The Circle of Friends Series should be read in the following order before Somewhere To Bloom.Second ChancesForever YoursWinner Takes All (Book one in the Baxter Park series is a B. P. & K. C. collaboration)
*REVISED ON 5/7/22.*
This story features mature language and love scenes. It is a slow burn with low angst.
WELCOME BACK TO KISMET COVE!
Abomination. That’s what Thomas Brewster’s father decreed him before he took his first breath. He’d always feared it to be true, then fate sent him a blessing in the form of his first love, Louella Kemp. They were inseparable and planned to spend forever together. The NBA superstar was on top of the world. Until the unthinkable happened. In the blink of an eye, he lost everything, proving the curse was real.
Recluse. It’s what Tommy has become. Now, his appearance reflects the stigma on his soul, and he’s determined to live out his days in self-imposed exile. That is, until the night she shows up in his garden. Jade Davies, his ex-best friend’s little sister, is a line Tommy can’t cross, no matter how enticing. He’s fighting several battles, except, this is one he’s destined to lose to the spirited artist. There are a million reasons why they won’t work but only one that will conquer them all - love.
D. A. Young is a best-selling author and lover of multilayered adventures. Food, traveling, and music are her passions. You can often find all three in the contemporary escapades she creates.
Must read. A book that will make you heart weep and smile
I felt so many emotions while reading this book. The back history that D.A Young throws down in this book, give you so much information so that you can really understand their story.
I really enjoy it when authors can make us dislike someone in the book. But then turn around and give you a different point of view of them. Sometimes, this works out in their favor of having us readers change our way of thinking about that character. Or sometimes it makes you dislike them even more and their decisions. But in this case, it really gave you the feeling that 2nd chances are possible.
One thing about reading this book was that I kind of had a dislike towards Fallon and Zay. The fact that Fallon made a threat to Jade about if she hurt Zay, threw me off, and made me raise an eye brow at her.
The thoughts that cross my mind and ended up coming out of my mouth were, "Girl, you need to slow your roll. You're meeting her for the 2nd time and coming at her like that. Nah, step back and have several seats." This part in the book threw me since Zay was the one in the wrong and overstepping. Jade did nothing wrong in voicing what she wanted to do with her life. Zay didn't like the decisions she made and the fact that she was pregnant. He overstep hard, and Jade put him in his place. Overall, it gave me a bad taste about Fallon that she thought it was okay for her to say that when she knew nothing. Then, for Jade to say, she "respected her for that." Nah boo, she was disrespectful and untasteful. I believe it was the entitlement that they felt like they could say or do wtv to Jade. Since they were older and overcame, their issues made me SMH at them. Especially Zay. He really showed where he truly stood on Tommy. Zay has made mistakes in the past concerning Fallon. He even got caught with his hand in the cookie jar by Fallon. But wants to keep throwing shade at Tommy. But in the same breath, pretend that he's really there for him. This is why I love that Tommy called BS to it. He called it when he said that they're only trying to be there because of his scars. And Zay showed that that was a big part of the reason why he kept reaching out to him.
Like I said in the beginning, I really enjoy how D.A Young, have you see things from a different point of view, because whoa I was not ready for that.
Jade and Tommy are like two broken puzzle pieces that become whole when put together. Yes, what Tommy did in the past was heartbreaking. But the way D.A Young goes about having both main parties able to recover makes me smile and become content.
Both main characters' stories are heartbreaking. They go through so much as kids. Especially Tommy. The things he went through made me close my eyes and shake my head in sorrow. My heart goes out to him, his soul was tormented, and he deserves his HEA.
There are a lot of things that happen in this book that I'm more than excited for, D.A Young to make a book about. One book I am excited to read would be LInc and Savvy story. I can not wait to read their book. The tension between Divina and Savvy has me more than curious. The fact that Linc is being blunt and called Savvy out on her actions has me thinking, "Ohh. What's this about?" 👀 .
Plus, there were some knew characters brought up that made me wonder what their story was.
Overall, I was more than pleased to read this book. As well as completely changed my opinion of Tommy. Tommy was not ready for Jade to come in and change his world for the better.
I hope to see more of them in the future books of D.A Young. Especially with their kid as well, I would love to see how all the kids get along together. ❤
this is Tommy and Jade's story. I was hesitant to read this book because I didn't see how DA Young could redeem Tommy. Backstory: We know Tommy as one of the Circle of Friends. He dated and was married to Ella (Lou) they were high school sweethearts. their marriage fell apart when Ella got pregnant. Tommy didn't want the baby and began cheating on Ella. Long story short, Ella ended up losing the baby because of Tommy. the Circle of Friends turned on him and he became a recluse. Also important to Tommy's backstory is his face became partially deformed after rescuing his former best friend and brother from a fire.
When we meet Tommy in this book, he is a lonely, grumpy, former basketball star. He lives on an island with minimal contact with the outside world. He is full of guilt and childhood trauma and doesn't believe he deserves better. Enter Jade. Jade's pregnant by a psychopath and she reaches out toTommy to live on his estate in hiding. she also a popular artist.
this was a beautiful redemption story. Jade literally poured life into Tommy. she transformed his life from a black and white existence to a world full of vibrant colors. I loved how they grew to love each other and helped each other heal. Jade gave him confidence to exist in the world again and also helped him heal fractures with his Circle of Friends.
one thing I thought was a bit silly was the doctor who delivered Tommy recognizing him as an adult after seeing him once. And then sharing info with Tommy that helped heal old wounds. farfetched, at best.
overall, really enjoyed this story. solid addition to this series.
My goodness this was an excellent book! Well written, well developed characters, and well paced. Tommy and Jade have a contentious past due to him saving her when they were young and her not being grateful, thankful or remorseful. Even though he was her brothers ex-best friend, she still hid a special place for him within her.
As they grew and life happened she marched to the beat of her artistic drum, jumping in without hesitation in all things including romantic relationships. Unfortunately her carefree impulsiveness bites her in the butt and now she has consequences. Tommy has a life altering event that affected him mentally, physically and emotionally. He was never the same and couldn’t find the desire care. This special garden in Tommy’s house is life changing because it gives peace, safety, love, healing, and renewal to all who encounter it. It gave them a space to bloom into their best selves.
My favorite quote from the book is:
“Whenever I’m feeling overwhelmed and doubt crowds in, it’s time to declutter and embrace a new chapter. The only constant we have is change. Who you used to be doesn’t matter; it’s who you’re becoming that will require your undivided attention because growth entails not only carving out your own space but learning to live and thrive in it too. Surviving is just existing, no more, no less. I hope you know that.”
Tommy and Jade's storyline is the third book in the Circle Of Friends Series. Suffering a tragedy from his past Tommy condemns himself to a self imposed exiled... until Jade enters his life again. Jade is keeping a low profile to escape a situation from her past. Bringing a secret with her. Tommy, Zay/family and Grant will do whatever it takes to protect Jade. Tommy attempts to keep his distance, but is drawn to her vivacious soul. He knows that if he crosses the line it will be problematic. But, love has a mind of its own. Tommy and Jade's connection is obvious and undeniable. A revelation is revealed from Tommy's birth. Exposing lies he was told, providing him closure and retribution. Read Tommy and Jade's love story as it grows and blossoms.
This is a book of healing love & friendship. It is about breaking generational traumas & going forth into new lives. Tommy is a character from the previous books I honestly wasn't feeling. But in reading of the renewed friendship & eventual love with Jade we get to see the hidden Tommy. We get to see just what shaped & molded him into who he is & who he can be. The garden that at Tommy's house where Jade comes to heal over her betrayal sounds beautiful. The clearing of the air about past hurts from previous characters in Kismet Cove & Circle of Friends series was gratifying. I look forward to any & continued books by D A Young. Love really is so amazing ❤
Wow!!! I had to come into this book with a different mindset because truthfully, I never wanted Tommy to have a happy ending. I felt like he didn't deserve one. After reading the first couple of chapters, I realized just how wrong I was. Tommy deserved his happiness more than anyone. People change and grow and that is exactly what Tommy did. As MG said, his pain wasn't in vain. As usual, Ms. Young did her thang with this book. Highly recommended. Redemption and healing are always great things.
This one was a battle hard one. They had to work over family fiends and battle foes. Their journey made for a better romance with a bit of life thrown in. I loved seeing some of the old friends and making some new ones.
Young blends past and present very well. We she What lead both Tommy and Jade to their current places in life. We visit the demons that huant them. I found it to be a well rounded story with lead to other directions for other characters.
Jade and the baby was just what Tommy needed to bring him out his shell. All Tommy wanted to do was wallow in his self pity but here comes Jade crashing his party. It was the best thing that ever happened to him. They had similar backgrounds. Both of their fathers were horrible men. Tommy tried to right his wrongs by doing good things for the community unbeknownst to anyone else. I'm glad he finally got his happiness.💝💝
This was such a stunning story,that kinda ends a fantastic series. This was long over due,Thomas story had to be done just right and Jade was just the right person for him. The story moves in a way that draws you in on something of a in your face move and backed off into that lazy river routine. This was not only fun but it was sexy and get over yourself good.
The first part of bk was ok then jade got dreadfully boring, critizing everyone when she was a hore, cant turn a hoe into a housewife, but she tried to turn tomme, z i would want that fucker dead, he didnt care that tommy nearly died saving his ungrateful ass, i would let him die overall bk was boring AF waiste of reading time
The healing and forgivenesses that thread this story and tale of friends and lovers is everything. The ending was beautiful! There are a couple of storylines that I’m hoping we’ll get closure on like Charlie and Officer Mike as well a Fallon’s assistant.
D.A. Young is a wonderful writer. Her stories are relatable and they pull you in and you become part of the fantasy. I loved this book from start to finish. I would recommend this book and all of the Baxter Park , Kismet Cove and of course Whiskey Row stories to any and every one who loves romance and sexy hero's and she-roes!
This book was so good I couldn't put it down. I love the gradual union of Thomas and Jade love story. Thomas meeting Martin was part of the closure he needed regarding his mother. Love how Tommy and Jade supported each other with love and communication. Tommy and Ella, having closure is my favorite part of the story.
D A. Young is a master storyteller...I wasnt sure how to feel about Tommy, but dam this story took you down highs and some other surprises that ultimately made you smile, laugh and few tears... This story was well worth the wait. Loved it
I have been waiting patiently to return to Kismet Cove to learn about Tommy. This book is an absolute must read. The complete series is a MUST Have. Tommy and Jade’s love was so sincere and heartfelt. Love love this story…
I just loved this read. Jade being Witty and straight forward and Tommy coming out of his shell because of the Aura jade had around her was amazing. I didn’t want the book to end.
I enjoyed this story from beginning to end. Jade was such a bright light that overshadowed Tommy's darkness. I honestly didn't expect to warm up to Tommy but like I said Jade makes everything good.
Another great book I could not put down! Loved the twists and turns of Jade and Tommy’s story. Love is love regardless of other’s opinions. Happy they found theirs 💕
I loved Tommy’s redemption story. He had his reasons for being who he was before things got real for him. Glad he got closure and Jade was a perfect match. The one thing I didn’t like was that Zay felt he was entitled to act a certain way with Tommy but other than that good read.
This couple...the continuous back and forth, angst between Tommy and Jade made this love story timeless. It's modern day Beauty and the Beast and I loved every word. D.A. Young continues to amaze me with her stories and I can't wait to read more...
I absolutely loved this story. Tommy has really come into himself and it was wonderful to witness. I love Jade. She owns who she is unapologetically and it’s who/what we all strive for as human beings. Way to go Ms. Young
This was labeled as a BMWM read. But I definitely couldn't tell by the descriptions of the characters. All in all it was a pretty good story. And what were the ages of the main characters?
This was cute. Tommy’s redemption story was very well done. I loved the way Jade pulled him out of his self induced angry shell.The whole falling in love with a man while you’re pregnant was interesting but I rocked with it. Tommy and Jade made a great couple. Very sexy.
This had me on the fence at first!!!!! Cuz how you gonna have Tommy with Jade!?!?!?! Wait what!?! No Ma’am!!!! But, I digress.. and came around. I’m still side eyeing though. That’s a ton of forgiveness and redemption for ole Tommy! lol
There is so much emotion and lots of healing in this one. Jade and Tommy are fire. Only Jade could bring Tommy out of his shell and start living again. Tommy and Ella get closure and both get to live hea.
Tommy and Jade sitting in a tree. Loved this slow burn. A very nice follow up. It was good to see everyone settled and happy. Years of issues resolved.