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Who We Were
“I guess that’s the thing about high school reunions, though. They make you snap a little.”
In the ten years since high school graduation, Maylee’s career, living arrangements, family, and especially her love life are at a standstill. When her twin brother, Mitch, falls for her high school enemy at their ten-year reunion, Maylee’s life is catapulted into chaos.
Maylee’s hatred for the blonde-haired Josephine isn’t the only thing she discovers at her reunion. Benson Drake, the introvert from high school, has matured into a sexy intellect. Now a writer and bartender, Benson’s grown into a man with a perfect balance of quirky wit and sex appeal. After a wardrobe malfunction, a spy mission gone wrong, and a dangerous cup of coffee, Maylee and Benson explore something they never even thought about during senior year. Along the way, they find out that reconnecting with the past can change you… or maybe just help you find your true self.
In the ten years since high school graduation, Maylee’s career, living arrangements, family, and especially her love life are at a standstill. When her twin brother, Mitch, falls for her high school enemy at their ten-year reunion, Maylee’s life is catapulted into chaos.
Maylee’s hatred for the blonde-haired Josephine isn’t the only thing she discovers at her reunion. Benson Drake, the introvert from high school, has matured into a sexy intellect. Now a writer and bartender, Benson’s grown into a man with a perfect balance of quirky wit and sex appeal. After a wardrobe malfunction, a spy mission gone wrong, and a dangerous cup of coffee, Maylee and Benson explore something they never even thought about during senior year. Along the way, they find out that reconnecting with the past can change you… or maybe just help you find your true self.
333 pages, Kindle Edition
First published February 25, 2017
12 people are currently reading
78 people want to read
About the author
Lindsay Detwiler
31 books369 followersLove celebrating genuine, sweet love stories with a touch of spice? Join Lindsay's VIP Fan Club here and get a Free copy of Without You: https://dl.bookfunnel.com/p808sy2hmn
Lindsay Detwiler is a romance author and a former high school English teacher. She is also the USA Today Bestselling author of The Widow Next Door with HarperCollins UK.
Lindsay's goal with her writing is to show the power of love and the beauty of life while also instilling a true sense of realism in her work. With her novels coming from a place of honesty, she wants her fiction to resonate with readers as candid, poetic, and powerful.
Inked Hearts, released in 2017 with Hot Tree Publishing, was named a Romance Times Top Pick. Additionally, Remember When, released in April of 2017, was named a Route One Reads Romance Pick by the Pennsylvania Center for the Book. She is also a USA Today Bestselling author with HarperCollins UK under the penname L.A.Detwiler.
Lindsay currently lives in her hometown of Hollidaysburg, Pennsylvania, with her husband, Chad (her junior high sweetheart); their six rescued cats; and their Great Dane, Edmund.
In addition to being a huge bookworm, Lindsay's also a fan of cruelty-free makeup, coffee, chocolate, Outlander, and shopping.
Be sure to connect with Lindsay: Instagram: @lindsayanndetwiler
Facebook:http://www.facebook.com/lindsayanndet...
Blog: www.lindsaydetwiler.com
TikTok: @ladetwiler
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 31 reviews
January 14, 2017
High school reunions, a love/hate event where you cannot help but compare everyone to both yourself and who they were as a teen! If you were the in “the clique” it is a time to re-take that top dog position, even if just for a little while. If you were the outcast, the nerd, the one that others tormented, well, going can have several benefits, or added humiliations, because often people don’t change or take the opportunity to laugh at your worst moments that didn’t mean anything to them.
Maylee was the tormented nerd. The in girl that publicly humiliated her at every chance was Josephine, Ms. Perfect, Ms. Popular, Ms. Phony and Ms. Utterly Cruel. The last thing Maylee expected was that her popular, handsome, successful twin brother would be drawn to her tormentor like a moth to a flame and be told to grow up, everything was in the past, people change, blah, blah blah. After one more completely humiliating moment, Maylee finds herself rescued from the reunion by the quiet nerd boy who has grown into an Adonis with quiet compassion. All good, right? Not.Even. Close.
Lindsay Detwiler has nailed the reunion experience with humor, horrors and her words will resonate with anyone who lived through high school, as the tormentor, the one who did nothing or the tormented. WHO WE WERE is a brilliant read and you will find characters you love, characters you will never love and a tale of growing up and letting go of the past in order to find joy in the future.
It is Maylee’s journey to accepting she cannot change the past and Josephine’s journey to honesty and owning her horrific behavior. It is also a journey of loss, anger and misplaced revenge, of discovering that parents are human, family is human and you need to stand up and roll with the punches.
I laughed, I fumed, I was a frustrated wreck. In the end, I was captivated by Lindsay Detwiler’s latest reading gem! I related to Maylee’s frustration and pain, being a misfit in school. I was appalled at the lack of support her brother gave her at this time, but I also wanted to thrash Maylee for not spewing out everything that happened, trying to save someone’s feelings is admirable but enabling a bully, no way. Benton, now here is a man that is truly a friend to Maylee. He went with the flow, spoke up when needed and saw the real Maylee inside.
Highly recommended for high tension, diverse characters, hilarious moments and some shocking revelations. Definitely a button pusher for me!
I received an ARC edition from Lindsay Detwiler in exchange for my honest review.
Publisher: Hot Tree Publishing (February 25, 2017)
Publication Date: February 25, 2017
Genre: Romantic Comedy
Print Length: 254 pages
Available from: Amazon | Barnes & Noble
For Reviews & More: http://tometender.blogspot.com
Maylee was the tormented nerd. The in girl that publicly humiliated her at every chance was Josephine, Ms. Perfect, Ms. Popular, Ms. Phony and Ms. Utterly Cruel. The last thing Maylee expected was that her popular, handsome, successful twin brother would be drawn to her tormentor like a moth to a flame and be told to grow up, everything was in the past, people change, blah, blah blah. After one more completely humiliating moment, Maylee finds herself rescued from the reunion by the quiet nerd boy who has grown into an Adonis with quiet compassion. All good, right? Not.Even. Close.
Lindsay Detwiler has nailed the reunion experience with humor, horrors and her words will resonate with anyone who lived through high school, as the tormentor, the one who did nothing or the tormented. WHO WE WERE is a brilliant read and you will find characters you love, characters you will never love and a tale of growing up and letting go of the past in order to find joy in the future.
It is Maylee’s journey to accepting she cannot change the past and Josephine’s journey to honesty and owning her horrific behavior. It is also a journey of loss, anger and misplaced revenge, of discovering that parents are human, family is human and you need to stand up and roll with the punches.
I laughed, I fumed, I was a frustrated wreck. In the end, I was captivated by Lindsay Detwiler’s latest reading gem! I related to Maylee’s frustration and pain, being a misfit in school. I was appalled at the lack of support her brother gave her at this time, but I also wanted to thrash Maylee for not spewing out everything that happened, trying to save someone’s feelings is admirable but enabling a bully, no way. Benton, now here is a man that is truly a friend to Maylee. He went with the flow, spoke up when needed and saw the real Maylee inside.
Highly recommended for high tension, diverse characters, hilarious moments and some shocking revelations. Definitely a button pusher for me!
I received an ARC edition from Lindsay Detwiler in exchange for my honest review.
Publisher: Hot Tree Publishing (February 25, 2017)
Publication Date: February 25, 2017
Genre: Romantic Comedy
Print Length: 254 pages
Available from: Amazon | Barnes & Noble
For Reviews & More: http://tometender.blogspot.com
February 27, 2017
I've read this novel in one sitting because it was such a nice and cute story with a lot of laughing out loud moments and some emotional ones.
Maylee,our heroine,didn't have had the best High School experience so when she decided to go to her 10 years graduation reunion she is out for revenge...but fate has other plans for her and nothing goes as she expected.
I've loved Maylee because she is witty and nerd and I cheered for her throughout the whole book but my favorite character is Benson a quiet,charming and lovely writer and bartender.
It's always a pleasure to read Lindsay Detwiler works,her writing is always so good it catch your attention since the first page.
Copy kindly provided by the Publisher/Author.
February 24, 2017
Lindsay Detwilers' latest book is a reminder of all the things you may have loved and hated from those formative years in high school. It speaks to learning how to let go and how to forgive past transgressions.
Who We Were is a highly enjoyable read on many fronts; it's funny and yet it really tugs at the heartstrings. Maylee has an old score to settle, but fate has other things in mind. What starts as a slightly neurotic attempt at showing "just how far she's come" turns into a reckoning. We learn about the bad blood between Maylee and Jospehine through various reflections and I was completely on her side. Detwiller clearly hit the mark because I had no love for Josephine and felt just as worried as Maylee is for her twin brother Mitch as gets involved with Josephine
I enjoyed how the story unfolds as Josephine's past transgressions show a pattern with Maylee that would be hard to forgive. It makes sense that Maylee remains suspicious of her intentions with Mitch. It feels very much like maybe it's just another way to get at Maylee and I could actually feel my stomach drop when she reveals the big one. But the story isn't just about Jospehine. Maylee is clearly at at a point where she needs to make her own way and learn to trust again. She gets that chance and for the most part handles it beautifully and moves towards her own happiness.
Who We Were is a heartfelt read about the importance of learning how to move on. The story is a quick read that flows well and is one I recommend.
* I was gifted a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review*
Who We Were is a highly enjoyable read on many fronts; it's funny and yet it really tugs at the heartstrings. Maylee has an old score to settle, but fate has other things in mind. What starts as a slightly neurotic attempt at showing "just how far she's come" turns into a reckoning. We learn about the bad blood between Maylee and Jospehine through various reflections and I was completely on her side. Detwiller clearly hit the mark because I had no love for Josephine and felt just as worried as Maylee is for her twin brother Mitch as gets involved with Josephine
I enjoyed how the story unfolds as Josephine's past transgressions show a pattern with Maylee that would be hard to forgive. It makes sense that Maylee remains suspicious of her intentions with Mitch. It feels very much like maybe it's just another way to get at Maylee and I could actually feel my stomach drop when she reveals the big one. But the story isn't just about Jospehine. Maylee is clearly at at a point where she needs to make her own way and learn to trust again. She gets that chance and for the most part handles it beautifully and moves towards her own happiness.
Who We Were is a heartfelt read about the importance of learning how to move on. The story is a quick read that flows well and is one I recommend.
* I was gifted a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review*
February 25, 2017
I'm gonna start out by being honest, I wasn't exactly sold on this book at first but I took a chance and ended up falling in love with it. This book teaches us to let go of past and all the stupid petty things that happened in high school. To look deep inside and change the way you see life and others around you. To let your pride down and let the hate go.
I absolutely adored Maylee. She is someone I could see me hanging out with in school. She got burned badly and held a horrible secret. Instead of moving forward, she was still holding onto the past and all the hurt she felt. It took the amazing words of Benson to make her see things differently. She was determined to take the blinders off her brother but in reality she didn't need to. I will admit, I didn't like Josephine very much in the beginning but like Maylee, I found myself liking her and crying at the wedding. I loved Shauni, she's loyal, vindictive and has no filter at all. She's the perfect friend for Maylee. The only thing I found off was Mitch and Maylee are twins but they didn't seem very much in sync. I mean they loved each other, that was clear but I just wasn't feeling their closeness. Anyway, this was a sweet romance with many laugh out loud moments along some moments that will make you either cry or swoon. It doesn't have the hot sex scenes like most books do but I don't think it was needed in it. I seriously loved this book and it taught me a lesson as well.
I absolutely adored Maylee. She is someone I could see me hanging out with in school. She got burned badly and held a horrible secret. Instead of moving forward, she was still holding onto the past and all the hurt she felt. It took the amazing words of Benson to make her see things differently. She was determined to take the blinders off her brother but in reality she didn't need to. I will admit, I didn't like Josephine very much in the beginning but like Maylee, I found myself liking her and crying at the wedding. I loved Shauni, she's loyal, vindictive and has no filter at all. She's the perfect friend for Maylee. The only thing I found off was Mitch and Maylee are twins but they didn't seem very much in sync. I mean they loved each other, that was clear but I just wasn't feeling their closeness. Anyway, this was a sweet romance with many laugh out loud moments along some moments that will make you either cry or swoon. It doesn't have the hot sex scenes like most books do but I don't think it was needed in it. I seriously loved this book and it taught me a lesson as well.
January 7, 2017
This book was absolutely brilliant. It was like a modern day Romy and Michelle meets Mean Girls meets Bridesmaids. Full of humor and life. I loved the heroine, Maylee, so much! She's witty and sarcastic, she's kind of my spirit animal. Benson is nerdy and charming. It's just so much fun. Hands down my favorite book Lindsey has written so far! A must read for sure!
February 7, 2017
Maylee is the lovable nerd, and often the recipient of high school bullying at the hands of her nemesis, Josephine. When Maylee’s ten year high school reunion comes around, she manages to convince her twin brother Mitch to attend with her, just so she can see how Josephine has fared in the past ten years. But when Mitch and Josephine fall for each other, Maylee and Mitch’s relationship is put to the test.
The reunion isn’t a total loss; she manages to run into Benson (literally), an outsider from their high school days. To say that he has changed in the past decade would be an understatement. The nerdy guy who lived on the fringes is now a hottie, and he’s had his eye on Maylee for a long time. Will Benson be the one to help her through this troubling time with her brother?
Who We Were is a sweet, funny rom-com that makes for a quick escape from reality. Maylee and Benson were so easy to fall in love with, they were so real and their affection seemed to come from a very genuine place, true kindred spirits. I’m a huge fan of this type of romance, a sort of hybrid of the friends to lovers and second chance romance tropes. The story is not even fade to black, it is very rated PG, so for those looking for a good old-fashioned contemporary romance, look no further.
My biggest knock on the story though comes from the “why?” I’m trying to remain spoiler-free so I will just say that there is one overwhelming part of the plot that felt somewhat swept under the rug. There is indeed a happily ever after, but it was just missing “something”. The book is told exclusively through Maylee’s point of view, so I would have hoped she would have had just a bit more resolution.
All in all, this was a fun book and I highly suggest it. It would make for a bright spot on an otherwise dark day (something I know I’ve needed lately!). Detwiler is a new author to me, and I will definitely check out her other work!
I was provided an advanced copy of this book for review purposes.
The reunion isn’t a total loss; she manages to run into Benson (literally), an outsider from their high school days. To say that he has changed in the past decade would be an understatement. The nerdy guy who lived on the fringes is now a hottie, and he’s had his eye on Maylee for a long time. Will Benson be the one to help her through this troubling time with her brother?
Who We Were is a sweet, funny rom-com that makes for a quick escape from reality. Maylee and Benson were so easy to fall in love with, they were so real and their affection seemed to come from a very genuine place, true kindred spirits. I’m a huge fan of this type of romance, a sort of hybrid of the friends to lovers and second chance romance tropes. The story is not even fade to black, it is very rated PG, so for those looking for a good old-fashioned contemporary romance, look no further.
My biggest knock on the story though comes from the “why?” I’m trying to remain spoiler-free so I will just say that there is one overwhelming part of the plot that felt somewhat swept under the rug. There is indeed a happily ever after, but it was just missing “something”. The book is told exclusively through Maylee’s point of view, so I would have hoped she would have had just a bit more resolution.
All in all, this was a fun book and I highly suggest it. It would make for a bright spot on an otherwise dark day (something I know I’ve needed lately!). Detwiler is a new author to me, and I will definitely check out her other work!
I was provided an advanced copy of this book for review purposes.
February 17, 2017
Favorite Quotes:
I’m not a nun. Although I’m a bit mousy, I’m not totally repulsive, at least from what I’ve been told. However, for some reason, whether it’s my somewhat rampant sarcasm, my thick brown glasses, or maybe just karma, I seem to repel men. The good ones at least.
Josephine saunters over, her hips swaying a bit. I can’t help but notice all the guys pause to glance. She shoots them all a come-hither look. If I did it, they’d probably just think I was having a seizure.
You two are going to make the nerdiest little glasses-wearing babies someday… I’m already getting visions of these little nerd children running around using words like corpuscular.
The other bridesmaids squeal with delight. I’m pretty sure at this point they’re actually Stepford wives.
My Review:
I giggle-snorted, smirked, and barked aloud while reading this sparklingly entertaining and insightful tale. Lindsay Detwiler was a recent find for me but I want to zealously rave about her divinely gifted word craft to anyone who will listen. I adored every single thing about this book from beginning to end - the premise, humor, characters, storyline, and writing style. Every word. It was sublime and smartly written with clever humor and witty observations, as well as insightful, emotive, engaging, and excellently paced. This gal is definitely fangirl worthy! I have added her entire listing to my TBR and want to throw myself at her feet in adoration. Please keep writing, Ms. Detwiler. I must have more!
I’m not a nun. Although I’m a bit mousy, I’m not totally repulsive, at least from what I’ve been told. However, for some reason, whether it’s my somewhat rampant sarcasm, my thick brown glasses, or maybe just karma, I seem to repel men. The good ones at least.
Josephine saunters over, her hips swaying a bit. I can’t help but notice all the guys pause to glance. She shoots them all a come-hither look. If I did it, they’d probably just think I was having a seizure.
You two are going to make the nerdiest little glasses-wearing babies someday… I’m already getting visions of these little nerd children running around using words like corpuscular.
The other bridesmaids squeal with delight. I’m pretty sure at this point they’re actually Stepford wives.
My Review:
I giggle-snorted, smirked, and barked aloud while reading this sparklingly entertaining and insightful tale. Lindsay Detwiler was a recent find for me but I want to zealously rave about her divinely gifted word craft to anyone who will listen. I adored every single thing about this book from beginning to end - the premise, humor, characters, storyline, and writing style. Every word. It was sublime and smartly written with clever humor and witty observations, as well as insightful, emotive, engaging, and excellently paced. This gal is definitely fangirl worthy! I have added her entire listing to my TBR and want to throw myself at her feet in adoration. Please keep writing, Ms. Detwiler. I must have more!
February 6, 2017
*** I voluntarily reviewed this book, I gained no monetary incentives nor was I specifically requested to review the book, these are my honest ramblings and I hope you enjoy reading them - kat***
4.5 stars
This was a surprisingly refreshing story, maylee has a lot of hangups, and I got where she was coming from, seriously having had a shitty time at school, with myself having a biatch that made my life hell, so I was rooting for her in her quest to get the biatch queen Josephine out of her brothers life. The things Josephine did were unforgivable, I don't think I could have let it go, once I found out what she did.
But the author did a great job in showing how sometimes you have to let go of the past to move on with the future. Mylee's escapades had me laughing, her friend was the perfect partner in crime when they were out spying... there's lots of bits I could tell you about that made me laugh or cry. But I suggest that you discover them yourself by reading the book. I look forward to reading more from this
4.5 stars
This was a surprisingly refreshing story, maylee has a lot of hangups, and I got where she was coming from, seriously having had a shitty time at school, with myself having a biatch that made my life hell, so I was rooting for her in her quest to get the biatch queen Josephine out of her brothers life. The things Josephine did were unforgivable, I don't think I could have let it go, once I found out what she did.
But the author did a great job in showing how sometimes you have to let go of the past to move on with the future. Mylee's escapades had me laughing, her friend was the perfect partner in crime when they were out spying... there's lots of bits I could tell you about that made me laugh or cry. But I suggest that you discover them yourself by reading the book. I look forward to reading more from this
February 14, 2017
This is my first book by this author and I have to say I will definitely be looking for more of her work. She has such a way of writing these characters that they are seemed real and could run into them on the street at anytime. I loved Maylee, she had a lot of hang ups, but was also strong and able to overcome. I loved this whole book and I can't wait for more from this author.
February 6, 2017
I'd been anxiously awaiting this book! My 10-year high school reunion was last year and I knew this was going to be hilarious! It didn't disappoint. Dare I say it, my fave of Lindsay's work!
Lindsay is able to weave words together that have you laughing out loud and cringing at some of Maylee's mishaps. Poor girl! I one point I closed my eyes and went "No this can't be happening to her!" I did have to open my eyes to finish reading BUT that just shows you how Lindsay is able to make you feel like you are right there going through everything Maylee is.
What I loved most about this book though was the relatability. Maylee was probably many of us in high school. I know I saw some of myself in her. Thankfully she got her HEA.
I must say, the storyline was one of my favourites of Lindsay's, a little bit of sass looks good on you Lindsay :) You won't be disappointed with this read. Funny, romantic, and a little bit of angst all mixed into this lovely package!
Lindsay is able to weave words together that have you laughing out loud and cringing at some of Maylee's mishaps. Poor girl! I one point I closed my eyes and went "No this can't be happening to her!" I did have to open my eyes to finish reading BUT that just shows you how Lindsay is able to make you feel like you are right there going through everything Maylee is.
What I loved most about this book though was the relatability. Maylee was probably many of us in high school. I know I saw some of myself in her. Thankfully she got her HEA.
I must say, the storyline was one of my favourites of Lindsay's, a little bit of sass looks good on you Lindsay :) You won't be disappointed with this read. Funny, romantic, and a little bit of angst all mixed into this lovely package!
February 5, 2017
I have never had a class reunion. i guess our class was not that close, this but was hilarious at times. I didn't have a title in high school. i was not a cheerleader, or a jock, i was not a nerd or in the band, I just kind of hung out with every one. I knew a lot of folks who really enjoyed school. not me!! I love Lindsay style of writing ... it is very lighthearted, keeps even difficult or stressful moment not so deep. meaning like you can get over it, through it all. I think we all can relate to what happens in high school, relate-able. well done. I just love the character. cute cover. I found it to be a quick fast read. thanks, Lindsay! ( :
February 28, 2017
If there ever was a person who would never attend their high school reunion, well, that would be me. And apparently Maylee. I felt a kinship toward her immediately given that fact. In fact, I even have a girl I went to high school with that, if my brother hooked up with her (not that it's possible, but you know, hypothetically), I can't say that I would be that happy with it either.
That's where the similarities between me and Maylee stop. (Well, no, we have an affinity for Poe too.) But her story keeps on going, the story of learning to love again, accepting the cards she's been dealt, and rolling with them or standing up for herself to change them. It's a story of growing up. A story of continuous education--only this time navigating relationships with land mines scattered at her feet. And learning to leave the past where it belongs, in the past.
There were parts of this book that were downright hilarious, and other parts where I had to suspend disbelief a bit. Overall, though, this is true to Lindsay Detwiler books--you'll be uplifted. You'll laugh. You'll cry. You'll learn an important lesson. Cause sometimes we all just need to be schooled again.
That's where the similarities between me and Maylee stop. (Well, no, we have an affinity for Poe too.) But her story keeps on going, the story of learning to love again, accepting the cards she's been dealt, and rolling with them or standing up for herself to change them. It's a story of growing up. A story of continuous education--only this time navigating relationships with land mines scattered at her feet. And learning to leave the past where it belongs, in the past.
There were parts of this book that were downright hilarious, and other parts where I had to suspend disbelief a bit. Overall, though, this is true to Lindsay Detwiler books--you'll be uplifted. You'll laugh. You'll cry. You'll learn an important lesson. Cause sometimes we all just need to be schooled again.
November 3, 2017
Who We Were is about a 28 year old named Maylee and her twin brother Mitch going to their high school reunion. Shauni is Maylee's best friend.
Maylee and Mitch have the twin connection. They live together.
"Well sorry Mr. Hotshot. Not all of us were super popular."
When you were in high school, did you ever have someone that made fun of you, always took your dates or tortured you? Well in this book a girl named Josephine tortured Maylee.
They went to high school reunion. While there Maylee talks to Benson Drake who is a hot nerd in Maylee's eyes. Apparently Mitch and Josephine hit it off. Go figure the one person Maylee can't stand.
"More to life than work and impressing people."
In the beginning , throughout the story I couldn't stand Josephine but towards the end I started to like her.
I also liked how Benson didn't take sides and was there for Maylee.
"I've come to learn that who we were ins't who we are today. We're different now, life is different. We've changed and grown, passing through this complex thing called adulthood. Still, who we were helped lead us to this point, to this path, to this moment."
I'm going to say that the middle to end of the book was my favorite.
"Reconnecting with the past can change who you are.. or maybe just help you find your true self."
Plot-4/5
Characters-5/5
Writing Style- 5/5
Overall rating- 4/5
I was kindly given a copy in exchange for a fair and honest review.
Maylee and Mitch have the twin connection. They live together.
"Well sorry Mr. Hotshot. Not all of us were super popular."
When you were in high school, did you ever have someone that made fun of you, always took your dates or tortured you? Well in this book a girl named Josephine tortured Maylee.
They went to high school reunion. While there Maylee talks to Benson Drake who is a hot nerd in Maylee's eyes. Apparently Mitch and Josephine hit it off. Go figure the one person Maylee can't stand.
"More to life than work and impressing people."
In the beginning , throughout the story I couldn't stand Josephine but towards the end I started to like her.
I also liked how Benson didn't take sides and was there for Maylee.
"I've come to learn that who we were ins't who we are today. We're different now, life is different. We've changed and grown, passing through this complex thing called adulthood. Still, who we were helped lead us to this point, to this path, to this moment."
I'm going to say that the middle to end of the book was my favorite.
"Reconnecting with the past can change who you are.. or maybe just help you find your true self."
Plot-4/5
Characters-5/5
Writing Style- 5/5
Overall rating- 4/5
I was kindly given a copy in exchange for a fair and honest review.
March 1, 2017
This novel will take you back to high school 10 years later at Maylee & her twin brother's high school reunion. The premise of the novel made me want to read it. As high school reunion's are a love/hate event this author nailed it with humor, horrors, lots of drama, & heartfelt moments. The heroine Maylene is witty, nerdy, sassy & sarcastic. Benson Drake is nerdy & charming & sexy. An entertaining novel with unexpected twists that is written with clever humor & witty observations. A sweet & fun read that you surely will enjoy. I volunteerly reviewed an advanced reading copy of this book.
February 25, 2017
Maylee is so likeable and relatable. She was the nerdy girl in high school and it seems much hasn't changed. However, she is determined to prove otherwise at her 10 year reunion. It's just that it isn't really going the way she planned.
Wardrobe malfunction
klutz maneuvers
rage issues
and down right depressing new romance
all sabotage Maylee's chance at proving she is more. More than the mousey girl abused by her previous friend. More than the over looked, bullied twin. Too bad the heinous witch from years past didn't notice...no her eyes were on Maylee's twin brother Mitch. The worst part he wasn't slapping her, tossing his drink at her, or calling her an evil troll slut! No Mitch was making googly eyes back!!!!
The reunion a bust....literally.
Her family on the verge of an alien takeover...clearly the only reason Mitch would humor a conversation with evil Barbie.
No prospects on the relationship front...unless creepazoid from the club counts- ugh, can't stop the shivers of revulsion.
It looks like Maylee peaked in high school and this is the downward spiral to Hell. Or is it?
A nerdy romance with lots of fun, a friend who would start a riot to back you up, and the drama from your number one enemy in a relationship with your brother...What more could you want? Other than the hairless cat, jeez Maylee, it was rhetorical!
Wardrobe malfunction
klutz maneuvers
rage issues
and down right depressing new romance
all sabotage Maylee's chance at proving she is more. More than the mousey girl abused by her previous friend. More than the over looked, bullied twin. Too bad the heinous witch from years past didn't notice...no her eyes were on Maylee's twin brother Mitch. The worst part he wasn't slapping her, tossing his drink at her, or calling her an evil troll slut! No Mitch was making googly eyes back!!!!
The reunion a bust....literally.
Her family on the verge of an alien takeover...clearly the only reason Mitch would humor a conversation with evil Barbie.
No prospects on the relationship front...unless creepazoid from the club counts- ugh, can't stop the shivers of revulsion.
It looks like Maylee peaked in high school and this is the downward spiral to Hell. Or is it?
A nerdy romance with lots of fun, a friend who would start a riot to back you up, and the drama from your number one enemy in a relationship with your brother...What more could you want? Other than the hairless cat, jeez Maylee, it was rhetorical!
February 25, 2017
Lindsay Detwiler has completely captured the feeling of returning to high school for your reunion with the same characters we all grew up with. The popular girl, Josephine, that took delight in tormenting Maylee is still prepared to make her life miserable by falling for Maylee’s brother. The nerdy boy, Benson, has grown into a sexy, dream guy and Maylee is quick to notice. I never attended any of my high school reunions but I would have if they were nearly as fun as Maylee’s was. This book really kept me laughing throughout while wondering what could possibly happen next. This was a sweet and amusing tale that reminds us that we should never let others define who we are inside. The story was light hearted and a genuinely good romance.
February 25, 2017
This book is a must read. I could not put it down till the end. This book tells how it is in high school and later. This could happen to many people. Lindsay did a great job on this book. Keep up the good work Lindsay.
March 20, 2017
Original review can be found at: http://www.nerdprobs.com/books/book-r...
**A copy of this book was provided by the publisher in exchange for an honest review.**
Confession: Once again, I did not read what this book was about when asked to read it. I immediately said YES and cleared my reading schedule to accommodate the book. I was so excited. Lindsay Detwiler did not disappoint! True to form, she gave a book that spoke to all those nerdy girls from high school (which I am fairly certain I was one), gave hope to all those “mean girls” out there by convincing us people can change after high school. After all, we are all young, stupid and have no idea what will happen after we leave those four walls.
The book opens with Maylee getting around for her high school reunion. She is attempting, for what seems like the millionth time, to put her contact lens in. She finally gets it and does a happy dance around the bathroom. She does her make-up following the youtube videos that she watched to make her eyes looks smokey and gorgeous. Her twin brother, Mitch who she lives with, hollers for her to hurry up. She dashes to her bedroom and puts her wonder bra on that promises to make you go up at least two cup sizes. She squeezes herself into a tight, tight little black dress. Which she now realizes she tried on and bought without trying her wonder bra on with it. She squeezes, sucks, dances and finally gets that zipper up. She admires herself in the mirror. If she doesn’t take a deep breath she should be good. As she gazes at herself in the mirror she is determined to prove that she is not that mousy girl from high school with flat boobs and dorky glasses. Mitch and Maylee arrive at the reunion. Maylee immediately spots her arch-nemesis, Josephine. She made Maylee’s life a living hell in high school. From stealing her boyfriends to putting up embarrassing life size photos for the whole school to see. While trying to leave the reunion in a hurry Maylee trips over her feet putting a rip up her very tight dress from breast to navel showing everyone that she is wearing a wonder bra. She is rescued by an unlikely source, Benson. The geeky, nerdy guy in high school who is now very, very attractive. He drives her home, while Mitch stays at the reunion. One thing leads to another and Mitch begins a serious relationship with Josephine. Maylee is devastated. It’s just not the petty high school stuff that makes her despise Josephine, it goes much deeper. She must break up this relationship and reveal the secret. Will it ruin Mitch and Maylee’s twin bond? Will Maylee succeed in breaking them up?
I LOVED this book. I read it in 3.5 days. I could not put it down. It gave you everything. Elation when Maylee’s life finally falls into place. Sadness and tears when you find out more about her family. Embarrassment when Maylee and her best friend pull some crazy shenanigans. Shock when you finally find out what Josephine did to Maylee to make her resent her so much. This book spoke to me. I was that geeky kid in school. The one with the glasses hauling her books all over the place. I always had my nose stuffed in a book. I could relate to her so much. Our life might not turn out how we wanted it to in high school. But hopefully, when you take a step back, you realize your life turned out pretty amazing after all.
**A copy of this book was provided by the publisher in exchange for an honest review.**
Confession: Once again, I did not read what this book was about when asked to read it. I immediately said YES and cleared my reading schedule to accommodate the book. I was so excited. Lindsay Detwiler did not disappoint! True to form, she gave a book that spoke to all those nerdy girls from high school (which I am fairly certain I was one), gave hope to all those “mean girls” out there by convincing us people can change after high school. After all, we are all young, stupid and have no idea what will happen after we leave those four walls.
The book opens with Maylee getting around for her high school reunion. She is attempting, for what seems like the millionth time, to put her contact lens in. She finally gets it and does a happy dance around the bathroom. She does her make-up following the youtube videos that she watched to make her eyes looks smokey and gorgeous. Her twin brother, Mitch who she lives with, hollers for her to hurry up. She dashes to her bedroom and puts her wonder bra on that promises to make you go up at least two cup sizes. She squeezes herself into a tight, tight little black dress. Which she now realizes she tried on and bought without trying her wonder bra on with it. She squeezes, sucks, dances and finally gets that zipper up. She admires herself in the mirror. If she doesn’t take a deep breath she should be good. As she gazes at herself in the mirror she is determined to prove that she is not that mousy girl from high school with flat boobs and dorky glasses. Mitch and Maylee arrive at the reunion. Maylee immediately spots her arch-nemesis, Josephine. She made Maylee’s life a living hell in high school. From stealing her boyfriends to putting up embarrassing life size photos for the whole school to see. While trying to leave the reunion in a hurry Maylee trips over her feet putting a rip up her very tight dress from breast to navel showing everyone that she is wearing a wonder bra. She is rescued by an unlikely source, Benson. The geeky, nerdy guy in high school who is now very, very attractive. He drives her home, while Mitch stays at the reunion. One thing leads to another and Mitch begins a serious relationship with Josephine. Maylee is devastated. It’s just not the petty high school stuff that makes her despise Josephine, it goes much deeper. She must break up this relationship and reveal the secret. Will it ruin Mitch and Maylee’s twin bond? Will Maylee succeed in breaking them up?
I LOVED this book. I read it in 3.5 days. I could not put it down. It gave you everything. Elation when Maylee’s life finally falls into place. Sadness and tears when you find out more about her family. Embarrassment when Maylee and her best friend pull some crazy shenanigans. Shock when you finally find out what Josephine did to Maylee to make her resent her so much. This book spoke to me. I was that geeky kid in school. The one with the glasses hauling her books all over the place. I always had my nose stuffed in a book. I could relate to her so much. Our life might not turn out how we wanted it to in high school. But hopefully, when you take a step back, you realize your life turned out pretty amazing after all.
March 19, 2017
This book starts when Maylee Keagan is getting ready to go to her high school 10th year reunion. She’s getting ready to make an impression despite the fact that she hasn’t achieved any of her high school dreams. Once the perfect student, real life has kind of fallen short for Maylee and this is far from what she wants to portray, especially to her nemesis Josephine Crawford.
Instead of a successful husband, her date is her twin brother Mitch and instead of the perfect job, she’s working on a pale resemblance of her chosen path so when she falls on her face and experiences a wardrobe malfunction, all bets are off. To make it worse, her brother is openly flirting with Josephine and she ends up being helped by the least expected person, one she remembers as a shy boy who kept to himself, but is no longer that boy: Benson Drake.
This is my first read by Ms. Detwiler and it is a good book. I think the story and its message of moving on and letting go of the past are things that we all need to achieve in life, but I couldn’t love it as I wanted. I had a HUGE problem with Mitch’s loyalty to Maylee from the get go and no matter how things developed and resolved on the story, I couldn’t push past it.
There are a lot of things I could point out, but I can’t do it without writing any spoilers. As I’ve said, the book is good, the subject at hand is real and something most people go through in life though not in such a dramatic and extreme fashion, but it didn’t do it for me. Maybe I’d see things differently had I found myself in the same situation.
I know some people are going to think I didn’t understand the story or the ultimate message and I might even be judged by my opinion, but this book left me as the movie “Gone Girl”, no matter how many times I go around it, I can’t agree with their decision.
3 stars
*An ARC was provided in exchange for an honest review*
Instead of a successful husband, her date is her twin brother Mitch and instead of the perfect job, she’s working on a pale resemblance of her chosen path so when she falls on her face and experiences a wardrobe malfunction, all bets are off. To make it worse, her brother is openly flirting with Josephine and she ends up being helped by the least expected person, one she remembers as a shy boy who kept to himself, but is no longer that boy: Benson Drake.
This is my first read by Ms. Detwiler and it is a good book. I think the story and its message of moving on and letting go of the past are things that we all need to achieve in life, but I couldn’t love it as I wanted. I had a HUGE problem with Mitch’s loyalty to Maylee from the get go and no matter how things developed and resolved on the story, I couldn’t push past it.
There are a lot of things I could point out, but I can’t do it without writing any spoilers. As I’ve said, the book is good, the subject at hand is real and something most people go through in life though not in such a dramatic and extreme fashion, but it didn’t do it for me. Maybe I’d see things differently had I found myself in the same situation.
I know some people are going to think I didn’t understand the story or the ultimate message and I might even be judged by my opinion, but this book left me as the movie “Gone Girl”, no matter how many times I go around it, I can’t agree with their decision.
3 stars
*An ARC was provided in exchange for an honest review*
August 11, 2017
I think everyone had that one girl who they just couldn't get along with in high school, some were downright mean and others we just didn't click. Well Maylee and Josephine were "mortal enemies" and at the 10 year reunion they find some things just don't change. Some people don't change either, but the fact is Maylee's twin brother Mitch sees something new in Josephine, oil and water don't mix but Mitch tries to make it happen.
I could really relate with the characters in this story and I can definitely hold a grudge so I was really rooting for Maylee to win but what happens when winning might just make you lose your best friend? Is it really worth it, love, comedy, drama this book had it all and I will definitely be picking up more books from this author.
I could really relate with the characters in this story and I can definitely hold a grudge so I was really rooting for Maylee to win but what happens when winning might just make you lose your best friend? Is it really worth it, love, comedy, drama this book had it all and I will definitely be picking up more books from this author.
July 12, 2017
I'm a huge fan of Sophie Kinsella and this book is right up there with hers. It was funny, it was sweet, it was sad, and made me want to scratch Josephine's eyes sometimes. Great characters, great story. And even though my once-bullied self wanted a very different ending for Josephine, the story couldn't have ended any better. Bravo Mrs. Detwiler!
December 24, 2017
This one was okay. There wasn't anything technically wrong with it, I didn't think, but it was lacking a certain je ne sais quoi. I didn't much care about the characters either way and the story trended in a very obvious direction.
If you need something mindless, I'd recommend this. If you want something deeper, choose something else.
If you need something mindless, I'd recommend this. If you want something deeper, choose something else.
May 23, 2018
This story was not quite what I expected. It's not your typical rom-com, the characters are flawed, which makes them at the same time not-always-likeable but also that much more relatable.
It was funny, heartfelt, and while the ending was happy, I'm also pretty sure that Maylee is a better person than me... 3:-)
It was funny, heartfelt, and while the ending was happy, I'm also pretty sure that Maylee is a better person than me... 3:-)
December 5, 2017
Implausible. Anticlimactic ending.
February 22, 2018
Who We Were - PG13
Violence: none
Language: <150 including deity and <50 fbombs
Sex: yes, no details
I didn't like the ending at all. Not my favorite book, regardless of the adorable cover.
Violence: none
Language: <150 including deity and <50 fbombs
Sex: yes, no details
I didn't like the ending at all. Not my favorite book, regardless of the adorable cover.
May 7, 2018
Cute story
I loved that I hadn't read this romance plot yet, it was an original idea, at least to me. Fun, light read.
I loved that I hadn't read this romance plot yet, it was an original idea, at least to me. Fun, light read.
March 13, 2017
I was introduced to author, Lindsay Detwiler through this book. This story is about a set of twins, Maylee and Mitch and their journey to find true love. The ironic thing is that they both find it at their 10 year high school reunion. The only problem is that Mitch discovers love with his sister's high school nemesis, Josephine. Maylee discovers love with a nerdy classmate, Benson who is now quite the opposite. I truly enjoyed the journey Lindsay took me on throughout the story. The storyline is well written and the characters are so true to life. The book deals with past and present issues and their outcomes. You will find yourself on an emotional journey. I really enjoyed the book and would recommend reading it. I would rate it a 4 star read.
March 9, 2017
Originally reviewed for Chick Lit Central (www.chicklitcentral.com)
I’ve had the good fortune, or in some ways the misfortune, of attending two of my own high school reunions. There are definite highs and lows that can come from getting in touch with that teenage part of your psyche, the part you swore you’d never visit again because it’s the past. Yet, being there again, among old friends and potential foes, can make you feel as though you’re right there, that no time has passed from high school vs. now.
That’s what Maylee experiences when she goes back to her own ten year high school reunion in Lindsay Detwiler's latest novel, Who We Were. While she’s not entirely where she wants to be career-wise or on a personal level, she still wants to confront the past, particularly the one girl who made her four years a living hell. Her whole focus is showcasing how even though she’d been bullied, that it didn’t define her. Only, in doing so, she discovers that maybe it has, more than she could ever know.
Only in my worst nightmares could I conceive of my childhood enemy forging a relationship with my brother. That’s exactly what happens, and it seems as though time hasn’t changed everyone, especially not Josephine, who is still up to her old tricks and manipulative behavior. Maylee can’t help but wonder if her primary objective in dating Maylee’s brother is merely one of torture. And, she can’t fathom what anyone would see in Josephine, obvious beauty aside. The only saving grace from the reunion comes in the form of Benson, the boy from high school who seemed to see her even when she thought no one else noticed. And, he definitely notices her now, and she’s very aware of it.
Lindsay Detwiler has created characters you fall in love with, even the ones you love to hate, like Josephine. Written to true life, they all have layers, so even when you feel as though you’re rooting for the underdog, ultimately you discover that even those that appear to be the worst offenders are often the ones who need the most encouragement. In some ways this story reminded me of some of my own drama that surrounded my reunions, and while the last one I attended made me question whether I’ll attend the 30 year (it hurts to even say that number), chances are I will, because it’s nice to still have some sort of connection to that girl who at times felt like no one had really noticed her or cared, but in the end, someone did.
I’ve had the good fortune, or in some ways the misfortune, of attending two of my own high school reunions. There are definite highs and lows that can come from getting in touch with that teenage part of your psyche, the part you swore you’d never visit again because it’s the past. Yet, being there again, among old friends and potential foes, can make you feel as though you’re right there, that no time has passed from high school vs. now.
That’s what Maylee experiences when she goes back to her own ten year high school reunion in Lindsay Detwiler's latest novel, Who We Were. While she’s not entirely where she wants to be career-wise or on a personal level, she still wants to confront the past, particularly the one girl who made her four years a living hell. Her whole focus is showcasing how even though she’d been bullied, that it didn’t define her. Only, in doing so, she discovers that maybe it has, more than she could ever know.
Only in my worst nightmares could I conceive of my childhood enemy forging a relationship with my brother. That’s exactly what happens, and it seems as though time hasn’t changed everyone, especially not Josephine, who is still up to her old tricks and manipulative behavior. Maylee can’t help but wonder if her primary objective in dating Maylee’s brother is merely one of torture. And, she can’t fathom what anyone would see in Josephine, obvious beauty aside. The only saving grace from the reunion comes in the form of Benson, the boy from high school who seemed to see her even when she thought no one else noticed. And, he definitely notices her now, and she’s very aware of it.
Lindsay Detwiler has created characters you fall in love with, even the ones you love to hate, like Josephine. Written to true life, they all have layers, so even when you feel as though you’re rooting for the underdog, ultimately you discover that even those that appear to be the worst offenders are often the ones who need the most encouragement. In some ways this story reminded me of some of my own drama that surrounded my reunions, and while the last one I attended made me question whether I’ll attend the 30 year (it hurts to even say that number), chances are I will, because it’s nice to still have some sort of connection to that girl who at times felt like no one had really noticed her or cared, but in the end, someone did.
March 8, 2017
As someone who went to school with a 'Josephine' who made my life miserable, it was easy to connect with Maylee from the beginning. I couldn't get mad at her for the way she reacted throughout the story because I could see myself making the same decisions. This was a great story of lifelong friendships, second chances at love, and how some people can change even when others can't. I love everything about this book, the characters were well written and real, the story was captivating, and the ending was satisfying even though it made me cry...twice!
March 31, 2017
My review has been posted on Shelly's Book Corner
www.goodreads.com/review/show/1946496902
www.goodreads.com/review/show/1946496902
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