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We Did This Once Before: A Novel
Broke and lonely, Kim is about to make the worst decision ever.
Divorced and struggling, middle-aged Kim is hanging on by her fingernails. When her elderly mother invites her to move home to Florida, to the lush island of her childhood, Kim is tempted. She could spend time with Mom, start her dream business, and craft the perfect new life.
On the other hand, Mom has a Masters in manipulation, and there’s a reason Kim fled to California in her youth. But she’s too mature and experienced now to fall into the same family drama.
Telling herself it’ll all work out, Kim loads a rental trailer with her last few belongings and heads for Estero Island, hoping she isn't making a huge mistake.
Divorced and struggling, middle-aged Kim is hanging on by her fingernails. When her elderly mother invites her to move home to Florida, to the lush island of her childhood, Kim is tempted. She could spend time with Mom, start her dream business, and craft the perfect new life.
On the other hand, Mom has a Masters in manipulation, and there’s a reason Kim fled to California in her youth. But she’s too mature and experienced now to fall into the same family drama.
Telling herself it’ll all work out, Kim loads a rental trailer with her last few belongings and heads for Estero Island, hoping she isn't making a huge mistake.
324 pages, Kindle Edition
Published August 1, 2021
213 people are currently reading
144 people want to read
About the author
Lynne M. Spreen
22 books221 followersLynne M. Spreen writes later-in-life romance and women’s fiction that celebrates reinvention, resilience, and the rich complexity of a woman’s second act. Her debut novel, Dakota Blues, won a literary award and launched a new chapter in her life--she's up to twelve books and counting. After waiting half her life to pursue her dream of writing, she brings hard-earned insight to every story she tells.
Lynne lives in Southern California with her husband, where she balances the demands of the author life with line dancing, gardening, and the occasional round of zombie video games with her grandkids. When not writing, she’s most likely reading, researching, or quietly cheering for anyone brave enough to begin again.
To see more, please visit http://www.SilverRomanceBooks.net
Lynne lives in Southern California with her husband, where she balances the demands of the author life with line dancing, gardening, and the occasional round of zombie video games with her grandkids. When not writing, she’s most likely reading, researching, or quietly cheering for anyone brave enough to begin again.
To see more, please visit http://www.SilverRomanceBooks.net
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 35 reviews
September 9, 2021
The compexities of mother/daughter relationships
This story is a perfect example of “like mother, like daughter.” And how even as a grown woman, Kim continued to follow the behaviors she was raised with, how she dealt with the consequences of making emotionally-driven decisions, being the victim while others took advantage of her. But hang in there. Kim, though better late than never, learns to face her natural tendencies to risk more assertive decision-making in her mid-life.
This story is a perfect example of “like mother, like daughter.” And how even as a grown woman, Kim continued to follow the behaviors she was raised with, how she dealt with the consequences of making emotionally-driven decisions, being the victim while others took advantage of her. But hang in there. Kim, though better late than never, learns to face her natural tendencies to risk more assertive decision-making in her mid-life.
November 6, 2021
I loved this book! As an “older woman” who has often been described as a door mat and a “fixer”, it was so easy to relate to Kim. I felt so frustrated for her when she moved across country to help her mother only to find her aunt with dementia also living in the house and drug dealing relatives living in the backyard. Her life looked unsalvagable, but she persisted in developing her business, made friends and learned to stand up for herself.
November 13, 2024
Engaging story revolving around complex relationships between family, especially mother & daughter. Struggles with aging and dementia portrayed realistically, as well as domestic violence, and dealing with broken relationships, fibroids, and self discovery. Rebuilding of life and a promising future. Enjoyable reading.
November 10, 2021
It was the title that got me so curious about this book. Well written book, about the hard decisions we have to make, also the courage and determination that we need. Very gentle book with a tint of romance!
November 10, 2021
Interesting and engaging book! This a story is dedicated to everyone who is seeking to change his life and everyone who needs the determination to do so. Captivating and empowering read.
January 14, 2024
Midlife often leads to a rebirth of sorts, with a better understanding of yourself and your value.
Lynne M Spreen obviously enjoys writing about strong women approaching the second act of their lives ~ the victories and the pitfalls, the optimism and the doubts, and I believe she is the reigning queen of the genre! I have read her Blues series which I totally enjoyed, so I was eager to read this next book in her lineup.
At the ripe age of fifty, Kim finds herself at a crossroads ~ newly divorced, broke, and suffering job burn out. Following a phone call from her mother, she is debating the merits of moving to southwest Florida to help out her elderly mother and have a free place to live as she ponders her next move. She feels unappreciated at work and a bit lonely as well, so she pulls up stakes and drives from her longtime home in Southern California all the way across country to Estero Island near Ft. Myers, Florida. She discovers that her mother was not forthcoming about her situation when she offered her daughter a place to stay. Upon arrival at the ramshackle cottage on the inlet, Kim discovers that her confused Aunt Vergie is also living there, as is her cousin Liz with her sketchy boyfriend out back in a trailer.
Real tension exists between her mom, her Aunt Vergie, cousin Liz, and her live-in boyfriend Ian that Kim doesn't understand although she has her suspicions. As she tries to help her beleaguered elders escape from the tyranny of her opportunistic cousin, Kim recognizes some of her own faults and realizes how she's allowed her mom (and her ex) to so easily manipulate her.
Needing a source of funds as well as time away from her elders, Kim starts a virtual assistant/event planning business at which she excels. She also finds a friend (and love interest) in their neighbor Sam, who has been helping the ladies with small repairs around the house.
As Kim starts to piece together what exactly is going on within the family, she discovers that her mom has withheld much of the truth from her. Wanting to break her old habit of being manipulated, Kim starts to trust her own instincts in handling the problems within the household.
I like the way Ms. Spreen depicts Kim as a smart and capable woman who has unknowingly copied her mother's tendency to make people happy and keep the peace. Once she understands that, Kim can accept her part in the unraveling of her marriage and her dissatisfaction with her work, and grow stronger and more assertive in her relationships. Lynne's ability to convey her character's emotions and surroundings lends reality to her stories and enables the reader to experience the places and people more completely. I look forward to reading whatever is next from Lynne Spreen!
Lynne M Spreen obviously enjoys writing about strong women approaching the second act of their lives ~ the victories and the pitfalls, the optimism and the doubts, and I believe she is the reigning queen of the genre! I have read her Blues series which I totally enjoyed, so I was eager to read this next book in her lineup.
At the ripe age of fifty, Kim finds herself at a crossroads ~ newly divorced, broke, and suffering job burn out. Following a phone call from her mother, she is debating the merits of moving to southwest Florida to help out her elderly mother and have a free place to live as she ponders her next move. She feels unappreciated at work and a bit lonely as well, so she pulls up stakes and drives from her longtime home in Southern California all the way across country to Estero Island near Ft. Myers, Florida. She discovers that her mother was not forthcoming about her situation when she offered her daughter a place to stay. Upon arrival at the ramshackle cottage on the inlet, Kim discovers that her confused Aunt Vergie is also living there, as is her cousin Liz with her sketchy boyfriend out back in a trailer.
Real tension exists between her mom, her Aunt Vergie, cousin Liz, and her live-in boyfriend Ian that Kim doesn't understand although she has her suspicions. As she tries to help her beleaguered elders escape from the tyranny of her opportunistic cousin, Kim recognizes some of her own faults and realizes how she's allowed her mom (and her ex) to so easily manipulate her.
Needing a source of funds as well as time away from her elders, Kim starts a virtual assistant/event planning business at which she excels. She also finds a friend (and love interest) in their neighbor Sam, who has been helping the ladies with small repairs around the house.
As Kim starts to piece together what exactly is going on within the family, she discovers that her mom has withheld much of the truth from her. Wanting to break her old habit of being manipulated, Kim starts to trust her own instincts in handling the problems within the household.
I like the way Ms. Spreen depicts Kim as a smart and capable woman who has unknowingly copied her mother's tendency to make people happy and keep the peace. Once she understands that, Kim can accept her part in the unraveling of her marriage and her dissatisfaction with her work, and grow stronger and more assertive in her relationships. Lynne's ability to convey her character's emotions and surroundings lends reality to her stories and enables the reader to experience the places and people more completely. I look forward to reading whatever is next from Lynne Spreen!
September 18, 2021
Good story
Welcome to middle age and all the issues that come with it. Divorce, the physical change and caring for aging parents, but not all is lost. There is always the chance for new beginnings and turn of luck.
Welcome to middle age and all the issues that come with it. Divorce, the physical change and caring for aging parents, but not all is lost. There is always the chance for new beginnings and turn of luck.
May 13, 2025
I listened to the audio version of this book, and wow, the author really knows how to bring a story to life. This is the second book I’ve read (well, listened to) by her, and I’m quickly becoming a big fan of her writing style. It’s smart, relatable, and pulls you in without trying too hard.
As someone who's middle-aged myself, the theme totally hit home. Kim’s story: broke, lonely, and trying to rebuild her life, felt so real. Her move back to her childhood home in Florida, chasing a second chance while trying to dodge old family wounds, made for such an engaging read. You can’t help but root for her, even as you’re internally screaming, “Don’t do it!”
Now, I have to be honest, Kim’s mom drove me absolutely nuts. I know she was supposed to be a difficult character, but whew! Manipulative doesn’t even begin to cover it. That dynamic was frustrating, but also kind of the point, right? It added a layer of tension that kept me invested, even when I wanted to reach into the story and shake someone.
All in all, I loved the book. It was heartfelt, a little messy in the best way, and so well-written. If you're into stories about fresh starts, complicated family ties, and women rediscovering their strength later in life, this one’s for you. Just prepare yourself for that mother-daughter drama, because it’s real.
As someone who's middle-aged myself, the theme totally hit home. Kim’s story: broke, lonely, and trying to rebuild her life, felt so real. Her move back to her childhood home in Florida, chasing a second chance while trying to dodge old family wounds, made for such an engaging read. You can’t help but root for her, even as you’re internally screaming, “Don’t do it!”
Now, I have to be honest, Kim’s mom drove me absolutely nuts. I know she was supposed to be a difficult character, but whew! Manipulative doesn’t even begin to cover it. That dynamic was frustrating, but also kind of the point, right? It added a layer of tension that kept me invested, even when I wanted to reach into the story and shake someone.
All in all, I loved the book. It was heartfelt, a little messy in the best way, and so well-written. If you're into stories about fresh starts, complicated family ties, and women rediscovering their strength later in life, this one’s for you. Just prepare yourself for that mother-daughter drama, because it’s real.
September 3, 2025
I really enjoyed this audiobook. We Did This Once Before is one of those stories that feels grounded in real life, with characters who are easy to connect with and situations that feel familiar without being predictable. Lynne M. Spreen does a wonderful job of showing how relationships evolve and how personal growth can happen at any stage of life. The pacing was just right—steady and engaging, with enough emotional depth to keep me invested throughout.
Jenny Myers’ narration was a perfect match for the tone of the book. She brought warmth and clarity to the characters, making it easy to follow the story and stay immersed. I especially appreciated how natural the dialogue sounded, which added to the authenticity of the experience. Overall, this was a heartfelt and satisfying listen, and I’m glad I picked it up. I’ll definitely be keeping an eye out for more from both the author and narrator.
I was given this free review copy audiobook at my request and I have voluntarily left this review.
Jenny Myers’ narration was a perfect match for the tone of the book. She brought warmth and clarity to the characters, making it easy to follow the story and stay immersed. I especially appreciated how natural the dialogue sounded, which added to the authenticity of the experience. Overall, this was a heartfelt and satisfying listen, and I’m glad I picked it up. I’ll definitely be keeping an eye out for more from both the author and narrator.
I was given this free review copy audiobook at my request and I have voluntarily left this review.
August 4, 2025
Divorced and in her fifties the main character is still the good daughter. She leaves her life in California and moves back to a beach town in Florida where she grew up. Her elderly mother needs help and when her daughter gets there it is a lot more help than she imagined. Her mother is on oxygen, her aunt is with dementia is living with her and the house inside and out is in a state of disrepair. Oh, there is a trailer in the back yard where her antagonistic, uncaring cousin lives with an abusive boyfriend who could be selling drugs. All this plus trying to find a job weighs Kim(the main character) down constantly. What does she do and finally decide to get her life and her health back on track. This is an interesting story and plays right into the feelings of a middle aged daughter balancing her life and yet help her mother. Through in some romantic possibility and it is an interesting dilemma.
February 7, 2022
A must-read
Not being middle-aged myself, I can say, that We Did This Once Before did resonate with me.
Divorce, your body failing you, the under appreciation of the higher-ups - if I haven't felt it first-hand, I have family or friends that did ... and it's not pretty! The way Kim, the protagonist in Lynne Spreen’s book, handles all of that and more, the way she makes a life-changing decision, going to her childhood home to take care of her mother, that takes guts and being quite honest - I don't think I would be able to do that in her situation!
The character of Kim is so true-to-life, that it's difficult not to read the book as a biography. In all honesty, that can be a put-off at times, but overall it's just refreshing. So, not to give too much away, get a copy and see for yourself.
Bottomline - Lynne Spreen just got another fan, next are the Karen Grace series.
Not being middle-aged myself, I can say, that We Did This Once Before did resonate with me.
Divorce, your body failing you, the under appreciation of the higher-ups - if I haven't felt it first-hand, I have family or friends that did ... and it's not pretty! The way Kim, the protagonist in Lynne Spreen’s book, handles all of that and more, the way she makes a life-changing decision, going to her childhood home to take care of her mother, that takes guts and being quite honest - I don't think I would be able to do that in her situation!
The character of Kim is so true-to-life, that it's difficult not to read the book as a biography. In all honesty, that can be a put-off at times, but overall it's just refreshing. So, not to give too much away, get a copy and see for yourself.
Bottomline - Lynne Spreen just got another fan, next are the Karen Grace series.
March 23, 2025
Audiobook: I was moved by this story. I sympathized with Kim who moved back home and faced the reality of her aging mother. I respected Kim for trying to make a new life for herself even though she was middle-aged and dealing with the aftermath of her divorce. I didn't always appreciate Kim's attitude, but I could understand her frustration. I enjoyed the moments of humor which lightened the somberness of the tale. I enjoyed Jenny Myers' narration, and I thought her performance enhanced my enjoyment of the story. I was given a copy of the audiobook. I volunteered, without financial gain, to post this review which reflected my honest opinions regarding this audiobook.
January 2, 2023
Kim is divorced, living in California , . Her husband left her with a mountain of debt. She has a lot on her plate.
Her mother, is a master manipulator always making Kim feel guilty. she told her she needed her to help.
She moved back to her childhood. home, only to find th house in disrepair., her invalid aunt living there.
All her mom wanted her for is to help he a caretaker for them both.
Kim had to learn to be strong, not an enabler and give in.
She grew in this story to become her own person and take charge of her own life.
Jenny Myers narration is good,
Her mother, is a master manipulator always making Kim feel guilty. she told her she needed her to help.
She moved back to her childhood. home, only to find th house in disrepair., her invalid aunt living there.
All her mom wanted her for is to help he a caretaker for them both.
Kim had to learn to be strong, not an enabler and give in.
She grew in this story to become her own person and take charge of her own life.
Jenny Myers narration is good,
July 13, 2025
This book saved me during an internet outage!
Unable to work, watch anything, etc. I simply got lost in this and found that I liked it. Excellent vibes.
Packs:
Fresh starts.
Life after divorce.
Later-in-life (FMC is 50).
Aging gracefully & bodily changes.
Adventure.
Domestic abũ$e.
Elderly abũ$e.
New friendships and found family.
“Slow living” feel.
Small town.
Overall:
A slow-paced read that packed lots of drama and a bit of chaos. Very fun.
4 stars.
Audio:
Good! Smooth overall sound quality + good narration. 4 stars.
Unable to work, watch anything, etc. I simply got lost in this and found that I liked it. Excellent vibes.
Packs:
Fresh starts.
Life after divorce.
Later-in-life (FMC is 50).
Aging gracefully & bodily changes.
Adventure.
Domestic abũ$e.
Elderly abũ$e.
New friendships and found family.
“Slow living” feel.
Small town.
Overall:
A slow-paced read that packed lots of drama and a bit of chaos. Very fun.
4 stars.
Audio:
Good! Smooth overall sound quality + good narration. 4 stars.
February 2, 2023
Enlightening and Deep
This book was hard to put down. I related to the main character's co-dependence so much. The author wove so many relevant issues into the story: domestic abuse, child sexual abuse, and the crazy making, difficult, but precious relationship between mothers and daughters. I not only enjoyed the book immensely, I actually felt like I'd had counseling as I saw the way the main character saw her dysfunctional relationship patterns and sought the courage and strength to live a healthier, more fulfilling life.
This book was hard to put down. I related to the main character's co-dependence so much. The author wove so many relevant issues into the story: domestic abuse, child sexual abuse, and the crazy making, difficult, but precious relationship between mothers and daughters. I not only enjoyed the book immensely, I actually felt like I'd had counseling as I saw the way the main character saw her dysfunctional relationship patterns and sought the courage and strength to live a healthier, more fulfilling life.
Read
February 20, 2022Great read.
I am 78 and can relate to this story. I've been going thru a couple unexpected deaths lately and can see how life can change in a blink of an eye. I got very emotional reading this book.
I would recommend your books to my friend, Vicki. She would enjoy them. I look forward to many more adventures with Lynne M Spreen.
I am 78 and can relate to this story. I've been going thru a couple unexpected deaths lately and can see how life can change in a blink of an eye. I got very emotional reading this book.
I would recommend your books to my friend, Vicki. She would enjoy them. I look forward to many more adventures with Lynne M Spreen.
September 12, 2022
There is a lot going on here for a fairly short book, under 300 pages. Don't think the story line with Liz was necessary. Just added more clutter to the story.
One thing about this book really bothered me. Ms. Spreen kept referring to Norma and Virgie as "the elders". Once okay, maybe 2 times, but it kept coming up and every time I read the phrase I cringed.
One thing about this book really bothered me. Ms. Spreen kept referring to Norma and Virgie as "the elders". Once okay, maybe 2 times, but it kept coming up and every time I read the phrase I cringed.
February 14, 2024
How frustrating to have everyone take advantage of you and you a) let it happen and b) put off necessary surgery so you can help others. Kim was finally pushed to the point where she stood up for herself and stepped back to make her mother figure out her own life. The best thing was the dog being cared for and becoming a loving wonderful companion.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
March 19, 2024
A big fat bummer
I think I hated every single character in this book except for Sam and the dog. A book full of whiny self deprecating women isn’t my cup,of tea and that’s what this book was. Zero character development and what little there was, was horrible. Even the climax of the story was pitiful. Not worth the read.
I think I hated every single character in this book except for Sam and the dog. A book full of whiny self deprecating women isn’t my cup,of tea and that’s what this book was. Zero character development and what little there was, was horrible. Even the climax of the story was pitiful. Not worth the read.
December 6, 2024
Kim's Mother talks her into moving back home to Florida. What she finds when she gets there is total chaos. Her Mother is ill, her Mom's sister aunt Vergie is living there. Vergie has dementia. Vergie's daughter is living in a trailer in the backyard with her abusive drug dealing boyfriend. They have taken all Mother's money. What will Kim do? It was a good read.
December 15, 2024
An emotional read about a woman who following her divorce moves back to her mother's home, assuming she is no longer the maleable young woman she was, when she left. The reader is taken on a journey of the dynamics influencing the mother-daughter relationship with added family challenges of dementia, illegal activities, etc. Rather upsetting but realistic. 4 stars.
March 27, 2025
A wonderfully written and narrated (I used audiobook) story full of so many feels. This story could be written about so many "real lives" and it was done with tact and respect.
Make sure to check trigger warnings: talks about sexual abuse of child briefly as well as employee sexual harassment. Dementia character throughout.
Make sure to check trigger warnings: talks about sexual abuse of child briefly as well as employee sexual harassment. Dementia character throughout.
March 31, 2025
I thoroughly enjoyed this book. The narrator added to my enjoyment. She brings personality to the characters and her male voices are believable. 5 stars for her too.
I appreciated the way Kim fought to get her independence in all the turmoil of her family. She is a wonder woman.
I received a complimentary copy of this book from the author through Story Origin.
I appreciated the way Kim fought to get her independence in all the turmoil of her family. She is a wonder woman.
I received a complimentary copy of this book from the author through Story Origin.
February 1, 2022
4 Stars
4 stars for We Did This Once Before. When do we really grow up and learn to be ad advocate for ourselves and not a doormat for everyone else in our lives? Kim is learning after a divorce, being taken advantage of by her boss and now her mother needs her.
4 stars for We Did This Once Before. When do we really grow up and learn to be ad advocate for ourselves and not a doormat for everyone else in our lives? Kim is learning after a divorce, being taken advantage of by her boss and now her mother needs her.
November 18, 2024
Real life
Enjoyed this book as a woman close to 50. Reality of caregiving and fighting not to be a doormat. It's a bit jumpy and wordy in parts but still a good read. Look forward to the next book.
Enjoyed this book as a woman close to 50. Reality of caregiving and fighting not to be a doormat. It's a bit jumpy and wordy in parts but still a good read. Look forward to the next book.
November 26, 2024
Real people, real situations
I seldom review books, but this one is special. The situations in the book and the characters are real, not (im)perfectly made up. Just like real life, things go good, things go wrong. Kim's "can do" spirit is uplifting.
I seldom review books, but this one is special. The situations in the book and the characters are real, not (im)perfectly made up. Just like real life, things go good, things go wrong. Kim's "can do" spirit is uplifting.
December 31, 2024
Family trying to pull you under, yet survive.
Cute story of a divorcee who gets pulled into helping her mom & aunt while she tries to find her indepence. Fast read with an interesting story & characters.
Cute story of a divorcee who gets pulled into helping her mom & aunt while she tries to find her indepence. Fast read with an interesting story & characters.
March 5, 2025
So enjoyable!
Great character development and believable dialogue. A glimpse into how
people embrace life or avoid reality with some being able to finally take charge of their destiny
and keep hope alive
Great character development and believable dialogue. A glimpse into how
people embrace life or avoid reality with some being able to finally take charge of their destiny
and keep hope alive
July 15, 2025
True to life
This main character was so relatable and the story true to life as I'm sure many can relate to. Caregivers often lose themselves in the pursuit of caring for others. It was refreshing to see this character reclaim her own life while not abandoning her family!
This main character was so relatable and the story true to life as I'm sure many can relate to. Caregivers often lose themselves in the pursuit of caring for others. It was refreshing to see this character reclaim her own life while not abandoning her family!
November 15, 2021
Book review
This was not at all what I expected. I had high hopes from reading the synopsis. Nothing was enjoyable. It was a waste of time and very depressing.
This was not at all what I expected. I had high hopes from reading the synopsis. Nothing was enjoyable. It was a waste of time and very depressing.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 35 reviews