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Forever and All the Afters
He promised me forever.
Then he boarded a plane for a college a thousand miles away and never returned. A decade later there’s a ring on my finger with a new promise from a new love.
Just as my life falls into place, pretty as the pages of a magazine, my world is knocked over. The moment he touches me everything around me begins to crack, exposing all the lies I’ve told myself.
Every glance reminds me. Every touch ignites.
Things aren’t how they used to be.
Love isn’t easy.
Then he boarded a plane for a college a thousand miles away and never returned. A decade later there’s a ring on my finger with a new promise from a new love.
Just as my life falls into place, pretty as the pages of a magazine, my world is knocked over. The moment he touches me everything around me begins to crack, exposing all the lies I’ve told myself.
Every glance reminds me. Every touch ignites.
Things aren’t how they used to be.
Love isn’t easy.
First published September 23, 2019
About the author
K.I. Lynn
52 books3,861 followersK.I. Lynn is the USA Today Bestselling Author from The Bend Anthology, Amazon Bestseller Becoming Mrs. Lockwood, and the Amazon Bestselling Series, Breach. She spent her life in the arts, everything from music to painting and ceramics, then to writing. Characters have always run around in her head, acting out their stories, but it wasn't until later in life she would put them to pen. It would turn out to be the one thing she was really passionate about.
Since she began posting stories online, she's garnered acclaim for her diverse stories and hard hitting writing style. Two stories and characters are never the same, her brain moving through different ideas faster than she can write them down as it also plots its quest for world domination...or cheese. Whichever is easier to obtain... Usually it's cheese.
Since she began posting stories online, she's garnered acclaim for her diverse stories and hard hitting writing style. Two stories and characters are never the same, her brain moving through different ideas faster than she can write them down as it also plots its quest for world domination...or cheese. Whichever is easier to obtain... Usually it's cheese.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 121 reviews
September 26, 2019
4 stars
Forever and all the Afters is an angsty and emotional second chance romance.
Aubrey and Pike were each others first loves, and Aubrey thought they were forever. Then Pike went to college out of state and even after his schooling was over, he never came back. Now, ten years later, Aubrey is engaged to be married to someone else. On the outside, it looks like she has it all, but her fiancé isn’t the best guy.
Pike is back in town to claim his girl. Even though she’s with someone else, she’s always belonged to him. Pike is sweet, kind, and a great guy. You can tell he truly loves Aubrey and wants her happy, and he can tell deep down she’s not. And he never has been happy, not truly. Not without her.
I didn’t love the choice Pike made in the past and I definitely wasn’t a fan of some of Aubrey’s current choices … but I was happy with the way it turned out in the end. I love reading stories about first loves that get a second chance, even if the road to get there is a bit messy.
As always, KI Lynn’s writing is fantastic. I adore her style and her stories. This one was hard hitting and brought me to tears more than once. It also really stressed me out while reading, but the end my heart was happy. If you’re a lover of second chance romances, love-triangle(ish) reads, and love the angst, pick this one up!!
Forever and all the Afters is an angsty and emotional second chance romance.
Aubrey and Pike were each others first loves, and Aubrey thought they were forever. Then Pike went to college out of state and even after his schooling was over, he never came back. Now, ten years later, Aubrey is engaged to be married to someone else. On the outside, it looks like she has it all, but her fiancé isn’t the best guy.
Pike is back in town to claim his girl. Even though she’s with someone else, she’s always belonged to him. Pike is sweet, kind, and a great guy. You can tell he truly loves Aubrey and wants her happy, and he can tell deep down she’s not. And he never has been happy, not truly. Not without her.
There’s never been anyone else for me. If I’m able to break down her walls, if I can just get the chance to be with her again, I’m never going to let her go. I love her. Never stopped loving her.
I didn’t love the choice Pike made in the past and I definitely wasn’t a fan of some of Aubrey’s current choices … but I was happy with the way it turned out in the end. I love reading stories about first loves that get a second chance, even if the road to get there is a bit messy.
As always, KI Lynn’s writing is fantastic. I adore her style and her stories. This one was hard hitting and brought me to tears more than once. It also really stressed me out while reading, but the end my heart was happy. If you’re a lover of second chance romances, love-triangle(ish) reads, and love the angst, pick this one up!!
September 21, 2019
FOREVER AND ALL THE AFTERS: Is a full length, slow burn second chance romance. Spoken in 'Dual Perspectives.'
A heart warming, all the feels, emotional rollercoaster of a ride..
In stories like this there's always a villain, one character that we just don't connect with like the other, and it's the other that all us readers root for and this story is no different. I liked one male character by far over the other and was glad how the author wrapped this one up.
What happens when the one you gave your everything too left to go away to college, her highschool sweetheart..The one that promised you forever..But he's never to be heard from again. No correspondence whatsoever..Your first love..Your soul mate..Aubrey is the one left behind. Heart broken.
5 years go by and now he's back..Ready to claim what he left behind..
BUT Aubrey has moved on, with her new love interest Caleb, a controlling, possessive, manipulative, driven man..But Aubrey doesn't see these flaws. She's too in love. She's busy planning her special day.
BUT slowly she sees what life would be like with Pike, a man that loves her for her, who doesn't want to change her.
NOW she's left floundering, questioning everything.. Is Caleb really the one for her or do second chances really exist?
* Teaser used is off the authors facebook page *
October 7, 2019
Really?
After 10 years he come back and tell her “I love you ever and forever” and the fiancé is a bad guy, come on... it’s easier this way!
The female character isn’t strong and charismatic.
Unfortunately I didn’t like this book!!! 🤷🏻♀️
After 10 years he come back and tell her “I love you ever and forever” and the fiancé is a bad guy, come on... it’s easier this way!
The female character isn’t strong and charismatic.
Unfortunately I didn’t like this book!!! 🤷🏻♀️
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
September 16, 2019
I spent my evening devouring this book in one sitting and I absolutely loved it.
When Pike went off to college in New York all the promises of "forever" he said to Aubrey was just words that left her devastated. It took time for Aubrey to move on from her first love. Years have passed, finished college and proud owner of Designs With Hart, an interior design company. But when it comes to the affair of the heart, she's now engaged to Caleb. A man who won't leave her. She did move on or that's what she tries to convince herself every day. But something unexpected happened...
"...how in the world would the two of us end up at the same place at the same time? I draw in a ragged breath as heat surges through my body. One man in my entire life made me feel this way. Only one."Pike's here. Why did he come back after all these years? To get Aubrey back? But she's not the same girl he left years ago and I'll stop there because I don't want to spoil anything for you.
Forever and All The Afters gave me all the feels as I uncover more about these characters. This book has romance, passion, angst, and love with all its complexity. K.I. Lynn always impressed me on how she writes and this story absolutely blew me away. It's a complete story and a beautiful book to be lost in. A must-read from this author.
Note: ARC provided by the author in exchange for an honest review.
September 29, 2019
Spoilers
.
.
.
This is the story of Aubrey and Pike, young lovers who got separated when he went to college, and basically never contacted her again because he felt they were too young and were going to be separated by thousands of miles. In the story Aubrey in present day is engaged to Caleb, and Pike has returned, because he wants her back now that he knows she is engaged.
First, I do want to give the author credit for letting the heroine move on in this second chance, she had two relationships, she had sex etc so I always want to encourage that in authors, because too few do it. HOWEVER, while I loved that I hated the framing of it. She had two boyfriends Jack in college, a nice guy and now Caleb, who is a huge asshole. She has never had an orgasm with either of them, and I just hate that crap. Pike had plenty of girlfriends, they both kept tabs on each other through Facebook so she got to see them all, and I am going to bet he got off every single time he slept with them, so it just annoys me that heroines aren't allowed to enjoy sex too. Why is it considered a slight against the hero if she has had an orgasm before but not vice versa? Also, I just didn't like how villainous Caleb was made so Pike would look better. Pike's reasoning for leaving her was WEAK, like he basically wanted to play the field first and then he realized he wanted her, so it just didn't work for me. The author tried to make it work by making Caleb a psycho, and i Just hate those cop outs. Yes men like Caleb do exist, and I wouldn't be opposed to the storyline offhand but it was just the blatant way it was used to make Pike look like her savior that annoyed me. He left her for a weak reason for years, had his fun, and now he is back and can read her, see she is changing for Caleb and all this stuff that would imply they had this impactful connection, but the dichotomy of that and why he left her for years just doesn't work. A man who knew her that well and loved her that much would never have left her as easily as he did, so while I don't oppose the plot points on their own, they did not work for me as a constructed story. I just didn't believe in Pikes love for her.
Anyways, love she moved on, hated how it was framed.
I would say this book is not safe. The sex scenes with Caleb, while not sexy or romantic at all, are descriptive, basically he .
.
.
.
This is the story of Aubrey and Pike, young lovers who got separated when he went to college, and basically never contacted her again because he felt they were too young and were going to be separated by thousands of miles. In the story Aubrey in present day is engaged to Caleb, and Pike has returned, because he wants her back now that he knows she is engaged.
First, I do want to give the author credit for letting the heroine move on in this second chance, she had two relationships, she had sex etc so I always want to encourage that in authors, because too few do it. HOWEVER, while I loved that I hated the framing of it. She had two boyfriends Jack in college, a nice guy and now Caleb, who is a huge asshole. She has never had an orgasm with either of them, and I just hate that crap. Pike had plenty of girlfriends, they both kept tabs on each other through Facebook so she got to see them all, and I am going to bet he got off every single time he slept with them, so it just annoys me that heroines aren't allowed to enjoy sex too. Why is it considered a slight against the hero if she has had an orgasm before but not vice versa? Also, I just didn't like how villainous Caleb was made so Pike would look better. Pike's reasoning for leaving her was WEAK, like he basically wanted to play the field first and then he realized he wanted her, so it just didn't work for me. The author tried to make it work by making Caleb a psycho, and i Just hate those cop outs. Yes men like Caleb do exist, and I wouldn't be opposed to the storyline offhand but it was just the blatant way it was used to make Pike look like her savior that annoyed me. He left her for a weak reason for years, had his fun, and now he is back and can read her, see she is changing for Caleb and all this stuff that would imply they had this impactful connection, but the dichotomy of that and why he left her for years just doesn't work. A man who knew her that well and loved her that much would never have left her as easily as he did, so while I don't oppose the plot points on their own, they did not work for me as a constructed story. I just didn't believe in Pikes love for her.
Anyways, love she moved on, hated how it was framed.
I would say this book is not safe. The sex scenes with Caleb, while not sexy or romantic at all, are descriptive, basically he .
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September 24, 201935% and I'm done, finished and not even sympathizing with any of these characters. I'm not usually willing to DNF a book in such a short time span -- but I swear I can't even begin to tell you how revolting it was to read about Caleb, a manipulative jerk of the first order. He is a classic abuser. And Bree - well that poor girl was just a spineless slave to the pervert. She tries to convince herself that he does all he does in the name of love. Get a life, girlfriend! And then there's Pike, the ex who returns home after years away, who is driveling out nonsensical excuses. He did, however, have a bit of kindness in his heart. But his excuses were far from being solid and relatable. Wow! I don't know when I've ever read such a weak and disturbing second chance trope-- just pitiful. And I don't think I've ever written such harsh words on a DNF reading experience.
So, no shocker that I won't be rating this book -- or that I did take advantage of the return policy Amazon offers. I see a lot of 5-star ratings, so maybe it's just me. But this one definitely had a sickening negative effect on me -- did not work in any manner and felt like a big waste of reading time, along with fact that it didn't include one thing I found likable in the 35% I did read.
So, no shocker that I won't be rating this book -- or that I did take advantage of the return policy Amazon offers. I see a lot of 5-star ratings, so maybe it's just me. But this one definitely had a sickening negative effect on me -- did not work in any manner and felt like a big waste of reading time, along with fact that it didn't include one thing I found likable in the 35% I did read.
September 23, 2019
There’s something about first loves that really hits me right in the feels. Aubrey and Pike were meant to be the forever after, the end game, but when he goes away to college things changed.
Let me start off with, I absolutely hated Aubrey’s fiancé Caleb! If there was ever a moment I could jump into a book and beat a person up it would be every time I read a part with Caleb in it. I could feel my blood pressure rise every time he had a part in the story.
Pike and Aubrey, I loved. I just wish Aubrey was a stronger woman. This story very much drew all kinds of emotions out of me. It had passion, love, angst, anger, and sadness. I felt like I went through every emotion reading this story.
*an arc was provided in exchange foe an honest review* ~Alison
Let me start off with, I absolutely hated Aubrey’s fiancé Caleb! If there was ever a moment I could jump into a book and beat a person up it would be every time I read a part with Caleb in it. I could feel my blood pressure rise every time he had a part in the story.
Pike and Aubrey, I loved. I just wish Aubrey was a stronger woman. This story very much drew all kinds of emotions out of me. It had passion, love, angst, anger, and sadness. I felt like I went through every emotion reading this story.
*an arc was provided in exchange foe an honest review* ~Alison
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August 12, 2019Forever and All the Afters is releasing September 23rd!
He promised me forever.
Then he boarded a plane for a college a thousand miles away and never returned. A decade later there’s a ring on my finger with a new promise from a new love.
Just as my life falls into place, pretty as the pages of a magazine, my world is knocked over. The moment he touches me everything around me begins to crack, exposing all the lies I’ve told myself.
Every glance reminds me. Every touch ignites.
Things aren’t how they used to be.
Love isn’t easy.
Bloggers I would be so grateful for your help! If you are interested, please fill out this form <3 - Sign-up: http://bit.ly/2yMme09
He promised me forever.
Then he boarded a plane for a college a thousand miles away and never returned. A decade later there’s a ring on my finger with a new promise from a new love.
Just as my life falls into place, pretty as the pages of a magazine, my world is knocked over. The moment he touches me everything around me begins to crack, exposing all the lies I’ve told myself.
Every glance reminds me. Every touch ignites.
Things aren’t how they used to be.
Love isn’t easy.
Bloggers I would be so grateful for your help! If you are interested, please fill out this form <3 - Sign-up: http://bit.ly/2yMme09
September 26, 2019
This one didn't work for me.
They were described as soulmates then he goes away to study.
During separation, they both dated others, but it seems he ghosted her then she sees him with a new girlfriend on Facebook.
This is one of the conversations about the separation.
"“You weren’t the only one hurting, you know.”
I really don’t want to continue our conversation, but he just won’t let it go. “You expect me to believe you were crying about me in the pillow of your new girlfriend’s boobs?”
He flinches. “When I left, I made no promises to you. It wasn’t logical to string us both along.”
“What does logic have to do with love?”
“Because sometimes the head knows what the heart doesn’t want to face. Five years. A thousand miles. For fuck’s sake, we were teenagers, Aubrey! Moving on was what I thought was best for both of us.”
I snap my head to look at him. “Best for us? Finding out you were over me in no time because you posted a pic on social media with your new girlfriend was what was best for us?”
“I never…We weren’t together.”
“Maybe not physically, but spiritually.”
“We talked. I thought you understood.”
“I understood my boyfriend telling me he would always love me.”
“That never changed.”
I blink at him in confusion. “What?”
“I never stopped loving you. No matter how hard I tried.”
“You’re saying all the women you dated were just to get your rocks off?”
“They were all to help me forget you. To help me maybe have some semblance of normal. To give me hopes of finding someone, anyone, who could mean more to me than you do. But I never could. It was always you, Aubrey. It will always be you.”"
I realise that they were young and you can't put your life on hold if you need to sort out a career but it felt to me he wanted to play the field then when that didn't work for him, he returned home for her, expecting her to be waiting for him.
He makes the point she dated too but she had said that it was only after she realised he'd moved on with his life.
But then the another explanation comes later.
"Never did I believe helping Tammi out would hit me with repercussions years later. “She needed help with an ex who wouldn’t back off, so we pretended to be a couple until he got the picture and left her alone. Kisses to the cheek and hand holding. Just a show. Only a show, and never more. It was over a year after I left before I dated anyone.”
By the set of her jaw, I can tell I’m not getting through to her. She’s believed it for so long it’s hard for her to see any other truth.
“You seem to have a lot of fake girlfriends.”
“I had a lot of friends who were girls. They knew I wasn’t going to try anything and would protect them from other guys.”
“Saint Pike.”
“Four years.”
“What?”
“That’s how long it’s been since I dated anyone. And she broke up with me because of you, because of my feelings for you that she could never measure up to. It was unfair of me, leading them on, though I didn’t go out with that intention. I did date women who were different looking than you, because every time I saw a woman with blonde hair, all I could think about was you. And I couldn’t stand wishing they were you.”"
So it was a misunderstanding.
The heroine is engaged to someone else and of course he is controlling, bordering on abusive, he can't be just a regular nice guy, she couldn't possibly have found happiness elsewhere.
The fiance is so OTT and is not subtle in his abuse and it's as if she is only just noticing, although her best friend has a strong opinion on him so he hasn't suddenly changed.
There is intimacy between the heroine and the fiance and flashback memories of intimacy with the so called Hero.
It felt to me that the author decided to write he cheated then changed her mind so added the other bit.
I know my opinion may not be popular but no, just no.
They were described as soulmates then he goes away to study.
During separation, they both dated others, but it seems he ghosted her then she sees him with a new girlfriend on Facebook.
This is one of the conversations about the separation.
"“You weren’t the only one hurting, you know.”
I really don’t want to continue our conversation, but he just won’t let it go. “You expect me to believe you were crying about me in the pillow of your new girlfriend’s boobs?”
He flinches. “When I left, I made no promises to you. It wasn’t logical to string us both along.”
“What does logic have to do with love?”
“Because sometimes the head knows what the heart doesn’t want to face. Five years. A thousand miles. For fuck’s sake, we were teenagers, Aubrey! Moving on was what I thought was best for both of us.”
I snap my head to look at him. “Best for us? Finding out you were over me in no time because you posted a pic on social media with your new girlfriend was what was best for us?”
“I never…We weren’t together.”
“Maybe not physically, but spiritually.”
“We talked. I thought you understood.”
“I understood my boyfriend telling me he would always love me.”
“That never changed.”
I blink at him in confusion. “What?”
“I never stopped loving you. No matter how hard I tried.”
“You’re saying all the women you dated were just to get your rocks off?”
“They were all to help me forget you. To help me maybe have some semblance of normal. To give me hopes of finding someone, anyone, who could mean more to me than you do. But I never could. It was always you, Aubrey. It will always be you.”"
I realise that they were young and you can't put your life on hold if you need to sort out a career but it felt to me he wanted to play the field then when that didn't work for him, he returned home for her, expecting her to be waiting for him.
He makes the point she dated too but she had said that it was only after she realised he'd moved on with his life.
But then the another explanation comes later.
"Never did I believe helping Tammi out would hit me with repercussions years later. “She needed help with an ex who wouldn’t back off, so we pretended to be a couple until he got the picture and left her alone. Kisses to the cheek and hand holding. Just a show. Only a show, and never more. It was over a year after I left before I dated anyone.”
By the set of her jaw, I can tell I’m not getting through to her. She’s believed it for so long it’s hard for her to see any other truth.
“You seem to have a lot of fake girlfriends.”
“I had a lot of friends who were girls. They knew I wasn’t going to try anything and would protect them from other guys.”
“Saint Pike.”
“Four years.”
“What?”
“That’s how long it’s been since I dated anyone. And she broke up with me because of you, because of my feelings for you that she could never measure up to. It was unfair of me, leading them on, though I didn’t go out with that intention. I did date women who were different looking than you, because every time I saw a woman with blonde hair, all I could think about was you. And I couldn’t stand wishing they were you.”"
So it was a misunderstanding.
The heroine is engaged to someone else and of course he is controlling, bordering on abusive, he can't be just a regular nice guy, she couldn't possibly have found happiness elsewhere.
The fiance is so OTT and is not subtle in his abuse and it's as if she is only just noticing, although her best friend has a strong opinion on him so he hasn't suddenly changed.
There is intimacy between the heroine and the fiance and flashback memories of intimacy with the so called Hero.
It felt to me that the author decided to write he cheated then changed her mind so added the other bit.
I know my opinion may not be popular but no, just no.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
September 22, 2019
Gah this story 😍 nothing like first loves that were always meant to be. Pike is perfect, well besides waiting a decade to come back for the woman he loves but that's what makes the story that much sweeter. I loved everything about this story Aubrey had an amazing network of work friends and Nora (She was hilarious). My favorite quote from the book sums up the entire story in my opinion:
“I’m in love with you, Aubrey. I’ve never stopped being in love with you.”
This was a wonderful read that I devoured in a day I couldn't put it down 🖤
“I’m in love with you, Aubrey. I’ve never stopped being in love with you.”
This was a wonderful read that I devoured in a day I couldn't put it down 🖤
September 23, 2019
Pike is my all time most swoony man. I heart this story from start to finish. Well done
September 26, 2019
Same crap. Different day. What’s with 10 years. That seems to be the magic number in these second chance romances.
September 20, 2019
First let me start by saying I adored this. It was a very good read. In fact I stayed up all night reading it. But there’s one issue I have and before I get into it let me just scream SPOILER!!!
Okay are they gone? Okay I HATE Aubrey. I hated her from the first couple of second and I couldn’t figure out why. It wasn’t until she sees Pike again that I started to like her. And in the end I truly loved that character. As you read this you’ll probably get what I mean. Her fiancé is an ass, she’s still in love with her high school boyfriend and her life isn’t as amazing as it seems. You start to see the cracks pretty quickly and realize they’re not just cracks they’re damn craters marked with red flags. I personally have been in bad relationships and I know first hand you don’t see the signs until it’s almost too late. Much like what happens to Aubrey.
All in all I love this story. But more importantly I love the message it gives up. Not everyone sees what’s going on in their life with clear eyes. Sometimes it takes someone else. Someone who has walked into the picture to truly get you to see things clearly. And most importantly that sometimes your first love doesn’t just go away.
Okay are they gone? Okay I HATE Aubrey. I hated her from the first couple of second and I couldn’t figure out why. It wasn’t until she sees Pike again that I started to like her. And in the end I truly loved that character. As you read this you’ll probably get what I mean. Her fiancé is an ass, she’s still in love with her high school boyfriend and her life isn’t as amazing as it seems. You start to see the cracks pretty quickly and realize they’re not just cracks they’re damn craters marked with red flags. I personally have been in bad relationships and I know first hand you don’t see the signs until it’s almost too late. Much like what happens to Aubrey.
All in all I love this story. But more importantly I love the message it gives up. Not everyone sees what’s going on in their life with clear eyes. Sometimes it takes someone else. Someone who has walked into the picture to truly get you to see things clearly. And most importantly that sometimes your first love doesn’t just go away.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
September 25, 2019
This is my first book by this author and I loved it. Pike and Aubrey were a great couple. I could feel the love they had for each other and it was a wonderful feeling. Where can I find a guy like Pike? I need something like that in my life. I had tears in my eyes as I was reading this story. I understand completely what Aubrey was going through. She didn’t know what she was getting into until it was too late. She thought he wanted what was best for her and it wasn’t. He was slowly pulling her away and keeping her to himself while doing what he wanted to do. This book was close to my heart. I am glad that she was able to get away.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
September 23, 2019
I received a copy of this book from the author/publisher to review for Stephanie's Book Reports.
He promised me forever. Then he boarded a plane for college a thousand miles away and never returned. A decade later there's a ring on my finger with a promise from a new love. Just as my life fall into place, pretty as the pages of a magazine, my world is knocked over. The moment he touches me everything around me begins to crack, exposing all the lies I've told myself. Every glance reminds me. Every touch ignite. Things aren't how they used to be. Love isn't easy.
This is the story of Pike and Aubrey. These two were one of the greats. They were each others first loves and they made many promises to each other before Pike left and went to college. A college he didn't not come home from until a decade later. Now that Aubrey is engaged to Caleb, of course Pike comes back promising her things she doesn't want to hear. This is a story of first love. A love that never dies. A story of a lady who is in love really with two men. This is the story of how your first love never really leaves your heart no matter how hard you try to kick it out. I thought this book was so beautifully written and such an story that will melt a lot of hearts and ring true for some people. I could so feel the emotions pouring off the pages. I also have to mention that Aubrey has a group of friends that really support her and are really really hilarious!! You are going to love this book. Don't miss it!
He promised me forever. Then he boarded a plane for college a thousand miles away and never returned. A decade later there's a ring on my finger with a promise from a new love. Just as my life fall into place, pretty as the pages of a magazine, my world is knocked over. The moment he touches me everything around me begins to crack, exposing all the lies I've told myself. Every glance reminds me. Every touch ignite. Things aren't how they used to be. Love isn't easy.
This is the story of Pike and Aubrey. These two were one of the greats. They were each others first loves and they made many promises to each other before Pike left and went to college. A college he didn't not come home from until a decade later. Now that Aubrey is engaged to Caleb, of course Pike comes back promising her things she doesn't want to hear. This is a story of first love. A love that never dies. A story of a lady who is in love really with two men. This is the story of how your first love never really leaves your heart no matter how hard you try to kick it out. I thought this book was so beautifully written and such an story that will melt a lot of hearts and ring true for some people. I could so feel the emotions pouring off the pages. I also have to mention that Aubrey has a group of friends that really support her and are really really hilarious!! You are going to love this book. Don't miss it!
September 23, 2019
This is a slow burn, second chance romance that’s an emotional rollercoaster.
Aubrey has moved on since Pike shattered her heart a decade ago. Now in a relationship the last thing she’s expecting or wants is for Pike to reappear. It soon becomes clear that while Aubrey has moved on, she’s definitely not over Pike. The more time she spends around Pike, the more the cracks in her relationship become clearer and as Aubreys eyes are opened, her life and everything around her starts changing.
I really enjoyed this book. It was emotional, it frustrated me, I adored one of the men, the other not so much. If you like second chance romances, you’ll enjoy this one.
Aubrey has moved on since Pike shattered her heart a decade ago. Now in a relationship the last thing she’s expecting or wants is for Pike to reappear. It soon becomes clear that while Aubrey has moved on, she’s definitely not over Pike. The more time she spends around Pike, the more the cracks in her relationship become clearer and as Aubreys eyes are opened, her life and everything around her starts changing.
I really enjoyed this book. It was emotional, it frustrated me, I adored one of the men, the other not so much. If you like second chance romances, you’ll enjoy this one.
September 23, 2019
This was a new to me author, and the book certainly didn't disappoint. After being gone for ten years, Pike returns home and Aubrey is engaged to another man. With each encounter with Pike, Aubrey fights back the old feelings and memories, convinced her future is with Caleb. But Pike fights to remind Aubrey they are meant to be together.....forever.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
September 23, 2019
Who knew love could be so bittersweet in this romantic read by K.I. Lynn. Forever and All the Afters focuses on main character Aubrey, a sweet girl who seems to have lost her way somehow and forgotten who she is. Both Aubrey and Caleb work together, Aubrey as an Interior Designer and Caleb as the person who renovates and flips houses, they are also engaged and everything seems perfect…or so it seems. Aubrey is focused on the wedding and on her life in general, but she keeps thinking about the high school sweet heart that got away….Pike. He left many years ago and Aubrey hasn’t been the same since, until she bumps into him again and all of her old feelings rise to the surface, both good and bad.
Pike left Aubrey because he also had a plan, he and Aubrey were young and both had ambitions which sadly took them to different states, but that doesn’t mean he hasn’t stopped wanting her, or thinking about her. Even though she is with another man, it isn’t going to stop Pike from making sure Aubrey knows how he feels.
This is an emotionally charged book, not only do you have a love triangle of sorts. You also have a somewhat main character Caleb, who is a totally horrible character in my opinion added into the mix. There were times reading the book where you cringed because of what he said or did, as well as times you wanted to just shake Aubrey. Graphic scenes were handled really well, but may be a trigger for some readers. And the heart to heart Aubrey’s mum and best friend, Nora have with her was spot on and you feel yourself rooting for Aubrey to get her courage and strength and make that decision to leave Caleb.
Pike and Aubrey together are a really sweet couple and although there are some difficulties when they meet again and try to forge a relationship, you actually feel Pike fighting to give them a chance and understanding what Aubrey has to work through before she moves into another relationship as well as tell Pike some things that she has kept to herself.
If you love first love romances, you are going to love this book and may even get a tear in your eye at points as well as wanting to get out the boxing gloves too!
ARC received for a fair and honest review.
More of my reviews can be found on my blog: https://thehotmesslibrary.blogspot.com
Pike left Aubrey because he also had a plan, he and Aubrey were young and both had ambitions which sadly took them to different states, but that doesn’t mean he hasn’t stopped wanting her, or thinking about her. Even though she is with another man, it isn’t going to stop Pike from making sure Aubrey knows how he feels.
This is an emotionally charged book, not only do you have a love triangle of sorts. You also have a somewhat main character Caleb, who is a totally horrible character in my opinion added into the mix. There were times reading the book where you cringed because of what he said or did, as well as times you wanted to just shake Aubrey. Graphic scenes were handled really well, but may be a trigger for some readers. And the heart to heart Aubrey’s mum and best friend, Nora have with her was spot on and you feel yourself rooting for Aubrey to get her courage and strength and make that decision to leave Caleb.
Pike and Aubrey together are a really sweet couple and although there are some difficulties when they meet again and try to forge a relationship, you actually feel Pike fighting to give them a chance and understanding what Aubrey has to work through before she moves into another relationship as well as tell Pike some things that she has kept to herself.
If you love first love romances, you are going to love this book and may even get a tear in your eye at points as well as wanting to get out the boxing gloves too!
ARC received for a fair and honest review.
More of my reviews can be found on my blog: https://thehotmesslibrary.blogspot.com
September 13, 2019
Wow! What an emotional ride from start to finish.
Absolutely first, I think Nora might have been my favorite character, and maybe she needs a book? Just a thought. 😜 The way she didn’t tell Aubrey whatever she wanted to hear, but advocated for what was actually best for her, is an absolute testament to true friendship.
The story of Caleb and Aubrey broke my heart, and not in a good way. Everyone knows someone who has lived some version of that life, and it’s devastating.
And now, for the good stuff. Who doesn’t love a man that wants you, period? (Side note:thick thighs save lives!) Forever, he said, and he meant it. I’m here for Pike & Aubrey, FOREVER. All the stars!
Absolutely first, I think Nora might have been my favorite character, and maybe she needs a book? Just a thought. 😜 The way she didn’t tell Aubrey whatever she wanted to hear, but advocated for what was actually best for her, is an absolute testament to true friendship.
The story of Caleb and Aubrey broke my heart, and not in a good way. Everyone knows someone who has lived some version of that life, and it’s devastating.
And now, for the good stuff. Who doesn’t love a man that wants you, period? (Side note:thick thighs save lives!) Forever, he said, and he meant it. I’m here for Pike & Aubrey, FOREVER. All the stars!
September 13, 2019
Pike left Aubrey as he got on a plane headed for college. Years later with fear, heartache and regrets of not coming back soon enough. Aubrey is angry at Pike for leaving her, never a phone call, never coming home to see her, nothing from pike. Pike stayed away building a career and was only trying to do what he thought was right for them, but is he to late? Aubrey is engaged to Caleb, she is in love with him. When Pike comes back home, he is all Aubrey can think about. This book is raw and full of emotions, it takes you on a roller coaster of heart wrenching moments. But at the end of the ride your heart is happy. Definitely a recommended read!
September 27, 2019
While I'm a huge fan of the author's work - The Executive is one of my favorite office romance books of all time -, and I was so excited to read something new from her, this one was a big miss for me.
I read some other reviews and I see why many refer to this book as an emotionally charged rollercoaster ride. It is and as far as the story and the writing go, it's as wonderful as you'd expect.
I had a very hard time connecting to the characters. They didn't do this story justice and they were way too weak to my liking, both of them. Aubrey let a man change her, manipulate, and abuse her, both physically and emotionally. A broken heart and the loss of her high school love are no excuse.
And Pike, he leaves the love of his life when he goes to college and then basically ghosts her, why? Because he was scared. Nah.
I read some other reviews and I see why many refer to this book as an emotionally charged rollercoaster ride. It is and as far as the story and the writing go, it's as wonderful as you'd expect.
I had a very hard time connecting to the characters. They didn't do this story justice and they were way too weak to my liking, both of them. Aubrey let a man change her, manipulate, and abuse her, both physically and emotionally. A broken heart and the loss of her high school love are no excuse.
And Pike, he leaves the love of his life when he goes to college and then basically ghosts her, why? Because he was scared. Nah.
September 24, 2019
Nope.
I just did not like Aubrey. It was clear from the very beginning that her fiance was easily manipulating her. Not feeling too great with a pounding headache? Let's go get coffee for the fiance. She also seemed like she was on the verge of tears in every single chapter. Poor Little Miss Aubrey. It's like a game of tug-of-war with herself. She goes I can't do this with you Pike and then runs off with tears in her eyes. She's doing it to herself too. Initiate a kiss? The next step is to run off. Honey, you're only making it worse for you every time you make the first move and talk, text, or kiss him first. Seriously. There was this one time when she found an old picture of them and texted him going Why does this make my heart hurt? or something like that. The amount of eye rolls Aubrey was the cause for could not be counted.
Also, communication is a two-way street. Is she living in La La Land or what? This is one girl who believes in fairy tales and the life of a white picket fence, 2.5 kids, and a dog. I'm not saying that that dream is bad. But sometimes, you have to do something so you at least know you tried.
Now, Pike isn't blameless either. For me, he was an meh character. He had fake girlfriends and real girlfriends over the years to forget her. But, he still loved her and forever will. Mmhm. You didn't live like that in college. At least he didn't get married or something.
I get it. The entire thing is supposed to create this sense of angst and passion. Great second chance romances will usually do that for you. But this book is one serious case of someone make them sit down together to talk it out. Just one FULL conversation. That is literally all what it takes to solve their entire problem in the beginning.
Sighs. There was a HEA. So at least there was that.
I just did not like Aubrey. It was clear from the very beginning that her fiance was easily manipulating her. Not feeling too great with a pounding headache? Let's go get coffee for the fiance. She also seemed like she was on the verge of tears in every single chapter. Poor Little Miss Aubrey. It's like a game of tug-of-war with herself. She goes I can't do this with you Pike and then runs off with tears in her eyes. She's doing it to herself too. Initiate a kiss? The next step is to run off. Honey, you're only making it worse for you every time you make the first move and talk, text, or kiss him first. Seriously. There was this one time when she found an old picture of them and texted him going Why does this make my heart hurt? or something like that. The amount of eye rolls Aubrey was the cause for could not be counted.
Also, communication is a two-way street. Is she living in La La Land or what? This is one girl who believes in fairy tales and the life of a white picket fence, 2.5 kids, and a dog. I'm not saying that that dream is bad. But sometimes, you have to do something so you at least know you tried.
Now, Pike isn't blameless either. For me, he was an meh character. He had fake girlfriends and real girlfriends over the years to forget her. But, he still loved her and forever will. Mmhm. You didn't live like that in college. At least he didn't get married or something.
I get it. The entire thing is supposed to create this sense of angst and passion. Great second chance romances will usually do that for you. But this book is one serious case of someone make them sit down together to talk it out. Just one FULL conversation. That is literally all what it takes to solve their entire problem in the beginning.
Sighs. There was a HEA. So at least there was that.
September 21, 2019
I loved this book!! Second chance at first love stories are my weakness, my absolute favorite kind of romance and KI Lynn nailed it!! My heart was breaking and warming at the same time throughout the story.. Breaking for her with the wrong guy and then warming when she is with the right one.
Pike blew back into town after leaving Aubrey heartbroken 10 years before. And he knocked her for a loop!! She was engaged, she was about to get married but it was the wrong man for her. The story that unfolded was sweet, touching, infuriating and heartbreaking all at the same time. It was fantastic and had me grabbing my Kindle in every free moment.
I loved the characters. But one in particular I seriously wanted to throat punch but that soon changed I wanted him 6 feet under. He was awful to my Aubrey who was already so lost!! But it worked out beautifully in the end. A PERFECT HEA.
I want to say this is my favorite by this author but I can't because I love all her books. Like your children you can't pick one!!
Pike blew back into town after leaving Aubrey heartbroken 10 years before. And he knocked her for a loop!! She was engaged, she was about to get married but it was the wrong man for her. The story that unfolded was sweet, touching, infuriating and heartbreaking all at the same time. It was fantastic and had me grabbing my Kindle in every free moment.
I loved the characters. But one in particular I seriously wanted to throat punch but that soon changed I wanted him 6 feet under. He was awful to my Aubrey who was already so lost!! But it worked out beautifully in the end. A PERFECT HEA.
I want to say this is my favorite by this author but I can't because I love all her books. Like your children you can't pick one!!
September 17, 2019
My heart can finally relax! This book, wow, it's hard to put accurate words to this book. I can say that you won't want to put it down until the very end. At first glance you'll think this book is a love triangle, which made me nervous. I don't do love triangles. But this book is not that. And in order to get that full understanding you really need to read it. Pike and Aubrey were made for each other. They have years of separation to deal with, along with fears and a manipulative and controlling fiance. There is no cheating, though there is a kiss or two before hand. My heart broke for Aubrey way to many times. It broke when she ran into Pike that first time, it broke everytime Caleb would say something rude, and it broke when Caleb finally showed his true self. I just wanted to shake her and wake her up! This book is written mostly in Aubrey's POV but we do get a chapter here and there from Pike's POV and I loved that little inside to what he was thinking and feeling. This book was emotional all the way to the end. I'm glad Aubrey and Pike finally get their HEA with each other and that Aubrey had a great support system to ease her healing. She definitely deserves her happiness! *I voluntarily read an advanced copy of this book for my honest and unbiased review*
September 23, 2019
Forever and All the Afters is a story by K. I. LLynn.This story is way more than I expected. I was riveted, confronted, and captivated by the characters of this twisted tale. The characters were simplistic complication. The story took many unexpected turns, and my attention belonged avidly to this author's words. A stunning and fantastic delving into the complex workings of a toxic relationship, the healing of a true love, and a happy ending. This story had it all. A well rounded, eloquently penned drama. 5 stars.
September 23, 2019
“I’m in love with you, Aubrey. I’ve never stopped being in love with you.”
This line was everything. You never forget your first love. We have all been there. Sometimes it takes time to heal old wounds. I feel in love with the author because of this book and I can't wait to devour the rest of her work! This was a heartwarming, feely story that I didn't know I needed until I read it. You will not only love Pike and Aubrey but you will also love the side characters!
This line was everything. You never forget your first love. We have all been there. Sometimes it takes time to heal old wounds. I feel in love with the author because of this book and I can't wait to devour the rest of her work! This was a heartwarming, feely story that I didn't know I needed until I read it. You will not only love Pike and Aubrey but you will also love the side characters!
December 7, 2019
I love second chance romances but this one didn’t work for me. It started out ok like a nice slow burn but soon fizzled out. Pikes reasons for not coming back to Aubrey and for as long as it took him we’re just not justified all all to me. I felt Aubreys treatment by her current love interest was way unbelievable for her character. She was beyond a doormat and he was abusive. It didn’t fit her character to stay and put up with it. The second half picked up at a faster pace which had me skimming A LOT.
September 12, 2019
I am still in awe of this story hours after finishing. K.I. Lynn never ceases to amaze me with her words. My heart hurt and then was put back together again. Friends to lovers at it's finest with angst oh all the angst. Loved every morsel of this book.
"That despite all the afters, I am forever yours."
"That despite all the afters, I am forever yours."
September 23, 2019
If you want a great second chance story ... here's your story.
Pike left Aubrey when he got on a plane for college. Only problem was he never came back... cue my anger!
Pike started to build his career. Once that was done he came back ... meanwhile ....
Aubrey is happily engaged to Caleb but once she sees Pike ... uh oh!!!!
This book has emotions being thrust at you from left and right.. it's raw. It's emotional. And so good.
Pike left Aubrey when he got on a plane for college. Only problem was he never came back... cue my anger!
Pike started to build his career. Once that was done he came back ... meanwhile ....
Aubrey is happily engaged to Caleb but once she sees Pike ... uh oh!!!!
This book has emotions being thrust at you from left and right.. it's raw. It's emotional. And so good.
September 23, 2019
E. V. E. R. Y. T. H. I. N. G. This book is sooooooo goooood!
Seriously. Aubrey & Pike FOREVER
It was raw, real, so heart wrenching!
High school sweetheart who always intended to return to each other and something went awry.
She moved on. Is engaged to a real "winner".
If you're looking for second chance love with a strong plot, phenomenal dialogue and an awesome ending, look no further!!!
Highly recommend!
Seriously. Aubrey & Pike FOREVER
It was raw, real, so heart wrenching!
High school sweetheart who always intended to return to each other and something went awry.
She moved on. Is engaged to a real "winner".
If you're looking for second chance love with a strong plot, phenomenal dialogue and an awesome ending, look no further!!!
Highly recommend!
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