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Still Here Without You
Delilah Campbell is the most infuriating woman I’ve ever met. And yet, I can’t seem to stay away.
She’s sassy, opinionated, strong-willed, and so beautiful, it hurts.
We’re meant to be. Soul mates, end game. She’s it for me, and I know she feels the same. Only she’s fighting it.
She’s fighting us.
Sure, I messed up. In some ways, we both did. But there’s more to it. Something I’m missing.
Something I’m desperate to find out.
Question is…what if I’m too late?
Still Here Without You is a dual POV emotional new adult, second chance, college sports romance filled with humor, heart and spice. This interconnected standalone is book two in the heartstrings series and contains adult language with some storylines that may be triggering. All triggers will be available on my website prior to the books release.
She’s sassy, opinionated, strong-willed, and so beautiful, it hurts.
We’re meant to be. Soul mates, end game. She’s it for me, and I know she feels the same. Only she’s fighting it.
She’s fighting us.
Sure, I messed up. In some ways, we both did. But there’s more to it. Something I’m missing.
Something I’m desperate to find out.
Question is…what if I’m too late?
Still Here Without You is a dual POV emotional new adult, second chance, college sports romance filled with humor, heart and spice. This interconnected standalone is book two in the heartstrings series and contains adult language with some storylines that may be triggering. All triggers will be available on my website prior to the books release.
411 pages, Kindle Edition
Published October 12, 2022
133 people are currently reading
1169 people want to read
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October 16, 2022DNF. SPOILERS!
I don't invest my time and money into books that depict cheating as romance. This was a DNF a refund for me.
This overused cliché is f***ed up. There is never any excuse or redemption for cheating. It's not romantic or entertaining. It's plain gross and unforgivable and no spin on it can make it right.
It can't be undone, forgotten or forgiven if you have any value of yourself, so then what message are they sending to young readers when they write this crap? That cheating is normal? That men can't stay faithful or think with their Big heads? LOL. I am so tired of this shite.....
I don't invest my time and money into books that depict cheating as romance. This was a DNF a refund for me.
This overused cliché is f***ed up. There is never any excuse or redemption for cheating. It's not romantic or entertaining. It's plain gross and unforgivable and no spin on it can make it right.
It can't be undone, forgotten or forgiven if you have any value of yourself, so then what message are they sending to young readers when they write this crap? That cheating is normal? That men can't stay faithful or think with their Big heads? LOL. I am so tired of this shite.....
September 30, 2022
| 𝗦𝘁𝗶𝗹𝗹 𝗛𝗲𝗿𝗲 𝗪𝗶𝘁𝗵𝗼𝘂𝘁 𝗬𝗼𝘂
“𝙎𝙝𝙚 𝙙𝙞𝙙 𝙞𝙩. 𝗝𝘂𝘀𝘁 𝗹𝗶𝗸𝗲 𝗜 𝗸𝗻𝗲𝘄 𝘀𝗵𝗲 𝘄𝗼𝘂𝗹𝗱. 𝗧𝗵𝗶𝘀 𝗯𝗲𝗮𝘂𝘁𝗶𝗳𝘂𝗹 𝗵𝘂𝗺𝗮𝗻 𝗰𝗮𝗻 𝗱𝗼 𝗮𝗻𝘆𝘁𝗵𝗶𝗻𝗴.“
Still Here Without You is a book you need to immediately add to your TBR asap!
Laugh-out-loud banter from beginning to end. Good spice. Such deep emotions. I cried. I tried to hold it in but one single line made me drop the book and put my face in my hands and just let go.
“’𝗜 𝗰𝗮𝗻’𝘁 𝗹𝗲𝘁 𝗴𝗼, 𝗗𝗲𝗹.’“
Joel and Delilah are so perfect. Joel is sexy AF (ahem, he rides a motorcycle 🤤), he says all of the right things, so supportive and he’s hilarious. And he stopped at NOTHING to always keep Delilah through their struggles. And his POV was 😘🤌🏼 Absolutely the best. I literally felt aches in my heart from how much I felt in his chapters.
“‘𝗟𝗲𝘁 𝗺𝗲 𝗳𝗶𝗴𝗵𝘁 𝗳𝗼𝗿 𝘆𝗼𝘂.’“
Delilah. She is SO fierce and sassy (my favorite type of FMC). All she ever wanted to do was protect Joel’s heart because she loved him so much. I love her for that.
Thank you Katherine for the ARC. I’m so happy I finally picked up your books. I’m a forever fan!
𝕄𝕪 ℝ𝕒𝕥𝕚𝕟𝕘: 5⭐️
👉🏼 𝗥𝗲𝗮𝗱 𝗶𝗳 𝘆𝗼𝘂 𝗹𝗶𝗸𝗲:
-frenemies-to-lovers
-aaaaall the banter!
-a sassy FMC
-motorcycle riding MMC
-emotional romance
-college setting
-kindle unlimited books
-angst
-public seggs scenes 🥵
-dual POV
“𝙎𝙝𝙚 𝙙𝙞𝙙 𝙞𝙩. 𝗝𝘂𝘀𝘁 𝗹𝗶𝗸𝗲 𝗜 𝗸𝗻𝗲𝘄 𝘀𝗵𝗲 𝘄𝗼𝘂𝗹𝗱. 𝗧𝗵𝗶𝘀 𝗯𝗲𝗮𝘂𝘁𝗶𝗳𝘂𝗹 𝗵𝘂𝗺𝗮𝗻 𝗰𝗮𝗻 𝗱𝗼 𝗮𝗻𝘆𝘁𝗵𝗶𝗻𝗴.“
Still Here Without You is a book you need to immediately add to your TBR asap!
Laugh-out-loud banter from beginning to end. Good spice. Such deep emotions. I cried. I tried to hold it in but one single line made me drop the book and put my face in my hands and just let go.
“’𝗜 𝗰𝗮𝗻’𝘁 𝗹𝗲𝘁 𝗴𝗼, 𝗗𝗲𝗹.’“
Joel and Delilah are so perfect. Joel is sexy AF (ahem, he rides a motorcycle 🤤), he says all of the right things, so supportive and he’s hilarious. And he stopped at NOTHING to always keep Delilah through their struggles. And his POV was 😘🤌🏼 Absolutely the best. I literally felt aches in my heart from how much I felt in his chapters.
“‘𝗟𝗲𝘁 𝗺𝗲 𝗳𝗶𝗴𝗵𝘁 𝗳𝗼𝗿 𝘆𝗼𝘂.’“
Delilah. She is SO fierce and sassy (my favorite type of FMC). All she ever wanted to do was protect Joel’s heart because she loved him so much. I love her for that.
Thank you Katherine for the ARC. I’m so happy I finally picked up your books. I’m a forever fan!
𝕄𝕪 ℝ𝕒𝕥𝕚𝕟𝕘: 5⭐️
👉🏼 𝗥𝗲𝗮𝗱 𝗶𝗳 𝘆𝗼𝘂 𝗹𝗶𝗸𝗲:
-frenemies-to-lovers
-aaaaall the banter!
-a sassy FMC
-motorcycle riding MMC
-emotional romance
-college setting
-kindle unlimited books
-angst
-public seggs scenes 🥵
-dual POV
October 11, 2022
This was my first ARC and it didn't disappoint! Joel and Delilah go through a rollercoaster journey that proves sometimes it's just right person wrong time!
I fell in love with Joel in WNEM and couldn't wait to see what happened between him and Delilah!
This is an angsty college romance which had me laughing, crying and literally wanting to through my kindle against the wall!
My favourite part was Joel being heartbroken and feeling all the pain he was in! It was so beautiful written and just made you feel everything x
The playlist and songs in the book add another layer and I will forever think of Joel when I hear 'You keep me hanging on by Kim Wilde'!
I highly recommend reading Ain't No Sunshine and When Nothing Else Matters first but they are interconnected stand alone so can be read separately.
Joel has stolen my heart and you can borrow him to read the story but he's mine I read him first! ❤️
I fell in love with Joel in WNEM and couldn't wait to see what happened between him and Delilah!
This is an angsty college romance which had me laughing, crying and literally wanting to through my kindle against the wall!
My favourite part was Joel being heartbroken and feeling all the pain he was in! It was so beautiful written and just made you feel everything x
The playlist and songs in the book add another layer and I will forever think of Joel when I hear 'You keep me hanging on by Kim Wilde'!
I highly recommend reading Ain't No Sunshine and When Nothing Else Matters first but they are interconnected stand alone so can be read separately.
Joel has stolen my heart and you can borrow him to read the story but he's mine I read him first! ❤️
October 11, 2022
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ / 🌶🌶.5
For those of you who loved When Nothing Else Matters, boy oh boy are you in for a treat when you read this! 😍
After meeting Joel in WNEM, I was so intrigued by him and when Katherine said his book was next I was so excited!
I couldn’t wait to find out about this gorgeous guy who gives off bad boy vibes but deep down is smart and compassionate.
Add the drop dead gorgeous, fiery red headed cheerleader, Delilah, that he’s pining over and man oh man, what a freaking pair they were together!
To be honest, I think I love Delilah more than Joel purely based on her sass and take no shit attitude 🤭
This will pull at your heartstrings, it’s emotional and raw and for some, it may touch on a topic that hits close to home so please check the trigger warnings before reading!
Katherines writing has grown so so much. She’s talented beyond belief and I have no doubt that you’ll love this, along with Joel and Delilah, probably even more than Dylan and Summer 🤭
Bring on book three!!! 😆😆😘😘
For those of you who loved When Nothing Else Matters, boy oh boy are you in for a treat when you read this! 😍
After meeting Joel in WNEM, I was so intrigued by him and when Katherine said his book was next I was so excited!
I couldn’t wait to find out about this gorgeous guy who gives off bad boy vibes but deep down is smart and compassionate.
Add the drop dead gorgeous, fiery red headed cheerleader, Delilah, that he’s pining over and man oh man, what a freaking pair they were together!
To be honest, I think I love Delilah more than Joel purely based on her sass and take no shit attitude 🤭
This will pull at your heartstrings, it’s emotional and raw and for some, it may touch on a topic that hits close to home so please check the trigger warnings before reading!
Katherines writing has grown so so much. She’s talented beyond belief and I have no doubt that you’ll love this, along with Joel and Delilah, probably even more than Dylan and Summer 🤭
Bring on book three!!! 😆😆😘😘
October 4, 2022
This is the second book after When Nothing Else Matters (which I loved! If you haven’t read that yet, rush over to KU and download it!). We get introduced to Joel in book one and I loved him instantly, so I was so excited that this book was about him! He did not disappoint in this book. I loved him the entire time. He was stable and funny, kind and passionate, he never wavered in his love for Delilah and it was beautiful. (Yes, even at THAT part, I don’t believe he was wrong.)
Now, let me tell you, this book had so much ANGST that I felt ALL of the emotions. I was angry, sad, frustrated, and then joyful and excited. It definitely gave me Love Letter to Whiskey vibes which you know I loved! I felt like I was feeling both of their heartbreaks right along with them, which made the great parts that must better.
I highly recommend this series, you won’t regret it. @katherinejayauthor … thank you for the ARC of this one and for letting me experience it with you!!
This book officially comes out on October 12 and you will NOT want to miss it! Preorder now, or download on the 12th when it hits Kindle Unlimited!!
Now, let me tell you, this book had so much ANGST that I felt ALL of the emotions. I was angry, sad, frustrated, and then joyful and excited. It definitely gave me Love Letter to Whiskey vibes which you know I loved! I felt like I was feeling both of their heartbreaks right along with them, which made the great parts that must better.
I highly recommend this series, you won’t regret it. @katherinejayauthor … thank you for the ARC of this one and for letting me experience it with you!!
This book officially comes out on October 12 and you will NOT want to miss it! Preorder now, or download on the 12th when it hits Kindle Unlimited!!
October 3, 2022
“you came back. you’re standing in front of me; i know you want me, and yet, i’m still here without you.”
4.25⭐️
guys what the FUCK. this book was an emotional rollercoaster that took me on a RIDEEEE WOWOWOWOWOWOW. i was luck enough to receive an ARC for this book and it did not disappoint i read this in TWO DAYS. i got sucked in and let me tell you joel and delilah did not disappoint.
one thing about me is that i will always love a good second chance romance. LOVE it. the angst, the heartbreak, the looks across rooms like pls it’s just so good. these mfs FOUGHT LIKE HELL to get their happy ending. i legit want to just give them both a hug. they both deserve the world methinks.
this book made me laugh, cry, sob, hysterically sob, and downright question why i was doing this to myself(in a good way!!) joel is so swoony and delilah was so damn relatable!!! (crying in the shower, same girl same.) i also loved the summer and dylan cameos UGH i just love this friend group so much 😭
this releases on october 12th !! and is available for preorder now!!
i def recommend reading dylan and summers story ‘when nothing else matters’ first as some parts overlap (and i love them so much)
4.25⭐️
guys what the FUCK. this book was an emotional rollercoaster that took me on a RIDEEEE WOWOWOWOWOWOW. i was luck enough to receive an ARC for this book and it did not disappoint i read this in TWO DAYS. i got sucked in and let me tell you joel and delilah did not disappoint.
one thing about me is that i will always love a good second chance romance. LOVE it. the angst, the heartbreak, the looks across rooms like pls it’s just so good. these mfs FOUGHT LIKE HELL to get their happy ending. i legit want to just give them both a hug. they both deserve the world methinks.
this book made me laugh, cry, sob, hysterically sob, and downright question why i was doing this to myself(in a good way!!) joel is so swoony and delilah was so damn relatable!!! (crying in the shower, same girl same.) i also loved the summer and dylan cameos UGH i just love this friend group so much 😭
this releases on october 12th !! and is available for preorder now!!
i def recommend reading dylan and summers story ‘when nothing else matters’ first as some parts overlap (and i love them so much)
April 6, 2023
i was lucky enough to receive and arc of still here without you and got to read it early! super grateful, thank you so much katherine🥹💗.
i just knew joel was going to be my favourite! we love a gorgeous, charming, witty, genius🤪 this man literally had me swooning all over the place, a man who knows what he wants and willing to do whatever it takes to get it🔥.
omg poor delilah, she’s been dealt the worst set of cards😭 my heart genuinely broke, i just wasn’t expecting all of these twists and angst🤯 this book definitely kept me on my toes, such an addictive read i couldn’t put it down!!
joel and delilah really have my whole heart, soulmates🥲 right person wrong time kinda vibes—always a heartbreaker. their chemistry is incredible, and their love story is completely epic.
i’m such a sucker for a lovable friendship group, and i adore the bromance and banter between joel and dylan in this so much!🫠🫶
the ending was so perfect, that extra epilogue just warmed my heart so much🥹 katherine really broke my heart to put it back together again in joel and delilah’s story💖 loved it so much!!
tropes:
• second chance romance
• college sports romance
• friends (frenemies) with benefits
• he falls first
• angsty spicy slow burn
i just knew joel was going to be my favourite! we love a gorgeous, charming, witty, genius🤪 this man literally had me swooning all over the place, a man who knows what he wants and willing to do whatever it takes to get it🔥.
omg poor delilah, she’s been dealt the worst set of cards😭 my heart genuinely broke, i just wasn’t expecting all of these twists and angst🤯 this book definitely kept me on my toes, such an addictive read i couldn’t put it down!!
joel and delilah really have my whole heart, soulmates🥲 right person wrong time kinda vibes—always a heartbreaker. their chemistry is incredible, and their love story is completely epic.
i’m such a sucker for a lovable friendship group, and i adore the bromance and banter between joel and dylan in this so much!🫠🫶
the ending was so perfect, that extra epilogue just warmed my heart so much🥹 katherine really broke my heart to put it back together again in joel and delilah’s story💖 loved it so much!!
tropes:
• second chance romance
• college sports romance
• friends (frenemies) with benefits
• he falls first
• angsty spicy slow burn
September 30, 2022
Joel & Delilah
This was an emotional journey. It was heartbreaking and beautiful at the same time.
Joel and Delilah hit it off from the start. Their flirtatious banter is EVERYTHING! Their back-and-forth teasing gave them undeniable chemistry! I love that part about them so much
Joel is so caring and considerate. We see this in WNEM. He knows exactly what his friends and Delilah need, and I love that about his character. Sometimes he justvsays allbthe right things. His internal monologue got me. Between his smart remarks, dirty thoughts, and how he really felt towards Delilah gave off all of the swoon (heart eye emoji).
I admire Delilah and her honesty. She challenged herself and juggled a lot all at once.
It was so difficult reading through her emotional thought process but, always thinking of Joel and wanting the best for him
Parts of their story hurt to read and Im still thinking about it.
"if you want that life back, just take it. It's fucking yours. I'm fucking yours"
I love this about Katherine's writing. Making me feel exactly how her characters are feeling. The hurt, pain, jealousy, and all the love they have for eachother
The relationships formed between all of Joels friends and Delilah, and having Dylan & Summer, and Nate & Cory appear in the story makes me so happy
Joel and Delilah have such a raw romance and had to endure and overcome some difficult situations to get to their happy ever after and I am ecstatic that they did. Makes my heart happy!!
I love this book and series so much I am obsessed with these characters
"I choose you. It will always be you. Every. Single. Time."
This was an emotional journey. It was heartbreaking and beautiful at the same time.
Joel and Delilah hit it off from the start. Their flirtatious banter is EVERYTHING! Their back-and-forth teasing gave them undeniable chemistry! I love that part about them so much
Joel is so caring and considerate. We see this in WNEM. He knows exactly what his friends and Delilah need, and I love that about his character. Sometimes he justvsays allbthe right things. His internal monologue got me. Between his smart remarks, dirty thoughts, and how he really felt towards Delilah gave off all of the swoon (heart eye emoji).
I admire Delilah and her honesty. She challenged herself and juggled a lot all at once.
It was so difficult reading through her emotional thought process but, always thinking of Joel and wanting the best for him
Parts of their story hurt to read and Im still thinking about it.
"if you want that life back, just take it. It's fucking yours. I'm fucking yours"
I love this about Katherine's writing. Making me feel exactly how her characters are feeling. The hurt, pain, jealousy, and all the love they have for eachother
The relationships formed between all of Joels friends and Delilah, and having Dylan & Summer, and Nate & Cory appear in the story makes me so happy
Joel and Delilah have such a raw romance and had to endure and overcome some difficult situations to get to their happy ever after and I am ecstatic that they did. Makes my heart happy!!
I love this book and series so much I am obsessed with these characters
"I choose you. It will always be you. Every. Single. Time."
October 4, 2022
** ARC Review **
I don't know what the right words are to describe how much I loved this book. From page one I was hooked and didn't ever want it to end. Joel was such a great character from 'When Nothing Else Matters' and was so excited to see his story with Delilah. I loved how this book started with their backstory (and not just a prologue, but half a books worth!), to really help you to understand their history and how deeply it affected them, and to establish more of a connection with these characters and their relationship. The journey you go on through this book is so well written and thought out. It had me screaming in frustration, burning with anger, blinking back tears, and laughing out loud (the banter between Joel and Delilah is AMAZING). Joel was the perfect book boyfriend, sexy, swoony, funny and just an all around amazing character. Delilah was such a strong (stubborn) and complex FMC and the perfect other half to Joel. As always, Katherine has so many fun pop culture references, which are always a nice surprise. I cannot recommend this book and series enough, and given the introduction in the epilogue, I cannot wait for book three!
I don't know what the right words are to describe how much I loved this book. From page one I was hooked and didn't ever want it to end. Joel was such a great character from 'When Nothing Else Matters' and was so excited to see his story with Delilah. I loved how this book started with their backstory (and not just a prologue, but half a books worth!), to really help you to understand their history and how deeply it affected them, and to establish more of a connection with these characters and their relationship. The journey you go on through this book is so well written and thought out. It had me screaming in frustration, burning with anger, blinking back tears, and laughing out loud (the banter between Joel and Delilah is AMAZING). Joel was the perfect book boyfriend, sexy, swoony, funny and just an all around amazing character. Delilah was such a strong (stubborn) and complex FMC and the perfect other half to Joel. As always, Katherine has so many fun pop culture references, which are always a nice surprise. I cannot recommend this book and series enough, and given the introduction in the epilogue, I cannot wait for book three!
October 7, 2022
I'm still a little lost for words. I didn't expect such an emotional read but this book is outstanding.
Joel and Delilah-these two! I love them even though they frustrated the living daylights out of me. But i can see why they are guarded and hurting each other thinking they were doing the right thing. I cried, actually full on ugly crying and had to stop reading in public.
This book is a must read! All the stars and goodness to you Katherine
Joel and Delilah-these two! I love them even though they frustrated the living daylights out of me. But i can see why they are guarded and hurting each other thinking they were doing the right thing. I cried, actually full on ugly crying and had to stop reading in public.
This book is a must read! All the stars and goodness to you Katherine
October 4, 2022
Ohh Katherine ...
This book is everything..
.
𝐇𝐞𝐚𝐫𝐭𝐰𝐚𝐫𝐦𝐢𝐧𝐠. 𝐀𝐧𝐠𝐬𝐭𝐲. 𝐄𝐦𝐨𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧𝐚𝐥.
.
A beautifuly written story. A love that trascends time, places and obstacles.
.
Joel Haynes .. you'll not forget his name ❤❤❤
(New Book Boyfriend 😎❤🔥👌everyone)
This book is everything..
.
𝐇𝐞𝐚𝐫𝐭𝐰𝐚𝐫𝐦𝐢𝐧𝐠. 𝐀𝐧𝐠𝐬𝐭𝐲. 𝐄𝐦𝐨𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧𝐚𝐥.
.
A beautifuly written story. A love that trascends time, places and obstacles.
.
Joel Haynes .. you'll not forget his name ❤❤❤
(New Book Boyfriend 😎❤🔥👌everyone)
October 12, 2022
Review for Still Here Without You
I was lucky enough to “Beta” read the complete draft before it was in the final editing stage. I have had a lot of time to be able to formulate a review for this book, yet I waited until release day….to the last possible moment.
There are books that you read that are good…there are books that are great, but then there are books….characters…stories….emotions that stick with you well after you close the book or shut down the kindle.
I have tried to figure out at length what it is about Joel and Delilah that has impacted me so much and it is really very simple….they are real. These are characters in a book that go through real emotions, real mistakes and real life. The story of Joel and Delilah is special because it was something we could all so easily connect with.
Joel and Delilah are frenemies (like that kindergarten pull your hair type of frenemies) at first sight. Joel’s snark and Delilah’s feistiness are never lost throughout the book. Even when they are in turmoil they still shine through. They have this way that only they communicate that even when tearing each other’s hearts apart they are one joke away from a Delilah eye roll or Joel smirk.
This journey they share is about the strength of a relationship that is formed between two imperfect people living in an imperfect world and working on perfecting a love that they have never felt before. There are major obstacles that get in their way, but the strength that is shown by both separately is what ultimately helps them to fight for a relationship that on paper looks impossible.
I can say that Katherine just keeps getting better and better with her story telling and isn’t scared to make her characters go through some things to be able to have incredible character growth.
I loved getting a glimpse at the characters we have already met and ones that we have yet to get a story about. The Heartstrings crew and world are so easy to love and get lost in. I can’t wait to see where she takes us next!
I was lucky enough to “Beta” read the complete draft before it was in the final editing stage. I have had a lot of time to be able to formulate a review for this book, yet I waited until release day….to the last possible moment.
There are books that you read that are good…there are books that are great, but then there are books….characters…stories….emotions that stick with you well after you close the book or shut down the kindle.
I have tried to figure out at length what it is about Joel and Delilah that has impacted me so much and it is really very simple….they are real. These are characters in a book that go through real emotions, real mistakes and real life. The story of Joel and Delilah is special because it was something we could all so easily connect with.
Joel and Delilah are frenemies (like that kindergarten pull your hair type of frenemies) at first sight. Joel’s snark and Delilah’s feistiness are never lost throughout the book. Even when they are in turmoil they still shine through. They have this way that only they communicate that even when tearing each other’s hearts apart they are one joke away from a Delilah eye roll or Joel smirk.
This journey they share is about the strength of a relationship that is formed between two imperfect people living in an imperfect world and working on perfecting a love that they have never felt before. There are major obstacles that get in their way, but the strength that is shown by both separately is what ultimately helps them to fight for a relationship that on paper looks impossible.
I can say that Katherine just keeps getting better and better with her story telling and isn’t scared to make her characters go through some things to be able to have incredible character growth.
I loved getting a glimpse at the characters we have already met and ones that we have yet to get a story about. The Heartstrings crew and world are so easy to love and get lost in. I can’t wait to see where she takes us next!
October 11, 2022
❤ Thank you so much for this ARC in exchange for an honest review ❤
After reading When Nothing Else Matters, I knew I needed a book for Joel. He’s such a beautiful soul and Katherine thank the God, delivered. I can tell you SHWY is my favorite of the Heartstring series so far.
You can read SHWY as a stand alone, but I recommend you reading the previous books first because the whole friend group and other couples give you so much more emotions and depth if you have read about them.
IF you have read WNEM or ANS you already have met Joel, roommate and best friend of Dylan. If not you will learn fast that he’s such an amazing friend, always there for you, having a good advice when you need it. But he isn’t happy. He did a big mistake in his past and lost the one woman he loved.
The first ~ 55% of the book are telling the story of how Delilah and Joel meet, how they became friends, and how they agreed to become friends with benefits. Uh the tension and banter between these two *chef kiss, we also learn what Joel did…. And oh my Joel. My heart broke a bit for him, but at the same time (don’t hate me, I love him too) he deserved it a bit. But then the real heartache starts, will Delilah forgive Joel? Can they both trust each other with the secrets they have?
The last 10% were really hard to read, OF COURSE there was this one thing that needed to happen, and I swear for 2 seconds Katherine was my enemy number one 🤣🤣🤣. But only for 2 seconds afterwards, I cried my eyes out because the finish line of this book was just everything I needed it to be! 🤧❤😭
I can’t wait to see who is next on Katherine’s list. 🤩🤗
Read if you like:
- friends-with-benefits-to-lovers
- second chance love
- college romance
- HEA
After reading When Nothing Else Matters, I knew I needed a book for Joel. He’s such a beautiful soul and Katherine thank the God, delivered. I can tell you SHWY is my favorite of the Heartstring series so far.
You can read SHWY as a stand alone, but I recommend you reading the previous books first because the whole friend group and other couples give you so much more emotions and depth if you have read about them.
IF you have read WNEM or ANS you already have met Joel, roommate and best friend of Dylan. If not you will learn fast that he’s such an amazing friend, always there for you, having a good advice when you need it. But he isn’t happy. He did a big mistake in his past and lost the one woman he loved.
The first ~ 55% of the book are telling the story of how Delilah and Joel meet, how they became friends, and how they agreed to become friends with benefits. Uh the tension and banter between these two *chef kiss, we also learn what Joel did…. And oh my Joel. My heart broke a bit for him, but at the same time (don’t hate me, I love him too) he deserved it a bit. But then the real heartache starts, will Delilah forgive Joel? Can they both trust each other with the secrets they have?
The last 10% were really hard to read, OF COURSE there was this one thing that needed to happen, and I swear for 2 seconds Katherine was my enemy number one 🤣🤣🤣. But only for 2 seconds afterwards, I cried my eyes out because the finish line of this book was just everything I needed it to be! 🤧❤😭
I can’t wait to see who is next on Katherine’s list. 🤩🤗
Read if you like:
- friends-with-benefits-to-lovers
- second chance love
- college romance
- HEA
October 6, 2022
Tropes: frenemies to lovers / college romance / sports romance / sassy cheerleader & swoony tutor / second chance romance
Sports romance will never be my number one trope, BUT, when done right - it's so great and so special to me! And this book was just that - SPECIAL!
This story follows Joel & Delilah who meet in college after a really sweet meet-cute. While tutoring Delilah, the two develop a friends-with-benefits arrangements and the rest is history, until something major happens and the two part ways, opening the pathway for a really wonderful second chance romance.
Katherine took us through the wringer with Joel & Delilah's story. I really felt for them both and it broke my heart to see all they had to go through until they could finally find their happiness again. But it was so worthwhile and, as a result, we saw such wonderful growth for these two.
It was a really beautiful story where the romance felt authentic. You could see the developing emotions between two friends with benefits grow so organically. Also THIS is how you do a second chance romance - by SHOWING us their history so we can connect with the characters and root for their HEA when they meet again!
One thing I will say is with every book, Katherine just adds another chilli to it! So you're in for a real treat with this one in that respect.
If you like a sports/second chance swoony romance in a college setting - PLEASE PICK THIS UP ASAP!
Sports romance will never be my number one trope, BUT, when done right - it's so great and so special to me! And this book was just that - SPECIAL!
This story follows Joel & Delilah who meet in college after a really sweet meet-cute. While tutoring Delilah, the two develop a friends-with-benefits arrangements and the rest is history, until something major happens and the two part ways, opening the pathway for a really wonderful second chance romance.
Katherine took us through the wringer with Joel & Delilah's story. I really felt for them both and it broke my heart to see all they had to go through until they could finally find their happiness again. But it was so worthwhile and, as a result, we saw such wonderful growth for these two.
It was a really beautiful story where the romance felt authentic. You could see the developing emotions between two friends with benefits grow so organically. Also THIS is how you do a second chance romance - by SHOWING us their history so we can connect with the characters and root for their HEA when they meet again!
One thing I will say is with every book, Katherine just adds another chilli to it! So you're in for a real treat with this one in that respect.
If you like a sports/second chance swoony romance in a college setting - PLEASE PICK THIS UP ASAP!
October 9, 2022
Still Here Without You by Katherine Jay.
Thank you Katherine for the ARC. You did it again!!
Some books just make you feel everything and this was one of those for me. Joel and Delilah will latch on to your heart and never let go. Trust, they are that forever type of love that you never stop fighting for. This story is witty and full of fun banter. The teasing and sass from both them elevates this book. Just great energy. But don’t get it twisted-your heart will break and it will hurt. But just hold on because the best things in life are worth waiting for. This book is perfection. Don’t wait-read it immediately.
*Some behind the scenes notes: 35% in-OMG this man!! 49% in-WHAT ARE YOU DOING TO ME. Noooo!!!! Bonus for the 30STM reference. 5 f****** stars man. 5 f****** stars.
“We can pretend whatever you want. In fact, for today, let’s pretend that we have forever.”
“If she hates me, that’s fine. It means she feels something. I don’t know when, or how, but Delilah, you better be ready. I’m coming for you.”
“What did you see?”
“You. And only you.”
"You are what's best for me. Loving you, fighting with you, being your friend. I want it all. Whatever we have to face, we face it together. We can do it."
“Let me fight for you.”
“I choose you. It will always be you. Every. Single. Time.
“Bound by love not blood.”
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🔥🔥🔥
Description:
Delilah Campbell is the most infuriating woman I’ve ever met. And yet, I can’t seem to stay away.
She’s sassy, opinionated, strong-willed, and so beautiful, it hurts.
We’re meant to be. Soul mates, end game. She’s it for me, and I know she feels the same. Only she’s fighting it.
She’s fighting us.
Sure, I messed up. In some ways, we both did. But there’s more to it. Something I’m missing.
Something I’m desperate to find out.
Question is…what if I’m too late?
Thank you Katherine for the ARC. You did it again!!
Some books just make you feel everything and this was one of those for me. Joel and Delilah will latch on to your heart and never let go. Trust, they are that forever type of love that you never stop fighting for. This story is witty and full of fun banter. The teasing and sass from both them elevates this book. Just great energy. But don’t get it twisted-your heart will break and it will hurt. But just hold on because the best things in life are worth waiting for. This book is perfection. Don’t wait-read it immediately.
*Some behind the scenes notes: 35% in-OMG this man!! 49% in-WHAT ARE YOU DOING TO ME. Noooo!!!! Bonus for the 30STM reference. 5 f****** stars man. 5 f****** stars.
“We can pretend whatever you want. In fact, for today, let’s pretend that we have forever.”
“If she hates me, that’s fine. It means she feels something. I don’t know when, or how, but Delilah, you better be ready. I’m coming for you.”
“What did you see?”
“You. And only you.”
"You are what's best for me. Loving you, fighting with you, being your friend. I want it all. Whatever we have to face, we face it together. We can do it."
“Let me fight for you.”
“I choose you. It will always be you. Every. Single. Time.
“Bound by love not blood.”
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🔥🔥🔥
Description:
Delilah Campbell is the most infuriating woman I’ve ever met. And yet, I can’t seem to stay away.
She’s sassy, opinionated, strong-willed, and so beautiful, it hurts.
We’re meant to be. Soul mates, end game. She’s it for me, and I know she feels the same. Only she’s fighting it.
She’s fighting us.
Sure, I messed up. In some ways, we both did. But there’s more to it. Something I’m missing.
Something I’m desperate to find out.
Question is…what if I’m too late?
October 12, 2022
Joel and Delilah…what an an emotional whirlwind, rough loops, highs, lows, merry go round, bumpy roller coaster of a ride. Whew! This is a Second chance, tutor/student, cheerleader, emotional story. These two, fall so hard in love but have so much inner battles and growing up to do to finally realize how much they need and want to be together. While I wanted to crawl into the book and put some sense into these two, gahhhh, like wake up Del! Wake up Joel! Get yourselves together!
We met Joel in Dylan and Summer’s story and I just wanted Joel’s story so bad. He fell in love and he fell hard. The whole back and forth wasn’t really likable but, it fit their personalities and I understood, they had their reasons. Looking forward to the next one!
We met Joel in Dylan and Summer’s story and I just wanted Joel’s story so bad. He fell in love and he fell hard. The whole back and forth wasn’t really likable but, it fit their personalities and I understood, they had their reasons. Looking forward to the next one!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
October 11, 2022
Still Here Without You is an emotional romance with a lot of angst. The relationship between Joel and Delilah starts with intense attraction mixed with antagonism, but soon they become friends, then involved, and though they have feelings for each other, Delilah breaks it off to become "just friends" again and moves away for her job. The misunderstandings that arise out of their long-distance relationship and an unexpected betrayal severely impact the intense connection between the two. But when Delilah returns home, a sudden accident brings things to a head between them.
I loved the main characters, and the conflicts in their lives and their relationship were believable in the context of the story. Two powerful personalities impacted by hidden trauma in the past and miscommunications in the present made for a pretty intense novel. The secondary characters made good foils and lightened the atmosphere some, the pacing is good, and the story flows well. Readers who are fans of tempestuous up-and-down romantic fiction will love this one!
I loved the main characters, and the conflicts in their lives and their relationship were believable in the context of the story. Two powerful personalities impacted by hidden trauma in the past and miscommunications in the present made for a pretty intense novel. The secondary characters made good foils and lightened the atmosphere some, the pacing is good, and the story flows well. Readers who are fans of tempestuous up-and-down romantic fiction will love this one!
October 12, 2022
Oh Joel and Delilah! Their story was so emotional. The angst, the banter, the love! All present throughout the book. You never want to be that couple that’s right for each other but the timing isn’t right, but it’s life so they had to go through so many obstacles to finally find their happiness. I was a lovely book!
October 1, 2022
This story is just perfect. 5 stars without a doubt, and I love this one even more than the first book.
"Still here without you" gave me all the feels. I loved the banter and the meet cute. I could feel the pain and the heartbreak. There are frustrating moments, when everything seems hopeless. But I loved the fact that the plot wasn't predictable and you didn't know where the story is going. Especially the end is so incredibly heartwarming and beautiful , I cannot wait for No. 3. I'm all up for it Katherine 😊 bring it on.
As for Joel, he is perfect. I really fell hard for him. Del is an strong and sassy FMC, you will just love her. If you read "When nothing else matter", you'll love to hear that Summer and Dylan are back ❤️
"Still here without you" gave me all the feels. I loved the banter and the meet cute. I could feel the pain and the heartbreak. There are frustrating moments, when everything seems hopeless. But I loved the fact that the plot wasn't predictable and you didn't know where the story is going. Especially the end is so incredibly heartwarming and beautiful , I cannot wait for No. 3. I'm all up for it Katherine 😊 bring it on.
As for Joel, he is perfect. I really fell hard for him. Del is an strong and sassy FMC, you will just love her. If you read "When nothing else matter", you'll love to hear that Summer and Dylan are back ❤️
January 7, 2024
I was completely hooked in by Joel after reading When Nothing Else Matters and could not wait to read his and Delilah’s story and wow! what a story it is.
Delilah is sassy and Joel is so cocky it made for some of the best banter! The move from frenemies to lovers is unavoidable but it’s not that easy for them. When things go wrong it’s with a bang!
I got to a part of the story and I could not put the book down until I finished it. They go through so much and the timing just adds to the heartache. Thankfully after all the angst they find their way back to each other and a HEA.
It was great seeing the characters from the previous books, Ain’t No Sunshine and When Nothing Else Matters and I’d recommend reading both before this book. It’s a great friendship group and I’m looking forward to reading more of their stories.
Delilah is sassy and Joel is so cocky it made for some of the best banter! The move from frenemies to lovers is unavoidable but it’s not that easy for them. When things go wrong it’s with a bang!
I got to a part of the story and I could not put the book down until I finished it. They go through so much and the timing just adds to the heartache. Thankfully after all the angst they find their way back to each other and a HEA.
It was great seeing the characters from the previous books, Ain’t No Sunshine and When Nothing Else Matters and I’d recommend reading both before this book. It’s a great friendship group and I’m looking forward to reading more of their stories.
October 12, 2022
4.5 stars
"Still Here Without You" is the second book on the Heartstrings Series, written by Katherine Jay. After Dylan and Summer, we dive into the relationship between Delilah and Joel. Delilah is not your typical cheerleader, she's so much more, and Joel was not ready for her to crash into his world. Joel is studying to be a child psychologist and is usually very insightful regarding everyone else's behavior. However, when it comes to how he handles the obstacles of his relationship, the path he is on will only lead to self-destruction.
This book broke me... The angst and the emotional charge of both main characters was so intense. I could actually feel Joel's and Delilah's heartache. This "Heartstrings Series" by Katherine Jay definitely lives up to its name! I also love the theme of this series of naming the book after a song, first with "Nothing Else Matters" and now with "Here Without You" by Three Doors Down. It's such a minor detail, but I think it's super creative. Especially given the weight of the song in the course of the story. When Joel finally sang it, it was like I was there... I can't explain the feeling, you have to either trust me or read it yourself (why not both?!). I also loved that the other supporting characters were a major part of the storyline, so I can't wait to get my hands on the next book!
"Still Here Without You" is the second book on the Heartstrings Series, written by Katherine Jay. After Dylan and Summer, we dive into the relationship between Delilah and Joel. Delilah is not your typical cheerleader, she's so much more, and Joel was not ready for her to crash into his world. Joel is studying to be a child psychologist and is usually very insightful regarding everyone else's behavior. However, when it comes to how he handles the obstacles of his relationship, the path he is on will only lead to self-destruction.
This book broke me... The angst and the emotional charge of both main characters was so intense. I could actually feel Joel's and Delilah's heartache. This "Heartstrings Series" by Katherine Jay definitely lives up to its name! I also love the theme of this series of naming the book after a song, first with "Nothing Else Matters" and now with "Here Without You" by Three Doors Down. It's such a minor detail, but I think it's super creative. Especially given the weight of the song in the course of the story. When Joel finally sang it, it was like I was there... I can't explain the feeling, you have to either trust me or read it yourself (why not both?!). I also loved that the other supporting characters were a major part of the storyline, so I can't wait to get my hands on the next book!
October 11, 2022
5 Stars
2 Chili Peppers
Tropes
Friends with Benefits
Frenemies to Lovers
Second Chance Love
College Romance
Student/Tutor
Time Jump
Dual POV
You came back. You're standing in front of me; I know you want me, and yet, I'm still here without you
First of all, the banter in this book is some of the BEST I have ever read. The back-and-forth between Delilah and Joel is beyond amazing. Delilah is so sassy and Joel gives it right back. I loved it. I laughed, I got angry, and I got teary-eyed. This is seriously a rollercoaster of emotions. And I felt every single one.
Second, their chemistry and connection were so strong. They kept getting pulled back together, and you could feel that in Katherine's writing.
Third, this book is amazing. It's not just a standard frenemies to lovers, it is about growth, it is about two people who are in love but make mistakes, go through hard times and learn from them. Seriously, Katherine is an amazing author. She makes you feel every single emotion. She makes it feel like you are in the same space as these characters and are watching this play out in front of you.
I loved how we saw people from the other books, including Dylan and Summer, and how their relationship has grown.
I can honestly say, I did not want this book to end. I am so sad it is over!!
Thank you Katherine for this ARC. I cannot wait to see what else you have planned!
2 Chili Peppers
Tropes
Friends with Benefits
Frenemies to Lovers
Second Chance Love
College Romance
Student/Tutor
Time Jump
Dual POV
You came back. You're standing in front of me; I know you want me, and yet, I'm still here without you
First of all, the banter in this book is some of the BEST I have ever read. The back-and-forth between Delilah and Joel is beyond amazing. Delilah is so sassy and Joel gives it right back. I loved it. I laughed, I got angry, and I got teary-eyed. This is seriously a rollercoaster of emotions. And I felt every single one.
Second, their chemistry and connection were so strong. They kept getting pulled back together, and you could feel that in Katherine's writing.
Third, this book is amazing. It's not just a standard frenemies to lovers, it is about growth, it is about two people who are in love but make mistakes, go through hard times and learn from them. Seriously, Katherine is an amazing author. She makes you feel every single emotion. She makes it feel like you are in the same space as these characters and are watching this play out in front of you.
I loved how we saw people from the other books, including Dylan and Summer, and how their relationship has grown.
I can honestly say, I did not want this book to end. I am so sad it is over!!
Thank you Katherine for this ARC. I cannot wait to see what else you have planned!
October 1, 2022
guys i loved this book so much. i read it in under 24 hours(: joel and delilah absolutely captured my heart in this one. what i love about katherine's writing is that her characters just make your heart so happy and the stories have the perfect amount of romance, angst, and laughs. i love the romantic relationships as much as the friendships in this series. they just make my heart so happy.
joel and delilah really did what it took to fight for their relationship even though it was so hard on both of them at times. i just wanted to climb into the book and give them both a massive hug. they give such soul mate vibes my heart was just aching for them. this is a spoiler free review so i will not be elaborating but i was literally throwing my kindle and running around my house while reading this one. i also cried, aggressively...more than once. katherine knew what she was doing with this whole but, but the angst in this one wow. i ate it up. i was on the edge of my seat.
if you loved dylan you'll love joel. he's just as swoony and will steal your heart straight away. delilah, oh my gosh this woman. i adore her as well. she was really relatable to me with how she thinks about certain things and shes so stubborn! but she is so so strong. joel and delilah together is just absolute fireworks! their chemistry and banter is top tier!
the dylan and summer bits had me squealing, i love them and their friendship with joel the most ever. i highly recommend this read! this is for you if you love an angsty, new adult, right person wrong time, frenemies to lovers romance. thank you katherine for the arc of this amazing, amazing book!
catch up with dylan & summer's story- when nothing else matters available on amazon or KU now!
SHWY releases on october 12th <3
joel and delilah really did what it took to fight for their relationship even though it was so hard on both of them at times. i just wanted to climb into the book and give them both a massive hug. they give such soul mate vibes my heart was just aching for them. this is a spoiler free review so i will not be elaborating but i was literally throwing my kindle and running around my house while reading this one. i also cried, aggressively...more than once. katherine knew what she was doing with this whole but, but the angst in this one wow. i ate it up. i was on the edge of my seat.
if you loved dylan you'll love joel. he's just as swoony and will steal your heart straight away. delilah, oh my gosh this woman. i adore her as well. she was really relatable to me with how she thinks about certain things and shes so stubborn! but she is so so strong. joel and delilah together is just absolute fireworks! their chemistry and banter is top tier!
the dylan and summer bits had me squealing, i love them and their friendship with joel the most ever. i highly recommend this read! this is for you if you love an angsty, new adult, right person wrong time, frenemies to lovers romance. thank you katherine for the arc of this amazing, amazing book!
catch up with dylan & summer's story- when nothing else matters available on amazon or KU now!
SHWY releases on october 12th <3
October 14, 2022
Ok so I needed a few days to process after reading this book because Katherine I’m lost for words. I knew you would come at me with all the feels but I was not expecting the pure angst I got with this book. Wanting to take my time because I’ve been desperate to read it for months but I just couldn’t the way Katherine hooked me in I couldn’t put it down forgetting all my responsibilities until I finished.
Joel was a character from the other books that I was intrigued by, we have been drip fed a little bit about him and Delilah and their relationship. Joel is the perfect man until he lets his emotions and his mind run away with him and after a stupid decision he is left a hollow man putting himself through his own purgatory.
Delilah is such a strong woman trying to reach her dreams, never giving up and when Joel unexpectedly becomes the man she wants to tell all her hopes and dreams to and he will stop at nothing to help her get there. But after receiving news which breaks her she suddenly doesn’t have Joel there anymore to guide her through it causing her to give up on what she wants most, Joel.
This is the perfect wrong place at the wrong time, angsty college romance which will stay with me for a long time, the heartbreak was so real I cried right along with the characters Delilah and Joel deserved their HEA it takes some time to get them there but when they do it is utterly perfect!!
Joel was a character from the other books that I was intrigued by, we have been drip fed a little bit about him and Delilah and their relationship. Joel is the perfect man until he lets his emotions and his mind run away with him and after a stupid decision he is left a hollow man putting himself through his own purgatory.
Delilah is such a strong woman trying to reach her dreams, never giving up and when Joel unexpectedly becomes the man she wants to tell all her hopes and dreams to and he will stop at nothing to help her get there. But after receiving news which breaks her she suddenly doesn’t have Joel there anymore to guide her through it causing her to give up on what she wants most, Joel.
This is the perfect wrong place at the wrong time, angsty college romance which will stay with me for a long time, the heartbreak was so real I cried right along with the characters Delilah and Joel deserved their HEA it takes some time to get them there but when they do it is utterly perfect!!
June 18, 2024
(I received an ARC for this book)
trigger warnings will be at the bottom of this review, to avoid spoilers
We met Joel during Ain’t No Sunshine, so my love for him started long before this book! We start in the “before”. Before Cory and Nate, before Dylan and Summer. Delilah needs a tutor, and as luck would have it, Joel has decided to prove Dylan wrong, to prove he can be a tutor. Because of course Joel sees that as a challenge. From the very beginning, Joel enjoys teasing Delilah. There’s an instant undeniable connection, even if it is a little frenemies at the start. But is it though? Delilah wants to push him away, but she also wants to know everything possible about him. He becomes her first thought. Who she wants to tell everything to, experience everything with. No matter what, Joel is supportive, without hesitation. Her dreams and her achievements are meant to be celebrated, and he was always the first one to celebrate her, no matter what. He protects her, shields her, fights for her, even if it means fighting with her. It was always about her. Joel never wanted her to feel pressured, or to add stress to her life. He just wanted her, any way she would allow it. They both denied the obvious while trying not to get too deep, even though they were buried in each other from the beginning. She doesn’t want him to be held back, he doesn’t want to go through life without her. Delilah thinks she’s doing the right thing. She thinks she’s protecting the both of them. Can’t fault her for that, but MAN does it hurt. Life has a funny way of doing things…and well…I cried…a lot. I was a mess. Just reading and ugly crying. And I know a LOT of that had to do with how much I love these characters. How much they mean to me. It was an ugly heartbreaking road, but we got there in the end. Just thinking about the amount of heartbreak that could have been prevented only brings me more heartbreak.
My Favorite Quotes:
• “Delilah? My eyes are up here.”
• “Once we step into this room, it’s just us. In this moment.
• “Show me how wild you can make me.”
• “I want this girl here to remember me.”
• “It will never be enough.”
• “For today, let’s pretend that we have forever.”
• “I said ours. Stop trying to steal my shit.”
• “I’m still here without you. I’m not perfect. I know that.”
• “Let me fight for you.”
• “But you need a friend first.”
• “It will always be you. Every. Single. Time.”
• “There’s only one you.”
7/10 Dirty Birdy
6/10 Friends to Lovers
9/10 Second Chance
6/10 Tearjerker
9/10 Series
This is my review for Ain’t No Sunshine
This is my review for When Nothing Else Matters
This is my review for It Had To Be Us
This is my review for Truly Madly Deeply Mine
This is my review for A Sky Full of Stars
Trigger Warnings include:
infertility, motorcycle accident (on page), surprise pregnancy (not MFC)
trigger warnings will be at the bottom of this review, to avoid spoilers
We met Joel during Ain’t No Sunshine, so my love for him started long before this book! We start in the “before”. Before Cory and Nate, before Dylan and Summer. Delilah needs a tutor, and as luck would have it, Joel has decided to prove Dylan wrong, to prove he can be a tutor. Because of course Joel sees that as a challenge. From the very beginning, Joel enjoys teasing Delilah. There’s an instant undeniable connection, even if it is a little frenemies at the start. But is it though? Delilah wants to push him away, but she also wants to know everything possible about him. He becomes her first thought. Who she wants to tell everything to, experience everything with. No matter what, Joel is supportive, without hesitation. Her dreams and her achievements are meant to be celebrated, and he was always the first one to celebrate her, no matter what. He protects her, shields her, fights for her, even if it means fighting with her. It was always about her. Joel never wanted her to feel pressured, or to add stress to her life. He just wanted her, any way she would allow it. They both denied the obvious while trying not to get too deep, even though they were buried in each other from the beginning. She doesn’t want him to be held back, he doesn’t want to go through life without her. Delilah thinks she’s doing the right thing. She thinks she’s protecting the both of them. Can’t fault her for that, but MAN does it hurt. Life has a funny way of doing things…and well…I cried…a lot. I was a mess. Just reading and ugly crying. And I know a LOT of that had to do with how much I love these characters. How much they mean to me. It was an ugly heartbreaking road, but we got there in the end. Just thinking about the amount of heartbreak that could have been prevented only brings me more heartbreak.
My Favorite Quotes:
• “Delilah? My eyes are up here.”
• “Once we step into this room, it’s just us. In this moment.
• “Show me how wild you can make me.”
• “I want this girl here to remember me.”
• “It will never be enough.”
• “For today, let’s pretend that we have forever.”
• “I said ours. Stop trying to steal my shit.”
• “I’m still here without you. I’m not perfect. I know that.”
• “Let me fight for you.”
• “But you need a friend first.”
• “It will always be you. Every. Single. Time.”
• “There’s only one you.”
7/10 Dirty Birdy
6/10 Friends to Lovers
9/10 Second Chance
6/10 Tearjerker
9/10 Series
This is my review for Ain’t No Sunshine
This is my review for When Nothing Else Matters
This is my review for It Had To Be Us
This is my review for Truly Madly Deeply Mine
This is my review for A Sky Full of Stars
Trigger Warnings include:
infertility, motorcycle accident (on page), surprise pregnancy (not MFC)
October 17, 2022
This one was extremely terrible. Hero was douchebag and he had so many times of excuse of how sorry he was, how guilty he was, but huh?? He still slept around and f***ing around even though he loves heroine???
He had a stupid ONS with OW, and when she told him she was pregnant, he just believed her, and didn’t do anything to prove.
CAN YOU BELIEVE IT???
And then he thought he was ready to be a father and let this woman in his life. He was being prepared to be a father, which was so so reckless!!!
So, so many times mentioned he can slept around because they didn’t have a relationship, but if H and h didn’t had a relationship, what a normal relationship should look like???
I am tired of repeating how bull**t a Hero like this was. AND, AND THIS doormat heroine, ohhhh, no one can save a heroine if she was such an apology-accepted-easily woman.
He had a stupid ONS with OW, and when she told him she was pregnant, he just believed her, and didn’t do anything to prove.
CAN YOU BELIEVE IT???
And then he thought he was ready to be a father and let this woman in his life. He was being prepared to be a father, which was so so reckless!!!
So, so many times mentioned he can slept around because they didn’t have a relationship, but if H and h didn’t had a relationship, what a normal relationship should look like???
I am tired of repeating how bull**t a Hero like this was. AND, AND THIS doormat heroine, ohhhh, no one can save a heroine if she was such an apology-accepted-easily woman.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
October 12, 2022
• ARC Review •
Still Here Without You by Katherine Jay
Ratings:
⭐️: 5/5
🌶: 4/5
Quote: “I’m falling for Delilah. I went and did the one thing we said we wouldn’t do. Basically, I’m fucked.”
Tropes: frenemies to lovers, sassy heroine, possessive hero, second chance, college romance
——————————————————
I have been in love with Joel since WNEM. Absolutely in love with him and obsessed with him. And after reading this book? That definitely hasn’t changed. If anything, the feeling has grown stronger. He was absolutely amazing. As with all the perfect book boyfriends, he had his faults, and he definitely made mistakes. But his character growth was absolutely phenomenal and beautiful to watch.
Now, Delilah. I loved her so much. When we got a sneak peek of her in WNEM, I immediately messaged Katherine to make sure that she was worthy of my Joel (aka the LOML). And boy, did Katherine do a fantastic job of creating and developing Delilah. She was grounded, loyal, sweet, cared way more than she let on, and was absolutely deserving of every bit of happiness that we can give her. My heart and soul ached for her and everything that she went through. She also had to grow through this story, and I loved every minute of it.
Which brings me to the overall story. This book, like everything Katherine writes, was absolutely amazing. I couldn’t put it down. The Delilah and Joel’s journey was: beautiful, sweet, heartbreaking, nerve racking, and undeniable. Their connection was tangible and lively. Their banter had a constant smile on my face. But, the moments I absolutely loved? The serious ones. Where Joel’s presence alone could get Delilah to talk about her deep, dark truths before she’d even realized she’d opened her mouth. Another beautiful story by Katherine that I can’t recommend enough!!
Still Here Without You by Katherine Jay
Ratings:
⭐️: 5/5
🌶: 4/5
Quote: “I’m falling for Delilah. I went and did the one thing we said we wouldn’t do. Basically, I’m fucked.”
Tropes: frenemies to lovers, sassy heroine, possessive hero, second chance, college romance
——————————————————
I have been in love with Joel since WNEM. Absolutely in love with him and obsessed with him. And after reading this book? That definitely hasn’t changed. If anything, the feeling has grown stronger. He was absolutely amazing. As with all the perfect book boyfriends, he had his faults, and he definitely made mistakes. But his character growth was absolutely phenomenal and beautiful to watch.
Now, Delilah. I loved her so much. When we got a sneak peek of her in WNEM, I immediately messaged Katherine to make sure that she was worthy of my Joel (aka the LOML). And boy, did Katherine do a fantastic job of creating and developing Delilah. She was grounded, loyal, sweet, cared way more than she let on, and was absolutely deserving of every bit of happiness that we can give her. My heart and soul ached for her and everything that she went through. She also had to grow through this story, and I loved every minute of it.
Which brings me to the overall story. This book, like everything Katherine writes, was absolutely amazing. I couldn’t put it down. The Delilah and Joel’s journey was: beautiful, sweet, heartbreaking, nerve racking, and undeniable. Their connection was tangible and lively. Their banter had a constant smile on my face. But, the moments I absolutely loved? The serious ones. Where Joel’s presence alone could get Delilah to talk about her deep, dark truths before she’d even realized she’d opened her mouth. Another beautiful story by Katherine that I can’t recommend enough!!
October 13, 2022
Captivating story from the first line to the last one. Emotional like hell with crazy ups and downs. It’s a HEA but the road to that is very difficult with lots of bumps. At one point I cried, it was heart-wrenching. I thought WNEM is good, damm guys read this one you’ll fall in love again and again with the characters at every new development. It’s freaking marvellous to see how Katherine described the emotions and the thought process of the characters.
Writing is beautiful which made the hard parts bearable. The flirtatious banter between Joel and Delilah is the heart of the entire story. They are made for each other, soulmates for sure. Life never gives you easy, it’ll make you work for the things you want the most in your life, and Joel & Delilah had to go through a lot to be there. I really appreciate how the emotions are shown, no one was wrong in their thinking about their suffering but a simple conversation must have avoided everything.
I hilariously hate reading emotional stories where I know I’ll cry but I like to torcher myself because I know those stories are the best stories I’ll read. The story which can get a reaction out of a reader is the BEST and definitely meant for more and more people to read. So please go read this one. You’ll love it.
Writing is beautiful which made the hard parts bearable. The flirtatious banter between Joel and Delilah is the heart of the entire story. They are made for each other, soulmates for sure. Life never gives you easy, it’ll make you work for the things you want the most in your life, and Joel & Delilah had to go through a lot to be there. I really appreciate how the emotions are shown, no one was wrong in their thinking about their suffering but a simple conversation must have avoided everything.
I hilariously hate reading emotional stories where I know I’ll cry but I like to torcher myself because I know those stories are the best stories I’ll read. The story which can get a reaction out of a reader is the BEST and definitely meant for more and more people to read. So please go read this one. You’ll love it.
October 13, 2022
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️/5
Holy smokes what a rollercoaster ride!!
I had been anxiously awaiting Joel's story since I fell in love with his character in Summer & Dylan's book.
I had a feeling it wasn't going to be a fluffy read. The first two books weren't but I don't think I was expecting so much heartbreak underneathe.
They have an instant chemistry. The tension is there. And their banter! They deem it a frenemies with benefits. And although there is a seriousness to their relationship its never defined. It was full of ups and downs, twists and turns that you don't see coming until they are right there in front of you. An internship in Paris. A picture that is misinterpreted. A drunken mishap. A hospital trip. A pregnancy. Broken hearts. Lack of communication. The push and pull. More misinterpretations, An accident. But as bumpy as their roads is to happily ever after and as frustrated as I was at times (mostly with Delilah even though part of me understood her reasonings, but occasionally with Joel as well!) this book is my favorite out of all 3.
I'm so happy that after all the went through Joel and Delilah finally got their happily ever after! 🤍
Holy smokes what a rollercoaster ride!!
I had been anxiously awaiting Joel's story since I fell in love with his character in Summer & Dylan's book.
I had a feeling it wasn't going to be a fluffy read. The first two books weren't but I don't think I was expecting so much heartbreak underneathe.
They have an instant chemistry. The tension is there. And their banter! They deem it a frenemies with benefits. And although there is a seriousness to their relationship its never defined. It was full of ups and downs, twists and turns that you don't see coming until they are right there in front of you. An internship in Paris. A picture that is misinterpreted. A drunken mishap. A hospital trip. A pregnancy. Broken hearts. Lack of communication. The push and pull. More misinterpretations, An accident. But as bumpy as their roads is to happily ever after and as frustrated as I was at times (mostly with Delilah even though part of me understood her reasonings, but occasionally with Joel as well!) this book is my favorite out of all 3.
I'm so happy that after all the went through Joel and Delilah finally got their happily ever after! 🤍
October 6, 2022
Still Here Without You
By: Katherine Jay
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Synopsis :
Delilah Campbell is the most infuriating woman I’ve ever met. And yet, I can’t seem to stay away.
She’s sassy, opinionated, strong-willed, and so beautiful, it hurts.
We’re meant to be. Soul mates, end game. She’s it for me, and I know she feels the same. Only she’s fighting it.
She’s fighting us.
Sure, I messed up. In some ways, we both did. But there’s more to it. Something I’m missing.
Something I’m desperate to find out.
Question is…what if I’m too late?
Review:
Katherine did it again! Still Here Without You is the 3rd book in the Heartstrings Series, preceding Ain’t No Sunshine & When Nothing Else Matters. Joel and Delilah’s story is much different than the other two and I absolutely love that. I love the duel pov because it gives you insight on each of the characters, who they are, how they feel, etc. I felt like I could feel the emotions in this book as if they were my own. Once I picked it up I couldn’t put it down. I also really liked how she did the first half of the book in the past and the second half of the book in the present giving us the background of their story that we have seen bits and pieces of in the other 2 books. 10/10 recommend! It will not disappoint!
By: Katherine Jay
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Synopsis :
Delilah Campbell is the most infuriating woman I’ve ever met. And yet, I can’t seem to stay away.
She’s sassy, opinionated, strong-willed, and so beautiful, it hurts.
We’re meant to be. Soul mates, end game. She’s it for me, and I know she feels the same. Only she’s fighting it.
She’s fighting us.
Sure, I messed up. In some ways, we both did. But there’s more to it. Something I’m missing.
Something I’m desperate to find out.
Question is…what if I’m too late?
Review:
Katherine did it again! Still Here Without You is the 3rd book in the Heartstrings Series, preceding Ain’t No Sunshine & When Nothing Else Matters. Joel and Delilah’s story is much different than the other two and I absolutely love that. I love the duel pov because it gives you insight on each of the characters, who they are, how they feel, etc. I felt like I could feel the emotions in this book as if they were my own. Once I picked it up I couldn’t put it down. I also really liked how she did the first half of the book in the past and the second half of the book in the present giving us the background of their story that we have seen bits and pieces of in the other 2 books. 10/10 recommend! It will not disappoint!
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