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Then We Became
Not yet published
Expected 22 Jan 26A year ago, everything fell apart.
Now, a summer in Eden could either piece them back together-or destroy them completely.
Nora
London was supposed to be my fresh start-a writing scholarship, new opportunities, a chance to move forward. But no amount of distance could erase the ghost of Nate Sullivan. When a twist of fate lands me in Spain for a week, the last person I expect to see is him. Older, quieter, and still holding all the pieces of my heart.
Nate
I left Eden to get clean, to escape the wreckage I'd left behind. A year in Spain has taught me how to breathe again, how to face my demons without letting them devour me. But nothing could prepare me for seeing her again-the girl I let down, the girl who made walking away feel like losing everything.
Eight months of silence.
One unexpected reunion.
And a wedding back in Eden that neither of us can avoid.
Can two people who've lost their way find their way back to each other? Or will this summer in Eden become the final chapter of their story?
A heartfelt and deeply emotional sequel about redemption, second chances, and the kind of love that's worth fighting for-even when it feels like the fight has already been lost.
Now, a summer in Eden could either piece them back together-or destroy them completely.
Nora
London was supposed to be my fresh start-a writing scholarship, new opportunities, a chance to move forward. But no amount of distance could erase the ghost of Nate Sullivan. When a twist of fate lands me in Spain for a week, the last person I expect to see is him. Older, quieter, and still holding all the pieces of my heart.
Nate
I left Eden to get clean, to escape the wreckage I'd left behind. A year in Spain has taught me how to breathe again, how to face my demons without letting them devour me. But nothing could prepare me for seeing her again-the girl I let down, the girl who made walking away feel like losing everything.
Eight months of silence.
One unexpected reunion.
And a wedding back in Eden that neither of us can avoid.
Can two people who've lost their way find their way back to each other? Or will this summer in Eden become the final chapter of their story?
A heartfelt and deeply emotional sequel about redemption, second chances, and the kind of love that's worth fighting for-even when it feels like the fight has already been lost.
378 pages, Paperback
Expected publication January 22, 2026
93 people want to read
About the author
Monique Medved
3 books204 followersMonique writes stories about following your gut and figuring life out along the way (spoiler: she's still figuring it out.)
She'd almost always rather have her nose in a book than do just about anything else. When she's not creating her own fictional worlds and characters, she's totally lost in someone else's.
And on those rare occasions when she's not reading or writing? She's either jumping out of perfectly good airplanes, exploring ocean depths, or nursing a massive coffee addiction while her dog Bobbi gives her judgmental looks from across the room.
Want to know what Mon's up to?
If you don't want to miss her next book drop, hit the Follow button.
Or follow her on socials:
Tiktok: @monnwrites
Instagram: @authormoniquemedved
She'd almost always rather have her nose in a book than do just about anything else. When she's not creating her own fictional worlds and characters, she's totally lost in someone else's.
And on those rare occasions when she's not reading or writing? She's either jumping out of perfectly good airplanes, exploring ocean depths, or nursing a massive coffee addiction while her dog Bobbi gives her judgmental looks from across the room.
Want to know what Mon's up to?
If you don't want to miss her next book drop, hit the Follow button.
Or follow her on socials:
Tiktok: @monnwrites
Instagram: @authormoniquemedved
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 36 reviews
Review of advance copy received from Author
Then We Became - Monique Medved
I feel so incredibly privileged to have read the arc of this book! The second book of the Every Summer After series.
After reading Before We Were, I was SO excited to read this and it was even better than I imagined.
I loved reading more about Nora and Nate's story and going on such a rollercoaster of emotions. This book had me kicking my feet, absolutely furious, scared and devastated in all the best ways and it was such beautifully heartbreaking journey from start to finish.
There were so many unexpected parts to this book that had my heart racing and I could not believe how things turned out.
Nick for me is one of my favourite characters in this book with such a genuine soul. A particular character who I completely misjudged who broke my heart a little. Jay had me laughing out loud and there are a few characters who I have no words for. But Nate and Nora, they have my whole heart.
Monique's writing is poetic and powerful and this book is more than just a book, it hurts you, heals you and everything in between.
I am so excited for the next book of the series to see where the story leads to.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
I feel so incredibly privileged to have read the arc of this book! The second book of the Every Summer After series.
After reading Before We Were, I was SO excited to read this and it was even better than I imagined.
I loved reading more about Nora and Nate's story and going on such a rollercoaster of emotions. This book had me kicking my feet, absolutely furious, scared and devastated in all the best ways and it was such beautifully heartbreaking journey from start to finish.
There were so many unexpected parts to this book that had my heart racing and I could not believe how things turned out.
Nick for me is one of my favourite characters in this book with such a genuine soul. A particular character who I completely misjudged who broke my heart a little. Jay had me laughing out loud and there are a few characters who I have no words for. But Nate and Nora, they have my whole heart.
Monique's writing is poetic and powerful and this book is more than just a book, it hurts you, heals you and everything in between.
I am so excited for the next book of the series to see where the story leads to.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
December 24, 2025
Monique can literally write anything and it would be 5 star. I don’t even know where to begin with this one.
I loved being back into the world of Nate and Nora, their story resonated with me so much in book one. I loved being inside their heads, it was complex it was full of so much emotion.
This book, WOW. The pacing was perfect, it wasn’t rushed. I still connected so deeply with the characters. There were moments when my heart ached for them, when it was excited for them, and tried my best to hold back the tears for them. Even if this book was 1000 pages I still would have been locked in from page one. There’s just something so comforting about Mon’s writing, I will never get sick of it. It takes real talent to be able to put so much emotion into words without going into too much detail and I think she has perfected it in the most beautiful way.
This book also broke me, and healed me in many ways. The characters have gone through hell and back and I just want a dang win for them in the end. I’m so excited for book 3! Let’s freakin gooooo! 🩷
I loved being back into the world of Nate and Nora, their story resonated with me so much in book one. I loved being inside their heads, it was complex it was full of so much emotion.
This book, WOW. The pacing was perfect, it wasn’t rushed. I still connected so deeply with the characters. There were moments when my heart ached for them, when it was excited for them, and tried my best to hold back the tears for them. Even if this book was 1000 pages I still would have been locked in from page one. There’s just something so comforting about Mon’s writing, I will never get sick of it. It takes real talent to be able to put so much emotion into words without going into too much detail and I think she has perfected it in the most beautiful way.
This book also broke me, and healed me in many ways. The characters have gone through hell and back and I just want a dang win for them in the end. I’m so excited for book 3! Let’s freakin gooooo! 🩷
Review of advance copy received from Author
Ahhhhhhh!! This book, man 😭🥰
Obviously, I had expectations after book one, and they were exceeded! I was so desperate to go back to Eden and spend time with Nate and Nora that I reread Before We Were and followed it straight up with Then We Became - it was perfection 🤌🏻
The characters are so beautifully written, and I feel like I'm living alongside them. This is rare for me to find in a book, but I love it so much when I do. It's not often that I am dying to read a book because it's so good and I want to know what happens, but also trying not to read it because I'm not ready to leave the world, but this book does it!
The storyline broke me and put me back together... and broke me again and then somewhat put me back together... enough that I think I can survive waiting for book 3, but it'll be tough!!
Obviously, I had expectations after book one, and they were exceeded! I was so desperate to go back to Eden and spend time with Nate and Nora that I reread Before We Were and followed it straight up with Then We Became - it was perfection 🤌🏻
The characters are so beautifully written, and I feel like I'm living alongside them. This is rare for me to find in a book, but I love it so much when I do. It's not often that I am dying to read a book because it's so good and I want to know what happens, but also trying not to read it because I'm not ready to leave the world, but this book does it!
The storyline broke me and put me back together... and broke me again and then somewhat put me back together... enough that I think I can survive waiting for book 3, but it'll be tough!!
December 23, 2025
i don’t think anyone will ever do it for me the way that monique does it because wow … ! before we were meant so much to me that i think when a second book you always become nervous to see what is going to happen next for the characters you love so deeply but i was not left disappointed at all ! the way monique writes is just so beautiful and real , when i read the things nora was dealing with at the beginning of the book and ofcourse still during i just saw so much of myself in her it has been a while since i found a character that is so close to me in so many ways like going through the same things she had to just felt so comforting to me because it made me feel seen. seeing her and nate trying to navigate things together after everything was beautiful and i truly do feel like they are meant for one another. the complexity in these characters is something i love so much because it is real. they are human and they make mistakes. jake and nate absolutely tore me to pieces this book and all i wanted was for them to be okay. this book definitely felt like it took a darker turn which i loved ! the twists at the end and the utter heartbreak god i felt empty finishing this book but in the best feeling because monique took all my emotions and just ripped them to pieces :’) i feel like i could keep going on but i think you should just go read it for yourself and see :) but wow what a amazing amazing book !!! ❤️🩹
monique thank you so so much for the arc i’m forever grateful!
monique thank you so so much for the arc i’m forever grateful!
January 2, 2026
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ INFINITY STARS
Then We Became is not just a love story — it’s a deeply emotional exploration of every relationship we experience throughout life and how those connections shape who we become. This series captures love in all its forms: romantic, familial, chosen family, and self-love, and it does so with breathtaking honesty.
Monique Medved is an incredible storyteller. Her writing is poetic, raw, and deeply immersive — the kind that pulls you in and refuses to let go. I was completely gripped, emotionally wrecked, and utterly invested from beginning to end. This book shattered my heart into a million pieces… and somehow gently patched it back together again.
Picking up right where Before We Were left off, we follow Nora as she seeks a fresh start in London, and Nate as he faces his demons while living in Spain. When their paths cross again, it feels like no time has passed — but everything has changed. Their connection is powerful, complicated, and achingly real. The emotional maturity in these characters, especially Nora, is astounding, and their journey together is both beautiful and devastating.
The story is fast-paced and packed with emotion. Just when you think you can breathe, Monique delivers moments that completely undo you. The side characters are just as meaningful, adding depth, warmth, and heartbreak in equal measure. This book highlights that family doesn’t always come from blood — it comes from the people who show up, love unconditionally, and stand beside you no matter what.
I sobbed. I raged. I felt healed and broken all at once. I finished this book sleep-deprived, emotionally unwell, and utterly obsessed. The final portion absolutely destroyed me, and yes — that cliffhanger AGAIN. I genuinely don’t know how Monique does it, but I don’t think she’s capable of writing anything less than a five-star book.
Nate and Nora are etched into my heart. I think about them constantly, and I will be counting down the days until the final book. If you do one thing, pick up this series — it will stay with you long after the last page.
Beautiful. Soul-crushing. Unforgettable. 💔📚✨
Then We Became is not just a love story — it’s a deeply emotional exploration of every relationship we experience throughout life and how those connections shape who we become. This series captures love in all its forms: romantic, familial, chosen family, and self-love, and it does so with breathtaking honesty.
Monique Medved is an incredible storyteller. Her writing is poetic, raw, and deeply immersive — the kind that pulls you in and refuses to let go. I was completely gripped, emotionally wrecked, and utterly invested from beginning to end. This book shattered my heart into a million pieces… and somehow gently patched it back together again.
Picking up right where Before We Were left off, we follow Nora as she seeks a fresh start in London, and Nate as he faces his demons while living in Spain. When their paths cross again, it feels like no time has passed — but everything has changed. Their connection is powerful, complicated, and achingly real. The emotional maturity in these characters, especially Nora, is astounding, and their journey together is both beautiful and devastating.
The story is fast-paced and packed with emotion. Just when you think you can breathe, Monique delivers moments that completely undo you. The side characters are just as meaningful, adding depth, warmth, and heartbreak in equal measure. This book highlights that family doesn’t always come from blood — it comes from the people who show up, love unconditionally, and stand beside you no matter what.
I sobbed. I raged. I felt healed and broken all at once. I finished this book sleep-deprived, emotionally unwell, and utterly obsessed. The final portion absolutely destroyed me, and yes — that cliffhanger AGAIN. I genuinely don’t know how Monique does it, but I don’t think she’s capable of writing anything less than a five-star book.
Nate and Nora are etched into my heart. I think about them constantly, and I will be counting down the days until the final book. If you do one thing, pick up this series — it will stay with you long after the last page.
Beautiful. Soul-crushing. Unforgettable. 💔📚✨
Review of advance copy received from Author
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ ARC READ Review 💕
Firstly before I break, I want to thank Monique for the opportunity to ARC read this beautiful story. I really appreciate you 🩷 xxx
Wow...🥲 I Just finished this earlier today and I had to have a real moment to myself. I feel lost, sad, I'm staring numb and emotionally heartbroken. I've cried tears. But all that said, you've ruined me in the best possible way.
I'm trying to keep majority spoiler free so I want to say, I'm so proud of each and every character in this story. How much they have all developed, the growth, the acknowledgement of past and future decisions.
This beautiful story shows that loving support and family does not always come from blood. It comes from those who love you unconditionally and will always have you, they show up and believe in you, they give you their trust.
I knew this was going to be another five star read for me following the first book 'Before We Were'. Monique has this beautiful, poetic writing style that I feel deep with understanding. The descriptive emotions and situations in the storyline make me really feel the raw account of Monique's portraying process. I absolutely love it!
The love between Nate and Nora is so beautiful and I'll be thinking of this story everyday to come until we get to see the outcome in book three. I can't wait, Just wow.....
Thankyou so much for another 5⭐ read.🩷
Firstly before I break, I want to thank Monique for the opportunity to ARC read this beautiful story. I really appreciate you 🩷 xxx
Wow...🥲 I Just finished this earlier today and I had to have a real moment to myself. I feel lost, sad, I'm staring numb and emotionally heartbroken. I've cried tears. But all that said, you've ruined me in the best possible way.
I'm trying to keep majority spoiler free so I want to say, I'm so proud of each and every character in this story. How much they have all developed, the growth, the acknowledgement of past and future decisions.
This beautiful story shows that loving support and family does not always come from blood. It comes from those who love you unconditionally and will always have you, they show up and believe in you, they give you their trust.
I knew this was going to be another five star read for me following the first book 'Before We Were'. Monique has this beautiful, poetic writing style that I feel deep with understanding. The descriptive emotions and situations in the storyline make me really feel the raw account of Monique's portraying process. I absolutely love it!
The love between Nate and Nora is so beautiful and I'll be thinking of this story everyday to come until we get to see the outcome in book three. I can't wait, Just wow.....
Thankyou so much for another 5⭐ read.🩷
December 30, 2025
[5⭐️]
first of all i just wanted to thank monique for the arc copy and for allowing me to read this masterpiece early!! i didn’t doubt her for a single second when it came to this book. i am completely obsessed with this series and these characters. even though this book was slightly shorter then book 1 the pacing to me was still perfect. there were so many moments when i was happy for them, and then sad for them, and then annoyed for them. that’s one thing monique is so good at, making you feel so many emotions all within such a short time. one thing i need to mention is monique’s writing, because omg it is just unlike anything else ive ever read. it’s so poetic and just all round magical. i absolutely love the side characters in these books and even though the story isn’t mainly revolved around them, i love seeing their adventures just as much as nate and nora. speaking of, i absolutely loved seeing their growth as characters individually and as a pair… but obviously there is something major that happens towards the end of this book, which yes did have me in tears (thank you for that monique) and which also massively derailed that progress a little. but this just means that we have more things to look forward to in book 3, which i can’t wait to read whenever that’s released. all in all this has been a great end to 2025, and what a fantastic book to end it on!!
first of all i just wanted to thank monique for the arc copy and for allowing me to read this masterpiece early!! i didn’t doubt her for a single second when it came to this book. i am completely obsessed with this series and these characters. even though this book was slightly shorter then book 1 the pacing to me was still perfect. there were so many moments when i was happy for them, and then sad for them, and then annoyed for them. that’s one thing monique is so good at, making you feel so many emotions all within such a short time. one thing i need to mention is monique’s writing, because omg it is just unlike anything else ive ever read. it’s so poetic and just all round magical. i absolutely love the side characters in these books and even though the story isn’t mainly revolved around them, i love seeing their adventures just as much as nate and nora. speaking of, i absolutely loved seeing their growth as characters individually and as a pair… but obviously there is something major that happens towards the end of this book, which yes did have me in tears (thank you for that monique) and which also massively derailed that progress a little. but this just means that we have more things to look forward to in book 3, which i can’t wait to read whenever that’s released. all in all this has been a great end to 2025, and what a fantastic book to end it on!!
January 5, 2026
ARC Review: Then We Became by Monique Medved
📚 Release Date: 22.01.26
i was beyond thrilled to receive an ARC of Then We Became - thank you, Monique! 🥰 after absolutely loving Before We Were, my expectations for this sequel were sky-high… and wow, this book did not disappoint.
from the very first page, Monique delivers a story that feels both intimate and expansive. the emotional depth, the character growth, and the way she crafts such rich, heartfelt storytelling; it’s nothing short of a masterpiece. every chapter pulled me in deeper, and by the end, i was left in awe of how beautifully everything came full circle.
Monique is such a gem, and her writing reflects that warmth and sincerity. she knows how to make you feel every word. honestly, this book didn’t just meet my expectations, it exceeded them in every way.
✨ Special shout-out to the acknowledgements section - i adored it! it felt so personal and heartfelt, like a love letter to the readers and everyone who made this journey possible. it’s rare to finish a book and then linger over the acknowledgements with a smile, but that’s exactly what happened here.
if you loved Before We Were, trust me: When We Became will deliver everything you hoped for and more. add this to your TBR immediately - you won’t regret it!
📚 Release Date: 22.01.26
i was beyond thrilled to receive an ARC of Then We Became - thank you, Monique! 🥰 after absolutely loving Before We Were, my expectations for this sequel were sky-high… and wow, this book did not disappoint.
from the very first page, Monique delivers a story that feels both intimate and expansive. the emotional depth, the character growth, and the way she crafts such rich, heartfelt storytelling; it’s nothing short of a masterpiece. every chapter pulled me in deeper, and by the end, i was left in awe of how beautifully everything came full circle.
Monique is such a gem, and her writing reflects that warmth and sincerity. she knows how to make you feel every word. honestly, this book didn’t just meet my expectations, it exceeded them in every way.
✨ Special shout-out to the acknowledgements section - i adored it! it felt so personal and heartfelt, like a love letter to the readers and everyone who made this journey possible. it’s rare to finish a book and then linger over the acknowledgements with a smile, but that’s exactly what happened here.
if you loved Before We Were, trust me: When We Became will deliver everything you hoped for and more. add this to your TBR immediately - you won’t regret it!
January 13, 2026
Firstly, what a privilege to be given the opportunity to read yet another one of Monique’s artistic works.
After finishing ‘Before We Were’, I knew I was intrigued to see the journey the world of Eden could lead to. With characters so well thought out and complex in their issues and stories, I knew the sequel was not to be missed.
And boy was I right, this book was everything it promised to be and more. Full of emotional turmoil and moments of pure joy and love that had me kicking my feet. To see the journey of Nora and Nate have been on not only together but their individual trouble as well has me wanting more!
This book truly throws you some curveballs that will have reads turning those pages faster than you can blink. It had the perfect balance of tragedy and hope that had me locked in from the first page.
Mon, your writing is truly something to be studied. There are only few writers I’ve seen that are able to pull out the emotion you do behind the written words, you truly have a talent with writing less but giving more emotional impact to your readers.
I cannot wait to see where you take this world and as well as future projects, you are going to be a sure thing in the world of authors.
After finishing ‘Before We Were’, I knew I was intrigued to see the journey the world of Eden could lead to. With characters so well thought out and complex in their issues and stories, I knew the sequel was not to be missed.
And boy was I right, this book was everything it promised to be and more. Full of emotional turmoil and moments of pure joy and love that had me kicking my feet. To see the journey of Nora and Nate have been on not only together but their individual trouble as well has me wanting more!
This book truly throws you some curveballs that will have reads turning those pages faster than you can blink. It had the perfect balance of tragedy and hope that had me locked in from the first page.
Mon, your writing is truly something to be studied. There are only few writers I’ve seen that are able to pull out the emotion you do behind the written words, you truly have a talent with writing less but giving more emotional impact to your readers.
I cannot wait to see where you take this world and as well as future projects, you are going to be a sure thing in the world of authors.
December 26, 2025
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ ALL-THE-FERAL-FUCKING-STARS.
I went into this book terrified.
Monique Mendev has an uncanny ability to gut you like a fish on dry land, and deep down I knew it was coming. I tried to prepare myself. I braced for the pain. I knew it would be brutal. And let me tell you, not a single one of those assessments was wrong.
I am, needless to say, unwell. I want to scream. I want to cry. But I am far too angry for tears right now.
I don’t understand how it’s possible for an author to make me this feral over fictional characters, but once again she has succeeded. Her writing is beautiful, soul-crushing, raw, and deeply emotional. Every word felt intentional, every moment heavy, and I was completely enamored from start to finish.
My soul may be in pieces, but I am utterly obsessed with these characters and hopelessly invested in their journey. I will be counting the days until the next and final book.
I went into this book terrified.
Monique Mendev has an uncanny ability to gut you like a fish on dry land, and deep down I knew it was coming. I tried to prepare myself. I braced for the pain. I knew it would be brutal. And let me tell you, not a single one of those assessments was wrong.
I am, needless to say, unwell. I want to scream. I want to cry. But I am far too angry for tears right now.
I don’t understand how it’s possible for an author to make me this feral over fictional characters, but once again she has succeeded. Her writing is beautiful, soul-crushing, raw, and deeply emotional. Every word felt intentional, every moment heavy, and I was completely enamored from start to finish.
My soul may be in pieces, but I am utterly obsessed with these characters and hopelessly invested in their journey. I will be counting the days until the next and final book.
December 21, 2025
Book Review: Then We Became by Monique Medved
Then We Became is one of those quietly powerful novels that sneaks up on you. it unfolds in a poetic way with tenderness, inviting you to sit with the characters as they grow, break, and slowly piece themselves back together.
What stands out most is how human the characters feel. Their flaws are real, their emotions raw, and Medved doesn’t romanticise pain but she shows us all how hardship can shape who we become without defining us entirely.
No words can summarize this book for me.. I was on the edge of my seats. Also I finished this within two days?! Not only was I sleep deprived but like I had to know what was next. I don’t want to spoil anything so I’ll just state that this book aka my kindle never left my side in those two days it was just that good and gripping. I had to know what happened
Then We Became is one of those quietly powerful novels that sneaks up on you. it unfolds in a poetic way with tenderness, inviting you to sit with the characters as they grow, break, and slowly piece themselves back together.
What stands out most is how human the characters feel. Their flaws are real, their emotions raw, and Medved doesn’t romanticise pain but she shows us all how hardship can shape who we become without defining us entirely.
No words can summarize this book for me.. I was on the edge of my seats. Also I finished this within two days?! Not only was I sleep deprived but like I had to know what was next. I don’t want to spoil anything so I’ll just state that this book aka my kindle never left my side in those two days it was just that good and gripping. I had to know what happened
January 5, 2026
I don’t think I’ve ever been on an emotional rollercoaster quite like this one.
This book was frankly, both heaven and hell. The words were like gospel, yet it was torture reading them because it was so damn good, but it has now completely messed me up.
This book is freaking amazing, and Mon has truly gone above and beyond with it. I thought Before We Were was great, but this?
This is a damn masterpiece.
I can’t stress this enough: please have tissues next to you. And not just a few—the whole box. You’ll need them.
Reading this book has been a truly amazing experience and I hate how I have to leave Eden until the next book arrives—because that ending is the worst (yet best) kind of torture.
Thank you Mon for allowing me to ARC read this because it has truly set the bar high for 2026, and I’m really not sure how any of my other reads are going to compare to this 🩷
This book was frankly, both heaven and hell. The words were like gospel, yet it was torture reading them because it was so damn good, but it has now completely messed me up.
This book is freaking amazing, and Mon has truly gone above and beyond with it. I thought Before We Were was great, but this?
This is a damn masterpiece.
I can’t stress this enough: please have tissues next to you. And not just a few—the whole box. You’ll need them.
Reading this book has been a truly amazing experience and I hate how I have to leave Eden until the next book arrives—because that ending is the worst (yet best) kind of torture.
Thank you Mon for allowing me to ARC read this because it has truly set the bar high for 2026, and I’m really not sure how any of my other reads are going to compare to this 🩷
Review of advance copy received from Author
Mon could write anything and it’s an instant read for me. Goes to the top of my TBR. I read this in one nightshift and was crying, willing it not to end. Absolutely broke my heart and I’d still say thank you to Mon for writing it 🧚♂️
Nat and Nora have pieces of my heart. Two people meant to be? Right person wrong time? Absolute perfection *chefs kiss* 🤌🤌
I connected with all the characters no matter the role they played, and the writing is comforting, lyrical and feels like talking to an old friend. It’s an addiction, and I’ll happily say I am an addict. I’m so excited for more of this series and what lies ahead in the universe that is Eden.
This book is poetry, it flows, it’s raw and is a perfect sequel to Mon’s debut novel. I feel privileged that I got to read this Arc and can’t wait for everyone to fall in love with this series and writing the way I have!
Nat and Nora have pieces of my heart. Two people meant to be? Right person wrong time? Absolute perfection *chefs kiss* 🤌🤌
I connected with all the characters no matter the role they played, and the writing is comforting, lyrical and feels like talking to an old friend. It’s an addiction, and I’ll happily say I am an addict. I’m so excited for more of this series and what lies ahead in the universe that is Eden.
This book is poetry, it flows, it’s raw and is a perfect sequel to Mon’s debut novel. I feel privileged that I got to read this Arc and can’t wait for everyone to fall in love with this series and writing the way I have!
Review of advance copy received from Author
I'm still processing but I am destroyed right now, in the best way, of course 😭😭😭
Ok, I'm ready.
'Then We Became' by @authormoniquemedved - book two in the Every Summer After series.
♾️ read, what a way to end the year.
Have I ended the year emotionally distraught? Yes, yes I have. My emotions are up and down as a result of this book. I feel healed and broken all at once. I am still tearing up just thinking about the last 30% of this book and writing this 😭
I really don't want to give anything away but we pick up where we left off with Nate and Nora from book 1 and get straight back into emotional turmoil.
There are such beautiful moments between these two, whilst such a heavy side story for Nate and his family. There is such an emotional maturity attached to Nora, who I forget is only 17/18 in this book.
Monique is such an incredible writer, who brings out every emotion possible. Her words draw you in and absorb you into the story, right from page one.
I was impatiently waiting for this book and it did not disappoint... now to impatiently wait for the rest of the series 😅🫠
Ok, I'm ready.
'Then We Became' by @authormoniquemedved - book two in the Every Summer After series.
♾️ read, what a way to end the year.
Have I ended the year emotionally distraught? Yes, yes I have. My emotions are up and down as a result of this book. I feel healed and broken all at once. I am still tearing up just thinking about the last 30% of this book and writing this 😭
I really don't want to give anything away but we pick up where we left off with Nate and Nora from book 1 and get straight back into emotional turmoil.
There are such beautiful moments between these two, whilst such a heavy side story for Nate and his family. There is such an emotional maturity attached to Nora, who I forget is only 17/18 in this book.
Monique is such an incredible writer, who brings out every emotion possible. Her words draw you in and absorb you into the story, right from page one.
I was impatiently waiting for this book and it did not disappoint... now to impatiently wait for the rest of the series 😅🫠
Review of advance copy received from Author
Then we became was such a fantastic read and so well written! I really enjoyed following on Nate and Nora’s journey and how cruel but necessary the path life leads us to find each other over and over again. Watching the characters development and journeys in time and into adulthood, navigating all the hard real life things has been really encapsulating to read and the way the author rights is incredible and really brings the reader in! I felt like I was back with Joey at times in the world of boys of tommen, the ravenhood series all exceptional books iv read and gave me the same euphoria. I cannot wait for book 3 and what a privilege to be able to ARC read this Thankyou Mon!
Review of advance copy received from Author
Arc Read.
OMG why do I do this to myself…… emotional rollercoaster I just knew it was going to be. Mon is a true gift to the world, her writing style is insanely smooth and easy to read with such in-depth descriptions - it’s like you right there. After having read before we were and just falling in love with Nate and Nora, I was both excited and anxious for the next instalment as I just KNEW it would be emotional and hit all the feels.
You’ve knocked it out the park again Mon! I’m honoured to have been an arc for all of your works thus far and my god am I excited to see how your next masterpiece reads!
♾️ 🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟
OMG why do I do this to myself…… emotional rollercoaster I just knew it was going to be. Mon is a true gift to the world, her writing style is insanely smooth and easy to read with such in-depth descriptions - it’s like you right there. After having read before we were and just falling in love with Nate and Nora, I was both excited and anxious for the next instalment as I just KNEW it would be emotional and hit all the feels.
You’ve knocked it out the park again Mon! I’m honoured to have been an arc for all of your works thus far and my god am I excited to see how your next masterpiece reads!
♾️ 🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟
January 12, 2026
Never before have I been so absorbed that I couldn't put a book down until it was finished. Mon's writing is powerful and amazingly descriptive so much so, I felt like I was alongside the main characters, Nora & Nate in every page I read, experiencing their happy & sad, heartbreaking & tender moments in Then We Became.
I went on an emotional roller coaster ride and loved every minute. In the story, Nora says "And for a moment - just a moment - it feels like the whole universe is waiting to see what we'll do next". That's just how I feel. I'm ready and waiting for the next book in the series. Please don't make me wait too long Mon and thanks for the chance to be an ARC reader.
I went on an emotional roller coaster ride and loved every minute. In the story, Nora says "And for a moment - just a moment - it feels like the whole universe is waiting to see what we'll do next". That's just how I feel. I'm ready and waiting for the next book in the series. Please don't make me wait too long Mon and thanks for the chance to be an ARC reader.
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
That's it. Then we became is how im finishing the year up on a very high note. And I feel like I'm going to need a few weeks to recover from all the emotional damage in this one. This book had me sobbing, a blubbering mess at 5.30am in the morning because I just had to finish it, I had too. But I think the book finished me. The way Monique writes and describes how people can feel. It honestly hits you in all the right places. It hits home. If you do anything please pick up this series. it'll be one of your best reads for the year.
Review of advance copy received from Author
My heart can’t handle all that is Nate and Nora ♥️
I loved every part of this book, so much so, I read it in less than 24 hours! I couldn’t put it down! I needed to know what happened next, I was captivated by all of it!
I’m in awe of Monique’s storytelling ability, the way she is able to make you feel like you’re right there, part of the story, feeling every emotion, so raw and so beautiful.
Nate and Nora’s story is etched into my heart, I’ve honestly thought about them every day since I finished it Please don’t make us wait too long for Book 3!
I loved every part of this book, so much so, I read it in less than 24 hours! I couldn’t put it down! I needed to know what happened next, I was captivated by all of it!
I’m in awe of Monique’s storytelling ability, the way she is able to make you feel like you’re right there, part of the story, feeling every emotion, so raw and so beautiful.
Nate and Nora’s story is etched into my heart, I’ve honestly thought about them every day since I finished it Please don’t make us wait too long for Book 3!
January 5, 2026
😭😭😭
I hadn’t stopped thinking about Before We Were after finishing it. I needed to know what happened next, if everyone was okay, how things transpired… enter: Then We Became. It felt as if it started off slowly, but my god, once I got into a good rhythm, I couldn’t put this down.
My thoughts while reading:
—The first sighting 🥹
—“Stay” 😭😭😭
—A chapter from Jake!!!
—Hold on, I don’t like this… Monty, when I find you, I swear to god
—Guess I’ll just keep crying then
A big thanks to Mon for choosing me to be an ARC reader 🫶
I hadn’t stopped thinking about Before We Were after finishing it. I needed to know what happened next, if everyone was okay, how things transpired… enter: Then We Became. It felt as if it started off slowly, but my god, once I got into a good rhythm, I couldn’t put this down.
My thoughts while reading:
—The first sighting 🥹
—“Stay” 😭😭😭
—A chapter from Jake!!!
—Hold on, I don’t like this… Monty, when I find you, I swear to god
—Guess I’ll just keep crying then
A big thanks to Mon for choosing me to be an ARC reader 🫶
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
December 28, 2025
What the heck 😭😭
I don’t think Mon will ever not write a 5 star book! Then We Became exceeded all of my expectations!! This book was seriously devastating.. it will rip your heart out and then patch it back together 😭
Monique has a way of writing emotions that make reading feel so special and poetic, it really does pull you in!
I could not put this book down honestly and I’m gonna need 5 business days to recover 😭
I don’t think Mon will ever not write a 5 star book! Then We Became exceeded all of my expectations!! This book was seriously devastating.. it will rip your heart out and then patch it back together 😭
Monique has a way of writing emotions that make reading feel so special and poetic, it really does pull you in!
I could not put this book down honestly and I’m gonna need 5 business days to recover 😭
Review of advance copy received from Author
Another phenomenal read from Monique..
I'm not sure how as I loved Before we Came but this book was just better.. More insightful, more detailed.. It makes you feel like you're in every scene, like I am apart of Nate and Noras story, I can visualise the pain and the love shared between all the characters.
I am very excited for the next book in this world and I will always reach for a Monique's book without hesitation..
Please keep the books coming x
I'm not sure how as I loved Before we Came but this book was just better.. More insightful, more detailed.. It makes you feel like you're in every scene, like I am apart of Nate and Noras story, I can visualise the pain and the love shared between all the characters.
I am very excited for the next book in this world and I will always reach for a Monique's book without hesitation..
Please keep the books coming x
Review of advance copy received from Author
I really enjoyed this second book in the series. The story was easy to fall back into and kept me engaged the whole way through. I liked seeing the characters and relationships continue to develop, and it definitely felt like a strong continuation rather than just filler. It’s a solid, absorbing read and left me keen to pick up the next book to see where the story goes. Thank you to Monique for the ARC :)
January 16, 2026
ARC Review: Thank you to BookFunnel for the opportunity to read this book as an ARC.
This was a highly anticipated read for me—Before We Were was one of my top ten books of the 2025—and this installment did not disappoint. It was beautifully written, emotionally heavy, and downright devastating in parts. From early on, I felt a sense of looming doom, and sure enough…it delivered. I’m equal parts wrecked and excited as I look ahead to the final arc of Nate and Nora’s story.
This was a highly anticipated read for me—Before We Were was one of my top ten books of the 2025—and this installment did not disappoint. It was beautifully written, emotionally heavy, and downright devastating in parts. From early on, I felt a sense of looming doom, and sure enough…it delivered. I’m equal parts wrecked and excited as I look ahead to the final arc of Nate and Nora’s story.
Review of advance copy received from Author
SOBBBBINGGG. Another heart-wrenching masterpiece from Monique. Thought Book 1 was a wild ride? This one is an emotional rollercoaster and then some. Be sure to strap yourself in!
With it's almost poetic writing and beautifully pieced together story, I absolutely devoured this book within a day. I could not put it down, and I cannot wait for the next one!
With it's almost poetic writing and beautifully pieced together story, I absolutely devoured this book within a day. I could not put it down, and I cannot wait for the next one!
Review of advance copy received from Indie Reviewers
This book is unreal, I read this arc is 12 hrs I could not put it down. Monique is a fabulous story teller and has you gripped and routing for the characters. I was an emotional mess reading this but it was worth it. I can’t wait for the next one to come out and this hasn’t even been released yet 😂. You definitely need to read before we were if you haven’t already so this makes sense.
Review of advance copy received from Indie Reviewers
Mon what are you doing to me? My heart is broken. I have cried and cried for Nora, Nate and Jake!!!
Mon has this ability to shatter your soul and at the same time and I can’t get enough. I adored this book, it was beautifully written. Can’t wait to see if Scott gets what he what he deserves in the next book!!
Mon has this ability to shatter your soul and at the same time and I can’t get enough. I adored this book, it was beautifully written. Can’t wait to see if Scott gets what he what he deserves in the next book!!
January 1, 2026
Well Monique has done it again. INFINITY STARSSSS!! This book broke me so much I’ve been sobbing for an hour. This was so beautiful and so perfect I love this so much I can’t wait for the last one! I genuinely can’t believe the cliff hanger AGHHHH I JUST LOVE THIS SERIES SO MUCH THANK YOU MONIQUE FOR THE ARC
January 3, 2026
Monique is amazing !
This book takes you on so many emotional roller coasters !
So much love and soul went into this book !
Usually I’d have it read in 2 days but I was dragging it out as I didn’t want it to end !
Already wishing and hoping there is a 3rd book cause I need more I can’t get enough
BRB going back and reading Before we were and Then we become back to back
This book takes you on so many emotional roller coasters !
So much love and soul went into this book !
Usually I’d have it read in 2 days but I was dragging it out as I didn’t want it to end !
Already wishing and hoping there is a 3rd book cause I need more I can’t get enough
BRB going back and reading Before we were and Then we become back to back
Review of advance copy received from Author
This was fast paced but in the best way. Monique, what are you doing to my poor little heart 😩 again, so profound.
This series isn’t just a love story, it encompasses every single relationship you have through your life and how they impact and shape you.
I need more, like right now
This series isn’t just a love story, it encompasses every single relationship you have through your life and how they impact and shape you.
I need more, like right now
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