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Addicted to You #1
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From bestselling and award winning author, Lydia Michaels, comes a gripping love triangle that grabs hold and doesn’t let go!
When Austin lost his job he began to question his dominant role as head of the household and his worth as a man. Self-doubt has infected his once perfect marriage, and now his submissive wife, December, must do whatever necessary to save their home. As Austin’s world spirals out of control, he enlists the help of his best friend, Cord. Only, Austin doesn’t realize Cord has secretly loved December since the day they met.
Cord’s honor is challenged. In the end, a sacrifice will be made, but who will forfeit first?
WARNING: This book contains subject matter suitable for mature reading audiences. Some content may be offensive to sensitive readers. Addicted to You is a ménage trilogy with many emotionally graphic encounters and challenging situations that break the rules of traditional romance.
When Austin lost his job he began to question his dominant role as head of the household and his worth as a man. Self-doubt has infected his once perfect marriage, and now his submissive wife, December, must do whatever necessary to save their home. As Austin’s world spirals out of control, he enlists the help of his best friend, Cord. Only, Austin doesn’t realize Cord has secretly loved December since the day they met.
Cord’s honor is challenged. In the end, a sacrifice will be made, but who will forfeit first?
WARNING: This book contains subject matter suitable for mature reading audiences. Some content may be offensive to sensitive readers. Addicted to You is a ménage trilogy with many emotionally graphic encounters and challenging situations that break the rules of traditional romance.
372 pages, Paperback
First published February 28, 2017
About the author
Lydia Michaels
64 books1,470 followersLydia Michaels is the award winning and bestselling author of over forty novels, including the groundbreaking collection, Write 10K in a Day. She is the consecutive winner of the 2018 & 2019 Author of the Year Award from Happenings Media, as well as the recipient of the 2014 Best Author Award from the Courier Times. She has been featured in USA Today, Romantic Times Magazine, Love & Lace, and more. As the host and founder of the East Coast Author Convention and the Behind the Keys Author Retreat, Lydia Michaels plays a respected role in the book community. When she’s not working on her next novel, she is accepting speaking engagements and using her platform to advocate for positive author business practices and doing whatever she can to empower female entrepreneurs around the world.
Lydia is happily married to her childhood sweetheart. Some of her favorite things include the scent of paperback books, listening to her husband play piano, escaping to her coastal home at the Jersey Shore, cheap wine, 80’s pop culture, coffee, and kilts. She hopes to meet you soon at one of her many upcoming events. Lydia is most active on Instagram @Lydia_Michaels_Books. You can also follow Lydia at www.Facebook.com/LydiaMichaels
Lydia is happily married to her childhood sweetheart. Some of her favorite things include the scent of paperback books, listening to her husband play piano, escaping to her coastal home at the Jersey Shore, cheap wine, 80’s pop culture, coffee, and kilts. She hopes to meet you soon at one of her many upcoming events. Lydia is most active on Instagram @Lydia_Michaels_Books. You can also follow Lydia at www.Facebook.com/LydiaMichaels
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 59 reviews
March 24, 2017
Oh-kay.. this was awesome. God this book!
full review to come.
full review to come.
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April 6, 2024💝💝 FREE on Amazon today (12/26/2017)! 💝💝
March 8, 2017
In the debut novel of her Degrees of Separation trilogy, Lydia Michaels confronts difficult issues on the most intimate level. Forfeit is not your light, sweet romance. Not even close. It’s brave, gritty, tender, and it’s real.
December and Austin had lived the ideal marriage for almost a decade. December loved her ordinary, traditional life where the husband was the head of the household and the wife was the heartbeat. Austin had known how much finally having a stable home life meant to December, and he’d given her that. He was her dominant man who usually read her needs before she could even identify them. They completed each other.
But after Austin lost his job, he became a husband “in a half- life of his own making”. In the 10 months Austin had been out of work, December was the one holding things together. Few job offers came in and those that did weren’t to Austin’s liking. December, who had left her job at Austin’s encouragement, was struggling to keep them afloat. Austin did nothing but drink and sleep. His lack of motivation was getting harder to deal with. December never blamed him for losing his job, but Austin was no longer the man she’d married. Where was her best friend, the man who always led? They hadn’t slept together in 10 months. Austin stayed up most of the night drinking and then slept most of the day, leaving December to take care of everything. When he was awake, it was like living with a ghost. His total disregard hurt. December tried to reason with him and encourage him to take any job or let her look for work, but every discussion ended in an argument. December didn’t expect to be treated like a princess, but Austin was the one who’d wanted her to quit her job. She understood that life could get hard, but Austin refused to ask anyone for help. She was tired of fighting.
At her wits end, December turned to Cord. Cord and Austin had been best friends since pre-school. Soon after Cord met December, he’d accepted her as a good friend too. Cord was shocked to discover how bad things had gotten. He knew Austin was out of work, had even offered him a job at his hardware store. He was angry with Austin for allowing things to get so bad, but he was also worried about his friend. And about December.
Cord loaned December money to help with some of their major bills and offered her a job at the store. He knew Austin wouldn’t like it but if he wasn’t going to get his act together, Cord couldn’t turn December down and watch them lose their house. December loved working at the store. She was excited to help customers and start making money again. She enjoyed being around Cord too. It was nice to enjoy easy conversation again. Cord praised her efforts too. She’d missed that.
But Austin wasn’t happy. When he finally was sober long enough to realize that December was working, he was livid, demanding she quit. But December stood strong. If Austin wasn’t going to look for a solution, then he’d have to accept the solution she chose. And so was their life. December working to hold things together while Austin was present but not really there. He promised to give up the booze and find work, but that didn’t last long. Within two weeks, he was back to his lifeless self and his choice of liquor was getting stronger. He lashed out and blamed December constantly. He even physically attacked Cord when Cord tried to reason with him.
After one vicious argument, December fled the house and ran to Cord. Cord had become as dependable as Austin had once been. December was distraught. Something happens to a woman when her husband no longer touches her or meets her needs. Insecurity, fear, and uncertainty begin to eat away at her. When December broke down to Cord, she welcomed his comforting hug. Just to have that human touch again. Cord wanted to comfort December but it was difficult. It was easy to see why Austin loved her. A part of him loved her too. “The trick was loving the right amount, something he struggled with, and not only in his relationship with December.” Holding her, he’d never experienced something that felt so right while knowing how wrong it was. He had to keep control. “Laying a hand on her would betray the secrets he’d guarded all these years.”
What a rollercoaster ride! How can a story be so painful yet I still can’t put it down? Lydia Michaels does an outstanding job of getting inside the mind of an addict and those who love him. You feel the personal and relationship struggles they face. I loved December, Cord, and even Austin. Flaws and all. I’m used to my romance heroes being virile and all manly, so when I see one completely shaken, I feel for him. This story will tie you in knots because you want them all to be happy yet their struggles are real and, at times, seem insurmountable. I am on pins and needles waiting for the next book. An emotionally powerful story with strong characters and a memorable plot that will reach you on multiple levels. A Book Obsessed Chicks Review Team Selection
December and Austin had lived the ideal marriage for almost a decade. December loved her ordinary, traditional life where the husband was the head of the household and the wife was the heartbeat. Austin had known how much finally having a stable home life meant to December, and he’d given her that. He was her dominant man who usually read her needs before she could even identify them. They completed each other.
But after Austin lost his job, he became a husband “in a half- life of his own making”. In the 10 months Austin had been out of work, December was the one holding things together. Few job offers came in and those that did weren’t to Austin’s liking. December, who had left her job at Austin’s encouragement, was struggling to keep them afloat. Austin did nothing but drink and sleep. His lack of motivation was getting harder to deal with. December never blamed him for losing his job, but Austin was no longer the man she’d married. Where was her best friend, the man who always led? They hadn’t slept together in 10 months. Austin stayed up most of the night drinking and then slept most of the day, leaving December to take care of everything. When he was awake, it was like living with a ghost. His total disregard hurt. December tried to reason with him and encourage him to take any job or let her look for work, but every discussion ended in an argument. December didn’t expect to be treated like a princess, but Austin was the one who’d wanted her to quit her job. She understood that life could get hard, but Austin refused to ask anyone for help. She was tired of fighting.
At her wits end, December turned to Cord. Cord and Austin had been best friends since pre-school. Soon after Cord met December, he’d accepted her as a good friend too. Cord was shocked to discover how bad things had gotten. He knew Austin was out of work, had even offered him a job at his hardware store. He was angry with Austin for allowing things to get so bad, but he was also worried about his friend. And about December.
Cord loaned December money to help with some of their major bills and offered her a job at the store. He knew Austin wouldn’t like it but if he wasn’t going to get his act together, Cord couldn’t turn December down and watch them lose their house. December loved working at the store. She was excited to help customers and start making money again. She enjoyed being around Cord too. It was nice to enjoy easy conversation again. Cord praised her efforts too. She’d missed that.
But Austin wasn’t happy. When he finally was sober long enough to realize that December was working, he was livid, demanding she quit. But December stood strong. If Austin wasn’t going to look for a solution, then he’d have to accept the solution she chose. And so was their life. December working to hold things together while Austin was present but not really there. He promised to give up the booze and find work, but that didn’t last long. Within two weeks, he was back to his lifeless self and his choice of liquor was getting stronger. He lashed out and blamed December constantly. He even physically attacked Cord when Cord tried to reason with him.
After one vicious argument, December fled the house and ran to Cord. Cord had become as dependable as Austin had once been. December was distraught. Something happens to a woman when her husband no longer touches her or meets her needs. Insecurity, fear, and uncertainty begin to eat away at her. When December broke down to Cord, she welcomed his comforting hug. Just to have that human touch again. Cord wanted to comfort December but it was difficult. It was easy to see why Austin loved her. A part of him loved her too. “The trick was loving the right amount, something he struggled with, and not only in his relationship with December.” Holding her, he’d never experienced something that felt so right while knowing how wrong it was. He had to keep control. “Laying a hand on her would betray the secrets he’d guarded all these years.”
What a rollercoaster ride! How can a story be so painful yet I still can’t put it down? Lydia Michaels does an outstanding job of getting inside the mind of an addict and those who love him. You feel the personal and relationship struggles they face. I loved December, Cord, and even Austin. Flaws and all. I’m used to my romance heroes being virile and all manly, so when I see one completely shaken, I feel for him. This story will tie you in knots because you want them all to be happy yet their struggles are real and, at times, seem insurmountable. I am on pins and needles waiting for the next book. An emotionally powerful story with strong characters and a memorable plot that will reach you on multiple levels. A Book Obsessed Chicks Review Team Selection
October 31, 2017
On one hand, I have all the sympathy for the main heroine. Girl, I've been there, done that, got a t-shirt. December herself is a sweet and kind soul. I instantly liked her. Cord was a typical hero material, and I enjoyed him as well. Austin was a typical alcoholic unable to get over his failures and major wounds to his ego.
What infuriated me was this complete lack of understanding of how to deal with alcoholism. Come on, guys! Have you heard of googling it? If my spouse or loved one had it, I'd sure as hell research everything I could to help them out. Telling someone to pull yourself together and stop doesn't cut it. That person can DIE from following such advice. You need medical help and supervision. Ugh! So, I don't recommend this book for this reason and probably won't bother reading the rest.
* * *
С одной стороны, я испытываю симпатию к главной героине. Я там был, мед, пиво пил и футболку получил. Декабрь - милая женщина, добрая и светлая. Да и Корд - лучший друг ее муж, герой, которого легко полюбить. Остин - типичный запойный алкоголик, потерявший работу и запивший, не в состоянии смриться с неудачей из-за своей гордыни.
Что довело меня до белого каления - это наивная вера Декабрь и Корда в то, что Остину надо просто собраться волей, бросить пить и привести себя в порядок. Ну, ребята, погуглите вы алкоголизм! Если он последует вот такому совету, он и умереть может! Ему нужна в начале медицинская помощь и наблюдение, чтобы высохнуть. Вот идиоты! Из-за этого продолжение прям читать не хочу.
What infuriated me was this complete lack of understanding of how to deal with alcoholism. Come on, guys! Have you heard of googling it? If my spouse or loved one had it, I'd sure as hell research everything I could to help them out. Telling someone to pull yourself together and stop doesn't cut it. That person can DIE from following such advice. You need medical help and supervision. Ugh! So, I don't recommend this book for this reason and probably won't bother reading the rest.
* * *
С одной стороны, я испытываю симпатию к главной героине. Я там был, мед, пиво пил и футболку получил. Декабрь - милая женщина, добрая и светлая. Да и Корд - лучший друг ее муж, герой, которого легко полюбить. Остин - типичный запойный алкоголик, потерявший работу и запивший, не в состоянии смриться с неудачей из-за своей гордыни.
Что довело меня до белого каления - это наивная вера Декабрь и Корда в то, что Остину надо просто собраться волей, бросить пить и привести себя в порядок. Ну, ребята, погуглите вы алкоголизм! Если он последует вот такому совету, он и умереть может! Ему нужна в начале медицинская помощь и наблюдение, чтобы высохнуть. Вот идиоты! Из-за этого продолжение прям читать не хочу.
February 10, 2017
I was given this book to read for an honest review.
I was completely floored when I read this book. This book will take you on a journey of a what true marriage is like. It will open you up with emotions that you may or can relate to. It is a realistic view as to what happens when an addiction takes over and the destruction that it can cause. This book made me cry, laugh and feel the pain of what Austin and Ember are going through. If you want a down to earth real life story that will touch your heart and soul, and send you on an emotional roller coaster, then Forfiet is it.
I was completely floored when I read this book. This book will take you on a journey of a what true marriage is like. It will open you up with emotions that you may or can relate to. It is a realistic view as to what happens when an addiction takes over and the destruction that it can cause. This book made me cry, laugh and feel the pain of what Austin and Ember are going through. If you want a down to earth real life story that will touch your heart and soul, and send you on an emotional roller coaster, then Forfiet is it.
April 27, 2021
My first book by Lydia Michael’s. This tells the story of a happy marriage that is impacted when financial strains are placed on a couple and the impact of alcohol and lack of intimacy on the struggling relationship.
March 13, 2017
I have read Lydia Michaels in the past and have enjoyed the depth of emotion that I've found in her stories. While I haven't read Allyson Young before, when my friend Trish recommended I check this out I didn't hesitate. The Degrees of Separation series is following a married couple, December and Austin, who love each other dearly but are stumbling across a hard rock in their marriage. Austin has been out of work for quite some time and this has caused some major financial problems. He's chosen to deal with this by drowning all his sorrows in alcohol and it's tearing his life and marriage apart.
Emotionally charged, FORFEIT lays the hearts of the characters open and invites you to go through their pains and struggles with them. Limits are tested, friendships are deepened. And hopefully true love perseveres in the end. But is true love as simple as we expect? Through the hardships in this book, their very good friend Cord is a strong support for both of his friends. While we don't know much about his own feelings I can't wait to explore more of it in the next book. I learned to love (and some hate) things about each of the characters and I'm fully invested in the outcome for them all.
I am always hard on books that show a real life struggle such as alcoholism because things are often romanticized or they miraculously overcome a problem that is so debilitating for most people. I am so glad this is not the direction the authors are taking with this series. I hated Austin at the same time my heart was breaking for his condition and ultimately the decision he makes at the end of this book. At the same time, the one bearing the aftermath of all this is December, his wife. She's left a bit broken, powerless to help the man she loves and unwanted by him as well. Their best friend is on the sidelines trying with everything he can to see his friends put together again while holding back his own feelings and emotions. ALL.THE.FEELS! Lots of raw, jagged emotions paint the pages of this story and I wish I had the next one already to find out what happens next. I'm sure things will get a lot messier before they get better. I have my expectations in my head and I hope that's where the authors are taking this story. ;) On a side note, I'm also very happy these are full length and not a "serial" so you do get quite a bit of story with each installment.
*ARC provided by publisher
Reviewed by Francesca
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March 1, 2017
4 Anticipation, emotionally charged stars!!
Source: eARC for Honest Review Courtesy of Authors
Genre: Erotic Romance Menage MMF
Part 1 in a new trilogy
My Forfeit Review . . .
I didn't know what to expect from this book largely in part because I refused to read the synopsis. All I saw was Lydia Michaels and I said YES!!!! And now I'm even more glad I didn't read the synopsis, because I was completely drawn into the story from the start with no expectations.
December and Austin have the quintessential relationship, where no one would doubt their love or passion. But that doesn't always hold true, and for December she learns this the hard way.
Austin's best friend Colt, has always been there for them, so when things go south December relies on Colt for help, but its not easy when Austin has his own demons and Colt has his own secrets.
This book sucked me in and I went along with the journey, now I can't wait to complete the trilogy to see how this is all going to play out for them.
This book in a trilogy is often hard because it's the set up of the story and it can either pull you in or turn you in the other direction. But with Forfeit I was pulled in and I know a thunderstorm of passion is in the horizon for these three. Can't wait!!
February 28, 2017
This book threw a curve ball at me . Oh t started out sexy and bam . You are taken in a totally different direction. The characters are complicated and complex . The story line s so good and dark . It is sent for the feint of heart . You will shed tears and want to throw your kindle across the room ,
December 12, 2017
No, nope and yuck. Not my thing. 1950's life style is not my cup of tea.
March 21, 2017
I have read Lydia Michaels in the past and have enjoyed the depth of emotion that I’ve found in her stories. While I haven’t read Allyson Young before, when my friend Trish recommended I check this out I didn’t hesitate. The Degrees of Separation series is following a married couple, December and Austin, who love each other dearly but are stumbling across a hard rock in their marriage. Austin has been out of work for quite some time and this has caused some major financial problems. He’s chosen to deal with this by drowning all his sorrows in alcohol and it’s tearing his life and marriage apart.
Emotionally charged, FORFEIT lays the hearts of the characters open and invites you to go through their pains and struggles with them. Limits are tested, friendships are deepened. And hopefully true love perseveres in the end. But is true love as simple as we expect? Through the hardships in this book, their very good friend Cord is a strong support for both of his friends. While we don’t know much about his own feelings I can’t wait to explore more of it in the next book. I learned to love (and some hate) things about each of the characters and I’m fully invested in the outcome for them all.
I am always hard on books that show a real life struggle such as alcoholism because things are often romanticized or they miraculously overcome a problem that is so debilitating for most people. I am so glad this is not the direction the authors are taking with this series. I hated Austin at the same time my heart was breaking for his condition and ultimately the decision he makes at the end of this book. At the same time, the one bearing the aftermath of all this is December, his wife. She’s left a bit broken, powerless to help the man she loves and unwanted by him as well. Their best friend is on the sidelines trying with everything he can to see his friends put together again while holding back his own feelings and emotions. ALL.THE.FEELS! Lots of raw, jagged emotions paint the pages of this story and I wish I had the next one already to find out what happens next. I’m sure things will get a lot messier before they get better. I have my expectations in my head and I hope that’s where the authors are taking this story. ;) On a side note, I’m also very happy these are full length and not a “serial” so you do get quite a bit of story with each installment.
April 3, 2017
I really loved this story so much so that I started Book 2 Lost Together immediately and fortunately for me it was on my kindle. I really enjoyed reading Forfeit. This is the first book in the Degrees of Separation trilogy. Things were going so well in December and Austin’s marriage until Austin loses his job. Austin has always been the dominate in their marriage and that is just how December has always wanted it. But, when after losing his job Austin starts drinking and not seeming to be worried about where the money is going to come from to pay the mortgage or even buying food.
Cord is Austin's best friend and he has loved December since he has known her. He would never think of doing anything with December even though he loves her but, she is married to his best friend. I am not going to say more because I don’t do Kindle. Do read the little warning prior to the start of this series. I give Forfeit 4.5 STARS.
I voluntarily reviewed an Advance Reader Copy of this book.
Cord is Austin's best friend and he has loved December since he has known her. He would never think of doing anything with December even though he loves her but, she is married to his best friend. I am not going to say more because I don’t do Kindle. Do read the little warning prior to the start of this series. I give Forfeit 4.5 STARS.
I voluntarily reviewed an Advance Reader Copy of this book.
July 23, 2017
This is the first time I have red anything from this author and I am so glad that I did. I fell in love with December and Austin's story. I love how Cord is trying to be the good guy but his emotions get the best of him. Part of me wants Austin to get his crap together but the other part of me is so mad at him and wants him to suffer. This book hits home for me my husband drank for the first ten years of our marriage and when I said I was leaving he quit. He has been sober 7 years now. I want December to be happy. I can't wait to finish this story. This book is everything I wanted and more.
March 8, 2017
Forfeit is a powerful look at a marriage in trouble. December (Ember) and Austin have the kind of love we all search our entire lives for. But, now that love is on the skids, thanks to Austin's drinking problem and the loss of his job. December and Austin's circumstances are so poor that she's reduced to begging the local gas company for a break on their debt just so they can have fuel to fire up their heater. As she's on the way back from her unsuccessful search for a company to give them a break in the dead of winter, her car goes off the side of the road, and Cord, Austin's best friend rescues her. I have to say that Cord is wonderful, the kind of guy women all over the world want: kind, compassionate, hard working, sexy and loves his best friends. He takes December into his home, gives her a job, and gives her the support Austin should have been giving her, but hasn't in nearly a year.
As Austin's drinking problem worsens, so does his marriage to December. And finally, she's had enough, and walks out on him, leaving him to fix himself because she realizes she can't be the one to fix him. Cord is there to pick up the pieces, not just for December, but for Austin, too. But, what Austin asks Cord to do at the end is honestly the most ridiculous, cruelest thing he could possibly have asked Cord to ever do. I kind of hate Austin at this point. He's selfish, self absorbed and cruel. And his actions at the end have me worrying and wondering how he can possibly fight his way out of the huge mess he's created. Neither December nor Cord deserve such a huge jackass in their lives, but hopefully something can be done in the next two installments of this trilogy.
If you love realism in your romances, I highly recommend you pick Forfeit up. If, however, you hate cliffhangers, you might want to wait until all three parts of the trilogy have been released.
I received an ARC through NetGalley for an honest review.
As Austin's drinking problem worsens, so does his marriage to December. And finally, she's had enough, and walks out on him, leaving him to fix himself because she realizes she can't be the one to fix him. Cord is there to pick up the pieces, not just for December, but for Austin, too. But, what Austin asks Cord to do at the end is honestly the most ridiculous, cruelest thing he could possibly have asked Cord to ever do. I kind of hate Austin at this point. He's selfish, self absorbed and cruel. And his actions at the end have me worrying and wondering how he can possibly fight his way out of the huge mess he's created. Neither December nor Cord deserve such a huge jackass in their lives, but hopefully something can be done in the next two installments of this trilogy.
If you love realism in your romances, I highly recommend you pick Forfeit up. If, however, you hate cliffhangers, you might want to wait until all three parts of the trilogy have been released.
I received an ARC through NetGalley for an honest review.
August 18, 2017
What a fantastic start to this trilogy!!! There were times where I wanted to both smack Austin upside his head, and pull him in to my arms to coddle him as he struggled against his demons. My heart broke for him, Cord, and December, and I honestly don't know which one I hurt for more. This first book has been a twisted ride, and I can't wait to jump in to the next!!! This is definitely a must read!!!
November 16, 2017
I am never disappointed in Lydia's book. She is extremely talented and ALWAYS gives me the feels. I laughed and cried in this heartbreaking book. The character development is strong and Lydia has a gift of putting the reader in the character's shoes and you actually believe you are them; hurting just as much as they are.
Wonderful read and I am desperate for the next book in the series.
Wonderful read and I am desperate for the next book in the series.
March 10, 2017
Inside the pages of this book lies a very Raw and Excruciatingly Emotional Downward Spiral of what was in the beginning a deeply in love married couple and how as the time goes on life happens , jobs are lost , Alcohol spills , lies flourish ,hearts are irrevocably broken and one friend tries to hold them together even though he hides secrets of his own.
I did love this story , not because of what happens to these characters , which was heartbreaking and sent me into my own depression , but because of the way it was written . It was as if the writers had been through a similar situation themselves , being themselves a friend or a loved one . I don't know , really , but you definitely FEEL every Chapter , Paragraph , Sentence and Word being portrayed through these pages by these three characters .
I felt so bad for Ember all she yearns for is her husband to be whole again , the man she married and promised to protect her to hold her and make everything alright .
You will over the course of this book HATE Austin immensely , even though you see that he's dealing with a lot of self loathing and depression. it's the deal he makes with Cord that seals his fate .
I Love Cord , he is a true friend , even though both Austin and Ember really had gone on with their lives after getting married , he stepped up and tried to come top both their rescue when in need ..it just sucks that certain things were waved in his face .
Keeping my eyes peeled for Vol two of the Degrees of Separation Trilogy
I did love this story , not because of what happens to these characters , which was heartbreaking and sent me into my own depression , but because of the way it was written . It was as if the writers had been through a similar situation themselves , being themselves a friend or a loved one . I don't know , really , but you definitely FEEL every Chapter , Paragraph , Sentence and Word being portrayed through these pages by these three characters .
I felt so bad for Ember all she yearns for is her husband to be whole again , the man she married and promised to protect her to hold her and make everything alright .
You will over the course of this book HATE Austin immensely , even though you see that he's dealing with a lot of self loathing and depression. it's the deal he makes with Cord that seals his fate .
I Love Cord , he is a true friend , even though both Austin and Ember really had gone on with their lives after getting married , he stepped up and tried to come top both their rescue when in need ..it just sucks that certain things were waved in his face .
Keeping my eyes peeled for Vol two of the Degrees of Separation Trilogy
February 28, 2017
I received a copy of this book for a fair and honest review.
I have read almost every single book from Lydia Michaels since 2013; this however is my first introduction to Allyson Young, so when I was asked to read it, I was beyond elated. The book flowed nicely from chapter to chapter; I could hardly tell who wrote which part. Their beautifully woven collaboration on this book/series is outstanding. "Forfeit" is part one of a three book series, please do not let this discourage you, the wait is worth every heart wrenching beat, every tear you will cry and every spontaneous laugh out loud moment you will endure, and every sigh that will escape from your lips.
Lydia and Allyson will bring you into the devastating world of Austin, December, and their best friend Cord. This book is sad, realistically sad as we know sometimes life can be. Within the first two chapters I didn’t know if I wanted to finish this book or series, not because it was horrible but because it was making me feel emotionally raw. I had given my word to read it, so I did. I am so glad I did! This book has blown me away. I can only tell you that with every flip of the page, every advancement with in a chapter, this book/ series gets more and more of everything. Trust me when I tell you, there is so much more to come!
I have read almost every single book from Lydia Michaels since 2013; this however is my first introduction to Allyson Young, so when I was asked to read it, I was beyond elated. The book flowed nicely from chapter to chapter; I could hardly tell who wrote which part. Their beautifully woven collaboration on this book/series is outstanding. "Forfeit" is part one of a three book series, please do not let this discourage you, the wait is worth every heart wrenching beat, every tear you will cry and every spontaneous laugh out loud moment you will endure, and every sigh that will escape from your lips.
Lydia and Allyson will bring you into the devastating world of Austin, December, and their best friend Cord. This book is sad, realistically sad as we know sometimes life can be. Within the first two chapters I didn’t know if I wanted to finish this book or series, not because it was horrible but because it was making me feel emotionally raw. I had given my word to read it, so I did. I am so glad I did! This book has blown me away. I can only tell you that with every flip of the page, every advancement with in a chapter, this book/ series gets more and more of everything. Trust me when I tell you, there is so much more to come!
March 9, 2017
Intense and well written. Realistic drama between husband and wife Austin and December - even though Austin's not doing well. Cord has issues of his own. Three people trying to cope - worth a read.
March 2, 2017
I was hooked from beginning to end and am looking forward to more in this trilogy. This is a fast paced read with lots of drama and emotion. I loved it!
June 3, 2017
What a fabulous way to start this trilogy! As I was reading this book I kept thinking why am I reading this book, I don't like this book...But then I had to step back and pay attention. You see some of this book seemed to mirror some of my life so long ago. Austin was so like my ex in this book, up to a certian point...I wanted to pop Austin on the back of his head and tell him to see what he was doing to his wife and best friend and hug December and tell her to hang in there it will get better. The characters of Austin, December, and Cord are complex and the real life issues are very complicated. You can't help but feel the emotional roller coaster these three go through. But wait there is more to come. I recommed this well written, emotional read.
February 13, 2017
Now, I like December. She is sweet and soft natured. I did enjoy this read and it was hard to feel December's pain. Cord is an alpha male. He takes charge and helps both Austin and Ember. His love for both of them is obvious and I liked it. He maintained his distance. The bomb Austin dropped makes this hard for Cord. I need to read the next book. Where does this author take us? It was well paced and did not feel rushed at all! It is as it should be. Cant wait to read the next in this series!
I received this ARC from the publisher via Net Galley for my honest review.
I received this ARC from the publisher via Net Galley for my honest review.
March 2, 2017
Forfeit (Degrees of Separation Trilogy 1) by Lydia Michaels is a tale of December, her husband Austin and his best friend Cord. They met at a festival one day but it was Austin who automatically knew December would be his wife. They have lived the story book life with Cord coming over every now and then for a cooked meal till a set of circumstances have left the trio estranged. It is these set of circumstances that have turned Austin and Decembers’ ideal life in shambles and she has no choice but to turn to Cord for help. This is a story I did not expect. Cord has always had feeling for December but he had put them aside for the sake of his best friend. Now his friend wants him to do for his wife what he is unable to do. This is a recipe for disaster but it definitely makes for a good story. I cannot wait to see how this situation will unfold. It can’t be good. It is like looking at a train wreck you know is going to happen but you can’t look away. I voluntarily read an Advanced Reader Copy of this book. I give this story 4.5 stars and I look forward to the next 2 book. Kudos on a fresh and original story.
April 25, 2023
This was very triggering for me.
A broken marriage ripping at the seams…
In the beginning you get a glimpse of how happy Austin and December were. How much love they had. But it is seemingly all stripped away… Their story starts but it’s already at an end. They are not the same happy, in love couple we saw them to be.
December is a lost soul because her husband has stripped away their happiness and love, unknowingly. She leans on his best friend, Cord, who has no idea how they’ve been living. He becomes this man in her life that she’s been craving…her husband.
A broken marriage ripping at the seams…
In the beginning you get a glimpse of how happy Austin and December were. How much love they had. But it is seemingly all stripped away… Their story starts but it’s already at an end. They are not the same happy, in love couple we saw them to be.
December is a lost soul because her husband has stripped away their happiness and love, unknowingly. She leans on his best friend, Cord, who has no idea how they’ve been living. He becomes this man in her life that she’s been craving…her husband.
September 29, 2017
In Forfeit we meet December and Austin.
They've been married for about a decade now.
They have THEIR IDEAL marriage.
Austin is the bread winner. The head of the family. He's the alpha dominant who's responsibility is to work and take care of his wife. Finically,physically and spiritually. Her needs are meet through him.
December keeps house. She's the queen of the castle. She depends on Austin for her well beings and she in return keeps the house running like clock work.
Their marriage and the roles that they both not only agreed to but also wanted isn't for everyone.
But it works perfectly for them. They are blissfully happy and content.
Until the day Austin loses his job. He's applied wherever he could. But no ones calling him back. The places that need people are not in accordance of his union. If he takes those types of jobs he loses his placement when work becomes available.
He starts drinking. Then the drinking turns into being a full blown alcoholic.
He neglects his home. He neglects his wife. He's become mean and verbally abusive.
It's been months since he's been out of work they're in debt. The debt has accumulated in the thousands of dollars.
December turns to their best friend Cord. He pays off their debt and gives her a job at his business.
Cord has known Austin since they were young kids. He'd do anything for him and in return for December as well. Cord fell in love with December the moment he laid eyes on her. But he stepped aside when Austin also fell for her. Cord has kept his feelings unwraps since the minute his best friend and her became a couple. But there's also another mystery to Cord.
When Austin is a somewhat of a revelation during a moment of soberity. He's asks the unthinkable of Cord and December.
Forfeit is a look into issues that are very much real,losing a job,a marriage on the brink of collapse and how each individual chooses to handle their situation when they reach rock bottom.
Amazing book!
They've been married for about a decade now.
They have THEIR IDEAL marriage.
Austin is the bread winner. The head of the family. He's the alpha dominant who's responsibility is to work and take care of his wife. Finically,physically and spiritually. Her needs are meet through him.
December keeps house. She's the queen of the castle. She depends on Austin for her well beings and she in return keeps the house running like clock work.
Their marriage and the roles that they both not only agreed to but also wanted isn't for everyone.
But it works perfectly for them. They are blissfully happy and content.
Until the day Austin loses his job. He's applied wherever he could. But no ones calling him back. The places that need people are not in accordance of his union. If he takes those types of jobs he loses his placement when work becomes available.
He starts drinking. Then the drinking turns into being a full blown alcoholic.
He neglects his home. He neglects his wife. He's become mean and verbally abusive.
It's been months since he's been out of work they're in debt. The debt has accumulated in the thousands of dollars.
December turns to their best friend Cord. He pays off their debt and gives her a job at his business.
Cord has known Austin since they were young kids. He'd do anything for him and in return for December as well. Cord fell in love with December the moment he laid eyes on her. But he stepped aside when Austin also fell for her. Cord has kept his feelings unwraps since the minute his best friend and her became a couple. But there's also another mystery to Cord.
When Austin is a somewhat of a revelation during a moment of soberity. He's asks the unthinkable of Cord and December.
Forfeit is a look into issues that are very much real,losing a job,a marriage on the brink of collapse and how each individual chooses to handle their situation when they reach rock bottom.
Amazing book!
Shelved as 'dnf'
February 3, 2020On the one hand, I adore how angsty this book is. It definitely sets the story up like there's going to be cheating in this series and Ember is going to leave Austin for Cord, but knowing this has a MMF endgame makes the story a bit easier to read. However, yes, the blurb does state that Ember is a submissive and Austin more dominant, but I guess I wasn't really expecting the very backwards roles they have for one another?
Austin moved Ember out to the middle of nowhere and even though she got a job in town, made her quit her job because he was the husband and wanted to be the "provider" for the household. It's evident that Austin hasn't been doing much the past 10 or so months even since getting laid off and Ember has taken on all the burdens of paying bills and keeping a roof over their heads while Austin somehow finds the money to drink night after night, and sleeps all day. Austin is a bunch of red flags, honestly, and I comes off as emotionally abusive.
Honestly, Ember should never have stayed and should have left him a long time ago. Using their good memories as an excuse that he'll get better? He's angry that she leaves the house to find a job or goes to his best friend for help after separating her from all her friends and family? I know we're not supposed to like Austin at this point, but she could have left him AND even Cord ages ago and probably have been in a much better place.
I'm just not willing to have to wade through two more books after this that are priced at $4.99 each to read on how the three characters get their HEA. Just doesn't seem worth it, when the story already starts from such a iffy place that I don't trust the author to do the story right.
DNF @ 53%.
Trigger warnings for using describing Ember's family as g*psies, alcoholism, and emotional abuse.
Austin moved Ember out to the middle of nowhere and even though she got a job in town, made her quit her job because he was the husband and wanted to be the "provider" for the household. It's evident that Austin hasn't been doing much the past 10 or so months even since getting laid off and Ember has taken on all the burdens of paying bills and keeping a roof over their heads while Austin somehow finds the money to drink night after night, and sleeps all day. Austin is a bunch of red flags, honestly, and I comes off as emotionally abusive.
Honestly, Ember should never have stayed and should have left him a long time ago. Using their good memories as an excuse that he'll get better? He's angry that she leaves the house to find a job or goes to his best friend for help after separating her from all her friends and family? I know we're not supposed to like Austin at this point, but she could have left him AND even Cord ages ago and probably have been in a much better place.
I'm just not willing to have to wade through two more books after this that are priced at $4.99 each to read on how the three characters get their HEA. Just doesn't seem worth it, when the story already starts from such a iffy place that I don't trust the author to do the story right.
DNF @ 53%.
Trigger warnings for using describing Ember's family as g*psies, alcoholism, and emotional abuse.
March 10, 2018
“Forfeit” is an emotional and sensitive story about three individuals; December, Austin, and Cord, and how true intimacy and friendship can take an unexpected turn when you least expect it.
Austin and Cord have been life-long friends who have always believed in the same values of working hard and to provide for a wife and family. In comes December. Her beauty captures the attention of both men but Austin wins her heart and takes her as his wife.
Over the years, December develops a deep friendship with Cord as well and learns that she can count on him as someone in her life that is like family.
The three seem to be inseparable and are living happily until life throws the married couple a curveball. Unable to deal with the unexpected change in life circumstances, Austin turns away from his wife and best friend Cord, and instead chooses to pick up a bottle. This causes a shift in the dynamics of all three of their relationships and they soon learn that nothing will ever be the same.
I feel that if I say any more about the story I would be giving too much away. Instead, I hope that you choose to pick up this intricate story so you can discover just how far one person might go to help and protect another.
Lydia is a beautiful storyteller and I am most certain you will enjoy this as much as I did.
Austin and Cord have been life-long friends who have always believed in the same values of working hard and to provide for a wife and family. In comes December. Her beauty captures the attention of both men but Austin wins her heart and takes her as his wife.
Over the years, December develops a deep friendship with Cord as well and learns that she can count on him as someone in her life that is like family.
The three seem to be inseparable and are living happily until life throws the married couple a curveball. Unable to deal with the unexpected change in life circumstances, Austin turns away from his wife and best friend Cord, and instead chooses to pick up a bottle. This causes a shift in the dynamics of all three of their relationships and they soon learn that nothing will ever be the same.
I feel that if I say any more about the story I would be giving too much away. Instead, I hope that you choose to pick up this intricate story so you can discover just how far one person might go to help and protect another.
Lydia is a beautiful storyteller and I am most certain you will enjoy this as much as I did.
May 12, 2019
An emotional start…
Cord, Austin, Ember… Friends, the best of friends, but things have changed. Best friends are strangers and the most loving couple are cold and distant. How bad it is now is a measure of how good it was before…
Ember and Austin had a relationship with defined roles, roles they both embraced completely. Loving, fully supportive, they loved each other, their life and Cord, a friend who fit into their life seamlessly. When Austin dropped off the rails, however, all that was good turned into resentment, sorrow and anger. Too bad the love didn’t fade as well…
Be prepared for all the feels as I felt every slight, every burst of anger and bark of frustration. The coldness was hard to take but the uncertainty even more. Austin’s solution was intriguing to say the least and tested their bonds to the breaking point. While I’m not all in on how it is playing out, I’m heavily invested in the characters and where their path is taking them. I need to know how this plays out!
*Thank you to NetGalley
Cord, Austin, Ember… Friends, the best of friends, but things have changed. Best friends are strangers and the most loving couple are cold and distant. How bad it is now is a measure of how good it was before…
Ember and Austin had a relationship with defined roles, roles they both embraced completely. Loving, fully supportive, they loved each other, their life and Cord, a friend who fit into their life seamlessly. When Austin dropped off the rails, however, all that was good turned into resentment, sorrow and anger. Too bad the love didn’t fade as well…
Be prepared for all the feels as I felt every slight, every burst of anger and bark of frustration. The coldness was hard to take but the uncertainty even more. Austin’s solution was intriguing to say the least and tested their bonds to the breaking point. While I’m not all in on how it is playing out, I’m heavily invested in the characters and where their path is taking them. I need to know how this plays out!
*Thank you to NetGalley
September 23, 2017
???
I read this because I was a fan of Lydia Michaels and her book "Breaking Perfect" is one of my few favorites. I was so disappointed by this story. He characters were all right, and maybe it's just me and my dislike for stereotypical gender roles, but I could not stand how on almost every page there was something about what a woman's job was and what a man's job was. I feel like the whole story took forever to get started, and then when it did, half of it was an explanation of how the woman stays at home, and the other half was the men acting childish and not listening to Ember. I want to know how their story ends, but I don't know if I can bring myself to read another book in this series
I read this because I was a fan of Lydia Michaels and her book "Breaking Perfect" is one of my few favorites. I was so disappointed by this story. He characters were all right, and maybe it's just me and my dislike for stereotypical gender roles, but I could not stand how on almost every page there was something about what a woman's job was and what a man's job was. I feel like the whole story took forever to get started, and then when it did, half of it was an explanation of how the woman stays at home, and the other half was the men acting childish and not listening to Ember. I want to know how their story ends, but I don't know if I can bring myself to read another book in this series
March 31, 2023
An enjoyable and fairly fast-paced read I didn’t expect to like as much as I did.
You get to know the three main characters without delving in too much into their history or psyche which is fine because it is a trilogy so I felt like, if done correctly, the story as a whole will be incredibly satisfying without being too repetitive. I loved the triple POV. I know that is uncommon in books but given the nature of the plot it lends to the character development without being superfluous.
I know the subject matter walks a fine line for many but I think the author does a fantastic job of walking that tight rope. None of the characters are perfect but they also aren’t bad people, not at their core, which I think makes for the best stories.
You get to know the three main characters without delving in too much into their history or psyche which is fine because it is a trilogy so I felt like, if done correctly, the story as a whole will be incredibly satisfying without being too repetitive. I loved the triple POV. I know that is uncommon in books but given the nature of the plot it lends to the character development without being superfluous.
I know the subject matter walks a fine line for many but I think the author does a fantastic job of walking that tight rope. None of the characters are perfect but they also aren’t bad people, not at their core, which I think makes for the best stories.
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