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Love in Belle Pont #1
Under The Cypress Tree
When Archer blew out of town six years ago, he took Annabeth Richard’s heart with him. With a head full of hope and promises, she waited for his return. But when he didn’t, Annabeth was left to pick up the pieces without him.
Archer Beaufait signed up for the Army fresh on the heels of Graduation. He wanted to make something of himself, but he never expected to be going to war. He’d made his fair share of mistakes, but after six long years, he realized it was time to come home. The only problem was, the life he’d left behind and the people he hurt weren’t real eager to see him return. Especially not Annabeth Richards.
When the two meet again, old wounds are brought to the surface along with some feelings that never quite went away. But when secrets start coming out of the woodworks, and they realize that time has changed them both, it’s one obstacle they aren’t certain they can overcome.
Archer Beaufait signed up for the Army fresh on the heels of Graduation. He wanted to make something of himself, but he never expected to be going to war. He’d made his fair share of mistakes, but after six long years, he realized it was time to come home. The only problem was, the life he’d left behind and the people he hurt weren’t real eager to see him return. Especially not Annabeth Richards.
When the two meet again, old wounds are brought to the surface along with some feelings that never quite went away. But when secrets start coming out of the woodworks, and they realize that time has changed them both, it’s one obstacle they aren’t certain they can overcome.
First published January 1, 2015
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About the author
Ashleigh Z.
3 books68 followersThese books are not currently available. But may be re-published at a later time.
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Displaying 1 - 28 of 28 reviews
March 9, 2015
(Source: Downloaded for free from Amazon.co.uk)
“I could still remember that day. The day when Archer Beaufait turned my whole world upside down by proclaiming his love for me with nothin’ but a pocket knife and a head full of dreams.”
This was an okay contemporary romance, but I got irritated with the characters.
I felt quite sorry for Annabeth. It was absolutely terrible what Archer had done leaving her high and dry and pregnant, and she had been through so much whilst he had been away. Six years is a heck of a long time not to hear from someone who is supposed to love you.
“I love you Annabeth Richards.”
I also felt sorry for Bentley. It was obvious how much he loved Annabeth, and it was so sad that even though he did so much for her, she couldn’t love him back.
“It was never a lie. Not for me, anyhow.”
Archer on the other hand was an absolute scum bag. Leaving to go to Iraq in the army is one thing, but not calling? Not writing? Being absent without word for 6 years for no obvious reason? He’s an ass!
“Six long years he’d been gone.”
The storyline in this book was about Archer returning to town, and basically trying to pick up where he left off. He was just such an ass though! He didn’t even consider that Annabeth might not still be waiting for him! Didn’t visit his own father to see how he was doing, and didn’t look closely enough at Annabeth’s child to realise that she was his child, just asked her how long she’d been sleeping with his best friend! He was a total ass.
“The way I figure, I have every right to know how long after I was out of the picture my best friend started laying into my…”
I reached out and slapped him across the face before he could even finish that sentence.
We did get some romance and a happily ever after, but I’m afraid I wasn’t impressed. I didn’t get how easily Annabeth forgave Archer and took him back after what he had done! I wouldn’t not have been surprised if he’d upped and left again at some point. What an ass.
6 out of 10
“I could still remember that day. The day when Archer Beaufait turned my whole world upside down by proclaiming his love for me with nothin’ but a pocket knife and a head full of dreams.”
This was an okay contemporary romance, but I got irritated with the characters.
I felt quite sorry for Annabeth. It was absolutely terrible what Archer had done leaving her high and dry and pregnant, and she had been through so much whilst he had been away. Six years is a heck of a long time not to hear from someone who is supposed to love you.
“I love you Annabeth Richards.”
I also felt sorry for Bentley. It was obvious how much he loved Annabeth, and it was so sad that even though he did so much for her, she couldn’t love him back.
“It was never a lie. Not for me, anyhow.”
Archer on the other hand was an absolute scum bag. Leaving to go to Iraq in the army is one thing, but not calling? Not writing? Being absent without word for 6 years for no obvious reason? He’s an ass!
“Six long years he’d been gone.”
The storyline in this book was about Archer returning to town, and basically trying to pick up where he left off. He was just such an ass though! He didn’t even consider that Annabeth might not still be waiting for him! Didn’t visit his own father to see how he was doing, and didn’t look closely enough at Annabeth’s child to realise that she was his child, just asked her how long she’d been sleeping with his best friend! He was a total ass.
“The way I figure, I have every right to know how long after I was out of the picture my best friend started laying into my…”
I reached out and slapped him across the face before he could even finish that sentence.
We did get some romance and a happily ever after, but I’m afraid I wasn’t impressed. I didn’t get how easily Annabeth forgave Archer and took him back after what he had done! I wouldn’t not have been surprised if he’d upped and left again at some point. What an ass.
6 out of 10
March 7, 2015
This was an okay read, but it did bore me at points.
The only character I liked in this was Bentley. The two main characters, Annabeth and Archer, annoyed me quite a few times.
I really don't get why Archer thought not contacting anyone in 6 years was the best thing to do. If he thinks letting everyone think he's dead or something is the best thing to do, he's nuts.
I didn't know what Annabeth was playing at half the time.
The storyline was okay, but it did start to drag a bit when I got to the halfway mark. I just wanted things to get a move on, as it felt like the secret Annabeth was hiding would never come out!
Overall, An okay read.
The only character I liked in this was Bentley. The two main characters, Annabeth and Archer, annoyed me quite a few times.
I really don't get why Archer thought not contacting anyone in 6 years was the best thing to do. If he thinks letting everyone think he's dead or something is the best thing to do, he's nuts.
I didn't know what Annabeth was playing at half the time.
The storyline was okay, but it did start to drag a bit when I got to the halfway mark. I just wanted things to get a move on, as it felt like the secret Annabeth was hiding would never come out!
Overall, An okay read.
March 17, 2015
From time to time I like to read a bit of gentle romance and this was a lovely story about broken hearts being mended and left me with warm fuzzy feelings! I enjoyed all the characters and though I suppose the ending was quite predictable it was definitely the ending I wanted!
Our lovers have both had to deal with adversity and with so much pain in the world it is nice to read of at least one happy ending even if it is fiction.
I liked the setting of a small town where everyone knows everyone's business and the author did a good job with her descriptions of local community life.
If you enjoy an easy to read romance you will definitely enjoy this book.
Our lovers have both had to deal with adversity and with so much pain in the world it is nice to read of at least one happy ending even if it is fiction.
I liked the setting of a small town where everyone knows everyone's business and the author did a good job with her descriptions of local community life.
If you enjoy an easy to read romance you will definitely enjoy this book.
March 26, 2015
I enjoyed reading this book. I found Annabeth (AB) to be convincing as a mom and a once burned twice shy love interest for bad boy Archer. He abandoned his hometown and AB for service in Iraq six years earlier and his own trauma stopped him from ever getting in touch until his surprise return in this novel. He comes home and finds his teen love married to his best friend Bentley and they have a kid! Anger, jealousy, resentment, regret, and confusion not to mention lust and love rule his emotions from the moment he sets eyes on AB again. Bentley is the character I felt really bad for, formerly Archer's best friend he stepped up when AB needed him. His unrequited love for Annabeth was almost tangible at times. The author does an amazing job with the secondary characters and in the small town setting as well. This was a very good read poignant, heartbreaking at times and yet still funny and sweet. If you like romance give this a try and you will not be disappointed!
September 30, 2016
This started off pretty good then quickly, quickly went downhill. The first warning that everything was not going to turn out alright was the cheesy karaoke scene. Then we get to the gross scenes were a man pursues a woman who repeatedly makes it clear she wants nothing to do with him not to mention, for all he knows, is happily married. I also cannot stand when authors don't know how to write children's dialogue. The ending scene when Charlotte put two and two together... my eyes rolled so far back in my head I think I saw my brain. To be completely fair, I do think this book had a good basis. I understand why the hero did what he did, I just don't agree with how he tried to rectify it. I also thought it was a nice touch with the therapy dogs. But the story itself was too far into fantasyland and could've used far more realistic elements in order to be believable.
October 11, 2016
Naaahhhh.
I might be a little bit too harsh giving only 1 start but
• It was too short
• There was no actually reason and/or development of why Archer left and made NO contact for all these years
• There was no actual development of how/why they got back together.
• The writing was very boring.
Even though the story was too clice and common, it could have been easily a 4 star if it was longer, written better and had a better development of the story and the characters.
Nahhhh
I might be a little bit too harsh giving only 1 start but
• It was too short
• There was no actually reason and/or development of why Archer left and made NO contact for all these years
• There was no actual development of how/why they got back together.
• The writing was very boring.
Even though the story was too clice and common, it could have been easily a 4 star if it was longer, written better and had a better development of the story and the characters.
Nahhhh
September 14, 2015
There's an article doing the rounds at the moment by a romance writer, as a defence of the romance genre, in the face of the criticism that the genre often gets. You know the stuff: that it's low brow, vapid, and cliché. The defence runs the line that the Genre is an all encompassing elemental emotional experience that reflects life's desires – and promises emotionally satisfying endings; written by a bunch of fun and talented writers who are able to tap into the entire range of human emotion.
The defence over sells the argument – because while contemporary romance writers do endeavour to achieve all of that – a much larger proportion of the contemporary romance genre than the defender accepts (she says some) is also low brow, vapid, clichéd dross. The fact that a disturbing percentage of the dross is also commercially viable does not unvap the vapid.
So when I find a contemporary romance that has a real measure of quality I tend to go on about it. I liked “Under The Cypress Tree” by Ashleigh Zavarelli. I liked it because it was a simple story told well. And while Zavarelli managed to tick the emotion, desire, satisfying ending boxes; she also did more that that. And most importantly, what she did she did well; really well.
Firstly the prose sparkled. Sure Zavarelli had her characters talking on occasions, softly, decisively, dramatically even. But it wasn't over done – and it didn't detract from the precision of the prose. Prose that did its job of effortlessly allowing the narrative to progress; allowing the characters' voices to come across.
Second, Zavarelli wrote in first person – which I applaud. For a genre that seeks to provide an all encompassing elemental emotional experience that reflects life's desires, so little of it is written in first person. I wonder why, because those human experiences that the genre regards as its treasure, to me anyway, need to be expressed through the character experiencing them – and not through the descriptives of some 3rd person narrator. At least that's my view. It might explain why I think much of Romance is unsatisfying – you know, the formulaic three part 3rd person drama part - where last week's NASCAR driver is this week's billionaire step-brother and next week's Navy Seal. It might also explain why I thought Mariana Zapata's “Kulti” was such a good novel. Maybe that's why I liked “Under The Cypress Tree,” too. Because both Zapata and Zavarelli let their character(s) live the emotional journey, and express their journey (and its effects on them) in their own words.
Third. Zavarelli pulled off the seemingly impossible – in that she made alternate character 1st person narrative work. The characters had separate and distinct voices. Specifically the males narrative centred on the immediate, the visible to him – and he reacted to that which he observed/perceived. Whereas the female voice reflected her own distinct take on the challenges before her, her more (dare I saw it) reflective/thoughtful take.
Fourth. Zavarelli said in 90 or so pages what a lesser writer would have taken 300 pages to say. And she said it well.
It was such a pleasure to read a Contemporary Romance that didn't come at the cost of rotting my brain.
The defence over sells the argument – because while contemporary romance writers do endeavour to achieve all of that – a much larger proportion of the contemporary romance genre than the defender accepts (she says some) is also low brow, vapid, clichéd dross. The fact that a disturbing percentage of the dross is also commercially viable does not unvap the vapid.
So when I find a contemporary romance that has a real measure of quality I tend to go on about it. I liked “Under The Cypress Tree” by Ashleigh Zavarelli. I liked it because it was a simple story told well. And while Zavarelli managed to tick the emotion, desire, satisfying ending boxes; she also did more that that. And most importantly, what she did she did well; really well.
Firstly the prose sparkled. Sure Zavarelli had her characters talking on occasions, softly, decisively, dramatically even. But it wasn't over done – and it didn't detract from the precision of the prose. Prose that did its job of effortlessly allowing the narrative to progress; allowing the characters' voices to come across.
Second, Zavarelli wrote in first person – which I applaud. For a genre that seeks to provide an all encompassing elemental emotional experience that reflects life's desires, so little of it is written in first person. I wonder why, because those human experiences that the genre regards as its treasure, to me anyway, need to be expressed through the character experiencing them – and not through the descriptives of some 3rd person narrator. At least that's my view. It might explain why I think much of Romance is unsatisfying – you know, the formulaic three part 3rd person drama part - where last week's NASCAR driver is this week's billionaire step-brother and next week's Navy Seal. It might also explain why I thought Mariana Zapata's “Kulti” was such a good novel. Maybe that's why I liked “Under The Cypress Tree,” too. Because both Zapata and Zavarelli let their character(s) live the emotional journey, and express their journey (and its effects on them) in their own words.
Third. Zavarelli pulled off the seemingly impossible – in that she made alternate character 1st person narrative work. The characters had separate and distinct voices. Specifically the males narrative centred on the immediate, the visible to him – and he reacted to that which he observed/perceived. Whereas the female voice reflected her own distinct take on the challenges before her, her more (dare I saw it) reflective/thoughtful take.
Fourth. Zavarelli said in 90 or so pages what a lesser writer would have taken 300 pages to say. And she said it well.
It was such a pleasure to read a Contemporary Romance that didn't come at the cost of rotting my brain.
March 28, 2015
Under the Cypress Tree is a sweet romance. Annabeth Richards hasn't seen or heard from Archer Beaufait since he left her to go to Iraq. In the last six years she has continued with her own life in the small town of Belle Pont. But that life is thrown into disarray when Archer returns home. She has secrets but she's still in love with him. And he regrets hurting those he left behind.
I really liked both Archer and Annabelle. Most of their original problems were the result of being too young. Now they've matured and really work to straighten themselves out. It's a somewhat predictable story, but you still root for them to get together. I was warned that some of the dialect is Southern but this Yankee didn't have any issues with that. A lovely and quick read to warm your heart.
I really liked both Archer and Annabelle. Most of their original problems were the result of being too young. Now they've matured and really work to straighten themselves out. It's a somewhat predictable story, but you still root for them to get together. I was warned that some of the dialect is Southern but this Yankee didn't have any issues with that. A lovely and quick read to warm your heart.
dnf
August 19, 2023DNF. Too interrelated to the prior book in the series, all the former main characters from book 1 are heavily featured. Also, the hero of this story was in love with the heroine of book 1 and was with her for several years before the heroine of book 1 replaced him with her own hero. The hero of this book was heartbroken over it but still has a close relationship with the book 1 heroine.
One of my biggest pet peeves when it comes to interrelated books...the heroine of this series now feels second best because her hero would have chosen the heroine of book 1 if she hadn't rejected him!
Also, the 'cheating' was pretty minor and not angsty -- he purposely arranged a hookup with a skank OW he had no feelings for to scare away the heroine.
One of my biggest pet peeves when it comes to interrelated books...the heroine of this series now feels second best because her hero would have chosen the heroine of book 1 if she hadn't rejected him!
Also, the 'cheating' was pretty minor and not angsty -- he purposely arranged a hookup with a skank OW he had no feelings for to scare away the heroine.
June 14, 2017
Under the Cypress Tree
This was a sweet love story and yet painful for what our boys come home from Iraq have so much healing to go through. The story was well written and you could feel yourself in the story.
This was a sweet love story and yet painful for what our boys come home from Iraq have so much healing to go through. The story was well written and you could feel yourself in the story.
July 11, 2019
One of the best romantic stories!
August 6, 2015
Two teenagers, Archer and Annabeth, promise to be together under a cypress tree before the boyfriend goes off to war and doesn’t show up until six years later. There is a love triangle. Annabeth has a child from Archer, and she rushes into marriage with a high school friend name Bentley.
I felt bad for Bentley. He seemed like a really sweet guy. He was there for Annabeth and Charlotte when Archer wasn’t. He basically was the father to Charlotte. It doesn’t matter about DNA. I think if the situation was different, and Charlotte was older she probably would have picked Bentley over Archer. She probably wouldn’t have wanted anything to do with Archer seeing the way he left her mom without a word. Bentley did everything he could for Annabeth, he just couldn’t reach her standards because she couldn’t move on from the past, regardless if she believed she had. I guess it just goes to show that no matter what you do you can’t make a person fall in love with you.
I thought the way Annabeth treated Bentley was unfair. I felt like she kind of used him. She was pregnant and her parents kicked her out, what else could possibly go wrong? People were talking anyway even when she and Bentley hooked up. She seemed like a strong woman. I felt like she could’ve stayed a single mother and gotten through whatever life had to throw at her with her head held high. Bentley would have been there for her regardless if they were married or not. They didn’t even have a compatible marriage to begin with.
Archer had me confused from the start. Here was the girl of his dreams, the one he promised to spend the rest of his life with, and he couldn’t even give her a call once a month! I guess I sort of understand that with the whole Iraq situation. I imagine he was traumatized with some of the stuff he experienced. But gosh! In The Notebook least Noah tried to get a hold of Allie! And then all the obvious questions he asked Annabeth like why had she become so aloof had me real annoyed. I mean, Hello? Why do you think, mister??
I couldn't really decide between four or three stars. The two main characters both had issues that left me frustrated at some points. The writing is very good though and the ending satisfies.
I felt bad for Bentley. He seemed like a really sweet guy. He was there for Annabeth and Charlotte when Archer wasn’t. He basically was the father to Charlotte. It doesn’t matter about DNA. I think if the situation was different, and Charlotte was older she probably would have picked Bentley over Archer. She probably wouldn’t have wanted anything to do with Archer seeing the way he left her mom without a word. Bentley did everything he could for Annabeth, he just couldn’t reach her standards because she couldn’t move on from the past, regardless if she believed she had. I guess it just goes to show that no matter what you do you can’t make a person fall in love with you.
I thought the way Annabeth treated Bentley was unfair. I felt like she kind of used him. She was pregnant and her parents kicked her out, what else could possibly go wrong? People were talking anyway even when she and Bentley hooked up. She seemed like a strong woman. I felt like she could’ve stayed a single mother and gotten through whatever life had to throw at her with her head held high. Bentley would have been there for her regardless if they were married or not. They didn’t even have a compatible marriage to begin with.
Archer had me confused from the start. Here was the girl of his dreams, the one he promised to spend the rest of his life with, and he couldn’t even give her a call once a month! I guess I sort of understand that with the whole Iraq situation. I imagine he was traumatized with some of the stuff he experienced. But gosh! In The Notebook least Noah tried to get a hold of Allie! And then all the obvious questions he asked Annabeth like why had she become so aloof had me real annoyed. I mean, Hello? Why do you think, mister??
I couldn't really decide between four or three stars. The two main characters both had issues that left me frustrated at some points. The writing is very good though and the ending satisfies.
April 14, 2015
Set in under a Cypress tree in Belle Pont, LA., Archer Beaufait (Army, AB) was going off to war in Iraq. He told Annabeth Richards he loved her.
Annabeth worked at Murphy’s Bar & Grill. Irma, Amy, Dawn & Tino worked there also.
It’s been 6 yrs. & no Archer (PTSD). Out of nowhere he walks in Tucker’s Grocers (Henri) where Annabeth is shopping. Annabeth informed him that she married Bentley Daniels.
This W/E was the Belle Pont Crawfish Festival.
Then Annabeth’s Belle Pont Annual Strawberry Jamboree. The proceeds go to the research & treatment of Congenital Heart Defects in Children.
Archer buys the Montgomery property & is going to raise/train dogs for the military & others.
Who is Charlotte?
“porkin’” We used that word. Every body’s favorite “s’mores”
I just want to say you don’t walk out on a woman’s life, you choose the military because that is the profession you want to do. Even in war you are still providing for your loved ones.
I did not receive any type of compensation for reading & reviewing this book. While I receive free books from publishers & authors, I am under no obligation to write a positive review. Only an honest one.
A very awesome book cover, great font & writing style. Wow, a very well written powerful romantic book. It was very easy for me to read/follow from start/finish & never a dull moment. There were no grammar/typo errors, nor any repetitive or out of line sequence sentences. Lots of exciting scenarios, with several twists/turns & a great set of unique characters to keep track of. This could also make another Great War romance movie, or mini TV series. I am a retired Army vet. I don’t normally read this stuff, but what a fantastic love story. If you have any heart at all it will touch you. There is no doubt in my mind this is a very easy rating of 5 stars.
Thank you for the free Goodreads; Author; PDF book
Tony Parsons MSW (Washburn)
Annabeth worked at Murphy’s Bar & Grill. Irma, Amy, Dawn & Tino worked there also.
It’s been 6 yrs. & no Archer (PTSD). Out of nowhere he walks in Tucker’s Grocers (Henri) where Annabeth is shopping. Annabeth informed him that she married Bentley Daniels.
This W/E was the Belle Pont Crawfish Festival.
Then Annabeth’s Belle Pont Annual Strawberry Jamboree. The proceeds go to the research & treatment of Congenital Heart Defects in Children.
Archer buys the Montgomery property & is going to raise/train dogs for the military & others.
Who is Charlotte?
“porkin’” We used that word. Every body’s favorite “s’mores”
I just want to say you don’t walk out on a woman’s life, you choose the military because that is the profession you want to do. Even in war you are still providing for your loved ones.
I did not receive any type of compensation for reading & reviewing this book. While I receive free books from publishers & authors, I am under no obligation to write a positive review. Only an honest one.
A very awesome book cover, great font & writing style. Wow, a very well written powerful romantic book. It was very easy for me to read/follow from start/finish & never a dull moment. There were no grammar/typo errors, nor any repetitive or out of line sequence sentences. Lots of exciting scenarios, with several twists/turns & a great set of unique characters to keep track of. This could also make another Great War romance movie, or mini TV series. I am a retired Army vet. I don’t normally read this stuff, but what a fantastic love story. If you have any heart at all it will touch you. There is no doubt in my mind this is a very easy rating of 5 stars.
Thank you for the free Goodreads; Author; PDF book
Tony Parsons MSW (Washburn)
September 23, 2015
Talk about complications...Ashleigh Zavarelli has created the most intriguing and most heated romance novel known to readers word wide. Under the Cypress Tress is one enormous tangle that involves two past lover's whose love and lust for one another has never died and only flares upp once again, when the man returns back home. Everything appears to be the same to Archer, but then something about his love peaks his interest. Her smile is gone and she appears sad. Was it because of him and if so, can he fix whatever wrong he has done before it's too late?
Under the Cypress Tree is one beautifully written romances that will continnue to grab readers' hearts. It's no surprise as to why. Ashleigh Zaverelli has talent that shines brightly through her words on every page. Intrigue, a bit of msytery, the past love that hurts and a secret untold. Readers won't be able to stay away from the main characters. Both Archer and Anneabeth tug at reader's hearts sending them so many emotions as though they were the reader's alone to face. Once you read the first page, you won't stop until you read the rest. A real page turner that keeps readers lured in until the very ending. I love a good romance that brings to life the characters journey as they solve their past mistakes and try to heal and mend the distance that came between them. I highly recommend this stunning piece to all. Under the Cypress Tree is a magical romantic journey that will transform the way readers feel and think about love and life itself. Overall, I rate it a five out of five stars.
Under the Cypress Tree is one beautifully written romances that will continnue to grab readers' hearts. It's no surprise as to why. Ashleigh Zaverelli has talent that shines brightly through her words on every page. Intrigue, a bit of msytery, the past love that hurts and a secret untold. Readers won't be able to stay away from the main characters. Both Archer and Anneabeth tug at reader's hearts sending them so many emotions as though they were the reader's alone to face. Once you read the first page, you won't stop until you read the rest. A real page turner that keeps readers lured in until the very ending. I love a good romance that brings to life the characters journey as they solve their past mistakes and try to heal and mend the distance that came between them. I highly recommend this stunning piece to all. Under the Cypress Tree is a magical romantic journey that will transform the way readers feel and think about love and life itself. Overall, I rate it a five out of five stars.
February 26, 2015
Ashleigh Zavarelli is a native of Montana whom currently lives in Australia. A newly published author and 'Under the Cypress' was a delightful read. This is the first installment to a debut series.
Friendship, love, love lost, and untold consequence follows throughout these pages. The main character's Annabeth and Archer are a seemingly happy young couple in love - That is until Archer joins the army fresh after graduation. Promises are made to one another but hope slowly disappears for Annabeth as the years role past as she awaits for his return.
It is now six years later when he finally returns home to a town full of people he once left behind including his love, Annabeth. Feelings start to emerge as the reader is taken into 'Under the Cypress Tree' as secrets soon start to surface -
An uplifting and heart felt novel with bouts of wit and charming character playfulness. A very detailed back drop emerges to life as romance persuades a bitter-sweet game. The narrator's come from the points of view of both Archer and Annabeth, a refreshing element that I don't see much of in this particular genre.
I can't wait to see what the author has in store for us in the next sequence of events as she maps out pen to paper for the next book.
An entertaining read.
I was given a copy for evaluation and an unbiased review.
Friendship, love, love lost, and untold consequence follows throughout these pages. The main character's Annabeth and Archer are a seemingly happy young couple in love - That is until Archer joins the army fresh after graduation. Promises are made to one another but hope slowly disappears for Annabeth as the years role past as she awaits for his return.
It is now six years later when he finally returns home to a town full of people he once left behind including his love, Annabeth. Feelings start to emerge as the reader is taken into 'Under the Cypress Tree' as secrets soon start to surface -
An uplifting and heart felt novel with bouts of wit and charming character playfulness. A very detailed back drop emerges to life as romance persuades a bitter-sweet game. The narrator's come from the points of view of both Archer and Annabeth, a refreshing element that I don't see much of in this particular genre.
I can't wait to see what the author has in store for us in the next sequence of events as she maps out pen to paper for the next book.
An entertaining read.
I was given a copy for evaluation and an unbiased review.
March 26, 2015
What a gifted writer! It is not often I am transported into a book. When I am it is hard to put it down and come back to reality, Under the Cypress Tree was one such book. The crafting of characters was skillful and detailed in an easy to read way. I felt I was in the south, sipping sweet tea with Archer and AB, gossiping with all the regulars at the bar.
This was a story of lost love, learning to heal, and finding that sometimes there are second chances if we can learn to trust again.
Archer and AB had a once in a lifetime kind of love, when Archer goes off to join the army he leaves behind a heartbroken Annabeth who struggles to stand on her own two feet and try to mend her broken heart. Upon returning, Archer, wounded from battle in body and spirit, wants to go back to the way things were, and find comfort and peace in his hometown with the girl he never stopped loving. But when life moves on, it is hard to simply pick up where things left off.
Ashleigh Zavarelli has a real talent for crafting a heartwarming story with depth and color. Her perfect dialog structure brings the people in Belle Pont, Louisiana, to life with detail and flare.
I will be consuming all of Ms. Zavarelli's works in the future!
This was a story of lost love, learning to heal, and finding that sometimes there are second chances if we can learn to trust again.
Archer and AB had a once in a lifetime kind of love, when Archer goes off to join the army he leaves behind a heartbroken Annabeth who struggles to stand on her own two feet and try to mend her broken heart. Upon returning, Archer, wounded from battle in body and spirit, wants to go back to the way things were, and find comfort and peace in his hometown with the girl he never stopped loving. But when life moves on, it is hard to simply pick up where things left off.
Ashleigh Zavarelli has a real talent for crafting a heartwarming story with depth and color. Her perfect dialog structure brings the people in Belle Pont, Louisiana, to life with detail and flare.
I will be consuming all of Ms. Zavarelli's works in the future!
April 12, 2015
Aw what a cute book! As it was a really short read, I completed it in one sitting whilst listening to powers love ballads in the background. Under the Cypress Tree was adorable, to put it simply. I loved all of the characters especially Charlotte and Archer.
The selling point for me was the heavy southern accents. I fell head over heels for Archer's southern drawl and charm. If I was Annabeth I would have struggled to keep my distance from the very beginning. As an Australian with an unhealthy obsession with putting on a (very terrible) southern accent, this book was absolutely perfect.
The author kept you reading with all of the love and passion and hate. Whilst the plot was quite predictable, I thought it worked better that way. If the story hadn't turned out the way I was expecting (I won't say too much but the ending is beautiful) I would have been very disappointed.
I would recommend this book to anyone who is after a quick little read to make them feel warm, fuzzy and very happy. The romance in this book is appropriate for pretty much anyone and will have you sighing over how cute it is, I can promise you that. I thoroughly enjoyed this book and I hope that everyone else who read sit will feel the same.
The selling point for me was the heavy southern accents. I fell head over heels for Archer's southern drawl and charm. If I was Annabeth I would have struggled to keep my distance from the very beginning. As an Australian with an unhealthy obsession with putting on a (very terrible) southern accent, this book was absolutely perfect.
The author kept you reading with all of the love and passion and hate. Whilst the plot was quite predictable, I thought it worked better that way. If the story hadn't turned out the way I was expecting (I won't say too much but the ending is beautiful) I would have been very disappointed.
I would recommend this book to anyone who is after a quick little read to make them feel warm, fuzzy and very happy. The romance in this book is appropriate for pretty much anyone and will have you sighing over how cute it is, I can promise you that. I thoroughly enjoyed this book and I hope that everyone else who read sit will feel the same.
March 29, 2015
I couldn’t quit reading this story (and I paid the next morning for staying up late reading)! I was drawn in by the depth of love, passion, anger, and frustration the characters have for each other.
Annabeth and Archer were high school sweethearts until Archer joined the Army and never looked back. Returning six years later, he finds Annabeth married to his best friend with a five year-old little girl. We follow them through the rediscovery of their feelings for each other while they learn not only about the changes six years brought to each of them but the secrets of the past.
I enjoyed the interaction of the characters, their loyalty to loved ones, and my favorite character happened to be Archer’s father, Walter, and the way Ashleigh handled his dialogue. I’m looking forward to the next love story that develops in Belle Pont.
Annabeth and Archer were high school sweethearts until Archer joined the Army and never looked back. Returning six years later, he finds Annabeth married to his best friend with a five year-old little girl. We follow them through the rediscovery of their feelings for each other while they learn not only about the changes six years brought to each of them but the secrets of the past.
I enjoyed the interaction of the characters, their loyalty to loved ones, and my favorite character happened to be Archer’s father, Walter, and the way Ashleigh handled his dialogue. I’m looking forward to the next love story that develops in Belle Pont.
April 10, 2015
Love, love, LOVED this story. I started reading it last night and had to force myself to put my Kindle away so I could at least get SOME sleep.
With the story being based in the south, Ashleigh does a fantastic job of pulling you into Annabeth's and Archer's story with slow, southern drawls, southern charm, and methodically developed characters.
I immediately liked Annabeth. She's stubborn, independent, charming, and willing to do anything for her daughter. She's been through hell and back and is desperately trying to gain some control back over her life. Enter Archer, Annabeth's childhood love, and the secrets start coming unraveled as well as Annabeth's carefully planned out life.
Both main characters are completely relatable and the supporting cast is full of people I want to get to know better. I can't wait to read the second in this series! (Downloading it now, in fact!)
With the story being based in the south, Ashleigh does a fantastic job of pulling you into Annabeth's and Archer's story with slow, southern drawls, southern charm, and methodically developed characters.
I immediately liked Annabeth. She's stubborn, independent, charming, and willing to do anything for her daughter. She's been through hell and back and is desperately trying to gain some control back over her life. Enter Archer, Annabeth's childhood love, and the secrets start coming unraveled as well as Annabeth's carefully planned out life.
Both main characters are completely relatable and the supporting cast is full of people I want to get to know better. I can't wait to read the second in this series! (Downloading it now, in fact!)
April 3, 2015
This was an enjoyable sweet romance about two teenage lovers who separated when Archer went to war. Annabeth was left behind expecting archer to call and write and was devastated when he didn't. Fast forward 6 years and archer is back but so much has happened to Annabeth since he left that a reunion is not something she can consider even though she still loves him.
I liked the writing style and pacing and would have liked to understand archers motivation for leaving and not keeping in touch more. That said, I enjoyed the story and would read the next installment. A sweet romantic read.
I liked the writing style and pacing and would have liked to understand archers motivation for leaving and not keeping in touch more. That said, I enjoyed the story and would read the next installment. A sweet romantic read.
August 20, 2015
I really enjoyed Under the Cypress Tree. The story captured me in the first emotional paragraphs, and I couldn't wait to see what came next. I thought the dialogue and setting was exactly right for the story too. At times I got very aggravated at the two main characters, but they eventually got their heads on straight and did what their hearts wanted to do. The supporting characters were great, especially Bentley who I'm glad to find has a book of his own.
If you're looking for a short, feel-good read, I can totally recommend Under The Cypress Tree.
If you're looking for a short, feel-good read, I can totally recommend Under The Cypress Tree.
March 17, 2015
From the outset of this story, I think just about every reader will be able to figure out where it’s headed (a little like The Notebook). What was fun for me wasn’t so much the destination, but the journey. The author does an amazing job of converting accents to dialogue, and the narration was excellent as well! As for Annabeth, I really enjoyed her as a heroine, since she didn’t have that ‘she’s perfect, everyone likes her’ quality.
March 26, 2015
I understood Annabeth, I understood Bently, and I felt dreadfully sorry for both of them. The pain they both went through was clear, and so well written. When you find yourself almost shouting at the characters as if they were real people making damn stupid choices, you know the author has done a good job.
For me, the HEA was between the wrong people, but that's life.
August 21, 2015
Read this a while ago now, but this is probably the sweetest story of Ashleigh's and no matter how many times I read it, I always finish it with a smile on my face.
Beautifully written romance that's not too heavy on smut or drama, which somehow works to make this book perfect!
Way to go, Ashleigh!
Beautifully written romance that's not too heavy on smut or drama, which somehow works to make this book perfect!
Way to go, Ashleigh!
February 21, 2015
If you are looking for a story to make you smile this is the book you need to read. Great characters, fun and witty. If you have ever lived in a small town, you can probably put a name from your town to each of the characters in this book. Can't wait for the next one.
May 9, 2016
Another good romance story from this author.
I like the work she puts in to their past and present storyline.
The relationships between each character and it be a soft romance.
Look forward to the next part of the story to see what happens between Bentley and roxy.
I like the work she puts in to their past and present storyline.
The relationships between each character and it be a soft romance.
Look forward to the next part of the story to see what happens between Bentley and roxy.
March 15, 2015
I liked this book. It wasn't too long, or too dragging and had some dialogues that really touches you. If you are into second chances novel, you should give it a go.
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