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The Instant Always #1
For Always
No one walks away from Grayson Stryker... except her.
A bit of yarn and a lot of bitterness. That's all the girl of his dreams left behind when she disappeared.
Why did she leave? Where did she go? Why the hell does he still care three years later?
Grayson Stryker is busy managing his family's drama and their billions while running the largest development company in Manhattan. He doesn't have time to wonder about the gorgeous, one-in-a-million girl who dumped him; or would have dumped him, if she had even bothered to say goodbye.
But when memories from their past bring Ella into Grayson's future, will he finally find out why the one got away? And can he win her back?
In this book you'll
Strangers to soulmatesDual POVParallel timelines Second chance romance Love after SA“Good girl”Opposites attractBillionaire romanceHe falls firstSecret pastPlot twist Autumn/holiday romanceSweet and spicyDarker themes (check trigger warnings)
A bit of yarn and a lot of bitterness. That's all the girl of his dreams left behind when she disappeared.
Why did she leave? Where did she go? Why the hell does he still care three years later?
Grayson Stryker is busy managing his family's drama and their billions while running the largest development company in Manhattan. He doesn't have time to wonder about the gorgeous, one-in-a-million girl who dumped him; or would have dumped him, if she had even bothered to say goodbye.
But when memories from their past bring Ella into Grayson's future, will he finally find out why the one got away? And can he win her back?
In this book you'll
Strangers to soulmatesDual POVParallel timelines Second chance romance Love after SA“Good girl”Opposites attractBillionaire romanceHe falls firstSecret pastPlot twist Autumn/holiday romanceSweet and spicyDarker themes (check trigger warnings)
516 pages, Kindle Edition
Published September 23, 2024
272 people are currently reading
1051 people want to read
About the author
Ari Wright
14 books829 followersAri Wright resides in a sun-soaked corner of the United States, where she spends her days raising littles, cooking, reading, consuming massive amounts of music, and doing entirely too much daydreaming.
Ari began writing novels at the age of twelve. A passionate book-lover all her life, her mother once joked that she had to start writing her own stories because she had read everyone else’s. After fifteen years of writing, Ari finally set out to author her debut contemporary romance novel... instead, she wrote two!
It has been her lifelong dream to share the worlds inhabiting her mind with others. Welcome to her dream come true!
Ari began writing novels at the age of twelve. A passionate book-lover all her life, her mother once joked that she had to start writing her own stories because she had read everyone else’s. After fifteen years of writing, Ari finally set out to author her debut contemporary romance novel... instead, she wrote two!
It has been her lifelong dream to share the worlds inhabiting her mind with others. Welcome to her dream come true!
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 243 reviews
June 23, 2023
This book was way longer than it needed to be. There is a lot of repetition with not much actual movement in the story itself. The flash back, and back to present format didn't work for this story in my opinion. I had a feeling that Ella's incident had something to do with her disappearing without a "trace" and sure enough, it did. For someone as powerful as Gray, I find it hard to believe that he couldn't find Ella when she didn't do anything to change her name or anything like that. The most annoying thing in this book, "For Gray, for always", I did not need to see that so many times. I get it, he's spiraling with the fact that she dedicated a book to him, but holy crap! It was in nearly every chapter in the present from Gray's POV. Started off strong but fizzled out quickly.
February 10, 2024
I absolutely loved this book, but it was unnecessarily long. I really did not need 500 pages to figure out the plot twist or the end game🥲. I found myself skimming the last couple of chapters due to this.
However, I really enjoyed the characters & the chemistry between them. This would've been an excellent read had it been about 200pages shorter.
However, I really enjoyed the characters & the chemistry between them. This would've been an excellent read had it been about 200pages shorter.
September 26, 2024
• 𝗛𝗲𝗮𝗹𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝗮𝗳𝘁𝗲𝗿 𝘁𝗿𝗮𝘂𝗺𝗮
• 𝗦𝘄𝗲𝗲𝘁𝗲𝘀𝘁 𝗙𝗠𝗖
• 𝗘𝗺𝗼𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻𝗮𝗹
• 𝗦𝗲𝗰𝗼𝗻𝗱 𝗰𝗵𝗮𝗻𝗰𝗲
• 𝗗𝘂𝗮𝗹 𝘁𝗶𝗺𝗲𝗹𝗶𝗻𝗲
• 𝗛𝗲 𝗳𝗮𝗹𝗹𝘀 𝗳𝗶𝗿𝘀𝘁
• 𝗕𝗶𝗹𝗹𝗶𝗼𝗻𝗮𝗶𝗿𝗲 𝗠𝗠𝗖
• 𝗔𝗻𝘅𝗶𝗲𝘁𝘆/𝗣𝗧𝗦𝗗
𝗪𝗼𝘄!!! I'm honestly speechless after this book! Ari Wright's writing has always blown me away! I'm a huge fan of her Omegaverse books. But this one! My gosh! This book was beautiful! Profound! And everything I didn't know I needed!
I told myself after Knot Her Fight that she has a fan for life. But this book! This book sealed the deal! I'm going to be sharing this book any way I can!
𝐄𝐥𝐥𝐚 and 𝐆𝐫𝐚𝐲𝐬𝐨𝐧'𝐬 story is a heavy one. It's emotional and raw. And so beautifully written!
Ella's character is just beautiful! She's gentle, she's kind, and she's so strong without being outwardly loud about it. She's easily one of my favorite FMCs I've ever read about. There's just something about her sweet personality and love for bright colors that just had me wanting to hug her the whole book! (And I'm not a hugger) 🤣😭 and when Gray started describing her. I fell even more in love with her character.
Gray became Ella's safe place. Which spoke volumes about his character. He was so good to her. Treated her with so much respect and learned her triggers without her even having to tell him. Swoon!
This book is told over two timelines. Giving us the present, but also the past they shared together and we get to watch as everything unfolds for these two. From start to finish. Normally I'm not the biggest fan of books told over timelines that bounce back and forth. But this book couldn't have been done any better! The way Ari told Ella and Grayson's story was PERFECTLY delivered!
If you love emotional books with a VERY strong FMC, who continuously overcomes so much, but remains such a beautiful gentle character! Then Ella's story is for you!
March 18, 2025
Oh my Godddddd! What a perfect, angsty, spicy, romance book! For Always has some of the charm of romance books of years past, and I had such a great time reading it.
Grayson and Elle were two of the most balanced, mature MCs I've read in a long time. Sure, miscommunication/a refusal to communicate with intention dominates most of their story arc, but in the day-to-day of their relationship they really did a great job meeting the other partner where they were instead of 50-50 and understanding each other's unspoken feelings. They were both so sweet and tender and understanding with each other that I bought their love story every step of the way, and it made me feel warm and fuzzy inside.
I did guess who the villain of this book was early on due to the fact that there aren't very many characters in this book (I'd say there are maybe 10-15 characters) and once the story gets going and certain people's roles/positions become evident but others remain ambiguous, it clicks into place. With that said, the execution of it was no less satisfying (for lack of a better word) and it turned out to be one of those devastating moments in fiction that I was glad I spent most of the book bracing myself for.
Ari Wright's writing style is beautiful. Engaging, conversational, and it very much felt like these were two characters who had lived several years in New York City. However, this was slightly too long and the "For Always" got old quickly. I also think repetition gets old fast for me in general in books, so this could just be a ~me~ thing.
I almost want to reread For Ever because Graham is such a funny character in this—and he's still my #1—but I'm going to try to hold out because Marco's book comes soon!
5 ⭐️s
3.5 🌶️
Grayson and Elle were two of the most balanced, mature MCs I've read in a long time. Sure, miscommunication/a refusal to communicate with intention dominates most of their story arc, but in the day-to-day of their relationship they really did a great job meeting the other partner where they were instead of 50-50 and understanding each other's unspoken feelings. They were both so sweet and tender and understanding with each other that I bought their love story every step of the way, and it made me feel warm and fuzzy inside.
I did guess who the villain of this book was early on due to the fact that there aren't very many characters in this book (I'd say there are maybe 10-15 characters) and once the story gets going and certain people's roles/positions become evident but others remain ambiguous, it clicks into place. With that said, the execution of it was no less satisfying (for lack of a better word) and it turned out to be one of those devastating moments in fiction that I was glad I spent most of the book bracing myself for.
Ari Wright's writing style is beautiful. Engaging, conversational, and it very much felt like these were two characters who had lived several years in New York City. However, this was slightly too long and the "For Always" got old quickly. I also think repetition gets old fast for me in general in books, so this could just be a ~me~ thing.
I almost want to reread For Ever because Graham is such a funny character in this—and he's still my #1—but I'm going to try to hold out because Marco's book comes soon!
5 ⭐️s
3.5 🌶️
July 12, 2025
How did Ari take my least favorite tropes and make them work??? I’m obsessed with this book, I cried multiple times but I needed this book. Helped me heal a little, damn Ari. 😭😭
These two are so special and deserved their HEA! (Not a spoiler since Ari always has HEA). 💙 they’re really each other’s soulmates that’s for sure! I really enjoyed learning their history and reliving it with them.
I’m so happy with the ending and how there was a healing journey. The mental health rep was so well done! They’re absolutely adorable and it their relationship had some big bumps but they healed. 💙
These two are so special and deserved their HEA! (Not a spoiler since Ari always has HEA). 💙 they’re really each other’s soulmates that’s for sure! I really enjoyed learning their history and reliving it with them.
I’m so happy with the ending and how there was a healing journey. The mental health rep was so well done! They’re absolutely adorable and it their relationship had some big bumps but they healed. 💙
September 24, 2024
Thank you to Ari Wright for allowing me to read a copy of this book. This book was a hard-hitting read, and I'm so glad that I read it. I loved Grayson and Ella's story and how they grew throughout this book. Although there were some times where I just had to sit and cry because it was so sad, the ending was worth it. Please go into this book with a good mindset, and please check the trigger warnings before reading. I will definitely be checking out the other books in this series when they are released and her other books as well.
September 25, 2024
“The feeling of finding something in a stranger that you thought only existed within yourself.”
Ari created such beautiful characters in Gray and Ella. They truly felt like soulmates. This book FELT like falling in love. Every moment and feeling was captured so precisely that it was like you were experiencing it yourself.
And damn do I love a softie who is able to dirty talk because it can’t always be pulled off but Gray absolutely does pull it off. From “Let me hold you?” to “Watch me make you mine again.” 🥵
I love Ari’s omegaverse books and I love second chance romances, so I had high expectations going in to this book, and it still managed to exceed expectations!
Ari created such beautiful characters in Gray and Ella. They truly felt like soulmates. This book FELT like falling in love. Every moment and feeling was captured so precisely that it was like you were experiencing it yourself.
And damn do I love a softie who is able to dirty talk because it can’t always be pulled off but Gray absolutely does pull it off. From “Let me hold you?” to “Watch me make you mine again.” 🥵
I love Ari’s omegaverse books and I love second chance romances, so I had high expectations going in to this book, and it still managed to exceed expectations!
November 7, 2024
One conversation could have made this book alooooooooot shorter and less annoying. I feel like sometimes authors always seem to include a "mystery" or some sort of issue the heroine has. They drop hints about it only to reveal the "mystery" at the very end. That part is really annoying and almost 90% always predictable.
September 29, 2024
This book is Devastatingly Good!
I couldn’t stop reading it.
*ᴮᵘᵗ ᵇᵉ ʷᵃʳⁿᵉᵈ ᵗʰᵃᵗ ˢᵒᵐᵉ ᵒᶠ ᵗʰᵉ ᵖᵃʳᵗˢ ᵒᶠ ᵗʰⁱˢ ᵇᵒᵒᵏ ᵐⁱᵍʰᵗ ᵇᵉ ᵗʳⁱᵍᵍᵉʳⁱⁿᵍ, ˢᵒ ᴵ ˢᵘᵍᵍᵉˢᵗ ᵗʰᵃᵗ ʸᵒᵘ ᶜʰᵉᶜᵏ ᵒᵘᵗ ᵗʰᵉ ᵗʳⁱᵍᵍᵉʳ ʷᵃʳⁿⁱⁿᵍˢ ᶠⁱʳˢᵗ.
This book tore me into pieces and glued me back together again. A very good cry I might say.
The story revolves around a simple girl named Ella and a handsome billionaire named Grayson. Two different people who live two very different lives, both facing their own struggles until a magical subway ride that changed everything.
This book went beyond what I imagined it would be, with a cozy cover I thought that it would be a cozy read not expecting for me to cry my eyes out and be exposed to a lot of spicy scenes (Don’t get me wrong because I’m not complaining).
A part of me knew the plot twist as I reached the turning point of the book, but reading what I knew wasn’t enough to prepare me for its emotional impact. And when I did reach it I finally understood what the dedication of the book meant.
This is by far one of the best Second Chances books that I have loved. The way it gives you hope that there’s still a chance for you to make your life better. That there’s still hope. And after reading this book, I found a new meaning for the word hope. That Hope, just like what the book said, is an act of great courage.
For those who are struggling no matter what it may be that you’re going through, please know that there is still hope and that you are not alone. I may not be fighting the same fight as you are but I am also fighting. Fighting to survive and together we would find ways to help us cope and survive.
So for all those who are looking for a good cry and ready to have their hearts broken just so that they can become a new person once again. This one is for you.
I couldn’t stop reading it.
*ᴮᵘᵗ ᵇᵉ ʷᵃʳⁿᵉᵈ ᵗʰᵃᵗ ˢᵒᵐᵉ ᵒᶠ ᵗʰᵉ ᵖᵃʳᵗˢ ᵒᶠ ᵗʰⁱˢ ᵇᵒᵒᵏ ᵐⁱᵍʰᵗ ᵇᵉ ᵗʳⁱᵍᵍᵉʳⁱⁿᵍ, ˢᵒ ᴵ ˢᵘᵍᵍᵉˢᵗ ᵗʰᵃᵗ ʸᵒᵘ ᶜʰᵉᶜᵏ ᵒᵘᵗ ᵗʰᵉ ᵗʳⁱᵍᵍᵉʳ ʷᵃʳⁿⁱⁿᵍˢ ᶠⁱʳˢᵗ.
This book tore me into pieces and glued me back together again. A very good cry I might say.
The story revolves around a simple girl named Ella and a handsome billionaire named Grayson. Two different people who live two very different lives, both facing their own struggles until a magical subway ride that changed everything.
This book went beyond what I imagined it would be, with a cozy cover I thought that it would be a cozy read not expecting for me to cry my eyes out and be exposed to a lot of spicy scenes (Don’t get me wrong because I’m not complaining).
A part of me knew the plot twist as I reached the turning point of the book, but reading what I knew wasn’t enough to prepare me for its emotional impact. And when I did reach it I finally understood what the dedication of the book meant.
This is by far one of the best Second Chances books that I have loved. The way it gives you hope that there’s still a chance for you to make your life better. That there’s still hope. And after reading this book, I found a new meaning for the word hope. That Hope, just like what the book said, is an act of great courage.
For those who are struggling no matter what it may be that you’re going through, please know that there is still hope and that you are not alone. I may not be fighting the same fight as you are but I am also fighting. Fighting to survive and together we would find ways to help us cope and survive.
So for all those who are looking for a good cry and ready to have their hearts broken just so that they can become a new person once again. This one is for you.
May 22, 2025
How did I find this book and why did it sit on my TBR as long as it did? My goodness it was so good. I was hooked from the beginning.
This book takes place in the past (about 3 years ago) and the present. It jumps between the two time frames throughout which will drive you crazy. In a good way. Just when things get interesting with either place in time, it jumps to the other one. You'll keep reading just to know what in the world is going on.
Not only is this a romance story, it's also a bit of a mystery. Ella was hurt months before she first met Grayson but doesn't talk about it. She struggles daily with the effects of this event. It cuts into her life and the way she interacts with others. Gray somehow wiggles his way into her life even though she keeps this huge secret.
The twists and turns in this book are gut wrenching. Up until the last like 10% of the book, I kept thinking "if they'd just TALK things out, it would all work out." Then more of the story is revealed and you understand why things went the way they did.
I highly recommend this book. I'll for sure be reading book two in the series.
This book takes place in the past (about 3 years ago) and the present. It jumps between the two time frames throughout which will drive you crazy. In a good way. Just when things get interesting with either place in time, it jumps to the other one. You'll keep reading just to know what in the world is going on.
Not only is this a romance story, it's also a bit of a mystery. Ella was hurt months before she first met Grayson but doesn't talk about it. She struggles daily with the effects of this event. It cuts into her life and the way she interacts with others. Gray somehow wiggles his way into her life even though she keeps this huge secret.
The twists and turns in this book are gut wrenching. Up until the last like 10% of the book, I kept thinking "if they'd just TALK things out, it would all work out." Then more of the story is revealed and you understand why things went the way they did.
I highly recommend this book. I'll for sure be reading book two in the series.
April 19, 2025
I was pretty surprised by this one. I loved it. It had some difficult moments and it can be extremely triggering. So please be careful and read those TWs
🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️
Spicy but also very lovely and emotionally impactful.
POV is dual
Past to present timeline jumps
I will say I didn’t see the plot playing out as it did…
which is rare.
The FMC was resilient and relatable. And I was so glad to see a survivor written realistically with the raw emotion and the true strength and determination that survivors in some books don’t get credit for.
The MMC was complicated I genuinely never “hated” him
As I kept telling myself “he doesn’t know”
That’s not to say the gala office part didn’t make me wanna smack him 🤣 but again… he’s so likable at times and genuinely heartbroken that I could understand his reactions.
🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️
Spicy but also very lovely and emotionally impactful.
POV is dual
Past to present timeline jumps
I will say I didn’t see the plot playing out as it did…
which is rare.
The FMC was resilient and relatable. And I was so glad to see a survivor written realistically with the raw emotion and the true strength and determination that survivors in some books don’t get credit for.
The MMC was complicated I genuinely never “hated” him
As I kept telling myself “he doesn’t know”
That’s not to say the gala office part didn’t make me wanna smack him 🤣 but again… he’s so likable at times and genuinely heartbroken that I could understand his reactions.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
September 25, 2024
This is the story of Grayson and Ella, two people with one of my very most favorite meet cutes, and one of the most complicated and tragically beautiful love stories that I’ve ever read. This book ripped me apart and then put me back together and in the most beautiful way. And (!) a therapist is in this book and she’s not an idiot, and that’s a real green flag for me.
I am an OG reader (as this is a re-release) and this is a Roman Empire book for me.
This book has tension, banter, swooning, spice, intrigue and suspense with a dual timeline, and redemption. The most relatable and wonderful characters-I miss them already. The way I adore the vulnerability and absolute authenticity of both Gray and Ella is unmatched. The autumn vibes, the sweet and spicy bits, the warmth I felt. Swoon.
👋Therapist Take: Mind the TWs as this is a story about finding yourself and finding love after SA. It takes a long time (and usually some therapy) for a person to get to a place where the term victim no longer applies and the word survivor does. You can sometimes feel the shift all at once and other times it happens piece by piece like a Rubix Cube you give up on from time to time. This book is a reminder to survivors that you can experience love again, feel and experience healthy sexual pleasure, and build trust in yourself and intimacy with partners even when it seems impossible-patience and communication are everything. You can start to live again post trauma, when you find meaning in your resilience and move forward with what you now carry- because of your trauma-not in spite of it. You can thrive instead of trying to hide it or bury it, and you can reclaim the body and its peace, even when it feels like it was taken from you.
I will never stop thinking about this book and the peace it gave me. What I wrote to Ari Wright was that this book reminded me that even the most broken parts of us can be repaired and somehow more beautiful in their complexity. I wrote this review as a therapist and reader, but most of all as a survivor too ✌🏻
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
September 19, 2024
5 ⭐
3.5 🌶️
Tropes: Strangers to soulmates, second chance, flashbacks/dual timeline, cinnamon roll MMC, billionaire, he falls first, trauma/healing, anxiety PTSD
This book is the love story of Ella and Grayson, who cross paths one day on a random subway train . It’s told in dual timelines switching back and forth from when they first met to the aftermath of when Ella unexpectedly breaks up with Gray, all the way to 3 years later when Ella publishes her first novel- her book dedication is a punch in the gut to Grayson who starts to spiral.
THIS BOOK IS SO GOOD. A lot of reviews say it’s long, but I was so wrapped up in the story that it didn’t feel long to me. it was easy to get lost in the story and destress from my day. I really enjoyed how it kept switching between timelines and I ADORE the way Ella’s book dedication keeps showing up in Gray’s internal monologue.
For Always is so sweet and SPICY. Plus Gray’s character is freaking amazing. I read a lot, but very rarely do I assign the MMC to book boyfriend status. Except Gray. I think he might be in the top spot.
Highly recommend this book!
3.5 🌶️
Tropes: Strangers to soulmates, second chance, flashbacks/dual timeline, cinnamon roll MMC, billionaire, he falls first, trauma/healing, anxiety PTSD
This book is the love story of Ella and Grayson, who cross paths one day on a random subway train . It’s told in dual timelines switching back and forth from when they first met to the aftermath of when Ella unexpectedly breaks up with Gray, all the way to 3 years later when Ella publishes her first novel- her book dedication is a punch in the gut to Grayson who starts to spiral.
THIS BOOK IS SO GOOD. A lot of reviews say it’s long, but I was so wrapped up in the story that it didn’t feel long to me. it was easy to get lost in the story and destress from my day. I really enjoyed how it kept switching between timelines and I ADORE the way Ella’s book dedication keeps showing up in Gray’s internal monologue.
For Always is so sweet and SPICY. Plus Gray’s character is freaking amazing. I read a lot, but very rarely do I assign the MMC to book boyfriend status. Except Gray. I think he might be in the top spot.
Highly recommend this book!
September 26, 2024
Another 5 star read by Ari
This book. Oh my god this book just broke my entire heart before putting it slowly back together.
I fell in love with Gray and Ella from the very start. Even when they were making decisions I wanted to yell at them for, I could understand the why behind it. None of it felt needless, especially once everything was revealed.
And speaking of revealing. The way I was so blindsided by some of the twists that came along and the entire range of emotions I felt while reading has this book sitting in a top spot for me.
This is the second book of Ari’s that I’ve read and just like the other book, this one gets a very solid five stars from me.
Please pay attention to the triggers, but if you’re ok reading them, I absolutely recommend this one.
This book. Oh my god this book just broke my entire heart before putting it slowly back together.
I fell in love with Gray and Ella from the very start. Even when they were making decisions I wanted to yell at them for, I could understand the why behind it. None of it felt needless, especially once everything was revealed.
And speaking of revealing. The way I was so blindsided by some of the twists that came along and the entire range of emotions I felt while reading has this book sitting in a top spot for me.
This is the second book of Ari’s that I’ve read and just like the other book, this one gets a very solid five stars from me.
Please pay attention to the triggers, but if you’re ok reading them, I absolutely recommend this one.
September 19, 2024
I am gonna be honest at first I was like little of the ehh side on the parallel timeline on then and now! Once I got into the book all I wanted to know was why!! I loved the timeline of how the main characters meet and what all happened in between! It’s so refreshing to see the instant connection with Grayson and Ella and how he lowkey became obsessed with her (in a good way)!
This was such a fun fall vibe with a HEA and little bit of a plot twist to keep you on your toes!
I read this book on Kindle and the graphic in the book was soo cute!! The little images matched the story line and gave it such a cute touch!
November 14, 2024
This was so so different from what I’ve come to expect from Ari but I LOVED IT.
The yearning!!!! The misunderstandings!!!!! The longing!!!!
UGH JUST RIP MY HEART OUT
I loved it. I loved these fools, I loved this story, and I want to hang out with these characters for always (get it????? shut up.)
If you think Ari isn’t the author for you because she writes a lot of OV, I have GREAT news for you. This is a perfect, autumn and pumpkin pie filled, second chance romance that feels crisp and cozy and now I would like to learn how to knit thank youuu.
Ari, thank you for this little gift. I loved it.
(I received an arc but you all need to read this I’m already on my second read k bye)
The yearning!!!! The misunderstandings!!!!! The longing!!!!
UGH JUST RIP MY HEART OUT
I loved it. I loved these fools, I loved this story, and I want to hang out with these characters for always (get it????? shut up.)
If you think Ari isn’t the author for you because she writes a lot of OV, I have GREAT news for you. This is a perfect, autumn and pumpkin pie filled, second chance romance that feels crisp and cozy and now I would like to learn how to knit thank youuu.
Ari, thank you for this little gift. I loved it.
(I received an arc but you all need to read this I’m already on my second read k bye)
September 23, 2024
5⭐️/4🌶️
When a book makes me laugh and cry and swoon and sweat it gets 5 stars!! This story was so so good. And the characters are so endearing. This is written in dual POV which I love. And it also goes back and forth between past and present storylines. Typically I don’t enjoy that, but for this book it really worked.
The chemistry and love between Ella and Grayson was wonderful. Ella was so sweet and so selfless. And Grayson was sweet and strong, then a jerk then tortured and finally back to sweet and loving.
I’m excited to read the next stories in the series.
When a book makes me laugh and cry and swoon and sweat it gets 5 stars!! This story was so so good. And the characters are so endearing. This is written in dual POV which I love. And it also goes back and forth between past and present storylines. Typically I don’t enjoy that, but for this book it really worked.
The chemistry and love between Ella and Grayson was wonderful. Ella was so sweet and so selfless. And Grayson was sweet and strong, then a jerk then tortured and finally back to sweet and loving.
I’m excited to read the next stories in the series.
did-not-finish
October 5, 2025DNF @ 7%
DNFing but not rating because maybe one day I'll be in the mood for this. It isn't bad writing either, I'm interested in where the story is going. My problem is that I don't like flashbacks every other chapter, especially when the "now" chapters are so short. To me, it feels like the story isn't progressing and will make an already long book feel longer.
Perhaps if I was in the mood for slow and the weather was windy and rainy or at least not 80F anda sunny outside lol I'd be in a better mindset. SO, there is a chance I'll try again in the future.
DNFing but not rating because maybe one day I'll be in the mood for this. It isn't bad writing either, I'm interested in where the story is going. My problem is that I don't like flashbacks every other chapter, especially when the "now" chapters are so short. To me, it feels like the story isn't progressing and will make an already long book feel longer.
Perhaps if I was in the mood for slow and the weather was windy and rainy or at least not 80F anda sunny outside lol I'd be in a better mindset. SO, there is a chance I'll try again in the future.
September 20, 2024
ARC Review
For Always was a beautiful second chance love story. Grayson and Ella had such excellent chemistry. There is such a sense of longing for what could have been that I get drawn to their story immediately. Plus I love a good he falls first. The story is a lot deeper than I realized going in - and that’s a good thing! It really deals with sensitive topics well but check the triggers as it does dive into love after SA. It was a bit long but I did still really enjoy the beautiful romance!
For Always was a beautiful second chance love story. Grayson and Ella had such excellent chemistry. There is such a sense of longing for what could have been that I get drawn to their story immediately. Plus I love a good he falls first. The story is a lot deeper than I realized going in - and that’s a good thing! It really deals with sensitive topics well but check the triggers as it does dive into love after SA. It was a bit long but I did still really enjoy the beautiful romance!
September 23, 2024
This was quite the emotional story, but I absolutely loved it. Both Ella and Grayson go through a lot in their pasts that shapes them into the people they become when they meet again. That being said they have wonderful chemistry and are so sweet together. I would highly recommend this if you enjoy second chance romances where the characters are able to go through trauma and come out of it healed and bonded together. Thank you to Ari Wright and Happily Booked PR for the ARC of this story.
September 29, 2024
I really enjoyed this book, I loved the plot. But it was so long for what it needed I would expect something for the plot to be under 400 pages. And I do love spice, but I found after half way I started to skip some of it. I just wanted to know the ending so I kept going. What a twist, I wasn’t expecting. It kinda gave me the feels of the after movies but in a different way. Definitely an autumn vibe book aswell so perfect timing of the year.
September 15, 2024
This books was so cute. I really enjoyed it but it was way way longer than it needed to be. Such a cute and cozy romance story. Perfect for fall.
January 19, 2025
I loved this book! It’s been on my TBR since it released, and when I got approved for the ARC of For Ever, I just knew I had to read this one first.
I loved the look in to both the present and the past. we really got to see their whole story together, and it made me appreciate them both so much more. It was an emotional ride, and their love for each other was amazing. Grayson treated her with so much respect, and worked around her triggers so well, without knowing why she was triggered.
The plot twist was great, and added another layer to the story. Emotional, sweet, raw and beautiful story 🩷
I loved the look in to both the present and the past. we really got to see their whole story together, and it made me appreciate them both so much more. It was an emotional ride, and their love for each other was amazing. Grayson treated her with so much respect, and worked around her triggers so well, without knowing why she was triggered.
The plot twist was great, and added another layer to the story. Emotional, sweet, raw and beautiful story 🩷
February 12, 2025
I really enjoyed this book, a bit different to your usual romance/smut books. A wish a bit more had been made of the time between ‘then’ and ‘now as it didn’t feel like much time had passed!
October 29, 2024
ARC REVIEW
For Always By @ari.wrights.romance
Rating: 5 🌟
Spice: 3 🌶
Wow! Wow! Wow!
This book gave me all the feels 😭
I've read Ari Wright's books before, but For Always currently holds my top stop by her.
At first I was confused, until I realised that I was reading 2 different timeless of past and present. This book was so well written, that I couldn't put it down. The way this love story unravelled had me gripping my kindle. Grayson, our brooding billionaire MMC was just delectable. He knew what he wanted and wouldn' stop till he got it, and the tenderness he showed Ella the FMC had me swooning.
The pumpkin date.....well I know what I want to be doing this Halloween 🎃 🤪
Ella, is as sweet as they come with a past trauma that holds her back until Gray breaks down her walls so gently, it's hard to resist the pull.
Ari I was NOT expecting that twist!! I almost threw my kindle in shock and shouting 'NOOO'. I knew now why the present was as it was and it left me heart broken.
Yet second chances happen for a reason and Ari did not disappoint when it came to 3rd act of this book. I don't want to spoil because I want you all to read it for yourselves.
10/10! Highly recommend!
Thank you for allowing to to read this ARC because it was beautiful.
'Before you. That's what my life was like. I knew there was more out there, but I couldn't see it. I couldn't feel it. The lights and the city and the noise just sort of...drowned everything out. But then you came along. And I could see. All the colours and wonder and light that I had been missing, I saw it all. You're my telescope Ellie.' 😍😍😍
For Always By @ari.wrights.romance
Rating: 5 🌟
Spice: 3 🌶
Wow! Wow! Wow!
This book gave me all the feels 😭
I've read Ari Wright's books before, but For Always currently holds my top stop by her.
At first I was confused, until I realised that I was reading 2 different timeless of past and present. This book was so well written, that I couldn't put it down. The way this love story unravelled had me gripping my kindle. Grayson, our brooding billionaire MMC was just delectable. He knew what he wanted and wouldn' stop till he got it, and the tenderness he showed Ella the FMC had me swooning.
The pumpkin date.....well I know what I want to be doing this Halloween 🎃 🤪
Ella, is as sweet as they come with a past trauma that holds her back until Gray breaks down her walls so gently, it's hard to resist the pull.
Ari I was NOT expecting that twist!! I almost threw my kindle in shock and shouting 'NOOO'. I knew now why the present was as it was and it left me heart broken.
Yet second chances happen for a reason and Ari did not disappoint when it came to 3rd act of this book. I don't want to spoil because I want you all to read it for yourselves.
10/10! Highly recommend!
Thank you for allowing to to read this ARC because it was beautiful.
'Before you. That's what my life was like. I knew there was more out there, but I couldn't see it. I couldn't feel it. The lights and the city and the noise just sort of...drowned everything out. But then you came along. And I could see. All the colours and wonder and light that I had been missing, I saw it all. You're my telescope Ellie.' 😍😍😍
December 19, 2024
For Always by Ari Wright is a second chance romance that follows Grayson Stryker and Ella Callaghan, who cross paths again three years after Ella walked out on Gray with no explanation and no goodbye.
Told through dual timelines we witness both past and present Gray and Ella, from how they met to their current timeline of longing for one another yet remaining apart.
I loved the now and then timeline and how it showed the development of Gray and Ella’s relationship. I couldn’t turn the pages fast enough as I was dying to know what happened to end their relationship when they were both clearly still in love with each other.
Grayson was immediately attracted to Ella, she was so different to the women he usually meets. I loved how he was so patient and understanding with her and didn’t try to push her boundaries, even though he didn’t fully understand what had happened to Ella in the past.
Ella is the complete opposite of Grayson in every way, despite what she’s been through she’s the light to Gray’s broodiness, she believes in his abilities even when he doubts himself.
One of the things I liked about For Always is the representation of issues such as SA, PTSD, anxiety and seeking therapy to help deal with those issues.
I loved the side characters in For Always, especially Gray’s bodyguard Marco; I can’t wait for his book! Gray’s parents, his friend Graham and Ella’s roommate Maggie all added depth to the storyline.
Overall this was a heartwarming and heartbreaking story of finding love and learning to trust again after experiencing SA. For Always is an emotional journey of resilience and how the power of love can heal.
* He falls first
* Second chance
* Grumpy x sunshine
* Love after SA
* Billionaire romance
Triggers Warnings: SA (off page), anxiety, PTSD, parent illness, blackmail.
Told through dual timelines we witness both past and present Gray and Ella, from how they met to their current timeline of longing for one another yet remaining apart.
I loved the now and then timeline and how it showed the development of Gray and Ella’s relationship. I couldn’t turn the pages fast enough as I was dying to know what happened to end their relationship when they were both clearly still in love with each other.
Grayson was immediately attracted to Ella, she was so different to the women he usually meets. I loved how he was so patient and understanding with her and didn’t try to push her boundaries, even though he didn’t fully understand what had happened to Ella in the past.
Ella is the complete opposite of Grayson in every way, despite what she’s been through she’s the light to Gray’s broodiness, she believes in his abilities even when he doubts himself.
One of the things I liked about For Always is the representation of issues such as SA, PTSD, anxiety and seeking therapy to help deal with those issues.
I loved the side characters in For Always, especially Gray’s bodyguard Marco; I can’t wait for his book! Gray’s parents, his friend Graham and Ella’s roommate Maggie all added depth to the storyline.
Overall this was a heartwarming and heartbreaking story of finding love and learning to trust again after experiencing SA. For Always is an emotional journey of resilience and how the power of love can heal.
* He falls first
* Second chance
* Grumpy x sunshine
* Love after SA
* Billionaire romance
Triggers Warnings: SA (off page), anxiety, PTSD, parent illness, blackmail.
September 23, 2024
I will say right off the bat this storyline hit close to home with me. It was a very difficult subject to read about. Ari Wright covers several difficult topics in this book, and you need to be prepared going in.
The storyline will surround:
Healing after Trauma
Sweet FMC
Emotions you didnt even realize you could feel
Second Chance
Dual Timeline
He Falls First
Anxiety / PTSD
Love After SA
Opposites Attract
This was a beautiful, profound, second chance love story of longing and the inevitable pull of unresolved loved. It completely left me in a book coma. Once I started reading this, I could not put it down no matter how difficult it was to read. I had to find out if Ella and Grayson got the happy ever after they so deserved.
This storyline was spun past to present and back with each character written so wonderfully that you feel each and every emotion they are feeling. But in no way does the writer give anything away regarding this two.
Ella survived something while she was in college. She is dealing with things the best that she can. She is strong, determined and a survival. She keeps to herself and does not put herself out there. Grayson is the rich boy from the other side of the tracks so to speak. He is meant to take over his father's position as CEO of the company they run but he doesnt know what to expect when dealing with all that and something will happen that will fast forward that taking place. He decides to take the subway back and forth to work and sees Ella one day over in her corner with her knitting. One look and that was all it took. He fell hard and fast. But Ella is not the type of person to fall so easily. She has anxiety/PTSD which keeps her hiding within herself.
Ari takes you on the ride of your life with their love story. The slow burn, the buildup, the chemistry, the way Grayson acts with Ella. All of it is so beautifully written and amazing to read. But then one weekend will change everything between them and leave them both with a broken heart. Grayson will have so many questions that never get answered. Until he reads the dedication of the book Ella wrote. It leaves him even more heartbroken, and you know from that moment on he has to get answers.
But will the truth make things even worse? Will he be able to forgive Ella? Will telling Grayson why she left, and everything involved with it set Ella free?
The love story between these two was completely emotional, raw and heavy. It will break your heart to read this not knowing if they will get back together or even why Ella left. The chemistry was completely undeniable, and Ari had a way of reigniting the spark that existed between them so very easily. You could easily feel what these two have between them. The love, honest, passion is there and written so amazingly.
I was completely invested in this relationship and the healing process each of them goes through. Not only because I can easily relate to the storyline but because it was so well written. Ari will have you turning the page until you are crying and wanting to throw the book to know what is going to happen between these two.
I absolutely loved this book. I will be reading more from Ari because after this one I just have too. The emotions alone written in this book will have me coming back for more if she brings that in ever book, she writes.
The storyline will surround:
Healing after Trauma
Sweet FMC
Emotions you didnt even realize you could feel
Second Chance
Dual Timeline
He Falls First
Anxiety / PTSD
Love After SA
Opposites Attract
This was a beautiful, profound, second chance love story of longing and the inevitable pull of unresolved loved. It completely left me in a book coma. Once I started reading this, I could not put it down no matter how difficult it was to read. I had to find out if Ella and Grayson got the happy ever after they so deserved.
This storyline was spun past to present and back with each character written so wonderfully that you feel each and every emotion they are feeling. But in no way does the writer give anything away regarding this two.
Ella survived something while she was in college. She is dealing with things the best that she can. She is strong, determined and a survival. She keeps to herself and does not put herself out there. Grayson is the rich boy from the other side of the tracks so to speak. He is meant to take over his father's position as CEO of the company they run but he doesnt know what to expect when dealing with all that and something will happen that will fast forward that taking place. He decides to take the subway back and forth to work and sees Ella one day over in her corner with her knitting. One look and that was all it took. He fell hard and fast. But Ella is not the type of person to fall so easily. She has anxiety/PTSD which keeps her hiding within herself.
Ari takes you on the ride of your life with their love story. The slow burn, the buildup, the chemistry, the way Grayson acts with Ella. All of it is so beautifully written and amazing to read. But then one weekend will change everything between them and leave them both with a broken heart. Grayson will have so many questions that never get answered. Until he reads the dedication of the book Ella wrote. It leaves him even more heartbroken, and you know from that moment on he has to get answers.
But will the truth make things even worse? Will he be able to forgive Ella? Will telling Grayson why she left, and everything involved with it set Ella free?
The love story between these two was completely emotional, raw and heavy. It will break your heart to read this not knowing if they will get back together or even why Ella left. The chemistry was completely undeniable, and Ari had a way of reigniting the spark that existed between them so very easily. You could easily feel what these two have between them. The love, honest, passion is there and written so amazingly.
I was completely invested in this relationship and the healing process each of them goes through. Not only because I can easily relate to the storyline but because it was so well written. Ari will have you turning the page until you are crying and wanting to throw the book to know what is going to happen between these two.
I absolutely loved this book. I will be reading more from Ari because after this one I just have too. The emotions alone written in this book will have me coming back for more if she brings that in ever book, she writes.
September 14, 2024
🍁Strangers to Soulmates
💕Autumn/Holiday romance
🍁Second Chance Romance
💕Love after SA
🍁Opposites Attract
💕Broody, billionaire MMC
🍁Soft, sweetheart FMC
💕Sweet and spicy
🍁He falls first
Star: ⭐⭐⭐⭐.5
Spice: 🌶️
For Always by Ari Wright is a second-chance romance filled with tension, longing, and the inevitable pull of unresolved love. The story follows Grayson Stryker, a successful and powerful man managing his family’s billion-dollar empire while grappling with the unexpected reappearance of the woman who walked out of his life three years earlier—without so much as a goodbye.
Grayson is the quintessential successful, handsome, and driven, yet he carries the emotional burden of Ella’s sudden departure. The memories of their passionate past and the mystery of why she left has haunted him, despite his best efforts to bury those feelings beneath his work and responsibilities. The author does an excellent job of balancing Grayson’s professional confidence with his personal vulnerability, making him a relatable character despite his seemingly perfect exterior.
Ella, on the other hand, remains an enigma throughout much of the book. Her decision to leave Grayson without an explanation adds an air of mystery that drives the plot forward. Readers are left wondering what could have been so devastating that she would walk away from a man like Grayson, who clearly never stopped caring about her. When she reappears in his life, the tension is palpable, and the emotional stakes are high as both characters are forced to confront their past.
The chemistry between Grayson and Ella is undeniable, and Ari Wright does a great job of reigniting the spark that once existed between them. Their interactions are charged with both passion and pain, making for a gripping read. The slow unraveling of their history and the reasons behind Ella’s departure keep readers invested in their journey toward closure—or perhaps, reconciliation.
One of the strongest elements of For Always is the exploration of regret and missed opportunities. Grayson’s lingering feelings for Ella are contrasted with the bitterness of her leaving, creating a compelling emotional landscape. The push-and-pull dynamic between them—Grayson’s desire to understand and Ella’s reluctance to fully reveal herself—adds depth to their relationship, making the eventual revelations all the more impactful.
Ari Wright also effectively incorporates Grayson’s family dynamics into the story, adding another layer to his character. The pressures of managing his family’s wealth and reputation weigh heavily on him, and this only heightens the complexity of his emotional life. Despite his success, it’s clear that Grayson’s world has felt incomplete without Ella, and her return challenges everything he’s tried to move past.
Overall, For Always is a captivating story of love, loss, and second chances. Ari Wright crafts a tale that’s both heart-wrenching and heartwarming, exploring the powerful emotions that come with reuniting with a lost love. For fans of romance that delves deep into emotional complexity and the intricacies of past and present relationships, this book is sure to leave a lasting impression.
💕Autumn/Holiday romance
🍁Second Chance Romance
💕Love after SA
🍁Opposites Attract
💕Broody, billionaire MMC
🍁Soft, sweetheart FMC
💕Sweet and spicy
🍁He falls first
Star: ⭐⭐⭐⭐.5
Spice: 🌶️
For Always by Ari Wright is a second-chance romance filled with tension, longing, and the inevitable pull of unresolved love. The story follows Grayson Stryker, a successful and powerful man managing his family’s billion-dollar empire while grappling with the unexpected reappearance of the woman who walked out of his life three years earlier—without so much as a goodbye.
Grayson is the quintessential successful, handsome, and driven, yet he carries the emotional burden of Ella’s sudden departure. The memories of their passionate past and the mystery of why she left has haunted him, despite his best efforts to bury those feelings beneath his work and responsibilities. The author does an excellent job of balancing Grayson’s professional confidence with his personal vulnerability, making him a relatable character despite his seemingly perfect exterior.
Ella, on the other hand, remains an enigma throughout much of the book. Her decision to leave Grayson without an explanation adds an air of mystery that drives the plot forward. Readers are left wondering what could have been so devastating that she would walk away from a man like Grayson, who clearly never stopped caring about her. When she reappears in his life, the tension is palpable, and the emotional stakes are high as both characters are forced to confront their past.
The chemistry between Grayson and Ella is undeniable, and Ari Wright does a great job of reigniting the spark that once existed between them. Their interactions are charged with both passion and pain, making for a gripping read. The slow unraveling of their history and the reasons behind Ella’s departure keep readers invested in their journey toward closure—or perhaps, reconciliation.
One of the strongest elements of For Always is the exploration of regret and missed opportunities. Grayson’s lingering feelings for Ella are contrasted with the bitterness of her leaving, creating a compelling emotional landscape. The push-and-pull dynamic between them—Grayson’s desire to understand and Ella’s reluctance to fully reveal herself—adds depth to their relationship, making the eventual revelations all the more impactful.
Ari Wright also effectively incorporates Grayson’s family dynamics into the story, adding another layer to his character. The pressures of managing his family’s wealth and reputation weigh heavily on him, and this only heightens the complexity of his emotional life. Despite his success, it’s clear that Grayson’s world has felt incomplete without Ella, and her return challenges everything he’s tried to move past.
Overall, For Always is a captivating story of love, loss, and second chances. Ari Wright crafts a tale that’s both heart-wrenching and heartwarming, exploring the powerful emotions that come with reuniting with a lost love. For fans of romance that delves deep into emotional complexity and the intricacies of past and present relationships, this book is sure to leave a lasting impression.
November 10, 2023
If You Read Only ONE Series Before the end OF 2023 ..Make IT Instant Always
As per usual , I am a rebel and didnt read this series in order. In book 2 we get a sunshine radiant Ella , but her character is so much more , so full of depth.
I pictured a young Cameron Diaz from my Best Friends Wedding , wide eyed effervescent smile , huge heart but she is more ..enchanting ..a blond Anne Hathaway..gifted, poetic in thought , a stargazing sensitive spirit in vintage clothes ready to gift you a handmade scarf or baked good. She steals your heart from the very first subway scene ..
God that scene . ..Ari Wright has you so transfixed you forget to eat and forget what day it is .
When Ella's and Grayson's eyes met ..it brought me deja vu of the first time seeing someones eyes across a crowded room and how it takes the breath from your lungs.
It is Sliding Doors meets Before Sunrise ..but altogether unique and new . He sees her just staring out the train window ..light like a halo on her face , not looking at her fingers knitting . On that moment..Grayson Stryker was gone ..and he fell hard.
Billionaire, heir to a huge corporation , artistic soul that doodled drawings of all the buildings he wished to create. None of that mattered after he saw her . He had to tread softly , he rode that subway till he saw her again ., and he didnt understand why she ran . Ari spun this story past to present and back with Dual POV that didnt give anything away , except like Prince Philip in Cinderella. Gray didnt know why Ella ran , except she left him longing for her , angry ..till Google pinged her name 3 years later ..with a book she wrote and a dedication ; For Gray..For Always.
Gray searched and found her with the help of his security bodyguard Marco . But as all Billionaire romances Grayson makes mistakes , and the truth finally comes out in a very explosive way. I am in a reading coma from this book the longing , the love from this couple for each other was palpable and heartbreakingly beautiful. Longing and yearning that covers each page with a symphony soundtrack till the very last page , this is a couple that will stay with you and live rent free in your heart for a very long time.
I also commend this author for the exceptional way she portrayed Ella as a strong survivor of SA. Grayson's patience with Ella and not wanting to trigger her in the beginning of their relationship, her courageously seeking therapy all of the things she did to heal how he held her and listened after a nightmare. I loved each piece the side characters played and how well developed all of them were the reader gets invested in them all even the bad evil ones.
If you loved Lauren Asher's Dreamland Billionaire series , or Claire Conteras Until I Get You , this is your book series .
This series will be found in my Fave Billionaire series of 2023.
As per usual , I am a rebel and didnt read this series in order. In book 2 we get a sunshine radiant Ella , but her character is so much more , so full of depth.
I pictured a young Cameron Diaz from my Best Friends Wedding , wide eyed effervescent smile , huge heart but she is more ..enchanting ..a blond Anne Hathaway..gifted, poetic in thought , a stargazing sensitive spirit in vintage clothes ready to gift you a handmade scarf or baked good. She steals your heart from the very first subway scene ..
God that scene . ..Ari Wright has you so transfixed you forget to eat and forget what day it is .
When Ella's and Grayson's eyes met ..it brought me deja vu of the first time seeing someones eyes across a crowded room and how it takes the breath from your lungs.
It is Sliding Doors meets Before Sunrise ..but altogether unique and new . He sees her just staring out the train window ..light like a halo on her face , not looking at her fingers knitting . On that moment..Grayson Stryker was gone ..and he fell hard.
Billionaire, heir to a huge corporation , artistic soul that doodled drawings of all the buildings he wished to create. None of that mattered after he saw her . He had to tread softly , he rode that subway till he saw her again ., and he didnt understand why she ran . Ari spun this story past to present and back with Dual POV that didnt give anything away , except like Prince Philip in Cinderella. Gray didnt know why Ella ran , except she left him longing for her , angry ..till Google pinged her name 3 years later ..with a book she wrote and a dedication ; For Gray..For Always.
Gray searched and found her with the help of his security bodyguard Marco . But as all Billionaire romances Grayson makes mistakes , and the truth finally comes out in a very explosive way. I am in a reading coma from this book the longing , the love from this couple for each other was palpable and heartbreakingly beautiful. Longing and yearning that covers each page with a symphony soundtrack till the very last page , this is a couple that will stay with you and live rent free in your heart for a very long time.
I also commend this author for the exceptional way she portrayed Ella as a strong survivor of SA. Grayson's patience with Ella and not wanting to trigger her in the beginning of their relationship, her courageously seeking therapy all of the things she did to heal how he held her and listened after a nightmare. I loved each piece the side characters played and how well developed all of them were the reader gets invested in them all even the bad evil ones.
If you loved Lauren Asher's Dreamland Billionaire series , or Claire Conteras Until I Get You , this is your book series .
This series will be found in my Fave Billionaire series of 2023.
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