What do you think?
Rate this book
Never Now: A timeless tale of forbidden love
In 17th century England, a time of Stewart Kings and naval war, noble Lady Isabelle has eagerly awaited a summer of solitude at her family’s coastal estate in the quiet seaside town of Gillingham. Hoping to leave the rumours of her impending betrothal in London, Isabelle had planned to spend her last summer of innocence alone, painting by the sea and riding her horses to the cape, but everything changes the moment a handsome naval sailor charms his way into her tightly controlled life of expectations. Caught in a battle of love and fear, Isabelle is forced to face the demons that have plagued her since childhood in this timeless tale of forbidden love.
264 pages, Kindle Edition
Published September 7, 2021
10 people are currently reading
39 people want to read
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 14 of 14 reviews
November 10, 2021
When the author reached out to me to read her debut Never Now, I was immediately drawn to the cover. So beautiful!
The story took me a bit to get into but once I did I couldn't put this book down. The story of Izzy and her gorgeous naval sailor gave me all the feels. One minute my cheeks hurt from smiling and the next I was shocked. It's quite the whirlwind of emotions.
I am very happy to see there's another book coming out soon. I'm interested to see where the story goes from here.
Thanks so much to the author for my gifted copy!
The story took me a bit to get into but once I did I couldn't put this book down. The story of Izzy and her gorgeous naval sailor gave me all the feels. One minute my cheeks hurt from smiling and the next I was shocked. It's quite the whirlwind of emotions.
I am very happy to see there's another book coming out soon. I'm interested to see where the story goes from here.
Thanks so much to the author for my gifted copy!
January 5, 2022
Never Now is a fascinating romance tale set in the life and times of the 17th century during Stewart Kings and naval war.
In an era where women were pawns moved around a political chessboard at the whim of fathers, kings, and guardians. Lady Isabelle, daughter of the King's favorite Nobleman who wants to give her away to a suitable suitor in order to secure his position and the crown.
So Lady Isabelle craved to spend her last summer of solitude at her family's costal estate in the cozy seaside town of Gillingham. Hoping to cherish her time riding her horse to the cape and painting by the sea, not knowing that behind the rising and swelling in waves, there would come a charming and passionate naval sailor who would change all her expected life plans.
Both Izzy and Jon were wonderful and complex characters that kept trying to make things right with the cards that life have given them despite everyone being against them and conspiring to keep the couple from making their own piece in the novel that uniquely displays the few options noblewomen of the time had to create a life for themselves. I loved how each of the MC's has a purpose, a past, life and breath of their own which made them so realistic.
The story moves at a good pace and the constant action kept me turning the pages because there was always something going on.
Dee's writing is so poetic and dreamy as she sweeps you away to another place and time. The author has skillfully reconstructed an era in which women of high births were considered chattel and men were absent for great periods of time, and allowed her characters to grow and learn to love each other within that historical framework!
I cannot wait to read more by this author who has such a wonderful gift of prose and enmeshing the reader into the life of the characters and the history of the times. Prepared to be grabbed by the first page and not let go until the end! I would recommend this to anyone who enjoys medieval romances and forbidden love trope! Trust me you can't go wrong with a medieval romance that is full of political intrigue, romance, suspense, honor, devotion, hope, fear and lots of love!
In an era where women were pawns moved around a political chessboard at the whim of fathers, kings, and guardians. Lady Isabelle, daughter of the King's favorite Nobleman who wants to give her away to a suitable suitor in order to secure his position and the crown.
So Lady Isabelle craved to spend her last summer of solitude at her family's costal estate in the cozy seaside town of Gillingham. Hoping to cherish her time riding her horse to the cape and painting by the sea, not knowing that behind the rising and swelling in waves, there would come a charming and passionate naval sailor who would change all her expected life plans.
Both Izzy and Jon were wonderful and complex characters that kept trying to make things right with the cards that life have given them despite everyone being against them and conspiring to keep the couple from making their own piece in the novel that uniquely displays the few options noblewomen of the time had to create a life for themselves. I loved how each of the MC's has a purpose, a past, life and breath of their own which made them so realistic.
The story moves at a good pace and the constant action kept me turning the pages because there was always something going on.
Dee's writing is so poetic and dreamy as she sweeps you away to another place and time. The author has skillfully reconstructed an era in which women of high births were considered chattel and men were absent for great periods of time, and allowed her characters to grow and learn to love each other within that historical framework!
I cannot wait to read more by this author who has such a wonderful gift of prose and enmeshing the reader into the life of the characters and the history of the times. Prepared to be grabbed by the first page and not let go until the end! I would recommend this to anyone who enjoys medieval romances and forbidden love trope! Trust me you can't go wrong with a medieval romance that is full of political intrigue, romance, suspense, honor, devotion, hope, fear and lots of love!
January 3, 2022
Never Now is the debut novel of Lindsay Dee. It's about a forbidden romance between a noblewoman named Isabelle and a sailor named Jon. They meet the summer before Izzy is to be betrothed to the gentleman/jerk William. Jon and Izzy sneak around to spend as much time together as possible and things between them heat up. But they both know they can't be together because of their positions in life.
This book was pretty fast-paced and it was interesting enough that I finished it in two sittings. It was an easy read and all of the characters were likeable. The author used clear descriptions and I was able to picture everything in my mind.
I look forward to reading the sequel to find out what happens to Jon and Isabelle!
This book was pretty fast-paced and it was interesting enough that I finished it in two sittings. It was an easy read and all of the characters were likeable. The author used clear descriptions and I was able to picture everything in my mind.
I look forward to reading the sequel to find out what happens to Jon and Isabelle!
December 27, 2021
A 17th Century forbidden love story about two people who are never meant to fall in love.
Never Now follows Lady Isabelle as she travels to her summer retreat to escape her fathers betrothal antics. Izzy beauty is striking, as she could save the crown if married off to the right suitor. A helpless romantic, she wants to fall in love with someone who appreciates her passion for horses, the arts and her fierce independence. One fateful day she meets a young Naval Officer who sweeps her off her feet to forbidden rendezvous. Her heart is full until he goes off to war forcing her to accept her forced fate.
This historical romance is filled with romantic suspense as they anchor themselves together, fighting the caste system in play for their futures. Can their forbidden love weather the storms trying to keep them apart? Great debut novel in the HF genre.
Thank you Lindsay Dee for the complimentary copy of the novel.
Never Now follows Lady Isabelle as she travels to her summer retreat to escape her fathers betrothal antics. Izzy beauty is striking, as she could save the crown if married off to the right suitor. A helpless romantic, she wants to fall in love with someone who appreciates her passion for horses, the arts and her fierce independence. One fateful day she meets a young Naval Officer who sweeps her off her feet to forbidden rendezvous. Her heart is full until he goes off to war forcing her to accept her forced fate.
This historical romance is filled with romantic suspense as they anchor themselves together, fighting the caste system in play for their futures. Can their forbidden love weather the storms trying to keep them apart? Great debut novel in the HF genre.
Thank you Lindsay Dee for the complimentary copy of the novel.
November 28, 2021
I was thrilled and honoured to receive a copy of Never Now from the author recently. I love reading historical fiction and romance and this book checks both boxes for me.
The book is set in 17th century England in a picturesque seaside town. The story follows Lady Isabelle, a young noblewoman woman struggling under parental and social pressures, soon to be betrothed to an arrogant womanizer. By chance Izzy meets Jon, a merchant naval officer and they secretly begin spending time together. Through these forbidden meetings they find friendship and then romance blooms before they’re ripped away from each other by war.
I really enjoyed being transported to another place and time through this story of forbidden love. The setting was so dreamy! I loved reading about Isabelle riding horses near her father’s estate. I can’t wait to read the sequel when it comes out!
The book is set in 17th century England in a picturesque seaside town. The story follows Lady Isabelle, a young noblewoman woman struggling under parental and social pressures, soon to be betrothed to an arrogant womanizer. By chance Izzy meets Jon, a merchant naval officer and they secretly begin spending time together. Through these forbidden meetings they find friendship and then romance blooms before they’re ripped away from each other by war.
I really enjoyed being transported to another place and time through this story of forbidden love. The setting was so dreamy! I loved reading about Isabelle riding horses near her father’s estate. I can’t wait to read the sequel when it comes out!
March 11, 2022
The story of Isabelle and Jon gave me all the feels! It’s a cute & simple historical romance – Rich/Royal girl x poor/sailor boy trope, secret dating and second chances! (& yes there are some spicy scenes too)
Once I got to the middle I couldn’t put the book down anymore, I just had to finish it and find out if they’ll get their happy ending. — The book is definitely worth a read if you love historical romances. Also i would rather recommend this book for adults rather than teens just because I feel it’s rather written in a mature style and time period I guess.
I was so excited and happy when the lovely author gifted me a copy of her amazing book! Again thank you so much, Miss Lindsay Dee <3
Once I got to the middle I couldn’t put the book down anymore, I just had to finish it and find out if they’ll get their happy ending. — The book is definitely worth a read if you love historical romances. Also i would rather recommend this book for adults rather than teens just because I feel it’s rather written in a mature style and time period I guess.
I was so excited and happy when the lovely author gifted me a copy of her amazing book! Again thank you so much, Miss Lindsay Dee <3
January 9, 2022
This was beautifully written. Isabelle and Jon had a heartbreakingly beautiful story.
As I was reading I just kept thinking this would make an interesting show in the vein of something like the tudors. You have the noble girls living it up in this seaside town, the sailors, a war going on, and you could see what was going on politically. I was also super interested in Isabelle’s friend group because they were all so different.
I liked that Isabelle and Jon took an interest in each other’s interests and actually spent time together. There were so hard things in their lives. It was a well told and great story though.
As I was reading I just kept thinking this would make an interesting show in the vein of something like the tudors. You have the noble girls living it up in this seaside town, the sailors, a war going on, and you could see what was going on politically. I was also super interested in Isabelle’s friend group because they were all so different.
I liked that Isabelle and Jon took an interest in each other’s interests and actually spent time together. There were so hard things in their lives. It was a well told and great story though.
March 9, 2022
This book is such a great historical romance read. It is a thrilling and captivating love story with the forbidden romance trope, beautiful countryside rides, masquerade balls, sweet friendships, court politics and rumours, the wars and strategies, with most vivid characters, and lush and vibrant settings. Set in 1660s England during the time of Stewart Kings and Naval war, this book gives all the feels of 17th Century England, the atmosphere, the settings, the social values and norms, the fashion, court politics and war, everything is depicted perfectly.
It tells a story of Isabelle and Jon, Isabelle is the daughter of a King's favourite nobleman, and Jon is a sailor. They met in Gillingham where Isabelle came to spend a summer of solitude at her family's coastal estate. She is to be betrothed for political gain for her father and the King. But things changed when she met Jon who is charming and handsome but just a poor sailor.
Character development in this book was so fine, Isabelle grew so much emotionally, learning confidence, independence, and pleasure. And Jon learning love, separation, loss, and the horrors of war. Their story was heart touching and full of feels.
The writing was beautiful and fluid, the chapters were short and that made it easier to read. I was able to read it in just two sittings as I was completely drawn into the story of Isabelle and Jon, and couldn't put down the book.
Overall this book is a feast for the senses and I highly recommend it to all historical romance lovers.
It tells a story of Isabelle and Jon, Isabelle is the daughter of a King's favourite nobleman, and Jon is a sailor. They met in Gillingham where Isabelle came to spend a summer of solitude at her family's coastal estate. She is to be betrothed for political gain for her father and the King. But things changed when she met Jon who is charming and handsome but just a poor sailor.
Character development in this book was so fine, Isabelle grew so much emotionally, learning confidence, independence, and pleasure. And Jon learning love, separation, loss, and the horrors of war. Their story was heart touching and full of feels.
The writing was beautiful and fluid, the chapters were short and that made it easier to read. I was able to read it in just two sittings as I was completely drawn into the story of Isabelle and Jon, and couldn't put down the book.
Overall this book is a feast for the senses and I highly recommend it to all historical romance lovers.
August 8, 2022
If you're thinking of picking this one up let me tell you that it is worth every single emotion you will feel because when all of the broken pieces are put back together it is truly magical - you just need to be prepared to embark on the journey to get there. The writing in this book is so powerful, this author is an expert at ripping my heart out in a book and then somehow she manages to mend it back together again. I like the story here and the characterisation. Well written, nicely paced and interesting. This book was phenomenal.
I loved everything about this book. I just wish it had been a little more longer because my heart wanted to read more and more. After reading every page, I was curious to jump on to the next. Great characters and the storyline is different and engaging Worth reading!
I read this book all at one time, every time that I went to put it down, something else started. I loved this book for it's unforgettable characters, and realistic emotions. Once I started reading, I couldn’t stop. If you are looking for a great read, add "Never Now: A timeless tale of forbidden love" to your list. The author left no stones unturned when writing this unforgettable page-turner story.
I think it's a good book that will make you tremble, leave you speechless, hold your breath, make you eager to read it. And it will leave you thinking about it long after you finished it. The writing is flawless and the story is not compelled by a plot, it's driven by its characters. It's amazing!
I loved everything about this book. I just wish it had been a little more longer because my heart wanted to read more and more. After reading every page, I was curious to jump on to the next. Great characters and the storyline is different and engaging Worth reading!
I read this book all at one time, every time that I went to put it down, something else started. I loved this book for it's unforgettable characters, and realistic emotions. Once I started reading, I couldn’t stop. If you are looking for a great read, add "Never Now: A timeless tale of forbidden love" to your list. The author left no stones unturned when writing this unforgettable page-turner story.
I think it's a good book that will make you tremble, leave you speechless, hold your breath, make you eager to read it. And it will leave you thinking about it long after you finished it. The writing is flawless and the story is not compelled by a plot, it's driven by its characters. It's amazing!
August 8, 2022
I randomly came across this beautiful book while searching for a good novel to read and the curiosity to know what lies within the pages consumed me. The cover and the title grabbed my attention and I couldn't resist reading it, hoping for it to be an interesting read and I'm glad to say that it lived up beyond my expectations.
The story is set in 17th century England, a time of Stewart Kings. And this is something that piqued my interest. The author was able to convey such great emotions with her words and I fell in love with the characters and their emotions. Isabelle and Jon are wonderful and very attractive characters. Excellent story. I could completely relate to this book. This story will make you think deeply about the emotions, it can make you smile, can make you cry, you will feel mixed emotions.
It's a wonderful book, I loved every scene, I felt every moment, and I will never forget this story. I don’t give out a lot of 5 star ratings but the truth is that this book went above and beyond. In the beginners, I wasn't sure if I was going to like this or not, but once I'd gotten a little way in I was totally hooked into it.
The story was powerful, the writing was stunning, and the way every single piece of it was woven together was simply breathtaking. I would definitely recommend this book to everyone.
The story is set in 17th century England, a time of Stewart Kings. And this is something that piqued my interest. The author was able to convey such great emotions with her words and I fell in love with the characters and their emotions. Isabelle and Jon are wonderful and very attractive characters. Excellent story. I could completely relate to this book. This story will make you think deeply about the emotions, it can make you smile, can make you cry, you will feel mixed emotions.
It's a wonderful book, I loved every scene, I felt every moment, and I will never forget this story. I don’t give out a lot of 5 star ratings but the truth is that this book went above and beyond. In the beginners, I wasn't sure if I was going to like this or not, but once I'd gotten a little way in I was totally hooked into it.
The story was powerful, the writing was stunning, and the way every single piece of it was woven together was simply breathtaking. I would definitely recommend this book to everyone.
December 15, 2021
Read if you like:
Historical fiction✔️
Forbidden romance✔️
Romantic suspense✔️
Isabelle is looking forward to spending the summer back at her family’s estate in Gillingham. She finally feels like she can breathe and not be under her father’s control. The time is ticking though as her father will soon choose who she will marry and she’ll have absolutely no say in it. She unexpectedly meets a handsome sailor named Jon. Sparks fly and they must sneak away to spend time together. Can they keep their forbidden romance a secret?
What an incredibly lovely debut novel! It’s a page turning tale of forbidden romance that completely captured my heart! Such an emotional and suspenseful journey that had me on the edge of my seat! The chemistry between Isabelle and Jon is off the charts! You could just feel the electricity between them. The moonlight lagoon chapter was by my favorite! 🔥🔥🔥 If you love historical romance, this is a must read! I absolutely cannot wait to read the sequel, Only Now!
Thank you so much Lindsay Dee for the gifted copy!
Historical fiction✔️
Forbidden romance✔️
Romantic suspense✔️
Isabelle is looking forward to spending the summer back at her family’s estate in Gillingham. She finally feels like she can breathe and not be under her father’s control. The time is ticking though as her father will soon choose who she will marry and she’ll have absolutely no say in it. She unexpectedly meets a handsome sailor named Jon. Sparks fly and they must sneak away to spend time together. Can they keep their forbidden romance a secret?
What an incredibly lovely debut novel! It’s a page turning tale of forbidden romance that completely captured my heart! Such an emotional and suspenseful journey that had me on the edge of my seat! The chemistry between Isabelle and Jon is off the charts! You could just feel the electricity between them. The moonlight lagoon chapter was by my favorite! 🔥🔥🔥 If you love historical romance, this is a must read! I absolutely cannot wait to read the sequel, Only Now!
Thank you so much Lindsay Dee for the gifted copy!
June 3, 2022
Lindsay Dee's novel Never Now is a captivating 17th-century England summer romance that tells a timeless tale of forbidden love. One of my favorite quotes from Never Now is: "Some say fear and love is all there is. If we strip everything raw, they would be there- in the bones. A constant negotiation between heart and mind, they battle and stir, and prick us from within. But how much love are we willing to trade for the comfort of our fears?" Such a powerful, brilliant, and stirring quote! I recommend Never Now to anyone looking for a love story that will touch the heart! <3
February 12, 2022
I was super excited when the author reached out to me about reviewing this book. I mean that gorgeous cover alone! Add in historical fiction and a forbidden love interest and I was set to be hooked. Unfortunately that didn't quite happen. It started off quite slow and took me a bit to get into. While I did eventually get caught up in Izzy and Jon's love affair, something about the writing style just wasn't for me. A big thing being how the narration perspective would unexpectedly change from paragraph to paragraph at times throwing me off. I did like how Izzy seemed to buck the societal norms of her time making her a somewhat strong female character . But even then her waffling and indecisiveness made her hard to truly love. Over all a quick read that while I did enjoy it, I didn't love it.
October 2, 2022
I love romantic period pieces and this book filled my heart - I read it in two sittings. The love story is both slow burning and spicy. There were so many intriguing characters, I can't wait for the sequel. This story needs to be turned into a TV series or movie asap! If you like the Tudors or Outlander, you'll likely love this book.
Displaying 1 - 14 of 14 reviews