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You Weren't Mine Then
Once they had it all. Now they want it back.
Finn Brennen, swim team star, and Anne Drecher, the wallflower who tutored him, sparked an unlikely friendship that turned into a love so breathtakingly deep that they couldn’t imagine life without the other.
But their happiness was short-lived. Torn apart by horrible timing and a twist of fate, for over a decade they are forced to hide their mutual past.
Devastated by a love neither could forget, Anne built a life away from it all while Finn strove to give his son a stable home. But every family gathering brought them into the same room and served as a torturous reminder of what-ifs and could-have-beens.
Now Finn is divorced and ready to fight for what his heart wants and needs. Anne tries to resist but yearns for the love she thought she’d lost forever.
Family is forever, but what if love is, too? Is a second chance even possible when their love could tear a tightly-knit family apart?
‘You Weren’t Mine Then’ is a steamy slow-burn small-town romance with NO cheating. It can be read as a standalone and is the third in the Riviera View series, a collection of interconnected novels.
Finn Brennen, swim team star, and Anne Drecher, the wallflower who tutored him, sparked an unlikely friendship that turned into a love so breathtakingly deep that they couldn’t imagine life without the other.
But their happiness was short-lived. Torn apart by horrible timing and a twist of fate, for over a decade they are forced to hide their mutual past.
Devastated by a love neither could forget, Anne built a life away from it all while Finn strove to give his son a stable home. But every family gathering brought them into the same room and served as a torturous reminder of what-ifs and could-have-beens.
Now Finn is divorced and ready to fight for what his heart wants and needs. Anne tries to resist but yearns for the love she thought she’d lost forever.
Family is forever, but what if love is, too? Is a second chance even possible when their love could tear a tightly-knit family apart?
‘You Weren’t Mine Then’ is a steamy slow-burn small-town romance with NO cheating. It can be read as a standalone and is the third in the Riviera View series, a collection of interconnected novels.
292 pages, Kindle Edition
Published August 8, 2022
68 people are currently reading
238 people want to read
About the author
Lily Baines
12 books162 followersLily Baines is a mother, wife, and author, and the order to this changes depending on the day. For 20 years she has worked in Human Resources, mostly in the high-tech industry, but kept writing to maintain her sanity and flow of creative juices. Lily is dedicating her time to her 3 children, husband, family dog, bottomless laundry basket, full kitchen sink, and her writing.
Lets connect :)
amazon.com/author/lilybaines
https://www.lilybaines.com/
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Bonus chapters await here: https://www.lilybaines.com/
Lets connect :)
amazon.com/author/lilybaines
https://www.lilybaines.com/
https://www.facebook.com/lilybainesau...
Bonus chapters await here: https://www.lilybaines.com/
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 53 reviews
August 12, 2022
He gets her cousin pregnant (random hook up) when he meets heroine and discovers he’s in love with the heroine. He ends up marrying her cousin and a week later the cousin has a miscarriage. He decides to stay with her cousin (even thought he loves the heroine) and they keep trying for kids until they have max 🙄. Meanwhile heroine is living on the other side of the country. She doesn’t really move on. One mention of a boyfriend…with heroine spending literally years avoiding coming home when she can so she doesn’t have to see hero and her cousin. This story has flashbacks and pov from both MC over 14 years which was pretty annoying. I struggled to like this book because the heroine did nothing to try and move on (he did) just spent years wasting life (what kind of heroine is this?) There’s mention of one boyfriend Tom however it’s clear there’s nothing there.
There’s no cheating, I didn’t like this book bc while hero was trying to do right by his kid (I get it) heroine came across as just existing / avoiding family stuff bc of him for 14 years. Nope, would not read another book as what I understand as “building a life” is totally different from this book. She didn’t build a life…nothing great happens to her. No great friendships, lovers, gynormous career moves, achievements she was working towards, kids etc…just nothing…she’s just gone for years 👵
There’s no cheating, I didn’t like this book bc while hero was trying to do right by his kid (I get it) heroine came across as just existing / avoiding family stuff bc of him for 14 years. Nope, would not read another book as what I understand as “building a life” is totally different from this book. She didn’t build a life…nothing great happens to her. No great friendships, lovers, gynormous career moves, achievements she was working towards, kids etc…just nothing…she’s just gone for years 👵
June 30, 2023
I adore all the feels this small town stories raise, the slow burn and the second chance at love are perfectly delivered.
Anne and Finn met each other at the high school, she was a junior who tutored the senior swimmer, they became fast friends and years later they shared the best week of their lives, until a surprising and unpleasent news broke their dream of a future together. Years later they meet again in Riviera View, their feelings are still alive but there still are some hardles on their path. Will they risk everything in order to get the chance to freely love each other?
Ann and Finn are two good characters, they are really strong and they have a high ethics, they tried to stay away from each other, they tried to forget about each other but true love is undying.
Their story is sad and frustrating, it looks like a Shakespeare's tragedy at times, but I was glad to see they don't shy away from their problems once they finally find their way into each other lives again.
Lily Baines made an excellent work weaving together the past and the present of these characters don't letting the flash backs ruin the flow.
I recommend to read this novel and the previous books too, I enjoy Riviera View so much I'd like to live there with these characters.
August 2, 2022
Stars: ⭐ 4.5 ⭐
I will just say... My heart...💔
This story is so realistic, beautiful and heartbreaking.
I need to say... While I was reading this book I was listening to music, of course, and when "Still Falling For You" by Ellie Goulding came on... Oh my God... My emotions at that moment... You can only imagine. I was a mess. This song is so, so theirs.
Main characters:
- Anne:❣️❣️❣️❣️
- Finn: ❣️❣️❣️❣️
POV: The story is told from Anne and Finn's POV, in the third person
Writing: ✍️✍️✍️✍️
Mrs. Lily, I really love your writing. In every book of yours I can feel their feelings and their pain... You almost always pull me in and I can feel like I am there... The first half is totally my cop of tea. I wish that the second half of the book was a little bit longer and with more drama... What can I say... I love agony and drama till the end 😂 And I would like to see more of Luke, Libby, Hope and Jordan and their friendships in the future books. I missed that here.
Romance: Slow-burn, contemporary, second chance and small town romance, with friends-to-lovers and single dad tropes
Chemistry: 🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥
OW/OM drama: Yes
Love triangle: No
Cheating: No
Triggers: No
Funny moments: Yes
Sad moments: Yes... God...All those years... 💔
Favorite characters: Anne
The ending: Happy ending
* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *
"Beautiful mind.
Your heart got a story with mine.
Your heart got me hurting at times.
Your heart gave me new kind of highs.
Your heart got me feeling so fine.
So what to do?
Still falling for you!
Still falling for you!
It took us a while.
With every breath a new day.
With love on the line.
We've had our share of mistakes.
But all your flaws and scars are mine.
Still falling for you!
Still falling for you!
And just like that...
All I breathe.
All I feel.
You are all for me.
I'm in!
And just like that...
All I breathe.
All I feel.
You are all for me!
No one can lift me, catch me the way that you do.
I'm still falling for you!"
"Still Falling For You" by Ellie Goulding
* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *
I recived an ARC in exchange for an honest review .
I will just say... My heart...💔
This story is so realistic, beautiful and heartbreaking.
I need to say... While I was reading this book I was listening to music, of course, and when "Still Falling For You" by Ellie Goulding came on... Oh my God... My emotions at that moment... You can only imagine. I was a mess. This song is so, so theirs.
Main characters:
- Anne:❣️❣️❣️❣️
- Finn: ❣️❣️❣️❣️
POV: The story is told from Anne and Finn's POV, in the third person
Writing: ✍️✍️✍️✍️
Mrs. Lily, I really love your writing. In every book of yours I can feel their feelings and their pain... You almost always pull me in and I can feel like I am there... The first half is totally my cop of tea. I wish that the second half of the book was a little bit longer and with more drama... What can I say... I love agony and drama till the end 😂 And I would like to see more of Luke, Libby, Hope and Jordan and their friendships in the future books. I missed that here.
Romance: Slow-burn, contemporary, second chance and small town romance, with friends-to-lovers and single dad tropes
Chemistry: 🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥
OW/OM drama: Yes
Love triangle: No
Cheating: No
Triggers: No
Funny moments: Yes
Sad moments: Yes... God...All those years... 💔
Favorite characters: Anne
The ending: Happy ending
* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *
"Beautiful mind.
Your heart got a story with mine.
Your heart got me hurting at times.
Your heart gave me new kind of highs.
Your heart got me feeling so fine.
So what to do?
Still falling for you!
Still falling for you!
It took us a while.
With every breath a new day.
With love on the line.
We've had our share of mistakes.
But all your flaws and scars are mine.
Still falling for you!
Still falling for you!
And just like that...
All I breathe.
All I feel.
You are all for me.
I'm in!
And just like that...
All I breathe.
All I feel.
You are all for me!
No one can lift me, catch me the way that you do.
I'm still falling for you!"
"Still Falling For You" by Ellie Goulding
* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *
I recived an ARC in exchange for an honest review .
August 5, 2022
Lily Baines wrote a beautiful and heartbreaking second chance love story. From the very first page my heart stuttered and I had tears behind my eyes. It’s everything you wanted in front of you, if. If only you could take it, if only. I mean he was her’s first.
“Can we talk sometime, Jane?”
Years have gone by and yet no matter the distance they can still feel one another, they settled for some things, and chased dreams, but they both have felt so incomplete without one another.
Anne was anything but, you know what I mean? She was anything but a wallflower. She was anything but quiet. Finn saw that. He knew that, what others took for granted he cherished. Her sarcasm, the way she kissed and took what she wanted.
Finn was a dreamboat. The guy you could melt for, fall into, and you know what made him so special? He would catch you, he would defend you.
The flashbacks of them in and out of school, her art, him swimming competitively, their talks, their kiss, made me feel as if I knew them, and gave me so much hope. It was obvious that the Finn and Anne back then deserve their lifetime right now. No more distance, no more interruptions or guilt.
The flashbacks made the present bittersweet. Finn is a single dad, back in town and makes his presence known. Anne is helping her parents in the bakery with design, and has her art business too.
It made my chest hurt and made me smile. All these feelings and when they take what they wanted, what they wanted for so long, it’s sweet sensual relief!
“I don’t want to hear anything except what and how you want it, and my name on your lips.”
It was hard for me to accept, what had to be done was done, but damn Anne understood, it was all for his son. And finally it’s about time for their happiness.
Aesthetically beautiful! Every time Finn calls her Jane, I fell harder!
Arc review
“Can we talk sometime, Jane?”
Years have gone by and yet no matter the distance they can still feel one another, they settled for some things, and chased dreams, but they both have felt so incomplete without one another.
Anne was anything but, you know what I mean? She was anything but a wallflower. She was anything but quiet. Finn saw that. He knew that, what others took for granted he cherished. Her sarcasm, the way she kissed and took what she wanted.
Finn was a dreamboat. The guy you could melt for, fall into, and you know what made him so special? He would catch you, he would defend you.
The flashbacks of them in and out of school, her art, him swimming competitively, their talks, their kiss, made me feel as if I knew them, and gave me so much hope. It was obvious that the Finn and Anne back then deserve their lifetime right now. No more distance, no more interruptions or guilt.
The flashbacks made the present bittersweet. Finn is a single dad, back in town and makes his presence known. Anne is helping her parents in the bakery with design, and has her art business too.
It made my chest hurt and made me smile. All these feelings and when they take what they wanted, what they wanted for so long, it’s sweet sensual relief!
“I don’t want to hear anything except what and how you want it, and my name on your lips.”
It was hard for me to accept, what had to be done was done, but damn Anne understood, it was all for his son. And finally it’s about time for their happiness.
Aesthetically beautiful! Every time Finn calls her Jane, I fell harder!
Arc review
avoid
August 27, 2022Paula has spoilers. Avoid.
August 7, 2022
I absolutely loved this book. As soon as I started reading it I was hook. When I did come up for air, I found that I had already read 40% of the book in one sitting. I finished this book later the same afternoon. Lily infuses such life into her characters that they become more than just people within a story. They turn into friends and family.
I could feel the heartache and love between Finn and Jane/Anne as soon as they interacted with each other. From here the romantic connection between Finn and Jane is a slow burning one. Yet, filled with many emotions. The "flashback" memories that Finn had of him, and Jane were steamy ones. Yet, they were nothing like the "real" physical connection these two shared. Readers of Lily will really enjoy this newest book in this series. New readers will want to go back and check out the other two books.
I could feel the heartache and love between Finn and Jane/Anne as soon as they interacted with each other. From here the romantic connection between Finn and Jane is a slow burning one. Yet, filled with many emotions. The "flashback" memories that Finn had of him, and Jane were steamy ones. Yet, they were nothing like the "real" physical connection these two shared. Readers of Lily will really enjoy this newest book in this series. New readers will want to go back and check out the other two books.
October 30, 2022
As a reader, I love nothing more than taking a chance on a new-to-me author and discovering a new favorite. I'm excited to say that I've done that with Lily Baines and You Weren't Mine Then.
This. Book.
Oh, my heart.
Jane and Finn became friends in high school, but their timing was off to ever be anything more. When they finally reconnected, the past and fate rushed in to keep them from having any future together. Now, 14 years later, Finn is a divorced single dad. Still, their love is forbidden. They can't be together because it will tear Jane's family apart, but they can't seem to stay away from each other either.
At first, I was afraid that I would struggle with this book because it's written in a style that I'm not as used to and comfortable with. My worries quickly evaporated though as I became fully engrossed in this story. The forbidden love, the cruelty of fate. The angst is high with the one. I did not want to put this book down, and when I did, my mind just kept going back to it. My heart shattered for Jane and Finn. I found myself getting so angry at their circumstances and worried that a HEA could not be in the cards for them.
This love story and the small town, family dynamic portrayed here is realistic and relatable. This book draws you in and doesn't let go until the very end. I will definitely be adding the other books in this series to my TBR and I can't wait to read more of this author's work.
This. Book.
Oh, my heart.
Jane and Finn became friends in high school, but their timing was off to ever be anything more. When they finally reconnected, the past and fate rushed in to keep them from having any future together. Now, 14 years later, Finn is a divorced single dad. Still, their love is forbidden. They can't be together because it will tear Jane's family apart, but they can't seem to stay away from each other either.
At first, I was afraid that I would struggle with this book because it's written in a style that I'm not as used to and comfortable with. My worries quickly evaporated though as I became fully engrossed in this story. The forbidden love, the cruelty of fate. The angst is high with the one. I did not want to put this book down, and when I did, my mind just kept going back to it. My heart shattered for Jane and Finn. I found myself getting so angry at their circumstances and worried that a HEA could not be in the cards for them.
This love story and the small town, family dynamic portrayed here is realistic and relatable. This book draws you in and doesn't let go until the very end. I will definitely be adding the other books in this series to my TBR and I can't wait to read more of this author's work.
August 8, 2022
Wow..wow...it took me 24 hours after reading this book to write a review. This book touched my heart and I kept remembering the story again and again. For the first time when reading a book I had no idea what´s gonna happen. This book is unpredictable. I couldn´t put myself in Anne´s shoes. It was not about second chances, because they didn´t have a first chance. Their future was ripped out because Finn made a mistake and didn´t have a choice, but he paid for the consequences. It changed everything. Finn, the love of Anne´s life, the man that she was going to spend the rest of her life with, now was going to marry with Avery, her cousin, who their parents called her Anne´s sister. So, there was no second chance, they just wanted a chance at all. I can´t imagine their pain, because they had to coexist with the family in a lot of events. So, this book is basically about love. Regrets? yes. Failures? yes. Mistakes? a lot of them. New beginnings?maybe. Love? for sure. The kind of strong feeling that happens just once in our lives. Finn and Anne love each other, but fate had another plans. Anne tried to go through life without thinking abouth him,and Finn had just accepts his destiny. Fourteen years later, their love is still strong, unconditional and maybe eternal. " I love you now,then, and, always". This book is simply amazing. Loved it since from the beginning to the end. A must read. It´s worth more than 5 stars.
August 4, 2022
This book was like riding a rollercoaster it brought you to your highest highs but just as intensely your lowest lows, at the end though, you come out of this book with the biggest smile and that sense of pride for withstanding such an emotional thrill.
"Jane was his, and he was hers. And that was all that mattered." -Finn
This love story...devastating and yet so uplifting. The love Jane/Anne and Finn have for each other was exquisite to read, giving each other up but still harboring those feelings, unwavering despite the forces that kept them apart. Their love to me is like the description Max gave for Jane's paintings "...strong but still...soft."
Seeing them come together again ( how my heart soared!), seeing them openly become each others strength, anchoring each other against the backlash of Jane's family (and finally FINALLY seeing them break out of that toxic "family is everything" mentality- because yes, family is family but there is a limit to what you should put yourself through for them), having Jane stand up for her wants and going for them while still staying true to herself is goals. Don't even get me started on generous, selfless, steadfast, gorgeous Finn. Who lives and breathes for those he loves most.
You'd better believe that i'll be re-reading this book at least once a year specially after reading Finn and Jane's hard won HEA
"Jane was his, and he was hers. And that was all that mattered." -Finn
This love story...devastating and yet so uplifting. The love Jane/Anne and Finn have for each other was exquisite to read, giving each other up but still harboring those feelings, unwavering despite the forces that kept them apart. Their love to me is like the description Max gave for Jane's paintings "...strong but still...soft."
Seeing them come together again ( how my heart soared!), seeing them openly become each others strength, anchoring each other against the backlash of Jane's family (and finally FINALLY seeing them break out of that toxic "family is everything" mentality- because yes, family is family but there is a limit to what you should put yourself through for them), having Jane stand up for her wants and going for them while still staying true to herself is goals. Don't even get me started on generous, selfless, steadfast, gorgeous Finn. Who lives and breathes for those he loves most.
You'd better believe that i'll be re-reading this book at least once a year specially after reading Finn and Jane's hard won HEA
August 5, 2022
This novel was everything I hoped it to be and then some. Lily has such a talent for bringing her stories to life. You can’t help but feel like you are part of the story and experience all the feels that the characters are feeling.
There was such depth within this novel that extended beyond the main characters, including immediate family members as well. Finn made some bad decisions in his younger years that did not make me very happy however without those decisions, this story would lack a main component. My heart ached for Jane/Anne and Finn through out this beautiful tale. To withstand years of loving someone that is off limits is brutal. Can their years of love for each other win over the conflict within the family? It gets messy…..
Thankfully, Lily takes our heart’s broken pieces and carefully puts them all back together to end with a beautiful happily ever after for most involved. My heart is full. ❤️ I look forward to hopefully hearing the stories of other friends within the Riviera View community. Another two thumbs up for Lily!
There was such depth within this novel that extended beyond the main characters, including immediate family members as well. Finn made some bad decisions in his younger years that did not make me very happy however without those decisions, this story would lack a main component. My heart ached for Jane/Anne and Finn through out this beautiful tale. To withstand years of loving someone that is off limits is brutal. Can their years of love for each other win over the conflict within the family? It gets messy…..
Thankfully, Lily takes our heart’s broken pieces and carefully puts them all back together to end with a beautiful happily ever after for most involved. My heart is full. ❤️ I look forward to hopefully hearing the stories of other friends within the Riviera View community. Another two thumbs up for Lily!
July 8, 2023
Amazing, Heartfelt, Emotional & Steamy
This book is so beautifully written. It will shatter your heart, as all you want is for Anne/Jane and Finn to have their happiness together. But there are so many roadblocks for them. Their story is beautiful, I love that they have known each other for so long. And all they have ever wanted was each other. But fate has got in their way over and over again.
This is an awesome beautiful story that will have you on the edge of your seat. I highly recommend it.
This book is so beautifully written. It will shatter your heart, as all you want is for Anne/Jane and Finn to have their happiness together. But there are so many roadblocks for them. Their story is beautiful, I love that they have known each other for so long. And all they have ever wanted was each other. But fate has got in their way over and over again.
This is an awesome beautiful story that will have you on the edge of your seat. I highly recommend it.
August 2, 2022
Spoiler alert!!!!! If I could, the book will get 12 stars…. A must read, get that copy sooner than soon!!! You will get lost in the magical moments of the One that almost got away…..
I tried to convince myself to put the book down, but once I started, I couldn’t put it down. I was totally engrossed, wrapped in a love story (similar to one’s own, perhaps) Lily Baines, I read this sensational romantic story in one evening. Sleep deprived the next day, but on a total high when I reached the end…An additional Epilogue will be lovely. Felt as if the main hero & heroine were part of my inner circle. So, reading more about them would be stunning! Can we please say thank you to authors like Lily Baines, who recognizes that love later in life is still possible, there’s still hope for one’s own happily-embracing-life-together-one puzzle piece at a time. Gosh! I need some of that kinda love, for real! Lily, you are remarkable in your approach to giving life to these characters & their unique love story. Get a copy, you will be transported to Lily-land…
I tried to convince myself to put the book down, but once I started, I couldn’t put it down. I was totally engrossed, wrapped in a love story (similar to one’s own, perhaps) Lily Baines, I read this sensational romantic story in one evening. Sleep deprived the next day, but on a total high when I reached the end…An additional Epilogue will be lovely. Felt as if the main hero & heroine were part of my inner circle. So, reading more about them would be stunning! Can we please say thank you to authors like Lily Baines, who recognizes that love later in life is still possible, there’s still hope for one’s own happily-embracing-life-together-one puzzle piece at a time. Gosh! I need some of that kinda love, for real! Lily, you are remarkable in your approach to giving life to these characters & their unique love story. Get a copy, you will be transported to Lily-land…
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 4, 2022
Cry Me A River
If you are going to read this book make sure you have plenty of tissues. I cried happy tears, sad tears, happy tears, very, very, very sad tears and finally oh so happy ones.
The journey of Finn and Jane/Anne was heartbreaking. It is amazing how one decision in time can lead to both a life of regret and also happiness.
I personally didn’t like several of the decisions Finn made after his first mistake, although I understand why he made them, and without them there wouldn’t be much of a story.
You Weren’t Mine Then will be sticking around with me for a long time as I put in in my to be reread pile. I guess I’m a glutton for punishment.
I received a copy of this book and voluntarily chose to review it.
If you are going to read this book make sure you have plenty of tissues. I cried happy tears, sad tears, happy tears, very, very, very sad tears and finally oh so happy ones.
The journey of Finn and Jane/Anne was heartbreaking. It is amazing how one decision in time can lead to both a life of regret and also happiness.
I personally didn’t like several of the decisions Finn made after his first mistake, although I understand why he made them, and without them there wouldn’t be much of a story.
You Weren’t Mine Then will be sticking around with me for a long time as I put in in my to be reread pile. I guess I’m a glutton for punishment.
I received a copy of this book and voluntarily chose to review it.
August 3, 2022
This is book 3 of the Riviera view series. This is Jane/Ann’s and Finns story. This book evoked so many emotions, it was heartbreaking, beautiful, romantic, sweet and hot. The hardships that these two had to endure for a happy ever after. Lily you really messed with my head! ( don’t worry I still love you) Avery really was a piece of work! They loved each for so long but couldn’t be together, it was heart wrenching. Loved the main characters,I felt the same pain they did and was rooting for them to find their hea. Pretty hot too. and Max deserves a little mention what an amazing young man. Love conquers all. Can’t wait for the next. I received this book as an arc and if I could give more than 5 stars then I would!
August 5, 2022
OMG, I love this story! I felt all the pain Jane and Finn endured over the years from family and small town gossipers! I hurt for Jane for just walking through life pleasing everyone else and for Finn trying to do what’s right but being miserable. This is an emotional slow burn second chance romance. The is so much passion between Jane and Finn. It is romantic, steamy, sad, frustrating and funny. You might want tissue nearby. I loved it so much I bought the first 2 books in the series!
I received and ARC for an honest review.
I received and ARC for an honest review.
August 3, 2022
My heart was on a roller coaster throughout this whole book. The amount of hope, then heartbreak, then hope again was unreal. My heart broke for Jane. You can feel her pain. But honestly that’s what makes this story so much sweeter. The HEA is just such a feel good ending! This definitely makes the list of books I wish I could go back and read again for the first time!
August 8, 2022
Loved this story of second chance (maybe third chance) at love. Finn and Jane meet in high school and get along famously. After college they meet up again and start a romance. Until something big gets in their way. Lovely story of longing and love and doing the right thing.
July 22, 2022
Such a heart-breaking story. 😩 My heart broke for Finn and Anne and the decisions they had to make and their missed opportunities.
August 9, 2022
📚ARC Review📚
You Weren't Mine Then🏊🏻♂️
Out Now✨
5/5⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
You know that book you wish you could experience for the first time all over again?
Well this is one of them. 💙
From the start you feel this connection to this characters to their feelings and emotions. I usually prefer 1st person POVs in books but this was so well written that I hardly noticed. It gave me as a reader a deeper understanding of the characters.
Jane, bless her heart is one of my favorite leads this year by far! I loved her quiet nature and the fact that she had this witty personally that was reserved for when she needed it. She was also very kind and just good you don't get that a lot. 💗
Finn my beautiful husbandoo. God, i knew I was going to love him from the first chapter and I also knew it was gonna be a rollercoaster ride of emotions. Good lord he was swoony as hell!! He was also such a great dad. That was one of my favorite things. His relationship with his son was never something that was just there. 💗
I loved Finn and Jane together! It was simply magic. They made each other better and you could see the friendship woven within the relationship. Their banter over the years was a favorite. I loved how their past was told to us. 🥰 Also this one was steamy so keep that in mind!🔥👀
Max was a sweetheart and once again. Lily does an amazing job at writing realistic kids! THANK-YOU! ✌🏻
Jane's Dad is the real MVP I needed to say that! 😭♥️
Now to the conflict! It was so well realized! All the sides to it. It was a mess it really was and I loved how it was handled! Which brings me to Avery. God I hate her lol 🤣 But I loved how her situation was handled. It wasn't this over the top thing. It was such a realistic depiction of what would actually happen in real life. It made the story feel grounded.
Overall, this is my favorite book from Lily so far. So many memorable lines and swoony moments that my little hopeless romantic heart was overjoyed! 💗
You Weren't Mine Then🏊🏻♂️
Out Now✨
5/5⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
You know that book you wish you could experience for the first time all over again?
Well this is one of them. 💙
From the start you feel this connection to this characters to their feelings and emotions. I usually prefer 1st person POVs in books but this was so well written that I hardly noticed. It gave me as a reader a deeper understanding of the characters.
Jane, bless her heart is one of my favorite leads this year by far! I loved her quiet nature and the fact that she had this witty personally that was reserved for when she needed it. She was also very kind and just good you don't get that a lot. 💗
Finn my beautiful husbandoo. God, i knew I was going to love him from the first chapter and I also knew it was gonna be a rollercoaster ride of emotions. Good lord he was swoony as hell!! He was also such a great dad. That was one of my favorite things. His relationship with his son was never something that was just there. 💗
I loved Finn and Jane together! It was simply magic. They made each other better and you could see the friendship woven within the relationship. Their banter over the years was a favorite. I loved how their past was told to us. 🥰 Also this one was steamy so keep that in mind!🔥👀
Max was a sweetheart and once again. Lily does an amazing job at writing realistic kids! THANK-YOU! ✌🏻
Jane's Dad is the real MVP I needed to say that! 😭♥️
Now to the conflict! It was so well realized! All the sides to it. It was a mess it really was and I loved how it was handled! Which brings me to Avery. God I hate her lol 🤣 But I loved how her situation was handled. It wasn't this over the top thing. It was such a realistic depiction of what would actually happen in real life. It made the story feel grounded.
Overall, this is my favorite book from Lily so far. So many memorable lines and swoony moments that my little hopeless romantic heart was overjoyed! 💗
August 9, 2022
I definitely think this might be my favorite book in this series! I absolutely LOVED Finn, and I think what makes this book so good is because we get so much of his feelings. Though this is written in dual POV, Finn's love for Jane was so apparent and resolute that I totally understood his loyalty and desire for her. There was really just something about Finn that stuck with me, and I don't know if it's his decent and humble personality, or his love for his son, or his belief in their relationship; either way, I adored him and his heart.
Jane, who goes by her middle name Anne, honestly reminds me of myself. Like, we are literally people who go out of our way to appease and accommodate others, even at the expense of ourselves! I'm so glad she decided to stand up for her own happiness, though the journey was frustrating and I didn't know if Anne could do it. Sometimes I felt like Anne depended on Finn's love and determination to get through the tough parts, but as she grew up an only child, I'm glad she had someone who was in her corner! I love how she is quietly strong and never feels like she has to prove herself to anyone (or to address rumors). She's totally dignified and brave especially when it mattered, pointing out to people (ahem AVERY) that we need to put aside our own selfish desires so that our family can be happy. It's kind of ironic that Anne (and Finn) has taken this lesson to heart and done this so many times in their lives that I loved how determined they were in the end to find their own happiness.
Both of these characters are more mature, and so the writing reflects that. I love that the book address issues like family dynamics, responsibilities vs. desires, etc. There isn't going to be crazy dramatic flares, or unbelievable plots. I thought this was well written because it reflects the ages of the characters and their problems, but also the realities of life. I just enjoyed it so much!
Jane, who goes by her middle name Anne, honestly reminds me of myself. Like, we are literally people who go out of our way to appease and accommodate others, even at the expense of ourselves! I'm so glad she decided to stand up for her own happiness, though the journey was frustrating and I didn't know if Anne could do it. Sometimes I felt like Anne depended on Finn's love and determination to get through the tough parts, but as she grew up an only child, I'm glad she had someone who was in her corner! I love how she is quietly strong and never feels like she has to prove herself to anyone (or to address rumors). She's totally dignified and brave especially when it mattered, pointing out to people (ahem AVERY) that we need to put aside our own selfish desires so that our family can be happy. It's kind of ironic that Anne (and Finn) has taken this lesson to heart and done this so many times in their lives that I loved how determined they were in the end to find their own happiness.
Both of these characters are more mature, and so the writing reflects that. I love that the book address issues like family dynamics, responsibilities vs. desires, etc. There isn't going to be crazy dramatic flares, or unbelievable plots. I thought this was well written because it reflects the ages of the characters and their problems, but also the realities of life. I just enjoyed it so much!
August 11, 2022
A great angsty ride with Anne and Finn 💜
RATING: ⭐⭐⭐⭐.5
STEAM: 🔥🔥.5
How do you reconcile with the one person you've loved the most who also broke your heart?
Anne Drecher faces this dilemma when she comes back to her hometown to help her parents with their bakery. Coming home also meant dealing with the problems she had tried to leave behind, including facing Finn.
Finn Brennen is just trying to be a good dad and live his life now that he and his ex-wife finally parted ways. After finding out that Anne is back, he tries to reconnect but is immediately rebuffed. How could you forgive someone who ended up marrying their nemesis?
There was a lot to unpack as I was reading this book. Anne and Finn's history is definitely intertwined, but it is also so tangled. Now they are within reach, but how can they untangle the web that is their relationship?
Lily Baines tugs at your heartstrings with this slow-burn story. She does a great job of telling the story, toggling back and forth in time, to establish a deep connection between the two main characters. There is definitely a lot of angst, especially in the beginning, but they make you feel for Anne and Finn. I especially love the nuanced differences in the characters' personalities in the past and in the present. Baines infuses a higher level of maturity in the two when we see them interact with each other and other characters in present-day that is scaled back in the flashbacks.
This is the third book of Baines' Riviera View series, but it can definitely be read as a standalone. For those who are fans of the previous books, there are also nice cameos from the characters in those books.
RATING: ⭐⭐⭐⭐.5
STEAM: 🔥🔥.5
How do you reconcile with the one person you've loved the most who also broke your heart?
Anne Drecher faces this dilemma when she comes back to her hometown to help her parents with their bakery. Coming home also meant dealing with the problems she had tried to leave behind, including facing Finn.
Finn Brennen is just trying to be a good dad and live his life now that he and his ex-wife finally parted ways. After finding out that Anne is back, he tries to reconnect but is immediately rebuffed. How could you forgive someone who ended up marrying their nemesis?
There was a lot to unpack as I was reading this book. Anne and Finn's history is definitely intertwined, but it is also so tangled. Now they are within reach, but how can they untangle the web that is their relationship?
Lily Baines tugs at your heartstrings with this slow-burn story. She does a great job of telling the story, toggling back and forth in time, to establish a deep connection between the two main characters. There is definitely a lot of angst, especially in the beginning, but they make you feel for Anne and Finn. I especially love the nuanced differences in the characters' personalities in the past and in the present. Baines infuses a higher level of maturity in the two when we see them interact with each other and other characters in present-day that is scaled back in the flashbacks.
This is the third book of Baines' Riviera View series, but it can definitely be read as a standalone. For those who are fans of the previous books, there are also nice cameos from the characters in those books.
August 9, 2022
"I Love You Now, Then, and Always."
Oh My Heart! Finn and Anne slayed me in the best and worst way.
You Weren't Mine Then by Lily Baines is a beautifully written and truly heart aching second chance love story.
Instantly my heart and reading soul were invested in this story. Finn and Anne share a truly sweet and utterly heart-aching past.
And..... Now....
Years may have passed but the connection they share still burns as bright as ever.
Their lives, circumstances and dreams took them on seperate paths, but now back in close proximity will they get their second chance?
Finn is simply PERFECTION and it's impossible not to fall in love with him.
The father he is to his son... SWOON!
How he loved and cherished Anne... SWOON!
A man who wears his heart on his sleeve.... SWOON!
The way he saw a version of Anne no one else did... SWOON!
Everything Finn was..... SWOON!
Gosh my heart ached for this man though, you could feel his pain and desire.
Anne our heroine is amazing and admirable! Believe me, not many would just accept the cards she was dealt at times. Oh how I rooted for her and the HEA she deserved more than anyone.
Finn and Anne's past and present journey took me on an emotional rollercoaster ride. I smiled, I swooned (hard), I got frustrated (some damn people), I may have got a little dust in my eye (ok it may have been a tear or two) and my heart, oh how it both ached (hello angst) and truly warmed (all the love).
And...
When they both found the courage to fight for what they both wanted and truly deserved I pulled out the pom poms and became their biggest cheerleader.
I loved and highly recommend this truly beautiful second chance romance story!
Oh My Heart! Finn and Anne slayed me in the best and worst way.
You Weren't Mine Then by Lily Baines is a beautifully written and truly heart aching second chance love story.
Instantly my heart and reading soul were invested in this story. Finn and Anne share a truly sweet and utterly heart-aching past.
And..... Now....
Years may have passed but the connection they share still burns as bright as ever.
Their lives, circumstances and dreams took them on seperate paths, but now back in close proximity will they get their second chance?
Finn is simply PERFECTION and it's impossible not to fall in love with him.
The father he is to his son... SWOON!
How he loved and cherished Anne... SWOON!
A man who wears his heart on his sleeve.... SWOON!
The way he saw a version of Anne no one else did... SWOON!
Everything Finn was..... SWOON!
Gosh my heart ached for this man though, you could feel his pain and desire.
Anne our heroine is amazing and admirable! Believe me, not many would just accept the cards she was dealt at times. Oh how I rooted for her and the HEA she deserved more than anyone.
Finn and Anne's past and present journey took me on an emotional rollercoaster ride. I smiled, I swooned (hard), I got frustrated (some damn people), I may have got a little dust in my eye (ok it may have been a tear or two) and my heart, oh how it both ached (hello angst) and truly warmed (all the love).
And...
When they both found the courage to fight for what they both wanted and truly deserved I pulled out the pom poms and became their biggest cheerleader.
I loved and highly recommend this truly beautiful second chance romance story!
August 8, 2022
You Weren't Mine Then is exactly what I was looking for to get wrapped up in this summer! This sweet, second chance, small town, single dad romance packs all the feels! Finn and Jane (Anne) have loved each other for years from afar after life-changing, devastating decisions were made. Time away has made it easier for Jane, but now Finn is back and determined to be with her and prove that it has always been her! "You're always Jane to me. Even when you're Anne."
Family plays a huge role in their relationship, making it difficult for the two of them to be together. My heart broke for Jane having to see Finn during family events and always wondering about the what ifs. It took an unimaginable amount of time for Finn and Jane to finally get their HEA, and I was so happy when they finally did! The emotional intensity was unlike any other!
You Weren't Mine Then is a slower burn with build up over time and older characters having amazing dialogue! It will tug on your heart strings! I definitely recommend it!
Family plays a huge role in their relationship, making it difficult for the two of them to be together. My heart broke for Jane having to see Finn during family events and always wondering about the what ifs. It took an unimaginable amount of time for Finn and Jane to finally get their HEA, and I was so happy when they finally did! The emotional intensity was unlike any other!
You Weren't Mine Then is a slower burn with build up over time and older characters having amazing dialogue! It will tug on your heart strings! I definitely recommend it!
August 9, 2022
✺ 𝙱𝙾𝙾𝙺 𝚁𝙴𝚅𝙸𝙴𝚆 ✺
𝐀 𝐡𝐞𝐚𝐫𝐭-𝐰𝐫𝐞𝐧𝐜𝐡𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐬𝐞𝐜𝐨𝐧𝐝 𝐜𝐡𝐚𝐧𝐜𝐞 𝐫𝐨𝐦𝐚𝐧𝐜𝐞 𝐭𝐡𝐚𝐭 𝐈 𝐟𝐞𝐥𝐥 𝐢𝐧 𝐥𝐨𝐯𝐞 𝐰𝐢𝐭𝐡 𝐟𝐫𝐨𝐦 𝐩𝐚𝐠𝐞 𝐨𝐧𝐞 ♡
There is something about single-parent tropes that I love. Mix that with second-chance romance, and 𝐏𝐄𝐑𝐅𝐄𝐂𝐓𝐈𝐎𝐍 ♡
I’m not a big fan of writing that goes from past to present. Nonetheless, I found this one to be just right. Without the back and forth, it wouldn’t have evoked the same emotions. I ugly cried, I strongly disliked certain characters, I fell in love with Anne and Finn’s love, and as always, Max was the favorite in the story! I enjoyed this read so much! A new favorite to the list!
—
Anne didn’t see coming the feelings that grew over the years for Finn. He was charming, funny, easy-going, everything you would envision in the perfect guy. She wasn’t afraid to love, and neither was he. The only thing they were afraid of was loving each other so much that they could ultimately be the reason for ruining a close-knit family. Was it worth the heartache it would cause? Or was it better to keep pretending there was nothing between them at all?
𝐀 𝐡𝐞𝐚𝐫𝐭-𝐰𝐫𝐞𝐧𝐜𝐡𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐬𝐞𝐜𝐨𝐧𝐝 𝐜𝐡𝐚𝐧𝐜𝐞 𝐫𝐨𝐦𝐚𝐧𝐜𝐞 𝐭𝐡𝐚𝐭 𝐈 𝐟𝐞𝐥𝐥 𝐢𝐧 𝐥𝐨𝐯𝐞 𝐰𝐢𝐭𝐡 𝐟𝐫𝐨𝐦 𝐩𝐚𝐠𝐞 𝐨𝐧𝐞 ♡
There is something about single-parent tropes that I love. Mix that with second-chance romance, and 𝐏𝐄𝐑𝐅𝐄𝐂𝐓𝐈𝐎𝐍 ♡
I’m not a big fan of writing that goes from past to present. Nonetheless, I found this one to be just right. Without the back and forth, it wouldn’t have evoked the same emotions. I ugly cried, I strongly disliked certain characters, I fell in love with Anne and Finn’s love, and as always, Max was the favorite in the story! I enjoyed this read so much! A new favorite to the list!
—
Anne didn’t see coming the feelings that grew over the years for Finn. He was charming, funny, easy-going, everything you would envision in the perfect guy. She wasn’t afraid to love, and neither was he. The only thing they were afraid of was loving each other so much that they could ultimately be the reason for ruining a close-knit family. Was it worth the heartache it would cause? Or was it better to keep pretending there was nothing between them at all?
August 13, 2022
Finn and Anne/Jane’s story is my favorite of the Riviera View series. I absolutely loved their story. This is a story full of angst and slow burn. Finn captures your heart as the guy who does what is right. Jane is the sweet girl who always puts others before herself.
Finn and Jane became friends in high school when she tutored him. Years later they shared an incredible week together and believed they had a future together… until they didn’t. Finn’s recent past caught up with them and kept them apart for over a decade. But, does true love ever really die?
The two meet again. Jane now goes by her middle name, Anne and Finn decides to throw caution to the wind and try to win back his true love.
I enjoyed reading their story, past and present, from both points of view. The secondary characters really made the story. I enjoyed the tidbits from the previous books’ characters. Max, Finn’s son, is the sweetest kid ever. And don’t get me started on Avery. I wasn’t a fan of hers in the second book and I definitely couldn’t stand her in this one. However, I also want to know her story… and meet a man who can actually tame her.
Finn and Jane became friends in high school when she tutored him. Years later they shared an incredible week together and believed they had a future together… until they didn’t. Finn’s recent past caught up with them and kept them apart for over a decade. But, does true love ever really die?
The two meet again. Jane now goes by her middle name, Anne and Finn decides to throw caution to the wind and try to win back his true love.
I enjoyed reading their story, past and present, from both points of view. The secondary characters really made the story. I enjoyed the tidbits from the previous books’ characters. Max, Finn’s son, is the sweetest kid ever. And don’t get me started on Avery. I wasn’t a fan of hers in the second book and I definitely couldn’t stand her in this one. However, I also want to know her story… and meet a man who can actually tame her.
August 7, 2022
Holy small town second chance ANGST! Yes, I capitalized ANGST, as that is what “You Weren’t Mine Then” by Lily Baines is full of. I’m talking it took years for Finn and Anne to get together, only to be ripped apart for over a decade. During which time they constantly fought their feelings and did their best to keep their distance from each other. Talk about a lump in my chest while I read this one. Family dynamics play a large part in this love story. Doing the right thing and putting others first can come with a heavy price. Sometimes in life you must rip the blinders off and acknowledge situations for what they are, not what others wish they were. Ultimately, it’s ok to listen to your heart over your mind and put your happiness first. Those that truly love you will always support you as they want you to be happy. Those that don’t know where the door is. Life is just too short.
I received an ARC from the author, and this is my honest review.
I received an ARC from the author, and this is my honest review.
August 11, 2022
Moving, captivating, realistic, unputdownable… a must read. I really enjoy Lily Baines’ writing.
Anne and Finn. Best friends at school, destined to share the future, until a huge and unexpected spanner is thrown into the works. They are separated by college and career and years of “doing the right thing” for the sake of others, and especially Anne’s extended family. When Anne moves back to her hometown, the couple discover that their chemistry hasn’t diminished, can they reconnect? But… life is never easy.
The readers will share the couples’ angst and emotional pressure and also be looking for a happy solution.
I received this book as an arc and this review is entirely voluntary.
Anne and Finn. Best friends at school, destined to share the future, until a huge and unexpected spanner is thrown into the works. They are separated by college and career and years of “doing the right thing” for the sake of others, and especially Anne’s extended family. When Anne moves back to her hometown, the couple discover that their chemistry hasn’t diminished, can they reconnect? But… life is never easy.
The readers will share the couples’ angst and emotional pressure and also be looking for a happy solution.
I received this book as an arc and this review is entirely voluntary.
August 7, 2022
Book 3 in the Riviera View series—interconnected (because of the small beach town and friend group) standalone books.
Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ (0-5)
Steam: 🔥🔥🔥☄️3.5 (0-5)
Thank you so much Lily for trusting me to beta read this stunning story and allowing me to share my thoughts and feelings with you. Our friendship is such a treasure!
What I’m Starry-Eyed Over:
🤩 If you are a second-chance romance lover, you need this one!
🤩 Small beach-town vibes! 🌴
🤩 Perfect placement of steamy scenes in multiple flashbacks and current time plot—so clever and captivating (that need-to-know feeling) while also very hot! 🥵 Plus, a surprise scene I was not even expecting at all that knocked my socks off—totally worth its own star and bumped this one right up to 6 shining stars for me. 💦
🤩 The characterization is top notch. You will “get” Anne (Jane) and Finn from the moment you meet them. They are so good and stay so true throughout!!
🤩 Anne is this adorable and sweet wallflower of an artist and cake designer helping run her parents’ small-town bakery. 🎂
🤩 Finn is a champion swimmer turned amazing dad. 🏊♂️ Max is the cherry on top—he’s one of the coolest tweens you’ll ever meet!
🤩 When they get together, there’s not much wallflower and whole lot of championing!! Plus, they are so cute and goofy together--adding fun and spunk to the book!
🤩 “Steamotional,” all the feels, but thankfully not heart-wrecking. Even through a bunch of holiday family drama, I never lost hope. Thank you, Lily, for the steam when I wasn’t sure I could handle the longing and sadness. Thank you for the hope even through the hard part.
What I’m Wishing/Dizzy About:
💫 Avery, again! I hated her in You Didn’t Know Me Then (book 2 in the series). She needs some serious therapy and/or medical intervention. Poor Max to have her as a mom. But, I actually think this is a 🤩 because it’s great writing if I’m disliking somebody this strongly.
Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ (0-5)
Steam: 🔥🔥🔥☄️3.5 (0-5)
Thank you so much Lily for trusting me to beta read this stunning story and allowing me to share my thoughts and feelings with you. Our friendship is such a treasure!
What I’m Starry-Eyed Over:
🤩 If you are a second-chance romance lover, you need this one!
🤩 Small beach-town vibes! 🌴
🤩 Perfect placement of steamy scenes in multiple flashbacks and current time plot—so clever and captivating (that need-to-know feeling) while also very hot! 🥵 Plus, a surprise scene I was not even expecting at all that knocked my socks off—totally worth its own star and bumped this one right up to 6 shining stars for me. 💦
🤩 The characterization is top notch. You will “get” Anne (Jane) and Finn from the moment you meet them. They are so good and stay so true throughout!!
🤩 Anne is this adorable and sweet wallflower of an artist and cake designer helping run her parents’ small-town bakery. 🎂
🤩 Finn is a champion swimmer turned amazing dad. 🏊♂️ Max is the cherry on top—he’s one of the coolest tweens you’ll ever meet!
🤩 When they get together, there’s not much wallflower and whole lot of championing!! Plus, they are so cute and goofy together--adding fun and spunk to the book!
🤩 “Steamotional,” all the feels, but thankfully not heart-wrecking. Even through a bunch of holiday family drama, I never lost hope. Thank you, Lily, for the steam when I wasn’t sure I could handle the longing and sadness. Thank you for the hope even through the hard part.
What I’m Wishing/Dizzy About:
💫 Avery, again! I hated her in You Didn’t Know Me Then (book 2 in the series). She needs some serious therapy and/or medical intervention. Poor Max to have her as a mom. But, I actually think this is a 🤩 because it’s great writing if I’m disliking somebody this strongly.
September 20, 2022
All I need to see is Lily Baines on the cover and I know this is going to be an incredible, realistic, emotional read! Baines covers some really hard issues in this one, including dysfunctional family dynamics, falling in love, and finding out the MMC has a love child from a previous hookup (zero cheating). But what makes this book is how the characters navigate their challenges apart, as well as together, eventually finding their way back to one another and standing up for themselves and one another. If you love a little side of angst with your romance, grab this one TODAY!!!
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