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Miles Apart
Which mistakes are irredeemable? Would you fight to save a five-year relationship after your lover’s had a drunken one-night stand? Alex is torn by this question.
The past twelve months have seen her and her girlfriend Terri slowly drift apart, and the revelation of Terri’s betrayal shows her just how far apart they are. The longer they fight, the less she wants to try.
On a business trip to Canada, Alex meets Justine and, over the course of one evening, a connection is formed that shatters everything Alex thought she knew about herself. Returning to London, she’s faced with choices that will irrevocably change her life.
A lesbian romance that asks the interesting questions, not the easy ones.
The past twelve months have seen her and her girlfriend Terri slowly drift apart, and the revelation of Terri’s betrayal shows her just how far apart they are. The longer they fight, the less she wants to try.
On a business trip to Canada, Alex meets Justine and, over the course of one evening, a connection is formed that shatters everything Alex thought she knew about herself. Returning to London, she’s faced with choices that will irrevocably change her life.
A lesbian romance that asks the interesting questions, not the easy ones.
240 pages, Paperback
First published August 16, 2017
18 people are currently reading
192 people want to read
About the author
A.L. Brooks
23 books327 followersA.L. Brooks was born in the UK but currently resides in Frankfurt, Germany, and over the years she has lived in places as far afield as Aberdeen and Australia. She works 9–5 in corporate financial systems and her dream is to take early retirement. Like, tomorrow, please. She loves her gym membership, and is very grateful for it as she also loves dark chocolate. She enjoys drinking good wine and craft beer, trying out new recipes to cook, and learning German. Travelling around the world and reading lots and lots (and lots) of books are also things that fight for time with her writing. Yep, she really needs that early retirement.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 74 reviews
August 4, 2017
'Ylva-Publishing ARC provided in exchange for an unbiased review'
After overcoming this book from first page to the last,i had to take a few hours before i pen my review and quoting from many-"once a cheater always a cheater" but let me relay to the readers that this is not the actual overall premise of the book just a portion...that's where i had to have an open mind and continue looking for the 'real' meat of this story but i did not get it until about 60% of the book...The emotions in this story was really unbelievable and raw..very good friendships,even dramatic and had its interesting moments at times..too detailed oriented,explicit sex scenes,good supporting and some likable characters...had too many mix message in the story which the author should have omitted..I do think her relationship with Justine was much more authentic even though it was new because both had lots of chemistry,they connected instantly when they met,it felt genuine more than the five years with her ex-girlfriend(Terri) who was a selfish,sneaky with lots of issues to bare herself..but it was a nicely package lesbian love story that showcase so much more than just love and cheating spouses but all the ups and downs in relationships...recommend
After overcoming this book from first page to the last,i had to take a few hours before i pen my review and quoting from many-"once a cheater always a cheater" but let me relay to the readers that this is not the actual overall premise of the book just a portion...that's where i had to have an open mind and continue looking for the 'real' meat of this story but i did not get it until about 60% of the book...The emotions in this story was really unbelievable and raw..very good friendships,even dramatic and had its interesting moments at times..too detailed oriented,explicit sex scenes,good supporting and some likable characters...had too many mix message in the story which the author should have omitted..I do think her relationship with Justine was much more authentic even though it was new because both had lots of chemistry,they connected instantly when they met,it felt genuine more than the five years with her ex-girlfriend(Terri) who was a selfish,sneaky with lots of issues to bare herself..but it was a nicely package lesbian love story that showcase so much more than just love and cheating spouses but all the ups and downs in relationships...recommend
August 22, 2017
3 1/2 Stars. A pretty good read by Brooks. I think this is the second book I have read by her and have enjoyed both. Not the best romance I have read lately, but I enjoyed the read.
One of the major issues this book deals with is infidelity. In fact, there is a lot of infidelity going around. Cheating can be a pet peeve of mine if I don't feel it is done right. I know that is kind of vague. I guess what I mean is don't just put it in a book for some drama, let it have a purpose. Show that it is not something easily forgiven, that if couples stay together it takes hard work, those sorts of things. Without giving too much away, the cheating in this book happened different from most, and actually affected multiple characters. I think Brooks showed the pain of it, and overall it was done well. Actually in thinking back, it didn't really bother me at any point, so that is a good sign for me.
The actually romance of this book, is a very slow burn romance. The attraction is deep and takes place in an instant, but the journey is very long. To be honest, it was a little too long for me. As others have mentioned, the characters are in their head a lot. Thinking about things over and over again. It seemed like at least half, if not more, of the book the main characters are apart from each other. So all that is left is them thinking about the other. I was kind of jonesing for more action, less thinking. Let's just say the title of the book accurately fit the story.
I did like when the characters where actually together. I thought all of those scenes were pretty well done. And I do want to mention I had a smile on my face at the end of the book, which is always a good sign. For a book that had a lot of turmoil, the ending was uplifting.
I think most romance fans will enjoy this read. The book does slow down in parts, but if you can get passed that, the rest of the book is good.
An ARC was given to me by YLVA, for a honest review.
One of the major issues this book deals with is infidelity. In fact, there is a lot of infidelity going around. Cheating can be a pet peeve of mine if I don't feel it is done right. I know that is kind of vague. I guess what I mean is don't just put it in a book for some drama, let it have a purpose. Show that it is not something easily forgiven, that if couples stay together it takes hard work, those sorts of things. Without giving too much away, the cheating in this book happened different from most, and actually affected multiple characters. I think Brooks showed the pain of it, and overall it was done well. Actually in thinking back, it didn't really bother me at any point, so that is a good sign for me.
The actually romance of this book, is a very slow burn romance. The attraction is deep and takes place in an instant, but the journey is very long. To be honest, it was a little too long for me. As others have mentioned, the characters are in their head a lot. Thinking about things over and over again. It seemed like at least half, if not more, of the book the main characters are apart from each other. So all that is left is them thinking about the other. I was kind of jonesing for more action, less thinking. Let's just say the title of the book accurately fit the story.
I did like when the characters where actually together. I thought all of those scenes were pretty well done. And I do want to mention I had a smile on my face at the end of the book, which is always a good sign. For a book that had a lot of turmoil, the ending was uplifting.
I think most romance fans will enjoy this read. The book does slow down in parts, but if you can get passed that, the rest of the book is good.
An ARC was given to me by YLVA, for a honest review.
April 3, 2019
I thought my e-reader had gone bonkers when I started reading this. Who the devil are Justine and Anna and where were the supposed main characters Alex and Terri? I really should have read the entire blurb again but oh well.
Despite this book dealing with the horrendous subject of infidelity, I liked it, a lot. To be fair though I had trouble getting through certain parts of the book because of both Alex but mainly Terri's behavior. Seriously I hate Terri with a passion. How much? The needle pit from Saw II comes to mind, that's how much. (Made you cringe didn't I? 😉)
A large part of why I kept reading however was because of the (slow) progress both Alex & Justine were making. Their characters went through some fantastic personal growth despite their awful past relationships. I really liked how much stronger and confident Alex became in the end and how brave Justine turned out to be.
The book also does a great job of reminding readers that nothing is truly right or wrong or black or white. There are exceptions to every rule and that becomes glaringly obvious when Alex meets Justine. Both women have lots of emotional baggage that come into play but are luckily supported by some amazing friends and well fleshed out secondary characters.
This was a surprisingly good read with some great characters that have fantastic chemistry. It didn't stop me thinking cheaters are lower than pond scum however. Overall rating is 3,75*
Despite this book dealing with the horrendous subject of infidelity, I liked it, a lot. To be fair though I had trouble getting through certain parts of the book because of both Alex but mainly Terri's behavior. Seriously I hate Terri with a passion. How much? The needle pit from Saw II comes to mind, that's how much. (Made you cringe didn't I? 😉)
A large part of why I kept reading however was because of the (slow) progress both Alex & Justine were making. Their characters went through some fantastic personal growth despite their awful past relationships. I really liked how much stronger and confident Alex became in the end and how brave Justine turned out to be.
The book also does a great job of reminding readers that nothing is truly right or wrong or black or white. There are exceptions to every rule and that becomes glaringly obvious when Alex meets Justine. Both women have lots of emotional baggage that come into play but are luckily supported by some amazing friends and well fleshed out secondary characters.
This was a surprisingly good read with some great characters that have fantastic chemistry. It didn't stop me thinking cheaters are lower than pond scum however. Overall rating is 3,75*
June 16, 2024
Miles Apart is a dyke drama written by Maeve Binchy .....or it could have been. As I am partial to the long and winding journeys eloquently scribed by Great American and Irish novelists, Miles Apart gracefully lured me into the story from the first paragraph.
This is and is not a typical lesbian love story. The sex scenes are erotically written and the best I have personally read in a very long time. The characters are human enough to be someone you know and like. Undecided or just plain old confused on how they feel given the circumstances they are in.
Major questions are dissected from a variety of perspectives pertaining to how we treat and mistreat each other while we believe we are in love.
I applaud Ms Brooks for tackling the topic of faithfulness in a relationship. As well, a look at long distance relationship is artfully dissected.
I am adding this book to my must read again list. I highly recommend Miles Apart and anxiously await Ms Brooks next novel.
This is and is not a typical lesbian love story. The sex scenes are erotically written and the best I have personally read in a very long time. The characters are human enough to be someone you know and like. Undecided or just plain old confused on how they feel given the circumstances they are in.
Major questions are dissected from a variety of perspectives pertaining to how we treat and mistreat each other while we believe we are in love.
I applaud Ms Brooks for tackling the topic of faithfulness in a relationship. As well, a look at long distance relationship is artfully dissected.
I am adding this book to my must read again list. I highly recommend Miles Apart and anxiously await Ms Brooks next novel.
August 24, 2017
Infidelity good or bad? Well I guess whose view point you take. Are you the cheater or the cheated. Also, is it right to cheat on the cheater? Brooks tackles infidelity head on. What would you do if you found out your partner of five years has cheated on you? How far would you go to save your relationship? When do you admit defeat?
I have read a few of Brooks books and I have to admit I was slightly disappointed by this one. I gave it 3.5 stars because I felt we spent a lot of time reading what the characters were thinking. We seem to be in the characters head a lot. Very little is spent acting on those thoughts.
There is a real slow burning attraction going on. Kind of a little too slow at times. I found myself saying OMG just get on with it. If you can get passed the slowness it is not a bad romance.
It is really well written and I admit the ending does make you smile. Yes, I would recommend this book. It is a good read if you can get passed the slow bits.
*ARC provided by publisher via Ylva Publishing*
I have read a few of Brooks books and I have to admit I was slightly disappointed by this one. I gave it 3.5 stars because I felt we spent a lot of time reading what the characters were thinking. We seem to be in the characters head a lot. Very little is spent acting on those thoughts.
There is a real slow burning attraction going on. Kind of a little too slow at times. I found myself saying OMG just get on with it. If you can get passed the slowness it is not a bad romance.
It is really well written and I admit the ending does make you smile. Yes, I would recommend this book. It is a good read if you can get passed the slow bits.
*ARC provided by publisher via Ylva Publishing*
August 15, 2017
What do you do when you discover your partner has cheated on you? Do you storm out the door swearing never to trust another woman with your heart or do you seek out counselling hoping to find answers you so desperately need? Are you willing to settle for assurances from your partner that they will never cheat again? In Miles Apart, A.L. Brooks looks at the impact infidelity can have on future relationships along with the challenge of a long-distance romance.
Full marks for the sparks and emotional connection we see when Alex and Justine first meet. Two women who have had more success in their careers than in their personal lives still cannot resist the attraction both feel for one another. I liked that they each have strong friends to lean on when the inevitable misunderstandings force them to examine their own trust issues. Bonus points for the double meaning behind the title. Physical miles might separate our two leading ladies but it is their different approaches to dealing with past relationships which keep them apart emotionally. When they reconcile the latter, the former seems inconsequential.
A pleasure to read.
ARC received from publisher for an honest review.
Full marks for the sparks and emotional connection we see when Alex and Justine first meet. Two women who have had more success in their careers than in their personal lives still cannot resist the attraction both feel for one another. I liked that they each have strong friends to lean on when the inevitable misunderstandings force them to examine their own trust issues. Bonus points for the double meaning behind the title. Physical miles might separate our two leading ladies but it is their different approaches to dealing with past relationships which keep them apart emotionally. When they reconcile the latter, the former seems inconsequential.
A pleasure to read.
ARC received from publisher for an honest review.
December 4, 2022
4.5 stars (This review is for the audiobook version.)
How did I not know about this book before?! Though originally published in 2017, Ylva decided to produce it on audio this year or I may have missed it altogether! That would have been a shame.
Two professional women are brought together during a time both are recovering from the pain of their partners cheating. I really appreciated how Brooks navigated their story. It's not pretty, simple or black and white, but it felt refreshingly real and honest.
Main characters Alex and Justine are both so damn appealing that despite the great challenges the two of them face to overcome and make a life together, you can't help but root for them every step of the way!
The narration by Avery Reid was okay, though she struggled with the accents. But as the story progressed, I couldn't help but get more and more invested. She did capture their longing quite well.
I loved the story and will definitely be buying the ebook or paperback version because it's one of those that I think I might like even more via the written word. Brooks has written so many great books and I'm so happy to have discovered yet another of hers!
How did I not know about this book before?! Though originally published in 2017, Ylva decided to produce it on audio this year or I may have missed it altogether! That would have been a shame.
Two professional women are brought together during a time both are recovering from the pain of their partners cheating. I really appreciated how Brooks navigated their story. It's not pretty, simple or black and white, but it felt refreshingly real and honest.
Main characters Alex and Justine are both so damn appealing that despite the great challenges the two of them face to overcome and make a life together, you can't help but root for them every step of the way!
The narration by Avery Reid was okay, though she struggled with the accents. But as the story progressed, I couldn't help but get more and more invested. She did capture their longing quite well.
I loved the story and will definitely be buying the ebook or paperback version because it's one of those that I think I might like even more via the written word. Brooks has written so many great books and I'm so happy to have discovered yet another of hers!
August 7, 2017
Miles apart is a story about breakup, recovery and starting new relationships. Kudos to the author for tackling in a romance book issues such as promiscuity, infidelity and breakup. It's hard to emphasise with such flawed characters but it is a realistic approach to relationships that is often avoided in romances. The main characters are multilayered and believable. Ms. Brooks also introduces us to the hardships of long distance relationships. Having said that, the balance between show and tell is far from perfect, the story is full of paragraphs describing the characters' feelings that sometimes is a bit tedious to read. Miles apart is a departure from the feel good story that might be interesting for those romance readers looking for a different approach. However, if you are adverse to cheating and double standards, then this book might not be for you.
Overall, 3.5 stars rounded to 4.
ARC provided by the publisher in exchange for an honest review.
See my other reviews at www.lezreviewbooks.wordpress.com
Overall, 3.5 stars rounded to 4.
ARC provided by the publisher in exchange for an honest review.
See my other reviews at www.lezreviewbooks.wordpress.com
August 20, 2017
I'm between 3 and 4 on this one. Not for what you might think though. Yes the first half of the book really dealt with infidelity. Normally that in and of itself sours me, but in this case not so much. What I couldn't really get was that for the entirety of the book they're together for like 4 days. The rest is them stuck in their own heads for the most part. I was kinda bored to tears for the majority of the middle. And since it's such a long book, that took a minute to get through. The MC's when together have off the charts chemistry. No question about it and it's written *extremely* well. There is room for a book 2 here. At least in my mind. I don't think they're quite done telling their story to miss Brooks :)
August 29, 2017
Don't let the blurb for this book turn you away. I, like several others, was leery of this book due to the infidelity aspect. I typically do not enjoy books where someone cheats in a relationship. More-so when I am reading about their relationship because they are still together and miserable. It takes a solid story to overcome such an obstacle (at least for me), but Brooks was able to do so. Well written, and enjoyable characters made the book enjoyable. This is the second book I have read by the author and enjoyed both. I did like Dark Horse a bit more than Miles Apart but both are worth picking up. I did feel as though the ending was a bit abrupt, but overall a good read.
August 21, 2017
I have mixed feelings with this book. So, we have Alex and her partner who has cheated on her. But Alex doesn't want to give up on the relationship (in reality, she is afraid of what is going to happen with her because she is not that young anymore). And then, Justine, who lives across the ocean and has suffer been cheated on also. So they met, things happen and consecuently, Joseline does not trust Alex (kind of).
The thing is, the first half of the book is geting to know the characters, their circunstances and how our main characters met. Then is the 'let's deal with this situation' for Alex. And finally, they got together, but like in the end of the book.
I would have love that the part of the distant relationship was more developed. The book jump from 'let's give it a try and see if a get the job here', to the 'i'm here'. And that's it. I think that part of their relationship would have told us a lot about them. But i imagine the author didn't want to make the book too long.
Anyway, the book is good. Well written, well develope characters. I liked. For me, in between 3.5 and 4 stars (i giving 4 because i'm in good mood =)).
*An ARC was given to me from YLVA for a honest review.
The thing is, the first half of the book is geting to know the characters, their circunstances and how our main characters met. Then is the 'let's deal with this situation' for Alex. And finally, they got together, but like in the end of the book.
I would have love that the part of the distant relationship was more developed. The book jump from 'let's give it a try and see if a get the job here', to the 'i'm here'. And that's it. I think that part of their relationship would have told us a lot about them. But i imagine the author didn't want to make the book too long.
Anyway, the book is good. Well written, well develope characters. I liked. For me, in between 3.5 and 4 stars (i giving 4 because i'm in good mood =)).
*An ARC was given to me from YLVA for a honest review.
December 2, 2017
This was my third novel by A. L. Brooks and I loved all of them.
This is a beautiful story about bad break ups, recovery and especially new beginnings. It’s a realistic story about women in their midlife, where not always everything works how they wish. About women with some heavy baggage from previous relationships .
I loved both characters of Alex and Justine and also their supportive friends. Most I liked Alex, it was exciting to see how she was becoming more self-assured and how she dared to reaching for what she wanted.
Brooks was able to bring the feelings between the pages. I felt the immediate connections, when Alex and Justine met the first time. Despite that, for me cheating on your partner is an absolutely NO GO, I could understand that Justine was a big temptation for Alex.
It’s an emotional roller coaster ride for the women. Can they trust each other? If yes, how can they build a relationship with thousands of miles between them? Find out and read the book.
I give this story 4 stars.
Thanks to Ylva for receiving an ARC for a honest review.
This is a beautiful story about bad break ups, recovery and especially new beginnings. It’s a realistic story about women in their midlife, where not always everything works how they wish. About women with some heavy baggage from previous relationships .
I loved both characters of Alex and Justine and also their supportive friends. Most I liked Alex, it was exciting to see how she was becoming more self-assured and how she dared to reaching for what she wanted.
Brooks was able to bring the feelings between the pages. I felt the immediate connections, when Alex and Justine met the first time. Despite that, for me cheating on your partner is an absolutely NO GO, I could understand that Justine was a big temptation for Alex.
It’s an emotional roller coaster ride for the women. Can they trust each other? If yes, how can they build a relationship with thousands of miles between them? Find out and read the book.
I give this story 4 stars.
Thanks to Ylva for receiving an ARC for a honest review.
September 4, 2017
This is the second book I've read by Brooks, and I have to say, I really enjoyed it. I don't think I've yet to come across a book that is based on/around Infidelity, but holy shit, she did it well. All feelings between the 2 main characters, Alex and Justine, are broken down and dealt with... and the romance, even tho it took some getting too, was there.
November 11, 2020
Alex has been trying to make her relationship work after Terri, her girlfriend of five years admits to a drunken one-night stand with her boss. However some things are simply too hard to forget. On a business trip to Canada, she meets Justine and after one magical night, she starts to question everything she thought she knew about herself.
Cheating is the main theme of this book and I am slightly uncomfortable with that. To top it off, unfortunately there was no character in the book I liked enough for me to root for. Apart from a somewhat passionate night between Justine and Alex, there wasn't that big of a spark between them mostly because of the awkwardness after the realisation that Alex had a partner back home.
I was hoping the book could have been written in a way that would make it harder to guess if Alex would stay with Terri or leave to start something new with Justine. For that to happen, of course Terri would have to be less of a jerk. It would have been more interesting the way.
A 3.5 star rating if you ask me.
Cheating is the main theme of this book and I am slightly uncomfortable with that. To top it off, unfortunately there was no character in the book I liked enough for me to root for. Apart from a somewhat passionate night between Justine and Alex, there wasn't that big of a spark between them mostly because of the awkwardness after the realisation that Alex had a partner back home.
I was hoping the book could have been written in a way that would make it harder to guess if Alex would stay with Terri or leave to start something new with Justine. For that to happen, of course Terri would have to be less of a jerk. It would have been more interesting the way.
A 3.5 star rating if you ask me.
August 27, 2017
This is a well written romance, that centres on the impact of a cheating partner. The dilemma is what to do next.
I usually avoid cheater stories as its not usually a fun read, and in romances I want escapism. The cheating was well handled and did not distract from my enjoyment. Perhaps if the cheater put a bit more effort into repairing the relationship it might have added to the angst more and the choice whether to stay or go. In the end it was a fairly easy decision.
The title is quite apt, in that the 2 MCs spent must of it in separate countries. I did find the pacing flagged in the middle and found myself wanting them to get on with it. Perhaps not realistic as time was needed to sort their heads out and move on without baggage. I was not a fan of the narrative and being told what each other was thinking. But I have a preference for action and being shown how a story unfolds.
When the 2 MCs were together they sizzled, and the chemistry was good.
Overall an enjoyable story.
Arc received from Ylva for honest review.
I usually avoid cheater stories as its not usually a fun read, and in romances I want escapism. The cheating was well handled and did not distract from my enjoyment. Perhaps if the cheater put a bit more effort into repairing the relationship it might have added to the angst more and the choice whether to stay or go. In the end it was a fairly easy decision.
The title is quite apt, in that the 2 MCs spent must of it in separate countries. I did find the pacing flagged in the middle and found myself wanting them to get on with it. Perhaps not realistic as time was needed to sort their heads out and move on without baggage. I was not a fan of the narrative and being told what each other was thinking. But I have a preference for action and being shown how a story unfolds.
When the 2 MCs were together they sizzled, and the chemistry was good.
Overall an enjoyable story.
Arc received from Ylva for honest review.
August 25, 2017
Things are on the rocks between Alex and her girlfriend when Alex takes a business trip to Montreal and end up meeting Justine. Their connection is impossible to resist and it leaves both Justine and Alex questioning everything they once knew. Can their relationship or will it be over before it already began?
I'm really not a huge fan of reading books where cheating is involved, they make me squirm and I usually never finish reading them. However, I thought the author tackled this particular situation with grace and with grit and realism. Life isn't always pretty and easy and nice, sometimes its hard and you have to roll with the punches. I actually found myself rooting for the characters and their love story and I really really really enjoyed the book.
I loved that it was set in Montreal! I always love when a book is set in Canada. Gosh it makes my heart happy.
I loved also that these women were real women, maybe a little older than typical, real bodies and real hair and real messy lives. I loved all the characters in this book and I could find myself connecting and relating with bits and pieces of all of them. It was great!
Thanks for tackling a tough subject with wonderful skill and bringing us a beautiful romance across oceans and busy, messy lives.
I received an ARC from YLVA in exchange for an honest review.
I'm really not a huge fan of reading books where cheating is involved, they make me squirm and I usually never finish reading them. However, I thought the author tackled this particular situation with grace and with grit and realism. Life isn't always pretty and easy and nice, sometimes its hard and you have to roll with the punches. I actually found myself rooting for the characters and their love story and I really really really enjoyed the book.
I loved that it was set in Montreal! I always love when a book is set in Canada. Gosh it makes my heart happy.
I loved also that these women were real women, maybe a little older than typical, real bodies and real hair and real messy lives. I loved all the characters in this book and I could find myself connecting and relating with bits and pieces of all of them. It was great!
Thanks for tackling a tough subject with wonderful skill and bringing us a beautiful romance across oceans and busy, messy lives.
I received an ARC from YLVA in exchange for an honest review.
May 12, 2019
Pretty good read on the whole..Ya it has some cheating in it but I read books that have murder in them too so there you go...
August 13, 2017
There were aspects to this book that I really liked. It raises issues of cheating and forgiveness, and when to let go of a relationship that isn’t working. What does commitment mean in a real-world situation? Is sexual attraction enough to hold a relationship together? Obviously, no, but realistically it is often what new relationships are initially based on. How can you know the real person when you’ve only just met them and the sexual chemistry is strong? What does it mean if you discover they are cheating on their partner? Does the reason matter?
Miles Apart looks at these issues which means it’s too realistic to be a light romance story. Unfortunately, the issues are not very deeply examined and the story is not sufficiently well-developed to be a compelling, realistic drama, either. The book falls somewhere in the middle and as a result it doesn’t make a satisfying read.
This isn’t a bad book, it’s just not terribly good either. The denouement seems a little too pat, and I didn’t really feel the urgency of the protagonists’ need to be together. Overall, the book was ok but could have been better.
Note: I received a free copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
Miles Apart looks at these issues which means it’s too realistic to be a light romance story. Unfortunately, the issues are not very deeply examined and the story is not sufficiently well-developed to be a compelling, realistic drama, either. The book falls somewhere in the middle and as a result it doesn’t make a satisfying read.
This isn’t a bad book, it’s just not terribly good either. The denouement seems a little too pat, and I didn’t really feel the urgency of the protagonists’ need to be together. Overall, the book was ok but could have been better.
Note: I received a free copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
February 3, 2021
So good!!!
Alex is grateful for the chance to get away from the heightened home situation with her girlfriend Terri even if it is for work. Finding herself in Montreal, Alex meets Justine and they have an instant connection but while Alex is trying to enjoy life in the moment of relief, Justine is trying to recover from her own demons and trying not to engage in meaningless nights with women she meets. Alex and Justine’s time together in Montreal gives them lots to think about and helps them both to discover more about themselves and what they really want from a relationship, but will their meeting be the one to change both their lives.
I adored this story, it was controversial in a way yet sweet, romantic and just lovely in so many other ways. For the most part, I think this has to be one of the most realistic stories I have ever read. It was just typical of life and the lemons in likes to throw at you when you least expect them. Alex and Justine are both going through so much that is a direct result of someone else’s actions towards them. A. L. Brooks has picked that up and really run with it, which for me was so important because sometimes you just don’t realise how much someone or something has affected you and changed you, and sometimes they have no idea either and they don’t really care, which was quite clear for both Alex and Justine.
I loved their connection though. Both of them were in difficult places and upon meeting were not only trying to navigate those difficulties but also apply changes to try and better their situations. That is not only a lot to be dealing with but when both parties are on the same page for different reasons it just adds to the drama, miscommunications, and misunderstandings that drove Alex and Justine’s story and relationship. I just had to keep hoping for them because there was so much potential, but I completely related to the issues that were standing between them and causing the hesitance.
There was a lot of hope in this story but also a lot of reality, practicality and some friends for both characters providing the voice of reason and slowing them down, helping them to contemplate whether the decisions their heart’s wanted to make were for the right reasons. Most importantly, that support network around Justine and Alex was strong, sensible and again realistic. They weren’t getting carried away in fantasy but carefully weighing the odds, helping to look at the bigger picture, offer advice and friendly support, and assess those big decisions that were really going to change their friend’s lives.
Such an exciting story, with lots of lovely moments, some intense dramatic scenes, and most importantly those scenes you can just cuddle up with a blanket and allow yourself to feel a little sad with the characters and contemplative about your own life and what you might do in their shoes. A brilliant story that I highly recommend and absolutely love. I can’t wait to read it again!
Alex is grateful for the chance to get away from the heightened home situation with her girlfriend Terri even if it is for work. Finding herself in Montreal, Alex meets Justine and they have an instant connection but while Alex is trying to enjoy life in the moment of relief, Justine is trying to recover from her own demons and trying not to engage in meaningless nights with women she meets. Alex and Justine’s time together in Montreal gives them lots to think about and helps them both to discover more about themselves and what they really want from a relationship, but will their meeting be the one to change both their lives.
I adored this story, it was controversial in a way yet sweet, romantic and just lovely in so many other ways. For the most part, I think this has to be one of the most realistic stories I have ever read. It was just typical of life and the lemons in likes to throw at you when you least expect them. Alex and Justine are both going through so much that is a direct result of someone else’s actions towards them. A. L. Brooks has picked that up and really run with it, which for me was so important because sometimes you just don’t realise how much someone or something has affected you and changed you, and sometimes they have no idea either and they don’t really care, which was quite clear for both Alex and Justine.
I loved their connection though. Both of them were in difficult places and upon meeting were not only trying to navigate those difficulties but also apply changes to try and better their situations. That is not only a lot to be dealing with but when both parties are on the same page for different reasons it just adds to the drama, miscommunications, and misunderstandings that drove Alex and Justine’s story and relationship. I just had to keep hoping for them because there was so much potential, but I completely related to the issues that were standing between them and causing the hesitance.
There was a lot of hope in this story but also a lot of reality, practicality and some friends for both characters providing the voice of reason and slowing them down, helping them to contemplate whether the decisions their heart’s wanted to make were for the right reasons. Most importantly, that support network around Justine and Alex was strong, sensible and again realistic. They weren’t getting carried away in fantasy but carefully weighing the odds, helping to look at the bigger picture, offer advice and friendly support, and assess those big decisions that were really going to change their friend’s lives.
Such an exciting story, with lots of lovely moments, some intense dramatic scenes, and most importantly those scenes you can just cuddle up with a blanket and allow yourself to feel a little sad with the characters and contemplative about your own life and what you might do in their shoes. A brilliant story that I highly recommend and absolutely love. I can’t wait to read it again!
August 6, 2017
This is the third book of author A.L. Brooks that I have read, and I have tremendously enjoyed it!
The storyline is very credible and authentic. It tackles several tricky subjects such as ending (or not) a long-term relationship after someone is cheating, re-building a new life and whether or not to enter into a long-distance relationship.
The characters deal with all this in a believable and realistic way taking the reader on an emotional journey. Alex especially (she is one of the main characters) makes quite the development throughout the book. Justine’s journey is not as far-reaching as Alex’s, but is equally interesting.
I especially enjoyed, that all characters – main and side characters – are mature individuals who know what they want from life and that includes work, friends, love and relationships.
To me, it was refreshing to read a book where, even though it is a fictional romance novel, I can fully relate to the characters and what they are going through. The pacing works really well and, opposed to many other novels that I have read, the ending of the story is given enough space to develop and conclude the characters’ journey properly. I found Miles Apart easy, entertaining and at times serious to read and couldn’t put it down.
In fact, I am certain I will read this book more than just this one time!
For transparency purposes: I have been given an ARC to provide an honest review.
The storyline is very credible and authentic. It tackles several tricky subjects such as ending (or not) a long-term relationship after someone is cheating, re-building a new life and whether or not to enter into a long-distance relationship.
The characters deal with all this in a believable and realistic way taking the reader on an emotional journey. Alex especially (she is one of the main characters) makes quite the development throughout the book. Justine’s journey is not as far-reaching as Alex’s, but is equally interesting.
I especially enjoyed, that all characters – main and side characters – are mature individuals who know what they want from life and that includes work, friends, love and relationships.
To me, it was refreshing to read a book where, even though it is a fictional romance novel, I can fully relate to the characters and what they are going through. The pacing works really well and, opposed to many other novels that I have read, the ending of the story is given enough space to develop and conclude the characters’ journey properly. I found Miles Apart easy, entertaining and at times serious to read and couldn’t put it down.
In fact, I am certain I will read this book more than just this one time!
For transparency purposes: I have been given an ARC to provide an honest review.
September 28, 2017
*ARC provided by the publisher for an honest review*
This author has become one of my favourites because of her ability to create unique stories and this was definitely one of those. A.L. Brooks tends to like writing stories that don't seem like they could possibly have a happy ending but she always succeeds. That said, I did find this book to be a bit difficult to get through because of the extended discriptions of the main characters feelings which caused me to lose my train of thought quite often.
If you are looking for an unusual love story then you should give this book a read but just keep in mind that when I say unusual I just mean that it is so closely related to real life that it might be a bit uncomfortable at times.
The main characters in this book were quite realistic in their actions, which was one thing that I really enjoyed especially since his book deals with cheating which is quite a sensitive topic for many people.
*3.5 stars
This author has become one of my favourites because of her ability to create unique stories and this was definitely one of those. A.L. Brooks tends to like writing stories that don't seem like they could possibly have a happy ending but she always succeeds. That said, I did find this book to be a bit difficult to get through because of the extended discriptions of the main characters feelings which caused me to lose my train of thought quite often.
If you are looking for an unusual love story then you should give this book a read but just keep in mind that when I say unusual I just mean that it is so closely related to real life that it might be a bit uncomfortable at times.
The main characters in this book were quite realistic in their actions, which was one thing that I really enjoyed especially since his book deals with cheating which is quite a sensitive topic for many people.
*3.5 stars
August 17, 2017
This is the third book I've read by AL Brooks and my second favourite. I applaud her for tackling a topic many readers immediately dismiss a book because of the subject matter.
For me, the biggest message in this book was 'never say never' which one of the leading ladies discovered in the most heartbreaking way. I loved the inner reflection this evoked, not only in Alex but in myself.
The story is told in third person and alternating point-of-view, my absolute favourite style of narration as it allowed me to really get to know each leading lady.
To be honest, the first half of this story was hard to swallow, and while I'm not saying that's a bad thing, I definitely found myself more absorbed after the 50% mark.
The outcome was satisfying and I look forward to reading more books by this author.
Copy received via the publisher in exchange for an honest review.
For me, the biggest message in this book was 'never say never' which one of the leading ladies discovered in the most heartbreaking way. I loved the inner reflection this evoked, not only in Alex but in myself.
The story is told in third person and alternating point-of-view, my absolute favourite style of narration as it allowed me to really get to know each leading lady.
To be honest, the first half of this story was hard to swallow, and while I'm not saying that's a bad thing, I definitely found myself more absorbed after the 50% mark.
The outcome was satisfying and I look forward to reading more books by this author.
Copy received via the publisher in exchange for an honest review.
August 27, 2017
I received this ARC from ylva.
I really liked this story about this kind of things- cheating, life after that, because this story makes you think - what would I do in such a case.
This is my second book from the author and I find it very good. The characters are well written and the story is solid. Sometimes little slow, but it didn´t matter to me.
Alex is someone I could feel with - responsible and successful on the job, but insecure in private and try to give a second chance, because of the good things in the past.
Justine is the "fun"character of the story - always late and take things littel easier.
The end make it up for or slow going parts and to the end I just could put the book away.
I really liked this story about this kind of things- cheating, life after that, because this story makes you think - what would I do in such a case.
This is my second book from the author and I find it very good. The characters are well written and the story is solid. Sometimes little slow, but it didn´t matter to me.
Alex is someone I could feel with - responsible and successful on the job, but insecure in private and try to give a second chance, because of the good things in the past.
Justine is the "fun"character of the story - always late and take things littel easier.
The end make it up for or slow going parts and to the end I just could put the book away.
September 6, 2017
'Ylva-Publishing ARC provided in exchange for an unbiased review'
I liked the overall concept of the book and how it death with cheating. The story itself just didn't do it for me. I think it was around 60-70% where the book finally got some substance, before it was a lot of meaningless, detail oriented explaining. I also think that there were a lot of things that contradicted themselves. All in all it just didn't really work for me.
I liked the overall concept of the book and how it death with cheating. The story itself just didn't do it for me. I think it was around 60-70% where the book finally got some substance, before it was a lot of meaningless, detail oriented explaining. I also think that there were a lot of things that contradicted themselves. All in all it just didn't really work for me.
March 4, 2024
Some heavy themes contained within: infidelity, mid-life change, relationship change, personal development, to name a few. Selected due to career functional area in common with one of the Mains. Said Main should have recognized the need for and actioned signing the personal relationship disclosure form (aka Love Contract) common at a company such as hers.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 10, 2018
Miles Apart by A.L. Brooks.
Did you ever have your whole life planned ahead of you? In your forties, a nice home, a great person to share your life with, an amazing job…. But what happens when your other half breaks your heart with a drunken one-night stand? Can you forget what has been done and try to keep your five year long relationship alive? Or should you just let go and hope to find something better?
Miles Apart is a great book filled with a lot of questioning, misunderstandings, hope and regrets. The tale itself is a journey that I loved; it captivated me in multiple occasions, even if the main subject of the book is infidelity and its aftermaths while the main characters are rebuilding themselves and who they are, their confidence.
At first, we get to learn a little bit about Alex and Terri’s lives and relationship in London as it is barely holding on because of Terri’s affair. The writer did an amazing job in the scenes when Alex and Terri almost have intercourse. The line between what your body physically wants and what your heart cannot give is so perfectly written that the reader can feel the emptiness that the protagonist feels. The opposite feeling as well is perfectly relatable, when your heart and body connects with someone but your head gets the best of you and your feelings.
There is also Justine’s story, from Montreal, who has also been cheated on and her way of coping with what Nadia has done in a really different way than how Alex does. This book puts into perspective all the reactions possible if your lover find herself in someone else’s bed for a night and how rightly wrong it feels when two broken hearts find themselves.
I feel like there isn’t much I can say without spoiling too much since the book is unpredictable but I will say this, A.L. Brooks knows how to make the readers feel the chemistry between its main characters, it was so strong and well written that every words I read felt like a tangible pull between them.
It was also nice to see Montreal and its streets in the book. I had rarely read any books mentioning the area and it was a nice change.
The internal turmoil of Alex and Justine are really worth reading the book for. I also like the pace of the book, going slow at times while having many time jumps ahead to allow a lot more from the story. The line between what is and what should be expected from a relationship is being walked on, making the reader navigate through different emotions, some highly positive and others really tormenting.
I recommend this book to readers who love deeper stories and strong emotional rollercoaster.
Rainbow Moose’s Reviews
@RainbowMReviews
See more Reviews on https://rainbowmoosesreviews.wordpres...
Did you ever have your whole life planned ahead of you? In your forties, a nice home, a great person to share your life with, an amazing job…. But what happens when your other half breaks your heart with a drunken one-night stand? Can you forget what has been done and try to keep your five year long relationship alive? Or should you just let go and hope to find something better?
Miles Apart is a great book filled with a lot of questioning, misunderstandings, hope and regrets. The tale itself is a journey that I loved; it captivated me in multiple occasions, even if the main subject of the book is infidelity and its aftermaths while the main characters are rebuilding themselves and who they are, their confidence.
At first, we get to learn a little bit about Alex and Terri’s lives and relationship in London as it is barely holding on because of Terri’s affair. The writer did an amazing job in the scenes when Alex and Terri almost have intercourse. The line between what your body physically wants and what your heart cannot give is so perfectly written that the reader can feel the emptiness that the protagonist feels. The opposite feeling as well is perfectly relatable, when your heart and body connects with someone but your head gets the best of you and your feelings.
There is also Justine’s story, from Montreal, who has also been cheated on and her way of coping with what Nadia has done in a really different way than how Alex does. This book puts into perspective all the reactions possible if your lover find herself in someone else’s bed for a night and how rightly wrong it feels when two broken hearts find themselves.
I feel like there isn’t much I can say without spoiling too much since the book is unpredictable but I will say this, A.L. Brooks knows how to make the readers feel the chemistry between its main characters, it was so strong and well written that every words I read felt like a tangible pull between them.
It was also nice to see Montreal and its streets in the book. I had rarely read any books mentioning the area and it was a nice change.
The internal turmoil of Alex and Justine are really worth reading the book for. I also like the pace of the book, going slow at times while having many time jumps ahead to allow a lot more from the story. The line between what is and what should be expected from a relationship is being walked on, making the reader navigate through different emotions, some highly positive and others really tormenting.
I recommend this book to readers who love deeper stories and strong emotional rollercoaster.
Rainbow Moose’s Reviews
@RainbowMReviews
See more Reviews on https://rainbowmoosesreviews.wordpres...
August 16, 2017
This is an apt title. The characters are miles apart geographically and emotionally. Justine lives in Montreal while Alex resides in London. The first part of the book was rather slow as the author built up the introduction to the characters and the supporting cast. Alex’s partner cheated on her and they are struggling to keep their relationship together, even though Alex doesn’t seem to be able to get over it. I could relate to that since I had a cheating parent and I would have walked out on the partner immediately. Justine’s relationship ended traumatically and she’s indulging in one-night stands. Lots of angst right off. So we have cheating, casual sex (and there is a mention of safe sex late in the book), and a difficult long-distance relationship. Those are the problems both characters have to contend with.
Fortunately, the book got better after everything was introduced. Alex had to fly to Montreal for a week on business and met Justine on a double date with friends. They had an immediate attraction, but they tried not to act on it. Then they have a one-night stand themselves as Alex is guilt-ridden in the middle. Eventually they discover they work for the same company which means they have to stay in touch and work together.
Misunderstandings occur and seem to take over the book, plus they’re still in two countries for most of it. Eventually all is well. This was OK to read. It’s kind of a character study as much as it is a romance, maybe more focused on the character growth. Neither character is perfect and they both grow. That was good. I like A.L. Brooks, but this is not my favorite of hers. However, I look forward to her next book.
I was given an ARC by Ylva for an honest review.
Fortunately, the book got better after everything was introduced. Alex had to fly to Montreal for a week on business and met Justine on a double date with friends. They had an immediate attraction, but they tried not to act on it. Then they have a one-night stand themselves as Alex is guilt-ridden in the middle. Eventually they discover they work for the same company which means they have to stay in touch and work together.
Misunderstandings occur and seem to take over the book, plus they’re still in two countries for most of it. Eventually all is well. This was OK to read. It’s kind of a character study as much as it is a romance, maybe more focused on the character growth. Neither character is perfect and they both grow. That was good. I like A.L. Brooks, but this is not my favorite of hers. However, I look forward to her next book.
I was given an ARC by Ylva for an honest review.
August 8, 2017
First off I would like to thank AL Brooks for not falling into the same trap as Emma Donoghue's Landing which also features a transatlantic romance but ends with an insultingly stupid and predictable dummy twist.
Phew, ok, now that I've gotten that off my chest I should write about Miles Apart, as opposed to just going off on a general rant (potential topics today include; why are some authors so fucking obsessed with hair?)
Justine and Alex are both professional women in their 30s/40s who have invested significant time and effort into their careers and are doing very well, however, that success wasn't being replicated in their personal lives. Both their partners cheated on them and while Justine straight away packed up, moved out and moved on to a string of one night stands, Alex attempted to rebuild her relationship. All of this comes crashing down when Alex's boss chooses to send her from London to Montréal on a business trip and while there she meets the oh so charming local girl Justine.
As well as being a well written Lesfic romance this novel poses some interesting and thought provoking questions on the issue of infidelity. Does it automatically doom a relationship? If someone cheats on a partner to be with you, does that automatically mean they're predisposed to cheat on you with someone else? Is there ever any excuse for it?
Definitely worth your money and your time.
Phew, ok, now that I've gotten that off my chest I should write about Miles Apart, as opposed to just going off on a general rant (potential topics today include; why are some authors so fucking obsessed with hair?)
Justine and Alex are both professional women in their 30s/40s who have invested significant time and effort into their careers and are doing very well, however, that success wasn't being replicated in their personal lives. Both their partners cheated on them and while Justine straight away packed up, moved out and moved on to a string of one night stands, Alex attempted to rebuild her relationship. All of this comes crashing down when Alex's boss chooses to send her from London to Montréal on a business trip and while there she meets the oh so charming local girl Justine.
As well as being a well written Lesfic romance this novel poses some interesting and thought provoking questions on the issue of infidelity. Does it automatically doom a relationship? If someone cheats on a partner to be with you, does that automatically mean they're predisposed to cheat on you with someone else? Is there ever any excuse for it?
Definitely worth your money and your time.
July 2, 2020
So this book caught my eye. First of all, I noticed it is a book by AL Brooks...author of The Club. So of course it caught my eye. Then I read the plot...a tough subject matter. I marinated on it and decided to give it a go. Why? Because I like to challenge my comfort zone. I have to say, AL Brooks was really able to successfully write a love story within a taboo subject matter...infidelity. She did a magnificent job in connecting her audience with her characters. I went from yelling in my head while reading, “no, turn around. Don’t do this!” To a very sad “oh no.” To then wondering: how in the heck is Brooks going to get me to forgive the character who I thought I identified with...and fall for this being a romance that doesn’t feel contrived. Oh! Did I mention the two love interests live literally thousands of miles away from each other. What a challenge Brooks has set for herself. I have to say, Brooks really rises to the challenge. She took her time in setting the pace and tone so that at just the right time, I found myself coming around. Then liking where the romance was heading. The character development was strong, as I truly believe in “them” because Brooks does a stellar job showing how the women at the start of the book aren’t the same by the end. Hard to read but what a story of growth and love...brought out beautifully in this slow burn romance.
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