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Dare to Love #3
Now and Then
Brynn Ahearn is gorgeous, fun, and not just a sports nut but an NBA camera woman whose work takes her all over the country. In other words, she’s a walking male fantasy—or at least, she would be if she weren’t so busy keeping the guys at bay. The fact is, with Brynn’s con-man father fresh out of jail and back in her life, dating is just too risky. Haunted by memories of her past, she couldn’t ask any man to gamble with his life for love—even one as addictive as Ford Meyers.
Ford can’t believe his luck when he walks into a bar in Chicago’s Wicker Park and gets an eyeful of Brynn, the one that got away. After the gorgeous redhead blew him off in college, Ford got on with his life and made his fortune as a bestselling game designer, but he’s never found a woman who compared to Brynn. No stranger to success, Ford is used to getting what he wants—and after a scorching stolen kiss, what he wants is a second shot with his first love. To get it, he just has to convince her that he’s man enough to take on the past she can’t leave behind.
Ford can’t believe his luck when he walks into a bar in Chicago’s Wicker Park and gets an eyeful of Brynn, the one that got away. After the gorgeous redhead blew him off in college, Ford got on with his life and made his fortune as a bestselling game designer, but he’s never found a woman who compared to Brynn. No stranger to success, Ford is used to getting what he wants—and after a scorching stolen kiss, what he wants is a second shot with his first love. To get it, he just has to convince her that he’s man enough to take on the past she can’t leave behind.
173 pages, Kindle Edition
First published January 19, 2016
131 people are currently reading
1045 people want to read
About the author
Mira Lyn Kelly
93 books2,745 followersFor Mira's latest book news, sign up for her newsletter at http://www.miralynkelly.com/newsletter
Hard core romantic, stress baker, and housekeeper non-extraordinaire, Mira Lyn Kelly is the USA TODAY bestselling author of more than a dozen sizzly love stories with over a million readers worldwide. Growing up in the Chicago area, she earned her degree in Fine Arts from Loyola University and met the love of her life while studying abroad in Rome, Italy… only to discover he’d been living right around the corner from her back home. Having spent her twenties working and playing in the Windy City, she’s now settled with her husband in rural Minnesota, where their four amazing children and two ridiculous dogs provide an excess of action and entertainment. When she isn’t reading, writing, or running the kids around, she loves watching the Chicago Blackhawks and action/adventure movies, blabbing with the girls, and cooking with her husband and friends.
Hard core romantic, stress baker, and housekeeper non-extraordinaire, Mira Lyn Kelly is the USA TODAY bestselling author of more than a dozen sizzly love stories with over a million readers worldwide. Growing up in the Chicago area, she earned her degree in Fine Arts from Loyola University and met the love of her life while studying abroad in Rome, Italy… only to discover he’d been living right around the corner from her back home. Having spent her twenties working and playing in the Windy City, she’s now settled with her husband in rural Minnesota, where their four amazing children and two ridiculous dogs provide an excess of action and entertainment. When she isn’t reading, writing, or running the kids around, she loves watching the Chicago Blackhawks and action/adventure movies, blabbing with the girls, and cooking with her husband and friends.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 119 reviews
July 27, 2020
DNF @ 55%
I wish I enjoyed this book as much as I enjoyed the first two in the series. 😐
I wish I enjoyed this book as much as I enjoyed the first two in the series. 😐
February 23, 2016
4 Stars
Confession time: the only thing I remember from Touch & Go is that it made me fall in love with this author and this series and made me want Ford's book desperately. But that's it. Damn my puny brain memory because I couldn't even tell you what it was about Ford that intrigued me. All I knew is that I needed to have this book. So when I saw the synopsis and realized that not only am I getting his book but it's a second chance romance?
After the game he designed, Ford's career blew up. After being burned by people that are interested only in his success and money, Ford is weary about who he lets in. The while out at a bar one night, he spots the girl that's always held his heart...even though she was also the one that shattered it back in college.
Brynn Ahearn never got over Ford but he'll never know the truth of why she left if she could help it. One night of passion with the love of her life can't hurt, right? Something she can store in her memory banks for years to come...too bad Ford is determined on not settling for anything less than her whole heart.
Now and Then was a wonderfully steamy of second chances and forgiveness. You know the secret that Brynn is hiding that's keeping her from going for it with Ford, but Ford is left in the dark until mainly the end. While I can understand Brynn's thinking and sympathize with it, I did find myself wishing at times she would at least come clean with Ford. Though Ford was a bit secretive about a few things about himself to be fair.
The story is great and with just enough feeling to it so it's not fluffy. Yet it's not quite intense either. It's one of those light and easy reads that also packs on a little bit of feels and a whole lot of steam and it was exactly what I was looking for. If you haven't read this series yet, I highly recommend it. You really can't go wrong. Mira Lyn Kelly knows how to give good romance.
Graphics are stock purchased and created by me for DGR blog. Please don't share without permission
ARC courtesy of publisher via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review
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There was something primal about the way he felt with her. It was unreasonable. Irrational. And he didn't fucking care, because that feeling was so good, the only thing that mattered was making sure he got more.
Confession time: the only thing I remember from Touch & Go is that it made me fall in love with this author and this series and made me want Ford's book desperately. But that's it. Damn my puny brain memory because I couldn't even tell you what it was about Ford that intrigued me. All I knew is that I needed to have this book. So when I saw the synopsis and realized that not only am I getting his book but it's a second chance romance?
After the game he designed, Ford's career blew up. After being burned by people that are interested only in his success and money, Ford is weary about who he lets in. The while out at a bar one night, he spots the girl that's always held his heart...even though she was also the one that shattered it back in college.
Brynn Ahearn never got over Ford but he'll never know the truth of why she left if she could help it. One night of passion with the love of her life can't hurt, right? Something she can store in her memory banks for years to come...too bad Ford is determined on not settling for anything less than her whole heart.
Now and Then was a wonderfully steamy of second chances and forgiveness. You know the secret that Brynn is hiding that's keeping her from going for it with Ford, but Ford is left in the dark until mainly the end. While I can understand Brynn's thinking and sympathize with it, I did find myself wishing at times she would at least come clean with Ford. Though Ford was a bit secretive about a few things about himself to be fair.
The story is great and with just enough feeling to it so it's not fluffy. Yet it's not quite intense either. It's one of those light and easy reads that also packs on a little bit of feels and a whole lot of steam and it was exactly what I was looking for. If you haven't read this series yet, I highly recommend it. You really can't go wrong. Mira Lyn Kelly knows how to give good romance.
Graphics are stock purchased and created by me for DGR blog. Please don't share without permission
ARC courtesy of publisher via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review
Find me on:
December 26, 2015
4 Fordtastic Stars
I have to start out by saying I love this series and have anxiously awaited each new book to the point of stalking the author's page. Book 2 just came out? Fabulous! Now, when the hell can I expect book 3? Yeah, that's kinda how this series has gone for me. This book was no exception.
“Jesus, Brynn,” he growled against her lips. “You make my heart hurt, but I swear, it’s in the best fucking way.”
Ford and Brynn have a bit of a history. As college folks, they fell head over heels for each other until Brynn broke it off when she abruptly left school, never to be heard from again. That is, until that fateful night when Ford catches a glimpse of a hottie with crazy red hair and a Ms. Pac man t-shirt. Catching up over drinks proves the sparks are still there, so the question remains; Why the hell does Brynn keep running from the sizzling hotness that is Ford?
Bryan has some pretty valid reasons for trying her damndest to keep Ford at a distance. Regardless, when faced with Ford and the inevitable magical sexy times, Brynn gives in and hopes her father and his shady lifestyle don't force her to give up Ford. Again.
Though not my favorite couple from this series, I enjoyed Ford and Brynn together. I wasn't sure what to expect from the somewhat quiet and often awkward Ford I'd gotten to know from the previous two books, but he definitely lived up to his potential.
I had a difficult time warming up to Brynn, but only because her back and forth, "I want a relationship but we can't be together" crap got real old, real quick. Ford made up for it by chasing her but never falling at her feet and begging. I like a man with a little backbone!
Despite those issues, this could've easily been a 5 star read for me had it not been for the characters from the previous books being virtually M.I.A. There were a few Ava sightings and the barest hint of Sam, but where was Maggie and her snarky comments? Where were the fabulous group get togethers? The group dynamic is one of the things I loved most about the first two books in the series and it's almost nonexistent here.
This series continues to produce solid and enjoyable stories and despite some issues I had with Now and Then, I continue to hold out hope Mira Lyn Kelly continues writing books centered around this kick ass group of friends and family.
ARC provided by the publisher via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review
I have to start out by saying I love this series and have anxiously awaited each new book to the point of stalking the author's page. Book 2 just came out? Fabulous! Now, when the hell can I expect book 3? Yeah, that's kinda how this series has gone for me. This book was no exception.
“Jesus, Brynn,” he growled against her lips. “You make my heart hurt, but I swear, it’s in the best fucking way.”
Ford and Brynn have a bit of a history. As college folks, they fell head over heels for each other until Brynn broke it off when she abruptly left school, never to be heard from again. That is, until that fateful night when Ford catches a glimpse of a hottie with crazy red hair and a Ms. Pac man t-shirt. Catching up over drinks proves the sparks are still there, so the question remains; Why the hell does Brynn keep running from the sizzling hotness that is Ford?
Bryan has some pretty valid reasons for trying her damndest to keep Ford at a distance. Regardless, when faced with Ford and the inevitable magical sexy times, Brynn gives in and hopes her father and his shady lifestyle don't force her to give up Ford. Again.
Though not my favorite couple from this series, I enjoyed Ford and Brynn together. I wasn't sure what to expect from the somewhat quiet and often awkward Ford I'd gotten to know from the previous two books, but he definitely lived up to his potential.
I had a difficult time warming up to Brynn, but only because her back and forth, "I want a relationship but we can't be together" crap got real old, real quick. Ford made up for it by chasing her but never falling at her feet and begging. I like a man with a little backbone!
Despite those issues, this could've easily been a 5 star read for me had it not been for the characters from the previous books being virtually M.I.A. There were a few Ava sightings and the barest hint of Sam, but where was Maggie and her snarky comments? Where were the fabulous group get togethers? The group dynamic is one of the things I loved most about the first two books in the series and it's almost nonexistent here.
This series continues to produce solid and enjoyable stories and despite some issues I had with Now and Then, I continue to hold out hope Mira Lyn Kelly continues writing books centered around this kick ass group of friends and family.
ARC provided by the publisher via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review
January 21, 2016
3.5 stars!
Another book that I really enjoyed but didn't outright love. I've been waiting for Ford's story since the first book, and after the amazingness of Touch & Go, my expectations were ridiculously high. And that's probably why I was a bit disappointed with this.
I loved Ford. He's the type of beta hero that I love reading about in my romance. He's gorgeous, smart, quiet and a loyal friend. Brynn on the other hand annoyed me. Yes, I sympathized with her. The things she had to deal with weren't easy. But I hated the martyr act she had going throughout the book. I understand she doesn't want Ford to be dragged along her family's problems but oh my God, woman. Let the guy decide for himself!!! I liked that she wanted to protect Ford but her constant evasiveness and constant running annoyed me. The miscommunication annoyed me. It annoyed me even more because Ford was trying so hard to make them work and she just runs every time things get difficult. If she had been younger, yes, this behavior would have been understandable. But at 29 years old? Yeah, no.
I did love the epilogue. I'm sad that there wasn't much cameo with the previous couples in the series. I would have loved to see a little bit more of Sam, Tyler and Maggie. At least, Ava was in it a lot more, which I really appreciate.
FWIW, this series still remains a favorite of mine, and I would gladly recommend this for readers who are looking for a series that's a bit on the lighter side with a touch of angst and steam.
ARC provided by the publisher in exchange for an honest review.
Another book that I really enjoyed but didn't outright love. I've been waiting for Ford's story since the first book, and after the amazingness of Touch & Go, my expectations were ridiculously high. And that's probably why I was a bit disappointed with this.
I loved Ford. He's the type of beta hero that I love reading about in my romance. He's gorgeous, smart, quiet and a loyal friend. Brynn on the other hand annoyed me. Yes, I sympathized with her. The things she had to deal with weren't easy. But I hated the martyr act she had going throughout the book. I understand she doesn't want Ford to be dragged along her family's problems but oh my God, woman. Let the guy decide for himself!!! I liked that she wanted to protect Ford but her constant evasiveness and constant running annoyed me. The miscommunication annoyed me. It annoyed me even more because Ford was trying so hard to make them work and she just runs every time things get difficult. If she had been younger, yes, this behavior would have been understandable. But at 29 years old? Yeah, no.
I did love the epilogue. I'm sad that there wasn't much cameo with the previous couples in the series. I would have loved to see a little bit more of Sam, Tyler and Maggie. At least, Ava was in it a lot more, which I really appreciate.
FWIW, this series still remains a favorite of mine, and I would gladly recommend this for readers who are looking for a series that's a bit on the lighter side with a touch of angst and steam.
ARC provided by the publisher in exchange for an honest review.
January 19, 2016
NOW LIVE!!!
*Amazon US*Amazon UK*Barnes & Noble*
Brynn has been living with the disappointment of having a con-man for a father for her whole life. Going to college was supposed to be her way out of his life and away from the terrorizing bookies that her father owes. For awhile she was able to live free of her dad and even fell in love. But then she was sucked back into the life of her con-man father and she had to leave that love behind.
Years later she's made a name for herself in sports photography and has a good job she uses to support her mother, and her father is out of her life and in jail. Then she see's Ford, her college love she's never gotten over. Right when she thinks she can finally be happy again, though, she gets the news that her dad is out of jail and she may have to break Ford's heart all over again.
This was a great second chance love and I really liked Ford. He was really sweet and understanding when he found out what Brynn was going through and it was totally swoon worthy. The whole story was fast paced and had it's funny moments along with the sexy, and sweet ones. I haven't read the first two books in this series yet but I'm definitely going to go back to read them.
Bottom line, this is a great story and fans of second chance romances will love it. I didn't have any problems with reading this one before the first two but the previous characters are mentioned.
ARC kindly provided via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review
*Amazon US*Amazon UK*Barnes & Noble*
Brynn has been living with the disappointment of having a con-man for a father for her whole life. Going to college was supposed to be her way out of his life and away from the terrorizing bookies that her father owes. For awhile she was able to live free of her dad and even fell in love. But then she was sucked back into the life of her con-man father and she had to leave that love behind.
Years later she's made a name for herself in sports photography and has a good job she uses to support her mother, and her father is out of her life and in jail. Then she see's Ford, her college love she's never gotten over. Right when she thinks she can finally be happy again, though, she gets the news that her dad is out of jail and she may have to break Ford's heart all over again.
This was a great second chance love and I really liked Ford. He was really sweet and understanding when he found out what Brynn was going through and it was totally swoon worthy. The whole story was fast paced and had it's funny moments along with the sexy, and sweet ones. I haven't read the first two books in this series yet but I'm definitely going to go back to read them.
Bottom line, this is a great story and fans of second chance romances will love it. I didn't have any problems with reading this one before the first two but the previous characters are mentioned.
ARC kindly provided via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review
February 4, 2016
4 - "I'm not the nice guy I was ten years ago." Stars!
The third book in the Dare to Love series didn’t disappoint. And to say I was a little leery when I started this one would be an understatement. I am not a huge fan of long drawn out familial drama, especially when it revolves around loser parents, and a supposedly grown adult letting them run roughshod all over them.
Luckily the author pitched Brynn’s family issues just right in that they didn’t play a huge part until I was well into the second half of the book. Although this makes me sound completely unreasonable in view of my first paragraph, I would go as far as to say they were almost too ’cut & dried’ in their resolution with Ford, riding in on his big white horse to save the day.
I really like the friends to lovers trope, and Mira really gave this couple a great reconnection. Their story was quick to get going, the few flashbacks you were given to their time together ten years previous gave the relationship depth, and the sexy-times between them were stellar.
”I want to taste all your peaks… Lick through all your valleys.”
My only other niggle and it is a small one is that we didn’t see a huge amount of involvement from the rest of the group as we have in the previous two books, which was a bit of a disappointment as the banter is always stellar, and the small amounts that there were in Now and Then lived up to expectations.
I hope this isn’t the end of the series, the author has created a great cast of characters, and I would like to see more from them in the future.
ARC generously provided via Netgalley, and it was my pleasure to provide the above honest review.
The third book in the Dare to Love series didn’t disappoint. And to say I was a little leery when I started this one would be an understatement. I am not a huge fan of long drawn out familial drama, especially when it revolves around loser parents, and a supposedly grown adult letting them run roughshod all over them.
Luckily the author pitched Brynn’s family issues just right in that they didn’t play a huge part until I was well into the second half of the book. Although this makes me sound completely unreasonable in view of my first paragraph, I would go as far as to say they were almost too ’cut & dried’ in their resolution with Ford, riding in on his big white horse to save the day.
I really like the friends to lovers trope, and Mira really gave this couple a great reconnection. Their story was quick to get going, the few flashbacks you were given to their time together ten years previous gave the relationship depth, and the sexy-times between them were stellar.
”I want to taste all your peaks… Lick through all your valleys.”
My only other niggle and it is a small one is that we didn’t see a huge amount of involvement from the rest of the group as we have in the previous two books, which was a bit of a disappointment as the banter is always stellar, and the small amounts that there were in Now and Then lived up to expectations.
I hope this isn’t the end of the series, the author has created a great cast of characters, and I would like to see more from them in the future.
ARC generously provided via Netgalley, and it was my pleasure to provide the above honest review.
January 18, 2016
Ford and Brynn dated for a couple of months in college before Brynn ran away. She didn't want to hurt Ford and Ford had no idea why she left. Ten years later and Ford spots Brynn at a bar. All those same feelings come back but Brynn is still keeping secrets. This was a sweet, slightly angsty and steamy romance. I liked this book but it wasn't my favorite in this series. I adored Ford but Brynn wasn't my favorite- she was very frustrating at times. Overall, I enjoyed this book and I'm sad to see this series come to an end but I LOVED the epilogue!
**ARC provided in exchange for an honest review**
**ARC provided in exchange for an honest review**
December 22, 2015
ARC received for review
Great conclusion to this series. A nice romance with just enough angst and lots of hot bedroom scenes. Plus a epilogue a few years down the road with all the peeps and lots of babies.
Great conclusion to this series. A nice romance with just enough angst and lots of hot bedroom scenes. Plus a epilogue a few years down the road with all the peeps and lots of babies.
December 31, 2015
It pains me to do this, but... 2 stars
This is the third book in the Dare to Love series. I’ve enjoyed the previous books, centring around a close group of friends living together in Chicago. This one, however, not so much - too much relationship stupid, an annoying heroine, and a storyline that I didn’t feel as much as I wanted, and didn’t really hold my interest.
It’s the story of Ford, the owner of the apartment building where all of the characters live, and it started off promisingly. Ford is in a bar one night and runs into Brynn, the love of his life that he hasn’t seen for ten years. They met in college and were together for only three months, but it was an intense three months and they feel deeply in love before Brynn suddenly up and left and Ford never saw her again.
The sparks are instant, and it’s very clear that these two haven’t gotten over each other and it doesn’t take them long to act on that.
I really enjoyed watching Ford and Brynn reconnect, and I was all geared up for happy, swoony times ahead, but But Brynn has a secret, and it’s one that leads her to keep people at a distance. It’s the reason she left Ford years ago, and it’s the reason she refuses to get in too deep with him now. But she’s happy to indulge in some sexy time while waiting for the boom to drop. But very soon the threat is about to resurface again.
I had real issues with Brynn, and I just couldn’t warm to her. I could see that she loved Ford, and she is clearly terrified, but her reasons for keeping him at arm’s length were weak and I think the whole situation could have been handled SO much better! It takes her too long to open up to Ford about it all, and when she does finally share everything with him I thought it was all very underwhelming. Meanwhile, Ford is strong and awesome and fantastically swoony and promises to stand by her no matter what - you've gotta love him!.
It’s all very romantic, and exactly what you would want a man to say in that situation. But is their newly-rediscovered love strong enough to face whatever comes their way?
It sort of went even further downhill for me after that. There’s way too much back and forth which I found really frustrating, the resolution happens way too easily, and by the time it all ended I honestly didn’t care anymore. The story does end well though, and there’s an epilogue which gives us a glimpse into the future at all of the couples, and that was really sweet. But sadly I just didn’t get engaged in the story, and found it mostly annoying.
2 stars – it was just ok.
An Advanced Review Copy was generously provided by the publisher via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
This is the third book in the Dare to Love series. I’ve enjoyed the previous books, centring around a close group of friends living together in Chicago. This one, however, not so much - too much relationship stupid, an annoying heroine, and a storyline that I didn’t feel as much as I wanted, and didn’t really hold my interest.
It’s the story of Ford, the owner of the apartment building where all of the characters live, and it started off promisingly. Ford is in a bar one night and runs into Brynn, the love of his life that he hasn’t seen for ten years. They met in college and were together for only three months, but it was an intense three months and they feel deeply in love before Brynn suddenly up and left and Ford never saw her again.
The sparks are instant, and it’s very clear that these two haven’t gotten over each other and it doesn’t take them long to act on that.
“Brynn, don’t count on me stopping this … I’m not the nice guy I was ten years ago.”
I really enjoyed watching Ford and Brynn reconnect, and I was all geared up for happy, swoony times ahead, but But Brynn has a secret, and it’s one that leads her to keep people at a distance. It’s the reason she left Ford years ago, and it’s the reason she refuses to get in too deep with him now. But she’s happy to indulge in some sexy time while waiting for the boom to drop. But very soon the threat is about to resurface again.
I had real issues with Brynn, and I just couldn’t warm to her. I could see that she loved Ford, and she is clearly terrified, but her reasons for keeping him at arm’s length were weak and I think the whole situation could have been handled SO much better! It takes her too long to open up to Ford about it all, and when she does finally share everything with him I thought it was all very underwhelming. Meanwhile, Ford is strong and awesome and fantastically swoony and promises to stand by her no matter what - you've gotta love him!.
“I’m not letting you go… Do you understand that, Brynn? I lost you once; I won’t lose you again.”
“We’re in this together now, the way we should have been from the start. You’ve got to believe me, baby. I’m a fucking smart guy with a shit ton of resources at my disposal. I can keep you safe from this. Trust me and I’ll give us the future we should have had.”
It’s all very romantic, and exactly what you would want a man to say in that situation. But is their newly-rediscovered love strong enough to face whatever comes their way?
It sort of went even further downhill for me after that. There’s way too much back and forth which I found really frustrating, the resolution happens way too easily, and by the time it all ended I honestly didn’t care anymore. The story does end well though, and there’s an epilogue which gives us a glimpse into the future at all of the couples, and that was really sweet. But sadly I just didn’t get engaged in the story, and found it mostly annoying.
2 stars – it was just ok.
An Advanced Review Copy was generously provided by the publisher via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
January 4, 2016
I first read this story as a beta reader back in the summer and I was SO excited to be able to read the final product now! If you're a NetGalley member, I strongly urge you to request a copy because it is
phenomenal
!!
ARC provided by Mira Lyn Kelly and Random House Publishing Group - Loveswept via NetGalley
Brynn Ahearn and Ford Meyers have history. But Brynn ran away from Ford back in the day because she didn't want him hurt by her father's unsavory ways. And the threat of this happening was real. Because Brynn had lived it all her life.
But as fate would have it .... Brynn and Ford were destined to meet once again. But Brynn does her damnedest to try and stay away from Ford and fight the growing attraction between them. But again ....... destiny will have her way :) So Brynn stops fighting with high hopes that her father's shenanigans won't come bite her in the ass as they have in the past. And just as things seem like they might work out .... of course we have a problem LOL But, Ford is right there to save the day (as it should be)!
I'm gonna be honest and say that this book does differ from the first two in the series in a couple of ways.
1. The first two books in the series, Truth or Dare and Touch & Go are what I call inter-mixed. Meaning everyone in book one takes part in book 2. But not so much with Now and Then. Ford, as one of the dynamic 5, that start this Melrose Place like series, gets his book all to his own. Yes, there are sporadic pop-ins from some, but they don't really play a part in the story itself. Is that a good or bad thing? That's all up to you. I would have preferred for Ford's book to have the same dynamic as its predecessors, but it did not make the book any less fantastic because it was not.
2. The story behind Brynn and Ford lacked the gut-wrenching quality that the first two books held. It wasn't as heart-wrenching or even emotional. What it did have in spades is a loving undertone. And again, that differs from its predecessors because both book 1 and 2 will gut you to the core #TRUTH
Although this book does differ in presentation and style and tone, Mira Lyn Kelly still hits it out of the park. Why? Because she is that good! No stone was left un-turned in the story-line. Everything that needed to come to light, came to light. And everything that happened in the book made sense. There's no question Brynn and Ford had incredible chemistry and their sexy times really gave my girlie parts a run for their money! I saw this quote in an earlier review and thought it was the absolute perfect way to convey their sizzle:
ARC provided by Mira Lyn Kelly and Random House Publishing Group - Loveswept via NetGalley
Brynn Ahearn and Ford Meyers have history. But Brynn ran away from Ford back in the day because she didn't want him hurt by her father's unsavory ways. And the threat of this happening was real. Because Brynn had lived it all her life.
But as fate would have it .... Brynn and Ford were destined to meet once again. But Brynn does her damnedest to try and stay away from Ford and fight the growing attraction between them. But again ....... destiny will have her way :) So Brynn stops fighting with high hopes that her father's shenanigans won't come bite her in the ass as they have in the past. And just as things seem like they might work out .... of course we have a problem LOL But, Ford is right there to save the day (as it should be)!
I'm gonna be honest and say that this book does differ from the first two in the series in a couple of ways.
1. The first two books in the series, Truth or Dare and Touch & Go are what I call inter-mixed. Meaning everyone in book one takes part in book 2. But not so much with Now and Then. Ford, as one of the dynamic 5, that start this Melrose Place like series, gets his book all to his own. Yes, there are sporadic pop-ins from some, but they don't really play a part in the story itself. Is that a good or bad thing? That's all up to you. I would have preferred for Ford's book to have the same dynamic as its predecessors, but it did not make the book any less fantastic because it was not.
2. The story behind Brynn and Ford lacked the gut-wrenching quality that the first two books held. It wasn't as heart-wrenching or even emotional. What it did have in spades is a loving undertone. And again, that differs from its predecessors because both book 1 and 2 will gut you to the core #TRUTH
Although this book does differ in presentation and style and tone, Mira Lyn Kelly still hits it out of the park. Why? Because she is that good! No stone was left un-turned in the story-line. Everything that needed to come to light, came to light. And everything that happened in the book made sense. There's no question Brynn and Ford had incredible chemistry and their sexy times really gave my girlie parts a run for their money! I saw this quote in an earlier review and thought it was the absolute perfect way to convey their sizzle:
“Jesus, Brynn,” he growled against her lips. “You make my heart hurt, but I swear, it’s in the best fucking way.”
February 17, 2016
This review was originally posted on (un)Conventional Bookviews
Now and Then is a great second chance at love romances, and I had been looking forward to Ford's story since I read the first installment in this series. Brynn and Ford had such amazing chemistry, and I loved getting to know them better.
Ford and Brynn were dating in college, and Ford was sure they would get married and have children, even when their relationship was new. And they were great together, until they weren't. Together anymore, that is. Brynn broke up with Ford by e-mail and just didn't come back to college. When he called her, she told him she had found someone else. Fast forward a few years, and Ford the computer geek has several popular app games to his name, and he's living the good life. The only thing missing is a woman he can really let in, one he can love, trust, who is is friend and his lover, one he can just be himself with. He's at a local bar with his sister Ava when he notices a woman with a Ms. Pac-Man T-shirt, one woman he knows he wants to get to know. She turns out to be none other than Brynn.
The chemistry and the easy back-and forth of conversation is just as present now as it was in the past, and Ford can't but help feeling as if he has been waiting for Brynn during all these years. She feels the same way, but what made her leave Ford behind in the past is still creating shadows over her life today. For a while, it was as if fate didn't want these two together, when Ford brought Brynn home, and they were ready to get it on, he was called away for an emergency, his best friends having their baby. And after that, Brynn did her best to keep her distance from Ford, even if she really didn't want to.
I loved the fun banters and the combustible hotness between the two of them, but I got a little tired of the reasons Brynn had for not fully investing herself with him. She's in her late twenties and still let other people's actions dictate her own, and that didn't really sit well with me. She acted without thinking, and because she may have been rather helpless in the past, that is not the case anymore. So I had to applaud Ford for being so patient with her, because he just knew she was the one for him, and he was ready to wade through all kinds of shit to make it happen. And while I enjoyed Brynn, in some ways, I didn't really think she deserved a man like Ford. She wasn't honest with him for a long while, and she could have ended up hurting both him and herself really bad.
Now and Then is written in third person point of view, past tense, and most of what happens is from Ford's perspective, but some from Brynn's as well.. The flow is easy, and there are dialogues that are both fun and hot as well. If you enjoy contemporary romance with mature (older than NA) characters, this series is for you.
She needed to end this. Do the right thing for both of them. Her lips parted to speak and his teeth grazed the column of her neck. Just the barest scrape, the perfect pressure, and -
"Ford," she gasped.
He couldn't score even a glimpse of her face but she was a redhead, with the kind of thick, dark curls spilling halfway down her back that did it for him even more than the T-shirt and kicks combined, because yeah, when it came to hair, the gigners took him back to a place no one else could.
"But aside from the sports ones I'm a bigger fan of the old stuff than the new. Put Donkey Kong in front of me and I'll be there until next week.!"
Ford swallowed. Hard. Because, hello, girl he was going to marry.
Now and Then is a great second chance at love romances, and I had been looking forward to Ford's story since I read the first installment in this series. Brynn and Ford had such amazing chemistry, and I loved getting to know them better.
Ford and Brynn were dating in college, and Ford was sure they would get married and have children, even when their relationship was new. And they were great together, until they weren't. Together anymore, that is. Brynn broke up with Ford by e-mail and just didn't come back to college. When he called her, she told him she had found someone else. Fast forward a few years, and Ford the computer geek has several popular app games to his name, and he's living the good life. The only thing missing is a woman he can really let in, one he can love, trust, who is is friend and his lover, one he can just be himself with. He's at a local bar with his sister Ava when he notices a woman with a Ms. Pac-Man T-shirt, one woman he knows he wants to get to know. She turns out to be none other than Brynn.
The chemistry and the easy back-and forth of conversation is just as present now as it was in the past, and Ford can't but help feeling as if he has been waiting for Brynn during all these years. She feels the same way, but what made her leave Ford behind in the past is still creating shadows over her life today. For a while, it was as if fate didn't want these two together, when Ford brought Brynn home, and they were ready to get it on, he was called away for an emergency, his best friends having their baby. And after that, Brynn did her best to keep her distance from Ford, even if she really didn't want to.
I loved the fun banters and the combustible hotness between the two of them, but I got a little tired of the reasons Brynn had for not fully investing herself with him. She's in her late twenties and still let other people's actions dictate her own, and that didn't really sit well with me. She acted without thinking, and because she may have been rather helpless in the past, that is not the case anymore. So I had to applaud Ford for being so patient with her, because he just knew she was the one for him, and he was ready to wade through all kinds of shit to make it happen. And while I enjoyed Brynn, in some ways, I didn't really think she deserved a man like Ford. She wasn't honest with him for a long while, and she could have ended up hurting both him and herself really bad.
Now and Then is written in third person point of view, past tense, and most of what happens is from Ford's perspective, but some from Brynn's as well.. The flow is easy, and there are dialogues that are both fun and hot as well. If you enjoy contemporary romance with mature (older than NA) characters, this series is for you.
She needed to end this. Do the right thing for both of them. Her lips parted to speak and his teeth grazed the column of her neck. Just the barest scrape, the perfect pressure, and -
"Ford," she gasped.
He couldn't score even a glimpse of her face but she was a redhead, with the kind of thick, dark curls spilling halfway down her back that did it for him even more than the T-shirt and kicks combined, because yeah, when it came to hair, the gigners took him back to a place no one else could.
"But aside from the sports ones I'm a bigger fan of the old stuff than the new. Put Donkey Kong in front of me and I'll be there until next week.!"
Ford swallowed. Hard. Because, hello, girl he was going to marry.
January 10, 2016
Brynn and Ford are a second chance couple. Brynn was the one that got away. She has a complicated relationship with her father, who is constantly getting into trouble and who charms his way back into people's good graces easily. Only she is usually left to pay the consequences. She loves Ford and wants to protect him from the ugly things in her life. They reconnect. Spectacularly I might say. It's flipping sexy. Then she does what we tend to do when we want to protect those we love. She runs. Only Ford isn't letting her go without a fight. It's a really cute story. I enjoyed it :)
ARC received in exchange for an honest review.
ARC received in exchange for an honest review.
January 19, 2016
4 second chances aren't meant to be wasted stars. Brynn and Ford have serious history and when they meet ten years later, it's beyond clear that the spark is still there. Brynn left Ford to protect him but in doing so lied to him. Ford still loves Brynn and after spending time with her again, he's decided he won't let her get away so easily.
Ford is in your face, demanding, passionate, caring and sexy. He knows he has to corner Brynn into giving into what they both so desperately desire. When you are use to hard work and being successful it isn't too hard to apply that drive to other areas of your life. Ford is relentless in showing Brynn he cares about her, will do what it takes to be with her and that they are good together.
Brynn is self-sacrificing, sweet, sexy and hardworking. She got to where she is by pure determination and her own merits even with the looming destruction that now threatens her life once again. She can't seem to shake Ford this time no matter how hard she tries. In turn, she can't deny what she still feels for him, either.
There's struggle, reconciling and wicked sex in this novel. Ford doesn't let go until he gets what he wants. Brynn tries to put up a fight which is pointless since Ford's the only man she's ever truly loved. When push comes to shove, Ford will save Brynn but possibly walk out of her life after doing so.
Ford is in your face, demanding, passionate, caring and sexy. He knows he has to corner Brynn into giving into what they both so desperately desire. When you are use to hard work and being successful it isn't too hard to apply that drive to other areas of your life. Ford is relentless in showing Brynn he cares about her, will do what it takes to be with her and that they are good together.
Brynn is self-sacrificing, sweet, sexy and hardworking. She got to where she is by pure determination and her own merits even with the looming destruction that now threatens her life once again. She can't seem to shake Ford this time no matter how hard she tries. In turn, she can't deny what she still feels for him, either.
There's struggle, reconciling and wicked sex in this novel. Ford doesn't let go until he gets what he wants. Brynn tries to put up a fight which is pointless since Ford's the only man she's ever truly loved. When push comes to shove, Ford will save Brynn but possibly walk out of her life after doing so.
January 20, 2016
4 stars
Now and Then was a great way to end this very entertaining series.
I've loved Ford from the first book, I've been eagerly awaiting his story and imo the author Mira Lyn Kelly has left the best for last.
I really enjoyed Now and Then, both characters were likable and relatable. They had amazing chemistry and their connection was felt from the moment they reconnect.
This was a well written second chance love story that will touch your heart.
And that epilogue was just perfection, getting a glimpse of all the gang in the future left me with a heart full of love.
Each book in the Dare to Love series can be read as a standalone but I highly recommend them all, they've been a joy to read.
Thank you to Random House Publishing Group - Loveswept via NetGalley for the advance copy in exchange for my honest thoughts.
Now and Then was a great way to end this very entertaining series.
I've loved Ford from the first book, I've been eagerly awaiting his story and imo the author Mira Lyn Kelly has left the best for last.
I really enjoyed Now and Then, both characters were likable and relatable. They had amazing chemistry and their connection was felt from the moment they reconnect.
This was a well written second chance love story that will touch your heart.
And that epilogue was just perfection, getting a glimpse of all the gang in the future left me with a heart full of love.
Each book in the Dare to Love series can be read as a standalone but I highly recommend them all, they've been a joy to read.
Thank you to Random House Publishing Group - Loveswept via NetGalley for the advance copy in exchange for my honest thoughts.
January 24, 2016
I've got that adorable, mushy feeling inside now that I am finished with Now and Then, because damn, that epilogue was just…the best. And the rest of the book? Pretty awesome, too.
When Ford Meyers sees Brynn Ahearn for the first time since she broke his heart a decade earlier, and experiences her explosive kiss, he knows what he wants—his second chance to make sure the one that got away doesn't get away again.
But Brynn’s reasons for leaving the first time still exist, and she's determined not to let her problems taint Ford’s life. She loves him too much for that. Only, Ford’s not about to give up now. Not like he did then…and when he finds out what's holding her back, he's going to do whatever it takes to help her—and free up her heart.
Oh, Ford. He's the epitome of swoony romantic lead. Strong, sure and true—and forgiving of Brynn’s mistakes from their first fall into love. I adored that about him; that he reasoned that they were young, and that it was in the past. It was so wonderful to see a man not bogged down by the then, and to see him try to work with Brynn now to get what he wanted… HER. He might have been a nice guy, but he was a nice guy with edge—he used that to his advantage—and that just made his pursuit all the more dreamy.
Brynn was an interesting character, and I could totally empathize with her situation. I didn't hate the way she was written—as misguided as she may have been, her problems were big enough to make her decisions feel suitably justified—although at times I found myself frustrated with her choices. Because they were wrong. Umm, hello, FORD!! Her career as an NBA camerawoman was charming and a little different, and I enjoyed that she didn't feel overly cliché or over the top. She felt real, and that worked for me.
In fact, the entirety of this book worked for me. It was good. Like, warm milk and cookies good. Comforting, enjoyable, something you'd happily have more of. There were great moments of communication—and bad ones, which totally worked for Ford and Brynn. There was good flow, smart plot choices and plenty of steamy, sexy times. All in all, it was a fantastic, easy to enjoy read.
But the best, most fantastic thing of all was the sweet, endearing, happy ending. This book is the last in this series—I've read the second, not the first, so I can vouch that they can be read standalone—and as such, there were lasting moments with the previous characters, which made the finale all the more special. I smiled and chuckled through the whole thing, and it was the absolute highlight. Hence, that mushy feeling I have inside… ~ Beth, 4.5 stars
~~~
Now. Then.
Before. After.
Second chance romance.
Funny t-shirts and chucks. A gorgeous redheaded sports nut. That describes Brynn Ahearn.
Hot, hot, hot with a wicked gamer's mind. That’s who Ford Meyers is.
But Brynn's in love with Fred Mason...
And shock is what they both feel when their pasts come colliding in a bar in Wicker Park.
I’m a total sucker for second chance romance. There is nothing like the one who got away returning for more and the chance of a happily ever after. In this case, Brynn is packing some serious history and past regrets. But when her past comes calling AGAIN, how will she react?
Ford decided at first glance he isn’t letting Brynn get away again… no chance, no how. She’s his for the taking. They have great chemistry and fun. Plus, let’s not forget Ava, who almost steals the show a couple of times. Ford is a computer nerd at heart (at least in my mind), and this makes him analytical and smart when it comes to breaking down problems. This is quite helpful when Brynn has huge ones that she tries to run from.
I enjoyed Now and Then. I laughed, had some great feels and ultimately, just wanted more! A super fun and quick read!! ~ Heather, 4 stars
When Ford Meyers sees Brynn Ahearn for the first time since she broke his heart a decade earlier, and experiences her explosive kiss, he knows what he wants—his second chance to make sure the one that got away doesn't get away again.
But Brynn’s reasons for leaving the first time still exist, and she's determined not to let her problems taint Ford’s life. She loves him too much for that. Only, Ford’s not about to give up now. Not like he did then…and when he finds out what's holding her back, he's going to do whatever it takes to help her—and free up her heart.
Oh, Ford. He's the epitome of swoony romantic lead. Strong, sure and true—and forgiving of Brynn’s mistakes from their first fall into love. I adored that about him; that he reasoned that they were young, and that it was in the past. It was so wonderful to see a man not bogged down by the then, and to see him try to work with Brynn now to get what he wanted… HER. He might have been a nice guy, but he was a nice guy with edge—he used that to his advantage—and that just made his pursuit all the more dreamy.
Brynn was an interesting character, and I could totally empathize with her situation. I didn't hate the way she was written—as misguided as she may have been, her problems were big enough to make her decisions feel suitably justified—although at times I found myself frustrated with her choices. Because they were wrong. Umm, hello, FORD!! Her career as an NBA camerawoman was charming and a little different, and I enjoyed that she didn't feel overly cliché or over the top. She felt real, and that worked for me.
In fact, the entirety of this book worked for me. It was good. Like, warm milk and cookies good. Comforting, enjoyable, something you'd happily have more of. There were great moments of communication—and bad ones, which totally worked for Ford and Brynn. There was good flow, smart plot choices and plenty of steamy, sexy times. All in all, it was a fantastic, easy to enjoy read.
But the best, most fantastic thing of all was the sweet, endearing, happy ending. This book is the last in this series—I've read the second, not the first, so I can vouch that they can be read standalone—and as such, there were lasting moments with the previous characters, which made the finale all the more special. I smiled and chuckled through the whole thing, and it was the absolute highlight. Hence, that mushy feeling I have inside… ~ Beth, 4.5 stars
~~~
Now. Then.
Before. After.
Second chance romance.
Funny t-shirts and chucks. A gorgeous redheaded sports nut. That describes Brynn Ahearn.
Hot, hot, hot with a wicked gamer's mind. That’s who Ford Meyers is.
But Brynn's in love with Fred Mason...
And shock is what they both feel when their pasts come colliding in a bar in Wicker Park.
I’m a total sucker for second chance romance. There is nothing like the one who got away returning for more and the chance of a happily ever after. In this case, Brynn is packing some serious history and past regrets. But when her past comes calling AGAIN, how will she react?
Ford decided at first glance he isn’t letting Brynn get away again… no chance, no how. She’s his for the taking. They have great chemistry and fun. Plus, let’s not forget Ava, who almost steals the show a couple of times. Ford is a computer nerd at heart (at least in my mind), and this makes him analytical and smart when it comes to breaking down problems. This is quite helpful when Brynn has huge ones that she tries to run from.
I enjoyed Now and Then. I laughed, had some great feels and ultimately, just wanted more! A super fun and quick read!! ~ Heather, 4 stars
February 29, 2016
If you follow my blog or goodreads, then you'll know that I usually thoroughly enjoy Mira Lyn Kelly's Dare to Love series and this book was no exception. It was a little heavy on the drama, needlessly, but it kind of needed to be so the characters could stay true to who they are, rather than being pale imitations of themselves, so all I can say is that if you're in the mood for a nice, easy romantic read, you should pick this book up, especially if you're like me and like a little angst thrown into your romance.
March 3, 2016
Cute, I liked it! Full review to come
April 2, 2016
There's nothing I like better than a second chance romance, especially when it involves high school or college sweethearts that break up (for reasons!) and then meet again years later, never having gotten over that first love. That's the case here when Brynn and Ford meet once again. They dated, and were serious about each other until Brynn's family relationship turmoil made her decide that Ford was better off without her and her problems (which she'd never shared with him) and broke things off. But now, she's living around the corner from Ford, and when they end up at the same bar, the smile she gives him when they first make eye contact again after so long makes it clear that she still has feelings for him. And while Ford was heartbroken then, he's all grown up now (and a sexy, handsome man too!) - but still carries a piece of his heart for her. Now that they have a second chance, can they let the past stay buried or will it bring heartbreak again?
I loved this story! As a secondary character in the previous stories, Ford had already caught my attention and I was delighted that this story was going to give him his happy ever after - but not without some snags. He and Brynn definitely share some chemistry, and it takes a while but eventually she gives him the real reason for why she broke things off with him so long ago. But even so, it doesn't mean that she now feels free to pursue a relationship, and so she hopes he'll settle for a short fling where they can forget about the past and the future and spend some quality (aka sexy!) times together. I really liked how Ford was determined right from the start that he wasn't going to let Brynn go this time, and since I'm a fan of the 'hero in pursuit' type story, this worked for me. Brynn's mixed signals were confusing for him, though understandable for the reader once we find out her reasons for them. Dealing with her family, and the issues from her past that worm their way into the present, it's no wonder she's stayed clear of relationships. I thought the plot played out well, and the author does a great job of giving you just enough emotional angst to have that ' I can't stop reading until I get to the end!' feeling. Sexy, emotional and sweet, this romance has it all. 4.5 stars.
Note: a copy of this story was provided by the publisher via NetGalley for review.
I loved this story! As a secondary character in the previous stories, Ford had already caught my attention and I was delighted that this story was going to give him his happy ever after - but not without some snags. He and Brynn definitely share some chemistry, and it takes a while but eventually she gives him the real reason for why she broke things off with him so long ago. But even so, it doesn't mean that she now feels free to pursue a relationship, and so she hopes he'll settle for a short fling where they can forget about the past and the future and spend some quality (aka sexy!) times together. I really liked how Ford was determined right from the start that he wasn't going to let Brynn go this time, and since I'm a fan of the 'hero in pursuit' type story, this worked for me. Brynn's mixed signals were confusing for him, though understandable for the reader once we find out her reasons for them. Dealing with her family, and the issues from her past that worm their way into the present, it's no wonder she's stayed clear of relationships. I thought the plot played out well, and the author does a great job of giving you just enough emotional angst to have that ' I can't stop reading until I get to the end!' feeling. Sexy, emotional and sweet, this romance has it all. 4.5 stars.
Note: a copy of this story was provided by the publisher via NetGalley for review.
January 21, 2016
Original review can be found at http://kristineandterri.blogspot.ca/2...
** I received an advanced readers copy from Loveswept via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. Thank you!
Now and Then is the third instalment in the Dare to Love Series but can be read as a stand alone. I previously read Touch and Go, the second instalment and really enjoyed it so I was anxious to dig into this one.
Brynn and Ford met in college and fell for each other instantly. They shared a connection that was way beyond their nineteen years and for a short time even dreamt of a future together. Things changed when Brynn went home for a visit and discovered that her no good scheming father had found a way to her college funds and would stop at nothing to get what he wanted. She knew that it would only be a matter of time before he dug his claws into Ford and his family if he found out that she cared about him. To save him from the inevitable troubles that her father would cause she did the unthinkable and lied to him. She told him that there was someone else and that she was changing schools.
Flash forward ten years and this is where the story begins when they accidentally bump into each other at a pub. The emotional and physical connection is just as strong as ever but Brynn's father is still as big a problem as ever.
So what did I think?
I found this book as emotional and engaging as the last one and can honestly say that I love this series. The chemistry between Brynn and Ford was dripping off the pages and I enjoyed every sweet, painful, sexy and complicated part of it. Ford was super sexy in every way possible. Not only did he deliver in the bedroom but he was an all around good and decent guy that (in my imagination) was easy on the eyes!
Now and Then gave me everything that I like in a great second chance romance and left the hopeless romantic in me completely satisfied. I truly hope that there will be more instalments in this series because I am not ready to give it up yet.
** I received an advanced readers copy from Loveswept via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. Thank you!
Now and Then is the third instalment in the Dare to Love Series but can be read as a stand alone. I previously read Touch and Go, the second instalment and really enjoyed it so I was anxious to dig into this one.
Brynn and Ford met in college and fell for each other instantly. They shared a connection that was way beyond their nineteen years and for a short time even dreamt of a future together. Things changed when Brynn went home for a visit and discovered that her no good scheming father had found a way to her college funds and would stop at nothing to get what he wanted. She knew that it would only be a matter of time before he dug his claws into Ford and his family if he found out that she cared about him. To save him from the inevitable troubles that her father would cause she did the unthinkable and lied to him. She told him that there was someone else and that she was changing schools.
Flash forward ten years and this is where the story begins when they accidentally bump into each other at a pub. The emotional and physical connection is just as strong as ever but Brynn's father is still as big a problem as ever.
So what did I think?
I found this book as emotional and engaging as the last one and can honestly say that I love this series. The chemistry between Brynn and Ford was dripping off the pages and I enjoyed every sweet, painful, sexy and complicated part of it. Ford was super sexy in every way possible. Not only did he deliver in the bedroom but he was an all around good and decent guy that (in my imagination) was easy on the eyes!
Now and Then gave me everything that I like in a great second chance romance and left the hopeless romantic in me completely satisfied. I truly hope that there will be more instalments in this series because I am not ready to give it up yet.
February 11, 2016
4.5 Stars
I love a good second chance romance and I love them even better when they are written this well. Sometimes it can take chapters before a couple rekindle their romance but the author wrote this so that the couple reconnected right in the beginning and then weaved bits of their past within the present to round out the story in the best of ways.
There was a lot of ups and downs in Brynn and Ford's journey to their second chance . Most of the downs coming from Brynn's fears and doubts about reconnecting with Ford and bringing him into her troubled life but, as frustrated as I was with Brynn, I understood her apprehensions.
I loved Ford and the way he tried to navigate through Brynn's feelings in pursuit of giving them their best chance at forever. I was especially proud of him, while simultaneously heartbroken, when he finally stood up for himself and really made Brynn face the consequences of her wishy-washy ways.
I really enjoyed this book and the way the author told Brynn and Ford's story. I'm sad to see this series come to an end but I love the way it was wrapped up and I can't wait to see what Mira Lyn Kelly has coming next.
*I received an ARC from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review
Read more of my reviews at www.fictionfangirls.com
I love a good second chance romance and I love them even better when they are written this well. Sometimes it can take chapters before a couple rekindle their romance but the author wrote this so that the couple reconnected right in the beginning and then weaved bits of their past within the present to round out the story in the best of ways.
There was a lot of ups and downs in Brynn and Ford's journey to their second chance . Most of the downs coming from Brynn's fears and doubts about reconnecting with Ford and bringing him into her troubled life but, as frustrated as I was with Brynn, I understood her apprehensions.
I loved Ford and the way he tried to navigate through Brynn's feelings in pursuit of giving them their best chance at forever. I was especially proud of him, while simultaneously heartbroken, when he finally stood up for himself and really made Brynn face the consequences of her wishy-washy ways.
I really enjoyed this book and the way the author told Brynn and Ford's story. I'm sad to see this series come to an end but I love the way it was wrapped up and I can't wait to see what Mira Lyn Kelly has coming next.
*I received an ARC from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review
Read more of my reviews at www.fictionfangirls.com
January 24, 2016
2.5 - I enjoyed the dynamic between Brynn and Ford. Their reconnecting was well-written, hot and the chemistry was believable.
The book failed to launch for me, because the story included the popular trope where either the hero or heroine is desperate to leave the other in order to protect them. The whole 'it's for your own good' is tiresome and I hate it.
Fortunately, the story was saved by reconnecting with characters from the earlier books and some funny dialogue. I didn't love this one - it could have been more, were it not for Brynn's martyrdom.
The book failed to launch for me, because the story included the popular trope where either the hero or heroine is desperate to leave the other in order to protect them. The whole 'it's for your own good' is tiresome and I hate it.
Fortunately, the story was saved by reconnecting with characters from the earlier books and some funny dialogue. I didn't love this one - it could have been more, were it not for Brynn's martyrdom.
April 29, 2016
I liked Truth or Dare (Dare to Love #1) and LOVED Touch & Go (Dare to Love #2). Now and Then (Dare to Love #3) was just okay. I really liked hearing about how Brynn and Ford met and the whirlwind romance that followed, but their actual relationship after wasn't as exciting. I also thought I would enjoy the con-man father storyline but it was a little boring to be honest.
January 22, 2016
Full review to come soon.
May 23, 2023
Better than Books 1 and 2.
May 6, 2016
In the third book of the Dare to Love series, Ford Meyers (the brother of the heroine in book 2, Touch & Go) has already met the woman of his dreams...ten years ago. Brynn Ahearne was in college with Ford. They clicked immediately and fell hard and fast. And just as quickly, things ended and Ford was heartbroken. Now, when he sees Brynn at the Pint Pub, he will not repeat the mistakes of the past. Brynn, however? Not so much. Eventually though, you guessed it, romance happens.
The Good : When I saw that Ford’s book was up for review, I was wondering who would be the woman to capture his heart. When I realized that it’s a second chance romance, I was all in. The Chemistry was there and the sex scenes have enough heat to crank things up a bit. There’s a single-mindedness to his pursuit and his protectiveness of Brynn certainly hooks me in. I loved how Ms. Kelly changed up the standard response to the resolution of the major conflict and gave the story a bit of the bite that it really needed.
The Bad : My main issues with this story are two-fold. I felt that Brynn’s big martyr complex didn’t get me on her side, so much as really annoy me. Brynn’s family issues were big, but Brynn having these monologues obsessing about her father, didn’t have the same feel as if I had the chance to experience his influence on her throughout the story. I didn’t even feel the real threat until more than halfway through. Ultimately, I sympathized with her, but I never quite connected with her. She just tips over the line from self-sacrificing to just irritating for me. Also, Ford and Brynn felt a bit too isolated for my tastes. That feeling of a romance in a vacuum, made this sweet romance lack a bit of depth. For example...
Everything in Between : Part of what I enjoyed about the earlier books was the camaraderie and the relationships between all the characters. The banter was fun and I loved getting to know Tyler and Maggie, and Sam and Ava, through their interactions with everyone, not just each other. Brynn felt as though she’s a stranger to them all, and I missed the chance of seeing her talk to Ava and Maggie, or perhaps seeing Sam (Ford’s best friend) and Tyler giving him advice. I will say that the epilogue was a sweet little cherry on top of this series and gave me a hint of the HEAs for each couple. It was the highlight of the story for me.
In the end, I did enjoyed part of this. It finished strong, even if it felt as if it were missing a little something to up the ante with the story and raise it to another level for me. Still, it was a sweet contemporary read and the epilogue was a nice gift for fans of the series. If you love mildly angsty contemporaries, you may enjoy this - I’d definitely recommend the two earlier books.
**ARC provided by publisher via netgalley for review**
For more reviews, visit
The Good : When I saw that Ford’s book was up for review, I was wondering who would be the woman to capture his heart. When I realized that it’s a second chance romance, I was all in. The Chemistry was there and the sex scenes have enough heat to crank things up a bit. There’s a single-mindedness to his pursuit and his protectiveness of Brynn certainly hooks me in. I loved how Ms. Kelly changed up the standard response to the resolution of the major conflict and gave the story a bit of the bite that it really needed.
The Bad : My main issues with this story are two-fold. I felt that Brynn’s big martyr complex didn’t get me on her side, so much as really annoy me. Brynn’s family issues were big, but Brynn having these monologues obsessing about her father, didn’t have the same feel as if I had the chance to experience his influence on her throughout the story. I didn’t even feel the real threat until more than halfway through. Ultimately, I sympathized with her, but I never quite connected with her. She just tips over the line from self-sacrificing to just irritating for me. Also, Ford and Brynn felt a bit too isolated for my tastes. That feeling of a romance in a vacuum, made this sweet romance lack a bit of depth. For example...
Everything in Between : Part of what I enjoyed about the earlier books was the camaraderie and the relationships between all the characters. The banter was fun and I loved getting to know Tyler and Maggie, and Sam and Ava, through their interactions with everyone, not just each other. Brynn felt as though she’s a stranger to them all, and I missed the chance of seeing her talk to Ava and Maggie, or perhaps seeing Sam (Ford’s best friend) and Tyler giving him advice. I will say that the epilogue was a sweet little cherry on top of this series and gave me a hint of the HEAs for each couple. It was the highlight of the story for me.
In the end, I did enjoyed part of this. It finished strong, even if it felt as if it were missing a little something to up the ante with the story and raise it to another level for me. Still, it was a sweet contemporary read and the epilogue was a nice gift for fans of the series. If you love mildly angsty contemporaries, you may enjoy this - I’d definitely recommend the two earlier books.
**ARC provided by publisher via netgalley for review**
For more reviews, visit
March 7, 2016
Link: http://wp.me/p5GNrB-3WQ
That was definitely a sweet, really good book. Full of wonderful and powerful emotions that can’t leave you alone and indifferent towards them. They soak you with their intensity and amazing-ness to your bones.
Now and Then, the third book in the Dare to Love series - it can be read as a standalone -, tells the story of Brynn and Ford. A story that goes back and forth between NOW and the PAST, or like the title says THEN. It’s a journey down the memories road of these two and what they never forgot. But let’s get a bit more specific.
Brynn and Ford has known each other since high school and has been a couple for some months back then. But, due an unfortunate and unpredictable development, they were “forced” to break up. Badly. Now, a decade after that incident, Ford and Brynn meet again in a bar. Trying both to keep hold of their resurfaced feelings for each other, they fill one another on their lives these past 10 years. But, as past lovers whose Love never stopped existing and breathing, soon they get in a FWB (Friends-With-Benefits) kind-of area. Although, Future and Fate haven’t said their last word and what continues is something that neither could predict.
This girl had gotten away from him too fast once before, and he wasn't about to let it happen again.
A story that grabs you. literally, from the heart and makes its victim. The Love that flows between Ford and Brynn for 10 years now, has an incredible power and depth that captivates you and makes you unwilling to Put. The. Book. Down. I more than loved it and it’s something that I will remember and cherish for a long time. The way that Mira Lynn Kelly unfolds, not only their NOW, but also their THEN, is truly wonderful. She may be a first-read author for me, but Now and Then was all it took to make me want to read all her other works.
February 17, 2016
Really sweet, cute romance! I love second chance at romance stories, so I loved that aspect, and I liked the way it was done in this book, and I enjoyed Mira Lyn Kelly's writing. Ford is awesome! I love that he is a game designer and that he is a bit geeky, so cute! And I love how open Ford is with his emotions. I'm glad there is dual POV's in this book because I enjoy reading from the guy's perspective, and it really gave more depth to this story, and the little flashbacks were nice.
Ford and Brynn had a romance in college, but Brynn broke up with Ford because her dad is involved with some bad, dangerous people, and she didn't want Ford to be caught up in the bad stuff, so Brynn makes the decision to not tell Ford anything, and leave him for his own good. I don't really like when people try to do what they think is best without telling the other party anything, so I was a bit weary of Brynn, and found some of her actions lame. So, this book is 10 years later (if I remember correctly), and Ford and Brynn run into each other in a bar, and both Ford and Brynn haven't forgotten about each other, and their deep feelings for each other, and their strong connection is apparent when they meet again. Ford knows Brynn is the one for him, so he is going to do what he needs to do to break down Brynn's walls and make her realize what they have is worth fighting for.
I liked that this book is a complete story; no cliffhangers! I really enjoyed the characters, and I loved how Ford and Brynn's relationship evolved. I haven't read the other books in the series, and although there were some of the characters from the previous books in this book, I don't feel like I needed to read the other books to enjoy this book; there are some spoilers for the previous books thought, but I don't feel like it is too big of a deal. After reading this book I definitely want to read the previous books, and other books by Mira Lyn Kelly!
Ford and Brynn had a romance in college, but Brynn broke up with Ford because her dad is involved with some bad, dangerous people, and she didn't want Ford to be caught up in the bad stuff, so Brynn makes the decision to not tell Ford anything, and leave him for his own good. I don't really like when people try to do what they think is best without telling the other party anything, so I was a bit weary of Brynn, and found some of her actions lame. So, this book is 10 years later (if I remember correctly), and Ford and Brynn run into each other in a bar, and both Ford and Brynn haven't forgotten about each other, and their deep feelings for each other, and their strong connection is apparent when they meet again. Ford knows Brynn is the one for him, so he is going to do what he needs to do to break down Brynn's walls and make her realize what they have is worth fighting for.
I liked that this book is a complete story; no cliffhangers! I really enjoyed the characters, and I loved how Ford and Brynn's relationship evolved. I haven't read the other books in the series, and although there were some of the characters from the previous books in this book, I don't feel like I needed to read the other books to enjoy this book; there are some spoilers for the previous books thought, but I don't feel like it is too big of a deal. After reading this book I definitely want to read the previous books, and other books by Mira Lyn Kelly!
January 12, 2016
I fell in love with Mira Lyn Kelly's words in Touch and Go and am happy to report that I'm still in deep, having just finished Now and Then.
This second-chance love story between Ford (Ava's brother from T and G) and Brynn was perfect. From the moment they see each other again, totally by accident, you just know these two have a tale to tell. We get thoughts from each of them in every chapter and there is no mistaken that for both Ford and Brynn, they are truly the one that got away.
The heartache at having been separated for the last 10 years is still there as is the hurt that Brynn left Ford so suddenly while still in college. Virtually disappearing without a trace. As they try to figure out a way to be in each other's lives, secrets still bind Brynn. And you're never really sure it can all work out.
I love that the author successfully combines bits of the past with the present. The chemistry is so evident between Ford and Brynn, you can feel it as strongly as they do. Each character is strong and full of pride. The secrets each hold so closely to the vest, could either make or break them and I had to hope real hard that each could see past the reasons for doing so.
The characters are well-written and full of emotion. There are some very sexy scenes that tore at my heart, since you never really knew if it would be enough to keep them together. I was rooting for them at every turn and kept my fingers crossed for the ending I wanted.
The author writes from the heart and it shows. You don't and can't put her books down once you start since you are completely swept away by every single word. I was happy to see the entire crew from this series present and accounted for and they provided the perfect addition to this book.
Worthy of your time. I'm thrilled to have discovered Mira Lyn Kelly and look forward to what she has in store for us next.
A solid 5 stars!
This second-chance love story between Ford (Ava's brother from T and G) and Brynn was perfect. From the moment they see each other again, totally by accident, you just know these two have a tale to tell. We get thoughts from each of them in every chapter and there is no mistaken that for both Ford and Brynn, they are truly the one that got away.
The heartache at having been separated for the last 10 years is still there as is the hurt that Brynn left Ford so suddenly while still in college. Virtually disappearing without a trace. As they try to figure out a way to be in each other's lives, secrets still bind Brynn. And you're never really sure it can all work out.
I love that the author successfully combines bits of the past with the present. The chemistry is so evident between Ford and Brynn, you can feel it as strongly as they do. Each character is strong and full of pride. The secrets each hold so closely to the vest, could either make or break them and I had to hope real hard that each could see past the reasons for doing so.
The characters are well-written and full of emotion. There are some very sexy scenes that tore at my heart, since you never really knew if it would be enough to keep them together. I was rooting for them at every turn and kept my fingers crossed for the ending I wanted.
The author writes from the heart and it shows. You don't and can't put her books down once you start since you are completely swept away by every single word. I was happy to see the entire crew from this series present and accounted for and they provided the perfect addition to this book.
Worthy of your time. I'm thrilled to have discovered Mira Lyn Kelly and look forward to what she has in store for us next.
A solid 5 stars!
January 31, 2016
*I received a copy of Now and Then from Netgalley in exchange for an honest review*
Now, if you are looking for a book to satisfy your romantic needs, then congratulations, you have found the one.
There's nothing sweeter than rekindling an old romance, the sense of familiarity, the ferocity you used to have, the passion you used to share, it all but brings back memories that are bittersweet. For Ford and Brynn, a chanced encounter may just be that second chance.
I really liked how the story started, I was immediately pulled by the intensity of Ford and Brynn's relationship and I couldn't help but ached for the lost years. What started off as a romance novel quickly delve deeper into family issues of having to deal with a selfish father that risked everything, even his family, just for the sake of his addiction. Due to that, Brynn is afraid to reel anyone into her life, for fear that they will be caught up in the tangle of mess that she called her life. I really liked Brynn, I thought she was such a respectable character that is self-sacrificing and noble, plus she has red hair, which only further enhance her tough exterior. Her relationship with Ford was explosive and I had giddiness in my stomach just by watching how their story unfold, in a good way.
However, I felt that the relationship between Brynn and her father was not properly developed to allow me to nurture sympathy towards Brynn and her family. I understood the fear of being hunted down, but I did not feel it. In my opinion, the story would have a more profound effect if the aftermath of Brynn's father crimes were elaborately described, it will then fully brings out the hero/heroine nature of the characters.
Now, if you are looking for a book to satisfy your romantic needs, then congratulations, you have found the one.
There's nothing sweeter than rekindling an old romance, the sense of familiarity, the ferocity you used to have, the passion you used to share, it all but brings back memories that are bittersweet. For Ford and Brynn, a chanced encounter may just be that second chance.
I really liked how the story started, I was immediately pulled by the intensity of Ford and Brynn's relationship and I couldn't help but ached for the lost years. What started off as a romance novel quickly delve deeper into family issues of having to deal with a selfish father that risked everything, even his family, just for the sake of his addiction. Due to that, Brynn is afraid to reel anyone into her life, for fear that they will be caught up in the tangle of mess that she called her life. I really liked Brynn, I thought she was such a respectable character that is self-sacrificing and noble, plus she has red hair, which only further enhance her tough exterior. Her relationship with Ford was explosive and I had giddiness in my stomach just by watching how their story unfold, in a good way.
However, I felt that the relationship between Brynn and her father was not properly developed to allow me to nurture sympathy towards Brynn and her family. I understood the fear of being hunted down, but I did not feel it. In my opinion, the story would have a more profound effect if the aftermath of Brynn's father crimes were elaborately described, it will then fully brings out the hero/heroine nature of the characters.
February 23, 2016
~~I received a free copy of this book to read and review for Wicked Reads ~~
This is the third book in the series - and Ford definitely deserves an HEA, having watched the rest of the gang succeed in the earlier books in the series. He even had to 'kiss as a fake date' in book 1, so it is time. However, he has been hung up on the one that got away for ten years ... until she reappears and this time he will fight for what he loves. I do recommend that you read them all, as they are fun, and link together, but this is a good story in its own right too.
Ford is without a doubt fabulous! He makes some mistakes, but then faced with a woman who will not be honest with him, they are forgivable. Brynn was a more difficult character to like - and given her past, it wasn't difficult to see why. I think Ms Kelly wrote Brynn's awkwardness beautifully. And as things unravel, and develop, we get to see what she could be like, if only she believed she had a chance. As the relationship breaks the boundary of sex only - not that there were many boundaries left on that front ... - we see how protective they both are, and how once again communication would reduce drama!
There are also some fun bits, especially when we get to see the rest of gang and how they are getting on, with even a new baby to coo over. There were a few points when I did actually think that this wasn't going to be the HEA I had grown to rely on, but thankfully I was not disappointed.
This is the third book in the series - and Ford definitely deserves an HEA, having watched the rest of the gang succeed in the earlier books in the series. He even had to 'kiss as a fake date' in book 1, so it is time. However, he has been hung up on the one that got away for ten years ... until she reappears and this time he will fight for what he loves. I do recommend that you read them all, as they are fun, and link together, but this is a good story in its own right too.
Ford is without a doubt fabulous! He makes some mistakes, but then faced with a woman who will not be honest with him, they are forgivable. Brynn was a more difficult character to like - and given her past, it wasn't difficult to see why. I think Ms Kelly wrote Brynn's awkwardness beautifully. And as things unravel, and develop, we get to see what she could be like, if only she believed she had a chance. As the relationship breaks the boundary of sex only - not that there were many boundaries left on that front ... - we see how protective they both are, and how once again communication would reduce drama!
There are also some fun bits, especially when we get to see the rest of gang and how they are getting on, with even a new baby to coo over. There were a few points when I did actually think that this wasn't going to be the HEA I had grown to rely on, but thankfully I was not disappointed.
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