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Forever Yours
Lovable rogue Cal was my best friend, soul mate, housemate and lover... Until he shattered my dreams.
Years after Cal left me, my husband picked up the pieces. He was the first man to show interest and make me feel worthy of love again. Two children later and life has taken its toll; a monotonous routine and stale marriage. But when a new career opportunity presents itself—an exciting job at a leading marketing company—nothing can dull my sparkle.
Until he walks into the office; the one who loved and left. Irresistible, carefree Callum, who stirs something deep within me. Feelings that I thought I had laid to rest. Being plus size in every sense of the word, I struggle with temptation as I try to lose weight. I don’t need another craving to contend with.
I am devoted to my family but my desire for this impossible man has been reawakened. I’m not willing to risk my heart again for a man that left it in pieces. But when true love and loyalty collide, Cal might be one temptation too far.
Please note: Mature themes. Infidelity. UK author.
Years after Cal left me, my husband picked up the pieces. He was the first man to show interest and make me feel worthy of love again. Two children later and life has taken its toll; a monotonous routine and stale marriage. But when a new career opportunity presents itself—an exciting job at a leading marketing company—nothing can dull my sparkle.
Until he walks into the office; the one who loved and left. Irresistible, carefree Callum, who stirs something deep within me. Feelings that I thought I had laid to rest. Being plus size in every sense of the word, I struggle with temptation as I try to lose weight. I don’t need another craving to contend with.
I am devoted to my family but my desire for this impossible man has been reawakened. I’m not willing to risk my heart again for a man that left it in pieces. But when true love and loyalty collide, Cal might be one temptation too far.
Please note: Mature themes. Infidelity. UK author.
434 pages, Kindle Edition
Published October 28, 2021
365 people are currently reading
1468 people want to read
About the author
Annie Charme
31 books414 followersI’m a graphic artist by day and author by night, writing real, raw, racy romance. My book boyfriends are inked heroes who like fat, fun, and feisty women (sounds familiar).
My goal is to spread body positivity through my fat and fabulous curvy heroines with a good serving of British humour on the side (not forgetting an extra helping of alpha goodness).
On the very rare occasion I’m not working in my day job...or night job as a writer, I'll be living my best life in the heart of England with my other half, two wildlings (otherwise known as Veruca Salt and Mike Teavee), and a randy cavalier pup.
My serious book fetish travels with me in our tin cruiser as we roam the English countryside. You’ll usually find me in a field somewhere or curled up on the sofa with a coffee (wine), blanket and dog to keep me cozy, and a good steamy book to make me w—warm.
Get in touch! I love hearing from readers.
My goal is to spread body positivity through my fat and fabulous curvy heroines with a good serving of British humour on the side (not forgetting an extra helping of alpha goodness).
On the very rare occasion I’m not working in my day job...or night job as a writer, I'll be living my best life in the heart of England with my other half, two wildlings (otherwise known as Veruca Salt and Mike Teavee), and a randy cavalier pup.
My serious book fetish travels with me in our tin cruiser as we roam the English countryside. You’ll usually find me in a field somewhere or curled up on the sofa with a coffee (wine), blanket and dog to keep me cozy, and a good steamy book to make me w—warm.
Get in touch! I love hearing from readers.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 79 reviews
June 4, 2022
this book was so bad but I couldn't stop reading it
October 8, 2021
What happens when your first love – the one who was everything to you, the one you planned your future around, the one who walked away and shattered your heart - walks back into your life 20 years later?
Steph is faced with this dilemma on the first day of her new job, when she finds her old flame Cal sitting at the desk across from hers. Things are different for Steph now. She's no longer the broken-hearted college girl she was when Cal left her. She's now happily married, the mother of two young children, and enjoying her career. But is that spark between Cal and Steph really gone, truly extinguished by all of the tears Steph shed after Cal left? Or is the flame still there, just lying dormant until they meet each other again?
I'm going to start with a couple of warnings. First, this book is not a standalone. It ends with "To be continued," so go in with that knowledge. Secondly, in case you haven't guessed already, this story involves infidelity. If that's a trigger for you, then you probably should steer clear, because this is hard-core cheating, not just a single tryst, with a ton of sexy times.
With that out of the way, I will let you in on a little secret: I absolutely HATED these characters for the first part of the book. Cal was cocky and pushy and overly-interested in getting Steph to break her marriage vows. Steph herself was a hot mess, completely wishy-washy and constantly changing her mind about what she wanted. I seriously wanted to slap her on numerous occasions.
BUT.
The back half of this book was so damn good, as we got to dig deeper into our main characters and uncover all of the real, raw, jagged emotions underneath the surface-level attraction, and as they began to rebuild the relationship that they thought was lost forever. And although I know this isn't the end of Steph and Cal's story, I really did like the way this book ended. It's rare to find a part one that finishes so cleanly and elegantly.
Also, props to the author for giving us a proper middle-aged fat lady as our lead. I am SO. DAMN. TIRED. of the so-called "plus-sized" romance novel heroine really just being a gorgeous 20-year old who wears a size 14.
Additional CW: pregnancy loss, fat shaming
Thank you to the author for providing a copy of this book for review.
Steph is faced with this dilemma on the first day of her new job, when she finds her old flame Cal sitting at the desk across from hers. Things are different for Steph now. She's no longer the broken-hearted college girl she was when Cal left her. She's now happily married, the mother of two young children, and enjoying her career. But is that spark between Cal and Steph really gone, truly extinguished by all of the tears Steph shed after Cal left? Or is the flame still there, just lying dormant until they meet each other again?
I'm going to start with a couple of warnings. First, this book is not a standalone. It ends with "To be continued," so go in with that knowledge. Secondly, in case you haven't guessed already, this story involves infidelity. If that's a trigger for you, then you probably should steer clear, because this is hard-core cheating, not just a single tryst, with a ton of sexy times.
With that out of the way, I will let you in on a little secret: I absolutely HATED these characters for the first part of the book. Cal was cocky and pushy and overly-interested in getting Steph to break her marriage vows. Steph herself was a hot mess, completely wishy-washy and constantly changing her mind about what she wanted. I seriously wanted to slap her on numerous occasions.
BUT.
The back half of this book was so damn good, as we got to dig deeper into our main characters and uncover all of the real, raw, jagged emotions underneath the surface-level attraction, and as they began to rebuild the relationship that they thought was lost forever. And although I know this isn't the end of Steph and Cal's story, I really did like the way this book ended. It's rare to find a part one that finishes so cleanly and elegantly.
Also, props to the author for giving us a proper middle-aged fat lady as our lead. I am SO. DAMN. TIRED. of the so-called "plus-sized" romance novel heroine really just being a gorgeous 20-year old who wears a size 14.
Additional CW: pregnancy loss, fat shaming
Thank you to the author for providing a copy of this book for review.
April 26, 2022
What a great read that was! Steph is not your *typical* heroine, she is a mum, still married and plus sized. But she also has wonderful sense of humour, her internal monologues had me in stitches, her perception of surroundings and situations she finds herself in is brilliant and often makes you stop. We all have dilemmas in our life, how do we deal with certain situations, would I put myself in certain situations? It’s definitely great read. And of course it has plenty of steam and hot hero. It’s a beautiful love story (yes and hot one as well), that also makes you stop and think. I absolutely loved it, I think Annie Charme has great ability to portrait quite interesting characters who are aware of their imperfections and let’s us follow them in quite intimate way. Can’t wait for book two now.
October 6, 2023
Edit:
Changed my mind. This is definitely a 1 star book for me
Let's preface this by saying that this started off ok but I discovered that affair stories are not for me. I am ok with cheating but long affairs apparently are a no-no so I had a hard time enjoying this book.
I don't know if it's a general thing with affair stories or it was this book but it made the FMC read as very spoiled and borderline stupid: she spends the book moaning about how awful she is and how guilty she feels but keeps on seeking him out. It's not even a crime of opportunity, she keeps going to his house, involves the kids... She doesn't even angst about it, it's more like "I can't eat anything because of how guilty looking at my husband makes me feel. I must go see my side piece". And half the scenes are her going "I can't be with you, this won't happen again" only to beg him to kiss/f*ck her in the literal next breath. She gave me whiplash.
I am realizing that I also just didn't like her at all haha. She is sort of the villain you love to hate but without the love. Think Walter White vibes.
I just kept cringing and rolling my eyes and expecting them to get caught because they honestly deserve it. It's just a really toxic relationship but not in a good way, if that makes sense haha. Both of them have an "I won't have you but you can't be with anyone else" mentality and they are just...
I don't know. I am giving it 2 stars because 1 star feels like too low but it was a weird feeling - I didn't want to DNF but I also was not particularly enjoying it. Idk if it was the affair that just spoiled it for me but, as I said, I had a hard time with it.
Changed my mind. This is definitely a 1 star book for me
Let's preface this by saying that this started off ok but I discovered that affair stories are not for me. I am ok with cheating but long affairs apparently are a no-no so I had a hard time enjoying this book.
I don't know if it's a general thing with affair stories or it was this book but it made the FMC read as very spoiled and borderline stupid: she spends the book moaning about how awful she is and how guilty she feels but keeps on seeking him out. It's not even a crime of opportunity, she keeps going to his house, involves the kids... She doesn't even angst about it, it's more like "I can't eat anything because of how guilty looking at my husband makes me feel. I must go see my side piece". And half the scenes are her going "I can't be with you, this won't happen again" only to beg him to kiss/f*ck her in the literal next breath. She gave me whiplash.
I am realizing that I also just didn't like her at all haha. She is sort of the villain you love to hate but without the love. Think Walter White vibes.
I just kept cringing and rolling my eyes and expecting them to get caught because they honestly deserve it. It's just a really toxic relationship but not in a good way, if that makes sense haha. Both of them have an "I won't have you but you can't be with anyone else" mentality and they are just...
I don't know. I am giving it 2 stars because 1 star feels like too low but it was a weird feeling - I didn't want to DNF but I also was not particularly enjoying it. Idk if it was the affair that just spoiled it for me but, as I said, I had a hard time with it.
April 21, 2022
I was given a arc for my honest opinion. This is my first time reading this UK Author.
Not my cup of tea but a good book.
The storyline is well done and no editing problems that I found.
I don’t mind the cheating but I wish Steph had done it differently. Her husband could be a ass but he wasn’t that bad.
The problem I had was that the whole story was in one viewpoint. I would have liked it better with Cal’s viewpoint also, I’d like to know what his feelings were and why he was acting the way he did.
I have read many books written by UK Authors so a lot of the slang or words they use that are different then American I usually understand but there where many in this book that confused me and I didn’t understand what they meant.
All in all a good 4 star read
Not my cup of tea but a good book.
The storyline is well done and no editing problems that I found.
I don’t mind the cheating but I wish Steph had done it differently. Her husband could be a ass but he wasn’t that bad.
The problem I had was that the whole story was in one viewpoint. I would have liked it better with Cal’s viewpoint also, I’d like to know what his feelings were and why he was acting the way he did.
I have read many books written by UK Authors so a lot of the slang or words they use that are different then American I usually understand but there where many in this book that confused me and I didn’t understand what they meant.
All in all a good 4 star read
July 5, 2024
I love the story hate the fat shaming. I also can't figure out what size steph is meant to be as she's only described as curvy and then they use her being fat as an insult constantly. I feel sorry for Justin steph married him and had her kids with him and his main role in this is to constantly monitor what she eats and we don't see any other part of their life really
April 25, 2022
Love this!
I fell in love with Cal and Steph in their prequel story and HAD to continue reading about their journey! I know this story might not be for everyone....but it gripped me! Such a rollercoaster ride! I can't wait for book 3. I've already pre-ordered it.
I fell in love with Cal and Steph in their prequel story and HAD to continue reading about their journey! I know this story might not be for everyone....but it gripped me! Such a rollercoaster ride! I can't wait for book 3. I've already pre-ordered it.
April 22, 2022
highs and lows
I never thought a book like this would draw me in, but it has. Steph resonates as a character on so many levels, and the intensity of her relationships hits hard. It’s hard to write a review without spoilers, so give it a try and see for yourself
I never thought a book like this would draw me in, but it has. Steph resonates as a character on so many levels, and the intensity of her relationships hits hard. It’s hard to write a review without spoilers, so give it a try and see for yourself
April 20, 2022
Loved this forbidden romance. It had me on the edge of my seat type, asking myself what was going to happen next. I love the thrill their forbiddeness offered to the story. And both characters were easy to relate to!
November 25, 2021
5 stars....can't I give more?!?!
Where do I start? Well for a start off, this isn't my usual genre, I read Holocaust & murder, I'd never read such a book before, so to say I was nervous about reading it is an understatement....well!!!! Boy, I needn't have been. This was such a well written book, I can't tell it's the author's 1st at all....I can't wait for the next book, when is it out....come on?!?!
It sent me on a rollercoaster of emotions from anger to sympathy, even happy tears. I HATE that husband but that made me want to keep reading to see if she says anything to him, & adored Cal from the start, I just imagine a tattooed john snow!!! Theres a clever little plot twist too. But my favourite thing by far is the focus on the fact she is a bigger woman, we need more books like this, how Cal looks at her is just.....incredible. Positive focus on a larger lady is deffinitely what we need more of in the world!! Things she goes through are just so relatable to me, I have laughed at several moments to do with this in the book, like the changing room scene....soo funny!!
This book makes me want to read more like it, only thing is, I'd worry they wouldn't live up to this one.
HIGHLY RECCOMENDED!!!!
Thanks for writing and good luck with your future books....not that you need it!!!
Where do I start? Well for a start off, this isn't my usual genre, I read Holocaust & murder, I'd never read such a book before, so to say I was nervous about reading it is an understatement....well!!!! Boy, I needn't have been. This was such a well written book, I can't tell it's the author's 1st at all....I can't wait for the next book, when is it out....come on?!?!
It sent me on a rollercoaster of emotions from anger to sympathy, even happy tears. I HATE that husband but that made me want to keep reading to see if she says anything to him, & adored Cal from the start, I just imagine a tattooed john snow!!! Theres a clever little plot twist too. But my favourite thing by far is the focus on the fact she is a bigger woman, we need more books like this, how Cal looks at her is just.....incredible. Positive focus on a larger lady is deffinitely what we need more of in the world!! Things she goes through are just so relatable to me, I have laughed at several moments to do with this in the book, like the changing room scene....soo funny!!
This book makes me want to read more like it, only thing is, I'd worry they wouldn't live up to this one.
HIGHLY RECCOMENDED!!!!
Thanks for writing and good luck with your future books....not that you need it!!!
October 19, 2021
I received an ARC of Forever Yours in exchange for an honest review.
I’m torn on this one. Forever Yours was well written but Steph and Justin are two of the most unlikable characters I’ve read in a while. I almost stopped reading with each chapter in the first half of the book, and I was thankful that things picked up in the second half. I kept hoping Steph would leave Justin, or Justin would find out what Steph was doing and leave her.
The chemistry between Steph and Cal was great, and Cal was the reason I kept reading.
We’re left with “To Be Continued…” at the end. While I’m curious as to if Steph and Cal will eventually end up together, I don’t know if I will be able to bring myself to continue reading their story.
I’m torn on this one. Forever Yours was well written but Steph and Justin are two of the most unlikable characters I’ve read in a while. I almost stopped reading with each chapter in the first half of the book, and I was thankful that things picked up in the second half. I kept hoping Steph would leave Justin, or Justin would find out what Steph was doing and leave her.
The chemistry between Steph and Cal was great, and Cal was the reason I kept reading.
We’re left with “To Be Continued…” at the end. While I’m curious as to if Steph and Cal will eventually end up together, I don’t know if I will be able to bring myself to continue reading their story.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
November 6, 2021
Forever Yours (The Temptation Series, #1) by Annie Charmes
Debut Author Annie Charmes brings us a searing book about first loves reconnecting. I was sucked into this story and need to know more. I can't wait till the next book comes out.
We meet Steph and Cal, who were soulmates from the very beginning but unfortunately they didn't stick together. Fast forward 20 years and they are thrown back together, is it fate? Well I don't like to give spoilers so you will need to read it to find out.
Debut Author Annie Charmes brings us a searing book about first loves reconnecting. I was sucked into this story and need to know more. I can't wait till the next book comes out.
We meet Steph and Cal, who were soulmates from the very beginning but unfortunately they didn't stick together. Fast forward 20 years and they are thrown back together, is it fate? Well I don't like to give spoilers so you will need to read it to find out.
January 25, 2023
Do not read this book if fatphobia and constant mentions of dieting and food restriction bother you (they really bother me).
Aside from that, I guess I didn’t realize this WHOLE (overly long) book would be a cheating plot, where really nothing happens? I get there’s a second book but Jesus I dragged myself through the mud for this one. I’m not wasting my time again.
I couldn’t stand any of the characters or their motivations or actions. Pass on this book. It’s awful and not even in a fun way.
Aside from that, I guess I didn’t realize this WHOLE (overly long) book would be a cheating plot, where really nothing happens? I get there’s a second book but Jesus I dragged myself through the mud for this one. I’m not wasting my time again.
I couldn’t stand any of the characters or their motivations or actions. Pass on this book. It’s awful and not even in a fun way.
October 20, 2021
Omg I absolutely loved this book. I was sucked in straight away, and could not stop reading. The steamy stuff is amazing and the characters do exactly what they're supposed to, be lovable and bad in equal measures. Great to read a curvy woman, loved the sexy guy too, what a read. Five stars all the way.
September 28, 2022
Trigger warning: I use the word ‘f*t’ in this review and reference ED. This book also focuses on infidelity.
Steph’s story starts with heartbreak. Callum, her college sweetheart, and former best friend, broke her heart and shattered her self-worth along with it. Years later, Steph finds herself grid-locked in a loveless marriage with the first person to show her attention. A second chance emerges in the form of a new career. One that sends her careening into Callum’s office (and arms). Inevitably, their affair begins, and Steph is left with a horrible secret and even more difficult decisions.
This story has a few trigger warnings listed: Mature Themes and Infidelity. However, I would also like to suggest a trigger warning for those with ED and Binge-Eating Disorders.
I will start by saying that the story itself is quite good. It’s about a woman who accepted the love she was given when she should have been reaching for the love she deserves. Though, that being said, there is added tension/conflicting feelings with our male lead, as he hasn’t always been the most stellar partner. After all, Steph is still nursing a broken heart and a barely glued-together self-esteem after their break-up in college.
Steph and Callum have great banter and chemistry that leaps off the pages. I was rooting for them, even though, morally, I felt as though I shouldn’t have.
I felt some aspects of the story worked against it, however. For one, I feel like there could have been more thought given on Steph’s side to her affair. Most of the love scenes were completely absent of any mention of her family. I just wish there had been a hand-wave explanation along the lines of: “she didn’t think about anything but the ‘here and now’ with Callum,” or “the fact that they were doing something wrong made it feel absolutely filthy.” Her marriage felt like a sweater that was taken and put back on again for convenience, and it was intrusive enough that it was distracting.
A big point of frustration for me (the added trigger warning mentioned at the beginning of my review) was the obsession with Steph’s weight. I feel like too much attention was paid to her needing to eat and burying her feelings and her body size overall. As someone who has a history of eating disorders, it was incredibly hard to get through. I am here for a plus-sized queen. I love seeing representation for thicc ladies in the romance genre. However, this felt like it was a step too far, like a huge cornerstone of Steph’s personality was that she was overweight. It felt like the takeaway we the readers are supposed to have was, “Steph is fat, and [insert personality trait]” when I wished it was more, “Steph is a kick-ass professional, who has a great sense of humor, a rapier wit, and who also happens to have a little fluff in the middle.” It also didn’t help that a lot of peripheral characters/situations underlined her weight and equated her value as a human being to her waist size.
I will say that I liked that Cal was supportive of Steph. Her weight didn’t matter to him, which was a refreshing change of pace since it seemed to be a point of obsession for almost everyone else in the story.
Overall, I’m curious to know what happens next in Forever Mine, the second installment of The Temptation Series, which will be written in Callum’s perspective.
Steph’s story starts with heartbreak. Callum, her college sweetheart, and former best friend, broke her heart and shattered her self-worth along with it. Years later, Steph finds herself grid-locked in a loveless marriage with the first person to show her attention. A second chance emerges in the form of a new career. One that sends her careening into Callum’s office (and arms). Inevitably, their affair begins, and Steph is left with a horrible secret and even more difficult decisions.
This story has a few trigger warnings listed: Mature Themes and Infidelity. However, I would also like to suggest a trigger warning for those with ED and Binge-Eating Disorders.
I will start by saying that the story itself is quite good. It’s about a woman who accepted the love she was given when she should have been reaching for the love she deserves. Though, that being said, there is added tension/conflicting feelings with our male lead, as he hasn’t always been the most stellar partner. After all, Steph is still nursing a broken heart and a barely glued-together self-esteem after their break-up in college.
Steph and Callum have great banter and chemistry that leaps off the pages. I was rooting for them, even though, morally, I felt as though I shouldn’t have.
I felt some aspects of the story worked against it, however. For one, I feel like there could have been more thought given on Steph’s side to her affair. Most of the love scenes were completely absent of any mention of her family. I just wish there had been a hand-wave explanation along the lines of: “she didn’t think about anything but the ‘here and now’ with Callum,” or “the fact that they were doing something wrong made it feel absolutely filthy.” Her marriage felt like a sweater that was taken and put back on again for convenience, and it was intrusive enough that it was distracting.
A big point of frustration for me (the added trigger warning mentioned at the beginning of my review) was the obsession with Steph’s weight. I feel like too much attention was paid to her needing to eat and burying her feelings and her body size overall. As someone who has a history of eating disorders, it was incredibly hard to get through. I am here for a plus-sized queen. I love seeing representation for thicc ladies in the romance genre. However, this felt like it was a step too far, like a huge cornerstone of Steph’s personality was that she was overweight. It felt like the takeaway we the readers are supposed to have was, “Steph is fat, and [insert personality trait]” when I wished it was more, “Steph is a kick-ass professional, who has a great sense of humor, a rapier wit, and who also happens to have a little fluff in the middle.” It also didn’t help that a lot of peripheral characters/situations underlined her weight and equated her value as a human being to her waist size.
I will say that I liked that Cal was supportive of Steph. Her weight didn’t matter to him, which was a refreshing change of pace since it seemed to be a point of obsession for almost everyone else in the story.
Overall, I’m curious to know what happens next in Forever Mine, the second installment of The Temptation Series, which will be written in Callum’s perspective.
May 19, 2022
Forever Yours, the first book in the Temptation series by Annie Charms, is a forbidden second chance romance that will take you on an emotional journey of forbidden love, secret affairs and of course cheating—so please be aware of that before going in! While typically I don’t read books that generally revolve around cheating, when I saw this one I thought I’d give it a try and I was not disappointed!
This is a story about losing love and forging ahead with someone new and becoming stagnant within that life…only to have your first love come back in to your life and all the craziness that ensues next. The secret rush, the hidden secrets, the excitement of re-found love and rekindling forgotten passions, the deceit and betrayal, the hurt and acceptance—Annie captures it all beautifully!
These characters, Cal, Steph and even Justin whom I loved to hate, will make you feel all the angst, stress, anger and pain right along with them—but also all the excitement and rush too. At times I hated these characters, and other times I felt for them—which I found intriguing considering my personal stance on infidelity and is only a testament to Annie’s writing!
This is a story about real life love and emotions and dealing and living with the consequences of those decisions. I loved that Steph was a plus size woman and how Cal pulled her out of herself and allowed her to see how beautiful she really was. And the spice and steam? Perfection! And that ending?!?! I can’t wait to see what happens next in Forever Mine!
This is a story about losing love and forging ahead with someone new and becoming stagnant within that life…only to have your first love come back in to your life and all the craziness that ensues next. The secret rush, the hidden secrets, the excitement of re-found love and rekindling forgotten passions, the deceit and betrayal, the hurt and acceptance—Annie captures it all beautifully!
These characters, Cal, Steph and even Justin whom I loved to hate, will make you feel all the angst, stress, anger and pain right along with them—but also all the excitement and rush too. At times I hated these characters, and other times I felt for them—which I found intriguing considering my personal stance on infidelity and is only a testament to Annie’s writing!
This is a story about real life love and emotions and dealing and living with the consequences of those decisions. I loved that Steph was a plus size woman and how Cal pulled her out of herself and allowed her to see how beautiful she really was. And the spice and steam? Perfection! And that ending?!?! I can’t wait to see what happens next in Forever Mine!
September 19, 2023
I read the prequel first and after that this was really disappointing. The prequel had really good development of their relationship with no indication that things would fail. I thought this book would go into what happened a little bit more, but nope. It jumps right in 20 years later.
Added on to that, if you didn't read the prequel, I think they amount of obsession the two MCs felt for each other immediately would make no sense. It was kind of jarring to me and I read the prequel immediately before! I really didn't believe that these two would be so in love with each other immediately after being apart for 20 years. It genuinely annoyed me because it made both of them whiney. At least if there was a better reason for them having broken up maybe it could have been justified, but no. He just wasn't ready to be in a relationship and so he dumped her.
Also, spoiler alert******
Overall, this book was really disappointing because I enjoyed the prequel so much. I wish it was more popular so someone can write a better fan fic version of this book.
Added on to that, if you didn't read the prequel, I think they amount of obsession the two MCs felt for each other immediately would make no sense. It was kind of jarring to me and I read the prequel immediately before! I really didn't believe that these two would be so in love with each other immediately after being apart for 20 years. It genuinely annoyed me because it made both of them whiney. At least if there was a better reason for them having broken up maybe it could have been justified, but no. He just wasn't ready to be in a relationship and so he dumped her.
Also, spoiler alert******
Overall, this book was really disappointing because I enjoyed the prequel so much. I wish it was more popular so someone can write a better fan fic version of this book.
May 25, 2022
OMG!!!! I didn’t just fall in love with Cal, but I fell from all of them!!!! 💖💖💖💖
If you don’t like to read books with infidelity, don’t one click this. If you decide to read it, please don’t penalize the author for this trope because you went into this book knowing that there was cheating involved.
This is a slow burn second chance romance book. It features people in their mid life and read like real people. Steph is a plus size character who truly is plus sized - not just a curvy size 12 person. Her struggles with her weight and the impact of those around her who judge her for her weight are real, including her husband. Cal and Steph were best friends turned lovers and then Cal broke Steph’s heart. They are thrown together about 20 years later and this is the story about how their unresolved feelings come to the surface.
This book will make you swoon, it will make you angry, you will need to change your panties and yes, you will even ugly cry. The story takes its time so that the reader truly gets to know these characters and their lives. It’s a story that will totally engulf you and leave you wanting to move to the next book immediately with its ending. This has become one of my favourite books (and I anticipate series) from this trope and genre.
If you don’t like to read books with infidelity, don’t one click this. If you decide to read it, please don’t penalize the author for this trope because you went into this book knowing that there was cheating involved.
This is a slow burn second chance romance book. It features people in their mid life and read like real people. Steph is a plus size character who truly is plus sized - not just a curvy size 12 person. Her struggles with her weight and the impact of those around her who judge her for her weight are real, including her husband. Cal and Steph were best friends turned lovers and then Cal broke Steph’s heart. They are thrown together about 20 years later and this is the story about how their unresolved feelings come to the surface.
This book will make you swoon, it will make you angry, you will need to change your panties and yes, you will even ugly cry. The story takes its time so that the reader truly gets to know these characters and their lives. It’s a story that will totally engulf you and leave you wanting to move to the next book immediately with its ending. This has become one of my favourite books (and I anticipate series) from this trope and genre.
April 7, 2023
1/5 this was actually so incredibly bad im so upset, I wasn't expecting it to be this horrible
okay the prequel wasn't that bad, wasn't good but wasn't bad. I honestly thought it would get better but it really didn't
first I don't like this huge ass time jump, if it was 5-10 years okay but TWENTY YEARS???? one day they're 17 and the next they are almost 40, married, and with kids.
we didn't even get to see their relationship, I thought we would at least get some flashback scenes even though I hate flashback scenes. I feel like this was written so horribly
I also really hate the cheating trope no matter how bad her husband is, this women was having an emotional relationship with cal when they first started working together and then it turned sexual. I don't get how they don't see anything wrong with that and then the fact that they had their children meet one another is absolutely crazy to me
I don't feel bad for her, she deserves everything she gets. if you're not happy THEN LEAVE she's literally in a MARRIAGE with kids. she's selfish and not thinking about anyone else but herself, I have a feeling her husband is cheating on her but still
I won't be reading the next book, the fact that I even finished this horrible book is crazy
okay the prequel wasn't that bad, wasn't good but wasn't bad. I honestly thought it would get better but it really didn't
first I don't like this huge ass time jump, if it was 5-10 years okay but TWENTY YEARS???? one day they're 17 and the next they are almost 40, married, and with kids.
we didn't even get to see their relationship, I thought we would at least get some flashback scenes even though I hate flashback scenes. I feel like this was written so horribly
I also really hate the cheating trope no matter how bad her husband is, this women was having an emotional relationship with cal when they first started working together and then it turned sexual. I don't get how they don't see anything wrong with that and then the fact that they had their children meet one another is absolutely crazy to me
I don't feel bad for her, she deserves everything she gets. if you're not happy THEN LEAVE she's literally in a MARRIAGE with kids. she's selfish and not thinking about anyone else but herself, I have a feeling her husband is cheating on her but still
I won't be reading the next book, the fact that I even finished this horrible book is crazy
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
April 15, 2024
If I could I would give it zero. Don’t get me wrong I do know what I can expect from these types of books that mostly provide lots of fun and disconnection from the boring world of taking care of someone and working.
But this book? It takes the cake. It’s badly written, the plot is bad and the main heroin is the worst type of person that exists. Maybe I just have high moral standards but the woman is obnoxious idiot that cheats and blames the partner for it. There is no romance in this book because romance should be pure. This is pure trash. The heroine not only gaslights her husband but also us readers. So what you nag to your husband you’re fat and he helps by keeping you in check and he’s the villain because he makes you a salad instead of hamburger? I am so salty because I read it. SALTY.
And yes while I know that the effort was made to write and publish it. And it’s bad to give bad review to someone who put effort and work in it but by heavens was the publishing house blind when they read it? Or they just needed something to publish and make quick money?
Long story short: bad book. Not recommending it unless you like to torture yourself.
But this book? It takes the cake. It’s badly written, the plot is bad and the main heroin is the worst type of person that exists. Maybe I just have high moral standards but the woman is obnoxious idiot that cheats and blames the partner for it. There is no romance in this book because romance should be pure. This is pure trash. The heroine not only gaslights her husband but also us readers. So what you nag to your husband you’re fat and he helps by keeping you in check and he’s the villain because he makes you a salad instead of hamburger? I am so salty because I read it. SALTY.
And yes while I know that the effort was made to write and publish it. And it’s bad to give bad review to someone who put effort and work in it but by heavens was the publishing house blind when they read it? Or they just needed something to publish and make quick money?
Long story short: bad book. Not recommending it unless you like to torture yourself.
May 15, 2022
I don’t typically read books that involve cheating, but I found this book through the author promoting it on another platform and wanted to give it a try. I’m glad I did. Cal and Steph’s story is one of heartbreak and deep love. Timing is really not on their side when it comes to being together. Despite multiple obstacles, the love remains. I felt this was very well written and was able to capture the emotional depth that brings someone to a decision like this and the consequences of such a decision. The characters were real and written in an authentic voice that lended a raw feel for the situations they found themselves in. There is no fairytale ending when cheating takes place…there is pain and hurt for all parties. I’m looking forward to reading the next book to see how things will be resolved.
Note to potential readers: Steph is a bigger woman and there are comments made about this. Be mindful and take care if this a trigger for you.
Note to potential readers: Steph is a bigger woman and there are comments made about this. Be mindful and take care if this a trigger for you.
October 2, 2024
1/1.5 ⭐️
Meh i enjoyed the first one but this wasn’t it- I kept seeing this on my fyp and I knew the tropes wasn’t my thing but I liked the first so i thought I could make through it- and this book told me that was right and I don’t like single parents/ family that haven’t been together from the beginning - in all honesty I wasn’t that arse with the tropes but man I hate kids in books 😂 the writing was my main issue with the book as both mmcs were whiny and childish and that basically the whole book + sex- I skipped half the books because I needed to know what happened because for some reason I was glued either tho I felt like I was reading a rubbish Christmas romance and ngl the ending wasn’t anything special- I also didn’t like that it wasn’t in both pov but only the fmcs again
*I tried to read the last in the series as that had both pov and I DNF because it was terrible- the writing in these book got worse instead of better
Meh i enjoyed the first one but this wasn’t it- I kept seeing this on my fyp and I knew the tropes wasn’t my thing but I liked the first so i thought I could make through it- and this book told me that was right and I don’t like single parents/ family that haven’t been together from the beginning - in all honesty I wasn’t that arse with the tropes but man I hate kids in books 😂 the writing was my main issue with the book as both mmcs were whiny and childish and that basically the whole book + sex- I skipped half the books because I needed to know what happened because for some reason I was glued either tho I felt like I was reading a rubbish Christmas romance and ngl the ending wasn’t anything special- I also didn’t like that it wasn’t in both pov but only the fmcs again
*I tried to read the last in the series as that had both pov and I DNF because it was terrible- the writing in these book got worse instead of better
June 23, 2022
Steph and Cal have a long history. He was her first love, but hadn’t seen him in 20 years. All of sudden he’s working at the same place she is, only problem is she is now married with kids.
Throughout this book there is a constant sexual tension and unresolved feelings. I feel like a Cal was disrespectful at times because he was constantly pushing Steph to cheat… and Steph, she could never make up her mind on what she wanted. She let pretty much everyone in her life including her husband walk all over her.
The characters are real, the writing is great. This book does end on a cliff hanger, cannot not wait to see what happens next.
Throughout this book there is a constant sexual tension and unresolved feelings. I feel like a Cal was disrespectful at times because he was constantly pushing Steph to cheat… and Steph, she could never make up her mind on what she wanted. She let pretty much everyone in her life including her husband walk all over her.
The characters are real, the writing is great. This book does end on a cliff hanger, cannot not wait to see what happens next.
October 2, 2022
TW Cheating - hence the name Temptation Series ;-)
What do you do when your first love appears in your office, and brings up all those past feelings that you thought you had buried deep. Thats what happens to Steph, who's unhappy, and wondering about the what ifs - then Cal walks straight back in from her past.
I really enjoyed this story, I loved how normal she was, plus size and flawed. Lets face it, no one is perfect, and what I loved about this story was the imperfections.
Plot and pacing was good, and as it's a book about cheating is obviously full of angst and emotion.
Definitely recommend, and the next on is on my TBR.
What do you do when your first love appears in your office, and brings up all those past feelings that you thought you had buried deep. Thats what happens to Steph, who's unhappy, and wondering about the what ifs - then Cal walks straight back in from her past.
I really enjoyed this story, I loved how normal she was, plus size and flawed. Lets face it, no one is perfect, and what I loved about this story was the imperfections.
Plot and pacing was good, and as it's a book about cheating is obviously full of angst and emotion.
Definitely recommend, and the next on is on my TBR.
August 21, 2024
Wow! Cal is incredible! I’m so conflicted about this book. The writing was amazing, and even though I usually dislike this type of trope, I couldn’t stop reading. It was truly a love-hate relationship for me. A lot of people say they feel sorry for Justin, but honestly, he didn’t treat the FMC like someone he loved. It wasn’t until one scene that he even gave off good husband vibes. So, I don’t feel any remorse for him, though I understand why some might not like the FMC's actions—that's where I draw the line. However, I love the intensity of the MMC, except for that one revelation with the pictures. To sum it all up, I’m still confused! 😂
May 15, 2022
Does first love deserve a second chance?
This may not be a story for everyone, as the main character Steph does cheat on her husband. But life does not have to imitate art… just because you enjoy this book doesn’t mean you are a cheater!
Steph and Cal are surprisingly reunited after years apart, and the story follows their unsure journey forward while flashing back to their rocky past. I found both characters to be really relatable, and the story just sucks you in! It’s such a roller coaster, I read this book in one sitting!
This may not be a story for everyone, as the main character Steph does cheat on her husband. But life does not have to imitate art… just because you enjoy this book doesn’t mean you are a cheater!
Steph and Cal are surprisingly reunited after years apart, and the story follows their unsure journey forward while flashing back to their rocky past. I found both characters to be really relatable, and the story just sucks you in! It’s such a roller coaster, I read this book in one sitting!
June 8, 2022
While I did enjoy the book, it did drag on - but, I couldn't put it down.
The characters were likeable, except I kinda didn't Steph's husband Justin, he never could just give her a compliment, he was always on her about her appearance; but when Cal comes back into her life, unexpectantly, her life is turned upside down and back about 20 years. The love she had for him never died - and the attraction and chemistry was as hot as ever. Cal preyed on her need for affection and love - she wanted to feel needed and desired - Cal gave her what Justin didn't.
The characters were likeable, except I kinda didn't Steph's husband Justin, he never could just give her a compliment, he was always on her about her appearance; but when Cal comes back into her life, unexpectantly, her life is turned upside down and back about 20 years. The love she had for him never died - and the attraction and chemistry was as hot as ever. Cal preyed on her need for affection and love - she wanted to feel needed and desired - Cal gave her what Justin didn't.
September 17, 2023
It was kinda "fun" at the start of it, then it got completely messy and at the end i just coulnd't handle it.
Its an ok story i just couldn't find a way to like the female lead, she gives u this obsessed vibes and its kinda irritating when you get into the later parts of the book.
The little love she has for herself says alot, even her mother walks all over her and she says nothing which is frustrating.
I never give less than 2 stars to books, let's just say that my 3 stars review ends up being a 2 stars one.
Its an ok story i just couldn't find a way to like the female lead, she gives u this obsessed vibes and its kinda irritating when you get into the later parts of the book.
The little love she has for herself says alot, even her mother walks all over her and she says nothing which is frustrating.
I never give less than 2 stars to books, let's just say that my 3 stars review ends up being a 2 stars one.
February 27, 2024
emotional hopeful sad medium-paced
Plot- or character-driven? A mix
Strong character development? No
Loveable characters? It's complicated
Diverse cast of characters? Yes
Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
2.5
Idk how I felt about this book. I love the angst between Cal and Steph but I was not here for the cheating like 99% of the book and it was only ok because Justin was cheating too which I called the moment Maxine (I think that was her name) stepped into the picture. The smut was there along with plot so that was good but it felt a bit lacking to me.
Plot- or character-driven? A mix
Strong character development? No
Loveable characters? It's complicated
Diverse cast of characters? Yes
Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
2.5
Idk how I felt about this book. I love the angst between Cal and Steph but I was not here for the cheating like 99% of the book and it was only ok because Justin was cheating too which I called the moment Maxine (I think that was her name) stepped into the picture. The smut was there along with plot so that was good but it felt a bit lacking to me.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
March 7, 2025
I really don't mind the infidelity. Jason wasn't a nice guy and I understand that Steph wanted something more in her life.
But I was so frustrated by Steph being such a pushover for both Jason and Cal and even to her mother. So many times I wanted to just scream for her to stand up for herself! Also her being so desperate was a bit cringe at times. Though that might just be her low self-esteem and maybe depression also speaking? But even so her throwing herself to Cal at any given moment was a bit pathetic.
This all being said I really loved this book and of course Cal. He is the most interesting character in this series.
But I was so frustrated by Steph being such a pushover for both Jason and Cal and even to her mother. So many times I wanted to just scream for her to stand up for herself! Also her being so desperate was a bit cringe at times. Though that might just be her low self-esteem and maybe depression also speaking? But even so her throwing herself to Cal at any given moment was a bit pathetic.
This all being said I really loved this book and of course Cal. He is the most interesting character in this series.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
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