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The Ocean
Where the Ocean Meets the Sky
A woman grieving the loss of a loved one. A man carrying the weight of the world on his shoulders. Does one fateful summer really have the power to change everything?
Rising photographer Annie Baxter is ready for a fresh start when she makes her way from New York to the sparkly sands of South Beach. A recent college graduate, she has no plans other than to distract herself with sun and surf, pictures and friends.
Then a man named Cal Prescott steps in front of her lens...
When he first spots Annie on the stairs of his best friends’ home, he’s enamored.
It doesn’t matter if they only have the summer. Or if twenty years separate them. They soon find that nothing — not temporary circumstances, panic attacks, or an age gap — can keep them from starting what their hearts desire.
Follow Annie and Cal on a journey of love, loss, and what it means to give up defining themselves.
Author Note: Previously published in 2018 as The South Beach Connection Trilogy: Landslide, Wanderlust, and Continuum — Where the Ocean Meets the Sky combines those three books into one, as the author originally intended. Although heavily edited, combined, and relaunched since their initial release, the overall story remains. Literary fiction meets contemporary romance — a love made in the stars. A connection not to be forgotten.
200,000-words — over 800 pages. Part of the two-book series: The Ocean Series. Either book may be read first. The reader must choose. This is the main title. Contains graphic content that may trigger some readers.
Rising photographer Annie Baxter is ready for a fresh start when she makes her way from New York to the sparkly sands of South Beach. A recent college graduate, she has no plans other than to distract herself with sun and surf, pictures and friends.
Then a man named Cal Prescott steps in front of her lens...
When he first spots Annie on the stairs of his best friends’ home, he’s enamored.
It doesn’t matter if they only have the summer. Or if twenty years separate them. They soon find that nothing — not temporary circumstances, panic attacks, or an age gap — can keep them from starting what their hearts desire.
Follow Annie and Cal on a journey of love, loss, and what it means to give up defining themselves.
Author Note: Previously published in 2018 as The South Beach Connection Trilogy: Landslide, Wanderlust, and Continuum — Where the Ocean Meets the Sky combines those three books into one, as the author originally intended. Although heavily edited, combined, and relaunched since their initial release, the overall story remains. Literary fiction meets contemporary romance — a love made in the stars. A connection not to be forgotten.
200,000-words — over 800 pages. Part of the two-book series: The Ocean Series. Either book may be read first. The reader must choose. This is the main title. Contains graphic content that may trigger some readers.
786 pages, Paperback
Published September 20, 2023
256 people are currently reading
3350 people want to read
About the author
A.R. Hadley
15 books191 followersA.R. Hadley writes imperfectly perfect sentences by the light of her iPhone.
She loves the ocean.
Chocolate.
Her children.
And Cary Grant.
She annoys those darling little children by quoting lines from Back to the Future, but despite her knowledge of eighties and nineties pop culture, she was actually meant to live alongside the Lost Generation after the Great War and write a mediocre novel while drinking absinthe with Hemingway. Instead, find her sipping unsweet tea near a beautiful garden as she weaves fictional tales of love and connection amid reality.
VISIT A.R. HADLEY'S AMAZON AUTHOR PAGE: https://www.amazon.com/-/e/B01J7WHH16
CONNECT ON FACEBOOK:
https://www.facebook.com/arhadleywriter/
INSTAGRAM:
https://www.instagram.com/arhadleywri...
TIKTOK:
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She loves the ocean.
Chocolate.
Her children.
And Cary Grant.
She annoys those darling little children by quoting lines from Back to the Future, but despite her knowledge of eighties and nineties pop culture, she was actually meant to live alongside the Lost Generation after the Great War and write a mediocre novel while drinking absinthe with Hemingway. Instead, find her sipping unsweet tea near a beautiful garden as she weaves fictional tales of love and connection amid reality.
VISIT A.R. HADLEY'S AMAZON AUTHOR PAGE: https://www.amazon.com/-/e/B01J7WHH16
CONNECT ON FACEBOOK:
https://www.facebook.com/arhadleywriter/
INSTAGRAM:
https://www.instagram.com/arhadleywri...
TIKTOK:
https://www.tiktok.com/@arhadleywrite...
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 66 reviews
November 12, 2023
Please note that there are trigger/graphic content warnings so check them out before you start reading.
I enjoyed the first book in this duo and went on to read this one straight after. Where the Ocean Meets the Sky is the second book of a two-book duo although it can be read as a standalone. I do suggest you read this book first before reading this book The Ocean in His Veins otherwise you will be missing out on getting to know Cal as the first book goes through his life from 16 to 45 years.
In the end of the first book Cal met a woman that he felt something for. He is quite a bit older than her, but age doesn’t matter if it is love. Unfortunately, they both have their own demons to work through before a HEA could ever happen.
Annie is not coping from her brother’s death. But she has decided that she has to try to move on, but it means she needs to confront her demons. Now that she has met him she wants to overcome her past and hope for a future but is one summer all they will have?
Cal finally finds someone who he wants to get to know better but he still has to fully overcome his demons.
This book is just as interesting as the first book, and I still had moments of frustrations with both the MC’s. But it was good to see them confront their demons, their doubts, their fears, their loss and becoming comfortable with who they were.
Once again there are a lot of emotions in this story that was heartbreaking and made my heartache.
I look forward to seeing what else AR brings to the table.
I enjoyed the first book in this duo and went on to read this one straight after. Where the Ocean Meets the Sky is the second book of a two-book duo although it can be read as a standalone. I do suggest you read this book first before reading this book The Ocean in His Veins otherwise you will be missing out on getting to know Cal as the first book goes through his life from 16 to 45 years.
In the end of the first book Cal met a woman that he felt something for. He is quite a bit older than her, but age doesn’t matter if it is love. Unfortunately, they both have their own demons to work through before a HEA could ever happen.
Annie is not coping from her brother’s death. But she has decided that she has to try to move on, but it means she needs to confront her demons. Now that she has met him she wants to overcome her past and hope for a future but is one summer all they will have?
Cal finally finds someone who he wants to get to know better but he still has to fully overcome his demons.
This book is just as interesting as the first book, and I still had moments of frustrations with both the MC’s. But it was good to see them confront their demons, their doubts, their fears, their loss and becoming comfortable with who they were.
Once again there are a lot of emotions in this story that was heartbreaking and made my heartache.
I look forward to seeing what else AR brings to the table.
November 24, 2023
This book has a little bit of everything. Where the Ocean Meets the Sky is one of the longest books I’ve read recently. It’s one of those books you save for a rainy day. An age gap romance between two extremely damaged souls. And the way the author presents their stories gives the book quite a bit of depth. The author has you rooting for the two main characters in different ways.
Drawn to Cal the moment she sees him Annie is still trying to pick up the pieces of her life since her rock(brother) passed away. Having felt lost the last year and struggling to push forward Cal’s very existence and focus on her, has her feeling alive again. However those around her keep pointing out the 20 year difference between them, and he keeps holding back on her.
Will she be able to let her grief go and finally move forward with Cal?
Cal has never been drawn to a woman, like he is Annie. But can he truly be with her? His past is lingering and it’s not something he’s all that willing to share. It’s emotionally and mentally taxing and he feels no one should have to shoulder that burden. Yet he pursues her anyway. He can’t stay away. Figuring one night will get her out of his system, boy was he wrong.
Will he ever let Annie in?
Will their secrets just destroy the fact they could heal one another?
Things get complicated before they get easier. Which is usually the case, but since I said this book is on the longer side it should be expected. The author takes the reader on a heavy, painful, and healing story. One that some could relate too. I was partial to Cal rooting for him to take what he wants & fix what is broken, yet that’s easier said than done.
So grab a blanket, find an oversized chair, and get ready to cuddle up because once you start the book you’re not going to want to put it down. The need to know is why I’ll be lacking sleep tomorrow…lol Learn from my mistakes and enjoy!
Drawn to Cal the moment she sees him Annie is still trying to pick up the pieces of her life since her rock(brother) passed away. Having felt lost the last year and struggling to push forward Cal’s very existence and focus on her, has her feeling alive again. However those around her keep pointing out the 20 year difference between them, and he keeps holding back on her.
Will she be able to let her grief go and finally move forward with Cal?
Cal has never been drawn to a woman, like he is Annie. But can he truly be with her? His past is lingering and it’s not something he’s all that willing to share. It’s emotionally and mentally taxing and he feels no one should have to shoulder that burden. Yet he pursues her anyway. He can’t stay away. Figuring one night will get her out of his system, boy was he wrong.
Will he ever let Annie in?
Will their secrets just destroy the fact they could heal one another?
Things get complicated before they get easier. Which is usually the case, but since I said this book is on the longer side it should be expected. The author takes the reader on a heavy, painful, and healing story. One that some could relate too. I was partial to Cal rooting for him to take what he wants & fix what is broken, yet that’s easier said than done.
So grab a blanket, find an oversized chair, and get ready to cuddle up because once you start the book you’re not going to want to put it down. The need to know is why I’ll be lacking sleep tomorrow…lol Learn from my mistakes and enjoy!
November 6, 2023
This one is long but so worth it. We meet Annie who is young, and visiting family while trying to get a fresh start after losing her brother. She meets Cal who is 20 years older than her. Annie and Cal both have a difficult past and are trying to keep that to themselves but they eventually start opening up and keep less and less hidden from each other. They are both very vulnerable trying to hide their insecurities.
At times I struggled to like Annie and Cal. There were points where they both seemed to be very immature and did not see to work well but other times they fit together like puzzle pieces. Cal had something going on and he had to leave Annie behind and put her on the back burner. I was struggling with why Cal did this. He was going through a difficult time and Annie could have been there to support him. Annie was also going through something during this time and Cal should have been there for her too.
The ending was what Cal and Annie deserved. We got to see their relationship go from rock bottom and work its way back up. They did not give up on each other even when Annie was struggling with herself.
November 20, 2023
This one is long but so worth it. We meet Annie who is young, and visiting family while trying to get a fresh start after losing her brother. She meets Cal who is 20 years older than her. Annie and Cal both have a difficult past and are trying to keep that to themselves but they eventually start opening up and keep less and less hidden from each other. They are both very vulnerable trying to hide their insecurities.
At times I struggled to like Annie and Cal. There were points where they both seemed to be very immature and did not see to work well but other times they fit together like puzzle pieces. Cal had something going on and he had to leave Annie behind and put her on the back burner. I was struggling with why Cal did this. He was going through a difficult time and Annie could have been there to support him. Annie was also going through something during this time and Cal should have been there for her too.
The ending was what Cal and Annie deserved. We got to see their relationship go from rock bottom and work its way back up. They did not give up on each other even when Annie was struggling with herself.
At times I struggled to like Annie and Cal. There were points where they both seemed to be very immature and did not see to work well but other times they fit together like puzzle pieces. Cal had something going on and he had to leave Annie behind and put her on the back burner. I was struggling with why Cal did this. He was going through a difficult time and Annie could have been there to support him. Annie was also going through something during this time and Cal should have been there for her too.
The ending was what Cal and Annie deserved. We got to see their relationship go from rock bottom and work its way back up. They did not give up on each other even when Annie was struggling with herself.
November 12, 2023
Epic love story – forever is where the ocean meets the sky
This story begins when Cal meets Annie at a party in 2014. He is 45yo and Annie is 25yo. There is an undeniable connection but with an age difference of twenty years, can there be a future? In three books rolled into one, Ms. Hadley has successfully taken our main characters through many trying and some deliciously seductive times. Some scenes will have you reaching for a tissue while others will have you needing a fan…hot!
This was an intriguing companion story to the first one in this duet by Ms. Hadley but it is very long. It was three books which she has combined into one. Well-written, sad, happy, and moving story. The author has shown her poetic acumen by incorporating a bit between “scene shifts.” I like that she also equated Cal to the ocean and Annie to the lightness and brightness of the sky, hence the title. This book will haunt me with its beauty, life lessons and its fire. I volunteered to review an ARC of this book. In my opinion, these two books would make a beautiful movie. Read it. You’ll see.
This story begins when Cal meets Annie at a party in 2014. He is 45yo and Annie is 25yo. There is an undeniable connection but with an age difference of twenty years, can there be a future? In three books rolled into one, Ms. Hadley has successfully taken our main characters through many trying and some deliciously seductive times. Some scenes will have you reaching for a tissue while others will have you needing a fan…hot!
This was an intriguing companion story to the first one in this duet by Ms. Hadley but it is very long. It was three books which she has combined into one. Well-written, sad, happy, and moving story. The author has shown her poetic acumen by incorporating a bit between “scene shifts.” I like that she also equated Cal to the ocean and Annie to the lightness and brightness of the sky, hence the title. This book will haunt me with its beauty, life lessons and its fire. I volunteered to review an ARC of this book. In my opinion, these two books would make a beautiful movie. Read it. You’ll see.
November 20, 2023
A beautifully written spicy love story.
In Where the Ocean Meets the Sky (The Ocean Series) by A.R. Hadley, You follow Annie Baxter a year after her older brothers untimely death. She Moves to Florida for the summer to work on her portfolio for her photography. A chance encounter at a party Maggie And John threw (the couple that took care of Annie's when her mothers alcoholism was at its worst) , sends Annie into a summer of love and healing After meeting the long time family friend Cal Prescott.
Although Cal also has a past to heal from as well ,Cal is a man who knows what he wants, or rather appears to. When Cal meets Annie He knows there's something more there, but he can't be as vulnerable as she needs him to be. With many questions unanswered the love sparks between the two. Cal starts to become more open and a beautiful bond is formed between the two leaving Cal and Annie vulnerable to each other despite the 20 year age gap. They learn the unbreakable bond of true love and the hardships it comes with. I highly recommend this book.
In Where the Ocean Meets the Sky (The Ocean Series) by A.R. Hadley, You follow Annie Baxter a year after her older brothers untimely death. She Moves to Florida for the summer to work on her portfolio for her photography. A chance encounter at a party Maggie And John threw (the couple that took care of Annie's when her mothers alcoholism was at its worst) , sends Annie into a summer of love and healing After meeting the long time family friend Cal Prescott.
Although Cal also has a past to heal from as well ,Cal is a man who knows what he wants, or rather appears to. When Cal meets Annie He knows there's something more there, but he can't be as vulnerable as she needs him to be. With many questions unanswered the love sparks between the two. Cal starts to become more open and a beautiful bond is formed between the two leaving Cal and Annie vulnerable to each other despite the 20 year age gap. They learn the unbreakable bond of true love and the hardships it comes with. I highly recommend this book.
November 11, 2023
Reviewed in the United States on November 11, 2023
This is one of those moments where I wish I had the talent to truly write how I feel. It's hard to put into to words what this author's books mean to me. This book stirred every emotion within me. It was heartwrenching through most of it because Annie and Cal are two broken people. But they see so much more than that in each other. They have set a limit on their time together...the summer. But their bond is going to last so much longer than a summer. They will go through many trials and so much heart ache to be together. There is a companion book that's about Cal and the author stated there was no specific order but I'm glad I read this first. There really are no words to describe how moved I was by their journey . This book is amazing and can't imagine anyone not loving it as much as I did.
This is one of those moments where I wish I had the talent to truly write how I feel. It's hard to put into to words what this author's books mean to me. This book stirred every emotion within me. It was heartwrenching through most of it because Annie and Cal are two broken people. But they see so much more than that in each other. They have set a limit on their time together...the summer. But their bond is going to last so much longer than a summer. They will go through many trials and so much heart ache to be together. There is a companion book that's about Cal and the author stated there was no specific order but I'm glad I read this first. There really are no words to describe how moved I was by their journey . This book is amazing and can't imagine anyone not loving it as much as I did.
November 26, 2023
What made this read compelling to read is how this series is intertwined in a unique sense. As already indicated in the plot review, this book can be stand alone or read in whichever sequence the reader chooses. Perspectives and viewpoints differ as they collide into one. Absolutely must read and highly recommend reading both novels in this series.
This one is a quick read and focuses on the life of Annie, who is a photographer and a young independent strong female character. Since graduating college, many struggles have come forth to her. She is learning to come to grips with the demise of her brother and feels lost where a sense of stability is needed for herself. Then she has a chance meeting with an older man who has been dealing with his own struggles in a relatable way, Cal, who at the time of their meeting is 45 years old. There is an age gap in these intertwined novels but you can see that despite the gap, they can really connect one another and be the support and care they are seeking.
This one is a quick read and focuses on the life of Annie, who is a photographer and a young independent strong female character. Since graduating college, many struggles have come forth to her. She is learning to come to grips with the demise of her brother and feels lost where a sense of stability is needed for herself. Then she has a chance meeting with an older man who has been dealing with his own struggles in a relatable way, Cal, who at the time of their meeting is 45 years old. There is an age gap in these intertwined novels but you can see that despite the gap, they can really connect one another and be the support and care they are seeking.
November 25, 2023
Annie didn’t realize just how much her life was about to change when she decided to spend two months in Miami with Maggie and John. As an upcoming photographer, Annie needed to get away after graduating college, and showing her photos in a gallery was just what she needed. Just a few short days after arriving in Miami Annie meets Cal Prescott. After a turbulent two months, Annie and Cal are at odds but one night will pull these two back together whether they like it or not. After finally admitting that they were meant to be together Annie loses herself. Cal through everything never leaves Annie's side. This is a two-book series. You can read as stand alone but it gives you the full picture if you read the first book in the series first. Both books are amazing.
December 4, 2023
This is the first book within the ocean series and it was a beautifully written literary piece featuring a 2-decade age gap romance, grief, and mental health representation. The FMC and MMCs are Annie and Cal. They each have their own demons to battle plus and a significant age difference, yet they can’t seem to fight the magnetic pull bringing them in union. The author takes readers on a painfully relatable journey towards healing. Several plot points and events will make you tear up, so be prepared with tissues! The story was so well written that it made me forget that age gap romances are one of my least favorite sub genres. The soulful connection between the characters and the healing property of the ocean, made this a distinguishing read. For those seeking a good cry, look no further! Liked this read!
November 29, 2023
This was a truly gem of a book! You go through every emotion. You feel what the characters feel. And yes, it’s spicy, too. You won’t be able to put this story down. The reader is thrust into Cal and Annie’s world. And what a world it is. This author’s writing is flawless and so entertaining. Make sure you read The Ocean in His Veins. This book is Cal’s journey through adulthood. You will understand why Cal is the way he is. Bravo Ms.Hadley!
November 30, 2023
This was such a wonderful journey of love. It's a heartbreaking, emotional, hope filled story.
My heart went out to Annie as she had been through so much already in her life. Cal has his own issues and past which cause him to push Annie away. You can really feel the connection between Cal and Annie but the 20 year age difference is just another thing holding them back. The traumas these two have experienced is so raw and real and they deserve their healing and happiness.
Where the Ocean Meets the Sky is an absolutely beautiful story filled with heart. It grabbed me more than I expected.
My heart went out to Annie as she had been through so much already in her life. Cal has his own issues and past which cause him to push Annie away. You can really feel the connection between Cal and Annie but the 20 year age difference is just another thing holding them back. The traumas these two have experienced is so raw and real and they deserve their healing and happiness.
Where the Ocean Meets the Sky is an absolutely beautiful story filled with heart. It grabbed me more than I expected.
September 23, 2025
WOW. I seriously could not put this book down. Two people grieving, two people finding ways to heal, and plenty of 🌶 throughout. It made me feel so many things in this book... heartbreak, laughter, mystery, love. It never slowed down, just kept me wanting more and more.
September 23, 2025
unbelievably good
There are no adequate words to describe these books. So much depth, insight…reality. So beautiful. Thank you for writing this.
There are no adequate words to describe these books. So much depth, insight…reality. So beautiful. Thank you for writing this.
November 26, 2023
Wow ..
Cal and Annie are both damaged people who have an undeniable attraction to each other. There is a 20 yr age gap.
This is a beautiful story.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Cal and Annie are both damaged people who have an undeniable attraction to each other. There is a 20 yr age gap.
This is a beautiful story.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
September 21, 2025
Beautiful
Beautifully written, deeply emotional. Intricately drawn characters. Unsparing and raw at times. Intensely sexual. An exploration of human emotion and relationships.
Beautifully written, deeply emotional. Intricately drawn characters. Unsparing and raw at times. Intensely sexual. An exploration of human emotion and relationships.
October 3, 2023
First of all, I really loved the concept of this story. It was beautiful.
Annie stays w/close friends, more like family really, for the summer in Florida. She's focused on her photography and just getting a fresh start after suffering a tragic loss of her brother. Struggling with anxiety and panic attacks as well as depression.
What she wasn't expecting was Cal.
The moment their eyes met, they couldn't keep their eyes off each other.
Even though he's over 20 yrs older, they seem to hit it off.
They're relationship takes off pretty quickly.
The thing is, they agree its only for the summer. They both have plans on leaving after the summer is over.
But love doesn't work that way, does it....they soon find out the hard way.
Both dealing with their own struggles and problems in life, but they find escape together.
.
.
For the most part, I enjoyed this story, however I did have some issues...
The 3rd person pov. I always struggle to fully connect with characters this way. Then the pov would change mid chapter, and I sometimes had to reread it to understand who's pov we were in. It flowed nicely, but still. It was difficult at times keeping up.
I also felt like we didn't get truly the full story of Annie and Cal. I felt like it was mostly focused on physical attraction.
The ending was beautiful, messy, but beautiful. Showing that relationships aren't all rainbows and butterflies.
But if you truly love the person you're with, you'll find ways to work through each bump in the road.
.
Thank you A.R. Hadley for the arc for exchange of an honest review. I can't wait to read the next book.
Annie stays w/close friends, more like family really, for the summer in Florida. She's focused on her photography and just getting a fresh start after suffering a tragic loss of her brother. Struggling with anxiety and panic attacks as well as depression.
What she wasn't expecting was Cal.
The moment their eyes met, they couldn't keep their eyes off each other.
Even though he's over 20 yrs older, they seem to hit it off.
They're relationship takes off pretty quickly.
The thing is, they agree its only for the summer. They both have plans on leaving after the summer is over.
But love doesn't work that way, does it....they soon find out the hard way.
Both dealing with their own struggles and problems in life, but they find escape together.
.
.
For the most part, I enjoyed this story, however I did have some issues...
The 3rd person pov. I always struggle to fully connect with characters this way. Then the pov would change mid chapter, and I sometimes had to reread it to understand who's pov we were in. It flowed nicely, but still. It was difficult at times keeping up.
I also felt like we didn't get truly the full story of Annie and Cal. I felt like it was mostly focused on physical attraction.
The ending was beautiful, messy, but beautiful. Showing that relationships aren't all rainbows and butterflies.
But if you truly love the person you're with, you'll find ways to work through each bump in the road.
.
Thank you A.R. Hadley for the arc for exchange of an honest review. I can't wait to read the next book.
November 4, 2023
Annie is the young heroine who meets Cal, the mysterious older man, 20 years her senior. A delicious recipe. They both keep parts of themselves hidden from each other then slowly start to open up as their story progresses. Both of them trying to hide their insecurities but to me this only makes them more vulnerable to hurts that seem inevitable.
In the middle of this story are Annie’s surrogate parents, Maggie and John, who are also close friends with Cal. There is more than meets the eye with those two as they are the ones who introduce Annie to Cal, albeit reluctantly.
To me, Annie comes across as so immature I don’t see how Cal can stand her. I know she’s been through tragedy but she uses it as an excuse for her erratic behavior towards him. I’m not sure given her youthfulness and inexperience that they can make this relationship work. In this book Cal has something going on in his life that places Annie on the back burner. After finding out why, it doesn’t make sense to me why he feels he must do this. In my opinion, he would only act this way because he doesn’t trust her. In fact a lot of their actions towards each other just don’t make any sense. It seems like whatever is going on between them is just a big game that they can’t seem to stop playing. Physically the heat between them is off the charts but their emotional and intellectual interactions are mercurial.
On a positive note, the story has a dreamlike quality to it. Disjointed but fascinating, sucking me in. Poetry and prose, past and present, woven together. I got lost in it, floating through the pages.
The hero, the anchor in this book to me was Cal. I really came to love and respect him. His inner strength was commanding.
I love this Author’s writing style. The flow had a certain otherworldly feel to it. I can’t put my finger on it except that it sometimes felt surreal, especially in the first half of the book. The second half felt more edgy and real. Each of the characters are strong, even the minor ones which gives the story a lot of depth. And I can’t say enough about Cal. He just popped in this book. Even when he wasn’t in a scene his presence was felt. It was mainly because of him and his deep love and devotion to Annie that I’m rating this book 5 stars.
In the middle of this story are Annie’s surrogate parents, Maggie and John, who are also close friends with Cal. There is more than meets the eye with those two as they are the ones who introduce Annie to Cal, albeit reluctantly.
To me, Annie comes across as so immature I don’t see how Cal can stand her. I know she’s been through tragedy but she uses it as an excuse for her erratic behavior towards him. I’m not sure given her youthfulness and inexperience that they can make this relationship work. In this book Cal has something going on in his life that places Annie on the back burner. After finding out why, it doesn’t make sense to me why he feels he must do this. In my opinion, he would only act this way because he doesn’t trust her. In fact a lot of their actions towards each other just don’t make any sense. It seems like whatever is going on between them is just a big game that they can’t seem to stop playing. Physically the heat between them is off the charts but their emotional and intellectual interactions are mercurial.
On a positive note, the story has a dreamlike quality to it. Disjointed but fascinating, sucking me in. Poetry and prose, past and present, woven together. I got lost in it, floating through the pages.
The hero, the anchor in this book to me was Cal. I really came to love and respect him. His inner strength was commanding.
I love this Author’s writing style. The flow had a certain otherworldly feel to it. I can’t put my finger on it except that it sometimes felt surreal, especially in the first half of the book. The second half felt more edgy and real. Each of the characters are strong, even the minor ones which gives the story a lot of depth. And I can’t say enough about Cal. He just popped in this book. Even when he wasn’t in a scene his presence was felt. It was mainly because of him and his deep love and devotion to Annie that I’m rating this book 5 stars.
November 9, 2023
In this book we get to meet Annie Rebekah Baxter, a young vibrant woman with her own goals. An amazing photographer and though she doesn’t think so a strong independent woman. Amazing how the strong ones always think they aren’t. Annie has suffered a great loss at a young age, the loss of a sibling is like nothing else. It’s not the same as a loss of a parent, grandparent or aunt/uncle. No, this loss hits differently. I know, death is death and they all hurt. But my personal experience tells me differently. When you lose your sibling it’s like a part of you dies. It’s losing your breath and not being able to catch it; a long hard run that you just can’t catch your breath from. Sometimes it hurts to remember them, because that feeling you get that nauseous feeling hits every time.
While in Florida with Maggie and John for the summer she meets Cal. The immediate attraction, the pull towards him is something only true love's find. The intense burn of a look, a touch, even speaking with each other makes you hot in ways you don’t understand. These two burned extremely hot, neither one admitting their love for each other. Eventually truths are revealed and the relationship blooms. In her story Annie goes through a lot of struggles that hit home for me. Death, depression, anxiety and always giving of oneself. She has Cal right there with her supporting her and loving her in a way only he can and it’s perfect for them both. Cal’s mom has dementia, the loss of a parent with dementia is two fold. First we lose them when their minds are no longer theirs, they become a stranger. There are times when your parent looks at you and you see a little glimmer of them in there locked behind this god awful disease. Those are the moments that keep the families going. Physically looking at someone and they don’t know you, the child they brought into this world; it’s devastatingly tragic. Then when their physical form dies, this is both sad and honestly a bit of a relief that they now hopefully have gained every single memory that was lost to them back. Hoping that like a tidal wave of memories hits and they finally remember. I hope so.
I truly loved this story, I read both books.
Go get lost in this book!
While in Florida with Maggie and John for the summer she meets Cal. The immediate attraction, the pull towards him is something only true love's find. The intense burn of a look, a touch, even speaking with each other makes you hot in ways you don’t understand. These two burned extremely hot, neither one admitting their love for each other. Eventually truths are revealed and the relationship blooms. In her story Annie goes through a lot of struggles that hit home for me. Death, depression, anxiety and always giving of oneself. She has Cal right there with her supporting her and loving her in a way only he can and it’s perfect for them both. Cal’s mom has dementia, the loss of a parent with dementia is two fold. First we lose them when their minds are no longer theirs, they become a stranger. There are times when your parent looks at you and you see a little glimmer of them in there locked behind this god awful disease. Those are the moments that keep the families going. Physically looking at someone and they don’t know you, the child they brought into this world; it’s devastatingly tragic. Then when their physical form dies, this is both sad and honestly a bit of a relief that they now hopefully have gained every single memory that was lost to them back. Hoping that like a tidal wave of memories hits and they finally remember. I hope so.
I truly loved this story, I read both books.
Go get lost in this book!
November 11, 2023
Can one summer change everything? I lost sleep over this book. A stunning literary fiction portraying the raw power of the ocean and connecting with another soul. The lyrical narration combines with experiences common to all readers, yet it reads like an original story. The characters will sear your soul. The writing is intoxicating and unforgettable.
Let’s start with the characters. Like many lit fic stories, the entirety of the plot revolves around the main characters: Annie and Cal. Both Annie and Cal have dealt with pain and loss, each in their own way. I connected with Annie right away. Her internal suffering oozes from the pages. I couldn’t help but feel everything Annie feels. As I read her journey, she became a part of me.
The narration is both emotional and descriptive. AR Hadley uses narration to connect with the reader and it’s almost life altering. The details are immersive yet not overwhelming. The focal point is emotional, and this is what makes Where the Ocean Meets the Sky such a soul-searing reading experience. AR Hadley aims to use emotion to key on the human experience and that pain is part of life. We can’t grow if we don’t have heartache.
It's refreshing to read literary fiction that doesn’t try to be something else for the populace. This is lit fic in every sense of the word and it’s brilliant. I lost sleep while reading and it was worth it. One of the best lit fic I’ve read in a long, long time.
My Rating: 5+ stars
Reviewed by: Nancy
This review first appeared: https://www.nnlightsbookheaven.com/po...
Let’s start with the characters. Like many lit fic stories, the entirety of the plot revolves around the main characters: Annie and Cal. Both Annie and Cal have dealt with pain and loss, each in their own way. I connected with Annie right away. Her internal suffering oozes from the pages. I couldn’t help but feel everything Annie feels. As I read her journey, she became a part of me.
The narration is both emotional and descriptive. AR Hadley uses narration to connect with the reader and it’s almost life altering. The details are immersive yet not overwhelming. The focal point is emotional, and this is what makes Where the Ocean Meets the Sky such a soul-searing reading experience. AR Hadley aims to use emotion to key on the human experience and that pain is part of life. We can’t grow if we don’t have heartache.
It's refreshing to read literary fiction that doesn’t try to be something else for the populace. This is lit fic in every sense of the word and it’s brilliant. I lost sleep while reading and it was worth it. One of the best lit fic I’ve read in a long, long time.
My Rating: 5+ stars
Reviewed by: Nancy
This review first appeared: https://www.nnlightsbookheaven.com/po...
October 26, 2023
4 Stars for this age gap romance
I read "The Ocean in His Veins" first, which is Cal's story before he meets Annie and it is told from Cal's POV. I found this book hard to follow as to who's POV it was, as it went back and forth from Cal to Annie within a chapter. At some points I found myself skimming the pages as the story seemed to drag. Don't get me wrong though ... I did enjoy it. I loved how Annie didn't let Cal get away with anything. The steam between them is off the charts. When you start this book, get ready to settle in because it is long.
Annie is having a hard time getting over her brother's death, so she decides to go and stay with her friends in Florida. With different surroundings maybe she'll be able to start taking photographs again. Cal is still getting over the breakup with a longtime girlfriend. She wanted kids and he didn't ... so she decided to move on to someone who would. Cal needs a change of scenery, so he rents a place in Florida near his friends. At a party his friends are hosting, Cal is intrigued by a young woman. When he finds out she is staying with his friends and she's twenty years younger than him ... she's off limits. But when they meet, everyone can see the electricity flying between them. Maybe they'll have a summer fling and then he'll go back to California and she'll go back to Seattle.
I received an early copy courtesy of the author.
I read "The Ocean in His Veins" first, which is Cal's story before he meets Annie and it is told from Cal's POV. I found this book hard to follow as to who's POV it was, as it went back and forth from Cal to Annie within a chapter. At some points I found myself skimming the pages as the story seemed to drag. Don't get me wrong though ... I did enjoy it. I loved how Annie didn't let Cal get away with anything. The steam between them is off the charts. When you start this book, get ready to settle in because it is long.
Annie is having a hard time getting over her brother's death, so she decides to go and stay with her friends in Florida. With different surroundings maybe she'll be able to start taking photographs again. Cal is still getting over the breakup with a longtime girlfriend. She wanted kids and he didn't ... so she decided to move on to someone who would. Cal needs a change of scenery, so he rents a place in Florida near his friends. At a party his friends are hosting, Cal is intrigued by a young woman. When he finds out she is staying with his friends and she's twenty years younger than him ... she's off limits. But when they meet, everyone can see the electricity flying between them. Maybe they'll have a summer fling and then he'll go back to California and she'll go back to Seattle.
I received an early copy courtesy of the author.
November 24, 2023
This book is part of 2 books in The Ocean series. This book can be read as a standalone thankfully as I'm not sure which way round they are supposed to be read. So I just dived in.
This is a romance where the author has put 3 books into 1 so it is quite a lengthy read. However that being said it doesn't feel like a long read because you get so invested in the characters and their lives that it flys by. The author's writing is beautiful, very descriptive and really paints the picture of everything from the characters thoughts and feelings to the view around them.
Both of our main characters are dealing with demons and struggling with life in their own way which is partly what the story is about how they both struggle to overcome their pasts to create a future of love.
At times I wanted to laugh and at others I wanted to cry and on more than one occasion I wanted to shake both of our main characters . However I feel once I read the next book Cals behaviour will make more sense to me.
Overall I loved the story and can't wait to read the next one.
This is a beautiful story of 2 people who find each other, while having demons to battle which make them question themselves and things around them. As well as a age gap and the fact that they are only going to have the summer together both of them are powerless to stop what their heart desires. Can this new found love help them both heal? What happens when the summer is over?
This is a romance where the author has put 3 books into 1 so it is quite a lengthy read. However that being said it doesn't feel like a long read because you get so invested in the characters and their lives that it flys by. The author's writing is beautiful, very descriptive and really paints the picture of everything from the characters thoughts and feelings to the view around them.
Both of our main characters are dealing with demons and struggling with life in their own way which is partly what the story is about how they both struggle to overcome their pasts to create a future of love.
At times I wanted to laugh and at others I wanted to cry and on more than one occasion I wanted to shake both of our main characters . However I feel once I read the next book Cals behaviour will make more sense to me.
Overall I loved the story and can't wait to read the next one.
This is a beautiful story of 2 people who find each other, while having demons to battle which make them question themselves and things around them. As well as a age gap and the fact that they are only going to have the summer together both of them are powerless to stop what their heart desires. Can this new found love help them both heal? What happens when the summer is over?
November 26, 2023
Cal and Annie's romance in this story was truly written in the stars! I loved the fact that this book was rewritten to put all three stories into one book, I had not read the prior versions, but there is so much to these characters' stories that it just needed to be a long read, which I love. There are so many dynamics to Annie and Cal's backstories that you pick up as you get farther into the story. The side characters are all so amazing, in the fact that you have the fun-loving best friend of Annie, who is an amazing performer, and then you have Annie's drunk mother and her highly intelligent father, and of course, her foster parents who were more like her real parents, and the reason for her meeting Cal in the first place. Whereas Cal has her older cousin who is more like a big sister or a mother figure to him, his amazing household helper Rosa, who practically raised him, and his mother, a character that truly explains why Cal is the way he is. The settings are described beautifully, I've never been to Miami or South Beach, but from the descriptions I can picture them perfectly, hearing the waves of the ocean crashing on the beach. This love story is just phenomenal to read, don't let the number of pages scare you away from reading this book, they literally just fly by as you engross yourself in the pages and lives of these characters. This is going on my want to read again list it was so fabulous!!!
@Brandy Rymer
11/2023
@Brandy Rymer
11/2023
November 29, 2023
Where the Ocean Meets the Sky
By: A.R. Hadley
This book is absolutely fantastic. I know it is long and kind of intimidating looking, but once you get started, you definitely won’t realize you have read that many pages. The plot moves at a fantastic pace and keeps you wanting to read. I actually felt that the length of the book was absolutely perfect.
This is an age gap romance that definitely doesn’t read like your typical age gap. Rather, it is two truly damaged people who have found their way to each other. Throughout this book, I found myself drawn to the characters and wanting to see them succeed. Although at various times it was for very different reasons. Both needed their romance for different reasons and both really needed it to not succeed for very different reasons. Annie and Cal were fantastically well developed characters and the amount of depth and growth they possessed throughout the story was honestly some of my favorite parts.
I definitely recommend reading this book! It was so good and the author has an incredible talent for character development. This definitely is a book for when the weather is crummy and you just want to curl up and read!
By: A.R. Hadley
This book is absolutely fantastic. I know it is long and kind of intimidating looking, but once you get started, you definitely won’t realize you have read that many pages. The plot moves at a fantastic pace and keeps you wanting to read. I actually felt that the length of the book was absolutely perfect.
This is an age gap romance that definitely doesn’t read like your typical age gap. Rather, it is two truly damaged people who have found their way to each other. Throughout this book, I found myself drawn to the characters and wanting to see them succeed. Although at various times it was for very different reasons. Both needed their romance for different reasons and both really needed it to not succeed for very different reasons. Annie and Cal were fantastically well developed characters and the amount of depth and growth they possessed throughout the story was honestly some of my favorite parts.
I definitely recommend reading this book! It was so good and the author has an incredible talent for character development. This definitely is a book for when the weather is crummy and you just want to curl up and read!
November 12, 2023
3 Stars
Where the Ocean Meets the Sky (The Ocean Series) by A.R. Hadley. This isn’t the first book that I have read by Ms. Hadley, so I thought I knew what to expect- something emotional and angsty…. and she did deliver that.
This is a companion novel for/with ‘The Ocean In His Veins’ – which is where I started this journey. Cal and Annie are such well-developed individuals with their own baggage, quirks, flaws, and personalities. They have been lovingly crafted into ‘real’ individuals who pull us into their emotional story.
This story touched me, but also frustrated me, because I found it hard to connect with the characters and become fully invested in them or the outcome of their story the way I would have liked to. And I’m not sure why exactly. This has all the ingredients that would normally grab me- but it didn’t. So, I have decided to revisit it again in a few weeks to see if I still feel the same way, or maybe I’ll find that I was just having an ‘off’ reading day this time around.
Don’t let my opinion and lack of connection put you off grabbing a copy for yourself and making up your own mind though.
Happy Reading…
Thank you, A.R. Hadley!
Where the Ocean Meets the Sky (The Ocean Series) by A.R. Hadley. This isn’t the first book that I have read by Ms. Hadley, so I thought I knew what to expect- something emotional and angsty…. and she did deliver that.
This is a companion novel for/with ‘The Ocean In His Veins’ – which is where I started this journey. Cal and Annie are such well-developed individuals with their own baggage, quirks, flaws, and personalities. They have been lovingly crafted into ‘real’ individuals who pull us into their emotional story.
This story touched me, but also frustrated me, because I found it hard to connect with the characters and become fully invested in them or the outcome of their story the way I would have liked to. And I’m not sure why exactly. This has all the ingredients that would normally grab me- but it didn’t. So, I have decided to revisit it again in a few weeks to see if I still feel the same way, or maybe I’ll find that I was just having an ‘off’ reading day this time around.
Don’t let my opinion and lack of connection put you off grabbing a copy for yourself and making up your own mind though.
Happy Reading…
Thank you, A.R. Hadley!
April 2, 2025
This novel is more than just an age-gap romance—it’s a deep, thought-provoking story about love, grief, and the unpredictability of life. Cal and Annie’s relationship is complicated, not just because of their twenty-year age difference, but because they are both carrying emotional burdens that make their love feel impossible at times. Annie’s grief over her brother’s passing is heavy, and her struggle with anxiety is portrayed realistically. On the other hand, Cal is navigating the heartbreak of watching his mother slip away due to dementia. These themes add depth and authenticity to their love story.
One of the most impressive aspects of the book is its writing style. The poetic elements interwoven throughout the story enhance its emotional weight. The pacing is generally strong, though the shifting third-person perspective could be confusing at times. The chemistry between Cal and Annie is undeniable, but I wish their emotional connection had been explored in even greater depth. That said, the novel does an excellent job of showing that love isn’t always easy, but when two people are truly meant for each other, they will find a way through life’s challenges.
One of the most impressive aspects of the book is its writing style. The poetic elements interwoven throughout the story enhance its emotional weight. The pacing is generally strong, though the shifting third-person perspective could be confusing at times. The chemistry between Cal and Annie is undeniable, but I wish their emotional connection had been explored in even greater depth. That said, the novel does an excellent job of showing that love isn’t always easy, but when two people are truly meant for each other, they will find a way through life’s challenges.
April 1, 2025
Love doesn’t always follow logic, and this book proves just that. The connection between Cal and Annie is intense from the moment they meet, but with a twenty-year age gap, can their relationship truly last? The author paints a beautiful picture of two souls drawn together despite their differences, making the reader feel every emotion—joy, heartbreak, longing, and desire. The poetic interludes between scene shifts add a lyrical quality that enhances the story's depth, making it more than just a romance novel.
Beyond the romance, the novel explores deep emotional struggles. Annie is not just a young woman looking for love—she’s grieving, battling anxiety, and searching for her own identity. Meanwhile, Cal faces the heartbreak of watching his mother suffer from dementia. Their pain makes them real, their love makes them unforgettable. Though the shifting third-person POV was sometimes jarring, the story itself was mesmerizing. This novel isn't just about love—it's about healing, resilience, and the undeniable pull of fate.
Beyond the romance, the novel explores deep emotional struggles. Annie is not just a young woman looking for love—she’s grieving, battling anxiety, and searching for her own identity. Meanwhile, Cal faces the heartbreak of watching his mother suffer from dementia. Their pain makes them real, their love makes them unforgettable. Though the shifting third-person POV was sometimes jarring, the story itself was mesmerizing. This novel isn't just about love—it's about healing, resilience, and the undeniable pull of fate.
April 1, 2025
A.R. Hadley’s Where the Ocean Meets the Sky is a breathtaking novel that left a profound impact. This story, woven with themes of love, loss, and self-discovery, pulls readers into the lives of Annie and Cal—two souls who cross paths at just the right moment. Annie’s grief and Cal’s burdens make for an emotionally charged dynamic, one that Hadley develops beautifully over the course of the book.
The writing is poetic, the emotions raw, and the connection between the characters undeniable. The age gap between them is a central element but is handled with depth and care, making it feel natural rather than forced. Hadley’s ability to transport readers into the story is remarkable; every scene, every interaction feels vivid and immersive.
At over 800 pages, this novel is not a quick read, but it is an unforgettable one. The length allows for a deep exploration of the characters’ growth, but some might find it a bit drawn out in places. Still, for those who love literary fiction with contemporary romance, this book is a must-read. It lingers in your heart long after the final page.
The writing is poetic, the emotions raw, and the connection between the characters undeniable. The age gap between them is a central element but is handled with depth and care, making it feel natural rather than forced. Hadley’s ability to transport readers into the story is remarkable; every scene, every interaction feels vivid and immersive.
At over 800 pages, this novel is not a quick read, but it is an unforgettable one. The length allows for a deep exploration of the characters’ growth, but some might find it a bit drawn out in places. Still, for those who love literary fiction with contemporary romance, this book is a must-read. It lingers in your heart long after the final page.
April 1, 2025
If you're looking for a romance that is both steamy and heartfelt, this book delivers. Annie, a young photographer, spends the summer in Florida trying to rebuild herself after the loss of her brother. She isn’t looking for love, but then she meets Cal—a confident, mature man who turns her world upside down. Their chemistry is immediate and electric, and while they agree their romance is just for the summer, love has a way of changing plans.
The novel is filled with emotional highs and lows, making it much more than just a passionate love story. Annie’s battle with anxiety and depression feels real, and Cal’s responsibilities toward his mother add another layer of depth. The writing flows well, though the perspective shifts mid-chapter made it difficult to follow at times. While the relationship focuses a lot on physical attraction, there are also moments of true emotional connection. The ending was raw and messy but ultimately satisfying, proving that real love isn’t always easy—it’s something you fight for.
The novel is filled with emotional highs and lows, making it much more than just a passionate love story. Annie’s battle with anxiety and depression feels real, and Cal’s responsibilities toward his mother add another layer of depth. The writing flows well, though the perspective shifts mid-chapter made it difficult to follow at times. While the relationship focuses a lot on physical attraction, there are also moments of true emotional connection. The ending was raw and messy but ultimately satisfying, proving that real love isn’t always easy—it’s something you fight for.
April 2, 2025
This story had such a unique concept, and I was completely drawn in by Annie’s journey. She’s dealing with anxiety, grief, and a need for a fresh start when she spends the summer in Florida with close friends. Enter Cal—over 20 years older, but their connection is undeniable. What starts as a no-strings-attached summer romance quickly becomes something neither of them expected. The emotional depth of their struggles and how they find comfort in each other was really well done.
That being said, the POV shifts were a bit jarring. The story is written in third person, which already makes it harder to fully connect with the characters, but the sudden perspective changes mid-chapter made it even more confusing at times. Also, while their chemistry was strong, it felt like their physical attraction took center stage, and I wanted to see more of their deeper emotional bond.
The ending, though? Beautifully messy. It showed that love isn’t just about perfect moments—it’s about fighting for each other even when things get complicated. Definitely a story that sticks with you.
That being said, the POV shifts were a bit jarring. The story is written in third person, which already makes it harder to fully connect with the characters, but the sudden perspective changes mid-chapter made it even more confusing at times. Also, while their chemistry was strong, it felt like their physical attraction took center stage, and I wanted to see more of their deeper emotional bond.
The ending, though? Beautifully messy. It showed that love isn’t just about perfect moments—it’s about fighting for each other even when things get complicated. Definitely a story that sticks with you.
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