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The Two Halves of My Heart
When I was seven years old, I met Maddison, the love of my life. And a minute later, I met Oliver who stole my heart and kept it. Forever.
Loving both of them, giving them each a piece of my heart, was easy at that age.
Maddison made me brave, and Oliver kept me safe.
But then we grew up, and loving both of them was wrong. How was I supposed to choose between my best friends? I couldn’t, and worse, I didn’t. And, that was the beginning of the end. It fractured us in ways we couldn’t imagine and pushed one of us to make a choice that would change the course of all of our lives.
But could we all live with the consequences?
Three friends.
Two brothers.
One romance. One love story.
Loving both of them, giving them each a piece of my heart, was easy at that age.
Maddison made me brave, and Oliver kept me safe.
But then we grew up, and loving both of them was wrong. How was I supposed to choose between my best friends? I couldn’t, and worse, I didn’t. And, that was the beginning of the end. It fractured us in ways we couldn’t imagine and pushed one of us to make a choice that would change the course of all of our lives.
But could we all live with the consequences?
Three friends.
Two brothers.
One romance. One love story.
374 pages, Kindle Edition
First published July 24, 2020
30 people are currently reading
135 people want to read
About the author
Rachel De Lune
37 books313 followersRachel De Lune writes emotionally driven contemporary romance.
She began scribbling her stories in the pages of a notebook several years ago, and still can’t resist putting pen to real paper. What ifs are turned into heartfelt stories of love where there will always be a HEA.
Rachel lives in the South West of England and if she’s not writing HEAs, she’s probably reading them. She is a wife and has a beautiful daughter.
Rachel also writes darker romance with her co-author and book-bestie under Hart De Lune.
For every woman who's ever desired more.
She began scribbling her stories in the pages of a notebook several years ago, and still can’t resist putting pen to real paper. What ifs are turned into heartfelt stories of love where there will always be a HEA.
Rachel lives in the South West of England and if she’s not writing HEAs, she’s probably reading them. She is a wife and has a beautiful daughter.
Rachel also writes darker romance with her co-author and book-bestie under Hart De Lune.
For every woman who's ever desired more.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 58 reviews
August 10, 2020
If you skip from when Mad and Grace are 10 to age 18, to the plot twist and then the last two chapters, you’ll find the bits in between are irrelevant. That’s how predictable and repetitive the story was.
I can only assume that De Lune followed a strict writing outline while failing to infuse any tangible emotions into the dynamic between Oliver, Madison and Grace.
Bottom line, it was all too clinical.
August 3, 2020
Totally went in blind here and I had no clue beforehand what this one was even about.
Imagine the size of my gulp when I realised it had one of my most avoided tropes at its centre a bloody love triangle and angst so much angst folks.
So I pulled up my big girl pants and dove straight in with this and got to say despite my pounding heart and healthy prior trepidation I found this to be such an intense experience.
Sure it was an emotional roller coaster with many twists and way out of my comfort zone but it pulled me right in, ripped me to shreds and then spat me right back out.
I definitely feel like I’d been put through a ringer with this one let me tell you.
This needs to be read blind with no prior expectations to get the full effect.
It’s not pretty, it’s extremely messy but it’s also raw and very real.
It will break your heart into tiny pieces before putting it all back together again.
It’s unpredictable and as angsty as you would expect when dealing with the fallout of 3 very real hearts.
This was quite the journey and a very unconventional romance and you will laugh, smile and cry right alongside Grace, Oliver and Maddison as they just try to just make sense of it all.
Not an easy read but definitely a worthwhile one, I’m actually feeling a tad fragile myself now.
I voluntarily reviewed a copy of The Two Halves Of My heart.
Reviewed By Beckie Bookworm
https://www.facebook.com/beckiebookworm/
www.beckiebookworm.com
October 27, 2020
I... don’t know what I’ve just read. 😂 But I do know that it kept me turning the pages to see where the heck this thing was going to go and how it was going to end. Let me tell you something... I had no idea it was going to end like THAT!
There’s no need for me to tell you about the plot line. The blurb says enough. What I wasn’t expecting in this awkward love triangle was for there to be so much... tenderness. The way it was handled kept me turning the pages rather than throwing my kindle across the room—although there were moments of that too when a lot of miscommunication was happening—and isn’t that what makes a read great?
If I can figure out the ending halfway through, I can still enjoy a book, but it doesn’t stay with me for a long time afterwards. I have a feeling that TTHOMH will stay with me for a while.
Maddison is the younger brother, built from fire and a refusal to quit. Oliver is the older, made from the sweetest of intentions and a soul no one can taint, not even the woman he’s loved for twenty years.
I, like Grace, loved them both for very different reasons. They were the perfect pair of siblings, making it hard for the reader to choose who they sided with, to be honest. I could totally relate to Grace’s dilemma.
There were certain parts I wish we’d seen “more” of, but I guess that just says how invested I actually was.
Weirdly, this is my first RDL book, but after this, I know it won’t be my last. Bravo!
There’s no need for me to tell you about the plot line. The blurb says enough. What I wasn’t expecting in this awkward love triangle was for there to be so much... tenderness. The way it was handled kept me turning the pages rather than throwing my kindle across the room—although there were moments of that too when a lot of miscommunication was happening—and isn’t that what makes a read great?
If I can figure out the ending halfway through, I can still enjoy a book, but it doesn’t stay with me for a long time afterwards. I have a feeling that TTHOMH will stay with me for a while.
Maddison is the younger brother, built from fire and a refusal to quit. Oliver is the older, made from the sweetest of intentions and a soul no one can taint, not even the woman he’s loved for twenty years.
I, like Grace, loved them both for very different reasons. They were the perfect pair of siblings, making it hard for the reader to choose who they sided with, to be honest. I could totally relate to Grace’s dilemma.
There were certain parts I wish we’d seen “more” of, but I guess that just says how invested I actually was.
Weirdly, this is my first RDL book, but after this, I know it won’t be my last. Bravo!
July 28, 2020
Oh my poor heart has been torn in half before being laced back together. Rachel de Lune has put me through the wringer, let alone her three wonderful but very different characters, Grace, Oliver and Maddison.
When quiet, shy seven year old Grace moves to the area with her mother, brothers Oliver and Maddison befriend her. They quickly become inseperable best friends and make a pact to always remain that way. However, the cracks start to show as they get older - growing feelings, hormones and their own personalities start to get in the way.
It was an amazing but emotional roller coaster watching the story unfold as they went from pre-teens to teenagers to adults. I loved this book.
I've smiled, cried, wanted to hug and shake Grace, Oliver and Maddison at times in equal measure and I have sworn and almost thrown my kindle down in frustration, anger and heartbreak.
There is so much I'd like to say about the decisions made (with best intentions..... or not), words spoken, words left unspoken and the consequences and reactions resulting, but that would ruin it for you the new reader and this book really should be read with as little information known as possible. All you need to know is that it's angsty and emotional and their love will tug on your heart strings (and will probably snap a few in the process as they did mine).
It's been a week since I turned the final page and I'm still thinking about them. That's a testament to this wonderfully written book and I'm sure the feelings will remain with me for quite some time yet.
When quiet, shy seven year old Grace moves to the area with her mother, brothers Oliver and Maddison befriend her. They quickly become inseperable best friends and make a pact to always remain that way. However, the cracks start to show as they get older - growing feelings, hormones and their own personalities start to get in the way.
It was an amazing but emotional roller coaster watching the story unfold as they went from pre-teens to teenagers to adults. I loved this book.
I've smiled, cried, wanted to hug and shake Grace, Oliver and Maddison at times in equal measure and I have sworn and almost thrown my kindle down in frustration, anger and heartbreak.
There is so much I'd like to say about the decisions made (with best intentions..... or not), words spoken, words left unspoken and the consequences and reactions resulting, but that would ruin it for you the new reader and this book really should be read with as little information known as possible. All you need to know is that it's angsty and emotional and their love will tug on your heart strings (and will probably snap a few in the process as they did mine).
It's been a week since I turned the final page and I'm still thinking about them. That's a testament to this wonderfully written book and I'm sure the feelings will remain with me for quite some time yet.
October 30, 2021
Ok so I haven't read Rachel De Lune before but after reading and devouring this story I can say I'll definitely be reading more... infact I've already downloaded another book to read next!
I don't read blurbs but when a book is recommended to you by friends you just know you need to read it so when I started this I have no clue what I was getting into but Holy moly wow what a read!
Maddison and Oliver are brothers and become friends with Grace when they are young.... throughout time emotions become involved and feelings are hurt when choices are made.
Absolutely jammed packed with angst this is one hell of a rollercoaster read.
I honestly don't want to give away any spoilers but all I can say is read this beautiful story as its SO worth it!!
*Read as part of KU*
I don't read blurbs but when a book is recommended to you by friends you just know you need to read it so when I started this I have no clue what I was getting into but Holy moly wow what a read!
Maddison and Oliver are brothers and become friends with Grace when they are young.... throughout time emotions become involved and feelings are hurt when choices are made.
Absolutely jammed packed with angst this is one hell of a rollercoaster read.
I honestly don't want to give away any spoilers but all I can say is read this beautiful story as its SO worth it!!
*Read as part of KU*
August 10, 2020
This wasn't for me at all.
This is my first book by this author so im not sure of her style but to me it felt a bit YA bit with a sex scene.
Tbh a Hero or heroine having a relationship with one sibling then the other is not my fav troupe.
Alot of the story is spent preadult life so it felt to me like childish swabbles over the heroine.
Then a decision is made but I felt it was a cliche ending.
Spoiler for ending.
One sibling dies so she end up with one who doesn't die.
She shares a kiss with both.
She is only intimate on page with one.
No intimate scenes with others.
No cheating.
Im not planning on reading anymore from this author.
This is my first book by this author so im not sure of her style but to me it felt a bit YA bit with a sex scene.
Tbh a Hero or heroine having a relationship with one sibling then the other is not my fav troupe.
Alot of the story is spent preadult life so it felt to me like childish swabbles over the heroine.
Then a decision is made but I felt it was a cliche ending.
Spoiler for ending.
One sibling dies so she end up with one who doesn't die.
She shares a kiss with both.
She is only intimate on page with one.
No intimate scenes with others.
No cheating.
Im not planning on reading anymore from this author.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 10, 2020
I'm speechless. I'm wrung out..
I haven't read for weeks and the first book I pick up makes me sob then I sobbed and sobbed again.
I'd been thinking about Remy from the book Real today because of a fb post, what a book that was, I loved Remy and I never expected to find another gem of a book like that. Another bbf fighter that would win my heart.
I wasn't expecting that or something like that in this book but I did and it was also so much more.
As much as the heart of the character was torn in two by her two childhood best friends, the two brothers and the love she had for both of them, a love that only grew stronger over the years, I'de felt my own being pulled one way then the other too.
I became completely captivated by this story and although my heart broke at one point, when I'd finally put my kindle down all I could think was... what a bloody good story that was.
Rachel De Lune: Bloody hell woman! I'm a mess 😢😭
*No cheating occurs in this book nor is it a menage. Its a childhood to adult love story with three best friends, a pact, and lots of heartfelt moments.
Enjoy the journey.
Arc gratefully received for review purposes
I'm speechless. I'm wrung out..
I haven't read for weeks and the first book I pick up makes me sob then I sobbed and sobbed again.
I'd been thinking about Remy from the book Real today because of a fb post and I never expected to find another gem of a book like that. Another bbf fighter that would win my heart.
I wasn't expecting that or something like that in this book but it was also so much more.
As much as the heart of the character was torn in two by her two childhood best friends, the two brothers and the love she had for both of them, a love that only grew stronger over the years, I'de felt my own being pulled one way then the other too.
I became completely captivated by this story and although my heart broke at one point when I'd finally put my kindle down all I could think was... what a bloody good story that was.
Now LIVE and #FREE in KU ➡️ https://mybook.to/TTHOMH
August 12, 2020
5 stars from me
Rachel, Rachel, Rachel, how can you do that to me and my heart? You broke it, you stripped it then built it back up.
I loved the relationship between the brothers and Grace. Together and individually. I loved seeing how their relationships developed through the years.
#TeamMaddison or #TeamOliver whose side will you choose. Will you even want to choose! Loving 2 people could be easy. But what if you don't want to choose? What if the choice is taken away from you? Relationships can fracture and the consequences could be life changing.
I really hope you choose to pick up this amazing story and give it a go. Wheather you are a big fan of Rachel De Lune or new to her writing. I am sure you would not be disappointed.
Rachel, Rachel, Rachel, how can you do that to me and my heart? You broke it, you stripped it then built it back up.
I loved the relationship between the brothers and Grace. Together and individually. I loved seeing how their relationships developed through the years.
#TeamMaddison or #TeamOliver whose side will you choose. Will you even want to choose! Loving 2 people could be easy. But what if you don't want to choose? What if the choice is taken away from you? Relationships can fracture and the consequences could be life changing.
I really hope you choose to pick up this amazing story and give it a go. Wheather you are a big fan of Rachel De Lune or new to her writing. I am sure you would not be disappointed.
July 20, 2020
One of the Best Angsty Romances Ever
Do not expect to do anything but read this book once you start on page one. You won’t want to stop until the end.
This story of two brothers and one girl spans their lifetime – from childhood to young adult. The author beautifully captures the insecurities of childhood, the angst of the teenage years, and the uncertainty of young adulthood. It will break your heart but then put it back together again in the most delicious, angsty, beautiful way.
Grace, an insecure young girl, moves to a small village in the country with her single mom. Her backstory is kept hidden from view – and for a very good reason. She is befriended by two young boys and within weeks they become inseparable. But as these types of relationships go, soon brotherly rivalry, budding puppy love, and the need to be *seen* starts to emerge. Both boys want Grace. Grace wants both boys – as friends, and later perhaps more.
“Maddison made me brave. Oliver kept me safe. And being with them made me feel invincible.”
Eventually, Grace has to make a choice, and your heart will break for her – and the two boys – when it finally comes.
“Need. It was a powerful word. And as soon as his lips spoke it, my gut churned and rolled. I wanted to be his need. That was my own need, right there. And so, despite every fibre of me believing this would be a bad idea, I wanted to go because [[name removed so no spoiler]] needed me.”
THIS right here made me stop in my tracks because isn’t that the truth? To be needed, to be wanted…isn’t that we all want?
At times I wanted to cry “no!” at my kindle but I always understood why they did what they did, felt as they did, and worried so. No one wants to be the bad guy or girl … everyone wants and needs love. The author shows just how much someone will go for that.
If you love deep emotion (and I mean DEEP), this stand-alone, contemporary romance is a must-read. I read it in one day, which is a testament to the author’s ability to invest a reader quickly and pull you along to get to that happy ending – and yes, there is one. The author will make you work for it, though. But then again, isn’t anything worth having, worth working for?
One click. Read. Cry. Read more. Hug your Kindle. Then go hug someone you love.
The Two Halves of my Heart
Do not expect to do anything but read this book once you start on page one. You won’t want to stop until the end.
This story of two brothers and one girl spans their lifetime – from childhood to young adult. The author beautifully captures the insecurities of childhood, the angst of the teenage years, and the uncertainty of young adulthood. It will break your heart but then put it back together again in the most delicious, angsty, beautiful way.
Grace, an insecure young girl, moves to a small village in the country with her single mom. Her backstory is kept hidden from view – and for a very good reason. She is befriended by two young boys and within weeks they become inseparable. But as these types of relationships go, soon brotherly rivalry, budding puppy love, and the need to be *seen* starts to emerge. Both boys want Grace. Grace wants both boys – as friends, and later perhaps more.
“Maddison made me brave. Oliver kept me safe. And being with them made me feel invincible.”
Eventually, Grace has to make a choice, and your heart will break for her – and the two boys – when it finally comes.
“Need. It was a powerful word. And as soon as his lips spoke it, my gut churned and rolled. I wanted to be his need. That was my own need, right there. And so, despite every fibre of me believing this would be a bad idea, I wanted to go because [[name removed so no spoiler]] needed me.”
THIS right here made me stop in my tracks because isn’t that the truth? To be needed, to be wanted…isn’t that we all want?
At times I wanted to cry “no!” at my kindle but I always understood why they did what they did, felt as they did, and worried so. No one wants to be the bad guy or girl … everyone wants and needs love. The author shows just how much someone will go for that.
If you love deep emotion (and I mean DEEP), this stand-alone, contemporary romance is a must-read. I read it in one day, which is a testament to the author’s ability to invest a reader quickly and pull you along to get to that happy ending – and yes, there is one. The author will make you work for it, though. But then again, isn’t anything worth having, worth working for?
One click. Read. Cry. Read more. Hug your Kindle. Then go hug someone you love.
The Two Halves of my Heart
July 22, 2020
My poor heart! I cannot tell you how much I adored The Two Halves of my Heart. My emotions are all over the place right now and I am having to fight back the tears as I think back over this incredible story to write this review.
One girl and two brothers; The best of friends and inseparable from the moment they meet. I wondered, as I started the story, how Grace could possibly love them both and at the same time, and then I met Maddison and Oliver and completely understood. These two brothers are so different in character and they each gave something to Grace that the other couldn’t. They both love her and Grace knew that choosing between them was something that she could never do. Once again I totally understood why, as it was hard for me to choose at times….. and I wasn’t going to be the one to break any hearts.
This story has been beautifully written. I connected with the characters immediately which is why I found this story to be so emotional. I had to step away and take a number of breathers - I couldn’t see the words through my tears anyway. There were moments when I wanted to jump into the book to try and change the decisions that were being made, but I couldn’t, and so I had to sit and watch the story unfold which at times was agonising.
I loved that we got to witness Grace, Maddison and Oliver grow up together. Seeing how they each approached and dealt with the different stages of their lives not only gave me a greater understanding of their feelings for each other, but this allowed me to learn about them as individuals too. This is one of the reasons why I feel Rachel De Lune has written this story perfectly.
Will you be #TeamMaddison or #TeamOliver? I believe whoever you decide to favour, you will hand over your heart to both of these boys at some point during the story. Maybe I should rephrase this and say that they will each own one of the two halves of your heart, just as they do Grace’s. I know that you will love this story just as much as I do, which I recommend without any hesitation to you to read.
One girl and two brothers; The best of friends and inseparable from the moment they meet. I wondered, as I started the story, how Grace could possibly love them both and at the same time, and then I met Maddison and Oliver and completely understood. These two brothers are so different in character and they each gave something to Grace that the other couldn’t. They both love her and Grace knew that choosing between them was something that she could never do. Once again I totally understood why, as it was hard for me to choose at times….. and I wasn’t going to be the one to break any hearts.
This story has been beautifully written. I connected with the characters immediately which is why I found this story to be so emotional. I had to step away and take a number of breathers - I couldn’t see the words through my tears anyway. There were moments when I wanted to jump into the book to try and change the decisions that were being made, but I couldn’t, and so I had to sit and watch the story unfold which at times was agonising.
I loved that we got to witness Grace, Maddison and Oliver grow up together. Seeing how they each approached and dealt with the different stages of their lives not only gave me a greater understanding of their feelings for each other, but this allowed me to learn about them as individuals too. This is one of the reasons why I feel Rachel De Lune has written this story perfectly.
Will you be #TeamMaddison or #TeamOliver? I believe whoever you decide to favour, you will hand over your heart to both of these boys at some point during the story. Maybe I should rephrase this and say that they will each own one of the two halves of your heart, just as they do Grace’s. I know that you will love this story just as much as I do, which I recommend without any hesitation to you to read.
August 16, 2020
I am not really sure where to start, apart from to say I'm wrecked. This story starts with friendship, honest, beautiful and pure. The friendship turns to love and all the heartache being in a love triangle can bring.
Is it possible to love two people at the same time, yes of course it is when two boys own half of your heart each. Grace struggles with her feelings between the two boys, and brings her uncertainty and sadness.
The "I'd read countless times that people were only destined to have one great love - their true love. Well, I believe I'd had two" ~ Grace
Oliver and Mads, are very different people but the one thing they have in common is their love and protectiveness over Grace.
Rachel captures the essence of a pure of heart love and friendship from childhood through to adulthood, and the pain and confusion it can bring.
I totally get it, I loved Mads passion, arrogance and vulnerability, but I also loved Oliver's sensitivity and sensibility and the way he wears his love on his sleeve. I totally fell in love with them too!
This story made my heart stop and start beating again. I feel like I have been rung out but came out smiling.
Please do not make us wait too long for Blush.
August 10, 2020
This story was hard on the heart and had your emotions being tossed back and forth. Oliver, Maddison and Grace were childhood friends since Grace was seven and these three have been through everything together. This is a story that will tear at your heart, it will break you in the best of ways but will ultimately heal your soul with an ending you could never have predicted. It is a journey that you will hang on tight for where tears will be shed, your heart will be in your throat, second guesses will be made but finally love will win the fight. This is not a boy meets girl kind of story or even a normal friends to lovers kind of romance, this is a story with complications, heartbreak and sacrifices. A story that at times will have you questioning decisions and motives but leaves you understanding more and more as the different points of view of each of the characters give you insight. The Two Halves of My Heart is beautifully written and pulls you in deep to a story that will leave a mark on your heart.
August 22, 2020
I have never been disappointed with one of Rachels books and this one was no exception.
We get to watch Maddison, Oliver, and Grace grow up from fancy free children to complicated adults and everything in between.
As they all grow up and go to school together they soon realize that they all want more than friendship. Oliver has always been content to hang back and see where things go and Maddison ever the one to push forward try to win the romantic affection of Grace.
Grace is not sure how she should proceed with these two brothers. She knows rj can't have both but also knows she can't choose just one.
Once they finish high school one of the brothers decides her fate for her that turns in to a ride she wasn't expecting.
---
Though there is a love triangle in this book it is not the usual trope. This book has humor and sadness and is all around a great read.
R4r
We get to watch Maddison, Oliver, and Grace grow up from fancy free children to complicated adults and everything in between.
As they all grow up and go to school together they soon realize that they all want more than friendship. Oliver has always been content to hang back and see where things go and Maddison ever the one to push forward try to win the romantic affection of Grace.
Grace is not sure how she should proceed with these two brothers. She knows rj can't have both but also knows she can't choose just one.
Once they finish high school one of the brothers decides her fate for her that turns in to a ride she wasn't expecting.
---
Though there is a love triangle in this book it is not the usual trope. This book has humor and sadness and is all around a great read.
R4r
August 15, 2020
Wow I was a bit unsure at first on how this story would go and if I would enjoy it as much as I actually did. This very angsty story broke my heart over and over again all the while pulling me deeper and deeper into the lives of Grace, Oliver and Maddison. How can you love two people with all your heart when each holds each part equally. I did laugh at parts and my heart felt so full at times and when it was sad I still had hope that thing would figure itself out. I don’t want to give away the ending as you have to read it and feel all the emotions that this book will give you for yourself. I do think anyone who loves a good angst Story then this one is for you!!!
August 3, 2020
Warning - do not read this book unless you have time to read - this is not one that you pick up and read a chapter at a time. This book you will devour whole and come out the other end with a heavy heart but with a smile on your face. Rachel De Lune traps the reader in the love triangle between brothers Maddison and Oliver with their best friend from childhood Grace. The emotions drip off of every single page and the reader is left not being able to pick the correct one for Grace. In the end the choice is taken away and the tears ran down my face but the heartwarming ending gave the book just enough to lift yourself up and continue reading. Highly emotional and highly entertaining. You will not be able to put the book down!!
July 25, 2020
Be prepared to feel from all three characters point of view. There will be no rescue net, no warnings, no get out of jail free card at the end of this love story. Maddison, Grace, and Oliver are three peas in a friendship pod, until the friendship evolves into the best and the worst love triangle imaginable.
Loving your best friends is easy when you’re a child, but when the heart develops attraction, and the butterflies flutter in your core for both in different ways, what’s a girl to do?
Choose?
Grace could never choose between the two brothers. They are her safety and her courage. She needs and loves them both. They made a promise.
Oliver and Maddison grow further apart as the competition for Grace’s attention mounts. Each brother is equally worthy of her attention, but oblivious to the awful situation as they grow up. It isn’t until Oliver graduates from Uni that he sees the truth of their triad.
Will the friendship survive when one makes the ultimate sacrifice or will there be nothing left to fight for?
I must add I was broken-hearted many times while reading this story, but I couldn’t stop! I loved each character with ever fiber of my being. Young love is gut wrenching!,
Loving your best friends is easy when you’re a child, but when the heart develops attraction, and the butterflies flutter in your core for both in different ways, what’s a girl to do?
Choose?
Grace could never choose between the two brothers. They are her safety and her courage. She needs and loves them both. They made a promise.
Oliver and Maddison grow further apart as the competition for Grace’s attention mounts. Each brother is equally worthy of her attention, but oblivious to the awful situation as they grow up. It isn’t until Oliver graduates from Uni that he sees the truth of their triad.
Will the friendship survive when one makes the ultimate sacrifice or will there be nothing left to fight for?
I must add I was broken-hearted many times while reading this story, but I couldn’t stop! I loved each character with ever fiber of my being. Young love is gut wrenching!,
October 29, 2020
Ever have a boy as a best friend? Grace was lucky enough to have two, who happened to be brothers. As they got older, Grace realized that she was in love with both of them and couldn’t decide on one. When the choice was taken from her, all three lives were set on a course no one expected.
Opinion
This book will make you wish for younger years as you read about Grace, Oliver and Maddison’s childhood. As they get older and grapple with emotions, you will want to cry for them. Ultimately, your heart will break for one of the brothers only to be revived at the very end with the other.
This book will take you down a roller coaster of life. You will laugh and cry with the experiences of the three MCs. You will not regret reading it though. This book is like no other book I’ve read.
Many thanks to Bare Naked Words for providing me with a copy of the ARC for my review. This book was truly a pleasure.
Opinion
This book will make you wish for younger years as you read about Grace, Oliver and Maddison’s childhood. As they get older and grapple with emotions, you will want to cry for them. Ultimately, your heart will break for one of the brothers only to be revived at the very end with the other.
This book will take you down a roller coaster of life. You will laugh and cry with the experiences of the three MCs. You will not regret reading it though. This book is like no other book I’ve read.
Many thanks to Bare Naked Words for providing me with a copy of the ARC for my review. This book was truly a pleasure.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 13, 2020
Wow this story is a roller coaster! I loved the fact we start this story of Grace, Oliver and Maddison in their childhood and work our way into their adulthood. It allows us to see them change and grow individually and together. You also get to see some of the critical things that happen in their life. I really liked this book, and would read it again in a heart beat . You can't help but love grace, and of course you love the guys but at times you will question whats wrong with each of them. But you can see how both Oliver and Maddison but really do complete Grace. They really are like 3 peas in a pod. The emotions and journey's they go on will put you on a crazy emotional roller coaster and you really won't want to put this book down.
July 26, 2020
What do you do when aged seven your mother moves you to a new house miles away and the first people you meet are Oliver and Maddison Ray. You fall in love with them. Both of them.
Grace Shaw watched these boys and finally managed to persuade her mum to let her play with them . The three become best friends and inseparable.
The boys weren't alike in looks or characteristics so each offered Grace something different.
"Maddison made me brave. Oliver kept me safe." Together they protected and looked after her, she is everything to both of them. "She had the unique ability to make me the strongest I'd ever felt yet bring me to my knees. And I could do nothing but love her."
The story follows the three friends through their childhood years when all they worry about is riding their bikes and climbing their favourite tree. We are quickly immersed into their lives and the author beautifully describe the innocence of growing up and sibling rivalry. All three of them live for the summer holidays when the only thing to spoil their time together is the rain. The memories they make during this time are so happy and carefree it took me back to my childhood and I was right there with them climbing that oak tree and going on adventures.
When teenage hormones hit new worries emerge and all three of them realise there is more to their friendship than normal.
Grace holds onto the deal they made to be friends forever as they enter adulthood and some hard decisions have to be made by all three.
If you think it has been an emotional read so far then you haven't seen anything yet. By now the author has you so invested in their lives that you won't be able to put the book down. You may not agree with how they handle their feelings towards each other as they grow older or the decisions they make but then this story wouldn't be as good as it is if everything ran smoothly. I don't think it matters who you support through it all because like Grace, both boys will find a place in your heart.
I loved how although it is mainly in Grace's POV , both the boys have their chapters and this makes the story more complete and allows the reader to see all three sides.
Although parts may be upsetting even heartbreaking ,overall it is a powerful , compelling and irresistible read that I totally recommend. Rachel de Lune has excelled herself with this one.
Grace sums up the feeling you will be left with after reading this book beautifully when she describes her lifelong relationship with the brothers "You both owned half of my heart, and I'd have never chosen between you. I loved you both too much!"
Grace Shaw watched these boys and finally managed to persuade her mum to let her play with them . The three become best friends and inseparable.
The boys weren't alike in looks or characteristics so each offered Grace something different.
"Maddison made me brave. Oliver kept me safe." Together they protected and looked after her, she is everything to both of them. "She had the unique ability to make me the strongest I'd ever felt yet bring me to my knees. And I could do nothing but love her."
The story follows the three friends through their childhood years when all they worry about is riding their bikes and climbing their favourite tree. We are quickly immersed into their lives and the author beautifully describe the innocence of growing up and sibling rivalry. All three of them live for the summer holidays when the only thing to spoil their time together is the rain. The memories they make during this time are so happy and carefree it took me back to my childhood and I was right there with them climbing that oak tree and going on adventures.
When teenage hormones hit new worries emerge and all three of them realise there is more to their friendship than normal.
Grace holds onto the deal they made to be friends forever as they enter adulthood and some hard decisions have to be made by all three.
If you think it has been an emotional read so far then you haven't seen anything yet. By now the author has you so invested in their lives that you won't be able to put the book down. You may not agree with how they handle their feelings towards each other as they grow older or the decisions they make but then this story wouldn't be as good as it is if everything ran smoothly. I don't think it matters who you support through it all because like Grace, both boys will find a place in your heart.
I loved how although it is mainly in Grace's POV , both the boys have their chapters and this makes the story more complete and allows the reader to see all three sides.
Although parts may be upsetting even heartbreaking ,overall it is a powerful , compelling and irresistible read that I totally recommend. Rachel de Lune has excelled herself with this one.
Grace sums up the feeling you will be left with after reading this book beautifully when she describes her lifelong relationship with the brothers "You both owned half of my heart, and I'd have never chosen between you. I loved you both too much!"
July 17, 2020
Rachel De Lune just keeps proving that she can write a multitude of genres to appeal to a multitude of people. Personally, I love all her books, and Two Halves of My Heart is one of my favourites.
Once again, she has captured my heart with this beautifully written story of the lifelong friendship between two boys and a girl. Never before has the author written a story quite like this and it is sure to tug at the heartstrings of most and draw tears from many. Her characters have weaknesses and flaws, yet show so much strength when it matters. No matter if you believe you are #TeamMaddison or #TeamOliver, you are sure to be delighted with the way the author brings the characters full circle.
Most of us are lucky to find one best friend in our lifetime, but Grace found two and the young age of seven. When childhood friends grow up, feelings can start to blur and confuse the heart, and when that happens, it is quite possible that you will end up with a heart that has two halves. One the loves and cherishes your childhood and another that wants to see it preserved in the future. One half that loves one boy and another half that loves another boy.
Author Rachel De Lune has positively written a story with depth and meaning that brought out so many emotions for me. It’s the type of story that will affect each reader in their own way. I drew upon my past and easily saw myself in the characters through portions of the book. Showing and feeling our emotions is therapeutic and I cherish the emotions that Two Halves of My Heart let me explore.
Once again, she has captured my heart with this beautifully written story of the lifelong friendship between two boys and a girl. Never before has the author written a story quite like this and it is sure to tug at the heartstrings of most and draw tears from many. Her characters have weaknesses and flaws, yet show so much strength when it matters. No matter if you believe you are #TeamMaddison or #TeamOliver, you are sure to be delighted with the way the author brings the characters full circle.
Most of us are lucky to find one best friend in our lifetime, but Grace found two and the young age of seven. When childhood friends grow up, feelings can start to blur and confuse the heart, and when that happens, it is quite possible that you will end up with a heart that has two halves. One the loves and cherishes your childhood and another that wants to see it preserved in the future. One half that loves one boy and another half that loves another boy.
Author Rachel De Lune has positively written a story with depth and meaning that brought out so many emotions for me. It’s the type of story that will affect each reader in their own way. I drew upon my past and easily saw myself in the characters through portions of the book. Showing and feeling our emotions is therapeutic and I cherish the emotions that Two Halves of My Heart let me explore.
August 12, 2020
The Two Halves of My Heart
By Rachel De Lune
5 stars
Sometimes you read a book and when you come to write the review you just end up sitting there and thinking – ok just how do I sum up how I feel about what I’ve just read and this is exactly what is happening to me know. I adore this author; her beautiful writing is such a pleasure to read but this story for me was something else. I don’t usually read love triangle stories but this one sounded different I needed to find out just what made Oliver and Maddison so special and special they were both in their own unique way. I absolutely adored all of the characters, watching them all grow up from a young age and seeing the connection between them. I have to say I am team Oliver!! There is angst and it’s plentiful but it doesn’t overwhelm what is a beautiful love story. I think I can truly say that The Two Halves of my Heart were completely broken and pieced back together!
I absolutely recommend this book – it’s beautiful, emotional and I loved every single second of it!
By Rachel De Lune
5 stars
Sometimes you read a book and when you come to write the review you just end up sitting there and thinking – ok just how do I sum up how I feel about what I’ve just read and this is exactly what is happening to me know. I adore this author; her beautiful writing is such a pleasure to read but this story for me was something else. I don’t usually read love triangle stories but this one sounded different I needed to find out just what made Oliver and Maddison so special and special they were both in their own unique way. I absolutely adored all of the characters, watching them all grow up from a young age and seeing the connection between them. I have to say I am team Oliver!! There is angst and it’s plentiful but it doesn’t overwhelm what is a beautiful love story. I think I can truly say that The Two Halves of my Heart were completely broken and pieced back together!
I absolutely recommend this book – it’s beautiful, emotional and I loved every single second of it!
August 12, 2020
“Oliver was my solace and who I turned to more than Mads. But Mads and I had a connection that lit me up inside.”
When Grace was seven years old, her mother moved her to a new home where she did not know anyone. One day, she met two brothers Oliver and Maddison. From the beginning they were inseparable and became best friends. Like many childhood friendships, the bonds start to strain as they get older and people/situations change. Here the author beautifully illustrates a classic triangle as both brothers develop feelings for Grace and she favors the two of them as well. As Grace struggles to maintain the relationship of the past with the present, ultimately, she will have to choose between the brothers. However, when that choice is taken from her how will that affect them all? This is one storyline that runs the gamut of emotions and feels like a roller coaster ride as the three characters deal with their feelings. This is one story that will capture your heart and not let it go. I volunteered to read this book.
When Grace was seven years old, her mother moved her to a new home where she did not know anyone. One day, she met two brothers Oliver and Maddison. From the beginning they were inseparable and became best friends. Like many childhood friendships, the bonds start to strain as they get older and people/situations change. Here the author beautifully illustrates a classic triangle as both brothers develop feelings for Grace and she favors the two of them as well. As Grace struggles to maintain the relationship of the past with the present, ultimately, she will have to choose between the brothers. However, when that choice is taken from her how will that affect them all? This is one storyline that runs the gamut of emotions and feels like a roller coaster ride as the three characters deal with their feelings. This is one story that will capture your heart and not let it go. I volunteered to read this book.
August 10, 2020
Must read!! This book pulled me in and just took over! I couldn’t stop and when I had to I couldn’t get my mind off of the characters. This book was what I needed in my life.
This book is a beautiful coming of age story. It’s written from multiple points of view and pulls you in immediately. There is something to be said about a friends to lovers story that starts at the beginning. This is a story of two young boys who befriend a young girl. They become the best of friend even though the boys are usually at odds with each other. This is an epic love story that takes you from childhood friends to adults. The boys grow to men having different feeling for the girl, causing friction with the friendship. What happens when you both love the same someone? What happens when she loves you both and can’t imagine her life without the two of you. You’re the two halves to her heart. This book will take you to the edge and bring you back. Beautifully written. I couldn’t put this book down I needed to know how it would all play out. Great love story.
This book is a beautiful coming of age story. It’s written from multiple points of view and pulls you in immediately. There is something to be said about a friends to lovers story that starts at the beginning. This is a story of two young boys who befriend a young girl. They become the best of friend even though the boys are usually at odds with each other. This is an epic love story that takes you from childhood friends to adults. The boys grow to men having different feeling for the girl, causing friction with the friendship. What happens when you both love the same someone? What happens when she loves you both and can’t imagine her life without the two of you. You’re the two halves to her heart. This book will take you to the edge and bring you back. Beautifully written. I couldn’t put this book down I needed to know how it would all play out. Great love story.
July 24, 2020
This was such an emotional book. I'll be honest, I couldn't put it down but I felt absolutely emotionally exhausted when it was finished.
Two brothers, Oliver and Maddison befriend the new girl in town, Grace, who lives with her mother. The three become inseparable, spending all the time they can, together. Oliver is two years older than Grace and Maddison and is therefore in a different year at school.
The brothers have a strange relationship, with what seems to be real competition between them, but they both love Grace as young children. And she in turn, feels the same for them.
As they grow up and hormones step in to muddy the waters, things change, and competition becomes something more.
Grace is torn between the brothers. Loving the two is tearing her apart...this is their story.
Wonderfully written angsty tale.
Two brothers, Oliver and Maddison befriend the new girl in town, Grace, who lives with her mother. The three become inseparable, spending all the time they can, together. Oliver is two years older than Grace and Maddison and is therefore in a different year at school.
The brothers have a strange relationship, with what seems to be real competition between them, but they both love Grace as young children. And she in turn, feels the same for them.
As they grow up and hormones step in to muddy the waters, things change, and competition becomes something more.
Grace is torn between the brothers. Loving the two is tearing her apart...this is their story.
Wonderfully written angsty tale.
August 6, 2020
We start when Grace Shaw is 7 years old. That’s when she met Oliver & Maddison Ray. Maddison was the same age as Grace and Oliver was Maddison’s older brother.
Grace becomes more and more confused as she gets older. She loves both boys Oliver and Maddison Ray and Grace ends up coming between the boys. Grace tries so hard to remain neutral toward the boys. But that isn’t what her heart allowed her to do.
OMG my heart hurts. Their journey together wasn’t an easy one. Reading The Two Halves of my Heart is an emotional book. I cried over their love and their heartbreak.
Now I need to go and find a rom com to read! I loved The Two Halves of my Heart! But get ready for an emotional roller coaster! There is a HEA for those that might be worried. 4.5 stars
Grace becomes more and more confused as she gets older. She loves both boys Oliver and Maddison Ray and Grace ends up coming between the boys. Grace tries so hard to remain neutral toward the boys. But that isn’t what her heart allowed her to do.
OMG my heart hurts. Their journey together wasn’t an easy one. Reading The Two Halves of my Heart is an emotional book. I cried over their love and their heartbreak.
Now I need to go and find a rom com to read! I loved The Two Halves of my Heart! But get ready for an emotional roller coaster! There is a HEA for those that might be worried. 4.5 stars
August 10, 2020
Emotional Rollercoaster!!!! I cried!!!!
Oliver, Maddison, and Grace has been inseparable since Grace was seven years old. They have been though the best friend stage, the secret crush stage, and the jealous brother stage all while trying to grow up and find their own identities separate as well as together. Grace’s backstory is mostly kept a secret throughout the book but when it does come to light it’s almost like the same issue / problem just different generation. This book was so beautifully written and had me so invested in the characters that it really did draw up emotions inside me that had me crying. If I could go back and change some things I would but it was take away from a beautiful story. The only thing I can say about this book is bravo!!!
Oliver, Maddison, and Grace has been inseparable since Grace was seven years old. They have been though the best friend stage, the secret crush stage, and the jealous brother stage all while trying to grow up and find their own identities separate as well as together. Grace’s backstory is mostly kept a secret throughout the book but when it does come to light it’s almost like the same issue / problem just different generation. This book was so beautifully written and had me so invested in the characters that it really did draw up emotions inside me that had me crying. If I could go back and change some things I would but it was take away from a beautiful story. The only thing I can say about this book is bravo!!!
August 13, 2020
Grace moves to a small town feels very lonely until she sees two boys playing in the field across the street. When she finally talks her mother into letting her go over there, she meets the two boys who will be her life. Maddison is her age and does everything to protect Grace. Oliver is his older brother and as brothers do they fight all the time, but Oliver will do everything to make Grace happy and keep her in their lives. But as they all grow things change. There hearts all grow towards each other and Grace can't make a decision between her two friends. This friends to having to decide which heart can make you better book is a great story with many ups and downs, but can't put it down until you find out their whole story.
July 20, 2020
Wow, This story really grabbed my heart strings. It was like growing up all over again. This trio of best friends have a magical relationship. All children should have such a such wonderful memories.
Growing up and keeping their relationship strong is a challenge. Without telling spoilers, it is at this point in the story that the tears started. I do not remember crying through a story to this extent.
This is a wonderful story that will keep you on the edge of your seat with the tissue box close at hand.
Growing up and keeping their relationship strong is a challenge. Without telling spoilers, it is at this point in the story that the tears started. I do not remember crying through a story to this extent.
This is a wonderful story that will keep you on the edge of your seat with the tissue box close at hand.
August 10, 2020
*An ARC was provided in exchange of an honest review*
To say I devoured this read is an understatement. It’s one of those reads that made hours seem as if they were mere seconds. I didn’t really pause during this read let alone look up, if at all necessary. This story will have you bound to its words and will grab a vise-like hold of your heart. I mean...I had to process before I could review it. I couldn’t really put much to words upon finishing it. So if you are looking for a read that has the feels in the best, angst-filled way... well, look no further
To say I devoured this read is an understatement. It’s one of those reads that made hours seem as if they were mere seconds. I didn’t really pause during this read let alone look up, if at all necessary. This story will have you bound to its words and will grab a vise-like hold of your heart. I mean...I had to process before I could review it. I couldn’t really put much to words upon finishing it. So if you are looking for a read that has the feels in the best, angst-filled way... well, look no further
August 10, 2020
Grace had her heart split in two over her love for Oliver and Maddison. This book was so beautiful in its entirety. I loved this trio, despite their imperfections and their trials. Fate steps in time and again, keeping me on my toes. The multiple POVs gave me an inside look at each of their minds, and I felt my heart trip over and over with each twist and turn of their story. I loved this so hard!
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