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Sweet Home Dixie #1
Mended
Mended is the first standalone book in the contemporary romance series, Sweet Home Dixie.
He is haunted by failure.
Plagued by guilt when his younger brother goes to prison, Wade is consumed by his
brother’s bleak future and his own personal demons.
There’s no room for love and happiness in his world. That is, until the beautiful widow
with sad eyes and a troubled teenage son moves to town.
If only her heart didn’t belong to her past
If only his past didn’t torment him.
One great love can transform their lives.
They need only to open their hearts.
Witty and heartfelt with just enough suspense and sizzle,
Mended is a story of hope amongst tragedy and the amazing ability of love to heal the
deepest of wounds.
She aches for what she lost.
Four years after her husband’s tragic and traumatic end, Ashley remains heartbroken
and yearning for the man who left her behind. Desperate for healing and to break her
teenage son’s newfound cycle of crime, she leaves the city for a small, sleepy town in
southern Alabama hoping for a fresh start. There, she finds Wade, the charming, ever
genuine contractor who’s more than she bargained for.
He is haunted by failure.
Plagued by guilt when his younger brother goes to prison, Wade is consumed by his
brother’s bleak future and his own personal demons.
There’s no room for love and happiness in his world. That is, until the beautiful widow
with sad eyes and a troubled teenage son moves to town.
If only her heart didn’t belong to her past
If only his past didn’t torment him.
One great love can transform their lives.
They need only to open their hearts.
Witty and heartfelt with just enough suspense and sizzle,
Mended is a story of hope amongst tragedy and the amazing ability of love to heal the
deepest of wounds.
- GenresRomance
349 pages, Paperback
Published December 8, 2016
62 people are currently reading
328 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 23 of 23 reviews
February 23, 2017
Mended is a lovely story about single mother Ashley Thomas and her son Emmett who got into trouble with the law. Ashley decided to move away from the City to small country town to start a new life. However, this is not what happen, Ashley and Emmett, met Wade Hudson who turned what Ashley was hoping a quite and peacefully life in a small town upside down. The readers of Mended would enjoy the way, Kayla Marie portrays the way a young boy who lost his way after the death of his father can change is attitude and behaviour when someone befriends him. Mended also highlights the way love can heal and bring two unlike characters together. I recommend this book.
December 13, 2016
A MUST BUY FOR ANY BOOK LOVERS COLLECTION!
I was super excited for this book's upcoming release and boy it was worth the wait. Totally exceeded all my expectations, it's an absolute cracker of a book.. A real heart warming story that will make you laugh, make you cry and draw you into the world of these characters lives, that makes you feel completely and utterly immersed in it : ) found this book hard to put down, so much so that I finished the entire book in just three sitting's it is a truly wonderful book. I can't wait until the next one is released from this Author as I am sure her next novel will be every bit as good as Mended!... : ) If you are thinking of buying this book please don't hesitate. Make family and friends happy this Christmas.... buy them a copy! they will love it!
I was super excited for this book's upcoming release and boy it was worth the wait. Totally exceeded all my expectations, it's an absolute cracker of a book.. A real heart warming story that will make you laugh, make you cry and draw you into the world of these characters lives, that makes you feel completely and utterly immersed in it : ) found this book hard to put down, so much so that I finished the entire book in just three sitting's it is a truly wonderful book. I can't wait until the next one is released from this Author as I am sure her next novel will be every bit as good as Mended!... : ) If you are thinking of buying this book please don't hesitate. Make family and friends happy this Christmas.... buy them a copy! they will love it!
December 20, 2016
Kayla Marie really pulls you in with her elaborate descriptive writing. Making it fun and easy to visualize the scenes and characters she creates. Mended kept me wanting more. I'm excited to read the next book in the Sweet Home Dixie series.
September 23, 2017
I thoroughly enjoyed reading this book and was drawn into the story and really felt for both mother and son. Great story about love overcoming human frailty and our inner strength and courage to face our problems. I eagerly await Kayla Marie's next book!
December 28, 2016
What a great book! Congratulations to Kayla Marie on her debut novel - you definitely have what it takes to follow your passion for writing. Mended is a well-crafted tale of heartbreak and joy, of dark paths and bright futures, with strong characters and a solid story.
This is much more than a "romance" - the plot is based in tragedy, but the very plausible story shows that there is hope in every shattered situation in life - and often times, great things can arise out of the shards. (Love the book cover image!)
Kayla Marie writes in her author's notes "I want to share the opportunity to get so immersed in a book that your problems and the hardships of your life seem to vanish as you're reading; that you become so connected to a character you can feel what they are going through; that you genuinely care about the outcome of a conflict in the story." Yes! Exactly! Thank you.
I agree with another reviewer; please do have a sharp-eyed grammarian review the book before printing the (hopeful!) 2nd edition to catch the typos - one of my pet peeves found in all sorts of books, self-published and not - especially the recurring its/it's mistakes. But it's ok :-D
Made me cry - a sign that I truly connected with the story. Looking forward to the 2nd story in this series.
This is much more than a "romance" - the plot is based in tragedy, but the very plausible story shows that there is hope in every shattered situation in life - and often times, great things can arise out of the shards. (Love the book cover image!)
Kayla Marie writes in her author's notes "I want to share the opportunity to get so immersed in a book that your problems and the hardships of your life seem to vanish as you're reading; that you become so connected to a character you can feel what they are going through; that you genuinely care about the outcome of a conflict in the story." Yes! Exactly! Thank you.
I agree with another reviewer; please do have a sharp-eyed grammarian review the book before printing the (hopeful!) 2nd edition to catch the typos - one of my pet peeves found in all sorts of books, self-published and not - especially the recurring its/it's mistakes. But it's ok :-D
Made me cry - a sign that I truly connected with the story. Looking forward to the 2nd story in this series.
July 1, 2017
Beautiful writing!
I don’t normally become engaged in a story so early on, but Kayla Marie’s Mended pulled me in on page one. Her beautiful writing brings each character and place to vivid clarity. The City of Mason, Alabama provides a stunning backdrop and is just as much a character in this story as the people in it. Kayla Marie has a sense of humor that shines in both narrative and witty dialogue, that I found amusing and heart-wrenchingly emotional. It is a perfect blend that hooked me and kept me turning the page.
Ashley and her 13-year-old son Emmett, arrive in Mason, Alabama to start fresh after struggling with adolescent rebellion. With Emmett on a path towards self-destruction, Ashley is desperate to get him back on track. Still grieving over the death of her husband Jeff (Emmett’s father), Ashley struggles as a single parent, always setting her needs aside to focus on her son. But when she meets local carpenter Wade – straightforward and unbelievably handsome – she sees a future with more possibilities than only helping Emmett.
The relationship between Ashley, Wade and Emmett is portrayed beautifully. All three of them feel real. They are relatable because they struggle with every-day issues: personal battles and the need to let go of the ghosts from their past. Kayla Marie puts a spotlight on challenges that many people face but are afraid to talk about. The journey these three take together demonstrates how strong love can be and when I finished reading, I was reminded of the serenity prayer which seems so fitting: Grant me the serenity to accept the things I cannot change, courage to change the things I can, and wisdom to know the difference.
Mended is rich with emotion: grief, frustration, anger, guilt, helplessness, healing, love, happiness and most of all, hope. I sighed in such a good way when I reached the end. A wonderful debut novel and very well done!
I don’t normally become engaged in a story so early on, but Kayla Marie’s Mended pulled me in on page one. Her beautiful writing brings each character and place to vivid clarity. The City of Mason, Alabama provides a stunning backdrop and is just as much a character in this story as the people in it. Kayla Marie has a sense of humor that shines in both narrative and witty dialogue, that I found amusing and heart-wrenchingly emotional. It is a perfect blend that hooked me and kept me turning the page.
Ashley and her 13-year-old son Emmett, arrive in Mason, Alabama to start fresh after struggling with adolescent rebellion. With Emmett on a path towards self-destruction, Ashley is desperate to get him back on track. Still grieving over the death of her husband Jeff (Emmett’s father), Ashley struggles as a single parent, always setting her needs aside to focus on her son. But when she meets local carpenter Wade – straightforward and unbelievably handsome – she sees a future with more possibilities than only helping Emmett.
The relationship between Ashley, Wade and Emmett is portrayed beautifully. All three of them feel real. They are relatable because they struggle with every-day issues: personal battles and the need to let go of the ghosts from their past. Kayla Marie puts a spotlight on challenges that many people face but are afraid to talk about. The journey these three take together demonstrates how strong love can be and when I finished reading, I was reminded of the serenity prayer which seems so fitting: Grant me the serenity to accept the things I cannot change, courage to change the things I can, and wisdom to know the difference.
Mended is rich with emotion: grief, frustration, anger, guilt, helplessness, healing, love, happiness and most of all, hope. I sighed in such a good way when I reached the end. A wonderful debut novel and very well done!
February 9, 2017
Ashley misses the sweet boy her son used to be--before the "incident." Now, "he was a 13-year old boy heading toward a life in prison if she didn't take drastic action." (5) What happened that changed him so suddenly? Perhaps the death of his father.
Now, Ashley is forced to leave the city life and move to the country side of Alabama, hoping to keep her son out of trouble and away from the criminal activities. After all, "country life had its benefits: fresh air, wide-open spaces, and less opportunity for hoodlum-induced trouble, all things that could do a boy like Emmett some good." (9) Still, that may not be enough.
Meanwhile, Wade is also struggling with guilt over his brother's incarceration.
Ashley and Wade both have the same goal: to knock some sense into their loved ones and save them from their pain, their anger, their life.
One day, Wade catches Emmett rummaging in his garage, and, suddenly, it's like he can see his brother's life all over again. He can see the young boy's bubbling anger and unwavering resentment toward his father. Instantly, the two boys sense a comfort around each other and realize they share the same emotional turmoil. The same goes for Ashley, who feels drawn to the husky, southern gentleman with a ravenous appetite and skilled hands.
I liked how Wade was able to be a strong role model for Emmett. That male bonding can really motivate and enlighten someone. The romantic aspect between Wade and Ashley was also heartwarming, especially when Ashley is still haunted by the final frightening moments of her husband's life. These characters showed great strength and compatibility, meandering through their inner qualms against the backdrop of luscious country scenery infused with the southern aromas of chicken-fried steak and home-style apple pie.
Warm, touching, and charming, this well-written novel captivates readers with its endearing characters and emotional plights. Mended is all about breaking and repairing; it's about getting lost and finding your way. Story is enriched with a delicious cornucopia of guilt, pain, and love-- powerful ingredients blended for the perfect combination of a sweet and savory tale. You'll want to eat it up!
Now, Ashley is forced to leave the city life and move to the country side of Alabama, hoping to keep her son out of trouble and away from the criminal activities. After all, "country life had its benefits: fresh air, wide-open spaces, and less opportunity for hoodlum-induced trouble, all things that could do a boy like Emmett some good." (9) Still, that may not be enough.
Meanwhile, Wade is also struggling with guilt over his brother's incarceration.
Ashley and Wade both have the same goal: to knock some sense into their loved ones and save them from their pain, their anger, their life.
One day, Wade catches Emmett rummaging in his garage, and, suddenly, it's like he can see his brother's life all over again. He can see the young boy's bubbling anger and unwavering resentment toward his father. Instantly, the two boys sense a comfort around each other and realize they share the same emotional turmoil. The same goes for Ashley, who feels drawn to the husky, southern gentleman with a ravenous appetite and skilled hands.
I liked how Wade was able to be a strong role model for Emmett. That male bonding can really motivate and enlighten someone. The romantic aspect between Wade and Ashley was also heartwarming, especially when Ashley is still haunted by the final frightening moments of her husband's life. These characters showed great strength and compatibility, meandering through their inner qualms against the backdrop of luscious country scenery infused with the southern aromas of chicken-fried steak and home-style apple pie.
Warm, touching, and charming, this well-written novel captivates readers with its endearing characters and emotional plights. Mended is all about breaking and repairing; it's about getting lost and finding your way. Story is enriched with a delicious cornucopia of guilt, pain, and love-- powerful ingredients blended for the perfect combination of a sweet and savory tale. You'll want to eat it up!
December 26, 2016
Kayla approached me out of the blue and asked if I'd read her book. Normally I have very little time for pleasurable reading, since, as a book editor, I read all day long anyway. But I had a break coming up so I agreed.
After reading a few chapters, I was very pleased to see there were none of the typical newer-writer errors that I frequently find---point of view head hopping, repeated words, redundancies, plot holes, descriptions that are either too sparse or overdone, etc. If you read a lot of books, you know what I mean. :) And the story was good, so I continued reading.
Kayla had given me the Amazon link for her book, but I didn't go there until after I finished, because I didn't want to be influenced by anyone else. I echo what the other reviewers said there in terms of the writing and the story: nice warm fuzzies, a little bit of heat, intriguing real-people characters, and a happy ending. It was everything that this type of romance book should be!
I deducted one star for a lack of proofreading, which did result in repeated style and grammar errors. But I didn't find anything as glaring as obvious misspellings and I think I only spotted one incorrect homophone.
Very good job, Miss Kayla! :) I predict romance readers will enjoy your book, as well as the rest of the books in this series (when written).
After reading a few chapters, I was very pleased to see there were none of the typical newer-writer errors that I frequently find---point of view head hopping, repeated words, redundancies, plot holes, descriptions that are either too sparse or overdone, etc. If you read a lot of books, you know what I mean. :) And the story was good, so I continued reading.
Kayla had given me the Amazon link for her book, but I didn't go there until after I finished, because I didn't want to be influenced by anyone else. I echo what the other reviewers said there in terms of the writing and the story: nice warm fuzzies, a little bit of heat, intriguing real-people characters, and a happy ending. It was everything that this type of romance book should be!
I deducted one star for a lack of proofreading, which did result in repeated style and grammar errors. But I didn't find anything as glaring as obvious misspellings and I think I only spotted one incorrect homophone.
Very good job, Miss Kayla! :) I predict romance readers will enjoy your book, as well as the rest of the books in this series (when written).
May 27, 2017
Mended is Kayla Marie's debut novel. And it's really good!
It's beautifully written. Very old fashioned love story, and I loved it!
Mended contains very important topics. Like PTSD, alcoholism, death, moving on, love, friendship, family and starting new.
I like the characters, they have heart and soul!
Reid, not my favorite person. But he redeemed himself at the end of the story. Really stepping up for his friend!
I'm excited for the continuing of Sweet Home Dixie series!
I thank the author for providing a copy to voluntarily review.
-Stina, Book Haven Book Blog.
It's beautifully written. Very old fashioned love story, and I loved it!
Mended contains very important topics. Like PTSD, alcoholism, death, moving on, love, friendship, family and starting new.
I like the characters, they have heart and soul!
Reid, not my favorite person. But he redeemed himself at the end of the story. Really stepping up for his friend!
I'm excited for the continuing of Sweet Home Dixie series!
I thank the author for providing a copy to voluntarily review.
-Stina, Book Haven Book Blog.
June 17, 2017
Mended: A Southern Romance by Kayla Marie
***Contains Spoilers***
First, let me start out by saying that I really enjoyed this book. There is a HEA so don’t let the serious topics turn you off from reading it. The characters and story was played out well and it would be a fantastic read for anyone who loves a little depth to their book choices. The author touches on serious issues including suicide, Post Traumatic Stress Disorder, addiction and depression. She was very thorough and informative regarding the diseases and issues discussed without being too depressing. The characters were also well developed and detailed. The reader will get a real feel for who they are and what they were feeling.
Ashley is a mother trying to change the future for her son, Emmett. Fighting desperately to understand what was happening to her husband, Ashley realizes too late that she alone would not have been enough to help him. After her husband tragically ended his life from a serious case of Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), Emmett started acting out and getting into trouble. Several years later and desperate for a change, Ashley packs up and moves to a small town where she hopes to encourage Emmett to start making right choices.
Emmett is a frustrated thirteen-year-old who was dealt a hard hand at life. He had two loving parents even if one was gone most of the time with the military. Emmitt noticed the change in his father but at a tender age, couldn’t really grasp the seriousness of the disease plaguing his father. One fateful night changed everything and Emmitt became angry with everything that had happened causing him to act out, hang with the wrong crowd and make bad choices.
Wade is struggling with trying to understand that he cannot take the weight of his family on his shoulders and learn to love while being able to let go. Wade’s father was never able to recover from his wife’s death and turned to alcoholism leaving teenage Wade to care for his much younger brother, Ford. Wade tried to raise Ford to the best of his abilities but life always gets in the way. After Ford is put in prison, Wade feels the pressure of believing that it was his fault and he is responsible for Ford and his choices.
Ashley, Emmitt, and Wade go through a series of events where they learn that only so much can be done for someone but ultimately, it’s their life and their choice to change if they want. This is also how they will learn to heal and move on with their lives. Healing and redemption comes from being able to love someone and still be able to let them go. I would recommend this book to everyone who wants a great book with depth.
***Contains Spoilers***
First, let me start out by saying that I really enjoyed this book. There is a HEA so don’t let the serious topics turn you off from reading it. The characters and story was played out well and it would be a fantastic read for anyone who loves a little depth to their book choices. The author touches on serious issues including suicide, Post Traumatic Stress Disorder, addiction and depression. She was very thorough and informative regarding the diseases and issues discussed without being too depressing. The characters were also well developed and detailed. The reader will get a real feel for who they are and what they were feeling.
Ashley is a mother trying to change the future for her son, Emmett. Fighting desperately to understand what was happening to her husband, Ashley realizes too late that she alone would not have been enough to help him. After her husband tragically ended his life from a serious case of Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), Emmett started acting out and getting into trouble. Several years later and desperate for a change, Ashley packs up and moves to a small town where she hopes to encourage Emmett to start making right choices.
Emmett is a frustrated thirteen-year-old who was dealt a hard hand at life. He had two loving parents even if one was gone most of the time with the military. Emmitt noticed the change in his father but at a tender age, couldn’t really grasp the seriousness of the disease plaguing his father. One fateful night changed everything and Emmitt became angry with everything that had happened causing him to act out, hang with the wrong crowd and make bad choices.
Wade is struggling with trying to understand that he cannot take the weight of his family on his shoulders and learn to love while being able to let go. Wade’s father was never able to recover from his wife’s death and turned to alcoholism leaving teenage Wade to care for his much younger brother, Ford. Wade tried to raise Ford to the best of his abilities but life always gets in the way. After Ford is put in prison, Wade feels the pressure of believing that it was his fault and he is responsible for Ford and his choices.
Ashley, Emmitt, and Wade go through a series of events where they learn that only so much can be done for someone but ultimately, it’s their life and their choice to change if they want. This is also how they will learn to heal and move on with their lives. Healing and redemption comes from being able to love someone and still be able to let them go. I would recommend this book to everyone who wants a great book with depth.
February 14, 2018
Southern Romance, indeed
I've read all types of romance novels, and this is one of the better ones. I really enjoyed how the author can the sweetness of the south into this grand romance. I felt like I was right there in the middle of the story, not just experiencing the characters, but also the Southern culture. From the language to the food, and the enticing romance, I really enjoyed this story. It has emotional highs and lows, and depth of plot and story. I will definitely read more of this author's work.
I've read all types of romance novels, and this is one of the better ones. I really enjoyed how the author can the sweetness of the south into this grand romance. I felt like I was right there in the middle of the story, not just experiencing the characters, but also the Southern culture. From the language to the food, and the enticing romance, I really enjoyed this story. It has emotional highs and lows, and depth of plot and story. I will definitely read more of this author's work.
July 9, 2018
I liked the concept but it was hard to connect to the couple. Even though it dealt with some deep issues, it never really made me “feel” any emotions...like the story telling was all in the same tone. I might try the second book to see if the Author’s writing style is easier to connect with as her talent grows.
July 28, 2018
Did not finish
There were so many Words! And not in a good way. I read a lot and this book had so many words-but said nothing. Maybe one of the slowest, dullest books I’ve come across in a long time. Pick something else.
There were so many Words! And not in a good way. I read a lot and this book had so many words-but said nothing. Maybe one of the slowest, dullest books I’ve come across in a long time. Pick something else.
July 20, 2021
Enjoyable and quick read
The story was entertaining and drew me in from the beginning. My only critique would be that football games and tropical storms don’t take place in the spring 😊I would highly recommend this novel.
The story was entertaining and drew me in from the beginning. My only critique would be that football games and tropical storms don’t take place in the spring 😊I would highly recommend this novel.
August 10, 2017
Loved this book! Can't wait till the next one comes out!!!
February 26, 2018
Sweet
I liked the real life struggles in the book. I didn’t like that the only Black character in the book was a stereotype.
I liked the real life struggles in the book. I didn’t like that the only Black character in the book was a stereotype.
March 15, 2017
I really enjoyed reading this book, it was a pleasant surprise. I'd never read anything from the author before, but the synopsis drew me in and the story was amazing.
Ashley has lost her husband and her son has turned into a teenager she no longer recognizes as her sweet and innocent child. Wade is also struggling with loss in the form of guilt over his brother's situation. I thought the author did a great job of showing how friendship and acceptance can play major roles in people's lives, no matter their situation.
This book takes you through the gamut of emotions, making you want to laugh and cry (and even scream when Ashley becomes neurotic about her son LOL), it's very easy to relate to the characters. The writing draws you in and makes you feel what is happening as though you're actually there. It’s perfectly written and designed to tug at your heart strings!
I would definitely recommend this book to others and look forward to being able to read more from the author.
**I received a free copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.**
Ashley has lost her husband and her son has turned into a teenager she no longer recognizes as her sweet and innocent child. Wade is also struggling with loss in the form of guilt over his brother's situation. I thought the author did a great job of showing how friendship and acceptance can play major roles in people's lives, no matter their situation.
This book takes you through the gamut of emotions, making you want to laugh and cry (and even scream when Ashley becomes neurotic about her son LOL), it's very easy to relate to the characters. The writing draws you in and makes you feel what is happening as though you're actually there. It’s perfectly written and designed to tug at your heart strings!
I would definitely recommend this book to others and look forward to being able to read more from the author.
**I received a free copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.**
September 16, 2017
A Review from Reader's Favorite: (Reviewed by Viga Boland for Readers' Favorite.)
When an author's first novel is as well-written as Kayla Marie's Mended, you can be sure she's going to develop a legion of fans just waiting for her next book. What a wonderful, engaging and touching story this is...and that coming from a reviewer who is not a fan of romantic fiction!
So what makes Mended a cut above most romances? It's the author's skill at bringing her characters to life so well that readers can see and feel everything they are experiencing, be it the rush of a new love, the heartache of past trauma, or the difficulties of dealing with current issues and people in their lives. In this case, readers meet Ashley, a widow of four years, and her troubled young son, Emmett, who have just moved into the small town of Mason, Alabama. Ashley has moved here in hopes of keeping Emmett on the straight and narrow after some stints in juvenile detention in the big city.
Enter into their lives, Wade...handsome, rugged and kindly but troubled by demons he doesn't want Ashley or Emmett to know about. It doesn't take long for Ashley and Wade to be fiercely drawn to each other, but both are too afraid to tell the other how they feel. Finally getting to what they both desire takes up most of the book, but in the meanwhile, Wade's entrance into Emmett's life is the best thing that could happen for that boy.
In Mended, Kayla Marie has crafted an excellent story, with realistic characters, life-like dialogue and beautiful descriptions. Emotions run deep and readers identify with the introspection of the two protagonists. Mended is romance, but it's a lot more: it's deep, rich with homey values, and raises issues readers may well be dealing with in their own lives. Well done, Kayla Marie. Now, how long before we get to read your next book?
When an author's first novel is as well-written as Kayla Marie's Mended, you can be sure she's going to develop a legion of fans just waiting for her next book. What a wonderful, engaging and touching story this is...and that coming from a reviewer who is not a fan of romantic fiction!
So what makes Mended a cut above most romances? It's the author's skill at bringing her characters to life so well that readers can see and feel everything they are experiencing, be it the rush of a new love, the heartache of past trauma, or the difficulties of dealing with current issues and people in their lives. In this case, readers meet Ashley, a widow of four years, and her troubled young son, Emmett, who have just moved into the small town of Mason, Alabama. Ashley has moved here in hopes of keeping Emmett on the straight and narrow after some stints in juvenile detention in the big city.
Enter into their lives, Wade...handsome, rugged and kindly but troubled by demons he doesn't want Ashley or Emmett to know about. It doesn't take long for Ashley and Wade to be fiercely drawn to each other, but both are too afraid to tell the other how they feel. Finally getting to what they both desire takes up most of the book, but in the meanwhile, Wade's entrance into Emmett's life is the best thing that could happen for that boy.
In Mended, Kayla Marie has crafted an excellent story, with realistic characters, life-like dialogue and beautiful descriptions. Emotions run deep and readers identify with the introspection of the two protagonists. Mended is romance, but it's a lot more: it's deep, rich with homey values, and raises issues readers may well be dealing with in their own lives. Well done, Kayla Marie. Now, how long before we get to read your next book?
February 10, 2017
Okay, so where do I start...First off I have to say that Kayla is amazing. You would not pick up this book and think that this was her first ever released novel. She truly does write like she is an old hand at this and I congratulate her on how well this book was written. The hardest thing about writing a review is not giving away any spoilers, so if I do... I'm sorry!
Ashley is a widow with a troubled teen who can't seem to stay out of trouble. To make a fresh start she up and leaves the city and moves to a cosy town to give them both a fresh start. I love Ashley, she is so relatable on so many levels. I admit I struggled at times with the actions of her son. But I don't have teenagers...yet so God help me and I pray I don't struggle with them like Ashley does in this book.
We meet Wade, the love interest very early on and hear from his POV. He is a perfect mixture of strength, masculinity, tenderness and hotness all rolled into one! I love him so much! The pair quickly form a bond and through out the book you are rooting for them and their HEA. What I love most about this book by Kayla is that she touches on points and brings home the very real truth about PTSD. It's heartbreaking at times and I cried for her and her son.
Congrats to her on her first book and I can't wait to read more from her in the future.
Ashley is a widow with a troubled teen who can't seem to stay out of trouble. To make a fresh start she up and leaves the city and moves to a cosy town to give them both a fresh start. I love Ashley, she is so relatable on so many levels. I admit I struggled at times with the actions of her son. But I don't have teenagers...yet so God help me and I pray I don't struggle with them like Ashley does in this book.
We meet Wade, the love interest very early on and hear from his POV. He is a perfect mixture of strength, masculinity, tenderness and hotness all rolled into one! I love him so much! The pair quickly form a bond and through out the book you are rooting for them and their HEA. What I love most about this book by Kayla is that she touches on points and brings home the very real truth about PTSD. It's heartbreaking at times and I cried for her and her son.
Congrats to her on her first book and I can't wait to read more from her in the future.
January 2, 2017
this review contains spoilers. mended was a light heartfelt novel for debut author Kayla Marie. it pulled me in from the first chapter. I felt like I was there with the characters in the story. I love how Ashley and Wade's love journey was like everyday life with struggles and hurdles instead of most romances of they meet, fall in love, get married in a week. I felt emotions reading the book. Wade's drinking problem for the week made me angry at him. I cried when Roy and Wade had a heartfelt conversation. they put the past behind and They said they love each other. I feel sorry for Reid with losing the girl he loved more than any other. I really enjoyed this book. everyone should give it a chance
March 30, 2017
Mended delivers everything a romance novel of its category promises. With a solid plot and a warm connection between characters, you’ll feel their struggles, worries, sacrifices, and even addictions.
The author, Kayla Marie, lands her debut novel a 5 star rating. You’ll be immediately entrenched in the battle between mother and son. The traumatized teen, Emmett, strikes out at the one that loves him most—the mother who would step in front of a bus for him. Every mom raising a child that’s faced an extreme internal and hostile struggle will instantly connect with this kid. His mother, Ashley, tries everything to reach him -- including bravely plunging their lives into a rural Alabama town -- hoping to keep him from continuing down the road of criminal behavior.
Enter Wade, the drool-worthy construction guy in the neighborhood that literally catches Emmett trying to steal from his garage. Surprisingly, Wade’s own failed attempt at raising a troubled younger brother hits his empathy button, making him see Emmett through a different lens. No spoilers here—you’re gonna have to read the book!
Bottom line: Some people can’t be “fixed”, no matter how much you pull your hair out trying as it’s ultimately up to them. Others, however, are simply broken...and it may just take that one, open-minded person to reach out and mend the train wreck before it plows through everyone in its path.
I look forward to exploring more depth in the supporting characters as the series continues.
The author, Kayla Marie, lands her debut novel a 5 star rating. You’ll be immediately entrenched in the battle between mother and son. The traumatized teen, Emmett, strikes out at the one that loves him most—the mother who would step in front of a bus for him. Every mom raising a child that’s faced an extreme internal and hostile struggle will instantly connect with this kid. His mother, Ashley, tries everything to reach him -- including bravely plunging their lives into a rural Alabama town -- hoping to keep him from continuing down the road of criminal behavior.
Enter Wade, the drool-worthy construction guy in the neighborhood that literally catches Emmett trying to steal from his garage. Surprisingly, Wade’s own failed attempt at raising a troubled younger brother hits his empathy button, making him see Emmett through a different lens. No spoilers here—you’re gonna have to read the book!
Bottom line: Some people can’t be “fixed”, no matter how much you pull your hair out trying as it’s ultimately up to them. Others, however, are simply broken...and it may just take that one, open-minded person to reach out and mend the train wreck before it plows through everyone in its path.
I look forward to exploring more depth in the supporting characters as the series continues.
April 8, 2017
Ashley has survived a nightmare. When the love of her life, her marine husband leaves the service and returns home, all Ashley can hope for it a happy life together. Unfortunately she didn't count on the deep, painful scars Jeff's time away would leave. After his death, their son Emmett flies of the rails and it seems no matter what she does, Emmett is headed down a dark path that could only lead him to spending time behind bars.
Wade is punishing himself. Blaming himself for his brother's actions which ended with him locked up and trying to look after an alcoholic father, his life isn't pretty. So when a pretty new vet nurse moves to town, Wade is convinced he doesn't deserve her while he fights his own demons.
This is a sweet book, which leads you to believe that pushing past your own fears, believing that you do deserve more from life than whatever you've been through and letting down your walls to let others in can help you.
Congratulations Kayla on your debut novel... can't wait to see where this journey takes us.
PS - I'd love to see more of Maggie and Robbie in upcoming books!
Wade is punishing himself. Blaming himself for his brother's actions which ended with him locked up and trying to look after an alcoholic father, his life isn't pretty. So when a pretty new vet nurse moves to town, Wade is convinced he doesn't deserve her while he fights his own demons.
This is a sweet book, which leads you to believe that pushing past your own fears, believing that you do deserve more from life than whatever you've been through and letting down your walls to let others in can help you.
Congratulations Kayla on your debut novel... can't wait to see where this journey takes us.
PS - I'd love to see more of Maggie and Robbie in upcoming books!
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