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Love and Chaos #3

Until August

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I fell in love with two men. But fate would decide which one I could keep.

When I met Cruz Vega, it was love at first sight.
He was my forever and always, my port in the storm, my one true love.
Everything was so perfect.
Until a cruel twist of fate robbed us of a future.

Now, I was navigating uncharted territory.
Merely surviving without really living.

Until August Harper.
The hot-as-hell, tattooed chef swaggered into my restaurant and took over my kitchen.
Then, piece by piece, he claimed my heart, too. That wasn’t enough for him, though. He wanted all of me.

But as everyone knows… when you play with fire, you get burned.

And we are going up in flames.

470 pages, Kindle Edition

Published January 6, 2023

570 people are currently reading
3534 people want to read

About the author

Emery Rose

18 books1,796 followers
Emery Rose is a former New Yorker currently living in London, and loves creating angsty, emotionally-charged stories with all the swoons, spice, and a guaranteed happily ever after.

When she's not busy crafting love stories with swoon-worthy, flawed heroes and the strong heroines who bring them to their knees or immersed in a good book, you can find her experimenting with new recipes, listening to her vinyl collection, or traveling the globe in search of sunshine and the perfect wave.

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Profile Image for ❥ KAT ❥ Kitty Kats Crazy About Books.
2,626 reviews10.9k followers
January 14, 2023
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MY REVIEW AND OTHERS can also be found on my blog:
╰┈➤KITTY KATS CRAZY ABOUT BOOKS

ღ 🆄🅽🆃🅸🅻 🅰🆄🅶🆄🆂🆃 ღ Is s Second Chance Friends-to-Lovers stand-alone romance book by Emery Rose 'Spoken in Dual Perspectives.' In this you'll meet Nicola & August Harper

'𝑺𝒐𝒎𝒆 𝒘𝒐𝒖𝒍𝒅 𝒔𝒂𝒚 𝑰 𝒘𝒂𝒔 𝒍𝒖𝒄𝒌𝒚 𝒕𝒐 𝒉𝒂𝒗𝒆 𝒇𝒐𝒖𝒏𝒅 𝒍𝒐𝒗𝒆, 𝒏𝒐𝒕 𝒐𝒏𝒍𝒚 𝒘𝒊𝒕𝒉 𝒐𝒏𝒆 𝒃𝒖𝒕 𝒕𝒘𝒐 𝒂𝒎𝒂𝒛𝒊𝒏𝒈 𝒎𝒆𝒏.
𝑰𝒕 𝒇𝒆𝒍𝒕 𝒎𝒐𝒓𝒆 𝒍𝒊𝒌𝒆 𝒂 𝒄𝒖𝒓𝒔𝒆 𝒕𝒉𝒂𝒏 𝒂 𝒃𝒍𝒆𝒔𝒔𝒊𝒏𝒈. 𝑩𝒆𝒄𝒂𝒖𝒔𝒆 𝑰 𝒄𝒐𝒖𝒍𝒅 𝒐𝒏𝒍𝒚 𝒌𝒆𝒆𝒑 𝒐𝒏𝒆 𝒊𝒇 𝑰 𝒍𝒆𝒕 𝒕𝒉𝒆 𝒐𝒕𝒉𝒆𝒓 𝒈𝒐.
𝑨𝒏𝒅 𝑰 𝒍𝒐𝒗𝒆𝒅 𝒕𝒉𝒆𝒎 𝒃𝒐𝒕𝒉.

This wrung out a few sneaky tears that snuck up on me out of nowhere, some parts were emotional, others parts were beautiful. I loved their second chance at living life to the fullest, to finding love again.

This came full circle, one stolen kiss so many moons ago, '𝒀𝒐𝒖 𝒘𝒆𝒓𝒆 𝒕𝒉𝒆 𝒓𝒂𝒏𝒅𝒐𝒎 𝒈𝒖𝒚 𝒘𝒉𝒐 𝒔𝒕𝒐𝒍𝒆 𝒎𝒚 𝒇𝒊𝒓𝒔𝒕 𝒌𝒊𝒔𝒔 𝒘𝒉𝒆𝒏 𝑰 𝒘𝒂𝒔 𝒔𝒊𝒙𝒕𝒆𝒆𝒏' to moving on in life, 𝑾𝒆 𝒘𝒆𝒓𝒆 𝒃𝒐𝒕𝒉 𝒕𝒓𝒚𝒊𝒏𝒈 𝒕𝒐 𝒓𝒆𝒃𝒖𝒊𝒍𝒅 𝒐𝒖𝒓 𝒍𝒊𝒗𝒆𝒔 𝒂𝒏𝒅 𝒇𝒊𝒈𝒖𝒓𝒆 𝒐𝒖𝒕 𝒉𝒐𝒘 𝒕𝒐 𝒎𝒐𝒗𝒆 𝒐𝒏' and reconnecting again many years later.

New beginnings, and saying goodbye, a slow burn which sunk its claws into my heart and never let go.

I don't know if it was just me but I found it hard connecting with our heroine Nicola, maybe a wee bit too judgmental, the hard hitting questions which raised an eyebrow or two, hypocritical in some ways? I can't really put my finger on it.

August had been knocked down a peg or two which had humbled him, which in my eye made him a better man, he'd had it all until one bad decision to save the ones he loved had him losing everything in a blink of an eye. So he had a lot of time to make up for. His character was easy to connect with, I loved watching his growth, the slow bond with his son.

                  
Profile Image for ♡Gabi♡ [life & work is chaotic hiatus].
221 reviews363 followers
January 22, 2024
4.25 ✰

𝑫𝒆𝒔𝒑𝒊𝒕𝒆 𝒕𝒉𝒆 𝒔𝒉𝒊𝒕𝒕𝒚 𝒕𝒊𝒎𝒊𝒏𝒈 𝒂𝒏𝒅 𝒄𝒊𝒓𝒄𝒖𝒎𝒔𝒕𝒂𝒏𝒄𝒆𝒔, 𝑰 𝒌𝒏𝒆𝒘 𝒊𝒏 𝒎𝒚 𝒈𝒖𝒕 𝒕𝒉𝒂𝒕 𝑵𝒊𝒄𝒐𝒍𝒂 𝒂𝒏𝒅 𝑰 𝒃𝒆𝒍𝒐𝒏𝒈𝒆𝒅 𝒕𝒐𝒈𝒆𝒕𝒉𝒆𝒓.
𝑻𝒉𝒊𝒔 𝒘𝒐𝒎𝒂𝒏 𝒘𝒂𝒔 𝒑𝒓𝒂𝒄𝒕𝒊𝒄𝒂𝒍𝒍𝒚 𝒎𝒂𝒅𝒆 𝒇𝒐𝒓 𝒎𝒆. 𝑺𝒉𝒆 𝒘𝒂𝒔 𝒔𝒐 𝒑𝒆𝒓𝒇𝒆𝒄𝒕 𝒇𝒐𝒓 𝒎𝒆 𝒕𝒉𝒂𝒕 𝑰 𝒄𝒐𝒖𝒍𝒅𝒏’𝒕 𝒊𝒎𝒂𝒈𝒊𝒏𝒆 𝒂 𝒍𝒊𝒇𝒆 𝒘𝒊𝒕𝒉 𝒂𝒏𝒚𝒐𝒏𝒆 𝒃𝒖𝒕 𝒉𝒆𝒓.
𝑭𝒂𝒍𝒍𝒊𝒏𝒈 𝒊𝒏 𝒍𝒐𝒗𝒆 𝒘𝒊𝒕𝒉 𝒉𝒆𝒓 𝒘𝒂𝒔 𝒑𝒓𝒐𝒃𝒂𝒃𝒍𝒚 𝒕𝒉𝒆 𝒆𝒂𝒔𝒊𝒆𝒔𝒕 𝒕𝒉𝒊𝒏𝒈 𝑰’𝒅 𝒆𝒗𝒆𝒓 𝒅𝒐𝒏𝒆 𝒊𝒏 𝒎𝒚 𝒆𝒏𝒕𝒊𝒓𝒆 𝒇𝒖𝒄𝒌𝒊𝒏𝒈 𝒍𝒊𝒇𝒆. 𝑨𝒏𝒅 𝑰 𝒘𝒂𝒔𝒏’𝒕 𝒑𝒓𝒆𝒑𝒂𝒓𝒆𝒅 𝒕𝒐 𝒍𝒆𝒕 𝒉𝒆𝒓 𝒈𝒐 𝒘𝒊𝒕𝒉𝒐𝒖𝒕 𝒂 𝒇𝒊𝒈𝒉𝒕.
“𝑰’𝒍𝒍 𝒘𝒂𝒊𝒕 𝒇𝒐𝒓 𝒚𝒐𝒖,” 𝑰 𝒔𝒂𝒊𝒅. “𝒀𝒐𝒖’𝒓𝒆 𝒘𝒐𝒓𝒕𝒉 𝒊𝒕, 𝑵𝒊𝒄𝒐𝒍𝒂. 𝑵𝒐𝒕𝒉𝒊𝒏𝒈 𝒉𝒂𝒔 𝒆𝒗𝒆𝒓 𝒇𝒆𝒍𝒕 𝒕𝒉𝒊𝒔 𝒓𝒊𝒈𝒉𝒕. 𝑺𝒐 𝒈𝒐 𝒅𝒐 𝒘𝒉𝒂𝒕𝒆𝒗𝒆𝒓 𝒚𝒐𝒖 𝒏𝒆𝒆𝒅 𝒕𝒐 𝒅𝒐. 𝑨𝒏𝒅 𝒘𝒉𝒆𝒏 𝒚𝒐𝒖’𝒓𝒆 𝒓𝒆𝒂𝒅𝒚, 𝑰’𝒍𝒍 𝒃𝒆 𝒘𝒂𝒊𝒕𝒊𝒏𝒈 𝒇𝒐𝒓 𝒚𝒐𝒖.”

well, this one packed quite the emotional punch and left me sobbing multiple times, but what else is new? 🥹

august and nicola's story is the truest example of how love conquers all. this heart-breaking, but also heart-healing story, these characters, the angst, the vulnerability, the depth of emotions shown, the rawness of it all, and the handling of grief, made for one poignant, emotionally-wrecking, and immersive read.

to see august and nicola both get their second chance at life in such different, but profound ways: finding themselves again, while also learning to forgive and have grace and compassion for themselves and toward others, all while re-learning to embrace the here and now and re-discovering that they deserve love and happiness, was written and handled so well and beautifully.

i was rooting for them every step of the way through their respective journeys.

i love these two sm. 😭💘

this series was a rollercoaster ride of heartbreak, angst, and pain, but with so much love, romance, and special moments, tension and heat, great side characters and found family aspects, and best of all the most hard-won and deserving HEAs. i loved it! 🥰

⋆ ˚。⋆୨♡୧⋆ ˚。⋆⋆ ˚。⋆୨♡୧⋆ ˚。⋆⋆⋆ ˚。⋆୨♡୧⋆ ˚。⋆⋆ ˚。⋆୨♡୧⋆ ˚。⋆⋆⋆ ˚。

’Love and Chaos’ series
౨ৎWilder Love #1 review: Wilder Love - 4.5 ✰
౨ৎSweet Chaos #2 review: Sweet Chaos - 3.5 ✰
Profile Image for SP.
572 reviews122 followers
January 7, 2023
Do you know when you read something so good… that it almost feels euphoric… you are high on life because you feel every emotion so deeply… the words just touch you and take you away to another place. This is how Until August makes me feel…..

I’m glad I went into this book with an open mind. No preconceived notions on how I wanted it to end, and how I expected this story to go. I was hooked by the first word, and until the very last. The writing is so captivating, and thought provoking. It deals with loss, heartbreak, but learning that who you once were isn’t who you are now, that you change and grow, and it’s okay to find happiness again. Nicola may be one of the most relatable heroines to me, I understand the feelings she felt of feeling guilty being happy, under certain circumstances. She was such a raw and real character, she wasn’t perfect she struggles, and learn. She’s one of the most beautifully selfless characters I’ve been able to read about, and she’s definitely becoming a top favorite.

I don’t necessarily want to go too in depth on the hero, because I do think it benefitted me going into this one blindly, so my review wont mention the hero by name. But the hero, was exactly what the heroine needed at the moment they needed them, they helped her grow, while she helped him grow in return. They each lifted the other up, they understood each other in ways they no one else ever could and ever had before. Their love was undeniable, it’s the type of love that you feel in your bones. This story is honestly able to achieve what few stories ever have (for me). It’s a story that takes you away to a new place, and makes you forget about life’s burdens for a while. My whole heart was in this story while reading, when the characters cried I cried, when they loved I loved. It’s Simply stunning.

The author does touch on subjects that you don’t see touched on often, if ever. It’s not only written extremely well, especially since it it’s pretty sensitive material for many. But the way it’s written with extreme care and as if every word was thought out. It’s definitely a unique story, that I honestly couldn’t compare to anything else.

Yes the story had me feeling everything, but the world the author has created added just as much yo the story, you can picture every scene so vividly. The story takes place in a town called Costa Del Ray, which is set in California. The vibe of the city just heightens the overall experience. This is a world that if you have read this author, you have visited before, and it was honestly like coming home to familiar friends. I really hope we get more from the love and chaos world.

Until August, is one of the most beautiful journeys I have ever gone on, it reminded me why I love romance so much, it’s the definition of what I look for anytime I start a book. It’s heartbreakingly beautiful with characters that you feel like you know on a personal level. I definitely recommend this story, because you are doing yourself a disservice by not reading it.

P.s
Don’t worry the author will put your pieces back together, and you will feel whole again. You may just go through a few boxes of tissue in the process.
Profile Image for Mali Mor ❤️ The Romantic Blogger.
454 reviews624 followers
February 26, 2023
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check out my bookstagram: https://www.instagram.com/the_romanti...

They met at the farmers market and after taking pistachios, he also took her first kiss. It was a short meeting, but unforgettable one… 🧡

📚 "Love is only for the brave. Or the very foolish. Turns out I was both." 📚

Now, 16 years later, August Harper is trying to rebuild his life after a mistake that caused him to lose everything. His Michelin star restaurant closed, his wife remarried, and his 7-year-old son Sage doesn't even know who he is. August will do anything to be a part of his son's life, so he moves to the Costa del Rey and runs into the girl from his past, Nicola. 💥

Nicola Benedetti Vega had a passion for food, wine and life. But in the last two years, getting out of bed has become a struggle, even cooking no longer makes her happy. She struggles with pain and guilt and even her favorite restaurant is in danger. She just needs someone who could put the sun back in the sky…. 🙏
Then she decides to hire August as her sous chef. And maybe they are perfect for each other, but like when they first met… their timing is all wrong. 🧡

📚 "Some would say I was lucky to have found love, not only with one but two amazing men.
It felt more like a curse than a blessing.
Because I could only keep one if I let the other go. And I loved them both." 📚

Let me just say that… a hot chef is sexier than any rockstar!!!!! 🔥👨‍🍳🔥
Emery Rose has taken us back to the world of "Love and Chaos" with a new book (which can be read as a single, but why would you?😜) with ALL THE FEELS. It was a fantastic story that I didn't want to stop reading (I really skimped on every page). I cried, laughed and lived the plot along with the characters. 🧡

The chemistry between Nick and August was amazing. I could feel their attraction and longing. I loved seeing these two broken characters get a second chance and find happiness… I enjoyed meeting all the characters from the previous books and I really loved that the book made me think about what's really important. 🙏

📚 "Life is a risk. But if you're not taking risks, you're not really living. And what's the alternative?" 📚

I loved the struggles of a father trying to reconnect with his son, but I missed his struggles as an ex con – because everything went quite easily for him… plus, their meeting in the past was so short, that I find it strange that it was so memorable *for him* (Compared to Nicola, a teenage girl who gets her first kiss from the bad boy, which makes perfect sense for her to remember him forever) 😂😂😂

All in all, this is a second chance at love between two lost and broken souls who are trying to figure out how to move on from a broken heart, together and separately. 🙏
There is a lot of emotion in this book, so much raw pain, love, hope…. and also my favorite trope: GUY FALLS FIRST! *sigh* 😍
You can read it as a stanalone, but I highly recommend the previous ones: Wilder Love & Sweet Chaos. 🧡🧡🧡

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📖 ᖴOᒪᒪOᗯ ᗰE Oᑎ IᑎᔕTᗩGᖇᗩᗰ: https://www.instagram.com/the_romanti...

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💕 לקריאת הסקירה בעברית, כנסו לבלוג: https://books-romance.com/ 💕
Profile Image for NiCoLeTa E. {Addicted To Books}.
1,555 reviews82 followers
January 7, 2023
***4,5 "Pistachio Guy & Honey Bun!!!" stars***



“Everyone deserves a second chance.”

It was bittersweet to return back into Costa Del Rey, a place that I have loved so much in the past...
Oh no, don't you worry, this is a complete standalone book, but I would definitely recommend the previous books as well...
We had met Nicola and Cruz back in "Sweet Chaos" and they were what we have called couple goals... They were simply adorable, but years later their story is becoming something different...
August Harper is coming into their lives and everything Nicola used to know is changing...
Do you believe in second chances???

"Why had I opened my door to temptation?
Because that's what August was."


Nicola believes in 'till death do us part and Cruz is the love of her life...
Together they had built the perfect life and Nicola will honor her vows until the end of time...
Until August Harper....
August is coming like a hurricane into her life and her restaurant and he is changing all of her beliefs...
But August wasn't an unknown man... He was the man that had stolen Nicola's first kiss when she was sixteen years old...
Now, Nicola is struggling between her past and her presence...
Can her heart love two men at the same time???

"You're not so easy to forget."
Neither are you, August Harper. Neither are you.

August Harper is stucked in the past and his guilts...
He is coming to Costa Del Rey to be closer to his son after five long years that he had to stay away from him...
What he never imagined was to regain his passion for food along Nicola's side and not only that... but to fall for an emotionally unavailable woman...
He wants all of her, but Nicola is torned between him and Cruz... Can he let her go or will he fight to become her first and only???

"I had a feeling that falling in love with her would be easy, and losing her would hurt like hell."

I loved this story very much...
It was a bittersweet story with many entertaining and sweet moments, but with many raw and sad moments as well...
Nicola was an amazing creature and August was intense and explosive... I liked the connection between them... I liked that their love for cooking bound them together...
I liked how loyal Nicola was... I liked how determined August was...
I just loved everything about this complicated story...

"Some would say I was lucky to have found love, not only with one but two amazing men. It felt more like a curse than a blessing. Because I could pnly keep one if I let the other go. And I loved them both."

I know what you are thinking right now, but please, stop thinking it!!!
You just have to step into this story with an open mind, cause this was a very complicated story...
A story that had the ability to break your heart and not for the reasons you are currently thinking...
Nicola and August are holding a special place to my heart, alongside Shane, Remy, Dylan and Scarlett...
Honestly, I can not recommend this series enough!!!
It was sooo good to be back into this world, even though my heart had been broken into million tiny pieces!!!

"Life is a risk. But if you're not taking risks, you're not really living. And what's the alternative?"

**I received an ARC for the exchange of an honest review**
Profile Image for Jenifer Briggs.
1,519 reviews191 followers
January 8, 2023
I honestly had no idea what to expect with this book, but this series has been so epic, so I knew I just needed to trust Emery and everything would turn out fine. And it did, but MAN, the journey getting there? Some motherfucker better stop breaking in my house just to chop onions. There were tears EVERYWHERE.

Nicola has had two loves in her life; an epic one in her past, and an epic one now. The only issue is that her past and present are colliding, and she doesn't know which one to let go of, or is she can let go at all. She's in so much pain, but she was slowly brought to life by August and his cocky, charming way. He also needed a second chance at life, and with his son that doesn't know him. He had a hard hand dealt to him and he chose a path that he thought was the best at the time, but really, it tore his world apart. But with the help of Nicola, he is learning how to live again. (And yes, I totally just sand this Foo Fighter song in my head as I typed that!) These two are just so beautiful together! Their connection, the banter, the swoon, the heat, the angst, the pain, omg it was so freaking good. ER truly outdid herself here!!

This was the first book I read this year, and it went right into my list of my top reads of the year. Do yourselves a favor and one click this beautiful book now!!

**I'm not going to spoil anything that happens, but just know this is not a love triangle, nor does Nicola cheat on anyone. (Yeah, I saw that review. Read this book to know what *really happens!)

****************************************

First book I've read this year, and it's going in on my top favorite books of 2023 already. Omfg, this is so heartbreakingly beautiful. Tears were definitely shed, and I wouldn't have it any other way. Emery really outdid herself with this one!!

*Full RTC

**I received an ARC of this book and these are my honest opinions **
Profile Image for Romancing the Reader.
1,258 reviews525 followers
September 28, 2023
My first five-star review of the year! Wooooo so exciting!

📚𝗧𝗿𝗼𝗽𝗲: Love triangle-ish, angsty romance, chef romance

📖 𝗦𝘆𝗻𝗼𝗽𝘀𝗶𝘀: Nicola had been completely sure she would love Cruz her entire life, until their future was derailed completely. But at her lowest, in walks August. He’s a hot shot chef currently navigating his own life lows, and her new souls chef. From the start, their chemistry is clear. But how can you fall in love when you’re in love already?

🌟 𝗥𝗲𝘃𝗶𝗲𝘄: Five stars, all the feels from start to finish… can’t rave about it more.

Many of my followers know I’ve been looking for a solid chef book. Not “hometown boy takes over family restaurant” chef… not baker… just a honest to goodness hardcore chef and love in the face of that cut throat industry. And Emery Rose gave that to me here.

But there was so much more to love about this book. August and Nicola were so human and messy, it was impossible not to get sucked in. It had all sorts of emotions throughout, and I found myself reading with a smile or frown or anger plastered to my face. Add to that a solid spice level, and I’m set.

For those of you worried about the love triangle piece of this… no spoilers but you’ll be fine.

𝗙𝗶𝗻𝗮𝗹 𝗥𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗻𝗴: 5/5 ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

𝗦𝗽𝗶𝗰𝗲 𝗥𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗻𝗴: 3.5/5 🌶🌶🌶

🆓️ on KU

𝑰 𝒓𝒆𝒄𝒆𝒊𝒗𝒆𝒅 𝒂𝒏 𝑨𝑹𝑪 𝒐𝒇 𝒕𝒉𝒊𝒔 𝒃𝒐𝒐𝒌 𝒊𝒏 𝒆𝒙𝒄𝒉𝒂𝒏𝒈𝒆 𝒇𝒐𝒓 𝒂𝒏 𝒉𝒐𝒏𝒆𝒔𝒕 𝒓𝒆𝒗𝒊𝒆𝒘.
Profile Image for Jenny Lovez Bookz.
665 reviews151 followers
January 13, 2023
I was totally expecting a love triangle, which this is not but that's ok! This was an emotional story about second loves and second chances. It's been a while since I've read the other 2 books in this series so I forgot who some of the characters were but it was nice to get back into this world. I found some parts a little confusing at times because everyone had a lot going on. but still a great emotional read. I would've liked more of Sage, especially in the epilogue.
Profile Image for The Romantic Rush Blog.
2,643 reviews966 followers
January 7, 2023
Prepare for your heart to shatter, but also for it to heal! What a mesmerizing and impactful story. Emotionally affecting, creatively inspired, and resplendently beautiful yet bittersweet, Emery Rose has written a story with so much vulnerable tenderness and heart that you’ll find it deeply burrowing into your soul. The angst, the captivating characters, the heart-wrenching storyline, the emotively rich themes and poignant prose all create an emotionally immersed read. This is bold and courageous storytelling- it’s real, it's raw, it’s brilliant. I have not felt a story so deeply in a long while- and my heart still beats for these characters and their journey.

THis is so much more than a love story between two people. More than anything, this is a story about finding yourself and forgiving yourself. A story about redemption and grief. Grieving the people we once were, grieving the life we thought we’d live, and finding the courage to embrace ourselves JUST where we are right now. The courage to accept the path we’re on, even if it’s not the one we expected- to lean into the adversity and hardship we face because those are the moments we find the marrow of our being. This is a story about accepting your flaws and mistakes as part of yourself….but also being accountable for them. To those we hurt. And for healing yourself.

While the blurb may lead you to believe this is a love triangle, and to a certain extent it is, I implore you to go into this story with an open mind, even if you already know these characters from their appearances in other books. This is not the triangle you anticipate, not the love story you’re expecting…and that’s the point. Emery is a writer who has a deep integrity in delivering the TRUTH of the human experience. Real love isn’t always easy, it’s certainly not neat, and it’s not always clear. Loving is like our humanity- it’s messy, challenged by mistakes. And even if it’s endless and unconditional, it’s never linear. But love is TRUE, and the human heart is incredibly resilient…and our love is never finite, there’s room in our heart for loving more than one.

These characters are everything that makes Emery the queen of emotionally touching and heart touching love stories- they are REAL, relatable, radically imperfect, and like so many of us, a bit lost in the messiness of living. Haunted by their pasts, drowning in the dauntingness of trying to move forward. Sometimes all it takes though is a jolt, a meaningful reminder that we are still breathing, that we can change and grow, that there is still HOPE. Emery gives us a powerful and bittersweet reminder that second chances aren’t always guaranteed, and that the bravest and most important thing we can do is just live every moment, every breath to our fullest. That one step forward. The courage to take the risk to open the heart- to find the will to find ourselves, even when we’re lost.

I won’t say much about the plot, because this is best to experience knowing nothing. Avoid spoilers- though you’ll see the dynamic very quickly, so you don’t have to wait to understand just what is at stake. Open your heart and mind- LISTEN to these characters, even if you might not have made their same choices. Because this is less a story about the mistakes they make and more about two shattered souls trying to figure out how to move forward, to find hope from despair, from pain, from uncertainty. And this is not an easy story- these are two broken characters. Both are drowning in the impact, on them and others, of hardships they’ve faced. Guilt, trauma, loss, failure. But at the core of this story is love. Romantic love, friendship, familiar love…and the hardest love of all, loving yourself. Finding ourselves, forgiving ourselves, LOVING ourselves hurts- and the path isn’t always clear or easy. But what a beautiful and magnificent journey it is- what an important one. And here, what a memorable and empowering one. Grab all the Kleenex folks, there IS an HEA, a very clear and definitely and fulfilling one, but Until August reminds us what makes that journey worth taking- LOVE.
Profile Image for Tammy .
1,022 reviews119 followers
January 6, 2023
5 Chef’s Kiss Stars!

Hello major book hangover! Damn you, Emery Rose! It’s 3:10 in the morning, waaaaay past my bedtime, and you’ve left me a snotty mess! I don't know how my hubby didn't wake up with all my sniffling and tears.

Lordy. Lordy. I’m not sure my soul will recover from this book any time soon.

It's been a hot minute since a book's had me feeling something other than boredom. Something other than exasperation. Something other than over it. Something other than why the hell am I still reading this drivel. For me, books like Until August are few between. And when I come across one, I'm reminded of why I'm a reader. I'm reminded of why I love to immerse myself between the pages and lose track of time. I'm reminded of why I fall so hard for fictional characters. I'm reminded of why just one more chapter and then I'll get some sleep is a myth. LOL

Thank you, Emery Rose, for reminding me why I love reading. Thank you for introducing me to August and Nicola. Nic and August were EVERYTHING. Their journey was EVERYTHING. Their love was EVERYTHING. Their heartbreak was EVERYTHING. Their second chance was EVERYTHING. They were exactly what I didn't know I needed. Nic and August owned me, individually and as a couple.

I absolutely adored how real and raw these two were. I adored how flawed they were. How honest they were in all of their feelings/actions/reactions and the repercussions that came with those emotions. I adored the fact that they didn't hide nor run from those repercussions. They were very much what you see is what you get. Nic and August faced their internal and external issues head on. They weren't riddled with lack of communication, avoidance, or inside drama. Which I'm thankful for because I don't have the patience for drawn out contrived drama.

With that said, my favorite part of the whole book was August. He was Grade A book boyfriend material. Ladies and gents, prepare because our hero is about to sweep you off your feet. August was so loving and protective, a man who wasn't afraid to show his feelings and struggles. I fell head over heels for this man. He quickly climbed my list of favorites. I loved his patience and understanding with Nic's dilemma. I loved how he gave her the space that she needed without any guilt or added stress. I loved how much he loved his son and fought for him. I could continue waxing poetic about why this man rocked my fictional world, but I need to leave something for all of you to discover. :)

Until August was a poignant love story about friendship and second chances. However, this wasn't your typical second chance romance. So don't go in with any preconceived notions. Set what you are used to aside, step out of the box, and enjoy this novel/journey/lesson on life for what it is. A story about life giving you another chance at fighting your demons, forgiveness, righting your wrongs, achieving your desires, and yes, finding love in the most unexpected places.

This is my second book by Ms. Rose, and it's made me fall completely in love with her writing. I'm excited to check our more of her backlist, and anything else she produces in the future.

description
Profile Image for AJ.
3,247 reviews1,070 followers
January 6, 2023
“Everyone deserves a second chance.”

4.5 stars!


Emery Rose has taken us back to her Love and Chaos world with a new standalone story that brings all the feels. A second chance at love story for two lost and broken souls who are both trying to figure out how to move on from heartache.

In Sweet Chaos, we met Scarlett’s fabulous best friend, Nicola. It’s now eight years later, and Nicola is a shadow of who she once was. She has been through heartache and trauma, she’s struggling with devastating grief and guilt, and she feels broken. Not only that, but she’s lost her joy for her work as a chef, and her beloved restaurant is struggling.

August is trying to rebuild his life after one bad decision saw him lose everything. His restaurant is gone, his wife is remarried, and his seven year old son has no idea who he is. He wants nothing more than to be part of his son’s life again, so he’s moved to the California coast to be near him, and just happens to run into a girl from his past - Nicola. He was 18 and she was 16, it was a one-off encounter, but it was Nicola’s first kiss and neither has forgotten the other.

Their lives become entangled when August starts working at Nicola’s restaurant as her sous chef. Professionally, they are a great team, and working together side by side every day they grow close, opening up and sharing about their situations and developing feelings for each other that neither are really in a position to act on. Their lives are messy and complicated, and a little bit heartbreaking. There’s every reason in the world to keep their distance from each other… except they can’t.

“I don’t want to want you,” he gritted.
“The feeling is mutual.” My fingers curled around the nape of his neck. “Kiss me.”

There is wonderful chemistry between these two, and the sense of anticipation waiting for something to happen is fantastic! I could feel their attraction, the sense of longing and how much they want each other. You know they’re going to be amazing together, and I loved watching them finally take a step into more.

God, we were both such a mess.
Two people who had lost too much and couldn’t afford to lose more trying to keep each other afloat.
It was a disaster waiting to happen.
But if we went down, we’d go down together.
There was no way I would let him go.

Despite the complications of their situations, their coming together feels so easy, and even though they’re both dealing with so much, there is still a sense of fun between them. August still has confidence and swagger, charm, and a wicked sense of humour. And the man is sexy as hell. He brings Nicola back to life, and though they try to keep things strictly physical, it soon becomes clear that there is so much more between them than either of them expected.

This wasn’t a no-strings hookup. It wasn’t a fling. It went much deeper.
And that was when it hit me with the force of a killer wave.
I was falling. But so was Nicola.

It’s a beautiful love story, and I loved watching August and Nicola come together. But they are both still dealing with so much, and before they can move forward, they have to let go of the past once and for all. It’s hard, and it’s heartbreaking, and the angst and emotion had me in tears. But even though it hurt, it feels right, it feels sensible, I could understand why and how it all happened the way it did, and I thought they handled everything so maturely.

Falling in love was probably the easiest thing I’d ever done in my entire fucking life. And I wasn’t prepared to let her go.

There’s a fantastic bunch of side characters that are there with them through the journey. Characters from the first two book in the series make an appearance, and I loved seeing them again, and there are some new people introduced who absolutely shine.

This is a gorgeous read, and I loved watching these two broken characters get their second chance and find happiness once again. There is a happy ending, and an epilogue that left me grinning and satisfied, and I really loved this story.

4.5 stars.

An Advanced Review Copy was generously provided by the author in exchange for an honest review.

Profile Image for Sarah~Book Obsession Confessions .
1,307 reviews88 followers
January 6, 2023
4.5 𝑺𝒆𝒄𝒐𝒏𝒅 𝒄𝒉𝒂𝒏𝒄𝒆 𝑺𝑻𝑨𝑹𝑺

I really 𝐋𝐎𝐕𝐄𝐃 the 𝐦𝐮𝐥𝐭𝐢𝐥𝐚𝐲𝐞𝐫𝐞𝐝 nature of the second chance aspect in this story. It is a second chance romance in a few ways, and second chance opportunity in life for both August and Nicola. I found their story very beautiful, heart wrenching and soul inspiring.
August is 𝐄𝐕𝐄𝐑𝐘𝐓𝐇𝐈𝐍𝐆 I want in a book boyfriend. I love that he’s had a flawed past, that he admits his faults and mistakes while still being a strong, confident man. He’s crazy attractive in every way.
His interactions with his young son, Sage were so emotional, I felt his pain, his fears and his joy. I may have teared up a few times when there was a particularly emotional scene between them.
Nicola is a sympathetic heroine, she’s loyal, strong and sensitive. She’s self sacrificing, I understood that and respected it, while still hoping for her to change.
It would have been easy for her to come across as a victim, weak and in need of help. I think it was written in a way that was realistic to her struggles without making her a victim.
Both characters are very talented chefs, this aspect was great as an atmospheric backdrop for their romance and it helped define their strong personalities for me. Chef’s are notoriously perceived as perfectionists and demanding, I liked the push and pull between these two strong, similar types of people. Plus, they shared their passion and creativity with each other, it was a very special part of their journey together that really made their connection feel special.
This is not a simple romance, it has so many facets to it as do the characters. It’s not a love triangle in a traditional sense at all. It’s not taboo or forbidden in my opinion, it is complicated to say it simply. There are very real obstacles to them being a couple. “Slightly looked down upon” is my feeling as opposed to taboo/forbidden.
I connected with August much more strongly than Nicola. I liked them as a couple, I liked their interactions very much and their chemistry was really hot. Their interesting conversations and their interactions were fun, very emotional and sensual.
For some reason his character was just…more for me, more sympathetic and I felt I understood him more deeply. I didn’t connect strongly with her, however I liked her, respected her a lot and I still enjoyed the story very much.
I was rooting for their HEA. I wanted it for both of them.
I loved the cameo appearances from characters from previous books in the series.
I love this seaside, surf town and its intriguing characters. It’s written very vividly and it’s like a strong secondary character in the story and series. I could almost feel and smell the ocean breeze and hear the waves crashing.
This was a heart satisfying, 𝒎𝒂𝒕𝒖𝒓𝒆, 𝒅𝒆𝒆𝒑𝒍𝒚 𝒆𝒎𝒐𝒕𝒊𝒐𝒏𝒂𝒍 and very engaging story.
Profile Image for Ana | SheSaidYestoBooks.
1,996 reviews152 followers
August 28, 2023
2.5 stars ⭐️

Initially I thought the second chance Romance was going to be about August’s wife. It felt like he still had feelings for her in the very beginning of the book. And to be honest, I wish it was her. I really struggled to connect with the female main character, she was incredibly difficult to like! And the fact that she was still married… 😐🫤😑

✓ Second Chance
✓ Friends to Lovers
✓ Workplace
✓ CHEATING
✓ Dual POV

Until August is the third book in Love and Chaos series, but can be read as a standalone.
Profile Image for Jenn the Readaholic.
2,178 reviews70 followers
December 31, 2022
I’m warning you now. You WILL need tissues. There are sad tears to be shed. There are frustrated ones, too. And above all, there are happy tears waiting to fall also. Even if tinged with a bit of melancholy, happy tears win the day here. You’ll also want to get comfortable because you won’t want to put this down for anything until Nicola and August find their happiness and bid us adieu.

This book may be the best way to end one year and begin another. No lie. Nicola has been through the wringer and she needs to find a way out of the doldrums she’s lived in for a while. August has been through hell and made it through, just to find that the one person he breathed for has forgotten he ever existed. And the funniest thing is that the chance meeting between Nicola and August isn’t their first one. It just takes them a little bit to remember why that familiarity is there.

I can’t spoil this one. I just can’t. But I promise that you’ll love the ride. August and Nicola are both learning how to best navigate their lives. And they’re doing one heck of a job together until it all comes crashing down. Since neither thought they’d want or be capable of forever, they both feel the shattering of hearts when life invades and demands to be dealt with. There’s a lot of grieving to be done. And thinking. And dealing with so many emotions. But when two souls are meant to be, sometimes they find their way back to each other. So trust this journey.

Yeah, you’ll really dislike a person or two, and then you’ll come to truly like them also. For the most part with one, anyway…and for the whole part with a few others. And then you’ll recognize some names from other books and feel that “hey, I know them” rush because you e remembered another series by this author. And you’ll hope for some peace and ability to forgive with another. Then you’ll absolutely adore how Nicola and August make it all better in the end. I swear it.
Profile Image for Tammy.
875 reviews41 followers
January 6, 2023
**Absolutely Breathtaking - 5+ stars**

I have been trying to decide where to start with my review
of Until August and Absolutely Breathtaking was all that I
wanted to start with.

This is a love triangle, but don’t go into thinking that you
know what is going to happen, because you will be completely
wrong. I loved August and Nicola and how their relationship
developed naturally. My heart broke for what the characters
had to go through and trust me, many tears were shed.

This was one of my favorite quotes from Until August - “But when you love someone,
you have to know when it’s time to fight for them and when it’s time to set them free.”

I know that we just started 2023, but Until August will go
down as one of my favorite reads of this year!

ARC received from Wordsmith Publicity and these are my honest thoughts about Until August.
Profile Image for Hopelessly Addicted To Books .
3,624 reviews151 followers
January 5, 2023
This book deserves more stars than I can give it. Now I know it's very very early in the year but I know this is going to be one of my top reads of the year please don't judge me until you've read it too.

I read nothing but the synopsis before I went into this book just a few teasers here and there. I am so glad I went in blind it made the impact of the storyline so much greater. It is a study in heartbreak, in friendships, in unconditional love. The characters were written with such depth, they are not young but have lived a life that some may identify with. Every word is deliberate every page I turned had me feeling more emotions than I thought possible. I guarantee you will fall in love with the characters through all their ups and downs you will wish the best for them. My only complaint was that the story ended before I was ready to let them go. I am hopeful we get a little update from them some time in the future so I can check how they are doing. I hope everyone reads this book it is thought provoking but just so beautiful written.
Profile Image for PP's Bookshelf.
2,793 reviews400 followers
December 1, 2023
Here comes the first entry in my top 2023 list. Yes, Until August by Emery Rose is going straight in the list and it's just first day of the year. August and Nicola took me on a breathtaking, soul crunching, overwhelmingly emotional rollercoaster. I expected an angst fest but not this level of heartache. Emery Rose has written an incredibly deep, raw and moving story of love, grief and new beginning. Her writing is exceptional.

I haven't read the Blurb before reading tbe book.But if you one of those choosy people who need to know as much as possible, I can tell you that there is no cheating. There are two men in Nicola's life but the circumstances are beyond your imagination. Just know there is no cheating and no OW drama.

August and Nicola both are complex and exceptionally relatable characters. August has been the c0cky chef at top if his game before he lost everything. His restaurant, his wife ( who is now someone else's wife ) and his son. But he is trying to be a part of his son and he needs stability. A job. A house. And Nicola needs a new sous chef for her restaurant. She has been just living the days without feeling anything. August makes her feel things after a long time. Their lives are messy. So many variables and risks and they are barely holding their pieces together. But that's why they came close together. Two broken hearts finding peace and love again. But it will be a brutal journey. August has to get back his self worth. This tattoed chef made me swoon and break. A man who suffered so much and just fought his whole life to prove himself and found someone to love him unconditionally finally...but can he have her? Nicola is torn. Should she hold on to her husband who is actually gone for a long time? Should she allow a ghost eclipse her new passionate future? The answers are not easy and I felt so fiercely about her struggles. This story has a wonderful secondary characters cast and you won't even know when the time flies. Be ready with your tissues as Until August by Emery Rose is going to shred your heart and then heal it.

I reviewed an early copy voluntarily
Profile Image for Sara Wallace.
262 reviews78 followers
January 4, 2025
This is my first by this author. I saw someone else with similar taste rate this in their top 20 so I decided to give it a try. I think I need just a bit more pull to rare it as 5 stars but overall a great storyline.

When you love two people- one who is barely alive and another a blast from the past, maybe what you needed then is then what you need now. How do you decide?
Profile Image for Kim.
225 reviews28 followers
March 24, 2024
And just like that I’ve finished the series 🫠

As always a great read from Emery, she always has me thinking “WTF” because the way this book started had me shook. But, it kinda felt like there was some missing from this one.

“𝙏𝙝𝙚 𝙪𝙣𝙞𝙫𝙚𝙧𝙨𝙚 𝙝𝙖𝙙 𝙨𝙚𝙣𝙩 𝙢𝙚 𝙩𝙝𝙚 𝙥𝙚𝙧𝙛𝙚𝙘𝙩 𝙢𝙖𝙣 𝙩𝙤 𝙧𝙚𝙢𝙞𝙣𝙙 𝙢𝙚 𝙬𝙝𝙖𝙩 𝙞𝙩 𝙛𝙚𝙡𝙩 𝙡𝙞𝙠𝙚 𝙩𝙤 𝙡𝙤𝙫𝙚 𝙖𝙣𝙙 𝙩𝙤 𝙗𝙚 𝙡𝙤𝙫𝙚𝙙. 𝙏𝙤 𝙧𝙚𝙢𝙞𝙣𝙙 𝙢𝙚 𝙩𝙝𝙖𝙩 𝙩𝙝𝙚𝙧𝙚 𝙬𝙖𝙨 𝙧𝙤𝙤𝙢 𝙞𝙣 𝙢𝙮 𝙝𝙚𝙖𝙧𝙩 𝙛𝙤𝙧 𝙖𝙣𝙤𝙩𝙝𝙚𝙧 𝙜𝙧𝙚𝙖𝙩 𝙡𝙤𝙫𝙚.“

I loved Nicola throughout Sweet Chaos, but August the MMC I just couldn’t connect with, and I feel that’s because I was so hooked on Cruz in the previous book.
Their story was beautiful, two broken souls who come together but they weren’t my favourite 🫣

Did I still cry reading this? Yes. Yes I did. (IYKYK) 🥺




Profile Image for Ana Rita.
1,772 reviews41 followers
January 6, 2023
What better way than to start the year with a romance?
And a romance written by Emery Rose no less.
I haven't read any books from her, but just this one was enough to make me want more.
Her writing is not only sweet and beautiful but also intense and so much more.
Until August is her latest release and explores the lives of Nicola and August.
Nicola thought she had it all, that she had found the love of her life and that she would be happy forever until she wasn't.
After a huge loss, she stopped living. She's just surviving one day at a time, until August...
August is this hunk of a man, full of charisma, tattoos, and swagger.
But behind it, all hide some suffering and pain.
When he enters Nicola's restaurant...
I knew after only reading the blurb, that this book was going to be emotionally draining, but Dayum... I'm still shaking.
What a journey this book was...
Spectacular plot, well written, super engaging, emotional, and intense.
The emotional damage that each character endured is breathtaking.
These two are perfect for each other and it's wonderful to witness them together.
It's amazing to see each of them getting out of their shells of pain and suffering and embracing the chemistry they share.
How can you overcome the pain? How can you forgive yourself?
Some wounds are hard to heal, so you must take a chance and fight. Fight for yourself to be able to fight for your love.
It was wonderful to read this book and I honestly hope I could keep reading and reading.
Loved every single chapter and I couldn't put the book down.
Oh, Emery. What a book this was. I voluntarily reviewed an Advance Reader Copy of this book.

Merged review:

What better way than to start the year with a romance?
And a romance written by Emery Rose no less.
I haven't read any books from her, but just this one was enough to make me want more.
Her writing is not only sweet and beautiful but also intense and so much more.
Until August is her latest release and explores the lives of Nicola and August.
Nicola thought she had it all, that she had found the love of her life and that she would be happy forever until she wasn't.
After a huge loss, she stopped living. She's just surviving one day at a time, until August...
August is this hunk of a man, full of charisma, tattoos, and swagger.
But behind it, all hide some suffering and pain.
When he enters Nicola's restaurant...
I knew after only reading the blurb, that this book was going to be emotionally draining, but Dayum... I'm still shaking.
What a journey this book was...
Spectacular plot, well written, super engaging, emotional, and intense.
The emotional damage that each character endured is breathtaking.
These two are perfect for each other and it's wonderful to witness them together.
It's amazing to see each of them getting out of their shells of pain and suffering and embracing the chemistry they share.
How can you overcome the pain? How can you forgive yourself?
Some wounds are hard to heal, so you must take a chance and fight. Fight for yourself to be able to fight for your love.
It was wonderful to read this book and I honestly hope I could keep reading and reading.
Loved every single chapter and I couldn't put the book down.
Oh, Emery. What a book this was. I voluntarily reviewed an Advance Reader Copy of this book.
Profile Image for Taylor Booksta.ylor.
148 reviews6 followers
January 5, 2023
Thank you Emery Rose and Wordsmith Publicity for the ARC of this book. This is my honest review.

Until August is a beautiful, heartbreaking, magical love story between two people who have each faced some of life’s biggest challenges separately and then somehow find their way back to each other nearly 16 years after they first met. Some might call it serendipity or kismet, but some the events that transpired to bring them back together were anything but magical.
I went into this book with no preconceived notions and I left the book with so much happiness for their characters that it was as if I knew them. The story is so well written and the characters are so relatable that you really feel for them.
There are moments of grief, sadness, joy, love and everything in between. The way that grief and loss are described by the author is so well done, it’s not “prettied up” or brushed over, it’s real and it’s raw. Finding happiness and joy again after loss is no easy feat and Nicola is a strong woman for picking herself up and dusting herself off and allowing herself to heal and then giving herself the space to love again.

I don’t want to give a summary or a synopsis because I think to really feel the story and understand the characters you just have to jump right in and enjoy the ride. Yes, there are some parts that may be hard to digest on an emotional level, but you go on that rollercoaster with the characters and what kind of romance novel would it be if you weren’t torn apart and built back up again a couple times?

Well done, Emery Rose! This was my first Emery Rose book and it certainly won’t be the last!
Profile Image for Brie (briereadsbooks).
513 reviews37 followers
January 6, 2023
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ ⁣

“𝘠𝘰𝘶 𝘴𝘩𝘪𝘯𝘦 𝘴𝘰 𝘣𝘳𝘪𝘨𝘩𝘵, 𝘣𝘢𝘣𝘺. 𝘓𝘪𝘬𝘦 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘧𝘶𝘤𝘬𝘪𝘯𝘨 𝘴𝘵𝘢𝘳 𝘺𝘰𝘶 𝘢𝘳𝘦.”⁣

What a tearjerker this one was! I love Emery's writing and was so excited to hear she had another book in the Love & Chaos series. This one did not disappoint y'all! ⁣

This book was full of second chances and it totally took me by surprise. ⁣

August Harper… 𝘛𝘩𝘦 𝘮𝘢𝘯 𝘸𝘩𝘰 𝘱𝘶𝘵 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘴𝘶𝘯 𝘣𝘢𝘤𝘬 𝘪𝘯 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘴𝘬𝘺.⁣

I love August and Nicola! They are the definition of perfect for each other. They both know each other's moods and how to calm the other down. They're sweet and protective of each other. They're both chefs too! And I loved their interactions while doing chef things! They make such a great time inside and outside of the kitchen. ⁣

This was definitely an emotional read and I could not imagine being in Nicola's shoes. She is so strong and my heart broke for her. ⁣

My heart also broke for August and the consequences of his actions, especially knowing the decisions he made were for those he loved and knowing he would do anything and everything for them. I loved seeing him get his second chance(s). ⁣

This was an incredible journey that I highly recommend you take! ⁣

ARC received for an honest review.
Profile Image for Sarah N.
406 reviews50 followers
January 6, 2023
What a way to bring in 2023! Grab your tissues, Until August by Emery Rose is a five star read that will bring your heart to the highest of highs, and cut you deep with angst and emotion, just to put you back together again.

Emery Rose delivers a multilayered and deep romance, where you'll find two chefs, delicious food, and heat in and out of the kitchen. Both characters are coming back from tragic events and journey together in a second chance at life, and love.

Although a slow burn, Until August has plenty of chemistry to keep you coming back for more!

Set in the Love & Chaos world, Until August can be read as a complete standalone, but I loved seeing the characters I missed in this angsty and dynamic series!
Profile Image for Jaimie.
1,637 reviews25 followers
January 8, 2023
5+++ STARS
THIS BOOK IS BEAUTIFUL AND HEARTBREAKING!!

Emery continues to write the most compelling stories that draw you and and hold you by every one of your heartstings!

Nicola is a character that I loved from the previous book and I was so excited to get her story, but never did I think it would end up the way it did.
She is by far one of my favorite characters I have read this year. She loves fiercely and her loyalty has no limits.

I loved August on introduction!! I mean how can you not love a man with a past and tattoos. But the layers that this man has will make you fall in love with him.

I could not put this book down, and the only reason I did was because I needed sleep!
This story had me sobbing and my heartbreaking for these characters. The love these characters have, you can feel it from the pages... YOU FEEL ALL THE FEELS!!

I am sure parts of my heart is left in the pages of Until August!
Profile Image for Karie Gibson.
2,148 reviews15 followers
January 4, 2023
5 Brilliant Stars! I would give this book 10 stars if I could! Nicola and August’s story isn’t for the faint of heart. Their journey was emotional roller coaster. I don’t want to give anything away but I will tell you it’s nothing like I thought it would be. I loved every minute of this book and I’m so glad I read it.
This author never seizes to amaze me with her words and imagination. You could feel every emotion coming off the page. This book will leave you with the biggest book hangover ever!
Profile Image for Sarah  - Get Booked with Sez.
790 reviews35 followers
February 11, 2024
Starting off 2023 with a BANG! Until August relates to the Love & Chaos series featuring characters from Wilder Love & Sweet Chaos, however you do not have to have read those books to read this book & can be read as a standalone.

August returns to the beachside town he lost everything in 5 years ago. He goes home back to his seaside town in California to find his ex-girlfriend has moved on & his son doesn’t want to know him. He is lost. And when he finds an opportunity at a local restaurant, he concentrates back on being a well known chef. While charming the restaurant owner at the same time.

Nicola is stuck. She is more than grateful to own the restaurant she calls her real home & a best friend in the shop right across the street. But that’s where it stops. Nicola is in fact still married, but her husband is long gone.

When August comes into her life, he feels familiar & helps her restaurant succeed. He helps her find herself but can she ever truly let him in? Especially when she finds out about his hidden past & where exactly he was the last 5 years.
As pasts collides and truth comes alight, Nicola must make a tough decision about not just her future with August but her own journey of growth.

I do recommend going into this book blind, knowing you may need a tissue for sad & happy tears.

Thank you Emery for letting me review an ARC of this emotional love after loss romance. As per usual, your writing captivated me from page 1.

3.5/5 stars with 3/5 steam.
Profile Image for Ella.
186 reviews10 followers
February 11, 2024
4.25
וואו זה היה ספר מדהים
בעיקרון מושלם עד החלק האחרון שלו, מצאתי את עצמי משתעממת משם עד הסוף
חוץ מזה אהבתי אותו ממש הוא מרגש ועוצמתי אבל גם מאוד מורכב - שניהם נמצאים בסיטואציות מאוד קשות, אז היה לי קצת מסובך במיוחד בהתחלה להיכנס בכלל לסיפור ולהבין במה מדובר

אגב שכחתי את כל הדמויות מסתבר יש המון דמויות שהופיעו בספרים הקודמים - שכחתי
הייתי צריכה להיזכר בהכל מחדש

אני ממש מקווה שהסופרת תוציא עוד ספרים בסדרה הזאת (אם מישהו יודע משהו תגידו!!!)
Profile Image for Amy.
1,482 reviews35 followers
January 2, 2023
“There were no half-measures in my life. You were either fully invested or you weren’t.”

Until August is a heartbreaking, emotional and exquisite story of second chances and difficult choices in life. It’s about two absolutely broken people who are just trying to piece their lives back together and through it all, they became a safe harbor for each other and slowly become the light in the darkness for each other.

“I didn’t know if two broken people could heal each other, but her smile made me believe anything was possible.”

I loved Nicola in Scarlett and Dylan’s story. She was so feisty and full of life and quick-witted. When we meet her in this book, she has been beaten down by life and is struggling to keep her head above water. However, through all of the painful circumstances that she finds herself in, she’s a fighter and is determined to survive. I loved how she slowly began to come alive again and find her smile and love for life again. Her journey was difficult, painful and full of devastating grief, but it showed that life can give you second chances to find happiness.

“It was his superpower. The way he could make you feel so special simply by existing.”

From the moment August stepped on the page, I knew I would love him. Fiercely devoted to his son, he would do anything to make up for his mistakes and to be the man he knows he can be. Like Nicola, he’s fighting to find his place in the world and struggling to survive. His determination and grit was stunning and I loved his strength of character and how his quiet patience that showed the depths of his love.

“Our situations were different, but we were both trying to find our place in the world and figure out who we were now.”

Both Nicola and August needed a second chance and found that in each other. They were kindred spirits and built a strong friendship that allowed them to be completely honest and real with each other. I loved how they supported and encouraged each other and allowed each other the space needed to figure out what they truly needed in order to move forward.

“Life is a risk. But if you’re not taking risks, you’re not really living.”

This story is not an easy one. It’s painful and angsty, but it’s so worth the read. The rollercoaster of emotion that the characters experience will break your heart, but in the end, it’s so fulfilling and heartwarming and absolutely beautiful.
Profile Image for Sarah Beth.
570 reviews21 followers
January 3, 2023
“. . . 𝑳𝒊𝒇𝒆 𝒊𝒔 𝒂 𝒓𝒊𝒔𝒌. 𝑩𝒖𝒕 𝒊𝒇 𝒚𝒐𝒖’𝒓𝒆 𝒏𝒐𝒕 𝒕𝒂𝒌𝒊𝒏𝒈 𝒓𝒊𝒔𝒌𝒔, 𝒚𝒐𝒖’𝒓𝒆 𝒏𝒐𝒕 𝒓𝒆𝒂𝒍𝒍𝒚 𝒍𝒊𝒗𝒊𝒏𝒈. 𝑨𝒏𝒅 𝒘𝒉𝒂𝒕’𝒔 𝒕𝒉𝒆 𝒂𝒍𝒕𝒆𝒓𝒏𝒂𝒕𝒊𝒗𝒆?”

You know when you devour a book in one sitting and have to sit and contemplate over all the emotions running rampant through your body? And then the inevitable book hangover hits you like a ton of bricks? Well Emery did just that with this book! Emery is an artist when it comes to her craftsmanship with words. She takes her time laying down the groundwork and gradually builds the momentum to encapsulate and invoke everything the reader wants and needs. She makes you feel as if you're immersed in the story living these experiences right along with these characters. You connect with them on such a deep and emotional level and truly feel what they feel. This book had me in a chokehold the entire time and I never wanted it to end. The storyline is captivating, the writing heartbreakingly beautiful, and the characters all-consuming.

This was my first book to read from this author and OMG I’ve been hiding under a rock because Emery’s writing is so gut-wrenching and breathtaking at the same time, and I’m DEFINITELY reading everything on her backlist. I don’t know how she’s not already a bestselling author because she 100% deserves that accolade.

“𝑺𝒐𝒎𝒆𝒕𝒊𝒎𝒆𝒔 𝒊𝒕’𝒔 𝒉𝒂𝒓𝒅, 𝒚𝒐𝒖 𝒌𝒏𝒐𝒘? 𝑭𝒊𝒏𝒅𝒊𝒏𝒈 𝒚𝒐𝒖𝒓 𝒑𝒍𝒂𝒄𝒆 𝒊𝒏 𝒕𝒉𝒆 𝒘𝒐𝒓𝒍𝒅 𝒘𝒉𝒆𝒏 𝒊𝒕 𝒇𝒆𝒆𝒍𝒔 𝒍𝒊𝒌𝒆 𝒍𝒊𝒇𝒆 𝒘𝒆𝒏𝒕 𝒐𝒏 𝒘𝒊𝒕𝒉𝒐𝒖𝒕 𝒚𝒐𝒖.”

𝘜𝘯𝘵𝘪𝘭 𝘈𝘶𝘨𝘶𝘴𝘵 follows Nicola and August and how they learn to live and love again after being faced with devastating choices. While their friends, and family have moved forward, Nicola and August are caught in heartbreaking situations they have to fight through and make gut-wrenching decisions that will ultimately change the trajectory of their lives. They are both fierce and strong-willed individuals who are determined to survive in a world that has hit them with devastating blows. But when they cross paths again many years later, through the power of food they begin to rebuild their friendship and help be the light for one another in their eternal darkness. This book is a painful, angsty, emotional, and heartbreaking slow-burn. But it is also an epic journey of love, loss, forgiveness, and second chances.
Profile Image for Kari Hansen.
12.2k reviews91 followers
January 7, 2023
Nicola is a woman who has endured devastating pain and although her head knows what needs to be done to move forward with her life her heart won’t let her. The restaurant that used to be her dream is struggling just like she is but when she hires August to be her sous chef she never expected that not only would he ignite new life into the restaurant but that he would be the first person to ignite feelings in her in a long time.

August has made mistakes which cost him everything and everyone he cared about but working for Nicola gives him a chance to repair the one relationship that means everything to him. He sees the pain that Nicola is in and only wants to help her heal but they both have challenges to overcome that will bring them down before they can rise from the ashes.

Nicola and August’s story is at times heartbreaking and at times inspiring. They reunite when they need someone the most and realize that they are no longer alone as they take us on a romantic and angst filled ride.
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