What do you think?
Rate this book
True North #8
Waylaid
It’s a tale as old as time: the bad boy meets the good girl. He makes a daring proposition. Then the boy gets a mysterious head injury and loses a year of his life…
The first time I meet Rickie, I don’t know what to make of him. The second time we meet, he doesn’t remember the six hours we spent together. Or standing me up afterward.
I’m not the same, either. I’ve got secrets. I’ve told lies. Bad boys aren’t my type, anyway. Even the ones with troubled gray eyes.
But now we’re roommates. Cue the awkward moments in the hallway when he’s wearing only a towel and a smile. He’s determined to win me over, and his talented hands weaken my resolve.
It’s all fun and games until my past rears its ugly head and his secrets come to light, shaking our fragile connection, maybe even breaking it…
Note: this is Daphne Shipley's story. Contents include Vermonty ice cream flavors, nerdy awkwardness, tattoos, and a playboy grandpa.
The first time I meet Rickie, I don’t know what to make of him. The second time we meet, he doesn’t remember the six hours we spent together. Or standing me up afterward.
I’m not the same, either. I’ve got secrets. I’ve told lies. Bad boys aren’t my type, anyway. Even the ones with troubled gray eyes.
But now we’re roommates. Cue the awkward moments in the hallway when he’s wearing only a towel and a smile. He’s determined to win me over, and his talented hands weaken my resolve.
It’s all fun and games until my past rears its ugly head and his secrets come to light, shaking our fragile connection, maybe even breaking it…
Note: this is Daphne Shipley's story. Contents include Vermonty ice cream flavors, nerdy awkwardness, tattoos, and a playboy grandpa.
318 pages, Paperback
First published July 20, 2021
263 people are currently reading
5496 people want to read
About the author
Sarina Bowen
105 books18.9k followers
Sarina Bowen is the 24-time USA Today bestselling and Wall Street Journal bestselling author of contemporary fiction, including: The Five Year Lie, the True North series, and the Brooklyn Hockey series. She's the co-author of Him/Us and the WAGs series with Elle Kennedy. And more!
You can find a complete reading order list of Sarina's books on her website. Or see what's coming next from Sarina, and sign up for her newsletter so you don't miss a new book or a deal.
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 579 reviews
November 17, 2021
RICKIE IS CHEEKIE, SASSY, FULL OF LIFE, BOLD AS BRASS - AND POTENTLY IRRESISTIBLE!
Life is never dull when Rickie is around: popular, devilishly handsome Rickie usually gets what he wants. And prickly, control-freak Daphne Shipley is all Rickie can think about while he works alongside Dylan on the Shipley farm this summer. But every time he walks into a room, she walks out. What gives? What could he possibly have done to alienate the beautiful Daphne?
Rickie can't remember the year of his life before his accident almost three years ago, and Daphne Shipley can't understand why he ghosted her after their brief time together.
Rickie is suffering from PTSD: he won't allow anyone into his bedroom and he hasn't hooked up with someone in over two years. Something has dimmed his passion and zest for life. He can't allow anyone into his bedroom (his inner sanctum) - that is, until he meets Dylan's high maintenance twin sister, Daphne. Rickie immediately has a strong sense of "recognition" but he can't place when they first met.
Rickie is seeing a therapist to help resolve his memory issues. Those psychotherapy sessions were fascinating, and the banter between Rickie and his therapist, Lenore, was so entertaining! What a guy - brains and brawn, and tattooed to boot! How could straight-laced, good girl Daphne ever hope to resist him!?!?!
Daphne may have been badly burned in her last relationship, and Rickie may not be able to explain his aversion to close physical contact, but all their reservations fly out the window when their attraction to one another combusts and their barriers are finally torn down.
Ironically, these two star-crossed lovers share the same Nemesis - the same depraved enemy who had the power to smash their careers and destroy their happiness. Those last few chapters were tense and action-packed. Rickie's memory is finally triggered and all hell breaks loose when he finally remembers who and what caused his past trauma. That was a totally heartbreaking scene - as was Daphne's own personal epiphany.
I highly, highly recommend this incredibly steamy novel - full of non-stop action and humour! All the stars!
(Daphne certainly had no complaints about Rickie's moves!)
(My thanks to the author, publisher and publicist for an advanced copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.)
RELEASE DATE JULY 20/21
VENDORS
Amazon: https://geni.us/AmazonWaylaid
Apple: https://geni.us/AppleWaylaid
Kobo: https://geni.us/KoboWaylaid
Nook: https://geni.us/NookWaylaid
Google: Coming soon!
Audio: Coming Soon!
Amazon | Apple | Kobo | Nook
Life is never dull when Rickie is around: popular, devilishly handsome Rickie usually gets what he wants. And prickly, control-freak Daphne Shipley is all Rickie can think about while he works alongside Dylan on the Shipley farm this summer. But every time he walks into a room, she walks out. What gives? What could he possibly have done to alienate the beautiful Daphne?
Rickie can't remember the year of his life before his accident almost three years ago, and Daphne Shipley can't understand why he ghosted her after their brief time together.
Rickie is suffering from PTSD: he won't allow anyone into his bedroom and he hasn't hooked up with someone in over two years. Something has dimmed his passion and zest for life. He can't allow anyone into his bedroom (his inner sanctum) - that is, until he meets Dylan's high maintenance twin sister, Daphne. Rickie immediately has a strong sense of "recognition" but he can't place when they first met.
Rickie is seeing a therapist to help resolve his memory issues. Those psychotherapy sessions were fascinating, and the banter between Rickie and his therapist, Lenore, was so entertaining! What a guy - brains and brawn, and tattooed to boot! How could straight-laced, good girl Daphne ever hope to resist him!?!?!
Daphne may have been badly burned in her last relationship, and Rickie may not be able to explain his aversion to close physical contact, but all their reservations fly out the window when their attraction to one another combusts and their barriers are finally torn down.
Ironically, these two star-crossed lovers share the same Nemesis - the same depraved enemy who had the power to smash their careers and destroy their happiness. Those last few chapters were tense and action-packed. Rickie's memory is finally triggered and all hell breaks loose when he finally remembers who and what caused his past trauma. That was a totally heartbreaking scene - as was Daphne's own personal epiphany.
I highly, highly recommend this incredibly steamy novel - full of non-stop action and humour! All the stars!
(Daphne certainly had no complaints about Rickie's moves!)
(My thanks to the author, publisher and publicist for an advanced copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.)
RELEASE DATE JULY 20/21
VENDORS
Amazon: https://geni.us/AmazonWaylaid
Apple: https://geni.us/AppleWaylaid
Kobo: https://geni.us/KoboWaylaid
Nook: https://geni.us/NookWaylaid
Google: Coming soon!
Audio: Coming Soon!
Amazon | Apple | Kobo | Nook
August 30, 2021
"Rickie and I know each other’s secrets. We’ve seen each other’s pain."
I'm finding it hard to describe this book because I think there's a lot of stuff to be said, but I want to keep this spoiler-free. Suffice to say that, for me, this was a redemption story between two people who, despite being young, have been through a lot.
I'm giving this a solid 4.5.
"I'll never be ready for one of Rickie's kisses. I feel a jolt when those firm lips land on mine. It's like waking up to find yourself in the middle of a terrific party. Your whole body is invited, but your brain forgot the date and time."
Rickie is incredible. I mean, he's a bad boy, but not that much. He's supposed to be a playboy, but not that much either. He's a serious flirt. And he's definitely a good guy. There's a lot to be learned about Rickie, so many layers and so much stuff he's hiding behind his gray eyes and his smile.
"Daphne Shipley could bring a guy to his knees. If he’s lucky, he might just be that guy."
Daphne is prickly and sort of grumpy. I thought her brother Griffin was grumpy, but she took stuff to a new level. She craves control, and she's lost it before, so she doesn't trust easily. She needs to learn how to let go, and just be in the moment. And someone to show her she can trust.
“Because I’m going to kiss you in a minute, and you’ll forget whatever you had to say.”
“That’s arrogant.”
“No it isn’t.” His smile teases me. “Because I’ll forget too. I’ve got it bad for you."
They're both interested in each other, and that's plain to see. Those stolen glances, the small touches... Daphne keeps running away and avoiding him, but he keeps coming closer and closer. He doesn't understand why she's denying the chemistry between them, and she doesn't understand why he's chasing her.
"We are all trying to survive our pasts, so we can live with ourselves in the present."
You see, three years back, Daphne and Rickie met and shared a few rides to/from campus. And then he invited her on a date, but he never showed up. Something happened to Rickie that prevented him from meeting her that night, and he has PTSD and can't remember a few months of his life, including that moment. So Daphne resents him for something he doesn't know he did. And he recognizes her from somewhere but he can't quite pinpoint it.
“Maybe today you just can’t hear me. I have those days, too. But this will pass, Rickie. And I’ll still be here when it does. Because we’re a team."
Their connection was strong three years before, and I can safely say Rickie already had it bad back then. That connection is still very much alive now. It's only when they finally start sharing their secrets, and everything they've been hiding, that they can truly trust each other and finally be together. It's only then that Rickie can move on from what happened to him, and that they can both find their happiness.
It's important to say that the PTSD issues were very well addressed (I loved Rickie's therapist, Lenore). The Shipley family was amazing as always, and the small-town, farm vibe always gets to me.
Sarina Bowen does an incredible job in this book because these characters scream "real" to me. Yes, it's a love story, and there's romance, and hot scenes between Daphne and Rickie, but what's in the background is almost as important to me.
"A firm hand lands on the back of my neck and squeezes lightly. It’s Rickie. He doesn’t say anything. He doesn’t have to. He’s just there for me."
Both Daphne and Rickie are strong people, with a strong character. They just need to realize it's OK to let people in. It's OK to share your whole self with people, because the people who know the whole you, and your past, and your mistakes, and love you for it, are the one who are meant to be with you. They'll always be in your corner, and there's nothing quite like having someone there.
I'm finding it hard to describe this book because I think there's a lot of stuff to be said, but I want to keep this spoiler-free. Suffice to say that, for me, this was a redemption story between two people who, despite being young, have been through a lot.
I'm giving this a solid 4.5.
"I'll never be ready for one of Rickie's kisses. I feel a jolt when those firm lips land on mine. It's like waking up to find yourself in the middle of a terrific party. Your whole body is invited, but your brain forgot the date and time."
Rickie is incredible. I mean, he's a bad boy, but not that much. He's supposed to be a playboy, but not that much either. He's a serious flirt. And he's definitely a good guy. There's a lot to be learned about Rickie, so many layers and so much stuff he's hiding behind his gray eyes and his smile.
"Daphne Shipley could bring a guy to his knees. If he’s lucky, he might just be that guy."
Daphne is prickly and sort of grumpy. I thought her brother Griffin was grumpy, but she took stuff to a new level. She craves control, and she's lost it before, so she doesn't trust easily. She needs to learn how to let go, and just be in the moment. And someone to show her she can trust.
“Because I’m going to kiss you in a minute, and you’ll forget whatever you had to say.”
“That’s arrogant.”
“No it isn’t.” His smile teases me. “Because I’ll forget too. I’ve got it bad for you."
They're both interested in each other, and that's plain to see. Those stolen glances, the small touches... Daphne keeps running away and avoiding him, but he keeps coming closer and closer. He doesn't understand why she's denying the chemistry between them, and she doesn't understand why he's chasing her.
"We are all trying to survive our pasts, so we can live with ourselves in the present."
You see, three years back, Daphne and Rickie met and shared a few rides to/from campus. And then he invited her on a date, but he never showed up. Something happened to Rickie that prevented him from meeting her that night, and he has PTSD and can't remember a few months of his life, including that moment. So Daphne resents him for something he doesn't know he did. And he recognizes her from somewhere but he can't quite pinpoint it.
“Maybe today you just can’t hear me. I have those days, too. But this will pass, Rickie. And I’ll still be here when it does. Because we’re a team."
Their connection was strong three years before, and I can safely say Rickie already had it bad back then. That connection is still very much alive now. It's only when they finally start sharing their secrets, and everything they've been hiding, that they can truly trust each other and finally be together. It's only then that Rickie can move on from what happened to him, and that they can both find their happiness.
It's important to say that the PTSD issues were very well addressed (I loved Rickie's therapist, Lenore). The Shipley family was amazing as always, and the small-town, farm vibe always gets to me.
Sarina Bowen does an incredible job in this book because these characters scream "real" to me. Yes, it's a love story, and there's romance, and hot scenes between Daphne and Rickie, but what's in the background is almost as important to me.
"A firm hand lands on the back of my neck and squeezes lightly. It’s Rickie. He doesn’t say anything. He doesn’t have to. He’s just there for me."
Both Daphne and Rickie are strong people, with a strong character. They just need to realize it's OK to let people in. It's OK to share your whole self with people, because the people who know the whole you, and your past, and your mistakes, and love you for it, are the one who are meant to be with you. They'll always be in your corner, and there's nothing quite like having someone there.
Read
March 3, 2024Thank you, readers, for making Waylaid a USA Today bestseller! I'm so very grateful. ❤️
July 8, 2021
4.5 stars
I love Sarina Bowen’s ‘True North’ series and when I heard Rickie was getting his own book, I couldn’t wait. Then I realized his love interest was Daphne Shipley and I was even more excited!
Waylaid starts in the summer time while Daphane is home for the summer. Rickie is also there. Rickie is Dylan’s college roommate and decided to come and work at the Shipley farm for the summer. Daphane has met Rickie before, only he doesn’t remember.
Daphane is switching to Dylan’s school and she’s keeping secrets from her family. Rickie has secrets as well. Secrets can’t stay secrets forever. And when they come out there is even more of a connection than these two thought.
Rickie was such a fantastic character and definitely my favorite of the book. He’s been through so much and has his struggles, but he still managed to be lighthearted, sweet, and fun. I liked seeing Daphane’s story from her perspective. She’s the Shipley I liked least in some of the other books, but I like her much more now. Mostly, I really just loved these two together.
I always love reading about the Shipley family and it was amazing to get to see more from some of my favorite characters. The romance between Rickie and Daphane was great and I even liked the bit of suspense and build up we got. Overall this one was very enjoyable and the audio was incredible- Callie Dalton and Zachary Webber killed it! Highly recommend x
I love Sarina Bowen’s ‘True North’ series and when I heard Rickie was getting his own book, I couldn’t wait. Then I realized his love interest was Daphne Shipley and I was even more excited!
Waylaid starts in the summer time while Daphane is home for the summer. Rickie is also there. Rickie is Dylan’s college roommate and decided to come and work at the Shipley farm for the summer. Daphane has met Rickie before, only he doesn’t remember.
Daphane is switching to Dylan’s school and she’s keeping secrets from her family. Rickie has secrets as well. Secrets can’t stay secrets forever. And when they come out there is even more of a connection than these two thought.
Rickie was such a fantastic character and definitely my favorite of the book. He’s been through so much and has his struggles, but he still managed to be lighthearted, sweet, and fun. I liked seeing Daphane’s story from her perspective. She’s the Shipley I liked least in some of the other books, but I like her much more now. Mostly, I really just loved these two together.
I always love reading about the Shipley family and it was amazing to get to see more from some of my favorite characters. The romance between Rickie and Daphane was great and I even liked the bit of suspense and build up we got. Overall this one was very enjoyable and the audio was incredible- Callie Dalton and Zachary Webber killed it! Highly recommend x
Audio book source: Soundwise (audio arc)
Story Rating: 4.5 stars
Narrators: Callie Dalton and Zachary Webber
Narration Rating: 5 stars
Genre: Contemporary Romance
Length: 10h 32m
June 30, 2021
I will be 1000% honest and say I had NO idea who Rickie was when I first read the blurb for Waylaid. My book amnesia is real roughly an hour after I finish a book so the fact that he was Dylan Shipley's roommate and a character in Heartland completely blew my mind. But after reading this book I can honestly tell you that Richard "Rickie" Ralls will NEVER EVER leave my mind again. Girllllllllllllllls let me tell you.. this man is FIRE and will bring alllll the heat and sizzle. Daphne Shipley had no idea what was coming for her!
I absolutely loved Rickie's confidence despite what happened to him. He embraced life and all it had to offer despite feeling like he lost a critical part of himself. Enter Daphne Shipley. Gah! Her prickly nature was a bit off-putting at first but once I knew the reason, I, like Rickie, was all in!! I loved her cautious heart of gold and how the flirty Casanova kept her on her toes. Their connection and attraction could not be denied. Furthermore, Daphne had her own mysterious secrets but I loved how they both allowed themselves to be vulnerable with one another. They were just perfect!
Overall, I loved the flirty banter, attraction, friendship and ultimately their passionate and emotional love story. Ricky and Daphne were amazing and another shining example of Bowen's exceptional True North series! 5 Shipley Gold Stars! ~Ratula ❤
***
Oh Lordy friends. Your hearts aren't ready for Rickie Ralls.
Full disclosure: it took me a while to warm up to Rickie. In that sense, I felt much like Daphne (and honestly, probably would have been just as prickly if I had been in her shoes). I appreciated how her cautiousness didn't make her mean, and also how Rickie's incorrigible flirtatiousness held more depth than I ever would have expected. These two were an unexpected match that took me a while to buy-into, but when I did? I went all in. So far in. My heart is so fiercely attached to them, they may be stuck with it forever.
I am a little bit in awe of how Sarina Bowen pulled that off. At 30% I was like "I'm not so sure about this guy..." and by 70% I was one giant heart eyeball, in a full-on swoon, head-over-heels for this beautifully broken hero. And I kind of love that as flirty and playful as his romance with Daphne was on its face, it held so much unexpected emotional depth. There was an underlying tenderness that took my breath away. A sweetness that filled my heart to bursting. And when the conflict inevitably came (and I felt like I wanted to skim over it because it's always my least favorite part in every book) - it didn't play out the way I expected it to. It was so much better than I could have imagined. And I'm just completely smitten with this entire story.
Seriously. There is some Shipley Magic going on in this book. I've made no secret of how much I adore this family and their dynamic did not disappoint. This is one of my favorite fictional families ever and it felt so good to be back in their crazy, bickering, love-filled world. This family is really something special.
In the end , this story was impossible for me to resist. The blend of Sarina Bowen's mesmerizing storytelling and smart, snappy writing pulls me in every time. With Waylaid she delivered the kind of story I find utterly irresistible - it was interesting, deeply emotional, heartfelt, and sexy. It was perfectly balanced and beautifully written and left my heart feeling satisfied and happy. That's perfection to me, and this was an easy five stars. ~ Shelly, 5 Stars
I absolutely loved Rickie's confidence despite what happened to him. He embraced life and all it had to offer despite feeling like he lost a critical part of himself. Enter Daphne Shipley. Gah! Her prickly nature was a bit off-putting at first but once I knew the reason, I, like Rickie, was all in!! I loved her cautious heart of gold and how the flirty Casanova kept her on her toes. Their connection and attraction could not be denied. Furthermore, Daphne had her own mysterious secrets but I loved how they both allowed themselves to be vulnerable with one another. They were just perfect!
Overall, I loved the flirty banter, attraction, friendship and ultimately their passionate and emotional love story. Ricky and Daphne were amazing and another shining example of Bowen's exceptional True North series! 5 Shipley Gold Stars! ~Ratula ❤
***
Oh Lordy friends. Your hearts aren't ready for Rickie Ralls.
Full disclosure: it took me a while to warm up to Rickie. In that sense, I felt much like Daphne (and honestly, probably would have been just as prickly if I had been in her shoes). I appreciated how her cautiousness didn't make her mean, and also how Rickie's incorrigible flirtatiousness held more depth than I ever would have expected. These two were an unexpected match that took me a while to buy-into, but when I did? I went all in. So far in. My heart is so fiercely attached to them, they may be stuck with it forever.
I am a little bit in awe of how Sarina Bowen pulled that off. At 30% I was like "I'm not so sure about this guy..." and by 70% I was one giant heart eyeball, in a full-on swoon, head-over-heels for this beautifully broken hero. And I kind of love that as flirty and playful as his romance with Daphne was on its face, it held so much unexpected emotional depth. There was an underlying tenderness that took my breath away. A sweetness that filled my heart to bursting. And when the conflict inevitably came (and I felt like I wanted to skim over it because it's always my least favorite part in every book) - it didn't play out the way I expected it to. It was so much better than I could have imagined. And I'm just completely smitten with this entire story.
Seriously. There is some Shipley Magic going on in this book. I've made no secret of how much I adore this family and their dynamic did not disappoint. This is one of my favorite fictional families ever and it felt so good to be back in their crazy, bickering, love-filled world. This family is really something special.
In the end , this story was impossible for me to resist. The blend of Sarina Bowen's mesmerizing storytelling and smart, snappy writing pulls me in every time. With Waylaid she delivered the kind of story I find utterly irresistible - it was interesting, deeply emotional, heartfelt, and sexy. It was perfectly balanced and beautifully written and left my heart feeling satisfied and happy. That's perfection to me, and this was an easy five stars. ~ Shelly, 5 Stars
![Profile Image for Anna [Bran. San. Stan].](/_next/image?url=https%3A%2F%2Fi.gr-assets.com%2Fimages%2FS%2Fcompressed.photo.goodreads.com%2Fusers%2F1593184464i%2F98245866._UX200_CR0%2C0%2C200%2C200_.jpg&w=128&q=75)
January 17, 2022
4.5 pleasant-surprise stars! I wasn’t as excited about the premise - guy forgets meeting girl after head injury - and I was worried we’d have to make it through them meeting for the first time, then an awkward encounter where he doesn’t remember her, but no: We get started in the present and get to see glimpses of the past (three years prior to the story) in flashback chapters.
Sarina Bowen is once again really great with character development and narrative techniques; the writing is fun, the dialogue immersive.
And I really love it when the drama/conflict is in the characters’ lives and not in their relationship: Rickie and Daphne both have shit from their past to deal with. Though that shit is on the darker side of the True North series (like for example Jude’s story in Steadfast), it was not too much drama, just the right amount. This might just be among my new faves of the series and Rickie and Daphne among my fave characters. (Jude and Sophie; Zach; Dave are my other faves).
If you’re interested in reading this: This can absolutely be read as a stand-alone but it might be more enjoyable if you know about the other characters’ backstories.
1 Bittersweet (Griffin Shipley, Audrey) 🌟🌟🌟
2 Steadfast (Jude, Sophie) 🌟🌟🌟🌟
3 Keepsake (Lark, Zach) 🌟🌟🌟🌟
4 Bountiful (Zara Rossi, Dave Beringer) 🌟🌟🌟🌟
5 Speakeasy (Alec Rossi, May Shipley) 🌟🌟🌟🌟
6 Fireworks (Skye, Benito Rossi) 🌟🌟🌟🌟
7 Heartland (Dylan Shipley, Chastity) 🌟🌟🌟
Sarina Bowen is once again really great with character development and narrative techniques; the writing is fun, the dialogue immersive.
And I really love it when the drama/conflict is in the characters’ lives and not in their relationship: Rickie and Daphne both have shit from their past to deal with. Though that shit is on the darker side of the True North series (like for example Jude’s story in Steadfast), it was not too much drama, just the right amount. This might just be among my new faves of the series and Rickie and Daphne among my fave characters. (Jude and Sophie; Zach; Dave are my other faves).
If you’re interested in reading this: This can absolutely be read as a stand-alone but it might be more enjoyable if you know about the other characters’ backstories.
1 Bittersweet (Griffin Shipley, Audrey) 🌟🌟🌟
2 Steadfast (Jude, Sophie) 🌟🌟🌟🌟
3 Keepsake (Lark, Zach) 🌟🌟🌟🌟
4 Bountiful (Zara Rossi, Dave Beringer) 🌟🌟🌟🌟
5 Speakeasy (Alec Rossi, May Shipley) 🌟🌟🌟🌟
6 Fireworks (Skye, Benito Rossi) 🌟🌟🌟🌟
7 Heartland (Dylan Shipley, Chastity) 🌟🌟🌟
September 7, 2025
A bit more dramatic/suspenseful than I prefer, but a fitting end to a good series. I enjoyed the re-read.
September 19, 2021
**Spoiler Alert**
I’m sure it’s a me thing because this story made no sense. So Rickie and Daphne both got their lives derailed by the same guy yet said guy was never held accountable? Then what was the point?!!
December 31, 2021
It has been a while since I read this series. I barely remember the previous book I read. Waylaid is... disappointment. I feel like the focus of the story is everywhere. The slow burn is too slow and Miss Bowen does not adding plot/ twist/ clue to make the book more interesting. Mind you, the length of the audiobook is 10 hours long.
I rate this book 3 stars because of Rickie. Now he is a sweetheart. Through and through. I think Rickie is the only aspect of this book that I like. Even sometimes I too got frustrated with his amnesia. I love his tender affection toward Daphne. Sadly Daphne is just OK heroine. But thank God not overly dramatic.
3 stars
I rate this book 3 stars because of Rickie. Now he is a sweetheart. Through and through. I think Rickie is the only aspect of this book that I like. Even sometimes I too got frustrated with his amnesia. I love his tender affection toward Daphne. Sadly Daphne is just OK heroine. But thank God not overly dramatic.
3 stars
July 21, 2021
Did I just read my favorite hero of this series? Yes, yes, I think I did. Well, he’s at least a very close second to my Griff/Jude tie, that’s for sure. I was really looking forward to reading Daphne’s story, but also getting Rickie’s was just the cherry on top of this delicious hand-churned in Vermont artisanal ice cream sundae.
Daphne is the youngest daughter of the Shipley clan. Her life is in a bit of disarray after leaving one college to avoid a scandal and is in the process of moving to another, but she’s back at the farm for the summer in the meantime. She’s keeping secrets, and she’s stuck working with a guy who only seems to know how to flirt.
Rickie is Dylan’s roommate from college, and up until now, he’s been an enigma for the Shipley’s. He’s charismatic and charming, but Daphne won’t give him the time of day. It might have something to do with the fact that he ghosted her a few years ago, but he has a very good reason for that—and it turns out that Daphne isn’t the only one keeping secrets.
First of all, kudos to Sarina Bowen for her ability to make the reader care about characters who acted in less than admirable ways in the past. Daphne wasn’t always likable previously, but you can’t help but feel for her and her situation in Waylaid.
Secondly, I also like that we’re getting more suspenseful storylines in Bowen’s recent books. Rickie’s past is a mystery to both the reader and the character, which makes for an interesting dynamic to the story.
I loved Rickie and Daphne together as a couple, and watching them grow and deal with their problems together was the best part of their relationship. They both needed closure on multiple fronts, so seeing that all come to fruition is a rewarding conclusion.
I adore the True North series and am always happy to pull up a seat at the Shipley family table. Seeing past favorites continue to thrive, like Mrs. Shipley and Grandpa Shipley, just layers on another element of ‘coming home’ in this addition to the series.
Callie Dalton and Zachary Webber do an amazing job of bringing Rickie and Daphne’s story to life. As the listener, you can feel the emotion of the scenes, from the sadness to the stressfulness to the relief, and ultimately, the happiness. I can’t think of better narrators to tell this story.
If you haven’t met the Shipleys and all of their friends, you should definitely rectify that situation! You definitely start with this book as it is a standalone, but I would recommend going back to the beginning with Bittersweet to get the full effect.
▸ ARC generously provided in exchange for an honest review.
▸ Purchase: Amazon US | Audible
▸ For more reviews, visit http://www.totallybex.com
Daphne is the youngest daughter of the Shipley clan. Her life is in a bit of disarray after leaving one college to avoid a scandal and is in the process of moving to another, but she’s back at the farm for the summer in the meantime. She’s keeping secrets, and she’s stuck working with a guy who only seems to know how to flirt.
Rickie is Dylan’s roommate from college, and up until now, he’s been an enigma for the Shipley’s. He’s charismatic and charming, but Daphne won’t give him the time of day. It might have something to do with the fact that he ghosted her a few years ago, but he has a very good reason for that—and it turns out that Daphne isn’t the only one keeping secrets.
First of all, kudos to Sarina Bowen for her ability to make the reader care about characters who acted in less than admirable ways in the past. Daphne wasn’t always likable previously, but you can’t help but feel for her and her situation in Waylaid.
Secondly, I also like that we’re getting more suspenseful storylines in Bowen’s recent books. Rickie’s past is a mystery to both the reader and the character, which makes for an interesting dynamic to the story.
I loved Rickie and Daphne together as a couple, and watching them grow and deal with their problems together was the best part of their relationship. They both needed closure on multiple fronts, so seeing that all come to fruition is a rewarding conclusion.
I adore the True North series and am always happy to pull up a seat at the Shipley family table. Seeing past favorites continue to thrive, like Mrs. Shipley and Grandpa Shipley, just layers on another element of ‘coming home’ in this addition to the series.
Callie Dalton and Zachary Webber do an amazing job of bringing Rickie and Daphne’s story to life. As the listener, you can feel the emotion of the scenes, from the sadness to the stressfulness to the relief, and ultimately, the happiness. I can’t think of better narrators to tell this story.
If you haven’t met the Shipleys and all of their friends, you should definitely rectify that situation! You definitely start with this book as it is a standalone, but I would recommend going back to the beginning with Bittersweet to get the full effect.
▸ ARC generously provided in exchange for an honest review.
▸ Purchase: Amazon US | Audible
▸ For more reviews, visit http://www.totallybex.com
December 25, 2022
Loved every second of it. And I was glad I was wrong about Rickie...
July 21, 2021
oh my that was so emotional… i need a moment to recover
rtc
******
7/19/21
this comes out tomorrow and im literally shaking i’m so excited
rtc
******
7/19/21
this comes out tomorrow and im literally shaking i’m so excited
March 12, 2022
Wo, wow, wow!!! 😳
Definitiv ein absolutes Highlight!!! 🎉
Sarina Bowen hat hier eine absolut geniale, eigenständige, spannende und gefühlvolle Liebesgeschichte geschrieben.
Nicht 0815, sondern einfach ganz ganz besonders. ❤️
Von den Charakteren bis zu den einzelnen Handlungssträngen hat alles gepasst.
Mir fehlen noch etwas die Worte. Jeder, der gerne Romance liest, sollte dieses Buch lesen!!!
Definitiv ein absolutes Highlight!!! 🎉
Sarina Bowen hat hier eine absolut geniale, eigenständige, spannende und gefühlvolle Liebesgeschichte geschrieben.
Nicht 0815, sondern einfach ganz ganz besonders. ❤️
Von den Charakteren bis zu den einzelnen Handlungssträngen hat alles gepasst.
Mir fehlen noch etwas die Worte. Jeder, der gerne Romance liest, sollte dieses Buch lesen!!!
August 29, 2022
4.5 Piecing Everything Together Stars
* * * * 1/2 Spoiler Free
There is nothing I like more than books that give me the sense of knowing the families and people intimately. Sarina Bowen created The Shipley family and when she did, these characters could have walked right off the page and been one of your best friends. To bring that type of life to characters and the surrounding locations is a rare talent. Waylaid is the 8th book in the True North series and it did not disappoint.
In this book, we have Rye and Daphne doing the relationship interest dance. Daphne can't stop looking at Rye and being annoyed she is...Rye is very interested in Daphne and doesn't get what he may have done wrong to be on her bad side. Our location is the Shipley farm and everyone in the Shipley circle comes and goes.
This is a love story for sure but is also a story that touches on serious issues at the forefront of our times. Both of these people are hiding personal issues they are dealing with and when they finally decide to reveal what they have been hiding, we feel so much for both of them.
It takes great strength to have your path upended due to no fault of your own and not shrink from dealing with the remnants. Both of these people found the wherewithal, rose, and tackled what needed to be done to "get on with their lives".
There was a sweetness, a push/pull, and a mature understanding that Rye and Daphne had to figure out how to deal with what had happened in the past. There may have been a hiccup or two but in the end, a huge smile graced my lips. Love those Shipleys.
Bittersweet (True North, #1)
https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
Steadfast (True North, #2)
https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
Keepsake (True North #3)
https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
Bountiful (True North #4)
https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
Speakeasy (True North, #5)
https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
Fireworks (True North, #6)
https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
Heartland (True North, #7)
https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
Waylaid (True North, #8)
https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
~~~~~ Before Reading ~~~~~
April 28, 2021
Have You Seen This Cover....YUM!
April 19, 2021-Daphne and Rickie's Book
Once Upon A Time...
Two People Spent Critical Time Together...
Six Hours That Meant Something To Each...
A Promise Was Made, Another Meeting Scheduled...
Only It Never Took Place...
She Was There...
He Wasn't...
Little Did Either Know The Why...
Of What Happened Those Past Years...
Now They Are Meeting Again...
At Least For Her...
It Registers As A Second Time...
She Knows of What Came Before...
And What Has Been Her Past...
He Is Having Memory Gaps For Good Reasons...
She Decides To Enjoy What's Offered...
It Can All Be Fun And Games...
Until The Past Causes It To Be...
Waylaid-July 20, 2021
For more Reviews, Free E-books and Giveaways
* * * * 1/2 Spoiler Free
There is nothing I like more than books that give me the sense of knowing the families and people intimately. Sarina Bowen created The Shipley family and when she did, these characters could have walked right off the page and been one of your best friends. To bring that type of life to characters and the surrounding locations is a rare talent. Waylaid is the 8th book in the True North series and it did not disappoint.
In this book, we have Rye and Daphne doing the relationship interest dance. Daphne can't stop looking at Rye and being annoyed she is...Rye is very interested in Daphne and doesn't get what he may have done wrong to be on her bad side. Our location is the Shipley farm and everyone in the Shipley circle comes and goes.
This is a love story for sure but is also a story that touches on serious issues at the forefront of our times. Both of these people are hiding personal issues they are dealing with and when they finally decide to reveal what they have been hiding, we feel so much for both of them.
It takes great strength to have your path upended due to no fault of your own and not shrink from dealing with the remnants. Both of these people found the wherewithal, rose, and tackled what needed to be done to "get on with their lives".
There was a sweetness, a push/pull, and a mature understanding that Rye and Daphne had to figure out how to deal with what had happened in the past. There may have been a hiccup or two but in the end, a huge smile graced my lips. Love those Shipleys.
Bittersweet (True North, #1)https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
Steadfast (True North, #2)https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
Keepsake (True North #3) https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
Bountiful (True North #4) https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
Speakeasy (True North, #5)https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
Fireworks (True North, #6)https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
Heartland (True North, #7)https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
Waylaid (True North, #8) https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
~~~~~ Before Reading ~~~~~
April 28, 2021
Have You Seen This Cover....YUM!
April 19, 2021-Daphne and Rickie's Book
Once Upon A Time...
Two People Spent Critical Time Together...
Six Hours That Meant Something To Each...
A Promise Was Made, Another Meeting Scheduled...
Only It Never Took Place...
She Was There...
He Wasn't...
Little Did Either Know The Why...
Of What Happened Those Past Years...
Now They Are Meeting Again...
At Least For Her...
It Registers As A Second Time...
She Knows of What Came Before...
And What Has Been Her Past...
He Is Having Memory Gaps For Good Reasons...
She Decides To Enjoy What's Offered...
It Can All Be Fun And Games...
Until The Past Causes It To Be...
Waylaid-July 20, 2021
For more Reviews, Free E-books and Giveaways
July 18, 2021
TITLE: WAYLAID
AUTHOR: Sarina Bowen
SERIES: True North #9
RELEASE DATE: July 20, 2021
GENRE: New Adult
TROPES: Memory Loss, PTSD
NARRATORS: Callie Dalton, Zachary Webber
LENGTH: 10 hrs and 32 mins
RATING: 5 Stars
CLIFFHANGER: No
The True North series gives me the warm fuzzies. Spending time with the Shipleys is such a treat for me. This time around Dylan's twin sister Daphne meets her match and let me tell you, Rickie is one of my top favorite heroes in this series. There is something so sexy about a man who knows what he wants.
Rickie works on the Shipleys' farm over the summer full time. The only Shipley who doesn't fall under his spell is Daphne and he can't quite figure out why. He's a natural charmer but Daphne is a hard nut to crack.
Bad boys are...bad for Daphne's soul, especially after being burned by an elitist douchebag. Rickie is just another distraction she can't afford. Also, the guy stood her up and Daphne can hold a grudge like a champion. She is a planner and after the disaster at Harkness she has her future mapped out and a guy like Rickie doesn't have room in it.
I adored Rickie's easy-going nature, despite his memory issues and the psychological issues that come with it. He has no recollection of the details how he ended up losing a whole year of his life. And when Daphne realizes that he can't remember having her stood up a tentative friendship begins and that was the part I loved most. Their friendship was so honest and it showed the depth Rickie actually had. He was super-smart, thoughtful and sweet. He was 100% committed to win Daphne over. Daphne was just as smart. She made some bad calls in previous books but the impression I had of her made a 180 in her own story. Sarina Bowen is good at that. I really loved her, prickly, snarky nature and all. She got over her and Rickie's issues quickly, once she understood what happened to him. I love their flashbacks to when they first met because it showed their instant and easy connection.
As per usual we get to visit with all the other Shipleys and that's always a joy. What tickled me silly was grandpa dating two women at the same time. That man is hilarious and always good for a one-liner that'll crack you up.
I loved everything about this audiobook. Not only is the narration buy two of my favorites, Zachary Webber and Callie Dalton top notch - they are two of my favorite narrators and staples among audiobook narrators - the story is just heartwarming and emotional. It's also sweet, sexy, cute and fun. I was a big dollop of "AWWW" when I finished. I can't recommend this enough.
September 20, 2022
This is eighth in a romance series and it's located at the Shipley family farm. So lots of couples from the others are present and active in this one. Further, Daphne was a bit of a pill in some of the other books, including a rather dramatic piece against May in Speakeasy. You don't have to read the others first, I don't think, as Bowen provides adequate context for everything, but I liked knowing who everyone was.
I liked Rickie in the previous book, and his obviously painful backstory. I'm glad he's not a brooder, because heaven knows he has enough painful backstory to supply an entire season of a vampire TV show. So I liked his attitude and his pursuit of Daphne, the girl he is drawn to but can't remember.
Daphne was fine. She has matured, and that's good, and I like that she's starting to see the good parts of being a Shipley and even embracing her family. And I liked seeing her warm to Rickie's charm and let him drag her out of herself in all the important ways. There's a subtle working about their relationship that Bowen pulled off very neatly, too, by showing how Rickie had no trouble keeping up with the very smart and driven Daphne—and that he just didn't make a big deal about it while he did so.
And I really liked Rickie's version of egoless self-assurance. He's self-confident in a way that supports those around him and doesn't feel the need to take over all the time. It was nice and I liked him a lot.
I'm not much of a fan of the plot, though. There were some obvious aspects of Rickie's trauma that weren't hard to guess () and for a smart guy he was kind of dumb in some ways. Like, he should have figured out that spoiler thing even if he didn't know it was narratively essential because he is a romantic lead.
And I think it was a little cheap to have them essentially switch places relationship wise in a pseudo dark moment towards the end. I did like the resultant communication and how they worked things out. I near cheered when Daphne set him straight about where she stood and the emphasis on being a team is always dear to my heart. So it resolved well for all I wasn't impressed for a while.
In all, I think this is four stars. Or, at least I got four stars of entertainment out of it. And special kudos for on-page sympathetic therapy that was unusual, but also genuine.
A note about Steamy: There were a couple of explicit sex scenes putting this in the middle of my steam tolerance. They actually supported the story very well, but that's not a surprise with Bowen.
I liked Rickie in the previous book, and his obviously painful backstory. I'm glad he's not a brooder, because heaven knows he has enough painful backstory to supply an entire season of a vampire TV show. So I liked his attitude and his pursuit of Daphne, the girl he is drawn to but can't remember.
Daphne was fine. She has matured, and that's good, and I like that she's starting to see the good parts of being a Shipley and even embracing her family. And I liked seeing her warm to Rickie's charm and let him drag her out of herself in all the important ways. There's a subtle working about their relationship that Bowen pulled off very neatly, too, by showing how Rickie had no trouble keeping up with the very smart and driven Daphne—and that he just didn't make a big deal about it while he did so.
And I really liked Rickie's version of egoless self-assurance. He's self-confident in a way that supports those around him and doesn't feel the need to take over all the time. It was nice and I liked him a lot.
I'm not much of a fan of the plot, though. There were some obvious aspects of Rickie's trauma that weren't hard to guess () and for a smart guy he was kind of dumb in some ways. Like, he should have figured out that spoiler thing even if he didn't know it was narratively essential because he is a romantic lead.
And I think it was a little cheap to have them essentially switch places relationship wise in a pseudo dark moment towards the end. I did like the resultant communication and how they worked things out. I near cheered when Daphne set him straight about where she stood and the emphasis on being a team is always dear to my heart. So it resolved well for all I wasn't impressed for a while.
In all, I think this is four stars. Or, at least I got four stars of entertainment out of it. And special kudos for on-page sympathetic therapy that was unusual, but also genuine.
A note about Steamy: There were a couple of explicit sex scenes putting this in the middle of my steam tolerance. They actually supported the story very well, but that's not a surprise with Bowen.
July 19, 2021
Listening to an arc narrated by some of my favorites: Callie Dalton and Zachary Webber!
📌Releasing July 20th! Pre-order your copy today!
Amazon: https://geni.us/AmazonWaylaid
Apple: https://geni.us/AppleWaylaid
Kobo: https://geni.us/KoboWaylaid
Nook: https://geni.us/NookWaylaid
Review: Definitely one of the best in the series, I really enjoyed this one. This college romance features Daphne (Dylan's twin) and Rickie (Dylan's roommate) whom we met in the last book Heartland. What an intense and fulfilling ride. I was on pins and needles wanting to find out how this story would play out. I was very happy with both characters' growth and how they worked hard to live their own respective truths. I loved the narrators for this story. They were able to properly convey the tone of the characters whether it was emotional or cheeky banter. Plus, Callie Dalton and Zachary Webber sound good together so they increased my enjoyment of this audiobook.
Waylaid was a bit angsty because both main characters were struggling with an event that traumatized them but they were dealing with the trauma in different ways. Daphne's choice is to ignore her pain, compartmentalize her issues and buckle down harder on her jobs while Rickie can't remember his event at all. Instead he turns on the charm on everyone including Daphne, determined to see if he can at least reclaim the "playboy" side of his persona.
Daphne and Rickie worked well together because there was a playful note to their friendship and later as a couple. The humorous banter helped soften the blows on the heavy emotional issue that Rickie was suffering from. The causal acceptance by the rest of the Shipley family provided a base of support that was healing for both Daphne and Rickie. What was really cool was that ALL of the Shipley gang were getting some kind of romance/love with another person in this story. This is one of my favorites in the series.
If you are a fan a of the Shipley family then you are in for more of the same kind of goodness and family support and jokes.
📌Releasing July 20th! Pre-order your copy today!
Amazon: https://geni.us/AmazonWaylaid
Apple: https://geni.us/AppleWaylaid
Kobo: https://geni.us/KoboWaylaid
Nook: https://geni.us/NookWaylaid
Review: Definitely one of the best in the series, I really enjoyed this one. This college romance features Daphne (Dylan's twin) and Rickie (Dylan's roommate) whom we met in the last book Heartland. What an intense and fulfilling ride. I was on pins and needles wanting to find out how this story would play out. I was very happy with both characters' growth and how they worked hard to live their own respective truths. I loved the narrators for this story. They were able to properly convey the tone of the characters whether it was emotional or cheeky banter. Plus, Callie Dalton and Zachary Webber sound good together so they increased my enjoyment of this audiobook.
Waylaid was a bit angsty because both main characters were struggling with an event that traumatized them but they were dealing with the trauma in different ways. Daphne's choice is to ignore her pain, compartmentalize her issues and buckle down harder on her jobs while Rickie can't remember his event at all. Instead he turns on the charm on everyone including Daphne, determined to see if he can at least reclaim the "playboy" side of his persona.
Daphne and Rickie worked well together because there was a playful note to their friendship and later as a couple. The humorous banter helped soften the blows on the heavy emotional issue that Rickie was suffering from. The causal acceptance by the rest of the Shipley family provided a base of support that was healing for both Daphne and Rickie. What was really cool was that ALL of the Shipley gang were getting some kind of romance/love with another person in this story. This is one of my favorites in the series.
If you are a fan a of the Shipley family then you are in for more of the same kind of goodness and family support and jokes.
July 21, 2021
I’m not super well versed in the True North series (or Heartland, the book where others met Rickie), but I’ve loved the Sarina Bowen books I’ve read, and I’m a sucker for bad boy-good girl story lines, so I dove right in- and I just adored it.
Waylaid had all that I’ve loved about other Sarina Bowen stories- it’s got depth, a real emotional complexity, while also being highly consumptive and deliciously sexy. And, the story was just so well written- told with ease and charisma. This is the kind of romance I like to sink my teeth into.
Rickie so YUMMY as our leading man- and full of so many layers and nuances. The quintessential flirty popular “bad boy”- but also a man struggling with an unusual challenge that has made him lose a sense of himself. He grew to be so swoony- and I loved how committed and sweet he was in his pursuit of Daphne, even if he didn’t understand at first just why she was so cold and resistant. Daphne may have been harder to love at first and was stubborn in her denial of swoony Rickie, but she won me over completely. She’s that type-A prickly stand-offish good girl, but once we understand just why she acts the way she does, we see the beauty of her heart. Their connection is delicious and so well constructed- and I loved how they found a path to vulnerability and honesty.
They are just adorably matched- despite their conflicts and on the surface differences. We have a flirty and sexy romance, but one with such a meaningful emotional underpinning. This romance is as tender and meaningful as it is fun and sexy, a romance charming and sincere. Great chemistry, fun flirty banter, that opposites attract good girl/bad boy charm, lovable side characters, and just the right amount of romantic tension. What a delightful escape!
Waylaid had all that I’ve loved about other Sarina Bowen stories- it’s got depth, a real emotional complexity, while also being highly consumptive and deliciously sexy. And, the story was just so well written- told with ease and charisma. This is the kind of romance I like to sink my teeth into.
Rickie so YUMMY as our leading man- and full of so many layers and nuances. The quintessential flirty popular “bad boy”- but also a man struggling with an unusual challenge that has made him lose a sense of himself. He grew to be so swoony- and I loved how committed and sweet he was in his pursuit of Daphne, even if he didn’t understand at first just why she was so cold and resistant. Daphne may have been harder to love at first and was stubborn in her denial of swoony Rickie, but she won me over completely. She’s that type-A prickly stand-offish good girl, but once we understand just why she acts the way she does, we see the beauty of her heart. Their connection is delicious and so well constructed- and I loved how they found a path to vulnerability and honesty.
They are just adorably matched- despite their conflicts and on the surface differences. We have a flirty and sexy romance, but one with such a meaningful emotional underpinning. This romance is as tender and meaningful as it is fun and sexy, a romance charming and sincere. Great chemistry, fun flirty banter, that opposites attract good girl/bad boy charm, lovable side characters, and just the right amount of romantic tension. What a delightful escape!
July 20, 2021
🍨🍎🐔🍏🍎🐄🍏🍎🍨🍎🍏🐄🍎🍏🐔🍎🍨
Daphne + Rickie.
We all remember them from previous books. But this is obviously a standalone!
It's the summer and Rickie is staying at his roommate Dylan Shipley's farm to work and to save some money by renting out his house in Burlington.
Daphne is also back home from her fancy college - she's going to Moo U after the summer too.
But why? What happened to her back there?
And what happened to Rickie? Why can't he remember that he met Daphne before??
Whatever it is ... it definitely doesn't stop him from flirting with her like crazy!
Let the fun times begin ...
══════════════════
This book was just as beautiful and adorable and funny and sweet and sexy and heartbreaking and farmish and Vermontish as all the other books in this amazing series!
It started a tiny little bit confusing for me. I'm not even sure why though. I read the blurb and then started reading and it didn't really fit with what I just read about the story... but it got better really fast.
You just have to love this world. The Shipleys and everything Vermont!
I want to move there and join the family dinners and drink Griffin's cider all day long!
I just read the following in my review for the last book in this series - Dylan's book:
I loved this book. I loved alll the people - the Shipley's and the neighbors and Dylan's roommate Rickie! I so need to read his book next please!
(Did anyone else get massive Win from the Myron Bolitar series by Harlan Coben vibes from Rickie??)
I never want this series to end!
Now that I read Rickie's book ... the Win vibes got a bit lost for me. I still loved him and he's still amazing, but he's also just way too jokey flirty silly for my tastes.
Which doesn't mean that I hated Rickie and his book. NO! I loved him!
He's using all his charm and fun flirting to cover up his pain. Poor guy.
Rickie and Daphne's story was great!
It was funny, sweet, frustrating, mysterious, dangerous, scary, sexy. Really interesting and exciting. I loved reading it!
What else it there to say.... I just love this series. I loved this 8th story. I never want this series to end. And I need these books to be on Netflix asap! PLEASE!
WAYLAID was such an adorable + beautiful + funny + sexy + collegy + vermonty + farmy + exciting love story! I just adored it! Run to your nearest amazon for your own Rickie - he'll be sold out in no time!😎
💜
💜
Daphne + Rickie.
We all remember them from previous books. But this is obviously a standalone!
It's the summer and Rickie is staying at his roommate Dylan Shipley's farm to work and to save some money by renting out his house in Burlington.
Daphne is also back home from her fancy college - she's going to Moo U after the summer too.
But why? What happened to her back there?
And what happened to Rickie? Why can't he remember that he met Daphne before??
Whatever it is ... it definitely doesn't stop him from flirting with her like crazy!
Let the fun times begin ...
══════════════════
This book was just as beautiful and adorable and funny and sweet and sexy and heartbreaking and farmish and Vermontish as all the other books in this amazing series!
It started a tiny little bit confusing for me. I'm not even sure why though. I read the blurb and then started reading and it didn't really fit with what I just read about the story... but it got better really fast.
You just have to love this world. The Shipleys and everything Vermont!
I want to move there and join the family dinners and drink Griffin's cider all day long!
I just read the following in my review for the last book in this series - Dylan's book:
I loved this book. I loved alll the people - the Shipley's and the neighbors and Dylan's roommate Rickie! I so need to read his book next please!
(Did anyone else get massive Win from the Myron Bolitar series by Harlan Coben vibes from Rickie??)
I never want this series to end!
Now that I read Rickie's book ... the Win vibes got a bit lost for me. I still loved him and he's still amazing, but he's also just way too jokey flirty silly for my tastes.
Which doesn't mean that I hated Rickie and his book. NO! I loved him!
He's using all his charm and fun flirting to cover up his pain. Poor guy.
Rickie and Daphne's story was great!
It was funny, sweet, frustrating, mysterious, dangerous, scary, sexy. Really interesting and exciting. I loved reading it!
What else it there to say.... I just love this series. I loved this 8th story. I never want this series to end. And I need these books to be on Netflix asap! PLEASE!
WAYLAID was such an adorable + beautiful + funny + sexy + collegy + vermonty + farmy + exciting love story! I just adored it! Run to your nearest amazon for your own Rickie - he'll be sold out in no time!😎
💜
💜
July 23, 2021
I’ve been spending a lot of time recently in the world of True North with all of the awesome books that have been released by various authors. But it has been over a year since we got Dylan and Chastity’s book and to be honest, I don’t really remember a lot of their story. So, I feel like I have almost read this as a standalone and all I really want to do is curl up in a ball and do a massive reread.
To be honest I read the first fifteen percent of this book trying to figure out what I could remember from the rest of the series and some of it came back to me but a huge part of it was still very mysterious. And it took me quite some time to realise that this was because there was a mystery to be solved and not because of my goldfish memory and then I was sucked in so hard.
I really wasn’t able to put the book down because despite the mystery I had a pretty solid idea of what was going on. I just didn’t know how it was all going to play out and if there was going to be a bang or a fizzle when all of that knowledge was revealed and remembered. Daphne we obviously knew from all of her siblings and cousin’s stories and there was a drama with her in May’s book way back when, but I couldn’t remember much about her. She came across as a little cold and maybe a little stuck up but that was just her past and her intelligence.
Once I realised who Rickie was, I was dying to know what his background story was. Because he was simply perfect. Every time he opened his mouth the sweetest things poured out and he was dealing with so much, but he was still so worried about Daphne. I couldn’t wait to see what had happened in his past to cause his memory loss and how he was going to deal with it. And he didn’t disappoint.
The whole book was awesome and everything you can expect from a True North book from the wonderful Sarina Bowen. And I am dying to get my grabby hands on Boyfriend when it’s rereleased.
To be honest I read the first fifteen percent of this book trying to figure out what I could remember from the rest of the series and some of it came back to me but a huge part of it was still very mysterious. And it took me quite some time to realise that this was because there was a mystery to be solved and not because of my goldfish memory and then I was sucked in so hard.
I really wasn’t able to put the book down because despite the mystery I had a pretty solid idea of what was going on. I just didn’t know how it was all going to play out and if there was going to be a bang or a fizzle when all of that knowledge was revealed and remembered. Daphne we obviously knew from all of her siblings and cousin’s stories and there was a drama with her in May’s book way back when, but I couldn’t remember much about her. She came across as a little cold and maybe a little stuck up but that was just her past and her intelligence.
Once I realised who Rickie was, I was dying to know what his background story was. Because he was simply perfect. Every time he opened his mouth the sweetest things poured out and he was dealing with so much, but he was still so worried about Daphne. I couldn’t wait to see what had happened in his past to cause his memory loss and how he was going to deal with it. And he didn’t disappoint.
The whole book was awesome and everything you can expect from a True North book from the wonderful Sarina Bowen. And I am dying to get my grabby hands on Boyfriend when it’s rereleased.
July 16, 2021
Waylaid is the eighth book in the True North series by Sarina Bowen. I haven't read all of the True North books, but I do know Daphne and Rickie and oh my Lord! I didn't even know this was the story I needed in my life! This is going to be a hard review to write because of all the potential spoilers. Rickie is working on the Shipley farm for the summer and he's instantly attracted to Daphne, but she wants nothing to do with him. He doesn't understand why. He's a nice guy, super attractive and funny. What's not to like? Until he finds out they have met before but he doesn't remember. He lost so many memories and one of them was Daphne. He's determined to get back in her good graces by using his natural charm. Daphne doesn't want to like Rickie, but she can't help herself. He's just too likable. When he shares his secrets and she shares hers, they have more in common than they thought. Now they can fight together against the past instead of with each other. I couldn't love this story more!! Rickie was freaking awesome! I had the pleasure of listening to the audio and Zachary Webber was fantastic. Daphne is so funny with her smarts and sass and Callie Dalton did a great job! Overall, I loved ever second of it! Rickie is funny, sexy, smart and everything. Daphne is brilliant, snarky and learning about herself. I loved seeing the Shipleys again. They are one of my favorite fictional families!
September 12, 2025
Waylaid is the eighth book in the True North series, but it can be read as a complete standalone. Daphne and Rickie’s story definitely stands by itself, but I would be doing the world a disservice if I didn’t recommend all the books in this series. They are all outstanding. They own my heart and soul.
To say I loved Waylaid is an understatement. It left me speechless and absolutely impressed. It is such a beautiful story. It gave me all the feels! I was hooked from the very first page, and I couldn’t put it down. I loved everything about it. The storyline is compelling and twisty. There’s a bit of suspense to keep one guessing, and it’s highly entertaining, sweetly romantic, and deliciously steamy. The chemistry between Daphne and Rickie is explosive, and their banter is sizzling and witty. It’s perfection.
Rickie is the perfect book boyfriend. He’s the perfect combination of sweet and spice. He’s a mysterious and eccentric tattooed bad boy with a wicked mouth and a heart of gold. He’s sweet and dirty-minded at the same time, highly intelligent and adoringly charming. He has an old, wounded soul and an upbeat attitude. He’s lonely, though. And extremely talented in hiding his feelings. He has it bad for Daphne, and is determined to charm her into bed. And he has secrets.
Daphne is not buying whatever it is that Rickie is selling, though. She’s the odd Shipley. She’s not farmer material, for starters. She feels like she doesn’t quite fit in her family. She has a badass attitude and ambitious goals, but she’s hiding a bruised heart. She’s going through a tough time, keeping secrets and appearances. She’s determined to right her mistakes, one way or another, but she wasn’t counting on Rickie to come back into her life. She’s trying her best to act as nonchalant as possible when it comes to him, but she’s not very successful.
Rickie recognized Daphne the moment he saw her. But he has no idea when or where they first met. Daphne didn’t recognize him at first, but when she does, she decides to stay away from him. The problem is that he’s basically irresistible, and now they’re roommates at the Shipley Farm. Rickie is working there for the summer, and Daphne is back home after leaving Harkness College and transferring to Moo U for her senior year.
I loved Daphne and Rickie together. They are two lost souls that find solace in each other. They help each other heal and become whole again. They discover that they have not only an incendiary chemistry that cannot be contained, but also a soul-deep connection. They’re kindred spirits. And their relationship journey from frenemies to friends to lovers is a truly beautiful thing to watch.
This book is wonderful in so many ways. The setting is always a delight. There’s nothing quite like Sarina Bowen’s Vermont. It’s has the perfect small town vibe. Both Burlington or Colebury have that magic Vermonty feel, and the Shipley farm is always a great place to visit. And watching Rickie keep up with Daphne and Dylan was extremely entertaining.
Lenore, Rickie’s psychologist, stole the show along with Grandpa Shipley, who’s always a hoot. Lenore is an awesome character, and her interactions with Rickie gave his character a lot of depth.
The Shipleys are such a great family. They’re like old friends you want to hang out with all the time, so it was great to spend time with them again. It was great to catch up with May, Audrey, Griffin, Ruth and Dylan. There were big news from some of them, and I cannot wait for more books in this series. I honestly cannot get enough of them.
To say I loved Waylaid is an understatement. It left me speechless and absolutely impressed. It is such a beautiful story. It gave me all the feels! I was hooked from the very first page, and I couldn’t put it down. I loved everything about it. The storyline is compelling and twisty. There’s a bit of suspense to keep one guessing, and it’s highly entertaining, sweetly romantic, and deliciously steamy. The chemistry between Daphne and Rickie is explosive, and their banter is sizzling and witty. It’s perfection.
Rickie is the perfect book boyfriend. He’s the perfect combination of sweet and spice. He’s a mysterious and eccentric tattooed bad boy with a wicked mouth and a heart of gold. He’s sweet and dirty-minded at the same time, highly intelligent and adoringly charming. He has an old, wounded soul and an upbeat attitude. He’s lonely, though. And extremely talented in hiding his feelings. He has it bad for Daphne, and is determined to charm her into bed. And he has secrets.
Daphne is not buying whatever it is that Rickie is selling, though. She’s the odd Shipley. She’s not farmer material, for starters. She feels like she doesn’t quite fit in her family. She has a badass attitude and ambitious goals, but she’s hiding a bruised heart. She’s going through a tough time, keeping secrets and appearances. She’s determined to right her mistakes, one way or another, but she wasn’t counting on Rickie to come back into her life. She’s trying her best to act as nonchalant as possible when it comes to him, but she’s not very successful.
Rickie recognized Daphne the moment he saw her. But he has no idea when or where they first met. Daphne didn’t recognize him at first, but when she does, she decides to stay away from him. The problem is that he’s basically irresistible, and now they’re roommates at the Shipley Farm. Rickie is working there for the summer, and Daphne is back home after leaving Harkness College and transferring to Moo U for her senior year.
I loved Daphne and Rickie together. They are two lost souls that find solace in each other. They help each other heal and become whole again. They discover that they have not only an incendiary chemistry that cannot be contained, but also a soul-deep connection. They’re kindred spirits. And their relationship journey from frenemies to friends to lovers is a truly beautiful thing to watch.
This book is wonderful in so many ways. The setting is always a delight. There’s nothing quite like Sarina Bowen’s Vermont. It’s has the perfect small town vibe. Both Burlington or Colebury have that magic Vermonty feel, and the Shipley farm is always a great place to visit. And watching Rickie keep up with Daphne and Dylan was extremely entertaining.
Lenore, Rickie’s psychologist, stole the show along with Grandpa Shipley, who’s always a hoot. Lenore is an awesome character, and her interactions with Rickie gave his character a lot of depth.
The Shipleys are such a great family. They’re like old friends you want to hang out with all the time, so it was great to spend time with them again. It was great to catch up with May, Audrey, Griffin, Ruth and Dylan. There were big news from some of them, and I cannot wait for more books in this series. I honestly cannot get enough of them.
July 20, 2021
★4.5 STARS★
The sign of great book boyfriend is when you’re willing to fight other romance readers for him. Ok, in no way do I condone violence, but you see, I’ve longed for Rickie’s story from the moment we were introduced to him in Heartland. Sarina did an incredible job in setting the stage for him. He was the happy go lucky roommate that came nightfall gave off a heavy whiff of mystery and intrigue.
I don’t think there would be many that would disagree that Daphne Shipley may well be the crankiest sibling. It’s her nature to be tough on herself, and the summer before her college transfer has her feeling more miserable than ever. She feels like a failure having gotten herself in a situation that could threaten her schooling and career. She’s resigned to wallow but her brother’s college roommate has other ideas.
Rickie still struggles from an injury that has left him feeling as if he doesn’t know himself, but he’s confident in his feelings for Daphne Shipley. She’s prickly - sure, but she makes him smile (albeit begrudgingly on her part) and brings back a levity that he’s missed.
Waylaid is an incredibly addictive read. Rickie and Daphne have some heavy real life issues to contend with but even so, the wonderful balance of flirtation, passion and titillation of love’s first bloom made certain their story became one of my favourites in the series.
The good girl and the bad boy may well be a tale as old as time, but when the bad boy is Rickie… back off he’s mine!
The sign of great book boyfriend is when you’re willing to fight other romance readers for him. Ok, in no way do I condone violence, but you see, I’ve longed for Rickie’s story from the moment we were introduced to him in Heartland. Sarina did an incredible job in setting the stage for him. He was the happy go lucky roommate that came nightfall gave off a heavy whiff of mystery and intrigue.
I don’t think there would be many that would disagree that Daphne Shipley may well be the crankiest sibling. It’s her nature to be tough on herself, and the summer before her college transfer has her feeling more miserable than ever. She feels like a failure having gotten herself in a situation that could threaten her schooling and career. She’s resigned to wallow but her brother’s college roommate has other ideas.
Rickie still struggles from an injury that has left him feeling as if he doesn’t know himself, but he’s confident in his feelings for Daphne Shipley. She’s prickly - sure, but she makes him smile (albeit begrudgingly on her part) and brings back a levity that he’s missed.
Waylaid is an incredibly addictive read. Rickie and Daphne have some heavy real life issues to contend with but even so, the wonderful balance of flirtation, passion and titillation of love’s first bloom made certain their story became one of my favourites in the series.
The good girl and the bad boy may well be a tale as old as time, but when the bad boy is Rickie… back off he’s mine!
September 1, 2022
This review may contain SPOILERS!
I swear, as far as my reading goes nowadays, I INHALED this story! After the letdown that was "Heartland", I was a bit worried about this follow-up, but since I loved Rickie in the first book I had my hopes up ... and my hopes were justified! I loved Daphne and Rickie, and the yearning, especially on Rickie's part. Phew *fanning*, that was something else, wasn't it! Also, Sarina Bowen truly knows how to write a story with an exciting and secrective sub-plot, where I was totally craving to know what was up. Although, halfway through the novel I kind of figured what was going on, which was incredibly heartbreaking. Nonetheless, on the steamy, sexy, emotional parts I felt as though Rickie was such a unique personality, being so extremely compassionate and patient towards Daphne. While this time around, she was the so-called hothead. Loved it! Rickie is, thus far, definitely my favorite character from the small "spin-off"-couple of books, and I'm also back full force on the "Sarina Bowen"-bandwagon. Lastly, I was also surprised by how much I enjoyed this, cause lately every NA-novel I've read felt just a little off, but this was pure reading joy!
4.5/5 stars
I swear, as far as my reading goes nowadays, I INHALED this story! After the letdown that was "Heartland", I was a bit worried about this follow-up, but since I loved Rickie in the first book I had my hopes up ... and my hopes were justified! I loved Daphne and Rickie, and the yearning, especially on Rickie's part. Phew *fanning*, that was something else, wasn't it! Also, Sarina Bowen truly knows how to write a story with an exciting and secrective sub-plot, where I was totally craving to know what was up. Although, halfway through the novel I kind of figured what was going on, which was incredibly heartbreaking. Nonetheless, on the steamy, sexy, emotional parts I felt as though Rickie was such a unique personality, being so extremely compassionate and patient towards Daphne. While this time around, she was the so-called hothead. Loved it! Rickie is, thus far, definitely my favorite character from the small "spin-off"-couple of books, and I'm also back full force on the "Sarina Bowen"-bandwagon. Lastly, I was also surprised by how much I enjoyed this, cause lately every NA-novel I've read felt just a little off, but this was pure reading joy!
4.5/5 stars
July 13, 2022
Did I like this book or not?! That is the million dollar question. Some parts I like I enjoy Sarina's writing so much.. but the storyline was a bit frustrating. Very slow burn. I will say I love the family aspect in this series love them eating at the table all loving and a hot mess at times. It wasn't a fantastic ending to a series maybe becuz she felt like she would maybe write another book but then didn't.
August 4, 2021
Ah, I loved this SO MUCH! Daphne and Rickie are amazing together and I loved seeing how they got there. Their story even got a bit thrilling and mysterious, which just amped up the experience! I'm so so relieved too, I really hated the last book, Heartland, and was so afraid the series would just go downhill from there.
Happy to report that my fear did not come true and this book is in my top 2 of the series! Hmm, now I wonder if this is the last one? It felt like maybe she was setting up for a spin-off series for Moo U?
Happy to report that my fear did not come true and this book is in my top 2 of the series! Hmm, now I wonder if this is the last one? It felt like maybe she was setting up for a spin-off series for Moo U?
July 20, 2021
This review can also be found at https://carolesrandomlife.com/
I had a great time with this book! I have become a huge fan of Sarina Bowen’s work in recent years so I was really eager to dive into this newest installment in the True North series. I went into this book with really high expectations since I have loved each of the books in the series that I have read thus far and I was not disappointed. This is the 8th book in the True North series but it can also be read as a stand-alone novel. Once I started listening to this book I found it almost impossible to put my headphones aside.
This book tells Daphne and Rickie’s story. Daphne and Rickie have a bit of history together but Rickie doesn’t remember it. Daphne knows that Rickie stood her up for the date that they had planned but she doesn’t know that he suffered memory loss as a result of an injury. With Rickie working at the farm, their paths seem to keep crossing and they are both just as drawn to each other as ever. I loved getting to see them get to know each other and I really thought that they seemed like they fit perfectly together. They both have things from their past that they need to work through but they seem to gain strength from each other.
Callie Dalton and Zachary Webber did a fantastic job with the narration. I have enjoyed Zachary Webber’s work before but I think that this was my first experience with Callie Dalton. I thought that each of the narrators brought their characters to life and I loved how much emotion that they were able to add to the story. I know that their narration added to my overall enjoyment of this story.
I would recommend this book to others. I thought that this book was very well done. I quickly fell in love with the characters and wanted to see things work out for them but I was equally curious about what really happened to cause Rickie to lose his memory. I cannot wait to read more of Sarina Bowen’s work in the future.
I received a digital review copy of this audiobook from the author/publicist.
I had a great time with this book! I have become a huge fan of Sarina Bowen’s work in recent years so I was really eager to dive into this newest installment in the True North series. I went into this book with really high expectations since I have loved each of the books in the series that I have read thus far and I was not disappointed. This is the 8th book in the True North series but it can also be read as a stand-alone novel. Once I started listening to this book I found it almost impossible to put my headphones aside.
This book tells Daphne and Rickie’s story. Daphne and Rickie have a bit of history together but Rickie doesn’t remember it. Daphne knows that Rickie stood her up for the date that they had planned but she doesn’t know that he suffered memory loss as a result of an injury. With Rickie working at the farm, their paths seem to keep crossing and they are both just as drawn to each other as ever. I loved getting to see them get to know each other and I really thought that they seemed like they fit perfectly together. They both have things from their past that they need to work through but they seem to gain strength from each other.
Callie Dalton and Zachary Webber did a fantastic job with the narration. I have enjoyed Zachary Webber’s work before but I think that this was my first experience with Callie Dalton. I thought that each of the narrators brought their characters to life and I loved how much emotion that they were able to add to the story. I know that their narration added to my overall enjoyment of this story.
I would recommend this book to others. I thought that this book was very well done. I quickly fell in love with the characters and wanted to see things work out for them but I was equally curious about what really happened to cause Rickie to lose his memory. I cannot wait to read more of Sarina Bowen’s work in the future.
I received a digital review copy of this audiobook from the author/publicist.
June 21, 2023
Waylaid is a beautiful story.
Sarina Bowen can still surprise me with her elaborate plots, always unique and heartfelt.
Rickie Ralls, Dylan Shipley's housemate, accepted to become a farm helper during the Summer but he didn't have signed up to fall under Daphne's , Dylan's twin sister, spell. It seems like they already met in a previous life and even if Daphne tries to resist to Rickie's charm she is destined to succumb to the strong physical attraction they feel for each other.
I instantly fell in love with Rickie, he is funny, sweet, hot but also vulnerable and I wanted to protect him at all costs and maybe fight the evils in his life. It took me some time to understand Daphne but in the end she is a woman who suffered by a man's hand so she is cautious but when she trusts someone and she lets everything go you can see her beauty.
I really liked to see their bonding grow chapter after chapter, it isn't forced, you can practically feel them falling for each other and wish them a very happily ever after.
Rickie and Daphne were meant to be, they will always have a soft spot in my heart.
Copy kindly provided by the Publisher/Author.
August 5, 2021
4 -4.5 Rickie and Daphne Stars
The True North Series continues with Daphne Shipley's story. Daphne is Dylan's twin sister and they are the youngest of the Shipley clan. Daphne has had her tender young heart bruised before so when she crosses paths again with Rickie , who is also her brother's friend and roommate, she is quick to guard said heart. And guard it she does. But , Rickie is determined to win her over and so begins lots of very fun flirting and some really funny conversations. The opening to this book is really strong and had me hooked. Rickie is from a military family but is adjusting to his Summer helping on the Shipley Farm.
Daphne has grown up on the farm so it all comes very naturally to her. On one occasion she coolly saves him from a bear,
Rickie tells the story of the bear to a rapt audience at the dinner table.
Buttering my corn bread as he weaves the tale , I roll my eyes. A bear on our property is not a big deal. It's just a Tuesday.
And that is how she is. Daphne Shipley is a cool chick who knows what she wants and is driven and determined. And really serious. It was so lovely to see her loosen up through the story and Rickie reads her well. He picks up her cues and 'gets' her , probably better than any of her family. For me , I just didn't really get why Daphne was so angry at the world at times. Maybe I read her wrong but she almost resented her family a lot of the time and yet, she grew up very loved and cared about but she distanced herself physically and emotionally from her siblings. She's is a really well written heroine but it did take me time to warm up to her. That said, once I did then I was really rooting for her.
Rickie is an intriguing hero. He is very easy to like and I loved his sense of humour. The backstory he has is sad and he has experienced something traumatic but he is a very resilient character. The relationship he has with his therapist is one of the best in the book IMO.
There is a delicious slow burn between Daphne and Rickie. The tension builds as hot as the Summer sun and as always with Ms Bowen's writing, it makes for addictive reading. Rickie is a pansexual and heteroromantic , which is the first time I have read a Hero who has said this. He is all about Daphne and she is all about him. He encourages her to loosen up and she is his soft place to fall. Rickie is so loyal and lovely and it made this reader's heart happy to read their story. Plus , I love catching up with the Shipley clan. Sarina Bowen is an awesome author and I swear that when her pen hits the paper , pure magic happens.
I'd highly recommend this book and this series. Reads well as a standalone but you will probably get more from it by reading the others.
I mainly listened to the audio which had fabulous narration by Callie Dalton and Zachary Webber but partly read also.
HEA? More HFN
Cheating? No
Trigger Warning - Sexual assault (off page).
The True North Series continues with Daphne Shipley's story. Daphne is Dylan's twin sister and they are the youngest of the Shipley clan. Daphne has had her tender young heart bruised before so when she crosses paths again with Rickie , who is also her brother's friend and roommate, she is quick to guard said heart. And guard it she does. But , Rickie is determined to win her over and so begins lots of very fun flirting and some really funny conversations. The opening to this book is really strong and had me hooked. Rickie is from a military family but is adjusting to his Summer helping on the Shipley Farm.
Daphne has grown up on the farm so it all comes very naturally to her. On one occasion she coolly saves him from a bear,
Rickie tells the story of the bear to a rapt audience at the dinner table.
Buttering my corn bread as he weaves the tale , I roll my eyes. A bear on our property is not a big deal. It's just a Tuesday.
And that is how she is. Daphne Shipley is a cool chick who knows what she wants and is driven and determined. And really serious. It was so lovely to see her loosen up through the story and Rickie reads her well. He picks up her cues and 'gets' her , probably better than any of her family. For me , I just didn't really get why Daphne was so angry at the world at times. Maybe I read her wrong but she almost resented her family a lot of the time and yet, she grew up very loved and cared about but she distanced herself physically and emotionally from her siblings. She's is a really well written heroine but it did take me time to warm up to her. That said, once I did then I was really rooting for her.
Rickie is an intriguing hero. He is very easy to like and I loved his sense of humour. The backstory he has is sad and he has experienced something traumatic but he is a very resilient character. The relationship he has with his therapist is one of the best in the book IMO.
There is a delicious slow burn between Daphne and Rickie. The tension builds as hot as the Summer sun and as always with Ms Bowen's writing, it makes for addictive reading. Rickie is a pansexual and heteroromantic , which is the first time I have read a Hero who has said this. He is all about Daphne and she is all about him. He encourages her to loosen up and she is his soft place to fall. Rickie is so loyal and lovely and it made this reader's heart happy to read their story. Plus , I love catching up with the Shipley clan. Sarina Bowen is an awesome author and I swear that when her pen hits the paper , pure magic happens.
I'd highly recommend this book and this series. Reads well as a standalone but you will probably get more from it by reading the others.
I mainly listened to the audio which had fabulous narration by Callie Dalton and Zachary Webber but partly read also.
HEA? More HFN
Cheating? No
Trigger Warning - Sexual assault (off page).
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 7, 2021
I loved this surprise addition to the True North series. Daphne needed her book. I loved that Rickie is the hero. As a supporting character, he seemed always happy & such a great guy.
There is so much more to Rickie. There's a back story. Don't worry, it all unfolds in due time.
*This is a standalone* Don't worry about that either ;) JUST READ IT !!
Daphne has done very well in college and going into grad school. Daphne has been holding a secret about one of her college workplace relationships.
Rickie and Daphne each have had personally traumatic events. Rickie has been seeing a therapist, Lenore. I just love Lenore. She's such an advocate for Rickie. It's refreshing that a character goes to his sessions without throwing a fit. He's truly looking for answers and healing.
Rickie and Daphne knew each other when they were much younger, but now have a whole new more grown friendship....... and more?? Yes their chemistry is so good.
I loved the supporting characters from the True North books.
I listened to the audio narrated by Zachary Webber (perfectly cast as Rickie) & Callie Dalton ( I love her as Daphne & she's done a lot of MZ audio books) .
The ending is not rushed and is very satisfying. I love these two. I want to reread this. It just really touched my heart. i want to read this again & again. I received an audio advance copy, and this is my honest review.
🍎 Amazon: https://geni.us/AmazonWaylaid
🍎 Apple: https://geni.us/AppleWaylaid
🍎 Kobo: https://geni.us/KoboWaylaid
🍎 Nook: https://geni.us/NookWaylaid
🍎 Google: https://geni.us/GoogleWaylaid
🎧 Audio: https://geni.us/AudibleWaylaid
There is so much more to Rickie. There's a back story. Don't worry, it all unfolds in due time.
*This is a standalone* Don't worry about that either ;) JUST READ IT !!
Daphne has done very well in college and going into grad school. Daphne has been holding a secret about one of her college workplace relationships.
Rickie and Daphne each have had personally traumatic events. Rickie has been seeing a therapist, Lenore. I just love Lenore. She's such an advocate for Rickie. It's refreshing that a character goes to his sessions without throwing a fit. He's truly looking for answers and healing.
Rickie and Daphne knew each other when they were much younger, but now have a whole new more grown friendship....... and more?? Yes their chemistry is so good.
I loved the supporting characters from the True North books.
I listened to the audio narrated by Zachary Webber (perfectly cast as Rickie) & Callie Dalton ( I love her as Daphne & she's done a lot of MZ audio books) .
The ending is not rushed and is very satisfying. I love these two. I want to reread this. It just really touched my heart. i want to read this again & again. I received an audio advance copy, and this is my honest review.
🍎 Amazon: https://geni.us/AmazonWaylaid
🍎 Apple: https://geni.us/AppleWaylaid
🍎 Kobo: https://geni.us/KoboWaylaid
🍎 Nook: https://geni.us/NookWaylaid
🍎 Google: https://geni.us/GoogleWaylaid
🎧 Audio: https://geni.us/AudibleWaylaid
Displaying 1 - 30 of 579 reviews