What do you think?
Rate this book
Things She Never Said
ALL TRIGGER/CONTENT WARNINGS LISTED AT LINDSEYCORD(dot)COM
WHAT IF THE ONLY WAY TO SAVE YOURSELF IS TO LEAVE BEHIND EVERYTHING YOU’VE EVER KNOWN?
Growing up, Reagan Lawson had to face her share of challenges. The only person she has ever had on her side is her childhood sweetheart, Chase. So, when he gives her the perfect life, one she could only ever dream of, she becomes overwhelmed when it suddenly feels like she is drowning in it.
After becoming a mother, Reagan is plagued with the trials of new motherhood, losing herself in the process, and when she begins to harbor a dark secret about Chase, she questions if her life was ever as perfect as she thought it was. When she runs into Wells, the “grocery guy”, she can’t help but feel like he is more of a fate-inspired answer than just happenstance. She seeks refuge with him; finding security, safety, and little pieces of herself that she had been longing to get back.
But when everything is exposed and comes to a catastrophic end, Reagan is left burdened with even more life-altering secrets. Secrets that she can’t escape and that ultimately leave her to make the hardest decision of her life.
WHAT IF THE ONLY WAY TO SAVE YOURSELF IS TO LEAVE BEHIND EVERYTHING YOU’VE EVER KNOWN?
Growing up, Reagan Lawson had to face her share of challenges. The only person she has ever had on her side is her childhood sweetheart, Chase. So, when he gives her the perfect life, one she could only ever dream of, she becomes overwhelmed when it suddenly feels like she is drowning in it.
After becoming a mother, Reagan is plagued with the trials of new motherhood, losing herself in the process, and when she begins to harbor a dark secret about Chase, she questions if her life was ever as perfect as she thought it was. When she runs into Wells, the “grocery guy”, she can’t help but feel like he is more of a fate-inspired answer than just happenstance. She seeks refuge with him; finding security, safety, and little pieces of herself that she had been longing to get back.
But when everything is exposed and comes to a catastrophic end, Reagan is left burdened with even more life-altering secrets. Secrets that she can’t escape and that ultimately leave her to make the hardest decision of her life.
- GenresRomance
332 pages, Paperback
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 37 reviews
June 26, 2022
Umm hi Lindsey, I hope you’re footing the bill for my future therapy because HOLY CRAP.
I was lucky enough to receive an ARC (my first one!) from Lindsey and I seriously could not be more grateful. Even if I didn't love this book (which I 10000% DO), I would read anything that Lindsey writes just because she is such an amazing and down to earth person. I absolutely LOVED being able to update her through my progress of this book, and once I finished it and totally cried to her, she sent me all the internet hugs and finger guns.
This book destroyed me. Like emotionally, I. Am. Destroyed.
Reagan's story is a story that is way too close to my own story, that this one hurt. But it was also so refreshing to read a book with some of life's hardest trials and not have the author sugar coat it or skirt around the ugly and honest truth.
Reagan is a new mom, married to her high school sweetheart, and literally has a whole world of issues on her shoulders that she desperately tries to hide and handle all alone. Throughout this book, she makes some very questionable choices, some that I hated, but I understood why she needed to do it. The hardest part about reading Reagan's story was being able to put myself in her head and know exactly why she's feeling the way she feels. Why she's doing the things she's doing. Why she continues to let herself be treated the way she's been treated her entire life by the people who are supposed to love her the most.
She's trapped in an endless cycle of all sorts of abuse, and I hated it so much for her.
It's not easy to get off that hamster wheel once you're on it.
It's even harder to do the thing you never thought you would have to do in order to fix yourself.
The ending of this book broke my entire heart. I read the words "I tried." and literally had to put the book down and just sob the most ugly sobs. I was SO mad at Lindsey for a good 5 minutes for doing this to me.
BUT. The epilogue was worth all those angry and heartbroken tears.
I know a lot of readers are comparing this book to some of Colleen Hoover's books, and they aren't wrong. But, this one is better. Don't get me wrong, I am a die hard CoHo fan, but Lindsey adds so much more depth into some of the hardest and ugliest parts of this book which most authors have a hard time doing, and I'll forever love her for that. It's just so real.
ALSO. Lindsey added a "non-spoiler" type trigger warning page at the beginning of her book, along with support line phone numbers. I've never seen that in any of the hundreds of books I've read, and it was just amazing. Like I said, this book is hard to read, so if you like a list of trigger warnings without spoilers, please message me and I'll make sure you have that.
Lindsey, thank you for sharing Reagan's story with the world, it's tragic and beautiful all at the same time. I cannot wait to hold my signed copy and just hug and cry with it for a little bit before I have to pull myself together again. That mom life really cuts into my emotional self-destruction time.
*I received an ARC (Advance Reader Copy) of this book in exchange for an honest review*
I was lucky enough to receive an ARC (my first one!) from Lindsey and I seriously could not be more grateful. Even if I didn't love this book (which I 10000% DO), I would read anything that Lindsey writes just because she is such an amazing and down to earth person. I absolutely LOVED being able to update her through my progress of this book, and once I finished it and totally cried to her, she sent me all the internet hugs and finger guns.
This book destroyed me. Like emotionally, I. Am. Destroyed.
Reagan's story is a story that is way too close to my own story, that this one hurt. But it was also so refreshing to read a book with some of life's hardest trials and not have the author sugar coat it or skirt around the ugly and honest truth.
Reagan is a new mom, married to her high school sweetheart, and literally has a whole world of issues on her shoulders that she desperately tries to hide and handle all alone. Throughout this book, she makes some very questionable choices, some that I hated, but I understood why she needed to do it. The hardest part about reading Reagan's story was being able to put myself in her head and know exactly why she's feeling the way she feels. Why she's doing the things she's doing. Why she continues to let herself be treated the way she's been treated her entire life by the people who are supposed to love her the most.
She's trapped in an endless cycle of all sorts of abuse, and I hated it so much for her.
It's not easy to get off that hamster wheel once you're on it.
It's even harder to do the thing you never thought you would have to do in order to fix yourself.
The ending of this book broke my entire heart. I read the words "I tried." and literally had to put the book down and just sob the most ugly sobs. I was SO mad at Lindsey for a good 5 minutes for doing this to me.
BUT. The epilogue was worth all those angry and heartbroken tears.
I know a lot of readers are comparing this book to some of Colleen Hoover's books, and they aren't wrong. But, this one is better. Don't get me wrong, I am a die hard CoHo fan, but Lindsey adds so much more depth into some of the hardest and ugliest parts of this book which most authors have a hard time doing, and I'll forever love her for that. It's just so real.
ALSO. Lindsey added a "non-spoiler" type trigger warning page at the beginning of her book, along with support line phone numbers. I've never seen that in any of the hundreds of books I've read, and it was just amazing. Like I said, this book is hard to read, so if you like a list of trigger warnings without spoilers, please message me and I'll make sure you have that.
Lindsey, thank you for sharing Reagan's story with the world, it's tragic and beautiful all at the same time. I cannot wait to hold my signed copy and just hug and cry with it for a little bit before I have to pull myself together again. That mom life really cuts into my emotional self-destruction time.
*I received an ARC (Advance Reader Copy) of this book in exchange for an honest review*
June 12, 2022
Never get married and never have children. Got it.
No but seriously, this book made me feel a whole bunch. I cried, laughed and gasped too many times to count.
This arc was sent to me for free in exchange for my honest opinion.
Read it if you’re in the mood for a good cry.
No but seriously, this book made me feel a whole bunch. I cried, laughed and gasped too many times to count.
This arc was sent to me for free in exchange for my honest opinion.
Read it if you’re in the mood for a good cry.
June 5, 2022
I’ve been trying to gather my thoughts after reading this book because lord knows my brain was all over the place immediately after reading.
✨Want to start off by sending a HUGE thank you to Lindsey Cord for sending me an ARC to review ahead of release day!✨
I knew going into Things She Never Said that it was going to be a hard and emotional read. What I didn’t expect was to be so shocked that my brain truly couldn’t process any kind of emotion. A book like this is usually one that leaves me a sobbing blubbering mess but this one literally shook me so hard that I felt nothing and everything all at once.
From the prologue I was hooked. Lindsey knew what she was doing by giving us that because I immediately needed to know how this story was going to end.
Reagan is one of those characters that make it so easy for you to want to dislike her. The choices she makes throughout the book are questionable to say the least. As I was reading I had a really hard time not judging and being angry at her but I think that’s exactly what Lindsey wanted. People make questionable choices in life but that doesn’t make them bad people.
Along with the judgement I also felt so much sadness for Reagan. Reagan is a new mom and I immediately recognized some of her struggles because I’ve been in her shoes. I saw a broken woman who just needed to be supported through the biggest change of her life but couldn’t muster up the courage to ask for help. This is the sad reality of so many women and I love that Lindsey brought a little bit of awareness to the reality of PPD.
Reagan wanted so badly to do the right thing but ultimately failed in doing so and it led to a catastrophic disaster. I knew in my gut how this story was going to play out and I so badly wanted to be wrong. My heart HURT. At this point, and through the end of the book, I just felt incredible sadness for Reagan. So much loss and pain for one person to endure in a lifetime.
I honestly think this book broke me in a way I’d never been broken before.
Im not gonna lie, I wish the story was a little longer. I wish we could see Reagan’s life after the ending. I so badly wanted to see what life had in store for her after.
Thank you Lindsey for writing such a wonderful story. Every part of this book was an emotional journey and I’m terribly grateful you gave me the opportunity for read your book. ♥️
✨Want to start off by sending a HUGE thank you to Lindsey Cord for sending me an ARC to review ahead of release day!✨
I knew going into Things She Never Said that it was going to be a hard and emotional read. What I didn’t expect was to be so shocked that my brain truly couldn’t process any kind of emotion. A book like this is usually one that leaves me a sobbing blubbering mess but this one literally shook me so hard that I felt nothing and everything all at once.
From the prologue I was hooked. Lindsey knew what she was doing by giving us that because I immediately needed to know how this story was going to end.
Reagan is one of those characters that make it so easy for you to want to dislike her. The choices she makes throughout the book are questionable to say the least. As I was reading I had a really hard time not judging and being angry at her but I think that’s exactly what Lindsey wanted. People make questionable choices in life but that doesn’t make them bad people.
Along with the judgement I also felt so much sadness for Reagan. Reagan is a new mom and I immediately recognized some of her struggles because I’ve been in her shoes. I saw a broken woman who just needed to be supported through the biggest change of her life but couldn’t muster up the courage to ask for help. This is the sad reality of so many women and I love that Lindsey brought a little bit of awareness to the reality of PPD.
Reagan wanted so badly to do the right thing but ultimately failed in doing so and it led to a catastrophic disaster. I knew in my gut how this story was going to play out and I so badly wanted to be wrong. My heart HURT. At this point, and through the end of the book, I just felt incredible sadness for Reagan. So much loss and pain for one person to endure in a lifetime.
I honestly think this book broke me in a way I’d never been broken before.
Im not gonna lie, I wish the story was a little longer. I wish we could see Reagan’s life after the ending. I so badly wanted to see what life had in store for her after.
Thank you Lindsey for writing such a wonderful story. Every part of this book was an emotional journey and I’m terribly grateful you gave me the opportunity for read your book. ♥️
July 16, 2022
FEEL IT ALL
Oh my gosh. What a whirl wind and roller coaster Lindsey takes you on! Even when you think you know how it will end thanks to the prologue, you don’t know anything! The highs and lows are written so well, with so much detail it’s like you are living it with Reagan! Feel the anger, the sadness, shame, grief, joy, happiness and peace. **Trigger warning** for this book, but Lindsey handles the sensitive topics beautifully. Thank you for this book!
Oh my gosh. What a whirl wind and roller coaster Lindsey takes you on! Even when you think you know how it will end thanks to the prologue, you don’t know anything! The highs and lows are written so well, with so much detail it’s like you are living it with Reagan! Feel the anger, the sadness, shame, grief, joy, happiness and peace. **Trigger warning** for this book, but Lindsey handles the sensitive topics beautifully. Thank you for this book!
July 4, 2022
The only reason I’m giving this 4 stars is because I wished for something different in the end but this book was beautifully written and so so good! I felt anger, sadness, disappointment, annoyance, happiness, etc through out this read. The characters, the setting, the trauma… all so good! Every extra spare second I got I was coming back to these pages.
June 21, 2022
Dear Ms. Cord, did you think it was necessary to come out swinging? HOLY SMOKES, WHAT A STORY.
I am sure as debut author, Cord had to toe the line of what's too much for readers and lucky for us, she saw the line and crossed it. "Things She Never Said" includes heavy topics including huge scandals, heartbreak, and the ugly side of motherhood. The twist and turns take readers on a wild ride, one you won't soon forget. There is a huge loss in the book that I'm still not over. If anything, it's the only flaw in the book and I've shared my strongly worded opinions with Lindsey (hi friend!).
Read this book. Experience the love, heartbreak, growth, and redemption within the pages of a fantastic debut novel.
I am sure as debut author, Cord had to toe the line of what's too much for readers and lucky for us, she saw the line and crossed it. "Things She Never Said" includes heavy topics including huge scandals, heartbreak, and the ugly side of motherhood. The twist and turns take readers on a wild ride, one you won't soon forget. There is a huge loss in the book that I'm still not over. If anything, it's the only flaw in the book and I've shared my strongly worded opinions with Lindsey (hi friend!).
Read this book. Experience the love, heartbreak, growth, and redemption within the pages of a fantastic debut novel.
June 21, 2022
First off, I would like to thank Lindsey for providing and ARC copy of this book in exchange for my honest review.
Honestly, go read this book. CoHo vibes but better. I had to take a couple days to process what I’d just read because WHEWWW that was a lot but in a good way.
This story is so raw and gripping, it’ll have you feeling all of Raegan’s emotions as if they are your own. I was hooked from the very beginning. I compare it to as close to real life as you’re going to get and that’s what I love about it. It’s not cliche and it’s not sugar coated. It deals with some serious issues and brings to light some uncomfortable topics.
As a woman, I felt seen and I can say I relate to Reagan in a lot of ways. If you are looking for a no b.s. kinda read, this one is for you. I love how the story goes back and forth between the past and present and the reader gets a glimpse into what helped shape the characters to be what they are in present time.
Lindsey writes as if she’s been at this for a while even though this is her debut novel. Pretty freakin’ impressive of you ask me.
I highly recommend and I cannot wait for more more MORE from Lindsey Cord. This is a great read for book clubs, FYI!
Thank you for writing such an amazing novel♥️
Honestly, go read this book. CoHo vibes but better. I had to take a couple days to process what I’d just read because WHEWWW that was a lot but in a good way.
This story is so raw and gripping, it’ll have you feeling all of Raegan’s emotions as if they are your own. I was hooked from the very beginning. I compare it to as close to real life as you’re going to get and that’s what I love about it. It’s not cliche and it’s not sugar coated. It deals with some serious issues and brings to light some uncomfortable topics.
As a woman, I felt seen and I can say I relate to Reagan in a lot of ways. If you are looking for a no b.s. kinda read, this one is for you. I love how the story goes back and forth between the past and present and the reader gets a glimpse into what helped shape the characters to be what they are in present time.
Lindsey writes as if she’s been at this for a while even though this is her debut novel. Pretty freakin’ impressive of you ask me.
I highly recommend and I cannot wait for more more MORE from Lindsey Cord. This is a great read for book clubs, FYI!
Thank you for writing such an amazing novel♥️
June 16, 2022
This book was an inspiration from so many hard stories I have heard from first time moms and their experiences. This book was written in the hope to open eyes and hearts to show that even though someone makes decisions that seem wrong doesn’t mean they are a bad person. Their decisions alone don’t mean they aren’t worthy of love or understanding.
We almost never know the full story. Sometimes what we see is not at all what is truth and sometimes people are just trying to survive a life that has handed them just a little too much.
So my hope is that while reading this you will see that even though you may not agree with all the decisions Reagan makes, you can still love her and you can root for her.
Because in the end we are all worthy of love and acceptance and most of all, forgiveness.
Thank you so much for taking the time to read this book! It means the world to me and I hope you like it!
**please be aware of trigger warnings before you read this. It may not be for you and that’s ok! 🥰
We almost never know the full story. Sometimes what we see is not at all what is truth and sometimes people are just trying to survive a life that has handed them just a little too much.
So my hope is that while reading this you will see that even though you may not agree with all the decisions Reagan makes, you can still love her and you can root for her.
Because in the end we are all worthy of love and acceptance and most of all, forgiveness.
Thank you so much for taking the time to read this book! It means the world to me and I hope you like it!
**please be aware of trigger warnings before you read this. It may not be for you and that’s ok! 🥰
June 7, 2022
wow this is one of the most gut wrenching, heart breaking stories I’ve ever read. yet at the same time it’s full of so much love and hope. I adored Reagan’s character and felt so much empathy and sadness for everything she endored. I also loved the dual timeline concept.
this one gives you all the Coho / tragic romance vibes. it reminds me SO much of Confess by Hoover. I am shook this is Lindsey’s debut novel. so looking forward to book 2!
well done 👏🏼 read this one in two sittings so that’s definitely saying something!
read this is you like
Coho - Reminders of Him, Confess
Christina Lauren - Love and Other Words
Marina Zapata - Archer’s Voice
Katherine Bitner - Time to Bloom
or any other tragic small town romance
FINGER GUNS! *that is all*
I was sent an ARC of this novel in exchange for an honest review
this one gives you all the Coho / tragic romance vibes. it reminds me SO much of Confess by Hoover. I am shook this is Lindsey’s debut novel. so looking forward to book 2!
well done 👏🏼 read this one in two sittings so that’s definitely saying something!
read this is you like
Coho - Reminders of Him, Confess
Christina Lauren - Love and Other Words
Marina Zapata - Archer’s Voice
Katherine Bitner - Time to Bloom
or any other tragic small town romance
FINGER GUNS! *that is all*
I was sent an ARC of this novel in exchange for an honest review
May 23, 2022
I received an ARC in exchange for an honest review and let me tell you, I have never read a book before that caused me to ugly cry at the end! If you want a book that you cannot turn the pages fast enough then Things She Never Said is the book for you! Unraveling the life of Reagan will leave you smiling, laughing, crying and saying Noooo. The emotional turmoil that she experiences hits close to home for so many. Hands down one of the hottest reads for this summer!! Its rare to find such a phenomenal debut book and I look forward to reading Lindsey Cord's next novel!
May 24, 2022
I had the pleasure of receiving an advanced reader copy and boy…I’m blown away! Reagan’s story tugged at my heartstrings from the first page. This book speaks to real life issues that we can all relate to in one way or another. Her story is one that will stay with me for some time! I can’t wait to see where Lindsey’s writing goes from here!
July 3, 2022
This book is so fantastic - I couldn't put it down!
Lindsey's writing makes you want to keep reading. The way she blends in past and present really brings the story together and the characters are very multidimensional.
I had a lot of emotions reading this book. I didn't always agree or understand Reagan - at times I was even yelling at her!
It touches on a lot of real life issues - post-partum feelings, baggage from your past, and evolving relationships.
It is not a traditional love story but I feel like this book really emphasizes how important self love is.
To sum it up - you'll laugh, you'll definitely cry, you will feel for Reagan, and you'll want to throttle her.
I received this as an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
Lindsey's writing makes you want to keep reading. The way she blends in past and present really brings the story together and the characters are very multidimensional.
I had a lot of emotions reading this book. I didn't always agree or understand Reagan - at times I was even yelling at her!
It touches on a lot of real life issues - post-partum feelings, baggage from your past, and evolving relationships.
It is not a traditional love story but I feel like this book really emphasizes how important self love is.
To sum it up - you'll laugh, you'll definitely cry, you will feel for Reagan, and you'll want to throttle her.
I received this as an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
October 18, 2022
3 Reasons Why I Loved TSNS:
a red-haired protagonist...I mean, of course
mental health awareness (a beautifully + authentically crafted story of a woman realizing how a childhood filled with abuse has effected every area of her life)
redemption + God's grace
I don't want to give anything away (I spoil enough for myself on purpose as it is...impatient, impulsive mind and easy access to Reddit) but for those who have also read it, let's all agree that A CERTAIN CHARACTER I SHALL NOT NAME IS THE ABSOLUTE WOOOOOOOOOORST (sung in the voice of Jean-Ralphio because yes).
I am now a complete fangirl of Lindsey Cord and will eagerly await the next installment of Reagan's story unless she's not planning to write it, and, if that is the case, I have therapy every Thursday AM and would be glad if she'd join me next week to discuss my newfound emotional turmoil.
Grab this book. It's cathartic + engrossing + ahhhhh in all the best ways!
a red-haired protagonist...I mean, of course
mental health awareness (a beautifully + authentically crafted story of a woman realizing how a childhood filled with abuse has effected every area of her life)
redemption + God's grace
I don't want to give anything away (I spoil enough for myself on purpose as it is...impatient, impulsive mind and easy access to Reddit) but for those who have also read it, let's all agree that A CERTAIN CHARACTER I SHALL NOT NAME IS THE ABSOLUTE WOOOOOOOOOORST (sung in the voice of Jean-Ralphio because yes).
I am now a complete fangirl of Lindsey Cord and will eagerly await the next installment of Reagan's story unless she's not planning to write it, and, if that is the case, I have therapy every Thursday AM and would be glad if she'd join me next week to discuss my newfound emotional turmoil.
Grab this book. It's cathartic + engrossing + ahhhhh in all the best ways!
June 25, 2022
Read this book. Just do it.
It gives you all the feels. Reagan’s story is heartbreaking and beautiful. 10/10 recommend!
It gives you all the feels. Reagan’s story is heartbreaking and beautiful. 10/10 recommend!
July 7, 2022
very good read
This book is absolutely wonderful! I’m not a reader but I was drawn in and hooked. Way to go Lindsey, I can’t wait for the next!
This book is absolutely wonderful! I’m not a reader but I was drawn in and hooked. Way to go Lindsey, I can’t wait for the next!
May 25, 2022
If I didn't have a family to take care of, I would have read this book in one day. It's one that you cannot put down. You won't ever believe this is Lindsey's debut novel. It's one of those that makes you say, "Who is this author?! Because I want to read everything she has ever written."
This book exposes some very real, raw topics that had me nodding my head and feeling like I wasn't so alone in my motherhood journey. I feel so passionately about the topics exposed in this book and I admire the way Lindsey exposed the real-life struggles that many experience in silence, afraid or ashamed to admit their realities.
It's written in a dual timeline format, but it flows seamlessly and is easy to read. The chapters feel like just the right length, but they leave you wanting to keep turning the pages to the next one. Lindsey has a beautiful writing style that really paints a picture of what she is trying to convey. This novel had me laughing, crying, elated, frustrated, hopeful, sad... all of the above. I feel so honored that I had the opportunity to read this prior to it's release, but now I'm over here impatiently waiting for Lindsey to write more books!!
This book exposes some very real, raw topics that had me nodding my head and feeling like I wasn't so alone in my motherhood journey. I feel so passionately about the topics exposed in this book and I admire the way Lindsey exposed the real-life struggles that many experience in silence, afraid or ashamed to admit their realities.
It's written in a dual timeline format, but it flows seamlessly and is easy to read. The chapters feel like just the right length, but they leave you wanting to keep turning the pages to the next one. Lindsey has a beautiful writing style that really paints a picture of what she is trying to convey. This novel had me laughing, crying, elated, frustrated, hopeful, sad... all of the above. I feel so honored that I had the opportunity to read this prior to it's release, but now I'm over here impatiently waiting for Lindsey to write more books!!
May 24, 2022
I had the absolute honor of reading an advanced reader copy of my friend, @lindseydcord’s debut novel and to say I am blown away is an understatement. IT IS SO GOOD!!
We follow Reagan, a new mom in the throws of postpartum depression and new wife to childhood sweetheart, Chase. With all of the new, Reagan looks back to process the old and what she realizes is how much she still lacks. The love, the acceptance, the joy—all of it.
When fate causes her to run into Well’s (literally), the man also known as “grocery story guy,” Reagan feels all of these things. Emphasis on the love. But timing is key and that just isn’t something she has on her side in this situation.
This story brought up all of the feels. One minute we are ooh-ing and aah-ing and the next we are ready to throw a can of formula at a certain someone’s head ourselves! Lindsey did a phenomenal job writing this story and bringing us into the folds of every emotion. This is a gritty novel with so much relatability.
I’m so glad to just be a fly on the wall on Lindsey’s author journey! This girl is fire🔥 and 🌶 and so is her book!
We follow Reagan, a new mom in the throws of postpartum depression and new wife to childhood sweetheart, Chase. With all of the new, Reagan looks back to process the old and what she realizes is how much she still lacks. The love, the acceptance, the joy—all of it.
When fate causes her to run into Well’s (literally), the man also known as “grocery story guy,” Reagan feels all of these things. Emphasis on the love. But timing is key and that just isn’t something she has on her side in this situation.
This story brought up all of the feels. One minute we are ooh-ing and aah-ing and the next we are ready to throw a can of formula at a certain someone’s head ourselves! Lindsey did a phenomenal job writing this story and bringing us into the folds of every emotion. This is a gritty novel with so much relatability.
I’m so glad to just be a fly on the wall on Lindsey’s author journey! This girl is fire🔥 and 🌶 and so is her book!
May 24, 2022
I didn't even need to read the description of this book to know I wanted to read it - the cover drew me in instantly. Raegan's story is so tragic and so beautiful, and the way Lindsey weaves together the beauty and pain is like music on paper.
I laughed, I cried, I threw my kindle in rage (only half kidding!) and ultimately I just can't wait to see what else this author puts out because I know it's going to be an emotion roller coaster and I am here for it!
I laughed, I cried, I threw my kindle in rage (only half kidding!) and ultimately I just can't wait to see what else this author puts out because I know it's going to be an emotion roller coaster and I am here for it!
May 24, 2022
I was able to read this book early! It was incredible! I can’t say enough about it without giving it all away. And trust me, you want to read this book for yourself!
I fell in love with Reagan and did NOT want this book to end.
If you love Colleen Hoover, you will love this book as well!
Lindsey, Thank you so much for this book! I can not wait to read what your brilliant mind comes up with next!
I fell in love with Reagan and did NOT want this book to end.
If you love Colleen Hoover, you will love this book as well!
Lindsey, Thank you so much for this book! I can not wait to read what your brilliant mind comes up with next!
May 25, 2022
This book, oh this book. Please check triggers on this. This book ripped my heart into shreds and pieced it back piece by piece. Such a devastatingly good book.
May 20, 2022
This book is amazing! I loved every minute if it. There were some hard topics touched but done so in such a beautiful way! There is a really good plot! So much happens from post partum depression to some violence to a beautiful love story to an even better friendship. Lindsey will shatter your heart and then piece it all back together with this book! *chefs kiss* She writes about post partum in such a real and understanding way. Raw emotions and struggles just makes you want to go and hug the main character Raegan.I couldn't get enough of it!!!
November 4, 2022
*Immediately purchases all other books by Lindsey**
August 14, 2023
I had to put this down and just stare off into space for a very VERY long time before starting this review.
I have so much to say but no clue how to say it all so I’ll just say this and hope it get my point across:
🫥 The whole time, there’s just this ominous feeling that the floor is about to drop out beneath the MC. When I tell you I had A N X I E T Y the WHOLE TIME. There is sooo much going on. The story flips back and forth between the past and present, there is this constant mix of wonderful friendships, some spicy moments, sweet love, and horrible, anxiety-inducing, heart-wrenching incidents.
⚠️ This is not a book for those who like fluffy romcoms and sweet HEAs. This is not a book that is going to have you constantly smiling with butterflies. No, this book is for the people whose favorite parts of a CoHo novel are the parts that made them cry. This is a REAL and RAW book and you’ll probably be anxious for most of it and your mouth will probably drop at the ending and you probably won’t be super happy when you’re done.
I’m rating this a 4.5 because, though it was mind blowing and kept me hooked the whole time, there were some things that felt a bit unrealistic or instant. But WOW. What a book. Colleen Hoover better watch out, Lindsey is coming for her crown.
CW
- infidelity
- Emotional abuse
- Physical abuse
- PPD
- Intrusive thoughts
- Formula feeding shame
- Abortion
If you’re on Instagram, follow me @rachels.top.reads for more bookish content
I have so much to say but no clue how to say it all so I’ll just say this and hope it get my point across:
🫥 The whole time, there’s just this ominous feeling that the floor is about to drop out beneath the MC. When I tell you I had A N X I E T Y the WHOLE TIME. There is sooo much going on. The story flips back and forth between the past and present, there is this constant mix of wonderful friendships, some spicy moments, sweet love, and horrible, anxiety-inducing, heart-wrenching incidents.
⚠️ This is not a book for those who like fluffy romcoms and sweet HEAs. This is not a book that is going to have you constantly smiling with butterflies. No, this book is for the people whose favorite parts of a CoHo novel are the parts that made them cry. This is a REAL and RAW book and you’ll probably be anxious for most of it and your mouth will probably drop at the ending and you probably won’t be super happy when you’re done.
I’m rating this a 4.5 because, though it was mind blowing and kept me hooked the whole time, there were some things that felt a bit unrealistic or instant. But WOW. What a book. Colleen Hoover better watch out, Lindsey is coming for her crown.
CW
- infidelity
- Emotional abuse
- Physical abuse
- PPD
- Intrusive thoughts
- Formula feeding shame
- Abortion
If you’re on Instagram, follow me @rachels.top.reads for more bookish content
July 16, 2022
WOW LINDSEY! I couldn’t put this book down. Amazing work!
July 13, 2022
Like all great movies and episodes of television, TSNS starts off with a shocking event, and then takes you back in time to walk you through how it got there - and let me tell you it was a wild ride.
I knew it would be, though, when I read the message from the author on the first page, urging you as the reader to take care of yourself because this book was going to traumatize you. Both in the ways we as readers and writers joke about - and also in very serious ways.
TSNS takes you through Reagan’s (MC) journey, and even though it’s written in 3rd person, you’re with her, holding her hand every step of the way. It feels like a first person story. You are always by her side, experiencing her heartbreaks and struggles and the memories that act as a foundational basis for understanding who she is and circumstances that made her.
Reagan’s story is the story of so many women, in many many ways. You relate to her and you empathize. Make no mistake - this journey hurts, and will make you laugh and cry and get angry. You cheer for her, and you laugh with her and you want so desperately to protect her from the demons in her mind and the ones in her life.
Lindsey Cord takes you through a real life walk about with TSNS. Like real life, the ending is happy but not before it’s heartbreaking. Also like real life, it’s funny, and awkward, sexy and charming, scary and sad. The writing is easy to read and hard to put down. Add Lindsey to your list of emerging and amazing writers. At the end of the day, this was just good story telling that is sure to captivate readers make them feel the full gamut of emotions. Kuddos, Lindsey - I’m so glad I found this book.
I knew it would be, though, when I read the message from the author on the first page, urging you as the reader to take care of yourself because this book was going to traumatize you. Both in the ways we as readers and writers joke about - and also in very serious ways.
TSNS takes you through Reagan’s (MC) journey, and even though it’s written in 3rd person, you’re with her, holding her hand every step of the way. It feels like a first person story. You are always by her side, experiencing her heartbreaks and struggles and the memories that act as a foundational basis for understanding who she is and circumstances that made her.
Reagan’s story is the story of so many women, in many many ways. You relate to her and you empathize. Make no mistake - this journey hurts, and will make you laugh and cry and get angry. You cheer for her, and you laugh with her and you want so desperately to protect her from the demons in her mind and the ones in her life.
Lindsey Cord takes you through a real life walk about with TSNS. Like real life, the ending is happy but not before it’s heartbreaking. Also like real life, it’s funny, and awkward, sexy and charming, scary and sad. The writing is easy to read and hard to put down. Add Lindsey to your list of emerging and amazing writers. At the end of the day, this was just good story telling that is sure to captivate readers make them feel the full gamut of emotions. Kuddos, Lindsey - I’m so glad I found this book.
February 7, 2023
2.5 stars. I honestly don’t get why this has so many 4-5 stars?? Nothing in this book was shocking and surprising. The writing, while easy to read, dragged quite a bit and I found myself glazing over some of the passages. It’s basically ‘it ends with us’ by Colleen Hoover all over again but with better writing. I’ve read too many stories about husbands being abusers for anything to shock me anymore.
I know this is a story about difficulties of being a new mother and feeling lost in who you are now, as well as coming to terms with realizing someone isn’t who you thought they were, but besides the first 100 pages the MC really doesn’t seem to care about her baby and she’s not really mentioned until the end. Also, considering her mom left and her dad hit her I honestly cannot believe she would leave her daughter with an abuser. Like she literally did what her mother did. And yet she claims she suddenly loves Caroline out of now where ????
The fact that it took her so long to realize her relationship with chase was just a shame based on her always doing what he wanted annoyed me. I mean all the red flags were there even in the beginning. Why tf did you marry him girl? Cause he’s ‘all you had’ ? Stand up. Lord. She irritated me to no end.
I know this is a story about difficulties of being a new mother and feeling lost in who you are now, as well as coming to terms with realizing someone isn’t who you thought they were, but besides the first 100 pages the MC really doesn’t seem to care about her baby and she’s not really mentioned until the end. Also, considering her mom left and her dad hit her I honestly cannot believe she would leave her daughter with an abuser. Like she literally did what her mother did. And yet she claims she suddenly loves Caroline out of now where ????
The fact that it took her so long to realize her relationship with chase was just a shame based on her always doing what he wanted annoyed me. I mean all the red flags were there even in the beginning. Why tf did you marry him girl? Cause he’s ‘all you had’ ? Stand up. Lord. She irritated me to no end.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
November 13, 2022
“The realization that this was all her fault hit her like a ton of bricks. Her guilt was overwhelming, and she couldn’t catch her breath. She was the one to blame for all of it, and there was no denying that without her, this would have never happened.”
Beautiful and heart-wrenching. ❤️
I’m still trying to gather all my thoughts, but in short, this book blew me away. It dealt with some really hard, really real topics. The raw emotion. The turmoil. The ache. Just ugh. I wish I could go into those pages, give Reagan a hug and tell her, “It’s not your fault. You are worthy. You are not alone.”
If you need a good cry, read this book. But, be sure to read the trigger warning at the very beginning. I think Lindsey says it perfectly: “It is my desire and responsibility to make it known that this story contains sexual content, adult language, violence, and other sensitive topics that may be triggering or inappropriate for some audiences. My hope is for you to protect yourself and remain happy and healthy first and foremost.”
Also, Lindsey is publishing an alternate ending to this book in February, and I. CANNOT. WAIT. Will it make up for the sobbing I did here? No. But that’s ok.
Beautiful and heart-wrenching. ❤️
I’m still trying to gather all my thoughts, but in short, this book blew me away. It dealt with some really hard, really real topics. The raw emotion. The turmoil. The ache. Just ugh. I wish I could go into those pages, give Reagan a hug and tell her, “It’s not your fault. You are worthy. You are not alone.”
If you need a good cry, read this book. But, be sure to read the trigger warning at the very beginning. I think Lindsey says it perfectly: “It is my desire and responsibility to make it known that this story contains sexual content, adult language, violence, and other sensitive topics that may be triggering or inappropriate for some audiences. My hope is for you to protect yourself and remain happy and healthy first and foremost.”
Also, Lindsey is publishing an alternate ending to this book in February, and I. CANNOT. WAIT. Will it make up for the sobbing I did here? No. But that’s ok.
September 16, 2022
Beautifully written, heartbreaking, scandalous, raw. What a fantastic debut novel from Lindsey Cord!
Reagan deals with issues many women struggle with but are too ashamed, embarrassed, or scared to admit. I think the fact that Cord openly talks about what Reagan is going through is amazing and empowering. It shows women that while marriage and motherhood may not be what they expected, they are not alone.
It was refreshing to see Reagan’s side of things. She isn’t a perfect person and I think that makes her a phenomenal protagonist for the story. She knows she has flaws. She makes mistakes. She’s awkward, goofy, strong, and endearing.
Chase is a jerk. That’s all I have to say about him.
Wells is my new fictional soulmate and yet another source of unattainable qualities my future husband will need to have. I’ll just go ahead and add him to my list of why I’ll be single forever. 😆
This book literally has it all. Comedy, tragedy, drama, romance, hard-hitting topics, and fantastic writing.
1000/5 stars.
Reagan deals with issues many women struggle with but are too ashamed, embarrassed, or scared to admit. I think the fact that Cord openly talks about what Reagan is going through is amazing and empowering. It shows women that while marriage and motherhood may not be what they expected, they are not alone.
It was refreshing to see Reagan’s side of things. She isn’t a perfect person and I think that makes her a phenomenal protagonist for the story. She knows she has flaws. She makes mistakes. She’s awkward, goofy, strong, and endearing.
Chase is a jerk. That’s all I have to say about him.
Wells is my new fictional soulmate and yet another source of unattainable qualities my future husband will need to have. I’ll just go ahead and add him to my list of why I’ll be single forever. 😆
This book literally has it all. Comedy, tragedy, drama, romance, hard-hitting topics, and fantastic writing.
1000/5 stars.
March 28, 2023
I wasn’t sure what to expect with this story as I went in blind and purchased it as an eager way of showing my support for a fellow indie author. What I found within these pages, however, blew me away. Not just because this is a debut novel that definitely doesn’t hit like one, but because of the grittiness of the story as a whole. If you’ve followed my reviews, you know I’m a sucker for grit. I want to feel EVERYTHING and boy did Cord deliver on that!
Her writing is so authentic and so tangible. To say this story felt REAL would be a huge understatement. I’m reminded again while I love indie so much. The unapologetic depth, the realness, the tackling of big topics and themes in a heartbreaking way that hugs and slaps you all at once.
While Lindsey has since temporarily pulled this novel, I suggest that, if she’s not already on your radar, to get her on there pronto! You won’t regret it!
Her writing is so authentic and so tangible. To say this story felt REAL would be a huge understatement. I’m reminded again while I love indie so much. The unapologetic depth, the realness, the tackling of big topics and themes in a heartbreaking way that hugs and slaps you all at once.
While Lindsey has since temporarily pulled this novel, I suggest that, if she’s not already on your radar, to get her on there pronto! You won’t regret it!
November 8, 2022
This book absolutely wrecked me. It was such an emotional read but so so good! I had to set it down and walk away several times as a mother who suffered postpartum the emotions were so fresh. I'm so glad Lindsey wrote this book as I think these are important topics and need to be written and talked about more. The trigger warnings at the beginning of the novel helped prepare me for what I was about to get into and I appreciate the clearness with that.
I want more of Reagan's story (which we will be getting early next year!!!) and I want to see her break the cycle. I've never rooted for a fictional character so much. I cannot wait to read more from Lindsey Cord, even if my heart breaks. The hard stories are the best.
I want more of Reagan's story (which we will be getting early next year!!!) and I want to see her break the cycle. I've never rooted for a fictional character so much. I cannot wait to read more from Lindsey Cord, even if my heart breaks. The hard stories are the best.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 37 reviews