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The space between duet #1
The Space Between Love & Hate
I remember the first time I saw Sutton Barnett in perfect detail- like a fragment of time suspended in front of my eyes. I remember his shirt- faded blue against tanned skin that had seen countless hours of the summer sun. Wet droplets peppered his shoulders from where his still wet hair had dripped onto the fabric. He rounded the bottom of the stairs, our eyes meeting for only a fraction of a second before he looked away, but it was long enough for me to know right then and there that nothing would ever be the same again.
And I was right. At thirteen years old, I had predicted exactly what was to come. Some things you just know are an absolute inevitability, and Sutton was that for me. The one thing I couldn’t escape no matter how far or fast I ran. But the distance only made me want him more. Time intensifying the deep ache that I could not outrun no matter how hard I tried. I loved him so much it hurt. But I also hated him almost as intensely.
Over the years I found comfort there- in the space between love and hate. But even I knew I couldn’t stay there forever- that one day I’d be forced to face Sutton again. I just wish I was a hell of a lot more prepared when that day finally came…
The Space Between Love & Hate is the first book in The Space Between Duet.
And I was right. At thirteen years old, I had predicted exactly what was to come. Some things you just know are an absolute inevitability, and Sutton was that for me. The one thing I couldn’t escape no matter how far or fast I ran. But the distance only made me want him more. Time intensifying the deep ache that I could not outrun no matter how hard I tried. I loved him so much it hurt. But I also hated him almost as intensely.
Over the years I found comfort there- in the space between love and hate. But even I knew I couldn’t stay there forever- that one day I’d be forced to face Sutton again. I just wish I was a hell of a lot more prepared when that day finally came…
The Space Between Love & Hate is the first book in The Space Between Duet.
359 pages, Kindle Edition
Published March 10, 2023
655 people are currently reading
2951 people want to read
About the author
Melissa Toppen
55 books1,816 followersMelissa Toppen is a USA Today Bestselling Author who specializes in New Adult and Contemporary Romance. She is a lover of books and enjoys nothing more than losing herself in a good novel. She has a soft spot for romance and focuses her writing in that direction; writing what she loves to read.
For more information on Melissa and her books, visit www.melissatoppen.com
For more information on Melissa and her books, visit www.melissatoppen.com
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 206 reviews
February 3, 2023
ღ 🆃🅷🅴 🆂🅿🅰🅲🅴 🅱🅴🆃🆆🅴🅴🅽 🅻🅾🆅🅴 🅰🅽🅳 🅷🅰🆃🅴 ღ Is the first full length romance book in the
'The space Between' duet by author Melissa Toppen. Spoken in dual perspectives. Ends in a cliffy. In this you'll meet the Barnett brothers Remi & Sutton, Aspen our heroine.
Easy to get into, hard to put down. I pretty much devoured this one, a straight forward no frills romance book without any need for twists and turns which made this like a real to life romance unfolding.
Two brothers
One girl
I didn’t think I’d like these siblings equally, I thought I’d like one more than the other but with this book that’s not the case. I couldn’t choose one over the other even if I had to.
One was her protector
The other danced between love and hate
One was her best friend. End of.
The other was a one night stand to more.
Remi was always there when Aspen needed him to be, a shoulder to cry on, a safe haven when things at home became unbearable and terrifying. Sutton was the boy she didn't want to want, one brief look at him and she was stuck in his orbit.
September 27, 2024
4.5 ⭐️ I don't even want to talk about how late I stayed up reading this 💀🤣
It's one of those books that played like a movie in my head! Obviously, I'm team Sutton, but I love Remi too 🥹
It's one of those books that played like a movie in my head! Obviously, I'm team Sutton, but I love Remi too 🥹
March 7, 2023
Well I have more questions than when I started this book!! I need answers, a drink and for someone to tell me straight to my face that everything is going to be OK. I know that things are going to get messy because judging by the anxiety that I'm feeling right now, it's about to go down in book 2 and I'm not prepared for it.
Best friends Remi and Aspen have been by each other's side since childhood. Their bond is something that they truly cherish and knowing that nothing and no one can disrupt that is what makes them love each other even more. But for Aspen, taking a trip back home is going to rattle her bones a bit because the one person that she despises, is also the one that she can never truly get away from. What happens when your best friend's brother is also your love enemy?
I honestly had no idea how this story was going to go when I first started reading it but I braced myself still. I saw early on how things were going to play out and I was on board for it despite me having a few choice words for one of the characters. I loved seeing their evolution and that had me rooting for them all the way even though I knew that things were going to change drastically.
What I was not prepared for was that ending. I felt like I was sucker punched by the rock!! The emotions that I felt towards the end had me wishing I had a blood pressure monitor because there's no way this author left it like that. What happens now? Will there be a reunion? Who's going to truly get their heart broken? What other secrets are there? All of these questions and I'm hoping for ALL of the answers in book 2.
If you're looking for a best friend love triangle romance, then I recommend you try this one.
Please note: This is a duet and it ends on a cliffhanger.
July 29, 2023
3.5 STARS ....I really enjoyed the writing and the story. It's my first by this author. I gotta say I'm not sold on Sutton. I know he's supposed to be end game but he's such an asshole, not only in his actions but in the way he thinks too. I'm honestly not sure why Aspen has always been in love with him, aside from the whole older brother/moody vibes he has going for him. It would be different if there were little things he did that would make us love him, but I dunno he's not winning any book boyfriend awards from me. It wasn't until the end that he started being a bit human and I actually felt a little sad for him.
I liked Remi & Aspens friendship, he's super protective of her considering how she grew up, but they're really codependent on each other. I also think it was really unfair of him to profess his love the way he did and claim he's been waiting for her. He literally would hook up with girls non stop while they were roommates and she would even have to hear him. You can't force feelings and there's obviously nothing more than friends on Aspen's part. It'll be interesting to see how Aspen handles these relationships in the next book
I liked Remi & Aspens friendship, he's super protective of her considering how she grew up, but they're really codependent on each other. I also think it was really unfair of him to profess his love the way he did and claim he's been waiting for her. He literally would hook up with girls non stop while they were roommates and she would even have to hear him. You can't force feelings and there's obviously nothing more than friends on Aspen's part. It'll be interesting to see how Aspen handles these relationships in the next book
May 11, 2023
I’ll take Remi and Sutton please. OBSESSED
August 11, 2023
Overall, I did not like this book. It gets 3 stars because it has good readability and I felt compelled to finish quickly.
Aspen is literally the worst. And yet, two brothers want her. Her best friend, Remi, is obviously in love with her but she acts dumb about it. She loves him and they’ve been inseparable for over a decade, but she rejects the idea of being with him because she doesn’t feel fireworks or whatever. Meanwhile, grumpy/rude Sutton gives her fireworks but literally knows nothing about her so she’s in love with him, obviously.
Remi is a prize. He takes care of her, prioritizes her, knows everything about her, etc. He would make Aspen happy. Fireworks come and go… having a reliable partner is forever.
Seems inevitable that the endgame is Aspen and Sutton (especially since we got a Sutton pov but not remi) but it pissed me off. Why can’t the good guy win sometimes? There’s nothing particularly likable about Sutton other than he’s hot and he’s willing to punch bad people.
Edit: read reviews for book 2 and I can tell I would hate it, so I’m stopping here.
Aspen is literally the worst. And yet, two brothers want her. Her best friend, Remi, is obviously in love with her but she acts dumb about it. She loves him and they’ve been inseparable for over a decade, but she rejects the idea of being with him because she doesn’t feel fireworks or whatever. Meanwhile, grumpy/rude Sutton gives her fireworks but literally knows nothing about her so she’s in love with him, obviously.
Remi is a prize. He takes care of her, prioritizes her, knows everything about her, etc. He would make Aspen happy. Fireworks come and go… having a reliable partner is forever.
Seems inevitable that the endgame is Aspen and Sutton (especially since we got a Sutton pov but not remi) but it pissed me off. Why can’t the good guy win sometimes? There’s nothing particularly likable about Sutton other than he’s hot and he’s willing to punch bad people.
Edit: read reviews for book 2 and I can tell I would hate it, so I’m stopping here.
May 20, 2023
4 ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ Stars! Enemies to lovers, loved this 1st book in this duet, definitely recommend, off to read book 2!
August 8, 2023
This was really good.
Wish It wasn't a love triangle though. The friendship between Remi and Aspen was really beautiful, made of dreams ...
P.S. : I skipped reading the flashbacks.
Highlights:
Memories. Such an inconsequential word, and yet the very thing that defines our existence. What are we if not for our memories? Who are we? Who would I be without the memory of what came before?
Wish It wasn't a love triangle though. The friendship between Remi and Aspen was really beautiful, made of dreams ...
P.S. : I skipped reading the flashbacks.
Highlights:
Memories. Such an inconsequential word, and yet the very thing that defines our existence. What are we if not for our memories? Who are we? Who would I be without the memory of what came before?
July 6, 2023
Ahhhhh. I hate love triangles, but I couldn’t stop reading, needing to know what happened. Ugh. I’m nervous to read the next one and hope my guy ends up with Aspen.
Seriously, love triangles suck sometimes!! But this author is good at angst and writing sexy heroes.
Seriously, love triangles suck sometimes!! But this author is good at angst and writing sexy heroes.
May 13, 2023
ℍ𝕠𝕥 𝔸𝕟𝕘𝕤𝕥𝕪 𝕣𝕚𝕕𝕖 𝕒𝕙𝕖𝕒𝕕 🔥
✔️She's his Brother's Best friend
✔️ Enemies-to-lovers
✔️ Love hate kinda dynamics
✔️ Sweet, will die for each other kinda friendship between brother and her
✔️ So much of high flying angsty and emotional and drama filled
🅼🆈 🆁🅴🆅🅸🅴🆆:
Wow. This one has made me feel like I was up and thrown out and I feel like I'm all over right now.
What happens when you have a friend that is your family and the only one who's not only saved you but he's are everything to you.
Aspen and Remi have that kinda friendship that left me absolutely go weak in the knees looking at their bond and how they're always there for each other and know everything about each other.
Remi is her life pal and the only thing he's ever asked of her is to stay away from his brother Sutton.
And Sutton is the very man who's been Aspen's crush and heart break too.
AHH.. This one was truly such a roller-coaster ride. Two brothers. One you want and the other is always there for you. Who would you choose. And how can you even choose.
Honestly, it was and is even now for me difficult to like Sutton. I just feel like he was such an A-hole time and again and it was frustrating honestly for why did Aspen like him when he was such a jerk.
Going ahead, I did start to feel a little bit for Sutton as maybe he might be something different now but again that man just angered me and made me want to give him a piece of my mind.
Yet, as they say the heart wants what it wants.
But that climax changed everything, when Aspen is compelled to choose. Oh my goodness those last chapters were really high voltage both emotionally and dramatically with the turn of events and now Aspen knowing something she didn't.
I'm really hoping in the conclusion she chooses the right brother, though. Let's see fingers crossed because I know the brother I'd choose.
Yet I did also understand where Aspen was coming from but still I didn't agree with her choices though sometimes.
Oohhh.. Onto the conclusion next one. ❤️❤️
✔️She's his Brother's Best friend
✔️ Enemies-to-lovers
✔️ Love hate kinda dynamics
✔️ Sweet, will die for each other kinda friendship between brother and her
✔️ So much of high flying angsty and emotional and drama filled
🅼🆈 🆁🅴🆅🅸🅴🆆:
Wow. This one has made me feel like I was up and thrown out and I feel like I'm all over right now.
What happens when you have a friend that is your family and the only one who's not only saved you but he's are everything to you.
Aspen and Remi have that kinda friendship that left me absolutely go weak in the knees looking at their bond and how they're always there for each other and know everything about each other.
Remi is her life pal and the only thing he's ever asked of her is to stay away from his brother Sutton.
And Sutton is the very man who's been Aspen's crush and heart break too.
AHH.. This one was truly such a roller-coaster ride. Two brothers. One you want and the other is always there for you. Who would you choose. And how can you even choose.
Honestly, it was and is even now for me difficult to like Sutton. I just feel like he was such an A-hole time and again and it was frustrating honestly for why did Aspen like him when he was such a jerk.
Going ahead, I did start to feel a little bit for Sutton as maybe he might be something different now but again that man just angered me and made me want to give him a piece of my mind.
Yet, as they say the heart wants what it wants.
But that climax changed everything, when Aspen is compelled to choose. Oh my goodness those last chapters were really high voltage both emotionally and dramatically with the turn of events and now Aspen knowing something she didn't.
I'm really hoping in the conclusion she chooses the right brother, though. Let's see fingers crossed because I know the brother I'd choose.
Yet I did also understand where Aspen was coming from but still I didn't agree with her choices though sometimes.
Oohhh.. Onto the conclusion next one. ❤️❤️
April 22, 2024
I liked this book, but was unhappy with some of the decisions the main characters made. Initially there was a large lack of emotional depth that was really frustrating. I didn’t like the cliff hanger ending because you really didn’t get any closure and nothing was tied up, the book just kind of ended.
August 3, 2023
Unbelievable Love Triangle
Okay, just to get the quirks out of the way —because there’s just a few but boy oh boy it does NOT take away from the full story thank goodness — there are times when the book falls into cliche territory (primarily at the beginning) and it made me wince a bit. But I’m SO glad I continued reading!
All of Melissa Toppen’s characters are complex and not one-dimensional. You will not get the simple villain to hate or hero to root for. Which makes this incredible as I’m personally biased to favoring any enemy-to-lover pairing. Especially over your more common friends-to-lovers trope. But these characters??? Wow. Melissa Toppen did SUCH a good job in balancing everything out. We saw the good, the bad, and the ugly from everyone and I finished the book torn on which ship I was pulling for.
Now, aside from the romance, the writing itself is lovely and feels like a live world. Genuinely beside myself that this book was so much fun to read as I wasn’t expecting anything lol. Give it a chance!
Okay, just to get the quirks out of the way —because there’s just a few but boy oh boy it does NOT take away from the full story thank goodness — there are times when the book falls into cliche territory (primarily at the beginning) and it made me wince a bit. But I’m SO glad I continued reading!
All of Melissa Toppen’s characters are complex and not one-dimensional. You will not get the simple villain to hate or hero to root for. Which makes this incredible as I’m personally biased to favoring any enemy-to-lover pairing. Especially over your more common friends-to-lovers trope. But these characters??? Wow. Melissa Toppen did SUCH a good job in balancing everything out. We saw the good, the bad, and the ugly from everyone and I finished the book torn on which ship I was pulling for.
Now, aside from the romance, the writing itself is lovely and feels like a live world. Genuinely beside myself that this book was so much fun to read as I wasn’t expecting anything lol. Give it a chance!
March 13, 2023
I remember the first time I saw Sutton Barnett in perfect detail- like a fragment of time suspended in front of my eyes. I remember his shirt- faded blue against tanned skin that had seen countless hours of the summer sun. Wet droplets peppered his shoulders from where his still wet hair had dripped onto the fabric. He rounded the bottom of the stairs, our eyes meeting for only a fraction of a second before he looked away, but it was long enough for me to know right then and there that nothing would ever be the same again.
And I was right. At thirteen years old, I had predicted exactly what was to come. Some things you just know are an absolute inevitability, and Sutton was that for me. The one thing I couldn’t escape no matter how far or fast I ran. But the distance only made me want him more. Time intensifying the deep ache that I could not outrun no matter how hard I tried. I loved him so much it hurt. But I also hated him almost as intensely.
Over the years I found comfort there- in the space between love and hate. But even I knew I couldn’t stay there forever- that one day I’d be forced to face Sutton again. I just wish I was a hell of a lot more prepared when that day finally came…
Wow!! I was immediately hooked within the first few pages of this book. As to not give anything away, you best be prepared to be taken on an emotional journey like no other! This book was beautifully written and heartfelt. I highly recommend going into this book blind! Can't wait to read
the Space between now & Forever!
The Space Between Love & Hate is the first book in The Space Between Duet.
And I was right. At thirteen years old, I had predicted exactly what was to come. Some things you just know are an absolute inevitability, and Sutton was that for me. The one thing I couldn’t escape no matter how far or fast I ran. But the distance only made me want him more. Time intensifying the deep ache that I could not outrun no matter how hard I tried. I loved him so much it hurt. But I also hated him almost as intensely.
Over the years I found comfort there- in the space between love and hate. But even I knew I couldn’t stay there forever- that one day I’d be forced to face Sutton again. I just wish I was a hell of a lot more prepared when that day finally came…
Wow!! I was immediately hooked within the first few pages of this book. As to not give anything away, you best be prepared to be taken on an emotional journey like no other! This book was beautifully written and heartfelt. I highly recommend going into this book blind! Can't wait to read
the Space between now & Forever!
The Space Between Love & Hate is the first book in The Space Between Duet.
November 28, 2024
solid and quick read
This needed more development especially for the romance. Suttons POV was not the best. Didn’t feel the connection. Chemistry was there but it was very surface level. Almost feel like the romance should have been with Remi. Aspen wa way too passive and a doormat like when it came to Sutton and frankly should have held out longer. All in all though a quick read.
This needed more development especially for the romance. Suttons POV was not the best. Didn’t feel the connection. Chemistry was there but it was very surface level. Almost feel like the romance should have been with Remi. Aspen wa way too passive and a doormat like when it came to Sutton and frankly should have held out longer. All in all though a quick read.
October 31, 2024
“No sé cómo ni cuándo, pero Aspen Cooper se ha enterrado tanto en mi piel que no creo que pueda sacarla nunca. Y si soy sincero conmigo mismo, no creo que quiera hacerlo”.
No es mal libro, pero personalmente no me terminó de convencer.
No es mal libro, pero personalmente no me terminó de convencer.
February 22, 2025
Had me from the beginning
What a 24 ride ( real work included ..) from the moment I started this book I didn’t want to put it down.
I can’t wait to read more..
I really love the characters and the story of them.
What a 24 ride ( real work included ..) from the moment I started this book I didn’t want to put it down.
I can’t wait to read more..
I really love the characters and the story of them.
June 7, 2023
screaming crying throwing up I hate a book ending in a cliff hanger. 🏃🏽♀️🏃🏽♀️🏃🏽♀️🏃🏽♀️🏃🏽♀️🏃🏽♀️On my way to the next book
November 5, 2025
3.5 ⭐️
I actually enjoyed this story - even if it was a little predictable and full of familiar romance tropes. The characters really carried it for me. The writing, though, was where things fell flat. It just needed a stronger edit to smooth out the rough edges and elevate the whole book.
I actually enjoyed this story - even if it was a little predictable and full of familiar romance tropes. The characters really carried it for me. The writing, though, was where things fell flat. It just needed a stronger edit to smooth out the rough edges and elevate the whole book.
March 10, 2023
Asypen and Sutton Barnett have been childhood friends, enemies , mixed with a love triangle. We see the world building of these two characters. Sutton is this best friend of Asypen younger brother. A secret relationship. I don't know why I keep coming back to this kind of troupe Where this bloody author writes heartbreak and we see the damage that these two do to each other. Which leaves you hoping for a redemption like no other. And makes you want to know what will happen in book 2.
March 23, 2023
Hands down, my favorite book written by Melissa Toppen. I went in kind of blind with this book and I am so glad I did. It was so well written, and character driven. It became a love triangle that I saw coming and I couldn’t wait to get to all the angst. Melissa delivered the angst on this with spades.
The friendship between Remi and Aspen was something that I craved more of while reading. I loved their witty banter, their comfort level with each other, their history, and Remi is hilarious. He is such an amazing friend. The way he has been there for Aspen is amazing and I wish I had a friend like this. And then we have Sutton. Remi’s brother. He was an asshole but an alpha asshole that is aware he is an asshole. He doesn’t pretend otherwise.
The relationship between Aspen and Sutton was something that I craved as well. He is the “forbidden” brother, he makes her feel things, and he is genuinely honest. Not to mention the dirty talk – he was fabulous with that. I was on board with that. I craved both Remi and Sutton so I felt the pain that Aspen felt.
Two brothers. One friend. A secret kept for years turned things into an angst driven book that I absolutely loved. There was sexual tension, witty banter (whether it be between Aspen and Remi and Aspen and Sutton), a family dynamic that is unique, and so much angst.
I had such intense feelings throughout this book because I could feel Aspen’s feelings throughout the book. It was so well written. I had no idea this was going to end on a cliffhanger, so I am so happy we get more of Aspen, Sutton, and Remi. Even if you don’t like cliffhangers, don’t worry, this is so worth it!
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The friendship between Remi and Aspen was something that I craved more of while reading. I loved their witty banter, their comfort level with each other, their history, and Remi is hilarious. He is such an amazing friend. The way he has been there for Aspen is amazing and I wish I had a friend like this. And then we have Sutton. Remi’s brother. He was an asshole but an alpha asshole that is aware he is an asshole. He doesn’t pretend otherwise.
The relationship between Aspen and Sutton was something that I craved as well. He is the “forbidden” brother, he makes her feel things, and he is genuinely honest. Not to mention the dirty talk – he was fabulous with that. I was on board with that. I craved both Remi and Sutton so I felt the pain that Aspen felt.
Two brothers. One friend. A secret kept for years turned things into an angst driven book that I absolutely loved. There was sexual tension, witty banter (whether it be between Aspen and Remi and Aspen and Sutton), a family dynamic that is unique, and so much angst.
I had such intense feelings throughout this book because I could feel Aspen’s feelings throughout the book. It was so well written. I had no idea this was going to end on a cliffhanger, so I am so happy we get more of Aspen, Sutton, and Remi. Even if you don’t like cliffhangers, don’t worry, this is so worth it!
#avidreaderbookblog #readingislife #bookblogger #bookbloggersofinstagram #bookbloggersofinsta #romance #romancebooks #romancebook #romancebookstagram #romancebookstagrammer #romanceauthor #angst #slowburn #sexualtension #angst #bookaddict #bookaddiction #bookworm #booklover #bookworm #melissatoppen #melissatoppenauthor #melissatoppenbooks
July 3, 2023
DNF
This was ok but not engaging enough to finish. I think the premise is interesting but the writing, particularly the dialogue, was very juvenile. Lots of immature jokes meant to sound witty that I don't think real adults would have.
Couldn't get past the cringy dialogue. Also too much telling instead of showing. Main character claims to be really good at hiding feelings yet literally everyone can read her feelings immediately.
This was ok but not engaging enough to finish. I think the premise is interesting but the writing, particularly the dialogue, was very juvenile. Lots of immature jokes meant to sound witty that I don't think real adults would have.
Couldn't get past the cringy dialogue. Also too much telling instead of showing. Main character claims to be really good at hiding feelings yet literally everyone can read her feelings immediately.
March 4, 2023
This book took me on a ride! It was so emotional and angsty! I need the second book immediately! I can't help but hate and love cliffhangers and this one has left me gutted!
I was hooked by the first couple of chapters and I completely devoured the book in one day. I am definitely on team Sutton all the way! What can I say, I love grumpy, moody men! And boy did Sutton check that box! He did surprise me with how caring and swoony he became with Aspen. Remi was such a loving and sweet friend to Aspen but I definitely don't see the same chemistry between them.
My guilty pleasure is a love triangle, especially when brothers are involved. I usually have a hard time picking between characters but with this book, I knew immediately which brother I was cheering for. I can't believe I have to wait to see how this story ends! I highly recommend this book if you want to read an angsty, emotional rollercoaster ride that you will devour in one sitting!
"𝓢𝓱𝓮 𝓬𝓸𝓷𝓼𝓾𝓶𝓮𝓼 𝓶𝓮 𝓼𝓸 𝓭𝓮𝓮𝓹𝓵𝔂 𝓽𝓱𝓪𝓽 𝓪𝓵𝓵 𝓘 𝓬𝓪𝓷 𝓼𝓮𝓮 𝓲𝓼 𝓱𝓮𝓻. 𝓐𝓵𝓵 𝓘 𝓬𝓪𝓷 𝓼𝓶𝓮𝓵𝓵 𝓲𝓼 𝓱𝓮𝓻. 𝓐𝓵𝓵 𝓘 𝓬𝓪𝓷 𝓽𝓪𝓼𝓽𝓮 𝓲𝓼 𝓱𝓮𝓻. 𝓐𝓵𝓵 𝓘 𝓬𝓪𝓷 𝓯𝓮𝓮𝓵 𝓲𝓼 𝓱𝓮𝓻."
*I was given an ARC by the author and Give Me Books PR in exchange for an honest review
I was hooked by the first couple of chapters and I completely devoured the book in one day. I am definitely on team Sutton all the way! What can I say, I love grumpy, moody men! And boy did Sutton check that box! He did surprise me with how caring and swoony he became with Aspen. Remi was such a loving and sweet friend to Aspen but I definitely don't see the same chemistry between them.
My guilty pleasure is a love triangle, especially when brothers are involved. I usually have a hard time picking between characters but with this book, I knew immediately which brother I was cheering for. I can't believe I have to wait to see how this story ends! I highly recommend this book if you want to read an angsty, emotional rollercoaster ride that you will devour in one sitting!
"𝓢𝓱𝓮 𝓬𝓸𝓷𝓼𝓾𝓶𝓮𝓼 𝓶𝓮 𝓼𝓸 𝓭𝓮𝓮𝓹𝓵𝔂 𝓽𝓱𝓪𝓽 𝓪𝓵𝓵 𝓘 𝓬𝓪𝓷 𝓼𝓮𝓮 𝓲𝓼 𝓱𝓮𝓻. 𝓐𝓵𝓵 𝓘 𝓬𝓪𝓷 𝓼𝓶𝓮𝓵𝓵 𝓲𝓼 𝓱𝓮𝓻. 𝓐𝓵𝓵 𝓘 𝓬𝓪𝓷 𝓽𝓪𝓼𝓽𝓮 𝓲𝓼 𝓱𝓮𝓻. 𝓐𝓵𝓵 𝓘 𝓬𝓪𝓷 𝓯𝓮𝓮𝓵 𝓲𝓼 𝓱𝓮𝓻."
*I was given an ARC by the author and Give Me Books PR in exchange for an honest review
July 18, 2024
3 stars
Well I am torn on this one. On one hand, the writing was decent and honest, and the essence of the plot (girl torn between one brother who is her person and another brother who is her love) oozed of enough angst (though more intellectual angst than the visceral variety) to entice me reading. However, on the other hand, the writing was many times too wordy and wooden in that NA juvenile kind of way that it made me lose patience with the emotional woes of the characters. And the first person narrative in present tense did not help things with its 'in your face' storytelling tone. In a way, I can't even fault the writing tone because the characters are in fact NA, being 24-26. But possibly I am too old to have patience with their emotional immaturity.
In final, I don't think I like the overall book much. Or at least, I am not the right audience for it. And since it is a duet, I feel well justified to not touch Book 2. However, since my OCD seems to be stronger than my lukewarm dislike, I will forge on to finish the duet. And who knows maybe Book 2 will read better? One can hope.
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My review for Book 2: here
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
April 8, 2023
Unsure of the rating
I didn’t give it 2 stars because it is well written. Although I couldn’t give it beyond 3 stars because the plot is extremely cliche. This book is literally the same plot as the Kissing Booth, movie and damn near all other books lol. I know she’s going to end up with the older brother. Although, in my opinion she is the villain because she knew how he felt, like let’s be real. It’s the same cycle of books and tv shows that pushes young women to pursue the “bad boy” who “are mean to you which secretly means he likes you” which results in assault cases when they’re older. The man that truly loves her out loud never wins, romantically. I continued to read it because I thought this time it might change, it has in some 2023 romance novels, but not in this case, which is sad. We’ll see in the 2nd book, how it turns out, which I’m sure is going to be her being with the older brother, and the best friend being with Olivia. I understand that there are different types of soulmates, and not every one has to be romantic, but this one should have been for them two.
I didn’t give it 2 stars because it is well written. Although I couldn’t give it beyond 3 stars because the plot is extremely cliche. This book is literally the same plot as the Kissing Booth, movie and damn near all other books lol. I know she’s going to end up with the older brother. Although, in my opinion she is the villain because she knew how he felt, like let’s be real. It’s the same cycle of books and tv shows that pushes young women to pursue the “bad boy” who “are mean to you which secretly means he likes you” which results in assault cases when they’re older. The man that truly loves her out loud never wins, romantically. I continued to read it because I thought this time it might change, it has in some 2023 romance novels, but not in this case, which is sad. We’ll see in the 2nd book, how it turns out, which I’m sure is going to be her being with the older brother, and the best friend being with Olivia. I understand that there are different types of soulmates, and not every one has to be romantic, but this one should have been for them two.
January 18, 2024
I don't think a book has pissed me off as much as this has. I began reading the book because I liked the summary and the ratings were pretty good but I honestly have no idea how people can give this a five star rating. It annoyed me so much when remi kept calling aspen "my girl" and aspen was just cool with it even when she was with Sutton. I think there has to be a barrier between love and friendship which aspen was too dumb to realise. And I absolutely hated it when they said they loved each other more than anyone else in the world and would always be each other's number one. Honestly if my boyfriend had a girl best friend who said that to him I would slap her and dump him for reciprocating those feelings. I began reading the next book and hated it so much that I stopped mid-way. I felt absolutely no chemistry between that characters, even between Sutton and aspen (who I was rooting for).
November 6, 2023
Sorry but no. MMC Sutton was awful and why would either of them give a shit after 6 years of no contact. There was no chemistry or development of feelings between them. Remi was too needy and annoying.
In Suttons pov you don’t see his longing feelings for her he says things like:
“But she isn’t. She’s a stray you brought in off the streets that we haven’t been able to get rid of since. You know what they say, once you feed a stray, they never go away”
“She’s a good fuck. I don’t plan on marrying the girl or even dating her, for that matter. So why the fuck do I care what bullshit she’s got in her past?”
In Suttons pov you don’t see his longing feelings for her he says things like:
“But she isn’t. She’s a stray you brought in off the streets that we haven’t been able to get rid of since. You know what they say, once you feed a stray, they never go away”
“She’s a good fuck. I don’t plan on marrying the girl or even dating her, for that matter. So why the fuck do I care what bullshit she’s got in her past?”
March 7, 2023
Aspen and Sutton's story immerses you in an ocean of feels and will leave you desperate for book two. Be prepared to have your heart ripped in two and to have your emotions left a tangled mess as this angsty, steamy, poignant, heartstring tugger lures you in, seduces its way into your heart and mind and then delivers a rock-hard punch that will steal your breath and leave you aching for the answers only book two can give. I am independently posting an impartial review.
December 24, 2023
Remi. Deserves. Better.
Only good part of this book was the ending where Aspen picked Remi over Sutton. But since I know that'll change in the 2nd book anyways (nd for useless reasons bcuz Sutton has no qualities) I'm not reading further. I'll take my joy with the ending of this book and pretend they worked out everything and it's Aspen and Remi forever. Actually no, Remi truly deserves better. She's a selfish bitch who doesn't deserve someone as pure as Remi.
Bye
Only good part of this book was the ending where Aspen picked Remi over Sutton. But since I know that'll change in the 2nd book anyways (nd for useless reasons bcuz Sutton has no qualities) I'm not reading further. I'll take my joy with the ending of this book and pretend they worked out everything and it's Aspen and Remi forever. Actually no, Remi truly deserves better. She's a selfish bitch who doesn't deserve someone as pure as Remi.
Bye
September 2, 2024
He was such a Ahole. And lacked any real personality only person I was rooting for was remi
March 8, 2024
Enemies to Lovers, Best Friends Brother, Close Proximity
Girl goes to the renewing of her best friend’s parents wedding vows ceremony.
The couple, Randel and Summer Barnett, practically raised her like their own
They were also the parents of her best friend Remi and his brother Sutton.
Remi.
He and Aspen, were inseparable from the age of eleven, now, at twenty-four they are just as close, if not more so, having both lived together for several years, and now only living a block away from each other in Washington DC.
(lived together until Remi’s extracurricular activities..*cough! ..Hook ups got to be too distracting )
So as they arrive back at Randle and Sumner’s house.
Aspen finds herself indulging in some if her childhood memories.
Some good, Some bad.
The good being the house were she took shelter, and felt safe away from her awful foster family and their despicable son
Other memories however, border on being GOOD…AND…Bad.
Those memories involve Remi’s older brother, ( by two years ) Sutton
Sutton is all dark, sullen, arrogant and absolutely beautiful.
The boy she felt instant chemistry with.
And he knows it.
He knows the power that comes with being good -looking, as the younger Aspen and Remi often witnessed conga line of female conquests doing the “ Walk of shame “ from Sutton s room.
But this does not stop Aspen at fourteen years old, from dreaming about what life would be like being with Sutton.
One night,..one party..The inevitable happens and the two end up sleeping together.
For Aspen, Sutton is her first, and she hopes, “ one and only”
For Sutton, who had been drinking, it’s a big, BIG mistake.
Even though he reluctantly admits to having some feeling for Aspen, he realises pretty quickly that things can go no further.
He leave her alone in a strange bed.
Fast forward to eight years later…
The now twenty-four year old, Remi and Aspen arrive for a week long celebrations,
Sutton also arrives.
Not alone.
He has his new stunning girlfriend Olivia by his side.
Let.The.Mind Games. Begin!
One week.
They have to try and all get through One. Week.
With Aspen never telling about her hook up with his brother, Remi continues to be the funny, caring friend he has always been.
The two of them so close, that family and friends wonder why they hadn’t married.
For Sutton, while Olivia has provided the perfect smoke screen to keep the dog as bay, and friends from pushing their daughters his way, he finds himself still entranced by Aspen, and the tight of stealing her from his brother, it and extra incentive to stir up trouble.
For Remi, behind his jovial manner, he has always been in love with Aspen, thus causing him to always place himself by her side, protecting her.
For Aspen she can barely think straight in the presents of Sutton, as memories continue to flood back.
One week.
Just One Week.
Can Aspen keep the secret that is, her and Sutton?
Knowing the devastation it would cause between her and Remi?
When ever there is a story where the female lead to placed in a close proximity situation with two brothers, one good, funny, good looking, the other, silken, moody, self-centred Beautiful.
You know…
Just KNOW!
The sweet guy doesn’t stand a chance.
This is the first book in a duet.
And I feel the next in the series will disappoint me.
Not for the writing, which is excellent.
Not for the characters
But because I know what the authors it boing to sacrifice one brother ( Remi ) for the other ( Sutton ) it’s going to break my heart .
Girl goes to the renewing of her best friend’s parents wedding vows ceremony.
The couple, Randel and Summer Barnett, practically raised her like their own
They were also the parents of her best friend Remi and his brother Sutton.
Remi.
He and Aspen, were inseparable from the age of eleven, now, at twenty-four they are just as close, if not more so, having both lived together for several years, and now only living a block away from each other in Washington DC.
(lived together until Remi’s extracurricular activities..*cough! ..Hook ups got to be too distracting )
So as they arrive back at Randle and Sumner’s house.
Aspen finds herself indulging in some if her childhood memories.
Some good, Some bad.
The good being the house were she took shelter, and felt safe away from her awful foster family and their despicable son
Other memories however, border on being GOOD…AND…Bad.
Those memories involve Remi’s older brother, ( by two years ) Sutton
Sutton is all dark, sullen, arrogant and absolutely beautiful.
The boy she felt instant chemistry with.
And he knows it.
He knows the power that comes with being good -looking, as the younger Aspen and Remi often witnessed conga line of female conquests doing the “ Walk of shame “ from Sutton s room.
But this does not stop Aspen at fourteen years old, from dreaming about what life would be like being with Sutton.
One night,..one party..The inevitable happens and the two end up sleeping together.
For Aspen, Sutton is her first, and she hopes, “ one and only”
For Sutton, who had been drinking, it’s a big, BIG mistake.
Even though he reluctantly admits to having some feeling for Aspen, he realises pretty quickly that things can go no further.
He leave her alone in a strange bed.
Fast forward to eight years later…
The now twenty-four year old, Remi and Aspen arrive for a week long celebrations,
Sutton also arrives.
Not alone.
He has his new stunning girlfriend Olivia by his side.
Let.The.Mind Games. Begin!
One week.
They have to try and all get through One. Week.
With Aspen never telling about her hook up with his brother, Remi continues to be the funny, caring friend he has always been.
The two of them so close, that family and friends wonder why they hadn’t married.
For Sutton, while Olivia has provided the perfect smoke screen to keep the dog as bay, and friends from pushing their daughters his way, he finds himself still entranced by Aspen, and the tight of stealing her from his brother, it and extra incentive to stir up trouble.
For Remi, behind his jovial manner, he has always been in love with Aspen, thus causing him to always place himself by her side, protecting her.
For Aspen she can barely think straight in the presents of Sutton, as memories continue to flood back.
One week.
Just One Week.
Can Aspen keep the secret that is, her and Sutton?
Knowing the devastation it would cause between her and Remi?
When ever there is a story where the female lead to placed in a close proximity situation with two brothers, one good, funny, good looking, the other, silken, moody, self-centred Beautiful.
You know…
Just KNOW!
The sweet guy doesn’t stand a chance.
This is the first book in a duet.
And I feel the next in the series will disappoint me.
Not for the writing, which is excellent.
Not for the characters
But because I know what the authors it boing to sacrifice one brother ( Remi ) for the other ( Sutton ) it’s going to break my heart .
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