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Past Life Lover
Who knew putting the bins out could be life changing? Sam is cleaning up his bar after closing time when out of nowhere a beautiful man jumps literally into his arms and won't let go. He soon discovers that the gorgeous stranger, Tally, has had a very traumatic night. So all this talk of them being lovers in a past life and Tally escaping from hell to be with him again, must just be trauma induced delusions. It has to be? Right? There is no way this sweet looking young man is a reincarnated dark lord. But Sam doesn't mind looking after Tally until he feels better. It's not like the poor man has anywhere else to go. It’s not like one good deed will lead to his life being turned upside down and inside out. Will it? So what if strange things start to happen? Such as hell hounds and then Lucifer's husband showing up.
Tally might just well be worth it. Tally might just be worth everything. Please note.
Aside from two scenes, the story is told from one character's point of view. This book contains references to suicide and addiction. It includes scenes of addiction withdrawal. There are frequent references to hell and two side characters are demons (very nice ones). Low angst. Medium heat. Happily Ever After guaranteed.
Tally might just well be worth it. Tally might just be worth everything. Please note.
Aside from two scenes, the story is told from one character's point of view. This book contains references to suicide and addiction. It includes scenes of addiction withdrawal. There are frequent references to hell and two side characters are demons (very nice ones). Low angst. Medium heat. Happily Ever After guaranteed.
220 pages, Paperback
First published July 11, 2022
42 people are currently reading
124 people want to read
About the author
S. Rodman
38 books315 followersI love characters who are battered and broken by life, who through the course of finding love, discover they are strong.
Despite everything, because of everything, I will always believe that love conquers all.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 49 reviews
September 11, 2022
The good
+ Sam helping Tally, even when Tally meant nothing to him yet
+ Tally's patience with Sam
+ Sam yelling at Tally for what he did after Sam's life from 2000 years ago ended
+ Tally sacrificing everything to be with Sam
+ Joseph. What a romantic
+ Sam intimidating the gangsters with his confidence
The neutral
o I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book. My review remains honest and unbiased
o Tally knew a lot about the modern world, because of Benji's memories. But when he used a phone, something Benji would know for sure, he floundered. It was a bit inconsistent
o The writing was amateurish at times. Sentences didn't flow well, and weird choices were made for punctuation
The bad
- There was zero communication between the main characters. Tally expressed interest in threesomes, and Sam didn't want that. They never talked about it. Sam sacrificed his life 2000 years ago so Tally wouldn't have to do something, and Tally did it anyway. Sam was really mad about it. They didn't talk about it. Sam learned Tally killed his summoners and felt awful about it. Guess what, they didn't talk about it...
- Sam never asked about Tally's magic, or even expressed an interest in getting to know him as a person
- The world building was pretty lackluster. Everytime something supernatural came up, it was just... there. Sam didn't really comment on it, and everything was pretty much glossed over as if they were all everyday occurences
- The supernatural characters were all unlikable. Jinx was just weird and creepy, and didn't behave like a good friend, so what was he? And Zeph was a giant dick with the way he treated Tally, and then suddenly said "ah man I've always been on your side". Seriously, Zeph, then maybe you should've apologized or something before? What an asshole
- It was unclear to me why Sam didn't go to hell (which is apparently the place everyone goes before they enter the reincarnation cycle), while Tally did. Because Benji was able to get out of hell again, so why couldn't Tally? The way hell worked was described very inconsistently
- Sam said he just wanted to be loved for who he was, instead of what he looked like. Then he decides Tally is the perfect guy for that, while Tally loved him for who he was 2000 years ago, not for who he was now. Isn't that the exact opposite of what he wanted?
- When Sam's ex showed up, Sam didn't once think about how he felt more for Tally than he ever had for his ex, or even that he would never take someone back who exchanged him for someone else. No, the only thing he thought was that he loved the ex, but still didn't want to take him back. It felt like he only didn't take him back because Tally was around, which is pretty bad
- Tally made a transphobic comment, and Sam just gave him a gentle reprimand and let it go after that. Not cool, Sam. Educate your boyfriend or tell him to educate himself on the topic
- Sam had some kind of big plan to end up in hell himself, then decided to not do it for no real reason at all. He'd rather wait a few more lifetimes than go to hell for Tally, while Tally did everything for him already
- Benji was just... collateral damage? The hell, guys?
Quotes
x "I will always love you regardless of what body you are in."
I liked the premise of this book. Unfortunately, the way it was executed didn't really work for me. I had expected more of a connection than just some physical pull and a lot of persuasion on Tally's part. I'm also afraid future books will be about Jinx and Zeph, and I really don't need to see more of Zeph. Joseph deserves better. This book just didn't work for me, and I wouldn't recommend it. It also ended while leaving me with a lot of questions, especially about Tally's magic.
+ Sam helping Tally, even when Tally meant nothing to him yet
+ Tally's patience with Sam
+ Sam yelling at Tally for what he did after Sam's life from 2000 years ago ended
+ Tally sacrificing everything to be with Sam
+ Joseph. What a romantic
+ Sam intimidating the gangsters with his confidence
The neutral
o I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book. My review remains honest and unbiased
o Tally knew a lot about the modern world, because of Benji's memories. But when he used a phone, something Benji would know for sure, he floundered. It was a bit inconsistent
o The writing was amateurish at times. Sentences didn't flow well, and weird choices were made for punctuation
The bad
- There was zero communication between the main characters. Tally expressed interest in threesomes, and Sam didn't want that. They never talked about it. Sam sacrificed his life 2000 years ago so Tally wouldn't have to do something, and Tally did it anyway. Sam was really mad about it. They didn't talk about it. Sam learned Tally killed his summoners and felt awful about it. Guess what, they didn't talk about it...
- Sam never asked about Tally's magic, or even expressed an interest in getting to know him as a person
- The world building was pretty lackluster. Everytime something supernatural came up, it was just... there. Sam didn't really comment on it, and everything was pretty much glossed over as if they were all everyday occurences
- The supernatural characters were all unlikable. Jinx was just weird and creepy, and didn't behave like a good friend, so what was he? And Zeph was a giant dick with the way he treated Tally, and then suddenly said "ah man I've always been on your side". Seriously, Zeph, then maybe you should've apologized or something before? What an asshole
- It was unclear to me why Sam didn't go to hell (which is apparently the place everyone goes before they enter the reincarnation cycle), while Tally did. Because Benji was able to get out of hell again, so why couldn't Tally? The way hell worked was described very inconsistently
- Sam said he just wanted to be loved for who he was, instead of what he looked like. Then he decides Tally is the perfect guy for that, while Tally loved him for who he was 2000 years ago, not for who he was now. Isn't that the exact opposite of what he wanted?
- When Sam's ex showed up, Sam didn't once think about how he felt more for Tally than he ever had for his ex, or even that he would never take someone back who exchanged him for someone else. No, the only thing he thought was that he loved the ex, but still didn't want to take him back. It felt like he only didn't take him back because Tally was around, which is pretty bad
- Tally made a transphobic comment, and Sam just gave him a gentle reprimand and let it go after that. Not cool, Sam. Educate your boyfriend or tell him to educate himself on the topic
- Sam had some kind of big plan to end up in hell himself, then decided to not do it for no real reason at all. He'd rather wait a few more lifetimes than go to hell for Tally, while Tally did everything for him already
- Benji was just... collateral damage? The hell, guys?
Quotes
x "I will always love you regardless of what body you are in."
I liked the premise of this book. Unfortunately, the way it was executed didn't really work for me. I had expected more of a connection than just some physical pull and a lot of persuasion on Tally's part. I'm also afraid future books will be about Jinx and Zeph, and I really don't need to see more of Zeph. Joseph deserves better. This book just didn't work for me, and I wouldn't recommend it. It also ended while leaving me with a lot of questions, especially about Tally's magic.
July 15, 2022
A Joyfully Jay review.
3 stars
I was intrigued by this story because of the reincarnation and reunited lovers storyline. Unfortunately, this book didn’t give me everything I was expecting. The writing style was a bit simplistic for my taste, and combined with the lack of depth to the narrative, it left me wanting.
The story is told almost exclusively through Sam’s third-person POV. And since this story is of his acceptance, that made sense. Sam is immediately shown as a kind-hearted person and it was easy to see how much he wanted to believe Tally. Not because he actually believes in the paranormal aspect or that he’s the reincarnated soul who used to be Tally’s, but because he wants to be loved for who he is. Tally’s claim on Sam feels good. And as the story progressed, little things kept adding up. Sam’s feelings grew, he was able to piece some things together, and he saw things he couldn’t deny. So even though the story barely scratched the surface, his journey pulled the narrative along.
Read Kris’ review in its entirety here.
3 stars
I was intrigued by this story because of the reincarnation and reunited lovers storyline. Unfortunately, this book didn’t give me everything I was expecting. The writing style was a bit simplistic for my taste, and combined with the lack of depth to the narrative, it left me wanting.
The story is told almost exclusively through Sam’s third-person POV. And since this story is of his acceptance, that made sense. Sam is immediately shown as a kind-hearted person and it was easy to see how much he wanted to believe Tally. Not because he actually believes in the paranormal aspect or that he’s the reincarnated soul who used to be Tally’s, but because he wants to be loved for who he is. Tally’s claim on Sam feels good. And as the story progressed, little things kept adding up. Sam’s feelings grew, he was able to piece some things together, and he saw things he couldn’t deny. So even though the story barely scratched the surface, his journey pulled the narrative along.
Read Kris’ review in its entirety here.
July 1, 2022
Another great and quite unique story from S. Rodman.
Past Life Lover starts with Tally jumping into Sam's arms, finally reunited with his lost love.
Sam is immediately taken by the stranger and decides to take him in, get him hospital treatment and look after him.
Tally has taken the body of Benji, an addict with a pimp, and as such he goes through withdrawal.
For a book with such dark undertones, the majority of the content was light until you thought about it.
Sam and Tally were cute together and I loved the idea of Tally waiting to be with his lover again. They really had to work for their HEA but it was lovely.
Past Life Lover starts with Tally jumping into Sam's arms, finally reunited with his lost love.
Sam is immediately taken by the stranger and decides to take him in, get him hospital treatment and look after him.
Tally has taken the body of Benji, an addict with a pimp, and as such he goes through withdrawal.
For a book with such dark undertones, the majority of the content was light until you thought about it.
Sam and Tally were cute together and I loved the idea of Tally waiting to be with his lover again. They really had to work for their HEA but it was lovely.
March 2, 2026
Oh god… this was awful.
August 4, 2022
One moment Sam’s throwing away garbage in the alley behind his bar, the next his arms are full of a guy. Sam is stunned but realizes the guy needs the reassurance of his arms around him.
Tally talks as if he’s delusional, saying they were lovers two thousand years ago, that he escaped from hell and finally found Sam. He’s devastated Sam doesn’t recognize him.
Sam takes care of Tally, he can’t stand the hurt or disappointment in his eyes. Tally wants to have sex with Sam, he waited so long, but Sam doesn’t want to take advantage of a hurt person who needs to heal. So it’s a no.
But every night the no is taking more of his strength, he yearns for Tally.
Certain things are happening, like someone from hell wants to take Tally back, or the hellhounds who are visiting, Sam gets Tally isn’t who he thought he was.
Sam is head over heels with Tally and doesn’t want to lose him ever again.
Without spoiling I can tell that more events will happen and it’s all smashing good.
I loved this delightful story dearly, exactly what I like. It was super intense on one side and mellow on the other, with hurt comfort, all the feelings, silly humor, great fantasy, sexy time, endearing and adorable main characters, great side characters, an amazing atmosphere, a solid plot, and the prospect to another installment of this series.
The writing style took me in (under) from page one, I was totally involved and engaged, and I only came up for air again when I was finished. You get I loved this one!
Read and reviewed for LoveBytes - LGBTQ bookreviews
Tally talks as if he’s delusional, saying they were lovers two thousand years ago, that he escaped from hell and finally found Sam. He’s devastated Sam doesn’t recognize him.
Sam takes care of Tally, he can’t stand the hurt or disappointment in his eyes. Tally wants to have sex with Sam, he waited so long, but Sam doesn’t want to take advantage of a hurt person who needs to heal. So it’s a no.
But every night the no is taking more of his strength, he yearns for Tally.
Certain things are happening, like someone from hell wants to take Tally back, or the hellhounds who are visiting, Sam gets Tally isn’t who he thought he was.
Sam is head over heels with Tally and doesn’t want to lose him ever again.
Without spoiling I can tell that more events will happen and it’s all smashing good.
I loved this delightful story dearly, exactly what I like. It was super intense on one side and mellow on the other, with hurt comfort, all the feelings, silly humor, great fantasy, sexy time, endearing and adorable main characters, great side characters, an amazing atmosphere, a solid plot, and the prospect to another installment of this series.
The writing style took me in (under) from page one, I was totally involved and engaged, and I only came up for air again when I was finished. You get I loved this one!
Read and reviewed for LoveBytes - LGBTQ bookreviews
July 13, 2022
Sam and Tally, separated for millennia. Sam had sacrificed himself so Tally wouldn’t die. Tally came back to Sam in the body of sex worker Benji. Cut to hell, runes carved into his body, an addict, Tully knows Sam is his. Now he just needs to convince Sam of that fact.
The story had some issues. I didn’t feel a real connection between Sam and Tully. I felt the book didn’t give enough history of the mens past together. The story also glossed over Tally’s time in hell and how he found Sam. Also they were quick to send Benji to hell. The peripheral characters could of used more background also.
I did like Tally and Sam. For all his time in hell, Tully was really sweet. Sam was fairly naive and too trusting. Their interactions were sweet and once they got better acquainted, pretty hot.
I’ve read several books by this author and I just didn’t feel this was one of their best efforts. It’s an interesting book though.
I received an arc of this book.
The story had some issues. I didn’t feel a real connection between Sam and Tully. I felt the book didn’t give enough history of the mens past together. The story also glossed over Tally’s time in hell and how he found Sam. Also they were quick to send Benji to hell. The peripheral characters could of used more background also.
I did like Tally and Sam. For all his time in hell, Tully was really sweet. Sam was fairly naive and too trusting. Their interactions were sweet and once they got better acquainted, pretty hot.
I’ve read several books by this author and I just didn’t feel this was one of their best efforts. It’s an interesting book though.
I received an arc of this book.
July 11, 2022
3.5 🌟's
The general concept of this story for me was a really good one and was exactly what drew me in.
Low angst, light read about reincarnation and a love that spanned two millenniums.
The world-building was pretty mediocre and general execution of the story was very surface-level.
Sam and Tally are interesting characters and all you want is to learn more about them but it just doesn’t come.
I wished they had more depth and I wished for more meaningful conversation between them.
Was glad for their HEA cos I could only imagine how agonizing it must have been for Tally to be without the love of his life for 2000 years…😮
The general concept of this story for me was a really good one and was exactly what drew me in.
Low angst, light read about reincarnation and a love that spanned two millenniums.
The world-building was pretty mediocre and general execution of the story was very surface-level.
Sam and Tally are interesting characters and all you want is to learn more about them but it just doesn’t come.
I wished they had more depth and I wished for more meaningful conversation between them.
Was glad for their HEA cos I could only imagine how agonizing it must have been for Tally to be without the love of his life for 2000 years…😮
July 14, 2022
The cover of this book pulled me! This ended up being a cute little reincarnated love story. Tally was so sweet and so happy to see his Sam again after so very long! Sam did not know who Tally was but very protective and concerned for him! I enjoyed watching Tally try to remind Sam of who they were to each other and how much he always wanted sex was amusing! I read an arc. Not a lot of world building which made it more of a quick and simple kind of read.
July 15, 2022
Past Life Lover was sooo addicting to read. I couldn’t put it down. Loved, loved, loved Sam and Tally!! They had been separated for a millennium. Sam had sacrificed himself so that Tally wouldn’t die. Sam is taking out the garbage when Tally jumps into his arms. Tally has taken over the body of Benji, an addict. He goes through withdrawal. Overall, a great story, the only thing I would have changes was more depth and background of Tally and Sam.
July 1, 2025
2.5⭐️
This has a great plot idea… great start, great side characters - HOWEVER the storytelling leaves much to be desired and the editing…. there are so many times where punctuation notes are still there!! i.e. (comma) or (period) and random spelling typos which, obv weren’t serious but all of this was frequent enough that I actually noticed it which was meh.
Another pass through and some developmental editing could really do this baby some good.
This has a great plot idea… great start, great side characters - HOWEVER the storytelling leaves much to be desired and the editing…. there are so many times where punctuation notes are still there!! i.e. (comma) or (period) and random spelling typos which, obv weren’t serious but all of this was frequent enough that I actually noticed it which was meh.
Another pass through and some developmental editing could really do this baby some good.
July 18, 2022
The concept of this story was just so much fun. I really wish that this story was more in depth because I just wanted more of everything. This story just had the best concept and I wanted to read more about it. But I really appreciate the bases of this story, it truly was a good one.
I received an arc of this book and this is my honest opinion
I received an arc of this book and this is my honest opinion
July 16, 2022
*I was given an ARC in exchange for an honest review*
The mysterious circumstances had me hooked instantly! The book caught my attention quickly with the promise of some mystery and drama, a recipe for a good read!
Definitely a slow burn (despite Tally’s best efforts) you definitely have to be a fan of a build up to get into this one! Luckily, this is a shorter read, so it didn’t take too long!
Sam’s nobility in trying not to take advantage of Tally both made him a character I was inclined to enjoy and respect, but also drove me crazy, the willpower this man possesses!
Though the beginning had a lot of potential, the middle lost me a bit of I’m honest.
The romantic aspects of their relationship didn’t seem as well fleshed out to me. Sure, on Tally’s end he’s has a few thousand years to cultivate his love for Sam, but Sam just gets the story of, “I escaped from hell and I’m your past love.” I would have loved to see Tally do some more romancing (besides violating the parks gardening lol), or at least some more explaining for poor Sam’s sanity.
In terms of plot, I couldn’t help but hope this story would take on some more intensity given that it is a paranormal and urban fantasy romance. To me it felt more like a contemporary romance with some hints of otherworldly elements. I was hoping for the creepy cult that kidnapped Benji to come back, or the demon the cult was summoning to try to punish Tally for taking his sacrifice, but the story fell into a quaint domesticity that didn’t engage with me as much. The most we got was Lucifer’s concubine coming to “get him” and letting him stay because he “doesn’t like his moping” and he’s “so nice”, it just didn’t click for me (though I will say, the author did close this up better towards the end.)
Closer to the end of the book, I noticed what I could only assume were writing errors, like “(period)” and “(comma)” in a sentence here and there.
Though the middle might have lost me a bit, I was definitely pulled back in closer to the end, with a satisfying conclusion that did close up loose ends and brought the story to a thorough close.
Overall though, it was an enjoyable read with interesting characters and a storyline that was intriguing. I would definitely be interested to read from this author in the future!
The mysterious circumstances had me hooked instantly! The book caught my attention quickly with the promise of some mystery and drama, a recipe for a good read!
Definitely a slow burn (despite Tally’s best efforts) you definitely have to be a fan of a build up to get into this one! Luckily, this is a shorter read, so it didn’t take too long!
Sam’s nobility in trying not to take advantage of Tally both made him a character I was inclined to enjoy and respect, but also drove me crazy, the willpower this man possesses!
Though the beginning had a lot of potential, the middle lost me a bit of I’m honest.
The romantic aspects of their relationship didn’t seem as well fleshed out to me. Sure, on Tally’s end he’s has a few thousand years to cultivate his love for Sam, but Sam just gets the story of, “I escaped from hell and I’m your past love.” I would have loved to see Tally do some more romancing (besides violating the parks gardening lol), or at least some more explaining for poor Sam’s sanity.
In terms of plot, I couldn’t help but hope this story would take on some more intensity given that it is a paranormal and urban fantasy romance. To me it felt more like a contemporary romance with some hints of otherworldly elements. I was hoping for the creepy cult that kidnapped Benji to come back, or the demon the cult was summoning to try to punish Tally for taking his sacrifice, but the story fell into a quaint domesticity that didn’t engage with me as much. The most we got was Lucifer’s concubine coming to “get him” and letting him stay because he “doesn’t like his moping” and he’s “so nice”, it just didn’t click for me (though I will say, the author did close this up better towards the end.)
Closer to the end of the book, I noticed what I could only assume were writing errors, like “(period)” and “(comma)” in a sentence here and there.
Though the middle might have lost me a bit, I was definitely pulled back in closer to the end, with a satisfying conclusion that did close up loose ends and brought the story to a thorough close.
Overall though, it was an enjoyable read with interesting characters and a storyline that was intriguing. I would definitely be interested to read from this author in the future!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
June 30, 2022
This was an utterly delightful low angst paranormal romance by author S. Rodman. I wasn't expecting the cuteness factor at all after having only read the Evil Omega series by this author. Tally was truly adorable and like Sam, I couldn't help but fall in love with him. Poor Sam. He's just living his everyday life when he's accosted into a bear hug by a sweet twink he's never met. He had no idea said twink was going to change his life forever. Nor did he know that this was definitely not the first time they met. Sam's life was going to take a turn for the weird so to speak.
My heart felt for Tally the most. Banished to hell, waiting thousands of years to find his soulmate again. Then when he does, Sam doesn't remember him or anything about their past life. Try explaining to the everyday human that they are your lover reincarnated from thousands of years ago. You can bet it didn't go over too well and Sam spends much of the book thinking Tally is stuck in some sort of delusion. That is, until weird things start popping up in his bedroom such as a demon and Lucifer's main squeeze. There really isn't much one can argue against after that.
The romance was sweet. No matter what Tally wouldn't be deterred. He was going to make Sam fall in love with him again. Honestly, he didn't have to try all that hard. Tally and all his innocence of the modern world was strangely endearing. He was one of those MCs you wanted to wrap up in a warm blanket and snuggle to death. You can't help but adore him. I really do wish this book was alternating POV so that we got to be in his head as well as Sam's.
Jinx was certainly an intriguing side character and I am excited that his book is next. It will be interesting to see how the author is going to deal with his communication issues as he is new to the world as well and cannot speak. As far as I know, he doesn't appear to know any sign language either. I will say his fashion sense is quite striking and I can't wait to learn more things about him when his book debuts.
My heart felt for Tally the most. Banished to hell, waiting thousands of years to find his soulmate again. Then when he does, Sam doesn't remember him or anything about their past life. Try explaining to the everyday human that they are your lover reincarnated from thousands of years ago. You can bet it didn't go over too well and Sam spends much of the book thinking Tally is stuck in some sort of delusion. That is, until weird things start popping up in his bedroom such as a demon and Lucifer's main squeeze. There really isn't much one can argue against after that.
The romance was sweet. No matter what Tally wouldn't be deterred. He was going to make Sam fall in love with him again. Honestly, he didn't have to try all that hard. Tally and all his innocence of the modern world was strangely endearing. He was one of those MCs you wanted to wrap up in a warm blanket and snuggle to death. You can't help but adore him. I really do wish this book was alternating POV so that we got to be in his head as well as Sam's.
Jinx was certainly an intriguing side character and I am excited that his book is next. It will be interesting to see how the author is going to deal with his communication issues as he is new to the world as well and cannot speak. As far as I know, he doesn't appear to know any sign language either. I will say his fashion sense is quite striking and I can't wait to learn more things about him when his book debuts.
July 20, 2022
I love the idea of past lovers being reunited, separated through time. When one has been reincarnated, and the other trapped in hell the whole time? Yeah, I couldn’t resist this book.
Tally escapes from Hell and manages to find Sam, a bar owner in this life, and sets about trying to convince him they’re soul mates, essentially. Unfortunately, to get out of Hell, Tally had to take over a dead body, reanimating it. But the body he takes belongs to a prostitute / drug addict named Benji, leading to some hilarious interactions where Tally learns about detoxing, and Sam learns that Tally isn’t entirely crazy when the potion he makes does help. Sam of course, isn’t completely convinced, because it seems crazy that he could be reincarnated, Tally was in Hell, and formerly a mage. Even when demons show up trying to take Tally back to Hell, he’s still kinda sceptical. But Tally makes it abundantly clear he’s in love with Sam, and Sam can’t help but be entranced by him.
Now, for the most part I really enjoyed this book. But at this point I’ve read a few books by this author and I might be done. I don’t know why but every book seems to leave me feeling a bit weird. In this story the body Tally takes over isn’t quite dead. Benxi is still there. And at times he does pop up, taking back over again. Which is obviously problematic to the heroes because when they do end up together, Sam doesn’t want to lose Tally. But Benji is still present! It’s written off like he doesn’t mind being possessed, he’s happy because it feels like being high all the time. In the end the whole problem is done away with when Benji’s soul is taken to Hell, because Tally’s explanation makes it sound ‘dope.’ And honestly I’m not on board with this. It felt really weird that Tally and Sam’s happy ending came at the expense of someone else.
In the end, if this is an author you really enjoy, go ahead and read the book, but it was not for me.
I voluntarily reviewed an ARC copy of this book.
July 22, 2022
Bloody (literally, as in covered in, not British slang) twink jumps into Sam's arms while he was taking out the trash and clings to him like a baby spider monkey. Really, what else is a person to do but take the poor guy inside and try and get him some help? But then the guy claims his name is Tally, however a nurse calls him Benji. And Tally claims they were lovers in a past life... Sam would have every right to kick the guy to the curb. But he doesn't, which is a little odd.
So what would you do? I think Sam handles it well, doing all he can to help, while not understanding why he doesn't want Tally to leave. Then Sam starts to act almost irrationally about Tally, makes Same doubt himself. But then really weird stuff starts to happen.
I'm not sure if I agreed with all the character choices. But then I don't know what else I would have done. I feel like there should have been more freaking out on Sam's part. But then again, who would have believed him. This story is based in present time, and there are a few random acts of paranormal events. So if you aren't big into that genre, good news, it's not a lot of the book. If you were looking for a lot, sorry. However, its a good peek, if you will, behind the veil of what we accept to be true. So I liked it for that aspect.
So what would you do? I think Sam handles it well, doing all he can to help, while not understanding why he doesn't want Tally to leave. Then Sam starts to act almost irrationally about Tally, makes Same doubt himself. But then really weird stuff starts to happen.
I'm not sure if I agreed with all the character choices. But then I don't know what else I would have done. I feel like there should have been more freaking out on Sam's part. But then again, who would have believed him. This story is based in present time, and there are a few random acts of paranormal events. So if you aren't big into that genre, good news, it's not a lot of the book. If you were looking for a lot, sorry. However, its a good peek, if you will, behind the veil of what we accept to be true. So I liked it for that aspect.
July 14, 2022
Good book with an interesting plot - I'm hopeful it will become a series
I like a lot of things about this book. Sam and Tully were sweet characters and I enjoyed the way they interacted (especially when Sam was pretty sure Tully was suffering from some pretty serious delusions!). The concept behind the story was a good one too - it's got a bit of a second chances vibe but because Sam doesn't remember Tully it doesn't hit too heavily on that trope. My main problem was just with the world-building. The characters weren't always a 100% consistent, but to some extent, who is and I actually felt their inconsistencies made them more believable characters. I just didn't come out having a lot of understanding of the world they were meant to be living in. If the supernatural isn't widely known (hence Sam's disbelief) then why was so much just accepted as happening. I'm all for a character who doesn't freak out every two seconds, but I'd kind of expect there to at least be some questions. It wasn't a huge issue and it didn't affect the story, it just made it a little less engaging overall. Hopefully if this does become a series then we'll get to see some more world-building that fleshes the world they all live in a bit more.
I like a lot of things about this book. Sam and Tully were sweet characters and I enjoyed the way they interacted (especially when Sam was pretty sure Tully was suffering from some pretty serious delusions!). The concept behind the story was a good one too - it's got a bit of a second chances vibe but because Sam doesn't remember Tully it doesn't hit too heavily on that trope. My main problem was just with the world-building. The characters weren't always a 100% consistent, but to some extent, who is and I actually felt their inconsistencies made them more believable characters. I just didn't come out having a lot of understanding of the world they were meant to be living in. If the supernatural isn't widely known (hence Sam's disbelief) then why was so much just accepted as happening. I'm all for a character who doesn't freak out every two seconds, but I'd kind of expect there to at least be some questions. It wasn't a huge issue and it didn't affect the story, it just made it a little less engaging overall. Hopefully if this does become a series then we'll get to see some more world-building that fleshes the world they all live in a bit more.
July 11, 2022
*3.5*
Overall, this is a good story and I enjoyed Sam and Tally's characters. The thing that brought it down a little for me was where it slumped or slowed down for chunks of the story.
However, Tally's sweet innocence raises a smile as does his persistence in making Sam believe where he's come from and their connection in a past life. Oh and his constant request for sex! Sam, trying to be honourable and worried about Tally's mental health, needs to care for the young man more than take for himself and it's a heartwarming part of their developing relationship.
There are several aspects to this story that bring out the drama and tension with demons and gangsters out to ruin their HEA.
An enjoyable story that, I think, just needed to be paced out a bit better and maybe some more about their past life together or some fun with tally learning about modern living.
I received an ARC and am happily giving a review.
Overall, this is a good story and I enjoyed Sam and Tally's characters. The thing that brought it down a little for me was where it slumped or slowed down for chunks of the story.
However, Tally's sweet innocence raises a smile as does his persistence in making Sam believe where he's come from and their connection in a past life. Oh and his constant request for sex! Sam, trying to be honourable and worried about Tally's mental health, needs to care for the young man more than take for himself and it's a heartwarming part of their developing relationship.
There are several aspects to this story that bring out the drama and tension with demons and gangsters out to ruin their HEA.
An enjoyable story that, I think, just needed to be paced out a bit better and maybe some more about their past life together or some fun with tally learning about modern living.
I received an ARC and am happily giving a review.
June 30, 2022
Past Life Lover is about Tally who reunites with his lover, now called Sam, from a previous lifetime. Separated by dark magic, Tally has been in hell while Sam keeps being reincarnated. Tally has to convince Sam it’s true and make him fall in love with him.
It’s a very unique storyline. I really liked the main characters, and I enjoyed watching Sam fall in love with Tally again. From the very first page, I felt the emotions of the characters. I could feel Tally’s desperation to make Sam understand and to believe him.
There was one thing that just felt a little off. Tally’s soul supposedly took over a body. Throughout the story, the other man made random appearances in now-Tally’s body, which was just confusing. And it was awkward. It totally took me out of the story, and more importantly, out of the emotions.
Overall, the story was good though.
It’s a very unique storyline. I really liked the main characters, and I enjoyed watching Sam fall in love with Tally again. From the very first page, I felt the emotions of the characters. I could feel Tally’s desperation to make Sam understand and to believe him.
There was one thing that just felt a little off. Tally’s soul supposedly took over a body. Throughout the story, the other man made random appearances in now-Tally’s body, which was just confusing. And it was awkward. It totally took me out of the story, and more importantly, out of the emotions.
Overall, the story was good though.
July 7, 2022
This is not your typical story of reincarnation. Tally and Sam were lovers in a past life but Sam doesn’t remember it. He is pretty adamant that the young man is mentally ill and he feels like he has to help him. Tally remembers everything because he has been in Hell this whole time due to his deeds in the same past life. These characters got on my nerves a little bit, not sure what the deal was there. It is a sweet low angst story though with them getting their HEA. Overall, it’s a decent story, but it wasn’t one of my favorites. I do have to say that Tally has some very romantic lines. His faith in Sam never waivers, even when Sam goes hot and cold. I never know which end of the spectrum this author’s books will be for me. I either seem to love them or hate them. I am kinda indifferent about this one.
dnf
August 15, 2022DNF @62%
I'm sorry. I tried so hard to finish this because it was an ARC and I'm very grateful for that, but while the premise sounded fun the writing is something I could not get past.
There is little dialogue with all the storytelling being told from the character's thoughts as they overanalyze every situation and interaction. As a reader, I do not appreciate being told how to feel over feeling/witnessing the emotion for myself. The amount of telling rather than showing just got to me; I couldn't appreciate important moments because everything just felt and sounded so passive. In other words, it felt like I was reading a summary rather than an active, emotional book.
Sam's attitude toward Tally really got to me too. In the end, I didn't want to read about another big tough guy completely dismissing the capabilities of the person they are with because they're a "delicate looking twink," even after said twink totally proved themselves beyond a shadow of a doubt.
I didn't realize until a few chapters in that this was the same author as Evil Omega, another book where I liked the plot, but DNF'd for the exact same reasons. Live and learn I suppose.
I'm sorry. I tried so hard to finish this because it was an ARC and I'm very grateful for that, but while the premise sounded fun the writing is something I could not get past.
There is little dialogue with all the storytelling being told from the character's thoughts as they overanalyze every situation and interaction. As a reader, I do not appreciate being told how to feel over feeling/witnessing the emotion for myself. The amount of telling rather than showing just got to me; I couldn't appreciate important moments because everything just felt and sounded so passive. In other words, it felt like I was reading a summary rather than an active, emotional book.
Sam's attitude toward Tally really got to me too. In the end, I didn't want to read about another big tough guy completely dismissing the capabilities of the person they are with because they're a "delicate looking twink," even after said twink totally proved themselves beyond a shadow of a doubt.
I didn't realize until a few chapters in that this was the same author as Evil Omega, another book where I liked the plot, but DNF'd for the exact same reasons. Live and learn I suppose.
March 11, 2023
Rating: 3.25 Stars
POV(s): Single*—Third Person
Relationship: M/M
Genre(s): Paranormal Romance
❥
I love reincarnation stories, and whilst this is technically that, it doesn’t really give much attention to the MMCs’ past lives, instead focusing on their love story in the present.
❥
Title: “Past Life Lover” by S. Rodman
Interconnected Series: Yes
Standalone: Yes
Cliffhanger: No
HEA:
Triggers: Yes
Tags/Tropes:
➢ Hurt-Comfort
➢ Low-Angst
➢ Reincarnation
➢ Seperation (2,000 years)
*From Author’s Note: “Aside from one scene, the story is told from one character’s point of view.”
POV(s): Single*—Third Person
Relationship: M/M
Genre(s): Paranormal Romance
❥
I love reincarnation stories, and whilst this is technically that, it doesn’t really give much attention to the MMCs’ past lives, instead focusing on their love story in the present.
❥
Title: “Past Life Lover” by S. Rodman
Interconnected Series: Yes
Standalone: Yes
Cliffhanger: No
HEA:
Triggers: Yes
Tags/Tropes:
➢ Hurt-Comfort
➢ Low-Angst
➢ Reincarnation
➢ Seperation (2,000 years)
*From Author’s Note: “Aside from one scene, the story is told from one character’s point of view.”
July 15, 2022
Sweet, silly story that is easy to read - I would consider light entertainment.
It's got a fun take on the underworld and doesn't take itself too seriously. I was required to suspend quite a lot of belief, but the humour and the characterisations allowed me to maintain investment in the universe for the most part. It's really quite silly, but it worked for me.
I enjoyed Tally's determination to seduce Sam, and Sam is just a gorgeous, massive, teddy bear who struggles with his feelings for Tally and his ability to accept a reality he hadn't known existed.
Third person mostly single POV (Tally has a couple of chapters but it's mostly from Sam's perspective) with lots of heat.
I received a copy of this book from Gay Romance Reviews and I have chosen to leave an honest review.
It's got a fun take on the underworld and doesn't take itself too seriously. I was required to suspend quite a lot of belief, but the humour and the characterisations allowed me to maintain investment in the universe for the most part. It's really quite silly, but it worked for me.
I enjoyed Tally's determination to seduce Sam, and Sam is just a gorgeous, massive, teddy bear who struggles with his feelings for Tally and his ability to accept a reality he hadn't known existed.
Third person mostly single POV (Tally has a couple of chapters but it's mostly from Sam's perspective) with lots of heat.
I received a copy of this book from Gay Romance Reviews and I have chosen to leave an honest review.
July 17, 2022
I loved the idea of this story. Sam is a great guy in general. He was willing to take in a stranger who obviously needed help. Tally was so sweet and seemingly innocent. Their relationship development was well done, especially Sam’s internal struggle to not want to take advantage of Tally. If that’s all there was to this book, in a contemporary romance I would have probably given it 4 or 5 stars. Then on top of that add the past lives, which don’t seem to match their current characteristics at all, and the magic and demons that didn’t really have any explanations. I really think we needed at least another 50-100 pages to make the world building in this more believable instead of it feeling like an afterthought.
July 2, 2022
Will their souls finally reconnect???
This is a story by a new to me author, S. Rodman.
Sam, Celtic warrior, currently a bar owner who's been reincarnated over and over during the last 2,000 years
Tally, magic weaver, black magic user who doomed his soul to hell, currently residing in the body of a drug using prostitute, newly arrived from hell after 2,000 years away from Sam
This story had one the most unique storylines I've read and I loved it. The story could have been longer with more time spent building this world and getting to know these men a bit more. There were many characters introduced in this book... if this doesn't become a series I'm going to be seriously disappointed.
This is a story by a new to me author, S. Rodman.
Sam, Celtic warrior, currently a bar owner who's been reincarnated over and over during the last 2,000 years
Tally, magic weaver, black magic user who doomed his soul to hell, currently residing in the body of a drug using prostitute, newly arrived from hell after 2,000 years away from Sam
This story had one the most unique storylines I've read and I loved it. The story could have been longer with more time spent building this world and getting to know these men a bit more. There were many characters introduced in this book... if this doesn't become a series I'm going to be seriously disappointed.
July 11, 2022
Not really sure how to review this one…it was an okay story but it just felt a bit off. I’ve never read this author before so I’m going I’m with no past references. It felt like a new author who hadn’t had the book checked by editors or beta/alpha readers. There weren’t any grammatical errors but the story didn’t seem fully fleshed out. Sam kept having doubts about everything and yet really didn’t ask questions or do anything about it. Tally seemed sweet but a bit annoying. It’s hard to put my thoughts into words but while the story line was ok, I’m not a fan of this book.
July 15, 2022
A really fun mm paranormal romance
Tally and Sam lead a very interesting life in this paranormal story that is tremendous fun to read. I loved the way that S. Rodman has combined the ideas of reincarnation and a fated mate type of thing then added in hell as more of a different dimension. The characters are definitely the best thing for me in this book and even the secondary characters are well written and fleshed out marvelously. I enjoyed this book a lot and I really hope for more books about these two characters and also some of the secondary characters.
Tally and Sam lead a very interesting life in this paranormal story that is tremendous fun to read. I loved the way that S. Rodman has combined the ideas of reincarnation and a fated mate type of thing then added in hell as more of a different dimension. The characters are definitely the best thing for me in this book and even the secondary characters are well written and fleshed out marvelously. I enjoyed this book a lot and I really hope for more books about these two characters and also some of the secondary characters.
July 16, 2022
This is a sweet reincarnated lovers story, although only one MC knows it at first. (The other MC thinks the first is delusional.) Tally was so sweet and I loved the way he kept trying to get Sam to remember who they had been. It's funny how Sam resists until things he can't explain or deny start happening. Pretty low-angst sweet and sexy story. The only things that would have made it better for me would have been a dual POV and more info about their past lives. Still, a good read.
I received an ARC and am voluntarily leaving this honest review.
I received an ARC and am voluntarily leaving this honest review.
August 7, 2022
3.75 stars
Past Life Lover is a really interesting idea that immediately captured my attention. Having not read the author before, I wasn’t sure what to expect, but I found the story intriguing and the flow good.
Sam and Tally make for a fun and unique couple. I liked how their immediate connection solidified into more. I also liked how the little moments they shared led to big changes in Sam’s feelings and recognition of Tally’s importance. Past Life Lover’s shorter length kept everything moving at a rapid pace. For the most part, this worked with the fateful fantasy, but there were definitely moments or conflicts introduced throughout the book that went unresolved. That said, it wasn’t enough to pull me out of the story.
Fast paced stories can be hit or miss for me, but Past Life Lover kept me incredibly entertained with a good collection of characters and fun intersections of fantasy and contemporary romance. I’d recommend this story to anyone looking for a quick read that explores fate and appreciates a bit of magic in their romances.
*** Copy provided to Bayou Book Junkie for my reading pleasure. A review wasn't a requirement. ***
Past Life Lover is a really interesting idea that immediately captured my attention. Having not read the author before, I wasn’t sure what to expect, but I found the story intriguing and the flow good.
Sam and Tally make for a fun and unique couple. I liked how their immediate connection solidified into more. I also liked how the little moments they shared led to big changes in Sam’s feelings and recognition of Tally’s importance. Past Life Lover’s shorter length kept everything moving at a rapid pace. For the most part, this worked with the fateful fantasy, but there were definitely moments or conflicts introduced throughout the book that went unresolved. That said, it wasn’t enough to pull me out of the story.
Fast paced stories can be hit or miss for me, but Past Life Lover kept me incredibly entertained with a good collection of characters and fun intersections of fantasy and contemporary romance. I’d recommend this story to anyone looking for a quick read that explores fate and appreciates a bit of magic in their romances.
*** Copy provided to Bayou Book Junkie for my reading pleasure. A review wasn't a requirement. ***
July 17, 2022
What a way to start out a hurt/comfort romance! Tally's wild tales of demons, hell, Lucifer, etc. just convince Sam that he's had quite the head injury until all the paranormal shenanigans start. I am hard to convince with reincarnation stories, but I totally believed in these two. I also loved all the side characters and hope the author plans to return to this world and tell us their stories in detail.
July 17, 2022
I enjoyed this book. It's the first book I've read but this author. I really enjoyed the concept. It was unique and fun. Great world building and likeable characters. My main gripe is that the story is only told through Sam's point of view. I wish it were alternating between him and Tally's POV's, so we could also see into Tally's thoughts and emotions throughout the book as well. A fun read. I enjoyed it and would read more from this author. 4 stars.
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