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Learning to Live
Never judge a book by its cover, and don’t let the white picket fence fool you. Although the appearance looks happy and inviting, no one would believe the nightmare that once lived within the lives of Nichole and her grandson, little Connor.
While healing from unimaginable abuse from her husband and adult son, Nichole is trying to figure out how to live again. After getting custody of her three-year-old grandson, she's learning that raising a child in her fifties as a single woman isn't all that easy.
When retired Army veteran Luke Tanner enters the bakery, Nichole isn’t just taken aback by his extreme good looks, but also by his charm, charisma, and heroism.
Can Nichole learn to trust a man again? Is she even capable of love and intimacy? Is Luke patient enough to give her the time and the space she needs? Or will her past ruin any chance of her future with him?
But when a ghost from her past appears from the dead, Nichole is faced with an unthinkable reality. She can do one of two things: stay and fight, or run and hide.
While healing from unimaginable abuse from her husband and adult son, Nichole is trying to figure out how to live again. After getting custody of her three-year-old grandson, she's learning that raising a child in her fifties as a single woman isn't all that easy.
When retired Army veteran Luke Tanner enters the bakery, Nichole isn’t just taken aback by his extreme good looks, but also by his charm, charisma, and heroism.
Can Nichole learn to trust a man again? Is she even capable of love and intimacy? Is Luke patient enough to give her the time and the space she needs? Or will her past ruin any chance of her future with him?
But when a ghost from her past appears from the dead, Nichole is faced with an unthinkable reality. She can do one of two things: stay and fight, or run and hide.
- GenresContemporary Romance
Unknown Binding
Published March 21, 2017
74 people are currently reading
102 people want to read
About the author
Brenda Kennedy
50 books376 followersBrenda Kennedy is an award winner, an Amazon, Barnes and Noble, and a Publishers Weekly bestselling author. She is a true believer of romance. Her stories are based on the relationships that define our lives - compassionate, emotionally gripping, and uplifting novels with true to life characters, that stay with her readers long after the last page is turned.
Her varied, not always pleasant background has given her the personal experience to take her readers on an emotional, sometimes heart wrenching, journey through her stories.
Brenda has been a struggling single mom, a survivor of domestic abuse, waitress, corrections officer, hostage negotiator and a corrections nurse. She is also a wife, mom, and grandmother. Even though her life was not always rainbows and butterflies, she is a survivor and believes her struggles have made her the person she is today.
Brenda is the author of the award winning book, Forever Country (The Rose Farm Trilogy Book 1). She has been dubbed "The Queen of Cliffhangers" by her adoring readers because books one and two always have a cliffhanger ending. In Brenda's own words, "I write series that end in cliffhangers, because I love them. I always give away the first book in each series so you have nothing to lose by reading it."
She was born and raised in Zanesville, Ohio and moved to SW Florida in 2006 with her husband Rex. They have a combined family, and she often jokes about not remembering what child belongs to who.
Her varied, not always pleasant background has given her the personal experience to take her readers on an emotional, sometimes heart wrenching, journey through her stories.
Brenda has been a struggling single mom, a survivor of domestic abuse, waitress, corrections officer, hostage negotiator and a corrections nurse. She is also a wife, mom, and grandmother. Even though her life was not always rainbows and butterflies, she is a survivor and believes her struggles have made her the person she is today.
Brenda is the author of the award winning book, Forever Country (The Rose Farm Trilogy Book 1). She has been dubbed "The Queen of Cliffhangers" by her adoring readers because books one and two always have a cliffhanger ending. In Brenda's own words, "I write series that end in cliffhangers, because I love them. I always give away the first book in each series so you have nothing to lose by reading it."
She was born and raised in Zanesville, Ohio and moved to SW Florida in 2006 with her husband Rex. They have a combined family, and she often jokes about not remembering what child belongs to who.
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Displaying 1 - 27 of 27 reviews
April 19, 2017
After all her ex husband and son have done to her Nichole is trying to find peace for her and her grandson. Being a battered and abused wife is hard mentally and physically but also being an abused mother is heartbreaking. Rasing her grandson Nicole is going to love little Connor with everything and nothing and no one will get in her way.
Does Nicole have time to open her heart to another man after all shes been through? At first she doesn't think so. But as time goes on Luke shows Nicole just how a woman is supposed to be treated and loved by a man.
Shes laid herself open scars and all and let him in to her and Little Connors life and is moving on with her life and is happy.
When she sees a glimpse of her past possibly coming back to take away everything she has. Nicole has no choice but to run. But Luke convinces her that with her family behind her 100% no one will get past him to hurt her ever again. So she stays and is determined to confront whatever problem is coming for her before it has a chance to do any damage.
I'm loving Nicole and Luke so far and cant wait to read the next book.
Does Nicole have time to open her heart to another man after all shes been through? At first she doesn't think so. But as time goes on Luke shows Nicole just how a woman is supposed to be treated and loved by a man.
Shes laid herself open scars and all and let him in to her and Little Connors life and is moving on with her life and is happy.
When she sees a glimpse of her past possibly coming back to take away everything she has. Nicole has no choice but to run. But Luke convinces her that with her family behind her 100% no one will get past him to hurt her ever again. So she stays and is determined to confront whatever problem is coming for her before it has a chance to do any damage.
I'm loving Nicole and Luke so far and cant wait to read the next book.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
April 15, 2018
I obtained this free e-book from Amazon and I am voluntarily writing a review. Nichole is a survivor of domestic violence of horrific and far reaching levels. She now is the owner of a bakery raising her grandson who is her reason for living. Luke is retired military with his own demons to haunt him. As neighbors living in a small town their paths cross and intertwine leading to friendship and more.
February 6, 2017
WOW... Nichole is one of the strongest women with a dark past I have read about it a long time. Nichole not only fights her demons in an every day battle but learns to overcome them. Luke is a War Hero with demons of his own but he believes only Nichole can make him feel like he has none. Their love for each other is heaven sent. Conner and Dale are a huge part of this love. Conner so young and free spirited and Dale the guard dog under a child's spell... What more could you want? Oh yes it gets better. And when you think you read it all...BAM! Game changer...
Brenda Kennedy is an amazingly talented write. She brings you into the lives of her characters with such finesse, you can't put the book down. Thank you Brenda for another stellar adventure. Cannot wait for Book 2.
Brenda Kennedy is an amazingly talented write. She brings you into the lives of her characters with such finesse, you can't put the book down. Thank you Brenda for another stellar adventure. Cannot wait for Book 2.
February 4, 2017
I have been reading Brenda Kennedy books for years and this is by far my favorite out of all of her series so far and I'm only one book in. This book spoke to me on so many different levels for a million different reasons. I love Nichole. I love that she was able to overcome so much and yet I was sad and heartbroken for her at the same time. I don't want to give spoilers because this is a MUST read. Ohhhh and can we talk about Luke? Holy hotness for this silver fox . And little Connor ❤️❤️. The cliffhanger in this book was a happy one and I can not wait to hear the back story behind it so hurry up lady!
March 21, 2017
I have been reading Brenda Kennedy books for years and this is by far my favorite out of all of her series so far and I'm only one book in. This book spoke to me on so many different levels for a million different reasons. I love Nichole. I love that she was able to overcome so much and yet I was sad and heartbroken for her at the same time. I don't want to give spoilers because this is a MUST read. Ohhhh and can we talk about Luke? Holy hotness for this silver fox . And little Connor ❤️❤️. The cliffhanger in this book was a happy one and I can not wait to hear the back story behind it so hurry up lady!
April 9, 2018
Another amazing book by Mrs. Kennedy! Nichole and Luke are so easy to fall in love with and by the end you will cheer them on as they try to navigate a relationship. I love the way that the trilogies by Brenda always have cliffhangers to end the first two book. I have to admit that the end of this book is something that I almost did not see coming. There were a couple times that I wondered if it could be possible but I still did not expect the ending to end up being what it was. I honestly thought we were going to have some baby mama drama so this end with who came back from the dead was a complete surprise to me. I recommend having tissues handy because there are a couple places where they come in handy. I love seeing some of the characters from the forgotten trilogy again in this book. It feels like we get to visit with some old friends. Each new set of books gets better and better. I have a feeling this may end up being my favorite set of books.
February 4, 2017
I have been reading Brenda Kennedy books for years and this is by far my favorite out of all of her series so far and I'm only one book in. This book spoke to me on so many different levels for a million different reasons. I love Nichole. I love that she was able to overcome so much and yet I was sad and heartbroken for her at the same time. I don't want to give spoilers because this is a MUST read. Ohhhh and can we talk about Luke? Holy hotness for this silver fox . And little Connor ❤️❤️. The cliffhanger in this book was a happy one and I can not wait to hear the back story behind it so hurry up lady!
February 5, 2017
I loved all of the twists and turns in this book. As with all of the books by this author, I felt every emotion I have. The characters are great and I feel like I know them personally now. The story was told with great detail. I am anxiously awaiting book 2 in this trilogy. I strongly recommend this book for eveyone looking for a great read. Every book by this author is better than her last. I am highly addicted to all of her books.
March 15, 2017
I was honored to be able to read this for an honest review. I literally could not put it down!! The main characters have had it harder than most in life, but they somehow find ways to move one. There are unexpected twists and turns and you will not be disappointed!! A definite MUST READ!!
February 9, 2017
As usual, Brenda Kennedy is the queen of cliff hangers. I loved every bit of it and can't wait for the next one! I'm counting down.
April 27, 2017
This is my first book by Brenda Kennedy and it was great. Nichole is an extremely strong woman to live through everything she did. On top of that she even takes in her young grandson. I'm happy that she met Luke and they could be together. He deserved it too after what he had been through himself. He's great for Nichole and Connor.
The ending was a nice touch. I was kind of hoping we would find out more on that end since things didn't quite add up with them. I look forward to reading more in this series.
The ending was a nice touch. I was kind of hoping we would find out more on that end since things didn't quite add up with them. I look forward to reading more in this series.
April 30, 2017
Great book!
This is my first book by this author and I have to say how much I loved it. So many things worked for me! I really enjoyed that everyone was not 20 years old! There is life and love stories after 40! Take a chance, this is a great book !
This is my first book by this author and I have to say how much I loved it. So many things worked for me! I really enjoyed that everyone was not 20 years old! There is life and love stories after 40! Take a chance, this is a great book !
April 4, 2017
Gripping
Fantastic book, domestic violence is on the increase and this book gives a very good insight to it and the devastating effects it has on families.
I think the ending is very clever because it hasn't ended but now I need to read the next book in the series.
Fantastic book, domestic violence is on the increase and this book gives a very good insight to it and the devastating effects it has on families.
I think the ending is very clever because it hasn't ended but now I need to read the next book in the series.
March 27, 2017
Does your heart race with anguish?
My heart was racing, tears were pouring from my eyes. I was full of rage and peace. I reread the first chapters because I didn't want the book to end. Getting to the middle was tough. It took all kinds of quick fast turns. When you thought you caught up and your heart settled down you get to the ending and you are gripping the edge of the cliff. She makes you feel every word. The turmoil you feel for the characters is real. Your angry one second and jubilant the next. You won't be disappointed. However you will wish the next book was available. She has a very quick turnout. I'm blessed to have found her and my new Street Talker's sisters. She is very generous to her fans, she holds contests and asks for our opinions. She has even named her characters of her books after her fans. Get yourself some coffee and hold on for dear life and read this book
My heart was racing, tears were pouring from my eyes. I was full of rage and peace. I reread the first chapters because I didn't want the book to end. Getting to the middle was tough. It took all kinds of quick fast turns. When you thought you caught up and your heart settled down you get to the ending and you are gripping the edge of the cliff. She makes you feel every word. The turmoil you feel for the characters is real. Your angry one second and jubilant the next. You won't be disappointed. However you will wish the next book was available. She has a very quick turnout. I'm blessed to have found her and my new Street Talker's sisters. She is very generous to her fans, she holds contests and asks for our opinions. She has even named her characters of her books after her fans. Get yourself some coffee and hold on for dear life and read this book
Want to read
March 30, 2020🎁 FREE on Amazon & on iBooks today (3/30/2020)! 🎁
March 25, 2017
What a great book!
I've been looking forward to this book and let me say it didn't disappoint. This is a series I would recommend, although a little shocked where the book ended, can't wait for the next one!
I've been looking forward to this book and let me say it didn't disappoint. This is a series I would recommend, although a little shocked where the book ended, can't wait for the next one!
March 17, 2017
I love this book one of many books to add to her great stories. I love the bond the characters have. I love a good book that makes you not want to put it down until you've finished it. Great book Brenda can't wait to read the next book!!!!
February 7, 2017
OMG!! Where do I even begin! If you have read Brenda's previous trilogy The Forgotten Trilogy then you were given a little insight to the torment that Nichole went through at the hands of her deceased ex-husband. Nichole is finally granted the adoption of her grandson and things are starting to look up for the both of them. Just as their life's seem to be returning to normal, will Nichole's past come back to haunt her from the grave or will she finally be able to live the life that she always dreamed of but never though possible to have? This book is filled with twist and turns, once you think you have finally started to figure everything out Brenda throws another curve ball in your direction. OH AND THE ENDING....SO DID NOT SEE THAT ONE COMING!!! Defiantly the Queen Of Cliffhangers!!! Thank you for continuing to let me BETA read for you for all these years!!! You are truly an amazing person and author!!!
May 3, 2017
Free Ebook
She's his grandmother and his mother. She was an abused wife and mother, her husband and son are dead but have left her with physical and emotional scars. He's an ex military guy who has PTSD but he falls for her big time but carefully
She's his grandmother and his mother. She was an abused wife and mother, her husband and son are dead but have left her with physical and emotional scars. He's an ex military guy who has PTSD but he falls for her big time but carefully
August 31, 2017
Decent book, story was good but I didn't think the actual writing was that great. It was an easy book to get sucked into and feel for the main characters. An easy read, though not light material...
February 4, 2017
This is the first book in the Learning trilogy. You never know what goes on in someone's life that can make them the person they are today, and not all wounds can be seen. Luke and Nichole both have pasts they wish they could forget, but it has made them who they are today. This book has everything you expect from Brenda Kennedy, including the infamous cliffhanger. What a fabulous start to this trilogy and I can't wait to read the rest!!
February 9, 2020
Emotionally Gripping
This book is emotionally Gripping.You have a wonderful woman who is a survivor of domestic abuse and very humble military man with PTSD and a lot more trouble.Come and let the author take you on an emotional heart-wrenching journey as we follow Luke,Nichole and little Connor with the rest of the friends you want ever forget even when you turn the last page.A Book You WANT EVER Forget.
This book is emotionally Gripping.You have a wonderful woman who is a survivor of domestic abuse and very humble military man with PTSD and a lot more trouble.Come and let the author take you on an emotional heart-wrenching journey as we follow Luke,Nichole and little Connor with the rest of the friends you want ever forget even when you turn the last page.A Book You WANT EVER Forget.
April 10, 2024
Worth your time!
Real life can be scary! I am glad I took the time and you will be too! At least it was for me!
Real life can be scary! I am glad I took the time and you will be too! At least it was for me!
March 24, 2017
This newest book by Brenda Kennedy follows the people we became friends with from her last series. I really love the way she connects the family's and continues the stories with different characters and another storyline. This newest series is about Nicole, an older lady, a grandmother even, who is learning to live her life and raise a grandson after a horrendous past. A brave wonderful person who is scarred inside and outside, but still has a purpose, and is still capable of finding love. This book is the first in a trilogy, so it does have a cliff hanger, and I wait anxiously for the next installment.. and Brenda never disappoints..
March 14, 2017
Amazing! Oh my, Brenda and her cliffhangers! Even though you know it's coming, you can't be prepared! The story itself has humor, sadness, tension, suspense and love! You literally feel so much with her books and this one is no exception! I am so in love with these characters ! And Luke is the perfect addition to this awesome group! I need more ! Hurry!!!
April 20, 2017
Learning to Live (The Learning Trilogy Book 1)
Brenda, Brenda, Brenda
She has done it again. Sucked me into a story and made me feel like I was there and living through everything with the characters in the book. Loved seeing some familiar na me a from past series.
I hate long book reviews that basically end up giving up the entire book. Not my style!
What I can say is this. I read this one in one sitting. I had to know more. I had to keep reading. The heart ache some of the characters went thru. You feel that hurt with them. A little boy in love with a dog. That is about as sweet as it gets for me. Of course this ends in a cliffhanger like all of Brenda Kennedy books do. This one, well, this one caught me off guard!! When I read the last page I actually said out loud (as I am sitting here all alone lol) whaaaatttt!!!! LOL
Can not wait to dive into book two!!! Thank you Brenda for sharing your talent with us. I am so glad I came across your books! You knocked this one out of the park my friend!!
Brenda, Brenda, Brenda
She has done it again. Sucked me into a story and made me feel like I was there and living through everything with the characters in the book. Loved seeing some familiar na me a from past series.
I hate long book reviews that basically end up giving up the entire book. Not my style!
What I can say is this. I read this one in one sitting. I had to know more. I had to keep reading. The heart ache some of the characters went thru. You feel that hurt with them. A little boy in love with a dog. That is about as sweet as it gets for me. Of course this ends in a cliffhanger like all of Brenda Kennedy books do. This one, well, this one caught me off guard!! When I read the last page I actually said out loud (as I am sitting here all alone lol) whaaaatttt!!!! LOL
Can not wait to dive into book two!!! Thank you Brenda for sharing your talent with us. I am so glad I came across your books! You knocked this one out of the park my friend!!
April 28, 2017
Loved it!
Lots of intrigue and sadness. Learning how to start over. Ta!k's about many different subjects.( PTSD, Domestic Violence, Adoption) Hated the way it ended, definitely a cliffhanger. Not totally surprised, suspected something along this line.
Lots of intrigue and sadness. Learning how to start over. Ta!k's about many different subjects.( PTSD, Domestic Violence, Adoption) Hated the way it ended, definitely a cliffhanger. Not totally surprised, suspected something along this line.
Displaying 1 - 27 of 27 reviews