Charlie after they saw Mike at the hospital; they were having dinner with Annie. Chris had to tell his mom, Sarah; it was Sarah's idea to do the DNA and the autopsy. (She had a hunch.) They ran Chris' DNA to the tissue they took from Mike's body, it turns out that they weren't even related. In college, Karen was sleeping with both Mike and Charlie, her best friend's fiancee. It turns out that Charlie is Chris' biological dad. He raised his own son.
Karen thought she'd hit the jackpot. But Mike only left Karen $60,000 to be paid out $1,000 a month for the next five years and a job as a receptionist at the firm for life. She was so livid she told Charlie she expected more and was owed it. Charlie, an attorney, told her that she had no claim because she wasn't his wife, so Karen left. Kassie was so relieved, she cried. It had been weighing so heavily on her shoulders for the past 2 years that she had slept with her stepson.
But when the doorbell rang after all the guests but Bill, Nancy, Sarah, Charlie, Amelia, Teresa, Annie, Chris, and Kassie who could it be?
That's where Chris' past makes an appearance. Lexi, who was a "friend" drops the biggest bomb on Kassie when she least expects it.
A must read!!
If you enjoyed the first book in this series, you will definitely enjoy book #2. Don't read this book if you haven't read the first one. FYI, there's a final book coming out to end this saga. I can't wait!! This us a long, detailed review, but I couldn't help myself!!
It's been a year since Kassie gave up on her dreams of a life with Chris. She selflessly helped her soon to be ex-husband, Mike, find a kidney donor, reconnected him with his first love, Karen, and the baby she gave up for adoption to her best friends in college. That's when Kassie got the shock of her life when she found out that the same man that she'd been having an affair with for the past 5 years, the one she was head over heels in love with, and was planning a life with, was Mike's biological son. So Kassie did the honorable thing and walked away. She moved out of their home, right into Annie's condo.
Kassie buried herself in her job. She worked late every night to make up for putting everyone else first, but her career. She wants to make partner. With her bringing in new clients and more revenue, she thinks she has a chance. Other than working herself to death, she spends time volunteering--reading to kids, working with animals, etc. Anything to keep her mind busy.
When Annie suggested they go back to Venice where she first met Chris to go get closure and move on, Kassie's says no. But after talking to her therapist, she realizes it's the only way that she can move on and enjoy the memories they once had.
Kassie and Annie arrive separately due to their schedules, but she never expected her best friend to conspire with Chris. Kassie was having a drink waiting for Annie at the same restaurant that she met Chris 5 years ago, when Chris shows up surprising her. They end up in bed that night and the following morning, Chris told her they were going to Paris, to have a new beginning in a new city.
When they arrive, Kassie has a letter from her boss, Tom, asking her to meet with the managing director of their Paris branch. Not knowing if what's going on between them is a fling in a foreign country or not, she just goes with it.
Meanwhile back home in Boston, life with Karen isn't what Mike thought it would be. He misses his wife and the life they had. He knows that he took her for granted and he regrets that. Karen uses her kidney donation as a tool for manipulation. So Mike lets her have his credit cards to shut down a marriage proposal; he's not even divorced yet. Secretly, she's looking for the big cash payout. Knowing that as his wife that she'll own the house, business, and bank accounts, she's bidding her time.
Since his transplant surgery, he's been feeling great. But lately he's been out of breath, waking up all sweaty, but he doesn't know what's going on.
When The Gaines' (Chris' adopted parents) come to Boston they stay at Mike's house for the first time, and things go downhill without his knowledge. Mike believes Kassie's 6th sense has rubbed off on him, making him see things he'd never look twice at before.
Before everyone wakes up the following day, he makes some last minute changes to his will and does some matchmaking at the same time, then leaves the house to make it official. That's when Karen tells Sarah and Charlie how she feels about them being involved in "her son's" life. When Mike walks in the door, Charlie and Sarah have already packed their bags, called a cab, and are leaving to stay to in a hotel. When he asks why and what happened, Karen just lies.
The next day, Mike takes Karen to the Cape. On the beach, she yells at him for not proposing marriage. So he gives her a shell from the shore to hold on to until he's divorced. But that night, she insists on spending the night alone in her apartment. That doesn't sit right with him, being newly engaged he thought she'd be eager to celebrate. When he catches her in a lie about Bill and baseball tickets and finds the evidence, he goes to her place to see if she'll tell him the truth. Instead, he sees her from his car make out with Charlie in the middle of the street.
Back in Paris, Chris gets down on one knee and proposes to Kassie but instead of saying "yes" she realizes that she's having an allergic reaction to something she had at dinner and panics when the itching and swelling becomes too much. Chris is confused, did she accept his proposal or not? But when he sees the hives and swelling, he knows it's bad and they table their moment. Kassie is freaking out, her big meeting is tomorrow morning and she now knows that she ruined his beautiful proposal.
The only thing bothering her for the past few days is the fact that she saw his passport stamped for Greece four months ago. She had asked him if he dated while they were apart and he said no. Yet he's been ignoring calls that have a certain ring tone.
The next morning, Kassie makes him repeat his proposal so she knows that it was indeed real, she accepts with the condition that they are "engaged to be engaged" until her divorce is final in 2 months.
Her meeting blows her away. It's everything she ever wanted and more. When she leaves 4 hours later, Chris is outside the building waiting for her with her luggage. Apparently, Mike had had a heart attack and Kassie is his next of kin, so they need to go home immediately. Kassie is upset over 2 things. She didn't have anything to write in for the meeting, so Chris gave her his notebook to borrow. On her way there in the car, Kassie decided to write down what she wanted to talk about. Instead she saw something that caught her attention. The name "Lexi" was written along with her pro's but so was Kassie's name and her pro's. She was so taken back, she closed the notebook. She didn't want to ruin her meeting.
Her meeting is everything she's ever wanted and more. The only problem is, Chris won't even entertain the idea. The firm is expanding to London. The managing director she just met with in Paris is pregnant with twins. They want her to run the Paris office for 9 months and then she'll come back to Boston for bigger things, like hopefully partner. She already said yes, but Chris won't even talk about it.
Back in Boston, Karen has been trying to get in touch with Mike, not knowing that she caused his heart attack. Thinking he's mad about the tickets and her lie, she drives to the house and sees an ambulance. She tries to rush to him, but Mike tells her to get out. She can't believe it, but Amelia and her mom, Teresa, are there with him blocking her way. The EMTs won't let her ride with him because he only wants Amelia to come. Meanwhile, Teresa suggests that they call Kassie, making Karen furious. Making Teresa point out the obvious fact, Kassie is his wife; Karen isn't.
Kassie and Chris go to the hospital to see Mike and he looks terrible. He congratulates them on their engagement and then asks to speak to her alone one last time. Then Mike apologizes for treating her the way he did. Telling her that his biggest regret was cheating her out of kids. Then he tells her everything that Karen did. Kassie was mad and disgusted that Karen did what she did to Bill. They part on good, loving terms; with a sweet kiss goodbye.
Five a.m. the following day the hospital call Kassie telling her that Mike had a massive heart attack and they couldn't revive him; he died. Kassie goes into complete shock. Chris takes over taking care of notifying everyone, but Kassie has the job of telling Karen. When she tells her, not a single tear was shed.
When Kassie calls Teresa to let her know, Teresa immediately told Kassie to hire a locksmith to change the locks on the house. The house belongs to Kassie now, as does the business and every single thing that Mike owned; but Karen doesn't know that yet.
Later that day, Kassie goes by the house to find Karen trying to jam her key in a lock that no longer works. Kassie asks her why she's there, she said because she has things in the house. After Kassie gets a bag for Karen's stuff, follows her very closely--not to Karen's liking, grabs Karen's stuff and tells her to go. Then she changes her mind (because she loved him too) and asks her to help her pick out a suit to bury him in. When Karen sees Kassie pull out Mike's secret lockbox full of jewelry and money, she's furious with herself that she never snooped before. Then Kassie pulls out a stack of hundred dollar bills, gives her 10 of them, and tells her to get out. That's when Karen realizes she needs to be nicer to her. So Karen asks her if she's getting more in his will, Kassie tells her to leave. She'd find out everything in a few days.
When Kassie had claimed Mike's body at the hospital, the doctors wanted permission to do an autopsy. She was against it immediately. But Chris talked her into it, so she did. It turned out that it actually paid off.
At the wake, Kassie spoke to everyone that Mike listed in his will. She is the majority owner of his advertising firm, Chris also owns a piece, alongside with Bill, who Mike hired 20 years ago. Karen hated Bill from day 1, she did everything she possibly could to make him look bad; but it backfired in the worst way. When it came time to talk to Karen, Chris got an email from the hospital. That email changed everything in her world.
Kassie told Chris about Karen and Charlie after they saw Mike at the hospital; they were having dinner with Annie. Chris had to tell his mom, Sarah; it was Sarah's idea to do the DNA and the autopsy. (She had a hunch.) They ran Chris' DNA to the tissue they took from Mike's body, it turns out that they weren't even related. In college, Karen was sleeping with both Mike and Charlie, her best friend's fiancee. It turns out that Charlie is Chris' biological dad. He raised his own son.
Karen thought she'd hit the jackpot. But Mike only left Karen $60,000 to be paid out $1,000 a month for the next five years and a job as a receptionist at the firm for life. She was so livid she told Charlie she expected more and was owed it. Charlie, an attorney, told her that she had no claim because she wasn't his wife, so Karen left. Kassie was so relieved, she cried. It had been weighing so heavily on her shoulders for the past 2 years that she had slept with her stepson.
But when the doorbell rang after all the guests but Bill, Nancy, Sarah, Charlie, Amelia, Teresa, Annie, Chris, and Kassie who could it be?
That's where Chris' past makes an appearance. Lexi, who was a "friend" drops the biggest bomb on Kassie when she least expects it.
A must read!!
Read
August 9, 2021
What’s Not True
is the direct sequel to What’s Not Said. While it is ideal to read both novels to fully connect with the characters and story, there are enough pieces of the backstory throughout this novel to help the reader understand everything. The recap elements were well done as they are informative enough for those that did not read the first novel while not being too in-depth to be too much for those that only need some recap. The story continues to follow the main cast of characters after the unexpected ending for them in the first novel.
Kassandra (Kassie) O’Callaghan, a woman in her fifties, is in Venice where she was originally going to meet her best friend Annie; however, her friend had other plans. Instead, Kassie reunites with Christopher (Chris) Gaines, who she met in Venice five years before and started a secret long-distance affair, even though he is ten years younger. As a recap for the previous novel, Kassie and Chris were planning to start a life together and Chris even relocated to Kassie’s side of the United States in Boston from his house in San Francisco. However, Kassie’s divorce plans from her husband, Michael Ricci, went haywire after he landed in the hospital in need of a kidney transplant. Their story was further complicated as Chris learns about his birth parents, where Mike is his father and Karen Copperman, who used to reside in Elephant Butte, New Mexico, but relocated to Boston. Karen ends up being the kidney donor for Mike and the two of them restart a relationship together. As Mike is moving on with Karen and he and Kassie are working on finalizing their divorce, the events led Kassie to take the trip to Venice.
The story starts off where the first novel left off with Kassie in Venice with Chris and the two of them are going to Paris together. There two main stories as the reader follows Kassie and Chris trying to work everything out given Chris’s relationship with Mike. The other storyline follows Mike who is now with Karen, but is not entirely sure about the direction his life is going. On the other hand, Karen is determined to make her relationship with Mike work and replace Kassie’s existence in everyone’s lives. Additionally, Chris’s adoptive parents, Charlie and Sarah Gaines play a role in the story after the discovery of Chris’s biological father and their previous history with Karen. The novel is complex as all of the stories all intertwine with each other with one twist after another. Even towards the end of the novel, the twists did not stop, so the novel leaves the reader on the edge of their seat from start to finish.
Overall, this is a complex soap opera with multiple affairs, betrayals, and journeys of self-discovery. There are some nice themes of regret and life decisions as some of the characters think about the mistakes they made along the way and if they would do things differently if they could go back in time. All of the characters in this story have their own flaws and some are more likeable than others. I loved how well-written and realistic they are. They may not be perfect, but they are each working to try and find their own happiness, which looks different to each of them. Each character reflects on different decisions from their past and how some of these decisions worked out and others led to consequences. Each of them is working towards finding a way to make decisions for their future as they continue to journey through life. An excellent sequel that was a great addition to the series!
**I give a special thank you to Netgalley, the publisher, She Writes Press, and the author for the opportunity to read this entertaining novel. The opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.**
Kassandra (Kassie) O’Callaghan, a woman in her fifties, is in Venice where she was originally going to meet her best friend Annie; however, her friend had other plans. Instead, Kassie reunites with Christopher (Chris) Gaines, who she met in Venice five years before and started a secret long-distance affair, even though he is ten years younger. As a recap for the previous novel, Kassie and Chris were planning to start a life together and Chris even relocated to Kassie’s side of the United States in Boston from his house in San Francisco. However, Kassie’s divorce plans from her husband, Michael Ricci, went haywire after he landed in the hospital in need of a kidney transplant. Their story was further complicated as Chris learns about his birth parents, where Mike is his father and Karen Copperman, who used to reside in Elephant Butte, New Mexico, but relocated to Boston. Karen ends up being the kidney donor for Mike and the two of them restart a relationship together. As Mike is moving on with Karen and he and Kassie are working on finalizing their divorce, the events led Kassie to take the trip to Venice.
The story starts off where the first novel left off with Kassie in Venice with Chris and the two of them are going to Paris together. There two main stories as the reader follows Kassie and Chris trying to work everything out given Chris’s relationship with Mike. The other storyline follows Mike who is now with Karen, but is not entirely sure about the direction his life is going. On the other hand, Karen is determined to make her relationship with Mike work and replace Kassie’s existence in everyone’s lives. Additionally, Chris’s adoptive parents, Charlie and Sarah Gaines play a role in the story after the discovery of Chris’s biological father and their previous history with Karen. The novel is complex as all of the stories all intertwine with each other with one twist after another. Even towards the end of the novel, the twists did not stop, so the novel leaves the reader on the edge of their seat from start to finish.
Overall, this is a complex soap opera with multiple affairs, betrayals, and journeys of self-discovery. There are some nice themes of regret and life decisions as some of the characters think about the mistakes they made along the way and if they would do things differently if they could go back in time. All of the characters in this story have their own flaws and some are more likeable than others. I loved how well-written and realistic they are. They may not be perfect, but they are each working to try and find their own happiness, which looks different to each of them. Each character reflects on different decisions from their past and how some of these decisions worked out and others led to consequences. Each of them is working towards finding a way to make decisions for their future as they continue to journey through life. An excellent sequel that was a great addition to the series!
**I give a special thank you to Netgalley, the publisher, She Writes Press, and the author for the opportunity to read this entertaining novel. The opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.**
May 10, 2022
In midst of a divorce from Mike, Kassie O’Callaghan reunites with her ex-lover Chris as they run away to Paris. But unfortunately, their plans are derailed repeatedly. First from her marketing career at Calibri marketing group, when she is offered a new position at her company’s Paris office. Second a sudden heart attack that drags her back home to Boston. While in Boston, Kassie has to deal with Mike’s fiancee, Karen, as she attempts to steal the rights to the business Kassie and Mike forged together. Things get more complicated during the legal battle between Kassie and Karen when DNA tests reveal shocking news that could change everything. What’s Not True; A Novel is a sequel to Valerie Taylor’s What’s Not Said.
When reading the novel, a reader might be caught off guard as the story picks up directly after What’s Not Said. However, after the first couple of chapters, the characters and their story become more apparent. Although not a required read, What’s Not Said offers much insight into the characters’ dynamics.
The reader is quickly sucked into a complicated love web. Author Valerie Taylor does a fantastic job with her character building. Each of her characters is endearing in their own way, despite their flaws. For example, although Mike’s character is questionable, the reader is still found rooting for him and his desires. Kassie struggles with finding her footing as a professional and in her romantic life. The situations Kassie ends up in are great catalysts for her character’s growth.
The book has a satisfying ending where many family secrets finally come to light, giving many characters clarity on their past. Readers will not feel like they are left hanging with questions and will actually find peace on many subjects that come in in the course of this entertaining novel.
What’s Not True is a heartwarming story that would make a great beach read, filled with plot twists and interesting characters. This captivating and romantic story that is anything but predictable.
When reading the novel, a reader might be caught off guard as the story picks up directly after What’s Not Said. However, after the first couple of chapters, the characters and their story become more apparent. Although not a required read, What’s Not Said offers much insight into the characters’ dynamics.
The reader is quickly sucked into a complicated love web. Author Valerie Taylor does a fantastic job with her character building. Each of her characters is endearing in their own way, despite their flaws. For example, although Mike’s character is questionable, the reader is still found rooting for him and his desires. Kassie struggles with finding her footing as a professional and in her romantic life. The situations Kassie ends up in are great catalysts for her character’s growth.
The book has a satisfying ending where many family secrets finally come to light, giving many characters clarity on their past. Readers will not feel like they are left hanging with questions and will actually find peace on many subjects that come in in the course of this entertaining novel.
What’s Not True is a heartwarming story that would make a great beach read, filled with plot twists and interesting characters. This captivating and romantic story that is anything but predictable.
February 1, 2023
What’s Not True
A Novel
By Valerie Taylor
Book review by Sylvia Jacobs
This is the sequel to What’s Not Said. The divorce agreement between Kassie and Mike was all set for September. Although their marriage failed, Mike owed her a lot. Therefore, if he ever passed away Kassie would inherit a sizable amount of wealth.It would stay that way for now. This was all written in Mike’s will but he could possibly make changes after the divorce.
Kassie puts all of her energy now into her marketing career. She wants to become the Kassie people once knew. She is putting in long hours, trying to break boundaries, getting new clients, doing better than the competition and being the person that brings in the most money for the firm. Was she back or not?
Kassie was vacationing in Paris. Will she have to come back from her vacation when she finds out that her soon to be ex husband Mike has a heart attack? Will something worse happen to Mike?
Will there be a letter left to Kassie from Mike? What will it say?
A big positive about this book is that it is highly addictive and you won't want to put it down once you start it. One should be prepared to be reading for a while. It is quite something to look forward to. One will want to devour each book they read.
The only negative I found was that I didn’t know about this author and her amazing writing skills before.
The rating that this book deserves is 5 out of 5 stars. There are so many secrets in the book that will keep you turning the pages. One will want to hide out in a library to finish the book as soon as you start it. For me, I did just that.
It is recommended to all that enjoy an exciting and very well written book.
A Novel
By Valerie Taylor
Book review by Sylvia Jacobs
This is the sequel to What’s Not Said. The divorce agreement between Kassie and Mike was all set for September. Although their marriage failed, Mike owed her a lot. Therefore, if he ever passed away Kassie would inherit a sizable amount of wealth.It would stay that way for now. This was all written in Mike’s will but he could possibly make changes after the divorce.
Kassie puts all of her energy now into her marketing career. She wants to become the Kassie people once knew. She is putting in long hours, trying to break boundaries, getting new clients, doing better than the competition and being the person that brings in the most money for the firm. Was she back or not?
Kassie was vacationing in Paris. Will she have to come back from her vacation when she finds out that her soon to be ex husband Mike has a heart attack? Will something worse happen to Mike?
Will there be a letter left to Kassie from Mike? What will it say?
A big positive about this book is that it is highly addictive and you won't want to put it down once you start it. One should be prepared to be reading for a while. It is quite something to look forward to. One will want to devour each book they read.
The only negative I found was that I didn’t know about this author and her amazing writing skills before.
The rating that this book deserves is 5 out of 5 stars. There are so many secrets in the book that will keep you turning the pages. One will want to hide out in a library to finish the book as soon as you start it. For me, I did just that.
It is recommended to all that enjoy an exciting and very well written book.
December 20, 2021
WHAT'S NOT TRUE is the sequel to WHAT'S NOT SAID and can be read as a stand alone. I highly recommend reading the first book because it is fabulous and you get the background on the characters.
Kassie decides she needs to get away from her divorce proceedings, her marketing career and failed relationship with the 10 years younger Chris. Kassie thinks she is meeting her best friend Annie in Venice. She realizes she was setup when Chris arrives in Venice for a second chance. They decide to fly to Paris to give their relationship another go. While in Paris her boss asks her to meet up with a colleague. Kassie receives two exciting proposals in the same day! But can she accept them?
When Chris gets a call that his father and Kassie's soon to be exhusband Mike (yes you read that right) had a heart attack, they fly back to Boston. Kassie meets Mike's fiancé Karen who is lying, conniving, and deceitful.
Karen wants everything that is Kassies and more. But will get what she wants?
I cheerrd for Kassie and Chris's relationship. Karen's character you will love to hate The descriptions of Paris, the restaurants and the Eiffel Tower had me wishing I was in Paris. Valerie please tell me there is a third book!
Kassie decides she needs to get away from her divorce proceedings, her marketing career and failed relationship with the 10 years younger Chris. Kassie thinks she is meeting her best friend Annie in Venice. She realizes she was setup when Chris arrives in Venice for a second chance. They decide to fly to Paris to give their relationship another go. While in Paris her boss asks her to meet up with a colleague. Kassie receives two exciting proposals in the same day! But can she accept them?
When Chris gets a call that his father and Kassie's soon to be exhusband Mike (yes you read that right) had a heart attack, they fly back to Boston. Kassie meets Mike's fiancé Karen who is lying, conniving, and deceitful.
Karen wants everything that is Kassies and more. But will get what she wants?
I cheerrd for Kassie and Chris's relationship. Karen's character you will love to hate The descriptions of Paris, the restaurants and the Eiffel Tower had me wishing I was in Paris. Valerie please tell me there is a third book!
July 22, 2021
This a beautiful story about how life is not always easy and it can bring you many struggles. This is a continuation of "What's not Said" so if you have not read the first book then you will definetely be confused.
Kassie is trying to get her life back on track. But some obstacles prevent her from doing that. There are a lot of twists that keep you on the edge of your seat and make you shocked. And the way they unravel is so entertaining and enjoyable!
This book is actually so complex and it really makes you think about your own life too and the choices that you have made. Definetely recommend.
I received an ARC from Independent Book Publishers Association through NetGalley.
Kassie is trying to get her life back on track. But some obstacles prevent her from doing that. There are a lot of twists that keep you on the edge of your seat and make you shocked. And the way they unravel is so entertaining and enjoyable!
This book is actually so complex and it really makes you think about your own life too and the choices that you have made. Definetely recommend.
I received an ARC from Independent Book Publishers Association through NetGalley.
September 13, 2021
This is the sequel to What's Not Said, and I highly recommend reading that one first. Otherwise, you'll be confused until you figure out the characters and their relationships. Having said that, the book opens with Kassie on the verge of finalizing her divorce from Mike, who is a pretty rotten guy. During the course of the book, though, I actually find myself rooting for Mike, much to my surprise! He's not the only character who developed and caused me to change my mind about, either. Valerie Taylor does an excellent job of keeping all her characters intriguing and keeping the reader guessing. Lot of romance and family drama in this one. Highly recommended.
August 15, 2021
This was a sequel to "What's Not Said", but it is also a stand alone. What a great read. I have never been a soap opera fan, but if this book was one, I'd religiously watch it.
There are four main characters, Mike and Karen; and Kassie and Chris. The relationships intertwine personally and through businesses. Divorce, blackmail, toxic relationships, medical urgencies. This has it all! I would recommend you read the first book to get a really solid background on the characters first.
Thank you NetGalley for providing this copy in exchange for an unpaid, honest review.
There are four main characters, Mike and Karen; and Kassie and Chris. The relationships intertwine personally and through businesses. Divorce, blackmail, toxic relationships, medical urgencies. This has it all! I would recommend you read the first book to get a really solid background on the characters first.
Thank you NetGalley for providing this copy in exchange for an unpaid, honest review.
October 28, 2021
This is the sequel to the What's Not Said series by Valerie Taylor. Kassie O'Callahan is a successful marketing executive who suffered emotional abuse from her husband Mike Ricci of 30-years. She decides to divorce him but is thrown a bone in her divorce plans when her soon-to-be ex-husband suffers from chronic illness and is hospitalized. I really enjoyed reading this romantic read.
November 26, 2021
I liked this one SO much better than the first. The characters became much more likeable - although they were all still quite immoral, they became more multi-faceted and there was much more to the story than their sexual escapades. And when they did have sex, it wasn't nearly as descriptive as in the first one.
Just as with the first one, the "surprise" ending waasn't a surprise. From the first mention of Lexi, I knew what was coming. I can't wait to see how it all gets worked out in the last in this series.
Just as with the first one, the "surprise" ending waasn't a surprise. From the first mention of Lexi, I knew what was coming. I can't wait to see how it all gets worked out in the last in this series.
December 29, 2021
I received an eARC of What's Not True by Valerie Taylor from She Writes Press and NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. Thank you!
4 stars! What's Not True is a sequel to What's Not Said. It can be read as a standalone. There is so much family drama and twisted dynamics. This isn't a boring read by any means.
4 stars! What's Not True is a sequel to What's Not Said. It can be read as a standalone. There is so much family drama and twisted dynamics. This isn't a boring read by any means.
May 10, 2022
I love a good family drama and this book has the drama in spades! It's like a soap opera but very well written with dynamic characters. Our main character, Kassie, is trying to find happiness and experiences a lot of complications along the way. The book is very entertaining with a satisfying ending! I liked What's Not True enough to want to read book one (What's Not Said) and am also hoping for a book #3. **Thanks to the publisher and NetGalley for this advanced copy.
September 5, 2022
Talk about a twisted family tree! For sure this is one full of twists. After 30 years of marriage, and so many lies, it is just a few months away from divorce court. Both people have moved on, She is offered a dream opportunity. But things are complicated. Interesting story for sure.
I read the book on NetGalley
I read the book on NetGalley
January 21, 2023
Taylor is a new favorite author of mine!!!!
I absolutely LOVE the What's Not Trilogy. Taylor has a way of unfolding her prose that keeps her readers guessing and intrigued at the same time. I love her quirky, sassy style and characters. Be sure to read WHAT'S NOT SAID first and then move onto WHAT'S NOT LOST!
I absolutely LOVE the What's Not Trilogy. Taylor has a way of unfolding her prose that keeps her readers guessing and intrigued at the same time. I love her quirky, sassy style and characters. Be sure to read WHAT'S NOT SAID first and then move onto WHAT'S NOT LOST!
November 19, 2021
I loved this book!! It reminded me of a soap opera where everyone is sleeping with everyone else! The words flowed on the page which always makes for a good read! If you haven't read this book yet you are in for a treat!
November 18, 2022
Expect the unpredictable in Valerie Taylor’s What’s Not True, the sequel to What’s Not Said. You will not be disappointed in following the story of Kassie and Mike as more secrets are revealed and consequences result among a dysfunctional group of friends from their youth. Truth leads to a surprising ending. Readers will anticipate the third book in this series, What’s Not Lost.
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